Tuesday, January 11, 2011

tuesdays with elna....

Every Tuesday I get the privilege of being a volunteer for Meals on Wheels. I absolutely love it and look forward to it every week. I know I get more out of it than I put in. The first stop is to a couple named Elna and Nephi. They have been married over 65 years. I know I am not supposed to have favorites, but this couple is the top of the list.

Elna spent her life volunteering in the local Senior Center. She always tells me everyone has a story and if people would just take long enough to hear the stories of others there would be more kindness int he world. This past spring she fell and shattered her leg. She has been home bound ever since. She is a character. I have written about her before. She always smiles and is so happy to see me. I wish I could sit and talk with her for longer than I do. She has a twinkle in her eye, and a loud laugh that is so fun.

Since she has been hurt, she has been crocheting little lap size afghans. She has a spare bedroom in her house that currently has fifty or more. About every three or more months she has Nephi take them down to a homeless shelter, VA hospital or state hospital. She wants everyone to have something that was handmade so they know someone cares. About once a month she gives me one. I tell her I am fine, but she always wants me to have one. I have a sizeable stack now, and every time I see it, I think of a sweet woman who reaches out in simple ways to help others. She doesn't know how to live her life any other way.

I can't wait for next Tuesday with Elna.

2 comments:

laurel said...

That is so great. I want to do something like that. I love learning from old people. They are so wise. YOu are so lucky to be with them.

The Classy Kitchen said...

How tender. Makes me want to know Elna. Thanks for sharing.