Rantings of the On Family

Fun times outside

2010-10-23T19:18:00.003-05:00

An overcast day but the weather was a balmy 61 in Wisconsin.

Before going to the YMCA for the Halloween event Ryan and Mason wanted to walk around.

They had fun chasing each other and playing on the park.

Trick or treat at the Y

2010-10-23T18:49:00.003-05:00

Today at the YMCA they had a trick or treating activity for the kids. Ryan and Mason went and made a Halloween bag, ate some apples and popcorn, and played some games.

Another Networking event

2009-08-28T21:44:00.003-05:00

Here i am networking with someone at this event Friday night.

I was interested in what he was saying despite the expression on my face.

I really enjoy talking to new people and listening to their stories.

I also met a defense attorney who specializes in DUI(Driving Under the Influence)...

he had some of the funniest stories.

A fun night out.

Networking on the rooftop

2009-08-26T15:44:00.003-05:00

This was a blast! the 13th floor of the Milwaukee Athletic Club with some other professionals.

From Left to Right:

Som Souvong - Owner of Pathways - a web and design firm

Geoff Osmond - partner in Hosley, custom suits

Michael Sheppard - Financial Representative (we work together)

P90X Completed!

2009-08-23T00:35:00.006-05:00

Okay, so these photos are long overdue, b/c i actually started my 2nd round of P90X.

The results: i pulled in 1" on the stomach and waist.

I lost 5 lbs.

I added 1" on the guns and calves.

You can see that there is actually some definition.

By the way, if you were thinking..."Man, I thought there'd be better results."

It is not the system of P90X b/c I didn't change my eating habits as suggested.

If you know how much I eat you know what i mean.
ATTENTION BRUCE and PETE: Look who's got the bigger guns!

Google me

2009-04-25T20:31:00.002-05:00

I don't know if any of you know this but I love my name, Sherman On. It is very unique and memorable. I constantly Google: sherman on, to see what appears and i'm happy that my work website it always first to appear.

Why don't you Google yourself and see what comes up.

The 30 Day check-up

2009-04-21T18:42:00.003-05:00

Everyone - here are the photos after 30 days after doing P90X.

I am feeling great!

I still feel sore after the workouts but i am able to basically keep up with the routine.

I am able to run more during Thrs. night basketball at the church.

I will posting the 60 day check up so keep your eyes open for those.

March Madness

2009-03-20T09:39:00.005-05:00

No ladies and gentlemen this is not a rampage about the NCAA tournament and how BYU disappointed fans again with a 1st round knock-out.

I am talking about P90X! That's right, i started to workout my "core" and i'm on a mission to get totally ripped in the next 90 days - that will mean by June 9, 2009 i should be ready to be seen in a bathing suit without having to suck my rice gut in. however, i will still be pasty white...that unfortunately won't change as i live in wisconsin.

I started P90X March 9th b/c i wanted to get ripped and thought now is the time. with the weather cold i am not able to run on a regular basis so an indoor workout would be ideal. After working out for the week - i was totally sore. I was talking to a friend of mine, Mike, who said he also had P90X but had yet to put the 90 days to the test. So we decided to experience the pain together. so we started March 16th to workout at 5:30am. It is awesome! we feel like we are ripped until we stand in front of the mirror. Well, one day at a time and we'll get there.

i thought i'd post up my BEFORE pics for you all to see the transformation at 30 days, 60 and 90 days. my goal is to have a 6 pack at the end of the 90 days.

The rice gut.

Okay, so to be honest i didn't flex here so at my 90 day pic should be awesome!

The back is not too shabby. It is sad that i only look good from behind.

Oh yeah, and i had to stand in front of the cherry wood door b/c you wouldn't be able to see my next to the white walls...that is so sad.

The dilemma

2009-02-16T15:55:00.003-06:00

The other day i went to get the mail and there it was...the coveted Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition. I grabbed it with glee and got into my car...but then the craziest mental debate began. It first started off with a back flash to the battle of 1993...Pete versus dad in the Battle of Bakinis. the mag arrives and dad says that we cannot "read" (a.k.a. drool over) the beauty shots. Pete replies that he loves "reading" (again drooling over) the sports commentary found within. Dad disappears with the magazine and later gives Pete back the magazine. Did dad see Pete's persuasion? NO. The photos were cut out. Dad won that battle.

Then I am brought back to 2009 with the magazine awaiting my thorough inspection of its contents. The inner dialogue is between Single Sherman and Married Sherman. Single Sherman couldn't be more excited to see supermodels in swimsuits
(more like underwear). I mean, it is better than the Victoria Secret catalog - thicker and bigger pictures...so I've been told. However, the sensible, married, father speaks up and says that "reading" this might not be the "ideal" way to spend time.

So i pull into our apartment and give the magazine to Esther (no reading on my part). She laughs at my inner controversy and debate. I end up giving it to a single friend of mine. he was elated to behold its pages.

Mouse...not in this house

2009-01-13T22:48:00.003-06:00

So the other day Esther and I just finished watching one of the many DVDs that her mother brought for us. In the corner of my eye I saw a black blob quickly jutting around my suitcase and bag. I tried not to attract attention to Esther, as i knew that she would be very upset. Luckily at this time Ryan and Mason were sleeping.

That black blob was in fact a mouse.

When i got up the mouse ran into the boys' play room. I quickly grabbed a pot to see if i could catch the quick rodent. he ran into the pot twice, but i couldn't really tell b/c the pot was black. the mouse then ran to the kitchen.

So i blocked off the kitchen with a couple of chairs. at this point Esther is really nervous...i lifted up the garbage can and there he was. i slammed the garbage can down and trapped that poor mouse. he started squeaking, so i put him out of his misery by pounding that garbage can on that mouse.

New chairs

2009-01-13T22:32:00.003-06:00

Po po decided to spoil her grandsons with their own chairs. Mason sitting happily in his own couch.

Christmas recap

2009-01-13T22:31:00.003-06:00

Here are all the photos of the Christmas holiday.

We first spent a couple of weeks with Esther's parents and brother, Justin. it was great hanging out and having some wonderful meals during the Christmas week. We played guestures, operation, texas hold 'em and watched some movies.

After Christmas we flew out to Virginia Beach to spend time with Sherman's family. We had a fun time jamming out on Rockband, walking the beach and eating some fantastic Korean meals.

Merry Christmas with the Hsias

2009-01-12T15:41:00.004-06:00

Mason and Ryan in their Sunday's best in front of the Christmas tree.

Mason trying on the bow. he is sure a present to us.

Mason got a Curious George that does somersaults.

Mason cuddling here with po po.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-30T21:47:00.003-06:00

No work for Sherman!

Thanksgiving day was very relaxed and chill.

Esther's mom is in town so we had some holiday cheer with family.

The boys colored, watched some movies and danced.

We had forgotten to defrost the meat enough hours so that's why we needed to go out.

For dinner we ended up going to Old Country Buffet for some holiday grub.

It was a great time had by all!

Blue Tongues

2008-11-30T21:34:00.003-06:00

Ryan and Mason were good little boys so they got lollipops.

They loved the blue color their tongues turned.

Here they are showing off the look.

Steaks vs. dogs

2008-11-14T01:07:00.002-06:00

Each year the Managing Partner, Tom Goris, holds a contest based on the number of applications and/or sales volume for the month of October. It is a way to motivate us for the 4th quarter. the winners get steak while the others have a hot dog. Unfortunately, this year i had to settle for a hot dog. Thank goodness the dogs are delicious.

The event is held at Tom's house each year. it is a great time to relax - shoot some pool, chat and watch some Thursday night football.

There was a gym downstairs so while i was eating a ton i snuck in some bench and dumb bells. That's why in on of the photos i am showing off the guns...eveyone didn't know they'd be getting a free ticket to the gun show that night!

Thanks Tom for the fun memories and great food!

Suiting up!

2008-11-11T00:33:00.003-06:00

Running shoes? ...check.

shorts? ...check.
Beanie? ...check.
winter gloves? ...check.
wind, rain proof outfit? ...check.
ready to run in 32 degree weather? ...Maybe.
Staying in shape in Wisconsin can require a little more clothing than most states, especially from November to June. Most articles say that after suiting up in the right clothing you have to just go out and run. So that's what i did today. It was cold at first, but 2.5 miles later i was all warmed up.

GQ

2008-11-09T20:50:00.002-06:00

With a high of 31 degrees it was a cold day to go to church. The boys were looking too cute to not post these photos immediately. They are both getting comfortable with the camera and saying "cheese." when i was transferring these photos from the camera to the laptop Mason was playing the camera and saying, "cheese" to himself.

Uncle Justin, Gong gong and Po po - March 2008

2008-11-09T20:17:00.003-06:00

Finally i am catching up with old photos. These are from the last time Esther's family came out here to visit with us. We celebrated Mason's 1st birthday, Gong gong's birthday too and Sherman passing his investment exam.

Summer Pics

2008-11-09T19:44:00.004-06:00

Here are the final photos of us with the Changs, our annual visit to the Milwaukee Zoo hosted by Northwestern Mutual and Ryan's first letter from Daniel.

2 peas of the same pod

2008-11-09T19:34:00.001-06:00

Winters a comin'!

These boys are sporting their new winter hats.

What cute dudes!

Hanging out at the playground

2008-11-09T18:54:00.002-06:00

Ryan is totally GQ here. Mason is happy to be on the swing.

This was on Thursday, November 6th after Ryan had school.

This is probably the last day of nice weather before the winter sets in.

New shoes

2008-11-09T00:48:00.002-06:00

Ryan above is throwing a temper tantrum b/c he didn't want to take off his crocs.

He loves those blue shoes.
Mason on the other hand, was in good spirits
and was using the mirror to check out his new kicks.

Ryan has some big feet.

While waiting our turn Ryan is playing with the food.

He is quite resourceful if you look closely.

Since the knife was gone he used the watermelon wedge to cut the bread.

Bright kid.

the double stroller

2008-11-09T00:41:00.003-06:00

The boys here are just making funny faces for the camera. i think Ryan is eating a starbust here.

New Office

2008-11-09T00:33:00.003-06:00

In the end of August Sherman's office moved west - larger location, lower rent and updated digs. Here are photos of his office - he says he is trying to keep it uncluttered from all his files and paperwork. Also you will notice the really cool signage they have on the side of the building, which you can see from the highway when you drive by.

My supportive wife

2008-11-07T01:52:00.002-06:00

I must say that i have the most supportive wife in the world. These last few weeks have been crazy busy! I worked all day last Saturday (8:30am - 4:00pm) and then went off to a Priesthood meeting - getting home after 6:30pm. Then this week i got home Monday at 7pm, Tuesday at 11:30pm, Wednesday at 10:30pm (i told her i'd be home at 8:30pm when i left the house) and today at 10:30pm. Then i had to jump on the computer to do some more work until about 2am.

It is amazing to me that she doesn't question me. She believes in me and what we are trying to build in a career. I know there is no way i could do this without her. Yes, i go out and slaughter those pigs to make bacon, but i know at home things are under control. Esther - thanks for your constant love, encouragement and support while we build a lifestyle for ourselves and the future.

Winter is coming

2008-11-04T03:38:00.003-06:00

It is that time of year...pulling out the winter clothing. The other day it dropped to the 30s. Hwoever, today it was 70 degrees so that was weird for us.

Nonetheless, winter is just around the corner so we have to be ready. Thanks to my mother and mother-in-law these boys will be stylish despite the numerous layers they will be sporting. My mom had sent out some winter coats and clothes for the boys, so Ryan decided to try on his new winter hat. Ryan is a natural model. I think that is Blue Magnum.

Brothers

2008-11-04T03:32:00.002-06:00

Ryan and Mason are unlike many siblings I've seen out there. Ryan absolutely adorns Mason and vice versa. If Mason ever gets talked to by "daddy", daddy will then be reprimanded by Ryan. Mason will usually share any toy with Ryan with little fuss. They will hug each other and chase each other constantly. I always had an inner feeling that these two boys were close and that they'd be best friends for life. Here is a great example of them just hanging out together - Mason happy to be with his older brother.

The Simpsons

2008-11-04T03:24:00.002-06:00

The Simpson have 2 more fans. Ryan and Mason really enjoy watching the Simpsons (the movie or TV show). Ryan will repeat parts of the movie even at the beginning with Ralph copying the 20th Century Fox music. Then when it gets heated Mason and Ryan will scream..."sssshhhh" are my constant remarks.

Note that the dates on these photos are incorrect - they were taken on 11/2/08. Mason is working on his "last bite" which for some reason takes as long as the previous 3 bites.

Ryan loves posing for the camera and then seeing his finished product on the tiny screen. These guys are just too funny.

Mason - the man

2008-11-04T03:12:00.002-06:00

Esther and I both thought Mason was going to be all laid back and chill...

However, we were wrong. Maybe Ryan is rubbing off on our little gentle giant.

Mason loves to scream now...our poor neighbors.

He also loves to stomp his feet on the ground constantly.

he also sports the Wisconsin beer gut - but his is generated from constant eating.

yeah. he got that from Sherman.

Also, I think the boys think (or know) that they are funny.

What is really interesting is that he is a slow mover.

i was asking the boys to pick up their room and was prompting Mason with,

"Chop, chop. Let's clean up."

Of course Ryan (who eventually cleans the room despite Mason pulling toys out and distracting Ryan) mimicks me and says, "Mason, chop, chop."

As Mason gets older his personality is really beginning to shine and it is hilarious.

i actually think he tries to be funny...with his slow movements and high pitched screaming.

Poor Esther, she probably thought she only signed up for one crazy boy and now she added 2 more.

Being Silly

2008-10-27T00:16:00.003-05:00

Ryan decided to wear my socks and pose for the camera. Mason loves playing with "bo bo" - cantonese for balls.

Trunk or Treat

2008-10-27T00:13:00.004-05:00

On Saturday, Oct. 25th, our church held their annual Trunk or Treat - everyone decorates their trunks so the kids can trick or treat in the church parking lot. Ryan was excited to be Bumblebee and Mason was Robin. Esther and I sported 1920's costumes.

With Esther wearing the wig Mason would not go to Esther the whole night. He was actually not too thrilled about the costumes.

185!

2008-10-26T23:51:00.003-05:00

In the last 4 mos. Sherman began to exercise and actually reduce the amount of food he was eating. He runs 3-4 miles three times a week, plays b-ball evey Thursday night and does 120 push-ups and 150 sit-ups evey day (except Sundays). This has translated to losing 20 lbs since July 2008. His goal is to have his 6 pack by June 2009 - before the 2nd Dawg Pound Reunion.

100,000 miles

2008-10-20T10:10:00.002-05:00

Sherman's Elantra hit over 100,000 miles a couple of weeks ago.

I was driving back from a networking event from Milwaukee and decided to record the history in the making. sadly, the digital counting is not as cool as the old pin wheels slowing turning to 0.

Black Tie Event

2008-10-20T10:07:00.002-05:00

Every year Sherman's work has an Annual Recognition dinner - a black tie event.
It is a great time to praise the accomplishmnents of each rep in his regional office.

The dinner is delicious and held at the Milwaukee Country Club.

Jim's Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-20T00:15:00.002-05:00

This last Saturday, October 18th, a friend at Sherman's work, Michael, has a son, Davis, who just turned 2.

He invited the whole family for Davis' birthday party at Jim's Pumpkin Patch. It was a beautiful day - perfect fall weather. Michael had invited some other families to Davis' party too. Jim's pumkin patch had a hayride, a pumpkin patch, some photo setups and picnic tables to have lunch. It was a blast!

Pumpkin Patch Family Photo

2008-10-20T00:10:00.003-05:00

When you have a digital camera you can just take as many pictures as possible.

With these two boys it is difficult to get them both to look at the camera at the same time.

Hayride to the pumpkin patch

2008-10-20T00:06:00.003-05:00

We all piled into the wagon that was being pulled by a tractor for our hayride to the pumpkin patch.
At first Ryan and Mason were a little intimidated by the loud tractor, but afterwards became comfortable enough to look around at the corn fields.

Picking out the perfect pumpkin

2008-10-19T23:57:00.002-05:00

We walked around the pumpkin patch searching for the perfect pumpkins.

Ryan and Mason enjoyed walking around until Ryan got dirt in his crochs. Then he need Sherman to wipe his foot off. Also both he and Mason would enjoy looking at the pumpkins but didn't like holding them b/c there was dirt all over the pumpkins so they were "dirty".

Lunch Time!

2008-10-19T23:53:00.002-05:00

After the hayride and pumpkin patch it was time for lunch.
It was delicious! Croussant sandwiches, chips, apples and juice boxes for the boys.

Ryan was digging right into his lunch.
Slow down there champ.

Halloween cut-outs

2008-10-19T23:49:00.003-05:00

Ryan and Sherman decided to have some fun with the wooden cut-outs.

Ryan just checking stuff out. I think it is time for him to go home.

Run, Forest! Run!

2008-10-19T23:46:00.001-05:00

After 3.5 years of little exercise Sherman decided it was time to get back in shape. He had hit 205 lbs on the scale and decided enough was enough!It was time to get into shape and lose weight.

He first started by volunteering at every single move-out and move-in going in their ward (which turned out to be over 7). Then he started to run/walk with Ryan and Mason. Since August he is now running every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 4 miles each day. He also adds in doing 100 push-ups and 100 sit-ups every day.2 mos later he is now down to 190 lbs with a goal to have a six-pack by June 2009!

Snow, Snow and more snow

2008-02-13T08:25:00.002-06:00

Last week the whole town was buzzing with talk about the snow advisory from the national weather department. They issued a snow advisory stating that we would get around 1-2 inches per hour for about 18 hours starting Tuesday night. Now we have heard that before, and actually 2 years ago we cancelled church because of the warnings, but the next day didn't produce as much snow as was predicted. However, on Feb 6th was i proven wrong by good ole mother nature. she decided to bring on the snow - about 18 inches that day where we live. then about 5 days later she threw it down on us AGAIN (this time only about 3-4 inches).

My friends are out of town, so i decided to stop by and see how their car was doing with all the snow and there is a ton of snow there. i don't know if the pics do it justice, but the top photo has a shovel resting against the van and on the back of the window that is my 18" snow remover - i'd say there is over 20" just on their car.

Morale of the story: Mother Nature can still throw down a good storm despite global warming. you go girl!

More activities at the museum

2008-02-03T21:15:00.001-06:00

Ryan talking on the phone with Esther on the other line at the museum.
Ryan pretending to be a doctor.
Ryan fixing the car.
Ryan playing in the kitchen.

Having a good time at the museum

2008-02-03T20:33:00.000-06:00

Here is a some lights and blocks to show the children shadows.
Ryan checking out Curious George's lockers.
Mason is happy to see the statue of George.
Ryan is playing with some colored, plastic balls.

He would place them in tubes to illustrate the digestive system.

Out at the Museum

2008-02-03T20:23:00.000-06:00

Our friends lent us their pass to the museum while they were out of town.

The Betty Brin museum was having a special section about Curious George.

It was a lot fo fun for Ryan to interact with all the different areas.

He is above moving around plastic pieces to make shadows on the wall.

Hiding in the suitcase

2008-02-03T20:17:00.001-06:00

After Sherman came home from traveling out of town,

Ryan wanted to see if next time he could come along.

The little pink chair he placed in front of the suitcase was to block Mason.

Father and sons

2008-02-03T20:07:00.000-06:00

Sherman was totally enjoying spending time with his boys during Christmas vacation.

It was a great chance for him to hold them and give them attention.

"PRESENTS!"

2008-02-03T19:58:00.001-06:00

Christmas morning Ryan was totally excited to open up "Presents."

To his delight he was able to open up his presents and Mason's.

What is fun about children opening gifts is that they cannot fake disappointment.

When Ryan opened boxes with clothes in them you could tell he was not too excited to see that.

He facial expressions were "This isn't a toy."

Standing on one hand

2008-02-03T19:49:00.000-06:00

Uncle Hoshen was able to balance Mason on one hand.

Mason has pretty good balance and should be walking in the next few months,

b/c he is pulling himself up any moment possible.

Mason sporting a bandana

2008-02-03T19:46:00.000-06:00

Uncle Justin was wearing a bandana and decided to see what Mason looked like.

He looked pretty good sporting the "doo rag."

Sherman relaxing

2008-02-03T19:40:00.000-06:00

Sherman hanging out with Hinson during Christmas vacation in Cali.

Mason and Gogong

2008-02-03T19:21:00.000-06:00

Since Mason was in a photo mood Gogong took advantage

by taking pics with Mason.

Mason with Popo

2008-02-03T19:18:00.000-06:00

Popo and Mason are here posing for some photos.

This was while Esther and Sherman were out visiting friends.

Mason with Bobo the dog

2008-02-03T19:12:00.001-06:00

Mason wasn't scared of the dogs at all.

He actually to a liking to them pretty instantly.

The dogs on the other had needed to warm up to Ryan and Mason.

Mason posing

2008-02-03T19:09:00.000-06:00

Mason is really enjoying his indepedence b/c he can crawl.

He is still chubby which is great!
Doesn't it look like he wants to pose for the camera?

Uncle Justin

2008-02-03T17:13:00.000-06:00

Uncle Justin watched Mason while Esther and I were able to go out one night.

Look how comfortable Mason is with his Uncle.

Granddad and Grandsons

2008-02-03T17:08:00.001-06:00

Gogong loves holding his grandsons.

And Ryan and Mason love Gogong too!

Piggy back rides

2008-02-03T16:47:00.000-06:00

Uncle Hoshen lifting up Mason for a fun ride.

Ryan wanted up too, so Gogong hoisted him up on his shoulders.

Ryan loves to show Mason he loves him by giving him kisses.

And Ryan shows some more love.

Round 2 - Esther vs. Mommy

2008-02-03T16:37:00.000-06:00

Now, it is Esther's turn to be on the outside and keep Mommy's hand from busting loose.

Esther's the winner!

Who's the strongest?

2008-02-03T16:28:00.000-06:00

So, here is a very interesting game.

The two stand across from one another while one holds the wrist of their opponent.

The point of the person holding the others' wrists is to not allow the other to open up their arms.

So, Esther's mom is trying to stop Esther from busting open her arms.

Esther won.

Esther and Justin

2008-02-03T16:26:00.000-06:00

Esther and Justin are playing games.

Aunty Nora

2008-02-03T16:23:00.001-06:00

Mason being spoiled by his lovely Aunty Nora.

What a handsome little guy.

Father and son

2008-02-03T16:21:00.000-06:00

Ryan and Sherman waiving to others.

Notice Sherman is holding his cell phone

(either for the kids to play with or him).

Father and daughter

2008-02-03T16:18:00.001-06:00

Esther wife her dad.

Mason and Uncle Justin

2008-02-03T00:43:00.000-06:00

Mason is trying to grab a cookie from his Uncle Justin.

These two instantly bonded and Mason was spoiled the whole time!

Ho, Ho, Ho!

2008-02-03T00:33:00.001-06:00

Ryan sitting with Santa. He wasn't too keen on the idea of being with a stranger.

Mason, on the other hand, was happy to be held.

Ryan and Mason being held by Popo and Gogong.

This is the whole crew in California (back row from the left): Hinson, Justin, Sherman, Esther, Santa, Popo holding Mason, Nora, Hoshen, Carissa, Mamon and Gogong holding Ryan in the front.

Mason is crawling

2007-12-31T19:16:00.000-06:00

Finally at 9 months our little Mason is beginning to crawl all around.

Christmas in LA

2007-12-31T19:10:00.000-06:00

Ryan, Esther and Uncle Justin.
Aunt Nora, Uncle Hoshen, Mason and his Popo.

Ryan having some noodles.

Dawg Pound Reunion

2007-07-08T20:59:00.001-05:00

Sherman was able to meet up with his Dawg Pound in a weekend in June.
They were able to stay at the Lamberts - Thanks a ton to their hospitality!
These are Sherman's freshmen friends since 1997 at BYU.

Tired little ry-guy

2007-07-08T20:48:00.001-05:00

Ryann sporting his wind breaker

2007-07-08T20:14:00.000-05:00

Doesn't he look so good?

The boys at the Zoo

2007-07-07T23:31:00.001-05:00

On a nice Saturday in June Ryan and Mason met up with their friends, Ethan, Daniel and Evelyn at the Milwaukee Zoo. Mason was a little tired and ended up sleeping the majority of the time. Ryan had a great time talking on a bench with Daniel.

Silly Ryan

2007-07-07T23:26:00.001-05:00

Ryan loves pointing at his nose, ears, hair and eyes. Here he is entertaining us while we were out to eat with Esther's parents.

Mason at 2.5 months

2007-07-07T23:22:00.000-05:00

Mason is such a happy baby. He is growing and loves to smile. He can even sleep through Ryan's screaming.

Ryan dominating in nursery

2007-07-07T23:16:00.001-05:00

Ryan loves being the nursery.

He is seen here with Daniel and Ethan.

Later...Daniel got himself stuck in the oven.

Sherman with his boys

2007-03-10T09:14:00.000-06:00

Ryan sure is taking a liking to his baby brother, Mason. He loves to hold him and give him kisses and hugs. It is a joy to Sherman that his little guys get along well right from the beginning.

Popo with her grandsons

2007-03-10T09:09:00.000-06:00

Ryan and Mason are at home in Popo's arms. She still has the right touch.

Mason Christopher On

2007-03-08T22:31:00.000-06:00

On March 7th, 2007 at 6 a.m. Esther and I entered Waukesah Memorial Hospital because she was having regular contractions every 5 minutes.

Then at 11:42 a.m. after pusing for only 10 minutes (this was a total different than 5 hours with Ryan) Mason was born. As you can see he is cute and handsome! He was 7 lbs. 7 oz, 19.8 inches long and all healthy.

As you can see Esther was happy after the "easier" delivery.

Esther and Mason will be discharged from the hospital tomorrow.

First snow of the year

2006-12-29T23:01:00.000-06:00

It was a blizzard in some areas of Milwaukee.
We received about 10 inches from 3am to 3pm.
This is the first snow Ryan actually has come in contact with.
When we let him touched the foreign white stuff
he did so with some apprehension.
"Hey, this stuff is cold!" seemed to be his expression.
However, after a little bit of time he was happy in the winter wonderland.

"The Hulk gots nothing on me!"

2006-12-29T22:57:00.000-06:00

At my office we have a weekly contest for activity,
and whomever win receive the "activity animal" and a gas card.
After winning one week I brought Ryan to my office,
and he starting taking down the hulk.
It was hilarious!
Ryan is a lean, fighting machine!

Pajama party!

2006-12-29T22:54:00.000-06:00

Ethan and Daniel came over one night in November so their parents
could have a little date night. The dudes, all dressed in PJs, had a fun time
running around and for Ethan, being a robot.
True friends love you no matter what you wear.

Thanksgiving with friends

2006-12-29T22:51:00.000-06:00

This year Esther, Ryan and I spent our Thanksgiving holiday
with the Malnars and Changs. Esther and I (I didn't really do anything)
were in charge of desert while the Changs had the turkey and the Malnars
prepared all the fixings. It was a delicious meal!

After the feast we broke down Asian-style and sang some karaoke.
Ben and I had the top score of 97%!

and it's going to be a...BOY!

2006-12-29T22:49:00.000-06:00

Esther is due March 11th with our second child,
and we found out we are having another son.
It will be great for Ryan to pal around with another dude,
but it does out rank Esther 3 to 1.

YeYe comes to visit

2006-12-29T22:44:00.000-06:00

YeYe was in Chicago on business
and was able to step away from his schedule
to spend a couple of hours with us on Halloween.

Watching movies Ryan-style

2006-12-29T22:36:00.000-06:00

After a tough day of driving mommy crazy, eating, sleeping and playing with cars Ryan likes to unwind in front of his portable DVD player and watch some cartoons on his Elmo couch. As you can tell he likes to read the DVD jacket while watching the video.

Happy Halloween!

2006-12-29T22:26:00.000-06:00

"Holy Bat-costumes, Batman!" At the church "Trunk or Treat" we decided to stay themed - Bat-heroes for our family this year. Obviously I needed some padding to create muscles for me.

Ryan goes in for the jam!

2006-12-29T22:23:00.000-06:00

Ryan enjoys playing a little basketball. He already has his inside game down, so we'll be drilling him on his outside shot.

He is growing so tall so quickly.

2006-09-02T21:44:00.000-05:00

I really enjoyed spending time with my brother. It had been over a year since I had seen him. As you can see we spent most of the time talking about really important and serious issues. It was fun having Ryan bond with him too.

1st Driving Experience

2006-09-02T21:38:00.000-05:00

Ryan driving the rental. Whenever he sees this picture he gets so excited.

2006-09-02T21:29:00.000-05:00

Ryan having fun with po po and kau fu zai (uncle Justin).

Back to the homeland!

2006-09-02T20:48:00.000-05:00

We got to visit Toronto this summer! My grandmother was having a banquet celebrating her 80th birthday. It was really nice seeing all the relatives again, it's been so long. It was fun having all the little ones meet each other. Ryan had a blast. He just ran along with the kids laughing and screaming trying to keep up. One of the most memorable moments was I was playing hide and seek with all the kids (along with Ryan). Ryan had sorta got the gist of the game. When we'd hid he understood that he had to squat or sit down with the rest of us and try to keep quiet. But every so often he'd get too excited and scream out. It was hilarious to watch them try to communicate with him.
Seeing that we were in Toronto, we took advantage of the situation and had all the Chinese food we could get our hands on. Out of all the places I've visited, outside of Hong Kong/China, Toronto has the best Chinese food! They also have the world's best "Bo Lo Ye See Bao" It was so tough to remember not to over eat, espeically at all the 12 course chinese banquets. Ryan and Sherman ate so much food, I was sure they'd get sick! I think we all gained a little weight on this trip.
Seeing as Toronto is filled with asians (especially the area I grew up in), everyone always thought that Ryan was my brother! We had to explain all the time that real situation and they'd look at us stunned. So eventually we just gave up and went along with it. It wasn't until we met up with our childhood friends that I realized that I was a young parent. It was kinda weird, seeing them made me feel like a kid again, but then you get pulled back into reality when your kid comes to you. I guess they thought it was kinda strange to b/c I was referred to as "Mother Esther" Nonetheless, I loved seeing everyone and catching up with them again.

Our Annual Spring Cleaning

2006-06-07T23:08:00.000-05:00

We're moving again! It is our 3th move since our marriage 3 years ago. I have almost unpacked everything, just one more box to go! Sherman absolutely hates it. But of course he does the physical part. He swears that he'll hire a moving company next time. But we only moved a block away.
Actually I don't mind it too much, I sort of enjoy it. I don't like the packing b/c there's the whole move in front of me, but we do get rid of junk...so in a way it is like spring cleaning. I also like the unpacking, I get to decided where everything goes and organize everything. There are so many possibilities but one ideal decision for aesthetic and practical purposes. And we're finally in a second floor apartment so no more bugs (hopefully) and I feel that it is a lot safer too.
Ryan's already gotten used to the new place and enjoys exploring and searching for his toys. So all in all a good experience.

1 year old

2006-06-07T22:30:00.000-05:00

Happy 1st Birthday! I think Sherman and I were more excited about it then Ryan, because we decided to take him to Chuck E. Cheese. It's been so long since either one of us been there...it was so much fun (pathetic huh?) I just love the racing games, basketball competition and skeeball. We even won a prize!

Ryan seemed a little overwhelmed at first, but quickly adapted and joined in on the fun. He didn't like sitting on the fake cars and trains very much but loved skeeball and basketball. He also go his first taste of Cotton Candy. We had wrestle with him just to get him to eat it because he didn't think it look or felt like food. In the end he took a couple of bits then made up his mind that it wasn't food. I just love watching his personality grow...and boy does he have one!
We finished the night with a nice big slice of ice cream cake...which he enjoyed immensely and with presents!

2006-06-07T22:07:00.000-05:00

Weekly trips to the park. I try to take him the the park at least once a week for a couple of reasons: 1. He's kinda a scardy cat, just like me and with repetition gets braver 2. So he can learn to associate with other children, not that he's shy(just like his dad) 3. So he can get a little sun on his fair skin. 4. To acclimate him to wind, as you can see from his face...not a big fan.
He loves sitting in the swing, playing in the sand and running around. We're currently working on jungle gyms. Sometimes we'll take our lunches there and meet our friends for a picnic.

2006-03-13T17:48:00.000-06:00

Our new purchase, a new laptop for me! I am a loyal Sony Vaio costumer, they're pretty, light and has all the features you need. There was a nice sale going and one of our friends had shown and interest on purchasing my old one, so we upgraded. It's one of the new wide screen kinds...don't know how I feel about them yet, there weren't very many of the regular screens around anymore. But it is a lot faster than my old one so yupee!

The weather was really nice this week, sunny and a little warmer and so a bunch of us moms took our kids to the zoo. The first exhibition I took Ryan to was the big cats. He really liked the hyenas (they are a lot bigger than I imagined, and a lot prettier). But when it came to the lions, he had to think about it. He eventually warmed up to them and was having a grand time. There were a lot of geese and peacocks walking around and Ryan couldn't take his eyes off them. They came right up to us and were actually eating the crackers he and Daniel had dropped. Unfortunately I forgot my camera (I always do), so no pics, maybe next time.

First Communal Bath

2006-03-13T17:03:00.000-06:00

Update: Our family's life has recently been crossing the Chang's family life a lot. If it isn't at Church (Sherm & James in Young Men, Winnie & I at Achievement nights), then it is for babysitting or weekends together.

Our most recent escapade -- a weekend in Chicago. We had a long overdue appointment with the temple. So we decided to make a weekend out of it. James found a 2 for 1 deal for hotel and so we got adjacent rooms with and ajoining door and played Settlers of Catan 'till the wee hours of the night. Ryan loved having other kids to play with. Ethan is his new role model! He just follows wherever he goes. Ryan gets so excited whenever he sees him. Ryan also enjoys playing with Daniel - they get mischievous every time. The hotel had a pool and so Ryan had a lot of his 1st that weekend. His first sleepover, his first Korean meal, his first sugar (in the shape of a brownie), his first swim and his first communal bath. As you can see, he enjoyed the company.

It's always nice to have friends where you don't have to make and excuse to hang out or for last minute babysitting. Lucky for us, there are several families that had their first baby within. It turns out one of such couples, Jami, was in the same Y group as me at BYU. How small the world is indeed.

Uh-oh!

2006-01-03T11:20:00.000-06:00

Ryan's face just lit up when he realized he poured out food. He just kept on stuffing cheerios in his mouth, not stopping to chew or to swallow. He never took his eyes off the food. We couldn't stop laughing! In the end, we had to help take out some of the cheerios in his mouth. Now, when he sees the box, he goes crazy.

Passing on the torch...

2006-01-02T23:51:00.000-06:00

He just couldn't get enough of the mahjong tiles. He'd grab one and then scream with delight, then exchange it for another and scream again. Look at the concentration...Looks like we'll have another mahjong lover!

Ryan had so much fun in Cali with his po po and gong gong, cousins, aunts and uncles. He also had so much room to crawl, it was heaven for him. And of course he was spoiled beyond belief. The weather was so beautiful! I have finally convinced Sherman to move there one day. I think we must have all gained weight from all the eating...especially Ryan. People kept on slipping him food from the table and so he was pretty much eating all day long. He now knows what real food tastes like and so has shown a significant decrease of interest in baby food. He just begs for our food when he sees us eating.

Nap time

2006-01-02T23:39:00.000-06:00

My uncle just has a special touch. He can put Ryan to sleep with such ease it's almost magical. It doesn't matter whether he's standing or sitting, all he has to do is hold him. Apparently he used to be able to do the same with me! My uncle and my dad are Ryan's favorite. Even if someone is already holding him, if he sees either of them he'll make a fake cry and stretch his arms to them. Ryan was so spoiled, he was always either carried or center of attention. He just loved having so many people around. Even now, when he wakes up from a nap, after he cuddles for a while, he'll crawl around home, looking in rooms and behind doors for them.