Family Christmas Pictures

This is the first year for us to have professional pictures taken of the whole family. Our friend, Mrs. Stephanie referred us to her photographer friend, Mrs. Joann. She was kind enough to put up with us for about an hour and a half. She had a good eye and even better editing software. Just kidding. Unfortunately for Mya, her tongue couldn't be photoshopped back into her mouth that day.

The Big Guy

We took Mya to meet Santa for the first time, and she reacted in the same fashion as when any man gets too close- she screamed and cried (Mom and Dad are hoping that continues for the next 20+ years). Lucky for him, I'm over my previous fear of him. Check out my visits with him when I was one- and two-years old. I can't quite put my finger on it, but I think Santa looks a lot different this year. I guess we all age differently.

Jesus' Birthday Party

My last day of school was a celebration of Jesus' birth (i.e., Christmas). Mya and my mom came to chapel with me and watched me do our pledges and sing a few songs. We also watched the transitional kindergartners perform the story of baby Jesus. They did a great job, but I'm not sure why my own birthday isn't transformed into a play since it is such a significant event.

Afterwards, the parents came to our classroom for a party and book exchange. If you can't find me in the picture, I'm the tallest boy in the class. Ok, not really (thanks mostly to my mom and her Asian genes). But, what I lack in height, I make up for in temper, I mean, talent.

Crazy Hair Day

Each month at school we have a themed spirit day when we wear our school shirt. In December it was "Crazy Hair Day." Many kids come with their hair spray painted and out of control (Mya will have an easy time with her hair when she starts attending school). My mom was tempted to just take me without combing my hair in the morning since it's usually a mess, but I let her put tons of product in it. I did promise not to stand too closely to any candles or open flames (please note that I am standing underneath Scout, our Elf on the Shelf).

I am now off for two weeks for Christmas (yes we can actually call it Christmas at our school). Surprisingly, Mom is thankful for this break. She says that it's because she doesn't have to get ready and rush out the door in the mornings (plus Mya gets to take her naps on time). I think that it's because she misses me those days that I'm expanding my spiritual and academic experiences. I do notice that she prays a lot more and asks for patience when I'm home. I guess patience is an synonym for gratitude.

Snow Day

We had our first snow of the season (and probably our last). The last time that happened here (without the snow melting as soon as it hit the ground) was in early 2008, and I don't remember much of it. So, as soon as Mommy told me to look out the back door that morning, I wanted to rush out there. I had to wait for Daddy to get up and take me since that sister of mine keeps the maternal figure in the house. We did our best with the little snow that we had, but we successfully made my first Frosty (you can see him hiding behind me).

Thanksgiving Feasts

So, we had what was called the Finger Food Feast at school to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. We prepared some songs, crafts, and a "costume" for a month so that we can present everything to our loved ones. My family, including Nona and Papa, came to see me and marvel in my unbelievable talents. I wore my Indian, excuse me, Native American vest and headgear. I walked with my class into the auditorium onto the assigned risers ready to sing my songs. I saw Mommy in front of the stage with her camera. I lost it. I threw off my "hat" and wanted to go down there and see her. I'm not sure how I will ever make it through my valedictorian speech. In any case, I did eventually relax and have fun eating lunch with the fam afterwards.


We had a quiet Thanksgiving. We were supposed to spend it with Lola and Papo this year, but they were on another one of their international excursions. We went to Nona and Papa's house, and my cousins were spending it with their "other" families so I was the only making all the noise (Mya's baby sounds don't really count). I guess Papa felt sorry for me and took me to the park before dinner (or maybe he just decided to give in after badgering him with requests). Mommy got a bit lazy this year and didn't take many pictures. She should have had the camera out when I actually ate all of my turkey (the box of Oreos she placed on the shelf as an incentive did help a bit).

Our Baby Doll

Our little girl is growing up WAY too fast! Mya has four teeth (and another on the way), is starting to cruise, and trying to stand without support. The old folk's backs are hurting from picking her up and constantly trying to redirect her; I find taking my toys out of her mouth to be a bit tiresome as well. However, I do enjoy how she absolutely LOVES me and tries to imitate whatever I do. Finally an audience giving me their undivided attention!