July 2026

July 1st was the day we move cows.  Hatch's came out to help us.  Jane was very excited to 'see cows' again.  We only had one of our 4wheelers working.  Dave took off on that as the rest of us were spread out in the field on foot.  I had Rhoda and Cora had Jane. At one point there was a calf trying to escape another way.  I ran through the field holding her as we got the the cut off point before the calf and got it headed in the right direction.  With so many of us there getting them in the gate was not to bad this time.

We then played some pickleball in our shop and had Sloppy Joes for lunch.  

The next night we met up with them again and Blake and Natalia for Shakespeare in the Park.  (Leah and Braydon were camping with friends.)  A good time as always.

Dave and I went back to town the next night again for some shopping and to have a date night.  We drove by the temple site and saw Blake's house.

Saturday was out town's 115th celebration.  We went to the parade, show and shine, and helped with some pioneer games at the church.

The next weekend Dave had a big service project he wanted to do.  It ended up being a 2 full day thing and again Cora and Ammon came out to help.  It was much to hot, but we manage.  I was very thankful Ammon had come as he can cut and measure better than I and it went faster with him there. But we got it done.

I got to help with making 35 dozen cookies for the temple site workers.  A different stake take a week at at time until the temple is done.  They have a devotional for all that want to join every Tuesday. I was pleased when the RS pres text and asked me to help.  I had heard we were doing this last year, but didn't get the opportunity to help.  I was told my part was 5 dozen and they needed to be wrapped in bags and labeled.  I made mine as pretty as I could.

One night Blake and Natalia came out to get some camping gear.  Leah had borrowed it for her camping trip, so Blake picked up most of it from her and then came and got the rest.  On the way back to his place they passed a broken down truck and rv about 12 mins from us.  He said he really just felt like he needed to stop.  He called us and came back for parts, then we ended up going out with a few that they forgot.  Dave and I were watching The Chosen and he said, "We can watch a movie about Christ or we can go be Christlike" Off we went. They were a nice couple taking their son down to national rodeo finals in Nebraska.  The next night B&N got a very late start to their trip and ended up at the campsite at 4am.  They said everything that could go wrong did.  Broke windows, broken bikes, late start, but they had a blast. 

I worked a Friday and when I got home I found this on the counter.  It definitely looked like a chore/reward system Dave had set up for himself.  I thought it was hilarious. 

The youth in our ward were doing a hike and Dave asked if I wanted to go.  They were hiking Lille, which we did last year.  The girls had also planned on hiking that day in a different spot, but decided to come with us instead. 

Dave found a road that we could take that cut off about 3 km from the hike and most of the inclines.  It was again a very hot day. It has been a very hot July. Cora and Ammon brought carriers for the girls.  Jane hiked most of the way up.  She was very excited and kept sayin how 'we going hiking'.  Dave gave the youth some things to look for on the way and they took off.  I have no idea if they even stopped to look at things, but we meander on the way and were way behind. It was fun and we all survived another hike with out seeing any bears.  Always my goal. 

The last week of July the kids all came to hang out and it was so much fun.  More on that later.....

June 2026

June went by fast.  We had a ward BBQ for adults and played some games.  I was sooo not feeling sociable that day.  I left as soon as I politely could, even though it was a nice evening. 

Dave's work had family tickets to the local baseball game and everyone was able to make it.  I may have mentions multiple times, but I dearly love time with my kids. 

The next day we did some yard work and cleaning and then a dump run.  It was fast Sunday, we went early and I took some popcorn to eat on the way there.   The next day in church someone was asking about what we did and I said we had gone to the dump but I took popcorn so it was a date.  They looked at me really strange then asked why I took popcorn to the dump.  I just laughed and explained my philosophy that if food is involved, and activity or outing can be considered a date.  

I sold some of my crocheted animals this months and was able to buy more yarn.  I have even had a few requests.  Which is both fun and nerve racking, what if that is the time I mess up.  

Dave went biking with the youth on the Kananaski trail before it opened.  He always enjoys that.  In the morning we realized that he might need another adult in the car if he was driving youth.  I quickly packed my self a lunch, had packed his the night before, grabbed a book and my crochet tote, showered and got to the church.  Sadly for the kids some were not able to make it, but that also meant that I didn't need to go. 

Youth baptisms were also scheduled this month.  Just before Father's Day.  I told Dave I was going to hitch a ride with him and go see my dad while they were at the temple.  One by one the youth dropped out until they weren't going anymore.  I still wanted to see my dad, so I drove down and had a wonderful visit with my parents. 

A while back Cora had said that she thought the perfect mother's day gift would be to just get together and they kids do all the food and I would enjoy everyone being there.  She decided to wait till after the wedding and we did a combined mother's day/father's day.  They organized and brought food.  We had Cafe Rio style tacos that were amazing.  All the kids helped, we ate and watched Project Hail Mary.  It was a perfect day. The night before the little girls helped me make an object lesson for my primary class. 

Dave and I attended Calum's grad this month and we also went to seminary grad.  I thought we were not going anymore since Dave was no longer over seminary in the high council.  The night before I was informed he would be going as bishop.  Duh me! So off I went to seminary grad. 

I spoke in church this month.  And we got to hang out with Leah one night when she came to pick up all the camping gear to borrow.  She is always fun to chat with. 

And that is it.  Half way through the year!

Blake and Natalia!

Congratulations to Blake and Natalia!  It was a wonderful wedding. I made up for the lack of pictures in last post with this one.  We had the family dinner in our shop Friday night.  I had wanted to elevate it and make our shop to be simple, elegant, and beautiful.  It came out exactly as I had in my head.  The kids all showed up around 10:30-11 and we were working hard.  Dave and I had been up at 5ish and to bed at midnight all week.  I scrubbed the house clean and we started setting up tables and chairs.  Blake and Natalia had been out the week before to help hang lights and finish up the lemonade cart.  

I had a list of things that needed to be done last minute.  As we got closer to the time we were running out fast.  At 5:15 I glanced at the clock not knowing if we were going to be done in time.  But I knew with out a doubt that Cannon, Nicole, my dad, Natalie and Joe would come early to help, even though I had not asked them to, and I could just start handing them chores.  My family is so awesome and I have great friends. Between them, my kids, and Dave we got it all done.  My house was a shamaz and I was embarrassed to those that needed to use the bathroom that it looked that way.  But food was out and shop was decorated.  We prayed and prayed for the weather and it was about perfect.  It was not muddy or to hot, and it was not blowing a hurricane. 

We ate tacos and had a dessert chocolate bar.  Blake and Natalia then introduced everyone, Dave and I did stories of Blake and a welcome to Natalia, Todd and Tanya did stories of Natalia and welcome to Blake.  Blake then did his toast to his bride.  Leah had wanted to do a welcome to the family gift for Natalia, her and Cora found some cute things that represented us and gave them to her with an explanation. Last we played the wedding shoe game. After everyone left we got to cleaning.  Cannon and Nicole, Joe and Natalie stayed to help get everything down and shop swept out, and some dishes done.  Then I sent everyone home with sincere thank you, even my kids and I finished up.  I was so so sore.   My feet did not want to feet anymore. But I could not leave my kitchen unswept or dirty dishes out. I slept well that night. 

The next morning Blake got ready by tagging our last calf.  He said it was the perfect way to prepare. 

The ceremony was simple and short.

I was a disappointed that they did not get a picture with all the bridesmaids and bride or the groomsmen and groom.  Seems odd.  And I made all the ties.  I would have liked to have had a picture with all of them and the dads standing together. 

The rain started as we were driving away from the temple.  It was perfect for pictures.  Dave and I went to Leah and Braydon's during the down time.  I thought we would have a few hours, but ended up with only about 45 mins before we headed to Raymond to help get ready for the reception. 

It was also beautiful.  Jane was my little buddy all night and it was so fun. Dave and I were very social as was Blake, we did quite well. 

Dave and I were in charge of retrieving the hidden truck for the send off.

And that was that.  Well after more hours of clean up. :)  Man, weddings are a lot of work. Blake and Natalia are a great couple.  They will help, support, and love each other in all that they do.  I am excited for this next chapter for them both. 

May 2026

Another fun month has come and gone.  Too fast.  We had a grand month and I took one picture.  Having to much fun to stop and take pictures I guess. 

* We had stake conference.  Elder Senechal was at our conference.  I really enjoyed his talks.  He was very personable and real.  Told lots of stories of his family.  It also worked out great since we had been given lots of extra invites to Blake's wedding just before, so we were able to hand deliver lots to our friends in the stake. 

*Bridal shower in Raymond.  Food was great and it was a lovely evening.

*Dave had been in charge of the gift for Mother's Day in the ward.  We stressed about it for a few day, we have multiple allergies in our ward and were not sure how to navigate them all.  Finally decided to get flowers.  I picked them up Wednesday and by Friday they were dying.  We were a bit panicked.  I ran into Costco and luckily they had some lovely carnations in stock.  Just the amount I needed.  I had prayed all the way there.  Prayers were definitely answered. We divided up the flowers that were dying and took out the live one, divided between the 3 girls and myself and sent them home with them Saturday night.

*Bridal Shower in Champion.  It was so nice of Heather to offer to give a shower for Natalia.  It also was a lovely time.  

*Since everyone was around for the shower, Puzey's decided to stay that evening and have a Mother's Day meal at Myrna's.  We had a few hours in between and it was a beautiful day.  They boys and Jane had been working on cars and cleaning shop while we were at the shower.  When we got home we had a bite to eat and were talking out in the sunshine when I remembered 4-square volleyball.  Blake had not had a chance to play with us yet.  We played for hours.  Had to set an alarm to come in and get food ready for the dinner.  Such a fun day.  I love my kids being together. 

*It is a story, but I ended up at Natalia's bachelorette party.  Cora and Leah threw it for her as Ammon and Braydon gave a bachelor party for Blake.  They had wings and played games.  Us girls had great appetizers and made bracelets for the wedding.  It actually turned out to be a good time.

*I went to Bozeman with my mom and sisters.  We had been planning it for months.  Such a great time.  I love girls trips with my sisters and mom.  We had planned to just sit around and read for a few days, but I am not sure one of us opened a book. :) We talked and I crocheted and they did a little shopping.  We tried a great restaurant.  More were on our list but we ran out of time.  Guess we will have to go back!  It was beautiful and relaxing. 

*Many trips to deliver Myrna for treatment.

*Dave had the week off before the wedding and we worked early and late to get everything ready for the family dinner at our shop. 

*Ward Conference.  Good time, great messages.

*Finished lemonade cart and delivered, final haircuts, chair pick up, food shop, more shop cleaning and mowing

*WEDDING!!

* It was kind of fun at the wedding.  Ammon and Cora walked in the church and said wow it was weird it was the same lay out as the church they just finished building.  I was looking for the bathrooms and they took me right to them.  In a strange spot I might add.  Later we blew a breaker and no one knew were to go fix it.  Ammon walked right to the mechanical room and fixed it.  Even Jane grabbed my finger and said Jane's ramp and took me to this wheel chair ramp that apparently she played on a lot as her parents were in the church.  It was so funny. 

April 2026

Highlights from April.  It was an exciting month. 

General Conference was wonderful as always.  The kids all came out to watch and we celebrated Leah's birthday. We played a lot of games and I did some crocheting during conference.  Such good messages.  Saturday morning was my favorite. Dave and I were on for snow removal at the church mid month.  I was quite sure it was crazy to schedule that far out.  Turns out they were not, because shovel we did.  Thick, WET, heavy snow.  We were so sore.  Checking cows was fun too.  Only snowed for 2 days and then it melted off pretty fast. 

Leah's washer had been not working and their landlord ordered a new one.  While they were waiting for it to arrive, she would come out and do laundry at our house.  We had a few fun hang out days. 

We had a funeral for a cousin of Dave's and made a stop at Ikea while we were in town.  The next week we had another funeral to attend as well.  Bill Toone was a great guy.  The girls decided to all come hang out and stay over for church the next day after the funeral.  We checked cows and Jane helped us feed.  Now when she comes she says 'see cows?' and we get on the 4-wheeler and take her over. 

That night we had dinner with the Puzey siblings and Myrna.  Went to Silver Slate.  Always a delicious meal there. We got home and the boys were out checking cows for us, tagged 2, and the girls were making dinner together.  Make your heart happy moment.

Sunday all the kids had stayed over.  Back at the end of March the stake president had called and asked to met with Dave and I.  We drove to the church and he interviewed us both separately.  Me first then Dave.  After he called me back in and let me know that Dave was being called as bishop of our ward.  We talked for a while about when and some thing that were to happen and we got back in the car.  I turned to Dave and asked if he was surprised at all.  He said no. Next followed 3 very special weeks as we talked and discussed together as no one else knew.  We had heard that it was time for a change in our ward.  Both of us had felt impressed that it would be Dave, but didn't say a word to each other.  We never even joked about it.  Stake President had told Dave that I was his councilor until his were called.  We had so many discussions on walk and drive after dropping Myrna for treatment.  Long hours and early mornings.  It felt surreal and like we were in this little protected bubble.  We had some very special experiences and neat things happen.  Our kids had no idea.  They truly just happened to decided to come to church that week, but Dave was glad they were there.  

One day I went in with Dave to do some early morning shopping.  Gas is getting very expensive and what ever we can to save some. 

I attended a fun Favorite Thing party.  Got some good loot.

Blake and Natalie finished the school semester with excellent grades.  The wedding planning continues.  May is going to be full on. Before he started work and after school was done, Blake came out and spent a few days working on the orange truck.  My job was to hold and tap the wire to the battery.  I did a marvelous job of course. :)   He did discover the issue and now the truck is running fantastic! 

March 2026

Dear March

While I did appreciate the mild weather that was provided, I very much could have done with out the wind.  Please no more wind.  I may go insane.

Thank you

Me

Another great month has come and gone. 

 *Got together for a much over due afternoon with my friend Natalie. 

* Dave got to go to the Pro Bull Riding with a work event.  Sadly that event was not for family or even spouses.  Would have been awesome to see. 

*We meet for some wedding planning with Natalia's family.  Blake had told me the girls were coming.  I said that is great I haven't met her sisters yet.  Turned out it was my girls.  I was totally surprised and it was so fun.  We got some details figured out and had an amazing meal. 

*Blake did a fireside on his mission at The Villa. 

*One weekend Leah and Braydon, Cora and Ammon and kids came to hang out.  We played games and just hung out.

*We got Blake's wedding suit and got material for the ties I will be making for the wedding.  We have been slowly ordering things for the family dinner.  It is almost all ready. 

*We had a great time celebrating my mom's birthday.  All my kids were able to make it.  Delicious dinner organized by Natalie, Kita and Steve came up and surprised her.  They had made a banner and signs and cake. 

*Attended a fireside put on by the missionaries building the Lethbridge Temple.  It was really neat to hear all their miracle stories. 

*I got to hang out with the little girls while Cora got her hair cut. 

*Dave was involved in a Stake Youth Activity.  They did temple baptisms, had and activity, did some family history work and our part was to feed them and have a little social workshop.  Dave asked Leah to come help teach the workshop.  It was great fun.  A good idea to have Leah come join us. 

*Stopped at Hatch's quick after the activity to say Happy Birthday to the little 2 yr old.  I had made a coat I was excited to give her. 

*Little Rhoda was blessed.  Cora and Ammon did a great job hosting everyone.  Ammon gave a lovely blessing.  At church I was sitting between my girls, with their families on each side.  Dave behind and Blake in front and I just thought, I am not sure life can get better than this.  Surrounded by family.

*I had been in contact with the family of an Elder we met in Salone.  He was new out.  They were on their way through and wanted to stop and see us.  Dave got off early and Blake was able to come as well.  Which was good since they wanted to chat with him about the country and his experience.  It was a lot of fun and I was so happy they had stopped by. 

*And as always trip to deliver Myrna for treatment.

I finally made a decision this week.  I have always wondered when to stop blogging.  My life is not that interesting or have that much going on as when the kids were home, but I love to journal and loved having the pictures in my journal.  I have decided this is the year. December I will make my last post and publish my last book then get a beautiful journal and start handwriting instead.  It's been over 15 year and I'm ready and excited to write in a book again.

February 2026

February was an unseasonable warm month.  Mostly.  We went to some high school basketball games. 

Separated cows AgaIn!! It was getting annoying.  We were taking the calves to auction.  Dave and I took the second load.  There was enough room to load the last three that we didn't think we going to fit when one jumped a new part of the fence and escaped once more. We had a successful sale. And the one happy frustrating calf is just living it's best life in the field.  I for one am ignoring it's presence.  But my beautiful calm tempered girl is gone. 

I reorganized and clean the freezer in preparation for picking up our beef.  Leah's washer broke, so she came out a couple times to do laundry until their new one came in.  Dave had a Stake Youth Activity at the beginning of the month.  We enjoyed our usual Super Bowl Sunday with sports movie and appetizers. On the 9th of Febuary my shampoo and conditioner ran out at the same time.  A feit indeed. Valentine's Day we had red meal and watched a romcom. 

I then made 16 loaves of French Bread for the Stake YM's camp.  It was a hit I was told. Dave had a nice time on the camp.  They did some hiking and played some games. 

 That weekend Blake went on a mini vacation with Natalia's family.  As they were there the discussion between them about getting married were amped up and he called us on the Monday night to say they were engaged!  Very exciting.  We think she is great and they are lovely together. 

While Dave was at the YM's camp it was our week for cows.  I broke the bull water every morning before work.  The temperature plummeted that week and some days I had to do it morning and evening. When Dave got back he discovered the lid had been left off of the cistern and everything inside was frozen.  No water for the cows.  We spent the next few night working on it and then Dave would buy some parts, working on it, finding parts, working on it etc.  Finally after many nights we got it all back up and going. 

Dave, Blake and Natalia went skiing.  Blake was avoiding his house during reading week and so they would take turns between our house and Bolokoski's.  He burned a lot of gas that week. 

Over a year ago, Kita told us about a Grandma Shower a friend had for her.  I loved the idea and have been waiting for some one in my ward to become a first time grandma so I could throw one for them. I finally got to the end of the month.  We just had a few fun snack.  Lots of fun chats, and brought her books to build up her grandma library.  

I then gave her a little grandma starter kit, with wipes, a stuffed animal, gripe water and so on. It was a fun night. 

Hatch's moved to SoAb.  They stayed with us one night on the way down.  On the Saturday Dave dropped me at Leah's to go to her RS activity.  We did brunch and yoga.  He then went on to Cora and Ammon's to help unpack.  Blake met us at Leah's and we jumped in with her and Braydon to head out also.  It was fun.  Everyone was there but Natalia, she had a few papers and exams due.  We helped unpack and enjoyed being together. She can see Chief from her yard!

I have been making more animals.  It is a lot of fun. I will have to start selling them I suppose, if I want to keep going as I am spending way to much on yarn. But how cute!