Last night my next door neighbor, Joni, rang our doorbell at about 9 p.m...she had brought a large slab of the most delicious cake we've ever eaten (chocolate with chocolate icing), made by their daughter, Paige. The cake was unbelievable! Paige has a GIFT for baking, and makes the best pies and cakes in Edmond! She's so young to be so talented!...and yet it's not just her skills in the kitchen. She's also growing up in the same mold as her Mom and Dad, who spend a good part of every day, looking for ways to do nice things for people. Who doesn't know of the wonderful Thanksgiving Day Turkey Extravaganza that Neil's and Jimmy's families organize every year? Who is not aware of the hundreds of people who are invited into Neil and Joni's home every year, for food and fellowship?
There's no telling how many peoples' lives have been influenced by the generosity and selflessness of the Arter family! Small wonder, then, that their daughters are growing up with servant hearts-- just like Mom and Dad.
Paula and I have had a chance-- first hand-- to see how 'love for others' happens in families. We have met, and have been the recipients of many kindnesses from the parents of Neil and Jimmy. Paula has been invited to go to their farm and pick wild blackberries and morels. We have received numerous cuttings of special plants that grow around their home in Lindsay. I have a huge petrified wood log in my yard -- courtesy of Wesley and Janet (who know that we love rocks!).
The love for others and the 'giving qualities' that are hallmarks of Janet and Wesley are emulated by Neil and Jimmy. Now, we see those same wonderful qualities being passed down to another generation in that family....most recently in the sharing of pies and cakes baked by Paige!
How many people have been influenced for good due to the wonderful, God-like qualities of this wonderful family? You've got to love the Arter family!
Isn't it amazing how one God-like qualities can be developed in one generation after another in a family?
Thanks, Arters, for being the best neighbors in the world! We love you guys! Paige, keep up your culinary skills -- you're a WOMDER!..in or out of the kitchen! You've won our hearts!
Gene and Paula
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4 comments:
OK, so I just read this post right after taking a sample of today's cake to your door! We love you guys too, but please know that sometimes we bring food items to you just because we simply made too much and just want someone to share with! We want to have you over to our home but never know if you have time! So, though I agree with everything you have to say about my in-laws, we just share with you because we love you! . . and sometimes it's a bribe for putting up with us!
Joni, they never talk about having to put up with you. It's always about how sweet you guys are and how much they love you. He's not joking. Chocolate cake is just just the icing on top.....
Well said, Gena! With the Arter's, we get to 'have the cake and eat it too'....
Having the Arter family for neighbors is as good as it gets!
Merry Christmas!
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