Get Smart!

Last night Benton was trying to get our little kitty out from under the bed, but every time he reached for the kitty he would get scratched....so he came up with a solution (on his own, I might add).

He came walking back into the bedroom with oven mitts on so he could retrive the cat without getting scratched. SMART! I would have never thought to do that.

Children's Day

Children's Day is a Mexican holiday where they celebrate all the children. The school gives them this day to run races, play games, feeds them lunch and gives them prizes. No work on Children's Day. This year we got rained out so we moved it into each classroom.

Benton found the candy right off the bat. That kept him busy most of the time.

They made the kids cute visors and played several indoor games with them like musical chairs, fruit basket, etc.

Alex got a little competitive playing musical chairs and didn't accept the fact when she lost her chair. HA.

Yes, they even made me play. Most of the time I had Benton on my lap, so I had to be quick. HAPPY CHILDREN'S DAY!

Garrett's Injury...NOT for the squeamish !

This is what Garrett's thumb looked like when we arrived at the hospital. It was barely hanging on. Two and a half hours of surgery and over 20 stitches later they were able to reattach Garrett's tendons in hopes to regain circulation. Surgery was successful and he is on a LONG road to recovery.

yee-haw

Our Grade School hosted a Rodeo to raise money. The kids had a blast. They enjoyed watching the roping, barrel racing, flag races and the stick horse races. Prizes were given and goodies were sold. Benton didn't know exactly what to do so he just stood there. Alex took off running and was about to win the race when she decided to STOP before crossing the finish line.  Tori tried her best but lost her Daddy's boots along the way. I came in third...not bad considering I was in heels and pregnant.  All in all, we had a nice time.

Trials

My mom once said that trials usually come in twos or threes.  This month they came in fours.  With each hardship it has brought on a new set of tests. I know I can come out a conqueror but can I do it with a smile on my face?

The first trial of the month was an emotional/physical trial. It tested the strength one can find within family walls.  When these sort of trials come out, you realize who is really there for you.  It was devastating and life changing. We are still praying for a positive outcome.  All I can say is, it is so important to be close to the Holy Ghost and to be able to hear those promptings. It is your only lifeline sometimes.

The second trial was one of patience. This is a stressful time of year for farmers and that alone brings a whole set of stresses and concerns. It affects every aspect of your life.

The third was a temporal trial. You never realize how much you rely on your vehicle until it is no longer there. The engine was seized in one of our cars this month.  We had family come to the rescue and help us replace it. We are so grateful for generous family members.

The fourth trial was one of physical pain. Garrett severed his right thumb while trying to tie up a wild horse. The rope was wrapped around his thumb and when the horse took off running, so it sliced off his thumb. It was a near amputation and he lost 90% of his arteries and veins and all of his tendons. He was rushed into surgery and now we are praying he regains circulation and mobility of his thumb.

Our faith has never been more tested at one time. We are truly being put to the test and I hope we can come out successful.  I know our prayers are being heard. This too shall pass if we have faith in every footstep.

Easter

Traditional Sugar cookies.

Benton at the Ward Easter Hike with Grandpa Hatch.

Alex waiting for the races to begin.

My kiddos loved the kite flying.

Me and my pregnant self.

Garrett fixing a broken kite.  We are so grateful to have a handy Daddy!

The Easter Egg Hunt. Benton cleaned up! He scored the most eggs.

Homemade ice cream and brownies were served for dessert. Everyone had to take a turn cranking the ice cream.

Tori and Alex were invited to Grandma Hatch's house to decorate the Easter Cake. Turned out super cute.

Benton at our fancy- dancy Easter Sunday dinner.

Waterton

This picture was taken on one of our last family vacations before college, marriage and babies entered the picture.  As long as I can remember, our family has had a Family Cabin in Waterton, CANADA. I have very fond memories of the breathtaking scenery, playing with cousins, learning how to waterski in glacier water, wonderful chocolate, free movies at the local theater, Serri bikes, hiking Bear's Hump, tin foil dinners, bears, and much more wild life, boating, kayaking, card games, family visits, etc. The list could go on and on. I LOVE this place! Most of my fondest memories took place at this location. Our family still makes an annual trip up North whether everyone can make it or not. I want my children to grow up with this same, wonderful tradition. Canadian FOREVER!