Chelsea and Christian's Growing Up Process =)

The Hidden Messages We Give Our Children

2011-12-30T03:05:00.000-08:00

Newborn

What we say: “You can cry all you want; I’m not going to pick you up again!”

What we think: “This is breaking my heart, but all those experts can’t be wrong.”

What the child thinks: “They don’t love me. They don’t care about my suffering. Mommy is perfect, so there must be something wrong with me. I must not be worthy of anybody’s love.”

What we say 20 years later: “What on earth do you see in Tom? How can you let him treat you like that? Don’t you know you deserve better than that?”

Infant

What we say: “No more nursing. You’re too big for that now!”

What we think: “I’d like to continue, but I can’t stand all this criticism from my relatives.”

What the child thinks: “I’ve just lost the most important thing in my life: the long periods of cuddling and the food that felt best inside me. I must have done something terrible. I must be a terrible person.”

What we say 20 years later: “Why are you drinking so much?”

Age Two

What we say: “You can’t come into our bed anymore. You won’t be lonely. Look, here’s a nice big teddy bear to keep you company!”

What we think: “Grandma thinks there’s something wrong with having you in our bedroom. I’m not sure what it is, but it’s more important for us to please her than to please you. Anyway, this teddy bear should make you happy.”

What the child thinks: “It isn’t fair! They get to cuddle with a real person. They don’t know me very well. They don’t care about my feelings. Oh well, at least they gave me this bear.”

What we say 20 years later: “I know you’re upset that Tom broke off with you, but is that any reason to overcharge your credit card like this? Will all this stuff make you feel better that someone left you? When did you become so materialistic?”

Age Four

What we say: “You know you’re not supposed to hit your brother! I’ll give you a spanking you’ll never forget!”

What we think: “There must be a better way to handle this, but it’s what my dad did, so it must be right.”

What the child thinks: “I was so upset with my brother I hit him. Now Dad is so upset with me for hitting, he’s hitting me. I guess it’s okay for adults to hit, but not for kids. I wonder what I should do when I get upset? Oh well, one of these days I’ll be an adult myself.”

What we say 20 years later: “A barroom brawl? Adults don’t hit people just because they’re upset. I never taught you to resort to violence!”

Age Six

What we say: “Well, this is a big day for you. Don’t be afraid. Just do everything your teacher says.”

What we think: “Please don’t embarrass me by acting up at school!”

What the child thinks: “But I’m afraid! I’m not ready to leave them for so many hours a day! They must be getting tired of me. Maybe if I do what the teacher says, they’ll like me better and let me stay home.”

What we say 20 years later: “What?! Your friend talked you into taking drugs? Do you do what everybody else tells you to do? Don’t you have a mind of your own?”

Age Eight

What we say: “Your teacher says you aren’t paying attention in class. How will you ever learn anything important?”

What we think: “If my kid never amounts to anything, I’ll feel like a failure.”

What the child thinks: “I’m not interested in the things the teacher talks about, but I guess she knows best. The things that do interest me must not be important.”

What we say 20 years later: “You’re 28 years old an you still don’t know what you want to do with your life? Aren’t you interested in anything?!”

Age Ten

What we say: “You broke another dish? Oh, never mind. I’ll wash them myself.

What we think: “I know I should be more patient with you, but at least this way the dished will get done.”

What the child thinks: “Boy, am I clumsy. I’d better not even try to help anymore.”

What we say 20 years later: “You want that job but you won’t even apply for it? You should have more faith in yourself!”

Age Twelve

What we say: “Go out and play with your friends – You’ll have more fun with them than hanging around here all day.”

What we think: “I know I should spend more time with you, but I’ve got so much to do. It’s a good thing there are so many kids around here.”

What the child thinks: “I want to do things with Mom and Dad, but they’re always too busy. I guess my friends like me better.”

What we say 20 years later: “You never call us or come to see us anymore. Don’t you care about our feelings?”

Age Fourteen

What we say: “Please leave the room, dear. Your father and I have something personal to discuss.”

What we think: “We have some secrets we’d rather you didn’t know about.”

What the child thinks: “I’m not really part of this family.”

What we say 20 years later: “You’re in prison?! Why didn’t you tell us you were having problems? Don’t you know there are no secrets in families? We tried so hard. Where did we go wrong?”

"Parents are often so busy with the physical rearing of children that they miss the glory of parenthood"

2011-11-07T23:07:00.000-08:00

"Parents are often so busy with the physical rearing of children that they miss the glory of parenthood, just as the grandeur of the trees is lost when raking leaves." --Marcelene Cox

3D/2N Cameron Highlands Getaway

2011-11-07T23:05:00.000-08:00

Strictly speaking, one night was spent on the coach. So it’s not as long a holiday as it sounded.

Our stay was at an apartment, complete with a kitchen, a living room, two toilets, a bathtub, complete with a Victorian style outer building appearance.

It was a little rush, and we wished we could take it slower; the café in the tea plantation, overlooking the hills of tea shrubs was worth another good hour. But instead, we were given only 45 minutes to savour it all.

~ We finally reached! ~

~ In the van, getting ready for our tour ~

Cameron Highlands Getaway: Sungei Palas Tea Plantation

2011-11-07T23:00:00.000-08:00

Photographs do it no justice at all; one would need to be present there physically to take it all in, the rolling hills of tea plantations, wow, and such a contrast from the concrete jungle Singapore.

~ At the tea plantation ~

~ Enjoying a cup of tea at the Ummph Tea shop ~

~ Does his glance tell you that he adores his sister? ~

~ What kind of pose is this? ~

Cameron Highlands: Our Apartment

2011-11-07T22:52:00.000-08:00

In the hotel near to our apartment, we saw a real fire-place, burning with logs from rubber trees. And the kids got all excited. It’s our 1st time too, a real fire-place. How would Santa come then? Would he get burn?

~ The fireplace ~

~ The street where our apartment is on~

~ Our living room ~

Cameron Highlands: Strawberry Farms

2011-11-07T22:50:00.000-08:00

A must isn’t? The kids dashed for this before our coach leave the next morning.

~ See his excited contented smile ~

"The most effective form of birth control I know is spending the day with my kids."

2011-10-21T20:44:00.000-07:00

"The most effective form of birth control I know is spending the day with my kids." -- Jill Bensley

No wonder Mummy Eliz is not pregnant.

Tales of Old Singapore by National Museum

2011-10-20T20:29:00.000-07:00

A 2-hour workshop by the National Museum of Singapore, our group outing was made possible by Carol, so special thanks to her.

Princess had a great time, thanks to great companionship from Reine, and Prince had a good nap outside, this being the first outing he had with his arm casted.

At the end of the day, Princess came back with a pop-up card about Sang Nila Utama, and some tales of pirates long ago.

~ She volunteered and was one of the ones holding the cloth ~

~ Spot her? ~

~ Group picture ~

"Having children makes you no more a parent than having a piano makes you a pianist."

2011-10-17T20:47:00.000-07:00

"Having children makes you no more a parent than having a piano makes you a pianist." -- Michael Levine

That's why, on the job training is just as important for careers as it is for motherhoods. And that's why Mummy Eliz reads alot, in an attempt to always try her personal best.

Prince’s broken bones; fell from monkey bars

2011-10-16T20:25:00.000-07:00

Probably all kids have to go through this, Princess Chelsea also had a cast during her Nursery years, and now it’s Prince Christian’s turn.

But it’s a bad fall, bones were fractured, sedation had to be given for the bone straightening procedure to be carried out. And he’s babying a cast since 16 October, now it’s 8 November, and the cast is still on.

Long recovery road ahead.

~ In pain ~

~ The X-ray ~

~ After the sedation ~

"There never was a child so lovely, but his mother was glad to get him asleep."

2011-10-15T20:46:00.000-07:00

"There never was a child so lovely, but his mother was glad to get him asleep." -- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Love On-board the Singapore Flyer

2011-10-15T20:14:00.000-07:00

Mummy Eliz hopes, that Princess and Prince will remember that they had loved each other so deeply, unconditionally when they were little.

Of course, there are the occasional squabbles, but taking a step back, especially when looking back in hindsight, and from the evidence present in photographs, the sibling love is there.

~ Nice ~

~ Nice, and very nice ~

~ She’s sooo lovely ~

"Of all things love is the most potent.”

2011-10-14T20:19:00.000-07:00

"Of all things love is the most potent.” --Maria Montessori

World War II History Fun Day - Homeschooling Activity

2011-10-12T19:31:00.000-07:00

This is a joint collaboration effort of some 40 mummies, and the theme this time round is World War II. Our previous themes were Singapore, China, and Egypt etc.

And here’s how it goes, each mummy setup a station, which includes hands-on activities for the kids, and in 2 hours, the kid gets to choose which station to visit.

Each station activity probably will take 10 minutes, and of coz, the aim is to make it a memorable activity, rather than to rush to complete all the stations.

Mummy Eliz worked on Evacuation and a mock-up of an Anderson Bomb Shelter used during WWII with Auntie Anju, and the kids got to make a diary of their own, after listening to Anne Frank, and also weight out some rice and chocolate.

~ Anne Frank station ~

~ Weighing out rice ~

~ Anderson Bomb Shelter ~

"A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child."

2011-10-08T19:17:00.000-07:00

"When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child." -- Sophia Loren

2D/1N Batam Harris Resort Getaway

2011-10-05T19:23:00.000-07:00

Well, we aim to attempt something different on every trip, so as to provide a stimulating growing up experience for the kids, but Batam Harris really disappoints us to a certain extent. We wanted to try flying fox, but it was under maintenance. Team building events was only for corporate bookings.

Maybe the expectations were high, thus accounting for the disappointment. The in-house Dino Kids Club was just an old stale-air smelling room, with contented staff repeating the same job scope day in day out.

To the kids, well, it’s the best kids’ play room, as at certain timings, sand play was incorporated, and fishing at the pond nearly was facilitated. So, it’s definitely an issue of different expectations.

~ My pirates ahoy! ~

~ A sweet pose!

And while the little ones were fishing, Daddy and Mummy had the chance to explore the surrounding areas on bicycles.

~ Looking confused ~

~ Fishing in action~

~ Feeding the fish afterwards ~

"Before I got married, I had six theories about bringing up children;"

2011-10-04T19:44:00.000-07:00

"Before I got married, I had six theories about bringing up children; now I have six children and no theories." -- John Wilmot, Earl of Rochester

Takashimaya Toy Fair 2011

2011-10-02T19:08:00.000-07:00

Mummy Eliz believes, when kids have imagination, and a great sibling, toys are just additional tools to enhance the make-believe experience. Princess and Prince hardly get new toys, usually just on birthdays and Christmas, so it’s an extra bonus, extra icing on the cake for them.

~ With their new toys ~

"Children are likely to live up to what you believe of them."

2011-09-30T23:14:00.000-07:00

"Children are likely to live up to what you believe of them." -- Lady Bird Johnson

Sport On! Kids Club - Abseiling

2011-09-30T20:08:00.000-07:00

It was supposed to be a challenging guts draining experience on a Canopy Walk, but due to communication issues, the height limit limitation was not being communicated out, so instead of a very challenging time, it was just, but never-the-less, a good experience on absailing, still enough at least to stimulate some brain cells.

~ Getting ready to take the plunge ~

~ Slowly, steadily ~

~ Prince rushing over to welcome Princess ~

Sport On! Kids Club - Fencing

2011-09-27T19:59:00.000-07:00

Sport On! Kids Club offers a great chance for developing young bodies and minds to be exposed to various kinds of sports, as the belief is there that the earlier a child is exposed to sports, the higher their acceptance level, and also their risk appetide.

So here's our 1st try, very enjoyable attempt indeed at Fencing.

~ On-guard, Extend ~

~ Getting ready ~

~ Who's the winner? ~

Baskers' Festival at Sentosa

2011-09-15T19:29:00.000-07:00

Sentosa is our famous island getaway, and touted as Asia's favourite Island Destination, so of course, when it held the Baskers' Festival, we were there to give our support.

~ Captain Palawan's favourite crew! ~

Austin Hills Golf Resort

2011-09-13T05:38:00.000-07:00

Can a boy fly? Yes, see the evidence below.

~ Flying in action ~

~ Getting ready for a second jump ~

Reflection time: Double Standards???

2011-08-31T07:32:00.000-07:00

When a child demands, she's called bossy.
When a parent demands, she's called firm.

When a child yells and screams, she's 'out of control'.
When a parent yells and screams, she's exasperated and tired.

When a child doesn't answer, he's called rude.
When a parent doesn't answer, she's called busy.

When a child isn't satisfied, she's called spoiled.
When a parent isn't satisfied, she's called discerning.

When a child is angry, she's 'out of line'.
When a parent is angry, she's justified.

When a child hits, society calls her violent and aggressive.
When a parent hits, society calls it 'discipline'.

--Lu

When we can acknowledge and address our double standards, we might stop seeing our kids as so different from us, and realize we are all made of the same tissue, the same needs, the same longings, the same wounds, and the same neurobiological need for attention, empathy and connection. When we take down our walls, we see each other's hearts... ♥♥♥

Day out with Daddy at the Games Arcade

2011-08-25T02:50:00.000-07:00

And only to the arcade, would Prince Christian be willing to go with Daddy, without Mummy’s presence.

Boys will forever be boys.

~ A great smile ~

2D/1N Bintan Agro Resort Short Getaway

2011-08-25T02:36:00.000-07:00

On hindsight, this looks like an overly ambitious experience.

Thankfully, all ended up well despite the initial jitters.

Our latest trip brought us to Bintan Agro Resort, and keen for something new, we signed up for snorkelling, snorkelling with 2 young ones, who had just very recently mastered swimming.

~ Princess with her snorkel set ~

~ Her being dumped into the waters ~

~ Daddy giving her a hand ~

White Sands Island; where time stood still

2011-08-25T01:47:00.000-07:00

After about 1.5 hours of snorkelling, we were brought to an island, White Sands Island, no my memory is failing me, the fact is, we snorkelled to the island at our own pace.

We felt as if we owned the island, there was no one there except us, and the kids can self-entertain for a good 2 hours there. Over there, time stood still. No rush, no rush.

~ A mini jetty ~

~ Upon reaching the island ~

~ Just sand and water for child’s play ~

Gathering at Fiona’s at Sunrise Gardens

2011-08-10T01:57:00.000-07:00

It’s been a while, almost 1 year 3 months since we met up with Princess Chelsea’s old playgroup friends; they had known each other through an online Catholic Playgroup when they were slightly old a year old.

Mummy Eliz enjoyed their company, every single one of them, and the kids, they just get along so well.

Courtesy of Auntie June, here’s some nice shots, Prince Christian is the one in blue, constantly after a balloon, Princess is the one in pink top. Of coz, the shots mainly feature Tong Wei, Auntie June’s lovely daughter.

~ Nice Montage; Chelsea 1st picture 2nd row ~

~ Happy Mood; Christian in the middle after a balloon ~

Worst news to bring ref the dreaded P1 registration

2011-08-05T01:46:00.000-07:00

Yi Xuan’s mummy will not be reading this blog; she’s not an internet addict.

But gradually unnoticeably, over the last 3 years, despite the differences in educational background, career proficiency etc, our families had gotten to know each other pretty well, as we shared similar parenting beliefs and styles.

Yi Xuan had also been a true friend to Chelsea, and by that, Mummy Eliz meant respect, no intentional hurtful words etc.

In the current hectic city life, many kids, especially those who did not enjoy a secure attached relationship to a pivotal parenting figure, probably due to their undeniable feeling of insecurity, tend to like hurting others verbally in order to gain some sense of supremacy.

If the above paragraph makes no sense to you, it’s some weird kind of logic that is in force and in most instances, the kid might not be even aware of it.

So, when Mummy Eliz had to help Yi Xuan’s Mummy attend the Phase 2B balloting, and to bring the dreaded news to her, it’s with a heavy heart.

Come next year, despite best efforts, Yi Xuan would not be attending the same Primary School as Chelsea, that’s really bad news. Probably it’s for some reasons that we cannot comprehend yet, but it’s a bitter pill to swallow.

Terracotta Warriors: The First Emperor & His Legacy

2011-07-18T01:33:00.000-07:00

One would need a trip to Beijing to complete the whole experience, Mummy Eliz felt.

He would be remembered even 1000 years down the road, his motives would be debated on again and again, there would be those who condemned him, and those who at least appreciate the fact that he made lots of contributions to the development of China.

So when ACM brought in this exhibition, how could we miss it for anything?

Probably, the kids’ understanding of it all was superficial, but it’s ok, as long as they had fun, it’s all right.

~ With Joyce Jieh-Jieh, troubling her non-stop! ~

Prince's Christian Marriage Arrangement

2011-07-17T01:19:00.000-07:00

Prince Christian “Mum, I'll give Dad my Batman Tshirt when I’m 10 years.”
Mummy Eliz “Why does Daddy need your T-shirt?”
Prince Christian “He said I can marry you if I give him the T-shirt.”
Mummy Eliz “Did he really?”
Princess Chelsea “Yes, Daddy did.”

KTM Railway Walking Route, fm Holland Rd to Bukit Timah Station

2011-07-17T01:00:00.000-07:00

Weird isn’t it, when it’s going to be around, it’s usually taken for granted, when news was out that it’s going to go, it became the ‘In’ weekend trip.

But that’s human nature isn’t it? So one fine morning, with our dearest friends, we went on a KTM Railway Walking Route, fm Holland Rd to Bukit Timah Station.

For most part of the 2.3 hours walk, Prince Christian had a special transport service provided by Daddy Tiong, he enjoyed better air, better scenery, and Daddy Tiong ended up with sore shoulders.

~ Prince’s special transport ~

And guess what, Prince’s take-away from this trip is the understanding finally of what a fallen log looks like, I guess, in a normal city neighborhood, it’s pretty hard to get a chance to show that to a kid.

~ Princess on a log ~

~ Prince on the same log ~

Winner of Look-A-Like Contest 1st Prize

2011-07-10T00:46:00.000-07:00

We've often been told all 4 of us look alike, but we were still pleasantly surprised when we took the 1st Prize of a trophy and a hamper at Toa Payoh West Cc 10th Anniversary Celebration Look-Alike Contest.

PS:

Prince Christian never really remembered the meaning of the word "hamper", it was after we won the hamper that he really started paying attention to hampers found all around in our neighbourhood. Well, Mummy Eliz guess this was a good example of learning thru play.

Chinese Heritage Tour by TP West Cc

2011-07-05T00:36:00.000-07:00

It’s taking Mummy Eliz eons, eons to just get some updates on the web. There’s probably no sense of urgency in the tasks, probably, if grading was supposed to be done, the updates would have been up already.

The weekend before the end of the June Holidays, we went on a Chinese Heritage Tour to the Chinese Heritage Centre, and the Chinese Wedding Gallery.

And a high to end the trip, Princess Chelsea’s second tooth came out on its own slightly after the trip. It scared all daylights out of her.

~ Teary Princess ~

1D Day Trip to Kluang UK Farm via KTM Train

2011-07-04T19:48:00.000-07:00

UK farm in Kluang sounds so Ang-Moish, but it’s actually came from the initials of the owner, so it can be forgiven as an attempt to pull in the crowds by sounding more high-class than it actually is.

Well, from the kids’ point of view, with unobstructed views of the clear blue skies and endless grazing fields, it’s actually a very good experience, esp the feeding of the goats with milk bottles etc.

It’s a day trip on the KTM Train, and we also made a short stop to play at a mountain, and everything would have been perfect if the return train was not delayed for a good 2 hours.

~ It's history now, the Tanjong Pagar KTM Station would never be used as a station. ~

~ Posing sweetly ~

Goats hands-on at UK Farm

2011-07-04T19:40:00.000-07:00

Princess loves animals, if she gets her way, our 3 room flat would be a mini-zoo, just witness her body softening when a lamb was placed in her hands.

~ The natural love for animals ~

~ More reserved little boy ~

~ Goat milk feeding ~

~ On a super hot day ~

Water Park beneath a mountain

2011-07-04T19:38:00.000-07:00

We should have that at our reservoirs too, that would make a great end to a hot day out hiking, and prob would attract more crowds to our reservoirs.

~ With Daddy for a dip ~

~ Simple play-area, but great fun! ~

Princess Role-Playing as a Journalist in Kidz In A Big World

2011-07-04T19:36:00.000-07:00

Princess was recording a LIVE! interview about a genie, very muffled recording thou. Plus she looks super stone, only the smile at the end is natural.. Haha.

URL accessable at

http://www.facebook.com/#!/video/video.php?v=10150372161694377&comments

"The people of Arabia are excited because of the arrival of a genie. The genie's lamp is broken so it might be hopeless. Taking a closer look at the genie, it looks friendly. Maybe it will even grant some wishes. This is Chelsea reporting live from United Sq."

At Tanjong Pagar KTM Railway Station

2011-06-08T23:48:00.000-07:00

Try spotting us, we were at Tanjong Pagar Railway Station last Sunday, and were asked to be amongst the shots, we can be found in the first few seconds of so, thus keep your eyes glue.... =)

http://www.facebook.com/#!/video/video.php?v=10150189254933261&comments

~ Here’s a picture of Princess Chelsea in case you miss her ~

~ A picture of Prince Christian ~

~ Handsome Daddy! ~

Princess Chelsea’s McDonalds Party

2011-06-05T21:27:00.000-07:00

Once again, it’s back at McDonalds, as the kids had such a fun time there last year, and as it’s probably will be the last time these K2 kids gather before they are off to Primary School, Princess Chelsea got to invite more kids.

In fact, we hit the maximum kids McDonalds at Kallang could accommodate.

Did she have fun? Well, the pictures tell a great story, thanks to Setoh who managed to capture the great smiles.

~ Toothless smile! ~

~ Birthday song time ~

~ Our immediate family, and the kids ~

Rockwell Automation Treasure Hunt 2011

2011-06-05T21:24:00.001-07:00

No, Daddy Tiong does not work there, but our dearest God-Daddy Mervin works there, and he’s a committee member for the Rockwell Automation Treasure Hunt Family Day 2011, and to show our support, we are there registered as a team with 2 other Rockwell Automation Staff.

Well, it’s technically more of Amazing Race than Treasure Hunt, and it was not easy doing this with two kids, running all over Sentosa Island, deciphering clues, performing games duties in order to earn some well-deserved points.

Lady luck was shining on us, thus we somehow, by the grace of God, managed to come in 5th, and also won a lucky draw prize.

After the games, it’s R&R time to the beaches, and to Palawan Beach, Princess Chelsea took part in an impromptu dance activity at Palawan Beach with Captain Palawan, and won herself a magnet.

~ Doing the dance ~

~ With Captain Palawan ~

Royal Singapore Air Force Open House 2011

2011-05-27T16:03:00.000-07:00

It’s our first outing to the Royal Singapore Air Force Open House, and a trip that was planned to be originally from 9am to 1245pm, dragged all the way to 5pm.

Auntie Jasmine had kindly once again coordinated for the Home-Schoolers Group to go as an organised group, and thus we were there on a Preview Day. It’s less crowded than possibly on a weekend, and we had more time to just roam free.

~ Princess Chelsea fulfilling her pilot dream ~

~ Princess Chris was off-balance as the helmet is too heavy ~

Outing with Friends to catch the REAL Hi-5!

2011-05-27T15:54:00.000-07:00

Gosh, the REAL Hi-5! One would not need to buy a huge sum, but would just need to queue 2 hours in advance at Marina Sq.

Not a bad deal, so armed with 4 adults, 5 kids got to see Hi-5 LIVE!

~ Just see the smiles on their faces! ~

Princess Chelsea’s 6th School Birthday Party

2011-05-25T10:37:00.000-07:00

For the 3rd year, Princess Chelsea celebrated her birthday in school with Keith, it’s her final celebration with this group of neighbourhood friends, thus she got her wish granted; a Barbie Cake.

~ With the girls ~

~ With the cheeky boys ~

3D/2N Royal Caribbean Cruise, stopover at Malacca & Penang

2011-05-12T10:30:00.000-07:00

It’s our 1st time on a cruise, and wow, we were impressed, with the amount of activities, and of course the royal-like dining at the Romeo & Juliet Dining Room on-board the Legend of the Seas Ship.

There’s this Ocean Adventure Club, for children from 3 to 12 years old, and it’s filled to the brim with activities every hour of the day, starting from 9am till 11pm.

Princess Chelsea loved the Science Adventures Experiments there so much that we had to negotiate with her to leave the place; she did up Jurassic Junior, Made Gummy Candies, Investigated Spiders and much more.

But the following week, she was sick for a good 3 days, it’s pay-back till, she was running on reserve energy, without naps from 9am-12mn daily, for a good 3 days.

~ Daddy and Son on and around the ship ~

~ The horizon, clear blue sky and all; and some plain good fun ~

Water-fun on-board Legend of the Seas

2011-05-12T10:27:00.000-07:00

Princess Chelsea, when Mummy Eliz looks at you in photos, your smile is so captivating and she can feel the child-like innocent joy in you. But on-board the Cruise, you got scolded so many times, when once again, you refused to stop having fun.

You’re a nice loving special girl, and you love to have fun so much that you would only stop when you had successfully worn yourself out. Perhaps your motto is life is “Life is short; PLAY SUPER HARD!”

~ Looks great right? ~

~ Jacuzzi fun ~

Gluttony on-board Legend of the Seas

2011-05-12T10:23:00.000-07:00

Mummy Eliz is suffering from withdrawal symptoms; she's literally dreaming non-stop about the great food at the Romeo & Juliet Restaurant onboard the Legend of the Seas.

A picture speaks a thousand words, just take a look.

~ Superb food plus a million-dollar view ~

~ Ice-cream, Ice-cream, I SCREAM for Ice-Cream! ~

Cruise Stop-over at Penang and Malacca

2011-05-12T10:17:00.000-07:00

In Penang, we indulged in foot massages for all 4 of us at a foot massage shop along Gurney Drive, a good 1.5 hours, and it’s only RMB $160, plus it comes with a sea-view.

In Malacca, we did what the tourists did, and here are the pictures as proof.

~ Christ Church ~

~ A Portuguese Trading Ship ~

PCF Nursery Kids’ Kampong Outing Fun

2011-05-10T10:03:00.000-07:00

Finally, it’s Prince Christian’s turn, to go on an outing with his friends in school. The difference this time was that the year allowed parents to tag along for the trip.

Daddy Tiong took it as a great bonding opportunity for some man-to-man bonding with his son, and rose to the challenge. They had some hot-day fun together, and came back tired but satisfied.

~ Trying to catch some long-kang fishes ~

~ Feeding the ducks ~

Pasar Malam Neighbourhood Fun

2011-05-03T07:12:00.000-07:00

Fun can be so easy, so simple, evident on children’s faces, but sadly missing on so many adults.

~ On a pirate ship thrill ride ~

It’s Emotionally Draining ... And it’s not the kids

2011-04-26T19:54:00.000-07:00

Psychologists says that blogs writing, to a certain extent, have a relaxing effect, especially if the tensions arriving from some issues gets released out, and the initially healthy state of the mental mind is restored.

So, it’s Mummy Eliz attempt to unplug some stress, before the brain gets shrink up in tension to the size of a raisin. It’s emotionally draining, and it’s not the kids, for the kids, at least there is a future in store, a time when independence descends, and they will rise to the challenges of the future.

Mummy Eliz might not even be fit to talk about it [as she does not need to face Granny Agatha 24/7], but the mere mention of Granny Agatha’s name bring so much tension to every single cell of her body. *two drops of tears*

With no doubt, Granny Agatha loves her children, and her grandchildren, but for the most part of Granny Agatha’s life, she allows herself to be sucked into this downward spiral, bringing along everyone in her immediate family, together with her.

She had been a sufferer of depression since her teens, and when one is around a depression sufferer long enough, one remembers no joy upon the mere mention of her name.

Yes, it might be a chemical imbalance, it might not be entirely her fault that she has depression. Perhaps she is so used to feeling depressed that she’s not capable of feeling any other way.

Mummy Eliz cannot forget, cannot let go, you would need to be in her shoes in order to understand or even feel a portion of her pain. And honestly, even if Granny Agatha passes away, in time to come, the pain also cannot be forgotten.

In short, Granny Agatha lacks resilience, when setbacks come her way; she slips into depression instead of facing it head-on. In her life, there are alway people to clear up her mess, help her, so she never gets the chance to develop any resilience. *another 2 drops of tears*

Life for the older generation is never easy, in fact, many led the same quality of life, but never ran away from its realities, yet Granny Agatha can sleep for months at a go, letting everything fall.

In order for a child to stay close to his/her family, there has to be a pull factor from the family. In our case, there was a pull factor from outside, and a PUSH factor from within. And it was why Mummy Eliz had to stay away for a period of time.

And Uncle John was even placed in a boarding school for a period of time, as Granny Agatha’s many episodes of depression left him uncontrollable, and aunties and cousins from the extended family had to intervene. *Mummy Eliz was so envious he could leave the family for a while, to at least have the positive influence of people, and let something good influence his growing mind*

Mummy Eliz hold hope, hope that Granny Agatha can change and lead a normal life, and it’s exactly this hope that is making her so sad, perhaps if she can accept that Granny Agatha would never change, and it would be easier.

GREAT! It works; Mummy Eliz ends this blog feeling that it’s all just part and parcel of her own cross to carry, and regained some strength. It’s off to another new day.

2D/1N Visit to Fishing Village Kukup

2011-04-26T19:47:00.000-07:00

In Year 2009, a scheduled trip to the Fishing Village Kukup in Malaysia was being cancelled due to Mummy Eliz’s miscarriage.

And the one this year was almost cancelled as there was another death of an unborn baby [not Mummy Eliz’s] in its womb, an unborn child without the heartbeat’s presence, and also not gaining weight for period of time.

We were torn between going and not going. Going would seem like we are having fun when immediate family members are mourning the death of a child. Not going would mean that we once again, break our promise to God-Pa Mervin.

In any case, we went ahead, and it’s a really HOT, nice, enjoyable experience.

For the 1st time, we tried the lighting up of fireworks, Kong Ming Lantern etc. The thrill of seeing fireworks being lit up right below one’s nose cannot be matched with seeing those being telecast on TV.

~ Prince letting go of his Kong Ming Lantern ~

~ Team work was needed ~

Red Forest Visiting on Kukup Fishing Village

2011-04-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

Well, there’s nothing much to do [which is great actually, as who needs a TO-DO list on a holiday] actually on Kukup Fishing Village, except relax, KTV, chill etc, so Red Forest Visiting would be part of any holidayer’s itinerary.

We went along with the flow, and it’s the kids’ first time on a suspension bridge. Well, the rules said that not more than 3 persons are allowed on the bridge at any time, and there is even a lady at the entrance of the bridge to make sure visitors follow this rule.

Not that we wanted to test it out by having more than 3 on the bridge at the same time, but the thrill is certainly there, and it sets the adrenalin pumping, especially when one knows that the risk factor is present.

~ On the boat ride to Red Forest ~

~ With Joanna Jieh-Jieh ~

~ With Daddy ~

Kelong Visiting on Kukup Fishing Village

2011-04-26T17:55:00.000-07:00

Princess is an animal-lover, and loves man-handling them, so at the kelong, she got what she wanted, check out the pictures for the proof of it.

~ Handling an sea urchin ~

~ Handling a Horse-shoe Crab ~

~ Requesting to pat a dog, that is idling on a HOT day ~

Princess Chelsea’s Ballet Grading Exam

2011-04-13T19:37:00.000-07:00

It definitely was not anything stressful, for her, it was just a fun experience, and a chance to get those muscles flexing.

~ Princess in her ballet exam attire, not a hair strand out of place ~

~ Outside the exam room waiting ~

Rock Climbing Experience w/ Climb Adventure

2011-04-12T19:41:00.000-07:00

Well, it's always said that parents should expose their kids to as many varied activities as possible, so that more brain connections are triggered.
Mummy Eliz is not a P.H.D in this field, but definitely find that Princess Chelsea enjoys and does not limit herself to the trying out of new activities.

Here she is, on a Rock Climbing Adventure w/ Climb Adventure with Safra Yishun, and although she failed at first attempt to reach the top, she did it at the second try.

~ Princess is ready to go! ~

~ Steadily gaining height ~

Christian's 4th B'day School Celebration

2011-03-31T19:57:00.000-07:00

Little Prince only has eyes for Mummy, watch the video for the proof of it, and Mummy Eliz feels so blessed, even if his attention shifts to some other lady in future, at least, once in her lifetime, a little boy only has eyes for her.

And in Prince's own words, his wife in future needs to be the exact replica of Mummy Eliz, with the same eyes, same hair, same voice, even having the same name. How great is his love!

~ Witness his undying love! ~

Christian's 4th B'day BBQ Celebration Video

2011-03-27T20:14:00.001-07:00

A candle that doesn't extinguish!? See how the kids handle that! http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=10150112360486199

Forever the Movie a.k.a 我爱你爱你爱你

2011-03-10T19:09:00.000-08:00

The synopsis of the movie starts with, “Since she became a flower girl at the age of eight, JOEY has been in love with the idea of finding that special man and being his bride.” And that was what caught Mummy Eliz’s attention.

As with any young dream-believing little girl, Princess Chelsea also harbours the fantasy of finding that special man and being his bride after being a flower girl, and for her, it was at the age of 2 years old that she first became a flower girl.

Not wanting to awaken her romantic desires that early, Mummy Eliz also tells her that in time to time, she would surely find that soul-mate out there, and when she meets him, she would know instinctively that he’s the one.

But then, for a night out with Daddy Tiong, Mummy Eliz thought that this might be a good relaxing movie, and thus, they went for the movie, courtesy of http://www.omy.sg/.

Not to Mummy Eliz’s surprise, her favourite scene was the leading lady calling the leading male, and babbling out strings of “我爱你爱你爱你”, while the leading male’s scared candid reply was simply, “打错了打错了打错了”.

It’s not a bad movie if you are looking for some light-hearted comedy, and it’s a good conversation starting point if one wishes to discuss the pursue of love with your young ones. So have a go!

~ First lovely pose! ~

~ Second lovely pose! ~

~ With her favourite one and only Daddy! ~

S’pore Home-School Trip to Gardenia Factory

2011-03-07T18:52:00.000-08:00

With special thanks to Auntie Boon Kee, we had such a wonderful trip to the Gardenia factory. It was just so much fun and educational (and yummy)!

It was an eye-opener to see the highly-mechanised process, including the HUGE bread cooler. We forgotten the individual machine names, but the impression of the place stays etched on our minds.

Also, it would never be the same without Audrey Jieh-Jieh, she added so much colour to the trip.

~ Gardenia Breads... ~

~ With my favourite elder sister ~

~ Dinner time ~

Organs’ Donation – Ability to help after death

2011-03-07T18:51:00.001-08:00

Mummy Eliz always feel that, upon death, one’s body return to ashes, and if one’s body parts can still be put to good use, it would be a great way to accumulate some good merit if one’s body parts can restore some peace and balance into another living being’s body.

Princess Chelsea agrees with the idea, but it was still terribly funny when she said that after donating whatever could be donated, she’s going to leave the bones to Fluffy.

Well, that’s really great use for resources, nothing goes to waste.

1 Corinthians for Parents - A timely reminder

2011-02-28T19:08:00.001-08:00

1 Corinthians for Parents

If I live in a house of spotless beauty, with everything in its place.

But have not love, I am just a mere housekeeper, not a homemaker.

If I have time for waxing and polishing cars and decorative
achievements,

But have not love, my children learn cleanliness, not godliness.

Love leaves the dust in search of a child's laughter.

Love smiles at the tiny fingerprints on a newly cleaned window.

Love picks up the child before it picks up the toys,

Love reprimands, rebukes and is responsive.

Love is present in every trial.

Love crawls with a baby, walks with a toddler.

Runs with the child, and then steps aside

To let you walk into adulthood.

Love is the key that opens salvation's message into a child's
heart.

Before I became a parent, I took glory in my house of perfection;

Now I glory in God's perfection in my child.

As a parent, there are so many things I must teach my child.

But the greatest of all is Love.

Fluffy’s gone back, leaving us sweet memories

2011-02-28T19:01:00.000-08:00

Fluffy’s gone back; he was here for a short stay of almost 10 years, and he’s left.

Daddy Tiong was relived, no more walking of dogs twice a day, no more brushing of his teeth nightly, no more rushing back just in case he peed in the house.

The kids and Mummy Eliz were sad thou; in the 1st morning that Fluffy’s not around, Mummy Eliz felt a weird sense of loss, Princess Chelsea cried, and Prince Christian kept chanting that he wanted Fluffy after school, when he saw no dog waiting outside for him.

Hmmm, we got to stick to the deal thou, he’s here for a short stay, and a short stay it’ll be.

~ Fluffy; a red poodle ~

~ Prince with Fluffy ~

~ Princess with Fluffy ~

Uncle John’s Traditional Wedding Dinner

2011-02-10T20:12:00.000-08:00

My gosh, this is such a belated post, and its delay is due in part to Uncle John passing to us the photos late.

Well, finally Uncle John got married, and here are two shots taken at his wedding. Evident in the pictures, niece Chelsea adores Uncle John, and this is as he still possesses this child-like innocence in his, and is always slow to anger.

Mummy Eliz on the other hand, is like a fire sparkler, easy to ignite but burns for a [hopefully] short while.

~ Princess with her Uncle ~

~ Prince enjoying his sweets ~

7 Days / 6 Nights Hong Kong / Shenzhen / Macau

2011-02-05T21:30:00.000-08:00

The main purpose of this trip was to attend Uncle John’s wedding dinner in H.K., but since it’s not every day we’re flying over there, our travels plans expanded to include Shenzhen and Macau.

Highlights

Hong Kong: Noah’s Ark, Hong Kong Disneyland

Shenzhen: Windows of the World, Splendid China

Macau: Ruins of St Paul's, Senado Square, The Venetian, City of Dreams’ [Dragon’s Treasure Show]

Itinerary

Day 1 Singapore – Hong Kong [Tues, 25 Jan 2011]

Assemble at Changi International Airport for flight SQ860 to HK, departs SIN 08:30, arrives 12:25.

Upon arrival, proceed to Bus Bay 19-29 at Coach Station located at Airport Terminal 2, to take the Airport Circular Bus to Noah’s Ark Park Island.

Buses arrive every 30 minutes, starting from 06:30 till 00:30, costs HK $24 flat fee.

Free ‘n’ Easy time at Noah’s Ark, with 1 night’s stay at Noah’s Resort.

Day 2 Hong Kong [Wed, 26 Jan 2011]

Check-out and take the Island Shuttle Bus to Tsing Yi MTR Station.

From there to Disneyland Resort in 15 minutes.

Free ‘n’ Easy time at Disneyland, with 1 night’s stay at Disneyland Hollywood Hotel.

Day 3 Hong Kong – Shenzhen [Thurs 27 Jan 2011 to Fri, 28 Jan 2011]

Take the HK Disneyland Shuttle Cross-Boundary Coach Service from Disneyland Resort Public Transport Interchange to Huanggang Checkpoint.

Free ‘n’ Easy Tour of Windows of the World. The nearest Metro Station is 世界之窗 on Line 1.

Free ‘n’ Easy Tour of Splendid China [spectacular closing performances, 龙凤舞中华地点：凤凰广场每天19:30-20:30 东方霓裳地址：印象中国剧场每天17：00-18：00 金戈王朝地点：海边马场每天14：00 、16：10]. The nearest Metro Station is 华侨城 on Line 1.

Free ‘n’ Easy Shopping at Children’s World at Exit A from Metro Station 华强北.

Day 4 Shenzhen - Macau [Sat, 29 Jan 2011]

Take a ferry from Skekou Ferry Terminal to Taipa Temporary Ferry Terminal.

Tour to Ruins of St Paul's, Senado Square.

Free ‘n’ Easy Fun at Kids' City at City of Dreams, located at Level 2, Hard Rock Hotel in Macau.

Day 5 Macau – Hong Kong [Sun, 30 Jan 2011]

Take First Ferry fm Macau Maritime Ferry Terminal to HK Tsim Sha Tsui China Ferry Terminal.

A night’s stay at Hop Inn, http://hotel.zoapiere.com.

Wedding dinner at hotel near Prince Edward Station, 4 stops from Tsim Sha Tsui Station.

Day 6 Hong Kong – Singapore [Mon, 31 Jan 2011]

Board the Airport Express Bus to HKIA.

Proceed to the HKIA for the flight back to Singapore, SQ863, departs 13:30.

Noah’s Ark, a paradise on the island Ma Wan

2011-02-05T19:27:00.000-08:00

Noah’s Ark was like a step closer to heavens for us, a great start to a holiday. Compared to the over-publicized Disneyland, Noah’s Ark was like a hidden gem, away from the hectic city life.

~ Upon Arrival! ~

Noah’s Ark also has a few great places to check out, like their Life Education House, and their Ark Expo. Details available on their website, if you need more info, drop me a line.

Noah’s Ark was built on an island, where only limited ferries and island shuttle bus serve the area, so noise pollution is controlled. The island overlooks the Tsing Ma Bridge, so the night-view is great. Stay for a night, but if you’re the kind who craves for pubs at night, then this is not the place for you.

~ At the Ark Garden, which depicts a scene from the Bible ~

On Noah’s Ark, one can also find a Condo Development known as Park Island, where there are more than 25 blocks of condo, supporting a Primary School, a Kindergarden, and a supermarket etc.

A word of caution thou, night-time there is peaceful, but if one is not used to peacefulness, it can get overwhelming. We loved the place thou.

For us, we prefer Noah’s Ark’s peacefulness over Disneyland anytime.

~ The million-dollar view ~

~ Daddy and his darlings ~

Shenzhen; a surprise at any corner

2011-02-05T18:22:00.000-08:00

Mummy Eliz was just telling Daddy Tiong, Macau’s Tourism Board did a great job, but Shenzhen’s Tourism Board needs to do more.

Well, a lot of information about Shenzhen was how it used to be decades ago, as if it had gotten frozen in time, but our trip there surprised us.

Upon arrival, we were ripped off by a Taxi Driver, and the locals were not exactly helpful, but that was almost as bad as it could get.

~ With Granny Agatha at the Hotel Lobby ~

Shenzhen is developing at the speed of a bullet train, and information about it found online did not do it justice. It’s a colourful place, and one could spend a good many days there exploring and discovering surprises.

And the closing shows at their tourist attractions, gosh, imagine more than 300 people being cast on stage in a production; it’s as good as paying for a theatre in U.K.

If you ever go to Splendid China or Windows of the World, DO NOT EVER miss their closing show. It’ll make every cent you pay for the entrance ticket worth.

~ Exploring the miniatures at Splendid China ~

Someone online said one would only need to spend 3 hours at each place, but gosh, that someone was so wrong, if we only spend 3 hours and miss the closing show, we would be missing a big bulk of the place’s appeal.

So in the end, we ran over-time, and ate into our time for Macau. We were supposed to cover both Splendid China and Windows of the World in a day, but ended up, did them on two separate days.

~ Riding a horse ~

~ Trying traditional Archery ~

Shenzhen’s Windows of the World

2011-02-05T17:13:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, we had no choice but to miss the closing show of Windows of the World, and after witnessing the standard of the closing show at Splendid China the night before, Mummy Eliz felt so regretful that she did not planned for one more day at Shenzhen.

We had to abandon Windows of the World as otherwise; we would not be able to reach Macau before dark. Without the show, the memories of the place would be just that of the miniatures of the famous icons found around the world, not as vivid and colourful.

For the little ones, they enjoyed the place nevertheless, especially when Mummy Eliz and Daddy Tiong tricked Uncle John into staying in a blown up Human Ball on a lake next to the Merlion with the little ones for almost an hour.

~ Princess with Daddy ~

~ Princess with Granny Agatha and Uncle John ~

~ Dinosaur Pack; the kids’ favourite ~

~ Our family in a one-of-a-kind mood ~

Macau; finally we are there

2011-02-05T16:05:00.000-08:00

Well, not meaning to belittle the historical value of the Monuments in Macau, it’s a trip that comes with no surprises.

We did what everyone else did there, ate their egg-tarts, took a walk up to the Ruins of St. Pauls, and went to the Venetian etc.

City of Dreams was a heavily marketed product, but honestly, it’s just a huge shopping centre, with a casino [which we never got to visit].

Macau is surrounded by the sea, and thus it’s awfully cold there. In the end, we had no choice but to get winter jackets for the little ones, we had survived on t-shirts and jeans everywhere else, so check them out in their cute little winter attire.

~ Feeling cold!!!! ~

4D/3N KL/Colmar Tropical/Genting Trip

2011-01-17T18:08:00.000-08:00

We had many firsts on this trip; the first time we met up with Mummy Eliz’s cousin, Maria Yu; the first time only Granny Agatha followed along, without Uncle John; the first time we visited a local private hospital, not for fun though; and the first time Daddy Tiong’s foot got caught under the wheel of a car.

It’s a pretty stressful trip, 2 pairs of eyes to watch over 2 little ones, and a senior citizen, and without a doubt, a most memorable one.

With Maria around, there was never a dull moment, she’s so bubbly and fun-loving, and loaned us the camera we forgot. Her being a local, she knew all those spots that tourists would not possibly know, and brought us to places which have the wow factor.

~ Princess with her aunt ~

First on the list, is a restaurant, which seemed to have sprouted out from nowhere, being just by itself in the wilderness. One had to drive up an area with no road lights for a good distance before one can find it, and there’s totally no signage pointing to the restaurant anywhere.

The food there’s good and cheap, and Mummy Eliz guessed that’s why there’s a good crowd there despite the fact that it’s hard to find.

Imagine, only MYR $168 for 2 huge fishes, lemon chicken, vegetables, prawns etc.

Then, it’s off to Look-Out Point, which is something like our Mount Faber here, for a good view at the city’s night’s skyline. The photos did not do any justice to the view, so if you have a chance, go view it in person and be wowed.

~ The night view ~

Bloody Mess before Fun at Petrolnas Discovery Center

2011-01-17T18:07:00.000-08:00

On the first day, Prince Christian had an accident; he knocked into the sharp edge of a glass table. Mummy and Daddy were busy with the check-in procedures, and thus were not able to pre-empt the knock.

What we saw, was just a freaked out Princess Chelsea, and a Prince Christian with blood covering half of his face, dripping to his t-shirt and the floor.

We rushed to a local private hospital, and thankfully, skin glue and an injection saved the day. The wound was just 1cm away from the eye, so, we were thankful it’s where it is, and not anywhere else.

After spending 2 hours at the hospital, we continued on our way, to the Petrolnas Discovery Centre, where we stayed till closing time, and yet were not able to cover even half of the area. So, we’ll be back another time.

~ “Mummy, save us! ~

Colmar Tropical Fun! A Princess' Dream

2011-01-17T18:06:00.000-08:00

At Colmar Tropical, a French-themed village, Princess Chelsea had her dream fulfilled. To her, it’s seeing a castle up close, the dream of every Princess-loving girl.

To adults, that place is a laid-back place for relaxing, with nothing much exciting, but if you look at that place from the eyes of a little one, it’s a place where imagination takes flight.

~ The view from outside; Mummy and her darlings ~

~ Princess with Granny Agatha ~

~ A close-up of them acting cute ~

There’s a pond with swans, and the kids fed the swans for ages, definitely enjoying the process. And ages for them is defined as at least 2 hours. Well the normal adult might just take a couple of pictures and move on.

~ The excited look! ~

Then it’s off to time pretending that one is in a training to be fit enough to protect the village, air paint shooting.

~ Looking scared, and yet with a hint of excitement ~

~ My warrior boy ~

Then it’s off to the Rabbit Farm, where Rabbits roamed. Princess Chelsea is very into animals, and would never get sick of feeding them.

~ With Granny Agatha ~

The little ones also tried out Donkey Riding at the same area, and refused to leave when it’s time to go. This brought smiles to Prince Christian’s face. He’s not a very expressive person at times, thus the smiles were like treasures to Mummy Eliz.

~ Prince on a donkey ~

~ Princess enjoying her ride ~

~ Our family ~

Well, there’s also a playground there, and the kids are done with it in an hour, while most adults would just see and go.

Prince Christian loved Colmar Tropical, particularly the bathtub and the night performance, whereas Princess Chelsea loved the animals. And the room was a plus, a French-designed bed-room.

If you are a thrill-seeking adult, this place does not work for you, as once after 10pm or so, the shops close, and basically, there’s nothing one can do except chill out, and take a slow stroll around the place.

But for kids, where everyday is play-day, this is a perfect place. Not as commercialized as Genting, a more of a get-back-and-connect-with-nature-in-a-cool-environment experience.

Genting was a usual trip for us, the only difference was that as it’s Granny Agatha first trip out to a outdoor theme park, she tried out the roller coaster and the big-drop at the GRAND YOUNG AGE of 72 years old. So that’s a feat!

~ See-saw fun for the little ones! ~

Christmas Gathering at Aunt Anne’s Place

2011-01-17T18:04:00.000-08:00

It’s the first time ever, a Christmas Gathering at Aunt Anne’s place, which brought together families on both sides of the newlyweds.

The younger ones got more acquainted with each other, and the evening ended with the little ones engaged in a never-ending game of hide-and-seek.

There was lovely food, gifts exchange involving the parents, and a little last minute performance put together by Princess and Lydia Jieh-Jieh, which brought much festive cheer to the occasion.

Lydia Jieh-Jieh played “Jingle Bells” on her Er-Hu, a traditional Chinese instrument, while Princess sang along.

Aunt Anne also painstakingly prepared art and craft kits for the little ones to keep their little hands occupied.

~ A picture of the performing pair ~

Prince Christian’s Christmas Wish

2010-12-28T10:33:00.000-08:00

Mummy Eliz’s little darling just wishes to turn back into an infant and the reason is to justify him breastfeeding for extended hours. He’s still very much attached his Mummy Eliz’s milk-making machines.

Boxing Day Gathering at Elita’s Humble Abode

2010-12-27T18:37:00.000-08:00

It’s the once a year gift exchange, and this year, it’s at Elita’s humble abode. With a total of 6 kids, it’s more of a balloon-playing, playground-playing, classic-resversi-game-playing, old-maid-playing bonding time.

When it’s was just the adults, it’s was night out at East Coast Park till dawn, and then proceeding to the Old Marina area for bowling etc. If Mummy Eliz is not wrong, this should be the 16th year this group of friends is spending Christmas together.

Of course, there are new additions of friends and leaving of old friends, but the core group stays more or less the same. While not practically exciting [which is expected, as we cannot possibly chill out at pubs out with the kids right?], this group has a calm, familiar feel to it.

And if we can last 16 years, Mummy Eliz is sure we can go a long way, which is such a comforting thought in the world of constant changes.

~ Prince’s Gift Exchange from Elita, which he simply adores ~
~ Princess enjoying her seaweed ~
~ Princess’ side-view, Mummy Eliz thinks she’s such a beauty! ~
~ The little gals, close to the cake, Prince of coz, is hiding ~

PS:

Thank you, God-Pa Mervin for never forgetting to get them little personalised gifts.

Rapunzel Rapunzel, Let Down Your Hair!

2010-12-20T09:42:00.000-08:00

Oh, the fairy-tale with a beautiful ending that totally captured Princess Chelsea’s heart, her whole soul was absorbed into the movie while it played, on the cinema screens of Cathay Cineplex at AMK Hub.

Mummy Eliz’s version is, “Rapunzel Rapunzal, Let Down Your Hair and I’ll cut it with a vengeance!”

Does Mummy Eliz have any issues with Rapunzel’s hair? Well, of course not, but she’s really sick of hair tying, and yet she can’t bear to cut off Princess Chelsea’s hair, so she’s got to vent her frustration on Rapunzel’s hair, and of course, that’s only possible in her dreams!

3 times a day, over 1000 times a year, Princess Chelsea’s been having long hair for over 4 years, so that’s is more than 4000 times, and to add in the shampooing, conditioning etc, argh!!!!

Old-Fashioned Play Builds Serious Skills

2010-12-15T21:04:00.000-08:00

Well, more than often, a best Christmas gifts might be just time to engage in free-play, instead of showering the little ones with toys.

Read on to find out why, in a article shared by Ms Carol, an educator online.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=19212514

S'pore Home-Sch Group's Visit to Orchid Gdns

2010-12-15T09:30:00.000-08:00

Another trip with Uncle Joseph, Daddy Tiong once again, had the honour of escorting Princess Chelsea on the trip.

She came back happy, recounting a practical experience of artificially inseminating the orchid plants using pollen on cotton buds, and from the pictures, one could tell Uncle Joseph managed to make the text-books lessons come alive.

A mummy who also joined the outing commented that thought they stayed on by their own for a while after Uncle Joseph left, the place did not seem as exciting as when he was around.

~ Paying attention to Uncle Joseph ~

~ Playing a game ~

Get off FACEBOOK! ... ... Hidden Dangers Lurk

2010-12-13T04:08:00.000-08:00

It's recently reported that out of 10 marriages that needed counselling at Fei Yue Family Service Center, 2-3 were a result of obsessive use of FACEBOOK.

Well, FACEBOOK can't take the blame entirely, but it's always a case of, there are some issues that needed ironing out between the married couples, but as avoidance is often less messy than confrontation, one seeks comfort on FACEBOOK, met a so-called 'soul-mate', met-up in person, and then oops, a failed marriage on the cards.

Mummy Eliz's reasoning is, obsessive use of anything is bad, thus to all out there, smash your computer if you have to.

Family Life Team at Christ the King Church once screened a movie, named Fireproof, it's about saving a marriage that is once the rocks, a marriage where communication had broken down entirely due to many reasons.

And during counselling, and after self-reflecting, the most drastic action taken by the male lead was to smash his computer, and use that time instead to face his wife, doing nothing except praying when being ignored initially.

Well, just in case, you think this post is due to Daddy Tiong's excessive use of FACEBOOK, that's not the case, in fact, both of us FACEBOOK's accounts are in dormant stage, registered with profile pictures, we logged in to read once in a while, but have no time to post.

Toa Payoh North RC Holiday Fun! Farm Visits

2010-12-12T09:27:00.000-08:00

Finally, an event is being organised by the Toa Payoh North Resident Committee.

Granny Siew Khim joined us for the half day outing, and it included visits to Organic Vegetables and Fish Farm along the Lim Chu Kang area.

Princess Chelsea, together with Granny tried the Fish Spa, and felt so ticklish throughout.

~ Feeling coy ~

Weekly swim at Toa Payoh Pool

2010-12-07T22:18:00.001-08:00

This is a great year, the sister-brother pair can play together for hours, and somehow, week after week, the Toa Payoh Pool seemed to work its magic on them.

They can play from 6pm to 8pm, and then still refuse to leave, not just a one-off incident, but week after week.

Kids can really be easily satisfied, just a pool of water, and their imaginations set off. If only adults can be satisfied just as easily, wouldn’t that be great?

Standard Chartered S'pore Marathon 2010

2010-12-07T22:16:00.000-08:00

It’s our 3rd year participating in the event, and it’s the first time Prince Christian ran non-stop all by himself to the finishing line.

It’s no mean feat, 750m non-stop for a 3 year old pampered little fellow! Mummy Eliz jogged beside him, spurring him on with stories of enemies, crocodiles, dragons etc.

He seemed to get his energy drawn from the fact that Mummy Eliz highlighted, that at a war, the enemy is not going to give a care about whether your legs ache, and that while running away from danger, as in away from a crocodile, the crocodile is not going to slow down if your legs ache.

Thus, continuing on despite the ache in the legs is a great away to train up some good strong muscles, and then, in times of war or danger, we can be better equipped to escape safely.

Then, we had a photo taken with the Mascot from Universal Studios, who is also there under the hot sun!

~ The lovely sister-brother pair ~

Laughter-time - Directions for Jesus to the cross

2010-12-07T22:06:00.000-08:00

One nice evening, Prince Christian drew a colourful picture of a cross, and mentioned that Jesus likes the cross.

Princess Chelsea then replied that she thought, it is a well-known fact that Jesus died on the cross for mankind, but she was not sure if Jesus liked the cross.

Then Prince Christian’s candid reply, as he was pasting the picture of the cross onto the fridge set all of us into severe fits of laughter.

“I’m putting this picture on the fridge so that Jesus would know where he can die lah!”

Nicholas & Joanne’s Wedding Ceremony

2010-11-19T06:20:00.000-08:00

It’s such a joyous occasion; it’s Nicholas and Joanne’s Wedding Day, and the two little ones are the flower kids for the night.

Early last year, Nicholas planned an elaborate proposal for Joanne, at a movie premier event. The stars for the movie was our very own Fann Wong and Christopher Lee, for a few days after, glimpses of the couple could be found in articles covering the event in the major local papers.

Our circle of friends were all kept in the dark, we did not know they were dating till news of Joanne accepting Nicholas’ proposal was out.

Nevertheless, it’s a match made in heavens, both bridge and groom have great personalities, and we are so glad to share in their joy. The kids were so proud and excited to share some of the limelight.

And here’s wishing the couple many great years to come!

~ Princess and Prince having a good laugh ~

~ Princess with Daddy ~

~ Right before the march-in; feeling butterflies in tummy! ~

Pinocchio the Musical, at DBS Arts Centre

2010-11-14T17:04:00.001-08:00

Lady luck shone, Mummy Eliz won a pair of tickets to Pinocchio the Musical at DBS Arts Centre, and the sister-brother pair went for the show themselves.

Well, of course, a 5 year old girl cannot possibly bring a 3 year old boy, thus Mummy and Daddy brought them to the venue, and the two of them enjoyed the musical by themselves.

Movie-and-Library date with Audrey Jieh-Jieh

2010-11-14T16:50:00.000-08:00

Princess is supposed to go on a movie-and-library date with Audrey Jieh-Jieh, and the morning itself, she exclaimed, “Yeah, today is the day, I am going out with Audrey Jieh-Jieh!”

And every couple of minutes, she went, “How long more before I meet her? I can’t wait!”

And so, she spent a total of 7 hours plus with Audrey Jieh-Jieh alone on Thursday, and when Mummy Eliz picked her up, she went, “Mummy, I’m so sorry, I had so much fun with Audrey Jieh-Jieh that I forgotten to think of you.” *faint*

On Friday, Audrey Jieh-Jieh helped to pick Princess from her cookies-baking class, and Mummy came shortly, Princess grumbled, “Mummy, why did you come so fast?”

Mummy Eliz should let Princess go on a sleepover at Audrey Jieh-Jieh’s place, then that would surely make her day.

Additional Photos from the Pulau Semakau Outing

2010-11-14T16:01:00.000-08:00

Mummy Eliz hopes that Princess Chelsea remember this trip, and the valuable lessons learnt in many good years to come, and that she would grow up to be someone who loves, appreciates and protects the natural environment.

~ With Daddy on the ferry ~

~ Staring hard at the starfish ~

Fun, Vibrant Off-Shore Trip to Pulau Semakau

2010-11-08T17:39:00.000-08:00

With special thanks to Mervin Khor-Khor, Daddy Tiong and Princess Chelsea had a chance to visit the Pulau Semakau Landfill – an unique offshore landfill with scenic landscaping and vibrant diversity.

The tour included a NEA briefing on landfill operation, a tour of the visitor centre, a landfill tour and a intertidal walk. It’s an eye-opening experience for Princess Chelsea; she got to hold starfishes using her bare hands, and see all kinds of creatures up close.

Princess Chelsea is like a city girl, unused to time under the sun, and thus Mummy Eliz was initially worried that this might be an outing too tiring and boring for her. But she came back all excited and satisfied.

Daddy Tiong came back with heaps of praises for the dedication and professionalism for the guide, Uncle Joseph, who showered Princess Chelsea with attention as she was the only child in the group.

Imagine Mummy Eliz’s surprise when she found out that it’s the same Uncle Joseph Lai from the Singapore Home-schooling group, a Daddy who shown the same dedication towards his kids’ education.

~ Understanding more about the intertidal walk ~

~ Following closely behind Uncle Joseph ~

~ Handling the starfish using bare hands ~

~ Group photo; tired but satisfying day ~

Here’s some quick facts and photos to share about Pulau Semakau:

- Located 8km south of Singapore with an area of 350 hectares, Semakau’s landfill is the world’s first offshore landfill created entirely from the sea space.

- Construction began in 1995 and landfill operation started on 1 April 1999.

- A 7km perimeter bund lined with impermeable membrane contains waste within the landfill area to keep surrounding areas free from waste.

- Currently, about 1,400 tons of incineration ash and 600 tons of non-incinerable waste are disposed off at Semakau landfill daily.

- Through planting and landscaping, western coast of Semakau is now a scenic and idyllic recreational destination with pristine water, fresh air and a green natural environment thriving with vibrant and rich biodiversity.

- Opened up in Jul 05 for sport fishing, intertidal walk, bird watching, stargazing and recreational outing comprising bait fishing, cycling, barbecuing and camping.

Princess caught in action for Sports Day 2010

2010-11-08T17:08:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Aunt Apple's husband, the unofficial photographer, we get to view the pictures of Princess in action during the family relay race.

~ Daddy Tiong passing her the baton ~

~ Holding onto the baton ~

~ Running for her life! ~

S’pore Home-School Group Sports Day 2010

2010-11-05T09:21:00.000-07:00

Fun! Fun! Fun!

The S’pore Home-Schooling Group had its inaugural Sports Day at the Singapore Sports School located at 1 Champions Way [What a lovely address!].

For the 6 years old and under, they had 3 stations where games such as three-legged race, fill-the-bottle, chairs-across-the-river etc were played and at each station, there was also a free play area for the 3 years and below.

For the 6 years old and above, it’s the typical events like 100m race, 200m race etc. Mummy Eliz and Daddy Tiong also took part in the Daddies and Mummies race, and our whole family was in the family relay event too.

~ Getting ready for the first game, Prince behind Princess ~

~ Pass-the-ball game ~

~ Three-legged race ~

It’s great team-work on display, helpful mummies and strong daddies were around to ease everyone’s burden, and with the workload shared among many parents, everyone had a fun time.

Thank you so much Auntie Shan Shan for the great coordination work, and planning effort.

~ Sun, Clouds and the Blue Sky ~

~ Moment of idling fun ~

~ With their medals; presented upon completion of games ~

PS:

Princess Chelsea really loves the sand, here's a picture of her enjoying extended sand-play while everyone else is attending the award and certificates presentation ceremony.

~ Sand play; Princess’ favourite ~

Our New Sleeping Arrangements

2010-11-03T19:30:00.000-07:00

For those of you who had been to our humble place, it is common knowledge that all four of us co-sleep on the same queen-sized bed. Thus one can imagine how packed like sandiness we are, with hardly space to turn.

Aunt Marie passed us a kids’ car racing bed, and it was meant for Princess Chelsea. It is going to be in the same room, and Mummy Eliz’s initial idea was to shift this car racing bed to the next room once Princess Chelsea got used to it.

But, Princess would sneak back every night, and now, it is Daddy Tiong who is enjoying the car bed by himself. The two little ones want to be near Mummy Eliz all the time, even in sleep.

Uncle John’s Graduation Photo Taking

2010-11-03T19:26:00.000-07:00

Our family had a photo taken at a photo studio, in conjunction with Uncle John’s graduation from NTU. Here’s a preview, taken after the session, using Daddy Tiong’s camera.

~ Mummy’s two darlings ~

Completion of Great Eastern Woman’s 10km

2010-11-03T19:25:00.001-07:00

Progression from a 5km run last year to the completion of a 10km run this year, in 1 hr 31 minutes. Not a fantastic run in terms of timing, but at least a completed one.

It was an enjoyable run this year, thanks to the MP3 player loaned from Aunt Anne.

Disney Halloween Princess Tea Party

2010-11-03T19:20:00.000-07:00

Just over the last weekend in October, Princess Chelsea finally got a chance to dress up as Cinderella to attend a Disney Halloween Princess Tea Party at United Square.

It’s a 2 hour program, with games, snacks, craft and a short visit to a miniature horror house. And while there’s no wow factor to the program line-up, it was interesting to see so many little princesses gathered together.

Musical Chairs was played, and a bullying accident happened, an older girl around 9 years old, in her desperate attempt to win, used her bums to push a smaller girl around 4 years old, and she fell hard.

The little one ran crying to her mummy, and the game proceeded on, with the 9 years old girl ultimately emerging the winner, with the desired prize.

The mummy of the little girl spoke to the organiser, who somehow had not witnessed the incident. After discovering the truth, the organiser asked the older girl to give up the prize to the younger one, and also to apologize.

Kudos to this mummy, had it been Mummy Eliz, she would likely have just swallow everything, and walked away instead of having the courage to right the wrong.

~ Princess is standing up, in a Cinderella costume ~

PS:

For Princess Chelsea, she made it into the quarter-final round of the Musical Chairs, and voluntarily gave up the chance to continue for the next round, her reason being that it’s too rough and that she would also enjoy herself dancing to the music on the stage, while waiting for the next activity.

Princess Chelsea’s Idea of A Special Day

2010-11-03T19:19:00.000-07:00

Princess Chelsea said, it’s a special day for her when Mummy Eliz bring her to her classes, well, it’s not to say that Mummy Eliz never brings her to swim, ballet, or piano, but that’s her way of expressing how special Mummy Eliz is to her.

Down the memory lane – October 2007

2010-11-03T19:18:00.002-07:00

October 2007, Princess was 2 years 4 months old, and Prince was a mere 7 months old.

It’s just so heart-warming to see already how loving they are, at such tender ages. Here’s some shoots that were taken then, found when Mummy Eliz was reviewing old digital images.

~ Helping with the buckle ~

~ Guiding Prince for a shoot ~

~ Feeding her little darling ~

Prince Christian Protecting Mummy’s Photo

2010-11-03T19:17:00.001-07:00

There was a night, when at 2am, Prince Christian woke and started asking about death, and started saying things like when Mummy dies, he cannot hug mummy anymore.

He started rambling on, listing a whole list of things that Mummy cannot do with him anyone when she dies, and started sobbing uncontrollably.

Princess Chelsea had this experience too, the fear of losing a loved one. Her experience was being documented here:

http://chelsea-and-christian.blogspot.com/2008/02/birth-age-illness-death-cycle-of-life.html

No amount of consoling worked, when he talked to his contentment, he simply said, when that day comes, he would just kiss Mummy’s photo, and protect it against robbers, enemies etc.

The dedication of a little boy to his mummy is so just sweet and enduring.

Princess' version of Vincent Van Gogh’s Starry Night

2010-10-10T18:16:00.000-07:00

During the September Holidays, Princess attended a ‘Paint Like the Masters’ Art Class, and was treated to a brief introduction to the life of Vincent Van Gogh and his works.

This was conducted by the Sembawang Family Enrichment Network, located just within minutes from the Admiralty Mrt Station, and it’s run by a group a warm and friendly Aunties and Uncles.

They have very interesting programs lined up during the holidays, thus do check them out at http://www.sfen.sg/events.php.

She learnt that although Van Gogh sold only one painting in his life, the aftermath of his work is enormous. Starry Night is one of the most well known images in modern culture as well as being one of the most replicated and sought after prints.

Van Gogh painted Starry Night while in an Asylum at Saint-Remy in 1889. During his younger years (1876-1880) he wanted to dedicate his life to evangelization of those in poverty. Many believe that this religious endeavour may be reflected in the eleven stars of the painting.

~ Princess’ version of Starry Night ~

Yamaha Music Course for Children

2010-10-10T10:48:00.000-07:00

Ever since last June, Princess Chelsea had been taking the Yamaha Music Course for Children, it’s a 2-years program, and we are now into Book 3. Book 4 marks the end of the course, and at the end of Book 3, Princess Chelsea is now familiar with two hands coordinated keyboard playing using the following chord patterns:

C Chord – G7 Chord

G Chord – D7 Chord

F Chord – C7 Chord

A7 Chord – Dm Chord

Princess Chelsea has an amiable learning relationship with her music teacher, Ms. Koh, and Mummy Eliz must say, Ms. Koh puts the joy in learning, one can feel the love for music and enthusiasm pouring forward from her.

Unfortunately, as Ms. Koh is going on maternity leave [of course, we are feeling happy for her], Princess Chelsea has to join the next class, she attended one session just over the weekend, and now the joy has been taken out of the learning.

It’s the same sequencing, melody singing, chords recognising etc, but the happy mood in the atmosphere is gone. The teacher in the next class, is a little too serious for comfort, and has an almost joyless face.

Well, maybe that's her personal style, if we had gotten her from the start, there would be no basis for comparison, but we had Ms. Koh, so it was like from the fluffy dreamy clouds to the hard ground.

~ Princess with Ms. Koh ~

Yoga & Art Trial at Little Scholars Academy

2010-10-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

Nowadays, Prince Christian would not go anywhere without his guardian angel, Princess Chelsea. To him, Jieh-Jieh is like a lighthouse in the stormy seas, especially when Daddy and Mummy are not around.

But change the setting to the familiar home, the usual love-hate siblings relationship would surface again; more prominently seen when they run out of play ideas.

At the Little Scholars’ Academy, where they had a yoga and art trial class, they certainly had fun.

That was followed by the Dance Appreciation Series of the Sleeping Beauty by the Singapore Dance Theatre at the Esplanade Concert Hall, where we got a VIP Box Office Seat for only $10.

~ A monkey yoga pose ~

~ A rabbit yoga pose ~

~ Drawing a Giraffe ~

~ Prince looking blur ~