Just a quick note: We're bringing Ning to Taiwan for a week long holiday tomorrow. Will update you guys when we're back.
Meantime, here's wishing all of you a Happy New Year!
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Friday, December 26, 2008
Winter Wonderland Dressing Competition
Last Sunday, our church's Sunday School organized the annual Children's Christmas Party. And the theme was "Winter Wonderland". To make it more interesting, there was a dressing up competition: To come dressed up in winter wear for the party.
Coincidentally, we're preparing for our Taiwan trip and I bought a few cloths for Ning for the chilly weather there. So these came in useful for the competition. Here's how she was dressed up for the event (see collage) and she good naturedly posed for the camera. The cap and the scarf are from my sister but it fitted her nicely.
Eventually, she won one of the 15 prizes for "Best dressed kid" during the competition. And got a snowman water bottle home.
Coincidentally, we're preparing for our Taiwan trip and I bought a few cloths for Ning for the chilly weather there. So these came in useful for the competition. Here's how she was dressed up for the event (see collage) and she good naturedly posed for the camera. The cap and the scarf are from my sister but it fitted her nicely.
Eventually, she won one of the 15 prizes for "Best dressed kid" during the competition. And got a snowman water bottle home.
My 2008 Christmas Presents
Last year, WF gave me a pair of jogging shoes as Christmas presents. Because he wanted me to exercise regularly.
This year, I get a pair of Winnie the Pooh bedroom slippers AND a pair of roller blades.
I needed to feed Zhi milk in the wee hours of the night and our place is really very windy and cold during 2 to 4am. So he thought the slippers might come in useful to keep me warm while walking to and fro the kitchen to make milk.
The blades, well, he wanted to blade and thought it'll be fun if I can too.
I know, there is this Chinese superstition about giving shoes. But WF being a contrarian and one who never believes such things, feels that giving me practical "solutions" are best.
I wonder if I'm getting a pair of ski next year.
Hah Hah... wishful thinking.
This year, I get a pair of Winnie the Pooh bedroom slippers AND a pair of roller blades.
I needed to feed Zhi milk in the wee hours of the night and our place is really very windy and cold during 2 to 4am. So he thought the slippers might come in useful to keep me warm while walking to and fro the kitchen to make milk.
The blades, well, he wanted to blade and thought it'll be fun if I can too.
I know, there is this Chinese superstition about giving shoes. But WF being a contrarian and one who never believes such things, feels that giving me practical "solutions" are best.
I wonder if I'm getting a pair of ski next year.
Hah Hah... wishful thinking.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Attending Party/Gatherings 101
We held a few gatherings at our place this December and to a certain extent, it was crazy. Crazily preparing food and cleaning up the house. And to make matter worse, it was also the month where we change maid twice. So I had to do most of the cooking plus supervision.
Not so much about preparing for parties/gatherings since Martha Stewart is the expert in this area. What I want to share is some things to take note if you are the invited guest.
1. Never arrive early before the stated time of the gathering. In fact, according to a David Tutera Party Planner show, its quite rude to arrive early (as well as being late).
You see, we can't reject you when you've arrived at our doorstep. So we invite you in. You enter the host's house to meet an unprepared and embarrassed host, table's not set, kids are not bathed, drinks not prepared etc. And while the hosts are scrambling to get everything ready, you are left alone staring into the TV because none of us can entertain you at the moment. It becomes awkward for all of us.
2. If its a potluck gathering, please check with the host on the headcount. You want to bring something enough for everybody but NOT excessive. Key word here, excessive. Like its a gathering of 10 people, please don't bring something for 20 people.
Christmas is a time of giving and meeting. But let's not make it into a time of throwing. If you bring too much food (especially too much of ONE kind of food), there're bound to be leftovers. And very likely, you are not going to 'tabao' back. So it stays put in the hosts house. Your over-estimation becomes the host's responsibility to store and finish up the food for you over the next few days.
According to Espirito Santo Gourmet & Butchery, estimate about 200g of meat per person if you're bringing some roasted meat dishes.
3. Don't duplicate the same items for potluck. Check with the host and everybody in the emailing list on what items each guest is bringing. If emails aren't used, you can always call the host to check. The host should have the responsibility to check who's bring what.
So never assume. Because the last thing we want is three trays of fried beehoon and no other varieties. This is not a fried beehoon tasting competition, so let's make this gathering an amicable one by not having to compare taste and styles of the beehoon.
4. Never be overly late. Of course, we talk about arriving before the stated time, we must also talk about arriving late. Punctuality is something the society values. So it'll be nice if we can arrive on time. However, given the unpredictable traffic conditions in S'pore, lateness is something we can and have been tolerating.
However, there is a limit. Arriving more than 1hr later than the stated time can be quite disturbing. Especially if it is a sit down dinner and everybody is waiting for your arrival. Because we would be seen as rude if we were to start the dinner without you. And so we wait.... till the food becomes cold and the sauce turns gluey.
5. RSVP please. And also provide the headcount of people you are bringing so the host can prepare enough food for everybody. Its like those typical Chinese wedding dinner where we'll RSVP to the wedding couple on how many of us are attending the dinner so they can allocate seats for us. Likewise, if the host is cooking/catering, I need the headcount to do my food estimation. It's not nice if I under cater and it becomes a wastage if I over cater.
So much for these... I hope I am not being naggy.
And if you are thinking if all these did happen to me. Nope, not entirely. And I'm glad I had some really nice guests.
Merry Christmas to All!
Not so much about preparing for parties/gatherings since Martha Stewart is the expert in this area. What I want to share is some things to take note if you are the invited guest.
1. Never arrive early before the stated time of the gathering. In fact, according to a David Tutera Party Planner show, its quite rude to arrive early (as well as being late).
You see, we can't reject you when you've arrived at our doorstep. So we invite you in. You enter the host's house to meet an unprepared and embarrassed host, table's not set, kids are not bathed, drinks not prepared etc. And while the hosts are scrambling to get everything ready, you are left alone staring into the TV because none of us can entertain you at the moment. It becomes awkward for all of us.
2. If its a potluck gathering, please check with the host on the headcount. You want to bring something enough for everybody but NOT excessive. Key word here, excessive. Like its a gathering of 10 people, please don't bring something for 20 people.
Christmas is a time of giving and meeting. But let's not make it into a time of throwing. If you bring too much food (especially too much of ONE kind of food), there're bound to be leftovers. And very likely, you are not going to 'tabao' back. So it stays put in the hosts house. Your over-estimation becomes the host's responsibility to store and finish up the food for you over the next few days.
According to Espirito Santo Gourmet & Butchery, estimate about 200g of meat per person if you're bringing some roasted meat dishes.
3. Don't duplicate the same items for potluck. Check with the host and everybody in the emailing list on what items each guest is bringing. If emails aren't used, you can always call the host to check. The host should have the responsibility to check who's bring what.
So never assume. Because the last thing we want is three trays of fried beehoon and no other varieties. This is not a fried beehoon tasting competition, so let's make this gathering an amicable one by not having to compare taste and styles of the beehoon.
4. Never be overly late. Of course, we talk about arriving before the stated time, we must also talk about arriving late. Punctuality is something the society values. So it'll be nice if we can arrive on time. However, given the unpredictable traffic conditions in S'pore, lateness is something we can and have been tolerating.
However, there is a limit. Arriving more than 1hr later than the stated time can be quite disturbing. Especially if it is a sit down dinner and everybody is waiting for your arrival. Because we would be seen as rude if we were to start the dinner without you. And so we wait.... till the food becomes cold and the sauce turns gluey.
5. RSVP please. And also provide the headcount of people you are bringing so the host can prepare enough food for everybody. Its like those typical Chinese wedding dinner where we'll RSVP to the wedding couple on how many of us are attending the dinner so they can allocate seats for us. Likewise, if the host is cooking/catering, I need the headcount to do my food estimation. It's not nice if I under cater and it becomes a wastage if I over cater.
So much for these... I hope I am not being naggy.
And if you are thinking if all these did happen to me. Nope, not entirely. And I'm glad I had some really nice guests.
Merry Christmas to All!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Another Crazy Christmas
Went for this show last night at Suntec. It was put up by 10 crazy entertainers like the Dim Sum Dollies, Hossan Leong and Robin Goh etc.
Most of the performers sang some Christmas related songs which we find them so-so. But what WF and I liked best are the 4 segments put up by Hossan Leong on 16 new ERP gantries and his dance on Mambo nights, Pam Oei's Mrs Santa who made fun of the Lehman Brothers and the current economic crisis. Plus Neo Swee Lin ("Ah Mah" from PCK) and the Dim Sum Dollies on Obama & Hillary Clinton. And rounding it up is Selena singing all the Christmas Carols from A to Z. These were particularly entertaining, humourous and the topics were very local which we can relate to very well.
I must say, these local performers are really witty and creative. They can come up with catchy phrases and blend it into a familiar song, imitate the characters they're portraying and seemed so natural with it.
So do go and catch this show if you're interested. It'll end on the 22nd. But I know Hossan Leong is not performing on that night. Do choose a date when he's performing. His segment is really quite fun, I laugh so hard till I cried. WF commented he's quite a talented guy.
Most of the performers sang some Christmas related songs which we find them so-so. But what WF and I liked best are the 4 segments put up by Hossan Leong on 16 new ERP gantries and his dance on Mambo nights, Pam Oei's Mrs Santa who made fun of the Lehman Brothers and the current economic crisis. Plus Neo Swee Lin ("Ah Mah" from PCK) and the Dim Sum Dollies on Obama & Hillary Clinton. And rounding it up is Selena singing all the Christmas Carols from A to Z. These were particularly entertaining, humourous and the topics were very local which we can relate to very well.
I must say, these local performers are really witty and creative. They can come up with catchy phrases and blend it into a familiar song, imitate the characters they're portraying and seemed so natural with it.
So do go and catch this show if you're interested. It'll end on the 22nd. But I know Hossan Leong is not performing on that night. Do choose a date when he's performing. His segment is really quite fun, I laugh so hard till I cried. WF commented he's quite a talented guy.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Today is a Good Day
Today is a good day because:
1. I'm going for a haircut later. Its been three months since I last visit the hairdresser and my hair is in a mess.
2. WF & I are going to watch this show "Another Crazy Christmas" which boasts quite a number of famous local casts like the Dim Sum Dollies, Hossan Leong & Sebastian Tan. So we hope we are not going to be disappointed.
3. We're going to buy our roller blades tonight. WF had always wanted to learn how to blade especially when we stayed so close to ECP and there is this roller-blading friendly track in front of our place. We visited Carrefour some time ago since Jas told us they sell some value-for-money blades. The friendly promoter told us there'll be a sale in Dec. And she just sms-ed WF last night about this. Coincidentally, the "Another Crazy Christmas" will be performed at Suntec and Carrefour is just next door. So we'll pop by before the show and get our blades!! No prizes for guessing what will be my new year's resolution!
4. We finally gotten a new change of maid since the previous one didn't work out and we tolerated her for 2 weeks. I can feel everyone at home, including Ning, were relieved at this new arrival. And I seriously hope this new helper will work out for us.
5. Our dining room light had some problem for the past two nights. And I thick-skin-ly asked the condo's maintenance guy to help me fix it. He gladly agreed without any charges instead of calling the electrician.
6. Finally, booked a date to sent Lanny (the name of our car, the Mitshubishi Lancer) for servicing. I sent him for regular servicing but its just that these 2 months I needed the car so much that I had been very reluctant to send him away for 2 days. Well, I can't procrastinate any further because he's protesting by making the interior car light faulty.
7. Managed to start some spring cleaning on the kids toys. CNY is only slightly more than a month away!
8. We sent out our last batch of greeting cards this morning. One task down!
9. Manage to squeeze some time to update the blog.
10. I feel good!
1. I'm going for a haircut later. Its been three months since I last visit the hairdresser and my hair is in a mess.
2. WF & I are going to watch this show "Another Crazy Christmas" which boasts quite a number of famous local casts like the Dim Sum Dollies, Hossan Leong & Sebastian Tan. So we hope we are not going to be disappointed.
3. We're going to buy our roller blades tonight. WF had always wanted to learn how to blade especially when we stayed so close to ECP and there is this roller-blading friendly track in front of our place. We visited Carrefour some time ago since Jas told us they sell some value-for-money blades. The friendly promoter told us there'll be a sale in Dec. And she just sms-ed WF last night about this. Coincidentally, the "Another Crazy Christmas" will be performed at Suntec and Carrefour is just next door. So we'll pop by before the show and get our blades!! No prizes for guessing what will be my new year's resolution!
4. We finally gotten a new change of maid since the previous one didn't work out and we tolerated her for 2 weeks. I can feel everyone at home, including Ning, were relieved at this new arrival. And I seriously hope this new helper will work out for us.
5. Our dining room light had some problem for the past two nights. And I thick-skin-ly asked the condo's maintenance guy to help me fix it. He gladly agreed without any charges instead of calling the electrician.
6. Finally, booked a date to sent Lanny (the name of our car, the Mitshubishi Lancer) for servicing. I sent him for regular servicing but its just that these 2 months I needed the car so much that I had been very reluctant to send him away for 2 days. Well, I can't procrastinate any further because he's protesting by making the interior car light faulty.
7. Managed to start some spring cleaning on the kids toys. CNY is only slightly more than a month away!
8. We sent out our last batch of greeting cards this morning. One task down!
9. Manage to squeeze some time to update the blog.
10. I feel good!
Monday, December 15, 2008
Quick Update
Am really busy that I didn't have a lot of time to update anything.
I'm having a maid issue and we're hosting several gatherings at our place every Saturday and Sunday since 7th Dec. So I'm basically stretched.
I am so glad the Poly is having a three weeks break and our new maid is joining us tomorrow.
Update you guys when I have the time! Ciao...
I'm having a maid issue and we're hosting several gatherings at our place every Saturday and Sunday since 7th Dec. So I'm basically stretched.
I am so glad the Poly is having a three weeks break and our new maid is joining us tomorrow.
Update you guys when I have the time! Ciao...
Saturday, December 6, 2008
The Little WF with his Botak Head
Zhi had his hair cut two weeks ago. And he came back with a NS type of botak head haircut. I always thought boy's haircut are no brainer. No matter what the hairstyle is, they looked the same in anyway.
I was wrong. Because the moment Papa and the maid saw his new haircut, they all exclaimed it didn't look good on Zhi. It made him look "playful", "not innocent at all" etc.
Here's a look at his photo before the haircut:
When I brought him for his haircut, here's how the conversation went:
Hairdresser: Cut his hair?
Me: Yes, short.
Hairdresser: Whole head?
Me: Yes.
And it turn out like this:
I didn't know instructions given for boy's haircut must be as specific as females. So next time I must say,"Cut short. But shorter on the sides. Armani style"
But don't you think Zhi is looking very much like WF as well? The ears, eyebrows, lips and cheeks in the second picture.
I was wrong. Because the moment Papa and the maid saw his new haircut, they all exclaimed it didn't look good on Zhi. It made him look "playful", "not innocent at all" etc.
Here's a look at his photo before the haircut:
When I brought him for his haircut, here's how the conversation went:
Hairdresser: Cut his hair?
Me: Yes, short.
Hairdresser: Whole head?
Me: Yes.
And it turn out like this:
I didn't know instructions given for boy's haircut must be as specific as females. So next time I must say,"Cut short. But shorter on the sides. Armani style"
But don't you think Zhi is looking very much like WF as well? The ears, eyebrows, lips and cheeks in the second picture.
Friday, December 5, 2008
O Christmas Tree 2008
Following last year's practice, we went to get our tree last Sunday. And because we were more experienced this time round, we managed to choose a tree that doesn't shed as much fir as last year's, not so much "lobangs" that I need to cover up and its bushier and greener.
The only problem: we did a measurement of our living room's ceiling and decided we should upgrade our tree size to 8/9feet. Last year's tree was 7/8feet and we thought it might looked small in our now higher and bigger living room.
We were too ambitious. The tree came and the tip got stuck at the ceiling. Eventually WF had to saw it off. And also, because we chose one that was bushier and larger, we thought this tree is proportionally too big for the living room. Well, we can't return the tree nor exchange for one. So we'll have to make do and hope that next year, we do not make the same mistake again.
Here are some pictures I've taken of the tree with the decorations. Because of its sheer size, there are 105 baubles/snowflakes hanging on it.
Cats, The Musical
The long running Broadway musical Cats is coming to town next year. And we are pretty excited about it, including Ning. She gets excited whenever we come across the advertisment during the 9.30pm Channel 5 news time.
Sadly, when we wanted to purchase the tickets, they had a clause that states "No admission for children under the age of 4 years old". So poor Ning will not be able to to watch the performance with us.
The thing is, we've got a Sarah Brightman's CD and of all the songs inside this CD, she love track 12 best. Its a song from the musical Cats, titled "MacCavity - The Mystery Cat". Whenever we're in the car, she'll asked us to forward to track 12 so she can listen.
I really have no idea why she likes this song so much. It sounded devilish and the song is about this cat who is a "fiend in feline shape" and a "master criminal who defy the law". She will even sing with Brightman at the last part when "MacCavity" is sung three times with a "meow" which can give me the goose bumps some times. Talk about her musical inclination.
Well, we've not told her the news that she can't come with us for the musical. And neither anyone should tell her, otherwise I'll have to do "damage control". She'll cry and yell for sure.
WF doubt she can sit through that 2hours plus of performance, so its also good that she's not going. And it'll definitely save me some $$.
If you've not bought your tickets, hurry. When we bought them last week, the tickets were already selling fast.
Sadly, when we wanted to purchase the tickets, they had a clause that states "No admission for children under the age of 4 years old". So poor Ning will not be able to to watch the performance with us.
The thing is, we've got a Sarah Brightman's CD and of all the songs inside this CD, she love track 12 best. Its a song from the musical Cats, titled "MacCavity - The Mystery Cat". Whenever we're in the car, she'll asked us to forward to track 12 so she can listen.
I really have no idea why she likes this song so much. It sounded devilish and the song is about this cat who is a "fiend in feline shape" and a "master criminal who defy the law". She will even sing with Brightman at the last part when "MacCavity" is sung three times with a "meow" which can give me the goose bumps some times. Talk about her musical inclination.
Well, we've not told her the news that she can't come with us for the musical. And neither anyone should tell her, otherwise I'll have to do "damage control". She'll cry and yell for sure.
WF doubt she can sit through that 2hours plus of performance, so its also good that she's not going. And it'll definitely save me some $$.
If you've not bought your tickets, hurry. When we bought them last week, the tickets were already selling fast.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Christmas Gift Wrapping
Christmas is a season of gathering and giving. And its a season of "shopping" & wrapping for me. I wished the shopping is for my own luxury but I have been busy getting gifts for the little children that we are going to meet.
WF cannot imagine the amount of gifts I had just finished wrapping. He was like,"Wah!" The count is 18 at the moment and I haven't bought Zhi's present.
A friend asked me why am I so "kia-su" to start buying presents so early. Well, first, I prefer to buy early than rushing madly later. Second, buying early allows me to have more choice for selection. Third, a lot of our friends are going to be away during the Christmas week, so some of us are meeting early. I better get the gifts ready soon.
Now I'm suffering from backache: For sitting on the floor for too long while wrapping the gifts. I have also come to the conclusion that I may be good at other things but when it comes to gift wrappings, I score badly. So to all the little ones, please don't blame Auntie for such bad wrappings. The contents are actually quite nice, really.
Now back to my work... I have left it as it is since Wednesday and I have a dateline to meet!!
WF cannot imagine the amount of gifts I had just finished wrapping. He was like,"Wah!" The count is 18 at the moment and I haven't bought Zhi's present.
A friend asked me why am I so "kia-su" to start buying presents so early. Well, first, I prefer to buy early than rushing madly later. Second, buying early allows me to have more choice for selection. Third, a lot of our friends are going to be away during the Christmas week, so some of us are meeting early. I better get the gifts ready soon.
Now I'm suffering from backache: For sitting on the floor for too long while wrapping the gifts. I have also come to the conclusion that I may be good at other things but when it comes to gift wrappings, I score badly. So to all the little ones, please don't blame Auntie for such bad wrappings. The contents are actually quite nice, really.
Now back to my work... I have left it as it is since Wednesday and I have a dateline to meet!!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Christmas Cards
Dear Aunties & Uncles,
Mummy sends out quite a number of Christmas cards each year. This year, both mummy and I decided to make our own cards as it would be more meaningful and fun for me. Since I like pasting stickers and playing with Scotchtape, Papa thought I can put these skills into good use.
We got most of the card making materials from this beautiful shop call Laine's Papeterie and we have been making the cards, slowly, since early November. Here are some samples.
December is fast approaching and I would really really like all aunties & uncles to update Mummy of your postal addresses so I can post out the cards to you before Santa comes. Accordingly to Mummy, you can email, sms, post a comment on the blog or send the address via Facebook.
I look forward to dropping as many cards into the post box soon!
Love,
Yee Ning
Mummy sends out quite a number of Christmas cards each year. This year, both mummy and I decided to make our own cards as it would be more meaningful and fun for me. Since I like pasting stickers and playing with Scotchtape, Papa thought I can put these skills into good use.
We got most of the card making materials from this beautiful shop call Laine's Papeterie and we have been making the cards, slowly, since early November. Here are some samples.
December is fast approaching and I would really really like all aunties & uncles to update Mummy of your postal addresses so I can post out the cards to you before Santa comes. Accordingly to Mummy, you can email, sms, post a comment on the blog or send the address via Facebook.
I look forward to dropping as many cards into the post box soon!
Love,
Yee Ning
Monday, November 24, 2008
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Last Friday, 21 Nov, we brought Ning to the Victoria Theatre to watch the play: The Very Hungry Caterpillar & other Eric Carle's Favourites. There are 3 plays in the 45mins: Little Cloud, The Mixed-up Chamelon and The Very Hungry Caterpillar.
I supposed many parents and children are familiar with the caterpillar story and not so much on the other two. So when the caterpillar finally appeared in the last show, all the kids were screaming with delight.
Ning enjoyed the show very much. Even though she actually vomitted TWICE before the show. Yes, first it was at Marche, Vivocity. Then inside the car while we're on our way to the theatre. Imagine WF who was supposed to meet us there had to scramble to some shops to get clothes for her to change.
In the end, he did find some clothes, but it was adult's small size. Funnily, the pair of women's knee length leggings fitted Ning well like a pair of pants. But the t-shirt was way too big that it kept falling off her shoulder.
The highlight of the show for us adults was after the performance. Because the show was done in black light, meaning, the theatre and stage is in darkness and the stage was lighted up with ultra violet light. The stage staff appeared at the end of the show for a Q&A. If the children had any questions about the show or how the chamelon or caterpilar moved, they gladly explained and showed us the stage tricks (see picture).
The good thing was Ning didn't vomit during the show. And she was back to her active self the moment she was in the theatre. Her question to the stage staff (which she didn't say it out loud) was: Can I watch it again?
I supposed many parents and children are familiar with the caterpillar story and not so much on the other two. So when the caterpillar finally appeared in the last show, all the kids were screaming with delight.
Ning enjoyed the show very much. Even though she actually vomitted TWICE before the show. Yes, first it was at Marche, Vivocity. Then inside the car while we're on our way to the theatre. Imagine WF who was supposed to meet us there had to scramble to some shops to get clothes for her to change.
In the end, he did find some clothes, but it was adult's small size. Funnily, the pair of women's knee length leggings fitted Ning well like a pair of pants. But the t-shirt was way too big that it kept falling off her shoulder.
The highlight of the show for us adults was after the performance. Because the show was done in black light, meaning, the theatre and stage is in darkness and the stage was lighted up with ultra violet light. The stage staff appeared at the end of the show for a Q&A. If the children had any questions about the show or how the chamelon or caterpilar moved, they gladly explained and showed us the stage tricks (see picture).
The good thing was Ning didn't vomit during the show. And she was back to her active self the moment she was in the theatre. Her question to the stage staff (which she didn't say it out loud) was: Can I watch it again?
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Disney Live! Three Classic Fairy Tales
Beginning this year, Ning became pretty crazy about Disney's princesses. That also explains why she insisted on a Snow White birthday cake. I am not sure where she got the influence because neither me nor WF told her any stories about princesses like Cinderalla, Snow White and we didn't even get her anything that is princess related. But my good guess is from her school. Some kids are totally into princess theme and you can see from their school bags to their water bottles.
So now if you were to visit her room, you can find Snow White storybook, princess-themed bedsheets and colouring books.
This school holiday, the Indoor Stadium had a Disney Live! show on the three princess: Cinderalla, Snow White and Beauty & the Beast. And we went to watch the performance yesterday evening.
I cannot believe there were so many girls so crazy about princesses, even teenagers. But mostly, the audience consist of kids and parents.
Ning insisted she bring her Snow White book along and I can see she's totally into the show when it started. Looking intently at the performances.
What surprised me was when Snow White asked the audience should she eat the apple offered by the old hag, Ning shouted "yes" when all other kids were shouting "no". I asked her why "yes". She replied she wanted Snow White to die. Oh man... where did she get the idea from? Is she trying to be the evil queen who craves to be the "fairest of them all"? Hmmm....
Well, the pumpkin was missing in Cinderalla's show due to stage space which Ning keep asking it.
Other than that, the show does have its magical moments like how Beast changed into a prince. Or how Cinderalla changed into her beautiful dress etc. Good enough for Ning, I supposed.
Here are some pictures taken from the performance:
So now if you were to visit her room, you can find Snow White storybook, princess-themed bedsheets and colouring books.
This school holiday, the Indoor Stadium had a Disney Live! show on the three princess: Cinderalla, Snow White and Beauty & the Beast. And we went to watch the performance yesterday evening.
I cannot believe there were so many girls so crazy about princesses, even teenagers. But mostly, the audience consist of kids and parents.
Ning insisted she bring her Snow White book along and I can see she's totally into the show when it started. Looking intently at the performances.
What surprised me was when Snow White asked the audience should she eat the apple offered by the old hag, Ning shouted "yes" when all other kids were shouting "no". I asked her why "yes". She replied she wanted Snow White to die. Oh man... where did she get the idea from? Is she trying to be the evil queen who craves to be the "fairest of them all"? Hmmm....
Well, the pumpkin was missing in Cinderalla's show due to stage space which Ning keep asking it.
Other than that, the show does have its magical moments like how Beast changed into a prince. Or how Cinderalla changed into her beautiful dress etc. Good enough for Ning, I supposed.
Here are some pictures taken from the performance:
Friday, November 14, 2008
The Many Trips to the Zoo
The Malaysian worker killed by the white tigers in the zoo reminded me of our many trips there.
I supposed most Singapore parents would have visited the zoo at least once with their kids. Because it is such a "by default" place to have a family outing. Likewise, for us, we've brought the kids to the zoo a few times already. This year alone, we went there more than once.
For our zoo, I have good words for them. Generally, it is a very well-planned place. With ample facilities and child & handicapped friendly. The explanations provided at each zoo animal enclosure are also written in simple and easy to understand language. They even go the extra by teaching you how to differentiate certain species of look-a-like animals like the difference between a jaguar and leopard, alligator and crocodile. Want to know the difference? Visit the zoo!
If you are bringing kids, remember to bring their swimwear too. There is a fountain pool in the kids' zone where they can have water play while you savour your KFC.
Here are some of the photos I gathered from our past few trips:
I supposed most Singapore parents would have visited the zoo at least once with their kids. Because it is such a "by default" place to have a family outing. Likewise, for us, we've brought the kids to the zoo a few times already. This year alone, we went there more than once.
For our zoo, I have good words for them. Generally, it is a very well-planned place. With ample facilities and child & handicapped friendly. The explanations provided at each zoo animal enclosure are also written in simple and easy to understand language. They even go the extra by teaching you how to differentiate certain species of look-a-like animals like the difference between a jaguar and leopard, alligator and crocodile. Want to know the difference? Visit the zoo!
If you are bringing kids, remember to bring their swimwear too. There is a fountain pool in the kids' zone where they can have water play while you savour your KFC.
Here are some of the photos I gathered from our past few trips:
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
There's a Flu Bug Flying Around
Since last week, both the kids are down with some serious flu. Especially Zhi who had high fever, bloated stomach, diarrhea, runny nose and cough full of phlegm. Between a span of 7 days, Zhi visited the PD three times. Because after each visit, he seemed to add on more illnesses like diarrhea then cough.
Of course, the virus spread to Ning and she got it minus the fever and diarrhea. And as of Sunday, to WF. Now I'm surrounded by flu-ish people in the house.
I just hope all these will go away in December. Since December is such a festive mood, being sick can be so dampening. And also, we will be bringing Ning for her annual holiday with us. This time to Taiwan. I hope she'll build up her immunity by then and the last thing I want is her falling sick on the eve of our departure or during the trip.
Meantime, everybody please take care of yourself and drink lots of fluids. Weather hasn't been very predictable lately.
Of course, the virus spread to Ning and she got it minus the fever and diarrhea. And as of Sunday, to WF. Now I'm surrounded by flu-ish people in the house.
I just hope all these will go away in December. Since December is such a festive mood, being sick can be so dampening. And also, we will be bringing Ning for her annual holiday with us. This time to Taiwan. I hope she'll build up her immunity by then and the last thing I want is her falling sick on the eve of our departure or during the trip.
Meantime, everybody please take care of yourself and drink lots of fluids. Weather hasn't been very predictable lately.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Quantum of Solace - The Movie
Not that we are a fan of James Bond Movies. But since we got 2 free tickets for this show, why not.
And not that I want to write any review about this movie. But WF insisted I should write about it so that others will not be "con" to watch.
Our ratings for this movie: lousy. Or in a blunt way, WF's ratings: Waste of time.
If you think Casino Royale is bad, then Quantum of Solace is worse. In fact, this was one of the reviews written and we thought so too.
The movie's opening was rather messy and almost gave us a headache with the ropes swinging and glass shatterings. And the entire show only confirms Craig's nickname: Butcher Bond. In the previous Bond movie, he was rough, not as sleek and made several dumb mistakes. This movie, as M keep saying, he keeps killing everybody that crosses his path. His fights are too bloody and uncool.
The plot is weak and there are a few unnecessary scenes. It'll be good if you can remember what went on in Casino Royale because this movie is a continuation of that. Otherwise, you can get lost in the many characters mentioned or briefly appeared in the movie.
And where are the sleek gadgets Bond used to have like the Omega watch etc? We don't see much in this movie.
Oh... and according to WF, the Bond girl isn't pretty at all. Hmmm.... such a hard to please movie goer.
And not that I want to write any review about this movie. But WF insisted I should write about it so that others will not be "con" to watch.
Our ratings for this movie: lousy. Or in a blunt way, WF's ratings: Waste of time.
If you think Casino Royale is bad, then Quantum of Solace is worse. In fact, this was one of the reviews written and we thought so too.
The movie's opening was rather messy and almost gave us a headache with the ropes swinging and glass shatterings. And the entire show only confirms Craig's nickname: Butcher Bond. In the previous Bond movie, he was rough, not as sleek and made several dumb mistakes. This movie, as M keep saying, he keeps killing everybody that crosses his path. His fights are too bloody and uncool.
The plot is weak and there are a few unnecessary scenes. It'll be good if you can remember what went on in Casino Royale because this movie is a continuation of that. Otherwise, you can get lost in the many characters mentioned or briefly appeared in the movie.
And where are the sleek gadgets Bond used to have like the Omega watch etc? We don't see much in this movie.
Oh... and according to WF, the Bond girl isn't pretty at all. Hmmm.... such a hard to please movie goer.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Halloween Party in Pebble Bay
It was Halloween yesterday and the management office organized the yearly party for the residents here. Lots of kids and adults were dressed up for the occasion and residents here decorated their front doors for this "scary" day. I'm surprised that the turn out was really really fantastic and people do make an effort to decorate their front doors.
The usual "trick or treat" got all the kids excited and they all rushed from household to household to get their goodies. Of course, one week before this date, residents signed up with the office to indicate if they're participating in this "trick or treat" event so the children would know which doors to knock.
It was Ning's & Zhi's first time to witness Halloween and Ning was really amused by the scary costume the kids wore. Sorry to say, both the kids didn't dress up and neither participated in this event. Mummy had no idea how and what to dress two young kids up anyway. But even without dressing up, the kids got their treats from kind souls too.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
A Saturday Outing - Henderson Waves
Thanks to National Park's planning, the southern part of Singapore has a pretty good network of park connectors. One of them includes the Hort Park which we went before and the other is the Henderson Waves where it connects Mount Faber and Telok Blangah Hill Park.
We brought the kids there during one of our Saturday routines. I thought the architecture of the bridge is really modern and artistic (see pictures). Surprisingly, there are a lot of hikers on such a morning, young and old. Singaporeans are really into keeping themselves healthy.
We started off at the top of Mt Faber and walk our way towards the bridge. Too bad, the weather was warm, sunny and humid. The kids got cranky after walking halfway through the bridge, so we didn't stay long in Telok Blangah Hill Park.
We brought the kids there during one of our Saturday routines. I thought the architecture of the bridge is really modern and artistic (see pictures). Surprisingly, there are a lot of hikers on such a morning, young and old. Singaporeans are really into keeping themselves healthy.
We started off at the top of Mt Faber and walk our way towards the bridge. Too bad, the weather was warm, sunny and humid. The kids got cranky after walking halfway through the bridge, so we didn't stay long in Telok Blangah Hill Park.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
ColBar
To continue, after we left Hort Park, we went to one of our favourite hangout place: ColBar (short for Colonial Bar).
For those who don't know, this bar has a history which the surroundings and the description hanging on the wooden planks can tell. Even my pictures can tell you that it is kind of a "kampong" place. They sell an extensive range of chinese and western food. But our all time favourite is always the chicken curry. They have other nice dishes like the fried fish (whole fish with bones and head) with chips etc. Thinking of it makes me hungry already.
It is a quiet and relaxing place where the kids can roam anywhere they like and have fun playing the old tyre swing. Expect lots of expats and mosquitos in the evening though. Oh, and don't expect much service. Take the menu from the counter yourself, place your order at the counter and remember to return the menu back.
For those who don't know, this bar has a history which the surroundings and the description hanging on the wooden planks can tell. Even my pictures can tell you that it is kind of a "kampong" place. They sell an extensive range of chinese and western food. But our all time favourite is always the chicken curry. They have other nice dishes like the fried fish (whole fish with bones and head) with chips etc. Thinking of it makes me hungry already.
It is a quiet and relaxing place where the kids can roam anywhere they like and have fun playing the old tyre swing. Expect lots of expats and mosquitos in the evening though. Oh, and don't expect much service. Take the menu from the counter yourself, place your order at the counter and remember to return the menu back.
Hort Park
I mentioned that two Saturdays ago we went to Hort Park and got some potted plants from Hort Mart there.
Here are some of the pictueres we took (click on the collage to see enlarged image). Its quite a huge place with activity areas for the kids. And if you are the adventurous type, you can actually hike your way to Henderson Waves and to Mount Faber via the many bridges.
The only downside was we went in the morning. And by 11am, the sun is getting too hot for us to venture anymore into the park. So I suggest going there in the evening when its cooler. They also have a restaurant in the park. Not sure about the food quality as it was closed when we went there.
Here are the potted plants we bought to decorate our balcony. Fyi, they're growing well at the moment.
Here are some of the pictueres we took (click on the collage to see enlarged image). Its quite a huge place with activity areas for the kids. And if you are the adventurous type, you can actually hike your way to Henderson Waves and to Mount Faber via the many bridges.
The only downside was we went in the morning. And by 11am, the sun is getting too hot for us to venture anymore into the park. So I suggest going there in the evening when its cooler. They also have a restaurant in the park. Not sure about the food quality as it was closed when we went there.
Here are the potted plants we bought to decorate our balcony. Fyi, they're growing well at the moment.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Ning's New Pet
Last Saturday, we went to Hort Park for a walk. And from the park, we bought some potted flowers, seeds and plants home to grow.
Well, to Ning's delight, the Begonia Rose that we bought, had a caterpillar on one of its leaves. And we decided to keep it in our plastic fish tank (the one we got from Bottle Tree Village) to watch it grow into a butterfly.
Not that I have a liking for such things. In fact, it kept eating and growing till I thought it was quite gross looking. But we thought it might be educational if we could let Ning see how the caterpillar will eventually weave itself into a cocoon and then into a butterfly.
Currently, our "Very Hungry Caterpillar" as Ning likes to call it (adapted from Eric Carle's book), is in the cocoon stage (see 2nd picture). And anytime now, its going to become a butterfly.
Don't worry, I'll let it off the fish tank and not keep it captive. That's why I'm posting these pictures now.
Well, to Ning's delight, the Begonia Rose that we bought, had a caterpillar on one of its leaves. And we decided to keep it in our plastic fish tank (the one we got from Bottle Tree Village) to watch it grow into a butterfly.
Not that I have a liking for such things. In fact, it kept eating and growing till I thought it was quite gross looking. But we thought it might be educational if we could let Ning see how the caterpillar will eventually weave itself into a cocoon and then into a butterfly.
Currently, our "Very Hungry Caterpillar" as Ning likes to call it (adapted from Eric Carle's book), is in the cocoon stage (see 2nd picture). And anytime now, its going to become a butterfly.
Don't worry, I'll let it off the fish tank and not keep it captive. That's why I'm posting these pictures now.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Speed & Noise of F1
While organizing my photos, I found this clip that I took during the F1 race.
They say the speed of the cars are at about 300km/hr on average. And between each car, the time difference is less than 1 second. Looking at the clip which is about 20secs with the 20 racing cars, I think these statistics are right.
Of course the noise is really deafening. I had my ear plugs in before the race started and was still in my ears all throughout the race. The noise level can be up to 130 decibels high (very very loud) and that is why the organizer strongly recommend children under the age of 7 not to attend the race.
They say the speed of the cars are at about 300km/hr on average. And between each car, the time difference is less than 1 second. Looking at the clip which is about 20secs with the 20 racing cars, I think these statistics are right.
Of course the noise is really deafening. I had my ear plugs in before the race started and was still in my ears all throughout the race. The noise level can be up to 130 decibels high (very very loud) and that is why the organizer strongly recommend children under the age of 7 not to attend the race.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Children's Day Celebration
As the title suggests, we held two gatherings on 1st Oct and the same weekend Sunday for our friends' kids to celebrate Children's Day.
To get into the mood, I even went to get some party decorations to hang up. Good thing is, these are generic decorations and we joked that I can recycle them next year.
The first party, featured in the slide show, mainly had kids that were less than 2 year olds. So Ning was the big sister there. The tods had a fun time playing the electric car and the walker. And of course, all parents were busy catching up and snapping pictures of their little ones.
Sadly, I was to busy with preparation of food that I forgot to take pictures (not even a single shot) for the second party. Because the children coming are older, ranging from 1 year olds to 7 year olds, we had kid's meal prepared like baked fish fingers, nuggets, hash browns and strawberry drink. And I can say, these kids can really eat. Next time, I must prepare more food for them.
WF and I agreed that its fun to get friends and kids over to catch up occasionally. Moreover, the toys that Ning and Zhi got bored playing seem to get extra attention when other kids come over. So it creates good economical sense rather than letting these toys collect dust!
To get into the mood, I even went to get some party decorations to hang up. Good thing is, these are generic decorations and we joked that I can recycle them next year.
The first party, featured in the slide show, mainly had kids that were less than 2 year olds. So Ning was the big sister there. The tods had a fun time playing the electric car and the walker. And of course, all parents were busy catching up and snapping pictures of their little ones.
Sadly, I was to busy with preparation of food that I forgot to take pictures (not even a single shot) for the second party. Because the children coming are older, ranging from 1 year olds to 7 year olds, we had kid's meal prepared like baked fish fingers, nuggets, hash browns and strawberry drink. And I can say, these kids can really eat. Next time, I must prepare more food for them.
WF and I agreed that its fun to get friends and kids over to catch up occasionally. Moreover, the toys that Ning and Zhi got bored playing seem to get extra attention when other kids come over. So it creates good economical sense rather than letting these toys collect dust!
Hay Diaries Goat Farm
I mentioned that two saturdays ago, we went to the Hay Diaries Goat Farm in Lim Chu Kang. I've finally uploaded the photos to share.
The kids enjoyed the outing pretty much. Seeing the goats being milked and feeding the kids (young of the goats). The milking is done every morning from 9 to 11am. So if you're planning to visit the farm, do so in the morning. We were lucky that there was an RC senior citizen outing, so the farm had a representative to explain to us the qualities of goat's milk and how they milked the goats etc. For $2, you get to have a pack of hay and feed the goats inside the farm.
To end the visit, the kids get to enjoy the cold chocolate goats' milk which we bought at the counter. You can actually order the milk and they'll deliver to you.
The highlight of the outing was actually to the dragonfruit farm next door. WF & Ning love to eat dragonfruits and finally we get to have a chance to see how the plant really look like.
In this fruit farm, other than growing dragonfruit, the owner grows other plants like chives, grapes (yes, I have the pictures to prove), bitter gourd etc. For Ning, she gets to see and touch the various plants like papaya, ginger, pumpkin which I think is a good educational exposure.
On a daily basis, these fruits/vegetables are harvested and sold on the premises. The owner's family even made dragonfruit jelly and grape jelly to sell, which Ning thoroughly enjoyed it at home. Of course, we loaded up on the dragonfruits into our car too.
The kids enjoyed the outing pretty much. Seeing the goats being milked and feeding the kids (young of the goats). The milking is done every morning from 9 to 11am. So if you're planning to visit the farm, do so in the morning. We were lucky that there was an RC senior citizen outing, so the farm had a representative to explain to us the qualities of goat's milk and how they milked the goats etc. For $2, you get to have a pack of hay and feed the goats inside the farm.
To end the visit, the kids get to enjoy the cold chocolate goats' milk which we bought at the counter. You can actually order the milk and they'll deliver to you.
The highlight of the outing was actually to the dragonfruit farm next door. WF & Ning love to eat dragonfruits and finally we get to have a chance to see how the plant really look like.
In this fruit farm, other than growing dragonfruit, the owner grows other plants like chives, grapes (yes, I have the pictures to prove), bitter gourd etc. For Ning, she gets to see and touch the various plants like papaya, ginger, pumpkin which I think is a good educational exposure.
On a daily basis, these fruits/vegetables are harvested and sold on the premises. The owner's family even made dragonfruit jelly and grape jelly to sell, which Ning thoroughly enjoyed it at home. Of course, we loaded up on the dragonfruits into our car too.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Wah Fong's Birthday
In all fairness, I did celebrate WF's birthday this year. Ok, but let me stress, his birthday was in August and I forgot to post it here. Now that I remembered, its still better than not posting.
We invited the Bizaders (NUS Bizad) one weekend before his b-day to our place since a few of them are also August babies. And as in all previous birthdays for WF, I did what I do better: bake. So this year, its green tea cake with red bean paste filling. Something that is not so sweet and heavy. As far as I know, the guests like it. More importantly, WF finds it good (but not as good as the durian mousse). Maybe this christmass it'll be green tea log. Ha ha...
On his actual birthday, which was a weekday, I bought him a cake. An apple cake which Ning insisted on having. She never quite accept the fact that there are other people's birthday, not just hers. So she keep insisting it is her birthday as well.
She was all so excited and readily sang the birthday song to her Papa (and herself). And you can see from the photos, how happy Papa is.
Too bad, Papa forgot to buy Mama a birthday cake one month later, so she didn't get a chance to hear Ning sing a birthday song for her. Next year, I shall buy my own cake and get the kids to sing for me. *Humph*
We invited the Bizaders (NUS Bizad) one weekend before his b-day to our place since a few of them are also August babies. And as in all previous birthdays for WF, I did what I do better: bake. So this year, its green tea cake with red bean paste filling. Something that is not so sweet and heavy. As far as I know, the guests like it. More importantly, WF finds it good (but not as good as the durian mousse). Maybe this christmass it'll be green tea log. Ha ha...
On his actual birthday, which was a weekday, I bought him a cake. An apple cake which Ning insisted on having. She never quite accept the fact that there are other people's birthday, not just hers. So she keep insisting it is her birthday as well.
She was all so excited and readily sang the birthday song to her Papa (and herself). And you can see from the photos, how happy Papa is.
Too bad, Papa forgot to buy Mama a birthday cake one month later, so she didn't get a chance to hear Ning sing a birthday song for her. Next year, I shall buy my own cake and get the kids to sing for me. *Humph*
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