Last week we had to go to Seoul for my Drs Appointment. All started out great, both kids woke up in a good mood. We got ready, had breakfast and off to Seoul we go. For those who don’t know, Seoul is really not that far away when looking at miles. But because of traffic, it can take someone 40mins or 2 hours to arrive. This guy absolutely hates driving to Seoul and usually ends up in a bad mood because of “smart Koreans”. By the way we love them!
Anyway, not even 20 minutes into our drive there Kat- chow shouted, MOM! I turned around only to find him covered in vomit, with the saddest face I have even seen. This guy pulls over, or tried to find a spot to pull over where I wouldn’t be hit by one of the "great" drivers you will find in Korea. The entire time this guy kept yelling at the koreans driving by, freaking idiots, gah you dumb A**, it sure was fun. After much trouble trying to clean Kat-chow and avoiding being ran over, I finally cleaned as much as I could and we got back on the road. I cannot explain how strong the smell was. Even with the windows open, the heat was not helping at all. Five minutes after we were heading back toward our destination, Chubb starts to gag. And once again Kat-chow vomits and this time I had nothing to clean but a few wipes left and a blanket. We ended up having to take all his clothes off and use another blanket to cover him up. Once again we take off and hope to make it to our destination before another episode happens. Two minutes later its Chubb’s turn, I could do nothing but laugh. Luckily we were not very far from our destination, Chubb had to sit there and wait till we get to a store, where we could get some cleaning supplies and new clothing for both.
I wish all of this would have happened on the way home, mainly because we had 1 hr till my appointment and we still had to drive back home. The heat made the car have the most amazing smell, thank goodness for febreeze. By the end of the day I learned a valuable lesson. Always have extra pair of clothing for each of the kids and make sure I have plenty of wipes and napkins in the car.
What an adventure we had. Life never gets boring when you are a parent!
25 May, 2010
21 May, 2010
Daddy letter week 15-16
Hi daddy
I have very exciting news for you today, but you will have to wait till the end of the letter to find out. The bones in my ear that are responsible for hearing are developing, and my taste buds are sprouting, too. From now on, I get a flavor of whatever mommy eat via the amniotic fluid. One study shows that unborn babies swallow more amniotic fluid if it tastes sweet, and less if it's bitter. Pass the cookies! Scans at this stage have shown babies playing with the umbilical cord, snuggling up to the wall of the uterus, apparently for comfort. I have been getting regular bouts of hiccups too, which help my lungs prepare for breathing but it gets annoying after a while. Now the big news daddy, my sex organs are maturing but with a high tech ultrasound machine you can already find out if I am a boy or a girl. Mommy wanted to surprise you, so starting today you better start thinking about boy names, and its better be a good one too. Can’t wait to meet you daddy, play cars and watch football with you.
Love you more than you can imagine already. See you next week!
Three
I have very exciting news for you today, but you will have to wait till the end of the letter to find out. The bones in my ear that are responsible for hearing are developing, and my taste buds are sprouting, too. From now on, I get a flavor of whatever mommy eat via the amniotic fluid. One study shows that unborn babies swallow more amniotic fluid if it tastes sweet, and less if it's bitter. Pass the cookies! Scans at this stage have shown babies playing with the umbilical cord, snuggling up to the wall of the uterus, apparently for comfort. I have been getting regular bouts of hiccups too, which help my lungs prepare for breathing but it gets annoying after a while. Now the big news daddy, my sex organs are maturing but with a high tech ultrasound machine you can already find out if I am a boy or a girl. Mommy wanted to surprise you, so starting today you better start thinking about boy names, and its better be a good one too. Can’t wait to meet you daddy, play cars and watch football with you.
Love you more than you can imagine already. See you next week!
Three
10 May, 2010
Daddy Letter Week 13 & 14
I have some exciting news, I went through some big changes during week 13 & 14. These past two weeks I started to get ready for life in the big wide world, practicing swallowing and sucking, the skills I will need to eat. My vocal cords are developing and she's busy gaining weight. She's now five times heavier than I was at 10 weeks. And although you won't feel my movements for a few more weeks, I can feel you and mommy daddy. If you rub your bump I can sense and respond to your touch with a jerky, reflexive movement. My eyes are now in their proper position at the front of my face. My eyelids are still tightly fused, but I am already sensitive to light. For the first time my body is finally growing faster than my head, so I’m beginning to look more in proportion. You know what else is really cool daddy? I now have fingernails, toenails and hair (yes, even eyebrows). Isn’t that cool! My movements are becoming ever more sophisticated. I am practicing breathing, inhaling the amniotic fluid. I can also frown, squint and grimace, twist and turn my joints and I am even able to suck my thumb, feet and, bizarrely, knees!
Have mom started to glow yet? The second trimester is when many women start that famous pregnant glow. Also mommy’s uterus has popped out above your pelvis, so from now on your doctor will check your baby's growth by feeling your bump and measuring the distance from the top of your uterus to the top of your pubic bone. Which means people may be questioning if mommy is pregnant or not. Now that her bump is beginning to sprout, it's time for a shopping spree.
This is it for this week daddy. See you soon.
Love you
Three
Have mom started to glow yet? The second trimester is when many women start that famous pregnant glow. Also mommy’s uterus has popped out above your pelvis, so from now on your doctor will check your baby's growth by feeling your bump and measuring the distance from the top of your uterus to the top of your pubic bone. Which means people may be questioning if mommy is pregnant or not. Now that her bump is beginning to sprout, it's time for a shopping spree.
This is it for this week daddy. See you soon.
Love you
Three
09 May, 2010
HAPPY MOTHERS DAY
First I would love to wish all mothers and Happy Mother's day. I hope you all got spoiled and enjoyed your special day.
As for me, I had a magical day. My wonderful husband let me sleep in till almost 9am, then woke me up with a wonderful breakfast in bed with my two loving children. They all three just sat in bed next to me while i enjoyed my breakfast. The entire time Kachow kept singing "happy mothers day to you". I felt totally loved and appreciated. I also received some beautiful flowers, hand picked by my son. And best of all, This guy got me the most amazing gift and totally unexpected. A matching Coach purse and wallet. I KNOW!!! He is awesome!
I wish it was mother's day everyday!
07 May, 2010
Military Spouse Appreciation Day
I can say I had a good day. I woke up feeling miserable from my cold. Luckily, "This guy" came home early and made me feel very special. He treated me to my favorite soup, Baked potato soup. Yummy!!
Today is military spouse appreciation day on base. They did not do anything big nor fancy. But I have to say that just the thought and the effort to make something and give us appreciation for our sacrifices meant a lot of me. I received a beautiful yellow rose and a Korean mini vase. Two little things to just say; "thank you". Meant more than they imagine.
They also shared my favorite poem.
Today is military spouse appreciation day on base. They did not do anything big nor fancy. But I have to say that just the thought and the effort to make something and give us appreciation for our sacrifices meant a lot of me. I received a beautiful yellow rose and a Korean mini vase. Two little things to just say; "thank you". Meant more than they imagine.
They also shared my favorite poem.
The Silent Ranks
I wear no uniforms, no blues or greens.
But, I am in the military, in the ranks rarely seen.
I have no rank upon my shoulders. Salutes I do not give.
But in the military world is where I live and am rarely seen.
I am not in the chain of command, orders I do not give or get.
But my husband is the one who does, this I can not forget.
I am not the one who fires a weapon, Who puts his life on the line.
But my job is just as tough, I'm the one who is always left behind.
My husband is a patriot, a brave and pride filled man.
And the call to serve his country not all can understand.
Behind the lines, I see things needed to keep this country free.
My husband makes the sacrifice, but so do my kids and me.
I love the man I married. The military is his life.
So I pledge to support my hero and stand among the silent ranks
known as
THE MILITARY WIFE.
22 April, 2010
Daddy Letter- Week 12
Dear Daddy
I am sorry I missed week 11 daddy, it’s been a busy week. There is some exciting news for this week. The most dramatic development this week is my reflexes. My fingers will soon begin to open and close, my toes will curl, my eye muscles will clench, and my mouth will make sucking movements. In fact, if you prod mom’s abdomen, I will squirm in response, although you won't be able to feel me yet. Daddy, I am just over 2 inches long from head to toe. Close to the size of a lime. I weight just barely an ounce. I am essentially fully formed now. Everything has appeared, right down to the tiny vocal cords! All that remains to be done now is to grow and develop. How fun!
Mommy’s morning sickness or should we say: All day sickness?!! Should be getting better. I am getting so big and it makes it easier on mommy’s body to keep up with me. Mommy’s uterus is no longer being able to hide behind the pelvic cavity. You should be able to feel it and remember I will be feeling your touch. I think this is it, see you soon.
Love you dearly;
Three
I am sorry I missed week 11 daddy, it’s been a busy week. There is some exciting news for this week. The most dramatic development this week is my reflexes. My fingers will soon begin to open and close, my toes will curl, my eye muscles will clench, and my mouth will make sucking movements. In fact, if you prod mom’s abdomen, I will squirm in response, although you won't be able to feel me yet. Daddy, I am just over 2 inches long from head to toe. Close to the size of a lime. I weight just barely an ounce. I am essentially fully formed now. Everything has appeared, right down to the tiny vocal cords! All that remains to be done now is to grow and develop. How fun!
Mommy’s morning sickness or should we say: All day sickness?!! Should be getting better. I am getting so big and it makes it easier on mommy’s body to keep up with me. Mommy’s uterus is no longer being able to hide behind the pelvic cavity. You should be able to feel it and remember I will be feeling your touch. I think this is it, see you soon.
Love you dearly;
Three
Delayed
So much has happened the past few days I lost track exactly what I should be doing. Most of you probably dont know this but I have been taking Online Courses, hoping to get one step closer to my BA in Child & Family Development. It has been a true challenge, managing time to do my course and understand itself has been harder than I imagine. I have to say, I am proud of myself. Been doing really well so far.
Kiddos are doing great for those who have been asking. The only issue is Kachow going through horrifing 3's. We never really had the so called "terrible Two's" with him. I guess the 3's is the new 2's at least in our home.
Chubbs is suprising This guy and I each day with her speech. She is talking away like no other. Her new favorite sentence is " Oh, Snap!" It cracks us up every single time she says it. (Yes, Daddy has to take credit for this one)
Pregnancy is going well as far as baby health. Myself on the other hand, sick , sick , sick!! Although, the past 2 days I have not been as misearble with the morning sickness. Praying that is a good sign and this whole sickness deal is going away. I got this to share with you all...the most sweet sound ever! Three's heart beat through a home doppler.
Kiddos are doing great for those who have been asking. The only issue is Kachow going through horrifing 3's. We never really had the so called "terrible Two's" with him. I guess the 3's is the new 2's at least in our home.
Chubbs is suprising This guy and I each day with her speech. She is talking away like no other. Her new favorite sentence is " Oh, Snap!" It cracks us up every single time she says it. (Yes, Daddy has to take credit for this one)
Pregnancy is going well as far as baby health. Myself on the other hand, sick , sick , sick!! Although, the past 2 days I have not been as misearble with the morning sickness. Praying that is a good sign and this whole sickness deal is going away. I got this to share with you all...the most sweet sound ever! Three's heart beat through a home doppler.
03 April, 2010
Daddy Letter- Week 10
Dear Daddy
Did you miss me? I sure missed writing you letters. It’s been a long week! Daddy I am now the size of a kumquat. Just a little over an inch long from head to toe. And what is crazy about that is, by next week I will have more than doubled my size. I should be nearly 3 inches long in just a week. Wow, isn’t that crazy. Looks like I have a busy week ahead of me. I have also completed the most critical portion of my development. This is the beginning of the so-called fetal period, a time when the tissues and organs in my body rapidly grow and mature.
I am now swallowing fluid and kicking up a storm, soon mommy should be able to feel me. My Vital organs including my kidneys, intestines, brain, and liver (now making red blood cells ) — are in place and starting to function, though they'll continue to develop throughout the next few months till it’s time for me to finally see you.
Daddy, you know what is really cool? If you could take a peek on mommy’s womb, you'd spot minute details, like tiny nails forming on fingers and toes (no more webbing yay) and peach-fuzz hair beginning to grow on tender skin. It’s so exciting to finally look human. Not only look like one but be able to move like one too. I can now flex my hands, bends my knees, all the fun stuff. My genitals will be complete by the end of this week, although at this stage they're so tiny they won't be picked up on an ultrasound. Give a few more weeks.
I am not the only one going through quick changes, mommy is too. Before mommy got pregnant, her uterus was the size of a small pear. By this week, it's as big as a grapefruit. She may or may not be ready for maternity wear now. Even if she’s not there yet, her regular clothes are probably feeling uncomfortably tight. Get ready to spend some money daddy.
I think this is all the big news for this week daddy. See you next week with a lot of cool stuff to share.
Love you dearly;
Three
Did you miss me? I sure missed writing you letters. It’s been a long week! Daddy I am now the size of a kumquat. Just a little over an inch long from head to toe. And what is crazy about that is, by next week I will have more than doubled my size. I should be nearly 3 inches long in just a week. Wow, isn’t that crazy. Looks like I have a busy week ahead of me. I have also completed the most critical portion of my development. This is the beginning of the so-called fetal period, a time when the tissues and organs in my body rapidly grow and mature.
I am now swallowing fluid and kicking up a storm, soon mommy should be able to feel me. My Vital organs including my kidneys, intestines, brain, and liver (now making red blood cells ) — are in place and starting to function, though they'll continue to develop throughout the next few months till it’s time for me to finally see you.
Daddy, you know what is really cool? If you could take a peek on mommy’s womb, you'd spot minute details, like tiny nails forming on fingers and toes (no more webbing yay) and peach-fuzz hair beginning to grow on tender skin. It’s so exciting to finally look human. Not only look like one but be able to move like one too. I can now flex my hands, bends my knees, all the fun stuff. My genitals will be complete by the end of this week, although at this stage they're so tiny they won't be picked up on an ultrasound. Give a few more weeks.
I am not the only one going through quick changes, mommy is too. Before mommy got pregnant, her uterus was the size of a small pear. By this week, it's as big as a grapefruit. She may or may not be ready for maternity wear now. Even if she’s not there yet, her regular clothes are probably feeling uncomfortably tight. Get ready to spend some money daddy.
I think this is all the big news for this week daddy. See you next week with a lot of cool stuff to share.
Love you dearly;
Three
29 March, 2010
Just precious
Now this is a funny video to watch. Me a proud mommy was trying to make a video of my 17 month old girl to show her off. Chubbs is something else. She is very careful with all that she does, eats well on her own, drink from a cup or water bottle without messes. Super polite, covers her mouth when coughs, says sorry, please, thank you and so forth. But then her funny daddy had to add his own little thing on the video.
I have to admit, even though was not what I was going for. Sure made the video one of those to cherish forever.
Enjoy
I have to admit, even though was not what I was going for. Sure made the video one of those to cherish forever.
Enjoy
New Facial
"Chubbs" our totally girly girl daughter, decided to come up with a new facial. Lime popsicle facial. Apperently is really good.
25 March, 2010
Latest
What is new with us?
"This guy" has been working more than usual, making it that much harder to be here in Korea. For those who haven't heard yet, we have been trying really hard to enjoy our stay here. Its been over a year and we are still working on it.
I really believe if Koreans took care of their country, were less nosy, less inconsiderate, made their cities/country more kid friendly and didn't eat kimchi it probably wouldn't be so bad. I can honestly say the hardest part for me, is how difficult it is to just go out and do something with the kids. The base is totally not family ready. Have very little we can do with little ones. They used to have a playgroup was only running for a short period of time. It is depressing and boring. Specially since I used to be the "on the go" mom. Always somewhere doing something and only home for nap times and to do some house chores.
Now being pregnant, with two toddlers and in this "wonderful" place. Has made me so much stronger in some areas of my life and personality and for sure has made me weak in a few areas. I cant recall one time that I have been so negative and depressed about the place I'm currently at. I hate to admit but i absolutely hate Korea and I will not miss one single thing about this place.
Being here has made me love and miss things that I never thought I would. Like Walmart!! Man I cant wait to go to walmart! Hahah
On a happy note, yesterday I went to a Korean Dr to check the baby progress since the base wont see me till 18 weeks. Stupid, but my experience with that Korean Dr was better than I thought it would be. Maybe because I went in thinking it would be the worse experience ever. To my surprise the Dr actually spoke English and was extremely cheap. Baby is doing great, measuring on target with Due date Oct 29, 2010. Baby's heart rate was 165BPM. "Three" Looked great!
I'm praying so hard this morning sickness eases up soon. Spring is here and is finally starting to warm up a bit. We will soon be able to do a few extra things that we cant now. "Kachow" is really looking forward for some pool time.
With this pregnancy I decided to try something new to help "This Guy" bond a little more with "Three". A friend of mine tried something similar, I thought it was a neat idea. I have been weekly writing "Daddy Letters" for "This Guy". I think he has been enjoying them. This week was the coolest so far. Our baby has fingerprints =)
Kiddos are getting in trouble. Better run!
"This guy" has been working more than usual, making it that much harder to be here in Korea. For those who haven't heard yet, we have been trying really hard to enjoy our stay here. Its been over a year and we are still working on it.
I really believe if Koreans took care of their country, were less nosy, less inconsiderate, made their cities/country more kid friendly and didn't eat kimchi it probably wouldn't be so bad. I can honestly say the hardest part for me, is how difficult it is to just go out and do something with the kids. The base is totally not family ready. Have very little we can do with little ones. They used to have a playgroup was only running for a short period of time. It is depressing and boring. Specially since I used to be the "on the go" mom. Always somewhere doing something and only home for nap times and to do some house chores.
Now being pregnant, with two toddlers and in this "wonderful" place. Has made me so much stronger in some areas of my life and personality and for sure has made me weak in a few areas. I cant recall one time that I have been so negative and depressed about the place I'm currently at. I hate to admit but i absolutely hate Korea and I will not miss one single thing about this place.
Being here has made me love and miss things that I never thought I would. Like Walmart!! Man I cant wait to go to walmart! Hahah
On a happy note, yesterday I went to a Korean Dr to check the baby progress since the base wont see me till 18 weeks. Stupid, but my experience with that Korean Dr was better than I thought it would be. Maybe because I went in thinking it would be the worse experience ever. To my surprise the Dr actually spoke English and was extremely cheap. Baby is doing great, measuring on target with Due date Oct 29, 2010. Baby's heart rate was 165BPM. "Three" Looked great!
I'm praying so hard this morning sickness eases up soon. Spring is here and is finally starting to warm up a bit. We will soon be able to do a few extra things that we cant now. "Kachow" is really looking forward for some pool time.
With this pregnancy I decided to try something new to help "This Guy" bond a little more with "Three". A friend of mine tried something similar, I thought it was a neat idea. I have been weekly writing "Daddy Letters" for "This Guy". I think he has been enjoying them. This week was the coolest so far. Our baby has fingerprints =)
Kiddos are getting in trouble. Better run!
23 March, 2010
Back ( I think)
Here it goes. Another attempt to blog. I honestly don't know how people can keep up with blogs when there are so much stuff to keep up with.
I have several friends who update their blogs every day, some even multiple times a day. I can say sometimes I wish I could do that.
There are too many funny things that happens daily with our kids and here in Korea that I wish I could blog it all. That been said, I will once again try to keep this up to date.
I have several friends who update their blogs every day, some even multiple times a day. I can say sometimes I wish I could do that.
There are too many funny things that happens daily with our kids and here in Korea that I wish I could blog it all. That been said, I will once again try to keep this up to date.
05 April, 2009
Bath Bombs/Fizzies
One of the things I have always enjoyed is bath time. After a long day, there is nothing more relaxing than filling up the tub with nice warm water. Light up a few candles and throw one or two bath bombs (also known as bath fizzies) and just relax.
I have always done that, it is my 20 minutes of peace and total relaxation. Afraid I wouldn’t be able to find any here in Korea, I brought a few with me. But it was only enough for a few days. After a few weeks of having bath time with no bath bombs, I realized how much they really help you relax. The oil and the fragrance are very soothing. It is also a great feeling afterwards. Your skin is soft and smells great for hours.
After realizing this, I immediately started searching for some. Online they are just too expensive to get them shipped here. I looked at the BX they had 3 and they were only 99c too. I was ecstatic. As soon as the kids were asleep guess what I did??
I was so disappointed. They had little fragrance and they were oil free. I guess you get what you paid for, right? With huge disappointment, I commented to This Guy that I will have to look for them off base and only hope Koreans use them too. (Very unlikely)
Smart as he is, he replied, “why don’t you learn how to make them?”
I had not thought about it but this was a great idea. I started googling, trying to find what I needed to make them and how. I found a few sites and even video showing how to make them. I also learned that the better resources you buy the better they will be. Well I ended up spending more money than I was expecting to. But I ordered a Bath Bomb Starter Kit that supposedly comes with everything you need to make them.
I did it!! They are amazing!!(They might not look the best, but for first try I think I did a pretty good job). This guy tried it and I think for the past week he has been using them almost every night too. I made lavender fragrance (my favorite) and vitamin E. All I have to say is. IM NEVER BUYING BATH BOMBS AGAIN!!
Making them was a blast and using them was even better! Let me know if any of you would like to try one. I will proudly send you a couple! Now I can slowly buy different fragrances and make them in different colors too. WOOHOO!!!
I have always done that, it is my 20 minutes of peace and total relaxation. Afraid I wouldn’t be able to find any here in Korea, I brought a few with me. But it was only enough for a few days. After a few weeks of having bath time with no bath bombs, I realized how much they really help you relax. The oil and the fragrance are very soothing. It is also a great feeling afterwards. Your skin is soft and smells great for hours.
After realizing this, I immediately started searching for some. Online they are just too expensive to get them shipped here. I looked at the BX they had 3 and they were only 99c too. I was ecstatic. As soon as the kids were asleep guess what I did??
I was so disappointed. They had little fragrance and they were oil free. I guess you get what you paid for, right? With huge disappointment, I commented to This Guy that I will have to look for them off base and only hope Koreans use them too. (Very unlikely)
Smart as he is, he replied, “why don’t you learn how to make them?”
I had not thought about it but this was a great idea. I started googling, trying to find what I needed to make them and how. I found a few sites and even video showing how to make them. I also learned that the better resources you buy the better they will be. Well I ended up spending more money than I was expecting to. But I ordered a Bath Bomb Starter Kit that supposedly comes with everything you need to make them.
I did it!! They are amazing!!(They might not look the best, but for first try I think I did a pretty good job). This guy tried it and I think for the past week he has been using them almost every night too. I made lavender fragrance (my favorite) and vitamin E. All I have to say is. IM NEVER BUYING BATH BOMBS AGAIN!!
Making them was a blast and using them was even better! Let me know if any of you would like to try one. I will proudly send you a couple! Now I can slowly buy different fragrances and make them in different colors too. WOOHOO!!!
Fine Wine & Bread
Ha-ha, that’s not exactly everything I said. He left out the part he probably didn’t like. Where I compared him to the best home made bread.
The first few days it surprises you just how delicious it taste, how you can’t get enough of it. Even after a few weeks being old, you still want to eat it. But as it gets older it starts to build up some molds on it.
Then I said “Don’t get me wrong it still taste good, at least the parts that don’t have mold.” No one is perfect, there is no such a thing as a perfect relationship or person. But ours is pretty darn close!! I still can’t believe we have been together for 6 years. Feels like yesterday!
The first few days it surprises you just how delicious it taste, how you can’t get enough of it. Even after a few weeks being old, you still want to eat it. But as it gets older it starts to build up some molds on it.
Then I said “Don’t get me wrong it still taste good, at least the parts that don’t have mold.” No one is perfect, there is no such a thing as a perfect relationship or person. But ours is pretty darn close!! I still can’t believe we have been together for 6 years. Feels like yesterday!
04 April, 2009
Fine Wine vs. Spam
Discussions about relationships have always been a bane to me. I avoid them like I avoid midgets. Yes, I can tolerate them, but I feel really uncomfortable around them. So, Boa starts talking about our relationship, so all of my defenses come on and I’m ready to start shooting down anything that enters my proverbial airspace. But she’s complimenting me. So my defenses remain ready, but I’m starting to question her intent and wonder if she’s working me for a something expensive.
Turns out, she was just making a comment on how we have been able to keep our relationship thriving even after six years of marriage. Then she made a comment that she thought that I may even be sweeter now than I was 6 years (and 20 lbs) ago. So I made the comment that I am like fine wine, I get better with age.
Confused, she inquired, “If you are fine wine, what does that make me?”
My instant response: “Spam.”
“WHAT!?” was the expected reply.
In a literal knee jerk reaction, I bladed my body, bringing my left leg up to block any shot to the groin while I raised my left arm to intercept any strikes to the face. (Good thing I kept my defenses on!) But the attack never came, only a look of disbelief.
Never changing my defensive posture I started to explain: “Sweetie, it’s because you are just as delicious and tasty the day you were canned as you will be in 50 years!” I think that saved me, but I’m still in my defensive stance… just in case.
Turns out, she was just making a comment on how we have been able to keep our relationship thriving even after six years of marriage. Then she made a comment that she thought that I may even be sweeter now than I was 6 years (and 20 lbs) ago. So I made the comment that I am like fine wine, I get better with age.
Confused, she inquired, “If you are fine wine, what does that make me?”
My instant response: “Spam.”
“WHAT!?” was the expected reply.
In a literal knee jerk reaction, I bladed my body, bringing my left leg up to block any shot to the groin while I raised my left arm to intercept any strikes to the face. (Good thing I kept my defenses on!) But the attack never came, only a look of disbelief.
Never changing my defensive posture I started to explain: “Sweetie, it’s because you are just as delicious and tasty the day you were canned as you will be in 50 years!” I think that saved me, but I’m still in my defensive stance… just in case.
03 April, 2009
Big Cool
About a month ago, Kachow saw a pediatric therapist for an assessment on his development. During this assessment the therapist determined Kachow was behind on his fine motor skillz and slightly on his communication. The kid can jump off a countertop unassisted and land on his feet, but the therapist thought he was behind. (I think he was just not interested in what the therapist was trying to get him to do) So, we have been working with him constantly helping him improve his communication and fine motor skillz. So, after his last check-up, the therapist mentioned how amazed she was with his improvement in communication (still working on the motor skillz). Kachow has been increasing his vocabulary and learning sign language, and has impressed Boa and I very much with his improvement. Before he would whine and point when he wanted something, now, three weeks later he will say something while he signs it such as “more juice please.” But the coolest thing he has started doing, besides fist bumps, is how he talks about himself. For instance, he will jump off the couch, over the chair Chubs is sitting in, land on his feet, turn around and say “Did you see that? I’m big cool!” After catching our breath, we reply “Yeah, you ARE big cool!”
02 April, 2009
First Solids
So I know Double A isn’t 6 months yet, but her Pediatrician told us to watch out for signs of wanting to eat solids. Well, Double A has been following all of our foods and drinks with her eyes and hands and she is always opening her mouth. biting, etc.
Since she is only few days shy from 6 months I decided to go ahead and try some green beans and see how she does.
HOLLY COW!! The girl was acting like she hasn’t had anything to eat since she was born. Of course, I expect her to have one or two bites but 99% of it comes back out and I catch and back in. You know the whole training stage, but no, the girl had only had a tiny bit come out every time. She was really eating, I could not believe it! She had half of the #1 jar after having about 3-4oz of formula.
A few days ago This Guy was drinking a Pepsi and Double A was watching him, seeming very interested. So he put a little drop of Pepsi on her mouth and her reaction was priceless! She jerked back in surprise of with her eyes wide open, and then paused, staring at her dad. Then she smiled really big and reached for the can and wanted more.
So today I didn’t feed her formula before, I waited till dinner was done. So we all could enjoy a meal together as a family. She had 1 first stage solids of carrots and half of green beans, before she started spitting all out and showing she was done. Impressive! She is so chubby already. Maybe we should change her nick name to Chubs.
Since she is only few days shy from 6 months I decided to go ahead and try some green beans and see how she does.
HOLLY COW!! The girl was acting like she hasn’t had anything to eat since she was born. Of course, I expect her to have one or two bites but 99% of it comes back out and I catch and back in. You know the whole training stage, but no, the girl had only had a tiny bit come out every time. She was really eating, I could not believe it! She had half of the #1 jar after having about 3-4oz of formula.
A few days ago This Guy was drinking a Pepsi and Double A was watching him, seeming very interested. So he put a little drop of Pepsi on her mouth and her reaction was priceless! She jerked back in surprise of with her eyes wide open, and then paused, staring at her dad. Then she smiled really big and reached for the can and wanted more.
So today I didn’t feed her formula before, I waited till dinner was done. So we all could enjoy a meal together as a family. She had 1 first stage solids of carrots and half of green beans, before she started spitting all out and showing she was done. Impressive! She is so chubby already. Maybe we should change her nick name to Chubs.
31 March, 2009
Fun day at the park or should I say ER??
It is not a fun day when Kachow gets bored. Nothing seemed to work, so I tried to prevent his boredom by going to the BX playground. So there I am, tired after a night of only 3 hrs total of sleep, strolling the kids to the BX.
One of the wonderful things about going to the BX so Kachow can play is the food court. They have Taco Bell, Subway, Pizza the Hutt and a few other places. Taco Bell sounded very good, so before dropping him off., we stopped by Taco Bell and got some lunch. Kachow had a soft taco and I got a crunch wrap supreme. It was delicious.
I would say within 30 minutes or so, it wasn’t so delicious anymore. I started feeling really sick, very nauseated. So quickly I got Kachow back on the stroller. (Throwing a fit of course, “hello mom, we just got here!”) The walk home which usually is only 5-10 minutes seemed an eternity. Something was wrong, my legs started to shake and my head was somewhat spinning.
I barely made it home; I have never thrown up like this when NOT pregnant. After that I got back in the living room to get the kids out of the stroller. Not making it to Double A in time I had to run back to the bathroom. This time much worse, even blood came out, my stomach hurt badly. I started getting very lightheaded and sleepy. I got Double A out of the stroller, put her on her boppy chair and sat in the couch. I could not lay down, the nausea was awful. I was so sleepy I could barely keep my eyes open. I think there was a time I actually fell asleep because it seemed like I was hallucinating. Now it’s the runs…
My sweet son comes and sits on top of me, “mamma You, k?” He started loading me with kisses. I said “No, hunny, mommy is not ok.” He then started jumping on me trying to entertain me. Not really knowing, poor thing, that it was only making it worse. Here I am, half asleep, throwing up and trying to get a hold of This Guy but he won’t answer his phone. I knew I needed to see a doctor ASAP. Before I was able to get a hold of This Guy I had already thrown up 3 times and one of those with blood and acid. (Sorry, TMI)
Luckily, I was able to get someone from church to watch the kids while I walked to the ER. Thank goodness it’s right across the street from our building. While seeing the doctor, he asked where my accent was from. I mentioned I was from Brazil and he made the comment he was in Brazil 10 years ago. Knowing the answer I asked what he was in Brazil for. He said he was a missionary. So I said “Oh, you are LDS?” and he replied he was. So, eventually the story ends with me finding out it was his wife who was watching the kids. After a few hours at the ER, they gave me a shot of Zofran, I had already thrown up twice with nothing in it just fluids. They told me I am not yet dehydrated. YAY!! They gave me some pills to take home in case the nausea/vomiting won’t stop. Looks like I wont be eating Taco Bell for a long time.
One of the wonderful things about going to the BX so Kachow can play is the food court. They have Taco Bell, Subway, Pizza the Hutt and a few other places. Taco Bell sounded very good, so before dropping him off., we stopped by Taco Bell and got some lunch. Kachow had a soft taco and I got a crunch wrap supreme. It was delicious.
I would say within 30 minutes or so, it wasn’t so delicious anymore. I started feeling really sick, very nauseated. So quickly I got Kachow back on the stroller. (Throwing a fit of course, “hello mom, we just got here!”) The walk home which usually is only 5-10 minutes seemed an eternity. Something was wrong, my legs started to shake and my head was somewhat spinning.
I barely made it home; I have never thrown up like this when NOT pregnant. After that I got back in the living room to get the kids out of the stroller. Not making it to Double A in time I had to run back to the bathroom. This time much worse, even blood came out, my stomach hurt badly. I started getting very lightheaded and sleepy. I got Double A out of the stroller, put her on her boppy chair and sat in the couch. I could not lay down, the nausea was awful. I was so sleepy I could barely keep my eyes open. I think there was a time I actually fell asleep because it seemed like I was hallucinating. Now it’s the runs…
My sweet son comes and sits on top of me, “mamma You, k?” He started loading me with kisses. I said “No, hunny, mommy is not ok.” He then started jumping on me trying to entertain me. Not really knowing, poor thing, that it was only making it worse. Here I am, half asleep, throwing up and trying to get a hold of This Guy but he won’t answer his phone. I knew I needed to see a doctor ASAP. Before I was able to get a hold of This Guy I had already thrown up 3 times and one of those with blood and acid. (Sorry, TMI)
Luckily, I was able to get someone from church to watch the kids while I walked to the ER. Thank goodness it’s right across the street from our building. While seeing the doctor, he asked where my accent was from. I mentioned I was from Brazil and he made the comment he was in Brazil 10 years ago. Knowing the answer I asked what he was in Brazil for. He said he was a missionary. So I said “Oh, you are LDS?” and he replied he was. So, eventually the story ends with me finding out it was his wife who was watching the kids. After a few hours at the ER, they gave me a shot of Zofran, I had already thrown up twice with nothing in it just fluids. They told me I am not yet dehydrated. YAY!! They gave me some pills to take home in case the nausea/vomiting won’t stop. Looks like I wont be eating Taco Bell for a long time.
27 March, 2009
Chores
We have been talking about when Kachow will be old enough to start earning an allowance and what kinds of things he will be able to do around the house. The obvious was cleaning up his room, which he sometimes does now. So we are starting to try out a few things and this is our latest trial, which went fairly well!
13 March, 2009
Chocolate and No Pants
Friday!! Finally! We were planning on going to a movie tonight, but we never got around to calling the babysitter. Maybe tomorrow.
So there we are at Chili's (I know we eat there too much) and we are all entertained by Kachow. He is being his usual silly self and everyone is laughing at him and the waitresses are all stopping by say "Oh, rittle boy verry cute! Nay?"
All of this attention starts to make Double A a little jealous, so she starts to make little noises trying to get our attention and it freaks out the waitresses who didn't see her: "Oh, anudder rone!"
This attention doesn't last long because the ribs are too delicious and Kachow is starting something else funny. Double A doesn't like this, so she is quite for a bit while she plots how to get our attention.
I finish the last bites of my salmon while Boa is picking the meat off the last rib when we are overtaken by the scent of Kimchi, and not just your normal 4 year old cabbage kimchi, I'm talking 16 year spicy cabbage that has long fermented into something unrecognizable as being from earth. Guess where it came from? Double A's diaper.
Boa, needing to act quickly to save the lives of those in the immediate vicinity, grabbed a diaper, wipes and the rotten one and took off towards the bathroom. An unusual amount of time later, Boa returned with one less diaper and a naked baby. Apparently pampers are not designed to hold a pound of 16 year old kimchi.
Luckily we had an extra sweatshirt for Double A in the stroller, so the lucky girl got to go home with no pants.
Some of you may know that Kachow has had a unique character flaw, in that he has never liked sweets, to include chocolate. Whenever we offer him sweets, he always turns his head and says "no."
Today, I bought some Dove chocolate eggs and he asked for one. Knowing he was just going to take a bite, spit it out and never ask for one again, I gave him a bite. Wrong thing to do. For the next half hour I couldn't get him to stop asking for more.
He has a hard time saying CHOCOLATE, but the word improved 100% by the time we put him to bed. It showed how motivated he was to learn the word 'chocolate' so he could properly ask for some. He even busted out some sign language he just learned from a DVD his grandmother gave him for his birthday to say "please."
Just like everything else, you have to find the right motivation to get kids to learn. He wanted chocolate, so he learned how to ask properly, because he knows if he asks properly he will get it (even if it is right before bed).
So there we are at Chili's (I know we eat there too much) and we are all entertained by Kachow. He is being his usual silly self and everyone is laughing at him and the waitresses are all stopping by say "Oh, rittle boy verry cute! Nay?"
All of this attention starts to make Double A a little jealous, so she starts to make little noises trying to get our attention and it freaks out the waitresses who didn't see her: "Oh, anudder rone!"
This attention doesn't last long because the ribs are too delicious and Kachow is starting something else funny. Double A doesn't like this, so she is quite for a bit while she plots how to get our attention.
I finish the last bites of my salmon while Boa is picking the meat off the last rib when we are overtaken by the scent of Kimchi, and not just your normal 4 year old cabbage kimchi, I'm talking 16 year spicy cabbage that has long fermented into something unrecognizable as being from earth. Guess where it came from? Double A's diaper.
Boa, needing to act quickly to save the lives of those in the immediate vicinity, grabbed a diaper, wipes and the rotten one and took off towards the bathroom. An unusual amount of time later, Boa returned with one less diaper and a naked baby. Apparently pampers are not designed to hold a pound of 16 year old kimchi.
Luckily we had an extra sweatshirt for Double A in the stroller, so the lucky girl got to go home with no pants.
Some of you may know that Kachow has had a unique character flaw, in that he has never liked sweets, to include chocolate. Whenever we offer him sweets, he always turns his head and says "no."
Today, I bought some Dove chocolate eggs and he asked for one. Knowing he was just going to take a bite, spit it out and never ask for one again, I gave him a bite. Wrong thing to do. For the next half hour I couldn't get him to stop asking for more.
He has a hard time saying CHOCOLATE, but the word improved 100% by the time we put him to bed. It showed how motivated he was to learn the word 'chocolate' so he could properly ask for some. He even busted out some sign language he just learned from a DVD his grandmother gave him for his birthday to say "please."
Just like everything else, you have to find the right motivation to get kids to learn. He wanted chocolate, so he learned how to ask properly, because he knows if he asks properly he will get it (even if it is right before bed).
11 March, 2009
Big 2
Monday we celebrated the second anniversary of a 6.1lb growth removed from Boa's abdomen; or, Kachow's 2nd birthday.
This is what he has to say about it:
As you can tell from the picture, not many of the baloons made it through the night, but he is still having a blast with all of the baloons that are left. Since it's his b-day, he gets to pick what he does all day. Guess what he picks? The Park. He spends so much time at the park that finally, after a little dinner at the BX playground he hands Boa his shoes and asks to go home. At home waiting for him on the table is this:
Kachow freaked out and wouldn't stop say "CAR! CAR!" So we had to hurry up and blow out the candle:
He blew out the candle no problem! I know it looks like I was helping to blow, but I'm really saying "Blow!" He got REALLY excited when he blew out the candle:
This is what he has to say about it:v m,d'n gvhwmwmwmwmwmwmwmwmwmwmwm,,,,m thamks,.mm m x9hxsjdkf;vsd.v cbabclvccz cxcvty
Yes, that was all him, including the "thamks." Anyhow, Boa and I decided it would be really cool to fill his room with ballons while he was sleeping so he would get a huge surprise when he woke up.
We thought it was a ton of ballons, mainly because we were both feeling very funny after blowing up that many ballons, but when we put them in his room we realized it would take a LOT more to cover the floor. The morning of Kachow's birthday, Boa awoke to screams from Kachow's room of "YEAH!" She opened the door, and there he was:
As you can tell from the picture, not many of the baloons made it through the night, but he is still having a blast with all of the baloons that are left. Since it's his b-day, he gets to pick what he does all day. Guess what he picks? The Park. He spends so much time at the park that finally, after a little dinner at the BX playground he hands Boa his shoes and asks to go home. At home waiting for him on the table is this: Kachow freaked out and wouldn't stop say "CAR! CAR!" So we had to hurry up and blow out the candle:
He blew out the candle no problem! I know it looks like I was helping to blow, but I'm really saying "Blow!" He got REALLY excited when he blew out the candle:And then everything changed... he accidentally stuck his hand in the icing:
Kachow has a little OCD when it comes to his hands. He CANNOT stand sticky things on his hands. We have been trying to work with him on it with lotion and hand sanitizer, but it always ends up in his hair. After about 5 minutes of trying to clean him while he is flipping out (icing is all over Dad and the wall by now) we get him calmed down and we start taking family pictures:
As you can see from the picture, Double A is mesmorized by the balloons as well. All in all, Kachow's birthday part was wonderful. No annoying little kids terrorizing the house; no annoying parents terrorizing the kids; no terrible mess to clean up aftwards. I guess when he turns 3 we'll actually have to have a real birthday party, because he might remember that one.
08 March, 2009
Single Ladies
Here is a video of Kachow dancing to "Single Ladies" by Beyonce. Ignore the pajamas at 3pm and the mess in the background (it was a lazy saturday... I hope).
Photos!
We promised pictures 2 months ago, so here they are!
Kachow and Double A in Boa's new stroller (Brithday/Christmas/Anniversary gift for the next 7 years)
This is what happens when you don't look where you are going.
Someone was sick of Mom taking pictures.
Delicious!
Best Friends!
No matter where you go in there world there are a few things you can never get rid of.
More of a suggestion.
Say CHEESE!
Double A chillin'
Chillin' again in the stroller at the park.The Land of the Rising Sun
Annyong haseyo! Roughly translated, that means Howdy! 80 days down, only 650 to go! So much has happened since we got here, but I can't remember it all. I'll just start from this week.
Kachow turns 2 tomorrow! He has no idea, but it's fun for us anyway. His party will themed "Cars (Disney/Pixar) and Spongebob Squarepants." Obviously, this is because we let him pick. He wanted them both, and it's his birthday, so he gets whatever he wants. Plus, it's going to just be a small gathering... Mom, Dad, Kachow and Double A. For Kachow's birthday we got him the coolest table to play with his cars! Unfortunately, it was too big to ship to an APO (by 1 flipping inch!) and it is sitting at Mi-ma's house. Hopefully he'll have it here by Christmas.
Some of you will remember Frank, our beta when we lived in Florida. We couldn't take Frank with us, we had to find him a new home with lots of friends. We were able to find a replacement for Frank here in Korea. Kachow took it upon himself to name the fish. So now we not only have cheese on our Pizza's, but we have Cheese in the fishbowl too. Kachow likes to feed Cheese every morning when he wakes up, and he won't go to bed without saying goodnight to him. This time we made it very clear that the fish are not allowed to make phone calls.
Kachow turns 2 tomorrow! He has no idea, but it's fun for us anyway. His party will themed "Cars (Disney/Pixar) and Spongebob Squarepants." Obviously, this is because we let him pick. He wanted them both, and it's his birthday, so he gets whatever he wants. Plus, it's going to just be a small gathering... Mom, Dad, Kachow and Double A. For Kachow's birthday we got him the coolest table to play with his cars! Unfortunately, it was too big to ship to an APO (by 1 flipping inch!) and it is sitting at Mi-ma's house. Hopefully he'll have it here by Christmas.
Some of you will remember Frank, our beta when we lived in Florida. We couldn't take Frank with us, we had to find him a new home with lots of friends. We were able to find a replacement for Frank here in Korea. Kachow took it upon himself to name the fish. So now we not only have cheese on our Pizza's, but we have Cheese in the fishbowl too. Kachow likes to feed Cheese every morning when he wakes up, and he won't go to bed without saying goodnight to him. This time we made it very clear that the fish are not allowed to make phone calls.
3:00 in The Morning
It was 3:00 in the morning and I was wide awake. I lay there, thinking. Wow only 4 hours of sleep and I feel fully rested and the most energy I've had the past 6 months.
Most of you know all the issues we have been dealing with Double A. Her feeding issues, reflux, no sleep and rashes. Well the past few months we have been doing researches trying to find just the right formula for the little girl. We tried everything that could help a baby who is Lactose intolerant as they claim she is. Nutramigen helped a lot but she was still not a normal baby with normal fussiness here and there. Double A would hardly sleep and be always on the screaming mode. Always had some kind of rash, most diaper rashes even with loads of cream.
Anyway long story short, we decided to try this formula that is milk based but with broken down protein and something else that supposed to help with fussiness and gas. I thought to myself, what can we loose? $12 bux which was the price of the Can. I have been desperate to find a solution as I was hitting my limits on how much more of the stress and none sleep I could take.
First two days on the formula, nothing really changed, she was somewhat happier. But the third day she passed so much gasses, and had a few exploded diapers. A week into this formula she decreased her awaking times and took almost 3 hrs nap. I couldn't believe it and would constantly be checking on her making sure she was breathing. Two days later, day 10 on this new formula, Double A woke up every 2-3hrs at night, which was amazing to me YAY!!
Day 11-- Double A is crying, I woke up, looked at the clock...3:00 am my heart started racing and I jumped out of bed and ran to her room thinking. Crap I fell asleep so deeply that I didn't hear her crying. I had this huge gilt feeling thinking she has been crying for a while. No her face wasn't red, she wasn't really screaming and she was still groggy. I fed her and she was back asleep in the middle of feeding. Yes, she just woke up. 3am and she just woke up. This is a big deal!!!
Now me? What do I do about myself? I am wide awake 3am feeling fully rested. How can someone feel fully rested with just 4hrs of sleep?For the first time in 6 months I have gotten more then 3hrs straight of sleep. I went back to bed to force myself to get some more sleep. My mind wouldn't shut up and I could not fall back asleep. This guy sort of woke up and I said, Hun I cant sleep. All he said was, get on the elliptical.
Eventually I was able to go back to sleep which was around 4:40am and double A woke up again at 5:15 and for good at 6:50am
Double A is doing so well that she is waking only 2-3 times at night. I know to some this may be a lot still for a 4 almost 5 months baby but for her it is very few. I have forgotten how wonderful it is to go on with your day not feeling like you have been dragging yourself around in order to get things accomplished.
Most of you know all the issues we have been dealing with Double A. Her feeding issues, reflux, no sleep and rashes. Well the past few months we have been doing researches trying to find just the right formula for the little girl. We tried everything that could help a baby who is Lactose intolerant as they claim she is. Nutramigen helped a lot but she was still not a normal baby with normal fussiness here and there. Double A would hardly sleep and be always on the screaming mode. Always had some kind of rash, most diaper rashes even with loads of cream.
Anyway long story short, we decided to try this formula that is milk based but with broken down protein and something else that supposed to help with fussiness and gas. I thought to myself, what can we loose? $12 bux which was the price of the Can. I have been desperate to find a solution as I was hitting my limits on how much more of the stress and none sleep I could take.
First two days on the formula, nothing really changed, she was somewhat happier. But the third day she passed so much gasses, and had a few exploded diapers. A week into this formula she decreased her awaking times and took almost 3 hrs nap. I couldn't believe it and would constantly be checking on her making sure she was breathing. Two days later, day 10 on this new formula, Double A woke up every 2-3hrs at night, which was amazing to me YAY!!
Day 11-- Double A is crying, I woke up, looked at the clock...3:00 am my heart started racing and I jumped out of bed and ran to her room thinking. Crap I fell asleep so deeply that I didn't hear her crying. I had this huge gilt feeling thinking she has been crying for a while. No her face wasn't red, she wasn't really screaming and she was still groggy. I fed her and she was back asleep in the middle of feeding. Yes, she just woke up. 3am and she just woke up. This is a big deal!!!
Now me? What do I do about myself? I am wide awake 3am feeling fully rested. How can someone feel fully rested with just 4hrs of sleep?For the first time in 6 months I have gotten more then 3hrs straight of sleep. I went back to bed to force myself to get some more sleep. My mind wouldn't shut up and I could not fall back asleep. This guy sort of woke up and I said, Hun I cant sleep. All he said was, get on the elliptical.
Eventually I was able to go back to sleep which was around 4:40am and double A woke up again at 5:15 and for good at 6:50am
Double A is doing so well that she is waking only 2-3 times at night. I know to some this may be a lot still for a 4 almost 5 months baby but for her it is very few. I have forgotten how wonderful it is to go on with your day not feeling like you have been dragging yourself around in order to get things accomplished.
05 March, 2009
Back in business
I am proud and happy to announce that we are back in business! A good friend of mine helped me get blogspot in english. Now we can log in again and post away! WOOHOO!!
Ill be back once the kids are sleeping to post updates!
Ill be back once the kids are sleeping to post updates!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)