Pete & Sharmela Hafen

Park City, Utah

2012-01-17T14:20:00.001-08:00

A week ago ( I know I'm behind on my blog) we spent 3 days in Park City, Utah. Pete is switching to a different company for work and they were having a managers retreat. Harlow and I were invited to go along. To my surprise, we did not stay in a hotel. We stayed in a huge mansion in the mountains. When I say huge, I mean HUGE! It was like a 6,000 sq feet, 4 million dollar home. It was heavenly! But I didn't bring my camera along. I figured this trip would be a boring, cold, work trip. I am so bummed I have no pictures of the home we stayed in. All of the managers and their wives and some of their kids stayed in the house as well. It had something like 7 bedrooms, mudroom, huge kitchen and living spaces, theater, game room, sauna, spa, down stair kitchen and living space, etc. I think my favorite was the heated floors in the mudroom. A girl can dream right? If my floors were heated we'd never have to turn our heater on. (I hate wearing socks)

It didn't snow but it sure was cold. A few days before we arrived it had snowed so there was snow on the ground and it was a high of 36 degrees while we were there. I don't do well in the cold and Harlow and I do not have a wardrobe fitting for snow. I literally had 4 layers on her at all times. Harlow was a big fan of playing in the snow but since we didn't have snow clothes she didn't get to do as much as she would have liked. But it was beautiful to look at.

Harlow on the morning we left. Testing out her hat and shopping with Gus Gus.

The night we arrived in Salt Lake City, Utah

On our last day we found an indoor carousel and of course Harlow wanted to take a ride.

Playing in the snow outside the house we stayed at.

Drawing pictures in the snow.

Of course Pooh Bear came along for the trip.

Ever played Rollick? Pretty entertaining.

Park City, Utah sunset.

A Life Lesson

2012-01-06T21:46:00.000-08:00

I'll admit that I am addicted to pinterest. Don't judge me for how much time I spend on it a day. It has improved my families eating habits, recipes, wardrobe, DIY-ing, crafts, and educational fun for Harlow. But today I stumbled upon a little something different. I read a blog entry that hit really close to home. Some days being a stay-at-home mom is HARD. I love my child, she is beautiful, smart, and everything I wished for in a child but it's just plain simple, some days are harder than others. Teaching and growing my child into a happy, healthy, thriving child is work, HARD work. There are days that I am frazzled, grumpy, unkempt and annoyed. But those are overshadowed by all of the good and magic that Harlow brings to my life. And sometimes, people just need a dose of reality. Some think I have it easy being just a mom, but there is no perfect description for Mom. I wear every hat under the sun, and some days I make up that hat.

Anyways, this mom wrote on her blog about how she felt about not always fulfilling the Carpe Diem mentality. And I concur.

Don't Carpe Diem

Every time I’m out with my kids – this seems to happen:

An older woman stops us, puts her hand over her heart and says something like, “Oh- Enjoy every moment. This time goes by so fast.”

Everywhere I go, someone is telling me to seize the moment, raise my awareness, be happy, enjoy every second, etc, etc, etc.

I know that this message is right and good. But as 2011 closes, I have finally allowed myself to admit that it just doesn’t work for me. It bugs me. This CARPE DIEM message makes me paranoid and panicky. Especially during this phase of my life – while I’m raising young kids. Being told, in a million different ways to CARPE DIEM makes me worry that if I’m not in a constant state of intense gratitude and ecstasy, I’m doing something wrong.

I think parenting young children (and old ones, I’ve heard) is a little like climbing Mount Everest. Brave, adventurous souls try it because they’ve heard there’s magic in the climb. They try because they believe that finishing, or even attempting the climb are impressive accomplishments. They try because during the climb, if they allow themselves to pause and lift their eyes and minds from the pain and drudgery, the views are breathtaking. They try because even though it hurts and it’s hard, there are moments that make it worth the hard. These moments are so intense and unique that many people who reach the top start planning, almost immediately, to climb again. Even though any climber will tell you that most of the climb is treacherous, exhausting, killer. That they literally cried most of the way up.

And so I think that if there were people stationed, say, every thirty feet along Mount Everest yelling to the climbers – “ARE YOU ENJOYING YOURSELF!? IF NOT, YOU SHOULD BE! ONE DAY YOU’LL BE SORRY YOU DIDN’T!” TRUST US!! IT’LL BE OVER TOO SOON! CARPE DIEM!” - those well-meaning, nostalgic cheerleaders might be physically thrown from the mountain.

Now. I’m not suggesting that the sweet old ladies who tell me to ENJOY MYSELF be thrown from a mountain. These are wonderful ladies. Monkees, probably. But last week, a woman approached me in the Target line and said the following: “Sugar, I hope you are enjoying this. I loved every single second of parenting my two girls. Every single moment. These days go by so fast.”

At that particular moment, Amma had arranged one of the new bras I was buying on top of her sweater and was sucking a lollipop that she must have found on the ground. She also had three shop-lifted clip-on neon feather stuck in her hair. She looked exactly like a contestant from Toddlers and Tiaras. I couldn’t find Chase anywhere, and Tish was grabbing the pen on the credit card swiper thing WHILE the woman in front of me was trying to use it. And so I just looked at the woman, smiled and said, “Thank you. Yes. Me too. I am enjoying every single moment. Especially this one. Yes. Thank you.”

That’s not exactly what I wanted to say, though.

There was a famous writer who, when asked if he loved writing, replied, “No. but I love having written.” What I wanted to say to this sweet woman was, “Are you sure? Are you sure you don’t mean you love having parented?”

I love having written. And I love having parented. My favorite part of each day is when the kids are put to sleep (to bed) and Craig and I sink into the couch to watch some quality TV, like Celebrity Wife Swap, and congratulate each other on a job well done. Or a job done, at least.

Every time I write a post like this, I get emails suggesting that I’m being negative. I have received this particular message four or five times – G, if you can’t handle the three you have, why do you want a fourth?

That one always stings, and I don’t think it’s quite fair. Parenting is hard. Just like lots of important jobs are hard. Why is it that the second a mother admits that it’s hard, people feel the need to suggest that maybe she’s not doing it right? Or that she certainly shouldn’t add more to her load. Maybe the fact that it’s so hard means she IS doing it right…in her own way…and she happens to be honest.

Craig is a software salesman. It’s a hard job in this economy. And he comes home each day and talks a little bit about how hard it is. And I don’t ever feel the need to suggest that he’s not doing it right, or that he’s negative for noticing that it’s hard, or that maybe he shouldn’t even consider taking on more responsibility. And I doubt anybody comes by his office to make sure he’s ENJOYING HIMSELF. I doubt his boss peeks in his office and says: “This career stuff…it goes by so fast…ARE YOU ENJOYING EVERY MOMENT IN THERE, CRAIG???? CARPE DIEM, CRAIG!”

My point is this. I used to worry that not only was I failing to do a good enough job at parenting, but that I wasn’t enjoying it enough. Double failure. I felt guilty because I wasn’t in parental ecstasy every hour of every day and I wasn’t MAKING THE MOST OF EVERY MOMENT like the mamas in the parenting magazines seemed to be doing. I felt guilty because honestly, I was tired and cranky and ready for the day to be over quite often. And because I knew that one day, I’d wake up and the kids would be gone, and I’d be the old lady in the grocery store with my hand over my heart. Would I be able to say I enjoyed every moment? No.

But the fact remains that I will be that nostalgic lady. I just hope to be one with a clear memory. And here’s what I hope to say to the younger mama gritting her teeth in line:

“It’s helluva hard, isn’t it? You’re a good mom, I can tell. And I like your kids, especially that one peeing in the corner. She’s my favorite. Carry on, warrior. Six hours till bedtime.” And hopefully, every once in a while, I’ll add- “Let me pick up that grocery bill for ya, sister. Go put those kids in the van and pull on up- I’ll have them bring your groceries out.”

Anyway. Clearly, Carpe Diem doesn’t work for me. I can’t even carpe fifteen minutes in a row, so a whole diem is out of the question.

Here’s what does work for me:

There are two different types of time. Chronos time is what we live in. It’s regular time, it’s one minute at a time, it’s staring down the clock till bedtime time, it’s ten excruciating minutes in the Target line time, it’s four screaming minutes in time out time, it’s two hours till daddy gets home time. Chronos is the hard, slow passing time we parents often live in.

Then there’s Kairos time. Kairos is God’s time. It’s time outside of time. It’s metaphysical time. It’s those magical moments in which time stands still. I have a few of those moments each day. And I cherish them.

Like when I actually stop what I’m doing and really look at Tish. I notice how perfectly smooth and brownish her skin is. I notice the perfect curves of her teeny elf mouth and her asianish brown eyes, and I breathe in her soft Tishy smell. In these moments, I see that her mouth is moving but I can’t hear her because all I can think is – This is the first time I’ve really seen Tish all day, and my God – she is so beautiful. Kairos.

Like when I’m stuck in chronos time in the grocery line and I’m haggard and annoyed and angry at the slow check-out clerk. And then I look at my cart and I’m transported out of chronos. And suddenly I notice the piles and piles of healthy food I’ll feed my children to grow their bodies and minds and I remember that most of the world’s mamas would kill for this opportunity. This chance to stand in a grocery line with enough money to pay. And I just stare at my cart. At the abundance. The bounty. Thank you, God. Kairos.

Or when I curl up in my cozy bed with Theo asleep at my feet and Craig asleep by my side and I listen to them both breathing. And for a moment, I think- how did a girl like me get so lucky? To go to bed each night surrounded by this breath, this love, this peace, this warmth? Kairos.

These kairos moments leave as fast as they come- but I mark them. I say the word kairos in my head each time I leave chronos. And at the end of the day, I don’t remember exactly what my kairos moments were, but I remember I had them. And that makes the pain of the daily parenting climb worth it.

If I had a couple Kairos moments during the day, I call it a success.

Carpe a couple of Kairoses a day.

Good enough for me.

-Glennon from Momastery.com

21 Months Old

2012-01-05T20:12:00.000-08:00

Well, the holiday season is officially over and I can truly say that Harlow enjoyed every minute of it. With so many friends and family members around we usually throw our regular schedule and bedtime out the window. This probably wasn't the smartest thing to do because Harlow thrives on a schedule. When it is disrupted, life is chaos and pretty much a complete melt down. Unless, someone is giving her their complete attention. Which thankfully happened a lot since some many people wanted to hold her, play with her, feed her and spoil her. The month of December went by so fast, and now here we are at 21 months. I actually had to scroll back through my blog to check out all the things we did in the month of December. It was a complete blur.

Lately I have noticed Harlow is starting to show sympathy and empathy towards others. When she drops her baby doll, she bends to pick her up and says, "You ok baby?". If Buddha or Gus Gus are whimpering, she immediately says, "Why you cry? You ok?". And the best was when the SPCA commercial came on with all of the sad animals in cages. You know the one, with the Sara McLachlan song playing in the back ground. Well, Harlow marched right over to the TV and said, "Oh puppy, oh Kitty, so sad". And when there are crying babies in the grocery store, she always say, "oh baby, no more cry".

While on vacation this past month we were surprised to learn that Harlow knew the sounds of the alphabet, EVERY letter and their correct sound! And she can do it out of order too! I figure she learned most of these from play and movies. I can't take credit for it. On our fridge we have a magnetic alphabet toy that plays the letter and its sound as well as sings the ABC's. And I also let her watch a Leap Frog movie called The Letter Factory that teaches all the sounds of the alphabet. I highly recommend it for your little ones! Its about 35 minutes long, just enough time for me to get dinner ready. Santa brought her a new one too, to learn her numbers!

Lately I have been describing Harlow as sassy. Or bossy. But I finally figured out she is neither of those, (well, ok maybe a little) she is just a really determined little girl. She wants to try things on her own, she doesn't want help anymore with a lot of things, and when she has her mind set on something, I throw my hands up and retreat because there is no changing her mind. I usually leave the situation and come back to it a few minutes later. I've decided to embrace it a little more because determination is a good thing. And a little bit of sass never hurt anymore. Harlow, if you ever read this, I hope you keep your sass, determination and drive. You'll need it to be a strong individual and I'd bet you $100 your dad will say you got it from me anyway.

Harlow's newest words/sentences:
(I was really bad at recording these this month so I'm missing A LOT!)

Needs salt
She's not here
I got you
Big one
Little one
Mail
Don't touch it
Castle
Tangled
Ocean
Play (with) kids
Chips
Presents
Olivia
Hey, that's mine (I have no clue where she got that one!)
Me, Harlow
I come with you
Get it
I have fun
That's ok
You ok?
What you doing?
Awww
My friend
Stay right there
We did it!
My names Bruce! (from Finding Nemo)
Nemo touch the butt
Go baby, go baby
Kitchen
Merry Christmas
Snow angel
Yogurt
Goodnight
Highchair
I don't like it
I'm glad
So happy
Happy new year
I fixed it
Who's that?
She's sad
Oh puppy, oh kitty, so sad
I go shopping
Throw away
I have booger
I play kitchen
I'm ok
Help mommy, help!
I go upside down
Beautiful
Grandpa ride horsy
Santa brings presents
Nice girl
Cheerios
Chocolate muffin
I come too
It's broken
Trash
I go home

Harlow's 21 Month Photo Shoot

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T22:53:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!
Love,
The Hafens
Pete, Sharmela and Harlow
2011

2011 has been a great year for our little family and I can't wait to see what 2012 has in store for us. Pete and I set our goals for the year today. It's good to have someone on the same page and going in the same direction to help you along the way. I can't wait to see how it turns out!

Here is our self-timer picture, just like last year.

Bennett Nickolas Hafen

2011-12-31T17:00:00.000-08:00

On Thursday morning Brianna and Nick went in to the hospital for a scheduled c-section. But before that, they dropped Amelia off to hang out with Harlow, Pete and I while her baby brother was born. Part way through her stay I headed off to the hospital to await for Baby Bennett's arrival with the family. I think Pete was a little unsure about watching 2 kids instead of just 1. But by the looks of things when I got home later that night, it looked like they had a great time playing with every.single.one. of Harlow's toys. Our house looked like it had been ransacked. And they were both covered in chocolate milk and pizza. And Harlow arrived at the hospital NOT wearing a bow. (tisk tisk daddy)

We are so glad that Baby Bennett is finally here and we can love on him. I can't get over how small newborn babies are. It's hard to remember Harlow ever being that small. He is just a bundle of goodness. We love you Bennett! Welcome to the world!

Amelia and Harlow hanging out and watching a movie.

They actually played really well, and shared.

Lori and Jessi waiting at the hospital.

Grandma B, Kelsey and Papa Rick waiting as well.

Because it is flu season, Amelia (Big Sister) wasn't allowed to visit her baby brother or mommy in the hospital. Instead, Nick had Amelia do Facetime on the iPad to see Brianna and Bennett.

Baby!

And finally we got to go in and see him! He looks so sweet!

And I die over those little lips. I think I have some baby fever, but just enough that can be cured by holding this sweet baby.

Bennett Nickolas Hafen
Born December 29, 2011
7 lbs 1 oz
20 inches long

Grandma Lori and Baby Bennett.

Mommy and Baby.

Family.

I could hold him all day!

Christmas Day 2011

2011-12-30T12:32:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning is a lot like juggling or putting a puzzle together. It takes a lot of planning. We are so lucky to have so many families to go and share the day with but at times it is a little overwhelming. I think at one point in our lives when we are done having kids and they are older, we will only spend Christmas morning parked in our house, under our Christmas tree. Or who knows, maybe it gets easier when your kids are older. Harlow doesn't know the difference between morning and Christmas Morning (thank god!). So she slept in until 7:15, around her usual wake up time. Pete and I got up at about 6 a.m. to get ready for the day so we would be ready to go as soon as Harlow was awake. From the moment Harlow woke up we were on the GO! We did Christmas presents at our house, just the 3 of us and then headed over to Grandma Lori and Papa Rick's for their Christmas morning. And from there we headed over to Robert and Salena's house for lunch. Then it was home again for a nap for Harlow. When she woke up my parents and brother and sister-in-law came to our house for dinner. Then we headed back to Grandma Lori's. Luckily we did a lot of my family time on Christmas Eve and the day after Christmas. I think we learned our lesson though and next year we won't make the day so long for Harlow. She completely melted down by the end of the night because she was so tired. Here is some of our day in pictures.

Merry Christmas Harlow! waking up on Christmas morning.

First stop, morning milk in mom and dad's bed (as usual).

The dogs know all about Christmas, they even know how to open their own gifts. Here they are coming down the stairs Christmas morning.

And then it was Harlow's turn. I love that I captured her reaction to seeing all her gifts under the tree.

Right away she noticed that Santa's cookies were missing. She kept pointing and saying, "cookies all gone".

She was moving from toy to toy so fast she was a blur in a lot of my pictures.

Grandma Lori and Papa Rick's house Christmas morning.

Rick and Pete setting up the AppleTv we got them.

The aftermath of opening presents.

The newly engaged couple! Dan and Natalie got engaged a couple of days before Christmas!

This is what Christmas breakfast looks like.

Then we changed Harlow into her Christmas dress and headed to Robert and Salena's house for lunch. Harlow loves playing with all the other kids. Noah especially.

Gift exchange game.

Then we came home for a late nap for Harlow. But first we did Facetime with Grandpa Brent and Grammy Rhonda.

My parents and brother and sister-in-law came over for a Christmas dinner (that my mom and dad brought).

The day after Christmas. I'd say Christmas was a success and that Santa did a great job. We had 3 melt downs in less than 5 minutes because Harlow didn't want to leave her playroom or her new toys to 1. brush her teeth 2. Change her diaper and 3. Change her clothes. Santa, please take that as a compliment that she loved her new toys and don't put her on the naughty list for next year!

we also stopped by my parents house to see my brother and sister-in-law one more time before they headed back to San Diego.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Future Olympian in the Making!

2011-12-28T15:23:00.000-08:00

Today marks a very special day, at least to this proud mama. As a former gymnast, I am ecstatic! Harlow has been taking a gymnastics class for about 8 months (off and on) which I take her to weekly. It's a special time for me to spend with her doing something I love as well. And this morning, all of her practice/play has paid off! Harlow was playing in her new playroom this morning. When I walked in I realized how much open space there was, so immediately I told her to put her "Hands down, head down" which she takes as time to do forward rolls. She assumed her forward roll position and got up on her tippy toes and pushed herself over. ALL.BY.HERSELF! It was awesome and I'm pretty sure I shrieked in excitement. I use to coach 2-3 year olds in mommy n' me gymnastics classes and never once had a baby learn to do it that fast themselves. I'm sure Harlow has a slight advantage being that she is tiny and doesn't have a huge head to get in the way like most toddlers. She did 3 total this morning all by herself. Check it out:

Cookies For Santa

2011-12-26T20:23:00.000-08:00

I decided to start some of our Christmas traditions this year. Even if Harlow didn't fully understand what and why we were doing things I want her to experience whatever she can get from it. We started off by making our sugar cookies for Santa. I asked around for a great sugar cookie recipe and found one that didn't look terribly difficult. Jessi came over one day and hung out with us, she helped/watched me make the dough and later that night Harlow and I rolled it out and cut out our cookies with Christmas cookie cutters. I even let her have her own pieces of cookie dough to create her own. I figured this year she might be a little young to help me decorate the cookies so I frosted them while she napped the next day. We made a TON of cookies so we decided to give them to some friends who stopped by. Harlow was pretty excited about that and would point to a plate of cookies and say "Terra's cookies" or "Jenn's cookies".

I had plans to find a cute plate just for Santa's cookies each year but never found one. Instead I just pulled out a plain white paper plate, wrote a note from Harlow to Santa on it and then let her color to her hearts content.

Harlow working hard at cutting out her cookies.

Taste testing the first batch of cookies out of the oven.

Showing me her cookies and offering to share.

Harlow on Christmas eve, leaving her cookies and milk for Santa.

Harlow's New Playroom

2011-12-26T18:06:00.000-08:00

Our house is overflowing. Since having Harlow, her stuff has really taken over our house. I'm the kind of person who likes everything in its place. I don't like things to be left out, or messy. Having Harlow has helped me learn to let go a little. (just a little though) Until I just couldn't take it any longer. One night I told Pete that we should just bite the bullet and make the guest bedroom into a playroom. Which meant that it would make having family stay with us a little more interesting and the possibility of having another baby a little difficult. But we came up with a plan. An air mattress for family who need to stay with us, and we do the playroom in colors that are gender neutral that can easily be changed into a nursery if need be 10 years from now. (I kid. But, not anytime soon) I already had a color scheme in mind, taken from Harlow's first birthday party. Which meant I already had some things to decorate the new playroom with. So then it was just putting my ideas into place. Which I procrastinated over for the next few weeks.

It's funny how much you can get done in 24 hours when you wait until the last minute. Which is usually a rerun of my life. I have had about 20 paint swatches stuck to our guest bedroom walls for the past 2 weeks. I just could never force myself to pick ONE. Finally, with a few days before Christmas I sat in the room during the day and picked my favorite and then did the same thing at night to make sure I liked the color in daylight and when it was a darker in the room. We went with grey walls and light teal curtains and rug and yellow accents. Which can easily be changed and tweaked into a boy or a girls room if we ever have another baby. We wanted the room to be completed before Christmas to have a place to store all her new toys. So finally with 24 hours before Christmas eve, we got to work. No kidding, we did the whole things in the span of 24 hours!

This is what our guest bedroom looked like to start with. When I say guest bedroom, I mean, junk room. Eventually the bed got moved out (and all of our Christmas presents got moved in. Which is another reason I waited so long to start, I had no where else to put them!)

Before we could do anything, we had to take everything out and it ended up piled in the hallways.

The room got painted a light grey. And Pete put together the Expedit shelf from IKEA.

In the morning, the curtains were hung and books put on the shelves.

With a little decorating thrown in really quick.

I'll post more pictures eventually of the room after Christmas. With all of her new toys. So happy to no longer have baskets of toys everywhere in our house!

Friends Home for Christmas

2011-12-26T18:00:00.000-08:00

I love the holidays because I know it means that my friends will all eventually make their way home to Fresno again. Life is never complete without these ladies. Of course it would have been great to see a few more but they were with their families. Harlow is always really timid when they come over to the house but with each visit she warms up quicker to them. It helped that she got Christmas gifts to open too.

Jenn, Terra, Me, Harlow, Andrea and Whitney.

Sad to think that the next time I might see some of them won't be until Harlow's birthday. But, I'll take what I can get!

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-26T14:25:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas routine is a hectic one. One that makes me a little stressed out. We want to make sure we see everyone and spend our time equally with each. But there is only so much you can do in a day. On Christmas eve we spent the morning putting the last few touches on the new playroom before heading over to Grandma Lori and Papa Rick's house. Every year the Klatt family gives gifts to a family in need. They do this in memory of Lori's son Skyler (Pete's little brother) who passed away. They call it Skyler's Stocking. And every year since I have been dating Pete, this tradition is one I look forward to. This always brings me back and makes me realize what Christmas is really all about. The magic of Christmas isn't just about the gifts received. I can't remember what gifts I received last year but I can remember the families that have received Skyler's Stocking. It almost didn't happen this year, but in crunch time, Lori found a family to give to and had us all meet up at Target one night to help shop for it.

The greatest part was that later Lori received a phone call from a very gracious and grateful father who promised to pay the good deed forward once he was in a place to do so.

This is Harlow inside the stocking. Yes, the stocking was that big!

All the gifts packed and ready to be dropped off.

Self-timer picture of the whole family before we left.

Getting ready to make our delivery.

After Skyler's Stocking we headed over to my parents house for our traditional dinner. My brother and sister-in-law were in town as well.

After dinner, we let Harlow open her gifts from my parents, and Dev and Aiko.

While we were in San Diego for my brother's wedding in October we stopped by a Pottery Barn Kids to look around. Harlow spotted a toy shopping cart and fell in love. She threw a huge fit when we tried to leave the store without it. So my parents bought it for her for Christmas.

And a stroller and baby doll.

When dinner was over we headed home to get ready for the arrival of Santa. After we put Harlow to bed Santa stopped by. But we missed him. He works fast! But it looks like he did good this year!

Santa: 1, Harlow: 1

2011-12-19T22:31:00.000-08:00

On Monday night we headed over to Tumble America to see Santa. We heard he was making a special stop to see all the kids from Tumble and Swim America. He came last year too. He must really like those kids. Last year when we took Harlow to see him she pretty much flipped out on us. Santa actually ended up handing her back to us. Haha! But this year we have been talking about him on a daily basis at our house. We remind Harlow that Santa will bring Harlow toys on Jesus' birthday if she is a nice girl. We taught her what Santa says (HOHOHO). And we have been reading books about Christmas. I have also pointed out every Santa decoration we come across so that she would be familiar with what he looks like when the day came to sit on his lap. Sometimes when we asked Harlow if she wanted to go see Santa she would quickly reply, "No!" and other times she would tentatively say, "Uh huh".

This year was pretty much a success. We didn't get a single smile out of her but she never cried! That is progress for sure.

Daddy came home from work just in time to go with us.

Harlow in her Christmas dress and in front of the tree.

She loved her dress and was spinning in front of the tree and checking out her dress in the mirror.

She isn't allowed to touch the tree. This is her being devious and touching it with just one finger.

Harlow looked pretty unsure about the whole sitting on Santa's lap. Dad had to give her a pep talk.

I don't think she moved an inch the entire time she was on his lap. And she wouldn't look at him or touch him.

But finally, she gave him a quick high 5.

We finally got some smiles when she got to play in the gym.

Harlow and Mrs. Claus.

Amelia isn't too impressed with Santa yet either.

Mochi

2011-12-19T22:03:00.000-08:00

On Sunday morning we got up a little earlier than usual and headed out to Madera to make Mochi. This is a yearly family tradition. I don't really know how to describe what Mochi is. It's almost like a rice cake. It is made out of purely rice. But it is heated and steamed and then put through a machine to be made into a dough like texture. Than it is divided and shaped to be smooth and round. Mochi is a Japanese tradition that we have been doing since I was a little girl. It was fun to take Harlow to it this year. I remember being young and running around the property and exploring everything. We spent a lot of time playing with the dogs and running through the fields. I made my heart smile a little to see Harlow doing exactly the same thing this year with all of the other kids. It's a little weird to think that all of us have grown up and now the kids running around are ours. Harlow had so much fun that when we got home she took a 3 and a half hour nap! She woke up with just enough time to get ready for cousin Amelia's 3rd birthday party.

There were baby bunnies running around this wood pile and also a litter of newborn puppies. This kept Harlow entertained for a long time.

Bunny!

The golf cart is always a big hit with the kids.

I'm pretty sure Harlow found a new best friend in Brian. She willingly went to him when he asked to hold her and she spent almost all of her time playing with him.

The mochi being packed into individual bags.

Harlow and Mya are born on the same day and year. They are pretty cute to see together.

Every year my dad is in charge of the fire that heats the rice.

And every year there is bar-b-q chicken. Pete looks forward to this chicken all year long.

The rice being put through the machine.

Each piece of Mochi being shaped.

Harlow and Brian checking out the puppies.

All of the Aoki kids on the tractor.

There is rice in each of these.

Check out that smile!

Brian and Harlow on the tractor.

Harlow and Mya and Brian.

Mya in my dad's truck.

Gingerbread Houses

2011-12-19T21:24:00.000-08:00

On Saturday night we headed over to Grandma Lori's to build our Gingerbread Houses. Harlow was more excited to see Amelia and didn't really have any interest in making her house. She was just pretty frustrated with me that I wouldn't open any of the candy so she could eat it. She watched me put all the walls together and that was about it. Amelia actually helped Brianna, so maybe Harlow just needs another year before she's old enough to really understand what was going on.

Trying, but not succeeding, in getting the candy open.

Harlow's naked house.

Harlow's finished house.

Amelia's finished house.

Harlow and her house.

Grandma Lori and Aunt Jessi's Gingerbread Train.

We used powdered sugar as snow. It was pretty messy.

Christmas tree in the front yard of Harlow's house.

Amelia and her house.

Strangle hold/hug.

Hawaii Post #1

2011-12-19T20:24:00.000-08:00

We recently spent one whole week in beautiful Hawaii! Thanks to my parents for taking us. We went last year with them too, and Harlow was so tiny. This year, Harlow is independent, somewhat bossy, and has her own ideas and opinions. It was fun to see her reaction to everything this year. She wasn't too impressed by the ocean on our first day. She kept walking back up to the dry sand. She eventually warmed up to it. And spent the rest of the week obsessed with the ocean and building sand castles. There are so many pictures from this trip that I decided to split them up into separate posts. Sorry if they are overwhelming!

Our first day at the beach.

She hung back a little on the dry sand until she became more comfortable with the ocean.

Building sand castles.

We met a baby from Japan who was little older than Harlow. Harlow shared her toys with her.

Checking out the marketplace.

Hawaii post #2

2011-12-19T20:17:00.000-08:00

On our second full day in Hawaii, my parents had to fly to Japan for a quick trip. So we were on our own. This trip to Hawaii, all we wanted to do was be on the beach as much as possible. And I'd say we accomplished this. We spent every afternoon on the beach. Harlow loved it so much that she started pointing out the hotel window every morning, saying, "Ocean, ocean, ocean!" She pretty much chanted this every day, all day.

Hawaii post #3

2011-12-19T12:44:00.000-08:00

We had another day on our own while my parents were in Japan. Pete humored me and us walk around and do some shopping in the morning. We bought Harlow this cute new swim suit. And she was so excited to wear it to the ocean. She really loved having Daddy build her sand castles so she could immediately tear them down. Over and over again. And that pink shovel in her hand, I don't think she ever put it down. She loved it.

I am in LOVE with this picture. I have a very similar one from last years trip to Hawaii but she was crawling to the ocean instead of walking.

Hawaii post #4

2011-12-19T12:32:00.001-08:00

When my parents came back from Hawaii, Harlow was pretty excited. Jiichan plays with her and does anything she asks. She basically has free rein when he is around and she eats it up. It's cute to see how much she loves them. She gets so excited to see them. Especially when they walked in the hotel room when they first got back from Japan. She practically jumped for joy, no joke.

All Pete wanted to do while he was in Hawaii was lay on the beach, surf and go scuba diving. He got to do all three. But I don't have pictures of his and my dad's scuba adventure because Harlow, my mom and I didn't go with them. Pete surfed for about an hour but it was pretty hard to catch a wave with so many people already out there. And the fact that the waves were pretty tiny. I think Harlow had more fun surfing than Pete did.

Heading out to surf.

We played on the beach while he surfed.

Looking at the crabs that were in the rocks.

I think that's Santa behind her. He must be vacationing before the big day.

A lot of my pictures are of Harlow's bum. She had no interest in taking pictures and was moving and playing so fast, this angle was about all I could capture.

Harlow likes to bury our toes in the sand.

And he's up!

Finally heading back to the beach.

Harlow got to try out the surf board too.

LOVE this picture of them.

Hawaii Post #5

2011-12-18T22:46:00.000-08:00

Hawaii is beautiful! It only rained one of the nights we were there, and when it sprinkled a few times you hardly even noticed because the sun was still shinning. A lot of our time on the beach was spent building sand castles, throwing rocks back into the ocean and looking for sea shells. Harlow's choice of activity of course. And man, did she get a great tan while we were there!

This is another picture that is fun to compare to last years trip too. We have one exactly like it.

She loves her sunglasses. We are home again in Fresno and it's not even sunny or bright and she wants to wear them. I indulge her because she looks so darn cute in them!

Our Last Day in Hawaii

2011-12-18T22:22:00.000-08:00

On our last day in Hawaii, Pete and my Dad went scuba diving in the morning. My Mom, Harlow and I walked around and did some shopping. But of course we couldn't leave Hawaii without one more afternoon at the beach. We have been home in Fresno for about 4 days and every day she has asked to go to the ocean and to build a castle. It's been pretty hard explaining to her that the ocean is far away and we can't go there. (I told her to ask Jiichan to take her again) ;)

Thank you Mom and Dad for a great vacation and the memories that came from it.

Merry Christmas to You!

2011-12-16T15:27:00.000-08:00

With Love,
The Hafens
Pete, Sharmela and Harlow

I don't know what I was thinking this year but I only ordered about 2/3 the amount of Christmas cards that I usually order. I think it was because I just kept thinking about how much it would cost to print enough cards AND get enough stamps. The post office is feeling RICH right about now! Lesson learned, order more cards than you think you need. So if you didn't receive one from us this year, this will have to do!

Happy Holidays from us to you!

Bach Children's Choir

2011-12-04T16:48:00.000-08:00

On Sunday afternoon we went to Fresno State to watch Jessi sing with the Bach Children's Choir. This was the same day news broke that head coach of the Fresno State Bulldogs, Pat Hill, was ousted. Crazy news. I have mixed emotions about it. He was head coach for all my time as a Bulldog at Fresno State and I spent all my years on the cheer team cheering for him and his team. Like every coach he has had his highs and lows. I feel like all the focus is on the lows and not the good he also led the team to. A little more credit should be given to what he brought to the table at his high points. Though Pat Hill will no longer be coaching I'm sure the bulldogs will have a great future. Go dogs!

Moving on... I got off topic. :) Jessi has been singing with the Bach Children's Choir and we had a chance to watch a little of what she loves. We were pleasantly impressed with the Fresno State Music Program as well. Jessi's choir was a guest performer. Harlow hadn't had a nap all day because we had just gone to a birthday party. So at the beginning on the performance we were a little unsure of how long she would last without disturbing those around us. She sat quietly for awhile watching Nemo on Pete's iPhone and listening through his headphones. But once we pointed out that it was Jessi's turn to stand up and sing things went downhill. She watched the children's choir for a little and then I think she spotted Jessi standing in the front row. And just as it got so quiet you could hear a pin drop, Harlow yells, "I WANT JESSI!" For being a little peanut she has always had a loud and clear voice. I'm sure everyone in the theater heard her. And I know Jessi heard her because she couldn't hold back a smile. Not surprisingly we left as soon as Jessi's choir was done singing.

Of all my years at Fresno State I have never been in this room.

The Bach Children's Choir standing in the front.

Jessi is towards the middle in the front row.

Chuckie Cheese

2011-12-04T16:19:00.000-08:00

On Sunday we made our first trip as parents to Chuckie Cheese. Yes, you heard me right. I almost forgot this place even existed until we were invited to a birthday party. And it really isn't a lot like I remember it from my childhood. Technology has changed things a bit. I was anxious to see how Harlow would react to Chuckie but she LOVED him. She waved at him, and wanted to give him high 5's and even took a picture with him. How is it that she loves the big ugly mouse costume but hates Santa Claus? At least Santa brings her toys! She had a blast so thank you to the Milly family for invited us to Noah's birthday!

Harlow catching her first glimpse of the mouse.

Of course Jiichan took her around to play all of the games.

She loved this ride, and it takes a picture of you while you are on it. We came home with 6 pictures. Meaning she rode it 6 times.

Harlow waving to Chuckie.

This was probably her favorite ride. She cried when it was time to get off, so she just rode it over and over again.

Brian and Mia.

This girl loves trucks, especially BIG trucks.

Noah, the birthday boy!

Pete taught Harlow how to play, I have no idea why she is doing an over hand throw in this picture though.

Mia and Erica playing some basketball.

She caught on quickly on how to put the tokens in to start the ride/game.

Jiichan helping Harlow play some basketball.

And just as we were making our way out the door, Pete got sidetracked with this.

But was nice enough to let Harlow play too.

20 Months Old

2011-12-04T15:54:00.000-08:00

Well, here we are again. Another month has passed and this one went too quickly. Time didn't just fly by, it was in super speed. I know I've said this before, but we are getting closer and closer to the big TWO year mark. And the other day someone asked me how old she was, when I replied "20 months" my heart did a little pitter patter. 20 months sounds a lot like 24 months. And then someone asked me when she would be able to start dance class (which starts at 2 years) and I replied "in 4 months" my heart did another pitter patter. 4 months?! So soon? Just saying that was hard to take in. She will be 2 years old in 4 months...

Sometime during this past month it occurred to me that we were quickly reaching the "terrible twos". Harlow definitely has her moments that test my patience. I use to be able to count to three to get her attention and she would quickly stop what she was doing. Now, she only stops to count along with me. So frustrating! She understands when she is being naughty because she is quick to say, "sorry mama". And some where along the way she learned how to be sneaky. I see her steal glances my way before she sneaks off to do something she knows she's not suppose to be doing.

My newest struggle as a mom is discipline. How do I discipline her when I know she is too young to understand a time out. And swatting her on her bottom isn't really the greatest tactic to teach her things (like not to hit, how can she get in trouble for hitting me if I turn around and swat her right back). I've also caught myself having to choose my words wisely. She has started to use the phrase "come back here right now" in general terms. Such as "Mia, come back here right now!" In the same tone of voice I use when I say it to her when she is in trouble or I'm trying to keep her from harms way. Or the simple terms we first taught her, like, "give me". "Give me the cup," etc. Now she says "give me toys," etc. Which just sounds so bratty and spoiled. But she doesn't know any better. She doesn't understand how to use those phrases in different situations yet. I have been really trying to lower my voice a little when I am explaining something to her or disciplining her. I don't want her to think you have to raise your voice to be heard. Especially because at her age, it just makes her sound bossy and bratty! We are constantly correcting her sentences. We are diligently trying to teach her to add "May I" to the front of a lot of her requests. Instead of her yelling "Milk!" we quickly have her repeat her request with "May I have milk please".

It seems like Harlow has so much to learn, but in reality. I do too!

Her newest words, sentences or phrases:

Hold hands
Holding hands
Like a baby (as in hold me like a baby)
Watch a movie
Turn it on
I'm driving
Push the buttons
Penguin
I tooted
Oh man
Look at me!
Tickle
I'm funny mom
Brush mommy's hair
Mommy's hair broken (was how she described my hair when it was in a messy bun)
She's sleeping
Stay there
I'm stuck
Gobble gobble
Oh Oh Ah Ah (monkey sounds)
Swiper no have it (from Dora)
Tail
Where's tail?
Elbow
Knee
Shoulder
Toenail
I'm tired
Good girl
Be nice
Say sorry
No thank you
Are you ok?
Donkey
I be right back, k?
I go potty
iPad
She can count from 1-13
Painted toenails
Oppsie
Cupcake
I bonked head
Poke eye
Goat
Big yawn
Broccoli
I want broccoli
Grapes
It's raining
Let me do it
I dropped it
May I have...
Baby Jesus
Angel
Christmas tree
Santa
Ho Ho Ho
Get me down
Let me try it
Madagascar
Happy turkey day
Put it away
All better
I'm screaming
Squeeze
Nice girl
Ready set go
Roll over
Amelia
Say cheese
Take a picture
Watch me
I did it!
I eat lunch
Please stop dad
Drum
Snowman
Yup
Jake (from Jake and the Neverland Pirates)
Harlow do it?
Jake and the pirates
Refrigerator
Reindeer
Yippee
Oopsie
Whats the matter?

Whew! After all that, enjoy these pictures that Harlow had no interest in taking.

It's Starting to Look a Lot Like Christmas... in the Hafen House

2011-12-03T21:55:00.000-08:00

It's December and I am just now getting my tree up. I usually break out all of the Christmas decorations the day after Thanksgiving. I actually did this year only to discover the lights on my pre-lit tree no longer worked. I decorated the house anyway but it took us a few extra days to figure out what to do about the tree. In my laziness, I just added new lights on top of the old ones. Shh don't tell anyone. But in my defense, you can't even tell. And my tree is gorgeous this year!

Funny how having a baby brings out your inner child. Mine comes screaming out during the holidays. I love the idea of creating memories and traditions for Harlow. She is definitely too small to understand a lot of them so I don't push them on her. Like the advent calendars, or the elf on the shelf. I think those will have to wait until next year. But I want her to feel the magic of Christmas and the holidays in general. So instead of doing my bronze and gold Christmas trees that I've done in the past, I made sure to bring out the bright and actual Christmas-y colors. My house is looking like it threw up Christmas. Just the way I like it :)

My sister-in-law (yes, the same one who takes our pictures) is also great at sewing. And I am not. So she made me the tulle garland (project found on pinterest) for the tree. Which I think makes the entire tree. Here it is first going up.

And two hours later (that's not a joke) it was finally finished. Just in time for Pete to come home from work and put on the star for us.

I had Harlow trained in 30 seconds flat on how to pose with the tree!

Today I took a few pictures of it in the daytime since trees are hard to photograph at night.

She likes to stand in the same spot every time I ask her to take a picture with the tree.

We had some leftover lights that are suppose to go on the trees outside our house, but instead of doing that tonight I just tossed a couple on the floor and let Harlow play. While I snapped pictures of course. (Idea also stolen from Pinterest)

Here is Dad demonstrating what to do for Harlow.

And our Christmas cards just arrived in the mail. So that is what I'll be spending the rest of the night doing. I wonder if I can get Pete to lick all the envelopes...

Family Pictures 2011

2011-12-02T14:11:00.000-08:00

Don't be jealous but, I have the most talented sister-in-law. Brianna has been taking our family pictures since before Harlow was even born. Yup, us and the dogs. Somehow once Harlow was born, the dogs got kicked out of the family portraits. Sorry guys. Anyway, these pictures are my favorite of all the pictures she has taken for us. The lighting was just what I wanted. I'm so glad she could capture just what I wanted and had pictured in my mind. Thank you Brianna for the pictures that I'll treasure forever!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-26T14:36:00.001-08:00

So much to be thankful for!

I'm never very good at taking pictures during the holidays. I get too caught up in the moment of hanging out with family and friends to pull out my camera. Last year I only have one picture of Thanksgiving (sorry Harlow). Since I didn't do much to document her first Thanksgiving last year I figured I'd put a little more effort into it. But, I didn't do much better. So instead I'll just say that I am most thankful for having family and friends to be around and spend the holidays with. To have such great people who I enjoy spending my time with. I'm also thankful that Harlow has so many people who love her. And for my husband, Pete, and Harlow, of course.

Our Thanksgiving started off with breakfast at our house with my parents and brother and sister-in-law. We are always happy when they are in town! It usually takes a little while for Harlow to warm up to them but she eventually gets to it. Maybe they need to have kids so she can play with cousins. That will change her reaction for sure! (hint, hint)

After breakfast we went over to my Uncle Robert and Aunt Salena's house for Thanksgiving lunch. We got another great meal and the company of even greater people.

After Thanksgiving lunch we headed home to let Harlow take a nap and for Pete and I to recoup. All that eating wore us out and we hadn't even gotten to dinner yet. Finally we got ourselves up and headed over to Pete's mom's house for Thanksgiving dinner.

Harlow had a full day of thanks giving. I can't wait until she understands what the day is all about. But for now, she just thinks it's Happy Turkey Day. hmmm, maybe next year...

Family photo outside our house after breakfast.
Me, Harlow, Pete, my Dad, Mom, Aiko and Dev

Lunch at Uncle Robert and Aunt Salena's house. Harlow's first real Thanksgiving meal. With some help from her favorite person.

You can always guarantee that Harlow will be your friend if you share your iPhone with her.
Harlow and Shawna.

My brother and Harlow chilling on the couch, hanging with the iPhone of course.

At Grandma Lori' and Papa Rick's house for dinner. Harlow and grandma making the buns.

And Cousin Amelia helping too.

The dinner table set and waiting for us all to sit down.

While everyone was cooking and setting up, this is what Pete did.

Papa Rick carving the turkey.

Aunt Brianna and Cousin Amelia.

Harlow sitting at the table ready to eat.

And the cousins cuddled on the couch after dinner.

At home after dinner and getting ready for bed.

On Friday morning Andrea, Jenn and Terra stopped by. So glad my friends can check in when they come to town.

And on Friday night we headed to my parents house for dinner. To spend some more time with my brother and sister-in-law Aiko.

My brother Dev helping Harlow draw a picture.

The last few days we have skipped Harlow's bed time and just enjoyed being spoiled by having so many family and friends around. I love the holiday season!

Salesman of the Year

2011-11-14T22:28:00.000-08:00

I feel like the title of this post doesn't do it justice. It's a title, but in this title, there is more than "salesman" included, at least to the trained eye (mine). I want to scream from the roof tops that my husband was the number one salesman of the year for his company, but in doing that he was also number one husband, number one dad, and number one friend all at the same time. It deserves to be acknowledged because he worked so hard at ALL of the above listed, not just his job as a salesman.

I won't lie and say that getting here this year wasn't hard. It was definitely HARD. If you don't know already what Pete does, he does sales/marketing for a home security company based out of Utah called Pinnacle Security. His job is different than most, it takes him away from our home in Clovis for the entire 4 months of the summer. 4 months out of each year is a lot, and definitely takes a toll on him and us as a family as well. It is hard and trying emotionally and physically to pack up your family and move them temporarily to another state EVERY year. But his job doesn't end and begin with the summer months, in the off-season he is still training, hiring, recruiting, managing an office and selling accounts. It is a tireless and time-consuming job that in a sense, has no real office hours. He is on-call 24/7 it seems. When a client calls, he answers, when there is a last minute problem, he fixes it. I will admit that I give him a HARD time about separating work time and family time because I have a hard time dealing with the blurred lines of it all. He has put up with a lot of my whining about it this year too. (Sorry Pete)

At the end of the year, Pinnacle has an awards ceremony for their salesman and for their technicians. It was held in Orem, Utah this past weekend. Normally I would send Pete off by himself to enjoy it with his team but this year he mentioned that he wanted Harlow and I there, and I wanted us there to support him in such a great achievement. We left on Thursday afternoon and arrived that evening. Utah is cold! I know this, but still wasn't prepared for it. It actually snowed for a few seconds too while we were in Salt Lake. On Friday afternoon/evening, Pete had to be away at manager meetings so Harlow and I were left to do what we do best, find a mall thanks to iPhone maps and do some exploring. Saturday was the awards ceremony and we headed home on Sunday morning.

On Tuesday, before we had even left for the trip, I noticed that Harlow felt warm. She was also being clingy and emotional. I took her temperature and sure enough she had a fever. Her fever never went down until about Friday. I must state, Harlow is normally a really sweet, well behaved child. But, this past weekend I think I would have called myself a liar. I have NEVER been more overwhelmed by her in my life. On top of the stress of traveling, try traveling with a sick and emotional baby. And it turns out that she didn't just have a fever, she had Roseola too. On Friday morning I noticed a patch of red spots on her forehead and cheeks. And by Saturday it covered almost all of her body. She was irritable, emotional, and clingy. I don't think she ate more than milk, Jamba Juice, water and crackers for 4 days. She wasn't sleeping well either, but she usually never does in a hotel. Luckily by Sunday she was feeling a little better and I could catch glimpses of her usual self. And today her rash is gone and she has eaten 3 full meals and snacks and has been in a great mood. Whew! She sure knows how to make a trip exciting...

We had a few of the mornings free so we hit up a park and watched some of the Pinnacle employees play flag football. Nothing like a little swinging and sliding to turn a toddlers mood around. We didn't last long because it was so cold.

Check out those mountains! They are beautiful!

Dad was having a hard time fitting through the slide.

Saturday night was the awards ceremony. And guess what we were greeted by when we first walked in! This handsome picture of my husband :) A HUGE poster-size picture I might add.

Pete's dad drove up from St. George, Utah to be there for Pete's award too. We are so glad we got to see him and Harlow immediately warmed up to him. Even though she was sick. Don't mind her "say cheese" face. I'm told she'll grow out of it. (Fingers crossed)

These 3 definitely look related.

The even was held at the Capitol Theater which was a great, old restored theater.

We started off by sitting in our reserved seats in the front but ended up sitting in the very back, alone, so Harlow could be her emotional, crabby self all she wanted without bothering anyone else (but me of course). Here is Harlow having her 382576835 temper tantrum of the weekend. So instead of comforting my child I decided to document it for future blackmail and took pictures of her terrible moment.

Please excuse the off-center and blurry pictures. I had a screaming toddler on my hip but I didn't want to miss this moment.

Pete walking down to the stage for his Top Salesman of the Year award.

Harlow finally relented a little and passed out dead asleep on the floor of the theater. Yes, I am that mom. I was at my wits end so I didn't object when she fell asleep on the dirty floor. I just went with it and embraced the fact that she wasn't crying anymore.

Pete was also given this Nixon ceramic watch. A ridiculously expensive watch he has always wanted but would never buy for himself. He deserves it!

On our way home at the airport. She was so excited about all the airplanes.

I wish I had gotten more pictures of this weekend. Maybe next year...

Harlow and I are so proud of Pete and his accomplishments. He was not only top salesman of the year but he also was number one manager for personal sales of 289 accounts but was also in the top 10 for summer managers. And in the 200 club for selling more than 200 accounts.

I love that he works so hard, and works so hard for US. We are truly blessed to have Pete looking out for our family. By working so hard it makes it possible for me to stay home with Harlow, which has always been important to me and to him. For now we make big sacrifices for bigger rewards in the end. Thank you Pete, we love you!

19 Months Old

2011-11-03T20:03:00.000-07:00

Another month down and so, so, so many more to go! I caught myself tonight, holding Harlow in the rocking chair while trying to put her to bed, thinking about what she was like just a few months ago. Before the summer, before she even knew how to walk. In 6 short months she has become her own person. I can talk to her and really know that she understands me, she gets it. She knows when I mean business and she knows how to play the situation (to get her way). This kid is SMART! Thinking about all the changes that have occurred got my a little teary eyed actually. Even though I talk about her age in months, shes really a toddler, a little person, a kid almost. She is NOT a baby. And that truly makes me sad. But a happy sort of sad. She is thriving and growing and turning into such a sweet girl. She makes me so proud I could burst. But I'm sure all moms say that.

When I compare her milestones from 18 months to 19 months I feel like there is no stopping her. Each day is new and different. I think I spoke too soon when I said she wasn't so clingy anymore. We still have issues of "mommy hold me" all day long. It leaves me feeling frazzled by the end of the day. Its not until the end of the night, when she is already asleep, that I regret not holding her every time she asks. I know, its not good for me to indulge her, and if I did my house would be a disaster. But I have to keep reminding myself that it's not the end of the world, and one day not too far from now, she won't want me to hold her, let alone hold her hand or kiss her cheek. So maybe it's a joint battle for us, finding the balance of it.

Harlow doesn't talk in one word commands anymore, she speaks full sentences. Some days she says things that really freak me out. It leaves me stunned. First of all, where did she hear this, and secondly, how does she know what that means? Her comprehension is also growing. Tonight during bath time, Pete told Harlow to squeeze the turtles tummy to make the water squirt out. She tried, and was having a hard time getting the water to come out. So he told her to put the other toy down and use two hands to squeeze the tummy. She immediately did it and squealed with delight when she got it to work.

Today I also went and got a pedicure during Harlow's nap time. (Don't worry, Pete was home.) When I got back and she woke up, she immediately noticed my toes and said, "mommy painted toes". I asked her if she wanted me to paint her toes too and she got up and walked over to the stairs and said "yeah, come on". So, I painted her 10 little piggies bright pink today.

I'm having a hard time keeping up with all the new things she can say. But here is a short (not so short) list of her newest words/sentences.

One more cheese please mommy
One more time
Right here
Right there
Draw picture please
Read a book
Car wash
Hurry hurry
Here you go
Carrots
Cucumbers
Pizza
Turn around
Zebra
Goat
Elephant
Hold me
We're home
Close your eyes
Go ahead
I got it
Sticker
Look at that
Find animals
Open door
Hold me mommy
Tigger
Pooh Bear
Piglet
Eyore
Brianna
Grandma B
Conichiwa (Japanese)
Ni Hao (Chinese)
Hola (Spanish)
Abracadabra
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
ABCDE
I'm
Cleaning
Scrub scrub
So cool
Do you hear it?
What's that?
Scare mommy
It's scary
Chair
Have it?
Go for a ride
I swimming
Daddy go work
Come back here
Ride a bike
Baby sleeping
Ocean
Get out
They're kissing
Come back here right now
Pillow
Mommy hold this
I say, What does the mommy say? and Harlow says, I love you!
She says the same for What does daddy say?
If you ask her what the wolf says she will howl.
And if you ask her what the rooster says, she does the cock-a-doodle-do
Put water on the table
Take a bite
Movie
Coach Susi
Coach Chelsea
Not right now
Nice doggie
Monster
Happy Halloween
Trick or treat
Pumpkin
Lotion
Tinkerbell
Phone
I did it!
What's that?
Come on
Happy day to you (Harlow's version of happy birthday)
Look it
Banana
Broccoli
Starfish
Jellyfish
Super
Wiggle wiggle
Tickle
Paint toes
I'm sorry
Dora
Diego
Boots

Whew! These lists are getting ridiculous. And the sad part is, this is not nearly all of it! Until next time, enjoy these pictures we took today! Brace yourself, there are a lot!

This is her, What does a monster/dinosaur/lion say?

Such pure innocent child-like joy!

Trick or Treating

2011-10-31T21:31:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

Last year, Harlow was just an itty bitty thing, barely learning to crawl but we still dressed her up. She was so little there was no reason to go trick or treating. But this year, we did it! And she actually got it. Well, I think she got it. We headed over to Grandma Lori and Papa Rick's neighborhood to go trick or treating. Of course Nick, Brianna and Amelia joined us. Amelia really understood the whole trick or treating thing, which helped Harlow a little. Amelia was great at yelling "trick or treat" (sometimes before they answered the door). I think having Amelia show her what to do helped Harlow figure it out. She got the hang of opening her bag to let the people put candy in. She carried it the whole night, she wasn't about to let go of that candy, that's for sure. It was big and got so heavy, she might have done a little more dragging than carrying. She also refused to be carried, she walked from house to house the whole time. She even whispered a couple "trick or treats" too.

Harlow leaving the house to go trick or treating. Already with her first piece of candy from Grandma.

Knocking on their first door.

We eventually made it back around to Grandma and Papa's house. Check out Amelia ringing the doorbell herself.

An excited Grandma answered the door.

Harlow and Toby.

The girls with their candy.

Walking to more houses and dragging her heavy bag behind her.

Carefully putting her candy in her bag.

Finally at home with her pumpkins all lit up.

Pumpkin Carving

2011-10-30T22:01:00.000-07:00

On Sunday night we headed over to Nick, Brianna and Amelia's to carve pumpkins. Papa Rick, Grandma Lori and Aunt Jessi also came. Brianna made us a great fall dinner of chili and cornbread (made me forget that the day was 80 degrees). I wish it felt more like fall around here. How is it 81 degrees at the end of October? I had great aspirations of pumpkin carvings this year, so I put my husband to work! Because this mama doesn't have the patience for that sorta stuff. And lets face it, he's just better at it. Amelia and Harlow weren't too interested in helping, or the process of carving... So the adults did all the work. But I guess that was to be expected with toddlers. Every one's pumpkins turned out great. Happy Halloween everyone!

Harlow checking out the pumpkins.

I've noticed I have a tendency to strip by child down to her diaper for anything fun...

Amelia and her pumpkin.

Yes, we break out power tools to carve our pumpkins.

Aunt Jessi carving her pumpkin.

Harlow checking out the pumpkin guts that she refused to touch.

Power tools + pumpkin carving = polka dot pumpkin!

Harlow has the best daddy, check out his total concentration while carving Hello Kitty into Harlow's pumpkin.

Aunt Brianna.

This is what Harlow did while Daddy slaved away at her pumpkin.

Aunt Jessi.

The finished product, glowing on our front porch.

HAPPY HARLOW-EEN!

Babysitting Cousin Amelia

2011-10-28T23:08:00.000-07:00

Harlow and I got to babysit Amelia on Thursday afternoon. I don't know who was more excited, Harlow or me? Amelia is such a sweet girl. Which makes it all the more fun to watch her. Not to mention that Harlow and Amelia are great friends. It is pretty cute to watch Harlow trail behind Amelia following and copying everything she does. They are starting to play really well together too. Harlow doesn't really understand the whole sharing concept but Amelia does and always lets Harlow have what she wants when she see's she's upset (we'll see how long that lasts, I think she lets Harlow off too easy.) I'm so glad that Harlow has a cousin who she can grow up with.

Their afternoon was packed with fun. They played with sidewalk chalk outside.

Spent some time smothering each other.

Did a little bit of dancing.

And collected some leaves.

Their might have been some destruction of the neighbors yard...

They had a popsicle break.

This is Harlow's "whoa this is cold" face.

Maybe a little fighting over the puppy...

And some tornado action in the living room.
Don't mind the paper hanging on my walls. It's temporary until I decide if that's where I want my picture gallery to go.

And some play cooking, and feeding it to Buddha.

They did some coloring.

With serious concentration.

Harlow and I would like to put out an open invitation:
Brianna, please send Amelia over more often!

Tumble America's Halloween Party

2011-10-28T22:32:00.000-07:00

Halloween is here! I was really torn this year, in dressing Harlow up in something I thought was really cute (a sailor girl tutu set) or in something she would really love (Snow White). As you can tell, Snow White was the winner. Harlow is currently really big on princesses. And she really likes Snow White. She has only seen the movie once but we read the book at least 3 times a week. I think she just likes all of the animals in the book. Etsy.com is my favorite place to search for costumes because they are handmade and unique (since I can't sew it myself!). I might be a little bias but I'd say Harlow was the cutest Snow White ever.

On Friday night we got to dress Harlow up in her costume and take her to Grandma Lori's Swim and Tumble America Halloween Party. I think she was a little unsure about some of the other costumes. Especially Coach Chelsea's alien costume. She wouldn't even go near her beloved coach that night. Or look her in the eye. Luckily Cousin Amelia was there too. Harlow had a blast tagging along with Amelia. They did story time together, monster mash dancing and bobbed for apples.

We let Harlow run loose in the front yard before we left so I could take some pictures of her in her costume.

This is what she does when you tell her to "stop" or freeze".

Amelia and Harlow during story time.

Meeting Jen the Witch.

Tagging along with Amelia.

Bobbing for apples.

Brianna's pumpkin belly! Baby boy coming in Jan!

Snow White and her apple. Get it?!

Harlow and 2 strawberry shortcakes.

Aunt Brianna and Harlow.

Grandma and Harlow.

Aunt Jessi and Harlow.

Papa Rick with Harlow and Amelia.

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-24T20:34:00.001-07:00

We have been putting off going to the pumpkin patch because it has been so hot. But there was no sign of the heat letting up for awhile so we made a little trip to a small pumpkin patch. We really want to go to Hillcrest Farms and maybe we still will but until then, this trip will have to do. Harlow knows what a pumpkin is and when we got there she kept pointing at all of them and said pumpkin about 100 times. She also tried to pick up a lot of them and said "heavy". I'm pretty sure she dropped about 3 of them, oops! This year, compared to last year, was a lot more fun because Harlow could walk around and pick up pumpkins and corn and squash to check them out. We can home with a big pumpkin for Pete and I and a little pumpkin for Harlow. As well as one of those teeny tiny pumpkins. We let Harlow hold that one in the car on the way home, and when we stopped the car we realized she had taken a bite out of it! And by the look on her face, it didn't taste good. Now we can't wait to carve them on Halloween!

Dropped pumpkin #1

Dropped pumpkin #2

Dropped pumpkin #3

Teeny tiny pumpkin she took a bite out of.

Harlow's First Bike

2011-10-24T20:08:00.000-07:00

A few days ago Harlow and Mommy were having a rough day. So what to do to turn the day around? Make a trip to the toy store! What else? We have been talking about getting Harlow a tricycle for awhile now anyway. Since it was just one of "those days" we decided we should walk around the entire store and see what else they had to play with. Before we headed home, I checked the time and realized we had spent an hour and a half at the toy store! And to my dismay, they didn't even have the tricycle we wanted! But Target did! Daddy put it together and yesterday we went for our first official bike ride. By looking at these pictures, I'd say Harlow loves her new bike. This tricycle is pretty neat, the outer ring comes off as well as the handles in the back and the shade over top. Eventually when she is big enough, it transforms into a regular Radio Flyer Tricycle. Even at its smallest setting, her feet don't reach the pedals yet. But that's OK because we do the pushing anyway.

Getting buckled in.

Her feet don't reach so we propped them up so she could enjoy the ride.

Her handles can steer as well as the back handles for the parent.

I'd say this face says it all.

Day Trip to San Francisco

2011-10-24T12:59:00.000-07:00

On Sunday we went to San Francisco for the day with Nick, Brianna and Amelia to celebrate Brianna's birthday. We borrowed a car from a friend so we could all fit and hit the road in the morning. Harlow and Amelia were so excited to spend the day together. Harlow was so excited that she only slept for about 30 minutes the entire day. Before we got to the city we went to IKEA because that's what the birthday girl wanted to do (and I never turn down a trip to IKEA). After IKEA we headed into the city and went straight to the wharf. The wharf has a carousel and of course Harlow wanted to ride it. So Harlow and Amelia each rode the carousel. Then we went and saw the sea lions and ended up eating at a nice restaurant so Nick and Pete could get some crab. After we were full of good food and re-energized we walked over to see the trolley and do a quick 30 minutes shopping before heading home. We had a full day of fun celebrating Brianna's birthday, I personally think we should do stuff like that more often!

Harlow checking out the seagulls.

And then we caught sight of the carousel.

And of course Harlow had to ride it.

And Amelia rode too!

This is probably my favorite picture of Harlow and Amelia.

Or this one!

Daddy showing Harlow the sea lions.

Pint Size Power

2011-10-18T20:30:00.000-07:00

Today is Tuesday, and I'm pretty sure Harlow knows what that means, she immediately starts talking about Tumble and Mia and bouncing. I'm glad to see that she looks forward to class each week. To be honest, I was a little apprehensive about starting her so young in class. What if she gets freaked out about something and decides she hates it, or she gets burnt out from starting so soon. But watching her grow and learn and become independent has been awesome to watch. The experience has been good for her, not to say it is because it is gymnastics, because I think she would benefit from any class. It's just a cherry on top that it happens to be a gymnastics class that she loves and has learned so much from.

Today instead of doing class with her, I sent Pete in solo. I haven't been feeling well (crazy abdominal pains which to my relief has gotten better throughout the day). Instead, I was paparazzi (but whats new?). And today was a big day in class! Harlow held on to the high bar on her own. She has done this before but no one has ever fully let go of her. Today Daddy just stood there with his hands ready to catch in case she let go. But she was strong and held on, for about 10 seconds too. She is my teeny tiny pint size power house :)

Daddy and Harlow warming up.

Bouncing on the trampoline.

And Grandma Lori came to watch and helped a little too.

Slide time. I guess Daddy wanted a turn too.

Balance beam.

And done with no help today too! (at least on the wider beam)

Tippy-toe walks on the balance beam.

Front support on the low bar.

Sideways bear walks on the parallel bars.

Hanging on with no help!

Song, Bubbles and Stamps to end the class.

Can't wait to see the progress she makes next week.

Anyone else have ideas on fun things for Harlow to do?

Dev and Aiko's Wedding

2011-10-17T23:10:00.000-07:00

On Friday morning we packed up the car and headed out to San Diego (La Jolla, to be exact) . My brother was getting married! (Finally, hehe) I was actually pretty impressed with how well Harlow handled the 6 hour trip. She only slept for about an hour and a half and spent the rest of the time watching The Dora Movie and Finding Nemo (for the 100th time). As soon as we got to La Jolla we stopped at the Contemporary Art Museum that their wedding was held at. We walked around and checked out the venue before heading to the hotel to get ready for dinner. We had a fun filled weekend of family and friends. Dev and Aiko's wedding was beautiful and held on a balcony overlooking the ocean.

Harlow and Daddy waiting for the car to head to dinner.

It's rare to get a photo of all 3 of us.
At the Thai restaurant for dinner.

The day of the wedding we got up and began a day of hair and make-up preparation. Here is Harlow on her way to breakfast.

We had some family come all the way from Japan for the wedding.

After breakfast we began a full morning of hair and make-up. While the girls got pampered, Harlow hung out with Jiichan and Daddy. And took a 3 hour nap! This beauty shop was located right next door to the hotel we stayed at. These 3 girls use this tiny location for wedding parties. They were all awesome. We sure filled up that place!

Then it was time to head back to the hotel so Aiko could get ready. I'm so bummed I didn't get any pictures of her before the wedding in her dress. Her dress was AMAZING!

We stopped by my dad's room where all the guys were hanging out.

And headed back to see Aiko and her finishing touches.

Aiko and her bouquet as well as Harlow's mini bouquet.

And then it was time to wake the sleeping monster from her marathon nap. The night before the wedding was rough. She woke up in the middle of the night in the hotel crib and would NOT go back to sleep. She ended up in our bed tossing and turning until about 4 a.m. While Pete slept most of the time, I was the lucky one who got to stay up with her.

Check out that hair!

After we got Harlow fed and dressed for the wedding, it was time to head to the museum for pictures. Dev and Aiko before the wedding.

Their wedding was beautiful, It was overlooking the ocean and sunset, I actually had a little trouble focusing on their vows because the sunset was so beautiful! We are so glad that Aiko and Dev are finally married and so excited for their future.

Harlow was their flower girl. We practiced beforehand to make sure she knew just what to do when it was time for her to head down the aisle. But you can never be prepared for all the people I guess. My dad was positioned at the end of the aisle to call her towards him, and I sent her down with her mini bouquet with the instructions to "give your flowers to Jiichan" which we had practiced beforehand. And she went, and then started to trot a little faster towards him but unfortunately stopped dead in her tracks at the half way point. I think she realized EVERYONE was staring at her. She stopped, said "No!" and came running back to me. I tried a second time to send her down and she took a couple of steps and ran back to me again. I'm pretty sure I had to drag her down the aisle. But hey, you can only expect so much from an 18 month old right? At least she looked cute trying!

Harlow and one of the art pieces.

View from the wedding venue.

Another rare family picture.

Jiichan and Baachan

As they entered for the first time as husband and wife!

My mom and dad.

Relatives from Japan.

Daddy and Harlow at the reception. I came prepared, I brought Harlow a treat bag (a bunch of stuff from the $1 section at Target) to get her occupied. It worked like a charm.

Saying "cheese".

Family and friends.

Daddy and Harlow busting a move on the dance floor.

Dev and Aiko in the photo booth.

By around 9:30 Harlow was done for the day.

I loved their flower arrangments.

Cutting the pie.

She was so tired, she never even woke up when she was handed off to someone else.

We had a fun filled day of celebrating Dev and Aiko's marriage. Congrats to them both!

San Diego Zoo

2011-10-17T21:49:00.000-07:00

On Sunday we took a trip to The San Diego Zoo! Ever since we took Harlow to the Fresno Fair and let her ride the elephant ride and the zebra on the carousel she has been obsessed with them. She has always loved animals and can tell you the name of most of them. And the sounds they make too. We figured she would love to explore the zoo and all of the animals.

Harlow and Daddy when we first entered the zoo.

She was so small that she had to sit on Daddy's shoulders to find some of the animals in their cages.

She loved the monkeys, and kept saying "come here monkey monkey".

Pete and I were stumped at this animal. It was called a Sloth Bear and it was the perfect description. What an odd animal I never even knew existed.

This bear sat here for about 2 hours, same spot, licking the same hand.

Of course I had to dress Harlow for the occasion.

The big cats were unusually active. At the zoo at home, they always seem to be sleeping. Here they were out and walking back in forth at the front of their cages.

We walked almost the entire zoo. And it's huge and all of it is on HILLS! We were exhausted by the end of the day.

Harlow and the Polar Bear. She was only brave enough to take a picture with Daddy.

She saw all of the other kids playing on the animal sculptures and threw a fit each time if we didn't let her as well.

The beloved elephants she has been talking about for the last week.

This elephant was getting his feet cleaned and was also being given a snack to distract him.

Smile!

Another big cat. Harlow kept saying "meowwww".

Another sculpture she insisted on playing on too.

She looks so small.

These guys were standing up to eat from the tree. Weird.

Harlow and an example of the size of a baby polar bear.

Surprisingly she wanted to go into the cave.

We told Harlow to say hi to Santa's Reindeer! Hey, he's always watching!

Taking a snack break and a little time to kick our feet up to relax.

And the beloved Zebras were of course a big hit.

We got to see the baby giraffe.

These Rhino's looked like they were kissing.

And right before we headed back to meet up with family, we let Harlow pick out some souvenirs. She ended up taking home an elephant and a zebra, of course!

iPhone Picture Update

2011-10-14T14:15:00.001-07:00

Time for another iPhone picture update. My phone is overflowing with pictures sometimes and I think most of my space in my phone is taken up by them. Good thing I have a new one with more GB in the mail as we speak! Hello iPhone4S! Anyway, as I write this, we are trapped, I mean driving, in the car on our way to San Diego for my brothers wedding this weekend. Harlow is currently watching the Dora the Explorer movie for the second time. And I think I've sprung a couple of new grey hairs for LA traffic. We can't wait for this weekend in SD and are looking forward to a mini vacation with family. Harlow has her work cut out for her, she's suppose to be the flower girl. We'll see how that plays out...

Anyway, iPhone pictures!

Harlow loves Diego. She sits down for NOTHING but this is how I caught her one night when I was making dinner. So in love with Diego.

Peek-a-boo is a dangerous game. We were playing on Harlow's changing table and I made her laugh so hard she doubled forward to laugh and hide her face and smashed her forehead into her mirror in the process. Check out that goose egg on her head!

My mom and dad bought Harlow these new Mickey Mouse toys. She likes to touch each one and say their names. I didn't know she even knew all their names until I watched her do that.

Harlow likes to play with our shoes. She tried on Daddy's. Perfect fit! :)

At her 18 month check up.

We headed to The Tulare Outlets one Sunday hoping to find good deals on some new Fall clothes for the little one. She watched the other kids ride these rides so we let her take a turn too.

Harlow got her first medal from swim class.

Playing outside in the cooler weather. It was a fluke, it was almost 90 degrees yesterday.

Harlow frozen from her Popsicle. She kept making this face and saying "cold".

Mommy and Harlow spent some time at the park.

I had to take a picture of this outfit. She has a bulldog on her shirt and all day she kept patting it and saying "Buddha".

Harlow helping mom make cookies.

Saying "cheese" at swim class.

Harlow chose this outfit after her nap. I pulled her clothes off to put them in the wash and she brought me these shoes and said "help". And when I tried to put clothes on her she said "no" and ran away.

Until next time!