But more significant to my memory of that week in London (en route from Africa for a visit home) was a kind older gentleman who took an interest in our young family. Just how much touring around can a young couple do with two toddlers in tow? This man suggested the London Zoo. And with that suggestion he gave us a gift of money to buy a stroller ... we had none along with us. So this picture shows my brother, who joined us later in the week, with our boys (one in the shiny new stroller) gazing at some swans.
Do you ever look back on your life and wonder how you did what you did? I continued across the Atlantic with the boys, one still in diapers, while the Gardener and my brother went on to Scotland to do some study. How did I manage that journey? At least the stroller made the airport easier.
A gift from a thoughtful stranger.
Dotsie, I sometimes wonder how I did it, too. Life with little ones is so busy. Yet when I look back, I think I accomplished more in a day than I do now without those sweet interruptions.
ReplyDeleteAnd the travel - I hear you!
What a kind gentleman you encountered there in London.
That is so generous of the stranger in London. Perhaps an angel? It's amazing the things we can do when we have to and then we wonder how we managed. God is good.
ReplyDeleteWhat a neat story! Such a thoughtful gift. When we are young, we do some amazing things...traveling alone with two children is pretty impressive.
ReplyDeleteWhat a sweet story. I definitely depended on the kindness of strangers as I criss-crossed the Atlantic and the continent with babies. I can imagine that you just 'did it' when it came time to head across the ocean on your own with two little boys!
ReplyDeleteYes, I do look back and wonder, and I did nothing as adventurous as international travel! And, like Lorrie, I seemed to be able to accomplish more then. Youth has its advantages. That...and the more important fact that God equips us for the work that He intends for us to do.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your sweet story God's provision through a man with a generous heart.
I often reflect on "how did I do that" moments. I have to think that the kind stranger was on an errand for God!!
ReplyDeleteBest,
Bonnie
I am thankful I wasn't in the position to travel alone with our two girls and admire the strength you showed back then Dotsie. Therefore kindness from strangers didn't play a part as a young mother. My parents, on the other hand would give us money to go out and babysit the girls while we enjoyed dinner or a show. They didn't have much money to spare but felt it was important for a relationship to have time alone from young children.
ReplyDeleteJudith
I think he may have been an angel! You are incredible to have made that trans-Atlantic journey with your boys!! I do find that we do "what we have to do" without much other thought about it, but from outside looking in on this feat, I'm most impressed! Love that photo!! blessings and hugs ~ tanna
ReplyDeleteSweet. When we were missionaries (stateside) and stranger gave each of our small children a small sum of money to buy themselves something. It was sweet, and thoughtful.
ReplyDeleteDeanna
I travelled around the world with my two children but they were a bit older one was 28 and the other 20 that was a lot easier but had it moments. I t would have been very hard with little ones.
ReplyDeleteMerle..........
What a sweet man,
ReplyDeleteHOpe things are going well for you, and your trip was wonderful!
Hugs,
Betsy
You did it because you are amazing, my friend!
ReplyDeleteWhat a sweet story, one you will remember forever, because of Prince William's birth and the kindness of the stranger. You were a very courageous young mom, believing that you could do anything, it seems.
ReplyDeleteI often wonder how I did things too. One time I was on my way to Vancouver Island on the ferry from the mainland with a small baby girl and my young son, 2 years of age. My baby needed to nurse and my boy was full of energy wanting to run around. Carolyn was crying, when an older woman came along and offered to look after Greg while I nursed my baby.I know she was sent by God, because only the Lord knew how difficult my life was and how much the kindness of that lady meant to me.
Podso,
ReplyDeleteAngels among us, indeed!!!
Fondly,
Pat
That was a very thoughtful thing for that man to do, and I'm sure you've re-paid it forward many times in your own life, Dotsie!
ReplyDeleteYes, youth is such a benefit, as we see or feel no limitations at that age. At my age now I have to figure how to get off the floor without hurting my knees or back when I play with my granddaughter...lol!
Very kind of that person! Yes, its really great, whatever little things, we accomplish with the little ones :). Beautiful photo to go with the post. Have a great day dear Podso.
ReplyDelete