and you donʻt stop!

Weʻve been taking advantage of Milesʻ loosely based schedule, taking him out late nights to gigs, and even dropping him off at Ninong Bobʻs for a few hours (while Jus and I enjoyed a Valentineʻs dinner). He pretty much enjoys being out at night and socializing with new people and other babies. Friday night was Out For Fame in Oakland and Jus and Uncle Arjuna were spinning. Ninong Paulskeee and cousin Paulskee were throwing the event so we definitely had to take Miles to enjoy the music and Bboyin. He was surprised and happy to see Uncle Eric in the crowd and immediately held his arms out to be carried by him. While he stayed up until 1am, sleepin for about an hour at the jam, he danced to all the funky music and was entertained by his Uncle Bugeyedbandit and Aunty Christina. He was also chillin out with Bas-1. I noticed that Miles is most attracted to folks that are on the same plane as us--all a bit nutty!







On Valentineʻs day, Miles spent a few hours at Bobawtʻs place on Ellis St. I heard he was pretty well behaved. By the time we picked him up, he was ready to go to bed. For comfort, he wanted to be held by Bob the whole time and clutched onto a Bruce Lee toy and a bag of peanuts. Thanks to Bobawts, Justin and I got to have a 1st class meal at Fresca in Noe Valley. We both agree that that was the most delicious meal weʻve ever had. Seriously. Anyways, we ended up going over our gift card! Yikes! Itʻs no wonder why we usually eat holeinthewall spots.

Yesterday, Miles got to meet his new homeboy, Marley, the son of Aunty Candi--dadʻs boss. At Golden Gate Park, Miles met more Pilipino friends, Kenny & Kelly. It was refreshing to go to a park and see other brown babies and Pilipinos because the one we usually go to is mostly puti. Marley is such a friendly boy. He chooses to be vegetarian and squishes his nose together and speaks the same language as Mileskiii, "da-daah-ohhh-oh!"









Later in the evening, Miles and Jus came along with me to my gig for a Youth Speaks Poetry Slam in the biggity O. There happened to be another toddler at the event, Sean. He was so friendly with Miles and was sad when Miles left the building to go for a walk. He was very friendly, sharing his books and some hugs with Miles. All Miles did was slobber on the books and talk his talk. I kept asking Sean to translate Milesʻ language for us. On our way home, we stopped over In&Out because dad had a fastfood craving and Miles enjoyed his grilled cheese sandwich. By the time we got home, we were all beat. The days have been longer and a lot warmer than usual and it feels great to be outdoors with this inquisitive boy!

the storm has passed...

...and Miles is feeling much better! After Justin caught a virus, I was next along with Miles. It really is challenging to take care of a sick AND teething baby while trying to recover myself. It took a lot of patience, between Justin and I--and a lot of TLC for Miles who was at the peak of his clingyness to date. I literally could not leave him to go to the bathroom. Nothing really soothed him so we pretty much listened to his cries for a week straight. And at night, he would not sleep in his crib at all--waking up to any kind of movement, searching for my hand to hold as he slept. Yes, he is so malambing but night after night of this was uncomfortable! But whatever it took for Miles to feel safe and loved---we did. And it has payed off because he is back to his normal, smiling, playful and funny self! Give thanks!

Our wonderful mornings are back, when he wakes and greets us with his squinty smiling eyes! His new thing, which he learned from his daddy, is lifting both arms up and falling on top of you! Heʻs a little wrestler! He will do this non-stop before bedtime, getting out all that excess energy. Miles is also taking more steps on his own. He was so intrigued, watching his daddy roll up lumipa and takes a few steps towards him like it ainʻt no thang. Miles has also been busy playing with his basketball, throwing it towards me or Justin (which is more like rolling it), sayin, "Baw!"

The best thing ever was this morning. He woke up, did his usual rolling around until he was ready to stand up and greet us, "Boo!" After a few minutes of watching his morning Sesame Street program, he turned towards me, made eye contact, then signed for his dede (bottle)!! He actually looks like heʻs doing close, open but with two hands. Iʻve been teaching him a few signs, mainly dede, and today, he showed us wassup! I felt so proud of him! Sometimes when he does this, he says, "dededede!"

Miles is a genius!

Miles Goes Gallibanting

We had an eventful weekend! Friday night was daddyʻs payday so he took mommy and I out for dinner. We met with him downtown after he got off from work. Iʻm learning all the right moves from my dad already. He surprised mommy with a bunch of yellow and orange roses which made her all mushy. Anyways, they are too corny for me. Iʻm a 1 year old boy and I need some life outside of mommy and daddy world. Enough with this mushy hugginʻ and kissinʻ, just feed me and let me roam the grounds! And so I did--at Farmer Brownʻs soul food restaurant. That was the first time I went to a club outside the womb! The DJ was spinnin reggae, making me do my raga bounce. I loved the crazyness inside that restaurant--so many people, loud music--all the stimulation a boy loves. Aunty Christina and Uncle Arjuna, had dinner with us too! I had fun feeding Uncle Arjuna some jalepeno cornbread. I wanted to feed the guy next to us but he was beyond my reach. After dinner, we just drove around the ʻSco, a late night out on Friday with my parents. I had so much fun cruisinʻ the TL and seeing all the crazy SF people.

On Saturday, daddy had a gig in San Jose so mommy and I spent the day at Lolaʻs house. I pretty much played with my cuzz, Darrien all day and night. I kept smacking Darrien in the face because I got too excited at times but Iʻm learning how to "be nice." When I hear mommy say that, I place my hand on Darrien gently and put my head up against his head for some love. Heʻs always nice to me and smiles everytime but I can be such a snob sometimes and crawl-run away from him when heʻs coming for me. We do have a lot of fun crawling after each other and getting into the cabinets. I also like to snack with Darrien and feed him too. The next day, I went with Darrien, Uncle Eric, Ninang Jen & mom to Japan town. While Ninang Jen got her hair did, me & Deng-deng got to check out a Bboy battle at a car show. This was our first time at a car show and Deng-dengʻs first time to watch Bboyin. I didnʻt care much for the cars and ladies and their de-de though until I heard loud bass and drums coming from huge speakers. I couldnʻt help but bounce in my stroller. And when I saw who was playing that music--it was my dad! No wonder why the music was sooo familiar! I was standing by the wall bouncing to the breaks, giving people a show. Darrien was having a lot of fun watching the Bboy battle with Uncle Eric. I was too--until the guy next to me started eating shave ice infront of me. Mom had to buy me and Deng-Deng some shave ice to keep cool from that heated battle. Daddy danced with me for awhile in between spinning his records and everyone kept calling him, "Jus Jones." All my Bboy Hiphop uncles were there hanging out with me, including my Ninong Dre! All of them could dance! Itʻs no wonder why I like to dance to this same music.

Boo!

Miles had said his first word in Hawaii and continues to say it every day, every night, to everyone, to anyone, and to himself, "Boo!" Being a 1-year-old means business for Mileskiii, letting us (his parents) know that he is a freedom lovin little boy. He owns his feelings and really pushes us to go by whatever it is that he is feeling! So one second, heʻs feeling wacky and silly, making faces and sticking his tongue out at us. The next minute, heʻs crossing his eyebrows, pursing his lips, and slapping the air with his heavy palm--embarrassed because we had the nerve to laugh at his silly antics. Ay yay yay, what a little boy weʻve created. He is definitely full of character and shows many different sides to different people.



Since the weather has warmed up, Miles has been spending mornings playing in our lovely concrete front yard--next to the big green garbage dump. Mileskiiiʻs homeboy, Diego, has all his cars, tricycles, push toy playthings out there to share. Miles gets all grimey crawling on the concrete and is so happy just to be outside. Itʻs great! Later on in the day, Iʻve been taking him to the park on California & 25th--to enjoy more sunshine, fresh air, and people watching. Heʻs warmed up to playing in sand, going down slides, climbing the actual play gym thing, and even interacting with a few of the other kids.

Yesterday, as soon as we walked in (yes, Miles can walk now but prefers to hold one of our hands), he stopped right infront of two blonde little girls, staring at them forever as if they were the Wiggles. He was just watching them talk to each other. After I pulled him away, an action he loathes, he started grunting and stiffening his chubby little body, telling me he wanted to be free. So I just let him go. And he crawled back to those little girls and smiled. Poor baby, they didnʻt even pay any attention to him saying, "Boo!" Itʻs a whole new ball park now. Miles & his freedom. I really just let him go off--ofcourse, Iʻll be a few feet away from him, watching every move. But now that Miles is a big boy, understanding a little more about our world, he is not one to stay close to us and cling. Thank God. Iʻm glad I donʻt have to carry him forever! But then again, I do get a little sad now that he doesnʻt want me to carry him forever. But he is still a little boy with little fat feet feet.



He also likes to wind down on his own--without being rocked. Heʻs down to having 2 bottles, using his pacifier less, growing up. My baby is a little boy. And I do type that in amazement. One of the many great things about him being a little older and wiser, is in the way he communicates. He has a sense of humor and knows how to make us laugh. One of the best things is waking up with his face in your face, whispering, "Boo." And as soon as I open my eyes, he has this huge grin and starts doing his little bouncing dance, shaking his hands in the air!

Ok, see I can go on and on about anything Miles. Our days are so simple and full of love. I am such a tree-hugger when it comes to my baby. He has definitely softened us up a bit :)

Happy Birthday Miles!

Well we are back home in SF! We had a very relaxing, fun and memorable time in Hawaii, visiting grandparents and meeting family and friends! Miles got to do a lot of outdoor exploring, loving nature and Hawaii night skies, feeling grass and sand on the soles of his fat feet, and the ofcourse--floating in the ocean!

We all were pretty spoiled on our vacation, eating just about everything, cruising, sleeping in--basicallly doing all the things we donʻt normallly do here in the bay. Miles had such a good time with grandma & grandpa, spending the night with them and playing all day long. He was really at home in Waipahu. It really felt as though he belonged there! I felt like i belonged there! I miss the nature, good vibes, and warm weather already!

New yearʻs eve was reminiscent of my childhood when fireworks were legal and seen & heard everywhere! The city was literallly clouded in smoke and it sounded like war was going on in the backyard. Ruben and Erica flew in for the festivities!

Milesʻ 1st birthday was such a special day for us all! I couldnʻt believe that it was exactly a year ago when I was in the hospital with Jus, my mom, and Lea. It really felt as though that day had just happened. Itʻs amazing how fast Miles has grown into the toddler that he is today. His birthday in Waipahu was filled with delicious local food and pupus, full of family, extended family, and friends, as well as kids and babies. Aunty Theresa put together a very thoughtful and creative slideshow, from Milesʻ newborn days up to the days leading to his birthday. I felt emotional watching it, seeing how small the monster once was, wishing I could keep him that size forever! All I can say is that Justin and I, and Miles would not have survived all the CRAZY, overwhelming, and life-altering changes without all the support and love we have been blessed with from God, our parents, family and close friends. Maraming salamat!

And some pictures from Hawaii..more to come!











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On our flight home, Justin and I were pretty sad to be leaving mom and dad & Hawaii. Poor Miles! Iʻm pretty sure heʻs wondering where his grandparents are! Since weʻve been back, Miles has been crawling to the door and yelling to go outside!

On Saturday, Miles had a birthday dinner with family at my parentʻs house. It was pretty funny when we were singing happy birthday to him because Darrien was right next to him and he would start crying everytime everyone yelled "blow the candle!" It felt good to be around a bunch of babies, Miles and Darrien being some of the oldest ones! Their cousins were all there; Aron, Nina, Jenna, and Andre. Miles got more presents and love!









We spent the weekend in Vallejo so Darrien and Miles could catch up on their playtime. Darrien is crawling superfast now, cruising along the couch and climbing the stairs. Miles and him also have such a funny relationship already. Theyʻll fight over toys, pushing and smacking each other, then the next thing you know they are reaching to touch each others hands and smiling! Itʻs so cute....My parents have never been happier with these two fat boys! They are the remedy to their stress! Give thanks for babies!

I made it!

Aloha! I did it! I'm finally here in Waipahu, visiting my grandparents and spending the holidays here Pilipino-Hawaiian style. After a peaceful flight, I arrived here early yesterday afternoon. I was a very behaved boy on the plane because mommy drugged me up with some benadryl (thanks a lot Aunty Teresa)! So I slept for 3 hours straight and woke up for some Elmo and people-watching. I only whined because I wanted my bottle. But overall, I was very good.

When I got to the airport, I was so excited--I knew fun times and delicious eating was on the way! Grandma was there to greet me and I was so surprised because she popped out of nowhere! Grandpa fed me a tiny banana and we rode in his VW van. It was the first time I got to sit face-forward.

At my grandparent's home, I explored and explored non-stop. I feel so at home. But grandma laughed at me and said I was a "city-boy." I didn't like the feel of grass and rocks beneath my feet! Mommy and daddy think I'm an old soul because its the first time they've seen me so willingly to go to anybody. And they thought I had separation anxiety! I didn't care when mommy was there when I woke-up in the morning! I just went to grandma! :) I think mommy has separation anxiety!

Last night I got to meet my Uncle-grandpa Robert and Aunty Terry at dinner with Aunty Rosy, Aunty Bri, grandma & grandpa. I grubbed on mashpotatoes and cornbread. What can I say--I love to eat like my mommy. This morning I had a big breakfast that grandma made, waffles and papaya. And I made them a big surprise in my diaper to give thanks. I love it here and feel right at home. I feel so free maybe because I'm boomba--well, just in my diapers mostly.

I will tell you more and show you pictures soon!

Binyag weekend photos

My mommy still has to get copies of more binyag photos..but for now, hereʻs a glimpse into that whole weekend:



Grandma & grandpa just arrived and grandma is making me smile!



I love grandpa & he loves me...and IHOP.



Getting ready for my christening. Check out my fit. So fresh and so clean, clean...



Uncle Mikey is silly--so is the rest of my family!



At PPQʻs ready to grub! Everybody "Got it crackin" except for Darrien and I!



My dad, Ninong Uncle Rube, Aunty Trisha, and Uncle Mikey



The last night of grandma & grandpaʻs visit at Olive Garden for dinner.



Ninong Uncle Ruben loves me :)



See, I can do the Itsy Bitsy spider when Grandma sings it...



Donʻt you love my fine-dining suit? Itʻs the Vallejo boy in me!



Me & my hat with my dad & his long head...Iʻm hiding mineʻs beneath that hat!



Can I get a grill? I have 2 teeth now on 2 more on the way!

Mileskiii's Binyag

Thanksgiving was one busy holiday! We spent it in Vallejo, grubbing on mom's delicious cooking. Deng-deng & Miles got to try some garlic mash & turkey. That whole week was pretty busy and it hasn't slowed down since! Justin had just got back from his Seattle Out For Fame gig, and we both were recovering from being sick. Miles was doing good until getting the runny nose on the day before his binyag, Saturday November 25th. But despite the busy holiday, we were happy to see Grandma & Grandpa! Miles got to spend more quality time with his Pilipino-Hawaiian grandparents, laughing with Grandma and learning new things from Grandpa.

Picking them up at the airport was such a treat. Miles immediately smiled at Grandma. And he just eyed Grandpa, figuring out just who he was. Later that evening, Miles stayed in with Grandpa at the hotel in Chinatown while mom & I went off gallibanting. We came back to a screaming Miles and a very calm papa! Miles' screams did not even faze grandpa (or did they?!) They definitely hit those nerves with Jus and I. But the following day, he warmed up to his grandpa more and started smiling at him, showing how comfortable he was with him.

Miles was so lucky to have visitors from all over to attend his first spiritual (& institutional) celebrasyon. Grandma & grandpa, Aunty Rosie, Aunty Lisa came from HI. Aunty Marilyn came from San Diego. Oh and his Aunty Trisha and Uncle Mikey also flew out from Hi. It was great to be around family that whole week! We pretty much camped at the Hilton with grandma & grandpa.

Miles caught our cold that weekend but was pretty good despite his discomforts. He was very playful and friendly with everyone, welcoming new family to carga him. He would get excited with grandpa and try to show him that he could do close -open. And grandpa would wave, Bye Bye to him and Miles learned how to wave back. After learning that from grandpa, he hasn't stopped waving at people! It's so cute to see him greet people. He even waves Bye Bye at the tv screen at the end of Teletubbies when they each wave and say Bye. I love seeing him communicate more and more.

Miles' binyag was great! First of all, on our way to the church, early Sunday afternoon, Justin tells me the story of how Ruben, Jerr, Rohawn and him were late from Ro's binyag. Everyone was at the church waiting except for them! "What a story!" I thought. On this special day of Mileskiii's, it was pouring hard and we were in a crunch, transporting everyone from the hotel to the church, across the city. Miles ended up napping on our way to the church so we decide to let him sleep in while Jus makes another trip back to the hotel to pick up Aunties. Anyway, mom & I are at the church waiting for guests. It turns out there is another family sharing the baptism with us. About 20 minutes later, mostly everyone is there ready to get the prayers started.....except for Miles, Justin, and grandpa! It was kinda funny but also a moment of feeling hiya for the other family, patiently waiting with their sleeping baby. Oh, our guests outnumbered the other family--about 40 to 5!

But as soon as Miles arrived everything eased up. I wanted to laugh, standing in this big circle, with all eyes. And I'm there without my baby....my babies! :) What a story to tell Miles later. Well, the actual ceremony was nice. Miles' nap did him good and he behaved like a good catholic boy. He didn't cry with the priest pouring water on his head. He did, however, push the priests hands away when annointing him with holy oil! Oh that was a funny sight, seeing him dodge the priests hand and shoving it away from him.

Jus and I were happy that everyone made it, including Miles' 1 million godparents; Aunties Lea, Jen, Maritess, Erica, and Diane, and Uncles Ruben, Bob, Paulskeee, Dre, and grandpa/uncle Cesar. After taking 123, 34129387 pictures, we all headed to PPQ's for the good stuff. And yes, it was goooood. Mmmm, mmmm. Oh I'd love some right about now. Miles' grandparents really hooked it up! Grandma made cute and very creative favors! Everyone got a couple to take home, even the Pinoy valet at the Hilton. But back to PPQ reception grubbery--it was delicious. We were all rockin' our "Let's get it crackin'" bibs, getting down on purst class:

Deep Fried Calamari & Prawns
Papaya Salad with Shrimp
2 Roasted Crabs
Peppercorn Crab
Sizzling Pork
Steamed Shitake Sea Bass
Beef Steak Cube
Braised String Beans
House Garlic Noodles
Deep Fried Banana with Ice Cream

Yes, I just googled the menu to relive the delicious moment. And while we were all there, stuffing our faces and talking stories at each table, I realized how important binyags are not just for the religious sacarament that it is--but for the cultural aspect of this occassion. It is one day, a new beginning, and one of the first of many feasts--for our Pilipno families and friends to get together to celebrate life, Mile's new life. He was just about 11 months and his binyag was the first celebration in his honor. Next month, will be his 2nd celebration in Hawaii for his 1st birthday and I hear it will be big.

Speakin of the first year of his life, I can't believe it has simply passed just like that! It's amazing to see how much a little being can grow in a year's worth of time. And a year really does not feel like a long period of time anymore. One minute, he was stationary, lying on the bed, swaddled, and the next minute he is waving his hand Bye Bye, climbing up the staircase!

Miles has definitely brought a lot more sunshine in to our lives! Mommy loves you Mileskiii....