새해 복 많이 받으세요, Happy New Year!

What a year it's been. With the arrival of a new member of the family things will only continue to get better. Again, on behalf of our family to yours we wish you the very best in 2010.

Christmas...

What a Christmas it was!  Stockings were hung by the fireplace with care in hopes that Saint Nick soon would be here.

We were a bit sad this year as Malcolm didn't want to take a picture with the Mall Santa. In fact,  he wanted little to do with Santa at all. Even getting him to take the yearly picture with the Polar Express stuffed Santa took a lot of coaxing (aka bribery) although you wouldn't know that from the picture.

We're not really sure how much he understands, but one thing he really enjoyed this Christmas was opening all the presents. We would like to extend our heartfelt wishes of health and happiness to all those who read this blog:  family, friends, and supporters. Happy holidays to you and best wishes for 2010. Here are some pictures and video from the day:


Christmas 2009 from Obiwanhavanese on Vimeo.

Stanley Park Train...

The family got out to the Stanley Park train again this year. They bundled everyone up including little Melody to take part in the annual festivities. As always, Malcolm enjoyed seeing the lights and riding the choo choo. It wasn't as cold as years past, but certainly chilly. All tummies were warmed with a dose of hot chocolate and churros. Roger particularly enjoyed the dancing gingerbread man this year.

Melody is 3 weeks old...

Our sleep patterns are still a bit messed up, but luckily Roger's going to be off work for the next week. Now at least they can spell each-other off while the other one naps.  Melody has been a solid sleeper throughout the day, but has still been a bit fussy around 2-4am. Roger and Tracey have been experimenting with trying to bottle feed her so it will give a little more freedom to Tracey. We'll see how it goes, but first tests have been going well.

Malcolm had a rare treat today, he got to go over to Joseph and Nicole's house on a play date. Uncle Glen came to the house bright and early to come pick him up. It seemed like he had a great time. Here are some recent pics and a video of Malcolm rocking out on the guitar:

Guitar Solo from Obiwanhavanese on Vimeo.

Help-Portrait Vancouver

Roger got to participate in a world-wide event yesterday called Help-Portrait. The Vancouver event was a huge success servicing over 400 individuals in the lower east side.  It all took place at the Salvation Army's Grace Mansion on Hastings Street. "There were so many smiling faces, such a great experience for all involved".  Roger hopes the H-P will become an annual event. See below for more information:

Event Link
Here are some video links shot by videographer Steve Tan:
Help-Portrait Vancouver Video Link

The annual Christmas Santa photo.

So Malcolm hasn't been to keen to take a picture with the mall Santa, but at least Roger and Tracey convinced him to take it with the stuffed one again this year. Oh and here's an outtake with me and Melody as well. Tracey thinks she looks too frightened here. It's tough to get a 12 day old baby to pose for pictures!

Melody 9 days old...

Life with a baby sure changes things, but we've sure been lucky to have a good one so far. Her poor brother Malcolm on the other hand has come down with a cold, his eyes are watering, nose running, and well.... quite a little bear to be around. He's certainly been the mayor of Crankytown these past two days. We're all hoping that he'll feel better soon. Here are some recent photos, much thanks to Leah and Travis for their generous gifts.

First trip outside with the baby...

Tracey and Roger re-enacted their first trip out with the baby and went to Metrotown. Here are two pictures almost exactly 3 years apart. Tracey looks great, doesn't she?

Happy Birthday Carol!

It was Carol's birthday yesterday, she came over with Mom to have some cake. Malcolm enjoyed one big piece and even ate both chocolate straws that were on top. Happy 16th birthday to cousin Carol, we love you very much.

Malcolm...

Everyone always asks us how Malcolm is adjusting and the short answer is pretty well. I'm not exactly sure what he thinks about his baby sister yet, but all in all he's been pretty good. He did get woken up by her crying the other night, but other than that the evenings have been good. Maybe he can become a deeper sleeper as time goes on.

It's been a big adjustment for everyone, but things have been much better. It probably has to do with the second baby thing, Tracey and Roger are more relaxed and more experienced. Melody is so cute, her temperament seems different and the biggest difference is that Tracey has been able to breastfeed, something that never materialized with Malcolm.