Java with the Johnsons

A Minnie Party

2011-08-18T18:50:00.004+08:00

Our littlest darling turned 1 on August 8th...I'm pretty sure that was the fastest year EVER! Anyway, we just had a really small party due to some sickness that was going around...but Skye didn't seem to notice. haha! Anyway...here's some pics of her dressed up for her party...and a few of the party!

We had a difficult time taking pics of her...as she would NOT stand still!

Oh, come on...doesn't she make the cutest little Minnie Mouse EVER!!!

A family photo @ the party...

Enjoying the cake!

All finished up!!! She got a little sleepy about mid way through the party...but by the end...the caffeine and sugar had kicked in...and she was ready to party!!!

Celebrating 8 Years!

2011-07-18T21:21:00.002+08:00

We celebrated our 8th anniversary today... Can't wait to see what adventures the Lord has for us in the next year!

More Visitors

2011-07-18T09:34:00.003+08:00

Brian's folks just visited us for 3 weeks. So, here's some pics of their time here.
w/ the girls

flying...

reading with grandpa

Helping to fix Daddy's bike with Grandpa

roses from Grandpa

going for a walk

Moving...

2011-07-18T09:04:00.002+08:00

As you probably know...we moved earlier this month from Manila to the island of Mindanao. We are enjoying our small little town, all the grass and trees...but mostly the clean, fresh air! haha!
We still haven't been able to find a house...so, PLEASE be praying about that!!
Helping Daddy pack up all of our boxes!

All our stuff!

Hanging out in the NTM guest house...in between houses!

At the airport!

Waiting for our flight!

Grad

2011-07-12T11:33:00.005+08:00

July 1st...Brian and I had our formal Tagalog language study graduation. Boy, were we glad to be done...now, we're off to learn another language. ha!

Thanks for all your prayers during our time of language study in Manila!

Bran's visit

2011-07-12T10:40:00.005+08:00

I'm trying to catch up on blogging...as per usual. ha! So, this will just be pics of when my brother was here!

Hanging @ the GH

2011-07-11T08:12:00.002+08:00

I haven't blogged in a long time. I don't really have too many excuses... ha! My brother was here for 3 weeks in June. We had a week off...in which we packed up our house in Manila. We moved into our mission guest house and then, Brian's parents arrived. After that, we have our Tagalog study graduation and then, we moved to another island. We are now in the guest house on Mindanao...and are trying very hard to find a house.
Anyway...I just wanted to share these pictures.
This is the boys in the guest house when we first arrived in the philippines...they were just over 10 months old. They loved playing inside the bedside table.

And here is Skye...we're staying in the same guest house...she was around 10 1/2 months old in this picture. She also, found great joy in playing in the bedside table.

Mother's Day

2011-05-17T14:01:00.002+08:00

Finally got some Mother's Day pics...since we weren't able to get them on Mother's Day due to a little boy having a fever and a tropical storm. The batik they are wearing is what Brian brought them home from Indonesia.

None of these are very good pictures....but I love them because they show sooo much of the kiddos personality! They make me laugh.

The First Four Years!

2011-05-02T20:12:00.002+08:00

I just thought these pictures from each of Asia's birthdays were sooo cute! I couldn't resist sharing!
The cupcake themed princess birthday!

She was obsessed with Curious George!

Then, she was obsessed with the Wiggles!

Now, she is into all things girl...princesses, fancy nancy, accessories, dresses, pink, purple...

A Princess Party

2011-05-02T19:54:00.003+08:00

Our little princess turned 4 on April 28th! We got to have a little party a few days later!
Before the party, right after I finished making the cake! Had to take a picture quick in case something disastrous happened.

All ready for the party...she had been begging for a Snow White dress forever! Which is funny because she's never seen the movie or anything.

All dressed up with her castle cake!

Some of the princesses and one little prince!

Asia with a little friend!

Getting ready to blow out the candles!

Let's eat some cake!

Silly little girls!

Easter

2011-05-02T19:52:00.002+08:00

We got some pictures taken of the kids on Easter!

April - A Busy Month

2011-05-02T19:17:00.004+08:00

We have had an extremely busy month! I'm behind on blogging...so, here I go on a picture heavy update.
We went to see "Annie" put on by Faith Academy...We just happened to sit by my old dorm parents!

This is just one of the two baby showers that I was involved in this month.

Just one of my sweet baby!

All of us on a jeepney...the most common form of public transportation here!

Fun outing to McDonalds with the kiddos...60 cent ice cream sundaes!

aww...Love them both!

Riding in the back of our friend's van...prepared in case of puking! haha!

Us @ the Manila Bay front!

Here we are @ Mall of Asia...or Asia's Mall...as she calls it!

Walking @ Greenbelt...our favorite mall!

With the giant egg!

We took some friends to Chili's for some American food!

Andee's Birthday!

2011-04-12T14:15:00.002+08:00

Our first day back to classes after our 2 weeks off...was hectic. I had class from 8 to 10. Then, had language helping from 10 to 12. Quick had lunch before Brian headed off to class from 1 to 3. Then, had to make a dessert for a meeting that we were going to have @ our house later in the evening. Then, I needed to take Asia to a party. When we got home for the party we had about 45 minutes to get the kiddos to bed before our meeting.(I'll try to do a post about the meeting too if I have time!) Anyway, Monday Asia was invited to the birthday party of one of her closest Filipino friends. They have played together since we moved here. She got an invitation that said it was starting @ 4pm. But I asked my Filipino friend and she said not to go until 4:30. So, we went @ 4:30 and we were the 2nd people there. :) We waited a 1/2 hour for more people to show up before the party started. The invitation also just said Asia...so, I left the boys & Skye @ home...but of course, when we got there...they were like...where are the boys? So, I had to text Brian to bring the other kiddos. :) Anyway...Asia had a blast...but she does LOVE parties! :) Here they are checking out one of Andee's new toys. Filipinos don't normally open gifts @ the party...but apparently, if the child begs enough...they get to open one! :)

Trying to feed the kiddos spaghetti and fried chicken...while they were running around...without making a huge mess! That didn't really work very well for me! :)

Asia with her friend Andee. Hard to get Asia to look @ the camera...when they have a HUGE flat screen tv!

The birthday cake and some of the food! The black dish on the right is something called dinuguan...is made with pork blood...and normally, the insides(intestines,etc)...but this one was made with regular meat...but still with the blood. :) Yummo!

Andee trying to blow out her candle!

Brian's turn...this time with cake and ice cream! :)

A fun time was had by all! :)

NatGeo Race

2011-04-12T14:00:00.002+08:00

This past Sunday Brian ran in the National Geographic Earth Day run. This picture was on the front page of the Philippine Star newspaper!

He ran a 3k and the two other guys ran the 5k. Check out the bottom right hand corner of the picture where it says 2010. oops....whoever was in charge of that...messed up! :)

Daddy's Back

2011-04-12T13:34:00.003+08:00

After Brian was gone for a week...the kiddos were sooo happy to have him back...but honestly, that first day...they were out of control. I don't really know what it was...I guess they were excited or something. We spent a couple days doing some fun things as a family...before we started back to school. Of course, we went swimming!

Daddy is much more fun to climb on than Mommy!

We went to our favorite mall to walk around...when you live in a city of 20 million people...that's what you do for fun! :)

We ate @ our favorite Indian place!

We fed the fish @ the mall...the boys like to get a little too close to the water for comfort!

They played with Legos @ the Build store!

And of course, 3 of the kiddos ended up sick...HA! Thank God that didn't happen when Brian was gone! :)

Brian in Indonesia

2011-04-11T14:14:00.004+08:00

Just a couple pictures of Brian's time in Indonesia...He didn't have a camera...but some people there with him, took some pictures. Most of the time he was just sitting in meetings. But he was also asked to give a 30 minute devotional.

Here he's having "kopi luwak"...or civit cat poop coffee. NO JOKE!

Anyway...check out this link for more about it!

http://en.wikipedia.org./wiki/Kopi_Luwak

No Daddy

2011-04-11T13:39:00.004+08:00

Sorry for not posting sooner. But as many of you know...Brian was in Indonesia for a seminar for a week. He took the computer...so, I had no way to get pictures off the camera. Well, I survived taking care of all 4 kiddos...and actually, did more than survive. I LOVED it. It was sooo nice to just be a mom...instead of having to juggle caring for the kiddos and going to school...etc. We just hung out @ our condo...b/c we don't have a car...I can't go by myself in a taxi with 4 kiddos. Anyway, these are just some pics of when Brian was gone. We went swimming almost every day!!! Love living in the tropics. Here's the boys worn out from swimming!

Just a pic of the sweetest baby in the world!!

One day, I found this little boy reading daddy's Runner's World magazine!

Cutest Pizza Delivery Guy EVER!!!

Having a tea party!! Asia loves tea...her brother was quite adamant that he have coffee.

We played legos A LOT!

Standing up in her bed!

We read lots of books!

My little helpers making breakfast!

Silly boys!

The Rainbow Run

2011-03-28T22:44:00.005+08:00

So, Asia has been asking to run in a race for quite a while now. She knows daddy runs...and she likes to do things like daddy! :) On Sunday AM...we got up bright and early...actually, it was still dark...and went to a race. They have races here...really, really early...actually, this one started really late compared to normally...it started @ 6:30 AM. They ran in the 1k...and Asia had a blast. She walked some of it...but seriously had a good time...she keeps talking about it. Here they are before the race!

Check out Brian's number! You didn't know I married Bond...did you!?!

Fueling up before the race!

Waiting for the race to begin.

The cheerleaders!

Doing stretches before the race!

Afterwards!

Getting to eat @ McDonalds after the race...might have been more exciting than the race! :)

A little girl was VERY hungry! :)

The Man Date

2011-03-28T22:38:00.003+08:00

Since I hadn't put any pictures of Leif's "date" time...thought I would share a few. Brian took him to McDonalds for an ice cream sundae...which costs about 60 cents here. :)

St. Patty's 2 Purim & Beyond

2011-03-21T19:50:00.002+08:00

This past week was a busy one! You can see some posts below for some more pictures of this past week's events! Sorry...I don't have time to write a whole bunch right now...Enjoy the pics!
Here is Asia with her friend Asia(who does by the nickname Dream).

Asia @ a friend's birthday party!

Daddy & Skye!

Green pancakes for St. Patty's Day!

Mcdonald's date with Asia.

We went to our favorite mall.

I got to hang out with two of my childhood friends!

We celebrated Purim!

Purim

2011-03-21T19:31:00.002+08:00

Today is Purim...well, actually, it began yesterday @ sunset.
We try to celebrate holidays with the kiddos...so, that they learn about different culture, etc.
So, today...they had the story of Esther read to them several times.
They watched the Veggie Tales Esther video.
And I made some Challah bread. I didn't have time to make hamentaschen. Maybe next year!
Here we are rolling the dough...getting ready to braid it!

Our braided bread.

All done!

Reading the Esther story and eating our challah bread. They also learned about yelling whenever Haman's name is read...as to blot out his name! That's what they do when the story is read in the synagogues!

McDo Date

2011-03-21T19:22:00.002+08:00

I took Asia on a date this past weekend...She chose McDonalds. She got a hot fudge sundae!
See her tongue sticking out trying to lick up every last drop!

We brought a book to read!

Yay!

She had a blast!

St. Patty's Day

2011-03-21T19:09:00.002+08:00

We had fun celebrating St. Patrick's Day!
We colored some pictures!

We had green pancakes! The kiddos loved them!

A Bux D8!

2011-03-14T13:46:00.006+08:00

We've started taking the kiddos out for dates. Actually, Brian's been taking Asia out for a while...but we decided that the boys were old enough to start. Of course, we forgot to bring the camera for the first two. But here's some of the latest. I asked if he wanted ice cream or coffee. And he said, "Coffee!". So, we went to Starbucks! :)
They gave us a free cake pop. I only had one tiny bite...but it was pretty good!

We also got a whoopie pie! It was super delish!

He loves him some Iced Americano! No sugar added!

Pictures got blurry...because someone...I won't say who...put their fingers on the lens!

Silly boy!

So fun! Can't wait to continue this for the next 18 years!

Thai Curry Chicken & Veggies

2011-03-10T12:39:00.005+08:00

I got this recipe from my mom and I've made it many times. We love it...even the kiddos! Hope you do too!

Thai Curry Chicken & Vegetables
2 TBSP. Canola Oil. (I use EVOO.)
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. ground ginger
1/2 tsp. cayenne (I cut this way back b/c Asia doesn't like spicy food.)
1 tsp. 5-spice powder
1/2 to 1 tsp. salt (I only use 1/2 tsp.)
1 TBSP. soy sauce
Stir the above spices in the hot oil.

Add:
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts(cut into 1-inch pieces). (I only use 1 pound.)

Cook & stir for 5 to 8 minutes...until coated with seasonings, lightly browned & no longer pink in the center.

Stir in:
1 cup of chicken broth
3 tsp. curry powder
2 TBSP rice vinegar
1 can coconut milk
1 cup baby-cut carrots(I just cut up regular carrots.)

Heat to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 20 to 25 minutes. Stirring occasionally, until carrots are tender.

Stir in:
2 cups frozen broccoli florets(I use fresh...today I used cauliflower b/c I had it.)
8 oz. water chestnuts(sliced)(You can leave these out if you don't like them. My sister hates them.)

Heat to boiling. Cook 3 to 5 minutes until vegetables are crisp tender. (I cook this longer or even add these sooner because I like my veggies a little more tender...as it's easier for the kids to eat.)

Serve over rice.

Today I added 2 mangos to this...and it was AWESOME!!!

BTW...I take no credit for the above photo...I stole it off some website. Just so you know! :)

Peas in a Pod

2011-03-07T13:32:00.004+08:00

When I found out I was pregnant with twins I wondered how Asia would get along with her siblings...since they are only 18 months apart...would they play well together, etc. You know...just the typical stuff a parent wonders about. Well, I will definitely say that they don't always get along...but they are like 3 peas in a pod. It's like having triplets...without all the hard work! :) We normally have to tell people that they are just twins and Asia is the older sister...because people think they are triplets. :) Anyway...Praise the Lord I only had twins! :) As they have gotten older...it's really fun to see them all play together.
BTW...they are pretty great with Skye too. They are always very interested in what is going on with her.
Anyway...nothing too exciting going on here. Just plugging away @ language study...and enjoying the kiddos.
Here's some pics of this past week.
This past week I was getting ready to leave for class...and these sweet faces came to say goodbye! Don't the boys look hilarious!!!

Love this one!

3 Peas in a Pod

Brian was feeding Skye...and the other 3 went and got some of Asia's dolls and play food, bowls and spoons...and fed them while Skye was having her meal.

Just one last one of our sweet little pumpkin!

Anyway...The boys have taught Asia some things...like biting, shoving, hitting...ummm...can't really think of anything very good that they've taught her. :) And Asia's taught them...well, about princesses and high heels. :) haha I'm sure it will all work on in the end. :)

Reading, Swimming & Biting

2011-02-28T09:06:00.002+08:00

This past week was a busy one.
On Tuesday, I went to the American Women's Bazaar with a friend that lives in our Condos. I had a great time and brought home some Indian food for Brian. Yummy!
We ended up taking of Friday and also, Monday of this week...to catch up on some things that needed to be done. Brian cleaned out our storage area. We finished writing thank yous. I made granola and yogurt. Brian fixed the boys drawers that they had destroyed...lets see how long that lasts. I cleaned off our desk...but I'm pretty sure that you wouldn't be able to tell. Anyway...we've been working hard! Still hoping to make a dent in the Taxes today. :)
We also decided that we wanted to start taking the kids out on some "dates". Just individual time with each of them. Of course, we forgot to bring the camera... But, I took Leif out to Starbucks. I ordered him a milk and got a decaf iced americano for myself...and what do you think he wanted to drink...my coffee. :) Brian took Asia to McDonalds(or as they call it here...McDo). They got ice cream sundaes. Anyway...we've decided to take one kid out a weekend...if possible. Just to have some time with each of them...and to give them our undivided attention...
Anyway...Here's some pics of our week! Mag-Enjoy!
The kiddos reading before bedtime! The boys are finally starting to sit still for a few minutes...so that we can read to them.

I got these rash guards @ the women's bazaar. It's almost summer here...(the hottest months of the year)...and we will be swimming a lot! Don't want these whities to get too much sun! :)

Skye had her very first dip in the pool. It was actually, really cold! But she liked it!

Daddy and the girls!

Skye's already getting into mischief with her brothers...here all three of them are under the couch!

And just so you know what I mean when I say the boys are horrific biters...and they have turned Asia into one too. Here is Leif with this past weeks bite marks...check out his shoulder and forearm... Those are not shadows!!! I believe he also has one on his back and the side of his face. This is after he just recovered from the ones on his nose and upper lip. :)

But, before you go and feel all sorry for him...don't worry...he gives as good as he gets. :)

Hopefully, they'll grow out of this stage soon...cuz it's been going on for about 1 1/2 years now. :)

"Normal" Days

2011-02-20T13:27:00.008+08:00

Well, sometimes I don't know what to write. I want to keep people updated...but honestly, nothing that exciting is going on...mostly we're just trying to survive. haha Brian and I study really hard...Brian for 8 hours a day and I for 6. On top of that...taking care of the 4 kiddos keeps us really busy. Anyway...I'm, actually, trying to get some pictures taken to do a blog about our studying, etc...it's kind of hard to get pictures that are interesting when mostly all we do is study Tagalog from morning til night. haha

Anyway, these are some pics from this "normal" week. Enjoy!

The sisters hanging out.

Chillin' with the bros!

Asia's been going to ballet on Saturday afternoons. It's been a great experience for her. Not only does she love dancing...but it's been a great time of social interaction...plus, a time for her to learn about being in "school". Listening to instructions and doing a group activity for an hour has been really good for her. But the truth is...I have learned a lot about Filipino culture during that hour. I never really knew about or understood the social class system before Asia started ballet. Anyway...I've met several parents and have had some interesting conversations while we wait for our daughters.

My Sweet Little Princess got her first two teeth this week! Of course, she was still perfectly sweet the whole time. :)

Brian & I have seen this sign several times...And while we know what they mean...the way it is said makes us laugh. :)

Here we are @ church. It's always a crazy time!

We've been doing a lot of swimming the last few days as summer is coming and it is getting quite hot here again!

Here is Skye just chilling out while we're swimming...Hoping to find her a swimsuit soon...cuz she loves it when we put her feet in!

Oh, and by the way...Skye started pulling herself up to standing this week!

Skye's 1st Food

2011-02-16T14:15:00.005+08:00

Well, Skye has finally tasted food. She has actually, eaten paper before...but that was on her dad's watch. :) hehe I always go through this huge decision making process over what my kiddos first food should be. For Asia it was bananas and she didn't have any grains until she was a year old. Then, the boys had some kind of cereal. With Skye, I wanted to have time to figure out what she should start with...but alas...I didn't have any. So, I grabbed a box of cereal and fed her. Oh, well...I had good intentions. :)
I'm not sure who is more excited about Skye trying food...her brothers were very interested in the whole process!

She honestly isn't a big fan...which doesn't shock me...since I had a horrible time with food when I was pregnant with her.

"I'm not sure about this!"

" Really, do you need to do this to me?!?"

From Super Bowl to Valentines

2011-02-15T14:38:00.006+08:00

What a great week!
Let me just say...this past week started off in an amazing way! My team won the Super Bowl! So very thankful to be rid of Brett Farve. I think I might be winning my husband over to the Packers...I think he's seeing the error of his ways in being a Vikings fan. And believe me...I know...how did we ever end up together. Two super competitive people...one who cheers for the Vikings and the smart one...who cheers for the Pack! :)

February 8th...we celebrated Skye's 1/2 birthday!

On Saturday, I took her to the doctor for her 6 month check up...she is a tiny little thing. Weighing in @ 12.78 pounds...and being about 2 feet tall. haha She got her shots and is really such a sweet thing...even though I know I say that all the time...it's sooo true.

Saturday also brought a small Valentine's party for all the MK's living in our complex.

We celebrated Valentine's Day on Sunday as we knew we would be way to busy on Monday. The kiddos made these cute pictures.

And I made some super yummy pasta with Puttanesca Sauce. One of my goals this year is to challenge myself more in the kitchen...using ingredients and methods of cooking that I never have before. Puttanesca Sauce is super flavorful...and had two ingredients that I have never used before...Capers and Anchovies. As someone might think that those are expensive ingredients...the prices weren't too bad here...and making a nice meal @ home was WAY cheaper than eating out!

I also made an Angel Food Cake...but I wasn't really happy with the way that turned out. :(
Brian and I had a nice evening together...just relaxing and watching a movie.

Monday's are always extremely busy for us. I have class @ 8 AM...when I get home...I have to feed Skye. Then, I make lunch for that day...and also, Tuesday's lunch...because, Tuesday is an extremely busy day @ our house. We eat lunch...then, Brian goes to class by 1 PM.

Anyway...
The boys are back into a poop painting phase. 6 of the last 7 days we've had poop on the floor, etc. Oh, and did I mention just taking their diapers off to peep all over the floor, etc. I think they are done having naptime. I just can't take it. Today, I had Asia stay in their room with them. She just called me everytime they took off their diapers. So, that helped...we still ended up with pee/poop on the floor...but not the messes of the previous days. However, it also meant that no one took a nap...but @ least I didn't have the mess.

Anyway...I posted the pic above...because...they really are sweet boys...when they are asleep. :) Just kidding...I know it's a phase and this too shall pass. But right now...I'm just trying to survive it. I'm serious, if it's not poop/pee...they are literally trashing the furniture in their room. They have broken every drawer in their wardrobe thing. They are super destructive!

Anyway...trying to laugh when I can...and enjoy them...but also just trying to survive them.

That was my week! Sorry if I totally disgusted you...but that's my life.

A Valentine's Treasure Hunt

2011-02-12T19:34:00.002+08:00

We had a little Valentine exchange and heart hunt for the MK's (missionary kids) that live in our condos. The kiddos had a blast...and got all sugared up. So, that's is always fun. :)
Asia waiting for the festivities to begin.
One of the mom's organized a little "treasure" hunt...they had a blast searching for the hidden hearts.

The kiddos with their valentines! Very, very excited...now they are all hung on our wall...except for the cute lollipop bouquet ones...cuz well, they wanted to eat those. :)

Here's the crew!

We also got to have yummy strawberry shortcake! I have to admit...I ate the kids helpings and gave them lollipops. haha I'm guessing in a few years I won't be getting away with that. :)

Big Boy Beds & Chinese New Year

2011-02-10T13:15:00.005+08:00

Here I am playing catch up...AGAIN! :)
Last week, Skye pushed herself up to sitting.
And the boys slept in a big boy bed for the first time! We were able to borrow a mattress...but they still don't have a frame or anything...so, it's just on the floor. But they were very excited about it.

I think this is the farthest they have ever slept apart! :)

We, also, celebrated Chinese New Year. We got this outfit about 7 years ago while we were living in Taiwan...before we had any little kiddos ourselves. Asia's been wearing it for a couple of years now...but it finally fits her.

All the kiddos wearing red in honor of Chinese New Year.The kiddos also colored some Chinese New Year pictures.

Last week, we also played games one night with some friends. It was a night filled with lots of laughter. And anyone that knows Brian and I...knows that we are SUPER competitive! But we were thrilled to have people to play games with.

Last Sunday, we also celebrated Brian's birthdday. We didn't do anything special...but Brian got to sleep in until 7:30 AM. Which is a HUGE deal @ our house. :)

Way-Back Wednesday: 1/2 Birthdays

2011-02-09T12:46:00.002+08:00

Yesterday, my littlest princess turned 6 months old. As every parent out there has experienced...all you can think about is how quickly those months flew by. Skye is such a sweet, easy baby...which of course may change the more mobile she gets. :)
On my kids first 1/2 birthday...I make 1/2 a cake and we celebrate their life...or in the case of the boys...lives. :) Because of this I have pics of all my kids when they were exactly the same age. It was really fun for me to look back and realize how much they all look alike. They definitely are siblings...no denying that!
Enjoy!Asia's 1/2 birthday...October 28, 2007.

Leif & Slater's 1/2 birthday...April 27, 2009.

Skye's 1/2 birthday...February 8, 2011

Of course, Brian & I also noticed ourselves...in various weight gains/losses. :)

Crazy Days

2011-02-01T14:40:00.002+08:00

Well, it's the first day of February...and Brian is STILL sick. He's had a cold for a couple of weeks...and every time he seems to be getting better...he gets worse again. Hopefully, he get better soon. It sure does make me appreciate him even more...even though I really, really am thankful for ALL that he does... It's just a good reminder when I have to do it all by myself!
Our precious baby really started crawling...well, army crawling. She gets up on her knees and rocks too...so, it's only a matter of time before it's for real! Then, we'll really be busy! :)

The kiddos love to play outside. On this particular day...poor Asia got stuck with her brother's shoes once we got out there because her brother decided that he just had to have the boots that she was wearing. :) That little patch of grass behind the kiddos is all we have. We are soo looking forward to getting out of this concrete jungle!

And I finally got new glasses. I haven't had a new prescription in almost 3 years...so, it was nice to get that done. This is what Brian looked like while I was getting my eyes checked. :) No wonder he isn't feeling good... :) He rocks is such a fantastic dad!

As for me...I had an awesome class time today! My teacher really made me use my brain! Causitive is kicking me in the pants....so, much to remember!!!

Skye Army Crawling

2011-01-27T13:01:00.002+08:00

My little 5 month old has really taken off...she was doing the inch worm thing until yesterday morning...now this morning she has the full on Army Crawl thing down! She is such as sweet baby!

Tangled

2011-01-26T14:29:00.003+08:00

Last night I took Asia to her very first movie @ the theater. We saw "Tangled". Which I think teaches something about it being ok and normal to rebel against your parents...but that's a completely different blog post I think. :) It was cute and Asia LOVED it.
Here's Asia...Wanted!

Here's Asia with her good friend Alaena. Alaena and her mom came with us. It was also Alaena's first time @ the theater.

Asia & Alaena in the huge seats! They both ended up in our laps.

Asia couldn't take her eyes off the screen. She kept saying things like, "It's as big as the wall." And, "That's the biggest tv that I've ever seen." We don't have a tv...only a tiny little portable dvd player...so, it doesn't take much to beat a 5 or 6 inch screen. HA!

Asia was thrilled! She loved the movie. And afterwards said, "Mommy, that was a cool movie!" Have I mentioned how much I love this age. Still excited over the little things...

Anyway, it was a cute movie, a great time with friends, and an awesome time with my daughter! Can't beat a night like that!

Back to Work

2011-01-20T13:36:00.002+08:00

We started back into Tagalog language study on Monday. I'm happy to report that we're still alive. :) Of course, Brian started getting sick on Sunday...and by Monday, was quite miserable. On top of that...Slater had something weird going on with his eye...which the doctor thinks is just a virus. Slater also started running a fever on Monday...and by Tuesday, Leif also had one. They both seem fine now...and Slater's eye seems to be getting better. Brian's still not feeling well...but it's just a cold...so, he should continue to improve.
Here we are celebrating our last night of freedom. I made one of our faves...Creme Brulee...and Brian made yummy lattes. Love having a stove top espresso maker and aerolatte!

This pretty much sums up Monday morning. Mommy had to be @ class by 8 AM. I felt bad for Brian as he had to stay home with some VERY grouchy kiddos! It's always hard for them to adjust back to Mommy being gone for part of the morning.

My two little princesses!

Had to share this picture of my littlest pumpkin! Just had her bath and was ready for bed!

And finally today...it's a great day...because my two little men decided to take a nap without too much of a fight! They still insist on sleeping together...now all we need is a bigger bed. :)

Cassoulet with Lots of Vegetables

2011-01-15T22:18:00.003+08:00

http://content.markbittman.com/recipes/cassoulet-with-lots-of-vegetables

Ok...Seriously, you have to try out this recipe.

I take no credit for finding it. Brian found it in one of his Runner's World magazines...and asked me to make it. He knows I really like Mark Bittman...so it didn't take much arm twisting. :)

I made my own Italian Sausage (not in casings) and used that. It was delicious and actually, tasted better the next day.

We ate it over rice...but it's definitely a stand alone recipe too.

A Greenbelty Day

2011-01-13T20:10:00.005+08:00

Well, our staycation is almost over...we go back to school on Monday. We've mostly hung around the house...once we went to Mall of Asia on the other side of the city and another day we went to a little zoo. So, we decided to go to have one last hurrah.
We live in a city of 20 million people...with really only one park to speak of...and it's around an hour away from us. Which may not seem like a big deal to you...but for us that means sitting in a super hot taxi, in crazy traffic, with kids NOT in carseats...oh, and did I mention that the kids also get car sick very easily?!?
So, the thing to do here is go to the mall. There are more malls in Manila than I can count. But we have a favorite. It's called Greenbelt. It's kind of a weird mall. With the buildings all around and in the middle of them...some Koi ponds and fountains, etc. Anyway...we like it and the kiddos like it.
By the way...our house is ALWAYS crazy. But we really have been enjoying the kiddos lately. I mean...they're loud and often naughty...but they have been saying the funniest things.
For example...one of the first things Asia said to me this AM was..."I had the craziest dream." She didn't tell me what is was....but it was crazy. :)
Anyway...here are some pics of our day...Apparently, we missed taking pictures of feeding the fish!
Walking around...having a snack...huge carabao sculptures...in front of a Catholic Church right in the middle of the mall.

Now...it's Skye's turn for a snack...

Then, we had lunch... They have a Chili's at this mall...and they have the best service of any restuarant we've been to here in the Philippines. They brought Asia a tiara and the boys little cars to play with. Unfortunately, they were "out of stock" of chips...so, we couldn't have bottomless chips and salsa. So, we decided to try their calamari instead.

Which brings me to my next favorite thing Asia said today..."I LOVE calamari." BTW...the boys loved it too. What can I say...my kiddos are quite the gourmets!

Here we are...Skye is having a little nap! We had a wonderful time and really yummy burgers! Which is a big deal here...because beef is really expensive....and normally, doesn't reallly taste like beef...if that makes any sense. We hadn't been to an American restuarant in 6 months!!!

Sometimes the kiddos ride like this...

And sometimes they walk like this...

They have fountains there...this is one of them....and YES, the kids got SOAKED! :) But they had a blast.

The boys love them some iced Americano! haha The kiddos played in the fountain...while Brian and I (and the boys) enjoyed some iced Americanos.

This is another one of the fountains.

When Leif saw this mannequin....he started yelling..."PRINCESS! PRINCESS!" No joke!

Another Leifism of the day..."GRASS! GRASS! GRASS!"

My poor boys have been living in the concrete jungle of Manila for the last 15 months...grass is really rare...and if they have it...as you can see...you're not allowed to walk on it. They are typical boys...they crave rocks, dirt, grass, trees, mud, etc!

Anyway...When we finally got home after a really crazy taxi ride...on which Brian who never gets carsick...started feeling queasy...(so, imagine how the rest of us felt)...we went swimming...and played outside for a bit.

The kiddos were EXHAUSTED! Hopefully, they sleep well tonight!

Everybody Loves Pasta

2010-12-30T12:47:00.003+08:00

I can tell I'm having Christmas break...I finally have time to blog.

We love pasta. The kiddos love pasta.

Just wanted to share a couple of recipes that we've enjoyed. I got this Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe from a fellow twin mommy. And the other one is from Allrecipes. I normally have to make a lot of substitutions to my recipes...because things aren't available here...or are just really expensive. But we still really love these recipes. Hope you try them!

Cajun Chicken Pasta
3/4 pound rotini, cooked according to package (I normally use penne b/c I like it better & I use the full pound...cuz really what are you going to do with the other part of the package.)
2 Tablespoons Butter
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed (I use 1/2 to 1 pound.)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bunch green onion, chopped
2 Tablespoons cajun seasoning, or to taste
1 teaspoon ground pepper
1 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne) (I cut this way back b/c Asia isn't a fan of spice.)
8 oz. heavy cream (I use all purpose cream in a tetra pack b/c we don't have heavy cream here.)
1 green bell pepper, julienned
1 red bell pepper, julienned (I use a couple of a local type of green pepper.)
8 oz. fresh mushrooms, quartered (I use canned mushrooms b/c we can't normally get fresh.)
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated (I normally just use the Kraft kind.)

Cook rotini according to package directions. Drain; set aside. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken; cook, stirring frequently, until brown, about 6 to 8 minutes. Add garlic, onions, cajun or creole seasoning and ground black and red peppers. Add bell peppers and mushrooms; stir to combine. Cover & cook 5 minutes. Uncover; stir in cream and let simmer another 2 minutes. Stir in parmesan cheese. Remove sauce from heat, stir in cooked pasta and serve immediately.

Penne with Chicken & Pesto
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Penne-with-Chicken-and-Pesto/Detail.aspx
We actually, don't get to eat this much...because pesto is sooo expensive here & the spinach is really weird...so, you can't really make your own. But it is soo delish!
I think this calls for way too much butter and olive oil...since pesto tends to be quite oily. I just just a tiny bit of olive oil.
I also use the tetra packs of all purpose cream for this.

Anyway...I'm always on the look out for good recipes. So, if you have any good ones please share!

Merry Christmas Eviction

2010-12-26T15:57:00.003+08:00

As many of you have heard by now...our landlord has decided that we need to move out. The story is really too long for me to post here...and frankly...I just don't have the time. It's not the kind of news that you want to receive 2 days before Christmas...but we did.

While we are not sure why God allowed this to happen... We do believe that God is good and is very much in control. Since God only allows what is best for us in order that we will be conformed to the image of Christ...we need to learn all that we can from our situation.

And truly...it's completely about perspective. In the last couple of weeks, two good friends have been having major health issues...one with melanoma and the other might possibly have MS. We have fellow missionaries who have kids with major health problems...one with a brain tumor and another with a bladder problem that she was born with. This is just to name a few.

On top of that...almost everyday we see multiple people that don't have a homes at all. They are just sleeping on the side of the road or under bridges, etc. This often includes little children... They don't have a house, bed, bathroom, or even food to eat.

We realize how easy we do have it...we will have a place to stay (even though we don't know where that is quite yet). And right now...our kids health is great!

So, we are trying to maintain a good perspective of this! And praying that we learn all that the Lord wants to teach us through all of this.

Please be praying that the Lord will show us where to live for the next six months and the move will go as smoothly as possible. It's not something that we look forward to with 4 kids 3 and under.

We Are Still Alive

2010-12-07T13:12:00.003+08:00

We are still alive...I haven't blogged since Skye was 2 days old. I almost feel bad... :)

I lost my helper about a week and a half after we brought our new little bundle of joy home. Brian went back to language study when Skye was 3 weeks old...and I went back when she was 4 weeks old. Brian studies 40+ hours a week and I do 30. On top of that, living here just takes sooo much longer. All our cooking needs to be done from scratch, etc. Oh, and did I mention that we have 3 preschoolers. :) Asia is 3 1/2 and the boys are 2. Skye is 4 months old tomorrow. They sure are fun...but they don't ever stop.

So, honestly...we are just trying to survive over here!

We get a break starting December 17th for a month. We are really looking forward to it...as we really need one. But, also, hopefully, we'll get our thank yous done...and a newsletter sent out...and be able to check some other things off our mile long "to do" list!

Skye Avalon

2010-08-10T14:49:00.003+08:00

Just a quick update...so you know that she arrived... Hopefully, more pictures & stories to come...as I have time...but don't count on it. haha
Skye Avalon arrived on Sunday, August 8th @ 1:27 PM. She weighed 6 pounds 14 ounces and measured 20 inches long. We got to come home after 24 hours...so that has been really nice.
Here she is at 1 day old.

Brian caught on camera the moment that Asia realized that there were now 4 of them.

I know the boys outfits are outrageous...they had just gotten up from nap and this was their first time seeing their sister. Anyway...that's the only way that we've figured out how to keep them from taking their diapers off and poop from flying everywhere during nap time.

37 Weeks

2010-07-26T13:14:00.002+08:00

I was 37 weeks on Friday...so here is a picture. Those boys sure stretched out my belly for me...but at least it isn't even 1/3 of the weight of last time.

My Little Men

2010-07-23T13:38:00.003+08:00

My little men are almost 21 months old... They keep us busy...and are really sooo much fun!

I love you forever!

I'll like you for always!

As long as I'm living my babies...you'll be!

My Little Chef

2010-07-09T13:16:00.002+08:00

I've been wanting to do some more cooking with Asia...since she loves it...and always wants to stir, etc. I found mini pizza crusts here...so we decided to make individual pizzas. Asia was thrilled.
We made ham & pineapple pizza.

This is what the boys did the whole time we were getting the pizza ready! They were not impressed with being left out. I just am not brave enough yet to get all three of them going in the kitchen with me. Soon, little men! Soon!

Very happy with herself!

Saturdays

2010-07-01T13:48:00.003+08:00

We try to keep Saturdays as our family day...finding fun things to do...and just spending time with the kiddos. Typically, that means making a big yummy breakfast that we don't normally have time to do during the week. Going for a swim in the AM. Lunch together...either leftovers or sometimes for extra special...we order pizza. Then, the kiddos have a nap... Asia has ballet class in the afternoon...normally, I (Brooke) just take her...because the boys are still sleeping. Brian hangs with the boys after they wake up...and normally that means taking them outside for them to run some energy off. Asia & I get home and it's time for supper. Then, baths and bedtime. Anyway...that's a regular Saturday for us.
On this particular Saturday...the boys were all in need of haircuts...

They hate to wear the cape....so they get hair all over them. Gross!

Then, we went for a swim!

On this Saturday...we decided that we'd all go to Asia's ballet class...since Daddy doesn't normally get to see her in class. So, we left home early and ate out.

Have to say this was one VERY proud moment for Brian & I... She's been "using" chopsticks for a long time...but finally really got the hang of it!

We've been able to just buy one meal for all three of the kids to share...but those days are apparently over for us...those boys sure do eat!

Yummy noodles that we all love!

Asia is really improving in her ballet class! By the way...they rock back & forth on their bellies...while holding their legs like that!

Milk...it Does the Body Good

2010-06-15T12:54:00.003+08:00

It's kind of funny the things that you realize later you had taken forgranted. Like..."Honey, can you pick up a gallon of milk on the way home?" Like having 5 gallons in my fridge at any given time... Like even having real milk!
Having 3 little ones...and one pregnant mama...we go through a TON of milk. So, I thought I would show you what that looks like here in the Philippines.
First, we order a 25 kilo sack of powdered milk! Or about 55 pounds. Actually, we just started doing this because we figured out that it is much cheaper than buying it at the grocery store. This is imported from Australia...and is full fat. Not like the non-fat powdered milk in the USA. We have to find a way to store it...in such a way that is waterproof...because it is extremely humid here...and in a way that ants, cockroaches, mice, etc...can't get in.

We go through at least two of these pitchers everday! Which means that every night before we go to bed...we need to make sure we have it made up. Because we have figured out that powdered milk really isn't that bad...especially if cold...

Brian & I grew up on powdered milk...so it doesn't really bother us... It's not our favorite...and we don't crave it...but it's not horrible. And thankfully, our kids are sooo young...that they don't know any different.

Real milk is available here in the Philippines...but is very expensive! They also have imported milk...in boxes...which doesn't have to be put in the fridge until it is opened...but I don't like the taste of it...I swear I can taste the box that it comes in.
Anyway...so, that's just a peek into our life... Our new normal! :)

30 Weeks

2010-06-07T13:23:00.000+08:00

Here we are at 30 weeks! Getting to the end!

A Wiggly Party

2010-04-25T20:19:00.009+08:00

Well, Asia's 3rd birthday is coming up on Wednesday...and since we both have classes, etc...that day...we planned her party for Saturday. There are 16 students in language study at the same time as us...so we invited all of them and their kids, our director and our teachers. Somewhere between 40 to 50 people. It was crazy but fun. You may be wondering why I am starting this post with a picture of an unfinished cake...you will soon see. Please take note of how nice and straight this cake is...

A finished cake...and with only slight leaning.

Still looking pretty...and straight.

And then...after about an hour...this began to happen. I believe this was caused by a combination of things...I used a deliciously moist but softer type cake... That in addition to the heat & humidity here...equals...DISASTER. Since I was preparing for the party long into the night...I considered waking Asia up at this point...so she could see her cake...cuz I wasn't sure it would make it until morning.

Brian tried telling me that we were having a Wiggly Party...so, it was ok to have a Wiggly Cake too...but at 1 AM...and about 10 to 12 hours of cake making...it wasn't very funny.
Asia dressed like Captain Feathersword & her wiggly cake.

Here we are, first thing in the AM...it made it through the rest of the night...just needed to go about 5 more hours.

The little Princess at the party...a friend gave her goggles for her birthday...and she was beyond thrilled!

Playing in the kiddie pool.

Swimming in the big pool.

A TON of pizza...thankfully here...they have these wonderful Buy1, Get1 cards...we had TONS of pizza leftover...but I knew I needed to give some to the guards and janitors here where we live, etc... So, some how...we only ended up with one pizza left for ourselves. We also served fresh veggies...and OF COURSE, fruit salad...YUMMY! YUMMY!

Sorry for the bad light...but there is the little Miss...chowing on her pizza...Yes, we were able to coax them out of the pool for a moment!

The little Miss with her birthday cake...it made it downstairs without falling...but we didn't know how long it would make it! :)

Some of the kiddos waiting to see if the cake was going to fall. haha It was looking pretty bad by this point!

Daddy and the Princess...with the disaster of a cake!

And believe it or not...it actually, NEVER fell completely over...just leaned horribly bad. :)

Asia had to have the purple layer. :)

Anyway...so there it is...I learned my lesson about trying to make a giant cake here in the tropics...but overall...I think everyone had a great time...

I know Asia did...and she was the one the party was for.

As always...there are loads more pictures on Facebook...so head over there...to see them.

1st Ballet Class

2010-04-10T19:18:00.003+08:00

We decided to enroll Asia in a ballet class for 3 to 5 year olds. She is just 2 1/2 weeks away from turning 3. Today was her very first day of class. I wasn't sure how she would do...she's never been involved in something like that. Or been to school...we've only ever put her in Sunday School a couple of times(because we're teaching her to sit in church...which by the way...she can do for 2+ hours).
She was very excited with the prospect of going...but when she got into the class...she was pretty overwhelmed. It took her about 40 minutes to warm up to the idea...then, she really got into it...and seemed to enjoy herself.
Before going to class...I showed her some videos on youtube to give her an idea of what she would be doing. Let me just say that I think that classes in the US for this age group greatly differ from here. All the videos we saw were of fun stuff...little girls prancing around, etc. Here...they were already teaching the positions. :) Well, maybe parents only posted the cute little prancing!
All ready for class...and very excited!

Princess Cheeseball Ballerina

Little Miss is by far the youngest and smallest. :) You could tell the vast majority of the girls had been in ballet before... Hopefully, she'll catch on quickly...and learn to follow the teacher's movements! The teacher was very nice...and told me not to worry...that she would catch on very quickly. She was already telling Asia about the recital in December!

Lately, Easter Break, Potty Training

2010-04-06T13:51:00.002+08:00

Nothing too exciting to report...
Asia asked me to write: A is for Asia. So there it is. Lil Princess loves to color.

Chilling with my girl at an Indian restuarant that we like...even though it gives me horrible heartburn right now.

Silly boys playing in sisters room!

Swimming.

So, we had a great Easter...but we didn't take any pictures of the kids...I know we're horrible parents... But it could have something to do with potty training. Started potty training Asia last Thursday...and I have to say...It's going great. The first 2 days were brutal...but since then...it's been going awesome. So, hopefully, she won't regress once this baby is born. Anyway...The potty training made our Easter break...not like a break at all...but I know in the end...it will pay off...Literally, so we don't have 4 kids in diapers. haha

Anyway...trying to write this with Asia perched on my lap...so it probably doesn't make any sense.

1/2 Way

2010-03-29T13:41:00.003+08:00

Well, last week was the 20 week mark...it's always nice to get there...and know that you are 1/2 way done. Anyway...so, we'll be meeting this little girl in August...and we're not even close to naming her. haha

Big, Fat, Juicy Burger

2010-03-24T19:18:00.002+08:00

So, I have been craving a big, fat, juicy burger... You know...the kind that you can't even get your mouth around...you have to lift with two hands...etc. It's kind of funny...since, I'm actually, not really a burger kind of person. But, I have really been craving one... So, it totally made my day...when we went to a mall on the other side of the city last Saturday...and we found a TGIF. My dear hubby, let us splurge...and treated me to what I had been craving. Unfortunately, we didn't get any pictures of me eating my gargantuan burger...we were too busy stuffing our faces!
Anyway...here's some pictures of before the food arrived...
Slater and Daddy

Daddy and an uncooperative Leif

Little Miss and her art work...

And Leif decides to ham it up...

Balance

2010-03-22T13:56:00.002+08:00

Well, I don't have any pictures...I don't have a scanner...and frankly...most people don't even know what they are looking at in an ultrasound anyway...
So, I'll just tell you. We're having another girl.
Apparently, things will be even and Asia and I won't have to fight for our lives. :)
I was happy to see that everything looked great...I just wanted a healthy baby...and didn't care if we were having a boy or a girl.

Conjoined Twins?!?

2010-03-19T13:42:00.003+08:00

I know...I know...totally obsessed with taking pictures of the boys sleeping. It's just been cute and funny lately. Besides...it's also about the only time that they are still. :)

Trying to do a better job...

2010-03-17T13:54:00.002+08:00

Trying to do better...but don't have time for more than pictures right now.
Asia playing dress up with a little friend.

At a friend's birthday party...

Just love this picture!!!

Enjoying a Filipino dessert...Halo-Halo.

We got the chance to spend 2 hours with our friend Mary Ann and her daughter Micah...they are from our home church in Virginia...it was sooo good to see them.

Maybe I should get them a bigger bed?!? Nah... By the way...Slater has his own bed...but, apparently he just doesn't like to sleep by himself.

Not Even Going To Try To Catch Up

2010-02-25T20:24:00.003+08:00

Ok...Well, don't be mad...but I decided that there is NO WAY that I'm going to catch up with 3 months worth of blogging...so, I'm not even going to try. I'm just going to start from here.
We are staying really busy with language study and loving it. Brian does 40+ hours a week...and I do 30+. Plus, taking care of 3 toddlers and everything else... It's pretty crazy around here most of the time.
We're expecting our 4th baby in August... So, that takes a lot of my energy. But on a sort of funny note... Guess what my food aversions are this pregnancy... RICE & FILIPINO FOOD. How inconvenient is that...hello...I live in the Philippines.
The kids are great...they sure keep us hopping.
I'll try to keep up here...but no promises...unfortunately, blogging has to be one of the very first things to go...
You can always check out Facebook for more pics...cuz it's easier to upload to there.
The Little Rascals

Asia loves to do crafts.

The Little Princess-Ballerina

Asia in her big girl bed.

The Crew...Asia dressed herself...and yes, it's like 85+ degrees in our house.

A Thing 1 & Thing 2 Birthday Party

2009-11-26T09:02:00.003+08:00

Well, on October 27th...We celebrated Leif and Slater's 1st Birthday. It was just a small party. Our helper, a guy who was building some stuff for us at the time and us...but we had a good time. I had brought some stuff from the USA to do a Dr. Suess themed party...cuz I didn't think I would have time to get stuff together once I got here...and I was right.
Asia all ready to party!!!

Me with the kiddos.

Our precious birthday boys!

Leif dug into the cake with his hands...but Slater...didn't want to get his hands dirty...He just picked up his plate. Silly boys.

Slater

Leif

Asia chowing down.

I finally took the plates away...and Slater got messy. They loved it.

Our Little Princess

2009-11-26T08:49:00.001+08:00

Asia at the Bucks...with her Starbucks Milk

Cheers!

Going on a Date with Daddy!

The Two Cheeseballs

Asia dressed up for Halloween!

65% Chance of Rain

2009-09-29T20:18:00.006+08:00

The forecast said 65% chance of rain. That 65% turned into the worst flooding in Manila in four decades.For the last two days we have been evacuating missionaries and NTM workers stranded by the flooding, and trying to clean up what's left of their homes.

Two of the women who work for NTM were trappeed on top of their houses, and watched as their neighborhoods were devastated by the two-story deep water. One of the ladies had about 100 of her neighbors with her on the roof.

A group of NTM missionaries tried all night with a 4-wheel drive and inflatable boat to rescue one of the women stuck with her children. They finally got to her and she and the children are ok.
This was right in front of where we are staying. The water was only up to the nozzles, so we had a lot less flooding than other areas. Thankfully the NTM Guest House is on high ground and was mostly undamaged.

That's our bank. It gives a new meaning to liquidity of assets.

Displaced people from one of the hardest-hit areas. Right next to them is an elementary school that has been turned into a refugee camp. Over 246 people have died and about 320,000 are in shelters. About 2 million people had their homes flooded.

Trash everywhere.

The trash is all through the electric wires, showing just how high the water was.

Some of the Faith Academy dorm kids who volunteered to help.

Many cars were entirely submerged. In one of the houses we helped clean today, the walls were covered with oil eight feet high, and there was several inches of mud on the floor.

Please pray for the many missionaries who have been affected by this flood. Pray also for the millions of Filipinos who have lost so much. It will take a long time to rebuild.

Jollibee

2009-09-28T20:48:00.003+08:00

I have not blogged in a really, really long time. So, if you want to catch up with what we've been doing...keep scrolling down because there are a whole bunch of new posts.
We had a fantastic cultural excursion last night... We were invited to a little girl's birthday party. It was held at the Filipino version of McDonald's called Jollibee. Asia had an amazing time. She was sooo excited when she got home...she had a really, really hard time falling asleep. She was talking about it first thing this morning too. I hope she realizes that most birthday parties are NOT like that.
Eating her Jollibee meal...spaghetti, rice, gravy, corn, fried chicken, brownies, ice cream sundae...coke to drink...just kidding...she did NOT drink it.

Some of the kids with the Jollibee.

Asia really loved him.

The boys even got in this shot.

She just couldn't get enough of him.

Asia with Sheila(pronounced Shayla)...the birthday girl.

A Couple of Fun Ones

2009-09-28T20:02:00.002+08:00

I didn't exactly know where to fit these in...so here they are.
Asia listening to Grammy's ipod.

The boys learning how to climb up the slide.

More Excursions

2009-09-28T19:38:00.002+08:00

As you can see we've been busy since arriving in Manila. We've had a lot of fun. Asia was able to come on several of our excursions for school. She really enjoyed that.
Delicious Lechon.

Taste testing the Lechon.

@ the University of the Philippines...they have grass.

@ the Post Office. Learning how to mail letters here in the Philippines.

Cultural Excursions

2009-09-28T14:26:00.003+08:00

Before we begin language study, we get to do some cultural excursions around Manila to see various things.
Me with Leilani and Wendel waiting for the Ferry ride on the Pasig.

Leilani and I @ Fort Santiago.

Cheers...getting some water cuz it was really, really, hot and humid.

Us at the National Museum.

One of my favorite things I've seen so far. Pinoy Egg Burger.

Things you can get to eat at Pinoy Egg Burger. Deep Fried One Day Old Chicks. And Battered and Deep Fried Boiled Eggs.

Asia and Daddy at the meat market.

Yummy. This is where we got our meat to make adobo.

Asia enjoying some local fruit.

Getting ready to eat our adobo.

Yummy!

Here we are in the Philippines

2009-09-28T10:02:00.003+08:00

As you can see...I'm trying to catch up on my blogging... Anyway...here are some various pictures from our first week or so here in the Philippines.
Celebrating my mom's birthday having an amazing Green Mango Shake!!!

The boys having fun in our room at the guest house.

Manny P! You rock.

We found a carousel here for Asia.

The boys playing at the playground at the guesthouse.

Asia made a new friend here.

Leaving on a Jet Plane

2009-09-28T09:53:00.003+08:00

Here we are getting ready to head off to the Philippines.
Thankfully, my mom was able to come along and stay for a few weeks to help us.

Family picture at the airport.

Asia sleeping on the airplane.

Brian and the boys.

ZOO TIME

2009-09-28T09:37:00.002+08:00

A couple of days before we left the States we took the kids to the zoo. It was a fantastic outing for Asia. She really loved it...of course, the boys didn't care. Anyway...here's some pics.

Watching the elephants get a bath.

Feeding the Giraffes.

Riding the train.

Check out the peacock in the background...Asia wasn't so sure about having him just walking around freely.

Trying to Catch Up

2009-09-21T21:23:00.003+08:00

Once again I'm trying to play catch up... I'll try to keep this really short with loads of pictures. The boys were sick for the month of July...unfortunately...I'm not exaggerating. :( It's a long story with visits to two other doctors cuz ours was out of the country. Anyway...when our Dr got back...the boys were put on meds and got better right away.
After that, it was packing like mad to get things ready to be shipped to the Philippines...Brian made a trip out to Virginia. We had to get out of our apartment...which included trying to figure out what to keep and what to bring and what to get rid of...it was crazy.
Here we are saying goodbye to our awesome Doctor. She is Filipina and we will miss her.

Asia getting one last boat ride in before we left.

And of course, fishing.

The boys enjoying the crazy beautiful weather we had in Missouri before we left.

Cousins

2009-07-23T10:11:00.002+08:00

My cousins came to visit!
Sarah feeding the boys.

Asia and Daniel-boy "fishing".

The kiddos.

Us girls.

The cousins.

We had a blast...we're so glad that you could visit.

Curious George @ the Youzem

2009-07-23T10:05:00.002+08:00

Curious George came to a Museum near us...so we took Asia... She LOVED it!!

The kiddos, Grammy, and George.

Asia giving George a huge hug.

Asia with TJ the Tiger.

4th of July

2009-07-23T10:01:00.002+08:00

Asia is now really afraid of fireworks. Almost every nap and bedtime she asks me if there are going to be fireworks.

The men.

Asia didn't want her picture taken...we tricked her by telling her that we wanted to take pictures of the flowers that she picked for me.

The Marathon...

2009-07-06T02:10:00.009+08:00

I'm just warning you...this might be the longest post ever!!! I've had quite a lot of ideas for blogging...just haven't been able to... So, to explain...and to catch you all up... Here it goes!

PART 1: TEETHING
I know...I know...They look soooo cute playing here together!!!

But, what would you say if I told you that they were all teething together too!?! YIKES! The boys each have their two bottom teeth. And I think Asia is trying to get her two year molars. Leif started us out...by getting one...then, Slater got both of his...and after quite a bit of waiting and screaming and lack of sleep...Leif finally got his second one. Still waiting on Asia's...but I think it will be a while.

PART 2: Minnesota

Did I mention that while this was going on...we got this fabulous idea to go to Minnesota for a family wedding reception?!? We(by that I mean Brian) drove through the night to get there... The kids slept one of the nights that we were there...and didn't sleep the other two. Then, Brian drove through the night to get us home. The kiddos still aren't back to sleeping through the night from that trip...which was three weeks ago. The kiddos with the newlyweds.

Asia on the carousel @ the Mall of America.

The kiddos with the great grandparents on Brian's side.

Asia having lunch with "Cousin" Ethan.

PART 3: Father's Day

Daddy and his Princess

Daddy and the boys...this was their very first time in the Lake.

PART 4: Pool Time

We had about 1 1/2 weeks of typical Missouri type weather...96+ degrees...and VERY humid. The kids spent a whole lot of time in the pool. They really loved it.

I took about 50 shots to get one in which they were all looking at the camera.

My precious Goofball!!!

Slater

Leif

PART 5: PAPERWORK!!!

As many of you know...We're planning on moving to the Philippines. So, I've been trying to get paperwork in order... Holy Cow! What a fiasco! First, I was told to fill out the wrong forms!!! Then, I was told that I first had to send various documents to three different Secretary of States. Then, send them to two different embassys/consulates. Oh, and also I had to get new birth certificates/marriage licenses because they couldn't be more than a year old. haha Laugh or Cry. I choose to laugh!!

PART 6: Waiting to Exhale

Or should I say waiting on Leif to exhale...

And the latest craziness!!! Our darling Leif had been strangely turning blue. As in not breathing and turning blue. So, to make a LONG story short...after going to my pediatrician and finding out he has a heart murmur. Then, being sent to a pediatric cardiologist... We found out that Leif has an "innocent" murmur... it's actually quite "normal" and he should out grow it by the time that he's three or so. However, that is not what is causing him to turn blue. That is actually caused by something called "Breath Holding Spells" (BHS). It's his body's reflex to being scared, frustrated, in pain, etc. He holds his breath and starts to turn blue... Some kids even pass out. Thankfully, he hasn't done that yet. However, BHS tends to peek at about 18 months to 2 years...and can last as long as 8 years...but they do out grow it. Anyway, I'm just learning about BHS...and it's kind of crazy. But nothing to be overly concerned about...

I guess I'll end this marathon blog on this...

My boys...they are both pulling themselves up to standing now...and keeping me VERY busy. And Asia just made the exciting discovery that she can climb out of her bed by herself, so life is changing very quickly. The boys are crying...gotta go.

I Scream...You Scream...We All Scream

2009-06-10T02:02:00.003+08:00

Anyway...as promised...pictures from our ice cream truck adventure. Now Asia keeps asking me if we can go to the ice cream truck. :)
I scream. You scream. We all scream. For ICE CREAM!
My dad taught me that when I was a kid.

Asia checking out her Dora the Explorer ice cream...or as she calls her...Dora Bora. Bri and I really can't stand that cartoon. I'm the map, I'm the map, I'm the map, I'm the map, I'M THE MAP! But, I think that could be a post all on it's own.

The cheeseball!

Two cheeseballs!

Apparently, she also wanted some of mine!

Ok...now she's sharing. Yes, my mouth is almost all the way around it. :) By the way, hers was really, really disgusting. Strawberry-banana. GROSS! But she liked it and that is what matters.

She was quite devastated when it melted off the stick!

And, yes, we know we should have taken her dress off!

Phantom Hair & The Biggest Loser

2009-06-08T23:41:00.006+08:00

I got my hair chopped off on Saturday...and now, I'm suffering from what the girl who cuts my hair calls "Phantom Hair". If you've ever had a drastic haircut you know what I'm talking about. When you go to fling your hair behind your shoulder...only you don't have any. Or being startled...when you go to wash your hair...and there is nothing there to wash.
BEFORE!
AFTER!

I really like it...and so does my hubby. He, actually, likes my hair better short. Weird! :) I hated it long...and was definitely ready for a change.

And, for those of you that knew that I was in a Biggest Loser type competition with my mom, hubby, and Micah for the last 12 weeks. I won! I am the Biggest Loser!!!! Yay!

I lost 9.6 pounds...which seems quite measly...but it was actually, quite difficult. It's hard to get out and exercise with all the kiddos(I don't have a triple stroller)...and by evening...I'm completely exhausted.

My mom says the struggle to lose weight has to do with my age. :) I'm approaching the big 30. I'll be 28 next month.

With Asia, I dropped pregnancy weight sooo fast...without any work at all. This time around...I gained about twice as much weight...and I'm struggling to lose it. I have to be careful not to lose weight to quickly also...because I'm nursing. I believe only about a pound a week is the recommended.

Anyway...I have about 10 more pounds to lose to get down to my pre-pregnancy weight...so, I'm still working at it.

Sedentary Sunday

2009-06-08T12:20:00.003+08:00

Enjoying the beautiful afternoon outside!

We try not to do much on Sunday. It's supposed to be our day of rest.

I mean we go to church and all...which those of you with more than one kid knows...that's a joke...definitely doesn't start our day of rest...with resting. :) It's completely hectic...trying to get everyone fed, dressed, into carseats, etc. Also, trying to figure out the best schedule for feeding the boys...do I feed them before we go...or just feed them at church. If I feed them at church...what's the point in going...since, I'll spend a good 30 to 40 minutes out...feeding, changing diapers, etc. Now that they are eating solids too...how do I feed them when I'm out at a place without high chairs. I can't hold them and feed them at the same time...which is what I did with Asia. (Any tips would be appreciated.)

Ok...before I go completely off subject here...

This morning Brian headed out the door with the kids...and I was right behind...locking the door. I turned around...wondering why he stopped in the middle of the sidewalk...since we were running a little late! To make a long story short...there was a snake right by our van. I HATE SNAKES!!! We had nothing to kill it with. So, I ended up getting around and getting in the van...I then, proceeded to run over it MULTIPLE times. I went a little Psycho Mommy on it. :) Brian tried to convince me that it was dead...but it was definitely still moving. Let's just say...when I was done...It definitely wasn't wiggling at all. Sorry...to those of you that like snakes...but in my book...the ONLY good snake is a DEAD snake. I DO NOT try to figure out if it's posionous or not!!!

We made it to church...LATE! Which by the way...the kids did really well in. Asia was very wiggly but quiet. Leif slept. And Slater, just chilled out.

After lunch, I went to Walmart...to do my grocery shopping for the week. Now I remember why I do not shop on Sundays!!!

The big high light of the afternoon...was the ice cream truck came by. I told Asia we would get ice cream from it some day... So, we finally did. It was a big hit... I'll post some pics soon.

After supper, baths, etc. I decided to run out to Target, etc (about 30 minutes away)...cuz we needed some gifts for a bunch of people. While I was there...Brian called... He NEVER calls. The boys were screaming their full heads off. Asia was still awake. I finished up & hurried home... The kiddos finally went to bed around 9:30. The boys usually go down at around 7 and Asia at 8. So, maybe...they'll sleep in. HA! What a joke!

Anyway...I've been rambling on and on! So, I didn't have the "Sedentary Sunday" that I planned... But, I'm not complaining. It could have been worse.

The End of the Hike

2009-06-07T11:12:00.001+08:00

So, we finished our 45-miler. We were Tired, but it was fun.

Ozark Highlands Trail--- definitely worth the hike.

Don't like SPAM on your Computer? Don't Watch.

2009-06-07T10:56:00.004+08:00

As we continued our trek, it was nice to realize that if we had to go and live out in the wilds, we would be doing pretty well. That is, if we had a steady supply of Spam, waterproof matches and peanut butter.

And for all you SPAM lovers out there, here is more than you ever wanted to know about that special meat:

o By World War II, Hormel had sold twenty thousand tons of Spam. Then, during the wartime meat rationing, Spam got popular...

o If all the cans of Spam ever eaten were put end-to-end, they would circle the globe at least ten times.

o Senator Robert Byrd of West Viginia eats a sandwich of SPAM and mayonnaise on white bread three times a week.

o Residents of Hawai'i eat an average of four cans of SPAM per person per year, more than in any other place on Earth (Elsewhere in the Universe, who knows?).

o In Korea, SPAM is sold in stylish presentation gift boxes of nine cans each. SPAM stolen from army PXs can be found on the Korean black market. And there are Korean imitations called Lo-Spam, Dak, Plumrose, and Tulip, to ensure that no one need go without.

o Nikita Krushchev once credited SPAM with the survival of the WWII Russian army. ''Without SPAM, we wouldn't have been able to feed our army,'' he said.

o In 1989, the U.S. armed forces bought 3.3 million pounds of SPAM.

o Over 141 million cans of SPAM are sold worldwide each year.

Isn't that exciting?
Taken from: http://www.cusd.claremont.edu/~mrosenbl/spamfacts.html

The Call of the Mild

2009-06-07T09:54:00.005+08:00

Do you hear that sound? That unmistakable sound of cars, appliances, an air conditioner, and if you’re lucky, an espresso maker?

Yes. It’s the Call of the Mild.

Ok, so civilization can be a good thing. But every once in a while, it’s natural to want to go back to a simpler time. When men were men and they looked a lot like a young Daniel Day-Lewis in buckskin clothing carrying a really long black powder rifle and sporting impossibly well-kept shoulder-length hair.

Sometimes you just want to, as my brother-in-law says, “throw off the IKEA nesting instinct.” Which apparently is a line from a movie I’ve never seen in which the only good thing about the movie was that line.

So, my two brother-in-laws and I decided to go into the wilds of Arkansas on the Ozark Highlands Trail.
Don’t laugh. It can get pretty wild. Hey, it even has its own National Geographic article, http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2008/10/ozark-trail/white-text .
So there.
We decided to do about 45 miles in just over three days. Didn’t sound too hard.
We were wrong.

Hydrate or die.

The Circle of Life

2009-06-07T09:54:00.004+08:00

I think it was somewhere during the first full day of hiking the Ozark Highlands Trail when we realized we were not hiking in Missouri anymore. The uphills were longer, the downhills were shorter, and our packs were even heavier than usual.

It was fun. In an exhausting, my-pack-hurts-my-back-and-I-see-another-hill sort of way.

On our second morning we were walking down the trail when Micah stopped very abruptly. I can’t remember exactly what he said, but check out this video to see what we saw.
By the time we left, only the chipmunk’s tail was visible. I had never seen anything like it, even in a zoo.

My Sweetheart!

2009-06-04T09:48:00.002+08:00

Yes...I'm still alive! I haven't been blogging because my dearest husband has been gone. He went hiking for four days with my brothers. Hopefully, he will be blogging about this soon...since there are some great pics!
While he was gone...I went and stayed with my folks...which was great...because Asia had a ton of space to run, swim, etc...plus, help from my folks with the kiddos.
I really missed my hubby. Whenever he's gone...it's like a huge reality check...Holy Cow...He helps me sooo much...and I rely on him so much.
Darjeeling, I love you soooo much!

A Long Time in Coming...Memorial Day

2009-06-04T09:28:00.005+08:00

My cousins decided to come visit at the last minute for Memorial Day...and we are sooo glad that they did! We had a blast!!!
We made giant bubbles!!!

My cousin Jon and his daughter Elliana.

Avery and Slater

Avery, Elliana and Leif...should I be worried that they are trying to get him to play with a doll?

Avery and Leif

Peyton and Slater...check out Slater's face.

Jon with Leif

Asia and Elliana

Thankful Thursday - Solid Food

2009-05-29T03:01:00.005+08:00

I've been wanting to post something about starting the boys on solids...So, here I am...just about 2 1/2 weeks after starting them on solids. :) I spotted this excellent idea on someone else's blog...about having a Thankful Thursday.

You have no idea how thankful I am... I dreaded starting the boys on solids...

The Little Miss is NOT a very good eater...she will try anything...but will only take a bite or two. I feel like for the last two years...every meal is a chore...trying to coax her to eat just one more bite. Seriously, I wonder how she can survive on how much she eats.

So, when the boys hit six months...and I knew that I should think about starting the boys on some solids...as they were waking up more often, etc... But I sure did not want to!!!! Well, eventually, I got myself around to it...and HOLY COW... They are fantastic eaters. I am even trying to figure out if I should cut back on how much I'm feeding them...so that they'll still nurse well. Slater only wants to nurse 4 times a day...sometimes 5. Leif wants to nurse 5 times. I'm still only giving them solids twice a day.

Any advice would be appreciated!!!

Here we are...getting started. Asia is very interested in this whole process... Normally, she's hanging on my back/reaching over my shoulder..."helping" me. :)
Leif...he eats his solids...but I think he still prefers to nurse.

Slater...He wasn't sure about it at first...but now he loves food!!!

Ahhh...my life...three kids in high chairs...

Slater loves carrots...well, everything so far!!

Leif...

So, there you have it. I'm so thankful that my boys are GREAT eaters!

Airing My Dirty Laundry

2009-05-28T02:28:00.003+08:00

Ok...Seriously...Does this happen to anyone else?!? Actually, this laundry is clean...and is probably 5 or 6 loads worth. I swear that I just washed this exact stuff just a couple of days ago. I can get the laundry washed...but folded and put away is an entirely different matter. Or they get washed and folded...but they just sit in a basket and never get put away. It just becomes this huge mound that I can never seem to get to the bottom of. Normally...we just pull the clothes out that we need and they end up dirty again...before they were even folded. It's a vicious cycle!!!

Maddox is @ Home

2009-05-25T04:28:00.002+08:00

Thanks for your prayers. He got to go home on Friday. Praise the Lord! Isn't he sooo cute!

Milo & The Bull

2009-05-21T13:00:00.003+08:00

I'm frequently asked if I go out by myself. The answer: Yes, I do!
Then, I'm asked how I do it. The answer: Like this!
I told Brian that he had better hurry up and take a picture of me doing this...because I don't think I'll be able to do it for much longer.
He tells me it's like Milo & the Bull. Remember the story of the guy who carried his bull up the mountain everyday...he got stronger as the bull grew.

Worth a Chuckle

2009-05-19T21:07:00.005+08:00

The other day I was looking for a picture for my Mother's Day post...and I ran across pictures from when I was pregnant with Asia. Let's just say it made me laugh. I wasn't going to blog about it...but my cousin who is pregnant right now...blogged about her size differences between pregnancies...so I thought I might as well.

April 2007...just a couple of days before Asia was born. WAS I EVEN PREGNANT? :) (We were hiking in a park near our house.)October 2008...the day before I had Leif & Slater. Hello...Look out here I come...Boy, was I massive. MOST DEFINITELY PREGGO!!! By this point...I could hardly walk...definitely no hiking for me. :)

Maddox

2009-05-18T23:32:00.004+08:00

Our kids have a cousin...their very first one arrived this past Friday (May 15). Little Maddox Lee Johnson had a rough start. He's been in the NICU and was transfered to a different hospital last night for observation. He has quite a bit of blood on his brain/spinal fluid. Please be praying for him and his mommy and daddy.

Way Back When-esday - Mother's Day

2009-05-14T03:42:00.006+08:00

As it's Wednesday...And I've wanted to post some pictures of Mother's Day...I thought we'd go back in time. Thankfully, I'm just getting around to this...or I would have had to think of a clever name for my post on my own.
My 1st Mother's Day-2007...My little Princess was just a couple of weeks old.
My 2nd Mother's Day-2008...Pregnant with the boys and Asia had just turned one.

My 3rd Mother's Day-2009...Of course, the Little Princess wouldn't cooperate...so I didn't get a picture of all of us together...but that is my LIFE right now. :)

Me and my Little Men

Me and my Little Princess

Me and my Mama!!!

Great Grandparents Visit

2009-05-13T09:20:00.002+08:00

Brian's Grandma Justice came for a short visit.

Brian's other grandparents also came for a short visit.

Still Not Sure!?!

2009-05-11T09:58:00.003+08:00

Are you still not sure what to get good old Mom for Mother's Day?!? There is still time!!!
The gas station down the road from my house is offering 14 oz. Cokes for just 99 cents!!! For those of you with a little more cash on hand...you could always get her the Skoal Long Cut. It's wintergreen. I'm quite sure either of these options would just THRILL the woman who went through 36 hours of labor to birth you.
I'm, actually, quite disappointed that Brian didn't get one for me. (The coke, silly!)
Anyway...When I saw this sign...It gave me a good laugh...so, I thought you might enjoy it too.

Flashback Friday

2009-05-02T11:45:00.005+08:00

It's 11 PM...on Friday night...and I almost forgot to do a flashback Friday. So, here it is...way last minute...real quick like.
Asia's 1st Birthday cake... the GIANT cupcake.

Asia's 2nd Birthday cake... I'm not sure why my computer keeps turning this picture every time I try to upload it...sorry. the Curious George cake

Our little Princess at her 1st Birthday party.

Our little monkey...I mean Princess at her 2nd birthday party.

"Prom"

2009-05-01T03:41:00.002+08:00

Brian and I have been attending a marriage thing at our church. On Sunday nights, we met for about 10 to 20 minutes...and then, got to go out for a date with a list of discussion questions. For the last night...there was a big dinner, and even dancing afterwards. We really enjoyed it. Plus it gave us time to talk about something other than burping, poop, etc. :)
I have several new post below. Update on the kids, Asia's Birthday, and Asia's Party.
Be sure to check them out.

Well-Babies

2009-05-01T02:29:00.003+08:00

We just took the kiddos to the doctor yesterday for their checkups. Yes, it was crazy...and we were there for several hours. :) It takes a long time for three kids. :) By the way...we love our kids doctor. She's a Filipina and is just awesome. Plus, she just gave me the number of her brother in the Philippines to call when we get there...cuz his wife is pediatric cardiologist...anyway...I'm going to take the kids to see her when we get to the Philippines. And our doctor is going back to the Philippines in December to visit...so we're already making plans to get together. Ok...enough already.
The boys...and their 1/2 birthday cake. I know...I know...I'm a corny mom...but I can't resist. Don't worry...I don't give the boys any...I haven't even started feeding them solids yet.

Leif

Weight: 14 pounds 12 ounces (25th percentile)

Height: 25 1/2 inches (25th percentile)

Slater

Weight: 14 pounds 2 ounces (just above the 3rd percentile)

Height: 25 inches (just above the 10th percentile)

Slater is crawling ALL OVER. Leif can crawl a little...but is more content just to chill out. They both can sit up(not pushing up to a sitting position yet)...but Leif can sit for longer than Slater. You can definitely see the differences in their personalities.

Our little birthday girl...Asia turned two and is quite obsessed with Curious George. She loves to read the original stories...you know the ones that are about 50 pages long!!!!

Asia got a doctor's kit for her birthday...you know...Curious George goes to the doctor. Apparently, doctors' wear glasses!!! Oh, well....Asia loves them...and it totally cracks me up.

She's learning about sharing her toys now that her brother's are mobile...and they can get to anything she leaves on the floor. The fun begins!!! I think I'm going to be the referee soon.

Asia

Weight: 24 pounds 2 ounces (25th percentile)

Height: 32 1/2 inches (25th percentile)

This is a big deal for us...Asia hasn't been in the 25th percentile since she was about 4 months old...She's normally in the 5th. YAY Asia!!!

We've been pretty busy the last week...so there are several new posts below this one...(of Asia's Birthday)...be sure to check them out.

The Actual Day

2009-04-30T12:06:00.003+08:00

There is another post right below this one...of Asia's Curious George Birthday Party...so make sure you check that one out too. Asia's quite obsessed with Curious George...so you might sense a theme.
Asia got a Rocket...Curious George goes to space in a rocket...and even gets a medal for doing it.

Asia got a doctor kit... Curious George goes to the doctor.

Shot anyone?!?

Blueberry pancakes for Asia's Birthday supper...just like in the book. We had spaghetti at the party...Also a Curious George thing...He ate it by the yards and yards and got all tangled up in it.

Yummy!

Asia's Curious George Birthday Party

2009-04-30T11:45:00.004+08:00

I'm not sure why this picture is turned like that...anyway...this cake was a joint effort with my mom...she did the hard part...the outlining...and I did the fill in.

3 generations

The girls at the party...the 3 Whidden girls and Faith Jeffries.

Kessa Whidden

Asia blowing out her candles.

Yummy...cake and ice cream(w/sprinkles).

Opening gifts.

Chris Jeffries

The only boy...besides Leif and Slater(but they're babies...so they don't count).

Dogwood Parade

2009-04-21T20:12:00.005+08:00

The Dogwood Parade was this past Saturday. It was the kids very first parade...and we just had to walk a couple of blocks from our house.
The boys didn't care...except they really, really didn't like it when the fire trucks and police cars blew their horns and turned on their sirens. Asia really liked the animals...the dogs and horses. She also really liked it when Ronald McDonald, the Hamburgler, etc came by.
Waiting for the parade to start.

Petting a dog that came by.

Watching the big horses.

And the little horses.

The Kiddos

2009-04-21T19:59:00.003+08:00

Ahhh...Yes...Our little Princess!!!

All 3 kids...They love playing with Asia and watching her play.

Asia and Leif

My big boys!

Easter

2009-04-14T12:13:00.005+08:00

I've often seen "Flashback Fridays" or "Way Back Wednesdays" on other blogs...and I always enjoy seening how much the kids have grown. I know it is not Friday or Wednesday...it is Monday...actually, almost Tuesday. But, I have to blog when I can blog...so today it is.
Easter 2008
Here is my little princess last year for her very first Easter...back when she was an only child. :)
Easter 2009
This year...we had three kids that needed to cooperate for pictures...which they didn't. :) Plus, it was raining...so, pictures had to be indoors.

Asia...my darling...won't look at the camera... She really doesn't like pictures very much right now.

My boys...tired and hungry... So, no smiles. :)

Easter Eggs

2009-04-12T03:31:00.003+08:00

We dyed some Easter eggs with Asia today... You can't really tell in these pictures...but they were also covered in glitter...so, now our house has glitter all over.