Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve is always a special night for the Hadlock family.  We all gather together and have a beautiful program, family video presentation and dinner.  The program this year turned out so great.  Mom and Kimberly had a script, costumes and singing.  The kids took it so seriously - even Hayden who was the donkey/reindeer.  We brought the electric keyboard to the tent and all sang hymns as part of the program.  It was really amazing how the true spirit of Christmas was evident even with the chaos of 6 kiddos under the age of 4.  Following the program, Joanna had put together this year's family video and we all got to watch that while the finishing touches of the dinner were being completed. 

After dinner, we exchange gifts with each other. This year Grampy and Grammy reinstuted the ever popular "gunny sacks" and we all had so much fun watching Grampy and his elves, Mckeilla and Bryson help pass out presents to see what treasures we were going to receive as well as watching what each other's reactions.    

Grammy made all the boys slipper and hats to match their new pajama pants.  Not wanting the boys to feel left out from the hats the girls had with flowers, she even made them a flower of their very own for the front.  Each of the boys were so proud of their flower hats and wore them all night long.  

The tradition of Christmas Eve is probably my most favorite tradition.  I love all getting together and enjoying each other's company and making so many memories together.  

My boys are such great sports to help clean, set-up and participate even though they are getting older.  They always help their younger cousins and set such a great example to them.  I love that we are able to get together and enjoy one another, laugh and remember the birth of our Savior. 

Merry Christmas to all of our friends and loved ones - may this Christmas season bring you all the joys that you desire.  We love you all! 

Christmas Eve - 2010

Gingerbread Houses Party

We had our annual gingerbread house making party and combined that with Lily's First Birthday Party.  There was so much candy and frosting - I don't know exactly how many pieces ended on on the houses or in the kids and adults.  The house was filled with laughter and lots of joking around - exactly how a Gingerbread House Making Party should be. 

Gingerbread Houses Party - 2010

Twas the Night Before Christmas...



Even though our boys are older, they are still excited by all the Christmas hoopla!  The shopping is done, the presents are gathering under the tree, there are cookies everywhere and freshly decorated gingerbread houses now as Christmas decor - all is right with the world.

We love Christmas and wish we could celebrate all year long! 

Mary

For a long time I have wondered what Mary must have been like.  I can only imagine that she was a remarkable woman to be chosen to be Jesus’ mother.  I have often wondered what it must have been like for her to hold this brand-new baby in her arms and feel this unconditional love all the while knowing what was in store for Him.  How difficult it must have been for her to have all the desires that a new mom has for her new baby and be conflicted with what his mission was on the Earth. 

In high school, I remember singing a song called “The Jesus Gift”.  The song starts of with the wisemen asking Mary:

Shall we gather emeralds? Shall we bring him gold?

Shall we shower diamonds, white-hard, bright-cold?

Shall we spangle jewels like stars above?

And Mary answers them saying:

Give him laughter, bring peace filled laughter. Offer him warm laughter and love.

The song goes on to talk about the gifts that cannot be bought that the Lord would need to be prepared for what was coming in his life:

Simplest of gifts, Gentlest of hearts

Kindness He’ll use as He leads

So give him these gifts, Hand Him your heart

Mary wanted all the world had to offer her baby and knew that He was going to need to be strong and blessed – that He would be compassionate, empathetic and loving.  Like most mothers, she didn’t want things of the Earth for her new baby - she wanted Him to be loved, accepted and cherished but in her heart, she must have known that was not the way His life would be.   I have a great admiration for Mary and the gift that she gave the world. 

Bryson's Birthday - 2010

Bryson's 13th Birthday Pictures

Bryson turned 13 and is officially a teenager.  To celebrate this monumental milestone, he had 2 birthday parties.  On his actual birthday, he invited one of his friends to join us as we went to Texas Roadhouse (his choice) and then on Friday, his whole family - all 25 of us (minus Jared) went to dinner at Red Robin and then went to visit Santa after.  You should have seen our big table and brood.  All the kids were along the back bench and there were so many heads, it was hard to count them all.  But we sure had a blast and appreciate everyone coming to help us celebrate.  

Happy Birthday Bryson!

Visit to Santa...

As in years past, we took all 13 grandchildren to see Santa last Friday.  Amazingly, they all look great.  We had a couple this year that did not like Santa at all - hence Lily sizing up Santa not sure about what is going on and Joanna in the picture holding Annabelle.  When we told Santa how many kids we had, he just said "13?"  
Sorry Santa - what can we say?  We have a big crew and I am sure they can all explain!

All 13 grandkids visiting Santa!

Ward Christmas Party

Power Ranch 2nd Ward Bishopric

Our ward Christmas party was last night and anyone who knows us knows that we don't love to go to these types of things. But with Brian's calling, attending all the ward functions is something that goes with the territory. And we support him - so we all went to the Christmas party last night. After the dinner, there was a talent show and our bishopric did the funnest skit. I have attached it so you can see it.  The Bishopric are the three out front and the Executive Secretary, Assistant Executive Secretary and Ward Clerk (Brian) are the arms.  Enjoy!

Bryson Turns 13...

Bryson's A Teenager!

Today is Bryson's birthday and he is turning 13!  I know it - I can't believe that 13 years have gone by and Brian and I have had the pleasure of having this gift in our life.  Bryson rounds out our family perfectly and is such an important part of our family.  He loves his big brothers and from an very early age, he has tried to be just like them.  Bryson is so funny and makes us laugh with his jokes, impressions and silly antics all the time.  Bryson has had many challenges in his life but has always fought hard to be strong and steady.  Bryson has an amazing testimony even though it is very tender and he has a hard time expressing it.  He shows such diligence in keeping the commandments and many times I am taught by this young man.
Bryson - I hope you always know how much dad and I love you and how special you are to us.  From the minute you were born, you have held both our hearts and we would make any sacrifice or give anything for you.  We hope you have a great birthday!  Love Mom and Dad

The True Meaning of Christmas

For as long as I can remember, I have loved Christmas and the feeling that the Christmas spirit brings.  I love the shopping, the hustling, the music and all the wonder and awe that children have as they look at the lights and decorated trees.  I love going to the temple to see all the lights and enjoy that peace that surrounds the temple especially this time of year.

Kneeling Santa

I remember when I was about 12 years old, my Grammy gave all of her children a kneeling Santa.  It was more than a decoration - it was a beautiful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas.  I have since tried to find that beautiful statue but to no avail - there are replicas but that original is so beautiful that everything else just doesn't compare.  About 5 years ago, keeping in the tradition of giving a special Christmas book each year, my mom gave the boys the book called "Santa and the Christ Child."  I have used this book so many times in stories, Christmas cards and talks that I have been asked to give at Christmas time.  My favorite line in the story is when Santa asks the boy "Why, why did you come to me?..." "The Child answered, 'To remind you, dear Santa, to remind you, and all the world that Christmas is my birthday...the birthday of the Lord."  I just love the message in those 2 sentences.  It helps to serve as a reminder to me the true meaning of Christmas. 

Gratitude

By definition, gratitude is an "appreciation for benefits received".  I often think about the words to the song "Because I Have Been Given Much" and very truly blessed for all the gifts I have been given.  I have been given so much.  I think about all of the blessings in my life and I am very appreciative for those blessings and benefits.  I am thankful for a my family that loves me with all of my short comings and faults.  I am grateful for the knowledge of the gospel, for the sacrifices made on my behalf by my Savior, for my testimony and for my eternal family.  I am grateful for a husband who honors his priesthood and completes me where I am deficient - especially grateful to him listening to Spirit and taking one class at MCC that I happened to be in.  I am even grateful that he pulled my hair to get my attention.  I am grateful for my handsome, strong and just plain awesome sons, Hunter, Hayden and Bryson.  I recognize that that everything in it is a true gift, a treasure to keep safe and take care of - never take for granted.  I want to try to live by the words of "I am grateful..." and demonstrate that gratitude - not just express it.  We hope you had a very happy Thanksgiving and carry the spirit of gratitude into the Christmas season. 

Thanksgiving 2010

Brian jumping for an interception

Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays.  The smell of turkey, rolls and pies cooking when you walk in is one of my favorite reminders of the holiday.  One of the most favorite traditions of Thanksgiving and the one that Brian looks forward to the most is Turkey Bowl.  All of our boys play along with tons of family and friends.  They have so much fun and for the most part all of them come out unscathed.  They will all be sore tomorrow but for today they are all back in high school.

We have so much to be thankful for this year and have much to look forward to in the upcoming year.  We hope that everyone has a safe and enjoyable holiday.  Remember to take some time out to express your gratitude for the things and the people that you are thankful for.

The Gift of Tender Mercies

Today is Thanksgiving and I have been thinking this past month of all the things that I am grateful for.  As I round out my list, I can not help but think of the gift of tender mercies.  I consider tender mercies to be those moments of clarity or whispered promptings from the Holy Ghost.  To me, tender mercies are subtle reminders that my Heavenly Father is mindful of me and knows me as well as knows what I am going through.  I can think of so many instances over the past 6 months where I have felt overwhelmed or like I can't move forward and my life is blessed with another tender mercy.  Along with Brian and our boys, those moments, those tender gifts from my Heavenly Father and probably my Heavenly Mother are what I am the most grateful for today, the day of Thanksgiving.  Enjoy your day and take a moment to express your gratitude to your Heavenly Father for all the gifts that enrich your life and that you have been blessed with.

Gratitude for Forgiveness

One of the most tender treasures that I am thankful for is the gift of repentance and forgiveness.  I am grateful that I am able to ask those that I love for forgiveness for my shortcomings.  I remember telling Hunter one time that I was really sorry (in advance) for all the mistakes that I was going to make with him as he was our oldest and we had never had a 12, 13, 14, 15, and/or 16 year old child before.  I am grateful that I am able to seek forgiveness for the things that I do wrong each and every day.  I am humbled by the gift of the atonement and for the sacrifice made on my behalf and for those that I love.  The knowledge of that gift is a comfort when I am feeling down - I remind myself that for no other reason other than the gift of repentance and forgiveness is a sure sign that my Heavenly Father love me.  Those gifts are among my most prized treasures as well. 

Thanks Goodness for Disneyland!

The boys at Grizzly River Run - 2004

Anyone who know us knows that we are Disneyland freaks!  With the exception of a few years, we have had annual passes for almost 10 years and we go at least 4 times throughout the year.  Bryson wasn't even tall enough to ride all the rides when we started going and Hayden HATED all the characters!
We love everything about it - the music, the rides, the churros but especially the way we feel when we are there.  We ask our boys all the time if they are sick of going to Disneyland but they always want to go there and answer with a resounding "no".  We are spoiled now too - we don't like to wait in line.  If we have to wait more than 15 mins for a ride, well, that is too long except for Toy Story!  We would wait all day for that ride - well, almost!  We are excited to go back especially now that the light show is up and running.  The memories that I have with our boys and Brian at Disneyland is some of my most prized treasures making Disneyland a place that I am very grateful for.

My four boys on Splash Mountain - Aug 2009

My Dissertation Is Complete!

As I am putting the finishing touches on my dissertation, I can't help breathe a big sigh of relief and gratitude that it is complete.  I have been working on it on and off over the past month and when I sat down on Friday to look at it, I had 5000 words (25 pages).  As I am putting the finishing touches on it, I have 25,539 words and over 125 pages in total.  I didn't even know I knew 25,000 words.  One more class and then the reflection class and I will have completed my second master's.  I am grateful for the opportunity that I have had to go to school and I am especially grateful to be almost done.

Chloe and Peyton

I remember when Allyson told us that she was finally having a baby - I was hoping and praying for a little girl that I would be able to spoil.  With 3 boys, I wanted to buy pretty things and help dress them up cute.  When Allyson got so sick with the pregnancy and Chloe was in real danger of having a less than ideal life, I remember praying to help bring her to this world safely and without permanent reprecautions.  I was there when Chloe cried for the first time and I remember being so excited and grateful for this little girl who was overdue by 10 days, beautiful and screaming her lungs out.  For the past 5 years, she has been a permanent fixture in our home.  She loves our boys and calls them her brothers.  She tells us "I know their my cousins but I still call them my brothers". She has sleep overs at our house almost every Friday night and we go get donuts on Saturday morning.  She always reminds Uncle Brian the exact kind that she wants and oh, she wants them in a seperate bag.  We have only been getting them that way for the past 3 years but she still reminds us everytime.  We took Chloe with us to Disneyland in April and Brian and I have commented many times how much fun we had with her.  She brought a new element to our trip that we had never had with 3 boys.  We did the fairy princess makeover, Cinderella's castle, lunch with Ariel and friends and autographs with all the princesses.  Chloe has a great love of life and getting to watch that with her has been a true gift that I treasure. 

When Allyson told us after 5 years that they were having another baby - again, I prayed for another little girl because Allyson has SOOOO many clothes that they needed to get used so more.  Again, when Allyson got sick with her pregnancy, I prayed that Dr. Beck would take better care of her than her previous doctor and that Peyton would not have to suffer.  Allyson bore much of the brunt of this pregnancy and Peyton seemed to cope better.  Again, I was there when Peyton came into the world after many, MANY hours of labor and she too came in telling her own version of the story and just as beautiful as Chloe.  In fact, in many regards, they looked like the same baby.  We love her so much and I am very grateful for the opportunity to spend as much time with her as I am able to.  I am grateful that we are able to live so close to them and that we have an incredible bond with them.  Both these girls hold a very special place in my heart and again, I count them as 2 of my most precious treasures.

Grateful For My Job

As I have been reflecting lately, another thing that I am very grateful for is my job.  I remember when Bryson started the 1st grade and realizing that I was now home alone that I thought about joining the work force.  I didn't have any employment skills to offer as such other than being an at-home mom.  Luckily for me, when I applied at the University of Phoenix, my manager was able to see the things that I had done at home and translate those skills to skills needed in the work place.  I worked for University of Phoenix from 2003 until October of 2006.  In September of 2006, on our way to Disneyland, the office administration at Boeing in Mesa, called and set up an interview for when I returned home.  The interview could not have gone worse in my opinion but my now manager says that everything he needed to know about me was answered within 5 minutes of me getting there.  I started at Boeing in October of 2006 and have been there since.  I love working for Boeing primarily because for the last 4 years I was able to work with Brian everyday - we carpooled, ate together and we were able to spend so much time together that if I had not taken the job, I would have missed out on.  Additionally, for the past 4 months, my working has been the sole income for our family.  I am grateful for the opportunities that Heavenly Father has placed before me and I recognize that His Hand is in all things regardless if we understand them or not.

Sisters and Sisters-in-Law

Being the oldest of 5 children, 3 brothers and only 1 sister, I couldn't wait for my brothers to get married and bring more sisters into the family. I never anticipated that my husband would be the oldest of 6 children, 5 boys and 1 girl and that I would get an additional 6 sisters.  I am grateful for my 10 sisters and for all that they have taught me.  I have learned so much from them - the biggest thing is that there may be more than 1 right way to do something.  I have learned that each one of us have unique talents and personalities that make us all a force to be reckoned with.  I love my baby sister very much and even though she didn't get a choice in being sisters, I am grateful that we are close.  My sister-in-laws had a choice and I am sure have wondered what had they married into.  I am so grateful that they have all chosen to be close and have relationships together.  I love you all very much and hold you each as a very precious treasure.

Hallalujah for Diet Coke!

I know there are those that will think that I should not pay homage to Diet Coke but for me, I am grateful.  There have been many mornings and nights where I have just needed one and I am never let down.  Many pictures have had to be cropped or edited to remove a straw, Sonic cup or other remnant of this vice.

We have had a soda fridge at our house for the past 10 years now and we try to stock everyone's favorites including Dr. Pepper, Fresca, Rootbeer, Grape, Diet Rite (that's Hayden's first choice... I know gold star for no caffeine and no sugar) but there is probably 2 rows of Diet Coke.  It is one of those guilty pleasures that I am just plain grateful for. 

Deeply Grateful for Brian's New Job

As most of you know, Brian was laid off in July from Boeing and had not worked for the past 4 months.  Last week, after searching diligently, praying and fasting, Brian was offered a job and we could not be more excited.  The offer provides Brian an opportunity to design and develop differently than he was at Boeing which is an exciting new challenge.  He took the past 4 months and really focused on making himself more marketable and catching up with the latest trends in software design.  This opportunity is a door for him to design in those new trends and be challenged which he is really excited about.  We are grateful for the opportunity and for hundreds and thousands of prayers that we said and that were said on our behalf.  We have an even stronger testimony on the power of prayer and fasting.  We also have learned that our revelation can come in various forms.  We have had sudden enlightenment, positive or negative feelings regarding the proposed courses of action, and even inspired answers or responses when asked questions.  We know that Heavenly Father has heard us and has answered our prayers.  We are grateful for friends and family who too have been a great source of strength and encouragement.  Brian starts on Monday, the 22nd and we couldn't be more happy and grateful!

Gratitude for the Gospel and My Testimony

When we were trick or treating with the kids, as we were walking up to a house in our neighborhood, Chloe began to sing "I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  I know who I am. I know God' plan and I'll follow Him in faith."  I have been thinking about her singing that song.  She sang it with such conviction and so proudly.

As I have been pondering those things that I am grateful for, I too am so grateful that I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I am grateful that I know who I am and where I came from.  I am grateful that I have heavenly parents that love me and know me.  I am grateful that I too know God's plan - I am here to receive a body, be tried and tested and return to His presence one day.  I am grateful for the knowledge that I have of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  I am grateful for the opportunity that I have been given to be born under the covenant to parents that taught me the gospel and fostered my own testimony.  I am grateful for my own testimony and the confirmations that I have received when I have asked my Heavenly Father of the truthfulness of the gospel.  I am grateful to a 15-year old boy who knelt in a grove of trees seeking guidance and direction.  I am grateful for the priesthood and the opportunity that I have to have the priesthood so prevalent in my home.  I am grateful for modern day prophets that we are able to receive counsel from and gives us direction.  I am grateful for temples here on the earth and that I am sealed to the love of my life and our boys for time and eternity - that when we leave this mortal existence, we will still be a family.  I do know that I belong to the true church and that I am a daughter of a Heavenly Father.  The knowledge of the restored gospel and my testimony are also among my most prized treasures.    

I Am Grateful for My Mom...

I am so thankful for a mom who is involved and wants to be a part of my life.  From a very early age, my mom was volunteering for all kinds of extra activities so that she could be a part of what I was doing.  Countless concerts, pageants, talent shows, classes and various other activities and the one thing you could be sure of was that my mom was right there supporting me and helping me.  She made countless sacrifices for me and on my behalf.
My mom is so talented.  She can play the piano and organ like a dream.  One of our favorite things to do when we were little was to listen to her play "Flight of the Bumble Bee".  I loved to watch her hands play that fast and she had it memorized too.  She can play virtually any piece of music you put in front of her.  She has accompanied me on so many occasions there are too many to count. She can sew like a dream.  She made my wedding dress and hand sewed over 1500 pearls to the bottom.  I remember seeing it in the beginning stages and not knowing what she was doing but I trusted her that she would pull it off.  And I was more than surprised in seeing that beautiful dress on the most important day of my life.  I also remember her trying to teach me to sew on more than one occasion and not wanting to in the least.  Now I am disappointed that I didn't learn that trade from her.

The greatest attribute about my mom is that she is almost always positive.  Where ever she is, that is the best place to be - no matter where it is.  She always tries to encourage us to not be discouraged and not give into the disappointments of the world.  Very rarely do you see her sad or discouraged.
Her grand kids all love her.  They love how fun and silly she can be as well as how loving and caring as well.  I love watching her as she interacts with my older boys as well as how she is with the babies.  I love her very much and I admire her greatly.  She is another one of my most prized treasures.

I Am Grateful For My Dad...

Every little girl should grow up with a dad like mine.  I saw a vinyl lettering sign the other day that was for a little girl's room that said "Prince Charming did come - it was Daddy!"  Growing up, that phrase is how I felt about my dad.  Too me, there was no one stronger, more handsome or more invincible than him.  I knew that when I was with him, he would protect me and keep me safe. 
I inherited many traits from my dad.  I inherited his drive to want things perfect - especially at the holidays.  I remember one year mom had hurt her knee at Christmas time.  It was up to dad and I to get all of the holiday shopping done and dinner.  We remembered the turkey but none of the fixings.  This Christmas was when I learned that you can get almost anything at Circle K - and they don't close.  We were able to get all of the rest of the ingredients for Christmas dinner.  My dad is very selfless.  He is always looking out for everyone else and making sure that they are doing okay or safe. 

Another time, I remember my dad and Hunter, who was only 6 at the time, were riding a horse.  Hunter had never really ridden a horse & was excited to go with Grampy.  The horse did a side-step on the loose rock where they were riding and for some reason, the saddle slid to the side.  My dad used his own body causing him some siginificant injuries to protect Hunter from falling on the ground and getting hurt.  I know that when our boys are with him they are safe.  Another more recent example is when our boys were at scout camp.  Due to the altitude, Bryson had significant challenges and by the 4th day, Bryson needed to come home.  I knew that we couldn't get to him fast enough so at 11:00pm at night, I called my dad and asked him to meet one of the YM leaders who was bringing Bryson out of the mountain and then start driving towards us and we would meet him in Globe.  How grateful I was that he was ready and most willing to make sacrifices of his own to help me and my family. 

My dad has a strong testimony of the gospel. At Peyton's blessing, he bore his testimony so that his children and grandchildren would know of his love of the gospel.  I can not express to you the Spirit that was felt not only by me but by my boys as well.  They know with assurity that their Grampy knows that the church is true and loves the gospel with all of his might.  What a gift he has given to his children and grandchildren! 

I hope that he knows how much I love him and how grateful I am that he is my "daddy".  I am grateful for the love that he has for my husband and for my boys and appreciate all that he does on behalf of my family.  I love you dad! 

Allyson and Kyle

My gratitude list continues... Allyson and Kyle are two people that I am extremely gratefuly for.  We have been close with them for many years.  We have lived next door or up and around the corner for for 4 of the past 6 years. We moved next door to them the first time in February of 2005.  Brian was doing a lot of travel then and I relied so heavily on Kyle and Allyson.  I remember having a water leak and Kyle fixing it for me at midnight.  I also remember him helping me with the boys - especially Hunter who was having a rather difficult time with his dad being gone.  One of my fondest memories of that time is the day that Allyson was in labor with Chloe and she called me.  She was having signs of labor that I had never had so I reassured her that I was sure everything was fine and told her to get ready.  Kyle was golfing so Brian and I prepared to take her to the hospital.  While I was getting our stuff, I called the hospital to make sure that the symptoms she was having were okay so that when I saw her I wouldn't freak her out.  Allyson is super laid back - nothing ever rattles her.  She is the opposite of me...everything rattles me.  Many times she has had to help me see things from a different prospective.  I remember right after Chloe was born, we were living next door to them and Brian thought it was time to move but I didn't want too.  Allyson tried to assure me that nothing would change but I told them that I wasn't going and I was really stubborn about it.  So she came to my house and helped packing up.  I realized that it didn't matter where we lived, we would remain close.  We love traveling with them and we love that they love Disneyland. 


Chloe is very sad that she is still too short
to ride California Screamin' - the upside down
roller coaster. 

 We love their girls, Chloe and Peyton.  And we love that they love us!  Many times, Chloe will have sleep overs and she even got to go to Disneyland with us while her mom was sick in the hospital with Peyton.  I am so grateful and feel so blessed that they trust us to look after their girls and I hope they know that we love them to pieces.  I am so grateful that they live near us again.  There are only 7 houses that seperate us now and we get to see them everyday.  I am so appreciate of all the support they have given us and advice/venting outlet that they have provided me with over the past 6 months.  I love them all and feel very blessed to have them in my life.

My Gratitude for Bryson Albertus

Words can not express how grateful I am for this young man.  From th time that I knew that we were going to have another baby, we did everything that we could to protect him.  We had to make really difficult choices during my pregnancy with him and I had many issues with that pregnancy but I would do it all again knowing how richly he has blessed my life.  While I was pregnant with him, we thought he was a girl so we only had girl names picked out.  When we found out a week before I delivered that he was a boy, we had to scramble to find a name.  We searched the baby name books and none of them felt right.  Grama May suggested we name him Bryson - representing Brian's son and I loved it from the moment I heard it.  The name fit him and his personality perfectly.

Bryson has had his share of struggles.  His time in utero was less than ideal and when he was 4 months old, he was diagnosed with a rare pulmonary disorder causing him to just stop breathing with no warning signs or reasoning to why he would.  When Bryson was 2 1/2, he had an episode that was so severe that he broke his sternum breathing and the broken sternum puntured a lung.  I remember being asleep and just waking up straight in bed, running to his crib to find everything soak and wet.  Being in a sleep fog, I thought he had chewed the end the nipple of his bottle off but I realized that he was soaking wet from sweating so much trying to get air.  I have never felt terror in my body than I did at that moment.  All that we had been through and the sacrifices that had been made on his behalf were suddenly going to be for nothing.  He was evacuated by air to Phoenix Children's Hospital.  His pulmolnologist came in and laid out a very grim picture for Brian and I.  The scenarios that she laid out all had choices, consequences and outcomes attached and we had to chose the one that we felt was in his best interest.  We chose to not go with a permanent trach in his throat because he would outgrow the disorder between 5 and 6 years old and we didn't want him to have to deal with the trach the rest of his life.  We chose to sustain his life and give him the best possible outcome with no residual side effect by opting to give him breathing treatments every 2 - 3 hours depending on how episodic he was.  I remember in that moment realizing that Brian and I were his only advocates - no one loved him or were as invested in him as much as we were.  I learned as much as I could about his disorder and even went to get my respiratory therapist license so that I could speak intelligently on his behalf as well as be certified to take care of him at home.  But looking at him now, even though he has some asthmatic limitations, no one would ever know what he had to overcome.  

Bryson is amazing to me.  Bryson, like Hunter, is also a clone of Brian.  He is so smart and so funny.  He is a perfectionist at all he does which shows in the way he does school and scouts. He is very tender hearted and definetly the "baby" of the family.  With 2 older brothers, he has always been treated older than he actually is.  But his older brothers do a tremendous job in watching over him and he relys on them. Bryson has a very tender testimony and has a simple testimony of the gospel.  I love to listen to him pray or bear his testimony because I am humbled by how truly pure they are.  I think that he is amazing and I thank Heavenly Father everyday for the additional treasure in my life, our youngest son, Bryson!

Family Pictures - 2010

FINALLY...the wait is over.  Our family pictures have been uploaded to Kim Skinner's blog.  I know that we all have been anxiously awaiting them.  To get a sneak peek, click on her blog link listed in my favorite links or the picture of the grandkids and it should take you right to our family pictures.  Kim said that she sent the CDs yesterday but mail didn't move yesterday so we should probably have them tomorrow.  Remember, I can fix screaming babies and flying hair - even unwanted shirt rolls.  But I think they turned out great.  I love the one of dad kissing mom and then them laughing together.  Plus I love that all the new babies (Annabelle, Lily, Cody and Peyton) are included.  Enjoy!

I Am Grateful for Hayden David

Hayden David is our 2nd son and is truly a gift.  Hayden made his entrance into this world approximately 8 weeks early.  I remember when Hayden was born we were so excited to finally have him here.  Once he was delivered, he never cried and the nurses moved him to the incubator to work on him.  Suddenly, everyone was asking questions about how far along I was and had I had any complications.  Brian was standing by the incubator out of the way but close enough to see.  I was watching him and I remember watching the color just drain out of his face and tear welling up in his eyes.  They ran him out of the room and he stopped breathing on their way to the NICU.  Once in the NICU, they placed him on a respirator to help him breath and to assess what was going on.  They performed the heel-prick test to do a blood test and realized that he was only 28 1/2 weeks instead of 36 weeks.  His lungs had not developed and his heart was not functioning properly. Hayden was given a beautiful blessing by our then bishop, Mark Bradshaw, promising him and us full health and complete recovery.  Not only did he recover faster than was anticipated, he had no lasting effects of his traumatic entrance into this world and we are so grateful for him.
Hayden brings a tender, loving dynamic to our home.  Hunter looks like a Mini-Me of Brian but Hayden is a Mini-Me of Brian's personality.  Hayden is very calm, collected and thoughtful.  His older brother dominated the spotlight for many, many years and Hayden has always been content to sit back and go with the flow.  Hayden rarely gets upset or mad.  He has to be really pushed to topple over the edge.  He is super competitive and wants to be as good if not better than his older brother.  For example, on the day that Hunter learned to ride a bike, that also was the day that Hayden learned to ride a bike. Hayden does have the Hadlock temper and you with children that have it (Mom, Allyson, Kimberly...) know what I am talking about. He is very slow to boil but once he digs his heels in, good luck steering him another direction.  Hayden has to think that the decision to change was his idea so again, I learned very early that there was a delicate balance.  Hayden is the peacemaker of our family.  He hates contention and internalizes everything.  He wants to have a plan and a back-up plan before he makes a decision - another trait he got from his dad. 
Hayden is named after my dad, David Hadlock.  Hayden reminds me very much of my dad.  My dad is very soft spoken and very tender.  The Spirit resides very close to his heart.  Hayden is very much the same way.  From a super early age, Hayden has had a testimony of the Gospel.  He amazes me and those around him at the depth of his testimony and convictions.  He is aware of the promptings and is always very quick to let us know when the Spirit has prompted him to do something.  We recently had an very humbling experience in where he let Brian know what the Spirit had prompted him to say.  He has a strong testimony of fasting, prayer and the priesthood and like with Hunter, I am taught almost daily by his convictions of the Gospel. 
Hayden is one of my most precious treasures that I am grateful for and I love him very much. 

I Am Grateful For Hunter Brian...

Hunter Brian is our oldest son and I am so grateful for him.  I have loved him from the moment I found out I was pregnant with him.  I had some quirky complications with my pregnancy with him but when he was born, I thought he was so beautiful.  He had no marrings on his face or any birth trauma.  And he just looked and looked around the room looking at me, Brian, Grampy, Grammy, Aunt Allyson and Uncle Jared.  He is so incredibly smart and never has been able to sit still.  Hunter has to be doing something constantly. He gets bored really easy so I have always tried to make sure he has some sort of outlet.  Hunter is his own person and is so comfortable in his own skin.  He has the philosophy of "This is me... take it or leave it" and people flock to him.  Hunter has his own way of doing things and always asks us to hear him out before we make a decision.  Brian is much better at that than I am but I am trying.  He always uses a diplomatic and rational way of thinking which always has impressed me.  He is so funny and has a great sense of humor as well as timing.  He gets that from his dad. 

Hunter has a deep love for his brothers.  People often comment how special they think our boys' bond is and that started with Hunter watching over Hayden and now Bryson as well.  There are countless stories about Hunter protecting, helping and looking out for his brothers.  Their bond is very special. Hunter has a deep love for the Savior and a strong testimony of the gospel.  Very often, I will see him in his room reading his scriptures or saying his prayers and I am humbled to be his mom.  He loves his YM leaders and their willingness to magnify their callings.  He is truly an example of those around him especially to his brothers and his cousins.  I feel incredibly blessed for the opportunity that I have to be his mom and thank Heavenly Father everyday for him.  I love you Hunter (Huntey)!

 

My Most Precious Treasure

When I think about what I am most grateful for, to me it is easy.  I am most grateful for my husband, Brian.  I met Brian when I was 18 years old in a college choir class.  Brian's friend convinced him to take one class at Mesa Community College and I sat right in front of him.  From the moment we met, I knew that Brian was different from the other boys I had dated.  Brian has always protected me and still does even now.  He has always treated me with respect teaching our boys the way that men should treat the women in their live.  My boys will always open the car door for me if I am on their side of the car or hold it open for people coming into a building and they learned that from their dad.  Plus I think he is rather hot myself - I really do love looking at him especially now because he has to wear a suit so often. Brian has made many sacrifices for us and I adore him.  Brian has a great sense of humor and is just fun to be around.  He is always first to make a bad situation better by making a joke or pointing out something that is funny.  Brian honors his priesthood and has taught our boys to honor theirs.   love the way he looks in a suit.  Brian is without a doubt my most precious treasure.  I have loved him for more than half of my life and I am grateful every day to Heavenly Father for helping him to enroll in that choir class.

A Time To Be Grateful

I love Thanksgiving time.  The air gets crisper, leaves start falling and football is really in the air.  I also love that it is a time to be reflective and grateful for the many blessings in my life.  That being said, I am totally stealing this idea for several blogs that I have seen including my sister, Allyson, because I think it is such a perfect opportunity to list and highlight some of the things I am grateful for.  I will highlight something I am grateful for daily.

Since today is the 8th of November, the following are 8 quick things that I am grateful for:

1. Curly Hair - Even though I complain about it all the time, I am so grateful for curly hair especially on the mornings that I am running late.
2. Weight Loss - I am so grateful that I have only gained 4 lbs since losing 52 lbs and I have held it off for almost 6 months.
3. Running/Exercise - I am grateful that I am able to run now without passing out when I am done. 
4. Health - I am grateful for my health and even though there are times that I have a headache or a cold, for the most part I am very healthy.
5. Cooler Weather - After 6 months of what seems to be never-ending heat, it is finally cooling off.  The high today was 88 degrees - still a little high for this time of year but so much better than  108.
6. Disneyland - I know that it is corny but I am so grateful for Disneyland.  My family and I love going to Disneyland and we frequent it often.  We have so many fun memories and even though the boys are bigger, they still ask us when the next time we are going to Disneyland.
7. Seminary - Growing up, I never recognized the huge impact that seminary had on me but I am so grateful for the inspired seminary program.  Our boys go every day to a gospel driven class, learn more about the gospel and are able to seek refuge from a somewhat ugly world.
8. Young Men Leaders - Our boys have had so many wonderful Young Men leaders.  These leaders have helped shaped and mold our boys helping them transcend into young men they are becoming.

YM Annual Turkey Shoot

Our ward has an annual Turkey Shoot and because we merged into a new ward and adopted alot of Power Ranch 2nd Ward's traditions, this was the first year the boys got to go on the Turkey Shoot.  When I first heard the term "Turkey Shoot", I must admit that I thought that they were going to be bringing home turkeys and I was terrified at the prospect of having 4 turkeys are our house waiting for mom to clean them.  But I was informed that no, it was not actually "turkey shoot" but a well controlled, extremely organzied activity in which the boys got to practice shooting various types of guns- from heavy artillery guns to the lightest, most compact gun. 

Hunter had been looking forward to this activity for so long.  He has loved being the 1st Assistant in Priest Quorum and getting to plan activities like this one.  The guns were very loud and he has pretty sensitive ears so he said that next year he is bringing his large earmuffs to cancel out more of the sound.   

Hayden took his turn and loved shooting anything that exploded.  They put some type of explosive in a large pumpkin and shot at it.  Hayden said that when it finally blew up that there was pumpkin mess everywhere.  It was AWESOME!! (his exact words...)

I love this picture of Bryson because he is closing one eye and looks so at ease in shooting.  Bryson has a tendency not to try new things or shy away from something that he may not be the best at so to see him participating and actually seem to be enjoying it made my day. 

Even Brian took a turn with shooting and considering the last time he shot, him shooting this time was really a miracle.  But he did say he kept his eye/eyebrow completely clear of the scope.  All in all, they had a blast.  I was nervous at first with them all going and having that may guns but once I heard all the controls in place to help keep order and all of the preparation that went into the activity, I was very relieved.  I am not even that upset that I have to buy my own turkeys this year. 

Halloween Party 2010

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How much fun is Halloween? Everyone gets to dress up and live out their fantasy characters. This year our family went with a Roaring '20's theme. The boys all dressed up like mobsters dressed all the way even with Tommy Guns and I dressed like a flapper. It was really fun to watch our boys come into character.  All of us went to the ward's trunk or treat - arriving about an hour late so since we were the only ones with candy left, we became very popular.  After the trunk or treat, everyone came back to our house for dinner and visiting.  I think that this is one of my favorite traditions and I love getting everyone together to see all the kids' costumes and making memories together.

Happy Halloween! 

Carvin' Pumpkins - Halloween 2010

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One of our favorite Halloween traditions is carving pumpkins. The boys still love to get a knife in their hand, get messy with the pumpkin "guts", carve up their pumpkin and then play with fire instead of lighting the candles. What more could a boy ask for? This year Hunter and Hayden free-handed their designs and Bryson chose a pattern on one that has a tongue so that was really fun to try and accomplish. Grammy and Grampy brought us another HUGE pumpkin from their garden and Brian was in charge of that one. He did an awesome job of carving out a Frankenstein and it looks so cool- especially lit. The end results are below – Enjoy!

Peyton Kylee's Blessing

Peyton's blessing was October 10, 2010 and what a beautiful day it was. Kyle and Allyson had almost all of their family there to help them celebrate this milestone in Peyton's life. Peyton wore the same dress as Chloe but Grammy had to modify the sleeves because Peyton is such a peanut compared to her big sister. Peyton's dad, Kyle, Grampy, most of her uncles and "Uncle Rusty" along with Bishop Schnepf and Bro. Thomas participated in the circle. Kyle's blessing was very beautiful and I don't think there was a dry eye in our family rows. Good thing Aunt Tamara brought lots of Kleenex. Grampy bore his testimony during testimony meeting and again, the water works began. Grampy was followed by Allyson. Allyson's testimony got everyone crying again and at that point I am thinking "I should have worn waterproof mascara" but all kidding aside, this day was long coming and many prayers, fasts and priesthood blessings got Mommy Allyson and Baby Peyton here healthy and happy. All of us are so grateful for this beautiful addition to Kyle, Allyson and Chloe's family. It is hard to remember her not being here with us. She is already so loved and we are very grateful for tender mercies from our Heavenly Father.