Month 3 in Germany

We have finally settled in and unpacked the last box! The other day when Dan and I were driving home, we finally felt like its home and not some place we are living temporarily.I wouldn't say the adjust some easy, we definitely take some comforts of home for granted...such as Target, grocery stores opening on Sundays, costco, and the access to community and friends. The military community presence is very strong, but people are coming and going its not easy making friends. We have met a great couple from Florida, she use to be Mary Poppins and he was the Disney wedding photographer. We went to Paris together and have hung out a few times. Its nice to be able to sit down and just hang out. The other treat is that Adam Ching's mom is here for about 17 months with her husband. Who would of thought? we live about 20-30min away and its definitely so nice to see a familiar face and having someone that knows you from home.

Thanksgiving we spent in Paris. We took the fast train called ICE that goes up to 324km/hr. We were in Paris in 2.5 hours! It was crazy to be in Germany and then next thing we walk out the train station, it was all in French! We stayed around the Opera District and took the Metro around. It was quite a workout bring three kids up and down the metro, but was fun for us and the kids. We had our "Thanksgiving dinner" on the Eiffel tower with our new friends, the Strakas. We didn't dare to go into Museums but went to the Louvre and that was enough for the kids. They loved the glass pyramid entrance. I did eat a lot of asian foods as where we are in Germany, those were hard to come by. Isaac often ask as we roam around the streets of Paris, "mom, are you looking for Chinese food?" We finished the weekend with a night river cruise on the Seine and seeing the city all lite up and a ferris wheel ride by the Champ Elysees.
The kids are adjusting better. Sometime I wonder how do they play with other kids when they don't understand a word? I guess play is universal. Isaac is so big now, he is really growing up. We've been having a hard time for him to get the pull up off at bedtime. He is okay with nap for about a month now we told him no pull up after his birthday. Last night, he did not whine about putting a pull up and was able to wake up in the middle of the night and get me to take him potty. No accidents!
Jed is the bull headed, sweet spirited child...talk about Mr. Independence. He wants to do everything himself even if it takes an extra 30 min. Dan has him trained that every time he gets home, he would take off his coat, tucks his socks in his shoes and put them in his little cubby. At two year old, he is already pooping about 30% of the time on the toilet! Baby Gabe is just like his name, an angel! He is so sweet. God has given us a great baby knowing our circumstance of moving. He is easy to travel with and slept through the night at 10 weeks! He is now sharing a room with his two older brothers.

Dan did his first solo surgery yesterday. Wow, sometimes I can believe he is a surgeon! I am so proud of him as cheesy as it sounds. Him and I are still trying to get a routine down of working out, date nights, traveling, and stuff, but I have to say, all this moving is really helping us grow closer. The reality of it all is there is no one closer than each other and we have to learn to communicate...we are working on that was we go :) well, I hope this gives everyone a quick update on the Solversons!

Gabe the babe

Our smiling baby!

First Month in Germany

Can't believe it, we just passed the one month mark of being in a foreign country. I have to say, just last week as we were driving home to our apartment that we finally feel like we were "going home." Our house goods should be coming in soon..we are living in a 1500 sq foot flat with four bedrooms on top of a Baptist church and above us is a Vietnamese couple who are also pastors. We are on a dead end with a park across the street...pictures to come...

Last weekend, we took our first adventure and went across the border to Metz, France. We visited one of the biggest flea markets and St. Steven's Cathedral, which was so Gothic its almost creepy. The kids did well on the car ride. It was weird driving and suddenly we were in France.

The kids are adjusting well..slowly..we still haven't set a "schedule" like we did before. Day to day could be so different its hard to predict...nonetheless, the days can be filled with laughter, adventures, and throwing fits as well. Isaac is really missing his friends. He understands that we are FAR away and that he probably won't see familiar faces anytime soon..he often asks if his friends misses him or is thinking of him.

Baby Gabe is sweetheart. He is sleeping longer from 7 to 1:30am and then wakes up around 5:30am. He started really smiling and engaging. We are having so much fun with him. He is already in 3 months clothes and due to be two months in two days. I can't believe how fast time has gone by...

Dan hasn't started work yet, so it has been nice to have him around with the kids...as for me, i went on my first run since delivery...boy, its everything flapping around! I'm excited to get back into working out..the nice about here is that everything is so close, i find myself walking everywhere, which is bad as well, because I am mainly walking to the bakery and coffee shop...

for some cultural differences...

water costs more than pop...if you ask for water at the restaurant, they charge you because you are getting mineral water

Speaking of water...everything here is carbonated...they love bubbles!

Germans thinks ice or cold beverages gives you stomach so everywhere you go you get your drink without ice..in fact, some don't even have ice machines.

McDonald here is more like a sit down with a coffee shop and Barista

Nothing OPENS ON SUNDAY! Including the grocery store!

We are in Germany

Well, the past few weeks has been quite exciting and busy in the Solverson household...after baby Gabe came, we packed up and moved to Germany for Dan's work. I don't think its even hitting us even now that we are in Germany and was on a one way ticket with no return. Here I am sitting at our hotel writing...I am still in awe that God has brought us here!
Here just to sum it all up....

Sept 22 we took off on Luthansana and went direct to Frankfurt...We left our condo three hours early, but the ordeal just began...first, we were at the wrong airline..even though it says "United" we had to beg some guy to help us with our 10 pieces of luggage to the end of the airport to the right airline...then, we were over weight unless we want to pay $150 for each bag...so Dan had to dig through all our bags and repack..meanwhile, Isaac and Jed were running thru the various lines as if they were at an amusement park...we were first to check in on our flight..but were the last to leave the counter! We literally barely got to the gate and it was time to board..sadly, we didn't people to say our goodbyes:( The plan ride was great..we had our own TV and tons of movies and even kids programs...the kids all slept...we were treated like kings and queens with wine, coffee, and tea left and right...

Sept 23..Frankfurt airport
we were picked up by Dan's boss and headed to the airforce base where we were staying at. The kids were tired and so was I...since I was the only one that didn't fall asleep on the 9 hour ride! Dan actually had to leave to get started to check in with work..so, the kids and I hung out at the Ramestein Inn on base and rested. The next few days were a bit hard with the jetlag. Kids were up at midnight wide awake and baby was in a completely different time zone...it took about three days when we finally got the time zone down..

First week in Landstudhl...we got a rental car...which we should of specified automatic..but ended up with stick shift Passat stationwagon. Dan was a bit rusty, but he never killed it on the Autobahn! hahaha...we pretty much took the week to look for potential rentals and finally found one above a Baptist church...its right across the street from a park, on a dead end, and a nursry school nearby..

Second week...we have culture classes this week and is hoping to start moving in..over the weekend, we took the kids to this park in the middle of K-town with live size dinos..its was awesome..for lunch, we had brautwurst and a bun and cake...I will try to post pictures soon...

Welcome Gabriel Joseph Zau-Ming Solverson

Gab was delivered via c-section on Aug. 29th at 10:09am weighing in at 7 lbs and 9 ounces. 20 1.2 inches. He is by far the smallest of all my babies,but taller than Jed. The c-section was an ordeal itself. When I checked in that morning, I was hoping for a nice uncomplicated delivery, but when the attending doctor came in and was told about my previous c-sections and history of scar tissues, he basically asked me if I wanted to get my tubes tied and warned me that the delivery can be very complicated going in to the same area and cutting through old scar tissues. They even took precaution of placing a second IV fearing of needing to intubate me. I'm not your typical freak out girl, it takes a lot to get me nervous. I was nervous. I hated the idea of being under and have no control and with every epidural that I've had I had a hard time with breathing because of the sedation to your lungs and diaphram. I even asked for some nerve pill but due to potential side effects on the baby, they said I couldn't have any until after the baby was born. I was given both a spinal and epidural in case the surgery took longer than expected. Dan came in while Maureen waiting outside.

During the surgery, I couldn't even talk to Dan because I had to make sure I don't freak out when I am feeling short of breath, I kept asking my CRNA my oxygen saturation and tell myself, I am OKAY. I asked Dan to refrain from talking to me so that I can focus on praying and singing "Jesus loves me" so I don't get anxious. Throughout the surgery, I can hear the attending saying "well, I guess we'll just have to work out way through all these scar tissue" It took them about 2 hours to complete the surgery. Once the baby was out, I felt my anxiety lifted and was finally able to talk to Dan and calm down. But, the surgery was far from over, they had some concern about my abd muscles being too spread apart and concern for future herniation. They had to consult general surgery for possible repair. Surgery was at another call so couldn't come, so here I am lying on the table hearing my third baby cry and couldn't even hold him or nurse him. Dan had to take him out of the OR and get him a bottle he was so hungry! Finally, the doctors were able to get everything "back" in place. I was really out of it the rest of the day. I felt so bad that I barely had enough strength to even hold my new born. That was when I just broke down. But, by the grace of God I was slowly getting better ( not as fast as I would like).

I am about 10 days out...my belly actually swelled up a bit after delivery, but things are finally calming down and I actually feel like I am better. Gab is a wonderful baby waking up about twice a night...really no complaints their. Our two older boys are loving being the older brothers...

in the midst of all, we are also packing for Germany in two weeks. The movers has been here for two days now, and the reality of moving overseas is beginning to come true for me. I am so excited for the new adventure!

Where did the summer go?

This is probably the longest and hardest summer for us. As we are about to embark on our journey to Germany, between Dan's officer training course to my work, the baby, and the kids we are literally all in three different states. Dan and I made a decision to send the kids home to Chicago for the summer. Aside from our schedules, we know that this summer maybe a while before they'll get to see their extended family. Its been almost 4 weeks since they have been there on their own. I miss them so much and can't wait till they get home soon! Isaac is becoming the big brother and Jed is becoming more talkative and even started talking in 2-3 word sentences. They are having fun with both sides of the family and the best is that they are getting to know their aunts, uncles, and baby Joshua.

Dan is doing officer basic training down in San Antonio. I just visited him with my last weekend of being able to fly. We were able to hang out even went to a water park and relived our good old days. I can't believe that we've been married for 6 years now and I still can't sleep without him. When I got there, I slept over 10 hours the first night, the first since he left.

As for me, I am on my final stretch. I have my c-section in 4 weeks. This baby is a squirmer. I'm at the point where I feel constant pelvic pressure and i know I am showing a lot lower than my other two because I'm not as short of breath as i am with the other two. Work was great, I had a great time working for the military as a contractor. I love my job, but all in all i'm ready for this summer to be over with and my family coming home and finally get our move to Germany going.

If you ever think of us...pray

for safe travel as the kids, Steve, and Dan travels home
safe delivery of baby Gabe
smooth transition of our move to Germany
that our condo can be rented out
God would prepare a fellowship for us there

Life....

Life has been busy but definitely fun with the kids these days..Jed is finally talking up a storm and voicing his likes and dislikes..and Isaac is finally embracing the joy of being an older brother. He suddenly grew up and such a great help in helping me get stuff for Jed or just playing with Jed. He is very good about sharing and always considerate of his brother. As for number 3, I am on my 29th week..I am feeling good other than tired by the end of the day. I still try to swim as much as I can. The baby is starting to kick quite a bit and I think I'm feeling more uncomfortable earlier than my other two. Sometimes, I can't believe we are on our third child, but like Isaac said "we are a happy family." Dan is great about helping out and being there for all of us...so, in the words of my friend, "I am spoiled":)

The following are some photos of my parents visiting and Heather and Mike in Seattle. It was great visiting and seeing familiar faces.

Graduations

Wow, its been awhile since we posted...life here is crazy busy! We celebrated Big Isaac's high school graduation and in four days celebrated Dan's residency graduation.I can't believe how fast time has passed. When we first got to Tacoma, Isaac was just graduating 8th grade and now 4 years later..we are having three kids and moving on to another chapter of our lives. I don't know if I felt the relief that he is now a staff or an attending, I'm just glad the "schooling: part of residency is over! Now, its going to be a busy summer with officer training, baby #3, and moving to Germany all within the next three months. We are excited for the move and want people to come visit!

Disneyland!

Honestly, we were a bit afraid taking a long vacation by ourselves without, but it turned out great and very relaxing. Disneyland was so fun watching the kids enjoy the "happiest place on earth" haha. I think Dan and I have more fun watching Isaac and Jeds expression than anything else and to be able to sharing that excitement with them was priceless!

School photos

Are my boys growing up?

So, 24 hours after we find out we are having another baby boy...and we shared with our two boys, Isaac was some-what excited, but said, "but we already have a Jed." and Jed didn't even listen. Today, it seemed like they suddenly grew up overnight.

This morning Dan was gone early taking his boards..and I had the fun with taking both boys to swim class. Isaac's was at 9 and Jed was at 11 therefore, I was at the Y all day long!

At breakfast, Jed, the I-want-to-do-everything-myself, fed himself his cereal with milk and then proceeded with apple sauce while I cleaned up the kitchen a bit. This is one of the few times that Jed is using a spoon and really feeding himself. I was so excited I walked over to find him with applesauce all over his head telling me he is all done. I literally had to rinse him off in the bathtub and then took him to the Y with bits of applesauce in his hair, but through it all, he was very proud of himself...

Isaac is my big boy now..After his swim class usually we go home and Dan would take Jed, but since I'm on my own today, I gave him the option of watching Jed swim or go to the nursery. He decided he wanted to watch Jed swim and understood that he'll have to sit by the pool and watch Jed and I in the pool. And for those 30 min, Isaac really behaved, he didn't cry, didn't whine, he just sat there waved at us and waited. While I was showering and get Jed cleaned up, he got me the soap and towel and was the biggest helper. He even knew to go to the drying machine to dry our swim suites. I couldn't believe it. He is going to be a great help with # 3!

Easter

We spend Easter morning going through Easter basket and reading the book about Easter and Jesus' resurrection. After church we headed over to the Weissman's house for brunch. Last year, Joy and I celebrated as solo parents with Steve as Chris was deployed and Dan was gone on conference. I had a baby and Isaac, and she had Hannah. This year, we have everyone there and an new addition, Grace. It was great seeing them. The kids had an indoor egg hunt as the northwest was blessed with rain showers!

#3 BOY!

This is the twenty weeks ultrasound everyone (including me) has been waiting for. I am proud to say that I will be a mother of 3 boys. Baby is measuring right on target about 10 oz. Honestly, part of me was hoping for a girl, even on my way to my ultrasound, I kept thinking to myself what could it be. As I disappointed? Honestly, No. I thought I was going to be, but I am not. I talked my friend Selin right before the ultrasound, the truth is, kids are God's miracle and I'll take all the blessing He is bestowing on us. It was neat to see the baby and hear the heart beat. You would think after two kids these thing would get boring, but each time I hear them or see them on ultrasound, I get so excited and can't wait to hold those tiny hands and body and cuddle. Now the hard part is to think of boys names...

I am posting some ultrasound pictures..one with him having his hand on his chin, the other is with him proclaiming himself and letting everyone know he is a boy, and lastly is his profile and I think he looks like Jed! Then there is me at 20 weeks. I actually feel pretty good other than the occasional heartburn.

19 weeks and counting

I am at 19 weeks and finally feeling great. The nausea and vomiting has finally subsided, although I still get occasional vomiting session where Isaac would stand by my side "helping me" while I puke. I'm starting to feel the baby a little bit more...I can wait till I can feel those kicks and hiccups. This time around I am finding myself having a harder time sleeping and heart burn. I am already waking up twice a night to go pee and can't find a position comfortable enough to sleep in. As for heart burn, anything I eat I pay for it...it doesn't matter what kind it is. I wish I had a craving so I can eat and feel that satisfaction..oh, do I love food! I started exercising again, which really helps me feel so much better! I wish I could run, but every time I do, I get so winded, I guess we'll just put that off till after the baby comes...

I will need to get some preggo pictures, but with #3 coming along, I've been dying to cut my hair and I love it! I am more comfortable with two kids and definitely looking forward to three. I know people are asking, do you want a girl? honestly? I don't know. I can't imagine having a girl because I have two boys. And even if I do have three boys, I would imagine I would just yell louder than before:) We'll find out soon...

We for us its looking like we may be going to Germany, but no official word yet. I'm thankful for the experiences to come. I had a hard time for awhile of not knowing and honestly we still don't know where we are going yet, but I'm excited for what's to come. The cool thing about it all is that I have my family to share with as cheesy as it sounds. Being away from home has really made our family stronger..anyways, before I cheese myself out...laters

Isaac and Jed

Isaac and Jed are growing up so fast, I can't catch up sometimes. Isaac is really talking and reasoning with us more and more. Isaac really loves animals and reading. oh, and singing in the car is a must no matter where we go. Jed just started talking probably about a month ago. When Isaac was his age, he was already singing. Jed is more developed at this age with his motor skills. He is quite but deadly. Whenever we turn around, we find him either climbed up on our dining room table or hiding on the second shelf of the toy chest. He loves dancing to music, but more importantly run after Isaac and copying whatever he is doing. This kid also have a love for sweets, where Isaac prefers salty foods. Its amazing watching them two learning to play together and learning to love one another.

Wedding

Our most recent wedding in awhile. It's kinda nice to be dressed up and go out on a night of fun and catching up with friends. Tram came in from DC and Nimae came in with her pregnant belly. Isaac and Jed dominated the dance floor all night long. Jed danced so hard he had one of the little girls ended up with a bloody nose. Isaac danced so hard, he riped his pants with all of his crouch showing. It was a great time!

Two little soccer players?

Ski trip to Whistler

We are sort of counting down the days before we have to leave here...so every opportunity we get we like to go back to places we'll miss. One of them being Whistler BC. Each time that I've been there, i've been pregnant, but this time, the run wasn't too bad, because I had Steve with me. We took it easy and enjoyed the sights. The best part of going on the gonedela between Blackcomb and Whistler. The kids enjoyed swimming and playing in the snow. We wanted to sent Isaac to ski school, unfortunately, he was too scared to even put his winter boots on!

Baby # 3 Here we go again:)

We are so excited for baby #3 to join the solv clan. My due date is in early Sept. This pregnancy has been very interesting as in I am experiencing true morning sickness and frequent throwing ups. I am at the point of not knowing what to eat or what not to eat, anything could trigger it. I would literally sit down relaxing after dinner and suddenly have an intense urge to vomit and there I go. I am about 10 weeks along. Fatigue is the recurring theme, every night I would snuggle up on the couch with a blanket, but overall, I am feeling well. I know, everyone is thinking maybe this would be a girl. Honestly, we pray that this baby is healthy and happy. God willing children are such gifts from God.

Dan's Finally Home

After a long two weeks, Dan finally came home from Honduras. He had a great time working with the people and able to help make a difference in their lives. I'll let him tell whenever he feels like blogging...but here are some photos...

As for me, we survived. The final draw was the sunday that my father-in-law was suppose to come in and help out..that morning, I noticed Jed was having some difficulty breathing from 4 am on, everything just seemed labored. He didn't cry just appeared to have a hard time getting his breath. I call Aunt Patty and she was here within 5 min. I was off to the ER with Jed while she took care of Isaac and picked up Steve. Thank God there was no one in the ER, Jed was seen right away and given steriods and breathing treatments. It took him awahile t finally breathing better for awhile we all thought he was going to have to stay overnight for observation, he is such a sweet baby. Most of the time, he just slept in my arms as we waited for the medications to kick in. Seeing Steven when we finally got home was a relief. That week sure went by a lot faster and the kids seem to perk up more. When Dan came home, Isaac literally got so excited he couldn't get any of his words out and Jed just sat on his lap in awe. It was sweet and great to have him home...

Where is daddy?

I love my husband of 5 years dearly...he is currently on a work mission trip to Honduras for the next two weeks. I am almost amazed at how hard it is for me when he is gone. I feel like it gets harder (not easier) the longer you have been married. I think I started crying even before he left...the good thing is I have been able to talk to him daily and have great family and friends around to help me with food and kids...for that, I am so grateful! and Grandpa Steve is coming to the rescue.:) It has been going okay so far. The kids are in a funk, but they are adjusting and I'm doing better knowing that Dan is okay and having a good time. I just miss him so much.

What I am amazed is that the kids are just as close to him. Isaac ask about him constantly and finally he said, "daddy is going to fly home and have lunch with us" or "I'm going to sing my song when daddy comes home from work and he's not going to work" at one point he even told me"mom, don't cry, daddy will come home soon." Isaac is even having a hard time sleeping...I know it's because he knows that Dan is not around.

As for Jed, we come home and he is searching and yelling for "Da" When Dan finally talked to him on the phone the other day, he literally got this excitement on his face, he was reaching for the phone and waving. When I had to take the phone away, he got so upset, he threw a fit for about half an hour.

Holidays and then some...

I can't believe the new year has come and is already almost the end of January. Where did the time go? our time in HI felt brief..we had a great chilling out with the Chings and the Weissmans..oh, and running the Honolulu Marathon. It was so fun for me even though I wasn't that fast, I enjoyed watching people run and pushing myself to keep going...I would definitely do it again!

After Hawaii, we basically came back to a snow storm in the NW. Nothing like being a prisioner of your own home! I was literally stuck and couldn't even move my car out of the parking spot because it was so icy. It really frustrated me that people don't salt or invest money in snow plows! Needless to say, I was glad the snow finally melted, but I honestly haven't seen 5 inches of snow at one time since our time in Chicago/Michigan. Dan was driving home with people crashing left and right.

Our holidays were filled with family...my in-laws came in from Chicago and brought tons of gifts for us and the kids..I even felt like a little kids opening the gifts. It was different this year in that Isaac was so much more aware of what presents means and loved every minute of it.

Jed has turned into a monkey. He love climbing on chairs and tables. I often find him looking proud standing in our dining room table--don't worry, he is well supervised!

We started out the new year at Vien Dong, a pho joint in Tacoma on new years eve with steve and mo and the Charlie/Patty clan. It was so much fun just hanging out and eating good food..who said you need a reservation at a nice restaruant on new years eve...I may just have to do that more often! We then took a two day trip to Vancouver for some shopping and food. It was a great way to start out the new year!

Honolulu Marathon

Gingerbread house

Making gingerbread house with Enya. Dad got into it more than Isaac and Jed.

Isaac's 3rd birthday

Cancun

Now to more fun things, we were in Cancun for 6 days with my side of the family and had a great time eating, swiming, lounging, and doing it all over again. Other than Dan's accident, we had a great time catching up and just doing nothing. Isaac had a great time hanging out in the pool for hours just self-entertaining! Jed, the daredevil, really had not fear and jumped right in with Isaac in the pool!

Dan's Surgery

This is a picture of Dan's eye after the initial injury---if you were me, you would think it's just a blackeye!

as some of you might of know, Dan went into surgery yesterday for repair of his facial fracture...I haven't had a chance to catch people up, but here is the story.

We were on a family vacation with my side in Cancun, Mexico last week. Second day into the vacation, Dan was playing water polo and within 5 minutes into the game he ran out and told me someone had hit him in the eye with an elbow. He got really concerned because he couldn't really see out of that right eye very well. I checked it out and to me it was just a black eye coming to form. Dan was more concerned for fractures and permanent damage of double vision. I kept telling him he is just paranoid because he knows too much being an eye surgeon. I think I talked him out of it until the descend on the way him. Dan started having more double vision and eye pain. He went into work and got a CT scan and had shown that he had fractured two parts in the eye bone that houses the eyeball. Monday, his boss looked at his scan and said he needed repaired.

Tuesday- we went in around 10 in the morning and Maureen had flown out the night before to help me with the kids. Dan was in surgery by 1pm for an hour and a half. The whole surgery was done really well. The scary part is that the fracture had pushed his bone further back closer to his brain and some of the fractures were shattered. They had to go in and put in a plate to stabilize the fractures. Dan is now home and doing well. He has a black eye and some bleeding, but overall he is okay. Please continue to pray for his recovery. It was quite a scare, but God is faithful for giving Dan the wisdom to know that something is wrong and providing great care to get the surgery done. Dan is probably feel almost back to normal as in that he is not sleeping half of the day or feeling just spent. Mo left this morning, she was a great help for me and helping out with the kids.

Jed's Surgery

Jed has had issues with his tear ducts since he was born..basically, they don't drain and whenever he get sick, his eyes are just full of greenish discharge and crap...after talking with Dan, we both decided that it would be best to go ahead and operate now rather than later. This morning was surgery day. I had a hard time sleeping last night..something about knowing that your son is going to be intubated even for the smallest procedure or even with the best doctor.

Our morning started at 5:30am with Dan taking Isaac to daycare. Isaac surprisingly was already up and was ready for school. Then I had to wake up Jed and went down to surgical check-in. There is one thing cool about being a doctor's wife, son..boy, did we get the royal treatment. Dan's boss came out, his co-worker went over the surgery with me again (no, I am not a snotty doctors wife). It was nice to know that Jed was in good hands. The surgery was literally 40 minutes from the time he was taken from my arms to me seeing him waking up. He was one mad boy when he got up. He must of thrashed around for at least 10 min. before the nurse came over and gave him some juice. Dan then came by with his case and was able to see Jed post-op. I am very thankful that God was present throughout the procedure. Jed is now happy, well-fed, and playful as if his day wasn't full already. Here is the picture after he woke up from his nap--notice that gash on his face, he gave that to himself when the oxygen mask was still on him, he freaked out.

Its still sunny!

Its at the end of October here in the supposed cold and rainy northwest. Yet, we had at least a full week of sunshine and warm weather to the 60s! This weekend, Dan dropped me off in Gig Harbor, just at the end of the Narrows bridge and I ran home from there as part of my training for the marathon. For the first couple miles, I felt like I was a runner---run Jo, run..but by like the 9th mile I was thinking of what I was going to gorge on for lunch. Unfortunately, my stomach didn't agree with my brain, I had to stop eating because I ate too fast!

Kiddie update...Jed is officially walking. He is walking all over the place today. You can tell the little man is just so much happier being free.

On another note...It seems like everyone around me is pregnant. Within my blog stalk, I know at least 7 people that are pregnant! The babies are coming! Congrats ladies!

Our cute kids

Portland AGAIN

Yes, we love Portland, OR. Since we found this cool town, we've been back three times since July. This time we went with our friends, Kristin, Michael, and Enya. They use to live there..so it was nice to go to the local joint and hang out. We went to this little pub that had a children's play area, it was so nice to let the kids play and allow us to catch up. Jed had the most fun when we went swimming at our hotel. He kept putting his face in the water without any fear. Isaac had a lot of fun at the Portland Zoo. It was like walking through a forest.

Its been awhile....

I can't believe we haven't even blogged for almost a month now...well, time sure has gone and pass...We celebrated Jed's birthday at least three times, once with our small get together, one on his actual birthday (Dan, Isaac, and I ate the cake), and again in Chicago with the Solve's as Grandma and Grandpa got some serious cupcakes. At one year
Jed has:
6 teeth
21# 4 oz
29.5 inches (moved him up to closer to 50th%)
bedtime from 7pm to about 5 am with an 8 oz bottle and then will go back to bed till 7am
enjoys feeding himself
can walk freely about 5 steps (this just happened this week)
hate stuff that are weird in texture
oh, he likes to grab whatever Isaac's got..
Yesterday, I had to leave work because Jed had a low grade fever..as we were home together just the two of us, he was cuddling and smiling..we went grocery shopping, he was delight. I sometimes feel back that I don't have enough of me to go around my kids, I pray and hope that in the midst of busy life..that our kids will still feel loved and treasured.

Isaac is one happy, energetic boy..sometimes I think he is misunderstood for being happy and excited..instead people may view him as hyper or misbehaving, he is a toddler!. He is such a sweet boy and always looking out for others. We were at the mall the other day and Dan had accidentally ran the stroller into my leg. I said "ouch" and moved on, but Isaac ran up to me and said "mom, let me look at it" he examined me and lifted up my foot and make sure it was all okay and then looked up at Dan and goes "dan, you need to say sorry."

Two weekends ago, we took a short trip home for "brother from another mother's" wedding. Lester and Jen Pineda got married in their romantic backyard 10/4th. It was one short weekend, I"m glad we got to see my parents, hang out at my sister and brother in laws pad in Chicago and chill with the Solve's. Kat was so great, she treated me to high tea at the Ritz in Chicago for my 30th birthday..it was yummy!

So, what else is going on? It is official...Dan and I are running the Honolulu Marathon for my girlfriend, Joy, who has rheumatoid arthritis. She is a mom, teacher, and a great friend. We are running with her husband, Chris this Dec. 14, 2008. We are raising fund for the arthritis foundation, please pray that my legs don't fall of..and if you would like to donate for this cause...http://2008jointsinmotionchicago.kintera.org/disney/

We had a small get together for Jed's b-day! But as you can see the food, half of it was made by my friend Mimi and her sister Kyoung Hee. Thanks ladies!

Lester & Jen Wedding

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwi11X684cg

Hello!

We are still here! I feel like this past month has just gone by in a flash! We celebrated Dan's 30th birthday with the solv's and our friends. He should feel super special while the kids really cared about the balloons and cake.

Jed is inching to 1 year old! I can't believe it! I am still only half way done with his baby book@ He is just a sweet child. Loves and adores his brother...they love wrestling and playing rough. I was cleaning their room one day and those two chased each other crawling back and forth. Jed was laughing so hard I had to tell Isaac to give him a break so he can breath! Jed now has 6 teeth and is one stubborn child. When he doesn't want something, there is NOTHING you can do to make him, especially with eating. When he is done and give you the sign, his lips are sealed tight! I wish he would cuddle a bit more, he doesn't like to be still and is constantly on the move otherwise, I would find him pulling down on my pots of eating my phonebook.

Isaac on the other hand is going through some potty training. I send him home with my mom and she basically had him trained!. He is doing okay since we've been home not close to 100%, but now he can pee in the toilet standing up and is wearing a pull-up. Probably about 50% wet and 50% going to the pot. He still loves his story time and after pre-bedtime chats. The other day, I had a rough day with him and was finding myself yelling more than usual. At our nightly talks, I apologize and told him that his behavior for not listening makes Mommy sad. I knew he understood because he told dan what we talked about when dan came down. At the end of Isaac telling dan about our conversation he goes, "mommy is a good mommy." That really warmed my heart, because I knew he understood.

So what have we been up to? I'm putting up some of our half marathon photos and our trip to DC without kids. I had a hard time. I missed them a lot, but Dan and I also had a great time reconnecting and hanging out. I think he was kinds of sick of me going "I wonder what the kids are doing?" I got to visit my girlfriend, Ditty...my oldest as in she is one of the few people who knows me the longest since Jr. high. My parent and sister, brother-in-law visited. It was a great time hanging out and chilling. I would trust my sister with my kids any day!

Ahh

"Stop it Jed"

"Stop it, Jed!" is a common phrase from Isaac to his dear brother. Jed has been trying to be a part of everything Isaac is doing ever since he started crawling and pulling himself up. Sometimes he pulls on him so hard, Isaac's pants end up coming down. The other day, Jed's teacher at daycare asked me if Jed wrestles at home. I was like, yeah, being the little guy, he's usually the one that gets "beat up" at home. So, Miss Tiffany tells me that, Jed was playing with one of the other infants when he decided to jump on the poor girl and start pushing his hand on her face and wrestling with her. Hilarious, but I guess not so funny for the baby girl. They now call him the "WWF baby" at daycare.

Isaac is talking a ton, not the best listener though, I am going through some similar stuff as Sally. Now, he has freedom of speech, he speaks up a lot more and disagrees. But overall, he is a pretty good kid. He loves being my helper around the house and with Jed. Our favorite say before we leave the house is--I say "ready to go?" Isaac replies "rock n' roll." He is so sweet and dear to my heart.

Happy 5 Year Anniversary!

Dan and I celebrated our five year anniversary with first running the half marathon and then in the afternoon, we dropped our kids off at Rob and Mimi's and headed up to to the Seattle Grand Hyatt for a night out. When we got to our room, we saw this. It was a huge gift basket delivered by Mimi. She had a made a special trip to seattle the day prior just to set it up. We were so surprised and excited, it really made us feel so blessed to have great friends! We went around town and went back to the hotel and watched a movie. The funny part was even though we were kidless--Dan still woke up in the middle of the night thinking he heard Jed crying and I just really missed them. We woke up or I should say I woke up bright and early and ordered fancy room service before we went out for some more retail therapy. It was a great weekend. I am truly blessed! Thanks Rob and Mimi!

Narrows Bridge Half

Dan and I ran the Narrows Bridge half-marathon on 8/2. Exactly 5 years earlier, we were getting married. Dan pointed out an interesting point, the morning of our wedding, I drove out to McDonalds with my girlfrieds for my last bachelorette breakfast. On the day of the half marathon, I got up super early and yup, ran out for an other Mcdonalds run...sure was yummy! If you are interesting in reading my half-marathon journey feel free to read on...

So, we started on the Gig Harbor side, the anticipation was killing me a bit. I couldn't decide if I wanted to Dan to run with me or not, but I figured, it would be nice for me to have him around, because he is good at pushing me. But, I am an oxygen hog so I asked him not to talk but run next to me. The first couple of miles was fairly easy, running over the Narrows bridge was an experience that I will never forget. I drive over it all the time, but to run the mile stretch was an awesome view of the sound and the mountains. I was a bit worried because during training, my knees has been killing me, thanks to the new shoes, I have no knee pain what so ever. Going from Route 16 to the off ramp was the killer, I walked a little bit, but was able to pick right back up. By 4.5 miles, I got some water and gel, and I wish people would tell me to eat the gel first and than drink water because I had this nasty vanilla paste in my mouth! We ran through Cheney Stadium and paralleled Route 16 for awhile. The cool part was that this one guy who was running a bit ahead found out it was our anniversary during on the first water station. For rest of the way, we were greeted with "Happy Anniversary" at every water station from then on. It was a sweet surprise and by then, Dan wouldn't dare to leave me fearing if he showed up at a water station by himself, people would think he is a jerk for ditching me, hahaha!

The final stretch was hard even though I've ran 4 miles all the time, but my thighs were getting sore and my music was getting boring. So Dan and I switched IPODs and that helped a bit, by the time I saw the finish line, I knew I could finish it. No, dan and I did not hold hands, but we were able to finish together.

533 DANIEL 29 M M2529 02:37:46 02:37:12
534 JUI-HAN 30 F F3034 02:37:46 02:37:12

I still can't believe we got the same time, right down to the tenth of a second.

Poor Dan, he could of ran much faster, but I don't think I could of done it without him...pictures to come...

Life is no longer the same....

In the past two weeks, I've turned the big 30 and celebrated Dan and I's 5 year anniversary. But the interesting part is that I don't feel so different and I don't feel particular old either. I feel like even more an adult. I was reading one of my friend, Shandis's blog when she turned 30, she was so right that in the 20s it was a time to find oneself and 30s is time for others. I totally agree. I don't think I know who I am or still struggling to find my role in this world. Here I am at 30 a wife, mother, with a career and blah blah. I have may roles God calls me to be, and I am excited to embark the next 30 years with hopefully a different point of view. I would like to focus on others: helping my kids find themselves and discover this large, but small world God has created, or embark on the mission field we've been called to be, be that supportive partner to further my husbands passion-eyes, to be that supportive friend when she/he needs a hand, to be that daughter called to serve, I guess I'm more excited than anything. There are many things I want to accomplish an do, but I can truly say, I am happy and I love my life. I don't life a picture perfect life, but I was squeezing my brains out trying to help Dan out with a birthday present...and honestly, I have been blessed with a very awesome husband who knows my needs and wants and selflessly supports me in my dreams and kids who loves me no matter now I imperfect I am.


Here is Dan taking my out on my birthday dinner date at Stanley's and Seaforts.




Our family on our short Mt. Rainer climb. We went with our friends, Rob and Mimi, whose daughter, Hana is Isaac's best friend. We made it to snow, but the same part is we can still see the parking lot...

I vs J

Grandma and Grandpa visit

Which included a weekend to Portland via Amtrak.

Amigos

Hanging with the girls, again. We're confident that the manly snake-vulture tatoo offsets the glam-froo-froo shoes.