Jasmine van Zoest

Our belongings, the much talked about subject at the moment, have finally arrived. We have unpacked most of the baby items. We found most of her toys and other miscellaneous articles, such as the crib and changing table, but with that we also noticed her furniture no longer match her room.

Jasmine is having a lot of fun at home these days. We know she misses her toys. She sleeps in her own room. When she wakes up in the early morning, she plays in her room for at least 30 minutes each day before venturing to our room to rise us from our deep slumber. She is very comfortable having us away from her and she has her favorite lion rocker as her companion. We find her mounted on the rocking lion and rocking, almost each time we go into her room. Aside from the lion, we can find her selecting a book from the bookshelves or playing the piano too.

Mama and Papa are thrilled she has renewed her appreciation for them.

Down the hall a small voice sings, "Hop hop hop paardje in gallop". Jasmine has been singing through much of the day. She loves to sing and she sings various songs. Some lyrics are difficult for her to pronounce, though, she is not detered. We could still hear her try to sing it through. For instance she tries to sing "Klap eens in je handjes, Blij, blij, blij, " but she manages to only say, "klap… handjes,” and "blij". Aside from these Dutch songs, Jasmine can sing “ABC”, but not further then “C”. Similarly when she counts, she says “123”. We hear her counting up to three when she is about to throw one of her bath toys far away while playing in the tub.

Recently, it has been raining, but it is not cold. Jasmine plays outside despite the rain. Before venturing out, Jasmine shows mom that she needs her rain boots instead of her sneakers. If Mom does not agree with her, she puts on the rain boots herself. In this series you will find pictures from the above moments along with those of her at bath time, and of Jasmine with her most beloved person, her Papa. The moments are far more precious to experience in person than what the camera was able to capture, but it is the best we have.

Finally, to all the Moms and Mothers-to-be, Wishing You a wonderful Mother's Day.

(Ragged Morning)

Dearest Jasmine,

I have waited and wished upon million of stars for the day of your arrival. I worry about you day and night from the moment we met. I shower you with a love that overfills the universe. I pave the road you walk on with love, happiness, and joy. I get upset when things are unfair for you or when you get hurt. I am a typical, overprotective, overbearing, and over-the-top mother. I love you. When you grow up, you will understand that it can be effortless to give love.

Another Mother's Day has arrived. It is wonderful that we are able to celebrate it together. With all my heart, I love you.

Your Proud Mom.

Jasmine has gotten much taller since the last time she wore this outfit, at 9-months old. During that time, Mama and Papa needed an outfit for her to wear at a photo sitting session. Without much thought, we took her shopping. The moment, we saw the dress we thought it was lovely. Still we were reluctant to buy it, but Jasmine held onto the dress tightly and sobbed, we had to purchase it. Time changes and Jasmine is showing us that she is growing taller.

Jasmine will embark on a journey with Daddy. Papa will be going to the U.S to take care of some left over logistics related to our relocation. Mom and Jasmine will be accompaning him and we are so glad we are able to.

We went to Jasmines' 15 months appointment a while back, but did not update the website with the official news. At the checkup, Jasmine measured 31 inches and weights 20 pounds. According to the U.S growth chart, the measurements would place her in the 50th percentile in height and 20th percentile in weight. Though according to the Dutch chart, Jasmine was in the 20th percentile in height and 10th percentile in weight. Dutch babies are amazingly tall and heavy! The pediatrician also said that Jasmine talks a lot and she really liked what she was seeing... I guess that means Jasmine is doing very well for her age. At this point, she has no concerns for Mom and Dad to worry about.

With that said, Mom also needs to clarify that Jasmine's old outfit, such the one worn on her 5th month and 9th month anniversaries are of U.S. size 12-18 months. We are not suprised at how well she can fit into them now. So Jasmine, you are petite child, but not as much as Mom may have implied in earlier posts.

For current news, Jasmine invented a new word, "Bunnie-tje". A combination of English and Dutch words which means "little bunnie".

We look forward to our visits to the states. We hope Jasmine will do just as well on these flights as she did on the previous one and that she will love her stay in the U.S... And Aunt Jenny, congratulations on your promotion to a Navy E5 - Petty Officer.

Wishing you a wonderful Memorial Day celebration!