Road Trips & Stories

 

 

 

I love road trips.  I am definitely one of a few dinosaurs left who enjoys spending hours in the car with my family.  Yes, it’s never perfect as I’ve envision a long drive to be but the best part of the ride is the memories & stories that we would share with one another.  I know with a blink of an eye, time passes by so quickly.  Encouraging my family to embrace this “family tradition” is pretty tiresome…a teenager and a grumpy old man.  Thank goodness that Ethan has my adventurous spirit & is welling to try anything with a smile.  Ethan is a child after my own heart.  My husband and my daughter ~ they are one in the same…that’s why I always have to push them to the brink by giving them hugs & kisses. 

Marisa is really lucky for being born many years past.  She’s had plenty of opportunities for many road trips…with us, her cousins, her grandmothers, her uncles, her aunts and her friends.  Imagine the stories that she will be able to pass on to future generations or maybe to her baby brother!  I hate to sound like a broken record; however, I’ve told my children that having this opportunity to retell stories of our family’s past will be of great value to them.

 

Ethan is really lucky for being born later because he is so spoiled!  Ethan is spoiled in a good way because he has our attention, devotion, admiration, encouragement, love, and time.  I love watching Ethan interacts with Marisa & with daddy.  I hope that he will learn to appreciate our family’s tradition in story telling, especially when daddy reflects on his own upbringing & experiences.  My husband always figure out ways to make us laugh…his story about us missing the Grand Canyon on our drive from Provo, Utah to Las Vegas, Nevada…implication…the canyon is so big & famous so therefore we were crazy to have missed it.  To date, my husband still has not made it to see the Grand Canyon!  Another funny story about being robbed by someone who he knew from his high school when he was managing the family owned store in Alexandria, Virginia.  How about going fishing with his step dad in Thailand?  He said that his dad would toss a grenade into the water & within minutes, he would see fish floating up to the top & he would dive in to gather them.  Just like something that you would see in the movies!  Oh, he has a lifetime of stories…I need to collect them all so that my children will always have something to help bring a smile to their faces cause I know that my husband’s stories have always brought tears to mine from laughing so hard!

 As we embark on our travels this past Sunday, the 10^th of July…I was so excited to have these moments with my family.  Summer is really bad for my husband to spend quality time with us since work is seasonal…having to limit our income to only one, we’ve been living without excessive stuff.  It’s difficult but it’s a sacrifice that we all have taken to ensure that our children come first.  The benefits outweigh the struggles…especially when I get to spend my days with my children. 

 

We woke up & got ready to leave the house at around seven-thirty; however, by the time we hit the road, it was about nine.  I was a happy camper since everyone was in perfect spirit, even for the “sleepy member” in our household.  One thing to remember for the next road trip, don’t let someone drive who doesn’t like to receive directions nor allow someone to sit at the passenger sit who doesn’t like to give directions.  Hey, one more story to retell, right?  Another thing to remember is to not follow the GPS directions “literally” without looking at the whole picture first ~ this will cause your blood pressure to spike!  In all, it was memorable to watch the blind leading the blind while Ethan & I smiled our way to our destinations.  On our return, my husband said that we should take a road trip to Florida before our children starts school…I’m ready in a heartbeat!

Family time

Just wanted to upload some pictures and will follow up with my story at a later date...it's 2:11 in the morning...my husband woke me up at midnight and I can't seem to go back to sleep.  Wish that we were still at the beach right about now!  My special love...Van, Marisa and Ethan

Road Trip

Ethan was up pretty early again this morning.  Ethan was a bit saddened because he did not see his daddy before going to bed last night nor did he see his daddy when he woke up.  Ethan gave me a hug but I could see in his eyes that he was wondering where his daddy was.  Ethan stumbled to the computer room looking for daddy but of course, no such luck.  Ethan brushed his teeth & I got him dressed for school. 

Ethan’s summer school teachers are Mr. Bob, Ms. Ronnie, and Ms. Debbie.  They are really great!  I’ve been told that Ethan is such a sweet little boy & listens well.  They also said that he is really independent & is very active.  I’m glad that it did not take him very long to get acclimated with the teachers nor with the new routine.

 

Marisa and I went to get Ethan a little bit early since we were taking a little road trip to visit my mother in Maryland.  It’s been a while since we’ve seen her and also it was a great opportunity for my children to see their baby cousins.

 

The ride to Baltimore wasn’t too bad.  Marisa and I talked about so many things & Ethan was busy listening to his music.  One thing that I told Marisa was that I wish that I could live forever.  I know that it’s a silly wish but I just don’t want to miss being with my children for always.  I told Marisa that she should always remember how much she is treasured by both me and her daddy.  I know how difficult it was for me growing up without a father.  I feel so blessed to be able to watch my children grow up strong and confident.    I know that we love and adore them with every breath that we take!

When we pulled up to the house, Ethan said “Thu”, which translates to grandmother.  I’m so amazed of how Ethan recognizes this place even though we rarely come to visit (maybe twice in one year).  Thu comes to visit us in Virginia more so than us going up to Baltimore. 

It was great seeing my children with my mother and their cousins.  Ethan and Madison measured themselves up against a wall.  Marisa carried Annabella around and kept wishing that Ethan was as light as she.  My mother was thrilled that she’s going to New York this weekend and I was thrilled just treasuring these moments.

On our drive back to Virginia, thank goodness that Ethan fell asleep.  The storm was amazing and the traffic was exhausting!  It took us forever to return home but at least Ethan had a really nice nap.

Wednesday with love

Ethan is resting...it's only been two days of summer school and my boy is so tired.  Well, he woke up at 6:15 am and I freaked.  I don't know if Ethan was dreaming but he was calling for me not realizing that I was next to him.  I know how difficult it is being apart & I wonder if Ethan was missing me too.

It was such a traumatic day for Ethan yesterday.  I went and waited for Ethan at our elementary  school but the bus driver ended up dropping Ethan in front of our house!  Oops!  I had checked the bus schedule & also confirmed with the school yesterday morning.  Behold, I was misinformed!  The bus driver called & told me that nobody was at the bus stop.  I rushed from the school back to the house & my blood was rising.  In my mind, I could see my baby's face.  I jumped out of the car & sprinted onto the bus.  I saw my Ethan's eyes.  Oh, so sad!  My heart just broke when I saw so much tears dripping from Ethan's face.  When Ethan saw my face, he closed his eyes, opened up his arms & just let himself go…drip, drip, and drip.  It felt like his heart was broken too because he was unable to see me at his bus stop!  My poor boy...don't you know how much mommy loves you?  I just wanted to see his beautiful happy face again...after our long embrace, Ethan finally looked upon my face.  He smiled and said, "Mommy" and then continued to hold me really tight.  Yes, Ethan...mommy is extremely sorry & I too love you!

Today, both Marisa and I waited for Ethan at the bus stop.  When we saw the big yellow bus coming around the corner, Marisa jumped out of the car and I followed.  Ethan almost was in tears but when he saw both of us as the door opened; his smile reassured us that everything was just fine!  

Friday - disco music

OMG ~ if Ethan wasn't this stinking sweet, I would have trashed the electric piano/keyboard that he just loves to death.  Anything that is musical stops Ethan in his track. I love watching him dance around in circles and stomping his feet with such determination.  His elated face, his glimmering eyes, his million dollar smile, his pure joy...how can I not want him to have his music?

On any other day, it would be fine for Ethan to blast this thing so that our neighbors may enjoy the sound of music.  Today, I'm not feeling very well.  My head hurts, my back aches, and my tummy were not feeling too good.  My first thought was, wow, wouldn't it be great if I was pregnant again?  It would be a perfect miracle, of course, since are hearts and arms are always open for another baby.  

Today, Marisa noticed that Ethan used another new word.  He said for her to "go".  Of course, Ethan knows how to use the word "stop" but he just recently learned to put his right arm up & his palm spread open to indicate for us to stop while shouting the word "stop".  In addition, Ethan uses the word "eat" and signing too when he is hungry.  I'm so proud that Ethan is making great efforts to communicate with us!  I can't wait until he is able to complete a whole sentence without hesitations.

Wednesday without my children

A loud thump woke me up this morning.  It was difficult to be in deep sleep especially when I have to be up early to meet my mother-in-law this morning!  I hate having this anxiety of knowing that I have to be somewhere & then I would panic because I don’t want to be late or make others wait for me.  I kept waking up every hour to check the time even though the alarm was already set for me to be up by seven.  My husband stumbled out of bed and causes a huge commotion when he tripped on our laundry basket.  I was afraid that it would wake my baby up so I jumped out of bed looking like a crazy woman!  My hair was all over the place & my mind was racing since I thought that I was late!  He turned around & asked why I was up so early.  I thought that I extremely late but when I looked up at the blurry display screen on our alarm clock, it was only 6:30…two hours before my meeting!

I went downstairs to gather my daughter up from her sleep.  It was too early to take my children with me so I left my daughter to watch her baby brother.  I arrived with plenty of time to spare & it was great because it allowed me to read my book.  I’m reading one of Amy Tan’s books while I’m able to…with some “free” moments without my children; I have to take advantage of this.  I’ve been rejuvenated & ready to take on the rest of the day!

When I finally was able to see my children again, we ended up having Pho for lunch.  It was great to see them, especially, when they were able to bond without me being with them, even for a short time.  It’s nice to see how much my baby boy adores his big sister.  It’s even better when I see how much my oldest is able to care for her baby brother without me urging her on.  Thank you to you both for allowing mommy this day to help Yai with her needs & not let mommy worry about your well being. 

Happy Father's Day

I am reminded everyday, when I look into my children’s eyes, of the beauty and love that surrounds us.  Having a father who adores every single cell in their body has really had a profound impact in my children’s lives and also mine.  I’m grateful and feel so blessed on a daily basis to have my best friend share in the joy of marriage, the miracle of parenthood, and having him completely & utterly complete my life.  My intention is not to be so over-the-top nor to seem so obsessed with him; however, finding the right words to describe my husband does not do him any justice.

Van is a wonderful father, a superb son, an awesome uncle, a loving brother and is my rock.  Van is a remarkable person who without a doubt exemplified the “perfect husband”.  He is sincere, kind, selfless, loving, patient, fair, faithful, honorable, wise, honest, courageous, humorous, confident, & truly beautiful.  

My husband is a man with very few words but he believes that a person’s action speaks louder than words.  He has a sense of humor that can only be matched by his contagious laughter.  His eyes would sparkle & his whole being would shine when he talks to & about his children.  His wisdom has grounded me & he is oh so loved. 

My husband possesses qualities that I wish for others to achieve.  I’m amazed that there is such a man that exists in this world.  My Van has made a huge difference in my life & has inspired me to be a better person every day.  I love every possible moment that I have to being with him.   He, without a doubt, is the epitome of the perfect gift.  This greatest gift that I’ve been longing for & never knew would be able attainable.  I thank my lucky star for my husband & I do wish him a Happy Father’s Day!

Wondrous Wednesday

Perfect day to stay cuddled up because it’s nice & cool in comparison to those hot, hot, hot days that we’ve had last week.

I woke up at 6:15 this morning looking for my hubby.  He was up & out of the house already & it was making my heart shivered up a bit not being able to say good-bye to him.  He came home a bit earlier last night to see Ethan and Marisa before bedtime.  He also wanted to catch up with me but I was so tired and pressed to put Ethan to bed on time.  I just didn’t want our Ethan to be tired in the morning nor be tired for school.  I really made a conscious effort to wake up early today to have some me time with my husband.  Within minutes of looking out the window & sitting down on this computer, I heard the front door open.  My heart was fluttering with excitement as I ran downstairs to greet my husband.  I was so thrilled to have a second chance to tell him how much I love & appreciate him & for him to have a great day.  I gave him a long hug & a kiss; then we walked upstairs to see Ethan in his deep sleep.  He asked why I was up so early, I told him that I just wanted to see him especially when I wasn’t able to spend any time with him last night.  We stood in our room watching our baby boy peacefully sleeping ~ we both looked at each other & smiled.  Speechless, yes, we are amazed with our boy!  We are so proud that we both have this opportunity to watch in amazement.  My husband gave me a hug that almost broke my back before heading down the stairs.  Part of me wanted him to stay a bit longer so that his son could greet him but since he has to work far today, I didn’t want to be selfish.

Last night, of course putting Ethan to bed while daddy was swinging him around was a great indication that sleep was not happening.  I’ve asked my husband to not get Ethan so wound up around bedtime but there is no stopping Ethan from playing with his daddy!  I kept nudging my husband to go & have dinner & to spend time with Marisa.  I really want us to spend more time with Marisa since she is growing up too quickly.  I know that she’s been missing her dad & wants “me” time with him too.  Ethan wanted to show daddy some of his dance moves ~ twirling, spinning on his head, wiggling his tush, somersaults (head rolls), leg extensions, and clapping.  Ethan newly discovered that if he put his head down on the floor & pushes long enough, he would flip over.  Imagine my nerves as I watched Ethan imitates the “So You Think You Can Dance” dancers.  I watched in awe as to how fast he learned or figured things out by himself.  After flipping over about ten times, Ethan had just enough of this move & then turned to twirling.  I hate having to stop Ethan because I was afraid that he would get dizzy but no…he proceeded with such grace & joy.  I was amazed that he did not fall from spinning around like a merry-go-round.  Ethan was ecstatic to find something fun to do!  I was in heaven hearing his laughter & seeing the joy that dancing has brought him.  I did not want to prevent Ethan from displaying his skills to his daddy…I knew how proud it would make my husband to see how much his son is capable of doing.  I know how proud I am of Ethan for each and every day!

By 7:15, gave Ethan time to get ready for school.  It took awhile since it was a bit cool but once Ethan got into the car, he was ready for the day!  While walking in the hallway towards his class, Ethan spread out his arms and did his twirl.  All of this with a smile on his face!   Ethan gave all of his teachers a great big hug & waved at every student that passes by.  Ethan walked into his class & took off his jacket & backpack.  He went & placed them on the pegs against the wall.  He then proceeded to the computer to play on “Bailey’s”.  I gave my baby a kiss on his head and said for him to be good, to have a great day, and that mommy loves him.  Ethan glanced up upon my face & I loved seeing the confidence in his eyes.  The look of “mommy, I’ll miss you too but I’ll be fine & for you to have a great day too”.  Marisa just said “bye mommy” as she is heading out the door for school.  I told her to have a good day & that I would see her later.  It’s going to be a wonderful Wednesday!

Not taking things for granted

Decisions, decisions, decisions.  After a long struggle, I'm glad to say that sending Ethan back to school was the right decision.  Ethan's pediatrician wanted him to stay away from school just a bit longer to help Ethan recover.  Ethan’s pulmonologist advised that it was fine to send him back since we have a few days left of school and we are taking precautions.  I know that I can’t shelter Ethan forever plus Ethan is so happy being in school with his teachers and his classmates.  Ethan’s doctors said for us to take precautions…like keeping him away from “sick folks”, washing his hands and face, changing his clothes when we come from outside, keeping him inside when it’s harsh out, and so many other items on their list.  Now, I can abide by some of the items but it’s difficult to control outside influences.

Ethan’s first day back to school ~ he was smothered by his classmates.  I know that Ethan was just as happy to see them again. 

Ethan's second day of school ~ field day and it was so hot.  It was difficult to keep him from joining his classmates in going outside to play.  We only went out to plant some flowers; however, it was way too hot to allow Ethan to stay outside much longer.  Thank goodness that we had to leave early to take grandmother places...Ethan was just as happy to see his Yai.  My son did not fuse during the seven hours that it took to get things done for Yai.  One, Ethan was so tired that he had fallen asleep and two, he had his two beautiful cousins to keep him company.

Ethan's third day of school, TGIF.  After being such a good boy yesterday while helping grandma, I needed to treat Ethan with a special trip to McDonald's.  Ethan picked our table and boy, he was just as delighted to be there as I was to watch him shine.  We made it through three days of school and under harsh environment too...the classroom, the heat, the smothering, the ER, and the special trip to McDonald's.

Not taking anything for granted ~ thank goodness that my son is such a fighter!

Now that you've asked - PYO

 

Family members asked about our strawberry picking venture that we took this past Saturday.  Now, don't take this the wrong way ~ my husband's remedy to "PYO" is that it's just more convenient and time saving to run to the grocery stores.  My reasoning to take my children out to "pick-you-own" farms is to experience life outside of what they are exposed to.

 I grew up learning how to find certain fruits and vegetables that are edible in the wild.  I even learned to find certain grass that we could use to stir fried!  I've always loved being able to climb coconut trees, mango trees, lychee trees, logan trees, and fruit bearing trees that I could find growing up in Laos, Thailand and even the United States!  I just want my children to appreciate what Mother Nature has provided and also give them the opportunity to have lasting memories of being "young".  Yes, my family's trips in the fall for apples were more successful but I wanted to find that perfect strawberry.  Without a beat, we got up really early to hit the road.  Just me, Ethan and Marisa since Van were off to work.  I decided to take my children to the farm closer to our home but of course, we were three weeks late on the picking!  Although it was a nice experience and we were able to take some pictures, my husband would be correct that the stores had better selections than what I was able to pick for $1.00 at the farm.  Hey, Ethan loved it and I love it...for my teenager...she was really happy to be out of the sun and into the car with her music blasting away :~)  I have not given up...we are due to go cherry picking soon! 

Lonesome Wednesday

 Yes, we are attempting to have Ethan back in school.  The last time Ethan attended school (5/2/2011), he ended up being hospitalized!  My husband and Ethan’s grandmother are reluctant for me to send Ethan back.  For my son’s sake, I must give him all of the opportunities without the fear of him getting sick again.  Maybe I’m being unreasonable, but I know that being with other children is really a great benefit to Ethan.

Now, I’m lonely without my son.  I miss watching him jump around like a rabbit.  I miss seeing him dancing and trying to copy what he is seeing on “So you think you can dance”.  I miss him telling me “mom, eat” and calling for me every waking moments.  I miss him come up at random to kiss and hug me.  I miss how his eyes light up and his face gleams when he hears his Thai songs.  I miss him ask for his sister and his daddy every time he sits on my lap.  I miss him saying “no” when I ask him questions.  I miss putting him on the potty and watching him swings his legs back and forth.  I miss him putting the toilet paper into the commode before flushing the toilet. I miss him helping me rearrange the house even though it is not required.  I miss him taking all of the pictures that I’ve already organized to be put in the album out on the floor and looking at them one by one.  I miss him asking for a book and then attempting to read on his own.  Ethan doesn’t like it when I try to help with “pronunciations”.  Even Marisa woke up this morning an asked where her brother was.  I told her that he was in school and we both smiled at each other.  Yes, this house would not be a home without our darling Ethan!

Monday, 6/6/11 ~ while sitting in the waiting room to have Ethan’s blood drawn, he truly amazed me with his courage and genuinely sweet temper.  It took an hour sitting in the waiting room before being called.  Ethan did not fuss but rather, he entertained everyone who was waiting just as long as we did.  He was reciting his alphabet as best as he could…yes, Ethan recognizes a lot of letters such as “A, B, C, E, I, M, N, O, P, U, etc.”  He was also counting his fingers and toes…un, two, tree, four, ive, ix, nine, ten.  Of course, when I tried to correct him…he said “mommmmmm”.  My boy is feisty and did not want any help to say his ABC’s and 1,2,3’s.  During this time, Ethan was saying bye and hi to everyone who walked passed him! 

Ethan had about twelve little vials of blood drawn and he did not cry a bit.  Now, he did wiggle like a worm because he was held against his will but he made mommy really proud with how well he handled himself!

One more hour before Ethan is home.  I just can’t wait to see my pure joy and hold my perfect boy in my arms!

What my family has given me...

 

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." 

Winston Churchill

You're my perfect gift, a gift that I could never have imagined in a million years but have always dreamed about.  At times I wonder if I should dare to wake up from utopia.  I am so thankful for my three precious gifts.  Miracles happen, one step at a time!

One of my all time favorite picture ~ early morning on 4/26/2011.  The most important men in my life were sharing in one of those moments ~ greeting the day!

Extraordinary Privilege

My dear son, I am profoundly at awe by how remarkably resilient you are!  After fighting an ear infection and strep throat and having to endure two days in the emergency room, your spirit never broke.  Although you were really tired yesterday and your body was fighting a fever of 105, you still found the strength to give mommy kisses on her wrapped injured arm.  Am I not the luckiest mom in the world?

Ethan, you are so brave and your sweet spirit serves as a guiding light for me to continue to stay strong and to be positive.  You are but only three; however, your sweet disposition and attitude through all this is an indication of your maturity and your unconditional love for mommy.  Your irrepressible laughter during these tough moments and every moment in between is music to mommy’s ears.  Although mommy should be the person to comfort you when you are not feeling well; you undoubtedly took on this responsibility with open arms.  Your tender whole hearted hugs just takes mommy’s breath away and I whole heartedly love you.

You are perfection, an answer to mommy’s prayers.  You are the culmination of everything that is good and loved in this world.  How fortunate for me that I was chosen to be your mother!

Thank you, thank you, and thank you.

Still smiling after a visit with his doctor!

It's not Friday the 13th!

Ethan and I went to bed really early last night.  Marisa went to her girlfriend’s surprise sweet sixteen birthday party.  Van was working late and it was really a perfect night to snuggle with Ethan.  At first, I just wanted to put Ethan to bed since we’ve been out shopping all day.  I needed a moment to myself and saw a perfect opportunity to get Ethan to bed.  The next thing I knew, it was seven o’clock Sunday morning!

It was sunny and perfect after a gloomy Saturday.  Marisa was up early too so we thought that it would be nice to meet up with daddy for lunch.  Both of my kids were so excited to see daddy.  Marisa was excited that I was going to help color her hair.  I was extremely excited to see my children gleaming with happiness.  Since Van wanted to have a nice family dinner and was planning to leave work “on time”, we just took a quick bite for our late lunch.  We told daddy that we would shop around Kingstowne until he was ready to leave.

Our family outing turned out to be more than what we were expecting!  After returning Van to work, we wanted to hit TJ Maxx, Famous Footwear, Home Goods, and Ross.  We ended up at Ross first and were going to work our way up to TJ.  Marisa helped Ethan out of his car seat into his stroller.  I was putting something away in the trunk of our car when I felt and heard a loud thump.  At first, I thought someone hit our car when they were trying to squeeze into a parking space.  I walked around to where the sound resonated and behold, a lady had slammed her door into the side of our car.  She left a huge dent on the passenger side of the door, well, it was the back door.  I approached the lady and she exclaimed that her car door was too heavy when she swung it open.  I asked to get her information then headed towards the back of her car to get her license plate number.  She entered her car; my assumption was that she was getting her information ready.  Without warning, she slammed her car into me.  The impact caused me to jerk into a “c” shape ~ the top half of my body fell forward on the back of her car while the bottom half of my body went under her car.  Just imagine my children witnessing this traumatic incident!  I called 911 and asked my daughter to get a camera so that I could take a picture of the lady’s car.  After hitting me, the lady continued to stay in her car and screamed out for me to move.  Then she proceeded to scream at my daughter and claimed that she did not hit our car nor did she hit me.  While I was on the phone with the dispatcher, I told my daughter to stay away from this lunatic since I did not know what she was capable of.  She jumped into her car and proceeded to leave but I stayed behind her car to block her.  Within minutes, Officer Kelley arrived.  I was on my way to greet the officer when lady saw an opportunity to escape!  She drove off!  It wasn’t very smart of her because the police gave chase and brought her back to the scene of the accident.  Prior to the officer’s arrival, I asked this lady how she could be at this age and not want to take responsibilities for her actions.  What has this world come to where no body wants to be held accountable for their choices? 

The officer took my statement and then took the lady’s statement.  She denied everything.  The officer asked if our cars were moving when she hit my car.  I said no.  He then advised me that he would not be able to give her a citation since it was not considered a moving violation.  Then I told the officer that when she struck me, what would that be considered?  He approached the lady, who continued to stay in her car.  She claimed that she did not see me.  The officer asked if I needed to be taken to the hospital.  I was more concern for my children but I also did not want to make a mistake and not get myself checked.  I said yes and within seconds, a fire truck and the ambulance arrived.  The firemen approached the lady and asked if she needed to be taken to the hospital but I said, “Excuse me; it is I who was struck by this lady”.  Marisa had to run to the bathroom and Ethan was in his stroller listening to music.  Thank goodness that he did not fuss and I was so proud of my daughter for being such a grown up and was there for her brother.

I wish that I was able to get information for the gentleman that saw everything, but when the officer arrived at the Springfield Heathplex, he said that I did not need a witness.  He said that she finally admitted that she hit me.  He gave her a citation and she is at fault.  He also said that she is from Mexico visiting her daughter who lives in Annandale and the car that she was driving was a rental.  He went even further to say that this lady was crazy, I don’t know if he was suppose to tell me that, but I figured that as much because it just did not make any sense.  Why would you try to escape knowing that the police was within a foot of your car?  My daughter asked why this lady thought that she was in the right especially when it is common sense that you have to look both ways and behind while backing a car out of any place!

What a day!  I ended up with no broken bones but a bruised left hand, arm, elbow and wrist.  My right foot has a small fracture but nothing major that would require surgery.  I now have a slight headache, tender shoulders, stiff ring finger, painful left arm and my knees and body are a bit sore.  It was such an ordeal for my kids, but my little angels are now safe and sound asleep.  Thank God that my children were not harmed.  Thank God that this loony was not driving so fast that she would have dragged my body to no limits.  Thank God that I’m breathing although I was pretty shaken up to have my children experience this horrific side of a human behavior.  Marisa said that it was a good thing for this lady that she was not old enough to stand up to her.  I told my daughter that she did stand up to her because she remained calmed and collective and not let this lady swayed her to do anything rash.  This is a sign of maturity and this is a sign that doing what is right will always stand up to anything.  I am a proud mother, indeed!

Bubbles and more bubbles

"Ba-Ba", Priceless

A glimpse of what pure bliss looks like!

 Go Ethan Go!

 Having fun with cousin Elise.

  How fortunate I am to be so smitten by my Ethan!

Cross our fingers and our toes

Ethan is back at school!  It was really difficult for me to send Ethan to school because I despise it so much when my baby is sick.  Seeing my baby suffers and not having the ability to help him just makes me feel so helpless.  But, Ethan is such a fighter and has taught me to have patience ~ state of endurance under difficult circumstances, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation or pain.  Oh how fortunate I am to have this little angel. 

My heart felt like it has wings when I saw Ethan's face gleaming as we approached the front steps of his school.  Ethan was so excited that he lost his right shoe while prancing to his room.  If Ethan could have his way, he would go barefoot.  I would not go as far as to say that he refuses to wear shoes, because he loves to put mine, Marisa’s and dad’s.  Keeping shoes on when mommy wants Ethan to do so is a huge task but when Ethan does it on his own, he’s happy as a clam.  I guess he is very Asian in this way because it is our custom that we take off our shoes when entering our home or the homes of others.

Watching my son shine while waltzing through the hallway brought tears to my eyes.  My thought for that moment was, "WOW, I wish that all kids were like my angel...full of life, full of love, full of wonder, full of joy, full of patience, full of forgiveness, and full of happiness!"  What a blessing Ethan is in my life.  It was an overwhelming feeling of great pride when Ethan glided through the hallway like he was floating in the heavens saying “HI” and sharing his huge smile with everyone.  No mothers could be more proud than I was at that moment.  Thank you for allowing me to be of a great witness to Ethan’s journey and continued miracle.

Let's try again

Ethan's first day back to school after a long needed rest.  Now, mommy can have her long needed rest too!  How can I rest when at times I can hear Ethan call for me?  No, I'm not going crazy.  I miss my little man running around the house and calling for me every possible chance.  I miss seeing his glistering eyes and gleaming smiles.  I miss his laughter and him asking for "BOB BOB" and "BELL" in such an innocent tone.  I’m going to miss seeing/hearing Ethan say another amazing word out of the blue and then celebrating with him like crazy when he repeats the word.  Like “BAG” and “SHOES” and “FEET” and “UN, TWO, TREE, ORR, IVE” and “CHEESE” and “BABY”.  Oh yes, Ethan loves calling his big sister “BABY” since this seems to get her attention more so than “SA SA”.

We've been so fortunate to have Ethan's teacher come to our home to teach him while he was home-bound.  It's been nice for the past two months, actually, to have a one-on-one session with his teacher.  I was most amazed that Ethan sat at the kitchen table for one whole hour with his teacher.  It's difficult to have Ethan sit still for longer than half an hour, with the exception of watching Spongebob.

My TO DO list includes but not limited to:

1.   laundry ~ from eight this morning until now, I've been able to do four loads...GO MOM!

2.  clean up the living room ~ putting away Ethan's toys, blankets, and shoes...until my helper return home and undo what I've just put away.

3.  watched the news about the most historic event - the death of the monster who was responsible for 9/11.

4.  make an appointment to take our car in for an oil change, minor tune ups, replace light bulbs and an inspection.

5.  need to make it to Costco to print over 1,000 random pictures.  Oh yes, my sister-in-law asked if I’ve gotten enough pictures of Ethan…not nearly enough, I don’t believe.  I still have to print pictures from Ethan’s birth!  I’ve been organizing and putting pictures in the albums but have not put together a complete set because I need to get some more albums from Costco.

6.  organized some of my favorite pictures of my baby boy for his scrapbook.  I really need to complete this project!

Oh look, it’s eleven fifteen so I need to get ready to pick Ethan up from the bus stop.  We’re heading done to Lorton to drop off the car and then to finish up with helping my sister-in-law move.