Grammie, Jichan, and Sendai

This has been a busy week and occasionally, when my days start out to be hectic from the moment my feet hit the floor, I end up putting off my morning prayers until sometimes it is time for evening prayers. I have a testimony that there is power in prayer and Heavenly Father will listen to us no matter where we are or what we have done in this life. I am making prayer a priority in my daily schedule this week - my days are always better when I do. I loved Elder Holland's talk this past General Conference, and his thoughts about prayer after his wife unexpectedly passed away and then became critically ill himself. . .

"I thank all of you and thank my Father in Heaven, who heard your prayers and blessed my life.

Brothers and sisters, I testify that God hears every prayer we offer and responds to each of them according to the path He has outlined for our perfection. I recognize that at roughly the same time so many were praying for the restoration of my health, an equal number—including me—were praying for the restoration of my wife’s health. I testify that both of those prayers were heard and answered by a divinely compassionate Heavenly Father, even if the prayers for Pat were not answered the way I asked. It is for reasons known only to God why prayers are answered differently than we hope—but I promise you they are heard and they are answered according to His unfailing love and cosmic timetable."

Kim and I are back at school for another term. Kim was able to take a block class but I wasn't able to find one with classes I needed to take. I actually considered not taking a class this term, but I have enjoyed the challenge of school and learning, and thought I might really miss it all if I waited until August.

I registered for a Public Speaking class, which is a required course, but much easier without all of the reading and writing that I had to do in my class last term. I love when I can learn things I will use, and this is definitely one that will be helpful in so many ways. Kim is taking Art 125, a creative design class and I know she will do great ~

CONGRATULATIONS KATE!

Kate was one of 18 staff members from the University of Iowa honored with a 2024 Staff Excellence Award!

Kate Allen serves as an instructional service specialist for the photography and 3D design areas in the School of Art and Art History. She plays a crucial part in addressing the technological needs of students, such as dedicating time to mastering tools for the 3D Design discipline and restructuring the 3D Design BFA studio. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Allen collaborated with faculty to revamp the online photography curriculum to ensure students continued to receive a meaningful educational experience and were able to fulfill requirements without lab access. Allen also assumed a leadership role in a school-wide DEI committee, ensuring that the voices of all staff members are heard and represented. YOU GO GIRL! 🏆

HAPPY SWEET 16TH BIRTHDAY, HOLLIE!

Can't believe this sweetie is already 16! She has the kindest heart and the brightest smile. She is doing great in school and is an amazing cook. She spent this weekend with us and she dusted, vacuumed, took Sendai for walks, and even had time to dye her hair 😀. Love you Hollie, and happy birthday on Tuesday 💖

I actually got to touch my sewing machine this week ~ Several weeks ago Eilis brought a dress over that she needed to have altered for her Prom. I had a couple of ideas but the thought of taking apart something so pretty was daunting so I asked Brittany Rigss' mother to come over and help me. She is an amazing seamstress and gave me some good ideas that made it not as hard as I thought it would be. She got sparkly shoes and long black gloves to complete the look - and she looked amazing.

Also got to have lunch with Emma this week. We went to Panera and they finally have their Mexican Corn Chowder again. Yum

Thanks Emma!

Fun surprise of the week - Sammi stopped by one evening with a Panera M&M cookie for Ji-Chan and I. Thanks Sammi! (Please notice who is in the corner eyeing the cookie) 😀

Friday morning Kevin and I traveled up to Denver for an appointment with President Priday, our Temple president. He is just the kindest man. He set us apart as temple workers and we will start next week working the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month. We love being in the Temple and helping the brothers and sisters who come. It is soooo good to be back 💕

SUNDAY SELFIES -