Sweet Home New Jersey

Kate Sings Chinese Alphabet

2012-01-23T17:52:00.000-05:00

Jan 21, 2012
Kate loves singing the Chinese Alphabet from the kids Chinese class.

Kids Chinese Class & Party

2012-01-22T17:22:00.006-05:00

Jan. 21, 2012
Kate 4yr 10m ; Ivan 3yr3m

Today is our turn to have the kids Chinese class in our house plus it is just right before the Chinese New Year, we tought to also have a dinner party with a little activities to celebrate.

Teacher is teaching the kids how to make dragon. Everyone is very busy.
For little kids, they do the coloring and Mommies were busy on cutting out the shape.

There are quite a few parts need to be put together to become a great dragon.

Kate is the youngest one of all.

Look at my dragon!

Everyone is showing off their dragon.

Happy Dragon Year!

Video

I pretend to be.....

2012-01-12T20:15:00.003-05:00

Jan. 11, 2012
Kate 4yr10m

Subject: I pretend to be.........

Kate's art: a dragon, ballerina, rockster, and unicorn.

Playing My Christmas Gift

2012-01-10T19:41:00.000-05:00

Jan 7, 2012
Kate 4yr10m; Ivan 3yr3m

It is my Christmas gift but looks like they have much more fun than me.

Watching Dora & Snow Princess

2012-01-09T19:43:00.001-05:00

Jan. 8, 2012
Kate 4yr10m; Ivan 3yr3m

Today Ivan got scared of the Dori TV show - Snow Princess because there is a mean witch inside. We have read this book many times but maybe the witch in TV show is more like live which makes him scared.

I asked him to sit with Kate and also asked Kate to take care of him.

It turned out Kate asked Ivan to sit on her lab just like what Mommy will do.(Even Ivan is younger than her but not much lighter)

It looks like she can't handle the load of weight from Ivan anymore...
(Ivan! you are going to break my leg)

(Man... I ~~~ can't~~~ take~~~it~~~ any~~~m~~ore~~~)

(Ivan, are you still scared? )

Kate's 1st Soccer Class

2012-01-08T19:30:00.004-05:00

Jan. 08, 2012
Kate 4yr10m

We signed Kate up for a indoor soccer class in YMCA which is just 5 minutes away from our house. Now the kids are older so we also decided to join the YMCA's membership so we can take the kids to swim whenever we have time.

Today is the 1st of Kate's soccer class. It was a fun and active class even I had a lot of fun just watching them playing. The lead teacher had many years of experience teaching kids soccer so the kids were playing games in the whole class but every game is to help them warm up and learn the basic soccer skill. I think next year when Ivan reaches their minmum age requirement, I am going to let him join this class too.

Video (1)

Video (2)

Video (3)

Video (4)

Video (5)

2011 Christmas in Buffalo

2011-12-29T17:33:00.001-05:00

My typical chocolate cake with some winter decoration

"Pony" ride??

somebody was not too happy on picture-taking.

Look! Santa did bring me broccoli!

Kate was very into playing card. The one they are playing called "go fish".

Got lucky to get on neighbor's firetruck

Went to a Christmas store and saw this Christmas tree with all candys!

The Wachowiak's Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-28T17:30:00.001-05:00

Daddy's Secret Christmas Gift

2011-12-23T18:35:00.002-05:00

Dec. 23, 2011

What is it?

Bacon ornament & Mr. Bacon

BACON Ornament!!

Merry Christmas From Kate & Ivan

2011-12-22T18:29:00.000-05:00

12.22.2011
Kate 4yr9m ; Ivan 3yr2m

Merry Christmas!!

Christmas Dance

2011-12-21T18:20:00.000-05:00

12.17.2011
Kate 4yr9m; Ivan 3yr2m
Today Kate's danch school had a small performance for the Christmas.
The teacher said to dress something sparkling so I put Kate on the recital dress from last show.

Video

Birthday Parties

2011-12-20T18:10:00.001-05:00

12.11.2011
Kate 4yr9m ; Ivan 3yr2m
This weekend we have two birthday parties to go.
One is at Check E cheese Restaurant and the other one is at a indoor soccer stadium.

Video (Check E Cheese Restaurant)

Picture & Video (Afims Indoor Soccer Stadium)

Videos

Kate & Ivan Show

2011-12-19T18:05:00.000-05:00

12.14.2011
Kate 4yr9m ; Ivan 3yr2m

Seeing Santa

2011-12-18T19:34:00.004-05:00

12.18.2011
Kate 4yr9m ; Ivan 3yr2m

Today near dinner time we dressed up Ivan and Kate for a visit to Santa in the mall near our house. We were lucky that there was no one in line for seeing Santa. So Kate and Ivan got to see, talk, and take a picture with Santa right away. They each brought Santa a bag of home-made chocolate-chip cookies.

This is also the 1st time with Santa sucessfully for both of them since they were born.

Funny thing is after they were done taking pictures with Santa, Ivan was going to take back that bag of cookies he just gave to Santa!

Watching Basketball Game (Kate + Daddy)

2011-12-18T09:44:00.001-05:00

Dec. 16.2011
Kate 4yr 9m

Kate and Daddy went to watch basketball game last night. When they got home, I asked Daddy how was the game. Daddy said "I had non-stop comentary". I asked "why?" Below is a long story to be short by Daddy.

(After they got in the stadium and the game started)

Kate: Are there bathrooms in the gym?

Daddy: Yes. Why? Do you have to go?

Kate: Nop! just checking.

......

Kate: There is a blue team and there is a white team. I like the blue team. Blue is my favorite color. Is the blue team winning?

......

Kate: Look it! That girl has a ring pop. Do you know what's ring pop?

It's a ring with a pop!

Kate: Look! That girl has a green handband and that one, that one, and that one. Oh! that one has a orange one.

........

(After the break time)

Daddy: Kate, look it. It is the 4th quarter and there is 3 and half minutes on the clock. You CAN'T TALK until it shows 2:00.

......

Kate: Look! It is 3:29.

Look! It is 3:28.

Look! It is 3:20...........

Daddy: <:( ..........................................................

.....................................................................

............................................

Elf On The Shelf

2011-12-06T19:06:00.003-05:00

Dec. 6, 2011
Kate 4yr 8m ; Ivan 3yr 1m

My coworkers told me how "Elf on the shelf" help them to keep the kids behave in the holiday. So we decided to give it a try. Plus it is fun that the Elf likes to play "hide and seek" so the kids can also have something to play with every day.

Basically the Elf is sent by Santa to keep an eye on the kids. The Elf will report to Santa every day that is the kid behaving today or not which will determin the gifts the kid is going to get in Christmas day. Plus the Elf likes to play hide and seek so every day he/she will hide and wait for the kids to find him/her out.

I haven't read the book yet but today on the way home I told Kate that there is a friend, Elf wants to meet her and Ivan. He is sent by Santa here to watch and take note everyday how Kate and Ivan are doing. Kate was talking very loud earlier then she immediately lower her voice and asked "is he now in the car?"

This works out very well on a 4-year old kid because they totally understand and believe the story you told them. Ivan, a 3-year old, seems to be 50%. I don't think he totally gets it but he will do whatever Katie does.

Katie couldn't wait to meet Elf. When Daddy took him out of the box, she was afraid to touch him because she thought he is live. So I have to make up story along with her reaction and questions.

Kate: is the Elf going to move?
Mommy: No, Elf won't move. He just listens.

Kate: How can he hear? there is no holes in his ears?
Mommy: (mommy looked at Elf's ears and think...) Well, Elf has magic power he can listen very well. He doesn't need holes in his ears.

Kate: Will Elf get mad? Will he change his face when he gets mad?
Mommy: No, Elf won't change his face. Why Elf will get mad? You aren't mean to him.

Kate: Can Elf talk?
Mommy: No, Elf only talks to Santa.

(To make our life easier every day, I started to come out a story about the hide and seek part with Elf and also make sure Daddy is in the loop)

Mommy: Kate and Ivan, every night after you go to bed, Elf will fly to North Pole to report to Santa how you did today. Because he doesn't sleep all night, in the morning he is sleeping. So when you wake up in the morning, you will need to be quiet and not fuzzy. Then when you are back from school in the evening, he will be hiding somewhere in the house and waiting for you to look for him.

two purposes here:
(1) get them behaved in the moring
(2) give them something to do in the night time while waiting for the dinner to be ready

So welcome Elf and happy holiday!

Thanksgiving Cake

2011-11-21T08:28:00.002-05:00

11.20.2011
Kate 4yr 8m

I was making cake for the thanksgiving in Buffalo. Kate came over and said she wanted to see what is on the cake. I carried her up and let her take a look.

Mommy: Kate, do you know what is that?
Kate: ........
..........
I don't know.

Mommy:........ <:(

Kate & Ivan Show

2011-11-14T09:58:00.000-05:00

Nov. 6, 2011
Kate 4yr8m; Ivan 3yr1m

They love to entertain people a lot. Hope you have fun watching they perform.

video 1

Video 2

Video 3

Flashing Shoes

2011-11-12T21:55:00.002-05:00

Nov. 5, 2011
Kate 4yr8m; Ivan 3ry1m

We went to the shoe store to get some snow boots and sneakers. Kate kept saying she wants shoes will flash so we got her and Ivan a pair. They were having a ball with those shoes.

Video - in the bright area

Video - in the dark area

2011 First Snow Fun

2011-11-02T19:52:00.000-04:00

10.30.2011
Katie 4yr7m; Ivan 3yr

Saturday there was a snow storm. So Sunday morning we took the chance to let the kids playing snow outside because later the weather was going to get warm then all the snow will be gone.
It was a short but fun

Video 1

Video 2

2011 Halloween

2011-10-31T19:03:00.008-04:00

10.31.2011 Halloween Summary
Katie 4yr 7m ; Ivan 3yr

Daddy dressed him up and forgot the pants!

Out doing trick or treat with lili

Harvest!

Mr John from day care with Ivan

Mr. John with Kate

Love playing the drums in lili's house

Lili, Kate, and Ivan

Halloween dance in dance school

Decorating the outside for fall

Video 1 Dance School Halloween Dance

Video 2 Rocking Monkey

Video 3 Trick or Treat in Buffalo

Pony Ride

2011-09-28T16:30:00.000-04:00

9.1.2011
Kate 4yr6m; Ivan 2yr10m

Katie did the pony ride first. This was also to let Ivan observed and be prepared so he would want to try later.

Ivan was watching Katie riding the pony, meanwhile Daddy was talking him into giving it a try.

At first, Ivan was nervouse and calling Daddy and Mommy. Later on when Daddy and I talked about this, we both at that moment were thinking at the same thing "we almost walked to Ivan and wanted to hold him". But we didn't and we were glad because we didn't just walked to Ivan when he first showed nervousness, very soon he overcame his fear and was having fun riding the pony. Being parents, sometimes you need to control yourself and let the kids have the chance to solve their problems.

You can see he had smile on his face now.

They both love farm animals.

Going Out With Thomas

2011-09-26T15:49:00.003-04:00

9.3.2011
kate 4yr6m; Ivan 2yr11m

Ivan's painting but he ran away when I was taking picture.

We went to the event called "go out with Thomas"

Friends Visiting

2011-09-24T14:47:00.012-04:00

9.17 to 18, 2011
Kate 4yr6m ; Ivan 2yr11m

Video I
Ivan was being a good boy to hold little sister's hand and took her for a walk.
Mommy was trying to help on the conversion.

Video II

Mommy made chocolate cake to celebrate Kelly's birthday. Ivan and Kate were very good at singing birthday song to her but of course kids being kids, they got upset that they want a birthday party too. So everyon ended up singing 3 times of birthday songs so every kid was happy.

Cruise Ride

2011-09-01T06:56:00.007-04:00

Aug 30, 2011
kate 4yr 5m ; Ivan 2yr 10m

Videos

Ivan Making Ravioli Style Dumplings

2011-08-29T09:00:00.003-04:00

Aug 28, 2011
Ivan 2yr 10m

Since we couldn't go anywhere yesterday due to the Irene hurrican, I made around 300 dumplings and won-ton. Of course Ivan helped me for a little bit.

Daddy got this from Grand-ma and I think it is for making raviolis. Now it works very well for little kids to lean making dumplings.

Video

Videos

2011-08-04T20:06:00.003-04:00

Aug. 4th, 2011
Today my parents and two nieces are leaving back to Taiwan. A-month of USA trip is finally over. Everytime when it is the end, you are just surprised that time flys so fast and never waits for a little bit.

It was a good visit for Kate & Ivan to have a lot of time with my parents and nieces. All kids are improved on their 2nd language and bounded with each other more. I am glad that they can make this trip and are looking forward to our next Taiwan trip.

Little 'Elvis'

2011-07-24T08:47:00.001-04:00

Saratoga County Fair

2011-07-24T08:44:00.001-04:00

Chess & Checker

2011-07-24T08:43:00.002-04:00

LinLin Birthday Party

2011-07-24T08:42:00.001-04:00

Blue Berry Picking

2011-07-22T19:28:00.000-04:00

July 17, 2011
Kate 4yr4m ; Ivan 2yr9m

Today we want to do something near by so we decided to go pick blue berry in the near farm.
Because it is Sunday, the farm opens from noon. So after lunch by the time we get there, it was 94 fahrenheit!! (about 35 celsius) My godness, so hot!! The picking didn't last over 30 minutes due to the heat but the blueberries are yummy.

Video

Six Flags Great Escape Water Park

2011-07-20T19:08:00.007-04:00

July 20, 2011
kate 4yr4m ; Ivan 2yr9m

Video I

Video II - Daddy is getting dizzy in the bus....

BBQ-

2011-07-16T19:15:00.004-04:00

July 9, 2011
BBQ at home for lunch

Friend's Brazil BBQ for dinner

Kidz Corner

2011-07-16T19:10:00.002-04:00

July 13, 2011

The Crossings Park

2011-07-16T17:34:00.006-04:00

July 13, 2011

Double Water Slides

2011-07-16T17:22:00.005-04:00

July 10, 2011

Just from the garden

Bath time?

Making Sausage - continued

2011-07-16T17:16:00.004-04:00

July 10, 2011
2nd day of making sausage.

Craft Time

2011-07-16T16:45:00.006-04:00

July 16, 2011
Kate 4yr 4m ; Ivan 2yr 9m

Kate's art

Lin's (Anna's) art

Sally's art

Kate

Anna

Sally

Moreau State Park - pictures

2011-07-16T16:28:00.005-04:00

Moreau State Park

2011-07-16T16:19:00.005-04:00

July 16, 2011
Kate 4yr4m ; Ivan 2yr 9m

We went to Moreau State Park. Our 1st time here and we all love it.
Glad we went to early (around 10am)because by around 1:30pm, it started to get very crowded. Cars park everywhere and people everywhere. By getting there earlier, we have more room to play around and finding a good picnic table next to the playground for food and drink.

Video - the playground

Video - The lunch

Video - The beach

Video - The playground again

Mother-in-law & Son-in-law

2011-07-09T11:35:00.005-04:00

July 9, 2011
Dave was grilling some chicken legs, steak and veggie out in the garage.
He came in and told me that the Mother-in-law is 'messing up' his grilling.

Everytime he put down the cover and walked away, the Mother-in-law walked to the grill and open the cover!!

On top of that, the Mother-in-law was listening to the songs in MP3. So she stook right next to the son-in-law and SANG right to his ear! All he heard was Yi~~~ Ya~Ya~~~YiYi~~~~

The Mothor-in-law seemed to enjoy the songs a lot and even grabbed the son-in-law's hand dancing!! Enjoy the video.

Video (remember to turn up your speaker!!)

Making Sausage

2011-07-09T10:09:00.003-04:00

July 9, 2011

Video

Dancing: Kate & Ivan

2011-07-09T10:07:00.001-04:00

July 7, 2011
Kate 4yr3m ; Ivan 2yr8m

Video 1

Video 2

Adirondack Animal Farm

2011-07-09T09:48:00.006-04:00

July 8 2011
kate 4yr3m ; Ivan 2 yr8m

Video 1

Video 2

Video 3

Video 4

Video 5

Trip to USA - 7.5 to 7.7

2011-07-07T17:10:00.005-04:00

Kate 4yr3m ; Ivan 2yr8m

Video 1 - 7.5.2011 play outside

Video 2 - 7.5.2011 play Thomas Train

Video 3 - 7.5.2011 play strawberry doll house

Video 4 - 7.5.2011 Doing art

Video 5 - 7.5.2011 Hide & Seek

Video 6 - 7.5.2011 Outdoor Water Fun

Video 7 - 7.7.2011 Indoor Playground

Video 8 - 7.7.2011 Indoor Playground

Video 9 - 7.7.2011 Indoor Playground

Video 10 - Lunch Time

New Summer Outdoor Toy

2011-07-04T12:23:00.005-04:00

July 2, 2011
Kate 4yr4m ; Ivan 2yr 8m

To welcome my nieces and my Parents coming here, we bought this water slider so when they are home with Kate and Ivan, they will have fun playing water too.

Today is the 1st time we set this up to see how it works.Kate and Ivan had a great time playing it but the water was so cold because it was from the underground.

Many times we have to ask Ivan to get out of the water slider to go under the warm sun because his lips were turning purple. He was having so much fun that he did not care he was cold.

Video

The Little Mover

2011-07-04T12:19:00.003-04:00

June 30, 2011
Ivan 2yr 8m

I was doing dish then heard two loud sounds which sound like something heavy dropped. I went to see what was Ivan doing then he already had the kid-size couch over the other side of the family room. For a 2-year old, he is strong. I want to see how he moved this couch over here so below is how.

Video

Radish from our veggie garden

2011-06-26T18:50:00.005-04:00

June 26, 2011

Eggplant - still growing. I am waiting to see how big it can be.
We also have another type which is white color. Haven't see anyting yet.

Just got those 3 out of our veggie garden. They grew better than I expected.
Beautiful!

After showing, don't they look awesome!

Kate's 1st Dance Recital Night

2011-06-26T09:11:00.006-04:00

June 25, 2011
Kate 4yr3m ; Ivan 2yr8m

Kate (us too) had her 1st dance recital. It was a great experience for us. I am very impressed how organized the teachers and students were in the whole recital. The youngests are not even 2-year old but everything was going so smoothly that all I heard was laughing and clapping. Well job done everyone! (Two thumps up!)

Video - Katie's dance recital night
I recoreded this from my camera. Kate is the one on the far left side.
Everyone did an awesome job tonight. (Later I should have the official video which is more clear)

Video- after the performance

Recital Day - June 25, 2011

2011-06-26T09:00:00.004-04:00

June 25, 2011
Kate 4yr3m: Ivan 2yr8yr

Papa and Grandma visited especially for Kate's dance recital night today.
I made everyone's favorite chocolate cake and from those pictures below you can see how much they love it especially Papa.

Doctor Ivan and doctor Kate are examining Grandma to make sure she is health like a horse.

Video - Teeth Clearning Time for Grandma.

June-Spring Fun

2011-06-25T08:53:00.006-04:00

June, 2011
Kate 4yr3m ; Ivan 2yr8m

Video

Dance Final Rehearsal

2011-06-25T08:13:00.003-04:00

6.24.2011

Katie 4yr3m

Today is Kate's final dance rehearsal day.

She needs to dress exactly as what she will wear in recital.

The recital place is in Albany so Daddy took her there while Ivan and Mommy stayed home.

We will go watch her recital dance next day.

Warm-up at home

daddy and Kate are off to rehearsal

Kate's drawing about today.

Kate's explanation about her drawing:

Kate and Daddy in Albany are going to the dance rehearsal.

There are sun, air, 2 cities, grass, & dirty in Albany

Kate is 4 years old now but will be 5.

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T19:58:00.005-04:00

June 19, 2011
Kate 4yr 3m ; Ivan 3 yr 8m

To celebrate Father's day, we took Daddy to do strawberry picking!

Open House at Dance Class

2011-04-02T12:11:00.005-04:00

April 2, 2010 Kate 4yrs old

Today is the final open house for parents to go into the class watch them dancing on the floor. The next time we can see them dancing will be in the recital in June. After today until the recital day, we can't even watch them dancing throug the TV because they want to give us a surprise in the recital.

Katie has been particating the dance class much better than last year. It took her the whole fall to get used to this dance class. Last year she was crying and standing/sitting in the cornor in every class but this class it looks like she has a lot of fun dancing.

I was worrying and struggling should we continue or not last year but couple parents told me their kids' past experience are just like what Katie was having then in the next year they changed and started to particate. It did turn out like this for Katie.

Now I am looking forward to see her and her classmates's recital performance.

Making Cup Cake

2011-03-24T09:25:00.000-04:00

March 9, 2011
Katie 4yr

Kate's Recent Arts

2011-03-21T21:16:00.000-04:00

March, 2011
katie 4yr

Katie's recent arts start to show our arms and legs. (thank God!)

My family (only head)

Apple tree, sun, slide, and my family

Apple tree, sun, slide, Kate & Ivan.

Earlier art of my family.

Dinosaur

My family, papa, and grandma

Ivan's Diaper Hat

2011-03-18T21:31:00.000-04:00

Feb. 2011
Ivan 2yr4m

DIY - Putting Coat On

2011-03-16T21:15:00.000-04:00

Feb. 2011
Katie 3yr11m; Ivan 2yr4m

Rock n Roll Show from Katie

2011-03-14T21:14:00.000-04:00

Feb. 2011
Katie 3yr 11m

Video- Katie fixs Ivan's hair

2011-03-13T09:13:00.001-04:00

Feb. 2011
Katie 3yr11m; Ivan 2yr4m

Winter Gala - Day Care

2011-01-30T12:10:00.000-05:00

Katie 3yr5m

Dance Observation Day - 舞蹈觀摩日

2011-01-08T20:07:00.003-05:00

Jan. 8th, 2011
Katie 3yr 9m

Today is the observation day for Katie's dance class which means parents can go into the classroom to watch them dancing, otherwise, we will just sit outside watching them dancing at the TV.

Katie started pretty well but there were a couple of times she got shy because the music was too loud. Eventually she got back to the dance floor pretty quick and had a great time.

今天是珂玓的舞蹈觀摩日，家長可以進到教室裡看她們跳舞，平常我們就只能坐在外面從電視裡看她們跳舞。

剛開始珂玓跟著跳得很盡興，中間有幾次她怯場可能是忽然音樂太大聲了，不過沒多久她就又融入跳舞中了。

Building High Tower Together

2011-01-03T14:52:00.000-05:00

Jan. 01, 2011
Katie 3yr9m ; Ivan 2yr2m

What a great morning that those two were not fighting over a toy instead working together to build a high tower.

Bandaid OK绷

2011-01-02T14:46:00.001-05:00

Dec. 31, 2010
Kate 3yr9m ; Ivan 2yr2m

Earlier Kate was jumping around the hosue, then she said her legs and arms hurt that she needed some bandaids on.

Of course after Ivan saw she had bandaids on, he came to me saying he has boo-boo and needs bandaids too. I asked him where is his boo-boo and he pointed to his forehead.

Well that bandaid looks nice on you, Ivan.

Ya 2011 !

2011-01-01T14:43:00.001-05:00

Jan. 01, 2011

2010 Christmas

2010-12-29T19:50:00.011-05:00

2010 Christmas in Buffalo
Katie 3yr9m ; Ivan 2yr 2m

In the Christmas morning, when everyone was very excited to watch them opening the gifts, they both paused after getting the 1st gift from their stocking, a book.

"Property of Big Art" - the chocolate cake

Ivan was pretending to be like Katie playing the new vedio game.

Papa was trying to help Ivan on playing the vedio game.

Uncle Wack and the goof balls

Aunt Barbara and two monkeys.

Kaie was using Aunt Barbara's ipone to take a picture.

Grandma and Papa.

The chrismas gift from me to Dave - Bacon soda. Yuky!!

They made me to have a sip but I couldn't stand it just from the smell.....

I still had to have a sip. Of course I immidately ran to the sink.

No idea why he insisted to hold that plastic bag up so straight. He wouldn't put his hand down for a rest at all. In that bag there are only two bananas...

Where is our driveway???

No way to get into the house when we were back home from buffalo.

Their new favorites.

A picture taken by kate.

Love the apron Grandma got for Kate and Ivan.

A picture taken by Kate via iphone.

Video I - entertainment by Kate

Video II - playing buzz light year robot

Messages from Santa

2010-12-24T19:15:00.007-05:00

12.24, 2010
Message from Santa to Kate Wachowiak

http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/watch/guest/MIBECD62DmvhffR7eiRE6Q

Message from Santa to Ivan Wachowiak
http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/watch/guest/ky6GKxasJmk9NR54ycss5Q

Message from Santa to Big Art. (grandpa)
http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/watch/guest/2fZogvPm6MGP79KQIO0MUw

Just Videos & Pictures

2010-11-21T22:36:00.002-05:00

Nov. 21, 2010
katie 3yr8m; Ivan 2yr1m

Katie 1

Katie 2

Katie 3

Potty Dance

Wink

Trick or Treat Time!

2010-10-31T19:58:00.004-04:00

Katie 3yr7m ; Ivan 2y

This year the holloween is on Sunday and the weather is ok. No rain but still very cold.
Since Ivan and Katie are still little, so only Daddy carved the pumpkin and they did the decoration. After they were done decroation, Mommy just realized all the decoration is about Christmas which is still 2-month away. All well, these things are what I got from last year.

Later Mommy went on her 1st trick and treat with Kate and Ivan. We were going to meet with Lili's family but we sort of starting doing trick or trick on the way to their house.

Ivan was not going to put the monkey costum on untill Mommy said "no momkey, no candy" which I think is the language he can understand.

We had a great time doing trick or treat with Lili and all of the kids were doing well.

I put a lot of cloth under Katie's costum. Now she looks like a little stuffed turkey!

Went on their trick or treat adventure.

Katie was beening silly.

How nice to be kids!

Check out the treasures

Daycare Holloween Party

2010-10-31T10:48:00.005-04:00

10.29.2010
Katie 3yr7m ; Ivan 2yr

The friday before Holloween Kate and Ivan's daycare has a parade and party.
Daddy and Mommy especially left work early to attend.

Since Mommy got that monky dress for Ivan, he never want to do anything with it. Thanks to the peer presure at daycare, the teacher said after he saw his classmates put on costume, he was very excited to put his on.

Daddy stayed in Kate's classroom while Mommy was in Ivan's room.

Videos

Ivan 2-Year Birthday

2010-10-23T20:39:00.008-04:00

Oct. 16, 2010
Ivan 2-yr, Katie 3yr 7m

We and grandparents had a small birthday party for Ivan on 16th, one day before his 2yr birthday.

It was samll but sweet. Ivan and the grandparents had a great time.

The only cake Mommy knows how to make.

Everyone was sining Happy Birthday to Ivan.

Ivan, Papa, and grandma

4 of us

Actually that cake was everyone's dinner that night.

Ivan and Katie love my cake.

Papa loves my cake too.

Grandma enjoys it very much.

A gift from the grandparents and Ivan loves it a lot.

Looks like a realy guitar player

Katie was playing Ivan's gift - cash register

different gifts from friends and relatives. Thank you so much for thinking of Ivan!

Videos

Going to Dance Class

2010-09-28T08:00:00.002-04:00

Sept 25, 2010
Katie 3yr6m

Video

Liberty Ridge Farm

2010-09-26T14:41:00.005-04:00

Sept 25, 2010
Katie 3yr6m ; Ivan 1yr11m

Daddy heard about this farm from radio so we decided to check it out. It turned out we love it and it has a lot of family acitivities we can do there.

My friendly warning to you is that if you want your kids to fully have fun there, be prepare to bring at least an extra set of cloth because they are going to get dusty and dirty.

Liberty Ridge Farm
http://www.libertyridgefarmny.com/
Mailing Address:
Liberty Ridge Farm
29 Bevis Road
Schaghticoke, NY 12154
Phone: 518-664-1515
Fax: 518-664-5992

Video - Summary of Our Day

Video - Corn House

Video - Lasso

Video - Bee house

The Little Mermaid 小美人魚

2010-09-23T08:00:00.001-04:00

9.12.2010
Katie 3yr5m

Since Katie is 3yr old and in daycare now. That means there will be more social activities so we decided to get her some costum for this coming Holloween. She wants the Unicorn costum from Potterybarn kids. It was in August so I was not hurry. (I was wrong!)

Couple weeks ago I decided to place the order on-line. The bad news is the unicorn costum has been sold out! What??? Sold out?? Aren't litte girls wanting to be princess? Is the Unicorn the new trend among the kids' fashion world??

I started to get painic and searching Google to see what other unicorn costum out there. Now it is Mommy's turn to be picky. After seeing the unicorn costum from Potterybarn kids, Mommy didn't like any other similar design. So mommy told Katie this bad news and asked Katie to pick another one.

So the little Mermaid is Katie's next pick. This time Mommy immediately went on-line and placed the order.

Lesson learned. Next time in August Mommy won't be thinking it is still EARLY for Holloween in the end of October.

Note - Mommy also got Ivan a very cute Momkey costum. However, this little boy is not in the mood for a momkey yet. To try to get him interested in putting the momkey costum on, everyone in the family has been trying the momkey costum on already. (Sorry no pictures)

What I love about their costum is the good quality of material.
The cloth is soft/confortable (won't make the kid feel itchy) and the design is nice.

Look at that tummy......

Video

Playing Baseball

2010-09-22T08:00:00.001-04:00

9.19.2010
Katie 3yr 5m

Video I

Video II

Activities

2010-09-21T08:14:00.000-04:00

9.11.2010
Katie 3yr6m ; Ivan 1yr11m

I guess the paper is not big enought for Ivan so he has to pain on his forehead.

How cute he is with the huge helmet on.

Katie and Ivan both have a big head so Katie has to wear a helmet for 5-7year old kids and Ivan wears the helmet which is for 3year+.

Ivan Riding Bike-I

Ivan Riding Bike-II

3 Days in Boston 波士頓三日遊

2010-09-19T22:49:00.002-04:00

Sept 16~18, 2010
Katie 3yr 6m ; Ivan 1yr11m

Summary of The Trip

Nice Bridge

Children's Museum

Outside of Children's Museum

Acquarium
Tiny, Mini Jelly Fishs

Jelly Fishs

More Fishs!

Daddy & Ivan Playing Slide -
18th we also had a bithday pary at the afternoon. Once we got home, unpacked, ate something then head out again to Katie's classmate's birthday party. What a busy day!

Kate & Ivan Roller Skating

2010-09-10T08:00:00.000-04:00

Sept 6, 2010
Katie 3yr5m ; Ivan 1yr10m

Video

Cookie Making 做餅乾

2010-09-09T08:00:00.001-04:00

Sept 4, 2010
Katie 3yr5m ; Ivan 1yr10m

For this long labor day weekend, Daddy made cookie with Katie and Ivan. They both were very excited that they can play with the dough, cut shape, pain them and eat them at the end.

Katie is helping stirring the ingredients.

The dough is ready and Katie was trying a little bit.

Katie fed Ivan some.

Using cookie cutter to make all different shapes.

Katie is eating the cookie she made.

Playing roller skate together.

Painting the cookie.

Final work.

Katie drew herself (on the right) and Ivan (on the left) on the birthday card to Ishan.

Nice drawing.

Video I

Video II

"Hush Little Baby" by Sylvia Long 好童書介紹

2010-09-07T07:30:00.003-04:00

Sept 6, 2010
Ivan 1yr10m

This book was in one of the box with all other kids' books from either coworker or our old neighbor. Can't really remember where we got it. But since Ivan found it and I tried to sing it instead of reading it, Ivan fell love with it very deeply. I love it too.

It is the popular nursery lullaby song and you can follow this book to singe it in many different rhyme. As you sing through the whole book, you can see they all connect to be a very sweet story about what the Mommy and baby do before the baby falls sleep.

When outside is still bright, they look at the humming bird, when the sun set, they enjoy the evening sky, when the night time comes, they listen to the cricket calling and looking for the shooting star, ...... until Mommy sings lullaby then baby falls sleep.

The painting is very nice and big. Mommy rabbit and baby bunny are very nicely painted.

Ivan loves it so much that everyday I have to sing this so many times that I can rememer the whole book without looking and Ivan can sing with me too.

A great book that I want to let you know.

Hush Little Baby by Sylvia Long.

Front cover

Hush little baby, don't say a word

Mama's going to show you a hummingbird.

As that moon drifts through the sky,

Mama's going to sing you a lullaby.

Video - Ivan sang with Mommy

just videos

2010-09-03T08:30:00.000-04:00

kattie 3yr5m ; Ivan 1yr10m

Video - Kaite cut paper
Katie's mouth opens and closes with each snip of the scissor when she was cutting the paper.

Video - Goffy Katie, watch!

Video - Katie teaches Ivan

Just for memory

2010-09-02T08:03:00.000-04:00

Aug. 26, 2010

Ivan 1yr10m

First of all, Mommy didn't want to dress him like this. Ivan saw Katie put the princess dress on so he wanted to try that too.

This is just for memory.

Job Opening - .Net Developer

2010-09-01T05:47:00.001-04:00

My company is looking for web developer. Here is the job description.

Job Title: .Net Developer / Information Technology

Company: Amsterdam Printing

Location: Amsterdam, NY

Job Summary:

Amsterdam Printing currently has an opening for a Web Developer to join team responsible for development and maintenance of e-commerce and business systems.

Key responsibilities include:

■ Analysis and implementation of web and windows applications
■ Quality assurance including unit testing, bug reports and automated notifications
■ Following new technology and best practices, enhancing technical policies and standards
■ User training and documentation
■ Other duties as assigned

Proficiency and Skills Required/Job Requirements:

■ Bachelor degree in Computer Science or related field
■ 2 years of programming experience
■ Experience with C# ASP.NET, SQL Server, IIS
■ Good knowledge of SQL
■ Good knowledge of HTML/CSS/JavaScript
■ Ability to work independently and in team environment
■ Ability to work closely with users throughout the lifecycle of an application

The above ststements are intended to describe the nature and level of work being performed and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities and skiss required of the people assigned to this job. Other duties and responsibilities amy be assigned as determined by the company.

Thatcher State Park

2010-08-31T08:35:00.002-04:00

Aug. 28, 2010
Katie 3yr5m ; Ivan 1yr10m

Today we checked out this Thatcher State Park recommended by our coworker.

There was no better time to come here for a picnic than today. It was beautiful day with cool breeze and only a few people here.

We stopped at this overlook area to take a view of the scenery.

Then we found this Pear Tree playground to be our stop for picnic.

Ivan and Katie were looking for acorns.

Lunch time!

Play time!

Daddy kicked the ball way high to the sky.

Both wanted to be on Daddy's shoudlers.

Didn't want to disapoint both so Daddy carried both.

You go, daddy!

pear tree

Time to go home.

From our Garden 來自我們的菜園

2010-08-30T08:14:00.001-04:00

Aug 26, 2010

Now the tomatos are riping one after one, everyone we always can pick a bucket full.

A nice surprise - seeing ladybug. Katie and Ivan were very excited.

Radish from our garden.

Just Pictures

2010-08-29T08:05:00.002-04:00

Katie 3yr5m ; Ivan 1yr10m

Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head

2010-08-26T08:00:00.002-04:00

Aug. 15, 2010
Katie 3yr4m ; Ivan 1yr10m

NYC Trip

2010-08-25T08:09:00.002-04:00

July 31, 2010
Katie 3yr 4m ; Ivan 1yr9m

Mitsuwa Japanese Supermarket

In the subway to time square

time square

central park

Video

Altamont Fair

2010-08-24T08:05:00.003-04:00

Aug. 21, 2010
Katie 3yr4m ; Ivan 1yr9m

Today we went to the Altamont Fair with neighbor.

I liked it a lot because it is very kids and family oriented. There were a lot of farm animals like bunnies, cats, cows, sheets, hores, and a lot of rides for kids. The weather was nice with cool breeze and not too much sun.

Especially with the company of Lili's family, we all had a great time. Lili went on her first ride with Mommy's company instead of sitting with Katie. They both did very well in their rides alone.

Ivan want to ride everything the girls did but due to his height, he only got to ride couple with Mommy's company. I think it has been a while since last time I got on those rides, I actually felt sick after the 1st ride with Ivan.

One time Katie was ride a catipillar all by herself. She looked so confident and enjoyed her ride a lot.

When you have little kids, the key to those fairs is to be there early then you can take your time to walk around seeing the animals then play those rides when they are just open. When the crowd starts to come, you are already having a lot of fun and ready to go home.

Bunnies!

Katie, Lili, Lili's Mommy

Giant Rabbit and tiny rabbit. The giant rabbit is like a dog.

They are not statues. They are live birds!

Ivan was checking out the cow (jumping over the moon)

How cute!

Here is all different ducks, geese, and chickens!

Look, this chicken just had a hair-do.

like an art on the feathers

beautiful tail feather

sheeps and goats!

bloomin' - a whole onion got cut, breaded, and fried. Yummy!

When you have kids, it is time for you to retake all the rides you used to do in your child time.

Katie, Mommy is doing this for you.

Oh my! Did I look like I was scared?? So how much fun Katie was having.

Ivan's 1st Roller Skate 第一次溜四輪鞋

2010-08-22T16:50:00.003-04:00

Aug 21-22, 2010
Ivan 1yr9m

Ivan took Katie's roller skate to me and asked me to help him put them on.

I held his hands and walekd with him for one round then he was on his own. Surprisingly he did very well that we bought another pair for him next day.

I do believe when they are little, it is the best time to learn this because their balance is low and they are fearless!

艾瑋拿著珂玓的四輪鞋要我幫他穿上。

之後我牽著他的手家裡走一圈後，他就自己玩了，真是年紀小學真快。隔天爸爸幫他也買了一雙讓他好好玩。

我一直認為趁年紀小是玩這些的好時候，重心低加上根本還不知什麼叫害怕，學的最快。

Video-Ivan's roller skate

Video-Ivan's Potty dance

畢卡索? Picasso

2010-08-17T20:00:00.001-04:00

Aug. 13, 2010
Katie 3yr4m ; Ivan 1yr5m

Ivan's art work

Katie's art work

包粽子 Making Glutinous Rice Dumpling

2010-08-15T14:23:00.004-04:00

Aug. 14, 2010
Katie 3yr5m ; Ivan 1yr9m

Today we gathered in a friend's house to learn making glutinous rice dumpling.

I have been missing this traditional dish even though the asian supermarket are selling them here, the taste is way different when you make them by your own.

Here are all the fillings friend has already prepared in advance.
The fillings are sweet rice, pickled radish, chinese mushroon, salted duck york, chicken, dried tofu, dried shrimp, and peanut.

Katie and Ivan were having fun hanging out with big brothers and sister.

Dave wanted to learn how to make one. Actually he did pretty good.

Euroya was very patient teaching Dave how to wrap the bamboo leaves with all the fillings.

Dave was trying to figure out the right method to fold those bamboo leaves.

After wrapping the bamboo leaves with the filling well, we need to tie the whole rice dumpling on a string.

Ta-da! Dave's first hand-made rice dumpling. Looks pretty good.

About 20 in one bundle then we cook them in hard boiling water about 20 minutes.

I was very excited to learn this traditional dish because once I got it, I can make them by myself anytime I want them.

Dave just finished his 1st one then he was so confident to teach the new student how to make rice dumpling. Actually he did pretty good. Since then he got a new nickname, professor Dave.

After the rice dumpling is cooked, you take the bamboo leaves off, here is what all the filling looks like. (kind of a triangle shape)

Mis-Understanding

2010-07-26T12:29:00.001-04:00

July 26, 2010
Katie 3yr4m

In the morning Katie was sitting on Daddy's lap and drinking milk.
Mommy said "Katie's eyes are dirty. Lets don't forget to wipe her face".

Then Mommy heard daddy saying "I pooped", stopped for 2 seconds then asked "what??"
Daddy seemed to repeat again "I pooped".

Mommy said "I don't see what is the connection between wiping Katie's face with you pooped".

Daddy pointed to his eyes and said (slowly but loudly) " EY.....EEEEE POOOOOP......". (sorry, I am not a native speaker...)

1st Harvest 第一次豐收

2010-07-24T11:06:00.003-04:00

July 23, 2010
Katie 3yr4m ; Ivan 1yr9m

Basils