It was going to be a busy day, so I was hurrying around during The Prince's nap to get ready.

Now, what is one of the worst things Mommy can hear during Baby's nap? The doorbell. And the fearsome guard dog reacting to the doorbell.

I got the dog quieted and edged around her to open the door. The new neighbor was standing there, holding jumper cables (Our interactions with this neighbor have been limited to introductions and silent grumbling at their dog's "packages" left on the shared front lawn).

She says "Our battery's dead, can you help us?" I think "No. I don't want to. I'm in a terrible hurry, and I don't want to leave my sleeping baby alone in the house. Arg, really? Lord, do you want me to do this? Well, how many times have I needed jumped, and I was at the mercy of coworkers and a rescuing hubby? Answer: too many. Sigh. OK." Out loud, I say "All right, give me a few minutes."

I finished applying my mascara, threw on jeans and a sweatshirt, and tried to sneak out without disturbing the guard dog.

The neighbor's mysterious grandson appeared briefly, then disappeared, leaving the lady and myself. That's ok, I've got lots of practice with this.

I wedged my car in next to the handicapped spot, and she very carefully popped her hood. Her dog helped. I searched for the hooky to undo her hood. For future reference, in mid-decadeish grey Ford Explorer-types, it's in the front grille.

Popped the hood ("Red to red, black to black!" Really? Thanks. Got it.), attached the cables, instructed her what to do, turned on my car. Her engine roared to life. I told her to keep the car running to recharge, and swiftly unhooked the cables and drove my car back to it's spot. Ran into the house, and The Prince is still sleeping soundly.

I'm sort of repulsed at myself for hesitating, not only because of the holiday season, and my beliefs, but because I actually prayed a few days ago for God to use me. As I was praying, I hesitated. Did I really want to ask for this? This was bound to bring challenges my way, calls to step outside my comfort zone. So, when my prayer was answered, why did I not jump at the chance?

So, I'm learning. And trying to embrace the challenges.