Despite the heat, I was determined to make some home-made blueberry muffins tonight.  Am I glad I did!  They were SO good, and everyone but my youngest liked them (the youngest just doesn't like blueberries).  There is just a feeling of satisfaction that comes when you know you have made something healthy for your family, and that they all enjoy it! (most of them, anyway)  Tonight, they couldn't wait to help make the muffins.  When I announced I would be baking them, I was greeted with, "Can we help?!?!?!?"  Yes!

What pleased me even more was the desire my children had to help me today.  You see, just a few days ago, we made some zucchini bread.  I asked the boys if they wanted to help.  They couldn't wait to crack the eggs!  Then they took turns holding the blender, and stirring the mix.  I could hear 'ewwww', 'yuck', 'this is gross' coming from their little lips as they mixed the zucchini into the bowl.  They just 'knew' they wouldn't like it!

Well, you should have seen the look of surprise on their faces when they actually TASTED the fruits of their labor!  They couldn't get enough of it!  In fact, I sent some with my dh to work, and sent an extra piece for his co-worker.  Neither one could wait for the next day's lunch.    Yes, it was very rewarding to know I had brought such pleasure to those I care about.

What was more exciting to me is what happened today.  I had to do some shopping, and had a LOT of items to carry into the house.  As soon as I got home, the boys got right to work helping to unload the car.  I didn't even have to ask!  Now THAT is rewarding!  I was so proud of those little buggers!  I know, I know... I sound like I am gushing... well.... I am!  I have just seen such growth in them, and I know it's because they are home... where they belong.... They see and participate in the work that must be done, and have a real appreciation for all that they have.

Isn't that how it is when we deal with those around us?  Sometimes we find ourselves saying, 'ewww', 'yuck', 'this is gross'!  Sometimes we just don't see how it could possibly work out well... how there could be 'sweetness' in the end result.  It reminds me of what God said about Moses in Hebrews 11:25, "Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt:  for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward."  It may look like a mushy, yucky mess to us, but the best is yet to come.... the reward!