Auntie D has always been one of Elodie's favorite people. From the moment E met her she has absolutely adored her. I think they will have a long lasting special kind of relationship. :)
Thank you, Auntie D, for all of your help.
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Thank you Auntie D
I cannot even begin to express how grateful I am to Auntie D for watching Elodie so much for me. Her generosity helped us go on our date day, allowed me to go to a couple of my girlfriends' baby showers, as well as my mom's chemo treatments. Not only did I get some free time to myself, but I was also able to relax at home some too - because Auntie D and Uncle Brian would come over to play with E.
Auntie D has always been one of Elodie's favorite people. From the moment E met her she has absolutely adored her. I think they will have a long lasting special kind of relationship. :)
Thank you, Auntie D, for all of your help.
Auntie D has always been one of Elodie's favorite people. From the moment E met her she has absolutely adored her. I think they will have a long lasting special kind of relationship. :)
Thank you, Auntie D, for all of your help.
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Family
My brother flew home from Savannah while we were back, this is only the second time he's seen E since she was born. The first time she was only 3-months old.
It's hard living so far away from family, and I don't like it. Even though when we see each other it feels like we have never been apart, we all miss out on the daily everyday stuff that makes you a family.
I have family in Michigan, a brother in Georgia, a sister-in-law & family in Texas, another sister-in-law & family in Nebraska, and a mother and father-in-law who are moving to Missouri... and we live across the world in Japan... does it get any more spread out than that? Will there ever be a day that we live close to family? I pray about it everyday.
This is one of my favorite quotes, and really hits home for me: "Missing someone isn't about how long it has been since you've seen them or the amount of time since you've talked. It's about that very moment when you find yourself doing something and wishing they were right there by your side."
It's hard living so far away from family, and I don't like it. Even though when we see each other it feels like we have never been apart, we all miss out on the daily everyday stuff that makes you a family.
I have family in Michigan, a brother in Georgia, a sister-in-law & family in Texas, another sister-in-law & family in Nebraska, and a mother and father-in-law who are moving to Missouri... and we live across the world in Japan... does it get any more spread out than that? Will there ever be a day that we live close to family? I pray about it everyday.
This is one of my favorite quotes, and really hits home for me: "Missing someone isn't about how long it has been since you've seen them or the amount of time since you've talked. It's about that very moment when you find yourself doing something and wishing they were right there by your side."
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
18 Months
Our sweet girl turned 18-months while we were in Michigan. I can't believe an entire year and a half has gone by. Her personality has really begun to shine. Not only is she a complete love, but she's also very stubborn and opinionated!
Elodie loves people, especially family. Besides interacting with others, her favorite things are babies, books, balls, and of course swimming. Oh, and I can't forget music too! She really enjoys listening to toddler songs and even does the hand motions to songs such as "Little bunny foofoo," "Incy wincy spider," "If you're happy and you know it," and "Head, shoulders, knees, and toes." It's super cute.
She is always on the go, and very energetic these days. She's becoming more and more interested in gross motor activities, especially jumping on the bed and couch (thanks Grandma).
Her language has drastically increased since we've been in Michigan. I don't know if it's the constant interaction with others here, or only hearing nonstop English - probably both - but it's amazing to hear the amount of words she's been learning.
She certainly is the love of our lives! Happy 18-months sweet girl!
Elodie loves people, especially family. Besides interacting with others, her favorite things are babies, books, balls, and of course swimming. Oh, and I can't forget music too! She really enjoys listening to toddler songs and even does the hand motions to songs such as "Little bunny foofoo," "Incy wincy spider," "If you're happy and you know it," and "Head, shoulders, knees, and toes." It's super cute.
She is always on the go, and very energetic these days. She's becoming more and more interested in gross motor activities, especially jumping on the bed and couch (thanks Grandma).
Her language has drastically increased since we've been in Michigan. I don't know if it's the constant interaction with others here, or only hearing nonstop English - probably both - but it's amazing to hear the amount of words she's been learning.
She certainly is the love of our lives! Happy 18-months sweet girl!
Monday, March 18, 2013
"Woof Woof"
Elodie has a love-hate relationship with my mom's 6 yorkie dogs, or as she calls them "woof woof." One minute she will be playing with them and petting them, and the next she will grab their hair or hit them. I guess it's a good eye-opener for how she may react to baby #2. ;)
She has taken on the daily responsibility of helping my mom prepare their food everyday. She loves this job. Then she will sit there next to them and try to help them eat it... which they aren't always fond of. It keeps her busy and happy.
It has been really fun to see E's reaction to all of the dogs. She looks forward to seeing them everyday... it is actually the first thing she says to me in the morning when she wakes up. It's pretty cute. I look forward to getting our own dog when we're back in the U.S... and I know E does too.
She has taken on the daily responsibility of helping my mom prepare their food everyday. She loves this job. Then she will sit there next to them and try to help them eat it... which they aren't always fond of. It keeps her busy and happy.
It has been really fun to see E's reaction to all of the dogs. She looks forward to seeing them everyday... it is actually the first thing she says to me in the morning when she wakes up. It's pretty cute. I look forward to getting our own dog when we're back in the U.S... and I know E does too.
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Backyard Sledding
My mom has the perfect backyard for toddler sledding. The snow is beginning to disappear, so it's probably Elodie's last chance to get outside and go sledding. Luckily, her Uncle Brian loves to take her.
She has a pretty awesome inflatable baby sled. The back rest gives her good support so she can sit up, relax, and enjoy the ride - without falling over. She certainly loves her Uncle and Auntie.
E has been so spoiled this whole trip, and completely surrounded by love. I've never seen her so happy. This gives me huge inspiration to move home, soon.
She has a pretty awesome inflatable baby sled. The back rest gives her good support so she can sit up, relax, and enjoy the ride - without falling over. She certainly loves her Uncle and Auntie.
E has been so spoiled this whole trip, and completely surrounded by love. I've never seen her so happy. This gives me huge inspiration to move home, soon.
Friday, March 8, 2013
Cinnamon Roll Waffles
Have you ever tried cinnamon roll waffles?... well you should!
I found the idea on Pinterest from this website. All you have to do is buy the Pillsbury Grands Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls, place them in the waffle maker and cook them until golden, then top them with the cream cheese frosting, and BAM!... you have one quick, easy, and tasty breakfast. :)
Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day. This is just another reason I'm looking forward to moving back to the U.S. --- huge breakfast selections at home, in the grocery store, and at restaurants.
I found the idea on Pinterest from this website. All you have to do is buy the Pillsbury Grands Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls, place them in the waffle maker and cook them until golden, then top them with the cream cheese frosting, and BAM!... you have one quick, easy, and tasty breakfast. :)
Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day. This is just another reason I'm looking forward to moving back to the U.S. --- huge breakfast selections at home, in the grocery store, and at restaurants.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Angel
My mom has breast cancer. There's no easy way to say it. And this is her second time. She was cleared and relased from the cancer center after being cancer free for 10 years. They discovered the mass through a mammogram shortly following her release. This time it's triple negative, a more aggressive form of cancer that's harder to treat.
This is the Angel of Strength that I bought my mom 10 years ago, when I was told she had cancer the first time. It's gone to every single doctor's appointment, surgery, and treatment with my mom. You can see the wear on her body, from holding her over the years. Her wings have been glued, and so has her head. She's been through a lot, and so has my mom.
My mom has to go through 4 rounds of Chemo, with 3 weeks in between cycles. This will be followed by a month of radiation. This is why we're in Michigan, to help my mom and father-in-law who is also going through cancer. It's a difficult, stressful, and emotional time for everyone involved. I'm glad we're home.
Last Friday was my mom's 3rd treatment. So now she is officially half way through, with only one more chemo treatment to go. I had the opportunity to go with her to the cancer center for treatment. She snuggled up in one of the many lazy-boy chairs cuddled with a heated blanket while my brother and I sat next to her to keep her company for the next several hours.
I was surprised at how many patients were there. The waiting room was full, and almost every single chair in the treatment room was being used. Why is this horrible disease so prevalent now? It seems like everyone you talk to either has a personal experience with it or has a close family member or friend going through it. It's heartbreaking, and a horrible disease. Luckily both my mom and father-in-law have an optimistic and positive attitude. Despite everything they are going through, it amazes me how they can keep such a positive outlook. But at the same time, I suppose it's necessary - to get you out of bed and through the day.
This is the Angel of Strength that I bought my mom 10 years ago, when I was told she had cancer the first time. It's gone to every single doctor's appointment, surgery, and treatment with my mom. You can see the wear on her body, from holding her over the years. Her wings have been glued, and so has her head. She's been through a lot, and so has my mom.
My mom has to go through 4 rounds of Chemo, with 3 weeks in between cycles. This will be followed by a month of radiation. This is why we're in Michigan, to help my mom and father-in-law who is also going through cancer. It's a difficult, stressful, and emotional time for everyone involved. I'm glad we're home.
Last Friday was my mom's 3rd treatment. So now she is officially half way through, with only one more chemo treatment to go. I had the opportunity to go with her to the cancer center for treatment. She snuggled up in one of the many lazy-boy chairs cuddled with a heated blanket while my brother and I sat next to her to keep her company for the next several hours.
I was surprised at how many patients were there. The waiting room was full, and almost every single chair in the treatment room was being used. Why is this horrible disease so prevalent now? It seems like everyone you talk to either has a personal experience with it or has a close family member or friend going through it. It's heartbreaking, and a horrible disease. Luckily both my mom and father-in-law have an optimistic and positive attitude. Despite everything they are going through, it amazes me how they can keep such a positive outlook. But at the same time, I suppose it's necessary - to get you out of bed and through the day.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Date Day
Joe and I haven't been away from Elodie for an extended period of time... ever. Childcare isn't really easy to come by in Japan. So you're probably wondering, what do people do with their children when they need a break or have something to do? Well, they either take their kiddos along, put them in daycare, of leave them with family. "Babysitters" don't exist, and it's especially not common for someone to come over to your house to watch your children. So since I don't want to put her in daycare, Joe and I really don't go out just the two of us. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against using daycare, but I'm not comfortable putting her someplace where I can't communicate with the staff. Communication barriers + different cultural expectations = one nervous mama. I suppose that's just the price we pay for living abroad.
So now that we're back in MI, I thought what better way to celebrate Joe's birthday than with a date day! An entire day for just the two of us! It was the perfect situation - family and friends could help watch E, and I knew two very important games were going to be happening while we are home. So I bought tickets for the Redwings vs. Blackhawks hockey game in Detroit, followed by the University of Michigan vs. Michigan State basketball game in Ann Arbor. Back-to-back games! And the best part is that I was able to surprise him as an early birthday present. I never get to surprise him, so it made it extra exciting. Hubby was very happy.
We've seen the Redwings live in Vancouver, but this was Joe's first time visiting The Joe. It was a great game - started off a little slow with the Blackhawks dominating, but the Redwings fought back and managed to keep it a 1-0 game until the last 2 minutes. Unfortunately the Blackhawks scored to tie it 1-1, and then won in a shootout in overtime. But despite the loss, it was still a great game and nice to spend time just the two of us.
It was a fantastic game and went back and forth for a while. Michigan was up 10-points until the lead slipped away from them in the final minutes of the game. I really thought Michigan was going to blow it, but luckily they were able to keep their lead and won by 1-point in the final 4 seconds. It was the perfect ending to our date day.
Happy early birthday, Hubby. I'm so glad we were able to have a date day to celebrate. This might be the one thing that I'm looking forward to the most when we move back to the U.S. - babysitters and date nights. :)
Thank you to everyone who made this day possible for us by watching Elodie! We certainly couldn't have gone without all of your help!
So now that we're back in MI, I thought what better way to celebrate Joe's birthday than with a date day! An entire day for just the two of us! It was the perfect situation - family and friends could help watch E, and I knew two very important games were going to be happening while we are home. So I bought tickets for the Redwings vs. Blackhawks hockey game in Detroit, followed by the University of Michigan vs. Michigan State basketball game in Ann Arbor. Back-to-back games! And the best part is that I was able to surprise him as an early birthday present. I never get to surprise him, so it made it extra exciting. Hubby was very happy.
We've seen the Redwings live in Vancouver, but this was Joe's first time visiting The Joe. It was a great game - started off a little slow with the Blackhawks dominating, but the Redwings fought back and managed to keep it a 1-0 game until the last 2 minutes. Unfortunately the Blackhawks scored to tie it 1-1, and then won in a shootout in overtime. But despite the loss, it was still a great game and nice to spend time just the two of us.
We had to leave the hockey game a little early to beat traffic in order to make it to Ann Arbor in time for the UM basketball game. So sadly, we missed the overtime hockey shootout. But the good news is that we made it to Ann Arbor just in time for tip-off. After a short 30-40 minute drive and a wardrobe change in the car, we were ready for game #2.
It was a fantastic game and went back and forth for a while. Michigan was up 10-points until the lead slipped away from them in the final minutes of the game. I really thought Michigan was going to blow it, but luckily they were able to keep their lead and won by 1-point in the final 4 seconds. It was the perfect ending to our date day.
Happy early birthday, Hubby. I'm so glad we were able to have a date day to celebrate. This might be the one thing that I'm looking forward to the most when we move back to the U.S. - babysitters and date nights. :)
Thank you to everyone who made this day possible for us by watching Elodie! We certainly couldn't have gone without all of your help!
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Hina Matsuri - "Girls Day"
Hina Matsuri is also known as Girl's Day, or the Doll Festival. On the 3rd day of March, families celebrate their pride in their daughters by displaying dolls of the Emperor and Empress in a prominent place in the home. These dolls are not played with. They are usually gifts from the grandparents or inherited from the girl's mother, and are quite delicate and expensive! They are unwrapped with ceremony, admired for a few weeks, and then put back into their boxes. One popular superstition says that if the dolls aren't returned to their boxes soon after the 3rd, the daughters will not get married.
Girls often dress in kimono for the occasion, make hina dolls out of paper, drink special sweet sake made without alcohol, and eat special food sweets such as "Nama-gashi" made from sticky rice and sweet beans.
Since we are in Michigan right now, we can't exactly celebrate Girl's Day the proper way. But not to worry, Elodie still got plenty of presents. I went to my first Mom-2-Mom sale at an elementary school with my good friend Kitty.
I got loads of goodies - board books, Noah's Ark play book with animals set, the dog you can see in the photo that sings all sorts of songs (Elodie LOVES him), a snowsuit for next year, 4 pairs of shoes, and tons of clothes. I walked out of the school carrying 3 grocery bags full of stuff, and only spent $22. What a deal!
Another reason I'm looking forward to moving back to the U.S. - SALES! Cheaper prices, more variety, better toys, and cuter baby/toddler clothes. :)
Girls often dress in kimono for the occasion, make hina dolls out of paper, drink special sweet sake made without alcohol, and eat special food sweets such as "Nama-gashi" made from sticky rice and sweet beans.
Since we are in Michigan right now, we can't exactly celebrate Girl's Day the proper way. But not to worry, Elodie still got plenty of presents. I went to my first Mom-2-Mom sale at an elementary school with my good friend Kitty.
I got loads of goodies - board books, Noah's Ark play book with animals set, the dog you can see in the photo that sings all sorts of songs (Elodie LOVES him), a snowsuit for next year, 4 pairs of shoes, and tons of clothes. I walked out of the school carrying 3 grocery bags full of stuff, and only spent $22. What a deal!
Another reason I'm looking forward to moving back to the U.S. - SALES! Cheaper prices, more variety, better toys, and cuter baby/toddler clothes. :)
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