The Village People

No, I'm not about to burst into the YMCA.

They say it takes a village to raise a child.  This post is about all of the people in our village. This post is dedicated to all of those groups and individuals outside of our family that love our son.

When we are out and about we come into contact with so many people in our day.  Many of my co-workers see my little guy over the summer when we are in town and at the garden.  Just taking the time to talk to my son makes my heart melt!  I love how he is starting to be a little more brave and I don't always have to be the 'translator' between him and new people.  And this summer we started what I'm sure will be a long-standing tradition during the summer months.  We have play dates with all of our littles!  We pass along diapers, clothes, books, and toys between each other.  We swap stories and advice while the kids play. 

One of our country neighbors is one of Dustin's best friends.  August loves to go see Derek!  Derek has cats that he can actually pet and carry around, and cows.  Derek has given him birthday presents and little knick knacks from time to time.  August tells me all the time who gave him his little cement mixer!  The last time we went over, August helped pick up some sticks, and Derek gave him $10! 

The library ladies are so welcoming!  They are so patient when August doesn't really want to give up a book for them to scan and he always comes away with stickers!  They've given him toys their grandkids have outgrown, and a Thomas book that was very loved, but withdrawn from the shelf.  They are always so excited to see him come through the door and he is becoming more talkative with them too.

August LOVES to go to church!  Our church family is so welcoming!  They are so attentive when he is showing them a picture he colored during the service and somebody usually slides over to keep an eye on him when I go up front to read the verses of the day.  Sheri knows what to stock for goodies in the basket and has been known to have a package of fruit snacks or M&M's in her purse too!

August has so many of our friends that have and will continue to pour into him.  They live here in Tama, Sigourney or all over the United States.  He is well loved, and so many times these individuals come to the rescue at just the moment I'm at my wits end.

The other day I was at Taco John's and was finishing my meal when a co-worker and her little girl walked in.  As I got up and threw my trash away, I walked over to say hi.  Her little girl opened her arms up to me and leaned over.  I was so excited!!  She's only been around me twice!  I was also so glad she came because her mom had her hands full with a sippy cup and an empty drink cup.  Her mom was so happy because she didn't know how she was going to accomplish everything, especially when the food came.  I was just happy to help!  I feel like as a mom, we've all been there.  Our hands our full with a child, a cup or two, maybe a purse, and our food will be coming.  I was even able to walk the little girl back to her table while her mom got the food.  I told her this is what the village is for! 

Even if you don't realize the difference you are making in a child's life, their parents do.  Be the village to someone you know with a small child or children, even if it is a small thing.  You never know how big of a difference it makes!