When dad announced his plans for taking mom to Hawaii for 3 weeks, Mom and I both knew I was going to need help to manage the homestead. The first week when Peter and I were out of school would be fine. But the question was how I was going to get everyone everywhere and everything done once school resumed. After thinking and praying my mom contacted my cousin Dale (who lives 16 hours away) about coming to take care of Larry for the last two weeks of their vacation.
I confess that I had my apprehensions. I am the youngest of the 16 cousins on my mother's side and my brother and I grew up states away from the others. My "cousin" memories are typically fun however they are few. My immediate family has been pretty much a "take care of ourselves" kind of unit. Though I had great memories of Dale from childhood and even had visited in his home a few years ago, I wasn't sure what it would be like to have him come. How would it be to have someone come into my parents home for two weeks and essentially do what I would typically do. I was almost more nervous about having Dale help than having to manage it on my own. What a surprise Dale's coming has been.
I learned that God gave Dale a servants heart. And people like that are truly happy when serving. He really seems like he is having fun taking care of, cooking for and bantering with Larry. They act like two little kids at times and it is fun to watch. Dale is a good cook and Peter and I have been invited to share in the bounty. Dale has provided a good balance as I am involved but not having to take care of all the details of Larry's care.
Perhaps the biggest surprise was how much I have enjoyed being with Dale. He has had a variety of life experiences including one that almost took his life a few years ago. He is very welcoming and has a home that is very open to those in need. Being 13 years my senior he also has stories of a grandpa I never knew. Dale has this fabulous big laugh and gives great bear hugs.
Sometimes I feel alone. Extended family has always been far away. I have just one brother who cannot provide emotional support. My one child rejects me on a daily basis. This time with my cousin has helped me not to feel so alone. He keeps assuring me that he is one phone call and a 16 hour drive away if we need him. I have always been fond of the verse Psalm 68:6 "God sets the lonely in families." I have seen God do that numerous times by giving my "family" through friends. A few years ago God brought me back to live near my immediate family. And once again he has given me family with my very own extended family.
I learned that God gave Dale a servants heart. And people like that are truly happy when serving. He really seems like he is having fun taking care of, cooking for and bantering with Larry. They act like two little kids at times and it is fun to watch. Dale is a good cook and Peter and I have been invited to share in the bounty. Dale has provided a good balance as I am involved but not having to take care of all the details of Larry's care.
Perhaps the biggest surprise was how much I have enjoyed being with Dale. He has had a variety of life experiences including one that almost took his life a few years ago. He is very welcoming and has a home that is very open to those in need. Being 13 years my senior he also has stories of a grandpa I never knew. Dale has this fabulous big laugh and gives great bear hugs.
Sometimes I feel alone. Extended family has always been far away. I have just one brother who cannot provide emotional support. My one child rejects me on a daily basis. This time with my cousin has helped me not to feel so alone. He keeps assuring me that he is one phone call and a 16 hour drive away if we need him. I have always been fond of the verse Psalm 68:6 "God sets the lonely in families." I have seen God do that numerous times by giving my "family" through friends. A few years ago God brought me back to live near my immediate family. And once again he has given me family with my very own extended family.