Happy Father's Day

This year we celebrated Father's Day a little early. The boys made him recycled robot cards to go with his new espresso machine and coffee grinder. Jawsh is the BEST father to Noah and Micah... they love spending time with him, greeting him at the door when he comes home, and look forward to Movie Nights with him. He is a great model for them and I am so blessed that his love for his children (and his wife) emanates from within. What will we do for him next year???

Vegas, Day 3

Today was our last day in Las Vegas. The weather was about 90 degrees this morning, so we let the kids swim before we left. The boys have such a good time with their cousins that we truly feel blessed that they have one another to play with. When will we go on another family vacation together???

Vegas, Day 2

This morning started at the Bellagio Hotel where we ate breakfast at Jean Philippe Patisserie. We indulged in nutella brioche, apple brioche, croque de madam, quiches, and some good coffee. Afterwards we went to Ethel M Chocolates expecting to see chocolate being made, however, there was no one really working which was a bit disappointing. The upside was the beautiful cactus garden and the kids enjoying their free samples and gummy worms dipped in chocolate. Afterwards we went back to our hotel for more swimming. In the evening, we met up with my family again and had a nice dinner. This truly was a family oriented trip... I did not gamble one single penny... isn't that crazy???

Vegas, Day 1

Today we went to Las Vegas for a quick family getaway. We stayed in a suite at the MGM Signature where Kaitlyn and Co were two floors down, so the kids had a great time at the hotel together. We went to the kid friendly pools with small waterfalls and the lazy river. The most surprising thing was that Noah was actually swimming (a few yards)! It was so fun to watch and he had no fear putting his head under the water. Later in the evening we met with my Uncles and Aunts and the kids liked playing in their backyard with their dogs. What will we do tomorrow???

Frisbee time

Today we were in Huntington Beach with Bubbe, GA, and GT. We went to a nearby park where Noah played frisbee with his new toy GA bought for him. It's called a "ball wheel" but we renamed it "Saturn." Noah is really good at throwing and catching the frisbee, so it's fun playing with him. As you can see, GA threw Saturn at Noah and he caught it! Wonder if he'll be any good at baseball? Do I see a left handed pitcher in his future???

GA aka Handy Manny

GA and GT came over to visit with the kids. The boys showed them their train set and also got Great Grandpa Art to fix their broken toys! Noah was overjoyed when his red race car started to drive again. What will we do tomorrow with them in Huntington Beach???

Unc Z is cool

Uncle Zach and Dolly came over to watch the boys so Jawsh and I could watch the movie, Bridesmaids. It's been a while since Jawsh and I went to the movies, but we had to go tonight to use these fandango coupons before they expired. We met in Santa Monica because Jawsh was coming from work... we snuck in some meatball sandwiches from Bay Cities Deli and had a great time. At the end of the movie, we waited for the credits to roll so we could see Unc Z's name (see picture above)! That's right, this is one of the movies he worked on this past year. Afterwards we went to Pinkberry where I enjoyed a caramel flavored yogurt! Unc Z is cool because he watched the kids, worked on the movie, and is willing to watch the boys again... when will that be???

Disney

Today we took a quick trip to Disneyland... my annual passes will be blocked out soon so I have to squeeze in some trips. We were only there for a few hours but the boys had a great time. Here they are on King Arthur's Carousel. I remember the days when Noah was too scared to go on and now he is asking for me to leave! Time goes by so fast, doesn't it???

Mother's Day finally...

Today we celebrated Mother's Day (just a few weeks late). Although I received two handmade cards from the boys and a new Le Creseut pot, Jawsh really wanted to make me breakfast for Mother's Day. He made his Barefoot Contessa inspired french toast and some french pressed coffee. It was a delicious breakfast... when will he make his Tyler inspired lasagna???

Day out with Bubbe

Today we finally celebrated Mother's Day with Bubbe. Unfortunately, we were really sick the actual weekend so we had to reschedule for today. We had a great time at the park. Noah played frisbee and Micah loved being pushed on the swing by Bubbe. Afterwards we had a delicious barbeque dinner at Bubbe's house and capped off the evening with strawberry shortcake! When will we see her again???

Happy Grad Jay!

Jay graduated from CSUN with a degree in Music! We are so proud of him, but I think his parents were much more. Everyone was so happy to be there to see him graduate. I even made him a special liquor lei (which he's wearing) full of the best spirits like Patron, Grey Goose, Knob Creek, Cointreau, to name a few. What will he do next???

Micah's first haircut

We finally took the plunge! Micah got a real haircut! We went to Kids Kut in Brentwood where all the seats are mini cars. Micah chose the jeep because of the gun rack attached to the hood. He sat quietly and listened to the hair stylist when she said, "chin up, chin down, stay still, etc..." It helped that there was a large screen television of Scooby Doo playing in front of him to keep him still and a lollipop waiting in the wings. I can't believe his hair is short! It's a little too short in my opinion, but I know it will grown back soon (hopefully). How will everyone react to his new do???

Noah's haircut

Jawsh took Noah to get his haircut today at a new salon called, Kids Kut. We usually go to the Yellow Balloon, but the stylist we like is no longer there and this salon is actually much closer. Jawsh really liked this salon because it was super kid friendly. All the seats are cars, there is a toy area, video games, and a large television. Noah chose the red sports car and enjoyed watching an episode of Spiderman. He looks older to me now that his long locks are gone... will we keep it this short???

Ode to Micah (part 4)

This is typical Micah... climbing all over the play structures. He is agile, fast, and does not like help going up ladders or walking across balance beams. He can do it all by himself (or so he thinks) and he always seems to be bumping his head (I hope there is no permanent damage). He is speaking in complete sentences and asking questions all the time. He loves super heroes especially Superman and he likes to sing the theme song everywhere... in the car, at the park, in the library (where an old lady hushed him and he stopped made eye contact with her and continued singing in whisper like tones). His favorite people on earth are Noah, S.C., Y.H., and Kaitlyn (in that order). Micah can count from 1-10 and then from 20-40. His appetite is out of control but when he eats he is happiest. Micah is still our tough baby boy, giving me premature white hair (I found one), but those hugs and irresistible dimples melt our hearts. What will he do next???

Toilet learning

Micah really is the second child! He actually stared using the potty back in March, but of course, I did not blog about it (sorry Micah)! We decided to bring it out when he was staying dry most of the night. Micah was fine going pee but he was scared about pooping. But now he has the hang of it and likes collecting stickers when he is successful. When will the pull ups come off???

Grandparents

When I was growing up, I felt like I had pretty strict parents and now I wonder where they have gone. Noah and Micah get away with so much that it's sort of remarkable to think that these are my parents. These are the same people who did not let me run in their business, whereas, the boys run AND knock over things without them getting too upset (remember Micah cracked two 5 pound watermelons). These are the same people who never bought me toys at the store (unless it was my birthday) and if Halmoni goes to Target with us, they are guaranteed to leave with something new. These are the same people who showed love through sacrifice, food, and discipline (never verbally) but are quick to say "I love you" out loud over the phone when they talk to the boys! Must be nice to have such grandparents and I have to say, that my grandparents were also very loving as well. Wonder how Jawsh and I will be in forty years when we have grandkids???

Happy Graduation Lise!

My dear friend, Lise, graduated with a Masters in Counseling! This is her second graduate degree! I was so proud watching her cross the stage on the jumbo screen while I chased Noah and Micah around the grass. Lise is such a good listener with a genuine desire to help others... she is going to be a wonderful counselor! Which institution will she work for next year???

Firefighters

The local fire station came to Noah's preschool today for their annual visit. The kids had a great time climbing through the fire engine. The fire fighters spoke about their jobs, uniforms, and vehicles. Afterwards, we took pictures with the crew and Micah wanted to give one fire fighter a hug. Isn't this too cute???

Cupcakes for Paige

Today we had a small baby shower for Paige after preschool. Although you can't tell, she's almost 36 weeks! I made homemade red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting. The cupcakes didn't turn out that red because I used hibiscus and beet extract for the coloring instead of an artificial red dye. Anyway, she enjoyed them which was the most important thing. I'm getting a small reputation at the preschool for making cupcakes... I guess it could be worse, right???

Tumbling class- session 3

Noah completed his third session of Tumbling class. He is learning so many things: tuck jumps, hand stands, and bridges! I really like the instructors and although Noah is not mastering all the moves yet, he is still enjoying himself and learning a lot. He is definitely much better balanced. I signed him up for his fourth session... what else will he learn???

Puzzle-mania

Noah has been working on puzzles lately. He started with a 24 piece SpongeBob Puzzle and then he completed a 24 piece Spiderman puzzle. I didn't know if he would be able to finish a 48 piece puzzle without help, but he did it! While Micah was taking a nap, Noah sat at the table and worked on the puzzle and was very happy with himself when he finished. What puzzle will he tackle next???

Asante

Micah and I went to Manhattan Beach to meet up with Letitia and Asante. Although Asante is not walking just yet, he was super alert and taking it all in. Micah was running around and enjoyed his new park surroundings. When will Asante start running around with Micah???

Swim class

Noah passed to the next level of swim class. Unfortunately his friends are repeating the first level, so Noah will be swimming with new kids. I hope he adjusts well. He got his first report card, which Noah calls his "post card." The majority of marks were positive but two areas he needs to work on: following directions and listening! Ahhhh... a teacher's worst nightmare! Apparently he was so comfortable in the water he was going under too much! Jawsh and I had a long talk with him and hopefully it will improve the next session. Will he pass???

Happy Easter

Today we were in Ontario celebrating Easter! The kids decorated eggs, went to church, and then went on an Easter Egg Hunt in Harabujee's backyard. As I was hiding plastic eggs full of goldfish and See's chocolate mini-eggs, Watts was finding the eggs and breaking them open with his mouth to eat the contents inside. Jawsh caught Watts twice so we had to keep an eye on him! The kids loved finding eggs and stashing the goods in their baskets... next year Emma will be old enough to run around... what will that be like???

Underwood Farms

Today we went to Underwood Farms with a few friends from preschool. The kids had a great time climbing haystacks, feeding animals, going on rides and picking fruits and vegetables. The strawberry fields were huge! Noah chose red ripe strawberries whereas Micah picked anything near his feet. The boys also picked snap peas and I got some cabbage. It was a nice day at the farm... when will we head back???

Birthday Boys

Today we ventured to Scooter's Jungle to help celebrate a friend's birthday. The kids had a great time jumping in the bounce houses, going down the gigantic slide, and zip lining! They had an awesome time... when will we go back on our own???

Huntington Gardens

Today we met up with Joel, Kristie, and Linnea at the Huntington Gardens. It was a hot day but we enjoyed the beautiful landscape. The kids had a great time at the watering holes and running through the tunnels while the adults played catch up. When will we meet up again???

Happy 60th Grandpa

Today we went to Grandpa's house to celebrate his 60th birthday! When I asked the boys what they wanted to buy Grandpa for his birthday, Noah replied, "Grandpa wants Lego Star Wars" and Micah said, "Chocolate." I think they must of heard, what do YOU want for your birthday? We had a nice time opening presents and eating Sprinkles cupcakes. What will the boys get him next year???

Yee Haw!

"Ride like the wind, Bulls-Eye!" Who is that quote from???

Date night

Date nights seemed almost impossible the past few months. With my many evening meetings at Noah's preschool and Jawsh's art classes, we exhausted the services of Uncle Zach and Dolly. Who could we leave the boys with to go out on a Saturday night? Well, I made an arrangement with one of my friends at the co-op and we decided we would watch each other's kid and swap the following Saturday. So Micah went to S.C's house and Noah went to Grandpa's and Jawsh and I went to Bouchon! It was such a great dining experience... we ate so many delicious things. Jawsh's favorite was the salmon prepared with three different types of radishes and my pork belly was pretty tasty. Where will we go next???

Playdate

Today Noah's dreams came true... his friends came over for a morning playdate since we had the day off of school in observance of Cesar Chaves. The boys loved playing with the superheroes, painting, and of course, talking about Star Wars. When will we have another playdate???

International Day

For the past few weeks, Noah's co-op has been learning about different places in the world. Each parent volunteers to expose the children to a new culture and today I got to teach the children about South Korea. I brought in Korean Shingo Pears, I taught them how to make kim-bap, and afterschool each child got a rice cake larger than the size of their face! We played a matching game with Hwatoo cards and the children also got to paint Korean fans. I really enjoyed exposing the kids to part of Noah's culture. What will I do next year???

REDCAT International Children’s Film Festival

Today we ventured to downtown LA to check out the 6th annual REDCAT International Children’s Film Festival (located next to the Disney Concert Hall pictured above). We saw short animated films from Germany, Canada, and the UK. Micah did pretty good sitting through the show (he got antsy during the last film) and Noah really enjoyed the shows. It was a great family outing. I would like to go next month before the festival is over... will that happen???

Tumbling class- session 2

Noah completed his second session of Tumbling class. He is learning so many things: tuck jumps, balance beam, and straddle flips! One of Noah's favorite things to do is the bars. I signed him up for his third session... what else will he learn???

Noah's haircut

Today we went to get Noah's haircut. It's been a long time since his last haircut and even though I like his long silky hair we knew it was getting too long when I could braid it! Here is his new look... pretty cute eh???

Date with Bubbe

Noah got to spend some one on one time with Bubbe. Here is what he described....

"I went to the new park that Bubbe took me. And then Bubbe took me to lunch. I ate a hamburger, milkshake and it was a new flavor, and then we played PacMan. I saw a dog race. They put them in a box and when they say go they run and then they get dog food. I asked two people can I pet your dogs and then they said yes. Next time it's Micah's turn to go with Bubbe because he didn't got a chance to go with Bubbe."

I'm not sure if this is 100% correct... only Bubbe can corroborate the story... but milkshakes, dog races, and a park sounds like fun, don't you think???

Swim time

Noah is taking swim lessons at the Santa Monica YMCA with a few of his friends. It's so nice that he is able to learn this skill with a bunch of his buddies from preschool. Here they are in the locker room right before they head out to lessons. How will they react to the instructors???

Another blessing

We were on our way to preschool when my front bumper was hit after two cars collided (one ran a red). The car pictured is NOT my car, it's the one that hit me after it hit the car that ran the red. This blog entry is entitled "Another blessing" because we were rear ended about 6 months ago, and like that accident no one was severely hurt. Thank God. Now we have to deal with the aftermath of insurance and fixing the car, which is not how I want to spend my time, but again, a blessing that we are all okay. Can anyone help me avoid being in the wrong place at the wrong time???

Pasta day

Noah learned how to make fresh pasta at preschool today. It was so much fun watching the kids make and then eat their pasta! Isn't it cool that his preschool does activities like this???

Cinderella!

The boys and I went to Disneyland for a few hours today (since we purchased annual passes, I am determined to go at least once a month)! We spent most of our time in Toon Town but we did get to go on rides that they love like Buzz Lightyear. We also went to the Star Wars Jedi Training Show where Noah was chosen again, this time fighting Darth Maul. As we were leaving we saw a line forming to visit Cinderella. The boys were in awe of meeting this Disney Princess and I have to say she was very sweet. She asked the boys many questions and you could tell they were enamored by her. When will we make our way over to California Disney???

Who am I?

This is a toss up... I think he looks like Carl from the Pixar movie Up (when he was a kid with the glasses)... Jawsh think he looks like one of the minions (the little yellow guys) from the movie, Despicable Me. What do you think???

Emma

Here is a recent picture of Emma in Halmoni's kitchen. She is saying a few words now and she loves seeing the boys. She still won't come to me if her parents are around but she will give me a kiss! When will she say the boys' names???

Dress-up

Noah likes to dress up with his friends as knights in preschool. The girls often dress up as princesses. Nature or nurture???

Happy Birthday Daddy!

This evening Jawsh and I went out to dinner and movie... we are such amateurs. It's been so long since we have been out on a Saturday night that we were not expecting the crowds at dinner or the theaters. We went to the Westside Tavern, before 6 PM, and were very lucky to score seats at the bar. We tried to get tickets for True Grit, but it was sold out, so we went to see The King's Speech. We came home to Uncle Zach, Dolly, and the boys who were watching a movie of their own and then we sang Happy Birthday to Daddy using a Chanukah candle... what will we do next year???

Daddy's Day

Jawsh wanted to spend part of the day at MOCA. The show, Suprasensorial: Experiments in Light, Color, and Space, is the first museum exhibition to situate pioneering Latin American artists among the international canon of those working with light and space. The five large-scale environments on view exemplified the artists' embrace of light, color, and space as art materials as well as their interest in forging a new object-viewer relationship. The boys had a great time going through the exhibit. What will we see next???

Candyland at JANM

The Japanese American National Museum is located next door to MOCA. Since we were in the area we went to the Target Free Family Saturday: Candy Land exhibit at JANM. The boys got to make candy leis and print their faces on chocolate lollipops. We also got to see the Zen Garage show featuring some cool artists. Here are the boys holding their lollipops in front of David Choe's Custom Monster Scion. When will we go back???

Who am I?

An evil comic book villain who does things according to his own twisted sense of logic, and does not desire money. If there was one thing that he did desire, it would be the power to instill anarchy into Gotham by any means necessary. Make up artists spent hours on the late Heath Ledger who portrayed this character but Micah was able to get the look after eating toast and jam... who does Micah look like???

Who am I?

A tennis prodigy, who is secretly in love with his adopted sister, Margot. He ends his successful tennis career with a nervous breakdown on court in front of thousands of fans. The character wears a headband and trademark Fila polo. Luke Wilson played this part and shaved his head... something we would never do to Noah... which character does he look like???

Just hangin'

Noah loves to get on the rings at the preschool and just hang... sometimes he tries to swing... but most of the time he likes to hang... when will he learn how to go across???

Sesame Street

Today we had a nice outing with GGA, GGT, and Bubbe. We went to the Discovery Science Center in Santa Ana where they had a special exhibit featuring Sesame Street characters. Noah and Micah enjoyed Baby Bear's Mini-Mart and Grover's Dance Party. It's been over a year since we visited this particular museum... when will we go back???