Seth Andrew-----Emma Christine

2010 Re-Cap

2010-12-28T15:51:00.000-08:00

Two Thousand Ten is almost over!

We are so thankful for everything God has done in our lives this year. Here is 2010 in retrospect, with a few pictures sprinkled in...

2010 has been a busy year for the Toaders, but a year blessed by God. We've been busy growing, working, and trying to relax in-between. In January, Seth turned 2. Looking back at the pictures, he seems like a little baby compared to the kiddo he's grown up to be now.

In June Emma turned 1. Her first year, and now year and a half, have flown by. She seems to blossom faster than I can keep up with.

In the spring we also found out that we will be welcoming a new member to our family in January 2011: a little girl (whose name is yet to be determined).

Seth and Emma have become great playmates this year. Once Emma started crawling and walking, the two of them spend much time together playing with blocks and pretend food, drawing with crayons (and that not being limited to paper), and just plain having fun running through the house.

The summer was quite busy for us. My parents moved to Portland in July, and unfortunately my Mom's health has since been declining. It has been quite a trial for our family to see everything unfold. This also kept us very busy, so we took every opportunity to take quick (and not so quick) trips around Oregon and beyond.

In July we went to Mexico on a wonderful, relaxing vacation. Throughout the summer we got away to the beach for a weekend, and in the fall we went to Hood river for their bounty of apples. Adrian and I also took a quick trip to Boston to visit Simon.

Before we knew it, Thanksgiving was upon us. We spent a quiet evening at home just the four (well, technically five) of us. Christmas quickly followed, and now the new year is at our doorstep. (DEC 2010 Photos)

Looking back on 2010, it has been a very good year. Adrian and I had the privilege of watching Seth grow up from a little toddler to a boy with budding imagination. We are now enjoying very interesting and comical conversations with him, and we just love getting a glimpse into his sweet little self. He is a wonderful big brother to Emma. He often walks over to give her an unsolicited kiss, or helps her up if she trips over a toy. He genuinely finds satisfaction in knowing she is happy. He has grown a particular interest in trains, especially Thomas. He also loves giving Adrian a hand with tools, fixing different things around the house.

Emma has grown into a little toddler. She started walking this summer, which opened up a whole new world to her. She has a sweet yet independent spirit, which pushes her to explore and conquer her little obstacles without fear. She knows how to stand up for what she wants (a toy that risks being taken away by Seth for example), and yet will gladly hand Seth something he wants in order to make her brother happy. It is wonderful to see the difference between the two of them, and yet to see the formation of such a wonderful friendship.

Adrian has been very busy at work. He recently changed the area where he works in his company, giving him a larger line to oversee. It has been an adjustment for him, but he has conquered the challenge beautifully, as he always does.

I have been trying to keep up with kids, house, life...all while patiently (and now not so patiently) watching and feeling my baby grow inside. Less than a month now until our lives will change again, and we will have to adjust to a third little being in our family. We are truly excited--and a little apprehensive to see how life in five will be. At the end of next year we will have many more stories to tell, of a little Boy getting into mischief, a little girl trying to keep up with him, and a little baby discovering her new world.

Thanks for reading our story. We wish you God's blessings and protection in the year to come. Happy New Year!

Here are some photo albums from 2010

SETH AND EMMA

SUMMER 2010

FALL 2010

December 2010

Our two kiddo's

2009-06-26T22:01:00.000-07:00

Emma at home

2009-06-18T16:07:00.000-07:00

Meet Emma Christine

2009-06-15T12:34:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 13th, at 12:30 pm, our family was blessed with the addition of a precious little girl, Emma. She was 6lb 13oz, 19in long. The labor went very well, although it was a bit long (12 hours). We had a wonderful time of bonding when she was born.

Weighing it at 3.1 kg.

Foot prints.

Her first bath.

All snug in Mom's arms.

A little later that day, Emma had quite a few visitors.

Uncle Simon.

Dorothy.

Justin and Aniela.

Lelia Mann and her family.

And, of course, big brother Seth!

Seth wasn't too impressed. I don't think he realizes that this baby is here to stay. We'll see how he does at home with her. So far, he's been very curious at this crying bundle.

Our little growing family.

Seth's 1st Year Slideshow

2009-06-11T14:19:00.000-07:00

In anticipation of the arrival of our baby girl, I put together a slide show of Seth's first year of life. I hope you enjoy it.

Trip to Depoe Beach

2009-06-11T13:53:00.000-07:00

Mommy and Daddy got away for three days to the beach without their little Seth. We had such a wonderful time! It was a beautiful, relaxing place to be. We missed Seth some, but knowing that Seth was having a blast with Cornelia and Grandpa, and we were having a blast at the beach with Andrew and Anca, we didn't feel so bad leaving him behind.

This area has some amazing coastline landscapes.

Andrew and Anca--still newlyweds.

...and after almost 3 years, so are we.

Best friends (and cousins)

We visited the Newport aquarium. There were sharks swimming over our heads here.

One of Oregon's famous lighthouses.

We saw many seals in the wild. You can see them warming in the sun on the rocks.

Devil's Punchbowl, a sunken cave that is now being carved out by the waves.

Andrew and Anca left early, and we had a day alone--just the two of us.

Ana and Andre's visit

2009-06-11T13:35:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful surprise visit from Ana, my good friend from Germany (and the maid of honor at my wedding), and Andre her husband. We visited a few spots in Portland, but sadly we only had a couple of days together, and didn't spend as much time with them as we would have liked. It was so nice to see them, though. they keep saying it's our turn to visit them next. I would love to, someday soon...maybe I should start a donation fund for the trip :o)

Downtown on the riverfront.

Ana and Seth cooling down in the fountain.

Checking out the boats on the Willamette.

Walking through Bridgeport.

Ana and Andre brought Seth a German vocabulary book. He loves looking through it, but I think it will be more useful for Mommy to remember her German than for Seth (at least for now). They also brought us some delicious European chocolate. Sorry, we're not sharing!

Memorial Day

2009-06-11T13:15:00.001-07:00

We spent Memorial Day at Pete and Lelia's house along with the extended family and quite a few people from the youth group. We grilled chicken and had lots of other food on the side, and some mighty good desert. We then went to the park and played volleyball (on full stomachs). Mine was especially full :o), and forgetting I had a baby in there I even dove for the ball a few times. All was well however, the baby didn't seem to mind.

Some people held a badminton tournament

Adrian the grill master

Someone gave Seth a whole roll, and he slowly chipped away at it for about an hour.

And then came dessert.

The things Seth can do at 15 months

2009-05-28T12:13:00.000-07:00

I have not written a journal for Seth. This blog will act as a hopefully suitable substitute. That is why, feeling bad that I haven't recorded Seth's progresses so far, I decided to sit down and do it now, even though it's a bit late. Seth turned 16 months yesterday, and he had been saying some words since 12 months already, so you can see how behind I am. But I said "late is better than never".
I am enjoying this stage in Seth's development so much that I beg him every day not to grow up so fast. Ever since he turned one, he started "talking" his adorable baby talk--I can't get enough of it. He will come around the corner with a serious look on his face, walk up to me and tell me something very important. I will nod my head and say "of course!" and, satisfied, he will turn around and go back to his activities. Or I will be working around the house and suddenly realize that Seth isn't around. A bit worried, I start searching the rooms one by one only to find him contently sitting in his room with a book on his lap, patiently turning the pages and studying the pictures.
One of his favorite things to do is to close doors, as funny as that sounds. If I leave a cabinet door open (or is he opens it himself), he won't leave until he closes it. Same goes for the dishwasher, the washer and dryer and the front door. A couple of months ago he even mastered the sliding door, which requires a few more muscles. Another favorite activity is the laundry. He has always been fascinated with our futuristic washer and dryer, but he is now (for a couple of months) helping me do the laundry by taking clothes out of the washer, putting them in the dryer, putting the fabric softener in, closing the door and turning the dryer on. He is so proud of himself when he sees the clothes tumbling inside, and he knows he did it himself!
He is also starting to play differently with his toys. We bought him some mega blocks and other "building" toys, and I can see a problem-solving mind at work already. He tries to put together the blocks, fit them in all different ways, and when he's done, of course, he puts them away (with a bit of help from Mom).
I am constantly amazed at how much he understands. I have been talking to him just a bit above his level, assuming he probably won't understand most of it, but one day (a few months ago) I said, not expecting a reaction: Seth, go find your shoes and bring them to me. We were at someone else's house, but he went in the other room, grabbed both shoes and handed them to me. My mouth dropped open! Now he can understand many of the things I ask him to do, and he does them so obediently. He is such a good little boy--I consider myself very blessed.

Here are some of the things he can do now:

He can ask for milk in sign language, and even say : "mich, mich"
Yesterday he also learned to say "please" and "thank you" in sign. He is catching on so quickly!

He can also sign for juice, and say "jish, jish"

With another baby on the way, I am eager to teach him how to feed himself.

Sometimes it gets a bit messy, so he cleans it up with a napkin.

Thankfully, he is getting two new teeth on top, for a grand total of four. But what is so exciting is that he can now bite! (food, that is)

He loves to close drawers and doors.

Here he's showing off his muscles with the dishwasher door.

The task wouldn't be complete without actually turning on the dishwasher.

Giving Mommy five after a job well done.

He also helps with laundry:

Seth loves pointing.

Sometimes he just points around the room aimlessly. But when he sees something he likes, he says : "look!". His favorite thing to stare at (and turn on by himself)
is the fan in the living room.

When I ask him: where's your belly button, he lifts up his shirt and tries to find it--of course that's a bit tricky when you have a belly his size.
He can also find "urechia, nasul, gura..."

"let's see, what am I supposed to do here?"

Cleaning up after he is done playing.

He LOVES sitting on this little stool. It's the perfect size. One time I had to use it to reach something high, and he came to pull me off of it. When I got off, he quickly took it to his room and sat on it as upon a throne.

He loves sitting in his room, reading his books. The only thing that will capture his attention more is the computer. He will sit in front of it and actually move and click the mouse, and type, for hours. Sometimes I come back and find all sorts of windows open, and settings changed.

Putting his books away.

Trying to put on his "gocks". This was one of his first words.
His very first word was "Daddy". When he sees Adrian walking through the door, he runs to him with a huge smile on his face saying "Daddy!", and as soon as he's picked up, he points to where he wants to go. Daddy and he run there together at top speed.

I hope you don't think I'm bragging. Like I said before, I just want to record these things, more for myself than anything, before they pass and I forget. This is such an exciting time for Seth, and for me, as he's discovering his world and interacting with it more and more.
My favorite, latest development is his learning how to give kisses. I must ask him every five minutes to give me one of his cute, wet little kisses. And, of course, I can't give him enough of them back.

Seth at the park

2009-05-27T17:45:00.000-07:00

We have a wonderful little park next to our house, and now that summer is here, Seth gets to explore its playground, and acquire all sorts of new skills. He especially likes the slide. He can climb his way up a labyrinth of steps and obstacles, and go down the slide all by himself. Besides the thrill of the ride, I can see on his face the satisfaction of accomplishing the task all on his own.

That was so much fun...here we go again!

" I did it all by myself"

Other fun activities:

Turning an engine wheel.

Getting stuck under ladders that are too big to climb for now.

And then it's time to go home.

Woodburn Tulip Festival

2009-05-17T21:41:00.000-07:00

This truly was a magical trip. Only in postcards had I seen rolling fields of tulips in a rainbow of colors. Being there touched your senses in a unique way. We visited the tulip fields with Grandpa Toader and Cornelia. Seth wasn't particularly impressed by the tulips (although he made sure to touch and attempt to eat a few), but he did enjoy running through the little garden they had set up, and playing in a playhouse for kids.

A boy will want to eat just about anything!

His first lesson in Botany

Our little soon-to-be-born girl.

Nobody like Daddy.

No wonder Seth is so cute--he takes after his Dad.

Canon Beach in April

2009-05-17T21:22:00.000-07:00

After many long months of...well...being lazy, I am finally posting some pictures. We haven't been doing much anyway--mostly working around the house, frantically trying to finish up before Baby Girl Toader arrives. But a few weekends ago we managed to sneak in a trip to the beach. We had a beautiful, warm day (except for the ever-present breeze). Seth just loved running on the sand, and occasionally dipping his feet in the water.

When Seth got tired, he got a free ride from Dad. I could've used one too!

Checking out the muscles.

Seeing his first starfish.

Seth Turns One!

2009-02-09T15:57:00.001-08:00

We celebrated Seth's birthday, which is on January 25, with our extended family.
Seth had a wonderful cake made by Cornelia, and his very first candle to blow out.

Seth seemed to be very excited with the prospect of making a wish, blowing the candle, and sinking his tiny fingers into the whipped cream.

I think he also really liked all the attention he got.

Did you make a wish?

Here we go! (He needed a little help from Mommy)

Good job!

Now it was time for the messy part. He is such a good little boy that he wasn't sure about digging his hands into the food.

But he soon got the hand of it and thought it was a blast.

Time for presents

He got lots of neat things like books, bibs, a jacket and some books!

We had some food...

And a good time chatting.

Joey was content with playing the guitar.

Tommy showing off to the camera.

Sweet Maddy.

Rachel and Hannah chatting.

Unchiul Mihai

Mommy and her little munchkin.

What do I need toys for? I've got grandpa's keys!

Lelia Mann--soon to have a little boy of her own.

Two (matching) Lelias

Cornelia and little Seth

At the end of a busy day, full of friends and fun and presents...

little one-year-old Seth was a bit tuckered out.

Seth's First Christmas

2009-01-17T21:39:00.000-08:00

We started off the day with a special present under the tree for Seth. There was nothing special about the present itself, except that it was Seth's first Christmas present ever. He wasn't sure what to think of it. He liked the bag at first, and then the wrapping paper. After playing with those, he discovered the box inside, which was also interesting. At long last, after a little help from Mom and Dad, he got to the toy, which is a giggly two-faced man who laughs and sings.

After this, we headed to Marta's house for a celebration with the whole Popescu family. There were lots of kids, lots of laughter, and lots of presents. There, Seth got his very own Christmas present from Elena: a teddy bear!

Click HERE to view the complete album

Afterwards, to complete a full day, we went to his grandpa Toader's house for another party. We had a wonderful dinner with Tudor, Cornelia, Simon and another family with two kids, and Seth got some presents there too: he got a Blazer's hat--after all, he's his father's boy. He also got a xylophone and a choo choo train, both of which still entertain him tremendously. So, Seth came home full of presents, and thoroughly exhausted. But still, with a smile on his face.

Click HERE to view the complete album

After a long break...

2009-01-17T21:14:00.000-08:00

Alas, another month has passed, and I haven't posted any more pictures of our little munchkin. But what a month it has been! Three weddings, 2 birthdays, and many family get-togethers for Christmas and the New Year. And so many changes in Seth! He started walking, and he's also approaching his first birthday. But more on that in the posts to follow. For now, I would like to wish all those reading these lines a very blessed and prosperous new year, filled with the joy that can only come from God. May God bless you all.

My first snow!!!

2008-12-16T15:41:00.000-08:00

We bundled Seth up for his first snow-a very rare occurrence in Portland.

We went for a short walk down our street, because it was bitterly cold, and it started snowing hard toward the end.

Seth was mesmerized by the snow. It's supposed to snow again tonight, so we might give him another chance to "play in the snow".

My new ball

2008-12-16T15:34:00.001-08:00

Seth got a new soft, squishy ball. He loves to play catch with his dad, and to chase the ball all around the house.

He, of course, also likes to put it in his mouth--like all other objects within reach.

Simon's Birthday

2008-12-16T15:26:00.000-08:00

For Simon's birthday we had the family over for dinner. We had a yummy thanksgiving-style meal with baked chicken.

The candles I got didn't really work: they started melting in the cake before I even lit them!

Cornelia sipping spiced apple cider.

Simon's dad is inspecting his gift from us: a bluetooth.

Helping with the Christmas Tree

2008-12-16T15:20:00.000-08:00

Seth was helping Dad set up the Christmas tree--his first one!
But first, he wants to show everyone his first two teeth. Aren't they cute?

Adrian's Birthday Party

2008-12-06T19:32:00.000-08:00

We had a nice party for Adrian's Birthday and for our housewarming. I think I counted close to 50 people in our house! It was great. Seth's next door neighbor, who is 4 days younger than him, came over also. He found a cup he really liked, and played with it for a while, until Seth saw how much fun it was and decided he wants to play with it too. So he started chasing Justin, and finally got the cup from him. So Justin crawled after him and got it back. They played like this for a while until someone gave Seth his very own brand new foam cup. Guess what? He shoved it aside and kept going after Justin's cup! These little kiddo's are so much fun: and it neat to see their personalities coming through already.

Thankgiving

2008-12-06T19:23:00.000-08:00

We spent a very nice Thanksgiving at the Toaders' house. The turkey was so yummy, and we had a great time with the family. Seth had a great time exploring the house, playing the piano and tasting the treats. Unfortunately I wasn't in a picture-taking mood, so I didn't get any shots with the family. Silly me!!

Yogurt on my nose

2008-10-18T00:28:00.000-07:00

When my mouth isn't big enough, I like to eat with my nose.

Is something funny?

My first haircut!

2008-10-16T15:48:00.000-07:00

Haircut?? But I like my hair the way it is!

Gimme that. I'll do it myself.

No! Wait! It'll never grow back again! What if I don't like it?

Oh the plight of being a helpless infant. I have no say in what I am subjected to.

Vancouver Lake

2008-10-16T15:13:00.000-07:00

We spent one of those perfect summer afternoons at Vancouver late early this month. The light was just perfect, the water was calm, and the leaves were gently falling to the ground. Days like these are priceless--and so are the pictures.

(I have such a handsome husband)

A few funny faces

2008-10-16T15:03:00.000-07:00

Vineyards

2008-10-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

Back in August we did a tour of the vineyards in the Columbia valley. It was an interesting-- and beautiful experience.

My recent favorites

2008-10-07T11:39:00.000-07:00

Never say Never

2008-09-11T12:15:00.001-07:00

I am sorry i have been so lazy with this blog. I enjoy keeping it up, as I hope you enjoy looking at it, but unfortunately life gets in the way of many of the things I like to do, to make room for the necessities.
I wanted to share this article with you, because I could relate to it so well. I am sure many of you moms out there will also relate. I would love to hear your comments on it.
I read it in Fit Pregnancy, the Aug 08 issue.

"I knew exactly how I was going to look and feel when I was expecting. My pregnant profile would be buff-with-a-bump, outfitted in snug tops and hip-hugging jeans that would accentuate my belly. And while I'd had friends who gained (gasp!) 30-plus pounds during their pregnancies, I wasn't going to put on an ounce more than the advised 25. Imagine how shocked I was to find myself in sloppy sweats, craving cheeseburgers and dry-heaving into a trash can every five minutes...Never say Never. In the throes of life, things change. When you've labored for two days and your doctor says your choices are and epidural or a C-section, you may find yourself opting for something formerly unthinkable. When you've bounced, rocked, and swaddled an inconsolable baby for six hours, it may occur to you that getting her to sleep-even if it means popping in a pacifier or nursing her in your bed-might be better for both of you than sticking to you guns.
I've still got volumes to learn about parenting, but here's what I know: You don't have to decide today how you're going to act for the rest of you life. It doesn't matter how anyone else does it either. Stay true to yourself and your instincts. And don't judge another mom until you've driven a mile in her minivan". --Jenna McCarthy

The Piano Virtuoso

2008-09-11T12:06:00.001-07:00

Seth has an incredible attraction toward the piano. I think I got him on video playing the piano at 4 months. Even then, he would play his little inventions with both hands, then look to us for approval and praise. He always has a beaming smile on his face when he sits in front of the keys. And when he gets bored of his toys, he crawls to the piano, lifts himself up and tiptoes his way up to the keys. He won't leave us alone until he's sitting in the performance seat. It's a good thing his Mom is a piano teacher! I think we'll be starting lessons soon (if they haven't already started)

Our little snot-faced kid :o)

2008-09-11T12:00:00.000-07:00

Well, despite the runny nose, Seth is busy getting into his basket of toys. Now that he can crawl, he helps himself to whatever he likes. So when he feels like checking out the stash, he simply crawls over and tips the whole basket. As the toys come spilling out, he gets a huge smile and his eyes just light up with delight. This is the life!

7 months old!

2008-09-11T11:54:00.001-07:00

Hmm Mom, I'm kinda bored deciding what outfit to wear. I have a better idea:

How about I learn how to crawl!

Aren't you just so proud of me?

Seth started crawling on his7-month birthday. At first he started slowly, only taking a few "steps" at a time. But pretty soon (after 2 days) he started cruising all over the house. He is very excited about his new-found freedom. He gets into everything within reach (and his reach has just expanded). Mom has to keep a good eye on him. But what makes me so proud of him is that he's already starting to show good character: if I tell him "Seth, no, don't touch the plant!", he will stop and find something else to get into. He is such little munchkin!!

2008-08-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

The day before Seth's 7-month birthday we went hiking near Multnomah Falls. This was one of the most beautiful hikes I have ever done. It was about 4.5 mile up and down a steep mountain, but along the way you are rewarded with dozens of beautiful waterfalls. Seth enjoyed sitting in the backpack and watching the rocks and trees go by.

At the top of Multnomah Falls

I love my Mommy...

2008-08-24T12:32:00.000-07:00

...and Mommy loves me.

Helping with Laundry

2008-08-24T12:28:00.000-07:00

Sleeping like a Baby

2008-08-11T14:29:00.001-07:00

Merwin Lake

2008-08-11T11:45:00.000-07:00

We went to Merwin Lake the other day with Simon, with Dori Popescu and her family, with Marta and Bunicul and with Lelia Mann's girls. We had a great time swimming in the cool water, considering it was scorching hot outside. Seth had an awesome time too, lounging in mini camping chairs, on the blanket, and wading in the lake. Oh, the good old days of summer!

Here's Seth taking his first squeamish steps into the cold lake.

What is this stuff?

I could get used to this!

Aside from the Mohawk and the beer belly, he's a pretty good looking kid.

Doesn't he look like a little Buddah?

Dori and Seth

Seth contemplating the meaning of life.

We also had a great water fight with these nifty guns.

Simo decided to sit out on the battle and eat chips instead.

The boys went snorkeling.

Elena and Michael

The lake.

(Duh)

I can't tell you how much fun this is!

Marta and Bunicu.

Simon showing Michael how to fish.

Madalina and Seth.

Eating the blueberries we had picked the day before.

That chair is just the right size--for Seth that is.

We also jumped into the lake off of a rope swing.

It looks a lot scarier than it was.

This was Stephanie about to take the plunge.

Here goes Mom.

Here goes Dad.

Seth decided to sit this one out.
But it won't be long before he'll join us on the rope swing.

A walk to remember

2008-08-03T00:25:00.000-07:00

We took a nice walk around Lackamas Lake today. It was beautiful and relaxing. Seth really enjoys nature. He examines the trees and the waterfalls, and best of all falls asleep from the fresh air. We just love summer around here!

The things I am learning to do at Six Months

2008-07-31T01:24:00.001-07:00

Sometimes when I sit in my crib and play, I get the urge to pull myself up and stand tall! (With a little help from Mom)

I feel like such a big boy when I do that.

I even sit on the potty so that I can get used to it.

With the Grandparents

2008-07-31T01:16:00.000-07:00

The Family

2008-07-21T11:21:00.001-07:00

Whenever we go to outings Seth leaves us and gets passed around to every willing set of arms. We don't mind of course. Lelia Mann is a big fan, and so is Tommy Popescu, who just can't stop kissing Seth.

Seattle Slideshow

2008-07-17T03:40:00.000-07:00

To view the photos in full size, click here:

Seattle for the Fourth of July

2008-07-17T03:15:00.000-07:00

We spent a glorious weekend in Seattle for the 4th of July with Gordon and Ivona, my cousin, and their two little ones, Emily and Jonathan.
After exploring up and down downtown Seattle, (and by down I mean underground),
we discovered the "Discovery Park", a nice place along the beach,
and Baindbridge Island, a charming little island you can reach by a ferry.
Seth had a blast with his little cousin, Jonathan. Emily was as cute as ever, however not so interested in those two silly boys.
We hope that some day Emily and Jonathan will be closer to us here in Portland so we can spend many many more wonderful weekends like this together.

Family Portrait

2008-07-09T22:51:00.000-07:00

We finally have a family portrait, thanks to Ivona.

With Mom and Dad

2008-07-09T22:18:00.001-07:00

Uncle Simon Returns

2008-07-09T21:53:00.000-07:00

Remember when Seth first met uncle Simon?

Well, things have improved between them since that first day.
They get along quite well now!

Sitting up!

2008-07-09T21:36:00.000-07:00

Seth started sitting up less than a week after he turned 5 months old. The world looks so much better from this angle! He can now explore his toys on his very own. It is so exciting!

5 months old

2008-07-09T21:13:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Seth's 5 month birthday by going to a park in downtown Vancouver. Seth loves being outdoors. He studies all the trees, the people and the flowers around him.

Seth is being entertained by his hat.

We stopped to smell the roses.
Seth seemed more interested in eating them.

I am 5 months old, and look what I can do!

2008-06-25T01:54:00.000-07:00

That's right! I can roll over now. Pretty soon Mommy and Daddy will be chasing me all over the house.

Sweet Dreams

2008-06-25T01:47:00.000-07:00

I love my Daddy!

2008-06-25T01:39:00.000-07:00

Giggles

2008-06-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

I took this video in Denver when Seth was in a very good mood (he was getting his diaper changed). But Seth tends to be so fascinated by the camera that whenever I get it out, he stops whatever he was doing to stare and study it, so it is hard to film him in his element.

PS. Don't mind the drool.

Photo shoot

2008-06-21T10:31:00.000-07:00

This morning I had some free time and a happy baby on my hands (a rare coincidence), so I decided to pull out the camera and snap away. If the photos are any good (which I believe they are, if I may say so), it is not because of my skill, it is because of my cute subject. Any way you snap, he turns out like a postcard.

I like my toes!

2008-06-21T00:10:00.001-07:00

I like my toes. I grab them, I play with them, sometimes I even suck on them. The problem is that everyone likes my toes. My parents always tell me that. So when I fall asleep I have to make sure no one takes them away--what would I ever do without my little toes?! So that is why I fall asleep like this:

Starting solids?!

2008-06-20T23:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, our little boy is starting solids. I am getting nostalgic at the thought--where have those days gone when he was a newborn that barely fit in my arms? Ok, ok, there's no reason to get nostalgic yet, I admit, but he is growing faster than I would like. On the other hand it is so terribly exciting when he takes a "baby step" forward (no real steps yet, don't worry).

He is such a good baby that eating solids out of a spoon seems totally natural to him. He didn't cringe, he didn't push away, he just opened his mouth, grabbed my hands and pulled the spoon into his mouth. I am telling you, at this rate I could have 12 more babies just like him. Or maybe not :o)

"I don't know what to think about this new sensation in my mouth"

"More please!"

"Ok, I've decided. I like it!"

"Chomp chomp. Forget the food, I'll just take the spoon!"

Trip to Denver

2008-06-17T12:02:00.000-07:00

Seth and I were fortunate enough to get to go to Denver again to see my parents. Seth did great this time around (last time he had just gotten shots, and he was a bit fussy for the first few days to put it mildly). We had a good time-great weather, great trips...and my parents were happy to see us.

We went on a few beautiful walks in our neighborhood. It is the first time Seth has seen sunshine--or so it seems. So we took full advantage of it.

We also went to the mountains a couple of times. There is no comparison to the mountains in Colorado. No, not even the North West compares. (I know, I'm getting myself in trouble)

Evergreen Lake

Red Rocks

We stopped by a river to rest on our way to Estes Park

I let Seth try out the water with his toes. Apparently he decided it was too cold for him.
Actually he liked it after a few seconds.

At Bear Lake, RMNP

I forgot my shoes in the car, so I hiked in my flip-flops. Unfortunately there was still a lot of snow on the ground. I didn't mind too much, though.

Nymph Lake

We celebrated Father's day.

We also met with some of our friends in Denver.

Barbara our neighbor,

Brandon our neighbor,

My friend Bethany with her baby girl,

and Kent the dog.

I think Seth had a very good time in Denver.

Just look at his smile!

And look at the smiles he gets from everyone around him.
I think this one's gonna be a charmer.

Exersaucer

2008-06-04T12:58:00.001-07:00

Exer-what? I always thought it was a funny name for it. But Seth loves it!!!

We bought him an exersaucer yesterday and he got to try it out today.

He was a bit fussy before I put him in it, but as soon as he sat down, he was mesmerized.

"Wow, so many toys! I don;t know what to do with myself!!"

He started turning the little wheels, and they made a clicking sound which he really liked. He was so intense about it: it took an incredible amount of concentration just to turn the little wheel.

I think he really likes the smiley faces all around.

His toes barely reach the ground, but he can stand up on his tiptoes.

I think we have a winner here!

Mr. Monkey

2008-06-04T12:52:00.000-07:00

Seth got a toy monkey for his four-month Birthday from Grandma and Grandpa Toader. He loves to look into his funny face, and sit in his lap. I guess some day Seth will grow to be as big as his Mr. Monkey, but for now he fits nicely in his lap.

Thank you Grandma and Grandpa!

Seth is Four Months Old

2008-05-30T10:28:00.000-07:00

We are getting lazy with the pictures, I must admit. It is getting to be a chore to pull out our big camera and take snaps of every little progress Seth makes. I say this with shame. I know that years from now I will regret not capturing Seth from every angle and every day.
Seth is four months old now. we can tell a big difference in him: he is starting to take on characteristics of a little boy instead of an infant. When he looks in the mirror and catches a glimpse of himself, he will shyly turn away, then slowly peek at his own reflection again and give himself a sheepish smile. I will sit with him in front of the piano, and amazingly he will start to hit away at the keys (I've already decided he will be a pianist). We also enjoy reading books together. Seth will actually focus on the book and feel it with his fingers, as if he's making up for the fact that he can't read. He will focus on the words and pictures I am pointing to, and has a very interested look on his face. What do you think? Will he read by twelve months? :o)
He is also playing much better with his toys. He will grab a toy and look at it, try to grab it from different sides and even bring it to his mouth. I know that doesn't sound too exciting, but to us parents it's another new step.
Seth loves to smile now, and is just too adorable for words when he does. It is such a pleasure when he's looking around the room, finds Mom's or Dad's face, and break out in a huge smile! There's nothing like it. He's also much more vocal. He will stay awake for longer stretches now, and will be talkative (he's added a few more sounds to his vocabulary). He's a lot better at letting me know he's unhappy without crying. He has also been sleeping very well: he will sleep for 8 hours at night (he started sleeping through the night at 2 1/2 months), and he likes his own crib. He will sit under the mobile and watch it go round and round until he falls asleep. He likes to be swaddled still, but I have a feeling he will soon grow out of it.
As soon as I learn how to post videos I will do so. I mostly wanted to share all these little details so that I can have a record of them. I think I take so many things for granted with Seth, and don't bother capturing them--I know I will miss these little steps as he gets older and wonder why I didn't write about them.

That's all for now. Thanks for listening.

Four Generations

2008-05-14T15:07:00.001-07:00

Bunicul Popescu has lived to see his great grandson, or better said, Seth has had the privilege of seeing his Great Grandfather. There are four generations between the two!

Adrian is the third generation. Grandfather, father and son. This is a precious picture.

Mother's Day

2008-05-14T14:25:00.001-07:00

A brand new Mom with her precious little Baby Boy.

A proud Dad with his Baby Boy

We celebrated Mother's Day at Lelia Mann's house.

There were three mothers there: Marta, Lelia M. and Lelia T. There were also the kids, the husbands, and Valer and Jamie, who aren't parents (yet). Justin was there too-he's in his own category though. Nevertheless, he still has an admirer (look at the last pic).

Playing with Sassy

2008-05-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Seth has a "doll" named Sassy (I know, that's the brand name, but it works). It's just one of the things we use to keep him entertained. He's taken a real liking to Sassy, and is already starting to nibble at her hands (I wonder how she feels about that). Good thing there are no teeth involved yet.

Here's a yawn,

here's a sneeze,

and here are his other favorite toys: his hands.

Our Little Computer Whiz

2008-04-29T23:23:00.001-07:00

Can you believe kids these days?
You'd think they were born in front of a computer.

Take our little Seth for instance.
He is already learning how to use it.

Pretty soon he'll be teaching his Ma and Pa all about the newest software and the latest technological capabilities of desktops and laptops.

I am Three!

2008-04-29T18:54:00.000-07:00

Three months, that is.
And we celebrated by taking Seth on his first hike.
We went to Forest Park in Portland, with Lelia Mann and her girls:
Hannah, Stephanie and Madeline.
Adrian was taking the pictures so he isn't in any of them.

Getting ready for the hike.

Seth likes his Baby Bjorn.

And here's the birthday boy!
He's a big boy now: a whole three months on this earth!

What do you think of all these trees, Seth?

We hiked on a great trail through the forest-
minutes away from downtown Portland!

Madeline picked lots of interesting flowers.

The kids climbed around...

...in Crocs.

We all had a great time.

Our Little Boy

2008-04-22T20:19:00.000-07:00

Check out these cute pictures!

And then some pictures of Seth's delicious little details.

My Favorite Toy

2008-04-22T19:55:00.001-07:00

Seth has taken a real liking to the mobile.

He will stare at it for hours,
smiling to the different pieces as they move by.

Mom and Dad really like this toy too--it gives them some time to themselves!

Having fun with Dad

2008-04-22T18:57:00.001-07:00

Seth meets Uncle Danny

2008-04-22T18:01:00.000-07:00

Seth met his uncle, Danny for the first time here. They both liked each other.

We got together with the family for dinner.

(Seth's Desert)

Everyone took turns holding Seth until he fell asleep.

Seth meets Grandma and Grandpa in Denver

2008-04-22T11:39:00.001-07:00

Click on the slideshow below to view the larger version of the Denver Trip album.

At the end of March our family took a trip to Denver. Nick and Rodica had never met little Seth. We all had a wonderful time together, and Grandma and Grandpa (Bunicul si Bunica) fell in love with Seth from the first glimpse.

Seth also met Kent the dog. He even got to ride him! I am not sure Kent was used to the idea of having someone on his back.

While in Denver we met with many friends, and we took a trip into the mountains. We visited Silver Plume, an old mining town in the mountains. We also went skiing, but we didn't take pictures of that trip.

We had a wonderful time in Denver. We are hoping that the parents move out here to Portland, but for now it is nice to be able to go back and visit such a beautiful place.

I'm Smiling!

2008-03-13T14:53:00.000-07:00

Look at me! I'm smiling now. Aren't I just so cute?

Look what else I can do:

I'm studying the interesting color patters on toys,

and am even playing with them!

I am growing up so fast my parents can't keep up with me!

Seth's Dedication, March 9th

2008-03-11T22:32:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, March 9th, was Seth's dedication at the Romanian church. Adrian's uncle, Anderi preached a nice sermon on being meek as a child when coming to Christ. For the dedication Seth's great grandfather, Aurel Popescu prayed, followed by the pastor, Sebi. Seth's grandparents were there, and lots of people from the family. It was a wonderful time during which we asked God's special blessings and protection over our little Seth, as well as God's guidance in his life. We pray that God would use us as tools in Seth's life, to raise him up to be a man of God.

Our Family

Ligia and Cosmin's Visit

2008-03-08T01:06:00.000-08:00

Click picture to view album

Cosmin and Ligia came to visit us in Portland with their two sons, Alex and Raul. Ligia is my cousin, which makes Alex and Raul Seth's cousins also. We had a great time together with Lelia Mann and her girls. We visited Portland, went shopping, made it to Multnomah Falls before it was totally dark, and had dinner at Lelia's house with Marta, Justin and Bunicu. We are glad that the cousins met each other already, but we'll have to make sure to get together again when they're a little older and can really play together. We look forward to that.

Mommy's little boy

2008-02-29T12:12:00.000-08:00

Sleeping Like a Baby

2008-02-29T12:02:00.001-08:00

I wish I could sleep like this!

An Evening with Mom

2008-02-28T14:16:00.000-08:00

Falling Asleep

2008-02-28T13:40:00.001-08:00

After a hard day's work of eating and playing,

Seth gets a little sleepy.

Since it's so comfortable in Mom's arms,

he falls right to sleep...

and dreams of fair maidens and castles in the sky.

With the Grandparents

2008-02-26T18:05:00.001-08:00

It looks like Seth is going to be very spoiled!

He will get to meet his other set of grandparents at the end of March, Lord willing.

With Mom and Dad

2008-02-22T22:00:00.000-08:00

I just LOVE spending time with my Mom and Dad! They like to hold me too, I think, because they have a hard time putting me down. There's no place like Mommy and Daddy's arms.

A Day in the Life of Seth

2008-02-22T18:00:00.000-08:00

Well, after eating I sleep some.

Then I sleep some more.

After that, I wake up and play with my toys

It doesn't take long before I get sleepy again.

And before you know it I am asleep for another round.

This is the life!

Cute Face

2008-02-22T17:52:00.000-08:00

We love spending time just looking at Seth, and taking pictures of course. He is our little treasure after all.

Funny Face

2008-02-16T13:04:00.001-08:00

We enjoy just watching all the faces that little Seth makes. As he's trying to explore his world, he puts on a great show for his parents. I am sure we'll have plenty more pictures of his funny reactions to the things around him.
Here is a slide show of Seth's funny faces. I will add to it as I capture them.

Seth's Funny Face Album

Seth's First Ten Days

2008-02-05T14:33:00.000-08:00

This is a snippet of Seth's first ten days. It was a wonderful feeling when we welcomed our little bundle into our home. It was quite an adjustment, but we love this new addition to our tiny family. We can't thank God enough for this precious gift.
Click on slideshow to see full size.

Click here to see Seth's Album

Welocme Seth!

2008-02-05T13:44:00.000-08:00

Our precious baby boy was very punctual. He came on the due date! We went to the hospital at 1 am on January 25th, and Seth was born at 8:15am. Everything went well with the delivery, but Seth had a little trouble breathing at first. He spent a day in the intensive care nursery, after which he was pronounced perfectly healthy and ready to go home. We are immensely thankful for this little guy, and for the fact that he is indeed healthy and strong.

Nine Months

2008-02-02T15:51:00.000-08:00

Seth was a very good baby even before he was born. I really enjoyed the nine months he spent inside of me, growing and preparing to meet us outside.

First Ultrasound

2007-09-06T13:34:00.001-07:00

Seth's first ultrasound, at 17 weeks.

Adrian and I both fell in love with him at first sight.

"Seth"-appointed one

2007-09-06T13:24:00.000-07:00

Adrian and I had been looking at names ever since we found out our baby is a boy--with little luck. We looked at today's most popular names, but somehow they were not traditional enough for us. We then looked at Bible names, and most of these names were too traditional...until we came across the name Seth. For both of us, Seth inspired manliness, godliness and purity. It didn't take long to decide on this name for our little bundle of joy, especially after we came up with a diminutive: "Si". Perfect. Our precious baby boy: Seth Toader, little Si.