It was so inspiring to see Zeb work so diligently. He has volunteered for years with his Gramma A. for Ronald McDonald but never has the opportunity to see who he is helping. Tonight however, he really shined. He worked as a runner and we hardly saw him all night as he brought out more food, cleared away empty plates, refilled drinks and helped anyone or anywhere he could. Even after most people pooped out, or when the rest of the volunteers were eating, he was still working hard (he didn’t allow himself to eat until he was so hungry he was shaking).

I was so happy that the kids who volunteered were welcomed, trusted with real tasks and treated so normally. It was evident in all of their eyes how purposeful they felt. And really what better way to feel as though we have a purpose than to serve others in need; to extend ourselves beyond our comfort zones; to remember how blessed we are and share those blessings with others?

It’s makes me sad that we don’t do these things as often as we’d like. There is no good excuse, either. We just allow too much time to pass without making an effort to prioritize. But I’m so thankful for my mom’s church and my parents for giving us this opportunity tonight.

We spent our morning here, volunteering our time packing lunches for moms and dads who’s babies are sick in the hospital.

Z has been here several times with his Gramma A and was an old pro. He showed me the ropes, including going into the basement to retrieve the food items, setting up the bags, stomping and recycling empty boxes, making sandwiches, and stuffing the bags with all the goodies.

Here is one table of finished products, waiting to be delivered.

And the director was nice enough to make Z his own sandwich. That lucky kid. lol

Anyone looking to volunteer with their kids, should contact the Ronald McDonald House in Las Vegas (or your hometown). They always need volunteers and are happy to work with kids.