sisters

Year in Pictures 2011

2011-12-31T13:04:00.001-08:00

Click on image to go to slideshow.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T14:14:00.000-08:00

Hope everybody gets what they asked for : )

A video from Santa

2011-12-16T12:26:00.000-08:00

I love that Kayla still believes in Santa, and that technology has enabled him to send emails to her.

Kristin is kind of on the fence about Santa, and just this morning asked me if Santa was real.

My answer, "Of course he is real. Who gives Daddy all his camera equipment?"

PS, if you want to make a video for your child, or adult, go here: http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/home

You Turkey Head!......

2011-11-24T14:58:00.000-08:00

was taken a bit too literally.

It's that time of year again. Giving Thanks. Here are some of the things Kayla is thankful for:

Me, I am thankful for these two:

Compressed

2011-11-11T15:36:00.000-08:00

Kayla: "Dad, I ate all my lunch today. Are you compressed? Are you?"

Daylight savings has got us all screwed up. Kayla is waking up at 6 AM and sleeping at 8 PM. She's the type that will wake up if she hears a pin drop, and needs to toss and turn and make excuses to not sleep. Kristin is the complete opposite. M-F, we need to drag her out of bed. Tell her to sleep, and you turn around and she's already snoring.

Even though they are complete opposites, they still manage to get along.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T12:18:00.000-07:00

Can't believe it's Halloween already. That means Thanksgiving and Christmas is just around the corner.

We took the kids to pick out some pumpkins at the pumpkin patch, and ended spending 10x more on rides and the jumpy house than we did on pumpkins : (

All worth it for the smiles though.

Hope everyone has a safe and happy Halloween!

9 years

2011-10-26T10:30:00.000-07:00

Today, Selina and I celebrate our 9 year wedding anniversary. After 9 years of marriage, what do we have to show for it? These 2 rambunctious rugrats.

Thanks for the wonderful 9 years, and looking forward to many more to come. This was us 9 years ago, and somewhat more recently.

Image on left © gary ferber. Thanks to Jenny for the image on the right.

Swing for the fences

2011-10-04T09:18:00.000-07:00

Big K turns 8 today. I don't know how to best put into words how amazing it is to see her grow up right before my eyes. I still remember the very first time seeing her amazing little face, and how we had to spend almost everyday going back to the hospital due to jaundice. So much has changed in the past 8 years and through it all, I can still count on Kristin to:

- be an amazing big sister

- love her family

- snore at night

- play with reckless abandon

- being open to trying new things

- having smelly feet

- smile that goofy smile

Happy Birthday Kristin!

I had to dig through the archives to find these, as I don't have any of her baby photos online. Can't believe how much she has changed, yet still looks the same.

It's like a...

2011-09-21T16:39:00.000-07:00

.....hurricane went through our house. This is a typical scenario at the Lee household. Toys, games, and other miscellaneous items flung all over the place. Don't get me started on their clothes that they just randomly plop down where they see fit.

I wonder where they learn this stuff. Sheesh.

Shedding

2011-09-11T13:04:00.000-07:00

me: "Hey Kayla, can I have a kiss?"

She turns and gives me the back of head and pushes it onto my face.

me: "I want to kiss your cheek Kayla, not the back of your head!"

Kayla: "But you are pokey!" (referring to my morning stubble)

me: "I'm not pokey, come on, give me your cheek to kiss."

Kayla: "Why are you not pokey? Did you shed? I'll let you kiss me if you shedded."

When push comes to shove

2011-09-02T15:12:00.000-07:00

Sharing. Lending. Trading. Giving. Whatever you want to call it, they're all the same in this household. A few months ago, Kayla gave this stuffed tiger to Selina and says "This is for you to sleep with! You can have it OK?" Then, the other week it mysteriously disappears from our bed. Last night, after putting them to bed, we hear Kayla crying and Kristin screaming about something so we go investigate. Well apparently Kristin ended up with the tiger, and apparently they 'traded' it with each other. Now trading to me means transfer of goods, a permanent transfer right? Apparently Kayla doesn't think so. To her it means you can take back what you gave/traded at any given time. Selina had to bring up the whole "But you gave it me though!?!?", which further confused things for Kayla. In the end, she won out and got her stuffed tiger, only to wake up this morning looking for another stuffed animal that she probably shared, lent out, traded, or gave to someone. Oy.

If I had one wish, I would wish for....

2011-08-30T22:19:00.000-07:00

Bangs. Bangs?

Kayla brought home an assignment for school which I guess will be used for a presentation of sorts. I didn't have photos handy of an architect so I had to improvise.

Class of 2024

2011-08-24T21:06:00.000-07:00

Sounds weird right? That's what the principal told us when talking about the kindergarten class of 2012. Can't believe Kayla is in 'real' school now. Only 12 more years to go after this year. She actually was pretty nonchalant about the whole thing. Woke her up at 7 am, she rolled around a little bit.

Picked out her outfit for the day.

"Pink goes with pink right?"

Brushed her pearly whites.

Ate a breakfast of cereal bar and boxed milk. We didn't have time to grocery shop after returning from our trip, and our shelves/refrigerator were bare to the bone.

Walked big sis to her 3rd grade class.

Walked back home since her class didn't start until 9 AM, which was actually 10 AM. We didn't get the memo.

Went with mom and dad to get some coffee.

Waited patiently in the car, singing and dancing to Last Friday Night

Went back to school.

Enjoyed a bit of sun before class.

Big kid now.

Teacher spelled her name wrong, had to cross out the 'e' and turn it into an 'a'.

They had a bunch of activities for the kids, kind of like a scavenger hunt of sorts.

Getting her mug shot. This is what happens when you tell her to say CHEEEEEESE.

Oh NO! Looks like she has got the wandering eyes at an early age.

Spelled it right on her cubby.

After spending 45 minutes with her in class, it was time to say bye. She said bye with no drama. Like a boss.

A day in sunny Southern California

2011-08-22T23:56:00.000-07:00

I had a shoot in Southern CA yesterday, and brought the family along for a mini vacation. We spent today visiting Santa Monica, and enjoyed some nice sun, rides, cotton candy, swimming, and that wonderful Southern CA traffic.

First stop was Pacific Park, and of course the kids wanted to ride the ferris wheel. Kayla kept her hands on her hat the whole time, afraid it might blow away or something.

Then on to more rides.

And more.

So amazing how a simple park ride can provide such joy to a child.

What's even more amazing is that they finished a cotton candy in less than 15 seconds.

I swear, they were attacking that cotton candy like piranhas.

I think talking to each other was more fun than this ride was.

Bumper cars!

After Santa Monica, we headed back to the hotel and the kids wanted to swim. In fact, I think that is probably their favorite part of going on vacation. That, and eating on the hotel beds.

Today, you can have your cake...

2011-08-12T09:47:00.000-07:00

And eat it too.

Happy Birthday Kayla Isabel Lee.

Yes, you CAN wear a Christmas hat, and a ballet outfit, and tie your blankie/T-shirt combo to use as a cape. It's your birthday, you can do whatever you want.

If it looks good, eat it!

2011-08-11T18:34:00.000-07:00

We enrolled Kristin in a few summer classes this year, and one of them was cooking. She likes the show Bizarre foods, so now she has an opportunity to make her own bizarre foods. She brought home a few items she made during the week, but off the top of my head, she made cinnamon toast, egg rolls, fried rice, ice cream, lemon frosted donut, smoothies, italian zucchini, fruit salad, and her favorite thing of all.......this jello fruit cup. Of course she was kind enough to share with Kayla.

Seesaw

2011-08-05T14:00:00.000-07:00

I told her to hang on. She didn't listen.

K is for Kayla....

2011-07-23T08:24:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe, but Kayla is about to embark on a new journey that is going to last many many years. She'll be starting Kindergarten in about a month from now. We enrolled her in a kindergarten prep class, fearing the worst, as she has always been hesitant and shy in new environments. On the first day of class, she lined right up and waved good bye to us without a blink. We were both very surprised and sad at the same time. Turns out she had recognized a familiar face from Kristins ballet class, and was actually excited about school.

Ready for Liftoff!

2011-07-04T10:56:00.001-07:00

Kristin is not a big fan of fireworks. This morning, she goes "Umm, I don't like fireworks. I mean, I like watching it, but it's just too loud." Kayla's all ready to go though. She doesn't mind the noise.

Hope everyone has a safe and Happy 4th of July.

Hoppy Fathers Day

2011-06-19T10:00:00.000-07:00

All I wanted for Fathers day was to sleep in.

But instead, check out the SWEET loot I got from the K's.

First off, love this personal letter from Kayla.

Got a red envelope with 52 cents.

She also made this Pilgrim hat for me, with a little tag on it. Dude, it IS the best thing ever!

From Kristin. Makes my heart melt.

Got me a new coffee mug! Awesome!

Hope all the dads out there have a great fathers day!

Dance recital

2011-06-13T17:47:00.000-07:00

This little lady had another dance performance on the weekend. Got all dressed up, make up done, for her 3 minutes of fame on stage.

I can't believe she doesn't have the slightest stage fright, whether it be in the classroom, or on stage. When I was her age, I'd be super nervous when doing anything in front of an audience.

I love her look of concentration on this shot, so serious, lol.

Ur doing it wrong

2011-06-08T15:18:00.000-07:00

Kristin loves to help around the house, especially now that school is almost done. She helps out at dinner and offers to do little chores here and there. Kayla is the complete opposite. She expects us to do everything for her.

It's not always sunshine and rainbows

2011-06-05T20:35:00.000-07:00

Spent Sunday afternoon scraping noodles and bread from the back seat of my car. Someone decided to contract a stomach virus of sorts. She's feeling better now, and no fever, so that's always a good sign.

"Stomach Virus ain't got nothing on me!"

I remember when Kristin was young and had stomach viruses. Not a pretty sight either.

I'm just hoping Kristin doesn't catch whatever Kayla had.

Eating out

2011-06-04T20:43:00.000-07:00

Why? Why is it that every time we go out to eat, a peaceful non-drama filled meal can't be had? It always starts with that mischievous glance, the troublesome glare. Then the physical altercation...a pinch, a shove, a kick.

Then they make up and bust out into song and dance....while.....we.....eat.

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Kayla had her first art exhibition today. She's been in art class for almost a year now, and was asked to select one of her favorite pieces for display, more on that later. She also got to paint her own little square on the classroom floor which I though was neat.

She gets into the zone when she's doing art.

The instructor did a little interview on camera with her, and it was so funny hearing her explain her project.

When she first brought it home, I thought it was an airplane, but there was also another small piece that went with it. Can you guess what it is?

I would have never guessed.....The little separate piece was a fish, yes a fish....that the whale was trying to eat.

If they could have it their way.....

2011-06-02T18:59:00.001-07:00

It would be chocolate syrup for toothpaste.

I don't know what it is, but I think cavities run in the family. I have my fair share of cavities, and I know my mom and dad have a bunch. I'm pretty sure the K's are on their way as well. Kristin already has a few, and supervised flossing and brushing are a regular routine now.

I LOVE SOCCER!

2011-05-25T16:51:00.000-07:00

Kayla: SOCCER?!?! Oh my gosh, I LOVE soccer! MOM, can I go play soccer? CAN I? CAN I?

Mom: Are you sure? You said the same thing about ballet. We signed you up, and you cried for 4 straight classes and eventually we dropped out.

Kayla: No, I love soccer. I'm going to play. Soccer is like my FAVORITE!!! I love soccer!!

Mom: There's a soccer clinic coming up. Maybe you can go try it and see if you like it.

Kayla: OK! I want to go, I want to go!

Kayla: I'm gonna kick the ball like this! Let me show you! (she does this thing where she sucks in her cheeks before kicking and kicks with all her might)

Fast forward to soccer clinic. My wife sends me this picture and texts me "she's totally NOT participating." LOL. She sat there during the whole clinic and didn't want anything to do with soccer.

After coming home, she goes "............can we play soccer?" My wife was not amused.

Kristin is the polar opposite. She's willing to try anything once.

Rolling in the deep

2011-05-22T07:55:00.000-07:00

I love taking the K's on little excursions, no real reason other than to get them outdoors and exploring the space around them.

Kayla is Mommy's girl. Picked these flowers/plants just for her.

In one ear........

2011-05-18T20:41:00.000-07:00

and out the other.

I swear, it's really true. You can ask them to do something one second, and it's like they didn't even hear it.

Luckily there are some things that hold their attention. Piano is one of them:

and this remake of a Katy Perry song from the show Glee.

Mom always said.......

2011-05-08T08:53:00.000-07:00

....never to ride your bike in the house.

These were among many of the things I was told not to do growing up, and for good reason lol. I am thankful for all my mom has done to raise me and my brother. Many of the things I didn't agree with at the time, but now I realize it was for the best.

Happy mothers day to all the moms out there, and of course to my wife, for being a wonderful mom to the 2 K's.

The moment of truth

2011-05-02T11:51:00.000-07:00

You know that feeling?

Biting into a strawberry, not knowing if its going to be sweet or sour.

Getting a shot at the doctors office, the anticipation, that split second where you feel that tiny little pinch.

Then, it's all over. The strawberry was sweet. The pinch wasn't so bad.

Kayla got ears pierced on Saturday. I think she had been hesitant to get it done due to that feeling. I'm glad to report, she handled it like a champ. Not even a wince. So proud of her.

Juggling too many things at once

2011-04-23T07:53:00.000-07:00

It's a constant juggling act. School, piano class, dance class, chinese class, art class, homework, vacations, birthday parties...the list goes on and on. There's always time to make easter eggs though : )

Just add water

2011-04-14T14:30:00.000-07:00

Just like following directions on a cake box right? If life were only that simple.

Today I celebrate 16 years of being together with my wife. Not wedding years, just being together years. Totally different. At least according to her. It's been one heck of a ride, with ups and downs, joy and sorrow, transitions from diapers to underwear. You get the picture.

Tourists

2011-04-03T10:57:00.001-07:00

We spent the day in SF yesterday, being tourists. Even though I grew up and lived in SF, it's nice to visit and do 'touristy' things with the kiddos. We walked up along the different piers and did the Alcatraz tour. When we told the kids we'd be going to visit a prison, they kind of had a worried look on their faces.

No matter where we are, or where we go, the kids love running around without a care in the world.

Kristin really enjoyed the ferry ride over.

Again, with the running.

Interesting fact, there were actually families living on Alcatraz during the time they had prisoners being held there.

Really nice views of the city from "the rock".

The kids didn't particularly enjoy the audio tour portion, lots of worried looks when they did re-enactments of the prisoner audio.

After the tour, Kristin enjoyed one of her favorite snacks, a street churro.

Of course Kayla had to go on the Merry go round in Fishermans Wharf.

I think every First Aid kit should have one of these:

One last view before heading home.

Let your hair down...

2011-03-26T08:50:00.000-07:00

Kristin is at the phase where she is ALWAYS touching her hair in some form or fashion. Wake up, twirl hair. Brush teeth, quietly observe and style her hair. Eat breakfast, twirl hair, get in food. On the way to school, plan on how to tie up her hair. The list goes on and on.

On Saint Patrick's Day, please no...

2011-03-16T22:09:00.000-07:00

drinking and driving. Unless it's milk.

___________________________________________

On a more serious note, our thoughts and prayers go out to the people in Japan. To donate to the American Red Cross, text REDCROSS to 90999; to Salvation Army, text JAPAN to 80888; and to the Save the Children Federation, text JAPAN or TSUNAMI to 20222.

Science experiment of the day

2011-03-04T15:04:00.000-08:00

Kristin is a hoarder. Well both of them actually. They have a tendency to keep everything, from little things they pick up at school (think rocks, leaves, branches, etc) and never want to get rid of them. They end up on the floor, in drawers, and worst of all, in the washing machine. Kristin has had these balloons since her birthday in October of last year. How am I going to get rid of them without her noticing?

Too much TV turns you into....

2011-02-20T00:23:00.000-08:00

We don't let the kiddos watch a lot of TV, maybe 3-4 hours per week. When they do watch TV, they just veg out and don't move during the entire duration. I can see where the term 'couch potatoes' comes from.

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Thanks to Clint Davis for making the new header

bieber fever

2011-02-14T12:22:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day!

Kristin and Kayla enjoy listening to the high pitched, catchy tunes of Justin Bieber. Me, not so much. They also like the young Michael Jackson songs when he with the Jackson 5. When we got this copy of Vanity Fair in the mail, Kayla's eyes opened wide and said "OOHH Justin BEAVER!!!"

____________________________

Kinda off topic, but I started a facebook page here: http://www.facebook.com/kristinandkayla I'll be posting behind the scenes stuff (lighting, setup, before/after shots) there so feel free to add it if you are on facebook : )

Angry Birds

2011-02-03T13:37:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love angry birds?

CAW!

Oink.

and...HAPPY LUNAR NEW YEAR!

Getting old....

2011-01-24T20:11:00.000-08:00

No, not the kids, well yeah, the kids too, but jeez, I feel so old now. Celebrated my birthday this past weekend and took the kids to Tahoe/Reno, and had some fun in the snow.

Always gorgeous, love the snow, hate the cold.

On the morning of my birthday, I see the kids over by the window, making hand prints on the hotel window and drawing things.

Sweetest birthday message ever.

We wanted the kids to learn how to ski this time around, so we took them to Mt. Rose for some ski lessons.

Still taking baby steps on the snow.

All geared up

It was hilarious watching them go up the automatic elevator thing to go down the slope, all crouched over.

I'd say they had a pretty good time.

Year in Pictures 2010

2010-12-31T09:11:00.000-08:00

Another crazy year with two crazy kids.

Happy New Year!

Living in their own little world

2010-12-30T17:46:00.000-08:00

These two kids have a pretty wild imagination, and it seems like they think about candy and sweets a lot. I took them out to a local trail nearby our house and while we were walking, I asked them if they could live on their own planet what would it be like.

Kristin: Our planet would be called Kaykris, otherwise known as Candyland. It would be a purple planet.

Kristin: There would be no bugs.

Kayla: YEAH! Only butterflies.

Kayla: The grass would be purple. The sky is made out of cotton candy and the clouds are made out of marshmallows.

Kristin: Houses would be made out of gingerbread and cars would be made out of gummy bears.

Kristin: I would be the princess, and Kayla would be the Queen.

Kayla: Our clothes would be made out of fruit roll-ups : )

Kristin: If you steal something, you would go to jail.

Sounds like my kind of planet, where can I buy my ticket to Kaykris!

He's gonna find out who has been naughty or nice....

2010-12-24T08:57:00.001-08:00

These two have definitely been a little on the naughty side.

Parents, if you have a naughty child, I suggest making one of these cute vids for your child(ren). Definitely worked on Kristin and Kayla ; )

http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/watch/guest/O5VjZWv3Zk4GcKcugfys4A

http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/watch/guest/-pDcfPQ81My3RtvGXyn2QA

Have a Merry Christmas!!!!

Nutcracker

2010-12-17T17:44:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Kristin has been taking ballet for almost 4 years now. Looking back at old posts, I can't believe how much she as grown.

Recital

2010-12-15T10:30:00.000-08:00

Kristin had her first piano recital last week. She played "We wish you a Merry Christmas" and did a stellar job. Really proud of her. I have to try and figure out how to convert this video we took and upload it. She has never really had stage fright, and that night was no exception. However, it was funny to see her run up to the piano, place her notes on top, play the song, then quickly run off leaving her notes laying there. I had to tell her to go back and grab the sheets.

Pile it on

2010-12-01T17:52:00.000-08:00

Fall/winter is the best time of year for the kids. Thanksgiving, Christmas, presents, and vacations. The kids also love seeing the seasons change, leaves falling on the ground, and best of all, making leaf piles and jumping in.

Thankful

2010-11-25T12:21:00.000-08:00

I thought this was the sweetest thing. While other kids had written they were thankful for toys, games, and other material items, Kayla had written she was thankful for her family.

Some humor for your Thanksgiving day. While listening to Justin Bieber, Kayla asks, is that a girl singing? We explain to her, no, it's a boy. He just hasn't gone through puberty so his voice sounds a little like a girl. Once he goes through puberty, his voice will change and sound more deeper. A few minutes pass by. "Daddy, have you gone through Pilgrim yet, since your voice doesn't sound like a girl?"

Catch of the day

2010-11-24T14:55:00.000-08:00

It's a day early, but hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving!

Mask

2010-11-22T23:24:00.000-08:00

Selina thought it would be a good idea to apply a mud mask on Kayla. She has really dry skin.

"Today I'm a screever and as you can see...

2010-11-02T22:32:00.000-07:00

A screever's an artist of highest degree...

And it's all me own work from me own memory..."

"I draws what I likes and I likes what I drew."

1-UP

2010-10-30T16:08:00.000-07:00

Hope everybody has a safe and Happy Halloween!

Super Mario Sister

2010-10-27T14:08:00.000-07:00

Almost Halloween! Kayla isn't going as Mario this year, I just bought this costume for an idea and I had to take a shot of her.

It's like a......

2010-10-03T23:14:00.000-07:00

Breath of fresh air.

Kristin turns 7 years old today. I'm a little overwhelmed by the fact that she is seven, yes SEVEN years old. My little girl is growing so fast. Please, please, please, slow down.

Since her birthday falls on a weekday, we celebrated with her yesterday, by going to the Exploratorium in San Francisco. I remember visiting the place when I was young, and it was the coolest thing ever. I went back last year for an engagement shoot, and the place is still awesome.

I don't know why, but the kids loved playing with the magnet and iron sand.

Kayla is always up for a snack, especially if its fruit.

Happy 7th Birthday Kiddo.

After school

2010-09-15T13:46:00.000-07:00

After school was always my favorite time of the day. It's probably the same for the 2 K's. Everyday they always want to ride their bikes, or water the garden, or do something other than their homework and shower.

I don't know why Kristin is still riding her bike, that I bought for her 3rd birthday! Training wheels and all.

Always happy to be riding her trike.

"Look Dad, I can balance with no feet!" Yeah, its because you have training wheels supporting you.

Kristin looks so funny with her 'adult' teeth growing in.

I had no idea what Kayla was doing, rustling the bushes with a broomstick. Then I see she was trying to get bugs out of the bushes

Back to school

2010-08-27T09:37:00.000-07:00

Kristin is back to school now, and every day it's a struggle to get her out of bed. We make sure it's lights out by 10pm, but no matter what, during the week she literally needs to be dragged out of bed. Then comes breakfast, which takes her about an hour to eat. Don't get me started on her not drinking milk. Come Saturday and Sunday though, she's up at the crack of dawn, drumming, playing her toy piano, running around, jumping, being as loud as humanly possible.

Farmer's Daughter

2010-08-13T16:13:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Kayla's birthday yesterday and took her to a farm where she could pick her own fruit. She was in absolute heaven. Ever since she was a baby, she's always been a semi-vegetarian, and enjoys eating fruits and vegetables way more than the 'normal' kid. Selina found a few farms, but only one was pesticide free, the Farmer's Daughter Produce in Brentwood, CA. You could literally pick and eat right off the trees. She had a blast.

After the farm, we headed to a new park that just opened near our house. They both spent most of the time on this weird spinning contraption.

Surfed on this skateboard thing...

Kristin is a little more adventurous and climbed this rope structure and did some wall climbing.

Little 4 year old...still can't believe it.

After the park, we headed to Simply Fondue, where Kayla had a little too much fun with the chocolate.

She's such a goofball, just like her big sis.

hap-PIE Birthday

2010-08-12T07:17:00.000-07:00

Little munchkin turns 4 today. I can't believe how quickly they grow : (

This was just 4 years ago.

It's so hot, you could.....

2010-07-15T14:45:00.000-07:00

Kids love summer.

Day off

2010-07-03T15:59:00.001-07:00

For the first time in what seems like ages, I had a Saturday off to just spend with the kiddos. Just the 3 of us. Selina is at work, no shoots, no Chinese school. Awesome. The day started off with breakfast with mom at the local bagel shop. Mom went to work and I took the kiddos to the farmers market. Came back home, and as usual, they run upstairs and wreak havoc. Kristin always seems to be the noisy one.

"WHAT TIME IS IT?????"

"IT'S VUVUZELA TIME!!!! BBBBBBRRRRRRRRRRRRR"

Then she gets ready for her big performance, which always consists of wearing her Fancy Nancy shoes and one of their many princess dresses........

and then scream and sing at the top of her lungs.

Then she starts acts like a monkey.

Kayla is much more of a chillaxing kind of kid.

But she always ends up getting hurt somehow.

And yes, our floor is constantly like it appears below. Strewn with random toys that they strategically place for me to step on : (

I like this drawing board from Ikea, and so do the kids. Makes for a multipurpose learning/drawing tool.

Lunch time! Lunch today consisted of fruit from the farmers market, cheese omelette, and garlic naan.

Kristin is carboholic. She loves breads, any bread, all breads. It's always the first thing she eats, and is always asking for seconds.

Kayla is the vegetarian of the family, loves fruits and veggies.

Hope everyone has a safe and happy 4th : )

I got a new camera for Fathers day!

2010-06-21T10:08:00.000-07:00

Still trying to figure out where the compact flash card and batteries go though.

______________

Kristin is so creative. She made this 'camera' from scratch. Comes with all the necessary parts too : )

Happy Fathers Day!

2010-06-20T14:09:00.000-07:00

To all the dads out there, hoping you're having a wonderful day!

After school

2010-06-15T12:45:00.000-07:00

Kayla has been wanting a new umbrella for a while now, and we finally got her one....too bad its already summertime. At least now she can use it to shade herself from the sun. After school yesterday she had the chance to try it out. She has also become super proficient at riding her tricycle now too. It's so funny watching her pedal full speed ahead. One of these days I'll have to get it on video.

Picture day

2010-06-06T22:22:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again for dance studio pictures. This is the 2nd year that we've done photos through Kristins dance class, and it's always such a pain in the rear. Last year we waited in 100 degree weather, and it was so disorganized........this year was no different.

Kristin doesn't seem to enjoy putting on makeup......

but she really does....

She seems so grown up now, but there's always these small things that remind me that she's still a little girl.

She really liked her fancy new outfit that she gets to wear for the Daddy/Daughter dance.

Sea World

2010-05-21T23:47:00.000-07:00

We're in Southern California this weekend to attend the wedding of my good friend and fellow photographer Mieng Saetia. I'm really looking forward to it since I'll actually be able to enjoy a wedding as a guest rather than a photographer. While we were down here, Selina made arrangements to go visit Sea World in San Diego. The kids are always fans of aquatic life, but they especially love dolphins and killer whales.

Who wants to go to Sea World?

I don't know why, but the kids can never sit still to eat a meal. During breakfast, both kids are either under the table or standing while they eat. I don't get it.

I love seeing the smile on Kaylas face when she gets excited. Kristin is always a goofball.

The kids always have to have a souvenir. They both chose these huge stuffed animals. The killer whale is bigger than Kayla.

Happy Mothers Day

2010-05-09T08:25:00.000-07:00

Roses

2010-05-04T13:49:00.000-07:00

We have a few rose bushes out in front of our house and the kids love them. Unfortunately they seem to bloom and die rather quickly so I pruned a few and brought them in. After looking at this shot, I can't believe its almost as big as Kaylas head.

Feels like summer

2010-04-25T15:12:00.000-07:00

Finally had a weekend off, and had gorgeous weather to boot! It was actually warm enough for the kids to go outside and get sprayed down. It's so awesome that something so simple as water can get kids giggling and laughing hysterically.

Kristin looks like a vampire now with both of her front teeth missing.

Tiger Woods

2010-04-11T19:14:00.000-07:00

Recently heard at the dinner table.

"WHAT IS TIGER WOODS?" pause. "IS THAT A TIGER THAT LIVES IN THE WOODS?"

2010-03-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

Even though we've spent a week in NY, I'm still confused with the subway system. Luckily the kids kept themselves occupied while we got from location to location.

Today we went to Katz delicatessen, known for their pastrami sandwiches. It was pretty delicious, and I'm not a big fan of pastrami.

Afterwards we headed up the street to Sugar, for some sweets.

Kristin took some skating lessons in Rockefeller center. She was having a good time until she fell on her butt.

We ended the day having dinner at Serendipity with Vanessa and Justin, home of the famous Frozen Hot Chocolate.

New York has been such an awesome experience for the kids, and I can't wait to come visit again.

Harry Potter

2010-03-24T22:01:00.000-07:00

Today we headed to Central Park and went on a horse carriage ride. I think Kayla asked me every 2 minutes, "did the horse poop, did the horse poop?"

We also headed to FAO Schwarz, but right next to it was THE apple store. I didn't get to go in, but it was pretty cool seeing the glass structure.

I think Kaylas dream came true when she walked down this aisle of dresses inside FAO.

The absolute BEST part of the day, was going to the Mary Poppins Broadway show. Vanessa and Justin purchased tickets for us, and I think we got some of the best seats in the house. Towards the end, Mary Poppins flew right above us. Pretty awesome. During the intermission, Kayla kept asking, "Where did Harry Potter go?!?!"

We also went to the Toysrus store in Times Square. They have a Ferris wheel INSIDE the store!

I really wanted to buy this lego set.

We also went to the M&M store.

Statue of Liver-ty

2010-03-23T19:54:00.000-07:00

Today we went to see the Statue of Liberty, otherwise known as the "Statue of Liver-ty" to Kayla. The kids enjoyed the boat ride over, the foam crown, and purchasing souvenirs.

Afterwards, we headed to Soho in search of Magnolia Bakery. After walking around for half an hour, we gave up and headed to Rockefeller Center. Kristin will be going back this Thursday for an ice skating lesson, and I'll be skating with Kayla. Hope it stays dry.

Some other random snaps.

Monkey See, Monkey Do

2010-03-22T22:07:00.000-07:00

The kiddos are having a blast in NY. Today, we went to the American Museum of Natural History, Nobu, Toysrus, and Juniors. I'm pooped.

Monkey see. Monkey do.

It rained pretty bad today, and I can safely say, that splashing in rain > museum.

The real reason we're here, was for the engagement shoot of this awesome couple. Check out their photos HERE.

The BIG Apple

2010-03-17T10:42:00.000-07:00

We're heading to New York in a few days, and the kids are super excited. I have to admit, I'm pretty excited too. We've never been on a plane ride together before so I hope they manage ok.

Things Kristin is looking forward to:

Going to Ghiradelli Center (She got Ghiradelli Square and Rockerfeller Center mixed up)

Kayla is looking forward to:

The biggest toy store in the world
Riding on the merry go round in Toyrus

Pippy

2010-03-03T14:16:00.000-08:00

Facebook

2010-02-26T11:42:00.000-08:00

_______________________________________________________________

So, you know how you always tell kids not to do certain things. It's for a good reason right? Remember when your parents told you not to do certain things, but you insisted that you were right and you did it anyways? Well, it turns out that they were right and you probably shouldn't have done it. Perfect case in point.

"Kayla, Kristin, stop jumping on the bed."

Jumping stops.

Jumping resumes a few seconds later.

"Kids, please stop jumping on the bed."

Jumping stops.

Jumping again resumes a few seconds later.

"STOP jumping on the bed. One of you is going to get hurt."

Jumping stops.

Again, they continue to jump.

Next thing you hear is wailing and crying. Yup, told you guys to stop. Bed + Jumping = Fat Lip.

But of course the one who initiated the jumping sequences walks away free of any scrapes or bumps, with that big grin of hers.

Luckily, these bumps are temporary and hopefully she learned her lesson and won't be doing it again. I highly doubt it though.

Happy New Year/Valentines Day

2010-02-14T17:48:00.001-08:00

why so serious

2010-02-04T11:26:00.000-08:00

Kayla doesn't handle change well. She was moved from the "3's" class to the "4's" class this week, and she was definitely not happy about it. I still remember when we first placed her in day care when she was just 18 months old, and I would feel so guilty when I picked her up from school. Her eyes would be red with tears, and her face would be a mixture of sadness and joy when I arrived. She has so much emotion in her for such a little person.

Radio Flyer

2010-01-31T02:58:00.000-08:00

After all this rain, it was nice to finally have a day of sunshine. Kayla realized it wasn't wet outside and asked to ride her tricycle which has been sitting in the garage collecting dust. I still remember riding one of THESE when I was a kid. Good times.

Thank you for......

2010-01-25T11:48:00.000-08:00

I celebrated my birthday this past Saturday and received one of the best gifts ever from Kristin. It was a book titled "FATHER, Thank you for...". In the book were pages where you could write answers to a series of questions on what you were thankful for. I cracked up at some of the responses.

(I think I need to practice more)

(what!!!!!)

Guitar Heroes

2010-01-18T15:57:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone is having a great start to the new year : )

I saw this on a flickr contact's page recently, and I had to share. It's so simple, but I love the theme and the messages it sends: FAMILY RULES.

As the new year begins, I hope to share this with Kristin and Kayla and try to implement them as much as possible.

Year in Pictures 2009

2009-12-31T09:52:00.000-08:00

Another year has gone by, and I end it with some of my favorite images from 2009. Please enjoy the slideshow as much as I enjoyed making the images. Hope everyone has a safe and Happy New Year!

Click above image to be brought to the slideshow, or click HERE.

Eat your dinner

2009-12-30T14:45:00.001-08:00

Typical facial expressions from Kayla when we tell her to finish her dinner.

(and yes, those are rollers in her hair, and a hair net on her head. She wanted curly hair lol)

Run, like no one is watching......

2009-12-26T22:51:00.000-08:00

What I wish to be young again, running around without a care in the world....

Becoming a train conductor on that imaginary train track........

Conquering that mountain.....

even if it's only a few feet high....

Kung Fu fighting against that imaginary opponent....

Chasing after bubbles like they were butterflies......

Having that slight fear of crossing that wobbly bridge...

Imagining a slide as a roller coaster that you never have to wait in line for...

Swinging so high you feel like you can reach the sky.......

Until your parents tell you that it's time to go home......

"Just 5 more minutes!"

Hope everyone got what they wished for from Santa this year : )

He's gonna find out..........

2009-12-23T10:20:00.000-08:00

.......who's been naughty or nice. Unfortunately, these 2 have definitely been naughty this year.

In all seriousness, as Kristin is getting older, she seems to behave a little better (or at least around us). Kayla on the other hand.......you hear of terrible 2's, well she is a terrible 3....x 2. I was hoping that threats of Santa watching her would help, but it hasn't worked so far.

When asked what she wanted from Santa for Christmas this year...Ice Skates. Ice Skates? She has never set foot in a skating rink, let alone seen a skating rink. I wonder where she got that idea from. We couldn't find "play" ice skates, so we got her some roller skates instead, and we'll be taking them iceskating before the end of the year.

When we asked Kristin the same thing...A camel. A stuffed animal camel to be exact. Oh, and some boots like her mom has.

Merry Christmas!

Scoot

2009-11-24T07:41:00.000-08:00

Two years ago, Kristin was riding on her training wheel enabled bicycle: http://kristinandkayla.blogspot.com/2007/08/photo-sharing_24.html Now, she's scooting along on her scooter that she got for her birthday last month. She has grown up so much, and I still can't believe how time just flies.

"You, change your mind, like a girl changes clothes...

2009-11-13T08:14:00.000-08:00

and you have a mess, like a pinch I will know. " That is Katy Perry's song "Hot n Cold" according to Kayla.

listen to her sing:

So the whole family is sick, and Kayla probably got the worst of it but she's recovering nicely now, thanks to Tamiflu.

Yawn

2009-10-31T17:28:00.000-07:00

Almost time to go trick or treating.

Little Red Riding Hoodlums

2009-10-30T07:56:00.001-07:00

I know it's a day early, but Happy Halloween! Be safe!

goofballs

2009-10-12T09:28:00.001-07:00

Kristin is such a goofball. When she is preoccupied with something and you call her name, she always responds with this face:

This weekend was a hectic one. Two back to back birthday parties. One was a farm theme, so this is what Selina came up with as an outfit for Kayla. I drew in the rosy cheeks and freckles with some lipstick and washable marker.

Just a quick update on the books. Océ has generously offered to drop ship the books for me, so I'll be submitting the names and addresses to them shortly. Yay!

Happy Birthday Kristin!

2009-10-04T01:44:00.000-07:00

Kristin turns 6 today. Per her request, we went to Children's Discovery Museum for an early Birthday celebration yesterday. As usual, she was all cheesy smiles when we got there.

I love these little hats.

I love the look of amazement on her face. I think she was playing with the big etch a sketch machine they had.

I forget what these are called, but Kayla was captivated by the running horse.

We are siamese if you please....

2009-09-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

Sharing. It's a difficult concept for these 2 to grasp. I can't just buy one of anything anymore, things are always purchased as a set. If not, I'll never hear the end of it. I need to figure out how to get them to share.

_________________________

Poop.

What is it with kids and their fascination with the word. Kayla has started to use the word in a variety of ways, mainly as an insult. "Poopoo head", "Poopoo Baby", or just "POO!"seems to come out her mouth when she's upset or in an argument with Kristin. She also uses the term in different situations:

Like when she is feeling constipated. "My POO is not working."

After she farts and doesn't have the urge to poo anymore. "Daddy, I'm not Poo-Poo-ish any more."

Books

2009-09-16T15:18:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the overwhelming response to the books. Once I get the books from Océ I''ll go ahead and send them out in the order I received the emails. There is a limited quantity, so if I run out, I'll send something in lieu of the book. Sorry to all the out of country people, but I should have mentioned that I won't be shipping outside of US.

Check out this cool table and chair they made from recycled cardboard (sorry for the iphone pic):

The kids are gonna get a kick out of the table, just not sure how much abuse it can take. I hope they'll be all smiles when they see the book (like after they get face painting).

I'll fly with you

2009-09-14T22:42:00.000-07:00

I'm in Chicago right now, away from the 2 K's. Never thought I'd miss them so much : ( The reason why I'm here? To attend Print09 on behalf of Océ North America. I'll be signing books they produced using text and images from my blog.

They have generously offered to print a few copies for me, so if you'd like a copy of the book, please shoot me an email with your name and shipping address (I'll cover the shipping costs for the first 10 people).

From their press release:

September 8, 2009 – Trumbull, CT– Océ, an international leader in digital document management and delivery, today announced that it will produce a fully-finished full-color book live at Océ Booth 1863 at Print 09. The photo book, "Where's My Birthday Cake?" is being printed on the Océ CS665 Pro color system, showcasing the system's amazing speed and color quality for high-visibility projects like photo books.

The book transforms a photographic web log, created by professional photographer Jason Lee, into a full-color case-bound book featuring his daughters Kristin and Kayla, illustrating how digital book production technology is fueling self-publishing trends that transform digital content like blogs and digital photos into books, creating a high-quality permanent artifact.

Social media experts estimate there are currently some 200 million blogs on the Web, a number that is growing exponentially. Meanwhile, with the ongoing migration from analog to digital photography, people are looking for ways to preserve their digital photographs. In both cases, cost-effective digital color printing enables bloggers and shutterbugs to cost-effectively memorialize their work.

When Jason Lee's mother was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma in 2006 and couldn't spend time with her granddaughters, Lee began snapping pictures of Kristin and Kayla and posting them to a blog to share with his mother. What started as a blog evolved into a more complex personal project documenting the children's growth using a variety of lighting techniques and showcasing Lee's creativity and talent as a photographer.

At Print 09, Océ is transforming Lee's blog into a stunning, full-color case-bound photo book, highlighting the exciting opportunities available to bloggers, self-publishers and photographers who want to publish digital content. "I had always planned on creating an album of the images in my blog to present to my mother," said Lee. "I love the idea of producing a book that transforms something transitory like a blog into something permanent, preserving treasured digital images of Kristin and Kayla in printed form forever," said Lee.

As an industry leader in the fast-developing field of digital book printing and publishing, Océ is demonstrating live production of "Where's My Birthday Cake?" at Print 09. The book is being produced in an automated digital production workflow that produces color interior pages two-up on 12" x 18" paper and color covers on 11.5" x 38" stock on the Fogra-certified Océ CS665 Pro color production system to deliver an unmatched balance of outstanding color quality, speed, throughput and support for a variety of media. The imposition and workflow is managed by Océ PRISMAprepare™ software and the Océ PRISMAsync™ color controller, enabling end-to-end document preparation and production from pre-press to fully finished books, which are case-bound using On Demand Machinery case binders.

A limited edition of "Where's My Birthday Cake?" is being produced at Print 09. The author, Jason Lee, will be in the booth on September 15, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM signing copies of the book. To experience the work of Jason Lee and view more images of his daughters Kristin and Kayla, visit www.kristinandkayla.com.

the 5 year old 1st grader

2009-09-01T21:53:00.000-07:00

Well, actually she'll be turning 6 in about a month. Kristin just finished her first week of school as a first grader. I still can't believe my little girl is in 1st grade already. She started in a different school this year, but luckily some of her friends also transferred to the new school. Instead of a 10 minute drive, we can actually walk her to school now. I'm excited to see how much she'll be learning this year.

You're the best Dad in the whole wide......

2009-08-13T09:51:00.000-07:00

Last year we took Kayla to Six Flags for her birthday. This year, we asked her where she wanted to go, and of course, it was Six Flags....again. So we braved the hot weather for fun day filled with junk food, sunblock, aquatic animals, and kiddie rides.

Kayla isn't particularly fond of roller coaster rides, as evident by the next 2 pictures.

Kristin is another story. She loves these rides.

.....And splashing around in the water area

You can't tell by this picture, but Kayla really enjoyed the water area as well.

She liked it so much, she started doing her happy dance.

After a long day, we had a late dinner and Kayla enjoyed a nice big slice of cheesecake.

After finishing her dessert, she then looked at me and said, "DADDY, DADDY! You are the BEST dad...in the whole...wide...TABLE!" Table? TABLE?

You light up my life

2009-08-12T00:28:00.001-07:00

Kayla turns 3 today. Another year gone, so many memories. I can't believe she's 3 already : (

This is how I still picture her, right after she was born:

Want some whine with that cheese?

2009-07-28T22:44:00.001-07:00

We spent the last couple of days in Yountville CA, where the kids got to see the wine country up close and personal, and Selina and I got to enjoy some R&R. Even though the Wine Country is only an hour away, it was nice to stay someplace other than home. Selina booked 2 nights at the Villagio Inn & Spa, where she enjoyed a relaxing spa treatment while I got to watch the kids. When we go to Napa, we always end up going to the outlet stores, so this was the first time I really got to 'see' Napa. It really is a gorgeous place.

Right outside Villagio, they had their own little vineyard.

The kids enjoyed all the water around the inn.

Our room was right next to the pool.

Kristin got to try on her new goggles.

Kaylas cheeks were too big to fit in the goggles.

When I asked Kristin what her favorite part of the trip was, she replied enthusiastically "SWIMMING!"

Kayla enjoyed the outdoor shower.

Kristin enjoyed the foot washing basin thing they had. I need one of these things at our house.

There weren't many kid friendly things to do in Napa, so we asked the Concierge for suggestions. They told us about Sterling Vineyards which had a gondola ride and a factory tour. While the kids didn't really care for the tour, they definitely liked the ride.

Wine tasting.

Afterwards, we went to Castello di Amorosa, which was a castle/vineyard straight out of the movies. Apparently Disney filmed a portion of Bedtime Stories there.

Today, before we left, we walked around Yountville, and they had a store called "Sisters".

The kiddos, dreaming about someday being able to wear a wedding dress.

it's like pulling teeth

2009-07-24T14:10:00.000-07:00

Kristin lost her first tooth a few weeks back. It had been loose for the longest time, and another tooth had begun to grow behind it. We brought her to our dentist, and were told that it would eventually come out on it's own. One day, while Kristin was blowing up a balloon, I tugged at the balloon and Kristin started complaining about her tooth hurting. She was really mad at me for pulling the balloon out of her mouth : (

The next morning, the tooth came out and she had forgotten all about being mad, since she knew the 'tooth fairy' was coming to give her some money. I hope the next tooth comes out without so much drama.

Day at the beach

2009-07-12T22:56:00.000-07:00

The kids have been bugging us about going to the beach for weeks now, and we finally gave in, even though the weather wasn't exactly ideal.

Kristin was only interested in collecting sea shells.

We then headed to another beach, where they started kicking up sand. Sand got everywhere....in their hair, all over their clothes, in my pockets, in their pockets...

my camera gear......

After all that sand kicking, they sat down and enjoyed their first sunset.

Even though they always fight........

2009-07-03T16:48:00.001-07:00

Even though they always fight........, originally uploaded by jwlphotography.

things always get ironed out in the end.

It seems as they get older, the more they fight and argue with each other. It can be over the smallest things, but they make the biggest deal out of everything. For example, we will be driving somewhere and Kristin looks outside Kaylas window. Kayla will then proceed to yell at Kristin, "THAT'S MY WINDOW. LOOK OUT YOUR OWN WINDOW! DAD!!!! KRISTIN IS LOOKING OUT MY WINDOW!!" Then a few minutes later I hear Kristin crying because Kayla has pinched, punched, kicked, or a combination of all three things to her. Then I will hear Kayla crying a few minutes later because Kristin is blocking her view of the opposite window. It's a never ending cycle.