My small family 私の家族

My chic baby @ 31 months old

2012-02-13T18:17:00.001+08:00

Weekend fun

2012-02-13T13:03:00.001+08:00

The whole family woke up early to have brunch at Dempsey. And Kerri was quite a pleased baby throughout.

Hopped to Food for Thought when we realized our usual hunt was closed. Brought the kids to the playground and walked around Botanic Garden for a bit. The weather was a killer.

We will be bringing them to Jacob's garden next weekend. Finally Kerri will get to wear the hands me down swimsuit from Keira. Else I do not think she will have any chance apart from playing in the portable swimming pool in the backyard during summer.

Some photos from the weekend.

All about napping

2012-02-07T12:47:00.001+08:00

Lately I am having struggles putting the girls to nap at the same time.

Kerri used to do 2 naps in a day then to 1 but 3 weeks ago, she goes back to 2 naps.

When she was having 1 nap a day, she will usually sleep with Jie Jie at around 12 to 1pm and then nap for 2 to 3 hours. But now she's back to 2 naps. I am having a difficult time.

Kerri needs to nap at 10.30am then for 2 hours. By the time she wakes up, it's Keira's turn. But I am not able to put her to bed as Kerri will be shouting for my attention all the time when I leave her with the books and toys.

It's okay when the hubby is around. That makes my life easier but if he's not, I can anticipate a chaotic household.

By the 12th month, usually babies need just a nap in the day. Or at least a short nap in the morning follow by a long one in the afternoon. But for Kerri, it seems like the opposite.

The napping schedule is kind of turning me into a control freak. They need to be on a schedule. And I will feel terrible if their naps have been disrupted badly.

For Keira, it's not much of a problem with sleep. She will nap after book reading and in the night, she will say she's tired and wants to sleep. Usually around 9 to 9.30pm. But not getting the recommended 11 hrs still. Only at most 9 hrs.

BUT she needs me to be around to put her to sleep. Even at my mum's place now occasionally when she sleep over, she will cry for me.

Why why? All seems to be good before turns out to jeopardize now. I'm so dreading the move to the states now. How to make the children feel secure and yet not be so clingy to me?

Something must be wrong somewhere. Hubby said I give in too much. Keira is rather spoilt now. Yes she is indeed. The tiredness after returning home from a busy day really put me off to try to do something to it.

I just feel like I'm struggling barely making it. If not for our mums' help, I don't think there will be me today. Seriously.

#febphotoaday 6: dinner

2012-02-06T22:59:00.001+08:00

Feb: a photo a day

2012-02-06T18:24:00.001+08:00

I know I am a bit late but still it looks fun.

Role playing

2012-02-06T12:40:00.001+08:00

It's hard to be taking up several roles all at one time.

Just last Thursday I had dinner at my ex-president's house when hubby called and said Keira is missing you a lot and she's sobbing at one corner in the hall.

And then half an hour later I was swift home by the hubby. Argh.... I hardly socialize now or should I said rarely. But I was glad that we made home earlier as Kerri was still feeling not too good from the fever.

And 2 hours after the dinner, I was home in my nighties, put Kerri to sleep and reading bedtime stories to Keira.

But it all ended well eventually.

Tonight we will be having another dinner with all counterparts from 4 different countries and I hope I can make it home earlier to tuck them to sleep in time.

Soon soon... I will have a role lesser to play. The worker bee. And I really want to focus all my attention to catch up with their developments and learning progress and of course the bonding time once again.

The other day during a dinner with my cousins, my pre-schooler educator cousin monitored about my behavior with Keira. And that leave a deep impression on me. Yes. I am not consistent enough.

Sometimes for the convenience sake and the peace, I do give in. Perhaps more often that it should be.

I want to change this. Real bad. The line between being the best friend to my children and a discipline figure is quite thin.

Well at least we can getting somewhere. It's never too late to be sorry. Right?

Kiddos @ 31 & 12 months old

2012-02-06T00:47:00.001+08:00

Keira amazed me with singing Chinese lullabies over the weekend.

She said 放屁 instead of fart when someone passes gas.

She is so into books lately that she will be extremely happy even if I just brought along one of her books in the car to our dinner.

She will pretend she know how to read and read it on her own. She will make up the stories as it goes as she can't remember the whole story most of the time.

Peppa pig is her latest favorite character. We were having Macdonald's when she wanted to have a piece of meat from the hubby's palate. Hubby said it's spicy as he had added pepper and then she goes 'oh pepper uh. Peppa pig uh'.

Come Kerri. She had a fever that refused to go away for almost 5 days. And on Saturday, there were red spots and bumps on her body and face. Both our mothers said it's due to the body passing toxic from the fever that cause it and it's no big deal. Thankfully it was gone by the following day.

Her bottom 2 more pearlies have sprouted out. Maybe they are the cause of the fever.

She has been so fidgety that it's almost impossible to keep her still for 10 minutes. She want to walk but she can't even stand properly.

She fought with the Jie Jie several times over the week when she just got slightly better. She regained her energy. You should have see her listless self when she's down with the fever. It hurts to see her like that.

And slowly our family is on the road to recovery. I really need that but I wonder how long it can last.

February loot

2012-02-06T00:03:00.001+08:00

1. Bought a pair of skinny jeans from Pull n Bear, a spotty cardigan from H&M. Courtesy of the hubby. The 2 piece look great together with the UGG boots.

2. Got a new pair of glasses from Evisu in tortoise shell and the best part is its in Asian fit.

Reads - Vivi mag

2012-01-27T21:16:00.001+08:00

I always come across this magazine in bookstores in SG or in Seattle, WA, Taiwan or HK. But I never ever pay attention to it because they are in Japanese until... I stumbled across the Feb issue in Popular bookshop that I realized they published in Chinese too.

Ok reading a Chinese magazine is definitely not my forte especially fashion magazine. It's hard to read the very fine prints and it is quite tiring on the eyes too. Nevertheless, the stuffs in there are just beautiful.

I am really a latecomer to discover this magazine I think. And I feel I'm kind of overage to read but I'm just in love with the fashion in that magazine.

Our dailies

2012-01-26T12:53:00.001+08:00

My mum called during lunch. She said Kerri was using her tummy to crawl around. Usually she uses her hands to drag her body all over. Or either using her bum and sweep around the house. I have weird kids.

First day of potty training on Keira. She was given a sticker for sitting on the potty and I gave her a nice notebook with a new set of marker pens. Then she said 'hurray mummy. I love you. Thank you!' Such a sweet talker. Shortly after, she successfully pee-ed. I can't remember the last time she is willing to do that.

I was washing my face when she's on the potty and she said 'mummy, stop playing with the water. You splashed on me.' The way kids talk now. .

I love my children.

Chinese new year 2012

2012-01-25T12:34:00.001+08:00

All dressed up.

Toilet training

2012-01-24T23:26:00.001+08:00

It's TOUGH! It has been weeks but things don't get any better but worse. She don't even want to step into the bathroom and sit on the potty.

I wonder what traumatic experience she had encountered in school that makes her change so sudden.

I've borrowed some books on potty training and hopefully we can see some progress.

I have come up with a reward chart too with her favorite cartoon character of the moment, Peppa Pig. I stuck it on the cabinet door beside her potty.

Let's see how it turns out.

Day 2 of CNY

2012-01-24T19:29:00.001+08:00

It's so tiring to be out with the two girls for house visits! My arms are literally aching from the carrying.

Today is much better as we headed off to 5th aunt's place for gathering. Popo seems to be very glad to see all of us there.

Kerri has been ok except perhaps she is rather tired from all the entertaining.
Eventually when we left the place, she knocked out within few minutes after we placed her in car seat.

Keira was behaving clingy and whiny throughout. Oh man.

It's back to work tomorrow and I am really dreading it.

I see the sun today

2012-01-22T11:16:00.001+08:00

With the girls around, I don't think I ever get to sleep in later than 8am. But surprisingly, we did sleep in till well almost 8. 7.54am to be exact. I was woken up by Kerri's clapping and calling out for me.

Hubby brought mac breakfast back after doing a night of guard duty. The girls and I shared a hot cake set and we polished it off.

It's going to be a great lunar new year this year. And can't wait to take our family portrait if possible for our 1st ever proper CNY for our little family of 4!

Now I just need to go find the tripod stand somewhere if you excuse me.

Recipes for keep.

2012-01-21T15:48:00.002+08:00

It won't be too long before I really need to do cooking for the family everyday. So I decided to try a recipe or two every other weekend and have it jotted down here since yours truly has become rather short memory lately.

Recipe: Minced meat with egg tofu

2012-01-21T12:13:00.002+08:00

Ingredients:
1. Egg tofu
2. Minced meat
3. Garlic
4. Egg

Seasoning:
1. Oyster sauce 1 tsp
2. Ground pepper moderate
3. Light soy sauce 1 tsp
4. Hua diao wine
5. Corn starch
6. Salt and sugar as desired

Steps:
Pan fried the egg tofu. Set aside after both sides are lightly brown.
Stir fry the garlic with the minced meat.
Add water to boil.
Add in seasoning.
Add in corn starch and stir.
Add in egg and stir vigorously.
Finally, add in the pan fried tofu and stir lightly.
Garnish with scallions or red chili slices

Chinatown market

2012-01-20T18:19:00.002+08:00

This must be the 2nd time I have been to this place. And surprisingly, there are quite a lot of shops selling kids imported from Korea/china and most importantly at a very reasonable price.

I was looking for some cheongsams for the girls if we shall be celebrating CNY in the states when I decided perhaps I should get a piece for myself since I have never worn one before.

I bargained from $45 to $30 which I think the uncle is still earning a profitable sum. But well $30 for such a material is already quite worth it.

My babies are no longer babies.

2012-01-18T09:18:00.002+08:00

What a weekend! Part 2

2012-01-16T12:57:00.004+08:00

So after the morning trip, we dropped off the kids at both sides of the parents to attend a concert in the evening. It does indeed feel great to be free from the kids on the weekend.

We took a small nap before getting ourselves ready in the afternoon and I was as excited as like a kid.

I decided it was just the perfect day to carry out my new baby.

Concert was good except for some glitches. We did really enjoyed it. It ended around 11.30pm of which after we headed for supper before going back.

I felt like time has transported us back to 2008 when we just got our place and oh so carefree. Staying up late all weekends and having adventures on the yellow bike. It all lasted for a short 6 months when I found out I was pregnant with Keira.

Well that aside. I really appreciate the quality time that we got to have.

The next day with the kids still not back home yet. We headed off to Chinatown at 8am. Ate breakfast at Tak Po dim sum before I went to do some CNY shopping and got a cheongsam for me and 2 bigger sizes for Keira and Kerri for next year CNY in MH. Hubby on the other hand went to queue for his favorite bak kwa. We supposedly planned to reach home by 12 to clean up the place but the queue was not moving fast enough.

So off I went home to do the cleaning for Kerri's birthday preparation while he continued with his bak kwa purchase and came back around 3pm. I shall blog about the party in a separate post.

What a weekend! Part 1

2012-01-16T10:44:00.002+08:00

I thought I was a supermum over the weekend.

Saturday we were up early do off to Dempsey to have our breakfast before dropping the kids off respectively at both set of parents' place.

The kids had fun at Dempsey and it was such a blessed day with good weather. Couldn't ask for more.

New love

2012-01-11T20:38:00.001+08:00

Wearing new love from NW out to meet up with the MH 'wives club' for dinner.

Sick children in the house

2012-01-09T11:07:00.001+08:00

Fine I know sending a daycare can make a child get sick easily. Well aware of that. But if your child is really sick and have not fully recovered shouldn't they stay at home and rest till they are well.

Perhaps Keira's immune system is pretty weak by itself but I think falling sick is getting too often now. She just got well from the last illness about 3 weeks ago and now it's here again.

We met up our couple friend to pick up some stuff and arranged for a dinner together until we decided Keira is getting way too feverish that we rushed home to feed her medicine and grabbed her birth cert before visiting the doc.

You should have seen how red her face was. Like a tomato practically! And her whole body was HOT. Thankfully by the time we reached the clinic her fever subside a bit but it still hitting at 38.3degree.

Poor girl. She was so sick that she was all feeling weak and only want to cradle in my arms. But once reach the doc's place, she was jumping around and chit chatting yet again.

It was definitely a scare. And this morning Kerri woke up with a running nose as well.

Oh please let them get well before the birthday party or at least CNY. I wont want to spoil their first officially CNY celebration in this way and it will be a few years later before they can do that again.

Virus please shoo!!

New additions to my library

2012-01-09T00:46:00.001+08:00

Cookbooks by Tyler Florence and Harumi

The Girls' wardrobe

2012-01-08T09:25:00.002+08:00

So I couldn't resist getting these for the girls at H&M and Pumpkin Patch when they have some sales going on. Simply adorable.

Bathing time anyone?

2012-01-03T13:06:00.002+08:00

Just simply loves to see her smiles each and everyday. (*^^*)

Spotty, why are you here to find me?

2012-01-03T11:17:00.002+08:00

You know it's time to take your uv protection more seriously when you spots these little ones creeping on you.

Please pardon the skinny hand and greenish veins.

Sigh...

2012-01-03T10:31:00.001+08:00

My friend posted on Facebook.

'Why does heaven take away good people? Is there a lack of angels up there?'

It broke my heart.

RIP Irene

2012-01-02T14:27:00.000+08:00

Right smack in the early morning of the 1st day in 2012. I received a news. A very bad one. The wife had passed away in an accident with the youngest of their 3 kids in critical condition. I couldn't believe it when Hubby informed me of it. Until I read the evening news. It's true.

They are left just with 4 months to return back to SG and this had to happen. I really pray hard for the youngest girl. I hope she can survive through this. And I am sure Irene will be looking after them from above. But it still struck me so sudden.

It is at this time that I feel that BT need to pull through all this above anything. For the sake of the children and we trust you can do it.

Please rest in peace, dear Irene. And you will forever be the most amazing and patient mother I ever came across.

Look back in 2011

2011-12-31T16:31:00.000+08:00

Kerri's arrival in Jan marks the biggest event of the year for our family. Till now, I still couldn't believe how we can be gifted with such a pretty little thing. Having her presence can be quite overwhelmed at times but we are coping with that. She never fails to brighten our day every morning. I love how she gaggles each time Jie Jie did something that amazed her.

Almost 3 months after the birth of Kerri, I decided to join back the workforce and took up the job which I thought will be an ideal one only to realize it's getting nowhere and literally with zero satisfaction at all. I left after 2 months. And at this point, I have already pulled Keira out from the private daycare after a week trial as we just don't think it is suitable for her. And at the end of all these, I thought I have failed. BADLY. With the career going nowhere and wasting the 2 months in the company when I can spend them more useful on Kerri. It just sucks. Being a working mother is really not as easy as I thought it is.

Then came a call from my ex-company asking me to join them back. It couldn't be anymore appropriate. And another surprise came shortly after from the daycare centre which I initially wished to put Keira in but unable to due to no vacancy called up. They mentioned they have a spot for Keira and immediately I jumped on it. See... life is still not that bad after all.

From then, everything just falls in place nicely. My noble mother is taking such great care of Kerri while Keira finally accepted the school just 2 months plus into attending the daycare. I couldn't be more grateful for this planning.

As for the husband, his degree course is coming to an end pretty soon. Knowing how tough it is for the past year for him to struggle with family, work and studies really make me more appreciate him. For the sake of our family and to give us a better life. I am very thankful for him.

So next year we will embark on another different journey, I am sure we will have more to write by then.

And not to forget, a Happy New Year to all of you!

Nicey Friday

2011-12-30T09:52:00.002+08:00

Yesterday was our official last day of work for 2011. And so I have made plan to have my hair done and to holland village for some shopping on my own.

Had breakfast with Keira at the coffee shop before dropping her to the daycare.

Hope it is a good day for all today!

Lunch at Mad Jack

2011-12-28T13:17:00.002+08:00

One more day before our long weekend is here.

Please come sooner. Rainy day makes me sleepy.

Weekly happenings

2011-12-27T06:32:00.002+08:00

1. Had a successful Xmas office party organized by yours truly. It's a joy to see everyone having a good time.

2. Prepared ice cream cone cakes for Keira's daycare Xmas party. Very satisfied with the results.

3. Had the girls' toys all cleaned, sanitized and sorted out.

4. Kerri took her first passport photo session and she looked so cute in it. It was such a struggle to get her to sit still.

5. The big sister on the other hand simply loves to say she's a superhero now. Omg.

6. It's always fight over meals each time to get Keira to eat her stuff.

7. The girls had a fun time opening up their presents on Christmas morning.

8. It was our 5th wedding anniversary. Nothing fanciful.

This time last year...

2011-12-25T11:37:00.001+08:00

We were in Taipei. Temperature was below 20 most of the time and we thought the weather is just perfect though it can get pretty cold in the evening. I felt guilty for spending our favorite holiday away from Keira and left her at my mum's place.

So this year, I decided to have a quiet christmas just our little family alone and I got it. We had a nice meal over beef casserole which I have begin to throw in the oven for almost 4 hours. And it came out PERFECT! I followed this Jamie Oliver's recipe but replaced the sage leaves with bay leaves and left out the parsnips. The meat totally fall apart and it was so soft and tender. I didn't took a photo of it as we were too hungry and also we don't have a nice casserole. Getting a decent casserole is on top of my wish list for 2012.

With the cool weather at this time of the year, everything just feel so right.

And on christmas morning, the 3 of us awaken up with bright eyes. Keira was all smiley and even got excited when I said it's time to open the presents! So off they went to tearing up the presents ruthlessly.

It's happy Boxing day today and wishing everyone happy holidays!

Weekly happenings

2011-12-17T13:59:00.002+08:00

1. Completed a forest of paper Christmas trees for Keira's class n her main teachers for their Xmas party in school.

2. Our house had a new fresh paint coat. It looks so much brighter and spacious than before.

3. Keira was down with fever and flu once more. One too many times these few weeks. Poor kid.

4. It's firmed that Kerri is picking up on her speech at 10 months old. Her main words are bird, no more (Mei you in Chinese), don't want (bu Yao), mum mum (meaning for food), Bao Bao (meaning for carry) and I think some of mama.

4. Clifford the dog is her best friend now. She's always clinging on to his leash and try to walk him around the house in her walker. Just too cute to watch.

5. Completed the birthday banner for
Kerri's Party. It's looking good.

6. Train system has been the talk of the town and the Facebook wall has been bombarded with topics related to that.

7. Keira is into saying I don't know with a tinge of slang in it. I wonder where she learnt it from.

8. The kids fought over a balloon well 2 to be exact and Kerri lost. She looked defeated.

9. Kerri actually took off her pajamas on her own. Almost I mean.

Weekly happenings

2011-12-12T11:12:00.002+08:00

1. My dearest cousin has setup a design firm with his partners. He is finally fulfilling his dream and I am so happy for him. His office is under work in progress. Can't wait to see it.

2. Kerri is starting to point around to tell us what she want or want us to see. And I thought she is trying to pronounce '没有' in Chinese while hand-signing it.

3. Keira is in the stage where she like to ask why this why that. And she loves to say neh neh boo boo so very often.

4. Had settled Kerri's birthday party decor. And I can't wait to start the project.

5. Going for another stay at MBS this month. Yeah!

6. We had a great time over the weekend and time seem to pass so fast!

7. Hubby and I discussed some of our future plans and it's getting exciting.

8. Keira and I had fun making jellies on a very early Sunday morning. And she is so proud of her 'fishes swimming in the water'

9. I think I found a new hobby. Jelly making. I have so much inspirations in making them now.

This evening...

2011-12-05T22:58:00.001+08:00

Mum offered to let Keira stay over at her place because Kerri is still not totally well yet. I guess she wants me to have a better sleep. Mum is always the best.

Tonight is a peaceful night. The weather is cooling and I have completed 3 tasks on my To-Do-List for the month of November. Finally I got to them. I finally do some spring cleaning to my wardrobe though there's still a lot of clothes which I can't bear to throw away. I managed to slowly indulge in opening up my birthday present. Yes the 'C' bag. I termed it as my 3rd baby from now. I got to my ass to work on office xmas party decoration. The kirigami christmas tree. I shall need to start this project as soon as I can.

I think I shall really savor this evening with a bottle of Tense Up to end the night.

Whiny Keira

2011-11-29T10:30:00.001+08:00

Poor Keira had a very high fever in the middle of the night. So high that hubby jumped off the bed to reach for the medicine when Keira leaned against him while sleeping.

Just when Kerri is recovering from her flu, Keira caught some of the bug and this sudden fever adding to her misery.
I felt bad for being so mean and cold to her on Sunday for so misbehaving.

Hope the baby will get well soon. She is really as cranky as she can be. I'm going bonkers...

Kerri's birthday theme!

2011-11-18T10:27:00.001+08:00

Suddenly out of nowhere I have this fabulous idea for her birthday theme in Jan!! And I'm so excited about it.

Because we will be doing house painting in dec. Yes whole house. I would think this would definitely match with the new color in the hall.

Exploding wardrobe

2011-11-15T20:18:00.001+08:00

My little wardrobe is bursting. They are in serious need of 'slimming' down. I felt that I no longer has the capability to squeeze into those skin tight camisoles without the risk of muffin top over spill.

People who knows that I am a mother of two will always exclaimed how fortunate I am but in real fact, I have a flabby tummy like any mummies out there. I don't have the luxury of squeezing into low waist jeans without having to pull the jeans up nicely to hide the bulge when I am trying to sit down. Now I just simply loves wearing dresses. Any kind. I would feel so carefree without the hassle of wearing the muffin top. Screw you. I hope to get rid of you one day some time. You just wait.

So I guess I need to start clearing the wardrobe to welcome new additions soon. Or maybe I just need a bigger wardrobe. How can a lady ever have enough of wardrobe space??

To the hair salon she goes...

2011-11-14T09:31:00.002+08:00

The last time Keira had a haircut was about 9 months back. My mum ordered me to give her one because she had some heat rashes around her neck and chest.

记得最后一次带琦璇剪头发是在9个月前。妈妈吩咐我带她去剪因为她身上长热疹。

And to my horror, the hairstylist did a very bad job and her hair simply looks so terrible. So now 9 months fast forward, we brought her for another haircut. This time to trim it shorter in hope that her hair will grow out thicker.

可是头发简直是被剪坏。9个月后，头发再生了。我们再她去剪多一次。

It's a pleasant surprise that she is willing to sit throughout without any much persuasions. And suddenly she look so grown up to me.

我还满讶异。琦璇尽然没有什么反抗。还能乖乖坐再椅子上。然我觉得她不在是一个婴儿了。

She never fails to amaze me really.

总是让我惊喜连连。

We see the road now

2011-11-11T08:14:00.001+08:00

Making decision alone is hard enough but making decision for the whole family is even harder.

At least we have made up our mind and direction is clearer now.

What matters most is the whole family will be staying together.

It may be silly for my part but I guess it will all be worth it.

Misses...

2011-11-09T11:26:00.001+08:00

I miss those days where I can always work late in the office without any worries to rush back home.

I miss those days where I can go out shopping alone to my heart content.

I miss those days when I can always plan for last min dinner dates with friends after work.

I miss those days when I can laze around during the weekend.

I miss those days when I can coop myself in the bookstore for hours browsing through endless magazines or books.

I miss going to art fairs or exhibitions as and when I am free.

I miss chilling out at That CD shop @ Pacific Plaza going through those music and picking a CD or two to enjoy them at home.

I miss going to nice restaurant all dressed up and having a quiet and good meal with the hubby.

I miss the occasional jogs whenever I can try to squeeze in.

Somehow or rather I am having all these thoughts coming and running in my head right now. Where have they all gone to?

But on the other hand, thinking of the girls back home, really make me feel much better. Just feel like ranting of all a sudden.

Keira at 28 months and Kerri at 9 months

2011-11-03T06:32:00.001+08:00

Keira has been using more new words now. Though 30% I am still trying to understand what she is saying, I can tell she's trying her best to construct her sentences nicely. Even if she seem to be having a difficult time, she will try a few times to get it right.

And when I told her I can't understand, she will give me a reply like 'ermmm..' and then try again. It's really funny. Just the other night, I was reading a book to her and explaining to her something when she replied a 'oh I see'. I looked at her and exclaimed. You should see her proud face.

She is still quite wild at times with Kerri around but when she's not, she is pretty well-behaved. I am having an easier time bringing her out by myself. She will listen and sit to eat when I told her to.

Lately she's becoming more affectionate. She will hug me from behind, say 'I love you' to me and of course which I have to return her back with 'I love you too' and she will reply with a 'You are welcome' and demand I said thank u back.

I'm letting her having less time with the gadgets whenever I can. I realized her temper is the worst when she's with those stuff. She can totally ignore her surroundings when she's engross in the iPad or iPhone.

So we got this mini music band set for her and she's trying to get the whole family by assigning one instrument to each of us. Usually Kerri will get the shakers. Why? Because I guess it's the only thing she's good with. Haa!

Kerri on the other hand is getting more handful. She is quite an individualist too. Or should I say a unique being? The challenge that god has set for me seem to be getting tougher.

Now she now knows how to clap, splash, wave goodbye and make known that she's hungry. Whenever she sees people eating, she will make out noise to reach out for food. And she really demand to be fed right at once. Now she's taking in porridge twice a day and each time it's nearly 2/3 of a rice bowl.

And she looks cute when she smack her lips after the food went into her mouth. I think she may be like Keira. Learning to walk before crawling. She is very good with her walker now. Just this week, she is able to go all sort of directions wherever she desires.

And well so today I brought the two of them to the supermarket and I got Keira to give Kerri a kiss. In the end she gave not once but twice.

Is it a sign that sibling jealousy is subsiding?? I certainly hope so.

Year end once more

2011-11-02T06:59:00.001+08:00

November and December are always the 2 fav months for me. It's not surprise why because my birthday falls in November and our wedding anniversary will be on the lovely Christmas Day.

I have already got my 2nd part of birthday present from Hubby which is a concert night. And seriously I don't know what he has in plan for my 1st part of birthday present. I have totally no clue at all.

Probably I will book us a dinner at a lovely restaurant where we will dress smart. Just the 2 of us perhaps. I hope the dresses that I have ordered online will come soon in time.

We attempted to celebrate Christmas once at our place but in the end, almost all invited guests pulled out at the last minute that we called off the entire party. Talked about all the preparation ready and the excitement.
It was the first time that it happened to us and it was a total disappointment.
Well anyway it was a few years back.

Probably this year I will try to make ourselves some good Christmas dinner and spend the night with the kids and Hubby. A quiet holly night. I kind of miss the white Christmas that we had in Mountain Home though. Snowy, white, cold and then us getting cozy at home and opening our presents. Exactly how it will look like in the scene of a typical movie.

And after all this, I hope our home makeover can progress as I had planned. *cross fingers*

Cheers to the number 33

2011-10-26T16:47:00.000+08:00

We had a wonderful time over the weekend which extended to Monday. Stayed at MBS and was greeted with a spectacular view from the balcony.

We celebrated hubby's 33rd birthday there and everyone was really just having a good time. Keira was so excited then she still couldn't get to sleep near 11pm which is very unusual.

Had the birthday dinner at Jin Shan restaurant with mum, baby brother and us. Dad didn't joined as he had something on which didn't fulfilled in the end. How disappointing. Invited bro and family along but they couldn't make it as well.

After the dinner, we got ourselves a complimentary birthday cake from Sweet Spot and had it in the hotel room before we proceeded to Skypark for some nightviewing. Boy must I say that the view at 57th level was breathtaking.

I got him a Sunto divecomp for his present which he will be frequently using for his occassional dive trips without the hassle of renting one. In bright yellow of course.

The next morning, we took Keira up to Skypark for a swim and I couldn't fit myself nicely into my swimming suit that I only managed to find out the night before. So it's a pity I gave the dip a miss.

Keira was simply enjoying herself practically. She already had a few exceptions throughout the stay like digging into cake at 9pm, having a soak in the bathtub with me at 10pm for almost half an hr and sleeping close to midnight with drinking bubble tea and munching on Koko Krunch while shopping around.

Later in the night, we met up with my side of family and had dinner at Melben Seafood though I actually find the crab noodles in soup a bit buttery. And this is the perfect ending to our small little getaway for Hubby's 33rd birthday.

Pondering...

2011-10-19T23:32:00.002+08:00

Just when I thought we have finally settled down and leading a normal life here in SG after returning back since 15 months ago, I am being asked to make another major big decision which of course Hubby will have the final say. Yes he is asked to return back to States next May. It's just another 7 months more to go.

He is saying he will think about it but wish me to give him my own opinion. This time round the decision is not an easy one to make considering we have 2 young kids with us. Not just the 2 of us leaving here.

I need to consider their education this time. Keira will just be 3 yrs old short of 1 month when we leave for States next May. Kerri will be 16 months old by then. Both will be of suitable age to attend the schools there. Much as I like their education system, I will be worrying about their mother tongue as well.

Well yes even though they have a Chinese teacher appointed from SG but she only teach Primary school and onwards if I am not wrong.

Considering how their both side of grandparents will be missing another 2 years of their toddler time. How we need to pack up the entire house. Going through the house rent out again. Starting our life once more there with them. I seriously wonder whether I can cope.

Fear is the only word I have in mind. I feel I won't have the enough courage to attempt another time not since the 1st time that I went despite I was heavily pregnant with Keira. It's tough to act strong and pretend to be very independent. But I guess I managed to bluff myself through in that 15 months there.

Anyway, I think I will still go ahead with our home makeover despite this sudden abruption to our plans.

We will see how it goes from here. I am too tired to think properly. I need to head off to bed.

I have been mean.

2011-10-16T22:59:00.001+08:00

Even though I am feeling so much better today but I tend to be snapping at people around me.

And I hate myself for that.

Promise. I will be a better person tomorrow.

Overwhelmed...

2011-10-16T14:34:00.002+08:00

Ok I guess everyone should have this kind of day. A day when you feel so helpless. A day when you feel you are the most useless person in the world. A day when you think suddenly everything around you turned out to be so negative. And finally I had a meltdown... I don't know why and what got into me.
I asked myself what has happen to me. Somehow I couldn't find an answer. Maybe taking of the kids alone has taken a toll on me especially when they are both sick and whiny. When both of them want my attention at the very same time.

Hubby is having his exams now and to add on, he needs to work on weekends as well. Is this the kind of normal life of a soldier? Being a military wife/gf for almost 9 years. I have to say I really had enough. Soon soon I tell myself... This will all be a history.

With the pay raise of domestic helpers, I think I will even have to put off this thought for now hence I truly do need part-time help badly. Sometimes I really hope the girls can grow up faster so that I can have my own life back once more. It's all about taking care of them. Yes it's my responsibilities I know. I mean it's okay to be selfish once in a while to have this kind of thinking right?

Thankfully today, I felt so so much better. Well at least the mini house makeover can keep my mind sane for the moment. It's exciting but definitely not on the pocket.

I am looking forward to next Sunday where the whole family will be heading to MBS for a night's stay. Finally I get the chance to visit the highly-rated pool with the magnificent view. I must have a swim there at least or even just soak in it. Hubby said we must pay a visit to the newly opened LV boutique. And the next day which is Monday, I have already taken off and maybe we can go for a KTV session which we haven't had in a long while.

Ok folks. I am all full of hope once more.

Exactly 1 yr & 3 months later....

2011-10-16T14:24:00.000+08:00

We decided to give the house a little makeover. It's time I should say.

The yellow walls in the hall. I cannot tell you how I am sick of them now. Especially with those uneven patches.

The super boring beige walls in the common bathroom that you can already feel sleepy when you haven't even enter it.

The sofa needs to go. BADLY.

The bedroom doors are still okay but we are thinking of changing it into more solid ones. They slam easily whenever we have strong winds blowing into the house.

The main gate perhaps can do with a change of the grill.

The girls' room. It will be either french-inspired or american-inspired. I am considering to build a customized wardrobe for them. I think the odd shape in the room is giving us quite a headache. Customization will be a good idea. Well, let's see.

A corner for myself in the study room. To put my long bought sewing machine to good use. It's time for some craft works.

I need a brighter kitchen if only I can have it expanded further. The counter space is just not enough for me.

And lastly, I need a livelier service balcony. I am thinking of how to incorporate it and turn it into a ironing corner as well. Placing the iron board permanently in the walkway behind the TV console is very unglamarous but very convenient.

Today the paint contractor just popped by to take a look at our house. Hope the quote will be within our budget.

And did I ever mentioned that IF budget is not an issue, we would love to get rid of the tiles in the hall too and have it fully cemented? Just like how my cousin did to her house. I just love her place so much.

Above to target to complete before Chinese New Year. I hope. I want.

Part-time help

2011-10-13T11:04:00.001+08:00

Finally I have succumbed to hiring a part-time help. I think weekends are far too precious to waste doing houseworks and neglecting the kids.

I usually will spend the early part of the day doing houseworks during the weekends so that the girls can have a peaceful nap in the noon while I prepare for Keira's dinner. And then it's play time or bonding time in the later part of the day.

And Kerri is most of the time comfortable playing in her jumperoo while Keira will play on her own when I'm doing the houseworks.

However, things are getting bad now. Work is taking a toll on me. And each day when we reach home, I will be so deadbeat that I don't wish to touch any work. Time will pass very fast by the time we got home and in a blink of eyes, it's bed time for them.

Houseworks are forever piling up and I am sick of the untidy sight at home. I think it will be worth to spend a bit of money to get the extra help in exchange for more time with the kids.

It's Only Wednesday?

2011-09-28T19:07:00.001+08:00

God knows why I have been feeling so tired for the past few days.

Had another ab blast class yesterday and the aching today really feel good. Usually we can have a pretty good night sleep but yesterday was a madness. Keira for no reason woke up almost every hr from 3am onwards and will cry and ask to be carry out.

The cycle continues till 5.45am I guess. That's why my first snooze went off and I actually was so tired that I slept past the 2nd snooze and woke up at 6.45am.

Rushed like mad and whizzed the girls off the house in less than 20 mins. Kudos to myself. And as expected, I was late for work and to make things worse, things are not any better in the office as well.

Rough day with few major meetings. I already feel like a walking dead now as I am keying this entry.

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Busy bee

2011-09-26T18:27:00.001+08:00

Wow I can't believe last week just passed like that. Attended a 2 day training course, then a wedding dinner and the twins' 3rd party. At least we have the Sunday to bond with the kids until we head out for dinner and left Kerri with MIL.

We went to Bugis to find casing for the iPad and decided to hop to Bugis village and popped by Heidi's shop. Bought a few items from there and there are of quite pretty quality.

Afterwards, we headed off to Liang Seah street to have steak dinner with the F1 going on near us. It's so near yet so far and how time flies that it's their 3rd year having the night race in SG.

Alonso didn't win but he did great though and came in well... 3rd place.

It's a week well spent and the coming weekends we will be equally busy with small baking with Keira, organizing dinner party @ our place, hubby going for his dive, lots of birthday celebration in October and complimentary night at MBS.

I can't wait! Now I'm thinking whether I should do a sit down dinner for my birthday celebration with Hubby and friends.

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Keira @ 26 month old

2011-09-16T14:23:00.001+08:00

Her speech is progressing very well. Sometimes I thought I am talking to an adult. I never know a 2 yr old kid can talk like this.

She now knows how to use her preposition quite well and understand better too.

And she grown quite a bit in terms of height and last night when I weighed her. She finally crossed over the 10 mark. She's 11kg now. That's quite an achievement. She can see from how chubby her face is and her double chin is getting so obvious.

And another major improvement. Her school run is no longer a dreadful one and she don't cry now. It took her about 3 months or so to get use to it.

Her Chinese vocab are growing and she like to name the objects she see now with colors attach to them.

She's into cooking and taking care of her doll now. Maybe she will turn out to be a great mum in future.

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Kerri @ 33 weeks old

2011-09-16T12:45:00.001+08:00

My little muchkin now has her own tantrum. She's no longer the baby who will just watch her toys being snatch away quietly. She will retaliate when Keira try to snatch her toys away by grabbing it tightly. And of course, each time she will lose she will burst into tears. This is such a headache. I can't seem to let Keira know she's her darling sister though sometime I can caught Keira talking to Kerri as if she's trying to teach her something.

She still don't really take semi-solid food in very well. Contented with just her milk. This is another challenge which we are facing now. We had tried different kind of variety but she don't really like them.

Maybe we will need to give her more time.

I'm training her to drink from sippy cup now. So far so good. She's still getting the hang of it.
Now her wake time is longer, we need to keep her entertain even more. She no longer is satisfied playing on her jumperoo or sitting in her bumbo chair seeing the activities that Keira and us are doing.

She wants to carry more and will cry for attention whenever she sees us but yet we walk past her. She loves to shake her head as if she's saying no. I can tell u it's very cute whenever she does that.

Her favorite cartoon is Mickey clubhouse. She can be so totally hooked on the tv and then shaking her leg when the hotdog song is on. Baby Einstein not really her cup of tea.

I think she kind of like how when I read to Keira and she lying in between us. Sometimes she seem to understand what I am saying.

She's starting to observe my mouth movement whenever I talk to her. I am waiting for her to start babbling for papa and mama eagerly.

Just last weekend we actually brought her out in the evening when she is suppose to have her bedtime. It definitely feel great to be out together as a whole family. She is rather well-behaved until she poo-ed in her diaper and start acting cranky.

However, after changing her, she's all good again and we went Medi-ya to do some grocery shopping. Wanted to bring the kids to enjoy the lighted boats for mid-autumn festival but we totally forgot about it until we drove out from the carpark.

I can't believe she's turning 7 months soon. It seems like alot of things have happened during this period.

Just tell me how can one not love this little being?

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Kerri's 1st birthday

2011-09-12T10:49:00.001+08:00

Keira had a rather colorful rainbow cake with jungle theme for her 1st birthday. And how can I not give Kerri a homemade birthday cake for her?

I'm already having a vision of her 1st birthday cake now. Considering it will be happen in 4 months' time. How time flies!

I've decided on a classic red velvet cake with cheesy cream as coating with cloud shaped cake pops! Being a more feminine being, I reckon she will prefer something classy chic.

I am penning this down in case. It's never too early to plan!

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Jewelry craze

2011-09-10T23:21:00.000+08:00

Lately, I have been hit by this craze real hard I mean especially in gold. I have been wearing white gold or silver for the past many years and never really like gold until recent years. Some people may think they look so uncool and 'old' especially for Chinese perhaps. But I personally feel they have this unique touch to jewelry. Of course I am not talking about those traditional heavy gold jewelry that you sees in goldsmith shop. They are definitely not my cup of tea.

Recently, I ordered 1 customized necklace from Stella Salvador. I had Keira and Kerri's name engraved on the gold disc which comes in 2 sizes. Big disc with Keira's name and 1 small disc with Kerri's name. I like the idea on how I can wear them close to my heart. And I have fallen in love with it that I can be seen wearing it everyday now.

And then, I chanced upon Catbird from NYC. Their pieces are gorgeous too! I like how they are not the standard kind of rings that you will see in the shops and they are all handmade. When we were searching for our wedding rings, we practically went to all local goldsmith shops but I do not like any at all as they all seem to be so mass produced. Until we came to this shop which specialize in unique jewelry pieces that we got our pair right on the spot.

Anyway back to Catbird, they have ranges vary from less than hundred to above thousands.

My favorite will be this diamond band but of course this belongs to the higher range.

Can this be my early anniversary gift?

International cuisine

2011-09-08T20:17:00.001+08:00

Hand carry beef steak from Adelaide oz + brown mushroom sauce from Japan = how bad can it get right?

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Blue on blue with flowy hair

2011-09-08T10:19:00.001+08:00

I want this hair BUT at the growth rate of my current hair, it may take another 2 years or so.

Does this big oval moon-stone ring look lovely or not? From Wanderlust & Co.

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A fun-filled day!

2011-09-05T18:03:00.001+08:00

Post PE holiday

2011-08-30T00:40:00.001+08:00

I need to confess. I did feel a bit guilty sending Keira to cc though we are both not working today.

We brought Kerri out for lunch today with Eugene and Doris. They are finally back and it really feels great catching up with them.

Had lunch at Lenas and it was pretty good. The choices are far too many to let us make any quick decision. Forgot to take any photos cause midway to lunch, we didn't realized Kerri pooped and she was gotten all cranky and when I changed her out shortly, she fell asleep.

My vongole spaghetti in tomato sauce is delicious and hubby's steak is cooked perfectly. It's hard to get the kind of medium done nicely.

And we chatted for quite a bit before they need to make a move and hubby had an appointment. So Kerri and I were left to roam Nex. Nothing much to shop. Waste of my time there but at least Kerri had a good sleep and was all smiley again when she woke up.

People around us keep cooing at her and commenting how smiley she was. So after hubby's appointment, we went to fetch Keira and she let out a 'eh!' when she saw hubby picking her up which is so rare.

After which, we went home to bath and changed out and headed to sakae for dinner. I bought kerri's formula at watson's and then went to ntuc to get her diapers only to realize they are selling $5 cheaper than watson's. What a bummer!

You know when one become a mother, you will auto switch to Aunty mode and do all the price comparison everywhere u can?

Silly me. Now as I typed this, I still can't get over the $5 that I have spent so unnecessarily. It's just a few minutes difference.

If only I have enough to last, I would have order from online.

Well anyhow, we had quite a busy day today and I can't wait for next sat to come. If hubby is free, I want to go down to h&m!

Excited on the upcoming versace collaboration for autumn collections!

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Humans

2011-08-26T16:40:00.001+08:00

The kindest intention can be mistaken as criticism or insult under bad lighting.

I read this at my cousin's blog and I couldn't agree more.

It's not the first time that I have this kind of experiences. I may be a chatty and 'loud' person but most of the time things I said really don't mean much harm. Though some people may not think likewise but that's beyond my control isn't it.

One friend told me perhaps they are jealous of you but I would rather think envy is the word. Jealous is such a strong word that I don't really fancy.

But why should they feel that way in the beginning? Each of us has their own life and fate. We should feel contented with what we have now. Seeing those around me being happy and healthy is all that I ask for.

Maybe they are trying to be competitive but thank you very much. I don't have much ambitious to want to strive to be the best in everything least trying to be ahead all the time. It will be all so tired.

I would rather strike a healthy work-life balance and slowly work towards my own goals and dreams.

I won't aim to turn my goals or dreams into reality overnight. If things don't turn out to what I want in the end, I can't blame anyone but myself. But that aside maybe I can tell myself that at least I tried.

Like the famous quote in Kungfu panda 2, find your inner peace.

Be happy. Be glad.

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Beef Wellington

2011-08-22T15:33:00.001+08:00

I think it's time to level up my cooking skills to a more advanced stage.

I first came across beef Wellington on MasterChef and have always want to give it a shot.

Lately, there's a recipe in one of Tyler Florence's book on this. I may attempt to try some day. It's time to invest in a meat thermometer I guess and reorganize my cabinet to stock up on pantry too.

This will make a great homemade candlelight dinner.

:)

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Good old Borders

2011-08-20T14:33:00.001+08:00

It's sad to hear that Borders @ wheelock will be closed for good.

We will hang out there during our dating days. And when we got married, this will be the hunt when we will first think of whenever we feel like doing on a lazy weekend. Then when I became preggy with Keira and during the period when hubby was in ST Louis for training, I will hop on the bus and go there to spend my weekends away too.
Until now, I will still bring Keira there and she will be so happily rummaging the shelves for books and grab them to ask me to read to her.

Last Saturday was the last time we were there. Waiting for hubby after his class and it's when I spotted Tyler Florence cook book.

Thank you for all the memories. It's sad to see u gone like that especially when borders stores in the states are having their out of business sales, you didn't manage to escape the almost similar fate after all.

It's a pity we had no photos taken in there for remembrance.

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Kerri @ 29 weeks old & Keira @ 25 months

2011-08-14T23:00:00.003+08:00

Today the girls and I had fun during our morning walks. Ok this is nothing much exciting. But we finally got kerri on the quinny stroller seating upright and she loves it. And Keira the busybody little helper insisted that she push Kerri. So there I have 2 happy kids with the mummy relaxing for a while although I still need to help Keira maneuver it as she is only good in pushing straight.

Here she's asking Kerri whether she enjoy herself with the shade that she asked me to pull down for her.

Kerri looking rather comfy in there.

Animated Keira having her Bread time before we made our way home

While coming back from our walk, we met the Australian neighbors in the lift living on the 9th floor. Keira was acting all shy when they tried to strike conversations with her. But the moment they were out, she got all excited.

Kerri seem to say huh, mummy. So fast and we are back home?

I think she has crush on Caucasians. Just yesterday we were having dinner at the Japanese restaurant. We were seated beside a table with dad is a British and mum is a Chinese and they have 2 cute looking boys aged around 11 I think.

She was practically trying to catch their attention throughout and when they left, she waved to the boys umpteen times and when the parents tried to say bye to her, she looked at them blankly. The mum muttered she just want to talk to the boys to the husband.

Oh well... Anyway, back to Kerri.

She now manages to 'walk' in the jumperoo and can go one round without assistance instead of just sitting in that same spot.

She is getting real good in seeking attention. She now loves looking at her fingers a lot and trying to pull her foot up and suck them.

She loves her baby biscuits and apples which of course she is only sucking on their juice. I regretted not buying the mashed bag that can hold fruits for babies to suck on from states as Keira never like sucking on anything except the soother and her milk bottle.

She is simply just such a cutie pie to look at all the time even when she's crying. That's my little pumpkin.

On the other hand, my dear Keira is becoming so talkative and it's hard not to miss her nonsense kind though she's still quite a brat. I must admit I find her so much adorable now with her new found talking skills and how she interacts with us like a small adult.

Like earlier on when she wants to get up to the bed after I asked her to grab the book from the bedside table. She said: 'mummy, help keira'. I ignored her cause it's so funny. And then she said again: 'mummy, help Keira. Keira take book.'

For the past few days, she has been asking for apples the moment she wakes up. And now she eats them with the skin.

I am amazed at how kids talk now. I don't know whether I talk like that when I'm 2.

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One thing leads to another

2011-08-14T04:26:00.001+08:00

Today it seems like I had accomplished a whole lot of thing. And the day got busy the moment Kerri is up right till I could finally relax with Keira while on our way taking the train to town.

Arranged for a demo on a very good vacuum cleaner at home. The sales is too hard sales and the attitude changed quite dramatic once we said we will get back whether to buy the set or not. Big put off even if I want to get one now I would not approach her too.

Then slightly before noon, started the baking session with Ade till late afternoon. My house is smelling chocolatety now and I kind of like it. Except for the cleaning up. Ha.

This morning on the cable tv I came across this guy called Tylor Florence cooking on a show. Those darn steaks that he was cooking were looking absolutely delicious. Went to borders and wanted to get the cooking book but was costing like double of what is selling at amazon. It's annoying that books here are most of the time overpriced. I refused to pay.

But on the other hand, our trip to the library is getting lesser now too. Mainly because Keira will make quite a nuisance of herself by disturbing the rest of the older kids around us.

Now most of the times I will hang out at Borders with Keira whole she's having fun ermm picking books, dumping them on my lap and asked me to read to her. I actually sat down and read the children's book written by Madonna. And it's quite entertaining I have to admit. Ha.

The other night, she actually found her 'Polar bear polar bear, what do you hear?' book under her daddy's stash of jeans and bermudas on the bedside table and read one page to me. Polar bear polar bear, what do you hear?That's the sentence. She must have missed them cause this is the no.1 book in Keira's book list now. Her toilet book too now.

I think I need to find more advance books for her. She's growing out on Eric Carle's books and those that I got back from states.

I should have bought those big books you know when you are in kindergarten and the teacher will use the long retraceable pointer to read out with you. She must have love them. Not sure whether they still do have them now. Those are my favorite parts of my kindergarten days.

How I miss those times when I can hang out at library and bookstores at any free time I had. And I am feeling shameful that I have not dropped by at our local quainty bookstore, Books Actually, once. I really need to visit it someday.

Hubby will be having his whole day lesson at 9am till 6pm and I nearly forgot about that. So ended up I have to do the vacuuming and the mopping all by myself. Double sian-ness.

But oh well I can try out Kerri on the quinny stroller tomorrow when we go for our morning walks. She is like forever in that car seat and now she can finally have a nice front view. She looked so mad adorable when I put her on Keira's umbrella stroller the other day.

Talking about her, she was lying on the changing mat one day when I walked off to grab something and found herself admiring and staring at her very own tiny fingers.

She seems all grown up now really. She might be the calm, sensitive and girly kind of little sweet girl that I have wished Keira will turn out to be. Ha. But the forever loud, fearless and tomboyish is one that anyone would love to have too. How the big contrast in these sisters.

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Keira @ 25 months old - the story of the soother

2011-08-12T10:04:00.001+08:00

Little Keira has finally weaned off from the soother. We couldn't be anymore proud and it seems almost effortlessly.

It started when she returned home from the doctor and wanting to take her nap. As usual, she will say mummy, pillow and tutu. I told her that she left her soother at the clinic and papa will bring back for her later.

And each time she asked, I will tell her the same thing and it works. So it's been 7 days now. And she asking for it lesser and lesser and have already managed to survive school with it as well.

06 aug 2011 is definitely a very memorable day for us.

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Hong Kong Trip 2011 - 香港之旅 2011

2011-07-31T22:34:00.003+08:00

We choose to go HK for this holiday is actually due to us wanting to bring Keira to Disneyland to have a blast. We went with 3 other families and 2 kids. Overall conclusion of the trip: TIRED. Most of the time are wasted waiting here and there. And wherever we go, we have to take into consideration of the 3 strollers in tow and whether they have sufficient space for us. Shopping is rather inconvenient too when we want to go shop at those places with very squeeze aisle. I think basically Hong Kong is not a very suitable place for kids. There are no escalators in the train stations. I would think when the kids are more grown up perhaps it will be much better.

这次到香港主要的原因是带琦璇到迪斯尼乐园玩。我们这次跟3个家庭和2个小孩一起去。感想：好累。大多数的时间花在等来等去。由于有3个小孩包括琦璇，我们去的地方都得考虑到他们。例如吃的地方要够宽放3辆婴儿车。去购物的地方也要方便。我觉得香港不是个很适合带小孩的地方。地铁站大多数没有电动扶梯。或许等他们大一些会更好吧。

On the first day
第一天

起飞前和琦璇来个合照。A photo with Keira before our flight.

Keira was feeling very uncomfortable with the safety belt that she need to fasten on before and during takeoff that she keep crying for quite sometime. Finally when the plane stabilized, I unbuckled her. She cling onto me so tight and then fell asleep. Partly is due to the medicine too I believe causing her to be cranky and drowsy.

琦璇在飞机起飞的时候不想系上安全带哭了一阵子然后在我的怀抱中睡了大概2个小时吧。也是因为她喝了药水的关系弄到她满累的。

Reached HK around noon time. Gave Keira a change of clothes as she's so afraid of the heat.

抵达香港大概是中午了。跟她换上比较凉快的衣服因为她最不受不了热的。

We took the cab to Disneyland Hotel. On the way, we saw apartments building in front of the sea with the mountains as the back. I believe the fengshui is very good and the price don't come cheap.

我们直接趁坐德士到迪斯尼乐园酒店。路途中看到满多公寓建在靠山靠海的风水。想必因该不是很便宜吧。

到了！孩子们很兴奋的在车上叫喊。

I like this vintage lift.

我很喜欢这复古的电梯。

Having lunch at this chinese restaurant. The meal set us off at S$200+. The food was okay but not that fantastic.

到餐馆吃午餐。这餐要$200多新元。食物还满ok的也不是说很好吃。

After lunch, we went to pick up our room keys. Upon reaching the entrance of the room, we were practically wow-ing. The place was quite magical. It was big and beautiful. No wonder the package doesn't come cheap.

吃完午餐了。我们就去拿房匙。一踏进去感觉很梦幻。房间又大又美。怪不得住一晚还并不便宜。

We can't resist jumping on the big bed.

让我们迫不期待想在上面跳！

to be continued 继续。。。

Simple joy is

2011-07-31T12:56:00.002+08:00

being greeted by my smiley kiddos after a tiring day at work

hearing the sleeping/breathing sound that the kiddos make every night

just able to have my 'Me' time be it that it happens only once a week

having a fruitful weekend spending time with each of them

hearing Keira sharing the stuff she learnt in school

being called 'Mummyyyyyy' by Keira in her sweetest voice

listening to the random babytalk Kerri makes whenever she tries to catch our attention

looking forward whenever hubby comes to pick me up from work

seeing how my parents are all loving making me wish we will be like them when we grow old

having a nice family meal out together

seeing those who are so dear to me are healthy, happy and content

There are so many things in life that I am thankful for.

I love my life now.

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It's a jinx day.

2011-07-25T09:58:00.001+08:00

How is it that when you are sick, the stupid clinic still requires you to make an appointment and told you that the doc can only see you in the afternoon? No walk in, no phone appointment, no nothing. Such crap! Don't they know you don't actually choose the time to fall sick. Furthermore to make appointment?? This is the joke of the year I must say.

And it's not doing any good when I decided to go back Sembawang to see another doc and need to wait in queue with 23 people ahead of me.

Shouldn't panel clinics be going through some sort of selections instead of the health company taking advantage of whichever clinic is willing to participate and just grab them and get them listed?

Since it's a company benefit, I'm reluctant to be paying for my own medical fees. Still, I can't help to grumble and yes because I'm a cheapo.

I think my day should spend nursing my health at home right after this doc's visit.

Goodness gracious me.

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Viking Hotdog

2011-07-22T07:45:00.001+08:00

Who still remember the Viking hotdog stall under the escalator at Bishan Junction 8? That used to be our favorite hotdog bun hunt during our poly days. And then one day it turned into Orange Julius.

I dreamt of it last night and how I really missed it. As I'm writing this, I am feeling so hungry. What makes it special is they top the bun with crispy onions.

Not even those in the states selling in those fairs.

Anyone know whether they still have any outlets left in SG?

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The Red Book (backlog entry for 4th July)

2011-07-19T13:33:00.001+08:00

Yesterday I took off from work to go down to ICA with Keira to collect her passport. Finally after putting off for almost a year now. She has her own little red book now.

Thank god we had made an appointment as there was really a crowd though it's a Monday. And throughout the trip, she seem to be so hyperactive even though she caught a cold.

Well since it's rare for me to be with her in town during the weekdays now. We went to do some shopping at Raffles Shopping Center. Managed to sit her in the shops whilst I shop. Sometimes the iPhone is indeed a savior in some way.

Grabbed a pair of sandals at Charles & Keith and I realized it's so hard to find a pair of decent shoes in SG now. Nothing seem to catch my eyes. I have been looking around a pair of working open toe shoes with kitten heels in black but no luck so far.

Mango had sales up to 70% discount but no good stuff found. Walked around a bit when I decided to grab our lunch but who knows Keira got all cranky and dozed off on my shoulders while trying to look for a nice place for lunch.

Ended up I have to carry her to get some lunch to go and took a cab home. From the time she dozed off, then the cab and back home, she slept for almost 3 hours. She must be feeling so groggy after her medicine. My poor baby.

And back at home, I am greeted by the usual cheery smiley Kerri who just woke up from her nap too.

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Mariner's corner steakhouse

2011-07-04T08:37:00.001+08:00

This was the first time we went there and we will definitely be back for more.

The steaks are reasonably priced, quiet ambience, free parking and they are rather well prepared.

Met up with the group for dinner and had a cake cutting session for DL. Ha!

I ordered the NZ ribeye while hubby got the lobster and steak combo that cost around $25 only. Ok the lobster is only half side but it's quite a big one I must say so.

My ribeye was cooked just the way I like it. Medium well with a tint of red but no bloody show for about $18 and to add soup, salad, drink and dessert we just need to top up about $4.50.

Fresh oysters

Salad

My ribeye

Hubby's lobster and steak combo

The birthday boy who looked kind of surprised

Keira wants to join in candle blowing too

Sulky Keira

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My girls

2011-06-25T20:44:00.001+08:00

In this life, the biggest achievements I ever had in life and that I am very proud of are definitely my two little princesses.

Nothing in this world can take them away from me. It always amaze me how the not-very-independent me will actually have 2 young life being so dependent on me and that i can actually provide them what they need.

It's odd to have this feeling and yet yes it's these feeling that keeps me going all the while.

No matter what tough challenges I may be facing in the future, they are my strength to carry on.

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Being adventurous

2011-06-15T21:34:00.001+08:00

Come to think of it, my life has never been much of any excitement or adventurous AT all.

I can't point a finger to anything adventurous that I have ever done. My parents especially my mum has always been protective of us or maybe me perhaps.

I never been to any camping during my school life. Maybe the teambuilding that I had in my co at Focus Adventure is one of the very first I had ever try.

Other than that, I'm just your typical indoor kind of lady. Reading, music (playing organ), visiting museums, watching performances and baking are alway my favorite hobbies anytime. Ok maybe shopping counts as indoor activity too. Hee!

And once we did a paint ball activity in bintan on a rainy day and another time kayaking in Bintan and cycling in pulau ubin.

The roller coaster rides that I took in movie world in Australia probably count too. And not forgetting those rides that we had at neighborhood fair when we were dating.

On the other hand, Hubby is the gang-Ho and adventurous guy. He won't say no to anything. Just like diving that he took up lately, mud trailing on his scrambler or rides at Six Flag. Well basically I can't think of anything that he won't dare to do or try.

Next up on his list is Skydiving. This got me excited too because I have always wanted to try it. Maybe parasailing as well.

He is thinking of planning a trip to Australia sometime next year to do skydiving!! And I am tagging along. The advise he gave me the other night was to go build up my courage first.

Well at least the thought of strapping myself to a professional doesn't sound so scary. And I will think it's the coolest thing that I will ever do in my life. Definitely no regrets when we grow old.

Just by thinking of it makes my heart skips, I just can't wait.

Evening time

2011-06-13T19:44:00.001+08:00

I knocked off a bit early today, went to parents' place to grab our dinner, picked up the two kids and now Kerri is asleep (she decided sleep is far more important than her 7pm milk feeding) while Keira is playing with her new 'slice n play fruits and veggie set' that we got for her yesterday.

The washing machine is doing its work and Hubby is cooped up in the toilet manning to his 'loo' business.

I'm waiting to get my shower!!!!

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Busy weekend

2011-06-12T23:20:00.000+08:00

Saturday, we brought Kerri for her 5th month vaccination even though she will only turn 5 months old next Sunday. The doctor deemed it's fine so we went ahead with it. She cried a bit and stopped after a short while. But how is it time flies so fast? I know I have been talking how I want them to grow up faster so that we will have a much easier time. Sometimes, I am simply eating my own words. It just seem like yesterday that I gave birth to Kerri.

We knew from TV that Barney is back in town as now it's the June school holidays. We went down to Marina Square to catch the last show. I salute those parents with young toddlers to actually queue like 2 hours before the 7pm show. I mean it's just Barney come on. Initially we thought of going to a nice restaurant for dinner but seeing the time nearing, we decided to have dinner at the Food court instead. I shared the udon with Keira while Hubby had the claypot curry. The curry really turns out to be quite yummy.

Pretending to be asleep on papa's shoulder

Vainpot trying out hats at Topman

Our balcony seats view for the Barney show

Supper at Mac

I have been telling Keira for don't know how long that we will bring her to play on the trampoline and decided that today is a perfect day to do it. Woke up early in the family and we got all of our butt out of the house by 10am. Had brunch at Jones the Grocer before we popped over to The Pantry.

Queueing at Jones

Brunch as usual was yummy at Jones and Keira ate quite a bit of our combined meals. Kerri on the other hand was basically quite well-behaved entertaining herself throughout until the last bit of the meal before she decided to act up. She wants her sleep. So off we go to the Pantry. They had a private function. A birthday party for a young little girl but we managed to sneak and played on the Trampoline for a fair bit before the owner informed us of the party. Well, this nice lady didn't attempt to chase us off. She just said nicely but we decided we have played enough and left the place.

Off to United Square to check out Keira's birthday present and Joben's. Wanted to get the Twist n Roll scooter for Keira but I think she's still quite young for it and furthermore, Argos UK is only selling like 20pounds rather than the $125 they are selling here. It's a huge saving! Instead just bought a food set for her to add on to her cooking toys at ToyRus. Had Ben n Jerry's ice-cream before we head home. Yes lah! Haha.. I finally succumb to paying $5 for a single scoop of chocolate brownie. It's just as yummy as it was.

Keira @ 23 months old. The worst has come....

2011-06-09T22:15:00.000+08:00

Keira dreads the mere mention of the word 'school'. She was all cheery this morning when she woke up. Even before she open her eyes, she already giggled and said mummy~~~ Till when I wanted to change her into her school uniform, she began to whine... Whine and whine until we reached my mum's place.

She cried when she saw the school and then cried all the way till the end of the day with occasional breaks in between. The cook auntie told my dad. Ms Chai said she only drank 1 oz of milk after her meal. I guess she didn't sleep well either. Just 8+pm. She said she want to 睡觉. And zonked off within a few minutes.

I already knew this will come when she started to whine a bit when we talked about school on Tue. And then 1 day come another, she seems to have a phobia for that word.

Well, still, this is no excuse to withdraw her out of the school again. We will not be give up so easily. It will not be easy but we will persist on.

Anyway, to us, school isn't that bad afterall.

Now Keira is picking up her speech at an amazing pace which kind shocked us. For instance, the other night when we went to pick her from my mum's place, she said Papa working, mummy working. And when Hubby was disturbing her, she said go away. And she is trying to learn how to sing ABC song now. She nearly got them just the alphabets she will jumble up and mumbled her way through when she can't catch up with me.

She listen to instructions better even though there's still PLENTY of room to improve.

Ok now. Off to catch up with my daily reads!

We went to town by TRAIN - our weekend

2011-06-08T22:54:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday, Keira and I took the train to town to meet up with Hubby after his class. This is the 1st time that we took MRT. The last time we took together was when we were just back from states and she's just 13 months. How fast time flies...

We just walked around Centerpoint and went Mothercare to get some new onesies for Kerri and then we shared a cup of Haagen Daz ice-cream before Hubby finished his class. And then we decided to visit Somerset 313 and Keira's Uncle James joined us too. And shop and shop until Keira got hungry and was in a very cranky mood.

I am quite happy to see the transformation of the now Mandarin Gallery. So many designers now. Went to check out Bread & Butter and I think this is one of Hubby's favorite shops now. And when we went into Y3, Keira couldn't resist a purple shoes that cost $230+ that I have to snatch it from her and dragged her out of the boutique. I tell you this young girl is picking up her fashion sense at a rather young age. LOL.

On the train

At Bread & Butter. Making herself comfortable on the chair.

I found this rabbit like this one day while I was in the toilet washing up. Another Keira's work it must be.

Practicing her coloring and drawing on a fine Sunday afternoon. What a glorious day. Too bad we are cooping up at home. But hey yes. I said it I mean it. Will spend a full day at home with the girls for bonding.

Forgetful me.

2011-06-08T20:11:00.001+08:00

Sometimes I can really 气死自己. Have you ever stash away stuff that you will think will come in handy someday and then totally forget it completely until one day you suddenly discover them once again? Well it happen to me like all the time.

Take for instance the other day when I was sorting the store room and rediscovered my MacBook pro box which I can't bear to throw away and inside there is this never use before remote control to access my old MacBook pro (which I have already sold off) and now becoming a white elephant. Well at least I can still use the 3-pin plug adaptor changer with my US 2-pin plug.

And another time I was bathing Kerri when I felt that she ain't getting any lighter for me to bathe her with one hand when I suddenly remembered I had actually pack the bath sling back from the states when I didn't have the chance to use with Keira, it was such a relief to find it and Kerri is able to bathe in comfort thanks to it.

As Kerri becomes bigger, it's quite impossible to swaddle her properly with the cloth diaper anymore and the swaddle cloths that we brought back is just too warm for Singapore weather. So I found the kiddopotamus swaddleme in the cupboard and tried it on Kerri. It fits very nicely and really snuggle her quite well.

Just like some of Keira's clothing that the mummy here forgot to bring out to let her wear when she is able to fit in and the tags are still intact. At least the thought of Kerri can get to wear them comforts me.

Nonetheless at least some of those stuff still manage to come in handy at the right time though.
P

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Keira goes to school

2011-06-04T23:15:00.000+08:00

It's her third day of school yesterday. Hubby and I were with her the whole day on the first day and subsequently she was left to fend on her own.

But I can tell she's slowly progressing well.
On the second day, she cried for about half an hour when I left her after their breakfast. How do I know? I was sitting at the stone chair beside the center. And decided the more I hear the more heartache I will be so Hubby asked me to just go home and wait for the school to call if she is not ok. Apparently, she is quite ok throughout with occasional crying during class transitions and did not take her nap.
While on the way to market to grab some breakfast yesterday, I met 金老师. She said Keira finished up her bowl of kway tiao and behaved much better than she expected. I was grinning when I heard that. Whoever come in contact with Keira will be definitely be aware of her foul temper.

Ms Chai feedback to me on the 3rd day that Keira had 2 bowls of macaroni and took her nap too. But come Monday, she may act up all over again since she will have a break over the weekend. I just hope she can adjust herself well.

Seriously, I couldn't be any more proud knowing Keira is taking her next step to becoming a more independent child.

Parenting has its sweetness too and I am savoring it right now.

1st to school and my mum got her to 'pai pai' for a smooth day

Breakfast on 1st day: Bread with cheese and milk

Going for their morning walk

Lunch on 1st day: ABC soup with rice

Fruit after lunch on 1st day: Papaya.

My T.T aka tiny tot or rather my terrible two.

What went wrong?

2011-06-01T23:00:00.000+08:00

Am I really getting more forgetful each day or I am just relying on the trusty iCal? I can't imagine life without it now. I need to be reminded on every little tasks that I need to do. My brain just doesn't work the way I would like it to be. And if I need to get something imprint in my brain, I have to mumble it out. It really kind of freak me out thinking how bad my memory gets lately. Maybe I need to finish up the remaining bottle of the DHA left in the fridge.

Just the other day, I wanted to share something with my mum and there I was happily yakking away. My mum was giggling. I asked her what's so funny because I was just into the story mid-way and she said I already told her the day before which I can't really recall it at all.

Ever since I started work once again, life just keep getting hectic and chaotic. My household is in quite a mess with halfway done chores all over. I totally need to have a little break right now by doing some blogging before I start to clear the piles of clothes sitting on my recliner for the past week. I have taken 2 days off to settle Keira into the new childcare so at least I do not have to wake up so early.

So from now onwards, we will be having quite a bit of change in our daily routine since she's attending full day childcare.

0545 - Good morning! I have decided this is the best time for me to wake up so that I can have ample time to get myself ready for work, cleaning their bottles, clear the trash bin and ensure that I have all of things packed in Keira's bag for her stay in the childcare.

0640 - We are either being send to my mum's place by Hubby or pick up by my Dad

0730 - Send Keira to CC before I am being send to work by Hubby or Dad

1700 - 1800 Keira will be picked up from the CC by my mum or by Hubby

1900 - Reach mum's place from work and have dinner

2000 - Bring the kids home

2030 - Have a shower if there's help around in the house else I will shower after the kids are asleep. Do some reading or playing with Keira after putting Kerri to bed since usually she will have her last feeding before bedtime at my mum's place

2130 - 2200 Keira's bedtime or sometimes it's my bedtime too

As you can see each day, I just have approximately of about less than 2 hours with Kerri (excluding feeding time). This is so depressing. So the only time that I can make up for her is during the weekend and it's not helping when weekends are the days that we will be out of the house often. She will be either be in her car seat, push around in the stroller or left at MIL's place if we are going out for dinner. The though of it sadden me.

So I have decided we will spend only 1 day during the weekend OUT of the house from now and the other day at home spending quality time with the kids. Much as I will feel bored cooping at home, I feel there's really a need to sacrifice.

At least, the coming weekend, Hubby will need to attend classes so there's no reasons for us to be out of the house and then the following weekend, I will probably be busy at home preparing for Keira's birthday party and the next weekend, we will be celebrating Keira's birthday on the Saturday which leave us the Sunday to rest well at home and clean up the house too. And the following weekend after her birthday, Hubby will be off for his diving again. So yes, these are the plans for our June weekends.

Come to think of it, never in my life will I ever think there will come someday when I will hardly have time for TV at all. I am missing so many good shows and dramas on Channel 5 ever since the birth of Kerri!!! And silly me am still contemplating whether to subscribe to cable. But most probably will get a medialink software which will cost US$20 to watch movies from my mac to Hubby's PS3. I reckon it will be more worth it in the long run.

I have so many things on my to-do list and I SERIOUSLY need to get more organized than before. Just the installation of the bamboo blinds in the balcony is taking weeks because the sales guy just seem to be SO SO SO busy to come down and take the measurements. Definitely have to keep bugging him to speed up the job.

Next I still have Keira's birthday to plan. The food menu is still a headache as I am thinking how to even get started with the preparation with the 2 kids around at home. Think think think!

Inviting my family to a long overdue steamboat fare at my place is another a to-do list which I never get it done.

See even this blogpost that I wrote seem messy too! I am such a mess now! My brain system needs some serious upkeeping.

Keira @ 23 months old

2011-05-21T10:30:00.000+08:00

HAPPY 23th month, Keira! 1 month later, she will be officially 2 yrs old.

Yesterday, I spent closed to $70 after using a 20% discount on books for Keira and myself. My reading of the chinese poems has definitely pay off because she's now able to converse both in Chinese and English although not so well yet but I'm already proud of her.

When she wants to drink water, she will say 喝水 and if she request to be carry, she will either say carry or 抱抱. She can piece words together to form a short sentence now. But if she gets too excited, you cannot understand what she's trying to say except to catch the main words. She's getting more expressive now. However, she has a big problem of whining over slightest things and the most dreadful thing is if she don't get her way, she will just lie down on the floor. Now tell me about it. I hate kids doing that and then now my daughter is doing this to us.

I am still thinking when will be a good time to sleep train her in her own bed in her own bedroom. With Kerri around, my plan seems to be keep putting off. Persistence, Mummy!

I am going to install an outdoor blind soon for the balcony so that I can park the girls' walkers, mobiles, rockers and pushcarts out there. Now 1 corner of my hall is just solely for parking their toys and I just counted. 10! Maybe I can start a toy renting company when they outgrow all these. Never in my life will I imagine my house to be filled with so much kids' stuff. It's really a chore to tidy up the house every night when they are asleep only to have them messed up again the next day. Never ending task.

Jimmy is going to bring back a set of table and chairs for them too. Perhaps it's good to place in the balcony too. I wonder if I can paint them. It looks pretty dull.

Wanted to get this set instead but the price increased by US$30 that I give up. It's so much nicer right? But anyway US$45 for the above set is quite worth it too. I should be thankful that he's able to bring back for us already.

I am also thinking of relocate their current play area to the balcony too. At least it's more windy and outdoor than the small bar counter area. Still deciding though.

Korean sausage is so good!

Her birthday invitation

At the chinese restaurant playing with Reyes

In bed with mummy. Silly time again

She love bathtubs!

Kerri @ 16 weeks old (4 months old)

2011-05-20T23:11:00.001+08:00

My baby turned 4 months old yesterday. She's a far more chirpy baby than Keira when she's of the same age. You can't keep looking at her while doing the feeding because she will thought you are playing with her and she will get distracted and keep smiling. When you are trying to undress her for a bath, she will think you are playing with her too and she will giggle non-stop. Just last night, she laughed in her sleep together with Jie Jie. BUT when she wants her milk or sleep, she still MUST get them no matter what.

We were shopping at PS the other weekend when we just arrived there for just a short while because she cried non-stop no matter how I pacify her. And in the end, we ended our trip short. The moment we hit back in the car, she fell asleep in her car seat. What a spoilsport she is really!

So I have set up the jumperoo and the walker (both meant for 4 months and up) passed down from Keira. BUt looking at it, I think she can only start perhaps 5th months onwards. Her neck is getting steadier but not that steady yet. At least, she can sit comfortably in her bumbo chair for a longer time now.

Her milk intake now is ranging from 4oz to 4.5oz every 3 hours. My mum told me she fed her 5oz today while I was out and she finished all of them. Usually when I was working, she will be already be asleep at my mum's place by the time I reach there. So around 8pm when we headed home, we will bond with her for a while before giving her the last feeding and put her to bed. And the feeding usually can last her till 3-4am or sometimes till the next morning (but that's very rare case). Now she usually fell asleep around 6pm+ and off to lala land...

Experts say the best bedtime for kids is from 6-7pm. Well, of course back in the states, I can manage that and Keira will usually be asleep when we are having our dinner. Much as I am trying but I know once when I'm back to work again, Kerri will just have a later bed time again.

Just today while Hubby and Keira was playing together, Kerri actually laughed at them and the way she looked is as if she wants to join in the fun too. It was hilarious. I mean she's just a 4 months old baby. Keira was never like that at all.

At Week 15

Hubby and Keira had a similar photo too and were taken in a Jap restaurant too!

See...

At Week 16

In the arm of Popo who dote her dearly...

Her new friend, the Peacock

Mr Sun

2011-05-09T18:19:00.002+08:00

Can it get any hotter or not? Spent the past weekend at home and the whole house was simply like a greenhouse.

It's already approaching evening time and you can feel the hot heat raising from the ground right here where I am waiting for my dad to pick me up from my workplace.

It's less than a week before I say goodbye to this place. It's nice knowing the people here especially J and my rather dramatic boss who is too good to be true. Well, it's a pity. But one really needs to move on when the time is ripe.

This move on is rather a quick one though.

My neat workspace and it really is this way always.

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Getting breathless...

2011-05-02T22:49:00.000+08:00

It's really hard to juggle with work, social life, self-developement and family. And I am only a mother of 2 not 3 or 4 or 6 (as what dear Jes said she dreamt of).

It seems like I've begin to lose myself to life.

Work - I am at this cross junction not know where I wish to go forward next. I am stuck. It's getting nowhere. It's neither here or there at this point. I no longer know what I really seek in my career. No more that ambitious anymore.

Social life - I feel myself drifting slowly from my girlfriends. I simply do not have the capability to be able to get away and meet up with them as and when I wish to now. Logistic is very important in this aspect.

Self-development - It's already quite an achievement if I can finish a good book within a short period of time. Let alone to say finding a cardio class to work off those wriggly tummy or to attend anything to further improve myself.

Family - Well, at least I have my 2 darlings right? So I guess it isn't that bad. Even though I will be getting so tired by the end of a working day and upon reaching home, we will have only like a couple of hours to spend before bed time. For Keira, we still have a bit of bonding especially before bedtime, when I have to read to her every night. But for Kerri, she will already be fast asleep whenever we reached home, all I can do is to tuck her in and give her a peck on her forehead before saying good night to her.

I seriously need some enlightenment in life now. It seems like everyone's life is getting so excited and fulfilling whereas mine ... I don't know what to say.

Perhaps I really need to set much smaller goals that I can attain regularly instead of bigger ones and make myself so miserable. Maybe God has something plan for me out there. I just need to continue seeking, that's all. But for how long? I am getting a little impatient here.

Read: When did I get like this?

2011-05-02T13:57:00.000+08:00

One word to describe this book: Honesty. The way the author wrote cannot be any real than what I would say most mummies have been through.

I am pleased to say that Amy Wilson hit so many things head on that I am highly recommending this book to all new mothers, and mothers of young children.

Random

2011-04-30T14:30:00.000+08:00

Today I've planned to take Keira to Plaza Singapura. Wanted to go Spotlight to check out some stuff. Each time when I have my plan carefully laid out, there's bond to be disruption. And so today was that she refused to nap at 12pm her usual nap time. *pulling hair* So she dozed off within 3 mins while I was reading to her at 2pm.

So later in the evening I will be meeting Jes for a dinner at Sun Plaza instead. It's been a while since Keira met her too. Another Jie jie non-stop evening...

Just to clarify that the reason why I am back to blogging in here is due to me don't really fancy wordpress platform and most importantly, I thought why should I care about what others think of me right? I really can't be that bothered anymore.

So planning for Keira's big day now... 51 days to go. And on the TV now is the repeat telecast of the Royal Wedding. I like Kate's drop earrings more than her wedding gown.

:)

It's not that good afterall.

2011-04-24T13:23:00.001+08:00

Can I just say how you (2kg) sneakily add on to my tiny body without my slightest knowledge? I had a weigh last night. The weighing machine has been abandoned by me ever since I gave birth to Kerri. I used it almost religiously to check on whether Kerri is growing nicely inside me.

So yesterday the aircon lads came to service our air-cons and shifted our bed to climb out of the window to clean the compressor. And there it was. Tucked under the bed for a good few months now with dusts on it.
I took it to the bathroom and decided to give myself a weight and I declare that I am now 42.5kg without a baby inside me.

This got me panicked. I know I've been yearning to gain weight for the longest time but it's not good when the growth goes towards the tummy area. Oh gosh! And so I took out the nicely wrapped hoola hoop (for the shipment from USA back to SG) that have been with me for years.

I will start on it tonight... Let's go with 2 commerical breaks (30 mins) hopefully.

Kerri @ 12 weeks old (3 months update)

2011-04-24T08:41:00.001+08:00

Each time when I am doing an update of the kids, I really can't help but sigh on how time flies. Kerri turned 3 months old this week. Just yesterday, when I took out the Bumbo chair to let her try, she really laughed out loud. I mean this never happened to Keira. She don't laugh like that at all. And at most, it's just her brightest smiles that she will give us.

Kerri @ 12 weeks old (3 months)

So it's kind of funny when Keira and I heard her laughed like that. We couldn't help but to chuckle at her too. And not to miss the moments, I took clips of that moment. I had uploaded one in FB but here's the other one which Keira took. Warning: It's quite badly taken.

I have been back to work for 2 weeks now. And I can't help but feeling bad that I am not able to give her the attention that I gave Keira. And each day, I just look forward to my mom calling and updating me on their well being.

She's now drinking 3.5 oz after 3 hours. I remembered when Keira was at this age, she will drink every 2 hours and how I had to train her to drink every 3-4 hours.

Out on Sunny Sunday －星期天之玩乐

2011-03-31T12:58:00.000+08:00

Erm... I think the chinese title sounds weird. But I have already try to make it more appropriate.

这个华语的标题是不是有点奇怪？我想不到跟好的标题了。

We joined a group of Hubby's colleagues at Dempsey initially for afternoon tea but because Keira woke up a bit late for her nap, we have missed their last order. Hence, we didn't manage to join them at the cafe but just walked around Dempsey and Hubby's colleague was kind enough to shoot some pretty photos of us using his SLR camera. My dad was also into photography back then as a hobby. I should have taken over his cameras. Wonder where they are now.

我们原本约了坤仔的同事在Dempsey吃下午茶但是因为琦璇睡午觉睡的有点迟所以刚不到。于是就在附近走走拍照。用SLR的照相机真的很不一样。以前我的老爸也是对摄影很有兴趣。早知道应该接收那些相机但是我看他也不知道放哪里了吧。

There were this shop which sell carpets but they also keep quite a number of parrots beside their shops with 2 malay guys tending to them. But it's quite sad to see that those birds actually got their wing clipped. They reminded me of our pet birds many years ago. I still miss them lots.

在一间卖地毯的店旁边养了好多只鹦鹉。他们还请了2位马来人顾那些鸟。可是可怜的鹦鹉。他们的翅膀有被剪掉一些。然我想起了当年养的那些爱情鸟。好想它们。

After Dempsey, we went town to do some shopping and had dinner at Tonkichi Japanese restaurant. Finally got my refill of Ettusais powder. I think the last cake lasted me for almost a good 2.5 years. Bought some snacks at the Japanese fair @ Isetan. There were some Japanese volunteers seeking donations for the disaster and donated some money.

Dempsey之后我们到乌街路逛逛。在日本餐享用晚餐。

Keira @ 21 months old

2011-03-26T14:08:00.002+08:00

The speed that Keira picks up learning now really amaze us. She can just memorize what we taught her once and then perform it to us out of nowhere.

She demand self feeding while at home with me. She still need to practice more on her grip. So normally she don't really eat to her full cause she refused me to feed her. And afterwards will come begging for food/snacks.

I like the way she's trying to attempt 3-4 syllabus word but how all of them will be minced together. It's funny.

For eg, watermelon, airplane,
good morning and etc.

Here she is trying to help me hang clothes while holding on to my wristlet on her left. She is always seem to be busier than me in this household.

She will greet the cleaner almost every morning cheerfully when uncle is sweeping our corridor with a hi follow by good morning!

Now everywhere we go, she will go around and name colors. But of course, more wrong than right. She just loves to say green for almost all the thing. When comes to blue, she will purposely make a big O with her lips and say blue....by dragging it. Ha. She likes to point at things and look at me expecting me to tell what those colors are.

Her must read in the bathroom every morning.

She loves her phonics. And she can make the sound of abc quite well now. Her favorite by far is letter N cause it links to her fav NO!

Her sense of rhythm is improving too. She can coordinate better with her limbs now. But I don't think I will be introducing her to any music lessons as yet. I believe it's more appropriate for them to start formal music learning at 6-7 yrs of age.

This is her insisting me to put on my tunic top on her. She must had felt like a performer. Swaying herself to the music.

Her favorite number flash cards are 21 & 23 because of the colorful fishes on number 21 and the yummy cookies on number 23.

She will say dance! Whenever there are music on the tv, be it commercial or her fav kids program/cartoons. She know when to spin and say spin! Making herself all giddy and then stand there laughing at herself.

The other day at the babyfair. The special guests are the characters from whitz and she really went crazy over there. I tried to let her do a shoe fitting but the moment she hear the music, she said she want to watch and her body wriggles like a worm and behave as if she can 'chiong' over there in the shortest time. Simply refuse to wear the shoes. Thankfully the show lasted for only 10 mins.

When comes to playing, she just loves to stack and line them up neatly according to shapes, colors and size. Anything not in order she will redo them.

Now, I'm introducing her to start on her Chinese learning. Brought a few Chinese poems 古诗 and idioms. If not for those hanyu pinying, I think I can die. Hubby think I sucks. But I'm going to prove him wrong. I will soon be memorizing all the poems to him. For now Keira can say a few simple Chinese words like 小猪，狼，你好，谢谢 and 再见.

What's the word in front of 读? I read twice from 1st page to the last page before she took her nap. Hope it is a good beginning.

It's tough being a teacher to your own kids. What will ever happen once they hit primary Sch age?

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Nostalgic / Vainty hits once again

2011-03-25T23:39:00.001+08:00

Why would anyone buy a piece of metal for half a million??? But on 2nd thoughts, who won't if they have the ability... Today I had a very close encounter with a moving Maserati. It pulled right in front of me while I'm attempt to cross the road. The driver turned in and was waiting at the guard post for the barrier to be lifted up... Oh man.. the engine sound is so so so low and sexy~ And with its 20" rim.. well I presume it's the sports GT version.. Can I say it's very nice? And of course with the handsome driver there's nothing to fault about. I am not sure whether Singaporeans are getting richer because I saw so many nice cars zooming around just in the Kallang area.

......

Ok above is quite irrelevant to what I want to blog. So the company that I went for the interview is exactly located at the same building that I have worked in 4 yrs ago. Time flies. It's just 2 levels above. After the interview, I couldn't help but to check out who is occupying our units. A small unknown company and I spotted that they have kept our 'ugly' blue carpet. I really missed those days working there. It was just so fun and I have gained a mentor who truly taught me a lot about my work. Really appreciated it.

.....

It was so rare for me to get out alone by myself as I have left the 2 kids with my mum for this interview. Seeing the time is still early, I decide to go shopping around Raffles City shopping center. And I am so sad to know that my fav Perlini's Silver shop is closing down in Singapore. Wanted to get the silver solution and the cloth for my tarnished T&Co. pieces which I have so neglected them. But nothing much was left in the shop since they are having a 70% discount storewide.

Walked to G2000 and saw their collection getting quite impressive. Very 'Mango-like'. I saw a silk silver dress which is so handsome but too bad my size are all sold out. Damn it. But at least I got a decent skirt from Mango afterwards. I am on a mission to revamp my wardrobe. I need to look like my age now. I want a neat, chic and sophisticated wardrobe. Good luck to me.

I cannot believe that my feet are being tormented by my lovely own heels. I have stored them away for a good almost 2 years. Twice I wore different pairs to my interviews and twice I came back with some blisters here and there. I can forgive the Nine West which I got it in the States because it's my 1st time wearing it.. But not my favorite pair of Schu heels..

We were shopping on Thursday at Junction 8 when we came across a very cute of ballerina shoes. I so wanted to get it for Keira. It's about $40 but it's made in Korea and I swear that the quality is really there. The one which I got from Korea in 2008 has serve me well till now. I regretted not buying a few more pairs in different colors la!

Ok time for bed... Hubby is soaking himself in fine wine while I'm soaking myself with puked milk... How fair life is sometimes.

Another typical day in our household

2011-03-23T22:40:00.001+08:00

These 2 sisters on good days will be such a breeze for me looking after them. Well today is apparently not one of them.

Kerri kept crying on and off. Tried feeding her but she will be crying her lung out and do not want to suck at all. I think I've wasted quite a bit of milk today. Then after a long cry, she will drift back to sleep for like half an hr to an hour before waking up. The whole cycle just keep repeating. She's really driving me insane today. I can't hardly to do stuff with Keira or around the house without entertaining her like every few mins.

And when she dozed off at around 8 pm earlier on, I quietly shoved the milk bottle in and she finally had a good feeding for the day and sound asleep now.

Poor Keira. We don't have much moment to do activities together. All I heard myself telling her the whole day were either can you go and play on your own, can you read by yourself or can you work on your colorings??

I am beginning to dread mealtimes as Keira doesn't like to eat lately. I will be full of hope thinking I have just make another yummy meal for her but turned out she either take a few bites or totally reject it. I have to try all sorts of tricks to lure her to open up her precious mouth.

Feeding used to be so fun but not anymore. She is learning to self-feed now. It's exciting but yet when I see her happily eating her rice and only to carefully spit them out again. It's kind of annoying really.

Now as I'm blogging on the iPhone. The 2 of them are sound asleep snoring away.

I truly salute my mum who took care of us 3 siblings without any help at all. I am with 2 only and I'm already struggling. I must persevere no matter what. It will be soon before I return back to work (hopefully) and I think I will be missing all these moment.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Facts about babies

2011-03-23T14:46:00.001+08:00

Ever since becoming a parent myself, I have taken into reading parenting books apart from the kind I would usually read.

The facts and information never fails to amaze me. Although I did try my best to follow and relate them to my kids, sometimes it's really said easier than done.

Some facts about babies:-

* A baby is born every seven seconds.

* Babies are born with very poor vision but can recognize their mothers almost right away.

* Babies are born with swimming abilities and can naturally hold their breath. However, they shortly lose this instinct.

* Newborns usually double their weight by six months.

* Playing classical music will increase a baby's intelligence. (I truly believe in this. And it sorts of calm babies too)

* Reading to your child at ANY age will increase their knowledge. (I totally relate to this as Keira really likes her books now. I hope Kerri will take to this as well.)

* Babies and toddlers are, pound for pound, stronger than oxen. This is especially true of their legs. (Yes I totally agreed. Keira's kicks can be fatal and Kerri is always trying to learn how to stand now.)

* Babies are born without kneecap.

* Babies are born with 300 bones, but by adult we have only 206 in our bodies. The reason? Some bones fuse together later.

* Children born in the month of May are on the average 200 grams heavier at birth than children born in any other month.

* A newborn baby's head accounts for about one-quarter of it's entire weight.

* According to researchers at the University of Texas, babies like pretty faces better than plain ones.

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Updates.

2011-03-20T13:44:00.000+08:00

I know I have not been blogging often. Whenever I have some quiet time, I would prefer to catch up with my reads, good music and houseworks. It's so rare for me to have my quiet moments now. So there I have a pot of chicken stock cocking for Keira's dinner tonight in the kitchen now with both kids taking their naps.

Yesterday we paid a visit to the new childcare branch. The principal and the teachers are quite friendly. The place is rather quite simple decorated and perhaps it's a new branch and everything is still not quite ready yet. That's why it's looking a bit bare. Anyhow, I think it's the teachers, curriculum and the care that she received that are most important. So we will see how everything goes first.

My baby cousin who was so fortunate to get a chance to go Auckland for an education trip to their local kindys posted some photos on FB. And oh man, even I myself will volunteer to study in their kindergartens. Their learning environment is so CAREFREE! Emergent curriculum is what she said they are.

And so after the childcare visit, we went to our first baby fair. The weather kind of dampen our mood as it's raining quite heavily and there's no drop off point anywhere at Expo. How bad is that? Thankfully, by the time, Kerri finished her feeding, the rain stopped. We didn't get much though. Oh yes, we finally got the 'Korean' playmat from the fair. It's SG$140 for a medium size. We reckon it's quite nice looking so we got it. And some training pants and a pair of decent shoes for Keira.

Well, it's been a week since I cut my BANGS. Yes you read it right. Haha... The last time I had bangs was in 2007 and when I was a kid too la. So I'm still getting used to them and am loving them day by day. However, the stylist who cut it layered them quite a bit which I do not quite like. I am hoping they can grow out faster so that I can slowly trim them away. Even though, I would so much want to dye my hair, I think I better wait for another few months. Stylist said normally after giving birth, it's best not to dye the hair in anyway as it may promotes hair loss. So better play it safe.

Sunday brunch @ The Pantry。星期天的早餐。

2011-03-09T23:03:00.000+08:00

It's been a while since we actually headed out during the weekend. Mostly because Hubby is busy either with his studies or with his work. For consecutively 3 weekends, he need to return back to work either on a sat or a sun. Isn't the government trying to promote family harmony? How can we do so when he needs to return work during the weekend. They are depriving us of family bonding time. Very crap!

已经有一阵子我们在周末出门。都亏坤仔不是工作忙碌要不就是得上课。连续3周他不是读书就是做工。政府不是鼓励家庭日吗？那如果连周末都得工作我们能有多少家庭日呢？

Anyway, even though we can only afford to have our brunch before he needs to rush home to finish off his assignment. I am still a happy lady nonetheless. It's really better than nothing. To think, for the past nearly 2 months, Yishun and Sembawang seem to be my only paradise. I kinda hate the way my life is now not because of me being tied down by the kids but how I have to just live with the life as it is now instead of making them more happening. But on a side note, how happening can I make them to be without Hubby enjoying it with us?

虽然上个星期天只能出来吃个早餐我也满意了。这大概两个月不是在义顺就是在三吧旺。很闷！

Well, the place that we went to last Sunday is actually a cookery school + cafe + farmer's market (on saturday) with some nice little shops surrounding them. On that particular Sunday, it seems to be so quiet. But after talking to the waiters, I found out that they actually don't open on Sundays for more than 2 years until recently. I believe that not many people knew about this else I think it will be more crowded than it is.

上个星期天去的地方其实是个烹饪学校＋餐厅＋周末巴刹。有点像在美国的Farmer's market 一样。那天去的时候不是很多人因为也是他们有2年不在周日营业了。最近在营业或许是这样所以不是很多人晓得。

We managed to reach them for the breakfast and surprisingly, they are not bad at all.

那里的早餐还满好吃的。

Photo credit to http://www.gowithbo.info

My egg pacifico

His Pantry breakfast set

She discovered the fun of trampoline and we had a good time there. Just me and her sweating away for about half an hour or so on this thing.

她发现其实蹦床还很好玩。我跟她玩了有差不多半小时。

Keira all wet and sweaty after trampoline fun

玩了整身汗

My favorite photo of the day

我最喜欢的照片

Mummy

2011-03-09T21:53:00.001+08:00

My mum had a very bad fall just before I went to the states. The doc told her she can opt out from the op and go with the physiotherapy. But that apparently did not really go very well. She don't really go for the therapy religiously and it doesn't help when she had another minor fall just last month.

She said the doc asked her to go for the op this time when she went to visit him a few days ago but she has many concerns like how she have to recuperate for a year or so and continue with physiotherapy to recover, how she won't be able to do houseworks and do the cooking, how she can't help out dad with his work and taking care of the kids. She is just plain stubborn even though I told her things will work out in the end and told her to go for it and not worry so much.

I am already going to enroll Keira into childcare and worse comes to worst, I will put Kerri in infant care or with a nanny (if I can find one) or we will hire a maid. Financial wise will definitely put a strain but these kind of things are unavoidable. I really wish the childcare center can be ready soon as that means I can go out looking for jobs actively instead of staying at home. I want to do something for the family.

Lately, she seems to understand that I am under stress and will volunteer to help out to look after Keira occasionally. And when I told her I can cope with them at home, she will be worrying that I will not be eating well and will drop by my place with lunch/dinner. I cannot be anymore grateful. Just like last night for example, for no reason, Kerri actually cried for an hour or so. No she's not colicky and I do not know what was wrong with her. My mum can actually took a cab in the night and came over to help me out even though I said it's okay I can do it. That's the way she behave. Always worrying for others all the time.

Each time she help me out, I will tell myself to be a stronger person. I cannot rely on her all the time. And since I can managed to do that while in the States without the help of the family, I believe I can do it here too. She's not getting any younger and with her state of health, I really hope she can go for the op soon instead of dragging it any longer. I will keep persuading her nevertheless.

Kerri @ 5 weeks old. 琦媛@5周大

2011-03-04T23:14:00.000+08:00

I have missed posting of her 4 weeks old development. Simply does not have the time to blog. It's been crazy since hubby returned to work. And after coping alone for a week plus, I concluded it's by far my biggest challenge. But I will not be defeated so easily.

这过去的一个多礼拜好忙没什么空记录琦媛的成长过程。坤仔会去工作了。一个人应付真是很大的挑战。

So we went for her 4-6 weeks well baby checkup at the polyclinic on Monday. She's weighing 3.8kg. Height and weight at 50% percentile which is considered normal. My baby is really growing fast considering she's born a bit of underweight.

星期一带琦媛去做定期检查。现在的体重是3。8kg。体重和身高都算正常。我感到欣慰毕竟她出生的时候是算满瘦小的。

Her feeding is apart 3 hours apart now and lately she's been making some coo-ing sound which are just too cute. It's a pity I cannot manage to record them down.
现在的她每3小时大概就得喝奶。这几天她开始会发出一些很可爱的声音。可惜没来得及录下来。
Ok now back to pumping....
好了。要开始挤奶了。。。。

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Stillness

2011-02-16T04:18:00.001+08:00

Awake at this insane hour or rather it doesn't seem to be that insane considering you have a newborn at home. Had fed her, changed diaper and now drinking my hot milo and bread. Preparing on the pumping journey. I was standing on the balcony a while ago when I saw a very beautiful round misty looking moon smiling back at me. It's been ages since I really had a moment like that.

And then....

I spotted 4 bangalahs playing football downstairs. How exciting is their life.

Keira @ 19 months old & Kerri @ 3 weeks old

2011-02-15T09:59:00.000+08:00

I realized Keira is beginning to learn how to talk in sentences. Well, not exactly proper full sentences with correct pronunciation but more like all the words are being mumbled together. The very first sentence that she can say is actually 'I love you' quite some time now. And recently, we thought we have been hearing her saying 'I don't want' and 'How are you'. She knows how to say 'No' when she doesn't want or do things that we would want her to. Her way of asking for Ribena drink is 'Mina'. And she knows how to ask for bread.

慢慢发觉琦璇开始在学讲句子。不是很清楚可是你能大概知道她是在说什么。

Lately, she's very into her bedtime stories again. She will want me to re-read the books many times to her before she agrees to sleep. And it's getting a bit over when she will wake up in the wee hours asking for her books. She only goes back to sleep when I ignored her constant requests. And her books will follow her into the bathroom in the morning whenever she's doing her potty.

最近她又很爱听故事。每晚一定要我读给她听不是一次两次而是一只在重复。早上要上厕所的时候也要读。真的拿她没办法。

She sort of know her shapes and identify them and very often when we are taking the lift especially, she likes to count the levels with me although she don't say out but the sound she makes seem like she knows her numbers. She is also improving in her dance steps now. Getting more steady and with more 'patterns' of course. She is such a darling sometime that you couldn't help but want to give her a bite on her cheeks.

她也能分辨型状和数字。跳舞也比较稳了。

I believe sending her to childcare will be a good choice for her to learn more things and learn to be more independent.

我相信送她到育儿能激发她的潜能。也能学到新的东西。

So far Kerri's rashes is clearing up and I'm so glad to see that. Don't be deceived by her small being but she is quite a loud baby. Even louder than Keira and we believe someday Keira will be bullied by her. Her character is rather strong but otherwise, she's quite a good baby. I begin to see some differences of her appearance as compared to when she was just a new baby. My mum said she resembled more like a boy. I can't really tell though. But I can say she definitely has her daddy's nose and his eyes. And she really smell good all the time, did I ever mention that?

妹妹的皮肤开始好转了。我很高兴。别看她个子小小哭声还满大声。我觉得以后可能是她欺负姐姐。我也慢慢觉得她得外貌又在开始变了。真得觉得她得眼和鼻子像坤仔。