lukas&matilda

Plenty of candy

2010-11-07T14:10:00.000-08:00

Due to my sister in law's wedding this past week, I forgot to post our Halloween photos. Well, here there are. We had lots of fun trick and treating in Grandma's hood. Matilda got scared while walking up to few houses but she still went to make sure she got her fair share of candy.

Boba Fett & Dancing Butterfly:

Trick or Treat!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T16:40:00.000-07:00

From Matilda, the dancing butterfly, and Lukas, the Bobba Fett. More pictures to follow.

Hawaii Fall 2010 - Climbing the Diamond Head

2010-10-12T05:54:00.000-07:00

This time, we have managed to not only sit at the pool, but also go for a super hike up the Diamond Head on Oahu. We hiked 0.8 mile up and down. Lukas managed to go all the way by himself and Matilda climbed on Patrick's arm.

The view is spectacular from the top of the crater!

Yes, we did it!

Hawaii Fall 2010 - fun time

2010-10-11T04:56:00.000-07:00

Another trip, another set of memories is collected. We have visited Oahu again and had a great time. While still at the airport on our way back home, the kids asked when we are going to come back. That sums it all up.

Yummy shaved ice on a hot morning.

Us.

The obligatory sunset photo at Waikiki Beach.

Matilda's first golf lesson

2010-09-13T21:17:00.000-07:00

Matilda is now old enough to hold the plastic golf club that Lukas used to swing years back. So on Sunday afternoon we took her to the driving ranch to see what she's got.

Well, since it was her first time, she didn't really understand that when you hit the ball, you just let it go. She picked up every ball that she hit and put it back in her basket. Luckily the ball only went 1 or 2 feet away.

She did not want to pee in the hole (what an improvement to her brother at this age) nor did she throw a fit when we were leaving. So overall it was a great experience for everyone.

BTW, big brother is improving with every swing.

Matilda

2010-09-11T17:11:00.000-07:00

Since summer is almost over, here are few summer shots of our sunshine Matilda. No comments are necessary, she speaks on every picture for herself.

Matilda's first day of preschool

2010-08-31T14:05:00.000-07:00

And here we go again. Another school start for us. Today it was Matilda's turn. She is now ready for preschool, the same one that Lukas started at. Her teacher, Mrs. Margarita, was there this morning to welcome her. She ate her breakfast, had a blast playing outside with the other children and did some serious art work. She even tried a tuna sandwich for lunch. And all of that in 3.5 hours. Now Tuesdays and Thursdays are school days for her.

Here she is marching to school this morning.

First day of Kindergarten

2010-08-30T15:13:00.000-07:00

It's official. Lukas is a big boy now. Today was his first day of Kindergarten. This morning he was curious and nervous but not worried or scared. He waved good bye to us as we had to leave the classroom right after we dropped him off and he came out happy and calm.

He has to wear a school uniform and since I prepared him for that already, he didn't even ask for his usual jeans/character t-shirt school outfit.

Here is Lukas with little sister who asked the whole morning when we can go and pick up big brother.

We like to bike!

2010-08-25T05:08:00.000-07:00

Now that Lukas mastered the biking on his own, we purchased a bike seat for Matilda. She loves to sit in the back and let Daddy ride her around.

No park is safe anymore, no distance far enough.

Lukas driving on his own. It took him 10 minutes to get the confidence to balance and drive on his own. Now he is doing stunts already.

Sunday afternoon

2010-08-23T05:47:00.000-07:00

Matilda playing outside in the afternoon sun.

No stage fright

2010-08-12T05:13:00.000-07:00

At our recent Great America visit we watched Matilda's favorite show with Charlie Brown. She even participated on the stage, playing a music instrument.

Hug!

A day at the beach

2010-08-10T04:59:00.000-07:00

My favorite place to be is the beach. Any beach, anywhere. Last weekend we went to the Santa Cruz beach, right behind the Boardwalk. It's a OK beach but we still had a good time. The kids even dipped into the ice cold water.

My handsome husband.

We got the memo to dress in green.

Kids.

Mommy, I can swim!

2010-08-08T16:56:00.000-07:00

The summer of firsts continues. As I mentioned in the beginning of this week, Lukas is taking swim lessons and over the weekend he showed his mad skills to Patrick.

He is doing pretty good, if you ask me.

Little fish little fish

2010-08-02T15:37:00.001-07:00

Today Lukas had his first swim lesson ever. He loves the water and to hang out in the pool for hours but he still needs the floaters for assurance. So today he got into the water with the instructor and I think in few days he will be ready to move around on his own without floaters.

So many firsts this summer. Wonderful.

Another milestone reached. No more 4 wheels!

2010-07-22T05:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, when Patrick came back home from work, we had a big surprise for him. Lukas just mastered to drive the 2 wheel bike! Oh, how proud I am of him. He overcame the fear of falling and he let me remove the extra wheels. I always knew he can do it but he wasn't so sure. After only few rides with me holding his seat, he gained confidence and went off.

Now he is speeding down the street like he has done this for years.

My boy is growing up.

Our little Kai-Lan

2010-07-21T06:48:00.000-07:00

Matilda has discovered her love for Kai-Lan. She loves to read the books and she even picks up few Chinese words. Here she is in her cute outfit, given to her by Grandma who recently went on a China trip.

Say awwww!

Street artists

2010-07-18T21:42:00.000-07:00

On the weekends, time stands still and we play from morning til night. This morning, while Patrick was tending to the grass, we made art outside the garage.

Here is Matilda's project (with some help from me):

Here is Lukas, with his own creation.

6 years ago!

2010-07-10T14:50:00.001-07:00

Honeymoon to Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai and Phuket in Thailand. I want to go back!

Fun wedding in Las Vegas!

Traditional ceremony at Patrick's parents house.

Happy Anniversary!

2010-07-10T04:54:00.000-07:00

Love you now and forever.

Another milestone reached

2010-06-30T08:19:00.000-07:00

As Matilda is nearing her 2.5 years old anniversary in few days, she has also reached another milestone. She is fully potty trained and wears her Kai-Lan undies with big pride. Where did the time go? When did she start talking in full sentences? When did she start to bossy her brother around? When did she become this sweet person we can't get enough of?

Partners in crime:

I'm cute like that

2010-06-28T05:54:00.000-07:00

She put the whole outfit together by herself.

Hello sunshine!

Flying high!

The rising Kungfu Star

2010-06-22T06:22:00.000-07:00

Lukas' new interest is Kungfu. I have found a summer camp with some kungfu teaching, Chinese language and arts/crafts and so this week Lukas is attending that camp. He loved the first day and was excited to go back next day.

New moves.

Our summer so far

2010-06-21T14:16:00.000-07:00

As you might have noticed, I haven't posted any photo since Lukas' graduation two weeks ago. Since he is off school, we have been doing lots of fun trips and excursions. We have visited the San Jose Children's Discovery Museum twice, went to the beach and picked strawberries at an organic farm in Watsonville, went to the Oakland Zoo and newly remodeled Happy Hollow Park in San Jose. Of course we have season passes for Great America and have just met Snoopy and his gang yesterday. Time is flying by so quickly and we love the summer.

What are your plans for this summer?

Here are Lukas and Matilda at Auntie Pauline's recent company festival.

Lukas' kindergarten graduation

2010-06-07T09:27:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, Lukas' Kindergarten class graduated. After singing many songs to us parents and other guests, each child received their diploma and a special award. Lukas special award was "Most Atlethic" and the teacher highlighted his great spirit and energy. He made his daddy proud with this award, that's for sure.

The children also performed a play and Lukas was farmer #3 with few lines to say. He did very well, spoke loud and clear. What an improvement to his social skills after being shy and softspoken few years back. Maybe there is an acting future in the stars. :)

Overall it was a great evening and it will be sad to not see the other children anymore. Many of them are moving on to 1st grade in different schools.

At the beach

2010-06-03T10:59:00.000-07:00

Finally, the sun came back and the summer started. Of course, that made us pack up and go to the beach right away. The kids love to play in the sand, drift through the hours without an agenda, just enjoying themselves.

Here is Patrick showing off his Hulk skills and making the boys scream.

We were even lucky enough to see a bunch of dolphins gliding through the water. Amazing how graceful and wonderful they are.

Matilda and the scooter

2010-06-01T14:06:00.000-07:00

Yes, she is fierce. Yes, she is fearless. And she can go on her scooter like big brother can.

Last soccer game for this season

2010-05-22T16:51:00.000-07:00

Today was the last game of the spring soccer season. The Golden Dragons didn't win or lose, this league didn't county any goals. Not sure if I like this.

Matilda is of course Lukas' most trusted audience.

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T08:42:00.000-07:00

And off they go!

2010-05-07T09:14:00.000-07:00

Lukas and Matilda going for a ride.

Learning math

2010-05-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

These days, Lukas is learning how to substract. The additions he mastered well and he is moving now to the more challenging substractions.

Ms. Ilma, his teacher, has all these little methods how to make it easier for them to get the idea and it works very well. Hand on the head, hand behind the back, whatever it takes to make them understand. Thank you Ms. Ilma for being patient and resourceful!

Have a nice weekend!

2010-04-30T20:35:00.000-07:00

Trip to Cancun

2010-04-29T09:17:00.000-07:00

What a great trip it was! Our one week visit to Cancun last week has given us time to relax and spend time together. The kids mastered all the flights with patience and lots of sleeping.

Here is the view from our balcony that we woke up to every morning. The ocean was warm and pleasant to swim in but with strong current at times.

We took public transportation to get around in Cancun since the taxis are expensive and the bus stop are convieniently located on the main street, just short walking distance from the hotel or in town. This was our biggest adventure on this trip and we loved the open windows, crazy driving style and rap music played by the drivers.

Of course, I found another pair of sunglasses for Matilda at our local Target shortly before the trip so she was covered and ready to pose.

On our daily walks, we have seen many iguanas hanging around the hotel. Very much to Lukas' disliking. He is terrified of them. Matilda not so much, she was waving to all of them.

Family portrait

2010-04-15T09:07:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful drawing of our family by Lukas. Notice the exact hair color of each family member. :)

Test test :)

2010-04-11T18:01:00.000-07:00

I like Picasa and it looks like you can do lots more with it then just viewing photos. Here is my first test of a collage. Looks good to me.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T12:52:00.000-07:00

A trail of eggs in the hallway have led to many speculations this morning. Lukas was worried that maybe an Easter basket has exploded. Or the bunny. But arriving at the kitchen table, he quickly noticed that his and Matilda's baskets were OK and no harm was done. Rather Bunny/Mommy was trying to be funny by placing eggs all over the hallway middle of the night. Oh well.

We hope you are having a nice Easter Sunday!

No words needed!

2010-03-30T23:31:00.000-07:00

Cool party and the health check up

2010-03-29T09:06:00.000-07:00

So last Saturday we celebrated Lukas birthday in style. Lukas friends from kindergarten, family friends and family were invited to Auntie Pauline's poolhouse and even Spongebob showed up for a game or two.

As you can see, the picture perfect smile was guaranteed when we opened all the gifts. Star Wars Lego, Atlantis Lego, Ben10 Lego and the always cool Ironman items, clothing, games and many other gifts are now making our small house even smaller. :)

Today we had the 5-year-old-checkup and boy, was Lukas anxious to get it over with. 4 shots, 1 TB skin test and blood drawing later he proclaimed that he doesn't love me anymore, but I will take that any day knowing that he will stay healthy and happy for the rest of his life.

We love that boy to pieces.

Happy 5th birthday Lukas!

2010-03-26T15:32:00.000-07:00

Another year has passed, another birthday for Lukas. Officially, he is due at 7:31 PM but of course, we are celebrating since this morning.

Lukas is patient, thoughtful, smart and a good mensch. He has his moments but those are now more predictable and happen not too often. He loves and fights with Matilda, like they all do. But he cares for her and always makes sure she gets a kiss and a hug, even if she doesn't want it.

We celebrated this afternoon with his kindergarten friends and tomorrow we have a big party with friends and family. Can't wait to see his face when he enters the poolhouse decorated with Spongebob stuff. I hope he will have lots of fun. Photos will follow next week.

Happy birthday my dearest Lukas. I love you very much.

First field trip

2010-03-24T17:51:00.000-07:00

Today Lukas and his kindergarten friends went on their first field trip. To a Mexican restaurant. :) Even though the restaurant is right around the corner from school, the trip involved taking a van which was very exciting.

All kids behaved beautifully and they were rewarded with a stamp in their "passports" and crayons and a booklet to draw in.

This was a great first field trip! Thank you Ms. Ilma. :)

Another soccer season started

2010-03-22T09:40:00.000-07:00

Last week Lukas soccer practice started again. Unfortunately this league is not as competitive as the last one we were with, so at the Saturday game there was no goalie and no counting of points. Weird because how do we know who will win the trophy but let's see where this leads us.

The kids had fun, and that is what matters (I guess). Go Golden Dragons!

Signed by a competitive mom. ;)

Matilda is the best audience ever!

Lukas in his new uniform.

First days of sun!

2010-03-22T09:26:00.000-07:00

Finally, last week the sun came back and we all needed to get out and move and breath the fresh and warm air. Where else to go then to Lake Elizabeth in Fremont where a big playground was awaiting us and hours of play were guaranteed. Did we have lots of fun!

Spring, make sure you stay with us now.

yes?

2010-03-11T03:36:00.000-08:00

First art class

2010-03-10T03:33:00.000-08:00

Since Matilda doesn't attend any school yet, I signed her up for singing and art class. So on two mornings, she is letting her free spirit dance and on another morning she can get messy as much as she wants. Here is her very first painting, hanging now on our fridge.

Spring

2010-03-09T03:31:00.000-08:00

Here is Lukas doing his homework last week. The assignment was to draw something that reminds him of spring. Playground and sun!

Monkey see, monkey do

2010-03-08T03:29:00.000-08:00

No other comment needed. :)

Kindergarten registration - done

2010-03-01T10:56:00.001-08:00

Where did the time go? Just this morning I stood in line in front of Lukas' future kindergarten and filled out the paperwork. This is the beginning of his academical years and I can't believe it's almost here already.

My boy is growing up.

Yoga for kids

2010-02-24T03:17:00.000-08:00

Thank you Wii for introducing my children to yoga. I don't think that I will ever attend a yoga class so this is the closest they will get to it. Lukas is totally into it (as reported last year already) and now Matilda starts too.

Too cute watching those two stretching and making funny figures.

I hate playdough!

2010-02-23T15:11:00.000-08:00

Judging from the photo below, you wouldn't think that I have a very bad relationship with playdough. I think it is messy and sticky and not really kid and kitchen floor friendly. The kids are allowed to playdough on the kitchen floor only and on the provided mat. But there is always some of it stuck to their socks, to their clothing and the floor. Yak to whomever invented that stuff.

But hey, anything for the kids...

Good read(s)

2010-02-17T09:34:00.000-08:00

Zak is a thirtysomething and stuck in his life. Torn between two ladies and with an unhappy childhood lingering in his head and soul, he might be also dead sick. That is all what I will reveal about this great book that I highly recommend to read: "Everything changes" by Jonathan Tropper.

The first book that I read from Tropper was "This is where I leave you". Another messed up guy in search for healing and happiness.

I got both books at our local library. Don't you love the library?

Pear Custard Tart

2010-02-15T09:26:00.001-08:00

Hm hm hm hm hm hm. I found the recipe for this pear custard tart in one of Martha Stewart's magazines and it was an instant hit. It is super easy and fast to make (I promise, super easy) and it tastes super yummy. The pears go very well with the custard together.

If you would like the recipe, ping me.

Chinese New Year celebration

2010-02-14T23:57:00.000-08:00

Today we celebrated Chinese New Year. Gong Hei Fat Choi to all of you!!

We have taken Lukas to a temple before but Matilda hasn't been yet so this morning we have visited the Budhist Temple in Milpitas and in the afternoon a temple in San Jose.

The temple is San Jose was very busy this afternoon and the air was heavy with burning scent and firecracker noise. Lukas was intrigued by the scents and asked if he can lit one too. Auntie Pauline took him then and showed him around.

Our Valentine's Day dinner ist planned for next week. Let's hope it doesn't fall off the table completely. ;)

Orla Kiely - another good buy

2010-02-07T14:47:00.000-08:00

By now you know that I love Orla Kiely stuff. Purses, wallets, reusable bags and mugs. Actually, I own few more items but I will not list them right here because Patrick is starting to get suspicious.

Anyway, now I am a proud owner of a beautiful as well as helpful pouch made out of Orla Kiely fabric. Yay for this find at Sugar Cane on Etsy!

The package arrived from the U.K. wrapped in cute paper and tied with a red ribbon. And the smallest little envelope revealed tiny stickers. Can it get any better?

First time bowling

2010-02-03T03:39:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, we were invited to celebrate Evan's 5th birthday at a bowling alley. First of all, happy birthday dear Evan.

It was the first time that we went bowling with the kids. Lukas has played bowling on the Wii before but you can not compare that to the real experience. He did pretty good for a beginner and when we were leaving he said "I want to come back and play again.".

Since I love bowling too, we can play together soon.

Kung Fu Fighter

2010-02-01T06:37:00.000-08:00

Lukas hasn't had a formal introduction to karate or kung fu yet but he is practicing on our sofa already. Here is the flying mantis (or whatever you want to call it).

Sweetest Child

2010-01-28T05:07:00.000-08:00

I can't stop taking photos of our sweet Matilda. Here are just few from the Christmas season that I love. She is always so happy and cheerful and just great to have around. I work in the mornings at home and she is keeping me good and quiet company.

brave

2010-01-27T05:08:00.000-08:00

Another proof that we have a fearless little girl. The dinosaur was big and scary but she liked to play with him. You go girl!

Winter Gala at Kindergarten

2010-01-26T10:58:00.000-08:00

Last Friday Lukas' kindergarten hosted a winter gala. The children were well prepared by Ms. Ilma, their teacher, and sang songs for us parents. Lukas participated beautifuly which is usually not the case. He even wore the costume and sang all the songs.

Belated surprise!

2010-01-20T21:34:00.000-08:00

Without any expectation I opened the mailbox yesterday and look what I found: a late birthday present from Joanna, my best friend forever ever. We know each other for over 25 years. We met in high school and became friends right away. After high school, our ways parted and through all these years, we never lived in the same city, for some years not even in the same country. But we kept being best friends through all of it.

Our friendship is true and real, honest and comfortable. We went through hard times and we learned from our mistakes. I consider Joanna my sister that I never had.

The gift is a beautiful bracelet with Lukas and Matilda's names on it as well as E ~heart~ P. I will wear it always from now on.

Vielen Dank liebstes Asku. Ich liebe Dich auch.

Greeting from the Farmers Market

2010-01-18T05:02:00.000-08:00

We love to visit the local Farmer's Market in Milpitas. The popcorn, fresh made and sprinkeled with sugar, is the main attraction for the kids. I am happy to buy produce from local farmers and stroll around. Fun fun.

Matilda's 2nd birthday celebration!

2010-01-17T10:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we finally celebrated Matilda's 2nd birthday in Hello Kitty style. Family and friends came over to hang out and have a good time with Matilda. We had lots of kids to play with and lots of grown ups to talk to. It was a great party.

Matilda didn't nap because of all the excitment so last night she slept 13 hours straight. Partying is exhausting.

She received lots of cool toys and even cooler clothing. Spring can start now!

Family photo.

Yummy Hello Kitty cake.

Living by Martha Stewart

2010-01-11T13:58:00.001-08:00

My Christmas gift from my dear friend Jasmine arrived! Thank you so much!

Living by Martha Stewart will now monthly entertain me, feed me with new cooking ideas and just give me few minutes to myself amidst chores and other jobs I have. No, it's not that bad but reading a book or a magazine is a luxury these days.

Expect great things to come! ;)

Happy Birthday to Matilda!

2010-01-09T10:04:00.000-08:00

Today is Matilda's second birthday! Hurray! We kissed and hugged her a lot after she woke up late and now we are playing with the instruments that she received as a birthday gift.

She is a beautiful, happy and lovely child. She is always happy, friendly and mostly quiet. She loves to play with Lukas, she follows him everywhere he goes. But she is no push-over and will fight for her own right when it's necessary. She started potty training and is doing very well. She is a good sleeper and eater. She likes to go shopping with me where she patiently sits in the cart and points out all the items in the store she likes.

We love you very much, sweet little girl!!!

cold Friday afternoon

2010-01-08T15:58:00.000-08:00

When we got back home from school today, it was rainy and windy outside. So we put Matilda down for a nap and Lukas and I enjoyed a bowl of popcorn and watching Spongebob.

Don't you love a lazy Friday afternoon?

big imagination

2010-01-03T17:01:00.000-08:00

Lukas loves Lego. I mentioned that in an earlier post. Well, here is his newest creation. I think it's super cool. Can you guess what those things are? A hint: they live under the water in a pineapple house. :)

"Julie & Julia" Movie

2009-12-30T12:18:00.000-08:00

The other day, Patrick and I finally managed to watch "Julie & Julia" movie. Oh, what a nice movie that was! Even Patrick enjoyed it, I guess because of all the good cooking. I also liked how the scenes from the past and today were flowing into each other.

Now I am inspired to cook well again! Maybe I should get the Julia Child cook book but not sure if I am really a French cook. I will look through my other cook books to find some good recipes.

Bon Appetit!

Our Christmas morning to remember

2009-12-28T20:32:00.000-08:00

Too bad Christmas is over. I love this time of the year and especially the Christmas morning when we open the presents and spend most of the day assembling Lego toys, playing with and trying on whatever Santa has left for us. This year was even more special since Matilda is now old enough to open her own presents.

Santa was very generous with us, again. Thank you and we can't wait for next year! ;)

Rainy day in Monterey

2009-12-28T17:34:00.000-08:00

Our annual trip to the beach during the Christmas holiday was cut short today because of the wind and rain that came down on us. But the visit to the Aquarium made it all worth driving one hour in the car with two impatient children.

We love to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium and check on the penguins, the otters and sharks. And play with the water, watch out on the ocean and just hang out. Lovely day.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T11:03:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas celebration!

From our family to yours, bestest wishes!

Huge Surprise!

2009-12-21T14:58:00.000-08:00

I have to share with you the biggest surprise I have ever gotten for my birthday. I will turn 40 in 3 days and wasn't really sure if I should celebrate this round birthday this year. Agonizing and thinking back and forth I invited friends for a celebration to later cancel it after all.

So last night Patrick said let's go out. We packed up Matilda (Lukas was with his cousin for the afternoon) and we went to King Crab, a Chinese restaurant here in Milpitas.

After we found parking while crossing the street I said to Patrick that I feel guilty to go to the restaurant without Lukas because he usually likes their food so much. But since he was with Kyle and was supposed to have pizza, I thought it's all good.

When we walked to the restaurant, I was still oblivious. After we walked in, I saw Britta, my friend, sitting in the back of the restaurant. My first thought was "hm, what a coincidence that she is here tonight too!". And then I saw them all! The whole family and my friends Britta and Evelyn were gathered at two tables to celebrate my 40th birthday with me! What a surprise! Tears came to my eyes and I felt so overwhelmed but so happy.

Then we had delicious dinner. I will never forget that evening, the surprise and my heartbeat.

Thank you all for loving me. I love you all back!

Advents-Calendar

2009-12-14T08:46:00.000-08:00

It has been always a tradition at my house to receive an Advents-Calendar on December 1. The little chocolates inside the calendar have made each day of waiting for Christmas sweeter.

Of course I couldn't resist to give Lukas and Matilda their own calendar this year. Now we added opening one door from the calendar to the morning's routine.

Lukas is even opening his calendar every other day so that he has two chocolates at once.

So do you have a calendar like that?! :)

Cold

2009-12-10T09:55:00.000-08:00

The last few days have been unusual cold here in the Bay Area. Or maybe we just forgot - after months of warmth and sun - that December is still a winter month. So to avoid getting sick and being cold, we wear lots of warm clothes and live with it.

Here is Matilda all bundled up while going shopping with me.

The Christmas Tree is up!

2009-12-07T10:04:00.001-08:00

Finally, on Saturday we got our Christmas tree! I couldn't wait to get one and decorate it, and smell it, and enjoy it. This is the most beautiful tree we have ever had. Not only it is perfect size, but it's also well grown, even and thick.

So late Saturday afternoon the kids and us started to go through the Christmas boxes, took out all the ornaments and hang them on the tree. Lukas was a great decorater, he hang most of the decorations on the bottom of the tree.

The damage was minimal. Only two glass balls broke due to unsensitive care by Lukas and Matilda but that's ok.

Here is our pride and joy for this holiday season:

Going to school in PJ's

2009-12-01T22:00:00.000-08:00

Only in America you have a PJ day in school. After the kids finished their work, they sat on their blankets, had popcorn and watched a movie. This was a price for all the reading coupons the kids turned in.

Lukas going to school in his PJ's.

Mommy's helper

2009-11-30T12:19:00.001-08:00

You can count on Lukas. Messing up the living room, leaving his Lego's all over the house and... helping me feeding Matilda. Whenever he does that, Matilda will finish all the food in the bowl. She is a good eater anyway but with Lukas' help, she will finish it all. Good brother he is.

Thankful

2009-11-26T09:05:00.000-08:00

Every day I am thankful for having a family, a home, living in a safe country, having freedom and peace. Today is no different but since it is Thanksgiving, I am taking this opportunity to thank all of you for being my friend and wishing you a wonderful day.

From my family to yours:

Orange Thunder - 2nd place in U6 division

2009-11-22T17:06:00.001-08:00

We are #2 in the U6 division of the Milpitas Youth Soccer, yay!! Our team, Orange Thunder, won a game this morning and qualified for the final. This afternoon we lost 0:1 but that still made us #2.

The team celebration will be at ChuckECheese's in Fremont.

Here is Lukas with his trophy.

Coaches Michael and Stephen and the team celebrating!

New addition to our kitchen

2009-11-19T08:50:00.000-08:00

After years of waiting and searching and searching and waiting, I finally found the perfect buffet for my kitchen! And it came just from across the street, from our neighbor, who is moving out and had a garage sale few weeks ago.

Patrick helped sanding it down and staining it so that it goes color wise well with my kitchen table that I love. We worked two days on it but it was worth every hour.

The buffet is made out of real wood and was not painted or stained before. This is how it looked before we started working on it.

I had not one helper, but two! Lukas in action.

And here is the final result. Doesn't it look awesome and perfect for our kitchen?!

Good read

2009-11-17T07:43:00.000-08:00

Recently I have discovered Lisa See's books at our local library. It was pure coincidence that I grabbed her book from the bookshelf that was close to the check out station. It's hard to browse through the aisles and shelves with 2 kids in tow so I am lucky when I catch something for myself while leaving the library.

The first book I read from Lisa See was "Shanghai Girls". I am intrigued by the Chinese and Asian culture for many years. Maybe it is because I love and am married to a Chinese-American man or maybe it is because I love the Asian art, fragile and beautiful, delicate and minimalistic, full of well handcrafted items, with its attention to detail even in smallest items.

I will not give away the plot but I highly recommend this book if you look for a well written and fascinating story that describes the lives of women in the beginning of this century in a country that seems to live in the century before ours.

Lego-ist

2009-11-16T07:03:00.000-08:00

Lukas loves to play with Lego. Through the years he got lots of Lego sets from the Spongebob, Star Wars and City collection. He eagerly puts the Lego together after we take it ouf of the box but few days later, after playing with the toys in a boyish way and having a sister that likes to touch the toys too, pieces start to fall apart and the brand new truck has now only wheels left or Spongebob's rocket ship wasn't as sturdy as Lukas thought after letting it fly through the air.

But this is a good thing that the toys eventually fall in many pieces because then the real fun starts. Lukas is a master in building cities, space shuttles, airplanes and helicopters, all made from his fantasy and without following any directions. His imagination is endless when it comes to explain what he has built. To me it might look like few little guys standing around, but to him is a construction site with many different elements that he patiently points out to me.

My favorite thing to do is sorting the Lego but it's not really very beneficial. After few days, everything lands back in few boxes.

Here is us and Lukas awesome space station with stormtroopers storming the base. Or something like that.

Brother & Sister

2009-11-13T15:56:00.000-08:00

Our kids. Our pride and joy. Our king and our princess. Our sensitive but head strong children.
They are hard to get together in one photograph but I got lucky this week.

2002 Merlot

2009-11-12T14:13:00.000-08:00

After years of abstinence, we finally drank some wine, at home, on the sofa, just the two of us. Few days ago I felt that the time has come that Patrick and I start to enjoy the quiet evenings even more.

My all time favorite wine is from the winery Chateau Julien in Carmel Valley. When I was working with the Plaza Hotel in Monterey, we ordered this wine for all our functions and it became my favorite since then. That's like 7 years ago. I was able to keep few bottles because of the pregnancies but now the time has come.

So last night, we enjoyed this smooth, fruity, sweet-but-not-sweet wine to the last drip. Can't wait for tonight to finish the bottle.

Yummy

2009-11-11T08:48:00.001-08:00

It's only 9 am in the morning but I already think about the dessert that is still in our fridge. Waiting for me to be eaten. To be enjoyed.

Those chewy balls filled with a sesame paste and rolled in peanuts are so delicious, I can't even explain. Whenever we go the Mayflower restaurant in Milpitas to eat dimsum, I already wait for the dessert before all other dishes arrive. That's how good they are.

Mary Jane's

2009-11-10T10:23:00.000-08:00

What would I do without this wonderful store where you can find any item you want at a resonable price? It's called... Target! I bet all of you know that place and love it - like me.

Anyway, how about those cute Mary Jane's that I found for Matilda? I wear those soft socky thingis for years already and now Matilda has a pair too.

She is still no keen on the idea to wear them in the house but I know that she soon will appreciate them.

Another milestone

2009-11-09T11:21:00.000-08:00

Time flies fast. I can feel it watching Lukas and Matilda grow up. Just as of yesterday our car is one car seat lighter and we welcomed the booster seat for Lukas that he has wanted for some time now.

He loves to strap himself in and unstrap and enjoys the freedom around his body. I only hope that the booster seat is safe.

Matilda has already tried out the booster seat but she has few more years to go.

Trick or treating - fun night!

2009-11-01T08:12:00.001-08:00

Trick or treating last night was fun! Matilda discovered very quickly how to get the candy and she was not scared to walk up to people and show her bucket.

Kyle and Lukas.

Lukas trying out the lightsaber on sister.

Nice pose Darth Vader.

Baby Claire - ladybug, Lukas - Darth Vader, Matilda - Bumblebee, Kyle - Scream, Diane - vampire, Baby Lawrence - lion (from left to right).

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T16:15:00.000-07:00

Have a fun Halloween, everyone! Lukas is going as Darth Vader (thus the carved pumpkin) and I hope I can get Matilda into the bumblebee costume. Photos to follow.

Go Yankees!

2009-10-27T15:34:00.000-07:00

Not only I am teaching my daughter how to brush her teeth correctly, I am also teaching her which baseball team is the best team ever! So here is us showing off our matching hats (and the brushing teeth skill).

Go Yankees!!

Random cuteness

2009-10-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

I think the photos don't require much comments. She is just a sugar sweet little girl.

Matilda right after she woke up.

Matilda learned how to pose now.

At Lukas' school, she loves to sit in the mini chairs. Only for that reason, I will send her to preschool next January. :)

Practice practice practice

2009-10-27T15:12:00.000-07:00

The summer is over but that doesn't mean that we have to sit inside and watch Spongebob all day long. Just for the record, nothing against Spongebob, but that giggle of his can be exhausting.

So last Saturday Patrick and Lukas went to the driving range to finally practice with the driver that we got Lukas a long time ago.

It looks like he is ready for it now and he had lots of fun using it.

I still wonder how Tiger Woods could do it all when he was 2 1/2 years old. Mind blowing.

Pumpkin Patch at Lemos Farm

2009-10-24T14:40:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we decided to visit the Lemos Farm Pumpkin Patch in Half Moon Bay before the month of October is over and the pumpkins will disappear again. We met Cel and Evan and Jenae there and had a lovely morning riding the choo-choo-train, looking at pumpkins and having a picnic and pizza.

Here the three of us, having fun on the wooden horse.

Lukas would make a handsome cowboy, I think.

Spiders, spiders everywhere!

Matilda pretty in orange.

The goats were quite interesting to watch from far away.

Matilda, thinking about this and that.

Hawaii Report Part 2

2009-10-22T10:36:00.001-07:00

Here are few more photos of us having fun.

With daddy.

At Dole Plantation, being silly after the train ride.

Of course they had to touch the water...

Hawaii Report Part 1

2009-10-22T10:29:00.000-07:00

Here are few photos from our trip.

Right after our arrival on Oahu, Matilda is playing in sand.

Lukas and Matilda playing in the suitcase.

Lukas wanted to try out to be covered all in sand.

Kayaking with daddy.

What else to do then playing in sand.

Matilda's new haircut

2009-10-20T12:18:00.000-07:00

Right before the trip to Hawaii, I decided that Matilda should get a new haircut. That long babish hair was just not working. So with one snip, she has now a beautiful bob haircut.

We are back!

2009-10-18T14:43:00.001-07:00

Our last trip for the summer 2009 is finally over. We got back home last night, with sand in our hair and sweet memories of the warm ocean and sunny days in Hawaii. Lukas didn't want to leave the beach that we went to before our flight back home. It was that nice.

I will post few more photos soon. Here is one of Matilda in her beautiful Hawaiian dress that Auntie Pauline gave to her.

The photo was taken by Uncle Oai who made her smile every time he pointed the camera at her. Go figure.

Grocery basket

2009-10-08T09:50:00.000-07:00

I brought this nice basket back from Germany for my grocery shopping. The kids love that basket to play in it.

Matilda likes to hide in it.

First love letter

2009-10-07T23:04:00.001-07:00

You probably think now that I will share some odd story about my first love letter that I wrote or received like 30 years ago. But no.

This is about Lukas. A girl at his kindergarten has taken his heart by storm. Since few days, the only person he talks about is Mia, his friend from school. He lets everything fall when she walks in, he draws pictures for her and tonight he prepared a card with envelope for her. Awwwww, so cute.

So yesterday when I picked him up, I wanted to meet that special lady of his. She is cute, I have to say.

He does talk about the other boys in class but when he talks about Mia, he smiles all over his face.

We can't help but tease him about her but he takes it with a smirk on his face.

Here is his first love letter to Mia:

The last days of summer

2009-10-02T18:11:00.000-07:00

Weather wise it for sure doesn't feel like fall but these are the last good days where we can enjoy the warmth of the sun, long trips to the Zoo in shorts and sandals. Very soon the cold will arrive and rob us of the comfort of the sun. Oh well, nothing we can do about, so I stop complaining.

So today we went to the Oakland Zoo, made sure all our animal friends are still there, met the baboons at their new location and had a picnic while watching other kids play and later the giraffes. Or maybe they were watching us, not sure.

We couldn't miss the obligatory train ride around the Zoo which is always a nice ending to the fun.

Here is us (I was taking the picture so you see rather the kids), enjoying the ride.

Lukaism

2009-09-30T13:40:00.001-07:00

"Mommy, what are we eating for dinner tonight." I couldn't even reply fast enough when he said "But no rice, Mommy. We ate rice three times already (which means three nights in row). Rice is boring in my mouth." - Boy, you are half Chinese, rice flows through your vains! :)

I asked Lukas to look for a Lego toy that he put somewhere away and we can't find it. He says "Mommy, I am a little bit good looker." I think he wanted to say he can search pretty well. Few minutes later he came with the toy in his hand and a confident look in his face.

Here are munchkins doing what they do best: humbug.

Getting organized – Photos

2009-09-28T12:56:00.001-07:00

Not sure if anyone will find this helpful, but I hear from so many people that they have a hard time to stay organized with their photos, so I thought I will share how I do it.

I take hundreds of photos of my children, family and friend gatherings and of buildings, shades, flowers and whatever else interests my eye. My favorite photos I post on my blog http://fragmentsbyedith.blogspot.com/ and some of the photos of my children I post on this blog. Many more I print and file in folders, for each child separately. I know my folder collection is growing rapidly but I just can’t not print the photos. How I stay organized with the printed photos is another post. :)

Back to the thousands of photos that we have on our computers. First, after uploading the photos from the camera to the computer, I file the photos in one folder and put a date on it and write few keywords of what is in this folder (example Sept 17 Matilda hair clip Bambi dress Lukas soccer outfit playing outside). I know this title might not make any sense to you but it does to me.

Secondly, I file this new photo folder in a monthly folder on my computer. So under September 2009. This folder is then filed into a year folder which I call Photos 2009. You can call it whatever you like but important is to have the year specified.

So here is how it looks on my computer:

1) C: (or any drive you want to use - I actually have an external drive that I save my photos on)
2) Photos 2009
3) - January 2009 - Jan 1 New Year celebration family park
- February 2009 – bday party Evan
And so on

This is the easiest and quickest way to find your photos on the computer. Of course, there are many other ways of organizing your stuff but I find this the most efficient and most easy for me.

Most of us have already a bunch of photos on the computer that are not filed and just linger on the desktop or in some obscure MyPhotos folder on the PC. To start with the organizing, just make the folders as per above and start moving the photos as you have time to do so. I know it is time consuming, but when you have it organized, you will be happy to have done it.

Now, after each upload, file your photos right into the correct folder, and voila, your life has one less problem.

If you need more help, email me and I will be happy to give you more hints or help.

Kindergarten

2009-09-24T11:36:00.000-07:00

Since 2 weeks, Lukas is attending the Kindergarten class in his preschool. He was too old for one more year of preschool with his favorite teacher Ms. Juana so we moved him to the Kindergarten class. Well, it comes with a big price and that is homework. Every day now he gets a folder filled with homework (ok, stop worrying, it's 2-3 pages max) and he has to practice writing the letters that he learns that week (we are at D right now), do lots of coloring, cutting out and gluing.

When I asked him this week if he likes his new teacher and class mates, he happily said "yes". So let's hope he keeps up the good work and eagerness.