Good News

Before leaving on vacation I paid a visit to a new friend of mine who has just been diagnosed with liver cancer.  During our vacation we learned of the untimely passing of my cousin, who ultimately lost his battle with cancer.  His wife died a few years ago from a brain tumor, and has therefore relegated the role of guardianship of his two children to one of my siblings.  When I came back I received an email about a phenomenal father and husband in our previous ward who died suddenly of a heart attack, leaving three young children and a devoted wife behind.  

I could go on and on about all the bad news I’ve been privy to in the last few weeks, but I don’t want to and I don’t think you’re interested.  Everywhere I go I’m hearing about the tough economy, unemployment, death, abuse, marital strife, etc.  I don’t take any of it lightly, but that’s precisely the problem.  I need a break.  Surely, amid all the angst and confusion of the difficult things that are happening, somebody, somewhere, has to be having a good day.  Are you one of them?  I want to know, what good news do you have to share?  Have you completed a goal?  Taken a bath uninterrupted?  Read a book that inspired you?  Found a killer bargain?  Scored a buy one get one free Hostess cupcake?  I want the comments on this post to be dedicated 100% to good news.  You are the star.  Take the stage!

47 Responses to “Good News”

  1. I just had 3 of the best weeks of my life. :) First week, girl’s camp. Which I LOVE and am always confused by those who don’t. My cup was filled and I got to hang out with some amazing people! Second week I had family in town and one night me and two sister stayed up until 5 AM chatting. :) Then last week my family went to DC to visit my sister and be a tourist. DC rocks!! The Smithsonian ROCKS!! I didn’t see Owen Wilson or Brundon (and I looked!) but it was all so wonderful. :)

  2. jessicaL says:

    Yesterday, I got an 8 pack of pencils at Staples for 1 penny. (And a ream of Staples copy paper, but there’s a rebate associated with it, so it’s less exciting…) I also got a few 70-page spiral bound notebooks for 15 cents each at Walmart. Most people don’t like thinking about school starting again and love the summer… Me? Well, we currently have 42 days, 19 hours, 37 minutes and 20 seconds until school starts. (Not that I’m counting or anything…)

  3. Azca says:

    I just found out this morning that I’m going to be an aunt!! Our son is the only baby on both sides of the family so we’re all thrilled that he’s finally going to get a cousin!

  4. amilialyn says:

    I am going to get an ultrasound today. I am having a girl! Well, they haven’t told me that yet, but I know it is a girl. I will have one of each now. So super excited. Can’t wait to play with the bows and frilly dresses, and not have to worry about having church appropriate clothes for my child because just about all dresses are appropriate for church! So stinking happy. AND, I have a clean bedroom. AND all my laundry has been washed, AND my mother is coming over to watch my son while I go to get the ultrasound and she is a champion clothes folder, so I have a feeling that when I get home today, I won’t have to fold any clothes, which I hate doing almost more than anything else in the world. It is a fantastic day!

  5. fletchmb says:

    I read a fantastic book recently! It’s called The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. It’s a lovely, lovely book–the kind you can recommend to friends and to your mother-in-law. (And I have!)

  6. impressiveart says:

    I served as a volunteer yesterday at the new Oquirrh Mountain temple open house. My husband and I were privileged to be the hosts in one of the sealing rooms. We were able to explain to people what it means to be sealed as a family and share how that knowledge has blessed our lives. I know God lives and that his spirit was present in that sealing room. I could see in so many faces, face of members of our church and other who were not, they were feeling His spirit and His love. The spirit and the obvious influence that it had on the guests in the Temple was overwhelming. God lives and families can be together forever. And that truth seems too simple when we have lost a loved one and have to face many long days without them. It may seem simple and trite when we are suffering, but it is true. And that is what the Gospel of Jesus Christ is about.

  7. momnstuff says:

    I am finishing a glorious season as the Primary president of our ward. Now I will move into a new a different season, which will include attending Relief Society with our 18-year-old daughter.

    Also, our entire family went to the midnight showing of Harry Potter last night. Very unimportant–but so fun!

  8. fitzmom says:

    My life has would fit in with what you are tired of hearing about…However, I want to tell you that life is still good. I have a wonderful family and I love them very much. Blessings are coming daily from our trials. Today has been a good day…Started out going to the temple and had an enjoyable experience. I just love having a place to go where I can leave my worries outside. I then went to Weight Watchers and found out that I lost 2 more lbs. Today, while in a very simple way, has been a good day.

  9. AmandaW says:

    My 11 month old daughter Julia took her first steps the other day – such a fun thing to watch! She was so proud of herself and so am I!

  10. mysuestories says:

    I got to go to work ’cause I was healthy enough. My kids got to run around all day becuase they could. My hubby worked today because he, too, is fortunate to have a job in today’s economic downfall. So yeah, life isn’t ALL roses, but you have to be grateful for what you DO have!

  11. janet rife says:

    I’m happy because I can read the scriptures every morning and feel God’s love and regain my eternal perspective for the day. And I’m happy because I just planted some more flowers in my garden. And I’m happy that I get to visit YW Camp today with my dear husband (the bishop) and I LOVE Camp Shalom. And I’m happy you reminded us to remember all the reasons we have to be happy.

  12. Kelly M says:

    I just read good news from 10 people that made me smile! And, in 3 days I’m leaving the blazing AZ heat and visiting family in Utah for 2 weeks- that’s fabulous news to me. And my husband left his wallet at home when he went to work today so the kids and I got to meet him half way to give it to him. . . which means I got to see him in the middle of the day! Even with 4 (not always so happy in the car) kids in tow, seeing his face always lifts me. It’s a good day.

  13. abish32 says:

    My son sent a text message from EFY–”I’m doin amazing.” This is extremely good news because he never, ever speaks in that tone, nor does he text in that tone. He’s a good kid, but very quiet and keeps all his emotions totally in check. So for him to say he’s doing “amazing,” is a huge thing. All last night and all day today, I could feel the joy inside as I thought of how his week is going.

  14. spicy1921 says:

    I broke out the double stroller, buckled in the kiddies and rollerbladed a few kilometers to immunizations and walked back. Loved the craving for more exercise and sunshine. Happy day today :)

  15. mimi says:

    I’m pregnant and that is a miracle. My baby is growing and THAT is a miracle. My husband and I both have jobs and are currently living happily ever after.

  16. NaomiMiles says:

    I won tickets to a concert in Kew Gardens at the weekend!

  17. Lisa says:

    I have five healthy, funny, smart kids! Margaret finally learned how to walk! After 14 years of marriage (four degrees, five children, six moves, six pregnancies and creative budgeting for 14 years), I still love my husband!

    My sister-in-law and her husband survived a plane crash and they’re alive and doing really, really well and 11 months ago we didn’t think they’d be alive, let alone raising their four kids, but they are! After questioning “why?” we all have renewed testimonies of the Gospel and a love for each other, despite everything.

  18. Kristy says:

    I had to go to Wal Mart today to return some stuff. Three of the most horrific words in the English language: Wal-Mart Customer Service. Or is that technically 4 words? Anyway, when I got there there was NOBODY ELSE in line! Can you believe it? First person in line. Miraculous.

  19. darngarns says:

    I haven’t had to do laundry for over 2 weeks-my sweet hubby is doing it all for me!!

  20. rachey says:

    I get to stay home with my little boy now and am absolutely loving it! The only downside? I can’t be a young mom with a young baby forever, and I hate that.

  21. beckilou says:

    I’m having a girl baby! And today my sister-in-law visited me at BYU and purchased me a cookies and cream ice cream cone.

  22. jesska says:

    My husband just found a job so we will be able to eat more than mac & cheese for dinner once again! Hooray to that.

  23. artigas says:

    I have fallen in love with texting. Who would of thought!

  24. rocslinger says:

    I got a phone call today. I’m enrolled in a CDOT training program that lasts six weeks. At the end of the program CDOT will try to place me with one of the construction crews.

    P.S. I’ll be the one leaning on the shovel, honk as you drive by.

  25. staigerfamily says:

    Thank you so much for such a wonderful idea. I absolutely LOVED reading all these comments. And seriously needed to step back and think about the wonderful things in my life. I am finally starting my own preschool, we have moved to a much smaller house that is WAY easier to clean, and there are TONS of kids in the new neighborhood–in and out of my house constantly–which I totally love! My husband will start a new career fulfilling his dream of being a teacher in four weeks. . . and we’ll get sweet vacation days together! Life IS good.

  26. LeonaBea says:

    Had a few minutes to myself today and decided to try on dresses – haven’t bought one in a LONG time. I found one that fit amazingly and made me smile so much that I had to walk out of the dressing room to check me out in the bigger mirrors. While I was admiring myself, 3 other customers told me how good the dress looked on me.

    Better part: It was missing 2 buttons, and the two belt holders were pulled out of the seam. I got it for an additional 20% off of the already 30% off sale price. Not too shabby!

  27. Thora says:

    I just got back from a great trip visiting family in Utah with my two girls, which included a trip to Yellowstone Park for a family reunion. I’d never been to Yellowstone, and I went to college at BYU, so I got to see a lot of my old college friends who are still around the area. It was great! And now I’m back at home, with my husband again, which is also great, and I’m not a single parent while visiting anymore, which is also great. Plus they are actually sleeping normal schedules again, because I’m not trying to visit every person I’ve ever met every day.

    And today we got a new monitor, because our old one was blinking off every ten seconds or so. And it’s a huge flat one (by our ancient, huge, but not wide, just in depth monitor standards), AND it was on sale, with a mail in rebate too. Nothing huge, but it sure is nice to type this comment while I can see it!

  28. summertime says:

    I am trying to make some extra money by making cakes. Today I was working on some fondant Transformers details for a birthday cake. It is the first time I have really done that sort of thing and it turned out fabulously well! I am flying by the seat of my pants a bit because I don’t have near the number of tools that I need or all the skills I should, but Heavenly Father is helping me along by boosting my inspiration.

    I have a son who tells me I am beautiful no matter what, even though I can’t afford makeup or highlights now or in the near future.

    The other day I went to buy some new jeans because one of the 2 pairs that I have were becoming transparent in embarrassing spots. I found a pair that fit really well on the sales rack 50% off and then there was an announcement over the intercom that all sales items were an extra 25% off. What a blessing.

  29. kri55ten says:

    My husband and I had to drive up to Cincinnati (2 hrs away) so I got a babysitter for our 2 kids. That drive alone, with no screaming or fighting, was HEAVENLY!!!!!

  30. Carlimac says:

    My son just left the MTC and arrived in CO on his mission Mon. I got a wonderful call this evening from a woman who had just fed him!!! She said he looks happy and healthy. Also said he has a GREAT companion and a terrific mission president. Not much better news than that for a mom to get.

  31. jennie w. says:

    I tried a new chocolate cake recipe and it was so good I almost cried.

    I took five of my children (ages 3-12) to Target and Petsmart today without swearing under my breath to NEVER do it again. Everyone behaved themselves (pretty much).

    I found a great new color of lipstick.

  32. elliotts mom says:

    I’ve lost 25 lbs over the last 4 months. I’ve worked really hard and I’m really proud of myself.

  33. Susan says:

    Last week, my 3 1/2 year old son got his first two-wheeler (technically, with training wheels). Today I took him to Target and he wanted to get a bell to put on the handlebars. He instantly choose the one that says “I [heart] My Mom” on it. He would not even consider buying a different one. He loves me and he wants the world to know it!

  34. ginnyhale says:

    * I FINALLY found a large pink piggy bank at Target.
    * I caught my first fish ever this year- Halibut
    * Corban hasn’t peed off the roof in a week
    * I discovered the family history archives on familysearch.org
    * I ate McDonalds last night and it didn’t make me sick
    * My garden is HUGE in the Alaskan summer sun
    * I hiked Crazy Mountain and didn’t die
    * My son turned twelve and was ordained a deacon- He was so excited he said- I had my interview with the bishop and he told me I was worthy to receive the priesthood!
    * I made three of the most adorable aprons ever yesterday!(if you want to see them check my blog at seekingsunlight.blogspot.com)
    * I am on the second week of p90x and feeling great
    * We were able to pay off three major debts this month

    Thanks Kristy! What a wonderful idea.


  35. [...] timing Kristy has on seeking for good news. Because I have just gotten the news I’ve been waiting for. My book is on the shelves at [...]

  36. Sherise says:

    I finished my first bike race, and my kids passed to the next level of swimming lessons. Life is good.

  37. Sircooper says:

    I am married to most awesome person ever with 2 cool kids. I hope everyone can feel the same way.

  38. kirsta says:

    Reading these made my day.
    My four-year-old boy tells me, “you’re pushin’ too hard!” when I want him to clean and it cracks me up.
    My eight year old daughter has read at least one book a day this summer.
    My baby is turning one on Sunday.
    My husband hasn’t had an income in the last year and somehow our bank account has as much money in it now as it did last year…weird. But very cool.

  39. sickalapick says:

    i am right there with ya on the bad news scale – it’s about time we talk about the GOOD things happening in our lives! So here goes…

    My oldest just got home from Girls Camp in one piece and laughing!
    My second oldest went boating/tubing and LOVED it! (major fear of the water-he conquered his fear)
    My middle kiddo told me I looked saxy (uh I think she meant sexy) in my swimsuit! (sigh…we need to talk)
    My second youngest rode his bike today without his training wheels! woot woot!
    My baby (9 months) stood up in the middle of the family room and we all screamed for joy!!!!

    Life is good and I can’t complain one bit! I have a wonderful family, great friends and after reading everyones posts – I am sure grateful for all the simple things in life! Thanks everyone!

  40. nicole4077 says:

    I got an e mail on Tuesday that the sweet sandals I tried all summer not to buy and finally just bought so I could sleep at night are in the mail and I may get them as early as FridaY!!!

  41. nicole4077 says:

    HEY, who is ginnyhale? I am in Alaska too!

  42. Sarie says:

    I loved reading all of these! I’m a huge fan of this site anyway, and this was a great idea!

    I just started my own photo business. It’s scary and stressful, but I really did it.

  43. Kerri says:

    My 12 year old daughter and I joined a very inexpensive gym and have 5 days of workouts under our belts. I can already feel a difference in my back pain level – much better. We got 2 free personal trainer sessions, too! Loving it. And I love my job and the people I work with every day.

  44. GenealogyGrammy says:

    This has been a week of special happinesses. My 4 oldest grandchildren loved EFY and wished it was longer than a week. Our 5th granddaughter is in the finals of a singing contest where she competed against all ages, and won at 10 years old! Our grandson is submitting his mission papers. My husband is taking unemployment better than I ever thought he could. He’s worked full-time for 50 years and hadn’t planned to stop anytime soon. And the best part is that after a near-fatal heart attack 3 years ago, I’m still here to be thankful for so much happiness in my life every day.

  45. Kristy says:

    I’m so stoked that you guys got into this. P.S. Dear “Sircooper” – I know where you live. Wanna go out sometime? I hear you look hot in a wetsuit….

  46. Carly Noel says:

    I came out of the bathroom yesterday after getting ready for the day to find my nephew standing there.
    I said, “How do I look, Max?”
    He said, “Gooooood. Carwee, you smell like a pink fruit roll-up.”

    Kids are honest. So good news is, I honestly smell good.

  47. annab says:

    I got a raise at work. Hallelujah. And that same work sent me on a trip across the country (always fun) and after working I got to go ride terrifying rollercoasters (I paid, but still the point is I got to GO!!). Amazing.

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