Short on the laughs, long on the gratitude

Yesterday, I came home from a terrible appointment - hair not doctor, but more on that when my pity party is over - to a surprise package. Thinking it was from the usual suspects, I opened it up, only to find that it had been sent by a blogger friend, the famous Kelly, whose "thoughts and ramblings on life" are some of the best in the blogosphere. (Though I must come clean and admit that I'm terrible at leaving comments on her and others' blogs these days, despite my faithful following of them.)

She had sent me an Earth Mama pampering package, complete with herbal foot soak, belly oil and lip balm. And I just can't get over my sheer gratitude and shock that someone who barely knows me was so thoughtful to send me something at a time when, let's be honest, I might actually deserve a little pampering.

Moreover, I've been amazed as I've struggled with this pregnancy at how thoughtful others have been. The offers to bring meals and clean my house are not only amazing, but totally unnecessary. I'm still making it to Target at least twice a week, people, so I'm not quite worthy of total assistance. And I must warn you that I'm a very self-reliant person, to the point of stubbornness. I just never feel sick enough or in need enough to merit outside help.

But there is something so comforting and reassuring to know that upstairs/in heaven/yonder someone is sending little promptings to people that I need a little boost. It feels good to know that He cares; that you all care; that I matter. And that this suffering isn't going totally unnoticed.

I just hope that when I'm feeling better I can remember reach out to people the way people have reached out to me. But I'll probably totally botch it and send some lame present or a prepackaged meal involving canned mushrooms. Of course, it's the thought that counts, right?