There was some good news this week, including better-than-expected reports on spending by Americans in January and February.

VOA: special.2009.03.13

Back in Manassas, Ian Shaw's volunteer experience was even better than he expected.

VOA: special.2009.04.03

That was a day after it announced better-than-expected earnings.

VOA: special.2009.04.17

Mr.Obama mentions the better-than-expected data in his address, and says reforming health care is a pillar for future growth and prosperity.

VOA: standard.2009.08.08

Despite those tensions, Mr.Karzai was full of praise on Saturday for the new U.S.strategy, saying it turned out better than he expected.

VOA: standard.2009.03.28