Bright and early this morning I ran 2+ dozen cupcakes and 2 dozen lemon bars to the middle school. When the sign up had appeared in my email several weeks ago for help with Teacher Appreciation week, I figured it was the least I could do.
(The theme was Superheroes and I initially planned to make some cute toppers for these, but in the interest of time and importance, chose to opt out. I did try to make them delicious.)
I occasionally reflect back to my early years as a mom-with-school-age-kids when I was eager to be involved. I assisted my friend Glenys with Teacher Appreciation one year at Fox Hills Elementary, then when she moved into the role of PTA President, I found myself in charge of the entire week the following year. I loved it, but a year or two later when Glenys was moving and asked if I would be willing to step into the President role, I graciously declined.
Thankfully, I knew my limits ;-)
Thankfully, I knew my limits ;-)
The past few years I've volunteered minimally at school. For lack of a better excuse, I'm tired. I know there are many, many parents who are in those earlier years of volunteering and are eager to help. I also know, however, that they need support. So, as I was working away on my cupcakes and lemon bars yesterday, wondering "What was I thinking [to volunteer and assume it would be simple and easy and I would have plenty of time to do it and it was the least I could do]??" I reminded myself that THIS was the last service I would render to the middle school. I DO appreciate the teachers and staff that have served my children over the years. I DO want to support a friend who stepped up and agreed to head the committee. I DO want my very last child to know through my example that serving and giving back are important values, and that it's often usually not easy or convenient.
I loved this post on service, which prompted me to briefly blog today. It made me think of J. J. and wish (again) that I lived closer.
(This Insta from Britt yesterday made me wish I lived closer, too!)
(Trying not to be jealous of Grandma Judy.)
Shilo had her wisdom TOOTH out yesterday. She was in a lot o' pain and kept saying, "It's a good thing I didn't have four!" Even though she only had local numbing, she was hilarious as we ran a few errands after her extraction. One comment, "Someone could seriously punch me in the face and I wouldn't even feel it!" (I asked her if she'd like me to give it a try. Hah!) She got up bright and early this morning to talk to a seminary class about serving a mission.
A favorite quote:
"When we obey the commandments of the Lord and serve His children unselfishly, the natural consequence is power from God - power to do more than we can by ourselves. Our insights, our talents, our abilities are expanded because we receive strength from the Lord..."
I have seen the natural consequence of serving others over and over and over. I see it daily as Bill renders service to our family, ward, and neighbors. I recognize it regularly as I serve, knowing that I have received necessary expansion through the power of God.
Happy Friday!
Happy Friday!
