White on Rice

New Family Website

2009-12-08T13:59:00.001-08:00

Hi Family and Friends, My brother in law Eric ROCKS!!! For my birthday he put together a new family website for us Wakayama's. (Heads up, it's still a bit under construction as I learn the new tricks! i.e. rotate pics, insert picture into header,etc.)

I will no longer be posting here, but on our new website-

http://thewakayamafamily.com/

Please follow me over there! :)

FYI. The first time you comment, I will have to "approve" your comment, but from then on it's free reign!

THANKS ERIC!!!
xoxo.

2 babies down, many more to go! :)

2009-11-22T20:32:00.000-08:00

Many of my good girlfriends have been hard at work lately... Remember seeing several of my friends pregnant? Well... it started out with 5 ... and now there's about 7 or 8, total. Out of the first batch, 2 have crossed over to the other side! Meaning: they no longer waddle, they can indulge in sushi and soft cheeses, sleep on their back, are losing weight not gaining, etc... On the flip side they are nursing a cute baby every 2 to 3 hours, cleaning up blow outs, sleep-deprived, and what I've noticed... they are GLOWING with a new LOVE! They make me so excited to welcome Scarlett into our family!

Maressa was first up to bat! She had an amazing natural birth at a Birth Center with all her close girlfriends. :) Such a wonderful privilege to be by her side! She was amazing!

Please meet her sweetie, Savannah Rain Conover...Next up... Kimmy Kim! 10 days overdue, she wins the "Bigger n' Better" award! Yesiree, she pushed out a 10lb 3oz baby!!! 23 3/4 inches.

Introducing their little Defensive Back, Joshua Joseph Nguyen... So amazed at my friends!! Next up, Jessica. She's being induced this Wednesday! And then Heidi is right around the corner on or around December 15th! All these girlfriends and babies are gifts from God! We have so much to be thankful for this THANKSGIVING!! xoxo.

Happiest Place on Earth

2009-11-21T22:42:00.000-08:00

Nixon's 1st trip to see Mickey. Thank you to Elissa who hooked us up and got us in for FREE!!! and thanks to the Owen's for a wonderful day! It wouldn't have been as fun without you guys!

It was the first day of Christmas at Disney!
Gorgeous decorations! It even "snowed" at night before we left. :)

We want to go back again! :)

xoxo.

Potty Boot Camp

2009-11-09T15:21:00.000-08:00

I have been hesitant to blog about my potty training experience with Nixon because I didn't want to jynx it! :) Now that we have gone a whole week (in kid world (esp. regarding pee-pee) 7 days is a LIFE TIME!!!) without any accidents, I am ready to declare that NIXON IS OUT OF DIAPERS and IN BIG BOY UNDIES!!! Woo hoo! Oh my goodness, I think this was one of my toughest challenges yet as a Mommy!

Here are some of the STATS on his potty training:
(He is going to LOVE this blog entry when he's older!)

*Start date: Monday Oct 26th (5 accidents), lots of crying (i joined him by the end of the afternoon!)
*Potty Training Type: "Hold-Out-Kid." Less accidents. But holding out for up to 3.5hours at a time to go pee, just because he didn't want to face reality. Holding his #2 for up to 3 days, til he made his tummy hurt! I hate to admit this, but he gets this from my side of the family. (aah ahh choooRYANooo! oh, excuse me! allergies!)
*How long did we stay home? 3 days
*His Fave Big Boy Undies: Paul Frank Monkey Undies & Spiderman
*Potty Incentives that worked: Sugarless Gum and Coins$
*How many times we almost quit: 4
*When I knew he had it: Nov. 1st (my birthday!)
*Big Supporters: Daddy, Mimi, and Papa* (On Day 5, M&P took him overnight and continued the training. I think this change-up did WONDERS! New Trainers, New setting. :)
*First public bathroom he used: Henry's
*Crazyiest place he's gone: Post Office & Car Wash w/Daddy

Win-Win Situation

He got a workbench from Grandma

I got a live-in Toilet Scrubber!

I'm so thankful we survived Potty Boot Camp!
xoxo.

Early Christmas Gift

2009-11-07T22:35:00.000-08:00

Christmas not only came early to Costco and Fashion Valley Mall (Helloooo! Santa's little cottage is already out!!! Right after Halloween! I thought the rule was AFTER Thanksgiving! I LOVE Christmas, but really?), it has also come early for Nixon. Yoichi and I decided for Christmas this year, instead of buy Nixon a bunch of toys, we would give Nixon a gift in the form of a music class. He LOVES music, instruments, rhythm and beats. We also thought it would be really special to have one more Mommy and Son activity before Scarlett arrives. So, we forked out the money and decided this would be our Christmas gift to him.

After the first 10min of the first class I realized it truly is the BEST gift we could've given him (and me!) He LOVES everything about his music class; his Teacher Ms. Crystal, the instruments he gets to play, the songs they sing, and did I mention his teacher! Yes, he adores her! It's crazy for me to see him become the helper in class and talk about Ms. Crystal and her "pretty voice."

The first week of class landed on Oct 30th, so the kids were invited to wear their Halloween costumes.

Nix sitting by Ms. Crystal and following her directions to the "T."

Spending time with Nixon in this way has really been a gift!
I'm so glad we got to unwrap his Christmas gift a little early this year! ;)
xo.

Halloween and Turning Thirty-Two!

2009-11-02T07:41:00.001-08:00

Last Thursday the Owen's had us over to make Fall Cookies! We're talkin' homemade dough, the perfect shade of Winston orange frosting, and sprinkles! Rox only knows how to go over the top! :)

This pic was taken BEFORE he pee'd all over the chair! Awesome, Nix! He must've got confused when I told him to put "sprinkles" on the COOKIES!!!

Finished product. Mm,mm! Didn't they do a super job decorating?

Friday came and Yoichi kicked off the weekend with a surprise get-away for my Birthday! He took 1/2 of Friday off, my parents came and picked up Nixon, and we drove off just the two of us! (Well, we did make a comment that Lolo was lucky to stick around on our adventure! :)

I had no idea where we were going until I got my Birthday envelope in the car!

1st leg of the journey was a 2 hour drive up North. We didn't hit ANY traffic-- talk about God hooking us up! Who drives on the 5 and 405, on a Friday, and doesn't hit traffic? I loved our talking time! Connecting means so much to me. No interruptions!

Yo had hotel reservations for us at an Ocean View room off of the Santa Monica Pier. We walked around 3rd and Promenade and found a yummy Crepe Cafe for dinner. (*Biola friends, this is the first time I re-visited the scene where I got my TERRIBLE Jennifer Aniston WANNA-BE short haircut, from Freshmen year! Oh the tragedy! Surprisingly the Vidal Sassoon School of Training was GONE!!! Thank God! haha.)

View from our room. Ahhhh!!!

The surprises kept coming-- next stop: Cirque de Soleil's Kooza! This was MY FAVORITE circus show so far (and we've seen 5 of the other ones)!

Under the big top!

We're lucky they didn't confiscate my camera! No Flash photography under the Big Top! Oops!

We woke up Saturday and hit the town hunting for some pancakes! Driving thru Westwood and Hollywood, we drove past the So You Think You Can Dance studios. I was looking for celebrities, like TMZ.... no such luck! My good friend Hallie who lives in LA, told us of an AWESOME breakfast stop in Westwood, John O Groats! Incredible pancakes, crunchy bacon!

Our last stop, Beverly Center Macy's. My only true bday request was NEW wrinkle cream. Hey, when you're 32 you have your priorities! I got my magic cream! :) What more can I ask for? BEST BIRTHDAY EVER!

We got home, just in time for Halloween with Nixon!

Our little monkey

His buddies @ Trunk or Treat/Faith Chapel Church

Trick-or-Treat!

This ol' lady better sign-off for now!
xo.

Fun Fall Weekend

2009-10-25T20:07:00.000-07:00

Friday Night...

We had a Batman Birthday Party @ Round Table Pizza for my brother this weekend. Round table? Really? Yep! It was his request! :) If you grew up in Spring Valley, you know that RT has the best pizza... we grew up with it in our blood. :) You can take a kiddo outta Spring Valley, but you can't take the Spring Valley outta' the kid! :) His girlfriend Erin decorated with the Batman theme. It looked so awesome! Strangers walked by our party room and wished Nixon a "Happy Birthday" because they assumed the Batman theme was for him! hahaa! :)

Nix's official Batman move!

I surprised Ryan with some of our childhood bestfriends. Melissa and Kristen. :) We learned to ride bikes with these girls and their brothers. So many great memories with the Sano's and Von Gottberg's.

On Saturday... we hit up Peterson's Donut Corner on the way up to Bates Nut Farm;
I have never seen such big and yummy donuts!!! Sinful! :)

80 degrees at the Pumpkin Patch doesn't seem right!

Caleb, Abbey, Ethan, Trey, Bella, Nix, Aiden
*Graham was on the other side of the patch

The FUN kept on going, Saturday night we celebrated Aiden's 3rd Bday...

Pumpkin Carving
Yummy pizza and cupcakes!
The Cute Hostess with her 3 year old!
and the crazyiest dog-pile on Aiden's Daddy, Mark.

the sweetest treats of the night... the Mezzadri Twins!
So adorable! and Thanks to them, Scarlett has a full closet of clothes passed down!

All fun things must come to an end! Today (Sunday) Nix and I woke up with runny noses and congestion! Too much fun in one weekend! You'll find us at home the next couple of days taking it easy.

Stay tuned.
You're going to LOVE Nix's Halloween Costume!
His GREAT Aunt Cathy sent us the perfect costume!
xo.

2009-10-16T21:55:00.000-07:00

The View from here is AMAZING!
Thanks be to God!
xoxo.

My Dad's Bday

2009-10-12T13:21:00.001-07:00

October is a great month! The weather grows cooler and my Dad and brother grow O-L-D-E-R! :) Yesterday, my Dad turned 61! We started off with dinner at a Japanese restaurant.

Intrigued by the foam on my dad's "apple juice."

"Mimi, you're a camel!"

People say they look alike. They def. act alike! Trouble-makers! :)

xoxo.

i HAD to include this picture, it makes me laugh SOOOO hard! I can't think of the perfect caption... but something from an Austin Powers movie, maybe?? :)

yet another FULL expression from my Dad! :)
you know he was having a blast!

The Baker and her Taste-Tester :)

The double-layer cake, and Nix in a "sugar-coma" in the background.

Sukiyaki

2009-10-09T20:58:00.000-07:00

When the temps fall below 75 in SD, Fall has arrived! A perfect time to eat Sukiyaki or "hot pot." Yo and I both grew up eating hot pot when we were younger, and last year my Mom gave me my very own hot pot so we could enjoy it at the Wakayama dinner table. This week was the first "chilly" week and we kicked off this "warm eating" at Yoichi's Mom's house. Soooo yummy!

Uncle Eric, Gramma Leiko, Nix, Yoichi

If you've never had it, come by this Winter and we'll cook up some yummy noodles, meat, tofu, and veggies together! We'll keep ya warm! :)

My Lolo & Thank God for photoshop! :)

2009-10-07T22:41:00.001-07:00

Don't let this photo deceive you... i have TONS of stretchmarks on my tummy. Thank you Dee for helpin' a sista' out! :)

Hi Friends, some of you asked to see more pics from my maternity photoshoot with Missi and AnnaDee. Please forgive this vain blog-entry, as this post is pretty much all about me and Lolo. Dee sent me some of the pics today, and it made me so excited to see myself with Lolo. It was so fun! These girls talk a different language! Photo-jargon is way over my head! :) They're amazing! :) I definitely could use some hints on how to be more comfy and natural in front of the camera, (where was Tyra when I needed her?! haha) but spending time with these ladies was such a blast! :) Thank you Missi and Dee, for making Lolo and I feel like Hollywood! :)

Prayers Answered!!!

2009-10-04T21:31:00.000-07:00

The subchorionic hemmorhage (aka. blood clot) is GONE!!!
The Technician did an ultrasound last week, and couldn't find it!!!
Scarlett is swimming in cozy safe waters!
Thank you Lord for the continuous miracles!
I'm still reflecting on this crazy-wonderful journey!

One thing is... I'm really glad I journaled this last year. I have looked back to see God's handprints in every moment of this gift He has given us. Sometimes we think we're alone, but I definitely KNOW that Yoichi and I have been taken care of this whole time! Every step of the way!

Thank you SO MUCH for praying and following along!

I hope I haven't used up ALL my miracles for this year! :)
Because I could really use a miracle in the delivery room! haaa!

(*the new trend among some of my prego girlfriends is to go "natural" with no drugs! i know!!?!?! What are they thinking?! With my luck, the epidural won't work and I'll be forced to push her out naturally! Yikes! I'm sensing another prayer request coming up! hee,hee!)

Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Fundraiser

2009-10-01T13:10:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday night, my whole family went out to support Erin (and my brother Ryan) at an event they hosted to raise money for Breast Cancer. WOW! What a party! The time, skills, resources, creativity they put into this event was I-N-C-R-E-D-I-B-L-E! They truly created an atmosphere of "giving" for a great cause. It really is admirable when you see people working hard to help others. I can see how important raising awareness and funds is to them... and really, to all of us! Praying for a CURE!

Here is lucky Nix with the Hostess, Erin. :)

Here's a picture without his "fake" smile. :)

Brian Christie, from KUSI News was the MC

Nixon was the tiki-torch observer :)

But his MAIN job was playing with the band! :) They had an extra cajon (the red boxdrum) they put up front for Nixon to play. Every time the band went up to play another set, you betcha', Nix would stop what he was doing (even if it meant giving up his CHOCOLATE CUPCAKE!!!) to join the guys up front! :) Believe it or not, Nixon actually has rhythm! You should check out the music: Mario Olivares. This week Mario stopped by my dad's office and brought the cajon Nixon was playing with, and wants Nixon to have it! That means, music lessons here we come! :)

Not only was it a fun night, but it was a success! They raised over 7,700$ dollars! Stay tuned, Erin's work is not over. She will be walking 60miles, the weekend of Nov. 20-22nd, to honor those we have lost to Breast Cancer, and to support Breast Health.

Blackhawk Down

2009-09-24T15:06:00.000-07:00

Last night we heard what sounded like a helicopter landing on our roof. Ghetto-copter in Point Loma? Luckily not! :) Yo, Nix, and I went running outside, and we followed the loud copter noise to the new building behind our house. Along the way we bumped into several of our neighbors who were curious too! Block Party! :) Come to find out this Blackhawk helicopter was helping move the rest of the furniture, a/c unit, a large vault, etc into the new building, thru the roof! Our next door neighbor who is in the military said it's cheaper and easier to use a helicopter, rather than a crane to move those heavy items. Hmm... interesting! Reminds me of the Bible story of the man who wanted to be healed by Jesus, and his friends lowered him thru the roof! :)

Nix loved it! We all did!

Doesn't get much more exciting than that around here! :)

"Horsie!"

2009-09-20T21:20:00.000-07:00

Before you call CPS, let me explain this picture... :)
Nixon is ALL INTO playing, wrestling, and doing everything Daddy does! When Daddy comes home, I'm pretty much chopped-liver! Nixon loves riding "horsie" on Daddy... well, yesterday Nixon insisted that Daddy ride "horsie" on Nixon. Yo looked at me with questioning eyes, and I said, "Sure, do it. But PRETEND, hon!!" haha. Nix was so proud that Daddy was "riding" on him.

Does anyone know how we can stop time?? I absolutely LOVE this age Nix is at... does he really have to grow up!?

My Tuesday Night Blessings*

2009-09-19T22:52:00.000-07:00

Every other Tuesday night you can find us girls at Starbucks, sipping yummyness, sharing prayer requests and praises, and discussing our current book. This last Friday Night, we celebrated our friendships, freedom!!!!, and the babies that are on the way! Maressa is due in 3 weeks, which will then kick off the domino-effect of baby arrivals... so we took this time to eat, shop, and enjoy some good conversation before life changes once again!

Maressa, 37 weeks; Heidi, 29 weeks, Me, 25 weeks

Here's Heidi peeking! I actually think my belly button was poking her in the back... :) CRAZY!

*on a side note: our "sister group" that meets, are ALL blondes! :)

24 weeks

2009-09-18T23:02:00.000-07:00

24 weeks

outie!

Nix and his Lolo :)
xo.

I have so much to be thankful for! I'm posting these because I'm so happy to be pregnant! Thank you Lord for your perfect timing! I can't help but show off my little girl! Please bear with me. :)

Baby Girl has a name....

2009-09-15T23:26:00.000-07:00

Scarlett Lois Wakayama

We have searched high and low! Two totally opposite styles and preferences for names, and we finally have come to an agreement! And we both truly love the name we chose! Hope you do too! If not, say it about 50x and then it will stick! :) *thank you to brittany and others who gave us some GREAT ideas! it helped narrow things down. there are SO many cute baby girl names out there!

The story behind the name...
Yoichi and I went to Borders on a date night a month ago and searched thru baby book names. We both had a 3X5 card and wrote down names that we liked, separately. Yoichi came back with a list of 12 names, I had 3! Of Yo's 12, Scarlett was one of them. I didn't necessarily like the name Scarlett at first. Let's be honest, I didn't like any of the names Yo chose! haha.(and vice-versa) Back to the drawing board! 2 weeks later we were at Ocean Beach after dinner. Nix, Yoichi and I were jumping over waves, doing the "ocean dance"--- splashing around and I looked at Yoichi and said, "I can't get the name Scarlett out of my head today." He was shocked. Then I'm pretty sure 2 seconds later he said, "I picked that name!" haha. As if I was taking away his credit for naming the baby. 2 crashing waves later I found myself playing in the sand and I wrote Nixon and Scarlett's name in the wet sand. I have to admit from then on we both have grown to love this name for our little girl. In between these 2 weeks, we weren't 100% on the name Scarlett, but we have always been 100% on her middle name, Lois. Lois is my Grandma's name, and she has always had a special place in my life. I truly believe because of her and my Grandpa's faith in God I am a believer today. So during "limbo" time of confirming that Scarlett was THEE name, we started calling her "Lolo." You might here us refer to her as Lolo, a nickname that Nix really likes too! :)

Last but not least, we can't help but chuckle (and shudder with fear) at the meaning of her name. Scarlett means "red" and "passionate." Lois means "fierce warrior." Hmm... Passionate Fierce Warrior! Can you see why we're a bit scared!?

My son pulled the "Jesus card" on me!

2009-09-04T22:23:00.000-07:00

Funny story.

This week Nix was sitting on the couch while I was cooking dinner. I looked over and he was playing with something he shouldn't have been. So I warned him, he looked at me, pretended to put it back, and then just looked at me and continued to play with the non-toy... Well, as I started to head over his way with that "I'm serious, Mister, now you're in trouble" look, NO JOKE--- he started singing "Jesus loves me (this i know, for the Bible tells me so....)". And here's the kicker-- he was looking me directly in the eyes, and he changed the words to "Jesus loves YOU" and as I sped over to him he started singing the song faster and faster and faster.. as if he might dodge being in trouble by completing the whole song-- that I would be struck with conviction right there and right then! :)

Yes Nixon, Jesus loves me and YOU! and that's why He told Mommy's and Daddy's to train up their kids in the way of the Lord... this includes the D-word. D-I-S-C-I-P-L-I-N-E.

"Who me?"
xoxo.

My Sweet Son of a gun!

2009-08-28T16:52:00.000-07:00

Ok, pardon me... it could be the hormones... but I also think it's the reality sinking in that our family of 3 is going to be changing. A couple weeks ago, I doubted I could love the next baby as much as I love Nixon. But because of all of God's AWESOME miracles with her, I can't help but love her to pieces, the true gift she is to us! Now my emotional plight is that I fear my special relationship with Nix will drastically change; that he'll be scarred for life, and that I will miss him terribly as I get busy with nursing a baby, lack of sleep, him going to pre-school, etc. Basically, in my mind I will never see him again! I love my time with my son! The last 2 1/2 years we have been each other's shadow. I guess I'm feeling insecure with how I will be as a Mommy of two. Yo teases me that the first few of months of our baby girl's life, that Nix will be solely his and that the little baby will be mine. Sad! I already miss my Nixon! I'm a mess! How do you mommy's of two or more do it???

Belly Measurements

2009-08-20T20:15:00.001-07:00

Nixon- 2 years, 6 mo.

Baby Girl: 20 weeks

Sleepless in San Diego

2009-08-19T04:45:00.000-07:00

Ok, so my new thing lately has been waking up at 4am, WIDE AWAKE. The routine has been, lay there.... lay there.... pretend to be sleeping....listen to Yoichi's peaceful slumber.... lay there.... grow a little jealous.... lay there.....start counting backwards.... after going from 100 to 0 a couple times, and still being wide awake... I've turned to journaling, facebook, sitting up in bed alone, late night tv shows (do not waste your time watching Jimmy Fallon's show! Poor guy, I feel bad for him!), and identifying all the different noises in my neighborhood (i.e. one of our neighbors smoke alarms is running low on battery, it beeps every 30sec.- talk about Chinese torture!)

Anyway, all this to say... anyone else up at 4am that wants to party!? haha. Kidding.

I need some ideas... warm milk? sleeping pills? oh wait, that's too Michael Jackson-ish. Scary!

The book I'm reading, "God works the Nightshift" advises that sometimes God wakes us up in the middle of the night to help work the nighshift, via praying for others and myself. Maybe I'll try that next time... seeing who God brings to mind to pray for... besides just praying to Jesus to help me sleep! :)

Shout out if ya need some extra prayer! I'll let the Big Guy know at my next graveyard shift! zzzzz.

"You have a lil' somethin' on your face..."

2009-08-18T13:15:00.000-07:00

"Where? Right here?"

For a kid who's relatively a clean-freak, he sure doesn't mind having chocolate all over his face and mouth!

Then again, who does?! :)

Now you see em', Now you don't!

2009-08-13T22:20:00.000-07:00

Nixon and (his main squeeze) Tabitha

They play so well together! I don't think they fought once. They willingly share toys with each other! What two-year olds do that???

Tabby was taking pics of us taking pics of them! :)

These two make me smile!
I'm glad we're all friends.
xo.

Gluttony and elastic pants...

2009-08-11T14:47:00.000-07:00

Meet our Buffet Buddies. We are a group of friends seriously committed to good FREE food. We have searched high and low for all types of free buffets in San Diego, and about once a month we partake! This month was extra special because it marked our 1 Year Anniversary of being an actual Buffet Club. We started at Valley View last year for the Free Membership Meal... and here we are again, taking advantage of the FREE Bday Meal- celebrating Laurel, Yo, and Pat's bday.

Laurel's specialty- sweet potatoe fries & collared greens

Emir's plateS are always packed with protein!

I think Kim goes just for the dessert buffet! :)

Pat- Lobster and Crab legs all the way!

I'm all about the prime rib!

Yoichi- Surf n' Turf, baby!

The Buffet Buddies highly suggest and endorse Valley View Buffet!
6 bellies up!
xoxo.

I have so much to be thankful for...

2009-08-06T22:46:00.000-07:00

Since last Tuesday's miracles, I have been overwhelmed with gratitude! I can't explain it! I know I sound so dramatic, but really the sky seems blu-er, I can hear the birds chirping again, and you know I'm really on a high when crazy drivers cut me off on the freeway, and I don't even sin! :) haa! The last few months (well, if we're really counting, the last 15months) have taken me on a journey where I kinda always felt like a cloud was looming over me . I know this life wasn't promised to us to be easy, and there will always be more trials around the corner... but today, I'm still rejoicing! I'm so grateful! You know me, I'm such a "list" girl... my most recent jounral entries have just been lists. Lists and lists of things I'm thankful for. Like this one today...

Today I'm so thankful for:
* my husband letting me sleep in
* the 4 new boxes of cereal I had to choose from (to mix) for b-fast
* my sweet son who is always asking "why, mommy?"
* children's ibuprofen that zaps my son's high fever away every 5 hours
* our humidifier (again helping bring relief to Nixon)
* free kids movies from the library
* my hair fits in a ponytail now!
* my parents who left work for a few hours to watch Nix so I could get away for my monthly meeting with other Mommy's.
* the snuggles I get on "sick" days
* our Pastor's wife who shared her touching story on God's faithfulness
* laughing and chatting with good girlfriends over donuts.
* the bean tostada my husband bought me just because I was craving it!
* my favorite dancer winning the dance show tonight!
* the little kicks and punches I am starting to feel more regularly from our baby girl

ok... this list could go on and on!

When the next big or little storm hits, instead of drowning... I want to make lists of Thanksgiving to remind me of how much I have to be thankful for! Oh wait, I just remembered another thing WE ALL can be thankful for... TOMORROW IS FRIDAY!!! Whoop, whoop!! Let's get our party on! :)

Birthday Babe! :)

2009-07-31T07:35:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday, Yoichi!!

33 reasons I love Yo-dawg:

1. He fears God! 2. He loves me unconditionally, everyday. 3. He is a wonderful Daddy! 4. He holds my hand so securely during trials! 5. He is a prayer warrior. 6. He reads the Word everyday! 7. He is one disciplined man! 8. He teaches Nixon to be a gentleman.(i.e. on his own, Nixon compliments me on how I look, and about the meals I prepare) 9. He surprises me with treats! 10. He has great ideas! 11. He can find amazing deals! $$ 12. He is a good steward of our money.

13. He doesn't complain about his work... actually about anything! 14. I admire his good work ethic (he has 3 jobs!!and seriously he never complains!) 15. SOOOOO creative! Have you ever seen the cards he MAKES me by hand?? Move over Hallmark! 16. He is hands-on with Nixon; wrestling, tickling, snuggling, sword-making, bathing, special outings. 17. He's super excited about having a girl and taking her on dates! He even brought HER home flowers yesteday! 18. He's not a worrier! (thank God! b/c with my worrying... we'd be ALL gray hairs by now!)

19. He likes to take action! 20. He provides for our family. 21. He takes care of his body! (how many 33 yr old men do you know have a six pack?) 22. He is very budgeted with our money, but doesn't think twice about SPOILING me or Nixon. 23. He comes home happy to see us everyday! 24. He'd rather buy my favorite dessert and make me happy, than one he likes! 25. He is very discerning when making decisions. 26.He doesn't talk to be heard, he speaks when he has something to say. 27. His heart is for worship. 28. I admire his ability to discipline Nixon, yet have Nixon's full love and respect. 29. He'd rather play a board game or cards with me, than watch TV. 30. He likes to hear about my day. 31. He hates snuggling, but he does it anyway because I like it! haaa! 32. He explains things really well-- how car parts work, shortcuts on the computer, sports strategy, things in the Bible I don't understand. I love that Mr. Teacher in him! and #33. I love the way he is secure and confident, not caring what other people think, only what our Father in heaven thinks. :) I love my old man! xoxo.

Baby Girl <3

2009-07-30T08:50:00.000-07:00

Here SHE is a picture of her laying down, profile-view. 17weeks.
She already seems to have inherited my bloated tummy!
She must've just eaten! :)

*just so you know, i still can't believe we're having a GIRL, i just had to re-read this post and edit out all the "it's" and replace it with "SHE."

Thanksgiving in July :)

2009-07-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

Here is a copy of an email I sent out the day of our Level 2 Ultrasound.

Dear Prayer Warriors!

I have learned a new lesson today... God loves me more than I knew and WAY MORE than I could imagine!!!

We had our in-depth ultrasound today at the Perinatal Center. Thank you so much for those of you who prayed and fasted. It means the world to us to have our family in Christ supporting us and carrying us thru all the emotions and scary parts of this ride.

Today was so HUGE for us!

Here's how things went, if you want to know...
We met with a Genetic Counselor for a 1/2 hour. He went over all the possible birth defects and anomalies our baby could have. He warned us of what we would see, etc. Then he sent us back to the waiting room where we waited for almost 2 hours!!! Imagine me....my mind racing with all the genetic info, my heart pounding, and poor Yo trying to calm me down... :) Lots of prayer, Bible verses, and a cobb salad helped us through the time. We were blessed and got a very wonderful ultrasound technician who was gentle with me and scanned EVERY SINGLE body part of our baby.... Here's where the praises came... she didn't find what they were looking for! No spina bifuda, no neural tube defects,... She ruled out any of the birth defects that they thought they would see!!! I was seriously having convulsions on the table... Yo had to keep me pinned down! :) The funny thing is thru almost all of the scanning she kept calling the baby a boy. "He." So I figured she must've snuck a peek and that this was the sex. We all started referring him to he, and then she asked us, "Oh, do you guys know the sex?" Our reply, "No. Do you?" She got the baby in position and announced, "It's a GIRL!" WHAT??? As if tears weren't already flowing... the thought of Yoichi being the Daddy of a precious little asian baby girl was just the added blessing to this whole miracle!!!

Friends, things could've turned out so differently! We know that, and really I was preparing myself for a different reality. What makes me cry the most in this whole sitch is that God chose to bless us today! We totally didn't do anything to deserve this. I sometimes have a whacky view of how God works... why would He bless me? why would He choose to give us a happy ending?? Today He blessed us so that we can tell others of HOW AWESOME HE WORKS! and because He loves me! :)

All I know is that YES we are dancing around today with joy, but i do not want to forget this journey God has taken us on. I want to remain on my knees with such gratefulness.

We are having a Praise & Worship time at our home tonight. 7-8pm.
Please join us if you don't have plans!! Kids welcome!

Thank you again for loving us!
Yoichi, Tira, Nixon, and Baby Girl
******************************************************************************************

What a day of THANKSGIVING!!
We are still in shock!
It's so wonderful to replace my prayers and concerns with PRAISE!!
Thank you for experiencing this miracle with us!
xoxo.

Onomatopoeia

2009-07-23T18:54:00.000-07:00

Thank you Lord for the laughter you are providing in our home these days! :)

We are teaching Nixon Mimi and Papa's REAL names.
Today when I asked Nixon, "What's Mimi's name?"
He proudly replied, "Ding Dong!"

HAHAHAAA!!!

FYI: My mom's Chinese name is "Ying" (aka "Ying Ying").

Ding-Dong, that's close!
See, he wasn't THAT FAR off!

and if you know my Mom... Ding Dong totally fits!!! hahaa.
Love you MIMI! :)

(btw. Nixon's "real" name for Papa is "Jimbo!" ask him next time you see him!)

Ultrasound Technician

2009-07-20T13:08:00.000-07:00

Me: "Nixon, what are you drawing?"
Nixon: "Baby, in Mommy's tummy."
"See! Baby, right here!"

Totally, Nix! I see it!
(i also see he has MY art skills and not his Daddy's!)

Here's the most recent "sonogram" of our baby, courtesy of Big Bro Nixon.

Boy or Girl? :)
xoxo.

Happy Friday! :)

2009-07-16T23:20:00.000-07:00

Thanks for praying for us!
xoxo.

WARNING: ANOTHER BIG BLOG ENTRY!

2009-07-15T14:43:00.000-07:00

*due to life's circumstances, my blog has been over-taken by my heart. Please endure! :) Stand-by for lighter and funnier entries to come!

Hope Floats

2009-07-15T08:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a monumental day for me... I'd have to say it was my FAVORITE day of my pregnancy so far! As many of you know, this has been an uphill journey, on our knees, as we solely trust God to keep our baby healthy and strong. Yesterday was just what I needed! We had another ultrasound, and my subchorionic hemmorhage (aka. "ticking-time-bomb!") has shrunk down to half it's size!!!! That's amazing!!! I couldn't believe it! I'm so thankful to God! It could've done so many other things... but instead it's shrinking and the Ultrasound Technician looked me right in the trembling face and said- "You should be happy today!"

I am!

Thank you God for starting to heal my body and for protecting my baby.

Yesterday was the first time I could look at the little moving baby on the screen and allow myself to connect a little. "That's my baby inside of me! (tears strolling down my face) That's our new little life and Nix's little sibling!" I already LOVE this little baby don't get me wrong... but for the first time I felt love. I allowed myself to feel a tinge of excitement.

HOPE entered.

Which leads me to what I'm wrestling with now... HOPE. On Monday night we went to our Couples Study. Our good friend Mark led it, and the discussion danced around the topic of "HOPE." What is hope? He gave the definition: "it is expecting with certainty." Really? I thought it was "wishful thinking!" That's the kind of hope I usually have... "hoping for the best, expecting the worse!"

As a Christian woman, the day I gave my life to Christ I not only experienced a 'heart transplant,' but I also was more than grateful to receive the HOPE that when I die I will be in heaven! I believe this hope. I know without a shadow of a doubt that I will be in heaven. Today, when I think of my situation, hope takes on a different meaning. What should it look like ?

That same night when the Women laid their hands on me and the baby and prayed, these godly women were claiming God's promises for me and the baby. They prayed so confidently, asking God for a miracle. Wait, wait, wait... hold it!! That is HOPE! Hearing them talk, plead, and cry out to God on me and my baby's behalf blessed me to pieces. They have hope , more than I do! That's what I needed. I am desperately weak in this situation, but God is strong... and He has sent me friends and family that are also strong and can hold us up during this time.

I don't know the answer. I do know Romans 5: 3-5 says: "We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us-- they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens hope."

We are rejoicing today for the miracle we saw yesterday! I truly believe God is at work. Please keep us in your prayers. We have another ultrasound on Tues. July 28th where we will check the hemmorhage AND (our other whammy!) check to see if any damage was done to the baby while I was taking a high-dosage prescription drug while pregnant. This was BEFORE I knew I was pregnant. Yikes!

To some of you this may appear to be an alien...esp. knowing what Yoichi and I look like- haha! But if you look closely, it's Baby Wakayama. He/She is looking at us and waving (smaller circle on the right is the head).... How can I not love this precious gift God is making in my body?? How can I NOT have hope?

Brother... from a different Motha'! (not really)

2009-07-09T18:21:00.001-07:00

Lately I've been thinking about my Brother. I love this guy! :)
and it's also so special for me to see how much he loves my lil' guy!

This pic was taken on the 4th at the Baigent's Pool Party.

"Operator!"

2009-07-08T08:38:00.000-07:00

on a lighter note (regard. last blog entry)...

Us Wakayama's were driving around town this weekend and we were listening to Bible Kid Songs in the car. We put the back speakers on, so Nix can FULLY enjoy them, and we don't have to! haha.

The song "A little talk with Jesus makes everything alright, all right!" was playing. As a woman I can easily multi-task and discuss current events and family affairs with Yoichi in the front seat, while tracking with verse 2 and 3 of the kidsongs playing in the back... :) it's a talent us girls have!

The verse played one last time, and Yoichi said-
"What? A little CHOCOLATE and Jesus makes everything allright?"

I totally laughed!

and then Nix joined in and said,
"Chocolate juice? Want some please!"

My boys!!!
So much for worship while driving! :) I do like how Yoichi was thinking! He might be onto something! Chocolate and Jesus does make everything alright! ;)

Webster's Definition

2009-07-06T16:31:00.000-07:00

Have you ever known someone who works the graveyard shift? When I was a wee-little-one (ok, choke, choke... a freshman in highschool!) one of my Youth Group counselors told me he worked the "graveyard shift" and wouldn't be able to go on the up-coming all-nighter. I remember chillz went up my spine as I pictured him walking up and down the dark eerie paths of burial sites, upon burial sites of dead people. I wondered to myself if he sometimes had to help shovel some of the dirt that was maybe left undone from a burial. Eeeks! Ghosts, spirits, spookyness...yikes!! I looked so differently at him, until I learned the true definition of "graveyard shift." Oh how embarassing!! If only my parents hadn't sheltered me so much... you would DIE if you knew how long I believed in Santa Claus! DIE!! You might even see a picture of me in Guinness World Records!

Well, I'm now in my 30's and I'm learning yet another whole new definition about "night-shifts," that has blessed my soul... and instead of scaring me like it did before, it has removed my fear and trembling.

As many of you know, I'm pregnant! I never thought I'd see the day again! We tried for almost a year, and though a year seems like nothing to some... it seemed like an eternity for me. Each month proved to be a testing of my faith, hope, and love. So I just knew, the day I pee'd on that pregnancy test and it came back positive, I was going to throw a party and shout from the roof-tops- "Tira is barren no more!!!!!"

Well, as life would have it... Yoichi and I are back on our knees. We never really got to throw that "Fertile-Baby" party! :) I'm experiencing some complications with this little one inside of me, and it has frozen me with fear. I am mixed with an array of emotions... and more recently I think I've detached myself from the joy of being pregnant, as an act of "self-preservation."

But today, as GOD would have it... Pat and Kim let me borrow a book, God Works the Night Shift. It hit me right where I needed it today! I know so many of us out there are going thru tough things that are out of our control and are shaking our faith. Maybe you have a healthy baby,... but you are going thru a financial struggle, or someone in your family is very sick, or your hurt by someone close to you. Let's face it, it's dark and scary! And sometimes we are frightened, almost to a point where we are immobilized. That's kinda where I find myself recently.

What restored my heart today was the great reminder that God is working the night-shift. God is always at work in all the details of our lives. He never sleeps or slumbers. He is taking care of us and all our concerns, every step of the way. Everything that is complicated, everything that is hurting us, He is ROMANS 8:28-29ing it for us!

Romans 8:28-29 says, "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many."

Yes, He's working things together for good--- AND, He's making you and me more like His Son! The difficult situations we are in are making us mature in Christ, full and complete. It's all a part of His Masterpiece.

Everyday that I am pregnant, I am truly THANKFUL to God. Every day, I am also concerned, scared, and in desperate need of hope... I share this with you today, because I'd like my friends and family to embrace this process with me. And remind me that God is in control when I forget! :) I have no idea what the outcome is, but my hopes and hearts desire is to have a beautiful healthy baby in January 2010. And I hope by sharing my journey, everyone will experience this miracle with me... and not just the end-result. But believe me, there will be an "After-Party!" Whoop whoop!!!! :)

is there something that's shaking your faith? i'd love to hear how you are dealing with it. Lets exchange notes and hugs! :)

t xoxo.

Switchfoot at The Fair

2009-06-27T21:41:00.000-07:00

Nixon LOVES to rock-out! Drums, guitar, you name it!

He "plays" it! :)

xoxo.

*thanks to Daddy who created this little movie with his new toy!
i guess his new computer isn't all THAT bad!

Pre-Schooler at HEART :)

2009-06-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

My friend Rox gave Nixon a "Bible Answers for Preschoolers" book a couple of months ago. It's God's Word and prayers simply put for little ones. It's funny I've turned to it MORE as a Mommy because it's totally blessed ME! There's something about the truth in simple "baby" terms. :)

These two little prayers blessed me a lot this morning...

"Even when I can't be in charge of things that happen, God doesn't want me to worry-- He wants me to let Him take care of everything."

"Dear God, thank you for all the good things you give me. I love you, God! Amen."

I hope Nixon's willing to share this book with his Mommy because I don't see myself giving it up anytime soon! :)

*i do have a cute praying story about Nixon. the other day during his nap (we have a video monitor over his crib) i was peeking at him and noticed he was babbling, so i turned on the volume. after all his little squirmy movements around the crib, he turned over, folded his hands and said, "Dear Lord,... Dear Lord... Amen!" The "Amen" def. had an exclamation mark on it! Then he was out like a light!!! Isn't that so cute! I need to try that during the nights I am restless and can't sleep... pray! :) zzzzzz.

Strike a Pose!

2009-06-16T14:01:00.000-07:00

I took this at the Bay this morning.
He's so cute, I love him to pieces!
(oh, yes we shaved his hair off again! it just grows too fast!)
xoxo.

My little Monkey! :)

2009-06-10T22:51:00.000-07:00

My Aunt Cathy is wonderful at bringing a smile to your face! She sends thoughtful postcards, hand-written letters, surprise packages-- all just for the fun of it! Every piece of mail she sends is covered in fun decorative (and themed) stickers! Nixon now knows when she has struck again, because he can see the stickers a mile away when Daddy brings in the mail! He spends a good 10-15 min. quietly and intentionally peeling off every (used) sticker on each piece of mail she sends. Then he reuses it! I guess you can say he's "green."

Here's how he RE-used last week's stickers-

tatoos anyone?

She also sent this Monkey hat and monkey stuffed animal!

I love my little Monkey!
and WE ALL LOVE AUNT CATHY!!!
xoxo.

5th Wedding Anniversary

2009-05-31T09:47:00.000-07:00

i became a "Wakayama" exactly 5 years ago! our actual dating journey started almost 80 months ago... and i must say God really knew what He was doing when He set me up with Yoichi Wakayama. as many of you know, i spent the 24 years prior to meeting him terribly afraid of Guys and Dating... i tried to date guys and like them in return, but it was as if i had some sort of "Boy Disease." now i know why... God was holding me out for a God-fearing Asian Persuasion that would love me EXACTLY how i needed to be loved! :). I'm proud to say that Yoichi helped cure me of my "Boy Disease" and took away my one-way ticket to the Nunnery. "Sister Tira?" can you imagine? Nah!!!! :)

The above picture was taken by our good friend Amber. It was so perfect, she needed some "Asians-in-Love" for some of her photo work, and it just happened to be 5 years from the last time we put on our wedding attire and exchanged vows. It was really special, Thank you Amber!
We love the pics you took WAY MORE than our actual wedding day pics! :)

ONLY Five things I love about being Nixon's Mommy :)

2009-05-21T22:42:00.000-07:00

My college buddy Sarah Marsh "tagged" me on her blog. My assignment is to share the FIVE things I love about being Nix's Mommy! :) only five?? Ok... I'll try and narrow it down to five!

1. I LOVE seeing life through this little guy! The things he imagines, picks up and plays with, creates, talks about, laughs at. It's amazing and so entertaining! For example, today he came up to me and told me: "Mommy, going to work. See ya. Bye Bye. (and then he grabbed his water bottle and told me) "My coffee." (Just like Daddy! :)) Two seconds later he came running back to me and announced, "All done work!"

2. I love having a Partner in Crime. :) Everywhere I go, he's right by my side! Grocery shopping, post office, errands, and then of course there's the places he takes me- the park, Zoo, his buddies' homes, Sea World, water fountains... I love adventures with him!

3. Having Nix truly challenges me to be a better person. I love that! As a Mommy, I feel an even BIGGER responsibility to model genuine kindness, sharing (that's a big one around here these days!), how to respond when I don't get what I want, praying for our family and friends, forgiving, putting others needs before my own... he watches everything Yoichi and I do. Our little asian sponge. :) We want him to be a God-fearing, people-loving gentleman. Starts now, right?

4. I love his smiles, his hugs, his laugh, his funky dance moves, and when he's really tired... he'll snuggle! :) Makes me melt...

5. Last but not least, the unconditional love I have for my son has given me a greater appreciation and a deeper understanding of how much more my Heavenly Father loves me! What an amazing picture of God's love to His children.

Here's a little peek at his sillyness... :)

side note: If you've ever seen Trevor Davis' new project, it's called Dr Seahorse, I think this is what he is attempting to mimic. We recently took him to see Dr Seahorse, and that guy RIPS UP the drums with his sticks alone! Everything is drums these days for Nixon! Including straws, brushes, spatulas, chopsticks, etc. Oh my musician! :)

WOW: 2nd year over... about 40 more to go :)

2009-05-19T20:48:00.000-07:00

WOW (Women of the Word) 2008-09

Many of you hear me talk about my Wednesday morning WOW group. There are about 200 women that come from all over the county to meet and study The Bible together, and from those 200 we break into smaller groups. (above picture) I want to introduce you to the ladies I was so blessed to get to know this year! Aren't they so cute? :) I don't have many older 'motherly' women in my life that LOVE the Lord and are seasoned in life. (I miss my Grandma!) If you met these ladies you would be amazed at the joy and deep faith they have. These women hold so tightly to God during trials such as: cancer, losing their husbands (of 50+years of marriage), seeing their adult children hurt, and more-- all on their knees with humility and grace. On top of that... it helps me to see they lived to talk about: "Terrible Two's!", conflicts with husbands, financial stress, political movements, getting their first gray hairs, you know... things we youngins' deal with in life! :)

All in all, the beauty of this group is that we are all WOMEN who need Jesus!

I really need to thank my husband once again for letting me stay home full-time with Nixon, because this is yet another blessing I really need in my life right now, and I am so thankful for!

*missing from the above picture is my dear sweet mentor and friend that I met this year, Shelley.

I'll have to post a picture of her and I later. She's a wonderful addition to my life! A total God-send.

The Climb

2009-05-16T13:29:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday our worship band at church sang a really great song. I later found out... it's a Miley Cyrus song! ?!?!? I know, i know... that's what I was thinking! :P But the way I heard it on Sunday.... WOW, it really touched me. And I can't seem to get the words out of my head and heart... probably because it's been such a great source of encouragement lately. I've bumped into a handful of people lately who also seem to be going through a rough patch of life, and I thought I'd pass this on. (pretend it's not Miley Cyrus!) Press here for the lyrics.

"Keep on moving...
Keep on climbing...
Keep the FAITH."

i think this is how Anne Geddes got started...

2009-05-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

Nix loves it when I wrap him in a "burrito" after a bath.
Today he esp. looked like he was in a cocoon, and i thought of all those helpless babies
that Geddes uses for her photos. Maybe they like it? :)
nah.... i still think it's kinda weird.

Happy Friday!
xo.

HELP!

2009-05-13T21:37:00.000-07:00

I was attacked by a Japanese tourist
(surprisingly no fanny pack or camera)
at the Zoo last week!
I love my husband!
isn't he silly? you should see some of the other ways he can contort his face!
xo.

2 new tricks at Papa's house

2009-05-11T21:09:00.000-07:00

This weekend my son became the co-owner of a 2007 Hummer...

checking out the parts and investigating how it works

Driver's-Training

Independent Driver- Watch out! Stay off the roads!

and then there was the sweaty fun in the garage
My "Ballers!"
(Nix got a "handicap")

"i wish i was a little bit taller, i wish i was a baller..."-Skee-lo

watch how Nix copies Papa's technique before he shoots!

Bloopers from our Vacation Pics

2009-05-07T13:25:00.000-07:00

intestines? ewww!

someone tried to sneak away to go #2; we caught him in the act!
pretty obvious, son!

a chilly wind/ you can see Nix's hair is standing on end.
if only you could hear his expression- "wooooah!"

hoodlum

"nightmare on elm street"
this is what happens when you are on day 3 of NO naps.
poor kid.
poor parents!

digging out Nix's boogies before a family photo shoot
(look how determined I am... and quite precise if you ask me!)
my husbands muscles :)

one other BLOOPER: let me set the scene- we were in our rental car at the Canadian border. totally stand-still. 30min wait. we were 3 cars away from entering Canada. at this point, Yoichi's foot was on the brake (no, really!)... Nix started throwing these little (toy)snakes up at us, the rest is a blur... a snake landed on Yoichi's shoulder, we both turned around to stop him, nix was thoroughly amused...and before we knew it our fender was hitting a 2009 (brand-spankin new) black convertible porsche! "Welcome to CANADA, Wakayama's!!!" Thank you Lord that I WAS NOT DRIVING!!! You know I would've been sent home on the next plane home if I HIT THE PORSCHE!!! oy vey, bloopers gallore!

ok... that's it!

We had a wonderful vacation! I loved spending everyday with my boys. It was so awesome to explore the Pacific Northwest; green trees, water and mountains everywhere, cherry blossoms and tulips blooming everywhere! :)
I would love to live there someday!
retirement? :)
xoxo.

it's tough...

2009-04-21T23:59:00.001-07:00

...being married to a Japanese man and being forced to eat this... hee,hee.

KIDDING! what a praise! tempura is awesome!
xoxo.

Easter 2009

2009-04-15T20:34:00.000-07:00

Our favorite SPRING garden in La Mesa :)
Nix's buddies- Mackenzie and Dylan
(see their Mommy's blog for more cute pics!)

Stud #1(left)
Stud Jr. (right)

Too many eggs, too little time!

"candy... open!"

look at that fake "cheese!"
my son! (hates the camera these days!) :)

Lunch after Church/Shelter Island

Easter Egg Hunt #2 @ our home park

opening the goodies
Ryno thought it was funny what I chose to fill the eggs with.

Mimi & Papa got him a whifle bat/ball set

Papa and Daddy already teaching him
to be a switch-hitter for the Pads. :)

One happy little bunny! :)

The "Diaper Boy" races

2009-04-08T21:15:00.000-07:00

So this is what we do at our house on Thursday nights! We round up Nixon and Aiden and we have diaper races in our living room! :) Then we put them down and watch The Office. haha!

(tear-jerker)

2009-04-01T18:26:00.000-07:00

My friend Missi is a wonderful creative person! And so generous! Yesterday she wanted to do a "guinea pig" project on my lil guinea pig! :) Check it out!

http://gallery.me.com/melissakoehler#100001

Yo and I seriously cried when she sent it over. She's amazing! *I love the words to the song too. We truly owe Jesus all praise for our lil' Nix... and so much more!

Grandpa to the nth degree!

2009-03-28T20:19:00.000-07:00

Right when you think your Dad can't get any more COOLER or any MORE AWESOME as a Grandpa, you catch little sneak peeks like this...

Papa & Nix at the workbench

"Mommy, screwdriver!"

Everytime I went to "check on" Nix, they were up to something else!

Next, putting stickers on an ice-cream truck and rolling it down the drive-way!

I almost felt like I was intruding... :)

These last shots were priceless! I came out the garage door to find them across the street throwing rocks into the canyon. I could hear them hollering something. ?? As I inched closer, without them knowing, I could hear Nix yell "Whoooaaa, mamma!!" every time he chucked a rock overboard. Hilarious!!!

I love that Nixon wants to be like Papa.

I wish I had a snapshot or video clip of Nixon scream and cry when I told him that we had to go home. It was like the WORST news you could tell your son... "We're taking you home, kid."

Yeah, as if he lives in a dungeon and has no fun at home! :) I guess nothing can compare to special times with Mimi & Papa.

xoxo.

on a whim...

2009-03-16T12:38:00.000-07:00

it was 8pm last night.
we just got home from Mimi and Papa's.
I told Yoichi-

"Let's cut Nixon's hair!"
We did it.

i love it!!!!
i forgot how cute his forehead is! :)

and now, no more secretly using bobby-pins to keep his hair out of his eyes (yes, i did this a few times in the privacy of our home!)

What do you think?
Long or short?
xoxo.

The SKY is falling!

2009-03-13T14:07:00.000-07:00

I had to share a funny story... (I'm hoping it isn't foreshadow for how the rest of my weekend will be.)

Like all of you, I love Fridays! I most especially like starting my Fridays off with an awesome sweaty workout at the gym. I had just finished and was talking/walking with Nix, I was about headed upstairs to the exit when something fell from above and hit me in the head! OUCH!!! I looked down (my world spinning a little, and a tad-bit embarassed) and it was a hot pink yoga mat! WHAT!?!?!

Isn't that crazy!? Who gets hit in the head by a yoga mat!?! Only me! :(

Happy Friday.
Be careful, it's rough out there!

xoxo.

Spring Training-- Yaay, Baseball season is almost here!

2009-03-10T07:48:00.000-07:00

This last weekend we road-tripped out to Peoria, AZ to watch the SD Padres play. Despite the fact we barely know any of the players on the team this year (and we are deeply grieving the loss of Hoffman), we remain faithful Padres fans. :)

Spring Training is something else! I love it! The ball park is much more intimate, you can practically hear all the conversations on-field, and the players willingly hang out and chat with fans and give out autographs. Nixon scored and got Giles and Kooz's autograph. We're pretty sure that Yo and I would never get autographs unless we had a cute kiddo in our hands- that seems to attract nice baseball players. :)

We hope to make this road-trip an annual tradition! Hopefully Papa Norr & Uncle Ryno will come with us next time!

this little walk-in-closet became The Boy's "Fort." No Mommy's allowed! :) At 7am we could hear Nix and Nate running back n' forth and my son "dictating"- "close it!" "open it!" "inside!" "let's go!"

The bathtub was also their hangout. Nix loved playing with an older kid. He was in awe of Nathaniel. :) So cute to watch them play!

#1 Padre Fan April and I. Love this girl to pieces! She's like family to us!
My Student Teacher from a couple years ago/friend was also at the game. So great to re-connect with her. :) Miss ya, Leah!

Nix did great the whole entire 4hour game! He kept entertained in our seats, and even learned some new baseball vocabulary! :) I can't wait to root for him when he plays Little League- I'll try not to be that annoying LOUD Mom that just loves her son too much and gets in fight with mom's from the other team! :)

after the 7th-inning stretch, came the 8th-inning snooze for Nix. what an awesome kid! held out as long as he could! :)

April 6th is Opening Day... Go Padres!

xoxo.

Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus

2009-03-09T12:09:00.000-07:00

So we went away for 2 days-- Yo's pile is on the right, mine is on the left.

Didn't even snap a shot of how much I pack for Nix! :)

Spring Training was awesome!
More pics to follow.
xoxo.

Loving Arms

2009-03-06T15:22:00.000-08:00

So the "Hot Topic" at the local playgroups are TANTRUMS. Everyone seems to be experiencing them. It's totally been on my mind, because if my son isn't having one, someone's else's kiddo around me is. :) The question... "What do you do when your child has a tantrum?" It seems to me that the response is two-fold. If it's in the privacy of your own home, it's one thing... but if it's in public, and all of a sudden you become "that Mom" (you know what i'm talking about, the Mom that everyone scorns at as her child makes a scene in aisle 2 of the grocery store), yes, THAT MOM! :) then you are to respond a little differently. Luckily, Yo and I haven't had to face TOO many wild-hairy-scary tantrums with Nixon yet, but we definitely have had to parent Nixon on accepting the fact that he won't always get his way.

Which leads me to my most recent conviction and epiphany. Guys,... I hate to admit it, but I still have tantrums! :) And I'm 30! It hit me last night when I (surprise!) didn't get "MY" way. How did I respond? Just like a two-year old! :( How embarassing! Now obviously I don't live with my parents anymore and Yo does a great job of not acting like a parental figure to me... so that left God to deal with me.

And can I just tell you HIS loving discipline is best! I just had to share with you...

He embraced me tightly (Isaiah 40:11)
He held me by my right hand (Isaiah 41:13)
He gave me great and wonderful peace (Phil 4:7)
He told me I was precious to Him (Isaiah 43:4)
and He lavished His love on me (I John 3:1)

I couldn't help but turn from my selfish-ness, and respond with "hope, faith, and love."

Having a tantrum in life?
Let God deal with you... it hurts WAY less! :)
xoxo.

The ON-GOING Birthday... keeps going and going and going

2009-02-24T22:36:00.000-08:00

My Rock-Star

Does he look 2?

My Boy Band. :)

This year we didn't throw a big party for Nix, instead we celebrated over 4 days....

His TWO buddies came by to chill....

Sea World!
(thanks Mimi & Papa for the passes!)

What's a bday without
SHAMU....
and Shamu rice-krispy treats?

Family Birthday BBQ
Uncle Ryno came up with a new use for Nix's "tunnel"
not sure what to call it? Big Man in little Tube? with mini-sidekick?

so cute! :)
so messy
Daddy made Nix a HUGE YUMMY cookie-cake!!
How old are you?? TWO..er, TEN!

Bday breakfast
(is that bad we woke him up so we could all eat b-fast with Daddy before work?)

Here he's thinking, (with his puffy slanted eyes?)
You woke me up for pancakes?
OK, COOL!!!

Morning Breath def. knocks out a candle!

Opening a FUN gift from
Bella & Ethan :)

and Lastly, Birthday Poundcake from Grandma

We are now officially on Birthday-Detox!
I told Nix today that it's "Mommy's Bday" for the rest of the year!
haha.
xoxo.

"Room with a View"

2009-02-17T12:59:00.000-08:00

The View from our balcony room at the Marriott this weekend.
I highly suggest get-aways with no kiddos!
and PRICELINE.COM
Type in 80 bucks, 5star hotel
You won't be disappointed!
:)
See how happy and cute this man is!
xoxo.

OUT-TAKES :)

2009-02-15T19:14:00.000-08:00

Here are some Valentine-Out-Takes
(the ones Tabitha didn't receive!) :)

a little too "Fabio"

too dark, can't see his face

almost

dissecting the flowers (and under-exposed)

at the end of his patience- pulling the leaves off
"no more, Mommy!"
it kinda reminded me of "she loves me, she loves me not!"

this one was runner-up

Lastly, this was the one we sent! :)

Hope everyone had a special Valentine's!
xoxo.

The Trolley Experience (Posted by Yo)

2009-02-07T15:02:00.000-08:00

T had planned a cool field trip for us to go to SDSU via the trolley. She had planned a lunch at La Torta and a day walking around campus.

In Point Loma where we started it was a nice sunny day but as we headed east on the green line we can see that there was a storm brewing. By the time we hit the "Q" it was raining pretty hard and as we got off the station as SDSU it was practically Hailing!

Cheek 2 Cheek..

Matching vests..

Im so glad I dont rely on the trolley to get around..

All information, products, services and use of this post is for personal use only. White on Rice does not confirm nor deny the validity or accuracy of the information contained within the blog. Any pictures or text provided by White on Rice and its Contributors should be used soley for entertainment and enjoyment.

-Yo

Quarantine

2009-02-06T21:07:00.000-08:00

Last Friday my sweet son caught the terrible flu/cold that everyone seems to have. At his worst, his temp reached 105! Talk about panicky-on-my-kness-Mommy! So sad. 7 days later, he's playing again and helping nurse his Mommy and Daddy back to health! I hope to get out of "solitary confinement" soon! It's no fun being stuck inside!

This is what he looked like most of the time.

Once the fever broke- I could still find his yummy smile!

Hope the BUG skips your house!
xoxo.

Oopsie, I got caught! :)

2009-02-04T15:01:00.000-08:00

I never thought I would share this photo, even more so... ON MY BLOG for you all to see! :) God has a funny sense of humor! I got caught! So, why am I sharing a pic of Mario Lopez's booty with you? Because this is HOW CLOSE i was to IT this last Summer when Yo took me to the Broadway Play, Chorus Line in New York City. haaa! I'm not one of those obsessed-types, but when you're in the 2nd row... you kinda can't help but take a snap shot! :)

So, that's it.

I have repented. :)
And I almost had forgotten about it,...
until Kimmy-Kim and Dilenna tagged me in this little blog activity.

Here are the rules:
1. Choose the 4th folder where you store your pictures on your computer. No cheating {cropping, editing, etc.}!
2. Select the 4th picture in the folder.
3. Explain the picture.
4. Tag 4 people to do the same.

I tag: Kristy L, Sharon, Julie F, Sarah Marsh
By the way- The show was AWESOME!!! The talent, the dancing, the singing! I would go back to see it again and again, even if ML wasn't in it! :)

Papa's Posting

2009-01-26T08:17:00.001-08:00

I can't take credit for this shot. Nix's Papa took it and I'm sure he'd post it if he had a blog! :)

I love this pic!

Take time to stop and kiss the turtles! :)
xoxo.

Summer in January

2009-01-18T22:16:00.000-08:00

Even though the calendar says it's Winter, right now the weather is telling us it is SUMMER! That means you can find us Wakayama's OUTSIDE! :)

running around with the Croucher girls

"cheers!" to churros
(please tell me you've had a Costco churro; that's not a seasonal item. whew!)

exploring the OB Pier

flip-flops required

and then there's strolls around Lake Murray

Winter are you really gone? Or are you just hiding?
i'd still like to wear my UGGS a couple more times.
:P

2009

2009-01-10T09:44:00.000-08:00

I am in denial that it is 2009! Since I haven't really had to write it down anywhere (i'm not in school, and i don't write checks!), I'm still in 2008! :) Well, after reading my good friend Sharon's blog about resolutions, and being nagged by Kim the last 10 days (haa, haa! kidding K2!! what would i do without you!? xoxo) ... I realized I am about ready to make a new goal. Don't get me wrong, I thrive off of working towards something, and completing it. It's so fulfilling! :) I love goals! Just like I love to-do lists! I'm not the non-committal-type and, I don't think I'm lazy. :) But, you should know, I am pretty extreme-- "ALL, or nothing." Thanks to my dear Chinese Mom. :) I do things, completely! or NOT. There is no half-way with me.

I've battled back n' forth on what to make my goal. Workout more? No. Clean the house more? No. Cut out sugar? Heck no! Everything that people traditionally make goals for, wasn't resonating with me this year. I knew I wanted to work on something different. Something "inside." hmm??? It would be lofty (and cheesy) to say "I want to become a better person," huh? But after thinking about what that meant for ME, and my personal areas of weakness-- I ran into a few verses in the Bible this week-- and then I knew it! That's my goal!

1 Corinthians 13:1-13:
"If I could speak in any language in heaven or on earth but didn't love others, I would only be making meaningless noise like a loud gong or a clanging cymbal. If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I knew all the mysteries of the future and knew everything about everything, but didn't love others, what good would I be? And if I had the gift of faith so that I could speak to a mountain and make it move, without love I would be no good to anybody. If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn't love others, I would be of no value whatsoever.

Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. Love does not demand it's own way. Love is not irritable, and it keeps no record of when it has been wronged. It is never glad about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

Love will last forever....
There are three things that will endure--- faith, hope, and love--- and the greatest of these is LOVE."

There's another set of verses that jumped out at me this week- Romans 12:6-21:
"God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out when you have faith that God is speaking through you. If your gift is that of serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, do a good job of teaching. If your gift is to encourage others, do it! If you have money, share it generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.

Don't just pretend that you love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of good. Love each other with genuine affection and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.

Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful. When God's children are in need, be the one to help them out. And get into the habit of inviting guests home for dinner, or, if they need lodging, for the night.

If people persecute you because you are a believer, don't curse them; pray that God will bless them. When others are happy, be happy with them. If they are sad, share their sorrows. Live in harmony with each other. Don't try to act important, but enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don't think you know it all!"

So basically, I really want to live 2009, LOVING God & people more, and DOING what God is calling me to do, each day.

I'm still brainstorming on how I can break this down a little... and make it do-able? I guess my big thing now is asking myself, "Tira, how can YOU love people better?" and "How can I live out each day with more purpose?" Any ideas? xoxo.

COOL boy accessories-- LEAVES! :)

2009-01-02T21:18:00.000-08:00

can't you just hear the crunch, crunch of these leaves? :)

oops, there's more!!

2008-12-30T15:16:00.001-08:00

Of course I just downloaded from our other camera, and couldn't help but post these too! Too cute to not post! :)

Meeting Santa in front of Trader Joe's. He came riding in on the FireTruck.

Making
Christmas cookies

Gingerbread House Party @ The Whites

"hood-lum"

"guitar-hero."

Erin teaching Nix how to give "wet willies!" Yesss! on Uncle Ryno! ("lick your finger, then put it in his ear, Nix!" can't you just hear her saying that!)

The End. :)

Snap shots of our Christmas

2008-12-28T12:03:00.001-08:00

Can you believe Christmas has come and gone??? We hope you enjoyed everything about this last week. Here is a little of what we did...

My gift to my Mom was a complete Turkey Dinner at The Wakayama home. I didn't want her to have to cook, clean, or even bring a thing! My 1st complete Turkey Dinner--- whew! I can see why we only do it ONCE a year!! :) Such a fun challenge though!

Meet "Hansel."
Being brined overnight, stuffed,

and ready to be eaten! Christmas Eve Dessert was a birthday cake for Jesus!

Classic question of the night- "Who's birthday is it?" haaaa! :) Hopefully Nixon can answer that next year! :)

Day after Christmas, we put Nix's new trike to work. We took this opportunity for a photoshoot too! :)

Here he's saying, "happeee!"
There's nothing like seeing your kid experience his 1sts with such joy!

my lil' runt
xoxo

Hustle n' Bustle

2008-12-22T11:49:00.000-08:00

This time every year I find myself losing sight of the real reason of this Christmas season; celebrating Christ's birth. God's ultimate gift to us, compels us to give, and to give thanks. Right? Well, if you're anything like me, it ends up being go-go-go, racing around the mall, decorating the house, writing Christmas letters, sending out Christmas cards, breaking the budget, standing in long lines at the Post Office, trying to fit everything in, I always forget to breathe! So, this year I told myself ahead of time-- "Focus!!" Before any of the hustle n' bustle started, I carved out intentional ways for my family and I to celebrate Christ's birth. Cool! Everything was going well, I still did some running around, and before I knew it I was losing sight of Jesus, and instead falling into my old slump of stress and checking people off my gift list...

Then there was Saturday night! Reality Check. The "calm before the storm" or what I would call in this situation the calm "within" the busy storm! :)

Saturday night, the Nguyen's took us to Horizon's Living Nativity Scene. Woah, have you ever experienced a LIVE Nativity story? It was so impressive! The people of that church really went all out- real camels, donkeys, sheep, a real baby as Jesus in the manger, angelic-choirs singing, big loud men in Roman gear... it was amazing! We walked thru each station and felt like we were really in Jerusalem, experiencing Christ, our Savior's birth!

You know what the real blessing was in this evening? Was being with my family and taking time to give thanks for God sending His Son Jesus to be our Savior. It was a breath of fresh (chilly) air! :)

Don't get me wrong, I love the shopping, gifts, making Christmas cookies, looking at Christmas lights, all that stuff is sooooo awesome! I love it! And it's what makes this season so fun and jolly! But I really like celebrating the real reason of this season too! :)

In Loving Memory

2008-12-10T15:29:00.001-08:00

September 15, 1913- December 10, 2008

Today with great sadness, we lost our wonderful Grandpa, Harry Norr. He led a wonderful life. He was a die-hard Swede with great morals, faith, and integrity. If you met him, you would agree that he was the sharpest man you'd ever met! Not only in appearance, but his mind was sharp. Brilliant! He could tell you detailed stories of history, "HIS STORY." :) Grandpa and Grandma came out to San Diego every year and spent the Winter with us. We loved the time they spent with us! I will never forget his stories, his humor, and most of all how he could talk to anyone about anything! I miss him so much!

Even though tears still fall for him, I do rejoice that he is reunited with my Grandma and will get to celebrate Christmas WITH Jesus this year!

Nixon is looking forward to some PAID vacation time

2008-12-09T16:10:00.000-08:00

day of love! xoxo

2008-12-03T07:22:00.000-08:00

my attempt to be romantic and creative like my husband
still came in 2nd
:)
Happy 73rd, Love!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2008-11-26T20:59:00.000-08:00

There is so much to be thankful for this year! :)

My Top 10:

1. I am thankful for my hard-working husband who supports me staying home full-time with Nixon,

2. My son who keeps me on my toes, and fills my heart with yummy sweetness,
3. Mom&Dad&bro; their unconditional love, they provide free babysitting, and generous ways to support me as a Mom and Wife,
4. My girlfriends! Let's face it, who can survive this life without girls you can laugh, talk their ear off, cry, eat chocolate, and pray with! :)
5. America. I know that sounds cheesy, but I really am thankful to live in a FREE and democratic society. We host so many international students, and with each one of them we really see how fortunate we are to live in the USA.
6. My personal relationship with God. With Him I have such hope and peace!
7. My Church; http://www.gracesd.com/
8. Living in San Diego (yep, still wearing flip-flops!)
9. Dance
10. French fries with Ranch and Costco churros!

oh, and 11. I'm thankful FOR YOU, for reading this!

What are some things YOU are thankful for?

Happy Thanksgiving!
gobble, gobble!
xoxo.

A-ha moment!

2008-11-25T20:57:00.000-08:00

This may sound trivial, but... I have to announce that I finished a book the other day.

(Actually two books. Woah!! but the second book doesn't really count because it's a book I went through with my Girl's Group, and it took us almost a year! One chapter at a time. Celebration of Discipline, I HIGHLY recommend it!) Anyway, the book I completed ON MY OWN, thank-you-very-much :) was The Last Lecture, by Randy Pausch. An honest last "lecture" by a man/teacher who knew he was dying from pancreatic cancer. He shares simple life lessons on how to make your dreams come true, and is very candid on what he was doing in life to prepare his wife and children to survive without him. I really enjoyed this book. It made me laugh, it gave me good insight, and it made me cry. I forgot how much I enjoy reading; escaping from the real world, relaxing, and letting my imagination go.

I think I'll finish another book... oops, like the one Heidi let me borrow MONTHS ago... Blue Like Jazz. I'm half-way thru. Ok, I will... :)

Economic Hard Times

2008-11-19T21:15:00.000-08:00

We've resorted to putting our kid to work!

9 to 5

Priceless! :)

Taking Care of Mommy

2008-11-17T10:33:00.000-08:00

I spent the weekend in Colorado with my bestfriends (aka The Spice Girls!) from Biola. 3 un-interrupted days of girl time and celebration of Beth's ("Ginger Spice") marriage to Scott. As some of you know, the days leading up to my departure were a little guilt-ridden. I felt so torn about leaving my boys for the first time... for such a long time.

Well, what a weekend! I went, and I have no regrets! :) I needed this! :) I treasure all the talks we had into the wee hours of the night! Every one of us girls sharing our hearts, our lives, and speaking such truth and love into each other. I came with a few burdens on my heart, and left with clarity of mind and peace. That's what good girlfriends do for each other, right? Lighten the load and offer sweet grace. :)

Something really moved me yesterday as I was on my flight home. At this point, I was soooo excited and anxious to see my boys! I was sitting alone and the flight attendants were going over the emergency plan before take-off. When the flight attendant acted out applying the oxygen mask in case of a change in air pressure, I couldn't help but find a deeper meaning in what he was saying and doing. He said, be sure to apply the oxygen mask to yourself first, before you try to help others. And then he acted out putting it on himself, THEN to a young child sitting in the first seat in front of him. If you are like me, I would instinctively want to put the face mask on my child first. I think that's what a lot of us Mom's do naturally.
Our children and husbands, first.
Then, we take care of ourselves.
But if you think about it, Mr. Flight Attendant is right. We need to put on our masks first, so we can more efficiently help those around us. Woah! You mean I shouldn't feel guilty for leaving this weekend and taking time for myself? You mean us Mommy's need to take care of ourselves, so that we can better take care of our loved ones? Maybe I'm stretching this whole oxygen mask analogy... :) but, I can't explain how renewed, joyful, and grateful I feel today! I'm back! :)

You know what? It was the best thing I could've done for myself and for my family!

"Spice up your life!"

A "steep" life lesson

2008-11-11T15:55:00.000-08:00

So today I was motivated to WALK to our local library. If you aren't familiar with the route from our home to the Pt Loma Library, let me share with you...
3 words.
STEEP
HILL
UP.
Now I drive 99% of the time, but I had an alterior motive today... let's be real, I'm trying to fit into Rox's black cocktail dress for our cruise to Cabo in 2 weeks. Doesn't help to do a little more exercising, right? haa! :) Nix and I venture out... as I start to make the steep incline, a driver honks and hollers, "Good luck!" No really, it's that steep!! When I was ALMOST up to the top, two neighbors in their garage laughed and said- "Almost there!" (as I'm sure, under their breath were thinking- "dumb overzealous Mom!") :) Xenophon St. (check it out, i'm not lying!)

So, with my face parallel to the ground, pushing the stroller for the life of me.... i realize, "Wow, it's so cool that I've seen so many American flags out today. I love how patriotic Pt Loma is!" Then it hit me... It's Veteran's Day! a second later it really hit me... THE LIBRARY IS CLOSED!!!! Aaagh! All that blood, sweat, and tears....

I decided to finish the hike to the top, and I'm so glad I did. Look what I got blessed with!

SD Horizon-- ahhh, the beauty!

(see the edge! S-T-E-E-P.)

Moral of the story- Whatever hard thing you're going thru right now, whatever mountain you are facing... GO UP IT! Give it all you got! Sometimes it's stinkin sweaty work getting there, and then we don't even get there. But, look around. It really can be a beautiful journey!

Look at my lil' runt. So happy, he has TWO leaves!
That's it. Two dead leaves, and a beautiful view of the city!
Child-like faith.

My Favorite Birthday :)

2008-11-05T08:36:00.000-08:00

Birthdays seem to be getting better and better each year... after my dad and bro's bdays in October, i start to drag my heels towards Nov. 1st. Anything BUT getting another year older sounds better. But then it comes, it happens, and I surprise myself each year. I end up LOVIN IT! Let's admit it, I thrive on the extra-lovin! :) Here are a few highlights of my special day-

Yo woke up and SERIOUSLY slaved over a hot stove for me! He made a delish breakfast of omelettes, fresh guac, salsa, HOMEMADE cinnamon rolls, and BEEFY FATTY bacon! Woo hoo! Way better than my routine cereal and milk bfast. :) Hon, can I request that every morning? :)

After that, we headed out on our family adventure. I know this sounds silly, but I've always wanted to ride the SD old town trolley. Being married to Yoichi, he makes things happen! :) Yo surprised me and got us 3 tixs to get the full SD tour. Over 10 stops--- we stopped at Horton Plaza, Gaslamp, Coronado, and Old Town. We learned so much history about our city that we never knew! We LOVE San Diego! :) Oh, and how embarassing is this--- people would ask us, "Where are you guys from?" Each time we would laughingly say, "Uh... San Diego!" Do you think they got confused because of our cameras around our neck and video footage we were taking? Typical Asian Tourists! Like I said, We LOVE SD! :)

Old Town Trolley Tour

I highly suggest you go on this tour. They have great deals if you are a SD resident.

Here's a shot of Nix holding on to dear life to a street lamp downtown. Yo thought it would be cool to have him hug it! Boys! :)

Ahhh.... Coronado! Check out that skyline!?

I have awesome video footage of Nix running after these birds. He really thought he could catch one. He was chasing after them saying, "Hold it." "Have it." "Birdie." over n' over.

The Tourists!

After our adventure, we went home, cleaned up and Yo let me pick the restaurant of my choice. I chose OUTBACK!!! What can i say I'm a steak and french fries kinda girl!

Right when you thought this blog was over... and right when I thought my birthday was over- my parents had an AMAZING family bbq for me on Sunday. Yep, more eating!

Check out the grub!!! Who takes pics of food? Connoisseurs like me, of course!
(tri-tip, korean bbq chicken, hot sausage kabobs, shrimp salad, and bread)

Last but not least, the ice cream cake.
Yay for birthdays! :)
Hon, thanks for making my day so special! That was the best thing we could've done, family day! I love you! And thanks for loving this 31 year old! :)

Hmm...only 360 more days til my next one!

Wakayama's Halloween

2008-11-01T10:42:00.000-07:00

Ahoy, Matey!
Check out our little pirate! :)
We had a festive Halloween week.
*for more pics on how we spent Halloween, check
out Kim's blog. I'm piggy-backing onto hers.

can you believe someone thought he was
wearing a wig?
i can!
:)

Our lil' Munch, all grown up, looking for candy!
xoxo.

Smurf meets Punker :)

2008-10-29T10:19:00.001-07:00

i had this crazy idea to spray Nix's wild un-ruley hair BLUE.
it came to me in a dream. haaa haa! kidding.

but hey, if it's going to stand up, might as well shape it and spray it, right? :)

we're trying to grow it out, in hopes it lays down.
no luck yet!
til then, well have fun with it!
xoxo.

Norr humor

2008-10-27T10:50:00.000-07:00

FYI. My Dad has a few new pets- 6 fish, to fill their new aquarium. I had to share their names. :) The white one is "McCain," the black one is "Obama" and the goldfish is "ACORN." haaa! And the 3 little ones that stick together are "The 3 Tops!" My Dad!!! That's Norr humor for ya'!

Tagged! :)

2008-10-26T11:26:00.000-07:00

I visited my friend Dilenna's blog and she had a great blog entry: "Top 10 things my Husband loves"-- her husband, not mine! :) haha.

So here are the TOP 10 THINGS MY HUSBAND LOVES---

1. Yoichi loves God and the Bible!
2. Me and Nixon.
3. San Diego Chargers and SD Padres; as many of you have witnessed, he'll even run out of church during prayer to get to the nearest TV! :)
4. Mountainbiking! (check out his huge calves next time you see him!)
5. Craigslist! He will research an item to death, find it on craigslist, low ball an innocent stranger, buy it... (you still following me?), use it, maybe not use it, then RE-SELL it for MORE! Why, for the thrill!?
6. Family walks after dinner
7. Surfing and bodyboarding in the ocean
8. Working out; he's a gym rat! 4-5 days a week. Defined 6pack that I wash my laundry on!
9. Music, Art, & Style
10. Flan, tiramisu, and any coffee-flavored ice cream! oh, and sushi!

What are the top 10 things YOUR hubby loves?

Happy Birthday, Uncle Ryno! :)

2008-10-23T10:09:00.001-07:00

Yes... another family member's birthday! Another SPECIAL family member, my younger brother, Ryan! I know, he looks "older" but after one second of talking to him you would admit that I'm WAY more mature! haaa! (love ya bro!)

I vividly remember the day my brother was born... it was very traumatic! I had four years of being the "only child"-- i had my parents 150% undivided attention and love :) and then he came along!

I'm soooo glad he did! Little did I know I needed someone to pick on, play with, form an alliance with in Toys stores, and now in life-- He is a good friend to me and an amazing Uncle to my son. ahhh! I could cry! I love you RYAN! I love that we are close and that Mom and Dad raised us to make family top priority. Happy Birthday, Punk! xoxo.

Where is Fall?

2008-10-20T20:52:00.001-07:00

Our family tradition of visiting Bates Nut Farm was this weekend. There's nothing that says Fall like big pumpkins, kettle corn,... flip flops, shorts, and scorching sun! ha ha! San Diego is one crazy place! :) Last year it was chilly and wet, this year it was like a hot Summer day! I even got sun-burned on my shoulders. And I definitely sweat! Whew!

Here's our little pumpkin!

Happy Fall!
Wakayamas
xoxo.

Happy 60th Birthday, Dad! :)

2008-10-11T22:03:00.000-07:00

My Daddyo is one of my best buddies, text-message faithfuls, and confidante to me, for the last 30....er,... yikes almost 31 years! I really thank God for giving me such a special and amazing dad! Something that really touches me to this day is that my dad tucked me into bed EVERYNIGHT... he would talk with me, place all my stuffed animals protectively and snuggly around my head, create silly and entertaining bed time stories (where many times I was the Princess- aha! that's where I get my "Princess-Complex," friends!), and that warm good night kiss that made me feel so safe and loved. EVERYDAY! Wow! And in highschool, it might not have been the same cutesy good night ritual... stuffed animals, etc. but it was a time he checked up on me and still made me feel so safe and loved. That's key!

I could tell you a TON more about what makes him so special; like how he had THREE jobs at one point to provide for our family, how he fulfilled the American Dream and has his own successful family-run business (sdav.com), how he coached my brother's little league teams... ok, ok, i'll stop! I might make Yo jealous! :)

If Yo and I have a baby girl someday, I want Yo to be just like my dad!

We love you, dad! xoxo.

It starts at a young age...boys need girls!

2008-10-11T21:51:00.000-07:00

Nix can feed himself, but he would LOVE it if Bella hand-fed him.
(I see a parallel! Yo can feed himself, but he'd rather have me feed him!haaa! boys!!! needy!)

the crazy thing... us girls like it! :)

Bella, you're so precious with Nixon. Thank you! xoxo.

When the cats away... the mice will play! :)

2008-10-06T22:28:00.000-07:00

The Moms had things to do, people to see... so the Dads were in charge! Here's some pics of their adventure. Thought they were cute!

these kids don't even know how spoiled they are to play at such a
beautiful park! (shelter island)

we got them back, all in tact. :)

nix's signature bad boy stare
*love how Yo caught the navy ship in the background

This one's for Julie F. :)

2008-10-02T16:12:00.001-07:00

Hair Hair Everywhere! My boys have the craziest hair, and you know it! That's why we had to hire a HAIR-TAMER! haha.

We're so lucky that Erin comes to our house and cuts the boys hair. Besides Erin being such a warm and beautiful woman and friend in my life, she also keeps my brother out of trouble, and styles hair on the side! :) (ok, so it might not be in that order, but you know what I mean!) I tell ya, I don't know how she gets my boys to sit still and be quiet! But I love it! And they look so handsome afterwards! :) Check out last week's visit!

my little boy

my big boy

If you're looking for a great hair stylist, you have to give Erin a try. She gives the BEST relaxing scalp massages and free girltalk each visit! :) She works at a really great professional salon in OB. (Details 222-6777, ask for Erin Cushman) :) sorry erin. you probably didn't expect all this hype on you in my blog! love ya! xoxo.

Objects in picture may appear larger than in real life... but actually are accurate!

2008-09-19T10:44:00.000-07:00

Waitress: "What would you like to drink?"
Me: "We'll take 2 waters, and do you have a kid size water with a straw for him?"
Waitress: "Sure!"

Have a Larger-than-Life Friday! :)
xoxo.

"Man I feel like a WOMAN!" - Shania Twain

2008-09-13T14:43:00.000-07:00

Today I ventured out on my own. Yo went mountainbiking with the guys. I dropped the little runt with the Grandparents.

t-time.

I had two hours all to myself--- what to do?!! I turned in my big diaper bag for my cute leather Aldo bag, pulled out my tight jeans, slapped on some lipstick, and even took a shower. I was tempted to just go at my To-do list (oh how much i could accomplish without a little one in tow!) but i decided against it. Instead, I treated myself to a iced coffee at Borders, kicked back in the comfy lounge chair, and read! Leisure reading, what's that? :) People magazine, InStyle, and my Ralph Pausch book.

I ALMOST fooled those around me that I was a Woman without Kids, until Nix's musical little toy went off on my purse. Eesh, how embarassing!

But what a great reminder that I absolutely LOVE being a Mom with a kid. 99% of the time.
The other 1%, I like being just a Woman! :)

Walking and Cupcakes!

2008-09-10T22:09:00.000-07:00

one happy camper!
what more can he ask for... his buddies, yummy cupcakes, and playing outside!

aren't these kids so stinkin' cute?

including this little guy!

Thanks for celebrating Nix's new milestone!

xoxo.

PROOF of Purchase

2008-09-07T20:27:00.000-07:00

Please tilt your head n' enjoy! :)

18months, 2weeks.
xoxo.

Happy Grandparent's Day xoxo

2008-09-07T12:11:00.001-07:00

We treated PaPa & Mimi to breakfast at OHOP
(Original House of Panckaes; NOT to be confused with IHOP!)

Grandparents are the best! They love your kiddo almost as much as you do! Thank you for all the free babysitting and spoiling you do, Grandparents!

Nixon adores you!! xoxo.

12 Step Plan

2008-09-03T14:58:00.000-07:00

Hey Folks! Happy September! Yes indeed, the Wakayama's are happy, and it's September... in response to the title of this entry, no i'm not advertising 12 step plans for addictions, instead i'm referring to the little runt's ability to walk!

NIXON TOOK 12 STEPS BY HIMSELF YESTERDAY!!!
(woo hoo!!)

No props. No fingers. NO walls. No assistance.
Just his little drunk legs and his melt-in-your-mouth smile!

Those of you who don't know, my son hasn't walked on his own yet. And boy has this been humbling for his mommy (and co-author of the book- Top of the Class; How Asian Parents Raise High Achievers--and How You Can Too) All of his buddies his age, walked "years" ago! :) And I know I shouldn't compare.... but you start to wonder. Are his legs broken? Does he need leg braces like Forrest Gump? Will I carry him to Prom? And so on, and so on.

Anyway, I'll work on my bad habit of comparing... but in the meantime I'm celebrating like a fool that my little precious runt took 12 STEPS yesterday... and 22 today!!! :)

Get ready, the homemade cupcake and milk party is on it's way!

This is his "walking face."
he's just as thrilled as i am
and this is just his "i'm cute nixon james wakayama face."

1 dolla', makes ya' wanna holla'!

2008-08-22T15:26:00.001-07:00

As many of you know, Tuesday nights is dollar a scoop night at 31 Flavors. Sometimes we remember, sometimes we forget. This week we remembered. :) mm, mm! Yo hung out with his guy's group, Nix and I snuck out to "run errands"--- next thing we knew we were slurping down multiple scoops of ice cream with Mimmy and Papa.

This kid rarely gets "dessert-dessert." So when he had his own sugar cone to chomp on, he about died and went to heaven. He didn't even care that there wasn't ice cream in it! :)

Share, Nixon?
"NO!"
snicker, snicker.

After Church on Sunday...

2008-08-18T14:54:00.000-07:00

We hit the beach with the Lorenzen's.

(Meet DEEFOR & her proud parents)

this was Nixon's first time in the ocean water

he absolutely LOVED it! it was really special for Yoichi to see his son enjoy the water so much. Yo dreams of teaching Nix to surf. :)

look closely, sand granules all over! you should've seen his diaper; clumps o' sand!

another addiction

2008-08-16T20:58:00.000-07:00

THE OLYMPICS!!!

aah! i've been staying up late EVERY night because I can't help rooting on Michael Phelps, the USA gymnastics, and now I'm growing interested in the track n' field! :) Ay yie yie! Good thing this only lasts two weeks, I don't think my body could handle these late nights of adrenaline pumping thru my body- AND I think my husband is sick of my squeals for Michael Phelps. You gotta admit, last night's finger-nail win was INSANE!!!! (btw, i could NEVER be an athlete in the Olympics. I just wouldn't be able to handle the competitive pressure, and i would probably end up letting someone else win because they're from a third world country, or they were taken from their family at the age of 3 to train, or.... My husband says, "Tira, it's a competition. Only one person can win.")

Tis true.
Go USA!
Phelps for PREZ!
:)