Family 2021

January

1-1 Friday - New Years resolutions this year will be paired with our Come Follow Me goals. With the lords help maybe they will last past February. I am going to take care of my nails again. Keeping them painted or not. Not halfway peeling. I want to do indexing at least once a week. Interact more in my calling. Try not to yell at my children as much. “don't get mad: take a picture.” Church magazines are re-branded and condensed. THE FRIEND for children. YOUTH-teens. LIAHONA- for adults. Greater online presence and wider circulation, and more languages.

1-5 Tuesday- First Dentist appointment since I was pregnant with Zara. New place in Wendell. They were very friendly and accommodating with my kids but didn't take our Health Savings Account Card. Not sure about them.

1-8 Friday- Kids not even back a week when I have to pull them out again. Chickenpox. The week before the Smiths had a Christmas party. The Dimonds didn't bring their kids cuz they had chickpox. Totally asked for a playdate. I was hoping to get them naturally but had all but given up. Apparently the incubation is like 20-40 days. So it was a surprise. The 3 younger got them. Axel was the worst. Mace so so. Zara had like 2.

1-10 Sunday- Married 12 Years. A pat on the back is in order. Seems like another day. This time in our lives is hard with kids and work. Taking/ finding time to do something special seems a waste. Money could be used elsewhere. Always busy. An undisturbed Sunday nap seems just as much of a treat as a fancy dinner. Quarantined with chickenpox anyway so oh well.

1-19 Tuesday- Preston had a dentist appointment yesterday. His assessment is “they are thorough if a little rough” Rhett's B-day at Mikes. We go to support the kids but it is a little uncomfortable. Especially with his colorful family; like his niece Brooke. She's in her 30's but dresses like a skanky 16 year old with tattoos and piercings. Emily idolizes her and I know it makes her Mom Brooke nervous.

1-20 Wednesday- Here's one for the books. Getting the kids ready for school. Someone starts banging on the door. I open it to a disheveled young women. “Oh please help me. I'm frozen and lost and fell and have blood all over my pants. Please can I come in.” I bring her in to the couch start some hot water for cocoa and go wake up Preston. When I tell him what she said he sits up-”Don't let her in and call the police.” Well she was already in the living room and I had to get the kids ready for school if he could just sit up with us in case she pulled a knife or something. Her manner was slightly drunken or high? Sightly confused? Definitely Crazy. Her phone was dead she couldn't remember her boyfriends number. Waiting for it to charge I ask questions and she rambles off her story. They were visiting a friends house when he wondered off. She thinks she fell in a ditch and got knocked out. There is a bump on the back of her head. What she said was blood is actually mud. When she first came in her clothes and backpack were covered with frost. So the fact she had been wondering and was frozen was true. Her name was Zoey. Her Boyfriend worked construction was from Utah. Her Brother was a welder at C.S.I. When she finally got a hold of her boyfriend I was glad Preston was there. He was scared pissed and you could hear that over the phone. Preston finally took the phone and yelled back. “Listen man you just shut the hell up. She's safe here. You calm down and listen to me or I'll call the cops and you can sort this out with them.” When he found our house Preston went out first to meet him and make sure she was safe. “She may be crazy but she's under my care and I'm not just letting her go to anyone.” I was so stinking proud of my man. Preston is a great protector, husband, father, provider, leader, lover. I felt safer with him. More confident knowing he is there. It's a huge responsibly and he just takes it.

1-22 Friday- Katana and Axel both got temple rings at Activity Days. Katana's in white. Axel in black. In conjunction with their CTR rings: The theme behind it is “ The temple is our goal” That they should be learning and making goals in preparation for the covenants they will make.

1-23 Saturday- Mike is friends with the lady who owns 1000 springs. She gave him a discount for Rhetts birthday. People love it because it's inside. But I think that is the only good feature. It's overly chlorinated, the slide is in the shallow end but you can't use it if you can't swim alone. Has 4-5 over zealous life guards. The water is cold. You can't kneel or stand on the log. No floaties in the deep end and no catching them so basically none of my kids can use the diving boards. Nope if it wasn't free I probably wouldn't go here. On the way home the Expedition started sounding funny and we lost all power. Preston was fearful we threw a rod or something.

He stopped and we waited for Mike to save us. He pulled us home. We've been talking about getting one with more cargo space anyway. Now we'll just be looking for real.

February

2-6 Saturday- Charlie and Cassandra welcomed their first baby a boy Braxton Clyde Amy11:37am 7lbs 14oz 21.5 inches long. They will probably be the only ones contributing to Delwin's posterity.

2-7 Sunday- Mace was screaming in the shower when I went to check on him he was doing the “cold water challenge.” Some youtube he saw where you see how long you can stand under ice water. Katana wanted to learn to sew. She wanted to make a mask. “If I have to wear one I want to look good.” So we made a pattern and she's been making a few. We call them Fancy Pants masks. She puts lace, flowers and embellishments on them. Axel wanted to make some boy ones. I had a little spider-man material left over from a pillow case project and some green camo. We made string for spider-man to hold and a yarn beard for the camo. If I wasn't so against masks I might wear one myself. Some kids at school asked about them. Katana and Axel started selling them for $1-$3-$5. Thankfully at school masks are optional. The bus is mandatory; not for lack of trying. We've had our battles with the bus driver on what constitutes for a mask. My lace creations didn't quite cut it for them and her double layer movement didn't jive with me. We came to an agreement with the face shield for Axel. “Mom I can breath in this one.” The situation sucks but I am proud of my kiddos entrepreneurial spirit.

2-9 Tuesday- Katana and Mace booth lost teeth today. Both waited so long they basically fell out while they were talking. Preston and I had temple recommend interviews. First time we've left Katana in charge for that amount of time. It was suppose to be a quick in out. However the mask mandates as it may pertain to temple attendance was brought up and sparked a discussion on Obedience Vs. Pride in a spiritual setting. The Interview lasted well over an hour. When we got back to the car we had several missed calls. The first voice message was Katana in a panic. Zara was crying and wouldn't be comforted. The next said Zara had thrown up. There were three or four and her voice of desperation and pleading nearly broke my heart, “Mom where are you? I don't know what to do. How much longer?” The last had me in full tears. She was calm with a brave resolve in her voice. “Mom I cleaned up the mess. I know you said to be in bed but I can't get Zara to stay in bed. I hope you come home soon. I really need you.” She got lots of hugs, kisses and kudos.

2-10 Wednesday- Mace's 'tooth money” was burning a hole in his pocket. He used it to buy 5 little gold fish for his teddy tank. Zara is 3 for 3 today. #1 tried to kill maces fish my dumping the whole bottle of food in. #2 took out all my sewing pins. Sticking them in the bed, chair arm and scattering them on the floor. I have a magnetic base but I'm not 100% confident I found them all. Time will tell. #3 She hit the computer screen Carrie style with a bottle of nail polish. Instant spiderweb across the screen. Mace lost another tooth. That's two in two days for him and 3 total this week. Busy tooth fairy. The kids were told they were not allowed to sell things at school. Also a flier sent home that the high school is selling masks with the Wendell logo. Conflict of interest? So much for a free market economy.

2-11 Thursday- Preston was late coming home from getting a new computer because he stopped to help someone change a tire. You can't even get mad at that. Proud wife moment. yeah that's my man, changes tires for people. They give talks in church about acts like that.

2-12 Friday- I told Mace he needed to eat two more bites of dinner before he could be done. He said he already did. “Really cuz I didn't see any food in your mouth.” He immediately puffed his cheeks and started pretend chewing. The stern face I meant to portray was ruined as I laugh choked on my own food.

2-14 Sunday- First day back to church building in a long time. Feels like a homecoming. Not a lot of people came as it's still being broadcast. Every other row sign was “purposely” ignored by my husband. What to do. Follow him into the bench or “purposely” sit one up. Dimonds think it's silliness too so they didn't mind we broke rules and sat just behind them. And yes we got noticed. The kids love to color or the sheet rock down the hallway. I found a note from Katana that made me giggle. “I don't like Mace, he does not clean!!! He is my brother so I love him but Waa.”

2-17- Wednesday- Made cookies with Mace and Zara. As they sat licking the beaters I told them some Mom's don't let their kids eat the cookie dough. Mace was shocked. “oh that's just sad” Later he comes to me “Mom I'm gonna fart.” He grunts a little then stops with a surprise face “oops just kidding” and waddles to the bathroom. Took me a good minute to recover before I could to go help. After school snack was a bag of chips. I find Mace crushing his bag up. “Its so I can have more.” Zara brought me a new diaper to put on. It was cute because it's one of the first times she's done that. Its good except now I have to find the old one.

2-19 Friday- Axel gets to start activity days this year. His first real activity was to tour the high school band room and see the different instruments. He even got to play on the drum set. He was supper stoked. Katana and mace practiced driving around the parking lot. For an hour activity it's not worth it to come all the way home so we just hang out.

2-20-Saturday- The church put on a virtual event called Friend to Friend geared to 3-12 years old. For the primary kids but it was entertaining for me too. They sang songs, showed how to draw a child praying, talked with an apostle, explained how to make a rock picture, and showed primary kids from around the world doing service. It was cute, entertaining and much needed. The kids have really missed primary. I've tried with my kids at home but it's not the same as primary.

2-27 Saturday- Jerome library had a Boots and Books Event. You got to pick a book and got a pair of rainbow striped rain boots. They had a few games and samples too. We were the first ones there and probably one of three families that could speak English. We jokingly pronounce Jerome- “hair-O-may” sometimes.

2-28 Sunday- Fuzz ball died today. The kids fed the horses after church and found her. Axel came in “mom are we prepared for Fuzz to die?” I really wasn't. I think I was more upset then the kids. Axel tried to comfort me. “Well maybe she's just asleep?” “We can look for another one?” I cut her tail and mane and made horse hair tassels for each family. And each of my kids. Preston will haul her off at some point. It feels cruel but the the ground is frozen so we can't bury her.

March

3-2 Tuesday- We have been looking for a dog. My idea is a fluffy house dog. Preston would love like a St. Bernard. We just don't have the space or animals for a working dog. We definitely don't have the bank account for a name brand. We found some cowboy corgis in Gooding for $300 and jumped. That's how we ended up with a mini blue heeler/ collie /corgi mix. A white and black pup named Cookie.

3-4 Thursday- Mace was holding himself tightly. When I asked if he needed to go potty he said “ No I'm making my peepee stronger.” As a parent you have the most oddly innocent uncomfortably normal talks sometimes. We are not inside dog people. Day one we knew Cookie needed a fence. She sleeps inside in her kennel in the porch but is outside most of the day. She is very active. Kids love her. Even Mace is getting over his fear of dogs by having a small one of his own. R.S. birthday dinner activity. Sister Smith and two of her daughters demonstrated river dancing. It was a come follow me goal they had set during covid.

3-8 Monday – Took me a few days and lots of tears but I finally finished Katanas scripture case. I unstitched the one my mom made me when I was 8 and used its pieces as a template. Looks pretty good if I do say so myself. Maces roblox quit working. To reinstall it I had to pass a set of 3 challenge questions. Nine pictures featuring different orientation of dice with only one adding up to 14 in under 10 seconds. I tried for like an hour. I was so frustrated. Preston came home and his challenge question first time. “pick the box with a train” WHAT! At dinner Axel pointed out our cat cleaning itself...all over. “Look a cat doing yoga”. It looked very limber with one leg straight up in the air.

3-9 Tuesday- We live like 10 miles from one of the largest nesting of Bald Eagles in North America. It's called “Eagle Tree.” There is a little restaurant / store in front of the property too called West Point. We decided to check it out. Dinner was a small pricey hamburger with no extras. It feels like an old establishment. But a dying one. I think it could be a great touristy attraction with some upgrades? New management? It's just the edge of someones property. Probably family drama dragging it down. The big old trees look half dead. It's a shame because their were still 10-20 birds and we were at the end of the season. Glad we came while we could.

3-13 Saturday- Mace is so literal sometimes it comes off as cheeky. I have a video on the tablet I want to play for the kids at lunch one day. I'm thinking out loud “where can I put the tablet?” Mace - “where we can see it.” I dyed my hair again. Purple. My supportive family says it looks like I got beat up by a grape. Quick trip to I.F. for Hattie's Baptism. Katana was asked to be a witness. She was so nervous and honored. Marc was Marc and pissed off Kris and Angie so Nick's family was the only ones to stay for the luncheon.

3-17 Wednesday- Chick Days is here. We got a dozen meat birds. I invented a chick pocket which was a stroke of genius to maybe keep some from getting 'loved to death'. They are close but not being “cuddled to sleep' is the hope. Axel gave up his swing and spent recess pushing a little girl on it. He really does have a heart of gold. Zara is showing some interest in using the potty. She wants to sit on it if nothing else. I ordered baby shark underwear. A worksheet Axel brought home today was touching. I am lucky because: “I have a dad, I can pet my dog, I can skate, I am lucky.” Yes you are.

3-18 Thursday- Signed the kids up for soccer. I was only going to put Katana in. Then they said Axel could be in her group so why not. Then Axel's age needed a coach and if I volunteered I could get one kids fees waived plus coordinate their practices with the other coach so still only one trip to town. I ended up setting Monday-Wednesdays after school 4pm-5pm. Katanas coach wanted Tuesday-Thrusdays 5:45-6:45? What no. plus my field was booked those days already. Whatever it's fine. Katana woke us up about 2 am saying Zara was sick. She had blue lips was lethargic and almost unresponsive. She couldn't breath and didn't sound right. Preston was concerned enough we made a midnight run to the hospital in Gooding. It ended up being Croup. It was our first kid with it. We had no clue. No tell tell cough just hard wheezy intakes. It was so scary. We did a breathing treatment. It was a long night. Preston stayed in the car and tried to get some sleep. She was sporting her first black eye from playing with siblings. Thankfully they weren't too worried about it and they weren't Nazis about the masks so I was able to snuggle, sing, kiss and comfort her the whole time.

3-21 Sunday- Katana and Mace both had prayers in church. Mace got his finger caught in the folding chairs. Probably could have used stitches but it closed up nicely by the time we got home. A little super glue and voila. Katana and Axel have learned to wall climb like spider-man. Axel can stand with no hands. Mace wants to but needs someone to put him up. Zara can't reach between the two even laying down. Its a huge disappointment for her. It's our spring break so kids and I headed to Utah. We had a little snow but made it in one piece.

3-24 Wednesday- We biked to a new park every day. Axel crash hard on the hoover board. We had 7 kids on 5 different things going along a 4 lane main highway. Syringa's “adventures” are never the safest but they are memorable. We had a hot dog roast with a few of her neighbors. One night we called Brendon on facetime. He was trying to help explain soccer to me. Drawing with X's and O's. Offside. Goal kick. I told them my soccer knowledge came from the movie “She's The Man.” But they didn't mind. Youtube has been very helpful this past week. We've also been watching this “Durecell Bunny” tictoc dance. We want to learn it. McCarty comes out “Brendon turn the screen” She is wearing a bunny costume complete with ears and when the music starts she does the opening move 'bunny hop” and a good attempt at the rest of it. We are all on the floor. Brendon can hardly hold the camera still. Timber came for part of a day. Darlin and Denim both had competitions in St. George Saturday. I should have made more of an effort to go. She is super busy running to work, rodeos and dance practices. She looks tired with a brave face. She also brought some hammy-down bras of Darlin's for Katana. She was super excited to wear them. End of day one Katana comes to me “mom this is super uncomfortable.” Welcome to the world of womanhood.

3-27 Saturday- Dan and Malena's family arrived at our house late afternoon yesterday. We took them to Banbary. Jd's family, Grandma & Grandpa, Brooke and kids trickled in after breakfast. They brought motorbikes. We set a circle path in the corner and even dug a few baby jumps. I don't especially like motorbikes. I think they get dangerous fast. Everyone wants to jump or race or both. But they had a blast. No one got hurt so win. Later we took a hike to Malad Gorge. It's been in the news cuz last week (17^th) a truck and trailer got windswept over the edge. The safety chains on the trailer kept it from plummeting. A trucker stopped and got a bigger chain attached. The elderly couple dangled for an hour and a half over the abyss before being safely rescued. It's quite a sight. There is still some debris in the bottom. We hiked to the edge of the cliff to look over at the water plant. Then back to the park for lunch and dancing. Echo is the P.E. Teacher and had recently done the Virginia real with her students. We got everyone but Preston to participate. It was a blast. The kids caught on fast and really enjoyed it. Later we headed to Mikes to go fishing. We probably caught 100 fish between us all. Dinner was late with the guys staying to clean fish. Us girls stayed up late talking. Apparently i'm super unobservant because Malena got a boob job from A to DD Style. I went swimming with her and didn't notice. Now I know how could I not have noticed. They look good. Not out of place. Really natural but still how do you not notice. She has a figure. She was waiting for us to ask. She was more then happy to show. I totally felt her up too. They look hard. It's like when you hold your arms up and your boobs are super round. Kind of fascinating. Brooke and Trujillo recently took a car trip to something. He is really good....practically, professionally. I know he helps a lot of people. I'm proud of his accomplishments. Sometimes it's just hard being his sister. Brooke was praising his water spout metaphor. How you have to release the tension/ pressure even if your life is full of good things or you'll explode. You can't just blow it up. You have to release it slow. Let go of one thing. Change one thing. And then only be putting “water” in your tank. That's deep.

3-28 Sunday- Why would people drink if a hangover feels anything like a late night girl talk/laugh/cry session coupled with early morning cousin/children/chaos? Kelly's left after a home church. It's still broadcasting. We took a Sunday nap. Preston gave me a blessing to start my soccer coaching career tomorrow. Wish me luck.

April

4-1 Thursday- I could not find Zara this morning. Woke up one morning. No Zara.  Couldn't find her - no response.  Nearly called the cops. Finally found her in the baby chick house. For R.S. It was a Walk Threw Jesus Life. Each room represented a time or story. Birth-young carpenter apprentice- ministry - miracles - death. The last was the Smiths with the resurrection. Mary at the empty tomb. We watched a little video and then when the lights came on Jesus was standing by her. I hadn't seen big John step around the “tent” and his face was away from the audience so it was just Sister Kathleen Smith. She did a phenomenal job of looking with love and adoration up at her lord. It was really powerful.

4-3 Saturday- Wendell Easter Egg Hunt. I think they were trying to make up for not having one last year. Tons of plastic eggs filled with more than just candy; coupons and money. Turn out was less so my kids got tons more. We dyed our eggs outside because it was a beautiful day. Kids made a huge mess but not in the house so a lot easier to deal with. Preston popped his knuckles. Zara thought it was so cool. She tried to pop her own. I thought he might dislocate one trying so hard. Preston pulled on her toes instead. She didn't think that was so cool. She was upset he had broken them.

4-4 Sunday- Mace got his “own self dressed.” Just needed a little help getting it down off the hanger and buttoned up. Zara found her own church shoes. They were her play princess slippers but good effort. I asked Mace who his new teachers were. “You know. It's the only dad in my class wearing a white shirt with blond hair.” His description of Brother Bean was adorable. Zara tried to get her own glass of milk. It only over flowed a little and she was so proud. Cookie found and played with a poopie diaper. A bath was reprimand enough.

6-5 Monday- I splurged on a new vacuum. I've needed one for a while. Preston had to slice the cord on my old one. Syringa has one; which got me researching. It's $399 so took some convincing. It's amazing. A Quantum X Water Filter Vacuum. I took the carpet challenge they have online. Vacuum with your old one. Then the Quantum. I was happily disgusted how filthy the water was. I had to dump after each room. One hiccup was two arrived. I must have pushed the back button or something when ordering. Thankfully customer service was awesome and took it back. Gave me a refund.

6-6 Tuesday- Mace wasn't listening so I said his full name. He turned slowly confused. “ Mom why did you say my name like I was mean to someone?” Later I started singing the Collin Raye song If You Get There Before I Do. I didn't even get through the chores before he comes and snuggles on my lap misty eyed. It must have spoken to his heart. “Why would you sing something like that?”
If you get there before I do; don't give up on me. I'll meet you when my chores are through; I don't know how long I'll be; but I'm not gonna let you down; darling wait and see; and between now and then until I see you again; I'll be lovin' you; love, me.

4-8 Thursday- Mace said a prayer to find something. He had to look but did find it eventually. I thought he'd be happy but he was concerned. “Why didn't God put an image in my head where it was? I prayed but I had to find it?” It's a thought I've had too lately. I've realized God answers our prayers the easiest simplest ways. I said “He didn't put an image in your head because he knew your eyes were good enough.” Talking to Preston about this concept I had the scenario of God's not going to thwart a robbery by telling you the narrative “ A burglar is scouting your house. You need to switch on and off all the lights on the east side for 5 minuets.” Instead he prompts you to check on your sleeping kids. Knowing your afraid of the dark and would do all that any way. I think back a few years ago Sister Pope said those times you follow the spirit and nothing happened or came of it. “would you want to know what happens if you didn't?” Here is a conversation I over heard from the boys in the bathtub. Axel “hey don't touch your pee pee?” Mace- “why not” A- “Because it will fall off if you touch it too much.” M- “no it wont” A- “yes it will” M- “oh like the whole thing or just this part.” A- “The whole thing and this and that and your leg and then you'll die” M- “oh No” A- “Yeah”

4-9 Friday- Our last orthodontist appointment. Katana got her braces off. Phase one went faster than they expected. Everyone is happy. Covid sucks in a lot of ways but also facilitates positive change. Like a greater online presence of stores, auto pay like Venmo and my favorite--Walmart pickup. So easy. So Fast. They load it for you. If my trunk weren't broken with a spare key jammed in as a handle I wouldn't even have to get out of the car. In fact they prefer you don't. Social distancing is just an excuse not to have to be social.

4-11 Sunday- Zara Boo is Two. She loves playing in my makeup so she got her own "playset” for her birthday. She still knows where Katana's real stuff is. Of course she finds the brightest red lipstick to smear all over her face and tights and toes. She also got baby shark undies early; which she wore and kept dry for 1 week before announcing in a complete sentence that she didn't want baby sharks; only her diaper back. Grandma Dixie and Grandpa Calvin stopped by yesterday for a few minuets to celebrate. Zara is Grandpa's girl. She's special and knows it. Mom got her a unicorn horse toy. Perfect because her cake is suppose to be a supirse unicorn head. As seen on pintrest but I Nailed it! The boys made fun of my swamp monster but thought the suprise (skittles in the hollowed out middle) was neat. To a two year old it was perfect and thats what mattered. Zara is very independent (starting the “myself” phase), resourceful (she wants it...she'll get it with or without your help...safer with) and completely adorable. She loves her animals and her “kids”. Everyone loves Baby Goose, Curls, or Zoo. OH can't believe my baby's two.

4-17 Saturday- My soccer team won again. We got three goals. Axel scored one. They are doing so good and it's actually really fun. Telise Hatfield got married and we attended her reception in Boise. Used the trip to pick up some cabinets for the toy room also. It was from a Muslim family. I think the husband had to Ok the wife to come help us or something. We were a little early and rang the door bell then he texted he was at work but would send someone. Then she just came out. Dressed for a wedding Vs. plain veiled. Kind of awkward. Trujillo showed up for about 5 minuets. Left sick family to drive 2 hours to stay 5 minuets. Awesome but why? Kids had to go to the bathroom. Mace had pooped his pants. He was sad and scared and wouldn't let Axel help. Axel came to get me just as Mace started yelling for me. What to do? He was in the Mens bathroom? The media would have us believe it's racist to be separated still but in IDAHO we still have boundaries. I was at loss. A man coming out said it was all clear and watched the door for me so I could get Mace. Coming out he said “Your a good mama.” It's one of those times you don't feel like you have it all together so it was a kindness he'll never know.

4-19 Monday- Diamond had her second baby. I was disappointed for a few seconds that it wasn't a girl. Then all babies are cute and it's fun to get them. We named it Swirl because it is brown and white paint. For the first day or so he will is curious and innocent and will come. Diamond is really protective so we have to separate them if we want the kids to be able to pet it.

4-21 Wednesday- Ralayna participated in The Distinguished Women of Mini Cassia County Competition. Formerly known as Jr. Miss America Pageant. McCarty came up to see it as well. She did Miss Toquerville and Ralayna took a lot of inspiration from her. Cart was taken a back. (there were 3 of us. Of coarse I was going to win. This is way more.) I'm not sure Ralayna knew that. Not sure she was allowed to know that. #brotherissues. She was amazing and beautiful and poise. She was worried about her question and prayed to pull a certain one she had practiced. She got it and crushed it. She placed top 5 in Interview $400, self expression $300, Talent $350 ( a vocal performance of Nella Fantasia, by Ennio Morricone) Her voice is outstanding so no surprise we knew she had that in the bag. It was a total shock however when she was announced the OVERALL WINNER. A scholarship to C.S.I., 1 year gym membership, $500 photo gallery shoot, all expenses to state DYW competition, and $1800 in prize money. I think Trujillo actually swore. It was a lot of fun, but a LOT of work and more ahead. We were so glad we were able to support her. We cheered and shout and celebrated even if no one else did. Could? Was allowed to be proud of her. Humility first even if you just crushed the competition or just did this amazing thing! #brotherissues. Yes girl be the star! Be loud and proud and real for once! Preston was a rock star to watch all 5 babies alone. Or as he said “yes Katana did a great job”

4-29 Thursday Wendell Pride day at school. Kids both have a Wendell Trojan logo shirt to wear. At home we wore our NEF family reunion shirts. I have been watching pintrest again. I tried my hand at a Daddy's shirt to Baby romper. They don't have a pattern really just the idea. Next time I need to think bigger. She'll only wear it once before it's too small. Still cute. Mace is really taking off with reading and loves ABC Ya online learning games. We've been working out of the book “learn to read in 100 lessons.” Zara is happy when anyone will read to her and I'm excited/sad it doesn't always have to be me. Katana and Axel take turns and Mace does a few by memory. I scanned some of Axels work pages from month. They are usually scribbled or wadded up in the bottom of his backpack where his water bottle leaked. These were OK condition and the content was endearing. #1 with his spelling. To show he's actually really good. “Once upon a time I made a helicopter and I was flying but the engigne turned off and I had a umbrella and I floted down. The end.” #2 “One day thire was a lonely dog nameed sawed he saw a alien nameed fall they likeed eachother and went to the moves and watched a scary moves. The end”

May

5-1 Saturday Last soccer games of the season. We called my team "Sharks" and not that we kept score...but we were undefeated. Even without all star JR I think we still would have won. I actually enjoyed being a coach even though I didn't know anything going in. I liked my whistle. Katana while not overly aggressive was able to learn the game, run, make friends and enjoyed the experience. In the end we all did. Headed directly to Arco afterwards. Mom and Dad had some Electrical work on the house they bought and are fixing up. Kids and I spent the day with Malena's kids. When the guys got home Dan decided to take us up King Mountain for a weenie roast. The approaching storm clouds just added to the "Adventure".

5-4 Tuesday Warming up so been working more outside. Getting chicken coop cleaned up. Zara comes out and has a fistful of cash. “Oh no where is this come from?” I follow her trail back in the yard and house finding dollars fluttering on the ground. Thankfully it wasn't a windy day. She found a roll of 20 $1 bills in the car. I think I found them all. She pooped on the potty today. Not cuz shes potty trained just saw her grunting and ran. Mace went to take a nap in my bed but first turned and hit my pillow. Why? “So I don't get your purple hair dye on me.” Yes fun splat colors but they do bleed on everything for a long time.

5-5 Wednesday I was called or recalled or not released as Primary Secretary. Best case scenario really when bishop wants to meet and says “bring your husband”. I was trying to count. I think it's been 8 years? 5 presidency's? Sister Robyn Hope, Kara Jessup, Chelsey Sims, and me.

5-7 Friday Ralayna played Dolly Levi in Minico's production of Hello Dolly. She did better than big nose Barbra Streisand in the movie. I heard from multiple people (not in our group or knowing who I was) that "she was fabulous and made the the show." You could hear the lyrics and her vocal range is impressive. Katana, Axel and I met up with Mom, Dad, Syringa and Colvin. My two youngest got to stay and play with cousins at Trujillo's house. Mace and Hyrum had a little squabble. Trujillo got after them. When it was over Trujillo talked with Mace to make sure they were Ok. Mace- “Oh ya I like your way much better. It's much nicer than my Dad.” Aka he didn't get his butt kicked.

5-8 Saturday We talked about the play so much on the way home and next morning that Mace begged to go. Date night. I combed his hair slick missionary style. He immediately mussed it up “now you think I look handsome.” I do like the spiky look. I was afraid he would be antsy (Colvin begged to come and almost didn't make it). He loved it. Totally engaged and understanding the plot. I didn't mind sitting through it a second time. It really was entertaining. They cast it perfectly and everyone did a great job. So glad we live close enough to support my talented niece.

5-9 Sunday- Mothers Day- Kids filled out school papers for Mothers day. They are so sweet. Spelling included Katana “My favorite game to play with you is [Life] If you were an animal you'd be a [chickan] because [ you probly will be a grat chickan. You mite find a good plas to leey eegs] I wish we could go to [parice] because [I love you a lot that is wy] If I could I'd give you [ 100,000,000 dollors] because [that is how much I love you] I love you because [ you are the best and kiss us good by...Helping me wan I need help on enething and bing thar for me.] Axel filled in my favorites: You are good at [cooking] You relax by [sleeping] I laugh when you [ tell a joke] food [mushrooms] drink [ milk] activity [ go on a walk] song [I am a child of God] movie [ BFG].

5-15 Saturday We finally found Cheebies babies. Two black beauty's Zara adores. There were probably more. We knew she had them but couldn't find them and I swear I found some half eaten things in the hay pile a few weeks ago so I'd kind of given up hope. Miracle. Last month the bunnies got out of their cage. They were gone for 2 days before we found them in the shed and caught them. We called that day “the miracle of the bunnies.” The real miracle is they are alive at all. The kids feed and water them when I remember to remind them. You can tell they are hungry. I put chicken wire on a hog panel and put it in the yard so they could eat the grass. They loved it for about a week before they dug under and escaped. No one was sad enough to be motivated enough to catch them...again. So we let them go. They stay around and look healthier than they did in captivity. Preston got me new top soil and helped me build garden boxes. #youknowhelovesme. I am ready to plant and excited for this new set up. I told him to come in and shower. Instead he sat and played his game. Later that night when he went to clean up we were out of water. Carma? He went to the truck stop to wash at like midnight.

5-16 Sunday Preston didn't get home and in bed till like 3 a.m. At first he tried to be mad when I woke him up early to fix the water before church. I told him it was not an “ox in the mire” moment if it's your own stubborn stupidity that does it. He got it done.

5-17 Monday- Transplant my raspberries. I hope the new location will help. Kids begged to set up a kitty pool. Is there anything cutter than a baby in a wet onsie or a little boy running around in his underwear. Axel was in his undies and a winter cap. “it's still cold but I want to play” They sprinklers are a mess. Spraying the wrong way or not far enough. I give up. Katana is officially signed up for 4-H camp this summer with Kylin. It gives me a few weeks to freak out.

5-18 Tuesday Zara is having a hard time going to sleep so I put her and Mace together. That way the school kids can get their sleep. There was a glaring difference in boys and girls. Katana will spend hours snuggling and singing her to sleep. Mace yells at her to be quiet “your keeping me awake. Shut up or go away. I'm tired.”

5-19 Wednesday I transplanted a lilac bush. It's a big one so I hope it makes it. They take so long to grow. Katana was so excited for a cold lunch for her field trip to the sand dunes. Axel's walking field trip to the firehouse was canceled because they were called on a real fire. He was totally bummed. I got blood drawn again. They are looking into my thyroid. We lost one of our baby kittens. I'm going to call it resilience when Mace said “it's OK it's ether in Lucifer's belly or it found shelter?” Let's hope for the second option. Zara stayed dry all day. Whoo hooo.

5-20 Thursday There was a few wax figure displays at the high school. All the kids got a walking field trip to go see it. Axel “ They look like real people only they don't move so you know their dead.” Katana “ they're not dead exactly they are made of wax.” Axel “still creepy”

5-22 Saturday Kids and I left to Mom's in Grandview on Friday. McCarty and Kiddos are there visiting. Mace jumps out and gives Zaleah a big hug.. “she's so dang cute.” We tried swimming but the water got left on at the pools and they were too hot to go. The kids were disappointed. I helped Mom get photos off her phone and set up google photos account to automatically backup. Mom loves I-phones because they came up with face time. They aren't user friendly and aren't compatible with anyone else. Now that we have duo, google talk, Facebook live that's a loosing argument. We're easing them into change. I've been telling them about my poor baby Mace and his MEGA massive turds. They didn't believe me until they saw for themselves. He all but gives birth everyday. Usually they stand out of the water. On occasion we have to cut them up to flush. This one wasn't even the best, but they got the idea. This morning we went back to Boren's swimming. They'll be moving soon. Probably the last time in the red neck hot tubs. Dad is in "rodeo mode" excited for this next adventure. Mom I would call "gracefully holding back terror." Zaleha has been begging for a horse ride. I took her on Dunny. Halfway down the road he tripped over his own feet and we nearly fell forward over his neck. Z's leg wedged in the saddle horn is all that kept her from being catapulted off the side when he jumped back again. That sort of thing really gets your blood pumping. We dug up a dozen or so big raspberry, strawberry and one artichoke plant before heading home. I immediately plant the starts hoping to keep these ones alive. Mace stubbed his toe and Axel walks up behind him and pinches hard. When I ask what that was for? He said “now he'll focus on this and not his toe” That's a line I've used from Syringa and childhood. “You can only feel one hurt so if I hit/stomp/pinch your-----then your ----wont hurt. Or want me to step on your---so you don't feel your ----.” It's a flawed philosophy. You now just hurt twice as bad.

5-24 Monday Axel woke up with bug bites all up his leg. I've been unthawing the freezer outside the back door so we can move it into the porch. We started butchering our meat birds. We did one a few weeks ago and another before we left. I'm not sure if Zara wasn't there or just not paying attention but today she may have been traumatized. We used the tree loppers (with helpers as young as mine i've found them safer and more effective.) The bird was stretched out and when the head came off she started crying “ My chicken NO NO” At dinner Katana asked what Cookie was (as in breed). Before I could answer corgi blue heller mix Mace yells out “A dog.”

5-26 Wednesday Track and Field Day at school. The kids got to do little carnival style games and races. COVID prevented us from helping or watching. They each got to take a few bucks for snow cones and extras.

5-27 Thursday- It's the last day of school. Kids got out early. It was one of the first times all year I was able to go into the school. We took pictures with teachers got summer packets and left.

5-28 Friday As soon as school let out we headed out. Our first trip to Syringas of the summer. Her kids had ½ day Friday. They had organized an end of school Nerf gun/ pool party. Only 3 other kids besides us showed up but it was still fun. Syringa is so welcoming. Opens her home and has random get to know you/ mingle things. I need to be better. I realized I am internally super judgmental. One of the other moms was so weird. That off kind of friendly. Brought her own cooler of snacks because of germs and health issues. Talked like a super-preper that didn't know where eggs really came from. Just hard to hold a conversation with. The whole time I was praying to myself “please don't let that be how people see me. I know I'm reserved and nervous talk kind of socially awkward... but please don't let that be how I come off.” Syringa had Mom's blow up slide /pool from their last visit. Az and Zara sat in the water. I think the kids went down once or twice but the Nerf war was the real star. Syringa got like 1200 bullets on Amazon. More ammo does make a difference in battle. After people left we had a hot dog roast. Syringa got different cookies not just gram crackers. We had fancy smores. Movie night with the new Scooby Do.

5-29 Saturday I had never hiked the Y. We thought it would be a fun activity. Ha Ha. So we each had a baby on our backs. We borrowed a baby backpack for me. Herding 5 others up steep inclines. Half dragging Mace and Colvin at times. It was really hard but we made it. The older kids wanted to go go go. We'd say wait for us at the next bend. Or ask people coming down if they'd past a bunch of kids. It was disheartening when a young kid would jog passed us only to be seen a few switchbacks later already coming down. Slow and steady but we did eventually make it. The valley was beautiful spread out like that. You could see 3 or 4 temples across the valley. We stayed on top for a while recovering with lunch and snacks. Down was almost just as hard. Trying to keep upright and not get going to fast. Mace made that mistake and skinned his knee pretty bad. Seeing the spill made my tummy clench. Greg marinated Ace's steaks. It was good.

5-31 Monday We came home Sunday evening. Preston surprised me by starting the bathroom conversion. Mom and Dad officially moved this weekend. The kids wanted a BBQ. “now that it's summer that's what we do” then they wanted to sleep in a tent. “cuz it's summer now”

JUNE

6-2 Wednesday First part of June we are all jealous of Cart and Brendon who are vacationing in Hawaii. When he got off his mission his president said to keep him in the loop and when he was married 10 years there would be an surprise. His old mission president like owns one of the islands so Cart and Brendon are getting an all access trip. Sending pictures of them Skydiving has us all dreaming. Timber and Trujillo crested the hill this year. The big 4-0. Heo says he's not sure if he tripped over the edge or just slipped and is now rolling back down his side. He is determined to dust off at the bottom and keep going. Good lesson for all. Syringa called/texted them each 40 times with memories or Love ya's. Denim put together a memory board and surprised the family with Breakfast. Their birthdays reminds my family mine is next.

6-3 Thursday Our backyard is so beautiful right now. I love our trees, the swing set, my clothes line. I love putting up laundry and being able to hear my kids laughing and playing chasing butterfly's. It feels slow. If only for a few seconds I can breath and really see that moment. We moved the "pool" to the front yard and the kids are in it everyday. All day.

6-4 Friday Woke up this morning with no water. It's a switch that has been going out. Preston can arc something back into place but is still on his YM float trip. Kind of a miracle we had plans for town. Katana had an ortho appointment. As an early birthday bonus she got her braces off. They took new molds of her teeth for a retainer. We hit a few yard sales trying to waste time. The kids had some Pizza Pie Cafe coupons they'd earned from school so we went out for lunch. The boys were trying to out do each other on how many they could eat. It's getting harder to fill them up.

6-5 Saturday Katana watched the kids cuz Preston wasn't quite home from his float trip yet. I went to the Stake TOFW Event. It was fabulous. “Faith-Filled Ordinary Women Do Extraordinary Things” Our service project was to cut plastic bags to make yarn to be sewn into sleeping mats for the homeless. Speakers were amazing. First Sister Heather Southward and her husband spoke on the widows mite. That our doing one thing or normal things add up over time and matter now to the lord. He is the mission President for the Idaho Pocatello Mission. Second: Diana Percival has been battling with cancer for years. She is becoming an empty-nester and finding her new chapter. It was about Belonging Vs. Fitting in. One is a divine science the other in changing yourself to mimic those standards around us. Gods way is not always popular or political but his way will stand the test of time. It's always a good bet. My favorite speaker was Robyn Paterson. She recently lost her son and husband in a car accident coming home from an elders quorum party. Talk about resilient! Later in life they expanded their family adopting 2 boys. Her struggle to connect with them and comfort years of abuse from their behavior was fascinating. Then the story of shock, loss, anger, and finding the motivation to move on after the accident.... I just pray that is never my trial. It makes for an awe inspiring talk but I'm OK not giving that speech....EVER. She referenced Elder Hollands talk from 2013 HOLD YOUR GROUND. I looked it up later and the whole thing is great. But my favorite snipps she talked about were. “ In moments of fear or doubt or troubling times, hold the ground you have already won, even if that ground is limited. In the growth we all have to experience in mortality, When those moments come and issues surface, the resolution of which is not immediately forthcoming, hold fast to what you already know and stand strong until additional knowledge comes.  Jesus said, “If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.” The size of your faith or the degree of your knowledge is not the issue—it is the integrity you demonstrate toward the faith you do have and the truth you already know. When problems come and questions arise, do not start your quest for faith by saying how much you do not have, leading as it were with your “unbelief.” That is like trying to stuff a turkey through the beak! I am not asking you to pretend to faith you do not have. I am asking you to be true to the faith you do have. If you and your family want to be healed, don’t let those questions stand in the way of faith working its miracle. Hold on to the ground you've won. Don't give up just because something hard comes.”

The food was great. The speakers were so well chosen. The comradery of the service project was neat. I felt surrounded even though I went and sat alone and didn't know hardly anyone. Then the musical numbers were fantastic. I had to leave a little early cuz brother Murdock kept calling me. They had gotten to the vehicles first to get the food out but couldn't get in to the Expo. The door code he had wasn't working. Couldn't find a hidden key. Preston arrived while we were talking so it worked out. Kids survived each other so good day.

Sometimes He Lets It Rain

by Katherine Nelson

She sees the storm clouds gather
The sky is turning cold and gray
She knows that something’s coming
When she starts to feel this way
She pleads for intervention
But heaven offers no relief
And she would understand if she could only see that

Sometimes He lets it rain
He lets the fierce winds blow
Sometimes it takes a storm
To lead a heart where it can grow
He can move mountains of grief
And oceans of pain
But sometimes he lets it rain

When her heart surrenders
To the Master in control
Her spirit learns the lessons of the tempest in her soul
When it’s no longer raging
She can see how far she’s come
Through the wisdom and the mercy of the Son

Sometimes He lets it rain
He lets the fierce winds blow
Sometimes it takes a storm
To lead a heart where it can grow
He can move mountains of grief
And oceans of pain
But sometimes he lets it rain

Blessings by Laura Story:

We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
And all the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love is way too much to give us lesser things

'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops?
What if Your healing comes through tears?
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You're near?
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise?

We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
And all the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe

'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops?
What if Your healing comes through tears?
And what if the thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You're near?
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise?

When friends betray us
And when darkness seems to win
We know that pain reminds this heart
That this is not, this is not our home
It's not our home

'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops?
What if Your healing comes through tears?
And what if the thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You're near?

What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise?

6-6 Sunday Well I'm 33.(Cue sound of chirping crickets). The day did not go as planned. For my birthday I wanted to sleep in...Instead I got the cutest little snuggle bug ever about 6 am. We did be "lazy bones' and read for a while. I didn't want to be in charge of breakfast. Preston and I started fighting about this point. “I should have fasted if you weren't gonna get me breakfast. And if your attitude is all you got me at least you could have gotten a happy one.” “well your attitude is really great this morning..!” “It's my birthday I'm allowed to be a b1TcH.” A messy house. Tired. Explosive morning. I was trying not to feel sorry for myself and failing miserably. At church I watched the Kelsey kid pass the sacrament. He held it so steady for the little kids. He pushed it closer so they could reach and waited so patiently for them to finish. I was touched. “God waits for me so patent with my outbursts.” Mace was concerned. “Hey Moms can't cry. Whats wrong.” I tried to be better but my day kept on with small disappointments. I didn't want to make dinner....hope your OK with cereal. Everyone eventually pitched in to help me make won-tong and egg-rolls. YUM! I wanted to do something fun like a bike ride. No one was on board, so I changed it to movie night. After dinner the kids started to realize why I was still upset. Mace asked “Dad didn't you get mom any presents?. NO. Oh i'd be sad too.” Then they spent nap time making me cards. It was sweet. I went to bed that night knowing I still have it pretty good.

6-7 Monday Shayley Ashton posted an “I love this man” photo on Instagram that Timber commented with “wow didn't recognize your husband with that beard.” LOL it wasn't her husband. Within a matter of weeks she got divorced and is practically engaged again. Whatever if your gonna be secret-y about it I can make my own judgments. We had 3 baby skunks crawl on the grass. Even though you know what they are they are kind of cute. Preston wasted no time blowing all 3 away in one shot. Cute and Dead. Mace freaked out. He thought they were baby kittens. Zara can say pee on grass and pee on potty. She has kept her baby shark undies dry all week. Katana got scared by the black cat outside my sliding door. She thought it was the Momma skunk coming for revenge.

6-12 Saturday We are in the big Arc this weekend helping Mom and Dad put on their ROOF. They had it stripped and ready for tin before we got there. Preston has been out a few times to help with wiring but I haven't in a while. Its still studs and bare floor but it's coming. The kids were dying to get on the roof and help out.  They thought it was hilarious Grandma Dixie couldn't watch. Admittedly Zara made me a little nervous too. She has no fear. Aunt Juanita come in the afternoon with her rock paints for a craft project for the kids. It was a little messy but a much needed distraction for all our "helpers"  We also had a miracle of a calm day. It tried to get gusty later in the day but we had most of the big sheets up by then. Dads been working with Uncle Guy. He had a sheet bender for the flashing. He's always been good with that wort of thing. You only have to show him once and he knows a thing. Plus he's a good, diligent worker. His steady pace is Guys total opposite. This may be causing some “issues”. I don't think Dad will be “helping” (working his ass off while guys supervises”) much longer.

6-14 Monday We left Katana in Arco with Grandma Dixie for church. Mom took her to Malenas Sunday night for a cousin sleep over. Then Monday morning Malena took the kids to Idaho Fall to catch the bus to 4H Camp in Alpine Wyoming. I know its a good opportunity for her. I'm a little nervous. Preston went when he was a kid. Echo knows the people doing it. I'm still going to be a nervous wreak this week. At home the rest of the kids wanted to get the pool ready. The blow up pool doesn't hold air. The animal trough has a dozen holes in the bottom. I put the one like a liner in the trough and wala. We have a Pool that doesn't leak. Complete with a slide. Had an interesting conversation with Mace. He was asking about the Priesthood and how old you had to be. He was disappointed he had to wait till 12. Then he wondered when Katana would get it. “well girls don't get the priesthood we have the power of creation.” Oh I want that! He says. Then a little discussion about how babies need a Mom and a Dad but only girls get to have then in our tummy. Horror filled voice asks “how do they get out? Do you cut them out?” Sometimes yes as a C-section, but all mine come “naturally” (I kind of gestured grabbing a baby from between my legs) “You poop it out?” Kind of...it's a special part girls have called a Vagina that let the baby's out. “Whats a Viginetia? Can I see it?”..... Oh boy. Is there a class on how to do awkward conversations with innocent, curious, kids. Like Mom says “it's a balance between being honest, answering their questions but not giving them ideas or oversharing.

6-16 Wednesday- One hiccup-The zipper on Katanas shoes come apart. Malena stopped at the dollar store on her way to I.F. and got another pair. Called it an early birthday present. I didn't even know till we picked them up. Malena is awesome. We called it part of her birthday package to go to camp. She was able to go and bunk with Kylin. The twins went too but were separated at night in the boys cabins. She won the overall sharpshooter award, made us all name bracelets and best of all had a blast. It was a good growing experience for both of us. When we picked her up I decided to make a day of it. I got group-on tickets for Tautphaus Park Zoo less then $20 for the family. It's not a huge zoo but each kids saw the animal they wanted. Zebras, Monkeys, bears, penguins and lions. A little girl in a wheelchair started rolling down a slight slope. It took me a min to realize she wasn't doing it on her own. I tried to reach out but was too late, and afraid I'd tip her over if I grabbed on to just one handle let it slip out of my grasp. Slowed a little she hit into a bushy fence. I felt horrid I didn't jump in front of her sooner. Her Grandmother assured me she was OK. I still felt bad. We played at the park for an hour or so then headed home before it got too late.

6-18 Friday I can't believe how old my daughter is. I think I say that at every birthday but 10 feels significant. Double digits. Preteen limbo where she asked for girl accessories and a Lucky doll. She got a pretty blue stoned necklace and bag from Uncle Greg. Earrings from me. Oh boy did she think she was fancy. The boys left after Preston got off work for a Fathers and Sons Camp out. We girls ate out at Katana's pick KFC and used our movie gift cards from Christmas to go see Spirit Untamed in the theater. We shared a big popcorn with extra butter. Zara was awake and sat nicely during the movie. She didn't make it out of the parking lot. Didn't get home till after midnight.

6-22 Tuesday. Summer lunch program in the park is so fun. I let the kids play at the splash pad for an hour after too. Then we found Moss Greenhouse. It had everything. I was excited to plant my garden but a big wind storm came up. I went to bring cookie in and couldn't find her. She had gotten caught in a swing like a kid flying on your tummy. It was sad and funny cuz I don't know how long she had been stuck like that.

6-26 Saturday So I cut my hair again Thursday. The night before I left for the Amy- O'Maley family reunion. probably not the best time to try a new style. My inspiration was Snow White from Once Upon a Time the TV show. My view in the morning was OH $h!t what did I do. I had a hat on all day so didn't really think on it too much. The reunion was at the Mackay Idaho fair grounds. It was Gorgeous. Beautiful scenery but we were kind of roughing it with no facilities or water. Mom and Dad brought the RV and the McPhauls had a huge tent we all slept in. There was a corn hole tournament. I am so bad but it is still so fun. Dana and Trujillo headed up a kids T-ball and softball games. So much better and funner and nicer than Volleyball which there was thankfully none of. Mom brought her snow cone machine. Charged $1 each and it was a huge hit. The auction was painfully long and expensive as always. Kids and I donated some fancy pants masks, hair bows, a backpack, a leather purse I pulled from Mom and Dad's DI bag before they moved and my goat milk soap. We missed the Kelly's get together for Uncle Erves birthday. Pam was sad cuz “its probably the last time we'll get to see him.” It's Ok cuz I didn't know him and Preston was like “who?”. I am so grateful I went to the Amy Reunion. It felt like we were more included and accepted this time. And it probably would be the last time we see my Grandpa Jake alive.

6-28 Monday Once I got home and played with my hair I ended up LOVING it. It was exactly what a wanted. Katana had her real retainer fitting. On the way to the appointment the car in-front of us slammed on it's brakes on a yellow light. I barley bumped them. It was 2 collage buys. They were super nice about it. Broke my headlight and didn't even mess up their paint. I offered them the Emergency $100 bill in my wallet to just call it good. We still made the appointment on time. No one but Zara was buckled in. Mace: in the middle back was the only one that moved. He came flying forward and laded in the console but us. Any harder of a break or hit he would have been through the dash. He landed hard on his shoulder. I watched him careful all day. We were blessed. That night he related the story to his Dad with this optimistic closing: usually people die in crashes. We're the luckiest people alive. Mace has discovered he likes Butterfly Kisses at night. I asked him why he said “It's tingling my butt checks when you do that.”

6-29 Tuesday Axel has burps that smell like pickled farts. It's so fun to blow in our faces. YUCK. He and Katana were suppose to be helping each other clean. She was being very bossy. His observation made me smile. “Katana your not communicating your just threatening.” Girls activity day was swimming. I took the other kids since we wait in town. I was the only mom or leader that was in the water with the kids. I tried not to be self conscience about that. I was here for/with my kids not for them anyway.

6-30 Wedesday Got a text from my Mom early this morning. On a thread with all my Amy cousins. She let us sent in guess for a few hours then sent the answers. It was kind of neat learning about them. I was surprised that the other cousins knew so little. I think I got 2 right. I guessed on all but one. Dad totally got the most spankings.

*Today is your grandparents 68th wedding anniversary so we're going to do trivia questions.

1. Where did they go on their honeymoon (Yellowstone)

2. Where did they get married (Saint Anthony Idaho)

3. Who's house did they get married at (Grandpa Lyons house)

4. After they got married what was Jake's first job (Forest Service)

5. What town did they live in with Jake's first job (By Wisdom Montana)

6. Did Jake and Afton ever live at Howe (Yes)

7. Name three people who attended Jake and Afton wedding other than Jake and Afton (Grandma Lola uncle Jesse and grandpa Lyons)

8. Which child had the most spankings (Calvin)

9. What are the names of your twin uncles who died at birth (Alan Jess and Jake Clyde (Jess and Jake))

10. What was the date and year Jake and Afton got married (June 30 1953)

JULY

7-1 Thursday Zara puked last night. It's really no fun. And Preston really is no help with ick sick. Today kids and I were fixing the electric fence. Axel turned it on on me. It was an accident but I still yelled at time for like 5 min. We laughed telling it later. “Mom was like whaaaaaaaaa” (mimicking me jumping up and down.) I made a new sticker chart for chores and summer. Trying to be more organized in our days. We try to schedule town trips for around noon so we can get free lunch in the park at Jerome. They have a skate park and splash pad I try to let the kids play for an hour or so. We try to go on Tuesdays and Thursdays. On those days they have something special with the lunches. Firefighters, cheerleaders Ect. Once it was the Fish and Game. They had pelts and horns you could touch. They told how they had legally acquired the skins by roadkill or trapping them in season. When we got to a skunk pelt the boys start animatedly telling about how we had baby skunks at our house and "My Dad got his shot gun and blew them off the lawn in one shot BOOM!" ( they can't arrest you without evidence right? ) The next week was Health and Welfare with a car seat safety. Do you all have a booster and wear your seat belts? (I was panicking Please say yes. Everyone nod) Mace pipes up. “My baby sister does cuz she's little.” (Good political move. Answer a question with a statement in a related field but not the actual info wanted) Now a demo with a Barbie car on a rubber band and an egg that didn't have a seat belt on so when pulled back and released the egg crashes into the wall. "Hey that's what Mace looked like last week when we got in our accident! (Oh my look at the time we have to go now bye) The kids have been complaining at dinner so they had/got to make it tonight. We had canned soup but at least I didn't have to cook. Mace started puking about 11. Taking after his father—he is not graceful. Half scared. Half asleep. It's halfway up the wall. I could really use the help tonight. 2 days of sick kids and long nights. I'm half sick myself. Preston's been 10 days on so I feel bad waking him. After Mace is clean they snuggle while I mop up. Preston claims to be awake the whole time but I can hear him snoring threw it all.

7-2 Friday Found a new swim/canoe practice pond. It's at the end of Niagra springs. It's so beautiful with the cliffs in the background. Sometimes we see otters. The water is crystal clear due to snails and algae forests but freezing cold. A quick swim is perfect for hot days. The kids love jumping and pushing each other off the docks.

7-3 Saturday The fourth of July as all week fun. There was a parade in Buhl. We set up next to Amber and Tony one of the bosses at Freedom. I knew we knew each other but we associate from across the room at the Christmas party. He broke the ice with“wheres that husband of yours?” Loads of Candy at that one. Then they had booths at the park. A cool animal rescue petting zoo. An alpaca, huge turtles , lots of lizards and snakes. NO thank you. I couldn't hardly get close enough to the snakes to take a picture of the kids holding and petting them. NOPE NOPE NOPE. Invited Brooke out for Italian sodas. Then to Wendell that evening. They had free bounce houses, hotdogs and a live band before the fireworks. Ellie Mae was playing. She was born in Southern Idaho and was on team Blake for the 2019 THE VOICE. Something about the live music and warm night felt

so summer. Definitely worthy of a country song.

7-9 Friday Setting up yesterday I had a little freak out moment. There was so much stuff to take out and set up . I'd been at it all day but needed Preston's help to haul big stuff and tables. I didn't think I'd be ready. Or get it all out. Today was good. I had the kids set up with cycles of cleaning tasks and free time. Mace was sitting on the pot for a long time and a fly got in the bowl under him. “it wanted to go up my butt so I pooped on it.” Preston got a happy Friday gift. I couldn't wait for his birthday. Two A-Salt rifles. So much funner than swatting fly's. You have to get pretty close but it is so “satisfying.” Preston has decided he hates that word. It's overused and miss used in stupid youtube videos I guess he things it's lost it's significance for something that is truly intense. Mace got upset at Axel for "Killing all the flies.” Unfortunately I don't think we have to worry about that. I'm really glad I got a 5 gallon bucket of salt from Cart when they moved from Nampa....Actually not sure we have enough. The horses got out at like 11. I lady scared us half to death banging on our door. Mace wanted to sleep in his big blue chair. His poor head was craned to once side. Once he was asleep I moved him.

7-10 Saturday Preston checked out a new auction guy. Avalor auctions. Higher prices. Buyers fee. Masters/ Bennett Boys still the best. Axel found a baby bird on the lawn. He had a total breakdown when I told him it was going to die and to give it to the cat. Preston was trying to help when he said “well if you take good care of it. It might live.” I guess my reality was heartless “NO It's too little. Too wild. No mama it can't survive. It will die in your hands no matter how much you love it and want it to live. At least the cat can have a good meal.” He wasn't happy about the cruel beauty of the circle of life. Mace needed a little reassurance I wasn't goiing to feed him to the cat. I sold several Lularoe pieces. Slowing but surly I'll get those gone. Kids pretty much manned the yard sale this year. It was a good help to me and good practice at money and people skills for them.  They made quite a bit selling water and popsicle. They got pretty bold by the end. “The worse they can say is NO thank you.” All in all a successful yard sale.

7-13 Tuesday My consultation for a colonoscopy was today. Kind of disappointed. My cousin Travis is a P.A. advised all family 30 and older to get one due to family history. My doctor was not convinced. She was more worried I couldn't pay than if I needed one for preventative care. “It's like 10K out of pocket unless your 45 or older. It's expensive if you don't have any symptoms to accompany this decision” Now I'm torn. I felt strongly to do it quickly. I had lots of errands in town. Papa Murphys has $12 Tuesdays I got like 4. I thought to buy a few cases of bottled water. I was happy to have listened to the spirit because we came home to no water again. They are coming tomorrow to put in new pipe. Still dinner and drinks were taken care of. Preston has had a lot of overtime lately. Blessing and a curse. Money is nice but we miss him and he's tired. He has the bucket truck tonight. After giving the kids a little ride up up up up. He used it to cut some trees. We were dirty and hot. I finally swallowed my pride to ask the Dimonds if we could shower. They were very open and welcoming. She even sent us home with a couple jugs of cleaning water. The kids loved finding frogs in their yard. Axel and Mace brought some home for new outside pets.

7-14 Wednesday Apparently much needed pump replacement. They almost lost the last section down the hole. It was so rusted it broke just as they got it cleared. It had several thumb size holes along the length of it. Once done there was an immediate difference. Our sprinklers worked so much better. We had thought of re-configuring it cus our grass was dying. With all the new pressure it actually hits where it was suppose to. I called CHM my insurance. They calmed my fears about the Colonoscopy. It was such a different feel. “We just want you to be Ok. Don't worry about the money. Peace of mind doesn't have a price. If you feel you need it. If it feels right do it.”

7-15 Thursday We had our primary meeting in the park because we have lots of kids. It worked really well. I sold a dresser. The guys showed up with no shirt and low shorts. It was super awkward talking to him trying to help him lift and load it. At dinner I asked Preston to filled my glass. Usually he gets after me for only filling his glass half way like a child's cup. He was trying to show me up by filling it all the way to the top. So I bumped his hand making him spill. It was immature yes but also a win. We've started watching the T.V. Show “Manifest”. You know it's a great show if you continue to talk about each episode when it's over. Many “what would you do?” conversations.

7-16 Friday We were diligent cleaning the house and yard so we could go to Niagara and jump off the docks when Dad got home. Preston jumped in with his headphones on. We didn't notice for a good 20 min. They say water resistant? Not sure rice can fix an actually swim. We were more worried about his phone. The water is crystal clear but with a foot or two of algae and seaweed at the bottom made it impossible to find. We said a prayer on the dock. We looked around for a half hour. The phone itself wasn't the biggest issue. It was the $100 in the case we were sad about. Finally we called it quits and loaded up. His phone was on the console of the Expo...A true miracle. Zara can burp on command. It's super cute cuz shes so little but some of them are quit loud. She calls it her “talent”.

7-20 Tuesday The 18^th I took my COVID test. Thankfully they have moved past the Egyptian style brain biopsy swabs. Preston had one a few months back. No joke he said it was one of the most painful experiences of recent years. I'm negative. After six months of insurance bureaucracy and medical backlog I had a colonoscopy. They were able to find and remove a small precancerous tumor. I was nervous to go under with Mom's history. I tried to explain we are light weights and might react. Again I didn't feel they took me seriously. It was all about numbers and stats. “That's usually not the case....People say that but...” Going in they put the fog mask on me and asked me to count to 10. I don't remember saying 3. Then waking up. I could hear them but could not move or respond. I was afraid they would get the paddles out. I was thinking this is going to hurt. Preston (who was suppose to stay close but left to go shopping. :{ ) was summoned. “no shes fine let her wake up.” I was super cold. Got the shakes. Convulsion style. That was the only mishap. I felt fine. Ate, drank, peed on scheduled. Not sore or nauseous. I feel very blessed and relieved and justified. I'm so glad we did it. I'm almost glad they did find something so I wasn't beating myself up for freaking out and feeling so strongly for nothing. It might have made me more complacent next time. Where now I'm empowered. I will add my voice to Travis's suggestion to my extended family.

7-24 Saturday My childhood friend Tamara Bates married a guy from Burley Rocky Vickers. They were sealed in the Twin Falls temple and invited me to attend. It was the first time since Corona that I've been back to the temple. It was amazing and beautiful and calming.  Several people from Toquerville were there. Tamaras younger sister LeAira has not changed at all. Missy Kleinman primary and Y.W. leader. Jane and Randy Scott as he's the bishop in Toquerville. That night Mom came with us to the reception in Burley. Ran into Trujillo for a few minuets. It was a blast from the past for sure. Tamara looked so happy. I'm so happy for her.

7-26 Monday Eating our first beets and greens from the garden. Kids love the idea of colored poop. I told the kids the story of watching The Ring with cousins. That Aunt Darla waited in bed till it was over then crept down the hall in her night gown to scare us. They were laughing at me being a big baby. Trying to defend myself I let them pester me into showing them a 2 minute clip where she crawls out of the T.V. They were not so boisterous afterwards. Bedtime was fun. They were super scared. Ending up sleeping together. We had to turn church music on. I told them to pray and repent and ask for peace. It was actually a good lesson. Zara still sleep with us half the night. Preston and I were arguing cuz of the kids and his snoring. You leave. No you leave. It's my damn bed. Zara woke up and repeated “You leave it's my DAMN bed.” Oops. But cute and we all went back to sleep.

7-31 Saturday Idaho Auction Barn had a farm auction in Wendell. Preston bought his dream renovation/restoration project car. A 1966 Mustang coupe. He wishes it was a fast back but “you got to start somewhere.” Right now it's rust colored with no seats, brakes, or running engine. Preston has a vision. For me I'm thinking you spent how much on this? Every other guy he tells is like “wow that's awesome.” So I guess he's on to something. We also got a 15 ft granary. That was interesting getting home. We first had to dig out the base and empty two cord of wood chunks stored inside. Thankfully they had a tractor on sight to lift it on our trailer. Thankfully it was in Wendell. We took all the back roads home. Going a steady 5 miles an hour it took forever to get home. We didn't stop cuz it wasn't tied down. A strap was trailing on the ground. I jumped out of the truck ran beside the trailer to coil up the rope. Then ducked under the edge and throw it on the trailer. It stuck out on each side about 5 ft. Then ran back to the cab. On cross roads we'd look a head make sure we could just roll on by. Totally didn't mean for it to take as long as it did. Kids were awesome. They basically watched T.V. and played video games the whole time we were gone. Had a great time.

AUGUST

8-1 Sunday Emily Kimball had a birthday party after church. We weren't going to let our kids in the pool but couldn't really stop them. We want to support the kids but it's hard not offending one or the other parent in a divorce situation. We try not to pick sides here. Mike invited-we went for Em. Grandma Dixie had an appointment so stayed the night with us to be closer. Axel was her bed partner. He said. “I slept so good with Grandma she smells good and I have good dreams.”

8-2 Monday Shopping for life insurance I had a physical today. They came to the house cuz of covid. Wore masks and gloves. The old guy put on his gloves and then pet the cat, took a toy from Zara, opened his case... had a mask but pulled it down to talk, sneeze and breath. It's policy. Its for your protection. It's totally working. Finished ConMaring my closest. Preston had to come save me at the walmart when the Expo started misfiring. Luckily he was in Jerome. Cart, Syringa, Trujillo, Mom and Dad and I were trying to coordinate temple tickets to Pocatello temple open house in October. As soon as it opened we got on to get the same time slot. Within a day it was out. Trujillo thought it was one per family. Luckily we all had gotten a few extra and in the end had exactly as many as was needed. Miracle.

8-4 Wednesday Someone broke the window in the boys room. A dime size hole throw the first pane with accompanying spider cracks. I prayed to stay calm and know the truth. After talking and questioning all of them the spirit told me to let it go. The lesson was learned. I wasn't sure what it was as the real culprit never was revealed. I felt either Mace was the guilty party or he was confessing to protect Zara. It was weird not knowing for myself but feeling the lord knew for me.

8-5 Thursday Drove down to Utah. Proctors got grandmas snow cone maker after the Amy reunion. They have been waiting to do a snowcone stand. They sold more to us then to the neighbors but had fun. Mace cut his finger on a razor in the shower. “I was checking if it was a mommy real one.” It was obviously. LOL

8-6 Friday Nef Family Reunion was in Utah. Due to covid restrictions the last year or so Donita had to get creative. It was different but still good.  Our proverb reads something like "where at least two Nefs are gathered there fun is also."  Put 100+ and you get Awesome. Couldn't get our usual big venues like a girls camp so everyone was in charge of there own sleeping accommodations.  We were able to stay at Syringas as everything was only 30 min. away. Day one we met up at a park. It was like a little cove. Over a bridge...had a small slide toy....small wooded walk area...pavilion...duck pond...big grassy area and trees. It was perfect for what was planned. Each Elder Nef sibling couple had a station and a group of kids separated by age. We started with a human piñata run. The leader had candy taped to their shirt and the group ran after them. Denim was the only one to run in her group against Greg Allen. She was fierce. I was proud of her for not being “too cool” to have fun and participate. T-Rex 2-3 age group wasn't sure what was happening. Most sat down and cried when Darla pretend to ran away from them. The first part of the morning was 'get to know you games". Afternoon was craft and game rotation stations. The 2 liter air stomp bottle rockets were a hit. Then their was the river treasure hunt. Coins and toys tossed off the walking bridge and the kids went in the water to find it in the shallow stream. As we were leaving Katana went back and hunted some more. She came out with a hand full of missed coins. The food was all brought in this year. Lunch was deli sandwiches. Simple. Easy. Lots of leftovers. Oh and the snow cones. Rylin Patterson's parents have an industrial machine. Free rein - it got well used. Zara alone had like 6. Helped keep everyone hydrated. I think we used close to 10 gallons of syrup. Zara got her face and hands all stained. Axel said “Look Zara was caught red handed.” We met up at a church nearby for dinner. It was catered by some Mexican place that was famous in the area. Buffet style we ate every last crumb. I heard it was kind of expensive and I didn't think it was that great. Then their was the Famous Fabulous Talent Show. Katana (Foxes) Did a light stick-stick figure dance to "what does the Fox say" lead by Ginger Allen. Axel (Megalodons) Did the chicken dance and had beak masks. Mace really came out of his shell with Julie VanWagoner/Angel Charboneau "I'm Mace and I like Among Us" Then got into his PVC drum beat of "We Will Rock You." He even told a joke on one of the transitions. " Hi I'm Mace. Knock Knock......Who's there. You already forgot me.?" Timber got assigned the Builders (11-13 year old's) talent the day of. So no time to think or prepare. I helped put together a human/human ventriloquist skit that told some Dad jokes. Kind of lame but the lamer the better in these instances. I took my Lularoe and sold probably 20-30 pieces to family. Kylie Mulladjanov knew the brand and got a few. Clarita Cueva got some for all her daughter-in-laws. Holly Jensen's girl wanted one so bad. She agonized all night which print to get. Zara pored a glass of water on herself at dinner and flipped out cuz she was wet so I pulled out the last 4T and put on her. Rylin Patterson and I were the last to leave. Me folding my lula. He was locking up the church building. It's his ward. Long fun day.

8-7 Saturday Day two a group got up early to hike the Y. I was not among them. Mom and Dad went. Good for them. We rented the outdoor pool and slides at the Provo Rec Center from 10:00 to noon. That was amazing. The body slides were a blast and because it was just us you hardly waited in line. I definitely got my workout. Went about 100 times with Zara and Mace and a few times with Hyrum. The kiddy pool was perfect for the littles with knee deep warm water, smaller slides and water features. Then their was the chest high wave pool. About 1 who was left gathered for lunch, a family picture and a farewell speech. I told Zara she had to drink her bottle while I held her. I thought she would fall asleep but she chugged it, threw it down and said lets go. We had all day passes but by about 2 most started leaving. Greg and Syringa took a load of younger ones home. I stayed till 4 and still had to drag the others out. Mace “ the good thing about swimming is it's fun. The bad thing is I'm so tired.” Back at Syringas the kids spent the rest of the day in her pool. The adults rested. We had a movie night with popcorn. Such fun memories.

Just after lunch Dad got the call that Grandpa Jake had passed away. It was a long time coming so we weren't surprised. We weren't sad. We didn't cry. We do all feel for Dad. Loosing a parent is never easy no matter how distant the relationship.

Alan J. Amy “Jake” passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and family in Arco, ID on August 7, 2021. Jake was born in Arco, ID on July 31, 1935, to parents Jess and Hazel Amy. Though officially named Alan Jess, his dad nicknamed him “Jake” early on, and thus the name he was known by to almost everyone. A typical youngest child, Jake was catered to by his older sisters and brother.
Jake attended grade school at the one-room schoolhouse in Clyde. He was very proud of being both valedictorian and salutatorian of the 8th grade- a not as widely spoken about the fact- he was the only 8th grader!
Jake attended high school in Arco, it was in his junior year that he met the prettiest girl in school (he thought) Afton Louise Burton. Jake and Afton were married on June 30th, 1953 in St. Anthony at the home of Jesse Lyons.
Jake loved horses and started riding horses with his siblings at an early age. Horses and horse-related activities were a continuous theme throughout his lifetime. He rode horses, packed horses, rodeoed, chariot raced and team sorted just to name a few. He judged many rodeos and held judging cards for three different rodeo associations: ICA, EIRA, and Old Timers.
While Jake spent a few years finding his place and exploring work opportunities in Cobalt, ID, and Montana, his home for 60 plus years was under Bell Mountain in Clyde, ID. Beginning in 1959 Jake and Afton together worked their ranch and raised their 4 children Delwin, Calvin, Juanita, and Loretta. Later they expanded their operation to include entertaining friends and family at the Amy Park and operating their hydropower plant.
What a legacy, what a life, what a ride! Jake leaves his wife of 68 years, Afton, his children, his brother Leo, 12 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Special thanks to Salmon Valley Hospice and Lori Palmer and her staff for their care and loving assistance with Jake’s transition.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 14, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the Little Lost River Bible Church in Howe, Idaho. A viewing will be held for one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be in the Clyde Cemetery under the direction of the Anderson Family Funeral Home in Arco.

8-13 Friday Stopped at Natalie's to see Missy's baby Arlo. Kids couldn't help but get in the pond. *We made the kids watch one of our movies for movie night last week. "Ice Roads" a guy gets his leg stuck in a cable and it gets mangled broken and then ends up dragging him under with the truck anyway...he dies. Mace goes off the zipline and gets his leg a little tangled in the rope in the water while swimming way. He FLIPS OUT. I'm in the rescue boat floating nearby and can't hardly pull him in I'm laughing so hard. Funny not funny moment. Poor baby. Timber and I go see Grandma at Juanitas house. We knew it was coming but death is always bitter sweet. We're sad for grandma. For Dad. For a lost opportunity for a relationship. They are picking out new clothes for Grandpa to be buried in. The new solid blue shirt they originally picked out for him to wear had a grease spot on it when they went to get him dressed. We helped them decide on the replacement-- an orange plaid. "This one looks like Grandpa." Grandma admitted it was his favorite.

8-14 Saturday The boys wore denim, white shirts and red ties. To match Calvin Amy girls wore our fancy denim skirts, white shirts and red jewelry. The cousins (all 12 of us) sang Daddy's Hands.   Verse one was for our parents then Trujillo wrote a second verse called Grandpa's Hands from Us. I could hardly sing that one. Not cuz I was actually sad about Grandpa Jake but the romanticized idea of a Grandpa in general. We only practiced once together but still sounded pretty good. We only practiced once because it was a big reveal that Trujillo wrote a second verse for it. He wanted everyone to be there to be surprised and impressed. We still would have been. It was the first verse we all knew about we wanted to go over a few times before. He wouldn't talk or explain just kept saying we had to wait. He was playing the guitar for it and got mad when we tried to play the music on our phones. I play a little different cords so it's pointless to practice that music. Deep Breath!!! Juanita and Loretta gave a cute back and forth of his growing up. Delwin got on some born again religious tangent about some weird bible story and forgiveness and mercy. It made Dads shine all the more. “People try to make people out to be better then they were once they are dead. Well i'm here to tell you Dad was a hard, rough, mean SOB. That's how and who and what and when he was. But we knew where we stood. And what he expected. And we are stronger for it. He did his best and that's all we can do to.” Pallbearers and flower children (Grand (12) and Great Grandchildren (27) piled on a horse-drawn flatbed wagon for Grandpas last ride. It was fitting that the wheels rattled and the horses got  skittish. YeeHaw!  The kids were done after lunch was over.  It was a blessing that Crystal lives close.  She had a water slide up and the boys took the kids there so we could stay longer unhindered.  It was good closure. After the luncheon they did an open mic of memories of Grandpa.  I was surprised who all didn't get up.  *Harlie brought a belt Grandpa made for CHARLIE that was too small so he put a concho over  the C and re-gifted it to HARLIE.  *McCarty told how they mistakenly bought her a marijuana leaf necklace in California.  *I brought my horse teeth earrings Cart and I dug out of the bone pile. Grandpa jokingly said "what ya gonna do with those make a necklace."  It was a good idea after all.   *Trujillo told about working/ haying with them in the summers.  *I told Preston's cuz he was gone with the babies already. About how he got to shoot Jakes new gun and when he hit the target was allowed to stay. *Syringa when they told Grandpa they were naming their baby Denali had all these facts about the National park. How it meant the big or great one. And that another name for it was Mt. McKinley.  Azalyn was almost Mckinley for that fact. Grandpa loved facts, stats, and charts.   *Ralayna ended it with a beautiful rendition of  the National Anthem. Memories and pictures were on the tables. I found one and was surprised because I have Grandmas dress.  Dad brought it home when we were in high school when the roof collapsed on the bunk house.  We met up at Cyrstals house. Darla/ Crystal had leftovers and pizza for whoever showed up and for however long we needed.  Their hospitality was thoughtful.

8-16 Monday Followed the Hatfield's to Oregon. Drove all day Sunday. The Dads had the little girls for all of an hour before demanding at least one Mom be in the vehicle. Other than that we traded kids, cars and drivers at each stop. For a 10 hour drive it went remarkably quick.  I don't think I even turned on my book on tape. Cart and I talked the whole time. Today was Beach Day. We got up early to drive 2 hours more to the coast. The first beach we stopped at was the same one we visit last year with Syringa by Seaside. There was an unusually high number of live sand dollars. It was in the news. So we found a ton of whole intact ones really fast. We tried throwing some back but it was pointless; they just got washed back up. Reminded me of that talk where the guy asked the old man why he was throwing them back if it wouldn't make a difference. The old man picks up another and throws it back "It made a difference to him".  Beach two was Hug Point. We made it in time to walk around the point of the cliff. The pools of little fish and Sea Anemone were fascinating. The rocks covered with clams were beautiful. I took a National Geographic worthy picture I call "A crab in barnacles".  It was a little bit chilly but that didn't stop us from catching a wave or two.  (and maybe hypothermia lol)  We had a private cove mostly to ourselves out of the wind. Spent the day relaxing, snacking, rock climbing, building sand castles, cave exploring. body surfing. Kids really enjoyed digging. Axel was heading to China. Katana buried herself. Cart found charcoal for warpaint. Preston had to poop. He was chest high in the ocean for a good 10 min. “cold makes you clench. That hurt.” We were laughing to hard to be sympathetic. It was fabulous.

8-17 Tuesday Adventure Day #2 There are dozens of major water fall hikes along the Colombia. Some were still closed for covid or required tickets for parking or a little farther than we wanted to go. First stop was Crown Point Vista House. It was build in 1918 as a rest stop for travelers. The observatory continues to offer stunning views of the river valley below. We drove on the Scenic Corridor " an innovative European-style road that traces a winding path through the perilous Columbia River Gorge, linking Portland and The Dalles" We just started driving and when we saw a water fall parking spot stopped. We climbed around the rocks at the base of Wahkeena Falls. Did one more nature walk under a cool old bridge before Preston/Baler got Hangry. We were recommended the most expensive hamburgers and tots I've ever had. Somehow the kids still have energy so we found a playground to eat and play. Us adults enjoyed the sunshine and downtime.

8-18 Wednesday Day #3 Adventure.  A fun nature walk to the river near Carts home.  Blackberries are like a weed. They grow wherever and take over if not tended. We were wishing for a ladder all weekend as they mow them back street level. We still foraged our fair share.  They had removed the broken bridge from last year. We weren't going to get wet but...   Later that day Cart and I took the kids to the river by the train tracks.  Katana really wanted to try and swim across.   I had her and Axel hike 100 yrs upstream so they had time to make it before they passed us and would need rescuing.  I was so proud of them. Cart and Brendon are moving Monday.  We decided to leave and drive all night instead of  stay half a day more. We talked them into sending Zaleah and Baler so they could be unhindered in cleaning, packing, and moving. We left after dinner. Preston drove all night. It worked out for both of us as my kids were not done with their cousin fix. Zaleah stayed awake for most of the trip. Silently sucking her two fingers I'd look back and see her little eyes in the dark.

8-20 Friday After unloading I took the kids to the ponds near Niagara to swim. Baler is not a huge fan of water. The dock wiggled a little and he scampered up a tree. "I'll watch from here." Zaleah got in and out. Admittedly it is cold water. We stayed maybe 10 min. Then took a bike ride to the pick-nick tree. Thankfully Baler can ride a bike. Everyone else had to tow someone younger.

8-21 Saturday Took the kids to Banbury as part of Axels birthday. It took a few minutes to convince “anti-water Baler” it was a big warm bathtub. He got in a round tube and was a rescue boat for the rest of our time. Zaleah who hadn't been 100% sure of Preston all week glommed on to him. I think she thought he looked the most solid in the water. Zara is a little fish. She went off the diving board a thousand times. Mace tried to dive. It was more of a graceful belly flop. Axel and Katana stood up on the log. It literally took a monsoon to get us out. Quick storm came up with huge raindrops hard and fast.

8-22 Sunday At church we are rebels by sitting on empty row with the sign “this row is closed for social distancing”. Preston makes paper airplanes out of the signs or gives it to the kids to doodle on. “At least they are good for something.” After church Preston gave all the kids blessing for school. Brooks kids came over for blessings too. We had birthday cake and and few last presents for Axel. That night Baler was telling scary dream stories. When I asked Mace if he was Ok he said “ya it's not scary cuz there was no music.”

8-23 Monday Axel's actual birthday is also the first day of school. He took a bag of sticky hands to pass to the class. Easy. No mess. No allergies.  Katana starts 4th grade. Mr. Breland is a cheery, laid back grandpa type.  Axel was excited when he saw his teachers name. (Mrs. McCarty) " I think I can remember that one."  The bus picks my kids up this year on Bob Barton. Not thrilled. I don't think it's very safe.  After fighting with them last year about masks I think the transportation department is screening my calls.  Preston put some more dirt in the ditch and I pulled weeds and got them each a flash light. It's still dark in the morning. We'll see.

8-24 Tuesday Mace was just excited to go. (Mrs. Taber) Kindergarten only went one day the first week according to your last name. Visiting each class and teacher for testing and placement. Then they were assigned their real teacher and start full time the next week.  He was upset he didn't get to ride the bus to school on the first day. I had to drive him in for registration. But he had a big grin when he got off that night. Zara is not thrilled to be alone. "Where is my kids?" she asks.  Being inspired by Zaleah we started potty training too. She loves her Baby Shark undies and the princess potty that cheers for her. Mace is having issues with potty time too. He waits till I force him to get the "big poop" out. I don't blame him they are massive. Seriously some of them are big enough to christen. I have to cut them up or flush a few times using the plunger. It's a work in progress. “Can't have racing stripes in Kindergarten.”

8-27 Friday Trying to get the kids to clean up is like pulling teeth. I was yelling at them when sassy Katana drawls “what Mom you having a bad day?” It broke the tension that was building. I love that girl. Mace was determined to have a mountain dew soda. He spent his own 50 cents to buy it. He was so proud of his purchase. I was proud of his achievements and earned reward. I finished a glass plate flower project that's been in my closet.  Apparently used the wrong drill bit. Preston told me after I spent an hour on each dish. A towel and water and still breaking one. Got the right ones ordered for next time. There is no electronics till after Dad comes home and Dinner.  At naptime I happened to take a closer look at the tablet charging station. Katana and Axel had colored, cut and taped replica tablets in their stops. I wasn't sure if I should get mad or be impressed with their creativity & attention to detail. From across the room you couldn't tell they had even added the port and headphone holes.

8-28 Saturday Axel Holden Kelly was baptized by his father Preston R. Kelly.  He asked Kylin and Lane to be his witnesses.  I think this change in policy is so neat. Both Grandpas told a story of their baptisms. Grandpa Marc told of seeing a beautiful kaleidoscope of light when he came out of the water. Like life would constantly change but to make it beautiful. He gave Axel a kaleidoscope Grandpa Calvin spoke of the joy and celebration that is this moment. And moments like this. The temple. The reunion on the other side. It is sacred and special but also AWESOME and EXCITING. He gave Ax a big high five. Uncle Brenden and Denali were asked to tell an experience with listening to the Holy Ghost. Axel really wanted a slide show like Katanas.  I did it to the song Glorious by David Archuleta.  Got nostalgic working on it. It was a tear jerker to present.  In his confirmation circle we had Grandpa Calvin, Trujillo, Greg, Brenden, Dan, Grandpa Marc, JD, and Carson. So blessed to have close family. ( In Distance and in Heart).  It was a very special day to share.

SEPTEMBER

9-1 Wednesday I was mowing the lawn and the climbing rope got caught under the front bumper. It lifted the mower up and nearly landed on me. Thankfully the blades we not on at the time and after it got 90 degrees it stalled and shut off. My heart was pounding. We cut swirls hoofs and trimmed her hair. He stood surprisingly well for his first time. Zara had a well baby check and shots. She did surprisingly well too. Growing well at 27 lbs. Zara really misses her "kids" when they are away. She gets into all sorts of messes without 3 more sets of eyes helping watch over her. My big Mace loves School. I was a drill master and he was reading this summer. His teacher does lots of coloring, singing and crafts. He is so excited to have homework. “cuz this work is fun”

9-4 Saturday After 4 years of mental/financial heartache we are finally signing docs to get out of “Stupid” Stormy Point timeshare. We pick peaches from North view Orchard. Kids helped me can all day. I accidentally left the last batch on like an hour longer than it should have been. Oops. We rewarded ourselves with the new live action Cruella. It had a lot of controversy for being too dark. A Devil Meets Prada vibe. I thought it had some good twists. Confusing on how it ties into the original 101 Dalmatians as Pongo and Perdita are siblings. Anita helps Cruella who actually likes dogs. Axel sleep walks. Came into or room just before lights out. Got confused and peed on the bathroom floor. Preston and I got in a huge argument afterwards. These type of fights are just dumb and draining and pointless but only viewed after the fact.

9-6 Monday No school holiday and the kids are still trying to squeeze summer. They made a parkour water slide...probably the last we'll play in water outside. They helped pull kochia weeds and harvest the garden. I can never grow enough beets. Ummm Love'm. We got fist size beautiful marbled ones this year. With scrap material from a job sight we were able to finish transformation of the kids old bathroom into a food storage room. We ended up blocking the entrance from the toy room and moving the door of the coat closet over a few feet to be centered in the new room. Compiling our canned goods from under all the beds, crawl space and back porch into one area. It's my new favorite room in the house. I feel so blessed. I have a true testimony of food storage. “If ye are prepared ye shall not fear.”

9-11 Saturday. Cassie Amy passed away. Lost a good one. He always made you feel like you were his favorite. He went out of his way to know us-- include us--to make us feel welcome. The family reunions will not be the same without him. I'm not sure the auction can even go on without him. Yup this was a hard one.

{Casey Lee Amy was a man larger than life with a heart that was just as big. Born on October 11, 1960 to Robert and Judy Amy in Arco, Idaho; he was the eldest of the three siblings. His childhood was spent riding through the Little Lost Valley on the back of his pony Dictator, exploring, hunting, fishing, ranching and developing into the cowboy he would forever stay.
Starting his education in the Clyde one-room schoolhouse, he moved to Butte County high school and into wrestling and football. After graduation, Casey attended University of Idaho. He became a member of Farmhouse fraternity, the President of the U of I Rodeo team and met the love of his life, Rhonda Lynn Amy.
After college, Casey and Rhonda married and moved to Harrison, Idaho to manage the L-7 south devon cattle ranch. They had their two children and ranching priorities shifted to accommodate 4-H projects, sporting events, coaching, and anything their children pursued. Casey's devotion to fatherhood was unmatched.
He continued to be involved in the community as neighbors became friends, and friends became family. He spent all his days supporting and uplifting those around him. From attending Saints football games, to organizing auctions and charity events, and becoming a staple in countless lives, Casey has become so much to so many. To know him was to love him.
Casey passed on September 4th, 2021 in Coeur d' Alene, Idaho surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife, Rhonda Lynn Amy; children Nikita and Dakota Amy; parents Robert and Judy Amy; and siblings James and Rhonda Kay Amy.
Services for Casey Amy are planned for Saturday, September 11, 2021. There will be a viewing from 11 am to 1 pm with funeral services to follow at the Arco High School auditorium at 120 N. Water Street, Arco, Idaho. All are invited to attend. The graveside service and fellowship will follow the funeral at the Little Lost River Community Center in Howe, Idaho.
Services are being cared for by the Anderson Family Funeral Home of Arco. If you are unable to attend, there will be a Celebration of Life at the Benewah County Fair Grounds in St. Maries, Idaho on September 17 th at 5:30pm.}

The funeral in Arco was hard to get through. Danna Gibson made a tear jerking celebration of life video. There was a phone message to his daughter that was heart wrenching. Just a “hey sweetie thought I'd call love you.” with the music and other pics....so good. We didn't fallow the caravan to Howe. I convinced Preston to take me to Pickles Place. Apparently it's really famous but locals all but refuse to eat there. In fact we ran into a guy Preston works with that drove over with his visiting parents just to eat there. Showing them semi-local spots in Idaho. It wasn't terrible. Slow service and cobweb balls dangling from the fans but I've had worse. I wouldn't drive 2 hrs to show it off but it wasn't bad. It's 9-11 and there was maybe 1 post of the attacks on NY. I think “Why are we letting ourselves forget.”

9-12 Sunday walk across Malad Gorge bridge. Mace was super scared to go over. Preston was very immature when he heard this. I was not impressed when he started jumping in the middle. I was sure it was going to give way too. I am eating up these beautiful fall days. Watched Croods with the kids. Zara understood it. The dad doesn't have a way across at the end. “Oh no dadda.” She was so forlorn. Then when he burst through the clouds she sat up and cheered. It was so adorable.  She's mastered the art of making herself burp. An adorable bad habit. “it's my talent.”

9-19 Sunday it was suppose to be spirit dress up week. Monday was crazy sock day. Tuesday school was canceled for the rest of the week due to a Covid spike in our area. Whatever I like my kids. Zara sneezed “mom you say bless me.” Bless you. “now say welcome.” Friday kids are cleaning. Zara went up to Mace. “Hey pick this shit up!” Mace was shocked “that's a bad word” Zara-“oh please” When I'm laugh-crying in the other room it's kind of hard to parent language. Mace was excited to lead the article of faith. He ran right up to say “please stand” into the mic.

9-23 Thursday Tom was the best bus driver ever. He let McCarty sing over the intercom. He drove us all the way home if Mom was late. He would buy the Anderson Junction kids sodas cuz we had to go back to the Elementary and wait like 30mins.  He'd honk if he saw me walking to the car when I started driving. "Where were you when the world stopped turning that September Day?"  I was on his bus. He told us about the towers and told us to Remember.  Well Mr. Hirschi you will never be forgotten.
Hurricane - Thomas Beatty Hirschi passed away on Aug. 23, 2021, at his home in Hurricane. Tommy was born on June 18, 1944, in Long Beach, California to Merlin C. & Lola Beatty Hirschi, both of whom were from the Hurricane area. Tom and his older sister Barbara returned to Hurricane with his mother when his father went to Japan with the Army during WWII. His father returned when he was discharged following the war. His grandfathers helped to build the Hurricane Canal that brought water onto the Hurricane bench. Tom's father Merlin was killed in a tragic accident in 1955 when he was just 10 years old. Lacking a father's companionship and guidance made for a rather rambunctious adolescence but he didn't stray from his core values. He had many role models that made a big difference in his life at this time including Richard Lee, Keith Tobler, coaches James Robertson and Don Lay, Jack Lemmon and later Marlin Gifford. Tom played football and baseball through his junior year, basketball his freshmen & Sophomore years and wrestled his junior year. His senior year he stopped playing sports to work at Lemmon's Phillips 66 to help give support to his father-less family. He did play doubles in tennis his senior year with a good friend Wes Cannon. Shortly after graduating from HHS Tom married Kaye Wright, daughter of Cal & Zona Wright, and they lived in Hurricane, Springdale, Las Vegas and Salt Lake City from 1965-1976. While in Salt Lake City Tom experienced a mighty change of heart and became active in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Shortly after returning to Hurricane Tom and Kaye were sealed in the St. George temple with their oldest five children. They returned to Hurricane so Tom could intern for Keith Tobler as the town barber. They eventually had eight children. Tom resumed coaching little league baseball in 1977. In 1978 he was one of the founders of the Hurricane Little league football where he also coached for many years. He began driving bus for Washington County School District in 1981 to supplement his barber income to support his growing family. He has driven thousands of elementary, intermediate, middle school and high school students hundreds of thousands of miles in his bus. He remembered most of them by name and could recite their genealogy as they said hello to him throughout the community. He not only drove the activity bus for HHS which ended after 7 pm each weeknight but he also drove many of the sports and other activities on out-of-town events for 31 years until he retired in 2011. He announced the varsity football and basketball games at HHS for many years. During the late 1980's and 1990's he served on the City Planning Commission, the Washington County Fair Board which was still held in downtown Hurricane and the Peach Day's committee for the last 21 years. Following a valiant 20-year battle with Lupus Kaye passed away Feb. 20, 2000. Shortly thereafter Tom married Kitty Marie Payton Campbell on Oct. 4, 2000. They have spent the last 21 years loving and taking great care of each other and traveling the western United States while visiting children and grandchildren. Both Kaye and Kitty were great supports to Tom's civic service. Tom was elected to the City Council in 2000 and then served three terms as Hurricane City Mayor from 2002-2014. While Mayor he served on the Washington County Water Conservancy Board for 9 years and as Chairman of the Washington County Mayor association for 12 years. One of the great legacies that he will be known for while serving as Mayor is when he called one of his boyhood hero's Jimmy Judd, who was the catcher on the 1956 state championship team, to ask him to donate money for lights for the new HHS baseball and softball fields. In 2014-15 Tom and Kitty served two consecutive summers as missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the Rapid City South Dakota Mission assigned to Willies Sixth Crossing. Returning from their second summer Tom had open heart surgery and has been on dialysis for the last six years. Tom retired from barbering in 2018 choosing to spend his time supporting family and working on his family ranch of seven generations at the Big Plains with his uncle Waldo Hirschi, his brother Richard, his cousins Van Kleinman and Doug Hirschi, his sons and grandchildren. Tom served actively in various callings and responsibilities in the Church, most recently at the Hurricane Valley Family History Center and as Assistant Stake Historian. Tom is survived by his wife Kitty, his eight children and her five children and their spouses: David (Dixie) Hirschi, Michael (Kristine) Hirschi, Toni (Derek Imlay), Steven (Julie) Hirschi, Amanda (Jeff Borden), Richard (Sara) Hirschi, Natalie (Dusty Jacobsen), Matthew (Nannette) Hirschi, Jason (Jana) Campbell, Jenny (Joel Vossler), Clay (Gail) Campbell, Hannah (Kris Ripplinger) and Flint Campbell, siblings Richard (Ruth) Hirschi and Paula Hirschi Arriola, mother in-law Avon Payton. Tom and Kitty have 59.67 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents Merlin C. Hirschi, Lola Beatty Hirschi Campbell, stepfather Keith M. Help ·  Campbell, his in-laws Calvin and Zona Wright, his first wife of 35 years Kaye Wright, two sisters Barbara Spendlove and Vera Hirschi and in-laws Rondo and Kathy Wright and Kelly Dutton.

9-25 Saturday Ralayna was Giselle from Disney's Enchanted in Burleys Princess Tea Party Production. I was totally bummed to miss it. But I've waited 2 years to do the Spanish Fork Hindu HOLI COLOR FESTIVLE. Corona kept canceling/ postponing it. And they didn't let us know the tea party dates till like 3 days before. The festival was amazing. We went early so we could walk around their temple while we were clean out of respect. It was an interesting experience for me. The scripture Matthew 15:8 played in my mind. "This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me." Their temple was gorgeous on the outside. Bright white stone with beautiful intricate sculpted designs and art deco patterns from causeway to pinnacle. However the interior was a sparsely furnished, almost bare square room that even from the outside felt hollow and empty. Most of the kids hit the bounce house right off and stayed there. The older ones occasionally came back to participate in Yoga and the Dance Tutorial. I love the sound of their language. The language of their worship dance was interesting too. {Fire Goddess breath in the strength of the earth, reach for the sun god of light and happiness. Shun Kali god of darkness and negativity.} My thought was...."Oh so close" Once the dancing started it was my kind of mayhem. You really couldn't breath for like 30 sec after each color toss. It was fabulous. Just weave in and out of everyone. A huge mosh pit of movement. Preston and Greg patrolled the fringes with the babies. Syringa, Mom and I took all the kids into the middle. Supremely dirty, and colorful and quit exhausted after a few hours. Showers, food, all abilities park and movie night to finish the day. "Holi Holi Krishna Holi !!!"

9-26 Sunday Zara can count to 10. She enunciates so well for such a little girl. Its cute to see her copy her siblings jokes or poems. Hand play “open the gate”. Pull their hands apart. “Pick the flowers” air grab some “how many did you pick” you say a number and that's how many....kids you have. Or cars you'll own. Or times you'll fall in the next week. After you say a number she just says Good. Zara had an accident. I asked if she knows where your suppose to pee? She smiles “my pants” and laughs when I say Noooo.

9-28 Tuesday For a fundraiser I sent out a dozen e-mails to qualify for a slap bracelet stuffed animal for each kid. McCarty, Malena and The Kelly's bought something off it. We bundled the extra points from the purchases to earn prizes we used as Christmas gifts. Got a clock, stuffy, and dino dig egg. I got signed up for life insurance . It's only like $200 a year. Cheap for peace of mind. Mace came home in distress. “I need a comb!” There is a little girl at school he wants to be friends with but “people only like her cus she's pretty so maybe if I'm handsome she'll be my friend too.” oh he is too young to be pulled into the “only physical matters” BS of growing up. Looks and money are already very important to him. This just solidifies it.

OCTOBER

10-3 Sunday The Mormon equivalent of the Super Bowl...CONFERENCE!!! Talks I loved.

*Becoming More in Christ: The Parable of the Slope By Elder Clark G. Gilbert We all have different intercepts in life—we start in different places with different life endowments. Some are born with high intercepts, full of opportunity. Others face beginning circumstances that are challenging and seem unfair. We then progress along a slope of personal progress. Our future will be determined far less by our starting point and much more by our slope. Jesus Christ sees divine potential no matter where we start. He saw it in the beggar, the sinner, and the infirm. He saw it in the fisherman, the tax collector, and even the zealot. No matter where we start, Christ considers what we do with what we are given. While the world focuses on our intercept, God focuses on our slope. In the Lord’s calculus, He will do everything He can to help us turn our slopes toward heaven.
*One Percent Better By Elder Michael A. Dunn Well, acclaimed author James Clear says this strategy puts the math squarely in our favor. He maintains that “habits are the ‘compound interest of self-improvement.’ If you can get just one percent better at something each day, by the end of a year … you will be 37 times better.”
*Other talks had the themes of acceptance--Of love--Of strength and of coming back / coming home.
I finally finished my horses in the waves cross stitch I've had and worked on and off on for a good 15 years. Huge accomplishment. Axel complied several works of art. Katana worked on her diamond art. Along with listening for words the kids also looked for "the lords most wanted". I took the center fold out of the Liahona and they would find the speakers. In between sessions we took a fun autumn walk by the river. The lighting, weather and feel of nature was a perfect fall evening.

10-9 Saturday Pocatello Temple Open house. Coordinating a time slot for the Kelly's, Proctors, Hatfield's, Amy's and Grandparents to attend together was a little stressful. Transportation to the temple required a ticket on line that was “sold out” minuets after they come online. Trujillo thought it was one ticket per car. It was one per person. We had all gotten a few extra so by the time it was confirmed we had just enough. Blessing and relief. Turns out they weren't that important. They did it mostly for members so they could kind of plan on numbers but no one even asked for them. Then the Amys were late for our slot. Missed the bus ride over but we were still standing in line when a later bus arrived and they just cut a few people to be with us. Their was a sign about no smoking, photography, weapons or mace in the temple. “What I can't go!” LOL. All the stress was worth it to have the cousins in the temple together. Zara was folding her arms most of the way super cute. I loved watching the cousins point out their favorite pieces to each other. I'm grateful we were able to share this moment with each other. Everything was so B-E-A-utiful as always. Fun Fact from Trujillo.--The granite stairs were made with tiles that had fossils in them. And one of the stain glass windows was saved from an old church back east.

10-10 Sunday Mace gave a talk in primary about his favorite conference talk and David and Goliath. I was so stinking proud of how brave he was. We are streaming primary from the chapel so I sent it to all the Grans and Aunts. I nearly drown Zara. Left the bath running and did something. Came back she was sitting up tall with the water at her neck. I drained some and watched her in the “big swimming pool bath”.

10-13 Wednesday Zara woke me up screaming bloody murder. Kids have been suffereing from sore throats so I had Vicks Vapor Rub on her headboard. She was playing in it and got it in her eyes. How do you wash grease from your eyes? I got hot water and tried to wipe it out. They are red, swollen, puffy. I had her hold a rag over them while I read her books.

10-16 Saturday Last yard sale of the season was Gooding's Stop and Shop Yard Sale Hop. United Methodist had a "By the Box" yard sale and handed out printed pamphlets with community members addresses holding their own yard sales around town. It was kind of fun crossing off each stop. Got all the kids Halloween costumes from it too... blessing.

10-30 Saturday I had originally thought of Flintstones for our family theme but the kids united. "Mom can't we just do our own thing this year!" Sad Day. Zara was still pebbles. I her pet leopard. Katana was a perfect Devil. Mace- Batman. He even indulged me and did the voice a few times. Axel was Locke a character from HALO. He ran into one of his friends from school who was Master Chief. Preston was an Off-duty Electrician. So creative. Southern Idaho RV had a little Trunk-or-Treat -petting zoo- thing kids and I hit earlier in the day. Wendell finally came together with a community event. Mormons brought soup. We ran out of bowls and spoons so we started using cups to slurp it. Made it more portable. Maybe next time we'll do that on purpose. Catholics had Hot Cocoa. The roads around the park were blocked off for a Trunk or Treat. The cops held a can food drive in the center of the street. Kids laughing and running everywhere in the dark. Glow sticks, lanterns and flashlights bouncing around. It actually had a hometown feel to it.

10-31 Sunday Mace gave the prayer. Axel had a talk. He remembered a talk from conference about a Father and son cave repelling. When it was dark and scary the son yelled out “Dad” and he was there. We call out for heavenly father sometimes and he always answers. I was all choked up that he got that. Love that kid. He needed to speak up a little. He's been being timid lately. Well timid for Axel. I have this feeling like he's being told so often to sit down and shut up that it's going to effect his spunk. Yes it's hard now but as an adult he'll be a leader by being heard and seen.

NOVEMBER

11-3 Wednesday Doing mud and tape in the laundry room. Zara brought me a dripping wet rag "mom wash u cheek.” My hands were messy so she helped clean me up. So sweet. I was tired of consoling Zara when her latest "kitty" got ran over. She looked for stripes for 2 days. It was heartbreaking. So when Hillary Rogers had some barn kittens we jumped. This time they will be inside cats. Sorry not sorry I put my foot down and maybe-- just maybe they will stay alive. Originally we just got one. That was never going to work. We we went back the next day for a second. Pumpkin and Spice. Any scratches are well deserved. Band-Aids are our friends. Even so Zara is in heaven. Apparently my husband is a cat person. So are the rest of us.

11-5 Friday Mace splashed water on my pants. He was horrified " I'm sorry if I ruined your life". We're did he get that. Big hug and snuggles to fix it. Preston helped JD with some wiring and his furnace. Kids were all too happy for cousin time. New puppies are always a hit. Kylins mini Aussies are fluffy cuties. They made their own orbiter. It's a lot bigger than the original. The bars are really close to the unit. It's a broken arm waiting to happen. Makes me sick just watching and I'm scared the seat belts wont hold. PLEASE HOLD. For lunch we had Alfredo Salisbury stake pizza. Not what you'd expect in a pizza it was good. Arco that night. Dad is home from Alaska. We stopped to say Hi. Kids loved listening to his stories and seeing his treasures. One is a sea glass: possibly a 100 year old hand made Japanese fishing float. We also picked up our postcards. I cried reading them. Not sure why but handwritten notes get to me. Even stupid- hurriedly scribbled memos with miss-spellings.

11-6 Saturday Clara Kelly was baptized by her Father Dan Kelly in Moore Idaho. It was a ward baptism but only had one other kid so not bad. Preston was kind of interested to see the other party. Backstory: Dennis Moss had kids around the same age as Preston. He was not a very nice guy. Sometime during their high school years the wife left him. He since straighten up, repented heavily, got active and it was his oldest daughter from his new marriage that HE was baptizing. I'm thankful for repentance but my natural man side has a hard time not judging a little for his other family. Malena had a Pre-thanksgiving dinner afterwards. Best fluffy Jell-o salad.

3 cups boiling water
3 oz package instant vanilla pudding
3 oz package instant, or cook and serve tapioca pudding
3 oz package raspberry Jell-O

Mix and cook 1 more min. and cool completely (the night before)
8 - 12 oz frozen whipped topping, thawed (cool whip)
1 pint fresh raspberries mixed in or as a decorative topping.( any fruit /Jell-O combo works )

The kids got swinging hard on the circle spider-net swing and broke it. It was close to vertical when it snapped. Glad no one got hurt. Dan mid life crisis or just being Dan bought a challenger. He gave the boys a joy ride. Back roads of nowhere. Glad no one got hurt.

11-8 Monday Zara asked Preston as he went out the door. “Dad you got you wallet?” He actually didn't. That's why we ask. Doing laundry she accidentally closed pumpkin in a drawer. He scram. She freaked out. After everyone calmed down she picked him up "sorry bud. I still love you. Your ok. We're friends ok." Fly strips are full in less than 24 hrs. Literally dripping flies. Flies on flies. It's so bad this year.

11-11 (make a wish) Thursday Katana got a ticket to a musical concert at CSI. It was mutually beneficial. It was their dress rehearsal. All 4th graders and parents got in free. Mace came with us for just $5. Katana got to pick which parents when with her. “ You Mom; Dad would just complain the whole time and think it's dumb.” It was interactive and entertaining. They had glow sticks, bazookas, sing along and guess the movie sections. Their was a guest pianist. Katana took forever finding the right seat so we would be able to see his fingers. "He was just wiggling his hands but it sounded good. I've only ever seen something like this on YouTube and now it's in real life. How does he remember all the notes? He must practice like 10 minutes every day.” He took time to explain his piece so the kids could listen for the different parts and be more involved. "The composer is at a museum looking at pictures and sees a beautiful jungle scene. Can you hear the animals? Next listen for a haunted house and a witch is trying to eat the children so we have to run. Are you scared? The last one is a giant parade. Balloons, band, dancers, confetti. What do you imagine is coming?" After the kids could file past and see all the different instruments. Axel had earned a Pizza ticket at school for reading. Dad took Zara and Axel to town at the same time for their date night. They got dinner, treats, walked the mall playing at the indoor toys for awhile. We all met back home excited to tell our adventures.

11-13 Saturday Preston is at Trujillo's helping install lights. Charlotte made doughnuts. They are like store bought she's really good at it. I drove for activity days. We were collecting cans for Scouting for food. Jade had a basketball game in Filer. Eight girls on the team and the coach would not switch. One was her daughter. One the perceived all star. Even M. Jordan gets sloppy when tired. Jade was excited to play up but not if they don't actually play her. At our primary program practice at home even Zara said. “I love temples” unaided. She then was telling Axel to lean into the mike. My parents spent the night. Got in just before bed. Dad is trying to be tough but Alaska really messed him up. Apparently he rolled a 4-wheeler about a week before he came home. Like John Wayne he kept going. Got off the plane on crutches. Mom is not happy. Zara had a bad dream about sharks. When I put her back to bed I noticed Mace had fallen off the pallet. On the floor his clicking noise was really loud. I'd be scared too. I rolled him to his side. Hope he grows out of that.

11-14 Sunday. Kids did Great in their Primary program. I forget the rice krispies for the after party. Preston ran home to get them. Both grands came. " I know Heavenly Father loves me" was the theme. Katana knows he loves us because he gave us the Holy Ghost. She told of a time she lost her teddy and prayed to find it and the holy ghost whispered to get candy and teddy was right there were she keeps her stash. ( He tells us the simplest way to accomplish his / our goals. Get some candy is easier than "your teddy is wedged between your belt hanger and the edge of the closet kind of hidden behind your pants you tossed in the the other day. If you move your candy bag you'll see him...) Axel had a fairly long part about how God has given us Temples and wants us to have eternal families. Mace knows he is loved because "he gave me my body and all other creations" I was so stink'n proud of my kiddos who memorized their parts. As primary secretary it's frustrating that parents don't help the kids learn or practice. I sent parts twice and at least a dozen reminders. I bet only 10 kids in the whole primary actually knew their parts. Oh well it was obvious mine did! SHINE ON! We had a turkey dinner. Preston was in charge of the potatoes. Anything would taste good with a pound of butter. He made gravy without my stupid packets. It split. Oh well he was helpful.

11-18 Thursday Got an early Christmas present off marketplace. A Bissell Crosswave Vac Mop. Replaces Sweeping and Mopping in the form of a vacuum. At first it leaked all over. Found a small bottle cap looking piece was missing. Thankfully the lady had it and just forgot to give it to me. Round 2. It's amazing. I had to take a picture of my first water dump and send to everyone. It's a cool gross. So satisfying. Preston hates that word. Thinks its overused these days. Ward party almost didn't happen. Oh well more food for me.

11-20 Saturday Preston cleaned out his shop so he can work on his car. Axel and him spent hours the other night sorting nuts and bolts. It was cute to see them huddled at the work bench. No words just male companionship. That's why the world needs DADS! I caught Mace playing in the shell of his mustang. I can't wait till he restores it so we can take some Then and Now pics. Preston also got the opportunity to build me shelves in my laundry room. I love being able to see, find and organize my stuff. It sparks joy to see it done.

He even put doors on the bottom shelves for a cat door/ house/ litter box container? Took us to dinner at sizzler as a thank you. Over ate. I feel a calm sense of Happy. Joy. Contentment. Listening to “just be your bad self” podcast by a girl I went to high school with. Kimber Worwood Dutton. Very interesting.

11-25 Thursday Thanksgiving: It wouldn't be a major family function with out some dysfunctional family drama. Thanksgiving was no exception. Originally it was set to be at Mom and Dad's in Arco. 5 Days before turkey day Mom sent a text saying Thanksgiving was canceled and she'd need an hour to compose herself. We gave her a full 60 Seconds before blowing up her phone. Once it was confirmed no one had died...yet...We could relax a little. Grandma Afton was in the hospital and everyone had Covid...apparently...whatever that means anymore. The next few days was a text war with siblings figuring out where to get together. Evan and JoAnn were gracious enough to invite us all to their house in Idaho Falls. It worked out splendidly. Mace or Axel said "how come you have such cool Uncles?" Evan had a little CRF50, took them on razor rides, free pop machine, firepit, hot tub, movie theater (Mace--"you don't have to pay it's just their regular TV."), food, games, and all important cousins. Aunt JoAnn got us each a pair of cowboy boot earrings. Shes so thoughtful and giving. And BreAnn put fake eyelashes on us. You put them under your natural lashes to stay and blend better. We also got to meet her ever love. He has sister and it shows. “how do you like our eyelashes?” “they are nice” Interacts with the kids. Just a quiet sweet kid. You can tell he likes BreAnn. That's a plus. Pulled her aside to ask some deep questions. He didn't serve a mission. Inactive but understands now it's important. Better real than doing it for Mommy. Also Brody. It's not good. You can see it in his countenance.

*I do negotiate with terrorists. AKA 2 year olds. She got her fancy boots and black hat. I picked her outfit. My 3rd attempt at an Upcycled Daddy Shirt to Baby Dress...I hate you pintrest. Design is ok but when you know what it was it becomes more AHHH that's so Cute.

*They have a giant black and white of Jesus in the living room. Brinley went to a youth conference and the guy painted it upside down in like 5 min. While talking about how each stroke in our lives adds up and sometimes we can't see God cuz we are too close to the situation at the time but he is always there. He knows what the final picture will be even if we don't. You get the picture. Well after she books it up on stage to ask if she can buy the picture. He is surprised and a little embarrassed just gives it to her. Looking close you can see the four taped papers, pencil outlines and how hurriedly done it is; which makes it all the more stunning and powerful.

11-26 Friday Brinley Nef went through the Temple in preparation for her mission. Copenhagen Denmark. Uncle Scotty was one of the Temple workers so got to be in our session (mini-miracle) After we left Preston and Brendon took a car load of kids home. Cart and I drove through Arco. Dad looks like he's in pain. Which makes him look his age for once. That was scarier than the perceived deadly virus they had. Mom needed buoying up but we didn't have much time. The prospect of caring for Grandma Afton and now Dad really wares on her.

11-27 Saturday we drove up to Hagerman to see if we could catch Dan and Malena. They spent Thanksgiving camping out and motorbiking. They were just coming back for a day ride. The kids got to play around on the little hills for a while. Dan hit Hero status in Maces opinion when he took him on a big ride. "My legs are numb but can we go again.?" Both Malena and I are giving talks in church tomorrow about "Finding Joy”. After this last week this talk is definitely for me. Find. Seek. Search. Create it. Just Get it.

DECEMBER

12-2 Thursday McCarty and kiddos came down for Maces birthday. Carty helped me upcycle a set of shelves into a coat closet. Three selfs set on their side to make long cubbies. We painted KELLY on the front and I got coat hooks for the top and sides. It's so cute. Mace's favorite gift was a paw patrol lunch box. He has begged for a cold lunch after he made a friend that gets cold lunch everyday. “he's so cool!.” We made a deal that if he kept his pants clean for a week (he's notorious for racing stripes) that he could have a cold lunch. The I spy a Nephite book is going in the church bag. Grandma got him a hissing snake flashlight. So smart to have it USB chargeable or else I'd go broke on batteries. We had Lava Cakes.

12-4 Satuday Preston is wiring a pump. Marc hired the kids to move wood. He got a little mad at me. “They have to do it” I was showing them how to load each other up then stack it nicely. “ They will but we don't have a fire place. They've never done this before. If you want it done you have to teach then first!” I took the kids to Malenas to hang out. She got some coaching practice in on me. One minute we were just talking; the next I was balling my eyes out discovering some emotional insights about myself. She's really good. "Change your Thoughts. Change your Attitude. Change your Outlook. It's all in the Power of Thoughts." Then we all moved the cows from the Kellys back to Carson's field. We had 3 4-wheelers, a car with flashing light on top. A van. A heard of cows strung out on the road. And the cars kept zooming by. One time Marc jumped the 4 wheeler over the ditch and cut off a car that was coming at about 80 miles an hour straight at the heard and Jamie. We were across the way with the windows rolled up but you could probably guess what he was saying to the idiot who honestly thought the cows would magically part for him....if he even saw us at all. Then a treasure/money cake I brought for Mace's birthday. We also made fun of Pam and her dog. She bathed her and combed her coat and put her bangs in a pony tail and dressed it in a vest we got as a gag gift. It was funny because she had a red sweater on too. LOL they match.

12-13 Monday Last Friday Zara was car surfing in the kitchen and face planted it. Huge goose egg on her noggin. It's progressively gotten more colorful as it's healing. A swirl of blue, green, and yellow. At school Mace wrote a letter to Santa asking him for a motorbike like Uncle Dans. Today he got a reply back. It had an official looking seal and hand written note. Something along the lines of I know you've worked hard to be a good boy and I'll do my best to get you what you asked for. He was so excited and promised me he'd continue to be good. We had to have a little chat about how Santa brought gifts but not always the ones we thought we wanted. He should be good anyway. And I was so proud of his efforts. We asked Zara if she knew what Santa was? In a misty voice she said “Magical”

12-16 Thursday Its end of term. School this week was full of fun Christmas treats, parties, and art activity's for Mace. He thought they were celebrating his birthday over several days. "We had another party for me at school!" "I want to be in Kindergarten" was a phrase the others used as end of term for them meant testing and big projects due. Katana spent several hours on her Piute Indian tribe diorama. With salt dough she made sweat huts, tepees, a fisherman, net, boat, berry patch and other replicas. I was impressed by her creativity and details. She was honored to receive a TROJAN award for RESPONSIBILITY. You go Girl. First real snow came last night. Zara wanted to build a snowman but the kids were at school and I was afraid it wouldn't last. I went out with her but it was the wrong snow. I used a barrel to make roundish molds for a snowman. Zara helped gather sticks and weeds for it's hair. Then I was not allowed to help build her snowbaby. The kids came home and immediately went out again. Snow caves, snowball fights finish with Hot cocoa. (snow and I have a love hate relationship.) Axels latest CFM Goal was to learn to braid hair. Good thing he has the best sister ever. It took him a few tries but I think he's well on his way.

12-21 Tuesday Earlier this week Slobber and Brownie got out on the road. Slobber was hit and died in my arms. I really thought it was Diamond and I was distort. I wanted that baby. I totally broke down for the cops and other motorists on the side of the road as I held him down in his death thrashes. The driver of the truck “I think I hit 2” We found Brownie behind the grainy. He didn't even try to run from us. Not sure how he got back that far. He's leg was messed up. Thought it was broken. We bandaged him up. “if he lives he lives” attitude. We diligently started doctoring it in hopes of saving his life if not his limb.

12-22 Wednesday All the primary kids got to choose to dress up as an Angel or Shepard for the ward party nativity program. Katana and Mace chose to be angels. Katana wanted to wear her baptism dress and I just brought white sheets to hang around them. Several girls brought white dresses to change into. I felt bad I didn't let her when I saw them. Axel and Zara were Shepard. They sang 2 little songs and were just stink'n cute. Santa came after dinner. For a minute Katana pretended to be "too old and cool for Santa" NEVER.

12-24 Friday For me there is no such thing as too much Christmas, Too many lights or to many Christmas songs. I could be happy with no gifts if I could set up and start celebrating November 1st. Not a typo-- Yes the day after Halloween. Sadly Rock Creek did not decorate this year. We took full advantage of Candy Cane Lane and the singing Candy Cane house in twin. Mom and Dad put together a 12 days of Christmas for our gift. Every Day was a scripture that told a name of Jesus and corresponding gift. Examples: The Root of David=root beer. The true Vine=red vines. The word=book of Christmas stories Creator=hammer Gift=PJs I love advents so this was perfect. We also had a Candy calendar, spiritual video and Candle "advent advent the little light burns first 1 then 2 then 3 then 4 then the Christ child at the door.....will you let him in? YES!

The $5 gift exchange ends up being the most thoughtful and remembered gifts of Christmas. Axel found his gifts for Zara right away. A flying unicorn and counting monkey toy. I had mace. I got a shield and Dos game. On the shelf it was more so I had to show the checker at Walmart the online price to make it stay under $5. Preston had Axel he got a nerf gun, clock and water bottle. Zara gave Katana a shelf and book and ceramic cat to put on it. Mace gave me a flower that will never die. A "kiss the cook" sign and Jesus picture. Katana agonized over her Dad's gifts but finally settled on a X-large lap blanket and cup "Don't make me use my cop voice."

12-25 Saturday Christmas morning was fabulously early. We had a great haul. Santa brought magic paint books. Some childhood comebacks like Otto the fish, old hat new hat, and mosaic tiles for me. Preston got a lot of "remember you bought this." Preston got a maze ball toy and I made a Vegas Dice set game. I got myself a lamination to complete that project. Katana- fish tail (thanks Darlin), Roald Dalh book series, kinetic sand, clock. Axel-a punching bag, missionary name tag, dino dig. Mace- Big dino dig, dino puzzle, missionary tag. Zara- ride on pop toy, Minnie Mouse blankets, cat night light, Minnie/Mickey stuffed animals. Everyone got a Norwex body cloth and animal head hand towel. Boys & Girls got Bow and Arrows and RC cars. It started snowing mid morning. We weren't sure how bad it would get. Wanting to get to Arco before they closed the roads we wrapped up our Christmas earlier than expected and were packed and gone by early afternoon. Dad made Syringa a leather purse. Preston had him build a knife sheave. He saw it and said “hey make my wife one too.” Dad has worked in leather my whole life but it was always chaps or cases for others. It was to make money we needed to survive. It was really emotional for me to get a black leather sling purse with silver studs and pockets and fringes.

12-26--12/28 Sunday- Tuesday Gift exchanges are getting harder so we decided to give the gift of "presence." Just show up. For the Kelly Christmas get together we rented the Sacajawea cabin at Lost Trails Hot Springs in Sula Montana. 4 individual rooms. 2 with kitchenettes, each with queen and 2 beds in a loft plus the full basement gathering room with a room on the side with10 bunk-beds. There was enough room to play, talk, come together and sneak away. It was perfect. All the cousins slept together; laughing and playing late into the night. Some epic nerf battles ensued. JD's family spent the week before Christmas in the hospital. Echo's Facebook post 12-15-21 "McKayla had a rough night last night. She was ice skating with her dad when a big ol’ brute ran into her and then fell on her. She got a linear fracture on her skull, and we spent the night in the PICU. She is doing OK today, is talking to us and even colored a little. There is still some bleeding and some air in the brain cavity so we will be here at least another night so she can be monitored. We are so grateful for all the calls, texts, thoughts and prayers. We love you." We weren't sure if they would be able to make it. Thankfully they did. Wolf (a game similar to old school murder in the zoo or Detective) would not be the same without them. All our little's are growing up. Most played at least one round. Some of JD's family hit the ski hill but most of us just hung out at the lodge. Kids went sledding on the packed driveway. McKayla was bummed we wouldn't let her go. Marc pushed McKenna off once and knocked Mace upside the head before we put him in time out. Dan came up late and within 10 min. had to have a chat with the old man. The rest of the week was pretty smooth. We only really had one or two Drama Llama moments. Preston and I got on one. Malena took over and did some coaching on him. After it was over she said. “I think he likes to argue.” Preston and I also made up. Naughty and nice. What if we get caught VS a romantizied atmosphere of snowy woods and sun streaming in the cabin window. Echo and Malena brought tons of goodies for a Gingerbread building contest (what a fun yummy mess). Mace took a tumble down the loft ladder. I really thought he broke his leg thankfully it was just a skinned back. The twins celebrated their 10th Birthday with an awesome motorcycle cake. There was a hot springs at the main building as a nice bonus to our accommodation package. First in on our first evening swim...Lane dove head first into a partly submerged cement divider (from kiddy wading pool to 3 feet level) in the hazy swimming pool. He broke his nose and chipped a tooth. He was pretty swollen all weekend. We think matching bubble-wrap jumpsuits for that family is in order. For a weekend with this lot we come out mostly unscathed. They're my crazies after all so I think I'll keep'm.

12-29 Wednesday Maces back is still raw. We really didn't have stuff to doctor it properly at the cabin. So today he brings me a fem pad. “Mom, I found a band-aid that's big enough.” It took all I had not to bust out laughing. Preston was like “well it’ll work.”

12-30-Thursday The kids and I met up with Mom and Dad (on their way home from Christmas with the Proctors in Utah) at Trujillo's house for a yummy Navajo taco dinner. Zara loved their new Golden Retriever puppy Ruby. An on coming blizzard was just added fun for the older kids snow fort adventures. I preferred the warm house with fun new games like pass the pig while sipping Italian sodas. Trujillo taught the kids Hi Bob yes Bob tell Bob. My kids had dots an their faces for the next week. We had to have another talk about sharpies on skin. Roads were bad but new tires are awesome. A belated Christmas present to yourself after we had to dig our way out of my parents driveway for like an hour picking up the gifts last week.

12-31 Friday Katana's last Activity Days this year was a play that one of the graduating girls (Katie Henderson) wrote and directed. Practicing was a focus of several of the last few activities and the girls were very excited to perform it for family and friends. Katie's mom is the director of the Children's Drama Club in Wendell. It was cute to see Katie "work" -wardrobe changes, forgotten lines, missed marks. It was like Steven Spielberg working with amateurs on a budget and a looming release date. I loved it. It was about a new girl finding true friends. And together standing up to the "Mean Girls". She had some "punny" moments. A few scripture passages and even the song Popular from Wicked. And since family is our best/ only friends we met up with JD's family, Brooke, Rhett and Emily at Mike's house for New Years. We spent the day sledding, eating, and having more cousin time. Preston and JD took Jade to the Wendell new years dance. Preston is in YM and threatened the boys to be nice and dance with her. Not that it took much convincing. She is a beautiful young lady. It was almost 2 before we headed home. The kids were running around till the bitter end however they didn't even make it out the driveway. "Well I've been told when I get old I can't keep rocking round the clock as things unfold I will be so bold to go ahead and give it all I've got and party till I drop."- Destroy All The Monsters a 70's punk rock band Bring it 2022.

Kelly Christmas Card:

Katana hit double digits this year (10) Miss independent wants to do her own hair. She started babysitting (for us. It's awesome. ) She loves math. Which even in 4th grade I can't help her with anymore. She loves to draw and create stories and songs. She is now my actual helper / right hand/ and mini mommy.
Axel had a very special birthday. He turned 8 was baptized in August. He has better handwriting than I do. He is the highest AR earner in his class and is at a 3.5 grade reading level as a 2nd grader. He loves Activity days. We call him “bottomless pit” cuz he's always hungry.
I started the book “Learn to read in 100 lessons” last summer with Mace. So he started Kindergarten knowing how to read, write, his colors and numbers. School is fabulously fun for him. He's really blossomed socially. He loves the arts. Musical productions, plays, concerts... he's my buddy.
Zara. Nickname “curls” cuz she has a head of perfectly bouncy ringlets. She has 2 inside Kitties (Pumpkin & Spice). She loves play-dough, her tablet, honey tea and baby shark (still ugh). She can get away with murder with her head tilt and a smile.
Family adventures: Pump went out on the well. (That was fun). We got a new miniature paint pony named Swirl. Had 2 Family Reunions. Our family vacation this year was behind the Iron Curtain AKA Portland. We visited my sister on the Oregon coast and toured the Columbia River Gorge area. So Blessed to live in IDAHO. Sending ya'll our love from the Land of the Free & Home of the Brave. The Kelly's.