So, instead you get three tidbits to leave you wanting more:
-I was typing addresses in to submit to a very generous organization who will donate holiday meals to the kids in the after school program. I asked one of the girls her address as I didn't seem to have it on her registration sheet (ignore that part, boss). She said oh just put this address down. I said no I need yours. Her response, "I don't know my address, we move so much I don't bother learning it at each place, so just use this one because this happens every day". I'm sure there are numbers and research I could give you on consistency and building relationships but those numbers don't matter when a living and breathing testimony from an 8th grade girl reminds you the importance of consistency and a safe place when many other things in her life don't provide that. We take it for granted so easily and I easily forget the reality these precious children live. So, the day in and day out that can seem hum drum to me is sometimes the most comforting and beautiful thing they will experience in a day. Talk about a little reality check
-I have two boys that I want to keep as my own that come to the house every day (Nevermind that we're closer in age than what would be appropriate, I adore these two). They are the most resilient and incredible kids ever- but of course the ones that keep me on my knees the longest. One of them needs to attend a concert for a school assignment. He didn't even consider asking his family but patiently reminded me the days leading up to the event about the concert. He's learned well how we work :). I texted one of my weekly volunteers very last minute (as is life right now!) asking if it was a possibility. His response was "3 people want a piece of me tonight but this would be my priority if nobody else can take him". Aside from how wildly popular this guys is (believe me, you'd enjoy a little time with him and his lovely wife as well!) I was so taken aback by his response. I gave him the details and of course proper dress attire and his response was, "Anything for the Nathanator". So blessed- these kids and myself are so incredibly blessed by a team of volunteers that give their evenings, days, hours, tears, and love each week. I daily am reminded when I turn off the lights and lock the door how perfectly this plan has fallen into place and how each person that joins us loves these kids as Christ has called us to love- and that, my friends, isn't always easy to come by. I am so overly grateful for each volunteer that has touched any part of this ministry. This dream would not be true without these incredible people. And by them I am so humbled and blessed!
-Living in Detroit we often shared the phrase to each other, 'get out of the neighborhood'. Sometimes you just need to step away and get a breath of fresh air. That I certainly did and I now feel as though I can conquer the world after an incredible vacation in Grand Rapids over Thanksgiving with the Mencke clan. It was everything beautiful that a vacation could be and I came back so refreshed and renewed. Keep my bed warm Mencke's...I'll be back!!
With Donevon and Delaney right before I left Grand Rapids- pure joy in those two little bodies!
