There is nothing more fun than watching a 4 year old entertain himself.  These little beings are so energized and in tune with themselves.  They do not worry about what others think or how silly they may look.  They can make a game out of nothing. And while they play with the world around them, their presence is uplifting.  Evan, Arla’s 4-year-old grandson, challenged his grandma to say words today to give him commands.  Arla was successful with saying a version of “turn” and “jump”.  Evan was more than willing to attempt whatever word Grandma could make.

The next game was one where Arla and Mary Ann sang and Evan left the room if he did not like the song.  He only liked “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.”  All the others sent him out of the room.  After a while, Arla was more interested in following Evan’s movements than singing, but it was all worthwhile play time.  Everyone was giggling and smiling and having fun.  It was a good time.  And the biggest laugh was when Evan gave Grandma a look at his behind.  You have to know Evan.  At home, he thinks it is funny to “show you his butt.” So he must feel at home with Grandma because she got a look today.  She laughed out loud. The visit ended with high fives and I love you.

Arla is present in her body and in her mind.  We want to ask, why would God allow this stroke to occur.  Why would God take a woman who always loved people and talked to them and make her unable to speak and get around?  These questions are not for us to ask.  We must move forward with the faith that God is in control.  And we must see that life is still a blessing everyday.  Life, in a very strange way, feels normal again.  It is a new normal.  We laugh with Arla and spend time together.  We find new ways to have fun and communicate.

Pray for continued improvement and strength.  The road is long and the journey is hard.  But our God is with us.  He has shown His mercy over and over.  Thank God for all he does each day… great and small.

We have been lax in our blogging.  Our mind for prayer and commitment to the updates got weary.  We are renewing our personal strength and conviction to be a blessing through this blog.  More updates and prayer requests to follow.  And again, thanks for loving Arla!!!!!  It means the world.