Isabel and friends at Hyatt Hotel

Christmas is in the Air!

My dear Isabel

I know you don't understand me yet, my little Isabel, but mommy really wants to wish you a very merry first Christmas. Mommy has been dreaming about having you for many years now.

When Mommy was injured 4 years ago and the doctors said mommy cannot have a baby any time soon, I was so distraught and worried that i would never meet you. Luckily mommy recovered and also fell in love with daddy, so that we can have you with us now.

I remember meeting Emma, your second cousin, two years ago. She was so cute and I thought I wish I can have one just like her. Well, I got my wish and you turned out even more darling than I expected.

I really cannot believe that you are my daughter and I am your mommy, but I am so glad it's true. I cannot imagine life without you. It's hard for me even when I don't see you for just a few hours. I cannot believe how much joy you have brought me by just watching you grow. Your little laugh always warms my heart and your curiosity about everything inspires me to look at life more simply and with excitement too.

I hope we can always be as close as we are now. Mommy will always be there for you, no matter what. I hope for you a lifetime of experiences, adventure, love, and laughter. Merry Xmas and Happy New Year, my little one.

Love always,
your mommy... :-)

Is This A Glimpse at My Future?

This looks like I've taken a peek into my future about 9 years from now. Could it be that I'm destined for two more daughters? After seeing this picture, I think I would love it. But just to make sure, I'm sorry to anyone for anything that I did anywhere at anytime. Did you hear me God? I only say this because I know what my father went through with one daughter (sorry Em) ... and she was relatively low maintenance. Can you imagine that times three?

These three lovely sisters just happen to be my cousins from Canada on loan to Lei and I for the holiday pic.

- Jaime

Christmas in Vegas

In two days we'll be celebrating Christmas time in Vegas with our family. Everyone's flying in from around the world ( I just wish it was the entire family, but that would take up one of the resorts!).

Everytime we touchdown in Vegas, it's off to the races for food and relaxation. I know I know, "what about the gambling?" you may ask. I must be the only asian person that doesn't gamble (and imagine being able to say that visiting sin city 4 times a year!). I've never been much of a gambler. I'm all about calculated risk, baby!

Christmas represents a time for us to get the family together. And this usually encompasses one main function in our family: FOOD. On this trip, the family recipes for prime rib, bacalau (Portuguese codfish dish), and paella (Spanish seafood rice dish) will be waiting for us. You know....the traditional type of Christmas meal (if you have a family that's as mixed up as mine).

So wherever you are and whatever you do for the holidays, just remember to be thankful doing it with your family during the holiday meal. Happy Holidays from us to you!

- Jaime