The Philips Family

David is five!!!! That means he gets to ride the bus to school next year. He is very excited to do that.

One year I looked out and saw that we did indeed have the greenest grass. It was early in the season, and didn't last long, but for a small time it was, in fact the greenest grass. Could we possibly look at our own lives and think the same thing? I have always been quite optimistic, positive , and happy. I have been blessed far beyond my ability to fully appreciate. I have been asking myself many questions as I remember the grass from a few years ago. What things in my life would change if I lived by my sister? (I have spent too much time contemplating it.) Would we be able to make enough money to live in such an area? Would some of my relationships change? Would I not live close enough to her to be everything I have hoped for? Would I leave the comfort of my home, friends, church family, and beautiful community to see that it wasn't what I thought it would be? Perhaps for now, I need to realize how blessed I am. Ed has a good job with good benefits. The kids are al...

If you are expecting something sarcastic, funny, or about my precious babies, you might want to skip this post. It is on a slightly more serious note. I hope I don't get in trouble for writing this. For years, I have wanted to live in a warmer climate. I was diagnosed with Fibromayalgia three years ago, and I just feel better when it is warm. It would be nice to feel better more often so when people ask me how I feel, I don't have to fake a smile and say that I am feeling fine, when really all I want to do is find some strong meds and lay down. Ed seems slightly open to the idea of living somewhere warm. I have to admit that the thought of being able to raise my babies alongside my sister is very appealing. I miss her so much. So, where does the internal conflict come into play? I love this Valley. I love the people here. I love the school my kids go to. I love the teachers and staff at that school. I love the small town feel. I love watching the seasons change. I ...

When our children lie to us or say something meam, they are told to go stand on the vinegar wall. It doesn't hurt them, but they HATE it!! Mallory has never had to have it, she is just too little, but here she is dishing it out to her naughty babies!

Our precious, Mallory came to our family after much praying by big sister, Bree for a little sister. When came home from the hospital, she weighed 4 lbs 12 oz. She was our tiny miracle. Mallory loves jewels of all sorts. She loves twirly dresses, makeup, and pretty much anything girly. She has been a joy to our family. Our family world has all but revolved around her since she joined our family two years ago. Her favorite songs are:Rudolph the RedNose Reindeer, and The Wheels on the Bus. I have caught her singing Silent Night. What a sweet sound. She is so much fun, and has a smile that would melt the heart of the Grinch. We love her so much!!!!

Fished what I wanted!!!! Donny got a littled help blowing out the candles. The boys had a ton of fun. Seriously though, 10 nine-year-old boys, in one house? NOT a genius idea. I think they all had a good time. And by the sheer grace of God, my house is still in one piece.

I read the story of Lazarus to my kids the other night. I guess I haven't read it since David (my brother) died. I could barely get through it. I thought of how Jesus wept with Lazarus' sisters, Mary and Martha before he brought him back from the dead. I pictured him cradling me as I learned of my younger brother's untimely passing. How he must have wept with me also. I am so thankful for a loving Heavenly Father who sent His son to redeem the dead. To mourn with those who mourn. I am thankful to my Savior who made it possible to get through such a black period of time. And how wonderful a blessing my baby, David was. He came at a time when our family needed fresh hope. I feel as though I need to close this in the name of my Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.