As my younger daughter and I hauled the collection up from its storage place this time around, I was stunned by its significance. In our entryway I organized the most beautiful mound of diapers and formula for a suitable picture, fully amazed at what can be accomplished when people find a cause so worthy. I struggle to find words to express my gratitude in grand enough terms. Please look at – study – the pictures. Your involvement in this project, whether big or small, has literally saved lives in Juarez, Mexico. Standing among the stacks of supplies, I felt so grateful for all that was collected in such a short amount of time—and more humbled than ever before.
 
Every donation comes with a story. I received a handwritten note last week from a woman I’ve never met who learned of the project recently and was waiting for her next social security check so she could contribute. She had enclosed a check and apologized for the small amount, wishing it was more. I promptly bawled. I want to be more like her, to exhibit such incredible generosity in spirit and in action. Friends and strangers make occasional contributions to the load, both big and small. Valor Christian High School’s basketball program gave diapers and formula for the second year in a row. A friend’s friend’s small group gave diapers and formula in lieu of doing a traditional Christmas exchange. My folks’ church participated in Advent Conspiracy last month and they gave money to buy diapers and formula in lieu of traditional store-bought gifts in the names of friends and family. Our neighbor from up the street has recently dropped off huge amounts of supplies twice, attempting to do it anonymously. A friend of mine from Bible study just mentioned she and her husband have all they possibly need for their soon-to-arrive baby, and she wants her upcoming shower to instead shower the babies of Juarez.
 
Some days I wonder if I can hold any more gratitude, you have overwhelmed and blessed me so!
 
This is the first time all three of my kids have been on hand to help load the missionary’s truck with supplies. They have all owned this project for themselves and pray faithfully for people to continue giving. To watch them so full of joy, with giant smiles on their faces, carry load after load of diapers and formula to the truck, all three of them knowing firsthand the people who would receive help that very next day—I wonder, is there a better day for a mother like me? A few times they even shouted out, “This is so much fun!”
 
My kids stand in the pantry to choose an after-school snack from an embarrassing amount of options. Children in Juarez are lucky to get one meal a day. Many babies in Juarez go unnamed for months because there’s such a high likelihood they won’t live to see a first birthday. I need to be grateful at every turn for not only all that I’ve been given in this life, but for every chance I’m given to help a person who needs it.
 
A little over a year ago God asked me to start this project, and I have to tell you it’s already been the journey of a lifetime. I am living proof that obedience to God is the key to joy and purpose. I’m humbled by what saying yes has unfolded. It’s my great privilege to stand back and watch him work through you.
 
It is a gift to serve with you. Thank you so very much…
Quinn
 
PS: I want you all to know load number 12 began just hours after load 11 left our home. My friend Julie has exceptional timing!