Thursday, June 6, 2013

Meet Camden Anh Minh Pham

 Camden Anh Minh Pham came into this world weighing 4lbs 1oz on May 23, 2013 at 1:05 a.m. It was definitely a roller coaster of emotions. He came unexpectedly a month sooner than planned. We were definitely not prepared for his arrival. Although this is just the begining, the feeling is unexplainable. It's truly a blessing! He shares the same birthday with his uncle, Tuyen, Trinh's older brother.

On Wednesday 5/22 after my weekly team's staff call, I received a call from Trinh. She informed me of the pain she was experiencing and that she's headed to the hospital on her own. I dropped everything and made my way there. Her contractions were steady and at times painful. After a few hours of being monitored, the Dr. released her since the contraction resided and she was only 1.5cm dialated.

 In about a half an hour from leaving the hospital, we were on our way back. The pain was excruciating to the point where Trinh could not walk. She was then admitted and was going into labor! Di Nga heard of the news and made her way to LA all the way from OC. I don't think I would have been able to focus if she was not there. We greatly appreciated her support. Thank you, Di Nga.

 After a few hours of hanging around in the labor room, things quickly changed within minutes. A couple of doctors and a handful of nurses all of sudden rushed into the room. Camden's (Anh Minh) heart rate was extremely low and the alarm was activated. Trinh was quickly rushed into the OR before answers were given. From that point on, everything was a blur.  

 Within minutes, Camden (Anh Minh) arrived into this world. I was excited to hear him cry yet the concern for Trinh overcame the joy. She was put to sleep during the entire procedure and was unable to see her first born. Camden (Anh Minh) was quickly rush into the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit). They did not get the opportunity to bond immediately as we imagined. It was tough, but luckily both mother and son pulled through.

 The following day, Di Nga and Jonathan came to visit. It definitely put a smile on Trinh's face. You can say they help eased her pain and ordeal. Camden (Anh Minh) also received his first stuffed animal as well as flowers for Trinh. I cannot thank you guys enough. I didn't get a chance to take photos of Chu Long, Phuong, & Kim when they came. Thanks for making the visit.

The following day Trinh felt much better and gained enough strength to visit Camden (Anh Minh). Once within her arms, he opened his eyes. I guess he recognized his mom's voice.

 Thank you to all of our Family and Friends who reached out to us. We cannot thank you guys enough. From phone calls to texts, offers to help in any way, care packages sent overnight, shipment of preemie clothings, and messages of comfort. Life is great to know we have such caring people in our lives. 

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Saturday, May 4, 2013

LACMA

It's too sunny and beautiful outside not to enjoy what this Saturday has given SoCal. We started our day off in East LA for lunch. We indulged our tacos at Guisados on E Cesar Chavez Ave. Always delicious! A bit spicy. As a precaution, we headed back home for a pit stop. LOL

Ahhh. Much better. We then headed out to LACMA to hang out and soak up some sun. Haven't worked out for a while so I decided to do a few shoulder presses. 

Failed. Very disappointing. Couldn't lift it. I felt like this statue.






Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Crystal Cove Cottage 04.27.13

Thanks to Di Nga, we were able to enjoy one of the cottages at Crystal Cove located in Newport Beach, CA. They are very difficult to come by. Six months advanced booking were all reserved within minutes of opening (8am). This 'get away' was to celebrate Phuong's (Phil) Birthday, the last year within his 30s. What a great weekend to enjoy one of many Southern California's beauty. For many of us, it's within reach, our back yard.

A few shots of the cottage and surrounding areas






While everyone was still sleeping, Trinh & I decided to take a short walk along the beach and pick up a few cups of hot coffee to bring back.



Later that morning Sarah, Trinh, and Kim pepared breakfast. Sage took a liking to the turkey bacon. Check out how she came up with her special breakfast. Bacon substituting bread! Thank you ladies!









Within hours, the rest of the party arrived and the sun made its way through the marine layer. Perfect weather indeed. From here on are all random shots throughout the day.