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.