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Although I have LOVED every minute of the holidays this year…hosting, wrapping, parties, gifts, food, friends, fun, sweets, treats, family, etc. there are two experiences I want to remember forever.  And wouldn't you know it…they involve service, which is where the really important moments often happen - when doing for others.

1.  Last Tuesday we went to the place where my friend, Frances, lives(d).  Her phone had been disconnected, so I wasn't sure on her status.  We were told that she had been moved just recently to hospice care.  We were disappointed to not get to see her, but had come armed with truffles and smiles to share with the other residents.  We made our rounds thru the lobby visiting with residents who sit and socialize there.  Jacob played the piano for them (he wouldn't do it when we asked him, but couldn't turn down a sweet woman who asked him).  And Caleb stood by my side as we visited with each person individually.  Samuel just ran laps around the lobby, which delighted everyone.  Caleb told me tonight that THIS was his favorite memory of the holidays.  "It made me happy", he said. 

2.  On Friday night, we took the two oldest boys to the Samaritan Inn, our local shelter for the homeless or displaced.  It is not a drop in for the night, leave the next day kind of place (although I'm sure they sometimes make exceptions).  It is a well-run facility that requires paperwork and chores and curfews, etc.  There are all kinds of counseling/assistance services to help get people back on their feet, and they even have a transitional apartment building across the street, for those who have income but need supplemental help.  It's a neat, neat place.  Derek, the boys, and I served dinner.  Each of us was busy doing our own jobs.  I was helping with burgers and fixin's.  Derek was doing dishes.  Caleb had napkin/dessert duty.  Jacob was serving fruit salad into bowls and handing them out.  I had tears in my eyes as I watched these two good boys giving it their all, working hard, but enjoying themselves in the process.  They were polite and kind and attentive.  The residents were wonderful to us, and so warm.  We met lots of neat people who are working hard and trying to get back on their own.  It was impressive to see.  We hope to go back every other month this year.  As we were walking out, both boys said they didn't realize that it would "feel this good".  It really did feel good.  And I think we'll all remember it for a long time.  

We dropped by the grounds of the Dallas Temple, where Derek and I got married, while out that way last week.