Did you know that Hyrum looks just like the new American Idol winner.
I had people after people tell me that my brother looked just like Chris Allen.
Anyway everyone thinks hes adorable and if he looks any thing like my
brother, then he is
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Mary's ever-exciting life...
Mi familia,
So, I know that I am one of the worst when it comes to posting updates but that mostly stems from the fact that very little changes in my life. Therefore, I don't have very many interesting things to say. However, I can always update you on OTHER people's lives so I'll start there.
Sam's brother Lige (whom many of you saw star in Aida at Viewmont) is a Valedictorian this year and also found out that he received the Monson Scholarship at BYU. (AKA the Hinckley scholarship :) Very few people, especially boys from Utah, receive this all-inclusive scholarship so he's super-psyched.
Martha is doing alright. Her counts aren't great right now, which indicates the cancer is fairly active, but she is hoping to get through Lige's graduation before doing any big treatments. Thanks for all your prayers on her behalf--I know they help.
As for myself, I am currently pretty much the same. I started on a new medication not long ago to help me sleep and it is finally feeling pretty consistant (it takes a while for the body to adjust). Other than that I'm not doing therapy. I saw my therapist last week and we pretty much just looked at each other the whole time: he didn't know what to say other than what he's already said, and I pretty much didn't know what to say either. Definitely a bit awkward and not worth the $115 :) So, for now I'm pretty much taking a break from that. Hey, I warned you--nothing much exciting here! My lastest reading endeavor has been re-reading some of my favorites and it's actually been kind of fun. I'm surprised at how "new" they feel when it's often been a very long time since I read them initially. However, I am still open to new titles from any of you readers out there. I am often found grocery shopping for the family, perusing the DI in search of fabulous finds, and watching cheesy Hallmark's or Redbox rentals. If anyone (especially you mothers out there) ever need me to be on the lookout for something in particular: new clothes for a certain kid, etc., just let me know and I will keep my eyes open while I shop the deals.
Well, I don't want to overwhelm you with excitement so I will sign off for now. I love you all--dearly. Thanks for all your love and support.
Love always,
meph
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So, I know that I am one of the worst when it comes to posting updates but that mostly stems from the fact that very little changes in my life. Therefore, I don't have very many interesting things to say. However, I can always update you on OTHER people's lives so I'll start there.
Sam's brother Lige (whom many of you saw star in Aida at Viewmont) is a Valedictorian this year and also found out that he received the Monson Scholarship at BYU. (AKA the Hinckley scholarship :) Very few people, especially boys from Utah, receive this all-inclusive scholarship so he's super-psyched.
Martha is doing alright. Her counts aren't great right now, which indicates the cancer is fairly active, but she is hoping to get through Lige's graduation before doing any big treatments. Thanks for all your prayers on her behalf--I know they help.
As for myself, I am currently pretty much the same. I started on a new medication not long ago to help me sleep and it is finally feeling pretty consistant (it takes a while for the body to adjust). Other than that I'm not doing therapy. I saw my therapist last week and we pretty much just looked at each other the whole time: he didn't know what to say other than what he's already said, and I pretty much didn't know what to say either. Definitely a bit awkward and not worth the $115 :) So, for now I'm pretty much taking a break from that. Hey, I warned you--nothing much exciting here! My lastest reading endeavor has been re-reading some of my favorites and it's actually been kind of fun. I'm surprised at how "new" they feel when it's often been a very long time since I read them initially. However, I am still open to new titles from any of you readers out there. I am often found grocery shopping for the family, perusing the DI in search of fabulous finds, and watching cheesy Hallmark's or Redbox rentals. If anyone (especially you mothers out there) ever need me to be on the lookout for something in particular: new clothes for a certain kid, etc., just let me know and I will keep my eyes open while I shop the deals.
Well, I don't want to overwhelm you with excitement so I will sign off for now. I love you all--dearly. Thanks for all your love and support.
Love always,
meph
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Jordan's letter
Why hello again Family, May 11, 2009
What a joy it was to talk to all those who I got to talk with. Thanks for being there. Sorry again about the time mix up. It was my fault. But it all worked out so don't worry about it. I knew it would work out so it really wasn't too bad.
Hyrum, congratulations on the coming nino. I remembered why I didn't write anything. I wasn't sure if everyone knew, at least for awhile. Then I forgot to mention it later. I really am excited for you. Oh, ya, my companion is a Spanish speaker, so maybe I'll pick up on a few more words. This is my chance to perfect my Spanglish.
Mary, I was thinking about that time going to Sam's you mentioned. If I remember right, we had to go in a very specific way, I think against the house or fence, to avoid the sensor light. It was fun remembering the expereince.
Thanks to all those who have recently sent letters or packages. They are always much appreciated. It's fun to know that you think about ol' Elder Pitt sometimes.
Well, there is really not too much to say since we talked yesterday. Oh, ya, thanks for the surprise. It would have been fu to talk with Holly, but Alan was alright too. Just kidding, it really was great to talk to Alan and to know that he's doing well and that he's not going to get married before I get home.
So Elder Milius and I have been working on putting together a vision for the zone and some things that as a zone we can work on to achieve it. We are going to focus on "harvesting' and taking advatage of the opportunities that we're given. Every encounter with someone is an opportunity to help them develop the faith and the knowledge necessary to move forward to baptism. We are going to work on inviting many more people to be baptized. We are excited and hope that the zone becomes such as well.
The weather is impoving and bringing happier people along with it. We feel that now is an amazing time to be missionaries and we will continue to do our best to help those we've been called to serve.
Thanks again for all you love and support. You are in my prayers always.
Love Elder Pitt
Dear family,
Just a note that Isaac plays today in semi-finals at Woods Cross High School at 6:15 pm. When they win, they will play for the Championship on Thursday, probably at 4:00pm at Rio Tinto Stadium. We know you have games of your own, good luck Rachel in State Cup, and there are many conflicts, but we just wanted you to know. Thanks to a great fammily for so many things. Dad and I love you and hope you have a great day. Love, Mom
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What a joy it was to talk to all those who I got to talk with. Thanks for being there. Sorry again about the time mix up. It was my fault. But it all worked out so don't worry about it. I knew it would work out so it really wasn't too bad.
Hyrum, congratulations on the coming nino. I remembered why I didn't write anything. I wasn't sure if everyone knew, at least for awhile. Then I forgot to mention it later. I really am excited for you. Oh, ya, my companion is a Spanish speaker, so maybe I'll pick up on a few more words. This is my chance to perfect my Spanglish.
Mary, I was thinking about that time going to Sam's you mentioned. If I remember right, we had to go in a very specific way, I think against the house or fence, to avoid the sensor light. It was fun remembering the expereince.
Thanks to all those who have recently sent letters or packages. They are always much appreciated. It's fun to know that you think about ol' Elder Pitt sometimes.
Well, there is really not too much to say since we talked yesterday. Oh, ya, thanks for the surprise. It would have been fu to talk with Holly, but Alan was alright too. Just kidding, it really was great to talk to Alan and to know that he's doing well and that he's not going to get married before I get home.
So Elder Milius and I have been working on putting together a vision for the zone and some things that as a zone we can work on to achieve it. We are going to focus on "harvesting' and taking advatage of the opportunities that we're given. Every encounter with someone is an opportunity to help them develop the faith and the knowledge necessary to move forward to baptism. We are going to work on inviting many more people to be baptized. We are excited and hope that the zone becomes such as well.
The weather is impoving and bringing happier people along with it. We feel that now is an amazing time to be missionaries and we will continue to do our best to help those we've been called to serve.
Thanks again for all you love and support. You are in my prayers always.
Love Elder Pitt
Dear family,
Just a note that Isaac plays today in semi-finals at Woods Cross High School at 6:15 pm. When they win, they will play for the Championship on Thursday, probably at 4:00pm at Rio Tinto Stadium. We know you have games of your own, good luck Rachel in State Cup, and there are many conflicts, but we just wanted you to know. Thanks to a great fammily for so many things. Dad and I love you and hope you have a great day. Love, Mom
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Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Las Vegas with the Browns
We had such a blast in Las Vegas this past week. Jordan and I went with some of our friends and stayed in my dads Condo. It was about 10 from the Strip so it was close enough to do stuff, but far enough away to get away from it all when we were ready for bed at nights. We stoped at Casablanca the first night and Amber and I got massages that next day while the boys went golfing. Then we drove to the condo, got settled in and then went to the Vegas Temple. It was beautiful. Abit of Heaven in
sin city. During our trip we also went to Mystire, which was fabulous. We shopped, and ate till we were sick, It was nice to sleep in and stay up late. The best news was I won 100 dollars while playing Bingo. It was awesome. The weather was a bit on the cooler side, so the boys liked it for all their golf they played but I love soaking in the rays so I was a bit bumbed, but owell. We had a blast! Ps. Did anyone notice my Braces are off! It was a happy day Im telling you. 
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Looking forward to Spring
The Browns are back.. not that we left but I hadnt blogged for a while. Not that I have much to say either, but owell. My kids have loved being outside the past few days. We are so excited for warmer weather. Jack actually got a sunburn today on his face. Jordan......Oh there is something new with him. He has been training for his triathalon these past few months, and Im so proud of him. The race is in two weeks, down at the American fork Rec. Center. Anyway he is excited. Its for work and he once again is hoping to beat his boss. Jack is becoming a big helper now that he is five. He loves to protect Meg, and I love to see him do that. Meg is getting ready for her Spring dance rectial, and so and I. Meg has her last urinary reflux check up next week and we are crossing our fingers that its all good so we dont have to do the surgery. Well there is about us lately. We feel really blessed to have such good neighboors right now. We really do like where we are, we may break the two year house move rule. We have been in this house for two years in May the longest we have ever stayed anywhere, in the six years of marriage. Horray for us
Some Recipes and an Update!
Hello everyone!! Well Hyrum and I are probably the worst at updating you about our lives on the blog... but I will attempt today! :)
First things first... a lot of you wanted the recipe for the dessert I brought to fast sunday this month.... here it is!
Chocolate chip cookie dough cheesecake bars!
Baking: 325 for about 30 minutes
So.. this recipe happens in 3 different parts (crust, dough, and filling) so I'll go through each.
Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
5 T butter, melted
2/3 c (4 oz) miniature semisweet chocolate chips (I used milk choc chips for eveything in this and it turned out well..)
Dough:
5 T butter, at room temperature
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
3 T sugar
1/8 t salt
1 t vanilla extract
3/4 c flour
1 c (6 oz) semisweet chocolate chips
Filling:
10 0z cream cheese, room temperature
1/4 c sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1 t vanilla extract
1/3 c semisweet chocolate chips (don't add to filling..)
Crust:
Butter a 9" square baking pan and line the pan with a piece of wax paper that is long enough to go over the edges. Butter the paper.
In a bowl, stir the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the crumbs are moist (they won't be REALLY wet, and that's fine) Stir in the chocolate chips.
Press the crumb mixture evenly over the bottom and 1 " up the sides of the pan. Bake for 6 minutes (at 325).
Dough:
In a bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter, brown sugar, sugar, salt, and vanilla until smooth. Add flour, mixing just enough to mix it in. Stir in the chocolate chips. - Set aside
Filling:
In a bowl (with clean beaters), beat the cream cheese and sugar just until smooth (I didn't wait until my cream cheese was room temp so it got pretty lumpy. I just left it and it turned out fine once it baked.... so don't worry if it doesn't really smooth out.) Mix in the egg and vanilla just enough to mix in.
Pour the cheesecake batter onto the crust. Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough over the top of the batter. Bake until the top feels dry and firm and looks set if you shake the pan - 30 minutes.
Put the 1/3 c chocolate chips in the microwave until melted. Use a spoon to drizzle it over the bars.
Cool the bars completely in the pan (about an hour). The chocolate topping will be set when the bars are cool. We had some right after they were done warm, and then some later once they had cooled- and they do tast better cold-FYI
The bars can be covered and stored in the fridge (the recipe says for up to 3 days). Enjoy!!!
_________________________________________________________________
Also... not to make this extremely long... but I just found a really really yummy cupcake recipe. I made them for my brother's birthday with all white chocolate ingredients (he doesn't like chocolate! go figure!) but it's intended for milk chocolate - both are good!! There's a bundt cake store in Vegas, called "Nothing Bundt Cake" and that's where these are from!
"Nothing Bundt Cake" Chocolate Chip Chocolate Cupcakes
Mix Together:
1 pkg. chocolate cake mix (from a box)
1/2 c warm water
1/2 c vegetable oil
3 eggs
1 small pkg. instant chocolate pudding mix (just the powder- don't make the pudding)
1 c sour cream
2 c chocolate chips
The batter will be fluffy
Pour into lined cupcake trays (fill about 3/4 of the way up, they will rise)
Bake for 15-17 (15 was just right when I did it) minutes at 375 degrees.
*Or you can pour the batter into a greased bundt pan and bake it at 375 for 50 mintues (I haven't tried that yet)
This recipe makes about 30 cupcakes.
Frosting:
8 oz softened cream cheese
1/2 stick soft butter
3 c powdered sugar
1 t vanilla
1 T water if needed (I put in about a teaspoon)
__________________________________________________________________
Anyway... Well we have been doing other things besides making yummy treats!! I am just about over my latest cold and happy to be able to breathe again :). School is going well and my internship has been pretty enjoyable lately. Hyrum has been really busy studying for his LEED test (He's trying to become a LEED AP, which is the new environmental way to build in construction. It's really big right now, and most companies are trying to head in that direction. It should make him more of an asset, which we all know is key in today's economy!- oops! did I say the economy word?) Anyway, the test is in a couple weeks (wish him good luck!) He's also busy with work, school, and callings like always.
We're starting to get excited about moving on from school and into the 'real world' (if we can get a job! nothing too concrete in that arena yet.. but we're really hopeful and feeling ok about things). It's hard to really appreciate your schooling when you're right in the middle of it :)
We went to see Aida last week, and it was amazing!! If you haven't seen it, go tonight (I think today's the last show, right?) I had never seen Aida, so I loved it and they have really done an awesome job at the school. Thanks for the head's up Mary! It was also fun to walk around the legend that is Viewmont :) and see all the sites (I was appalled there was such a thing as "Stud Hall" though!!! :)
Last night our Social Work student association (BSWSA) that I am the publicity chair for, put on a benefit concert for The Center for Women and Children in Crisis. It went really well and we had a pretty good turn out (which we were relieved about!) We have yet to see how much we really made after paying the venue and performers... but I think it turned out ok. It's a relief to have it over!
Well, that's all our latest, sorry this is SO LONG!! For any of you who are still reading, we love you and are excited for Bear Lake!! Woo!
jenna & hyrum
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Hello family! Yes, it has been such a long time since we wrote, and I know that Jason will never take his turn, and so it is Jenny writing again! We just wanted to let everyone officially know that we are expecting a baby in September! I am about 12 weeks along, and we are so excited. As you know, I love babies and I hate pregnancies! But so far this one has been a lot better than the rest. I am feeling sick, but it doesn't seem to be as intense as in the past. I know what you're thinking--it's a boy--hopefully! But either way we will be happy to just have a healthy little baby. Our kids are so thrilled. Preston is very careful to always tell me how beautiful I look (even when I know I look awful)--he has learned that from his dad. Madison kisses my tummy all the time and is so concerned about my health. She is constantly saying things like, "Mom, you better lie down" or "Mom, can I get you anything that you crave?" or "Mom, go to bed and I'll clean the house!" Kate just tells me every morning that my tummy is definitely getting bigger and I better be careful not to get too big! And Tess thinks that she's pregnant too. She goes around holding a throw up bowl and pretends to throw up in it and then she'll say things like, "My baby is tired, I better go get some rest" and "My baby is hungry, I better eat some fruit snacks." She gets very offended when other people talk to me about my baby and not to her about hers. She has also struggled with being a "big girl." She refuses to go in the potty and today she sucked on a bottle all day--don't tell her dad! I'm just letting her ride with it. It would be hard to accept the fact that a new baby was coming to take your place in the family! Anyway, I love you all and I am so excited to hear about Ammon and Natalie having a baby as well! Keep in touch. --Jenny
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Viemont's musical...AIDA
Hey fam,
I just wanted all of you to know that this year's musical at Viewmont is AIDA. If you haven't seen this, (and even if you have) the music is incredible. In fact, Ms. M might actually redeem herself this year as far as musical's go. :) Also, Sam's little bro Lige is the male lead Radames. He has a fabulous voice and will do a great job...sisterly bias aside. The musical opens March 6th (a Friday) and runs through the following Saturday (with the exception of Wednesday night). Mom said she'd be glad to pick up the tickets for anyone who would like to go, you'd just need to tell her how many, what night, etc. I'd love for you to be able to see Lige but I know sometimes these things are hard to get to.
Also, tomorrow, Feb 23rd is Viewmon'ts Broadway concert. It is at 7:30 pm at Abravenal Hall and it is free. The broadway concert is always a fun one because you get to hear a variety of good broadway music. It could be a fun FHE (well, for mom's and daughters maybe) so just thought I'd let you know. Have a wonderful Sabbath and let me know if you have any questions or anything.
Love you,
Mary
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I just wanted all of you to know that this year's musical at Viewmont is AIDA. If you haven't seen this, (and even if you have) the music is incredible. In fact, Ms. M might actually redeem herself this year as far as musical's go. :) Also, Sam's little bro Lige is the male lead Radames. He has a fabulous voice and will do a great job...sisterly bias aside. The musical opens March 6th (a Friday) and runs through the following Saturday (with the exception of Wednesday night). Mom said she'd be glad to pick up the tickets for anyone who would like to go, you'd just need to tell her how many, what night, etc. I'd love for you to be able to see Lige but I know sometimes these things are hard to get to.
Also, tomorrow, Feb 23rd is Viewmon'ts Broadway concert. It is at 7:30 pm at Abravenal Hall and it is free. The broadway concert is always a fun one because you get to hear a variety of good broadway music. It could be a fun FHE (well, for mom's and daughters maybe) so just thought I'd let you know. Have a wonderful Sabbath and let me know if you have any questions or anything.
Love you,
Mary
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Friday, February 13, 2009
Thursday, February 12, 2009
The Browns
Well I havent written about all of us for a while so here it goes. Jordan
is doing good at work, actually last month was one of his best sales
months so we are grateful. He is going to the Masters in April and he
is so excited. (He gets to watch Tiger Woods golf)
I am hanging in there if I need to be honest. I did get some hair extentions which help me feel pretty on days that I dont
Dance is going good though. Our classes are really fun.
Alicia is doing such a good job with Megs class.
Speaking of Meg she got her ears pierced the other day. Her and Kennahdy got
the ich and we let them. She definetly cried alot but she got through it. She already
has had to go to all of her girl friends houses to show them, her prettys she calls
them. She cracks me up.
Jack has been loving school, and Im so glad. He loves doing homework and
going on the field trips. He loves structure its funny. Every morning he says
"So whats the plan for today mom. " Anyway he is sweet
Well I guess that is it for us. I hope you are all doing well and getting through these tough times of life. We will be blessed by doing the right. At least thats what Im counting on.
is doing good at work, actually last month was one of his best sales
months so we are grateful. He is going to the Masters in April and he
is so excited. (He gets to watch Tiger Woods golf)
I am hanging in there if I need to be honest. I did get some hair extentions which help me feel pretty on days that I dont
Dance is going good though. Our classes are really fun.
Alicia is doing such a good job with Megs class.
Speaking of Meg she got her ears pierced the other day. Her and Kennahdy got
the ich and we let them. She definetly cried alot but she got through it. She already
has had to go to all of her girl friends houses to show them, her prettys she calls
them. She cracks me up.
Jack has been loving school, and Im so glad. He loves doing homework andgoing on the field trips. He loves structure its funny. Every morning he says
"So whats the plan for today mom. " Anyway he is sweet
Well I guess that is it for us. I hope you are all doing well and getting through these tough times of life. We will be blessed by doing the right. At least thats what Im counting on.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Live From American Fork
So, it's been my turn to do our periodical entry for oh. . . about 3 months now. So I thought that I would hopefully make up for my procrastination and write an entry right now on a Saturday night when I should probably be getting the house in order but too tired for that fun stuff. Anyway for the highlights.
Life continues onward for us with all its ups and downs. We've had some great moments the past three months as well as heart wrenching experiences.
We loved the holidays, it was great to see everyone during Thanksgiving and Christmas. We really enjoyed the outings with the family as well as the much needed down time at home. We stayed home the whole day of Christmas and loved every minute of it. Of course it helped that we got tons of snow that day!
January was filled with getting back into the swing of things. The kids were ready to get back to school, and I was ready for the routine--although it was sure nice to have the older kids home.
Ryan and I stay pretty busy with our callings, especially on Sundays. Our goal for the year is to figure out some way to make Sunday enjoyable even if we have to tag team meetings a good portion of the day. But we love our opportunities to serve and the Lord truly makes up for the time and effort we sacrifice in the work. I have loved being with the young women. They have so much promise and there is such a good light around them. My girls all beg to come to Tuesday night activities with me. So I take them occasionally and the just love it. Ryan still has a job which we are extremely grateful for, as IBM laid off 15,000 employees this first quarter of the year. We get nervous, but then we remember that we are doing our best to live with-in our means, pay of our debt, and build our food storage. We've come to see how important trusting in the Lord is at this time of challenge in our world. It's nice to hear the kids say things like, "Mom, we don't need that DVD, we just want it." They have noticed a difference and we are grateful for their support and positive attitude about cutting back. We really haven't missed the Satellite service, and continue to realize each day how much of the good things we really have.
I stay busy with the Mom stuff, plus YW and dance. To great things happened for me this past month. I met my weight-loss goal, which feels good and have moved on to a maintaining goal. It's nice to feel like I have better control over my eating habits and that I can say no, and it's okay. The other great thing is I got the chance to spend a whole day at a Modern Dance Reunion at BYU. It was fun to catch up with old classmates, take a dance class, listen to panel discussions on mentoring and enjoy a wonderful concert of contemporary dance. I love dance! It was a much need retreat after a stressful month. Rebekah had a great piano recital this past month. She even played a song that she composed herself. I love watching her grow and learn. She is such a good helper and a great friend.
Joshua has loved cooking this month. He will be in the kitchen anytime you need him or on his own creating and crafting up yummy treats. He is doing great in school and is looking forward to Spring soccer.
Lydia continues to love life. She enjoys every minute she can either with her friends or playing with her siblings. She is a great helper with Matthias and is always good for a kiss.
Sarah spent the month of January working on staying in her bed in the morning till Ry or I go and get her. She had been getting up at 5:00 - 5:30 each morning and it was killing us! She now gets up around 6:30 and remembers to wait. All her hard work was rewarded with a Bitty Baby which she has enjoyed taking care of. We love her girly ways and grateful for her princess personality.
Matthias (Ty) continues to grow and become such a big boy! He knows three signs now,for the words: milk, more, and please. He can say uh-oh and he loves to help. He loves using his hands and is always good for a game of swing-in-the blanket. We are so thankful he is a part of our family.
We've decided to make the Mutual theme this year 1 Timothy 4:12--Be thou an example our family theme. It should be a good one for this year
Well I think this lengthy entry has just made up for the past three months, and hopefully those of you reading this are still awake. We love all of you! We are happy for Aaron passing his boards, and are excited for their new adventure. We love seeing those of you close by. And if anyone is ever in the neighborhood we always visitors! Have a great February.
Love Ryan and Jenn
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Potlatch Pitts
Hi Family!
Sorry we haven't written for a while! We have made a goal, however, to write monthly...so you'll be hearing more from us. Life up here in Moscow seems to be pretty much the same day to day, but they've been good days and we're doing well. Ammon's practice had a pretty rough December and January, but things are picking up now that the weather has been a little better. Potlatch had severe flooding earlier this month and there were lots of people who couldn't even get to work, let alone the dentist office. This winter hasn't been as bad as the last, even though it has been colder, we have less snow. Not only that, but we feel more at home and have some great friends - so all around life seems happier even though it gets dark at 4:30pm!
As people call us and ask us how we are doing and "what's new," Ammon and I are realizing how much our lives revolve around the church. We love our callings and while they are busy, they are so rewarding. Just last week a recent convert in our Laurel class (who lives 4 doors down) that I've been working with for so long finally did something that really showed me that she had a testimony of the gospel and had heard something during all our discussions. I was so happy, I wanted to tell the world how wonderful she was for doing what she'd done. Ammon and I love those feelings that remind us of the feelings on our missions - when you feel such joy for having helped someone really come to understand and love the Savior and the gospel. We have plenty of people we're trying to help and most of the time it can be pretty hard and discouraging. But Heavenly Father blesses us with the periodic glimpses of what could be and we keep trying.
Noah is the best. He really is. He still doesn't say a word, but through various tones and sounds, he communicates quite well. Sometimes when I can't understand him, he just stops and looks at me with such a calm, wise face like he's saying, "okay mom, I'll be patient with you." One thing is for certain, Noah is a daddy's boy. He looks so much like Ammon, acts like Ammon, and when Ammon is home, he is in heaven. They are so fun to watch together and I can only imagine how much fun they'll have together as Noah gets older. I just hope we have a girl sometime so that I can have a little best friend!
We're hoping to get started on our house this spring and are in the process of finding a contractor and making house-related decisions. But we do have our plans and we're sure excited about them.
Other than that, our lives consist of playing Lightening McQueen, Thomas the Train, and "Secret Mystery" (our made up game that involves of a dark room and a flashlight), trying to be prepared (food storage, 72 hour kits, etc.), reading good books, playing games, and building snowmen, and just having fun being together. We miss you all so much and hope that we'll be able to see more posts on here so we can know what's going on in your lives!
Love, Ammon, Nat & Noah
Sorry we haven't written for a while! We have made a goal, however, to write monthly...so you'll be hearing more from us. Life up here in Moscow seems to be pretty much the same day to day, but they've been good days and we're doing well. Ammon's practice had a pretty rough December and January, but things are picking up now that the weather has been a little better. Potlatch had severe flooding earlier this month and there were lots of people who couldn't even get to work, let alone the dentist office. This winter hasn't been as bad as the last, even though it has been colder, we have less snow. Not only that, but we feel more at home and have some great friends - so all around life seems happier even though it gets dark at 4:30pm!
As people call us and ask us how we are doing and "what's new," Ammon and I are realizing how much our lives revolve around the church. We love our callings and while they are busy, they are so rewarding. Just last week a recent convert in our Laurel class (who lives 4 doors down) that I've been working with for so long finally did something that really showed me that she had a testimony of the gospel and had heard something during all our discussions. I was so happy, I wanted to tell the world how wonderful she was for doing what she'd done. Ammon and I love those feelings that remind us of the feelings on our missions - when you feel such joy for having helped someone really come to understand and love the Savior and the gospel. We have plenty of people we're trying to help and most of the time it can be pretty hard and discouraging. But Heavenly Father blesses us with the periodic glimpses of what could be and we keep trying.
Noah is the best. He really is. He still doesn't say a word, but through various tones and sounds, he communicates quite well. Sometimes when I can't understand him, he just stops and looks at me with such a calm, wise face like he's saying, "okay mom, I'll be patient with you." One thing is for certain, Noah is a daddy's boy. He looks so much like Ammon, acts like Ammon, and when Ammon is home, he is in heaven. They are so fun to watch together and I can only imagine how much fun they'll have together as Noah gets older. I just hope we have a girl sometime so that I can have a little best friend!
We're hoping to get started on our house this spring and are in the process of finding a contractor and making house-related decisions. But we do have our plans and we're sure excited about them.
Other than that, our lives consist of playing Lightening McQueen, Thomas the Train, and "Secret Mystery" (our made up game that involves of a dark room and a flashlight), trying to be prepared (food storage, 72 hour kits, etc.), reading good books, playing games, and building snowmen, and just having fun being together. We miss you all so much and hope that we'll be able to see more posts on here so we can know what's going on in your lives!
Love, Ammon, Nat & Noah
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