My mom took all the kids except Ian and watched them from 1:00 -3:00 while I painted on the mural today.  Ian was an angel while I was painting- he jumped in his bouncy seat and cooed pretty much the whole time.  When the kids got back to me I decided to continue painting for another hour.    I wanted to get as much done as possible before putting up.   I managed to get a lot done, and the kids were having fun running around and playing.   
 
A heavyset man probably in his 50's with a gray beard and mustache came walking along while I was painting, and asked me how it was coming along.  I told him it was going good so far.    He told me that he thought I was doing a great job, and that I was a good mother.    He then put his arm around me and prayed outloud for me and the kids  - that was unexpected!     He prayed for my encouragement and for a lot of other things I can't remember.   The part I focused on was encouragement.  (I seem to be needing that a lot this week. God knew.)    Then he walked away.     

About  5 minutes later, he walked back by, opened his wallet, and gave me $25.00.   He said that he didn't know whether I was being paid for the mural or not, but regardless he wanted to give me something to show his appreciation.  I told him he didn't have to do it - he said, "I know I don't, but I want to!"   He told me he thought it was really beautiful to look at.   I thanked him, and he left again.  

I have to tell you, his words and actions did go a long way towards encouraging me today.