Blogging Yvonne

Hello Again!

2011-06-07T15:54:00.000-07:00

It's been a while...but here is a picture of Baby Em @ 3.5 months old. I don't know how many pounds she weighs, but its obvious she is pretty well fed! LOL

Life's been good, busy with the three monkeys but good. Currrently, we are gearing up for Baby Em's upcoming red egg and ginger party, Baby C's preschool graduation and play, then Baby C's FIFTH birthday party, crazy summer schedules, and prepping for kindergarten in the fall...yikes!

Until my next free moments...

My Litttle Swimmer!

2011-05-12T21:47:00.000-07:00

I am so proud of my little swimmer! She earned yet another ribbon today. This one for swimming breaststroke 10 yards. Yipee! We hope to finish off her Advanced Preschool pages before the end of the session. Then we will be taking a break from once a week swim lessons and trying out a couple of 4x/week, 2 week sessions in the summertime at another facility. I am hoping the more intense lessons will help bher kick it up a notch!

Hungover?

2011-05-12T21:41:00.000-07:00

Welcome Baby Em!

2011-04-21T14:51:00.001-07:00

Oh goodness...my friend IT just made me realize that i have not updated my blog in a loooong time...so i am doing a quick entry to alleviate my mama guilt...and to welcome our latest addition...Baby Em! Born Feb 16 @ 4:35am, 7 lbs, 3oz. I'll try to upload the birth announcement later if i fire up my laptop (which is rare these days due to iPad obsession)

Here is a quick mobile picture of Baby Em today @ 9 weeks old. She is already growing up too fast. She is very accomodating of her wacky sister and sleeps decently...although mama can always use a few more consecutive hours...!

Juggling three has been a challenge to say the least...esp with Baby C's activity schedule...but thank goodness i get some reprive when the big girls are at school MWF. I am grateful to be able to stay home with them although sometimes my sanity pays the price. Daddy J has been very supportive and is an excellent father to the girls. I am one lucky chick!

Anyhoo signing off for now, hopefully not for another 6 months! ;-)

Sent from my HTC smartphone on the Now Network from Sprint!

Been MIA

2011-01-15T16:16:00.001-08:00

Sorry been so MIA...i think i need to seriously quit FB in order to get back to blogging. Oh wells. With the pending arriving of #3...i doubt if i will have much time for anything except quick posts to FB and the blog.

Quick update - Baby C is almost four and a half...and Baby B is two. We recently started Baby B at the same preschool as C...same days but only half day. I figured with her clingyness, i had better transition her so she can spend some time away from me before the baby arrives. Besides...mama needs some time to tame the chaos which i call my home...i need to nest big time.

The hours in which both girls are in school are very short, so i am not getting much "relaxing" in during the last few months of my pregnancy, but instead i find myself rushing around like a mad woman trying to make the most of the precious kid-free hours.

Anyhoo...thats all i can think of right now...not much going on, just chugging along...tick tock...countdown to baby arriving begins!

Happy 2nd Birthday Baby B!

2010-11-21T23:15:00.000-08:00

OK, bad mama is a few days late, but Happy 2nd Birthday to my Baby B! We had a small party for her at the Sulphur Creek Nature Center in Hayward. Its not a fancy facility, but the kids had a blast! We really lucked out and the weather was beautiful for November, so the kids got to run around inside and out and enjoy all the animals at Sulphur Creek.

We chose three animals (rosy boa snake, box turtle, and duck) and a craft for the "animal presentation". All the kids stayed on their carpet squares during the presentation and enjoyed the craft too! We could not ask for a better celebration!

Baby C's Purple Belt

2010-10-16T18:03:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Baby C for earning her purple belt last night! Here is a picture after her belt test with Grand Master Pallen.

My Tough Fairy

2010-10-16T18:01:00.000-07:00

Baby B is always trying to keep up with the big kids. Her mind runs faster than her little legs can take her...which usually results in BONK! Here is latest boo-boo @ 23 months.

More Random Baby B @ 20 Months

2010-07-14T15:43:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture of Baby B chewing on a baby octopus on a recent trip to Little Sheep Hot Pot. After some help, she bit off the head, chewed a bit, and eventually spit it out. But at least she tried!

Two random Baby B-isms today...i figure I better write this down somewhere before I forget! =)

I dropped a can of soda on my toe today and yelled out "OWWW!". Baby B walks over and says "Tay? Tay? Tay?" I finally figured out she was asking me if I was "OK".

As I was putting her shoes on in preparation to go out, I burped. She looks at me and says "ME!" ...as in "say excuse me", as she has often heard us say to her big sis.

Too funny, I guess she is developing some empathy and manners? Or maybe she is just very observant and is a good imitator. =)

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Baby C @ Almost 4...

2010-07-10T16:32:00.001-07:00

My first baby girl turns four in less than 2 weeks! I know it's cliche, but time sure does fly. First I can't believe I will be a mom of a four year old, and second, I can't believe we survived parenthood for 4 years!!! Whew! It's been quite a ride!

Baby C has been flourishing @ preschool and @ all the activities she is participating in. For the summer, her crazy schedule each week consists of 2 full days of preschool, gymnastics X2, soccer, karate X2, and a swim class. We also did one week of wildlife camp @ Sulphur Creek, and will be doing one week of VBS at a local church with a "Finding Nemo" theme this year.

Sometimes I think I am overscheduling her, but she truly enjoys all her extra activities. For example, we traded dance for soccer this summer, and she keeps on asking why we are not taing dance, and how much she misses it, etc. During the wildlife camp week, she kept on asking about all her other activities she was missing because she was @ camp that week. Honestly, I want her NOT like something so that we can cut it out of the schedule! So far, no luck.

We are thinking of changing Baby C's preschool for her Pre-K year (coming up in Sept). We want to switch her from a play based program to a Montessori program. I guess I am feeling the pressure of kindergarten and "real school", and I want her to be as prepared as possible. We already know that she has the social skills to survive in a school environment, now, I want to concentrate on the academics...i know sounds a bit hardcore...cuz afterall, she's only 4 for gosh sake! But I feel like education is the one thing no one can take from you, and I want my kids to be well educated and successful...and it's never too early to start. =)

I am also busy planning Baby C's birthday party next weekend. ithis year's "Dinosaur Train" theme should be fun. I don't really have many details, but hope to pull it all together this week!

Anyhoo, that's all I can think of for Baby C. I guess I might need to stop calling her "Baby C" soon, because she is def not a baby anymore...!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Baby B @ 19 Months

2010-07-01T14:21:00.000-07:00

Baby B growing up so darn fast! Her verbal and motor skills are improving day by day. In addition to signing a number of words, she can also say them too now. I won't list them all, cuz frankly my brain is too fried, but there are very few times that we can't decipher what she wants. Her comphrehension is excellent, she understands like 95% of what we are saying to her. Whether she complies, that is another story...! =)

Speaking of wants, she is...how do I say...um, very passionate about her wants! She is a very expressive little girl and a persistent lil bugger. Haha! She definitely gets her way often. Poor big sis even has to concede sometime, but we make it up to her in other "big girl" ways. =)

She is still a bit clingy, but in general pretty independent. She is also getting better at solo-play, which is super helpful when I am trying to get stuff done...ahhh!

The sisterly "battles continue and I am still referee, but I am going to try to let them work it out by themselves more since B's verbal skills are improving, and her motor skills are getting better (so she can fight back). But honestly, I don't know if it's because I've got two girls are what, but they can be so mentally draining. Their "fights" start off mental, then can get physical...but I am sure it's not as bad as with boys. =)

B's night time sleep has improved. I try to get her in bed by 800-830 and she usually wakes by 700-730. Daytime (short) naps continue to be in the car...sigh. Bedtime routines are still all me because I am still nursing her, just at night. She's lasting longer that Baby C did (@ 17 months), but I think that's cuz B has just been more clingy overall.

Anyhoo, that's my update...or at least everything I can think of at the moment! I'll try to do a Baby C update soon!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Life Gets Crazy(er)

2010-06-30T14:36:00.000-07:00

Oh neglected blog of mine...I am so sorry I have been ignoring you. Life has been super hectic with 2 girls running amuck and driving me nuts.

Here is an update photo of the girls ...just so my account stays active. Hah! =)

Will return soon...i promise.

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Toddler Sparring

2010-05-09T21:41:00.000-07:00

Baby C has been taking karate for about 5 months and there is an intramural tournament coming up at the dojo. Unfortunately we will be out of town, but the past few weeks, the instructors have been practicing "flag sparring" with Baby C's class. At this age group, there is no contact. Instead, one tried to take the other person's flag.

Here is a picture of Baby C with a sparring partner. She is the tiny one on the left of the orange cone. In this drill, you are supposed to "bounce" around the cone twice, then try to go for the other person's red flag (which is tucked into their belt/pants). You are supposed to use blocks and such when your opponent is coming at you. And shout out a victorious KEEYAH when you grab your opponent's flag and hoist it above your head. No grabbing, running, chasing, etc. Of course with 3.5 - 6 year olds, the rules are not always followed...

Watching them practice really cracks me up...here are these little people with big helmets bouncing around...it really hilarious. In fact I am smirking right now just thinking about it. LOL

Unfortunately, Baby C is the smallest in her class and tends to always get her flags taken...probably cuz her arms are shorter, etc. She got a little discouraged at first, but hopefully she will regain some confidence after some more practice. =)

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Leapfrog Kidlab

2010-05-06T14:23:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I brought Baby B to Leapfrog Kidlab to test out some new toys. Baby C has participated before, but this is Baby B's first time.

I love seeing/testing new products/toys. Baby C actually tested the TAG Jr and Text n' Learn before it came out. This time, Baby B tested this new picnic basket toy they are developing. It was very cute. The basket talked and sang reciting the alphabet, phonics, numbers, cute phrases, etc. It also had picnic items inside with shape sorting, etc.

We have many Leapfrog products in our house, and after out Leapfrog trip, we have one more! For our time, we received a Leapfrog birthday cake toy. It's pretty darn cool because you can light the candles and blow them out. Really, it senses your breathe and the candle lights go out! I think this will be one of my "go-to" toys for first birthday presents! Both girls love it...a bit too much in fact, I was playing referee all afternoon andalmost had to give the toy a time out! Geez! =)

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Hi-Lights Lo-Lights

2010-05-04T19:22:00.000-07:00

I just started highlighting my hair again after a post-kid hiatus due to maintenance laziness. This time I wanted to go lighter because summer was coming up.

My new hairdresser sure went blond! The color itself I liked, and we were doing chunkier highlights to give it more impact/less maintenance, but there was this huge chunk at the side of my face that made it really obvious.

So...she had to do a do-over to tone down a few strips and all was good!

This was the first time I brought Baby C to the salon with me and it was a longer appointment but she did really good. She waited patiently AND complimented my hair color, even when it looked like I was going on the Blond Ambition Tour. Mama so proud! =)

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Tobiko Monster

2010-04-24T20:37:00.000-07:00

Baby B's new thing now is tobiko. We tried to just pick the tobiko off our sushi rolls for her, but alas they were mostly covered by spicy sauce.

So...we just ordered her her own bowl! She only ate half of it, but that's pretty darn good for a 17 month old! =)

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Me & C in the Air

2010-04-24T19:53:00.000-07:00

We hit the Oakland Zoo today and Baby B fell asleep on the way there, so we parked and Baby C and I got to spend some one on one time @ the zoo before B woke up.

Besides checking out a few animals, we got to ride the air tram ride. It's only open on weekends and we don't usually come on weekends. I am also uneasy about taking sqiurmy B on the ride because it's a long way down! There was no line @ the time so it was perfect.

The scenery was great, the weather beautiful, and both Baby C and I enjoyed the relaxing ride and seeing the animals from the air.

Although I was a bit worried about losing my flip flops, Baby C's crocs, and dropping my camera and phone as I try to capture these moments. LOL =)...other than that, fun times!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

2010-04-24T19:42:00.001-07:00

Here's a picture of Baby B (im)patiently waiting for her grilled cheese sandwich to cool.

There is just something so comforting about this ooey gooey goodness!

This one is made with plain American cheese, I also like cheddar, but any other cheese suggestions to jazz it up?

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Sharing? What's that?!

2010-04-15T20:30:00.001-07:00

Here is a picture of Baby B hogging my papaya juice. I think she does understand the concept of sharing, but alas only does it on HER terms.

So what does that mean? It means that mama was standing in the parking lot with B's door open, waiting for a while until B was done with her sips and "shared" the drink with me so I could get in my seat and drive. =P

But with a face like that, how could you be mad? =) Plus I know she is still in the process of learning...

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

A Walking Paradox

2010-04-14T07:22:00.000-07:00

Baby B is a fun little toddler. Her independence is growing and her personality is becoming more apparent each day. She is:

- Strong-willed, yet compliant.
- Clingy, yet independent.
- Wants to play, yet is tired and fights sleep.
- Is so darn cute, yet can be so mean to her sister sometimes!

But I guess all toddlers are contradictory...its part of the growing /development process and definity keeps things interesting!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Monterey Bay Aquarium

2010-04-12T23:37:00.000-07:00

Back in February, we took a weekend trip down to Monterey for some aquarium fun. We try to go at least 1-2 times a year, the last time we were there was back in Sept 09. It's always a good weekend getaway, especially when we've been there before, so we don't feel compelled to cover the entire aquarium in one day. The next time we go, we'll probably try just a day trip to see if it works out.

We did not take too many pictures inside the aquarium because the lighting is so tricky, but I did manage to get a cute picture of the girls inside a "penguin egg".

We had lunch at the Red House Cafe, recommended by my cousin. It is literally a red house - cozy and yummy. Dining with two kids is always an adventure.

We visited the Monarch Grove Santuary, but it was too late in the year to see the butterflies...I guess we'll try to catch them next time in the grove.

We went on the beautiful 17- mile drive. It was my first time and all I have to say is that I wish I would win the lotto, and I love me some California coastline!

We stopped and took some pictures at the "Lone Cypress" - a long time symbol of the Pebble Beach Golf Course.

While enjoying the scenery, two curious squirrels came out to play. These two ladies fed them some Cheez-it crackers, it was pretty cute. Baby C even got to feed them a couple, although I am not sure we were being responsible parents by allowing it since they technically are wild, right? Oh wells, they were very cute. =)

We stopped for lunch at the Pebble Beach Resort. Daddy J visit the pro-shop, and we walked around a bit on the grounds. What a pretty place.

And finally, a Monterey trip would not be complete without a stop @ the Dennis the Menace Park! Both girls got to enjoy the park this time. Fun times!

Disney On Ice - Worlds of Fantasy

2010-04-12T22:51:00.000-07:00

Back in March, we went to a Disney On Ice show at the Oracle Arena. We've been to other Disney On Ice shows, but they were mostly very girly and princessy. This one was cool because it had something for boys and girls - Cars, Little Mermaid, Lion King and Tinkerbell...although the girly parts were longer, especially with the Tinkerbell finale. We had a luxury suite again, filled it with friends, and had a great time!

There was a "princess pre-show", where everyone can walk through a hallway and view the princess dresses on display, and the "finale" was a live princess from "Princess and the Frog" - Disney's newest creation.

Here is Baby C and one of her BFF's, AH with Ariel's dress.

Belle's dress of course, too bad Baby B was not there yet (Daddy J was napping her before the show, so we arrived separately)

The girls with their show programs, excited about the show starting!

The show starts!

Thank goodness for the luxury suites with restless kids!

They started the show off with Cars. Baby C was SUPER excited.

Daddy J and Baby B enjoying the show...I think.

Here is the Little Mermaid segment with a bubbles-filled finale.

The beginning of the Lion King segment...you know, the tragic scene...

This is the best we could do to get a group photo of the kids...sigh. =)

Stinson Beach

2010-04-12T22:17:00.000-07:00

We took the opportunity on a rare eventless Sunday and drove to Stinson Beach. It's been many many years since I've visited. I got a bit nosh on the windy drive there (first time for everything I guess) and it was a bit chilly, but the sun was shining bright and we had a great time. Here are some pictures to share. =)

Max enjoying some time outdoors. He was kinda timid with other dogs at first, but warmed up quickly. He didn't like the water much, but ran up to the waves and back.

Baby B enjoyed her first time @ the beach.

Baby C loves the sand.

Baby B loved the sand too. We only had one bucket, so I had to get creative.

Perfect weather for flying some kites.

Daddy J and Max, my two handsome dudes.

A girl and her best friend on the beach. =)

Rainy Days

2010-04-12T21:20:00.000-07:00

It's been a wet couple of weeks on and off. Trotting around with 2 kids in tow is not much fun, but we managed to keep up our busy activity schedule. Here are some pics of the girls in the rain...kinda. =)

Can't wait to see all the spring flowers all these showers bring!

Friday Night Dessert @ Zuckersuss

2010-04-09T23:27:00.000-07:00

Went out for sushi and went for some froyo for dessert. We went to a local place in Hayward called Zuckersuss. The place was started by two UCB grads and touts all natural yogurt and a variety of toppings.

I was being my cheesy self and was taking pics of our froyo and ourselves for FB food porn when the cashier (and I think part-owner) offered to take a picture of all four of us. I was thrilled to have a family photo because they are so rare. He took one shot and it turned out great, all of us were looking! Woot!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Babyproofing

2010-04-08T19:58:00.001-07:00

Baby C was trying to be helpful by helping me babyproof the kitchen. =)

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Spring Break @ Super Franks

2010-04-06T15:49:00.000-07:00

This week is spring break, so besides swim class on Wed, all of Baby C's activities/classes/preschool are all on break. We spent a couple of hours @ my third home, Super Franks on Monday and Tuesday.

On Monday, we met up with our out of town cousins and on Tuesday, we made last minute plans with one of Baby C's BFFs to play. People swear I go there ALL THE TIME, but honestly I have not ben there all winter...since January. =)

The rest of the week should be SF-free. The weather is supposed to be nice, so I hope to hit the zoo, spend some playtime @ home/park, and maybe even hit up the Lindsay Wildlife Museum in Walnut Creek.

Baby C and one of her BFF's, AH, having a blast together.

Crazy cuz most households have two working parents...what do they do about breaks like this during school if they don't have family to step in? I guess maybe one of them has to take a week off to be with the kid(s)...or send them to camps? Same goes with the long summer break...Camps? Summer school? Even if they have random activities, kids still need a chaffeur! =) It can get pretty pricey! Yikes!

Here is Baby B playing with her cousin OC.

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Easter Dresses

2010-04-05T23:21:00.000-07:00

The girls actually did not wear their "Easter" dresses on Easter because we were just hanging out at the house because the weather was so crappy. BUT here are a few pictures of them at Baby C's buddy's MO's 4th birthday party a few weeks back, which was Easter themed! It was an awesome party with a juggler, face-painter/balloon lady, build-a-bear, a caricaturist, an egg hunt and even a visit form the Easter bunny! It was a perfect spring day for the festivities. The kids had a blast, and so did we!

Baby C's and here buddy, MO, the birthday girl!

Baby B and the birthday girl...not sure what they are doing...? Dancing?

Baby C and the Easter Bunny.

Baby B on the egg hunt.

Daddy J and the girls on the grass after the egg hunt with all their loot!

Baby B about to float away with the balloons after the party.

Baby C's First Swimming Ribbon!

2010-04-05T22:58:00.001-07:00

I am so proud of Baby C. She earned her first preschool swim ribbon a couple of weeks ago. To earn her ribbon, she had to complete the following:

- Get in/out of the water safely
- 1+ "bob(s)"
- Assisted back float
- Underwater 3+ seconds
- Reach, grab wall, climb out

Pretty basic stuff and she will definitely need to do more to earn the next ribbon, but a great start to building water skills and confidence!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Hoppy Easter!

2010-04-05T22:26:00.001-07:00

We had J's cousins (from New Jersey and San Francisco) over for Easter. We had 6 adults and 5 kids under 4 running amuck in the house. It was quite an adventure. It was also storming outside, so we had an egg hunt in our living room. It was fun to see all the cousins play together.

I went a little overboard with the baskets...sigh.

Here is a picture of the kids waiting for the egg hunt...you can slice the anticipation with a knife! HAH!

Baby B analyzing her loot.

Four out of five kids ain't bad, right?

We got all five kids in one picture!...not all of them looking @ the camera, but hey, we'll take what we can get!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Bijou - Clubbin' in the Burbs?

2010-04-05T14:37:00.000-07:00

After some sleep drama with the B Monster last Friday night (it never fails when I wanna go out), I met up with my buddy EW for a foot reflexology session ($25 for 70 minutes andopen til 10pm FTW!!) and then drinks @ Bijou in Hayward. I heard rumors that Bijou converts into a club after hours, but I was not sure if they did that on Friday nights, so we just went there with the intention of grabbing some drinks and hanging out.

When we arrived @ 1030pm, it was pretty hopping. It was a pretty diverse crowd in terms of age, ethnicity and music. We met an old college friend ML there too. It's been a long time since we saw each other. Needless to say we did not get much conversation in @ Bijou, but dang we had a good time! We partied like...well...like we DIDN'T in college. LOL.

And yes, those are kamikaze shots...thought it was appropriate since the last time I had one was IN college!

My friend EW jokingly said that partying in the burbs was not so bad! Plus the foot reflexology session/dancing combo was perfect! I hope we'll be doing it again soon! ;)

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Peepshi!

2010-04-05T14:21:00.001-07:00

Peeps + sushi = Peepshi!

Saw an article with instructions on how to make peepshi with Peeps, Rice Crispie Treats, and Fruit by the Foot. Awesome concept and I really wanted to make them but did not have time before Easter. So I bought all the ingredients for my little mother's helpers and they made some and dropped off a plate to me!

They are a total sugar overload but actually taste pretty good. The fruit strip helps to cut the sweetness. =)

A couple of my friends made them too, it's def the year of the peepshi! Maybe I'll actually make them next year if I have more time.

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Holy Hail Batman!

2010-04-05T13:57:00.000-07:00

We got pelted this morning with a sudden hailstorm. It was pretty amazing. It's been a weird 2 weeks with extreme sunshine and then extreme storms and cold. Spring is off to a weird start!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Grandparents are for Spoiling

2010-03-28T16:23:00.000-07:00

Sunday afternoon...inlaws are over for a visit, Baby C is looking through the Toys R Us Sunday ad and spots these walking/swimming puppies in the ad. Next thing you know, they are all loaded in the car on the way to Toys R Us and come home with 2 new puppies for $50 (on sale! Geez!) This is the first time the inlaws have bought them toys, and I guess it's good to spoil them sometimes...i just hope Baby C is not expecting to get a new toy from the Sunday TRU ad everytime they are over! =P

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Spring Has (Almost) Sprung!

2010-03-17T15:13:00.000-07:00

I don't think spring officially starts till this weekend, but this warm weather and DST sure makes me feel like spring is already here.

Here's a picture of the girls enjoying the warm weather and water table.

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2010-03-13T17:35:00.000-08:00

OK, we are kinda early, but we enjoyed a beautiful afternoon @ the Dublin St. Patrick's Day Festival. We enjoyed some fresh kettle corn, explored cool booths, rode rides and say some neat river/celtic dancing. Dublin does a great job with the festival, kinda like Day on the Glen, but more "green". Fun times!

Gonna get my corned beef and cabbage on come Wednesday!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Baby C @ 3.5 Years Old

2010-03-11T21:16:00.000-08:00

Baby C signing all her Valentines for preschool. She claimed her hand hurt after a couple and needed a break. HA!

OMG...I started this draft like a month+ ago and am JUST getting back to it. Bad mama!

Baby C on her new Ni Hao Kai-Lan trike.

Baby C turned 3.5 in January and is developing quite a personality. Her language and comprehension skills have grown by leaps and bounds. Sometimes she talks about things with such maturity, that Daddy J and I are just staring at each other with our jaws dropped...wondering who the heck replaced our precious baby with this GIRL!?

She's got big boots to fill!

Baby C is continuing to attend preschool twice a week, full days. On the other days we usually have activities or play-dates scheduled with friends. Currently she is taking gymnastics, karate, ballet/tap, swim, Chinese school on Saturdays and occasionally nature classes at Sulphur Creek. It kinda sounds like a lot of activities, but classes for this age group only range from 25 minutes (gymnastics class) to 55 minutes (tap/ballet/acrobatics combo dance class). Baby C seems to love it all - there has not been one class she has not liked. I guess we will have to wait to see what her "niche" is. And when she starts regular school, we obviously will need to drop some of these activities for time sake!

Baby C showing off her KEE-YAA! She just earned her yellow belt. Woot!

Claire has really developed into this wonderful, caring, cute, smart, charismatic, loving, insanely cute little girl. Its probably the blind-love parent in me that finds Claire so wonderful but both Daddy J and I are proud and lucky to have her in our lives.

All Ready To Go Gai Gai!

2010-03-02T12:25:00.000-08:00

Here's a picture of Baby B all ready to go out with purse on arm. I am always amazed at all the little things she picks up from the world. I don't even use a purse these days...maybe she picked it from her sister?

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Orange Bear

2010-03-02T12:11:00.000-08:00

Went to dinner @ Samurai Sushi Boat last night in Oakland. My cousin JR recommended it, plus I thought the kids would get a kick out of the moving food.

The food was decent although I think I still prefer our usual Grand Ave haunt - Mijori.

Here is a picture of our "dessert". Japanese people are always so creative!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Tootsie Roll

2010-02-28T22:16:00.000-08:00

Baby B found a tootsie roll from Baby C's Valentine's Day stash. She instinctly knew it was thegood stuff. By the time I pryed open her mouth to fish it out, this was the result.

Amazing what damage only six teeth can do!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Baby B @ 15 Months

2010-02-22T00:04:00.000-08:00

I just realized it's been a while since I've blogged about the kids and their developmental progress. First up - Baby B.

Baby B is growing up way too fast! She crawled at 10 months and walked by 12 months. Currently at 15 months, she is walking pretty well. She is making more "noise" now and trying to communicate verbally, although she uses baby sign language as her main form of communicate, which is pretty cool. Some of the signs she uses are: milk, eat, water, more, open, please, thank you, wash hands, hello/bye bye, blow kiss, all done, duck, monkey, bear, dog, and bunny. She also says the words: nai-nai (Chinese for milk), mama, dada, and this/that, phone, and hello (when holding said phone). Baby B is definitely using a combination of verbal and body language to make her wants and needs known. Her comprehension of things far surpasses her signing/verbal vocabulary. She just amazes me everyday with her ability to understand the world around her.

She wants more water in her can...

My pediatrician says that the "terrible twos" is the second year of life, which is right NOW...and I totally agree. There is so much that goes on after kids go mobile...a lot of frustration with verbal skill development, gross and fine motor skill development, etc. Though a tough stage of development, it is one of the most exciting ones, and I am enjoying/savoring every moment because it really does pass by so quickly.

Baby B going for it...

Eating habits: Baby B's been on solids @ 6-7 months. As with Baby C, we did not do purees, but just fed her table foods. We started her on whole milk @ 12 months and she is down to nursing 2x/day now. She is generally a good eater and will usually try a variety of things. She, of course wants everything her sister is eating...and as a result, I have had to start her on foods/drinks I would have liked to have delayed, such as juice (undiluted), and other sweets, etc.

Let's play ball!

Sleep patterns: She slept good until about 4 months, then month 4 - 11.5 were BRUTAL, basically waking every 3-4 hours around the clock. I won't go into details, but as you can imagine, I was a zombie. When she FINALLY slept though the night, I felt like a new woman. Of course there are never enough hours in a day, but I feel a bit more normal because I have a few hours to myself before my bedtime now.

Naps continue to be a struggle, she will only sleep in the car. I used to have another option, which was the baby carrier (Ergo, Bjorn, etc), but since becoming mobile, I struggle with getting her to stay in a carrier now. So needless to say, I've put a ton of miles on my car (my second home), and spent a lot of money on gas, but naps are priceless, right?! Well, more like survival I guess. It's not a habit I am proud of, but I just keep in mind that this phase will pass! =P

How could you be mad at a face like this?

I will try to do updates on the kids more often...but you know, life happens!

Runaway B!

Sickies!

2010-02-20T18:04:00.000-08:00

Baby B woke up this AM with a low fever coupled with the runs...which resulted in an awful diaper rash. Let's just say that we've been doing lots of extra laundry and hand washing. I am actually also under the weather with a cough and stuffy nose, but you know, no rest for the weary mom...!

Baby C's appetite has also been horrible (more than usual) and of course that leads to grouchiness.

So needless to say, we had to cancel all our weekend plans, which I am totally bummed about...but we have been very fortunate this winter and none of us have gotten real sick besides the obligatory winter sniffles.

Let's hope this bug flicks outta here fast!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Whoa Speed Racer Barbie!

2010-02-17T16:58:00.000-08:00

We've been enjoying super nice weather over the past week, so we've been spending some time outside. Unfortunately, our backyards are not very kid friendly so thank goodness for our long driveway.

Here is a picture of Baby B speeding down our driveway with her Barbie quad...max 2.5 mph! This was Baby C's old quad and we will be picking up a "big girl" one for her very soon!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Happy Chinese New Year's Eve!

2010-02-13T21:36:00.000-08:00

So it's almost the year of the tiger...the year that both Daddy J and I were born in. Which means it's been 3-12 year cycles since that tiger year...which only means one thing, we turn 36 this lunar year! ACK! =)

We got some great news. Our good friend AW had his baby boy AMW. Yipee! He was about a week overdue and was born via induction at a healthy 8 lbs 4 oz. We can't wait to meet him!

We are super traditional or anything, but you are not supposed to clean on new year's day, so we got a lot done today.

We started the day @ Doug's for brunch, and when Daddy J took Baby B out for a nap, I got to spend some one-on-one time with Baby C, which I have been wanting to do for a while. We made some Chinese green onion pancakes. They did not turn out great, but edible. Regardless, it was fun "cooking" with Baby C, and nice to give her my undivided attention.
Today was a beautiful sunny day, so we spent some time outdoors...cleaning. Since Baby B is becoming more and more independent, this allowed me to get some house stuff accomplished. I managed to scrub down all the outdoor furniture, including the kiddie playhouse (dang that thing has a lot of shingles that hold a lot of dirt). Daddy J replaced the pond pump (YAH! We'll be able to SEE our fish again soon!), and I got to trim up some of the foliage around/in the pond. I also hosed down the backyard - there is something so refreshing about hosing stuff off...just wish I could hose the INSIDE of the house!

Tonight, we had dinner with Jerry's family tonight and enjoyed many yummy dishes a la my MIL. No "traditional" Chinese New Year stuff, but all still good.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-13T21:23:00.000-08:00

Another year, another Valentine's day. What to do on this special day with two kids in tow? The zoo of course! Duh. =) Then dinner with the kids and some champagne and a DVD after they went down.

It was a beautiful sunny crisp day, perfect for the zoo. Here are a few pictures:

Daddy J is not a big fan of Valentine's Day, so over the years, I have learned to set my expectations low. Plus now you throw two kids in the mix and really, its not much different that any other weekend. Is that kinda sad to say? I like to think that we celebrate our love everyday, or whatever gets me through this "over commercialized" holiday, right? LOL

Daddy J did buy me two beautiful heart pendants with the girls' initials on each and their birthstone. He intended them for my charm bracelet, but alas, the clasps don't fit, so I will probably wear them on a necklace. He tries, he really does. <3

Chocolate covered shortbread cookies a la Costco...so good!

Baby C had a Valentine exchange at her preschool, here is a picture of her signing all her cards. I was really dreading all the candy she was gonna bring home, but it wasn't too bad. I am letting Baby C have one treat a day, so this stash/bribes should be good for a while. LOL!

Baby B's New Trick

2010-02-12T21:16:00.001-08:00

New trick Baby B learned. Notice she signs "all done" after her performance, and pushes the Mama Paparazzi away? LOL!

My Morning...

2010-02-11T12:01:00.000-08:00

Last night, Baby B woke up at 1am screaming something ugly...for no particular reason. I hate it when that happens, but oh wells, I guess babies are random that way. =P

The morning started as usual, she seemed to be in a better mood, then things turned ugly real fast. I tried everything - food, milk, carrying her, tylenol (she was poking at her gums), toys, going outside, nothing worked.

So we hit the road and she was asleep within 5 minutes. Geez, what a morning, I got nothing done, and now I am stuck in the car with a sleeping B Monster I dare not wake...I need a nap too...!!!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Artsy Fartsy

2010-02-06T16:14:00.000-08:00

Today we went to check out an exhibit at The Village Theatre Art Gallery in Danville. They had a new exhibit called: The Light Fantastic - Irish Stained Glass Art in additon some kids stained glass themed art projects. Here is a picture of the fam enjoying a "private" tour of the exhibit.

We don't get out to museums, etc too often with the kids, but try to when they have kid specific activities to expose them to different things.

Next on my list is the Chabot Space Center, and eventually the Academy of Sciences in SF.

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

My Night Out

2010-02-03T23:41:00.000-08:00

It's been SOOO long since I've gone out for fun times without the kids. I had a chance to "party" a bit last Friday. My friend Gail was having a fashion show and after-party at the Supperclub in SF. The show started at 11:30pm, so it was perfect. I put Baby B down and headed out to the city (leaving Daddy J and the kiddies at home). I met up with my friend EW and her friend KRN and started the evening properly (Grey Goose shots with cranberry chasers)...and continued that "theme" all night!

Excuse the quality of the photos, I only had my cellie on me. =)

My friend EW and me on the dance floor. I don't think we've partied since my bachlorette party! Oh my!

Me and EW along with her buddy KRN, who is few years younger, I felt a bit "cougar-ish" that night, but it was all good.

My friend, KC was there too, she was one of the photographers for the shindig.

The fashion show was fab. Great design and fabrics. I am so proud of Gail! Here is her website and a few shots from the show:

After the fashion show, we tried to dance a bit, but house music was really not our thang, so we ended up leave the Supperclub and walked down the street to Manor West, which played hip hop....oh so much better! We stayed and danced there for a while and left because we had to move our cars at 2am (annoying!). We then headed to Japantown for some Korean food (sounds weird, huh?)...and I got home at about 4am. Whew! What a night! It felt refreshing to get out and "cut loose" a bit..even if for a few hours, and forget the mommy responsibilities that have defined me for the past 3.5+ years. BUT, it also felt good to get home to the fam. =)

Library Time

2010-02-02T22:39:00.000-08:00

I try to take the kids to the library at least once a week. The new CV library is a lot bigger than the old one, although not walkable from our house anymore. =(

On our last trip the girls found a big bucket of dinosaurs to play with. Baby C is currently really into this PBS show called "Dinosaur Train". It's a super cute show and of course educational. I am hoping she is still into it by the time her 4th (gasp!) birthday rolls around and they will have some licensed merchandise I can waste my money on. =)

We also pick up a stash of books for Baby C to read. She officially started karate and they have an ongoing reading program. You can earn an orange star for your uniform for every 10 books you read. You should see how many stars some kids have...their lapels are full and overflowing onto their uniforms! But then again, age appropriate books are pretty easy reads for the 3-6 age group! Hah!

Baby C doing self-checkout of her books.

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Birthday Love

2010-01-29T00:13:00.000-08:00

I feel so loved this week. Monday was my birthday and along with many many FB birthday wishes and wonderful presents, Daddy J took me to Tahoe for the weekend (will blog about that later). We are also meeting up with some friends this weekend to celebrate in the city.

Here is a picture of one of my wonderful presents. It looks so yummy, I can hardly get myself to eat it!...but you know I did! =)

Moneymaker

2010-01-28T20:40:00.000-08:00

So this is what happens when I leave Daddy J on duty while I go take a quick shower...!

We were in Tahoe over the weekend for my birthday (will blog about that soon) and this was in the hotel room. How could you be mad at a face like that?...BUT! I was mad at Daddy J for allowing her to play the money...who knows where it's been?! EW.

P.S. We don't normally carry that much cash, we just charged a pricey dinner @ Friday Station cuz we didn't have enough cash...and now we do! =)

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Rainy Days

2010-01-20T14:22:00.000-08:00

It's been storming the past couple of days. We've been trying to stay home, but school and activities call and we have to go out in the rain. Dragging kids around in the rain is definitely no fun, but we manage to survive. Here are some tips off the top of my head.

First tip, forget the umbrella. It's useless, your hands are full enough with kids and gear.

Second tip, get decent kiddie rain gear...waterproof jacket and boots. Nothing worst than a wet and whiney kid.

Third tip, get some good rain gear for yourself too, especially when you will be standing outside the car being pounded by the rain while you rip off kiddie rain coats and buckle squirmy kids into their carseats. I often forget myself, but soaked and whiney mommy no good either.

Fourth tip, forget the stroller, just grab your kids and gear and run! LOL

Stay dry everyone!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

My New Klean Kanteen

2010-01-15T13:50:00.000-08:00

I have a large one I keep @ my bedside, but I needed a smaller one (18 oz) for on the go. I decided to try out their new "wide mouth" line...wider is better right? Hah.

I like the feel of the Klean Kanteens but I do not like the condensation. I need to search for a sleeve for it (I have one for my larger one)...but then it might not fit into my cupholder...sigh.

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

So Happy Together

2010-01-15T13:24:00.000-08:00

We went to the Ice Creamery for dinner yesterday for dinner after karate. I had a gift card to use up plus a coupon for a sundae.

The food is nothing to write home about but the ice cream is yummy, generous and oh so bad for you!

We ordered two scoops, one dark chocolate peppermint and one peppermint..both seasonal flavors. After the burgers we had we honestly could not even finish the ice cream...how tragic.

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Cooking Chinese - Ghetto Style

2010-01-14T14:08:00.000-08:00

Last night I wanted to make some chow mein, but I could not find my bottle of soy sauce. Weird cuz I don't remember using it up...? Must be those crazy kids HA!

So, I had to dig in my drawers and luckily I found a couple of soy packets...along with lots of other questionable sauce packets. (I really need to clean out my kitchen drawers!)

Chow mein saved - crisis averted.

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Baby B Feeding Baby A?

2010-01-12T15:59:00.000-08:00

Ok, before the rumor mills start...no, I do not have news to share! LOL

Baby B was holding a doll baby bottle, so I dug out the matching doll, and voila! Cuteness captured!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Blueberry Ale

2010-01-10T01:53:00.001-08:00

Look @ me! I am out without the kids!...unfortunately, also without Daddy J. After I put Baby B down for the night, I joined a birthday get-together for my friend BH @ Buffalo Bills. I got there just in time to enjoy a blueberry ale. We were sitting outside with some awesome heat lamps, but that meant I had to drink faster because it was warming my beer up! Perfect excuse, right?

I had a good time chatting and laughing with old and new friends since I don't get out much without the kids. So refreshing to have "adult" conversations. =)

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

I Heart Candy Buffets!

2010-01-09T15:40:00.000-08:00

@Emma's 1st birthday party...I think my bag was larger than Baby C's...is that wrong?! LOL

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

My Date with Dee

2010-01-09T01:01:00.000-08:00

Back to my SoCal Trip...sorry this is all out of order. Blogging about this trip is a bit time consuming, and you know...life happens!

The girls and I met up with my good friend DC and her daughter KL. I love it that she is also a foodie and of course brought us to good eats. Life is so hectic that we seriously have not sat down for a meal since Baby C was born!...actually even before that since they moved down to SoCal several years ago. Anyhoo, it was great catching up...as much as we could chat dining with 3 kiddies. =)

We met up in Irvine and hit 3 places in 3 hours...cuz dats how we roll!

We started at a ramen place called Ajisen. They had a cute little ramen girl in the front.

I ordered the "premium pork" ramen which had thin slices of pork. I dunno why they call it premium, but it was delicious! We also had some potato croquettes and gyoza as appetizers, although they came after our ramen arrived.

If Daddy J were with me, he would have ordered this. I actually found an Ajisen place in Fremont, so hopefully we'll get there soon to partake!

After we had ramen, we walked over to this place called B.B.Q. that serves yummy fried chicken. B.B.Q. actually stands for Best of the Best Quality, or something like that. It's Korean run and they fry their chicken and batter in olive oil. It was quite delish and had a unique flavor.

We then drove to Yogurtland at the Spectrum. My poor sister is so deprived of yummy yogurt because the only yogurt place they have in Anchorage is TCBY...and it's in the airport! ...so you need a boarding pass to partake! LOL!

We chowed down! (as you can see) They were having a promo with Tokidoki cups and spoons. Super cute stuff!...and yummy yogurt of course!

And to top the evening off, the girls played "Ring Around the Rosie" outside Yogurtland. So cute!

Girls Goofing Off

2010-01-09T00:12:00.000-08:00

It was a crisp winter day today and we spent some time playing out in the driveway. Here are some pictures of the girls goofing off. I can't wait until Baby B is a bit more stable and I won't have to worry (as much) about her biting it on the asphalt...

Lemon Bars

2010-01-08T23:43:00.000-08:00

My friend SW posted a picture of some lemon bars she made the other day on FB. They looked so yummy thta I had to ask for the recipe. I am not much of a baker, but they turned out pretty good. Here is the recipe in case ya'll wanna try it out!

Lemon Bars
Makes 36

Ingredients:
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut in small pieces
Topping
4 large eggs
1 ½ cup granulated sugar
Grated rind of 1 lemon
½ cup fresh lemon juice
3/4 cup whipping cream
confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Directions
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease a 13- x 9- inch baking pan.
Sift the sugar, flour, and salt into a bowl. With a pastry blender, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, for the topping, whisk the eggs and sugar together until blended. Add the lemon rind and juice and mix well.
Lightly whip the cream and fold into the egg mixture. Pour over the still warm crust, return to the oven, and bake until set, about 40 minutes.
Cool completely before cutting into bars. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.

I cut the recipe in half and used an 8x8 pan. Turned out good, but I would make a full batch next time (cuz they are yummy) and perhaps use a bit more lemon rind/juice to make it more tart (cuz I like it like that).

SoCal Eats!

2010-01-08T23:19:00.000-08:00

What's a vacation without indulgent food? ...plus it just wouldn't be my blog without some food porn, right?

Even though it was hectic traveling with 2 kids, we still managed to grab some good eats here and there. Here is a sample of good eats we encountered during our SoCal week...at least the ones I remembered to take pics of. =)

Yes...I heart food... Enjoy!

Started off @ Guppy @ Hacienda Heights. My sis ordered some sort of spicy soup noodle dish. I forget because dinner was a bit hectic with Baby B on the move. As you can see she is holding her iphone...a device, I discovered through the week, that is permanently attached to her hand! LOL!

This was my meal, a dumpling noodle soup...note to self: hot soup not great with restless kids..dangerous, and I can't eat it fast!

I ordered Pineapple Fried Rice for the girls...obviously way too big, and they ate like 3 kernels of rice each. We took it back to the hotel and munched on it all week, so it all worked out.

Here is what Guppy is known for...Shaved Ice! We order the "to-go" size of their red bean variety, which feeds like 3-4 people (we did not finish it). It was the smallest size they had. The regular size feeds like 6-8 and basically fills up the whole bowl!

A SoCal original - Sprinkles Cupcakes - Coconut, Red Velvet, and Chocolate. Perfect bedtime snack...cuz dats how we roll!

My Sis with a San Francisco classic - Sourdough bowl with clam chowder from the "wharf" @ California Adventures. (cheesey I know)

Some yummy treats from California Adventures. I could not bear paying $9 for an apple, so I just took a picture. =) Cute as heck tho.

At my sister's request...we had to stop at See's because apparently there are no more See's in Anchorage! =O

This is not from SoCal, but my friend DC bought some for me on her recent trip to Hawaii. They were delish and she is the bestest!

I wish I captured more food on film, but most of the time, it was too hectic with the littles, and/or the food was just very basic, so not "food porn" worthy. LOL!

Whirlwind SoCal Trip

2010-01-06T00:55:00.000-08:00

A few months ago, we booked a week at Marriott's Newport Coast Villas the week before Christmas. We thought it would be a perfect time to visit Disneyland during their holiday set, not too crowded, not too hot. Unfortunately, Daddy J's work schedule changed and could not go on the trip. We were ready to eat the cost because we were not having any luck renting the unit out.

The week before the trip, I had this "brilliant" idea that I would just go with the girls alone and arranged to meet my sister, KL there for some extra hands...plus hang out with her since we never get to hang (she lives in a different state). She was flying into Vegas the same day with my mom to help get their new "winter home" settled in...it was "perfect" timing. KL took a Chinesey "gambling" bus from Vegas to Hacienda Heights and I drove 45 min from Newport to pick her up.

I was super nervous about the drive down...it was 400+ miles (see above GPS pic) - the longest I've ever driven, plus I was gonna be alone with a 1 and 3 year old! Everyone I talked to (including the girls' pediatrician) suggested that I leave in the wee hours so that the kids get at least a couple hours of sleep, and that's what I did (about 4am)..and overall, it worked out great! It's not for the faint of heart, and I would not recommend driving alone with 2 kids, but I survived with my sanity (somewhat) intact to tell you this tale!

Here is one of my "stay awake driving aids":

I actually bought a "Rockstar" shot thingy too, but the warning labels just freaked me out too much (it had twice the caffeine as the the Red Bull shot). In addition to the Red Bull, I also brought along a variety of candies and "quiet" food I could munch on to stay awake for the long @ss drive. No coffee for me, I did not want to stop unless I HAD to for the kids.

I actually made it past the grapevine on one tank of gas (yah Buick!). By the time I got off the grapevine, it was about 8am and the kids were waking and I was also out of gas, so a perfect time to stop for a potty break, stretch and snack. We ended up at a gas station that had a small Starbucks plus drive thru. It was perfect.

After juggling the 2 kids at the gas station, we hit the road again (not without some Baby B screaming and Baby C drama) and made it to Newport Beach at about 10am.

We made it! Here is a picture of Baby C after we checked in...still in her PJ's by the koi pond at the hotel.

I'll blog about my trip in several posts...stay tuned!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-06T00:29:00.000-08:00

Happy 2010 everyone! Another year zips by...

We spent this New Years Eve at Super Franks....our third home. They had a fab family event that did an east coast countdown at 9pm. We were afraid it would be super crazy, but it was really fun and well organized. We will definitely be back next year. They had food, fun, crafts, a princess parade, a dance contest for the older kids, and a lot of balloons and confetti at the countdown...as you can see in the picture above (my fav picture BTW).

I must admit, I felt a little defeated that THIS is what its come down to...partying on NYE at a kiddie play place...but honestly, it was really fun. We hung out with other friends with kids and spent a great evening together. Then we got the kids in bed by about 10:30pm and enjoyed the real countdown together in bed with champagne. Not to shabby for parents of 2 littles with no babysitter!

Here are a few more pictures from our NYE par-tay-ing:

Ya gotta love being able to purchase beers at the same counter where we could buy milk and juice boxes! MY kinda place! Here is Daddy J proudly posing with his beer.

Oh wait, I can't be left out! Here is me, Mom of the Year with my beer and Super Franks sign in the background! Perhaps this can be their new ad campaign? NOT! LOLOL!

Here are the girls at the craft table. They "made" some NYE party hats. They ripped them off in miliseconds after we snapped the photo.

Picture of all the balloons for balloon drop at midnight (east coast time).

Family party picture.

Baby B was a bit startled by all the noise from the countdown, balloons popping and confetti storm, but she held her own! I would not recommend kids under one to be in the thick of the crowd due to noise, etc, but Baby B did just fine!

Daddy J the party animal!

Should have drank my sparkling apple cider BEFORE the countdown. There was A LOT of confetti!

Another One Bites The Dust!

2010-01-04T16:15:00.001-08:00

Another boo boo for Baby B. This one happened on our driveway...you just don't realize how many slopes, dips, cracks and bumps you have on your driveway until you have a wobbly toddler trying to conquer it.

Daddy J says he does not remember Baby C having so many accidents, but I think I just had more attention to devote to her since she was the only child then...?

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

NKOTB @ Rite Aid?

2010-01-02T18:17:00.000-08:00

During an ice cream run @ Rite Aid, they were playing NKOTB's "Didn't I Blow Your Mind?". It brought back so many memories of high school! I wasn't a mega fan, but I did enjoy their music. I posted this thought on FB, calling it "ol skool", and my friend Mary (who is older) commented that it did not qualify as "ol skool" because it was not old enough. I guess she's right, but high school seems so long ago! With another birthday approaching..maybe I am feeling extra old?! LOL

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Visit With Santa

2009-12-26T22:22:00.000-08:00

This year we went to the Ice Creamery to see Santa. The Santa is actually the same Santa as we always see at Castro Village, but he's in a different location this year. Plus, what is better than visiting Santa AND eating ice cream?!

Baby C telling Santa she wanted a dinosaur towel for Christmas.

Baby B was not too happy, but that's OK, don't all kids cry the first time?

Finally a non-crying picture, but I had to hold her. =)

Oooh, and the best part (for me)...Peppermint ice cream!!! Yums!

Christmas in the Park

2009-12-25T16:59:00.000-08:00

This year we hit the Christmas in the Park event again in San Jose. We've gone every year since having kids. Funny how we never even thought if going to these events pre-kids...heh.

Here's Baby B chewing on one hat while wearing another. When the one on her head comes off, we switch.

This year Baby C tried ice skating for the first time ever. She only lasted one spin around the rink, but she hung there!...and so did Daddy J...holding Baby C up was tough on his back! Hah!

Daddy J lacing up Baby C's skates.

Baby C with her skates on. Doesn't she look all grown up?

Whoa....!

Daddy J and the girls.

Me and the girls.

Ooooh, pretty lights....

Baby B mesmerized by the lights.

Baby C also rode some rides...big surprise!

It got super crowded after it got dark, luckily, we were just about done, so we headed home. The event has gotten larger and larger each year and we'll definitely be back next year!

My Little Daredevil

2009-12-23T00:25:00.000-08:00

Here is a video of Baby C "bungee-ing" @ the Puente Hills Mall in Hacienda Heights. $10 for 10 minutes, and she enjoyed every minute!

I am very proud of her for attempting this on her own...with no urging whatsoever from me! Must be the adrenaline junky in her!...she definitely gets it from me and not Daddy J! LOL!

Busy...Busy...Busy!

2009-12-21T16:30:00.000-08:00

Sorry (to my nonexistent fanbase) that I have been so MIA. Since Baby B has become mobile, things have gotten a BIT hectic, plus the usual craziness of the holidays, and of course our daily chores and commitments, etc.

There is a lot to catch up on, so stay tuned! Here is a preview (plus a good list for me so I can remember what to blog!):

- Whirlwind road trip to SoCal
- Christmas in the Park in SJ
- Holiday "recital" @ preschool
- Food, food, and more food
- Baby B's new teeth and newfound mobility.
- Baby C's "bungee" experience @ the mall
- Visiting Santa
- Holiday girls night out
- Baby B's big boo boo
- Oakland Zoo fun
- Baby B's first ride in Daddy's car

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

BRRRRRR...!

2009-12-08T16:17:00.000-08:00

It's been pretty darn chilly the past couple days. Yesterday there was even snow in the tri-valley...and definitely frost/ice on the car in the AM here in CV. The clear and sunny skies are so deceiving when I wake up. I always run hot, so I don't generally dress very warm, and I tend to dress my kids light too. I went shopping for some mittens and gloves for them today and the pickings were slim, I guess they are in high demand! Winter is on its way!

Here is a picture of Baby B and her new warm hat. It was a gift from our friends TM & LK. It is definitely keeping her head warm...now I just have to work on the rest of the body!

- Yvonne
- Sent from my Palm Pre

Pandas Spotted @ The Zoo...and Babysitting.

2009-12-04T16:21:00.000-08:00

Well, not really..just cheesy panda beanies! =)

We went to the Oakland Zoo today. It was a bit chilly, but a storm is coming in the weekend and I wanted to take advantage of the clear skies. The girls and I had a wondeful time. They BOTH enjoyed the animals and were well behaved.

I wanted to tucker them out so they would nap afterwards. I have a holiday get-together tonight and am leaving them with babysitters. Daddy J was supposed to be home early so I could go, but his work is slamming him, so I had to scramble. JK, our trusty "mother's helper" is coming over with her sister KK to tag team the girls. Baby C should be a breeze, but its the B Monster I am worried about. It's only for 2.5 hours, but I am still worried that Baby B will just fuss the whole time. Maybe I won't worry so much after a few drinks...LOL!

- Yvonne
- Sent from my Palm Pre

Tomales Bay Oyster Company

2009-11-29T22:30:00.001-08:00

Today we went to Tomales Bay with my MIL and BIL. It was our first time there and we hit up the Tomales Bay Oyster Company. We ate a beautiful autumn afternoon away enjoying fresh oysters and clams, along with chicken wings, Korean BBQ beef and short ribs that my BIL brought. They have a bay-shore picnic area with BBQ pits, and it was the perfect day for it! We got there at about noon and the picnic are was not super crowded. It actually started to get a bit crowded in the late afternoon as we were leaving...the early dinner crowd I guess? Here are some pictures from our little adventure:

Heron on Tomales Bay

Oysters, 2nd round - one dozen large, one dozen small. (First round was one dozen medium and a pound of clams)Daddy J and Baby C enjoying some grub.

My BIL, AW in action.

Oysters and chicken wings on the grill!

Showing off my oyster before it goes in my tummy.Baby C hanging out

Daddy J and Baby C enjoying the sunshine.Baby C digging her way to China, with a spoon!

Could not get a picture of them BOTH looking at the same time...oh wells.

BIL, AW with the girls.

Daddy J trying to get cell reception at Heart's Desire Beach. (there was none)

Pure Bliss

2009-11-29T00:32:00.000-08:00

We were at Casa Orozco having lunch (huervos rancheros, yum!). This was Baby C's dessert...a Mexican hot fudge sundae. Look at the pure joy on her face! LOL

- Yvonne
- Sent from my Palm Pre

Bento Box Supplies

2009-11-29T00:07:00.000-08:00

I can spend hours at this place. Unfortunately, with two kids in tow, I can get maybe 30 minutes max...which I guess it good for my wallet, not good for my sanity! LOL! =)

I've been wanting to get into this Bento Box stuff. We always struggle with getting Baby C to eat, so maybe making her meals "cuter" will help? Or am I just kidding myself? We'll see if I ever get my act together...luckily the supplies are not too expensive, but I guess can add up...!

Sisters...Feel The Love!

2009-11-28T23:52:00.000-08:00

It's not what you think...catch it on the replay if you need to. =)

Happy Birthday NM!

2009-11-28T23:43:00.000-08:00

Today we went to a 2nd birthday party for our friends' son, NM. It was at Studio Grow in Berkeley. We've been there before but never for a party. It was nice to have the space all to ourselves. Here are a few pictures of Baby B&C having a great time. With two mobile ones, I feel like I need to take Daddy J to parties with me now...because wouldn't you know it, the girls tend to run in separate directions! LOL.

Baby B in the ball pit.

Baby C playing with dinosaurs. Her current fav show is "Dinosaur Train" on PBS.

Baby C playing with the magnetic board, it looks like our fridge!

Baby C trying to "learn the ropes".

The birthday boy NM with his Curious George cake. Happy Birthday!

Black Friday

2009-11-27T18:04:00.000-08:00

After the T-Day food hype comes the Black Friday sales blitz. Now I've never got up at the crack of dawn for this coveted shopping sport, but I was tempted to do some online shopping since some sales started at midnight...but I resisted, rather, I was just too plain lazy to do the research! Hah! Besides, I am ALMOST done with my holiday shopping, so I thought I'd be practical and just not give into the hype...and save some $$$!...plus there is always Cyber Monday, right?! =)

Instead of doing the BF thing, we met up with our friends KG & FG for lunch at this Afghan place called "Kabul" in Sunnyvale. I ordered the seafood combo kebabs (salmon & prawns) and a yogurt drink called "dough" (blah) and Daddy J ordered the lamb kebabs. Everything was delish (well except my drink).

Afterwards we went over to their house to partake in T-Day leftover drinks & desserts. We also played some Rock Band and admired a Lego Eiffel Tower that FG just built (see pic). Baby B's newfound mobility has allowed me a bit more freedom because she is a bit less clingy. Baby C made herself at home on the couch and watched some TV. It was a nice treat to hang out with some friends on a gloomy Black Friday.

- Yvonne
- Sent from my Palm Pre

Gingerbread House Fun!

2009-11-27T01:27:00.000-08:00

Last week we had a playdate with Baby C's buddy AB. The girls worked on a gingerbread house (kit). It was a bit messy, but the girls had a blast. They had to work on it on the dining table instead of the kids table because Baby B wanted in on the action, and was getting in the way....plus all the candy was probably a choking hazard!

Here is a picture of Baby C and the finished product!

Let's see how long it lasts without attracting ants! EEK!

My Baby B is One!

2009-11-27T00:27:00.000-08:00

We went for Baby B's one year well check this week and here are her stats:

Weight = 18 lbs, 12 oz (13%)
Height = 2'6" (77%)
Head = 18.27" (84%)

Her weight did not change from her 9 month appointment, but she dropped from 46% to 13%. I guess since she started crawling and walking, she's burning a lot more calories. I have noticed that she is eating a lot more these days. From her most recent stats, she is tall, skinny, and has a big head! No wonder she is taking some tumbles when attempting to walk! LOL! =)

Here are some pictures from her birthday celebrations.

"Um, are you done taking pics mom?? Can I have my birthday froyo now?"

Yum...frosting!

I am so over this!

Just us and the birthday girl!

Piiiiiizza! Get in my tummy!

Kinda blurry, but the only decent picture I got of her cute birthday outfit!

Fire in the hole!

Cute red velvet cupcakes topped with a buttery ladybug cookie! My friend MS made them. Oh so delish!

Three generations! It was a rare treat to have my mom here for Belle's celebration.

Shoes! Shoes! Shoes!

2009-11-19T21:42:00.000-08:00

Just gathered some shoes to donate to a local clothes bank that help men and women look for jobs and "dress for sucess". Hmm, you think SOME-body has a shoe habit? LOL!

Cops Gotta Eat Too

2009-11-19T13:01:00.001-08:00

Captured this Kodak moment last night as we were pulling in for a healthy dinner on the go. CLASSIC!

- Yvonne
- Sent from my Palm Pre

I Got My Baby Back Baby Back Baby Back!

2009-11-19T12:22:00.001-08:00

Literally...this is sometimes the only way I get stuff done. I've been blessed with two difficult nappers and all I have to say is thank goodness for my car and my carriers! I couldn't survive without them!

I caught this pic with my phone...SOME-body sure did need a nap...ya think?!

- Yvonne
- Sent from my Palm Pre

Happy Birthday Baby B!

2009-11-17T23:41:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe my baby is ONE! I know, I know, it's soooo cliche...but time really does fly!

We've celebrated her birthday over the weekend and finally ending the festivities with a kiddie party for her at Super Franks. ( I know, we are like obsessed with that place! hah)

I need to sort through the tons of pics we took over the past couple days, so I will post more later. She is starting to walk, a few more steps each day...it's very exciting to see her discover her own mobility and using that to explore the world.

Here is a preview picture from the party tonight. It really captures how Baby B has progressed. She is really developing her own little personality. Check out big sister's expression! CLASSIC!

The Second Time Around

2009-11-13T22:17:00.000-08:00

I find that Baby B is "experiencing" things a lot sooner than Baby C did...especially foods. With Baby C, I tried to adhere to the guidelines that the pediatrician laid out as far as introducing foods, etc, to reduce the chance of allergies. With Baby B, it's tough when we are eating all together and the B Monster wants some of what we are eating.

Anyhoo, here is a picture of Baby B with a juice box. I don't think I gave Baby C full-on juice juice till she was probably 2 years old! Poor Baby C, I feel like I totally deprived her. LOL!

My Second Home

2009-11-13T14:22:00.001-08:00

My car is my home away from home. I spend a lot of time and miles playing chaffeur to Baby C's activities and being a sleep aid to Baby B's ridiculous napping demands.

I love my new car and am so glad we got it. We went American and not only does it perfectly fit our family's needs, but we also feel good that we "stimulated" the American economy.

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Mobile Blogging

2009-11-12T21:42:00.000-08:00

OK, as you may have noticed, I have just discovered mobile blogging! Yipee! I think this will single- handedly (sp?) save my blog! You may have also noticed that I've been pretty MIA on blogging. I feel so bad not keeping my blog current because it is the journal of my life, and things can be forgotten SO quickly! (esp with my ultra mommy brain)

So I will use mobile blogging to blog random everyday things i capture with my trusty Palm Pre. And for events and such, I will blog "traditionally" with my computer with better quality pictures!

Flu Vaccines

2009-11-12T21:20:00.001-08:00

Today I went to go get Baby B's second seasonal flu shot. This completes her seasonal flu vaccine for the year. When I arrived @ the Kaiser flu clinic, they had JUST received 100 doses of the h1n1 mist in like an hour prior and everyone in line was very excited...but me.

Kaiser is following strict CDC guidelines on who gets the swine flu vaccine. Baby B is too young to receive the mist, I do not fall into the "priority" group, and the only one in our family that qualifies for the mist - was @ preschool today! Oh wells, I am sure all the doses were spent by the end of the day. Guess we'll have to wait for the next shipment!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Mamas Have To Be Creative!

2009-11-12T20:53:00.000-08:00

Forgot a jacket for Baby B today while taking a stroller walk, so I busted out a fleece vest I had in the car and it worked perfectly! It was in the mid 60's, sunny, and a perfect day for a stroll!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Stroller Naps

2009-11-12T14:23:00.001-08:00

My girls have never been stroller nappers...then again, I probably never walk long enough for them to nap. The area around my house is not exactly conducive to taking stroller walks, so we don't get out much in that respect.

Today, I had to drop my car off for service and decide to give my friend SM a call because she lives nearby. It is about a 15 min walk and though Baby B did not sleep on the way there, she did fall asleep on the way back to the dealership.

Hmmm...maybe I should take walks more with the kids! We have a lake nearby that is nice to walk around. It would be good for all of us! Time to shop for a double jogging stroller? Or maybe just a single one? Not sure if Baby C would dig sitting for that long...=)

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

My New Vice

2009-11-11T22:27:00.000-08:00

Ooh...found these at TJ's. So yummy...extra holiday pounds, here I come!!!

-- Sent from my Palm Pre

Matchie Matchie

2009-11-10T00:25:00.000-08:00

OK, I just looked at my recent posts and almost all the pictures with both girls in it, they are in matchie matchie outfits. I have got to stop this insanity! I feel like a big cheeseball....LOL!

A Wonderful Sunday Afternoon

2009-11-08T23:43:00.001-08:00

What a great Sunday afternoon in the city. First I had tea time with some mommy friends at the Crown & Crumpet Tea Salon. My friend GH organized this cool girls outing and we had such a wonderful time. There is just something so decadent about cute little sandwiches with the crusts cut off. Plus everything is bite size and super cute! It was nice to spend some time away from the kiddies, although we did of course talk about our kids (at least part of the time)!

My friend VB and I shared "tea for two". I had a pot of yummy "Fancy Jasmine" green tea. Here is a picture of our tower of yumminess!

After wards we stopped by Kara's Cupcakes for some cupcakes to go and then walked around the wharf a bit.

It was great to walk around because its been soooo long since I've been in the Ghiradelli Square/Fisherman's Wharf area. I used to hang out there all the time with my friend EW back in the middle school days. We used to even take the cable car home from school. Ahh...the good ol' days!

While I was enjoying some "girl time", Daddy J took the kids and visited his parents and had lunch in Chinatown. Afterwards, he came to pick me up and we decided to walk around the wharf a bit. We walked down Hyde Street Pier and along the wharf a bit.

We didn't get to ride the cable car this time, but next time for sure!

Walking around the Hyde Street Pier and looking at the ships docked there.

Alcatraz in the background - kinda.

It takes a real man to wear a baby!

"Pirate Ship!"

"Look! A Beach!"

And of course, what's a trip to Fisherman's Wharf without a stop for Ghiradelli chocolate ice cream? In spite of all the napkins, she still managed to get ice cream on her dress AND car seat! SIGH.

Shopping Cart Fun

2009-11-02T16:40:00.000-08:00

Costco rocks cuz of their extra wide shopping carts. Poor Baby C is forced to walk most of the time when I go shopping because I can't fit two kids in the seating area. Here is a picture of the girls having fun at Costco this past weekend. We decided to let Baby C bring in her bubble gun. It worked out good because it entertained Baby B in between food samples. I hope it was not too annoying to the other shoppers! =)

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T00:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween everyone!

As usual, I had two costumes ready, a warm weather one (49ers cheerleaders) and a cold weather one (giraffes). We actually had a couple of parties and events to go to and got pretty good use out of both costumes, although it was warm most of October.

This was Baby B's first Halloween, and this might be the last time I get to choose her outfit, since she'll be almost 2 by the time the next Halloween rolls around. I got to choose Baby C's costumes the last two years since she has a July birthday. This year, she wanted to be a giraffe (her favorite animal), and I got to choose the cheerleader outfit. I never got to dress up and go trick-or-treating growing up, so every year, I just wing it, and try to make this "holiday" special for the kids.

Here are some pictures from the pumpkin carving session. Daddy J did a great job on carving a "kitty" pumpkin.

"I don't want to dig in the pumpkin Daddy."

Daddy J concentrating very hard on the pumpkin design.

She finally gets her hands dirty...a little.

MEOW!

We went TOT-ing at the local shopping area, it was packed!

The giraffe costumes were semi-DIY. I bought the sweatsuits, and costume "kits" came from this lady on www.etsy.com. The kits included the brown patches, antlers, ears, and tails. The felt patches were stick-on (although I will whip stitch them before dumping them in the washer/ dryer), and I had to sew the rest of the pieces on myself. This was quite a feat since I do not know how to sew...I was quite proud of myself, even though the sewing was pretty rudimentary. The end result was "ok" IMHO. I think it's hard to convey a giraffe because of all the signature spots that identify the animal. But at least I knew they were comfortable...although the weather was a bit warm. They were mistaken for cows a couple times, and if they don't have their hoods on, they kinda look like skeletons to me , which was ok too I guess.

Who knew giraffe's could scream? LOL

Baby C's preschool had a Halloween parade and a potluck. I made "apple smiles"! Basically, two slices of apples, nutella/peanut butter, and mini marshmallows...simple, semi-nutritious, and yummy! They were a hit!

P is for Pumpkin

2009-10-26T00:19:00.000-07:00

This year, like every year since the kids, we went to Moore's Pumpkin Patch. It's right off the freeway and you can't miss the ginormous Super Slide and huge blow up pumpkin. Cheesy? maybe, but we always have fun.

This was Baby B's first trip to the pumpkin patch. It was a warm sunny day as usual (gotta love California living!) and Baby C got to ride some rides and run around in the hay. I wanted to go on the Super Slide this year, but Baby C refused to come with me (it probably seems extra ginormous from her height!) and I felt a little ridiculous going on my own...oh wells, perhaps next year. =)

Here are some pictures of our adventure:

Daddy Paparazzi

Sisters!

Hanging out in the wagon.

Gotta love those sprouts! aka ponytails...

Baby B was very focused on that pumpkin...we ended up buying it.

That one was hea-vy!

I have 2 teeth now!

Baby C riding the train.

Troublemaker-in-Training

2009-10-22T21:12:00.000-07:00

Over the last couple weeks, Baby B has really come into her own and quickly establishing herself as "troublemaker-in-training". She is definitely following in her sister's footsteps. We've since had to bust out the childproofing gear once again and Baby B just giggles in excitement because its just another new thing for her to fiddle with.

She also had a cool language breakthrough the other day. After a challenging trip at Safeway, Baby B was "helping" me unload the groceries when she grabbed the bananas and repeatedly said "Nana, nana, nana!" I finallly figured out she was saying "banana" and she was relentless until I sat her down in her highchair and peeled a banana for her. She then happily and quietly devoured about a quarter of the banana. In that moment, I realized why she was so fussy at the supermarket...I THINK she just wanted a banana to chew on! It was one of the first items I put in my cart. Go figure!

Baby B is pretty proficient at crawling, cruising, yelling at what she wants, and has a serious curiosity streak. Which is all pretty normal at this stage, but when it's your second child, you almost DREAD them becoming mobile (read: two mobile kids, running in opposite directions)...at least that's how I feel. With Baby C, I distinctly remember things getting simultaneously easier AND harder after age one and becoming mobile. The newfound freedom is exilarating for the young toddlers, which means you have to watch them like a hawk. Their language skills are developing, but it can be quite frustrating (for everyone) when they are so vocal, yet have trouble conveying their needs. I know every child is different, and I look forward to getting to know our little Baby B.

Anyways, one thing is for sure, we've got lots of cool adventures ahead!

Sick Days

2009-10-21T00:52:00.000-07:00

Germ season is upon us. Both girls have snotty noses and Baby C has a cough too....and now I think I am coming down with whatever virus they have...and of course Daddy J has been out of town for the past couple days...timing is everything! [rolls eyes]

We've been hanging at home for the past couple days just in case - I hate to spread germs! (even though I know some parents are not so cautious, obviously!) Baby C went back to school today (where I am sure is ground zero). Despite being under the weather, the girls have been in good spirits (minus a few challenging Baby B nights), and no fevers at all, so I know they are not contagious.

Here are some pictures from our "sick days" at home:

Baby C wanted to go outside to play, but all the "equipment" was dirty, so I gave her a bucket of soapy water and sponge, put an apron on her and told her to go for it. She made an effort for about 15 minutes and I had to finish the rest. Then she informed me that she wanted to go back inside AFTER I filled the water table up with fresh water (again with the timing)...which then I used to water the plants with, even though we just had a major storm...sigh!

Here's a picture of Baby B playing in the kitchen. Her personality is really coming out and she is becoming more interactive each day. She is also getting around (via crawling) pretty fast. She is also cruising and finger-walking with brief moments of standing unassisted. We recently just put the safety gate back up in the hallway so she can't climb the stairs. Looks like we will be busting out all the childproofing junk again. Fun times! =P

Happy Birthday ZR!

2009-10-11T23:15:00.000-07:00

Today we went to Super Franks to celebrate my cousin's son's birthday (does that make him my second cousin?). They did a "walk-in" party in the Safari Adventure room and it was a blast as usual. Baby C always has a good time there and Baby B is starting to enjoy it too as she gets more mobile.

ZR is two now and quite a little character, completely 180 of his sister at this age...and keeping my cousin JR and her husband on their toes! It's amazing how different siblings can be, I guess its a testament to the "nature" part of the age-old "nature vs nurture" debate!

Man, Super Franks was packed today with all the party rooms filled, and with the parties running about $350-$400 for each 2 hour slot, the owners must be rolling in the dough! Now why did I not think of this business idea? I just love it there, the space, the concept, and even the food and drinks are decent! =)

Here are some of my fav pictures from the party. We only took like 150 of them! LOL! Not too many of Baby C - she was moving too dang fast!

Baby C and Birthday Boy ZR playing "jack in the box".

Good times....

Baby B driving already?!

Rock that fishie!

Just me and the girls!

Baby B posing with the firetruck.

Girls rule!...at least Daddy J!