A KIND FRIEND

Aren't you grateful for friends who go out of their way to find out how you are doing, really listen, and tell you that they care about you? Me too.

IT'S OVER! & PEOPLE WHO CAN AND DO

Last night I (with one other lady) was in charge of this fun meeting for the women who go to my church. We started planning about a month ago and our theme ended up being gratitude (seems I have that on the brain a lot lately, huh?). We had food (holiday hors d'oeuvres--shouldn't that just be spelled or-derves? It would be a lot easier!), classes on different aspects of gratitude, and we made gratitude journals. Also, we showed this video clip as part of the closing comments. (It's really an awesome clip--only five minutes--go check it out!)

Anyway, it was a great night: good atmosphere, fun people to talk to, great classes, and my sweet husband and oldest son came over to help us clean up afterward (without being asked).

So this morning I am grateful that it went well and that it is over!

I am also so grateful that I didn't have to plan and carry the shindig out all by myself. What a blessing to ask people to help, have them volunteer for a specific part, and then know that it will get done, and not only done well, but in good time!

For instance, our meeting last night had many parts: publicity, food, classes, a craft, a video presentation, set up, take down and clean up. There were people who agreed to teach a class, and other than checking with them once or twice to make sure everything was cool, I didn't do anything other than attend the class! The woman who volunteered to be in charge of the gratitude journals took care of it all and they turned out awesome! And all others who were involved just did their part, followed through to the end and the night turned out great.

Hoorah for dependable people!! Is that where the term "can-do" came from? Dependable people are those who can & do? Hmmm...I never thought about it. It makes sense, but does anyone know for sure?

KIND AND FLEXIBLE FRIENDS

Today I am so grateful for friends who are understanding of other people's circumstances and flexible in their schedules: specifically, my two neighbors. One, I was supposed to watch her children this morning, and since two of my own were up throwing up last night, I didn't think she would be too keen to have her children over at my house this morning. When I called to tell her, there was absolutely no hint of frustration or anger that I was disrupting her plans, but just empathy for my situation.

I was supposed to go with my other neighbor to visit a friend this morning (our church has this awesome program called Visiting Teaching, where all the women are paired up and have a few other friends to visit every month--that way we can make new friends, help each other and, well...visit :0), and when I called her, she was happy to go without me and expressed hope that my kids would feel better soon.

I'm so kind for friends that are kind, helpful, flexible and nonjudgemental! Thank you Debbie and Deidra!