Long Beach Aquarium

Today we took advantage of the free teacher day at the Long Beach Aquarium. Last time we went, Noah was almost two and found the pigeons more interesting than the marine life. My how much has changed. Noah pet sharks for the first time, fed lorikeets, and interacted with a sea lion. It was a fun time had by all. We even came prepared with swim clothes so Noah could jump in the tanks, just kidding, he was able to play in the wet zones outside. I can't wait for Micah to be able to have all this fun with Noah... he was chilling in the baby bjorn with me for most of the time. When will we head back???

Church carnival

Inland Church was having its annual summer carnival. I remember volunteering at these many years ago when I was in high school and it was a much smaller event. Now the carnival has rides, jumpers, wet zones, games, trains, and plenty of cotton candy and snow cones! Noah had a great time playing with Kaitlyn, and Emo stayed out of the sun with Micah. What will it be like next year???

It's Your Show

One of Jawsh's illustrations was chosen for UCLA Extension 2009 "It's Your Show" exhibit. The show is at the Westwood Center Gallery and will be up until July 16th. We are so excited that Jawsh's work was one of the selected pieces. What will he show next???

Micah's first ride

Aunt Kelly, also known as Emo, is visiting this week. We took a trip to Disneyland and she took Micah on his FIRST ride... the Casey Jr. Circus Train. Jawsh and I rode with Kaitlyn and Noah in a cage and Kelly and Micah opted for a seat. Afterwards we took the kids to It's a Small World and I got to hold Micah on that one. What will be Micah's favorite ride???

Fun with Mary

Our last day in Reno was spent with family. The guys went golfing and the gals went shopping. We went to a local mall and Noah found that very exciting because he got to play in the water with Mary. We can't wait to see them again in August when they come to California. What will we have planned for them???

Hi Jin and Chris

We found some time to visit my cousins, Jin and Chris, Sunday evening. It's been years since I have seen them. It was so weird to see how these two have grown... I remember changing their diapers! It was a nice calm evening and I secretly hope they will move from Reno back to Vegas so we can see them more often. When will we see them again???

Happy Father's Day

This year we celebrated all the fathers on the Rubin side. We had a nice brunch and some time to show our appreciation through gifts. I think that Jawsh is the BEST father to Noah and Micah, hands down! What will we do next year???

Party!

The evening celebration was so much fun! There was a lot of good food and music! It was great to see everyone dancing and Seth and Mary high up in the chairs during the Hora. Noah couldn't help but get his groove on, until it got so loud that he wanted to leave. Where did he get his booty bumpin' skills from???

Mazel tov Seth and Mary!

Seth and Mary were called to the Torah and did an amazing job. They were composed, well spoken, and they looked very mature! Here they are with Isaac (who just graduated from high school). We are so happy that we were able to witness this and share in the celebration. The whole family was there and everyone was so joyous... when will we all be together again???

Friendly skies

Micah's first trip on an airplane went really well... we flew to Reno for Seth and Mary's b'nai mitzvah. The trip was smooth thanks to the boys' dispositions and Uncle Zach traveling with us. It was nice to have an extra set of hands to help! Micah was laughing as we went up in the air and then slept peacefully in his seat until we landed. Noah was in the row behind us with Dad watching WALLE on Kaitlyn's DVD player. Now we know that we can take the boys anywhere! Next stop: Maui. Anyone want to join???

Congrats Zach

Zach completed his screen writing program at UCLA. We can't wait to see his new Pixar movie in the future. I wonder if we can get Noah and Micah to voice some of the characters???

Guinea pig

Today was a nice overcast day so we decided to go to the LA Zoo. We were there for a short time and we were able to see the bird show. Noah also got to brush the hair of a guinea pig! He did such a nice job stroking his hair gently. I wonder what Noah's first pet will be???

Do I hear 2000?

For our school annual auction, my class created a book and chair inspired by a book entitled, Melanin N Me. The kids painted the bottom of the chair as well as the poles, and Jawsh did the art. This chair caused quite a commotion as many people bid on this... the final sale price was $2000. Not twenty. Two thousand. Fortunately, it went to one of the students in my class. What will Jawsh help create next year???

A night out

Jawsh and I had a night out of eating good sushi and drinking beer without the babies! Cathy generously offered to watch them while we went to Jtown to have an adult evening. I must admit that it was nice not having to feed Noah and entertain Micah while eating, it was nice to get to eat our meal and eat at a leisurely pace, and it was especially nice getting a chance to just hang out with Jawsh and to hear about his art class. Having said that, I also must admit that I was ready to go back and see my sons sooner than later. After dinner, we went to Pinkberry and brought that home to have dessert together. I think we were gone for about an hour and a half... baby steps right???

Reading with Bubbe

Bubbe came over today and spent some time reading some of Noah's favorite books (he's currently into Everyone Poops and The Holes in Your Nose). I love how Micah is blowing on the kazoo (he really can) and trying to get in on the action. When will Noah start to read on his own???

Hi Cam!

Cam was in town visiting and got a chance to see the boys. Although Jawsh had to be quick about getting this shot (she doesn't like getting her picture taken) this came out great. Wouldn't you agree Cam???

Art class

Jawsh started taking an Advanced Illustration class in the evenings at Art Center in Pasadena with the Clayton Brothers (here is an example of their work). Turns out their father was into the arts and obviously influenced them. Will Noah and Micah be in the arts and be known as the Smith Brothers???

Micah

Here is a picture of Micah, our little yogi, in downward dog. Isn't this a great pose???

Noah

Here is a picture of Noah taken with the new camera. Better quality, can't you tell???

Jawsh's new toy

We have been waiting for the new Canon Rebel to come out and as soon as we found out we bought it. The picture quality is so much better and it also takes video. Will Noah get Jawsh's old Canon Elph camera???

Mickey waffles

One of Jawsh's favorite childhood memories was eating Mickey Mouse waffles with strawberries at Disneyland, so we had to recreate this experience for him (and the boys). Jawsh said the waffles are now smaller than what he remembered, but they still taste great. Noah loved dipping his waffle in syrup and meeting all the characters who came by our table. Micah shrieked in fear when Minnie came up. What will the boys' favorite memories be???

Come on Micah!

Micah has been up on his knees for a few weeks now, trying to keep up with Noah. He can get up on his knees, off his stomach, and lunge but we're still waiting for the official crawl. When will that happen???

Happy Mother's Day

Mother's Day was more like Mother's Weekend. Jawsh made lasagna on Saturday for his mother and then helped bbq kalbi on Sunday for my mom... truly good eating. It was a nice weekend with great weather and lots of good food and company. I love the card that Jawsh made for me... wonder what he'll make next???

Twin tiger tees

It just so happened that Uncle Zach and Micah were wearing tiger tees , so we just had to take this shot. Twin tiger tees, twin dimples, and twin hair style. Twins can't you see???

I Love LA

Jawsh painted a portrait of the biggest LA lover he knows: David Lynch. This painting was auctioned at STOKED and by the end of the night, his painting was one of the top earners. What would David Lynch think if he saw this???

Micah's first tooth

Micah's first tooth is here! He has been drooling for weeks so we knew that it was approaching soon. I can't believe how fast this is all going... before we know it he'll be one! Will all the milestones feel like this???

Hi Elissa

It's always so nice to see good friends... Elissa and Tony came by for dinner and enjoyed a night in with the family. Noah even shared his Mickey Mouse hat with her. Doesn't this compliment her style???

Muppets 3D

We went to California Disney on a whim and got to explore the Hollywood backlot there. Who knew that we would find a Muppets 3D ride. Even though I did not go in (someone had to kick it outside with Micah), it looks like Noah had a great time... when will I get to go on a ride with him (hint hint Jawsh)???

Hi GGA

Grandpa Art and Grandma Tina came for a weekend visit. Here is a picture of Grandpa Art from Noah's perspective. Noah has pretty good camera skills for a two year old, wouldn't you say???

Double trouble

Life is so much easier with a double stroller. The walks to the park, the library, in the mall... everywhere.... is doable with this stroller. Our BOB double stroller is great; can't you tell the boys like it as well???

Veggie time

Micah loves eating sweet potatoes. Can't you tell???

Back at "home"

While my parents are in Seoul for my Halmoni's funeral, we have been staying in Ontario to help at the store and to make sure that Watts and Goldie are okay (we thank God this landed during my Spring Break). Noah has really enjoyed this time in the IE because he gets to see Kaitlyn everyday. And we are fortunate enough to have a Children's Museum right next door to the store, so they have been having a great time amidst legos, dress up clothes, and playrooms. Here they are admiring a ladybug by the fountain. Will Noah want to go back home???

Halmoni

My Halmoni died. My last living grandparent. She was ninety years old. Throughout our childhood my parents took us back to Seoul to visit, which I appreciate now that I am older. This Halmoni also made trips to the US and was here for my wedding. She looked very stunning in her pink hanbok! The last time we saw her was when Jawsh and I went to Seoul in 2006. We are so fortunate that Noah and Micah live much closer to their grandparents and get to spend time with them. They are lucky, don't you think???

Toilet learning

Noah is now starting to use his little potty. I have read horror stories about how toddlers are scared of the potty but Noah has not had any of these issues. He has told us on a few occasions that he has to go "pooh" and he has found success several times. When will the diapers come off???

Like Father like Son

Now that the sun stays up later, we decided to take a walk down at the beach. It's always nice to be near the ocean, smelling the salty sea air, and walking by Shutters on the Beach. Micah and I were hanging back while Jawsh and Noah went ahead and it was just too cute to see them together. Like Father like son, don't you think???

Pre-school search

For the past few weeks we have been visiting pre-schools. It's been an interesting process. In three words here is what describes our experience: tours, waitlists, and anxiety. Will we find a program that fits Noah???

Happy Birthday Uncle Bill

We celebrated Uncle Bill's 32nd birthday today! We know he got what he wished for because we saw it with our own eyes... Nike shoes! Bill would tell you they're not just any shoes, but the Kobe IV. Will his shoe obsession ever stop???

Banana time

Micah's first fruit was the banana in honor of Noah (the banana is one of his faves although it was not his first fruit). What will his first veggie be???

"Mickey sleeping"

We visited the Hammer Museum to check out the new exhibit, 9 Lives. It was definitely interesting work and Noah really enjoyed going through the rooms. When we reached the painting, Deliverance, Noah looked up and said "Mickey sleeping." This got a few people to chuckle. When will we find the time to visit again???

Brotherly love

Everyday we find that Noah is engaging more with Micah. He likes to coach him in his jumper (by yelling and jumping along side him), he likes to help feed him (or wipe his face with a cloth) and lately he does things to get his little bro to laugh. Here they are hanging out in the living room together. Isn't this sweet?

It's fun to "PLAY" at the Y-M-C-A

Noah's Gymboree classes have ended and now he is in a toddler gym class at the Y. Noah loves the "Y Gym" because there is a whole gym where he can run around, play Stop and Go, and learn new songs. While Noah plays, Micah is chilling out in the Child Watch Room where they have the sweetest staff. When will Micah join in on the fun???

Rice, rice, baby

Micah is now 5 months (and 4 days old) which marks the time to try solids. There was not as much debate over what to try first mainly because we've been through this before with Noah. But unlike Noah, Micah did not really enjoy it and he had to sit in his pod chair since Noah had a fit when we tried to put him in the high chair. Micah was calm but he kept spitting the food out and he was more interested in grabbing the spoon. It's all going by very fast. How will Micah do at his next meal???

Happy Birthday Uncle Zach

We had such a good time celebrating Uncle Zach's birthday! We enjoyed Japanese from Hide Sushi and instead of birthday cake, Zach requested birthday donuts in true Homer Simpson fashion! Wonder what he wished for???

Swim class

Noah took his first "swim" class tonight in the indoor pool at the Y. The kids are learning how to blow bubbles in the water, hold on to the side of the pool, and kick their little legs. It was so fun watching him in the pool, although Noah wanted to get out before the class was over. Jawsh looked like he was having fun too! When will he learn how to really swim???

Big bubble

Noah's fascination with bubbles continue... here is a great shot taken with an iphone! Amazing huh?

Watch out MJ!

Micah is channeling my all time favorite basketball player, Michael Jordan. Now all we have to do is make sure that Micah is tall like his uncles, has their skills in basketball, and wears a number 23 jersey... oh and making sure that when he dunks from the free throw line that his tongue is out! Isn't that every parents dream???

Happy birthday Dada

We celebrated Jawsh's birthday (again) with Bubbe. Here we are at her place after a great day at the Discovery Center. Bubbe made a delectable chocolate cake with roasted almonds and Noah was in the mood to sing Happy Birthday to Dada. I love how Jawsh's eyes are on Noah; Noah's eyes are on the cake; Micah's eyes are on Bubbe; and my eyes are on it all. Isn't that great???

Check up

After our Disneyland adventure, we headed to Micah's four month check up. He is in the 95% in weight and height and in the 50-70% in head circumference (just like Noah except he had a bigger noggin). Micah also received his second round of immunizations and we heard the high pitch scream again... I think he was channeling Mariah Carey. Will the next round of shots be less painful???

Dada's day

We celebrated Jawsh's birthday by heading to the happiest place on earth: Disneyland. It was a gorgeous clear day and there were not a lot of people at the park. We ate lunch at the Blue Bayou (the restaurant inside the Pirates of the Caribbean). The food was tasty, Noah was chill in his high chair, and Micah was asleep so that was a nice treat. Afterwards, we bought Noah a Woody pin and later in the day he met Woody. Noah was really excited but once he got close, he turned very shy (where's Kaitlyn when we need her?) We had a good time and hope to meet Buzz soon... will that happen???

Rata... who?

Noah's love for Pixar continues to grow. He is no longer asking for Ratatouille, now the obsession is with Toy Story (thanks Uncle Zach). Any bets on what his next Pixar obsession will be???

32

We celebrated Jawsh's 32nd birthday today with friends, good Jamaican, and mojitos! It was nice to see everyone and celebrate Jawsh and his love for Star Wars... yup, we had balloons, streamers, and Jawsh even wore a Jedi badge! The best part was hearing Noah sing Happy Birthday to Dada... too cute! What will we do on the 12th (his actual birth day)???

Thomas Live!

Jawsh met up with Nathan and family to watch Thomas Live at the Nokia theater. The boys had a great time watching Thomas and it was their first time at the Nokia theater. I got to stay home and have some bonding time with Micah, which was very nice. Wonder when we'll all get a chance to go to the Nokia theater together???