Five years ago a friend asked if I would be an emergency house in case his kids needed something on the way to school. My house is between his house and the school so it was very convenient.
Over the five years I was not called on for any assistance whatsoever. The kids didn't have a problem where they needed to come to my place.
On the other hand I had quite a few very good visits. If I was out in the yard they would stop for a visit. Conversation was easy with both kids. I usually went away having learned something or having a good laugh .
The only serious incident turned out to be funny. One day after school I was talking to the little girl. Apparently somebody drove around the block three times to check on the man talking to the little girl. After three times they decided I was okay but reported to her Dad. Their Dad had a big laugh and related the story to me.
This was the last year for me to watch the kids. They both go to another school next year.
The other day I answered a knock on the door and the kids were there with a thank you card. I was blown away. I didn't expect anything. They both said how much they appreciated having the security of being able to check in at my house. They promised to check on me and have a visit once in a while.
Surprise appreciation is the best.
That is great! I am certain they all appreciated you!! Nothing better than a safe place between school and home:)
ReplyDeleteI'll miss them but will still see them in various places.
DeleteAww how sweet! It is nice to have the security of knowing someone is still nice and protective.
ReplyDeleteWonderful story!
ReplyDeletewhat a heartwarming story. And so good that the children have also been taught to appreciate your willingness to help. I hope you get to enjoy watching them grow.
ReplyDeleteI will still see them.
DeleteThat was good of them.
ReplyDeleteYes, and I don't think Mom and Dad coached them.
DeleteHow wonderful Red, loved this story and I can see how they must have appreciated immensely being able to have that security of knowing you were there when they needed you. Hope your 4th was a very happy one :)
ReplyDeleteThey had the security but never had to use it. I enjoy fourth of July but I am Canadian.
DeleteThat is sweet of them to thank you.
ReplyDeleteIt was a surprise and much appreciated.
DeleteIt is wonderful to have a "safe house" for children going to school. We share the same honour here and our "street" children are now off to college. Congratulations Red - wonderful feeling, eh.
ReplyDeleteThese two go into gr six and nine. Before you know it they will be gone.
Deletesuch a lovely story..as one of our famous politicians said, it takes a village.
ReplyDeleteGreat statement and very true.
DeleteWhat a perfectly nice thing for them to do. They sound like lovely kids.
ReplyDeleteThey are very knowledgeable climber The girl is a dancer and the son is a wall climber.
DeleteHow sweet of them. Their parents have raised them right, giving thanks to someone who mattered to them and provided a safe haven, just in case. :-)
ReplyDeleteTheir parents have definitely given them the right stuff.
DeleteYou are really blessed, it is nice to have some contact with youngsters. It also was very nice that they showed their appreciation, they are learning how to make this world continue respectfully.
ReplyDeleteThe big dragonfly in your yard is probably a Pond Hawk. they migrate just like the birds.
I will check out this dragonfly.
DeleteThat's so sweet!!!!
ReplyDeleteSweet makes the world go around!
DeleteHi Red, That's a very cool story. You are so right, surprise appreciation is best.
ReplyDeleteI had planned to tell the kids how much I would miss them the next time I saw them.
DeleteWhat a wonderful story! Aside from the fact that I really like that you were such a good neighbour, I love how thoughtful those kids are. Those parents have certainly done well by their kids.
ReplyDeleteThey're certainly first class parents. they push the kids to make their own decisions.
DeleteHow thoughtful. These kids are being raised right.
ReplyDeleteThese kids have an awesome home.
Deletethat is SO very sweet!!! they'll remember you always.
ReplyDeleteI'll remember these kids too. I do have lots of contract with their Dad.
DeleteThat is just so great! SOunds like a lovely family. :)
ReplyDeleteA truly special gift.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful experience!
ReplyDeleteVery good of them!
ReplyDeletei'm sure it was a great reassurance to the children's parents to know you were watching out for them. And always nice to know you are appreciated.
ReplyDeleteIt's just the most wonderful thing to be appreciated. You were a fabulous friend and neighbor.
ReplyDelete