Long day.

I was 18 going on 19 the first time I worked in a restaurant. It was a deli to be specific and I loved it. There were ups and downs of course and some moments I hope never to relive, but overall it was a tremendous growing time in my life and my job seemed to be the vessel God used for that growth.

I'm now working at a deli again. True, it is a far cry from a "restaurant" and the food leaves something to be desired (but that's walmart for you), but again, I'm finding I'm loving my job. I love the people I work with and helping customers and feeding people. I love the multi-tasking and running around, smiling, cleaning, and "cooking". And again, I'm seeing God grow me, gradually, in this place. I'm seeing His word and work in my life coming through and effecting my coworkers. I want to do this forever. Now, not forever in Walmart.... Ideally, Caleb and I would have our own restaurant, but you get the idea. But for now, God has me at this deli in Moberly, MO, and I'm content.

Today was busy. Everyone at work is stressing out because of how busy we've been--trying to get the party trays made up, helping the average amount of customers (and then some, due to holiday shoppers) and trying to pick up the pieces after the dust settles and we're left with what slightly resembles a deli. Everyone is short in temper, with emotions fluctuating with any given comment or customer... It's pretty tense. Today I watched as my coworkers exploded, melted, cried, yelled, and in the end were encouraged, comforted and corrected. From 5am to 2pm, I witnessed God use me, calm me, speak through me and somehow, on 5 hours of sleep, I kept a smile on my face the entire time and was able to help my new friends at work and be God's calming voice in the storm. I think they are seeing Him.... I want them to know him.

Anyway, my husband is beckoning me into the kitchen and threatening me to eat Chinese food with him. Better do what he says.....or else.

Cheers and happy Christmas.