The Chronicles of Chen's Little Peanut

25 weeks then; 25 weeks now...WHOA, what a difference!

2011-06-07T11:12:00.000-07:00

25 weeks with Izzy

25 weeks with Peanut #2

OK, I am officially FREAKED OUT! I am soooo much bigger this time around. I finally got the courage to look at my old pics and this is what I found. My belly really has a mind of it's own this time. I look like I swallowed a watermelon WHOLE!

Izzy's Dancey Dance Party

2011-02-27T10:11:00.000-08:00

To my dancing QUEEN!

You had the time of your life at your Yo Gabba Gabba party! You got down and shook your little booty like nobody's business. I am glad you had so much fun, it made all the planning from overseas so worth it! Mommy also made t-shirts for all of us and goodie bags for your little friends in the Yo Gabba Gabba theme. You loved being Foofa!

Now to think of next year's theme party!

Love, Mom

Plex, Brobee, Foofa, Toodee and Muno

Happy 2nd Birthday, Izzy!

2011-02-24T10:11:00.000-08:00

Dear Izzy,

Another year has gone by way too fast. Mommy really wishes I can make time stand still. You are 2 years old today and I can still remember vividly the day you came into my life. Thank you for being you and for teaching me so many things about myself that I didn't know about. I love you and look forward to knowing you better more and more each day.

We celebrated your 2nd birthday at school today! We had pizza and cupcakes and you and your friends had a blast! I love to see that cheeky smile on your face...it makes me forget everything.

Happy Birthday, Izzy. I am so lucky to be your mommy.

Love, Mom

Confirmation at the Doctor's - 9 weeks

2011-02-18T10:10:00.000-08:00

I went to see Dr. Bob today for the confirmation of my pregnancy. Everything checked out great and I hope to have a happy and healthy 9 months ahead of me! Cannot wait to meet this little new being in September!

I am over the moon!

Izzy's BIG trip to Asia!

2011-01-29T10:06:00.000-08:00

Dear Izzy,

Our trip to Asia was such a fun one! You were a good girl throughout the trip. On the plane ride there, you were an angel...although a loud one. You sang the whole trip there. We took altogether 6 flights: Vancouver>Hong Kong>Singapore>Penang>Hong Kong>Vancouver. You can start collecting frequent flyer miles now!

You didn't eat a lot while in Asia, I guess it's because you were not too used to the food there. Although once we landed in Hong Kong, you ate. You love dim sum...

You had a great time with your Cho Cho, Lau Yi, and met Mommy's side of the extended family for Chinese New Year. Then when we went over to Penang, you had fun with your Ye Ye, Nai Nai, Gu Gu, Su Su, Uncle Audi and also met a lot of family.

When we got home, you were jet-legged for 8 long days. It's going to be a long while before we make another one of these big trips again!

Here are some photos of our trip. Enjoy!

Love, Mom

Happy 23 months birthday!

2011-01-24T02:03:00.001-08:00

Izzy,

You are 23 months today...although Mommy is not there to be with you, I am there in spirit. Miss you so much already!

Well, what did we do this month? A lot...a lot of packing and planning. When Mommy and Daddy come back from France, we will depart to Asia. Mommy has also been planning your birthday party...it will be fabulous! Can't wait.

Another month and you'll be 2!

Love, Mom

Mommy & Daddy Go to France

2011-01-21T01:31:00.000-08:00

Dear Izzy,

Mommy and Daddy are leaving for France today and Ah Ma will take care of you. We will miss you a lot! Daddy is going there to watch the Bocuse d'Or and in 2013, you will be there to cheer Daddy on! It will be a big day.

Be a good girl and Mommy promises to call you everyday. 5 days will pass really quickly and we will be reunited again.

Love you,
Mom

Little Miss Chatterbox

2011-01-18T01:31:00.000-08:00

Izzy,

From the time you open your eyes in the morning, till the time you shut them at night, you don't stop talking! You sure are a Little Miss Chatterbox...although half of the time Mommy can't really understand you, you definitely know what you are saying because you repeat the same thing over and over again if I get it wrong!

Here's a video of you chatting with Daddy over the phone...it's hilarious!

Love, Mom

Oops I did it again!

2011-01-13T10:08:00.000-08:00

I took a pregnancy test this morning and guess what?! BIG FAT POSITIVE!

Now I have to figure out how to tell Alex...

...I hope I won't feel sick throughout my trip to France and Asia...

BUT I am so happy because I wanted this soooo very much...both for me but more so for Izzy. After having Izzy, I can't believe how much I love this little being and my heart aches whenever I think about the day when Alex and I leave this earth. I don't ever want my baby to be alone. I know that she won't be because she will have lots of friends and relatives but I want her to have a sibling. I don't ever want her to feel loneliness, I want her to know a brother or a sister. I want her to have the same relationship that I have with my own sister, whom I have grown to love and respect. She is my best friend, my confident, the person whom I know who has my back. I want the same for Izzy.

Thank you God for this new miracle.

First Snow Experience!

2011-01-12T01:30:00.000-08:00

Izzy,

It's snowed last night! And Mommy couldn't wait to show you snow this morning...so early in the morning at 7am, we went out to Ah Ma's driveway and played in the snow. At first you didn't know what to think of it but after a couple of minutes, you "helped" shovel the snow! You loved it.

And in the afternoon, we went out to the backyard to build a snowman...it was so much fun! I'm glad you enjoyed your first snow experience.

Love, Mom

Snowfall....

Izzy's first time in the snow!

"Helping" with the shoveling

Izzy's first snowman!

22.5 months

2011-01-10T02:02:00.000-08:00

Izzy,

You are 22.5 months today. You are so busy and your little body just will not stop moving! You love going up and down Ah Ma's stairs, which are quite scary for Mommy. You are obsessed with it since we don't have stairs where we live. Ah Ma now has to shut the door that separates the living/dining room from the hallway...it keeps both you and the dogs out of trouble!

And you really really love singing...I wonder if you will become a singer one day!

Love, Mom

Izzy "playing" the drums and singing...

Izzy Gets her Hair Did

2011-01-08T01:28:00.000-08:00

Izzy,

Today you got your very first haircut! I think you did great by sitting still. You enjoyed sitting in the little car and your haircut turned out awesome! Here are some after shots:

Sparky's Kids Hair Salon

Good job sitting still

All done! Soooo pretty!

Bon Voyage!

2011-01-06T01:27:00.000-08:00

The day is here! Mommy is nervous...look at how much luggage Mommy has to maneuver at the airport by ourselves. Be a good girl and help out OK?

Love, Mom

All this PLUS a stroller, carseat, dog and not forgetting, a crazy Izzy. Lord have mercy!

Izzy at the airport

Izzy having yogurt on the plane...she was actually a super good girl!

Goodbye 2010, Hello 2011!

2011-01-01T12:58:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, Izzy!

This year was bittersweet for Mommy....most of the sweet stuff came from you, of course! Mommy hopes that 2011 will be a better year for us as a family as things change so fast.

Anyway, right now, we are busy preparing for our big trip to Asia. But before our trip to Asia, Mommy and you are flying to Vancouver to spend some time with Ah Ma, Ah Kong, and Godma. Then Ah Ma will be babysitting you for a week while Mommy and Daddy go to France.

When we get back from France, we will depart on our almost month-long trip to Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong! We are going to have a busy couple of months because when we get back, Mommy has to plan your birthday party and Izzy will be turning 2!

Wow, Mommy is already exhausted, thinking of all this traveling and planning. But it's going to be an exciting start to the new year.

Love, Mom

The CD changer is NOT a slot machine!

2010-12-29T10:23:00.000-08:00

Izzy,

Seriously now, why do you like to destroy stuff?! We were in the car and you were playing in the drivers seat when you found a quarter and slid it into the CD changer slot. Both Mommy and Daddy saw it just hovering there and gingerly tried to get it out...but once we had our fingers on the slot, we both saw the coin fall into the CD changer. URGHHHHH!!! And now it's broken.

Daddy had to take it back to the dealership to get it removed...and guess how many coins they found in there?! FIVE! This means that you've done it before! It cost us $150 to remove the coins and this $150 goes on your tab! Don't forget you once threw Mommy's brand new iPhone into the pool too...

Naughty, naughty girl.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T12:57:00.000-08:00

Merry 2nd Christmas, Izzy!

It's a quiet Christmas this year because we are celebrating in LA with Daddy. Last year, we celebrated with Ah Ma, Ah Kong and Godma. But Mommy thinks that we should do alternate years so Daddy gets a chance to spend Christmas with you too.

We had a great Christmas morning where we all sat by the Christmas tree and opened presents. Then we went off to Christmas morning mass.

Merry Christmas, Izzy...you were a good girl this year!

Love, Mom

Santa came and dropped off the presents the night before Christmas...

Christmas party at school

Happy 22 months birthday!

2010-12-24T12:56:00.000-08:00

Dear Izzy,

22 months have gone by just like that! Your vocabulary is definitely growing by the day and your comprehension is even better. You understand every SINGLE word Mommy and Daddy says so we really have to be careful about what we say around you.

You also enjoy repeating words, even if you can pronounce it properly, you'll repeat it with a similar inflection. You like to tell me about the parts of your body and you also sing a whole lot...a lot of your songs are very much in tune, I must add! Mommy's very proud of you.

Love, Mom

My 2 babies...

Christmas Shinanigans and Activities

2010-12-20T12:53:00.000-08:00

Dear Izzy,

The Christmas season is upon us! One of my favorite holidays...even more so now because I, as the matriarch, get to make new traditions for our little family. This year we are staying in LA since we went to Vancouver for Christmas last year. I think it's only fair that Daddy gets to spend Christmas with you every other year even though he's usually super busy.

Anyway, we started December putting up our tree. Well, Mommy and Daddy did because you are still too young to help out. But you really loved it when you saw the tree in the morning! We also had a mini family photoshoot. Mommy loves to do photoshoot once in a while because you grow up so fast and I want to capture you at all your stages in your life.

We also did a Christmas brunch with Auntie Janet and Uncle Jeff. There was so much food to eat but you only wanted to eat cupcakes! You really do have a sweet tooth. Mommy had a great idea on what to get Daddy for Christmas so we went to Color Me Mine and painted a HUGE coffee mug for Daddy. You painted it all by yourself and was so proud of your artwork! I think it came out very well.

There was a Christmas parade on the Venice canals and we went there as a family to watch it. What a great day! There were also a couple of Christmas playdates which we attended: Gingerbread house playdate and Christmas caroling day at the adult day care center. You had a blast at both of them!

Wow, it was a busy December and December is not even over yet. Christmas is only a few days away!

Love, Mom

Chen family Christmas tree

Mini photoshoot

Christmas brunch at the Four Seasons Hotel

Painting at Color Me Mine

Watching the Christmas parade on the Venice canals

Christmas parade

Building your gingerbread house

Musician in the making

2010-12-13T12:52:00.000-08:00

I love that you are so musically inclined...

Love, Mom

21.5 month

2010-12-10T19:17:00.000-08:00

Izzy, Izzy, Izzy...

You have started to make a lot of excuses to stall for time, especially before bedtime! You ask for milk, cheerios, your cat, this and that. WOW, Mommy and Daddy have to learn to stop giving into your demands and just put our foot down! Soooo sneaky...

You also know and have started calling people and your friends by their name. It's really cute to see you call your friends by their name and vice versa. You're totally a little person now!

Love, Mom

21 month Baby Wellness Checkup

2010-12-06T12:49:00.000-08:00

We went in for your 21 month Baby Wellness Checkup at Dr. Scott's office today. Your stats are:

21.8 lbs 6%tile
33 inches in height 55%tile
47.5 cm head circumference 62 %tile

Dr. Scott is happy with your weight gain but he also did say that he doesn't see you being on the heavy side. You definitely have a high metabolism! You did very well at your appointment today. You got 2 shots - your 2nd flu shot and the hepatitis A. You cried but only for a little while. I know, it doesn't get easier but it's for your own good!

The next time we see Dr. Scott will be when you turn 2!

Love, Mom

Reading a book while waiting for Dr. Scott

Ah Ma's birthday

2010-12-04T19:19:00.000-08:00

Dear Izzy,

It's Ah Mas's birthday today! So what do you do? You made her a card and choose a present from the store for her. How cute! We hope Ah Ma has a great birthday and we'll see her very soon!

Happy Birthday, Ah Ma!

Love, Mom

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T02:19:00.000-08:00

Our last Thanksgiving...

I am thankful for...

sleep deprivation - that means my baby has lungs of steel
the mess to clean after - that means my baby is curious and gets into everything
being by ourselves on holidays - that means that my husband has a job and supporting us and our lifestyle
a thousand and one phone calls - that means that even though we are by ourselves on holidays, we have friends and family who still think of us on these days

I am thankful for my wonderful family who have made my life whole! I love you all!

Happy 21 month birthday!

2010-11-24T19:17:00.000-08:00

Dear Izzy,

21 months...wow! So what's new this month? This isn't really new since you've been doing it for a while but Mommy thinks that you are a real singer! You love to sing and make up funny songs every day.

You also have a memory like an elephant. You remember events and people very well. You remember 姑姑 and 奶奶 even after they left. Another few more months and you'll be turning 2! Mommy has to start thinking about your birthday party!

Love, Mom

Getting ready to visit Ah Ma, Ah Kong and Godma in Vancouver!

School Photo Day

2010-11-18T15:11:00.000-08:00

Oh my gosh...it's school photo day today! Your very first! Mommy dressed you up in your cute denim dress and navy blue cardigan for your special day. You look soooo cute!

Love, Mom

Bittersweet Moments

2010-11-17T14:08:00.000-08:00

Izzy, you did not cry when I dropped you off at school today...you gave me a wave goodbye instead! YAY, what a milestone! You have finally gotten over your separation anxiety.

When I came to pick you up from school, I asked you...
Mommy: So Izzy, do you play with any friends at school?
Izzy: Dino, mmuak mmmuakk! *purses lips together and makes kissing sounds*

Oh my goodness...that's the funniest thing EVER! I went home and told Daddy and he was a little concerned. He has been teaching you to say "NO, Dino!" when he approaches you. Awww, Daddy wants to be the only man in your life. Hilarious.

Love, Mom

Busy Mommy

2010-11-12T02:15:00.000-08:00

Dear Izzy,

Oh Mommy has been really really busy these days...I've picked up a couple of extra clients and will be kept really busy for now. So not only do I take care of you full time, I have 3 clients I freelance for...some days I wish there were more than 24 hours in a day!

But Mommy promises that I won't neglect you although sometimes you need to play by yourself a little more. Mommy might also increase the number of days you go to preschool. I hope I will be able to pull a super mommy till the end of the year!

Love, Mom

20.5 months

2010-11-10T02:05:00.000-08:00

Hi Izzy!

Since you are now solidly napping only once a day and getting easier to take out by myself, Mommy decided to take you to the Long Beach aquarium for our first big Mommy and Me outing! You did soooo well and Mommy's so proud of you. We met up with one of Mommy's ex co-workers there who just had her little baby girl, Lauren. You were so nice and gentle with her...awww.

You are also definitely starting to put more and more words together. Although most times, Mommy still finds it difficult to decipher what you say, the other day, you pointed at Zoë who Mommy accidentally locked outside the patio and said "Eh Wee side!". You saved the day and Zoë from being locked outside. What a good little sister you are!

Love,
Mom

"Mommy, nemos!" she says

So gentle with baby Lauren

Halloween and Trick or Treatin' Festivities!

2010-11-01T07:41:00.001-07:00

Trick or Treat!!!

Izzy, last year, you were just a teeny tiny pea. And this year, you're a busy bumble bee! Ahhh...time flies! You had yourself a blast this Halloween. You were old enough to enjoy yourself and even go trick or treatin'. It was the cutest sight.

You also dressed up for dance class and was the cutest little dancer bee that day.

Can't wait till next Halloween...Mommy has to think up another cute costume for you! Maybe we should do a family one again, that's if your Daddy decides to participate too!

Love, Mom

Our first Halloween together

At a Halloween party...getting ready for some trick or treatin'!

Trick or treat!

Cutest little dancer bee at dance class

Helping Daddy pick out a pumpkin

First Bug from Preschool

2010-10-28T19:40:00.000-07:00

Yucky Yucky...

Izzy got her first bug from school today. You are coughing non stop and have a slight temperature. Urgh...Mommy hates it when you get sick but I guess it is unavoidable since you are at school now. Let's hope you get over it soon so we can go trick-or-treating for Halloween!

Love, Mom

Happy 20 months birthday!

2010-10-24T07:41:00.000-07:00

Happy 20 months birthday Izzy!

You have learned to use the word "Bad Girl!" and the other day you called Mommy that when I told you that I had to go out and run some errands and you were to stay home. You are hilarious!

You are so very active and never "walk" anywhere. Always running to where you have to go! You are also super independent, wanting to do things yourself all the time. No longer a little baby!

Love, Mom

Mommy and Izzy doing a Halloween craft together.

NYC Trip without Izzy

2010-10-22T07:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

Mommy and Daddy left on our very first trip without you. Oh wow, I miss you sooooo much! But we heard from 姑姑 and 奶奶 that you've been such a good girl! You are more well-behaved than when Mommy and Daddy are home! Now, why is that??

We went to the coolest toy store in Manhattan called FAO Schwartz. One day, we'll take you there, you'll go crazy!

Oh you'll LOVE these puppies...

And check out the Hello Kitty section!

Anyway, Mommy missed you a lot when we were apart and can't wait to see you when we get home!

Love you baby!
Mommy

Preschool days

2010-10-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

Dear little Izzy,

You are having such a HARD time adjusting to preschool, much to Mommy's surprise! But I guess it's because you've been with me 24/7 for the last 18 months of your life. Some days are better than the others but you're always crying when Mommy drops you off. It breaks my heart but I know it's good for you. I hope school gets better for you soon and you'll start to enjoy it more.

Love, Mom

Flu Shot

2010-10-14T19:39:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

We went in to the doctor's to get your flu shot today. Mommy got one at the same time as well. WOW! You did really well. Gu Gu was in the room with us and you didn't even notice it when the nurse gave you your shot. Good job, Izzy!

Love, Mom

Nai Nai and Gu Gu are here!

2010-10-13T07:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

Your Nai Nai and Gu Gu are here to see you all the way from Malaysia! You guys are going to have lots of fun together.

Love, Mom

19.5 months

2010-10-10T07:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

Your do more imaginative play nowadays. Mommy thinks you have an imaginary friend! And we noticed that you really love to "help" out around the kitchen when Daddy is cooking or preparing something. I think you might have his culinary gene!

Your vocabulary is also exploding at an accelerating rate...you probably can say about 20-30 words but understand about 200 and Mommy and Daddy really have to be careful when speaking in front of you. You are stringing 2-3 words together but have full on conversations with your babbling.

You run everywhere and never seem to need to stop. Where do you get all this energy from? You are such a crazy little girl, but I LOVE it!

Love, Mom

Helping Daddy roll out mini croissants for breakfast

Daddy's little sous chef

First Day of Preschool!

2010-10-04T16:35:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

It's your first day of school today! Mommy's excited. I think you will like school just because you are such an outgoing little girl and you love hanging out with people your own size.

You did well on your first day...you think it's just like a playdate with so many little friends and a great playground to play in. Daddy packed you a delicious lunch and you sat nicely with all your friends during lunch time.

This is going to be great! You'll go to school 2 half days a week and that gives Mommy about 6 extra hours of free time a week to work on her 3 jobs in addition of taking care of you full time! Oh wow, that's a mouthfull...I think I need 26 hour days!

Love, Mom

First day of school!

Lunch packed by Daddy

Lunch time!

Godma and Uncle Justin's visit

2010-10-02T07:34:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

You had an awesome time when Godma and Uncle Justin came for a visit. We went to sooo many places with them...shopping, dinners, to the beach, Godma joined us at your dance class etc. It was a week of activities!

It was great having Godma and Uncle Justin visit. The next time you see them will be in January!

Love, Mom

Dinner at Lawry's prime rib house. As usual, you were being all cute and the waitress gave you free food and ice cream!

At the beach! Our last beach day of the summer...

Happy 19 months birthday!

2010-09-24T08:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

You are getting better and better at stringing words together and you've been using the word "please" quite often much to Mommy's delight! What a polite little girl. You are happy and fun loving that I can't imagine a much "funner" age. I hate to see this one pass us by, but I know it is only a matter of time before this month has come and gone. The days of limited vocabulary are far and few between and your reasoning is growing by the minute.

You will run to Mommy when you get hurt and say "owie" and point to where you got hurt. Most times, you feel better after Mommy kisses your owie. Very frequently now when you want attention, you'll just tell me that you have an owie, even if you don't have one or it was the same owie an hour ago, just to get my attention and a kiss from Mommy. It's hilarious!

You also LOVE playing outside. Whenever you are in the house, you will go to where the patio is and say "yide", your short form for "outside" as you cannot really pronounce "s" yet. And you are so happy just coloring on the ground with your sidewalk chalk and riding on your car.

I cant get enough of your determined little self in trying to communicate with us. You are perfect in every way, and we couldn't be more blessed if we wanted to. 19 months-the best so far!

Love, Mom

Mommy & Izzy at the Zimmer Children's Museum

Flower Girl

2010-09-18T19:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

Mommy's soooo proud of you today. You did such a good job being Auntie Janet and Uncle Jeff's flower girl. To tell you the truth, Mommy was very worried that you'll just be running around and screaming...but to my surprise, you are such a little ham! I could tell you loved the attention you got from everyone!

Sean, the flower boy, did an amazing job too! The both of you are definitely the cutest flower boy and flower girl in the whole wide world!

Love, Mom

Walking down the aisle

Izzy bustin' a move!

18.5 months

2010-09-11T20:08:00.001-07:00

Izzy,

It's funny what you pick up, the other day, you called Da Da "Honey" because you hear Mommy call him that all the time! You've also learned to scream out "MINE!" when someone tries to take something away that you want and your newest fascination are bellybuttons, yours, mine, everybody's.

Temper tantrums are common nowadays too as you try to assert and test your boundaries. It's hilarious sometimes when you lie down in the middle of the grocery store and throw one! Your imaginative play is also developing and you love "cooking" for Mommy!

You look so different from the crawling baby a few months ago. You are definitely a little person now, with attitude and everything!

Love, Mom

Izzy enjoys art, just like Mommy!

Mommy's Birthday!

2010-09-08T19:38:00.000-07:00

♪ ♫ Happy Birthday to Mommy, Happy Birthday to Mommy, Happy Birthday to Mommy...Happy Birthday to me! ♫ ♪

Dear Izzy,

It's Mommy's birthday today, and what a wonderful way to spend it then to spend it with my 2 most favorite people in the world, you and Daddy! What a year Mommy had...being a mom is really the best thing that has ever happened to me. Parenting is an amazing journey and there is nothing quite like it...especially being a Mommy to you, Izzy!

I love you and thanks for being such a good girl today!

Love, Mom

At Johnny Rockets for Mommy's birthday lunch

18 month Baby Wellness Checkup

2010-08-30T12:43:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

Today we went in to see Dr. Scott for your 18 month baby wellness check up. You weigh in at 20lbs 7oz (4%) and you measure 31.75 inches in height (50%). Your head measures 47cm (64%), no wonder why your regular 12-18 month t-shirts without snaps on the side are difficult to pull over your head!! It's kind of hard to dress you nowadays because you still fit in 6-12 month old bottoms (although for pants, they are always too short as you are average height) but you fit in 12-18 month old tops.

Dr. Scott is happy that you are now in the 4th percentile in weight. We all think it's because you have started loving milk. You drink about 18-24oz of milk a day!

Your imaginary play has developed. You still talk to your stuffed animals but now you also pretend cook and feed them. It's the cutest thing ever! Seems like you are quite the maternal little girl.

Mommy and Daddy cannot stop talking about how funny you are right now. It's great when it's at night and when we are both in bed, sometimes we just burst out laughing just talking about the things you did during the day. You definitely complete us.

Love, Mom

Practice Run: Flower boy and girl

2010-08-29T20:39:00.000-07:00

Oh you guys are so cute!

WHY?!?!?!? ...

2010-08-27T13:37:00.000-07:00

...did you throw my phones into the pool??? You threw both Mommy's brand-spanking new iPhone and the home phone into the pool while we were having a pool party today. URGH....ISABELLE!!!!!

Happy Year and a Half!! (18 months)

2010-08-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Year and a Half, Isabelle!!!

You are growing up into a little girl now...it's unbelievable how fast this past 18 months have just gone by in a blink of an eye.

Your terrible twos have definitely started early. You are now throwing crazy tantrums! You fling yourself onto the floor (not caring where we are) and start screaming and kicking your feet. You even did this at the 99 Ranch Market! People were staring at you but you didn't care...you have no shame at all!

Lately in the past few months, the only time that you can sit down quietly is when you watch your favorite TV show, Ni Hao, Kai-Lan. You have picked up several words from that show in Chinese! Mommy's so proud of you. You now know how to say "ye ye" (grandpa), "ma yi" (ants) and "bao bao" (hug/carry). And the rest of the time, you are very busy...you are always busy! Mommy has given up cleaning up your toys during your nap because you really like everything better scattered on the floor in the living room, and you manage to undo all of my cleaning efforts in less than 2 mins after waking from your nap.

I see your other cuspids coming out...I think that's why you are not sleeping so well these nights. Due to this, your 2nd nap is back on some days. It's hard to schedule playdates when Mommy doesn't know if you will need a 2nd nap or not. Some days when you don't need a morning nap, you just roll around in your crib talking and singing to yourself. The other day, you managed to take off all your clothes, including your diaper. Daddy was shocked when he went to pick you up from your crib.

How I wish I could just bottle you up at this age. You are such a funny little person who cracks both Mommy and Daddy up and always leave us in stitches.

Love, Mom

Uh oh...BUSTED!! (Always getting into some mischief!)

We put you in time-out but it seems you are enjoying it.

First Dance Class

2010-08-21T19:20:00.000-07:00

Busy Izzy,

Mommy and you went to a demo dance class today. It was held at Third Street Dance studio and it was for ballet, modern and hip hop. You were a natural, even volunteering yourself to the teacher for a dance demo. You definitely love attention as after the demo, you just stayed in the front of the class prancing around. You are also a total teacher's pet - helping to pass out and clean up toys. Mommy saw that you enjoyed it so much so we have signed you up for the fall session. Can't wait to take you to your classes!

Now we have to go shopping for some leotards and dance shoes...you definitely have the Ow genes in the dancing department. Godma will be so happy to teach you some moves when you are older!

Love, Mom

Demoing for the class

Enjoying the attention

Teacher's pet

Swimming Classes!

2010-08-17T11:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

We started swimming classes today! I think you had fun since you are such a water baby. The class focused more on what you should instinctively do if/when you go underwater. You have to blow bubbles so you don't gulp down water. We have to practice this over and over again. It also taught you how to head towards the edge of the pool, reach out and hold on.

We have to definitely continue swimming lessons every summer if we are to live in California because 1 in every 5 households have a pool and want you to be water safe!

Love, Mom

Izzy learns to kick

She's so proud of herself!

First Cuspid

2010-08-14T21:23:00.000-07:00

Izzybelle,

Mommy sees signs of your first cuspid (also known as the canines)...the lower left one. Your gums look quite swollen, poor baby. You are not eating too well these few days. They must hurt! But the good news is, afterall your cuspids come out, you will be free of any teething discomfort for quite a while, until your 2nd molars come in, which will be after your 2nd birthday. Hang in there, big girl!

Love, Mom

17.5 months

2010-08-13T15:27:00.000-07:00

Happy 17.5 months, busy Izzy!

Your new words this week are "shoes", "aiyah" and "oh no". You also love to hum. You hum songs and it is starting to resemble actual, real songs instead of just random notes!

Some days when you are nice and cooperative, it's very pleasant to change your diaper because you will actually go and get a clean diaper and give it to Mommy. Mommy will ask you to lay down and you'll actually listen to me *gasp* and lay down nicely and get your diaper changed. It's great! Your imagination is also developing. You are starting to talk to your stuffed animals more and more now...or maybe you have an imaginary friend? You are constantly babbling like you are speaking sentences.

WOW, you are really good at recognizing roads! When we pick Daddy up from work, even before we see him, Mommy turns into the street where the hotel is and you yell "DADA"! It's awesome that you have such a good sense of direction...I wonder who you got that from?!

Love, Mom

Back in LA, enjoying the sun...life is hard.

Back in LA

2010-08-09T22:26:00.000-07:00

My little Jetsetter,

We are back in LA and oh how much did you miss all your toys? A LOT! The moment we got back to the house, you ran right to your ball pit, jumped in it and hugged all your stuffed animals! It was awesome. You played for 1/2 hour even though you were dead tired and went to bed around 10 pm. So back to our normal schedule of playdate, outings and maybe some preschool classes!

Love, Mom

Last First Molar is Out!

2010-08-06T19:09:00.001-07:00

Hey Izzy!

Your last first molar is out...YAY! The molars didn't really bother you too much, thank God. So now altogether, you have 12 chompers. YUM...no wonder you are enjoying your meats more.

Love, Mom

WHY?!?!?!

2010-08-05T17:46:00.001-07:00

Dear Izzy,

Oh my GOSH...you have learned a new word today and it is the word...WHY???? So the whole day today when you were home, or in the car, or while outside, you kept on saying "WHY? WHY? WHY?"

Goodbye peace and quiet!

Love, Mom

Happy 17 month birthday!

2010-07-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

Happy 17 month birthday, Izzy! Another month older...you are growing up too fast.

You have taken a liking to money...YES, money! You like notes but right now, you like coins better...but I am sure you will like notes more than coins in the very near future! You like to slot coins into the piggy bank...you are so focused when you do it. Hopefully, you'll grow up to be a good saver!

You are running quite well now. Before it use to take you a second to get from one spot to another, now it takes you a nano-second. It's CRAAAZY! You are so fast, you are like Houdini, and disappear from Mommy's sight all the time. I can't even blink nowadays!

Not only are you Houdini, you are also the Monkey King. During meals, you don't even want to sit in the high chair anymore...you are always climbing out of them! Mommy really doesn't know what to do with you at mealtime these days.

And when you want to, you follow directions very well. But you do have the "selective-hearing syndrome" where you only hear what you want and when you want. Oh, the joys of toddlerhood!

You have also developed the feeling of empathy. Empathy is the ability to not only detect what others feel but also to experience that emotion yourself. It's really comical when you watch Ni Hao, Kai-Lan and start crying when Tolee cries or when Kai-Lan gets hurt. The other day, you started crying when we were watching some nature documentary and 2 of the baboons were fighting! We really have to monitor what you watch so you won't get upset.

Oh gosh, what new things will you pick up next month?

Love, Mom

Izzy enjoying the water taxi ride @ Granville Island in Vancouver, BC

Milestone: Mommy & Daddy's First Trip Away

2010-07-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

Our first milestone! Mommy and Daddy went away on our first overnight trip without you. We went to Nanaimo, BC and stayed at a beautiful property called Wickaninnish Inn. The last time we were here was 10 years ago...wow, how time flies!

Although Mommy and Daddy enjoyed and needed this trip, we also missed you soooo much! Ah Ma and Lau Yi took care of you while we were gone. Apparently you were very well-behaved! You ate and slept very well. Ah Ma says you behave better when we are not around...and why is that, Izzy?

Anyway, only after a night away from you, Mommy and Daddy were glad to be back together with you. One day, we will take you here...hopefully we don't have to wait another 10 years for that to happen!

Love, Mom

Beautiful property on the cliff overlooking the ocean

View from our room

Our room with floor-to-ceiling windows

More Molars!

2010-07-15T09:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

More molars just popped up probably a couple days ago! But you've been so well-behaved that Mommy didn't notice anything. Both of your 1st molars on the bottom have erupted. It looks really painful because your gums are pretty swollen but you are such a trooper. So now leaves the top right 1st molar...I am sure it's not far behind!

Love, Mom

16.5 months

2010-07-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

Mommy needs to find a way to get Father Time to slow down! You are 16.5 months today and are a ball of energy. Seriously, the more I look at you, the more Mommy wonders where the little tiny dependent baby went to? You are this feisty, demanding and totally independent little girl. You no longer want to be carried, mostly wanting to go wherever you want to go.

You are starting to string 2 words together. Your first word string is "no more". Whenever you finish eating something, you sign and you say "no more". You are also a stuffed animal lover. When we go shopping, you often beeline to the stuffed animal corner and hug all the animals. You will also usually pick a stuffed bear and walk around the whole store. When we have to go, Mommy tells you to put the "bear bear" back because he lives in the store. Sometimes you throw a fit because you want to take him home with you! You enjoy riding on Mommy's back, whenever I am laying on my belly, you come and sit on my back and press a "button" (which is anywhere on my back) to tell me to start to giddy-up.

Mommy and you flew into Vancouver by ourselves today. Mommy felt like supermom carrying you in the ergo, one hand pulling our 50 lb luggage, the other hand wheeling the carseat and lugging a heavy carry-on luggage on my shoulder. I think I was carrying at least 50 lbs on my body, half of my own weight! People were clearing a path for us when we were walking through. You were so good on the plane, although I think you might have peek-a-booed to death the 3 passengers sitting behind us. An old couple sat beside us and the grandma was so in love with you! She even helped carry you a couple of times...you really charmed her. After playing, you fell asleep in Mommy's arms for about 1.5 hours, you didn't even wake up when the flight landed...we were the last ones off the plane because Mommy had to eventually wake you up! Thank you for being such a good girl!

Love, Mom

My happy little frequent flyer

Happy 4th of July!!

2010-07-04T20:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

Happy 4th of July to my American girl! You were allowed to stay up a little later today because you had a couple of good naps. So you could also celebrate Independence Day and enjoy your first BBQ prepared by Daddy! Mommy loves it when we get to eat at the table as a family. You enjoyed munching on the corn and chicken wings. They are delicious, aren't they?

Love, Mom

Definitely a Mac!

2010-07-01T14:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

You are a true Mac girl! Not only you have your own iBook, you have inherited Daddy's old iPhone. Maybe we need to get you an iPad too. You are going to grow up to be a Mac fan girl for sure!

Love, Mom

Happy 16 month birthday!! NOOOO!

2010-06-24T13:10:00.000-07:00

Busy Izzy,

Your new word this week is "No!"...it actually sounds more like "Naw". Why do you have a southern twang? Seems like everything Mommy asks you to eat or do is "Naw". I thought I wouldn't have to deal with this until later but I guess you are way ahead of the game!

Nowadays, when we tell you "night night" you pick up your Lulu and your soother and walk yourself to your bedroom. It's the cutest thing. I am glad that sleep is not something we have to fight about...you have learned to enjoy it!

You have caught a case of "stranger danger". It takes you a good 10 mins to warm up to a new person or a person you don't see around much...especially if the person is in your "territory". The other day when Godpa came to drop off the car to us, you were screaming your lungs out because you usually see Daddy in the driver's seat and then when the building manager came into our apartment to replace a battery in the thermostat, you got all nervous and ran to Daddy. Even though you've seen these people around, when they come into your "territory", you get anxious. It seems like it happens with more male than female.

Your gross motor skills have also improved tremendously. You LOVE to climb and your hands and feet are very well coordinated! We really live at the park these days because we are there after almost every nap. Mommy's so glad we live close to such a great park where you can expand all your energy. Mommy really has no time to do any other things than to find stuff to entertain you.

Because you are so active and always on the go, Mommy has considered putting you into school/daycare during the day so I can get my work done. But since talking to our Mommy friends, Mommy's going to wait until we get back from Vancouver to make any decisions. It is so true that you have the next 18 years of your life to go to school and I shouldn't be in a rush to put you in school. I should just enjoy the time I have with you right now. You will always be this age once and you are WAY too much fun! I am actually enjoying this stay-at-home Mommy business! Who knew?! We are so lucky that Daddy's hard work lets us do just that. We love you and thank you, Daddy! xoxo

Love, Mom

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T20:24:00.000-07:00

Dear Isabelle,

It's Daddy's 2nd Father's Day and this time you are actually able to celebrate with him! Last year you were just an itty-bitty thing. So what did you get for Daddy this year? Well, actually, "what did we get YOU?" is the question. We got you a mini apron that reads "Daddy's Little Sous Chef" and a t-shirt that says "When I grow up, I want to be a chef like my dad". You love to watch Daddy and get involved when he cooks so the apron will come in handy in the future and the shirt, it's just soooo cute, Mommy couldn't pass it up.

Happy 2nd Father's Day, Daddy!

Love, Mom

Yap Yap Yap

2010-06-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

We try and practice your speaking everyday. Here we record your practice session for Daddy and all to see. You do well when you are in front of the camera...must be the Hollywood in you.

Love, Mom

Top Left Molar

2010-06-11T12:40:00.000-07:00

Izzy,

You have graduated to growing molars now! Today, you took Mommy's finger and put it in the back of your mouth and took a BITE. Mommy was expecting to feel nothing because it is supposed to be all gum back there but OUCH, Mommy felt something sharp! Your top left molar is starting to come in now...let's hope the rest of them won't bother you too much.

Love, Mom

15.5 months

2010-06-08T07:11:00.000-07:00

My dearest Izzy-belle,

It seems like Mommy has no time for anything these days! We are constantly going out after your nap(s) so as to keep you busy and entertain you. We are now a regular at the playgoups and also the park! You have also made friends with the other "regulars" there. It's funny to see you and the same kids get into trouble together.

You have started to engage other kids to play with you instead of only engaging in parallel play which is really cute. Most of the time, they are older kids and sometimes you like to go to babies and pat them. You "call" the kids for their attention and start waving at them. Sometimes you go right up to them and squeal at the top of your lungs and are quite "in-your-face". It's hilarious.

You've started calling me "Mama" and Daddy "Dada"! Hooray...you used to just babble these words without meaning. New words you've picked up are "nana" for banana, "bah" for bird, "Pain" for plane, "wuwu" for your Lulu. And oh, you would purposely throw stuff around and go "uh oh", thinking that would fool Mommy that it was an accident!

We are still working on your nap schedule...some days its 1 nap and other days 2. It really depends on what time you are waking up in the morning. Mommy can't wait till you totally transition over to 1 nap so our days are more predictable. On the bright side, you are waking up a little later than your usual 6am!

Love, Mom

Beach Day @ Manhattan Beach

2010-06-06T07:11:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

There is no doubt in my mind you will be a surfer one day. You really love the ocean...ever since you were born, you fall asleep with the sound of waves crashing on the shore on your sound machine. And today, your first visit to the beach, you had no fear of the water...even though the water was freezing cold and the waves were big at times, you just wanted to be in the ocean. You were yelling and screaming when we took you out and back to Godpa's house!

You are a true California girl at heart!

Love, Mom

15 month Baby Wellness Exam

2010-06-03T11:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

It's that time again...your wellness exam and your final vaccinations until you reach 2 years old. URGH! This time, Mommy is going alone with you and we have to hold you down while you get your shots. That is one of the hardest thing a mother has to do, see her little baby in pain. Today you got 3 shots: DTaP, HIB and Varicella (chicken pox). You screamed so loudly that everyone, even the receptionist was scared of you. What can I say, Isabelle, you are a little bit of a Hollywood drama queen!

Today you weighed in at 18lbs 4oz. (1%), you measured 30.5in in height (50%) and 45.75cm in head circumference (45%). Dr. Scott said you are growing well. He also tested your cognitive development by asking you to follow a series of simple instructions. He spinned a top on the ground and asked you to go and pick it up, change hands and then give it to him. You understood every word and he was very impressed! Even Mommy was impressed because half the time when Mommy asks you to do something, you don't! Dr. Scott said that is called "selective attention and hearing"...hahaha. He also said that you are moving around very well as he saw you running around the waiting room before you were checked in and then climbing up Mommy's leg. He also told Mommy to look forward to more talking from you. We should always narrate our day to you to expand your vocabulary. WOW!

The next time you go back and see Dr. Scott is at the end of August for your 18 month check up.

Love, Mom

Memorial Day in San Diego

2010-06-01T07:10:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

Daddy took us on a mini vacation in San Diego for Memorial Day. It was such a beautiful weekend...the weather was perfect and we stayed at a gorgeous hotel!

You did well on our first road trip. The drive to San Diego was about 2.5 hours but on our way there, we stopped for lunch and then proceeded to the resort.

You had lots of fun at the pool and sand pit. Although it was supposed to be a relaxing mini vacation, taking care of a toddler on vacation is not a vacation at all! When Daddy came back to LA, he had to go for a massage because you were too much for him to handle...hahaha. Mommy said that he should try doing it everyday with no help, then he'll know how I feel!

All it all, it was a great trip. Summer in California is beautiful and there are many other resort towns that we will have to visit!

Love, Mom

She loves BUBBLES!

2010-05-30T08:57:00.003-07:00

No Fear

2010-05-30T08:57:00.001-07:00

Happy 15 month birthday!

2010-05-24T08:54:00.000-07:00

Happy 15 months, Izzy! Another busy month has flown by...it seems like time is going by faster and faster these days.

So what have you been up to this month? You now recognize a whole array of fruits and veggies. It's because Daddy loves bringing you to the farmer's market every time he gets a chance. Now whenever we are grocery shopping, you point at all the fruits and vegetables you like, for example, strawberries, pear, grapes, oranges, broccoli, carrots, avocado etc. A lot of times, after you point at the fruits, you want to eat them! Mommy has to bring fruits to the supermarket now or you'll throw a tantrum.

After watching "My Baby Can Read", you've also learned the hand signals for Itsy Bitsy Spider and will sometimes simultaneously do it while watching it on TV. You pick things up really fast now! When Mommy or Daddy reads you your bedtimes stories, you also point to whatever we are reading about in the book. You especially love pointing to the red ballooon and the cow in "Goodnight Moon".

As for speechwise, some new words you've picked up are "woow woow" for dog, "yummm" when food is delicious, "uh oh" for accidents, bringing me to the kitchen pantry, pointing to the cupboard and saying "cookie", "mum mum" (sounds more like mem mem) for food, "be be" for your big fuzzy stuffed bear and "ba bu" for bubbles. Sometimes you even speak in really long "sentences" but the only thing is Mommy doesn't know what you mean?! You're vocabulary is growing every single day!

You LOVE the park. Your favorites are the swing and the slide. You always pull Mommy towards the swing so I can put you in it and push you. And you're so brave nowadays, you go down the slide yourself! Sometimes Mommy thinks you are going to give me a heart attack whenever you are all crazy at the park!

I also think you are ready to transition to 1 nap a day. Your waketimes have lengthened and it's hard to put you down for your 9am and 1:30pm naps. So Mommy is going to slowly push back your 9am nap to around noon and then eliminate your 1:30pm nap altogether. It's going to be a cranky couple of weeks till the new schedule is established. But on the bright side, once you are down to 1 nap, it will be soooo much easier to schedule playdates!

Love, Mom

Cooking breakfast for Mommy...

Cookie Monster

Izzy LOVES the swing!

8th Tooth!

2010-05-19T13:37:00.000-07:00

I see the beginnings of your 8th tooth today! You were showing Ah Ma how you brush your teeth on Skype and had your mouth WIDE open and Mommy saw a tiny white line where your right lateral incisor is supposed to be. Now your top and your bottom jaw have the same number of teeth!

Just For Fun!

2010-05-18T14:13:00.000-07:00

Mommy took a quiz today to try to distinguish your temperament. Here goes:

Isabelle's Personality Profile

Mood
Your baby has a sunny disposition.

Intensity
Your baby has a high intensity, which is wonderful when the emotion is positive, not so wonderful when feelings are negative. Parents and caregivers may have difficulty distinguishing between this baby's cries, whether the complaint indicates mild discomfort or something more serious. Either way, this baby gets attention.

Regularity
Your baby is happiest with a predictable routine, which in turn makes it easy for you to predict her wants and needs.

Activity
Your baby has boundless energy, which can be wonderful and exasperating, depending on the situation. The busy baby needs plenty of opportunities for physical exercise and play, and a parent's eagle eye checking for dangerous situations. (If he won't stay restrained in a shopping cart, for instance, carry him!)

Sensitivity
Your baby is aware of what's going on around her, and yet is not disturbed by sensory stimulation. She can tolerate a little noise and activity, but may have a personal pet peeve, such as disco music during naptime or a diaper that's damp.

Initial Response
Your child is cautious in new situations. The slow-to-warm-up child likes to hang back and observe before getting involved with new people. When your child's situation will be changing--a move to the toddler room at daycare, for instance--prepare the child in advance by visiting the new place and meeting the people involved in the transition.

Adaptability
Your child is fairly adaptable to new situations in the long-term. If Dad takes over a routine that was once Mom's domain, such as giving a bath or reading bedtime stories, your child will be wary at first, but will eventually accept the new order. As much as possible, let your child know what to expect, and as your child gets older, make sure the rules and boundaries are clear. It's easier to be adaptable in a household that has an established order and rules that are firm and understood.

I think this is quite on point with your temperament in quite a few of the different sections!

Water Baby

2010-05-15T19:42:00.000-07:00

You are truly a Pisces, Izzy!

Since it was a warm day today, Mommy decided that we should try out the pool. So we got ready, put you in your new fancy surf suit (which is supposed to protect you from all the harmful UV rays with its long sleeves) and rubbed ourselves down with lots of sunscreen. Mommy blew up the new floatie we got you too...you got sooo excited!

Finally we were all ready, we headed to the pool. Mommy dipped my toe in the water to test the temperature...BRRRRRR! The water was freezing cold still! But you, my little water baby, could not wait to get into the water. You kept on kicking your feet and splashing the water everywhere!

So as to not disappoint you, Mommy lowered you down into your floatie, fully expecting you to start protesting about the water's temperature but to my surprise, you were giggling and splashing in the freezing cold water! You are definitely my little Pisces, Isabelle.

Mommy couldn't let you swim for too long today...so we took you out of the pool after 15 mins. But you swam more when we put you into the bath!

We'll have to schedule a pool playdate with your buddies soon.

Love, Mom

All happy in the water!

Trying to swim...

First Dentist Visit

2010-05-11T14:44:00.001-07:00

Dear Izzy,

We went in for your very first dental visit today! Boy, was it an adventure. When we arrived, you headed straight for the play area. You had so much fun, playing with the toys and coloring. Then when it came to your turn to see Dr. Robert Smith, you started to cry and clenched your jaw down so tight like an alligator! But Dr. Smith was able to make you open your mouth by giving you a toothbrush to chew on and he checked out the 7 toofers you have.

Mommy was a little concerned about the size of your teeth and asked Dr. Smith if they looked too big for your mouth and he said that right now, your mouth is probably too small for your teeth. With time, your mouth will grow but your teeth will remain the same size and so they won't look too big anymore. Dr. Smith mentioned an underbite because you flashed him your fake smile with your top teeth slightly behind your bottom teeth. He said he won't be able to tell right now and it might just be a habit. What has Mommy been telling you? Don't smile like that! I think you do it on purpose because it looks so funny.

Love, Mom

Izzy and her fake smile...

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T14:43:00.000-07:00

Dear daughter,

You made me a better mother
than I ever thought I'd be
You are more than I ever hoped for
such a sweet reward to me.

You have my heart forever
I loved you from the start
It's my privilege to be your mother
Dear daughter, deep down from my heart.

I am so blessed and lucky to be your Mommy. Even though you drive me up the wall most days, I would not trade you for the world!

Love, Mom

14.5 months

2010-05-08T14:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

You are a whirlwind of activity and curiosity! I am not sure where you get all your energy from but you sure wear Mommy out every day. And you touch EVERYTHING in sight...you really have a pair of busy hands!

You have also started to throw real temper tantrums...and are they ever dramatic! You do it when Mommy or Daddy say "No" to you. You throw your body on the floor and start kicking your legs and screaming. Mommy usually has to ignore you because trying to reason with you is like talking to a brick wall. After a few minutes, you will calm yourself down and go back to whatever you were doing before.

Your language and cognitive development are definitely starting to be very obvious. You always imitate what we say to you when we point out objects. The other day, you took me to the fridge and kept on saying "Pe! Pe!" Mommy didn't get it at first and when I carried you up, you pointed to the pear! Oh, now I know what you wanted...a pear! Silly mommy, what's wrong with me, right? You also know that objects are used for certain purposes. Like when the phone rings, you quickly pick up an object that looks like a phone, i.e. the remote control or my computer mouse and put it to your ear and say "hi!" It's really adorable. And when Mommy or Daddy asks you to talk on the phone to someone, you run to the phone and say "hi" and then run away smiling.

Yes, you are starting to run now. Mommy has to keep one eye on you at all times because 1 second you are here, the other second you are gone! And since you have very busy hands and have learned to open and close cupboards, we cannot let you run around the apartment without supervision.

What a busy, busy girl you are but so much fun.

Love, Mom

Adventures in Toronto

2010-05-03T14:42:00.000-07:00

Thank you for being a good girl on our trip, Izzy. For the most part, you were your cheeky little self. Mommy knows how much you value your sleep and when it gets interrupted, you can get quite cranky! But even with the time difference, the bad/missed naps, you were still quite well-behaved, well, for Izzy's standard anyways.

You did well on the plane ride there and back and we have to really thank Uncle Andrew who flew with us from YVR to YYZ. He helped entertain you on the plane and with our luggages because Mommy had so many things we had to bring with us. I think you scared him with the amount of snacks that you ate on the flight!

You had a lot of fun in Auntie Evelyn and Frank's house...playing in their beautiful yard, climbing up and down the stairs and terrorizing everyone in it. The first 2 days we were there, we visited the malls. The third day, Mommy and Izzy ventured out downtown to meet up with one of Mommy's ex-co-worker and her girls. We had a great time! We even met up with Mommy's ex-boss!

Izzy's new obsession...STICKS!

Izzy with her instant girlfriends, Ryleigh (left) and Madison (right)

The next day, we went and saw Daddy at his competition at the culinary school. You were sooo happy to see Daddy because you hadn't seen him for about 3 weeks. Daddy was also delighted to see you. We went there to support Daddy and he did GREAT! Just for you, Daddy won the right to represent Canada in the 2013 Bocuse d'Or to be held in Lyon, France. We will be there to cheer Daddy on!

Izzy running down the halls of the culinary school with Kimberly

Champion Daddy and baby finally reunited!

Since you've been such a good girl and traveler, Mommy is confident to take you on more trips now.

Love, Mom

Happy 14 month birthday!

2010-04-24T07:57:00.000-07:00

My dearest Izzy,

So you've turned vegetarian?! You haven't really been eating any meat these few days. Mommy tried to make you chicken, beef and even meatballs in tomato sauce but you wouldn't eat them. You only eat your broccoli, carrots, peas and pasta! Those are your favorite vegetables. You do like your seafood though...you enjoy shrimp and fish. But still, Daddy's going to be very sad if you really turn vegetarian on him because he is looking forward to cooking you many of his recipes from his repertoire.

On another note, you have totally weaned yourself from nursing. A couple of weeks ago, we were down to your bedtime feed and the early morning feed. You phased out your bedtime feed first. You would rather roll around in the bed while Mommy reads your bedtime stories than nurse and then a few days later, decided to phase out the early morning feed too. You used to wake up around 5am and Mommy would nurse you and you would go back to sleep for an hour or so. For a few days, you would wake up at 5am, but push Mommy away when I try to nurse you. So I would just put you back down in your crib. Nowadays you don't wake up at 5am anymore! YAY...you would sleep till around 6-6:30am. Mommy is very glad that the weaning went well and there were no struggles but also at the same time quite sad that our nursing sessions are over for good. My baby is truly growing up.

What Dr. Scott said was true. Once the nursing session stops, your milk intake will increase. You've been drinking more and more milk after you weaned yourself. I think we are up to about 8-10 oz of milk a day now, which is a great improvement! But you still like your milk a little bit sweet (I don't blame you after being exclusively breastfed) so we have to mix it with a bit of yogurt drink.

Trying to run is the new skill you are practicing these days. You can walk quite well now and always want to be put down when we are out. You have extremely "itchy" fingers and try to touch everything within reach. When you try to run, it's funny because you would walk really fast and throw yourself into open arms. You understand so much more words that you can say and can follow simple instructions. The new words that you've been saying this week are "hi", "wow" and "weeeeee".

Since we are in Vancouver, in the mornings when you wake up, you would go into everyone else's room and wake them up. You go to the side of the bed where they are sleeping and scream/laugh and point at them until they wake up and pay some attention to you. You are such a menace! No one is allowed to sleep in when you are around. Also, when Ah Kong takes care of you, you climb up and down the stairs, take dirty clothes from the laundry room and throw them all over the house and sometimes you walk him to the front door and point to it. You do that because you are asking him to take you to the park across from the house! You tire both Ah Ma and Ah Kong out. They are going to have a vacation when we go to Toronto for a week!

You are so much fun now...I knew you were a cheeky one but didn't expect the cheekiness to emerge so soon. Mommy really doesn't know what is going to be in store for her when you enter your terrible twos! Actually, I think it already started!

Love, Mom

Progress...

2010-04-20T11:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Izzy!

Daddy hasn't seen you in a week now and he misses you so much. You've progressed so much since he last saw you! Here's a video taken just a few days after leaving LA. You can walk so fast and far. Everyday when we talk to Daddy, he asks us if you are walking all over the place now, he has no idea! Daddy will be surprised at the improvement you have made so far!

Love, Mom

Happy Dance!

2010-04-16T12:33:00.001-07:00

Izzy,

You are such a little entertainer. Here you are doing the shoulder shimmy "Happy Dance". You usually do this after a good meal! You're just like Daddy, you love your roast pork and BBQ duck!

Love, Mom

Back in Vancouver

2010-04-13T21:08:00.000-07:00

Izzy,

We are back in Vancouver again! You travel so much, the airlines should give you frequent flier miles.

Mommy had a tough time controlling you this trip. Since learning how to walk, you now want to walk everywhere and we can't keep you contained anymore! At the airport, waiting for our flight, you were all over the place. You went up to a few people on their laptops because you like computers, you went to say "hi" to a woman and her baby, Jackson, you walked up to the window to check out the planes...you were one busy girl! Mommy thought you would be wiped out by the time we boarded the plane but noooo...you were still a ball of energy! Luckily Ah Ma was with us on the trip and helped entertain you on the flight. As usual, you didn't sleep on the plane until 30 mins before we landed.

In 2 weeks, we will fly to Toronto to support Daddy in his competition. This time we will be flying alone...just you and I. Mommy is already having anxiety...both for Daddy and our flight!

We are going to have a great time in Vancouver. Mommy has researched a few programs that we want you to participate in and we'll catch up with lots of friends!

Love, Mom

007

2010-04-12T19:31:00.000-07:00

Izzy,

Your 7th tooth joined the others today! No wonder you were all cranky the last couple of days. Mommy thought that you were coming down with something again. But it was just a tooth! It's your left lateral incisor. I am sure the right one is not far behind!

Love, Mom

13.5 months

2010-04-07T10:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

So your cough and runny nose have made it hard for you to sleep through the night. You occasionally wake up as you are unable to breathe through your nose and it's hard to breathe through your mouth because you are sucking on your soother. Poor baby...I hope you start getting back in your sleep schedule because it definitely affects your mood in the morning...oh and not forgetting Mommy's mood too!

You have learned to kiss Mommy. After seeing Daddy give Mommy good morning kisses, you brought your face in close to mine but didn't know what to do after so Mommy gave you a peck on your strawberry lips. It's so endearing because you aren't very affectionate otherwise as you are one very independent girl!

You really love to eat whatever mommy eats...even if it's the same thing you are eating! I guess it tastes better if it comes off Mommy's plate and spoon than your own. How funny. Ah Ma has also started training you to eat spicy food. She made fried radish cake the other day and put some chili in it and you ate all of it and even wanted more! You are starting to get picky in regards to what you eat...or I think maybe you don't want to be fed anymore. You would rather feed yourself. So Mommy is now doing research on what foods Daddy can cook you that you can feed yourself with...instead of the usual dishes he makes you which require a spoon to be eaten.

Walking around is now one of your favorite things to do! You are getting better and better at it everyday. Nowadays when we go out, like to the mall, you no longer want to sit in your stroller. You would rather walk around. So Mommy has to hold on to both of your hands and walk you around the mall. You get so proud and excited too! The other day at the mall, you were screaming "YAY!" when we were walking around. You're a big girl now!

Love, Mom

On our way to the park!

She loves the playground.

Izzy always wants to "walk" now...

2nd Round of Shots

2010-04-06T14:39:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

We went in to the doctor to get your 2nd round of shots today. It's your last dose of Prevnar and you also got your TB skin test. We also had a weight check for you as well. You put on 1/2 lbs! You are now up to 17lbs 2 ozs and have tripled your birth weight.

You were brave when you got your TB skin test. You saw the needle go into your arm and didn't make a peep. But then you saw the bigger needle that contained the Prevnar dose and started crying even before the nurse gave you the shot! I think you are starting to remember events now. Poor baby. I hope you don't equate the doctor's office with shots and hate going to the doctor's from now on.

You also have a slight cold and have been having a few rough nights. I guess that fever was your body trying to fight the cold virus. Get well soon because next week we will be going back to Vancouver and Mommy doesn't want to bring a sick on the plane.

Love, Mom

Happy Easter, Izzy!

2010-04-04T08:28:00.000-07:00

You've come a long way! Look at how much you've grown...

This is your first Easter that you we able to enjoy! We went to an Easter Egghunt party on Friday and you had a great time with your little friends. Mommy put on your Hello Kitty tunic dress for you and you carried your Hello Kitty Easter basket to the party. You picked up so many Easter eggs containing so many goodies inside. Then we sat on the picnic mat under the tree and had a great potluck picnic. Mommy made hazelnut cupcakes with Nutella buttercream frosting...yummm. It turned out well! Mommy can make those for your future school events! Mommy is starting to get the hang of the whole Suzie homemaker thing and I am starting to enjoy it...hahaha.

On Easter Sunday you got an Easter basket from Mommy and Daddy containing a whole bunch of new toys...all Hello Kitty! You had yourself a fabulous Hello Kitty Easter!

Love, Mom

Mommy's cupcakes

Izzy looking for Easter eggs

Mommy & Izzy

Fever Again?!

2010-03-31T12:23:00.000-07:00

You, Daddy and Mommy had a rough night last night, Izzy...you came down with a fever again. Not sure why? You slept from 6pm the night before but woke up at around 1am. You couldn't fall back asleep till 3am. But your sleep after that was very fragmented with wakeups at 3:45am and again at 5am. You were up for the day at 7am and today you are restless and have lost your appetite. Poor baby. We really hope that you put on weight since your last doctor's visit because next week we will be going in for your other round of shots and also a weight check and Mommy doesn't want you to get any unnecessary tests due to a lack of weight gain.

I hope it's just teething or some viral infection and not another UTI. Get better soon. Mommy misses the cheeky Isabelle.

Love, Mom

Video taken a couple days before getting sick...
Your walking is getting better and better!

Happy 13 month birthday!

2010-03-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

Happy 13 months, Izzy!

What have you been up to this month? LOTS! You are like a sponge and learn things so fast. You are really good at imitating sounds and have picked up the sound of the sirens that go by our apartment. When a fire truck or police car passes by with sirens blaring, you stop whatever you are doing and go "whooooooooooo" in a very high-pitched voice. It's hilarious! Your pronunciation of words is getting better too. You've learned to articulate the words "baby" and "cookie". It's so funny when you point to a baby and go "baby" because it seems like you think you are such a big girl now!

You are Zoë are becoming REALLY good friends. You've learned the word "pat" and pat her whenever she is close by. The other day after Zoë gave you kisses, you wanted to give her a kiss back so you stuck out your tongue and proceeded to try and lick her back! And then came up to Mommy and tried to lick me too! That's how a doggy kisses—not humans, silly! You've also learned how to high-five and when you want too, you do it with lots of enthusiasm!

You have self-weaned from your nursing sessions before naps and I think are also ready to stop nursing before bedtime...much to Mommy's disheartenment. I am going to miss you cuddling up to me and those starfish fingers roaming my face. I am especially going to miss the contented sigh and the all-out-stretch you always give me when you are nice and full. Another reminder that my baby is no longer a baby... And yet another reminder that you are no longer a baby is that you have started to self-feed with a fork! You are growing up too fast!

You are also very aware of your appearance. Every time when Ah Ma or Mommy puts a bow or hair clip in your hair, you take it off and check it out. And when it meets your approval, you "throw" it back onto your head expecting it to stay on. You also kiss yourself when you see your reflection in the mirror. You are so vain!

Love, Mom

So sweet and demure...

...and back to crazy Isabelle!

Bend it like Beckham!

2010-03-22T10:09:00.000-07:00

Izzy,

Do we see a future for you as a soccer star? Hmmm...maybe not! But you were too cute. Well at least next time when we try snowboarding, we know you are a goofy because you were using your right leg to try and kick the ball the whole time!

Love, Mom

Milestone: First Steps!

2010-03-16T19:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzy,

You made your first attempt to walk unassisted today! Well, you've been standing on your own, cruising and trying to walk for quite some time now. Some days Mommy has seen you take 2 steps from the sofa to the ottoman. You have been very cautious but with every practice, you build up your confidence. Today, is THE DAY. You were in the open and you took 4 steps into Mommy's arms!

You were on your knees, then you steadily got up to stand. I see the cheeky grin on your face and knew you were ready to try walking. With a little coaxing, you walked towards me and into my open arms! Oh, Mommy is so proud of you. Ah Ma was here to witness this milestone too! Maybe you were just trying to show off to Ah Ma that you're a big girl now!

Izzy, you are growing up so fast...you are officially no longer a baby.

Love, Mom

Brunch for 3!

2010-03-14T10:57:00.000-07:00

Izzy,

You are getting so big now that Mommy and Daddy have to order you food off the kid's menu. Daddy was so tickled by this when we went to brunch. No longer do you share off our plates but you get your very own meal! Your first ordered meal at Morels French Bistro today was Grilled Cheese sandwich with Aged Chedder and Granny Smith apple slices. But it seems you are a fast food addict...you wanted french fries! But you did eat half of the sandwich and some apples.

At the restaurant, you also captivated the interest of a much older boy. Mommy always thought that older kids (older than 5) usually don't have that much interest in little babies but you caught his attention and he shared his french fries with you the whole time.

I see the makings of a heartbreaker already...but don't grow up too fast!

Love, Mom

Grilled aged chedder cheese sandwich with Granny Smith apple slices

Fast foodaholic

Izzy and her much older friend

Playdates and Playground

2010-03-13T09:58:00.000-08:00

Izzy,

You really know how to have fun. And since you are now so interactive, Mommy has been taking you to the playground and also to more playdates. You enjoy playing with other kids, although a lot of times, it seems you are quite bossy! But you are good with sharing, taking turns and you are very gentle when playing with others. Mommy can tell that you also like playing with older kids. You keep up with them very well and are even able hold your own. Wait till you are able to walk and run, you'll probably be running circles around everyone!

And the other day when Mommy took you to the park and got over the fear of you getting dirty, it was the very first time you played on the sand! You were very curious about it and even tried eating sand but since it tasted yucky, you spat it out - thank God! But I guess that's how you learn. Mommy could see some tomboy traits because you really loved playing with the sand truck. After playing in the sand, we went to the slide castle and played in it...you slide down the slide belly down a few times and loved the adrenalin rush! You have also learned to climb down stairs feet first and Mommy was so proud that you remembered all the lessons we taught you at home!

We'll try to do playdates once a week and playgrounds more often, OK?

Love, Mom

Izzy hosted a playdate...

...and shared her toys so well!

At the Dress-up playdate, playing with older kids

She totally felt comfortable with them!

Playing in the sand for the first time!

Red Spots!

2010-03-11T21:42:00.000-08:00

Poor baby...

Mommy feels so bad for you right now. We have figured out why you've been super cranky these few days. The MMR vaccine symptoms are finally showing up! You had a slight fever on Tuesday and some red spots started developing on your body. Yesterday, more spots appeared and today your whole front and back are covered in red spots! You must be sooo uncomfortable because you couldn't sleep well last night. You cried a few times and the cry was different. Mommy knew at once that something is bothering you.

We made a call to Dr. Scott and the nurse at the doctor's office said that it is normal for you to develop these spots and have a slight fever 7-10 days after your MMR vaccine. She said this will last till Sunday and taper off.

You usually don't have any reactions when you get shots but I guess the MMR vaccine is one of the big ones. Mommy is trying hard to keep you happy with lots of snuggles and hugs. Hope you feel better soon.

Love, Mom

Spots on Wednesday

Spots on Thursday

12.5 months

2010-03-10T09:34:00.000-08:00

Dear Izzy,

You are still not liking cow's milk. Daddy thinks it's because the organic one we buy is a little on the bitter side. We are trying out another brand and hopefully you'll learn to like it because you really need the fats in milk to grow and develop your brain.

You understand us more and more now and these days, Mommy and Daddy have to be careful when we speak around you. The other day, Mommy was talking to Daddy and asked him where Lulu was and you immediately crawled to the bathroom and pointed to the newly washed Lulu hung up to dry. What a smart cookie! Every time when Mommy asks Zoë if she wants to go for a walk, you immediately crawl to me and pull up on my legs asking me to carry you because you want to go for a walk too. When Daddy asks you where the plane is, you point to the sky. And a lot of times, when you see something new, you point to it and say "wha'zis?"...it sounds VERY close to "what's this?" I think I even heard you say "Zoë" the other day too!

Mommy thinks you are going to like singing because you are always humming to yourself. When you play by yourself, we hear you hum. When you "read" your books, you hum. And sometimes when we go for walks in your stroller, you take in the scenery and sing. You were singing so loudly the other day, a pedestrian in front of us stopped, waited for Mommy and you to pass by him and came up beside Mommy and said, "She's going to be singer one day." It was hilarious!

For the last 4 days, you've been super cranky and grumpy. You haven't really been sleeping well either. Mommy and Daddy are not sure why. Maybe another tooth coming out? We think so. Mommy hopes this will blow over soon because we miss the cheeky and cheerful Izzy. Mommy gets so mentally drained when all you do all day is whine but I guess you can't really help it if you are feeling uncomfortable.

Get well soon, Izzy.

Love, Mom

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2010-03-02T20:50:00.000-08:00

Dear Izzy,

It's Daddy's birthday today! You were supposed to share Daddy's birthday but because you had a mind of your own (and also maybe you don't like to share) you decided to come into the world early last year.

We went out with Godpa Dan for a small celebration dinner for Daddy's birthday. I think you had more fun than anyone else! You were so talkative and cheeky this evening, playing with Godpa Dan and the wait staff at the restaurant. You got to try duck confit, scrambled eggs with caviar and mussels in white wine sauce. Daddy is having a blast feeding you different stuff after Dr. Scott's OK. You really enjoyed the scrambled eggs and caviar! You are going to grow up with one hell of a palette. Your future boyfriends are going to have a hard time impressing you at restaurants, much to Daddy's delight!

Happy 34th birthday, Daddy! We know you've been very busy preparing for your competition in April so after it's over, we should have a big celebration!

Love, Mom

Cheeky face is at it again...

Izzy trying to blow Daddy's candle

1 year Baby Wellness Exam

2010-03-01T19:44:00.000-08:00

Hey there skinny minnie,

We went in to see Dr. Scott for your 1 year baby wellness exam today and guess what? You've only put on about 1 lb since we last saw him! Ah Ma and Mommy had a bet that you would be 18 or 19 lbs respectively but we were both WRONG! You didn't even reach the 17 lbs mark! You weighed in at 16 lbs 10 oz. (1%), measured 29 inches in length (47%) and have a head circumference of 45.25 cm (56%).

Dr. Scott has OK-ed shellfish, honey and peanut butter. Actually he says you can basically eat anything at this point now. That's awesome! Daddy cannot wait to feed you a whole bunch of stuff. Mommy has tried to feed you whole milk for the last month but you always spit it out! Dr. Scott wants you to get at least 16-20 oz. of whole milk a day but it's gonna be tough! Mommy has even started incorporating milk in your food so you don't see it. We will try to feed you more yogurt and cheese too.

Usually at the 1 year checkup, babies get 2 vaccinations (MMR & Prevnar) and a TB test. But Mommy has been reading up a lot on vaccinations lately and since the MMR is such a controversial vaccine, we have decided to postpone getting the Prevnar until we are certain that you don't have any reactions to the MMR. So today, you got the MMR vaccine and you cried a little bit more than normal because it stings (as per the nurse). Mommy really hates it when you have to get shots!

Other than your weight, Dr. Scott said that you are on point developementally-wise. We go back in a month to get the Prevnar vaccine and also the TB test. Dr. Scott also wants to monitor your weight and make sure you gain more the next time he sees you.

You better start packing on the pounds!

Love, Mom

Daddy reading to Izzy in the waiting room

Mommy trying to calm Izzy down in the doctor's office

Izzy, Izzy...where are YOU?!?!?!

2010-02-26T07:08:00.000-08:00

Isabelle!!!

You almost gave Mommy a heart attack today! I think that I have sprouted some grey hairs due to what you have done to me.

Mommy was in the kitchen fixing you some yogurt and fruit and when we looked up to find you, you were gone. So we went into your room...no Isabelle. We checked Mommy & Daddy's room...no Isabelle. We checked your bathroom...nope, not there. And we checked our bathroom...no, not there either! We went back into your room where your swing is hiding in the corner...again, we could not find you.

By this time, Mommy started panicking and calling out to you. Then we heard a little rustle....

...in the ball pit!!! You were just chilling in it, watching Ni Hao, Kai-Lan so quietly! You looked like one of the dolls in the ball pit. Mommy couldn't help but burst out laughing plus a couple drops of tears!

Please Isabelle, next time when Mommy calls out to you, please SAY something so I know where you are!

Love, Mom

All innocent-looking, pointing at me, "What's wrong, Mom?"

Happy 1st Birthday, dear Izzy!!

2010-02-24T21:37:00.000-08:00

♪ Happy Birthday to you ♫ ... ♫ Happy Birthday to you ♪ ...
♪ Happy Birthday dear Isabelle ♫... ♫ Happy Birthday to YOUUUU ♪!

Isabelle,

I think you heard this song about 20+ times today! You like it so much that everytime Mommy or Daddy starts singing it, you begin to clap excitedly.

You woke up today all smiles and extra happy...I think you knew that it was YOUR day. Mommy and Daddy had a special day all planned out for you! We took you to the L.A. Zoo. Mommy figured that it would be a great place to take you to because you LOVE to look at different animals. At home here, you are always on the look out for cats, dogs and squirrels when we take Zoë for her walks.

You had a BLAST at the zoo! We took a tram ride around the zoo and when we finally got off to check out the animals, you were really curious. We only had time to go to a few exhibits and your favorite one was the komodo dragon. We also came really close to the giraffes...they are such magnificent animals!

The zoo is so huge and we didn't get to finish looking at all the different animals. But don't worry, Mommy and Daddy got you a 1-year membership so we can return anytime! Looks like we will be spending the summer at the zoo this year!

When we got home, you were pooped and fell right asleep. And when you woke up, we had another mini-celebration! You got to eat some leftover birthday cake from your party. You couldn't wait to dig in but had to listen to another round of "Happy Birthday".

We hope you had a great 1st year and a great birthday. Although you will not remember this day, we hope that you will have lots of fun looking through all these photos when you are bigger.

Love, Mom & Dad

Happy 51 week birthday!

2010-02-23T10:03:00.000-08:00

Izzy,

Mommy has decided to let you self-wean from nursing...since we are still going to be home for the next little while, Mommy thought, why not let you stop on your terms. We both enjoy these wonderful bonding moments anyways. And yay, we've made it to almost a year of exclusive breastfeeding! Kudos to both of us...

Your vocabulary is growing fast too...you now recognize quite a few nouns. We know this because you point at these objects/people when we ask you where they are. Such a smart cookie, you are! The words you know are Zoë, Mommy, Daddy, Ah Ma, Godma, Ah Kong, cat, Hello Kitty (of course!), balloon, outside. These are the few Mommy can remember. We need to start making a running list of the words you know!

Your main form of communication is pointing because you point at what you want. At mealtime, when you are done with your main course, you point to your fruit. When you are thirsty, you point to your sippy cup. When you want to go outside, you point too. You also can gesture "come" when you want something/someone to come to you. It's awesome that you are starting to express yourself with other ways other than crying and whining!

We will be going in to see Dr. Scott next week for your 1 year checkup. Mommy can't wait to find out how much you've grown!

Love, Mom

Enjoying your frist lollipop

1st Birthday Party

2010-02-21T09:40:00.000-08:00

Dear Izzy,

Daddy threw your 1st birthday party today and boy was it fancy! Mommy almost thought he was planning your wedding or something. Daddy's theory is "Go BIG or go home" so he went all out. First, the venue was spectacular...it came all decked out with a pretty red chandelier. Eve on Nemo had a beautiful kitchen, spacious indoor space and modern outdoor patio. The was a chance of rain today but the weather held up very nicely...the sun even peeked out!

Daddy has been busy prepping for your party for the last 2 days that's why you haven't seen him at home. But now you know why because the food was impeccable! We had about 40 guests who joined us in celebrating your 1st birthday. Your little friends came as well...you had a blast!

The theme of your party was "Hello Kitty" and you were decked out in your Hello Kitty tunic dress. We had Hello Kitty candy and also a Hello Kitty cake! You ate your first lollipop and some cake today and so you were running on pure sugar all afternoon.

You absolutely loved it when everyone sang you "Happy Birthday"...even clapped to yourself when they finished. You were also serenaded by Markie, he sang you his own version of "Happy Birthday" and you were mesmerized by him! It was the cutest thing ever.

All in all, it was a great day and we are so lucky to have so many friends and family who made this day EXTRA special with their presence. You received so many gifts and now our living room has been taken over by all your new toys. You also received monetary gifts that have been deposited into your savings account for future educational use.

You will never remember this day but hopefully with all the photos we took, will be able to relive it.

Love, Mom

Izzy looking at Daddy in appreciation for the birthday party he catered

Happy 50 week birthday!

2010-02-16T15:12:00.000-08:00

You turn ONE next week, Izzy!!! Seriously, where has the time gone? Somedays Mommy feels like she is trying so hard to slow down the sands of time slipping through her fingers. But alas, you are growing up so fast in front of my eyes. Some people tell me that you are lucky that Mommy stays home with you but I think I am the lucky one. You are a different person everyday and I am so lucky to be there to experience your growth.

Last week you had a mild fever and immediately Mommy thought that you came down with a UTI again because there were no other symptoms. Thank God that after a visit to the doctor where we did a urine test, the results came back negative. Daddy thinks that you are going through another round of teething. Your night sleep for the next few nights were not very good. You were constantly waking up at around 3:30 am and not able to soothe yourself back to sleep. Last night improved a little. Hopefully you are back to your sleeping through the night schedule!

You are learning to share! You offer to share your finger food with Mommy these days. It's the cutest thing! Even though sometimes your cookie is all covered and/or soaked in drool, Mommy still takes a bite of it because you are so sweet to want to share with me!

We will be celebrating your BIG ONE this weekend! We are all busy with preparations...the day is coming too soon!

Love, Mom

Just enjoyed a cherry-flavored macaroon from Godpa Dan