AndJemmaMakesThree

LA Times story

2009-11-12T15:57:00.000-08:00

Our photo was featured in a follow-up article about child trafficking in China. We were interviewed along with many other families who have adopted from China. Here is the link to the story:

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-china-adopt11-2009nov11,0,4189900,full.story

Halloween 2009

2009-11-05T07:01:00.003-08:00

For Halloween this year, Jemma's costume was conceptual (again). She was, "You Can Count On Me", inspired by her recent obsession with numbers. We glued numbers all over her, painted them on her face and created a sash that said, "Count On Me". The crown was the highlight, boldly displaying a gold number eight. Needless to say, she was a big hit with the crowds. The weekend before we had a great time carving pumpkins with her friends Grace Li Qi and Anna.

Thing 1 & Thing 2

2009-10-27T15:33:00.001-07:00

Jemma and her friend, Dasha, celebrated Halloween a little early by putting on last year's costume. You gotta love these sweet girls, even if they do turn into Thing 1 & Thing 2 sometimes!

Who Needs Disney World?

2009-10-02T17:58:00.000-07:00

When you have a treadmill? At the beginning of the summer we had dinner with a few families at our friend's house and after dessert, our hopped-up children found a new and amazing way to use the treadmill. We adults were so amused that we had to capture it on video.

Friends, friends, friends!

2009-10-01T21:31:00.000-07:00

Jemma loves her friends and has no shortage of them. Here she is with Zoela, Maddie and Dasha - they are all just the best!

2009 Chinese Reunion

2009-09-29T15:05:00.000-07:00

Every summer we reunite with the families we traveled to China with. It is so much fun for the girls to reconnect with their Chinese sisters, and the adults have a hoot, too. This year, like last year, we met up in San Luis Obispo for two days and nights and took over the Embassy Suites hotel. We had crafts, a Chinese banquet, a bouncy castle, swimming in the pool, a visit to the apple orchard and of course, a trip to the beach. After the reunion we drove up the coast to Big Sur to relax in the spectacular nature. We finished our week-long trip with a night in Cambria, where we got to visit the Elephant Seals once again.

It's The Great Campout 2009!

2009-09-29T14:53:00.000-07:00

Every year we count the days to till the next Oak Glen Nursery School campout. Only 292 days to go until the Oak Glen Campout 2010! It's hard to describe what makes this annual event so special to us. Perhaps it's being surrounded by beautiful Sycamore trees that the children climb with abandon. Perhaps it's the gourmet food and wine all of the families bring to share with one another, or the sing alongs and storytelling around the campfire. Then there's the beach in walking distance and the glorious hikes up the mountains... Last year we had a family of quail residing outside of our tent, this year jack rabbits were hopping everywhere. It's a very special way to experience community with our families at the nursery school and I know that Jemma will treasure these campouts for the rest of her life.

Oak Glen Fundraiser 2009

2009-09-29T12:42:00.000-07:00

I am very behind on my posts, so our timeline might be a bit wonky here... Nonetheless... back in May, I helped organize the fundraiser for Jemma's nursery school, Oak Glen. We had a hugely successful event and I was so proud to work with the other mommas and poppas to create such a memorable evening. I spearheaded the food for the event under the guidance of two famous LA chefs, Thomas Boyce and Kim Boyce, who happen to be Oak Glen parents but couldn't be part of this particular event. Hard to know if the photos give it justice, but everything was done so creatively - the lighting structures, the live music, the handmade crafts - i.e. the lanterns created out of photos of our kids - so incredible - and all set in the most lush landscape in a gorgeous, eco-modern home.

Here, Kitty, Kitty

2009-09-17T11:21:00.000-07:00

Jemma is obsessed with cats and asks for one all the time. Of course, our dogs say "NO WAY"... plus, we're both a little allergic. Nonetheless, Jemma has a wonderful way with cats and they always come to her. Here she is with Frankie, our friend Amy's new kitty. Also, that's Wally, Amy's dad, who is a big pussycat as well!

Four Years Ago...

2009-09-16T15:47:00.000-07:00

We became a family... We love everything about our Jemma bug - she is truly the best.

Bubbles

2009-09-16T10:32:00.000-07:00

It is a tradition to stomp on bubble wrap - usually done during the Chinese New Year to mimic fireworks. We do it every year at our reunion with the families we traveled to China with - kids love it!

Bowl Me Over!

2009-07-31T16:16:00.000-07:00

We took Jemma to her first concert at the Hollywood Bowl last night. She was so excited and kept saying the word "orchestra" over and over. It was really wonderful to hear Dvorák and the Beethoven Violin Concerto with Gil Shaham. And it didn't hurt that we had free box seats. Jemma listened quite well and hardly whispered any questions.

Beach Bums!

2009-07-16T17:27:00.001-07:00

We had a great day at the beach with Jemma's best buddy, Zoela. The girls spent the majority of the time down at the water running from the waves. But the photos we have show the kite flying and sand playing fun. The dogs were loving it, too!

Hat's Off!

2009-07-10T13:53:00.000-07:00

Our little bug is a hat girl - and to think, we almost named her, Hattie! Back in 2006 we took pictures of her in the same hat - my, how she's changed!

Go Dodgers!

2009-07-01T11:15:00.000-07:00

Jemma finally went to her first baseball game last night. Unfortunately, the Dodgers lost to the Rockies, but all the way up until the bottom of the ninth, Jemma kept saying, "But they could win, right?" Gotta love the positive thinking. We were impressed with her attention to the game which lasted the full nine innings. When I had to go to the bathroom she was quite concerned, "Hurry, Mom, or you'll miss the game!" She asked questions like, "Why can't the ball go past that line?" and "Why are they combing the dirt?" and "Can I have more peanuts?" I think we have a budding fan on our hands! At the end of the night we walked down to the field and sat on the plush grass to watch the wonderful fireworks display. These photos were captured on my iPhone - not bad!

Bicycle! Bicycle!

2009-06-30T13:12:00.001-07:00

Jemma has graduated to a two-wheeler with training wheels and she loves it! Her best trick - honking the horn while riding in traffic - another typical driver in Los Angeles. And don't tell her she shouldn't ride in a dress with flip flops either or she'll do more than just honk the horn!

The Spring Dance Recital

2009-06-30T12:12:00.000-07:00

Each of us is a flower - did you know that? Here's Jemma at her Spring Recital to sing and dance it for you!

The Warm Up

2009-06-30T11:53:00.000-07:00

Here are the girls doing a warm up before the Spring Dance Recital. Alongside Jemma are her two buddies, Zoela and Maddie - the chatterboxes!

Fetch!

2009-06-30T11:24:00.000-07:00

Couldn't resist sharing a silly morning ritual at the Lawler home... Notice Jemma is already in her bathing suit - she likes to wear them any time of year, whether she is going swimming or not!

Grecian Formula

2009-04-22T21:59:00.000-07:00

Here we are celebrating John's __th birthday at one of our favorite Greek restaurants, Estatorio Milos. Yum!

Wet and Wild!

2009-04-22T21:45:00.000-07:00

The rain was not a deterrent for our little water bug. She walked ten blocks with it drizzling on her face trying to catch as many drops in her mouth as she could.

Flutter byes!

2009-04-22T21:27:00.000-07:00

Our dear friends, Floyd, Nancy (aka "Ponce"), Aiden and Cassidy came down from the rural part of Connecticutt to spend the better part of a rainy day with us in New York. We went to the Museum of Natural History, or as Aiden liked to call it, the Museum of National Treasury! We enjoyed the dino bones of course, and the Butterfly collection was a special treat. It was hard to get Jemma out of the butterfly room even though it was super warm and overly moist!

Cheesepuff!

2009-04-22T21:07:00.000-07:00

Here is Chispa - or, Cheesepuff if you prefer, and Jemma does prefer. Chispa is the adorable little pup who rules the Leyva apartment - our home away from home when we visit NYC. Sadly, this trip we did not take any photos of the Leyva's, only the pooch who stole Jemma's heart (and socks!)

Girl Time

2009-04-22T20:52:00.000-07:00

At Oak Glen Nursery school, there's nothing like a good book with your gal pals.

Juggling Act

2009-03-30T09:50:00.000-07:00

The Things She Says!

2009-03-26T17:35:00.000-07:00

We've been trying to write down some of the things Jemma has been saying lately because they are so wonderful and unexpected. Here is a smattering:

Upon seeing a staircase made of Mexican tiles she said, "Those steps make a rhythm sound, like when you tap your toes!"

"I know you're disappointed mom, but you still love me. Even when you're mad you still love me."

In response to sleep being the most important thing for growing, Jemma without missing a beat said, "Well actually food is the most important thing for growing."

On talent:
Mom, you have a real talent.
I do? For what, for being your mom?
No, for just being you!

"Talent comes in a little ball from your arm and then it moves up into your shoulder and down into your tummy and then you have talent. You already have yours, mom, my talent is coming tomorrow.
I see, and what will you have a talent for?
Dancing! I will have a talent for dancing!"

"Do you know how to say hyacinth in Spanish? Cincinitta."

"I'm super contagious - I love you so much and that's contagious!"

After her Dad kissed her on the cheek:
"Ow', your beard! My beard is deep inside and it will never come out!"

Baking Buddies

2009-03-26T17:28:00.001-07:00

Jemma loves to help mommy bake, especially sweet potato muffins - a regular staple in our house. She licks batter at all stages and usually ends up covered in it, at which point, the dogs lick it off of her!

Portrait of a Dad

2009-03-26T17:26:00.001-07:00

Jemma has been taking a lot of photos lately - with her own camera and with ours. This photo she took of John is one of the best pictures anyone has taken of him ever! We thought it looked especially sharp in black and white.

BFF!

2009-03-26T17:11:00.000-07:00

Jemma and her best friend forever, Zoela, are really too friggin cute together. They love each other so much and it's such a delight to watch them play.

Cozy Cabin

2009-03-26T17:00:00.000-07:00

We were quite the cozy crew in our cabin overlooking Arrowhead Lake. We joined Dave, Sophie, Frankie and their cute little doggie, Roxy. Jemma and Frankie had a blast even though they have a seven year age difference - hey, a tickling contest is good at any age! And the dogs were happier than heck - except of course, when we left them behind to go skiing... woof.

Ski Wee!

2009-03-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

We had an exhilarating weekend in Lake Arrowhead with skiing in Big Bear. Jemma got on skis, went to Little Bear camp and learned how to make a pizza with her skiis to stop. We spied on her lesson and almost fainted watching her go down the slope by herself - but she did great! And on day two she rode "the flying chairs" as she like to call them, and skied down a few times without falling once. Then, Dad took Jemma and Frankie tubing - which turned out to be even more fun.

Florida Sunshine!

2009-03-26T16:49:00.000-07:00

We went down to Florida for a few days to visit MeeMa and PopPop (sorry, no photos of them from this trip) and Jemma took this photo of us. The other picture is of Hemmingway's house in Key West. We took our very first trip away from Jemma and left her with the grandparents - everything worked out fine.

Tiny Bubbles

2009-03-26T16:18:00.000-07:00

While our bathtub was out of commission one day, Jemma was thrilled bathe in the kitchen sink. Ah, regression, it never gets old...

Bag Lady!

2009-03-26T15:49:00.000-07:00

Chinese New Year Slide Show

2009-03-26T13:57:00.000-07:00

2009 - Year of the OX!

2009-03-24T17:47:00.000-07:00

Once again we celebrated the Chinese New Year with about 200 other families with children from China at our favorite restaurant in Chinatown, the Empress Pavilion. Each year Jemma and her friends become more enthralled with the entertainment, which includes juggling, spinning cups and saucers, dragon dancing and bubble wrap stomping. We were one of the last to leave this year as Jemma was dancing the night away.

Cambria, Cambria!

2009-01-09T10:39:00.000-08:00

We ventured up the coast to join our friends, Adam and Tina and their daughter, Anna, for a little beach getaway. It was a great time, lots of post-holiday eating and hanging, plus some Elephant Seal watching. These amazing mammels migrate for from December to March in the same part of Cambria each year. They come to mate, breed, molt and fight. We saw it all - except the breeding and molting parts. But we witnessed the baby seals feed and play and we saw the mating dance, but mostly, we were enthralled with the fighting. The males have the big elephant nose and they are extremely aggressive and territorial. They are fiercely cruel to one another, chomping away at each other's necks until the loser slithers away... to the death! And then we went back to the house and ate again...

Onion Cookies!

2009-01-07T11:54:00.000-08:00

Jemma is an avid baker - watch out, Ace of Cakes - and this time, she interpreted her great grandma's savory recipe while we were visiting MeeMa and PopPop down in Florida...

Dinner with Friend

2008-12-29T10:58:00.000-08:00

We spent a few days in Cambria with Jemma's buddy, Anna, and her parents, Adam and Tina. I shot this little video of the girls while they were eating their alphabet pasta and cheese for dinner...

Light Up The Sky!

2008-12-29T10:50:00.000-08:00

At Griffith Park every year, the Dept. of Water and Power sponsors a wonderful light show and usually, we drive through it at 5 miles an hour. Well, for the last two years they've had a "green" week where you can walk the road to see the lights so this year we did just that. It was such a treat to do it by foot - Jemma was enthralled - mostly with her own little light stick!

Winter Dance Recital 2008!

2008-12-22T11:33:00.000-08:00

This year, our little dancer was a snowflake and a "cookie made of dough" (as per the song they sang with the tap dancing). TOO CUTE doesn't begin to describe Jemma and her best friends, Zoela and Maddie. Not only did these girls wow the crowd with their dancing but they performed into the microphone after the show! About a week later, Maddie's daddy was at a kid's party and overheard one parent telling another parent about these three girls at a dance show who took over the microphone and entertained the crowd. They're already famous! Only in LA...

NYC Fall 2008

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

We went back to NY for Andrea and Maxime's wedding and basically took zero photos on this trip - even though there were numerous moments to capture - oh well... Here's just a couple of the cutie...

Curtain Up!

2008-12-18T15:51:00.000-08:00

Little Miss Jem is obsessed with hiding these days, but sheer curtains are such a giveaway!

The Sand Witch! Halloween 2008

2008-12-17T15:02:00.000-08:00

We're a little behind in our posts here... sorry for the delay. Here are a few shots of Miss Jemma as a Sand-Witch. That's right, a witch with sand. Much like her parents, our daughter really enjoys her play on words. We thought of putting numbers all over her and making her someone "you can count on" but we opted for the Sand Witch instead... there's always next year.

Leaves!

2008-11-12T14:59:00.001-08:00

We went to NYC for a quickie weekend getaway, and during that, our dear friends, the McCooe family, whisked us away for a perfect fall day in Jersey. Jemma and Clare played for almost an hour in the leaves - raking them up and then jumping right in them!

Betty Crackpot!

2008-10-23T14:23:00.001-07:00

Jemma loves to bake with mom, and when mom is not baking, she loves to pretend...

Annual Reunion 2008

2008-10-23T14:12:00.000-07:00

This year our travel group reunited in beautiful San Luis Obispo. It was the perfect spot as it is right in the middle for the Northern and Southern Californians. We took over the Embassy Suites (sweet!), went nuts at the free happy hour and free hot breakfast, indulged in a Chinese buffet dinner, went to an animal farm, hung out at the beach - whew! It was a memorable weekend for the girls, who referred to themselves as the "Chinese Sisters".

Gone to Oregon!

2008-10-23T12:14:00.000-07:00

This summer we took a family trip up to Oregon (to see a state that actually gets some rain) and then drove back down to California to participate in the 3rd annual reunion of the families we traveled to China with. On the way down we stopped at an amusement park in Salem then in California, the Monterey Bay Acquarium, Big Sur and Hearst Castle.

Portrait of an Artist

2008-10-20T10:51:00.000-07:00

Painting is a visceral act for Ms. Jemma - it involves the whole mind and body. This latest creation is proudly hanging in Ellen's office - she has not had any offers on it yet, but folks think it's a really good piece of art, which of course, it is!

It's the Great Campout!

2008-08-06T18:32:00.001-07:00

Jemma's nursery school, Oak Glen, hosts a campout every year - it was truly something we've been looking forward to since last July, and it lived up to the lore and legend and left us exhausted after three days. Big Sycamore Canyon gave us plenty trees to climb plus a beautiful beach across the way. We had a family of quail outside of our tent, we found lots of bugs, and a baby elephant seal paid us a visit for two days on the beach. The food was abundant and at times, super gourmet, the company was warm, loving and adventurous and the children had the times of their lives.

A Dog's Life

2008-07-31T11:26:00.001-07:00

Our loyal, happy hounds. Their joy gives us paws...

Step Sisters

2008-07-31T11:19:00.000-07:00

Our neighbor, Ferne, lives across the steps from us. Despite the gap in age, Ferne is a wonderful friend to Jemma, and they often meet on the steps and discuss the subtle changes in life, and throw the ball for Rua. This time, Jemma threw Ferne for a loop when she jumped over not one, not two but three steps!

Rail Against the Right!

2008-07-31T11:06:00.000-07:00

We have a long set of steps outside of our house that spans from one street to another. These have given Jemma hours of fun since the day we brought her home. She thinks of them as her steps, even though they are public, but she is a gregarious greeter to those who are passing by, usually on their way to or from a hike in nearby Elysian Park. These photos reflect her latest accomplishment, mastering the railings - climbing, swinging, sliding and balancing on them, and then getting loved up by her daddy afterwards.

MeeMa & PopPop Visit Again!

2008-07-17T13:44:00.000-07:00

Jemma loves spending time with her MeeMa and PopPop. They spoil her with gifts and paint her nails and teach her how to play cards and give her gummy bears... It's really hard to only see them twice a year. Jemma's emotions have really blossomed and it's quite touching to witness - she genuinely exudes deep love for her grandparents and gives them big hugs and kisses. And they, of course, are crazy about her. How could you not be?

A Book!

2008-06-30T20:31:00.000-07:00

If you've been following our blog we posted awhile ago that Mr. Ni, the Vice Mayor of Gaoyou, Jemma's birth place, and the former director of her orphanage, was collecting stories and pictures for a book he was writing. Well, Mr. Ni’s book on adoptive Gaoyou families has finally been published and you can view it from a website:

http://www.aboutgaoyou.com/gaoyou/love_across_boundaries.aspx

He made extensive use of pictures and posts from our blog in the appendix and elsewhere in the book. It is currently being translated into English. In the meantime, the pictures and chapters are loaded in the Acrobat bookmarks for easily location - thank you, Mr. Ni for documenting these stories for others to share!

Buzz, Buzz, Buzz!

2008-06-09T20:50:00.000-07:00

Jemma's spring dance recital was all about bugs - bees for the ballet portion and flies for the tap. We were so proud and impressed and could have watched these girls all day long. Jemma was joined by her best friend, Zoella, for the spring session, and the two were sweeter than honey as they buzzed around the stage with reckless abandon!

Old Friends, New Kids

2008-06-09T20:25:00.000-07:00

Ellen's acting teacher from grad school, the renowned William Esper, came out to Los Angeles to do a book signing for his new book, "The Actor's Art and Craft" - http://www.amazon.com/Actors-Art-Craft-William-Technique/dp/030727926X/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1213069709&sr=8-1. Two beautiful girls from one of her classmates, Roberto, quickly clung on to Jemma, and introduced her to the wicked world of cotton candy. Also pictured is Bill Doyle, Ellen's dear friend - they all look like they did in grad school - save for a few wrinkles and some kids!

Revlon Run/Walk

2008-05-30T07:27:00.000-07:00

This is the second year in a row that Jemma has participated in the Revlon Run/Walk to raise money for breast cancer. Dad ran the 5K and mom pushed Jemma in a stroller then we hung out on the lawn in the coliseum and picnicked with Doug and Andrea's family and friends. We were honoring Pearl Frank, Doug's mom, who sadly passed away this year after a long battle with breast cancer. We miss you, Pearl!

Cultural Heritage Day

2008-05-29T21:55:00.000-07:00

Our local FCC group - Families with Children from China - organized a fabulous day of cultural events - all Chinese - well, except for the Origami workshop. We began with a parade celebrating the Chinese zodiacs (year of the Monkey for Miss Jemma) and then watched a student from UCLA dance an ancient Tibetan folk dance (photos still on other camera) and then participated in various workshops. Mah Jong was by far the hands down fave - teaching us all how to count in Chinese as well. There was a lot of swag at this affair and Jemma clung on to a wand with metallic streamers and pretty much mastered the twirling of it by the end of the day. The other big highlight was meeting Karen Chau - creator of the hit, super peppy Nickelodeon show, "Ni Hao, Kai Lan!" Jemma is addicted to this super, super positive cartoon, and has picked up a small vocabulary of Chinese, and can actually recite most episodes by heart at this point (I can barely remember the feeling of a spongy brain). Finally, Daddy put his face inside the painted Kai Lan scene though Jemma was very disapproving of this new look and kept screaming, "ting! ting!" That's Chinese, for stop.

A Star is Flown

2008-05-26T16:28:00.000-07:00

On our flight home we ran into Allison Dunbar, star of stage and screen and TV - and also of Ellen's play, "Y2FU"! (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0241815/) Allison and Jemma hammed it up together for the camera - two little actresses.

Culture Vultures

2008-05-20T23:17:00.000-07:00

We hit New York City at just the right time - the trees were in bloom, the weather was crisp and clean and the exhibits at the museums were faboo. We walked across the park to the Guggenheim to see the fantastic installation by Chinese modern artist, Cai Guao Qiang. And then off to the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum to see the Rococo exhibit (and to shop at their amazing store.) We pray our daughter will manage hedge funds one day, rather than choose to be an artist but that doesn't keep us from exposing her to all the art we can. We just pray she doesn't want to be a dancer...

Love Those Leyvas!

2008-05-20T22:45:00.001-07:00

What a wonderful time we had staying with our dear friends, Carol & Ismael and their beautiful children, Isabelle, Tommy and Ismael. They welcomed us into their beautiful home as if we had been living together for years - the children embraced Jemma with so much love. Jemma longed for "the guys" the next day and kept asking about Isabelle. Luckily, Jemma has "Froggy" as a memento from this special experience and hugs him to sleep every night.

Dine & Saurs

2008-05-20T21:35:00.000-07:00

A trip to NY would be not be complete without a visit to the Natural History Museum and a fancy lunch at Jo Jo's. We enjoyed these special treats with our friends, Mark Brown and Nicki Genovese and their delightful daughter, Michayla. Make no bones about it - we had a seriously delicious meal.

On the Town!

2008-05-20T21:19:00.000-07:00

Jemma had a chance to reunite with one of her favorite gal pals, Michayla, in the Big Apple. These two whooped it up NY style, however, within the first hour of hanging out together, Jemma fell smack onto the tile floor in Artie's Deli - notice her duck lip? Ah well, even a fat lip didn't ruin the fun for these two - or the concerned parents...

Reunited!

2008-05-16T09:47:00.000-07:00

While visiting the east coast we gathered with our ol' New Yawka friends. We congregated in a Chinese restaurant (of course) in the west village, next to a great playground.

A Seder in New Jersey!

2008-05-16T08:42:00.001-07:00

We gathered with our extended family, Ellen's sisters Debbie and Sharon, their husbands, Tom and Lee and the four nephews, though we only captured Jared, the oldest nephew in our photos. We remembered the hardships of our ancestors when they were enslaved, and honored the freedom we enjoy today. Then we asked the four questions and threw in a fifth for good luck, which was, "Why on this night do we eat to the point of exploding?"

Recurring Role!

2008-05-16T08:10:00.000-07:00

Jemma made a second appearance on the PBS show, "A Place of Our Own" and she's already been asked to join the show again for next season. It's a fun day with lots of free snacks and everybody on set loves the children. What's not to love?

Hot Tub, Cool Aunt

2008-05-15T12:50:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed a hot Sunday swimming at the home of Johnny and Karen, (he the stepson to my Aunt Tina. ) Their children, Sarah and Jessica, delighted Jemma and she delighted them back. At the end it was hats off to a great day and then hats back on, but on opposite heads!

Typical Mornings

2008-05-07T08:54:00.000-07:00

Usually, the first thing Jemma wants in the morning is her juice water. But more often than not, she also wants to share Dad's bowl of cereal with him. She grabs a spoon and starts digging in, while half awake (she wakes up at 6am promptly most mornings!) Then, when she is fully awake, she begins a series of fun games - usually involving her dolls and things in the cabinets and drawers. On this particular morning, Jemma thought making shoes out of rubber gloves was a fabulous idea. And you should have seen her scrub the floor with those feet!

Daily Life

2008-05-01T23:01:00.001-07:00

Here's a quickie video with a Flip cam - be forewarned, it leaves you wanting more.

Jemma O'Keefe

2008-04-29T12:32:00.000-07:00

Our girl loves to paint, paint, paint, paint, paint. Her favorite book, coincidentally, is "I Ain't Gonna Paint No More!" Jemma loves to use her hands, the brushes, the ends of the brushes... she puts us to shame with her creations - well, we're a bit biased, but we've seen lesser works in greater spaces... We take 15% commission if anyone's interested...

The Moon and Our Stars

2008-04-29T12:10:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful evening at the Griffith Park Observatory with our friends, Mary Frances, Chris and daughter Grace Li Qi. The girls had all sorts of questions about our planets and then spun around and around on the great front lawn to defy gravity themselves.

Zoella & Maddie

2008-04-15T06:54:00.000-07:00

Here are two of Jemma's best pals from nursery school, Zoella and Maddie. We've had a few playdates with these girls and they are always wild and fun. Pictured are two quiet moments - RJ, Maddie's dad, got the girls to rub their bellies and tap their heads, and the other is a picture that Jemma took of Maddie and Zoella taking pictures of each other - how post modern chic! And, oh, we didn't intend for it to be a clothing optional playdate but alas, the girls were not having any of their ultra chic hand me downs that day!

Daisy & Rosie

2008-04-14T22:29:00.000-07:00

We always have fun when we hang out with the Yorkes and their two girls, Daisy and Rosie. They had a super high-end swing set and the girls wore themselves out. Then we had a delicious dinner of white lightening chili and while the adults indulged in a fresh strawberry tart, the girls snuggled on the couch and watched their favorite TV show, Ni Hao Kai Lan and learned some Chinese from it. The best part, though, and we should have had a video for it, was when the girls sang and danced the entire opening song of Ni Hao - talk about cute!

Jemma's First Campout!

2008-04-09T07:29:00.001-07:00

We went to El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara with our friends Shannon, Clara and their daughter Franny. Our tent was perfect, already set up for us, and while it was cold at night, we all snuggled under our down quilts. Franny introduced Jemma to her first piece of taffy and roly poly bugs. We had a wonderful time cooking over the fire, eating s'mores, and playing in the dark with the flashlights. On Sunday, we spent the entire day at the beach and the next day took a long hike up to the meadows to see the animals. Our only regret... no dogs allowed!

Coloring the Eggs

2008-04-02T13:54:00.001-07:00

Dying eggs took on a new twist with rubberband wrapping. Everyone enjoyed dipping twice - oh, wait, that's what you do on Passover! The fun part was watching Jemma peel the eggs the next day and gobble them up - dye and all!

Good Egg Hunting!

2008-04-02T13:38:00.001-07:00

Our friends Clara and Shannon and their daughter Franny, joined us for some Easter egg hunting. The girls were thrilled with the idea that a huge bunny hopped into our yard and left all these eggs filled with candies. Jemma kept retelling the story over and over again, partly because she was so excited and partly because she was so hopped up on sugar, as it were!

Easter Bunny!

2008-04-02T12:19:00.000-07:00

We didn't do our usual "Eastover" celebration because Easter was much earlier than Passover this year. But we celebrated nonetheless, and it was magical. Here are Jemma and Anna - two super cute bunnies. And speaking of bunnies, Easter's not a holiday without the basket or the bunny cupcakes!

Knitting Around

2008-03-23T22:34:00.000-07:00

Jemma is a great inspiration to us both, and has ignited me into knitting cute little hats and scarfs for her. Now she wants me to knit her a lady bug tent - see, she's been watching the show, "Ni Hao, Kai Lan" a new cartoon that teaches Chinese and Jemma is addicted to it and in one episode, The Campout, Kai Lan has a lady bug tent. Inspiring. Carpel tunnel syndrome, here I come!

Say, Cheese!

2008-03-23T22:24:00.000-07:00

We've always called her The Bug, but these days we're calling Jemma The Shudderbug. She's becoming obsessed with gadgetry - and insists on taking pictures by herself. She's getting better at framing and composition and she has a natural eye - she even caught Ollie peeing on the outdoor furniture - we call that Peeparazzi!

Chocoholic!

2008-03-23T22:04:00.000-07:00

In a matter of seconds, Jemma became a chocolate freak. From that first milky, melting in her mouth to the dark, crunching with almonds - this kid likes all chocolates, all the time. She often requests it for breakfast, sometimes jokingly and sometimes desperately through teary eyes. We have stayed strong thus far and but it's always a struggle resisting the chocolate beast within.

Blowing in the Wind

2008-03-22T21:00:00.000-07:00

Jemma insists on trying everything herself - "I can do it, I can do it!" she always says. Even though she doesn't blow dry her hair, she insisted on trying when she saw mom doing it. Whether it's blow drying hair, cutting with scissors or even knives, putting in her dance recital DVD, fast forwarding on the remote and pausing for costume changes, she can do it all - by herself.

Year of the Rat!

2008-03-22T15:15:00.000-07:00

We're a little late posting the photos of Chinese New Year - mainly because we don't have any! We forgot to bring our camera to the big celebration at the Empress Pavillion, but hopefully we'll snag some from our friends. Meantime, here is Jemma modeling her Lion Hat, which she wore to her school on the first day of Chinese New Year. At school, the children celebrated Jemma's holiday by making lanterns, eating oranges for good luck and hearing a story about it.

Our Little Dancer

2008-03-22T14:50:00.000-07:00

Jemma has become quite the little dancer. She studies ballet and tap once a week, but almost every day she puts in the DVD of her dance recital and practices her steps along with the TV. She has learned all the dances of the "big girls" and is very proud of herself for accomplishing this. The amazing thing about this is that she will spend two hours at a time rehearsing and she does costume changes in between. Even though she's quite good at ballet, she has proclaimed that she really only wants to tap! Needless to say, she was quite thrilled when we put on the movie, Singing in the Rain.

Wild About Idyllwild (2008)

2008-02-20T18:06:00.000-08:00

We had a fabulous weekend with our friends, the Browns, the Frattos and the Reynoldsesssss and their delicious little girls, Michayla, Anna and Grace Li Qi. Other than the very dry mountain air, everything was perfect... well, except one toilet was broken and the pellet stove didn't work, and the trash bin was full... but truly, none of these little things took away from one of the most memorable vacations ever.

Sweet Reunion

2008-02-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

Jemma and Norah spontaneously pick up where they left off. They play together as if they are old friends, and indeed they are - they spent 8 months together in the same baby room in China. Maybe it's our imagination, but these girls seem joined at the hip. They are sweet and dear to each other- there's Norah sharing some of her strawberry and mint chocolate chip ice cream with Jemma. Jemma snarfed up her ice cream too fast to give Norah any!

Choo Choo Chums

2008-02-02T08:11:00.000-08:00

At Train Town, Jemma and Norah climbed aboard a little tiny horse-driven carriage for two - it was a wild ride but beats rush hour traffic any day!

Train Town!

2008-01-28T07:46:00.000-08:00

We spent the morning, afternoon and evening with our friends, Anna, Stephen and Norah. We began in Train Town in Sonoma and the girls had a blast. In addition to the train they rode the carousel twice, went on the Dragon roller coaster and Norah rode the ferris wheel with her mom. Then we went for pizza and salad - Jemma ate her first Caesar salad - thanks for modeling that, Norah! The funniest thing about kids at this age, is their ability to smile on cue - it looks more like a pained expression. Well, one day we'll get a genuine response, but in spite of their grimaces, the girls had quite the fabulous time!

Tricycle!

2008-01-28T07:36:00.000-08:00

Jemma's Uncle Billy, Cousins Chris & Val and Tiana & Tim, all gave her a brand new tricycle for her birthday! Wow, what a special gift. We had several opportunities to ride around the grounds of the bed and breakfast we stayed in. Whee!

Find Playground, Must Play!

2008-01-28T07:16:00.000-08:00

No matter where we go, whether it be Sonoma or Durango or Boca Raton, Jemma must find a playground to explore in. This one was in the center of Calistoga and it was just the right size for her. No playground experience would be complete without the water fountain drinking finish!

Sonoma, Sonoma!

2008-01-27T22:59:00.000-08:00

We made a trip up north to wine country to visit Grandma Joan and our friends, Anna, Stephen and Norah. Jemma loved wearing her winter coat. The picture of Daddy was taken by Jemma - she's getting much better at holding the camera steady! We visited our favorite winery - the Rubicon winery (formerly Coppola) and inside the tasting room they had live music. Jemma danced like mad and made her own little mosh pit - the musicians adored her. And on the way out we played in the fountains and made wishes with coins.

Happy Girl!

2008-01-04T13:41:00.000-08:00

The best part about being with Jemma is that she loves to laugh and play. She delights in kidding around and acting silly and always tries to engage us in her shenanigans. It's impossible not to join in on her fun and feel like a kid again.

Noah's Ark!

2008-01-04T13:07:00.000-08:00

What a treat - our friends, Uncle Dan and Uncle Chris took us to the Noah's Ark exhibit at the Skirball. Jemma seemed to really love it. We were totally impressed by the animals made out of found objects. We can't wait to see it again and again and again, and since it's a permanent exhibit, we'll be able to!

Bed Bug!

2008-01-04T12:43:00.000-08:00

A week before the new year, we surprised Jemma with the much talked about new bed! We moved around some things, donated some other things and voila, we entered into another phase. Jemma was thrilled and couldn't stop running and jumping up into it, no matter how many times she hit her knees on the side! The first night she woke up around 11pm and was disoriented, but we set her straight and she slept soundly through the night. In the morning, she called for us, but we screamed back that it was okay for her to come out all by herself. Ah, the sound of little pitter patting feet - delicious. The second night she slept perfectly through the night and in the morning she came bounding out and ran straight to the bathroom announcing, "I have to make a poopie and I'm going to do it all by myself and I need my privacy!" And then she slammed the door and put on the light. We were hysterical. And then immediately nostalgic for the days when she was a little baby!

The Ghost of Christmukah Presents

2007-12-26T14:32:00.000-08:00

Jemma made out like a bandit this year with all the Hanukah, birthday and Christmas presents. ( Jemma, one day when you read this you'll find out that we store away some of these gifts in order to bring them out on a rainy day. Who could possibly play with all of these presents at once? Well...) But the biggest and most prized gift of all, was given on Christmas morning - a real guitar. Jemma is only three years old, but she seems determined to learn this instrument. However, she did give us a scare when she held it up to her chin like a violin - the kid is developing a good sense of humor. But with this guitar, she can hold it, strum it, sing and rock out all at the same time, so perhaps this is the start of something musical. We're already imagining her hair streaked purple and pink, wearing leggings and high heels... Meantime, outside our door that morning was this beautiful bug - we thought it was significant, since we have a beautiful bug of our own. Happy Holidays, sweet Jemma Bug!

Christmas Eve 2007

2007-12-26T14:00:00.000-08:00

This year we celebrated Christmas Eve in our home with some of our favorite friends. We ate and ate and ate and the children ran around and played - then we sang songs and ate some more. Christmas as it should be.

Evening Splendor

2007-12-26T13:55:00.000-08:00

Our sunsets are not too shabby, either. From our backyard, we have the perfect view of the moon rising over Mount Baldy - when the smog isn't blocking it, that is...

Snuggle Puppies

2007-12-26T11:31:00.000-08:00

Our dogs are the cuddliest, snuggliest, dooziest, doodliest, poodliest beasts.

Ho, Ho, Ho!

2007-12-26T10:52:00.000-08:00

Jemma made a Santa beard with bubbles and wants to wish everyone a wonderful holiday season!

That Florida Thang!

2007-12-26T10:42:00.000-08:00

In Boca Raton, Florida there is a wonderful park and hands-on museum for kids. Lucky for us they also had a carousel and Jemma went around it three times, because now she is three! In the museum we were all fascinated with the various ways to defy gravity. But MeeMa and PopPop on the other hand, are constantly lifting their heels up in the air. We were able to catch the final dress rehearsal of their latest show, "Tell Me A Story", a special holiday show for the kindalah! Here they are in the Cinderella ball scene - they are truly dashing.