From Tropics to Tundra and Where Do We Go From Here

Between making big decisions, packing up our home, taking care of twin two year olds, saying goodbye to good friends, moving overseas, and settling into life in a new-ish city... I haven't had much desire to blog, as I'm sure you can understand! You, being any human on earth who can read what I just wrote. Yes, life has been full of life for the Adertons.

The decision to move home was one of much discussion, thought, and prayer. We love Brunei. The friends we made changed us for the better and we carry them in our hearts forever. We thought we would be in Brunei longer than a year and a half, but things don't always pan out the way you think they might and ABC'S The Bachelor doesn't always chose who you thought he would (C'mon Chris!). But just as Netflix brings new, good, and surprising shows like the Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, God brings new, good, and surprising things.

Physically, the transition from tropics to frozen tundra was rough. Our first week and a half consisted of trying to adjust the worst jet lag we've ever had. Not only did I get a spat of food poisoning in Hong Kong, but we've had an array of stomach flu, sinus infection, and fever. Despite these things, we've just. been. good. 

We are happy to be back in the midwest, snow and all. We've spent some time with family and are beginning to catch up with friends around the region. Dan is getting set with school and work while the twins and I are figuring out our new normal.

For me, personally, I am enjoying being creative in ways that have been on the back burner for the last few years. There is so much in me that is waking up after a "twin marathon" hiatus and I'm excited to tap into those things and see where they lead. This means I've decided to officially put this blog on the back burner while some of those other ideas are boiling. No more thinking, "I haven't written a blog post in a while," so instead my mind can stew on something new. I'm fairly sure I will come back again, but for now, I'm going to turn down the heat and let it simmer quietly in the back.

I've so loved sharing what we've been doing with our friends and family and I greatly appreciate everyone's encouragement, support, and love. If you want to see what we're doing, the best way to do that, for now, is to follow my private Instagram account. Username: @aderanna  Otherwise, keep your notifications on and you may see a new blog post someday. Or not! Who knows! :)

Why The Girl Who Didn't Like to Sweat Does CrossFit

Over the past three weeks we've hosted and participated in two CrossFit competitions with athletes from around the world, here in Brunei. By my own volition, I spent two days running through a jungle, swimming laps, lifting weights, and sweating. My team got last place, but we had a gloriously good time and wore superhero capes. Hi, I'm Anna Aderton, and I'm blowing my own mind. 

Let's take a quick jog walk (running sucks) down my athletic career memory lane. 

I come from a big family that enjoys sport and wanted to give us ample opportunity to explore what we like. I tried ballet, tap dance,

gymnastics, soccer, basketball, volleyball, and softball. I was a decent second baseman, but once while pitching I walked in 12 runs in a single inning, causing the opposing team's coach to yell, "JUST SWING" so that we could end the most embarrassing moment of my life. I realized I wasn't on the same path as my three siblings, all who had the title of "All Conference Pitcher". I also hated running bases during practice and playing when it was cold outside. And when it was hot. 

I loved playing basketball, still do, but did not like how competitive, cliquey, and stressful it could be. It was not a fun or encouraging environment. I also really hated sweating at the time, wanted to learn how to knit, and decided to focus more on playing piano, just like every 70 year old grandmother 15 year old girl.

I was on a great volleyball team that I truly loved and was so thankful for after moving to a new high school when I was 16. But, my senior year of high school I was given the lead role in a community musical. I said a tearful, "buh bye" to bump-set-spike and dove head first into my role as Maude Draper-Cowles. 

Luckily, I come from a family who also values the arts and enthusiastically supported my decisions. In the short and long run, this was all beneficial. I went on to place first in vocal and piano competitions, have more leads in musicals, complete my bachelor's in music education, and gain a greater understanding of the world of music. I learned that I love to perform and feel so alive when doing so. 

Now, here I am doing high-intensity training - CrossFit. Sixteen, twenty, and twenty-two year old Anna would laugh in twenty-six year old Anna's face if they got a chance to chat (I've been watching a lot of Dr. Who lately, so who knows, it could happen). Here are the reasons why I am so enjoying this sport.

I really like people. I like getting to know someone, sharing stories, encouraging people, etc. CrossFit is a fun way to build community. There is social time before and after class to get to know each other. And there is something primal that happens when people come together do something hard. Accomplishing a difficult workout and encouraging each other through it brings people together, just like in life. We are also learning new skills at the same time, gaining knowledge and growing. 

In my mid-twenties, I have gained a value for health. In high school I ate an entire frozen pizza before dinner. In college I had a regular diet of mac&cheese straight out of the pot. I didn't even put it on a plate. My favorite food is Macaroni and Cheese Pizza. I'd work out every once in a while, do lots of crunches in my room, power walk, etc, and that amount of physical activity (when paired with good eating habits) really works for some people. But for me, something mystical and strange happened when I turned 26 and had twins. Apparently there is real science to back it up, but I can't eat the way I used to, work out the way I used to, and still live the kind of life I want. I fully recognize and embrace that my body will change for the rest of my life as I get older and have children, and doing CrossFit helps me keep it in the best possible shape. I want to be able to run around the park with Eli and Ella, lift them over my head, carry them both up the stairs at the same time, teach them how to play sports, and let's be real, I want to maintain a fit body. I think it is important to honor God by living a healthy lifestyle. CrossFit is an effective activity that has shown me results. It also encourages me to eat well by valuing nutrition and teaching this in its foundation classes.

Photo cred: Ain Lim

I have a competitive nature in me, but I don't like when competition becomes prideful, stressful, or shameful. I like the healthy competition I see in our gyms and athletes. For example, when we begin a workout I simultaneously want to lift more and go faster than my friend, while wanting her to do the best she can, even if that means beating me. It is a fun atmosphere that also encourages me to work hard. 

It can be scaled to where you are. It would be detrimental to my body if I tried to do the exact same workout as Dan (because he's so strong and such a hunk). I will always be working toward doing the prescribed weights, but in the meantime I will be lifting the weight that is beneficial to my growth. This makes CrossFit very inclusive. After not working out for over a year and having twins, I was in rough shape. I couldn't keep up with anyone at the gym, but it didn't matter. I didn't feel shamed or embarrassed. I was encouraged and have now grown so much. People can start from wherever they are.

I like the time commitment it requires for someone like me. A typical workout never goes over 30 minutes (max), which leaves enough time for a good warm-up, skill lesson, and cool down.

And last but not least, I like that this is something Dan and I can enjoy together! Before I (really actually consistently) did CrossFit, Dan would come home after a WOD, say a bunch of weights, movements, and times that meant nothing to me. Now I understand! We bond over this common interest. We encourage each other to grow and develop our skills. I'm now teaching Dan piano, and he occasionally gives me private training. I like knowing if Dan's clean & jerk looked sloppy or pristine. I like knowing that when Dan says, "good job" he knows that I actually did a good job.

Isn't it encouraging to see how much a person can develop interests, gain values, etc? I, for one, like knowing that I will continue to change for the better. With guidance and wisdom, I will never be the same as I was yesterday. I am choosing to no longer be fearful of or stubborn to change. I am learning to have faith in the One who knows me better than I know myself. I am an ever refining loved one, counting on grace, learning as I go. And thank God for that. 

Eighteen Months!

The twinsies are Eighteen months! And me-oh-my have they changed since my last update on their first birthday. The past six months have flown by... Well, the past eighteen months have flown by. When the twins were newborns, I couldn't imagine myself writing those words!! And now here we are - walking, running, and using a few words.

One of the most fascinating things we've seen is their use of what seems to be their own language. They jibber jabber back and forth to communicate with each other. There are "words" in their common tongue that they use often enough for me to have learned them. I'll say, "Bah-tick-a bah-tick-a BAH" and they'll giggle, then start saying it! Oh, how I wish I knew what I was saying! When I put them down for naps or bedtime, they'll spend a good twenty minutes chatting in the dark, throwing teddy's back and forth to each other, sharing giggles. They've also started giving each other "tickles" and playing games of peek-a-boo.

One of the twins' favorite toys is a cardboard house that Grandpa Aderton made while they were visiting us. Eli and Ella will sit inside together, doing nothing, for ten minutes straight. Sometimes I'll think, "oh my gosh... where are the babies??" and there they'll be... sitting together in a cardboard house.

However, right now, it is not always toddler giggles, smiles, and tickles. They fight, steal, push, and pull. There are days I wonder if they will ever be friends, or if we are destined to a life of stealing each other's ball, pushing the other off my lap, and pulling the other's hair. We are learning. We are all learning. I am determined to teach them how blessed they are to have each other.

Eleanor Twain

-26lbs 84cm

-Eleanor is territorial of me and her toys. When she is on my lap and Eli tries to sit on my lap also, she will scream and push him away, or just get up and leave. If she sees a toy she wants and can't get to it, she becomes inconsolable. She'll point at it and yell, "Uh oh! Uh oh! Uh oh!" 

-The main object of Eleanor's affection is a pair of pink hand-me-down swimsuit bottoms. It completely baffles me. She MUST have these bottoms. Like, outta-control gotta have 'em.

-Favorite Toys: My Little Pony, Abby Cadabby, headbands, shoes, the broom.

-Words: mama, dada, shoes, Nonnie, tickle-tickle, uh oh, no no no.

-She enjoys telling Eli when he is naughty. She waves her hand in his face and says, "no no no!"

-Flutter runs.

-She is super obedient - she understands and obeys multiple directions.

-Strongly favored dad, starting to favor mom.

-She loves to watch Baby Einstein. I think she has a crush on the tiger puppet.

-The adventurous side of her is in full force when she encounters and conquers slides & ball pits.

-She likes reading books before bed.

-She is into opening doors (and locking doors... oops).

Elijah Victor

-31lbs 87cm

-Elijah is so big. He doesn't quite know how to use his body. He is stronger than he realizes and this causes some collisions.

-He is a sweet, sensitive fella.

-Cuddles is the name of his game. Snugglers gotta snuggle.

-Favorite Toys: Flashing balls, all balls, all technology (we've recently been giving some ipad privileges), ring stacker, anything soft and fluffy, broom.

-Eli is not super obedient. He is told no multiple times before he listens... if he listens.

-Thunder runs. Boomboomboomboom.

-Words: mama, dada, tickle-tickle, RAWR.

-Strongly favored mom, starting to favor dad.

-His hair is still red, my heart soars.

-He loves to watch Baby Einstein. Anytime we sit down to watch it he immediately mimics the tiger puppet, turning his head to the side and squealing.

-He loves to crawl and climb over, under, and onto everything. He'll frequently get stuck halfway off a chair and scream until I help him finish the next 3 inches to the floor.

-He will sing back to me and match my pitch <3

-He must play the piano when mama plays the piano.

-Loves Mike Mogard.

*Thanks to Nicole Payne for these great pictures!

How Do You Do It | Part 3: Flying With Twins Edition

Recently I’ve been approached by a number of people asking the question, “what tips do you have for flying with kids?!”. There is something about having booked over 100 hours of airtime with twin infants/toddlers that has caused other parents to reach out. 

As you can see, I have titled this post, “Flying with Twins” and not “How To Fly with Twins”. There is no magic formula (as our flight with screaming twins from Abu Dhabi to Kuala Lumpur would prove) but there are certainly lots of tricks (“Illusions Michael!”) that are valuable to have up your sleeve. All of these tips are for at least 20 hours of airtime with the likelihood of at least 48 hours of travel time, so do math or something to make it work for your needs. Some of these tips are twins specific (such as, how do I go to the bathroom with twin babies?), but most can be applied to one baby. For those of you with a toddler and a newborn… ummmm I don’t know ask my sister. 

Even if these tips in no way apply to you, scroll to the bottom for a little “flying advice” that I try to apply to all areas of my life. 

Hold on tight, we’re in for a wild ride. 

1. Going through security

a) Say a prayer - “Ohhhhhh Good Lord help us”

b) Keep baby in a carrier (we use Ergo) while putting luggage on the belt line, this keeps your hands free.

c) Think ahead while packing. Put all liquids and electronics together so that you can *quickly and easily take them out at this time.

d) Don’t put baby down, chances are you’ll get yelled at by security, trust me.

e) Some security agents will ask you to put ergo on belt - just ask what they would like from you.

f) Security agents may have to pat you down and test hands for chemicals if bringing liquid milk/formula through security. However, some airports were not as thorough as others and didn’t even ask us to take the milk out of our bag (seriously). 

g) Just don’t wear anything metal. Just, don’t. And wear the easiest shoes on earth - AKA: Toms (or Bobs, if you’re like me) As Michael Scott says, “KISS. Keep It Simple Stupid”. 

h) Applaud your travel companion for keeping their cool during a potentially stressful time.

*Relative to yourself, not the businessman behind you who is traveling alone with only a briefcase that is probably not full of diapers and crackers. He probably is carrying books. Books are these things that have paper and words. I am told I will get to read these again someday.

2. In the airport

a) Use the Ergo for the babes and the stroller for stuff. It is safer to have the babies attached to you, and it frees you up to use your hands for other things. It also keeps your backpacks/carry-ons all in one place, so all you really need to carry are the babies. However, when the babies were 14 months we didn’t travel with a stroller and it was easier to go through security and board the plane. 

b) Get to your gate, find your spot, and hunker down.

c) Use your resources to make a safe and confined play area. We moved chairs around. We used our bodies and luggage as blockades. We would find two empty rows of seats that were facing each other with one end up against a wall so only one of us acted as a blockade and the other fetched toys, changed diapers, or distributed snacks.

d) Napkins and straws are fun and free. 

e) Take turns with your spouse going on walks with your respective twin while the other guards the luggage and tries in vain to make the airport’s free wifi work. Why does it never work?!

f) In desperate moments, I have used the bathroom with child in Ergo tow. Sure, maybe that's TMI, but just saying, it can be done, and it was surprisingly easily. 

g) Priority seating - be ready for it and take advantage of it. It takes us a good 5 minutes to truly get situated once we're at our seats. It is much easier to do when the Spring Breakers aren’t trying to shove past you.

h) Tell your travel companion how much they mean to you and give them a hug despite the two bodies hanging off each of your fronts, trying to grab your hair. Because you probably won’t talk to each other for the next 14 hours. Group hug!!

What to pack when flying with 6 month old twins

Food

Bottles, formula, & squeeze pureed foods. We brought two bottles per baby. They were eating about every 4 hours at that point and we would rather have the flight crew wash four bottles every eight hours than two bottles every four hours. For their sanity, and our own. If you're nursing - yes, all the power to you. 100%.
Toys

We brought toys, but didn’t really use any. Maybe a book or a teddy.

Clothes

I brought 3 extra PJs per baby, but I should have brought more. At 6 months they’re still puking and spitting up. It’s harder to control all of that on a plane which makes for more mess. Now, I would probably bring 5 extra PJs per baby.

Note on PJs - zip-up PJs are easier in small airplane bathrooms than button up PJs. 

Diapers

I can’t remember the exact number, but we brought around 30 per baby. Yeah, like sixty- some diapers. It might’ve been too many, but my sister ran out of diapers on a plane once and it lead to my nephew being diapered with a towel and headphones. 

What to pack when flying with 14-16 month old twins
Food 

Large crackers (so you don’t have to hand them little crackers every five seconds), individual milks (some airports we went to didn’t have milk, so we used individual servings of milk that didn’t need to be refrigerated), dried fruits, squeeze pureed foods.

Toys

Straw drop, fluffy ball box, old remote controls with batteries removed, airplane remote controls (the flight crew learned to not reply to our “calls”), iPad apps, books, other toys with soft music. 

Clothes

4 extra PJs per baby. Chances are they will pee through their diaper. Chances are that it will be all over you.

Diapers

20 diapers per baby. 

Tricks

a) Bassinets - amazingly helpful tool. Only thing to keep in mind is that the flight crew will have you pick up your baby during turbulence, which can wake the baby up. Sometimes I just kept my twin in the Ergo if there was frequent turbulence. 

b) Benadryl - We had a couple doctor friends give us the “OK” on this. We use it when it is their nap time and they are having a difficult time falling asleep on their own. It is super helpful. We keep a bottle of Benadryl and a medicine dropper in a plastic baggy at the front of my backpack. 

c) Important note on Benadryl - On some babies, it can have the opposite effect and make them hyper. Make sure to test it out before your flight, or else you may have an extra crazy kiddo on your hands. 

d) The flight crew will wash your dirty bottles with boiling hot water if you ask them to. 

e) Depending on your airline, usually they will not let you keep your baby in an Ergo during take off and landing. So, don’t get on the plane, get all situated, and have your baby fall asleep in the Ergo before take off, only to find out that you have to take your perfect sleeping baby out of the Ergo and strap them into a seatbelt causing them to become a screaming monster. 

f) Depending on the aircraft and where you are sitting, you may not be able to sit in the same row as your partner when you have two lap infants. This is because most rows only have one extra oxygen mask. Be prepared to be separated from your partner. The one area we’ve had an exception with this is the first row of four seats by the separating wall. Often times we will be seated across a row from each other or one row in front of the other. 

g) My favorite international airlines that we’ve flown with: Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific.

h) My least favorite international airline that we’ve flown with: American Airlines.

i) Dan would like to it be stated that he liked Malaysian Airlines, while I felt impartial. 

j) Going to the bathroom can be a tricky thing to master with the ratio of babies to adults being 1:1. If you have extra seats by you, and your baby is big enough to sit up, set them in an empty seat by your seated partner while you set the new World Record in the 50 Yard Dash: Airplane Bathroom Category. If there are no extra seats or Dan is dealing with a particularly disastrous baby, I have asked the flight crew to hold my twin while I use the bathroom. The flight crew is thrilled to be helping a passenger through holding an adorable baby instead of pouring another glass of water and the baby is thrilled to be with a new face, a face that has on make up, good smelling breath, and isn’t sleep deprived. If you are using the bassinets on the plane, excellent. You are free to pee at your leisure. 

k) Ya know what? Sometimes our babies have cried on the plane. I know, crazy! Right?! And sometimes when they are crying, we let them. *collective gasp* I believe that at times it is better to have 10 minutes of nearly unbearable shrieking that leads to sleep and 3-5 hours of silence. Passengers, flight crew, and your own soul will question your sanity, but stay strong. You’re about to watch six old episodes of Friends. 

l) I tend to try to keep the babies awake during take off for two reasons. First, because of pressure changes in the cabin which can lead to ear troubles. I like to give them a bottle to help with that. (but also, sometimes they've fallen asleep for take off and everything was fine). Second, if the airline won't let you keep the baby in the Ergo, it can be uncomfortable for them to fall asleep with the seatbelt on. (but not always).

Pack for Yourself - Channel Bear Grylls

a) Once again I say it, and again I say… “Keep It Simple Stupid” You have 60 diapers in your backpack! Good luck fitting your toiletries bag, candies, neck pillow, and book in the only available tiny slot, initially intended for pencils. 

b) If at all possible, bring a device that is a music player, book, camera, and gamer all in one. (Not that you will get to do all, or any, of these things). Trust me when I say, at no point on this journey will you think, "awe geez I'm bored. I wish I had something to do". 

c) Bring your headphones, keep them easily in your pocket. 

d) Bring earplugs. Also keep them close at hand. 

e) I brought two changes of clothes. Roll them up tight and stuff them in a ziploc bag so they don’t get all undone.

f) A small tooth brush & toothpaste & small deodorant - so your partner will want to share a taxi with you when you land. Heck, so you will want to share a taxi with you. 

What's the Most Important Thing?
This is a question Dan and I ask each other all the time. I try to keep in mind on a long journey with two babies on a plane that getting frustrated, anxious, or annoyed will definitely not help me, my kids, or the people around me. We believe that anyone can maintain joy and righteousness in all situations. Difficult circumstances do not determine whether or not I am collected, happy, and content.  The state of my heart affects my attitude and how I affect others. As Proverbs 4:23 says, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."  It is not by my own strength that I do this, but thankfully there is a loving God who is us our strength, our defender, and our sustainer. This sounds like a pretty lofty goal, but it is something that we as a family strive for every day.

Picture Time

Here are some pictures from our last journey overseas at the 14-16 month age. I honestly don't think I took any pictures when they were 6 months on the plane! Also, you will notice that the kids look perfect and happy in all of these pictures. That is because when they are screaming bloody murder I don't think to take out my phone and snap a quick pic.

Taking a walk with Elijah Bean.

A great example of using our resources - play pen!

Fuzzy ball box! Eleanor could do this for hours.

Playing with the iPad.

Ahhhh sweet silence.

My cuddle bug.

The oh so excellent straw drop toy.

It is seriously wonderful.

We had to bring both carseats. Good thing we are a CrossFit family. 

A great cabin crew makes my heart soar. 

Singing for Royalty

Days like yesterday remind me of what an incredible opportunity living overseas is, and how it is bound to bring once-in-a-lifetime experiences. 

I sang for the Crowned Princess of Brunei!

The Brunei Ladies Golf Association held a luncheon in celebration of Her Royal Highness' birthday. My lovely friend, Vangi, knows women involved in the association who asked her to perform. Vangi, being the sweet person she is, asked me if I would like to perform as well! Vangi played the piano while I focused on my singing. Moments like this are best experienced with a friend, that's for sure. 

This is the first Royal function I've attended since being in Brunei, or since being alive. Let's be real. The closest I've come to meeting royalty was that time I took a picture with the fifth Cinderella I saw at Disney World. Ceremonial speeches were given highlighting the success of the BLGA and wishing the Princess a happy birthday. Vangi and I lead the women in singing Happy Birthday, but with amended lyrics as it is too informal and disrespectful to use the words, "too you". (During rehearsal I messed up a couple times! I sang it the right way in the car the whole way to the event). Traditional, honorary customs were happening everywhere I looked - how to shake hands, when and where and how to bow, do not walk in front of the Royal table, etc. It was a lot to take in and I'm thankful for the women who answered my questions about how to do all of these things! 

Photo from the Brunei Times

Her Royal Highness is very beautiful and has a poised demeanor. She walked in a self assured manner, in high heels no less, and was pleasant to everyone. As I "shook her hand" she stopped me and said, "nice singing" which was a huge honor. I was told that she really enjoyed my and Vangi's performance, and I'm so glad she did. I hope she had a very nice birthday. I believe she is around my age with two children also! 

The women in attendance were members of the BLGA and wives of Ambassadors to Brunei. I absolutely loved seeing the beautiful dresses and women from around the world in one room. My favorite dresses were very unique and gorgeous looks from Jakarta and the one pictured below, from the Philippines. It was a great place to connect with people about potentially teaching music privately and in educational centers!

After the Princess left, music started blaring and women started squealing and shouting, "pacho pacho!" (I think) which is an Indonesian dance. I watched for a minute or two, then realized it was basically the Electric Slide, and of course jumped right in! My favorite part was when a friend of Vangi's who was on the microphone started yelling, "COME ON VANGI! COME ON VANGI!" during the dance. These ladies know how to have good, clean, crazy fun. They were so nice and welcoming to me and made me feel comfortable enough to get out on the dance floor. 

That night I got a text from my sweet friend Apple with a picture of me on the news! I found the clip online - Vangi and I are featured for a fleeting second. Make that four times in the news for the Adertons! I wish I had put some of these things on a bucket list. 

"Sing for Royalty" CHECK. 

"Be on TV in another country" CHECK. 

"Dance the Electric Slide to an Indonesian song with women from around the world" CHECK. 

I must say, I feel so blessed and thankful for this experience. It was an honor to perform for Her Royal Highness and the BLGA ladies were so fun and welcoming.

This will be a good one for the game, "two truths and a lie" someday!

Also, for those wondering, I sang two pop songs. "Breakaway" by Kelly Clarkson and "Time After Time" by Cyndi Lauper. The music and the lyrics were very appropriate for the setting and I loved belting out some 1980s goodness. 

Forts

Sometimes that soccer ball has been rolled back and forth enough. Sometimes we've played horsey up and down the length of the apartment too many times to count and the piano keys have been hit and slapped so hard your ears could ring. 

That's when I take a breather, sit back, and relax in our fort while the twins crawl in and out and in and out and in and out. 

Something magical happens when a large piece of fabric is tossed over some chairs and the coffee table. You can retreat into your own cozy space, imagine, dream, forget, remember, seek. 

Today I'm thankful to watch and reflect as the twins crawl in and out of this space that makes their eyes grow wider and my heart grow wiser. 

Eleven Months!

The Twinsies are eleven months old!

Around 9 months I started noticing that I was doing something I said I wouldn't do. I was grouping them together. Yes, I say, "the twins" or "the babies" a lot, and will continue to do so, but more than semantics I was considering them a single unit rather than individuals. I made a conscious effort to stop that. Now, even if I tried to see them as a single unit, I don't think I could! Their personalities, likes, dislikes, etc are exploding so much that it would be near impossible. It is an amazing thing to see two lives developing, side by side, right before my eyes. I love having twins - it is a blessing like none other. 

Eleanor's Notables

Taking lots of steps! PR'd at 12 ;)

Has six teeth!

Clapping fanatic

Mimicking movements like pointing at her nose

Loves to pull open drawers and take everything out

People have commented on her personality really coming out this month

Elijah's Notables

Big fan of clapping

Has a seventh tooth poking out!

Loves to play "catch" with Dan's soccer ball

Listens and obeys when we say "no"

A very good eater

And for kicks and giggles...

See You!

I have confused a number of people in the past four months, for many reasons I'm sure, but mainly for using the phrase, "see you later". There have been multiple times when I have used the phrase, "see you later!" and someone replied with, "you will?" because to most people in Brunei, "later" implies, "later today". So, I've learned to cut my farewell short to just, "see you!" 

Well, my friend, Michelle, left this week to continue her studies in Australia. We got to know each other at the box during the 8:30am class with many other fun, strong, beautiful women (& the occasional man). After her last morning WOD we went out for breakfast and were educated on the different fruits and veggies of Brunei (thanks Maria!). 

Michelle is someone who picks up your equipment for you while you lay panting on the floor after a WOD, has a welcoming smile on her face, and has many giggles to share. I will miss her a lot and I know our fellow morning WODders will too. 

So, Michelle, I'll see you!

(Thanks to my friends who let me use their pics)

looking at the meat counter, not doing well at hiding my emotions

Hometown Love

Typing the name of your hometown into Pinterest will not take away any homesickness, but it will give your heart a hug and your face a smile.

I love my beautiful, quirky, small hometown. 

Gong Xi Fatt Cai!

Happy Chinese New Year everyone!

Gong Xi Fatt Cai is the traditional CNY wish. Gong Xi is wishing someone joy, and Fa Cai is "become rich". So, it is wishing you to be prosperous with joy in the coming year. I like it! There have been random fireworks going off for the past week in preparation for the events! I loooove fireworks.

We were honored with several invitations to celebrate CNY with friends. They have open houses, stocked with delicious catered-in foods, delectable drinks, and so so so many sweets. There are people constantly coming in and out. There are fireworks, lion dances, gifts, festivities galore!

I was not prepared for what a big deal this is. It felt like a "Christmas & Thanksgiving Graduation party on New Years Eve for your Birthday". And that is kind of how our friend described it, as many holidays rolled into two weeks (mainly this weekend though, I think).

We arrived and were greeted with warm smiles and well wishes, ushered to the amazing spread of food, and then relaxed, chatted, and ate to our heart's (and tummy's) content. The Twinsies were given traditional envelopes with a few dollars inside!

At one party was a "Lion Dance" during which men in a traditional "Lion" costume dance. I think we in the States usually call it a Dragon. During the Lion Dance, yards and yards of firecrackers pop and drums bang and clang. Eleanor was not phased by all the noise, but Elijah sure was.

A few of our friends took turns hanging out with him inside.

Alas! The Lion came inside the house too, which Eleanor loved.

The hospitality of our friends and their families is beautiful. We are so grateful to have friends here and to have the opportunity to experience this culture! 

Photo by my friend's brother!

Finally, don't ask me how this happened, but the next day we were in the news paper. Count that as three times in the last four months for Mr. Aderton!

Thankfully, Dan and I had finished our month of no sweets! So, after we had dessert upon dessert at the open houses, we also had a vanilla latte and chocolate mocha. All while the babies fell asleep on the way home.