Gymboree Ad

Gymboree Ad
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

Yep, there are our stylin' Hubei girls, Helen & Claire, off to see Dan Zanes in concert. Complete with a toddler mosh pit and Father Goose, it was quite the event. (Not to mention dessert at Max's...)

Lavendar Acrobat Aspires to Join the Red Panda Acrobats

Lavendar Acrobat Delights in the Red Acrobats
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

Finding ourselves again "Between New Years" it was time for our local FCC Celebration. The Red Panda Acrobats were there, and Helen was much more excited about the show than when she saw it last summer. She ooohed and ahhhed after each amazing stunt.

Chinese Song

Chinese Song
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

The most irresistable parts of the program were those involving children. The song presented here was one we knew from our Mandarin Music class, allowing us to sing along.

Dragon Legs

Dragon Legs
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

Of course there were lion dancers, and the subsequent parading of kids in their own hand-decorated dragon garb. Helen wanted so much to be a part of this last year, but was a little too small, and a little to timid. This year, to her delight, she managed to bring up the caboose.

Kate & Naomi Enjoy the Show

Kate & Naomi Enjoy the Show
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

There were many friends to catch up with.

Kate & Naomi had a terrific time.

Salsa Girls

Salsa Girls
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

And, the Salsa girls made their debut. These charismatic little Hubei mei mei's stole everyone's heart. (Rose & Marie in order... I think I have it figured out...)

Upside Down Fun

Helen & Ryleigh Upside Down
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

The year of the Pig is going to an upside-down crazy fun year -- especially if Helen, Marie & Ryleigh have anything to do with it.

What we did and didn't do

Apple Crisp Poacher
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

What we didn't do...

Go to Lake Tahoe
(since Helen was sick most of Friday and Saturday)

What we did do...

House projects, errands, a lot of cooking, long walks, farmer's markets -- fantastic family time. Grandmas says we should schedule more of these "didn't do" weekends!

Helen's Hat Trick

Helen's Hat Trick
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

In hockey, a hat trick is the equivalent of a triple play. And that is what Helen is wearing. About a decade ago, we bought this jersey for our nephew Ian (who is now 15). When he outgrew it, his brother Luke was next in line. Over Christmas, this well-loved garmet was passed down to Helen. Now that's a power play!

Moms in Moss Landing

Moms in Moss Landing
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

Grandma had a birthday this week (and a noteworthy one too!)

To celebrate we strolled through Moss Landing, browsing through antique stores, and enjoying another phenomenal meal at Phil's Fish Market.

Why it's hard to go shopping

Why it's hard to go shopping
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

We were tempted to leave Helen in the rug gallery. After all, it was nap time, and she seemed pretty comfortable.

A little performance art never hurt a fine art showroom, right?

Bob in a Boxster

Bob in a Boxster
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

Almost 3 years old, and only her third haircut. It is always a trick to get Helen to agree to lose her locks, but just about anything is possible with a lollipop.

I was pleasantly surprised today that Helen opted to sit in the Boxster instead of the pink jeep. Interesting choice given that she is prone to tell us to "slow down" while in the car with us lately.

Hair Ribbons

Hair Ribbons
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

The results were lovely.

Purple, blue and pink ribbons to match the striped turtleneck.

Thirty Eight and Looking Great

38 and Looking Great
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

How better to celebrate the onset of age and high cholesterol than with a big plate of Tiramisu? Chris turned 38 yesterday -- the same day that Helen started her 30 day countdown to age 3.

It seems we are all growing up more quickly than we would like. As if to remind us of this fact, Helen began a critical developmental milestone by beginning to ask the critical question, "why". Now that it's started, each "why" takes me down a never-ending trail. "Mama, why are you drying your hair?" (because it's wet). "Why is it wet?" (because I took a shower) "But why don't you want it wet?" (because it makes me cold) "Why does it make you cold?" (because mama has the body temperature of lizard).

2007 is going to be a great year. I can feel it. Please don't ask me why.

Santa Came Again

Santa Came Again
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

Santa came again bringing gifts from King City, Eureka, and delivering a few items that were too big for his Boston sleigh ride.

Eyeshadow for Chula

Eyeshadow for Chula
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

A new doll set for Helen included some "pretend makeup" -- yikes! Since mama has always refused to wear it, it was deemed that the dog was a better choice for a makeover.

Jackpot!

Jackpot!
Originally uploaded by Chris & Kelly.

Behold the most beloved gift of the year. I can't explain it, but it does keep Helen entertained beyond belief.