Thursday, December 29, 2011

Thursday, December 29, 2011

We had a great Christmas. It was also a time of learning. We had bought some battery operated cars at a garage sale in California back in August. According to the seller, the cars both worked. We were so excited about these cars and got them home without the kids knowing. Well two weeks before Christmas, we found out that the cars do not work. What a waste of $90. Next time, we will make sure they work before purchasing the product. However, the kids seem very happy with their scooters and other presents. I got a new hot glue gun and a hand mixer. Tim got a juicer and some yummy treats to share with his office staff.

I love Christmas because it is about what you give not what you get. We also did some sub for Santa stuff and baked lots of goodies for our neighborhood. The church service was beautiful but only going for one hour seemed too short. My cup was only 1/3 of the way full.

My children are getting so big. McCabe told me that when I am old, he will make me goodies and bring them to my house for Christmas. He is such a sweet boy. Xadia makes me proud because I only have to tell her once to go get in her bed for nap time and she does it. Jacinda is very good at helping me do odd end items like entertain Xadia while I finish folding laundry.

I am 7 months pregnant and it is so hard to do tasks. This morning I cleaned the kitchen and dining area. By noon there was so much pain in my lower back I could not move without hurting. I am so thankful for Tim. He comes home from work and takes care of the kids. At the moment, he took the 3 kids along with 2 neighbor kids swimming. He is so good to me. I feel bad I have to miss out on watching them play but my body is so big, I do not fit into my swimsuit and I move 2 times slower than usual. I can’t wait until March. It will be fun to have this boy in my arms instead of my body.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Thursday, December 8, 2011



All great people must meet their maker. I will miss you Jim, you were a great man!

"Our Chief"
December 3rd on a clear, crisp night a new star was illuminated in the heavens. Our amazing husband, devoted dad and dear friend, James Nicholas Hefner, slipped away at the home he built, with loving family and friends at his side, following a valiant battle with Renal Cancer.
Jim was born January 1, 1945 in Greenwood, Wisconsin to Peter Nicholas and Catherine Eva Schmitz Hefner. He graduated from Marshfield High School in 1962 and was looking forward to his 50th class reunion next year. He enlisted in the United States Air Force shortly after graduation, and was always so proud to serve his country. Jim served 2 tours in Vietnam.
Jim retired from the USAF at the rank of Chief Master Sargeant in 1985 and began his career as a home builder, completing over 50 homes in Davis County. He married the "girl of his dreams" Deborah Black, in 1989 in Norman, Oklahoma at her sister's home. Their family became complete when Ashleigh was born in 1991.
Jim loved living in Farmington and was always involved in activities which made his community a better place. He was currently serving as Commander of American Legion Post #27. Jim loved being with his family, being on his boat at Flaming Gorge, and walking his dog Luci through the Somerset neighborhood he loved. He was always there when someone needed his hand and his hammer.
Jim is survived by his wife, Deb, their daughter Ashleigh, son Nick (Kenna), daughter Melinda (Brian Batie), brother Thomas (Susan), sister Donna (Robert Hinker), sister and brother in law Donna and Steve Minch, nieces Jessie (Matthew Buechel), Beckie Minch-Green, grandchildren, Aliana, Ciara, Jonathan and Marcus, grand nephew Luke, former spouse Leslie Hefner.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 10 at 11 a.m. at the Somerset Chapel 1885 N. Summerwood Drive, Farmington. Friends may visit Friday from 5:30-8 p.m. at the Russon Brothers Mortuary, 1941 North Main, Farmington and Saturday from 9:30-10:45 a.m. at the church prior to services.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Davis Education Foundation, 45 E. State St., Farmington 84025 for the Davis High Marching Band in Jim's name. Jim was a "Band Dad" and loved the DHS Band!
Condolences may be sent to http://www.russonmortuary.com/

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Every time I get on my blog it seems like I have nothing new to say….at least nothing ground breaking so I will talk about the day to day life. McCabe and Jacinda are taking Tae Kwan Do. They love it. It is so much fun to watch them kick and to punch with some technique.

So last week Tim wore a Christmas tie to church. McCabe wanted to wear one also so I told him we would make him some. We went to the fabric store and he picked out 2 Christmas fabrics. I made him two ties and then practiced tying them. I finally got the hang of it….however; it was almost comical to watch me figure it out. I almost went to you tube to watch a demonstration. McCabe loves his ties. In fact, the next day he went to pre-school wearing a lovely tie with his skateboarding T-shirt. Some battles are not worth fighting. I am just happy he was dressed and arrived to pre-school on time.

So our latest home project was re-doing the laundry/bathroom. We ripped out the white with turquoise streaked tile, the peach toilet, and low-grade vanity. We put in new tile, vanity, toilet, and chair rail. I also painted. I spent a few hours measuring, cutting the molding and painting. I am happy with the result. However, the very next day I was not too happy. Let me first warn you….this story is going to be hilarious in 10 years. So I saw a box elder on the molding near the toilet. I grabbed some toilet paper, bent down to pick it up and noticed urine on my newly painted molding. WHAT!!! Immediately I called out McCabe and asked him if he did this and his response was, “I might have, sometimes I miss the toilet.” Aargh! More mess for me to clean. It is fantastic being a mom!


updated laundry/bathroom

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Had a crazy yet normal week. My emotions got the best of me. I normally try to be a pleasant and optimistic person but Saturday everything came to a head and I had a breakdown. I felt over worked, tired, and frustrated….mainly because I had to keep picking up after the children and thinking about how another child is going to be added to the mix. It felt good to cry and get it out of my system. I feel like a new woman today.

In church I participated in a young women’s lesson. I got the privilege to talk about the blessing of having children. I was not the ideal candidate to give my opinion about this topic after my bad week, but I looked at motherhood as a whole and it is a wonderful thing. I think my five minutes went over well with the ladies and my points were made. No matter how trying children can be…..they ultimately make us happy and a better person. I thank God for the privilege of being a mother.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Sunday, October 23, 2011


Fisher Family


Tim and Sasha holding hands.



Tim and Sasha



Fisher Family 2011

I had a great birthday. I got my hair chopped. There was about 12 inches cut and donated to Locks of Love. The hair dresser worked with the left over. It is fun to have short hair again.

Xadia had her 2nd birthday on the 10th. It was really low key and fun. The kids wrapped her presents. She got a lot of fake food for her play kitchen and then we had cake and ice cream. Xadia was as happy as can be especially the with doggy wrapping paper. My mom had her birthday on the 22nd, she turned 70. Rest in peace mom.

I am so happy we got family pictures. However, they will be out of date when our son comes in March….but I will enjoy them now.

Tomorrow I start in the usual daily schedule….wake up, get the kids ready. Get Jacinda off to school and then I get to clean the upstairs bathrooms. I am sure that Xadia and McCabe will help. My kids surprise me with their willingness to do work. They are good kids.

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Sunday, October 2, 2011

So let me first start off by saying…”Happy Birthday to Me!” After having cancer, birthdays are so special…I do not dread getting older. There are so many good things to enjoy in this life. This morning started with Tim waking me up saying “it’s game time.” That meant, it is time to watch the kids. We have the Mumfords and Nallions staying with us. They went to the Sunday morning session of conference. So we got to watch some of their kids. It was really fun. I am very grateful for the 3 I have and the boy on the way. We are very blessed. I believe four will be my limit if I want to stay sane and nice.
I got my hair cut to chin length…it had previously went to the middle of my back. I beautician was shocked, but I wanted to donate my hair to locks of love. Sure enough she chopped it and did a great job with my new hairdo. I really like. I also got a carpet cleaner for my birthday. I have already ysed it to clean 3 rooms. It is awesome.
I love conference…what better way to spend a birthday than to hear the prophet, Thomas S. Monson. Something very important that he said that stuck with me was, “morals are definitive, not negotiable.” He was speaking about the demise of morals in society and how so many people push aside the virtues we as mortals have. We hold these virtue sacred not seem them as a commodity. I have so much to teach my children as they get older (arghhh!). Well enough about me, let me talk about my family.
Tim loves his new job with Utopia. He is learning so much about fiber optics. Utopia is very fortunate to have Tim, he is a very intelligent man when it comes to operations, project management, and business relations. I am very proud of him. We works very hard for us.
McCabe is a soccer maniac. He loves to run and spin on the grass. This past game he made 3 goals. I had so much fun cheering for him and the other kids. I am so glad he decided to stay and play his game instead of going home. He had pictures that morning so we got there and then had time to play at the park before his game started. McCabe was on the swings and decided to jump off. As he did so, he landed face down and hit his forehead. There was a nice goose egg bulging on the right side of his forehead. Thank goodness pictures were already done. McCabe was crying saying he wanted to go home and rest. I took him to the local store and got him a drink. That was all he needed to feel like playing soccer.


Jacinda is learning to read and it is a process. I have never seen so many melt downs when it comes to reading. She gets frustrated when she comes to an unknown word. It is hard, but I try to have patience. Besides all the reading required for her homework packet, she has to read 20 minutes each night. Sometimes we make it and sometimes we don’t. She is big into fairy and the magic school bus books. Each night I read a chapter from a fun book and she listens intently. I do enjoy this time I have with my kids.
Xadia is so cute and feisty. She will be 2 on the 10th. Her favorite game at this time is holding my hand and sitting at the top of the stairs and then sliding down. It is permissible for now, but as I get bigger with the baby, I will not be able to play. Xadia is a momma’s girl. She needs me whenever she is doing something like coming from the garage or walking down the stairs. This is her way of saying, “I want to be with you...please stay near me.” I finally recognized it thanks to the older siblings saying they need help getting dressed or into their pajamas (though they have done it by themselves for years).


Sunday, September 18, 2011

Sunday, September 18, 2011

All is well at the Fisher house hold. We are going to have a baby in March. There was no miscarriage only a rupturing cyst. I found some random picture which are so cute so I need to post them.


McCabe is taking soccer this fall. He is having a great time....especially since he learned to kick the ball into the goal. He scored 2 points his first game. I was so proud of him.


Jacinda loves to put on make-up. Here she is all made up...hair, jewerly, and make-up. Doesn't she look gorgeous?



Kids riding the buffalo in the park at McCabe's soccer game.



Ok I must admit I love this picture. We are on our way swimming. McCabe was totally ready with his goggles on and everything. I had to snap a picture but he would not pose so I pretended that I was taking a picture of only Jacinda but I was able to get all three. It makes me laugh every time I see it.


Real quick, here is a funny story. We, the family, went out for milkshakes. Jacinda was trying to blow the paper off her straw but it didn't work. The paper had a hole in it so she blew air in my face. I did the same back to her and we laughed. Then few moments late as I am taking a drink of my ice water I feel this cold splash behind my ear and on the side of my face. McCabe had just blown his milkshake on me. He apologized and said, "I just wanted you to feel the air." He was trying to copy my and Jacinda but did not realize his straw was full of milkshake. It was a great evening.




Monday, September 5, 2011

Monday, Sept. 5, 2011

I know it has been a while since I last wrote on my blog. Just a few things I wanted to mention that happened over the past few weeks. I found out that my friend Brett Harrison has colon cancer. I am hoping for the best for him and his family. Cancer is never easy.
I am very tired and have very little energy. I am 12 weeks pregnant and battling a potential miscarriage. I will find out the results later this week.
I also found out that Earl Banner, dad of Becky Banner passed away this past week. He was a great man. I don’t care what age you are, it always so hard when a parent passes away.
On a brighter note, this morning McCabe came into my bedroom and asked for help putting on an apron. After I tied it, he said, “I am a working man.” He was ready to make some eggs for breakfast. Both of my kids like to help with breakfast. Their big thing is making smoothies. Each day they alternate. It is a little competition between them because they always ask me, “don’t I make the best smoothie?” I am always very careful with my response.
If I have not mentioned this before, I have a gem of a husband. Friday he took the kids on an overnight camping trip. I loved hearing his story. He went through all the motions without all the quality. They did not make it to the camp ground so they found a turn out in the road and set up camp. They quickly put up the tent and then got out the grill and made s’mores where the marshmallow was not even soft but the kids loved it. Then it was off to bed. Xadia was having trouble sleeping so she got in Tim’s sleeping bag. In the morning, the kids woke up early and were freezing so they had to put on their jackets. Tim had to give them a talk about staying in their sleeping bags until it warmed up. They broke down camp and came home and ate breakfast with me. Even though it was a short trip, they had a great time.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Unbelievable...my kids totally surprise me. Jacinda and McCabe both jumped off the high dive at the recreation center today. The board is about 10 feet from the water but when you are standing at the top it looks like you are 22 feet in the air. He has wanted to do it ever since he saw Jacinda jump. Today was McCabe's first day to jump off the board and swim to the edge by himself. When he got out of the pool, the kids in the line were giving high fives and clapping his bravery. One boy asked, "how old are you?" "Four," was McCabe's reply and the boy said, "you are awesome." McCabe had a huge smile and went another 3 times off the diving board. I held my breath every time he jumped. I was always ready on the side to dive in after him just in case he needed some extra help but he was a champ....I am so proud of both of my kids.

Sunday, July 10, 2011

Sunday, July 10, 2011

So much to talk about during the past 2 weeks. It started off with a 15 year high school reunion. There was a very small turnout…..like 20 people, but it was so fun to talk and mingle with everyone and see their kids. It is amazing how people change but still look the same. Some had longer hair, others had gained weight, and others finally bloomed. It was a very enjoyable evening. We had a picnic at Island View Park and then the kids played in the sand near the volley ball net. They built sandcastles and villages with compounds with mines and capitol buildings. I was amazed with the creativity of the older kids. Thanks to Ms. Emily Jex Boyle for arranging such a fun evening.

I am so happy to announce that I passed the 3 year mark of finishing all my cancer treatments. I am still cancer free and lively as ever. It feels sooo good to be healthy and happy. I have changed a little bit since cancer. I feel more care-free and optimistic. I also limit meat and dairy products. These are changes that I hope will help me to have a longer and healthier life.

We are itching to go camping but our schedules are so busy that we cannot squeeze in time. So instead we have mini campfires in our white trash pit on the drive way. We roast hot dogs and marshmallows. We love making a good smore or four. The night ends perfectly with messy faces and smelly campfire clothes.






















I was very busy this past weekend sewing. We will be in a pioneer day parade and only in the state of Utah was the pioneer dress pattern I wanted was out of stock. I got the next best pattern, but Jacinda decided she wanted the colonial dress instead of the pioneer dress. Oh what they hey. So I made the dress she wanted and here is a picture of the final product.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Sunday, June 26, 2011


Being a mom is great. I love this picture. We are at the zoo and there were numerous pictures taken but Xadia refused to look at the camera. She was too busy watching the animals and everything else going on around her.


Summer time is fun. We like to sit on the front porch and watch the sunset while eating ice cream or a popsicle. On this particular evening the kids had chocolate ice cream cones and they were so messy. I am glad they ate outside. Now I need to clean the front steps.




McCabe is so funny. I don't know what is going through his head. He does the most random things. On this particular day he had a fetish for brown bags. He would put them on his head and then do a silly dance and laugh. Of course I think it is adorable so I get the camera and snap a picture....only to encourage the behavior more. McCabe has been busy since school is out. He has learned to ride his bike without training wheels. I am so impressed....he is only 4. He is now trying hard to swim without floaties so that he can jump off the diving boards like his big sister.




Here are my cute daughters. Xadia loves to mimic Jacinda and McCabe. She is wearing McCabe's apron in this picture because McCabe was wearing it earlier to help me cook. Xadia can say a few words like bubbles, momma, daddy, papa, etc....but she mainly relies on her actions to communicate. Her latest thing is clenching her fists and putting them up by her armpits and then grunting. This is how she asks to open something like a granola bar or a bag of chips. It is so funny.


Jacinda is a big help when it comes to her younger siblings. She likes to kiss McCabe on the cheek and give him a big hug. McCabe always pushes Jacinda away but deep down he likes it. And then there is Xadia who is constantly getting attntion from both her siblings. They all do a good job of giving hugs and showing love....I hope that will continue forever. Jacinda has learned to ride her bike without training wheels and has taken a strong liking to swimming. Just yesterday she was jumping off the low and high diving boards. Of course I went first to show her the way and how to do it and I must say that I got a little scared on the high dive. It is frightening when you can see straight to the bottom of the pool 26 feet in the air. Anyways Jacinda did not hesitate. She jumped and jumped and then jumped some more. It was a lot of fun and I am so proud of her. I was not that brave or confident at her age. Way to go girl!

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Sunday, June 12, 2011

School is out and summer is here. We have been busy with swimming lessons, playing at the park, and enjoying the summer lunch program in our community. The weather has been awesome nice and warm but not blistering hot. We have enjoyed the temperature in the low 70’s this past week. Here is a short snippet of what our family has been doing:

Tim has been busy removing the last part of the rocks and planting periwinkle on the back hillside. He is also researching about audio systems and Cat 5 cable.

Sasha has been making a tile medallion for the bathroom and driving kids to and from swim lessons.


Jacinda has been swimming, battling allergies, and watching “Go Dino.” She also has been reviewing her sight words and preparing for first grade.


McCabe has been swimming, watching “Go Dino,” and making pictures out of paper and markers. He also has been trying to learn his letters and sounds to be better prepared for
preschool.


Xadia hangs out with mom, is busy trying on everyone’s shoes, and keeping really messy. She just graduated to wearing a size 2T.

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Sunday, May 22, 2011




Yes it was a busy week with kindergarten testing, birthday parties, and sleep-overs. We even squeezed in planting a garden. The kids got to choose the plants. We ended up with 2 tomato plants, 2 zucchini plants, 1 yellow pepper, and 6 watermelon plants. My kids love watermelon.

I had a learning lesson this past week. My son does not like to be called names. The kids got in trouble and made Tim very upset. Tim told them that they were acting like “poo-poo heads.” McCabe fell apart. He started crying. He was so hurt and for the next 10 minutes he would not let it go. Tim apologized and had a heartfelt talk with McCabe. They resolved the issue and now things are back to normal, but we have learned that name calling can be very powerful and cuts deep.


We were listening to the radio and there was an ad for airfare to China. Jacinda says, "let's move to China." "Why," I asked. "Because the panda bears are so cute." That gave me a good laugh.

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Happy Mother’s to all you wonderful mothers. Today was very low key for me. No big gifts. I did get cereal and toast for breakfast and a wonderful nap. Then Deb Hefner made a fabulous dinner for our family. I love that woman. It was a lovely day to remember mothers. One of the great things I like about my mom is her sense of humor. She was also a great person to talk with because of her experience with life. I sure miss her.

I have to note this before I forget, today I did the unthinkable…I sang a solo in sacrament meeting. Never in my younger years would I do that but my thinking and courage has definitely changed since having cancer. So when Michelle Schmidt asked if I would sing the duet part to “Mother, Tell Me The Stories,” I said sure. I think it went well…after all I did say 3 prayers that I would not be nervous and that I would sing well.

My children are so creative. McCabe found this empty oatmeal box and decided to build a squirrel house. Tim helped him cut a door and McCabe put in a rock and some grass to make it homely. Each day he goes out and checks the box to see if a squirrel is in it.

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Sunday, April 24, 2011

It was a beautiful Easter Day. The weather was perfect, the spiritual element was superb and the children’s excitement for Easter is so much fun. Last night Jacinda left notes all around the house for the Easter Bunny. She wanted to make sure he knew there were kids in this house. We told her that Reese’s peanut butter cups are the Easter’s Bunny favorite candy. So she got six of them and put them on our front stairs leading up to the door. Eventually those treats ended up in the kid’s bags because the Easter Bunny likes to share. The kids were so excited about their treats. It turned out well. We did not go overboard with candy because the kids got so much junk days before Easter.


Easter is a great holiday. I love all the “egg” puns added to words like…egg-specially, egg-xtra, egg-cited. I will probably always think of Ethan and laugh inside for the rest of my life when Easter comes. Just two weeks prior we were in California and my brother-in-law was telling us some of his grammatical pet peeves…like saying “ax” instead of “asked” or “egg-specially” instead of “especially.” Every time I saw an egg pun I thought of him and laughed. Funny how silly things stick with you.

Today I heard a story that deeply touched my heart. The moral to the story is that God wants to give us more riches than we can give to ourselves. We have to decide when to give up the cheap stuff for the real deal. Enjoy the story.


Jenny's Pearl Necklace by: Author Unknown, Source Unknown
The cheerful girl with bouncy golden curls was almost five. Waiting with her mother at the checkout stand, she saw them: a circle of glistening white pearls in a pink foil box.
"Oh please, Mommy. Can I have them? Please, Mommy, please!" Quickly the mother checked the back of the little foil box and then looked back into the pleading blue eyes of her little girl's upturned face.
"A dollar ninety-five. That's almost $2. If you really want them, I'll think of some extra chores for you and in no time you can save enough money to buy them yourself. Your birthday's only a week away and you might get another crisp dollar bill from Grandma." As soon as Jenny got home, she emptied her piggy bank and counted out 17 pennies. After dinner, she did more than her share of chores. She went to the neighbor, Mrs. McJames, and asked if she could pick dandelions for ten cents. On her birthday, Grandma did give her another new dollar bill and at last she had enough money to buy the necklace.
Jenny loved her pearls. They made her feel dressed up and grown up. She wore them everywhere--Sunday school, kindergarten, even to bed. The only time she took them off was when she went swimming or had a bubble bath. Mother had told her that if they got wet, they might turn her neck green.
Jenny had a very loving daddy and every night when she was ready for bed, he would stop whatever he was doing and come upstairs to read her a story. One night when he finished the story, he asked Jenny, "Do you love me?"
"Oh yes, Daddy. You know that I love you."
"Then may I have your pearls?"
"Oh, Daddy, not my pearls. But you can have Princess--the white horse from my collection. The one with the pink tail. Remember, Daddy? The one you gave me. She's my favorite."
"That's okay, honey. Daddy loves you. Good night." And he brushed her cheek with a kiss.
About a week later, after the story time, Jenny's daddy asked again, "Do you love me?"
"Daddy, you know I love you."
"Then will you give me your pearls?"
"Oh, Daddy, not my pearls. But you can have my baby doll. The brand new one I got for my birthday. She is so beautiful and you can have the yellow blanket that matches her sleeper."
"That's okay, Honey. Sleep well. God bless you, little one. Daddy loves you." And as always, he brushed her cheek with a gentle kiss. A few nights later when her daddy came in, Jenny was sitting on her bed with her legs crossed Indian-style. As he came close, he noticed her chin was trembling and one silent tear rolled down her cheek.
"What is it, Jenny? What's the matter?"
Jenny didn't say anything but lifted her little hand up to her daddy. When she opened it, there was her little pearl necklace. With a little quiver, she finally said, "Here, Daddy. It's for you." With tears gathering in his own eyes, Jenny's kind daddy reached out with one hand to take the prized necklace. With the other hand he reached into his pocket and pulled out a blue velvet case. He handed the handsome velvet case to Jenny and told her, "Thank you for giving me your most prized possession that you even saved for all by yourself. Here Honey, I have this for you also. I wanted to trade you, but I was going to give these to you tonight either way."
As Jenny pried open the blue velvet box, so nice a thing itself she'd never known, the glistening white sheen of the rich genuine pearls struck her teary eyes.

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Sunday, April 17, 2011


It seems like the days just merge into the same routine. However, this week there were some variances. I got a phone call from Sara Mumford. It has been years since I heard from her. She found my house by using her deductive skills. Using information from my blog and the pictures from the news. I was pegged. It was fun to get the note she left on my doorstep. I was not home because we were in California. I can rarely think of anything better than hearing the voice of an old friend.

Speaking of old friends, Tim and I were on a date and we went to Iggy’s. When we walked into the restaurant, we were greeted by my childhood friend Natalie Hopkins LaMar and her family. They were kind enough to let us sit with their family. It was so much fun catching up with everyone. Friendships are so important. I now consider the only thing better than hearing the voice of an old friend is seeing one.

Saturday the kids did an egg dive at the Recreation Center. They had such a good time swimming for plastic eggs and then playing the Easter games. They got candy, and more candy, and then sno-cones. So much sugar is going into their little bodies. This month seems to be a never ending one of candy. I do need to mention what Jacinda said about Easter. According to her, Easter is important (in this particular order) for the candy, Jesus, and the eggs. I had to write that down so she can read it in 20 years and laugh.

I love Sundays that are so spiritually rich. Today I had the opportunity to hear from a missionary who is serving in the Bountiful area but is from Slovania. His words were so simply but so powerful. I loved the part of his talk when he said he sincerely asked the Lord….are you there, is there more to life after I die and not just become a pile of ash, and are you my father? The spirit strongly touched me. I am so thankful for his words and the knowledge that Heavenly Father loves each one of his children. He is there we just need to sincerely ask Him and He will reply.

Friday, March 25, 2011

March 25, 2011

So Tim was out of town and that means a green light for projects because he cannot tell me "no." Last time he was out of town, I popped up the tile and lath in the bathroom. This time it was re-doing the wood floors. It took 5 sandings, 4 coats of polyurethane, and 4 trips to Home Depot. It took a lot longer than expected. I had to put Xadia in the back pack while I sanded. Tim did find out about the surprise while he was away because every time he called I was working on it. He was not very happy with me and he told me to not put on the clear coat until he got home. He wanted to make sure it went on consistently. I did wait. We finished the floor together. After I put on the first coat he said the floor looked great and not to listen to him. That was the best apology and compliment I could have received for all the hard work. I sure love that guy.

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Sunday, March 13, 2011






Tuesday, March 2, we had a huge surprise. I was up in my bathroom and the rest of the family was downstairs putting away food storage. Suddenly I heard a loud noise, the room shook, and the lights flickered. I thought a food shelf had fallen. I ran down 2 flights of stairs screaming…”is everyone alright?” When I reached the basement Tim and the kids were busy putting away food. He had not heard the noise but saw the lights flicker. “There was a noise too loud to ignore, something big happened,” I told Tim. He got the flashlight and went to check it out. When he opened the door to the garage he saw dust in the air and debris on the floor. He also noticed a big hole in the side of the wall. I was mortified. There was a boulder the size of a washing machine in our garage. It came off someone’s property bounced across Skyline Drive and rolled down our hill into our garage. It did about $50,000 worth of damage. Now we are trying to get some safety measures put on the above property along with something on Skyline Drive. We are having a hard time because no one wants to take responsibility. However, insurance is being really good to us. At least that is working in our behalf.

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Sunday, February 27, 2011

I don't have much to write about. We did spend the weekend in Ephriam with Rox and family. That was really fun. The kids played well together.

I was asked by a member in our Relief Society to share something I have learned in Relief Society. Ummm that opens up a slew of thoughts. What would you say? I was able to narrow it down to 2 things. The first is that I am surrounded by silent heroes and that gives me inspiration to move forward. One woman in particular is a mother of 6 kids, 2 girls and 4 boys. Three of her children are diabetic and one of them has downs syndrome. I never see her upset or angry. She is always happy and very pleasant. She is my hero that endures with happiness.

The other thing I learned in Relief Society (which was the hardest lesson ever) is how to be a gracious recipient. When I was first diagnosed with cancer and learned that I was going to have chemo treatments, the RS president confronted me and asked if she could have women come into the house and clean while I was receiving my infusions and bring meals for the next few days. I was extremely hesitant and embarassed that efforts were going to be focused on me. I told her no thanks. I thought I could do it myself. Needless to say she did not accept no and after each infusion I came home to a clean house and meals that would last for four days. This was such a relief and a nice surprise especially week after week as the chemicals built up in my system and I was barely able to stay awake for an hour at a time. I didn't like being the "welfare case," but I really needed the help. Later I realized that this is why the RS was established. In D&C I learned that the lord will call upon us and use us to help in ways that will serve others to further His work on earth. Literally these women were hands of Heaven on earth. I think it is always easier to be the giver, but being the recepient made me realize that people receive blessings by serving. It is not fair to deny them the blessings when you really need the help and support. The Lord knows me well and he sent his saints to help me. Somebody once said, "If you deny the gift, you deny the giver." I am so grateful for a loving and giving Heavenly Father.

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Sunday, Feb 20, 2011

I am finally back in a routine of things. But before I show my pictures of Hawaii I have to share new inspirational quote. I have a few that I really love like....Don't let anything get you down unless it gets you down on your knees (anon). Or, it is nice to be important, but more important to be nice (mormon ad). Or, that which is beautiful is not always good, but that which is good is always beautiful (author unknown). My new favorite inspirational quote is: "The Lord wants to guide your steps but he can't if you are not taking any." (Pres. Maybe) This is just so applicable to me at this stage in life. But what can I say, I always need the Lord so I guess it will be my
favorite for always.


This is Hananuma Bay. It is absolutely gorgeous and a fun place to snorkel. The fish treat you like another fish. They are not scared in the least bit. You could reach out and touch them....if you wanted to break the rules. Before snorkeling we had to watch a 15 minute video on not touching the marine life because it can result in damaging the habitat. Anyways it was a lot of fun but...take you own snorkeling gear. We rented and the equipment was very worn. I could not go 20 seconds without getting salt water in my mouth. Fortunately we snorkeled again at a different beach and the equipment was much better. We saw lots of sea cucumbers and a sea turtle (that was very cool). It made my trip. After snorkeling, we got in a kayak and paddled our way in the ocean to a bird sanctuary island. It was more like a giant. Unfortunately we only saw one bird because it was off season, however, walking on the rock was like walking on a giant trabecular bone.


The fish like the people. Here are a lot of fish begging for food from the visitors.


This is a statue of Duke Kahanamoku at Waikiki Beach, Oahu. This guy was pretty amazing. He was a Hawaiian swimmer, actor, lawman, beach volleyball early player and businessman credited with spreading the sport of surfing.[1] He was a five-time Olympic medalist in swimming. He even once saved 6 sailors from a cap-sized boat with his surf board. I love amazing people like this.


Here's something you don't see everyday....2 monkeys with a banana tree.

Behind us is Akaka falls. It was so beautiful to walk around and see the lush plant life near the falls. As I walked, I saw the beautiful red flower in the next picture. When I looked closer....I noticed a little gecko resting on top. Oh yes....Hawaii is fun.


Here is a pineapple growing at the Dole plantation. Really neat tour. Dole supplies 2/3 of the world's pineapple. I can't believe they crank out that much pineapple to the rest of the world....especially since pineapple takes like 16 months to become edible. It was great to see all the pineapple concoctions. However, I did not care for the chocolate covered pineapple. Some fruits do not go well with chocolate and this is one of them.

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Just got back from Hawaii this morning. Tim and I had a blast. My sister, Mimi watched the kids. (She is a saint and I owe her big.) We went all over Oahu and island hopped to Hawaii where we visited the cities of Kona and Hilo. Our days were filled with snorkeling, visiting places (i.e. Dole plantation, Pearl Harbor, and the Polynesian Culture Center) kayaking, hiking, and going to shows. It was a lot of fun but I am super tired. The jet lag has gotten the best of me. Once my pictures are organized, I will post some.

Sunday, January 30, 2011

Sunday, January 30, 2011


Happy birthday dad (on 1/25) can't believe you hit the big 73!

I love the cute stuff my kids do. This past week we were all in the car when all of a sudden Jacinda starts singing, “the golden plates lay hidden deep in a mountain….” And then McCabe says, “side.” I got a huge smile on my face. I am so happy my kids are learning the primary songs. It is so fun to sing with them. In fact there is this movie Scooby-Doo Camp Scare that McCabe loves to watch. I really like the opening song on it. One time while the song was playing Mac said, “mom sing with it.” I sang two words….”summer time,” and then he tells me to stop singing. I laughed because he is just as fickle as me. But at least I got in my two words (he he!).

Tim and I got to go on a date this past week to the temple. I have to prepare my kids (mainly McCabe) hours if not days in advance for the parental separation. I told McCabe I am going to the temple. He asked why and I said, “because I am going on a date with daddy.” He looks at me in disgust and says, “that’s not a date,” “oh really….then what is a date?” “Well it is when you go to the swimming pool and you take us. That is a date.” Needless to say, we did not do Mac’s definition of a date.

Xadia is starting to understand more and more. Our little thing right now is to say, “put your hands up their playing our song….party in the USA,” and then she will lift up her arms and pump them. It is so cute. She spent the day in nursery and when I came to get her she put her arms up and ran to me. Gave me a big hug and then ran back to the teacher squealing because sister Chavez was blowing bubbles. There is just no way I could compete with the bubbles.

This past weekend Tim removed the vanity and toilet from the downstairs bathroom. We are updating it into the 2011 decade. I spent last week popping up tile. I know it sounds crazy but I love to tile. I am so excited. I already have the tile and vanity selected. Now we just need to remove the existing lath and before you know it we will have a new bathroom.

There is nothing more magical than spending time with the ones you love.

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Sunday, January 16, 2011


Rasmussen's visiting over christmas


Big smiles from McCabe and Jacinda.

It has only been a month since my last post and I finally have a handle on life. I am back into my normal routine. Christmas was fun. For the first time since mom died (6 years ago) the family was all together. Unfortunately I could not find my camera when it came time to take pictures (arrrgh!). Hopefully someone will send me a copy. I know a lot of the nieces were taking my camera and shooting pictures. At least I have the mental memories.

Christmas is always such a fun time. This year, I could not think of anything I really wanted or needed, however, Tim gave me the ultimate surprise…..a mini me of himself. It is called the perfect man. When you squeeze his hand it says things like….”can we spend the holidays with your family this year?” or “Gee honey you don’t need any make-up you look beautiful the way you are.” This doll gave me some good laughs. I think it is really great that Tim went to the extent of finding it for me. I sure love that man.

Our latest past time favorite is going swimming. We got a membership to the Recreation Center and the kids love to play in the water. Even Xadia has her favorite thing to do there. She likes to go down the kiddy slides feet first and on her tummy. It is perfectly designed for our type of family. However, the other day while at the pool I saw this girl with a scar on her chest. I knew immediately what it was from and went over and asked her if she had cancer. She looked at me puzzled and said, “yes, how did you know?” I could tell by the port catheter scar. As I talked to her, I found out that her name is Kelli Duran and she had Hodgkin’s lymphoma 1.5 years ago. It was really neat to talk with her. She is such a hero in my eyes. She is a young mother who battled cancer and won. That is pretty fantastic.