DNA Tan

2011-12-12T12:59:00.003+08:00

The baby who weigh 20 kilos

Statistics at a glance:

Donovan: 5 years old - 21.3kg

Dominus: 4 years old - 14.5kg

Doreitius: 2 years old - 19.9kg (!!!!!!)

Our littlest baby seemed to be the 'biggest' in mass. Months ago, we tend to attract attention from waiters and fellow shoppers claiming that Domi and Rei are twins, which made Domi a little upset since he is the Gor Gor. However of late, many have mistaken for Rei to be the Gor Gor instead of Domi. Well, it wasn't without rhyme or reason, since Rei is much bigger in size while Domi only surpass in height by a couple of cm. Many have been asking what did we feed the little gentle giant. Well, he is undeniably a carbo lover. Rice, noodles, bread are among his favourites. A classic example of eating habits that shaped their 'shapes' is, when given a hotdog bread, Domi would only go for the hotdog and giving Rei the bread, who in turn exchanged it for his hotdog willingly. As the saying goes, 'You are what you eat', and so Rei looks so much like the 'bread', fluffy and big while Domi is lean like the hotdog. But it is precisely because of Rei's chubby build that won him many favourable attention from the aunties and uncles when we bring him out.

2011-12-07T10:24:00.002+08:00

When there is nowhere else to air my most honest opinions, I do it here.

A taxi driver may say he has seen people from all walks of life, so does an insurance practitioner like me. However, I see what's beneath the nice facades that many donned as a survival strategy. I was introduced into this financial protection business with a mission to make sure those whom I am concerned with are protected against my competitors; death, critical illnesses, disability and old age. However, I was also warned that this is a lonely business, whereby many a times, practitioners like myself see the brutal reality of people around us, whom we thought were genuinely nice, but are in fact ........... (lost for words)

"If you have many golden geese that lay golden eggs, and you can sell them to people you see. Who will you first sell them to? To people you know or to complete strangers?" Naturally, most will reply that they'll share it with people they know so that they can benefit their loved ones first before sharing it with unrelated strangers. Insurance is exactly the golden goose that puts dollars and cents to any family who needs it. If every wife knows what every widow knew, then more husbands can be adequately insured. If anyone in your family is sick or unfortunately has passed on, there are 4 main sources of future income; relatives, friends, charity and insurance. Which do you prefer? Insurance benefits means not having to beg, not having to rely on charity, not having to sell off your assets, not having to send your remaining spouse to work and not having to downgrade your current lifestyle. But why am I not given a chance to share the golden geese?

Tragically, just a year into this business, I can already see who are the 'relatives' who hangs around for the sole reason that the elderly are still breathing and friends who can only share good times, free meals, pay only lip service and take you for a ride but disappear the minute I offer them the 'parachute' to protect them from financial distress. Seriously, life insurance is like a parachute; if you need it and DON'T have it, you are NEVER going to need it again. When would most people start thinking that they need insurance? Well, when they need it, and can no longer buy it. Most people misunderstand that insurance is a luxury product, an added obligation. But it is in fact the best way to meet the obligations that we already have.

It is in such difficult times that I see the truest of my job and I am still grateful that I am here. Though I 'lose' heart and friends along the journey, I still have the strong conviction to be there for them long before they have a chance to appreciate what I do for them. Lastly, to all who stayed strong with me, I love all of you.

2011-11-28T14:59:00.006+08:00

Donovan's Accident

As I always say, accidents just need 1 second to happen, and it did, right before our eyes. It was a casual Monday evening where everyone was home. The boys were monkeying around as usual, and Donovan was practising his USUAL stunts of leaping off the bed. It wasn't the first time he did it, and it wasn't the first time we warned him against doing it as we wouldn't want the little ones to mimick after him, let alone have an accident happen. But that one last jump sealed the fate when his eyelid was caught in the hook of Rei's sarong cradle and I was jolted to awareness by his sudden shriek. My helper and I bolted to his rescue and as we were helpless as we didn't know which was the best rescue strategy to minimise Donovan's pain. Luckily, Daddy was around to calm the situation and release Donovan from the hook (I don't know how...)

We then rushed to Mt Alvernia and probably due to the shock, Donovan was surprisingly calm. I was instead the one who sobbed the loudest. As the injury was very close to the eye, and we weren't sure of where the exact injury was, I couldn't hep but be entertaining thoughts of the worst.

When the nurses were cleaning his wounds, it was totally unbearable to look at the mess of blood and flesh. The recount to the many channels of medical workers made it worse for me. The medical officer then decided that it was probably better for a Plastic Surgeon to handle the wound as it will minimise any scarring. I mean, scarring is definite, but a plastic surgeon can make it less painful or obvious.

We were pleasantly surprised to see the plastic surgeon Dr JJ Chua cause he resembled Terence Peh Peh a lot!! And he was able to make Donovan like him immediately and executing the stitching wasn't that much of a struggle. Donovan's only screams came when the surgeon administered the 4 jabs of anasthetic. And after it took effect, Donovan could chat with the doctor while the surgeon is stitching! Finally after the ordeal is over and the bandage was secured, Mummy felt her energies draining from her body and simply collapsed on the floor. A panicky Donovan quickly propped up from the bed to see where Mummy was. Oops, on the floor la.... Embarrassing.

And once we were out from the surgical room, Donovan was up and about.... again.....

Before the stitching...

After the stitching
Admitted into the ward at about 10pm
His first question was "Where's the TV"

Breakfast!!

Donovan can be discharged!!

Follow-up after one week.

That's the surgeon who looks like Terence Peh Peh!

2011-10-27T17:46:00.002+08:00

Halloween Fun!!

Passed by NTUC and I saw this very cute pumpkin with a funny expression on its face with ready DIY Paint. Thought the boys would like to paint on it to change their perception of the usually eerie and frightful Halloween. True enough, they enjoyed painting and making a mess out of it. At least they aren't so frightened about the Halloween Festival anymore, since their concept of Halloween has always been the monster masks and skulls...

2011-10-25T15:01:00.003+08:00

Women and mothers

A little boy asked his mother, "Why are you crying?" "Because Im a woman", replied his mother. "I don't understand" he said. His mother replied," You never will".

Later, the little boy asked his father, "Why does Mummy seem to cry for no reason?" "All women cry for no reason", was all his father could say. The little boy grew up and became a man, still wondering why women cry for no reason.

Finally, he decided to put in a call to GOD. So when God answered, hte asked," Why do women cry so easily?" God said," When I made women, she had to be special. I made her shoulders strong enough to carry the weight of the world, yet gentle enough to give comfort. I gave her an inner strength to endure childbirth and the rejection that many times comes from her children. I gave her a hardness that allows her to keep going when everyone else gives up, and take care of her family through sickness and fatigue without complaining. I gave her the sensitivity to ove her children under all circumstances, even when her child has hurt her very badly."

"I gave her strength to carry her husband through his faults and fashioned her from his rib to protect his heart. I gave her wisdom to know that a good husband never hurts his wife, but sometimes tests her strengths and her resolve to stand beside him unfalteringly. And finally, I gave her a tear to shed. This is hers exclusively to use whenever it is needed."

"You see my son," said God, "The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure she carries, or the way she comes her hair. The beauty of a woman must be seen through her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart-the place where love resides."

2011-10-25T14:25:00.003+08:00

Birthday celebrations with family!

After a week of fringe celebration with hubby, friends and colleagues, we had a more traditional celebration with my in-laws. Everyone in the family was present, except for Tat Ming who is understudying in Alabama.

2011-10-25T11:53:00.005+08:00

Birthday Celebration continues with friends and colleagues!

I am indeed blessed with nice colleagues and friends who went the extra mile to make my birthday a special one.

Birthday home celebration - Online Slideshow Creator

2011-10-25T11:39:00.002+08:00

Mummy turns 30!!
Celebration with Daddy @ MBS

MBS 2011 - Online Slideshow Creator

2011-10-25T10:34:00.002+08:00

How can a baby sleep like that?
Hahahaha.....

2011-08-08T18:26:00.002+08:00

Never ask a spouse if there is already enough insurance;
Ask a widow or widower.

How true. But how many of us actually want it to happen to us? How many of us want to make true of the statement, by proving that they do not need that much insurance until they pay the price of losing a spouse, seriously? Let me share a story with you.

Once, there was an insurance agent who travelled miles to get to his appointment with a businessmen, hoping to sell him some form of insurance. The businessman was impressed and wanted to commit to protecting his family in case he is unable to provide for the family anymore. When he was about to sign the papers and seal the deal, his wife came home with their only son. The wife scrutinised the agent like he was some dirty rat and asked for him to repeat his sales pitch. Unimpressed, she spoke to the husband and the agent (indirectly)," Dear, do you know how much food I can put on the table, the number of enrichment classes our son can benefit from and the more exotic holidays we can afford, with this money?" And so, the agent left, in disappointment.

2 years on, the agent came across the obituary, and saw the picture of that same businessman whom he travelled miles to visit. He packed his suitcase, and travelled miles again, this time to his funeral. There, he saw the businessman's widow and son. He overheard the widow's sobs and her words to the child," Daddy has left us, with many debts and bills. Only GOD can save us now."

The agent could no longer hold back his emotions and walked towards the pair of sorrowful shadows. He handed them a big cheque of insurance payout and explained that the businessman returned and bought those policies after all. The widow was left speechless after the agent bade farewell. When the agent walked away, he could hear the child asking his Mummy," Mummy, so is he GOD?"

Many people wish to go to heaven, until they realise that the price they have to pay is DEATH. Many people claimed that they love their families, but hesitate to commit in real terms. Yet my job is to get ahead to the people whom I'm concerned with, before death, disability, critical illnesses and old age do. However, that'll mean that I have to constantly endure with rejections, nasty remarks, sarcasm, excuses and lies. Well, perhaps 99% of the people aren't at all thankful, until they become the 1%, who benefited from it, which also means they'll have to first pay for the price of losing a loved one. Still, my mission is to take away their financial burden, even though I can't take away their emotional or physical one.

2011-08-08T11:21:00.002+08:00

Donovan's Art Works

Mummy can't draw, and thus felt guilty whenever she sees the boys' distasteful creations. Therefore scouted around for art classes to expose them. Donovan is the only one old enough to attend, while Dominus have to wait till next year. Mummy was rather pleased with the results so far. Donovan enjoys and looks forward to the classes, partly because of the fun-loving teacher, Esther.

Owl and owlet

Peacock. Don chose warm colours,

but Mummy prefers brighter colours.

But its about personal expression

Snails. The way Don chose his colours,

his teacher thought it was raining too heavily

and the snail couldnt get home. Hahahaha.

Mummy liked this one best! Bright colours!

2011-08-08T10:52:00.004+08:00

Jubilate July! Where all the birthdays take place!

July is a joyful month, where we have birthday celebrations one after another. The first to kick off is Doreitius! He chose a Buzz Lightyear cake for himself, and knowing that its his favourite cartoon character, Mummy bought a Buzz Lightyear plush toy for him, which he hugs in bed every night.

A few days later, we celebrated Daddy, Donovan and Uncle Terence's birthday with the family's favourite durian cake from Goodwood Park Hotel. It was yummy! The boys were excited with the presents and even Dominus, whose birthday is nowhere near July, had one too! Donovan was so excited with his presents that he stayed up and assembled the action figurine with droopy eyes.

On 20th July, Donovan had a mini celebration in school with his classmates. He picked out a Lightning McQueen cake and wore his superman cape over his school uniform to school. After school, Daddy and Mummy spent some individual time with him over lunch at Mozza Pizzeria at MBS followed by a movie Transformers 3 at Illuma. Daddy and Mummy spent some couple time over steamboat and KTV too! Jubilate July indeed!

2011-07-31T17:28:00.005+08:00

When it happens to you......

Had a bad scare last week. Hubby was referred to National NeuroScience Institute at TTSH after a feedback to the SAF MO after feeling numbness in his left arm a couple of months ago. That sparked a concern and he managed to 'jump the queue' at national level to squeeze in an appointment within a week. Saw a regular neuro doctor at NNI who conducted some tests, requiring him to follow some actions and then decide if there's anything wrong with him. Early diagnosis was, suspected mild stroke. Seriously, wasn't something as serious as that supposed to happen to someone else? Or we thought so....

More specific tests and scans were recommended and ordered, but being a restructured hospital for the general public, we have to queue for all the tests, namely ultrasound, MRI, ECG, blood tests and lastly, a concluding consultation with the stroke specialist. Okay, fine. That was already frightening enough. To top that, the mentioned tests were scheduled a month after each other, having the final consultation with the stroke specialist in October. Gosh, must we spend the next few months in pure anxiety?

That's when the panic-stricken wife dashes to the washroom for a good cry. 2 thoughts hit me hard. Firstly, are we going to lose our physical/emotional support? Secondly, the financial support? It then dawn on me that hubby doesn't have enough life insurance to allow us to sustain our current lifestyle if he were to one day, if God forbids, leave us before the children are independent.

We didn't want to be trapped in the suspense, which I think is killing me slowly and painfully, so we decided to admit hubby into Mount Alvernia, where we can buy our 'peace of mind' overnight. Tests were run and scans were done. Waiting for the results proved to be harder than going through the tests. Seriously, I cannot help but worry about issues over and above hubby's condition. True that I want him to be healthy, get discharged in the pinkest of health and continue taking care of us, but what if he doesn't? What if the worst happens, that he'll leave us sooner than enough? What if he doesn't leave us soon enough? Okay, this is pure evil, but the thought of the mountains of bills, kids to juggle, ailed spouse to take care and still have to worry about bringing back enough bacon for all the above, freaked me out. Mothers are supposed to be the strongest anchor, but perhaps I'm not that strong.

Luckily, hubby cleared all tests and his condition was simple a 'transient' one, whereby there is a temporary blockage of the arteries which cause temporary weakness in the hand. This condition does not lead to anything more major but perhaps needing to watch his diet from now on. Phew! This episode gave us a higher level of understanding of the importance of each other, a deeper appreciation of life insurance and a more dedicated mission to spreading the importance of being healthy and getting enough life insurance to protect against the uncertainties.

This is the 'Aunty' part of my entry, where I hear from people about different concoctions of drinks that'll improve health and lower cholesterol. And I'll spare no means to keep my hubby healthy and strong, so that he can continue being the physical, emotional and financial support for us.

2011-07-25T00:24:00.002+08:00

Rei turns 2!

2011-07-25T00:22:00.001+08:00

Donovan turns 5!

2011-07-16T09:12:00.002+08:00

GE Women's Run

Okay, it's pretty amazing that Mummy even dared to sign up for this in the first place. However, the 5km baby marathon didn't seem as daunting as Mummy imagined. Though the timing which Mummy clocked was atrociously lousy, but it spells room for improvement isn't it? And running alongside teammates made the battle easier to conquer.

Moral support!

2011-07-16T09:09:00.002+08:00

Friends for life!

Dominus and Chloe

Boys with Doyston

2011-07-16T09:03:00.002+08:00

Men @ Work!

Ah-ma bought this toy set for Donovan's 5th birthday and he couldn't contain his excitement and demanded that Daddy open it up and work on it. This builder's set is very realistic with the appropriate tools and the timbre-coloured Styrofoam that resembles wooden planks. So under the apprenticeship of Daddy, they learnt to saw, file, assemble and nail.

2011-07-16T09:01:00.001+08:00

Happy Father's Day!

Simple dinner to bring everyone together is indeed to warmest way to celebrate Father's Day. Had the presence of my daddy, my kids' daddy and my mum's daddy. Woo-hoo!

2011-07-16T08:57:00.002+08:00

Hubby's new image

Hubby had been very much bothered by his residing hairline and had more than once toyed with the idea of shaving bald so that it'll look deliberate and stylo. True enough, he went to the barber while Mummy was at work and completed the deed, without giving Mummy time to react or object. Well, he looked kind of macho now... haha....

2011-07-16T08:51:00.002+08:00

Jubilate June Holidays!

It's Donovan's first major school holiday. Mummy decided that she should spend more individual time with this boy who is beginning to have a mind of his own. Brought him to many places and had many bonding activities! Work was put aside definitely, but revisited just a week before school reopens again. Of course, Don's elated to return to school eventually.

2011-05-20T08:37:00.003+08:00

Teaching beyond books

Came across a post on Facebook by an ex-student's Mum. The message that was written on the exam paper struck a heavy chord in me. This student was predominantly a gymnast more than a student, considering her dedication and long hours of training on a daily basis. Frequent competitions also meant that her time for rest and studies is greatly reduced. Despite the immense pressure from her peers, she worked very hard to fight for time to study, often ended up in tears. But was more commendable was that she has the fighting spirit in her to ride against the current and finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.

It dawned on me that the battle for academic excellence is actually secondary to having a strong fighting spirit. The courage to persevere and the spirit of not giving up is primary to achieving success in life. In sports, academics and eventually working in the society, we need this fighting spirit to see us through in all different phases of our life.

2011-05-11T13:15:00.000+08:00

My littlest baby with the most vibrant smile!

2011-05-11T13:11:00.002+08:00

Jude turns one!

My lovely little nephew has turned one recently! Celebrated his birthday at Dragon Phoenix restaurant with a huge number 1 cake with a picture of a tiger cub! (cause he's born in the year of the tiger)

2011-05-11T12:57:00.003+08:00

Mother's Day 2011

It is getting increasingly tough to bring mummy out for Mother's Day dinner these recent years as everyone else seemed to be doing likewise. Restaurants will be fully packed with overwhelming crowd that slows down the speed of waiters and prolong our waiting time for food. So Mummy decided to hand make something that is more personal and meaningful for Nai Nai and Ah-ma, something that they can keep forever.

2011-05-05T10:07:00.011+08:00

HAPPY MOTHER's DAY

Dear Mummy Judy, Mummy Anna, Mummy Geok Bee...

Really grateful for all the hard work, patience, everything......... I Love You all :")

2011-03-30T11:52:00.007+08:00

Chloe Tay and my Domi Domi and his little 'girlfriend' Chloe are getting increasingly close to each other. Not only do they see each other every weekday, we recently discovered that Chloe's sister and Donovan attends the same enrichment class every Friday at the same timing. Meaning, while waiting for their lessons to end, Domi and Chloe will have a chance to meet and play with one another like the pictures below. Chloe is always very happy to see Domi, and would not hide her joy in seeing Domi. She would also proudly declare that Domi is her best friend! Chloe's domestic helper once told us that she never fails to mention about Domi everyday at home and she even improvised a tune with the lyrics, "I love Domi...." Hahaha.... So cute. Domi on the other hand is more shy and reserved. His expression is always sheepish in the initial moments of seeing Chloe and takes longer to warm up. Afterwhich, they'll play like long time friends and its really heartwarming to see the 2 playmates enjoying each other's company.

2011-03-24T11:03:00.003+08:00

My sons, my sons.

It is not difficult to see myself in all of my 3 darlings. Though all 3 of them are 'manufactured' from the same production line, they certainly exhibit different traits, which coincidentally originated from me. Well, sometimes I really wonder are these 'qualities' are necessarily good traits or not.

Donovan is an active volcano, erupting every other minute over small issues. Haha, very me. He also have frequent episodes of nose-bleeding that happens without any trigger, like when I was little. Probably something less observable, he tucks his arm under the pillow when he sleeps. Just like me.

Dominus on the other hand, has personality more like Daddy, endearing and always maintaining a facade of discipline and tranquility. Yet Mummy can still identify something coming from her. Leg cramps. Well, its not exactly a trait but more of a physical ailment. Mummy used to have frequent and multiple cramps in the curve of her feet when she was young. Dominus too, and the attacks seem to happen only in the night which keeps him whining through the night and Mummy massaging him till the nerves are calmed.

Doreitius, well, its all in the face. Nobody can possible mistake him for somebody else's child. He is a mini-Mummy, though he's a boy and he was often mistaken for a girl because of those big eyes.

2011-03-14T18:22:00.004+08:00

Malacca and Genting trip 2011

It had been a long time since Mummy and Daddy visited Malaysia. The previous occasion was to Johor's Taman Sentosa for the Wedding Photoshoot and passing by that cluster of shophouses brings back many fond memories. Besides holidaying in these 2 towns, Mummy and Grandma visited some relatives too. They were all in awe of Mummy who brought 3 little ones in tow because the last time they saw her was at her wedding. Coindentally, a Granduncle and another Grandaunt both had 3 boys followed by a youngest daughter. Trust me, Mummy inherited many 'secret methods' on how to conceive a daughter, like praying to gods and doing the deed in broad daylight. (Slap forehead!!)

The boys enjoyed Genting highlands particularly as the weather was literally a breeze and there were many games and rides which they can play repeatedly. Just imagine they could run round the indoor and outdoor amusement park without perspiring, woohoo! Simply awesome, cause in the humid sunny island of Singapore, their heads are usually very smelly.

2011-03-11T20:43:00.002+08:00

Accidents only need 1 second to happen

Was spending my usual Saturday mornings in Clarke Quay Central at Ya Kun Coffee shop while waiting for Donovan to finish his class when I was near this. The glass panel on the 2nd level of the shopping mall suddenly gave way to pressure and shattered. Luckily, there was no passers-by when it happened. I was trying to break open my half-boiled egg (Don't ask me why I have to open them myself.....) when I heard a loud sound, can't decide whether its a crash or a bang. The vendors of Ya Kun then gasped and pointed outside and I witnessed the scene below.

Frankly, you need to be at the scene to be able to feel what a close shave it was. Accidents happen everywhere, and that is why accident policies are very important. Seriously, I've not sold a single accident policy before, and I'll make sure I'll preach it from now on, cause a single mishap and rob us of our livelihood and even cost us our lives. Get a peace of mind.

2011-03-02T21:18:00.002+08:00

Happy bath times!

Yeah, motherhood has gotten easier. The boys would dine together, bathe together, watch TV together, pillow-fight together, laugh together and cry together. Bathing together means they get to play water together and bond. Besides saving time, Mummy saves on water bills too! Nice to capture such happy moments.

2011-03-02T21:12:00.002+08:00

Lightning McQueen @ Clarke Quay Central

Mummy and the boys would always get some bonding time every Saturday morning at Clarke Quay while Donovan attends class at Media Academy. Their routine always starts at Ya Kun Coffee with a cup of Teh with 2 runny eggs. On days when Domi didn't request to follow, Mummy would get to jog around Singapore River while waiting and that's really therapeutic!

Last Saturday, we saw the model car of Lightning McQueen and the boys were thrilled to see it and took turns to take photographs with it.

2011-02-22T22:37:00.002+08:00

Doreitius' Day One in CHERIE HEARTS SCHOOL

Time really flies. My littlest baby is ready for Child Care Cantre. Since birth, Rei hadn't been the easiest baby to babysit, in fact he is more demanding than 5 babies put together (seriously). Therefore, we had been hesitant about putting him in child care for fear of scaring away his teachers, (But I think we really frightened one away, who tendered her resignation one month before Rei was due to be enrolled... Haha....)

Just a mere 6-hour observation and being with Rei to help ease him into routine, thoroughly zapped Mummy of all her energy. The opportunity to follow Rei into his childcare centre gave Mummy an insight into how demanding yet unappreciated a teacher's job can be. 6 teachers versus 40 kids (at least), with all sorts of requests, accidents, poo-without-warnings, refusal to eat, eat too messily, excessive crying and whining and the list goes on. On top of that, they have to deliver their lessons while keeping at the back of their heads which kid has which form of allergies, which parent had filled up the medicine administration form, which kids are in the process of toilet-training and having to constantly monitor if they need to pass urine and above all, keep all the kids alive and themselves sane. Wow, quite a feat isn't it? Yet the highlight of their day is usually dampened with complaints from parents who never seemed to understand that there are other life forms in the centre apart from their own kids. Talk about self-centeredness, I think it all started from home.

Well, even after knowing that sending my boys to childcare takes up a portion of my paycheck yet they only receive a fraction of 'tender loving care', I still believe that they stand to gain more than being a couch potato at home. In the presence of peers, they learn to share, compromise, socialise, negotiate, accept, tolerate, resolute, communicate and most importantly, survival skills. These are essential skills which the near perfect home environment coupled with new age over-nurturing parents are unable to equip the children with, and hence, sending them to schools is inevitable. So the trick is, close one eye, and not be too particular over small matters. This way, teachers are happy, we are happier and our kids are happiest. And that's what matters most isn't it?

At the playground outside school
Exploring his classroom

Playing by himself

Biting his bottle and playing (his usual style)

Finally knocked out.

2011-02-20T23:27:00.004+08:00

New Favourites!

Mummy came across some interesting story books by Dr Seuss from Borders last Christmas and the y have been a hit with the boys since. The books are brightly coloured and well-illustrated, written with tuneful rhymes and silly ideas and the boys simply adore them. Mummy too, liked the books as the string of words are really lyrical on the tongue. Choosing books is difficult, choosing the right books is a feat. And choosing books that your kids will beg you to read them every night is the ultimate goal of every mum, I bet.

This one is perfect for Don as he is beginning to

learn letter sounds and blending sounds.
Simple and 'bite-size' for beginner readers.

Domi loved this, for its crazy idea of a fish growing too big!

See the BIG fish?

The non-fiction series.... All about whales...

The facts being nicely illustrated.

2011-02-20T23:09:00.005+08:00

Brothers' milking times

It's soon going to be 5 years since Mummy became a Mummy. Going through the numerous pages of folders of pictures taken over the last 5 years brought back many sweet memories of the boys' growing up phase. It is easy to forget the nightmar-ish days/months when Donovan and Rei had colic, with Mummy totally zapped and helpless and Daddy trying his best to calm both mother and sons. It is definitely not an easy journey but definitely a rewarding one.

2011-02-08T10:35:00.003+08:00

Lunar New Year 2011

Its going to be a good year for those born in the year of the rooster (Mummy and Nai Nai) and an even greater year for those born in the year of the dragon (Daddy and Yeh Yeh). This New Year was a year of surprises and reunions. Met up with many friends and relatives whom were 'missing in action' for a while and its really nice to catch up after so many years.

2011-01-20T11:14:00.001+08:00

Dominus' 3rd Birthday

2011-01-17T20:01:00.003+08:00

Royal Carribbean Cruise with Great Eastern

Daddy and Mummy went on a cruise retreat with their colleagues from Great Eastern on the Royal Carribbean. Daddy had never been on any cruise while Mummy had been on Star Virgo about 10 years ago. This trip was an exciting one since its Daddy's virgin cruise and they'll be leaving behind the boys in the care of Grandma. The pre-cruise introduction about this vessel sent some posh messages about extravagance of this holiday. Everything on board is transacted in USD, food fare trumpets fine dining and demands formal wear and they even practise American tipping, yes, in USD too. The fine dining proved to be an elaborate affair and we had a whale of a time stuffing expensive food into our tummies like some hungry souls. Mummy who don't usually drink, had the most number of wines she had on board than she ever did in her whole lifetime. Not a very nice feeling to be constantly drank though, as it came to a point where she wasn't sure was she really drunk, or was the sea too choppy.
Net gain from this cruise? 3 extra kilos on Mummy's hips.

2011-01-17T11:07:00.003+08:00

Dominus' Birthday Present from Nai-Nai!
Its Thomas the Train sling pouch.

See my lovely pouch?

Attention-seeking baby

2011-01-12T16:09:00.002+08:00

Happy Birthday Dominus (Part 2)

Mummy ordered Dominus' favourite Barney cake for him to celebrate his birthday at Cherie Hearts. The huge 'D' with the pop up Barney wowed Domi as well as Donovan, who tag along to visit his friends and teachers.

2011-01-11T23:23:00.002+08:00

Happy Birthday Dominus! (Part 1)

The boys had been bugging us about wanting to visit Universal Studios after they saw the pictures of Mummy and Daddy taken with their favourites characters. So as Dominus turns 3, we took the opportunity to bring them there. The day started with a tight drizzle that almost made us change our minds but shortly after we arrived at Resort World Sentosa, the rain stopped. The boys enjoyed themselves thoroughly with the photo-taking while Grandma, Granny and Jerrimie were thrilled with the rides. Dominus was allowed into most rides as he had passed the minimum height, but he was frightened by the heights and sharp turns of some rides. Yet a pretty frightened Mummy still has to pretend to be brave and console him while having cold feet herself. After 5 hours of walking, queuing, screaming and photo-taking, we went home in the rain and the boys fell asleep on the journey home.

2011-01-04T21:09:00.001+08:00

Donovan's Day One @ PAP

Woke up earlier than usual to get Donovan ready for school. Bathed Donovan before helping him put on his neatly pressed uniform and his brand new white school shoes too. Gave him some cookies while trying to prep talk him a little about 'being nice' to his new friends and some manners too. Perhaps because its the first day of school, it was rather messy as the impatient parents waited outside the school. Anxious parents standing in front of the windows refusing to budge and the frustration was heightened by the cries of students who were unwilling to return to school. Donovan introduced himself loudly and soon showed his 'true colours'. He sat at the back and happened to spot a bug and he announced it to his class, which distracted an entire class of curious faces, leaving the teacher with no choice but to clear the bug away before she could continue lesson. Well, that's my son.

2011-01-03T21:59:00.003+08:00

Xmas family gathering 2010

Well, it's just a simple gathering for the family this year as it is going to be a feat bringing the 3 boys anywhere. This year we have a new addition to the family's celebration, and that's cousin Baby Jude! Likewise past years, the boys are showered with presents and while they were happily unwrapping, Mummy was busy picking up the wrappers.

2010-12-10T19:26:00.006+08:00

Universal Studios

Our previous visit to Universal Studios was during our honeymoon at California in 2005. 5 years later on this day, we reminiscence with the newly built theme park in Resort World Sentosa. It was indeed the right move to scout this place without the kids in tow as they would have been running wild, getting too impatient for the queues and we'll be too pre-occupied with baby-sitting than to enjoy the sight-seeing and rides. Afterall, its our anniversary right?

2010-12-10T17:33:00.005+08:00

Death happens everyday to someone, and someday to everyone.

I was browsing FB early in the morning as usual and I saw a posting that saddened me. An ex-colleague who just delivered her 2nd baby boy 2 months ago, announced the sudden demise of her newborn. Since birth, this baby boy had never left the ICU and was scheduled for immediate operation to save his life. Since gestation, he was found to have a hole in his heart and both parents were sort of mentally prepared for what will come post delivery. Still, no matter how much a mother thinks she's ready, it's always a hard fact to stomach when it comes to losing your child. When I think of this, and comparing it with my situation, I think my children have a right to be naughty, and even notorious at times, since by simply being alive is a gift.

Being in the LIFE INSURANCE business means I'm more exposed to accidents and death cases. Luckily, I have not had any first hand experience in handling claims for family and friends. However, it doesn't mean it is not going to happen someday. The mission here is therefore to get ahead of my family and friends before our common enermies do. By common enermies, I refer to disabilities, illness, old age and death.

I have, in my ignorance, emailed this ex-colleague about getting insurance for her newborn. There was no response from her and so I thought she may have someone else handling it for her. Didn't want to behave like a pesk or a hard-sell salesman, I decided to let go of my pursuit. Then news of the baby's constant hospitalisation and his eventual passing forced me to reflect if I could have done something before it happened. Probably I could have been more professionally persistent? Perhaps I could have taken initiative to visit the baby? Perhaps I could thicken my skin and hang around them to educate them about the importance of health and life insurance and probably even when I cannot take care of their emotional burden, I can take care of their financial burden from the months of medical and surgical bills.

It is never easy going through 40 weeks of anticipation of a new life. And its even harder to discharge with a death certificate instead of a bundle of joy. But Im sure life is still beautiful for people who met with obstacles to pick up and move on. Life is vulnerable, life is precious, life is great.

2010-12-06T13:46:00.010+08:00

Port Dickson getaway

This is our first family road trip to Malaysia (without Rei). Aunt Jane suggested driving up to Port Dickson's Legend Water Chalet for a rest and relax holiday and Mummy rallied Aunt Vivian and Aunt Joaquim's family to come along. Prior to the trip, Mummy had prep the boys for what they should expect from this trip; the long distance driving, the water features and some friends to play with. However, things still cropped up along the journey. Sigh.

Barely an hour into the journey, Domi said he wanted to poo. Having worn diapers for him, Mummy thought he could pass motion in his diaper and after which Mummy could change him into a fresh one. But Domi said he wants to poo in a toilet bowl! And he requested for the toilet bowl from our home! And he wouldn't quit nagging. So Mummy, being "innovative", sat Domi on top and inbetween of her legs, with a plastic bag cushioned with tissue papers inside, and started conditioning him to poo. After several tries, Domi still refused to pass motion in this manner and decided to hold until we reach the first rest station. Then they started pigging out and by the time we reached our destination, more than half of the tit-bits we brought along were wiped out.

The boys liked the water chalet the moment we set foot on it and they were thrilled by the see-through water panel. It was indeed a rather different type of holiday as shopping and sight-seeing were kept minimal. Most activities were centred within the hotel itself though we went to visit the Ostrich Farm on Day 2. The boys were reluctant to leave and requested to revisit this place again.

2010-11-30T22:36:00.012+08:00

Daddy and Mummy's 5th Wedding Anniversary

It's every woman's dream to don the wedding gown and of course, its a dream come true once again for Mummy, to put on the wedding gown for a photoshoot, with the same man, for the right reasons and of course, assessorized by boys, temperamental and unpredictable boys. Since this is a little milestone in Daddy and Mummy's marriage, the celebration will actually stretch over several days and this photoshoot is the kickoff.

2010-11-28T23:01:00.004+08:00

Getting ready for Christmas!

Christmas is round the corner, next month to be exact. But the boys are getting the mood from the blithely decorated shopping malls. We decorated the Christmas Tree this afternoon and discovered that Rei has a phobia of it, thanks to the rough texture. Remembering last Christmas, Domi was also shunning the Christmas tree at the beginning, so it must be an age thing. Don't know where did Donovan get the idea from, he wanted to write down his Christmas Wish in hope for the realisation of that wish and this was what he penned down.

Candy cane cheesecake

Legible? It says:
I want a Ben Ten watch for Christmas.

Donovan asked Daddy to draw him a
Christmas tree and he coloured it with Domi.Recycled Christmas Tree
(Looking a little botak)

2010-11-26T19:54:00.003+08:00

Rei's first ice-cream cone!

It had to be Conetto-mini, cookies and cream! Seeing that the 2 gor gors eating ice-creams, Rei can't help but stare at them and visually begging for a lick. So Mummy gave in to those pitiful looks and let him indulge. He's enjoying it thoroughly!

2010-11-26T19:50:00.002+08:00

Barney Christmas Surprise @ United Square!

At the queue
Cayla and Dominus

2010-11-16T10:33:00.003+08:00

铁汉柔情

Mummy was chasing the boys around the room when she realised Daddy wasn't with them. When Domi opened the door to escape from Mummy's clutches, Mummy saw a chunk hunk fiddling with the sewing kit (which she hasn't opened before), trying to mend the torn handle from Domi's bag. Mummy was immediately put to shame as this should be in no way Daddy's job but he would always get ahead of her in times like this. There were also other instances where Daddy would do things that'll surprise Mummy. Like knowing when to order a new gas cylinder, decluttering the room, boiling water to refill the thermal flask and even preparing coffee for Mummy first thing in the morning! Not only does Daddy know how to take care of the nitty gritty, he also shoulders the responsibility of supporting the family. That's why he's the best Daddy and best hubby!

2010-11-14T18:21:00.001+08:00

Dominus' letter 'A'

Domi was very much into writing the letter 'A' lately and would never miss an opportunity to exhibit that he has learnt the alphabet. Besides scribbling on the whiteboard and paper, he formed the letter using bolsters! Look at his smirk expression.

2010-11-14T13:13:00.002+08:00

Beached!

Finally, Domi dares to leave the picnic mat

As always, the sunshine boy

Enjoying the waves

In the water!

2010-11-14T13:12:00.001+08:00

Chrysanthemum Konnyaku Jelly

2010-11-14T08:12:00.005+08:00

Enrichment or not? Hubby says its in the genes.

Mummy got wind that one of her students who 'under-performed' (in her parents' words) during PSLE got accepted into Victoria Junior College at Secondary 2. (Her PSLE aggregate was above 255 by the way) What was disturbing to Mummy was that this student has had absolutely NO tuition or enrichment of any sort from young. To top that, she didn't even attend childcare. She has full-time working parents and about half a dozen siblings to share the pie of attention. YET, she can be outstanding academically. Hubby says its genetically programmed in the individual. Convinced? Well.....

After almost 2 years of attending lessons with BERRIES, Donovan finally decided to call it quits. He had been crying whenever we bring him to his lessons and after some probing he revealed that a particular boy was disturbing him. Besides mentioning that the boy had pushed him, he didn't give more examples to support his aversion towards attending lessons. Persuasion and coersion didn't motivate him either. He is also willing to give up the toy which he wanted when Mummy used it as a bait to get him to continue his lessons. Mummy suggested returning to Woodlands CC BERRIES which Donovan came from but Don rejected too. So what does it say?

This pic was taken at the former BERRIES @ WDLDs CC
and Don was happy as the class size was small then.

So BERRIES is out, and Mummy suggested trying some art classes to balance him up but Donovan rejected as well. When Mummy thought all was lost, Donovan actually reassured Mummy that he liked the idea of studying with Mummy around and indeed, he is more on-task and consistent when Mummy sits down with him. So Daddy suggested that Mummy should stay home to look after them full time. If Mummy is home full-time, it'll mean one income less but it'll also convert to some savings if we can cut down on enrichment classes. So which is a better strategy?

2010-10-25T11:17:00.005+08:00

Cherie Hearts Year End Concert 2010 (Part II)

2010-10-23T22:31:00.000+08:00

Chicken Pie!
Mummy's first attempt.

2010-10-23T22:13:00.003+08:00

Cherie Hearts Year End Concert 2010

The boys were looking forward to this concert since they started practising for their items. Donovan was especially excited as he enjoyed performing very much. He is always dancing for us at home and would gleefully oblige when we request for a repeated rehearsal anytime anywhere. Domi on the contrary wasn't that keen to be on stage. He's a more reserved character who prefers to be away from the limelight.

As we can see, the teachers really put in a lot of effort in putting up the show, coordinating the logistics and making sure the items run smoothly while keeping discipline with more than 50 toddlers backstage. Frankly, what parents really were really looking forward to was seeing their children on stage, regardless of how perfect or imperfect their dance moves were didn't really matter during those moments. Many little performers ended up standing on stage and waving 'hello' to their parents instead of dancing but their parents were laughing their heads off. Well, we were one of those.

Someone familiar? Yes, the clown whom we engaged for balloon twisting was at the concert to provide entertainment to children. Rei was a little skeptical of posing next to him for a shot but was eased up when the clown gave him a balloon.

Jerrimie and Grandma

Donovan's Indian dance

Donovan's animal poetry about bravery

End of concert

Donovan with best friend, Huckle

Domi with Chloe Tay (she looks sweet right?)

2010-10-20T00:54:00.002+08:00

Mummy turns 29!

Yup! Its the final lap before the big 30 and Mummy is dreading it. Nonetheless, Mummy still looks forward to her birthday every year as Daddy always strive to make it special. All these years, Daddy had remained loyal to the type of present he'll get for Mummy.... handphones. Mummy can always predict effortlessly what she'll be getting every year and this year, she begged Daddy to break the tradition. However, Daddy insisted, as Mummy's handphone is really in bad shape. So Mummy suggested that Daddy gets a handphone PLUS a handbag!! Surprisingly, the usually frugal Daddy agreed! Yes, Mummy is extra happy!

Daddy made extra effort this year to make the celebration a little more lengthy. First we went to Kuishin-Bo for Alaskan Snow Crabs on Saturday, then had a small cake-cutting with Grandma and Great-grandpa on Sunday morning. Subsequently, Daddy brought Mummy on the Singapore Flyer for some 'alone' time. Then we head back for dinner with Nai Nai and Ye Ye. The following day, we went to Marche to satisfy Mummy's craving for German Pork Knuckles! Yum!!

Well, Daddy and Mummy is not getting any younger, so we should watch what we eat... Really, time flashes by extremely quickly by the time you are near or beyond 30...

2010-10-15T10:59:00.002+08:00

Dominus and Chloe Tay

Chloe Tay is Domi's classmate and is obviously someone whom Domi enjoys being with. According to the teachers, they would always reserve seats for each other and would share toys exclusively with each other. Once, Domi wanted to bring a ball to school as he insisted on showing it to Chloe Tay even though he knew that teachers wouldn't allow them to bring toys to school.

2010-10-12T22:39:00.001+08:00

Lollipop Monster VS Angel

Obviously this is the monster

This is the angel

2010-10-11T22:11:00.002+08:00

Sunday @ T3

It'd been awhile since we visited T3 and since Daddy has freed up his Sunday evenings, we headed down for a nice dinner. Donovan wanted to gel up his hair like Daddy and in the end, all 3 boys took their turn with hairstylist Daddy to get a spiky look before setting off.

Rei had a good time running in the big space

2010-10-09T00:24:00.006+08:00

Look alike.....??? After almost 25 years......

Dominus and Donovan

Danny Daddy and Terence Da Ber

2010-10-05T23:08:00.003+08:00

Mummy's new job, new challenge, new perspective

We're always asked to live each day to the fullest, as if it were our last. But do we actually believe its really going to be the last day? Chances are we don't. We always think we have more time. But what if we don't? What if we didn't even have time to say good-bye to our loved ones? If our whole life is flashed before us, would we have regrets for any issues? What would we have done differently?

Sounds depressing? Well, that's what Mummy has to ask her clients to raise their awareness about the vulnerability of life. Mummy had left teaching for awhile already and had joined the line of insurance. That's a whole world of difference. How different? The former is driven by passion while the latter takes off like a mission. The former centers around love while the latter revolves around figures. But does Mummy enjoy the new job? Well, to a certain extent, yes. There's a lot of time freedom in this line. Mummy can stay at home when we're unwell. She need not kill trees to apply for child care leave when we're scheduled for school excursions. Mummy can choose to bring Grandma anywhere anytime when she previously can only do so during the school holidays. Mummy can meet up with friends whom she probably wouldn't have time for if she were still teaching. All these benefits, priceless.

However, there's also a price to pay for these changes; a price too high to be paid, in Mummy's opinion. This new job nature had put some of Mummy's most treasured friendships to test. Many a time, Mummy had to face some truths which could have otherwise not surfaced if she hadn't chosen to work as a financial life planner. Some have put it across very frankly; that the same lingo was spoken when they were in the same boat. But now that Mummy had left the boat, it was mere acquaintanceship that Mummy had mistaken for friendship. Painful? Definitely.

Mummy was told that insurance is a line where she'll lose many friendships, but Mummy refused to believe as she felt her sincerity with friends would break that myth. But it seemed that there's a lot of truth to it. The consolation stands that along the way, she'll gain more friendship and strengthen those who strode shoulder to shoulder with her as she changed a job description. After all, its only the job title that had changed, not Mummy. Right?

2010-10-01T09:54:00.003+08:00

Fancy Dress Competition for Children's Day 2010 @ Cherie Hearts

Well, the fancy dress on the boys weren't exactly that fancy but we didn't have the time and budget for this inpromtu competition so we made do. Anyway, Mummy thought they looked handsome.... Haaaa....

Doreitius' first lesson at Shichida!

Finally its Rei's turn for Shichida. Mummy thought perhaps we should be more prudent but Daddy insisted. Well, its for their own good so Daddy and Mummy just have to earn more money! Rei is a super active baby and he couldn't even sit still throughout the lesson! In fact, he was already fidgety before lesson started proper! Mummy was so embarrassed as the other babies were very well-behaved.

2010-09-25T23:25:00.005+08:00

Fun at Marina Bay Residence

It was the rehearsal for Formula One race so Mummy brought us to Aunty Catherine's house to catch a glimpse of the race. To be more precise, we didn't get to see anything, but we heard the action instead. The continuous rumming made Rei mistake for the sound of aeroplanes flying past and he kept pointing at the sky. The boys enjoyed the pool and of course, the adults enjoyed the specular view.

2010-09-19T13:46:00.002+08:00

Baby Stella

Finally there's a girl in the family! Mummy's cousin is blessed with a baby girl and this is indeed a refreshing change! Beware, Daddy and Mummy might bag her home!

2010-09-19T13:39:00.002+08:00

The Bah-Lu-Ku Brothers (minus Donovan)

Came home one day and found Rei with a bump on his head. Turned out that he fell from the sofa while Jerrimie was vacuuming the floor. While Daddy was bathing the boys, Domi was jumping and he slipped and fell with a bump on his forehead too! Poor brothers.

2010-09-19T13:33:00.002+08:00

Swimming Fun!

The boys have been bugging us to bring them for a swim for quite awhile so we finally relented when both of us have a little bit of spare time. The Serangoon Swimming complex is just a stone's throw away so we walked over when the weather wasn't so harsh.

Look at the goggles' mark on Don's face.

Look! Domi has no neck!

2010-09-12T12:21:00.002+08:00

Durian Tiramisu cake for Grandma's 50th Birthday

2010-08-28T21:48:00.003+08:00

Donovan's 'Ke Ren Lai'

2010-08-28T21:40:00.001+08:00

Donovan's first pottery Artwerkz!

We finally had time to collect his first pottery art work after so long. Mummy was so happy when she held these in her hands and Donovan was thrilled too, and was so proud to show them to his brothers.

2010-07-20T23:48:00.004+08:00

Birthday Celebration (Part 4)
Just the 2 of us...

Finally, the last celebration for the month. Overdosed of cakes and birthday songs. Headed to town immediately after work to spend some time alone with hubby. Went for lunch at New York New York, collected hubby's birthday present, shopped a little, went for coffee and went for a spin around Marina Bay Sands before we fetch the boys.

Raining heavily on our way to town

At New York New York

Tie with hubby's name embroidered

2010-07-19T22:47:00.002+08:00

Birthday Celebration (Part 3)

Donovan briefly mentioned liking clowns as they are funny. So Mummy decided to source for one who is able to do some balloon twisting at Cherie Hearts. Ordered his current favourite character, Buzz Lightyear cake for him. The children at the CCC enjoyed the session thoroughly as they each have a balloon from the clown.

Domi had a balloon airplane
Don with Andy the magician

Birthday boy having the exclusive spiderman balloon

For the girls

For the boys

2010-07-18T15:13:00.000+08:00

Doreitius Turns 1!

2010-07-18T15:00:00.000+08:00

Donovan Turns 4!

2010-07-18T13:50:00.002+08:00

Birthday Celebration (Part 2)

This Number '1' cake is a must for all our boys.

The 2 Gor Gors started self-service as

Mummy was cutting

Aiyo......

2010-07-13T09:59:00.002+08:00

Are we really doing our kids a favour?

My parents used to have the regret that they weren't very successful people career-wise. Both came from very humble background where going to school is not mandatory but a luxury. (Actually my mum came from Nanyang Pri but she quit school as she prefers cooking and cleaning.... What??!!) In short, my parents then transfered their aspirations onto me, and provided me with the best that they could afford, so that I can fill up whatever was empty and pining in their cups.

I had a chance to take up ballet, but I gave that up to take violin. Then I took on piano classes on top of swimming classes and competition schedules. To further ensure that I am well-rounded, an art teacher was engaged to teach me at the ease of my home, one-to-one. Then my hectic time-table is peppered by Abacus and speed-reading classes. Seriously, for the meagre income they earned every month, they have definitely given me more than they can afford. Guess what? The only takeaway from those if that I exhibit the same kiasu-ism with regards to my kids.

Donovan started learning the piano late June 2010. Within a short time, he could understand the concepts even without me explaining it step-by-step. He could play the notes and is proud to play it for whoever is coming to our house. Donovan is also able to spell many words and do simple addition on paper. At times, I feel that I am giving him a lot of stress and with the fact that he is barely 4, am I expecting too much? Being a teacher exposes me to many children and parents who believed in over-preparing rather than under-preparing their kids. Giving them a good headstart ensures that they have an easier time in school later. Those who face difficulties will find studying too much a feat and will have their confidence dwindling when their peers are constantly outshinning them.

When I was schooling, learning a musical instrument is considered quite rare and any ceritification would mean real glory to you and your family. Aunts and cousins would call to ask about my marks, teachers would invite me to play for assemble concerts and even Dad's friends would get me to play a tune at their parties. For now, such skills is no longer considered prestigious. Everyone is learning a musical instrument and it is almost considered a basic requirement. Every parent is trying to outdo other parents and hence the stress in on the kids. That explains the newer, bolder and more ridiculous classes sprouting islandwide.

A professor's daughter who has a perfect score of 4As in 'A' level and armed with an excellent CCA profile, failed to be admitted into the Faculty of Medicine. The panel of interviewers revealed that the candidates are all armed with excellent academic records and strong CCA profiles, that is why the choosing becomes more stringent. With such phenomena, how can parents sit back and relax? I want my kids to have a good childhood without compromising their future. How can I have the best of both worlds?

2010-07-12T12:22:00.003+08:00

Birthday Celebration (Part 1)

Gandma with 4 birthday boys

Domi not included

Transformer toy from Gu-Zhang

Bicycle from Grandpa and Grandma

2010-07-11T13:29:00.002+08:00

Mixed Berries Charlotte Cake
for Family's July babies!

I want to thank Swee Cheng for encouraging me to give this cake a try. She made the colossal hassle sound very simple and I decided to devote my Sunday morning to bake it for the brithday celebration of Hubby, Terence, Donovan and Rei's birthday.

Center buttercream

Peaches as filling
Bread fingers, signature of Charlotte cakes
with Strawberries and blueberries

Complete the look with a ribbon

2010-07-11T13:01:00.002+08:00

A glimpse of NE show

Brought the boys to Suntec City yesterday and on the way, we saw many TP and soldiers setting up barriers to redirect traffic intending to bypass Padang where the show is staged. We had to alight at the start of Nicoll Highway (sounds dangerously adventurous right?) and cross the overhead bridge leading to the mall. Coincidentally, the helicopter escorting the giant Singapore flag flew past when we alight from Daddy's car and the boys were busy searching for the source of the sound. The fighter planes followed next and that frightened Rei as the sound was thundering. To make things worse, the 21 canon firing was next and all we could do was to make a dash for the mall.

However, the highlight of the day would be the snippets of fireworks which we were lucky to catch when we were done with shopping. The boys liked the splashes of colours in the sky and Domi was still asking for more 'ka-booms' (fireworks) when we reached home. Told him those were fireworks but he heard 'fire goes to work' and accepted that as an answer for the firework's absence. Funny baby...

Army tanks waiting along thestretch leading to Nicoll Highway

2010-07-10T15:42:00.005+08:00

Donovan Playing 'Mary Had A Little Lamb'

Baby Doreitius' 'first few steps'

2010-07-06T09:57:00.004+08:00

Another Baby?

The recent news in the entertainment section highlighted Zoe Tay's disappointment in having yet another baby boy. Sensing the emphathy in my voice? You are right. I can thoroughly understand how she is feeling and the pressure she could be handling from not being 'blessed' with a baby girl to meet expectations of friends and relatives, fans too. Since the birth of Baby Rei, many had been asking me if I'd like to go for another one and hopefully my courage can turn blessings into having a baby girl. I was always thinking to myself, "Having 3 is already above national quota, what more do you want?" Before I found out Baby Rei's gender, I consoled myself saying that the ill-fate of having 3 boys will not happen to me, yet it did. A kind colleague consoled me that God always have plans for such families as He thinks that the parents are equipped with great love for such imbalance. But where was God when I asked for a baby girl? Obviously oblivious. I have seen many families with 4 or more kids of the same gender. So would I subject myself to more disappointment? Maybe not.

However, I am proud to say that I wouldn't trade my boys for anyone else. Yes, despite the yearn for a daughter, I wouldn't give up being parents to Donovan, Dominus and Doreitius. If it had been a HER, I wouldn't get to know Donovan; the smart one who wins hearts with his eloquence and ability to empathise. I wouldn't get to know Dominus; the baby who crawls on three and drags the other leg, and as the baby who can say 'Mummy' before his 1st birthday. I wouldn't get to know my handsome Doreitius, who can walk before he turns one.

Making the decision whether to be parents once again isn't just about trying for a daughter. Really, the gestation journey is a wonderful one as I share one amazing blood stream with the little one, being inseparable and seamlessly connected. Watching the birth and happily categorising where they inherit their features from is another activity hubby and I like to engage in. And as they grow older, with their antics and tantrums surfacing, we would again 'blame' each other for the kids' lack of patience, habit of screaming etc. If the child is of a different gender, there would be a surprise element and something new to learn about. But at the end of the day, we really enjoy watching our different traits being exhibited in different combinations and degrees in different child and having a good laugh at them. And if we were to decide to have another baby, it'll still be for the same old purpose of discovering how our character can be manifested in another tiny being.

2010-07-06T09:43:00.003+08:00

East Coast Park 5/7/2010

Hadn't been to the beach for a long while. The recent oil spill made us postpone our trip even later. Since its Youth Day holiday, Daddy and Mummy brought the boys along with Ah-ma and JiuJiu to have some sunshine and splash!

2010-07-02T09:32:00.002+08:00

My originally, genuinely, humourous son.

Domi: Mummy, where is the Sun?
Mummy: (Thinking hard for an appropriate ans) Oh, the Sun has set. (He heard SAD)
Domi: No, the Sun is happy.
Mummy: No, I mean the Sun has SET. (Emphasizing on the 't' sound)
Domi: No...., the Sun is HAPPY! (Getting upset that Mummy disagrees with him)
Mummy: The Sun has gone home, drink NehNeh and Ohh ohh (sleep) already!!
Domi: Ok.

DAY 2

Domi: Mummy, the Sun is still sad?
Mummy: No, the Sun went home already son.

SIGH.....

2010-06-29T09:53:00.002+08:00

Cherie Hearts PARENTS-TEACHERS-MEETING

Met up with the boys' teachers for a formal PTM last Saturday. Had never believed in going for any of such as I always feel I know my boys better than their teachers do.

Teacher Lin once again assured me that there is absolutely no need to worry about Donovan's learning abilities and in fact, he is always appointed as the leader to help the slower ones and also to help the teachers set up the classroom and distribute the stationeries. When asked about Don's social skills, the teacher replied that Don has a particular friend whom he is inseperable with. To quote her, "Don and Huckle are always together and Don plus Huckle equals 20 kids". Well, how should I go about interpreting this statement? But Im definitely glad that Don is able to establish friendship with other kids and be of help to his teachers.

Dominus too, has some positive feedback this time. He was initially very very shy, too shy to even squeak in class. But ever since his toilet-training starts and he needs to inform the adults about having to go to the toilet, he bacame more accustomed to talking. The teachers commented that he learns faster than most kids and is one who speaks the most clearly in his group. Not too surprised actually, since he is a January baby and he is 'by right', expected to be able to do those mentioned above. When asked if he has any friends the teachers replied that he doesn't have a particular friend like Don, but is friendly with almost everyone.

There something rather disturbing though. The teacher mentioned that Domi is a well-behaved child who understands rules and works well with routine. When bullied by friends, he'll not attack back but would consult the teacher instead. This, to teachers, is a compliment definitely. However, it felt horrible to me as a mum. Not that I want my boys to be fighters, but I want them to be equipped with the initiative to defend and protect themselves when the need arises. Going to the teacher to explain the matter and then waiting for the teacher to come by and solve the matter would have been a tad too late to nib the problem in the bud. I want him to be able to insist his possession of toys if they were from his hands and I want him to speak up when his friends are unreasonable.

Can we train them to have skills like that? Maybe we can, but somehow in the comfort of home and security of having parents, they always behave like babies. And we as parents, always like to re-live those cute moments and so treat them like babies too. If this continues, how would they ever learn to grow up?

2010-06-24T10:13:00.002+08:00

Pancakes for breakfast!

Mini ones for the boys,

with maple syrup and chocolate sauce

WOw, its delicious! OIISHI!!
Really MEH??

Definitely!

Heee...

Any more?

2010-06-21T22:44:00.003+08:00

Baby Rei's multi-expressions shots

We like this best.

Doubtful
You want me to smile or what?

Professional model.

To infinity! And Beyond!

Still modelling on NEL

The pole is for ......

Domi baby looks so threatening

2010-06-21T22:42:00.001+08:00

Baby Rei's new BATMAN swim suit!

2010-06-14T22:47:00.002+08:00

Pottery Class with CLAY COVE @ Funan IT Mall

Came across this ad in Singapore Motherhood Forum and decided to let Donovan have a try at pottery. He is an active boy who moves more than he listens so I reckon this hands-on pottery class will interest him. (Pottery reminds me of that movie 'GHOST')

He was rather excited about the class and went in without throwing tantrums. He even shooed me away. But managed to snap some pics from outside the class through the glass therefore quality of the pic wasn't very good.

He managed to make a 'plate' which they'll paint the next lesson. He remembers the imperatives learnt in the lesson and was able to recall when Mummy asked much later, like 'rolling', 'pressing', 'cutting' etc. He told Mummy he'll paint his plate black, as that's his most recent favourite colour (watching Spiderman 3 a lot....).

The plate... Fishballs included??!!

2010-06-14T22:44:00.001+08:00

Random pics taken at City Square Mall

2010-06-14T22:37:00.002+08:00

Baby Rei went swimming!

Baby Rei was initially terrified of the water (in great amount) when we first brought him swimming when he was 6 months old. He would scream on top of his lungs whenever we bring him near the pool. He even refused to stand on the concrete near the pool. But of late, he began liking swimming and he took to the water very well. With his arm float, he sauntered in the pool and made friends with other children. Definitely an attention-grabber as people are amused by this petite busybody. Baby Rei swims like Gor Gor Donovan, who is a natural swimmer. However, Domi is still skeptical about entering the pool without Mummy.

2010-06-14T22:33:00.001+08:00

This is the way we drink our milk (x3)
All day long...

2010-05-17T00:02:00.004+08:00

Home Team Convention @ Suntec City

This is our first time on Circle Line to Suntec City. Mummy wanted to bring the boys to watch our nation's heroes, live, at Suntec City so she rallied Grandma and Great-Grandpa along. We counted 15 stops from Marymount to Esplanade station but because the distance between each station isn't far, we reached our destination under 25 minutes. Cool.

The boys were thrilled when they saw firemen and fire engines but were skeptical of policemen. Saw more uniformed personnel and they played with the police dogs. Went on board some of the civil defence vehicles while Mummy went snapping pictures frantically (usual....).

2010-05-16T21:13:00.002+08:00

Mummy's New Toy - Silicon Oven Mitten

Mummy decided to get this after seeing it once at CK Tangs. She didn't buy it on her first visit though. After several bakes and realising that the pretty My Melody cotton mitten can't really withstand the high temperature of the oven, Mummy brought her entourage after Shichida to get this. Wanted to get either black or white to match the kitchen but there were only blue and green to choose from. Sad.

Couldn't contain excitement of owning the cool silicon mitten, Mummy began working in the kitchen.

Kitty butter cookies!

Heart-shaped banana cake for Daddy
They love the crusty crust!

2010-05-13T09:57:00.003+08:00

Stormy Stormy Night

Last night was the first night since our moving in that we experienced heavy rain peppered with lightning and thunder. The rain started moments before we were getting into bed and Domi cried upon hearing the first roll of thunder. Daddy and Mummy pacified him by explaining the occurence of thunder (Never mind that he's only 2.....) and he was fine after awhile. Donovan was laying just beside Mummy and keeping very quiet. We knew that he was also affected by the thunder and lightning, but putting up a brave front. Whenever a lightning brightens up our room through the seams of our blinds, he'll say, "Another lightning". Mummy spent one full hour worrying and praying that the kids can sleep peacefully for the night, especially Baby Rei.

When we were putting up at Woodlands, we never had this problem with rain and storms. That was because of the structure of our unit and the positioning of our bedroom, we never hear anything that's happening outside. We would often wake up to realise that a storm had ridden past the night before. Of course, we took for granted. That's why the children couldn't fall asleep even with the repetitive primary chords of Canon In D playing in the background. To make it worse, staying on the 2nd floor means we can hear the raindrops crashing on the concrete grounds just outside our windows, on top of the thunder. Well well well.....

2010-05-10T20:12:00.004+08:00

What an embarrassing moment!

Have you ever witnessed a kid kicking a fuss over not getting what he wants in public? Have you wished or even vowed that you're never going to have to raise kids like that? Have you also secretly pitied the Mummy involved and relieved that you are not in her shoes? I have come across many and swore I'll never be in their shoes. However, today I became the center of attention not because of a spoilt brat but TWO SPOILT BRATS!!

Never willing to share their possessions, Don and Domi created a scene starting from NTUC all the way home (about 300m, but it seemed very far away today I swear) by screaming, "I want this! I want this!". Mummy tried to coax the other screaming tot to accept the other sweet of another flavour but was answered by louder screams. Fine. Mummy walked off with 2 of them trying to outscream each other. Their cries unknowingly attracted a number of onlookers and that made Mummy madder. By stomping off, the boys cried even louder and Mummy could feel a million pairs of eyes on her and judging what a failure she was. As the saying goes, 'if looks could kill, she would have died, a million times over'.

We have always been strict, if not, very strict with the boys. But why did this have to happen to us even then? It is quite understandable that children of Domi's age still doesn't have the concept of sharing so that behaviour from him can be forgiven and managed later. What about Don? Well, we could only use stories and more heart-to-heart talks before bedtime to deal with this issue. Let's just keep our fingers crossed that such moments don't arise too often.

2010-05-10T11:58:00.003+08:00

Some random pics

Finally, Rei is steady enough to bathe with his brothers. And boys being boys, they'll splash each other with water, crawl into each other's pail and change places, hold water in their mouths in order to spit it at whoever's not paying attention then have a good laugh at it. Sometimes they'll start complaining about their brothers but the next moment they'll be playing with each other again. This is brotherhood.

2010-05-10T11:21:00.002+08:00

One week had gone by...

It had been a week since our independence. Apart from the remaining 25 boxes still collecting dust in the house,we are managing fine. Staying on our own definitely brings a sense of liberation. The boys have more space to run, helper has less clothes to iron at her own time, hubby need not ferry us up an down the sunny island so many times a day and I can wear anything I want.

Staying on our own also stings our pockets a lot. We have to fork out for every single item in the household from fire insurance right down to toilet paper and I have to chop my own garlic!! No more leisure shopping after work and return home with a table of dinner waiting for me. Instead, I need to rush home to do the cooking and have the dinner ready for the kids when they get home. You know what? I'm enjoying it.

It may sound silly but it has always been my ambition to be a housewife. Yeah yeah, a teaching job puts bacon on the table but my devotion is always at home. So far, the greatest challenge daily is in deciding what to prepare for breakfast and dinner, but that's the only thing that keeps my brain working. Bimbo right? But I like it.... (nannny nanny boo boo.... )

2010-05-04T11:29:00.003+08:00

Arrival of Baby Jude!

The boys' little cousin finally arrived! Mummy was initially worried that the boys wouldn't have any cousins to play with but shortly after Cindy Gu-Gu got married, she is blessed with a baby. Cindy Gu-Gu went into labour on Labour's Day (not kidding wo....) and delivered Baby Jude at 5pm. This little fellow weighs 3.6kg and is looking very much like Do-Rei-Mi when they were newborns too! Well, perhaps all babies really look alike when they are newly born.