Sunday, August 3, 2008

Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder

Hallelujah...Delaney is back from Sault Ste. Marie! When she called last night to say she was an hour away I warned her to "prepare to be squeezed". It was a beautiful thing to see her sweet face.

I do have to say her going away was a good growth opportunity for us all. And while sometimes growth makes us uncomfortable, usually the end result is worth it. I think she really realized all the comforts she has at home - not having them has a way of doing that!

The trip was organized by YouthWorks. Delaney was put into the group called the "Opposums" (which is particularly amusing don't you think Cara?). Her group spent the week volunteering at the War Memorial Hospital Long Term Care Center. This was perfect as baby girl loves chatting it up with the elderly. She was absolutely tickled pink to get to spend the week with these wonderful people. Her favorite was a lady named Thelma. They had fun talking together and D even painted her fingernails for her. Delaney won bingo three times & gave all her prizes to Thelma to give to her great grandchildren. She said they even put on some music & had everyone dancing. She's asked me if she can begin to volunteer at the nursing home in our town. I will have to make some calls this week to see if they will let someone so young volunteer.

One of her favorite sight seeing things they did was going to the Soo Locks and the Tower of History. A ship happened to be going through when they were there & she was amazed. She said she was happy she didn't fall off the tower - we are too :o)

She said her most special time was when the leaders took turns washing the other leaders feet & then washed their feet & prayed over them. Sounds like the room was filled with the Holy Spirit! She said it was an amazing feeling & everyone was crying, but in a good way.

She received a note from one of the leaders: "Delaney, I loved your great attitude this week. You were so much fun to work with. You have some awesome talents, keep using them for His glory. Love your smile." Ahh, makes a momma proud!

In the same way, you younger men must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you, serve each other in humility, for God opposes the proud but favors the humble. So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. 1 Peter 5:5-7

9 comments:

crispy said...

Sounds like it was a great trip. What a blessing for her. And how wonderful to have her back.

Tracy said...

I'm glad to hear that Delaney had such a great trip and that she is home safely. My daughter started volunteering at the nursing home in town at the beginning of July and after volunteering once, was offered a job as an activity therapist. She loves it! She gets to play games with the residents and talk to them. It is a great experience for her. I bet Delaney would be able to volunteer. My niece also volunteers at a nursing home that my sister-in-law works at and she is three years younger than my daughter (12 years old).

Tracy

Tereasa said...

I can't believe your daughter was in the Soo! You have no idea how close she was to me!!!!

Amanda said...

Welcome home to your sweet daughter! How awesome to see God use her even at a young age!

Tereasa said...

RYC- No, I'm not brave. I'm a chicken!! That's why I can't say no and run in the opposite direction!

Katy said...

Wow, she just sounds like an amazing young lady.. No wonder Mom missed her so much and is so proud! I used to volunteer at a nursing home and it led to a full-time job at one point..I was a little older but hopefully she will find a nursing home that will be grateful for her to bless them.

Kathy Eden said...

Sounds like she had a wonderful time. It's always great to hear nice things about our children but especially when they are using their God given gifts to glorify Him.

Lena Just Lena said...

Neat, thanks for sharing this too. I love that part of the country-haven't been in a while, but used to go frequently-before moving to AZ. Your daughter sounds like she's a fine young lady-kudos to you, Mom!

Michael said...

such a great trip......