Today is the last day of 2005! We'll be having a BBQ cum countdown party at Stella's new shop. Hope it's fun. Anyway, I wish you all a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR and hope that all the good things will happen to you in the new year 2006.
It's a new year, so I must set my new resolutions:
1) Start buying size M clothes and wear them (slim down first lah!).
2) Learn to manage my own money.
3) Spend more time with my maternal family.
Saturday, December 31, 2005
Rest from work
I've been thinking of taking a break from work, maybe one day leave, to rest and spend time with Tara this week, but I couldn't, as I still have my big job to take care of. But my body, knowing that I really need this rest (mentally), programmed itself into "rest" mode and I've got 3 days off work.
Actually, I took leave on the 1st day. Tara woke us up in the middle of the night with her loud belching sounds. Knowing that she was going to puke, I instinctively place my hand under her mouth to hold her vomit. Yup, gross! She fussed a little while I changed and cleaned her and fell asleep soon after. After about 10mins, the belching sounds came again. It went on for a few more times and by the time we can get our rest, it's almost 5 plus in the morning. Tired and beaten, I took leave for the day. Even Bob had runs the whole night, making countless trips to the toilet. We wondered if it's the food we ate at some fish restaurant. Tara ate some fish too.
We brought her to the paeds at Tiong Bahru. I started to feel discomfort, bit of gastric and stomachache but nothing happened till the next morning. Since 7am in the morning till 12 midnight, I went to the toilet 12 times, had a low grade fever, slight gastric pains, mild nausea and severe giddiness. I couldn't even stand up to shower. Went to see Kelly and was given MC for 2 days.
Being the very "outdoor" person I am, being stuck at home for 3 days is a bit too much for me, so we brought Tara to Marina Square last night. Met up with Cindy for dinner (she happened to be at Bugis). I couldn't finish my favourite Chicken with Texas Sauce from Cafe Cartel, and halfway through my dinner, I felt the rumbling feeling again. I thought it's my diarrhea coming back, but luckily it didn't. Well, although I managed to lost 1kg (think it's water), but it's not fun to be stuck in the toilet the whole day.
While we were doing a last hour window shop at Home-Fix, Tara started making loud noises, Bob and me just thought she wanted our attention. While we were ready to go, Bob noticed something on the pram cushion, Tara had pooed! Onto the pram!! In a panic mode, I rushed her to the toilet, while I'm trying to find the baby room, I saw Tara playing with her poo and putting her fingers into her mouth. Eeeuuuurrrrgggg! She was in such a mess that we've got to use the sink to bath her. It was quite cold but we've got no choice. Poor Tara, she caught my diarrhea bug. I just hope Cyrus did not catch the bug from Tara because throughout the dinner, both of them kept kissing each other, lip to lip.
Anyway, I'm back at work today, yes, I work 5.5 days a week. Still feeling weak, but can cope. But the drive to work wasn't that smooth, cos I'm still feeling dizzy spells. But I'll make my way home safely. No sweat.
Actually, I took leave on the 1st day. Tara woke us up in the middle of the night with her loud belching sounds. Knowing that she was going to puke, I instinctively place my hand under her mouth to hold her vomit. Yup, gross! She fussed a little while I changed and cleaned her and fell asleep soon after. After about 10mins, the belching sounds came again. It went on for a few more times and by the time we can get our rest, it's almost 5 plus in the morning. Tired and beaten, I took leave for the day. Even Bob had runs the whole night, making countless trips to the toilet. We wondered if it's the food we ate at some fish restaurant. Tara ate some fish too.
We brought her to the paeds at Tiong Bahru. I started to feel discomfort, bit of gastric and stomachache but nothing happened till the next morning. Since 7am in the morning till 12 midnight, I went to the toilet 12 times, had a low grade fever, slight gastric pains, mild nausea and severe giddiness. I couldn't even stand up to shower. Went to see Kelly and was given MC for 2 days.
Being the very "outdoor" person I am, being stuck at home for 3 days is a bit too much for me, so we brought Tara to Marina Square last night. Met up with Cindy for dinner (she happened to be at Bugis). I couldn't finish my favourite Chicken with Texas Sauce from Cafe Cartel, and halfway through my dinner, I felt the rumbling feeling again. I thought it's my diarrhea coming back, but luckily it didn't. Well, although I managed to lost 1kg (think it's water), but it's not fun to be stuck in the toilet the whole day.
While we were doing a last hour window shop at Home-Fix, Tara started making loud noises, Bob and me just thought she wanted our attention. While we were ready to go, Bob noticed something on the pram cushion, Tara had pooed! Onto the pram!! In a panic mode, I rushed her to the toilet, while I'm trying to find the baby room, I saw Tara playing with her poo and putting her fingers into her mouth. Eeeuuuurrrrgggg! She was in such a mess that we've got to use the sink to bath her. It was quite cold but we've got no choice. Poor Tara, she caught my diarrhea bug. I just hope Cyrus did not catch the bug from Tara because throughout the dinner, both of them kept kissing each other, lip to lip.
Anyway, I'm back at work today, yes, I work 5.5 days a week. Still feeling weak, but can cope. But the drive to work wasn't that smooth, cos I'm still feeling dizzy spells. But I'll make my way home safely. No sweat.
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
New layout! Wonderful Christmas
Love the new photo layout I created. Thanks to Melissa for giving me the idea.
Had a wonderful Christmas party at my place yesterday. Enjoyed myself throughly! And this Christmas, I got lots of nice gifts. So very happy! Will blog with photos soon.
Had a wonderful Christmas party at my place yesterday. Enjoyed myself throughly! And this Christmas, I got lots of nice gifts. So very happy! Will blog with photos soon.
Christmas Day & Christmas Gifts
I would always open up my presents on Christmas Eve, because I just can’t wait till Christmas Day.
I made sure that I’ve wrapped up every single present, take a photo of the Christmas tree before I allow Bob and Tara to open theirs.
Tara received 3 gifts from me, and 1 from Bob. Bob got 2 gifts from me and I got 1 from him. A week before, I walked out of the study room and realized there’s an extra present under the tree and saw my name on it. Happy and excited, I knelt in front of the tree to examine the haphazardly wrapped up gift (well, guys). I remembered I told Bob I wanted to get a blue tooth. The small box kind of convinced me that it might be a blue tooth. Although I’m already rejoicing in my heart, I told myself not to hold my hopes too high, because knowing Bob, he’s just one guy whose mind I can’t read and who can’t read mine either.
Bob taught Tara how to tear up the wrappings and cute little Tara was enjoying so much. Every piece of paper she tore, she would pass to Bob. I think she enjoyed tearing up the wrapping rather than getting the gift because even though she can clearly see the toy underneath, she didn’t get excited and was adamant that the present be stripped totally. Very cute.
Tara received a sort-of doggie piano, a toy mobile phone and a set of Mother goose VCD and books from me and a Leapfrog LeapPad from Bob. I’ve always wanted to get the LeapPad for Tara so when I saw the gift, I whooped with joy! Mummy was more excited than the kid!
Bob got a set of Topman boxers and a Polo Ralph polo tee shirt from me whereas I received a box of SKII mask from him. Yup, it’s not the Bluetooth that I thought, but nevertheless, I was thrilled to get the mask too. Bob knew that I was running out of the masks and decided to get it for me. I just hope that he won’t be getting this for me on every single occasion.
This Christmas was the happiest one I had. I love all the gifts I received this year! Cheryl got me 2 books; Life Swap by Jane Green (my wish list!) and Chicken Soup for Every Mom’s Soul. Angela bought me a book by Jamie Oliver (another wish list)! Cindy got me a necklace which I was eyeing for weeks, Sis gave me a set of mask from Forever Living, which I told her I wanted to buy but couldn’t bear to as it’s not that cheap. My Sales Director bought me a cute cushion from Zed & Zee but I can’t seem to find it after the party. I also received a cute key chain from Jaime.
I’m looking forward to next year’s Christmas already!
I made sure that I’ve wrapped up every single present, take a photo of the Christmas tree before I allow Bob and Tara to open theirs.
Tara received 3 gifts from me, and 1 from Bob. Bob got 2 gifts from me and I got 1 from him. A week before, I walked out of the study room and realized there’s an extra present under the tree and saw my name on it. Happy and excited, I knelt in front of the tree to examine the haphazardly wrapped up gift (well, guys). I remembered I told Bob I wanted to get a blue tooth. The small box kind of convinced me that it might be a blue tooth. Although I’m already rejoicing in my heart, I told myself not to hold my hopes too high, because knowing Bob, he’s just one guy whose mind I can’t read and who can’t read mine either.
Bob taught Tara how to tear up the wrappings and cute little Tara was enjoying so much. Every piece of paper she tore, she would pass to Bob. I think she enjoyed tearing up the wrapping rather than getting the gift because even though she can clearly see the toy underneath, she didn’t get excited and was adamant that the present be stripped totally. Very cute.
Tara received a sort-of doggie piano, a toy mobile phone and a set of Mother goose VCD and books from me and a Leapfrog LeapPad from Bob. I’ve always wanted to get the LeapPad for Tara so when I saw the gift, I whooped with joy! Mummy was more excited than the kid!
Bob got a set of Topman boxers and a Polo Ralph polo tee shirt from me whereas I received a box of SKII mask from him. Yup, it’s not the Bluetooth that I thought, but nevertheless, I was thrilled to get the mask too. Bob knew that I was running out of the masks and decided to get it for me. I just hope that he won’t be getting this for me on every single occasion.This Christmas was the happiest one I had. I love all the gifts I received this year! Cheryl got me 2 books; Life Swap by Jane Green (my wish list!) and Chicken Soup for Every Mom’s Soul. Angela bought me a book by Jamie Oliver (another wish list)! Cindy got me a necklace which I was eyeing for weeks, Sis gave me a set of mask from Forever Living, which I told her I wanted to buy but couldn’t bear to as it’s not that cheap. My Sales Director bought me a cute cushion from Zed & Zee but I can’t seem to find it after the party. I also received a cute key chain from Jaime.
I’m looking forward to next year’s Christmas already!Christmas Party!
This year, we held the party at my place. Jaime told us we have excess money in our funds and we decided to order turkey and log cake to indulge. Trying to be gung ho, I offered to roast the turkey, since the ordered ones will be too big for the 8 (suppose to be 10, but 2 MIA) to finish, and from what I heard, will be too cold and tough to chew.
1 week before the party, I bought the small turkey and 2 types of stuffing. Actually 1 stuffing will suffice but it's my first time, I don't know which is good. But eventually, I didn't use both, it's a waste of money, and they are now sitting in my fridge, waiting for my next course of action (which is most probably to chuck it). I surfed the internet for recipes to cook the turkey, and I start to panic. I don't know which recipe is good, I don't know how the turkey will turn out and I kind of regret taking up the task. I finally decided on this one, and started buying the ingredients. The other day, I picked up the recipe to read (for the umpteenth time), and heard Bob telling Tara that mummy is nervous already, and go on to tell me to just order a turkey instead of stressing myself out. I put on a brave front and said “It’s just like roasting a chicken what!”, which of course, couldn’t convince even myself.
The morning before the party, I thaw the turkey in the fridge. It takes more than 24 hours to thaw.
On the day of the party, I woke up at 8.40am to prepare the turkey. Preparations didn’t take me long, as I omitted quite a big part of the recipe. By 10am, the turkey was roasting in the oven and I start to chop up the ingredients for the cream of mushroom soup, a recipe I found here.
Sis and Angela arrived first. Sis didn’t know how busy I was and just chucked me with the ingredients for her carrot and potato mash. I haven’t even tidy up the hall! Fortunately, Angela was there to help. She even helped me with the mushroom soup. What an angel! I think that’s why her name is Angela, hehe.
Everyone else arrived by 12.30pm. I told them to leave all the presents under the Christmas tree. Somehow, I believe that presents under the Christmas tree will be blessed.
We had the most sumptuous and fun Christmas party this year. All the food was yummy and my mushroom soup received rave reviews! The turkey turned out fine. Angela prepared chocolate fondue! How evil is that! Well, she almost always prepares evil stuff which we can’t resist.
For the gift exchange, Audrey got my Mphosis slippers whereas I got a set of towel and purses from Cindy. I bought everyone a bath lily each and received extra presents from Angela, Cindy, Sis and Jaime.
I think the kids are the happiest lot this Christmas, they are showered with so many gifts. Makes me wanna be a kid again. Everyone enjoyed themselves and I’m kind of looking forward to the next Christmas party already!
1 week before the party, I bought the small turkey and 2 types of stuffing. Actually 1 stuffing will suffice but it's my first time, I don't know which is good. But eventually, I didn't use both, it's a waste of money, and they are now sitting in my fridge, waiting for my next course of action (which is most probably to chuck it). I surfed the internet for recipes to cook the turkey, and I start to panic. I don't know which recipe is good, I don't know how the turkey will turn out and I kind of regret taking up the task. I finally decided on this one, and started buying the ingredients. The other day, I picked up the recipe to read (for the umpteenth time), and heard Bob telling Tara that mummy is nervous already, and go on to tell me to just order a turkey instead of stressing myself out. I put on a brave front and said “It’s just like roasting a chicken what!”, which of course, couldn’t convince even myself.
The morning before the party, I thaw the turkey in the fridge. It takes more than 24 hours to thaw.
On the day of the party, I woke up at 8.40am to prepare the turkey. Preparations didn’t take me long, as I omitted quite a big part of the recipe. By 10am, the turkey was roasting in the oven and I start to chop up the ingredients for the cream of mushroom soup, a recipe I found here.
Sis and Angela arrived first. Sis didn’t know how busy I was and just chucked me with the ingredients for her carrot and potato mash. I haven’t even tidy up the hall! Fortunately, Angela was there to help. She even helped me with the mushroom soup. What an angel! I think that’s why her name is Angela, hehe.
Everyone else arrived by 12.30pm. I told them to leave all the presents under the Christmas tree. Somehow, I believe that presents under the Christmas tree will be blessed.
We had the most sumptuous and fun Christmas party this year. All the food was yummy and my mushroom soup received rave reviews! The turkey turned out fine. Angela prepared chocolate fondue! How evil is that! Well, she almost always prepares evil stuff which we can’t resist.
For the gift exchange, Audrey got my Mphosis slippers whereas I got a set of towel and purses from Cindy. I bought everyone a bath lily each and received extra presents from Angela, Cindy, Sis and Jaime.
I think the kids are the happiest lot this Christmas, they are showered with so many gifts. Makes me wanna be a kid again. Everyone enjoyed themselves and I’m kind of looking forward to the next Christmas party already!
Sunday, December 25, 2005
Talia's Birthday!
A back log post of Talia's birthday!
Gene invited us to Talia's first birthday last Saturday. I had intended to go Jurong Point for the Drypers cum Class 95 event but it's never my habit to turn down an invitation.
When we reached, Talia was walking a little, it's so cute, she's so petite and it's quite fun to watch such a small toddler walking! Surprisingly, Tara wasn't fazed by the new surroundings nor the unfamiliar faces there. She started playing beside Talia, who was busy pushing a little basket of party toys around.
Talia's Strawberry Shortcake birthday cake was so pretty, and really tasty. It's only after everyone had sang the birthday song, did they realised that the candle was not lit. A rather candid but memorable moment. The part when Talia cut the cake was really cute, she held the plastic knife and started sawing away.
Gene invited us to Talia's first birthday last Saturday. I had intended to go Jurong Point for the Drypers cum Class 95 event but it's never my habit to turn down an invitation.
When we reached, Talia was walking a little, it's so cute, she's so petite and it's quite fun to watch such a small toddler walking! Surprisingly, Tara wasn't fazed by the new surroundings nor the unfamiliar faces there. She started playing beside Talia, who was busy pushing a little basket of party toys around.
Talia's Strawberry Shortcake birthday cake was so pretty, and really tasty. It's only after everyone had sang the birthday song, did they realised that the candle was not lit. A rather candid but memorable moment. The part when Talia cut the cake was really cute, she held the plastic knife and started sawing away.
Saturday, December 24, 2005
It's Christmas! Ho ho ho..
My favourite time of the year, Chinese New Year used to be my favourite, until I have to start giving out ang baos. Those I collected last year don't count, cos they don't belong to me. Every single penny goes to my little girl's own savings account.
Anyway, MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE! Hope you have a wonderful Christmas with lots of nice gifts.
Anyway, MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE! Hope you have a wonderful Christmas with lots of nice gifts.
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Stress
I’m sitting on the edge of my seat. I can’t relax. I’m super stressed out now. I don't usually blog about my work, but sitting here doing nothing makes me feel even worse.
I just clinched a major deal and should be really happy, but I’m not. Nothing really went smoothly since day 1. The client kept raising her voice at me, and I got to appease her with a nice log cake. The boss kept pressuring me to get all the important stuff to be done before I can proceed with anything else. I’m stuck in between, and could barely breathe.
My colleagues tried to joke with me as usual, but couldn’t get the normal reaction out of me. I just stared at them blankly and walk away. And I just told one of them to stop joking with me, I can’t laugh at all. I’ve never, ever felt this kind of stress and it leaves me wondering, is it worth it? I was told it’s the biggest job in my company’s history. That didn’t make me smile either. I just hope that the payment comes in on time, at least when I see my commission cheque on the 15th, I will know that it’s worth it and I can pat myself on my back. Well, maybe I’ll just pray first, that the job will be delivered on time.
I’m usually calm when it comes to work. Even if problems cropped up, it won’t faze me at all. I mean, even if you start ranting at anyone and everyone, it will not make things right. But this time, I specifically told the production people NO MISTAKES ALLOWED. Yes, in capital, bold and underlined. It’s this serious. Very serious. One mistake and everything will go in disarray.
Nothing bad must happen. That’s why I’m so stressed.
It’s 6.31pm now. I’m supposed to meet up the client at Orchard later, after the proof is ready. Today will be a long day. Just hope I will be able to see Tara before she sleeps tonight.
I just clinched a major deal and should be really happy, but I’m not. Nothing really went smoothly since day 1. The client kept raising her voice at me, and I got to appease her with a nice log cake. The boss kept pressuring me to get all the important stuff to be done before I can proceed with anything else. I’m stuck in between, and could barely breathe.
My colleagues tried to joke with me as usual, but couldn’t get the normal reaction out of me. I just stared at them blankly and walk away. And I just told one of them to stop joking with me, I can’t laugh at all. I’ve never, ever felt this kind of stress and it leaves me wondering, is it worth it? I was told it’s the biggest job in my company’s history. That didn’t make me smile either. I just hope that the payment comes in on time, at least when I see my commission cheque on the 15th, I will know that it’s worth it and I can pat myself on my back. Well, maybe I’ll just pray first, that the job will be delivered on time.
I’m usually calm when it comes to work. Even if problems cropped up, it won’t faze me at all. I mean, even if you start ranting at anyone and everyone, it will not make things right. But this time, I specifically told the production people NO MISTAKES ALLOWED. Yes, in capital, bold and underlined. It’s this serious. Very serious. One mistake and everything will go in disarray.
Nothing bad must happen. That’s why I’m so stressed.
It’s 6.31pm now. I’m supposed to meet up the client at Orchard later, after the proof is ready. Today will be a long day. Just hope I will be able to see Tara before she sleeps tonight.
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Another 2 tasks checked!
Slept at 4am this morning, just to complete 2 tasks:
1) Upload all back log photos for Tara's birthday blog.
2) Post up the birthday decorations used on Tara's birthday for auction.
*Yawn...*
1) Upload all back log photos for Tara's birthday blog.
2) Post up the birthday decorations used on Tara's birthday for auction.
*Yawn...*
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
The Other Woman
This book by Jane Green, is oh so good. It tells you that you are not the only person in this world who couldn't get along with your MILs.
For those who can't seem to fathom why there is this hatred (oh too serious), or dislike (that's a better word) towards their MILs, this is the book for you.
Up till now, I still cannot understand why MILs love to get involved in their sons' lives, especially when they are already married and have a family of their own. And the strange thing is, the still single sons, who would have deserve more attention, are the ones being left alone. If the MILs thought that they are the only person in the world that can do a better job than their DILs, then they are oh-so-wrong.
Anyway, read this book. It's really interesting. Ellie is definitely someone I can relate to. My sister, after reading it, told me that it's almost exactly what had happened to me. You want to know what happen? Hmmz.. read the book.
For those who can't seem to fathom why there is this hatred (oh too serious), or dislike (that's a better word) towards their MILs, this is the book for you.
Up till now, I still cannot understand why MILs love to get involved in their sons' lives, especially when they are already married and have a family of their own. And the strange thing is, the still single sons, who would have deserve more attention, are the ones being left alone. If the MILs thought that they are the only person in the world that can do a better job than their DILs, then they are oh-so-wrong.
Anyway, read this book. It's really interesting. Ellie is definitely someone I can relate to. My sister, after reading it, told me that it's almost exactly what had happened to me. You want to know what happen? Hmmz.. read the book.
Monday, December 05, 2005
I got a Tag Box!
Thanks to Gene, I found a better alternative to Tagboard, which I encountered lots of problems when I tried to register. Since I don't have a comment box, I guess this is a better alternative to communicate with you all out there. Come on! Send me something!
Sunday, December 04, 2005
Some good news to share
This November was a happy month for me. Some good news to share!
First, Jenny from my gang 61 got married! She held her wedding at Holiday Inn Park View. The whole ballroom decor has an old English feel. And they have the funniest first course presentation I've ever seen. The wait staff came in pairs, gal would hook her hand around the guy's arm and each holding the dish on the other hand. The last pair of wait staff was the best-looking of the lot. Just when we thought the presentation was over, the door was closed once again and the song "Macarena" came on, door opened and a chef with a bulging tummy danced into the ballroom! He went around the tables and poked his tummy at the guests. It was hilarious! And it's not the end yet, the chef later went on the stage and together with the best-looking pair of wait staff, started doing the macarena dance, while holding the dish. Oh man, I laugh so hard, I almost fell off my chair. Kudos to the guy who choreographed the presentation. And the couple look so beautiful together. When they walk down the aisle, I feel so touched, I almost tear. Congrats to you once again, Jenny & Chou Nen!
At Jenny's wedding
I enrolled Tara in the Best Photogenic Baby Contest (Held by Parent Pick magazine) and she got a consolation! Angela, Sis, Shermaine and Javier went to support her. It's the first time she won a contest! So happy.
Tara was sleeping when I went on stage to receive the prize
The picture that got her the consolation prize
Prize hamper and a nice trophy
And lastly, end of November means December is coming! My favorite month! The month where Christmas songs, Christmas presents, Christmas Tree and Christmas feast always make me so, so happy! I bought a new Christmas album too, but it's erm, too oldies for my liking. Must get another one. I've already bought 3 gifts for Tara and 1 for Bob, gonna get a couple more for Bob too. Sad, none of the presents under the Christmas Tree belong to me. Anyway, I've also set up the tree and bought a new round round decor which I hang on my front door. So Christmasy! I'm gonna get a few stockings to hang in the house too. The gang will be celebrating Christmas at my place this year.
First, Jenny from my gang 61 got married! She held her wedding at Holiday Inn Park View. The whole ballroom decor has an old English feel. And they have the funniest first course presentation I've ever seen. The wait staff came in pairs, gal would hook her hand around the guy's arm and each holding the dish on the other hand. The last pair of wait staff was the best-looking of the lot. Just when we thought the presentation was over, the door was closed once again and the song "Macarena" came on, door opened and a chef with a bulging tummy danced into the ballroom! He went around the tables and poked his tummy at the guests. It was hilarious! And it's not the end yet, the chef later went on the stage and together with the best-looking pair of wait staff, started doing the macarena dance, while holding the dish. Oh man, I laugh so hard, I almost fell off my chair. Kudos to the guy who choreographed the presentation. And the couple look so beautiful together. When they walk down the aisle, I feel so touched, I almost tear. Congrats to you once again, Jenny & Chou Nen!
At Jenny's wedding
I enrolled Tara in the Best Photogenic Baby Contest (Held by Parent Pick magazine) and she got a consolation! Angela, Sis, Shermaine and Javier went to support her. It's the first time she won a contest! So happy.
Tara was sleeping when I went on stage to receive the prize
The picture that got her the consolation prize
Prize hamper and a nice trophy
And lastly, end of November means December is coming! My favorite month! The month where Christmas songs, Christmas presents, Christmas Tree and Christmas feast always make me so, so happy! I bought a new Christmas album too, but it's erm, too oldies for my liking. Must get another one. I've already bought 3 gifts for Tara and 1 for Bob, gonna get a couple more for Bob too. Sad, none of the presents under the Christmas Tree belong to me. Anyway, I've also set up the tree and bought a new round round decor which I hang on my front door. So Christmasy! I'm gonna get a few stockings to hang in the house too. The gang will be celebrating Christmas at my place this year.
Saturday, December 03, 2005
Miss Hong made my day
Miss Hong really made my day today. This morning, I received an email from her, congratulating me, told me Tara had won the cutest kid contest. I was puzzled, I checked the website and my email but found nothing that says results. I emailed her again, and said there isn't any annoucement. Minutes later, she replied me, saying I'm a blur queen mummy, and told me it's already in the mothercare website.
I scratch my head, Mothercare? Why is Mothercare annoucing the result? So I decided to click on the link she gave me.
I almost fell off the chair! I laugh and laugh until I almost die.
This is the mothercare website with Tara's picture.
And this is the cutest kid contest website with Tara's picture.
I'll be damn if the mothercare Tara is my kid.
I scratch my head, Mothercare? Why is Mothercare annoucing the result? So I decided to click on the link she gave me.
I almost fell off the chair! I laugh and laugh until I almost die.
This is the mothercare website with Tara's picture.
And this is the cutest kid contest website with Tara's picture.
I'll be damn if the mothercare Tara is my kid.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Conversation between daddy and his little girl
Tara: Wahwahwahwahwahwahwahwahwah..
Daddy: Wahwahwahwahwahwahwahwahwah..
Tara: Wahwahwah..
Daddy: Wahwahwah
Tara: Wahwah?
Daddy: Wahwah?
Mummy: *Laughing away*
After 5 mins.. the conversation still goes on…
Tara: Wahwahwahwahwahwahwahwahwah…
Daddy: Wahwahwahwahwahwahwahwahwah…
Mummy: Aiyo.. (slightly irritated).
Another 2 mins..
Tara: Wahwahwah..
Mummy: Darling, stop it. You are getting on mummy’s nerves already.
Daddy: Wahwahwah.
Mummy: Hey dear, you stop it too okay? Just ignore her alright?
Tara: Wahwahwah
She hasn’t give up.
Daddy: Wahwahwah..
He hasn’t give up either.
Mummy: I’m going crazy already! Dear, stop it!!
We were on our way to pick up MIL. Minutes later, MIL in the car..
Tara: Wahwahwahwah…
MIL: Hahahah.. Wahwahwahwahwah…
Mummy: Arrrgggghhhhhhhhh………!!!!
Daddy: Wahwahwahwahwahwahwahwahwah..
Tara: Wahwahwah..
Daddy: Wahwahwah
Tara: Wahwah?
Daddy: Wahwah?
Mummy: *Laughing away*
After 5 mins.. the conversation still goes on…
Tara: Wahwahwahwahwahwahwahwahwah…
Daddy: Wahwahwahwahwahwahwahwahwah…
Mummy: Aiyo.. (slightly irritated).
Another 2 mins..
Tara: Wahwahwah..
Mummy: Darling, stop it. You are getting on mummy’s nerves already.
Daddy: Wahwahwah.
Mummy: Hey dear, you stop it too okay? Just ignore her alright?
Tara: Wahwahwah
She hasn’t give up.
Daddy: Wahwahwah..
He hasn’t give up either.
Mummy: I’m going crazy already! Dear, stop it!!
We were on our way to pick up MIL. Minutes later, MIL in the car..
Tara: Wahwahwahwah…
MIL: Hahahah.. Wahwahwahwahwah…
Mummy: Arrrgggghhhhhhhhh………!!!!
Tara’s Milestone @ 1 year
Haiz.. I procrastinate on Tara’s milestone update at 11 months, gotta update for both months now. Haiz.. lazy mummy. I shall do it in point form.
- New words in Tara’s vocabulary, “where?” and “olio”, don’t know where she learn olio from. Maybe she knows mummy loves to eat aglio olio? Nah, she’s just making sounds, but I’m sure “where” is one new word she’s been blabbering a lot lately. And one more, "mum mum". She's not calling me, she's calling for food.
- Since 11 month, she learnt how to stand up by herself, without support. She would applaud at her own effort, and fell on her butt almost immediately because she’s been clapping too vigorously.
- Tara learnt that if she refuses anything, she just need to shake her head. So when she doesn't want milk, doesn't want a particular person to carry, doesn't want to drink water, she just need to shake her head and we will all understand. And she's been so hung up on this new skill of hers, she's practically shaking her head as if she's high on some drugs. And shaking her head at almost everything.
- She also understand what I meant when I said no. When she tried to pull the newspapers, rummage the drawers, go into the study, pull down books from the shelves, I will give a stern look, said "NO!" and she will understand. Most times, she will just scurry away, looking for other stuff to play, and sometimes, like most other babies, she decided she will test my authority. Instead of scolding her, I will distract her with some other stuff. The most effective one was her singing ducky travelling on her choo choo train around the whole house.
- She also understand a few other simple commands. When I offer her milk, I will tell her to hold the bottle and she will do it. When she pull out the bottle before she finished the milk, I will tell her to put the bottle back and she will do it. Bob always tell her to lie on her pillow when he gave her milk, and she will do it.
Friday, November 25, 2005
Tara's 1st Birthday Party!
We held Tara's first birthday party at our place on the 5th of November. I think the effort I spent on the preps can equal to my wedding. 2 months before the date, I've already thought of how to decorate the place. 1 month before, I've started buying the party stuff. Bob wasn't really keen on holding a big party but I told him it's the 1st, and it shall be the best. Though I really want it to be very BIG, and even booked Hard Rock Cafe for the event. 2 things that changed my mind, limited budget and sucked service (which I don't wish to comment further). It sounded really cool to hold the party at HRC, but it will cost me $20 per pax, with only 6 items of finger food and unlimited soft drinks, which is the only perk. I intend to invite over 80, which will cost me more than 1,600. So eventually, I still ended up holding it at my place, with the same cost, but food is so much better. The only thing I hated is the cleaning up.
Most of those who said they are coming, came. Lots of presents and ang baos for Tara. I gave the kids goodie bags with tidbits and also a set of colouring book and colour pencils. For the younger kiddos, they have goodie bags too, but with baby friendly snacks as well as harmless, non-toxic "rattle" (I don't know how to call that).
I ordered a 3D brown bear cake that turned pink. It's my fault. I should not have said anything about changing the colour of the bear to pink (to suit the theme). I did tell the person taking my order to keep the colour of the bear and just change the cake itself to pink (well, there's a small cake in front of the bear). Miscommunication always happens. I was very disappointed with the pink, it's so.. so.. 80s. My cousin, whom I met once a year, carried her daughter over, looked at the cake and said (to her daughter), "the cake colour not so nice hor?". Arggh..
And did I mention that the whole theme was pink? I bought metallic pink balloons with pink strings to tie. (Some silver ones for the boys, pink is too girlish for them). Every piece of the decor was in pink, even the table cover. And yes, the serviettes, plates and cups are also pink. I didn't buy any pink forks and spoons because I've already busted my budget big time.
Bob got 2 cylinders of helium for the balloon. Cheryl took leave to help me out. Everything went without a hitch (except for the cake). I apologize to all who came, I'm so busy and couldn't really talked to everyone. Thanks for the gifts and ang baos. Now Tara got so many toys and clothes to last her for the next 1 year! She had fun unwrapping the gifts too.
It's so much fun, I don't mind doing it again. *wink*
Most of those who said they are coming, came. Lots of presents and ang baos for Tara. I gave the kids goodie bags with tidbits and also a set of colouring book and colour pencils. For the younger kiddos, they have goodie bags too, but with baby friendly snacks as well as harmless, non-toxic "rattle" (I don't know how to call that).
I ordered a 3D brown bear cake that turned pink. It's my fault. I should not have said anything about changing the colour of the bear to pink (to suit the theme). I did tell the person taking my order to keep the colour of the bear and just change the cake itself to pink (well, there's a small cake in front of the bear). Miscommunication always happens. I was very disappointed with the pink, it's so.. so.. 80s. My cousin, whom I met once a year, carried her daughter over, looked at the cake and said (to her daughter), "the cake colour not so nice hor?". Arggh..
And did I mention that the whole theme was pink? I bought metallic pink balloons with pink strings to tie. (Some silver ones for the boys, pink is too girlish for them). Every piece of the decor was in pink, even the table cover. And yes, the serviettes, plates and cups are also pink. I didn't buy any pink forks and spoons because I've already busted my budget big time.
Bob got 2 cylinders of helium for the balloon. Cheryl took leave to help me out. Everything went without a hitch (except for the cake). I apologize to all who came, I'm so busy and couldn't really talked to everyone. Thanks for the gifts and ang baos. Now Tara got so many toys and clothes to last her for the next 1 year! She had fun unwrapping the gifts too.
It's so much fun, I don't mind doing it again. *wink*
Anyway, I've finally managed to upload all the photos! Thanks to the speed of my new Singnet broadband, everything is done in a cool 5 mins, compared to the usual 1 min per image previously. What can I say? Nothing to complain.... yet.
In front of the lift landing
Corridor leading to my house, fully decorated with helium-filled ballons
The spread
Entrance to my house
My dining, decorated with balloons too!
Tara and her birthday cake
Blow the candles
Tara's birthday presents
Tara's favourite birthday gift
A little Disney fire truck, comes complete with a firemen's helmet
I designed this invite card, mass emailed to my friends and realised a grammar error. *sign*
Designed a thank you card too. Emailed to all my friends after the party. And yup, it's pink too!
Jumping
My office is situated in a building that is almost as old as my hubby (he’s 33). There are 4 very old and battered cargo lifts in each building.
When I first started work here, Cheryl told me if I should use the cargo lift and the doors refused to close, I just need to jump and stomp hard to make it budge.
The other day, one of my client and I was using one of the cargo lift. I pressed the button, the doors didn’t close, so I did what Cheryl told me, I just jumped and stomped and keep pressing the button, trying to make the doors close (there's no close door button, to close the doors, have to press the level buttons). My client looked at me, puzzled and said, “Amy, what you doing? And why you keep pressing 7 (the button)? We are going down what!”
I was on level 7.
When I first started work here, Cheryl told me if I should use the cargo lift and the doors refused to close, I just need to jump and stomp hard to make it budge.
The other day, one of my client and I was using one of the cargo lift. I pressed the button, the doors didn’t close, so I did what Cheryl told me, I just jumped and stomped and keep pressing the button, trying to make the doors close (there's no close door button, to close the doors, have to press the level buttons). My client looked at me, puzzled and said, “Amy, what you doing? And why you keep pressing 7 (the button)? We are going down what!”
I was on level 7.
Saturday, November 19, 2005
When you least expected it
Conversation between me and my male colleague (MC).
Me: Hey, my menses came. Damn, look what I’m wearing today! (a white skirt). Heng I didn’t stain it.
MC: You mean you don’t know when it’s coming?
Me: No lah, I’m always not regular.
MC: Then how? Did you bring anything?
Me: Nope, and damn I’m wearing a bloody thong. (means I can’t borrow pad). Now I can’t sit down.
Minutes later, standing over my desk and typing…
MC: Hey, sit down lah! (Sniggering away)
Me: Hey, shut up okay!
MC: You need a stopper or not?
Me: Damn, I got a bigger stopper here alright? (Waving my mineral bottle at him).
MC: No… I mean THE stopper.
I walked over to his desk and he whipped out a tampon, which I gave him months ago, for him to “explore” (in a technical way hor).
Me: Hope it's not contaminated. You are my saviour, man…*Laughing hysterically* Thank you ah!! (As I was walking out the office).
MC: Hey, not so loud please. People will thought why you thanking me.
Me: You are the last person in this office I expect to have a tampon leh. Wahahahahaha….
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Vote for Tara!
Being the very kiasu mother, I've entered Tara in a Cutest Kid Competition. To vote for Tara, you have to click on this link. Search for Tara's cute little photo, click on it and you will be directed to your email program, after which you can just click send.
Alternatively, you can just send an email to cutestkid@tangerined.com with subject: CK Tara and send.
I'm trying to garner as many votes as possible. Hence, would appreciate if you all can give me and Tara your vote of support. Only limited to 1 email per account (Fair right?). But if you should have many email accounts, please, do use them all.
Your vote will be a nice belated birthday present to Tara. Muacks!
Alternatively, you can just send an email to cutestkid@tangerined.com with subject: CK Tara and send.
I'm trying to garner as many votes as possible. Hence, would appreciate if you all can give me and Tara your vote of support. Only limited to 1 email per account (Fair right?). But if you should have many email accounts, please, do use them all.
Your vote will be a nice belated birthday present to Tara. Muacks!
Friday, November 11, 2005
On Tara’s Birthday
I had intended to bring her to Snoopy’s Place in Plaza Singapura, but I have no idea that the restaurant had closed down. Boy, am I disappointed. Eventually, we settled for Manhattan’s Fish Market on level 6. It’s not the best place to celebrate her birthday but I can’t think of anywhere else to go.
Bob and I shared a Platter for Two, much like Fish & Co.’s seafood platter for 2, while we ordered a Fishnet – kid’s size fish & chips – for Tara. The presentation of the platter was quite different, the waiter will bring out the platter and flamed it right in front of us, using a can of what looks like aerosol. Of course it’s not, but I don’t know what that is.
Verdict on the platter, 6 out of 10. By the time we finished, Bob felt nauseous, because everything is deep fried. Unlike Fish & Co.’s platter, which we can finish every single grain of the rice.
Anyway, Tara enjoyed her Fish & Chips a lot (without the crust of course). She finished the whole piece by herself! Amazing! And we can bring the kid’s menu home too. I’m gonna put it in her little album.
Last year 11th November, I gave birth to my little angel. I can’t help it, and kept smiling at the thought of how time flies. In the early hours of 11th – after the clock strike 12 - , Bob sang a birthday song to her while she sleep, and whispered to her, saying Mummy was in a lot of pain - while trying to give birth to her - at this time last year. Hey, that is so sweet..
Bob and I shared a Platter for Two, much like Fish & Co.’s seafood platter for 2, while we ordered a Fishnet – kid’s size fish & chips – for Tara. The presentation of the platter was quite different, the waiter will bring out the platter and flamed it right in front of us, using a can of what looks like aerosol. Of course it’s not, but I don’t know what that is.
Verdict on the platter, 6 out of 10. By the time we finished, Bob felt nauseous, because everything is deep fried. Unlike Fish & Co.’s platter, which we can finish every single grain of the rice.
Anyway, Tara enjoyed her Fish & Chips a lot (without the crust of course). She finished the whole piece by herself! Amazing! And we can bring the kid’s menu home too. I’m gonna put it in her little album.
Last year 11th November, I gave birth to my little angel. I can’t help it, and kept smiling at the thought of how time flies. In the early hours of 11th – after the clock strike 12 - , Bob sang a birthday song to her while she sleep, and whispered to her, saying Mummy was in a lot of pain - while trying to give birth to her - at this time last year. Hey, that is so sweet..
Thursday, November 10, 2005
No more comments
I've decided to remove the comments, since I don't always get one. But if you should need to leave one, please email me okay?
My day “off”
Wednesdays have unofficially become my “off” days, when I will leave Tara in the care of Bob or my ILs (when they are around), and find a nice place to catch up on some reading or maybe some lone shopping.
I spent my first off-day last Wednesday, reading at West Coast Park’s McCafe. I almost cracked my skull trying to think of a place that has large cushy sofas, nice ambience for reading and not thousands of miles away from home. Places I thought of are either too far, too noisy, too crowded or parking charges are crazy.
Yesterday was my second day off of the month, I finally thought of the perfect place, Book Café, at a quiet corner of Mohd Sultan and Martin Road. I’ve been there a few times, with ex-colleagues or friends, and I quite like the place. But as of yesterday, I fell in love totally.
It’s the perfect place for reading! The big cushy sofas are so comfy. The décor are so homey. They have 3 separate areas, outdoor dining, indoor dining and rest-and-relax-on-the-sofa area. Every time I was there, I will be at the outdoor dining area, and yesterday for the first time, I took the sofa seats. Oh man, it’s so comfy I almost fell asleep!
It’s so easy to find parking too, which is another bonus. I put up 2.5 hours of parking coupons and spent 3 hours of therapeutic reading in the café. I love every moment of it! They even have shelves of books and magazines, and even a Mac for free net surfing! The only down point was the music, which I thought was a bit too loud, but maybe it’s my own fault for sitting right beside the bloody speaker. Make it another one, the food is expensive! A plain Caesar salad cost me almost $11 and a double latte at almost $6. Gawd!
All the sofas are 3 seaters, with a few easy chairs surrounding a table. I felt pretty bad occupying such a big area, since I’m alone. I was hoping no one would come over and tell me they need the seats. I’m pretty lucky, only 1 couple eyed my sofa, but they decided to take the indoor dining instead, and the rest of the diners are happy with the outdoor dining.
Like I’ve mentioned, it’s a therapeutic 3 hour reading. I left the café feeling rejuvenated, recharged and very happy. Not sure if anyone noticed a crazy woman smiling to herself along Mohd Sultan yesterday. In fact, I was in such a good mood, I give way to every single faster-driving car on the highway, usually I will just speed up and refuse to get off the lane, haha! I’m sure I will be there next Wednesday too. Ahh.. I can’t wait.
I spent my first off-day last Wednesday, reading at West Coast Park’s McCafe. I almost cracked my skull trying to think of a place that has large cushy sofas, nice ambience for reading and not thousands of miles away from home. Places I thought of are either too far, too noisy, too crowded or parking charges are crazy.
Yesterday was my second day off of the month, I finally thought of the perfect place, Book Café, at a quiet corner of Mohd Sultan and Martin Road. I’ve been there a few times, with ex-colleagues or friends, and I quite like the place. But as of yesterday, I fell in love totally.
It’s the perfect place for reading! The big cushy sofas are so comfy. The décor are so homey. They have 3 separate areas, outdoor dining, indoor dining and rest-and-relax-on-the-sofa area. Every time I was there, I will be at the outdoor dining area, and yesterday for the first time, I took the sofa seats. Oh man, it’s so comfy I almost fell asleep!
It’s so easy to find parking too, which is another bonus. I put up 2.5 hours of parking coupons and spent 3 hours of therapeutic reading in the café. I love every moment of it! They even have shelves of books and magazines, and even a Mac for free net surfing! The only down point was the music, which I thought was a bit too loud, but maybe it’s my own fault for sitting right beside the bloody speaker. Make it another one, the food is expensive! A plain Caesar salad cost me almost $11 and a double latte at almost $6. Gawd!
All the sofas are 3 seaters, with a few easy chairs surrounding a table. I felt pretty bad occupying such a big area, since I’m alone. I was hoping no one would come over and tell me they need the seats. I’m pretty lucky, only 1 couple eyed my sofa, but they decided to take the indoor dining instead, and the rest of the diners are happy with the outdoor dining.
Like I’ve mentioned, it’s a therapeutic 3 hour reading. I left the café feeling rejuvenated, recharged and very happy. Not sure if anyone noticed a crazy woman smiling to herself along Mohd Sultan yesterday. In fact, I was in such a good mood, I give way to every single faster-driving car on the highway, usually I will just speed up and refuse to get off the lane, haha! I’m sure I will be there next Wednesday too. Ahh.. I can’t wait.
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Thanks to Joe!
Thanks to Cindy's Joe, everytime I looked at my phone, I will see either Tara, Bob and/or myself. It's so nice! I love it so much. Well, who doesn't like to look at themselves the whole time? Especially nicely made up and stuff. I can see myself everywhere, from the menu to the calendar to even the box that pops up each time I receive an sms! Cool or what. Joe, you are good, man!
On my wallpaper, my precious Tara.
Pop up box; wedding shot of me, looking serene and demure. Haha.
Bob and me smiling happily, on almost every background of the menu.
Bob and me again, only in the "Go to" icon.
Yup, it's us again, on the calendar!
On my wallpaper, my precious Tara.
Pop up box; wedding shot of me, looking serene and demure. Haha.
Bob and me smiling happily, on almost every background of the menu.
Bob and me again, only in the "Go to" icon.
Yup, it's us again, on the calendar!
My Christmas Wish List
This is my third post today. I'm catching up on loss time, since I didn't blog for the past 10 days.
For anyone and everyone who knows me, and agrees that I've been a good girl this year, and decides to buy me a Christmas present as a nice reward, I have come up with a wish list.
Hehe.. make my Christmas happy yah! Thanks..
For anyone and everyone who knows me, and agrees that I've been a good girl this year, and decides to buy me a Christmas present as a nice reward, I have come up with a wish list.
Hehe.. make my Christmas happy yah! Thanks..
Tagged Again - Weird and Random Facts
Was tagged by Eileen sometime back. Hey gal, sorry that I can only do this now. Busy lah..
Rules of the game:
Post 5 Weird and Random Facts about you, then at the end list the names of 5 people who are next in line to do this:
1. I hate mangoes; the smell reminds me of a wet rag, left in a dark corner of a cupboard for days. Yucks!
2. I must read something when I do my “business”, something, anything! Even town council newsletter is better than nothing.
3. I can yak non-stop with friends and acquaintances but go tongue-tied in front of crowds of strangers. Presentations freak me out!
4. For the benefit of those who always like to judge me, yes, I can cook and yes, I can do sewing, knitting and embroidery, thank you.
5. I can watch the most horror shows without batting an eyelid but go all shaking and shivering when it comes to “Crime Watch”. Funny? You tell me.
I won’t be tagging anyone because the last time I did, both ignored it. And both are the only 2 friends I can tag.
Rules of the game:
Post 5 Weird and Random Facts about you, then at the end list the names of 5 people who are next in line to do this:
1. I hate mangoes; the smell reminds me of a wet rag, left in a dark corner of a cupboard for days. Yucks!
2. I must read something when I do my “business”, something, anything! Even town council newsletter is better than nothing.
3. I can yak non-stop with friends and acquaintances but go tongue-tied in front of crowds of strangers. Presentations freak me out!
4. For the benefit of those who always like to judge me, yes, I can cook and yes, I can do sewing, knitting and embroidery, thank you.
5. I can watch the most horror shows without batting an eyelid but go all shaking and shivering when it comes to “Crime Watch”. Funny? You tell me.
I won’t be tagging anyone because the last time I did, both ignored it. And both are the only 2 friends I can tag.
Bitten by the book bug
In 4 weeks, I read 3 books. I'm a believer by Jessica Adams, Spellbound and Mr Maybe, both by Jane Green. I have a penchant for chick-lit novels, they are very entertaining, makes me laugh. I used to read thrillers and stuff but after Sidney Sheldon – which I’ve read every single book he wrote before I got my ‘O’s – I decided that now, I need something for a change, I need something girlish and relaxing.
Came across “I'm a believer” at MPH and decided to borrow from the library (I don’t usually buy my books, unless its $6 a piece). Oh man, I had a hard time finishing it! Remember I mentioned I read 3 books in 4 weeks? I spent a wasted 3 weeks on this book alone! The storyline was interesting, but the flow of writing was pretty rough, not captivating enough. In fact, I will yawn once every 3 pages. But I happen to be the kind of person who MUST finish a book once I’ve read past the acknowledgements. Darn the principles, and I’m stuck with a boring book while the 7 others waited in one dark corner, till they are almost overdue and I had no choice but to return them.
As for Jane Green, she’s a goddess. She’s so funny that sometimes, I felt so stupid laughing alone, with nobody else beside me, and holding just a book. “Mr Maybe” is so darn close to reality and super funny; I finished it in 3 days straight.
Yesterday, I went on a book-borrowing frenzy. Well, Jane Green doesn’t write that many books to keep me entertained for long right? So I go against my usual “practice” and decided to scour for some nice books. I took every book that has a girlish cover, and with small printed fonts that says "best-selling”. Well, if it’s not best-selling means it’s not “discovered” yet or it’s total crap, and thus shall be ignored.
I went home happily with 5 books, on top of the other 2 I borrowed last week. Thanks to National Library’s “Drop everything and read” campaign, I can borrow up to 8 books, till January 2006. Happy!
Came across “I'm a believer” at MPH and decided to borrow from the library (I don’t usually buy my books, unless its $6 a piece). Oh man, I had a hard time finishing it! Remember I mentioned I read 3 books in 4 weeks? I spent a wasted 3 weeks on this book alone! The storyline was interesting, but the flow of writing was pretty rough, not captivating enough. In fact, I will yawn once every 3 pages. But I happen to be the kind of person who MUST finish a book once I’ve read past the acknowledgements. Darn the principles, and I’m stuck with a boring book while the 7 others waited in one dark corner, till they are almost overdue and I had no choice but to return them.
As for Jane Green, she’s a goddess. She’s so funny that sometimes, I felt so stupid laughing alone, with nobody else beside me, and holding just a book. “Mr Maybe” is so darn close to reality and super funny; I finished it in 3 days straight.
Yesterday, I went on a book-borrowing frenzy. Well, Jane Green doesn’t write that many books to keep me entertained for long right? So I go against my usual “practice” and decided to scour for some nice books. I took every book that has a girlish cover, and with small printed fonts that says "best-selling”. Well, if it’s not best-selling means it’s not “discovered” yet or it’s total crap, and thus shall be ignored.
I went home happily with 5 books, on top of the other 2 I borrowed last week. Thanks to National Library’s “Drop everything and read” campaign, I can borrow up to 8 books, till January 2006. Happy!
Friday, October 28, 2005
Finally..
It's been quite a while since I've last touched the home computer. There's lots of stuff I need to do; Tara's website, new template for my blog, upload images, download fonts etc. The past a week or two, I will be asleep by 11.30pm and I kind of felt pretty bad, for putting off all these stuff and succumb to the comfort of my pillows and duvet instead.
Anyway, in 3 hours and 30 minutes, I (only) managed to do the following:
Anyway, in 3 hours and 30 minutes, I (only) managed to do the following:
- Create a new banner for Tara's website (yet to launch), after making about 5230 amendments. I quite like it now.
- Some little stuff for the sidebar, which I presume I will still make 10,000 changes.
- Downloaded tons of fonts from Font Foundry
Talk about productive or what.
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Karen Cheng
I spent the last few days reading Karen’s blog from the beginning. I’ve been following her blog everyday since June but only recently, I decided to go right to the start. She blogs about happenings on her daily life; shifting into a new house, attending parties and weddings, hubby surviving cancer, her obsession with earrings, taking care of Callum (first born) and giving birth to Sean. It’s very interesting.
Just like Karen, I love to cook too. And sometimes the things that happen to Callum happened to Tara too. I dreamt of growing herbs in my backyard if I have one, but staying in Singapore means it’s not that possible, unless I’m staying in a landed property. And reading about Karen’s nice little garden of rocket lettuce, tomatoes and herbs just makes me so, so envious.
I started to dream, of staying in Australia, where life is not as hectic, houses are bigger and during weekends, there are nice places to bring your kids to. Singapore is pretty boring, I would say. There are not many places to let your kids explore. I’m planning to bring Tara to Animal Farm, Zoo, Bird Park, Botanic Gardens and West Coast Park for picnics. And where else can I go? Shopping? Makan? Oh man!
I felt that life is boring here. Bob prefers to chill out at home every weekend, while I prefer to go somewhere, in fact, anywhere! Even Jurong Point seems like a better option than staying home.
Just like Karen, I love to cook too. And sometimes the things that happen to Callum happened to Tara too. I dreamt of growing herbs in my backyard if I have one, but staying in Singapore means it’s not that possible, unless I’m staying in a landed property. And reading about Karen’s nice little garden of rocket lettuce, tomatoes and herbs just makes me so, so envious.
I started to dream, of staying in Australia, where life is not as hectic, houses are bigger and during weekends, there are nice places to bring your kids to. Singapore is pretty boring, I would say. There are not many places to let your kids explore. I’m planning to bring Tara to Animal Farm, Zoo, Bird Park, Botanic Gardens and West Coast Park for picnics. And where else can I go? Shopping? Makan? Oh man!
I felt that life is boring here. Bob prefers to chill out at home every weekend, while I prefer to go somewhere, in fact, anywhere! Even Jurong Point seems like a better option than staying home.
Monday, October 24, 2005
Signs that tells me I've attained Auntie-hood
- Don't bother to visit the hair salon, although hair is in complete mess.
- Stepped out of the house without nail polish on toes, but wearing open-toes.
- Shaving legs became an annual event, unless there are other IMPORTANT occasions when I need to wear a skirt.
- Using my left foot to scratch my right leg, or vice versa. (Gawd, I can't believe it either, especially when I used to hate people doing that).
- Talking when my mouth is full of food.
- Talking way too much, and quite loudly.
- Gossiping alot.
- Wearing shoes and carrying bags that don't coordinate with the rest of my outfit one bit.
- Rummaging through mountains of on-sale items, with glee.
Get-together
Had a wonderful gathering with the old-timers yesterday. I had the chance to cook curry chicken since the gathering was held on a Sunday. The verdict on the dish was quite good, thanks to the killer curry powder which Mum swears by.
Angela prepared sumptuous but “evil” kong ba pau. Guess I gotta run at least 5km to lose all that calories! But it’s so delicious, I couldn’t resist. Jaime brought along more fattening food, durian cake and blueberry cake! Wow, we really know how to enjoy ourselves! Sis took over my “standard” item and bought topshell, but preparations by Jaime, shame shame on her. Haha. Cindy was the only health conscious one yesterday; she bought fruits, not-so-ripe papaya, watermelon and grapes.
We enjoyed a few hours of yak before sis’ “suppliers” came to intro and do some demo for a certain brand of skin care product. As an ex-beauty sales promoter, I’ve learnt to be skeptical whenever someone tried to sell me something and telling me how good it is. Hence, it’s usually someone else trying it for a certain period of time, and it shows obvious results, before I will “invest” in it. Anyway, had fun with the demo.
Cyrus was, as usual, going around and making other kiddos cry. Javier was hit with a phone by Cyrus twice; the 2nd time was more serious, blue-black marks on Javier’s temple. Looking at Cyrus made me think of how Tara will be at this age, and it made me cringe. Nothing can tame him, except the cane. To care for such a child, it will take lots of patience, and I think Cindy is losing hers soon. Or maybe she had lost it already. Just hope that Cyrus will grow out of it soon.
After the gals left, I spent the next 3 hours washing up, doing laundry and some house chores. Without Bob around, it’s pretty tough to care for Tara alone. But I’m coping, and thanks to high 5. I have no choice but to let High 5 “babysit” Tara. Yes, I’m another victim of the “TV nanny”.
Angela prepared sumptuous but “evil” kong ba pau. Guess I gotta run at least 5km to lose all that calories! But it’s so delicious, I couldn’t resist. Jaime brought along more fattening food, durian cake and blueberry cake! Wow, we really know how to enjoy ourselves! Sis took over my “standard” item and bought topshell, but preparations by Jaime, shame shame on her. Haha. Cindy was the only health conscious one yesterday; she bought fruits, not-so-ripe papaya, watermelon and grapes.
We enjoyed a few hours of yak before sis’ “suppliers” came to intro and do some demo for a certain brand of skin care product. As an ex-beauty sales promoter, I’ve learnt to be skeptical whenever someone tried to sell me something and telling me how good it is. Hence, it’s usually someone else trying it for a certain period of time, and it shows obvious results, before I will “invest” in it. Anyway, had fun with the demo.
Cyrus was, as usual, going around and making other kiddos cry. Javier was hit with a phone by Cyrus twice; the 2nd time was more serious, blue-black marks on Javier’s temple. Looking at Cyrus made me think of how Tara will be at this age, and it made me cringe. Nothing can tame him, except the cane. To care for such a child, it will take lots of patience, and I think Cindy is losing hers soon. Or maybe she had lost it already. Just hope that Cyrus will grow out of it soon.
After the gals left, I spent the next 3 hours washing up, doing laundry and some house chores. Without Bob around, it’s pretty tough to care for Tara alone. But I’m coping, and thanks to high 5. I have no choice but to let High 5 “babysit” Tara. Yes, I’m another victim of the “TV nanny”.
Saturday, October 22, 2005
Wow! I passed 8th Grade Math!
| You Passed 8th Grade Math |
 Congratulations, you got 10/10 correct! |
Being really bad in Math (and I mean really bad), I'm so surprised I got a 10/10 in one try! Try it here!
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Emails from Bob
On Sunday, I was clearing out some stuff from the study and chanced upon some floppy disks. Who uses floppies nowadays? So I decided to retrieve the files and toast into CD-roms instead.
One of the floppies was some saved text copies of Bob’s email to me when he was going after me and when we first started dating. I almost forgot how lovely that feeling was. When you constantly received emails from someone who’s very interested in you and hoping you will consider him, and when he profess his undying love to you. It’s so sweet when you first fall in love.
When we started dating, he had already contemplated about getting married with me! Talk about fast or what. And he was saying if we have kid, the kid will look like him or me? And also how nice it is to have a place of our own, blah blah blah. It’s so nice when you thought of it in the past, when you are in it, well, it’s totally different.
Anyway, it’s good to reminisce once in a while. It kind of rekindles the almost diminishing passion. Of course I love my Bob, very much in fact, but the passionate feelings you felt when you first dated is almost no longer there. What a pity.
One of the floppies was some saved text copies of Bob’s email to me when he was going after me and when we first started dating. I almost forgot how lovely that feeling was. When you constantly received emails from someone who’s very interested in you and hoping you will consider him, and when he profess his undying love to you. It’s so sweet when you first fall in love.
When we started dating, he had already contemplated about getting married with me! Talk about fast or what. And he was saying if we have kid, the kid will look like him or me? And also how nice it is to have a place of our own, blah blah blah. It’s so nice when you thought of it in the past, when you are in it, well, it’s totally different.
Anyway, it’s good to reminisce once in a while. It kind of rekindles the almost diminishing passion. Of course I love my Bob, very much in fact, but the passionate feelings you felt when you first dated is almost no longer there. What a pity.
Thursday, October 13, 2005
Wow! I’m tagged!
I got tagged for the first time, thanks to Eileen *wink*.
10s that will bring me moments of joy:
1) Bob bringing me and Tara out for our family day, just the 3 of us.
2) Booked a hotel room for a relaxing overnight stay.
3) Tara kissing me when I ask her to.
4) My mum cooking my favorite dishes.
5) After cleaning up the house (happy at the achievement and enjoy the tidiness)
6) Being busy at work.
7) Receiving my commission on the 15th every month.
8) Listening to super romantic songs when driving at night.
9) Going to my favorite restaurants for meals.
10) When both Bob and Tara smiling and hugging me when I reach home from a stressful and tired day at work.
I’m supposed to tag another 5 to complete this, but how? I do not have many friends with blogs. So I’ll just tag 2:
- Cindy
- Janice
10s that will bring me moments of joy:
1) Bob bringing me and Tara out for our family day, just the 3 of us.
2) Booked a hotel room for a relaxing overnight stay.
3) Tara kissing me when I ask her to.
4) My mum cooking my favorite dishes.
5) After cleaning up the house (happy at the achievement and enjoy the tidiness)
6) Being busy at work.
7) Receiving my commission on the 15th every month.
8) Listening to super romantic songs when driving at night.
9) Going to my favorite restaurants for meals.
10) When both Bob and Tara smiling and hugging me when I reach home from a stressful and tired day at work.
I’m supposed to tag another 5 to complete this, but how? I do not have many friends with blogs. So I’ll just tag 2:
- Cindy
- Janice
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Bloody Infection
Saw my company doctor yesterday afternoon. Actually, I hate going to company doctors because I always thought they are trying to “entertain” us only, and always thinking that we are there for one reason, MC (Medical certificate).
Just as I expected, the doctor gave me a couldn’t-be-bothered look when I’m trying to tell him the symptoms. I had a hard time describing. I felt giddiness but I don’t feel the whole place spinning.
Anyway, the doctor did some random checks; checked my throat which was okay, took my temperature, and I’m running a slight temperature 37.8. I was surprised as I don’t feel unwell at all, as in the kind of weak feeling I would usually get when I have a fever. I told the doctor and he said “Weell.. the machine don’t lieeee.” Arggh!
After which, he took my blood pressure and check both my ears, and everything was fine. Until he told me to stand up, with my arms up (like Chinese zombie type) and close my eyes. Immediately, I feel giddiness and feel myself swaying.
Doctor asked me a few other questions and decided that it might be some infection which is don’t know inside which part of my body now, hence causing the fever and the giddiness. I was prescribed antibiotics for the infection and medicine for the giddiness. Doctor also told me he had a friend, who was affected by some virus and suffered from imbalance (drowsiness) for 2 years, and couldn’t drive or even walk straight without support. Even though he recovered from the infection, he suffered the after effects for 2 years!
He also advised me to drive carefully, as I’m often behind the wheels. Till now, as I write this, I’m still running a temperature, but feeling perfectly alright, except for a few occasions of giddiness. I’m supposed to go back either on Thursday or Friday for further checks if the giddiness is still there.
Just as I expected, the doctor gave me a couldn’t-be-bothered look when I’m trying to tell him the symptoms. I had a hard time describing. I felt giddiness but I don’t feel the whole place spinning.
Anyway, the doctor did some random checks; checked my throat which was okay, took my temperature, and I’m running a slight temperature 37.8. I was surprised as I don’t feel unwell at all, as in the kind of weak feeling I would usually get when I have a fever. I told the doctor and he said “Weell.. the machine don’t lieeee.” Arggh!
After which, he took my blood pressure and check both my ears, and everything was fine. Until he told me to stand up, with my arms up (like Chinese zombie type) and close my eyes. Immediately, I feel giddiness and feel myself swaying.
Doctor asked me a few other questions and decided that it might be some infection which is don’t know inside which part of my body now, hence causing the fever and the giddiness. I was prescribed antibiotics for the infection and medicine for the giddiness. Doctor also told me he had a friend, who was affected by some virus and suffered from imbalance (drowsiness) for 2 years, and couldn’t drive or even walk straight without support. Even though he recovered from the infection, he suffered the after effects for 2 years!
He also advised me to drive carefully, as I’m often behind the wheels. Till now, as I write this, I’m still running a temperature, but feeling perfectly alright, except for a few occasions of giddiness. I’m supposed to go back either on Thursday or Friday for further checks if the giddiness is still there.
Monday, October 10, 2005
New dish - Pork Ribs with Bitter Gourd
I always cook on Sundays, when my in-laws not staying over my place. Yesterday, I decided to try my mum’s yet another yummy dish. Pork Ribs with Bitter gourd.
Yesterday morning, we went to Tiong Bahru Market for brunch, as well as to get the ingredients for last night’s dinner. While Bob was queuing for the infamous Lor Mee, I called Mum for some quick instructions on how to cook the dish; in fact, I only learnt it in 5 mins! Smart can?
It’s pretty easy to cook but as usual, my mum always say “agar lah” when I ask her how much ingredients I should use. So it’s also “agar-agar”, trial and error, when I cook. The amount of ingredients I use are usually based on the amount of the main ingredient, in this case the pork ribs. But I never cooked with ‘tau see’ (salted black bean) before, hence I really don’t know how to gauge. I’m supposed to fry the tau see with the garlic and small onions before I fry the ribs and bitter gourd. Then I’m supposed to simmer the stuff for an hour or so. During the simmering part, I realized that the tau see was not enough, I had to keep adding and eventually, I added one whole packet!
Fortunately, the taste was pretty good. Almost mum’s taste. I’m very happy! I love to eat this dish and now I can cook it myself whenever I have cravings. Bob was very happy too. He loves to eat, and he loves it that I love cooking as well, and he’s extremely happy to see me learning new dishes (sad for him, I refused to learn those Kelantan dishes). While I was cooking yesterday, he walked into the kitchen, with a wide grin on his face and commented on the nice aroma. His verdict on the dish? Good! And my verdict on the dish? Good! (I’m trying to be humble here).
Yesterday morning, we went to Tiong Bahru Market for brunch, as well as to get the ingredients for last night’s dinner. While Bob was queuing for the infamous Lor Mee, I called Mum for some quick instructions on how to cook the dish; in fact, I only learnt it in 5 mins! Smart can?
It’s pretty easy to cook but as usual, my mum always say “agar lah” when I ask her how much ingredients I should use. So it’s also “agar-agar”, trial and error, when I cook. The amount of ingredients I use are usually based on the amount of the main ingredient, in this case the pork ribs. But I never cooked with ‘tau see’ (salted black bean) before, hence I really don’t know how to gauge. I’m supposed to fry the tau see with the garlic and small onions before I fry the ribs and bitter gourd. Then I’m supposed to simmer the stuff for an hour or so. During the simmering part, I realized that the tau see was not enough, I had to keep adding and eventually, I added one whole packet!
Fortunately, the taste was pretty good. Almost mum’s taste. I’m very happy! I love to eat this dish and now I can cook it myself whenever I have cravings. Bob was very happy too. He loves to eat, and he loves it that I love cooking as well, and he’s extremely happy to see me learning new dishes (sad for him, I refused to learn those Kelantan dishes). While I was cooking yesterday, he walked into the kitchen, with a wide grin on his face and commented on the nice aroma. His verdict on the dish? Good! And my verdict on the dish? Good! (I’m trying to be humble here).
Saturday, October 08, 2005
I think something’s wrong with me
I don’t know why, I’ve been feeling giddiness every night, even when I’ve already lie down on the bed. I don’t know what causes it but I hope it’s not something serious. Sometimes when I wake up in the morning, the giddiness is still there. Sometimes there will be a bit of nausea feeling.
It’s time I see the doctor.
It’s time I see the doctor.
Friday, October 07, 2005
It’s Christmas already?!
EBIL (elder Brother-in-law) came back from US a couple of nights ago. Last night, he came to our house to see Tara, his favorite niece.
We felt so bad. He bought so many things for us! A Hard Rock café t-shirt each for me and Bob; Another T-shirt for Bob, as he’s worried Bob might not fit into the hard rock one, hahaha. And some golfing stuff which I don’t know what it’s called.
Tara has the most gifts. She got something like a rattle made from some animal skin. EBIL said it’s a mini version of some kind of drum used for bi(4) xie(2). Cute. EBIL also bought her a jumper dress and a sleeping suit from Osh Kosh. The size indicates 18mths, but they look like they will only fit Tara when she’s 5 years old! It’s so BIG! Anyway, it’s so nice of him.
EBIL also bought us one box of super yummy chocolates! My favorite! It comes in a nice tin box with assortment of flavours. I gobbled 2 immediately. And he helped us to get Desitin Creamy – the 4 oz packing ones – 6 tubes! I remembered a few days before he’s back, he said he only managed to get 3 tubes. It seems that this diaper cream is also very popular in US, and it’s always out of stock. EBIL had to go around a number of pharmacies to get it. And it seems that the prices weren’t standardized. Some pharmacies are selling at $3.99, and some at $5.99. Strange.
Oh yah, he also bought us (YES! There’s still more!) shooters glasses from Hard Rock – which we are collecting - and also a small whiskey glass from don’t know where.
Aww… so sweet of him. I felt like it was Christmas already!
We felt so bad. He bought so many things for us! A Hard Rock café t-shirt each for me and Bob; Another T-shirt for Bob, as he’s worried Bob might not fit into the hard rock one, hahaha. And some golfing stuff which I don’t know what it’s called.
Tara has the most gifts. She got something like a rattle made from some animal skin. EBIL said it’s a mini version of some kind of drum used for bi(4) xie(2). Cute. EBIL also bought her a jumper dress and a sleeping suit from Osh Kosh. The size indicates 18mths, but they look like they will only fit Tara when she’s 5 years old! It’s so BIG! Anyway, it’s so nice of him.
EBIL also bought us one box of super yummy chocolates! My favorite! It comes in a nice tin box with assortment of flavours. I gobbled 2 immediately. And he helped us to get Desitin Creamy – the 4 oz packing ones – 6 tubes! I remembered a few days before he’s back, he said he only managed to get 3 tubes. It seems that this diaper cream is also very popular in US, and it’s always out of stock. EBIL had to go around a number of pharmacies to get it. And it seems that the prices weren’t standardized. Some pharmacies are selling at $3.99, and some at $5.99. Strange.
Oh yah, he also bought us (YES! There’s still more!) shooters glasses from Hard Rock – which we are collecting - and also a small whiskey glass from don’t know where.
Aww… so sweet of him. I felt like it was Christmas already!
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
Breakfast cum Lunch = Brunch, Lunch cum Dinner?
2 Saturdays ago, we visited June, Guowei and their lovely first born, Aloysius at Gleneagles. Aloysius was big, 3.6kg or 3.8kg at birth. Congrats to June and Guowei!
After the visiting, we decided to go Tanglin mall for lunch / dinner. I wonder how to call that. Breakfast cum lunch is called a brunch, how about lunch and dinner? Do we call it a lun-ner? Or a dinch?
Anyway, we decided to go Spageddies. I wanted so much to eat the Aglio Olio but Bob wanted to eat too and told me to get something else (funny him, we can order the same thing what!). I ordered a Vongole Spaghetti. The garlic bread was super yummy! But my spaghetti was not as fantastic. I should have stuck to the Aglio.
After the “dinch”, we went to the supermarket down the basement for our groceries. Wow, it’s pricey!
Another short family day….
After the visiting, we decided to go Tanglin mall for lunch / dinner. I wonder how to call that. Breakfast cum lunch is called a brunch, how about lunch and dinner? Do we call it a lun-ner? Or a dinch?
Anyway, we decided to go Spageddies. I wanted so much to eat the Aglio Olio but Bob wanted to eat too and told me to get something else (funny him, we can order the same thing what!). I ordered a Vongole Spaghetti. The garlic bread was super yummy! But my spaghetti was not as fantastic. I should have stuck to the Aglio.
After the “dinch”, we went to the supermarket down the basement for our groceries. Wow, it’s pricey!
Another short family day….
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
2nd Wedding Anniversary
It’s our 2nd wedding anniversary. 2 years ago, we held our wedding dinner at M Hotel and had our wedding photo shoot at Raffles Marina. It was a very memorable day for us, despite some minor hitches we had. I still reminisce fondly even till now. I would flip through our wedding albums and watch our video montage once in a while.
Bob asked me yesterday where I wish to have our dinner. I told him Lawry’s. I’ve only been there once but I can’t forget the infamous Spinning Bowl Salad.
We decided to bring Tara along. I thought it will make this day even special and meaningful as it’s her 1st year celebrating with us. Once we stepped into the restaurant, Tara received celebrity attention! Tara enjoyed the attention as well, and was smiling, laughing and clapping her hands when the waiters and waitresses played with her.
They served us the Spinning Bowl Salad first. I remember that it used to taste even better, especially with their seasoning pepper.
After the salad, the Chef pushed the cart over and served us our Roast Beef. We ordered a California Cut each with additional cream corn for me and spinach for Bob. At the same time, the waitress served us the Yorkshire pudding which she said, goes well with the beef. The beef was yummy-licious, especially with the added topping of horseradish cream. It tasted so heavenly; I thought I’m in heaven!
On the menu, the California Cut was described as “smaller serving for light appetite”. I wonder why because the portion was so big, I had difficulty trying to finish!
They happen to know that it’s our wedding anniversary and served us a truffle (I think so) with a lighted candle. It’s so sweet of them.
Before the dinner started, I gave Bob his gift. It’s a voucher from St Gregory’s. Over the years, he received almost all the kind of gifts a man will get; wallet, belt, tie, shirt, socks etc. I’ve even bought him a Chinese teapot (which he has a collection) last Christmas. I thought to myself, there’s nothing more he needs, except to relax, that’s why I decided on St Gregory’s. I just hope that I (or he) will be able to top up additional $192 for a Spa Escape for Two Sampler. Anyway, he will be so lonely if he goes alone.
* Photos will be uploaded later*
Bob asked me yesterday where I wish to have our dinner. I told him Lawry’s. I’ve only been there once but I can’t forget the infamous Spinning Bowl Salad.
We decided to bring Tara along. I thought it will make this day even special and meaningful as it’s her 1st year celebrating with us. Once we stepped into the restaurant, Tara received celebrity attention! Tara enjoyed the attention as well, and was smiling, laughing and clapping her hands when the waiters and waitresses played with her.
They served us the Spinning Bowl Salad first. I remember that it used to taste even better, especially with their seasoning pepper.
After the salad, the Chef pushed the cart over and served us our Roast Beef. We ordered a California Cut each with additional cream corn for me and spinach for Bob. At the same time, the waitress served us the Yorkshire pudding which she said, goes well with the beef. The beef was yummy-licious, especially with the added topping of horseradish cream. It tasted so heavenly; I thought I’m in heaven!
On the menu, the California Cut was described as “smaller serving for light appetite”. I wonder why because the portion was so big, I had difficulty trying to finish!
They happen to know that it’s our wedding anniversary and served us a truffle (I think so) with a lighted candle. It’s so sweet of them.
Before the dinner started, I gave Bob his gift. It’s a voucher from St Gregory’s. Over the years, he received almost all the kind of gifts a man will get; wallet, belt, tie, shirt, socks etc. I’ve even bought him a Chinese teapot (which he has a collection) last Christmas. I thought to myself, there’s nothing more he needs, except to relax, that’s why I decided on St Gregory’s. I just hope that I (or he) will be able to top up additional $192 for a Spa Escape for Two Sampler. Anyway, he will be so lonely if he goes alone.
* Photos will be uploaded later*
Monday, October 03, 2005
Tara almost ate a bug!
Babies are known to pick stuff on the floor and shove it into their mouth. I saw her picking hair, bits of paper etc. But that day, she decided she want to taste something different.
I was watching TV on the floor, with her beside me. She was playing with her toys. Seconds after I shift my attention back to her from the TV, I saw her trying to put something into her mouth. And that something have wings attached and was flapping in a desperate attempt to free itself fm Tara's grasp. Fortunately the bug was in between Tara's fingers while she was licking her palm. I can't imagine if the bug should end up in Tara's little tummy.
I watched a classic movie years ago, it's about this man, who swallowed a fly and in the end, he metamorphose into one. It's so gross and so real, that even till now, I still believe that such thing will happen. Eeks. Hope Tara don't swallow any bugs while we not looking.
I was watching TV on the floor, with her beside me. She was playing with her toys. Seconds after I shift my attention back to her from the TV, I saw her trying to put something into her mouth. And that something have wings attached and was flapping in a desperate attempt to free itself fm Tara's grasp. Fortunately the bug was in between Tara's fingers while she was licking her palm. I can't imagine if the bug should end up in Tara's little tummy.
I watched a classic movie years ago, it's about this man, who swallowed a fly and in the end, he metamorphose into one. It's so gross and so real, that even till now, I still believe that such thing will happen. Eeks. Hope Tara don't swallow any bugs while we not looking.
Saturday, September 24, 2005
Tara's Milestone @ 10 months
The baby finally knows how to crawl properly. Some knocks expected, as she's still trying to learn how to coodinate her limbs. She always wants to start crawling, but unaware that one of her hand is still stuck under her leg. Some crying expected, but it's part of the "learning" process. Last week, she even had 2 bruises on her forehead.
Her crawling also posed another "problem" for me and Bob. We can't sit down and watch TV in peace! Okay, at the most 10 minutes and we will be chasing after her, because she will be rummaging through drawers, tugging at the newspaper or trying to poke her hand into the fan.. it never ends. No amount of toys would keep her occupied. She will be so interested in the surroundings, and especially drawn to the fan. Was telling my mum that a couple of months ago, I'm still wondering why she hasn't start crawling, but now, maybe a bit later is better.
I wonder once she start walking... Whoa! I can't imagine! She also starting to pull herself up to stand. And she would pull at anything. The sofa, the table, our hands, our legs, and embarrasingly, sometimes, my top. I'm talking about loose fitting kind of top where a little tugging is enough to give a free show to anyone who's fast enough to catch a glimpse. And I'm talking about a public place where she always gets some attention (either her big doe eyes or her shiny little head).
The baby also starting to talk in gibberish, alot! I guess she's trying to engaged in a conversation with us, except we don't understand a word she's gibbering. But it's funny sometimes. She's also starting to bite. The day before Bob left for KL, she gave him a "love" bite on his wrist. Bob, was just like a kid, showing me the redness on his wrist, complaining that the baby had bitten him, at the same time trying to hide the grin on his face without success. Funny Daddy, think he's a masochist. I've also got a few bites from her. My shoulder, my hand, my leg.
The baby can now follow simple commands. She will clap hands when we say "pai pai shou" (clap hands), wave bye bye when we say and wave "bye bye", kiss us when we say "kiss", lean herself towards me when I say "hug hug". Sometimes, when she's in a good mood, she will crawl towards me when I beckon her to. When I say "wash hand", she will search around for her purple basin, and when placed next to her, she will put her hand into the water, waiting for me to help her clean. It's so cute.
Another 1.5 months to her first birthday. Time really flies....
Her crawling also posed another "problem" for me and Bob. We can't sit down and watch TV in peace! Okay, at the most 10 minutes and we will be chasing after her, because she will be rummaging through drawers, tugging at the newspaper or trying to poke her hand into the fan.. it never ends. No amount of toys would keep her occupied. She will be so interested in the surroundings, and especially drawn to the fan. Was telling my mum that a couple of months ago, I'm still wondering why she hasn't start crawling, but now, maybe a bit later is better.
I wonder once she start walking... Whoa! I can't imagine! She also starting to pull herself up to stand. And she would pull at anything. The sofa, the table, our hands, our legs, and embarrasingly, sometimes, my top. I'm talking about loose fitting kind of top where a little tugging is enough to give a free show to anyone who's fast enough to catch a glimpse. And I'm talking about a public place where she always gets some attention (either her big doe eyes or her shiny little head).
The baby also starting to talk in gibberish, alot! I guess she's trying to engaged in a conversation with us, except we don't understand a word she's gibbering. But it's funny sometimes. She's also starting to bite. The day before Bob left for KL, she gave him a "love" bite on his wrist. Bob, was just like a kid, showing me the redness on his wrist, complaining that the baby had bitten him, at the same time trying to hide the grin on his face without success. Funny Daddy, think he's a masochist. I've also got a few bites from her. My shoulder, my hand, my leg.
The baby can now follow simple commands. She will clap hands when we say "pai pai shou" (clap hands), wave bye bye when we say and wave "bye bye", kiss us when we say "kiss", lean herself towards me when I say "hug hug". Sometimes, when she's in a good mood, she will crawl towards me when I beckon her to. When I say "wash hand", she will search around for her purple basin, and when placed next to her, she will put her hand into the water, waiting for me to help her clean. It's so cute.
Another 1.5 months to her first birthday. Time really flies....
What my birthday means....
Your Birthdate: May 22 |
 While sometimes employing unorthodox approaches, you are capable of handling large scale undertakings. |
hmmz.. so untrue! hiak hiak hiak...
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Privilege or Right?
Over the years, I've heard a lot of stories of how children hate or blame their parents for not sending them overseas for further education. Most of the time, the parents wasn't able to afford the high expenses of sending their children overseas, and sometimes, of other reasons.
Their parents brought them to this world, fed them, clothe them, provide them the basic education (up to tertiary at least!). They work really hard to provide for the family and yet, they still get blamed for being unable to send their children overseas? I mean, what's wrong with these people! How ungrateful they are. I really wonder if they will in turn provide the same amount of care and provide for their parents when they get old. They have the cheek to demand and even hate their parents?! These people make me angry.
If they really have the capabilities of going for further studies, they can either get a scholarship, or get a bank loan and pay off themselves when they start working after they got their "toilet paper". Don't demand from parents! Even if they have loads of money, they have the choice of giving it to the child, or keeping it for themselves. What makes him / her think that they can use THEIR money, which him / her have most probably used a lot for the past 18 to 20 years. To me, these people are just spoilt and narrow minded. They are so used to getting what they want. Hello! It's a privilege ok!!
Grrrr... they really make my blood boil. I wonder if they still know what is respect and fillial piety. For those people who are hating their parents, please, one day, if your parents are 6 feet underground, you can sit beside their graves and go on blaming them.
Their parents brought them to this world, fed them, clothe them, provide them the basic education (up to tertiary at least!). They work really hard to provide for the family and yet, they still get blamed for being unable to send their children overseas? I mean, what's wrong with these people! How ungrateful they are. I really wonder if they will in turn provide the same amount of care and provide for their parents when they get old. They have the cheek to demand and even hate their parents?! These people make me angry.
If they really have the capabilities of going for further studies, they can either get a scholarship, or get a bank loan and pay off themselves when they start working after they got their "toilet paper". Don't demand from parents! Even if they have loads of money, they have the choice of giving it to the child, or keeping it for themselves. What makes him / her think that they can use THEIR money, which him / her have most probably used a lot for the past 18 to 20 years. To me, these people are just spoilt and narrow minded. They are so used to getting what they want. Hello! It's a privilege ok!!
Grrrr... they really make my blood boil. I wonder if they still know what is respect and fillial piety. For those people who are hating their parents, please, one day, if your parents are 6 feet underground, you can sit beside their graves and go on blaming them.
Monday, September 19, 2005
Cheaper
Baby: *Coughing*
Daddy: How I wish I'm the sick one.
Mummy: (Aww...) Why leh? You don't like to see her suffer is it?
Daddy: No lah, I see doctor only $20. She see docter $70 leh!
Mummy: ..............
Daddy: How I wish I'm the sick one.
Mummy: (Aww...) Why leh? You don't like to see her suffer is it?
Daddy: No lah, I see doctor only $20. She see docter $70 leh!
Mummy: ..............
Sunday, September 18, 2005
Long Awaited Family Day
It's been quite a while since we had our last family day. As in the 3 of us family day. Everytime I saw other young couples bringing their kiddos out, I'm so envious. I was so looking forward to it that I left office as soon as I've done my stuff.
Bob decided to bring us out for high tea and we went Hilton's Checkers cafe. $26++ per person. Variety not much, well, it's $26 after all. But the food quite yummy. The satays especially, taste just like the ones I've had at my favourite stall in Pasir Panjang. Didn't really tasted the cakes because I'm so full, and stomach so bloated, I look like I'm 6 mths pregnant. But I did get to eat a Green Tea Cake and it's so awful! I almost puke man...
Bob decided to bring us out for high tea and we went Hilton's Checkers cafe. $26++ per person. Variety not much, well, it's $26 after all. But the food quite yummy. The satays especially, taste just like the ones I've had at my favourite stall in Pasir Panjang. Didn't really tasted the cakes because I'm so full, and stomach so bloated, I look like I'm 6 mths pregnant. But I did get to eat a Green Tea Cake and it's so awful! I almost puke man...
Very cranky Tara
We went to Hard Rock to check out the area for Tara's 1st birthday bash, looks pretty good, but my experience with them wasn't that good so far. I hope the service will not be as bad on the day itself. We shop around Forum and saw this red doggie kiddy ride. Tara's first time on a kiddy ride, she had to stand and hold the wheel. It was so cute. Saw a shop with nice baby clothes, will keep it in mind when I go shopping for clothes for Tara's birthday bash.
Tara on the doggie kiddy ride
At Toys R' Us
The little devil
Bob got bored after a while, and was giving me a can-we-go-home kind of look though it's only 2 hours! I mean the hi-tea and the shopping was only 2 hours and he wanted to go home, it was so disappointing. There I was, so happy that this long awaited family day finally arrived and he don't share my sentiments. Pretty pissed also, if it's with his parents, he would happily bring them wherever they want. Sometimes, I really hate going out with him.
Looking pathetically bored
Anyway, we went to Cold Storage to get some groceries for today. I totally love their shopping carts, it comes with a baby seat, which was useful as Tara had fallen asleep so we strapped her on it. Got a little attention from the other shoppers, guess they seldom see a baby sleeping so soundly on a shopping cart before.
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Not so happy family day, but it's better than nothing. Just hope that we will have a better one next week. I hope...
Tonight's Dinner
Tonight's dinner, a good mix of meat, spaghetti and vegetables. Taste? 6 out of 10. Guess I've gotta learn how to make a good sauce for the steak.
Thursday, September 15, 2005
13 going on 30
Last week, I had a movie marathon. Started with "Meeting the Fockers", followed by "13 goint on 30" and finally "Ocean Twelve".
"13 going on 30", very enjoyable show. It's about this girl, wishing that she could be 30 years old instead of 13, with bigger boobs and stuff. So on her 13th birthday, after some unhappy events, she made her wish, opened her eyes and found that she indeed had turned 30.
But when she was 30, she found out about the nasty things she had done to gain popularity, fame and $$, and in the end, lose the guy whom she loved. So she wished that she could go back to 13 again.
She reminded me of myself. Many times, I hope I can turn back time. I hope to do those things that should have been done and avoid things that should not have happen. I wish I can go back to schooling days when all I need to worry is my studies. I wish, I wish... but there's no way to turn back time. But then again, I tell myself it's a blessing in disguise. I might not marry my husband if I had not met assholes before. Now I have a very happy family, a loving husband, whom I can always rely on and my sweet darling, whom makes me happy everyday.
Anyway, back to the movie, in the end, the girl wished she would become 13 all over again and how do you think the story end? Well, happily ever after loh.... Very nice show, I don't mind watching it again... hehe..
"13 going on 30", very enjoyable show. It's about this girl, wishing that she could be 30 years old instead of 13, with bigger boobs and stuff. So on her 13th birthday, after some unhappy events, she made her wish, opened her eyes and found that she indeed had turned 30.
But when she was 30, she found out about the nasty things she had done to gain popularity, fame and $$, and in the end, lose the guy whom she loved. So she wished that she could go back to 13 again.
She reminded me of myself. Many times, I hope I can turn back time. I hope to do those things that should have been done and avoid things that should not have happen. I wish I can go back to schooling days when all I need to worry is my studies. I wish, I wish... but there's no way to turn back time. But then again, I tell myself it's a blessing in disguise. I might not marry my husband if I had not met assholes before. Now I have a very happy family, a loving husband, whom I can always rely on and my sweet darling, whom makes me happy everyday.
Anyway, back to the movie, in the end, the girl wished she would become 13 all over again and how do you think the story end? Well, happily ever after loh.... Very nice show, I don't mind watching it again... hehe..
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
My YBIL - Photoshop and all..
I've been trying to learn photoshop. There's so many photos I need to enhance and edit before I send them for print again. Those photos were scanned from the hardcopy, so you can imagine the quality.
I learnt, I tried, I failed. My colleagues will run miles away when they saw me approaching with glint in my eye. They are sick of me, asking them endless questions on how to use the photoshop. In the end, I gave up, and started doing other stuff instead.
Until one day, my saviour, in the form of my younger brother-in-law (let's call him YBIL) came. He's a graphics design-based guy, but now doing more on directing photoshoot (wow, how cool is that!). He lived in KL but was here doing the weekend visiting his folks, who are staying at my place.
The day he arrived, he brought a super cool Canon camera, those kind that professionals use, and started taking photos of my little girl. That night, I download the pictures, wow! Why do I still need to send my girl to those photo studio, when there's a professional right in front of me.
He also showed me and Bob some of the stuff he did back home. The photos taken were okay quality (as compared to magazines lah) but after his magic hands did the editing, it's so NICE! I grabbed the chance to ask him how to do editing on those photos that I chucked aside.
I chose one, where the face details was overexposed, as in the light was so bright on our faces that we can't see where's our nose. My YBIL just did a rough editing, to show me how it's done and the effect was "WOW"!! Bear in mind it's rough editing leh! But he was too fast with his shortcut keys and the clicking. I can't catch up. Too bad I can't sit down and learn from him that night, as I still need to take care of Tara.
I learnt, I tried, I failed. My colleagues will run miles away when they saw me approaching with glint in my eye. They are sick of me, asking them endless questions on how to use the photoshop. In the end, I gave up, and started doing other stuff instead.
Until one day, my saviour, in the form of my younger brother-in-law (let's call him YBIL) came. He's a graphics design-based guy, but now doing more on directing photoshoot (wow, how cool is that!). He lived in KL but was here doing the weekend visiting his folks, who are staying at my place.
The day he arrived, he brought a super cool Canon camera, those kind that professionals use, and started taking photos of my little girl. That night, I download the pictures, wow! Why do I still need to send my girl to those photo studio, when there's a professional right in front of me.
He also showed me and Bob some of the stuff he did back home. The photos taken were okay quality (as compared to magazines lah) but after his magic hands did the editing, it's so NICE! I grabbed the chance to ask him how to do editing on those photos that I chucked aside.
I chose one, where the face details was overexposed, as in the light was so bright on our faces that we can't see where's our nose. My YBIL just did a rough editing, to show me how it's done and the effect was "WOW"!! Bear in mind it's rough editing leh! But he was too fast with his shortcut keys and the clicking. I can't catch up. Too bad I can't sit down and learn from him that night, as I still need to take care of Tara.
*Top photo before photoshop, bottom after photoshop, notice the size of my mouth? Yup! He made it smaller.. hehe*
Haiz, still have to rely on myself, eventually.......
Monday, September 05, 2005
Pandan - Where my Childhood Memories are..
Brought Tara to Mum's place this morning, as usual, I will meet Mum at the coffeeshop and as usual, I will order a bowl of kuey teow mee soup. But today, I didn't have the appetite so decided to take something light. I sat there for more than 10 mins, not knowing what to order. All the food there are either too oily or too heavy. Looked around and saw the pastry shop. Hey! The last time I ate their pastry curry puffs was years ago! Happily, I walked to the shop. After so many years.. the uncle looked older, and more skinny but still full of energy. The curry puffs selling at 60 cents only. 60 cents! Where else can I find nice and yummy pastry curry puffs at 60 cents? I wonder how the Uncle survived with the little bread he sold everyday. My heart ached for him. Hoping to help, I ask him how many puffs he makes everyday. I ordered 20 and he said I had to place order 2 days in advance. For 20? I can imagine how difficult it is for him to survive. I'm not sure if the money he makes a day or a month is enough for the rent. I arranged to collect the order on Thursday. Uncle did not even give me a receipt, guess there's no need for one, and just told me to remember to collect. I left the shop, promising myself I will try to come back if I should need pastries.
I still remember the Uncle had to help me take the puffs because I was too small then, to reach the rack. Now, the same girl has grown up and a mother of one already. The memories of my childhood came flooding back.
I lived at Pandan all my life. Mum said we've been staying there since I was less than one year old. They always say, how old I am means the number of years we've been living at Pandan. I grew up in a "concrete jungle". Alot of people told me about kampong life, how much fun it was staying at kampong, and some said how hard life was then. They said my life is good, I lived in flats, where water is just a turn of the tap, and heat is just the flick of a switch. I would reply them, how I was brought up, in what kind of environment, is not up to me to choose. Yes, even though I don't have the fun and "freedom" those kampong people have, I do have my own kind of fun and my own set of fond memories.
As I've mentioned, I lived in Pandan all my life, hence my memories revolved around this area. I still remember how I learnt cycling at the walkway down my block, my brother's friend, Gene, taught me. My brother and I would catch rats or other small insects in those small concrete drains. We even named one rat Suzy. I had dislocated my left elbow at the playground. Mum told me even Chinese sinsehs were not willing to treat me, because of my young age. Hence I was sent to the hospital, where the doctor cast it up. One month later, the cast was removed and my arm no longer look the same. I'm not sure if it's a "mistake" on the doctor's part? Did they fixed it back wrongly? It didn't affect my life as a whole, just that it's pretty obvious and lots of people ask me what happen. I had to repeat the story again and again. My dear hubby even call me a "boomerang", how cruel can that be? Years ago, I was attending a tutorial class on the bone structure of the human body. I asked the lecturer about my case and he told me most probably, the doctor could not fix the elbow back, that's why it looks like this now. I'm not convinced but what can I say.
I remember there was once, my brother and I went to the shops a few blocks away to buy some stuff, we were stopped by those Christian Evangelists. They spoke to us for more than an hour, trying to convince us to join their church. We were so young then, we didn't know what to do so we sat there and listen. When we finally reach home, Mum was waiting for us with a cane. She was worried sick when we didn't reach home earlier, of course, we got the caning.
Whenever Mum brought us to the coffeeshop, my brother would always order his "kek huey" (chrysanthemum) and I would order my "dao ni" (soya bean). I'm not sure if we particularly like the drink but it's one of the first hokkien I learnt to speak.
There was once, we were playing in a group, which include my cousin, my brother and my uncle (couple months younger than me, but higher in "rank"). We saw a suitcase at the void deck and playfully, we open it up. To our horror, a snake sprang up and stare at us! And it's a bloody cobra. We ran and hide, and I can't remember what happen later. Initially, I thought it was a dream but I verified with brother and my younger uncle and realised it actually did happen. How dangerous! We are a group of young, ignorant and defenseless kids facing a poisonous cobra. It was lucky that all of us got away unscathed.
The Pandan reservoir was a few minutes away from my flat. I ever went there for a run with my neighbours. Hell, it was such a tiring and endless jog. That was the first and last time I made a full round at the reservoir. I even did stupid stuff, being young and ignorant, I profess my undying love for a cute guy who's staying the next block. Together with Suyan and the other friends, we threw this love note into the "sea" (the reservior lah). Jian'an (cute guy) dived in to get the note, I jumped in too, trying to snatch it back. Someone shouted at us to get out of the water and we start running away, we thought he was trying to catch us.
I still remember my "playmates". Windy, Jane and Joy.. my neighbours. I used to sit at the steps of their house and talk to them. Sometimes when I'm lucky, Uncle will let me in to the house to play with them. They owned toys that I don't and I love to play with them. They have since shifted to a condominium when I was in Secondary, I think.
There's lots of other fond memories of staying at Pandan. Though it might not be as fun as the kampong people might say, but it's another kind of enjoyment that the kampong people will not understand. Every shop, every tree, every bench, everything.. has a special place in my heart. I'm no longer living there, shifted out after I got married. Years after I've shifted out, I still feel I'm part of the place. It's the place I grew up, it's the place I call "home"..
I still remember the Uncle had to help me take the puffs because I was too small then, to reach the rack. Now, the same girl has grown up and a mother of one already. The memories of my childhood came flooding back.
I lived at Pandan all my life. Mum said we've been staying there since I was less than one year old. They always say, how old I am means the number of years we've been living at Pandan. I grew up in a "concrete jungle". Alot of people told me about kampong life, how much fun it was staying at kampong, and some said how hard life was then. They said my life is good, I lived in flats, where water is just a turn of the tap, and heat is just the flick of a switch. I would reply them, how I was brought up, in what kind of environment, is not up to me to choose. Yes, even though I don't have the fun and "freedom" those kampong people have, I do have my own kind of fun and my own set of fond memories.
As I've mentioned, I lived in Pandan all my life, hence my memories revolved around this area. I still remember how I learnt cycling at the walkway down my block, my brother's friend, Gene, taught me. My brother and I would catch rats or other small insects in those small concrete drains. We even named one rat Suzy. I had dislocated my left elbow at the playground. Mum told me even Chinese sinsehs were not willing to treat me, because of my young age. Hence I was sent to the hospital, where the doctor cast it up. One month later, the cast was removed and my arm no longer look the same. I'm not sure if it's a "mistake" on the doctor's part? Did they fixed it back wrongly? It didn't affect my life as a whole, just that it's pretty obvious and lots of people ask me what happen. I had to repeat the story again and again. My dear hubby even call me a "boomerang", how cruel can that be? Years ago, I was attending a tutorial class on the bone structure of the human body. I asked the lecturer about my case and he told me most probably, the doctor could not fix the elbow back, that's why it looks like this now. I'm not convinced but what can I say.
I remember there was once, my brother and I went to the shops a few blocks away to buy some stuff, we were stopped by those Christian Evangelists. They spoke to us for more than an hour, trying to convince us to join their church. We were so young then, we didn't know what to do so we sat there and listen. When we finally reach home, Mum was waiting for us with a cane. She was worried sick when we didn't reach home earlier, of course, we got the caning.
Whenever Mum brought us to the coffeeshop, my brother would always order his "kek huey" (chrysanthemum) and I would order my "dao ni" (soya bean). I'm not sure if we particularly like the drink but it's one of the first hokkien I learnt to speak.
There was once, we were playing in a group, which include my cousin, my brother and my uncle (couple months younger than me, but higher in "rank"). We saw a suitcase at the void deck and playfully, we open it up. To our horror, a snake sprang up and stare at us! And it's a bloody cobra. We ran and hide, and I can't remember what happen later. Initially, I thought it was a dream but I verified with brother and my younger uncle and realised it actually did happen. How dangerous! We are a group of young, ignorant and defenseless kids facing a poisonous cobra. It was lucky that all of us got away unscathed.
The Pandan reservoir was a few minutes away from my flat. I ever went there for a run with my neighbours. Hell, it was such a tiring and endless jog. That was the first and last time I made a full round at the reservoir. I even did stupid stuff, being young and ignorant, I profess my undying love for a cute guy who's staying the next block. Together with Suyan and the other friends, we threw this love note into the "sea" (the reservior lah). Jian'an (cute guy) dived in to get the note, I jumped in too, trying to snatch it back. Someone shouted at us to get out of the water and we start running away, we thought he was trying to catch us.
I still remember my "playmates". Windy, Jane and Joy.. my neighbours. I used to sit at the steps of their house and talk to them. Sometimes when I'm lucky, Uncle will let me in to the house to play with them. They owned toys that I don't and I love to play with them. They have since shifted to a condominium when I was in Secondary, I think.
There's lots of other fond memories of staying at Pandan. Though it might not be as fun as the kampong people might say, but it's another kind of enjoyment that the kampong people will not understand. Every shop, every tree, every bench, everything.. has a special place in my heart. I'm no longer living there, shifted out after I got married. Years after I've shifted out, I still feel I'm part of the place. It's the place I grew up, it's the place I call "home"..
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