The Hymas Herd

2012-01-25T13:51:00.000-08:00

Our Grandpa Painter left this world last night. This is a note that Grandma wrote that I wanted to share,

"Dear Ones... My Sweetheart left his worn-out earthly body last night for the arms of his Heavenly Father. It has been quite a journey getting there. His family had been called, and were here until just before and the last and had just left and he didn't want to hurt their feelings and so five minutes later he took his grand exit. Lynne, Tim, Les, Nida, Steve, Monica, Sherry, John, Jamie, Kylie, had all been here, and Lorraine, Dave, Mat, Jenny, Becky, Audrey, Yennie, were with me at the last breath. It was a sweet experience, that I could kiss him and tell him how much I loved him . The Hospice nurse had been here. She cried, and said she was not supposed to do that but she had grown so fond of him and knew he wouldn't last the night. So we were prepared. The bishop came and said a prayer for the family...especially me. John and Steve gave him a blessing. Love, Mom "

We love you Grandpa Painter!

We've had fantastic snow days here for the past week! Just pouring and pouring down beautiful flakes of white fluffy snow! The kids are loving every bit of it! They have gone sledding nearly every day, built snow caves and have eaten their weight in filthy snow!

I declared last Wednesday an official Snow Day! Although school was up and running, we stayed home and played! I know, I'm a big fat sucker but we had a great time!

On Thursday, I drove Nathan's truck into our friends orchard! I AM was so very mad! Mad to the cost of $1800 dollars! At least we were safe physically but the poor children must have suffered a bit emotionally from what they told their dad, "Daaadd!!! Mom taught us some more colorful words when she ran into that treeeee!"

Guess Who Lost a Tooth!

2012-01-12T14:43:00.000-08:00

Yes, Lincoln my four year old has already lost his first tooth!

It's really terrible.

He's too young to feel the excitement or to even understand the whole tooth fairy idea.

As I was explaining what would happen that night to his tooth he said, "Mom, you're the Tooth Fairy, right!"

Natalie on the other hand has been waiting years and years.

She has literally kept her lips closed for every picture because of the shame of baby teeth.

Once Lincoln lost his tooth, she was bound and determined to get hers out!

And through lots of hard work she pulled it out two days later!

She loved the letter she received from the Tooth Fairy and even woke me up in the wee hours of the morning to show me her dollar and note!

NINE

2012-01-10T09:42:00.000-08:00

We started a new tradition this year for birthday's-

We have been taking each of the kids on a special date with just mom and dad.

We eat at a fancy restaurant and talk.

Daddy asked the waiter if he he could do something special for Naomi since it was her birthday.

He said, "Just a minute- I'll be right back!"

Boy did that waiter have something special! He performed an amazing magic trick just for Naomi plus brought her this ice cream sundae!

She said, "I'm having so much my knees are shaking!"

Naomi makes her parents life so much easier by writing down exactly what she wants for her birthday.

Naomi and I are trying to spend extra one-on-one time together. She likes to put on her skates while I walk her around the neighborhood on her Rollerblades.

Happy birthday to my beautiful Naomi!

I'm so grateful to be her mama bear!

11

2012-01-05T14:46:00.000-08:00

Happy 11th Birthday to my Emerson Rett Hymas!

You had a great day-

Mom and dad took you on a special date.

You picked out your own gifts and said, "I'm so happy, I can't even say in words how happy I am!"

Emerson, you are so creative and funny.

We were driving in the van the other day when Naomi said, "If you and dad ever got a divorce, I would lock myself into my room and never get out!"

Natalie said, "YEAH! I would do the same thing!"
I replied, "You don't need to worry about such a thing. I'm madly in love with your daddy!"

And then Emerson said, "Yes. But the real question is- Is dad madly in love with YOU?"

Emerson, you're such a clown!

I remember the day you were born. It was such a special day. The moment you presented yourself to us, I had an overwhelming feeling that you were Heavenly Father's very special spirits. I knew you were going to have important things happen to you in your life. I loved your dark black hair and your sweet chubby face.

I'm so grateful I have the chance to be you mom!

Happy Birthday, Baby!

Christmas 2011

2011-12-30T16:48:00.000-08:00

Emerson and Naomi were in the Nativity this year. They were amazing!

Isn't Naomi a beautiful angel?

For Christmas Eve we traveled to Leavenworth Washington.

It is a spectacular tourist trap!

We even met a certain someone...

That night we opened our pj's and sibling present.

Never, ever, never buy cartoon dinosaur jammies that read

Dinosaur Park across the chest for your teenager!

(Sorry Ethan)

What can I say... they were cheap!

I really enjoyed going to church on Christmas and it made for a fabulous Christmas photo!

The kids played out their own Nativity that night.

The weather has been remarkably nice and clear so yesterday I took the kids to the greenway.

It was a great chance to try out their new skates!

Look at all those helmets!

He has a whole road ahead!

First a Soap Box then an Update!

2011-12-16T13:58:00.000-08:00

As I was trying to walk into Wal-Mart yesterday, I was stopped by a very young adult male who asked me to sign a petition to legalize marijuana. Little did this poor boy know, he was asking the wrong lady! This pushed me over the edge! So, I very nicely (okay, passionately) explained to the boy my experience with marijuana. I told him about our little foster baby who came to us with a flat head of neglect, delayed physically, and lack of eye contact due to his mothers high on marijuana. I told him if he believed this drug causes no harm to the people around him, he was wrong. I was irritated with the stupidity of this kid and angry that Wal-Mart allowed this petition in front of the store. It brought back feelings of frustration and anxiety over the lack of morals in the world.

Needless to say, I was riled! I calmed down after a while, finished my shopping and then climbed into my van. I then had this overwhelming feeling rush through me… I felt as though this is just the beginning. This is just the beginning of the moral decay this world is going to experience in the future. Sure, marijuana will become legal. In fact, little will be thought against it. Just like the sex, drugs, lies, homosexuality, murder, and filth that floods every tv show and movie.

Thank you for listening to my little Soap Box!

Every year I look forward to Christmas cards. I usually send out a hundred or so but I’m starting to see a HUGE decline in this tradition. Nearly everyone I’ve talked to has said, “Oh. I just don’t do that anymore. I don’t have time.” With the social media scattering the world, I can see why so many don’t bother with such a time consuming practice. Personally, I’m grateful my grandma ingrained such a habit so I give a BIG THANK YOU for those that still send out those cards! I love them!

Nathan’s parents made it safely to Africa. They are adjusting to the time change but I think they’re enjoying their adventure. I’m so grateful for Skpe, email, and facebook. The only wildlife they’ve seen are the cute little rats in their flat. I know a Lincoln that can take care of that problem…

My birthday was super! Nathan had to work late. This might have been the third year in the row he’s worked late on my birthday. I’m starting to wonder if it is on purpose. I’m teasing! So, the kids and I went out to celebrate. We ate at the Olive Garden. To tell you the truth, I wasn’t feeling 100% so I couldn’t quite finish my plate but we still had a great time!

I forgive Nathan since the Saturday before my birthday he took me to a Christmas symphony at the Capital Theater! The theater is gorgeous, just lovely!

Ethan had his first band concert here in Selah. He did a great job!

The kids had a homeschool/piano recital this last week. It was beautiful! The top four played a Christmas piece, the girls sang a song and the boys are part of the homeschool choir. Sister Cardon is an amazing music teacher! She is teaching the boys all sorts of really hard songs. Emerson LOVES it! Ethan is putting up with it.

Last Monday I took the kids to a Journey to Bethlehem program in Yakima. The Seventh Day Adventist Church went all out. It was amazing! The only problem- the wait was three hours! We sat for three hours before our turn! The kids said it was worth the wait so I’m glad I took them. To pass the time away, I gave the kids the camera for entertainment. No wonder there was such a wait with real life camels, donkeys, and Roman soldiers!

Birthday Letters

2011-12-08T13:31:00.000-08:00

Teenager!

2011-12-02T09:13:00.000-08:00

Daddy called to asked Ethan out for a birthday lunch.

After searching and searching, looking up menu's online and discussing the pros and cons to each and every restaurant in the Yakima Valley, he finally picked his favorite-

breadsticks from Little Caesars and a cherry slushy from Sonic.

Last night I asked Ethan what he would want more than anything in the world for his birthday, then Emerson piped up and said, "Mom, he's going to be a teenager.

The only thing a teenager wants is a skateboard and a can of spray paint."

Then Natalie said, "Mom, is Ethan going to wake up hairy tomorrow?"

"Yeah, and will he have zits all over his face?" asked Naomi.

Then Ethan said, "No, I'm just going to have a sudden desire to grow out my hair and wear pants that fall down to my ankle so I can walk like a penguin and maybe even wear a black hoodie with the symbol of a cobra on the back."

I never thought I would be old enough to have a teenager!

Time literally flies as fast as a yellow jacket on a Red Bull energy drink!

Don't worry Persy cleaned his face...

No need for a shower now!

He gave himself a birthday present...

He made his first basket of the season on his birthday game!

Yeah!

Dentist, Sister, Parks and Thanksgiving!

2011-11-30T13:20:00.000-08:00

This was Lincoln's first trip to the dentist! He was of course- Excellent! He is my cutie pie! He has two loose teeth and his six year old molars! This really isn't suppose to happen yet! Little stinker.

Natalie is in the same boat as Lincoln. Two loose teeth and six year old molars are peeking through. She on the other hand is the only one in the family with a cavity.

She cried all the way home so embarrassed with shame.

Our little Naomi will need braces soon. Apparently, she doesn't have enough

room in that mouth of hers to fit all those teeth.

Unfortunately, the pictures I have of the boys look ridiculous- sorry, no dentist pictures from them.

BIG NEWS!

My sister, Theresa and her beautiful family came for a splendid visit.

My sister is one of the remarkable people you could ever meet.

She quilted five!

Yes! I said FIVE QUILTS!

Five quilts for each of my five kiddos!

Can you believe it?!

They are GORGEOUS!

This project took her months and months of cutting, measuring, sewing and tying!

She even included fabric pieces from my Grandma Davis!

Lincoln said, "I'm going nowhere without my quilt, mom!"

Thank you, Theresa for sharing you talent with my family!

My sister has the heart of a Saint. Truly!

I went shopping with her in Wal-Mart when I saw her pick up a loaf of speciality bread and a juice bottle. I yelled at her from across the way, "THERESA! YOU DON'T NEED TO BUY ANY BREAD!

I HAVE A TON AT HOME!!!"

Tears filled her eyes and she said, "That poor man standing outside is hungry and I just feel so sorry for him."

There's always a guy or two standing outside of Wal-Mart holding a pathetic "Hungry" sign.

Theresa is so kind.

LeGrand is the most patient man I've ever met. He is a great husband and a Super Dad!

That Elsie Elizabeth loves her mommy!

Theresa is like a huge steel plate and her baby a radio magnet!

The weather allowed us to romp around a park or two this weekend.

We always have to have a quick cousin picture!

(some are better than others)

I'm thankful for our Thanksgiving feast and the family I was able to share it with!

We can't miss a picture of the daddy carving the bird!

Mummies, Snow and Trees

2011-11-20T14:07:00.000-08:00

Another week filled to the brim with adventures and excitement for the Hymas family. I wonder if anyone could guess the unit the boys are learning in school…

If you guessed Ancient Egypt, then you are absolutely right!

The boys are reading The Golden Goblet and mummifying a chicken. Yes, you heard me right. They are mummifying a chicken. This is an enormous process. Have you ever mummified an animal body before? I haven’t either.

It’s an everyday event filled with salt, baking soda and baking powder! The process will not be fully done until January! Already we see that little chicken shrinking! My hat goes off to those ancient Egyptians who did this for their dead! They must have been either crazy or devoted.

Our little valley was struck with snow fall for the first time this season. It was brilliant! Fortunately, we drive through a lovely orchard everyday on our way to school so we could stop for a picture.

I find it quite amusing how the girls pose with such grace and beauty while the boys position themselves with a mighty “bored to death” face plastered across their cute little faces.

Lincoln is such a cutie.

Naomi favored us in her traditional first snowfall mark of gratitude. Thank you, Naomi!

The Hymas family LOVES Christmas. We love it so much that we pulled the ol’ tree right out of the box and decorated with some spice! A friend of mine took me to a great warehouse filled to the brim with holiday decorations. I spent a little too much but had lots of fun decorating our tree!

The Great Wind Storm

2011-11-14T13:27:00.000-08:00

Hold onto your hats, Baby!

or should I say...

BAGS!

The wind was too strong for one child.

He Caught Yet Another Bug.

2011-11-10T10:16:00.000-08:00

Emerson caught the pneumonia bug.

I love this picture because this pretty much sums up the last week.
Thank goodness for Aunt Theresa's quilt!

The Homemade Pinata

2011-11-07T12:46:00.000-08:00

Naomi had a brilliant family party idea!

She gathered Natalie and Lincoln together to glue and tie construction paper to create an awesome Pinata!

It was filled with all the leftover Halloween candy!

She then found a ribbon and attempted to tie it around our heads.

It wasn't quite long enough so she held that little ribbon while a blind child whipped a bat around the room.

It was very brave.

Say a little prayer for Emerson. He's on day six with a fever...

The Jewish Synagogue

2011-11-04T16:36:00.000-07:00

Today we drove to Seattle to visit a Jewish Synagogue.

The boys have been learning about the Mesopotamia time period

and the Jewish history that goes along with that age of time

so we took a field trip to a real life synagogue!

It was so interesting to listen to the Jewish Rabbi and learn about their religion and culture.

The kids saw and touched their Torah (scripture) that was made from lamb skin

and written by hand with a turkey feather!

Amazing!

So many of their beliefs and traditions are similar to our religion.

I had to include a colorful fall picture!

The leaves are brilliant!

Where has the Time Gone?

2011-10-31T15:47:00.000-07:00

breathing...breathing...breathing....

Yes, the Herd is still breathing.

This will be a quick recap-

Soccer season has come and gone.

The kids played well and enjoyed their teams!

Way to GO Emerson, Naomi and Natalie!!!

Jerry our kind neighbor gave the kids a ride on his dirt bike. (Lincoln was in Jerry heaven)

This is our homeschool group!

They sure are sharp, don't you think?

We watched a Salmon run.

It was so interesting!

Those fish are amazing creatures...

I'm learning so much!

It was a BEAUTIFUL day!

The leaves were so bright, the clouds were heavy and a big rainbow decorated the sky.

We are in apple country!

The kids helped press over 100 gallons of apple cider!

YUM!

The sun seems to always shine here!

We were a bit stressed out one day so we turned up the music and

danced until we (or I mean Lincoln) wet his pants!

I love dancing with the kids. I hope the kids always remember

how much fun we have dancing in the living room.

Naomi and I had a nice Sunday afternoon snuggle.

These are the moments I wish would last forever.

We had a lovely visit to Rexburg a few weeks ago.

We never want to leave after laughing and playing with our family.

I love my brothers and sisters!

This is a GREAT picture of the grandkids!

Aren't they beautiful!

Grandma and Grandpa's farewell celebration!

They are headed to South Africa in less then a month!

We will miss them a ton!

I cried "wee...wee...weee..." all the way home that day!

I hate saying goodbye!

The people in Africa will love this beautiful couple!

Friday we had a Greeen Lantern party.

All the boys dressed in green and ate junk food all night!

We sold Nathan's car on Friday.

Nathan said, "You didn't even give me a chance to say goodbye."

Today is trick-or-treat day!

Natalie is a gorgeous sock hop girly.

Naomi is cotton candy girl.

Emerson is Luke Skywalker,

Ethan Batman

and

Lincoln is a tough army guy!

2011-10-02T18:58:00.000-07:00

There is so much to catch up on… I’ve been so terribly busy that I’ve hardly found time to brush my teeth in the morning. Writing all the Herd adventures is important so if you have “heard” these then I apologize. You must remember this is our family journal.

On our way to Sea Side during Labor Day weekend our reliable reddish/purplish/Barney colored van made a funny sound then the power steering crashed. We pulled over, checked the power steering and decided to move on until we could find a place to fix it. As soon as we arrived onto the interstate ALL of the dashboard lights started blinking like crazy, the little orange temperature gage pointed straight to H, a loud “ding..ding..ding” rang in our ears and of course the children started fighting in the backseat. I truly thought we might blow right up! We pulled over and parked by a closed service station and checked the time. It was 5:47 pm on Thursday night. We figured if we were to catch a garage open then we only had until six so that gave us 13 minutes to find one.

I left Nathan with the kids, the dog and his IPhone and then jumped out of the van to run for help. I ran and ran. I found a body shop to ask for help… no luck but a suggestion on where to go so I ran and ran some more. I ran a few more blocks in my sandals and found a closed garage so I turned the corner and found a Nampa Auto Parts. I literally threw the door open and saw two tired men. I explained, “Our van broke down and I could use help. Do you have a garage? (knowing I saw two garage doors on the side of the building).”

They replied very confused, “No. We only sell parts.”

“Is there anything you can do to help me? Do you know of a place that may be open?”

Very causally they say, “nope. There’s no place open that I know of.”

You can imagine my dismay so I practically yelled, “LISTEN! I HAVE FIVE KIDS AND A DOG IN MY VAN AND I NEED HELP!!! DON’T YOU KNOW OF ANYONE I CAN CALL?”

“Well, umm… maybe we can call a couple of places for you.”

So they called one- no answer, they call another and sure enough Bob answers. He explains the situation and then hands me the phone and I re-explain the situation.

He said, “Sounds like you broke your belt. I can fix that but you’ll need a new belt.”

Nampa had the belt! I bought the belt paying for it by calling Nathan for the credit card number. I then ran and ran and ran (never looking both ways before crossing the road) all the way back to the van.

Bob had told me to meet him there at the van but as I was running back I saw Nathan driving away! I ran even faster screaming, “STOP! STOP! STAY THERE! WHAT ARE YOU DOING!!!”

Soon I found he was following the mechanic back to his shop.

An hour later Bob wrapped that belt around the correct parts and BAM It was fixed! Even the Nampa guy whom I previously screamed at pulled up in his motorcycle to check if we were all right! (of course Naomi had to admire his motorcycle before he left)

Bob only charged us twenty-five dollars and offered us a box of peaches for the way home! Can you believe it?! We are so grateful!

My last post was all about how hard school has been for the boys so to the shock and utter dismay of many friends and family members, we have pulled the boys out of school! They were invited to attend my friend’s home school group. This is the same group that hired me to teach their preschool kiddos. Our first week was last week and it was wonderful but extremely busy!

I also pulled Ethan out of the punk soccer team and placed him in cross-country. He really loves this! The coach was so kind and welcomed him!

The boys still wake up at the same time and so far we are spending more time learning at home then they did at school. Ethan is still in band and both the boys want to sign up for drama club. We listed the pros and cons, prayed about it, read about it and then decided to give it a shot. Who knows how long it will last but so far so good.

The last couple of months Ethan was getting terrible headaches every day and really not eating well. He looked pretty sick. All week he never mentioned a headache yet still worked hard in all of his assignments.

Emerson misses his friends but says he prefers this for now. He is already improving on his math. I have so much one on one time with him and I think this is what he needed.

The home school group they are in is marvelous! These women have been teaching for nearly twenty years. I think this will be a great experience for them.

Grandma and Grandpa came for one last visit before they head to South Africa on their mission. We had a marvelous time.

The average daughter in-law spends a fair amount of time cleaning her house before her mother in-law comes. The average daughter in-law likes to impress her mother in-law and would like her mother in-law to believe she is capable of taking care of her son and her son’s children.

With this being said, the bathrooms were spotless, the kitchen was sparkling and the carpets vacuumed. There was only one problem… I had 60 pounds of pears that needed canned ASAP! My sweet, kind and thoughtful mother in-law volunteered to help me with this intense job. We had a great time talking and giggling while canning 34 quarts of beautiful, ripe, juicy pears straight for the orchard next door.

I am one of those food storage junkies with nearly 75 buckets filled with wheat, sugar, oats, salt and beans. It’s all organized quite well if I don’t say so myself but I made one mistake. One very large mistake! One hugely, enormously terrible mistake!

Salt and Sugar taste very different from each other yet look so similar…

Nathan decided to make the children a kool-aid slushy for lunch today. He mixed the ice with the kool-aid with the water and sugar but for some reason the purple slushy looked grey.

“That’s strange. I wonder why the slushy is grey.” He says.

“I’m sure it fine. Let me taste it.”

I take a huge spoon full and gulp with a whopping gag, “It’s filled with SALT!”

Nathan is cracking up and then it dawns on me- THE PEARS! “I used this bucket with the pears!” Yes, every single jar was canned with salt water! They are ruined!

The pears mom and I worked so hard on! They are RUINED! No wonder they looked so beautiful.

Nathan went to New Orleans last week. He was gone the whole week. I’m not one to mope when he’s gone. In fact, I just hold me head straight and forge ahead but when he came home last night, I nearly melted. I’m pretty good at making myself believe I don’t need help so it wasn’t until he came home did I realize how much I missed him.

Natalie won student of the week. She said the two principles were waiting outside her door at the end of the day to present to her a new necklace and a picture with the principles. She felt so privileged and honored. We are very proud of the hard working and kind girl she tries to be.

Working Mother

2011-09-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

Really. I was asked to start a preschool class. It's Monday through Thursday 10 to noon. I teach six including Lincoln. We are having a great time. It's been a blessing to spend time teaching Lincoln as well as giving him an opportunity to socialize with kiddos his age.

So... I drop kids off at 8:45 go home for a hour, dress and go for preschool. I come home by 12:30 and then Emerson is home by 2 in the afternoon.

Give me a minute to complain...

We worked on homework with Emerson until 8:45 last night- 2 till 8:45! He did have a one hour break for soccer. He was in tears yesterday. His language arts teacher is always yelling and the whole math class had to be late for recces because of two naughty kids.

Ethan was told by a fellow soccer player, "Ethan you suck at soccer." He wants to belong, he studies hard and wants to do his best. I hate that he has to experience such rudeness. It really broke his heart. He said, "Mom, I don't know who to be friends with when they all speak so bad! I can't see how they can use the "F" word, the "A" word and the "D" word all in one sentence and their jokes are evil."

I observed Naomi's classroom the other day and in the hour I was there, the teacher was able to go through two math problems! TWO math problems! The rest of the time was spent saying things like, "EYES UP!" or "Okay everyone, stand up and stretch!" or "Most of you are falling asleep on me!" These poor teachers have too many kids in the classroom! How much time is wasted?

I want the kids to have worthwhile experiences. Experiences in life that they can look back and be grateful. Perhaps they will be grateful for these struggles and find them as a tool that shaped their lives for the better... I don't know but I do know, I haven't been sleeping well. I can't stand the mother I am when we have time crunches. I feel like I'm casing them around with a fly swatter screaming, "GO TO THE PIANO!" "DO YOUR CHORES!" "GET TO THE CAR!" "FOCUS ON YOUR MATH!" "GO TO BED!" I feel like I'm not developing any worthwhile relationship when we are constantly on the run or constantly worried about homework.

Okay. One day at a time. I have to run to piano now. And then scouts.

I Know... It's About Time!

2011-09-09T11:34:00.000-07:00

I need to apologize for my lack of attention on this Hymas Herd Blog. Lately, I’ve going about as fast as Han Solo’s Millennium Falcon! Like Harrison said, “She'll make point five past lightspeed. She may not look like much, but she's got it where it counts, kid.”

Hold on patiently while I bore you with our minor schedule…

Ethan, Emerson and I wake at 6:15. The boys walk to school so they have to be out the door by 7:10 to reach the school by 7:20. Emerson really enjoys school. He likes his teachers- especially his science teacher who by the way has been known to eat snake and bears. (Maybe even children?) He has a group of nine boys that come from nice families and they all seem to fit well together. Emerson will start soccer here soon and will plan to start band shortly.

Ethan had some struggles from the start. His schedule wasn’t the right fit for him. He said he felt like Hermione Granger in all of his classes so after 10 phone calls to the principle, vice-principle, teachers and counselors then 4 visits to the school and finally a couple of tests, Ethan had a change of schedule. He is now in the AP classes. He feels overwhelmed and a bit behind but I’m sure he’ll catch right up. He is also in soccer (which is huge here in Selah). This is defiantly a change to his simple life. I think he is enjoying the sport. Yet, this move in general has been an awaking for him. He said, “I’m the only one wearing a watch during soccer practice so all the kids are asking me what time it is and every single time I tell them the time they use a swear word. I guess they're mad it’s not time to be over.” I’m starting to be grateful for all the preaching we’ve done. He’s having to apply the moral lessons he’s learned in the past.

Naomi started soccer yesterday. She of course says, “Blake and I are the best on the team!” She has a great coach! She likes her teacher and is trying to find nice friends. She is so good at taking Natalie to her class every morning and then meeting her after school by the painting of the hula hoop girl. She holds Natalie’s hand the entire time. Natalie loves that!

Natalie’s teacher stopped me the other day and said, “I just want to tell you how grateful I am to have Natalie in my class. She is just the sweetest girl and so well mannered.” Natalie comes home with mostly good days and an occasionally a bad day. The “bad” days are usually due to no one playing with her at recess. Natalie is in piano and soccer.

At 6:45 every morning we have the three Merrel boys come to our house for breakfast and then I take them to school. Their three year old sister is going through cancer treatments in Seattle so their mom isn’t able to take them to school. They are nice boys.

Ethan and Emerson are home by 2 and the girls finish at 3:15. It’s so nice to space out the mornings and the afternoons. I have more time with the girls in the morning and then time with the boys in the afternoon. The only problem would be how fast two o’clock comes. Basically, I have from 9 to 2 with Lincoln.

After dropping the kids off, Lincoln asks “Just you and me mom?”

“Yep! Just you and me, Lincoln.”

We come home and either we go for a walk or I run on the treadmill in the toy room while Lincoln builds robots. Let me tell you- It’s so hard to have one kid! I’m enjoying our one on one but he requires constant attention from me. I know this sounds lame but I’m just not used to this. We are figuring it out but he sure is happy when Emerson walks through that door!

I have SO much to talk about but I must run.

School Days

2011-08-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

As the sun was rising on the valley, the Hymas children were eating homemade waffles,

packing lunches, fixing hair, loading backpacks and smiling for pictures!

Ethan started 7th grade this year!

He had a hard day yesterday with a messed up schedule, new kids and a new school.

I can't imagine how he feels moving from a home and school he loved to new beginnings.

His dad gave him a beautiful father's blessing plus we had a great scripture experience yesterday so

I'm sure he'll do great today!

Emerson LOVED 5th Grade yesterday!

He has a big group of nice friends and nice teachers!

WHAT A RELIEF!

I'm so happy that Emerson is happy!

Naomi is a 3rd grader!

She had a so/so day.

She is kind and outgoing, I'm sure she'll fit in very soon!

Mrs. Maycock seems very nice.

Naomi has a big class- 26 kids!

She found some friends from church to hang out with during recess.

Natalie had the first day of first grade yesterday!

Mrs. Hahn is so nice and her class size is small- only 19!

She had a hard day yesterday but this morning she ran into a friend and they decided to meet during recess. This made Natalie feel so much better!

She fell off the swings and had to go to the nurse yesterday.

She also asked lots of kids to play but no one would play with her. This made her feel very sad.

I'm sure she'll have a better day today!

Now it's just Lincoln and I.

So...

We took a walk, sang some songs and cleaned the house!

Silverwood

2011-08-14T20:31:00.000-07:00

These summer weeks are literally flying by just like the hornet that stung Nathan yesterday...

Poor Nathan.

We had a wonderful weekend with the rest of the west.

At least that's how it felt- a crowded day at Silverwood Theme Park.

We actually ran into some old friends from Colfax.

We all enjoyed talking and hanging out together.

What a small world, right?

By the end of the day we were tuckered out!

Just Another Weekend

2011-08-10T16:18:00.000-07:00

Last Friday was the Heart Clinic's Company Picnic. We enjoyed meeting many of Nathan's co-workers.

They all seem very nice. There was an intense competition- a hula hoop competition.

Three categories- child, adult and doctor/boss.

I'm a proud mama when I say- Naomi whipped them away with her hip moves!
Yes! She won!

Not only did she show them up but she enjoyed her grape flavored sucker while doing it!

Then Saturday, we were off to Seattle!!!

We became trapped in the excitement of Woodland Zoo!

We were nearly eaten by a BEAR!

We were awed and inspired over Seattle's Aquarium.

Strolled along board walks.

And discovered the markets!

I really am awed by the creations from Heavenly Father.

What a beautiful earth we have.

Family Reunion 2011

2011-08-03T12:41:00.000-07:00

I shot over 300 photo's and drove over 1500 miles to get these.

Here's the shooting list-

First we picked 10 gallons of scrumdiddlyumptious cherries.

Then the kids and I first drove to Aunt Katie and Uncle Matt's house

in Boise before heading to southeast Idaho.

I had to kiss and shoot 10 million pictures of Baby Dezmond.

Aunt Katie gives the best piggyback rides

I loved watching my mother-in-law giggle with her siblings.

Getting pretty with Aunt Tami

Grandpa takes the time to draw chalk pictures with the babies!

Aunt Katie and Grandma are always good at taking a break to pose.

Happy birthday Uncle Josh!!!

Kiss-kiss Hug-hug! We love you Grandma and Grandpa!

Robbins Reunion!

Two of my beautiful sisters! (notice I didn't say 'older' sisters!)

Mom's are amazing!

Sweet little Sambo and Ethan on our hike.

Rett would only hold hands with Samantha.

Introducing...

Elsie Elizabeth (Yes, Elizabeth)

along with her new big Madison and my sister Theresa!

Uncle Jon made Aunt Suzie's kitty dance on its two back legs which made all the kiddos laugh like crazy!

This is most of the family- minus Mike, Doug and Nathan.

Aren't we cute?

We held a surprise birthday party of Claire!

Happy Birthday Claire!

One last picture of my little Elsie Elizabeth. Don't we look alike?

Seaside

2011-07-25T11:39:00.000-07:00

ahhh... Seaside.

Our dear friends, the Hepworth's live in a dream vacation wonderland!

We spent the weekend...

petting starfish, dancing in the sunset, making castles, flying kites, eating Indian food...

walking on the board walk, watching seagulls, turning cartwheels...

cooking crabs, taking pictures...

holding hands, kissing, singing, telling stories, collecting seashells,

swimming in the ocean, soaking up the sun...

burying children, riding the waves, mimicing the Goonies Truffle Shuffle, crossing bridges, climbing rocks, hunting crabs, riding boats, laughing with friends...

Thank you, Lael and Jenny for a fantastic time!

Doorbell Ditching

2011-07-20T13:31:00.000-07:00

We decided to explore the big city library yesterday. It was jam packed with books. Books everywhere! So many books, there wasn’t any room for the ordinary display of a single book along an empty shelf. In order to find a book, we had to kneel down on the ground and thumb through each individual book until we found one we prized above the rest. Normally, we grab whatever book is on display.

After about three minutes the kids said, “Let’s go. There’s nothing good here.”

“What do you mean? There are about a million or so books here.”

“Yeah, I guess but nothing good.”

Well, needless to say we stayed and discovered a good laundry basket full of books.

On our way out the door our neighbor walked in with her three young boys. I said, “Hello neighbor!”

A bit surprised she said, “OH! Hi. How are you?”

“We’re fine.”

She then said, “My older son tried to talk to your kids yesterday but your kids just screamed and ran away.”

Quiet embarrassed I said, “Oh no! I’m sorry. My kids can be a bit weird at times.”

I was a bit perplexed over that but then I’ve learned long ago surprises appear every day.

The day came and went and it was time to round the children into the house for bedtime. The kids started talking and laughing. One kid would start a sentence the next would try to finish it while the other kid corrected the other kid until my simple mind wandered but quickly came back to reality when they said something along the line of a fun new game called Doorbell Ditching.

“WHAT?”

“Oh! It’s so funny, mom! Lincoln has been running up and down the street ringing everyone’s doorbell and running away! It’s SO funny! You’ve got to see it! He rings the doorbell, screams and runs away! Ha ha ha… Isn’t that funny?!”

“No. That’s NOT funny! Is this what happened yesterday to those boys next door?”

“Yeah! They answered the door BUT we ran away BUT THEN should have seen him go into that one house!”

“WHAT?!”

“Oh. It was the house that’s for sale. No one lives there. He rang that doorbell and then belly bumped the door until it opened up. He thought he was Iron Man breaking down the door.”

I won’t continue the conversation. Needless to say it was long and intense but secretly I had to laugh privately in the bathroom while brushing my teeth.

Especially after hearing about how Lincoln lost or rather threw his rubber knife into the bitter and mean you-better-not-talk-to-neighbor’s yard with his HUGELY scary black Rottweiler dogs that sit in the bushes staring at your every move and will EAT you for a small snack neighbor.

That knife is forever lost. We won’t be ringing that doorbell anytime soon.

I'm not completely convinced it was all Lincoln. I'm sure he had a few Umpa Lumpa's helping him along the way.

2011-07-18T18:44:00.000-07:00

I ate a delicious peach today. It was soft, ripe, juicy and yummy. It was so juicy I had to hold a napkin under my chin to absorb the drops of juice running down my face. It was a lip-smacking delicacy!

Today’s peach tasted much better than the hard, green, non-juicy peach I had last time. That peach was yucky. I was afraid I might have lost a tooth gorging into that one.

Some peaches are tasty and some peaches are nasty. I’ve never found an in-between peach.

Some towns are nice and small while some towns are so big that some people get lost so they find it easier to stay home.

Ethan came home safely from The Boy Scouts of America campout. He had a wonderfully, fabulous time! He told stories of the Polar Bear swim, the NBA (National Bathroom Association) restroom, farting, skits, big balls, farting, rubber dinners, canoeing, rowing, farting and more farting. FYI- I do not allow that sickly word into our home yet every story included, “and when he farted. OOPS! I mean when he tooted, mom…”

I asked him what he missed the most he said, “By far the toilet.”

“You missed the toilet over your mommy?”

“Well, I did miss your mashed potatoes.”

But not the mom I guess.

I’m glad he had so much fun especially being thrown into a group of boys he doesn’t even know.

I must post the haircuts! The girls begged and begged. You may not recall but they had fairly long hair. I ended up cutting nearly 6 to 8 inches. They love it!

This was a little someone I found while making dinner the other day. Isn't he as cute as a button!

This is the amazing view from our back porch!

AND This is the other half our amazing view from our porch. We can see right into Jerry and Hazel and George and Fred and everyone's backyard!

Emerson never get tired of dish duty.

Well, there's the catch-up. Some days are filled with yummy peaches and some are filled with green peaches but we take what we can and appricate what we learn from each and every bite.

2011-07-12T13:20:00.000-07:00

Nathan, Ethan and I gave our Welcome-to-the-Ward-Will-You-Please-Talk-Next-Sunday-Talk last Sunday.

SO, since Ethan is gone at Scout Camp and because I'm missing him, I thought I'd share his talk he wrote all by himself...

Hello my name is Ethan Hymas I just moved in from Colfax Washington. I’ve been asked to talk about my family’s example to me I guess we’ll talk about my dad. I think he’s from my mischievous side. Anyway, my dad is a great example to me by his hard work and perseverance. I can remember countless Saturdays getting up early to work in the barn. I always hated working in the barn but the finish product was satisfying.

Now well start on my mother she is where I get my talkative friendly side. Also where I get my obedient side there is a story by L. Tom Perry about mothers that goes like this, “I recently had the opportunity to travel with Elder Donald L. Hallstrom to visit five cities in the great central area of the United States. In each city we visited, we would hold a meeting with the full-time missionaries, followed by a meeting with the stake and ward leaders regarding missionary work. Between each of the two meetings, the stake Relief Society would prepare a light dinner for us to afford us time to meet with the stake presidents. When we reached Milwaukee, Wisconsin, two young families appealed to the Relief Society to let them prepare and serve the dinner. The two husbands manned the kitchen. The two mothers supervised the table arrangements and the serving of the food. Three young children handled the table setting and the serving of the food under the supervision of their mothers. This was an opportunity for the mothers to have a teaching opportunity with their children. It was very special to watch the children respond to every detail as they were taught by their mothers. They carried out their assignments completely and fully. The experience caused me to reflect on the training I had received from my mother. Like the prophet Nephi and also like so many of you, I was born of goodly parents (see 1 Nephi 1:1).” That couldn’t more fully describe my mom.

My younger siblings are where I get my bossy mean side (or so they say). They set an example to me by teaching me how to be patient and a happy excited person. My siblings all look up to me so it helps me want to be a better person to teach them to be good. My siblings are also great examples to me by their trust and kindness. The prophet Joseph smith said this about his brother Hyrum and I wish to say it about my brothers,

“I could pray in my heart that all my brethren were like unto my beloved brother Hyrum, for truly he possesses the mildness of a Lamb, and the integrity of a Job; and in short the meek and quiet spirit, of Jesus Christ; and I love him with that love, that is stronger than death, for I never had occasion to rebuke him, nor he me.”

I’d like to bear my testimony that I know the church is true that I know that the prophets are preaching the word of god and that god gives us blessings and the prophet Joseph smith translated the Book of Mormon and I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ amen.

2011-07-08T11:06:00.000-07:00

We moved on a Friday. Went to church on a Sunday.

Called to be the new

Primary President on a Tuesday.

I'm still trying to figure that one out...

We have around 100 Primary kids!

That's a whole lot of arms and legs to control!

Coming in as an outsider has been very interesting.

There are so many people struggling and doing their best.

I've all ready seen little children with cancer that have parents with incredible faith,

children from broken homes pretty much taking care of themselves and

home-schooled kids from fabulous families.

I feel as though it is a big ol' apple tree full of delicious apples

yet

each apple is different and each one has a specific need.
As an outsider, I have no preconceived judgement which allows me to form my own opinion.

I'm learning to observe more, listen more and just love them.

We have been so blest here but I'm still trying to find our place here.

We've grown together as a family.

I've loved having the kids home.

We've had so much more time to spend together.

Every morning we spend a good 30 minutes or more on the scriptures then

we get the chores done.

After the chores we have free time and then find time to read.

We have been reading Robinson Crusoe.

It's a great discussion with great big vocabulary words we are learning.

I wish I could have the kids home all the time.

Ethan is going to Boy Scout camp this next week.

I'm so nervous.

He wants to go but as a mommy, I just don't know anyone.

I'm sure it will be well organized???

2011-06-30T08:42:00.000-07:00

It all started on a night of complaints by yours truly.

I believe it was total inspiration by Nathan!

Nothing and I mean nothing has worked as well as this-

He color coded and mapped out the house

and then

Assigned each little Herd with a color of responsibility.

There is a rule!

NO color swapping.

NO matter what!

Even if we skipped a day!

We always move forward with the assigned day.

Each kiddo is responsible for a meal with mom.

The kids LOVE this!

They have ownership in what we eat plus they get some one-on-one time with mom.

I LOVE it too!

I am really enjoying our talks together and their enthusiasm over cooking.

Camping Begins!

2011-06-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

The Hymas Herd had a beautiful camping trip this weekend!

The best part about moving would have to be the exploring.

Exploring the sites.

We might have enjoyed Boulder Cave a little more if we would have remembered flashlights...

But, then we would have missed out on this lovely waterfall that was hidden behind the cave!

I wonder how many pictures I have of Naomi up in or on a tree.

Emerson is such a poser.

While Nathan killed the campfire, I took the kids to the river. The river was high and fast.

When we got back to the campsite, the kids complained,

"DAAAAD! MOM DIDN'T LET US HAVE ANY FUN AT THE RIVER!"

Yes.

I didn't allow them to crawl across the beaver dam.

Silly me.

We made this trip as simple as possible...

The father of the Herd ordered pizza for dinner and the mother of the Herd bought muffins from Costco for breakfast. This eliminated the stress cooking or packing stoves.

The tiger

2011-06-21T16:25:00.001-07:00

Once upon a time a man went walking through the forest. His name was George. While he was walking he came across a dead cow. He was hungry so he cooked the cow and ate it. Suddenly he heard an angry growl. A huge tiger was ticked off at him. The angry tiger spoke to the man,

“Why did you eat my cow”

The man replied that he hadn’t known that it was the tigers cow.

“Lies” the tiger replied.

“b-but I didn’t lie!” said the man.

“I still don’t believe you” said the tiger. “But to prove that you are being honest you must complete three tasks. First you must kill a cow, next you must kill a zebra and, finally you must feed them all to me!”

“What if I try to run away” said the man.

“Then I eat you instead”

“Ok” said the man “just wondering”

So the man set off to kill the cow. Soon he came across a cow so he got out his plasma gun and pointed it at him.

“Please don’t kill me said the cow I’ll do anything” moved by the cows offer he put away his gun and left the cow to find a zebra. Soon he came across a zebra so he got out his plasma gun and aimed it at the zebra.

“Please don’t kill me” said the zebra I’ll do anything” moved by the zebras offer he put his gun away and set off to find the tiger. Soon he found the tiger hungrily staring at him.

“Where is the meat?” asked the zebra.

“I couldn’t bring myself to kill it.”

“But I can bring myself to kill you” and he pounced on the man. The man was buried under a ball of teeth and claws.

“I am going to kill you!” said the tiger.

“I can’t let you do that” said the zebra as he kicked him off the man.

“Me neither said the cow” and he jumped out of a tree and started kicking him too.

The tiger screamed in rage “I’m going to kill all of you and started to fight back.

“Quick” said the cow “your gun” so the man got out his plasma gun and aimed it at the tiger that was too ticked off to notice that a deadly gun was pointed at his heart. The man fired. The smoldering husk of the tiger fell to his feet.

Later the three friends lay under the stars talking.

“So” said the zebra “why didn’t you use the gun in the first place?”

“Because I didn’t think of it at the time”

“Well” said the cow “if he had, we wouldn’t’ve become friends any way”

“Yep” said the man “I guess you’re right.

And the three friends laughed under the stars until they slept

THE END
By: Ethan Hymas

2011-06-17T10:35:00.000-07:00

Here's the one last photo of our little house on Suess Road.

The sale went through on Tuesday!

It's done!

I had a dream last night the new owners charged us $75 per hour it took for them to weed the flower and vegetable garden. Now that was a nightmare!

Again, I must praise Patti!

Without her help, I couldn't have successfully finished cleaning the house and packing!

Thank you, Happy!

Friday the kids performed their piano recital.

Liza Dailey started teaching my kids seven years ago.

Can you believe how fast time flies?

We will miss her. Especially, her patience with me!

All of the kids did a great job!

Yuckima has a great Greenway path along the river.

It stretches for nearly 10 miles.

Along the path is a great castle park. We've gone twice now.

The kids love it!

Yesterday we packed bikes and roller blades. The wind nearly rolled us all the way there.

Don't Spray Jerry!

2011-06-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

The Herd is still a living, breathing sort-of-a family. I miss my dear Colfax family so much it hurts but the town of Selah is very nice. The neighborhood is beautiful and so far no spray paint on our garage door from the supposed gang population around here.

The kids are learning town boundaries well but only after a few mishaps. They had to be reminded again about the relief of body fluids in the yard- not at all appropriate for our tower on the hill sort-of-a house.

Nathan bought Natalie and Lincoln squirt guns last week during his fatherly escapade. They loved running about like wild beasts spraying one another but soon the amusement became dull so they decided to sneak up to Jerry, our retired neighbor, to give him a Hymas Herd welcome.

"DON'T SQUIRT JERRY!!!"

Lincoln loves Jerry. I'm not sure if he really loves Jerry himself or the fact a man named Jerry lives next to us. I found Lincoln climbing our fence, peeking his head over and saying, "Hey! I know your name! It's Jerry! Right, Jerry!"

Very tired of this little boy, Jerry says, "Yep and your name is Lincoln."

Lincoln believes Jerry was named after his favorite show Tom and Jerry! This is very amusing to my four year old.

We live at the end of a road that sits on a hill. The kids love to ride their bikes, trucks, trikes or even a wheel chair up and down, up and down- all the while screaming and laughing! It's a site you must see to appreciate.

I ran down the hill to take photos when I saw a few neighbors sitting outside their door smoking. I smiled and said, "Hello! Are you enjoying the entertainment?"

One man said, "Well, I just came from the war in Iraq to my nice peaceful neighborhood and now THIS!"

I laughed making him think I thought he was joking and said, "It's nice to meet you!"

I'm wondering if he was comparing my children to the war in Iraq because really, I don't think they are THAT bad!

Nathan thinks we should bake him a cake that says "Thank you for supporting our troops!"

Silly man.

I need to run- literally! So, dear family and friends I will blog again soon!

Catch Up!

2011-06-07T22:32:00.000-07:00

This is major catch up time! Yes, we (okay, Nathan) found my camera cord- kiss, kiss, hug, hug! I will sheepishly admit it wasn’t Indiana Lincoln instead it was a very strange troll that snuck into the house, stealing only the camera cord and set it gently into the door pocket of the van where Nathan found it… To save some embarrassment, I won’t mention that trolls name.

The night of the annual Spring Concert for the Jennings Elementary School was a hit for two out of three. Natalie woke up at the crack of dawn on that big day. She dressed in her dressiest clothes, spent nearly an hour with make-up and she even placed every hair clip she could find in her long hair. She looked SMASHING!

We were running a bit late SO like the Olympic racer she is, she ran and ran all the way to her kindergarten classroom to meet her teacher before the grand entrance into the gym where she had planned to perform. Emerson and Naomi also ran to meet their classes so figuring all was well, Nathan, Ethan, Lincoln and I made our way to the gym.

The performance began BUT to our astonishment it skipped kindergarten. “WHAT?” We thought… SO, I whispered to a friend, “Are the kindergartners going to perform tonight?”

“No. Just first through fifth graders.”

“Nathan! You better go find Natalie!”

Natalie’s classroom just HAD to be at the very, very, very end of a long, long, long school. As Nathan was running down the hall, he caught a glimpse or two of a little girl popping her head around the corner at the very end of the hall. He found a sad and disappointed kindergartner curled up in a little ball weeping hysterically.

All ended well though because her B.F.F. came to sit with her. They are two peas in a pod.

‘Picnic’ is the word of the day around here.

The kindergarten picnic was a hit! Perfect weather on a perfect day!

Mrs. Johnson rightfully deserves Natalie’s star-struck adoration! One of the very BEST teachers-

HANDS DOWN!

Just like the plea she gave us to potty train her when she was a year and a half-

she begged us to remove those annoying training wheels! GOOD JOB, Natalie!

Did I mention picnics?

Picnic number two. The Goodbye Party!

The kids invited all their school friends to celebrate friendship!

I MUST give the praise to Patti.

She of course, supplied over a hundred cupcakes and many pans of brownies!

Patti is a SAINT, really!

This is a funny picture.

Naomi had to kick her shoes off, throw her socks about, spit on her hands and feet
and then proceeded to climb the pole while the others watched in astonishment.

Lincoln. Hmm… While I was serving treats to all the very hungry little school children, I heard chanting. As the chanting increased, the volume did too… “LINCOLN CAUGHT A BIRD!... LINCOLN CAUGHT A BIRD!... LINCOLN CAUGHT A BIRD!”

Yes, yes he did.

“Lincoln, how did you catch that bird?”

“I saw tat bird and I quietly, quietly walk closer and closer and I CAUGHT IT!”

Mother Natalie made sure he didn’t keep it for long.

Ethan’s crew walked up to the river to the river bank to play some “Louie, Louie”.

It was so cute to see how much fun they had together.

These fourth grade boys are the best look'n group of boys I have ever seen!

Good boys and great friends!

Party picnic number three!
A Stone baked pizza party!
The Hubert’s invited the whole big church family for a pizza party
in honor of those moving away this summer!

They built this oven with their very own hands one brick at a time! Amazing, isn’t it?!

The big fat moving day arrived on Monday!

But first!
The Mayflower had a bit of trouble sailing into Suess Road.

Those movers of ours found themselves a stuck in the muck.

They were digging and towing, digging and towing
UNTIL...

the crop duster arrived spraying the movers with pesticides!

Nathan said, “Oh great. Now we’re going to have some angry movers.”

Poor guys.

These guys worked and worked!

It took them nearly 12 hours to pack all of our j-u-n-c-k!

I highly recommend these hard work'n boys!

Picnic number four!

Second Grade version.

My favorite part of this picnic was studying a boy vs. girl game. The girls had possession the volleyball sandlot while the boys had ownership of the grass and used a small hill as a fort to watch the girls. The boy’s job was to make sure the girls didn’t play on the grass. The weapons? Bubble sticks used as swords of course.

A conversation with Naomi-

“Naomi, I’m noticing you aren’t on the girl team anymore.”

Rolling her eyes, “I quit the girl team.”

“Why?”

“All they want to do is gather together for long meetings to talk about what they’re going to do and when they decide what to do, they walk only about two steps into the grass and then they get scared and gather for another long meeting! They aren’t even playing all they are doing is having meetings! I HATE MEETINGS!”

“So are you on the boy team now?”

“Well, I WAS until the girls made a rule that no girls can be on the boy team! The girls just don’t fight! They just want to have stupid meetings!”

A mom told me yesterday that her little boy is heart sick over Naomi.

BUT

all she wants to do is sword fight!

Picnic number five will be tomorrow with picnic number six on Thursday.

Nathan and the two little ones are settled in the new house tonight while the three older ones and I are camping out in a furniture-free home! Our neighbor friends have provided cots and an air mattress-

YEAH!

In the end, I just want to write how grateful I am for the many, many blessings our kind Heavenly Father has given to us. Every single episode in our life has had the most impeccable timing!
We are not taking this lightly!
We are very grateful and humbled for these gifts!

A real quick tiny example-

I forgot to pack pants for Naomi!

OH NO, right?

Well, when we came home today a box of clothes I ordered online came

filled with brand new pants for my pant-less Naomi!

So grateful!

Fires, Warts and Fainting

2011-06-02T09:23:00.000-07:00

A bit of chaos here on the ranch. Just a bit of chaos. Not bad really. Maybe it’s not bad because I’m either good at ignoring it thinking it will go away or maybe I’m just an expert procrastinator. Either way it eases the inevitable- the moving inevitable.

The movers will come on Monday carrying and packing away our Colfax life. Nathan will take the two babies and meet the truck the next day while I stay with the school kids until the 11th. Since our house will be empty, the kids and I will have a sleep over with either Happy or the Farnsworth’s.

In the process of organization, I have lost my camera cord. I can’t upload new photos on my computer without it! It’s so disappointing. I’m wondering if Indian Lincoln used it to ward off the savages. Pray for the discovery please!

On Tuesday we took the Herd to their final check-up with our favorite doctor...

Five charts and three nurses help weigh, measure and check blood pressures of each little Herd. We get in the 10X10 room and wait only moments for Dr. Mellor. He asks, “Who wants to go first?”

And with an ecstatic hand waving about in the air Naomi says, “I DO! I DO!”

Now our little Naomi has had a bothersome wart on the bottom of her foot for months. This visit counted as the fourth to destroy that annoying and painful growth so Dr. Mellor asks, “How bad do you want this removed?”

“Really, really bad!”

“So bad that you would let me give you a shot to remove it?”

“umm… will it hurt?”

“I’m not going to lie to you, Naomi. It will hurt but we can get it out.”

By now her anticipation levels were rising so with a humongous grin she says, “Really hurt? Okay! I’ll do it!”

Among the commotion of checking lungs, tummies, backs, bug bites (that Dr. Mellor called Vampire bug bites that the children believe to be true) and you-know-what’s we were sent to the surgery room.

Cherry Alice comes in with a tray full of needles and it wasn’t for Naomi. It was for Lincoln. She lays him flat on the table and leans head to head putting her arms on either side of his body and says, “Do you want the shots in your arms or in your legs?”

He chose wisely- legs.

I of course, held Natalie’s hand during this trauma event and felt her little hands shiver as one by one by one by one Cherry Alice stabbed little Lincoln.

Naomi knew she was next so she leaps to the table wondering out loud if she should lie down or sit up while he gives her the shot.

Dr. Mellor comes in and tries to convince her to lie down and relax but despite the persuasion, she has to watch. He numbs the area, talking her through the process which makes her feel comfortable. After the area was completely numb, he fires up a machine that is connected to a metal needle and literal burns a small crater into the bottom of her foot and pulls the pea sized wart right out. At one time, Naomi sets her other leg against the metal of the table which gives her a nice electric SHOCK! Smoke is rising, the air is stinky and Natalie falls over fainting.

Sweet little Natalie just can’t take the excitement. Naomi somehow leaves operating table and allows Natalie to take turn.

Natalie has been having the episodes on and off for over a year now and we weren’t too sure what was triggering it. We’ve wanted Dr. Mellor to see this and our wish came true.

Dr. Mellor said, “Why didn’t think of setting Naomi on fire sooner so to set Natalie off.”

In the end, Natalie was excited to go home in a very impressive pair of Looney Tune scrubs.

2011-06-01T08:50:00.000-07:00

Wicked!

2011-05-31T08:23:00.000-07:00

Nathan surprised Emerson and I with Wicked tickets!

It was everything I hoped it to be and more!

XOXOXO to Nathan!

DUM DUM the SUCKER/ Why You Should get a Dog

2011-05-26T11:38:00.000-07:00

Ethan played a sneaky trick on Lincoln in which Ethan laughed and said, “Lincoln you are such a SUCKER!”

This enraged Lincoln so he replied, “I AM NOT YOU DUM DUM!”

Okay, he probably meant to use that insulting word ‘dumb’ but we couldn't help but take it to mean- DUM DUM the SUCKER!

I wonder if Ethan brought home this very sweet essay on dogs to remind his parents why we are keeping Persy!

2011-05-17T09:20:00.000-07:00

Here's the online photo of our new rental.

It's a nice house in a nice neighborhood, on a nice end street, with nice neighbors.

Town life.

This will be a shocker to the ol' shocker system in the Herd.

BUT

Maybe, just maybe this will bring on new friends.

No barn work is a plus.

2011-05-13T19:30:00.000-07:00

A roasted marshmallow is epitome of goodness!

2011-05-11T08:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I met a stranger at the Steptoe gas station. We were doing the Craiglist exchange routine when he asked me why I was selling my stuff,

"Well, our family is moving and I need to get rid of things." I said.

He then asked, "Where are you going?"

"We're moving to Yakima."

And then with the same ol' reply I've gotten from countless people he said waving his arms about...

"AGH. Why on earth would you leave God's country to go to YAKIMA?!"

Everyone and I mean everyone around here has nothing nice to say about Yakima

YET

everyone and I mean everyone I've talked to from Yakima LOVE it!

This stranger was right. This is God's country!

We live in the most beautiful land on earth.

I love this land, our land.

But mostly, I love my family. As long as they come, Yakima will be great!

For those not familiar to country life, let me just say... IT'S WORTH IT!

(can you find her?)

2011-05-10T15:45:00.000-07:00

And here’s a picture of me. Yep, there I am- up on the highwire. Aren’t I graceful?

It’s a tough act to follow. Not everyone can walk the highwire like I do.

Okay, I’m not being totally truthful. I may not actually be up on that wire but that’s a bit how I feel right now.

It’s very exciting and scary all wrapped up in one. I’m scared/excited to leave, scared/excited to meet new friends, scared/excited to sell the house, scared/excited to…well no, just plain scared to move the kids.

Heavenly Father is pouring blessing upon our little Herd. The other night before bed I said to Nathan, “I sure hope Heavenly Father really knows how grateful we are for these blessings. I hope he knows we aren’t taking this lightly.”

We are so humbled and blest.

Yesterday, I put the chickens on Craigslist and BAM! Fifteen minutes later they were sold! Can you believe this? We accept a job on Tuesday and sell our house on Thursday! What blessings! (Papers still aren’t signed so we’re holding our breath but it’s looking promising!)

Nathan said we may not be selling our Suburban for a reason. I said maybe we should keep it for more foster kiddos. He then said, “ha. Ha..ha..ha..” What do you suppose that means?

Anyway, I assume I’ll be walking this highwire a bit longer so in the meantime, I’ll try to enjoy the thrill more than the fear.

Walking with Chickens

2011-05-09T08:56:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day was simply wonderful.

After church, after lunch and after a short, short snooze, we spent the afternoon chasing chickens.

Have you ever tried to herd chickens?

It's like herding children. We finally get a few to go the right way, turn around to get the next group only to find the first group turned around SO we start over again. Often, we're so busy focusing on the chickens that we forget to watch our step. Too often, we run into the branches of the trees, get our hair pulled out by a branch, scrape a knee or smack our head into the laundry pole.

But!

Children are much, much more rewarding than chickens.

Have you ever played Bowling for Chickens? Neither have I.

"When the real history of mankind is

fully disclosed, will it feature the

echoes of gunfire or the shaping

sound of lullabies? The great

armistices made by military men or

the peacemaking of women in homes

and neighborhoods?

Will what

happened in cradles and kitchens

prove to be more controlling than

what happens in congress? When the

surf of the centuries has made the

great pyramids so much sand, the

everlasting family will still be

standing, because it is a celestial

institution, formed outside telestial

time. The women of God know this."

~ Elder Neal A. Maxwell

2011-05-06T17:38:00.000-07:00

I assume I’ve procrastinated long enough. I must admit the inevitable sooner or later… We are moving. The word ‘moving’ can have a couple of meanings. It could mean- producing a deep emotional reaction, especially sadness or compassion or it could mean- involved in or caused by a change of residence or business location.

Well, I suppose we are experiencing both meanings. I’m moved with sadness AND we are involved in a change of residence.

Here’s to adventures and blessings! We accepted a job in south-central Washington, called the realtor, showed the house twice the next day and- SOLD! BAM!

Can you believe it?

We are still holding our breath… I’ve learned to ALWAYS hold my breath until I see the whites of buyer’s eyes signing the papers but so far so good!

In time, I’ll write about the wheat fields, the Butte, the people, my friends, the schools, the Grandma Shop, the grocery store, the clinic, the church, Patrick and Billy, the neighbors, the cookouts, the hikes, the mud, Happy, Sue, Michele, Betina, Kelly, Raelyn, Jaylynn, Liza, Jen and many more.

I’ll talk about the sunsets on the Butte, the howls from coyotes, the adventures with chickens, the waves from passing neighbors, the service, the example, my foster children and those young women I teach.

But for right now, I’ll cry a bit.

2011-04-26T13:46:00.000-07:00

I remember the yellow daffodils that lined the beds outside the Logan Temple fourteen years ago today.

I love you, Nathan James Hymas!

Happy Annavershrey!

2011-04-25T10:18:00.000-07:00

This shiner ended our Easter celebration.

Lincoln spun around and gave the couch a kiss before bed last night.

Ouch.

Our family celebrates the Easter Bunny on Saturday with our very own family egg hunt.

For years we tried and tested the traditional town festivities only to be burdened by the chaos of crowds. Staying home has proven to be the very best decision for our Herd.

The kids voluntarily paired up- big boys with Natalie and Lincoln.

Naomi felt a bit left out so she paired up with mommy!

They had a stupendous time gorging on candy all the live-long-day!

Sunday is the day to remember Christ and His Resurrection. Church was wonderful.

I remember a poem President Monson read during General Conference called

“Empty Linen” by Emily Harris…

The linen which once held Him is empty.

It lies there,

Fresh and white and clean.

The door stands opened.

The stone is rolled away,

And I can almost hear the angels singing His praises.

Linen cannot hold Him.

Stone cannot hold Him.

The words echo through the empty limestone chamber,

“He is not here.”

The linen which once held Him is now empty.

It lies there,

Fresh and white and clean

And oh, hallelujah, it is empty.

Beautiful girls mixed with silly boys

Sunday afternoon was filled with bubbles. Aren’t bubbles fun?

Although… BEWARE OF THE BUBBLE KILLER!!! Isn’t that picture creepy?

2011-04-21T11:48:00.000-07:00

Sniff…sniff… cough…squeak.

Yes, the impossible has happened! I am at this very moment high on drugs! Never (okay, hardly ever) in the Hymas Herd history have I been sick. I’m far too busy to deal with such minor matters. (Not really, I'm just lucky) Yet, somehow I’ve been struck.

I laid in bed last night practically moaning over the pain in my legs and back. I kept wondering how I could stretch the heat pad in order to please all the aches in my body. No such luck.

Nevertheless, I felt the need to brag over a night out with Nathan a few days ago. We spent over three hours, wining and dining (without the wine) and entertaining at The Davenport Hotel. We drooled over filet mignon and shrimp. The hotel was grand and beautiful- luxurious! With only four phone calls from the kiddos!

In reality, my life isn’t filled with gold painted dragons or hand-painted antique murals so before the dress-up began, I fed the chickens, cleaned the toilets, folded the laundry and came up with a mixed/matched chicken noodle soup dinner for the kids.

I fully enjoyed our lavish dinner and pleasured in time with my best friend but somehow or another the marvel and beauty of my rugrats outweigh the glamour of crystal chandeliers. (I sure am glad to know such a fact)

2011-04-15T08:43:00.000-07:00

Today dad had a birthday. I couldn’t have fun with him because I am sick and I was coughing and having to eat ice. Let’s get back to dad, okay.

Dad got these funny cards from people and umm… and one had a chipmunk on it but it couldn’t talk because its mouth was sooo full! My favorite one was the one we gave him. It was the one we gave him so it had a rabbit, a frog, a turtle, a chick, a squirrel, a raccoon, a lizard and a monkey. Let me read to you what it said…

Dads are nice

And really smart-

A dad loves you

With all his heart…

And when

you need them,

dads are there

To help you out

And show

They care…

Dads are cool

And special, too-

Especially when

They’re dads like YOU!

Lots and Lots

Of Love

And this is what I said to him- I love you, Dad! Naomi xoxoxoxoxoxo

This is what Emerson said to him- Emerson Hi

This is what Natalie said to him- Natalie Hymas I heart you DaD xoxoxo

This is what Ethan said to him- Happy birthday Ethan Hymas

This is what Lincoln said to him- Lincoln- except for some of the letters where upside down

My favorite thing about daddy is that he takes care of you when you are sick- especially when I was sick. He’s are really nice loving dad.

Dad turned 36. I KNOW! He’s getting old. I bet he liked the card. This is what we put on the sign in our kitchen; Daddy is 36 with three balloons!

Ethan bought daddy a scythe. You know the same tool the Grim Reaper carries. Daddy thought that was funny!

We love you, daddy! Happy Birthday!

from: Naomi

2011-04-14T15:03:00.000-07:00

For those that may not know, I belong to the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints *click here to learn more* or what many call the Mormons. Yes, I'm a Mormon. You probably guessed I was either a Catholic or Mormon with all those kiddos.

Anyway, I had the opportunity to give a talk in church on the April 2011 General Conference. *click here to learn more* A General Conference occurs twice a year when our Prophet, apostles and other church leaders talk and give counsel to the WORLD. It is inspiring and wonderful!

When we came home on Sunday, Nathan asked me to copy my talk onto our family blog. I was hesitant since my talk shares some sensitive experiences but through the week with this on my mind, I decided to share...

Pardon me for a moment as I compare Life to a ride down the stairs in a bottom of a sleeping bag. It was more than often my choice as a child to worm myself down into the bottom of that heavy sleeping bag so I really can’t place blame on anyone but myself. The game was simple, slip yourself into that dormant object, slither yourself to the very top of the stairs and roll with it. That’s life, right. Our spirits receive a body and we roll with it. The thrill of tumbling mixed with bumps mixed with the unknown is a bit enticing and often painful but NOT painful enough to stop because the joy definitely outweighs the bruises.

Paul V. Johnson quotes Elder Orson R. Whitney, “No pain that we suffer, no trial that we experience is wasted. … All that we suffer and all that we endure, especially when we endure it patiently, builds up our characters, purifies our hearts, expands our souls, and makes us more tender and charitable. … It is through sorrow and suffering, toil and tribulation, that we gain the education that we come here to acquire.” End quote.

I suppose most, if not all of us have defining moments in life. An a-ha moment that changes how you think or even behave. Please excuse me for a moment as I share a personal defining moment.

I must have been nine years old when my mother packed my bags and told me, I would be leaving the house I grew up in and moving in with my dad. My parents had just finalized a divorce so our life was a bit chaotic. Only a short, very short time later my dad came storming up the driveway and was more than ready to grab our stuff and get out of there. I was completely confused. So, my young nine year old little body started grabbing anything and everything that belonged to me. I didn’t want to leave anything behind- especially the twenty-seven wild barn cats that I completely adored that roamed here and there around our country home. To my dismay, I could only catch one, a tom cat named Friendly.

As any adult can imagine, Friendly the tom cat was NOT too happy riding in a car let alone being locked in a little girl’s bedroom for the night so before the night ended Friendly somehow managed to escape.

Distraught might not describe how sad I felt. I had just lost my house, my room, my mom and now my cat. By then the sun had gone down, the air was cold but my search began. I walked up and down all the hills calling and crying for Friendly. My body shook and the tears clouded my eyes so I couldn’t see. I prayed and prayed to Heavenly Father, “Please, please let Friendly come back.” My shoulders shrank and I sat on the damp ground and wept until I thought I might melt.

A short time later, I heard my dad calling. I ran to him and he said, “Mrs. Spivy just called. She heard you crying so she looked out her window only to see your cat, Friendly! If you go to Mrs. Spivy’s, house she will give you Friendly.”

So you see, that defining moment came at the very instant Heavenly Father heard my plea. He cared enough to answer my heartfelt cry. He didn’t leave me alone, he was aware of me personally. He answered my prayer through a caring neighbor willing to put the effort into saving a sad little girl.

Listen to President Eyring’s comforting words, “Our Heavenly Father hears the prayers of His children across the earth pleading for food to eat, for clothes to cover their bodies, and for the dignity that would come from being able to provide for themselves. Those pleas have reached Him since He placed men and women on the earth…

Because the Lord hears their cries and feels your deep compassion for them, He has from the beginning of time provided ways for His disciples to help. He has invited His children to consecrate their time, their means, and themselves to join with Him in serving others.” End quote

Again, the Lord provides ways for His disciples of Christ to help. “ We rarely understand or fully appreciate people’s circumstances.” says Elder Cook.

Now that I think about it, I wonder if Mrs. Spivy was aware how her small act of kindness changed my heart.

M. Russell Ballard has a great quote from President Kimball: “It is vital that we serve each other in the kingdom. … So often, our acts of service consist of simple encouragement or of giving … help with mundane tasks, but what glorious consequences can flow … from small but deliberate deeds!” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball [2006], 82).

Going on with Elder Ballard he said, “It is only when we love God and Christ with all of our hearts, souls, and minds that we are able to share this love with our neighbors through acts of kindness and service—the way that the Savior would love and serve all of us if He were among us today.

When this pure love of Christ—or charity—envelops us, we think, feel, and act more like Heavenly Father and Jesus would think, feel, and act. Our motivation and heartfelt desire are like unto that of the Savior.

My good friend Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin talked of the power of this principle when he said: “Kindness is the essence of greatness. … [It] is a passport that opens doors and fashions friends. It softens hearts and molds relationships that can last lifetimes” (“The Virtue of Kindness,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2005, 26). End quote.

But kindness, charity and a love of Christ starts with desire. Elder Oaks said, “Desires dictate our priorities, priorities shape our choices, and choices determine our actions. The desires we act on determine our changing, our achieving, and our becoming.”

Continuing with Elder Oaks, “Many scriptures speak of what we desire in terms of what we seek. “He that seeketh me early shall find me, and shall not be forsaken” (D&C 88:83). “Seek ye earnestly the best gifts” (D&C 46:8). “He that diligently seeketh shall find” (1 Nephi 10:19). “Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me; ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (D&C 88:63).

Three or four years ago on a dry but windy August night, Nathan and I were woken in the middle of the night with ringing in our ears and bangs on our door. As you can imagine, we were completely disoriented in our dream-like state. Nathan cracked the front door open and questioned the intruders. Exasperated, the reply was, “YOU HAVE A FIRE HEADED STRAIGHT TO YOUR HOUSE!”

True to his word, the cruel Palouse winds were accompanying a fire heading straight to the house with only about 20 feet more to go.

After the rush of fire trucks and the fear swept away, we had a nice visit with our new friends and discovered they were on their way back to their Native American Reservation home. The young couple and their small toddler normally traveled along another road but for some reason or another they chose our back road. They said when they saw the fire on the hill, they questioned if it was intentional and whether they should just ignore it but because the husband had been employed with the fire crew on their reservation, he knew better. He said, “I told my wife there was no way that fire is under control. It is up to us to call 9-1-1 and notify these people.”

I can’t rub a crystal ball and see what might have happened if they wouldn’t have made the effort to stop but I do believe that sweet couple was on an errand from our Heavenly Father.

Let me quote President Uchtdorf, “My dear brothers and sisters, let us strive to be among those whom the Lord can rely on to hear His whisperings and respond, as Saul did on his road to Damascus, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?”

The answer may come through the voice and wisdom of trusted friends and family, the scriptures, and the words of prophets.

It has been my experience that some of the most powerful promptings we receive are not only for our own benefit but also for the benefit of others. If we are thinking only of ourselves, we may miss some of the most powerful spiritual experiences and profound revelations of our lives.

President Spencer W. Kimball taught this concept when he said: “God does notice us, and he watches over us. But it is usually through another person that he meets our needs. Therefore, it is vital that we serve each other.” 7 Brothers and sisters, we each have a covenant responsibility to be sensitive to the needs of others and serve as the Savior did—to reach out, bless, and uplift those around us.

Often, the answer to our prayer does not come while we’re on our knees but while we’re on our feet serving the Lord and serving those around us. Selfless acts of service and consecration refine our spirits, remove the scales from our spiritual eyes, and open the windows of heaven. By becoming the answer to someone’s prayer, we often find the answer to our own.”

My neighbor, Mrs. Spivy and the young couple on their travel home did not wake up that morning with a written to do list… I’m going to help a heartbroken little girl who lost her cat or we are going to save the lives of a family of seven from an out of control fire.

I believe they were in the process of ACTING they were becoming a disciple of Christ, following the spirit and through life had planted a seed in becoming Christ-like.

Lynn G. Robbins talk defines this clearing, “To be, or not to be” is actually a very good question. 1 The Savior posed the question in a far more profound way, making it a vital doctrinal question for each of us: “What manner of men [and women] ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even as I am” (3 Nephi 27:27; emphasis added). The first-person present tense of the verb be is I Am. He invites us to take upon us His name and His nature.

To become as He is, we must also do the things He did: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, this is my gospel; and ye know the things that ye must do in my church; for the works which ye have seen me do that shall ye also do” (3 Nephi 27:21; emphasis added).

To be and to do are inseparable. As interdependent doctrines they reinforce and promote each other. Faith inspires one to pray, for example, and prayer in turn strengthens one’s faith….

Many of us create to do lists to remind us of things we want to accomplish. But people rarely have to be lists. Why? To do’s are activities or events that can be checked off the list when done. To be, however, is never done. You can’t earn checkmarks with to be’s.

Christlike to be’s cannot be seen, but they are the motivating force behind what we do, which can be seen. When parents help a child learn to walk, for example, we see parents doing things like steadying and praising their child. These do’s reveal the unseen love in their hearts and the unseen faith and hope in their child’s potential. Day after day their efforts continue—evidence of the unseen be’s of patience and diligence.” End quote.

Remember the ride down the stairs in the bottom of a sleeping bag? Bishop Burton says, “In many of the uncertainties and challenges we encounter in our lives, God requires us to do our best, to act and not be acted upon (see 2 Nephi 2:26), and to trust in Him. We may not see angels, hear heavenly voices, or receive overwhelming spiritual impressions. We frequently may press forward hoping and praying—but without absolute assurance—that we are acting in accordance with God’s will. But as we honor our covenants and keep the commandments, as we strive ever more consistently to do good and to become better, we can walk with the confidence that God will guide our steps. And we can speak with the assurance that God will inspire our utterances. This is in part the meaning of the scripture that declares, “Then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God” (D&C 121:45).

So, when feeling burdened by the ride down the stairs in the bottom of that sleeping bag and believe me, we all feel the bumps and bruises, think of this testimony, “I testify to you”, say President Uchtdorf, “that our Father in Heaven loves His children. He loves us. He loves you. When necessary the Lord will even carry you over obstacles as you seek His peace with a broken heart and a contrite spirit. Often He speaks to us in ways that we can hear only with our heart.”

Jeffrey R. Holland quotes President Harold B. Lee “the gospel is “to comfort the afflicted and to afflict the [comfortable].”

But then Elder Holland continues, “Obviously as the path of discipleship ascends, that trail gets ever more narrow until we come to that knee-buckling pinnacle of the sermon of which Elder Christofferson just spoke: “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” 13 What was gentle in the lowlands of initial loyalty becomes deeply strenuous and very demanding at the summit of true discipleship. Clearly anyone who thinks Jesus taught no-fault theology did not read the fine print in the contract! No, in matters of discipleship the Church is not a fast-food outlet; we can’t always have it “our way.” Some day every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is the Christ and that salvation can only come His way.”

I testify these teachings from a loving Prophet and apostles are true and by following Christ we can believe in good things to come. I know that Heavenly Father hears my prayers and your prayers. I embrace this gospel and am trying hard to be a disciple of Christ.

By the way the Mormon radio channel is a great way to listen to information on our church. I've been listening to it throughout the day and it's GREAT! A GREAT way to get information! *click here to go*

2011-04-13T08:23:00.000-07:00

The Hymas Herd considered themselves fortunate this winter.

For you see, we were blest with good health BUT someone, somewhere forgot to knock on wood…

Sickness struck hard and long during our spring break.

We had the fevers, coughing, sneezing, snuggling, coughing, sneezing…

I always tell the children, I like them so much more when they are sick.
Like a dry sponge, I soak up the snuggles now so I can be on reserve until the next run of influenza strikes.

Naomi had seemed immune to such fate until today so now the count is five out of five.

Spring break wasn’t a total waste.
We managed to drag a few of the sicky’s on a romp around the park in Spokane.
We enjoyed the noisy quackers and the beautiful falls.

Before the romp, we took the kids to the movies.
We watch Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Rodrick Rules. It was actually very funny.
Our family agreed the mother in the movie reminded everyone of moi.

Saturday Emerson and I escaped…Into the Woods.

I highly recommend individual dates with your kiddos.

We held hands in the car and during the play, I bought him a treat and listened to the rumblings in his mind.

Emerson is the nicest boy. I really enjoyed our time together.

2011-04-06T16:46:00.000-07:00

This was a note we received in the mail yesterday!

Thank you, Naomi for being a good example to all of us!

2011-04-05T20:41:00.000-07:00

I often wonder why Heavenly Father allowed my little-simple-self to be among angels. The Herd was roped by two amazing woman. Patti and Kelly are rare gems.

Kelly’s family has a tradition every spring break. They devote their whole break to non-stop service! What an idea, eh? I told you she was amazing! Today was cleaning, cutting and dumping for a Habitat for Humanity home. The kids worked so hard. There’s nothing like good hard muscle burning labor to make one smile! Thank you, Kelly!

Patti- a.k.a Happy. Does that tell you something? Everyone calls Patti, Happy. For you see, Otis her grandbaby couldn’t quite get the grandma name so instead, he called her Happy and it has stuck since. Happy does it all. She’s like a little fairy bringing charms and blessings to my little family. I’m grateful I had the chance to spend the day watching her endless example to me.

Service. What a concept, right? I vow to do a little more of this in my life.

Have I done any good in the world today?

Have I helped anyone in need?

Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad?

If not, I have failed indeed.

Has anyone’s burden been lighter today

Because I was willing to share?

Have the sick and the weary been helped on their way

When they needed my help was I there?

Then wake up and do something more

Than dream of your mansion above

Doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond measure

A blessing of duty and love.
(Have I Done Any Good? LDS Hymn #223)

2011-04-04T14:43:00.000-07:00

The best part of How the West was REALLY Won was when Ben went up and did the gold song called Joe Watson and when it ended.

Do you want to know about a funny person? Then let’s talk about Uriah. At lunch on Friday he put fat free milk on my desk in the solution room. Five minutes later, he tapped me on the shoulder and asked me in loud whisper, “Are you going to drink that?!”

I said, “no.”

Once again in a loud, loud whisper he said, “Can you give it back then? Gosh!”

I gave it back.

the end
written by: Emerson

Guess what? I won the speech, spelling, math and geography contest for my interpretive speech. The SSMG is a contest between schools in Whitman County from Colfax to Tekoa. I can’t say it was hard. When we got there we sat in the bleachers and waited. Somebody made a speech then we went to the classroom where we were given cards by an old lady (our judge). My card was #1 so I was the first person to give my speech. The three old ladies told me to go up there which I did but they just sat there and talked for about 10 minutes so I could sweat in peace then they realized I was ready. They told me to go. So of course after I started I forgot the author and a few lines but I survived. The other contestants got the same sweat treatment as I did but they didn’t do nearly as good as I did. After the competition, we got our scores and went back to the gym. The hosts tried this jeopardy game that lasted about three hours and was fun for about five minutes. Finally we were given our medals and I was first then we went back to school. I ran to mom and my medal fell on the ground that’s when mom knew I won. The end. written by: Ethan

2011-03-29T11:30:00.000-07:00

This was our fifth Pinewood Derby race in a row and coming from dead last our first year to second place our fifth year, we now consider ourselves nearly...nearly experts.

Emerson's BIG Mean Alligator Racing Machine soared down the track- Killer Style!

When considering a Pinewood Derby, one must be aware of the many, many, many rules.

These rules are NOT taken lightly nor are they a JOKE!

*These are purely examples*

- If a car jumps the track, the race will be run again. If the same car jumps the track a second time, that car will automatically lose that race.

-After passing inspection, no car shall be re-inspected unless repaired after damage in handling or in a race.

-Ungentlemanly or unsportsmanlike conduct by any participant or spectator will be grounds for expulsion from the competition and/or the race area.

-Focus design on allowing airflow around and over the top. don't direct air under the car. air directed under causes turbulence, therefore more resistance

2011-03-25T21:58:00.000-07:00

Today I shopped minus children.

I realized there is a whole other shopping world without children.

Does that mean a life exists without noisy children constantly clinging to your pant leg?

I haven't decided if I like it or not...

I saw a choo-choo train today and no one cared.

Ten...five...even two years ago, I dreamed of this day.

I looked forward to the day I could shop without children.

I longed for the day I could go on a date with my husband.

I yearned for a little peace and quiet.

Honestly, the day was nice.

but.

I missed those skinny chunks of children.

I was sitting with Natalie and Lincoln and told them, "My back hurts."

They were very concerned and asked to feel.

Rubbing my back AND in FULL agreement said,

"Yes. We can tell your back hurts because it feels like a Slushy. You know...squishy."

Welcome little chicks to our farm.

FYI...

Stay away from the dog

and

Lincoln.

2011-03-25T08:40:00.000-07:00

96.2% of all mothers...

Have a difficult time recognizing their children after a visit to the Hymas Herd compound.

94.9% of these mothers agree…

The stories that their children come home telling are terrifying!

BUT! 100% of all mothers say...

Their children come home happy!

2011-03-24T10:51:00.000-07:00

And she doesn’t know

That she’s an angel in disguise

And she doesn’t know

That we see heaven in her eyes

And she doesn’t know that she’s all right

She might have been blinded by the light

Of all the good that she does

That she doesn’t know

She doesn’t focus on the good she does

Can’t she see that we think she’s a saint

Because she’s givin’ all she has straight from her heart

She doesn’t know that she’s a miracle

2011-03-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

Three plus three equals SIX! (Can you tell what we do every night?) Six years ago two people traveled to the hospital and came home with three then became a family of SIX.

A bouncing baby girl!

She is an angel.

You will not meet another child as loving and sensitive as Natalie Linda.

Happy Birthday Baby!

2011-03-22T14:34:00.000-07:00

Need I say more?

2011-03-21T14:31:00.000-07:00

Sitting quietly, reverently and respectfully as the only refereed adult with five children for an hour during church can be compared to jumping on a trampoline.

Ups… down…potty breaks… talking…water breaks… tickling…legs can’t seem to hold still…laughing…

The above diagram provides a visual aide or map on the exact position of each family member.

Nathan has the job of observation from the pulpit and I might just take him on the offer to bring a water bottle to squirt the children if noticing any naughty behavior.

Two very embarrassing experiences have humbled me to the point of utter awkwardness-

1) An out of control rubber band flew over the heads of the congregation only to be returned with an ink note saying, “Thank you for sharing.”

2) “I saw your children using purple marker to color along the veins of their arms.”

2011-03-18T16:34:00.000-07:00

“Mom! Do you hear the words that I’m saying?”

“What?”

“You read my book to me?”

Today I’m grateful for the demanded attention Lincoln and I shared with each other.

Shortly after our gala, I heard this song from Marry Poppins and I had to laugh. I substituted ‘nanny’ to ‘mommy’ and then laughed a little more.

Jane Banks:

[Spoken]

Wanted a nanny for two adorable children

[Sung]

If you want this choice position

Have a cheery disposition

Rosy cheeks, no warts!

Play games, all sort

You must be kind, you must be witty

Very sweet and fairly pretty

Take us on outings, give us treats

Sing songs, bring sweets

Never be cross or cruel

Never give us castor oil or gruel

Love us as a son and daughter

And never smell of barley water

If you won't scold and dominate us

We will never give you cause to hate us

We won't hide your spectacles

So you can't see

Put toads in your bed

Or pepper in your tea

Hurry, Nanny!

Many thanks

Sincerely,

Jane and Michael Banks:

Jane and Michael Banks

Today the Lord has blessed me with a beautiful walk with three women I admire, lunch with my husband, a story with Lincoln, snack and story time with my kiddos and the most welcoming hugs from Ethan, Emerson, Natalie, Lincoln with hopes to catch Naomi later! (She enjoys her alone time after school)

Last night I was NOT grateful for that sneaky mouse that somehow scratched its way into my bedroom yet grateful for a reliant snare that trapped that ugly thing in no time!

And NO THANK YOU to those coyotes that scared me last night. Shame on YOU! This city girl is NOT used to these nocturnal creatures.

However, I had a nice visit with the Grange this afternoon and purchased my new best friend called d-CON mouse killer! BEWARE little naughty creatures!

2011-03-17T17:27:00.000-07:00

A good morning from Natalie reminded the Herd of this Irish holiday! Ethan and Naomi decked all out extreme green!

Emerson brought home his part in the fourth grade play. He’s so excited!

Ethan won the speech debate and will now go for competition!
Natalie and Lincoln helped me make green sugar cookies! Yum!

I wore my chef hat today cooking… homemade bread, cinnamon buns, chocolate cake, sugar cookies and crepes.

Naomi stayed outside splish-splashing in the mud after school. When I asked her about the mud ALL over her body she said exasperated, “Don’t ask.”

2011-03-16T20:14:00.000-07:00

After my half hour crying spell over the $280 Wicked tickets that really didn’t fit in the Herd budget and my restless nightmares over giant scary rodents, the sun has come out and the day was filled with bliss.

True bliss.

I preformed the daily deeds, read several letter books to Link and then sought refuge into the sun. Pushing Lincoln and keeping up with Persy, brought total and complete satisfaction. Lincoln ended up falling asleep so I opted for a longer walk- two hours to be exact.

We came home made lunch, packed for piano and headed to the school for the pick-up. Asking questions about their day led to an important speech assignment contest for Ethan. I asked when his choice monologue was due, “Tomorrow.” He said.

Naomi had her piano lesson then I dropped her off for her weekly ‘Sewing with Suzy’ class and I rushed to the library for research. I searched for over an hour and found several books he could flip through. In fact, I was quite proud of the material I found.

I picked up the kiddos, dropped Ethan and Emerson off at the clinic to wait with dad until scouts, shopped at the grocery store and ran home. The day was still nice so the three little ones played in ditches, climbed up hills and jumped on the tramp.

Lincoln came in early and said, “even my ears are cold.”

I thank Heavenly Father for allowing me the chance to eat oranges in my kitchen while watching Lincoln run down the driveway in his socks and then place my cheeks upon his red ears to warm them up.

I’m grateful to hear the laughing of muddy sisters and then watch as they snuggle in the same twin sized bed together for princess dreams.

I’m grateful Emerson was done with his homework so he could play with the kids during piano instead of studying. This caused a great deal of joy to this hard working boy!

I’m grateful Ethan recognizes his talents and volunteers for speech contests.

2011-03-15T09:16:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, I was reminded a story about a father who everyday no matter how tired or how early his day would start the next day, committed to writing down how the hand of the Lord had blest his family.

Yesterday, I had a rush of gratitude for my kids. Have you ever look into the eyes of your child, studied their little bones in their fingers, smelt their hair and rubbed your hand over their soft arms and then wondered why the Lord has blest you so much?

Just Lincoln and I were home yesterday and I had the chance to sit on the floor and play castles with him. I enjoyed watching him count his guys and line them up in an arranged order. Noises like- “BAM! AHHH!!! OOO! PCHEWY!!” became quite familiar.

On Friday he asked me to build him a castle out of Lego-like blocks. I must admit, I haven’t done this since Ethan was four. You see, once I taught Ethan he in turn taught Emerson who in turn taught Naomi and on down the line. But now that Lincoln is home alone, I’m back sitting on the floor building.

I worked awfully hard on that castle. I decorated it with flags and guys. I even built towers. After the completion, Lincoln wrinkled his brow and said, “ummm… That sure doesn’t look like a castle… BUT that’s okay.”

I laughed so hard I nearly wet my pants.

Ethan finished the basketball season on Saturday. He loves basketball and we love watching him love basketball. There’s nothing like watching your child do something he really enjoys.

Ethan has accepted learning piano but as a compromise, he would like to learn music he enjoys and not the “boring junk” he always has to play. He found Indian Jones, Harry Potter and Star Wars tunes. He not only has been practicing them on the piano but he brought his trumpet home and arranged the notes to be played by the trumpet. He has been spending hours in the music room playing and playing.

Friday night we came home minus our electricity. I almost wondered if it had anything to do with the earthquake in Japan or the said Tsunami that was going to hit the Pacific. I’m sure now there was no relation… Anywho…. No electricity means no heat, lights or water! I hadn’t fed the kids so Nathan lit about fifty candles, pulled out the camping stove and away he went cooking up mac and cheese, instant potatoes and noodles.

That night in my personal prayers I was overcome with gratitude for our assumed gifts. My heart went out for those suffering in Japan and else places. I was grateful for the ‘light’ reminder of what blessings God has given to my family.

2011-03-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

It has truly been a tragic week. Ethan had given me the warnings. I heard his pleas, seen his worrisome eyes and told the consequences of such happenings but in my toxic weakness that too often invades a mother, I surrendered to Lincoln’s tedious and often exasperating supplication and desire to hold Ethan’s pet rat.

I knew better.

Five minutes later when I was informed that, “Thief the rat is taking a nap.” I nearly jumped out of my skin in horror.

Goodbye, Thief. May you rest in peace.

Rodents, rodents everywhere…

Thursday morning during the school morning rush Nathan says, “Oh no! Look! We have a hamster in the kitchen!”

Sure enough, I looked down only to find Nip Nip the Hamster having a gay ol’ time walking around the fridge.

“NAOMI!! You forgot to put your hamster away last night!!!”

“I DID NOT!”

“Well, then why is it in the kitchen?”

“OH!”

Rodents, rodents everywhere…

The dog too experiences joy in rodents. She collects their little bodies and places them ever so gently upon my lawn!

I don’t really appreciate this gift.

While we are on the subject of “placing things ever so gently upon something,” I must mention a snap I had with my husband last night.

We have been married a month shy of fourteen years. In those fourteen years, I don’t believe I have ever introduced or may I say “shown” him where we keep the garbage can. I think he might have a general idea where it is but not the exact location. For you see, Nathan ever so gently places all of his wrappers, napkins, ice cream bins, ice cream sticks and boxes on either the kitchen counter or the kitchen table.

You may ask… Why has it taken you fourteen years to bring it up? Well, I don’t know.

Anyway, I asked him kindly, gently and jokingly- “Sweetheart? Why must you miss the garbage? Why can’t you throw your trash away? You get sooo close and then… BAM! You miss!”

Nathan replies, “Honey, I’m only trying to place small presents around the house for you. I wouldn’t want you to forget about me. It’s my way of showing you how much I care.”

I guess it’s all in the perspective.

Family Visit Through Pictures

2011-03-08T13:42:00.000-08:00

2011-02-28T12:11:00.000-08:00

The sun was peeking its head out this morning. I enjoyed a short 20 minute outing before driving the kids to school. Just enough time to see the sun, smell the fresh air, look at the clouds, marvel at the beauty of pure untouched snow. The sun touched my shoulders and brought a smile to my face. The mother that walked out the door was different then the mother that walked back through the door. I’m so grateful for the beauties out and the beauties inside.

2011-02-25T11:21:00.000-08:00

For documentation and just for the mere fact of funniness, I feel compelled to share...

In addition:

Natalie- “Mom, I caught a hot at school yesterday.”

Mom- “You caught a HOT?”

Natalie- “Yes. My teacher wrapped me in my coat, scarf, gloves and hat so I caught a HOT.”

Mom- “Is catching a hot like catching a cold?”

Natalie- “Yes. If you can catch a cold, then you can catch a hot.”

Mom- “Makes sense.”

Natalie- (grin)
And an extra funny-

Picture this…

I was driving down the alley toward home only to discover Emerson outside dressed in a hot orange coat, black boots, holding his BB gun against his chest. Directly above Emerson (yet inside) I see Natalie and Lincoln sprawled and leaning against the window.

All I could think, “Emerson sure takes his babysitting job seriously.”