Last Spring Break, my family and I headed an hour and a half away to The Pioneer Woman’s mercantile and lodge in Pawhuska, Oklahoma. This was such a special trip for my kids because they’ve basically grown up watching The Pioneer Woman on the Food Network Channel – thanks to my mom who introduced me to Ree’s blog, recipes, books, photography, and cooking show.

When my babies were all five and under, you can imagine how evening time was- scrambling to get hungry bellies fed and managing multiple meltdowns. I often felt like pulling my hair out! While I cooked dinner, I’d often turn on The Pioneer Woman and they were instantly captivated. I loved it because not only did they enjoy learning about life on the Drummond Ranch and watching Lad and Ree’s four kids, but they learned cooking skills too! Now they’re all ten and under and have a true desire to be in the kitchen with me and it’s so helpful.

When we set foot at the Mercantile and lodge, their little hearts beat with joy. What they’d seen on TV for so many years was now a reality. Naturally, they wanted every Charlie stuffed animal, book, toy, and trinket in sight. When we arrived at the lodge, they ran and played at their heart’s content.

There were many things I loved about our visit, but perhaps most of all, I was inspired how the Drummond’s have opened up their lives, land, work, passions, talents, and more for others to enjoy and benefit from. They have given themselves away in a sense through multiple avenues. They haven’t hoarded those gifts and talents they’ve been entrusted with, but have used them to the fullest. Their hard work has paid off in so many ways.

As a wife and mom it’s made me think about what I need to “give away” in my own life. How am I using my talents and abilities to make my little world a better place for others right here? The Drummond’s- like my family- live in a small, rural community (in the middle of nowhere) yet they’re doing BIG things right where they live. Perhaps there’s something inside all of us that desires to make a big impact in our every day lives. I know I do.

So I’ll ask you too. How would your world look different if you viewed everything you’ve been entrusted with – your resources, talents, time, wealth, abilities and more to serve others? Do you believe that your ordinary life could be extraordinary? Do you believe that your greatest joys could come from releasing control and being willing to use your gifts to their fullest potential?

Chances are good, someone needs you exactly for who YOU are.

Thank you, Drummond Family for being you, and for blessing so many people. I’m planning to return with my mom soon and stand in line for lunch!