I want to give thanks for everyday miracles, big and small.

Yesterday was sunny. Sunny is a big deal in Lithuania. The temps are still just below freezing, sometimes a little above, 28-40 degrees F. But with sun out it's all better and I enjoy it. We all do.

It used to be dark when kids got picked up for school at 7:45, and when they came back at little after 4 pm. Now it's broad daylight. Glorious and victorious! We've conquered a brutal Northern European winter!

Yesterday I got to visit with Nadia's English teacher for the Parent-Teacher Conference and it was a good visit. I am proud of my girl. Too bad she's putting her all into this IB program when we don't know if she can continue with it next year at an American High School. But her time-management and research skills will stay with her and I hope she'll use them in college.

After Nadia's appointment with Mrs. Segedy we proceeded to the school library for David's Parent-Student Conference. It's the same as Parent-Teacher thing, only David himself was talking about his progress. I am impressed by this kid. He has caught up with Math and Social Studies (his weak areas last year), and has been having consistent 7's (equivalent to A's). He needs a little improvement in English and Science. He is also taking Russian, Lithuanian, Music, Art and PE. His Art teacher thinks he is a fantastic artist, she invited him to join the after-school Art club on Tuesdays, and he seems to enjoy that a lot. He also has one of the lead roles in the school play Into the Woods. They are performing this Friday and Saturday. And did I mention his Rubik's cube skills? Like. A. Boss! If Nadia is my joy, he is definitely my pride.

I was glad to talk to Scott yesterday. He is in Germany. We are trying to get out of the Army. It's a long story and I am still too vulnerable to write it out. I pray for strength for him and for us every single day. Last night's scripture study was so comforting. It talked about Alma helping his people to escape the bondage of Amulon and safely arrive in Zarahemla. I so want this to be our story. I so want to be free from our "bondage." Meanwhile, I do feel how the Lord is visiting us in our afflictions. How our burdens are being made light for us to bear.