Lam Family

July 4th Festivities!

2008-07-11T07:40:00.000-06:00

Here we have some pics of our festivities at the Bellevue downtown park! An exciting time for all!

To Be Continued on a New Blog!

2008-06-08T17:23:00.003-06:00

Since blogspot has limited the number of photos on our blog and we've reached the maximum, to see the continuation of our adventures, please see http://SimplyLam.blogspot.com.

In New Ulm

2008-05-23T18:55:00.005-06:00

Our family is now reaching the end of our time spent in Minnesota. We were lucky enough to get a nice vacation and some time spent with family before our Seattle summer adventure begins. We'll be leaving for Seattle on May 27. We've had a fantastic time here in Minnesota doing all the "New Ulm things" that were on our list. We've climbed Herman the German, we've eaten at the Kaiserhoff, we've bicycled all over town with Nina in a great bike trailer, seen the Glockenspiel, enjoyed the freedom of a car, and watched Nina get super excited over silos, cows, horses and tractors! We'll be posting more pictures of our Minnesota escapades as soon as we get time to upload them. Hope everyone is well!

More spring pictures

2008-04-27T12:32:00.000-06:00

Spring in New York City

2008-04-27T12:22:00.004-06:00

Spring has sprung! The weather here in New York City has been fabulous lately. We've been enjoying the 70's and spending our days in the parks around the city. Nina has been loving sandals, sun dresses, shorts, swings and slides. We've had some picnics in Central Park and enjoyed one last ride on the carousel before we leave for the summer. Enjoy some pictures we've taken this spring. I'll be posting more above. I hope everyone is enjoying spring as much as we are!

Bringing Generations closer: Connecting the world via Mobivox

2008-04-12T12:43:00.003-06:00

This morning, I am happy to report that Nina spoke with Popo on the cell phone and because our cell plan has free weekend minutes and we used Mobivox to call Popo in Singapore, the call was free! I'm looking forward to more conversations bridging the generation and geographical gap!

Road Trip to Montreal

2008-04-06T20:04:00.001-06:00

Nina's first McDonald's milk shake! "Save some for me!"

Some of the Adirondacks mountains!

Easter Egg Painting and Tower Building

2008-03-26T16:03:00.001-06:00

2008-03-20T14:39:00.001-06:00

Spring Break fun!

2008-03-20T14:19:00.003-06:00

We had a fantastic Spring Break! Though we didn't take any exotic trips like Nick's classmates, we probably had more fun. The beginning of the week was filled with excitement because Nicolas received his second offer, the one he took, for an internship. He quickly flew to Seattle on Sunday and met everyone at T-Mobile on Monday morning. That same evening, he flew back to New York, slept a very short night and then went early the next day to pick up a rental car. He came by the apartment and picked up myself, Nina and Milo for our short road trip to the Catskills. We had arranged to stay in a pet-friendly hotel with an indoor swimming pool to cover all of our bases. When we arrived, we checked in and were pleasantly surprised by the hotel and our room. It was great! We stayed only one night, but went swimming 3 times! Nina also really enjoyed the really huge bed with all the pillows.

When we got back, we continued the fun by going to Hippo Park with Nick, something that Nina had been requesting we do for a long time. She had a blast with Nick going down slides, running around, swinging and climbing. We can't wait for spring!

Below are some pictures from our trip, we stopped at West Point along the way and Hippo Park. Enjoy! I hope everyone is well.

City Girls

2008-03-05T12:18:00.002-06:00

Nina and I have really been enjoying the weather here in New York CIty. Its been in the 50's this week and we've taken full advantage. Nina has rediscovered her love for all things outside. On Monday, we walked to Hippo Park (at 91st and Riverside Dr.) with our friends Alex and Douglas. The park is fantastic. It has several playgrounds, hippo statues to climb on, slides, a ton of swings with really long chains so Nina can go really high! Enjoy some pictures from our fun day. I hope everyone is well.

Popo

2008-02-15T20:17:00.002-06:00

I just spoke with my Mom on the phone. It's her Saturday morning in Singapore the day of the operation scheduled for 2pm her time. I will not be speaking with her again prior to the 6-hour major operation. I pray that all goes well. Please pray with me that God's will be done.

Dressing Up!

2008-02-14T17:45:00.001-06:00

I REALLY like curry!

I'm a chef and I like pretending to cook and calling people on my cell phone!

Some Precious Moments

2008-02-14T17:44:00.000-06:00

The Ferry

2008-02-04T20:25:00.000-06:00

The Staten Island Ferry (and the Statue of Liberty)

Walk in Central Park

2008-02-04T20:24:00.000-06:00

Videos + Nina cozy with Milo!

2008-01-21T09:56:00.000-06:00

Nina cozy with Milo on the Couch

Nina saying "Dad, Take follow-the-leader picture" which may need some translation :D

13 sec

Nina singing - ABC / Baa baa Black Sheep

56 sec

Latest Pics!

2008-01-21T09:42:00.000-06:00

Wrapping up my week in Singapore. I had a wonderful time talking with my Mom, Dad, and Greg.

Nina dressing up in winter clothes.

One More Day

2008-01-17T06:44:00.001-06:00

I've had the privilege to spend time with my parents and Greg here in Singapore. Time has flown by as we have chatted about lots of things. Today we went to out to eat at the American Club for dim sum. It is the rare occasion when Mom has the strength to eat out. I enjoyed the food and the conversation, but it was quick.

It's tough to see your parents weak and tougher to see them suffering and/or in pain. The entire process puts things into perspective. For me it has helped me focus on my values and the importance of priorities.

I leave Singapore for New York on Saturday morning.

Updates

2008-01-14T19:57:00.000-06:00

There was this big hype and build up for a large snow storm to hit manhattan expecting 4 to 8 inches of snow fall on this past Sunday night (Jan 13). Nothing, nada! Nina had been expecting to play in the snow on Monday, but it was not possible.

Erin told me that she and Nina watched Disney's Beauty & the Beast for the first time today (Monday Jan 14th). At first, Nina was scared of the Beast, but by the end, she really liked the Beast because "he's really a man." Nina really liked the music. I'm happy to hear that she has good taste! I loved the soundtrack also.

Nina's latest passion is coloring books! Thank you Auntie Shannon for that wonderful Christmas present for she "devoured" it and is doing regular coloring books instead of the special no-mess version that you gave. Nina simply loves coloring and has not been playing with her toys as much.

I went for a little jog this morning here. I realized that I had never run outside in Singapore before! Any running exercise had been on a treadmill at the club. I think I realized why that is!

I'm looking forward to the big monsoon storms again today. It really cools the place off!

In Singapore

2008-01-13T23:35:00.000-06:00

Welcome to Singapore! The Merlion city. Warmest regards to all from the humid hot city state country!

I had a chance to speak with my Mom. I went to the grocery store with my father.
It's my younger brother's birthday today (January 14th): Greg. Lots of special things are going on today.

Greg cooked his specialty: rice with steamed Dory fish (a white fish) with ginger and spring onions. The sauce is an olive oil, garlic, and soy sauce! Delicious! Thank you Greg. He added a stir-fried Chinese vegetable with garlic and a steamed broccoli also with garlic.

If you'd like additional info regarding the recipe, let me know. Bon appetit!

Friday

2008-01-11T18:31:00.000-06:00

It was raining this morning, but relatively mild. I got bagels for Erin and Nina during a morning run. We love the occasional bagel from the place my brothers introduced me to: Absolute Bagels. We particular like the Everything bagel.

I had two interviews today: Fidelity Investments & Sanford Bernstein.

I finished reading a couple of books: The Complete Turtle Trader by Michael Covel and Rule #1 by Phil Town.

Tomorrow I'll fly to Singapore.

Latest Updates

2008-01-09T10:24:00.000-06:00

Today Erin, Nina, and I went to Nina's second "class" for Music Together. It is 62 degrees and drizzling out. It was nice to be able to join them at their class, to sing, dance, and smile a bit.

Unfortunately my Mom's health continues to deteriorate with the latest blood test. Please go to her blog for more information.

I will be going to Singapore to spend a few days with her, Dad, & Greg next week. I pray that I will be fully living in the present.

This Friday, I have two interviews: Fidelity & Sanford Bernstein. We shall see how they go.

Erin and Nina are fighting a cold. We're all glad that we received our Urban Organic deliver yesterday for we were craving fresh juice :D

Random Thoughts

2008-01-06T12:09:00.000-06:00

Nina likes blue corn chips with medium garlic cilantro salsa and drinks water to "put out the fire in my mouth!"

Nina and her impressions of Milo :D That's a funny visual story.

Poetry: We got a book for Nina for Christmas called "Where the Sidewalk Ends" by Shel Silverstein. Erin read one poem to her tonight about a crocodile and a dentist. While laying in bed, Nina was reciting her version of the poem!

Some Highlights

2008-01-02T19:30:00.000-06:00

Nina has a sense of humor that was enjoyed and appreciated these past few weeks. She was saying you "sassy" one and big "galoot" as she repeats what people say. Nina had a sniffle these past couple of days. Today, we were shocked to hear that someone close by had a tragedy yesterday: 2 year old boy dies from the cold.

Nina's vocabulary is large: "I'm looking for my firetruck, and my firemen" and on and on. She has an incredible vocabulary that makes her seem that she is not even 2.5 years!

Tonight we watched the movie based upon the true life of Evelyn Ryan called The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio. Released in September 2005 with little publicity, this movie mixed bitter and sweet with historical reality.

Last set of Pics!

2007-12-26T14:07:00.000-06:00

Nina in her makeshift "bed"

Nina on Aunty Shannon's lap, with Erin, opening one of the hound's Christmas presents.

Cousin Lydia and Nina. All smiles! :D

Nina with her Christmas present: a stroller pushing Mousey and Georgia around :D

More Christmas Pics

2007-12-26T14:01:00.000-06:00

Grandma Russell and Nina in the kitchen.

Nina watching Grandma Russell make corn!

Nina and her makeshift "bed"

Some Christmas Pictures

2007-12-26T13:53:00.000-06:00

Nina helping to bake!

Nina helping to put away groceries. Such a great helper!

Nina and Erin doing Almond bark covered pretzels! Yum!

- Thanks to Erin's Dad for the pictures -

Days before Christmas

2007-12-22T16:51:00.000-06:00

A Merry Christmas from the chill of Minnesota!

News

2007-12-17T21:24:00.000-06:00

One more final to go for this first semester to be done. We've been given the book The Goal by Goldratt to read over the break. I quickly read Professor William (Bill) Duggan's latest book: Strategic Intuition recently and learned some interesting facts about Picasso, the Google founders, and a few others.

On my parents' front, they are at a cross roads for all of the other tumors have been beaten, except for the original source. This one's ugly head has resurfaced and radiation is being considered.

December!

2007-12-15T08:39:00.000-06:00

Erin and Nina are in Minnesota. I've been wrapping up classes, submitting resume/applications for jobs, and studying for finals. Unfortunately I will not be able to provide a picture of our Christmas tree since our digital camera stopped working :O!

Please send us a message! Merry Christmas!

Through the Night!

2007-11-27T08:16:00.000-06:00

This morning, Nina woke up and her diaper was dry! She even had some water before going to sleep.

We are also looking forward to my parents visiting this morning. Tonight they will take the plane back to Singapore.

She knows what she wants

2007-11-16T07:54:00.000-06:00

Nina knows exactly what she wants. Every night, she gets to choose a song for us to sing right before she goes to bed. We started with nice slow songs like Edelweiss, but somehow she started choosing songs like Old MacDonald. The latest request is yet more unusual for a bedtime lullaby: Feliz Navidad!

Every morning, Nina gets up and comes into bed with us to snuggle. This morning I requested a snuggle from Nina and proceeded to put my arm around her. I was quickly and sternly informed that, "This girl is only for Mommy."

My parents arrived on Tuesday safely. We're looking forward to time with them this weekend. Erin and Nina spent Wednesday morning with them. Nina really enjoyed herself and didn't take much time to warm up at all.

Our girl is growing up!

My Parents Are Coming

2007-11-12T21:24:00.000-06:00

My Parents are coming. They'll be arriving tomorrow from Singapore (via Mauritius). While in Mauritius, they attended the wedding of one of my cousins.

Nina is finally recovering from her cold.

Next week, Erin's younger sister will be visiting for Thanksgiving.

An exciting next couple of weeks.

Christmas Tree

2007-11-11T17:15:00.001-06:00

Today we put up our artificial Christmas tree in Nina's room! (It's the only room with space for it). Pictures coming shortly.

Graduation for Nina

2007-11-10T19:06:00.000-06:00

Nina stopped using her booster seat at the dining table this week!

Day 3 Potty Training

2007-11-07T23:58:00.000-06:00

Nina had another successful accident-free potty training day! Wooo hoooo! She is off of the timer and Erin and I are discussing the best way to get Nina to start using public restrooms.

P is for Potty Training

2007-11-06T19:46:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, Nina did most of yesterday potty training. She had two accidents yesterday. She had her first "underwear" outing that was 15 minutes long! She was excited and loved the new found freedom.

Today, Nina went the entire day without an accident. We had the timer going and she had an accident-free day! Wooo hooo!

Nina and friend Dougie

2007-11-04T18:23:00.000-06:00

Here are some pictures of Nina at the playground at Riverside Park. New York is amazing. They have so many parks available for kids, plus the playgrounds are really nice and new. They all have rubber or at least sand below the climbing equipment. They really bring out Nina's inner monkey! We often go with her friend, Dougie, and his mom, my friend, Alex. This week we don't have any big plans. We're going to Sakura Park Monday for a playdate, Tuesday we have yet another preschool tour and Thursday is Nina's music class.

This weekend we had a pretty good time. We're preparing for the arrival of Milo. We're flying him back with us at Christmas and he'll become a city dog! We're really looking forward to it! We're also awaiting the arrive of Nick's parents! They are going to in New York for two weeks around Thanksgiving. November is family visiting month because my younger sister, Shannon, is going to be visiting us over her Thanksgiving vacation. I'm just so excited to see familiar faces, not that I don't love New Yorkers...

Hope everyone is well and had a fun Halloween!
Erin

Some Recent Videos of Nina

2007-11-04T15:17:00.000-06:00

Nina and the Salad Spinner, Wee! (18 sec)

Lighting of Mr. Smiley (the Pumpkin) (45 sec)

Nina in her Giraffe Costume

Pumpkin carving and our little giraffe...Its Halloween!

2007-11-04T15:10:00.000-06:00

It's Getting Cold

2007-11-03T13:16:00.000-06:00

It's getting cold here in the Big Apple. We have Halloween Pictures, lighting the pumpkin, videos of Nina at the park, and right now Nina is on a chair making proclamations. Unfortunately I am not completely fluent in Nina-speak.

A warm greeting to everyone reading this. Drop us a line!

BTW, since Halloween, Nina likes the candy: "Baby Muffin" which is a mini Reese's Peanut Butter! :D

It's P Time!

2007-10-19T09:32:00.000-06:00

Nina is doing potty training today! She already goes #2 on the toilet, Erin's focusing on having Nina go #1. Nina was watching Bob the Builder and just told Erin that she needs to go. Quickly they hurried and she went! Congratulations Nina!

One Year Ago

2007-10-07T13:03:00.000-06:00

It's hard to realize what a year is, in terms of development for someone as little as Nina. Check out the pics below.

Pics

2007-10-04T18:48:00.000-06:00

Gone fishing

2007-09-26T13:01:00.001-06:00

This morning Nina and I did something I would have never thought we could do in New York City, FISHING!

Nina and I walked to Harlem Meer in Central Park where they rent bamboo fishing rods to people for free. They give some corn to put on the hook and send you out to see what you can do. We didn't catch much of anything, but Nina had a ball! She held the pole like a pro and really enjoyed herself.

After our fishing expedition was over, we went to a very unusual playground in Central Park. It was all quite new, but everything was modern. It was supposed to be that way to give kids imaginations a workout. Instead of having obvious animals or things to climb on, there the kids could pretend they were on a boat, or a train, or whatever...

Tomorrow Nina and I will be starting our Music Together class. We attended a free demo to check it out and Nina adored it. She danced for about 45 minutes straight! I had to register! Afterwards, we'll be hitting our favorite sandbox at Sakura Park for a playdate. It is amazing how busy Nina and I are now that we're here in New York. There is always something to do or places to go. We're really enjoying ourselves and our New York City experience!

Sidenote: We're super excited to see my sister, Shannon, who will be joining us for Thanksgiving in New York this year. We'll actually be able to go to the Macy's parade instead of watching it on TV!

I hope everyone is enjoying fall. Nick and I have been missing our favorite apple orchard, Minnetonka Orchards, where we used to go every fall in Minnesota. So far, that's the one thing I can't seem to find in NYC! A nice apple brat and apple doughnuts, yum!

Sharon's Sorbet

2007-09-26T10:30:00.001-06:00

We had purchased two pints of sorbet (in a 2 for 1 special) called Sharon's Sorbet. For dinner on Monday night, Nina had eaten really well so Erin gave Nina the choice for dessert, "Nina do you want the raspberry or coconut sorbet for dessert?"
Nina thought, said, "Um, raspberry." Each of us got a portion. After scrumptuously eating her portion, Nina then asked, "Bite of coconut!" :D

Of course she had to wait until the next day to try the coconut, which I might add is pleasantly and surprisingly rich and creamy! Coconut is DEEEEEEELICIOUS!

Yesterday Erin baked her famous Ginger Snap cookies. Yesterday and today, Nina has been gobbling them up after meals! For dinner tonight, Erin asked Nina what she would like for dessert? Erin was expecting Ginger snap since that had been the predominant trend. Nina responded with, "Coconut ice cream!" Memoire elephant!

TV stars

2007-09-19T12:28:00.000-06:00

The story begins with Nina and my meetup group. We're just a group of moms on the upper west side that get together regularly. Our coordinator was contacted by the Tyra Banks show looking for models. Nina and I sent in our pictures and we got a call about it, but the clothes Nina was supposed to model for the show were way too small for her, so we ended up getting an invitation to be in the audience of the show. (One of our friends actually ended up being picked to model.)

This morning was the live recording of the Tyra Banks Show and Nina and I made our way all the way downtown to be in the audience. There was a line, but Nina and I were on the "list," so we were in! We had good seats, way in the back on top to see everything, but out of the way in case Nina didn't like it. Well, it turns out she loved it. She cheered and clapped along with everyone else. I have to say, though, the best part about it was the free stuff! Nina got 2 new dresses for next summer, California Baby soaps and lotions, a free Diaper Dude bag and some other stuff. It was an experience, but not one that I'll be wanting to relive anytime soon. The waiting was torture for Nina, the show itself was really boring and they paused taping WAY too many times to "fix" Tyra's hair, makeup or clothing! (Oh, and she really isn't that great looking in person!) My last comment will be that she needs to think about her clothing choices for the show. Today, for the toddler show, she wore a short black mini dress...then tried to get down on the floor to do baby yoga.

I'll post the date of the airing of the episode we were at if anyone wants to try and pick us out.

The entire thing was pretty ridiculous, but an experience that we'd only have in New York City!

Erin

F A O

2007-09-18T14:35:00.000-06:00

Nina and her friend having fun at FAO Schwartz on the "BIG" piano.

Latest Picture

2007-09-17T23:31:00.001-06:00

Dad & Mom. Notice Mom's hair, growing back nice and long. It's also reverted from white to black!

A great fall weekend

2007-09-17T19:59:00.001-06:00

I haven't posted in awhile, but I thought that I should post about how much Nina and I are loving New York in the fall!

This past weekend was fantastic. The highs have been in the upper 60s and low 70s. On Saturday, we spent time at an outdoor far on Broadway. There was food (gyros, falafel, fried dough), some clowns that made balloon figures for Nina, and a great variety of people for people watching! Sunday morning we made our way to Queens for church, which takes up the morning and then in the evening we got take out from a soul food place, Rack and Soul. It was delicious! Even our mostly vegetarian, Nina, gobbled the bbq pulled pork!

Today, Nick was back to classes and events, so Nina and I were on our own for activities. We decided to head to Central Park, which means a train ride. We got off at 72nd and made our way to a small drug store where they have a great little Bob the Builder ride for kids. Nina got to ride it today and was thrilled. We then walked to Central Park and made our way to the carousel. Nina loved riding it so much, that we ended up going twice! It was the fastest carousel I've ever been on! After the carousel, we walked to the east side and went into FAO Schwartz. Nina was amazed at the giant stuffed animals...all bigger than her! She really enjoyed the huge piano on the second floor (from the movie "Big" with Tom Hanks). By the time we were done there, it was time to head home for lunch and nap.

So, as you can see, we are definitely enjoying our time in NYC! We'll be posting more pictures soon.

Hope everyone is well and enjoying their fall.

Erin

Some Nina-isms

2007-09-13T16:34:00.000-06:00

Where are you little lamb?
On Nina's eating plate, it's plastic and has a picture of a little lamb on it. While eating pasta, she was clearing the food away by eating it, and saying, "Where are you Little Lamb?"

The Farmer's Market is every Thursday. We walked there and while returning home, I said bye and went to class directly. Later during the walk, Nina must have forgotten that she said goodbye to me, turned around and said, "Where are you Daddy?"

Garbage Out!
I got home from school on Thursday. I noticed that the garbage was smelling. Before I could react, Nina said, "Take the garbage out Daddy!"

Thursday
Today Nina began drinking out of a big girl cup without a lid or a straw

Bodumdiddy
Nina does not like the vacuum cleaner. She's afraid of it. She calls it a "bodumdiddy." The other day, she said, "No want bodum diddy by me" and Erin commented how clear the point was conveyed!

Apple
Nina loves apples. She loves applesauce, apple juice, etc. So I asked her, "Nina, how do you like apples the best? In apple sauce, apple juice, freshly cut?" She took a little time and said, "Apple with Almond Butter!"

The Attentive Ear
Nina listens to us when she's going to sleep in her room with the door open. If Erin coughs, Nina says, "Bless you Mommy!" If Erin and I laugh, Nina laughs too!

Nina LOVES to Wear Underwear

2007-09-13T07:30:00.001-06:00

Nina really likes to wear her big-girl underwear! She pleaded with us this morning so that she could wear them.

She also pleaded for some Almond butter and pita last night for dinner.

We're already ready for the weekend over here.

We began my Managerial Stats class on August 27. Midterm is on Sept 17. Final is in mid-October.

In the Strategy Formulation class we've covered Ben & Jerry's, the Cola Wars, and yesterday it was Apple, Inc.

Nina Shares and Plays Exceptionally Well

2007-09-11T23:52:00.000-06:00

Today, Erin and Nina had a Mom/Son come over for a morning play date. Nina did exceptionally well in sharing with Douglas! Nina had some learning to do in the past, but she was flying high this morning! Erin and I are both so proud of her!

Following a day of classes, whether it's journal entries from accounting, simple statistical portfolio risk analysis, or meeting new people with diverse interests, Erin and Nina keep me firmly grounded.

They remind me that family is more important than work. I work to provide for my family and that they will always be with me. I love seeing them each and every day.

Saturday Night

2007-09-09T09:34:00.000-06:00

A Parisian cluster-mate of mine, Benoit and fiance Laure, invited us and other nearby cluster-mates to an informal French wine & cheese dinner. We went and had a wonderful time. We talked about Korea, Indian weddings (and the difference between Northern and Southern traditions), the French school system, and post-B school industries.

We're excited to have Shannon (Erin's sister) come over to NYC for ThanksGiving!

Blessings

2007-09-07T02:12:00.000-06:00

My Mom's hair test results have returned with encouraging news. We are so blessed!
I know that I am blessed in many ways. Erin and Nina bring me so much joy! I look forward to spending time with them this weekend.

Thank you Lord!

Have a wonderful weekend.

Continuation

2007-09-05T16:26:00.000-06:00

Nina came down with a cold on Saturday and had a stuffy nose. Erin and I now have that cold. :(

Nina's speech skills have advanced in leaps and bounds. Today, Erin began couting, "1, 2" and Nina continued, "3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10!"

Nina says, "Bless you Daddy" after I sneeze.

Long Weekend

2007-09-05T06:30:00.000-06:00

Nina now sometimes refers to herself as "me" in the appropriate grammatical context.

For the long weekend, we stayed close to the area. We went to Mystic, CT and ate at Mystic Pizza. It was a quaint little town, however not many people smiled at Nina. Apparently it's a town that does not like little kids, especially non-rich ones. Stonington, CT was a smaller quaint town. It was nice. We were imagining a summer house there, overlooking the sea.

Nina

2007-08-30T20:19:00.000-06:00

Nina got her new pink velcro fall shoes today! She loves running in them up and down the hallway. One of the play group's Mom's today was impressed when Nina said "Thank you" to Erin for having removed the pebbles from her shoes.

Later during a walk outside, Nina saw another little girl drawing with markers. The little girl was coloring both on the paper and on the table. Nina scolded her by saying, "No no, only on the paper, not on the table" and the other girl's Mom was impressed.

Nina and her counting

2007-08-28T05:31:00.000-06:00

Nina knows how to count up to five, by holding her fingers up! Erin has been meeting up with Mom's of toddlers in the Morningside neighborhood.

A little bit regarding last week's orientation: Events were planned from 8am until at least 10pm (or later) everyday. I was happy to spend an hour each morning with Erin and Nina. I lucky to spend one additional hour during the day with them.

The undergraduate Freshmen arrived on campus yesterday. It was also our first day of classes for stats, learning Excel, business writing, and the case method.

In the morning

2007-08-22T06:52:00.000-06:00

Nina looked so grown up in her new PJs this morning. She walked out of her room and said, "Miss You" while coming to greet us!

Orientation & Nina

2007-08-21T06:16:00.000-06:00

I've been busy with orientation since Sunday night. This Tuesday morning, I was able to ask Nina about things she likes. Here are some of them:

- roti- prata
- apple sauce
- oatmeal
- dancing
- Every Move I Make (song) by Jennifer Carozza

Playing in Central Park

2007-08-18T20:26:00.000-06:00

Saturday

2007-08-18T20:02:00.001-06:00

At the CIMA event last night, I met a tall Chilean, another Argentinean, two West Point Academy Graduates, someone from Chicago, and a Frenchman.

Yesterday Erin and Nina tried their first New York bagels and loved it at Absolute Bagels. Thanks Greg & Bert for introducing it to me.

Today, the weather was absolutely perfect with a little chill in the morning air. We went to Whole Foods at Columbus Circle and spent the morning in Central Park. While there, a Dad and his son approached Nina and the son played with Nina. The Dad took pictures and two are above.

Below is also a video of Nina eating corn on the cob at Bert's place while we were there with Greg.

Friday

2007-08-17T13:16:00.001-06:00

This morning, Nina and I walked to the Garden of Eden grocery store here in Broadway (NYC). We got tahini (for hummous) among some other items.

Erin, Nina, and I walked to North Central Park and discovered the pond there. On the way, there was a tv crew filming a conversation on the top of the hill. We walked/strolled quietly pass.

For lunch, we had soaked split peas (in honor of Greg's wonderfully delicious split pea soup), cooked it in the rice cooker under the low/soup setting during the morning, such that the soup was ready for us upon our return.

At lunch, I met with three more CBS students: a Venuzuelan, Jordanian, and someone from Michigan.

This evening I'll attend the Columbia Investment Management Association Happy Hour.

Birthday Cake

2007-08-15T12:39:00.000-06:00

Continuing with tradition, Nina had a Choco - Hoto Pot for her birthday. Pictures to come.

Today

2007-08-14T19:03:00.000-06:00

Nina likes to get lifted up on a leg. Today, I told her I would lift her up seven times, so I counted for each lift and Nina repeated. I said "One"
Nina said "One."
I said "Two."
Nina responded "Two."
...
I said "Seven."
Nina responded "Eight!" :D

Later during our post-dinner stroll, we asked Nina, "How old are you?"
She responded, "One"
and we replied "Two!"

This repeated about three more times until she realized that she should say "Two" also!

Nina's Birthday

2007-08-14T07:25:00.000-06:00

Today is Nina's second (2nd) birthday! Wow. How time flies. She can pull the stool out, climb up, turn the water on, get some soap, rub her hands, rinse them, turn the water off, climb down, dry her hands, and put the stool away! Incredible!

Settling into the Apple, the Big Apple

2007-08-12T17:57:00.000-06:00

We finally can see the floor in our apartment! Boxes have been put away and we have some odds and ends to store. Wow! It has been quite a few days of settling in.

Almost five full days ago, our furniture and boxes arrived. They were stacked almost to the ceiling. We finally have a semblance of a cozy abode.

Today we wrapped up the day with our traditional new home meal of Grandma's Hotdish. We went for a walk outside on MorningSide Drive afterwards where Nina got to take her Little Tikes Truck. She was pushing it and have a grand ole' time.

More Pics from New Ulm

2007-08-10T06:45:00.000-06:00

More Pics from New Ulm including some from a parade.

Pics in New Ulm

2007-08-10T06:42:00.000-06:00

Some Pics from our week in New Ulm in July.

Ovarian Cancer Survivor Article

2007-08-08T18:07:00.000-06:00

Alternative Medicine Saved Our Lives article from Prevention Magazine.

The Furniture

2007-08-08T17:23:00.000-06:00

Yesterday our furniture arrived. My brother Greg helped out. With Erin and Nina, all of us unpacked. Nina was having a grand time exploring each of the boxes in her room. She was beaming.

Our place is small (as expected) and we'll need to innovate to find organized ways of keeping everything.

Last night there was a big storm that caused flooding in the subways here in NYC. Consequently this morning, when we tried heading back up to the Columbia Apartment, we couldn't. Subways were not operating, buses, and taxis were over crowded.

Erin finished reading the latest Harry Potter book three or four days ago. I began reading it and finished it this morning! Wow. Incredible.

This Past Week

2007-08-02T18:33:00.000-06:00

We went to church on Sunday at Sure Foundation in Queens. They were very welcoming and a small community. We're looking forward to going again despite the warm climate and 45-minute commute. We walked along the Riverside Park pier. It was wonderful to feel the breeze and watch Nina take in the sights and sounds. She saw her first speed boat.

On Monday, we got the keys to our apartment for the next two years. It was smaller, much smaller than we had expected, and we'll need to be creative in figuring out how to fit everything in, but it's looking much better! Why, keep reading...

Late Monday night, we decided to reserve a car, for early Tuesday morning, from the nearby Prestige Car Rental which surprisingly had competitive prices to Budget and other larger competitors. We went to Sears to buy a window A/C unit, IKEA for lunch and purchase of some rugs and curtains, drove along the northern shore of Long Island, and finally did a grcoery store run for bulky items. It was a very LONG day.

We were all tired the next day (Wednesday) so we went to toddler playground at
Riverside Park at 66th. In the afternoon, I went to the new apartment and got one of the maintenance staff to install the window A/C unit. I learned a couple of things from him.

A couple of times this week, given the sweltering heat and humidity, we have gotten a Jamba Juice. Nina knows how to say "Jamba Juice" and our latest favorite is the Strawberry Surf Rider.

Wednesday evening Greg returned back. He and Nina have played a couple of times together. I love seeing the smiles.

Arrived in the Big Apple

2007-07-28T19:52:00.001-06:00

We have arrived in New York. More coming later.

How Are You Doing?

2007-07-24T08:27:00.000-06:00

The last couple of days we've been calling and speaking to Popo. Popo and Nina love speaking with each other. Today following the call, Erin asked Nina, "How is Popo doing?" and she responded with "Well" This was the first time that Nina said well.

Yesterday the U.S. troops returned back to New Ulm and Erin and her Mom went to greet them on the main street.

Saturday and Sunday was the Bavarian Blast. On Sunday we took Nina to her first parade. She behaved excellently. She sat in a lawn chair between Grandpa and Auntie Shannon. It was Shannon's 21st birthday.

Dreams

2007-07-21T14:34:00.000-06:00

While in Singapore, in the mornings when prompted if she dreamt about anything, she responded, "Yes." When asked what did she dream about, she responded with, "Panda."

In New Ulm, Nina now says that she dreams about "roti-prata" with Popo & Koung koung.

Signing

2007-07-21T14:14:00.000-06:00

When Erin and I began doing sign language with Nina, there were two schools of thought:

1) Terrible twos occur primarily because the child has a desire but is unable to communicate or convey his/her intention. Therefore any communication is good to minimize the temper tantrums and whining that is so characteristic of this age. In summary, Sign Language is good.

2) Teaching a child sign language will delay speech development because the child will be so dependent on signs that they will be reluctant to learn how to speak. In summary, Sign Language is bad.

The following article from Parents Magazine discusses a study that shows that children who learn how to sign typically learn how to speak earlier!

Wednesday

2007-07-20T20:00:00.000-06:00

We began the day by going to the American Club. There we went for a swim and a lady and child we had seen in the past asked Erin if she and Nina would like to have a play date. Unfortunately it was our last day in Singapore.

As we were leaving the children's library (a place we frequently visited), the staff presented Nina with a Giraffe stuffed animal! Wow, we were pleasantly surprised.

Koung koung went to buy roti-prata for us (especially Nina) to eat on the plane for last time, Nina got lasagna as their "kids meal."

We had the pleasure of meeting up with Gilbert, my cousin. It had been at least 10 years since we'd last met.

THE 15-hour flight began at 4:45pm Singapore local time.
Nina began well. The flight attendants liked talking to her.
Between the three different meals we got (children's meal, Erin's regular menu-item of chicken curry, and my non-dairy vegetarian meal that had "beef") Nina did eat some dinner.

She quickly fell asleep once the cabin lights were dimmed following her bedtime routine.

Erin was not able to sleep. I dozed occasionally.

11 hours later, Nina awoke!

We ate breakfast and landed approximately 15 hours later at 5:25pm on Wednesday L.A. local time!

We got to the hotel and enjoyed the fact that it was free from the points accumulated long-ago.

Nina and I went swimming in the luke-warm pool as we heard planes close by taking off and landing.

We ate dinner and went to bed.

A Little Bit of Sega

2007-07-17T17:24:00.000-06:00

A live recording of Nina dancing to Sega. (01:59)
Guitar player: Koukou Ferfer
Vocalists: Koukou Ferfer, EePo Giselle, & Popo
Dancer: Nina

Today is our travelling day!
Back to the U.S.A.

Add'l Pics

2007-07-14T19:32:00.000-06:00

Koukou Ferfer with Nina

Popo & EePo Giselle at the Japanese Restaurant

Erin and Nina at the Japanese Restaurant

Bento box at the Japanese Restaurant

Erin, Nina, & Nicolas

EePo & Popo

Nina, Koukou Ferfer, Popo, & EePo Giselle

Videos

2007-07-14T18:38:00.000-06:00

Nina dancing to Signing Time (0:26)
Notice that Nina signs "L" at one point for Leah, one of the girls in Signing Time!

Nina removing her pigtails (0:35)

Nina walk basking in attention (0:05)

Kounkoun, Popo, & Nina at the Long Beach Seafood Restaurant (0:30)

Back in Singapore

2007-07-14T03:12:00.000-06:00

Last night my father returned to Singapore from a business trip in China.

Erin did a liver flush this past week. Today, day 6, is the last day.

Nina, used to call her Mouse stuffed animals, "Nama" and now calls them Mousey!

She has been saying so many new phrases! Incredible.

Stay tuned for more dancing video clips of Nina.

Harry Potter Movie Release

2007-07-12T19:04:00.000-06:00

Wednesday the latest HP movie was released (as a sneak preview) in certain theatres. Yesterday it was released nationwide here in Singapore. Erin and I are hoping to go see it soon.

Yesterday, I had a wonderful time meeting up with an old MIT classmate.

Saturday we will celebrate Nina's birthday (one month in advance).

More Pics

2007-07-10T18:45:00.000-06:00

Nina walking in Popo's shoes!

Kou kou Ferfer with Nina

Pics

2007-07-10T18:44:00.000-06:00

Nina eating a mini cupcake at the American Club on July 4th

Erin and Nina at the Long Beach Seafood Restaurant

Fresh coconut at the Long Beach Seafood Restaurant

Chilli Crab at the Long Beach Seafood Restaurant

Latest Activities

2007-07-06T00:28:00.000-06:00

Thursday night we ate at the Long Beach Sea Food Restaurant. We had chilli crab, steamed fish, sauteed kai-lan, and kang-kong with chilli paste. Almond bean-curd with longan and sweet yam topped off the night! Stay tuned for pics of the dishes! Here's just one recipe for chilli crab.

Nina tried the sauteed kai-lan for the first time and loved it with the rice!

On Monday I began the Liver Flush.

This particular protocol has been significant for my Mom. She had gallstones in her CT scan back in January 2007. After she began Dr. Gonzalez's protocol and did the Liver Flush in the treatment, the subsequent CT scan confirmed that the gallstones had indeed been flushed out! Incredible. Both Dr. Wong & the radiologist were both amazed and requested the Liver Flush protocol. An alternative, non-invasive, cost-effective protocol for treating gallstones. It is amazing thing that a simpler version has been around since the 1920's and yet people undergo surgery to treat gallstones!

The first four days were not bad. Apple juice with Phosphoric acid between meals. Yesterday (the fifth day), I adhered to the two Acid Calcium's before breakfast and lunch. This step is omitted in the Liver Flush website, but is prescribed by Dr. Gonzalez's's version.

I went to have lunch with Dad. We had dim sum at the American Club. The food was good, but the conversation was excellent. I look forward to another such lunch with him.

Unfortunately, due to neighboring construction (there's construction everywhere in Singapore, it's amazing), water was interrupted in the evening. This put a kink in the plans for my parents' coffee enemas, Nina's bath, washing the strawberries for dinner, the effects of the epsom salts, and general evening routine activities. Such events always remind you of how much running water is taken for granted. If you want specifics, email me.

During this time, Mom & Dad both became interested in a book Mom received from one of her friends. Cancer Naturally Cured. This book is special because 1) it provides a local Singaporean perspective upon cancer, 2) prior to our trip here, Erin and I spoke about finding a book that provides inspirational stories about LIVING cancer survivors instead of from those who have died - the suggestion at the help desk at Barnes and Nobles was Lance Armstrong's book, 3) it is newly published (July 2007) - not even amazon carries it.

Most importantly, it draws comparisons about common characteristics that living cancer survivors have. Although I have read only a few pages of this book, my parents are both captivated by it. Please let me know if you're interested in this book. I have provided one link earlier by the son of the author (Betty Khoo) and here is another link of an interview with Betty from Radio Singapore International.

Thanks for reading!

Signing Corn

2007-07-03T18:50:00.000-06:00

Nina loves to sign. Here she was signing "corn" for Popo

Happy July 4th!

2007-07-03T18:44:00.000-06:00

Happy July 4th! We will go to the American Club today for mini cupcakes, hot dogs, and hamburgers.

Another Precious Moment with Popo

2007-07-02T08:33:00.000-06:00

Precious Moments with Popo

2007-07-02T08:08:00.000-06:00

Precious Moments

2007-07-02T07:12:00.000-06:00

Indonesian Restaurant: Sanur

2007-06-30T19:07:00.001-06:00

We ate lunch at the Indonesian restaurant Sanur yesterday and had a delightfully spicy meal consisting of Beef Rendang, Kang kong, yellow coconut rice, and topped off with Chendol for dessert. Delicious!

Zoooooo

2007-06-30T18:37:00.000-06:00

Yes, we went to the on Thursday. We saw Oran Otans, penguins, kangeroos, parokeets, elephants, otters, and ostrichs. We wrapped up the hot morning outing with some Ben and Jerry's orange sorbet.

Test Results and Food

2007-06-26T02:25:00.000-06:00

On Friday, Mom received the test results of the latest CT scan and tumour markers. Overall the results were positive. This is very encouraging. Thank you Lord.

Foods Eaten

More Roti-Prata

The store - Open 24 Hours!

Buying at the store

Nina eating roti-prata

More food coming in subsequent postings.

Early Birthday Gift for Nina

2007-06-26T02:03:00.000-06:00

Nina received her earlybirthday gift from her Kounkoun & Popo today. At the American Club, they bought Nina a pair of purple Crocs.

Escalators for Cool Nina in Singapore

2007-06-25T18:55:00.000-06:00

Cool Nina

She has found a new love: escalators. With Popo & Kounkoun, she walks around the malls asking to go up or down. Singapore, with its plethora of escalators, is pure excitement for her. However, those moments are just the tip of the iceberg in the overall joy she has when with Popo and Kounkoun.

Some Singapore Pics/Videos

2007-06-21T09:00:00.000-06:00

Pigtail Nina

Reaching out to touch the monsoon rain

Erin and Nina

Jam Nina

Nina petting puppy at the Singapore Botanical Gardens (10 seconds)

Movie star Nina (12 seconds)

Nina saying "Roti-Prata" which is a local Singaporean Indian food.

Skype Brings the World Together

2007-06-20T08:11:00.000-06:00

This morning, Erin spoke with her parents. Skype is cool. The world is really a global village.

We went to the library at the American Club with Nina and ate a good lunch there. Ok, perhaps I ate too much at the salad bar. I had their version of Rojak consisting of jicama, bean sprouts, cucumbers, and
kang kong (Chinese vegatable). As I post these blogs and look for links, I'm learning things also.

In the afternoon we went to Takashimaya to look at shoes and kitchen supplies. Takashimaya is a large Japanese department store and it's amazing how many gadgets they have ranging from jars that can vacuum seal to preserve freshness, countertop boilers that keep water boiling hot, lime juicers, and much much more.

The Cancer Battle Plan made reference to Fit for Life.

I was particularly shocked with the chapters about animal protein and dairy products (excluding butter). My parents had first bought Fit for Life back in 1991 or so. I thought I had read the book, but I do not recall those two chatpers.

Monday Dinner & Tuesday

2007-06-18T18:40:00.000-06:00

We went to Ngee Ann City in the afternoon during which Popo & Kounkoun took Nina while Erin and I went shopping together. All of us had a great time.

We ate a delicious potato/sweet potato salad and a baby green salad topped with dates, julienned apples, ground almond/flax seed/sunflower seeds, cut grapes. Pleasantly cooling given the hot weather.

Today I went for my first colon hydrotherapy. Send me an email if you want to know more about my experience.

Below are some pictures from our daily walks in New Ulm. Nina continues to ask about "Herman."

In the afternoon we went for a "swim" at the American Club. I say "swim" because Nina was getting acclimated to a swimming pool.