A Necessary Evil

Every spring I mourn as I prune my raspberry stalks and my rose bushes. Even though I know I am doing the right thing and the best thing for them, I struggle to not feel sorrow as I cut of the growing parts of the plant.
It makes me think that Heavenly Father probably feels similar things when we are being "pruned". He knows we will be stronger, happier and more successful if we choose to grow through it. I'm sure he has moments of quiet encouragement talking us through the difficult patches and then takes a relieved breath when we begin to thrive again.

Ryan's Faith

Last summer I bought Ryan an Adidas exercise outfit (jacket and pants) from costco which he loved. Sometime in the fall he lost the jacket. I searched high and low, cleaned out closets and under beds, checked the school and church lost and found, etc.
I decided it was long gone and not to worry about it anymore.
Last Thursday something Ryan remembered that it was missing and started lamenting again. I told him it was gone but smiled that night as he prayed specifically that he would find his blue jacket with the three white stripes down the arms.
After that I'll admit I totally forgot about it.
Yesterday afternoon there was a knock on the door, Ryan answered it to find Sean and Warren holding his jacket.
I reminded Ryan of his prayer and thanked the boys for being an answer to that prayers.
Ryan is such an example of faith. He was not even surprised when the boys showed up at our door, pleased, but not surprised. He's such a good boy.

Karate Belt Promotion

This weekend Ryan and Isabelle each earned a new belt in karate. They were very excited especially because they earned a medal for doing chores at home. Grandpa Allen joined me in cheering them on. Good job, guys!