Santa is not real...

Pi, you shared with me that you told some kids in Pipeline that you dont believe Santa is real. You shared with them these details almost verbatim: "Dont you see that there are different Santas in different malls? It's your mom and dad that puts the gifts under the tree. Santa is just for fun."

Until you met Santa who came to Tessa's house.... You remain conflicted due to his real beard. The verdict is still out whether you believe in Santa or not.

Papa's Birthday

We celebrated Papa's 66th birthday last night at Banana Bay and Piper you loved eating your Garlic Pork with rice and Phoenix, you had 3 servings of egg noodle soup. Everyone came out and had a great time. Our favorite part was walking over to Yogurtland. We were on an adventure. You guys and even Mico were carried on the shoulder by an adult. Phoenix, you and Mico ran back and forth with such limited space and had a blast. It was nice to see you so comfortable and yourself as you played the alpha dog.

Winter Break 2011

Piper, you and I are off for 3 weeks. It has been a glorious 2 weeks and 5 days. It is soon coming to an end. Phoenix, you started school this week but was able to be with you in the classroom 2 out of the 5 days. You remain to be the happiest kiddo on the block. So... a recap.

- Piper, you asked Santa for cat toys (to give to Custard- your stuffed animal cat)

- Phoenix, you got an Angry Birds game set.

-Sleep over with Bella, Mia, Chance, Tessa, Sienna, and Andress

- going to the park almost everyday

-Piper, we had 2 days of reading and crafts nonstop for at least 4 hours

-Daddy and I managed to go on a date for a sushi dinner and a movie (Twilight- it sucked)

-went to our annual tradition of the Newport Boat Show

-made and decorated sugar cookies on Christmas Eve

We had tons of fun but most of all, we were all together as a family for the whole 3 weeks.

3 years later...

Piper, you are now soon to be 6 years old (in 17 days) and Phoenix you are 4 years old. Although much has happened in the last 3 years, we'll just pick it up during current times.

Piper, you're now in kindergarten in a class where everything is in Spanish. You love it and even speak to us in Spanish from time to time without realizing you're speaking in a different language. You look to us for a response only to get a blank stare. You are learing to show the image of Christ with your kindess.

Phoenix, you are in LAUP (same class as your ate's from last year). Ms. Laura is your teacher and love playing with your buddy Evan. Just a few days ago, I volunteered in your class and watched you shoot spider webs at him. Very cute. You too are showing what it looks like to be a made in the image of Christ as you are very thoughtful and comforting.

Wild Animal Park

We went to the Wild Animal Park today and you guys just love feeding the ducks. We saw a bird show and Phoenix your eyes just lit up. Piper, you of course got your souvenir penny to add on to your collection. I think the best part of your visit though is playing with the ticket machine. Go figure!

Disney's California Adventure

August 13, 2008
Today we went to Disney’s California Adventure. Phoenix, you are a bit young to appreciate this outing but we still included you in half the rides. The others half was spent in the carrier that you love so much and need when you refuse to go to sleep. Piper on the other hand was a surprise for us. You didn’t refuse any of the rides and enjoyed each of them. From the huge ferris wheel to rides high in the sky that go round and round. Come to think of it all of the rides went round and round. That is why Phoenix spent half the time with me. I just want to puke after the rides. When you get a little older Phoenix, it’s going to be twice as fun seeing you both enjoy a day at the amusement park. For now, we’re glad you enjoyed yourself Piper. I know I did with you on my shoulders during the Pixar parade.
-daddy

Piper's First Pinata

You have been to so many parties this summer with pinatas but have always hesitated to hit it. Until Jonavan's 2nd birthday, where you stepped up to bat and hit that Sponge Bob pinata with all of your might. Wow! Your daddy and I were gleaming with pride. Granted that you and your daddy have been practicing at home and at times Phoenix's head ends up being your target practice, you still did an awesome job. As you slowly come out of your shell, we are both happy and also sadened because our little baby girl is turning into just a little girl.