Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day to the two hardest working men we know. Thank you for your examples of work and love. We hope you have a great day!

Love, Paige, Brock, Sidney, Braden, Charmayne and Preston.

Joy

Tonight we had family home evening. A night early because I travel this week. We had a lesson about Joy. "We all go through different life experiences. Some are filled with joy, and others with sorrow and uncertainty. . . I testify to you that the gospel of Jesus Christ has the divine power to lift you to great heights from what appears at times to be an unbearable burden or weakness. . . The Gospel of Jesus Christ is good news, glad tidings, and much more." - Dieter F. Uchtdorf



We each listed three things that make us happy, here were the results:

Paige:

1. Our Home

2. Mom & Dad

3. Friends



Brock:

1. Playing Baseball

2. Watching Star Wars

3. Friends



Sidney:

1. Jesus

2. Mom, Dad, Paige, Brock & Braden

3. Singing Songs

4. Playing Outside



Charmayne:

1. Family

2. Singing Songs

3. Friends



Preston:

1. Family

2. Working Hard

3. Exercise



The kids laughed histerically when I said exercise makes me happy. They thought I had lost my mind. I thought about making something else up here but decided not to. Brock's watching Star Wars was a little perplexing especially since he has never watched it at home - must be at a friends house? When I think of the things that bring me the most joy it always involves family and friends and the time we spend together. Charmayne and I are happy that the kids recognize being home and being together are the things that bring them the most joy.



The kids have also found joy in my Grandpa Jones' pick-up. They have spent every minute outside this weekend inside it. I've thought several times about trading my Camry in for a truck but I have a feeling the novelty would wear off. So for now we will continue to borrow Grandpa's when we need it.

Happy Birthday Brock-O!

June 4th Brock turned 6. Six! How can that be? As I went through the pictures to make this slideshow I was reminded by what a great kid Brock is and how fast time moves. Traveling at the speed of life, I can't keep up. I miss his hair. Most of you know Brock so saying anything about him is a little redundant. But for those of you who don't know Brock that well, know this - no boy has a better, more loyal friend. Sam says Brock is his best friend, Hyrum says Brock is his best friend, Soyer says Brock is his best friend. Every boy loves Brock. His sisters adore him and crave his attention. I don't think a mother could have a better son or a father a better friend. Happy Birthday Bud.

Love,

Dad

Playhouse. . . Phase 1

While at Home Depot one day a few months ago Paige picked up a flier with shed and playhouse kits being advertised. Pretty much everyday since I have been reminded of the need for a playhouse. I love imagination and I have really enjoyed building so we broke ground on a 10x10 spot next to the shed in our backyard. We set our posts and poured concrete footings.
We decided to build a raised floor instead of pouring concrete. Brock and Sidney, as you will see, have been with me every step of the way. There have been times when Brock hasn't wanted to work, like hauling buckets full of rocks to the garbage can or friends wanting to play. But I explained I wasn't going to build this thing alone and Brock has been true to his word.
Brock and Sidney adding the finishing touches to the floor joyce's.



Brock and I flashing the guns after setting the walls. Brock had to hold the walls while I plumbed and squared them. Even though they are only 64" tall, the walls were very heavy.

We couldn't get Sidney to Flex.

Trying to beat Wednesday's rain we worked until sundown Tuesday night. We finished framing the roof but didn't have the light to sheet it. After we finished the framing Brock said "this is going to be awesome".

The kits at Home Depot cost about $1,200.00. Ours will cost about half that and it has been much more fun. Hapiness in life is found in working hard with those we love. Taking the kids' dreams and making them reality is keeping us young and happy!