Friends

It's been awhile since I have felt like I have been needed by anyone, other than my children. For the past 13 months, I have been the one in need, and there have been many people who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to give service to my little family and me. At times, it's difficult to be on the receiving end of service, but I've learned a thing or two about it during this time.

Thankfully, today I had the opportunity to help my friend Mechiel. Mechiel had surgery on her knee Friday morning. Her mother was going to be with her (all her boys were on a camping trip) so although Mechiel didn't actually NEED me, she was gracious enough to accept my offer. Friday night my mom kept the kiddos for me. I was able to go grocery shopping, start on housework/laundry, and cook that evening. Mechiel has always loved my lemon cake so I whipped up one of those, made some white chili and even mixed up a new dip recipe that I've just recently learned about. Saturday morning I headed up to see Mechiel and her mother, Wilma. The visit was enjoyable with the exception of the huge mess I made by tipping over one of the containers of white chili. Cleaning up chicken chunks, beans, broth made with sour cream and half and half, out of the crevices of a vehicle is not my idea of entertainment. Visiting, enjoying yummy food, watching a little Food Network was much more fun. Mechiel seemed to be feeling as good as one can expect to feel after knee surgery. I kept trying to get her to take some of her good drugs, but to be honest with you, I think she was afraid it would make her too sleepy. Have you ever known a child who fought sleep because he or she didn't want to miss out on any of the action going on? Well, that's what we have here folks. Just not a child.

Anyone who knows my mother, knows that she's wise and always has saying or quotes ready to fire at you no matter what the situation is. One that I have come to appreciate and believe has been on my mind today. Even though I won't use her exact words, it goes something like this...When you're feeling sorry for yourself, sad, lonely, down in the dumps, depressed, do something for someone else.

Tonight I am grateful for the employees of Mr. Gleam Carwash (for shampooing the white chili out of the van). I am grateful for my good friend Mechiel, who loves me despite my short comings. I am grateful for the "nanny" skills of and the valuable quotes from my wise mother. I am grateful for all the service that has been given to my family and also that I was able to do a little something for someone else for a change.

Moral of this post: If someone wants to do something for you, let them, even if you don't need it. As my father in law tells me, you're robbing someone else of blessings. (See Charlie, I really do listen to you!!)