I went to an Assisted Living Home today with my son . The children made Valentine's heart bean bags, sang songs, and read their favorite book to a resident - very cute. Imagine 6 & 7' year old boy and girls all in kacki's with red, white and pink polo's.
As I was listening to Cole sing with the other children, I couldn't help but think of my grandparents. One set living in Florida by the beach, the other living in Kansas on a farm - couldn't be more opposite! Seeing the 'grandma's' and 'papa's' made me miss my visits with my grandma, who lives in Siesta Key, in particular. I miss the times she would take out her homemade coffee ice cream - that felt like she only made for me - and missed the boat rides with her in the bay at Siesta Key, while Grandpa would dock the boat and we would get out and gather sand dollars with our feet...
I had to ask myself - how is that I live close to these 'strange' old people and I still have 4 grandparents that all live far away from my children and I? As I was thinking about all of this - I saw Cole sit down by an older gentleman, sharing his favorite book with him....A Dr.Seuss book....after Cole read his book, the three of us started talking and I found out the gentleman, Lawrence, was a farmer in North Atlanta and use to crop cotton and corn...I felt like I was having a conversation with my grandpa 10 years ago - before his Alzheimer's sat it.
When the children and I left the home, I couldn't help but think that is "So God"....knowing what my heart 'needs', out of love, and providing blessings of love for me - even through strangers. I was so blessed to sit down with Lawrence and hear him talk about his school days, and farming - even If I never see him again. But having a conversation with him was just like talking with my grandfather who use to live in Kansas and farm hundreds and hundreds of corn and wheat. He had the same confidence, strength and love as my grandpa.
When I said goodbye to Lawrence, I could sense the love in his heart and appreciation of being with Cole and the other children. He reminded me Valentines Day is a wonderful time of year to bless everyone you meet with love and kindness... I realize not everyone may have a "Valentine", but I do know God will bless your journey with His Love when He is a part of your story. And that love is more fulfilling than any earthly love experience here. I know - I have an amazing soul mate and yet the love I have from my creator is the life that allows me to embrace each new day.
Happy Valentines Day!
Sweet blessing from my heart to yours
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