Happy Birthday Po-Po weekend in Atlanta

Elaine and I flew down to Atlanta last weekend to celebrate my mom's 68th birthday on April 12th. Because Elaine is under 2 and could be a lap baby on the plane, she was the best candidate to join me! Nothing beats a free plane ride for a child! It was exciting for her!

In no time after landing and getting greeted by my family, Elaine absorbed lots of attention and received many gifts. Po-Po gave her new shoes and a new dress, which Elaine totally loved. She really enjoyed showing off her new shoes by striking a model-like pose.

The two days in Atlanta went by very quickly, but we still managed to see and eat a lot! First stop was the Lego outlet store. It was about the coolest store for any kid and adult! So many blocks with many more opportunities! You can even build a huge Lego kid! Elaine couldn't resist his eyes!

For lunch, we went to The Lobster House, which actually had a wonderfully large sushi buffet. It was so so good! We ate more than our bodies needed, so we walked it off at a nearby mall. To my niece Alysa's great excitement, we made a long stop at the American Girl store. That place was madness!
Elaine had so much fun with Po-Po. This picture about says it all!

Po-Po even gave Elaine her first manicure. Elaine's nails were so tiny, Po-Po had to pull out the reading glasses to see them! :) Not my first pick of colors, but lime green was a huge hit with Elaine!

We enjoyed a home-cooked meal and a Cheesecake Factory cake for the birthday celebration.

Alysa and Alex gave a mini concert playing the Chinese musical instruments they're learning to play. Elaine was very interested in both of them. Anyone in Iowa City giving lessons?

More fun family times filled the weekend with a trip to Chinatown...Anthony and Elaine in the Chinese garden area.

No sibling rivalry, just love, during an outting to Rita's. Everyone is always happier after custard and Italian ice, right?

Something about watching baby eat an ice cream cone is just so fascinating.

Art time with cousin Alysa.

QT with my dad's African Grey Parrot, Doong Doong.
My mom loves giving him head scratches.

Many laughs and smiles before we headed back to the airport.

Many laughs were provided by Ai-yee. The least Elaine could have done is say "Ai-Yee", but we're still working on that! Promise!

No trip to Atlanta would be complete without have a yummy plate of Masaman Chicken Curry...

at my favorite restaurant of all time, Thai Chili!