Stephanie and John

 John and Stephanie are a mother/son in our ward that we have enjoyed getting to know. Spencer is John's Young Men's president and Stephanie used to be Ellie's primary teacher. They are two of the most caring people we have met. They love our little family and do so many great things for us. Every Sunday, John comes to say hello and gives everyone hugs. He loves the kids and they love him right back. Ayden wrote a story about how John is one of his best friends. It was the cutest thing! Ellie loves Stephanie and can't get enough of her hugs and sitting with her during Sacrament meeting. Even Tate, who is usually more picky about who he will go to, loves John and Stephanie. They always bring a juicebox for Tate because they know he loves juice! John helps me to the car with all the kids and stuff (because Spencer is usually in a meeting) and makes sure to ask if there is anything he can do for us.
I have been so impressed with what a good, strong example John is for my children particularly, Ayden. Ayden watches how he prepares the Sacrament and blesses it, and often we remind him how hard John works to make good choices. One of the hardest things about our move to Alabama has been the lack of friends for Ayden. We have watched him these past months and know how badly he misses his friends in Utah. He was close with them and he had good examples to follow. So it has been relief to our worried parent hearts to see him become close with John and make a connection.And seeing how close John is to his mother makes me respect Stephanie even more. She has done wonderful things because John has become a great young man.
 Last night we went to the home for FHE. John had prepared a lesson about Nephi's bow which included a puppet show for the kids. Tate was completely enthralled! After the lesson, he brought out bows he had made for the kids, even Taters got one. They loved it! We played a game and had treats and then spent some time just talking. We truly enjoyed our evening with them. I am so grateful for people the Lord puts in our lives. I know he knows who we need to help us along way. I know John and Stephanie are two such people. I hope we can be, even in a small way, for them what they have been for us.
*my camera is charging so I will post pictures of the kids with their bows later*