saved

I realized last night that I was saved many times this week. There were many times when, for one reason or another, I felt like I was at the end of my reserves. And each time, someone stepped in and saved me. And each time, that someone was a child.

I only wish I had photo-documentation for all of those times.

On Monday afternoon, Eva was extremely intractable. She kept calling for her dad, who was on a week-long business trip. She didn't want my consolation. I was tired, and I was really tired of listening to her cry. A sweet neighbor girl came over just then and asked if Eva could come and play at their house for an hour. I could have kissed her. Eva was distracted and I had a little break. When she came home, it was time to start bedtime preparations and I was able to handle motherhood again.

On Wednesday afternoon, I was exhausted. I had gotten very little sleep, because Eva was sick and up throughout the night. I hadn't been able to finish my preparations for hosting book club because she was so clingy and wanted only to be held. Max took her for a walk, and while they were gone, I vacuumed and took a shower. When they got home, she was happy and I was able to finish getting ready. That small act literally turned my day around.

Lucas has been home sick for the last few days with an ear infection. While on his Motrin highs, he embarked on a project of making crayons on the crayon-maker for all the kids in his class. He graciously allowed Eva to be his helper through many many batches, even giving her "promotions" from time to time, so she could participate even more.

On Thursday, I had a blinding headache all day, and nothing that I did or took was easing the pain. By the time evening rolled around, I just couldn't go on. Max and Lucas engaged Eva in a game of burying each other with pillows and blankets, while I laid down on the couch with a hot compress on my head. I was impressed by the way they all played together, each truly enjoying their game, and I was oh so grateful for the respite. (As soon as they were all in bed, I went to bed myself.)


And finally, yesterday afternoon, I was just in the doldrums. I felt like I hadn't been able to accomplish very much, and that the entire week had been a bit of a let-down. I fought the urge to take a nap and recruited Max to help me rake leaves and sweep off the sidewalks. Neither one of us was particularly excited about the task, but I wanted the boost that I get from getting things done. Just then, two sweet neighbor girls came over, armed with rakes. They jumped right in to help us, and made the job so fun that even Max ended up having a great time. They shortened our work time by half, and improved both our moods.

Now I am off to write several thank you notes. I can't help but wonder if any of these children realize the positive impact they had on me by their simple actions that were performed just when I really needed help. And I feel, more than ever, that I want to be the kind of person who is tuned in enough, and willing enough, to provide that kind of meaningful service to someone else.