One of our BEST Days Ever!

Today was one of the best days that Olivia and I have had in our 9 1/2 months together.

That happens, sometimes, when you pray, take your eyes off yourself, and focus on others.

My sweet friend, Amy Abel, sold these great shirts and as a result over $4,000 was donated to bless orphans in China through Love Without Boundaries.




On the back they say,

"Once our eyes are opened, we can't pretend we don't know what to do. God who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls knows that we know and holds us responsible to act."
Proverbs 24:12

When we got up this morning, Olivia and I sat down on our family room floor so that I could share my idea. Since Jesus gave His life for us today, on Good Friday, maybe we could do something to give to others. We both love flowers and know how blessed we are to have family, so maybe we could bless others with flowers. Her immediate response was, "Yes! Yes! Yes Mommy!"

So out came her markers and paper.




We went to the store and Olivia specifically picked out each of the pots of tulips and daffodils. Our stay at Nationwide Children's Hospital last fall was a brief one. Not everyone is so fortunate. Across the street is our Ronald McDonald House. (We were told today that currently there are 80 rooms and that when their expansion is complete - adding another 40 - it will become the largest RMH on the planet!). We have friends and their kiddos who have been blessed by the care and hospitality of RMHs across the country. Since many of those staying at RMH won't be home for Easter, Olivia thought they might like some flowers.






On the other end of the age spectrum are those who may not have family and find themselves living in senior care centers.



We asked one of the aids if she knew anyone who might enjoy our two pots. Two women immediately came to mind. One was bed-ridden and not very alert. It was also her birthday. The other lives within the homes dementia unit. The second was very excited and assured us that she would care for the flowers until we returned for them. We were told that neither has visitors.

As we were walking out, the aid asked what prompted us to do this. I started by saying, "it is Good Friday..." Olivia interrupted me to say, "Jesus died on the cross and took away all of our sins for us. He likes us to help and love others." I wish I could have captured a video of the aids face as Olivia shared her heart. I love my sweet girl and how she loves Jesus!

As I tucked Olivia in bed tonight, she said to me, "I love you, Mommy. Thank you for a great day."

We try to live our lives in a way that loves, serves, and blesses others. We want it to be part of who we are and we pray that as that happens, people will see and know the love of Jesus. Taking the time to do so intentionally not only ends up blessing others, but us as well.