Today

Christmas Pictures

Merry Christmas!

This past year held many blessings for us. We have seen Braiden grow and develop from a baby to a toddler - he has been such a joy! The year also held many goodbyes and happy homecomings, as Michael traveled around the globe. The latest homecoming was the day before Thanksgiving, when he returned home from a 6-month deployment to the Philippines. Braiden has been a world traveler as well, with visits to New England, Colorado, Finland, and our family road trip from New Hampshire to Seattle and back home to San Diego. The latest little miracle is snug in my arms at the moment. We welcomed Noah Maximus on December 3rd and have loved every minute of being a family of four. What a full and exciting year it has been; we are so thankful for everything the Lord has provided our family with. 

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Michael, Saina, Braiden & Noah

The Boys

Some pictures from yesterday... Mommy (and the boys too) survived her first outing alone. We went in for Noah's 2 week check-up and learned that he really does have a ferocious appetite. The 2-week goal for babies is to regain their birth weight. Noah, at birth, was 8lbs 3oz... and yesterday weighed in at 8lbs 15oz! Wow! He was 21 inches long. No wonder some of those newborn clothes are getting tight.

Braiden test driving Noah's bouncy seat. Safety check complete!

A tight grip on mommy's finger.


This scene repeats itself throughout the day. Braiden is so sweet with Noah!

Happy Anniversary...

... to us! It's been an amazing two years! It has included two kids, two 6-month deployments, two houses. We can't wait to see what's in store for us for the coming year!

Squeaky Shoes

Braiden got a pair of squeaky shoes from Aunt Sennu for his birthday (the photo above was taken in Colorado in October). Cousin Annabel has a matching pair! Well, the shoes are still a little bit big on Braiden, but today we took them out and Braiden had a blast dancing and jumping around the house. And in case you are wondering, yes, the squeakers are removable. :)
Annabel is going to visit us next month, and we hope she'll bring her squeaky shoes with her for... PARTY TIME!

Braiden at the Park

From This Morning

Noah in the process of waking up.


Finally some pictures of Braiden's new room... He absolutely loves it. And we love not having toys all over the house!


Both Daddy and Braiden got haircuts yesterday! After our last disastrous attempt right before Thanksgiving, this time we were armed with M&Ms and a lollipop. Shameless bribing worked; we think Braiden looks quite dashing.

Life with a toddler: ornaments migrate north.

It's true: We are a family of four!

Brotherly Love

Here's a video of Braiden saying "Goodnight" to Noah. He has been such an excellent big brother! Today he tried to offer Noah one of his binkies - and if you know Braiden at all, you know those are his prized possessions!

Playground Pictures and Noah's First Bath

Marsha, as you can see, this towel has been in daily use! When are you opening for business?? We are going to be your first customers! Noah is 6 days old in these pictures, and below is a picture of Braiden's first bath at home, at 5 days old.