November 20, 2009

the bazaar

We don't get to go every year. Seems like our November weekends are particularly crazy... marching band, boy scouts and work. But this year, the timing was right and I was thrilled that I had half of an empty square on my calendar... and that it lined right up with my Mom's church bazaar. She works so hard every year... starting the day after Christmas when she hits the craft stores in search of clearance, and ending in a heap when bazaar day is done. How I love to browse those long tables and admire the handiwork of the church ladies... and I love that with a glance... I know which items were made by my Mom's own hands.
But we don't necessarily go to shop. The kids & I go to work. In the kitchen. Because not only does my Mom organize the front tables, she & Bob also put on a five star lunch! Chicken salad, taco soup, meatball subs... a few slices of tropical carrot cake! My job is to make the sandwiches... and scoop out the chicken salad to top off a salad. Laura works the counter, making and serving up the coffee and filling the orders as quickly as they come in. And Camden? He is the heart breaker. His job is to bus the tables... and he is good. So good, in fact, that the church ladies nearly swoon. And practically throw one dollar bills at him! Oh yes, that boy made over twelve dollars in tips!

Bazaar day is a day I love. Lending my own hands to something so near and dear to my Mom's heart, and being a part of her world. And most years I go away from it with tears in my pocket. Don't worry... they are tears glistening with joy and with gratitude. You see... these people... they appreciate my Mom & Bob. They see their hard work and know that these are two special people. A church is not ever just one person, or a few... it is about all of the hands that serve and worship Jesus. And my parents make sure they do their part and give all they can... and probably a little more. When the church members figure out who I am, they go on and on. About how much my parents do, and what a difference they make. And so my eyes tear up. Because while I hoped and prayed for their faith, I never quite thought to dream of this for them... and it is as much a gift to me as it is for their church. And I am ever thankful that God's dreams reach so much farther than mine.

10 comments :

Sharone said...

I love how God answered your prayers for your family in such a radical way. :) What a special time for your family!

Kelli said...

How incredibly awesome that you can all share in this event together!!! One of those precious moments!!

Busy Bee Suz said...

This is so sweet. I know how much you love your parents...and it means so much to see how much they mean to others as well. I am so happy you were able to help out this day, I am sure your Mom was beaming with pride at you and your wonderful kids!!!

K said...

Sounds like a great day!

I'm sure that your mom appreciates the help.

Cynthia@RunningWithLetters said...

Isn't it amazing--the joy we get from investing in other people's worlds and causes :) I love how God designed life this way.

dawn said...

God's dreams reach so much further than mine...I love that Dawn!

jenn said...

you are blessed with such a wonderful family! Thankful for answered prayers!

Graceful said...

This is such a sweet post. Your mom and Bob sound like such special, giving people.

Grandma J said...

How blessed you are that God has touched your family with so much love and dedication. Your parents must be very proud of you...yes, I have no doubt.
Happy Thanksgiving!

Mary Lou said...

This year I am so glad to include you in the blessings I have to be Thankful for. Have a blessed Thanksgiving!
Mary Lou

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