Lemonade Stand for China

Last week we booked our tickets for China.  Then I asked my kids to tell me what were the top things we just had to do before Daddy and I left the country.  First thing that came out of their mouths: "Lemonade Stand".  They wanted to raise money to give away.  I asked them who they wanted to give the money to.  Their answer, "Kids in China".  My kids are not perfect.  They argue with each other, they argue with me, they can be impatient and rude and struggle, like all of us, to show love to each other.  But one thing they are is generous.

We are busy. Mind-boggling busy.  Life is swirling.  So many details to get in line before leaving.  But this was one thing that I was determined to make happen.  We picked to have the sale on the 4th of July because Daddy and the rest of the neighborhood would be home.  We spent the morning baking together, mixing lemonade, and making signs.  I was there for support but I wanted this to be theirs.  They came up with what to bake, the prices, the signs and set up.  We had pink lemonade, m & m cookies, chocolate cookies and watermelon.  The water cooler is the newest addition to our family.  Purchased at Walmart for $22, inspired by this blogpost.  My hope is that is will quench the thirst of many people at many lemonade stands, parties, picnics, and sporting events.

Our first guests brought some yummy brownies for us to sell and the first change to hit our bucket. We started at the edge of our garage, but then the neighborhood got in on the action and the men came up with a better idea.....

We moved our stand down to the end of our driveway.  Some neighbors helped Kevin move our deck umbrella, known on the street as our satellite (another new purchase this year that has allowed us to use our deck during the hot summer months), we hooked up a fan to an extension cord, and reopened business.  Many neighbors stopped by and lingered to hang out.  Many friends drove by on their way to their holiday festivities.  It was hot.  I mean REALLY hot that day and actually everyday since we booked for China.  We have spent lots of time outside and I think we might be ready for the heat of China.  The heat index is only going to rise until we fly out - then it drops to the 80s.  So while everyone in this part of the world is melting, we are counting it a blessing to prepare us for the heat and humidity we are going to be traveling towards.  

Just because you are 2 or 3 years old doesn't mean you can't serve.  These two have older siblings setting a beautiful example for their lives.  

Happy customers. 

We had so much fun.  It was a great break from travel prep.  We got to spend time with friends and each other.  We raised 138.  3 Days until I get on a plane.  4 days until my feet hit Chinese soil.  10 days until I get to see my daughter face to face.  21 days until our family is united.