Sunday, December 27, 2009

Christmas is over and it was a super fantastic one. Jacinda got littiest pet shop stuff and McCabe got airplane and helicopter toys. But the best part is that we spent more on giving than on getting and it was awesome. Here is a picture of our Christmas tree. I should mention that a neighbor friend came over on the 23rd dressed as Santa. He belted out, “ho ho ho, merry Christmas,” outside the front door. The kids freaked. Jacinda said, “Santa, quick get into bed,” and ran upstairs. I told her to come back and open the door. Jacinda was giddy but McCabe was frightened. Nevertheless, Santa was great. He gave each of the kids a present and visited for a few minutes. After he left Jacinda was laughing. McCabe was still frightened. He did not warm up to Santa at all.

We also served breakfast to the missionaries. This has been our tradition for the past 3 years. We love having them come and share their stories and Christmas traditions.

Once their tummies are full, they use our phones to call their families. It works out really well. We were really grateful to have the missionaries come this particular year. When they arrived at our door, they informed us that our driveway was on fire. Sure enough it was. Tim had left a fire in our white trash fire pit to burn out. Well some of the ashes landed on our driveway grate and burned away.

Now we get to clean up the melted plastic and replace the grate (merry Christmas to us). I am just thankful that it did not cause more damage….that could had been really tragic.

Jacinda had a Christmas program at her school. She did a great job singing and performing. After the program we got to view the children’s art work. Jacinda is doing a great job staying inside the lines when coloring.

As previously mentioned, Xadia is responding to voices with smiles. Here are a few pictures of that cutie.

I also had to add a picture of her with this cute purple hat made by Tilly Glenn. Xadia got a lot of compliments and smiles when she wore that hat to the store. I love my kids.

My Week

Had a great week. Jacinda turned five Dec. 12th. We had a pony party for her. We played some pony games and then hit the pinata. The party ended with lunch and opening gifts. She got some clay, some coloring activities, a CTR necklace, and a pink camera. It has been so fun watching Jacinda take pictures. She takes them of everything....the t.v., the christmas lights, the computer screen.....you name it and she will have a picture of it.

Jacinda the birthday girl.

I can't believe all the candy these kids are getting. McCabe had a melt down in church because he could not have his treat bag. It almost got to the point where I was ready to go home and show him some tough love. I hope he does not repeat this behavior next week because I am speaking in church. It will be very difficult to parent from the podium although my mom did it once. My older siblings were rowdy in sacrament while my mom was talking...she stopped her talk and said their names over the pulpit and then gave them the stink eye. They turned stone cold. Good learning lesson thanks mom.

Tim is not going to take the job in Bend Oregon. Too many contingencies attached to up root the family and move away four hours.

Xadia is a cutie. She is sleeping five hours during the night. She also is smiling and being super cute in her responding. I am so glad she is part of the family.

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Today was very enjoyable. Xadia was given a baby blessing by Tim. The blessing was very focused on finding joy in life by living the gospel. In short, it was beautiful and very centered on following Jesus Christ. Xadia slept throughout the blessing. Tim was the one who cried. He is very sensitive to the spirit and what better way to show gratitude and sincerity than by humbling oneself to tears. Xadia has been a blessing to our family. It is very hard not to evoke love around her. She is starting to show her personality by smiling when you call her name or talk to her. I can’t describe the feelings that overcome me when she responds in such a happy manner. All I can say is that she is wonderful.

Xadia's baby blessing


(Our first family picture)

McCabe is a funny little boy. He is trying so hard to be potty trained but still has accidents. He is at a fun stage in life. I love his personality. He is so spontaneous….he loves to run around in his underwear. The second he walks through the door, off come his clothes. It is nearly impossible to keep clothes on his body. He also still loves to run around saying, “hot crossed buns….I like momma’s buns.” And anything he finds gross or repulsive, he responds with a “nasty patty.” He got that saying from Spongebob Squarepants.

McCabe in his underwear.



Funny McCabe

Jacinda is getting sweeter every day. She is extremely helpful with chores, making dinner, and putting the binky in Xadia’s mouth. She will be 5 on the 12th of Dec. I can’t believe how smart she is for her age. Already she knows how to maneuver the computer to play games and find learning activities…..Oh and don’t even get me started on manners. I do want to share this quick story. This past weekend we were in Bend Oregon eating with some friends. One of our friends turns to Jacinda after taking a bite of her meal and asks her a question. Jacinda says, “You shouldn’t talk with your mouth full.” I immediately grabbed my napkin and hid my face. I was so embarrassed yet at the same time I could not stop laughing. Thank goodness our friend was really cool about the situation. What can I say, kids are so honest and make being a parent an awesome job.

Sunday, November 22, 2009

What a fun week we had. It is now rainy season here in Longview so that means a lot of indoor activities. And since the holidays are right around the corner….it was time to get out the candy thermometer. We made turtles, caramels, mints, and peanut butter fudge. We also dipped some of these yummy concoctions in chocolate. The kids helped dip one piece of candy and then they focused on licking the spoons and the bowl. It is amazing how much chocolate McCabe and get on him. He had it all over his face, arms, chest, and leg. We had a great time and now I can’t wait to give them away (the chocolates of course).

Home made turtle chocolates.

Another fun indoor activity was building forts. I think we all did this as a child. Grab some couch cushions and a blanket and voila….a perfect fort to hide in. They really love these forts. In fact, I had to lure McCabe out of his so I could get a picture. He totally reminds me of Biff’s friend on “Back to the Future,” when he wears the 3-D glasses.

McCabe sporting 3-D glasses.

Jacinda loves to jump on the blanket so the “roof” crashes in. Speaking of crashes, today was a blustery day. The wind was kicking wild. It caused a 6 hour power outage and knocked down many trees ruining part of our swing set Tim built this past summer. Fortunately that was the only damage we encountered. Our neighbor had a huge tree fall on their car and part of their house. It shattered the back window and smashed the roof of the car. The house had minor damage.

Damaged swing set.

Well it has been six weeks since Xadia arrived. I am in the routine of things; however, I still need a nap to keep me going. I love this picture of Tim, Jacinda, and Xadia because it is a true representation of being a parent. The kids are wide awake while mom or dad is dragging along. Oh to have the energy of a child.

A true parent

I love the fact that Christmas is coming. It really changes my thinking and puts me in a good mood. (I know I should be like that all the time but there is a time and a season for everyone. Maybe when I am older I will be able to sustain it for the entire year.) You all know the saying, “one good deed deserves another.” We got to put that into practice on Saturday. Tim and I had a breakfast date. While at the restaurant there was a family of four sitting in the corner. I said to Tim, “Do you want to do something fun?” His response was, “as long as you don’t embarrass me.” I laughed and informed him that I wanted to anonymously pay the tab for the family in the corner. Tim agreed and we told the waitress our plan and she helped execute it smoothly. Walking out of the restaurant I was all smiles and walking on clouds. It felt so good to secretly surprise another person in a caring fashion. I do not tell that story to brag but to let you know that kind acts inspire. This once happened to me 12 years ago at Utah State. I was eating at JB’s restaurant with Bob, my buddy (from the Best Buddies program which is befriending a handicap person) and someone anonymously paid our tab. I was so appreciative especially since I was a poor college student. I will never forget that kind act and I will let it inspire me to do good (even if it takes 12 years). So now the question is what will you do today to inspire someone?

Monday, November 9, 2009

Bright eyed Xadia!


Happy halloween with an I love you sign from Jacinda.


Bike riding in the park.

Posing for a picture at the park.

Precious little gift from God.

I love being a mom of three kids. I just accomplished my first big challenge…..going to the store with 3 kids. Sure bribery was part of the trip but I had no stray children or tantrums in the aisles! I am getting some sleep. Some nights are better than others. Xadia wakes up around 1:00 and 4:00 a.m. for feedings. She is now 4 weeks old and starting to fill out. The kids absolutely love her. They always ask to hold her or kiss her head when I am rocking her.

I almost lost my wits the other day because the kids want to help take care of Xadia. I was loading the dishwasher and Xadia was quietly resting in her swing. After a moment, I heard her fussing. To my astonishment McCabe was carrying Xadia over to me. I gasped and ran over to assist McCabe. After the incident I had a little talk with McCabe. I had to break it to him that he cannot pick up Xadia without mom’s or dad’s help. He had a melt down and started crying. Ohhhh the joys of being a mother and having a determined little helper.

I had an oncology appointment Thursday. Taking the whole family was comical especially when waiting in the exam room. The kids wanted to blow up the latex gloves, or put the colored bandages on their arms, or climb on the exam table. In short they wanted to do everything they were not supposed to do. I don’t even know why we brought coloring books for them. The doctor said everything looks good. I am 1.5 years in remission. Once I hit the 2 year mark it is very unlikely (3% chance) that the cancer will come back (YES!!).

McCabe is cracking me up! He is at a fun age. He likes to walk around the house singing, “hot crossed buns, hot crossed buns, one a penny two a penny hot crossed buns.” Every so often he will sing his own version such as… “hot crossed buns, I like momma’s buns,” and then end with a huge gut laugh. My boy is so silly. He is spending too much time around his dad. In fact he tells us he wants to go on a mission and be a “missionmary.” When asked where he wants to serve, he says, “pillapeens” (aka Philippines just like his dad).

Sunday, October 18, 2009

We have a new arrival…..Xadia Christine Fisher.





Everything went really smoothly….it only took two contractions and a few pushes and she was here. She was born, Saturday, October 10, 2009 at 11:25 am. Weighing 8 lbs 7 oz and 21.75 inches. She is a joy to have. I am not getting much sleep at the moment but it is all worth it. Her siblings are very excited to have her at the home. Jacinda is a very big help. In fact, Jacinda will want to feed her, change her diapers and hold her every chance she gets. McCabe loves being a big brother but I have to watch him closely because he doesn’t understand that Xadia is fragile (aka breakable). McCabe will shove the bottle in her mouth or try to touch her eyes when they are open.



A few people have asked how we came up with the name of Xadia. Here is the story. I chose a few names and presented them to Tim. He did not like any of them. So he came up with a list and I liked the name “Zada.” I later discovered it was Arabic meaning fortunate or lucky. I thought that was perfect because I felt extremely fortunate that I was able to have a baby considering my body went through a beating with chemo and radiation last year. However, I thought that adding the “ia” ending sounded more feminine. Tim agreed and suggested we spell it with an “X.” I was delighted that we agreed on a name. So spelling it with an “X” was fine by me.





A couple of random things that will make great memories…. Jacinda told me the other day that she wants to be a fire fighter and a barrette maker when she grows up. As for McCabe, he wants to be a mommy. Saturday morning our family went out for some exercise. I walked, Tim jogged and the kids rode their bikes. It started to rain so Jacinda stopped her bike and said a prayer that it would stop raining. She later told me and I was so pleased that she knows there is a God to whom she can talk to at any time.

Friday, October 9, 2009

So here it is nearly a week later since the false labor. This time it is for real. I am going to be induced in about 8 hours. I am very excited to have this little one in my arms instead of in my belly. Jacinda has made pictures and letters for her. She tells me to close my eyes so the baby won't see what is on the paper. She is totally ready to be a big sister again. I don't think Mac has fully understood that a baby is going to come. We tell him and he will rub my belly and say, "baby," but it will be a different story when she arrives.

Sunday, October 4, 2009

I had a great birthday. Tim surprised me with a facial (loved it!!) and then with flowers and balloons. As I walked out to the car, there were more balloons tied to chocolates and a sweet little note colored by Jacinda. It was so nice to be pampered, spoiled, and feel so special. Later that night we went out to eat. I did not realize how big and quick my kids are....or maybe they were just dessert deprived. We split 2 brownies among the 4 of us. I think McCabe and Jacinda ate 3/4 of the dessert. I have never seen them devour food so quickly.

Later that night about 8:30 I started having contractions about 5 minutes apart. At 11:30 pm Tim and I went to the hospital. I was only dialated to a 3 but my contractions were regular so they kept me hooked up for 2 hours. During that time the contractions slowed and remained at a 3. Needless to say by 2:00 am I was ready to go home. So Tim and I left the hospital. The nurses were very surprised that I did not deliver that night/morning but they did say they expect to see us within the next day or two.

Sunday, Sept. 20, 2009

Life is to be enjoyed righteously. That is my thought for the day. I was encountered by an individual who spoke about suicide in a somewhat frivolous manner. At first it made me angry because there are so many who would love to live longer but can’t because of disease or illnesses. When I had cancer I was trying to relish everyday because I did not know if I would live or die. Then I started to take a second look at what was said and the reason for it and realized that in this person’s mind, she does not feel like she has a lot to live for. All I can say is that the gospel brings great joy, meaning, and peace to those who abide to its teachings. The best way to get out of a pity party is to serve those around you because it shows your love for the savior and those whom you serve.

This past week the missionaries helped put bark in our yard. McCabe decided it would be more fun to be buried in the bark instead of spreading it. So Elder Tidd buried McCabe in the bark. McCabe kept saying, “more, more.” Thank goodness Elder Tidd had the sense to stop or else the trailer of bark would have covered McCabe.

McCabe and Tim enjoyed their 3rd father and son campout this past weekend. They went to Camas, Washington. Friday was a beautiful day, but Saturday was all rain. Nevertheless they had a good time, dutch oven cooking, eating s’mores, and sleeping in the tent. Jacinda and I had a girl’s night out. We took Jacinda’s friend Rachel Mumford to Taco Bell, or as Jacinda calls it, “Taco Bells.” The girls had a great time playing in the tunnel slide and eating their dinner. Afterwards we went back to the Mumfords where I got to talk with Becky and the girls got to play. It was a great evening.

Jacinda is big into being a girl. That means make-up and hair. Today she did my hair. She put it in a pony tail and used a lot of hairspray. She was so pleased with her work that she had to take pictures. She is also big into helping me. She changed McCabe’s diaper today and did a pretty good job. She just needs to make sure the diaper is tight so it does not fall off when McCabe stands up. I am sure she will master that with practice.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

I enjoyed another week of being a mother. It started off with the kids teasing each other and McCabe throwing a block at Jacinda and splitting open part of her scalp. I was livid when this happened; fortunately Tim was there to take care of McCabe while I took care of Jacinda. The cut was not deep enough for stitches, but it bled for a bit. It is so frustrating to see one of your kids get hurt….no matter who does it you want to put on your battle attitude and set things right so it never occurs again. McCabe got a scolding and a time out.

Among the bitter and reforming times of raising kids there are also the sweet moments when I get to teach my children important principles. This was a fun little game Tim and I played with the kids just before bed time. We would throw a fuzzy dice to one another and state one thing we were thankful for. McCabe repeatedly said his trains. Jacinda said she was thankful for Jessica Rawson, her new babysitter, her house, her ceramic bird from Nana McCabe, and the new baby that is coming. Every so often McCabe would copy her (out of turn) but for the most part he kept saying “trains.”

Jacinda and I went to the dentist on Friday. She is in the no cavities club so she got her name on the wall and a toy from the treasure chest. She absolutely loves the dentist. As we drove home Jacinda said, “I want to go there again tomorrow.” “Well honey you can’t, but we will go again in six months.” “Oh I can’t wait that long.” I laughed at her response. I am so happy that she is having such a pleasant experience. I wonder how things will change when she has a cavity.


This past weekend was stake conference. I absolutely loved it. I took away two fantastic messages that will help improve my life. The first involves trials. When faced with a trial, don’t blame or get angry with God. Instead think about what you can learn from the trial. The second message entails to always remember God. There are many times in my life things don’t go the way I want them. I need to stop and remember that I am on the Lord’s errand…..not mine own and that when life gets a little hard don’t forget to ask Him for help. I love the messages and the talks I was able to hear. I feel like my life has been calibrated to face the up coming week.

Sunday, September 6, 2009

I had a quick minute to write some thoughts and happenings in the Fisher household. At the moment I am 35 weeks pregnant and very tired. I am having contractions with back pain but no abdominal pain. I am so ready to have this girl. Jacinda and McCabe are really cute. They like to kiss and hug my tummy aka "the baby." As I come to the end of my pregnancy, I have gained 30 pounds so far. Tim has lost 30 pounds and now we are 4 lbs away from being the same weight. It is really funny how we almost weigh the same.

McCabe is really living the life of a 2 year-old. He wants to do everything himself first and then he lets others help him. He has also picked up the word "poopoo head" thanks to the movie "Bugs Life." I have tried very hard to break him of saying poopoo head but I do not win in the least bit.

Jacinda is extremely helpful.....almost to the point where she should not help. When she sees me cleaning she asks, "mom, what can I do?" I love the fact that she wants to help but I need to gain some more patience because it takes twice as long when she helps and I have limited time. Although the other day I let the two of them clean the shower glass wall. I have never seen so much windex used to clean glass. I have also never seen so much windex on the bathroom floor. Another thing about Jacinda is that she is big into hearing stories about Tim and I during our younger years. Tim likes to start off his stories in a goofy voice by saying, "um.....when I was a little girl...." and Jacinda would say, "no, a little boy dad." It is a cute game they play.

Monday, August 24, 2009

We are back from a 2 week California vacation. The first week was packed with activities. Friday the 7th was Nana’s memorial. It was small and lovely. Family was there and good memories were shared about nana and how she left her foot print on our lives.


Nana's plot

Saturday the 8th was Linda’s wedding. It was a hot day in Redlands, but happiness was in the air. Linda looked beautiful and was so happy. The reception was very fun. It was a tropical theme. Linda is an artist so she drew palm trees and tropical leaves on the walls. She also made the palm tree center pieces. The food was excellent and the guests were fun to see. It was a 4th ward and 2nd ward re-union for Tim and me.

Sunday the 9th was Lohan Stubb’s blessing. Ethan gave a beautiful blessing. I really appreciated the fact that he blessed his son with good health. That is so important. I don’t think we understand the significance of good health until it is taken from us. After the first two sentences of the blessing I had to take McCabe out of sacrament meeting due to all of his screaming.

The next week was followed with relaxation and holding the baby Lohan. I can’t wait….only 7 more weeks until we have our little one.

The next week we spent in Catalina fishing, telling jokes, eating, snorkeling, and swimming. We had a lot of fun and made some great memories. Tim and Ethan had a great time kayaking and splashing people (they reminded me of two 12 year-old boys). It made me laugh and happy to see them having a great time. Another memory is Jacinda dropping her flashlight off the pier. Time decided to go after it in a row boat. While getting out, Tim stood up, lost his balance and fell into the water.

Jacinda had a great time building sand castles and finding seashells. McCabe liked dumping water on everybody’s sand creations. He also had many falls during this trip. The people around us would say, “ouch,” or “oh know!” each time he fell. McCabe’s falls did not phase us. We got used to his falling. It was bound to happen every time he took off running.


Catalina pier


McCabe and Jacinda in snorkeling gear

Tim and Ethan showing off their sun tans.

Picture on the pier.

Mac ready for a stroll

Tim and McCabe in the hot tub.

Boat ride.

Tim and Jacinda in the hot tub.

Kade, Lance, Soli, and Jacinda.

Monday, August 3, 2009

I came across this great presentation. I call it a 90 second reality check. It really puts life into perspective and calibrates oneself to the truly important things in life. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Click on the link to see it and don't forget to have your volume on.

http://sprintindirectsales.com/7WondersoftheWorld.wmv

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Only ten weeks to go before the baby comes and we still don't have a name. It is driving me crazy but we are trying to agree on a name. The baby is moving quite frequently. She really likes to move at night when I am trying to sleep. McCabe and Jacinda are very excited for the baby. McCabe asks at least twice a day if the baby is moving and if I answer, "yes," he will kiss my tummy. Jacinda will talk to the baby. The other day I was making some cookies with her and the baby kicked. I said, "ouch, the baby just kicked me." Jacinda then says, "mom I need to talk to the baby. Baby, don't kick mommy o.k. because it will hurt her." I nearly lost my composure. It was the sweetest and funniest moment combined into one. These kids are adorable.

Summer has been really fun. We have been doing so much. Below is a recap of the past two weeks.


Face painting at the stake pioneer celebration. We waited an hour for that beautiful to be painted. One mom told her daugther in the line that she will paint her face when they get home. I wish that worked with us, but the guy did an awesome job.

Summer is never complete without bubbles......on the back deck or front porch or at the river or anywhere. We LOVE bubbles!!

BBQ's and eating. Summer time is the best for fresh fruits and veggies and eating outside.

Elder Beardall and Elder Tidd are the missionaries that live in our basement. We love having them in our house. It is always a treat to see them and to feed them. They put up with the kids really well and the kids love to tackle them.

Planting trees in the front yard. Yes the missionaries are helping and yes those are apple trees....after all Washington produces the best apples.

Tim, Jacinda, and McCabe enjoying the sunshine and kiddie pool before the summer is over and before they grow out of it.

There has been many good times, however, I must mention the passing of nana (Virginia Louise McCabe). She was 92 and a very classy lady. I am so happy Tim had such a neat grandma. She was always in the mood for a good game of mexican trains or Rummikub. She was such a blessing to family history. Over 40 years of her life was spent traveling to different places to visit record halls, cemeteries, and other places that contain family history. She was amazing. She also had the best stories to tell about her childhood. Her memory was amazing, even in her old age she was so keen, sharp, and wise. I will miss her dearly and the fun times we had especially eating out at the little mexican restaurant in Forest Grove Oregon. Nana we love you and your memory will always live in us.

Virginia Louise McCabe

October 17, 1916 to July 17, 2009.