Life as a Missionary Kid

This is the Year...

2012-01-04T18:01:00.000-07:00

2012 is a big year for me. This is the year I graduate. This is the year I make my decisions about college. This is the year I may get to have some once-in-a-lifetime experiences. I'm really excited but also a little overwhelmed. I'd appreciate your prayers as I enter one of the most important years of my life!

Sorry I haven't updated my blog in awhile. I've been really busy but I'll be sure to post more this year when the big events come my way.

Oh, and Happy New Year!

A Wild & Wonderful Deputation

2011-11-07T19:00:00.000-07:00

It's fall now! That of course means that summer is over. It also means I haven't posted something on my blog for a long time. So hopefully my sharing my summer experiences will make up for it.

Well, our family headed out on deputation on July 18th. I drove a good part of the first part of the trip and several hours later on during the trip. I still have more fun riding in the back with Tasha than driving. :D

The first state we visited was Indiana. There we got to spend 2 days with my best friend Luke and his family. The Friday we were there, all of our families went to an awesome place called Conner's Prairie. It's and interactive park that lets you live history and have a lot of hands-on fun. Check out their website to find out more about it.

Here's some pictures of our visit:

The Forsee and Peachey families

Watering the gardens

Me showing off my tomahawk skills (or lack thereof)

The barn

After leaving Indiana to go to West Virginia, we stopped at Jungle Jim's International Market in Ohio. Whew! Grocery shopping there would be ten times better than going to get them at Walmart!

Dad and Ashley shopping

In Point Pleasant, West Virginia, my old home town, we had a lot of good times with family and our old friends. It was great to re-kindle old friendships.

After leaving WV, we went to Pennsylvania. There we had a Peachey family reunion with many of our Amish relatives. We ate lots of good food and played Dutch Blitz and UNO!

Another fun thing that happened in PA was that, for the first time, both sets of my grandparents were together in the same place.

After a couple of weeks in Pennsylvania, we left for Tennessee to see some more family. There we visited my Aunt Rhonda and Uncle Daniel and their family. We also had a going-away-to-school party for my cousin Jessica and an early birthday party.

Jessica and her cake

Well, on August 21 after church, we packed up and headed home. We made good time and made it to Arkansas around 7:00 in the morning. But then the van started to act up. We pulled over into an Advance Auto Parts store. To make a long story short, we tried for hours to find a tool to fix the van, didn't work, found out the transmission was broken, limped our way to Oklahoma and stayed at a Love's truck stop.

We have family in OK so my uncle came and picked us up and hauled the van to his house. We realized that we couldn't fix the transmission and replacing it would be very expensive. Plus our van was worth less than a new transmission. So we needed a new vehicle to get us home.

We prayed and asked around to find something else. God led us to buy a 2003 Chrysler van from someone who really helped us with the price. We also got the money to buy the van in one payment. That in itself was a huge blessing! So on Thursday, we packed up our new van and headed home: finally! We made it home without any problems. We were never so happy to be home!

So our summer was full of good times, sadness, uncertainty, and full of blessings! God really answered our prayers about our vehicle, but not quite the way we expected. But I came through knowing that God works everything out for the best, no matter what happens to us.

Pet Overload!

2011-07-13T20:10:00.000-06:00

This June, our family has adopted several new members. Not humans, but animals! One Saturday, we went to the Gallup Flea Market. While there, my dad found a really good deal on some young horses. He took advantage of the discount and bought two of them!

Ashley's horse, Susan

Natasha's horse, Prince

Since they're still pretty young, we're not able to ride them...yet. My dad starting to train both of the horses, so we may be able to ride Prince in the fall.

Later that month, Tasha and Ashley found two stray calico kittens wondering around the mission grounds. Our parents agreed to let us keep them. We had recently got rid of all of our chickens, so we put the kittens in the now cleaned up chicken pen. They have been a joy and a source of laughter.

Cali sitting on my lap

Cassie on the bottom, Cali at the top

Cali having a ball chasing, well, a ball!

Natasha's Middle School Graduation

2011-06-08T17:38:00.000-06:00

Well, my little sis is growing up! She's done with middle school and is now in high school! Man, time flies too quickly. It's hard for me to imagine that I'll be out of high school next year!

Anyway, she had a great graduation on May 29th. Actually, she graduated with 3 other students from our school: Chaise, Danitsa, and José. My mom and dad were part of the ceremony and all I did was take pictures and videos. Whew! I can't believe how many photos I took.

I'm sure you're wanting to see the pics so here are a few I took:

Tasha ready to go

Everyone ready?

Bro. Bill leads us in singing "Onward Christian Soldiers"

Bro. Don says a few words

Tasha gets her diploma

Tassles ready?

The Cake!

Congrats Grads!

If you want to see more photos, check out my Facebook profile.

"Eating" Crawfish

2011-04-18T19:20:00.000-06:00

Lots of people think missionaries eat several strange foods on the mission field. Well, I ate (and played with) some different food, at least for me. Last week, my family and I ate at a Chinese restaurant in Albuquerque, NM. In the buffet, I found crayfish, still in their original state. I thought I'd try it just for the experience. I got 2 of them and took it to our table. My sisters were grossed out and I annoyed them a little bit, as you can see in the photos below.

Down the hatch

Trying to escape!

An almost-live finger puppet!

Thanking a Veteran

2011-04-11T17:10:00.000-06:00

On March 31, my family and I stopped at McDonalds before going to a church service. While waiting while my dad ordered our food, I saw an elderly couple come to the door. Doing what my parents have taught me, I went over and opened the door for them. It wasn't until later that I noticed the man's hat said WWII - Korean War Veteran.

Once I was done with my food, I decided that I would go over and thank him for fighting for our freedom. I was a little nervous. I usually don't just walk up to people I don't know and talk. But I went over and said (now I don't know if this is word for word), "Sir, I want to thank you for serving our country." He smiled and thanked me for what I did. My family was nearby and came over and started talking. We found out that they were Christians too and their son actually pastored a church not far from us. Then the veteran said to me to "always follow God and don't go after anything else." That meant a whole lot to me, coming from one of America's heroes.

So, to all those reading this, if you see one of our soldiers, thank them for thier sacrifice. God uses them to keep America safe and help other countries be free.

Thank Our Troops!

A Grand Time at the Grand Canyon

2011-02-03T17:44:00.000-07:00

Happy New Year everyone!

Just last week, me and my family headed to Phoenix, Arizona to pick up my Uncle Tim and cousin Joesph. Since we were closer to the Grand Canyon then, we decided to show them it's beauties.

Scenery

The Watch Tower

More scenery

Me about to take the plunge! :D

Uncle Tim enjoying the sights

It's actually been over 4 years since I've been to see the Canyon. But as soon as I saw it, my jaw dropped open. It's so amazing! God loves art and the Grand Canyon proves it!

Lights, Camera, Balloons!

2010-12-06T19:58:00.000-07:00

Saturday night my family and I headed to the Rio West Mall here in Gallup to see an awesome sight: the lighting of the hot air balloons! Hot air balloons are a big thing here in New Mexico.

Anyway, we got there and I immediately started taking pics and videos of it. A few of them can be seen below:

Farewell Tour for Jessica

2010-11-24T18:39:00.000-07:00

We had a great time with our cousin Jessica while she was here. But the time came when she had to go back home.
Before she went to the airport, we took her and my Uncle Chris (he had flown out to see us and take Jess to the airport) to Window Rock, AZ, the capital of the Navajo Nation. Here's some pics that we took:

The Window Rock

Two happy cousins

From left to right: Tasha, Jessica, Uncle Chris,Ashley, and me in front
of a statue of a Navajo Code Talker

Jess and Tasha eating frybread (a Navajo food)

It was a lot of fun when she was here. Hope she comes out again soon.

Lad Plays Soccer

2010-10-18T18:59:00.000-06:00

On Saturaday, Tasha and Jessica were playing soccer in our back yard. We had let the dogs out and Lad wanted to get into the game.
Here's some pics and a video of it:

Guess Who's Here!

2010-09-22T16:44:00.000-06:00

Jessica in the New Mexico landscape

Near the end of our deputation, our my mom's sister's daughter Jessica joined us on our way back home. She's going to stay with us for a couple months and we've been having a blast since she's been here and so has she. She's from Tennessee and hasn't been this far out west before.

She's also going to school with us, which is great for us and her. She's been homeschooled nearly all her life so it's fun for her going back to a regular school setting.

Tasha and Jessie riding bikes

Good to have you here, Jessie!

My Favorite Things About Deputation

2010-09-08T16:06:00.005-06:00

Well, I'm finally back home in good ol' New Mexico! Actually,we got back on August 26. It's sooo good to be back!

Anyway, I didn't update my blog during the summer like I should've. So, I thought it would be neat if I posted about my fav things from deputation this year. So that's what I'm going to do.

My favorite thing this summer was meeting the Forsee family. I had met their son Luke on the Internet and found out that his dad knew my mom. So we scheduled a service at their church. This picture shows Luke,his brother Ben,me and Tasha playing Taboo. We really got into it :D!

It was great seeing Luke face to face for the first time. Can't wait to see him again!

After we left Forsees, we went to the Creation Museum for the second time.
It was even better than before! I loved every minute in there. It makes you think of how complicated our world is and that only a loving God could create such a masterpiece.

If you'd like to find out more about the museum, visit their website.

One of my favorite things I like to do is visit my family in Tennessee. This year we hiked up to Rainbow Falls. It was great fun.

Back: Me,Tasha,Aunt Rhonda
Front: Ashley,Joanna

When we were in Pennsylvania, my dad's brother and his kids took us to Yellow Creek (which is actually a river) and drove motor boats around the water. I have never been on a motorboat. I actually got to drive it!

There were so many things that happened to me this summer but I better stop or this post will be really long.

That's all for now!

Pickin' Corn with Grandpa

2010-08-09T06:48:00.008-06:00

Right now my family & I are in Ephrata, PA with my dad's parents. I've been having a wonderful time with my grandparents!

One of the coolest things we did was pick corn with Grandpa Peachey. One day Grandpa said we needed to get the corn picked since they were ready to come off the stalk.
So, he got a trailer and a bucket to put the ears of corn in and we got started.

Grandpa,Tasha,Ashley, me, and even Sadie out in the small rows of corn.

Me taking the ears off

Tasha & Grandpa

Well, that's all for now. If you want to see more pics from our trip, go see my Facebook photos. Bye!

Motorcycle Mania

2010-07-28T11:12:00.005-06:00

This is me and my Uncle Chris. He rode over to where we were staying and gave me a ride on his bike. This was only the second time I've ridden a motorcycle. It was fun but somewhat unnerving.

Well, after speaking and singing at a church tonight, we'll be leaving TN and heading to the Penns State.
Gotta go!

Austin

Countdown 2 Departure

2010-07-14T18:02:00.003-06:00

Tomorrow night, my family and I will be packing up and heading to the eastern United States for deputation services, visit family and friends,ect. I'm so excited!! I'll try to post some things here while traveling. I'll also be posting updates on Facebook.

Hasta luego!

More Camping Adventures: Part 1

2010-07-06T12:33:00.000-06:00

My family and I have returned from a camping trip in McGaffey. It's around the place we stayed last year. And I think it was more fun than last time. Particularly because it didn't rain as much. Ok,now for some pics.

Natasha & my dad setting up the tent

Mom unpacking the van

Mom and Sadie resting in the hammock

Mom & Dad pitching horseshoes

Ashley climbing a tree

Me helping cook breakfast

That's all for now. More to come soon!

Phunny Pet Photos 7

2010-06-11T16:38:00.006-06:00

It's been awhile since I posted some of these but I got in the mood for it yesterday.
These are pics of our wonderful but mischievous dog Ebony and our adoring cat Shadow.
Hope it brings a smile to your face!

Our Three Dogs

2010-06-09T14:35:00.002-06:00

I'm Done with Driver's Education!

2010-05-14T14:12:00.000-06:00

Monday was a very special day for me. That day I did my last session of Driver's ed.

I had to do a test on one of the last chapters of the DE book and do my final test. I was really worried about what I'd get on the last test, but God came through and I did better than I thought I would!

Here's me with my certificate of completion

When we (my dad and I) started back home, my dad let me drive for about a mile (It was on the reservation). What an experience!

Now I'm working on getting my permit.

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T12:39:00.003-06:00

As you all well know, today is Mother's day. I for one am grateful to have such an awesome mom and dad. God has really blessed me with a Christian mother to help me through difficult times. So, I just want to say, Thanks Mom for all your love!

Make sure to make your mom feel loved today and all year.

Sunrise Service

2010-04-10T13:52:00.008-06:00

On Easter Sunday, at 6:30 a.m., me and my family went on top of the hill behind the mission (the ones with the crosses on it) to have a sunrise service.

We had a small fire up there to keep us warm. It can get pretty cold here in New Mexico.

Some other people from our church joined us. Bro. Don read the Easter story,we sang some songs,and testified.

We had a great time in the Lord. I'm so thankful for Jesus' sacrifice!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T12:37:00.003-06:00

Hey everyone! I hope you all have a blessed Easter as we celebrate Jesus' sacrifice for us on the cross. We had a great morning service and a good sunrise service (I'll try to upload some pics of it soon).
All right, I'd better go now. See ya!

Phunny Pet Photos 6

2010-03-24T13:37:00.004-06:00

I'm back with more Phunny Pet Photos! It's been a month since I've posted some new ones.
The first one is Sadie and the next one is of our late cat Butterscotch.

Sadie Plays Soccer

2010-03-18T17:54:00.001-06:00

Driver's Ed!

2010-02-27T14:30:00.000-07:00

Do you know something? I did Driver's Ed for the first time yesterday! I thought that day would never come. My dad says that he feels old now that I'm learning to drive. It's not the most easy or fun thing in the world to do, but it'll be worth it.

Sickness

2010-02-20T18:03:00.003-07:00

Well, for about a week, Ashley has been struggling with a cold. Yesterday, I came down with something. So, yesterday and today I've been pretty miserable. So, Ashley and I would appreciate your prayers.

Valentine's Day Party 2010

2010-02-18T16:24:00.011-07:00

Happy belated Valentine's Day everyone!

Well, on Monday the school had a Valentine's Day party for the students here. That day we were planing to go to a museum, but it didn't work out. So,we got a $10 shopping spree at Wal*Mart. Then we went to Playground of Dreams and played there for over an hour. After that, we picked up some pizzas from Papa John's and headed back to school.
Then the party began.

Some of the decor

The pizzas

The desserts

My valentines

Passing out valentines

All my loot

Turning My Hair White

2010-02-06T15:53:00.003-07:00

You know, if you looked at the pictures on my Christmas Comes to Lone Star Gulch post, you'll notice that my hair is white. No,I haven't aged that much, but I had to go through a somewhat chocking experience to get my hair to look that way.

My dad used corn starch and hair spray for the rehearsal and corn starch,baby powder, and hair spray on opening night.

Here's the finished product

It was kinda annoying with all that stuff in my hair. I had to be careful not to shake my head to much though, LOL!

Cool Icicle Pics!

2010-01-29T13:19:00.004-07:00

Ok, so maybe this may not be the most exciting post I've made,but I think you'll like this pictures.

Yesterday at school,I noticed some weird and cool looking icicles hanging on the school.So,I shot a couple of photos of them.

Phunny Pet Photos 5

2010-01-20T15:46:00.004-07:00

Hey everybody! Here's some more Phunny Pet Photos. These pics were taken on Christmas Day 2009.
The first picture is of Shadow and the second one is of Sadie. Hope you get some big chuckles!

Christmas Comes to Lone Star Gulch

2010-01-08T18:34:00.005-07:00

Want to know how our church play went? Well, have I got a blog post for you!

The play's about a western storekeeper who has no intention of keeping Christmas.But a unexpected surprise makes him think twice.

To give you a front row seat,I recorded the entire play and made it into a podcast.

Download to your computer

Stream it here

Now here's a couple of pics of the play:

The General Store

The townspeople sing their first song

The townspeople sing to Mr. Johnson

Mr.Johnson with the baby

The Storekeeper and little Josh kneeling at the manger

Make sure to post a comment and tell me what you think!

My Top 10 Favorite Things about 2009

2010-01-04T18:15:00.016-07:00

Well,well,WELL! 2010 is here! Time sure flies fast.Well (oops,I said it again), I thought it'd be nice to look back on some of my fav moments that I had last year.

10
A Trip to the Wolf Ranch

One of the best things I like to see on field trips is God's amazing creation.And the Wolf Ranch was a great place to do that.

9
Natasha's Outdoor Concert

I've never been so proud of my sister up until her first public playing in the orchestra (not counting recitals).

8
School Field Day

This is one of the things I look foreword to every year. I always have so much fun.

7
Hiking in the Smokies

This was the most beautiful sights I've seen this year.

6
Banana Seat Bike

A very interesting experience,riding that bike,but fun!

5
Fourth of July Dinner

I love any dinner that my mom makes when she decorates.And I love anything patriotic.

4
The First Egg

Even though we couldn't eat the first egg,it was the start of a great thing,MORE EGGS!

3
Picking Up Rocks with the Dogs

It may not sound very fun,but I had a fun time doing it because I was with my family and my dog.

2
Camping Adventures Day 1 and 2

I've never really been camping persay,so it was a neat time.Even though it rained a lot.

1
I Have The Journey Never Taken!

Yup,my favorite thing about 2009 was my getting Vol.6 of Jonathan Park.I had a spectacular time listening to it.

Well,that's about it.I hope you guys had a great 2009 and I hope you have an even better 2010.

Christmas Greetings

2009-12-25T15:37:00.002-07:00

Merry Christmas everyone!I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season.
Also,I have some pics of my Christmas I'll be posting soon.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Fun in the Snow and Updates on the Christmas Play

2009-12-23T16:10:00.006-07:00

Ahh,snow!That's what we've got!Today,we got about 3 inches of snow.

Ok,first off,here's a couple of pics that my mom took in early December of me and my sisters playing in the snow with our dogs.

Ashley getting ready to shove off

Me and Natasha going sledding

In other news, I just got finished putting on "makeup" that I'm going to be wearing
tonight for the dress rehearsal for our Christmas play. The school kids,my family,and I will be performing it on the 27th. What's the name of the play? Christmas Comes to Lone Star Gulch. I'll try to take some pictures of it and maybe record the play for ya'll.

Another Picture of Shadow

2009-12-21T16:08:00.001-07:00

Phunny Pet Photos 4

2009-12-14T17:00:00.004-07:00

Get ready for more laughs!Here's some more Phunny Pet Photos.The first one is one of Boots,Bro.Don and Sis.Nona's cat.The second pic is Ebony.Have fun!

Busy,Busy,Busy!

2009-12-09T16:44:00.002-07:00

It's Christmas time!My favorite time of the year.Also,it's probably the busiest.
Tomorrow evening Natasha and I are performing in our Christmas music recital.On the 20th,we have our church Christmas play.Plus,I have a lot of tests in school to do.
Whew!Well,I just thought I'd write a little something.

Bye!

Thanksgiving Thoughts and Ramblings

2009-11-26T13:05:00.003-07:00

Hoo boy!Talk about stuffing yourself!Know where I ate today? Golden Corral.
Actually, this is the first time (that I can remember) that I've eaten out on Thanksgiving Day.

Anyway...
I thought I'd post some of the things I'm thankful for.

Thank you God for my salvation.

Thank you God for my loving pets.

Thank you God for the best parents anyone could have.

Thank you God for my sisters,even though their annoying at times.

Thank you God for our freedoms in America that we too often take for granted.

Thank you God for radio shows like Odyssey and Jonathan Park that give me entertainment and great lessons at the same time.

Thank you God for all of my family.They are awesome!

You know, if God wasn't real, why would we have Thanksgiving?
Right now, why don't you stop and thank God for some things He's done for you.

Now,if you'd excuse me,I'm going to go groan over a stomach ache.
P.S. I don't have one but it sounded like a funny post ending.

Phunny Pet Photos 3

2009-11-24T15:31:00.004-07:00

It's time for some more Phunny Pet Photos!
The first one is Sadie with her slipper and the second one is one of our chickens.

Laugh on!

Our New Kitty

2009-11-09T17:51:00.006-07:00

We just had our End of the Quarter Awards last Tuesday,when Tasha and her friend Brandi found a stray little kitten on the mission.He was so scrawny,My dad told Ashley and Tasha that we could keep it in the barn in Butterscotch's old box.
My dad told us if the cat was still there in the morning,we could keep him.And he stayed!
So,our new cat is named Shadow, 'cause he follows us around a lot.

Okay,here's some pics I took of him:

Hiking in the Rez

2009-10-24T17:31:00.014-06:00

Last Friday,Danitsa and José came to spend the night after school.We gathered our lunch,backpacks,etc. and drove to the Navajo Reservation.
We all got out and got our stuff out then we started hiking into a small canyon.

There were many cracks,holes,and small caves to explore which was a lot of fun!

After awhile,we sat down to have lunch.

We hiked for about 2-3 hours and then headed back to the van.There we shot my dad's BB pistol at some cans for a little while.When we were done,we went back to the mission.Man,I was tired but happy!

Phunny Pet Photos 2

2009-10-16T15:24:00.007-06:00

Here it is!Another instalment of Phunny Pet Photos!Hope you get plenty of chuckles from these pics!
The first one is of Bob,are now-gone horse (He got collick) and my collie,Lad.

Enjoy!

Jonathan Park Goes to the Galapagos

2009-10-14T16:27:00.007-06:00

Tired of hearing that the Galapagos islands are a great show of evolution?Jonathan Park can help.
Vision Forum has just released an audio Creation Guide of Jonathan Park, Jonathan Park Goes to the Galapagos.

"Take an exciting investigative journey with Jonathan and Dr. Kendall Park as they go to “ground zero” of evolutionism — the Galapagos Islands."

"Meet the amazing salt-sneezing marine iguana, the dive-bombing Blue-footed booby, and giant tortoises that live to be more than 150 years old. Engage with the flightless cormorant, a bird that has lost its ability to fly and developed the ability to fish under water. Join Jonathan and his father as they trek into volcanic craters, scuba-dive among sharks, and examine many of the great mysteries of the Galápagos, including this perplexing question: Why do the animals appear to have no fear of man? Learn the truth as the Parks analyze the Galápagos creatures and show how Darwin’s conclusions were wrong."

You can now order it from Vision Forum.Get a copy and learn more about God's Creation.

The BIG Egg

2009-10-10T14:31:00.008-06:00

On Thursday, all of the school kids,including myself,were playing Kick the Cone when my mom came up to me and showed me a ginormous egg one of our chickens had laid.It was 3 inches long.

Here's how it looked compared to a regular egg

Here it is in a carton

I thought it would have three yolks in it,but it only had two.

I also got to eat it on a sandwich.

P.S. I can take no responsibility for your keyboard getting wet from you drooling over the thought of how good this egg looks!

A Great Sunday

2009-10-05T16:31:00.001-06:00

We had a wonderful church service this Sunday morning. Bro. Don, Sis. Nona, my mom and dad sang the song “There is a River” for a special. During it, Bro. Don gave the invitation to come to the altar. Throughout the rest of the song, about 8 people came to the front and prayed. When the song was done, believers gathered around the ones praying. The prayer for the ones wanting to meet God went on for a long time.
The Holy Spirit really moved in that service. I’m so glad for the new members of God’s family.

If you want to be free from all your sins, just ask Jesus to forgive you. Trust me, you’ll never be sorry!

“And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Acts 2:21

Another Tarantula

2009-09-29T18:10:00.004-06:00

Awhile back (and I mean a long while) I posted about a tarantula I saw in our backyard.Well,not too long ago,we found another one.
My mom got some great pics of it.

Well,hope you all have a good week and I'll try to post soon.See ya!

Phunny Pet Photos

2009-09-16T18:32:00.003-06:00

I'm starting a new feature here.Each month I will post some pics of our pets with some pretty funny captions.It's called Phunny Pet Photos !Yes I know funny is spelled with a "f",but hey, its looks good with a lot of "p's".
Anyway,here the first two.These are of Butterscotch and Sadie.Tell me if you want more.

P.S. Make sure to click on the picture to see the captions.

Muddy Roads

2009-09-07T13:45:00.014-06:00

On September 5,we got a lot of rain.About 2 inches and it's been raining off and on since.On that day, my dad and I went back on the rez to see if the washes were filled with water.

On the way to the rez

Water over the road

The washes

Rainbow and Sunset Pics

2009-09-04T14:39:00.004-06:00

Here's some pictures I took on Wednesday before church.God sure loves to paint the sky real beautiful!

Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Parade

2009-08-24T14:17:00.014-06:00

On August 15 (the day we left our campsite),we went home to unload our camping equipment.After we fed Lad,Ebony,and Sadie,changing our clothes,we headed downtown to watch the Ceremonial Parade (different Indian tribes from all over America participate in it). There was a lot of people there,so we had to park a little ways from where you sit.We grabbed our chairs from the trunk and walked down the street.We didn't eat any breakfast that morning, so my dad and I walked to Glenn's Pastries and got some doughnuts.My mom brought water bottles for us to drink and we bought some breakfast burritos.

My breakfast We had to wait a long time for the parade to start.Close to an hour.

The crowd waits in anticipation The parade begins Some Navajo Army vetrans
The Navajo Code Talkers

The Navajo Nation Band

Ring Dancers

I'll post some more pics some other time.Hope you enjoyed these!

Yet Another Picture of Lad

2009-08-24T13:45:00.001-06:00

Camping Adventures Day 2

2009-08-17T15:03:00.014-06:00

Well I'm back with the second part of my retelling of my camping adventures.

It rained all night.I never knew it could rain that much.Sometime early in the morning,my dad got up and found that it had stopped raining.When I woke up,my dad was making breakfast.We had bacon,eggs,and toast.

Here's the bacon.Looks good,huh?

Afterwards,Tasha took me up in the woods a little bit to show me a tree that had been struck by lightning

Here's a picture I took of it

A little while after that,we gathered some things to take with us on our hike.We were going to hike up to the lookout tower (for spotting fires).

Tasha on the trail

Some scenery pics

The lookout tower

The wilderness explorer

When we got back,we laid around awhile.I remember that when we were fixing lunch,it started pouring.We had to hold umbrellas over our food while it was cooking,so we had to eat in the tent.
At night we had some s'mores and hot dogs.We packed up most of are supplies that night,so we could go the the Inter-Tribal Ceremonial parade in the morning.
In the morning,we packed up camp.
I had a wonderful time there!I just hope the next time we go camping it doesn't rain so much.See ya later!

Camping Adventures Day 1

2009-08-13T15:25:00.010-06:00

I'm back!In my last post I told you all that I was going camping with my family.

OK,here's my account of our adventure.
We left our place around 11:30 a.m.We were really packed in like sardines in our van.We stopped at Walmart to get some batteries and some produce.
It took us around 40 minutes to get here.We drove around to pick out a campsite and picked a good one.

Unpacking the van

A little after that we unpacked the van,we set up the tent.

We laid a tarp down on the ground first

We laid the tent down and I got underneath it to raise it up.

Me goofing off

We got the tent up,but because it was too near to a tree,we moved it away from it.

Here's how it looked.We stuck the tarps under the top of the tent to keep more rain off or in.

Another thing we did was put up a hammock.

Natasha relaxing in the hammock

Later on,my dad and I made a fire in the fire pit there to roast marshmallows

We did some other stuff too,but these are just the highlights.Check back in a couple of days to read Part 2.

Going Camping

2009-08-12T16:00:00.002-06:00

Tomorrow afternoon,my family and I will be driving up to McGaffey in the mountains here in New Mexico.It's going to be fun!I assure you,I will post pictures when I get back.See ya later!

I Have The Journey Never Taken!

2009-08-12T15:39:00.003-06:00

Awhile back,I mentioned about Vol.6 of Jonathan Park.Well,I've had for awhile now.It's quite exciting and showed me even more the awful effect of evolution.
I strongly advise you to listen to the show.I've learned so much from it.

Here's a picture of me with The Journey Never Taken,the latest album.

Also here's a picture of my JP collection.

More Eggs

2009-08-10T11:21:00.003-06:00

Recently we've been getting more and more eggs.Granted they're small,but delicious.

Here's a photo of the first egg that wasn't broken.

Right now,I think only two hens are laying right now,but more should be laying eggs soon.
Well,I have to go.See ya!

Picking Up Rocks with the Dogs

2009-08-08T09:20:00.006-06:00

Yesterday,mys parents,my sisters,and I,picked up some gravel out of our back yard.We also let our dogs,Lad and Ebony,out while we worked.Lad especially liked it because he got to ride and sit in the wheelbarrow.

Tasha shoveling the gravel

Lad in the wheelbarrow.He knocked it over one time.

The First Egg

2009-07-31T13:45:00.002-06:00

Yesterday,my dad came inside around supper and asked Ashley if she checked to see if there were any eggs.She had,but she had missed the egg on the floor.She went out and got it,but it was broken.The egg shell was too thin.We hoping to get more eggs from our hens soon.When they do,I post pictures of them.

Yard Sale Time

2009-07-25T14:00:00.007-06:00

Today we just finished our 2-day yard sale.Earlier this week and last week,my mom has been getting ready for it.We helped her,too and now the hard work has paid off.
Here's some pics of the yard sale.We had it in front of the church.

My Mom the cashier

Another pic of the yard sale

I made around $34!My mom is worn out and so am I.Summer is almost over,so I'm going to relax now.

Pictures from the Navajo Reservation

2009-07-17T15:55:00.006-06:00

Here's some pics from the Navajo Reservation.Diné Mission borders it.My dad,Bro.Bill,and I go on the rez (as some people around here call it) to pick people up for church.Sorry that some are tilted.

Painting

2009-07-13T11:26:00.005-06:00

These past few days,my dad,Tasha,Bro.Bill,and I have been painting some things around the mission to make 'em look nice.Here's a couple of pics of Natasha and me painting the benches.

Today,my dad and I painted the bell tower on the church.

My Sister's Blog

2009-07-10T19:53:00.002-06:00

I'm happy to say that my sister Natasha now has a blog,Missionaries' Daughter.Head on over and check it out!

Fourth of July Dinner

2009-07-09T12:03:00.009-06:00

On Independence Day,we had a special patriotic-looking supper.My mom loves to decorate so this gave her an excuse to decorate.

Our re-decorated kitchen

An appetizer tray with a real big baby carrot

Ashley eating the big carrot

The cake my mom made

We didn't go to see the fireworks because Tasha was sick.We did see some that our neighbors shot up.All in all,I had a good time.

I'm Home!

2009-07-04T12:33:00.003-06:00

We're finally in Gallup,New Mexico!!!It's been a long trip but a fun one.I'm so glad I got to see family and friends and see new places.But,it's nice to sit back and relax.
There's one thing I should mention.When I was in Tennessee,I mentioned that Natasha and I were going to youth camp.The reason I haven't put pictures of it on here is because I left my camera at my Aunt Rhonda's and Uncle Daniel's place.I have my camera back now,so look for those photos in the coming weeks.

Winding Down!

2009-06-29T14:04:00.003-06:00

Whew!Our deputation is finally winding down.Right now,we're on the road heading to my aunt and uncle's place in Oklahoma.We'll probably get there around midnight.As for when we'll get home,we hope to get there either on the 2nd or 3rd of July.
Talk to ya' soon!

Banana Seat Bike

2009-06-24T15:01:00.004-06:00

At my grandparents' place,we rode a bicycle that they had bought at an auction that had a banana seat.A banana seat is a bicycle seat that's a lot longer than a normal seat.

Here's the bike

Me adjusting to the new bike

My mom enjoying a bike ride

Jonathan Park Vol.6 Now Available For Preorder!

2009-06-22T12:52:00.004-06:00

Here's some big news for Jonathan Park fan.Jonathan Park:The Journey Never Taken is now here!I'm really excited about this!Now you can get 12 new JP episodes.Here's a summary of the album:

The Polar Star Medallion arrives at the Brenan Museum of Creation, throwing the Creation Response Team into a scavenger hunt the world will never forget. Along the way, they encounter baffling clues, stiff competition, and see many changed lives – as they uncover the history of science. Join the team on their world-wide journey from the United States, to Sweden, Scotland, France, England, and the Czech Republic – in Jonathan Park and the Journey Never Taken!
You can order it now from Vision Forum here.This album will be released in July this year.

If you want to know more about Jonathan Park,visit www.jonathanpark.com

Ashley's 2nd Birthday Party

2009-06-20T12:57:00.009-06:00

Yes,these are pics of Ashley's second b-day party.She had another party with her cousin Joanna in Tennessee.One of the first things we did for her party was churn ice cream.I know.You're probably thinking,"Why break your back when you can use an electric ice cream maker?"My Aunt Amanda only had a hand-churning one,but it was fun.
Ashley churning her birthday ice cream

Me joining in

My Uncle Mike churning

We sat and talked for awhile and my grandma,Aunt Amanda,and my mom made food for supper.
Ashley;hot,sweaty,and ready to eat

Ashley with Uncle Mike

We had sausage and potatoes,vegetables with cheese.For desert,we had homemade vanilla and strawberry pie and of course our well-earned vanilla and peanut butter ice cream.
Ashley opening one of her presents

Well,that's all for now!

I'm Stil Alive

2009-06-19T14:33:00.002-06:00

For all the people who were complaining about how I haven't updated my blog in ages,I'm back.For pretty much a week,Natasha and I were at a church youth camp and I didn't have access to a computer and been pretty busy since then.We left TN a couple weeks ago and went to West Virginia to stay with family and do a couple services.Right now I'm in Pennsylvania with my grandparents.I'll try to update more often.See you around!

Happy Birthday,Ashley!

2009-06-19T14:09:00.005-06:00

Today is my youngest sister Ashley's 7th birthday!My little sis is growing up so fast.We're having a birthday party for her in PA today.If you want to tell her happy birthday,just post a comment.

Hiking in the Smokies

2009-06-06T13:02:00.010-06:00

Today,we(my my parents,sisters,cousins,and my aunt and uncle) drove into the Smoky Mountains to go hiking there at Cades Cove to see a waterfall.

Ashley and Joanna walking toward the trail

My dad,my Uncle Daniel,Tasha,and Jessica walking

This is a big snail that my dad found

The rest of these photos are scenery pics.Enjoy!

Good Ol' Tennessee

2009-06-04T09:27:00.003-06:00

We're now in Friendsville,Tennessee at my aunt and uncle's place.We got here sometime in the evening on Tuesday.It was a long ride.Around 28 hours!My mom's sister's family was on a trip and wouldn't get back until late that night.So the next morning,we greeted them.
We had our first deputation service last night at a church in Morristown.We sang a Navajo hymn and an English song.
Natasha and I will be going to a Christian youth camp next week from the 8th to the 12th.I'll try to get some pics there.

Going on Deputation!

2009-06-01T15:25:00.002-06:00

Right now I'm on the road heading for Tennessee.This year,Natasha and I will be going to a church youth camp.We'll be gone for a monthI'll keep you guys posted.

School Field Day

2009-05-25T15:31:00.018-06:00

This Monday was the start of our last week of school.Our school work was finished on May 22,but this week we just have different school functions.On Monday,we went to Fort Canyon for some outdoor activities.

Some supplies for the trip

Here's some pics of the park

The first game we played was that game where you run from one side of a field to the other carrying an egg on a spoon.We set 2 ropes on the ground and put 2 people on 3 teams.
Here's the girls ready to run

Some dropped it while running,but it didn't crack,...yet.

The boys ready to run and hand it to the girls

Next,we played egg toss.Shelby was on my team and I threw it at her.She caught it,but it busted open.

Tasha's egg busted on her, too.

Somehow Brandi's busted,too.Us boys most throw hard.

After the girls got cleaned up, we played tug-of-war.

The boys won both times.Are we strong or what?
We ate lunch for awhile.While we were eating,very loud thunder sounded and it started to sprinkle.We gathered things up and ran for the van.
We were going to play soft ball in one of the diamonds there,but it was too wet.
So,we went over to Playground of Dreams to play there.

My dad pitched for us

Tasha hitting

It kept raining off and on while we were there.After we left,we went ot Dairy Queen for ice cream!Once we were done,we headed back to school for the rest of the school day.
Well,I gotta go.See ya'!

My Latest School Picture

2009-05-20T16:42:00.001-06:00

Natasha is 12!

2009-05-18T15:30:00.002-06:00

My sister,Natasha,is now 12!I can't believe how she's growing so fast.So,Happy Birthday Natasha!If you'd like to wish her happy birthday,just leave a comment on this post.

Spring Recital 2009

2009-05-16T14:26:00.005-06:00

Yesterday,Natasha and I and some other kids performed for a music recital.As always I was nervous.I was so nervous,I brushed my teeth with the wrong side of my tooth brush.Just kidding,but I was nervous.My piano teacher,Tara,had reserved an all-purpose room in a church to play.

Here's Natasha and her teacher,Emanuel,playing "Minuet"

Here's me playing "Chords on Parade" and "Calypso Carnival"

After everyone else was done with their songs,the orchestra that Natasha is in,played several songs

All the families brought somethings for a snack afterward,but we didn't really eat anything there because we went to Denny's after that to eat.I'm so glad God helped me and Natasha with our pieces.He always comes through.

Recital Time

2009-05-14T15:05:00.002-06:00

It's that time again.Tonight,Natasha and I are performing for our spring recital.And with every recital comes nervousness.I'll let you know how it goes.

Natasha's Outdoor Concert

2009-05-09T12:13:00.008-06:00

Yesterday, Natasha had an outdoor concert outside the children's library.In addition to her violin lessons, she also plays with other kids to make an orchestra.This was their first playing in public.They played for the dedication of the new playground beside the library.They had a lot of other stuff for the ceremony,too.

People starting to gather

That's my sister getting ready to play

The orchestra playing.The one on the far right is her violin teacher,Emanuel.They played the sons "Sweet Hour" and "Country Cooking"

I was really proud of her.She did a really good job.

A Trip to the Wolf Ranch

2009-05-01T15:35:00.013-06:00

Last Friday we went to the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary in Candy Kitchen,New Mexico.I've actually been there before about 4 years ago.Anyway,we went to school and sat around waiting to go.

Then Bro.Don came in and told us to get on the school van.
All of us boys were in the back seat with everyone else divided in the rest of the seats.
It took over a hour to get there.Plus we had to go over some very bumpy dirt roads.
We were real glad to get out and stretch when we got there.

This is the sign out front:

We got a group pic in front of it too:

I also got a photo of myself in front of it:

This is the welcome center and gift shop:

There was a lot of neat stuff in the gift shop

Here's something for you coffee fans.This is the coffee table there.The word "coffee" is written in several languages on the board.

After everyone was ready,we went on the tour

Here's our guide,Allison,talking about the wolves

This is Flurry,one of the wolves

The one on the left actually has some collie in her.She's really a plain dog,but she gets along with the wolf on the right

After the tour was over,we went back to Gallup and ate at Burger King.I had a real good time.This was one of the best field trips I've been on.

Moving Day for the Chickens

2009-04-13T15:35:00.007-06:00

Today's the day that we moved the chickens from our front porch to the barn.It's a good thing to because they were starting to stink!
On Friday,we put a floor in the chicken coop so it would be easier to clean

As you can see from the pictures below,the chicks changed their looks since the other photos I took.

So after I got down with my school work,I went down to our trailer to help my dad move the chickens out.My dad had bought a water trough and a feeder.

Here's my dad spreading hay around the floor

Setting up one of the feeders

We took the brooder box to the barn and put the chicks in the coop

Well,I'm glad that the chickens are outside now and so does my mom.

The Best Birthday Party Ever!

2009-04-11T10:38:00.011-06:00

I thought my birthday party was going to be just me and my family this time,but I was wrong.My dad went to town to shop,so I thought.I was on our back porch and my dad asked me to get my camera.I went to my room to get it.When I walked in,I saw a backpack on the floor and before I could put 2 and 2 together,Chaise,Ryan,and Jose jumped out from under my desk,behind the door,and the side of my bookshelf and shouted "Suprise!"I was so shocked.My dad had picked them up when he was in town.
We then went out to the barn and played around.

The boys climbing into the loft

We then played Laser Tag outside for awhile and then went inside to supper and ate chicken enchiladas,broccoli,and watermelon.After that,we went to see the Passion of Christ play at a church in Gallup that they perform every year.

The poster for the play

I wasn't able to take pictures myself,but I do have some pics from another site.

A women touched by Jesus

Some Jewish women singing

Jesus raised from the dead

The play was awesome as usual and made me cry.After that we went home to my birthday party.
I got to open Natasha's present first and this is what she bought me.

Natasha had said to me that she would buy me one for my birthday because it had my initials.Austin Matthew Peachey
I got some other things including cards with money.
Here's my cake

All of this turned out to be a very enjoyable time.Now I'm going to eat some leftover cake lol!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2009-04-09T18:15:00.003-06:00

The day is here!I am now 15 years old.I'm enjoying it because I'll only have a year to enjoy being 15.

Irish Cowboys

2009-04-04T17:43:00.003-06:00

Today I went to Wal-Mart and found out that a green wig that was meant for St.Patrick's Day was on clearance.(I wasn't going to buy it before it was on clearance.)
When we got home,we put the wig on and took pictures of us.

I came up with the cowboy hat idea and yes that's me

Natasha mimicking my cowboy outfit

Sadie's New Look

2009-03-25T18:15:00.003-06:00

Today my mom took Sadie to a pet groomer to get a lot of her fur off.She looks a lot different as you can see in the pictures below.

She's more active now that she feels lighter.

Chickens in the House

2009-03-19T19:58:00.009-06:00

My dad ordered some baby chickens awhile back.We were supposed to get them yesterday but that didn't happen.Today we got them though.We picked them up at the post office The box they were in On they way home,we picked up Jose and Danitsa(some of our friends) up for a sleepover. Below are some pictures of putting them in the coop my dad made for them. Some of the chicks Jose and Danitsa with one of the chicks Putting them in Pouring some feed
Right now they're on our porch.
If you'd like to see a video of us putting the chicks in the coop,right-click this link and click "Save Target As."
Sorry I wasn't able to put it up so you could see it right here.

Some Pictures Around the Mission

2009-03-14T16:57:00.005-06:00

These are the crosses on top of a hill that the mission owns.

The dogs' kennel

Some donkeys on the reservation

More Photos from Sun Valley Camp

2009-03-07T14:22:00.006-07:00

Ashley on a bed in the girls' room

The girls in an orange tree

A field of cactus

Even More Sunset Pictures

2009-03-03T16:08:00.003-07:00

Valentine's Day Party:Home Edition

2009-02-25T18:38:00.009-07:00

This Sunday,we had a Valentine's Day party for my dad.We do this every year.Here's some pics I took:

The table decorated by all the girls of the house

Our delicious ham!Don't drool on your keyboard!

Another table and food picture

Me trying to figure out which is the napkin and which is the tablecloth.And no,I didn't knock the stuff of the table(that's a reference to an Adventures in Odyssey episode)

Another Clown Picture of Me

2009-02-20T16:31:00.003-07:00

You may remember the other clown pictures I posted last in Tennessee.Right here is another one of yours truly.

Valentine's Day Party

2009-02-11T16:13:00.008-07:00

On Monday the 9th,the school had a Valentine's Day party.Both the Upper Learning Center and Lower Learning Center had it in the lunch room.We had pizza,cupcakes,and a cake that Danitsa had made.Then we passed out Valentines.Here's some pics from the party.

Getting ready to eat

Our dessert (we had pizza for the main course)

My valentines

Call me weird but here's me making a heart with my hands

The first-graders

Christmas Recital 2008

2009-02-02T16:58:00.004-07:00

It's been a long time coming but here's pictures from me and Natasha's recital.Tasha got a new violin teacher last year when her old teacher moved.If you want to listen to the music I played right click on this link and choose Save Target As.And here's Natasha's music here.
Below are pictures of us.

P.S.I played Angels We Have Heard on High with my teacher.

End of Quarter Awards

2009-01-28T14:46:00.015-07:00

Last night we had a PTF meeting (Parent-Teacher Fellowship).This is when we get our grades for the quarter and get certificates and coupons for the lunch room. The first graders (Ashley's in that grade) came and sang and then rang the bells to the song "Holy,Holy,Holy!".

Edit
You can now watch the video I took of them here.

After they did that,they read a poem and then came the rewards!
Sis.Nona passed out the certificates.

Ashley receiving her certificate.

Marrissa getting hers

Natasha taking hers

Me receiving my certificate and Wal-Mart gift card (a $10 one)for getting the highest grade point average.And Ashley got the highest GPA in her class.
I'm so glad for the Lord's help this quarter.

Views from Sandia Peak

2009-01-27T15:14:00.003-07:00

Pictures from Sun Valley Camp

2009-01-26T15:36:00.010-07:00

On Friday,my family,me,and Natasha's friend Danitsa went to Sun Valley Camp in Phoenix,Arizona.We went there mainly to get my Uncle Tim and bring him back to visit with us awhile.It took about 4 hours to get there.We had a great time.Here's a couple of pictures.

The girls acting crazy

These are some of the orange and grapefruit trees there.We picked a lot of them while we were there

The church

This is the place we stayed in

Me on a palm tree.This palm tree was tilted so it was easy to climb up it a little

Danitsa giving it a try

The rest are just some scenery pics

The Creation Museum

2009-01-22T18:56:00.005-07:00

On deputation in 2007,we visited the Creation Museum in Kentucky.It was an awesome experience.I don't think that anyone could go through it and not see that God created this world.Here some pictures from the museum.
P.S.You can visit their site here.

Sadie's Christmas Dress

2009-01-12T16:41:00.004-07:00

This is a picture of Sadie on Christmas Day in Oklahoma.Natasha like's to dress her up.

A Great Sunrise

2009-01-07T19:15:00.005-07:00

When my family went back east for deputation last year,we were coming out of Albuquerque,we saw this amazing sunrise.I guess God likes to start our day with a beautiful painting in the sky.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T13:56:00.002-07:00

Well,2009 is here!2008 went by so fast!Time seems to go faster for me each year.Oh,and by the way,we're back in New Mexico.I missed Gallup while I was in Oklahoma but now I'm home!Happy New Year!