There are going to be people who see a need in your life and ask, “what can I do to help you?” And then, there are going to be people who see a need in your life and know how to help in ways you cannot begin to articulate.

They insert themselves not in an overpowering way, but with a love and confidence that know how and when to get you a life jacket when you are drowning.

This past week, I was loved in very tangible ways by friends. And I want to tell you about one instance not in any way to gloat over my fortune in having some really awesome friends, but simply to be a reminder to us all (myself included) how powerful tangibly loving someone can be.

On Monday, a friend texted to say she was going to Costco. She said she would drop by a Costco dinner for my crew as well as a soup for me, and also asked if there was anything I needed while she was there. Obviously, this is amazing. But what I wasn’t expecting once she left was to see that she had also left me a pink table cloth, and valentines plates, and crepe paper.

I am honestly teary as a write this, because what she perceived was that I was so overwhelmed with the mouth pain that Valentines Day would likely be something I wouldn’t think for at all and then feel a bit sad not to celebrate with the kids (I love any excuse to celebrate). There was no judgement or expectation…just a simple act to take that weight off of me if I wanted to do something to celebrate.

When my kids wake up in the morning, they are going to be so excited! What a way to start the week! And all because a friend thought to help me in a way I didn’t even know I needed.

I am posting this here as reminder for myself. If I am making a meal, go ahead and double it for the person at church who just had knee surgery. If I am washing and cutting the fruit, go ahead and pack a little container for the elderly person across the street. If I am grabbing Valentines for my own kids, offer to grab some for the sleep deprived mom with the newborn.

These small acts might not seem important, but from one tired, forgetful mom going to bed feeling like an absolute Valentines Day champion, they matter ????