Tim, Sasha & Family

Sunday, February 12, 2012

2012-02-12T19:58:00.001-08:00

As I think about this past week not much comes to mind. Maybe as I start typing thoughts will occur. I was able to go out with my sisters, Natalie, Roxanne, and Mimi to celebrate Roxanne’s birthday. We ate at the Olive Garden in American Fork and like a scatter brain I forgot to take a picture. But I did enjoy the food and company. My sisters are really fun and crazy. It is amazing how different we are and that we all get along. The funniest part about this get together was that Mimi and Natalie (who were driving together) spent an hour trying to find the restaurant and they were the closest ones to it. It should have only taken them 30 minutes. Roxanne and I waited in the foyer and laughed as we got calls from Natalie asking what exit to take. Then when they get to the restaurant, Natalie finds out that there is a “get directions” button on her ipad. She had been looking at the map the whole time thinking it would be an easy exit off the freeway. It was hilarious and one of those, “gee I look stupid,” moments.

I am now 35 weeks pregnant. I have gained 30 pounds and was going to post a picture but my camera is downstairs and I am too tired and in pain to get it. I have a bundle of nerves in my lower back that constantly feels pressed. I am really looking forward to the epidural and having this baby. So the pain will be alleviated. I also am suffering from sore feet. On the way home from church Tim was saying how it doesn’t matter if we have another one or 10 kids because we already have 3. He says bring them on. I looked at him like he was ridiculous and informed him that there is more to raising kids than just providing food and a home. I also asked if he was planning to stay home and raise the kids while I went and worked. He is just voicing his sadness because this is our last child. Our focus will be on raising children and not having them.

We made valentine cookies today. Without fail McCabe and Xadia will lick the knives. It does not matter how many times I tell them that they cannot lick the frosting off the knives until they are finished with decorating the cookies. So each time I catch them, I make them get a new knife. Sure enough Mac had to get another knife and Xadia, well I lost count with her.

Today the secret got out. Jacinda told Tim that she will wear the same pair of socks many days in a row. Now I know why her feet stink. I could not understand why a 7-year-old had such rank smelling feet….well now I know. So we had a little talk about the importance of changing our socks daily and how that shows Heavenly Father that we take care of our bodies. Her response was, “I did not know.” No problem child. That is why you are here on this earth…to learn and we (Tim and I) are trying our best to teach you.

Sunday, February 5, 2012

2012-02-05T18:36:00.000-08:00

It is time to kick off another week. Over the weekend we got to celebrate McCabe’s 5th birthday. We had a fun little party but I tell you what…..that kid has Mario Brothers on the brain. He asks at least 4 or 5 times a day to play the wii. Tonight as I was putting him in bed he was crying because yesterday, when playing Mario Brothers, Jacinda got fire power and he wanted it. It was a kick to watch them play. Jacinda and McCabe do not stand still. They are constantly lifting their legs, jumping, or moving their arms en route with their characters. It kind of reminds me of myself when I played the Nintendo. Tim got the fine opportunity to play with them. One particular level the kids let Tim do all the work while they bubbled themselves to his character. Poor Tim, he kept dying and then to make it worse, McCabe would use his character to pick up Tim’s character and throw him off the ledges so he would die and then laugh about it. I just gladly sat back and played with Xadia.
Last week was New Beginnings for Young Women’s. A young gal, Annie Schmidt said something profound as she talked about the value of good works. I wanted to write it down before I forgot. She said, “if you don’t get up and do a good work, you could be avoiding an answer to someone’s prayer.” I just love that thought. We are told in the scriptures that we are God’s helpers and it is through us that he answers the prayers of others. It makes me think about how important I am especially when I have those days where I am feeling down in the dumps.
In church we had a lesson on the joys of life. One of my joys in life is being a mom. Kids can be the biggest trials but also give me the greatest joy. Today at the breakfast table McCabe made me speechless and left a big smile on my face. Tim was teasing him saying we are not going to feed him anymore so he won’t grow. McCabe said to Tim, “Dad, I have to grow and get big.” “Why,” asks Tim. “So that I can go on a mission,” was McCabe’s reply. I sat there with a huge smile. My son who just turned 5 is realizing the importance of teaching Christ to others. Now that brings me great joy.

Sunday, January 22, 2012

2012-01-22T22:06:00.001-08:00

Saturday brought a huge snow storm. This totally voiced our thoughts of being a nice sunny winter’s day. Friday was gorgeous, but Saturday late afternoon was cold and snowy. There was a time during the day where I had to go get Tim because he was stranded on the side of the road. It snowed for hours in fact, later that day, we got a call from the police that we had to get our stranded car because it was in the way. After putting chains on the suburban, we went to get our car. Upon arrival, there was a truck perpendicular to our car. I was so worried that it has been hit, but thankfully the truck barely missed it. Now we had to move the car so the truck could get out. Fortunately we had a tow rope and we were able to pull the car home. Many cars had accidents that day.

Poor Xadia was sick on Saturday. I kept giving her medicine and Sunday morning she seemed much better. Unfortunately, Tim and I are sick. We have some sort of sinus infection. Tim gets to take medicine. I have to wait it out due to the pregnancy. Fortunately I got a nap to help with the recovery. Tim made a cute comment. He said, “it sucks being sick, I can’t imagine being pregnant on top of that.” That comment made me feel a little better. I am so glad he supports me especially with this pregnancy. Only eight more weeks and we still don’t have a name. I would love to have a name so we don’t have to keep calling him “baby.”

Saturday, January 14, 2012

2012-01-14T21:39:00.000-08:00

We had a lot of fun this past week. Amy and Ethan and their family came and visited for a few days. Their kids got to see snow for the first time. They went sledding and built an igloo. They also froze as they played in the snow without proper snow gear, but nothing that hot chocolate could not fix.

We also did the temple square visit. It was so much fun. The kids had a great time in the church history museum playing with the interactive displays of the book of Mormon. They danced like people in South America, fished liked Nephi’s family, and built homes out of huge cushions that resembled a pueblo house.

We visited the beehive house which was fabulous. I don’t think I could ever get tired of touring that place. I love hearing stories about the pioneers and seeing their way of life. The furnishings of the home were absolutely beautiful….the furniture, the curtains, and knick knacks that decorated the rooms.

We also had the opportunity to visit the Humanitarian center for the LDS church….wow! what an incredible program. If you have never been there….go and have a tour. It makes you so grateful to be living in the U.S. and opens your mind to the real needs of the rest of the world. I love the fact that they help anybody no matter what the race or religion because that person is a child of God. After our visit, we decided as a family to raise money for the wheel chair fund. We want to see someone on the other side of the world get a wheel chair so they don’t need to drag themselves around on their arms the rest of their lives.

Monday evening we got to do family night for the residents at the South Davis Community Hospital which is a nursing home. Tim did a great job planning the activity. He talked about having courage, believing in yourself, and having a good attitude. The kids sang a few songs and made pictures for the residents. It was very touching. We left feeling very warm and happy. A good deed was done and the service given made us feel over-joyed.

Thursday, December 29, 2011

2011-12-29T16:36:00.000-08:00

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

2011-12-08T10:17:00.000-08:00

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

2011-11-20T19:59:00.000-08:00

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

2011-11-06T13:22:00.001-08:00

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

2011-10-23T21:42:00.000-07:00

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

2011-10-02T14:28:00.001-07:00

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

2011-09-18T21:35:00.000-07:00

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, Sept. 5, 2011

2011-09-05T09:05:00.001-07:00

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

2011-08-16T22:19:00.000-07:00

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

2011-07-10T21:23:00.001-07:00

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

2011-06-26T22:11:00.000-07:00

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

2011-06-12T22:42:00.001-07:00

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

2011-05-22T21:44:00.000-07:00

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

2011-05-08T21:29:00.000-07:00

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

2011-04-24T19:13:00.000-07:00

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

2011-04-17T22:13:00.001-07:00

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.

March 25, 2011

2011-03-25T22:00:00.000-07:00

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

2011-03-13T21:13:00.001-07:00

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

2011-02-27T19:57:00.000-08:00

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, Feb 20, 2011

2011-02-20T21:15:00.000-08:00

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

2011-02-13T21:57:00.000-08:00

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

2011-01-30T20:27:00.000-08:00

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

2011-01-16T13:27:00.000-08:00

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.

Sunday, December 19, 2010

2010-12-19T20:38:00.000-08:00

I feel like there is not much to write about but I will find something. My kids are out of school for the Christmas break and I am very busy making goodie plates for the neighbors. Tim and the kids are eating the candy faster than I can make it. I guess I need to find a recipe that they don’t like.

McCabe had a school performance at a local care facility. He was a little shy and so I got to stand next to him and sing. Miss Staci helped him with his joke…”what does a cat on the beach have in common with Christmas?” “Sandy Claus.” It was cute to see the older people laugh. Some enjoyed the performance others slept through it. I got to visit with a resident name Carol (I did not catch her last name). For the most part she was upbeat but said that she relies a lot on her memories to keep her company. I was a little sad with her reality. I keep thinking that it will be great to be old. I can see my grandchildren and reflect on life and share it with the younger generation. I guess it will be a reality check when I get there.

Xadia is starting to call me mom (I love that). She is at a cute stage. Tim likes to play “alligator and monkey” with the kids. This is a game where he chases the kids and they run away. Xadia likes to play. She does not stand a chance but Tim is really good with her and she giggles and tries to run as Tim makes animal noises behind her.

That is it for now. I am really tired. This holiday season has got me running and I need a rest.

Thursday, December 9, 2010

2010-12-09T10:09:00.001-08:00

Snowy sunset from our house

Thanksgiving with Gigi trying to give Papa bunny ears.

The Fisher Family

So much has happened since the last posting. We went to Vegas and California for Thanksgiving. It was really fun to see the relatives. I got a good smile out of my dad and Gigi (his wife). It was fun to watch them interact. I have to commend them. They are raising Gigi’s 10-year-old great nephew, Michael and taking foster parent to foster an additional child so Michael can have a sibling. Good for them. I don’t think I could do that at 72.

California was fun, fun, fun. We did a lot of baking (of course) for thanksgiving. I made my grandma Nalder’s jello rainbow salad with the green, white, and red layers. It was so yummy. It has always been a favorite of mine. I remember as a child always requesting that dish as part of my birthday meal. Ethan’s dad works at an orchard and we got to pick apples. I have never tasted a better granny smith apple in my life. I brought home a boxful and enjoying each one. We visited lots of relatives and had 2 movie nights where we got out the pillows and blankets and enjoyed lots of yummy treats. I finally saw “How to Train Your Dragon,” and the new “Christmas Carol” with Jim Carrey. I really liked the dragon movie it was super cute. The Christmas Carol was…well let me just say I enjoyed watching the making of the movie more than the actual movie.

The kids all played so well together. Lowen, Amy’s baby (16 months) was walking and Xadia decided she should try it full time. So now Xadia walks and when entering a room says, “hi.” It makes me laugh because she is so adorable. Lowen and Xadia liked to play the hugging game. Xadia would fuss, Lowen would run over and hug her. That would make Xadia stop. As soon as Lowen walked away, Xadia would start fussing again. So Lowen would run back over and hug her. It was so funny to watch them do this 4 different times.

McCabe, Lance, and Kade were one ball of wrestling boys. They would taunt and tease each other and then start wrestling then Uncle Tim would join and the house got loud and crazy. It was awesome.

Jacinda and Soli played dolls, did crafts, and colored. They were very busy doing their own activities. Whenever I go to the Stubbs, I rarely need to entertain my kids. They are so distracted with all the kids and activities….I love it. It gives Amy and I a time to catch up and talk.

As the week of Thanksgiving ended I was sick. Towards the end of the trip I lost my voice, had a terrible headache, and suffered from chills, most likely a result of a bad cold and bronchitis. I am doing much better now.

The month of December rocks! It has brought a bunch of snow and is very busy with church activities, weddings, and birthdays. This Sunday, Jacinda turns 6!!!! Whoa….when did all this happen? She is so big and such a pre-teen. She is telling me what she wants to do for her birthday party. McCabe is feeling the birthday spirit and started making his birthday invitations (by scribbling on paper and putting it in an envelope) even though he has 2.5 months before his special day. It is really fun being a mom and watching the magic emanate from my children. They give me a constant smile.

Monday, November 8, 2010

2010-11-08T21:18:00.000-08:00

Saturday was absolutely beautiful. It was 71 degrees with clouds in the sky. We spent it outside at the Tracy Aviary. The kids loved the birds and Jacinda got her wish, a peacock with his tail feathers spreaded. She kept telling us that the blue peacocks were the girls and the brown ones were the boys. No matter what we said, we could not convience her otherwise. Someday she will learn and laugh when she reads this posting. Just remember honey, that the male peacocks spread their tail feathers to impress the girls.

The laughing kookaburras were a riot. There was about 7 of them and they sat quielty on their perch utnil Tim Fisher came along. He whipped out his phone, youtubed the sound of a kookaburr. Then played the sound for the birds and they went crazy flapping and making noise. A bunch of people came over to see the commotion and started laughing when they saw what Tim was doing with his phone. The man is brillant. Tim can liven any situation with his phone and internet. (I just love it!)

Sun in our eyes and smiling. Sasha, Xadia, and Jacinda

Tim, McCabe and Jacinda posing as birds.

Peacocks shaking their tail feathers for the ladies.

I had to take a picture of Tim. This is classic, when I want him to be serious he is seriously entertaining.

I love McCabe's face in this picture. He looks very excited.

Condor McCabe

Condor Jacinda.

Sunday, October 31, 2010

2010-10-31T20:54:00.000-07:00

Last week Jacinda took a dance class from the Bountiful High Mandonelles. She got to perform during the half time of the football game. It was so cute. She wore her costume and had a great time dancing. I was filming it and kept laughing because her hat kept falling over her eyes and she could not move it because she was holding hands with the other dancers. She tried diligently to move it. Over all it was a cute performance and very entertaining.

I had to take a picture of Jacinda sleeping with all her stuffed animals at her side. She claims that they are her "babies" and puts them to bed when it is time for her to go to sleep. Too precious!

My cute kids after a night of trick or treating.

Lots on fun on Halloween! Yes it was a down pour of rain and our sacrifice resulted in lots of candy. Today, McCabe wanted to hand out his candy to his friends. He took some to church for his class and visited Carly Christiansen home to give her a treat. Every time I turn around Jacinda and McCabe are eating some sort of treat. I had to put down my foot because Jacinda would not eat her dinner. She begged me for a Kit Kat but I kept telling her “no.” Finally she said, “I want to eat my dinner. Let me eat my dinner.” Wow! It is amazing what kids promise to do for a piece of candy.

So what do parents do when the check on their sleeping kids and find a plastic bug on the floor? They put it on their kids, laugh, and take pictures. I know…cheap entertainment.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

2010-10-17T20:57:00.001-07:00

Can I start with a complaint? I had to go to the DMV 3 times in one day. I could not believe it. The new law that was passed years ago made it so you had to show your social security card, birth certificate, proof of residency, and in my case married. I went the first time and did not have my social security card or birth certificate. No big deal, just a 12 minute drive back to Bountiful. I got the requested info and then I was back on my way. When I got to the DMV, I gave the lady my paperwork. She asked me for my marriage license….”uh that was not originally requested,” was my reply. “I know, but your social security card does not match the name on your birth certificate,” was her response. Arggg! I was fuming. So once again I had to go back home get my marriage license and return. Needless to say I finally got my license. I am glad it will take a few before it expires. I do not plan to visit the DMV any time soon.

This past weekend we went to Wheeler historic farm. I had not been there in over 2 decades. It was so neat to see the animals and different farm houses. While there I came to the conclusion that I would have perished early in pioneer life. I am not as tough as my ancestors. I rely way too much on my modern conveniences. However, we did enjoy a tractor ride, walking through the corn maze, and picking pumpkins to take home.

Sasha, McCabe, and Jacinda by a plow.

McCabe, Sasha, Jacinda, Tim, and Xadia

Hayden Nippert and McCabe at Wheeler Farm

Fall is my absolute favorite time of the year. I took some pictures of the beautiful colors that surround me. The reds are so bright and the yellows are so vibrant. I am so glad God made things like this for personal enjoyment.

Trees in Mueller Park

So as my kids are getting older and able to understand more, I am trying to be a proactive mother in teaching them different areas of life. I have a weekly calendar of events. Mondays are chore/work days. Tuesdays are craft days and this past week we made magnets. Wednesdays are cooking days and we made Russian tea cakes. The kids loved playing in the powder sugar. It was all over their fingers and mouths. Thursdays are activity/learning days. We learned about volcanoes and made one. We had it erupt using vinegar, red food coloring, and baking powder. Jacinda thought that was the coolest thing she had ever seen. Fridays are library days. Unfortunately we did not make it to the library. We had a rough morning. It started out with bath time but Xadia made a mess in the tub so the older kids took a shower. I asked them to get dressed immediately after getting out of the shower. They decided instead to play in their fort. They accidently bonked heads and Jacinda got a bloody nose and a headache. She laid on the bed resting for the next hour and half. Time got away and we had to get some filing cabinets. So the library will wait until this Friday.

Jacinda and McCabe

Tim and Xadia

Sunday, October 10, 2010

2010-10-10T20:17:00.001-07:00

Today is a pretty neat date 10/10/10 and it is Xadia’s first birthday. We celebrated yesterday with family. The cousins came and we enjoyed a Mexican meal and yummy cake and ice cream. Xadia devoured her cake. I love how she got chocolate all over her face.

Mimi, Sasha, and Nana Hefner

McCabe, Quinten Johnson, Jacinda, Vaughn and Clark Johnson waiting for some cake.

Birthday girl Xadia eating her cake.

Birthday girl getting a bath.

Sunday, October 3, 2010

2010-10-03T21:06:00.000-07:00

Ok so it has been forever since I last wrote on my blog but I have a good excuse….moving is time consuming. I feel like we are all moved in and on a schedule. However, yesterday was my birthday and since my battle with cancer birthdays are soooooooo special to me. (Thanks to all those who wished me a happy birthday.) It started with flowers and cinnamon rolls for breakfast. Then it was off to a well needed massage and then surprised with a box of mindy mints from Mrs. Cavanaugh’s chocolates (yummy!). The kids were begging me to open the box of chocolates in the car on the way home from the massage. They totally wanted to devour my birthday present. Ok I did cave because part of having a great birthday is sharing with others.

The afternoon was filled with work. I finished painting the cabinets and then helped Tim and the kids paint the columns in the front. I love the kids willingness to help but I had to scrape off their work and re-do it. They had globs of paint dripping down the columns onto the porch. What should have taken 30 minutes turned into 60 minutes (love it!!!). We finished just in time to hear conference. Wow!! I love the messages given. They are so needed. However, I must admit I feel overwhelmed as a parent because I have a huge responsibility to teach my children the gospel and raise them in love. I admit I get short with them but I need to stay focus. I am glad Heavenly Father has the apostles speak to remind me of my sacred duty as a mother.

I love being in Utah because the fall season is bringing gorgeous colors to the moutains. The mountains are filled with red, orange, and yellow leaves. It is absolutely beautiful. I will get a picture and post it. We do a lot of hikes. Jacinda and McCabe like to find a walking stick and look at everything on the trail. Jacinda is really good at spotting snakes. Today she saw one taking a nap in a dry creek bed.

Jacinda is getting really big. This year she will be six. She loves kindergarten and is very creative. Her latest kick is making octopus hands and rock drawings. In fact we went to a missionary re-union to see some of the elders we previously housed in Washington. Left to her own devices, Jacinda made 2 gifts and gave the rock drawing to Kelly Kemp and the octopus hand (filled with cotton balls) to Oakley Nelson. Both boys were very generous and thanked Jacinda for their gifts. She was beaming.

Picture rock (has a frog catching a fly with its tongue) and octopus hand done by Jacinda

(She likes it....she really likes it! Just a little blast from the past with the life cereal commericials)

Xadia is getting really close to walking. She will stand for a few seconds and then fall. It is very typical for her to pull herself up and hold the cabinets as she walks. Next Sunday is her first birthday. She is a cutie.

My happy Xadia

Sunday, September 12, 2010

2010-09-12T21:29:00.000-07:00

We are finally settled into our new home. The past two weeks have been crazy with getting our Longview housed packed and then unpacking in our new house. We are set next to Wasatch forest property under the “B” in Bountiful. It is very dry here (I forgot about that). The weather is very enjoyable as it heads into autumn. I have been busy cleaning our new home and fighting a little sickness. The second day in Utah I got laryngitis and an annoying cough. I think I am at the tail end of things (thank goodness). The first project was tiling a bathroom sink and painting the cabinet part black. I really like how it turned out. It took it from the nineties and brought it up to date. The second project was making curtains for the 14 foot windows. I will take a picture of that when I am finished. I am still waiting for my special order fabric to arrive.

Tim has been super busy with building shelves in the garage and chasing a mountain wood-rat. This wood-rat looks like a cross between a rat and a squirrel. Our house had been vacant for 4 years and this rodent moved into our bathroom duct sometime within those 4 years. Well Tim got on the job of catching that critter. It was a riot to watch my husband devise strategies to get the wood-rat. He set out rat traps, glue traps, and had a BB gun next to the back door. Well to make a long story short, after a night of watching for it and waking me up at 6:00 am, let me just say that the glue trap and 12 fatal shots did the trick.

Mountain wood rat and a little mouse in the glue trap

Look at the size of that thing!!

Awe....sweet victory!

Since the move, Jacinda has started school. She has Ms. Holbrook and loves kindergarten. She begs me to walk to school but we live 1.3 miles away so I will drive the majority of the route and then we will walk the rest of the way. It is so funny how she will hold my hand and pull me out of sheer excitement for school. I hope that motivation will stay with her for a very long time. I recall a time in 3rd grade when I decided to drop out of school when I got to high school. Funny how we change our minds and end up shifting into over drive.

Jacinda's first day of kindergarten

McCabe likes our street because he can ride his bike on the sidewalks. Every day he says to me, “I know, you walk baby and I ride my bike…how about that?” It is quite enjoyable to walk up and down the street. At the one end is a fantastic view of the temple and valley. I feel like I am standing on top of the world.

I wanted to share a little insight. Last week in church we talked about Job and the trials he faced. At the end of class I had a thought that summed up the discussion. I learned that to the faithful, trials are bonding moments with the lord. I can testify to that in my own personal life. It seems that I draw closer to the lord when life gets a little more difficult.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

2010-08-22T22:25:00.000-07:00

Here are some random pictures.

Tim, Xadia, McCabe, with Brinton, Preston, and Kate Squire posing for a picture by the giant squirrel. Only in Longview will you find a shrine built to squirrels. There is also a bridge for them to cross the street.

McCabe pleading with me not to take his picture. Sorry bud! I could not resist. You look so cute in your goggles and swim shorts.

Love this picture! Here are my 3 babies. They all decided to put on a diaper and crawl on the floor to be like Xadia.

My baby chomper. Look at those teeth!

Who can resist a game of airplane? Each child takes his/her turn. I am glad that Tim is very careful with the kids.

The flavor of this week is bittersweet. The word is out that we are moving to Bountiful Utah. I am excited about the change and happy to return to Utah but at the same time sad to say goodbye to the friends and family here in Longview Washington. There is not a day that passes without a headache. The children don’t quite understand but they are showing excitement for the move.

I have started packing and it is taking a long time. Come to think about it I am packing for 3 kids who cannot pack for themselves. I can’t believe how much stress goes with moving. This move is by far the most stressful (and we have moved 4 times). Trying to get the house sold, packing the house, and dealing with kids wears me down very quickly. At the moment, I am in the recliner listening to hymns while Xadia is upstairs in her crib crying. I need to get her but I am so tired, fortunately Tim just stepped in and is taking care of her. I am so grateful for his help.

This past week I ran into something strange. There was an article on yahoo about people who earn 6 figures by posting videos on youtube. The article gave the top 10 gross earners along with their sites. I watched a clip from the #1 and #10 top earners. I was disgusted. They were supposed to be comedy skits but I found them vulgar and demoralizing. There was a lot of cursing and references to genitals. It was uninspiring and sad to see that this is how part of society gets its thrills and entertainment.

Sunday, August 8, 2010

2010-08-08T20:39:00.001-07:00

Wow, I can’t believe how tired I am. Summer has been packed with activities. We just finished with swimming lessons. I had to withdraw McCabe because he would not get in the water unless I was next to him. After the second lesson, I went to the front desk with soaking wet pants and asked for a refund. The YMCA was very nice and gave me a full refund. Jacinda is a different story. She loved her swimming lessons. By the end of the second week, she was able to swim the length of the pool all by herself. I am very proud of her.

This past week the squires (my sister and her family) came to visit. We went to the park, the river, and fixed our playground toy while they were here. McCabe and Brinton were so cute. They were best buds. Brinton asked if McCabe could come to his house and then would put his arm around his shoulder. McCabe would say, “yes, I will come.” And then put his arm around Brinton. Love these young boys.

Sunday, July 18, 2010

2010-07-18T21:15:00.000-07:00

It has been a month since my last posting and we have been up to a lot of fun. We spent a week in Bend Oregon. Tim was working and the kids and I went bike riding, swimming, and bouncing (in the bounce houses). It was really hot. I got burned on my arms from all the bike riding.

I tried to teach Jacinda to ride without training wheels. She did a good job in the beginning and then got super frustrated. After about 30 minutes she decided it was too early to ride without training wheels. I hope she is not scarred and will be willing to try again soon.

Picture of Mt. Bachelor from our porch

Bend Oregon is really beautiful and very accommodating to tourists. We stayed at Sun River. The views were incredible. One night while sitting on the porch, a blue jay landed on the railing just feet in front of us. Jacinda put out some peanuts and the bird would pick them up and hide them in the grass. We were so enthralled with the bird that we started putting out other food like chips and crackers. Late that night, a momma raccoon came and got some of the chips. Tim took some pictures and she did not get spooked. I guess she is comfortable around humans.

After Oregon, we spent the next 2 weeks in California. Let me just say it was a busy vacation. The second day there, McCabe splits open his chin. He smacked it on the edge of the pool. He got liquid stitches but a week later he slipped getting down from the table and smacked his chin on the edge. This time he got the needle and thread stitches. Good thing he is a tough guy. He spent most of the trip with a bandage over his chin. I had a hard time looking at the wound. In fact, the night it happened, I had to leave the house because I was on the verge of passing out while crying. I am much better now and the cut is healing nicely.

McCabe with a bandage on his chin.

While in California, we went sailing at Lake Perris on Ethan’s catamaran. It was so much fun. Every evening Ethan would come home and say, “it is a perfect day to go sailing.” He loves being captain of the “sailsman.” While at Lake Perris, Xadia had time to taste a few sea shells. She loved sitting in the sand just far enough for the water to touch her toes and shells to be at her fingertips. Jacinda and McCabe were busy playing with their cousins. I was watching the kids while Tim was sailing. It was a perfect day.

The "Sailsman"

Xadia tasting the shells.

Tim and Sasha at Lake Perris

While in California, we also went to the beach. It was an overcast day (bummer) but the waves were calling and everybody was ready to have some fun. The water was cold and the waves were high….I have never seen waves that tall before. I am guessing they were about eight feet. To be honest, I was a little scared for my kids to go into the ocean with such massive waves. Thank goodness they stayed away from the deep and an adult was always with them. Tim taught them how to boogie board. Here are some cute pictures.

McCabe Boogie boarding

Jacinda Boogie boarding

The fourth of July was a blast (no pun intended). Amy and I made some goodies…moose munch popcorn and peanutbutter stuff to take to Redlands University to watch the fireworks. We met Tim’s side of the family. There were cousins and conversations everywhere. Lots of people gather for this show. We were there 3 hours early to get a spot. The show started with some parachutes and then some fighter planes flying over head. The fireworks were huge and Xadia did really well considering this is her first time seeing them and they were super loud. I am also very proud of McCabe. The past few 4th of July’s we would stay inside because he was so afraid of the noise. This past holiday he faced the fireworks like a champ.

By the time our trip came to a close, Jacinda was swimming without floaties, I had ruined one of Amy’s strollers(….accidently left it behind a car and it got hit), Xadia learned a normal crawl instead of an army crawl, and the kids saw were Tim and I lived as newlyweds. It was a fun vacation but I was ready to come home. I had to catch up on sleep and rest from my vacation. It is so good to be home.

Xadia doing her army crawl.

Jacinda and Tim

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T20:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to the hottest man I know.

Sunday, June 20, 2010

2010-06-20T20:00:00.001-07:00

We just celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary and I can honestly say that marriage is fantastic. It is amazing how two people mesh into one. One in motivation, focus, developing and thinking. I swear we have been together so long now that at times we know what each other is thinking. It is so fun to see how far we have come since the first few years. There are things that show my influence in Tim and vice verse. One example is Tim being health conscious and exercising. He has become somewhat picky with food......his taste standards have been raised. Something about me is that I am more relaxed and will crack a "Tim" joke ever so often and love to watch Marx Brother's movies.

So how did we celebrate our anniversary??? Our babysitter canceled so we took the family out to eat at Applebee’s and then watched funny home videos. It was a fun evening. The kids were good. But I could not get them to sit still for a picture hence the blur. What a great anniversary….Love you baby….thanks for all the great times. I look forward to many more.

Sunday, June 6, 2010

2010-06-06T21:52:00.000-07:00

We have lots of fun here in the Fisher household. Take a look at we have been doing. Jacinda loves to put on make-up. She loves it so much that she wants to share with everyone. McCabe seems to be a willing participant. I had to sneak a few pictures because these days will be gone all too quickly. I love how Jacinda crosses her legs and gets so involved with putting color on her face. Once she is finished, they both look like they are ready for the circus. Judge for yourself.

Jacinda the clown.

McCabe the clown.

Jacinda crosses her leg as she perfects her powder/blush.

Mac is wondering if the eyeliner makes him look too much like Boy George?

Memorial day was fun…..we made kabobs. They were yummy! We grilled corn and had a delicious bbq. The kids had a good time assembling the food and rolling the corn in foil. Tim was in heaven because he got to use his “man stove.”

Making kabobs for memorial day. Many thanks to our soliders both past and present.

McCabe seriously cracks me up. I help him get dressed on a daily basis. He is in a stage where he changes clothes 2 to 3 times a day. It drives me nuts. However, on this particular day he found a bunny suit that is size 18 months to 24 months. He wears 4T. I was doing something when he unexpectly showed up wearing the small bunny suit. I thought it was so funny I had to get a picture. He would not pose for a picture so I got him running away and trying to hide his face in the couch while his tail stuck straight in the air. This made me laugh more. Then without warning he turns around and gives me the stink eye/I am annoyed at you look and tells me to stop taking pictures. And what do I do???? Of course....I snap another picture.

McCabe running away.

Bunny tail in the air.

"Mom, stop taking pictures of me!"

This past Saturday Jacinda went fishing. We signed up through parks and rec. unfortunately it was only for kids ages 5 to 14. So McCabe could not fish. I was really worried that he would throw a fit but he was content holding the fish bag. We each had our own duties. Jacinda fished, Tim assisted, Xadia watched, McCabe held the bag, and I took photos and cheered. I am so grateful that the weather cooperated. There was a little sectioned off area in Lake Sacajewea where 2,000 rainbow trout were released Friday night. The following morning all the kids came at their assigned times to catch their limit of 2 fish. We had 45 minutes. Our first spot, standing on the grassy bank, did not prove to be successful. So we walked to the dock and sure enough....Jacinda caught her two fish. Now she and the rest of the family can eat them and while I enjoy a piece of chicken.

McCabe and Jacinda at Lake Sacajewea.

Jacinda fishing with her pink fishing pole.

Wow! what a fish.....Mac is keeping his distance.

Jacinda's big catch.

McCabe holding the fish bag.

Sasha's big catch!!!

Tuesay, June 1, 2010

2010-06-01T21:57:00.000-07:00

Here it is June and we are still experiencing rain. I guess I should just expect it....after all this is the North West. (But I am totally sick of it.....I need sun!)

Tim subscribes to these "daily gems" from the church. Every so often he sends me one that he feels if very important. I love this gem. I love it so much that I want to share it with my fellow bloggers/readers. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Establish Harmony in Your Marital Relationship
"It is far more difficult to be of one heart and mind than to be physically one. This unity of heart and mind is manifest in sincere expressions of 'I appreciate you' and 'I am proud of you.' Such domestic harmony results from forgiving and forgetting, essential elements of a maturing marriage relationship. Someone has said that we 'should keep [our] eyes wide open before marriage, and half shut afterward.' True charity ought to begin in marriage, for it is a relationship that must be rebuilt every day."
James E. Faust, "Fathers, Mothers, Marriage," Ensign, Aug. 2004, 5
Topics: Unity, Marriage

Sunday May 23, 2010

2010-05-23T21:11:00.000-07:00

It seems like life repeats itself from day-to-day. Each morning I get up and am a mom. That consists of getting the kids fed, dressed, off to pre-school, and cleaning up after each of them. I look forward to afternoon story time and then our naps. This morning was a little different obviously because it was Sunday. I was awakened by Xadia crying. I checked her room but she was not there so I headed downstairs. I was stopped on the stairs by Jacinda..."mom we were going to give you breakfast in bed." Dang it!! I hate it when I ruin a good surprise. "Oh should I go get back into bed?" was my reply. "No, just come eat." When I entered the kitchen, there were dishes all over the place and bits and pieces of food here and there. Tim had made egg fried rice with hot dogs and a side of orange juice. Well what can I say....at least I did not have to cook it (but I never would have thought of that combination). After breakfast I was on clean up duty while Tim recovered. I sure appreciate all that he does and his thoughtfulness.

My sleeping beauties!

If you have not figured out by now, Tim is the biggest jokester ever. He can really make me and others laugh. At the moment, he is in heaven. He found some "coke bottle" spoof glasses at the dollar store. He loves to wear them into public places and watch people's reactions. His latest adventure was at Red Robin where he pulled them out to read the menu. After he had captured some attention he took them off and cross his eyes. Then he laughed and laughed. My dad and father-in-law got to witness Tim with his silly glasses and they just bellow with laughter.

McCabe found the glasses and decided to put them on this morning as he went to the pantry. To his disappointment, the pantry was locked. So McCabe approached Tim and asked, "how come I can't have a marshmallow?" Tim caved and gave him a marshmallow but in return, Tim got these photos of Mac. He totally reminds me of Ralphie from "A Christmas Story."

Wacky Macky

Last week Jacinda did a jog-a-thon for her school. I have never seen that girl run like that. Every time we take her to the park or exercising she complains that she is too tired. I guess she needs to be around her friends and then she will leave you eating her dust and sustain that energy. It was fun to watch but McCabe got a little antsy. He wanted to run also so I said, "let's do it." We started running with Jacinda. I was all smiles running by her side until she told me that she only wanted to run with the young kids and that I should stop running, but McCabe could still run. Keep in mind she is only 5 and is already acting like she is 15 (YIKES!).

Xadia is absolutely fabulous. She is a good baby. She does not fuss when she goes down for naps. She smiles a lot, is very happy, and lets you know she is done eating by spitting out the food. I love this stage. She is grabbing everything her hands can touch and she is rolling in every direction. She is trying to get her stance to start crawling. She pushes herself up on her knees for a few seconds then decides to lay and her tummy and roll. She is cautious on the tile floors about not hitting her head. She likes to smack the tile with her hands. I think she likes the noise.
Baby Xadia Smiling

I have been very diligent about exercising. I do a lot of walking (but not as much as Tim). I have also incorporated sit-ups into my routine. Tim has inspired me to push myself even more and just yesterday I started doing push-ups or as he calls them "wuss-ups." There is a lot of truth to the name. I can only go half-way down to the ground. Tim can touch his nose to the carpet and push himself up. He can do it with kids on his back. Here I am with my knees bent struggling to meet the carpet half-way. Well I started out with 10 and I swear that all the scar tissue in my chest (from the lymphectomy) ripped. I did another 10 later that evening and can I just say "ouch." I am in pain today....and I feel totally pathetic that 20 very weak push-ups got the best of me.

Monday, May 10, 2010

2010-05-10T09:25:00.000-07:00

It has been 2 week since my last posting. We have been doing a lot of things. So I warn you.....there are a lot of pictures. In the following pictures it shows Tim making swords out of PVC pipe for our family. This was a great family night. With our swords in hand, we were able to defend ourselves and our home against evil things. We had previously made a slide show with good and bad items and we wanted to test our kids to see if they could identify what was acceptable. So if the slide show had a picture of fighting or alcohol, they would raise their swords to defend themselves. If the picture was of good music or tithing, they would put down their swords and allow those things into our home. It was a great learning experience and the kids had a great time making their swords....all 3 of them (Jacinda, McCabe, and Tim).

(You want a piece of me.....bring it on!)

So while we were in Utah, Mimi wanted to straighten my hair since it is naturally curly. Well we never had the time so I finally did it at my house and I promised to show her the picture. So voila Mimi here I am with straight hair.

We are an excercise going family. Although I don't think McCabe has mastered the idea of a proper push-up. Here he is letting Tim do all the work.

Yeah!! a visit from Papa!

Here are all of the kids with their grandpa, Myron Nalder. WE are so happy to have him stay with us.

So even though my McCabe is getting big, he is still a softy. On this particular day before naps he told me to wait a moment while he got his babies. He covered them up and made sure the one had her bottle and fed the other one an imaginary carrot. I had to get a picture. Then Jacinda found out that Mac had her dolls and she was livid. But we got it all resolved and he did get to sleep with "his babies." Thanks Jacinda for sharing your dolls.

Here is the cutest smile in the whole world. Xadia is so happy. I love those 2 teeth of hers.

Daughter sees mom feed baby so she wants to feed baby. Have at it Jacinda. However, I had to do cleam up duty. I think more got on Xadia's bib and face than in her mouth. Thanks for your help Jacinda, I love you.

Daughter sees daddy grilling so she wants to try. She only got as far as helping daddy clean the grill. I won't let her get near the heat. But she loves to watch the temperature needle rise. She and McCabe kept running back in the house to tell us that the needle hit another set of zeroes. The best part was McCabe copying her....running back and forth and spitting out words. I don't think he had a clue what Jacinda was doing but it looked like fun so he joined her.

Sunday, April 18, 2010

2010-04-18T22:05:00.001-07:00

This might be a boring post because not much happened during the past week. But that won't stop me from blogging. I got a new calling. I am now the primary choirster. I love it!! The kids are so fun and singing is the best outlet ever. I love the primary songs because they are so simplistic and genuine. They are also great testimony builders. My calling has me leaving church feeling uplifted, happy, and accomplished.

It seems like there is not a day that goes by where I don't express my love of being a mother and having such a wonderful family. I love watching my kids grow.

Jacinda is getting ready to start kindergarten this fall. We are working really hard on her speech so that she is understandable to others. She is able to read 3 letter words which helps with articulation but anything beyond that gets a little lost in the translation. Nevertheless, I think she is beautiful, perfect, and I am so happy to have her.

Yeah....it is our new family picture. What a great looking bunch!

McCabe is getting ready to start pre-school this fall. He is doing much better with the seperation anxiety issue. He really admires his dad (Tim). In the previous picture, McCabe has a pocket watch (from Tim) attached to his pants. He wore today to church and occasionally checked the time (though he cannot tell time). In the picture McCabe is flustered because he cannot get the watch off his pants so he can put it on his play clothes pants. As a result the typical 3-year-old reaction of crying and moaning takes place. Nevertheless, he is my handsome boy and perfect in every way and I am so happy to have him.

Here is a picture of my girls. Xadia is now six months and has 2 bottom teeth. She gets up anywhere from 3 to 6 times a night. It gets tiresome and I rely on Tim to attend to her needs after about the fourth time of getting up. Nevertheless, she is beautiful, perfect, and I am so happy to have her.

Ok....I am not trying to be vain with this picture. I had Tim take it as a benchmark. April 30, 2010 is the 2 year mark since my last chemo treatment. Here I am two years later so very happy to be alive and to enjoy all that I have. Each day of good health is a marvelous gift from the Lord.

Sunday, April 11, 2010

2010-04-11T21:29:00.000-07:00

So last week Tim realized that the kids were not in school and he could work anywhere. So we decided to take a road trip for Spring break. We left at 11:00 pm and traveled 12 hours to Utah. We thought by leaving so late the kids would sleep. Boy were we wrong. They stayed up the whole time in great anticipation to see aunt Mimi. Here are some pictures from our trip.

The kids and Tim are making snowmen. It is great....for spring break we go where the snow is.

We got to visit Brighton, Kerianne, and Bode Bangerter and see her new beautiful home. Chuck visited us on his lunch break. Unfortunately he left before I pulled out the camera.

McCabe and Jacinda said, "hello" to grandma Nalder while Xadia slept in the car. It has been 6 years since her passing and we sure love and miss her.

Here we are posing for a picture with the Johnson crew. Behind us is the water fountain that is near the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. It was a little windy and cold.

Tim and I took a moment to pose with the temple behind us. Unfortunately it was so windy I had to hold back my hair....that is why my hand is right between us.

We had a great time in Utah. We got to eat at the Lion house (it was delicious) and ate school lunch with the cousins. We also had the easter bunny stop by and bring a basket full of fruit and goodies. Our easter egg hunt had plastic eggs filled with fun cartoon band-aids, stickers, and plastic bugs. There was a limited amount of candy because 2 of Mimi kids are diabetic. I think it is fantastic and I would not mind doing it every year. It seems like my kids are always getting candy.....even if I don't buy it. They are like sugar magnents.

Here we are at home. It is fun going on vacation, but it is even better to be back in our own surroundings.

Sunday, March 28, 2010

2010-03-28T21:16:00.000-07:00

It is time for a re-cap of the past few weeks. Saturday we cleaned the church. Here is a picture of the cleaning crew. We appreciate the Gardners letting us borrow Kaitlyn and Aubrey to help us. Also John and Trinity did a great job. We made sure every window was spotless.

Jacinda's school had an open house. We got to walk around the classroom and look at her wonderful school work. I am so pleased at how big she is getting and all the things she is able to do. Just the other day we started spelling 3 letter words like, "top" and "fun." If you look closely in this picture McCabe has his hair spiked. He is big into having it "stick up." In fact, I catch him throughout the day running his fingers through his hair to make it spiked. What a goof! Tim decided to trim his hair to make it easier to spike. Well he accidently cut it too short as you can see in the previous picture. Nevertheless, he is still a cutie.

This is Xadia's first time in a swing. We like to spend our time at the park especially since the sun is starting to show. We like to also ride our bikes and go on walks. The kids are really big about getting their exercise. Now if only I can get them to eat their food during meal times we will be golden.

March 14, 2010

2010-03-14T23:00:00.000-07:00

Cute little Xadia.

I am totally sleep deprived right now. Xadia is cutting 2 bottom teeth. For the most part she is in good spirits but at times she cries in pain and it breaks my heart. Xadia has impecable timing because tomorrow we are going to the dentitst. It will be McCabe's first time. I hope he does well. He still has some separation issues (which is normal but I really want him to cooperate).

I had a big scare over the weekend, my dad was in the hospital with pneumonia and strep. He was released but the doctor found some health issues in which he would like to run some tests and see if my dad needs a pace maker. It is hard dealing with the aging process and having loved ones decline in health.

We have been housing missionaries for over 2 years now and have enjoyed every moment of it. Speaking of missionaries, Tim was just called to the stake high council and to oversee the missionary work. He is very excited and is ready to jump into this calling with full force. However, back to housing the missionaries (sorry about the side track). Along the way, we get to meet some very notable young men. One of which is Elder (Richie) Gittings. He was one of our first missionaries. He is now finished serving an honorable mission and gets to return home. However, before leaving he was able to join our family and some other missionaries for breakfast. What a fun time we are having with these valiant servants. Our kids also love them. I love hearing McCabe say, "hi mission-maries," as they leave in the morning to get into their car.

left to right: Elder Boren, Elder Hawkins, Elder Black, Elder Gittings, Jacinda and McCabe

March 9, 2010

2010-03-09T21:45:00.000-08:00

Today was Tim's birthday. How did we celebrate???? He took the day off so we could do some spring cleaning. Then went to Lucky Dragon Chinese Restaurant to get his favorite dish of walnut shrimp. Then we spent the rest of the evening at Chuck E. Cheese. When entering the establishment the hostess asked if there was any special occasion tonight. "Yes," I said, "it is Tim's birthday." He just looked at me and gave me a big smile. We let the kids spend the 20 plus tokens we had lying around the house. They had a great time and Tim even got to go on a ride with McCabe. To top off the evening he is now on a nice run in the freezing weather. I hope he had a great birthday. We sure love him.

Here are a few short videos of our kids we wanted to share.

This clip is McCabe singing the Veggie Tales theme song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZrWrvbela00

This clip is Jacinda teaching McCabe how to bless the food. Watch the juice it squirts out of the straw.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89GSGH9nhmk v=89GSGH9nhmk

Sunday, February 21, 2010

2010-02-21T22:10:00.001-08:00

My baby Xadia is getting so big. She is now 4 months and rolling over.

Every moment we get to enjoy the sunshine we are out walking. On this particular day Jacinda got bored on our walk because we walk up and down the same street for about an hour. It is a safe street with very little traffic. While sitting in the car (because we drive to this street) she found some chalk. She got out and drew some pictures. She then started playing hop scotch....what a cutie!

I love my life because there is never a dull moment. My kids are constantly surprising me with the silly things they do.

Here is McCabe wearing his birthday gift from Grandma. He looks so handsome. He happens to be talking with Lance and Soli Stubbs on the phone....what a model!

Here is another picture where he should be modeling for fruit of the loom or maybe Calvin Klein...wait a minute...is that McCabe or Tim? McCabe is so big. He is putting on his own underwear. Now he needs to figure out what part goes in the front.

I love this man and I am so thankful he is my husband!

Monday, February 8, 2010

2010-02-08T03:43:00.000-08:00

So what does Sasha do at 3:00 in the morning when she can’t sleep? She blogs! We had such a fun week at our house. McCabe celebrated his 3rd birthday. We had Doug’s family, the Mumfords, and the missionaries over for some taco salad and chocolate cake. The kids ran wild while the adults visited. Mac got a lot of airplanes and a helicopter for his birthday. He also received a container of fruity candy mints….which he loves. The whole night he was offering to share the mints. I think he asked Chad Mumford about 4 different times if he wanted a mint. When refused, McCabe would pop the mint in his mouth. He polished off that container in 2 days.

Jacinda is really excited for Valentine’s day. In fact, she is off to a start of making valentine letters. The other day she gave me a heart attack by making paper hearts and putting them up on the slider. Each heart says, “I love you…Sasah….mom.” I was so touched by the thoughtfulness that I have not told her that she misspelled my name. I will just enjoy the evidence of her youth while I can.

Jacinda is also trying to be a big help. Just the other night she wanted to help put Xadia to sleep….so she climbed in the crib to hold Xadia while she drifted off to slumber land. The only problem is that Jacinda followed and fell asleep in the crib also. I had to sneak a picture of this adorable moment.

Xadia is changing every day. Here is a cute picture of her. I love her big eyes. They remind me of Tim.

Went to the Oncologist this past week and for the first time since completing treatments I finally feel like I can live again without constantly worrying about having cancer. A great burden was lifted off my shoulders as the doctor checked my lymph nodes and reviewed the x-rays with me. He also did a fantastic job answering my questions. I gave a lot of prayers of thanks for the good news and for allowing me to live. There are just too many things during my days I enjoy…..I am not ready to die or experience chemo again.

I saw a really neat quote I would like to share. “You know you are in love when you can’t sleep because reality is much better than your dreams.” Dr. Seuss. Wow! How true is that! I am sure we all can relate to that saying to some degree.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

2010-01-27T14:45:00.001-08:00

The kids are asleep in bed and I have a few minutes to write about our lives. McCabe and Jacinda will start swimming lessons this Tuesday 2/2/10. We normally do this in the summer but McCabe kept asking if he could take them. Finally I caved since his birthday is 2/2/10 I thought it would be a nice gift.

Jacinda started taking up sewing. She is getting comfortable with the sewing machine. In fact, she found some scrap material, sewed a yellow zig zag line on it and called it a scarf. She was so pleased with her creation that she wore it to school.

Xadia is way too cute for words. She loves to smile and coo. She is also a squeeler. She will be looking at you and start to make these funny squeeling sounds. At first I thought she was going to cry but I knew I was wrong when she had a huge smile on her face. She is so joyful.

Sunday, January 17, 2010

2010-01-17T19:52:00.000-08:00

My weeks are starting to blend into one. It has been two weeks since my last blog and I feel like I don't have much to write about. Here are a few things that are note worthy. I am selling my first item on e-bay. Tim has become a running machine. He set another personal best...10 miles in 1 hour and 40 minutes. (you go boy!!) McCabe is calling his dad Tim. It is driving Tim crazy. He keeps reminding McCabe that he should be called "dad," not Tim.

This morning for church McCabe decided to wear shorts and shoes that are a few sizes too big. (I don't think so.) I had to wrestle them off and put on some decent clothes. But before doing so I had to get a picture. He would not stand still that is why this picture is a little blurry.

Jacinda has been very helpful. I have this cute picture of her coloring a picture. She is such a good helper.

Xadia is now 3 months. Already she knows her mom. Last night we had a ward game night and she would not go to others without fussing. It was so weird. Then when I held her.....she would calm down. Babies sometimes just amaze me.

Here is a picture of us karaoking. We were singing either Like a Prayer by Madonna or Eternal Flame by the Bangles. We had such a blast. I love ward game night.

Sunday, January 3, 2010

2010-01-03T21:47:00.000-08:00

Wow!!! a new year. We kicked it off by staying at the Great Wolf Lodge. It is a hotel with an indoor water park. Yep...that is how we do it here in the Northwest....indoors. It was a lot of fun. We went with Doug (Tim's brother) and family which was nice because they held Xadia some of the time so I could have a turn on the slides. McCabe and Jacinda had a blast. They were not afraid of the water at all which is a blessing and a curse. Yes it will be easier to teach them to swim but at the moment, they should not rush off into deep waters without mom or dad.

Tomorrow starts the old routine of getting the kids to school, lessons, etc... I really enjoyed the break but time must go on.

At the moment I am sitting on my bed typing this entry and Tim is talking to Xadia. She is squealing and responding to him. It is the cutest thing. I love watching Tim bond with his daughter....shoot I just love seeing the cutesy soft side of him.

Sunday, December 27, 2009

2009-12-27T22:45:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-15T11:21:00.000-08:00

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

2009-12-06T22:55:00.001-08:00

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

2009-11-22T19:58:00.000-08:00

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

2009-11-09T09:57:00.000-08:00

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

2009-10-18T23:04:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-09T22:43:00.000-07:00

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

2009-10-04T20:16:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-20T23:42:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-13T23:15:00.001-07:00

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

2009-09-06T13:30:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-24T08:52:00.001-07:00

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

2009-08-03T21:54:00.001-07:00

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

2009-07-26T21:29:00.000-07:00

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.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

2009-07-12T21:48:00.000-07:00

The past two weeks have been very crazy. McCabe had a double ear infection and I had a sinus infection resulting from a prolonged allergy season. We are finally both well, however, being sick is the worst...especially when my mind thinks about a possible relapse with cancer (Yikes!).

The 4th of July was fun for Tim and Jacinda. They got to have a daddy daughter date at the lake. They bought ice cream and watched the fireworks. I stayed home with McCabe and watched a veggie tales movie. McCabe does not do well with fireworks. He is etremely scared by the noise and the light. In fact, he bit me two different times when lighting fireworks. He was not being mean. In one firework incident he was crying and I was holding him as he nestled his head in my shoulder a firework went BANG and it scared him which caused him to sink his teeth into my shoulder. The other incident he was standing next to me but as soon as he saw Tim light the firework he started screaming and ran behind me. The next thing I knew there was a loud firecracker noise and I was screaming because of the pain in the back of my thigh. Sure enough, he had bit me. I decided, no more fireworks with McCabe nearby it is just too painful for both of us.

Sunday, June 28, 2009

2009-06-28T20:34:00.000-07:00

We are having a very busy summer. Jacinda just finished her swimming lessons. She can now submerge her head in the water and blow bubbles without being scared. McCabe had to sit next to me for 2 weeks and watch. He grew very impatient at times. McCabe is very excited to take swimming lessons, however, that wont’ happen for another year. In the meantime, we take him and Jacinda to the river and the sprinkler park to get his “swimming” fix.

Going to the river.

Loving the sprinkler park and the giant drinking fountain.

Summer is a great time filled with picnics, naps, and water fun. However, this past month we had relatives and friends stay with us. First the Dimond family visited. Bonnie was Tim’s Sunday school teacher when he was 13. She formed a really good bond with her class and keeps in touch with them. We got the honor of housing her and her family for a day or two. Andrew (age 6), her son loved playing with the kids. In fact, he had a very hard time leaving. All of his crying and pleading to stay I take as a compliment.

Jacinda and McCabe having a little picnic on the deck.

Nap time for Jacinda and daddy.

After the Dimond’s left, grandma Fisher and soon to be grandpa John stayed with us. They came for Ashley’s (my niece) wedding. It was great to have them. The kids loved seeing them and I enjoyed talking to some adults. I also appreciated the fact that they watched the kids while Tim and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary (WOW!). Tim had planned a nice little get away, but that got postponed because of Ashley’s wedding. Instead we went to dinner and took a little walk around part of the lake. I could not walk for very long because of the pressure from the fetus. So we had little moments to rest and talk. It was actually very nice.

Among all the celebrating I cannot neglect father’s day. Sometimes Tim is so brilliant with his gift ideas. All he wanted was a video of the kids singing and doing a little program. So I had the kids sing (with actions of course) “Once There Was A Snowman,” and “The Wise Man.” Then we had Jacinda answer some questions about her dad and we asked Tim questions about his childhood. It will be a fun video to watch in 20 years.

Sunday, May 31, 2009

2009-05-31T20:30:00.000-07:00

Friday we found out it's a girl!! We don't have any names chosen, but we are looking forward to October when she arrives. Jacinda wants to name her Strawberry Shortcake (can you tell what is popular with her?). We are trying to tell McCabe that mommy is having a baby, but every time we say "baby" he points to his belly.

I wanted to upload pictures with this post but at the moment I cannot find my picutre attachment....so you will need to use your imagination. McCabe is big into trains. He loves to play with them, watch them, and hear their whistle blow. He is a huge fan of Thomas the Train and loves to say, "Skarloey."

Jacinda is big into Strawberry Shortcake, Veggie Tales, and playing with her dolls. She is currently working hard to earn a bike. She has a chore chart and for every chore completed she gets a sticker. Once all the boxes on the chart are filled she gets to pick out a bike.

Tim is big into taking small projects and making them huge. This past Saturday he spent the day building a playground/jungle gym for the kids. He woke up at 4:00 am thinking about how to make it better than his original idea. This is one of the many reasons why I love this man. No matter how simple the task, he always goes the extra 12 miles!!

Sunday, May 17, 2009

2009-05-17T20:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I got to be an extra in a movie called the “Crowley Project.” It stars Harrison Ford, Brendan Fraser, and Keri Russell. I participated in two scenes, the school play (as an audience member) and in front of the school as a parent dropping off her daughter. I won’t be seen in either one because both times I was too far away from the cameras. However, it was a fun experience. If you see this movie when it comes out note the outdoor scene when everybody is in a jacket or a sweater and see if anyone is sweating. It was 89 degrees and that segment was shot 9 times. The crew was awesome about getting water and sunblock to the participants.

It is amazing how society builds up actors and actresses. They are just ordinary people like us. I took some pictures but need to figure out how to get them from my phone to the computer. Stay tuned for pictures.

Thursday, April 30, 2009

2009-04-30T22:18:00.000-07:00

I wish I knew who wrote this so I can give them credit. Regardless this is a sweet message that shows the true cost of having children.

The Price of Children.

This is just too good not to pass on to all. Here is something absolutely positive for a change. I have repeatedly seen the breakdown of the cost of raising a child, but this is the first time I have seen the rewards listed this way. It's nice.

The government recently calculated the cost of raising a child from birth to 18 and came up with $160,140.00 for a middle income family. Talk about price shock! That doesn't even touch college tuition .But $160,140.00 isn't so bad if you break it down.

It translates into:
* $8,896.66 a year,
* $741.38 a month,
* $171.08 a week.
* A mere $24.24 a day!
* Just over a dollar an hour.

Still, you might think the best financial advice is : don't have children if you want to be 'rich.' Actually, it is just the opposite.What do you get for your $160,140.00?
* Naming rights . First, middle, and last!
* Glimpses of God every day.
* Giggles under the covers every night..
* More love than your heart can hold.
* Butterfly kisses and Velcro hugs.
* Endless wonder over rocks, ants, clouds, and warm cookies.
* A hand to hold usually covered with jelly or chocolate.
* A partner for blowing bubbles and flying kites.
* Someone to laugh yourself silly with, no matter what the boss said or how your stocks performed that day.

For $160,140.00, you never have to grow up. You get to:
* finger-paint,
* carve pumpkins,
* play hide-and-seek,
* catch lightning bugs,
* never stop believing in Santa Claus .

You have an excuse to:
* keep reading the Adventures of Piglet and Pooh,
* watch Saturday morning cartoons,
* go to Disney movies, and
* wish on stars.

You get to frame rainbows, hearts, and flowers under refrigerator magnets and collect spray painted noodle wreaths for Christmas , hand prints set in clay for Mother's Day , and cards with backward letters for Father's Day .

For a mere $24.24 a day, there is no greater bang for your buck. You get to be a hero just for:
* retrieving a Frisbee off the garage roof,
* taking the training wheels off a bike,
* removing a splinter,
* filling a wading pool ,
* coaxing a wad of gum out of bangs, and
* coaching a baseball team that never wins but always gets treated to ice cream regardless.

You get a front row seat in history to witness the:
* First step,
* First word,
* First bra,
* First date,
* First time behind the wheel.

You get to be immortal. You get another branch added to your family tree, and if you're lucky, a long list of limbs in your obituary called grandchildren and great - grandchildren. You get an education in psychology, nursing, criminal justice, communications, and human sexuality that no college can match...In the eyes of a child, you rank right up there under God. You have all the power to heal a boo-boo, scare away the monsters under the bed, patch a broken heart, police a slumber party, ground them forever, and love them without limits, so one day they will, like you, love without counting the cost. That is quite a deal for the price!!!!!!!Love & enjoy your children & grandchildren & great-grandchildren!!!!!!! It's the best investment you'll ever make!!!!!!!!!

Sunday, April 26, 2009

2009-04-26T22:17:00.000-07:00

I am the luckiest mom ever for 2 reasons….Jacinda and McCabe. They make me so happy. I love how Jacinda sporadically says, “I love you McTabe.” And then he answers back, “I love you.” They both try so hard to be good.

We went to a carnival and the kids had a great time. It took McCabe a little convincing at first, but after the rides started moving there was laughter. Jacinda loved riding the swings. She though she was flying.

McCabe and Jacinda riding bikes.

Jacinda flying on the swings.

Jacinda and mom waiting for daddy and McCabe to finish their ferris wheel ride.

During this past week we were so busy doing things. We bought plants for our garden and Tim made a fire pit from a washing machine. It is the ultimate white trash fire pit but works great. We made some delicious s’mores and enjoyed the heat during a light sprinkle. I love being with my family.

White trash fire pit. (Oh yeah)

Today I got to teach the lesson in Relief Society on the Infinite Power of Hope. It was given in October’s Saturday conference. If there was one message that really struck me, it was that hope should be the first feeling that fills our lives when trials come over us. It is hard to have hope when life gets hard, but having hope (aka trust in the Lord) makes the trials much easier to encounter.

Sunday, April 12, 2009

2009-04-12T21:12:00.000-07:00

The kids, mainly Jacinda was very excited for the Easter Bunny. She told me to put a basket in front of her bedroom door so the Easter Bunny would fill it. She was sorely disappointed when she awoke and found an empty basket. She said, “the Easter Bunny did not come.” I told her to go downstairs and eat some breakfast. That is when the fun began. She saw a gift for mom, then for McCabe, and then she found her Easter basket. She was so excited she started singing and telling everybody that she loves them. It is amazing what a few pieces of sugar can do for a kid.

Sunday, March 29, 2009

2009-03-29T22:08:00.001-07:00

This past week was very busy and fun. It started out by talking with Sara Mumford my high school friend and college roommate. It was a joy to talk with her because she is very cheery, upbeat, and down to earth. We talked about kids and being wives and mothers. I hope everything works out for Blake, her husband with his adventures in work and possible position changes.

We are going on week 3 of breaking the pacifier addiction. McCabe is doing great. He is channeling his energy into his toy trains. We got him a spider man back pack so he can carry all his trains with him. However, it has been such a hassle trying to keep track of 6 different trains wherever we go. So we decided to narrow it down to taking just one train. He did not like that at first, but now he has gotten used to it. Kids are really good when they obey their parents.

Chris, my brother-in-law came into town for a few short days for his father’s reception. It was great seeing him. I miss the Fisher side of the family. Chris was not in town long enough to really do anything but go to the reception. It was a small informal and nice reception. The food was delicious and everything was just lovely. I am really glad we went. We got home about ten at night. Tim made the comment that he was really tired because it feels like he was watching the kids all day. I started laughing and said, “What part made you tired?” “Was it making a tambourine with Jacinda, or playing ball with the kids, reading them stories, making cards, feeding them lunch, or blowing bubbles, that mad you tired?” Of course these were activities I did with the kids throughout the day. Tim then said, “I only said it felt like I was watching the kids.” As part of the team effort to help alleviate some of my work, he put a new bottle of shampoo in the shower. We laughed at our different duties. I am not complaining at all, in fact, I had never thought about all the stuff I did during the day. It is a privilege to spend quality time with them. I do love them so much.

Sunday, March 15, 2009

2009-03-15T22:41:00.001-07:00

So I just want to re-cap on a few events that occurred during the past week. Let me first start with our neighbor’s party. Steven Pond was turning forty. The party was filled with lots of food and people. Jacinda played with her friends and waited the whole night for the cake cutting. When it came time to light the candles and then cut the cake, my children were right there first in line. In fact, when Tracy lit the 40 candles, Jacinda covered her mouth and McCabe started blowing/spitting to put out the fire. Tim and I were laughing. There 15-year-old son had to put his hand over McCabe’s mouth. I wish I had a camera to capture the moment. Well when it was time to blow out the candles, McCabe did help.

McCabe was also fascinated with the Pond’s fish. He kept sticking his finger in the bowl and the fish would come up and “kiss” it. Instantly McCabe would pull out his finger and wipe it on his shirt as he giggled. That was a riot to watch. I love the excitement that 2 year-olds can exhibit.

You know it is funny how life throws things at you and you have to decide how to react. We hired an accountant to do our taxes. She said that they would be done March 2nd. I called numerous times to come and get the paper work. She would not return my calls so I decided to go to her office. I thought clearly she would have them done since it was a week in a half past the given “finish” date. She was not in her office so I left a message with the receptionist. She did not call when she came in that day so I called her the next day. Eventually she called back and confessed to misplacing our paperwork and then finding it (that is why she never returned my calls). I was livid and fuming, but I learned a valuable lesson. When disaster strikes, take immediate action to resolve the issue because ignoring it will not make it go away. Also be honest with your dealings. We have all the originals and would have been happy to have provided her another set. Unfortunately this will result in finding a new accountant.

Sunday, March 8, 2009

2009-03-08T21:29:00.001-07:00

Today we went to dinner at Brad and Cindy Larsen’s. I had a great time talking and enjoying a delicious meal. For the most part the kids were good. However, there was a moment after dinner as we were talking that McCabe had disappeared for a minute or two and then showed up with chocolate all over his face and right hand. He had helped himself to the chocolate cake. I started laughing. Brad and Cindy were very nice a casual about the whole ordeal. Needless to say, I took the piece hand crafted by McCabe.

Tomorrow is Tim’s birthday. We have dinner and a walk planned. We are also getting him some new church shoes. It is funny how birthdays change when we get older. We focus on the birthday person during the day and then we get to have a date night. It is almost like having another valentine’s day. I am really thankful that I get to enjoy another year with Tim. There has not been a day where I’ve regretted marrying him. He is such a good match.

This past week was crazy fun. I got to do a photo shoot for Fred Meyer’s deli. I am holding a platter of food next to a banquet table filled with food in a khaki outfit. I am also wearing a long black wig. The photo shoot was a great experience and the people were very nice to work with. However, I probably will never do it again because I had to arrange for a sitter then drive an hour each way. Once at the studio, I sat around for 3 hours, brushed my wig with a plastic fork (because I forgot a brush) and then had pictures taken for 45 minutes. The Kroger people were giving me one set of instructions for the shoot while the camera man was telling me something completely different. I guess eventually I did what they wanted or at least they saw a picture worth keeping. My only regret is not asking when the picture will be advertised. So if you happened to see an ad that might resemble the scene I described let me know. It also might be in a Smith’s deli ad since Kroger also owns Smith’s.

Monday, February 16, 2009

2009-02-16T20:48:00.000-08:00

This past week contained Valentine’s day. We celebrated it a day early. It was so nice to be unconventional. The kids were dropped off at the sitter’s house while Tim and I walked around Lake Sacajewea. It was a bit chilly (43 degrees) but we dressed warm. It was nice to have a break from the kids but all we did was talk about them as we walked the lake. What can I say they are the majority of my life right now.

Saturday we took family pictures. That was an adventure that only comes once a year for a good reason. We had planned to take two sets of pictures, one in formal attire and the other in jeans. We only got the set of pictures in formal attire. It was too difficult controlling McCabe. We had to bribe him and if you look close enough in some of the pictures he has a lollipop. After an hour in a half of battling McCabe, we decided to look at the pictures and they passed our approval.

Today was an off day for me. The kid’s nagging wore me down. They always needed me at the same time for different reasons. As the work day drew to an end, I thought “success” because there was not one blow up between myself and the children during the day. But I knew something was awry when Tim informed me that I put my pears on the rice and nearly put the beef stroganoff on my cottage cheese. I was so occupied dishing up the kid’s plate that when it came to my own I was not thinking. I got a good laugh…there is always a first for everyone.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

2009-02-10T10:00:00.001-08:00

Here I am walking on the treadmill watching the snow fall outside. I thought it would be a good time to update the blog. We had a great past week. Tim took 2 days off from work. One day he spent building a chicken coop and the next day he spent recovering from his handy man efforts. We got 3 chickens. Jacinda named them carbuncle, blueberry, and bacterial. I know where she got the first two names but bacterial really surprised me. Carbuncle is a result of my endless attempts of calling her white with red spots toy dog that name. The name Blueberry was inspired from a strawberry shortcake character. It is really fun having the chickens. Jacinda feels the need to check on them every hour. She gets extremely excited when they lay eggs. We get about 1 or 2 a day. Jacinda also likes to feed them bread. I have noticed that my bread is disappearing much faster since having the chickens.

Having chickens is also great for Tim. Just a few days ago Tim played a trick on the kids. When they were not looking, he put a plastic purple candy filled egg next to the eggs that were laid. He had the kids go out and get the eggs. He followed with a camcorder. McCabe’s reaction was sheer obliviousness. Jacinda stood there for a moment thinking about a purple egg next to the brown eggs and then she caught on. When she shook the plastic egg she just laughed and said, “there is candy in here.”

Sunday, February 1, 2009

2009-02-01T13:45:00.001-08:00

It has been about 2 weeks since my last entry. Life as a mother does not slow down. I got to talk today in Young Women’s about “finding joy in my divine potential.” I was asked to talk about my life without kids and then the life I have now. Basically I discussed events in the past 10 years and how they have helped me to realize the potential I have as a daughter of God. The events in the past 10 years that played such a pivotal role in my life include, my patriarchal blessing, my temple marriage, getting an education, the death of my mother, the birth of my children, and cancer. No matter the trial or the great experiences I have on this earth, God’s hand is always involved. No matter the circumstances I still feel very blessed and know that I am a daughter of God. He loves me and sent me here to have joy. I am having a great life and I don’t want to disappoint Him. I am trying to do my best to raise and nurture my children in righteousness by teaching them gospel principles so that we can all return to Him.

This past week the kids made cookies, got some haircuts, and had cousins from California visit. We have been very busy being creative and developing our culinary skills. Jacinda has been on a picture kick lately. She is taking pictures of everything, the chair, her family, the wall, and her toes. McCabe is big into copying mom and dad. Today he needed to put perfume on his wrists just like his mom and likes to shave (with the lid on) with his dad. It is so much fun watching these kids grow.

Shaving like daddy

McCabe gets a haircut

Picture taken by Jacinda of her feet.

Frosting cookies (Yummmm!!)

Car full of cousins.

Sunday, January 18, 2009

2009-01-18T13:48:00.000-08:00

I am extremely tired today. I know that Sunday’s are supposed to be the day of rest but there is not rest for this mother. McCabe was active and tired all through church. He gave me a scare when he almost flipped over the pew. Fortunately I caught is legs before they went over. During the third hour I rocked him to sleep. That was precious and a monumental moment. He never falls asleep at church.

This past week was unbelievably busy. Tim took the week off and it seemed like life got busier. I did paint the downstairs bathroom. I am very happy with the results. Tim did not get to do much around the house. He did however watch the kids so I could paint which I gratefully appreciate.

We went to Portland a few times this week. Wednesday I had an oncology appointment. I had some x-rays taken and it was amazing to compare the before and after pictures of my lungs and heart. Dr. Nichols pointed out where the cancer was and the current space of where it once resided. I was amazed at the difference. It actually gave me great comfort to see a diminished circle inside my body where the cancer once resided. Yes there is some scarring on my lungs from the radiation (he pointed that out), but that is no big deal as long as the cancer is gone. I have some occasional pains internally where the scarring is located on my lungs. At the moment I am trying to see if anything triggers the pain. Last night’s trigger was Chinese food.

Friday we played in Portland. We rode the street cars (the kids loved that), played at the park, and then ate some lunch at the Lloyd Center Mall. The weather was deceptively warm (sunny but chilly). We were warm as long as we kept moving and McCabe made sure that we did not stand around for too long. I wish I had his energy.

Saturday we went to the temple. It was a joy to be there with my husband and friends (it was stake temple day). Something very strange happed while sitting in the temple, the lights went out for 10 seconds and then the generators kicked on. I assume that the wind caused the outage since it was blowing really hard. After we finished our session as we were getting into our car the lights went out again. I heard they were out for 45 minutes. I was so grateful we went when we did and not any later.

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

2009-01-07T22:53:00.000-08:00

I have a few quick stories to share. First I need to admit that life changes when kids are brought into this world. I almost forgot what it is like to be married without children. The other night I was lying with Jacinda on her bed. She likes to talk with either myself or Tim before drifting off to sleep. We got on the topic of names. She asked if her name will still be Jacinda when she is a momma. I told her that it would and that her name is not going to change. Then she tells me that we should change McCabe's name. "What should his name be?" I asked. There was a moment of silence and then with a huge smile on her face she replies, "Spongebob Squarepants." I was caught off guard and started laughing. She was bellowing with laughter making the whole bed shake. I just love these tender moments.

Now to the flip side of tender moments. I must admit, as a parent I am always learning. I learned today that I will never take McCabe and Jacinda to the store again during their nap time. I was constantly turning around telling Jacinda to hurry up and then turning in the opposite direction to chase after McCabe. I don't know if he got mad, but while strolling down the juice isle, I once again turned to tell Jacinda to keep up. The next thing I hear is a crash and liquid gushing from a container. Sure enough to my horror, McCabe had knocked over a 2 quart bottle of cranberry juice and it was spilling out all over the floor. I manage to salvage about 60% of it. In the end that was some expensive cranberry juice.

Sunday, December 28, 2008

2008-12-28T21:03:00.001-08:00

Christmas was unbelievable. We got 10 inches of snow. We could not leave our home unless there were chains on our cars. There were big beautiful snowflakes falling from the sky as we opened our presents. Tim got a Christmas village; I got a forschner knife and a beautiful temple picture. Jacinda got slippers, the elefun game, and other goodies. McCabe got a ton of cars and trucks.

It is our family tradition to feed breakfast to the missionaries in our zone Christmas morning. We had juice, cinnamon rolls, bacon, and hash browns. Again we had 6 missionaries. This bunch was a bit more reserved than last year’s guys. Nevertheless, we still had a good time and they were extremely appreciative.

Oh yes, I almost forgot to mention that I went to midnight mass with my friend Denise Nippert. I have always wanted to go and have the experience. It was really neat to see the similarities between Catholicism and the Latter Day Saint religion. I noticed a lot of overlapping beliefs but different methods of presentation (i.e. the sacrament, reciting prayers, talking and rejoicing in Christ). It was a nice experience and fun to be with a friend and not worry about kids (Tim was home watching over them).

Today was a hard day. Tim leaves early for church so I am left with the kids. I have to get them ready, feed them, and pack the diaper/activity bag. We made it to church on time, but McCabe was tired. He was a little fussy sitting in the pew. He entertained himself by throwing toy cars at the people in front of us. I quickly put an end to that activity. So he decides on doing something different like dumping out the crayons and putting the Tupperware container on his head and burst into song. By this time, our row was a mess and sacrament meeting was running over. I got him back to normal and kept him quiet for a little while. I thought he was resting on the floor. Next thing I know he had broken free and tried to run up to Tim who was on the stand. Other members tried to stop him which caused him to run in the other direction. I was mortified, my son was running around the chapel during sacrament meeting and I was trying to chase him. I finally caught him and then he lets out a big scream. I quickly took him out into the hall. I had been in the hall no more than 60 seconds when the choir went up to sing. Over the pulpit I heard the choir director ask if someone would watch McCabe so I could come back and sing with them. Tim showed up and I walked into the front of the room with about 400 eyes staring at me. I was really embarrassed, but I felt somewhat re-assured that other parents have had similar occurrences.

After sacrament meeting I dumped McCabe in Nursery. I wad so tired and I didn’t care if he cried the whole time in there. He did good. It is official, McCabe can attend nursery without crying.

I gave the lesson today in Relief Society. It was on Elder Bednar’s talk entitled “Pray Always.” There were a lot of good messages and reminders in his talk. Sometimes I feel like someone else would do a better job giving the discussion since I am not always perfect in what I am presenting. I guess that is why I encourage class participation so I can learn from others.

I am soooooo excited for 2009. In fact I was anticipating it since Dec. 31, 2007 the day I was diagnosed with cancer. This past year was really rough as you all know. I still have pain in my chest (underneath my sternum) which scares me, since the majority of the cancer grew there. I also have a little pressure at the base of my throat. I wonder if my scar tissue is growing. Jan 12th I see the oncologist and have a chest x-ray. The results should be good and show that I am still cancer free. I just want to obtain some of my goals with the least amount of pain possible. I guess I need to re-read proverbs 3:5-6. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

2008-12-16T21:21:00.000-08:00

Oh how I love the christmas season but it sure is busy. This past week was Jacinda's 4th birthday. She had a princess party. The party turned out to be really fun. The kids decorated crowns, wands, necklaces, went on a treasure hunt, banged up a pinata and then sang along with a princess video. Thanks to all who came and made the party so much fun. There were a lot of princesses. I also want to thank Jacinda for letting her dad and brother join in the fun. All week she kept telling me that no boys were allowed. In fact, she told her dad that he should be working during her party....well that did not happen for 2 resons. First, this was his little girl's birthday and second, he does not work on Saturdays.

Jacinda showing off her decorated crown and wand.

The princesses in their royal garb.

As christmas approaches there are santas everywhere. I love this picture of McCabe and Santa. It looks like McCabe has a thought about about pulling on santa's beard as he stares at it.

Unfortunately Jacinda does not look that excited to see santa. Don't let this fool you, she is containing her excitment for just the right moment.

Let is snow!! Yes you guess it, we got snow and the kids wanted to build a snowman. The snowman did not happen but the kids got the taste of cold out of their system. It has been about 33 degrees here during the day. (Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrr)

Hooray!! Tis the season for a gingerbread house. My daughter is shirtless becasue she has an issue with being dirty. If something spills on her shirt then she needs to take it off, but she will not go upstairs to get a new shirt. So she ended up making a gingerbread house without her shirt. Now let's see what 2 kids and a daddy can do when it comes to making a sweet creation.

Well it looks pretty good, however, the back side is slanted in because McCabe was going for a candy and accidently pushed in the back side. I did not bother taking a picture of it. However, I should tell you that the roof now has a huge gap in it. I guess it slid apart during the night and then dried with a 1/2 inch gap.

Kids you did awesome!! I love your creativity. And McCabe it is ok if you licked every piece of candy before applying it to the house.

Sunday, December 7, 2008

2008-12-07T10:27:00.000-08:00

Happy birthday Natalie....my older sister.

Having fun watching Jacinda roller skating.

Jacinda striking a pose while dancing.

I am having too much fun. I love being a mom and a wife…shoot I just love being alive. I am approaching my 1 year mark of being diagnosed with cancer. I read a little story about a fellow who has experienced cancer 3 times in his life (something I wish never to have). He said that you need to look at cancer as a “detour” not a death sentence. That is a great perspective. Since going through the whole ordeal with cancer, chemo, and radiation I have definitely changed. I am a bit more daring in areas that were once lacking in self-confidence. Just this past week I auditioned for a print ad. It was exhilarating standing there trying to put the camera man’s words into a pose. I didn’t do great, but the experience was priceless. I left the building just giggling knowing that I did something I would never have done in a thousand years if I was the same person from a year ago.

A current picture of Sasha

Thanksgiving was really fun and a cold learning lesson. We spent it with Tim’s dad and fiancée in Vancouver. We decided to go to the zoo before eating the feast. After all the zoo was nearby and has free admission on Thanksgiving. I did not think that there would be a lot of people there after all it was thanksgiving and people should be with their families eating turkey. Oh I was so wrong. The parking lot was full. We drove around for minutes looking for a parking spot. Finally we found one. The kids were so excited until McCabe had to sit in the stroller….then he threw a fit (hence the picture). We decided to let him walk….yikes!! Tim and I spent 2 hours chasing after a 2 year old and constantly saying, “excuse me, I’m sorry” to the people around us. McCabe sure is fast for a little guy. After our few hours at the zoo I was frozen. I could barely move my fingers to snap my seatbelt. I almost had to take Tim’s offer to help me buckle up. Oh it was sure nice thawing on the way to Steve and Jo’s place…I am so grateful for heat.
A very unhappy McCabe at the zoo

Yeehaw...the kids riding a wood pony at the zoo.

McCabe's favorite thanksgiving food....olives on the fingers of course.

So Tim and I spent last night watching the classic eighties movie “Mr. Mom” with Michael Keaton. After being with Tim for 10 years you pick up some things from him. For instance, I notice the “oops” moments in movies (something I never noticed before). We were laughing because there are 2 moments where the editing was overlooked. One part is when Jack (Michael Keaton) just got done wrestling with the washing machine. He then comes upstairs soaking wet only to face the vacuum with a mind of its own. As he is running away from the vacuum the next shot shows him turning a corner and instantly his shirt is dry and tucked into his waistline. We were laughing at that “oops” moment. And then to add to that, just moments later the baby in the walker has chili on her forehead. Next shot no chili on her forehead and then the next shot the chili is back on her forehead. This occurs all in a matter of seconds. We were rolling with laughter. I tell ya, it is the moments like these that make these movies classics.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

2008-11-23T19:21:00.000-08:00

I saw Twilight this past weekend with some ladies. It was a fun flick. Some of the scenes were filmed 30 minutes from the town where I live. Now that the sequel has the green light for production I think it would be a blast to be an extra in it. Unfortunately I do not look like I am in high school.....bummer.

I love that gas is just under $2.00 a gallon. Talk about making my day. Gas prices are more fickel than a woman. I should know since I am one.....a woman not a gas price.

I gave the lesson today in relifef society. It was about Pres. Monson's talk this past conference on "Finding Joy in the Journey." I loved teaching every minute of this talk because I was able to reflect on my life and see where I needed improving. I also loved hearing the comments from the other women. They have such good advice and lessons of life. The main message of the lesson is to show gratitude in word and deed for what you have and acknowledge God in everything. You have one life don't waste it lusting after things. Realize what you have and be grateful. I shared a story about my cancer. There were some positive things about having it (believe it or not). The part I shared went something like this: though I was stricken with a life threatning illness I still felt very blessed that I had hodgkins cancer....the one with the highest cure rate.

It is funny how we as mortals get stuck in thinking that life is miserable and that it would be better if I only had this or I only had that. I loved Pres. Monson's remarks and how he tells us to make the best of today by focusing on what is and not on an illusive wasteland. When we show thanks for the blessings we have, we are acknowleging the Lord's hand in our lives. I cannot add much more to that. He summed it up quite nicely.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

2008-11-19T22:11:00.000-08:00

What can I say…..these are the days I love!! I feel very fortunate that I can stay home and raise my children. They bring much joy into mine and Tim’s lives. I am grateful that Tim is a great dad who loves to wrestle and be with the children. I am also grateful that the children have a willingness to help with the chores and are not afraid to show their silly side every once in a while.

Jacinda and McCabe clowning around.

Silly misters.....that is not a hat.

Jacinda helping with the dishes.

An incredibly precious moment that I had to snap.

To the Jones family.....here is what you requested. Smartslenderweight@yahoo.com

Sunday, November 9, 2008

2008-11-09T19:39:00.001-08:00

Well not too much has happened this past week besides the motherly duties of loading and unloading the dishwasher 2 to 3 times a day, taking Jacinda to and from pre-school, and changing a lot of diapers. I did learn this past week that I am not very good with oil based paint. I tried painting our front door which proved to be a disastrous deed. Not only was the texture rough but the wind blew the painter’s paper on the wet paint as it was drying. Needles to say we spent our Saturday stripping off the paint and prepping it as next week’s project. Oh! I just remembered something I did that was pretty amazing, I put away the Halloween decorations and help build more shelves in the storage room. Yeah!!!! Now I have a reason to buy more stuff. Isn’t life grand?

Sunday, November 2, 2008

2008-11-02T20:07:00.000-08:00

Well it is time to get caught up. Beware there are a lot of pictures in this post, but a lot has happened in the past 3 weeks. Let me start with halloween. I love this holiday next to the 4th of July. It is the one time of the year you can dress up and not feel like a total dweeb....anything goes. Also the kids look sooooooo adorable in their outfits.

Jacinda and McCabe just before the ward party. McCabe is a lion and Jacinda is a princess (of course).

It is a family affair. Mom and dad joined in the fun. I am a nurse and Tim is a couch potato.

Now comes the pictures from our Las Vegas Trip. My side of the family was there because my dad was getting re-married and since Tim's side lives only 3 hours away, they came for a few days. It was like a family renunion with both sides of the family.

Tarra with a glamorous pucker pose.

Richard and Roxanne having a great time playing games at Excalibur.

The Johnsons having a friendly game of horse racing. Mimi was the winner and got a big stuffed shark.

Most of the grandkids on the Nalder's side of the family.

Dad and Gigi dancing at their reception.

Dad and Gigi during their wedding ceremony. It was fun to watch them. It took me back about 10 years when I got married. They were acting like young kids in love. At the end of the night dad and Gigi drove off riding a moped with pop cans tied on the back. It was a really fun night. Lots of yummy french cuisine. (Gigi is french.)

These next pictures are the Fisher's side of the family. We did a lot of walking and got a lot of funny looks. People would try to be discrete as they pointed and said, "look at all those kids." I guess people are not use to seeing parents with more than 1 child.

Taking it to the street.

Having a good time at the pool.

Grandma Fisher with McCabe and Jacinda.

Most of the Fisher grandkids in front of the fountain at the Paris hotel.

The Fisher gang. (Whoa!!! there are a lot of kids.)

Amy, Ethan, Soli, Lance, and Cade Stubbs.

Chris, Tricia, Ben, Jake, Lizzie, Caleb, and Aiden Fisher.

This trip was a blast. Thanks to everyone for making it so memorable.

For more photos of the Fisher side go to:

http://sprintindirectsales.com/Fisher_Vegas_Trip_08.wmv

For more photos of the Nalder side go to:

http://sprintindirectsales.com/Nalder_Vegas_Trip_2008.wmv

Sunday, October 12, 2008

2008-10-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

Growing up birthdays were never exciting or special. I lived vicariously through my friends and what their parents did for them on their birthdays. As I got older, I carried this boring birthday attitude with me. However, that all changed this year. I was so happy to get a year older and to celebrate another year on this earth.

I had a great birthday. I was really looking forward to this one considering that at one moment I thought cancer (and now the chemo) might have taken my life. Tim surprised me with a 90 minute hot stone therapy massage (yesssssss!). It was fabulous. For any of you who really want to relax that is the way to go. It is so much better than a regular massage. He also took me to the cheesecake factory for a birthday dinner and did not embarrass me by having the serving staff sing. I swear each year with him gets better and better. I got lots of phone calls, e-mails, and cards. Thanks to all of you. It is nice to be remembered and recognized.

I saw the oncologist this past week. He is very excited about my progress and good health. I had a few minor complaints about pain but he said that it is normal and that even healthy people have aches and pains (one point for Dr. Nichols). I guess I am super cautious about my body. I am learning not to be such a hypochondriac.

McCabe is learning to pray. He does such a good job at folding his arms, however, if there is a yummy piece of food he will fold one arm and eat with the other. Oh he makes me laugh. When he repeats a prayer everything is, “ma.” “Thanks for daddy,” “ma..” “Thanks for the food,” “ma..” You get the picture. One of these days I am going to record it.

Can you say “viva Las Vegas?” My dad is getting married October 26. We will be there and make that trip into a family vacation. Vegas is not my favorite place, however, I found a bunch of kid friendly activities to do there. I just hope we don’t see any smut while walking on the strip. If so, I guess it is a good time to make it into a learning experience.

Conference was great!!! The older I get the more I enjoy it. I was really touched when the children were singing during the Saturday afternoon session. I lost it as they sang “I Am a Child of God.” It made me think about my infancy state in the sight of God. Yes I think I know so much, but I am just a child when it comes to God’s knowledge. The words really touched me. I need moments like that. I also enjoyed the talk about angels sent to help us whether they be mortal or spiritual. This talk made me reflect on the moment where Christ was suffering for all the sins of the world. He was in agonizing pain and our loving Heavenly Father sends an angel to comfort him. I am grateful that God really loves us and will send us help when we need it. I am so glad that God is in charge.

Thursday, October 2, 2008

2008-10-02T10:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Mom!!! We love you.

Sunday, September 28, 2008

2008-09-28T11:39:00.000-07:00

Ok so it is time to catch up with the Fishers. It has been two weeks since my last posting. I didn't think that my weeks were that exciting or that anything new had happened.....until I looked at the pictures. McCabe has started sleeping in a toddler bed. He is very wiggly, thank goodness for a side guard. He still likes to sleep in his crib from time to time so that remains in his room also.

McCabe originally was put to bed with his head in the opposiste direction.

The kids like to help me with the chores, especially cleaning the lint screen. They have their own special way of doing it.

(monkey see, monkey do!!)

Yes my kids keep me laughing. McCabe discovered a new trick all by himself.

I pray that the pretzel never breaks.

The week ended with a little beach/camping excursion. Okay so it is only the Columbia river and not really the beach, nevertheless, we had a great time. We made ice cream and peach cobbler. (yummy!!)

Tim doing a little reading while Jacinda smiles for a quick picture.

Myself and the kids exploring and playing on the sand.

Denise and I are intrigued by a story told around the campfire.

Sunday, September 14, 2008

2008-09-14T21:26:00.000-07:00

Jacinda and McCabe eating a cookie on the deck, chatting, and looking at the birds.

I am glad this week is over for busy sake. However I had some incredible experiences. First off my kids are....well I am at a loss of words. They have this magical charisma about them that makes me constantly smile. First off, Jacinda impresses me with the things she says and what she picks up on while overhearing a conversation. She is asking a lot of questions. The other day while watching Legacy, Tim pointed out early saint missionaries. She asked, "where are there name tags?" Jacinda is much smarter than I ever expected a 3-year-old to be, and McCabe is at a wonderful stage in life. He is absorbing everything and making connections and expressing who he is. Lately he is big into saying bike ("bi") and spider ("spi"). His reactions are full of excitement and shrill (a lot like his mother).

We like to take full advantage of the good weather. One of our favorite past times is to feed the ducks at the lake. McCabe gets so excited and then overwhelmed. By the end of the feeding he is clinging to my legs trying to kick away all the ducks.

The second incredible experience this past week was realizing that I am a spiritual being having a mortal experience, not a mortal having spiritual experiences. I have heard this pearl of wisdom in the past but never really cemented it in my mind until yesterday.

So what does this pearl of wisdom mean to me? I will tell you. I will go through this life encountering social pressures, physical ailments, financial ups and downs and other occurrences that will try to throw my character. However one fact remains, I was a spirit before this life and when I die that same spirit will separate from my body and continue to live on with other spirits. Having this knowledge makes me realize that there needs to be a strong emphasis on developing, cultivating, and perfecting the spirit rather than mortal issues. Yes I believe there should be a fine balance of living in the world also, but sometimes too much emphasis is placed on being of the world (i.e. having a fast car, being beautiful, making lots of money, etc…). I am grateful for the perspective of being a spiritual daughter and recognizing that the “work and the glory (of God) is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.” Moses 1:39

I must never forget that I am a child of God!

Sunday, September 7, 2008

2008-09-07T21:11:00.001-07:00

This past week was busy. First off, Jacinda burned her chin on a tray of rolls. She was so curious to see them but got too close. Well it is nothing a band-aid can't fix right? Then McCabe accidentally head butts her in the nose. There was no blood just pain. Once again it is something a band-aid can fix. So after applying the band-aids I had to get a picture. I am surprised I could hold the camera still while laughing.

(Future beauty queen here!!)

Jacinda also had her first day of pre-school this past week. She loves school. The first picture is her before school; the second picture is Jacinda displaying her hat she made in school. I hope she never loses her zest for learning. She is still asking for homework. At the moment, she is learning her letters. I hope she can spell her name by the end of the school year. I don't think this is a huge expectation right? You seasoned parents will need to let me know.

One item I should mention, Jacinda does not have separation issues. She went like a champ to pre-school that first day. Now McCabe, we are working with him. Though he is only 19 months nursery is a little tough for him. He cries every time the door opens and closes. He also gets so tired even though he takes a 2 hour nap before church. I don't know how long this will last but I know it will end all too soon.

Today was a special day. Tim was ordained a high priest by Dennis Barkley (next to Tim in the picture) and set apart as second counselor to the bishop. I am very proud of him. He is a hard worker yet is well balanced with a great personality (fantastic features) and an incredible amount of spirituality. He is going to do a fantastic job.

I learned how to can this past week and I love it. My first project was peaches. It was so exciting. (Pretty sad when canning gets me enthused.) I am canning raspberry jam Thursday and hopefully get to do apple pie filling over the weekend. Canning rocks and it is the season. I guess I have the domestic bug!!

Protect Marriage

2008-09-03T13:20:00.000-07:00

This is directly copied off of Steve and Camilla Rasmussen's blog. They live in California and this November have the opportunity to vote to protect marriage. This is a huge issue that all should be made aware of because it will be just a moment of time before the state in which you live will encounter this same issue. Please read

Protect Marriage

Six Consequences the Coalition Has Identified If Proposition 8 Fails

1. Children in public schools will have to be taught that same-sex marriage is just as good as traditional marriage.The California Education Code already requires that health education classes instruct children about marriage. (51890)
Therefore, unless Proposition 8 passes, children will be taught that marriage is between any two adults regardless of gender. There will be serious clashes between the secular school system and the right of parents to teach their children their own values and beliefs.

2. Churches may be sued over their tax exempt status if they refuse to allow same-sex marriage ceremonies in their religious buildings open to the public. Ask whether your pastor, priest, minister, bishop, or rabbi is ready to perform such marriages in your chapels and sanctuaries.

3. Religious adoption agencies will be challenged by government agencies to give up their long-held right to place children only in homes with both a mother and a father. Catholic Charities in Boston already closed its doors in Massachusetts because courts legalized same-sex marriage there.

4.Religions that sponsor private schools with married student housing may be required to provide housing for same-sex couples, even if counter to church doctrine, or risk lawsuits over tax exemptions and related benefits.

5.Ministers who preach against same-sex marriages may be sued for hate speech and risk government fines. It already happened in Canada, a country that legalized gay marriage. A recent California court held that municipal employees may not say: “traditional marriage”, or “family values” because, after the same-sex marriage case, it is “hate speech”.

6. It will cost you money. This change in the definition of marriage will bring a cascade of lawsuits, including some already lost (e.g. photographers cannot now refuse to photograph gay marriages, doctors cannot now refuse to perform artificial insemination of gays even given other willing doctors). Even if courts eventually find in favor of a defender of traditional marriage (highly improbable given today’s activist judges), think of the money – your money — that will be spent on such legal battles.

And think of all the unintended consequences that we cannot even foresee at this time. Where will it end? It’s your children, your grandchildren, your money, and your liberties. Lets work together to protect them. Join with us in walking precincts and phoning voters to vote Yes on Prop. 8.

Sunday, August 31, 2008

2008-08-31T18:57:00.000-07:00

Summer is fizziling out at the Fisher household. Jacinda starts Pre-school Tuesday. She is super excited. Everyday she is asking for homework. I love her enthusiasm but she is only 3, she will have plenty of years of homework. So in the meantime I find little work sheets for her so she can practice drawing her letters. I am actually really impressed with her steady hand. She does a good job.

I found some pictures of our summer. I just want to re-cap some of the moments before summer is officially gone.

Hanging out with the cousins in Utah. We loved seeing the Squires and the Johnsons. They made our summer so much fun.

A nice picture of the Fishers and the Johnsons sitting on benches at the Canyons resort in Park City, Utah. Take a moment and notice Quinn standing in the front. He looks like a 5-year-old rapper striking a pose. That kid cracks me up. The next picture is Jacinda with her cousin Clark Johnson taking a pony ride. This is the evening of July 24th--pioneer day. Since we were in Utah, we were celebrating with the cousins. Mimi's neighbors have horses and ponies. They got them out and let the kids ride them a few times before the fireworks were lit. (That was AWESOME!)

While in Twin Falls Idaho we went to the temple open house. I guess we should not be facing the sun because we are all squinting in the picture. In fact, this was the only semi-decent picture of my family in front of the temple. The other 4 pictures we are shading our eyes or wiping away the tears from the intense sunlight. After the open house, there was a refreshment center with a beautiful showing of all the temples. We told Jacinda to stand next to a temple picture so we could get a photo. Here she is next to the Germany temple.

Ok so I am a little over cautious when it comes to protection from the sun. The majority of the summer I had on tons of sunblock, a hat, and sunglasses. After what I have been through....can you blame me? This next picture is Tim and McCabe taking a gondola ride in Park City, Utah. McCabe was unsure of the ride but once daddy held him he was just fine.

This is one of the kids absolute favorite things to do. We are making cookies and yes that is cookie dough (with an egg substitute). I am totally embarassed because I know better, however, how can I say no to the kids when daddy is shoveling spoonfuls of it in his mouth.

Ah yes....what is a summer without crafts? This is a visor that Jacinda decorated with stickers. Note it is 1/4 of the way completed. By the time Jacinda was done, she had so many stickers on her visor she could have decorated 6 visors with her one.

I love this picture. Look close. This is Jacinda's way of saying "I love you," in sign language. We keep telling her that her thumb needs to be out but she refuses. Well ok then little one. I love you too and keep ROCKING ON!!

Summer fun at the "beach." We love bar-b-ques and splashing in the water.

The kids love soaking up the rays and posing for the camera.

My summer fun is watching Tim. He is hot!!! (I know my sisters are rolling their eyes right now but what did you expect? Hey it's me.)

Saturday, August 23, 2008

2008-08-23T22:24:00.000-07:00

Funny thing happend today. As I was walking into the house I was startled by a small snake. Normally I would not pick up any snake, but I knew my kids would love it. So after about 7 minutes of chasing this silly little snake I picked it up and immediately the muscles in my arms locked stretched out in front of me. There is no way I was going to hold it close. I walked into the bathroom and the kids were taking a bath. I showed Tim and well the pictures tell the rest of the story.

Tim with the snake.

Close up of the snake.

Tim showing the kids the snake.

Oops! The snake fell into the water. The kids squeal and swim/move for cover.

I felt bad for that little snake. When we finally got him out he was breathing so fast. It looked like his little sides were going to burst. I took him to the front yard and let him go. Jacinda wanted him to stay but I know better. Bottom line, snakes are not pets!! (At least not for this gal.)

Thursday, August 21, 2008

2008-08-21T00:25:00.000-07:00

So I had a pleasant surprise, Laura Fager dropped by my house on Saturday. I have not seen her in 10 years. I've known her since high school. I was amazed at how much she has changed and grown. She had some really neat life experiences. She served a mission in Brazil and completed her B.S. in nutrition. She works at BYU as the catering events coordinator. She looks really good and seems happy. We got to go to the temple and do a session. Unfortunately she had to leave the next day so it was a short but pleasant visit. Time has been very good to her.

I feel really healthy and strong. My port is gone, now I can relax. I got really tired of the kids accidentally bumping it. No worries now. I was going through some pictures and founds some I wanted to share. I love my family. They make me so happy. In fact, Jacinda said to me the other day, "mom, why are you doing your hair like a boy?" I just laughed and told her that soon my hair will be long again. I tease her about getting a haircut like mine and she says, "no, my hair is long like Rapunzel's." Oh I just love it when she is so cute--it makes me want to kiss her face off.

Jacinda's and McCabe's favorite past time is to play with side walk chalk. They have a big cardboard box they call their "house" where they can decorate it all they want with chalk.

The summer is filled with lots of fun outdoor activities. This is Jacinda pretending to be a monkey. She makes one of the best and loudest monkey imitations I have ever heard.

This is "stud" McCabe. Yes he looks chic, but don't let that fool you. As you can see below he is still in touch with his feminine side.

Saturday, August 9, 2008

2008-08-09T19:54:00.001-07:00

I am very excited because now it seems official that the cancer is gone. I got my port removed on Wednesday. It was a 20 minute procedure that entailed numbing the area, cutting it open, taking out the port, and stitching it back up the area. It was hard to go through the whole process and be awake (because I don’t like needles and blood), but Tim was there to hold my hand. However, after leaving the “surgery” room, I had to lay down on the lobby floor because my body was having some sort of vasoconstriction reaction. The nurse said it as common among patients. It is just my body’s way of reacting to the “trauma” or shock of what happened. For those who have never had this experience it goes something like this: your vision starts to blur and then the peripheral blacks out, your head gets really hot and your ears start to ring. Then your head cools down and you feel like you are going to faint or pass out. Needless to say I was wheeled out of the hospital. Once in the car I was fine.