It's been a year or nearly a year since I last posted anything here. I am happy seeing my daughter grow and never thought life could be this good. Finding time to juggle family, work and everything else in between is a challenge.
Thankfully I am able to stay connected with friends, family, and clients via a combination of email and Facebook. I don't mind that it's considered the new "AOL" or too trendy, I enjoy how easy it is to stay in touch.
We are still in our lovely Craftsman gingerbread home. The market is still a little rocky, but definitely improving. Can't wait to see more summer fruit this year. Loquats have been plentiful. Pluots and peaches are my favorite. Photos to come
For your viewing pleasure...
I love these literal music videos.
Another long past due entry...
It's 2:16 a.m. and Aislee is sleeping in my lap. She's growing amazingly fast and is really active these days. It's been challenging for her fighting her first real cold. She'll wake up several times frustrated with her stuffy nose.
I've been thinking how incredibly different life has changed with the baby. I wouldn't have it any other way. It's almost frightening how much I love this tiny human. The funny thing is, before she was born, my dear friend told me that it's important to not neglect the husband when the baby arrived. It's been non-stop taking care of her that there really is no time to pay attention to Naoki or really myself these past several months. Taking a shower uninterrupted is a luxury and I'm thankful when papa is able to take Aislee for a walk while I handle a few household chores. He spends most of his free time caring for the house and garden. What's interesting and a little funny, is that after you have this cute little one with small everything and inquisitive expressions, anything that was remotely cute or appealing in your partner ceases to be...well, cute. Suddenly, the baby has taken control of all that is cute. Not even Lucky, our comedic bird, can compete.
Other observations of life with baby... Buying new clothes, shoes, makeup is no longer a necessity. It has been replaced by buying food, toys (for baby), and diapers. I wear mostly what's comfortable now. Her comfort and well-being is my top priority. So far, I've been blessed with clients who are baby-friendly. She comes with me everywhere -- even to tour properties.
I never thought becoming a mother would incur so many changes. The pressure cooker Naoki purchased is a lifesaver. It makes healthy baby food in minutes! I'll try chubbing Aislee up with avocados, sweet potatos, and bananas. She loves Japanese pumpkin, kabocha, which cooks beautifully in the pressure cooker. I add a little cinnamon sometimes. She seems to enjoy it.
Finding time to eat for myself has been difficult while juggling caring for the baby and working. Making sandwiches enables me to eat and have a free hand while eating. My current addiction is Trader Joe's Garlic Cheddar Sourdough toasted and smothered with avocado on one side and thinly sliced cucumbers and cream cheese. Sometimes I'll slather raspberry jam and a savory speadable cheese on the same bread which is super good as well.
Ok, time for us to move to the Sun Room to sleep. This is where we now have our bedroom. The Star Room is our library/office, the Moon Room is also an office (that's in serious need of cleaning). I work in the Fire Room most of the time and the Sky Room (aka the dining room is used for gatherings. We'll be hosting Aislee's first birthday in July and hope to see some of you here at our gingerbread house.
As I sit under the warmth of the much appreciated kotatsu (heater table) with my daughter sleeping peacefully in my arms, I can't believe a half year has already passed since living in our home. For nearly three weeks two months ago, we dealt with uncomfortably cold weather and met with the challenges of staying warm in an older (109 yrs old) home while making an effort to keep the PG&E expenses down. With all my complaining and grouching, our last two bills came in under $100 dollars! Even while living in our tiny condo, our electricity bill usually fluctuated around $150.
I've really come to love this house with it's beautifully painted rooms. Naoki finished the Venetian plaster in the sun room and recently the star room. He did a wonderful job and they look wonderful and bring a warmer feeling to the house.
Life has been busy with family and business. We've been blessed in both areas. Naoki's mother and sister came for a brief nine day stay. They really enjoyed all the tasty fruit (navel oranges, pummelos, fuji apples, and oro blancos) that are in season from the farmers market in Campbell. I made a garlicky spinach pasta with fresh Meyer lemons from our yard one night. It came out very well, though I would have liked it to be spicier...recipe to follow.
In business, I feel very fortunate and again blessed to be working with so many incredible people. My listing in San Bruno thankfully sold and the seller is buying a lovely place to call home in Sacramento. Four deals have closed this year so far and with another in escrow, there is much to be appeciative for. Although the news is always painting a bleak outlook, they are usually behind in reporting how things are looking up.
Back to talking about home... We have nearly 50 fruit plants/trees in our yard now. The potatoes are sprouting in the crop circle Naoki made. The blossoms are radiant on Aislee's white peach / white nectarine tree and on the Georgia Peach tree we adopted from a home in Palo Alto. I'm looking forward to making fruit pies if the fat squirrels don't get to them first.
The old avocado tree that came with this house bears California Diablo avocados. They're smoother and creamier than Hass and have a thinner skin. They take two weeks to ripen once picked from the tree. Hopefully we'll have more growing as I love avocado sandwiches on toasted bread with Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie brand) and slices of cold cucumber! So good!! I could go off on a tangent when it comes to avocados... Actually it looks like I did.
Ok, on to the pasta recipe -
Boil your preferred pasta al dente (slightly undercooked) as you'll be adding it to another pan to mix in with the garlic lemon sauce.
1. In a large sauce pan drizzle a tablespoon of grapeseed oil (olive oil is fine too) and a pat of butter, heat on medium flame. 2. Add crushed garlic, approximately 5 - 7 cloves 3. Sprinkle a teaspoon (or more depending on your heat preference) of red pepper flakes 4. Add a few pinches of salt to meld flavors, more can be added later to adjust 5. Careful not to burn the garlic, give your mixture a few pushes around your pan. 6. Once garlic is crisp, add spinach and pasta. 7. Mix everything well til spinach is cooked, adding a touch more oil or butter as needed. 8. Finally add thinly sliced lemon wedges of one lemon or juice lemon and add it's zest.
Life in a 108 year old Gingerbread House
...is beautiful, but cold. Partially due to the original old lead glass windows still in place, it's drafty and gets quite chilly. During the summer, it was wonderfully cool most of the day and only became unbearably hot on a few days.
After our last PG&E bill reached close to $450, Naoki started keeping a log of the gas and electricity meter readings. We no longer use electric heaters. He monitors how often we use the gas heater; however, we can no longer use it all now that he purchased a kotatsu. The house is only a few degrees warmer than outside, even at night. It varies from 55 - 60 degrees farenheit. I bundle the baby up in snow gear and keep handwarmers in my pockets to stay warm.
While I'd like to decorate the home in lights for our first Christmas here and with Aislee, Naoki is against anything that might increase the electric bill...although he was kind enough to give me the option taking over payments.
If you're ever considering purchasing an older home, I would strongly suggest making sure it's well insulated, has a newer heating/cooling system, and proper ventilation. I love the beauty of this old Craftsman, but hope our next home is newer...I mean warmer.
Long time no post
My baby girl, Aislee, was born on Monday, July 21, 2008 at 8:35 a.m. It's been a rollercoaster ride adapting to life with this tiny human. She is almost 11 weeks and looks more child/infant-like than a newborn now, though she's still technically a newborn til three months.
Here's her birth story...
Our baby girl, Aislee Reika Hada, was born unexpectedly this past
Monday, July 21 at 8:35 a.m. She weighed 6 pounds 11 ounces and was 19
inches in length. (Estimated Due Date: 07/28)
...
We had originally planned early on to have a home/waterbirth, but along the way Aislee's growth and amniotic fluid levels
became a concern, so my midwife declined my request for a homebirth at
37 weeks due to possible risks. Scrambling to find an OB closer to
home, I was referred to one that determined it was necessary to
schedule an immediate inducement with a possibility of a cesarean. I
consumed large amounts of water and supplements and went to a
specialist for a second opinion
the next day. They found the baby to be in perfect health at the
appropriate size with plenty of fluid, which the inferior ultrasound
equipment did not pick up at that OB's office. (Thank God for second
opinions)
This past Friday after having issues over giving birth
at a hospital, I requested my midwife to reconsider my birth plans.
She replied on Sunday that she was leaning towards granting my request
if I would make additional preparations for postpartum care. Later
that evening after eating a bag of oatmeal cookies and a half loaf of
lasagna, I went into labor...which I thought to be just a digestive problem
from overindulgence. I called the midwife at 3 a.m. Her assistant
arrived at 4 a.m. when active labor kicked in. The midwife came around
6 a.m. and Naoki finished filling the birthing tub at 7 a.m. (too late,
I wasn't about to climb into a tub at that point - thankfully the task
had kept him busy though). The baby was born on land naturally, not in
water as planned, at 8:35 a.m. She's healthy, alert, and very feisty.
When we first saw the sour cherry tree at God's Little Acre Nursery (located on Almaden Road in San Jose), I thought the fruit was for birds only. It was the prettiest dwarf tree laden with branches of tiny bright red cherries -- perfect for eating off of the tree or baking in pies. The owners of the nursery, Phil and his beautiful wife, Dolores, became our friends and we've enjoyed several trips to their gorgeous place to purchase fruit trees and a Silver Dollar Eucalyptus. If you purchase six or more trees, Phil will give a 10% discount...of course, Naoki could not resist such a deal!
The ones you see in this cup were a few of the last cherries, before our guests and bird, Lucky, finished them. We'll have to wait until next Spring for the new harvest. I wonder how the cherry blossoms will look.
At Home in the Gingerbread House
After weeks of loading and unloading, we're finally finished (for the most part) with our move into this gorgeous old gingerbread/Craftsman/Victorian home on the Northside. It's been challenging this far along in the pregnancy to deal with relocating even at this short distance. I'm due in 11 days, which feels unreal.
The house is definitely far from organized, but Naoki did an excellent job of refinishing the old pinewood floors and is in the process of applying Venetian plaster to one of the rooms. When we first viewed this property, I thought it was beautiful (still do), but not for us. I pictured us moving to some place...newer and more modern, possibly even a townhouse. Naoki fell in love with the yard and has since planted 19 fruit trees, or was it 20? I've lost count. All I know is that those damn squirrels that I thought were the cutest when we moved in, have eaten the white nectarines on my daughter's tree! Her papa purchased her a grafted white peach with two different white nectarines tree. I want to plant it as soon as she's born.
The gorgeous floral arrangement you see in this post is from our newlywed friends, Carla and Andre. They made our dining room smell amazing! This was our first of many flowers that have entered this home, but the only one that I managed to photograph.
For lunch today: Mom's Vegetarian Lasagna and White Peach Cobbler
One of the biggest perks of living close to my mom is having access to her wonderful home cooking! During my first trimester, I experienced a loss in appetite and could barely eat anything that wouldn't make me nauseous. The only dishes I could truly indulge in were prepared by my mother. Garlic and onions would turn me green, which is strange since my mom used both of those ingredients to make her lasagna.
My baby is probably made of 80% lasagna / 5% oatmeal cookies / 10% white peach cobbler / 5% pickles. Of course, I've made it a habit to take my vitamins, extra calcium (w/magnesium and D), folic acid, plus a consistent amount of omegas for her development. I falter a few times a week when it comes to eating low-glycemic, and really try to monitor my sugar intake. At nearly eight months, I've gained 18 pounds and will continue to watch the scale and what I eat to insure this little girl is getting proper nutrition and gaining weight in a healthy way.
In other news...we finally closed escrow on our home last Friday. It was a challenging experience purchasing a bank owned fixer upper, but the lovely little gingerbread craftsman was well worth the wait and huge pile of paperwork! I've dealt with many REO (real estate owned) properties this past year and am always amazed at what they previously sold for and how much attention or lack of was spent on maintaining the home.
HadaHomes' Blog
$415K Spacious 2 Master Suite w/ half bath, Private Patio & Garage in W. San Jose
Jeanette Hada | Realty World Peninsula Group | (408) 230-3491
Gorgeous & Spacious End unit Townhouse w/2 Master Bedrooms, Vaulted Ceilings, Private enclosed front patio. Central Airconditioning, Fireplace, Open Kitchen w/Breakfast Bar, 1/2 Bath on lower level. Attached garage w/extra pkg space. Lots of light, storage, and conveniently located near shops, schools & I-280/San Tomas Expressway. Kitchen appliances, W/D, & Patio set stay! Move-in ready!
**HOA Dues to be Paid by Seller until end of 2010!!***
~ SPECIAL OFFER - GO THROUGH OUR OFFICE TO MAKE PURCHASE AND RECEIVE 2 YEARS PAID HOA DUES!! ~
see additional photos below
PROPERTY FEATURES
- Central A/C
- Central heat
- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling
- Walk-in closet
- Living room
- Breakfast nook
- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven
- Microwave
- Washer
- Dryer
- Laundry area - garage
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
COMMUNITY FEATURES
- Garage parking
- Guest parking
OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES
- Desirable End Unit
- Private, enclosed patio
- Electronically-controlled seat-bidet
- Attached garage
- Near I-280 / San Tomas Express Way, Valley Fair and West Gate Malls
For Rent: Luxury 2 Bed/2 Bath w/Den @ The Axis San Jose
Jeanette Hada | Realty World Peninsula Group | (408) 230-3491
38 N. Almaden Blvd., San Jose, CA
Spacious & Bright 2 Bed / 2 Bath Condo w/Den at the Axis, DOWNTOWN SAN JOSE'S FIRST LUXURY HIGH RISE
2BR/2BA Condo
$2,295/month
Bedrooms
2
Bathrooms
2 full, 0 partial
Sq Footage
1,300
Parking
2 dedicated
Pet Policy
No pets
Deposit
$2,295
DESCRIPTION
Bright, spacious with gorgeous views and conveniently located in the heart of downtown San Jose. Easy access to many restaurants, HP Pavilion, Farmers Market and more! Amenities include pool, outdoor kitchen and BBQ area, two spas, state-of-the-art fitness facility, lobby attendant, and concierge service. **New appliances, closet organizer, and solar shades to be installed***
see additional photos below
RENTAL FEATURES
Central heat
High/Vaulted ceiling
Living room
Office/Den
Dishwasher
Refrigerator
Stove/Oven
Microwave
Granite countertop
Washer
Dryer
Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Cable-ready
High-speed internet
COMMUNITY FEATURES
Garage parking
Business center
Clubhouse
Storage space(s)
Fitness center
Swimming pool(s)
Sauna/Spa
Secured entry
Elevator
New property (< 5 years)
Wheelchair access
LEASE TERMS
Available month to month for $2295 or from March through July 1 for $2100 a month. Security deposit to equal one month's rent. Now accepting applications. Please contact me for a rental application.
San Jose Home Show - March 13, 14, 15 - $2 discount off admission
San Jose Spring Home Show
March 13, 14, 15, 2009
San Jose McEnery Convention Center 435 South Market Street San Jose, CA 95113 Friday, March 13, 11am - 10pm Saturday, March 14, 10am - 8pm Sunday, March 15, 10am - 6pm
The Home Show is an
event designed for homeowners in all stages of remodeling, landscaping
and decorating their homes. Each event includes hundreds of
exhibits with merchandise, product demonstrations and sample
interior and exterior vignettes. With a combination of new products
and expert advice from the pros, the Home Show
inspires homeowners with countless ideas on enhancing their
home's comfort and functionality, as well as its aesthetic
appeal and overall value.
Who should attend?
Whether you are a new homeowner,
or someone who has lived in your house for years, anyone
with an interest to update, enhance, and create a new
look or amenity for their home will enjoy the Home Show.
Why attend? Shop and Learn.
Shop
Meet hundreds of
exhibitors under one roof
Discover new,
interesting products and services
Find the best
resources in remodeling, landscaping, and design
services
Learn
Visit exhibits
Compare and save
Speak with experts
What types of companies
will I find at the show?
Almost any home product
or service that you can imagine will be represented at
the show. You'll meet contractors, landscapers, architects
and interior designers. You'll also have a chance to see
samples of products such as the newest in flooring and
walkways to transform your home and add to its appeal.
View displays of kitchens, baths, windows, doors, appliances,
furnishings, spas, pools, fireplaces, sunrooms, and so
much more. Come with ideas, photos and an open mind. You'll
leave with inspiration
For Rent: Top Floor Condo Unit w/Private Garage
Jeanette Hada | 408-230-3491
2033 Castlebury Drive, San Jose, CA
Quiet one bedroom / one bath condo, upper unit with private garage and extra storage space (235 sqft)
1BR/1BA Condo
$1,490/month
Bedrooms
1
Bathrooms
1 full, 0 partial
Sq Footage
560
Parking
1 dedicated
Pet Policy
No pets
Deposit
$1,490
DESCRIPTION
Bright, clean, and conveniently located within a short distance to downtown San Jose. Quiet one bedroom, one bath with one car garage and patio (Optional one car parking pass available for lot space). Perfect for one person or a couple. Gorgeous sunset view from private balcony.
Reverse osmosis water system installed, ADT security system (ready for activation), combo washer/dryer unit, electric garage door opener, plenty of closet and storage space.
Unit available now. Please contact for more information.
see additional photos below
RENTAL FEATURES
Central heat
Walk-in closet
Living room
Refrigerator
Stove/Oven
Washer
Dryer
Laundry area - inside
Balcony, Deck, or Patio
COMMUNITY FEATURES
Garage parking
Storage space(s)
LEASE TERMS
One month's rent (plus one month's rent as security deposit), 6 month lease then month-to-month or lease renewal, sorry - no pets or smoking.
Central heat
Central heat
