Oxidative Stress sounds like a big big phrase. Understanding the meaning of it also caused some stress ... ha ha ha.
I have read quite a bit on what is oxidative stress and have come up with a version that is layman enough to explain free radical and anti-oxidant to a 4 year old?
Enjoy the story
=======================================
Starring :
Free Radical as the thief;
Antioxidant as the police;
Vitamins & Minerals as the builders
Crime Scene:
Your body cell as the house.
The Story:
The free radical is the thief that goes around to steal things from your body cells a.k.a the house. What do they steal? They steal molecules from the cells and in the process, the cells are damaged.
The antioxidant is like the police. They will go round to hunt down the thief. When the antioxidant catches the free radical, they will donate a molecule to the free radical so that the free radical stops going round to destroy the cells. But, the police cannot finish catching all the thieves, so there will be some cells which will be damaged.
Now, it is time for the grand entrance of our builder heros a.k.a vitamins & minerals. They will provide the raw materials for the body to repair itself.
Oxidative stress happens when there are more damages than repairs. Over a period of 10 - 20 years, this can potentially lead to faster aging and degenerative diseases (cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart diseases etc).
*** End of Story ***
Food for thought...
We should be getting our vitamins and minerals from our food. But really how much are you consuming of the right type of food? What did you have for your 3 meals today?
Here is a typical menu for a day:
breakfast : bread and coffee
lunch : fishball noodles
dinner : vegetables, meat and rice
Antioxidants, vitamins & minerals come from FRESH fruits and vegetables. So how fresh is our food based on the typical menu for a day?
Hope you enjoyed this story! :)
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Graduated!
My son has graduated!.... errr.... from K2 only lah. But there is graduation gown, motar cap, fanfare, scroll etc. Like the real thing right?
Let me count... still have to wait another 18 years for the real thing leh... never mind, just take it as the preview. :P
The school had a graduation cum concert. The theme of the Concert is "Wonderfully Made" this year. Really must give credit to his teacher, Tr Iris for putting in so much effort in coming up with this dance item, Adam & Eve. Really not easy. There is choreographing, rehearsing and coaching the kids to come up with such a magnificent performance. I see already very 感动.
No wonder, my Jiaheng a.k.a. Adam kept asking me "Mommy, do you know what is love?" while he was preparing for the concert. Now I know why.
-- posted by Mommy
Let me count... still have to wait another 18 years for the real thing leh... never mind, just take it as the preview. :P
The school had a graduation cum concert. The theme of the Concert is "Wonderfully Made" this year. Really must give credit to his teacher, Tr Iris for putting in so much effort in coming up with this dance item, Adam & Eve. Really not easy. There is choreographing, rehearsing and coaching the kids to come up with such a magnificent performance. I see already very 感动.
No wonder, my Jiaheng a.k.a. Adam kept asking me "Mommy, do you know what is love?" while he was preparing for the concert. Now I know why.
-- posted by Mommy
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
这样的儿子哪里找？
女儿的三岁生日要到了。 回想起刚出世的她， 小脸蛋上印着黑黑的一片瘀青。那时看了又心痛又担心， 害怕那不是瘀青而是胎记。医生一再安慰我说那是接生时用钳子夹她出来留下的。但是还是担心的要死。直到那瘀青散了才安心。
唉。。。做父母的总是为孩子操心这， 操心那的。养儿一百岁，长忧九十九，可能就是这个意思吧。
我们从澳洲回来就开始筹备女儿的party。虽然只是在家里举办，也只是请了immediate family members 但是也不可以太马虎。主要是布置家里和准备goodie bags 和食物。 就这些也够忙的我团团转。
Party 结束后， 我真的好累好累。女儿睡了后， 我告诉家亨说妈妈好累要进房休息， 而且脚板好酸痛， 要他帮我拿一只捶脚的棒来。没想到， 我躺在床上感觉到有人在帮我捶脚。还真舒服， 儿子you are so sweet。 我也真是累了， 加上儿子的superb service， 不知不觉的睡着了。当我忽然间醒来时， 儿子还在帮我捶脚。On top of that， 他还开了风扇吹我， 怕我热。 哎哟， 当下的我好感动啊！ 儿子你真孝顺。
过后跟老公说起这件事， 老公说 “这样的儿子哪里找？” And I totally agree， we are so blessed。
--- posted by Mommy
唉。。。做父母的总是为孩子操心这， 操心那的。养儿一百岁，长忧九十九，可能就是这个意思吧。
我们从澳洲回来就开始筹备女儿的party。虽然只是在家里举办，也只是请了immediate family members 但是也不可以太马虎。主要是布置家里和准备goodie bags 和食物。 就这些也够忙的我团团转。
Party 结束后， 我真的好累好累。女儿睡了后， 我告诉家亨说妈妈好累要进房休息， 而且脚板好酸痛， 要他帮我拿一只捶脚的棒来。没想到， 我躺在床上感觉到有人在帮我捶脚。还真舒服， 儿子you are so sweet。 我也真是累了， 加上儿子的superb service， 不知不觉的睡着了。当我忽然间醒来时， 儿子还在帮我捶脚。On top of that， 他还开了风扇吹我， 怕我热。 哎哟， 当下的我好感动啊！ 儿子你真孝顺。
过后跟老公说起这件事， 老公说 “这样的儿子哪里找？” And I totally agree， we are so blessed。
--- posted by Mommy
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
sailing...kangaroos... Perth
My wife and I spent 4 wonderful days in Perth, Australia. This is my first time in Perth and the second time for Tse Wern.
It was a fully-packed 4 days, with activities arranged neck-to-neck. We were given the best lodging, the best food, the best treatment, the best experience. 4 days of great learning from inspiring leaders and 4 days of great fun.
Our hotel was next to a beach. The coastline is so long that it seems that it is never going to end. The sand was white and the sea was shades of blue and turquoise. The food is good just that there is no Chinese food for the 4 days in Perth. Yup! No wanton noodles, no chee cheong fun, no nasi lemak. Still, the food is tasty and most of the time grilled or boiled so very healthy.
We got a chance to do a dinner cruise at Swan Lake to admire the skyline along the coast as the boat cruised down the calm waters. And on the last night, we experienced a Gala Dinner. Yes, I know we must be super formal for Gala Dinner but I did not put on a tuxedo, just settled for a suit. But, my dear wife made a great fuss over what she will be wearing. Husbands out there, you will know what I mean. :P
How can a trip to Australia be complete without a visit to the kangaroos? They are very gentle and friendly animals. I was feeding one super active kangaroo and when I turned to leave, it actually reached out to clutch my hand. See how charming I am, even a kangaroo cannot resist me. :P
If you asked me what is one thing I remember most about Perth.... I will say its Sailing!
We were told that people in Perth love sailing. And we got first hand experience in doing that. It was thrilling. Our boat was travelling at about 20 knots and the wind direction kept changing that afternoon and we were like changing sides ever so often! There were a few times when I really thought that someone is going to drop into the water as the boat went like near 150 degree down into the water on one side.
I really marvel at how our boat captain can sail a boat single-handedly. I mean there were like 6 people working together to get our boat moving. When it was time to turn, one person got to release the rope on one side, the other got to tighten the rope on the other. Then one person got to ease the sail in the middle of the boat and one more got to steer. Not to mention, we need someone to tighten the wench when the rope is being tightened. Just so much action going on ALL AT THE SAME TIME! It was chaotic but FUN!
Definitely a good trip.
It was a fully-packed 4 days, with activities arranged neck-to-neck. We were given the best lodging, the best food, the best treatment, the best experience. 4 days of great learning from inspiring leaders and 4 days of great fun.
Our hotel was next to a beach. The coastline is so long that it seems that it is never going to end. The sand was white and the sea was shades of blue and turquoise. The food is good just that there is no Chinese food for the 4 days in Perth. Yup! No wanton noodles, no chee cheong fun, no nasi lemak. Still, the food is tasty and most of the time grilled or boiled so very healthy.
We got a chance to do a dinner cruise at Swan Lake to admire the skyline along the coast as the boat cruised down the calm waters. And on the last night, we experienced a Gala Dinner. Yes, I know we must be super formal for Gala Dinner but I did not put on a tuxedo, just settled for a suit. But, my dear wife made a great fuss over what she will be wearing. Husbands out there, you will know what I mean. :P
How can a trip to Australia be complete without a visit to the kangaroos? They are very gentle and friendly animals. I was feeding one super active kangaroo and when I turned to leave, it actually reached out to clutch my hand. See how charming I am, even a kangaroo cannot resist me. :P
If you asked me what is one thing I remember most about Perth.... I will say its Sailing!
We were told that people in Perth love sailing. And we got first hand experience in doing that. It was thrilling. Our boat was travelling at about 20 knots and the wind direction kept changing that afternoon and we were like changing sides ever so often! There were a few times when I really thought that someone is going to drop into the water as the boat went like near 150 degree down into the water on one side.
I really marvel at how our boat captain can sail a boat single-handedly. I mean there were like 6 people working together to get our boat moving. When it was time to turn, one person got to release the rope on one side, the other got to tighten the rope on the other. Then one person got to ease the sail in the middle of the boat and one more got to steer. Not to mention, we need someone to tighten the wench when the rope is being tightened. Just so much action going on ALL AT THE SAME TIME! It was chaotic but FUN!
Definitely a good trip.
Afternote: Cheers To Good Gut Health
I mentioned in my earlier blog that taking antibiotics upsets the balance of good bacteria in our gut system.
Quite a few friends told me that they DO NOT take antibiotics as they know that antibiotics do them no good in the long run. But little do they know that everyone is taking antibiotics whether or not they like it or not. How is that so? Cos the meat that we take consume contains antibiotics. Nowadays, it is common practice to inject the live foal and poultry with antibiotics and these will then be passed to us when we consume meat. Scary isn't it?
That is why I am trying to turn vegan now. Will share with you more in my later blogs.
Quite a few friends told me that they DO NOT take antibiotics as they know that antibiotics do them no good in the long run. But little do they know that everyone is taking antibiotics whether or not they like it or not. How is that so? Cos the meat that we take consume contains antibiotics. Nowadays, it is common practice to inject the live foal and poultry with antibiotics and these will then be passed to us when we consume meat. Scary isn't it?
That is why I am trying to turn vegan now. Will share with you more in my later blogs.
Monday, November 02, 2009
Cheers to Good Gut Health
I have come to understand that good gut health is very important... the hard way.
My wife used to have very bad morning sickness when she was expecting our first child. She will not only throw up in the morning but also throughout the day. We always joked that perhaps it can't be classified as morning sickness but all-day sickness (of course after her 1st trimester when her vomitting ceased, as if she had the mood to joke when she is "merlion-ing")
The anti-nausea pills prescribed by her gyanae didn't help. So, we resorted to alternative medicine. The natural therapist gave her probiotics and from there I learnt that probiotics are beneficial bacteria that keeps your gut healthy. Sounds yucky right, taking BACTERIA! But good ones of course. Yup! that's right. You need GOOD bacteria in your gut to have a healthy you.
When you have a healthy gut, you can digest food, absorb food nutrients and have a better immunity. That was the first time I really understood probiotics and the need for good probiotics to maintain good health. That was a good 7 years ago. And I have been hoping to find a good probiotics in the market.
To begin with, everyone has good bacteria in their gut. Problems start to occur when these good bacteria starts to reduce. Apparently, consumption of antibiotics wipe out all the bacteria in the gut, whether good or bad and that badly upsets the condition in the gut. Also, stress, illness, poor diet, lack of rest, environmental conditions, low water consumption will greatly affect the good bacteria in your gut. I guess the more I know, the more I know I need a good probiotics.
Whenever, I think of probiotics, the image of Felicia Chin holding that bottle of V****** saying how the live prebiotics culture helps in keeping you healthy pops up (not that I am a fan of Felicia, but the fact of how misleading advertisement can be scares me). The fact that V****** has sugar in it already greatly discounts the fact that the bottle is going to help you. Cos sugar is actually food for the bad bacteria! To me, the sugar is more for marketing purposes and to appeal to the public more than having any real functions.
Later, I also learnt that is getting good bacteria to reach our intestines is really not an easy task. When we feed good bacteria through our mouth, it first needs to survive the very acidic conditions in our stomach. Those strains of probiotics that survive this first cut will then make their way down our intestines. Most strains of probiotics will already die while making the long journey down your intestines. When the probiotics reach the intestines, it makes no point for them to just sit around there. They need to multiple themselves to create the balance in our gut system.
Not all probiotics are created equal. And only a handful of strains can actually achieve the feat of surviving the long journey down the gut system. Ha ha, my chance to impress you (*wink wink*) You will need the strains of probiotics under the LGG and BB-12 to really get the good benefits of live probiotics you take. So next time, you consume yogurt or some other probiotics, turn to the ingredients to look out for these star strains.
While we take the probiotics daily to maintain our good gut health and to increase our immunity, sometimes, I wonder if it really helps. I do notice much less burpy, much less bloated feeling after meals, much less gas output (if you know what I mean). But I can't possibly cut myself open to see if the good bacteria is growing or not right!
I guess the ultimate test for me was when my mum-in-law had upset stomach yesterday. She told me that she had already been to the toilet for a couple of times and still having diarrhea and pain in the abdomen. I asked her to take 1 pack of the probiotics that contain the star strains. Half an hour later, viola! She says the pain and the gas in her abdomen is gone. She didn't have to visit the toilet after that the whole day.
It's amazing how the good bacteria works and I am glad I found a good brand of probiotics that work! Will be happy to recommend to you too.
My wife used to have very bad morning sickness when she was expecting our first child. She will not only throw up in the morning but also throughout the day. We always joked that perhaps it can't be classified as morning sickness but all-day sickness (of course after her 1st trimester when her vomitting ceased, as if she had the mood to joke when she is "merlion-ing")
The anti-nausea pills prescribed by her gyanae didn't help. So, we resorted to alternative medicine. The natural therapist gave her probiotics and from there I learnt that probiotics are beneficial bacteria that keeps your gut healthy. Sounds yucky right, taking BACTERIA! But good ones of course. Yup! that's right. You need GOOD bacteria in your gut to have a healthy you.
When you have a healthy gut, you can digest food, absorb food nutrients and have a better immunity. That was the first time I really understood probiotics and the need for good probiotics to maintain good health. That was a good 7 years ago. And I have been hoping to find a good probiotics in the market.
To begin with, everyone has good bacteria in their gut. Problems start to occur when these good bacteria starts to reduce. Apparently, consumption of antibiotics wipe out all the bacteria in the gut, whether good or bad and that badly upsets the condition in the gut. Also, stress, illness, poor diet, lack of rest, environmental conditions, low water consumption will greatly affect the good bacteria in your gut. I guess the more I know, the more I know I need a good probiotics.
Whenever, I think of probiotics, the image of Felicia Chin holding that bottle of V****** saying how the live prebiotics culture helps in keeping you healthy pops up (not that I am a fan of Felicia, but the fact of how misleading advertisement can be scares me). The fact that V****** has sugar in it already greatly discounts the fact that the bottle is going to help you. Cos sugar is actually food for the bad bacteria! To me, the sugar is more for marketing purposes and to appeal to the public more than having any real functions.
Later, I also learnt that is getting good bacteria to reach our intestines is really not an easy task. When we feed good bacteria through our mouth, it first needs to survive the very acidic conditions in our stomach. Those strains of probiotics that survive this first cut will then make their way down our intestines. Most strains of probiotics will already die while making the long journey down your intestines. When the probiotics reach the intestines, it makes no point for them to just sit around there. They need to multiple themselves to create the balance in our gut system.
Not all probiotics are created equal. And only a handful of strains can actually achieve the feat of surviving the long journey down the gut system. Ha ha, my chance to impress you (*wink wink*) You will need the strains of probiotics under the LGG and BB-12 to really get the good benefits of live probiotics you take. So next time, you consume yogurt or some other probiotics, turn to the ingredients to look out for these star strains.
While we take the probiotics daily to maintain our good gut health and to increase our immunity, sometimes, I wonder if it really helps. I do notice much less burpy, much less bloated feeling after meals, much less gas output (if you know what I mean). But I can't possibly cut myself open to see if the good bacteria is growing or not right!
I guess the ultimate test for me was when my mum-in-law had upset stomach yesterday. She told me that she had already been to the toilet for a couple of times and still having diarrhea and pain in the abdomen. I asked her to take 1 pack of the probiotics that contain the star strains. Half an hour later, viola! She says the pain and the gas in her abdomen is gone. She didn't have to visit the toilet after that the whole day.
It's amazing how the good bacteria works and I am glad I found a good brand of probiotics that work! Will be happy to recommend to you too.
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
是宝还是草？
我周遭的朋友都当他们的孩子是个宝。都是爸爸妈妈心头的一块肉， 掌心里的宝。
那是多么幸福的一件事。 甚至可以说是多么幸运的一件事。 孩子一生下来， 并不能够选择自己的父母是谁。父母也一样。 能够成为一家人是多么难得的事。为什么有些孩子能那样幸福， 有些却不能？
老公下楼买完东西后对我讲述他看见的一幕。听了觉得好心酸。
老公下楼时已是将近凌晨十二点了。那位小女孩就躺在两张并排的咖啡店塑胶椅子上睡觉。样子看上去，那小女孩只不过五，六岁大。她的妈妈就坐在旁边跟别人喝酒，聊天。试想想，在那时候，自己的孩子会在哪儿？在梦乡作着甜美的梦吗？ 还是躺在妈妈温暖的怀抱里睡着？
那为什么有些孩子就要在露天的冷椅子上过夜?
当老公买完东西时， 刚好那位妈妈正要回家了。只见那妈妈又是大呼小叫，又是恐吓。什么你还不起来，我就不带你回家。什么你还不起来，就把你送给uncle。见孩子半梦半醒间，动作缓慢，那妈妈不是揪，就是打。
我一听，立刻觉得火冒三丈。冷静下来时，又为那小女孩感到心酸。我们的孩子是那么那么的幸福啊。我自己也是那么那么的幸福。真庆幸有那么疼爱自己的爸爸妈妈。
我知道我是我父母的宝。家亨和怿萱也是Kai Hock 跟我的宝。
--- posted by Mommy
那是多么幸福的一件事。 甚至可以说是多么幸运的一件事。 孩子一生下来， 并不能够选择自己的父母是谁。父母也一样。 能够成为一家人是多么难得的事。为什么有些孩子能那样幸福， 有些却不能？
老公下楼买完东西后对我讲述他看见的一幕。听了觉得好心酸。
老公下楼时已是将近凌晨十二点了。那位小女孩就躺在两张并排的咖啡店塑胶椅子上睡觉。样子看上去，那小女孩只不过五，六岁大。她的妈妈就坐在旁边跟别人喝酒，聊天。试想想，在那时候，自己的孩子会在哪儿？在梦乡作着甜美的梦吗？ 还是躺在妈妈温暖的怀抱里睡着？
那为什么有些孩子就要在露天的冷椅子上过夜?
当老公买完东西时， 刚好那位妈妈正要回家了。只见那妈妈又是大呼小叫，又是恐吓。什么你还不起来，我就不带你回家。什么你还不起来，就把你送给uncle。见孩子半梦半醒间，动作缓慢，那妈妈不是揪，就是打。
我一听，立刻觉得火冒三丈。冷静下来时，又为那小女孩感到心酸。我们的孩子是那么那么的幸福啊。我自己也是那么那么的幸福。真庆幸有那么疼爱自己的爸爸妈妈。
我知道我是我父母的宝。家亨和怿萱也是Kai Hock 跟我的宝。
--- posted by Mommy
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
What I love...
The view on the 19th floor from our unit is simply great. From the Abundance Room, we can see the Southern landmarks of Singapore. To name a few, we can see The Singapore Flyer, The Concourse, UOB building, Swissotel The Stamford, Singapore.
I love gazing at the lights coming from the tall buildings at night, patches of red, yellow and blue littered all over the skyline. The lights look especially charming and bright when I switch off the lights in our home. When the eyes got adjusted to the darkness, the view before my eyes becomes more prominent. It does give me a sense of serenity looking at the night scene in the silence of the night.
I love looking at the raindrops falling down from the sky. When I look up into the sky, it looks like streams of water coming out of a watering can. When the wind changes direction, it guides the rainwater from left to right and then left again, as if the wind is guiding the raindrops in a dance of Waltz. When the wind gets stronger, they changed the dancesteps from a graceful Waltz to a passionate Tango.
I love looking at our 2 babies lying sound asleep on their beds in their own room. I love looking at their faces while they sleep. I love looking at their relaxed features on their faces. So lovely.
------ posted by Mommy
I love gazing at the lights coming from the tall buildings at night, patches of red, yellow and blue littered all over the skyline. The lights look especially charming and bright when I switch off the lights in our home. When the eyes got adjusted to the darkness, the view before my eyes becomes more prominent. It does give me a sense of serenity looking at the night scene in the silence of the night.
I love looking at the raindrops falling down from the sky. When I look up into the sky, it looks like streams of water coming out of a watering can. When the wind changes direction, it guides the rainwater from left to right and then left again, as if the wind is guiding the raindrops in a dance of Waltz. When the wind gets stronger, they changed the dancesteps from a graceful Waltz to a passionate Tango.
I love looking at our 2 babies lying sound asleep on their beds in their own room. I love looking at their faces while they sleep. I love looking at their relaxed features on their faces. So lovely.
------ posted by Mommy
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Sleep Talk
While unpacking the 50+ boxes we brought from our old place, I uncovered a book that I store away long time ago called "Sleep Talk".
I used to do sleep talk to Jiaheng when he was younger to train him to sleep more soundly. It seemed to work. Kai Hock's buddy also had some positive experiences with sleep talk when he used it to combat bitting habit for his twins.
As the first page of the book suggests "SLEEP TALK - A breakthrough Technique For Helping Your Child Cope With Stress And Thrive Through Difficult Transitions".
It seems to be all encompassing isn't it. It has Sleep Talk for Picky Eater, Sleep Talk for Sleeping, Sleep Talk for Toilet Training, Sleep Talk for Manners, Sleep Talk for Fingernail biting etc etc. It covers Sleep Talk for various stages of a child, Infants to Adolescence.
The way Sleep Talk works is to make use of the child's awareness of sounds during sleep. At a particular stage of their sleep, the parent will read a script to the child. The script will address a particular issue with the child. It is believed that at the stage of deepest sleep of the child, the child will be very aware of sounds and the script will offer the child alternatives to his present behavior that may result in greater success.
The book even provides scripts meant for addressing various issues. How thoughtful. This book is definitely worth exploring.
Give you a sample:
The following script is for addressing Bet-Wetting issue:
"Damon, this is your mum.
I just want to let you know how much I love you.
I just want you to know how proud I am that you are my son.
I want to let you know how proud of you I am when you wake up in the morning and your pajamas are dry.
When you wake up, you have plenty of time to get to the toilet.
I appreciate it when your bedsheets and you are dry.
I am proud of you because I know that you are proud of yourself.
It does not matter where you spend the night - you wake up in a dry bed.
Thank you for being my son.
I love you so very much.
Sweet Dreams"
The author of the book is Lois Haddad, R. N. Why not check out this book if you have done all you possibly could for your child but still does not see desirable result?
------- posted by Mommy
I used to do sleep talk to Jiaheng when he was younger to train him to sleep more soundly. It seemed to work. Kai Hock's buddy also had some positive experiences with sleep talk when he used it to combat bitting habit for his twins.
As the first page of the book suggests "SLEEP TALK - A breakthrough Technique For Helping Your Child Cope With Stress And Thrive Through Difficult Transitions".
It seems to be all encompassing isn't it. It has Sleep Talk for Picky Eater, Sleep Talk for Sleeping, Sleep Talk for Toilet Training, Sleep Talk for Manners, Sleep Talk for Fingernail biting etc etc. It covers Sleep Talk for various stages of a child, Infants to Adolescence.
The way Sleep Talk works is to make use of the child's awareness of sounds during sleep. At a particular stage of their sleep, the parent will read a script to the child. The script will address a particular issue with the child. It is believed that at the stage of deepest sleep of the child, the child will be very aware of sounds and the script will offer the child alternatives to his present behavior that may result in greater success.
The book even provides scripts meant for addressing various issues. How thoughtful. This book is definitely worth exploring.
Give you a sample:
The following script is for addressing Bet-Wetting issue:
"Damon, this is your mum.
I just want to let you know how much I love you.
I just want you to know how proud I am that you are my son.
I want to let you know how proud of you I am when you wake up in the morning and your pajamas are dry.
When you wake up, you have plenty of time to get to the toilet.
I appreciate it when your bedsheets and you are dry.
I am proud of you because I know that you are proud of yourself.
It does not matter where you spend the night - you wake up in a dry bed.
Thank you for being my son.
I love you so very much.
Sweet Dreams"
The author of the book is Lois Haddad, R. N. Why not check out this book if you have done all you possibly could for your child but still does not see desirable result?
------- posted by Mommy
Enjoying our new home
The first thing that captured our hearts when we first saw our new home was the spectacular night view. And the best part is that we can see all the way South to the Singapore Flyer.
I chose the room that faces the Singapore Flyer as my work room and the children and I have voted to name it the "Abundance Room".
The children decided that their room will be called the "Fun Room". Our living room is the "Joy Room" and the Master bedroom is the "Love Room".
The children have settled down very well in the new home. In fact, they slept through the night on the very first night in our new home. They are so fascinated by everything in the new home. From the storage compartments under their beds to the lighting in the home.
And of course, one very good advantage of living in a mature estate is the accessibility to various kinds of shopping and food. From medical halls to laundry shops to saloons to bakery, you name it, we have it all here. Now, we are TRULY home-based. Besides, running our home-based business, there is not much reason to travel far from home to get our necessities settled.
We love our new home and is enjoying every moment of it here. We have bid good bye to our first love in Serangoon and will now build another loving relationship with this new home in Toa Payoh.
I chose the room that faces the Singapore Flyer as my work room and the children and I have voted to name it the "Abundance Room".
The children decided that their room will be called the "Fun Room". Our living room is the "Joy Room" and the Master bedroom is the "Love Room".
The children have settled down very well in the new home. In fact, they slept through the night on the very first night in our new home. They are so fascinated by everything in the new home. From the storage compartments under their beds to the lighting in the home.
And of course, one very good advantage of living in a mature estate is the accessibility to various kinds of shopping and food. From medical halls to laundry shops to saloons to bakery, you name it, we have it all here. Now, we are TRULY home-based. Besides, running our home-based business, there is not much reason to travel far from home to get our necessities settled.
We love our new home and is enjoying every moment of it here. We have bid good bye to our first love in Serangoon and will now build another loving relationship with this new home in Toa Payoh.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Our Girl's 1st day in school
Kai Hock and I decided to start Yixuan's school in the middle of the year as we wanted our little baby to stay home with us a little longer. But the little one is more eager to take flight. Yixuan kept saying that she wants to go school like her big brother so we decided it is time to let her go.
Today is Yixuan's first day in school. Based on Jiaheng excellent track records on his first day in school, I was hoping that it will also be easy for me this time round for Yixuan.
The afternoon session children were gathered in a room while waiting for the morning session children to dismiss. Yixuan looked so grown up and solemn sitting on the mat cross-legged. I was glad that she doesn't look anxious about the first day in school. Like what the Papa always say... Mama always seems more "kan cheong" than the little one. Sigh! What to do? Mama always worries the most.
When the teachers came to fetch the children from their respective classes, Yixuan said "Mummy go outside and wait, cannot come in". I was taken aback when I heard her, but it is a good opportunity for me to stay out and observe if she can do it herself. I quickly jumped on the opportunity and 'obediently' did what I was told. *double wink*.
I felt so sneaky and sheepish trying to peep from the outside window to see how Yixuan was doing. On one hand, I tried to let her go. On the other hand, I was dying to see how she is coping in the classroom. So in the end, got to end up spying on her. The moment I thought she is going to see me, I had to duck. Aiyoh! Can really pull my hair off... try to be cool lah... let her go in herself lah.
Luckily for both of us, Yixuan seems to blend into the environment very quickly. When the class teacher introduced her to the class, she very cooperatively and calmly stood next to the teacher, facing the class. During her lesson time, I can see from her back that she is sitting up very straight and cross-legged. Even though, I cannot see her face expression, I can already visualise her trying her best to appear serious.
After about 15 minutes, the moment of release came! The teacher started to play a song and I was simply tickled seeing Yixuan's pony tail sway vigourously left and right as she moves her head left and right to the beat of the song. Ahhh... this image suits my little girl more, she just comes alive when music is played.
Then it was break time, followed by toilet break, followed by outdoor play. Again, I did not follow her in as she seems to be coping good. I tell myself to restrain my impulse to sit in with her. Why ruin her eagerness to be independent? I can reassure you that it is not easy for this Mummy to just let go. But ultimately, I am glad I persisted.
It seems like eons before she reached her last period. Mummy's neck cannot stretch any longer after all the peeping sessions.
I am so proud of my little girl for having adapted so well on her first day of school and am so proud of myself for having SURVIVED her first day. :) And of course, I must thank Yixuan for making it an easy day for Mama.
------ posted by Mommy
Today is Yixuan's first day in school. Based on Jiaheng excellent track records on his first day in school, I was hoping that it will also be easy for me this time round for Yixuan.
The afternoon session children were gathered in a room while waiting for the morning session children to dismiss. Yixuan looked so grown up and solemn sitting on the mat cross-legged. I was glad that she doesn't look anxious about the first day in school. Like what the Papa always say... Mama always seems more "kan cheong" than the little one. Sigh! What to do? Mama always worries the most.
When the teachers came to fetch the children from their respective classes, Yixuan said "Mummy go outside and wait, cannot come in". I was taken aback when I heard her, but it is a good opportunity for me to stay out and observe if she can do it herself. I quickly jumped on the opportunity and 'obediently' did what I was told. *double wink*.
I felt so sneaky and sheepish trying to peep from the outside window to see how Yixuan was doing. On one hand, I tried to let her go. On the other hand, I was dying to see how she is coping in the classroom. So in the end, got to end up spying on her. The moment I thought she is going to see me, I had to duck. Aiyoh! Can really pull my hair off... try to be cool lah... let her go in herself lah.
Luckily for both of us, Yixuan seems to blend into the environment very quickly. When the class teacher introduced her to the class, she very cooperatively and calmly stood next to the teacher, facing the class. During her lesson time, I can see from her back that she is sitting up very straight and cross-legged. Even though, I cannot see her face expression, I can already visualise her trying her best to appear serious.
After about 15 minutes, the moment of release came! The teacher started to play a song and I was simply tickled seeing Yixuan's pony tail sway vigourously left and right as she moves her head left and right to the beat of the song. Ahhh... this image suits my little girl more, she just comes alive when music is played.
Then it was break time, followed by toilet break, followed by outdoor play. Again, I did not follow her in as she seems to be coping good. I tell myself to restrain my impulse to sit in with her. Why ruin her eagerness to be independent? I can reassure you that it is not easy for this Mummy to just let go. But ultimately, I am glad I persisted.
It seems like eons before she reached her last period. Mummy's neck cannot stretch any longer after all the peeping sessions.
I am so proud of my little girl for having adapted so well on her first day of school and am so proud of myself for having SURVIVED her first day. :) And of course, I must thank Yixuan for making it an easy day for Mama.
------ posted by Mommy
Monday, June 22, 2009
我们的第一个十年
我觉得我是幸运的。在茫茫人海中能遇到我的老公。
老公， 你常说只要我开心， 你就开心。在结婚十周年的今天，你准备了一连串的惊喜给我， 真的让我有些招架不住，受宠若惊。我要告诉你， 我真的玩得很开心， 只是不好意思让你整天都在做陪客， 一直在等我。
我知道你为了今天的节目筹备了有两个多月。真的很谢谢你为我所做的一切。正如那 nail therapist 所说。。。you are so sweet。 连老板娘都那么觉得呢， 你几棒一点哦。 说真的，那不知道 next destination 是哪里的感觉还挺好的。 我是个典型的 planning 派， 总要策划， 准备， 以防万一。 久了都觉得有些闷。 今天， 那种被你带着走的感觉真好。
老公，你常说我很好养， 花费少。 既不喜欢逛街又不喜欢买东西。 所以你就把这十年累计的一切奢侈一天内全给了我吗？ 你是知道我是个不爱乱花钱的人， 虽然不至于是个守财奴但算一算今天的花费也是会觉得心痛 （ 老毛病， 改不了）。 就这一次好了。 ：）
我会记得这十周年的一天。 这只是我们的第一个十周年， 还有第二个， 第三个， 第四个， 第五个， 第六个。。。 要对你说的是今天的每个节目都让我很感动， 但最让我感动的是你许下的那个愿望。 放心！ 我们一定会做到的。 要白头到老哦！
老公， 你常说只要我开心， 你就开心。在结婚十周年的今天，你准备了一连串的惊喜给我， 真的让我有些招架不住，受宠若惊。我要告诉你， 我真的玩得很开心， 只是不好意思让你整天都在做陪客， 一直在等我。
我知道你为了今天的节目筹备了有两个多月。真的很谢谢你为我所做的一切。正如那 nail therapist 所说。。。you are so sweet。 连老板娘都那么觉得呢， 你几棒一点哦。 说真的，那不知道 next destination 是哪里的感觉还挺好的。 我是个典型的 planning 派， 总要策划， 准备， 以防万一。 久了都觉得有些闷。 今天， 那种被你带着走的感觉真好。
老公，你常说我很好养， 花费少。 既不喜欢逛街又不喜欢买东西。 所以你就把这十年累计的一切奢侈一天内全给了我吗？ 你是知道我是个不爱乱花钱的人， 虽然不至于是个守财奴但算一算今天的花费也是会觉得心痛 （ 老毛病， 改不了）。 就这一次好了。 ：）
我会记得这十周年的一天。 这只是我们的第一个十周年， 还有第二个， 第三个， 第四个， 第五个， 第六个。。。 要对你说的是今天的每个节目都让我很感动， 但最让我感动的是你许下的那个愿望。 放心！ 我们一定会做到的。 要白头到老哦！
Friday, June 05, 2009
Our Comical Family Tree
At the breakfast table this morning, Jiaheng & I were trying to sort out the relationships among our relatives for Yixuan. E.g: Who is Papa's Mama? Who is Mama's Papa? etc
I suppose Jiaheng and I didn't do a good job cos the little girl seems pretty confused. In the end, I decided to draw out a simplified family tree for her.
(Stage 1 : Basic) Only drew Kai Hock, me and Jiaheng and Yixuan. (and of course, must draw long hair for the girl and punky hair for the boy) Simple questions just revolving Kai Hock, me, Jiaheng and Yixuan were asked to check for understanding. The results .... 100%! yeh! Pass with flying colours.
(Stage 2 : Intermediate) I added in 阿公, 阿媽(the paternal grandparents), 公公 and 婆婆 (the maternal grandparents). Somehow, the little girl seems to think that 阿公 is my father instead of 公公. So mummy has no choice but to put in some distinction to the drawing. This girl is really pushing her mummy's drawing skills to the limit (as if there were any to start off with :P)
So I drew a strawberry next to 阿公 (cos 阿公 is our faithful strawberry supplier to make the little princess happy). And I drew a moustache on the icon symbolising 公公 (and Jiaheng was simply tickled when he saw the moustache I drew... hmmm... is it really that funny??)
Ah... this distinction seems to do the trick and the little girl cleared Stage 2 too. Seems like Mummy has not forgotten what she learnt while teaching to start off with concrete examples and move towards abstract association.
(Stage 3 : Advanced) Actually, I was a bit reluctant to proceed to Advanced stage. Thot of just letting the information seep in for the little girl but Jiaheng just kept encouraging us to continue. So, we added in 3 姑姑 and 1 舅舅. Conclusion... Blur.
Stage 3 failed. Kua Kua Kua... Never mind, we can always try again next time with more people added to the family tree. A long list to go : 大姑丈，二姑丈， 大表哥， 二表哥， 三表哥， 表弟， 舅妈， 太婆， 曾祖父， 曾祖母。
One thing I am grateful is that my mum-in-law insists that we address our elders according to their seniority. Hence the many terms. She always says "Don't call auntie and uncle. Must call properly. There are so many uncles and aunties in the streets."
P.S. In case you are wondering why 舅舅 has rounded ears, his is a fan of Mickey, that's why.
--------posted by Mommy
I suppose Jiaheng and I didn't do a good job cos the little girl seems pretty confused. In the end, I decided to draw out a simplified family tree for her.
(Stage 1 : Basic) Only drew Kai Hock, me and Jiaheng and Yixuan. (and of course, must draw long hair for the girl and punky hair for the boy) Simple questions just revolving Kai Hock, me, Jiaheng and Yixuan were asked to check for understanding. The results .... 100%! yeh! Pass with flying colours.
(Stage 2 : Intermediate) I added in 阿公, 阿媽(the paternal grandparents), 公公 and 婆婆 (the maternal grandparents). Somehow, the little girl seems to think that 阿公 is my father instead of 公公. So mummy has no choice but to put in some distinction to the drawing. This girl is really pushing her mummy's drawing skills to the limit (as if there were any to start off with :P)
So I drew a strawberry next to 阿公 (cos 阿公 is our faithful strawberry supplier to make the little princess happy). And I drew a moustache on the icon symbolising 公公 (and Jiaheng was simply tickled when he saw the moustache I drew... hmmm... is it really that funny??)
Ah... this distinction seems to do the trick and the little girl cleared Stage 2 too. Seems like Mummy has not forgotten what she learnt while teaching to start off with concrete examples and move towards abstract association.
(Stage 3 : Advanced) Actually, I was a bit reluctant to proceed to Advanced stage. Thot of just letting the information seep in for the little girl but Jiaheng just kept encouraging us to continue. So, we added in 3 姑姑 and 1 舅舅. Conclusion... Blur.
Stage 3 failed. Kua Kua Kua... Never mind, we can always try again next time with more people added to the family tree. A long list to go : 大姑丈，二姑丈， 大表哥， 二表哥， 三表哥， 表弟， 舅妈， 太婆， 曾祖父， 曾祖母。
One thing I am grateful is that my mum-in-law insists that we address our elders according to their seniority. Hence the many terms. She always says "Don't call auntie and uncle. Must call properly. There are so many uncles and aunties in the streets."
P.S. In case you are wondering why 舅舅 has rounded ears, his is a fan of Mickey, that's why.
--------posted by Mommy
Reaping the fruits
We started Jiaheng on his Money Jars when he was younger and kept encouraging him to keep this good habit of money management.
We even increased his allowance from $1 a day to $1.50 when he turned six. (inflation, you know? ^^) In fact, he has been using money from his NESS (Necessity) jar to pay for his school's excursion fees and even his Yakult-Milk scheme in school.
Today is Kai Hock's birthday and Jiaheng very generously decided to use his NESS funds to buy Papa a birthday cake. After counting the coins for a good 20-mins, he handed me a big pile of coins to exchange for two $10 bills. Coupled with another $10 bills in the jar, Jiaheng said that he will like to get a $30 cake for Papa.
It is one whole month of savings for him. Everyday, without fail, he will recite his Dizigui by himself and then ask for his $1.50 savings ($1 in NESS , $0.30 in FFA , $0.20 in GIVE)
Now it is time to reap the fruits :) Keep up the persistency and consistency. Mommy knows that they will serve you well when you grow up.
---- posted by Mommy
We even increased his allowance from $1 a day to $1.50 when he turned six. (inflation, you know? ^^) In fact, he has been using money from his NESS (Necessity) jar to pay for his school's excursion fees and even his Yakult-Milk scheme in school.
Today is Kai Hock's birthday and Jiaheng very generously decided to use his NESS funds to buy Papa a birthday cake. After counting the coins for a good 20-mins, he handed me a big pile of coins to exchange for two $10 bills. Coupled with another $10 bills in the jar, Jiaheng said that he will like to get a $30 cake for Papa.
It is one whole month of savings for him. Everyday, without fail, he will recite his Dizigui by himself and then ask for his $1.50 savings ($1 in NESS , $0.30 in FFA , $0.20 in GIVE)
Now it is time to reap the fruits :) Keep up the persistency and consistency. Mommy knows that they will serve you well when you grow up.
---- posted by Mommy
Thursday, June 04, 2009
The Games We Play
I really find that playing games is the best way to teach our children. There are so many learning points we can derive from well-selected toys.
Yixuan is really into a few games right now.
Game #1 - UNO
---------
Yes, you are right. She can play a game of UNO independently. The only challenge is that she has issues holding up the 7 cards fanned out in her tiny hand. So, the best she can do is to place the cards all faced up on the floor. We the professionals will hold the cards in our hands and spy on what cards she has at the same time so that we can strategise our winning moves. ^^
Rules wise, we go for the most basic i.e. no placing of double cards; no interception; no reverse; no skip. Lest the many variations puts her off. However, the main teaching points in the game is to teach her to match numbers and colours. I must say she is a fast learner. After 1 session with her Papa, she is ready to play.
She even manages to win & wow Grandma with her new skills. Ha ha
Game #2 - Giant Floor Jigsaw Puzzle
---------
The Alphabet Jigsaw was actually inherited from Jiaheng. It covers a floor area of about 60 cm by 100 cm.
For beginnings, it is better to start with bigger pieces of puzzles. It is easier to handle and not so straining on their eye sight. And it is just so accomplished for them to see a giant piece of work done. Yeh!
I will first dramatise the process of searching for the correct placement for a piece of puzzle. Soon, I find that Yixuan will imitate me looking at the model answer on the puzzle box and try to match the placement of the piece that she is holding. From that first piece, she will find the other connecting pieces and slowly grow the puzzle. Most times, she can finish the 26 piece puzzle herself with a little help here and there.
Well, I could have just done the 'start from A and form to Z' method. But, I find that the forming of the puzzle with different starting pieces proves more challenging for the girl. That is when I can say "What is the piece BELOW G?" "What is the piece ABOVE K?" etc. Another great learning opportunity, isn't it?
I am really not too surprised to hear Yixuan trying to use the prepositions like BELOW and ABOVE the next few days though she mixed it up most of the time. Whatever!.... It is still a good try. :)
Game #3 - Scissors, Paper, Stone
---------
Yes, it is the good old Scissors, Paper, Stone game that we played when we were kids.
Think about it... it is pretty good motor skills for a 2.5 years old to come out with a Scissors sign.
I was lazing on the bed when Yixuan requested to go pee pee in the toilet. As I just laid down, this lazy-bum-bum mummy was really very reluctant to get up and bring her to the toilet. So, I asked Kai Hock to bring her. As usual,Yixuan refused. It is strange sometimes why there are so many things that ONLY mummy can do in the eyes of the little ones.
To keep my chance to continue to laze around, I suggested that we play Scissors, Paper, Stone. If I win, then Papa will bring her to toilet. If she wins, then I will bring her to toilet. I thought that I had everything planned out. I predicted that she will come up with an easy Stone sign (showing a fist). Else, it will be a Paper sign (showing an open hand). For me, I will come up with a Paper sign to counter her. Smart right?
Lo and Behold, while mine was a Paper sign, hers was the Scissors sign (showing a Victory sign horizontally). Aarrghhh... how can this be? Really 人算不如天算喔。What can I say but to concede defeat. Just got to crawl out of bed and bring the victorious girl to pee pee lor.
Really cannot under-estimate the learning ability of this 小不点 and the power of learning with FUN!
----------- posted by Mommy
Yixuan is really into a few games right now.
Game #1 - UNO
---------
Yes, you are right. She can play a game of UNO independently. The only challenge is that she has issues holding up the 7 cards fanned out in her tiny hand. So, the best she can do is to place the cards all faced up on the floor. We the professionals will hold the cards in our hands and spy on what cards she has at the same time so that we can strategise our winning moves. ^^
Rules wise, we go for the most basic i.e. no placing of double cards; no interception; no reverse; no skip. Lest the many variations puts her off. However, the main teaching points in the game is to teach her to match numbers and colours. I must say she is a fast learner. After 1 session with her Papa, she is ready to play.
She even manages to win & wow Grandma with her new skills. Ha ha
Game #2 - Giant Floor Jigsaw Puzzle
---------
The Alphabet Jigsaw was actually inherited from Jiaheng. It covers a floor area of about 60 cm by 100 cm.
For beginnings, it is better to start with bigger pieces of puzzles. It is easier to handle and not so straining on their eye sight. And it is just so accomplished for them to see a giant piece of work done. Yeh!
I will first dramatise the process of searching for the correct placement for a piece of puzzle. Soon, I find that Yixuan will imitate me looking at the model answer on the puzzle box and try to match the placement of the piece that she is holding. From that first piece, she will find the other connecting pieces and slowly grow the puzzle. Most times, she can finish the 26 piece puzzle herself with a little help here and there.
Well, I could have just done the 'start from A and form to Z' method. But, I find that the forming of the puzzle with different starting pieces proves more challenging for the girl. That is when I can say "What is the piece BELOW G?" "What is the piece ABOVE K?" etc. Another great learning opportunity, isn't it?
I am really not too surprised to hear Yixuan trying to use the prepositions like BELOW and ABOVE the next few days though she mixed it up most of the time. Whatever!.... It is still a good try. :)
Game #3 - Scissors, Paper, Stone
---------
Yes, it is the good old Scissors, Paper, Stone game that we played when we were kids.
Think about it... it is pretty good motor skills for a 2.5 years old to come out with a Scissors sign.
I was lazing on the bed when Yixuan requested to go pee pee in the toilet. As I just laid down, this lazy-bum-bum mummy was really very reluctant to get up and bring her to the toilet. So, I asked Kai Hock to bring her. As usual,Yixuan refused. It is strange sometimes why there are so many things that ONLY mummy can do in the eyes of the little ones.
To keep my chance to continue to laze around, I suggested that we play Scissors, Paper, Stone. If I win, then Papa will bring her to toilet. If she wins, then I will bring her to toilet. I thought that I had everything planned out. I predicted that she will come up with an easy Stone sign (showing a fist). Else, it will be a Paper sign (showing an open hand). For me, I will come up with a Paper sign to counter her. Smart right?
Lo and Behold, while mine was a Paper sign, hers was the Scissors sign (showing a Victory sign horizontally). Aarrghhh... how can this be? Really 人算不如天算喔。What can I say but to concede defeat. Just got to crawl out of bed and bring the victorious girl to pee pee lor.
Really cannot under-estimate the learning ability of this 小不点 and the power of learning with FUN!
----------- posted by Mommy
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
I also have ONE !
Mummy has a Mother's Day Card, so have I!Jiaheng was beaming with pride when he presented the Father's Day card to me today. Can see that he has put in lots of effort in the card.
Jiaheng, Papa likes it very much! Thank you, thank you, thank you. And thank you so much for being such a teachable boy, Papa really enjoys teaching you.
If you are wondering what the words " Thank you for teaching me I promise myself"
"I promise myself" is the starting phrase of the Optimist Creed that I was teaching him.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
古灵精怪的公主
算一算，公主已经两岁半了。最近发现公主越来越古灵精怪。
发现（一）
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这个星期，爸爸出了国。爸爸出国后的第一个早上，公主睡醒后看不到爸爸，便问我爸爸在哪里？我回答说爸爸出国了，过几天才回来。公主听后就哼起了一段儿歌。。。“爸爸不在家。。。我请客人先坐下再敬一杯milo”
发现（二）
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今天上弟子规， 老师讲到“孔融让梨”。说到孔融四岁就懂得长幼有序和兄友弟恭的道理。然后就叫了两位四岁的小朋友出来示范， 拿了两粒大小的梨子让他们选，让他们决定是要把大梨还是小梨让哥哥。两位小朋友都照孔融那样把大梨给了哥哥。
公主坐在自己的位子边看边说，“妹妹要拿大梨，妹妹长大了，拿大的”。我还没来得及向她解释，老师就说要位更小的朋友出来示范。接着就叫到家亨的名字， 叫家亨把妹妹带出来。Oopps!
公主有板有眼地走了出去，站在大家的前面。老师问一句，她回答一句。到了关键的那问题时，我的心差点要跳出来了！真不敢听下去。老师问“妹妹，要把哪粒梨给哥哥呢？”，说着举起双手的两粒梨。
公主从老师手中接过两粒梨把大的那粒递给哥哥。哥哥也很高兴地接过梨子。这时我才松了一口气。被公主耍了。。。
----- posted by Mommy
发现（一）
---------
这个星期，爸爸出了国。爸爸出国后的第一个早上，公主睡醒后看不到爸爸，便问我爸爸在哪里？我回答说爸爸出国了，过几天才回来。公主听后就哼起了一段儿歌。。。“爸爸不在家。。。我请客人先坐下再敬一杯milo”
发现（二）
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今天上弟子规， 老师讲到“孔融让梨”。说到孔融四岁就懂得长幼有序和兄友弟恭的道理。然后就叫了两位四岁的小朋友出来示范， 拿了两粒大小的梨子让他们选，让他们决定是要把大梨还是小梨让哥哥。两位小朋友都照孔融那样把大梨给了哥哥。
公主坐在自己的位子边看边说，“妹妹要拿大梨，妹妹长大了，拿大的”。我还没来得及向她解释，老师就说要位更小的朋友出来示范。接着就叫到家亨的名字， 叫家亨把妹妹带出来。Oopps!
公主有板有眼地走了出去，站在大家的前面。老师问一句，她回答一句。到了关键的那问题时，我的心差点要跳出来了！真不敢听下去。老师问“妹妹，要把哪粒梨给哥哥呢？”，说着举起双手的两粒梨。
公主从老师手中接过两粒梨把大的那粒递给哥哥。哥哥也很高兴地接过梨子。这时我才松了一口气。被公主耍了。。。
----- posted by Mommy
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Our first appointment is done!
Today is our scheduled HDB first appointment date. It took us a whole 2 hours to get all paper work done. Can't really remember the procedure, it is just one paper signing after another.
"Owner 1, please sign here. Owner 2, sign here... sign here... sign here... sign here... sign here...here... here... sign here..." For a moment, I thought I turned into a document signing machine!
As we are doing contra for buying and selling our flat, all three parties (i.e. the couple buying our current flat + the gentleman selling the new flat to us + Kai Hock & I) need to be present for the contract to materialise. It is like a battalion moving from one counter to another. I must admit it was quite fun. :)
I like the young couple buying our current flat. In fact, they left a good impression with me the very first time we met. Nice people, I must say. Very friendly and warm. We are happy our current home will be in good hands.
Our current home has served us well for 10 years. Kai Hock and I spent 4 "honeymoon" years here before Jiaheng arrived. Then 3 years later, it welcomed its 4th occupant, Yixuan.
Every time I step into our home, I will feel secure and at ease. It is not just a shelter over our heads but it has shared 10 years of our life stories... like a good, loyal friend. I am going to miss it. *sentimental, sentimental*
Well having said that, I am also looking forward to moving into our new flat. It is a different experience altogether with new neighbours and new environment. But ... yes! I am looking forward to it. Especially when Jiaheng starts his Primary one next year. It will such a breeze to send him to and fro school as the school is just a stone throw away. :)
Not forgetting the nice gentleman who sold the house to us. He shared with me some family history of the house while we chatted at the HDB. So kind of him to leave me some of his fond memories.
At the end of the day, it is all these nice people you meet that makes this world a warmer and happier place to live in isn't it? And I am lucky to meet so many of them.
------ posted by Mommy
"Owner 1, please sign here. Owner 2, sign here... sign here... sign here... sign here... sign here...here... here... sign here..." For a moment, I thought I turned into a document signing machine!
As we are doing contra for buying and selling our flat, all three parties (i.e. the couple buying our current flat + the gentleman selling the new flat to us + Kai Hock & I) need to be present for the contract to materialise. It is like a battalion moving from one counter to another. I must admit it was quite fun. :)
I like the young couple buying our current flat. In fact, they left a good impression with me the very first time we met. Nice people, I must say. Very friendly and warm. We are happy our current home will be in good hands.
Our current home has served us well for 10 years. Kai Hock and I spent 4 "honeymoon" years here before Jiaheng arrived. Then 3 years later, it welcomed its 4th occupant, Yixuan.
Every time I step into our home, I will feel secure and at ease. It is not just a shelter over our heads but it has shared 10 years of our life stories... like a good, loyal friend. I am going to miss it. *sentimental, sentimental*
Well having said that, I am also looking forward to moving into our new flat. It is a different experience altogether with new neighbours and new environment. But ... yes! I am looking forward to it. Especially when Jiaheng starts his Primary one next year. It will such a breeze to send him to and fro school as the school is just a stone throw away. :)
Not forgetting the nice gentleman who sold the house to us. He shared with me some family history of the house while we chatted at the HDB. So kind of him to leave me some of his fond memories.
At the end of the day, it is all these nice people you meet that makes this world a warmer and happier place to live in isn't it? And I am lucky to meet so many of them.
------ posted by Mommy
Saturday, May 09, 2009
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Swine Flu
6 years have passed, it still hits a sore spot. April 2003 was the happiest yet the darkest month for me.
Happiest as I welcome Jiaheng, my favourite boy into the world and into our family. Darkest as our family struggled with SARS and praying that my mum-in-law get out of her coma soon.
6 years later, April 2009... again, the world is hit with a pandemic, the Swine Flu. From the news reports, it seems that the Swine Flu is hitting the world harder. It is getting on my nerves and the first persons whom I want to protect are my favourite boy and girl.
On top of a healthy diet of fresh fruits and lots of vege (I m lucky tt they are vege lovers), I will up their supply of anti-oxidants. Every night, I will soak 1 grape-seed extract and 1 Vitamin C in their milk bottles. When the pills dissolved, I will mix in their milk powder. Not forgetting the daily children's multivitamins to boost their immune system. And of course, they will need to drink lots of water to hydrate themselves. I am not taking any chances.
The reason why some people fall sick and some don't when the flu bug hits is their immune system. When their bodies are well-protected with anti-oxidants, the chances of them falling sick is highly reduced. This is my way of protecting my two angels. Jiaheng, Yixuan, I love you both so so much.
----- posted by Mommy
Happiest as I welcome Jiaheng, my favourite boy into the world and into our family. Darkest as our family struggled with SARS and praying that my mum-in-law get out of her coma soon.
6 years later, April 2009... again, the world is hit with a pandemic, the Swine Flu. From the news reports, it seems that the Swine Flu is hitting the world harder. It is getting on my nerves and the first persons whom I want to protect are my favourite boy and girl.
On top of a healthy diet of fresh fruits and lots of vege (I m lucky tt they are vege lovers), I will up their supply of anti-oxidants. Every night, I will soak 1 grape-seed extract and 1 Vitamin C in their milk bottles. When the pills dissolved, I will mix in their milk powder. Not forgetting the daily children's multivitamins to boost their immune system. And of course, they will need to drink lots of water to hydrate themselves. I am not taking any chances.
The reason why some people fall sick and some don't when the flu bug hits is their immune system. When their bodies are well-protected with anti-oxidants, the chances of them falling sick is highly reduced. This is my way of protecting my two angels. Jiaheng, Yixuan, I love you both so so much.
----- posted by Mommy
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Our Princess is Going to School
Yixuan loves sending Jiaheng to school. Whenever she is asked "Do you want to go to school like Ge Ge?" You can be assured that the answer will be an absolute YES!
Mommy also observed that she is more ready in terms of her behaviour. Nowadays, Yixuan is able to go into Gym class by herself without clinging to Mommy. She will just turn round at the doorstep and give Mommy a big big smile, and then briskly go into the Gym class to start the routine.
As Yixuan is turning 2 and a half years old soon, Mommy decided it is time to source for a school for her. We must thank Jiaheng for giving us a good lesson in choosing pre-schools. So, this time round, the selection process was a breeze. We know what we wanted and from the 5 short-listed schools, we zoomed in to one... The Ascension Kindergarten. The only thing left is to pay the school and the staff a visit to ascertain that this is the school we wanted for our Princess.
And that is what we did today. We brought Yixuan along. The Ascension Kindergarten is similar to Marymount Kindergarten in terms of pupil strength. Compared to Jiaheng's current school, the pupil strength is easily 4x larger.
When we arrived, it was Assembly Time when all the children gathered for some songs and activities before school formally starts. I was actually a little shocked to see so many children in the hall. What ran through my mind was "Will Yixuan be scared to be with so many other children?" But when I took a glimpse of her face, my worries simply vanished. The look of enthusiasm was written all over her face. :)
The vice-principal who brought us for a tour of the school was very warm and friendly. The staff and teachers we came into contact with were also very approachable. The children looks happy in the school. The facility though a little old (can't help it lah... the school has a long history) is comprehensive. The curriculum sounds interesting. The teacher to pupil ratio is reasonable. Guess this is it!
Yippeee. Our Princess will be starting school in early July. :)
Mommy also observed that she is more ready in terms of her behaviour. Nowadays, Yixuan is able to go into Gym class by herself without clinging to Mommy. She will just turn round at the doorstep and give Mommy a big big smile, and then briskly go into the Gym class to start the routine.
As Yixuan is turning 2 and a half years old soon, Mommy decided it is time to source for a school for her. We must thank Jiaheng for giving us a good lesson in choosing pre-schools. So, this time round, the selection process was a breeze. We know what we wanted and from the 5 short-listed schools, we zoomed in to one... The Ascension Kindergarten. The only thing left is to pay the school and the staff a visit to ascertain that this is the school we wanted for our Princess.
And that is what we did today. We brought Yixuan along. The Ascension Kindergarten is similar to Marymount Kindergarten in terms of pupil strength. Compared to Jiaheng's current school, the pupil strength is easily 4x larger.
When we arrived, it was Assembly Time when all the children gathered for some songs and activities before school formally starts. I was actually a little shocked to see so many children in the hall. What ran through my mind was "Will Yixuan be scared to be with so many other children?" But when I took a glimpse of her face, my worries simply vanished. The look of enthusiasm was written all over her face. :)
The vice-principal who brought us for a tour of the school was very warm and friendly. The staff and teachers we came into contact with were also very approachable. The children looks happy in the school. The facility though a little old (can't help it lah... the school has a long history) is comprehensive. The curriculum sounds interesting. The teacher to pupil ratio is reasonable. Guess this is it!
Yippeee. Our Princess will be starting school in early July. :)
Monday, April 20, 2009
Specially for you... a Zoo Membership
When Jiaheng was younger, we will go to the Zoo once every 2 or 3 weeks. We will only target a particular area to explore and then go back another day to explore other parts of the Zoo. And of course, we hold the "Friends of the Zoo" membership.
But for Yixuan, we seem to have more and more activities occupying us during the weekends. So much so that we only brought Yixuan to the Zoo once since birth. Kai Hock has been harping on how "pathetic" his girl was to only go to the Zoo once ... and that she only saw 2D images of animals and not 3D ... and that how happy she will be to see the animals live. So I finally decided to apply for a Zoo Membership specially for Yixuan.
Aiyoh, Yixuan simply refuses to smile at the Uncle holding the camera. Every time, the Uncle says "cheese", she will purposely clamp her mouth together. Once the Uncle puts down the camera, she will break into a big wide smile. She kept repeating her trick throughout the 3 or 4 shots we attempted.
Even the Auntie at the application counter was so amused by Yixuan's action that she has to place her palm over her mouth to stop herself from laughing out.
Aaargh! We had no choice but to settle for this "best" shot for the Zoo card.
Well, although this little girl has close to no on-site experience at the Zoo, she definitely has high expectations of what she wants to see at the Zoo. One moment its "Meerkat", the next moment she wants "Armadillo". (thanks to the animal picture cards we have been showing her)
Aiyoh, girl, Singapore Zoo tak ada have Armadillo hor. Meerkat also not even shown on the map leh. Can ask for more common ones or not?
Guess the most amusing part is to see her imitate her GeGe holding the Zoo map and walk about, as if she really knows how to read the map. No worries, little girl, we will definitely bring you to the Zoo more often... especially after we have invested so much on the Zoo membership. :P
---- posted by Mommy
But for Yixuan, we seem to have more and more activities occupying us during the weekends. So much so that we only brought Yixuan to the Zoo once since birth. Kai Hock has been harping on how "pathetic" his girl was to only go to the Zoo once ... and that she only saw 2D images of animals and not 3D ... and that how happy she will be to see the animals live. So I finally decided to apply for a Zoo Membership specially for Yixuan.
Aiyoh, Yixuan simply refuses to smile at the Uncle holding the camera. Every time, the Uncle says "cheese", she will purposely clamp her mouth together. Once the Uncle puts down the camera, she will break into a big wide smile. She kept repeating her trick throughout the 3 or 4 shots we attempted.
Even the Auntie at the application counter was so amused by Yixuan's action that she has to place her palm over her mouth to stop herself from laughing out.
Aaargh! We had no choice but to settle for this "best" shot for the Zoo card.
Well, although this little girl has close to no on-site experience at the Zoo, she definitely has high expectations of what she wants to see at the Zoo. One moment its "Meerkat", the next moment she wants "Armadillo". (thanks to the animal picture cards we have been showing her)
Aiyoh, girl, Singapore Zoo tak ada have Armadillo hor. Meerkat also not even shown on the map leh. Can ask for more common ones or not?
Guess the most amusing part is to see her imitate her GeGe holding the Zoo map and walk about, as if she really knows how to read the map. No worries, little girl, we will definitely bring you to the Zoo more often... especially after we have invested so much on the Zoo membership. :P
---- posted by Mommy
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
妹妹的偶像
如果婆婆早到我们的家，婆婆会带着两个孙下楼去等家亨的校车来接家亨上学。
妹妹最喜欢接送哥哥。能够出门， 又能够穿她的 “kok kok” 鞋。（“kok kok” 鞋 是那种会发出像高根鞋那种声音的鞋子）
怿萱总是高高兴兴的出门， 但不见得是高高兴兴的回来。 为什么？关键在于哥哥。如果哥哥上了校车没跟妹妹挥手， 妹妹回来时便会一副失望的样子说哥哥没看妹妹， 没跟妹妹挥手。嘴唇还稍微嘟嘟的。让人看了不知道是好笑，还是好气。
今天，妹妹回来可乐了。笑着说 “gor gor， 有跟妹妹挥手！两只手。有， 有挥手。” 一边说，一边露出一副得意的样子。
妹妹的偶像一出，谁以争锋啊。真是服了他们。
--- posted by Mommy
妹妹最喜欢接送哥哥。能够出门， 又能够穿她的 “kok kok” 鞋。（“kok kok” 鞋 是那种会发出像高根鞋那种声音的鞋子）
怿萱总是高高兴兴的出门， 但不见得是高高兴兴的回来。 为什么？关键在于哥哥。如果哥哥上了校车没跟妹妹挥手， 妹妹回来时便会一副失望的样子说哥哥没看妹妹， 没跟妹妹挥手。嘴唇还稍微嘟嘟的。让人看了不知道是好笑，还是好气。
今天，妹妹回来可乐了。笑着说 “gor gor， 有跟妹妹挥手！两只手。有， 有挥手。” 一边说，一边露出一副得意的样子。
妹妹的偶像一出，谁以争锋啊。真是服了他们。
--- posted by Mommy
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Preparation for Jiaheng's 6th birthday
Jiaheng is turning 6 years old on 12 April 2009.
Can't believe that I have been a mum for 6 years. It was just a tiny body that I held in my arms 6 years ago. And now, he is getting a bit too long for me to cradle in my arms. :) Still, I love to hug him like a baby... cos he is still a little baby in mommy's eyes.
Since this is the last year that Jiaheng will be celebrating birthday in his school, I wanted to give him something special to remember by. Next year, he will be in Primary One, and I figure that it is no longer possible to go to school to celebrate birthdays.
While browsing the internet, I came across the brilliant idea to come up with a personalised goodie bag for his friends at school. Something that is special cos it is made by Mommy.
After 2 nights of hard work, this is the result...
Really can't wait to see his expression when he sees it. :)
------- posted by Mommy
Can't believe that I have been a mum for 6 years. It was just a tiny body that I held in my arms 6 years ago. And now, he is getting a bit too long for me to cradle in my arms. :) Still, I love to hug him like a baby... cos he is still a little baby in mommy's eyes.
Since this is the last year that Jiaheng will be celebrating birthday in his school, I wanted to give him something special to remember by. Next year, he will be in Primary One, and I figure that it is no longer possible to go to school to celebrate birthdays.
While browsing the internet, I came across the brilliant idea to come up with a personalised goodie bag for his friends at school. Something that is special cos it is made by Mommy.
After 2 nights of hard work, this is the result...
Really can't wait to see his expression when he sees it. :)
------- posted by Mommy
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
What is the difference between a rich person and poor person?
If I were to ask you the above question, what will your answer be?
Come on, take a minute to ponder about it?
Mommy was in the room next door putting Yixuan to bed and Jiaheng was doing his Abacus next to me. I popped him the same question.
And here is his answer...
"For rich people, 1 cent will grow into 10 cents and then 10 cents will grow into 1 dollar. Then to 10 dollars and 100 dollars.
Poor people will think 'aiya, what can you buy with 1 cent?!' "
Boy! This 6 year-old kid has a success mind-set.
What is your definition ?
Come on, take a minute to ponder about it?
Mommy was in the room next door putting Yixuan to bed and Jiaheng was doing his Abacus next to me. I popped him the same question.
And here is his answer...
"For rich people, 1 cent will grow into 10 cents and then 10 cents will grow into 1 dollar. Then to 10 dollars and 100 dollars.
Poor people will think 'aiya, what can you buy with 1 cent?!' "
Boy! This 6 year-old kid has a success mind-set.
What is your definition ?
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Jiaheng is 3 out of 32 of an adult
Yesterday morning, after Jiaheng finished brushing his teeth, he came to me saying that his teeth is very painful and that he felt something moving.
After checking, I realised that his front incisor was slanted and behind the incisor another pearly white has cut through his gum. Heh! This is Jiaheng's first adult tooth... or so I thought... cos after the dentist checked him, she told Kai Hock that in fact the molars have come out on the left and right of the lower jaw.
The lady dentist was very friendly. Kai Hock found her through the internet. The regular dentist we went to is a nice doctor too, however, I guess he is more used to serving adult patients so not very "zai" when it comes to little ones. Jiaheng went for his regular check-up with our regular dentist a couple of times but that was just for routine checks and cleaning so we were not particularly anxious. But this time, we expected some form of extraction so Kai Hock wanted to look for one who is more experienced with children and so we found this lady dentist located at Telok Blangah.
We are very pleased with her... she really knows how to deal with kids and make them comfortable. As such, the extraction process was very smooth and before Jiaheng knows it, the tooth was already extracted.
After the extraction, the dentist offered a lollipop to Jiaheng to reward him for his "bravery". According to Kai Hock, Jiaheng first took a lollipop with a pink wrapper then he wanted to take another. The lady dentist said he can only have one. Jiaheng explained that he wanted one more for his meimei who is asleep outside the treatment room. The dentist said that meimei can get one the next time she comes.
Jiaheng thought for a moment and said that he will only take one and he will give this one to his meimei because his meimei likes pink. Upon hearing that, the lady dentist "melted" and offered him one more lollipop for himself. Aiyoh, my son, you so sweeeeeet. :)
Once, Jiaheng can start talking without the cotton pad in his mouth to stop the bleeding, he cannot wait to tell everyone he met that he is now 3 out of 32 of an adult cos 3 of his adult teeth came out.
And of course, an excellent teaching opportunity for me. Son, ... you are now 3 out of 32 of an adult... so your behaviour should be more responsible and more like an adult, ok? He just looked at me with an innocent look, nodded and said "OK" and walked off happily.
Well, not sure how much he understood from my teaching... Aiyoh... never mind... still have another 17 chances before all his baby teeth come out. Ha ha
--- posted by Mommy
After checking, I realised that his front incisor was slanted and behind the incisor another pearly white has cut through his gum. Heh! This is Jiaheng's first adult tooth... or so I thought... cos after the dentist checked him, she told Kai Hock that in fact the molars have come out on the left and right of the lower jaw.
The lady dentist was very friendly. Kai Hock found her through the internet. The regular dentist we went to is a nice doctor too, however, I guess he is more used to serving adult patients so not very "zai" when it comes to little ones. Jiaheng went for his regular check-up with our regular dentist a couple of times but that was just for routine checks and cleaning so we were not particularly anxious. But this time, we expected some form of extraction so Kai Hock wanted to look for one who is more experienced with children and so we found this lady dentist located at Telok Blangah.
We are very pleased with her... she really knows how to deal with kids and make them comfortable. As such, the extraction process was very smooth and before Jiaheng knows it, the tooth was already extracted.
After the extraction, the dentist offered a lollipop to Jiaheng to reward him for his "bravery". According to Kai Hock, Jiaheng first took a lollipop with a pink wrapper then he wanted to take another. The lady dentist said he can only have one. Jiaheng explained that he wanted one more for his meimei who is asleep outside the treatment room. The dentist said that meimei can get one the next time she comes.
Jiaheng thought for a moment and said that he will only take one and he will give this one to his meimei because his meimei likes pink. Upon hearing that, the lady dentist "melted" and offered him one more lollipop for himself. Aiyoh, my son, you so sweeeeeet. :)
Once, Jiaheng can start talking without the cotton pad in his mouth to stop the bleeding, he cannot wait to tell everyone he met that he is now 3 out of 32 of an adult cos 3 of his adult teeth came out.
And of course, an excellent teaching opportunity for me. Son, ... you are now 3 out of 32 of an adult... so your behaviour should be more responsible and more like an adult, ok? He just looked at me with an innocent look, nodded and said "OK" and walked off happily.
Well, not sure how much he understood from my teaching... Aiyoh... never mind... still have another 17 chances before all his baby teeth come out. Ha ha
--- posted by Mommy
Sunday, March 08, 2009
Science Centre - Mind Fest 2009
We were lucky this weekend.
We went to the Science Centre with the kids planning to visit the routine exhibits but found out that there was a special activity, Mind Fest 2009 going on. Mind Fest was mainly organised for the school children and they are only opening to the public for this weekend. Just in time.
The children enjoyed the activites cos they were very hands-on. We designed our own aircraft which is supposed to float out of a gas chamber steadily. It is entirely up to the kids' imagination and creativity how they want to design it. There was also a paper plane flewing competition where you can pit the airplane you folded with others.
For Jiaheng, he was not keen on pitting his airplane against others but more keen on just flewing the plane and running after it.
Then there was a photo-light photography exhibit. We went in to a darkroom and were given some light emitting devices to create patterns with and then to capture the patterns on photo. Hmm... where am I? Too far for the light to capture me... should have stood next to Jiaheng.
We went to the Science Centre with the kids planning to visit the routine exhibits but found out that there was a special activity, Mind Fest 2009 going on. Mind Fest was mainly organised for the school children and they are only opening to the public for this weekend. Just in time.
The children enjoyed the activites cos they were very hands-on. We designed our own aircraft which is supposed to float out of a gas chamber steadily. It is entirely up to the kids' imagination and creativity how they want to design it. There was also a paper plane flewing competition where you can pit the airplane you folded with others.
For Jiaheng, he was not keen on pitting his airplane against others but more keen on just flewing the plane and running after it.
Then there was a photo-light photography exhibit. We went in to a darkroom and were given some light emitting devices to create patterns with and then to capture the patterns on photo. Hmm... where am I? Too far for the light to capture me... should have stood next to Jiaheng.
Yixuan's favourite activity was the Jitter-Bug activity, where we get to decorate our jitter bug and to create our very-own design. As I anticipated, our jitter-bug turned out to be a pinky bug cos Yixuan will keep passing mommy pink (Yixuan's fav colour) feathers to decorate the bug. Here's our very own design drawn by our Jitter-bug.
I always enjoy trips to the Science center. Always something new.
I always enjoy trips to the Science center. Always something new.
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