The Wright Blog

Cassia's Christmas Concert

2011-12-15T14:56:00.000-08:00

11 Months?!

2011-06-30T22:22:00.000-07:00

11 months, almost a year old - WOW!

Micah crawling {Video}

2011-06-06T23:40:00.000-07:00

Here it is, I finally got around to making this!

How to Crawl from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

10 months

2011-05-24T17:05:00.001-07:00

Yep, 10 months has come and gone. It feels a lot closer to one than I am happy to admit!

Cassia is settling in well, and making crazy new friends! Yep, she is being pushed in a dolls stroller at a million miles an hour up and down our house!

Where are we?

2011-05-08T02:14:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to put a quick post up to let anyone who hasn't heard from us in a while know why...

We are living in a great new home, in such a new neighbourhood that our internet connection/phone line is non existent. For now we have a mobile modem but we are trying not to use it too much as it is very expensive!

We are all doing well, and have been doing a better job updating our other blog www.wrightfamily.blog.com

Micah is now 9 months, has 8 teeth (more on the way), eats almost everything (but is allergic to eggs) and is waving, clapping, talking and a very happy boy.
Cassia has started a 3 year old program twice a week and is loving it. She made her first Mother's Day present for me this week, a frame with a picture of us and a bookmark that had a drawing of me and said "I love Mummy because she is beautiful, I help her with Micah". Priceless!

Cassia sings! from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

Thanks for reading, feel free to send us a quick email if you have time!

7 months and the beach

2011-02-25T02:59:00.000-08:00

Here is Micah's 7 month photo - complete with 3 teeth!

Today we went to the beach for the first time in a long time, it was great to be outside, enjoy the weather, and seize the days, enjoying the time with my Mum before we head down to Melbourne, hopefully soon.

Ministry news is at www.wrightfamily.blog.com - cute pictures of the kids will continue to appear here!!

6 months (already?!)

2011-01-27T22:43:00.001-08:00

Here is Micah's six month photo, I have decided he is growing, the bear is not shrinking!
He is now sitting up (for a few seconds at a time!), and weighs 6.88kg (15.1lbs). He is doing great, and has packed his little suitcase ready for his first plane ride in two weeks time.

Cassia is also doing wonderfully and turns 3 on Sunday! We celebrated her birthday with family a little early so Uncle Jeremy could be here, and we could pack up some of the bigger presents before the movers came. All she wanted was a ladybug cake.

I also got to celebrate with her today by taking her and her best friend Shiloh to tea! It was so sweet to see the girls behaving so well, and enjoying their tea party!

Remember we are also blogging about ministry over at wrightfamily.blog.com, this blog will be kept for family pictures and news!

Preparation

2011-01-16T22:23:00.001-08:00

The movers are coming Tuesday, and as you can imagine there is a lot going on at the Wright house!

Until there is more time to write, and share a few photos from Cassia's early birthday celebration check out our new family blog which will keep you up to date with news as we head off to Melbourne.

www.wrightfamily.blog.com

Micah's first food

2011-01-06T21:54:00.000-08:00

We were planning on waiting as long as possible to start Micah on solids... but he seemed ready, and so we busted out the rice cereal.

Things started well, he was really into the bib...

He assumed the position...

Then things went downhill...

And this pretty much sums up Micah's feelings about rice cereal.

I am giving up on rice cereal for now... on to apples!

Merry Christmas & Moving News

2010-12-24T22:32:00.000-08:00

Due to environmental and economic considerations the Wright family did not send a Christmas card this year... okay the truth is we got busy, really busy planning our move back to Australia in February 2011.

We will be headed to Melbourne where Jason will assist at Calvary Chapel Melbourne. We are excited about this next stage in our lives, and while the thought of moving with a 3 year old and a baby is somewhat overwhelming the encouragement from family, friends and our church has been amazing.

More news will follow including a new blog which will keep you up to date with ministry news, to keep you going until then here is a family photo our amazing friend, and gifted photographer Bobby Brown took.

5 months

2010-12-22T21:17:00.000-08:00

Another full month in the life of Micah, which included his first two teeth... can you tell?

Visiting the lights

2010-12-13T19:12:00.000-08:00

Post op update

2010-12-10T16:30:00.001-08:00

Micah before surgery wearing a gown that was about ten times to big for him.

Hi everyone, I wanted to give you a quick update and let you know that Micah's surgery went well, and he is doing well!

During all this he decided to get his first tooth, very closely followed by his second. I figure the timing was kind of great since we was so hopped up on pain killers he hardly noticed!

Teeth!!

I finally feel like I can change gears and start preparing for Christmas now, so I started with some baking today, and am finishing off the last of our Christmas shopping.

Thank you all for your prayers for our family! We really appreciate them, and know beyond a shadow of a doubt that they work!

4 months - Surgery next Monday.

2010-11-29T21:34:00.000-08:00

Micah is now 4 months and getting the hang of this photo with the bear thing... he humors me for a couple of shots, and then tries to eat his bear.

In Micah news he is now rolling over, although he doesn't like being on his tummy, so it makes me wonder why he insists on rolling there every time we put him down. Maybe because he gets coaching from his sister along the lines of "You can do it! Good job little buddy".

I debated sharing this next piece of news on such a public forum, but we need all the prayers we can get. Micah will be undergoing surgery next Monday, December 6 at 7.30am. He will be having an outpatient procedure at CHOC to correct a minor birth defect. I will spare you the medical explanation, lets just say his pee hole is not quite right. The defect, and surgery to fix it is relatively common, but that does not make it easier to picture Micah being taken and put under anesthesia, or what his recovery may be like.
Please keep us all in prayer during this time. Micah for all aspects of surgery from pre-op (not being able to eat for 5 hours prior to surgery), anesthesia, surgery, post-op, recovery and how this all will affect his sleep. For Cassia to understand the extra time and care Micah will need. For us (especially Me) to have calm hearts.

Thanks everyone, I will be updating my status on facebook throughout the day on Monday to keep you posted on how Micah is doing.

3 month photo

2010-10-21T21:34:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-16T13:56:00.000-07:00

Going to the pumpkin patch is one of my favorite things to do as a family, we never actually buy a pumpkin there, but the bright orange pumpkins make a great backdrop for pictures! I also like pretending we live somewhere with seasons...

I had a hard time choosing just a few pictures to share, so instead I decided to post an album which you can see here (even if you don't have facebook):

PUMPKIN PATCH ALBUM

It came and went...

2010-10-11T22:49:00.000-07:00

I am ashamed to say that Micah's two month birthday, and two month pediatrician appointment came and went without me posting! I also realized when he rolled over for the first time today that I had not shot or posted any video of him!! I am a bad Mother!!

Anyway, I immediately got the video camera out, and am working on getting something together this week, for now enjoy the pictures below.

And for those keeping track Micah weighed 12lbs 4oz, is a very long 25" and is planning on overtaking his older cousin Liam any day now.

On another note - is anyone reading this blog? Or are you just seeing these posts on Facebook? I don't want to keep posting if there isn't anyone out there! Leave me a comment if you are reading!!

After a family picnic -- we wore them both out!

Micah with his bear - I am going to try and take a photo with this bear every month for the first year.

Cassia and Micah all dressed up for a fun date with Mum while Dad was away for the weekend

Picnic at the park

2010-09-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

We have been busy with our two little ones (although the littlest is rapidly growing and I have just discovered is too tall for his outfits with feet!!).

Even though life is busy we make sure to take time to do unexpected things. We decided to have a picnic dinner the other night, and I had already started making dinner - spaghetti, so it became a spaghetti picnic, not exactly a neat and tidy dinner, but we all had a great time!

Grannie interviews Cassia

2010-08-24T11:18:00.000-07:00

Grannie sat Cassia down for a hard hitting interview this week... here are the results:

Grannie interviews Cassia from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

Family of four

2010-08-19T16:56:00.000-07:00

As you can imagine (or have experienced) the addition of another child makes life just that little bit busier, which is my excuse for not posting any updates!

We have been so fortunate to have my parents visiting us, right now they are in San Francisco actually having a few days vacation (Cassia has had them on the run and I think they will need a vacation to recover from their visit with her!)

Micah is doing really well, he is a great little baby, and Cassia is the president of his fan club.

We had Micah dedicated at church last Sunday and here is the video.

Dedication from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

Micah Judah Wright

2010-07-23T21:01:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to announce that Micah Judah Wright made his entry into this world 2 weeks early at 8.30am on Thursday, July 22. He was 6lbs 13oz and 19 3/4 inches long.

We are all home, doing really well and Cassia is an amazing big sister!

Jam Session

2010-07-17T21:20:00.000-07:00

Cassia's Jam Session from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

Photos from June...

2010-07-08T18:21:00.000-07:00

I just realized that I have not updated this for a really really long time!

I really don't have an excuse, life is always busy, I guess I just feel like won't have real news until our baby is born (a little less than a month to go). Cassia is getting very excited to meet her brother, and told my tummy this morning "Come out now baby brother."

Until he arrives (when there are sure to be lots of pictures) here are a few from the last couple of months.

Cassia wearing Daddy's work hat.

At the park.

First time in the pool this summer.

Happy girl!

ABC's...

2010-05-04T16:41:00.000-07:00

Cassia sings her ABC's from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

Cakes, cupcakes, and Cassia...

2010-04-20T20:23:00.000-07:00

Thought I would share a few pictures of a cake and cupcakes I made for a friends baby shower last weekend, and of course a couple of Cassia, who is getting ready for her role as a big sister - she has potty trained, given the baby a nickname (Mimi) and told me that she wants to buy him a blanket.

Cassia is developing even more verbal skills every day, and is quite adept and speaking her mind! She amuses us with her constant singing and dancing, in fact she is quite the songwriter and will sing about anything that is happening around her.

It's a...

2010-03-09T09:22:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Grandma! {Video}

2010-03-03T16:09:00.000-08:00

Grandma's birthday was on Sunday, and the family made a special video to celebrate - here is Cassia's contribution!

7 Shades of Red

2010-02-10T17:32:00.000-08:00

I was tagged by my friend Nicole for this post. The instructions were to showcase 7 photos showing red around the home.

In no particular order...

1. A package of my favorite german Gummie Bears - although there are now a few less than when this photo was taken. And actually the white ones not the red ones are my #1 pick.

2. A card from Cassia's recent birthday festivities

3. My beloved Macbook

4. Pretty much every kitchen utensil in my drawers

5. A jar candle that is almost done, which I am very sad about because they don't make this kind any more.

6. Cassia's magna doodle

7. A warm throw that has been my companion in this cold weather

Since not too many of you actually blog I won't tag anyone, but if you feel inspired be sure to share your shades of red with me.

Cassia's Second Birthday!

2010-01-31T19:17:00.001-08:00

We are now parents of a two year old! It is hard to believe that our baby isn't a baby anymore! So to remedy the situation we are having another baby - due in August.

Here are some photos of Cassia's second birthday.

Our big 2 year old - who joined in with singing "Happy Birthday" to herself

Blowing out the candle

Entertaining her friends

Blowing bubbles with friends

At Disneyland with Mummy and Daddy

Still having fun after a big day at Disneyland

Future driver

Opening presents

Sitting at her new table - thanks Gran and Poppa

A close up of the Australian Women's Weekly Rabbit Cake - the tradition lives on :)

Cassia sings - video

2010-01-19T17:01:00.000-08:00

Cassia singing! from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

Christmas, Australia etc.

2010-01-09T02:31:00.000-08:00

I know I have been remiss not writing a blog for a long time, or even posting photos! Sorry!

We have had a busy few months, celebrating Thanksgiving in the US, Jason then went to Israel for two weeks at the start of December, and right now we are in Australia!

We have been loving our visit with family, and enjoying every minute of our relaxing time and taking full advantage of Gran and Poppa!

We are not sure what 2010 holds in store for us, so watch this space! It has been a great start to the year so far.

4 Generations!

Christmas in America

Christmas in Australia

Photos!

2009-12-03T18:14:00.001-08:00

It has been a while since I blogged, so here are some pictures from the last month.

Halloween - we went to a church carnival and Cassia was a chef.
Me scraping the texture off our ceiling.

A family photo as Jason was leaving for Israel.

Too cute not to share

2009-10-27T21:24:00.001-07:00

I decided that this picture was too cute not to share, Cassia didn't even make it through dinner without falling asleep after a very fun play date with her friend Shiloh.

Yes, that is ketchup on her face, and an apple in her hand -- try it sometime :)

Staycation

2009-10-12T15:21:00.000-07:00

Here are a few photos from our family 'stay'cation.

We went to Mission San Juan Capistrano for a day and enjoyed the pretty flowers and butterflies.

Pumpkin Patch

2009-09-29T09:51:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Patch from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

Cassia's first shoe love...

2009-09-03T14:03:00.001-07:00

A good pair of shoes is the only accessory a girl needs...

They make you so happy you do a little dance...

But after all that dancing...

You realize that great shoes give you blisters...

Cassia Cleans (Video)

2009-08-20T09:06:00.001-07:00

Cassia - how to clean. from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

Cassia walks (video)

2009-08-14T21:38:00.000-07:00

Cassia Walks from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

18 months!

2009-08-07T15:31:00.000-07:00

Cassia had her 18 month check up today. She is 20lbs and 20z (5th percentile) and finally able to turn her car seat around and see out the front window!

She got a pair of sunglasses and a toy shark for being so brave at the Doctor's (her new word of the day).

She is also walking (tentatively) - video to come!

Video - Cassia

2009-07-08T16:04:00.000-07:00

Cassia says Cassia from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

WOW! New house.

2009-07-06T11:32:00.001-07:00

Sorry it has been so long since my last post, I have started getting comments about my lack of blogging, so here you go!

We have had an absolutely full month since I last wrote. We made an offer on a condo and were successful, and had a very quick 30 day escrow (settlement for you Aussies), so we are now moved in! There has been some minor work to get it a little more to our tastes, but overall it is very livable. I posted photos to my flickr account, because there were just too many to put up here. If you cannot see them for some reason let me know.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/emmawright/sets/72157621047977048/

Hopefully I can get some post move in photos up soon - for now, here is one of Cassia! As you can see the move was exhausting :)

I've been busy!

2009-05-23T16:14:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone,

We have been having a great time with Gran and Poppa. Poppa went home last weekend, but Gran stayed behind for a little longer to get in some extra cuddles.

Here are a few pictures from the last two weeks.

Playing on the couch with Poppa - a set of keys and a cup will keep Cassia going for hours!

With Curious George - it took Cassia a while to warm up to him...

She still wasn't quite sure about the giant monkey - I think she was wondering where his tail was!

Eating yummies with Gran

At a baseball game

A quick update

2009-05-05T20:05:00.000-07:00

Hello admirerers,

My Gran and Poppa are on a plane to come and visit me right now. I plan on keeping them really busy for the next few weeks, so I probably wont have too much time to write about my adventures, but I will try.

Also, my Mummy and Daddy are trying to buy me a condo right now, so I will keep you posted on that when I scribble on the dotted line.

To keep you going here is a little photo of me.

xoxo Cassia

Boogie Baby

2009-04-21T15:35:00.000-07:00

As you all know, Cassia has great dance moves -- here are some of her latest.

Untitled from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

Party animal and a Mac

2009-04-06T14:29:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I wrote anything! We have been busy.

Last weekend was a surprise party for my father-in-law Peter's 50th birthday! Here is a photo of Cassia all dressed up for the party. (note the piggie tails!)

As well as that we have been having some computer issues, and have finally made the switch to Mac, replacing our virus ridden PC. So far, so good... I am still finding my way around, so if anyone is fluent in Mac and wants to help out - let me know!

I have also been busy posting for Gidget Goes Home once a week - go on over here to check it out.

One more picture to keep you going :) and a video too!

Untitled from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

Park Play

2009-03-15T11:48:00.000-07:00

Cassia really loves being outside, and we now live nice and close to a park that has pint sized play equipment, perfect for her.

Here are a couple of photos I took of her this week... the swing is her favorite, and the slide is a close second.

She has also decided she likes driving... here is a photo of her on a little car at a friend's birthday party, it didn't take her too long to work out how to drive herself around and wave to her fans at the same time :)

More blogging

2009-02-24T15:16:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone,

I am starting a new venture in blogging!

I will be guest blogging at Gidget Goes Home once a week starting next Monday. My column will feature some tried and true recipes, kitchen tips, and other tidbits I find interesting!

Here is a sneak peek of my first recipe which will be live next Monday.

I encourage you to check it out, and keep your eyes peeled for a fun giveaway coming up soon!

Emma

Stair Climbing Baby

2009-02-16T15:55:00.001-08:00

Stair Climbing from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T12:39:00.000-08:00

Dancey Dance

2009-02-06T15:08:00.001-08:00

Cassia dances from Emma Wright on Vimeo.

The big ONE!

2009-02-02T09:58:00.001-08:00

Yes, Cassia is now one! I cannot quite believe how quickly time flies, but after her party yesterday it hit me that I have a toddler...

Here are a few (okay a lot) photos of her birthday, and her party.

Opening Presents

This is FUN!
A family photo before dinner.
All dressed up waiting for dinner
Yummy - Old Spaghetti Factory for dinner!

My Party....

Look at my butterfly cake!

Tasting my cake (I was very dainty) Now a big bite!
More presents? I am spoiled!!!

My friends had fun!
I wore some of them out!

It was the best birthday ever!
Thank you every one for helping us celebrate Cassia's first birthday! We had a wonderful day, and are so blessed with friends and family, near and far, who love our little girl so much!

Koalas and monkeys and turtles, oh my

2009-01-19T11:36:00.000-08:00

Last week Cassia and I went to San Diego zoo with our friends Nicole and Gigi!

It was so much fun!

They had a special Australian exhibit, so we got to see Koalas!

Apparently this is how they think we dress in Australia... but to be fair they played the 'Burke's Backyard' theme song, so they had done some research.

And this is adoreable Gigi after she had petted some sheep and goats... she is really good at doing the animal sounds, and even knows that Koala's aren't bears.

Christmas Video

2009-01-02T21:56:00.000-08:00

In her eyes...

2008-12-27T23:30:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Cassia's first Christmas this year, and gained fresh excitement!

Not only did we start some new traditions, but we kept up some from our respective families...

We enacted the 'country of origin' rule (which I made up a few years ago). It states that a present may be opened when it is Christmas in the country the present originated in... or the gift giver lives... or any other stretch which I decide... which means that on Christmas Eve in the US it is already Christmas in Australia, so there is an early present!

We set up our webcam, and had Mum and Dad (Gran and Poppa) set theirs up, and they got to see Cassia open her very first Christmas present - a Fisher Price Zebra.

We also gave Cassia a new pair of PJ's to wear to bed on Christmas Eve, which I think might be a tradition to continue.

In the morning we started the day by reading from the Bible - remembering what we were celebrating.

We then shared the excitement of giving and receiving gifts... I received the most awesome gift - a digital SLR camera, from Jason, my parents, and his parents! No more time delay in which I miss the money shot!

After that we went to Jason's parents house, shared in worship, reading from Luke, and communion... and then more presents! We are spoiled!

Cassia got a great piano from them, and she is now all set up next to Daddy's keyboard so she can jam with him. She already has awesome rhythm... although I don't really think I want a drummer in the house!

We went to see a movie in the afternoon (a Wright family tradition), Bedtime Stories with Adam Sandler - happy to say it was really funny, and good and clean!

We hope your Christmas was as special as ours, and that you enjoyed the photos... now I have my new camera there is no stopping me!!!

Cassia's Christmas Photo

2008-12-17T17:24:00.001-08:00

Here is a long awaited photo of Cassia at our Ministry Team Dinner last week.

Christmas preparations

2008-12-11T15:34:00.000-08:00

It is the busy season in our lives, and although I am no longer working (in a "real" job) I have found myself busier this year than ever before!

This past week I helped organize our church women's christmas dinner. This was a dinner for 120+ people which we held at a local golf course. We seem to have a way at our church of making these events super detailed, and super special, which is awesome - but so time consuming!

The theme was the sweetness of the Lord, and we had candy (lollies!) everywhere.

The next big event was our ministry team dinner which was held at our church, but of course had all those lovely details we love! It was a holly, ivy, traditional christmas theme. Catered by Maggiano's. One of the great things about this dinner is the professional photographer who comes out and takes photos of our church families. Hopefully I will have some of those to post soon.

And then yesterday we had the annual Estrada family Christmas party! Here is Cassia preparing a meal for us to eat - we are teaching her young.

Then today I got together with some friends to bake cookies! It really is the busy season - but things like these, family gatherings, cookie baking and quality time are the things I know we will remember in the future, and the traditions Cassia will love!

I hope all your Christmas preparations are as fun as ours!

This just never gets old...

2008-12-05T18:09:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Dancing baby

2008-11-19T19:29:00.000-08:00

Wow, two posts in two days... can you tell Jason is away and we are lonely?

Mail call...

2008-11-18T17:39:00.001-08:00

MAIL FOR ME!!! HOW DO I GET IN THERE?

WHAAAT? I CAN'T OPEN IT YET?

POPPA SAYS IF YOU SHAKE THEM SOMETIMES YOU CAN TELL WHAT'S INSIDE!

Thanks for the mail Gran and Poppa, I can't wait to open it... they don't call me curious Cassia for nothing!

Cassia's first...

2008-11-14T10:35:00.001-08:00

Here are some photos of Cassia on Halloween. We do not celebrate Halloween in the traditional sense, but we went to a local church, who had a fair set up with games, and even fun things for the babies!

In case you cannot tell, she is a Koala... I made the pink legwarmers so people wouldn't think she was a boy!

Things have been really busy here, as we gear up for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and all the activities that our church put on around this time. I am sure there will be photos soon!

Three quarters of a year!

2008-10-30T13:51:00.000-07:00

Cassia is 9 months old today!

She had her well check yesterday and is now 16lbs and 27inches.

The flood gates have opened for 'real' food too, so she had some chicken yesterday... no more vegetarian baby!

Here are some pictures from the last few days.

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-16T19:34:00.000-07:00

New place

2008-10-09T19:29:00.000-07:00

Here is a video of our new place, we wanted to show you what it looks like, and entice you to come and visit us!

Just to keep you going...

2008-10-02T22:34:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, we just moved into a bigger apartment... so blogging has not been high on my list of priorities!

So, just to keep you going, until I can take some decent pictures of our apartment and amuse you with some witty annicdotes here is a picture of my beautiful 8 month old koala!

Video's galore!!!

2008-09-16T19:35:00.000-07:00

Three videos for your viewing pleasure -- trust me they are all worth the minute it will take to watch them!

Win a purse...

2008-09-15T11:01:00.000-07:00

I am trying to win a purse at http://www.aordinarylife.com/ and am posting about this competition so you can try too!

Carrots

2008-09-02T22:34:00.001-07:00

This is what happens when you let your 7 month old take the spoon during a carrot and squash dinner...

And this is a photo of Cassia wearing her jean skirt so she could match Misty.

A tourist in my own city...

2008-08-27T23:27:00.000-07:00

I have spent a very fun week being a host to my good friend from Australia, Misty.

We had a great time... some highlights included Disneyland, shopping (South Coast Plaza, Rodeo Drive etc.) eating lots of free chocolate samples wherever we went, and a visit to Sprinkles Cupcakes in Beverly Hills (something I have wanted to do for a while but haven't been able to justify the hour drive to do!).

Here are a few photos of our fun adventures...

Cassia is enjoying her first monorail ride at Disneyland... the necklace and bracelet I am wearing are Teething Bling - jewelery that looks good but is actually made of teething material... yes Cassia is getting her first tooth.

This is Misty and I before going on the rapids ride at Disneyland - we were a little wetter 5 minutes later.

And this is us sneaking a photo with Mickey even though he was supposed to be going on a break (hence the conspiratorial smiles) - we are rebels!

Robeez...

2008-08-25T10:19:00.000-07:00

These are my favorite baby shoes ever, they actually stay on!

If you are a blogger and would like to win some click here.

My little Olympic Gold Medalist...

2008-08-21T15:40:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo of Cassia wearing her own version of an Olympic wrestling outfit... actually it was an outfit that I once wore and my Mum saved!

And if she doesn't make it in wrestling there is always something that involves flexibility like gymnastics or trampolining...

Video proof - Cassia says 'Dada'

2008-08-12T19:42:00.000-07:00

Camping, Surfing and first word...

2008-08-10T20:03:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update from the Wright house!

Jason and I spent last week down at San Onofre state beach camping with the youth group. Camp went really well and everyone seemed to have a great time.

Cassia and I were down there for part of the week and managed to accomplish some firsts... I went surfing for the first time. One of the other Pastor's, Bryan, took me out on a 10ft board and I managed to get up! It was really fun and I can now totally understand why surfing is so addicting!
Cassia also had a first, she ate sand. Yummo. My little human food (and non food) disposal thought it was pretty good. Oh dear. Apart from that we have added green beans and carrots to the menu and there are big plans for peaches this week (and pears if I can find some nice organic ones).

Also, a more important first than surfing or sand happened today while I was out... Cassia said "Dada". I was sceptical, thought Jason was making it up, but sure enough, every hour she blurts out "dadadadadadada". Clever baby!

Ah, the adventures of Mommyhood!

6 months today!

2008-07-30T16:47:00.000-07:00

My beautiful little girl is 6 months old today! I cannot believe how fast the last 6 months has gone.

Cassia thought she would share a few highlights of the last 6 months.

A visit from my Gran and Poppa.
A holiday to Australia for Uncle Chris and Aunt Martine's wedding as well as a visit to nice warm Queensland.
A trip to Yellowstone National Park where I got to see a Grizzly Bear.
Learning lots of new things like eating, sitting up and commando crawling.

Here is another video - this time of her mad sitting skills. Still a little wobbly, but getting there. (Martine - check out the t-shirt!)

The ABC's of me...

2008-07-27T22:34:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by Nicole to do this!

THE ABC's OF ME!!!

A. Attached or single? Attached!

B. Best friend? Jason. Best non-hubby friend - Kristen.

C. Cake or Pie? Do I have to choose? I take both.

D. Day of choice? Hmmm, used to be Friday when I was working. Now I guess it would be Saturday.

E. Essential items? Computer, digital camera, well stocked diaper bag and a good book.

F. Favorite color(s)?Blue

G. Gummy bears or worms? Bears - only haribo brand though.

H. Hometown? Melbourne, Australia

I. Favorite indulgence? Ice cream or Cheesecake

J. January or July? January in Australia, July in America - follow the summer!

K. Kids? Cassia - 6 months this week!

L. Life isn't complete without? Jesus Christ!

M. Marriage date? January 17, 2003

N. Number of brothers and sisters? 1 older brother

O. Oranges or apples? Oranges

P. Phobias? None really

Q. Quotes- "Your Mom goes to college"

R. Reasons to smile? Too many to name. But one would be my little baby girls smiles, laughs and latest tricks!

S. Season of choice? Summer!

T. Tag 5 people: Not going to! If you want to do it , feel free!

U. Unknown fact about me? I know how to breathe fire. I did it when I was about 14.

V. Vacation of choice? Somewhere beautiful, historic, culturally rich and with a beach - not too picky am I?

W. Worst habit? Procrastinating.

X. X-ray or ultrasound? I have had both. But lots of ultrasounds in the last year.

Y. Your favorite food? Pasta

Z. Zodiac sign? I do not have one!

You know you have Mumnesia when...

2008-07-26T10:36:00.001-07:00

So, I think I finally reached the last milestone in knowing that I have Mumnesia...

...I wore two different shoes out of the house.

The worst part was that I did not notice until I was in a changing room trying on a pair of jeans, and had to take my shoes off... one black havaiana sandal, and one beige cobian sandal... two very different shoes.

I was shocked, embarrassed and couldn't stop laughing at myself. I was wondering how many people had noticed and politely pretended nothing was wrong.

The fact that I fit into a smaller size of jeans made me feel slightly better about the mishap.

Apart from my total insanity, we have been having lots of fun this summer, here are a few more pictures of Cassia.

See, she is Australian, she is part Koala.

Playing with her dolly - Miss Buttons.

Mmm... rice cereal is delish!

2008-07-17T22:41:00.001-07:00

Here is the latest adventure in Cassia's life...

I decided Cassia was ready for solids the other day when she tried to take a bite of my 'Skinny Cow' popsicle... literally tried to chomp the top off. Good thing I have Mr Miyagi reflexes.

So here are the photos of her first meal.

Hmmm... what is this coming towards me?

I think I likey...
Oooh, now Daddy is giving me some. I like a man who feeds me.
Chomp Chomp Chomp...

He he, I got the spoon! No stopping me now!

Wow, this is so much fun! I am going to do this again!

Almost Crawling - video

2008-07-11T18:58:00.000-07:00

Here is a video of Cassia attempting to crawl - 5 months is too early!!!! I need to buy a playpen now!

Video

2008-07-03T17:43:00.000-07:00

Here is a video of Cassia today playing with her Daddy.

Long overdue update!

2008-06-28T17:18:00.000-07:00

Firstly, apologies for the long overdue pictures and update! I accidentally left my camera cable in Australia so now it is back there is no stopping me!

Here are some photos of our trip to Australia:
Happy families, Gran and Poppa and Cassia before afternoon tea.

Cassia and her Aunt (read the t-shirt she is wearing) at Chris and Martine's beautiful wedding.

And here are some pictures from our trip to Montana/Wyoming a few weeks ago. We went for our friend Jennifer's wedding at Yellowstone. It was such a fun wedding where right after the wedding we did a bus tour of the park! What a fun day!

Jennifer looking beautiful in the dress her Mom made, and Cassia looking beautiful in the ribbon that was tied around our goody bag! Cassia loved Jennifer - there was a bond there!

Jason and Cassia in front of 'Old Faithful'.

Cassia and me at another thermal feature, Cassia wearing her hobbit cloak! It was windy and her blanky was on the bus! Bad Mommy.

Cassia rolling around on yet another hotel bed... she is quite the traveller!

Vacation Video

2008-06-05T20:32:00.000-07:00

Here is a video of Cassia from our vacation in Australia.
She had her 4 month check up today and is 13lbs 3oz and 24.5 inches long.

First swim and time in Australia

2008-05-22T19:59:00.000-07:00

We are safely in Australia and Cassia did really well on the fight over. She slept most of the flight and was only a little fussy on the way down when the pressure hurt her ears. She really is amazing and we were so blessed by the answer to our (and others) prayers.

We spent a week in Canberra settling in and visiting people and then flew again (a much more reasonable 3 hr flight) to Port Douglas for a holiday.

Cassia did wonderfully on the flight, and on the bus trip, she has been charming people wherever she goes.

We all really enjoyed the hot weather (it was perfect) and Cassia went for her first swim!

We also spent a day on the Great Barrier Reef snorkeling with Nemo and his friends. It was absolutely amazing and Cassia loved her first boat ride (and the semi-submersible boat too!) and was very happy to see her first shark, turtle and lots and lots of fish!

Now we are back in Canberra for a few days before the main event (Uncle Chris' wedding) up in Sydney next Friday.

Packing Cassia

2008-05-06T13:18:00.000-07:00

We decided to save some money and pack Cassia:

Just kidding, but as you can see we are getting ready for our big trip so I might not be blogging as much over the next few weeks.

We are very excited! Please pray that Cassia does well on the plane, it is a long (14.5hr) flight! Also pray that Cassia would learn to take the bottle again as she has decided that she doesn't like it! So we are having a battle of wills at the moment.

Rock and Roll!

2008-04-25T13:48:00.000-07:00

Video - Fun times with Cassia

2008-04-17T11:46:00.000-07:00

If Cassia came with a manual...

2008-04-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

If Cassia came with a manual these would be some of the instructions...

Sometimes I need a cuddle

Sometimes I need alone time
If I am fussy you need to hold me like this so I can see around, I am curious

I love to have baths, shampooing is fun!

Visit from friends

2008-04-09T20:24:00.000-07:00

This week we had our friends Matt, Kristen and their little girl Anna visit. Here are a few photos from their visit and some others too.

Cassia wearing the outfit I came home from the hospital in (Dad must have thought I was going to be a fatty)

Cassia reading a book that my Dad gave her, some of my favorite stories...

Cassia in Parisienne pink, like the beret?

Kisses from Anna! She loves Tassi (a.k.a. Cassia)

Look at my big girl sitting up (okay so she is wedged in there, but that is some impressive head control)

Almost 2 months!

2008-03-27T07:55:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

I have been very busy for the past few weeks so thought I would update you on my life.

I had a lovely Easter with Mummy and Daddy... we made hot cross buns on Good Friday, went to church on Saturday and then out to dinner with Mummy and Daddy's friends. On Sunday Mummy and Daddy couldn't sleep so we went down to the beach to see the sunrise, it was my first time at the beach. Then after that we went to Daddy's Aunty's church to see their Easter play (I really liked it). We also had a yummy dinner with Grandma, Grandpa and Uncle Jeremy.

This is me and Mummy at the Beach

Then, on Tuesday I went for my two month Dr's appointment (Mummy says she can't believe that it is 2 months already). They weighed me and measured me and I am the right height for my age but a little on the skinny side. The nice Dr said that is okay though because I was born small and Mummy always says that good things come in small packages. Then after that they stuck some big needles in my thighs, I didn't like that at all but I was a very good girl anyway.
This is me in my Easter dress with Daddy

I also slept through the night for the first time on Monday night, and then again last night. Mummy seems to think this is the best trick I have...

I hope you all had a good Easter too!

Cassia

Beautiful Girl...

2008-03-18T12:20:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of Cassia this week.

St Patricks Day outfit...

Aussie Ugg Boots!
Gangsta with her hood!

Kitty Cat

Passport Fun!

2008-03-11T10:38:00.000-07:00

Cassia and I had a fun photo shoot while Jason was away at Junior High Camp last weekend... it was an attempt to get a passport photo for her.

Now, this is a relatively simple task for the average adult, or even child who can hold still for ten seconds, but not for a 5 week old.

Stringent US passport standards require that the photo is taken front on, eyes open, mouth closed and with a 'natural' expression... oh, and you cannot have anything other than the person in the photo, so no hands holding her still, or pillows wedging her up!

Needless to say I was very thankful to find a website that allows you to upload a digital photo and they crop it to the right size so you can print it yourself... I cannot imagine taking Cassia somewhere and trying to get this photo done.

It took 3 separate attempts and 98 (I am not exaggerating) photos until we got one that would fit the specifications.

Now, long story short, this website is pretty awesome, because not only is it much cheaper to do it yourself (19cents to print yourself, $8 at the pharmacy) but you also get to pick a pose and picture that you like! So to any friends who are needing passport photos (they do American and Australian ones as well as 58 other countries) check out the site (click here).

Here are our final shots!

US Passport photos

Australian Passport photos

Talking...

2008-03-08T11:53:00.000-08:00

A fun video...

2008-02-28T12:43:00.000-08:00

Daddy's little Valentine

2008-02-22T09:17:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of photos from Valentine's Day... her onesie says "Daddy's lil Cupcake"

Sleepy baby, snoozing with Grandma...

Gran and Poppa Visit

2008-02-10T10:27:00.000-08:00

Here are some photos of Cassia with my parents and her Daddy!!

Cassia Ann Wright

2008-02-02T16:20:00.000-08:00

By now most of you will have heard that Cassia Ann Wright was born Wednesday, January 30th at 11.55am.

She weighed 7 pounds and is 19 inches long.

My labor was incredibly fast for a first time around and after laboring at home for a few hours (from about 3.30am) Jason and I went to the hospital at about 7.30am. By the time I had been admitted things were well underway.

I had my water broken at 9.55am which helped things go at warp speed and was pushing a little over an hour later!

My Mum is right - they call it labor for a reason! Phew.

I had a few complications after it was all over (I will spare you the details - the morbidly curious can email and ask me!) so spent a few hours hanging out with Jason and Cassia in the Labor and Delivery room before being moved over to recovery sometime around 3pm.

Jason was absolutly amazing through the whole thing, and said I was very well behaved too - no yelling at him or anything (I was too busy trying to work through the pain to talk!)

We spent two nights at hospital recovering and getting used to being parents.

We are at home now where Cassia is getting the hang of feeding, although she really likes sleeping when she is supposed to be eating.

She is the most beautiful little girl, so soft and she smells so good! I am amazed every time I look at her at God's goodness to give us the most beautiful daughter and how I can love someone so much so quickly.

Here is a link to our flickr page which has some photos from the first few days of Cassia's life:

http://flickr.com/photos/emmawright/sets/72157603827258304/

Christmas, and Birthday, and New Years... oh my.

2008-01-03T23:26:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update to let you know we are still here, hanging in there and waiting for the arrival of our little girl.

Christmas was a great time spent with Jason's family, my birthday was a great relaxed day and New Years was pretty uneventful, but it was amazing to think of everything that is coming up in 2008; the birth of our first child, a trip to Australia in May for my brothers wedding (and for baby girl Wright to meet the rest of the family), Jason's brothers wedding in September and no doubt much more we haven't even thought of yet!

So much news!

2007-12-23T14:57:00.000-08:00

I have so much news to report... I will do my best to remember everything and get it all in.

First, last Thursday while sitting in my Dr's office waiting for my name to be called Jason and a surprise walked in - yep, my Mum all the way from Australia! I could hardly believe it and think I spend most of the day in shock and checking that she was really here! I had absolutely no idea she was coming!

The next thing that happened was during my Dr's appointment - I got off bed rest!
So taking full advantage of the situation (being off bed rest and my Mum visiting) we went to Disneyland on Friday. It was very nice to see all the pretty Christmas decorations, reindeer etc. but best of all just to be with my Mum. We managed to visit lots of stores while she was here, and finish up our Christmas shopping and get in lots of cups of coffee (decaf for me) to catch up on over a years worth of talking!

We also had a lot going on with the Youth Group last week, we went caroling on Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights at three local convalescent homes. It was great to visit with the residents, and hand out Christmas gifts.
We have a few more things this year to look forward to, tamales on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day with Jason's family, New Years and then I think we will start the count down to our little girls arrival.

Merry Christmas everyone, hope you as nice a surprise as I did!

Baby Shower

2007-12-12T17:47:00.000-08:00

My baby shower was on Sunday. It was such a fun day and Andrea did an amazing job!
There were fun games, lots of great food, and we got lots of things for little baby Wright...
My best friend Kristen came down and surprised me for it which was the icing on the cake!
Enjoy looking at the pictures.

30 Weeks, not long now....

2007-11-25T20:46:00.000-08:00

Here is a photo of me at 30 weeks... I am very happy to have made it this far and our little girl grows a little more every day she waits to make her grand entrance into the world.

Jason had this week off so I had company which was great, I also got to go out to the church Thanksgiving feast and to his parents place for Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday which was great.

Surprise 80's shower!

2007-11-14T16:56:00.000-08:00

Last Friday afternoon, I was sitting at home, expecting another night on the couch (although I was pretty excited because I had friends coming to visit) when Jason told me that I should get ready because I was going out!
Not a big deal normally, but when the only time you have left the house in the past 3 weeks was for a visit to the Doctor it is pretty exciting.

He had cleared with my Doctor for me to go to the Youth Group 80's party, just so long as I promised to stay sitting on the couch all night. No problem, I am really good at that. He had even been sneaky enough to get the friends who I thought were coming over to play along with the whole thing.

We got to the party, and I was confused to see some very non-80's decorations - they were pink and shiny (which I guess is actually pretty 80's) but they had 'Baby Girl' written on them... yep, they had fooled me, the 80's party was actually an 80's party/surprise baby shower!

The outfits were fantastic, and some of them didn't look that different to ones I am sure I have worn - leg warmers, baggy t-shirts with leggings, big crimped hair etc. The boys even made an impressive effort.

There were a few shower games that the youth participated in and Jason and I laughed at - drinking apple juice from baby bottles, guessing the baby food flavors etc. glad I wasn't expected to participate!

The night became even more of a surprise when the youth rolled out a baby shower present for us, an awesome stroller! Our little girl is going to be riding in style and comfort! I was shocked, I think you can tell by my expression! We also got some adorable outfits which I am having a lovely time imagining our baby in.

So, thank you youth group, we love it!

Bed Rest Update

2007-11-03T15:38:00.001-07:00

I went to my Doctor on Thursday (my first time out of the house since I was put on bed rest), and things are good, the baby has calmed down for now and with continued bed rest things are looking good.

So for now I am allowed to lie in bed, lie on the couch, sit on the couch, go to the bathroom and get snacks... that is it. It has been challenging being obedient to the Doctors orders, but some advice from friends has reminded me that it will be all worth it in the end :)

It looks like I will be on bed rest until our little one arrives, but I have been given the all clear to go to the hospital maternity tour this Wednesday, and to go to my baby shower in December... next visit I will work being allowed out for Thanksgiving.

As you can imagine I don't have any very exciting stories to share... but feel free to share some with me!