Raccoon

Dan Bikman caught a raccoon on his acreage west of town in a live trap. Today at church he asked Jeff and the boys to go out and take care of it. They did!
Devin got the hide and Brandon got the skull. Joseph helped Brandon prepare the skull to be boiled and I took all the boys (Aaren came too) over to Ron Lamb for advice on how to preserve Devin's hide. They were enthralled and fascinated by his work. Ron quickly worked on Devin's hide, showing them how, doing in a few minutes what would have taken hours. Devin would like to get it tanned so he can have the hide soft.
It is in the freezer now. Gross!!

Dental surgery

Tysyn had dental surgery this morning. His appointment was for 6:45 AM. Jeff took him in to Hall Dental. 

My anxiety about it began last night. Tysyn was to eat nothing after 7pm. At 5:30, Jeff had Tysyn, Savanna and Devin at a service project and when I checked on them at 6:30, they still weren't done. I asked Jeff if I could take Devin and Boyd to go do another quick service. Jeff said that would be fine and then I would take them all home for the supper that was ready. Savanna and the boys got in the van but Tysyn would not come. Devin tried carrying him to the van but that made Tysyn upset and he started bawling and kicking and screaming. Devin just put him in the van and closed him in. I took Tysyn from the van, walked back towards Jeff's truck and gave Tysyn his soother and he settled. After a little hug and a distraction from Julia Daughton, (Tysyn's previous nursery teacher and who's husband was also helping with the service) I was able to get Tysyn into the van. We drove to Sue Heggie's house and Boyd and Devin moved a big table for her. She gave them a frozen peach pie in return. They were pretty excited, but Devin kept complaining that the pie was FROZEN. I told them I would cook it while they were at youth activity. They could eat it after. 

We got back home at just before 7 PM (when Tysyn was to have finished all meals before his surgery the next day). We quickly set out supper of hotdogs, french fries, pork and beans and corn. We all encouraged Tysyn to eat and eat lots--quickly. He did! He had 2 1/2 hotdogs, some fries and a huge spoonfull of corn. I was grateful he was that he was so hungry. After he ate and said he was full, I got out the finger jello I made earlier in the day and let Tysyn eat as much as he wanted. Finally he wasn't going to eat anything else. (We may have pushed the eating time frame to 7:30 PM).

By 8 PM he was asking to go to bed so I helped him to his room, gave him a soother and laid beside him. He fell asleep quickly. He slept until morning!!!

Jeff and I got up at 5:45 AM so Jeff could get ready to take Tysyn into Lethbridge for his dental surgery. His appointment was for 6:45 AM. Finally at 6:30 AM, Jeff was ready to go. LATE. I tried to phone the office and couldn't get an answer.  We had T's car seat in Jeff's truck with the bag of clothing needed in case the dental recovery was difficult. I picked up our sleeping Tysyn from his bed, put his coat on and took him outside directly to the truck. (Yay, we avoided the "wanting to eat breakfast but you can't have any" crisis.) Jeff was waiting in the truck. I put him in his chair, belted Tysyn in and then they left. The nurse called our house at the appointment time wondering why they weren't there and if they were coming. I did tell her I tried to call several times but couldn't get through because no one answered the phone. I told her Jeff was in Lethbridge and nearly there. 

Later when I texted Jeff to see how Tysyn was doing, I asked if Tysyn cried while being put under. Jeff said Tysyn did well through the anesthetic  "He wanted to, but was real good. He was breathing heavy and that helped to go fairly quickly".

The surgery went well!!!! Jeff said that in recovery "he had a nose bleed and wanted to go to the birds. He wants to come home first to show his toy." (It was a red Spider-Man water shooter.)

Tysyn had four white fillings on his top front teeth and five silver fillings on his molars. In total he had nine fillings and some other work done. The total covered by insurance was $2072.80. We paid $20. I'm so so so grateful for the coverage my children received from the child health benefit. That dental bill would be so difficult to pay.

Tysyn was somewhat groggy when he came home. He had some more Jell-O and some juice. He wanted to eat!!

Shortly after he came home he laid down with Jeff and Rebecca and they all napped for several hours. After his nap Tysyn was back to normal. He was ready to eat and play!! And go feed the birds! Jeff left for work after lunch.

Tysyn's front teeth look great!! I'm wishing I had taken a few before pictures. Oh well...

This is Tysyn in the truck after his surgery.  His nose and mouth were a little bloody. He looked a little frightful. 

Endurance run & track meet

Aaren and Devin had their junior high track meet on Wednesday. Aaren woke up sick-throwing up. He wasn't able to go and was very disappointed. He really wanted to do the distance running. 

Devin placed in the triple jump. He will go to divisionals.

The elementary school had their endurance run on Friday. Maren woke up not feeling well also. She wasn't sure if she would be able to run. I wrote a note to her teacher excusing her from the race. When we came to watch she chose not to run. I hope I made her feel like her decision not to run was a smart one. We talked about how it was just a race. One she wanted to participate in but there would plenty more in her future. She seemed ok not to run. 

Evan ran with the grade one boys. He had a great time. He ran with a smile on his face the whole time. He came up to me with a fifth place ribbon. I'm pretty sure he came in about 10th but he was so proud of his ribbon.

Field Trip

Evan had a field trip to the Remington carriage center in Cardston. He was up early way earlier than anyone else. He ate breakfast quickly and was dressed very fast. By 7:15 he was ready to go to school. School doesn't start till 8:30. Every few minutes he did ask if he could go to school. And every time I would have to tell him No! the teachers weren't even there and it was too early! Finally at 7:55 I let him go. He was way early for school but he didn't miss his field trip!!!!!!!

Sickie

This girl hasn't been feeling well.

The story behind this picture is that she wasn't very happy because she hasn't been feeling well so I sat down on the floor to hold and cuddle her. I had a cheese bun in my hand and before long she wanted it, so I gave it to her. The next thing you know she was shredding it apart all over us. She was happy but making a huge mess!

(Sometimes I can't wait for the kids to grow up and realize that the continual messes they create are VERY TIRING on my homemaking responsibilities.)

Martins Cove

Jeff and I have the privilege of going to Martin's Cove in Wyoming with the high school kids in the town of Raymond.

Back row: Tyler Baker, Nolan Venables, Wilson Holt, Max Martin, Pa Jeff Hardy

Front Row: Bradee Ellingson, Emma Runquist, McKaya Baril, Ma Kim Hardy

Dear children,
The last few hours on Sunday were rushed and it seems as though we never had time to gather to finish the last few discussions before our experience at Martin's Cove was over. (And really say Goodbye as a pioneer handcart family..)
We still have two bucket stickers that we really want you to have and put on your buckets. I have been trying to stop by today. Please apply them to your buckets and make an effort to ponder the principles that they stand for.
We hope that you will remember these discussions.

Bucket Quote#1-Spiritual Landmarks
Devil's Gate was the physical landmark. It was something to let the pioneers know they were going the right way to Zion and that they were on course.
Our Spiritual Landmarks to help us stay on the path and guide us to exaltation include Blessings, Baptism, Confirmation, Priesthood, Patriarchal Blessing, Personal Progress, Duty to God, Trials, Father's Blessings, Mission, Endowment, Marriage, Scriptures. (And many more) These make up our moral compass. It was really awesome to be walking through the rocks near the river and hear the thunder cracking overhead. Remember God's incredible power and all that he puts in front of us.

Rescue Sticker #2-Rescue On The Plains
The Lord was mindful of his children out on the plains and he did send out many faithful and prepared people to help the saints. Many miracles blessed their lives. God loves us all.
(Flour rations were to be handed out at this point.)

Bucket Quote#2-We Are Because They Were
Remember and honor the pioneer you were trekking for. Look for things in their lives that can make you better.

Bucket Quote#3-Legions of Angels
This is to help us remember the rescuers/ the valley boys who came from Salt Lake and gave much of themselves to carry the exhausted pioneers across the river and bring them aid. Remember the river crossing.

Bucket Quote #4-Bring Them In
Martin's Cove is sacred hallowed ground. Those exhausted saints took refuge in the ravine. There was more firewood available and protection from the harsh winds and snow. Many people still lost their lives but it provided relief. President Hinckley loved the Cove.
Contemplate the peace and sacredness of Martin's Cove.

Bucket Quote#5-Faith In Every Footstep
This is to help us remember the faith and strength we need to overcome the hard things in our lives. Remember your feelings and emotions you had during the women's pull.

I hope you will read often the letters from your parents. They love you and want you to love God and follow him.

Rescue Sticker #2-Our Rescue-Come  Unto Christ
Sacrament meeting and worship brings us unto Christ. Missions, kindness and service, and bearing your testimony is your part of the rescue to those in this day that need to know of God's love.

Rescue Sticker #3-Rescue Through The Veil
Veil Crossing at Veil Bridge helps us to remember those pioneers that waited many years for their temple work to be done. There are many people on the other side of the veil waiting for their work to be done. What part are you playing in their rescue? How can you step up to your responsibility? How can you help to build Zion?
Please prepare yourselves to enjoy the blessings of the temple. Live worthy to carry a temple recommend throughout your life. Temple attendance and service in temple ordinances will bless your life.

I don't remember if we mentioned it but the impromptu trip in the horse trailer can be likened to the trip the saints took from New York to Iowa. They were crowded into cattle train cars and spent many days travelling by rail in unpleasant conditions. Be grateful for the blessings of this modern day.

We hope that you won't let your feelings and experiences at Martin's Cove be forgotten. That you will prepare yourselves to be ready to give service and take your place in the Lord's kingdom. Look outward to those that need the blessings of the gospel and the service that you can give them. Be willing to let others serve you and help those you know and love, find joy and happiness in the teachings of Christ. We ask you to recommit to the purposes of the trek and let it influence your life.

We love you all as though you really were our own children. We had so much fun working and being together with each of you. You all have many great strengths and talents. Thank you for your efforts in creating a strong Martin's Cove family. It was our joy and pleasure getting to know each of you. Please keep in touch with us.
We hope that you will love God and your families through all you do. And you will strive at all times to stand as a witness of God's love for his children. He loves you!! Never doubt that!

Love, Pa and Ma
(Jeff and Kim Hardy)

New shoes

Several weeks ago I got a call from Evan's teacher at school. She said the school was participating in a program where students with a need would be given a new pair of shoes from a shoe store in Lethbridge. Miss Jensen asked if it would be Ok if she recommended Evan. I said yes. Then she asked if any of our other elementary aged children could use a new pair. Both Cassandra and Maren were added.

Today, the shoes arrived. They are very nice shoes!!! (Keen)

Because I was at the endurance run, I was able to see Maren's shoes at the school. She showed them to me at recess. She came up to me with quite a swagger, proudly showing off her new kicks. (That's what Devin would say because KICKS means shoes)

Maren's teacher was outside on playground supervision when Maren was showing me her shoes. Miss G said she liked them so much she wanted a pair just like Maren!

Cassandra and Evan showed off theirs when they got home from school.

Maren's shoes

Evan's shoes

Cassandra's shoes

New Job

Brandon got himself a full time summer job.

He was hired on at the transfer station. (It is also known as the dump but because nothing stays there; it is all taken to other locations when the piles are big enough, it is now called the transfer station.)

He is the youngest person the town has ever hired in the public works department. He can work after school and weekends while he is still in school and then every day once school is out for the summer. He likely can keep it through until he graduates too. We will see....

Tuesday 4-6pm

Wednesday 4-6pm

Thursday 4-7pm

Friday 1-6pm

Saturday 10-6pm

He had to get a pair of steel toe work boots. He loves them. He wanted to take them to Martin's Cove. (But I wouldn't let him. They are brand new and he would get blisters for sure!)

He is excited for his job and to be earning money. He will make $11.47 per hour.

The hardest part will be giving up all his free/spare time. 

Leduc competition

Brandon and Cassandra competed in a shoot in Leduc May 8-10, 2015.
This was Cassandra's first shoot. She really enjoyed it. She set some new personal bests. But she didn't make it into the finals.

Brandon did well. He went first into the finals and ended up winning the competition. He won gold. Really! Real Gold. He won a small gold coin.

Thanks to Lowyn for letting them take his car.

I had Cassandra write a little about her trip to Leduc.  This was her entry.
"The ride there was pretty boring. When we finally got to Leduc, I managed to get a decent pic of the Leduc sign. That night when we got to the hotel, we got a room and went to check it out. The problem was that it wasn't a smoke free room. So while Brandon and I sat and watched TV, my dad went to see if he could get us a better room. Eventually he came back, he said he had managed to get us a better room. As soon as we stepped into the room the difference was very noticeable. It was smoke free and much bigger.  There was a slight problem with this room, 3 people and 2 beds. Luckily we managed to work this out quite quick, as Brandon said he'd be fine to sleep on the floor.
The next morning, we went and had a continental breakfast. It was delicious. Mine was cereal, a muffin and juice. I can't exactly remember what happened next , but at one point that day,we went and ate at the KFC right across the parking lot. (I think.) (Sorry Mom). Any way, fast forward to the competition, I'm pretty sure I got 2 zeros, but a ten after each one! (In the first "round"). Qualifying round, not as well, But I'm almost positive my dad owes me a shooting jacket. Well any way, pretty sure I hit three zeros, but two tens and a nine after. And, of course I didn't make it to the finals. But, fast forward some more and, after we took every thing down, we had the awards. I will admit I almost cried when I didn't win (not that I was expecting to!) But, I was bummed and managed to keep myself together. And that is all I can remember about my first competition! (yes, it  was very fun!)"      

Mothers Day

Maren, Evan and Savanna brought me breakfast in bed this morning. I haven't had that happen in a lot of years. They were super excited to use the bed tray that has been on the kitchen cupboard for months. 

It's not a great picture but I got a handful of homemade cards and Maren made a modpodge letter K. 

For breakfast I got a bowl of cereal-- Raisin Bran--because out of all that we had in the house, I told Evan the day before that it was my favorite. A piece of raisin bread. A bowl of peaches and a glass of milk. It was so thoughtful and kind of my tender hearted children.

Over the weekend Jeff, Brandon and Cassandra were away in Leduc to a shooting competition. It was hard to do Mother's Day alone but the children at home were rather well behaved which made the day easier. But we did get to church later than I wanted due to me trying to catch the shooting competitions via live web rather than getting ready for meetings.

After sacrament meeting, the women were given a chocolate bar as a Mother's Day gift. 

Jeff and the shooters arrived home late. Cassandra presented to me her card and handmade bookmark when they were home. 

Too much fun

Aaren got a summer job mowing at Nancy Keeler's house. They live on an acreage beside the feedlot and have lots of land that needs mowing. They have a sweet ride on mower he gets to use. He loves it. (Of course, because they have a ride on, he doesn't like using a push mower now.)

Watching him drive the mower reminds me of the bumper cars at Calaway Park. I love the bumper cars and so his mowing looks fun too.

But... The OCD in me is going crazy with the randomness of his mowing job. At least he's getting it done. 

I'm sitting in the van with R while M, E, S and T play outside at Keelers. Nancy said they could come out anytime and play. She isn't home so I stayed to give Aaren a ride back home. The kids are loving the outdoor fun. (Just not the friendly cats....) All the space to play is a little kids dream.

The pictures of the kids playing are terrible but it shows the vastness of the yard size. 

New Driver

Brandon came back from his road test with a smile and a paper!

HE PASSED!!

He got 55 demerits. You are allowed 75. He needed 2 attempts at parallel park. You get 3.

Brandon is now an official licensed driver.

Congratulations!!

It cost an additional $22.45 to change his license status.

Screaming

Last evening Evan came into the house screaming. He had been jumping on the trampoline with the girls. They were playing popcorn. He landed wrong on his left shoulder. He was holding his arm. I was standing at the stove making cream pie filling that had to be stirred as it was cooking. I moved it off the burner and moved Evan to a chair at the table. I tried to settle him down but he kept saying his arm was hurting. Trying to do two things at once I left him to go finish the pudding so I didn't spoil it. (I was making a lot!) Meanwhile Evan got up and walked down the hall and took off his hoodie. Over his head!! He was still making a big fuss when he came back. I redirected him back to the chair and told him to relax. I was able to get the pudding to a stage that I could leave it. The way he was acting, I was worried that his shoulder was dislocated. Brandon had been wanting to go driving to practice for his upcoming road test so we decided that he would drive to the hospital and we would get Evan checked out for a dislocated shoulder. While we were in the car I asked Evan if he could move his arm. He started moving his shoulder and his arm up and down. Brandon and I looked at each other and wondered if it was necessary to go to the hospital. Evan said it hurt so we figured to go anyway and just talk to a nurse. Evan got a hospital band and I stopped a ER nurse to see if she thought it was necessary to see the doctor. She felt his shoulder and watched his arm movements. She said the doctor was there and if we wanted to wait we could. We decided to wait. Brandon was in the car. We were waiting a short time when the ambulance brought a patient in. Another little boy was waiting his turn in front of us. Evan was moving his arm all over and so I decided that we would go and if it was hurting the next day we would bring him back. Evan got a sticker and we left.

The whole incident was very scary for Evan but when we had been home for a while, he came and said to me his arm didn't hurt anymore.

It's very possible he dislocated his shoulder and it's very possible that he put it back in when he took off his hoodie. Whatever it was and whatever happened I was grateful it wasn't worse. 

(Evan sitting in the hospital waiting room)

Road test

Brandon is taking his road test right now. I'm waiting in the insurance office for him and the examiner to come back. 

Wow.. It's nerve racking!

He is using Uncle Lowyn's car because he didn't want to take it in our long 15 passenger van or our big truck. Besides, both our vehicles have cracks in the windshield which would be a fail. 

The test before Brandon's failed. (Ran a stop sign...oops.) And two others came back to reschedule.

I hope that Brandon is able to have confidence and keeps his nerves together to pass. The test cost $75.00 whether he passes or fails. Let's hope he doesn't have to do it twice!

Cool as a cucumber waiting. 

In the car with the examiner.

Practice

Brandon was practicing his parallel parking tonight. He has a road test coming up. 

Last summer a neighbor made me two large sandwich boards and I never ended using them for their intended purpose. So tonight Brandon hauled them down beside Sherwood's house and used them as pretend vehicles. He then practiced parallel parking Uncle Lowyn's car between the two sign boards. He did great. He parked about 10 times. I also moved the van over to help him get a better simulation. 

He will be studying the driving handbook from now until the exam so he can hopefully pass. 

Good Luck Brandon!

Peeps?

Aaren was back in the kitchen today.

This time he was trying to make homemade PEEPS. Basically, homemade marshmallows covered in coloured sugar. 

I didn't give him much help. I only scraped the bowl of marshmallow fluff into the piping bag and tried to pipe the shapes when he was frustrated enough to ask me to do it. He measured combined mixed and cooked. He did most of the work. The finished product turned out ok. Certainly a fail for me in the shaping category but they set well and turned out like homemade marshmallows. When we couldn't get the fluff to take the shape of little birds, we ended up making little puffs. They were much easier.

Next time he plans to dye the sugar. (I didn't encourage him so he just used white sugar.) He found the decorating sugar that I had in the pantry too coarse. 

This is his finished pan.

If....... we make them again, I'm going to roll them in toasted coconut!