little things; big blessings

It doesn't happen very often.  I went out to dinner with friends, and withOUT Elias.  We talked in complex sentences.  We used metal silverware.  No one had to tend to someone's drooling or other bodily functions--in fact, I'd bet there was no drooling at all.  Although I was greatly looking forward to this, I didn't realize how much I--we all--needed it.  I think we all commented on how timely our little gathering was.  There was the strongest impression of the Spirit at work.  I came back not only with nice memories of a nice time with friends at Quivey's, but much more encouraged, hopeful, and energized.

It was started off by the generous (I'd say, inspired) babysitting offer that came out of the blue from an amazingly wonderful college student home on Christmas break who had watched Elias in the past.  She and her 2 friends gave me some relief time during those first, incredibly-difficult months when Elias first came home and I was overwhelmed, clueless, sequestered, and often crippled with back pain--their free offer to me, because for some reason I am terrible about asking for help (we share a mutual friend).  I'm amazed by these women:  personable, level-headed, smart, beautiful, fun, generous individuals whose love and sensitivity for God really shine through.  I am eternally grateful for their help, and this night was not only an extension of it, but a reminder of the way God, through His people, has taken care of us in the past.

Elias caught on right away that he wasn't coming with me and cried a little as I was leaving.  He had fun, though, as I knew he would.  I talked a little too loudly when I returned so he woke up and ran excitedly to me, chattering and suggesting all these things to do that would ensure we'd stay up and be together.  Any guilt I may have been harboring for leaving him was assauged by Elias saying over and over (after she was safely gone, of course)  "I had fun with Ms. [A],"  "I had fun playing letters with Ms. [A]."

 Thank you for a wonderful night, Ms. A. and F. and S!