Tolman's in Asia

Tiger's 1st Birthday

2011-05-16T01:50:00.000-07:00

Can it really be time for my little guy's birthday? Where did the days go?

Celebrations are in order

One year photos

Getting ready for his friends to arrive...

Ha ha! Love this action shot.

Being the birthday boy is exhausting!

Sri Lankan Christmas

2011-01-24T23:44:00.001-08:00

Left the house at 4am Christmas eve to catch a 3 hour flight to Sri Lanka. Then a windy, dusty, crowded, 2 hour drive down the coast from Columbo to Bentota. Some people may be asking why Sri Lanka? It has been top on my bucket list (post their civil war), as I am obsessed recently with Indian culture, but was not sure my little family was ready for the real India quite yet. Sri Lanka had this quaint laid back island feel, yet still a bit of the rich grittiness that I would expect India to be like. So basically we decided to take our curry mild, the first go around! As a bonus, we planned to share a villa with our dear friends from Delhi.

So we get off the dusty, chaotic road and pull up to a white unassuming concrete wall. They open the doors and this is our first glance into our little paradise.

We hung our stockings with care...

The 'good try' tree put up by the staff
Santa found us in Sri Lanka!

With appropriate Indian Barbies for the girls!

The aftermath

Lennox and Tiger

The kids couldn't wait to get to the beach...forget the toys!

And they're off!

The whole beach to ourselves

Painting in the afternoon with the naked local girl, oh wait that's my Kaile ;)

At the turtle sanctuary, the kids were in heaven. The sanctuary was set on a turtle hatching beach. They collect the eggs, safeguard them until they hatch and then release them into the ocean after a few days. They also nurture and rescue injured turtles. What amazing creatures they are and what a wonderful experience.

Kaile with a 2 day old

Kiara holding the baby turtle with care

Rescued turtle

Daddy getting slapped by the mama turtle

My precious!

All the boys!

River ride

The mangroves

100 Rupee to hold a baby monkey

What a cutie

Cool drinks on the river

Walking up the temple steps.

An ancient Buddhist temple on a small island in the middle of the river.

Greetings from the temple monk

Small Hindu temple on the grounds. Apparently the ancient King of Sri Lanka married a Hindu woman from India and part of the marriage dowry was to allow a small Hindu temple to be erected at every Buddhist temple site. Hooray for religious tolerance!

A floating fishing village on the river. I thought Tai was going to sink the whole farm!

Yep, Tai found his reptile...we always have to find crazy creatures to entertain Tai.

Kiara, not sure to laugh or cry

Sunset with my dear friend Rosalie

Playing at the pool

Just have to say, H-O-T!

The kids and the best pool toy ever!

Fresh flowers

The girls...tough life

Kaile at the villa gate, begging for some beach time

On your mark....

The Sutisna's family: Our dear friends from KL who moved to Sydney, then recently to Dehli! I adore this family and their gorgeous kids.

Kaile loved the beach!

Untouched beach right in front of our villa

Oh, I love Tiger's face and the way his little hand grips my arm! He is such a treasure.

Our villa pool

Local fishermen pulling in their nets and...a guest helper!

Beautiful Kiki...please stop growing up so fast!

Saying our goodbyes :(

Doesn't Annessa look like she could be my 3rd daughter?

Goodbye Sri Villas, what a relaxing and beautiful holiday...we will be back!

Tis' the Season: Refugees, Sugar Cookies, and Fashion Shows

2010-12-31T07:07:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone. We celebrated the Christmas season by organizing a food and toy drive for a Burmese refugee school in KL. It was an amazing experience to be involved and to bring awareness to the refugee situation in Malaysia. Kiara especially took to the experience and we had some great conversations. It was humbling even to attempt to explain what a refugee is.

Our conversation:

Kiara: What is a refugee?

Me: It is a person who is forced to leave their country to escape danger

Kiara: What kind of danger?

Me: Sometimes war, sometimes natural disasters

Kiara: What is war?

Me: When people are fighting against each other for something they want

Kiara: What do they want?

Me: Land, money, oil, freedom

Kiara: Why don't they just share the land and money?

Me: Because some people think they deserve more money or more land then other people

Kiara: Well when refugees come to Malaysia we can take care of them

Me: Yes, but many the refugees in Malaysia are not safe either because they do not have a Malaysian passport, access to jobs, housing, and money

Kiara: Why do they need a passport?

Me: So they won't get taken by the police and sent back to their country

Kiara: But, if their country is unsafe, why would the police send them there?

Me: Because to stay in a certain country you have to have documents that allow you to stay and work there, like our visas

Kiara: Why can't we give the refugees visas, that will help them the most (Love this girl's mind!)

Ok....so you get the point. The conversation went on to discuss borders, religion, freedom, education, and aid. Wow, the more I tried to explain the situation, the more glaringly backwards it all sounded. It was a drop in the bucket, but a wonderful thing to be a part of and hopefully something that will leave an imprint on Kiara.

Here are a few pics:

Working with Kiara's international school and our branch we had loads of food, clothes, and toys!

We sang Christmas songs and prayed together. The spirit in the room was so strong.

Now for some of the Christmas activities we had going this month:

Christmas cookies

Kiara at school with her friends

Class mums

Musical chairs, and Kiara won...she was sooo excited!

Getting ready for dad's work Christmas party

Lovely girl

The runway! (Thanks dad and Aimee for the gorgeous dresses)

Work it girl!

Next Top Model

Loving it!

Christmas morning, came a few days early. We sent an email to Santa telling him we would be in Sri Lanka for Christmas so he would have to send the big presents to our house on the 23rd. Luckly Santa is set-up for on-demand delivery! It was a fabulous year as both Kiara and Kaile were so excited about Santa coming. I know I will treasure these memories forever!

Santa went shopping in the Kampung and brought Tiger a rocking horse and chairs for the girls!

His first lightsaber?

The joy of Christmas morning (darling PJ's by Nana, every year she sends Christmas PJs for the girls. Tai would like to know when his will arrive?)

What a big boy! Love this picture because of his crazy hair :)

Kiara's favorite series

Are we boring you Tiger? :)

Well, someone is excited about the lightsaber! At least someone can play with daddy ;)

Thanks Grandpa Tui!

A Webkinz! Kiara is the best to give gifts to, her reaction is pure excitement and gratitude!

Now Kaile is copying big sister!

Look at his face! He is most excited about the wrapping paper.

Snuggling up with my sweetheart

We had a wonderful Christmas morning and the girls loved all their wonderful gifts from the family. We felt so spoiled and loved by you all! Most of all we missed you guys. So who is going to come visit us next Christmas???

My Little Ballerina

2010-12-30T07:12:00.000-08:00

Kiara has been working hard preparing for her ballet exam. Two lessons a week for the past few months. All the ballet studios here prepare the kids for the London Ballet Academy Exams. I am not so keen on the idea, but there is no way around it. She enjoys ballet, so we are keeping to it. The day of the exam they have to go into the testing room, where there is a pianist and a judge. They go in small groups and have about 20 minutes of choreography that they run through without any prompting. The windows are covered so I couldn't see what was going on. Needless to say, it was a really tense setting.

I think it was a good experience for her, to follow-thru on something and to have the courage to perform. The teacher told me afterwards that Kiara had the most gorgeous smile throughout the entire performance (Coming from her Chinese teacher who does not give compliments). I don't think she gets points for that, but at least she enjoyed herself. I was so proud of her and she looked stunning!

My Little Ballerina

Kiara and Juliette

Here dear friends

The pep talk!

Lining up to go into the exam

Yeah! We did it!

Celebration Tea with the moms

Muffins, scones, sandwiches, and proper tea cups! They felt very important!

Deepavali

2010-12-30T06:38:00.000-08:00

We love Malaysia and it's diversity! We get to celebrate holidays in 4 difficult cultures! The festival of lights is beautiful time to visit friends, dress-up, eat amazing food, and watch fireworks. Here is some snaps from Kiara's school activities.

Learning about the story of Deepavali

Making Ranglis

Halloween...the missing post!

2010-12-30T05:16:00.001-08:00

Was just reviewing 2010 posts and realized, I am missing Halloween pictures. This is for when I print my blog book, so bear with me.

Wow, a family shot where everyone is looking and for a bonus...smiling!

Trick-or-Treating in our neighborhood. Note, Kaile's upside down wings! I didn't have the heart nor energy to change them.

My cheeky boy! Love him to pieces!

Kaile was so cute this year with trick-or-treating. She loved knocking on doors, and since she is our social butterfly who knows everyone in the neighborhood (especially all their pets), it was even more fun! She would charge to the front door while her older sister stood back with a shy smile. These two could not be more different!

Kiara at a Halloween party

Amazing spooky food spread, by my talented friend

My little Berry Fairy!

Decorating cookies! Her faces are hilarious!

My peacock princess!

Kiara with her friends at the school Halloween carnival

Gorgeous!

The boys in this family are not too creative: Tiger as a Tiger, and Tai as a rugby player :)

Tiger with the office fans!

East Malaysia- Kuala Teranganu

2010-11-23T03:23:00.000-08:00

We took a long weekend holiday in East Malaysia in October. Terranganu is about 4 hours north-east of KL and a gorgeous area. Here are a few shots of our snorkling off the beach of a small island off the coast.

The kids loved seeing the nemo fish!

Kaile snorkled with her goggles...we will work on the mask on the next trip

Turtle spotting!

Kiara with our guide

Look at Kaile go! She loves fish and sealife so this was amazing for her.

So local Malay boys playing some traditional instruments

Kaile same-same

The pool at Tanjong Jara

Hey kid!

Jut waking up from a nap!

Satays by the pool!

At the beach

More satays

My lovely girls

Sleepy girl

Kiara in coral and shells

Headed to the gun show

Tiger's first dip in the ocean

Our private island! We took a boat from our hotel to an island on the coast about 45 min away. We were the only people there besides our guide and boat captain. It was a beatiful day. We snorkled in amazing coral reef right off the beach, the kids played in the sand, and just lounged for hours. Great family memories! Priceless.

Swinging for hours

Swinging and singing :)

All tuckered out!

All freaked out! This girls cracks me up!

Lovely Kiki!

Master Tai

2010-11-06T18:50:00.000-07:00

Tai is finally a Master of something ;) He graduated with his Masters in Business this year from UCLA/ National University of Singapore/ International Executive program. We are so proud of daddy and all his hard work. Working a full-time job and traveling all around Asia and to the US to take classes, it has been a busy couple of years! You did it hun!

UCLA campus was gorgeous, and we got to celebrate with some of my favorite people in the whole world! My dad, Laiga, Pania and Fili, Tutasi, Hunter , & Sophie -- all made the trip down! It was amazing to have so many people there to support and celebrate with us!

Grabbing a quick lunch at In & Out on campus. Fili and Tutasi are cracking me up!!!

My dad and Laiga plus the kiddos!

Walking around the gorgeous campus, with the perfect end-of-summer weather!!

Tai and his fan club!

Cutest girls!

Auntie Tasi makes everything more fun!!

Kiki and Daddy

Kaile and Sophie

Sister and Brother! So precious!

Love you hun

Does he look smarter?

The family

Father and son!

Tai and his consulting group

Tai and his dear friend Dr. Cyril Toma

Love this picture, two girls with mega personalities!

Kai Kai and Sophie had such a great time cruizin around campus

Awe...Auntie Pan, we miss you!

Graduation ceremony was on the rooftop with a stunning view of campus and the sunset

Keynote speaker....snooze!

Tai with his professors

The next day we spent at Disneyland celebrating!

Kaile was in love with the princesses!

Kaile is telling Jasmine all about her daddy's graduation

Mapping out our plan of attack!

Small world was a favorite!

Visiting with Pan & Fili to the park near my dad's house

Me, Pan, and Tasi

Love you Pan & Fili, thanks for making the trek down to support Tai!

Tiger's Baby Blessing & Jessi's 30th!

2010-09-16T01:37:00.000-07:00

Baby Blessing at Nana's

Oh, how I miss strawberries!

Proud Parents

Proud Mama

The Men

Four Generations and the first grandchild to carry on the Tolman name

Our Cutie

The Tolman grandkids are looking good, but not at the camera :)

All our family and friends that came out to support and celebrate with us! We are truly blessed!

Grandpa Fetui with Tiger

Playing in Nana's yard

Boompa sharing life lessons :)

Jam session Tiger post-party

Jessica's 30th Birthday Party!

What is so funny Tas?

Yummy food!

Amazing music!

Cool Crowd

Best Friends, Tasi and Leah

Best Sister...He he! Just kidding Jess :)

Family I haven't seen in almost 5 years!!!

What a wonderful night! Happy Birthday to an amazing sister and friend! Love you!

Summer Games 2010

2010-09-13T04:59:00.001-07:00

Our summer leave to the States was wonderful and action packed! I was incredibly homesick by the time July came around so I left early with the three kids and made the 30 hour journey without Tai. 3 airports, 10 hour layover in Tokyo, bad encounter with a japanese taxi driver, a horrible hotel, back and forth thru customs and immigration 3 times, and FINALLY we made it to Utah! Of course I didn't sleep for 40 plus hours, but we made it!

The kids were not so bad. Kaile is usually our wild card and she was surprisingly great on the flight. Kiara was an angel and really helped with the baby. I remember at one point, Kaile refused to sit down during take-off despite my and the 2 flight attendent's pleas. I was holding Tiger who was also fussing, and trying to talk the 2 year old into sitting down. When I realized it wasnt going to happen I handed a crying Tiger to Kiara and tried to calm down/strap down Kaile in my lap. I managed to distract and calm Kaile down, then turned around a few minutes later and Kiara had Tiger fast asleep in her arms! 10 minutes in the air and all the kids were asleep (Kiara still holding Tiger). Tender mercies? There is now doubt about that!

Here are some pictures of our time in Utah. It was an amazing summer and I am always humbled by how wonderful my family is! My whole family put there lives on hold to accomadate, care for, and entertain, me and my kids. Aimee was Kiara's "Summer Mom"! As every other day for the 5 weeks we were there was a sleepover, with Taylor, Zach, and Kiki. They formed such an incredible bond and it was heartbreaking to watch them say goodbye to each other. Jessi was living at my moms house too, so we got to spend every waking moment together! It was so much fun! We made so many great memories and I will cherish them forever!

Kaile, Shai, and Malina watching the flames in Nana's backyard

The girls laying on the picnic blanket

Sparklers!

Kaile's face kills me!

Ring around the rosie!

Bubble Bath

Kaiel with Uncle Christopher who I haven't seen in years!

How cool is my cousin Connor for letting the kids walk all over him!

At the park to celebrate Tai's birthday! What a fun day with all the family and kids. Tai is a simple guy and all he wanted was to BBQ and play volleyball. We set up a bouncy castle and slip'n slide next to the park and the kids were in heaven!

The girls performing the hula!

Go Dad!!

Happy Birthday Tai!

All the girls...making fun of our husbands :)

Lil Taylee!

Tai you look SERious!

Our blondies!

Malina and Kaile at the Childrens Museaum

Kiki, Zach, and Tayay

Go Girl!

Jessi, breaking up a fight if I remember correctly! :) "Give hugs, say your sorry!"

Trying to get warm!

Work it girls!

Go Kaile, Go Malina, Go Go!!

Ta DAH!

Nana and the grandkids

My Kiki

Best Friends

Love this shot!

Daddy and Tiger

Dada and Kai Kai at the slides!

Hugs

Park City pool side BBQ

The Tolman Cousins!

Sooooo cute!

Crashing the Lifferth Family reuion!

This is as close to a beach as you're gonna get Kaile!

Tiger!

The petting zoo at Thanksgiving Point

Kaile was in Heaven on that pony! She is STILL talking and asking to go again!

Me and Taylee!

Kids at Thanksgiving Point! Kaile is not on the pony.

Girls night out! Eat, Love, Pray and then a long dinner full of laughs!

Truce?

Kaile and Nana!

Bowling

With our little ladies

The Bowling Team

Kaile and Baby Jacob

Golfing

Sophie and Kaile!

2 Girls and A Boy....

2010-06-19T23:47:00.000-07:00

A lazy Saturday morning in our house.

Tiger smiles whenever the girls are around!

He is in heaven with his sisters around

He loves his swing

Kisses from his not so look-a-like sister

The golden boy and his locks

No more paparazzi please!!

Mermania!

2010-06-07T01:27:00.001-07:00

So Kiara is not quite 6 years old yet (and I am holding on to the last days), however her birthday always falls on the summer holiday. Going to an International School nearly all her classmates go back to their home country when school lets out. I organized her party early so her best friends could attend. She is obsessed with mermaids so we did a mermaid themed party. Her invites were darling. We invited all her mermaid friends to come help her save her Mermaid Kingdom! The Evil Sea Witch had stolen the enchanted pearl, and Majesty Princess Kiara needed help! It was all the talk at school weeks before :) I really went a bit crazy with the theme and had so much fun! I scoured Chinatown and found so many great things. My mom and I had a good laugh, when I told her I bought meters or fabric and toule to make mermaid tails for all the girls. If you know anything about me you know I CANNOT sew and even cringe at the thought of craft stores! Well, I managed ok without a sewing machine and some creative problem solving. In the end I was very pleased with how they turned out. The mermaid tails turned into Mermaid Sarongs! They were really cute. The girls did Mermaid Make-overs, searched for the Enchanted Pearl in a wild scavenger hunt, made pearl bracelets, decorated sea shell picture frames, and went diving for pearls! Here's some pictures of the fun day.

Mermaid Princess Kiara

The Decor

The Cake

The Festive Food

When the guests arrived it was time for their Mermaid Makeover

Mermaid Tails

Hair glitter, Mermaid Manicures, and make-up!

The After Shot

Her Majesty

Making Pearl Bracelets

Making Sea Shell Picture Frames

Time to eat! Sushi, Sea Shell Pasta, and Octopus Jello

Make a wish

Diving for Pearls. I put about 100 pearl in the pool and that kept the girls busy for a long time!

The ENTIRE party Tiger was fast asleep on the sofa! "These girls are exhausting!"

Kiara's School Concert

2010-05-31T07:01:00.001-07:00

Kiara had her final school Kindergarten concert. The theme of the concert was seasons. Anyone else find it strange that they are studying seasons in a country that only has one season??? Just saying. Anyway, she did a great job and looked gorgeous. Don't mind her sweater from three years ago...it is supposed to be a quarter length sleeve (wink)! Our winter wardrobe is skimpy and so 2006. Considering we haven't seen a winter in four years. I didn't realize it until we pulled out the winter clothes and Kiara began to ask what snow feels like. This girl was born in Utah!! The only thing I miss about winter is gourmet hot chocolate. Which I still drink on a rainy day, put on my valor track suit, and pump up the aircon.

Ok...back to my darling. Here she is in action:

Pre-show pep talk by Kai Kai

Work it girl!

How cute is she!

Kaile Turns 2!

2010-05-23T08:01:00.000-07:00

Birthday cake with Daddy

Your first flower delivery from Daddy who was sadly in the States for your big day

Cupcake face :)

Kaile, Kaile, Kaile! Oh I can't believe you are now 2. The time has gone by so fast, yet I can't even imagine our home without you. Your wild, loving, playful spirit brings me so much joy and happiness.

The day begins with your alarm clock voice yelling, "Mama! Mama!" and then preceding to call every person in the house! If we take too long you add a pleading, "Mama Please! Mama Please!" Your voice is so desperate we just have to laugh.

You love your frequent walks with Ivey visiting all the pets in the neighborhood. You are a true Asian baby who loves seafood and anything spicy. You put locals to shame the way you eat Nasi Lemak (a spicy fish and rice dish). When we pass the hawker food stall on the walk to school, the ladies greet you by name and give you free dried fish.

I love your beautiful smile and laugh. You are so courageous and confident. You walk around saying hi, bye bye, and thank you to everyone. One of our favorite stories about you is how you are enamored with our driver, Selvan. In the morning you are the only one who can bring the key to him. "Morning Selvan!" you yell from the doorway. Everyday for the last few months after we return home from an outing and we are pulling into the driveway you say "Selvan take bath!". When I told him that you were asking him to give you a bath, he laughed so hard! He calls you his Lady Boss! You truly are the boss of the household!

You are completely in love with Kiara. Even though that love is often manifested by tourturing her, I know that you mostly just want to get her attention. You follow everything she does and want to be just like her. I love watching you at Kiara's ballet class, all dressed up in her old ballet outfit (shoes included). You stand on the other side of the glass watching every move and copying the dancers. I will always remember that beautiful scene...your earnest eyes watching and following her with a proud smile on your face. You are absolutely stunning.

With a new baby brother you have amazed me with a tenderness that we had never witnessed in you before. You are loving, kind, and gentle. All of the sudden you have grown and taken your place as a big sister. When he cries you call out, "Oh Tiger, I'm coming!" and you rush over to give him his binky or pat him on the tummy. You stop for a few moments when you are playing to brush your face against his, give him a gentle kiss and make a sweet purring sound. It is a beautiful site. You have a new interest in dolls, and you walk around sweetly nurturing your doll and mimicking mommy. I love to see this new side of your personality...but it is just like you to keep surprising us :)

I am so proud of you Kai Kai! Mama loves you.

Of late...

2010-05-23T06:45:00.000-07:00

I was just downloading heaps of photos off my camera and realized that there is a lot I have not posted. Now I am starting to realize that it is the everyday happenings that I don't end up posting. So here are some random photos of late...and some much much later then others :)

Kiara was having a playdate at our house this past week. I put Tiger down so I could make the girls a snack and 2 minutes later this is what I find the little princesses doing. Tiger you will learn to love this when you get older!!

Kaile always has to "get ready" for school in the morning too. Even though she doesn't attend school yet :) She needs a "pack pack" and her hair done every morning to drop off big sister.

Taking a little skinny dip while Kiki is at school

Double the style

This past month, Kiki learned how to cross all the monkey bars!

Wrestling at home, these are the times when I so wish we had carpet in our house!

Easter activity at school, days before I delivered. That is why it never got posted.

Easter Dresses. This was the best shot as Kaile was wiggling all over the place!

Lunch at school with the big kids. Her faces crack me up!!

Valentines party at school also happend to be Wacky Hair Day for spirit week!

The kids had fun, eating V day treats and delivering cards to their classmates

Kaile came dressed in her Valentines outfit...used to be Kiara's. Can't believe how big she is!

Wacky Hair Day

Twin Day at school for Spirit Week turned into triplet day. Kiara and her best friends Julia and Sara. I couldn't resist getting one for Kaile too!

She definately is not longer the baby in the house

My Blond Bundle: 4 Weeks Old

2010-04-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

Tiger (the nickname has stuck) is 4 weeks old today. We are settling into life. Tiger is still sleeping 2/3rds of the day and my time is filled with nursing, changing diapers, school pick-ups, play dates, tennis, and ballet classes, and trying to keep Kaile from wiping snot all over Tiger's face. BTW, getting used to a boy in the house....I am proud to say, the surprise spray in the face has gone down from 3 times a day to only once every other day.

The girls have been great with the new addition to the family. Both girls were a little needy in the first few weeks but manifested it in very different ways. Kaile with screaming fits of rage and Kiara with quiet tears, but both just wanting more attention from Mommy. It is not the worst thing in the world to be wanted and loved (I keep telling myself :)). But really I am settling into my new role as mother of three, and quite enjoying it. I keep saying this, but our family really feels complete! Tiger gets more and more beautiful everyday and I love having a baby in the house to snuggle all day.

I think his eyes are going to stay blue and that shocking blond hair is staying for sure

Kaile has been so sweet with Tiger

Ebony and Ivory: Kaile crashes the bath party!

Introducing Our Lil Golden Tiger

2010-04-27T05:19:00.000-07:00

This is the email that Tai sent out to our family from the hospital. It is filled with lots of inside jokes, but overall it is just my husband's strange sense of humor :) Love you hun, you still make me laugh! :

Fresh from the Malaysian crock pot, introducing .... Taitama Jon Tolman aka "Tiger"

Baby boy shot through the veil at 7:05pm today (3-30-10) weighing in at a paltry 8lbs, most of that in his dad's inherited massive noggin. The all-time shocker being what lay across that beautiful dome - the boy is 100% Eminem Platinum Blond!!! Can't even rationalize a tinge of light brown - there isnt a speck of dark anywhere to be found and he is all lemon meringue up top. The mark of the Lamanites has finally been lifted! Make no mistake, I've got a list and Im starting at the top until I find out what in the hell just happened with that boy's coif!

His mother was astonishing. Although we paid thousands (of ringitt) for an epidural, Tanya was inducted into the 1% global club where the anesthetic didnt take AT ALL and ended up going 100% pioneer au natural! Despite the colossal farfegnugen, Tanya was an unbelievable champion through it all and both she and baby Tiger are now sleeping peacefully and recuperating well.

Just in case you were wondering, here is the full list of nicknames you can use in order of preference:

Tiger: Born in the "Year of the..." and following suit on his namesakes errand to "multiply and replenish the earth" in between PGA championships
Tama: translation "son" in Maori or "son of fatherless goat" in Cook Islander
Lil' Jon: after his G-Pa and Crunk for "yeeeaaayah!"
Tai: wan, chi, land, bo, ni po ni
Junior: along with every other half-poly kid with a shameless dad
TJ: after his father's best friend's brother - cause Tasi is a girl's name

Will send more pics and call tomorrow, but I doubt that blond hair is going anywhere! Thank you for all your prayers, thoughts, and well wishes as we certainly felt and needed every last one of them today.

More tomorrow!

Papa T

Tiger

The Golden Dome

Happy Mom

Born in Malaysia

2010-04-27T01:14:00.000-07:00

My second child born in Malaysia...who would have thought. Lets just say the birthing experience was not as smooth as the first two. For the record, here is how it went down:

Check into the hospital at 8:30am
Contractions at 9:30am
Watch a movie, read magazines, chat with Tai, and rest.
Dialated to a 4 at 2:00om contractions strong and steady every 3-4 mins
3:00 Contractions strong and every 2 mins. I let the nurses know I am ready for my epidural, nurse tells me to wait 20 mins for the room to be ready. Deep breath, I think to myself, Ok I can do that...20 mins means 10 contractions.
3:45 No nurses and No epidural, contractions getting stronger and extremely painful
4:00 Where the H is my epidural!
5:00 I am transported to the labor room- contractions still going strong and steady
5:45 Anaesthetist finally comes, and takes 30 mins to jab my back fruitlessly. 8 painful jabs later he announces it is all good and the epidural is complete.
5 mins later, still feeling painful contractions
10 mins later, still feeling painful contractions
20 mins later...ok this epidural is NOT working
40 mins later, I am dialated to an 8 and there is no choice but to go "old school"

At this point, time is a blur and the pain is like nothing I have ever experienced. I am so impressed and in awe of women who go natural...but seriously WHY? I have experienced both and I would never choose to do that on purpose...just saying.

Anyway, after the most painful experience to date, Tiger came out with a roar. The doctor did a quick suction and slap on the back and then laid him on my chest. He immediately stopped crying. She told me that he needs to hear my heartbeat, because that is what he felt and heard in the womb. We were both extremely traumatized, but as soon as we held each other the whole world melted away. What a miracle life is. What a blessing it is to be holding a gift from heaven in my arms. To think that this little baby just left the presence of God, to come into this world, and into our family! It is humbling and I am filled with so much gratitude.

Ready..set...

Proud daddy

Proud Mommy

Flowers just kept coming...

Big Sister x 2

Smile?

This was our attempt at a family photo

Kaile was trying to feed the baby mentos mints

Kaile trying to jump off the bed

She keeps things interesting at our house :)

Baby Shower

2010-03-24T01:05:00.001-07:00

Me dear friends in KL threw me a baby shower. I know, I am sooooo spoiled! My third baby shower, and etiquette says showers only for your first baby (reminded my mother:)) But I have sweet and thoughtful friends. Not to mention...friends with quite a sense of humor!

Check out the Baby Tai that my friends actually sewed a traditional Maori dress and painted a moko on his face (based on a picture of Tai). They are so funny! I am still laughing!

Baby Tai

Check out the detail: poi balls, taiaha, moko, tiki, and piupiu.

Table set, and ready for guests

The cake is also, so funny! My friends said it was either this cake, or a blue cake with a broken tiara on the top! They know how hard it has been for me to wrap my head around the fact that I am having a boy!

Close-up: My girls and their lil bro

Flower delivery from my dear friend Bri who moved to Bangkok

The hostesses, Rosalie and Jen.

Speech!

Beth

Me and the lil Tai

A juice toast, to the wonderful women who inspire and uplift me!

More friends (Vivian, Sarah, Ilana, and Irene)

Feeling very loved! So all baby showers make me feel this way (not just my own). What better way to celebrate sisterhood and womanhood, then to come together and celebrate a new life. Bringing a new life into this world is our divine miracle and what makes us unique and beautiful in Gods eyes.

Thanks to all the wonderful women in my life (not just friends in KL) that inspire me to be a better mother, friend, and person. Love you all x

Year of the Tiger

2010-02-28T06:43:00.000-08:00

Gong Xi Fa Cai! This is our 4th year celebrating Chinese New Year in Malaysia. Every year I go to Petaling Street in Chinatown and bargin for a new Chinese dress for Kiara. I really should post the previous years, because it is striking to me how much she has grown just thinking of her annual CNY parades at school. This year she requested daddy's favorite color, blue. She wanted to wear her silver diamond shoes and cheerfully announced that she packed her crocs in her backpack in case her feet hurt later. Wow! She already understands the concept of pains to be beautiful at this young age! ha ha! Despite her choice in shoes, she looked stunning! Her beautiful, loving spirit radiates. What a joy she is in our lives! I love you Kiki!

Kaile''s second year celebrating at Kiara's school. She looked gorgeous in dark pink!

Mother-Daughter Weekend in Vietnam

2010-02-27T04:46:00.001-08:00

What a dream come true! My mom flew into Malaysia on a Thursday and Friday morning at 6:30am we were on a flight to Hanoi. Tai took the girls for the weekend, and we whisked away for a weekend of shopping, sightseeing, and cool air. We had an amazing time, just catching up on everyday life. It made we realize how much I miss out on and how many details and deep conversations get overlooked on long distance calls. It had been nearly 10 years since we had traveled alone together and it was so wonderful. My mom is beautiful, fun, and a fabulous traveler...even if she never got the concept of Vietnam Dong (he he!). Here is some of the sights of the charming Hanoi. What a beautiful, lively, chaotic city; a place with amazing food, fascinating culture, and a colorful buzz. We found adventure just crossing the street, and loved wondering the many art galleries.

At the Temple of Literature a temple built for monks and scholars to learn and dedicate their lives to Confucianism

We arrived in Hanoi right during TET: Vietnamese New Year. Here is a picture of a mandarin tree that is present at nearly every shop and home during this time of the year.

The Old Quarter

The Piggy Tail Milestone

2010-02-07T04:52:00.001-08:00

The Piggy Tail Milestone, is a happy and sad day in our house. A few days ago, I realized that Kaile's hair was getting pretty long and decided to give it a try. After chasing her with a brush and rubber bands for half the morning this was the result...

Doesn't she look like such a little lady?!! When you can put your little girls hair in piggy tails, it is the begining of many other changes from little baby to little girl. All day long I was smiling in awe and laughing with pride at how beautiful and grown-up she has become. But at the same time I was silently mourning, to see the baby stage fleeting so quickly.

Kaile loves to be with the big girls and do everything that Kiara and her friends do. It is hilarious when we pick up Kiara from school, Kaile struts the hallways, yelling "Hi" to everyone, and when we leave she yells, "Bye Guys! See you!". Only 20 months old, and she is queen bee of the school.

Every morning her first request is "swimming? swimming?". We are in the pool 1 to 3 times daily. Here is a picture of her pretending to fall in the pool. And Pania, those are the water wings you gave Kiki! Kaile also loves the princess scooter you guys gave Kiara for her first birthday.

Harajuku Hip Hop Girls take Malaysia

2010-02-05T04:39:00.000-08:00

Kiara's class performed a hip hop dance at school. Choreography included (...among others) the helicopter, the sprinkler, and raise the roof. I was tempted to help with the choreography but her 45 year old teacher from West Virginia seemed to have it all under control :)

It was so darling and entertaining! The kids really enjoyed themselves and were so proud to perform in front of the "Graders", which is what Kiara calls the Grade 1 and up kids.

Kiki and her friends adopted a very cool attitude for their performance.

It's Banana B-A-N-A-N-A!

Harajuku Girls: MC Green T, Malay Mamacita , and K Money

Me I'm Supa Fly

White Sand Christmas

2010-01-15T18:47:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve was spent at home in KL. As I was cooking dinner in the kitchen, and frequently batting away my husband who tries to add Season-All to EVERYTHING...I found myself sulking and missing my sisters and mother terribly. Christmas Eve at home would have been filled with chaos, laughter, teasing in the kitchen, and lots of little kids running around. My house was too quite and I felt a sadness creeping over me. My saving grace was knowing that we had tickets out of the country early Christmas morning and I would be laying on a beach soon. I think I could drown my sadness in mango smoothies and sandcastles?

Kiara and Kaile playing on our balcony waiting for dinner to be ready

Smiles
Christmas Eve dinner

On the menu: Pear Gorgonzola salad with candied walnuts. Roast pork loin with fennel, roasted potatoes, and vegetables. Orange Chocolate Chunk Cake...it was a simple meal and turned out quite nice.

A Christmas toast. Feeling so blessed and thankful for my beautiful family

Kiara was hilarious this year! Her innocence, generous heart, and excitement for Santa's visit was contagious.
Letter to Santa
...as visions of sugar plums danced in her head

Finally Christmas morning comes!

New sunglasses from Santa

Kaile got this part-darling part-creepy mechanical cat that has motion sensors, purrs and rolls over. She had been playing with it at every toy store we visited for the whole year. Santa did good, and mommy is sticking to her guns about a no-pet rule.

4 hours later we land here in Koh Samui, Thailand

Kiki about to jump in

Our Samoan Princess

Playing with big sis

Ready for a nap!

Talking to our families in the States...miss you guys xxx

Can't complain

Daddy and his girls

Thai flower arrangements

Jumping to daddy

Pusing Kiara in is her favorite game

Napasai Resort

Our balcony

View from the girls bedroom of our private yard and cabana

View from the master bedroom

Dinner out with Tai (he is taking the photo)

Kiara
Our beach cottage
My 6 month belly...and no Pania that is not vodka in my hand :)

Kaile taking in the sun

Kiki making "Sand Angels"

This picture cracks me up. Kaile sucking on a lolly, legs crossed, and floating in the pool. She is one cool cat!

Daddy's Girl

I love this girl :)

Sisters

Kiki finding sea shells...she spent hours on the beach collecting sea shells.

Walking to Zazen, this gorgeous restaurant on a rocky sea side cliff surrounded by beautiful Zen gardens

Daddy keeping Kaile busy

Chocolate volcanoes for dessert ...yum!

Kiara relaxing after a yummy meal. She brings a book everywhere.

Waiting for the taxi

Tuckered out.

We had such a lovely trip just enjoying each others company. We spent hours watching and laughing at all of Kaile's new tricks, and talking about how in awe we are at Kiara's warm heart and cleverness. We are such proud and blessed parents. I was sick for a day and Tai and the girls took such good care of me.

Special thanks to my husband who finally got to relax for a few days after months of hard work, commuting to Singapore, and working on his MBA. The no wireless access at the resort was my secret weapon :) Thank you for being an amazing father and husband. I love you.

Christmas Season

2010-01-14T17:23:00.000-08:00

The Christmas season was busy and filled with fun activities. We hosted a cookie exchange and brunch, had school and church parties, and spent some time in Singapore enjoying the festive city.

A few of the Christmas decorations I have in KL. I think about all my decorations packed away in our storage unit for these past 4 years and want to cry. Oh well, home is where the heart is.

Brunch at my house with friends

Kaile enjoying the Christmas season sugar high

Decorations for the gingerbread house. Don't know how I missed taking a photo of the finished house.

Kiara's school Christmas party. Who wants cup cakes?

Kiara and her friend Juliette

Baking sugar cookies with mom

Bubble snow in Singapore. We spent a few days in Singapore with Tai to enjoy some Christmas shopping and festivities.

What kid doesn't love bubbles?

Barbie Christmas show at Raffles in Singapore

Street performers on Orchard Road

Kaile at the Singapore zoo, Kids Zone.

Kiki making a run for it

Singapore zoo
Kiara in her duckling costume for her school Christmas concert. She had a speaking part and did such a great job! We were so proud of our Christmas duckling.

Where's Kaile?

2009-11-24T03:23:00.000-08:00

So according to the blog universe...it looks like our life revolves around Kiara. But the reality is Kaile rarely stops moving long enough for a picture. She is my busy little toddler and I apologize for my blog-neglect. Here's a little about what she has been up to:

Cruiz'in the Bangkok river

Snuggling with her cuz Malina

More snuggling
She is obsessed with her silky blanket!
Kisses to Malina at the bird park
Eating yogurt
Talking on the phone
Dancing with her big sis. She runs up to the ipod and says "Dance!"

Baking with mom

Kaile keeps me busy all day long. She is such a joy and so full of energy. She is talking a lot, knows exactly what she wants, and basically rules the house with her unrelenting will, and vibrant personality. Lately...to Kiara's utter joy she has been very snuggly. She runs to the couch with her silky blanket and yells to Kiara. "Come, sit down!" and wants to lay with her big sis. Whos the boss???

VIDEO: UN Day Wero & Haka

2009-11-14T16:33:00.000-08:00

Check out Tai and his kiwi haka crew:

Click link below

Wero & Haka Performance

United Nations Day

2009-11-03T01:46:00.000-08:00

Kiara's International school celebrates United Nations Day every year by having each country give a cultural performance. This year we were invited to join the New Zealanders and quickly ditched our American counter parts who were doing a 50's dance in poodle skirts. Sorry to say, but it was an easy choice. Tai taught the kids a Haka and the kids dressed in All Blacks uniforms. Of course Kiara said she would not dress "like a rugby boy". So I improvised and made a few Maori accessories. Kiara was deathly nervous for weeks before, but Tai made her feel special by telling her that she was the only true Maori girl in the whole school and the rest of the kids were just Kiwis. He told her that they really needed her in the performance. The performance was by far the best in show. People are still talking about how amazing Tai and the kids were. Tai performed the wero and gave the token to the Vice Principal, which made all the kids laugh! Here is a few pictures.

Here is our Maori Princess

Kiara and her Kiwi mate

Kaile joining in the fun

Tai and his Haka crew

Kiara and her Kiwi teacher

Brazil

Indonesia

Korea

Kiara's class representing: Korea, Netherlands, Austraila, Indonesia, Malaysia/ Borneo, Japan, Greece, United States, Britain, Sweden.

Deepavali Celebration

2009-11-02T03:41:00.001-08:00

Celebrating Deepavali at Kiara's School

My Indian Princess

Kiara and her girls friends

Laughing with friends...

Dancing

Ragoli- colored rice art

State Side Bliss

2009-08-10T05:34:00.001-07:00

This post has taken a month, because when I went to download the 1468 pictures on our camera...I was a little overwhelmed. I am still missing some pictures of California...coming soon!

We had such an amazing time on our trip home this summer. It had been a full year since we last went home and we were aching to see beautiful family and friends. Top 10 things we miss about the States: (Not in any particular order)

Super Target, (One-stop shopping is heaven! Even Walmart was my Disneyland)
The cereal isle...so much to choose from, Tai was foaming
Fresh milk from an American cow!! There is nothing like it. And you can buy it in the gallon, yippee!
Big fat greasy hamburgers and shakes (By the end of the trip, lets just say too much was shaking!)
Jamba juices...such a simple pleasure
Fresh mountain air, and running in the light!
Mexican food...Asian's cannot even come close!
Picnics in the park
Cool summer nights
Wide open roads and BIG parking spaces

Just realized that 6 out of 10, on my list had to do with food! But, I have to tell the truth. Not on the list because it is ever present and always on our mind...is our family. We feel so blessed to be loved by so many people, and missed everyone terribly.

Here is a small selection of pictures from our 4 weeks in Utah!

Weekend in Wyoming with the Tolmans

Kiara fishing with Grandpa Tolman

Kaile and I both a bit spooked about the wiggling fish that Auntie Pan was holding!

Little Sophie and Kai Kai and their private picnic

Hunter looking smooth in his fishing hat!

Tolman's trampoline was a hit! Look at Hunter's cheer skills!!

Matching cousins

Saying goodbye to their stunning Nanny

Kiki and Taylor at the discovery park at Thanksgiving Point

Kissing cousins...so cute!!!

4th of July 1K race

Our gold metal winners!

Me and my beautiful sister Aimee

Mommy trying to head Kiki out at the finish line...wait isn't that daddy's patent move.

My dear friend...I swear we didn't coordinate outfits!

Morning brunch at Nana's house for Baby Jacobs blessing

Oquirrh Mountain Temple

Sparklers and fireworks at the Sagapolutele's

I LOVE Hunter's face in this picture!

Malina and Jessi

Salt Lake Temple Square with most of the cousins

Temple Square visitors center

Kaile and her beautiful lips!! She had this sleeping look all day long for weeks in Utah! I loved it!

Dinner with some old friends! It was so great to catch up!

Playdate and the Denny's

Hunter and Kiara future dancing with the Stars contestants!

Check out the screen in the back! so cute!

Take a bow!!!
Parkcity trampolining

Zach playing the volleyball in Parkcity

Another playdate with some old friends! Love you girls!!

My Dear Sisters! I love you guys!

The Fetui Girl's Men. Ryan you really know how to strike a pose...Tai are you ok? Feeling a bit uncomfortable??

Malina and Kaile giggling uncontrollably...we missed the joke, but they were having a blast!!

My sisters and mom put together a gorgeous lunch for my birthday (in January). How thoughtful are they?? I am so lucky and blessed!

The Beautiful Tolman cousins

Tai's Birthday Party at the park. Camp counselor Auntie Pania, leading the water balloon toss.

For Tai's birthday the kids got to chase him with water balloons!

That ones going in his face!

Good toss Kai Kai!

Fun at the water spout. Yet another full day at the park!

Tai and Rick wanted a memory maker for the kids....I think this would do it? A full 9 hours of fun for the kids!
Strike a pose!

LOVE YOU ALL! THANKS FOR AN AMAZING SUMMER AND FOR MAKING OUR TIME WITH YOU SO MEMORABLE!

Kiara Turns the Fabulous Five

2009-07-24T15:57:00.000-07:00

Ok, this is sooooo late. We had Kiara's birthday party a bit early in Malaysia and then two days later left for our summer leave to the States for one month. We are just getting back and now I have a lot of catching up to do. Here's a look at Kiara's Fabulous Spa Party:

June 29th...My little darling turns the fabulous five!

The Invite

The Birthday Girl

Fabulous food spread

Sparkling lemonade for all the girls...

Manicures and pedicures

Kaile gets the VIP treatment too!

Make-up time
Dancing and dressing up!

Kaile dresses up with the girls!

Thank you bags with fabulous accessories for her dear friends

Make a wish

Sunday Blessings

2009-05-31T03:03:00.001-07:00

I just had to share this cute story with the grandparents! I also thought it would be darling for Kiara to read about when she get older. Today was a LONG day at church and I was feeling tired. While I was making dinner I asked Kiara to set the table. She set the table cheerfully and then was quiet for a few minutes. When I walked into the dinning room to bring the food out, I saw folded papers under the chairs. I quickly went to pick them up (thinking it was ready for the trash) but was abruptly corrected by Kiara's voice, "mommy it is a surprise game". So we sat down to eat and said the prayer. The game began:

Kiara instructed us: "I will only call your name if you are being reverent AND you have to sit with your bottoms on the chair, both feet on the ground, and arms folded". (Sound familiar from your Primary days?)
Tai: This is really hard
Kiara: Daddy you can't eat while we are playing thats not reverence, Mommy only one foot is on the ground.
Me: Ok sweetie... just start the game (Anyone that knows me, knows I have little patience when I am hungry :))
Kiara: Here are the instructions (shows us the paper below)

We then looked under our chairs and found folded papers with our names on them. The "Presit" (present) was a beauitful drawing by Kiki. One of them featured below.

"Kiara and Jesus standing on the world"

Kiara: I will give you a paper and you have to tell me if you are choosing the right or choosing the wrong.
Tai: I'm nervous
Kiara: Don't worry daddy we can all help you

Then we chose a paper from the bowl that Kiara had written on. We had such a great time decifering the message and answering the questions. We were laughing so hard and she was so proud. She is so darling!!! Check out her cute papers that were taped shut with stickers. Her phonics are going strong, but spelling needs a bit of improvement :)

Be Nice: Choose the Right!

Help Everybody: Choose the Right

Believe In Jesus: Choose the Right

I not listen: Choose the Wrong!

It was a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Kiara really brought the spirit into our home and made me stop and count my blessings. Since my calling to serve in Primary, I have been feeling pretty tired after church. But I am thankful for small moments like today that fill me with gratitude. I feel so blessed to be in primary and to be able to take part in teaching my children (and other peoples children) the gospel. Kiara's surprise game, also made me reflect on the basics of the gospel and how simple and easy they can, and should be. All of the notes Kiara made were representative of some of the most important and core principles of living a Christian life and becoming a ture disciple of Christ.

Be nice (Kindness, Attitude, Christ-like love, Service)
Help Everybody (Charity, Service, Good works, Equality)
Believe in Christ (Faith, Obedience, Prayer)
Listening (Friendship, Relationships, Obedience...Ok so this was most likely added because of my constant nagging)

Each of these basics can be applied and developed in our life in so many different ways. Children can teach us so much and mine teach me, and humble me daily. My hope is when Kiara gets older, and when identifying what is right and what is wrong, gets more complicated and crowded with life, these simple principles of faith will persevere.

Girls Lunch

2009-05-24T05:03:00.001-07:00

It was Kiara's student-led parent conferences this week at school. This is where all the parents are invited into class and the kids have a chance to show us all their work and what they have been doing during the year. Unfortunately, Tai is in Singapore so he missed the fun. I had a fantastic time and was beaming with pride! Kiara was so excited to show me everything she has been doing in school. I was amazed at the amount of work she has done. They write in journals everyday, review and report news paper articles, do heaps of art work, play math games, computer games, ect. They have had some fantastic learning units on Endagered Malaysian Animals, Caring for the Earth, Community Helpers, ect. She had piles of art work, work books, and writing journals. It was fun to look at what she was doing at the begining of the year and what she has been doing recently. She has learned so much and is really growing into a beautiful young girl! I am so proud of my little princess.

After the confernce, Kiara got to invite one friend to go to a special lunch. She invited her cute friend Sarafina and we went to the Shangri La Lemon Garden. This is one of my favorite buffets restrants ever. Well, the buffet part was kind of a waste as the girls had a few satays and then camped at the amazing dessert spread. Luckily, I just happend to have gift vouchers that was expiring that week. It was a fancy treat and the girls had a great time! Kiara even remarked, "This is the best lunch I have ever had in my whole life!" I love this girl!!!

Kiki and Sarafina

The chocolate fountain was a hit!

Don't mind my finger in the frame...I was juggling a wiggley baby and a plate of chocolate strawberries!

I think they were on their third round to the ice cream counter

Kaile got some chocolate dipped fruit too. Her little foot on the table cracks me up! No manners this girl :)

Birthday Bon bons at Bijou

2009-05-17T02:22:00.001-07:00

Kaile turns one!!! I still can't believe it has been a year! Time has flown by so fast. Kaile is such a joy and has transformed our little family with her beautiful presence. She is so different from Kiara, that I feel like a new mother all over again. She is wild, hyper, playful, and LOUD!! She talks, sings, and yells all day long. She is so happy and is always laughing and smiling.

We celebrated at one of our favorite places in KL a small restaurant called Bijou. We were surrounded by dear friends who have watched Kai Kai grow and learn this past year. It was a wonderful day. Love you Kai Kai!

Decorating before friends arrive

Party girl in her new dress!

Me and the birthday girl

Thanks mom & Nana for the gorgeous frame. I finally got organized enough to place the monthly photos in there. Scanning through photos of the past year had me up until 1am and in tears :)
It has gone by too fast!
Some food photos: Yummy passion fruit chocolate trifle (this one was for nanny!)

Satays
Scones and cream

Gorgeous cupcakes
The proud big sister!

Kaile...standing but not quite brave enough to take steps on her own. A few too many bumps on our hard floors.
Me and my girls

Proud parents

Face painting and balloon sculpting

Bubbles were a hit too!

Play area for the kids
The face of fear and fun wrapped in one!
Another similar face! Daddy always seems to be around when Kaile is making this face :)
Cheeky girl

Kaile and her best friend Ellie-Kate
Precious Princess
Kiara and crew

Singing happy birthday
A little help with the candle
Yummy! "This beats sweet potatoes any day!"
All together...
Pure joy of sugar!
Ok...this party is over!!!

Siem Reap- Cambodia

2009-04-26T03:52:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to visit Cambodia. When we found out we were moving to SE Asia, I was so excited to finally visit the country I'd heard so much about. Siem Reap, Cambodia is set amidst dense green forests and long rice fields with massive monuments that are known as some of the most remarkable and striking architectural masterpieces in SE Asia. The breathtaking temples were built over 1,000 years ago by the ancient Khmer empire. Siem Reap is filled with dozens of these amazing temple complexes that you can literrally spend weeks exploring. We, however, only had 4 days and were traveling with two beautiful little time bombs! Fortunately, the kids were amazingly good travelers and we covered decent ground despite the odds. I was actually more worried about Tai in the 103 degree temps and 90% humidity. For those of you who know Tai ...you know he doesn't do well in the heat :) But, the history lover in him persevered and we really enjoyed exploring the spectacular temples together.

The standout for the trip was definitely the amazing Cambodian people. The most kind, generous, and humble people I have ever met. The country is emerging from unforunate decades of war, oppression, and genocide. It was heart breaking to be surrounded by these great people. Tourism is a major drive boosting the economy, so we didn't feel imposing visiting there. The people are so welcoming, humble, and genuine. We've spoken to Kiara quite a bit recently about poverty in the world whenever we visit places like this. A few nights after our return from Cambodia, Kiara prayed "for the children in Cambodia to not be hungry and to be safe". I hope that she will remember these humbling experiences and keep that innocent compassion with her throughout her life.

6:00am sun rise at Angkor Wat Temple

Lil' Angelina at the site of "Tomb Raider" (Ta Prohm)

Who left that child there all alone?

The many faces of Angkor Thom, Bayon temple

Gateway to Angkor Thom

Cheek to cheek

Greeting a Cambodian monk

Our one and only family shot

Up, up, and away!

Township in Siem Reap

Traditional Cambodian dancers

Our Hotel De La Paix

Reprieve from the heat at the pool

Our lil Buddha

Buying at the market

Kiara at her foot spa after a long day of sightseeing

Big Blue Baby for sale at the night market

Chopsticks and spring rolls. And yes, that is my new "sweat" gel.

We hiked 3K up this mountain to see the sun set, and then we couldn't carry the kids up the treacherously steep temple steps!! Oops.

A whole morning of temples and we bribed Kiara with a trip to the butterfly garden restaurant. She thought it was worth the wait!

Daddy dragged us to this crocodile farm that was disgusting and inhumane. These poor animals were just waiting to become handbags!

The croc with its mouth open snapped right at Kiki!

...and she was not a happy camper!

Wild street performer in town

High-octane Cambodian transport

Hot N Spicy Food!

Street performer jumping through a hoop of rusty kitchen knifes.

Pangkor Island, West Malaysia

2009-03-22T08:01:00.003-07:00

Where do we end up after a 3-hour drive north followed by a 30-min ferry ride?...Pangkor Island. This was a wonderful getaway spent with wonderful friends on another beautiful Malaysian isle. Not much else to see besides beach, resort, and birds...but I am not complaining!

The place was a quasi natural bird reserve. Tai and Kiki were in heaven with the roaming peacocks and hornbills.
Kaile would throw her food to watch the hornbills eat!
Feeding time
Underwater shot
Tai, Kiki, Greg, and Luca on the banana boat

Kiara surfin' with her daddy. Seconds later, Tai comes in with a nasty jelly fish sting on both legs. Its been over two weeks and he is still suffering. We just went to the clinic and he is on a cocktail of antibiotics, hydrocortisone, and antihistamines. These box jelly-fish are massive and highly venomous in these parts. We are counting our blessings that Kiara, who was just inches away when it happened, didn't get stung. Anyone want to see pictures of Tai's sting???

Tai and Kiara jet skiing
I prefer sitting by the pool!
Me and my girlsSun kissed
The O'Sheas - our Aussie mates
Me, my dear friend Bri, and our darlings
Gazing at the sunset
Tai and Kai
Smiles after a day at the beach
Camera ready
More sun set shots
My favorite people
Tolman ladies signing off...xxx

Smarty Pants

2009-03-16T04:26:00.000-07:00

Just and update on my little smarty pants. Another bragging parent moment...please excuse me! Last week we had a parent-teacher conference with Kiara's teacher. I was literally beaming from ear to ear with pride. Mrs. Tai, (the best teacher I could ever ask for for my daughter!) told us that Kiara was an absolute joy to have in class and that she had nothing but positive things to say about her. We were so proud to hear she is an exceptional student in nearly every area. She is reading at a first grade level, spelling complex words, and writing and putting together multiple sentences. She is a leader in class and is helpful and kind to her classmates.

Oh my goodness! My little girl is four years old?!?! and is reading and writing!?! Where has the time gone? She is growing TOO fast. Does anyone know how I can slow down time?

I am constantly in awe of the things she says and does. She is such a sweet, kind-hearted, and sincere person. She is constantly singing and dancing around the house, she has an amazing imagination and is always inventing games to play. She loves school and is passionate about learning. Almost daily she writes me "love" letters telling me that I am the "Best Momy" and draws pictures of her family. She is so brave with water sports! She loves swiming, snorkling, jet skiing, and most recently body boarding with her daddy. She is a fabulous big sister and is always helping me entertain Kaile. She will do anything to see her little sister laugh!...and then do that same thing another 100 times :) One of my favorite things about Kiara is that she is still the best cuddler! She is always saying to me when she sneaks into my room in the middle of the night, "mom, can I just cuddle for a little while and then I will go back to my bed?" How can a mother resist? She is so sweet and I love her more then anything in the world.

Her smiles lights up my life

Love you forever, like you for always, as long as I'm living, my baby you'll be.

Kaile Update

2009-02-26T02:37:00.001-08:00

Just a quick update on Kaile and the things she does daily to warm my heart. Beware the following will bore anyone besides myself and maybe the grandparents.

She has two teeth and two on the way.
Just yesterday she finally started crawling. She hates to be on her tummy so she crawls with one knee and one foot, then back to her bottom.
She never stops smiling and clapping.
Her favorite thing to do is go to Kiara's school. There is so much to see, and she loves watching the children. When the kids start coming out of the classroom, she starts to hyperventilate and does this "Paula clap" in anticipation of Kiara coming around the corner.
She lives on mango and tofu :)
She is absolutely addicted to her "silky" blankie. She can't sleep without it and when you put it next to her face she puckers her lips and rubs it all over her face (So cute....guess you had to be there :))
She has a darling little best friend named Ellie-Kate that every time she sees her she rips her hair clips out! (Really working on that one...oops!)
Her best tricks are "Kisses on demand" and "Raspberries"...we are such proud parents :)
Now that she is more mobile we are beginning to experience a bit of sibling rivalry. She likes to torture Kiara by taking her things. Kiara now lovingly calls her "the destroyer"

I can't believe she is nine months!

What did you put on my head?

This is a ridiculously big flower mom!

Off with this silly thing!

Roll'em, roll'em, roll'em!

February Holidays: Chinese New Year, V-Day, Spirit Week, & Waitangi Day!

2009-02-19T02:45:00.000-08:00

Gong Xi Fa Cai!
Welcoming in the "Year of the Ox" was so much fun! Lion dances, Open Houses, Chinese sweets and mandarin oranges. Kiara had a Chinese New Year parade at her school, exchanged "ang paus", and learned festive songs in Mandarin.

Our little good-luck Buddha!

2 Chinese Clad Princesses

Kiara found matching fangipanis in our neighborhood before school.

Kiara and her dear classmates

No love lost between Kai-Kai and the lion head!

Valentines Day Celebrations at home and school were a blast. Kiara is the best helper in the kitchen. Her skill: cleaning (licking) the bowl!

Baking cookies for school

Making Cards
There can't be Valentines day without chocolate!

Decorating mailboxes

Three future heart-breakers!

Spirit Week at school was a blast for Kiara...who doesn't approve of her drab school uniform. They had three days of "dress-up" themed days. She was in heaven!

Pajama Day

Tiger Day (school mascot)

Go Mont Kiara Tigers! Daddy loved doing the face painting.

Career Day
Kiara wants to grow up to be a Rock Star! (Nanna- she finally wore the tutu!) Her other options were doctor or teacher...."but their clothes aren't as cute".

Waitangi Day
Daddy was the talk of the town when he came and performed a wero and haka at Kiara's school for New Zealand's Waitangi Day.

Is that the smell of fear...or something else?

Introducing My New Shop: "EVE"

2009-01-25T20:57:00.000-08:00

Living abroad (without a work-visa) and leaving behind my small business in Utah, I have been wanting to do something work-wise. My entrepreneurial juices have been flowing for the last two years and I have gone from wanting to write a children's book, to teaching English, to even considering teaching hula classes! (Laugh away at the last one). Finally, I have teamed up with my sister and we have launched a small online store for a few little treasures we found traveling SE Asia. Check out our store, "EVE", and our debut collection of children's hats.

The name EVE is a shout-out to mothers everywhere (especially our own!) and is a reflection of the reverence, respect, and gratitude we have for the many mothers who have inspired us to be better at what we do and who we are. Enjoy!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6769751

Sneak peak...we will be launching EVE's flagship product in May '09, a fabulous line of diaper handbags. The creative process has been a blast and I hope you will enjoy the final product as much as we do. Stay tuned!

xx, Tanya