Friday, 31 October 2008
I managed to catch glimpses of the Halloween parade at my school while I was holed up in my classroom writing a grant. Some kids couldn't figure out what I was dressed up as today, while others said I looked too nice as a pirate. Chase was the only one at daycare who wore his costume for half an hour without ripping it off. He came home with a bunch of goodies - much more than I would have thought a one year old would get for Halloween.
Tonight, we dropped him off at Kahala Mall with the Halsalls so that we could go out. We figured he's too young to understand Halloween yet. Chris and I went as pirates again and headed to the Honolulu Academy of Arts for their annual Halloween party/Art After Dark. We met friends there, ate, walked through museums, and danced. We saw two Juno couples. That was cute, especially since we just watched the movie last week. It wasn't too late of a night. Our "Incredible Hulk" was fast asleep by the time we picked him up. For a one year old who didn't go trick or treating, Chase sure did end up with a lot of candy! And, he stayed asleep until 7:30 am the next morning!
Friday, October 31, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Uncle Gary had the avocado tree trimmed since it was going into the neighbor's yard. This huge tree has been giving us grocery bags full of plump avocados for years. We used to climb up and play with my cousins on top of the roof of the carport when we were little. Now, you can actually look up and see the blue sky through the branches of the tree.
Arrgghh!!!
Wednesday, 29 October 2008
5 pm Chase and I get home from daycare and take a shower.
5:30 pm Chris gets home from work and feeds Chase while I get ready
6:15 pm We head to Kahala Mall with pirate costumes
6:20 pm I think I should head to school to get paper to make pirate ship. Chris doesn't think I have time. I go anyway.
6:40 pm Back at the mall with construction paper, scissors, glue, and tape (So glad my school is across the street from the mall!) and we sit on the floor and start constructing while Chase is entertained by the Halsalls
7:00 pm Get takeout from Panda's and eat on the floor of the mall amongst the hundreds of dressed up kiddies
7:45 pm After the "Under 1", "1-2", "2-3", "3-4", "Kindergarten-Gr.1", we're finally up: "Family/Group"
Running around in the afternoon for last minute outfits, and rushing to school in the complete darkness to grab construction paper to fashion a boat around the stroller, worked out well since we won 3rd place at Kahala Mall's annual Halloween costume contest tonight. We figured Chase didn't have a fancy enough costume (You can't just put the kid in a simple store bought costume) to enter him as an individual for his own age category.
So we decided to enter the "Family/Group" category. That worked better for us since there were only about 10 other competitors compared to about 50 in his age category. Though there was another set of pirates, I think we won because we had a lot of pirate paraphernalia (It WAS probably the gigantic skull-n-crossbones flag and red skull adorning the stroller that clinched it. Though the last minute life preserver and anchor were nice touches as well.).
And when the emcee asked me for a comment, all I could say was, "This kid's ready to jump ship." And he sure was. It was way past his bedtime (8:30 pm) and he was about ready to lose it by the time we got off the stage. Some of my parents and students and the Halsalls were there taking pictures. Guess we'll have to save our Popeye-Olive Oyl-Sweet Pea idea for next year. It's worth putting in a little effort for the $65 worth of gift cards we got as our prize. Plus, just seeing all the creative costumes out there was hilarious.
My faves (though I have to admit we were so busy entertaining the kid, eating, and getting the stroller boat ready that I hardly took any photos): The hot air balloon kid, the clown standing on his hands, the kid in a porta-potty, the box of crayons, the King Kamehameha baby in a boat (wagon)- which was so awesome I wanted to borrow it for our costume, the colorful peacock, the Coppertone baby.
Parents go all-out for this competition. It's like they've been sewing and constructing these costumes for a year! So, I was surprised our last-minute put together costume won a prize (We actually spent more money on our costumes than on Chase's since his were pajamas). Thanks to a husband that loves skulls and anything pirate related! Go figure. Arrggghh!!!
5 pm Chase and I get home from daycare and take a shower.
5:30 pm Chris gets home from work and feeds Chase while I get ready
6:15 pm We head to Kahala Mall with pirate costumes
6:20 pm I think I should head to school to get paper to make pirate ship. Chris doesn't think I have time. I go anyway.
6:40 pm Back at the mall with construction paper, scissors, glue, and tape (So glad my school is across the street from the mall!) and we sit on the floor and start constructing while Chase is entertained by the Halsalls
7:00 pm Get takeout from Panda's and eat on the floor of the mall amongst the hundreds of dressed up kiddies
7:45 pm After the "Under 1", "1-2", "2-3", "3-4", "Kindergarten-Gr.1", we're finally up: "Family/Group"
Running around in the afternoon for last minute outfits, and rushing to school in the complete darkness to grab construction paper to fashion a boat around the stroller, worked out well since we won 3rd place at Kahala Mall's annual Halloween costume contest tonight. We figured Chase didn't have a fancy enough costume (You can't just put the kid in a simple store bought costume) to enter him as an individual for his own age category.
So we decided to enter the "Family/Group" category. That worked better for us since there were only about 10 other competitors compared to about 50 in his age category. Though there was another set of pirates, I think we won because we had a lot of pirate paraphernalia (It WAS probably the gigantic skull-n-crossbones flag and red skull adorning the stroller that clinched it. Though the last minute life preserver and anchor were nice touches as well.).
And when the emcee asked me for a comment, all I could say was, "This kid's ready to jump ship." And he sure was. It was way past his bedtime (8:30 pm) and he was about ready to lose it by the time we got off the stage. Some of my parents and students and the Halsalls were there taking pictures. Guess we'll have to save our Popeye-Olive Oyl-Sweet Pea idea for next year. It's worth putting in a little effort for the $65 worth of gift cards we got as our prize. Plus, just seeing all the creative costumes out there was hilarious.
My faves (though I have to admit we were so busy entertaining the kid, eating, and getting the stroller boat ready that I hardly took any photos): The hot air balloon kid, the clown standing on his hands, the kid in a porta-potty, the box of crayons, the King Kamehameha baby in a boat (wagon)- which was so awesome I wanted to borrow it for our costume, the colorful peacock, the Coppertone baby.
Parents go all-out for this competition. It's like they've been sewing and constructing these costumes for a year! So, I was surprised our last-minute put together costume won a prize (We actually spent more money on our costumes than on Chase's since his were pajamas). Thanks to a husband that loves skulls and anything pirate related! Go figure. Arrggghh!!!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
First Dentist Visit
Tuesday, 28 October 2008
Chase had an excellent first visit with a pediatric dentist today. Though we got a list of recommended dentists from our doctor, we chose Dr. Emily Bordner because Chris and I both worked with her as Summer Fun leaders when we were in college. Plus, she got some good reviews from other Honolulu Mommies. So, we went to see her today. Chase wasn't quite sure what the whole thing was about and who these strange people were, so he sat on my lap in the dentist chair.
As soon as she reclined us in the chair, he looked up towards the ceiling and saw Curious George on the TV overhead. He was entranced! He opened his mouth while Dr. Bordner looked at his teeth. He didn't even move. She said, "Well I usually don't clean teeth at this age, but hey, let's try." So, she proceeded to brush his teeth, and he still didn't move. He was so good! She said his teeth look fine, but to try to brush them after middle-of-the-night feedings. He's just waiting for his canines to come in, and he should have his full set of teeth. Since he got his teeth early, he may lose his teeth earlier. But, everything looks good!
They took his picture and we left with a postcard of his first dentist visit, along with a new toothbrush, which he just loves of course.
Chase had an excellent first visit with a pediatric dentist today. Though we got a list of recommended dentists from our doctor, we chose Dr. Emily Bordner because Chris and I both worked with her as Summer Fun leaders when we were in college. Plus, she got some good reviews from other Honolulu Mommies. So, we went to see her today. Chase wasn't quite sure what the whole thing was about and who these strange people were, so he sat on my lap in the dentist chair.
As soon as she reclined us in the chair, he looked up towards the ceiling and saw Curious George on the TV overhead. He was entranced! He opened his mouth while Dr. Bordner looked at his teeth. He didn't even move. She said, "Well I usually don't clean teeth at this age, but hey, let's try." So, she proceeded to brush his teeth, and he still didn't move. He was so good! She said his teeth look fine, but to try to brush them after middle-of-the-night feedings. He's just waiting for his canines to come in, and he should have his full set of teeth. Since he got his teeth early, he may lose his teeth earlier. But, everything looks good!
They took his picture and we left with a postcard of his first dentist visit, along with a new toothbrush, which he just loves of course.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Chase is 16 Months Old!
Monday, 27 October 2008
Chase got a happy report from Aunty Susie's daycare today. He went down for his nap easier today (less crying), and she said that everytime she looked at him, he reminded her of her new hapa (half Caucasian/half Asian) grandson who has such a good disposition like Chase.
Though he has been sick a lot this past month (no swimming and water play outside in over a month now!), with 2 ear infections, a cough, and 2 rounds of antibiotics, he has managed to keep his smile most of the time.
Chase's Latest Things:
* Still breastfeeding (yeah, the illnesses have really interrupted our weaning process)
* Dancing & Clapping his hands
* Wearing shoes (whenever he's ready to go somewhere, he brings us his shoes and sticks his feet out so we can put them on him)
* Throwing tantrums (uh-oh....Could this be a sign of the "Terrible Two's"?? Especially this week, he's been throwing a fit when he doesn't get his way or something he wants)
* Sleeping 12 hours each night (all the way through...It's a dream really...Amazing. Makes me actually not mind the tantrums so much because I am not so tired to deal with them. I can actually clean up, have "Me Time", watch a movie with Chris, AND check email/blog BEFORE I go to bed at a decent hour when Chase goes to bed so early (Since returning from California, he's pushed up his bedtime to 6:30 - 7 pm.)
* Mimicking with detail: He's always mimicked our actions and routines - brushing hair, reading newspaper/magazines, using the remote control, dancing, etc. - But, now he's starting to pay attention to more detail. He'll mimick the little sounds I make to imitate an animal (saying "Mmmmm" for "Moo" and "Buh Buh" for "Baaa" and "ticka ticka ticka" for a gecko crawling on the glass).
* Rolling his tongue (He likes trying to copy me when I roll my tongue. Since Daddy can't do it, I wanted to see if Chase got the genetic trait. Sure enough he did, though he can roll his fancier than I can.)
* Putting things in things - transferring objects from one container to another - and twisting lids/covers on and off things
* Saying "Yes", and really enunciating that "s" at the end. He used to just say "Yeah" all the time. The other day I asked him if he wanted to go home, and he replied, "Yesss". I turned around and asked, "What did you say?". Ever since he's been enunciating his "s"s, and it's really cute.
He's still a very happy-go-lucky kid, but I've noticed that he's definitely got Mommy & Daddy's stubborn temper and Mommy's frustration with perfectionism. If he can't fit a block into a toy or its correct space, he'll get really frustrated and just fling it across the room. He's not doing his signs, like "All done", as much anymore. So, it's hard to communicate with him. When he gets frustrated trying to communicate something he wants, he starts freaking out.
Chase has got almost a full set of teeth (He's going to visit a pediatric dentist for the very first time tomorrow!), loves smiling, laughing, and dancing, and still has an appetite like his Mommy!
Chase got a happy report from Aunty Susie's daycare today. He went down for his nap easier today (less crying), and she said that everytime she looked at him, he reminded her of her new hapa (half Caucasian/half Asian) grandson who has such a good disposition like Chase.
Though he has been sick a lot this past month (no swimming and water play outside in over a month now!), with 2 ear infections, a cough, and 2 rounds of antibiotics, he has managed to keep his smile most of the time.
Chase's Latest Things:
* Still breastfeeding (yeah, the illnesses have really interrupted our weaning process)
* Dancing & Clapping his hands
* Wearing shoes (whenever he's ready to go somewhere, he brings us his shoes and sticks his feet out so we can put them on him)
* Throwing tantrums (uh-oh....Could this be a sign of the "Terrible Two's"?? Especially this week, he's been throwing a fit when he doesn't get his way or something he wants)
* Sleeping 12 hours each night (all the way through...It's a dream really...Amazing. Makes me actually not mind the tantrums so much because I am not so tired to deal with them. I can actually clean up, have "Me Time", watch a movie with Chris, AND check email/blog BEFORE I go to bed at a decent hour when Chase goes to bed so early (Since returning from California, he's pushed up his bedtime to 6:30 - 7 pm.)
* Mimicking with detail: He's always mimicked our actions and routines - brushing hair, reading newspaper/magazines, using the remote control, dancing, etc. - But, now he's starting to pay attention to more detail. He'll mimick the little sounds I make to imitate an animal (saying "Mmmmm" for "Moo" and "Buh Buh" for "Baaa" and "ticka ticka ticka" for a gecko crawling on the glass).
* Rolling his tongue (He likes trying to copy me when I roll my tongue. Since Daddy can't do it, I wanted to see if Chase got the genetic trait. Sure enough he did, though he can roll his fancier than I can.)
* Putting things in things - transferring objects from one container to another - and twisting lids/covers on and off things
* Saying "Yes", and really enunciating that "s" at the end. He used to just say "Yeah" all the time. The other day I asked him if he wanted to go home, and he replied, "Yesss". I turned around and asked, "What did you say?". Ever since he's been enunciating his "s"s, and it's really cute.
He's still a very happy-go-lucky kid, but I've noticed that he's definitely got Mommy & Daddy's stubborn temper and Mommy's frustration with perfectionism. If he can't fit a block into a toy or its correct space, he'll get really frustrated and just fling it across the room. He's not doing his signs, like "All done", as much anymore. So, it's hard to communicate with him. When he gets frustrated trying to communicate something he wants, he starts freaking out.
Chase has got almost a full set of teeth (He's going to visit a pediatric dentist for the very first time tomorrow!), loves smiling, laughing, and dancing, and still has an appetite like his Mommy!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Taking Care of The Boys
Thursday, 23 October 2008
Chris stayed home from work today, and I made him an appointment to see a doctor. He never skips work, and he never sees doctors, so he must be really sick. By the afternoon, he was on an IV for dehydration, and he was given a lot of medication. Turns out he's got the flu.
Chase felt miserable today. After I picked him up from the Halsalls, he was just glued to me like an 'opihi (limpet). He nursed all afternoon. When he wasn't nursing, he was screaming inconsolably. I think his ears really hurt. Poor thing. He read a few books and played in handfuls of rice during dinner before playing in the bath. He did laugh and smile a bit tracking the geckos crawling on the window jealousies. He would copy me and say "Tick, tick, tick" and stick out his tongue to show how they eat bugs. During the chaos, I managed to cook a huge pot of homemade chicken noodle soup. But, again, it's 8 pm, the house is quiet, the sick boys are asleep, and I have a nice quiet meal to myself.
Guess it's time for "Grey's Anatomy."
Chris stayed home from work today, and I made him an appointment to see a doctor. He never skips work, and he never sees doctors, so he must be really sick. By the afternoon, he was on an IV for dehydration, and he was given a lot of medication. Turns out he's got the flu.
Chase felt miserable today. After I picked him up from the Halsalls, he was just glued to me like an 'opihi (limpet). He nursed all afternoon. When he wasn't nursing, he was screaming inconsolably. I think his ears really hurt. Poor thing. He read a few books and played in handfuls of rice during dinner before playing in the bath. He did laugh and smile a bit tracking the geckos crawling on the window jealousies. He would copy me and say "Tick, tick, tick" and stick out his tongue to show how they eat bugs. During the chaos, I managed to cook a huge pot of homemade chicken noodle soup. But, again, it's 8 pm, the house is quiet, the sick boys are asleep, and I have a nice quiet meal to myself.
Guess it's time for "Grey's Anatomy."
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
A Long Day
Wednesday, 22 October 2008
Well, we found out the hard way that nebulizing Chase in the late afternoon is NOT a good idea. At all.
We all got only a few hours of sleep. It was like Chase was a newborn again. (Oh how I do NOT miss those days.)
Chase was cranky and hyper in the middle of the night. I tried nursing, fed him 1 1/2 containers of poi at 1:30 am, almost slept on the couch because he was kicking Chris in the face when I had him in the bed, and when we went into the living room, he just wanted to play with all of his toys.
Our crazy night made for a long day today. Chris put Chase to bed at 6:50 pm tonight. Chris skipped dinner and was in bed by 7 pm.
It was actually nice to have a quiet evening. I watched back to back episodes of "Jon & Kate Plus 8" while eating leftovers. I fell asleep by 9.
Well, we found out the hard way that nebulizing Chase in the late afternoon is NOT a good idea. At all.
We all got only a few hours of sleep. It was like Chase was a newborn again. (Oh how I do NOT miss those days.)
Chase was cranky and hyper in the middle of the night. I tried nursing, fed him 1 1/2 containers of poi at 1:30 am, almost slept on the couch because he was kicking Chris in the face when I had him in the bed, and when we went into the living room, he just wanted to play with all of his toys.
Our crazy night made for a long day today. Chris put Chase to bed at 6:50 pm tonight. Chris skipped dinner and was in bed by 7 pm.
It was actually nice to have a quiet evening. I watched back to back episodes of "Jon & Kate Plus 8" while eating leftovers. I fell asleep by 9.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Nebulizing
Tuesday, 21 October 2008
After a nice lunch with Kai after work, I picked up Chase from the Halsalls and took him to the doctor's. His coughing and wheezing, congestion, and fever have been lingering. After the doctor's visit (where Dr. Sia said, "At least he's a good sick kid," because you wouldn't know he's sick based on how active he is), we picked up the "kitchen sink" of medicines. I paid $136 (thank goodness the pharmacy called and said I could get most of it refunded with the insurance approval of the equipment I had to pay for upfront) for a whole shopping bag full of stuff.
Now, Chase has antibiotics and the same cough medicine routine he had last month. Plus, Dr. Sia went a little more aggressive and put him on a nebulizer. I was familiar with this machine since Miya's son Taiga uses one. Basically, we put Albuterol (used to treat asthma, though we have no history of asthma in our family) in the machine and it steams out the medicine into his nose and mouth through a fishy mask. It will help him to get rid of the bad cough. We can use it any time we want to attack the cough more aggressively.
The doc advised us to use it as soon as we got home since the medicine can cause hyperactivity. Thankfully, Chase went to bed at his usually time (probably from exhaustion since he hated the mask and and all that stuff blowing in his face.)
After a nice lunch with Kai after work, I picked up Chase from the Halsalls and took him to the doctor's. His coughing and wheezing, congestion, and fever have been lingering. After the doctor's visit (where Dr. Sia said, "At least he's a good sick kid," because you wouldn't know he's sick based on how active he is), we picked up the "kitchen sink" of medicines. I paid $136 (thank goodness the pharmacy called and said I could get most of it refunded with the insurance approval of the equipment I had to pay for upfront) for a whole shopping bag full of stuff.
Now, Chase has antibiotics and the same cough medicine routine he had last month. Plus, Dr. Sia went a little more aggressive and put him on a nebulizer. I was familiar with this machine since Miya's son Taiga uses one. Basically, we put Albuterol (used to treat asthma, though we have no history of asthma in our family) in the machine and it steams out the medicine into his nose and mouth through a fishy mask. It will help him to get rid of the bad cough. We can use it any time we want to attack the cough more aggressively.
The doc advised us to use it as soon as we got home since the medicine can cause hyperactivity. Thankfully, Chase went to bed at his usually time (probably from exhaustion since he hated the mask and and all that stuff blowing in his face.)
Sunday, October 19, 2008
A Growth Spurt
Sunday, 19 October 2008
This past week has gone quite well since we got back from vacation. The house was a mess (since I was so stressed and frazzled upon leaving). But, somehow I've found time to clean up a bit. Chase started his new daycare at someone's house this week. He was still getting over a cold. But, he did fine on Wednesday and Friday. He loves "Auntie Susie's" dogs (which often distract him to make the transition easier when Chris drops him off in the morning), he's a great eater, and he gets along with the other kids. The only thing we're working on is napping. He's such a light sleeper, that he has to get used to taking a nap in a separate room. The first day, he didn't take one until after 12:30 pm, a couple hours later than he usually does. The second day, he took a short one, but she had to let him cry it out for about 10 minutes before he finally went down.
Even though Chris has to wake up an hour and a half earlier than he usually does (we actually get up around the same time now!), having two carseats definitely helps with the picking up/dropping off. Besides, it's about time Chris woke up early!
We think Chase is going through some sort of growth spurt. This past week, he's been eating huge amounts of food at each meal. Plus he snacks throughout the day on Cheerios, cheese, crackers, and yogurt. He's also been (but I don't want to "bachi" (jinx) it) SLEEPING THROUGH THE NIGHT! And in a major way! He'll usually take an afternoon nap (one day this week it was even for two hours!), and then he goes down around 6:30 - 7 pm (a little earlier than usual). He doesn't wake up until 6:30 - 7 pm. A couple times, we've had to wake him up to leave the house.
I don't nurse him in the morning or at bedtime. For some reason, he wants to nurse in the late afternoon. So I usually nurse him once a day, around 4:30 pm.
He's also going through a major tooth spurt. He's got nearly all his bottom teeth in, including his molars in the back. It seems like his top molars are coming in quickly too. It's like he's sprouting new teeth daily!
We've never seen him eat or sleep so much before. Perhaps he's just getting older. Is this what happens when babies (I mean, toddlers) get older?! Wow. I like it.
It's been a productive week as well. Went out to dinner one night to celebrate my teacher friend's upcoming nuptials. It was a short three day work week, so it was a nice way to transition back into the teaching routine. I had to play mediator at a Professional Development Day on Friday for one of our grade level teams that have difficulty getting along. Had the windows guy come over and give me suggestions on getting our deck fixed and our windows updated. I also went to Bikram yoga 3 times this week. I would have gone a fourth time, but they were putting in new carpet at the studio on Thursday so the studio was closed. I'm still working out the stiffness in my neck and shoulders. My practice is still not tip-top shape, but if I can go 4 times a week like I used to, I should be good.
Today, we had to cancel from going to a 1st year birthday party for my Honolulu Mommies friend. I was so looking forward to taking Chase to the Water Adventure Park too, but he still has a cough and a runny nose (and for some reason had a low-grade fever yesterday), so we opted out. We took Chase to see the pumpkin patch instead. Though he was a little groggy from his nap when we got there and wasn't quite sure what all the pumpkins were about, he did enjoy picking up hay and he liked the goats and rabbits in the petting zoo. Got some good pictures and quickly chose three pumpkins for us to take home and hurried our dusty selves back to the car because it started raining. We stopped at a store to look at Halloween costumes. We already got Chase an Incredible Hulk one, but I'm still not convinced that's the one for him. Chris and I hope to have a date night on Halloween, so we're trying to figure out a couple costume for ourselves. Popeye & Olive Oyl? Pirate & Pirate Maiden? Salt & Pepper? Hmmm...things to ponder this next week.
Although we didn't agree on costumes, we did agree on one thing: Chase may be going through a growth spurt these days, but he's not quite old enough to enjoy things like a pumpkin patch. Let's hope he enjoys Halloween enough this year to even let us dress him in a costume! (Yeah, good luck!)
This past week has gone quite well since we got back from vacation. The house was a mess (since I was so stressed and frazzled upon leaving). But, somehow I've found time to clean up a bit. Chase started his new daycare at someone's house this week. He was still getting over a cold. But, he did fine on Wednesday and Friday. He loves "Auntie Susie's" dogs (which often distract him to make the transition easier when Chris drops him off in the morning), he's a great eater, and he gets along with the other kids. The only thing we're working on is napping. He's such a light sleeper, that he has to get used to taking a nap in a separate room. The first day, he didn't take one until after 12:30 pm, a couple hours later than he usually does. The second day, he took a short one, but she had to let him cry it out for about 10 minutes before he finally went down.
Even though Chris has to wake up an hour and a half earlier than he usually does (we actually get up around the same time now!), having two carseats definitely helps with the picking up/dropping off. Besides, it's about time Chris woke up early!
We think Chase is going through some sort of growth spurt. This past week, he's been eating huge amounts of food at each meal. Plus he snacks throughout the day on Cheerios, cheese, crackers, and yogurt. He's also been (but I don't want to "bachi" (jinx) it) SLEEPING THROUGH THE NIGHT! And in a major way! He'll usually take an afternoon nap (one day this week it was even for two hours!), and then he goes down around 6:30 - 7 pm (a little earlier than usual). He doesn't wake up until 6:30 - 7 pm. A couple times, we've had to wake him up to leave the house.
I don't nurse him in the morning or at bedtime. For some reason, he wants to nurse in the late afternoon. So I usually nurse him once a day, around 4:30 pm.
He's also going through a major tooth spurt. He's got nearly all his bottom teeth in, including his molars in the back. It seems like his top molars are coming in quickly too. It's like he's sprouting new teeth daily!
We've never seen him eat or sleep so much before. Perhaps he's just getting older. Is this what happens when babies (I mean, toddlers) get older?! Wow. I like it.
It's been a productive week as well. Went out to dinner one night to celebrate my teacher friend's upcoming nuptials. It was a short three day work week, so it was a nice way to transition back into the teaching routine. I had to play mediator at a Professional Development Day on Friday for one of our grade level teams that have difficulty getting along. Had the windows guy come over and give me suggestions on getting our deck fixed and our windows updated. I also went to Bikram yoga 3 times this week. I would have gone a fourth time, but they were putting in new carpet at the studio on Thursday so the studio was closed. I'm still working out the stiffness in my neck and shoulders. My practice is still not tip-top shape, but if I can go 4 times a week like I used to, I should be good.
Today, we had to cancel from going to a 1st year birthday party for my Honolulu Mommies friend. I was so looking forward to taking Chase to the Water Adventure Park too, but he still has a cough and a runny nose (and for some reason had a low-grade fever yesterday), so we opted out. We took Chase to see the pumpkin patch instead. Though he was a little groggy from his nap when we got there and wasn't quite sure what all the pumpkins were about, he did enjoy picking up hay and he liked the goats and rabbits in the petting zoo. Got some good pictures and quickly chose three pumpkins for us to take home and hurried our dusty selves back to the car because it started raining. We stopped at a store to look at Halloween costumes. We already got Chase an Incredible Hulk one, but I'm still not convinced that's the one for him. Chris and I hope to have a date night on Halloween, so we're trying to figure out a couple costume for ourselves. Popeye & Olive Oyl? Pirate & Pirate Maiden? Salt & Pepper? Hmmm...things to ponder this next week.
Although we didn't agree on costumes, we did agree on one thing: Chase may be going through a growth spurt these days, but he's not quite old enough to enjoy things like a pumpkin patch. Let's hope he enjoys Halloween enough this year to even let us dress him in a costume! (Yeah, good luck!)
Sunday, October 12, 2008
No Sleep Actually Isn't So Bad (Sometimes....)
Sunday, 12 October 2008
After a fun-filled week of entertaining Chase and trying to get him to sleep at night (staying at three different places in 8 days didn't help provide any routine for the poor little guy), visiting relatives, aquariums, and enjoying long car rides, we were exhausted and ready to board the plane - especially because we all got about three hours of sleep last night. Perhaps our neighbors did too because the hotel rooms on either side of us both had their "Privacy Please" signs on their doors when we checked out of the hotel.
Chase was such a social bug this trip and would go with any of my relatives without us. I think he thought he ruled the hotel. After playing with his cousins and saying bye bye, my Auntie Shelley drove us to San Francisco Airport. We knew we had a long road ahead of us, with heading into the city on a Sunday. We were informed that Fleet Week was happening, as well as a 49ers game. So, we better prepare for heavy traffic. Our flight was leaving at 3:20 pm. We left El Dorado Hills (which is north of Sacramento) at 10 am. It took us 3 long hours in the car to get to San Francisco. We only had to stop once so Chris and I could switch seats so that I could console a grouchy baby. We had several GPS systems working with us, as well as suggestions from others on which route was the best to take in our journey. We cheated (by accident) by using carpool bus lanes and the Fast Track card to bypass the toll booth and about a half mile length of cars (Auntie Shelley hasn't received a ticket, so we think we're in the clear). If we hadn't taken our cheating route (by mistake of course), we would have been late for sure.
Checking in at the airport with all of our luggage and our newly purchased car seat and jogging stroller was no problem. Thanks to Chase, he gets an allowance of luggage at no charge (now that's surprising these days!). Chase was so exhausted from his lack of sleep, that he passed out for the first three hours of our flight on my lap. When he woke up, he was in a great mood, so we just had to entertain him for the last couple of hours until we landed in Honolulu. Chase was an excellent traveler today. Yet, I don't advise sleepless nights as a good plan to prepare for such travel.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Mom & Gary's Wedding - El Dorado Hills
Saturday, 11 October 2008
It was a nice wedding ceremony today, atop a hill overlooking the Miraflores Winery. After we helped set up yesterday afternoon and discovered how cold it was going to be, we made a last minute run to Target to get Chase a sweater, hat, and mittens. He still had a rash on his right eyelid, ended up with a scratched up nose from falling on the rocks by the end of the day, and was nursing a cold he just caught. But, he did manage to have some fun rolling around in the grass, when he wasn't bundled up under a fleece blanket in his new BOB jogging stroller.
Gary's City Councilman friend got a 24 hour license to perform the ceremony in his white suit, which had been sitting in his closet for 20 years and had never been worn until today. Mom wore a suede skirt and boots. Gary was very emotional and spoke candidly about those close to him who had made today such a special event. He tearfully mentioned how Mom had brought Gary's daughter Andrea back into his life after the bad trucking accident he had a few years back when he had had a heart attack on the road. The rings were held in a gold jewelry box that Gary's stepmom had given Mom before she passed away. Gary spoke about a ring he had from his father that he hoped to pass on to baby Chase (if his daughter Andrea and Tom don't have kids). There were lots of tears and lots of laughter among the 85 guests.
Mom had a "Fall" theme, with lots of pumpkins, fruit, and food from the region. Everyone took some home before the end of the day. The only drawback was that because it was all outdoors, the only single restroom was down in the winery, so unless you wanted to hike back up the hill, we drove and waited in the long line to go to the bathroom. Chase enjoyed eating strawberries, cheese, and crackers. The luncheon featured delicious Italian food consisting of grilled vegetables, salad, a couple different types of pasta, and beef. The seven different types of cupcakes were decadent. I enjoyed the red velvet one. Each table had a blind wine tasting, with a Syrah, Zinfandel, or Merlot. There was a cork game (I think there were over 780 corks), which my brother Jason won. Many friends toasted the happy couple after the nuptials. They all said how warm Corky and Gary are and what fun they bring to any atmosphere. When the sun was shining and the breeze wasn't blowing (notice I'm wearing my long leather coat in most of the pictures), it was beautiful. Frank Sinatra music played in the background. Gary danced with his daughter Andrea, and then Mom, before the guests left. The pictures say it all...
It was a nice wedding ceremony today, atop a hill overlooking the Miraflores Winery. After we helped set up yesterday afternoon and discovered how cold it was going to be, we made a last minute run to Target to get Chase a sweater, hat, and mittens. He still had a rash on his right eyelid, ended up with a scratched up nose from falling on the rocks by the end of the day, and was nursing a cold he just caught. But, he did manage to have some fun rolling around in the grass, when he wasn't bundled up under a fleece blanket in his new BOB jogging stroller.
Gary's City Councilman friend got a 24 hour license to perform the ceremony in his white suit, which had been sitting in his closet for 20 years and had never been worn until today. Mom wore a suede skirt and boots. Gary was very emotional and spoke candidly about those close to him who had made today such a special event. He tearfully mentioned how Mom had brought Gary's daughter Andrea back into his life after the bad trucking accident he had a few years back when he had had a heart attack on the road. The rings were held in a gold jewelry box that Gary's stepmom had given Mom before she passed away. Gary spoke about a ring he had from his father that he hoped to pass on to baby Chase (if his daughter Andrea and Tom don't have kids). There were lots of tears and lots of laughter among the 85 guests.
Mom had a "Fall" theme, with lots of pumpkins, fruit, and food from the region. Everyone took some home before the end of the day. The only drawback was that because it was all outdoors, the only single restroom was down in the winery, so unless you wanted to hike back up the hill, we drove and waited in the long line to go to the bathroom. Chase enjoyed eating strawberries, cheese, and crackers. The luncheon featured delicious Italian food consisting of grilled vegetables, salad, a couple different types of pasta, and beef. The seven different types of cupcakes were decadent. I enjoyed the red velvet one. Each table had a blind wine tasting, with a Syrah, Zinfandel, or Merlot. There was a cork game (I think there were over 780 corks), which my brother Jason won. Many friends toasted the happy couple after the nuptials. They all said how warm Corky and Gary are and what fun they bring to any atmosphere. When the sun was shining and the breeze wasn't blowing (notice I'm wearing my long leather coat in most of the pictures), it was beautiful. Frank Sinatra music played in the background. Gary danced with his daughter Andrea, and then Mom, before the guests left. The pictures say it all...
Friday, October 10, 2008
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
On The Road Again
Wednesday, 8 October 2008
Chase was bright and chipper at 7 am. We ran around outside and inside, ate breakfast (he ate two bowls of jook again plus cereal and eggs!), and waited for Daddy to wake up. Now, it's 11:30 am, and we're all packed up and heading on the road again this afternoon to my mom's in Sacramento. We're going to take the scenic route and go through Berkeley to the REI on our way up north. Hopefully Chase will not be too fussy in the car. We've already missed our window of opportunity for his morning nap.
Just waiting for Chris and Chase to get back from taking Popo to the bank. Then we're off! My brother Jay and Shelly will get in tomorrow morning. They will be bringing Popo up for the wedding on Saturday in El Dorado Hills.
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Children's Discovery Museum
Tuesday, 7 October 2008
Today, we spent a beautiful sunny day indoors at the Children's Discovery Museum in San Jose. Chase loved the water play, making balls float and bounce on water. He loved climbing all over the fire truck and steering the wheel. He paddled in a round Vietnamese boat. He played with dirt, sat on a bench in the garden, and pointed at airplanes flying into the airport overhead. He sat relatively still for storytime, and loved bouncing on the blocks. We explored every nook and cranny of that place for over three hours.
The ride home (though Chase was fast asleep) was exciting because there was a 50 car police chase on the freeway. We picked Popo up and headed to Costco so she could buy some books for Chase's early xmas present. We picked up a pizza and took it home to eat while watching the debate. Chase scarfed down Popo's jook (Chinese dish of chicken, rice, and carrots) and ended his night doing circles (so many that he'd get dizzy and fall down laughing) and running back and forth in the living room.
Today, we spent a beautiful sunny day indoors at the Children's Discovery Museum in San Jose. Chase loved the water play, making balls float and bounce on water. He loved climbing all over the fire truck and steering the wheel. He paddled in a round Vietnamese boat. He played with dirt, sat on a bench in the garden, and pointed at airplanes flying into the airport overhead. He sat relatively still for storytime, and loved bouncing on the blocks. We explored every nook and cranny of that place for over three hours.
The ride home (though Chase was fast asleep) was exciting because there was a 50 car police chase on the freeway. We picked Popo up and headed to Costco so she could buy some books for Chase's early xmas present. We picked up a pizza and took it home to eat while watching the debate. Chase scarfed down Popo's jook (Chinese dish of chicken, rice, and carrots) and ended his night doing circles (so many that he'd get dizzy and fall down laughing) and running back and forth in the living room.
Monday, October 06, 2008
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Monday, 6 October 2008
Because Chase loved the aquarium so much yesterday, we decided to take him to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which I always loved as a kid. Turns out, I loved it as an adult as well. It was so worth the $25 admission. And, I just kept thinking what a terrible aquarium we have in Honolulu. It was worth the 1 1/2 hour drive, even though it wasn't the most scenic drive, but we did get to stop at a Target (Of course, Chris drove while Chase and I slept in the car).
We took over 4 hours to go through the entire aquarium. We got to see the penguin feeding, fish feeding in the two-story tall aquarium, and we met a nice couple from Scotland who had an 18 month old who loved playing on a bench just as much as Chase did. What we loved about this aquarium that differed from yesterday was that it was so kid/toddler friendly. In every large exhibit area, there was an area for toddlers and kids to play in with developmentally appropriate toys and things to explore at their level and in their size. Chase got to touch the dead man's fingers seaweed, the cow tongue seaweed, and the kelp. He loved spinning levers round and round. He pointed at all the birds and fish and laughed at the sea otters playing and gliding in the water. He just ran around and wiggled out of our arms if we were carrying him. He wanted to look at everything! Plus, he got to jump on a trampoline/water bed, stand under a wave (and not get wet!), slide down slides, crawl in tunnels to see moray eel and clownfish, sit in a turquoise clam shell, make stamp books and bookmarks, stand in a penguin egg, and get another magnet and keepsake ornament. We took lots of pictures and videos. This is definitely my favorite aquarium I've ever been to. It was such a fun day. And it was nice to see the Pacific Ocean again (we're so spoiled, but it is weird driving around and not seeing the ocean for such a long time).
On our way back, we stopped by the Gilroy outlets for about half an hour, then headed back home so we could get Chase fed, bathed, and to bed (because by that time, he had already woken up from his second nap and was tired of being in a car). He's been going to bed close to 9 pm each night. I guess he's still on Hawai'i time. He should sleep through the night tonight. He had a VERY busy day.
Because Chase loved the aquarium so much yesterday, we decided to take him to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which I always loved as a kid. Turns out, I loved it as an adult as well. It was so worth the $25 admission. And, I just kept thinking what a terrible aquarium we have in Honolulu. It was worth the 1 1/2 hour drive, even though it wasn't the most scenic drive, but we did get to stop at a Target (Of course, Chris drove while Chase and I slept in the car).
We took over 4 hours to go through the entire aquarium. We got to see the penguin feeding, fish feeding in the two-story tall aquarium, and we met a nice couple from Scotland who had an 18 month old who loved playing on a bench just as much as Chase did. What we loved about this aquarium that differed from yesterday was that it was so kid/toddler friendly. In every large exhibit area, there was an area for toddlers and kids to play in with developmentally appropriate toys and things to explore at their level and in their size. Chase got to touch the dead man's fingers seaweed, the cow tongue seaweed, and the kelp. He loved spinning levers round and round. He pointed at all the birds and fish and laughed at the sea otters playing and gliding in the water. He just ran around and wiggled out of our arms if we were carrying him. He wanted to look at everything! Plus, he got to jump on a trampoline/water bed, stand under a wave (and not get wet!), slide down slides, crawl in tunnels to see moray eel and clownfish, sit in a turquoise clam shell, make stamp books and bookmarks, stand in a penguin egg, and get another magnet and keepsake ornament. We took lots of pictures and videos. This is definitely my favorite aquarium I've ever been to. It was such a fun day. And it was nice to see the Pacific Ocean again (we're so spoiled, but it is weird driving around and not seeing the ocean for such a long time).
On our way back, we stopped by the Gilroy outlets for about half an hour, then headed back home so we could get Chase fed, bathed, and to bed (because by that time, he had already woken up from his second nap and was tired of being in a car). He's been going to bed close to 9 pm each night. I guess he's still on Hawai'i time. He should sleep through the night tonight. He had a VERY busy day.
Sunday, October 05, 2008
California Academy of Sciences
Sunday, 5 October 2008
Chase woke up at a decent hour after a good night's sleep. We ate and played until Chris finally woke up at 9:30 am.
Today's plan was to drive to San Francisco to check out the new California Academy of Sciences museum that just opened last week at the Golden Gate Park.
Although we got to the city in an hour, it took us more than an hour to find parking. There was just so much going on at the park today. The garages were full, the streets were full, and the residential area was way too crowded. We just about gave up after an hour or so of driving around. (Thank goodness, we timed it well so Chase took his morning nap during the drive.) Finally, we ended up parking at a pay lot and walking into the park.
Of course by the time we got our tickets and made it inside, I was starving and in need of food. By the time we made it through that long line and ate, it was already 2 pm. So, we knew we had 3 hours to make our $25 admission worth our while. There were lines everywhere! It was like Disneyland. Lines for elevators, lines for exhibits, lines for the bathroom. That's what we get for going on a Sunday, close to opening week.
It was really cool though. The aquarium was very neat. Chase loved it. We didn't get to see any planetarium shows, and we missed the rainforest because the line was too long. But, the Living Roof was awesome. They tested 30 different native species for two years to see which would sustain without fertilization or irrigation. Now, those plants and flowers are growing on the roof, keeping the roof of this amazing structure cool and GREEN. We bought a souvenir magnet and took lots of pictures. There were over 6,000 people in attendance today, which was close to the grand opening day's count. Crazy. It's too bad we didn't have more time to see everything, but it was worth it.
We got back to Mountain View in time to pick up mom and Popo and head to the Chinese restaurant on Castro for dinner. Popo treated us to a banquet dinner with the family, which included a few of my aunts and uncles and a few of my cousins. My cousins took turns taking Chase to see the fish. They were amazed at how much rice Chase ate. My mom taught him how to play the drums with chopsticks on the table and his tea cup (great...). We all went back to Popo's and had dessert while watching Aunty Shelley and Uncle Keith's video of their recent trip to Europe. My great aunt Esther and great uncle Roger came over to visit Chase too, though he had to go to bed. Of course being the first great grandchild in the family, he's been getting more toys and treats from everyone.
Chase woke up at a decent hour after a good night's sleep. We ate and played until Chris finally woke up at 9:30 am.
Today's plan was to drive to San Francisco to check out the new California Academy of Sciences museum that just opened last week at the Golden Gate Park.
Although we got to the city in an hour, it took us more than an hour to find parking. There was just so much going on at the park today. The garages were full, the streets were full, and the residential area was way too crowded. We just about gave up after an hour or so of driving around. (Thank goodness, we timed it well so Chase took his morning nap during the drive.) Finally, we ended up parking at a pay lot and walking into the park.
Of course by the time we got our tickets and made it inside, I was starving and in need of food. By the time we made it through that long line and ate, it was already 2 pm. So, we knew we had 3 hours to make our $25 admission worth our while. There were lines everywhere! It was like Disneyland. Lines for elevators, lines for exhibits, lines for the bathroom. That's what we get for going on a Sunday, close to opening week.
It was really cool though. The aquarium was very neat. Chase loved it. We didn't get to see any planetarium shows, and we missed the rainforest because the line was too long. But, the Living Roof was awesome. They tested 30 different native species for two years to see which would sustain without fertilization or irrigation. Now, those plants and flowers are growing on the roof, keeping the roof of this amazing structure cool and GREEN. We bought a souvenir magnet and took lots of pictures. There were over 6,000 people in attendance today, which was close to the grand opening day's count. Crazy. It's too bad we didn't have more time to see everything, but it was worth it.
We got back to Mountain View in time to pick up mom and Popo and head to the Chinese restaurant on Castro for dinner. Popo treated us to a banquet dinner with the family, which included a few of my aunts and uncles and a few of my cousins. My cousins took turns taking Chase to see the fish. They were amazed at how much rice Chase ate. My mom taught him how to play the drums with chopsticks on the table and his tea cup (great...). We all went back to Popo's and had dessert while watching Aunty Shelley and Uncle Keith's video of their recent trip to Europe. My great aunt Esther and great uncle Roger came over to visit Chase too, though he had to go to bed. Of course being the first great grandchild in the family, he's been getting more toys and treats from everyone.
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Chase's First Red-Eye
Saturday, 4 October 2008
After going to the doctor on Thursday to get antibiotics, earplugs, Sudafed, and nasal spray so my head doesn't explode on the airplane, and working till 3 pm on Friday finishing my 1st quarter report cards for my 50 + students (cuz there's no way I'm looking at them during intercession), we finished packing and got safely to the airport last night.
Of course, because we were flying on a red-eye, Chase missed his 7:30 bedtime. I tried to keep him away from the action, but he was still too overstimulated by all the people and the lights of the plane and the lobby area. So, by the time we sat down in our seats and were ready to take off at 9:45 pm, he was overtired. He screamed and cried. I tried to put him on the boob, but he refused and just screamed and arched his back and tightened his legs like he does when he's frustrated. Chris and I looked at each other like "Uh oh". Thank goodness, Chase only screamed until we took off. By the time we were in the air, he was nursing and quickly fell asleep.
It's much harder to travel with him on our laps now that he's bigger and not an infant. He's SO wiggly! He tossed and turned in his sleep, crying a little bit each time until he found a comfortable position. But he managed to sleep all the way through the flight.
Of course, we arrived at the crazy hour of 5:30 San Francisco time (which is 3 hours ahead of Hawai'i time, so it was really 2:30 am for us.). Chase was up by the time we landed because of all the bright lights they turn on in the airplane. He wasn't too fussy though. He actually enjoyed running around the baggage area in his glow-in-the-dark skeleton pj's (Thanks, Thuy! They're so adorable (and make it so easy to find him)!). By the time my mom picked us up at 6:30 am, he was wired and full of energy. You'll be happy to know that my mom taught him a new trick (while standing outside the baggage claim) - how to stick your finger in your nose. Lovely. We're not even here for an hour, and now he knows how to pick boogers out of his nose. Hopefully that trick won't stick.
Got to my Popo's, ate breakfast, and Chase explored the house and the yard. Our sleep schedules were all messed up today, but once we took naps, we were energized enough to go out in the afternoon. By the afternoon, Chase had found a ball to play with in the backyard, had explored all the ant patterns and had seen his first squirrel, and he had already broken a magnet and a couple of things in Popo's living room. Turns out my grandmother's home is not that babyproof.
We went to the Los Altos Fall Festival, about ten minutes away. It was a little street fair where we ate food, saw Halloween games and crafts (that were too old for Chase), and we admired the classic cars. Chase loved seeing everyone with their dogs, and he loved the music - a band called Live Wire, who was singing covers from AC/DC to Michael Jackson. Chase clapped and bopped his head and knees to the music. One guy even commented that he has good rhythm. Must get that from his mother. It's definitely not from his father. Ha!
We found a new elephant and piggie book by Mo Williams to add to Chase's collection. We love those books. They're so simple, yet have so much voice and that bit of adult humor that just makes them hilarious. My mom treated us to dinner at Chili's (though Chris really was hoping we could go to Chevy's). Chase was so exhausted that he slept like a log on my lap the entire dinner. That's what you get for flying a red eye.
After going to the doctor on Thursday to get antibiotics, earplugs, Sudafed, and nasal spray so my head doesn't explode on the airplane, and working till 3 pm on Friday finishing my 1st quarter report cards for my 50 + students (cuz there's no way I'm looking at them during intercession), we finished packing and got safely to the airport last night.
Of course, because we were flying on a red-eye, Chase missed his 7:30 bedtime. I tried to keep him away from the action, but he was still too overstimulated by all the people and the lights of the plane and the lobby area. So, by the time we sat down in our seats and were ready to take off at 9:45 pm, he was overtired. He screamed and cried. I tried to put him on the boob, but he refused and just screamed and arched his back and tightened his legs like he does when he's frustrated. Chris and I looked at each other like "Uh oh". Thank goodness, Chase only screamed until we took off. By the time we were in the air, he was nursing and quickly fell asleep.
It's much harder to travel with him on our laps now that he's bigger and not an infant. He's SO wiggly! He tossed and turned in his sleep, crying a little bit each time until he found a comfortable position. But he managed to sleep all the way through the flight.
Of course, we arrived at the crazy hour of 5:30 San Francisco time (which is 3 hours ahead of Hawai'i time, so it was really 2:30 am for us.). Chase was up by the time we landed because of all the bright lights they turn on in the airplane. He wasn't too fussy though. He actually enjoyed running around the baggage area in his glow-in-the-dark skeleton pj's (Thanks, Thuy! They're so adorable (and make it so easy to find him)!). By the time my mom picked us up at 6:30 am, he was wired and full of energy. You'll be happy to know that my mom taught him a new trick (while standing outside the baggage claim) - how to stick your finger in your nose. Lovely. We're not even here for an hour, and now he knows how to pick boogers out of his nose. Hopefully that trick won't stick.
Got to my Popo's, ate breakfast, and Chase explored the house and the yard. Our sleep schedules were all messed up today, but once we took naps, we were energized enough to go out in the afternoon. By the afternoon, Chase had found a ball to play with in the backyard, had explored all the ant patterns and had seen his first squirrel, and he had already broken a magnet and a couple of things in Popo's living room. Turns out my grandmother's home is not that babyproof.
We went to the Los Altos Fall Festival, about ten minutes away. It was a little street fair where we ate food, saw Halloween games and crafts (that were too old for Chase), and we admired the classic cars. Chase loved seeing everyone with their dogs, and he loved the music - a band called Live Wire, who was singing covers from AC/DC to Michael Jackson. Chase clapped and bopped his head and knees to the music. One guy even commented that he has good rhythm. Must get that from his mother. It's definitely not from his father. Ha!
We found a new elephant and piggie book by Mo Williams to add to Chase's collection. We love those books. They're so simple, yet have so much voice and that bit of adult humor that just makes them hilarious. My mom treated us to dinner at Chili's (though Chris really was hoping we could go to Chevy's). Chase was so exhausted that he slept like a log on my lap the entire dinner. That's what you get for flying a red eye.
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