$27.50...

it might not sound like much...but let me tell you about it.

we've had a bowl on our kitchen counter for a couple months.
with just pennies in it.

i talked to the kids one day about how "every little thing" we do counts...no matter how small...and we started adding to the bowl as a reminder...that the little things we do add up.

a couple weeks ago we cleaned out our basement and the kids' rooms.
we listed the toys they were willing to get rid of on craigs list.
they got $15 total from their toys!
{what didn't sell was given to a local charity that picked it up on our doorstep.}
we added that money to the bowl on the counter.

rebekah gathered change from who-knows-where and it added up to $3.21.
it was added to the bowl.

remember when they kids handed out candy at the post office?
a man handed them a $1 bill that day.
they added it the bowl.

this afternoon we took the bowl to the bank.

we had to put the change {which was the majority of it!} in rolls.
we were there for an hour.
and everyone had great attitudes the whole time.
they were so excited!!!


the grand total was $27.50.
not that huge of a total.
but every penny was worked for and counted and meant something...

we came home and went to the computer and gave the money to water.
because that is the first thing they want to give to.
i know it's because it's what MY heart aches for.
and part of me struggles with "is it ok that what my heart aches for bends their heart the same way? how do i let their own desires come through??"

but i'm just trying to share my heart with them.
and help us to care for others and not just ourselves.

it was a pretty sweet way to start our Christmas.

ps! my kids got their wish! i didn't lose it once today! thank you, Lord!!!