A Choi Story

I'm Sweet

2011-03-09T12:53:00.000-08:00

The other day as I came downstairs, I was paid one of the highest and most unusual comments I have heard to date... it went something like this.

"Daddy. My daddy is so sweet! My daddy is sweeter than pineapple!"

Clever Little One

2011-02-28T11:06:00.000-08:00

Don't remember the exact location, but the other day we were heading home from a family outing when Elsie noticed some geese on the side of the road. Not wanting to miss a teachable moment, I asked her, "Hey Elsie, you know what a bunch of cows together is called?"

"Yup - a herd of cows."

"That's Right!... So do you know what they call a bunch of geese together?"

"I don't know..."

"It's called a gaggle.. isn't that funny? A gaggle of geese!"

At this point, she goes on to quiz me on various species in the animal kingdom to see if I knew the correct plural term was.... (which I didn't fare so well with).... then the wheels started turning when she asks me,

"What do they call a bunch of cars together?"

"I'm not sure Elsie... what do they call a bunch of cars together?"

"Traffic."

Tricky little monkey.

She's 4

2011-01-24T09:38:00.000-08:00

Today, our little girl turns 4. Words can't describe how much we love her. She has been a continual blessing in so many ways.

Dana shared with me something that continues to put a smile on my face.

On one occasion before sitting down to a meal, Elsie decided that she would like to pray and give thanks herself. She said a little prayer and started eating. Dana decided to pursue her a bit in the moment and this is how it went (roughly).

Dana: Hey Elsie, why do you pray to God?
*thinking*
Elsie: Because I love him! I am his child and he loves me, and mommy, and daddy, and Elias.

Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. - 1 Timothy 4:12

Tis the Season

2010-12-13T13:52:00.000-08:00

A couple of pics I snapped for fun.

Modified Elsie-ism

2010-11-30T10:05:00.000-08:00

Elsie and I were going to head over to Halmuni's place for a little playtime. I got Elsie all bundled up and prepared to head out into the elements. When we got to Halmuni's place, I couldn't find a parking space really close so we had to walk (read: I had to walk while carrying Elsie). By the time we got to the front door, I was pretty chilled and Elsie was feeling it too.

Note: It was just about a year ago that Elsie exclaimed "my teeth are wobbly!", but a year has gone by and she has gained greater insight into exactly what was happening to her body.

She snuggled into my shoulder and whispered, "daddy, my teeth are going up and down, up and down, and up and down."

Just telling it like it is I suppose.

Halloween Prequel

2010-11-18T14:03:00.000-08:00

Sooooo... this was stuff that happened before Halloween, so things are a little out of order. This was the time leading up to Halloween where we went to a farm a little North of Seattle to get a pumpkin.

Playing on the hay

A room filled with corn

Picking the right pumpkin

Carving the pumpkin

Scary pig pumpkin

Summertime in Chelan

2010-11-10T13:40:00.000-08:00

As you can guess from the title - this is a little late, but I'll tell you what, you can have your money back.

Breakfast on the deck

Way to early and way too happy

Heading out to the apple/peach orchards

Picking fresh apples!

Fresh apples

Taking a break for a picture

The boy helping

Smelling the flowers

Playing at the beach

Tranquil view of Lake Chelan from our room

All in all it was a great time to just get away and relax.

Halloween Part 2

2010-11-08T12:30:00.000-08:00

The little dictator and his minion.

Bumblebee and her BFF the cowgirl.

Better to give than receive

2010-11-08T12:25:00.000-08:00

So last night was Halloween (pictures to follow). We were invited by some neighbors to have some dinner then take the kids trick-or-treating. Everything went without any major drama or exceptional note, but the best part of the evening came after we were done making the rounds through the neighborhood.

As we returned home, Dana took Elias up to get ready for bed (which he was NOT thrilled about - so much going on!) and Elsie and I sorted through her loot. She got to pick one item and have it before bed. Just as she started to get 1 mouthful in to a box of Nerds the doorbell rang. Trick-or-treaters!

Much to my surprise, instead of running away or screaming in terror, she ran to the door to hand out candy! She was SO into it!

Elsie grabbed the bowl and started doling out candy to everybody that came by, and when the traffic would die down a bit, she would actually start calling out generically to anyone within earshot....

"Helllooooooo! Helllloooooo! Does anybody want some candy! We have candy! Happy Halloween, we have candy!"

On the times that I actually convinced her to close the door, she would stand at the window and watch for movement outside. When she suspected that someone was within earshot, she would swing open the door and start yelling.

It was so good to see a heart of giving come out and I can only pray that it continues.

That's the Job for Me!

2010-10-09T22:15:00.000-07:00

Like most kids, one of Elsie's favorite things is to play make-believe. On this particular evening she, once again, caught me totally off guard to where I had to stop to collect myself before continuing.

After we played a round of, "let's visit daddy at work," She set up a new scene.

Elsie: ok daddy, now I'M at work and you're coming to visit.
Me: ok
I pretend to get in my car, drive to her work, knock on the door AND ring the doorbell (maybe redundant, but apparently a critical detail not to be modified or ad-libbed)
Elsie: hi! Come in
Elsie gives me a warm greeting with a hug and a kiss
Me: so nice to see you Elsie! Where is it you work again?
Elsie: Mars Hill (where I work)
Me: oh, I see.... and what is it you do there?
Long pause
Elsie: I give hugs.
End scene

Melted Heart...

2010-09-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

Here is a moment that was simply priceless.

To set the scene, Elsie wanted to call me at work when she got up one morning. Since I wasn't at my desk, she left me this message.... I added some pictures and subtitles.

Elsie's Message from Fred Choi on Vimeo.

More Elsie-isms

2010-09-09T15:00:00.000-07:00

Really quick - here are two of my favorite Elsie-isms.... mostly because they're just so cute.

Hurty - (v) something that is going to inflict pain on Elsie. If you take off my bandaid it's going to hurty!
Mines - (pro) used to indicate possession. That is yours and this is mines. (this actually makes a lot of sense).

Come Again?

2010-08-06T09:09:00.000-07:00

Seeing as how there was an entire TV show dedicated to the funny and interesting things that kids say, you'd think that each parent could record dozens, if not hundreds of funny phrases being thrown around by their kids, but usually the moment passes and the moment that brought great laughter is completely forgotten.

Which brings me to this post. On one particular night, the same as so many others, Dana is heading upstairs with Elias around bedtime, and it's also time for Elsie to head up to get ready for bed too. I say to Elsie, "hey honey, it's about time to start heading upstairs to get ready for bed... Elias is heading to bed, and you should too."

What do you think a 'typical' response would be? "No," "yes," "I don't want to go to bed," etc....

What do I get as a response?

"Daddy, I'm not a fan of upstairs."

Her tactic worked as it took me at least 15 or so minutes to regain my composure and stop laughing.

Well played little one, well played.

It's Already Been a Year

2010-08-05T15:36:00.000-07:00

One year. A year filled with wonderful moments... the pictures to follow are actually from three different events. The first one was at Halmuni's place - pretty low key as we were all recovering from the stomach bug (which we would then give to Halmuni). Then we had a party at our place... which can probably be traced to at least 2 more cases of the stomach bug. Then we had an impromptu photo session with the kids to take pictures in their han-boks before they got old enough to get their driver's licenses.

Big boy

Posing for the camera (not really)

Opening presents!

Getting a little help from sister

Sugary goodness

Cupcakes by mom

Focus

You're supposed to eat these?

Squishy fun

Getting dressed by Halmuni

Sitting still for a moment

Elias and Dana

Posing with Halmuni

Remember these days

Loving siblings (so far)

aaaaand, we're done.

A smile for the road

Elias - we love you. You are a great blessing from God and we are thankful for every day we have with you.

.... But Wait! There's More!

2010-07-03T08:16:00.000-07:00

Once again, this post will contain no pictures.

No pictures of the Norovirus filled drive. No pictures of the multiple roadside stops to "yell at the grass."

Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. - 2 Corinthians 12:8-10

As we embarked on the first leg of our 12 hour adventure back home from Canada, we should have known something was slightly amiss when Elsie started complaining of a stomach ache at breakfast. We just shrugged it off as a result of waiting too long to get her breakfast. We thought we had escaped relatively unscathed with only one family member (Elias) getting sick despite all of us being potentially exposed to the virus.... little did we know.

About 2 hours later as we sat in the little town of Radium Hotsprings, BC, Elsie's tummy-ache blossomed into a full-blown stomach-flu, which stretched it's infected tendrils to Dana, and ultimately to me as well.

What should have been another 4.5 hours to a condo on Schweitzer mountain, ID took closer to 6 as we had to make multiple roadside stops along the way.

Once we made it to Schweitzer, we were able to check into our place and quarantine ourselves away from any additional human contact, and by the next day were well enough to make a mad dash home (7 hours).

Amazingly enough, throughout all of this there were countless blessings.

We were able to fully enjoy our time in Canada. Had we gotten sick there, we would have been holed up and unable to take advantage of the beautiful surrounding that we were there to enjoy.
As I was the last one to fall prey to the virus, I was actually able to safely drive to ID and get checked in before completely collapsing.
The place we stayed at in ID was beautiful, but more importantly - deserted. We had the whole place to ourselves. Nice and peaceful.
Being sick on the road isn't fun, but at the same time, with an illness like this, it was actually a blessing to not be in our place where the risk of re-infection could be high.
The condo had a washer and dryer in the unit to actively disinfect clothing, blankies, and stuffed thingys.

The best part of the whole experience came as Dana and I talked about finding joy in and through this or if it was even possible. On the outside, it seems like a situation where we just need to endure and that joy would be found in the the deliverance from it, but we found that not necessarily to be the case. There was great joy to be found in the midst of it.

Even through the repeated trips to the bathroom, no sleep, pulled stomach muscles from retching, dizzyness, and headaches, we were able to find joy in Jesus Christ. Not only did he endure far greater pain and suffering, even to the point of death, but he did it for us in love. For you, and for me. To be loved that much is certainly cause for celebration.

Imperfectly Perfect Memories

2010-06-30T20:07:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, perfect situations don't always lend themselves to lasting memories. More often than not, it's those times when nothing goes according to plan that leave an indelible mark in your memory.

Our day wasn't to that extreme by any stretch of the imagination, but it will leave a mark nonetheless.

We've been enjoying a family vacation for the past few days in Banff National Park in Alberta Canada. Breathtaking to say the least. According to many people, the must see area in the park is Lake Louise and Lake Moraine. So, on Monday morning we packed up the car and started the 1 hour trek to the lakes. As we got closer, the thicker the cloud covering got and the more ominous the skies grew. By the time we got to the little tourist center just a ~~mile~~ kilometer or two away, it was pretty obvious that we were not going to be seeing the lake on this particular occasion. We opted to take a hike to a nearby waterfall.

Although the waterfall was awesome, we were determined to see and experience the lakes. So with broken skies and high hopes, we packed up the car on Wednesday morning and headed out.

Once again we were met by foreboding skies, but we were resolute to press on and reach the lakes.

50km away - Sheets of rain right over where we're heading.

20km away - Rain on the windshield.

15km away - The clouds are breaking a bit!

7km away - Elias blows chunks in the back seat! No place to pull off and clean up.

0km - Destination reached (yay)! Elias is covered in puke (boo)! The clouds have lifted (yay)!...... and.... to top it all off....... it's snowing. Really. Snowing.

THAT, my friends, makes a memory.

Clean up, clean up, ev-ry-bo-dy ev-ery-where...

2010-06-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

One day Dana came into the playroom to find a good thing... Elsie cleaning up the playroom... or so she thought. You be the judge.

... and Another Thing!...

2010-05-30T17:00:00.001-07:00

This was a little conversation that happened between our friend's daughter and Elias. I think the translation might sound something like the Costanzas of Seinfeld fame.

Easter 2010

2010-04-04T19:00:00.000-07:00

It was a wonderful Easter. A day to remember because it was a day that changed everything. Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead. Hallelujah!

There's really no mistaking that these two are related.

Hugs and kisses

Two beautiful girls

Posing. A little.

Cookin it up with Halmuni

Pre-Easter egg-hunt

Scotch. Handguns. Family. Cake. 40...nuf said.

2010-03-25T22:47:00.000-07:00

My Freddy turned the big 40 on the 18th of this month and I have been blessed to be involved in the last decade of those birthdays! It has been such a gift to witness first hand the life-giving changes that God has made in those 10 years. Love you sweetie! What will he have for you in the next ten years? I'm looking forward to walking in that with you!

Rest in Peace

2010-03-05T22:21:00.000-08:00

My grandma. What can I say besides She...Was...AWESOME. She was tough and kind. She was the quintessential little Italian Grandma and showed her love through food. She would cook 10 pies in one sitting to make sure we used up those apples and would have something warm to enjoy in the middle of winter. She cooked pots and pots of sauce and made sheets and sheets of ravioli. She fed us and loved us. She was a mean poker player, and I spent many full afternoons drinking 7-up floats and playing Chang Hi Rummy, or as we lovingly called it, Grandma Wins.

Tonight my grandma met Jesus, in person. Rena Georgi Conley past way after 99 years and 7 months. She was loved and I miss her.

poof 2 Months Goes By

2010-03-05T10:16:00.000-08:00

It's no mystery that time flies.

It seems like just yesterday that we were celebrating Elsie's 3rd Birthday... but now it's 8 weeks later! I don't think it's having a lack of things to write about, but rather, being so caught up living life that we seldom find time to take a step back and think or talk about life. That's when I remembered that this is not simply a scratchpad for us, but also (hopefully) a collection of snapshots throughout Elsie and Elias' lives for them to be able to revisit later in their lives.

SO, having said that, the last two months have been very fun, challenging, and wonderful. We've had some sicknesses run through the house (RSV - respiratory somethingerother virus) which turned Elsie into a barking seal and contender for the longest continuous snot-stream to exit a human being.

Elias also has been dealing with his first cold, but it has been concurrent with the introduction of 6 new teeth. Yes, you read that correctly - SIX. Poor little guy is going from 2 teeth to 8 in one fell swoop. Little overachiever. This does, however, explain why he has been slightly less than interested in eating, sleeping, or smiling.... but thankfully mostly all of those teeth have cut now and he's back to being himself... whatever that means as he seems to be changing daily.

She's Three

2010-01-29T14:22:00.000-08:00

On January 21st, 2010, Elsie turned three. No big fanfare or anything, just a really nice time with immediate family and her best friend Evey and the Myers.

What a fun and interesting three years it has been! Elsie has learned and grown so much. We love her.

Without further ado.... pictures.

A winged Elsie in a BEAUTIFUL outfit her ever-talented Halmuni made for her.

Closer view of the outfit. Good color for her!

The overachiever version of cupcakes from her loving mommy.

It didn't take much cajoling to get her in her princess dress that her Aunt Jennifer and Uncle Ed got for her.

Evey in the fairy princess outfit.... and Andrew's butt. I couldn't crop this without making it look really awkward.... which Andrew is probably feeling right about now.

The princesses.

Can you tell that the teen years are going to be fun?

Our little girl.

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. - Psalm 127:3

You are such an amazing blessing to us Elsie. We love you. Happy birthday Elsie-girl!

It's Not All Roses

2010-01-09T13:38:00.000-08:00

So, it has occurred to me lately that most of this blog is flowers, smiles, and blissful moments and as we all know, the contrasting moments make these so sweet.

The last week has been one of those weeks with the girl. You know (or maybe not), one of those weeks where you would trade your child for a bag of Skittles?.. and not even a big bag, just a Halloween fun-size.

So here are some thoughts from the dark side of the moon.

Soon to be parents or parents with newborn/infants - For whom does the bell toll? YOU. Your turn is coming.
Parents that either have kids that are this age, or parents that have older kids - pray for us, you know where we're at.
Parents that can't relate at all - please send us a sample of your happy pills.

Discipline your son, for there is hope. Do not set your heart on putting him to death. - Proverbs 19: 18

Harrumph.

Sure He Smiles, but Does He Laugh?

2010-01-02T19:45:00.000-08:00

Anyone who has met, or seen pictures of the boy knows that he smiles. A lot.

Interestingly enough, while he smiles more than Elsie did, he definitely doesn't laugh like she did. As a matter of fact, it's somewhat of a challenge to get him to laugh.... unless you're Elsie.

Laughing with Sister from Fred Choi on Vimeo.

Not Hiding Behind the Lens

2010-01-02T18:45:00.000-08:00

I'm usually the one hiding behind the viewfinder of the camera, but here are a few pics Dana snapped that came out. Please keep comments positive.

Discussing the upcoming photo session.

Level of participation - low.

Good enough... and with a 2.5 year old, good enough is perfection.

Christmas Time

2009-12-29T18:09:00.000-08:00

Wow. It's been over two weeks since we've posted anything on here. So much to report! Elsie got a job, Elias is driving, and Abbey the cat has turned over a new leaf and is a cuddly-cat.

These are all lies, some further from the truth than others.

It was a really good (and quiet) Christmas. We spent the day at home and just lounged around and relaxed throughout the morning. Halmuni Candy came over a little later and we all watched the Nutcracker on DVD and then shared a nice dinner. It was one of the more low-key and mellow times we've had in a while, but it was really nice.

Getting ready for......

First exposure to sticky buns... not of the diaper variety.

Elias doing his favorite thing.... besides eating and pooping of course.

He really is that happy.

Checking out her new kitchen.

Obviously about to say something really important.

Matching aprons - made by Halmuni.

You can't help but smile along.

Can YOU do it? I can do it!

2009-12-12T17:29:00.000-08:00

For very obvious reasons, this post will not be accompanied by pictures.

Disclaimer: The recounting of the following events may contain toilet humor and real life situations. Nothing gross, but the entirety of this story takes place in the bathroom.

We (a term to be used liberally - mainly Dana with my occasional participation) have been potty training Elsie recently. It has largely been successful, but one particular day was particularly funny and inspiring to us, but most importantly, we considered it of the utmost importance to chronicle potentially embarrassing moments for our later use with Elsie.

On this particular afternoon, Elsie was playing with her Elmo doll when she told Dana that Elmo needed to go potty, so off she went with Elmo in tow into the bathroom. After a bit of rustling and a toilet flush, Dana went in to check on how things were going.

"Ok." said Elsie.

"You know," explains Dana, "as long as you're in there with Elmo, you can also use the potty if you need to since you're wearing your pull-ups."

"Oh, ok."

After a few minutes, we peeked in and Elsie was sitting on her potty with her pants and diapers at her ankles - 'reading' a book.

Fast forward 3 minutes.

FLUSH

"Daddy, can you please come in here?" Elsie asks.

When I get to the bathroom she is in the process of pulling out her step-stool to get up and wash her hands. Needless to say, we were THRILLED that she went to the bathroom on her own.

She then explained to me that she needs me to grab the towel off the rack so she could dry her hands after cleaning up. Once I gave it to her, it was pretty apparent that my usefulness was exhausted as she dismissed me with a, "um, excuse me daddy, but I need some privacy."

It's a pretty thankless job I tell ya.

Say What?

2009-11-29T13:19:00.000-08:00

So, everyone knows that kids will ask a multitude of questions. Some out of genuine curiosity, and some out of the desire just because they know how to say "why?"

Well, on this particular evening, we were sitting at the dinner table having a conversation when Elsie stops and asks, "daddy, what's faith?"

I looked over at Dana with a big smile thinking... what a great opportunity.... but NOW what do I say?? I said a really quick prayer for a bit of wisdom and started thinking about Ephesians 2:8 and how we have faith in God and His son Jesus.

"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God..."

My prayer was answered in the form of a napkin.

I grabbed the napkin, wadded it up in my hand and asked Elsie, "Elsie, do you believe that I have a napkin in my hand?"

"Yes!"

I explained to her that she had faith and trust in the fact that there was a napkin in my hand even though she couldn't see it. Faith is knowing and believing without seeing I explained to her.

I know it was an imperfect analogy and will probably have to be revisited several times, but I'm thankful that her curiosity is providing opportunities to teach her.

Mangia! Mangia!

2009-11-29T12:59:00.000-08:00

We just got back from spending the Thanksgiving holiday over in Moses Lake with the family. It was a ton of fun and provided many moments to remember. Some of the highlights:

We have finally graduated from the 'kids' table. I was wondering if I was going to hit 40 before doing so.... made it by that much. I also realize that I might very well be dispatched to the kids table once again if more senior ranking family members attend next year, but for now, we have shed the proverbial water wings and are swimming with the big fishies (I know, a terrible analogy, but you get what you pay for).
We also took part in the annual post Thanksgiving ravioli making extravaganza. It's one of Dana's family's long-standing tradition to make hundreds and hundreds of raviolis from her grandmother's recipe (99 years old and in attendance!). It's a very fun tradition and one we hope to get Elsie and Elias involved in as soon as they're able. It's also pretty fun to sit down with the family and share a home-made meal with a nice glass of Chianti.

Did I Miss Something?

2009-11-20T10:23:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I got home and was hanging out with Elsie while Dana was out with Elias.... at one point something apparently happened (maybe a look? a tone in my voice??) and Elsie proceeded to bury her head, face down in her blanket on the floor beside me. When I asked her what was the matter she replied through teary eyes, "I'm sad." I asked her why, and the most she could get out was, "I don't KNOW!"

She then crawled into my lap and we cuddled on her request.

Yup - she's 100% girl, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

2009-11-18T19:30:00.000-08:00

Dance like no one is watching. Sing like no one is listening. Love like you've never been hurt and live like it's heaven on Earth.

— Mark Twain

Just Because

2009-11-11T15:11:00.000-08:00

Cute random snapshots of little E, or "the boy" as I refer to him.

New Coat

2009-11-11T14:43:00.000-08:00

Elsie is soooo blessed to have a talented Halmuni. The pictures speak for themselves.

Ob-La-Di

2009-11-09T13:50:00.000-08:00

Elsie singing her favorite part of one of her favorite songs. Is that redundant?

Dedication verses for Elias

2009-11-08T18:55:00.000-08:00

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.

- Psalm 139: 13-16

Halloween 2009

2009-11-07T18:53:00.000-08:00

We actually just got back into town from Hansville on halloween and didn't have any real plans. We were really thankful to get an invite to have dinner over at the Myers' place. The next day we carved Elsie's first pumpkin.

2009 - Halloween

Hansville 2009

2009-11-06T18:51:00.000-08:00

We recently took a little time away as a family. It was actually one of the first times that we went somewhere for not other purpose than getting away and spending some time together. It was awesome.

2009-Hansville

Elsie-isms

2009-11-04T18:50:00.000-08:00

I know there are always a bunch of things that are forgotten over time, which is really a shame considering the moments of joy and levity they provide. Among those are the funny and cute things that children say.... just ask Bill Cosby (obscure reference for some).
So without further ado, here are some of the most memorable Elsie-isms produced to date (I know I'm already forgetting a bunch of them).

"Kay you?" - Elsie's version of, "are you ok?" This phrase was usually accompanied by a gentle touch if you seemed to be distressed. Empathy at its finest.
"You're my honey." - Elsie would sometimes tell me this.
"Mmmmm, not really." - Her response to the question, "do you like mama's haircut." This was cute because it was more a reflection of reading 'Sam I Am' than an actual dislike for Dana's new haircut.
"SAM I AM!!!" - Not really sure what synapses in her little mind created this game. Sometimes when getting undressed, she will get her arms out of her shirt, and if the shirt gets stuck pulling it over her head so it looks more like a hat, she will exclaim this loudly with lots of laughs.
"Ok, ok, just minute!" - I have NO idea where she gets this...
"Oh, I see." - This is her response to when we give her an answer to a question she asks. It's just cute to hear a 3YO say it.
"My teeth are wobbly!" - This one came out just last night after getting out of her bath and before getting dried off. Chattering teeth.
"I'm NAKED!!!" - ..........

100 Days

2009-10-28T18:46:00.000-07:00

October 26th came and went without much hoopla, but it did mark a somewhat important day. On 10/26/09 Elias celebrated his 100th day since birth. The 100 day celebration used to hold great significance in Korean tradition because it marked a time when the baby's chance for survival increased dramatically, and although the advances of medicine and technology have all but made this celebration obsolete, I'm still thankful for the incredible blessing in little Elias.

Every day is a gift of grace from God.

The Refiner's Fire

2009-10-26T19:14:00.000-07:00

But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner's fire and like fullers' soap. He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, and they will bring offerings in righteousness to the Lord.

- Micah 3: 2-3

Contentment

2009-10-26T18:42:00.000-07:00

Could he be more content? Elias at 3 1/2 months with his mama and Turtle hat, compliment of Halmuni. Thank you Candy!

Our Refuge and Strength

2009-10-25T19:18:00.000-07:00

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling.

- Psalm 46: 1-3

Snapshot

2009-10-25T19:16:00.000-07:00

I love my little girl. That's about all I have to say about that.

Yes, Those Are Peppers

2009-10-25T19:10:00.000-07:00

So here's the back story.

I was down in Albuquerque a few weeks ago (9/20) and hatch chile season was in full-stride. I wanted some real bad. Without really thinking through the entire process, I stopped by one of the roasting stands while on my way to the airport. The plan was to stop by Walmart. buy a duffel and throw in the 20# of fresh roasted chiles and bring them on as carry-on. Wow.... even I amaze myself sometimes.

As the time ticked by, I realized that this plan may not come to fruition, or if it did, would be at the expense of making my flight home. So I chose the latter and dropped off my bag of capsaicin gold on the back porch of the family I stayed with.

Lots of holes cut in it..... Is it..... a puppy? I open it up, and there is 8# of fresh chiles straight from NM.

Big love to my brothers in ABQ!

Now THAT'S Metal

2009-10-23T19:20:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, August 18th, while riding her bicycle to work, our dear friend Angela was in an accident. Details of how the accident happened are still unclear and the West Seattle Police Dept. is investigating.

Ang was rushed to Harborview and was quickly admitted into the ICU where she has received excellent care from the many doctors and nurses attending her multiple injuries. The list of injuries she sustained go on like an old testament genealogy.

It's truly miraculous the way she's recovering from all of them. Initially, there was an understanding that only 10% of cases that suffered the same injuries even woke up from their coma. Not only is she up, but she is walking, talking, laughing, joking and crying. There's a long road ahead for her and her husband Josh, but the refiner's fire (Mal 3:2-3) has already clearly changed them both and I'm sure will continue.

So about the picture.... I was at the hospital where she has started her intensive rehab recently started and she leaned over to me with a slight grin and asked, "wanna see something cool?" Out comes this picture of the hardware in her elbow. As if that wasn't enough, she went one step further and had me feel where the metal is pushing against, and almost seemingly THROUGH, her skin.

What a trip.

I'm thankful for God's graciousness to let us have more time with our friend Angela. We love her.

Like Peas and Carrots

2009-10-18T19:23:00.000-07:00

Not much commentary needed. Evey and Elsie. BFFs.

A Sweet Moment

2009-10-18T18:26:00.000-07:00

Today on the way home from church we had to stop at a store. Dana went in and me and the kiddos were hanging out in the car waiting.

As would be expected, Elias got a bit fussy and started squawking. What happened next was totally unexpected, but so sweet that it almost made me tear up.

Instead of getting irritated or, even worse, joining in the cry-fest, Elsie leaned over to him as far as the straps of her car-seat would allow and tells him, "it's ok baby-brother... it's ok - mama will be right back. Don't worry baby brother, mama misses you very much."

2 Guys

2009-10-17T19:26:00.000-07:00

A little self portrait of me and the boy. Kickin it on the couch.

True Story - my mom sees the pic of me and boy and exclaims, "he looks **SO** much like you!!......... but more handsome."

I laughed. I love my mom.

No Teeth Required

2009-10-12T19:43:00.000-07:00

Not much to say. Cute, happy baby.

Pedicures For All

2009-10-11T18:36:00.000-07:00

So Dana came back with a fresh pedicure today and when Elsie saw her toes she exclaimed, "oh mommie, your toes are beuuuuuutiful!"

Dana then asked, "let me see your toes!"

Elsie shrunk with a, "my toes aren't beautiful."

*heartbreak*

So - Elsie got her first nail job. At first she was a little freaked out and thought it was going to hurt, so I volunteered to have one of my toes painted. Not only did it allay her fears, but I feel so much prettier too.

Not really, but it's all in the day of a daddy.

Elsie's First Bus ride

2009-09-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

Today, me and Elsie went on a spur of the moment adventure. She got to ride on a bus for her first time! We went from the W. Seattle junction to Pike Place Market.

Elsie was a little nervous about riding the bus at first, but eventually settled in and had a great time. She was quick to point out Mt. Rainier as well as the Space Needle.

Once at the market, she was pretty overwhelmed by all the commotion and people, but did great.

Eventually it was time to head home and we picked up a fresh bouquet of flowers to take home for Dana… it was a great day being a dad.

Kicking It

2009-09-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

We're not sure if Elsie ever did anything like this, but Elias does this funny little thing where he gets this wide-eyed serious look and starts kicking.

2009-09-25T18:30:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm a sucker for clever marketing and advertising. This was no exception.... although, they're all supposed to be good wines.

Smiley Boy

2009-09-15T18:37:00.000-07:00

Elias doing what he does best.. aside from eating and pooping.

Lincoln Park Fun

2009-09-12T18:27:00.000-07:00

Today was just another fun daddy-daughter day at Lincoln Park.... took some pictures and I really liked this one.

Meow!

2009-09-10T19:46:00.000-07:00

Fun with the 'Scribble' iPhone app.

Meeting Baby Brother

2009-07-06T18:33:00.000-07:00

This was Elsie's first introduction to her little brother. She was amazingly sweet and gentle with him. Hopefully this will continue.

Yeah, We've Got Fireworks

2009-07-05T18:34:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!

With a Bang

2009-07-04T19:08:00.000-07:00

We decided to have a bunch of friends over for the 4th. It seemed like a good idea. As it turns out, it was a great idea.

Here's the scene - I'm out on the back deck manning the grill with a houseful of people. I look over towards the front door and see Dana come in. She's just returning from a trip to the Ballard Locks with our neighbors.

Dana does a little come here motion. I make my way to the door with spatula in hand.

Dana: "I think my water broke."
Fred: Blank stare.

It was actually pretty funny.. even if it was "go time," we were both hoping that it could be delayed by a few hours so we could enjoy the BBQ with our friends, but that wasn't happening.

We spent the next few minutes throwing together the essentials and going over the bedtime routine for Elsie knowing that someone else would be putting her to bed on this particular night. Having a houseful of friends that sprung into action like a F-1 pit-crew was sweet. Everything was taken care of.

One of the benefits of arriving to triage on a holiday - we had the joint to ourselves. It was awesome. We also had a pretty nice view of a fireworks display.

After 10 hours or so, little Elias came into the world or air-breathers.

Lucky for him he made it to July 5th, or we would have been forced to name him something like "Freedom," or "William Wallace."

A Boy Makes 2

2009-04-03T18:26:00.000-07:00

Wow... if I ever wondered whether I'm a slacker, this blog is proof-positive. It has only been..... over TWO YEARS since I've posted anything in this. To say that much has happened is an understatement, but some of the biggest news is that Elsie is going to have a baby brother in 3 short months.

Are we ready?

Ha. No.

Elsie's Dedication Verses

2007-05-13T18:44:00.000-07:00

And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience a with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.

- Colossians 1: 9-12

I'm a Slacker

2007-01-26T18:23:00.000-08:00

Well - I'm a little behind on posting. There is MUCH to report, but I'm just going to take it one step at a time.

We have a beautiful baby girl. Simply saying that I'm happy is a gross understatement. There are few words that could adequately convey how happy I really am.

For my first little installments as a new parent, I would like to share a recent discovery.

***A New Biological Species***

Name: Friendandfamilius Photographius

Primary Diet: Images of newborn infants

I have become acutely familiar with the distinct sound it makes......

"MORE PICTURES!! SEND MORE PICTURES!!!!!"

The Secret Club?

2006-12-26T18:23:00.000-08:00

It hasn’t been a lack of material that has kept me from posting for the last 2 months. To the contrary - my mind has been spinning at 400mph with no slow-down in sight.

I am very anxious about having our baby. I am SOOO excited to meet our new little one that I can barely contain myself. I go from task-mode (get this done, get that done) to just pondering the ways in which life is going to change.

The typical reaction I get from people who don’t know we’re expecting is so consistent that it’s frightening. Let me preface this by saying that the reaction is shared by 100% of people I’ve talked to with kids.

“Yeah, we’re having a baby in x months.”

“Really? Congratulations! (The next few sentences differ on an individual basis, but wind their way to the same place). Yeah… life is going to change.”

This last statement is ALWAYS followed by a period of laughter ranging from a slight devious chuckle to an outright fit of gut-wrenching laughter.

I feel like I’m being indoctrinated into some secret society filled with special handshakes and secret meeting places.

So now the waiting period continues and grows in intensity. We are within 3 weeks of the delivery date and I couldn’t be happier. Well, I could be, but I don’t want to get ahead of things.

I can’t wait to meet my little girl.

It Moved

2006-08-07T18:21:00.000-07:00

6/26/06 - this is actually the date that inspired me to get off my duff and jot down some of my thoughts and - dare I say it - FEELINGS for recollection at a later date.

This day started out like so many... 2 bottles of cough syrup and some chocolate covered espresso beans. Kidding.

On this particular Monday, not only was it my brother's Birthday, but it was also our first visit to the doctor's office for our first baby checkup.

General mood: nervous anticipation.

Arriving at the hospital, hanging out in the waiting room, and even waiting in the examination room was relatively uneventful. Make no mistake, I was not nonchelant or indifferent at this point but the ton of bricks that was still circling at about 20,000' had only begun to make it's descent on my unsuspecting dome.

We sat through a few "what to expect" talks and customary deluge of information, but to be perfectly honest, it felt akin to sitting at the car dealership and having the salesman explain the powertrain warranty in great detail to a first-time driver.

After some time, the doctor told us that it was ultrasound time. Ultrasound? We were under the impression that it was too early for that and there really wouldn't be anything to see. Well, after a few short moments, the doctor came out with this big "ET" finger replica - less the glowing end.

Side note: Here is another clear case of why mankind would be doomed if men were responsible for childbirth. Even the sight of that "thing" had me scanning the room for exits. That, along with the prospect of being separated from beer for 9 months would be certain doom.

So the procedure starts... staring into a little sepia-toned screen, fully expecting to smile politely as we stare at a blob-like gummy-somethingerother. I don't know about you, but half the times, when someone excitedly shows me an early-term ultrasound, I'm really not sure I know what I'm looking at, and I don't think they do either.

The probe continues until the picture focuses in on it/him/her (to be edited at a later date).

Wow.

Head. Arms. Legs. Spine... and the most beautiful little beating heart. It's going a mile a minute... slightly slower than mine is at this point.

Even now though, my joy was slightly muted. Maybe because it still just looked like a picture. I wasn't connecting the dots somewhere. Then it/he/she kicked and started squirming around.

[Bugs Bunny voice]

"Pilot to bombardier, pilot to bombardier, open bomb-bay doors."

"Bombs away. Direct hit."

The mute button was off. We were hearing high-fidelity now.

Up to this time, I think I had only embraced the "concept" of parenthood. Yeah, I realize that I've only begun to see the tip of the iceberg, but I have to tell you, seeing the movement and LIFE made it more real and beautiful than I ever thought possible. The only way I can really describe it is that, at that moment I dropped all cognizant thought and emotionally embraced our unborn child. The tears would attest to that.

It was and continues to be the most joyous and equally fearful place to be.

I'm so thankful that I've been given the blessing of starting to really understand the love of a father.

This Changes Everything

2006-08-03T18:20:00.000-07:00

On 5/13/06 - saving for a new Honda S2000 convertible.
On 5/14/06 - saving for a new Honda Odyssey minivan.

*gasp*

Life is going to be changing drastically in a few months.