If heaven has a canteen, Mia will totally run that place someday.

If heaven is a place where we will all use our spiritual gifts to their fullest potential, then Mia will get to micro-managing everyone there and have that place whipped into shape in no time.

Sunday was the Walk for Hope, and our sweet small group kids decided to have a bake sale and donate the profits. Mia's goal was to raise $5. We like to encourage our kids to set the bar as low as possible.

Before we got there Andy and I talked to Mia about how things were probably not going to go exactly how she expected them to and to think about ways she could handle her frustrations that did not involve her crying in a corner for 3/4 of the evening.

And low and behold she did it! She had to take a few deep breaths and had to reign in the furry a couple of times, but for the most part she was able to pull off one of her elaborate schemes while still enjoying herself (for the most part). I was equally thrilled and relieved.

And given the fact that we kind of forgot to show them how to make change and they couldn't always tell the difference between a nickel and a quarter, these little rug-rats made almost $90!

I am so thankful for my small group. They are not only my personal life-line, but the small group experience has become just as precious to my kids. 

And here's another thing: When your communication skills fail miserably and you accidentally leave your kids at church, there is always someone that will assume responsibility for them until you realize they're gone. 

If you feel like something is missing in your faith journey, or if you just need some extra support as you try to figure out how to raise your family in this crazy world, then find a small group and do life with them. 

I don't know a parent who couldn't use a back up or two.