Everything's amazing.

see latest photoshare post for explanation of title.

1. Sisters. Last night I had the opportunity to participate in an "introduction to Relief Society" for the graduating Laurels. When I walked in one of the three young women who I used to have the pleasure of teaching said, "Sister Runyan?! Are you going to talk or something?" when I responded "Yes" She said "YES!" and I got big smiles from the other two. How sweet is that?!?! I my mind, having a couple of 18 year old girls say they're excited to listen to you is a pretty big complement! It really was a treat to share my testimony of the Relief Society program with these sweet sisters. I'm so fortunate to call them my friends.

2. Hope, faith, and work. I agree with the comments and jokes made by the comedian in my photoshare video post- a little humbling ang gratitude is important. In these "turbulant and difficult times" though I'm also thankful to be reminded that if we turn off all the negative feed and instead turn to hope, faith and some hard work, we can get through all of this. I really do believe that. In Stake Conference our President Hughes (an amazing man) reminded us that the Lord does send trials, but that he sends them to strengthen us, and that despite trials that may come, the Lord does want us to be joyful and happy. WE ARE MEANT TO BE HAPPY! We are meant to be blessed.

3. Scripture study. I'm trying to finish up the Old Testament, which is the hardest book of Scripture for me to study. I have a deep love for the Book of Mormon, The New Testament, and the Pearl of Great Price, and I think the D&C is pretty insightful and interesting as well- but the Old Testament is hard for me. Anyway, I've been making a renewed effort lately- and have been getting a lot more out of it. Yesterday I was reading the last chapters of Amos and comparing some of it to our nation and days. Then today I read the book of Jonah and was realizing how much I didn't know of this Bible story I thought I knew really well. I thought it was intersting that the people of Ninevah (and the others on the boat) actually listened to Jonah, and how funny that Jonah got upset that his prophesies against Ninevah didn't come true when the people humbled themselves... anyway- its nice to see I can enjoy it when I really pay attention.