From Dad February 8, 2015

Dear Riley:

I got home at around 3:00 on a Sunday afternoon and knew I'd be writing you, but Leadelle encouraged me to eat something first since I hadn't eaten anything since Saturday evening.  I guess I just make things look and smell good.  Just as soon as I started sauteing onions for an omelet, the kids started hovering.  So, I added two more onions, and things just snow balled from there.  An hour and a half (and four omelets) later I'm finally sitting down to my own omelet stuffed with sauteed onions, sauteed mushrooms, and fresh tomatoes with a hint of balsamic vinegar.  Truly delicious!  But now I'm racing to get a letter out before going over to Grandma Parish's house for the birthday bash.  Can't remember the last time I was able to do something like this on a Sunday.  The kids just loved it, and I enjoyed the family time.  Amazing what happens when you turn your ringer off for a few hours. 

The weather has been incredibly warm, more like late march or April.  A week or two of this and I may be growing apricots and rhubarb.  Crocus are already on their way and I'm feeling driven by the gardening and pruning.  First things first though.  I'm nearly done with the garage shelves and they look great.  I took advantage of good weather and no pressing Bishop's demands yesterday to really make some significant progress.  Then, on to the storage room, craft room, bedrooms, window mill work, interior doors, painting, closet organizers...

I've had some great experiences as Bishop this past week.  There is such a difference between those who offer lip service about making life changes and those who are truly penitent and filled with Godly sorrow.  One thing that impressed me was the love God has for the repentant soul.  I know you'll see examples of both while in the field and It can be difficult to know a course of action until you are able to contrast the two.  One, the individual is filled with testimony, resolve, and spirit.  The other, feels lifeless and void of depth or feeling.  I don't know if this comes across in the way I wish to convey.  It's just gratifying to see the atonement truly work in someone's life and to feel God's love for an individual returning to the path they left.  Well, got to run.  I'll try to write more later this evening, but if I don't make it, know I love you so much and am so pleased you're serving.  Till next time!

Love, 

Dad