Ohana Arakaki

Mommy's Day

2011-05-08T23:33:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a long while since I've blogged! I had some relatives asking about it so I decided just to start again with what's been going on recently. Way too hard to go back months. There's just not enough time for all this fun stuff! So here it goes.....let's see if I can keep this a little more up to date. No promises! Not much has changed since I stopped blogging last. Just the usual awesome time with my great Ohana! Hope you enjoy! Oh & Happy Spring!

Happy Mommy's Day! My sweet, sweet girls! We had a nice day together! We are wearing matching outfits that we just couldn't resist from our recent family vacation to Hawaii. Love Cinnamon Girl!

Grandma opening up the "MOM" chipboard album I made her for Mother's Day! It turned out super cute!

Daddy and his girl Myleeboo at dinner. Fun Teppanyaki! Great choice to keep my antsy Mylee entertained.

Mommy and Makerdoodle!

Having some fun at dinner with Grandma! I really missed my mom since she was on her trip to Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand. First Mommy's Day without her but I know she's having a blast!

Our only family picture on Mommy's Day with Mak being silly and giving me some bunny ears.

After a full meal and nice night out, my girls continuing to be silly gooses!

My new lens from my awesome hubby! Thanks babe!

Butterfly Park

2010-08-19T00:20:00.000-07:00

Just a beautiful day out at Butterfly Park. Fun little event for us to walk to and check out. So nice and open now that they've cut back all the trees.

Some butterflies to look at. So pretty!

Giant Butterfly Makayla.

Making a pot and planting some seeds. Let's see what she grows.......

Harvest Crusade

2010-08-08T00:46:00.000-07:00

While waiting in line to get in, we went to check out the cool Angel Mickey.

Mak's 1st Harvest with us! So silly with her Daddy!

Me and my girl getting ready for some worship together!

Pizza, pizza, her favorite!

Our sweet little family minus Myleeboo :(
There was a video that wouldn't load of Mak just singing away! She makes my heart so full that she knows our worship songs! How great is our God!

Steven Curtis Chapman! So awesome! Hope my girls play this song at their wedding for their Daddy!

Mercy, Mercy Me! Wow, they were amazing!!!

Amazing how many people go down to the field to dedicate & rededicate their lives! God is amazing! What a great event. If you haven't been, we highly recommend it!

Ry's 35th Birthday!

2010-08-05T23:10:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Ry! It was just an ordinary work day but we started a little celebration with the family for dinner. Some yummy home marinated BBQ Kalbi beef with lots of fixin's! Then for the finale, awesome cupcakes from the Great Dane bakery! A small and sweet celebration! Hope he enjoyed it!

Instead of cake we did cupcakes instead. Makayla's choice for her Daddy! Then to top it off we went with a little football theme to kick off the season soon! Ry's favorite time of year!

Ryan and his M&M girls ready for dessert and some singing!

1, 2, 3 blow! Mylee beat them all too it! So cute how excited she was to blow out some candles. Ever since her 2nd birthday she's been our little pro.

The Arakaki Family. We haven't had one of these photos in ages. Nice to have the whole family together. Funny how Mom and Dad match? Not sure if that was planned....

Just the 4 of us.

Makayla excited about her fun pink & purple seahorse cupcake.

Can you tell how thrilled Myleeboo is about her little goldfish cupcake?!

Diggin' in and it's all over! So fun! Happy Birthday Daddy! Hope you had a great day! We all had fun celebrating it with you!

Polka Dot Bikini's

2010-08-01T23:04:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm way behind on my blog that I just don't think I can ever get it updated. I have all the title posts and most pictures uploaded but I can't seem to find the time to sit and journal. I will hopefully be going back one by one as time permits but you all know how that goes....so I decided to start posting some more recent photos. At least I'm finally in 2010 now! You can go back if you'd like to check from time to time but I know that's doubtful too! I really did this to keep my own scrapbooking log organized and to keep family and friends up to date while getting things off my mind too so I didn't forget them.......

Here are my cutie pies in their teeny matching bikini's from Grandma! They are so stinkin' adorable!

Hanging out by the pool together.

Being silly in the pool with their Daddy! They are both are little fishy's! Mak is just awesome in the pool now with her swimming! We are so proud of her! And of course our no fear Myleeboo!

Sillygoose! That is the cutest face ever! It's been a great summer so far! I know the sun has been limited but that hasn't stopped us from getting out by the pool at least once or twice a week! Good times!

Alyssa's 13th Birthday Bonfire Bash!

2010-07-31T23:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Alyssa! Her parents had a great beach bonfire party! It started early but we were not able to get down there until later in the evening. Lots of great food and company!

Makayla with birthday Princess Alyssa!

A creative birthday sign out of sand on the boogie board.

All the girls! Her friends are such sweet girls!

Fun photos around the lifeguard tower.

More tower poses.

Mylee finally arrives after her late afternoon nap with her Daddy. Now it's her turn with the birthday girl....but don't bother me, I'm lovin' my BBQ corn!

Chillin by the bonfire with my Daddy! Thanks for the invite, we had such a blast celebrating your birthday Alyssa!

Jon & Marcy's Wedding Reception

2010-07-31T21:09:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Jon & Marcy! Some old friends from Ry's softball days way back when and our dentist too! Finally they make the big commitment and so excited that we could be a part of it. They had a little ceremony the night before in Long Beach with just family and then they decided to do a park gathering with friends and family! A totally neat idea and so them! We like the way they roll for sure! It was a fun, casual and relaxing afternoon of just play! Then to top it off they had an In n' Out truck come to feed us all! Man was that great!

Mylee is so happy with her cheeseburger! What' new....it's food and she loves it! And these are her new faces when we take pictures. Just adorable!

Mak & Daddy enjoying their burgers too!

Mylee took mine over with the lettuce and tomatoes. What a girl.

Mak making me do a silly face. She has her little tongue just peeking out a little bit! Silly goose!

Time to head home now but we have to stop to check out the ducks! Too bad we didn't get to take a picture of Jon or Marcy, they were busy catching up with all their guests.

Some more Princess poses by the duck pond. Too bad Mylee missed all this since she was sacked out!

See....sacked out! What a great day so far! Now to head home and nap before a beach birthday bon fire. Busy weekend for sure.

OC Fair

2010-07-28T00:08:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again to hit the OC Fair! We always have a great time there! This year Ryan arranged for us to meet up with one of his old friends from high school, Natalie. She also has two girls that are about the same age as ours so they should have a blast! I feel like I've known Nat for ever and have never met the girl just from holiday cards and FB. So nice to finally meet her and her girls! We had such a great evening with them!

Mak is excited to get there! She wanted to go ride on the big elephant first but we had to meet up with our friends first. By then she forgot about the elephant and wanted to ride the big slide first! One of her favorites from last year.

Now we're all a little hungry for some fair food! She wanted a corn dog and got ketchup all over her silly face! Great to be able to find a seat on the haystacks too. Just what the fair is all about!

Mylee lovin' her corn on the cob! She was a little hesitant with brown parts of the corn from teh BBQ but got over it pretty quickly because it was soooo yummy!

M&M and B&B girls! We finally met up again with Natalie, her girls and sister after bumping into some other old softball friends.

Silly girls being a Koala and Kangaroo! These potatoes are so good! Nice and hot with cheesy and ranch sauce!

Ry and Nat's reunion!

The girls on the Genie ride. Too bad Mylee was tired and in her stroller to join the fun. Too bad I don't trust that she'd sit still on the ride and not want to jump off!

We ended the night with a goldfish. This has been a little tradition that Makayla has developed from the fair. This girl doesn't forget a thing! Now for some funnel cake and home! It's been a fun and long evening! We stayed until pretty late! Thanks for the great time Nat, B&B and Celline! We must get together again soon!

Rainforest Cafe

2010-07-27T00:56:00.000-07:00

We had a nice evening out to Rainforest Cafe since Makayla has earned so many gift cards for the summer reading program at the library! She just loves her books and reading and that makes us so happy!

I guess the balloon guy came by our table.

Mylee waiting so nicely for her food to arrive. She had a cute little balloon too but wasn't too interested.

American Girl

2010-07-05T22:49:00.001-07:00

We went to check out the grove today after a birthday in the area. Look at what store we stumbled across? So cute these American girl dolls!

Meet Malia! Her new itty bitty!

FCC VBS

2010-07-01T13:26:00.000-07:00

Arriving at FCC's VBS. This is Mak's 2nd year attending. She loves it! This is one of the teachers for this week.

Her buddy Mia joins her again too! So cool that they get to be in the same room.

Baby sis, Myleeboo dropping sissy off. Have fun! I'll see you later Mak. Maybe I can try it next year when I'm a little bit older.

Jared's 5th Birthday Carnival

2010-06-27T15:19:00.000-07:00

We were greeting with they homemade goodie bags! Jared's Mommy, Michelle is so talented!

M&M's with the birthday boy Jared!

So cool! They had a shave ice truck come for us.

Mak enjoying a cold one!

The Mitsui Family in front of the shave ice bus! Birthday boy is happy. This was his treat instead of cake! So awesome!

The line is long but so worth it!

Mak with the Chow twins! They are so cute and getting so big!

Some fun carnival games.

More fun!

We're thirsty!

Cooling off with some ducks and water! Nice on this hot summer day in LA.

Ry and his girls! Too cute!

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T22:30:00.000-07:00

A little red, white and blue on this gorgeous Memorial Day!
Girls gonna have fun in the their water and sand station in the back yard.

Tara's Birthday Fiesta!

2010-05-18T23:20:00.000-07:00

Our 3 little trouble makers at their own table celebrating Auntie Tara's birthday.

Logie and Mylee sitting so nicely waiting for dinner. Let's see how long this will last!

Beautiful birthday senorita!

Our silly girls.

Love that Logie! Happy Birthday Tara! Thanks for letting us share your day with you! Hugs!

USSD Karate Tournament

2009-12-06T22:31:00.000-08:00

Makayla attends her first karate tournament! We thought it was a little early for her but her Sensei really recommended it just for the experience. We're glad we did it but boy was it crowded. A little overwhelming but she did great! She went in to do her 8 point block for her forms and sparring. She knows both so we'll see what happens! Let's just hope she has a great time!

She met her buddies Alyssa and Josie there. My little shorty girl compared to the others.

We finally made it the room where the sparring competition starts. It's packed! Makayla watching so intensely.

All geared up! Love the pink gloves and where's her pretty little face under all that??

Go get her Mak! She did great and I think it was fixed since she didn't win! Just a Mom's opinion! haha! All in good fun!

We are so proud of her! They all got a certificate and medal too! She was stoked! We didn't think she'd spar and she did! Too bad she didn't do her forms. I think it was nap time and a lot of fear. Maybe next time. At least she did one event and had a great time!

Marlee's 3rd Birthday

2009-12-05T22:32:00.001-08:00

It's Marlee's Strawberry Shortcake birthday party today! She turns 3! Makayla is so excited to go since she's having the same themed party as Makayla. I guess this age is just into Strawberry Shortcake again. I remember her when I was a little girl. Marlee is a friend that Makayla met just by playing at our local park. Thanks to Grandma for always getting the girls outdoors to play and to meet new friends. The party was at their house and boy was it fun!

The cake was so cute! Happy Birthday Marlee!

It's cookie decorating time! What a great idea for the kids.

Makayla is eating her finished goods. Happy girl!

This is her good friend Jordan that also knows Marlee the same way we do. Had to post this silly picture of her.

They had a great bounce house with a giant slide! As you'll see in this video Makayla had loads of fun! Thanks for inviting us Marlee and big hugs to Grandma Arakaki for taking me since Mommy and Daddy had other plans today.

Library Tree Trimming & Magic Show

2009-12-05T22:32:00.000-08:00

This is an annual event at the library that Makayla has been going to each year. She just loves all the library activities and events. Thanks to Grandma Jennie for introducing her to all of it and keeping that calendar for us. Makayla invited one of her best buds to join her, Jordan and her Grandma. The kids get to make all kinds of craft ornaments for the library Christmas tree. They also get to see Santa if they want and a fun magic show too! The girls had a great time with each other and their Grandma's!

Mom, thanks for taking her for us today.

It's Hollywood!

2009-12-02T23:52:00.000-08:00

Mylee loves wearing her shades! My cool girl!

Our Holiday Photos at the Beach

2009-12-01T23:44:00.000-08:00

We had our very first holiday family photos down by the beach today by one of my old high school friends. So nice to have an opportunity to get back in touch with him. He was great with my girls and we had so much fun doing this shoot! Good times for sure and very memorable too!

Just having some fun with our girls! They loved it! Boy was it windy though!

Our little Myleeboo! We're using these as her 18-month shots. She's getting so big so quick! If time could just slow down just a little please so we can cherish this age a little longer!

M&M's just chillin' in the sand. Mylee is not to sure about this but we got shots quickly!

Love the snuggles from Big Sis! And love this black and white shot too.

Makayla showing us her seashell.

Just the four of us! Love my wonderful family so much! Thanks for doing such a great job for us Brian! You rock and so great to catch up with you too!

Princess & The Frog

2009-11-30T14:02:00.000-08:00

Today is a special day for our little Princesses! A few of us Mommy's decided to take our little girls to see a special showing of The Princess and the Frog out in LA at the Disney Studios lot. Thanks to my friend David for telling me about this special event. This is such a big deal for us...how often does Disney introduce a new Princess? Not very often at all so this is super special!

We are on the lot and waiting for her bestest girlfriends to join the party but she has some time for her Mommy right now.

Us and a special Mickey appearance! One of her best buds, Rachee joined us here right before the movie was going to start.

The movie was sooooo good and the girls did great together! Oh, I forgot to mention this is Makayla's first experience in a big movie theatre. What a great treat for her first to be at the Disney Studios! One spoiled girl, but she's such a good girl!

Mia, Makayla and Rachee with Princess Snow White. This was such a wonderful surprise for the girls to actually meet all the Princesses after the movie! They were so thrilled!

Princess Pocahontas. She's so pretty!

Love the Mulan pose girls!

The Mommy's get to be in the picture with our star tonight the new Princess Tiana! She was adorable with her New Orleans Southern accent! Loved her!

Princess Jamine, one of Makayla's favorites!

And of course, Cinderella.

Sitting on the shell with Ariel, really Makayla's favorite Princess right now!

And finally Belle, the girls made their rounds and got to every Princess that was there!

Time to head off the Disney lot for some dinner! It's been a long day but so much fun and we're hungry!

For the original Bob's Big Boy! Yummy! Totally hit the spot! What a fun treat too! Fun times Mommy's and kiddos! Luv you guys! Our girls are such BFF's like us already!

Oh Christmas Tree Trimmed

2009-11-29T00:27:00.000-08:00

Tree trimming here we come! We so love decorating our tree together. Such a wonderful family bonding moment!

Our girls in their matching reindeer Pj's. So cute!

Here goes Makayla. Looks like we're going to have lots of ornaments down low. This is her 2nd year of really understanding how to help decorate our tree. Mylee still to small but tries to help. Amazing that I think we only broke 1 or 2 ornaments. The girls did great!

M&M's with their Daddy! Ry got Makayla up higher to get some ornaments higher up and distributed kind of evenly. She loves being on his shoulders and on top of the world!

Me and my cutie pies! We are so ready for Christmas now!

M&M's and their Daddy again in front of the finished product! Beautifully decorated! Good job Ohana Arakaki!

Our Christmas Lights

2009-11-28T21:40:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas lights! Red and white just like a candy cane! Cute snowmen along the walkway and snowflakes falling from our tree! We just love that Christmas cheer is in the air! Our favorite time of year!

Oh Christmas Tree

2009-11-28T19:56:00.001-08:00

Our little family traditions continue.....It's time to pick out our annual Christmas tree at the lot around the corner from our house with Grandma and Grandpa. Makayla looks forward to doing this with her Grandparents. We take a nice walk over there and Grandpa drives it back to our house. What great tree service Gramps!

This is the awesome tree that the girls picked out this year! They wanted a flocked tree for the first time. These girls have so good and expensive taste!

Makayla and Grandpa getting ready to pay for the damages. He's a sucker for his girls! They got exactly what they wanted even though it hard on the pocket book! They are too lucky!

Our tree at the lot! So perfect!

Not sure where she got the peace sign pose but it's so cute! We were laughing at her! The tree is just perfect in our house this year! It's about a 5.5 ft. tree but looks much taller once it's in our stand. Great Christmas tree day! Thank you so much Grandma & Grandpa!

Thanksgiving Feast

2009-11-26T19:56:00.000-08:00

It's time Thanksgiving time! We love this time of year. Wonderful family gatherings, food and thankfulness! We are so blessed with all that we have!

A glimpse of us getting the turkeys ready the night before. Special seasoning......hopefully it turns out yummy!

Got a cute picture of the girls with my parents. Aww, the family! These photo opportunities are hard to get with my little wiggle worms!

We're missing my brother this year! He's usually the one that takes care of the fried turkey so this year it's all Ryan! Looking good so far! Watch out so you don't singe those arm hairs.

Our little family with our girls! Love these sweetie pies!

Mmmm, the turkey is golden brown and just perfect! Good job babe! Looks like you put on some long sleeves to hold on to those arm hairs! haha!

We are so proud of our turkey! So crispy and tasty seasoning and perfectly injected! Next year though, need to tie the legs down so it looks nicer. We learn how to do a little better each year.

Our wonderful family! Missing Binh & Janai this year since they are up north with her family this time. They'll be back next year for sure! And this year our addition, Maya & Luu! Our new found cousin from Sweden. Welcome! Happy Gobble, Gobble Day everyone! So thankful for our wonderful family!

Fluffy

2009-11-23T00:56:00.000-08:00

Meet Fluffy everyone! This is my daughters little friend from school that gets passed around to all the kids to take home to care for him. It is such a neat little thing for the kids because they really do take such great care of Fluffy! He's a lucky bear to get so much love from all these wonderful kids! Makayla was so excited that it was her turn to take Fluffy home today.

Just a little snack with Fluffy, my sippy and some popcorn and a movie. Nice night for some snuggles with my buddy!

My little sister Mylee made friends with Fluffy too! We shared some Popsicles and played together!

Showing Fluffy around in my room so he gets comfortable spending the night with me.

It's night night time! Snuggles!

Fluffy even got to venture to the library for a show at Tabby Theatre too with my friend Jordan. We all had so much fun together since Jordan knows Fluffy too.

The next day I took Fluffy to my Karate lesson with Sensei Mike! Fluffy learned a lot of new karate moves for his self defense now!

I'm keeping a close eye on Fluffy and he's always right by my side.

I even held him tight in the car seat too while we too him places with us. Fluffy, I hope you had fun with my family! We sure had fun with you!

Slumber Party!

2009-11-22T00:43:00.000-08:00

The girls were so excited to have their very first slumber party at our house. Ryan was out of town and my cousin's wanted a date night so I took all the girls! We had so much fun! Especially with our 2nd king size bed that's currently butted up to our queen size bed. Instant trampoline back and forth for the kids!

Here they are getting ready to call it a night! Yeah right?

Had to get this photo of them in the middle of the night when I woke up to check on them. Alexis gave Mak a instant face mask. Didn't even bother her at all since she slept right on through. Lexi missed her mom and dad in the middle of the night but then was fine. Alyssa took good care of her lil sis!

Rise and shine! It's breakfast time! Waffles? Sausage or Bacon? Eggs? Whatever they want! Can't wait for our next one!

Bonnie's Baby Shower

2009-11-21T20:10:00.000-08:00

Bon Bon's baby shower was today down in San Diego for her baby #2 Kelly! We had a small gathering of her closest friends for lunch at a fun and casual restaurant called the Gathering!

Here's the mommy with her big guy Aidan and the diaper cake that we made her since she'll need lots of those diapers!

My girl and her buddy Rachee! Such good friends.

Mak with her two Auntie's, Janai & Mel.

Auntie Bonnie wanted all the kiddos to be part of this party and boy was it fun and hectic! Good thing the restaurant had such a nice patient staff!

The OC and SD BFF's! Thanks ladies for all your help! We did good! Mama Bon's was happy!
'

The two big long tables of most of the guests.

The onesie decorating game. This was so cute! Thanks Mel for coordinating such a fun game for us all. Baby Kelly is going to have a lot to wear!

It's cake time! Can't wait for the arrival of Baby Kelly! Congrats Bons & Doug and Big Bro Aidan! We love you!

Thanksgiving Feast at School

2009-11-18T00:51:00.000-08:00

It's feasting time at school and to remember the things you're thankful for. Her school is so awesome that they really do teach the kids all these wonderful things when the holidays come around and even non holiday events. They really do focus on what's important to the heart and soul!

Had to share her gobble, gobble hair bow I made her. I was so proud to knock that design off for my daughter. She's got so many compliments and curiosity with all the kids too.

Such a cute pose I had to post it.

Here we are her class feast. The parents and helpers always set up such a great deal for the parents and kids. When I arrived the kids all sang us such wonderful songs! Amazing!

Makayla and her buddy Ty.

Their cool cupcake Cornucopia dessert! Pr

I thought this picture was so cute again with her friend Ty and his super messy chocolate mouth and Makayla in her Indian feather hat. Happy Gobble, Gobble! So thankful for so many things!

No More Starbursts

2009-11-16T22:51:00.000-08:00

Well, we're back to the dentist with an emergency today. I guess Makayla's not suppose to eat Starbursts or anything super sticky. I wish I would have known but I guess it's probably common sense with someone who has crowns I guess? I didn't know they'd come out that easily and they seriously shouldn't. Good thing her dentist was able to squeeze her in right away. She came to me with a big gooey gob and totally knew what happened. She gave me the gob with her crown in it. She was a little freaked out and so was I since I didn't know what had happened.

So here we are at the dentist again and of course I'm nervous as heck and fairly upset again that she has to go through this. It was just a little nitrous oxide but it's so hard to see your little 3 year old looking like this. They had it so she had a fun purple grape flavored nose that she picked out. Good thing this dental office is full of fun tricks for the kids. I can't believe how amazing they are with everything we've been through there. She has a good experience and wants to continue to come back. It was so awkward for her but she was such a big girl about it. No major tears. Just emotional but she knew we had to fix her crown. I'm so proud of her and she did awesome! It shouldn't happen again. I guess with her having the porcelain crowns it's a little tougher to adhere the cement. Live and learn I guess. Just glad it's over and taken care of.

Katie's 4th Birthday

2009-11-15T22:50:00.000-08:00

It's Dora, Dora The Explorer party time! We're celebrating Katie's 4th birthday today. What a beautiful and perfect day out for a themed party. Her mommy did such a great job with the party and the adventure that all the girls had....wait and see how amazing and fun it was.

The girls started off with little back pack, back packs and their maps. So cute!

The first step was to go across the Dora hopscotch bridge. It was so funny, Makayla hopped on one foot all the way across.

Next they had to figure out the riddle from her daddy the grouch to open the door to the chocolate tree. It was hung with little Hershey kisses that were soft and mushy because it was a pretty warm day out for November. The girls even had a special visit from Swiper himself too so they had to say "Swiper no swipy" to their chocolates to shoo him away. (her brother was a trooper for being Swiper). Brotherly love!

The girls accomplished the adventure and it's now pinata time but let's try to get a group photo first.

Cute pinata. I've never seen a pull string pinata before but I like it. A little less dangerous than swinging a stick for these little one's. Such clever ideas out there. I'll definitely have to keep this one in mind.

After all that hard work, now it's time for homemade cupcakes! Tracy her mommy bakes some excellent cupcakes! These were orange filled flavored. So different but so good!

Makayla and Katie the birthday girl in the middle. What a great party! Happy Birthday Katie and thanks for the invite!

Janai's Birthday Crop

2009-11-14T22:51:00.000-08:00

It's our November crop with the Scrap Queens and we're celebrating November birthday's but it looks like Janai gets to celebrate it solo! Lucky girl!

Stacy made these awesome red velvet cupcakes! They were sooooo good! She said they were Paula Dean's recipe with some of her own additions here and there. Stace is the da bomb cook and baker! We are so lucky to have her feeding us all the time! We love you and your food!

The birthday girl with her goods! Happy Birthday Janai! Another year younger!

Writing

2009-11-13T23:27:00.000-08:00

We are so proud of Makayla and her letters lately. She is just doing awesome! We had a Dora birthday party to attend for her little friend Katie and she made this card and wrote her friend's name on it. Not bad if ask me for a little girl that isn't even 4 yet! Good job sweet pea!

Miss. Independent

2009-11-08T23:19:00.000-08:00

Mylee is finally picking up her foods and eating it on her own. My Miss. Independent! Yummy french fries! My girls are little potato girls like their Auntie Som! It's so cute the way she just shovels it in her mouth. Aw, the little things......

Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party

2009-11-07T12:52:00.000-08:00

It's time for the Sugar Plum Fairy tea party once again. We attended last year and Makayla loved it so when it came around again we were all over it! It's an event that is put on by her ballet school and super cute! It's based on the Nutcracker story.

Right when we entered she had an opportunity to take a photo with the Sugar Plum Fairy and Rat King! She was thrilled!

One happy little ballerina eating her goodies at the tea party. They decorate the room and make it super cute for all the little girls. Just like a picture perfect tea party.

Then they some dancing, story time, raffles and a performance by the Sugar Plum Fairy herself. What a wonderful afternoon for a tea party. Her cousin Alexis and good friends, Jordan, Annabelle & Charlotte joined her and had their own little table together.

Sparring

2009-11-03T17:42:00.000-08:00

Okay, so she started sparring today in her own official gear. Don't you just love her pink gloves? I wasn't too sure how I felt about this and how she would handle it but she did great! She's not too scared of it at all even though there are older little boys that cry when they have to spar. That's my tough girl! It's actually pretty cute. But I might not think so down the road if she gets hurt. They all seem fairly gentle right now. We'll just keep a close eye on it.

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T00:13:00.000-07:00

It's finally Halloween day! There was so much leading up to this day with so many other activities beforehand. Halloween is super exciting this year since it lands on a Saturday. We started off the evening early at our church for their carnival event for all the kids.

Here we all are for all the festivities. There were games, games & food, food!

We had to stop at the cotton candy/snow cone booth since my growth group was manning that booth. They made a yummy cotton candy for Makayla! She loved it and so did baby sis Mylee but boy was it messy! We're gonna get the costumes all sticky before trick or treating even begins. All in the fun!

Oh boy! The big giant slide! There were also bounce houses too. When the kids played the games they all won a little candy treat.

Our Little Mermaid family photo. Too bad Mylee passed out fairly early.

Trick or Treat?

Here we all are at the very scary house that's decked out every year! Scary giant spiderweb!

All done and full of candy! All the troopers that dressed up to get one photo opportunity. What fun! That's it for all the Halloweeny festivities! Whew we're all pooped after this long week!

Halloween Tumbling Class

2009-10-30T01:19:00.000-07:00

It's a Halloween party at Mylee's tumbling class today. The girls both dressed up in their Ariel costumes to jump around and play in. Of course Makayla loved it since she's wearing her favorite Princess right now over and over again.

The two Ariel's at circle time with their Daddy. I snuck in for photos since Makayla and I come from her karate lessons so we're always a little late.

Mylee saw my camera and loves it! She tries to grab it right away but instead I got a cute close up of her instead.

It's jingle, jingle time now.

If you're happy and you know it.

Now that all the tumblin' time is over it's party time! Food! One of Mylee's favorite things to do and boy did she love it all! Yummy cookie though! More fun time during Halloween! So good to let them wear their costumes more than once.

My Gym Halloween Party

2009-10-30T00:12:00.002-07:00

One of Makayla's favorite spots, My Gym had a Trick or Treat event today. For some reason she wanted to wear her mouse costume from her ballet recital in June. Did she get tired of Ariel already and it's not even Halloween yet?

Here she is with Katie one of her favorite teachers there. I guess this is the check in counter. Grandma had to take her today since I had to work. Boo!

Looks like a good crowd. There she is hands up in the air with one of her best buds Jordan during their circle time.

It's bubble time!

The girls and their instructors all dressed up for Halloween! So much fun!

R&B's Halloween Contest

2009-10-30T00:12:00.001-07:00

We even have a little Halloween fun at my work too! We have a fun contest with some pretty good prizes and dessert! Good times to lighten things up at work! haha! Even the big bosses all dress up too! I love the participation!

Carving Pumpkins

2009-10-29T01:10:00.000-07:00

It's carving time with my little pumpkins!

They are both ready in their cute matching Halloween PJ's. PJ's are really one of my addictions for my girls! Love them to match especially during any of the holidays! Well, this little pumpkin really isn't going to be carved, but poked!

Poked just enough to add the little Princess Potato Head from Auntie Som & Uncle Alan. How did they know Makayla was eyeing this at Target.....good thing we didn't buy it.

Makayla just loves her Princess creation! So much variety for the kids these days it's amazing!

Onto the next one! We're really going to carve this one! But it's really Mommy's pumpkin.

Doesn't Ry look thrilled to be carving his? He really did have fun, I think he was just over me and that camera. haha!

Here are the carved masterpieces before they are lit up. Not bad!

Boo! Scary in the dark! Not so much. Pretty cute if you ask me! Can you tell which one is his and hers? We're so predictable!

My favorite part after carving the pumpkins. Homemade baked seeds! I kicked it up a notch and added some garlic powder, salt & Cajun seasoning. And of course spray butter is a must! They were awesome! A keeper recipe for sure!

Halloween Magic Show

2009-10-28T00:15:00.000-07:00

Daddy took his little girl to a Halloween Magic Show at the library tonight. So sweet that they were able to have a little date night. Makayla was excited to go with him since she mostly does almost everything with me. Of course she's in her Ariel costume again! We are really getting our money's worth here! She loves to dress up! Especially in her Princess costumes!

Cute Daddy & Makerdoodle pic!

The Magician and all the kids on stage. I tried uploading the video but it didn't work. He was pulling a rabbit out of his hat! They were thrilled! Same magician she saw last year. And same guy they she saw at Disneyland too. Small world! The library always puts on such great little shows for the kids.

School Halloween Parade & Party

2009-10-28T00:11:00.000-07:00

Makayla is so excited about her Halloween parade at school and party! She is already with her costume this year! She is thrilled to be Ariel. Can you believe she even let me color her hair red? She was so cute and such a pretty little Ariel!

Posing in the front room of our house before she heads out to school. Look at that pose with her hands out like little fins and all. I don't ask her to do any of this. She does it all on her own. She must get it from her movies.

Some her her little friends at school. Looks like we have a rocker, Silvermist fairy, Snow White, Ariel and another pretty, pretty fairy!

A little video clip of their parade. They are all so adorable! Amazing how the school can get all these little one's to do this parade is amazing. It's always so much chaos fun!

Even better that after the parade they were even able to get a class photo! Everyone pretty much cooperated nicely! Not bad for 3 & 4 year olds.

She's back in the class and now it's time for the party! Crafts & snacks! But first we must take the costume off. Good thing I had extra cloths for her. The craft they did was so cute! The room moms are pretty amazing. They got the kids a Halloween frame that they decorated and then they even got the group picture developed and into the frames for the kids to take home. Now that's efficient! All the kids had so much fun!

School Portraits

2009-10-28T00:10:00.000-07:00

Makayla's school portraits this year in the Yellow Room. Her 2nd year of preschool is much better! I love the back drop that they used! Very cool school picture for sure! Last year she wasn't happy and was crying in her pictures so this is 100 times better! She's such a big girl, even picked out her own pretty dress for this today. We're so proud of her each and everyday and enjoy every minute of watching our girls grow up! Oh, it's just way too fast though.

Singing Away

2009-10-26T01:24:00.000-07:00

Just making up some words and singing her silly songs from school. She's been doing this and pretending to read a lot on her own. Just making things up. The creativity is really flowing right now. it's so cute! I hope she continues since we love watching it!

Playdate with Rachee

2009-10-25T22:49:00.000-07:00

Makayla had a little play date with Rachee today. The girls were so excited to spend some time together. I heard about a little Halloween trick or treat event at the OC fairgrounds swamp meet so I took the girls to walk around. It wasn't too exciting but we got to shop around and have ice cream!

Mmmmm, yummy ice cream! It was super hot day so this really cooled them off! They both shared so nicely with each other! Good girls!

They were both super interested in the man carving the giant pumpkins! They watched for quite awhile here. After collecting some candy and buying a few fun items we called it a day and headed home.

Now it's park time! We got out the monster wagon and went for a ride! I took the girls to our little park that we always hang out at. They brought a ball to kick around and a tea set? Interesting combo but whatever they want! They all rode over in the wagon so nicely! It was a fun little ride! I got my workout pulling the 3 of them! Look at Rachee's silly little face!

It's tea time! I forgot a blanket for them but they were fine right on the grass sipping their pretend tea. They all played for about an hour and my cousins came to join the girls in the fun. So there was more tea time, kicking the ball around or chasing it and then some jungle gym time! What a relaxing day in the outdoors!

We got another passenger on the monster wagon for the ride home! Double the workout now! Mylee loved being in the wagon with all the girls! So much they had together. I'm sure they're headed home for some dress up time now! I think I know them all way too well! What a fun day the girls had with each other. We need more of these days!

OC Great Park Harvest Festival

2009-10-24T20:36:00.001-07:00

We heard about the Great Park from a friend that lives in Irvine so we went to check it out for the Halloween festivities. It was kind of in a weird location over by the base in the middle of concrete? Not so much a park setting to me but maybe one day......since that's what they're trying to promote. They did a good job though with lots of activities and vendors. We had fun and enjoyed ourselves for a few hours if that.

This was the entrance to the park. The girls seemed excited since they saw a little train right when we got in. So we rode that first.

Then they had all kinds of craft stations set up for the kids. Here, Makayla got to make a spider with a tootsie pop. Turned out super scary!

It's pumpkin time for my little pumpkin!

My two little pumpkins picking out their pumpkins. Can you believe they gave these away for free to the kids? Pretty nice! It was a super hot day too! Can you tell? We're in shorts and t-shirts and it's October! Only in Sunny Cal! Gotta love it!

After the girls picked out their pumpkins they had an area for them to decorate their pumpkins. Real fun with paint pens, feathers, pipe cleaners and foam stickers. So much fun. We've never decorated pumpkins this way before. Only good old fashioned carving in the past. Very creative!

Makayla excited about her pumpkin. She even decorated one for Mylee too! What a good big sis!

Ngoai's Birthday Dinner

2009-10-23T22:49:00.000-07:00

It's Grandma's (Ngoai's) birthday celebration today! We took her out to dinner at Spaghettini's! Same place we celebrated Grandpa's 70th! Mom loved it so much that she wanted to go back there! I'm so glad we did because it's so yummy! Great ambiance and music too!

Here's Grandma with her two favorite grand babies! Mylee is eyeing that creme brulee. That girl loves her food! Especially sweets!

Grandpa & Grandma with the girls.

The Arakaki Grandparents also came out to help us celebrate with my mom! Again, I have to say how blessed we are to be able to have both sides of the family get along so well and pretty much celebrate almost everything together! Makes life for us kids so much simpler!

Uncle Binh & Auntie Janai came up from San Diego too! What a treat!

Uncle Alan & Auntie Som with one of their favorite nieces! Happy Birthday Mom!

Mylee Walks!

2009-10-22T00:10:00.000-07:00

Our Mylee finally starts walking! Yippee or not? I know we've been anxious since she started so late (18 months) but I know she's going to be moving faster then I can keep up! We're super excited about this milestone for here! More chasing around here I come!

Where the heck are her pants in both of these videos? I guess you grab what you can and sometimes the moments are just not perfect. It's so cute and she is thrilled by this new thing that she's doing called "walking".

Super wobbly but it'll get there before we know it! Our baby is getting big way too fast! You want them to progress forward but why does it make us so sad that they grow up way too quickly! I remember her being in my arms not too long ago. How time flies, even more so with the 2nd for some reason. So proud of you Myleeboo! Big steps!

Silly Girl

2009-10-20T00:33:00.000-07:00

Grandma and her silly girl! I had to post this picture of them since she rarely sits still for a decent picture with anyone anymore and I had to post these silly pictures that she took all on her own! Amazing how she would press the button put the camera on the table real quick and make a silly face and get it all to take and come out. Amazing kid!

Makayla and her Ba Ngoai!

Silly Face #1

Silly Face #2

Silly Face #3. Note again, she took these all by herself! My crazy girl!

Ballet & Sippy Cup

2009-10-19T00:22:00.000-07:00

Makayla is starting another session of ballet lessons through the city again. She just loves it so much! It does fit her perfectly! She has chosen this and karate as her two things to do since that's all I can handle and at times I don't even know if I can. Good thing for Grandma since she takes her to her ballet lessons each week. Thank you so much Grandma! We couldn't do it without you!

Pretty girl in pink!

That evening we decided that Mylee should really be drinking more and more out of a sippy cup. Here she is with it! She's so excited but oh so messy. She really lets it drool right on out. We'll see what happens with this. I notice that we are much lazier with switching to the next milestone with the 2nd baby for sure. What the heck's the rush right? haha!

Big Bear Scrap Retreat

2009-10-16T20:36:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe I was able to go on my very 1st scrapbooking retreat! We've all talked about it and heard about it but our group never thought we could really pull it off and put one together on our own and we did! It filled up pretty fast! We headed up to Apple's Bed & Breakfast in Big Bear! Awesome time of year to be up there. Not too cold yet but pretty cool where it was super refreshing! Fall was definitely in the air! It was so beautiful and relaxing to get away for some R&R with all my best girlfriends to do what we love to do! Scrapbook our friends and family!

We arrived in Big Bear! The drive was pretty smooth! It's been a long time since I've had to drive up this mountain but I just loved all it! Reminds me of our snow days in the past when we went up all the time. We all carpooled and caravan up there with Stace, Tara & Patty. The Bed & Breakfast was super cozy! Loved it from the moment we arrived! The staff was absolutely amazing too!

This is just a glimpse of one side of the crop room. We had two sides that looked like this with a total of 18 crazy women scrappers! It was a crazy paper mess!

As if we didn't have a enough stuff from the picture before we had to take a little field trip to their local scrapbooking store. Got just a few items....we had to support the small local town store and be good tourists right? You know me, always trying to validate my scrap spending. Even better that they gave us a group discount on our entire purchase! Perks to going in groups and if they know you're coming! Thanks to Scapper's Escape, Jessica, the gal that coordinated everything for us so that I could enjoy this R&R trip and not have to be the usual coordinator. She was well worth every penny and it wasn't even that much from everyone. We didn't have to worry about anything and everything was great!

It's time for Happy Hour! The Bed & Breakfast provided this daily for us. All yummy homemade everything! Those cute apples are cheese balls. So good!

Lounging in the family room during happy hour. This was our day 1 with our Halloween PJ outfits. We kind of look like jailbirds with the orange pants but they had little ghosts on them with black "Happy Halloween" shirts. Everyone was a trooper and participated in our little fun.

Day 1 group photo in front of the Apple carriage. Fun group of gals for sure!

A glimpse of one of our meals. Can you believe all this? I can't even tell you how good it all was! So good that I had to come home with their recipe book too! And all the recipes look pretty simple too. Can't wait to make a few of these on my own at home.

A shot of part of our dining room. So cozy to be able to all eat together. Can you believe this table? The biggest I've ever seen for a large group to all eat together. They served us breakfast, lunch, dinner, mid day snacks, happy hour & even midnight desserts! We were so spoiled! And to top it off there was a masseuse there each day for us too! Absolutely paradise without the palm trees & beaches!

Day 2 was basically all the same except for different outfits. We had cute pink shirts that said "What Happens at a Crop, Stays at the Crop!" and black PJ bottoms that had princess crowns and hearts. So perfect, comfy & cozy. Our group shot in front of the Bed & Breakfast of Day 2 which will be our last evening here. So sad how fast it has gone by.......

Here we celebrated the 3 October birthday's. Dawn, Patty & Stacy! Happy Birthday ladies! What a special treat to be able to celebrate it at a retreat!

Disney's Halloween Treat

2009-10-15T21:14:00.000-07:00

Our little 3rd year tradition to Disney's Halloween Treat event at California Adventure Park. Our girls are so thrilled! It's an event that is just in the evening filled with trick or treating and fun dance stations all around the park. Everyone is dressed up for all the fun!

We are parked and ready to go with our two little Ariel Princesses!

Walking along Downtown Disney and stopped for a picture since we're a little early. We didn't want to fight traffic and the crowds so we gave ourselves plenty of time. Here are my two sweet girls together for a pretty good photo. They are both kind of looking and sitting still. You don't even know how hard that is to accomplish! Can you tell Makayla picked out her costume and her little sister to match her? So adorable if you ask me!

Me and my little mini Ariel!

Oh, Makayla is on cloud 9 with her bestest girlfriends! Mia as Tinkerbell and Rachee as Alice from Alice & Wonderland. The 3 Musketeers!

All the kiddos together as best as we could get them. All dressed up! So cute!

All the Momma's! Too many cameras, not sure which one to look at so we're kind of all over the place. Notice our matching shirts. We are such dorks but love it!

All the Daddy's now! Such troopers in their matching shirts too! Except for our one outcast, Mr. Arnold the party pooper!

It's now late and we're winding down. The big kids are riding on California's Screamin' while a few girls are watching the fireworks. Alexis as Cinderella wasn't in the group photo since they arrived a little late so here she is with Mia & Makayla. What a fun filled night with lots of candy and apples collected along with dancing away and a few rides too. Great start for the Halloween season!

Mylee Loves her Fishy's

2009-10-14T23:00:00.000-07:00

I just think it's so cute how often she just goes over to her fish tank to watch her fishy's swim around. It's just adorable and then when we catch her she just laughs and gives us big smiles! We just can't get enough of it!

Group Karate Class

2009-10-13T12:42:00.000-07:00

Makayla finally advanced to the group lessons in her Karate class. She's been doing the private lessons and was not able to go to the groups until she was more comfortable and actually said some words to her Sensei which she just did recently. She was so excited to be in a group setting again. She's not use to doing anything in a private lesson and this disciplined at all. I know it's all great for her in the long run but she just loves to be with others. Just like her Momma!

Before class started the kids all sit together and play. Makayla is sitting with her new friend Alexis. She's a little bit older and has a yellow belt already so she really is a super helper with Makayla. She takes good care of her. Small world is that her parents own a Chinese style noodle shop that we go to all the time for years now. Super sweet family.

Stretching with the others. She really is the smallest out of all the kids for sure.

They don't mess around. Here are some push ups. She in in the middle back row with the black piggy tails if you don't notice her.

All stretched and ready!

You have to watch this video! Amazing that this is really her first group lesson and how she knows how to do all the moves. I guess the privates paid off after all. They don't like us to stay and watch since it's distracting so this was really neat to see how she's progressed in such a short amount of time. Kids are simply amazing at how much they absorb!

Vistage Retreat

2009-10-10T23:31:00.000-07:00

It's our annual retreat with my Vistage Executive Group but this year we decided to stay local and not a weekend or overnight er trip due to the economic strain on everyone and their businesses. We went to Decor Center in Diamond Bar where Simple Gourmet took care of us with a super fun "Iron Chef" event. We started the morning off with a professional speaker on "Change". He was only mediocre compared to some of the other fantastic speakers we've had in the past. We were looking forward to the evening portion of our retreat. This is a fun event since our spouses and significant others join us to see what this group is all about too since it's a pretty big part of most of our lives.

A few appetizers and cocktails before the competition and teams are divided up. I'm pretty sure Ryan and I are being split up so we all get to know others in the group and no spousal disagreements in the kitchen! haha.

Some pictures of our finished dishes. We had a wonderful salad with a yummy dressing, rice dish with bbq'd corn and other veggies mixed in. The main dish was a prawn dish pineapples and a Jamaican jerk salsa sauce. So good! I'm sure there's fancier culinary words used to describe all this but I think I had too much wine to remember it all.

The other half of our dishes. We made home made tortilla chips and a bean dip that was a mistake but excellent! Oh and we were called "Team Caliente!" Ahh, ya, yay!

The enemies presentation. Same type of dishes, just done up a little differently. Oh, I forgot there was a free range chicken dish also. Our judges were chicken and we ended up in a tie. Boo! All in all it was sooooo much fun! I would highly recommend this for any team event for sure!

Tracy & I had to get this picture in with Jacob since he's our youngest member of Vistage and could possible be on the bachelor one day so we thought we'd get in a picture with him before he becomes too famous to stand next to us! j/k! He's a total sweetheart! Thanks Tracy for organizing our entire event too! You did an awesome job!

She Kei & Speaks Sensei

2009-10-10T00:48:00.000-07:00

It's been around 6 weeks since Makayla had started her Kenpo Karate lessons. She likes it a lot but for some reason she's super shy and doesn't talk to her Sensei at all. Not a peep. He's been trying to get something out of her an nada, zip. She says a few words but not the commands that he wants out of her. He's been very patient and it finally paid off today when she started to "Kei" when doing her blocks & kicks. She's been great at doing all the moves but no words until now. Quite the break through so I had to post a little something to remember it.

Book & Kidsfaire

2009-10-04T23:31:00.001-07:00

There was a little book fair at Orange Coast College today so I decided to take Makayla since we had nothing else going on. Plus one of her favorite books, Fancy Nancy's illustrator, Robin Preiss Glasser was going to be there autographing. It was a beautiful day to walk around outside to see all the different children's books and authors. After the book fair we headed over to the fairgrounds right across the street for a Kidsfaire event. All so much fun!

Here is Makayla with Robin Preiss Glasser after autographing all her books for her girlfriend's Christmas gifts. She was being super shy her so this is all we got with the illustrator.

We're now at the Kidsfaire. Makayla started off by wanting to paint a flower pot for all her plants at home. She did a great job! Super colorful.

Being silly and posing in the little ballerina picture display.

Can't leave a kids even without face painting. Little butterfly.

We watched some roller derby racing to take a little break and then walked over this this fun princess booth that had arts & crafts. Makayla made a wand and then took a pictures with this funny looking princess to me. But she liked her so I guess that's all that matters. That pretty much ended our day and we headed home. Tired girls!

Josie & Nhon's Wedding

2009-10-03T23:45:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, this picture is sideways. For some reason I can't get it to be up and down like it should so just tilt your head to view. haha! I'm over it and my blog is so behind so I just gotta get cranking to get it semi updated. Congrats to Josie & Nhon! They had a beautiful wedding and so glad we were able to be part of it and celebrate with them. It's been a long time since we've been to a wedding and this was a fun one with lots of culture! My kind of of food & entertainment, especially the cool dragon dance.

Cheers to the new Mr. & Mrs. Lam for a wonderful life together!

HSM Second Round

2009-10-01T23:30:00.000-07:00

We went to another showing of High School Musical tonight. This time Ryan was able to make it and Janai came all the way from San Diego to support Alyssa. Rachee also joined us with her Daddy since all these girls just love this movie! Alyssa was even better this time around compared to the first showing which was already good! Amazing the talent that is out there in all these kids!

All the girls sitting so nicely waiting for the show to start!

Here's our star with all her fans! Great job again Alyssa! We're all so proud of you!

Mylee having a blast too! Just love this picture of her cute little face so I had to include it!

Ly's Baby Shower

2009-09-27T23:45:00.000-07:00

We were invited to a beautiful tea party baby shower today. It was at our clubhouse and was nicely decorated by her wonderful friends that gave her the shower. They are all scrapbooking ladies so it was all very crafty and handmade. That's how we know Ly is through scrapbooking. She's very talented and also an instructor. Makayla joined me for the tea party and had lots of fun but she had to be on her best behavior since it was a fancy tea party.

Here's Makayla with the soon to be new Mommy! Oh and BTW, she's having a little girl! Our favorite type of baby in our house! She's going to have so much fun!

Makayla in front of the awesome cake that her brother designed. He also made some beautiful little pastries for us. He's a caterer so he also has lots of talent but in the culinary department. Her friends made super yummy tea bite size sandwiches too and had lots of different types of teas for us to try out. It was cute. That asked everyone to bring their own little tea cup to share. Too bad we didn't own any so Makayla brought one from her toy set. So silly!

Children's Festival

2009-09-26T22:47:00.000-07:00

We ventured to the the mall at South Coast today for their annual Children's Festival. We had nothing better to do so we went to check it out. Lots of fun crafts and things for the kids. Plus there is always a great performance going on, on the main stage. This our 2nd year attending.

Of course there was face painting for free by a great company and we were able to get it in since it's limited as to how many faces they paint. We had lots of fun attending! Loved the singing and crafts the most!

Alyssa's HSM Opening Night

2009-09-25T23:44:00.000-07:00

Our cousin Alyssa was starring in a High School Musical show tonight. We're so proud of her! She's Gabrielle, one of the main characters in the movie. Alyssa is such a talented girl with an awesome voice! We went to cheer her on! So much fun!

Here's my future star! Makayla copying them in "What time is it, summertime....". She's such a little ham. Oh, how they pick up and learn so quickly!

The whole cast! They were awesome! All such great kids! I love that there are programs like this out there! You never know when a star is born and we might have one in the family!

Alexis, Alyssa (our star), & Makayla after the show. We got her flowers and a few backstage grams to cheer her on since this is performance #1 out of 3 or 4 so it's just starting! She did great and we're so proud of her!

Scooter Time

2009-09-24T22:45:00.000-07:00

It's scooter time! Yes, she should be riding this outside but we had to show off the gear and all indoors. She's never done this so she's super excited. We promised her that when she gave up that darn sippy cup with milk at night that this would be her big girl treat! Well, she finally did it! We're so proud of her!

I'm sure just a few days and she'll be pro on this thing! It's a super pink Disney Princess scooter with matching helmet and elbow pads.

Crazy Hair Day

2009-09-22T23:43:00.000-07:00

It's a little crazy today! School is just so much fun with all these fun days for all the kiddos. Sometimes I don't know if she's going to participate but it sure seems like she always does! My little trooper! It was crazy hair day and I wasn't sure what to do but she sure helped me and said "just make it crazy mom". So this was my best shot at it. For those of you that know me I'm not that good at doing hair. Including my own. We stick to the same old same old. Boring!!! haha!

The ratted high pony tail look. She loved the crazy hair today!

Little sis took her to school in their matching dresses and had lots of fun. Mylee played with Makayla for a short period before we had to leave them alone. Fun times!

M&M Matching Girls

2009-09-20T23:55:00.000-07:00

Just my sweet M&M girls in their matching PJ's! So much fun to dress them alike and they just love it! So cute!

Big squeeze from Big Sis!

A glimpse of Halloween PJ's. A little early but what the heck! That's what they wanted to wear tonight.

LSHS Girls Night Out #2

2009-09-19T12:32:00.001-07:00

We were able to get another reunion together just a month after our 1st one! Great job Lacey for putting it all together. It was extra special since our friend Courtney from up north was able to join us for this one. She was here vacationing already so we planned it around her schedule so she could join us. We all met up at BJ's for dinner and drinks.

From right to left, me, Courtney, Melanie (ask why she's covering her chin), Christy, Lacey, Sherri & Desiree. Small and cozy group. A few new one's that didn't come last time and we lost a few due to scheduling conflicts.

Oh and did I forget to mention....DESSERT!!! Their famous Poozukie. We got the sampler since we had all of us to share with and boy was it a monster! It was literally the size of a pizza! So yummy and so worth it nice and warm!

Dig in! Courtney & Mel (yes covering her chin again). My silly BFF! Can't wait to hang out again!

Mylee's 1st Tumbling Class

2009-09-19T12:31:00.000-07:00

Mylee is finally old enough to take some classes through the City now. I'm sure she could have done some sooner but this was around the age that we started taking Makayla where I felt that she could probably get something out of it. We were even iffy with Mylee since she still isn't able to walk on her own without holding on quite yet. And plus her nick name is "Swiper, no swipy!" since she swings at everyone around her so that made us nervous with other kids but hopefully the interaction will help make it better.

Here's her instructor for Tumblin' Kids Mrs. Karen showing her the scarfs. She was okay for a brief minute but overall did not enjoy her first class too much. Lots of attachment issues to me and didn't want to go play with others or anything with the other kids either. Hopefully in due time! On the other hand, her big since joined us and had a blast! At least someone had fun! Makayla got to be the big helper with Mrs. Karen. She loved being such a helping hand!

Here are the girls at the end of class sitting nicely to wait for their hand and foot stamps.

Mylee's Dr. Appt. & Mak's Dental Work

2009-09-18T12:32:00.000-07:00

Well we came back for Mylee's 15-month shots today since she was sick for her check up and couldn't get them previously last month. She didn't do so hot. Not a happy girl at all! So upset but what do you expect. Or she's just not happy around strangers at all. She knew something was up. Now we just have to make it back later for their flu shots. We didn't give it to them since Mak is getting ready for some major dental work today. We had to clear a few questions with the pediatrician too while we were there about Anesthesiologist and kids. We had already made our decision but wanted even more confirmation. Which we got! Whew!

Mylee before going in. She's quite happy in the waiting room just walking around.

Now it's time for Makayla's dental work. This is a very scary day for us and her. I can't believe it was just 7-months ago for her very 1st dental appt. and everything was great. Just some soft enamel to be careful with which we thought we were but obviously not good enough since we're here today for some major dental work. Lots of ugly cavities and possibly 2 crowns too. Not good at all but now we just have to take care of it. The big deal is her being put under today. There are two Anesthegiologist doctor's from UCLA taking care of her. We know she's in good hands but this is just nuts! She's been great and understands how bad her little teethers are so that has made her really give up her sippy cup with milk even. Bad habits that we just couldn't break. She's our first! Now we really learned the hard way but we're not sure if that's even the cause of it. Probably some, but not all since everyone keeps on telling me it's genetics or I think it's environmental or something I ate or had when pregnant! haha! I have to lighten things up a bit since we've been so hard on ourselves about this whole situation.

Myleeboo was a trooper during this whole thing too. We had some miscommunication with Grandma today so that's why Mylee is with us for this long process but it was okay. All worked out and she was a good little girl as you can tell!

Killing time in the kitchen while big sis is in the back getting her procedure done. Probably a 2+ hour wait.

Press play to see Mylee just walking, walking now! Finally! She gets so excited!

Now it's for other toys. This pediatric dentist's office is fantastic! They have all kinds of stuff to keep the kids all occupied. So much fun! Thank you for taking such good care of Makayla. She did great! All was fine! Too bad I was so worried that I didn't take pictures of her with all her wonderful doctor's that took great care of her! Boy are we glad for this to be over. Now we just have to take it easy tonight. Sounds good to cuddle and watch some Princess movies!

Grandparents Day at SCC

2009-09-15T22:48:00.000-07:00

Today is Grandparent's Day at Makayla's preschool. This year my mom attended along with Grandpa Arakaki since Grandma Arakaki got to go last year so she stayed home to take care of little Myleeboo. It was nice for my mom and Stan to spend some time at her school. They made some crafts together and played.

Looks like Mak is coloring with her Ngoai.

And now it's Grandpa's turn.

They sang a cute song for the Grandparents also. Makayla always gets super excited on special days like this to share her crafts and songs with her family. So much fun with all the stuff her preschool does for all of to see.

Our Beach Baptism

2009-09-13T00:19:00.001-07:00

Our amazing day continues with our Baptism this afternoon at the beach! I'm still amazed how Ryan and I both came to make this decision pretty close to the same time. I thought I was making my own journey and exploring and he was also doing his own search that I had no idea about. I guess we did it differently but ended up with the same decision for today to happen together! God does do wonders!

Here we all are getting ready to tell our story about how we found Jesus Christ and why we're here today. It was all very moving and so great to hear every one's amazing story! There were 19 of us that are getting Baptized today from young to older and everything in between.

A view of the celebration with a lot of members from church that came out to witness this amazing day for us! Wonderful group of people!

Now we're waiting for our turn to be officially Baptized together while watching the others before us! Again, all just an absolutely AMAZING experience!

It's time! We're holding hands so tight the whole time! Just an awesome connection we had today! We're ready for the BIG moment!

There goes Ryan first with Pastor Dale. Oh boy, these waves were huge today! God is really out here with us and making his presence known for us today!

It's now my turn since Pastor Bevan waited for that big wave to pass but Pastor Dale didn't so Ry got baptized just a few seconds before I did. Close enough, but here's my turn now.

Big hugs for the Pastors and to each other! I can't even describe the wonderful feeling that I had today!

Yes, it looks cold but it wasn't bad at all!

Here we are after our Baptism! We are new people today with new brothers and sisters all around us!

Little Lexis and Rachee got all wet too because the waves were so big and hard. Even our kiddos came out to support! We're so happy our girls were out there to see this! Our Makayla really understood what we went through today. I pray one day she does the same when she's ready and to say she saw us and remembers will be awesome!

The family that came to support us! We love you all and so very blessed to have you in our lives! Thank you so much for all coming out and always being there to support us!

M&M's Dedication

2009-09-13T00:19:00.000-07:00

It's big morning and day ahead of us! Ryan and I have been attending church now since April and we have learned so much in that time, to the extent that we have decided to Dedicate our girls today to Jesus Christ! We are so excited to have made this wonderful decision for our girls! We hope that we can continue to teach them so that one day they make their own decision to get Baptized on their own. This is a wonderful great start to our commitment. We had our family and closest friends attend which made it even more special! So much love! We are sooooo blessed!

Here we are on stage before service with Pastor Dale, the children's Pastor. We've gotten to know him very well and he knows our girls very well too! Wonderful, sweet and loving man! They gave us some flower and we agreed to a few words of committment for everyone to witness for our girls!

Us and our girls in their little matching white dresses. Always so cute and always so much fun to match them up!

Afterwards we went to Cheesecake Factory for some lunch to celebrate and to celebrate Grandparents Day today also. Makayla is with Auntie Tara here showing off her gifts from them. They are always too sweet and we're so happy to have them in our lives! So thoughtful and generous as always! Thank you, thank you guys!

My parents opened up their Grandparents Day gifts from us. I made them a "FAMILY" block with photos of everyone in our family for them to display. It was so fun to make and they absolutely loved it! So much joy into making gifts!

Ryan's mom shows her blocks and has a big grin! Hope she enjoyed it also! Seems like it!

Now it's Grandpa Stan's turn for a picture! Too bad the girls were too busy and the table was too hard for them to get some pictures with their Grandparents. It was a pretty hectic day with a lot of family supporting us!

All the cutie pie girls getting ready for their lunch. A little coloring always keeps them occupied for a few minutes before the food arrives.

Love this picture of Makayla and one of her best buds Rachee.

Mommy and my sweet Myleeboo!

Outside on this beautiful day at Bella Terra. Letting the kids run around after lunch. Mommy and my other sweet girl, Makayla! The day as been fantastic so far! Couldn't ask for anything better then to be with our family and friends! So much love!

Angel's vs. White Sox Again

2009-09-11T23:30:00.000-07:00

Some free Angel tickets from UPS tonight. Love my job! This is always fun to get for us since it's free, usually pretty good seats since the vendors usually have season tickets and even free parking at times too. Can't pass it up! We had to drop Mylee off at my parents house since she's still coughing and not 100% to be at an Angel game with us. We did miss her!

Makayla is having a great time. We got there and the game had already started but we just relaxed and walked around towards the back family zone. We sat and ate some dinner back there. Tri-tip sandwich from Ruby's and some garlic fries. Yummerz! Mak & her Daddy!

My sweet girl Mak and me!

She was such a ham posing for tons of photos tonight! She's at such a super fun age with all kinds of personality just blossoming!

I think she thinks she's cute as can be here! And yes, she's just doing this pose all on her own and even told me she wanted the field behind her. The girl is too much! Even picking her scenery for her pictures.

We finally made it to our seats! Great seats too! Right on the terrace level not too far away from home plate and 3rd base side. Choppin' away on her cotton candy! One happy little girl tonight! Always good treats at baseball games.

On our way out we passed by the team store. We had to get a photo of her with the World Champion trophy! Go Angels!

Mak's 2nd Dentist Visit

2009-09-10T18:33:00.001-07:00

It's time for Makayla's 6-month cleaning. Her 2nd visit ever. She did great back in March for her first visit ever and everything was perfect then with some minor things to watch like soft enamel and one little pinhole cavity that might be forming due to her sippy cup addition before she goes to sleep on one of her bottom front tooth.

Well, this visit was the quite the shocker for me and I thought it was going to be easy peezy but boy was I wrong. Her teeth had really deteriorated since our visit just 6 short months ago. I felt like such a bad Mommy! I wish her Daddy came with us since I had trouble holding it together to be strong for her. She had lots of cavities that were very visible when the dentist pointed them out. So much work that we are going to have to think long and hard about what the next steps were. Most likely even some crowns! The dentist kept telling me that a lot of it is genetic but that still didn't make me feel better. But a lot of it had to do with her milk addition so this was hard lesson but one we're going to learn from for sure. Whatever it is we're going to just have to take care of it is the bottom line! Overall she was great with her cleaning and a bit nervous when the dentist was talking to me about the issues but she understood what was happening. My poor baby! We'll keep you posted on this little hurdle.

Lemon Cupcakes

2009-09-05T23:33:00.000-07:00

Just a cute video clip of our mini Betty Crocker! She just loves to help out in the kitchen with everything to dishes, baking and making meals. My big helper!

Yummy lemon cupcakes! Want some?!

First Day of Preschool - Yellow Room

2009-09-04T00:51:00.001-07:00

It's the first day of school and Makayla's 2nd year of preschool. She was able to transition to the yellow room over the summer so she got a little use to the classroom but too bad the teachers changed. Not bad, they're all great but she was just getting use to her summer school teachers and then bam, the regular school year starts and there's a new set of teachers to get use to. She still had a little bit of separation anxiety when I dropped her off but overall she loves school. She just wants me to stay with her, which I never do but boy is she persistent.

She's super excited about her pretty dress for the 1st day of school and meeting her new teachers. She seemed to know who they were already which was great to get her prepared. She even posed in front of the welcome easel for a picture just like she did last year. Oh, how they just remember.

Welcome to her yellow room.....from Mrs. D & Miss. Danielle. They were both super nice and friendly when we arrived.

Here's Mrs. D one of her new teachers.

And now with Miss. Danielle. She's super sweet! It's going to be a fun filled year with lots of learning ahead of us! We're so excited for the new year and room! Our girl is just growing way too fast!

Mani/Pedi Night

2009-09-01T21:03:00.000-07:00

We had a fun mani/pedi spa night to get the girls all ready for their 1st day of school tomorrow! Summer is officially over! Boo! I found an old foot spa in the closets and Makayla and her cousins had a good time soaking up their toesies.

Makayla getting pampered by her cousin Alyssa. It was so cute listening to them and their role playing also. Full on conversations just like if you were at the nail salon.

Patty pampering her little Alexis! This is a big deal since this is the first time Alexis is going to preschool! What a good way to end the summer with tonight and a great beach day this afternoon. It's going to be another great school year!

Little CDM Beach

2009-09-01T20:59:00.000-07:00

Our one and only real beach day of the summer. Kind of sad since we live by the beach. Just no time or when there was it was a crowded weekend. So today we took a day off with some of our friends and headed down to Little Corona Del Mar. Even more sad that we didn't even go to our local beach in HB. But it was well worth it. It's been a long time since we've down to this area. Probably when Ryan and I took our engagement photos which was over 7 years ago. The morning started off slightly gloomy but then warmed up real quick for us. It was great since it was a weekday so it was crowded at all. We spent all day there just chillin'! Super small and clean beach! We highly recommend and will be back for sure next year! Hopefully a little bit more often.

Ryan and his baby girl Mylee! She's lovin' it so far! That's Naters right behind him and little Macaila (Ry's old buddy's little girl, not our little Makayla).

All the girls are right in the sand already making their holes and building away. My Makayla was not lovin' this idea of wet sand and ickyness! She is my super clean little girl. She eventually got into it but it took some time of just watching what a good time her friends were all having.

Ryan taking Mylee out to the water for a little dip to cool off. She really enjoyed it!

Makayla and her cousin Alexis. We took her and her big sis out to the beach today since she starts school tomorrow and her parents had to work. So glad we did since Makayla always has a blast with her favorite cousins!

The hole got much bigger by now! All so cute surrounding it and digging and scooping.

Mylee sunbathing. She's just too cute so just posting as much as I can! Plus this is her 1st trip to the beach

The very cool "Daddy's". Nate, Mike and Ry. All old high school buddies.

Makayla really got into it by now! She's going into the water and filling up her bucket with water and all. She's having a blast now and there's her cousin Alyssa right behind her. She takes such good care of our Makayla, no wonder she just adores her big cousin!

Are we posing like super models? Look at that Rachee! She's too much! Look out Nate!

We took the girls for a walk along the beach down towards the tide pools. They had fun looking for shell treasures there and back. The tide pools were lots of fun and rocky but we managed to maneuver around and get all close up to the caves.

Yes, yes all cutie pie girls in our group today! Trouble, trouble!

What a super fun beach day! As you can tell by Mylee her she absolutely loved it! My tanned little baby girl! Can't wait to do more often next summer for sure. It just keeps getting better and better and funner and funner!

Legoland

2009-08-31T21:00:00.000-07:00

It's time for some more summer fun with a trip to Lego land! This is our first trip there. Everyone kept on telling us it's great for Makayla's age and they were right! But even our little Myleeboo had a great time! It wasn't too crowded at all and lots to see and explore! It was cute from the entrance where everything is really made out of these little amazing Lego's.

We started and entered towards the dinosaur era. That elephant behind us was made out of Lego's and was squirting water out of his truck! So cool! There were giraffes and all kinds of fun animals.

Mylee was having a blast in the dinosaur egg while big sis was waiting in line to ride the big roller coaster!

Mylee just hanging out and making some new friends. This little boy was so cute. He wanted to play with her and they just kept on grunting at each other. It was cute their little communication.

Mylee sitting in front of a dinosaur made out of Lego's. I'm still amazed what they can make with them. So much detail!

After some fun rides we went to an area where the girls were able to make some things out of Lego's. We had fun in this little store but the Lego's were too small for Mylee so we didn't stay long.

Off to pirate town where everyone got wet! It was a nice hot day so it was fun to cool off for a bit here. It was packed in this area and the kids were all having fun! But for some reason Makayla wasn't interested in any of the water rides. Good thing since the lines were long! Instead she wanted to play some games. She won great prizes! She played on one and won herself a little rabbit. Then she insisted that she play another one to win a prize for her sister too. Boy was she confident! Sure enough she was right and won her sister this big pirate ducky. It was even a bigger one than normal so she really did win a big prize!

Ryan an his sleeping beauty walking down the Las Vegas Strip all made out of Lego's. There were a bunch of these little mini famous towns and cities. So neato!

He had stopped here to have lunch and we got to overlook NYC! Makayla lovin' her new bunny rabbit she won. I just love this picture of her!

This was a great area where the girls both got to play with giant Lego's! As you can tell from Mylee's face that she's having a lot of fun!

Our M&M girls! Princess Makayla got her face painted in the fairy tail princess area. She loves getting her face painted.

Some more shots of the girls playing. Sorry so many pictures to post! I just can't get enough of all the priceless expressions!

My little ballerina poses with Bob the Builder. This was a great fun show we got to see in 3D!

My little daredevil and her Daddy on this ride that went up and down pretty high but Makayla just loved it! Yelling and screaming but all in good fun! The lines were so short here that I think she rode this a few times in a row! What a great fun filled day at Lego land! We stayed from open to close and pretty much made it through the whole park. We'll definitely be back again next year!

Jessica's 5th Birthday

2009-08-29T00:11:00.000-07:00

Makayla and Mylee both went to celebrate Jessica's 5th birthday at Chuck E. Cheese's today. Ryan was a great Daddy and took both girls all on his own. I think I might of been scrappin' with the girls today. They all had so much fun!

There's J the birthday girl and silly Makayla having so much fun with each other. They were buddies!

Mak's 1st Martial Arts Private Lesson

2009-08-29T00:10:00.000-07:00

So we've decided to let our little Makayla take some martial art lessons. Her preschool teacher's boyfriend is an instructor nearby so it's very convenient. He teaches at a great school for United Studios of Self Defense. We believe that this will be very good for her and give her more confidence and discipline. She is doing a Kenpo Karate. This was her first official lesson and she did great! She doesn't talk to her Sensei Mike at all but she sure does all the moves real well.

Doesn't she look great in her Gi!

Her stance and bow with her Sensei before they start their lesson. Good discipline. They also have to bow before they go onto the carpet towards the American flag also.

Practicing her kicks. Not bad!

Her jumps were pretty good too! Our girls got some hops to avoid falling as the hammer goes towards her.

A quick movie clip of her hits and blocks. It's so cute!

All done! Not bad for her 1st official lesson at all! She did FANTASTIC! This is at the end of the lesson where she learned to take her belt off and fold it in front of her. They bow again and then meditate for a few seconds. She didn't say one word but gave her Sensei plenty of Hi 5's! We're so excited to see how she progresses with all this!

Hula Luau Part 2

2009-08-25T23:47:00.000-07:00

We decided to let Makayla take another hula class this summer since she was sick for most of the previous session and only made it out to 2 or 3 classes. So at the original recital she really didn't do much at all, but she really enjoyed it. The sessions are short so it's perfect to end the summer before ballet starts again since that seems to be more of her passion and she keeps telling me she doesn't want to give it up.

The Grandma's came to cheer her on! And little sis did too!

This show was much better. We got there extra early and got front row seating instead of outside the door like last time. Overall this show was less of a turnout. Smaller classes and end of summer so I think most families are on vacation. Here she is before the show with her Daddy.

Cuddling with Grandma's again.

All the hula classes sitting so nicely waiting for their turn.

Her first song! I just loved this pose so much!

That's the Hawaiian in me! She did great!

Sitting on stage for her next performance, Pearly Shells. Too bad I couldn't upload this video for some reason.

The end of the show! Just shake it!

Mak with her Daddy after the show. Too spoiled! He got her this awesome lei to wear afterwards!

Me & my girl! She was awesome this time around! So proud of her!

Bananas Fosters

2009-08-24T22:10:00.001-07:00

So not sure why we got on a Banana's Foster's kick. I know we had some a few months ago on our anniversary so maybe that's why it came up? Or maybe we just had lots of ripe bananas! Anyways, Ry found this great recipe online and got all the ingredients for us to make it! It was awesome!

Cooking and warming up the bananas in it's sauce!

The final creation! Not so pretty but oh so good! Served warm with a dollop of vanilla ice cream! Mmmmm! Good!

Sea World

2009-08-23T23:48:00.000-07:00

We made a long fun weekend out of Aidan's birthday celebration! After his party we headed over to my brother's place to relax and spend some time with them and the rest of the family. He BBQ'd for us and then we spent the night to be ready in the morning to spend the day at Sea World! We've already gone this year and had the pass to go again all year long for free so we took advantage of that.

Here's Makayla with Bria, one of my brother's rottweilers. She's super nice and Makayla's favorite. She likes the girl doggie! Zeus the other Rot is still a puppy so much more hyper and wants to play and Bria is more mellow so that's why I think Makayla likes her better. She just chills and Mak can just pet her. Zeus is more of a licker and nudger for her to throw toys and play. My brother had some friends come over too for the BBQ and my parents also stayed so it was nice to just hang out & relax. My brother's friends had Vietnamese parents like ours so boy did they have so much in common to chat about. It was cute to listen to them reminisce about the old days and how things were because they brought over great DVD's for us to watch of Vietnam. So beautiful! We also had some super hot chili peppers that they brought from their garden and everyone was screaming how hot it was! That's rare since my parents eat SPICY! I didn't even try since it made my dad sweat because it was so HOT! They had a little boy that Makayla played with. Dillion was just a little bit younger and they had so much fun together!

Here we are at Sea World the next day! Woke up to an awesome home made breakfast by Uncle Binh.....is famous Ebelskivers! Oh and my sis-in-law Janai woke me up to work out at the YMCA too before going! So it was a busy morning alright!

Catching our first show, the Dophin encounter. Mylee really enjoyed it! But boy was it hot out! Good thing there was a slight breeze from time to time! I hope we get wet to cool off! I know Makayla wanted to sit in the splash zone so that's where we're at! Too bad we really didn't get wet. Still a little too far up I guess.

So we didn't get wet at the show but She's really getting wet in Elmo's World. We spent a lot of time here. It's a super cute area for the little one's. She had her suit on and ready to play! It was so nice too cool off! Mylee was going down for a nap in her stroller right about now so no getting wet for her!

Check out Makayla's little obstacle course run! She had a blast! Don't forget to press play. It's a video.

Mak & Elmo. She was hesitant at first and then changed her mind. She loved him!

Oh boy, was she happy to see these two girls! They were having a little parade and then Makayla wanted me to follow them. Good thing since they went right in for pictures and we were right there to be one of the firsts! Zoe and Abby Cadabby! She was in heaven!

Ernie & Bert were right next to the girls and she didn't want to see them but they somehow talked her into it and she even got that close to Ernie for him to hold her. She liked them after all. Great day in Elmo's World. Too bad Mylee was asleep that whole time!

The rest of the day was pretty relaxed. We had lunch and walked around and did whatever Makayla wanted. We didn't even see another show. So it was pretty mellow. She went and touched all the starfish and sea cucumbers in this area.

Mylee finally woke up and also wanted to touch the starfish! She was excited to see them! The we walked over to the Honu's (Sea Turtles in Hawaiian). Great day spent at Sea World for sure! I love it when we don't have to rush to see and do everything!

Aidan's 2nd Birthday

2009-08-22T23:47:00.000-07:00

We're down in San Diego today celebrating Aidan's 2nd birthday! Can't believe he's 2 already! His Mommy had a monkey themed party for him on the greenbelt right across from their house. Super nice community and super nice day to spend a day out in the park. There was a big jumper and small one and all kinds of yummy snacks and food catered from El Pollo Loco! Totally great idea!

All just jumpin' away when we got there. Aidan' is the little boy to the left in front! He was dripping in sweat and having a great time!

Can you tell my girl is a party animal too? haha! She was napping when we got there. She slept great out there in her stroller for about an hour. Then she was well rested and ready to go! Food and play!

Here's Miss. Mak helping her buddy Aidan with the bubbles. Hope they're sharing here! They were great! There was also a sand station right next to the bubbles that was also lots of fun for the kids.

Makayla met some friends but she's played with them before. These are Aidan's cousins.

Argh! Chompin' on her favorite shave ice! Hit the spot for this warm day!

It's time for presents! My girl Makayla is right there helping Uncle Doug and Aidan! Totally fun and mellow party! It was nice to relax and just watch the kids outdoors and chill with everyone. That doesn't happen often in our family. Good times! Thanks for the invite and Happy Birthday Aidan!

Harvest Crusade

2009-08-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

Wow is all I can say! I can't believe I'm here and it's my hubby's idea. This was a big deal for me and a huge step for the both of us! The big reason was our favorite Christian musician Chris Tomlin was playing so that was the main motivator, but it was just God's plan for us. The event was at Anaheim Stadium where the Angels play. It is scheduled to start at 6pm so we got there a little bit after 4pm and it was packed already. We walked around and around to almost the entire stadium before we got to the end of the line to get in. While we were waiting they opened up a line to get in quicker if you didn't have a bag or purse. If I would've known I would've left mine behind but oh well, live and learn. So Ry got in that line so that he could maybe get in and get a seat. And good thing he did because he got us descent seating in the shade at least under the Terrace section. Too bad we couldn't see the front of the stage but I guess you probably had to camp out the night before to get those. haha! It was still great since we had a great view of the Jumbotron and just being there was simply an amazing experience that I can't even describe!

Here's the man that makes this happen every year. Greg Laurie. This is the first time I've heard him speak and he was fantastic and very inspirational! This was a super special year for us to attend. It was the Harvest Crusade's 20th year! I didn't realize it's been around for that long and now I know it's going to be one that lasts forever and ever.

This is the main reason we went, Chris Tomlin is on stage! Singing "Your Grace Is Enough". Sorry it's a little bouncy but I was dancing and singing while taping a bit to remember and look back on. He was the main reason but it was so much more before he even came to stage. The message was perfect. Helped me to understand Heaven and eternity.

Had to tape this one too since this is my hubby's favorite song by him. Too bad he didn't play mine, which is "Indescribable". Awesome, awesome, awesome! All of it! All the music and all the bands were great!

Just a sign of the stage from the back when we were down on the field. Keep reading and I'll tell you more about the field.

Here is a close up of Chris Tomlin and his band. Can't believe how close I was to him!

Here we are down on the field dedicating ourselves together. I was so ready and made my decision officially when he Greg was explaining the whole thing. I was crying and the emotions and feelings were just so amazing! I know I've been saying that a lot but I really don't know how to describe it. And it's not a feeling I've ever experienced before. I'm so happy that Ry decided to come down with me. I know that was a huge step for him also. This event made me realize that he's been exploring just as much as I have and I didn't think so or he approached in a totally different manner which is totally okay since it seems like we're going the same path and pretty close to the same pace even.

When we were done with our personal prayers and getting our bibles we headed back to our seats. This is a shot from the seats as to how many people went down to dedicate themselves for the 1st time or just again. What a great feeling tonight! So glad we went! Thank you to my wonderful husband for taking me!

2nd Session Hula

2009-08-16T00:15:00.001-07:00

We signed Makayla up for another hula class this summer. There were two sessions and they're pretty short so I'm glad I did since she was sick for so long for the 1st class this summer that she really only went to 3 classes and then had the recital which she really didn't do much because she really didn't know the songs and routine. So here we are again and she goes with Grandma Arakaki and I pick her up from there on my way home from work. I went a little early today to video tape her progress and boy was I impressed! It was like night and day how much she knew and it's only been a few weeks. I guess consistency really helps the learning for sure!

Here she is doing a great job at "That's the Hawaiian in me"! So cute! I know some of you might be tired of these songs and postings but I just love it and can't get enough!

Pearly Shells.

Her instructor, Miss. Melody. Boy, this lady can shake it! Shaka!

Chuck E. Cheese's

2009-08-15T22:48:00.000-07:00

Don't know why we decided to go to Chuck E. Cheese's today since we really don't ever go there. Maybe it was the coupon and my girls have been such good girls for this special treat! Makayla again was thrilled! Her cousins were going to join us but not sure what came up and they couldn't but she still wanted to go and we promised so here we are.

We went for dinner so it's pizza and wings time! Both my girls just love pizza! Pepperoni and olives! Their fav!

Mylee's asking, where's my drink? I'm thirsty too?

Mylee boo sitting on her first ride at Chuck E. Cheeses and she's not too thrilled.

Sister on the other hand loves it!

Mylee likes this type of ride better, the floor. Icks!

Daddy & Makayla concentrating on their games. They won lots of tickets for some goodies in the end. Good times tonight and a great treat for my girls! They had a blast! Boy how life has changed. Never would have thought that this could be that fun! But I bet it could get old if we went all the time, but that's like anything out there.

RIP Uncle Henry

2009-08-15T21:59:00.000-07:00

May Uncle Henry rest in peace. We got the sad news last week that he had passed on to heaven. He apparently had a heart attack at lunch with his wife, our Auntie Klareen. This is one of Ryan's mom's sister. They live out in Bloomington so we didn't get to see them often at all. Just during the holidays when Ryan and I first dated for years. They also came to our wedding but then the years went on where we'd exchange holiday cards and things but never saw them again and go the updates from mom as to how they were doing. I guess Uncle's heath was no longer great and Auntie doesn't drive far or on freeways so they didn't join us for any family gatherings. I'm just sorry that we didn't realize how bad it was and never got to see him recently before he passed.

Here is Auntie with Mom & Dad at the funeral service. It was a very nice service and Auntie and Uncle were very spiritual and very involved in their church so Auntie had great support. We know through this that Uncle is really now at peace!

After the church service we went to the burial service which was also very nice for Uncle Henry. His family arranged a mariachi band to play some nice music during the burial and also did a wonderful pigeon releasing since he raised and took care of pigeons as a hobby. It was nice.

After the services, we were all invited back the church for some lunch. There we got to sit and talk to a few people that Ryan's family has known for a long time. This is him and Jacob which is one of Auntie's close friend's son. I guess they played together when they were young. Now look at them all grown up! It was nice for them to all catch up and for me to meet them. There were more people but I felt weird taking pictures during the funeral services even though Auntie asked me to. I'm glad we were all able to head out there to be there for Auntie during this tough time. God Bless Auntie & RIP Uncle! We will one day meet again! As for Auntie we will arrange to get out there for lunch or dinner and just visits for sure now that we know she won't be able to come to us anymore.

Buccaneer Water Park

2009-08-15T08:32:00.000-07:00

We headed out to my old neck of the woods when I was a kid, good old La Mirada Park. Wow when we got there! So much has changed that I didn't even recognize the park anymore. There were buildings everywhere an this little water park and pools. It was just a good old fashioned park before with lots of green grass and open space. We met up with my cousins to spend the day there. Makayla was so excited!

Here I am taking a little dip in with Mylee. She had to wear this very cumbersome life jacket. I guess for safety reasons but really, the area we were in was only like 1ft deep. Makayla was already off with her cousins.

Here we all are! The girls! There were great slides and lots of stuff going on with water. Floating tubes, water falls and just sitting around in the water. The girls all had such a great time!

Makayla is happy as a clam! She just loved it all so much and went on and on non-stop!

Daddy and Mylee. She also loved it! It was a nice warm day and the water was perfectly cool for us. I can't believe she kept that hat on.

Happy girl playing in the water!

Now it's time for a snack and to lounge in my chair.

Me and my girl Mylee bear! She just loved this water park! We'll definitely be back for sure! Thanks to Ryan's co-worker for telling us about it. It was the perfect water park for little kiddos. I was super comfortable with them and all the kids played pretty nicely and all under control. So much fun! We stayed until they closed at around 5pm. Long day but worth every penny! Afterwards we headed to visit my parents for a bit since they were just around the corner and then we headed out to Spaghetti Factory for dinner since that's what Mak wanted.

80's Hair & Smore's

2009-08-13T22:46:00.000-07:00

We've had so many fun nights with Makayla's cousin's this summer! It's been the best summer ever for us! I think as my girls continue to grow each year to do more and more that summertime is just going to be better and better! We had a fun night tonight. The girls played and dressed up, did hair and made smores'. What a perfect night!

This was just funny photo of what Auntie Patty did to Makayla's hair. Totally 80's! Like for sure!

Roasting marshmallows in our fire pit in the backyard. They made some smores' for us and had their own with just the graham cracker and no chocolate for them. Wowzers! That doesn't seem so normal for little one's that usually love candy! While they were smoring they decided that we should set up a tent and have a camp out one night. So I guess I'm on the hunt for a tent now.

Western Day & M&M Bathtime

2009-08-11T23:31:00.000-07:00

It's Western week at school and dress up day! Summer school is so much fun. Each week seems to be some sort of fun theme along with lots of wet water days which Makayla just loves!

Yeehaw! Is she the cutest little cowgirl ever! Thanks Rachee and Mia for passing down great clothes!

Our girls are now taking their baths together and just love it! Makes things much easier now that we can just take care of bathtime for them all at the same time. Makayla pretends to swim even in the bathtub. She's so silly with her crazy goggles. Her lil sis just gets a kick out of her!

Mylee Driving & Hula Practice at Home

2009-08-10T22:19:00.000-07:00

This post is strictly videos of our girls so check it out. If you haven't noticed, I added some music to the blog. It does get in the way of you hearing the actual video but you can pause the music on the right hand side where the player is at before you play each video clip. Hope that helps. Sorry if it's annoying but my Makayla wanted music on her blog like some of her friends out there.

Mylee is finally walking while holding onto her walking car toy. She's getting there......little by little. She's almost 15-months old and no walking but that's okay. I'm not rushing the walking part since I know it's going to be over and very difficult to chase both girls down! It's already hard enough with her crawling as fast as she does now. She's practicing here with my Dad. He just adores her like you wouldn't believe!

Makayla is really practicing her hula recital tonight. She was so cute just belting it out "That's the Hawaiian in me".

Gotta listen to her "Pearly Shells", she's so animated and it really does seem like she's reading the words to that song on the paper. She's so silly! These are the priceless moments as parents!

Watermelon Tour

2009-08-09T21:59:00.001-07:00

It was a nice day to head out to Tanaka Farms after church for their annual watermelon tour since we didn't have any plans today. On our way out we called Rachee to join us and she did with her Dad. Auntie Som & Uncle Alan also joined us. Before we headed over we stopped at Togo's for some sandwiches to eat the farm since it's just about lunch time.

These two guys just love each other! They are so silly together. Such great Dads for their girls!

Mylee enjoying the wagon ride tour with Daddy.

Our first stop for some fresh farm tasters are the cherry tomatoes. They were so yummy and sweet. Mylee loved it and kept wanting more and more!

My Makayla really enjoying her tomatoes also. So good for her! There were a few more stops for some other tasters like green onions, cilantro and some other herbs. So fresh and yummy! It all smelled so good!

Now for a little pit stop to get off the wagon and head under some tents for some more tasting, but one's that had to be chopped up. The first round was zucchini's and then cucumbers which Makayla also loved. My veggie girl!

Finally the watermelons! Just what we've been waiting for! Think the girls like them in this picture? Choppin' away with her buddy Rachee.

A family photo with our watermelons! One of my favorite fruits and for my girls too. The love it!

Mak and her Auntie & Uncle all enjoying their watermelon.

Mylee tasting some yellow watermelon for the first time. She enjoyed it alright but she enjoys ALL foods! These melons have a slightly different consistency and taste. We like the standard

red ones!

After all the tasters we had our chance to pick our own watermelon, but really we didn't pick them, they were already sitting in a pile for us, but the girls enjoyed choosing the perfect one to take home.

The girls are so proud of their melons! Rachee helped Makayla pick hers out and really liked the smaller one for sure. Thanks Rachee! You took such great care of your buddy Mak!

Everyone and their melons to take home! Now it's time for the wagon ride back.

The tour is done and we stayed on the premises for some photos and then headed out since it was getting pretty hot out there. We all had so much fun! Thanks for all joining us!

Another Pool Day

2009-08-08T21:07:00.000-07:00

Yes another pool day! Just the perfect little summer so far! We've had lots of weekends to just hang out by the pool so the girls can have their pool time since they just love it! This time Stace was able to bring Rachael out to play with Makayla so she was so excited. Of course Uncle Alan and Auntie Som were both out there too like they have been with most weekends with us after church.

Is Mylee going to jump into the pool with Daddy? Practicing her Humpty Dumpty!

Hi Everyone!

Rachael, their new friend in the middle that they met at the pool but I don't recall her name. Sweet little girl! They all had fun in the pool together.

Miss. Mak taking a break to sunbath and have some snacks.

Ryan & Phil's 34th BBQ

2009-08-08T02:07:00.000-07:00

We had a summer BBQ for Ryan & Phil's birthday at our house today since their birthday's are just a few days apart. I wanted to do a beach/bonfire day but it wasn't worth all the hassle to go out there early for a pit and stay all day. It's just too hard nowadays with little ones. For as close as we do live by the beach we really don't get down there like we should. Anyhoo, it was a nice and relaxing afternoon to spend with family and friends.

Some of the guys starting up the Q for some simple burgers and hot dogs.

Some of the crew just hanging out in the backyard ready for some grub!

The birthday boys! Of course the girls are all right in there to help blow out the candles too!

Don't know how I ended up drinking wine in a sippy cup? Silly goose I am!

More of the crew after some grub since it's now dark. Everyone just hanging out and catching up since it's been awhile since we've seen everyone. Probably since April when Alan and Som got married.

Rachael and Makayla playing with the Playdoh along with all the other kiddos. Boy were there lots of kids tonight. Funny how life has so changed and how the kids really have taken over.

Now the girls are cooking in their kitchen. All the kids had so much fun! Bubbles and chalk outside and lots of toys in the garage playroom to play with too. It was like a tornado but boy did they all have fun and so worth it to see them all play together.

I guess the night is still young for some poker time! Some of the guys stuck around to play a few rounds of cards. It was a good evening with some great company! Good times! Happy Birthday to two of my favorite guys! Hope you both had tons of fun!

Martial Arts Evaluation

2009-08-08T00:53:00.000-07:00

Makayla is getting evaluated to see if she's ready for martial arts since she's pretty young but we think she's coordinated and ready! We found out about this school and instructor through friends from her preschool. Very highly recommended and even better that the instructor is her preschool teacher's boyfriend, Sensei Mike!

Here she is getting started. We headed over after her My Gym class so not sure if she'll be tired or not but she's thrilled about it. Something new I think. She bowing to the American Flag here before they start. So cute!

Check out the form on those arms and the legs ready for a kick! I think she's gonna be a natural!

I believe this school is pretty famous since I've seen their tree logo often.

Another great form picture with her horse stance. Not bad for her first time ever trying it out. She didn't say one word to Sensei Mike but she loved him and gave him tons of high 5's and followed all his instructions. He thinks she's totally ready and going to be awesome. It's the shy one's in the beginning that are usually his best students is what he told us. We'll see. We're going to think about it and get back to him since it's pretty pricey and we'll have to give up on some other activities to fit this into our schedule. We're so glad this went well and we're so proud of her!