State the Obvious

Family blessing

2012-01-30T08:34:00.000-08:00

About 10 days ago, my niece finally got her liver transplant...from her Aunt (my sis)! We are just so relieved that this day has come and everything went really smoothly. They are both at home recovering now. What an amazing sacrifice and gift my sister has given to Marissa, and how lucky we are that she was a match!

First trip to the zoo

2012-01-30T08:15:00.000-08:00

The last day Yi Yi & Nai Nai came to visit, we decided to head up to the SF zoo. It was super chilly that day, but it was still nice to have the zoo less crowded so we could make our way through most of the exhibits without waiting. Max was such a good boy and stayed strapped down in his stroller with minor complaining.

Out of all the things that were his favorite, I would have to say it was the ducks! Go figure...lol. The highlight was the children's petting zoo part. Max loved watching the ducks and feeding the goats. It was all over though once he found a pile of duck poop..I'll spare you the details.

Max plays with Yi Yi before we head out

Family photo

Max is mesmerized by the Rhino

Rhinoceros!

Sleepy lion

Lounging lemurs

Giraffes & friends

This owl was HUGE. You can't tell from the pic, but around 3 ft. tall!

Max trying to point to all the ducks at once

Hi there!

Max loves his Nai Nai & Yi Yi

Christmas afternoon

2012-01-29T20:12:00.000-08:00

Christmas afternoon was spent getting our tummies full and opening gifts. It was so nice to have all the fam over to celebrate and watch Max run around in wonder at what was going on.

Hope all of you enjoyed your holidays as well!

Leon holding our new great niece Arianna

Arianna - such a cutie!!!

My nephew Anthony, his wife Jonna, & my niece Marissa

My sis Nga playing with Tank

L2R: John, Hong, Johnathon, Marissa, Jonna, Arianna, & Anthony

Jonna, Leon, Arianna, me, Nga, Anthony

The Grandparents: Ann, Frank, Jim, Lan

Christmas morning

2012-01-29T18:38:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning was a whirlwind. Since we were hosting, I spent most of it cooking. But we took time out for Max to enjoy his Santa present and open stockings!

Santa brought me a new iPod nano and other cool stuff. Max got a new table & chair set just his size and has been pretty happy with it since.

Max was pretty excited with his Santa present

Proud to have his own place to sit

Demonstrating

Stocking time

Playing with his stocking stuffers as YiYi & NaiNai watch

Max, YiYi, & Tank chill out

Who stole the cookie from the cookie jar?

2012-01-25T20:03:00.000-08:00

Many of you may know that I go a little bonkers with baking during christmas season. Cookies and more cookies galore to give away to friends and fam.

Well a certain Mr. Max was a wee bit taller than I thought and managed to get a hand on one of my cooling sugar cookies. When Leon and I asked him about it, he shrugged his shoulders, said "Uh-Oh" and "Mmmmm!!!" before smiling and running off with the thing. With his first taste of a cookie (well not taste...an ENTIRE cookie), Max stayed up nearly an hour that night before he conked out in his crib! Thank goodness it wasn't a frosted one :)

Got caught!

Do not let a crumb of this goodness go to waste!

SO GOOOOD! :)

and the first catch-up post: Nai Nai comes early

2012-01-25T19:51:00.000-08:00

Nai Nai came the week before XMas to get some one on one time with Max. From the looks of it, Max seemed mighty fine with that!

Well hello there...and go Niners!

2012-01-16T15:08:00.000-08:00

How about them niners this past weekend? Wow! What a game. I officially drink the Harbaugh koolaid!!! Woot woot!

Yes, I know I know, I have not been very diligent in keeping my blog up to date. But I've been:

- Reading the Twilight Saga (done...in 5 days..the entire thing)
- Running
- Spending an exorbitant amount of time on Pinterest
- Enjoying nights doing absolutely NOTHING

A serious blog blast is coming your way. In the meantime, here is Max helping us cheer on the 49ers this past weekend..and it worked! :)

Santa? He's alright.

2011-12-12T20:03:00.000-08:00

That sums up what Max thought about him. We headed over to Stanford mall last week on a weeknight to beat the crowds. Santa and his helpers asked how old Max was, and they gave us a whole lot of advice on how he would probably have a meltdown and the best way to take a pic (parents with him first, then Mom behind the camera, then Dad with Mom behind the camera, then lots of crazy waving, clapping, & yelling).

Max did not crack a smile and was a little weary of Santa, but I think we are just thankful that a meltdown didn't happen!

18 months

2011-12-11T21:41:00.000-08:00

My oh my, time flies by. Our lil' guy turned 18 months old on November 22nd, and he surprises us all the time with how much his development is blossoming.

Max had his appointment a couple weeks late, but here's the stats:

Head circumference: 49cm, 86th percentile
Height: 33 in., 63rd percentile
Weight: 26 lbs., 69th percentile

Max is full-on running now. It's one of his favorite past times. Other favorite past times: pretending to "cook" with pots & pans, hide and seek, bouncing & throwing balls, stacking blocks, feeding & playing with Tank, pretending to "sleep", cleaning the table and sweeping the floor, throwing clothes in the laundry hamper, dancing, pointing out the parts of his face (and the parts of our faces too), being outside, baths, jumping on our bed, playing with his sound machine, playing with our alarm clock, climbing stairs, going to the park, and our favorite - giving kisses & hugs.

Things Max can say: Uh-oh, Oh wow!, Mama, Dada, all done, no ("nah!"), yay, ball, apple ("bapple"), banana ("nana"). Sometimes can also say: duck or up ("uh!")

Things Max can sign: Please, up, more, all done, help, thank you, eat, milk, hi, bye, cold, hurt/pain...and of course, touchdown!

Max has a total of eight teeth (4 on top and 4 on the bottom), and four molars breaking in. By now, Max has had well over 10-12 haircuts (probably more) since he was born. Besides his hair, he seems to be growing in height pretty fast.

Max's favorite foods: Oatmeal, yogurt, bananas, avocado, beans, rice, quesadillas, chicken, watermelon, grapes, bread, crackers, raisins, eggs, breakfast sausage, cheese, apples, oranges, and peas.

Max is not a fan of: broccoli, nose-wiping, haircuts, or sitting still for long periods of time.

Max has changed our lives so much, but for the better. He is such a happy kiddo about 98% of the time and so outgoing. He loves being silly, making people laugh. Can we say, attention-getter? He is a determined little guy and spends a good amount of time trying to figure something new out. Even though his determination sometimes turns into tantrums, he is over them quickly enough. His laugh is contagious, and he is laughing often - especially when he wants to be chased or for you to come find him when he is hiding behind the curtains.

The moments I love are when Max is in a cuddly mood and so he'll come over and sit on my lap while flipping through a book, or kiss & hug you for no reason at all. I especially love watching Max & Leon together. They have such a special bond and he calls for his "Dada" all the time, wanting to play and sit with Leon. And football Sundays? Forgetta' bout it!

We love Max more and more each day and can't wait to see what he will surprise us with next!

Lunch with Miho

2011-12-11T20:14:00.000-08:00

The day after Hank's party, we headed over to Max's most favorite restaurant Chipotle to meet up with our friend Miho. I can't believe Miho has never gotten to meet Max, but I am glad she got to do so before he was in school!

Max showed Miho just how much he loves to eat, especially guacamole :)

Thanks for coming out with us Miho! Hope to see you again soon!

A present from Miho - Thomas bath toys!

Miho & Max

And one more

Hank turns 2!

2011-12-11T20:06:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we took a trip over to Henry's house to celebrate his 2nd birthday! I can not believe the Paulsons pulled together such a cute little shindig while wrangling three kiddos.

Max had such a fun time running around Henry's house and getting to play with his toys. And we of course, enjoyed watching Hank run around with all his other friends. It didn't hurt to hold a twin or two either :)

Brett's mom & Shannon feed the twins while Max watches

Max in the yard

Henry serving the drinks! :)

Max LOVED Hank's b-ball hoop

Ruby...look at those eyes!

B-day banner over the table

Make your own play-doh as thank-you gifts

Cute cupcakes

Brett gives Hank his bday cupcake

Max, Axelle, & Hank in the yard

Getting into the holiday spirit

2011-12-11T19:51:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, no Tank and Max in a photo together this year for the Xmas card. These two are way too mobile and even getting a pic of Max by himself was a challenge.

I did get some cute ones though after many many takes... :)

Bustin' moves to Mozart

2011-12-03T22:22:00.000-08:00

Talking on the phone

2011-11-21T20:27:00.000-08:00

Max just LOVES talking on the phone. (I guess he always has).When he hears the phone ring he runs on over and points because he wants me to answer it so he can also have a chance to talk.

Here he was this evening after his cousin (my niece) gave us a call. Long after she hung up, Max was still talking on the phone!

Typical morning

2011-11-21T19:53:00.000-08:00

Brush your teeth...(half sleepy)

...and off running!

Sundays during football season

2011-11-21T19:50:00.000-08:00

Bed head, 49ers shirt, reading the Economist with Daddy on the iPad before the games start...gotta' love football season!

Daddy daycare

2011-11-16T21:09:00.000-08:00

That's what this past Sunday was like around here...at least for an hour.

While I was driving Marissa back home, Leon & Max were having breakfast with Chris and his daughter Teagan. They went out to the park afterwards, and then headed back to our house. Brett ended up coming over with Henry too and all the dads were here with the kiddos. I came back just in time to see them all. I felt a little left out being the only mom there :)

Max isn't in alot of the photos. Why? Because he was running circles around the house of course. Exciting to have all his friends over I guess.

Henry & Teagan

Chris & Brett contemplate leaving their kids with me

More Teagan & Henry

My one shot of Max (wearing his niners shirt on Sunday!...it's kinda tradition now)

Henry & Teagan once more (Wait! I spot Max& Tank in the background)

My niece

2011-11-16T20:58:00.000-08:00

I haven't mentioned it before on my blog, but I have a niece and nephew that suffer from a rare liver disease. My nephew had a liver transplant when he was 5 years old and my niece was able to have a special surgery to prolong the use of her liver since she was 8 months old. The disease has progressed, however, and she is currently awaiting a liver transplant.

We are hoping she will find one soon (we are testing a family member). In the meantime, I was able to attend a fundraiser last week in Stockton to help raise funds for the transplant surgery should we find a donor.

Although it was hard on the family at first, we are staying very positive about the situation. Marissa exudes positivity right now and couldn't be any happier that she finally has enough energy to attend school (it's her first year of high school). Love her and I hope we have some good news on this soon!

My sis Hong, me, my sis Nga

Marissa, Hong, Johnathon (my nephew)

Reserved for Marissa!

Gramps with Max (Max would NOT let anyone else hold him that night!)

Leon chasing Max (BTW, this was how most of the dinner went w/ Max)

Max points something out for Grandma

Max & the Grands

Hong, Marissa, & John (Marissa's Dad)

Marissa giving her thank you speech

This past weekend, I was lucky enough to steal Marissa overnight and we had an all-out shopping trip up in San Francisco. What a great time!

Marissa also got to spend some time playing with Max. He was being pretty coy and shy around her at first (um...not Max's usual M.O.) then once he warmed up, he didn't want anyone else holding him! So cute to see these cousins together.

M & M - cousins!

Halloween - the evening

2011-11-10T20:37:00.000-08:00

And then we roll into the evening. Big big props to the Paulson 5 for bringing the full family in tow to come celebrate Halloween/my bday with us! Thank you Paulsons! Wow...I can no longer complain about trying to get Max out to any event after that.

Henry and Max were matching pirates and I made the radio flyer into a pirate ship for them to ride around in. Charlotte & Ruby donned the CUTEST hallo-headbands from "Crafty Jan" and rode in the stroller.

What a great night, I can not wait to do this again next year :)

Vampy pumpkins

Our carved pumpkins

Tank's costume...hee hee

Max & Henry ready to trick-or-treat

Charlotte & Ruby...SO CUTE!!!

The pirates in their ship

All the boys

Oh yes Brett DID roll up on the lawn..had to! It was a pirate set up!

Surrender it!!! (this house kinda had a creepy lady...like for real creepy, not just Halloween creepy)

Angie gets the boys in action

Arrghhh - Max spots the treasure and Hank says "You sure?"

End of the night, let's throw candy around!

A knife in the bday cake for Halloween, perfect!

Thanks to the hubs for getting me awesome tix to Cirque for my bday which we'll be seeing tomorrow afternoon! :)

Halloween - the afternoon

2011-11-10T20:04:00.000-08:00

After stopping by work, I dropped off Max with his nanny Paola and her son Ayrton (Cooper tagged along too!). They took him over to the Stanford mall to check out the giant pumpkins and hang out with everyone else in costume. Wow, they really did it up and put me to shame (first year in a long time I have not dressed up).

Max looks like he had a great time and the fun continued!

Max wanders around

Cooper, Paola, & Max

Max & Ayrton

Paola & Max

Max the pirate checks out the rough waters

Halloween - the morning

2011-11-10T19:55:00.000-08:00

I do love Halloween. How fun to get dressed up, stay up late, and collect candy...and then to have a bday too? Great stuff.

I had the day off, but I stopped by work so Max could show off his costume. He LOVED it there! He was having a ball running around the cubes and offices. He did take a spill when he went full-speed into an office window (oops!) but when we were all laughing, so was he.

Tough pirate

Happy pirate

Hat-hair pirate

Thanks for the pics Wente!

The real gym - Little Gym

2011-11-03T07:46:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning we found ourselves at the Little Gym. Max had a blast at this indoor playground. He didn't really participate in the structured "circle time" but he came back when it was time to run in circles - go figure! Should the times work out, we may be coming back.

Gym practice

2011-11-02T23:08:00.000-07:00

Last week we turned the couch into a jungle gym for Max to get him ready for his trip to the Little Gym. Here some videos of him having fun with it.

Friday at the park

2011-11-02T20:18:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a fun-filled weekend we had this past week. Let's start off with Friday night when Max was a but squirrelly so we took him to a local park to get his ya-ya's out.

Ready to climb the stairs

And then back down again

This is a great game...up & down the stairs

Mama and Max

Daddy playing w/Max on the sand table

Well hello lil' one

2011-10-25T21:36:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we finally got to meet lil' Albert Wehrman! Our friends Lisa & Tom had him on September 1st, but have been very busy with the lil' guy. We all headed over to their place and while Max showed Tom & Lisa what would eventually need to be child-proofed, we got to dote on Albert for a bit.

Look at those cheeks...can you not DIE? What a beautiful family they make!

Tom, Albert, & Lisa

Stompin' around stanford

2011-10-25T21:31:00.000-07:00

Last weekend my parents and my sis came to visit and we decided to walk around the Stanford campus to let Max get his ya-ya's out before lunch. Not only am I reminded how pretty this portion of the campus was, but it is always great to see Max spend time with his grandma, grandpa, and auntie!

Pops & Moms in front of the church

Max on the go

"What's up statue?"

Mom & Auntie Nga watch Max run around

Max LOVES his Grandpa

More running around

Pumpkin Patchin'

2011-10-25T20:55:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks back we visited the pumpkin patch with Max. We decided on a local family farm (Webb Ranch in Portola Valley) instead of trying to deal with the Half Moon Bay madness that happens around this time of year.

It was so fun to see Max so into it. He insisted on walking from the car all the way down the hill and into the patch by himself (no hand holding by Mom). Once he got there, he was amazed by the selection and prices...ok that was me. Really, we got about 5-6 pumpkins total and we paid $22! Awesome. Best part of all was to see how quickly Max caught on to picking out pumpkins (going for alot of big ones) and putting them in a wheel barrel. I can't wait to see how he reacts to trick-or-treating :)

Max poses on a hay stack

Daddy & Max on the hay truck

Max picks his first pumpkin

Leon paying close attention to ~~fantasy footbal~~l Max

Max & Daddy

More pumpkin pickin'

Two Sweet

2011-10-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

You know, I been dying to tell you about these two, but I wanted their folks to be able to tell ya' first.

We are more than ecstatic to announce the arrival of our dear friends the Paulson's baby girls...yep twins! Congrats Angie, Brett, & Big Bro Henry!

Ruby Genevieve Paulson
October 7th 10:01 pm 6 lbs 3 oz 19.75 in

Charlotte Piper Paulson
October 7th 10:07 pm 5 lbs 15 oz 18.5 in

Ruby & Charlotte

Ruby

Charlotte

Me visiting@ the hospital...they were so tiny & cute!

Very proud about using a spoon

2011-10-24T22:37:00.000-07:00

Another reason Max & Tank are good buds

2011-10-24T22:20:00.000-07:00

Max cleans house with Tank

2011-10-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

I know I have been terrible at the blog upkeep...so here's a video to keep you interested! Max ~~torturing~~ playing with Tank. In case you can't tell, Tank is not a fan of anything that cleans the floor, be it vacuum, swiffer, or broom! (I also caught Max saying Uh-Oh on this vid :) )

The aftermath

2011-09-28T21:30:00.000-07:00

Max had fun with the decor from Francie's baby shower too...don't you love how he's peacefully reading his book after he was done with the cupcake wrappers?

Showering for Mama Francie

2011-09-28T21:27:00.000-07:00

On Sunday I had the honor of hosting a shower for my friend Francie and her second little one to arrive in December (it's a girl!). I decided on brunch, and while Leon had boys time with Max, we girls gabbed away over coffee & baked goods. I am so excited for Francie's baby girl and I know Andrew will be a great big bro...AND I also like shopping for girls :)

Now, when you are hosting brunch for a large group of people, labor intensive foods or those you cannot prep ahead of time are out (like pancakes, and made to order eggs). Instead? go for the baked stuff you can stick in the oven (and prep the night before!) and not think about while you run around decorating and getting yourself pretty.

On to the decor...

Stole this cupcake garland idea from Pinterest. (Thanks for the new addiction Annika!)

Serving up the food: Egg bake "Boozy" Baked French Toast (with Baileys), sausage, bacon, fruit salad, scones, & banana bread.

The "Wishes for Baby" idea was stolen from my awesome party-throwing friend Annika here.

Cupcakes stacked in a mason jar as favors...also stolen from Pinterest.

The guest of honor Francie (middle) surround by fam & friends!

Lily & Marie

Nhat, Karina, Roxanna, & Christina

Make a baby play-doh game - this was pretty funny

The winner Mary with Francie and the "baby"

Last shot of all the gals

Labor Day - Later

2011-09-28T20:58:00.000-07:00

Leon and I had an awesome weekend in Mendocino with friends during Labor Day Weekend, but I have no pictures to show for it.

I do have pictures from Labor Day when we took Max to the Children's Discovery Museum. This kid had a BLAST. He paid for it though, because I am thoroughly convinced this is where he caught the Hand, Foot, Mouth Disease (don't google it...you will only be grossed out).

It was such a fun time for him that we had a hard time getting him to leave. I know we will definitely be back one day.

At the water tables

Getting soaked

Putting sidewalk chalk in the plant buckets

And...um...in the plants too

Fun at this maze (that hole was a vacuum that sucked in the ping pong ball)

Cool technicolor room with a carousel shadow

Sand table

Same weekend - different celebration

2011-09-08T19:42:00.000-07:00

Yes...it was a busy weekend that one before last. We headed out to the Ritz in HMB to celebrate the impending arrival of the Paulson's twins! Whoo hoo. What a great excuse to have a fancy brunch.

The Kavals, Paulsons, & Chens ate our hearts out, took a mini-walk around the hotel, and hung out the remainder of the day. How cute does Angie look...would you think she was expecting twins? No!

Congrats Paulsons - we can not WAIT to meet these little girls!

The girls

The guys

Angie thinking "Why yes, bloody marys sound like a GREAT idea!"

Mama & Papa Paulson

And another bday...for PK!

2011-09-08T19:34:00.000-07:00

And in that same week, we did a little celebration for Peter at our place. I baked him a cake (and Ann and Peter both had to convince me that they NEVER had a cake baked from scratch for their bday...apparently, Italians don't bake? Always storebought...shameful!!!!).

Anywho, I am not sure we really tasted anything because we did a little more celebrating than we thought with the JD and coke. We even did a "re-do" on Peter's happy birthday song because Ann thought she was recording it...but she wasn't. Shenanigans.

Love spending time with the Kavals, and especially celebrating PK's bday!

The cake (yellow w/chocolate-sour cream frosting)

Peter is pretty shy in front of the camera

Blowing out the candles - part deux

A good pairing

Emma's Rock Star bday

2011-09-08T19:26:00.000-07:00

Weekend before last we headed over to the Hamlins to celebrate Emma's bday. She had a Rockstar theme, so we put Max in some skinny jeans, a mohawk, shades, and headed on over. Leon dressed up as Max's "agent" and handed out his business cards. I was Max's "stylist" and primped him every once in awhile with my bag full of products.

The highlight of the party was Jeff (Emma's Dad) who dressed up as Justin Beiber and gave the kids a performance lipsyncing to the song Baby on the stage that they built for the party.

This was too fun and cute!

Justin Beiber & Max's agent

Max shows he's cooler than the flamingo

Staring the flamingo down

Max & bday girl Emma

The Beibs performs while kids rush the stage!

SC repeat - Day 2 cont.

2011-09-05T22:23:00.000-07:00

And now...for some sand to touch the toes. It wasn't too sunny out, but still warm. Max didn't seem to be such a fan of the beach at first (he couldn't walk well on the sand) but Brett was such the Dad and showed Max the ropes of digging in the sand and breaking in his new sand bucket. Max did fall in love with the Lawrences' outdoor shower though once we were home and he had a total meltdown when I had to pull him out so others could get their turn!

Checking on the waves with Daddy

Chens in the sand

Leon, Max, & Maya

Max with Daddy

Heather takes Maya for a walk

All the kids in the sand hole

Lazy day at the beach for everyone!

SC repeat - Day 2

2011-09-05T22:12:00.000-07:00

Beach Day! Annika & Brett show us what their town is all about...the beach. First, the morning started off with a visit to the pier.

The Hivelys & Lawrences lead the way

The Chens on the pier

Uncle Brett shows Max the surfers while Leon looks on

Max with Dad walking the pier

Max & Wiley look through the pier at the water

SC repeat - Day 1

2011-09-05T22:03:00.000-07:00

The one weekend we were in LA, we did a repeat of the Stanford B-school crew visiting the Lawrences in San Clemente. Unfortunately the Paulsons couldn't join and we missed out on Hank in the action. It was great though to see all the kiddos together. We had so much fun and again had sparks of jealousy for the beachy life that the Lawrences get to live down in SC.

First evening we arrived, Annika's folks gave up their house for us to enjoy a great dinner with a breathtaking view. The kids also enjoyed running around AND the totally rad pool of plastic balls...GREAT idea!

Maya & Max check things out

Max mesmerized by the ceiling fans

Wiley always happy

Leon and Brad round up the kiddos for dinner

Annika takes pics of the pool action

Wiley & Brooks show Max how it's done

End of the day family photo

Miss Paige

2011-09-05T21:41:00.000-07:00

While we were in LA, we got to swing by cousins Eddie & Julie's home in Pasadena so we could visit Max's 1st cousin on the Chen side - Miss Paige!

Is she not adorable? Check her and her momma Julie out. I can't wait until these two get to run circles around each other :)

LA LA Land continued

2011-09-05T21:36:00.000-07:00

Day 3 in LA and Max was getting used to YiYi and Nai Nai's house. In fact, he LOVED the backyard and all the room to run around. After a little watermelon:

Loves watermelon like his momma

It was time to explore the backyard!

Walking around with Daddy

Found something yucky in the garden with Nai Nai

Exploring with YiYi

A pond & a stick = good fun!

All wet even before his bath

Always great to see the Greats!

2011-08-31T21:29:00.000-07:00

Day two in LA we got to meet up with Max's Great Grands for lunch. He didn't disappoint - eating well at lunch and sharing smiles and laughs all around.

It's so nice to see Max getting to spend some time with his Great Grands!

Great Grandma talking to Max

The Great Grandmas with Leon & Max

Great Grandpa & Great Grandma with Max & Leon

NaiNai & YiYi with Max

YiYi shows Max how to drum with chopsticks

LA catch-up

2011-08-31T20:30:00.000-07:00

Yes...it was a long time, but I FINALLY downloaded our pictures from our trip to LA. WHOO HOO.

We left on August 10th and Max did so great on his first plane ride! We arrived at the airport bright and early, taking Max in his PJ's. He got lots of smiles (and of course smiled back) as he was being wheeled around and through security. Then it was time to change into clothes and get ready for his first plane ride!

Tired bear - not too interested in the plane

Relaxing before take off.

Once we landed, Max was uber excited to see his YiYi and Nai Nai at the airport. He was also ready for a nap big time. Once he woke up though, he was tickling the ivories with Dad on the piano.

Pointing fingers like Daddy does

"See Dad?"

Taking a rest to watch Daddy

Encore

The fun didn't stop there. When Max woke up from his second nap of the day he was in for a treat when we visited a local park.

Climbing the slide

So many places to explore!

Covering alot of ground

NaiNai takes some photos

Max finds his YiYi

And then the moon came out

More catch-up to come!

Something to hold you over

2011-08-30T19:15:00.000-07:00

Elmo + Diana Krall + Max = Great dance moves

Have you read the Hunger Games?

2011-08-26T16:04:00.000-07:00

If so, you will understand why I have been absent from my blog. And before that we were on vacay which I have a lot of pics to post from that.

I am on my last book...and then blog catch up time! It's addicting. :)

Peek-a-boo giggles

2011-07-31T17:58:00.000-07:00

A long conversation before bedtime

2011-07-31T11:22:00.000-07:00

Best buds

2011-07-19T16:26:00.000-07:00

On Saturday afternoon, the Paulsons came over to hang out and have some breakfast for dinner (who doesn't love breakfast for dinner?). Henry accompanied me to Max's room to wake him up from his afternoon nap. What a great surprise for Max to have his best bud to play with when he woke up.

Love seeing these two together!

Henry gives Max a big hug

Max loves this!

Henry points out his BFF

Double trouble

Antics

And then we had to break up the wrestling match

A little shower to celebrate the lil' W

2011-07-18T21:40:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we attended a baby shower for our friends Tom & Lisa and their baby boy on the way (due in September). What a fun & cute party! So many awesome details and of course, I only had my iPhone on hand...darn it!

We are so excited to meet little baby Wehrman. Max is gonna' be happy to have a playmate in the neighborhood.

I did snag a couple pics from my friend Tony - here they are :)

Cute onesies on a wire

Max so cool in shades

Lovely cookies

Moms-to-be Jane & Lisa catch up

Max takes a stroll with Dennis

Leon, Max, & Tom

Relaxing Max

2011-07-13T20:06:00.000-07:00

This is a pic of Max off the monitor the other night. If I had known this would turn out on my camera, I would have taken some videos of the antics this kid does before he knocks out for the night!

Love how the leg is hanging outside the crib :)

Night night.

It's Officially Official - Max is walking

2011-07-12T21:20:00.000-07:00

Ever since my Thursday post with Max walking around the house with the phone, Max is truly and officially a walker. He is walking everywhere, even if it still looks funny (he kind of has a Thriller, alligator arms thing going to get his balance). I love to see the smile on his face as he discovers his new skills and the new territory that comes with it!

Here's another video of more of Max's walking skills:

They're baaaaaccckkkk - YeYe & NaiNai return

2011-07-12T20:29:00.000-07:00

Max had such a fun-filled weekend with YeYe & NaiNai. He certainly has a special bond with them and just lights up when they are here. He can not wait to be in YeYe's arms any chance he can get.

Max also showed off his copycat skills to his grandparents - like saying "ahhhhh" after taking a sip from his cup, or wiping your face when you are done eating (or in general), pretending to blow his nose, etc. It's a hoot to watch him and he likes getting the attention so he fakes a laugh too when we are all laughing.

Max had a great time with YeYe & NaiNai. We miss you both and can't wait to see you in LA next month!

Max shows YeYe how he uses the yoga ball for a walker

Touchdown in the hallway with NaiNai

Fun on the swing at the park

Climbed up the play structure all by himself!

"I got this Dad!"

"Let's take a rest"

Walking with Dad & YeYe after lunch

Couldn't let go of the napkin

Wiping YeYe's face after lunch

Multi-tasking

2011-07-07T20:34:00.000-07:00

So I wouldn't call it official yet, but Max is very close to walking. Tonight he wouldn't give up the phone after Leon called. It provided enough of a distraction that he didn't realize he was walking all over the place with it. Max managed to walk from his room, all the way to the living room with it, and then I caught him on video (quality not so great) walking a little more.

He managed to call Leon and a salesperson at Wells fargo...more then once. Oh well! Whatever motivates him to move. Hopefully none of you got any prank calls in which you heard a babbling baby and a barking dog. If so, sorry!

I'm pooped

2011-07-07T20:26:00.000-07:00

Here was Max when I had to wake him up from his afternoon nap after his time at the park with Hank and Angie.

As always though, this kid still wakes up with smiles, even when I have to wake him myself. Luv him :)

Max gets more Henry time

2011-07-06T21:39:00.000-07:00

Since Max couldn't wait to see his BFF Henry again, we invited Angie & Henry to come on over yesterday afternoon for some time in the park. Henry showed his climbing skills while Max had alot of time on the swing and slide with Dad. I can't wait until Max walks so he can keep up with Henry :)

Angie gives Hank a snack (how cute is Ang preggers? I mean...seriously!!! Would you ever guess this woman is having twins?)

Henry on the play structure

"Dad, how come I can't climb up there like Henry?"

Max gives Angie's sunglasses a whirl

Paulson BBQ for the 4th

2011-07-06T20:10:00.000-07:00

The Paulson's threw a lovely 4th of July BBQ on Monday to celebrate Ann's bday, Brett's bday, & the USA! Angie had the cutest decor and her tres leches cupcakes were tres bueno!!! Thanks Paulsons :)

Here are pics from the day:

Max loves it at the Paulsons!

Henry shows Max the ropes

Twin practice

"Let's get a move on...it's HOT!"

Henry has fun on the slide

Peter & Ann on the swings

Max with Leon on the slide

Tom conquers the climbing wall

Pre-dependence day

2011-07-05T15:21:00.000-07:00

On Sunday my fam headed over for a pre-4th BBQ. It was blazing hot at 98 degrees (but not as hot as Stockton as my Mom liked to point out), but we managed to keep cool.

Ma had fun being the center of attention and showed off his new teeth and mobile skills to Grandma & Grandpa.

I am bad at remembering to take pictures, so I didn't get mine out until Max started playing with my sister's cam right before they left. Here's a couple photos of the two of them.

Max & Auntie Nga

Max w/Auntie Nga sans clothes...that's how he rolls

Sunday Funday

2011-06-26T14:34:00.000-07:00

More time at the park today - this time in Redwood City with a cool snail statue that trickled water from the top.

Hope you are enjoying your Sunday afternoon. :)

Soakin' up Saturday

2011-06-25T19:25:00.000-07:00

Today we were suppose to take Max to his first swim lesson. Epic fail. It's a drop-in class and we showed up 10 minutes before class to be told that they had no more room. What to do? Max already had his swim diapers and trunks on and was rearing to go.

Well, as luck would have it, Mitchell Park was right next door. Since it's summer now, the water area was in full force. Even though the water was cold, Max was having a great time and did not want to leave! I can't wait until Max can walk (he's been taking about 3-4 steps at a time now...he's very close) so I can see him play here all summer.

Who needs swimming lessons to have fun? :)

Fun on the swing

Checking things out

In the water area

How's this thing work?

Fun in the water

Daddy day

2011-06-20T23:03:00.000-07:00

Please excuse me while I gush over my hubby and what a great Dad he is. Caring, fun (even if I do sometimes coin you NFD), and full of love for his baby bear Max.

We spent Father's Day eating at Cafe Borrone. Then a shopping trip to the mall (YES, this WAS Leon's request) where I could buy Leon whatever I wanted. Whoo hoo, and we did go crazy at Banana Republic. Leon drew the line at a paisley shirt...I tried I tried. Then we were joined by the Kavals who ~~walked~~ marched on over and shared a couple jack and cokes to top off the night, followed by a fun ride in Leon's new car.

We love you and hope you enjoyed every minute of your Father's Day, because you deserve it!

Max & Leon on Father's Day

This is Max's new trick. Holding something (anything) in his mouth and crawling around....see the examples your dog can set? :)

1 year stats

2011-06-12T19:14:00.000-07:00

No doubt, Max is always at the top of his percentiles!

Max did great at his first year appointment - until the nurse with the "tray of pain" came in. I must say, she sure took her time with the vaccines. However, Max cried a bit with each of the 4 shots and then handled it like a champ.

1st year (and 1 week) stats:

Head - 47cm, 73rd percentile
Height - 30 in, 53rd percentile
Weight - 24 lbs 4 oz, 86th percentile

Playing with his maraca before weigh-in

All good times...for NOW

Spotted something interesting

Wondrous thermometer

Sleepy blog

2011-06-12T18:26:00.000-07:00

I know this blog has been sleepy as of late and I am going to try and be better about posting! Happy Sunday and hope you got to sleep in this morning :)

Bye bye to Ye Ye & Nai Nai

2011-05-25T20:26:00.000-07:00

On Sunday we had to say goodbyes to YeYe and Nai Nai. I can't even begin to explain how much Max's face lights up when he sees his grandparents. He had such fun with them!

We went out to breakfast and to a local park before Ye Ye and Nai Nai had to hit the road. It started getting chilly (I know, right? It's the end of May for goodness sake!) so we made do with what we had in Max's bag in case you're wondering about his crazy outfit...lol.

We miss you Ye Ye and Nai Nai and can't wait to see you again!

Max & Nai Nai

Max & Ye Ye

Fun at the park

One year

2011-05-23T19:59:00.000-07:00

My bear turned one yesterday. Yes, it went fast and yes, I can't believe he is already ONE.

On Saturday we threw a celebration. I really wish I got more pics of the set-up, but we were pretty busy. We did a sweets table with cupcakes, cookies, and milk. Guests got to take cookies home with them as a favor.

I also made a cake just for Max. Unfortunately, he was not a fan (or fortunately?), but it was great to see him dig his hands into it.

Max is getting more fun everyday. He has such a wonderful temperament, loves people, is 95% of the time smiling, and has a curiosity beyond words. I can't imagine our lives without him - LOVE my bear.

Here are some pictures from the party:

The only pic I got of the dessert table

The Grandmas dote on Max

Birthday boy with his cake

Not impressed

Max lets loose after cake

WINNING!

Dad, Max, & Mom

I see the moon

2011-05-10T20:09:00.000-07:00

Ok...this is gonna' be one of Max's blackmail pictures when he's older.

I have not fallen off the face of the earth...just been busy. Big catch up post coming soon.

For now, enjoy my baby's ~~junk in the trunk~~ bum.

Easter Sunday/Mom's Bday

2011-04-27T21:55:00.000-07:00

On Sunday we celebrated Easter by celebrating my Mom's birthday. I can't even begin to tell you how delighted Max was to have his Grandma, Grandpa, and Auntie to himself. I'm going to guess that Max just may be an extrovert....just a guess!

Here's some fun pics from our day and celebration together.

Havin' fun with Grandma

And now a little time with Grandpa & his cool cell phone

More fun with Grandma & Auntie Nga

Max & Aunt Nga

Max opening his Easter basket from Auntie Hong

Yes, German Chocolate cake strikes again per Mom's request

Reading bday cards

Grandma & Max

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T19:53:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a great Easter. We spent ours celebrating my Mom's bday over brunch. Will catch up tomorrow.

In the meantime, here is our mobile Max enjoying the view :)

Baking Therapy - Monkey Bread

2011-04-24T19:17:00.000-07:00

First time making this. Next time, less flour and more time in the oven!

More standing

2011-04-20T21:03:00.000-07:00

Taking a stand...everywhere

2011-04-17T21:07:00.000-07:00

It's hard to leave Max nowadays without coming back to find him pulling himself up on something or getting into something he shouldn't. He's a a fast crawler, and since learning how to stand, he's been exploring alot of new places. He also amazes us sometimes with how easily he can pull himself up - even on just the wall.

Here was our day today:

Climbing up on the pocket door

These handles make good climbing grips

Standing at the front window with Daddy

Where to next? :)

The St. Gemes come on by

2011-04-17T20:47:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, the St. Gemes came over to meet Max and have some dinner. Max showed of his standing, eating, and crawling skills for them. I must say, Max was the happiest ever and was a big flirt with Katie especially. We had a good time and hope to do it again soon with the St. Geme kiddos in tow next time around.

Greg, Katie, & Max

Bath time fun

2011-04-12T23:37:00.000-07:00

Loving the bath (there's that tooth!)

Clapping his hands

Interesting bubbles

Loves his bath toys too

The fam comes for a short visit

2011-04-12T23:29:00.000-07:00

Sunday my Mom & Dad came along with my sister and niece - what a nice surprise! Not only did they bring lunch and gifts for Max, but I must say Mr. Max had a blast with them all. He was so happy with them around and really loving on his grandparents.

Nga, Marissa, & Max play with his new ball

Hmmm...wonder who's the center of attention here?

Grandma hands Max another ball

Cousins! Max with Marissa

The Utleys come to play

2011-04-12T23:14:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we were graced by a visit from Jeremy & Michelle. Boy did Max just LOVE Jeremy, I think they match energy levels. Of course he put on a good face for them even though poor thing was sick...I tell ya', this kid makes us into liars.

Max having fun with Jeremy

Max & Jeremy look in surprise at Michelle

Michelle, Jeremy, & Max before bedtime

New bear tricks!

2011-04-05T21:56:00.000-07:00

Just in the past few days Max has learned some new tricks!

- Pulling up into a stand
- Clapping
- High fives
- Standing in his crib (and finding out the crib rail makes a great teether)
- Kissing sounds (that sound more like clicking...but we'll take it!)

He also copies us alot and can say Mama, Dada, ba-ba (Buh bye or bottle?) - but we're not sure if he comprehends what this means yet.

Gooooooo Maxy Bear! :)

Did ya feel that?

2011-04-05T21:51:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we were so lucky to get to attend a San Jose Earthquakes game..as V.I.P.'s! The Kavals invited us along (Dave is the President of the Quakes now..woot woot) and not only were the seats incredible, we had a blast. The Paulsons came and the Kaval's momma Paula too (she is a HOOT...LOVE her).

Ang and I couldn't stop talking about how fun it is going to be when the boys would be old enough to enjoy a game. :) What a great night out. Thanks again Kavals for the great tix and great company!

View from the seats = awesome!

Brett, Leon, & Peter pose (but not for my camera)

Angie, me, Ann, Paula

Leon and ~~weird glitter smurf~~ the Quakes mascot

The guys enjoying the game (notice that Brett & Peter wore matching jackets...how cute!)

Jampol Baby Shower

2011-04-05T21:37:00.000-07:00

The Jampols are bringing a baby girl into this world in just a couple weeks! On Saturday we were privileged to attend the baby shower hosted by the Hamlins and the Hadarys (same friends who hosted our shower last year).

I loved one of the highlights of the shower which was a jeopardy game between Melita & Thad. Will their little one take on this trait? :)

So happy for them both! I can't wait to meet her.

Here's a link to the photos: http://www1.snapfish.com/snapfish/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=4090544015/a=2290406_2290406/otsc=SHR/otsi=SALBlink/COBRAND_NAME=snapfish/

Max laughing & squealing

2011-03-28T22:18:00.000-07:00

Caught a little bit of Max laughing on video with Leon. This is obviously pre-haircut (which he is on his third already!)

Meal time

2011-03-28T21:42:00.000-07:00

Veggies & pasta sure taste good

What? You ran out? (BTW, can see Max's tooth in this pic!)

Washing it down with some water & puffs

Ye Ye & Nai Nai are back

2011-03-22T19:57:00.000-07:00

This weekend we were blessed by a visit from the LA 'rents! Max couldn't have been more happy to see his grandparents and I am sure I can say they felt the same. He was such a ham the entire time and had no trouble showing off his mobile skills. Although it rained all weekend, it was so nice to get to spend time together.

I heart this!!! Max and YeYe

Max & YeYe catch up on Oprah

Nai Nai, Max, & Ye Ye

Max & Nai Nai

Baking Therapy - Lemon Bars

2011-03-13T21:22:00.000-07:00

On Monday nights I am taking an HR certification class. Last week, one of the instructors brought a whole lot of lemons from her meyer lemon tree. I took whatever the rest of the class didn't and promised to bring back lemon bars. Even though it's been a tiring day, I pulled through with these. :)

Happy Birthday Dad!

2011-03-13T20:42:00.000-07:00

Today, my parents and sister came over for a mini-celebration of my Dad's birthday. We all enjoyed some Fred Steak and fixings while Max was hamming it up for everyone. I think the best gift was time with Max :)

Happy Birthday Dad!

The finished cake (I added some chocolate drizzle this morning)

A tired Max & Grandpa

Reading b-day cards together

Max liked the Best Buy giftcard

Baking Therapy - German Chocolate Cake

2011-03-13T20:35:00.000-07:00

My Dad's birthday is tomorrow, so today we threw a mini celebration for him. That calls for his favorite cake: German Chocolate. I love German Chocolate too, so it's a win for everyone!

Totally Rad Rummage Sale Party

2011-03-13T19:44:00.000-07:00

On Friday, Angie invited me to the pre-rummage sale party for Junior League of San Jose. The theme was Rock through the ages, and we went 80's. Though you can't see it well in this picture, Angie got me a lovely neon pink headband with a giant lace bow - awesome! You probably can't see it because my hair is so big. Angie managed to look cute while I managed to look crazy. Thanks for a fun time with good deals, Ang!

Blog blast & a break through

2011-03-13T19:38:00.000-07:00

Ok, alot of catching up today, but first let's start with a break-through. Max got his first tooth yesterday! I noticed it right before we were doing laundry together :)

Get to folding, Max!

Two lil' helpers

Second haircut

2011-03-08T22:07:00.000-08:00

Max got his second haircut on Sunday, but I don't think he was a fan...

trim up the sides

"This is lame, Mom!"

Mama prayers

2011-03-08T21:52:00.000-08:00

It's true...your life does change when becoming a Mom.

And even if you aren't a religious person, you'll find that as your little one grows, you start praying for things. Things like:

baby to sleep
baby to poop
baby to eat
you to sleep
baby to stop pooping
you to eat
baby to stop crying
husband to hear baby crying
baby to smile
you to smile
baby to crawl
baby to stop crawling
baby to get teeth
baby to stop teething
a break
more time with baby
baby to love you

After Max awakes, we come in to a babbling, smiling baby, waiting for us in his crib...

and I pray that moments like these last a little longer :)

Friends-all-around Saturday

2011-03-08T20:32:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, the Paulsons had the Kavals and Chens over for brunch. Can we say yummy? Second servings of eggs all around. Thanks Paulsons!

We took a walk around the neighborhood, and Brett rolled the boys along in their cool wagon (not Peter & Leon...I'm talking about Max & Hank!).

Here's the pics...

Max checks out Henry's books

Seriously - how cute is this???

Ridin' along

Can you tell Max is sleepy?

Henry picking flowers for the girls

9 Month stats

2011-03-04T19:17:00.000-08:00

Nine months have flown by. Max has grown into a mobile babbling machine. He's a pretty chill & happy baby, and still a big boy :)

Thank goodness the 9 month check-up doesn't involve vaccines. Max sure knows how to make us into liars though. We asked the doc to check his ears or teeth-to-be as he had been fussy three nights in a row before we went to the appointment. Max just laughed and smiled, even when the doc was gagging him with the tongue depressor. (Ears all clear and no teeth yet). "Sure he's fussy," she said with a smile.

Then when she asked does he babble and say dada, gaga, baba, etc. or have stranger anxiety - with perfect timing Max squealed and started babbling right to the doc. Guess he knows how to babble, and a fat NO on the stranger anxiety.

Here's his stats:

Head circumference: 46.5cm - 80th percentile
Height: 29in. - 71st percentile
Weight: 23lbs, 5oz. - 85th percentile

Lisa's 50th Bday party

2011-02-27T10:56:00.000-08:00

Last night we headed over to Kingfish in San Mateo to celebrate my coworker Lisa's 50th bday! It was a New Orleans/voodoo lounge theme and it really felt like we were in a lounge in the French Quarter somewhere. We enjoyed a slideshow, a band called "Swamp Voodoo", and good drinks and food.

Hope my 50th is as fun!

The cake! It's a replica of Lisa & Steve's 2nd house in Mendocino

Steve looks on as Lisa blows out her candles

Steve & Lisa

The band

The basement where the party was held

Saturday Sun Soak

2011-02-27T10:46:00.000-08:00

Tank enjoying the morning sun

Ahhhhh....so relaxing!

And then...

Here comes trouble

The Homs hang out on Sunday

2011-02-22T19:18:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, Jimmy, Francie, and their little one Andrew came by for some lunch and a trip to the park. Andrew was uber excited about the park and was sliding down every slide there. Max wasn't to keen on slides yet (he slid down in my lap) but looooves the swing. Unfortunately, we had to cut our park trip short so Max could get back home for his afternoon nap.

Great seeing you guys! Hope to hang out again soon.

Andrew shows Max how to stack cups

Max & Andrew

More fun with toy demos

Tom & Lisa visit - blasts from the past!

2011-02-22T19:11:00.000-08:00

On Saturday we were graced by a visit from Tom and his wife Lisa. It has been SO LONG since we have seen Tom. He was a friend from Leon's PhD days at Stanford and was even a groomsmen in our wedding! I remember when Tom and Leon could talk for hours about science, and then I would tune out and turn on trash TV (we used to be roommates).

Now Tom is all domesticated with a new wife and a new home not that far away. (I should mention Lisa is not new to us, but we actually know her through our friend Joma as those two went to MIT together). We hope to see more of Tom and Lisa in the near future because we talked for hours and had a great time. Also, Max turned on all the charm for these two and was smiling and laughing from the time he woke up from his nap to the time he went to bed. Except for in these photos :)

Tom & Lisa with our kids

Max (spaced out), Tom, Lisa, & Tank

Ain't no stopping him now...

2011-02-18T19:27:00.000-08:00

He's on the move!

Max is officially mobile. Tonight he was all over the place and left a trail of toys behind him. It's so fun to see the look of determination on his face as he explores with his newfound mobility. Although he was super tired, he was pretty upset that I had to pick him up to start the bedtime routine. He'd rather be crawling everywhere!

And now - who wants to volunteer for babyproofing? Anyone? :)

The look of determination - "I WILL get that bus!"

Victory!

Uh oh...the bus got away

And we're on the move again

"I see you bus..."

Let's take a rest

"Ah ha...gotcha"

Epitome of cuteness

2011-02-16T20:33:00.000-08:00

Currently listening to: The Cave - Mumford & Sons

I'm talking about Hank. This kiddo with my kiddo equals UBER cuteness!!! Hank around Max just kills me. He wants to touch him, hug him, and lay on him. Wait until these two are wrestling and running!

Tonight, gracious Angie came with Hank and brought dinner too. Leon and Brett are both traveling so it was so nice to get to see her and Henry while our hubbies are away. She also brought this cute musical toy that got Max REALLY moving. He is so close to crawling, but even if not in a full-on crawl, he is getting around pretty efficiently now. Even Hank didn't know what to make of this..except to try and lay on his ~~butt~~ back :)

Thanks for coming over guys!!! Max is missing his buddy Hank already.

More Max scooting action

2011-02-15T21:48:00.001-08:00

Valentines catch-up

2011-02-15T20:40:00.000-08:00

Since Leon was traveling this week (starting yesterday) he surprised me with a dinner out on Friday to Evvia sans Max. I also got a nice surprise yesterday at work when Leon sent a cookie basket. Thanks honey!

Unfortunately Valentines Day brought me a bad cold! Ugh...Poor Max caught a cold (not sure if that is where mine came from) so I have been up at night with him helping to clear his poor little nose.

I was desperate to clear my own sinuses, (I didn't want to drug myself up at night so I could be awake for Max) so I bought a Neti Pot. At first I was freaked out...was this like waterboarding or what? But let me tell ya, it works!

So, Neti Pot was a Valentines Day gift to myself.

Hope everyone enjoyed their Valentines Day - breathing freely!

Max in action

2011-02-14T16:45:00.000-08:00

Try to ignore the cow toy moo-ing as Tank plays...lol. Here is Max scooting, but still not in a full crawl yet. We use an extra remote (without batteries) as motivation.

Swinging in the park

2011-02-13T15:00:00.000-08:00

Max woke up early from his afternoon nap yesterday, so we decided to head out to the park to kill time before bedtime and dinner. He had a swinging good time...but then it got too cold for us so we bundled up and headed back home.

Swinging into sunset

Fun pushes from daddy

Now that's the spirit