Sister Malupo

I have been postponing this blog, even thought of not doing it at all for privacy's sake, but I'd feel ungrateful if I didn't express my feelings of love and gratitude for my sister-in-law.

Late December, we got a call from Bo's little sister Fehi, whom at the time was 5 mos. into her mission in Indiana. After ignoring the unknown number on my cell (sorry sis, I don't DO strange numbers) we finally talked to her on the house phone. The shock of our missionary even calling period (a privilege allowed only under special circumstances) confirmed my in-laws' worries about a previous call 2 weeks prior, notifying them of her trip to the ER due to fatigue and excessive/prolonged bleeding during a very abnormal menstrual cycle. With tears in her eyes, my mother-in-law uttered the word "cancer" and all I could think about was how swiftly one can be taken by its oft times undetected grip.

However, when I spoke to Sister Malupo that day, her voice was not sad, despite being told her blood clots were tested and possibly cancerous and that she needed to come home right away. I broke down and asked all the whats, wheres, hows, and whys, but she reassured us that we needn't worry, for this was just another trial for her. She calmed me down instantly because her spirits were high (like most missionaries), her attitude upbeat, and her faith unwavering. She even made me laugh with her corny "I'm just rollin' with my homie Jesus Christ" line. Secretly, I was so stoked that she was coming home, but under the circumstances, I was trying to be positive for her and sensitive to what she was going to have to endure!

She arrived in Hawaii just before New Years and saw a specialist a few days later. After more testing, it was confirmed that she did indeed have Uterine Cancer, which for her meant a hysterectomy, and sadly, the loss of her ability to bear children. {Ugh, I know. She's only 22!} The doctor asked if she wanted to have children now, and if so, she could before proceeding with the operation. But being in her very "nun-like" position, this was a silly question. She told him, "Go ahead and take it out, I have to go back to my mission!" Her positive attitude and smiles shocked the doctor--who got a pass-a-long card from her mind you--and even though he called her "weird" he was happy she took the news like a champ. He gave her an estimation of about March-ish, for her to be able to return back to Indiana.

After undergoing a successful surgery the 20th of Jan., she spent the next couple weeks healing with a lot of rental movies and late nights on the couch with friends. She'd only been on recovery for a week before I gave birth to Laila, and yet she mustered the strength to visit us at Queens. About a month later she was back to normal and enjoying life again; playing with my kids, visiting friends, attending church & firesides, and even making YOUTUBE videos of her dancing Polynesian numbers as a favor to her friend. After getting confirmation from the doctor that the cancer went with her uterus, she was cleared to return to her mission. Three days ago, SHE called the Mission President (anxious much?) only to find out that they were already making preparations for her and that she would leave...today. And so she did.

Sister Malupo left just as abruptly as she came home, and I'm sitting here questioning where the time had gone? We didn't have a big farewell of sorts, in fact my husband and his older sister didn't even get to say goodbye. I think deep down inside, no one really wanted her to leave. Seeing Lole run and hug her with tears streaming down her face was the saddest thing I have witnessed in a while, because they'd become so close. Even I have found it difficult today to hold back the tears because of what it meant for me to have her here, especially after giving birth.

Without her even knowing it, she has shared and often carried my burdens; when I was an emotional wreck returning home from the hospital, when I was too scared to drive with my newborn in the backseat alone, when I was upset at Bo because he was still drinking, when I needed someone to keep Lole company while I tended to baby, or when I just needed a few minutes to myself to regroup. I mean, more than just a convenient second hand, having Fehi here was a comfort that I'm going to miss dearly. Being able to say "Can you go to the store for me", or "Do you mind driving us to our appt. in Kailua" or "Can you watch the kids while I take a hot shower?" was such a complete load off my shoulders, because every bit of help (as a mother to a newborn again) was needed. I felt so "not alone" with her around, and I especially appreciated her being there for Lole, whom Fehi called "Giiiiiirlfren!" everyday. I will miss watching them joke/dance/sing/hang out together as if Lole was a big girl. I will miss her excitement every time she sees Laila in the morning and how she laughed in amazement at how much heavier she was than the day before. I will miss her because talking to her made me feel young again and appreciative of my kids.
I mentioned earlier how I hesitated to write this post, and it was mostly because when she first came home, she wanted to keep things private to avoid a pity-party. For her, nothing else mattered but to return to do the work of the Lord in administering to the people of Indiana. Although her service to them was interrupted for 3 mos., she continued here at home and I never once heard her complain or do the "woe is me" dance. It was such a blessing to have her here for Laila's birth as well as Lole's 4th birthday. I am so grateful Heavenly Father allowed her this brief time with us. She is my hero and a wonderful example of faith in His Eternal Plan. Thank you Sister Malupo for all that you are and all that you have done for us. WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH and wish you endless success while in HIS service. INDIANA or BUST...again!

My President is ______

"Mr. Black President, yeah Obama for real
They gotta put ya face on the 5000 dollar bill"

It's pretty exciting to witness our President in action, even though his term has barely started and the repair work on our nation is just scratching the surface. This video came out after Obama won the election and I've seen it and heard the song 100 times. I couldn't help but wonder if our Pres. elect has ever seen it, and if so, whether or not he sings along! Lol. I know it's such a random thought and although catchy, the song is the artist's (Young Jeezy's) portrayal of what Obama in office symbolizes for him, and maybe not all can relate. Obama being black has never been an influence in my decision to vote for him...he could've been purple for all I cared. But the song makes me wonder if white America takes offense to the idea of our Pres being labeled as black when he is also white? Did anyone write a song called "My President is Half-White"?

I've read that Obama refers to himself as African-American, like I am Samoan-American (of Samoan descent, but raised in America), but should the correct term for him be "African-Caucasian-American"? And if that's the case, should white people say they are "Caucasian-American"? Hmmm...just things I think about, I mean really what does it matter in these hard times as long as he doesn't give AIG anymore money. I'll just make it easy on myself and label him HAWAIIAN (since he's a product of our lovely islands) and write a song called "Eh Bah, my Prez stay from Hawaii!"

Hawaii Children's Discovery Center

Since Lole is now four, yesterday was her last day in our Na Kamalei preschool. It was also the last day of our session (typically celebrated with a closing party) and our field trip day at the the Hawaii Children's Discovery Center in Honolulu. Lole and I had never been there before, and we were lucky enough to have Dad join us because he'd been sick all week and was tired of staying home. My sister Fia had Juju along with my other nephew Nalu with her. We got there bright and early at 9am, and I wasn't sure what to expect. It turned out to be so much fun! I don't really know the words to describe it, except that it is a great place for kids to explore the world around them. They have mini exhibits where kids can"play" cop, repairman, judge, banker, dentist, chef, and newscaster to name a few. They got to dress up in outfits, act out on stage, pretend to fish, and blow huge bubbles. They had a mock airplane and sailboat exhibit, some international exhibits and Lole's favorite, the play store where they could buy groceries. The center only had another school besides ours in attendance, along with a few other regular visitors, so it was a bit crowded at times. After about 2 hours, our school had a party outside where we ate mini bentos and the kids got their end of session certificates and goodie bags. Lole called the place "awesome" and had so much fun she knocked out as soon as we left. We are definitely taking her back there again. I only got a few pics before my battery died, most of the good ones are from my sister's camera. Enjoy!
(PS for Parents: If you're going to make the trip out here, there's a beautiful park nearby for a picnic. So bring your kids, your camera, and a cooler of food & drink for a nice Spring Break activity.)

OUCH. THAT HURT.

Those were the words I uttered after leaving the Canon Activities Center in Laie, and it wasn't because my butt was sore from sitting on the bleachers. In front of a crowd of over 4,000 (WOW!), the BYUH Mens Basketball team lost their chance to the BIG 16 in last night's regional conference matchup. It was an upsetting game considering we were up by as many as 13 or so points and led throught the whole game up until the last few minutes. Whoever heard of CAL POLY POMONA anyway? In my opinion, CPP didn't deserve to win, but such is the nature of competition...you win some, you lose some (a concept my husband doesn't understand). He left the game so disgruntled and angry because he said "I didn't sit uncomfortably for NOTHING", and demanded we leave AS SOON as the buzzer deemed us LOSERS. I, on the other hand, LIVE for this type of heart-wrenching matches, and found the game entertaining and the loss stunning. But that doesn't take away from the loyalty I give to my Seasiders, who much like the Kahuku Boys Bbball team, had so much talent but suffered an amazing season-ender. (They only lost once prior to last night's game.) That's the difference between Bo and I...he carries no loyalty to BYUH or Kahuku HS being from the mainland, but win or lose, I take pride in our North Shore athletes whether high school, college, elementary...it doesn't matter, even if I'm there or not.

This being the first BYUH game I've watched all season, I was really impressed with Juniors

Lucas Alez, the Pac-West player of the year (out of Brazil)

and

Virgil "JR" Buensuceso, the baddest ball-handler on the team (out of California).

Because of them, I'm definitely coming back next season, but sheesh, that still hurt...

AKAs

AKA's - this one is fun and easy. Change the info below and add you own answers!

1. YOUR REAL NAME: Matatala Audrey Poloai Malupo
2. WITNESS PROTECTION NAME (mother and father's middle names): They don't have any, so I guess I'd be nameless
3. NASCAR NAME (first name of your mother's dad, father's dad): Folau Tivao
4. STAR WARS NAME (the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first name): Malma
5. DETECTIVE NAME (favorite color, favorite animal): Pink Panther...haha. ok i lie, Panther's not my fav animal...really I don't have one, but I think that chihuahua's are cute, so PINK CHIHUAHUA
6. SOAP OPERA NAME (middle name, town where you were born): Audrey Provo
7.SUPERHERO NAME (2nd fav color, fav drink, add "THE" to the beginning): The Black Mug <--root beer
8. FLY NAME (first 2 letters of 1st name, last 2 letters of your last name): Mapo
9. STREET NAME (fav ice cream flavor, fav cookie): Rocky Road Chocolate Chip
10. ROCK STAR NAME (current pets name, current street name): Leila Kamehameha (We don't have a pet, so "Leila" is Lole's stuffed cat's name)
11. YOUR GANGSTA NAME(first 3 letters of real name plus izzle): Matizzle
12. YOUR GOTH NAME (black, and the name of one of your pets): Black Rocky

LOLE: FOUR YEARS and COUNTING

As mentioned in my post below, Lole turned four this past weekend, on the 14th. Normally, every year I make a little music *video featuring pics and clips of the highlights of that year, but I've been so busy and TIRED lately that I haven't come around to it. Until then, here are a few things I wanted to share about her to date.

Lole was an only child for 4 years, so a lot of her personality traits are a result of her being amongst many adults throughout her life. She is mature for her age, not just in attitude (which she packs a lot of) but in her language and mannerisms as well. She is often telling people what to do, how to do it, and enjoys the company of young adult ladies just as much as she does children her own age. Her favorite thing right now is wearing dresses, lip gloss, fancy shoes, and anything that she thinks is pretty. She loves cheese pizza and close to nothing else, but is slowly broadening her tastes to things like pasta and broccoli. She's definitely a Storyteller; sometimes giving false accounts of things just for the sake of conversation, and likes to explain things to me like I'm 3 instead of 30. She doesn't discriminate when it comes to music, and can sing a tune even after hearing it only once or twice. Lole likes to pretend she can speak Spanish and sometimes when the Tongan language is being spoken in our home, she will try to mimic whoever is speaking, usually in a joking manner. She loves to laugh and point out the funnies people say or do, and is very empathetic when it comes to situations that call for sensitivity, as in death, pain or other sad things. Even though she's still super shy in public and not comfortable enough to sit in a structured dance class (she tried), Lole likes to dance Polynesian dances and the more modern, hip-hop. Lately, she's been showing some rather grown-up moves (thanks to Single Ladies, ABDC, and other dance acts she's seen) but she's so cute and usually complies when I tell her what is appropriate vs. inappropriate. Her cousin Juju is still her best friend, though they fight a lot more than they used to when they were younger. Best of all, Lole is a great big sister and often cries when she can't hold her baby or when others do so without her consent. I'm so blessed to have her in my life, and look forward to enjoying more of her wonderful personality in years to come.

*Lole's videos:
Lole's Arrival - Pregnancy, Birth, up to about 4 mos. (Song: Fiji's "Jowenna")
She's One - about 3 mos. to 1 year (Song: "Mihi Au Ia Oe")
Turning Two - Age 1 to 2 (Song: "Little Girls" by Riff)
Lole & Friends Age 3 (Song: Miley Cyrus' "True Friend")

Birthday Weekend

Ahhhh, our sweet Lole turned 4 on Saturday, March 14th. It was a pretty restless week, considering I didn't really plan anything major for her. On Thursday we had a get together for our whole school, so I surprised her with a huge birthday cake and all the kids sang for her.

On her actual birthday, she chose cocoa and french bread (her favorite) and eggs for breakfast. Then we went to Walmart to get a few things and also let her choose whatever she wanted for a gift. She chose a pink sundress and a walking puppy. Next we hit up Costco for some baby things and food for her birthday dinner on Sunday. It was such a long day (and we sang Happy Birthday to her numerous times on the ride and in the stores) and by the time we got home I was so hash, it hurt to close my eyes. Here we are goofing off after a long day of shopping!

Sunday she wore her white dress from Aunty Seta and new shoes that I bought for her birthday as well, and I surprised her Sunbeam class with pink strawberry cupcakes & lolipops.

There were only 3 kids (don't know what happened to the others) total so they got to have their fill.

Later that evening we had an eating with our neighbors and some of our close family, to enjoy some GRUB: Chicken Broccoli, Teri Meatballs, Crab Salad, Lu-Sipi, Tapioka, Rice, Shrimp & a family favorite, (my mother-in-law's) Apple Otai. My sister made her a cute Barbie cake which looked so good we left her untouched and ate the the other desserts.

Lole had a great time reveling in the attention and celebration of and FOR HER, and loved her (oh so girly) gifts from her cousins in Kahuku & Utah, money from Grandma in Utah, and of course the spoilings from mom and dad. Even though it wasn't a big party, we made sure she had a pinata, but this is the last time coz she didn't even wanna touch it! Hmmph! I'm sure glad birthdays come only once a year!

ALOHA HARD!

Lole was gone all day with her aunt and grandparents so I was home alone with my baby. I thought we'd get some good napping time, but I ended up doing 5 loads of laundry, cleaning the room, and catering to Laila's every need. My biggest dilemma with her right now is feeling like I have inadequate milk supply and still trying to get her to latch GOOD everytime. (Whoever said breastfeeding was easy didn't have a child who opened her mouth a half an inch in diameter) So today was one of those days where she seemed to be unsatisfied and needed to be fed constantly...I even pumped and supplemented so I could make sure she was getting enough, but for some reason she was restless and COULD NOT SLEEP THE WHOLE DAY until about 8 or 9pm. I have never seen her so tired and cranky, and frankly I am right now too, but I had to share this ROCK video from Anapesi's blog before I close my eyes...watch it, it's hillarious! Hanohano...lol!.

SUNDAY THOUGHTS

Oh man, I just woke up from an afternoon nap and it feels so good to have gotten some Zzzs. (I haven't had a day nap in like a week!) Anyway, nothing really interesting to blog about today, just wanna shoot some random lines through here real quick. Today was our Laie Hawaii Stake Conference. Normally I am really attentive at these things, but with my itchy-pants-can't-sit-down-need to use the bathroom as soon as we get up the stairs-toddler, my hungry & pooping infant, and my snoring husband, i managed to catch just a few bits & pieces. I believe our Stake theme for the next 6 mos. is "Look to Jesus and live". Three separate talks on CONTENTION, TITHING, and STRENGTHENING the FAMILY helped me re-learn the following: contention inhibits us from living truly happy lives, there is no insurance more important than paying tithing, and the most valuable work anyone can ever do in the church is that which happens within the walls of your own homes. Not bad considering the above noted distractions! I was also star-struck by the KHS BBALL players I saw in attendance, after a heartbreaking State Championship loss to Kamehameha the night before (47-45). My favorite center Kona Schwenke, 6'8" Christian Feagai, and star point guard Irwin AhHoy (even the nation's famed football star Manti Te'o) were all there sitting with their FAMILIES. And so my favorite quote from conference is "Where family ends, delinquency begins!" I'm not sure which prophet said that, but it is my goal to make a home where my family loves to be, so they don't seek for love/acceptance anywhere else. All in all a great day!

RED RAIDER BBALL

The Kahuku Boys beat Iolani tonight in the State Semis in yet another 4th quarter heart stopper. (The night before they inched past Punahou 40-39) It was an awesome game, and a little close for comfort but what can you expect when you have the best in the state battling it out for the Championship game. I was kinda hoping Kaimuki would've beat no. 1 ranked Kamehameha so Kahuku (ranked no. 2) could play the Bulldogs for the 6th time this season...but we're going head to head with the Warriors and it's gonna be O for AWESOME! Nehoa Akina you're my hero (5 3's in the game, 17 total) but my favorite moment was the "Play of the Game" when an Iolani player stole the ball from us and ran base to base only to get swatted by Jray Galeai under tha basket. If this were football, that would've been a sort of "KATOOSH" moment. Ahhh. Good game boys and GOOD LUCK AT THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS TOMORROW!

Bottle from Heaven

I saw this on "A BABY STORY" yesterday and I was blown away. Apparently it was also featured on Oprah (but I don't watch her much) and was designed for upright feeding--thus reducing ear infections and colic--but is ideal (and lifesaving) for feeding multiples. It's a hands-free feeding solution so when you're traveling, need to feed more than one at a time, or just plain tired, you don't have to hold your baby's bottle for them. In fact you don't even have to hold your baby! While baby is in the carseat or stroller, or on a pillow, just stick the nipple in and set the bottle upright to the side. (The tube works as a straw!) It's so convenient and dare I say...LAZY, but ingenious nonetheless. These are definitely on my baby items wish list!

GIRLS!

Today is GIRLS DAY (recognized and adopted from ancient Japanese culture) as I found out at Lole's school early this afternoon. We celebrated there by making cherry blossom trees for art and sushi for snacks. Lole is NOT a fan of sushi, but since she made it herself she gave it a whirl and took a few bites. After school she got to eat her favorite food (cheese PIZZA), and I bought the ice cream of her choice as well as a bag of lollipops. We even made Pillsbury choc chip cookies--officially my new favorite ready-made dough--which I ate most of. My little girl is growing up way too fast, and here's my proof. I almost died today when she out of the blue asked "Mommy do you have sexy with boys?"--{To myself: "Did I just hear what I thought I heard?"} "What are you talkin about Lole?" and then she asked me again. I was so dumbfounded I just said "NO!" First of all, Lole does know the word SEXY...she thinks it means looking cute or hot, but how she connected that with boys is a mystery to me and I am HORRIFIED. I admit sometimes we are careless when it comes to screening what we see on TV, but this is scary. Disney Channel you are officially our new best friend again....you and these cookies. {oiaue}

SHORT HAIR

I don't know if it's just a Polynesian thing or not, but long hair seems to be a timeless trademark in our culture. I've had long hair all of my life, except for the one or two occasions my hair had to get chopped for ukus in elementary school. lol. (Where is my 4th grade pic when I need it?) Anyway, I KNOW what I look like with long hair so 2 years ago, I let my husband chop it!

Since then, I've been wanting to grow my hair back, but it was stuck in that UGLY stage--when it's not long enough or short enough to do anything cute with it--so for the past few months of pregnancy and weeks after giving birth, I'd been sporting the lazy TRASH BUN/PONYTAIL! YUK! So, I finally went back to the salon and I was surprised at how brave I was. I know, It's so short I can't even pull it back when I'm hot, but I'm so relieved to be rid of my lazy fa'apaku and ponytail. The hard part will be trying to get it to look like this everyday and knowing me...it probably WON'T!

PAY IT FORWARD

Okay, so 2 of my friends on here have blogged about this and I'm totally in to it because of the element of surprise...so here's the game:

1. Be one of the first THREE bloggers to leave a comment on this post, which then entitles you to a handmade item from me (i will add "semi-handmade" too just in case).

2. Winners must post this challenge on their own blog, meaning that you will pay it forward, creating a handmade gift -anything!- for the first THREE bloggers who leave a comment on YOUR post about this giveaway!

3. The gift that you send to your 3 friends can be from any price range and you have 365 days to make/ship your item. This means you should be willing to maintain your blog at least until you receive your gift and have shipped your gifts. And, remember it’s the spirit and the thought that count!

4. When you receive your gift, blog about it! If you are not one of the first three to comment on this post, you can still play along. Go ahead and start your own Pay It Forward chain, and encourage your blogging friends to do the same! It's all about paying it forward.

ew Sick!

So on Wednesday I was out THE ENTIRE DAY with the stomach flu. Unfortunately, having the squirts, (yah i said it), vomiting, body & head aches, didn't excuse me from my duties as milkmaid, even though I had to supplement a lot! It was a hard 24 hours, trying to still be a mother to my kids whilst laying in bed, but thankfully the next day it was all OVER! Lole was such a help (just for that day) by getting my water, helping me with baby, and best of all, no whining from her about dresses, lipgloss, or messy hair. Laila on the other hand kept staring at me funny while I was laying there in pain. I hadn't been sick for a really long time so I'm really glad it was just a 24 hour bug. You really do have nothing without your health!

My Tongan Girl

Here's Lole trying to sing "OFA MO'ONI"--one of her and her dad's favorite Tongan songs.

THREE WEEKS

Laila turned 3 weeks yesterday and grows stronger by the day. She is often comforted by music and loves talking to her Dad. We melt every time we chance a smile from her, and laugh at her frequent farting. She is a heavy sleeper and will not discriminate when it comes to bottles, formula, or susu...she'll take whatever. She is such a joy and we are loving every minute!

Scoldings from my Sunbeam

On Sunday we left church after Sacrament Mtg, but not before taking Lole to primary. Even though I felt guilty for ditching, we arranged for Grandma or Aunty to pick her up after class, and went home with baby. I was half asleep when Lole came home and this is what she said to me and Bo after bursting through the door.

"HEY, why did you guys leave church? JESUS IS GONNA SASA YOU!"

Lol. You have all been forewarned.

Picture Tag

*From Hine

The Rules:
1. Go to your Documents/ Pictures
2. Go to you 6th Folder (if get)
3. Go to your 6th Picture
4. Blog about it
5. Tag 6 people to do the same
6. Here we go...6th photo from the 6th folder of 2009: Well, I think this picture is pretty self-explanatory. Our baby girl is finally here, and her big sister couldn't be happier. Here, Laila is 4 days old and she'd been home with us for 2 days. Lole is 3 yrs. old (going on 16) and loves her sister so much she doesn't like to share. Even at 4 days old, Laila could be seen moving her head around to find Lole's face when she talked. How sweet is that? I, on the other hand, was still experiencing the "baby blues", most especially that day because Dad had to go back to work. I cried about everything and nothing (maybe because I never picked up my pain killers still to this day) and actually missed the hospital and all the "pampering" from the nurses. Ahh, I LOVE MY GIRLS!

I TAG: Anyone

OH BABY!!!

HERE SHE IS!

LAILA FIAGATASI MALUPO

BORN: JAN 29, 2009 @ 5:54 AM

WEIGHT: 8 LBS. 15 OZ.
HEIGHT: 20 in

THE BASICS:
1/27 Midnight- Mucus plug came out
1/28 3 am- Thought my water was leaking
1/28 6 am - Arrived at Queens Hospital (contractions every 5 mins)
1/28 8 am- Found out I was still early and only about 2 cm dilated (grrr)
1/28 6 pm- Even after walking around, bouncing on the exercise ball, still only @ 3 cm, still contracting every 3-5...gave up trying to "rough it"after 12 hours and got the EPI! <--thank goodness, WTH was I thinking?
1/28 Midnight- Still at a 3, but comfortable as heck and getting some rest
1/29 3am- Discouraged and seriously contemplating C-SECTION
1/29 4:00 am- Water finally broke, fully dilated, now just waiting...meanwhile, the EPI is wearing off (AHHHH!) and nurse #4 won't give me anymore
1/29 5:54 am- After about an hour of pushing, she finally came out!

The feelings of relief and (not to mention violation) after she finally arrived were so unbelievable that I STILL DON'T KNOW HOW I DID IT. I know women do it all the time, but for me, every experience was totally NEW and I am still AMAZED. Successful VBAC, healthy baby, and recovering well...what more could I ask for?

Here are just a few pics:

Just got to the hospital, anxious Mom and Dad

Big sister Lole meeting Laila for the first time

Mean muggin like her dad

Click Here to see her hospital pics.

We've waited so long for Laila to finally arrive since discovering we were pregnant @ 4 weeks. She is a well-tempered baby (SO FAR) though throughout most of my pregnancy, I was an emotional wreck. In fact, the news of her conception came at a time when my marriage seemed to have been going to much lower lows than welcomed. Thus, her middle name (after my sister) means TOGETHER, or to bring together (as one). The timing of her arrival is no coincidence, and there's no doubt in my mind that my Heavenly Father, through the gift of her life, TRULY LOVES ME!

We love you BABY!

Aloha Harmony & Family

One of my best childhood friends left the comforts of Laie tonight en route to a new life in Utah. Harmony (Aumua) Tuisavura and her 5 kids are on their way now to join her husband Abu (who has been working in Utah for the last few months) where they will soon call LEHI their home. It's always been a comfort to have Harmony close by; she is one of those friends who are always there for you, offering her support, help at family and friend functions, or just that badly needed shoulder to cry on.

(L to R: Harm, Lucy w/daughter Hirirau, Ry)

This morning we were supposed to go out to eat breakfast one last time, but instead our good friend Mariaha (Peters) AhYou offered to cook for us. Ry made us delicious omelets (to order) and homemade waffles to die for! I think I had 3...yikes!

We didn't leave her house until almost 1 in the afternoon after catching up, snacking on donuts and muffins (after breakfast), and settling very comfortably on Ry's living room furniture while the kids ran around.

It was so nice to have one last little get together before Harm left. She'll be sorely missed, but we're excited for her chance at a new beginning and yet another great reason to visit Utah on a regular. Love you sass!

DAY DATE

Bo and I did absolutely NOTHING on our anniversary last week (Jan 15th), so today we went out for a much needed DAY DATE. We didn't have anything solid planned, but knew we needed to somehow treat ourselves in any way, shape, or form. By the time we got to town, the first place we spotted was TODAIs, so we quickly pulled over and had lunch. I was not that impressed, consuming mostly the shrimp and vegetable tempura, while Bo kept busy trying new things at the sushi bar (we're not big fans, but after today he might be)! I asked him to stop at the Walmart down the street from Todai's and help me find some things for the baby, but we were so FULL and tired from stuffing our faces that we ended up taking more than an HOUR NAP in the car before heading into the store! (I can't believe we did that!) Anyway, distracted by my need for baby things, we spent the rest of the afternoon looking for a carseat/stroller system and bassinet. We attempted to catch a movie, since we could finally watch something NOT-kid friendly, but all the good ones were too far past or too long of a wait for our tired, old bodies. Thus ended our Day Date. We didn't really get to TREAT ourselves--aside from lunch--but it was nice to have some couple time, and get the things we needed for baby. Even our nap was quite refreshing, though it clearly marks our age! I only managed to take one darn picture this whole day, of Bo and raw fish. The Day Date was fun, but I want a REAL anniversary celebration...maybe on Valentines.

I'M HAVIN' A B. F.!

Okay, maybe I should revert to my recent post and ask for GOD TO HELP ME coz right now I'm havin a "B.F. "type of day. (Watch "White Chicks" if you don't know what that means!) I don't know if it's the lack of sleep, my over-sized (not to mention aching) belly and body, heartburn, constipation, a gazillion shishi trips (pregnant mothers holler if you hear me), or WEDNESDAY in general, but today has not been good! I'm irritable and angry at nothing and everything at the same time. Or maybe I'm bipolar and don't know it? Among the top of my list of things I was supposed to do were visit my sis-in-law at the hospital, call one of my BFFs to wish him Happy Birthday, and have a night out with girlfriends for dinner and a movie. Neither will happen today, not the way I am feeling.
Today I just wanted to lay around and do nothing, but even the most mediocre/normal chores like cleaning up my room x2, picking up toys, laundry, loading the dishwasher, cooking dinner and catering to my 3 year old...all the things I DID NOT FEEL LIKE DOING today but did anyway, only fueled my irritation! I take it back on catering to my daughter, cause truthfully I only half-heartedly did so. She cried herself to sleep after I screamed "I don't wanna play with you" when she asked me to. Talk about BAD MOTHER! And even with the peace and quiet I got after she fell asleep, I still got angry at the random TV shows I was watching; Barefoot Contessa lady for making a delicious looking chocolate cake I could only fantasize about how good it tastes, some Bridezilla for demanding ORGANIC WINE for her wedding, and Oprah of all people for looking so raggedy on her show today. WHAT...IS...WRONG...WITH...ME? I called my husband to warn him that I am having a REALLY REALLY bad day as a courtesy before he comes home from work and gets caught unaware of my B.F. and the only thing he says is that"It's time to take the baby out!"--AS IF you can just go to the hospital with absolutely no labor symptoms and say, "Hi, yes, I'm having a crappy day today, so could you do me a favor and remove this child from my womb?"

Needless to say, I feel a little better after eating half a box of choc macadamia nuts and receiving confirmation from my husband that I WILL be getting some much needed pampering this weekend. Whether it's a haircut, nails, massage, dinner, movie, shopping....whatever, even if it's just soaking on the sand alone, I'll get my fix to get rid of this pre-birth B.F.!

"SO HELP ME GOD!"

Watching the Inauguration of our newly elected President (and Vice President) of the United States, I couldn't help but key in to their last words after taking the oath of office... "So help me God!" What a humbling statement for these great men to acknowledge HE who has no doubt been instrumental in bringing them to this historic day, knowing well that they cannot fulfill such an enormous calling without HIS help. President Obama has an unenviable responsibility, what with all the patch-work ahead in healing this wounded nation. For this, I have a great deal of respect and admiration for our leader and share in his plea for the Lord's help in his every footstep.
"America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. {""Let it be told to the future world ... that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive... that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it].""} With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested, we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back, nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations."

Baby Marley

My oldest sister Seta had her 7th (and final) child last week Monday. Here she is, the newest addition to our family, shortly after birth. Love you and can't wait to meet you!

QUEEN'S Birthing Center Tour

After church today, I was scheduled to take a tour of the Labor & Delivery Wing at the Queen's Medical Center where we're having baby. I had not done a tour of Castle Hospital before giving birth to Lole, so this was a new thing for me, and in fact, I dreaded the thought of having to go anywhere else but Castle, since that was all I knew. Bo was supposed to come with, but he had to work, so Lole was my companion and the only child among like 20 other couples also present for the tour. Right away we were gifted some baby magazines that included samples & coupons, as well as a token photo album for our new baby (since we don't have any pics of her yet, we stuck in our family pic)

I was pleasantly surprised and extremely grateful I made the trip because I feel so much more at ease and informed. Last week someone told me that Queen's was like a hotel, and I didn't believe it until I walked into the front lobby...the ambiance was nothing like I had experienced in other hospitals! (Sorry, I was too much in a rush to take a picture) The Maternity Floor is at the very top of the tower (10 stories up) and offers great views of the city and enough separation and safety from the rest of the patients/visitors in the hospital. I don't remember if Castle had this, but the baby's anklets/bracelets are sensored to set off the alarm any time someone tampers with them, or leaves the hospital without proper deactivation, thus automatically locking the double doors--exits and entrances--to prevent baby abduction. Cool! I learned that besides having 2 C-Section ORs, on-site anesthesiologists/pediatricians, and 9 delivery rooms all on the same floor, they also offer twice a day classes to teach you how to bathe your newborns. They even have a class that preps young children (if they're going to be present at the birthing) and one that teaches them the what's and what not's of caring for/holding/touching baby. Castle never had that, nor did they have a lunch cart come to YOU everyday so you don't have to drag your post-partum body to the cafeteria<--also something Castle does not have-->for snacks or whatever...Bo will love it here. However, when I showed him a picture of what will magically turn into HIS BED, he laughed and looked at me like I was crazy.

Good luck hunny! Anyway, the whole thing took like an hour, only because there were so many of us, and we waited around a bit for latecomers. The staff was friendly and I assume a little more personable than maybe those of a hospital like Kapiolani (dubbed the "baby factory") because Queen's averages about 200 births a month, whereas Kapiolani can easily do that in less than a week. Overall, I left completely satisfied with my choice to give birth here. Now I just have to decide whether or not to continue with my original plans to have a VBAC or to opt for a repeat C-section. (Yes, I am having second thoughts!) In the meantime, here is the most recent picture of me and baby girl...almost 38 weeks!

Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam

Can I just say that the very first time Lole went to Jr Primary, she was so scared that I had to sit with her during opening exercises, hold her hand, and accompany her in class to prevent the waterworks that began the second Sacrament mtg was over. She bawled so much that I almost gave up and took her home, but I knew that the only reason she had a hard time was because she became so accustomed to our (mine and Bo's) inactivity, that even Nursery was no longer a desire, let alone Primary. At the turn of the year, I knew this was a wrong I needed to fix. It's now her 3rd week as a SUNBEAM and I am so proud of her for not requesting my presence ever since. In fact, she loves her teacher and tells me each week that she's definitely going to her OWN class and will NOT cry for me...so far so good! I admit I peek in on her between classes only to find she is perfectly fine, but I miss her even for those 2 hrs. I am so grateful for her adjusting and giving me another reason to be more active, after all...Jesus wants ME too for a Sunbeam.

Lined up with some of her class, waiting for Primary to start

SEVEN POUNDS

No, I haven't watched the movie yet...I had my 36 week appt yesterday and found out that's how much weight I've gained in 9 days...WHAT THE? -- So I'm pushing the 40-something lb. pregnancy gain mark (about the same as when I was with Lole) and even though it seems like a great excuse, it's ridiculous that my gain is so close to Lole's current 45 lbs. WOW. No extra desserts for me from now on.

I'm Back!

O-M-G. Yes, I'm still alive! For the past month I haven't had much access to the comp so when I did get on, I ended up just staring at y'allz pages without bothering to post anything. I finally got a new PC so this should go much smoother. Baby no. 2 is still nameless even though she is due within the coming weeks. I have been "nesting" lately and trying to mentally and then physcially gather the things I need for her arrival, but I'm still stuck on a name. (Sorry sweetheart!) Anyway, our Christmas and New Years was great, and I don't mean that in a worldy sense. I was greatful that my daughter didn't really care about presents so much as she did the IDEA of Christmas. Of course her Dad had to get her something ridiculous in my book, but she loves her little ATV. New Years Eve we stayed home and burned money like everyone else, but it was great to say goodbye to 2008 and turn a new leaf with a hope that things will be better than they were. Here's wishing you all a belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

THE CHRISTMAS BOX

JUST WANTED TO RECOMMEND THIS BOOK BY RICHARD PAUL EVANS CALLED "THE CHRISTMAS BOX" FOR ANYONE LOOKING FOR A QUICK HOLIDAY READ. IT'S VERY SHORT AND SWEET, AND A GOOD REMINDER FOR US ALL OF HOW WE SHOULD CELEBRATE DAILY THE TRUE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS.

HOALA NA PUA/NA KAMALEI - K.E.E.P.

My daughter attends a local early education program called HOALA NA PUA, servicing parents and their children ranging from 18 mos. to 4 years. Its parent non-profit organization called NA KAMALEI works with the Ko'olauloa community of Oahu and through Hoala Na Pua strives to nurture parents and children "in an inclusive environment by providing stimulating experiences, utilizing the Hawaiian and English languages in music, language development, socialization and creative arts."

One of their major developments includes The Ho'ulu Hou Project: Stories Told By Us, a series of books published in Hawaiian and English, which feature the "stories of the history, geography, language and culture" of the Ko'olauloa Community. They are very unique and fun to read because many authors and pictures are recognizable places and people in our community. As a courtesy to the children of Hoala Na Pua, we receive most, if not all, of the published copies which are now s0ld at our local Borders. Isn't that awes0me? They're very interesting/entertaining and we love and cherish our collection. At our recent Thanksgiving party, we were gifted 11 more titles and a free Na Kamalei book bag!

For more info about our school (now recruiting and accepting applicants) and/or the books, visit http://www.nakamalei.org

Belated Thanksgiving Post

This is way late but better than never. Thanksgiving was awes0me this year because all of my holiday food cravings were met. I actually started eating turkey and ham for dinners leading up to Thanksgiving s0 I had more than my share, but I gotta eat for two right? We feasted at my sister's this year and everything was s0 yummy cause she made all the meals, even little festive centerpieces, all I had to do was chew! Thanks sis for letting me invite myself and my family over. Here are a few after pics:

My sis and her beautiful family

The kids pose

And another