The boys at Idlewild Park

A couple of weeks ago, Amanda was able to take the boys along with some friends to Idlewild Park.

Who does your hair?!

"I'd like to say hello to my adoring public."

Benjamin concentrating on the task at hand.

"Sammy, trust me... I'm supposed to have both steering wheels."

All Grown Up

We were in Philadelphia a couple of weekends ago to visit with my (Phil's) family.
Our boys and their cousins (my sister's boys) were dressed up for my father's birthday party.
They look so grown up.

Sammy says, "You guys wait right here, I have to go serve my tables."

"Time to par-tay."

Bye bye Pap-Pap, we love you.

On Sunday, March 9, 2008, our Pap-Pap went home to be with the Lord. These are some pictures of Pap-Pap with those he loved more than anyone else in the world. We also wanted to thank our friends and family who have been for praying for us during this difficult time.

~Phil, Amanda, Benjamin, & Sammy

Happy 1st Birthday Sammy!!!

On January 27th, 2008 our little Sammy magically turned into a one year old. We had a birthday party for the biggie boy with: Mom, Dad, Benjamin, Nina, Grandad, Mimi, Cody, and one big cake.

Amanda slaved for hours making this "one" shaped cake. In fact after working so hard to make it, we decided that no one could eat it. So after hours of admiration we realized it wouldn't fit in the fridge, so we just threw it out. We have a picture to prove it was made.

Sammy about to blow out the candle.

This is traditional Korean garb for the first birtday. It's called a "Han Bok". It's a little big on him, but we think it's quite adorable. Yes, there's a shirt that goes with it. Read on.

Here is the outfit in its entirety, however the hat is not supposed to be over the eyes. That's just Sammy's own personal flair. Gangsta.

Update on the boys:

We wanted to give you an update on what Benjamin and Samuel are into: Benjamin really loves Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood. He imitates his intro and exit songs. When he really gets into it, he decides (b/w Mommy, Sammy, and himself) who will be Mr. McFeely, who will be Mr. Rogers, and who will be the trolley.

One episode of Mr. Rogers was with Yo Yo Ma (the famous cellist), and Benjamin loved it! He now wants to play the cello everyday. Mommy made his first cello out of an empty gift wrap roll. And we told him that as soon as he can read and write in 4 different languages he can have his own cello. We're trying to promote education over the arts.

Sammy's favorite position to play is IN the basket. He loves just squatting down and playing in there. He's our little baby Moses. Most people incorporate their children into Christmas and Nativity scenes. We prefer Old Testament.

world's smallest biped.

Sammy started walking in mid-December. He now chases his brother around, usually squealing with delight. Walking is definitely his preferred mode of transportation. He loves playing with his brother. He imitates everything Benjamin does. He has also learned to feed himself, and just today he started using his fork!

AND NOW... Here he is... (drumroll)... the world's smallest biped.

Balancing is the toughest part.

And he is off.

Hands up the whole time. :)

Merry Christmas!

Our very first Christmas with Sammy home!
We had a fantastic time visiting with family.

By the tree in Nina, Cookie, and Mimi's house.

One of the hit gifts for Benjamin. His very own rock star drum set.

This is him throwing his sticks out to his fans.

Sammy (roadie) was attempting a stage dive.