The PA Brand

Pictures for the Grandparents

2012-01-19T15:58:00.007-07:00

Playing in the dirt with Brigham
Hanging out with dad

Early in the morning, helping mom get kids ready for school

Playing with Bennett in his bed

Emmaline and Madaline taking a sunday nap together

tummy time

Loving her sippy cup!

"Please dad, let me have some"

Another Birthday for Brigham

2012-01-15T22:21:00.004-07:00

LAS CRUCES- Brigham Flake Parry turned 7 years old today. To kick of his birthday celebration, Brigham opened one present before church. It was a Scooby Doo movie. Following three hours of religious excitement with his local LDS congregation at church, Brigham enjoyed a much anticipated birthday nap with the rest of his family. At 5:30 pm, Mountain Standard Time, the Papa Murphey's pizza's came out of the oven and Brigham preceded to feast on his requested first supper as a 7 year old. In attendence at this event was Brigham's Aunt Caitlin and Uncle Micheal as well as close family friends Bro. and Sister Jeff and Marleena Mann. Brigham's parents and siblings were also counted among the party participants. Cheers and song followed dinner and preceded the opening of birthday presents. Brigham opened several more presesnts to his delight. Party patrons endured one more rendition of the traditional Happy Birthday Chorus followed by Brigham blowing/ spitting all over the race track cake made my his mother Amy. Brigham wishes to express gratitude to all who have made his 7th birthday such a memorable occasion.

Samuels Hobby....one of many

2012-01-09T19:41:00.004-07:00

Since we were married Samuel has worked on leather. This past year we were finally able to get a leather sewing machine that has taken Samuels projects to a whole new level. For Christmas Samuel made vests for the kids.

Birthday cakes

2012-01-07T14:35:00.009-07:00

2009-Semi truck ---Many things I would do different looking back, oh well

Brighams cake in 2008- Candy Land

brighams sccoby doo cake 2011

Every year growing up my mother always made us the most beautiful birthday cakes. So, when I had my own kids I wanted to carry over this tradition. It has been fun and challenging in many ways. I always wonder how I am going to "pull it off " when they ask for certain cakes. The cakes are far from perfect--but I thought I would share. Brigham for the last few weeks has been discussing with me what type of cake he would like. Since he had too many ideas, I will decide this year for him. I can not wait to make it for him!!!!

Madaline

2012-01-01T22:22:00.004-07:00

I am not sure what happened! Madaline has lost all her hair and it seems to be growing in blonde. I have never had a baby lose all their hair before and have to say, i miss it. It was a beautiful color. Who knows, maybe it will change again and go dark ? either way I will love it. It is just such a shock to us as we look at what she had and lost in a few short months.

2012-01-01T22:10:00.003-07:00

Where ever brigham goes...his dump truck goes with him. For Christmas Brigham got a new dump truck from Santa, which was very much needed, seeing how his last one, he has been pushing around without back wheels for a few months. Brigham could not wait to try it out and take Madaline around for the ride!

Pecan Trees

2011-11-19T15:11:00.005-07:00

There are hundreds of Pecan trees and Pecan Orchards all over the Mesilla Valley here in Las Cruces. It is a big source of income for many. Right next to where Samuel goes to ride is 1 of many Pecan Orchards. The kids and I have taken many walks thru it and collected Pecans that have fallen to the ground. Last week my kids raked up as many leaves as they could get( there are not many leaves falling yet, since they do not harvest the Pecans until after Thanksgiving or Christmas depending on the year, not to mention the leaves themselves are not even that nice of a leaf, they are hard and can be poky)They raked up leaves and walked for at least an hour in circles going everywhere trying to find more to make a pile big enough to jump in. They had a blast with what they could find.

Waiting for her 4 month shots....

2011-11-14T23:07:00.003-07:00

I took Madaline in for her 4 month shots today...we were only at the Doctors office for 2 hrs!!!! waiting! I was bored and started to mess around with the camera on the phone. Madaline was laughing and I wanted to capture it, but of course as soon as I put the camera in her face she kept trying to focus on it and not laugh.

Cowhands in training

2011-11-08T09:49:00.006-07:00

We know a very nice coupld here in Las Cruces who have Horses and let the kids come and ride to get some energy out. It is such a nice break for them to be able to get outside and just play all day in the dirt! ride horses and just be kids!!!!

"It is Halloween, isn't it"

2011-11-02T15:59:00.003-07:00

Samuel and I found ourselves asking each other if it really was Halloween as we took the kids around and NO one was opening their doors! In our apartment complex there are over 200 apartments. Only 6 opened their door! So, we took our kids to a subdivision right behind where we live and found a few more doors for them to knock. They had a great time going out, even if not many people opended their doors. Those who did compensated and would dump their bowl in their bag or give them a handful! it was crazy.

A piece of heaven...or home

2011-10-25T14:21:00.003-07:00

I made the mistake a couple of weeks ago, voicing to my husband that I wanted to be home. Home in Idaho. Surrounded by family and enjoying the fall season to its fullest. It was a mistake because as soon as I voice my desire, it is harder to bear. If I keep my mouth shut, I work thru my problem or whatever it is better.
As I have been dreaming of home, it did not help that I was talking about Idaho to this nice Lady who I visit with each day, while we wait to pick up our kids at school. Her family was planning a trip to Boise. Her husband and son got tickets to a BSU game, and decided to make a family trip out of it. She would ask about places to see and eat, the weather, colors of leaves on the trees etc. The more we visited the more I missed that great place.
She gave me a report today about how their trip was. Of course, she said it was like a slice of heaven. They loved every minute and did not want to leave. She was amazed by the fall colors, especially the red. You do not see that color around here. You are lucky to get a little yellow in November/December. She was fascinated by everything Idaho has to offer. She could not say enough good. I was so glad that it had been a very pleasant trip for them.
One of the places I had mentioned to her, when she asked about fall activities was The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. I told her how each fall I would go and get 1 of their HUGE caramel apples. They are truly amazing, or at least that is how I remember them. She said they made sure to go there and let each of their kids choose an apple. They loved them! and even brought back one for me!!!! I was soooo surprised and touched by her small gesture of thoughtfulness. I stole a small bite as I cut the apple for my kids and felt like I was home for a moment. No mater where we go or move, I will always appreciate what a great state Idaho is.

Thumb or Pacifier?

2011-10-20T11:06:00.004-07:00

I have always wanted a thumb-sucker. Mainly because I had heard my whole life that they are a lot happier babies. I am not completely sure why,but I know why it makes me happier--I do not have to put a pacifier back in every 2 seconds when the baby accidentally spits it out or pulls it out. I am aware that with a thumb sucker you can not take away the thumb, as you can the pacifier. There are many reasons I am aware of, but I still think it is so adorable to see little babies sucking their thumbs.

A couple of times, during an ultrasound I saw Madaline sucking her thumb and was very excited. While she was in the hospital, they used a pacifier. She goes back and forth between sucking on her hands and when she is done with that or frustrated, she will take a pacifier. The other day she finally found her thumb and was so happy! so it seemed, because I told Samuel to look at her and he said to pull it out--since we know it can be a hard habit to break. I did and boy did she get upset. I told myself if she finds it again, I am going to let her keep it! After many attempts of her trying to find her thumb and me getting the camera I finally captured a picture of Madaline sucking her thumb.Who knows what she will prefer thumb or pacifier, only time will tell. Right now though, she seems to like both and has her preferences for when she wants one or the other!

Every day while I am at school, waiting for my kids to be released people will come up to me and say, " Look at that red hair!" "Her hair is getting redder by the day!" I wish I had a good photo that showed her hair color. I never thought I would have a red headed baby, but maybe I will :)

BATS!

2011-10-06T10:20:00.005-07:00

I LOVE Halloween! Probably because it is in the fall and fall is my favorite season. Life seems to start to calm down, there is a fresh cool breeze, the colors are always breathtaking when they change. You can make caramel apples and all the other really fun autumn treats. I will not go on and bore you anymore. I think my love has been passed on to a son, who is now obsessed with Halloween...and with that comes an obsession of BATS!
Last year as a reward, he picked out a Vampire Dick and Jane book. I did not think much of it. Every project as the year went on somehow turned into a bat theme. A gingerbread boy, was dressed as a vampire( closest thing to a bat) A humpty dumpty was dressed as a bat and so forth. Brigham loves bats!
A couple of weekends ago Samuel and I, with some of his friends from school went on a hike to a canyon out in the desert.Samuel found a small opening at the bottom of a rock wall and decided to go in. It turned out to be a cave! Everyone climbed in but Madaline and I. To their surprise there were Bats everywhere inside! Brigham, to say the least was in heaven. He missed seeing them the first time, so Samuel being a good sport and knowing how disappointed Brigham was took him back in for a second time to make sure he saw them.

Trying to get a good school picture!

2011-09-15T10:28:00.005-07:00

I usually take a few rounds of pictures hoping for 1 good picture. I have fun, work on my camera skills and the kids are always good sports and humor me.

Madaline's Blessing day

2011-09-06T15:06:00.003-07:00

our past week

2011-08-23T10:12:00.005-07:00

Madaline and Emmaline

Last week was a crazy week! The kids started school, we celebrated our 9th anniversary..crazy to think and Bennett turned 5! I decided to keep Bennett home this year from Kindergarten and I have not regretted that decision one bit! Since the kids are gone during the day, Bennett will pull Madaline around everywhere. If he leaves the room to go to another room, she is coming. All day long I hear.." Mom, I just love her soo much!" Yesterday, she started to cry and I could not get to her soon enough, when I did walk in I found Bennett had given her a pacifier and was trying to console her by wrapping a blanket around her. It was very cute!

Bennett taking Madaline with him

Madaline in a party hat...we thought she looked like a little garden gnome

Bennett and his new BB Gun! what a birthday..we set up a shooting target down our hall for him to practice shooting bears! we figured this was safer for him to shoot versus Samuel's 9mm! He is not a bad shot!

Randomness

2011-08-15T11:21:00.003-07:00

Madaline sunbathing

All wanting to hold her...and have their picture taken!

Emmaline taking care of Madaline...no lack of love here!!!

Madaline hanging out waiting f0r Church.

Meeting Madaline

2011-08-01T11:11:00.002-07:00

Wednesday last week, things were still not going anywhere, but down. In frustration Samuel and I went to the hospital and drilled the nurse with questions, wanting answers so we could better understand what was going on. We left, having set up an appt. to meet with the Neo-natal Doctor the next morning. Much to my surprise it went well, and they let me "room in" and have her next to me and nurse her for 24 hrs. to see how she would do. Since I was in a hospital room, with my baby, no cords or monitors, I asked if the kids come and see her. They agreed as along as they washed their hands.So, Thursday afternoon the kids finally got to meet their sister for the first time! It was so fun to watch them and their actions. Bennett kept saying how much he loved her, Brigham just smiled and Emmaline kept saying, " I can not believe I have a sister!" The hospital would not let them hold her, but it worked out fine because Friday afternoon we were able to finally bring her home!!!! She had gained weight over the 24hrs, was more awake and alert than she had been and as one nurse put it, "she looks so much more content, peaceful." I thought to myself, a baby needs their mom just as much as a mom needs her baby!
Emmaline has been a very good big sister..She is very protective. She tells me when I need to change her diaper, wrap her up, put a blanket up when outside so the wind does not touch her face etc. She also is always begging to change the diapers! I am not use to so much help when it comes to taking care of a baby. The boys love to just sit and hold her.
Words can not describe how truly grateful I am to have her home! To be able to be a complete family. Thanks to all of you for your prayers on her behalf!

A few pictures

2011-07-20T20:50:00.003-07:00

Madaline holding onto her tubes..she has already pulled one out!

Madaline with her arms up near her face...her favorite place for them to be.

Looking up at Dad

In the 'billy' lights

Madaline Lovalyn Parry

2011-07-18T16:34:00.005-07:00

Madaline Lovalyn Parry was born July 14th at 1:55am in the morning! She weighed 6lbs 4.5 oz and was 20 inches long. I went to the doctor on the 12th of July because I had an impression that I had a slow leak in my water. The midwives did 2 tests-1 being positive and 1 negative. After doing an ultrasound and monitoring her and I for awhile the midwife sent me home and said we will recheck everything on Monday. The next day I still felt like something was not right, but did not want to call the midwives back and complain. I learned that when you do have a leak they induce you so the baby and you do not run the chance of an infection. So, I figure Madaline took matters into her own hands and decided to just break my water, causing her to be born at 35 weeks. She had problems breathing, due to too much water in her lungs so she was taken to the nursery. Once there they did an xray and decided she might have an infection in her lungs and started her on an antibiotic. They did a blood culture from her arteries, again looking for an infection and put her on a ventilator. Over the course of the past few days she has been up and down but we feel overall she is making head way. We hope she will be coming off all oxygen by tomorrow night and that her body will allow her to digest food. They are slowly feeding her 1cc-2cc an hour. Once she is off oxygen we have at least a 5 day waiting period before she can come home, to make sure all is well.

Rincon, NM

2011-07-10T16:47:00.002-07:00

4th of July weekend we went looking for rocks!! with Uncle Mike and Aunt Caitlin. It was a lot of fun to see the kids excitement as they would find Barite crystals, jasper and just plain cool looking rocks. Bennett had his arms so full, they kept falling everywhere, so he would drop them all and attempt again to reload his arms. He never seemed to miss one, which was amazing to me.

Sewing like mad!

2011-07-08T08:57:00.005-07:00

I love to sew! I love the feeling of accomplishment that comes when I complete a project and it is actually useable. I am not the best at sewing and still have much to learn, but I enjoy the challenge.This summer Emmaline and I have been sewing together, which has been great fun. She has helped me with picking colors, cutting and so forth. She wanted to make a blanket for her "little sister" and that is how it all started. Here are just a few pictures of some of the things we have made. Just for fun!This is a picture of the Blanket we just finished. Emmaline Chose the fabric and ribbon. She cut the ribbon, pinned it on and I helped her sew it together. We put a light cotton on the other side since it is so hot here!

This was Emmaline's first blanket. We made a receiving blanket with flannel, so she could cut the edges to fray it. She did all the cutting and I just sewed the 2 pieces of fabric together.

Emmaline wanted a matching dress to the baby so I made this and then made one for her. Hers is not all the way complete, so I will wait until it is. I have to make a few alterations.

I love making little girl dresses, so...I found this reversible dress pattern and made a few dresses. This is one of my favorites. All the flowers I make are on safety pins so I can put them where I wish.

I have many more projects, but I am not about to bore you with all of them!!!

Who knew?

2011-06-30T17:35:00.003-07:00

Last night, Samuel decided to bring home a new friend. I should not be surprised since he has brought home numerous creatures on many different occasions and for the most part , I can handle it. Last fall, he brought a Boa Constrictor. This time...... a Tarantula!

I already knew that I do not care for spiders, but I had no idea just how much I can not stand spiders!! As soon as Samuel released the Tarantula in a jar I was sick to my stomach and started having contractions. I didn't know if I was going to pass out or throw up. My whole body contracted as he took the lid off every now and then to take pictures. A few times the Tarantula would jump up and I thought for sure it would become loose in our apartment. After playing with it Samuel and the kids went and set it free as I tried to calm myself down. I felt so weak and amazed at myself at just how much I really do not like spiders! and to think, this is not even as big as they come!

Hope, NM

2011-06-20T16:01:00.006-07:00

Bennett having the time of his life!

Bringing in a calf

Samuel in action

Vaccinating the Calves

Brigham in amazement...I don't know how long he stood there!

Two peas in a pod!

Getting ready

Old cliff dwellings on the Ranch

This weekend we had the opportunity to go to Hope, NM for a branding. It was a beautiful 3 hr. drive where we got to see TREES, elk, deer, wild turkeys, green pastures and TREES!!!!( I say that twice because I miss them soooo much!) The kids got to play in dirt until they were completely worn out and run around. Emmaline got to get up early with all the other buckaroos and drive the cattle in, work in the branding pen and then drive the cows home. She put in a good 8 hr day!! Mind you, we did not make her, she kept asking to stay and help and she was amazing! It was a great break from the every day life, full of fun and amazing Mexican food!

Emmaline's Project

2011-06-16T10:37:00.002-07:00

This summer Emmaline and I have been sewing away. She helped me make a couple of receiving blankets among other items. Yesterday she asked if we could make her a bag to hold her Activity Day folder. I said sure, why not and let her pick out the fabric. This is what we ended up with. It was a lot of fun!!

Mom, help me!

2011-06-07T13:05:00.001-07:00

Samuel and I have never been big into buying toys for our kids. They love to be outside and would prefer playing in the dirt above anything else. It always seemed like a waste of money. Yet, they need to have something to do inside when they are trapped due to weather. So, awhile ago Samuel and I decided that they could earn a toy with each scripture that they memorize. Brigham was the first to try this out. We assigned him Mosiah 3:19. It took him about 6 months( we were the ones procrastinating!)to learn it perfectly. He was so proud of himself and after a trip to the store and a break he was ready for more. This also gave Bennett motivation as well to memorize a scripture.
We assigned Brigham Doctrine and Covenants section 4. and Bennett the first 4 Articles of Faith. Since summer break begun, every day all I hear is " Mom, will you please help me work on my scripture" of course I am willing to help and sometimes I get a little frustrated when they seem to get stuck on that one word, yet I am very grateful that they are eager to pull out their scriptures and read. Some days, it is like an on going scripture study as we quote them and talk about words and what they mean. Bennett has conquered the first 4 Articles of Faith and loves to say them all the time. Sometimes I catch Emmaline working with him in her room, since she also is working on the Articles of Faith for her Faith in God.
I love my kids!!! I am so grateful for their love of life they have and excitement they share with others!

Easter weekend

2011-04-29T18:24:00.008-07:00

This Easter weekend we had an opportunity to head up to our Bishop's Family Ranch in Tucumcari New Mexico the help with the Branding.It was so nice to get away from the city!!! The kids and I were able to spend almost every minute outside and just relax! It was so wonderful. It was windy, but we did not mind.Spring time in New Mexico means-WIND NON STOP! and with the wind is dirt. People say you watch Arizona blow to Texas each spring. You can literally see dirt build up on you and your clothes when you are outside. Emmaline had the opportunity to go out with Samuel on her own horse and round up the cows the day before. The day of the Branding she was able to go gather cows with the bishops mom and son. Samuel was not there to help her, but they said she did great! She really felt big--I felt nervous!and very much relieved when I saw her come back over the hill with the cows. The branding took more time than we had anticipated so we ended up being there for Easter, which worked out well. They had an egg hunt for all the kids and treats. They did not want to leave. They had dirt, open spaces, horses to ride,cows to watch, water to play in and more dirt!

It's a......

2011-04-12T11:16:00.003-07:00

GIRL!!!!!!!!

We went to have an ultrasound done back in March. The technician was very nice, but was unable to say for certain what she thought it might be. The baby was moving around so much and seemed to be sideways. So, I waited 4 more weeks, and it was worth it! It was so fun to sit and watch the baby. She is VERY active, like Emmaline was. We are all very excited!!!!

When we found out we were expecting, we shared the news right away with our kids, since they have been praying and begging, for what seems like forever, for us to have another one. They were all overjoyed. About a month or two, after telling them we were expecting the prayers started. It started with Bennett. Each night he would bless the baby to be healthy and then it turned into, "bless her". He had decided it would be a little girl, since that was what he wanted.So, he started to pray that it would be a little girl. About a month and a half ago, I still remember him running out of his room, right after he woke up, saying, " Mom, I just had the best dream. It is a girl and I saw her!" I could not convince him otherwise. Soon Emmaline and Brigham joined in and started to pray each night in their prayers that they could have a little sister. I tried to prepare them and explain to them, how even though what they wanted was a g0od thing, Heavenly Father does not always give us what we pray for. This morning before leaving, I told Bennett where I was going and what the doctor was going to do. I said, they will look inside and say, Its a boy! He looked at me and said" Mom, they are going to say it is a girl, silly, but, if it is a boy I will still like it." I know he would.

I am so grateful for my 3 wonderful kids and all the joy they bring to me. They make me laugh each day and always know just what to say to me, to make my day! I love how they are still not too old to run and give me hugs and kisses, after I have not seem for awhile. How they try to take care of me with my ever growing tummy. I do think, I have the best kids there possibly are!

20 March- Amy and Emmaline's birthday & Emmaline's baptism day!

2011-03-24T17:58:00.011-07:00

We had an enjoyable weekend with the family we had come into town. Amy's brother Micheal and Caitlin his wife were here and so were my mom and dad. They brought Alan, Taylor and Olivia.
I can't believe I have a daughter old enough to be baptized. It was a great experience for me. I could tell Emmaline was a little nervous although she wouldn't admit it. We had a lot of support from the ward and even had our neighbor Hildegaard, who isn't a member, there for the ordinances.
Emmaline had two baptism day dresses, one from each of her grandmothers. She was baptized in one and confirmed in the other. She was absolutely beautiful. I am determined to postpone the day of her wedding (the day she will again be in all white for another sacred ordinance) for as long as possible- perhaps 30 or 40 years.
Both the baptism and confirmation went without a hitch. It was great having my dad, my brother in law Micheal and Alan join with me in the circle for the confirmation. Alan was just recently made an elder and was excited about the opportunity to stand in.

We are grateful for the righteous girl that Emmaline is becoming. She is such a sweet, obedient girl. She has such a great capacity for good, and her example radiates everywhere she goes. She is friends with everyone at school, even the ugly and lame kids.
20 March 2011 will be a date to remember- when on Amy and Emmaline's birthdays, Emmaline was baptized and confirmed.

A New Year...brings much anticpated joy!

2011-01-16T17:44:00.007-07:00

Despite what it may seem like, I have had actually too much going on in my life, too many thoughts and feelings running through my head for me to even think straight and write it down. Every time I sit down, my mind goes blank!!

First off, we were able to go home for Christmas, which was much needed!!! and what made it even better was that on our way up, we went to Phoneix--and finally got our Transmission truly fixed. FINALLY NO MORE TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS!!! at least for now!

Brigham turned 6 on the 15th!! It was a lot of fun. Mike and Caitlin came down and joined us, making his birthday even better! We took the kids hiking to a place called Kilbourne Hole, 10 miles from the Mexico border. They had a lot of fun and were very worn out by the end. The week previous we also went hiking in a different area. It was also lots of fun. While heading down the side of a steep mountain poor Bennett slipped and sat right in a cactus! We got all the needles out and he recovered quickly. Brigham led the way, falling every once in a while, getting a few cactus needles in his hands occasionally, but he just kept on moving.

Samuel just started his 2nd semester of Grad school. This semester on top of all his fun economic classes he gets to take a GIS class. He really enjoys that kind of stuff and is good at it. Before we left the Roaring Springs Ranch he mapped out all the private pastures--which was no small task. They were very impressive maps to say the least.

I am excited for this new year! For the unknown and new chances and experiences. I feel like we have been very blessed in many ways and feel very over whelmed with emotions. And since I have no idea how to say this--After many months of fasting and prayers we are happy to announce that we are expecting!!!

White Sands National Monument

2010-12-05T16:23:00.004-07:00

For Thanksgiving Break Mike and Caitlin came down from Albuquerque and we took the kids to White Sands. Needless to say, all my kids were in heaven. It was a beautiful day!!

The kids made snow angels in the white sand--since they have no snow to play in! The sand is so bright white, it was like we were in snow, but with out the cold and wet affects.

2010-11-01T19:14:00.008-07:00

Bennett 2 weeks old

Tonight I had the opportunity to sit and rock my little 4 year old to sleep since he is sick. As soon as I wrapped that blanket around him, lifted him up on my lap and laid him gently upon me, I was quickly reminded of the many times before I held him close and rocked him to sleep. My heart swelled, and I admit even ached stronger than it has for awhile. It is such a bitter sweet moment to watch your children grow.

As a mother we give our all to our children, holding nothing back. Every thought and action seem to be centered around them in one direction or another and we would have it no other way!

Brigham 2 weeks old

While we were in Oregon one night Bennett woke up coughing. He had not had a cough, so it was completely out of the blue. I recognized the cough as Croup, since my children have had it before. I went in to call him and make sure he was OK. I quickly noticed he was not breathing. I took him to Samuel and we both tried to calm him down and get him to talk to us. All Bennett would do was take short shallow breaths, holding his throat and at times he tried to put his hand down his throat like he had something lodged in it. We called the hospital in Burns OR to speak to a nurse and ask for their opinion. They said since we live 80 miles away and he was not breathing that they would send an ambulance and we were to start driving to meet them. We called our neighbors who lived 5 miles away and they came while we took off and started to burns. We met up with the Ambulance after about 40 miles. I got in the Ambulance with Bennett and Samuel followed behind. As luck would have it just a few minutes before we arrived at the hospital Bennett was breathing better and was stable. The Doctor did some x-rays checked him out and we were off.

We got home about 6 in the morning and tried to get a little sleep. He never coughed again.It seemed to go away as quick as it had appeared. That afternoon as I was running I was replaying the events in my mind, asking myself if I would have done anything different, knowing what I know now. Would I have gone to the hospital, would I have gotten in that ambulance with Bennett? Of course I would have! I would not have done anything different.

Emmaline at 4 months on her blessing day

I am so grateful for the Opportunity that my Father in Heaven has given me to be a mother here on this earth at this time. I love my three beautiful kids more than I can say.The joy and happiness they bring to me, I am always thanking my Father in heaven for. I would be lost without them and my life have very little meaning. I hope and pray that if I continue to try to improve myself and be an even better mother each day that I will be able to have more kids as well someday. I LOVE BEING A MOTHER AND WOULD NOT CHANGE IT FOR ANYTHING!!!

Working with Samuel out in Nebraska

Pictures

2010-09-24T17:10:00.002-07:00

Ciudad Juarez

2010-09-08T17:41:00.005-07:00

This weekend we had the privilege of having Alan, Devin and Dennis come visit us for Labor day Weekend! It was so much fun to see Dennis again after 2 years. They came Friday night. They showed up after our visit from the Boa Constrictor. Saturday Alan wanted to go to Texas, since he has never been there. So, we went to El Paso,TX. which is 38 miles from us. As we entered the city we saw a HUGE flag. As we got closer we realized it was the Mexican flag, it then dawned on me THAT was Juarez. The worst place to be right now on this continent! It was crazy to be sooo close! We were talking about how we were in firing range and could be hit. Devin after it was silent yelled " bang" really loud. Alan jumped so hard.I do not plan on going down there anytime soon again.It is a little discomforting for me to be so close.On the way home we stopped at a country feed store off the highway to see a camel! so random. Sunday we went to church and had a great day. Monday the guys hiked the Organ Mountains while I did homework with my kids. That night we tried to find the most authentic Mexican restaurant and went to the park. It was great!

Oh, I’m being eaten....

2010-09-03T17:21:00.004-07:00

Shel Silverstein - Boa Constrictor

Oh, I’m being eaten
By a boa constrictor,
A boa constrictor,
A boa constrictor,
I’m being eaten by a boa constrictor,
And I don’t like it–one bit.
Well, what do you know?
It’s nibblin’ my toe.
Oh, gee,
It’s up to my knee.
Oh my,
It’s up to my thigh.
Oh, fiddle,
It’s up to my middle.
Oh, heck,
It’s up to my neck.
Oh, dread,
It’s upmmmmmmmmmmffffffffff . . .

Tonight we had the missionaries come over for dinner. Samuel left to go pick them up and then showed up at the door with 2 missionaries, a guy off the street..and his pet Boa Constrictor- "Baby face". We all had a nice visit and towards the end Emmaline asked Bob, if she could hold Baby face. I am constantly amazed at Emmaline! She went and sat on his lap so Baby face could get use to her. Slowly Baby face warmed up and made her way on Emmaline. Always a adventure here!

One hectic week

2010-08-20T15:23:00.003-07:00

On Monday, Samuel and I celebrated our 8 year anniversary! It was also Emmaline and Brigham's first day of school here in New Mexico. Wednesday we got our truck back from the mechanic and took the kids to the coolest park. Adults can even play with the kids at the park. It is all wood and looks like something from Shakespearean times, complete with mazes. The kids loved it. Thursday was Bennetts 4th birthday and Samuels first official day of Grad school. Bennett and I both have to learn to adjust with not having Emmaline and Brigham home during the day. I sure do not like all day kindergarten everyday. I will learn to adjust or home school. We will see anyone know any good homeschooling programs? I am all ears.

3 transmissions later......

2010-08-13T17:43:00.005-07:00

Last week on friday we headed out, to move to Las Cruces New Mexico for Samuel to go to Grad school. Some freinds from our branch in Oregon helped us move so they could see their family down in New Mexico. Friday night we made it to Las Vegas, NV. Our truck had been acting a little funny in Twin falls and by the time we were in traffic in Las Vegas, of course it had to start dying at every light we hit. It was such a relief to get out of traffic and to Zach and Ambers house. Saturday Zach and Amber showed us around Las Vegas and took us swimming. The kids had such a blast. We got back on the road Sunday morning only to make it to the middle of a desert to breakdown. Our Transmission we had replaced 3 weeks earlier was gone! We do not own a cell phone, so Samuel took some water and started to walk down the highway. I took the kids and we rested in the shade of a joshua tree until Samuel arrived back. Luckily we were only there for 2 hours. Samuel had hitchhiked to the nearst littletown with a bus full of mexicans heading to mexico. The fist town he saw he had the mexicans drop him off , he used a girls personal cellphone to call a tow truck. We were all very relieved to see Samuel. They took us into a town called Wickenburg, AZ. and dropped us off with the truck at a mechanics. WE then took what we could out of the front of our truck and walked to go find a hotel. Tuesday around 2 we were able to get back on the road met up with our friends in Animas, NM. Wednesday we made it to LAS Cruces...FINALLY! Only to start having truck problems agian. But at least we are here!!!! The truck is in the shop and another transmission is being put in. I sure love vehicles. Thanks everyone for your prayers. I know, if nothing else we were kept safe, and I would rather have car problems then have my safety or the safety for any member of my family jeoperdized.

Las Cruces, Here we come!

2010-05-16T10:13:00.003-07:00

I was able to get to the internet for a minute and thought I would share that Samuel received a research assistantship at New Mexico State University! We will be moving there at the begining of Auguast. We are very excited for this opportunity!!!! Hope everyone is doing good!

Roaring Springs Ranch

2010-01-21T11:48:00.004-07:00

After Christmas we took a job out in Frenchglen, Oregon, in the Steens Mountains.Samuel is the horse trainer till spring then he will be the helping with spring work and then taking a buckaroo crew and heading out to the mountains to drive cattle all summer. I will get to see him saturday nights and sundays. We are 80 miles from Church and 20 miles from the schoolhouse. The schoolhouse is a 1 room school house that Emmaline and I fell right in love with! To get there you have to go down a 14% grade road. Here are just a few pictures till I can get next to the internet again. The picture of the deer was taken out our back window. Every night we have a herd of at least 20 deer that come down and lay around and eat. the kids love to watch them.

Samuel is Graduating

2009-12-16T12:15:00.004-07:00

Samuel graduates this Saturday with his bachelors in Animal Science and minor in Natural Resource Management.CONGRATULATIONS SAMUEl!!!!!! We are so excited to move and feel so blessed for the opportunity that we had to be at Brigham Young University- Idaho.

" I love my Blonde Mama!"

2009-11-19T17:14:00.003-07:00

The other day I decided that I wanted to do something new with my hair..so I got highlights! and bangs. My boys were very thrilled to find that I now have blonde hair like them. Brigham tells me at least 5 times a day how much he likes it. I have to admit, it makes me feel good that he approves.

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T09:10:00.002-07:00

Snowman!

2009-10-30T12:47:00.005-07:00

We woke up to Snow today! The boys could not wait to play in it, so I let them go play after we took Emmaline to school.Brigham tried his hand at making a snow man and learned it was the perfect snow!

Random Happenings

2009-10-25T19:58:00.003-07:00

For fun

2009-10-20T10:30:00.002-07:00

FALL is my Favorite!

2009-09-18T11:04:00.002-07:00

Each year I fall more and more in love with fall! I can hardly wait till September 1st when I will pull out my fall decorations...for my benefit. Not Halloween, decorations..fall. This year though, I have created much confusion in my little boys head. Every day he asks,"is it Halloween?"," What is fall", "Does Fall bring Halloween?". Even Emmaline the other night as we were driving home as a family from an outing said, " Do you know what I love best?" (pause)"Besides you and Dad and the brothers?...(long sigh)"It is Halloween!" I think I might be rubbing off on them! I love everything about fall and can't seem to get enough of it!

Rolling HIlls Classic

2009-09-12T10:08:00.004-07:00

Emmaline decided that she really enjoys running...so we signed her up for her first official 5k! Of course we weren't going to have her do it alone, so I got to go along...which I was very excited for. I also convinced my sister Emily to run with us as well. I am soooo excited for my new running partner!

The First day of School!!

2009-08-30T21:08:00.003-07:00

Wednesday, last week Emmaline started first grade! She was very excited and a proud owner of her first lunch box!I was a nervous wreck the whole day wondering how she was but survived. I wish I had taken the camera with me when we went to pick her up..she looked like she had been beaten up from head to toe with curls hanging down..yet a smile on her face happy to be going home! I think more and more about home school. I hate when my kids are gone!

WOW!!!!

2009-08-23T14:13:00.003-07:00

So I knew my daughter was amazing..but this was above and beyond!! I go running every day and every day as I am getting ready my little girl asks if she can go. I kindly explain that I don't think she can. I also let her know that when she gets bigger she can come all she wants. Well, Saturday night my sister Emily came in town and we decided to go for a run. Emmaline was heart broken that the girls were leaving without her. She asked her Dad if she could go and he said yes!! So she quickly changed her clothes and was pushing us out the door. Samuel loaded the boys into the truck and followed so she could get in the truck when she was tired and come home. Well...that little girl surprised us all!!! She ran the entire 4 miles with energy to spare and I need to mention there were spots going uphill that she felt I was going to slow.. so she would push me! I laughed so hard and inside felt so much joy to know she loved me so much that she didn't want to leave me behind. i am sooo grateful for her! to say the least.

Bennett turned 3 !!

2009-08-21T13:04:00.001-07:00

On the 19th of August 2006 Bennett joined our family. To my amazement when I say him for the first time I was blown away to find we had another blond haired, blue-eyed boy.I am so grateful for him. He makes me laugh all the time and keeps me going. I am sad that I no longer have a baby in the home. So when he asks, "can you rock me?" just to get out of going to bed I gladly accept.
Bennett has looked forward to this birthday for so long that it made it really fun. He understood what a Birthday meant. I made him a barn cake, which he just starred at all afternoon, hoping it wouldn't disappear and waited patiently to have pizza and presents when Samuel got home.

7 amazing years...already!!!!

2009-08-18T13:02:00.004-07:00

Sunday Samuel and I marked our 7 year anniversary!!! We were unable to go out so on Monday we celebrated. I can not believe it has been 7 years..honestly. We were in Marsing on Sunday, Samuels home ward and I ran into some of our favorite people. There was one man paticular who I saw and remembered something he told me 8 years ago. "You will never have a dull moment in your life with him" I chuckled. I had no idea how true that statement was. He has made my life wonderful!!! I am so grateful for a husband that keeps me on my toes and make me laugh every day!

Salamandor Lake Loop

2009-08-02T17:32:00.004-07:00

On Saturday we went on a family horse ride up in the mountains. We all had a good time even Emmaline and Brigham who were bucked completely off, after Denny, Emmalines horse was jabbed by a dead tree. Emmaline held on to his neck thru the first buck and during the second let go and rolled off into a ball. Brigham slid right off the back at the first sign of trouble. Bennett had a blast every time a horse would jump or trot. He has the curse!!! My horse towards the end jumped really high trying to clear a dead tree...I did not fall off, but somehow managed to slam my head into the side of the horses head ( bad whiplash ).It was beautiful country to see and an amazing view..being completely on top of the Mountain.

Kilgore, ID with the family

2009-07-21T12:15:00.007-07:00

My Family gets to come home from Mexico for the month of July every year. Since Samuel has still been in classes they made a special trip up to see us and spend time with us. I had so much fun and wished it never would end! When they first got here Samuel had work to do, so we took them up to Kilgore, Id. Where some of the cows are at pasture. Samuel had to doctor a cow among other things so we made a trip out of it. Aaron and Emily both got to help out and Aaron got to ride a calf. Emmaline is doing so well riding that she has been able to go to Kilgore a few times with Samuel ride her own horse and help push cows. she just loves it!

* A fun side note...Bennett Broke his foot three days prior to this and is in a green cast..you can not see it..the next day the doctor asked me to come back in and have the cast removed because the radiologist said it was not broken, so I did. After a week and a half of Bennett still crawling and limping I took him back to the pediatrician who got me into a orthopedic doctor(bone specialist) who x-rayed it again and said it was broken and re-casted it. So he know has a bright red cast and is finely feeling better. I sure love Doctors!

Pictures

2009-07-05T21:54:00.003-07:00

For the 4th of July weekend I left Rexburg for the first time since Christmas! That was needed! So here are just some random pictures I took over the weekend. Some are on the way to Camp Loll to pick up Samuels cousin to take him with us and others at the reunion.

Puppies!!!!

2009-06-22T13:57:00.004-07:00

here a few of the girls that look like Felina

This is our only male...he is fun! He loves to run and jump into the back of Brighams dumptruck and go for a ride.

This girl is our favorite. She fell asleep on my foot while I was taking pictures and I did my best to capture it.

My Brigham...Update

2009-06-16T14:09:00.006-07:00

So we went back to the Doctors last week and Brigham's sight was a little worse, at 20/30 than the previous week. He said it was good, at least it was not at 20/40. Considering when he first came in he was legally blind! I sure we all would be with a thorn and an infection in our eye! He also said that he wants to see it get all the way back to 20/20. We go back in a month-unless Brigham has pain, redness in his eye or any discharge. In which time, he said we will give the eye more time to fully heal. He is watching for a cataract( I have no clue how you spell that). They occur when the Lens of the eye is touched, and could show up now or in 40 yrs, if indeed his lens was penetrated by the thorn. He said due to the infection he was not able to see completely the depth of the thorn and wants to make sure the lens is undamaged. He said since it went right through the very center of his eye, that he is concerned it could of easily pentetrated. So, in a months time we hope it heals properly and the cornea does not heal with a flat spot where the incision was( in that case he probably will need glasses). If his vision is the same or worse, they will patch the other eye for awhile to see if that will strengthen his right eye.

Brigham is doing well for the most part. The days for the eye patch and arm boards are at least past. I put this picture in because it makes me laugh! to fall asleep Brigham holds his blanket right under his nose. he could not do that with the arm boards so he would ask me to hold his blanket and get frustrated as he would demonstrate on how to do it right. I just was not getting it right! He finally decided to use his whole arm.Every once in awhile he cries because of pain and the sun still irritates him a lot.Over time I am sure things will be better. Again, Thanks for your prayers!!!

Answered Prayers

2009-06-01T14:18:00.004-07:00

I wanted to thank everyone for their prayers in Brighams behalf! I truly believe that because of them he is doing so well. I took Brigham to the Doctor Sunday after church for a quick check-up. After checking his eye, The Doctor told me, he was very pleased with Brighams progress and that two days ago while he was performing the surgery he was very afraid that he was going to be losing his eye. I do not know if the Doctor was exaggerating or not, but I am so grateful that at this point things look good. We see the Doctor frequently to make sure the infection is still leaving and the incision in his eye is healing properly...in hopes his eye sight will be 20/20 again. Thank you all again for your prayers!! There are more pictures below on Samuels post. They were taken when Samuel came to get us to take us home. The arm boards, if you are wondering are to keep his arms straight so he does not touch his eye and cause more damage while the incision is healing.So every night we wrap them back up. Poor kid! I hate doing that, but hopefully it will help!

"If thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee..." Matthew 5:29

2009-05-30T09:56:00.006-07:00

--A man who had an eye made of wood walked into a bar. He saw an attractive lady who sported a leg made of wood. He was infatuated by that beautiful thing; the way the light reflected off the varnish just so, the uniformity and symmetry of the grains as they ran the length of the post- vascular prosthetic. As he approached her, she too was taken by his eyes, especially the solid walnut, naturally finished right eye which he displayed with no shame. She wondered what was his name and from where he came. He spoke just loud enough for her to hear him over chatter in the bar, the billiard balls cracking and dropping into the pockets, and Phil Collins singing "You'll be in my heart." He asked with little confidence, "Would you like to dance"... he paused visibly shaken, then continued, "with me? You really don't have..." Before he could finish she answered with notable enthusiasm, "Would I!" Despondently and with a touch of venom he sneared, "Peg-leg!!" as he huffed away, evidently offended.

Last weekend Brigham had an irritated eye. Over the next week it got progressively worse. 6 days and 2 doctors later the medical proffessionals discovered a thorn in his right eye. I'm not sure if it had gotten there by accident or whether that eye had offended Brigham and he had taken action. The incident is still being investigated. Friday evening at 20:43:27 Brigham had emergency surgery on his eye to remove the thorn that had been in there for one week. The fiberous tunic of the cornea had grown over the thorn with a risk of penetrating the anterior chamber of the sclera. Brigham was under the knife for two hours. He now has to wear an obnoxious eye guard and splints on his arms to keep his hands away from his eyes. It is enjoying to tell him to touch his nose- to really encourage him to... because he can't. It's just kinda fun. Anyway here are some pictures. One is off him on Thursday, you can tell his eyes are really irritated.

Long awaited....trip to the sand dunes

2009-05-24T19:31:00.003-07:00

After a long days work, we took the kids by the Sand dunes for some fun! It was a very, VERY long winter for those boys.....but well worth the wait!

A Wonderful Sacrament Meeting

2009-05-03T16:34:00.003-07:00

Today was a great day!!!! for many reasons, one being I was finally able to rest after an eventful weekend of Branding. Today for Sacrament meeting we had a wonderful surprise. Elder Bednar, who was in town for the CES fireside, presided over our meeting. We also had Elder Clark( BYU-I President) and our Entire Stake Presidency as well. The Spirit was so strong. Elder Bednar Spoke to us and then invited Sis. Hobbs to share her testimony( the stake presidents wife), Our Great Bishop, Pres. Hobbs and Pres. Clark. Elder Bednar than concluded with his testimony. Over all it was just amazing. Emmaline was very impressed, when Samuel explained to her who he was and showed her his picture out of the Conference Issue he had on hand.
I am so grateful to be a member of this church and for my testimony that I have and hope that my children will someday appreciate this church as much as Samuel and I do.

Starting out with 8

2009-04-01T09:20:00.004-07:00

Here is a tag i am just know getting too...sorry!

8 things I did Yesterday:

1. Exercised
2. Read with my Children
3.Took a 20 min. nap-yeah!
4.Went to work with my husband! for a couple of hours
5.Cleaned house
6.Made dinner
7. vacuumed the floors for the tenth time!( can not stand anything on them:)
8. went to the grocery store

8 movies I love to Watch:

1. The "love comes softly" series
2. Musicals
3. Jane Austen's works
4. Anne of Green Gables series
5. Really, we do not watch movies. I never know what is going on in that area. The only time I can justify it is when kids are in bed and Samuel is out of town and I am waiting up for his phone call. Other than that there is too much to do! So, sorry I do not have 8!

8 Things on My wish list:

1. a new baby
2. New Couches!!
3. No more illnesses! sick of the colds
4. lose some weight!
5. to be a better person, friend, mom, wife- there is always room for improvement
6. no more snow!
7. a yard for my kids to play in
8.

8 Things I look forward to:

1. Samuel Graduating!!
2. Samuel going to Graduate school
3. A job once he is graduated
4. Adding on to our Family
5. Seeing my Family in July
6. Owning a barbecue grill
7. Spring and summer- so we can play outside and plant our garden
8. more room to live in

8 favorite restaurants:

I do not have one. Like Maria, I prefer a homemade meal any day! Plus we don't go out so I really have no idea!

8 people t o Tag:

If you want to go for it!

My hero of the Storm

2009-03-30T09:23:00.003-07:00

Yesterday we had a full out blizzard!!!! I could not believe it. It lasted for 5 hours! The entire 5 hours--Samuel was out in it trying to make sure that we did not lose any of the new calves that have been born, since it is calving season. There were glimpses i could see him and others I could not, due to how bad it was. When he came back to the barn he was all white!and frozen, yet he kept going. At one point we got in the truck and drove through the field to look for calves, that were getting buried in the snow. It was hard because of the low visibility we had.

I often ask my husband how he does it. Work in all extremes of weather- and keeps on doing it. I guess it just takes a certain kind of man. He is my hero in so many ways!!!

Happy Birthday Samuel

2009-03-24T14:04:00.003-07:00

I love you!! hope you have a great day!!! You are one of the kindest, unselfish person I know!!! You deserve a great day! Can't get enough of you!

Emmaline's First Hair cut!

2009-03-22T19:59:00.004-07:00

After 6 years we decided it was time! So, I took her to a friend of ours who is in Beauty school and we had a blast! She got a trim and I got my hair cut. Almost 16" worth! It was fun. Emmaline was so ecstatic! Thanks Kristina!

Happy Birthday Emmaline and Amy!!

2009-03-14T18:28:00.005-07:00

So this coming Friday I turn the big 28!! I really can not believe that I am that old already. It seems like i just turned 20. Emmaline will be turning 6 on friday. It seems so unreal as well. If you did not know, yes, we have the same birthday. I can picture that day so well.

After being in the hospital for 2 days hooked up to an IV trying to stop my contractions, things turned for the worse. The contractions were stopped and I was going to half to spend the next 2 1/2 months on bed rest in the hospital. Within a few hours the Doctor said I was not doing good and was fighting a bad infection of some kind inside. He was unable to diagnose it since I was already on an antibiotic. So, for my own safety and the safety of the Baby, I was started. The nurses took samuel to the NICU to show him Babies around 2 lbs. to prepare him for what our little girl would look like. I remember thinking, I wish I could go to. After sometime, she was born! 4 lbs. and 1 oz. It was a real miracle!! The doctor said that her daddies height probably played a big role in her size being larger than 2 lbs. I rememer just thinking how blessed we were. after a week though she was down to 3 lbs. as she struggled to eat.

Once Emmaline was rushed off to the NICU and things slowed down the nurses realized it was my birthday. One said to me that this was the best present ever! ( having a baby born on your birthday) I thought she was crazy considering that Emmaline was so early, but as time passed and we were in the clear and all looked good, it was the greates gift ever!!!

On Samuels birthday, 4 days latter we were able to hold our little girl for the first time. Another great Birthday present! for us both!!

I love you Emmaline! Happy Birthday!

It's what we do!

2009-03-06T21:31:00.004-07:00

I found this video recently and thought it would be fun to post it, since it is what we do. The kids LOVE it when they get roped( a fun game, right now) and Samuel gets to throw his rope around which he loves and can never get enough of. It gets real intense to watch When Samuel is roping off his horse as the kids run past as fast as they can, thinking they just might make it!( do not worry, they don't get hurt- they are laughing too hard!

We love March!!!!

2009-03-02T10:37:00.002-07:00

This month is always full of fun times. We have 3 Birthdays in our family out of 5-in 4 days! Spring is coming(which we all just love so much- Flowers, gardens all the good things are coming!) and of course one of my absolute favorite Holidays---ST. Patricks Day!! Happy Day!

2009-02-26T21:03:00.009-07:00

What has been in my mind....

A wonderful husband who is always there to make me smile and Laugh everyday!

Three wonderful Children ! Who help make my life complete in every way !!

A loyal Friend

The wide open spaces I yearn to live in again!

Life does not get any better!

Having someplace to go is
Home
Having someone to love is
Family
Having both is a
Blessing!

David and Goliath

2009-02-16T19:02:00.004-07:00

Last night before bed the kids and I were going through our Gospel Art Picture Kit. We ran into the picture of David and Goliath. The kids were very interested as I gave them a quick rundown. So, tonight we decided to do our Family home evening on the story of David and Goliath. It was great fun and the kids loved it. As I was reading the story to them and we were discussing it after I was very touched by the simplicity of David's faith.

He told the king of how he had fought with a lion and a bear to save his father’s sheep and concluded by saying that the Lord would deliver him out of the hand of the Philistine. Saul, possibly thinking that one more life lost would not be serious among the great losses they had already sustained, said to David, “Go, and the Lord be with thee” (1 Sam. 17:37).

Saul then placed armor on David until the boy could scarcely walk. David said to the king, “I cannot wear this,” and he took the armor off.

He then “took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd’s bag which he had … ; and his sling was in his hand” (1 Sam. 17:40).

This stripling of a boy, with only a sling and five stones, and without any armor other than the armor of faith, went down into the valley to face Goliath.

“And when the Philistine looked about, and saw David, he disdained him: for he was but a youth, and ruddy, and of a fair countenance.

“And the Philistine said unto David, Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves?”

And Goliath swore at David, saying, “Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field.”

Then David spoke these great words: “Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied.

“This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel” (see 1 Sam. 17:42–46).

That was brave talk for a boy who stood against a nine-foot giant.

In anger Goliath came at him. Then David, running toward the giant, “put his hand in his bag, and took thence a stone, and slang it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead, that the stone sunk into his forehead; and he fell upon his face to the earth” (1 Sam. 17:49).

As we talked about how David was armed with Faith and not armor I thought about all the Goliaths that are around us today that are not nine feet tall, yet they might feel like that at times. I thought to myself, how do I measure up, do I approach my Goliaths, as David ,

“Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel"

I am so grateful for the opportunity that I have through Family Home Evening to teach my Children simple principles that will enrich theirs lives forever, if they embrace them and for the opportunity to re-teach myself , reflect and re-commit so I can be a better mother and teacher to my Children. I love the Gospel so much!

14 Days of Valentines

2009-02-06T10:02:00.005-07:00

I love this time of year,the colors that are associated with Valentines Day, the feelings people start to ponder upon( just in case you were wondering, NO, this is not the only time I ponder on these things or the only time I try to make their day special. I actually try to make each day special for them) I consider myself terribly lucky each year as I reflect upon my husband and my children and what I can do for them to make that day just a little bit more special. I have 4 wonderful people that I get to share this holiday with! I am always looking for new ways, games and thoughts and Ideas of things that I can do and thought I would post a few for fun! one of my favorite ideas are the 14 days of Valentines. Here are some ideas:

I go bananas over you...Give a bunch of Bananas
You make me bubble over with joy....bubbles/bubble bath
BY gum! You're Special....Pack of gum
You fill my life with many snickers!(or I love how you make me snicker)...snickers candy bar
You're worth a mint to me.....Pack of mints
You really know how to knock my socks right off!....pair of socks
You have me all tied up inside....Tie
I love your hugs and kisses...Hershey hugs and kisses
You're a cracker jack kid...Cracker jacks
Let me count the reeses why I love you! (or risens)....Reeses peanut butter cups or risens
There's nutter butter kid than you!...pack of Nutter butter cookies
If kids were apples, I'd pick you...apples
Here is a bear hug for you!....stuffed bear
Do U-no I love you?.... pack of u-no cards

You can even just do small acts of service or just describe qualities they have that you truly love!
Love you All!!!

Love is in the Air!

2009-02-06T10:01:00.001-07:00

Christmas Pictures

2009-01-23T18:17:00.005-07:00

Birthday Cake!

2009-01-23T18:04:00.005-07:00

Every Year for my children I try to make a cake that they will love. Last year for Brigham we did the Candy Land game board. Brigham thought that was heaven and there was nothing I could do to top it. This past year all he has talked about have been semi- trucks. This fascination took place after watching Transformers. So, we made a Semi-truck and it was a hit! next year he has already asked for Lightning Mcqueen. We will see. Brigham had a great Birthday topped off with a real fun game of, pin the tail on the donkey. We figured none of our kids have ever played so they would really get a kick out of it.

Happy Birthday Brigham!

2009-01-13T17:03:00.005-07:00

Brigham Flake Parry was born on January 15th 2005 ! 6 lbs. 110z. with beautiful silver hair! It must have been not that common because when I was back at the same hospital having Bennett nurses there remembered him and his hair color. I never got a picture that would do it justice! How random. We love him sooooo much! our family would not be complete with out him in it!! Happy birthday Brigham!!!

The Ghost of Christmases Past

2008-12-11T17:18:00.016-07:00

I thought it would be fun to put up a few favorite pictures from past Christmases. Wish I could have put them all up! Merry Christmas to you all!!!!!!

Christmas Tree Hunting

2008-12-10T18:55:00.010-07:00

Like Christmases past, we went out in search of a Christmas tree in the mountains. A tradition we all love. This year however we tried something new. We took horses! We hauled up Ezra and Denny. Emmaline rode with me and the boys rode with Samuel on Ezra. We all had so much fun as we went on snowy roads,hill sides and through creeks. The snow was falling all around. It was BEAUTIFUL! We rode till we found a tree we liked that would fit in our limited space. The kids all got to take a turn sawing. They thought that was pretty cool and then we had then haul it to the truck(it was not that far) When it was all done we put the horses away and let the kids play and build a snowman. Bennett just stayed in one place and ate snow. He thought that was the best! Brigham did not want to leave, and wanted the snowman to come with us.It was a great experience and we didn't even get stuck! I love Christmas!!!!!I love my Family!!!!!

My Three Amigos

2008-12-07T20:22:00.007-07:00

The other night for fun we decided to watch a movie together. Samuel choose, The Three Amigos. Emmaline sat and watched with interest while Brigham and Bennett's interest in the movies went in and out. It was great fun and a good night. Two days ago, the kids were all playing outside on their stick horses. Out of no where Emmaline, pulled her horse to a stop, got her brothers attention and then said really loud, " We are the three amigos" the boys followed suit and for the rest of the night continued to shout out " We are the three amigos" and played this for hours. Now, every once in awhile they say it and run off to get the horses and play.
I am so grateful for them and hope they will always be the best of friends!

Grateful!

2008-11-18T19:21:00.006-07:00

My Children and I read a book before bed, Thanks for Thanksgiving. In it it listed many things to be grateful for. All of which I myself and children are grateful for. I hope our families and our friends know just how grateful we are for them! What a wonderful time of year to ponder on all the things we are so blessed with

Dick and Jane

2008-11-02T20:39:00.004-07:00

Here is Dick and Jane and the black team we call, Black and Blue

So, my new love in life is driving! I can not get enough of it! At least twice a week we take out of Bud and Buck to go out and drive. This last week I got the best news ever- Delbert, the owner of the Ranch that Samuel is managing bought TWO more teams from an amish community, which spoke german. SO, we named them and spent saturday driving them around.It was such a blast!!!! Brigham already claims the black ones as his and is very protective. It is so cute. After Samuel was done, Emmaline decided she wanted to try to rope a calf from the fence. To our amazement she did rope one and was very proudof herself. The hard part was trying to get the rope off. It turned out to be a rodeo before we were done.

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-02T20:17:00.005-07:00

This last part of October was very busy for us, as we lived it up with fun! For starters we carved pumpkins, went to the ward Halloween Party, where we were in the top four for our costumes. We were a family of pirates. We Went to Lisa's to decorate halloween cookies- which was a blast, thank you Lisa! Had our first ever parent-teacher conference which was awesome! Emmaline is amazing and then of Course Halloween night we went to the ward Trunk or treat and then to a few houses with Samuel when he got home from work. We have had a lot of fun! Emmaline got to wear her costume to school and thought that was just the best thing ever. The next day, when she woke up she told me that she was grateful to have back her old hair. I guess she didn't really like all that stiffness from the green hair spray.

Halloween Sugar cookies!

2008-10-20T13:40:00.002-07:00

Every October, The kids and I have a tradition of making sugar cookies. We actually make them for every holiday because they are one of Samuel's favorites! Emmaline and Brigham have fun cutting out Halloween sugar cookies and picking out what cookie cutter they will use. It is always a big decision. I love them so much!!!

Brigham LOVES to cook!!! and to wear moms aparon! Today he helped mom make an apple pie. From trying to cut the apples, stir the sugar in the apples, roll the pie crust and then fold the edges. What would I do with out such a big helper!

Having fun at the Park

2008-10-18T13:04:00.000-07:00

Fall outings!

2008-10-16T19:14:00.005-07:00

Emmaline had the last week and a half off for Spud Harvest! So, we spent much time going out for fall walks! They All love to be outside . When I tell them it is cold, they just say, " we don't care, we love the cold!" They are so Cute!

A nice, crisp morning walk around the Nature Park with the Kids, and of course, Parker and Lisa Banks!

Emmaline joins Parker in the stroller!

Brigham tries to help out!

Calling all scraps!

2008-10-09T17:46:00.003-07:00

Being in Rexburg, in a married student ward, of course we are surrounded by many babies. To fight my own baby hunger , I have tried to take up sewing as much as possible( whenever I can find time with 3 kids!) One projet I decided I wanted to do was make a Cathedral window quilt. To do that I need 484 squares of muslin and 736 other squares of print. I have been trying to collect scraps to cut out the print squares I need. If you know any one that has any, and would just throw them away, I would love them!! Maybe I am crazy for even thinking I can do this. Since it will take a lot of time I have also been sewing other baby items. Burp diapers, quilts, dresses, slippers, nursing covers and so on. These get done quick and go to good homes!

She did it!!!!

2008-10-09T13:32:00.004-07:00

Samuel is always teaching the kids how to rope. Two weeks ago while at work with Samuel he let her practice on the two ponies. SHe had so much fun and even roped them 3 times! Brigham took a turn as well. Bennett decided he wanted a turn, so we let him in and with the rope in his hands, took after them running. We could not stop laughing and had to move him before he got kicked. It was so much fun.

2008-10-09T13:28:00.001-07:00

On friday nights we take the kids out to the livestock center and let them play in the dirt, rope the cow and ride their horse Denny. It is always so much fun for them!

Priesthood Session

2008-10-09T13:10:00.004-07:00

One of my favorite things about General Conference is the Preisthood session.I know that I am not able to attend, but I love it anyway! My mom, sisters and I would spend the time making homemade pizza together and visiting at the same time. We would wait till the men got back and then we would eat together and my father and brothers would talk to us and report about what was taught. I always looked forward to that small tradition that I love so much. Since I was unable to be near family, my children and I made pizza together for samuel and waited for his arrival. They loved being able to trow on what ever they wanted! Brigham and Bennett did more eating than anything else! I have got the best children in the whole world and husband!

A trip to the Sand dunes- Finally!!

2008-09-18T18:43:00.005-07:00

When we first moved to Rexburg we went to the sanddunes twice a week to help keep every sane, trying to adjust to a small apartment. We were unable to go during the past two semesters, so our first weekend back we made it a priority for us. Brigham was out of control due to his excitement!! There could be no better place in the world for a little boy than a giant Sand pit!

My Irish twins

2008-09-16T15:20:00.004-07:00

At least once a week I am asked if my two boys are twins! On Friday as we were waiting outside of Emmaline's school, another mom asked me if they were twins. I replied no. She then said, are they Irish twins- I have never heard that term before. So I just laughed and said, well, they are only 18 months apart. She said, isn't that what an Irish twin is? So, I went home and looked it up;The term “Irish twins” is used to describe two children born to the same mother within 12 months of each other or born in the same calendar year. so, we are close but not that close. Who knows, they may be the closest thing we get to twins!!

Emmaline Started School

2008-09-16T14:57:00.006-07:00

We are a little behind getting these on, but better late then never.Here are a couple pictures of Emmalines First day of School! She has loved it!! Samuel walked her to class and then Samuel, Brigham, Bennett, Uncle Lawrence and I went to pick her up. The boys could not wait to see her! neither could we, actually.

Our First Blog. Blog?

2008-09-01T21:05:00.009-07:00

Blog. Say that a few times and think about what a stupid word that is. Blog. Why don't they call it something else. That is half the reason I have resisted setting up a blog. It's a combination of blob and log or bog and lob.
Anyway, the creation of a Samuel and Amy Parry family blog has become more justifiable now that Amy's parents have moved to Mexico. Check out their new blog www.mexichans.blogspot.com. Their blog title is a play on the word mexican and their last name which is Channer. It sounds kinda like mexican only it's mexichan and it really is quite clever... quite clever indeed. Supposedly they like our children and miss seeing their angel faces. This blog (or blob on a log) is a venue for them to enjoy the visual pleasure that photographs of my children provide. This enjoyment is not limited to my mother and father inlaws however. We hope people will check in from time to time to see what is going on with the family (if time does not allow a personal email or phone call).
Another reason for the blog, a secondary reason (so far) is that I have been really impressed with Zach's use of a blog as his journal and his dedication to keeping it current. This blog might turn into that for us. For now it will be a compilation of random posts and pictures that we appreciate and hope that others will as well. This may not work at all. In other words, this is a massive experiment and may be abandoned at anytime. Enough of the blog introduction. Check back for more posts to come. I'm a blogger... I blog... I blog.