his name means happy

four-year-old friend asher's name means happy. and it's fitting. when he thinks you absolutely have to hear what's on his mind, he jumps around & yells your name til you're paying attention. when he needs a hug, he enthusiastically goes for it. if he wants to go camping, he invites you along & says we'll roast marshmallows & play games (& watch a movie?? :) ...when he wants to download game apps on your phone, he acts like it'll be the highlight of his year. he laughs at every joke, especially his own, & he even likes to explain jokes so everyone can fully join in. (ie. sister ellie says "why didn't the orange make it across the street?" answer: "he ran out of juice" ... asher laughs heartily, then explains "the juice was the gas, get it?"... then laughs heartily again.)

i love his happiness (& inexplicably contagious laughter), the ready affection, & growing heart for other people- during family prayer time, asher is bent on remembering haiti & chile. did i mention he's four. may God increase his compassion for the world & preserve his cheerful spirit.