I was in tears, before the moment arrived.  People were wanting to serve my family.  What did we do to deserve such warmth and kindness?  I was on a low today and feeling totally and completely mentally, emotionally and physically exhausted.  Every muscle is sore (thanks to the Pat Tillman run and Lettie and Lauren who ran with me, oh and my run out to the lake.  Wakeboarding is definitely exercise!), my mind was at the end of the rope trying to make sure that I had everything covered and my emotions were on a short leash today.  It wasn’t my best day and I will make tomorrow better. 

My friends wanted to help me, my home.  Gabrielle and her family showed up with dinner (all orange to satisfy a super picky person whose name rhymes with pain) and a prepared FHE lesson.  Everything had our family in mind (even down to the drawn pictures to help us recognize our blessings) and I could see the time and preparation…They spent the eve with us and it was really so delightful.  Some adults (and partial adults) in my home for more than 20 minutes was great.  I couldn’t believe how much effort went in to the dinner and lesson.  I was so grateful for her time, her energy and desire to teach her own family and mine about serving the needy.  : )

Then, Minda and her family also showed up to take care of the landscaping since Tim isn’t quite on top of this week.  All 3 of them out doing their individual task while I prepped my kids for bed, hugged and kissed them and said the very last kind and patient words I had for the day.  They trimmed my palms, edged, mowed and sprayed for weeds.  The were working into the dark but didn’t stop until it was all done.

I am certain that I do not deserve this.  I was quite overcome and humbled to see such a sight-families working together for the benefit of another family.  I was inspired and moved.  I want to teach my kids the same.  I want to recognize families that might be in need of a friend, some company, an FHE lesson, some help in the yard, and orange ish dessert with orange sprinkles.  I want to stop thinking of myself and think of others.  I want to be a better friend.  I want to seek opportunities to serve others.

Ladies (and your family), thank you so much.  I am more grateful than words could say.  I have been struggling (scrubbling as Zane would say) and wanting to carry all the loads but not all days are good.  I was feeling so sorry for myself just yesterday.  I was feeling lonely and tired and short of all the parenting traits that I would like to possess.  It is always hard to be on the receiving end of service. My kids watched and saw your families working together.  My kids noticed your kindness and willingness to help us out. 

Thanks again for sharing your families with mine.  Thank you for the example.  Thank you for thinking of us.  Thank you for taking time from your very busy days to bring smiles and happiness to our home.  Thank you!  Thank you!

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” ~Helen Keller

“Happiness is not perfected till it is shared.”  ~Jane Porter