When life gives you berries...

This is a family vacation with the Cheneys in Cascade Idaho. We picked berries...

It has been some time since I have written. In my efforts to be productive after Annie left, I out did myself. The cobwebs and dust have been flying as I immerse myself into all kinds of memorizing. Not only am learning Spanish but am serving as an Ordinance Worker in the Mesa Temple. I'm certain that the temple will be a peaceful sanctuary again someday but for now there is so much to learn! As for my Spanish...I can ask you your name, where you live, numbers, how to ask for and tell time and all about the verb "ser". This is going to take a long time!

It feels like peace and turmoil are at odds more often lately. Current economic and personal challenges have a domino effect and it seems to be touching everyone. So everyday I remind myself that I am equal to the challenges, allowing my faith to dominate my fear and worry. This reminder is my gift to my family and to myself. Living by true principles allows me to act and not be acted upon.

We had some time with our family at the ranch for Labor Day weekend. I planted blackberries three years ago and have had almost no harvest. Much to my delight on Saturday morning my son asked me if the berries were edible... I thought "berries?" Do I have berries? Silly Brad, I plant everything knowing Cole will try to eat it! So I had great fun harvesting the ripe berries with my grandkids. Most wanted to pick them but did not want to step into the dirt and get their feet dirty...who are these kids?

My prayers to all those who struggle with what tomorrow may bring... Remind yourself of what you simply can't lose and then all the rest just doesn't matter.

I am reminded of a saying I learned from a branch member:

Caras vemos, corazones no sabamos! (We can see your face but cannot know your heart) It reminds me of the verse in a hymn - "In the quiet heart is hidden sorrows that the eye can't see". May you have strength against this day...and tomorrow too.

Mucho Amor...Christi/Mom/Grandma/Friend