be there love..be there hope...

see parents straight for 3 days in a row!

2009-09-10T12:47:00.000-07:00

Hubby's out of town so I had the luxury of bringing both children to my parents' place to chill out for 3 days in a row. Mum cannot take it that Amber's so actively walking with aid! We wish she'll start walking soon before draining us out. She's fearless!

Elated to accidentally located my favourite fried carrot cake stall. They have relocated to Tampines! Even Alden likes it :-) I ordered both types..black and white version.

Dad kept telling me that it's 7th month so drive slowly......yes, must always drive slowly. Looking forward to Genting trip soon with mum. Had my ringgit changed today. Bought myself and parents new pillows :-)

Happy Teacher's Day

2009-08-31T12:55:00.000-07:00

It's Teacher's Day so no school for Alden. I invited Serene and her children for a swim with Alden in one of the condos. It's been such a long time since Alden swum!! He misses it so much that when I threw him some options on how he wants to spend his day; he chose swimming over the rest. Poor Amber won't be joining us as the car's full and it might be hard on her when I need to tend to Alden. Too bad, daddy couldn't take leave last minute.

Confirmed on Ascension Kindergarten

2009-07-29T21:13:00.000-07:00

I took the trouble to drive to Ascension Kindergarten to find out if fetching and sending Alden for the next 2 years there be a hassle to ourselves. It was a blessing to hear from the guard that it is not an issue so long it's by 12noon which it alright as he would be in the morning session. I am fortunate to meet a mummy and a grandpa who gave good feedback on the school. The plus point is the school emphasises on reading which is also my philosophy. So now the task is to phase Alden in the school as smooth as possible come next year. I think changing school is a lot for the child to adapt but if it is for the better then just bite the bullet. The timing of the switch is also important hence I want to transfer him only start of the year and not like last term of the year. Heard there is a waiting list formed so better not give up the seat, anyway I have courageously given up pap's seat for next yr so I cannot back out this time!!!!

Art Class

2009-07-07T13:09:00.000-07:00

Alden had started his first art class last week. He simply loves it and is looking forward to the next lesson. His teacher thinks he is a very focused child for his age. Something which other teachers have also highlighted. I noticed that he can learn things very fast and on his own by his own observation. It's a blessing! In terms of being well-mannered to familiar people, he still has a way to go. Now, I am not sure whether I should start him on keyboard lesson....

Hubby's on business trip to Tokyo

2009-05-24T19:02:00.000-07:00

Hubby flies to Tokyo today for a short business trip. Managed to call for the Toyota Wish red Transcab to send him to T3. Asked him to buy Hakata ramen for me. To me, it tastes better than the Yoshimaru ramen in Holland Village.

Fil would be discharged tomorrow morning. I would bring him back before going to fetch Alden from class. Luckily, my mum be around to help take care of Amber while I am out doing so.

Amber would be starting Growing Up Gifted classes soon next month. Finally, she got the slot for Teacher Aida's class.

Successful Operation

2009-05-21T09:17:00.000-07:00

Fil's open heart bypass surgery went smooth on 20 May from 1.30pm to 5pm. He would be transferred out of ICU to 1 bedded room on 22 May, Friday in the afternoon. So we would visit him with both children, mil and my mum.

Gingerbread Man Musical in Alliance Franciase

2009-05-21T09:11:00.001-07:00

The Gingerbread Man musical follows the book version pretty closely except some parts have been modified. For example, the animals that wish to eat up the ginerbread man turned out to be a duck, cat and dog :-) but in the end, like in the book, it was the fox that ate him up while helping him to cross the river. Some comedy injected. I find the old woman acted a tad too fierce though. The old man was funny!

I bought a real gingerbread man which Alden ate some and took photos of it! Also bought gingerbread man T-shirts for him and myself. Alden had enjoyed the show.....he wants more shows but not scary ones he said. The witch in the Tooth Fairy musical was too scary for him. He did not cry then (lucky for me else I have to get out of the theatre) but the impression of the witch was sure deep. Ironically, deeper than the Tooth Fairy herself who was the main lead!!

Photo with Daisy in Enchanted Garden

2009-05-16T01:17:00.000-07:00

Here's a backdated photo of us in Hong Kong Disneyland. Alden likes some rides such as It's a Small World and Pooh Bear, Carousel, Flying Dumbo...he is fearful of Space Mountain. Alden was so happy in this photo. He prefers Donald Duck over Mickey. It was a wonderful breakfast spread in Enchanted Garden in Disneyland.

Till today, at times, he would suddenly tell us about characters or describe some of the rides in Disneyland that he had experienced. I am glad that I have helped him to store away some wonderful childhood memories. It's worth my pain (can feel my knee cartilage reduced) of having to carry him so much during our trip there. I love growing up with my children. Time is always racing with them around. I have planned more activities for Alden such as Story Telling for the coming Jun holidays, Gingerbread Man musical in Alliance Franciase in May, Emperor's New Clothes Performance (Chinese) in July, The Boy Who Cried Wolf and Baking Banana and Peach Tart Class in Sep!!

Unexpected Heart Attack

2009-05-14T05:17:00.000-07:00

Father in law had a heart attack on 8 May 2009 early morning. Sent to TTSH after clinic diagnosis. Hospitalised for 4 days. Angiogram results indicated need for bypass surgery. Found a suitable heart surgeon via their music teacher's recommendation. Admission to Mt E. on 19 May and operatioin be done at 20 May 2009.

Alden loves to draw

2009-05-05T17:41:00.001-07:00

This is how my mummy looks like after her hair perm! How do you rate my drawing? Hee!!

Alden loves to draw nowadays. Typical of a child his age. Would send him for art class but he has a criterion. He does not want to attend art class in the evening. Maybe his creative juices run low in the evenings...hahaha!

Amber at 9 months old

2009-05-05T17:29:00.000-07:00

This is Amber at 9 months old.

She has started to crawl and show her temper by jumping and simultaneously making the fierce "hmm..hmmm....hmmm" sounds. She has 2 lower teeth and often flashes her megawatt smile. She is taking 2 solid meals (lunch and dinner). She's quite an easy baby to care for. My lovely princess, may you grow up beautiful and intelligent!

Berries Class

2009-04-29T19:47:00.000-07:00

Alden likes his Berries class!! So happy that my guess was correct. Battle against hubby has won.

Hong Kong Trip

2009-04-29T19:35:00.000-07:00

Disneyland was the highlight of our HK trip. The breakfast in Enchanted Garden in Disneyland Hotel was wonderful with picture taking with the characters. As my brother and family were not keen in queuing for character photography with the theme park, we do not have other photos with the characters save for those we had taken during this magical breakfast on our final day.

Royal Pacific Garden and Towers Hotel was beautiful. Thanks Candy and Benny so much for the link up else we would have ended up in some cramped hotel in Tsim Sar Chui. The Hollywood Hotel was great too but if one has to stay there throughout it would be troublesome to reach other parts of HK.

Ocean Park was a let-down due to rain on the day we were there so we did not get to see much except for the indoor aquariums.

Have yet to download photos from my camera!! When asked for his country of preference, Alden said that he prefers Japan for its cool weather and snow. So for future destinations, I would choose such timings for travel with him.

Futon, here I come!!

2009-03-29T21:32:00.000-07:00

We had stayed in the washitsu which is the Japanese style of room in Nasu Highland Hotel. Alden's favourite activity is to jump into the futon....so soft, thick and comfy! See his happy face :-)

15 Mar to 21 Mar Tokyo, Tochigi Prefecture trip

2009-03-29T21:22:00.000-07:00

This is one of our favourite photos of Alden in Nasu Highland Park. We were waiting for the park to open while in the taxi. It has stopped snowing.

Home Sweet Home

2009-03-22T04:04:00.001-07:00

We are back in SG. When we were reviewing the photos that we had taken for our Japan trip, Alden remarked," I want to go Japan again." Daddy said that next time would be to bring Amber and he is to stay at home. He said,"Can bring Amber and Alden?" Really knows how to enjoy himself!!

Btw, when we had our sushi at Midori last Friday, we found that the standard had somewhat dropped. Maybe it was a public holiday and the top chef was on holiday just my wild guess! Some restaurants in Hibiya has also closed down. I bought my favourite chocolates from Imperial Hotel and had some nice soft cream with Alden. He loved it. He had great fun at the Hibiya Park with some Japanese children. He was lucky to catch sight of a Sakura tree in bloom which is rare at this time of the year. Hope our family luck is up! Just like this Cherry Blossom blooming against the odds. Hubby will be flying back to Tokyo again in May for work. Lucky him be able to travel to Japan very frequently due to work.

Big Camera

2009-03-19T06:03:00.000-07:00

Alden had the biggest buy of the day in Big Camera, Ikebukuro - train sets and monsters. Hubby finally had his Fukuoka ramen which I recommended long time ago. It is located in La Qua. He never had the chance when we were in Tokyo back then. Very glad that he had his thumbs up for it, he really share quite a lot of same taste where food is concerned except that he really does not like fried foods.

We`re staying in Akihabara

2009-03-18T06:43:00.000-07:00

It`s our 4th day in Japan. We have been to Nasu Highland and now back to Tokyo.

We are flying tomorrow for Tokyo/Tochigi Ken Trip

2009-03-14T11:04:00.000-07:00

We will be away from 15 Mar to 21 Mar to Tokyo/Tochigi Ken. I pray for excellent weather in the areas where we would be visiting. This trip is mainly to let Alden enjoy himself during his holidays and get to know about Japan. He knows when hubby and I communicate in Japanese and he will yell, "Japanese!". I want to let him know that it's the place where he was first conceived. It will be his first flight so be exciting for him I hope. Hubby chose SQ A380 so that I can experience it. He had boarded it last week for work purpose to Tokyo.

It will be a good break for hubby before he hopped on his next career move which would see him flying to Japan very often. Good news is with his mileage claim due to frequent flying to Japan, I can fly with him sometimes...hee!! As if I am childless... His annual leave would be 18 days ...yahoooo!! hopefully he can get to take it and not see on paper only. If so, we can probably fly to Germany to visit Naohiro's family and May's family :-) They are like 4.5 hours' drive apart. Wait!! I am thinking too far....yet to go for coming holiday and thinking about another!!! Inlaws would flip if they know. Thanks to them for they would be taking care of our little princess during our absence. They will be rewarding themselves with a 9 days China trip in April 09.

As for today, Alden enjoyed his "Brown Bear and Chicken Go Camping" play with Bryan. I myself had enjoyed it too. Alden kept laughing and saying, "so funny!" . We then had dim sum lunch at Red Star Restaurant. In the afternoon, Alden had great fun at a balloon sculpting session in the library. I was the worker making dogs, swords!! I had to scuplt them for him since he is too young to do so. Luckily, he was not afraid by the bursting balloons. We were awarded the grand prize of "Road Runner", the biggest balloon scuplt of all cos mummy managed to make the most bubbles balloon at the start of the session. So happy! Dinner was great too at Ah Keng Fish Head Steamboat with family. Daddy burnt a hole in his pocket at a GP for his flu - $96 but great thing is he cleared his nose after taking 2 doses of meds. Such a miracle, at least he is well enough to fly. I think receiving his letter of employment from his new employer accelerated his recovery. Haha...I am elated too. A very enriching and enjoyable day before our flight tomorrow.

Mango Lassi!

2009-02-23T10:38:00.001-08:00

It was a day out with my friends from Germany with Amber to Little India and Sentosa. We managed to find the mango lassi that Henning so craved. He likes his usual huntout while May and I prefer the one at The Banana Leaf Apollo. I introduced them to Ghandi restaurant and am glad that they liked it. At Sentosa, after the visit to Underworld water, May and I were happy to chat the Palawan Beach in Koufu while Henning checked out the bridge and view tower. I was out the whole day with Amber!! I still feel very energetic and wanted to bring them to Chomp Chomp for dinner but they already had enough for the day.

Our Japan trip is firm. We would be travelling during the Mar holidays.

It's Feb 2009

2009-02-05T17:38:00.000-08:00

It seems CNY was not long ago but today the calendar reads 6 Feb, time really flies. Alden has been a good boy since school reopens. He can get up around 7.30am by himself some of the mornings and is rather good-tempered when daddy gets him ready for school. His teacher says that he learns a lot and he is an observer. I am glad with his teacher's comments as it shows that she has paid attention to understand him.

Yesterday, we had paid Eve a visit at her place for the first time. Hillard is fine. Hui Leng and Wee Wei were there too with their children. It was a nice catch up. Wee Wei is determined to stop at 2 while Hui Leng is planning for a 2nd child.

By end of today, we would finalise the dates for our Japan trip. Both Alden and hubby are excited more so than me. Why am I not excited?? Menopause? Age drains adrenaline? What's the answer.....

Chinese New Year 2009

2009-01-27T19:12:00.000-08:00

It's the 3rd day of CNY 2009! Yesterday, we had quite a full gathering at my parents' place as lots of aunties and uncles, my sis and brother were all present. Dad cooked a generous feast and all were very happy to see each other. Alden started school today and luckily hubby is off so we have some personal time together. We are going to make passport for Alden. Yes! I have been feeling gulity about him not hopping on any plane yet at his age when some of his peers have been to places. Hope to bring him to Japan for his first trip overseas this Mar/Apr. Still deciding on the month.

3rd day after school reopened!

2009-01-06T07:02:00.000-08:00

This photo was taken when Alden was very much a baby. To think that he is now in nursery class. He is still with pap! I decided not to switch this year, maybe next year and for my indecision, I had to forfeit the deposit for the new kindergarten. Anyway, he is into his 3rd day of his nursery class with Teacher Adeline and he likes her (thank god!) though in his heart, he still prefers Teacher Mohan (his pre-nursery teacher who has a heart of gold). Through my peeping work at him in class, I can see that he has opened up a little to play with his friends. At least he talks to Nicholas and is willing to hold a girl's hands. He responded to teacher's request to turn around and lift his hands as she sung. As a brother, he is very caring and kind to Amber. For example, he asked me to change Amber's diaper when I told him that her diaper is full. When he saw Amber fidgeting in her sarong, he told me that Amber wishes to be carried :-) My inlaws have gone to Genting and my parents have gone to China and the aunty cleaner is also in Genting!! So, I am alone in the day to cope with 2 children these few days.

Photo taken in Bukit Timah Hill Playground

2009-01-01T23:49:00.000-08:00

It is a rare photo of our family as usually daddy is the photographer. This shot is possible with the aid of the camera stand. We had brought the children to Bukit Timah Hill playground as recommended by Sarah. It was a very quiet weekday morning. Wish everyone a Happy New Year 2009 :-)

The Tooth Fairy

2008-12-14T16:53:00.000-08:00

Before we went for The Tooth Fairy musical, I could not help but wonder how the fairy would look like. When she appeared, she was indeed lovely in a white layered ballerina dress with a magic wand and tiara. I love fairies since young, yes till now!! The DBS Theatre is located in a poshier area then the Victoria Theatre. It was a 1 hour 45 mins musical and was surprised that Alden could sit through it and at least could laugh at times. The musical was well-done at least I dun get bored cos I am not the sort who really loves musicals. I am considering whether to bring him for another next year.

Last Sat, we had gone for the best BBQ that I had ever tried. A relative of ours was celebrating her baby girl's full month. Their baby is big at 4 kgs plus for a newborn. Her hubby can really BBQ very well. The food was well-prepared by herself and her mother. A lot of yakitori style meat and vegs. We had a good time with them.

8 Ladybird Stories before Bedtime

2008-12-04T08:11:00.000-08:00

Alden's bedtime is still past 11pm!! Tonight even after daddy delivered his version of Momotaro's stories, Alden's eyes are still wide open. Daddy has been very innovative as his Momotaro's stories is mixed with other cartoon characters and monsters. He can tell the stories without story books. His story always starts with "One day .... and what to do? how to kill the monster?" (daddy always tells his stories in Chinese as Alden is so comfortable in the language now due to daily conversations with inlaws). The first time he was asked the question, Alden replied " Call 995!" So Alden is captivated as it is something very different from hearing stories from me as I only tell him stories from books (not very creative). Tonight, after daddy's tale, I gave in to telling him 8 Ladybird Stories before he finally hit the sack! By then, the clock reads 12am. I really wonder how he is going to get out of bed at 7.15am on 2 Jan 2009 to arrive in time for 8am class! God, please show us a miracle without the tears!

Amber's photo

2008-11-27T00:22:00.001-08:00

This is Amber's photo just after full month hair shave. She is 3 months old now. She is a sweetie pie and sleeps through the night. Very close to mummy's heart :-) compared to Alden who is in his terrible 3!

Amber's 2 months old

2008-10-21T00:43:00.001-07:00

My blog is turning rusty. Yes, I know!! Yes, my girl is 2 months old now. hee...still breast-feeding her...90% express, 10% latch on.

I have registered Alden for a new kindergarten next year. Really hope he will adapt well to the new environment, teachers. I am a little afraid as he reflected his wish to stay in PAP and to be with Teacher Mohan when I prompt him about this matter. But I know that Teacher Mohan would definitely will not be his teacher even if he continues with PAP. He has taken a liking to his Chinese enrichment class on Sun as he likes the teacher. Alden is really particular about his teachers. I pray that he likes his new kindergarten teacher.

39 weeks 3 days preggie!

2008-08-07T11:28:00.000-07:00

It's 4 days countdown to Amber's EDD. I can't help but wonder if she will follow Alden's footsteps to pop right on EDD. I do pray that she does else Dr Ang would want to induce birth which I dun like as it may run risk of C-section. I like to go the natural way but with epidural cos my pain threshhold is low.

Maybe it's my 2nd baby so I do not feel so excited as when I had Alden. Though I am curious how different is it like to care for a baby girl versus a baby boy. I am curious whether she is like what Dr Ang described as having long limbs.

I can't quite decide on which Chinese name to give her!! Hubby is about to give up on me regarding this matter...hee!

It's 080808 a date to remember as it marks the opening of the Olympics to be held in China. And many C-sections are scheduled on this date to add. I dun want to be handled by overworked nurses hence I rejected Dr Ang's suggestion to induce on this date.

Alden is getting very close to my inlaws as he knows my limitations in helping him in routines. So sweet of him each time he says "Mummy got baby inside..." and "Papa bring Alden go hospital see mummy see doctor..." I want to say "I love you Alden!"

Victoria's mum is coming over this Monday. A lot of things to catch up with her as never seen her since we left GUG. Joeie is thinking of putting Kerris and Kerrin in GUG as Kerris rejected nearby childcare centre...wow, that would cost her a bomb. Kerrin is turning 10 months old soon.

Oh dear, I better get back to sleep!

The Line - Shangri-la Hotel

2008-07-23T10:55:00.001-07:00

We had celebrated hubby's birthday at The Line - Shangri-la Hotel. It was a venue well-chosen as all of us were satisfied with the spread and everyone found something we like to eat ...hee! Bought a strawberry fresh cream cake on actual day for hubby and he was very touched cos he felt that he had not have a birthday cake for some birthdays. Alden was cute ...he kept wanting to include himself as the birthday boy.

I am 37 weeks 1 day preggie now and 20 days countdown to delivery date.

Not so nice news is fil got 2 stitches on his right foot due to a splinter cut from the lawn mowing machine. Need 10 days to go back to doc for unstitching.

Alden's first day in school after June holidays

2008-06-23T11:37:00.001-07:00

The June holidays was over. It was Alden's first day at school in PAP after the long break. I did not stay around to monitor as he was alright when I left him with teachers at the onstart on class. So, I had went to chat with Serene over breakfast. He was alright too when I went to pick him up though the teacher reported that he did cry a little when asked about what he had done during the holidays. He had told teacher that he had been to the elephant show in the zoo. Guess it reminded him of my absence when thinking about it! A new boy had reported to class. So, still there is more boys than girls in the class.

Last Sun, Alden had spotted a banner featuring some children dancing from a dance school. I had asked him whether he wanted to go to dance school. He replied, "No" and when I asked him which school would he want to go then. He replied, "PAP!" Glad he has this attachement to PAP which makes me think twice about switching him to Ascension Kindergarten next year.

Kungfu Panda

2008-06-23T11:28:00.000-07:00

I had stayed over at my parents' place last week when hubby was on a business trip in BKK. Had lunch in Din Tai Fung with Alden and was window shopping around when we stumbled upon the cinema in Tampines Mall. Despite my reservations about the hyped Kungfu Panda that was screening, I asked Alden whether he was keen to watch it. Surprisingly, he nodded his head. (Guess he was tired of moving around in the mall!). So, I bought a ticket since the staff allowed him to enter without one though he is about 92cm now. It turned out to be a great choice movie! It was his first time watching a movie and luckily it was a humorous and interesting movie so it managed to capture his attention span.

Amber still continue to disturb me during my sleep by being active in my tummy. I can't help but wonder what she would be like when she is out of my comfortable tummy!! Mil seems to have forgotten that my intention to have my confinement completed in my parents' place. Alden is so attached to me putting him to sleep in the nights. How is he going to adapt to my absence for 1 month?? I am 33 weeks pregnant now. About 5 more weeks or so to go!! Gambarimasu!

28 weeks pregnant

2008-05-22T06:23:00.000-07:00

Time flies. I am 28 weeks pregnant and gained 9kg which in my gynae's opinion is good. Baby girl weighs 1.172kg and has long legs. Tomorrow is Alden's meet the teacher session.

Cebu trip coming soon!

2008-04-27T12:29:00.000-07:00

It's been a week since my inlaws had gone for their Taiwan trip and once they are back, we will be flying to Cebu for our short break.

Alden has gotten used to his classes and there will be another new girl joining tomorrow (Mon). I would also be going to the gynae myself as hubby needs to take care of sending him to school.

It's weird but I have even dreamt of not having an easy delivery this round. I did not have such fears when I had Alden. It seems like the more I know, the more I fear....hee!!!

I was telling my hubby about the need to get Alden into bed around 10pm. Obviously, the message did not drum into his ears as he played Wiinx games with Alden till 11.30pm while I was already dozing off in bed. Seems like it's hard to get a child to sleep early when the daddy is a night bird!!

I think I should give Christopher a call to ask about his well-being ever since gotten enlisted into national service. We had dinner at his mum's place (my aunt) last night. Alden was very well-behaved in her place. He is much more at ease when he goes to my parents' place.

He can understand

2008-04-13T17:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Alden flipped over the lower part of my blouse to reveal my growing tummy. He gave it a few pats and said "mummy tummy bigger and bigger" and then pointed at it and said "my sister!" So touching that he can understand that his coming sister is growing inside my tummy. I hope he will be a loving and caring brother to his younger baby sister.

We had a good dinner with Kary and her family in Toa Payoh North, Botak Jones. Alden had fun with the 2 gals playing massage on the adults.

My second baby is a ??

2008-03-01T08:01:00.000-08:00

The final wait has ended....hee...my second child is going to be a girl. Interestingly in our Nov 05 mummies thread from you know where, there are many mummies who had a boy and then went on to have a baby girl. I am going to fall into this category! Well, at least 90% for now according to my gynae. The detailed scan will be done next month :-)

Airport again!

2008-02-02T14:39:00.000-08:00

Airport we went again! This time with inlaws and hubby. Alden really had fun and even din want to go home and asked to go back to airport again in the car journey home even though it was nearly 10pm. The Kopitiam maybe slightly more expensive but the quality of food, desserts and drinks are better. Alden ate his fill too. Saw A380 again at T2 but for viewing purposes, daytime would be a better time.

Paid deposit for confinement nanny so at least settled 1 matter off my mind.

Finally went to Botak Jones

2008-01-12T23:22:00.000-08:00

We had a gathering in Toa Payoh North Botak Jones with Spencer, Gabriel and Poh Poh. It was a great nostalgic meeting with them and Alden clicked with them. It was right after Alden's Chinese class. The class was pretty hands on and the teachers are good and overall am glad that I had sent him. Likely to continue. We had Piccolo Pizza at Botak Jones place instead. The Magaritta Pizza and Signature Pizza were good. The strawberry chocolate fondue from another shop was yummy delicious. All prices are hawker standard!!

3rd day of unaccompanied school

2008-01-09T07:19:00.000-08:00

Alden cried the loudest today!! So pitiful but I am not moved. Cos at home he is a tyrant, he chooses the grands over me to put on his clothes, din want to take his bath when I asked him causing grands to think I wanna take things easy out.....so I am not moved by his cries! hee!!

Brought him to T3 and he had fun with Ryan. Beverly has recovered well and looking good. She is really into child modeling and stuff but I feel it may be too stressful for the child.

We 2 crazy mums went to T3 without going to the viewing gallery!! But did let our tods take the skytrain till to their hearts' content. At parents' s place after T3 and had nice porridge with mum. Dad as usual cooked crabs again!! and carrot cake!!

First 2 days of unaccompanied school

2008-01-07T21:48:00.000-08:00

The first 2 days of unaccompanied school is over. Alden has survived!! haha...he wails only at separation and on and off in class but overall he is all right. At pick up time today he did not cry unlike yesterday.

It's time to grow up!! Poor kids, we started at 6 years old but they start at 2 now!!

Alden's 1st day of school at Catholic Kindergarten

2008-01-01T22:52:00.000-08:00

It's 2 Jan 2008 - Alden's first day of accompanied class at Catholic Kindergarten. It's not much of a difference to him since it was still accompanied. The challenge comes after the 3rd day when it is unaccompanied!! Like the playground but teachers-wise, I am not impressed.

Underwater World, Dolphin Lagoon and Songs of the Sea

2008-01-01T22:34:00.000-08:00

It was New Year's Eve and we decided to bring Alden to Sentosa for the above before school opens on 2 Jan 2008. He loves watching the pink dolphins andthe huge stingrays in Underwater World had the deepest impression on him as I had bought some fishes for him and daddy to feed the stingrays.

Songs of the Sea was really worth the visit for $6. The night ended late at 10pm but it was deemed early for the countdown party at Siloso Beach. We wished we could join them but no way with Alden around who was begging to go to sleep by then.

Alien Attack!!

2007-12-20T09:19:00.000-08:00

I had bathed thrice today. First time was the usual bath that everyone takes in a day. Second time was I felt a little itchy on the body. Third time was due to an ALIEN ATTACK! Alden had vomitted on me at near midnight. He's been coughing badly with lots of phlegm. That's the ALIEN in him..:-((

Kerrin has arrived!!

2007-12-11T08:11:00.001-08:00

Backdated post!! Kerrin has arrived in this little planet on 10 Dec 2007. So we will be expecting a party on 10 Jan 2008.

Long overdue facial

2007-12-11T08:06:00.000-08:00

Today, I finally had my long overdue facial at Kose, Takashimaya with my favourite beautician. I look forward to seeing her again in Jan 2008. As much as I can, I hope to have facial once a month. Saw Birkenstock at 30% discount at World of Sports there, aiyo, so tempted to buy another pair!!

Collect Alden's musical instruments. They are so lovely and real!! We made great music with them as a threesome group (daddy included).

Giraffee feeding and Jaguar feeding time

2007-11-15T15:47:00.000-08:00

Beverly and I had agreed upon West Coast sandplay outing but when I tagged along Cecila, she suggested going to the zoo so we went along with the idea and it was a great switch! Cos we managed to catch the giraffee and jaguar feeding times which was wonderful to watch. The giraffee were so up close that we could see their eyelashes. In fact, there was one which kept poking his head in so much so that we could have touched it if permitted. The jaguars were so powerful in their leaps for the fishes! So much action! It was the first time that Alden and I watch these two feedings so there was some sense of satisfaction. But Alden was cranky when we were having lunch in the Forest Garden restaurant. He wanted to get out after his meal but it was raining and we have yet to finish our meals. Beverly signed up for single membership which is a great idea as it is cheaper and her hubby is often too tight up with work to go to the zoo. After our lunch, it stopped raining so we went on for a tram ride without Beverly as she wanted to leave earlier as she was expecting some guests in the later afternoon. Got to know that Jasmine has given birth to a pair of twin boys....so joyous and lovely occasion!!

Arrggg....I wanted to bring Alden for breakfast at Globetrotters at 8am this morning but he is still sleeping!! Wanted to let him have fun at the playarea. Why 8am you may ask...cos hubby would be able to have a quick bite before heading for work. But looks like it's a dream now!

Last Sun, we managed to catch the movie "Lust and Caution" after Bryan's birthday party. In between, we still had to buy a water tap in a matter of 30mins cos show starting at 3.30pm but we were only at the box office at 3.10pm. It was a rush rush thingy! If you have seen the movie, you would know that we ran for our lives too just like how Tony Leung ran when Tang Wei asked him to do so! We both enjoyed the show.

Finally saw Benjamin!

2007-11-09T03:37:00.000-08:00

Alden has on and off brought up Benjamin's name. So, I decided to bring him to United Square this morning to catch Benjamin in his class. Really lucky! We saw his mum and him even before we reach GUG. Alden was happy and Benjamin could recognise him too. Collected back Alden's report card and remaining card stuff as well. Saw Teacher Aida who is sporting a new straight hair look. Allyssa is in the same class as Benjamin. Rui Ee too! What a small world!

Bought more puzzles for Alden to play!! Daddy would kill me if he knows..haha! He slept in the taxi on the way back. So, I did the Cheong Hei tag from Judy.

Cheong Hei Tag

2007-11-08T08:08:00.000-08:00

1. Name one person who made you laugh last night?

A sistic lady at Hougang Mall serving me.

2. What were you doing at 0800? Still in slumberland.....

3. What were you doing 30 minutes ago? Being forced by Alden to play dough with him cos it was already 11.45pm.

4. What happened to you in 2006? Lack of sleep, lack of rest, lack of movies, lack of facials ....

5. What was the last thing you said out loud? Alden, do you want to sleep?

6. How many beverages did you have today? 4 glasses of plain water, 1 cup of milo

7. What color is your hairbrush? White colour.

8. What was the last thing you paid for? Mango dessert with pomelo at Hougang Mall.

9. Where were you last night? Hougang Mall

10. What color is your front door? Beige

11. Where do you keep your change? In the coin compartment of my magenta wallet.

12. What’s the weather like today? Cooling, nice day!

13. What’s the best ice-cream flavor? Cherry Garcia from Bens and Jerry

14. What excites you? When Alden loves to read the books I buy

15. Do you want to cut your hair? No. I just dyed a new colour yesterday.

16. Are you over the age of 25? I am done with 25 donkey years ago

17. Do you talk a lot? No. Wish I can make more small talk though.

18. Do you watch the O.C.? What's O.C. ? haha...

19. Do you know anyone named Steven? Yes. My dad.

20. Do you make up your own words? No.

21. Are you a jealous person? Yes. When Alden prefers my inlaws over me.

22. Name a friend whose name starts with the letter ‘A’. Allyssa

23. Name a friend whose name starts with the letter ‘K’. Karen

24. Who’s the first person on your received call list? My brother

25. What does the last text message you received say? Thanks for the information, will check out the website.

26. Do you chew on your straw? Used to when young, not anymore!

27. Do you have curly hair? No.

8. Where’s the next place you’re going to? Bed

29. Who’s the rudest person in your life? Can't pin point on one person.

30. What was the last thing you ate? A small packet of cheese rings.

31. Will you get married in the future? No.

32. What’s the best movie you’ve seen in the past 2 weeks? Nil. Told you "lack of movies"

33. Is there anyone you like right now? Joan my neighbour's daughter whom Alden likes to play with.

34. When was the last time you did the dishes?At 8.45pm after drinking a bowl of soup.

35. Are you currently depressed? Yes. Coz I am deprived from my sleep!!

36. Did you cry today? Yes. Recalled how painful my dad felt yesterday at SGH for the CT scan and yet he still shows he cares for me. And I can't go to Malacca with my parents today as hubby dun want me to go leaving Alden in inlaws' care.

37. Why did you answer and post this? I read Judy's blog and asked to be tagged. haha! Find the questions easy to answer and I owe her one tag!

38. Tag 5 people who would do this survey. I dun like to tag people!!

Alden is 2 years old

2007-11-08T07:35:00.000-08:00

It was just a little party we had for Alden for his 2nd birthday. He knew it was his birthday and the happiest thing for him is to stand in front of the Doraemon birthday cake and blew the red little candles out on his own. He has seen many of his classmates done it and has been waiting for his chance to do so!! I could see that he had enjoyed himself from the smiles on his face. It was worth the effort in throwing the party for him :-) I had spent time to find a nice Doraemon picture to send to Sweet Secrets for making the cake. It was with much anticipation when I picked up the cake cos I was afraid that the colours of the printing may not be outstanding. But my worries were unfounded. The colours were lovely, just that the cake was a little tad too sweet. The mini buffet from Neo Garden met our expectations. Dad's huge pot of curry chicken was warmly welcomed. Mil also added to the list by frying mushroom mee hoon. Think we might do it again next year!!

15 Oct 2007 Zoo

2007-10-16T07:06:00.001-07:00

Daddy was off from work and offered to bring us to the zoo. Alden had enjoyed the polar bear, penguin, seals show. The white tigers were very alert, pacing up and down as if ready to pounce on anyone! Ah Meng the 49 year old veteran orang utan was on her walking round with the marshall. We had reached the zoo at 8.45am and left around 1.30pm. Just shortly after we left the zoo, huge drops of rain fell. Alden also fell into his deep sleep. Apparently tired from the excitement at the zoo. Miraculously, he remembered the Children World's ball room as he asked for it despite not being able to enter as it was closed for renovation. He was last there when he was 14 months old.

After we reached home, his cousins came. Despite hubby telling them not to mix the different coloured doughs, they did!! I was freaking mad. Not to talk about having to clear the pasta making mould which was filled with dough pieces of different colours. I do not wish to appear petty about this. But the other time they had spoiled the Kumon playset when they came! Arrggh.... I tried so hard to keep that pasta set clean and tried hard not to mix the colours..but someone else mess it up for me instead!!!

Kerris is down with cough, flu and fever. According to her mum, she had caught it from Russell. Tough luck! Hope she recovers fast.

I ordered a Doraemon cake for Alden's coming 2nd birthday.

11 Oct 07 GUG GIfted Tots last lesson

2007-10-12T05:29:00.000-07:00

11 Oct 07 - It was the last lesson at GUG for Alden. Well, he was not the only one to leave the class. Xylia too. Victoria is transferring to Mon and Wed, 11.30pm class. I did feel sad. After all, Alden has attended 15 months of classes here since Gifted Babes. Well, all good things have to come to an end. Coincidentally, it was Cayla's 2nd birthday as well. Patsy did a smart thing of ordering small individual pieces of Sesame St cakes rather than one large cake. Easy to handle and economical!

10 Oct 07 - This is a backdated post. Supposed to join Cayden, Fiona to day zoo but Alden overslept in the morning.

Maplewood Park Lantern Festival Celebs

2007-09-21T13:40:00.000-07:00

Alden is the youngest and the only one who refused to go home even when everyone (Joan's family went with us) has gone into the car at the end of our trip to Maplewood Park Lantern Festival Celebs. He had loved watching the lion and dragon dance when MP Cynthia Phua arrived. There was a SCDF demo of extinguishing fire on a tray. So I jumped upon the chance to show about fire-fighting and put the storybook of "Fire Truck" into live play. He was so excited that he wanted more! He also danced and jumped to the karaoke music sung by aunties and uncles. He was fascinated by the sight of little children lighting up candles on the floor and lanterns and all. My little one loves crowds. He enjoys being with people. It must have been quite a night for him. Met Sarah's family there too, what a coincidence! Heard from Joan's mum that there will be another one near Compasspoint tomorrow evening and also one at Paya Lebar Kovan cc. Wondering whether to bring Alden again but it's pretty sian for me.

Kaku san's blog to go

2007-09-20T08:25:00.000-07:00

I am one of those guilty of not updating my blog regularly and doing extras extras for it. But I am sad when one of my friends' blog ends as it somehow closes a door especially when that friend is far away like Kaku san in Tokyo. More so when her son is about the same age as Alden and we had gotten preggie together when I was living in Tokyo. Luckily, Christine's blog is still in place.

The toughest part of hubby's reservice is over and he is definitely glad to hear that the subordinate who had wished to resign is staying back but be posted to work in Japan HQ instead. This turns out to be a bonus as she can better help liaise with HQ people. Good for him!

Alden has learnt how to pee in his red potty and shows a sense of achievement each time he does it well. I am so glad he picked up the idea fast. He has yet to poo in his potty so the next task is to teach him to do that. I bought his first underpants today. Hope he will like them.

I really enjoyed having the use of the car all to myself for the last week. If only I have a car on my own, I will feel much happier.

Withdrawal Notice to GUG

2007-09-06T08:25:00.000-07:00

I sent in the withdrawal letter to GUG after Alden's class ended today. Felt a twinge of sadness as after all, he has been with this school for 14 months. I wonder if he will miss his classes when it stops in mid Oct. He knows his abc and nos 1 to 10 and is overly familiar with the warm up and ending songs. He looks at me in class rather than the teachers. He is only interested during project and snack times. So, I just feel it's high time to move on. Please let mummy know what you are thinking, my little one!

Bought him another puzzle from Growing Fun. He played with it happily when he reached home. He likes puzzles and prefers to do it himself. He gets frustrated when I try to help him as he wants to fix it himself. Next time, I would give him more time to do so.

Dinner at Holland V

2007-08-11T06:40:00.000-07:00

Alden enjoys his JG class as usual. After class, we went to Botanical Gardens and he was very happy to see the turtles, fishes and birds. He manages to do some feeding to them. Holland V was the destination for dinner. It's has been many years since I have gone there. Quite some changes. Realised Alden likes to watch lion dance as there was one there. Shall take note of this!

Missed eggie again!

2007-08-08T00:52:00.000-07:00

We missed the eggie again this month. Hubby was really disapppointed. I prefer to have a Leo baby so did not feel that down. Well, we can try again. I think I have ovulated later. Really must do a good study and catch it in October!!

National Day is tomorrow and glad that hubby is not working cos it's a public holiday. I want to introduce the Toa Payoh fish curry stall to him. Shall go for lunch there.

Another bump!

2007-08-01T20:31:00.000-07:00

The little one is showing his stubborn streaks, characteristics of his daddy in his younger days according to my mil. To her, such inherited traits are not a blessing.

The little one was bent on watching Baby Bright Vcd and I selected another instead for him. After that, he refused to go to take his bath and still wanted to watch Baby Bright. Looking at the time which is getting late as he has to go to class today, I refused. He was so hopping mad that he wanted to run out of the toilet and in my intent to close the door, he banged into it. Another bump is borned. A big one! Ouch! He got so violent that mil came to his rescue and wanted to grant him his wish but now he refused to watch it. See, my little one really has quite a stubborn side to him. Heng Nan Gao!

2 bumps

2007-07-29T22:57:00.000-07:00

We were at Toa Payoh for lunch. I was having my lunch while Alden went to walk around with inlaws as they had theirs earlier when I brought Alden around. We had to take turns these days as Alden just refuse to stay still when we eat together. I had just finished my prawn mee hoon and called them to say that I am ready to go home. I heard Alden's cries at the other end and gathered he must have fell and hurt himself. True enough, mil said that he run fast and fell down. As a result, he got 2 bumps on his head.

Happy Daze

2007-07-27T07:17:00.000-07:00

Oh yes! I forgot to mention that my hubby and I discovered a great chill out place in Serangoon Garden known as "Happy Daze". We tried some German beer and fell in love with Paulaner. Mind you, I am not the beer type person but am comfortable with this. The blue cheesecake was yummydelicious too. Can't wait to go chill out there again with friends and hubby!

Alden can sit up in his sarong now so I tried to make him sleep straight in his cot. Of course he wailed like no day no night. Of course, the grands here to save him from his plight. Of course my plan to change his sleeping pattern failed miserably! He simply need to scream "ye ye, ye ye, ye ye.."and the godfairy will come. No wonder I need to chill out more often!

Heavy rain

2007-07-26T19:37:00.000-07:00

Heavy rain, thunders...what a way to start a weekend.

Alden surprises me this morning by specifying the shirt that he wants to wear. I pulled out a long sleeve striped shirt for him after he had his bath but he rejected and only wants to wear his Barney shirt. This boy really has a mind of his own.

When he was in his sarong taking his nap, he makes me laugh by saying "Alden mark mi mi, Alden mark mi mi..." which means in Hokkien to close one's eyes. He knows I want him to sleep so he says it to let me know that he understands what I want. So sweet. My heart was full of love for him.

Daddy has reservice today but will be heading home early so we planned to go out for dinner with inlaws.

visits to friends' places

2007-07-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we went to a friend's place somewhere near Holland Road instead of going to Julia Gabriel's gathering as last minute decision due to unpredictable weather. Alden had fun there playing with trucks, buses and train sets. It was a huge bungalow built with a tropical feeling. There's this tree standing in front of the living room and the sides are surrounded by huge plants. There were lots of glass used in the house. It's quite amazing. She has lots of praise for her Myanmese maid.

Today, we went to another friend's place in Marine Terrace. This is a 5 room flat having a fantastic sea view and super windy. But the weather is rainy so bad day to go out. This friend has an auntie who comes in weekly for 5 hours each time.

1 clown, 2 clowns...

2007-07-19T02:18:00.000-07:00

In GUG class today, Alden saw a picture of clowns held by the teacher and he said, "1 clown, 2 clowns, 3 clowns" ...oh so happy to see him progressing well.

Today, we will be going to my parents' place to stay for a few days to give my inlaws a break from Alden's tagging. Always look forward to staying with my parents.

I really must cut down his milk intake to make him eat more solids.

I have been away for long!

2007-07-17T19:57:00.000-07:00

Oh dear! I have been not blogging for long. That's one reason why I dun really tell friends about my blog cos I do stop blogging at times.

Had came back from a Bangkok trip and still missing the hospitality of my thai friends. They are really warm people compared to Singaporeans I must say. Shopping there is fun and money is really more well spent due to the exchange rate.

Read some fairy tales, Yes! I am kind of shameful to admit that I still read these, haha....I was telling my hubby how I wish our address can be known as "No. xx Fairy Lane" and have a fairy like garden with trees cut out in shapes of fairies and paintings of fairies and elves in the house. Dream on...

Alden is attending Julia Gabriel weekend class besides his GUG classes. He is having fun. He enjoys saying his numbers and alphabets everyday. He likes to climb here and there, go swimming, walking to the neighbours.

Elmo Show

2007-06-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

Last Sun, Alden absolutely enjoyed the Elmo show at Downtown East. It was indeed spectacular. Hubby and I also enjoyed it very much. After the 1.5 hours show, Alden was still asking "see elmo!" Daddy wants to buy Alden an Elmo soft toy seeing that he likes Elmo so much.

Today, we met up with Beverly and Ryan in Vivocity. I managed to bring Alden to gymboree playgym for an hour before meeting them. Beverly and I shopped at Toyrus, Growing Fun and Mothercare. I bought Alden a pair of sandals from Colette. We enjoyed chatting lots at Burger King. Alden enjoyed himself so much that in the evening, he still wanted to go out!! So to stop his "nagging", I brought him out to the nearby shopping centre with the company of our neighbours. Joan is such a sweet girl who cares much about Alden.

Pretty shocking news!

2007-06-26T02:46:00.000-07:00

Kerris was supposed to attend GUG again today but absent. Victoria is another one who has been absent for 3 lessons consecutively. I decided to sms both mummies and what shocking news I received. Both of their mils have passed away suddenly. It makes me feel bad about having a tiff with my mil the other day. I should have been more tolerant of old folks and treat them with patience. Not just thinking about me, me and my lack of sleep due to caring for Alden the past week as he had unfortunately caught the cough virus from his cousin. It is the 2nd time that his cousin spread the cough to him. I must stay away from his cousin whenever he has the cough. Must leave asap!

Gogobambini's gathering

2007-06-16T15:35:00.000-07:00

It was a great turnout for Nov thread mummies/daddies/babes in Gogobambini. It was nice to meet many new mummies and see familiar faces. We were late as daddy had touched down in the morning from Bombay and we had to collect our new car and rest well before proceeding to Gogobambini. Poor daddy was also having a little problem with his stomach. Alden had enjoyed his play there with many other friends. It was crowded as I had expected since I knew there would be another birthday party there cos Victoria is attending. I remembered Alicia, the birthday girl after seeing her mother there.

Over at Botanical Gardens, Alden had refused to settle down for dinner and I had no choice but to walk him around. We really walked pretty far cos daddy had finished his dinner and came looking for us. Other mummies/daddies also finished theirs! So, we had to miss the group photo since Alden had to take his dinner. But he had a great appetite since he burned a lot of energy walking around earlier. I noticed that he desires to play with children if he finds the game is interesting. During the walk, we saw some groups having gatherings. Alden had went forward to touch a little girl who was playing a game with another girl. That's a milestone for him as he is usually a shy boy. I must help him to develop his social skills!

COE successfully bidded!

2007-05-26T07:25:00.000-07:00

We have gotten the COE a few days ago.

Weather was great so we popped over to Chomp Chomp to have a cheap and great dinner. Borrowed a few dvds to watch!

Nissan Latio Sports

2007-05-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

We decided to buy a Nissan Latio Sports over a Honda Jazz. Bidding for the COE so hope to get it by this week! As for colour, we both agreed that silver is the best choice for us.

Alden had enjoyed his GUG class today after missing it for a week. He could pick out the picture of umbrella and pronounced "umbrella" when asked to. He could say his name "Alden" as well. Joere is having a difficult pregnancy so Charmaine has to stop classes for this term. What a shame! Instead, Eyota came to replace her. A good thing is another boy comes on board but still outnumbered by the girls!

Osteoarthritis

2007-05-14T14:41:00.000-07:00

The pain has been around for a few days so I decided to check it out at Tampines polyclinic where x-rays are available. Results indicated that the cartilage on my left knee is wearing out. One side is thinner than the other side. Not good news at all as it means I have to do a lot of changes to my daily life such as not weight bearing, reduce weight to ease the joint pain. I suspect it is due to that fall that I had so many years ago when I was in university and plus wear and tear throughout these years unware that it could lead to present stage. Well, I have to live with it since I did not take care of myself well in the past!

The Buffet

2007-05-13T08:57:00.000-07:00

It's my 2nd post of the day. Thought of ending Mother's Day with a good note compared to the first post. haha...

We had buffet lunch at The Buffet, M Hotel (directly opposite Apex Tower, Anson Rd). The spread is not huge but I definitely like the freshness of the food. I love the salad bar and swordfish sashimi best! Must go again! Alden was cooperative cos he slept half the time we were there. He did eat his share after he woke up so lucky else we could not possibly have enjoyed our lunch in peace. We went to Toy'r'us in Viviocity where he enjoyed himself and also the outdoor playground as the weather was great!

Shun Xin is turning 4 this month. He's grown up to be a nice boy :-)

Diversion of Thoughts

2007-05-12T19:29:00.000-07:00

It is Mother's Day. The morning started off with light breakfast as we plan to go for a buffet lunch. The anger started rising in me after hubby lost a Combi baby fork at the hawker centre. I like that fork very much as it came with other items in a huge set. I nearly lose control of myself by making a fuss. But before it happen, I decide to go for a shower to cool off. Hide myself away in my own thoughts as others cannot understand the turmoil in me. Last night is no exception, Alden had his unearthly hour milk feed and I always feel I am the only one losing my sleep.

In the bathroom, I divert my thoughts to the beautiful scenary that I had seen in Amorgos, one of the Greek Islands. Remembering my very thought when I was on top of the mountain overlooking the vast, turquoise sea shimmering with the tails of the sunlight on its water like a smooth piece of glittering silk. I had told myself then, "looking at this magnificent sight, any problem I have is but a minute matter. And one day should I feel troubled, I should look back at this moment!" Indeed, now is such a day when I need to recapture that magnanimous thought. I also begin to share the responsibility with my hubby of the loss. It was me who brought it out though hubby was the last to clear the table. I should have kept it when not using it when I was around. After all, it is just a fork. I should not mess with petty resentment. With that, I feel much better. What a start to Mother's Day!!

Vivio City Meet Up!

2007-05-11T13:55:00.000-07:00

I was pretty disappointed to miss the gathering last week at Yvonne's place due to my cough. But today, Yvonne was kind to arrange another gathering with Sara and this time we met in Vivo City. Heitor came along despite having worked last night, how nice of him!

The children had enjoyed themselves running around and I can see that Hunter and Allyssa gets along really well. Alden is a bit left out due to his age as he is younger than them by 7 months. But he had enjoyed roaming around the place with me. I could not get to Gymboree as Allyssa is not a member. I had managed to pass the diaper bag to Sara finally.

One very good thing is that Alden likes the food that I had ordered and finished most of it. So happy!

Could not get back to sleep after Alden's milk feed as he prolonged it by tossing in his sarong from 2am to 4am!! arrr......one of those loathed nights! Hubby would scream off his head if he is the one manning the fort.

Back in GUG

2007-05-10T02:00:00.000-07:00

With my mil's help, Alden managed to attend GUG class this afternoon. Though my cough is no longer infectious according to the doctor but I still avoid class as am afraid a little cough might make the other mums unhappy. Not to forget there is a mum who is preggie.

I am very glad to see that Alden enjoys his class after not being out of house for a week since I was sick and not able to bring him out. He knocked out after class. There are only 6 toddlers in class today. Also teachers check all children for hand, foot and mouth disease.

Tomorrow, Beverly and Rachel coming over to my place. Great! Alden will have some friends to play with while mummies chat :-)

Alden's not eating much solids

2007-05-08T21:20:00.000-07:00

Alden has refused solids these days. It's so hard to get him to eat though he does drinks his milk. I asked Dr Ang about it since I was seeing her for my cough. She said that it could be the taste of the food that he does not like!!

Other than that, Alden is active and shown huge improvements in his vocabulary and speech. He can say most of the words I tell him if told word for word. For example, he can say, "You are my only one" and "I love you" in Chinese word for word. He can say "swing", "yao" and names of colours such as pink, peach, purple, red, green. Whenever the Barney show ends with the "I love you" song, he will come over to me to get a hug from me with those telling eyes. So heart-warming. These days due to intensive care from me since inlaws were out in China, he kept calling me "Mummy, mummy, mummy..." so endearing that my mil almost feel jealous! haha!

Honda Jazz

2007-05-05T06:56:00.000-07:00

We went to test drive Honda Jazz this afternoon. Despite having test drove all the choices we had in mind, we are still unsure about which one to purchase Big Dilemma!

Oh boy, must I say it is very hard for a sick mum to take care of a toddler. My brain can't function really well. Even though daddy was around to help, I felt the strain of taking care of Alden.

At Hougang Mall in the evening, I thought I had lost my wallet in the hassle of taking care of a demanding Alden. Luckily, daddy found that I had actually had it misplaced in another bag! I am so glad that it was a case of lost and found. Imagine I am already so sick and still lose a wallet!?!

I can't wait for my inlaws to come back!! Now I really appreciate you :-)

I did not know I had it coming!

2007-05-04T01:59:00.000-07:00

I did not know I had it coming! Yes, I did not know when I was enjoying my durians, fried baby octopus, beer, fried thai style fish, chilli mao pao toufu...Coughing bad time now! I had to start coughing on the very day my inlaws left for their Shenzhen trip. Really afraid of spreading it to Alden. Auntie Barley our weekly cleaner was of great help on Friday. She stayed back till 5pm to help iron, hung clothes and took care of Alden when I went out to buy lunch. I really appreciate it right from my heart. Must tell mil of her great help!

It's a pity I could not join Rachel and Beverly as planned to go to McRitchie Reservoir today. So sad.

Hope daddy can come back early tonight to relieve me.

18 month old booster jab

2007-05-02T01:08:00.000-07:00

Alden had his 18 month old booster jab at TMC today. It is the 2nd last of his injection package. How glad I am that it is going to end soon :-) No more questioning from inlaws about why so many injections!

He did cry a little. He knew what's going to come beforehand. He kept saying "mai, mai, mai" when we were awaiting for his turn to get injected. (mai which means no in Hokkien)

Inlaws will be going to Guangzhou as of tomorrow so we have a lot of personal space to ourselves. But I have to make a trip to the West to collect free Isetan vouchers as deadline is this Friday. Without inlaws to help, I have no choice but to bring Alden along which is pretty troublesome. This is one of those times when having inlaws around is great!

Alden is of medium size according to Dr Ang. Well, I have guessed so all along!

Test drive on Labour Day

2007-05-01T07:27:00.001-07:00

It's really great of Toyota and Nissan car showrooms to be open on Labour Day. The sales teams are really considerate to car buyers knowing that people are free to view their cars. But not Honda which is closed.

Hubby and I test drove the Nissan Latio and Toyota Vios. It's really funny. Upon stepping into Toyota's showroom, I was not keen to test drive Vios at all as not impressed with the interior decor of the car but hubby managed to persuade me to test drive it. After the test drive, I changed my mind totally and think it is quite a good choice. Hubby was bewildered!

Alden had much fun in the car showrooms. He loves to sit in the new cars.

Since we have not test drove the Honda Jazz, we can't really pin down our choice of car.

Test drive on Labour Day

2007-05-01T07:27:00.000-07:00

Peaceful Sun at home

2007-04-29T02:23:00.000-07:00

No plans to go out except for my cardio stretch class. Kary and family came over so we went out for dinner nearby. It's nice yakking with my cardio stretch kakis over lunch. Think I will join such exercises for long time.

Alden had fun playing with his 2 cousins. Kary commented that Alden speaks very clearly for his age :-)

Joan from Taiwan finally got married and she even contacted me on msn. She treasures friendship very much. It's been 2 years since we last met in Tokyo before she flew back to Taiwan but she still bothers to find me! Wish her have a very blessed marriage :-)

2nd round of belly dancing beginner course

2007-04-28T00:16:00.000-07:00

There were 9 students in the new beginner belly dancing class. Jessy was absent as someone rammed into her Lexus yesterday but she will be joining us. Eve joined me this time. I lent her one of my hip scarves since I had bought 2. We were the only one who wore hip scarves besides the teacher. Haha.....

Surprise, surprise, surprise.....when I came back from belly dancing around 3pm, no one was at home still! I knew they went out for turtle soup in Geylang but where else could they have gone after that? Soon, I knew my answer cos hubby called me. They went to the car showrooms in Ubi. Alden had great fun in the children's playground!

It's so nice to have some peace alone at home. haha...terrible mum rite?

Hainanese Village Market's Lor Ah Soo Lor Mee

2007-04-25T06:59:00.000-07:00

It's been a real long time since I had the lor mee at Lor Ah Soo market. Today's lunch mil ordered a large version of it. Fil ordered nice good coffee for us. Hurray! Jda also came along with us after her music class. Glad that she likes it as well. Alden had kway chap...hahaha. Such good, simple lunches make me happy :-)

Tickets to BKK was booked today!

Gifted Tods

2007-04-24T07:23:00.000-07:00

It was Alden's first toddlers class. Initially I was worried that he might be overwhelmed by the older kids but luckily, the age gap amongst them is not that big and only 3 are boys so not too much rough play. It's just sad that Kerris would not be joining us this term as her mum is pregnant and not feeling too good. Charmaine did not turn up as well and I am really wondering what could be the problem as she has been missing in action since babes class.

Alden gobbled up the cheese, cereals and raisins during the snack time. I wish he can eat so well when he is at home.

Yvonne has postphoned our visit (Sara and me) to her place tomorrow. For me, it's a good thing though as I can meet up with Jda then to finalize booking of tickets to BKK.

Thunderstorm Monday

2007-04-23T00:24:00.000-07:00

Luckily, I do not have any plans to go out cos it's a thunderstorm Monday! We went to Punggol Plaza for lunch and run into Irene, Kitson and Hiroshi. Besides them, I saw Ethan and Joycelyn too! What a small world :-)

Music Trial

2007-04-21T07:02:00.000-07:00

Hubby and I were not quite bowled over by trial at Funan Centre so we did not sign up for Alden. Spent entire morning there and even had lunch. Good discovery about the nasi padang stall - very nice redang kambing and assam sting ray. Yummy:-)

Jessy gave me a pair of unique handmade earrings which suits belly dancers. We were both lethargic in class today like no dancing form!

Last babe class

2007-04-20T06:43:00.000-07:00

It's the last babe class and Alden is going on to the toddlers' class next week. Still Kerris and Charmaine did not turn up for class today. I heard that the tods class is full packed, not a very good news though. Anyway, we shall see.

The art and craft part was nice as it was a picture of a cute piggie. White and red paint were given and the babes were to mix them and paint on the piggie. Alden enjoyed himself so much.

Took a cab back cos moi was really tired. Met a real nice cabby who took the shortest route. So kind of him.

Alden was his active self and spent quite a bit of time in the garden this afternoon playing ball with fil.

A day out with another nice girlfriend

2007-04-19T07:32:00.000-07:00

It's a lovely day with Eve. A lovely day to chat away in Toast Box stucked away in Plaza Singapura. Alden was very cooperative (he slept away for 2.5 hours) throughout the entire time we were there. We caught up on a lot of things. It's wonderful to have friends like her. Bless her!

We share our woes and concerns. It is so nice to share.

Pretty Poems

2007-04-19T07:15:00.000-07:00

I especially like this poem as my name holds the meaning of "The Moon"

The Moon

The Moon has a face like the CLOCK in the hall;
She shines on thieves on the garden wall,
On streets and fields and harbor quays,
And birdies asleep in the forks of the trees.

The squalling CAT and the squeaking MOUSE,
The howling DOG by the door of the house,
The BAT that lies in bed at noon,
All love to be out by the light of the moon.

But all of the things that belong to the day
Cuddle to sleep to be out of her way;
And flowers and children close their eyes
Till up in the morning the sun shall arise.

Singing (something I wish I have the talent for)

Of speckled eggs the birdie sings
And nests among the trees;
The sailor sings of ropes and things
In ships upon the seas.

The children sing in far Japan,
The children sing in Spain;
The organ with the organ man
Is singing in the rain.

The Swing (dedicated to my son who loves to swing even for up to an hour)

How do you like to go up in a SWING;
Up in the air so blue?
Oh, I do think it the pleasantest thing
Ever a child can do! (no wonder my son loves it!)

Up in the air and over the WALL;
Till I can see so wide,
Rivers and trees and CATTLE and all
Over the countryside -

Till I look down on the GARDEN green,
Down on the ROOF so brown -
Up in the air I go flying again,
Up in the air and down!

Poems are life savers when one is down :-)

BKK!

2007-04-18T01:26:00.000-07:00

This morning, I blurted out my wish of going to Bangkok to my mil. Have informed hubby last evening and he is ok with it. Hahaha, she did not object but asked me not to buy anything back cos she says "Singapore everything also have" (is it her indirect way of hinting me not to go?) but anyway, I am going. Jda and Phenpimol will be my local guides. So happy, finally I am fulfilling this long term wish of Phenipimol. She has been inviting me to BKK her hometown since we knew each other 25 years ago. Yes, we are that old!! Gosh!

Kerris and Charmaine did not turn up for GUG. Kerris woke up too early and felt sleepy for class time, not sure what happen to Charmaine though. Javier went for trial today but Elaine not really impressed so she's not signing Javier for it. Next Tue will be the new term and Alden together with Cayden, Charmaine, Kerris, Tyler will be promoting to toddler class with the same teacher in room 2.

Me going to Jda's place for chit-chat and book BKK flight. Hurray! I must relax too :-)

Nice meeting

2007-04-16T14:21:00.000-07:00

It was a cozy gathering with Jda, P.P., sis and her hubby at Spinelli Coffee Company. I was so happy to see them that I rattled on like a machine gun...hahaha!

1 not so nice news is my mens has arrived. So next cycle!

Still no sign!

2007-04-15T19:40:00.000-07:00

2 more days before my mens date but still no signs of staining :-) Well but you never know. I initiated going to Bishan Library and have lunch in Junction 8. So, I made Alden take his morning nap. I woke him up at 8am this morning so he started to feel sleep around 10am. I shall do this again for this Sat's trial at Seimpi. Must make him wake up at 8am for milk so that we can be in time for the trial. After the trial then bring him back for a bath and nap. Then I can get really to go for my belly dancing class at 12.30pm. The next round of Suzanna's beginners class will have 7 people to start with.

For this Sat's music trial class, so lucky I can get the last slot. Thanks to the mum who did not turn up last week. Think most likely I will take it on.

Continuing with Susanna's belly dancing class :-)

2007-04-13T23:53:00.000-07:00

7 of us would be continuing with Susanna's belly dancing class. There would be no break. I would also like to join Kevy's class for exposure sake.

Chomp Chomp - We went to C.C. for dinner with inlaws and little Alden. We were there at 5.30pm which is great before the crowds cram in. We were out to have a feast, just a hint, my fil had eaten 5 types of food. rahahaha! sounds rojak, rite? We left very happy even though it was drizzled a little just when we left that place. Inlaws were surprisingly spontaneous as usually they are not keen to go there due to traffic, heat and crowd. Guess they wanna make up for last evening's disastrous dinner at Ah Seah's Eating House. Luckily, I had meehoon soto instead of Ah Seah's porridge. It was a great choice!!

Alden could say "Please, more" to me when he wanted to have the sugar cane juice that I was drinking at Chomp Chomp. So sweet :-) This morning, he could say "fan" as GK pointed a fan to him where we had breakfast in Serangoon Ave 2.

Sleep interrupted!

2007-04-12T18:38:00.000-07:00

Last night after Alden's milk feed, he tossed and turned. As a result of shifting him here and there, I could not get back to sleep eventually. In the morning, he also woke up late as he did not sleep too. After GUG got to come back straight so that he can take a good afternoon nap. Hubby is coming home tonight from Tokyo. Yipee! Tyler managed to get a place in tods class with us this May. Wow! all 5 of them would be in the same class. Eyota also trying to get in but think he will be on the waitlist as the class is full.

Still no stains...hmmm...usually there are some stain signs before my mens come. It's either I am late or preggie. Time will tell the story.

This weekend is packed with activities!! Feel so alive!!

Day at White Sands

2007-04-12T07:32:00.000-07:00

Both of our hubbies are not in town - Bev and mine and with my inlaws out to the travel agency to pay up for their May China trip, we decided to go to White Sands! It's always so spontaneous between Bev and me. I have not been to White Sands for the last 4 years!

We had dinner at Wan Zhai, a HK style eatery which I like. Bev likes it as well. We really had great laughs chatting away despite having our active toddlers with us. Both Alden and Ryan were totally not interested in sitting in their Mercedes Prams to our horror.

Seimpi Music School is there. We had wanted to take a look at Jumping Beans but it slipped our minds entirely, thanks to our super active toddlers.

I can comprehend why Bev can't wait to send Ryan off to childcare once he turns 18 months!!

GUG

2007-04-11T04:02:00.000-07:00

At GUG today, Carris's mum told me she is pregnant and EDD is Dec this year. Another preggie, when will it be mine? I am happy for her as it was not easy for her to get preggie.

Charmine did not come to GUG again so I gathered she must be back in Hong Kong. So glad that Carris, Charmine, Caden and Alden are all going to be in the same toddler class this May. Hurry! Similar faces for them so that they would not feel so outnumbered by the older toddlers.

Hubby still in Tokyo though I wish he is around with me and Alden.

I was looking forward to getting my hip scarves but Ms Veni was busy so cannot get them again.,

Arranging for Alden to attend a Seimpi music trial soon. Hope he likes it!

My Gym Trial

2007-04-10T08:07:00.000-07:00

The day started off early as planned. Alden was up by 8am as he was well-rested (thanks to the day at Bugis J. day before) and off I whisked him to Parkway Parade for the My Gym trial.

Overall, I am pleased with the teachers and teaching style especially like the puppetry stories.

But I did not sign up as it's really far from our place. Though I like dropping by Little India to have my nasi bryani and mango lassi!!! Alden slept on the bus ride back to mrt station. So it was a real test of my arm muscles as I also managed to buy lunch back for inlaws, cleaner and myself on top of carrying a sleeping toddler!

A day at Bugis Junction

2007-04-09T08:45:00.000-07:00

Wow! I had spent an entire afternoon with Alden in Bugis Junction. Level 3 children's area, walked around many places. I was all out to tire him so that he will go to bed early tonight as tomor very early in the morning, he will be off to a trial at My Gym in Parkway Parade. Ended up he was really tired and slept soon after he hit the sarong but I could not sleep. Geezzzzz.......

sent letter of withdrawal

2007-04-04T07:46:00.000-07:00

I can't bear to send Alden to childcare centre I so realise. Hence, the letter of withdrawal sent!

Hips card

2007-04-03T07:44:00.000-07:00

After so much hearsay about the playground at Forum Galleria, finally I brought Alden there. I was not alone. Yati and Mohamed came too. I paid for the hips cards, just $10 for 2 years. Alden does enjoy the place but it was a tad too crowded around 5pm so he cried twice due to being hit by a boy accidentally and also knocked on some wood himself. Luckily, he was fine after that. I went to see belly dancing at Seng Kang CC. The teacher is Ms Veni. When I reached home, it's already past 10pm. I shall decide which class to join eventually. Bought stuff at Vitakids for Alden - cod liver fish oil and vitamin C. Expensive!

Just be natural and give love

2007-04-01T22:45:00.000-07:00

Today I feel so natural caring for Alden. Yes, I have been a mum to him for 17 months but today, I am not so uptight and I am so patient with him during lunch. I brought him to Charlton Playground in the morning despite the sunny weather and play with him with all my heart. Watched Fun Song Factory and Elmo while feeding him. He felt my love too as he laid so lovingly on my laps at one point.

I suddenly feel he should not be sent to the childcare centre in May. I suddenly feel I should cope when things happen ie I should learn to cope when I am pregnant again. Other mums did it so surely there must be a way out for me! I am confused. Well, I am not the only one. Sarah is equally bummed about what to do with our toddler. (as in where to send for classes)