Sunday, September 23

Fleeting Fun

As soon as Jaimie woke up this morning, we prepped ourselves and set forth to Sentosa, for some early morning fun. By the time we reached Palawan Beach, it was only 8.30am.


We manouvered to one of the beach bences and settled ourselves in. Mommy promptly slipped little Jae into her swim wear, and matching shades!


Little Miss Vainpot, all dressed up for that Kodak moment.


Mommy packed breakfast so we could have a little picnic by the beach.


Being the early birds meant we practically had the beach to ourselves~!


The new sand playset was a present from Jae's 姨婆. We have only gotten hold of it yesterday and immediate deployed it to action today.


There was a water feature area nearby, and as usual Jae enjoyed the splashing fun time. As usual, I ended up getting very wet.


Back to the beach. This was Jae's second dip into the sea. This time she got to experience just how salty sea water was, when a big wave splashed up onto her face!


Shortly after this shot was taken, rain clouds started to appear. We quickly packed our stuff, showered down Jaimie and headed home. By that time, it was pouring cats and dogs.

A very short, early morning funtime at the beach. Just by ourselves. It was fun while it lasted.

Showtime At Granny's (Again)

Inevitably, this afternoon's visit to Granny's turned out to be yet another of Jae's matinee performances. With the little Ng's innate desire to hao-lian fueled by the elder Ngs' appreciative laughters and supported by mommy Ng's encouragement and prompting, it became a session where Jae just went on showing off the new tricks and stuff that she has picked up recently (some of which we have no idea on their origins...).

Saturday, September 22

BZ SAT

That's what happens when the weather is too good on a weekend - we can't help but pack in many activities to fully optimise the 'rare opportunity'...way too many.

After her morning nap, Jae went over to 奶奶's place for lunch and to play.


Jaimie the little botakhead has several caps and hats accessories which she'd sometimes put on to look more feminine or when she wants to look 美美. Today she put on the Disney Princess hat that Aunty 恬敏 bought for her from HK Disneyland.


While Jae was having porridge at granny's, Angie and myself walked out to the nearby row of eateries to grab our lunch. On our way back, Angie couldn't resist buying this box of animal pastry. These 3 cuties are made of 月饼皮 and have 红豆 fillings in them. Cost only $2.50 per box.


When Jae was going to have her afternoon nap, we promised her that when she woke up we'd bring her to the swimming pool. The weather remained good, so we got to keep our promise and proceeded to Yishun SAFRA. Mommy left Jae's swim wear at home, but that didn't stop Jae from getting her dip in her diapers and shorts! With her botakhead, she'd just looked like a topless little boy, so none would be the wiser. Haha!


The moon was visible even at 6 o'clock. I snapped this shot while waiting for the girls to shower. This is the face of the moon 3 days before 中秋节.


After having dinner, we went from Yishun Ave 4 to the Bottle Tree Park along Ave 1. Once there we met up with the Chiah family. This was the shot that got our little jealous Princess into a brief crying fit.


Shortly after, BabyJaz showed up too. Here're the 3 maidens, lined up in ascending age from left to right.


Jazel 姐姐 and Jaimie, showing off her Mickey Star lantern that blasts the "Home Sweet Home" tune.


This was our second visit to the Bottle Tree Park, and the first at night. It's really a beautiful place, but pity...both Angie and me started to display symptoms of falling sick, probably due to fatigue.

That's what happens when the weather is too good on a weekend - we can't help but pack in many activities to fully optimise the 'rare opportunity'...way too many. *Sigh*

Friday, September 21

Grow Like A Champion, Grow

For our Genting trip coming up this Dec hols, we needed to get a passport made for little Jae. The last photo shoot was 10 months ago, so we thought it necessary to get a more recent picture for the passport application. So, we returned to the same Bright Studios in Clementi last Saturday.

This second visit was soooo much smoother and prompter than the previous one.

No need for any bell-ringing. No crying bouts. No wrestling with baby.

Just a simple order of "Smile, Jaimie! Say 'Cheese!'", plus a bit of finger snapping (by me, behind the camera), and it was done.

I went to collect the prints and CD-ROM from the studio just now, after knocking off from work. When I got home, I showed Angie the hardcopy prints. She was pleased with them. I then uploaded the softcopy image onto the laptop and viewed it side-by-side the earlier shot taken 10 months ago.

It was a WOW moment for both of us. While we had known that our little girl must have grown much during this intervening period, we were still pretty amused to find the signs of growing up to be quite apparent.

Well, see for yourself here - 10 months worth of Jae growth.



P/S: Ok lah...for 10 months, the hair growth really isn't much. If you are to extrapolate using the current rate of growth, little Jae would still be having too little hair in another 10 months' time. *sigh*

Wednesday, September 19

The Little Triumphs in Life

"If you're focused on what you've left behind, you will not be able to see what lies ahead." - Remy, Ratatouille

How many times have you wallowed in the past at the expense of your future?

How many times have you wailed at your losses and forgotten to celebrate your gains?

How many times have you blamed your inadequacies on any and everyone from yourself to the holy divine?

How many times have you allowed apathy to dilute your passion into numbness?

Well, be repressed no more! Tune up the emotive knobs in your system. Tune them way up!

Rejoice in the smallest of victories. Celebrate the tiniest of successes. Cheer the trivialest of triumphs.

Why be just happy when you really oughta be ecstatic!

Tuesday, September 18

"Visit from the Genies" Tag

When you're down and you're out
It wouldn't help even if you pout!
Simply make a wish to you-know-who
Hopefully it will soon come true!

Excuse my silly little limerick above. The tag that came to me from Mamatang does require me to "write a short paragraph" about being visited by the Genies, so this was what I could come up with.

** Start copying now **

Rules:

1. Write a short paragraph about your visit by the two Genies and include a link to the blog that passed on the Genie Symbol to you.

2. COPY the Rules and ENTIRE List below and post it on your blog.

3. List down your wish.

4. Place your name below the last name on the list and pass on the Genie Symbol to at least 5 other bloggers.

5. Please put up either one (or both) of the Symbols of the Genies on your blog to show that the Genies have visited your blog:

Genie KingGenie Princess

The Genie King, the Genie Princess and their trusty Genie Buddy have visited:

Mariuca would like to wish for happiness and success.

Adrian would like to wish for good health and happiness.

Emila would like to wish for happiness and success.

Trinity would like to wish good health for Jan’s brother and Yah and Wan and success

MPG would like to wish for love and peace

Jean would like to wish for stress free work environment and happiness

Cbenc12 would like to wish for health, happiness and luck for my family and friends and me too!

Paris Beaverbanks would like to wish for more publicity! Hooyah! (taps swollen head)

Giddy Tiger would like to wish for longer weekends and never-ending holidays!

Shooi would like to wish for peace on earth, love, good health and happiness.

Chinnee would like to wish for happiness and good health forever!

Hui Sia would like to wish for love, health, wealth and happiness.

Chew Lee would like to wish hubby for a successful business venture in Singapore.

Mama Tang would like to wish for health, wealth, success and happiness for everyone.

Clement would like to wish for the ability to eat without getting fat.


Welcome aboard the Magical Flying Carpet for the Ride of your Life!

Alakazam!

***End Copying Here***


Now, Clement wishes to pass this tag to:
  1. Joyce @ The Chiah Family (Haha! This time I AM faster than you!)
  2. Idy @ Twin Terror
  3. Mommy Stardust @ All That Glitters About Vincent
  4. Noelle @ Our 3 Js
  5. Angelcow @ Obasan & Ajuma

Best wishes.

爱你变成害你

到育婴网站去,看到一个年轻的妈妈在询问大家的意见:她的宝贝儿子快一岁了。一岁生日时想带出外他庆祝。动物园?不行,她老公说细菌太多了。商场里的游乐场又没什么特别,可能孩子会不喜欢。于是问问讨论区的网友有什么意见。

因为大姨妈要来,本女王心情已经受到荷尔蒙的控制,很想找人吵架。看到这样“卫生条件讲第一”的论调,我的火就上来了。当然我就尖酸刻薄地说了一些逆耳的话。好玩的是,还有一群志同道合的朋友(还有老公!)一唱一和。

我们都不是坏人,也不是要把快乐建筑在别人的痛苦上。我们只是一群不愿意害自己孩子的家长,也不忍心看到一个天真活泼的小孩基于卫生理由像母鸡一样地被困在“安全又卫生”笼子里。
为什么有些人就是看不到孩子的免疫力是要在与细菌的抗争中培养起来的?现在竭尽所能帮孩子与细菌隔离,你就是训练他成为将来的药煲子!狼女说得好,干脆买个泡泡袋把孩子装在里面吧!真空隔离,又有护垫,安全又卫生!我原本写道:“这是极好的主意!将来他长大之后,就穿太空装。但是要确保没有人恶作剧地把他头上的玻璃头盔摘下来。”但是在讨论区,还是给对方留一点颜面吧。
孩子是我们国家未来的栋梁。我这么说,有些人还是觉得很遥远,觉得自己的孩子不需要做国家栋梁,只要一辈子做自己的心肝宝贝就可以了。那我告诉你,以后,你的孩子就是保护你的人!搞不好将来发生战争,孩子躲到妈妈后面,说:“妈!森林里有很多细菌,我不要去!机关枪很脏,我没有带消毒药水!”,或者受到一点挫折之后就要生要死,或者是告诉妈妈说:“妈妈,走到停车场的路上太晒了,我不要去做工了。”……你不悲哀吗?你无需悲哀。因为做父母的很快就会回归大地。孩子还有很长的一段人生要自己走。
小时候,听过一个故事:一个孩子偷东西,他的母亲纵容他。后来,他当上了匪徒,最后被绳之以法。临刑前,他叫自己的母亲过来,说有最后的话要跟母亲说。老泪纵横的母亲忙把耳朵凑过去,儿子一口把母亲的耳朵咬下来,说是母亲的纵容害了他。如果我们举一反三、触类旁通,这跟在日常生活中过度保护孩子不是有互通之处吗?

不要以爱的名义害自己的孩子吧!千万不要啊!不要呵,不要!

若有得罪之处,请多多包涵。

Monday, September 17

成长的里程碑 之 讲话

媛媛现在17个月大了。

我做妈妈的,每次看见孩子到达了她成长的另一个里程碑,心里都无限欢欣。

媛媛之前都在学习讲话。她很多音都发得不准,而且发音的准确度并没有太大的进展。很多音也发不出来,她想模仿也模仿不来。

她17个月时,对于发音突然开窍了似的,能够发出的音节突然增多了。她好像找到了运用口腔的技巧,尽管意思还是一知半解,然而很多词语都能够似模似样的模仿着讲。有时听收音机,她也突然模仿DJ的句子的最后两个字发音。大约两个星期前,她开始能够把两、三个词语串起来讲。上个周末,她竟然还能够用中文背1到10!我和老公在惊讶之余,也觉得非常骄傲。骄傲的,不是孩子的“聪明”,而是她来到了成长的一个重要里程碑。我甚至很想握媛媛的手恭喜她学会了一样新的事物!

媛媛语言上的成长,我觉得居功最大的,是我妈妈、我家婆还有老公。我觉得我一直在低估孩子的学习能力。我也没有好好的教她讲话,尽管我整天和她胡说八道。然而,妈妈、家婆和老公,他们却是非常耐心地、有方法地教媛媛。对于这三人,我一直内心都充满感激与感恩。我一直汗颜的,是我是一个教师,但是我却没有很好地教媛媛。我似乎比较忙着她的起居饮食,比较少在意她其他方面的进度。或许,这就是我和老公分工合作的地方吧!

现在孩子很会模仿了。我们做父母的,更加要注意自己的言行举止,因为我们的一举一动,一言一语,都会让孩子看在眼里,成为她学习的榜样。

有些孩子比较早掌握某些技巧,有些需要多一点时间。无论怎样,每个父母看到自己的孩子到达他成长的里程碑时,心里都是有着同样的感动!

孩子,加油!未来的世界是你们的!

Sunday, September 16

Countess Jae

Wanna play hide and seek?

Jae can be the seeker!

课室里的小幼苗!


7个星期前,我们第一次带媛媛到Baby Jumper Gym试用课。昨天,媛媛从Littler Walkers I“毕业”咯!虽然是短短的7堂课,但是我们看到了媛媛的进展。我们看到媛媛学会遵守教室的规则。老师分乐器或学习道具的时候,一定坚持孩子们用他们的方式表达“谢谢”。该还东西的时候,老师也坚持孩子们得归还,并教导他们快乐地和道具说“再见”。我们也看到媛媛对于群体生活有多一点的认识。最明显的,就是她学会了攀网。对于音乐的敏感度也增加了。最近,她都在哼哼唱唱自己的歌,还自己设计一大堆的动作。每次我们问她“要不要去上课?”她都大大声地喊“要!!”看她学习得那么愉快,我们就决定下个学段继续让她上Little Walkers II。一个学段的学费要$350++++,可不便宜!但是见她学习得愉快,我们也觉得钱花得非常值得。我们并不期望媛媛会学会很多,我们只是想让她觉得学习、上课是非常愉快的事,奠定她日后学习的态度。

最后一堂课时,我们请媛媛的老师Poh Cheng跟媛媛合照。还记得第一堂课,媛媛坚持不肯让老师碰她一下。昨天,老师说“hug hug!”,黄靖媛给了老师两个爱的抱抱哦!
10月7日,媛媛又将开课咯!

Friday, September 14

超级明星脸?

This My Heritage site really quite interesting leh.

I just did one Celebrity Look-Alikes widget for Angie. Check it out!~



Also made a morph widget. Can see it here. Hahaha...

Thursday, September 13

Look alike meter!!

Got this meter from mamatang's blog. Interesting!!

Wednesday, September 12

超不爽

今天,我们两夫妻坦诚对对方超不爽的一件事。

老公对老婆的不满
我常常把闹钟调早一点响,因为本auntie有赖床的恶习。每天闹钟响的时候,我都梦游似的去把闹钟按掉(或者用脚去踢老公把闹钟按掉),然后若无其事地继续死睡。大王被闹钟叫醒了之后,就无法再入眠了。他其实很想学我一样继续多睡个两分钟,但是他就是没有办法。每次他在床上干躺了5-10分钟之后,就会火很大地把我叫醒去刷牙。而他,就在我刷牙洗脸的时候继续躺着不动,补偿自己,并且等我叫他起来刷牙才觉得报仇雪恨了。他很气我干嘛把闹钟调到那么早,然后把他当后备闹钟。这是大王对小的不爽的地方。

老婆对老公的不满
每次媛媛晚上(其实是午夜/凌晨)需要喝奶,或哭闹的时候,都是我起床安抚孩子。睡眼惺忪地爬下床去哄孩子、闭着眼睛走到厨房泡奶、半梦半醒地帮孩子换纸尿片…尽管精神还是处在睡眠状态,我的手脚还是非常麻利。因为我要尽快滚回我的床继续睡我的觉。但是,10次当中有10次,我要回到床上时火就会很大。因为某人故意滚到我的位子去睡,还胆大包天地抱着我的抱枕!我不客气地把某人推回属于他的地盘,狠狠地把抱枕抽回来,极不爽地躺在被某人的体温弄热了的床褥上,然后找周公抱怨。不需要起来做工还敢敢霸占需要起来做工的人的东西和地盘!真是佛都有火!这是本女王对某人不爽的地方。

人家说饥饿的人是火气很大的人。嘿嘿,睡眠不足的人,火气更大!

Tuesday, September 11

"One Word/Sentence" Tag

Alrighty.

Here's the second tag that I've got, and learning from a previous lesson, do your tags quickly so you'd still have people left to pass the tag to when you're done.

This one is directed to me by Idy, and it comes without any specific instructions but simply a series of questions that, judging from the tag title, the taggee is required to provide short, one-word or one-sentence types of answers.

That's straight forward enough. So, here we go.

*****************************************

Where is your cell phone? Quietly resting on my shelf, hoping fervently that there'd be no calls from my boss tonight.

Relationship? Traded my girlfriend for a wife 9 years ago.

Your hair? No need to go to Beijing 101, yet.

Work? Not if I can help it.

Your sister? As far as I know my brother has no intention to go for sex change.

Your favorite thing? Toto jackpot winning ticket.

Your dream last night? Getting favourite thing above.

Your favorite drink? Jasmine honey drink.

Your dream car? One that is not accident prone.

The room you’re in? Study.

Your shoes? Sized US10.

Your fears? They lead to anger which leads to hate which leads suffering and eventually to the dark side.

What do you want to be in 10 years? A 45 year-old guy.

Who did you hang out with this weekend? If you mean last weekend then that'd be my two girls.

What are you not good at? Where to start on this one...

Muffin? Yes, I'd have one please.

One of your wish list items? See favourite thing above.

Where you grew up? Singapore, where I'm still growing...sideways, not up.

Last thing you did? Havn't done that yet, but I imagine would be lying in coffin.

What are you wearing? T-shirt and pyjamas pants.

What aren’t you wearing? Makeup.

Your pet? Very dead.

Your computer? DELL Inspiron 640m.

Your life? Is like a game of Kinigu - random chance, making and calling bluffs, plus a large dose of friendship.

Your mood? Moody.

Missing? See favourite thing above.

What are you thinking about right now? The answer to this question.

Your car? Lao Chio.

Your kitchen? It's not mine but my wife's.

Your summer? I get it for 12 months a year.

Your favorite color? Home Team Blue.

Last time you laughed? No, I intend to laugh some more in the future.

Last time you cried? I'm sure there'd be more to cry about too.

School? 21 years' worth.

Love? Yes, I am in it.

*****************************************

Done. Yay. Now, you shall be it -

  1. stardust
  2. chinmama

"My Birthdate in History" Tag

Such are the nature of things - when they don't arrive, you can wait till the cows come home and they won't be here; when they do come (things, not cows), they do so in waves.

They've got sayings for this probability-defying phenomenon, for both good things and bad.

好事成双

祸不单行

Anyways, it has been a pretty long time since we last received a tag. And then it happened. I got tagged. Two times. By two bloggers. In one night.

The first came from Mama Tang at TangSanctuary. Since this is the easier one, I'd start with it before proceeding to the one from Idy at Twin Terror.

Ok, tag rules:

  1. Go to Wikipedia.
  2. Type in your birthday and search your birthdate : February 4.
  3. From the results, list down 3 events, 2 births and 1 holiday.
****************************************************
3 Historical Events That Occured on Feb 4

  1. 1789 - George Washington is unanimously elected to be the first President of the United States by the U.S. Electoral College.
  2. 1792 - George Washington is unanimously elected to a second term as President of the United States by the U.S. Electoral College.
  3. 1976 - In Guatemala and Honduras an earthquake kills more than 22,000.

2 Births on Feb 4

  1. 1940 - George Romero, American director, screenwriter and producer
  2. 1953 - Kitaro, Japanese composer

1 Holiday on Feb 4

  1. Independence Day in Sri Lanka (1948).
****************************************************

Ok, I'd like to send this tag over to:
  1. Angelcow and Happypig at Obasan & Ajuma
  2. Idy at Twin Terror
  3. Joyce at The Chiah Family

Monday, September 10

洗刷刷



After witnessing other BayB toddlers being instilled with the good habit of helping clean up the house, mommy suddenly realised that she had better start coaching our girl in the art of homemaking too. Gotta start the training young, she said, lest our girl ends up having difficulties in getting married as a result of losing out to the competition. Whoever said being a 贤妻 is gonna be easy? 妈妈真是用心良苦啊...

Sunday, September 9

Ariel and 海龙王 at the Chinese Gardens

The is our first visit to the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations even that has become an annual affair hosted by the Chinese Gardens. Each year, there'd be specially designed lanterns being put up all over the otherwise quite mundane park, to attract locals and tourists alike to bask in the festive mood while enjoying the spectacular sights and sounds.

This year, the organisers ran a theme of magical oceans. The Chinese Garden was transformed into a mythical aquatic home of enchanted sea creatures. There were penguins, sharks, sea lions, mermaids, octopus, dolphins, polar bears (?) and lots and lots of very colorful fishes. There was even 海龙王 and his hosts of guards welcoming us at his 12 metre tall Crystal Palace, near the park entrance.

The lantern display event started on 5th of Sep and would run till the 30th. We chose to go yesterday cos we learnt that there would be fireworks on Saturdays. Alas, our batteries (and patience) ran out way before the time hit 10pm, which was when the pyrotechnics show would commence. Nevertheless, Jae appeared to be quite fascinated with the vibrant lanterns, the animated displays and the upbeat music. Out of sheer coincidence, we even bumped into 3 families from the BayB Forum~! Thought that to be quite amazing considering the very huge crowd that was there last night.

After spending just over 2 hours at the Chinese Garden, we dragged our sweaty, tired bodies and a sleepy and quite cranky baby back to home sweet home...

Saturday, September 8

喜相逢

今天带媛媛到裕华园去看灯饰。之前在baby forum里就有好些网络妈咪说可能今晚也会到裕华园去,但是大家的时间都不能确定,所以也没有一起约时间见面。我在往裕华园的路上就想:“人海茫茫的,到底相遇的机率是多少呢?”

结果,我们一到裕华园不久,就遇见Joyce和她美丽的小公主佳颖,走到一半,竟然遇见只见过照片没见过真人的Grace和她的宝宝Megan。然后,就在一棵大树下、一只嘴巴开关开关个不停的猛龙前,见到Idy一家人。在人山人海的裕华园里有4个网络家庭碰面了!天呀,买马票都没那么准吧?和一个网络妈妈见面已经很了不起了。我们竟然碰到3个!

这也太神奇了吧!如果我们没有缘分,或者不认识对方,或者我们到不一样的forum去,就会彼此擦肩而过。然而,因为我们都上网到同一个forum去,从虚拟的朋友变成真实的交情,然后在同一个傍晚在裕华园里碰面,这种感觉真的很奇妙!

如果,如果我们有时空机,如果,如果可以穿梭到任何一个时空,我们会不会在没有认识彼此之前就已经在某一天某一个场合见面了,或者擦肩而过了呢?光是这样想,就觉得非常有趣了!

随着年龄的增长,对“缘分”这两个字有更深的领悟和体会。 缘分,是不能用机率来算的。

谁说虚拟的世界没有真实的朋友?对于今晚花好月圆的喜相逢,我感恩。


喜相逢之一:Mama Joyce, Baby Cherrlyn

喜相逢之二:Mama Grace, Baby Megan

喜相逢之一:Mama Idy, Baby Ilis

Tuesday, September 4

A highly efficient teleconversation

Recently, the very friendly and efficient support staff from my workplace has become very fond of calling us on our personal mobile for the most trival matter. That's how they become very efficient.

Just this evening, at 6.10pm, I received a call from them. And this week is school vacation week.

Me: Hello?
Evil lin: Hello? Angie ah?
Me: Yes speaking.
Evil lin: Are you in school now?
Me: (raised voice) Of course not lah! (SIOW!)
E.L: Oh, i thought you are mah. Because that day I rang XXX and he was in school.
Me: (while scratching head trying to understand the logic) What's up?
E.L: There is something that is passed the deadline and you have not submitted.
Me: What's that?
E.L: Please check your email.
Me: Huh? What deadline?
E.L: Please check your email.
Me: What is it regarding?
E.L: Please check your email. You are supposed to reply to either Su or Mrs J.
Me: What???? Are you talking about XXXXXX?
E.L: Yes.
Me: I have submitted. And the content is XXXX.
E.L: When did you submit?
Me: LOOOONNNNGGG AGGGOOOO.
E.L: Is it? Which group are you in charge huh?
Me: XXX.
E.L: Angie Ng huh?... you are in charge of XXX group huh. The content is XXXX huh?
Me: YES!
E.L: Ok i go and check.
Me:(WTF)

And this group of people were just awarded $2500 for outstanding contribution award. *applause*

You win.

Thursday, August 30

爸爸要看881

今天老公有半天的休假。我2点30分放学,5点钟学校有教师节彩排,我需要留下来。中间的空挡,正好可以到学校附近的电影院看3点场的881。多么理想和完美的计划!

但是,我们2点45分抵达电影院门口,却发现3点场的戏竟然售罄!

爸爸要看881,脸上难掩失望的神情。妈妈安慰说没关系,等光碟出来,妈妈买来送给要看881的爸爸看881。

Wednesday, August 29

Clock Goes Tick Tock

What's worse than being sleepy but unable to sleep cos there're loads of work to be done?

That'd be being sleepy but unable to sleep despite there being nothing to be done.

Well, ok...I know that is highly debatable. But really, when the single tasks assigned to you to be carried out for a period of 14 hours is to sit there, to stay awake and to wait for things to happen (while praying that nothing does), you get to become painfully aware just how slowly time crawls.

A second is precisely a second, right? I mean, unless you're diving into the world of Einstein and dabbling with theories on Relativity, Time is a river with a constant flow rate, measured in seconds, minutes and hours.

It is the mind that makes it feel otherwise. It is the heart that makes happy moments zip by and lonely ones pan out in slowmo. Time can be the Yangtze when you're enjoying yourself, and can be reduced to a trickling stream well, on occasions such as the one I'm in now...

Tuesday, August 28

9月假期快到了,万岁!

终于,终于,终于看到曙光了!第三学段终于快熬完了!9月假期终于快到了!我感动得想流泪啊!

“第三学段”是所有老师的恶梦。因为那是非常非常忙碌的一个学段。大家都把上半年没完成的事推到这个学段,并把第四学段的事推上第三学段,腾出多一点时间来给学生做考前复习。而第三学段又有校外部分的校外考试,教师和学生都疲于奔命,与时间赛跑,与周公做拉锯战。

9月假期虽然只有短短的一个星期,而这一个星期,至少有一半的时间要用来改第三学段改不完的作业,一半的时间出考题,剩下的时间备课(一半加一半不是一,因为还是要挤出多一点时间的)。这个假期也不算是什么假期。但是这个假期意义非凡。因为过完了这个星期,就意味着我们的好日子终于快到了。真的有苦尽甘来的感动呀!

我们在教育界就是这样,忙的时候简直会死人。假期的时候才可以安心休息。但是也不是每个老师都可以安心休息。教毕业班的老师要等到学生考完A水准才能放松紧绷的神经。负责2008年迎新会的老师更加是不要幻想有“假期”这回事。苦命咧。

总之,有假期好过没有。不要无病呻吟。老公在我9月假期那周的星期四和星期五请假。我们又可以一家人环岛游啦!

万岁!万岁!万万岁!

忽然很想唱五月天的歌!!

Monday, August 27

牙牙学语翻译机?


市面上有没有这样的一种翻译文件或机器呢?

真希望有这么一台!

因为媛媛处于牙牙学语的阶段。很多时候她除了讲一些有意义的词汇,她也会咦咦呀呀地大发伟论,或叽叽咕咕地自言自语。有时,她也会叽叽歪歪地大发脾气。

我们都很喜欢听她讲的婴儿语。这个时候,只是一个过度期。她一天一天长大,这样的话语就一天一天的减少。但是,我们也很想知道,这个16个月的小冬瓜脑袋里装的是什么?她口里其实要表达的是什么?

很多母亲本身就是翻译员。但是我不是。唉!能当孩子的翻译员,感觉一定很棒吧!只有妈妈听得懂的话!好象是妈妈和孩子之间的暗号,多亲密!

希望有一天我也能够成为孩子的翻译…

Sunday, August 26

安抚小孩的绝招

什么东西,小孩离家出国,不可不备?

奶粉?纸尿片?奶嘴?手巾?湿纸巾?

其实,是贴纸。

贴纸是人类非常伟大的发明。因为它可以让两个已经在高凳上坐了2个小时陪我们吃“不肥”(buffet)的大人,再继续坐下去。很神奇吧?

今天老公和Ah Seng各别跑了6公里和21公里之后,决定晚餐要大快朵颐,补充体力。我这个连50米都没有跑的人当然很高兴,因为可以名正言顺地吃大餐,然后明天又可以和老友投诉体重加重了,但是绝对不是我的错。
                      
好了,言归正传。

我们约了在同乐酒家吃点菜式的自助餐。两个小孩也吃吃喝喝,搞到满地的狼藉。我们已经饱到快昏睡过去了,可是还是打起精神每人点2-3客甜品。(点3客的是我而已)小孩已经闷得快抽筋了。于是,我使出最后的秘密武器--贴纸,往他们脸上、手上贴上去。两个小朋友惊喜不已,互相研究彼此脸上的星星。我们又争取到了10分钟安心安静地吃甜品。

所以,贴纸是离家出国,不可不备的东西。切记!切记!

(媛媛和Seraphine都对自己的最新造型感到十分满意)

The Singapore Bay Run 2007

Ah Seng cajoled me to take part in the Sheares Bridge Run & Army Half Marathon event. For him, the 21km run was a compulsory, annual affair. Being the first time participating in this event, of course I didn't sign up for the Army Half. Not even the 12km. Modestly, I decided to just do the 6km "fun run".

I signed up for the run some two weeks ago, at Yishun SAFRA (the online registration was already closed by then). Registration fee for the 6km run was $12, for non-SAFRA members (HTNS membership didn't count). I was handed a dry-fit Bay Run T-shirt, and a number tag. Not bad leh, I thought, though I have been told previous years' T-shirts were better (Alvin: This year's T-shirt material very thin. And the design very ugly!)
My Singapore Bay Run T-shirt with number tag

To get myself well-rested in preparation for the run, I went to bed earlier than usual last night, at 11:30pm. I set the alarm on my watch to sound at 5.35am. I'm not sure if it was the warm weather, or Jaimie tossing and turning beside me, or the mental pressures due to the deliberateness of my intentions, I found myself totally unable to fall asleep. Eventually, I only managed to doze off at around 2am. So much for good intentions. Darn...

Some three-and-a-half hours later, I got up. Didn't feel quite as rested as I'd hope to be, but wasn't about to change my mind about the run. Ate two bananas that Angie had gotten for me, and headed out.

While I had been told that "there'd be 60,000 people attending this event and there's no way you'd be able to find a parking lot at Marina Square by the time you're there", I still decided to try my luck, having woken up earlier than I needed to be for the 6km run, which was to be flagged off at 8am. True enough, the Marina Square carpark was jammed packed with cars. Even the handicapped lots were occupied, as well as any nooks and corners that drivers could position their cars without blocking other vehicles too much. Just as I was about to give up and try other another carpark further away, I noticed this chap in his car cranking up his engine. Many envious, not-as-lucky drivers drove past me as I reversed into the freshly vacated lot.

Since I was there early, I had an hour or so to while away before commencing my run. Spent most of it at the floating platform area, watching those super fast runners of the 21km run (who started their runs at 5:30am) making their jubilent last hundred metres dash through the finishing line. Noticed that amongst the competitors who came in early past the finishing line, there were quite a number of females, and also veteran runners. Utmost respect is what I have for these people. I sat at the spectator stand of the floating platform, listening to the high-energy tracks like "Eye of the Tiger" that the DJ was playing, and watching the very beautiful sight of sunrise over the horizon. The environment was nothing short of electrifying.

It didn't feel long at all when I realised that the time was 15 minutes prior to flag off time. Together with a large crowd, I made my way from the floating platform to Esplanade Bridge, which was the designated starting point for the 6km run. While waiting on the bridge, we were treated to some fringe performances by some samba percussion group and some costumed chaps on stilts. Defence Minister Mr Teo Chee Hean arrived on the dot, at 8am to officiate the flag off. The crowd let out a cheer and then off we went.

For my run, there wasn't really much that I can be proud of to want to recount over here. It didn't do much good to one's pride when one got overtaken by 小妹妹s and 老伯伯s one too many times. Suffice to say that I'm just happy that I crossed the finishing line on my twos instead of fours.

Will I be there again for next year's run?

If the T-shirt is nicer, perhaps.

Saturday, August 25

CMI

刚才在看《校园Superstar》总决赛的现场直播。两位主持人说还剩下三分半钟的电话投选,呼吁支持者踊跃地拨打投选号码,然后便请出了这比赛打入八强的“非常帅气”的男同学来表演一首合唱歌曲。

过门一播,我就有一点期待。因为发现是五月天的《离开地球表面》。

“丢掉背包 丢外套 丢掉电脑 再丢唠叨 澳澳”

Wah Piang eh!! 我差一点要晕过去!真的是...太。难。听。了!

不是我鸡蛋里挑骨头。我也晓得这些是小朋友,并非什么专业歌手。不过我也的确没有任何过高的要求咧。之前的几首参赛歌曲我觉得都还ok的。不过就是这首八人合唱我真的 cannot take it. 唱得不行,跳得也 cannot make it. 如果 Cedric 在,他肯定会说 "Oh my god. It is too poor!"

当他们唱到“我再也不要 再也不要 委屈自己一秒”,我发现这正是我心中的念头。

于是立刻把电视关掉。

Thursday, August 23

有个性的小孩

今天在排队提款的时候,听到一个中国妈妈用手机和她的孩子对话。

母亲:为什么昨天我跟你说了,今天你又不听话了?
孩子:…
母亲:是,你跟别的不听话的孩子比,就是听话。跟听话的孩子比,就是不听话!
孩子:…
母亲:你别给我喊。
孩子:…
母亲:什么?你说什么?听话的孩子就没个性?…

随后,母亲生气地把电话挂了。

听话的小孩就没个性?这句话真耐人寻味。

Reminiscing

Wasn't feeling that fantastic in the office this morning, so browsed through my Video folder to see what I can find that might possibly lift my spirits somewhat.

Found this. Played it. Instant relief.

This clip is 7 months old now, and in it, 9-month-old Jaimie was barely able to stand up unsupported. Aiyo...time really flies and babies really grow up very quickly.

5 years down the road, when I'm having one of my blue days, I'm sure this little clip will still do the trick it did today.

Tuesday, August 21

追寻自己的梦想

你的梦想是什么?

我小时候有很多梦想。我想当记者,我想做空中服务员,我想当导游,我想在银行工作,我想当警察,我想嫁入豪门,我想当作家,我想当广播员,我想去狂野,我想出国读书,我想要环球旅行…

但是,每次面临人生的抉择,我就变成保守派,走最安全的路、跨最安稳的桥。

我对目前安定安静的生活感到非常满意。只是,当你听说有人比自己有勇气跨出那一步,心里总是羡慕得不得了,然后不禁会幻想,当年如果我的抉择不是这样,我现在会是一个什么样的人呢?我会有怎么样的一个人生呢?

今天和Clement谈起Nic的抉择,我们都为他高兴,但是,与此同时,又不禁要问自己,我们有这样的勇气和毅力去追寻梦想吗?

有的。我们的梦想是拥有一个安定安静的生活。我们的勇气是放弃追寻虚幻世界中的梦想。

是阿Q吗?有一点点,但是不尽然。

正如林志炫在给杨培安歌唱技巧的指导时说:“唱歌,要放很容易;要收,很难。”

生活也一样。我们知足常乐。

All The Best, Nicky!

Nic just informed me over sms that he has tendered in his resignation.

Nic: Have you heard who is the latest to resign?!
Me: No. Pray tell.
Nic: Head Ops 3rd Div!
Me: Zoon boh? Did you really? Let's lunch later.

So far, besides his immediate boss, Nic said I'm the only one whom he has told of his pending exit. He asked that I act surprise when I hear the news subsequently from the grapevine. I assured him that my acting skills surely are better than those of 黄俊雄 aka Elvin Ng of Mediacorp.

While this isn't exactly 'shocking' news in the sense that I've known that Nic has been 'looking around' for a long time already, I have to say that I'm still pretty shaken up now that it has finally happened for real. This is someone who has joined the organisation together with me 11 years ago. We went through the same 9-month basic training, worked in the same department, trained for IPPT together, griped about the same bosses, fantasised about possible entrepeunistic ventures, discussed movies and comics and PS2 games, queued up at Kinokuniya to get Neil Gaiman's autograph....Heck, this is the chap I'd turn to whenever work gets too tough and I just want to let out one of those "Aiyah, 我不干了!Maybe I'd quit lah!" cries, and can be counted on to sing the same tune with me. I think he knows deep down that despite all the big talk, what I'm looking for is just an avenue to vent my frustrations, nothing more. At my end, I guess I've always naively hoped that Nic is like me.

Well, I guess not.

For Nic, I feel genuine happiness, for his finally being able to step out of the 'salary trap' that keeps most people, like me, from leaving the organisation. For Nic, I have great admiration, for his courage and determination to pursue his dreams. For Nic, I am deeply grateful for his friendship and camaraderie over the past decade, and for his listening ear.

And now, what's left is for me to offer my sincere handshake and congratulations to Nic when I meet him for lunch later. Our 11 of colleagueship is about to end.

For this, I do feel a certain tinge of sadness.

Monday, August 20

The Return of the Lao Chio

After spending the past four days in the workshop, our Nissan Lao Chio is back on the roads! Was originally told that the repairs may take 5 working days i.e. 7 calender days, so was real glad I didn't have to wait that long.

Absence makes the heart grow fonder. This is no less valid for cars than it is for people.

As I drove the car out from the workshop, I absolutely relished :

  1. Not having to dig out my keys to open the door (a real hassle especially during those times when I carry Jae in my arms)
  2. That I was greeted with a soft purr when I cranked the ignition rather than the thunderous roar of that purple Sunny
  3. The smooth acceleration of the CVT engine rather than the jerky automatic transmission
  4. Not having to gaze in amazement at how rapidly the fuel meter dips during drives

I didn't realise until just now how much I appreciate my Lao Chio. And I silently made a vow never to buy a Nissan Sunny. Ever.

Oh, and my Lao Chio smells so much better too!

2nd Visit to the Airport

Brought Jaimie to the Changi Airport yesterday afternoon. This was her second visit to the airport, the first was earlier this month. We revisted the place 'cos ostensibly, Jae appeared to like viewing the aeroplanes. The other reason which really cemented our decision to go despite the relatively long distance had to do with our stomach - both Angie and I wanted to eat the Popeye's fried chicken meal at T1. Yummy~!

This time round, we managed to get onboard the airport skytrain. Jaimie showed no particular interest nor disinterest during the short journey between T1 and T2. While trotting along at T2, we came across one of those luggage weighing scales. You know, those large, stainless steel machines that passengers can use to see if their luggage items can meet the weight requirements or if they have to pay for excess baggage. Angie suddenly stopped and asked our little girl to stand up onto the scale.

Me: Eh, 不要啦。
Angie: 没关系啦!来,媛媛。站上来。

I got a bit paiseh so geh-geh walk on slightly ahead first. At the same time, I couldn't resist looking, nor mask my curiosity over this little delinquent act that my two girls were partaking in. The digital scale fluctuated from 10.0kg to 10.1kg when initially Jae managed to stand stationary on the platform. Then the figures went erratically up and down when our little dancing queen decided to perform tap dancing on the weighing machine. Aiyo...We quickly dragged her down before we kenna orr-gong for damaging public property.

Sunday, August 19

Sudoku, anyone?

I totally love this game and I have completed 2 books of Sudoku. However, there is no way I can solve any Sudoku that says "Black Belt" or "Extremely difficult".

Sigh.

It seems like this is not a practice-makes-perfect case. More skills and technics are needed. I need a shi-fu.

Anyone?

Thursday, August 16

Kissed!

Our ill-fated car has been 'kissed' by other vehicles from (1) the front, (2) the rear and (3) the left. Didn't have any problems of this nature with my previous cars, so it beats me why it is that other automobiles have such a high affinity to this particular poor Nissan Latio?

The latest incident happened just this morning, during the really short trip from our residence to MIL's, which is located just a few blocks away on the same street. We were turning from the main road into the access road for the flat clusters, there was this Toyota minibus ahead of us. Angie remarked that the bus ferried students from some special school, probably on its way to pick up more students. Once into the access road, that minibus veered left into a road pocket which is sort of a drop off point, presumably the pickup area. Naturally, I proceeded ahead. That was when it happened. For reasons unknown, the minibus didn't stop. It went ahead and swerved back onto the access road just as our car was passing by. I blasted my horn but it was too late. There was a heart-wrenching screech as the front of the minibus impacted onto the front passenger side of my car, just a wee bit ahead of where Angie was seated, with little Jaimie on her lap.

My heart sank. First thing that flashed across my mind was "Why so sway huh?? This is the third time in the one-and-a-half-years that this car has been on the road that others have slammed into it. I took a deep breath, opened the door and got out, expecting to find an apologetic driver, exchange some particulars and then be each on our ways.

Boy was I wrong.

He was the one to speak first. A slim, tanned man in his fifties, the first thing out of his old stinky mouth was:

"Eh, 我要停在这边then你这样驾过来..."

That was it. Mr Hyde was standing there in the place of Dr Jackell. I didn't even have time to take another breath before I heard myself blasting out:

"喂!!你这是什么意思!?你敢他妈的恶人先告状!?"

I think he didn't expect that kinda outburst from me, so for a moment he appeared a little stunned. Then he promptly recomposed himself and retorted:

"喂!你说什么他妈的?!你这种读书人怎么可以骂粗话?!我是没有受教育的。你戴眼镜的还讲什么他妈的?!" (Wah like dat oso can ah??)

And the dispute went on and on, revolving on one end around how the party obviously in the wrong could still point the finger at the innocent victim, and how a bespectacled "读书人" can utter profanity on the other. It was a frakking ugly scene, attracting its fair share of busybody onlookers.

Anyhows, our vehicles were blocking incoming traffic, so just when the argument proceeded to the point where I was demanding that he show me his driver's liscence or NRIC, which he was refusing to do ("不用IC的啦! 这个是公司车来的!"), a man in his thirties appeared, presumably one of the drivers that was blocked by us.

"I think you all don't need to argue further. Just exchange your drivers' liscence so you all can file reports."

I turned and glanced triumphantly at the minibus driver, while shoving my NRIC into his face. With a third party now speaking up against him, he has no choice but to hand over his ID card. Angie helped me take down the particulars.

It was only then that I became sufficiently collected to realise that my MIL had also arrived at the scene, and was carrying Jaimie in her arms. The little one appeared calm and was just gazing intently at the commotion. I guess she must be thinking why was it that Papa, who had always told her "Not so loud. Softer, ok?", was then shouting to another uncle so bloody loudly.

*Sigh* Yes, I totally lost my cool. My bad.

And it was even later, when we departed from the scene, that I calmed down even further and realised that despite the unfortunate turn of events, the saving grace was that nobody was hurt physically. The students onboard the minibus were fine, and so were my girls. The slow speeds of the vehicles helped prevent the consequence of this accident from being something worse. Much, much worse. I shudder just to think of what could have happened if the impact had been stronger.

For that alone, I shall remain forever grateful to my lucky stars.

Oh, I am now driving a courtesy car from the workshop. It's a purplish (yeesh) Nissan Sunny. What is the car plate number, you ask? Well, its the same number as the 头奖 for this coming weekend's 4D, hahaha!

大难不死,必有后福。Right?

Tuesday, August 14

二重唱

一直都很喜欢二重唱的组合, 二重唱的歌曲。

从卡带时期的“知己二重唱”,“芝麻龙眼”,到后来有CD的“凡人二重唱”,“南方二重唱”, 到近期的“Soler”,我都好欣赏,好喜欢。两把和谐的声音,重叠,融合成一体,分不清谁在唱主旋律,谁在唱和声。

前两个月“锦绣二重唱”推出了她们首张新歌+精选集,我一直有在留意,但却似乎没在唱片行看到。不久前终于在 Sembawang Music Centre 找到,却发现已经是重版的CD了。之前那个有透明而印有Walkie Talkie 卡通肖像的 CD sleeve 的限量首版已经卖完了。哎呀,怎么会这样...我还是有点不甘心,继续等了好几个星期,看看会不会 lucky 给我碰上一间刚巧还存有那最后一张首版CD的唱片行。

Lucky 个屁。

今天终于按耐不住,回到 Sembawang Music Centre 买了重版的CD。Ok 啦,只是包装差了些罢了,内容没差啦。只能这样安慰自己啰。

Disc 1 的第一首是首新歌,潘协庆写的。喜欢它轻松的旋律,听了很舒服。在这给大家介绍一下...锦绣二重唱 aka Walkie Talkie 的“爱到夏天”。




爱到夏天

冬天把热咖啡冷了两遍
我就开始想念春天
春天的阳光有点不够强烈
期待夏天海岸线

我们是不交界的两天 今天和明天
如过注定落在两季之间
距离更远即使站在面对面 还那么明显

能不能 我们爱到夏天阳光睁开眼
谁都不要变把孤单溶解
我们的从前黏成一片
少了个人时间爱却多一天

好想爱到夏天 阳光海岸线
你微笑出现(幸福会出现)
怎么让你牵 能带爱情到永远
我慌张的跟在你后面
你的手曾经那么的安全
怕一瞬间 爱在风中染成秋天

和你的每一天
来不及升温到今年夏天
我把心推开 却变寂寞秋天
我们的爱差一个明天

撕裂

最近常有被撕裂开来的感觉。

学校的工作堆积如山。尽管我坚持回家后晚上不要再动学校的东西了,但是心头的压力却没有办法挪开。星期天的时候,想起还有一叠的作文还没有改。如果再不改,这个星期三又有排山倒海而来的模拟考试卷子要批。我内疚极了,也很着急。本想趁媛媛睡午觉时,赶快把作业清一些。但是又想起地板已经一个星期没有扫了(别说抹地了!),洗衣机里的脏衣服也快溢出来了,于是想赶快把家务做完才改卷子吧。谁知道,媛媛才睡那么一下子就起身了。我立刻觉得火很大,也很着急,然后对媛媛发脾气。不知道为什么,当时觉得很想哭。后来,老公帮我看媛媛,我才能够改半班作文。后来我说带媛媛到IMM的游乐场去,由她爸爸陪她玩,她妈妈继续坐在树荫下拼死拼活地改作文。后来我一直做到晚上11点,才把3班作文清掉。剩下1班的等星期一再把它们杀掉。

我想,我的处境大概是和很多职业母亲一样的吧。家庭、工作、个人时间…一直在找一个平衡点。于是,我见缝插针。有时间赶快看一点光碟;有个空挡赶快做点家务;有大便的时候赶快蹲久一点看一些书。我拼命地拼命地和时间赛跑,要好好地利用每一分钟。然而,很多时候,都觉得很喘,觉得自己被撕裂开来。有时,很想拍拍桌子对老板说:“老娘不干了!”但是,真的要辞职在家吗?老实说,我没有那种勇气。我觉得当全职妈妈的人非常勇敢,也非常伟大。我完全向全职妈妈敬礼。但是我做不到。我不甘心放弃自己喜欢的工作。我不甘心在经济上不能完全独立。我不甘心当家庭主妇。但是,繁重的工作加上家里的事情加上孩子的事情有时也真让我喘不过气。我常常都在想,如果我是孙悟空那该多好。变出4个自己,一个继续为教育献身,一个做贤妻,一个做良母,一个做家务。

虽然如此,但是我还是感恩自己还有学校假期,可以做回自己。

就是10个星期一次的学校假期,继续让我撑着,跑人生中一轮又一轮的马拉松。

Monday, August 13

Of Blogging and Parenting

I'm not sure what's this emotion I am feeling after reading Noelle's post and the comments that appeared on her blog that came in response to that particular entry. Skepticism? Incredulity? It's a mixed sort of feeling that something isn't quite right, with a bit of anger thrown in when I put myself in her shoes.

Ok, maybe I am over-reacting here, but this happens to be something I feel quite strongly about. A large part of this blog is dedicated to logging in events that happen to me and my family, including thoughts, expressions and beliefs on parenting issues. If you are reading this, then you might be interested to note my take on blogging and parenting and in extension, my take on you should you choose to leave comments here regarding these two topics.

Don't Tell Me What I Can or Cannot Write
I certainly welcome and appreciate sincere comments and feedback, but that doesn't mean you get to tell me which are the stuff I can write about and which are the ones I should keep private. I own this blog (ok, jointly with my co-author), so I damn well can write anything and everything I feel like and post 'em up here, without having to moderate my entries to cater to what I think other people like or dislike to read.

Freedom to Comment
For many people, blogging is not necessarily a private thing. The fact that we set up blogs and launch our thoughts into cyberspace implies that we want them to be shared with others. Sure, blogs can be configured to limit the extents to which comments can be posted. I've chosen not to set any. Why should I? Spammers aside, I believe that everyone is entitled to his opinion and if someone feels differently about something I blog about, he ought to have the liberty to express it here. I would be happy to hear any views, supportive or otherwise. BUT, that doesn't mean you get to tell me which are the stuff I can write about and which are the ones I should keep private.

Mister Anon
While I am all for freedom in commenting, I hold a certain prejudice against people who post anonymously. I mean, if you don't even have the moral courage to put a name (an alias, even) to your convictions, why should anyone even give the slightest damn to what it is you're saying?

My Kid, My Responsibility
I believe that parenting is something that is very personal and subjective and that there is no such thing as "the right way of parenting", only preferred way(s). And preferrence is absolutely the prerogative of the parent, just as responsibility of brining up the child is. You make a decision to become a parent, you jolly well make sure you live by that comittment. Barring extreme (i.e. legal) restrictions, how you do that is wholly your business. No two kids are alike and to tell others to conform to any set of prescribed or recommended parenting guidelines is extremely obnoxious and presumptious. Try it on me and you'd see how I ask you to fly uncle charlie's kite yourself. Just as you don't get to tell me what not to write in my blog, you do not get to tell me how not to bring up my child.

Carrots & Sticks
I'm a strong believer that everything, including parenting should have the yins and the yangs. Too strict and you might end up with an unhappy, rebellious child. Too lax and you'd get a spoilt kid. To achieve the balance in parenting, however, is certainly no simple feat. You've got to constantly calibrate your response according to your continual assessment of the child's temperament as well as the specific situation and environment, on a case by case basis. While positive reinforcement is something we consciously practice with Jaimie, there're ocassions where we'd wield the stick rather than award the carrot. Even when dishing out punitive actions, there is also an entire array of possibilities ranging from verbal lectures to physical punishment. Depending on the severity of the situation, Jaimie gets it from us at both ends of the spectrum, plus everything in between.


To Noe, I wish to say that you've all the right in the world to exercise blogging freedom, just as you do for putting in your best in raising your 3 kids. Blogging and parenting are two things that we blogging parents shouldn't have to accept any crap from others.

Thursday, August 9

The Sand, The Sun & The Sea

Today is National Day. Our little Red Dot turns 42 years old on this very day. Happy birthday, Singapore.

When I checked met services forecast yesterday, it reported today's weather to be "showers in the morning". Oh-oh, I thought. The Sentosa gathering that we've had penned in our diaries for so long is finally round the corner, but may suffer the same fate as the earlier Botanic Gardens gathering.

Fate, as it turned out, decided to let us off the hook this time round. Despite the fact that it rained cats and dogs early in the morning around 7am, the heavens turned off the tap at 8 o'clock. By the time we reached Palawan Beach at 9.30am, the weather was just perfect. The sun was out, but the climate remained cool and comfortable.

Quite a number of the "usual suspects" from BayB forum were there - ezrababy, JaPhotos, garfield55, JoyceLong, meekfreek, jong, stardust_sq, jeannchua, chin mama, SS1, and us. Logistically, everyone turned up well prepared - food, tidbits, mats, beach toys, and most importantly diaper change. We had a smashing time, took lotsa photos, and finally said byebye at around noon, by which time many of the tiny tots have started to display "Battery Low" warning indicators.

Jaimie enjoyed herself very much today, which incidentally was her first visit to a beach. We're glad she loves the sea, particularly the waves lapping up onto her as she sat on sandy shores. We'd most certainly be back to this place. Soon.

Mommies and babies from the April 06 Babies community

Jaimie showing her excitement over her maiden trip to a beach (Her previous with sand had been at playgrounds)

Jaimie's first ever dip into the sea

It's all about touch and feel. Even though Jaimie has been to sandy playgrounds and to a wave pool, nothing beats experiencing the real stuffs.

The Beach Gals - Cherrlyn, Jodie and Jaimie

Jae ah...Papa wants to shoot a photo of little Cherrlyn mei-mei, you also must come and 抢镜头!

My two sweethearts

It is certainly not everyday that this little girl would keep her hat on for anything more than a couple of seconds. Since she was so obliging today, better snap a few more shots.

Happy trio. Thanks, Vivian for snapping this for us.

More pics here.

Sunday, August 5

Jaemish

Just like how the highly intelligent and very beautiful Elves have their unique Elven tongue, little Jaimie has also crafted her very own communicative language. Not quite as elegant as Elvish, but hey, she developed, practiced and is now adapt at both the spoken as well as the non-verbal lingua franca....

Here's Jaimie's head-shaking, hand-waving combo move. Not a particularly efficient way of conveying a simple "No".


Only Jaimie understands Jaemish...