Happy New Years!!!!

To all Boogielicious fans out there: Have a safe and kick *ss New Years countdown. Looking forward to a life changing 2011!

Solid As A rock

Boogie taking solids for the first time; milk and banana mixture. Soon solids turn you know what into rocks! This is a good thing because CJ always looks at me when I'm eating and looks like she wants a bite. I'm gonna love seeing how everything is so new to her taste buds.

Gucci Kids

Forgot to post this pic a couple of months back but it is of Mom and Calleigh at the opening of Gucci Kids in the Gucci store of the Landmark Building in HK. Look at Calleigh's snooty expression. She got one of those gold Gucci bear balloons that got lost in the sky while getting into the taxi.

Face Plant

Here is a great video showing Calleigh doing a face plant, yet she doesn't cry because she is such a champ. She just looks up and wonders what the heck happened.

Sucking Down 3oz Snack

Calleigh's been trying to hold her bottle more and more these days which is good because I can be more hands free to do other things while she is eating. I've got these Dr. B 8 oz bottle that are much too heavy for her and the Avent bottles are too wide so I'll stick to the cheapo Gerber bottles. She's really trying to grab for things and putting them in her mouth. Some say it is the start of her teething.

Sweet Pea

Uncle Minh got CJ an outfit that is fitting to what Mom likes to call her "Sweet Pea". Dad calls her "Sweat Pea" because she always runs hot and sweats a lot. Thanks Minh! CJ is definitely in need of some new clothes. We just recently squeezed her into a 3 month sized sleeper and I think her toes are poking through the cotton! Maybe we should cut the feet so her toes can peep through and save some money.

BTW, I titled this blog "Sweat Pea" because that I what I called her once and it is fitting because she seems to sweat a lot.

All Bundled

First time with Boogie in Florence and with the weather at 1-5 degrees C, CJ had to be bundled up nicely. Everyone else's baby was in some sort of sleeping bag that only revealed their face. What a wonderful time to be in Florence, snowing in December, giving a nice feel to the holidays. (It normally doesn't snow in Florence).

What you looking at Fool?!

At home, with her first Disney purchase, the Pooh Bear. It resembles CJ with the big head, beady eyes, and full cheeks. She looked grateful, but then her look to me was like "Thanks Dad, but what's this Fool looking at me for?"

Flashpoint

The fireworks display at Disney was impressive for a smaller sized park. Calleigh enjoyed the light show except the finale that flashed her eyes (see vid).

It's A Small World

CJ's first time to DisneyLand. HK has a very nice, manageable park for kids. They have enough rides to keep any kid busy. The only ride CJ went on was Small World and we almost missed the chance to get on as the park was closing. Fortunately, with enough begging, the host let us through. View the posted clip from within the ride.

CJTV

Here is a quick vid with CJ on her new bebePOD. She's been really captivated with the Disney Channel. I was able to grab her attention away for a quick smile but then she was back to her TV program.

The Pacific

Boogie had her first trip to the Pacific, visiting Guam and Saipan and flying on a prop plane. Wanted to take her swimming but I didn't have my swimsuit. She seemed to enjoy the hot weather but was very thirsty and bothered when it got too hot.

What You Said?

CJ is here trying to communicate something. Video is a bit dark as it was her sleepy time. Can't wait until she can deliberately muster up a word we can understand. Although we have heard her say something that sounded like "Hi" three times in a row.

Karate Kid

Per the request of my Nephew Joshua Lee, I am posting a video I created earlier this month which was inspired by the movie Karate Kid (Jaden Smith and Jackie Chang).

Flip!....I'm Stuck....

The day has come where leaving CJ without eyes on her becomes more concerning as she crosses the line in baby boot camp. Flipping from back to front seems quite easy for her as she just figured out how to do it and did it 6 times today. The challenge: how to get back on her backside. This short clip shows the complete flip and an accidental attempt to flip back yet to get caught on her activity gym.

New Digs in HK

Sitting on a couch overlooking Kowloon Park. Easy access to the mall, Kowloon Star Ferry, and Ocean Terminal which has ToysRUS, DKNY Kids, Chloe Kids, RL Kids, etc.

CJ loves being in the mall. It seems to be very calming and cool for her.

Baby Bajorning It

The Baby Bjorn seems to work well except for the fact my Baby's hands and feet turn a bit blue. Not sure if I'm using this thing right but why is her circulation being cut off and from where. I guess I'll have to keep trying different settings. It is advised not to put her forward until she has full command of her neck. I decided to jump the program and put a small blanket behind her head to keep it steady. It is obvious she loves the new view of the world hanging off my chest.

Happy Hallow

First Halloween spent in HK. Boogie seemed to like her Silly Spider Costume and her Super Heroes Cape. Not much tricks for treats but there were kids out at malls walking in groups. The happening spot on Halloween is Lan Kwai Fong, so we heard. People get dressed up and hang out at the bars. Next year, we should have a walking baby so it may be a better time to try the Baby Gaga outfit I wanted to create.

The CJ Laugh

Okay, here is the premier of the first video footage of CJ laughing. Her voice is getting more distinct and it's pretty cool.

Shoe Shopping

Yes. This pic is posed but it just looked pretty funny. It will be a loooong while before she buys shoes like this. Hoochie shoes mama!

Visiting the OC

Finally getting back to this blog to talk about Calleigh's first flight to Orange County. It was a short flight and she experienced her first ride in a mini-van. Yes, a mini-van. She also got to visit her new friend Kamryn, hang out at a oceanfront restaurant, and hangout at Newport Beach food and wine event. It was a lot of stuff to carry on the plane but it's temporary. When she gets older, there will be less stuff to bring. The plus was that she got to cut to the front of the security line. Plus, she was also able to meet her Uncle Apollo.

Go Giants!!!!

We took Calleigh to her first Giants game against the Brewers. A Grand Slam and two other home runs, it was a good day. Chowed down on a beef tri-tip sandwich, ballpark nachos, and the best tasting cold lemonade I've ever had.

Mom insisted on Club Level seats and boy was it worth it for the short line at guest services and vendors. Plus, check out mom being a good sport nursing Calleigh during the game.

I wanted to paint her face black and orange but I thought it would be bad for her skin. Maybe when she is older.

Going into the Divisional Playoffs, I think I'll watch the game from the comforts of the couch. It's going to be mad out there.

I'm Eeeeeevil...

"Don't mess with me when I'm sleeping."

My First Pair of Gucci Shoes

What a wonderful gift that Mom can appreciate. Dad thinks it's still in line to work with an urban wear outfit for Boogie so he is happy too! Throw on a jumpsuit, flat tip cap and she's ready to go..

It's going to be a while before she can fit the kickers. The sole is leather, are these shoes made for walking? Hope CJ can get her legs in gear before 12 months.

Forget My Crib...Cal King is My Style

For parents looking at this pic, no we do not leave Boogie unattended in such soft and luxurious conditions. Her crib is firm and colorful but it doesn't beat our Cal King. Getting Calleigh to sleep can be a challenge at times, but tonight, I tucked her into our bed and it worked like a charm. She just dozed off and then I wrapped her up and brought her to her room. It's pretty fun just having her hang with me as I cruise on my IPad but Dad's got to get some sleep too without worrying that I will roll over her.

Seasons Change

CJ's been changing everyday and it's crazy how it's only been a few months and she gets better at grabbing, sleeping, eating, etc. I've had so much fun with her even though at times she has really tested my patience. Not like it's her fault, it's just me trying to figure out what the heck it is she is trying to tell me.

We took this pick of Calleigh at Grandma's house and she's got a ridiculous grin on her face.

Look for our next post on our first family vacation and CJ's first airplane flight to SoCal.

Home At Last

It's been 9 days since I last saw Calleigh. My first time being away from her for more than 12 hours. The days went by fast as I was productive working but each night I wished I could be there to see her to sleep. It wasn't until I came home that I realized how much I missed her. Even though it had only been 9 days, CJ changed so much. Initally I was afraid she would not recognize me but once I had her in my arms, I think she knew Daddy was home.

Mom was a rock star as she took care of CJ all by herself for the 9 days. I wonder how I would do if I had her all alone. Now that I am home, Mom can take a break and get some rest and I can continue to spoil my daugher again.

Happy Feet

Two months and three days. 64 days to the average person can mean so little - work, eat, socialize, sleep - but for a newborn, life is evolving. I've seen CJ numerous times and with each visit, there is a new development. Whether it be her weight, her facial expressions, the shrieking cries for food or even her absurd amount of gas, I'm always marveling that this precious little girl can show me new antics that keep me enchanted for hours.

But it's not just her demeanor that warms my heart, it's also the peace I see in her Mom's eyes and the tenderness in Dad's touch. I tend to do the one thing everyone tells you not to do with babies: bother them while they're sleeping. I can't help it, I just want her to be awake for the few hours I see her. So of course CJ becomes agitated and I'm bracing myself for the reprimand I'm sure to get, but it doesn't come. Just a smile from Mom and a quick laugh from Dad followed by, "now you have to entertain her."

I snapped this picture while CJ's Mom was nursing and I can't help but look at it every day. I know it's just her feet but for me, it's 2 perfect little feet. 10 perfect little toes resting comfortably in Mom's lap and it fills me with a sense of peace.

It's only been 64 days. Maybe newborns aren't the only ones evolving.

Failure to Latch

So CJ recently learned how to latch onto Mom's breast. It was a tough road teaching her but I knew eventually she would catch on. She always had the concept down but needed more practice. Each time she feeds is a step towards mastering her technique. How could she complain, it's an all you can eat buffet.

Statistics say many babies take up to 3 months to learn how to breast feed, but I guess CJ has advanced skills and learned a lot sooner. Mom really didn't push it until the past couple of weeks so I have to say CJ learned in 2-3 weeks.

I have to give a lot of credit to Mothers that decide to breast feed. There are so many benefits for the baby but it is such a grueling task which I will never experience. All I know is that it is truly a test of a parent's unwavering level of patience. CJ's mom is truly fortunate because after hours of crying, trying, and frustration CJ is now consistently breast feeding.

I usually post a pic with my post but felt it was a bit inappropriate to post this event on the web, but seeing the bond between the Mom and baby is hard to explain and it's an amazing experience. At least I still have my 11pm to 3 am feedings which allows me to bottle feed and have my own bonding time with CJ, which usually ends up with her on my chest and me playing on my IPad.

The Origin of Boogie

Many have asked where CJs nickname Boogie originated from so I thought I would give a quick recap here. Chris, CJs mom, had people throughout her whole life have a problem saying her last name, Nguyen. People would say "Nu gen", "Nugent", "Nuh Guyan" and many others that were way off. Eventually, friends began to nickname Chris "Noogie" instead of trying to say her name correctly.

When we found out CJ was coming, a college friend of Chris, Jeff Wong, came up with the name Boogie. This name was derived from Baby Noogie, therefore Boogie. Because we were holding out on finding out our baby's sex, we just started referring to the baby as Boogie and it just stuck for us.

Funny thing is that when I was at BabysRUS I saw some wet wipes that were branded Boogie Wipes.

Day Out in New Bugaboo

CJ took her first stroll out of her home with her Mom and Dad to enjoy breakfast at Alana's Cafe in Burlingame, then to Target and Babies R US. She didn't really do much except sleep.

We realized she doesn't like it when I drive slow. When she starts to cry a bit, I speed up the car and she stops crying. Must have the need for speed.

During the day out, we experienced our first public changing experience. We learned a lot from this single event. First, if you are going to change a baby, try to get them on a flat surface. CJ decided to blow one out and it got all over Mom's hands and onto the vinyl changing pad, which eventually sloped down onto CJ's back and clothes since the car seat was at an angle. Not a very fun time cleaning up after the mess. As you can see from the picture below, Mom was not happy with her soiled hands.

Sleepy Time

Parents always warn me about sleepless nights. Well, I have yet to experience a sleepless night because I have had uninterrupted short naps throughout a night, 2 hour stretches, yet to wake up less than refreshed.

My wife and I agreed not to coddle our girl but it's hard not to want to pick her up every time she starts to cry. When I put CJ on my chest, she can sleep for hours without a problem. But I can't leave her on my chest and fall asleep with the fear of crushing her. So instead, I left her on my chest as I watched TV and did some work on my laptop. It was awesome, because i had 3 hours of uninterrupted time to myself!

Tonight, we let CJ cry her lungs to exhaustion for a few minutes in which she quickly stopped and fell asleep. I guess that's what we'll have to do and hopefully, sooner than later, we can get her to sleep through the night at least 6 hours. I can see why many parents say the days of 8-10 hour nights are over. The picture above shows me crashed out during the day while my Wife was cleaning. It's hard to resist CJ's sleepy time; she makes it look so inviting.

Defusing Bombs

I'm sure every parent has experienced some type of mishap while changing their kids diapers. After two weeks of changing CJ's diaper, I have been quick and steady to escape having soiled my hands. For my wife, she was caught off guard on several occasions with a shot of fluids as well as sharting onto her hands and clothes. I could not help to laugh while observing out of range.

After today, my streak was over. Although, I was quick to change CJ's diaper, at the last second, I was hit with a warm stream of pee on my hands. The funny thing was that I could not help to smile and laugh at my dripping hands. I just let her do her thing and then quickly washed my hands and changed to a new diaper before CJ decided to detonate a cluster bomb.

By the way, I have yet to perfect the optimal fit of a diaper onto CJ. Lately, I've been getting a lot of seeping waste through her clothes. I'd better grasp a better technique soon to avoid the additional laundry.

Blazin' Sunday Afternoon

Today was Chris' Baby Shower, which turned into a baby celebration since Boogie decided to bust her way out earlier than expected. The planned due date was July 18th. Thanks to the Nguyen family's party expertise, the party was a kick-ass success. Hitting 85-90 degrees, everyone was able to settle down with food under shade, overlooking the lagoon while eating from the all you can eat taco truck.

Boogie was so well behaved all day and she did not fuss at all. Took her food like a champ at all feedings and slept on schedule. The first night we had Boogie, she did not allow us to sleep for more than 2 hours at a time. Maybe it was her getting used to her new environment.

Thanks to everyone who attended the party. It was great to catch up with everyone since we have been out of the country for a while. A big thank you to U, DMC, Tim, Minh, Minh Hang for all their help in getting that dirty house in order for the party. I would've helped more if we didn't have so many issues in the hospital. The decorations, the cupcakes, the idea of the Taco truck, the location, etc, everyone really seemed to enjoy themselves kickin' back on a Sunday afternoon.

While everyone was cleaning up, some of the kids decided to stay behind for a little backyard Boogie dance party. Note: Look who is asking his new girl interest to come out and dance.

Overcoming Milestones

Hearing test passed! It's a relief when everything goes by the textbook. I knew everything would be fine since she was already responding to my voice.





Also passed the car seat test. Boogie had to sit in the seat for 1 hour and was monitored to see if the seat disrupted her breathing.









Light Jaundice levels. CJ only had treatments for 1 day. Her complexion is awesome now.

Innie or Outie

After 13 days, CJ's tied up umbi cord dropped off today during her bath. It' hard to determine, but it looks like the belly button could be an outie. It seems to stick out a bit, but maybe it will change when she grows.

Another piece of good news that happened today was that the doctors at Mills determined that CJ would be ready to go home in two days! But CJ would have to continue to prove she can gain weight. Today she hit up 75ccs of milk in one feeding, a record high, and she gained 3 OZ in one day!

Huge panic emerged from my pores because there is so much to do before CJ comes home. I'm excited but nervous because my time is not as flexible and non-structured as it used to be. I had thoughts of throwing CJ in my Baby Bjorn and flipping the XBOX switch on or even doing WII Sports at the same time. It's going to be interesting.

What do you think? Innie or Outie

June 28 Update - Met with the pediatrician today and she said the belly button is still herniated so that is why it is protruding. So the verdict is still out on whether it will be an innie or outie.

Event of the Day:

For the first time since 1930, an American squad won a World Cup group

Read more:
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/soccer/world-cup-2010/wires/06/23/2010.ap.soc.wcup.us.reax/index.html

Father's Day?

It feels very fulfilling, being on the other side on Father's Day. Each year, I would always think of my Father on Father's Day; What to do, what to get him, etc., which I still do. But today was a milestone in my life which felt different than others, such as a birthday or anniversary. Today, it was not about me being a Father, it was about my family, especially my new daughter, CJ.

Today, I was feeling good on many different levels. Achievements were made individually and as a family.

The past 10 days, CJ was hooked up with a tube in her nose to help her eat when she couldn't take all the milk from bottle feeding. Earlier in the morning, my wife was successful feeding a full 35+ccs. I was happy because we both worried about not being able to feed her well when we take her home as we became so comfortable with the wonderful nurses at Mills Peninsula.

In the afternoon, it was decided that the tube would be out today. She would have to fight and work at every bottle feeding or else they would stick the tube back down her nose. I could not feel anything but support and encouragement because I wanted CJ to have the confidence to finish all of her milk at each feeding.

After pulling out the tube and before feeding CJ, my wife washed CJ's body and I washed her hair. It was just as soothing to me as it was to her and she just looked at me as I scrubbed/massaged her head and after her bath I was able to feed 48ccs in one sitting. Man, she was going at it really good.

Later in the night, she took another 50ccs but this time it was a bit of a challenge because she needed a diaper change midway. After trying to pee on Mom during the diaper change, she finished the rest of her milk.

My wife and I walked out of the nursery and I had to give high fives to her. What a feeling of accomplishment as parents. I know it's just the beginning but I'm just looking at baby steps.

Cries and Sighs

The first video catching Calleigh crying and it was such a sweet sound, which ended in a sigh from me.

Ed

Watching Calleigh get a bath was quite fun. She still has to get used to the concept but she seems quite happy once her whole body is clean. Combed up her hair for a little style.

This image makes her look much bigger than she is in person. She looks like she could be some other baby. In fact, my wife describes her to look a bit like an "old little man". Therefore, we have titled this picture "Ed".

Calleigh Jenna Lee

What a week it has been for me as I've watched an 8 day old infant learn the basic coordination skills of eating and developing basic bodily functions. As each day goes by, I wonder what she will learn next and the most challenging task is to learn behaviors which is the only form of communication.

This world has much to offer and this little girl will have much to offer the world.