Tao of Cyberspace: June 2008

Hikaru's Library Books

Hikaru likes to read (pictures). Every couple of weeks, we go to the library. Some of his recent selections include such literary classics as -- Chato's Kitchen, Frog and Toad Together, Big Bear Ball, and I Like Stars...

He took the books with him to Pau-Pau's (grandmother's) house. Pau-Pau enjoyed reading "Chato's Kitchen" to Hikaru -- translated into Chinese. Here's a short excerpt of some of the captivating drama...

"Hola!" Chorizo barked politely.
Chato and Novio Boy scampered from under the table and leaped up on the curtains, where they meowed for their lives.
"What are you doing here?" Mami mouse asked. "Don't tell me you're scared of Chorizo. Mira, he's a nice dog." Chorizo wagged his tail and let his tougue fall out.

Please let us know any other children's book titles that you might have enjoyed, so that we'll look for them the next time we're visiting the library.

Labels: books, hikaru

We Like Baby Showers

Our "baby boom" at work continues... The other week, we held a potluck and a baby shower for three expectant co-workers -- Janet, Silvia, and Colleen. Just thought I would post a few photos.

Hikaru still talks about the party and says, "Hikaru like baby shower!" The dog, Jasper, was one of the main highlights...

In the following photo, the two-year olds Tomie and Rockett go a little crazy in collecting leis...

The adults engaged in a difficult and challenging game of "Baby" Jeopardy...

A big congrats to the moms! Colleen, Janet, and Silvia get showered with cards and gifts...

Here is Yasmin being a bit "laid back" -- and is also having much fun!

Three-month old Emma poses with her proud parents, Dean and Kim -- who don't know they are being photographed.

Do we sing happy birthday now, or is it too early? The moms cut the cake.

Finally, baby shower parties have many activities for kids... Kai and Tomie enjoy playing with the ice and water in drink bucket.

Thomas & Friends Pocky

The fascination of Thomas the Tank Engine is something I'm trying to figure out, but then I'm not a child psychologist. What is it about this train engine with a happy face?

Two-year-old Hikaru recognizes Thomas, so it only makes sense that it's a great marketing ploy... We were browsing through the candy section at our local Japanese supermarket, and saw these "Thomas and Friends" Chocolate Pocky.

"Peep! Peep!" says Thomas. We can take the people where they want to go.

School is Fun

Hikaru likes going to school. He says, "Hikaru like teacher. Teacher nice." He goes to a public-school-sponsored "Mommy and Me" class held at the neighborhood church.

On the first day of school, Hikaru took off his shoes after coming inside. He was the only one, but now he's more familiar with mainstream customs. They sing songs, do arts and crafts, eat a snack (Hikaru's favorite part), and play outside.