Toontoon Koko

Good Friday Road Trip

2010-04-07T17:06:00.000+08:00

We had an adventurous and shocking road trip on the weekends of Good Friday. My whole family decided to visit Desaru for a 2D1N stay. Sis booked 4 rooms at Desaru Golden Beach Resort. We drove to JB after Jolie’s Maths class on Saturday.

Everything was fine until it started to rain heavily. The rain was pretty bad that when we reached after 2hrs it was still drizzling. This was when our nightmare started.

Before booking, my sis had emphasized that we needed connecting rooms. And to do that, we had to choose a higher category, Executive Villa, to ensure at least one room is connected to another and pay for higher price. For Executive Villa, it was confirmed by the Hotel staff that the lower floor has connecting facility. When we arrived, no rooms are connected to each other, except that we are on the same block. This is the First Disappointment.

Second Disappointment, the rooms look so old. We were surprise it is called Executive Room. They were so run down. My sis’ room TV only show Mediacorp channel 8 in black and white. Our bed sheets had holes on them. Worst, my family, including my 2 years old nephew had been bitten badly by bed bug. His foot was swollen. And my sis had to incur medical cost on that. Through out the night, they could hear very loud music in their room. Luckily I could not hear anything.

Third disappointment, the breakfast spread on the next day was pathetic. And nevertheless to comment about the quality. To bring the matter worst, my mum and I fall sick after consuming breakfast. Both of us were puking and visiting the toilets numerous times during our car journey to Melaka. I fainted in one of the toilet visit and face turned as white as paper. We were rush to a 24hrs Clinic in Melaka. The doctor verified that we were suffering from food poisoning. We were put on Drips and spent MYR 139 each on medical bills. Luckily we were travelling in big group, or we might have problem handling all the 3 kids we had. We had to forgo our plan of taking pictures at the Melaka Heritage Centre/Park and drove back to Singapore joining the jam at N-S Highway.

Probably the only happiness in this trip was that Toon get to test out the performance of our car ;-)

Jovan and Shoes

2009-11-26T19:21:00.001+08:00

Our playful Jovan recently develops a liking for shoes. He will take our shoes to wear and walk around the house. At Mulia, he will wear house slipper around.. He seems to know how to differentiate and always get the matching pair of shoes..

2 funny video clips showing Jovan with his slipper and my "kok kok" heels.. haha

Trip to Peek-a-Boo Indoor playground

2009-11-24T18:45:00.000+08:00

Although I'm unwell today, on MC, I decided to bring the kids out for fun. I asked my friend and her kids along to Peek-A-Boo at Kallang Leisure Park. It was their first visit. The kids were very happy and excited.

Chloe, Dylan and Jolie could not wait to enter the premise after wearing their socks. Jovan was dashing around the play area, riding the pony, driving the car, best of all, diving into the pit of balls. He was not concern about bumping his face on the balls. He just swam around. The 3 big ones ran up and down the maze. Penny and I decided to try climbing up too. GOsh, it was tiring.. We could not take it that we decided to stay on the ground area.. haha..

After an hour, we took a break to had some pizza from the in-house cafe. The price is quite reasonable, 10inch pizza at S$12 and they serve plain water for free. Jovan had 2 slices of pizza. He simply loved it.

The place is pretty cosy and well done. Suitable for kids from 1.5yrs above. If Peek-a-boo can improve the tots' play area by having some cushion slides and blocks, it will be even better.

We were there from 1.30pm to 5pm. If not for having to fetch Toon, we probably would be there longer. Jovan was so tired that he fell asleep the moment I carried him. Because of that, I forgot his shoes and I have to go back to pick them up today.

Entry Fee is reasonable,free for 6mths below, S$8 for 6mths-2yrs, S$12 for 2yrs above. The rates are for whole day of fun. Parents free. Isn't it wonderfull. Many indoor playground that I had been charge by hour and adult has to pay entry fee too. It is not very crowded with kids thus parents can consider bringing them there.

Jolie's performance for CBK Graduation Ceremony 2009

2009-10-25T23:12:00.007+08:00

This morning I took leave to watch Jolie’s performance during the school graduation ceremony. This year she will be missing it as we happen to be out of town. Not wanting her months of efforts in learning the steps to go down the drain, I seek the teacher’s permission to watch it at their full-dress rehearsal.

This year the costume’s quality is so much better. It is comfortable to wear and it can be worn during normal days too. Other students have cute costumes too. There are "animals", "insects" running around.

This year Jolie won the Best Chinese Reader Award again. We are so proud of her. Teacher Pat, her English speech & drama teacher said that she may let Jolie be the M.C. next year as she has the confident and minimal stage fright. After the prize presentation, the musical started. It is about a Caterpillar being sad with it’s appearance and God is explaining to her that she’s special in her own way. Jolie’s segment is named Rainbow.

Jolie is enjoying herself in the dance. She’s happy that I’m there to watch her. This trip was good too as I’m allowed to go near her to take pictures. If it is on actual day, I would have to stand at a distance.

Toon should be going to see her next Thursday during combine rehearsal.
Can’t imagine when it was Jovan’s time to perform. He should be adorable.. hahaha

Now I need to pack for our Bangkok trip next week..

Jovan's First Lunar Birthday - Items Selection Ceremony

2009-10-25T22:50:00.003+08:00

Last weekend was Jovan’s first lunar birthday. For Chinese custom, the birthday baby will be given a plate of items to choose. It is said to predict the future of the child. Every item symbolises different career e.g. scissor means tailor, seamstress or fashion designer; book means teacher; food means chef or cook; calculator means Accountant; ruler mean Architect

My mother-in-law prepared all the items early in the morning. We had Scissor, Books, Calculator, Red Eggs, Red Packets, Drumsticks, Pen, Aeroplane and Ruler. Each items were pasted with little red paper and placed in a super large plate.

To make the selection a fair one, I carried Jovan to the kitchen when Toon put the plate on floor. Then, I let him walked to the living room. Jovan was amazed. He did not attack the items immediately but circling around the plate, analysing. After few circles, he squatted down and touched the scissor. He paused for a while before taking it out of the plate. We were laughing by then. By right, the ceremony should end. We decided to let him continue to see the sequence and for fun sake.

He looked very serious in his selection process. Serious and adorable. As usual, he’s our Rubber-Tummy Boy. He would not let go the drumstick when Jolie tried to take it away from him.

So it had said that he will be a tailor or fashion designer. I hope if it becomes truth, he will be an International Fashion Designer. Jolie and I will have unlimited clothing to wear.

[more pictures can be seen at his Gallery]

Jovan's First Birthday Celebration

2009-09-30T23:13:00.005+08:00

Time really flies fast. During this time last year I was doing my confinement and yesterday Jovan is officially one year old. He’s big boy, as in his size. Weighing at 9.5kg, he can walk with confident and play independently. He is always cheerful and smiling, dancing with his body swaying when he hears any music.

Last Sunday, we had a big party to celebrate his first birthday. After checking out several venues, I finally chose SAFRA Yishun. I started to plan his party months ago, the goodies bag items, décor, guest list, program itinerary etc.

I did my research and finally decide to do the CAREBEAR and THOMAS THE TRAIN theme:
· Invitation Card - DIY
· Goodies Bag Items – I personalised the paperbag with my DIY sticker, made my own coloring book and put in some snacks
· Banner – DIY
· Balloon – www.adamevestyle.com
· Video Clip – I started to do montages of Jovan early this year and use it to make into video using Windows Movie Maker
· Guest Book – Bought the album at Prints and pasted those montages that I have done to let our guests write their wishes.
· Toys / Playground – Rented from Toy Rental Club
· Birthday Cake – Pastry Division of CJS Catering. Thomas and Carebear toppers are mine
· Big Montage of Jovan – DIY, frame from IKEA

I was quite stress over the preparation that I could not sleep well for weeks. I only order the cake 1 week before the event. We did a number 1 cake since it was Jovan’s first birthday cake and time won’t turn back when he turns 2.

Just when I was headache about what Toon, me and Jolie will wear, we found a t-shirt printing store at JB that can print Carebear and Thomas pictures on shirts. Toon and Jovan has same printing style while I have a Cheerbear on the bottom of my blouse and Jolie had a Wish Bear printed at the back.

We reached the function room at 10.30am and started to decorate the room. Thanks to Jasmine, I had Carebear hanging banner to hang at the entrance and Carebear number 1 candle to use for the cake. Soon the food, balloons and toys were delivered. I was hungry but no time to eat.

When time hit 12noon, guests began to arrive. Kids got sticker with their names on. The whole party looked like a carnival. Kids enjoyed the mini play area and adults chatting away. When it was time for cake-cutting, everyone gathered round and took pictures by turn.

We had to do it fast as Jovan’s is trying to mess up the cake, even Jolie nibbled with the fresh cream.

I’m so pleased with the outcome. I would say it was a great and memorable party, do you agree?

p.s. more pictures can be seen at Jovan's Gallery. Just click on the link at the side.

Clips of Jovan's First Year

2009-09-29T23:46:00.003+08:00

For those who had missed Jovan's birthday party, this is a clip that I had shown during the party

Lousy Tuesday

2009-09-15T17:30:00.001+08:00

Today is a lousy day becos my OM just spoilt my day before lunch time. We are going to have a reallocation of work scope for the next 3-4weeks until another Admin return from leave. LS from Aust said that the ratio of Admin to RM is 1 : 5 but some countries are running at 1 : 7 or 1 : 9. Meaning I’m handling below what is expected. Well who tell them to sack people. I used to run 1 : 7 without any problem even when I had a demanding RM within my team. It was good for the job market during that time. We were always busy. I did not complain as the RMs in my team are the best, most considerate & discipline people compared to the other RMs. They never make my life miserable as now. It really depends on the RM’s character. If my current RMs multiple by 2 or 3 times, I won’t grumble because I know they won’t give me shitty stuff.

I wish my OM is capable, organised, smart and able to manage her boss well instead of being a bootlicker, trying to please everyone. There is nothing I can learn from her compared to my previous bosses

For the next 3 weeks, I foresee getting nonsense or last minute tasks and inconsiderate attitude from the other team. I do hope I don get them and time will fly pass very soon. I’m looking forward to the new challenge to see how capable I am but please do not misunderstand that I like the new scope.

Jovan can walk !!

2009-09-02T11:51:00.002+08:00

Yes, Jovan can walk now. He is proud of his walking skill that he don't wish to crawl. At his nainai's house, he will walk everywhere. At home, he will carry either a tennis racket or yoyo and walk around the house.
Once, he climbed up the coffee table and sat there clapping for his accomplishment. Nainai was horrified and quickly got him down the table.. haha..
I bought him a pair of sandal and he loves it dearly. He will get his sandal whenever we tell him that we are going out. Another "flower legs"
In one month time, he will be 1 year old. I'm sure he can run by then.. :)

Swimming Marathon

2009-08-16T22:19:00.004+08:00

For the past 3 weekends, we had been visiting the beach, Water Play @ Zoo, Seng Kang Swimming Complex and Choa Chu Kang Swimming Complex.. Every weekends were get wet outing. Reason? Because our kids love it..

We went to the Water Play @ the Zoo as it was Jolie's birthday. Caden, Camille, Cara, Risa, Keevan, Jovan and Jolie were all excited. Regretted that I should have brought extra clothings, I had to refrain from getting wet..

Last Sun, which was National Day, the same group of us went to ECP, which was blogged already. Then the next day, my sis suddenly suggested that we visit the newly open swimming complex at Seng Kang as it was reported to have water play for kids. With excitement, we 'vroom' there.. I guess the water was freezing cold, Keevan and Jovan did not really enjoy themselves. Even Toon was complaining the coldness. The only item for kids is a wading pool with a playground built in the centre. They could not visit another pool as the water was deep. although they have various slides, they are meant of 1.2m height and above. Jolie could not play at all. she was 1.1m .. Haiz.. As the babies showed unhappiness and started to cranky, we decided to get change. Only then we realise how tough it was to find a shower cubicle. My sis and mom had to share and my mom had to wait for me to join her before she could leave the cubicle. Whole lots of people are queuing. The children changing room was dirty especially the toilets. All the 3 cubicles toilet's bowls and floor were stained with poo poo.. Yuck, it was unsightly!! We were saying that in future we should go back to CCK one. At least it had a wave pool..

So.. this afternoon we went to the swimming pool in CCK. Jovan enjoyed himself at the edge of the wave pool as it allowed him to sit and tap the water. He could crawl around with comfort too. After waiting for 20mins, the pool started to generate waves. Cool!! We were swept to the shore by the strong waves. The kids was laughing, showing their joy. However, we did not enjoy it for long. Heavy rain came and we had to get out of the pool. Supposedly we wanted to continue after the rain stopped but it seems so heavy that it won't stop any sooner and the kids were shivering. We quickly changed and left for dinner.

During dinner, we discuss about our next outing.. This time not another pool again. We plan to visit the Indoor Play Maze at Jurong Safra next Saturday...

We are proud to be Singaporeans

2009-08-10T23:41:00.004+08:00

This is Home..

Truly where i know I must be

This is where i won't be alone...

For this where I know I'm HOME..

It was our National 44th Birthday yesterday also Toon and I 12th anniversary of togetherness. How did you celebrate this day?

Marine Parade GRC had organised a mini celebration at Joo Seng estate. All residents were assembled at the basketball court at 9am. We were given flags and i'm not sure if many were told to wear our national colour, almost 80% of us were in red and white. WE were in red and white too..

After the pledge and national anthem, I had to leave to do facial for customers however we planned a beach trip in the late afternoon. Jolie and Jovan stayed on to enjoy the games and fun with Yeye and Nainai.

After Toon picked me up from customer's house, we packed to go to the beach with Yeo Family. Jolie was excited as she could play with Caden, Camille, Cara and Risa. Ah Bert Gudah brought a rubber boat too.

We found a spot at ECP area F and settled down. All kids ran to the sand and started to build sandcastle... (none actually managed to build one in the end.. haha) They were too busy enjoying writing on the sand and the waves and splashed while sitting in the rubber boat.

Jovan, needless to say, was enjoying himself too. he kept wanting to crawl down the sea. We had a hard time stopping him. (that was the reason why we can't take many pictures.)

When we were getting tired and cold, it was the time that we realised there isn't any toilet nearby.. Gosh!!! we had to use the plain water that we brought from home and Ice Mountain water to wash the kids.. so expensive.. hee.. TIP: future, we go to a spot that has toilets..

We went to Ah Po's house after the beach to watch the NDP and fireworks from the corridor. Dinner was great too. There were crabs, BBQ Chicken, Fish and Prawn, lastly Fermented Doufu.. OMG at first it wasn't smelly to me but the moment they said that Jovan had passed motion, I could not help but related both the poo and fermented doufu smell together and puke out all.

Haiz, guess I'm not going to try it anymore.

Driving Trip to Muar

2009-08-03T23:31:00.003+08:00

Last Sat, we planned a day trip to Muar to visit the "Shan Cai Tong Zi" temple. We went in with 2 cars, ours and Ivan. The journey took closed to 2hrs to arrive.

After taking some pictures of the temple, sis, mom and I decided to find a spot to let our children had their lunch. We saw a mommy dog feeding her puppies. It was a scene that you will hardly see in Singapore.

The weather was scorching hot. Sis decided to on her car engine and stayed inside to enjoy aircon while waiting for the rest to finish praying. When I noticed that they were going to be done, I used my car auto-engine-on to start my car too. Thinking to cool the car before they got in. As the engine will stop after 10mins without the car key, i decided to insert the car key. That was when Bad Thing happened. After closing my boot, i went back to sis's to look after Jovan. When Toon came to open our car door, he could not. OMG, we had locked ourselves out from the car. How?? Both toon and I was puzzled on why the car automatically lock-up as it had never happen before. Our car only lock-up when it reaches a certain RPM. Anyway that did not matter. Everyone was so hot and started to blame me for starting the engine early. Haiz... how I know?? Luckily, Ivan's supplier in Muar knew a car locksmith and he could arrive our venue within 45mins. Phew!

The locksmith insert cushion to squeeze out a gap between the door and car so that he could insert a metal stick to unlock the car. The metal could not press on the unlock button so we decided to go for the window button. After a few attempts, he finally managed to wind down the back window. I quickly unlock the back door and got into the car to unlock all doors. It cost RM80 for this service. We took his namecard in case our friends or touch wood we need him again.

After that, we went to have lunch and visit the Giant Hypermart. Gosh inside the mall, there was a playground and few kiddies rides.. and the rides are free. All you need to do is to press the start button. Jolie again, was so excited. She ran into the playground when Toon gave her a nod. Jovan and Keevan sat on the kiddies rides. (photos are with my sis)

Our purpose to Giant was to buy cheap diapers but there was no promo so I gave up and decided to leave the place early to see if we had time to buy them in Singapore.

The journey back was long and I was sure Toon was tired. We reached Singapore around 9pm and went for dinner before going home. I leave the diapers shopping to the next day as we had to rest well for Zoo too...

Princess Jolie's 5th Birthday Celebration in School

2009-07-31T13:26:00.006+08:00

time flies really fast. Last year, i remembered that we were busy preparing her Barney's theme birthday, this year we have to get really for POWER RANGER theme.

I those Jolie that she won't have big celebration this year but I promise her to do a big one next year. She will be K2 next year and everyone will be leaving to another school for Primary studies. It is the last chance she will enjoy her classmates' companion.

I DIY power ranger coloring book for all of them. Lucky I have Jasmine to lend me the power ranger cake toppers, if not I will be cracking my head. I don like the one from Polar as it is not 3D

As I'm arranging the cake and goodies bags on the table, all the kids went round me and said, Power Ranger.. oh SPD.. oh.. operation overdrive.. OMG.... Mrs Tan, the principal came over and told us that Jolie was anticipating for her celebration to commence.. She is a very nice lady. She helped us to solve the transport problem for Jolie to attend Speech & Drama class.

Even Jovan was happy. he was screaming, clapping his hands and laughing. Of course, he can't wait for the cake to be eaten too.

>

After the teabreak, the children quickly gathered around the cake, waiting to sing birthday song. In CBK, they will sing 3 sets of birthday song, - English, Chinese and Christian versions..

I'm sure the cake was good, a few children asked for 2nd piece. The whole cake was gone in minutes..

Celebrating kids birthday is always fun.. the happiness shown on their faces are so priceless and it give you satisfaction..

Di you realise something was missing??? Both Toon & I were busy taking pictures for the kids that we forgot to take pictures with our lovely princess together with the cake... so funny...

Next celebration coming up will the Jovan's First Birthday... It will be a big one.. I'm in the midst of preparing. Be patient and wait for the time to come....

Trip to Singapore Science Centre

2009-07-29T14:08:00.005+08:00

It has been a long time since i stepped into Science Centre. it was Jolie and Jovan first trip too. Been young, Jovan don understand what's going on what he enjoyed the colourful surroundings. To Jolie was an eye-opener. She ran around the place, playing the experiments. The saddest thing was she could not play in the water park as i did not know it has a water park so never bring extra clothings. if you have not visit Science Centre for a while, you will pay a visit one day. It has changed so much.

We were welcomed with a hugh Trynnosaurus Rex at the entrance.

Inside the centre, there are various themes such as space & IT, Water and natures etc.. We went everywhere and hit for the Onmitheatre for the film on extinct dinosaur fish. Poor Nai Nai, the steps inside the theatre are very steep, and to get a good view, we had to sit at a higher level. Jovan was caught by the vast screen too. The movements of the fish, and colourful scene mesmerized him.

Our Weights on earth, Jupiter , Mar and Moon... Toon is heaviest.. always the case.. hehehahhah

There is a chair that was used in the past to kill criminals that were sentenced to death. Paid $1, you can enjoy been electrocuted.

Body Builder - Koko & Toon Toon

After the show, we popped by the Mac to get a quick bite before picking Ye Ye up for dinner.

Father in law 60th Birthday

2009-07-24T12:55:00.006+08:00

On fathers' day, all my father in law had was a plate of Cha Kuey Teow and he paid for it.. hahaha.. Could not remember where we went earlier but we were too full to have proper dinner so Toon drove to Champ Chong Market and we ordered junk food to eat.

Sound pathetic? Not to worry, we compensated him on his birthday after 2 weeks. Toon booked the Korean BBQ place which we went on my birthday. Haha, when we reached there, it was all packed. There were people waiting too. MIL asked an auntie how long she had been waiting. Her replied was 1hr.. 1 HOUR!!! and she had made reservations. Does that mean we had to wait 2hrs before we could eat. Toon decided to stay awhile and checked the situation. During our waiting time, we took some pictures at the balcony.

After 30mins, we decided to leave. The Korean Boss told us to return during weekdays evening and he will give us 10% discount. CHeerio to Korean Hospitality !!

Where did we go for dinner then? A Hokkien Restuarant at Jalan Besar. We had a feast - Cold Dish Combination, Salted Roast Chicken, Fish Maw Broth, Scallops w Broccoli, their famous Hokkien Mee.. We were so full.

Daddy's Birthday

2009-07-24T12:25:00.005+08:00

Father's day was my dad birthday. After a long debate, sis and i finally settle for Lobster porridge dinner at Beer Garden, along Sembawang Road, near to AVA. It was our first trip so Toon and I jsut left the ordering to sis and Ivan.

We had different types of seafood and suddenly 1 big flower pot look-a-like arrived. It was the Lobster porridge.. OMG, so big??? The porridge was boiling hot. We had to scoop in bowls and leave them to cool. Just when mom is scooping the porridge, Jovan reached out for one of the bowl of porridge and "whaaaaaaa..." he cried. The soup has scald his little fingers. Without hesitation, i rushed him to the tap and put his hands on running water. He stopped crying and started to play with the water. Haiyo.. playful even when hurt. Mom saw there were aloe vera plants, she asked the staff to cut some for her. She applied the aloe vera flesh on Jovan's fingers. Mom said that the cooling effect of the aloe will prevent blister. True enough, the redness started to reduce and he soon forgot what had happened.

Keevan says "Haiyo"

Cutie Boy eating French Loaf

2009-07-22T22:44:00.006+08:00

Have you seen little baby eating bread? I had seen one last night. Jolie could not finish her french load thus I decided to pass to Jovan to see his reaction. Our "rubber stomach" boy chose to eat it. We could not stop laughing over his eating patterns. I quickly video him.

Having Fun @ O'zone Kids - OCC

2009-06-29T10:58:00.005+08:00

Yesterday, sis and i explored a new indoor playground at Orchid Country Club. The price is so much reasonable. S$8/hr for puble, S$7/hr for Passion card or NTUC member, S$6/hr for OCC member and S$1/hr for accompanying adult.

When Jovan, Jolie and Keevan reached the playground, they were elated. little that we knew that Jovan was the craziest among the 3. He hacked care the rest, crawled around the playland, exploring the slide, balls, tunnels and scream with joys. He played so much that he was so tired after 1hr.

Jolie made a new friend and both of them were busy playing the shooting game. Then a group of kids joined in by snatching balls away from them. I had no choice but to play a bad woman by standing there to snatch the balls back

Ba4 Wang2 Can1 (Free Food) for us

2009-06-28T00:53:00.003+08:00

My birthday had just passed. If you asked me what had I done, all I remember clearly was the FREE Korean buffet dinner that I had just with Toon, Ivan and sis. It was a surprise to see ivan and sis at the restaurant. i did not know what I will be eating until Toon drove towards Katong. I made a correct guess that we were going to a new korean restaurant that I had told Toon.

Once we reached, we started our feast. the beef were so tasty. The lady boss even offer to cook for us. while we were enjoying our food, the power went off. "OMG" what happened? They said I so "salty" i.e unlucky.. After waiting for a while, we speculated that we might have to leave the restuarant BUT do we need to pay? Then, the boss came by and informed us that it will take a while to fix the short circuit, should we decide to leave, we could simply walk off without paying.

Since we already felt full, we decided to leave. We felt bad for the restaurant too. It would be a big loss for them. We admired their korean hospitality. If it was a chinese restaurant, we are pretty sure tat we will only get discount for the meal.

We will visit the restaurant again soon :)

Kids FUN @ Playground

2009-06-28T00:38:00.003+08:00

Last thursday, i arranged Penny's kids to come and play with Jolie and Jovan since we stayed near to each other. It almost din take place becos Penny's son Dylan had a hair splinter in his toe. Luckily it din cause pain that they decide to monitor the situation and leave it till the next day.

We rushed home after work, had a quick dinner and went over to fetch them. They played at the playground below my blk as it is the one of the biggest around our place. Jolie, needless to say, was bossy throughout the play. Chloe and Dylan were chatty too. They had a great fun with Toon playing soccer. Jovan was busy moving around in his walker.

When Dylan wished to visit the toilet, we brought all of them back to our house. Second round of fun started again. From, computer to bicycle to little tites playground to Wii... they were enjoying themselves crazily. Dylan's face was so red that he looked like ang moh kid..

Soon it was getting, we sent them home and agreed that we will fix another outing again.

My Nephew, Keevan's first birthday

2009-06-11T22:33:00.004+08:00

Time flies fast.. my little nephew is one today! This little rascal is very active, playful boy. He is Jovan's playmate. They will fight for toys and dirty themselves at the corridor.

Sis decided to hold his birthday at Grassroots' Club considering the accessibility of the location and the facility of the Children's room. There is a huge play maze within the room which will make all the children scream with joy. Jovan was not excluded too. He enjoyed himself very much in the pool of balls and land of animal's riders. Jolie was crazily spinning around the play maze too.

Since the room is decorated with carebears, sis decided to have a carebear designed cake as well. she bought the carebear cake toppers and asked e-Creative to design. It look nice. Everyone enjoyed and had a great evening

Zoo Trip - 5 Jun 09

2009-06-08T23:30:00.004+08:00

Last Friday, both Toon and I took leave just to watch Jolie's super short performance from her Speech & Drama class.. hehehe..

The story was about how a caterpiller becomes a beautiful butterfly. Jolie's lines were pretty long but compared to Ryan, it was still easy. Ryan had a tongue twister portion to say. He got them right and all parents applauded.

This is Abigail. Jolie's buddy in class

(This is Ryan. He is Jolie's good friend.. )

Since the event ended in the morning, we decided to visit the zoo if my sis was able to get the corporate zoo cards for us. We managed to get 2 cards which mean, we can have 8-10pax entering for free. Since it was school holidays, I asked Caden, Camile and Cara along. The kids were super excited.. not much about the animals they were going to see but the water play in the Children's Playground.

When we reached the zoo, they simply walked fast hopping to reach the spot as soon as possible.
Nainai had to chase after us while pushing the pram.. :)

I bought Jovan a swimsuit to keep him warm and delay his time of having to end his water play. Lucky I brought a pant along. The ground was rough that his knees were redden by his crawls. With the pant, he crawled faster and happier. However, i missed out a detail. His toes were not protected that his big toe's skin was scratch and blood ooze out. I quickly carried him out of the play and changed him. My poor boy.. On our next trip, i will bring sock for him. :)

We played till the closing announcement was broadcast. Everyone started to change. By this time, the kids were very tired but we only had 3 adults, could not carry them. We made them walked out of the zoo by telling them that they would have KFC for dinner.

Along the way, a family stared at us.. Why?? becos they were thinking if I gave birth to 5 kids. hahahah.. They asked my MIL..

Bringing those little ones out could be tiring but seeing them enjoyed, it was all worthwhile..

Babies @ the Pub

2009-06-01T22:27:00.003+08:00

Have you seen babies in KTV Pub? Have you seen kid singing in KTV pub? If you are at a Pub in Yishun last weekend, you will see 2 babies and 1 toddler enjoying themselves.

It was Jovan, Jolie and Keevan first clubbing experience. My sis suggested that we popped by a regular pub for a short karaoke session since it was early and there wont be crowd. Both Keevan and Jovan were excited. They could not stop glazing at the moving lightings. I placed Jovan at the bar top and he quickly stood up holding the pole.

While the babies are playing, Jolie was waiting for her songs to come. She sang a few songs – 没有如果，蒲公英的约定，最长的电影，别在伤口撒盐。I was her back-up singer. Sis recorded Jolie's voice but i forgot to ask her to bluetooth the file to me.. be patient.. i will get from her this coming Sat.

Soon the babies were tired and fell asleep in the loud music. Haha.. 胎教！We continue our karaoke even when we were pregnant.. Guess our kids are used to the loud environment and instill with the music talent..

Jolie's Replies

2009-05-21T12:48:00.004+08:00

Recently, Jolie created a few laugable moments. We can't said that she was wrong in certain wayas but it does show her quick response and smartness... Here are 2 of the happenings.

"I'm a gal"
One morning, Jolie's grandma brought her along for marketing. She loved to sit in the marketing trolley thus she asked nainai to help her in. When nainai was pushing her from stall to stall, a stall-owner who knew her started to tease her. "Hey, you are vegetables sitting in the trolley, " said the uncle. Guess what Jolie's reply?
我不是菜 ok，我有眼睛，鼻子，嘴巴，耳朵。我哪里像菜。我是人 ok！ (in eng: she's not veg, she has nose, eyes, mouth so i'm not veg, i'm a human being)
After this reply, nainai was laughing out loud altho she felt slight embarrassment.

"Skipping Ropes"
Her grand-aunt came to nai nai's house. So Jolie used this opportunity to kotok her. Brought her Grand-aunt to supermarket but she can't find anything she liked. So they went to a small shop and she found skipping rope. When they were going to pay for it, jolie asked to buy 2 sets. Grandaunt asked her why and she replied one is for jovan.. Grandaunt told her Jovan is still a baby to know how to play and guess what Jolie's reply?
Buy now cos when Jovan is big, this shop may not be still open .. !!!
wakao.. Grandaunt almost laugh dying..

Jolie's performance for Mothers' Day @ Calvary Baptist Church

2009-05-10T23:55:00.003+08:00

As I'm typing this blog, Mothers' Day had just past 10mins. Morning, Jolie had a performance at the CBC during the service. Mom and MIL both attended with us. After the Sing & Praise, mom and I brought Jovan to the Playroom to play and drink milk. He did enjoyed himself with the toys.

After sometime, the Gospel sharing had ended, we went back to the main hall to watch the children's performances.

After church's service, we went to Illuma, the new shopping mall in Bugis. Sis went to join us too. Although it was a boring mall, we spent abouto 2hrs there. Reason being, we spent 1.5hrs at the Arcade.. It was very spacious and the games are pretty new. THere are 3 gigantic kiddy rides that caught our attention , Doremon; Ultraman & Pikachu.. I think we took quite a no. of rides with our kids.

Thereafter we split and we went to pick up FIL for steamboat dinner. And I saw Shi Xin Hui, the Spore Superstar.. She camouflag herself pretty well that at first glance, I could not recognise her. It was after few glances that I confirmed it was her.. Petite.. makeup too heavy so can't see if she's really pretty..

Mom 49th Birthday

2009-05-10T23:23:00.005+08:00

Saturday was my mom's birthday. We made a reservations at Peach Garden Restuarant for dim sum. As usual my parents and sis's family reached the venue on time while we were late for 30mins.. .kena suan again of course.. We had Peiking Duck this time, yummy. . We had such a feast that none of us wanted any dessert.

While resting after the food, the kids had a wonderful time. Keevan and Jovan were crawling on the carpet and Jolie was playing with her all-time favorite playmate - my dad, her Gong Gong...

We had a walk in Thomson Plaza and played 2 kiddy rides.. the one that u seen in the pictures was the one that made all of us giddy. The spin was fast. I had a bad motion sickness after that.

Since Toon wanted to visit B.IR.D by Nike at Vivocity, we all went there. Hee, my Toon always have problem buying sport wear as the size don't cater to big size guy.. thus he spent a long that we gave up waiting and decided to have our coffee break at Ya Kun Harborfront.. Jovan was enjoying the half-boiled eggs, barley drink so much.

After Toon joined us back, we moved on to the water play at the open space. After all the hassle of changing the kids into short and casuals, we stopped the play for 2 rascals after 10mins. The floor was too rough for them to crawl and yet they tried to crawl. Their knees were red.

Guess what after we left the water play, Jolie complained that she was hungry?? Thot she jsut had toast bread? This rubber-stomach Sis, always said she's hungry but eat only a little.. Ivan brought her to buy a bun and we went off to Giant.. Sis wanna buy a HotFlask. We ramsack the place and found one that cost S$40+.. fit her requirement and budget..

Soon it was evening and we were all tired that we said good bye and gone home.

Happy Mother's Day !!!

2009-05-06T09:36:00.002+08:00

Mother’s day is coming on this Sunday. This year I will have 2 kids celebrating for me. I’m glad that I blessed with 2 adorable kids. Jolie although can be throwing temper for nothing, she is an obedient gal. She will listen if we explain. Jovan, although still a baby, he knows what he wants and he can smile to anyone anywhere. Bringing them anywhere will always get compliments from the crowd.

Jolie will be performing at the Church that she’s studying in. She is very excited and we all, including my MIL, mom probably Thoo-Mai will be going to watch her. Haha my DSLR can be put to a great use. She has this music talent in her that she can catch the tempo and beats correctly. If time permit, I hope to send her for dance class such as hip-hop, jazz etc.

This is a day to celebrate my mom’s birthday too. She’s so fortunate that every year it seems like everybody is celebrating her birthday. Places of food will always be crowded that reservation has to be made. This year my sister and I are suppose to buy her a Blue Label Burberry Clutch but didn’t work out so we are planning for other thing.

I wonder how will Toontoon celebrate my Mother’s Day??

Jovan's development

2009-04-11T22:49:00.004+08:00

This morning we brought Jovan for his 5in1 jab. At 6 months, he now weighs 7.998kg with the height of 67cm. Dr Lee said that he's on average size except head slightly big.. hee .. She commented that his development is very good after she ran thru various checks. His active and fast reaction pleased her too. We were very happy of course.

FYI - Separating HepB jabs for baby if mother is HepB carrier
I always thought that with the new modified immunisation procedure (4jabs total), it will ensure Jovan are protected from Hep B, since I'm a Hep B carrier. However, Dr Lee said that there's no proven record thus she prefer Jovan to separate his HepB jab i.e. he was suppose to take his last jab (infarix 6in1) which contain HepB, he was jab with 5in1 instead. the Hep B is to be done 1 month later and when he reach 10mths, he has to do blood test to see if he has any antibodies. If zero, mean he needs booster, if have mean no need. Haiz different doctor said different things but I think I agree with Dr Lee since it concern to health, we don't take it lightly..

Shout!! Buy Yves Rocher in Singapore

2009-04-11T22:41:00.002+08:00

Finally I had done up a simple website to sell Yves Rocher skincare products. For those who do not know Yves Rocher, it is a French botanical skincare that has more than 40yrs of history. They used to be on retail in Singapore but was pulled out few years ago. Having been their loyal customer, I search high and low for it and finally I manage to contact the Asia HQ and import the products.

Dear Yves Rocher Users, you can now get the products in Singapore from http://kyln.blogspot.com/. I will try to post up all the items but should you not find the particular item that you are using, please feel free to contact me. Occasionally, I will also post other brands of Beauty Products that I have on hand. Products sold in the website are genuine and original.

Marina Barrage - 4 April 09

2009-04-06T17:36:00.004+08:00

Last Sat, we decided to visit Marina Barrage - to put my DSLR to full use and to let Jolie and Jovan have fun at the Water Playground.

Gosh lucky we went at 5pm if not we would be roasted.. The carpark is so far away from the place. My poor MIL, she was like "OMG so far" haha

finally we rached the place. Wow wat a spacious venue. So many people.. The childrean were playiing happily at the water area or flying kites at the greens..while the adults were having picnic

Jovan enjoyed the water sprouts. Jolie no need to say, she was running area wildly.. We were there for 2hrs before we headed off for our dinner.. promisin jolie that we will bring her there again with caden, camille, cara n risa..

p.s. I love my DSLR.. These pictures turn out so beautifully with detail expression. It is like the photos are telling a story...

Jovan's recovery from his Bronchitis

2009-04-04T14:02:00.004+08:00

Last 3 weeks were so hectic for me. Jovan suddenly start to sneeze and cough. We decided to bring him to see our usual GP. 1 week passed, he din recover after taking ponstan and flu medicine and I could hear that he has alot of phelgm. With worried, I decided to bring him to see his Paedi. Dr Lim said that he was having bronchitis and he had ton of phelgm in his lungs.. He passed me his steroscope to listen.. OMG I could hear pop pop sound and he was wheezing. We had to bring him for physio chest session where the Therapist pat both his sides under armpit for 5mins to loosen the mucus in his lungs (this method is good for kids n adult during phelgm cough) before using the tiny tube to suck out. The session did remove quite a fair bit of mucus but Dr Lim was not satified with the post result. Lucky his condition was not that critical that need to be admitted, we were sent home with neubuliser and some medicine while his mucus was sent for virus test.
Few days past, Dr Lim called to check on Jovan and mentioned that his sickness was due to bacteria infection, not virus so at our follow-up the next day, he woulld administer antibiotics. At the follow-up, Jovan still did not improve much so Dr Lim top up another medicine - steriod. Headache !! Steriod is a very untasty medicine, how would Jovan take without crying?? Our brave little one did not make noise at all thru out the 3 feeds.. Phew!
With these medicines administered, he slowly show signs of recovery. He hardly cough and the mucus reduce. At the 2nd follow-up, Dr Lim said that he has recovered. Lungs are working very well and his cough has self recovered. Hurray!! We are very happy especially me. I had sleepless nights throu out his sick period cos i had to gave him the neubuliser even in the middle of night too.
This whole episode cost us S$400.. wow medical bills have really gone up.. From this lesson, i realise baby under 1 yr, it is best to bring them to see Paedi than GP. Paedi has more experience.
Now Jovan weighs 7.6kg at 6mth. Dr Lim said like father like son.. hahahha

My New Gadget - Canon EOS1000D

2009-03-21T11:43:00.007+08:00

I bought a DSLR at Harvey Norman during IT Show 1 week ago. Why did I buy it? It give me the pictures I want. My compact digital camera cant produce the kinds of pictures I want. See this picture of Jolie, her features stood-out with the background slightly blur. Her expression was well-captured with her eyes focused..

I try out Nikon D60 before i decided to buy Canon EOS1000D.. Canon give a sharper picture and this promo came with a extra long len for only S$99 (UPS$459). I love the long len which allows me to zoom in my subject more. See how clear is the shot taken. Oh Yeah that my new family toy - Nintendo Wii..

This picture is taken by Jolie. She can take nice picture right :)

I spent a bomb during this IT show.. I need to cut back on my shopping for next month.. haha.. but is worth it..

Thumbs up for "Unexpected Access"

2009-03-08T22:29:00.003+08:00

I'm sure many had watched Unexpected Access and commented that first episode was too much to bear.. ended up the following episodes have more censorship. Oh well let's not talk about teh censorship. I love tonight episode on children's cleft & cranialfacial department in KKH. These doctors and nurses are truly admired by me. They help to resolve many children's problem and build up their confidence. I could not control myself but tears when I saw little Ivan's burnt. It is very disheartening such a young boy with 50% burnt on his face and body.. When the nurses redress his wounds, although he cries, he shows his courage too. I'm sure he will grow up to be a very strong and brave guy.
Next I saw a little boy with a unique disease. I could not make out the medical term they use but his eyes were popping out and surgery has to be done to recontruct his facial bone..
The surgical part may be quite gross but It really tel us how the surgeons work..
This episode reminded me of Jovan's days in KKH ICU. It was nightmare when I knew he needed surgery but the medical teams set our minds and hearts at ease. I respect them for giving their very best..
Li-Lin is really brave to take up this assignments. I'm sure she learn alot through such life experiences.

Memorable Birthday

2009-03-04T17:04:00.003+08:00

We had our most laugh last night when all the plans that I made to celebrate Toon’s birthday became flop. First, the florist I ordered flowers from delay the delivery time and Toon missed seeing it as he was out for meeting in the afternoon. The flowers was supposed to send my invitation to him for Dinner Buffet. Lucky I called him at 6pm to check if he was ready to leave office. Only then I found out that he knew nothing about it.

Second, when we reached the restaurant 10 @ Claymore, I was shocked to hear that there was no brazilian grill in the buffet menu. The staff had provided me with the wrong information. I was so disappointment as there was nothing special to eat at restaurant. The Manager apologized for the misunderstanding and offered us complimentary red wine and a piece of birthday cake for Toon. What went out well was that we seem to have the whole restaurant to ourselves. The food were meant specially for us. We did feel like VIP.

Lastly, when we got home to cut the birthday cake that we had ordered, it turned out that the fillings was wrong. I asked for chocolate sponge cake with fresh cream fillings and coatings. Ended up, it was chocolate sponge cake with chocolate filling and fresh cream coating. It was so sweet that none of us like it including Jolie who has a sweet tooth. Luckily the design of the cake was correct – Soccer theme.. If not I would have faint…

Nevertheless, we had such a great time as Jolie enjoyed putting 32 candles on the cake, blowing and cutting. I told her that this year she could cut the cake for her dad alone but next year, she will have her little brother to fight with her.. Can’t imagine 33 candles and 2 knives.. hahaha..
What a way to remember his birthday always!! At least when I ask him next year what we did this year, he will remember he had such a memorable day…

First Pulau Ubin Trip

2009-02-08T12:36:00.004+08:00

Yes Yes, it was Jolie, Jovan and my first trip to Pulau Ubin.. You must be thinking I'm a mountain tortorise..

Anyway sis asked us to visit the island for seafood lunch. Thinking that JOlie and Jovan had not taken a boat ride before, we decided to go. Jolie was excited. She kept pestering gong gong to bring her around. During lunch time, there was a group of volunteers from National Parks sitting beside us. One lady was attracted by Jovan and decided to carry him while I had my lunch. Jovan enjoy her cuddling too hat he fell asleep.. She's a nice lady and I think she is looking forward to be grandma soon.

After lunch which was good, Gong gong rented a bike to bring Jolie around the island while we walk.. The toilets was clean but the water was brown as it is the earth water. It was an eye opener for me after my grandma had to gave up her kampong house in Lim Chu Kang..

Jovan First CNY 2009

2009-02-08T12:19:00.003+08:00

This year is Jovan's first CNY celebration. He was 4th month old on the first day of CNY. Supposedly I was worried that he has not enough new clothings to wear. Yet now he still have new clothes left in his wardrobe. I also manage to find some nice dress for Jolie nearer the date. She is quite choosy now thus sometime i can visit few shops yet can't find anything i know she will like.

This year CNY was pretty quiet, guess due to it fell on weekdays where people had to start work on the 3rd day of CNY. The only thing I'm looking forward was mahjong. Luckily I manage to play at least once..

Jovan was good boy during our CNY visiting too. Such a relieve..

Soon CNY will be over tomorrow.. The next celebration should be Valentine Day and our 5th Wedding Anniversary.. :)

Jolie singing Karaoke

2009-02-08T12:02:00.003+08:00

Toon fix our sound system when we bought a new TV. This mean we can sing karaoke again. Jolie was so excited that she wanted us to play Jay chou's songs for her to sing. We were so impress by her.. No wonder her little uncle Caden said we are the singing family... hhahah

check her singing skill ...

Jovan watching 意难忘

2009-01-20T12:08:00.003+08:00

our dear Jovan enjoys TV a lot.. See how he's talking to the actors & actresses in the program..

Jovan First Time to the Zoo

2009-01-09T11:48:00.002+08:00

We went to the Zoo on the last day of 2008.. We were excited as it was Jovan first trip to the zoo.. It started to rain when we reached so we spent some time at the KFC.

See this 2 sunshine boys ...

We shuffled quickly into the zoo when the rain stopped. You could see that JOlie is busy with the map looking at where the animals that she would like to see were. We all wondered how she would understand the map.. anyway she saw the animal icon and told me where she wished to go.

The zoo has recently renovated the Kids World. It is a whole lots fun now.. Too bad I did not bring my swimwear if not I don mind getting myself wet. Our kids were having tons of fun especially JOlie. She waited for the big bucket of water to be full and poured on her..

Zoo is my fav attraction to visit. no matter when, I always love going to the zoo. Those animals never fail to surprise me with their new tricks. When we were leaving the zoo, there was a monkey ignoring the zookeeper who was wanting to bring it to the enclosed area to rest for the night. The monkey was sleeping soundly high up on the net. Poor zookeeper, he had to wait till 9pm and if it still don come to him, it will be left up there knowing that it will sleep thru the night. So cute...

We went to eat steamboat after that and had a game of mahjong at my house while counting down for new year... I won so does it mean that this new year will be a good one for me???

Family Holiday to Genting & A'Farmosa

2008-12-29T12:31:00.004+08:00

This year Christmas, my sis proposed to go for a short holiday. We were contemplating to go Turi Beach Resort or A'Farmosa but we decided to go the latter as Toon wished to try our new car's engine horse power..

When the day came, my sis proposed to go up Genting in the morning and return to Melaka in the afternoon. We woke up at 4am and left at 5am. Jolie and Jovan were both snoring still.. Lucky, there was no jam at the Causeway and we were on the NS Highway by 7am.

Jolie could not wait to reach Genting as she knew that a vast playland is welcoming her.. As for Jovan, it was his first Malaysia trip. He behave very well during the car journey, either sleep or drink milk.. but Keevan was not so good. He was having fever probably due to teething.. sighing non-stop..

Genting was cold and foggy. We did not visit the outdoor theme park as it was too cold for the kids. After a coffee break, Toon, dad, Ivan and sis went for an hour casino while mom and I look after the 3 kids. We went to the indoor arcade but Jolie did not enjoy much as their card reader system was terribly bad.. I almost got cheaten for my money as the reader swipe my card but did not activate the game.

Soon sis and Toon came to join us. Sis won't RM1k while Toon lost RM1.5k.. Haiyo... We proceed to First World Indoor Theme Park. That was where Jolie ran and flew like fairy. SHe was so happy hopping for 1 ride to another.

Soon it was time to leave for Melaka. We had dinner at Mushroom Village which was just a down turn of Genting Highland. . THe place was run-down but full of sculptures. We could not take picture as it was too cold.

When we reached A'Farmosa, it was already 9pm.. Mom told us to let the guys enter the apartment first and guess what, the electricity tripped and we demanded to change apartment which madden the Reception staff..

Anyway we knocked out to sleep after supper and that was when Ivan had a eriee encounter. Something was disturbing his sleep, pulling his blanket, pillow. At first he thought it was my sis but she was sound asleep with Keevan. So purposely shutted his eyes and waited. It happened again and this time, he yelled vulgarity and he felt that it got startled and ran away. Lucky it did not disturb the kids.

Next morning, we planned to visit the Animal Safari but we were shocked when the ticket was RM62 per adult. We gave up and drove back to JB to shop instead. I drove then. Our new car was great. Running at 150km still steady and firm.

We gave up shopping at City Square when sis can't find a lot. After dinner, we encounter another incident. This time, it was my Sis.. She locked her car's key in the boot. After closing the boot, she went OH, Shit!!, we were stunned.. Guess what we did for the next 45mins, we picnic at the petrol station while waiting for the locksmith to arrive. WE were laughing and grinning but yet worrying for Keevan as he was having fever and medicine is in the car..

Soon everything was over and we left for Causeway to return to Singapore. Heng Man no jam that we reach home around 11plus..

The Firemen Family

2008-12-23T00:23:00.003+08:00

Yesterday we were all dressed in red for our outing. I had to get some white clothings for my beauty assignment so I made everyone went on shopping spree with me. Seeing that I had 2 fireman hat, i decided to place it on Jovan and we all had a good laugh. Toon quickly took out his mobile to snap a few shots.

Fire Mom, Fire Jie jie and Fire DiDi.... hhahaha

Isn't him adorable ....

Singapore Flyer

2008-12-19T00:28:00.004+08:00

Last Friday was Robert Half second Dinner & Dance. This time I'm in charge of the event. It took me months to ge everything approved and done. Suppose to have good lucky draw prizes but due to sudden international financial crisis, this portion was scraped off..

Quite disappointing but when i heard from the event organiser, I realise we are fortunate to at least have the D&D, many companies has cancelled/postpone the event to cut cost..

Our D&D was held at Singapore Flyer Megu Hall. One special pre-event activity is taking the Singapore Flyer. Everyone was excited as it was our first experience. Toon and I were excited. The view was pretty good except for the undone part of the Integrated Resort.. Compared to the London Eye which I took few years ago, the scenary in London was so much better.. MAybe because I'm a local.. I already know Singapore so well..

Andy Lau Concert 2008

2008-12-17T18:05:00.002+08:00

Toon bought tickets to watch Andy Lau concert last Sat. it was Andy's second night yet it was still a full house. We got the S$160 tix yet our seats were still far away. Anyway the starting was so-so. He used the musical play to present his songs but i dont really liked it. The ending was good cos he sang all the record songs..
If u ask me if i will go to his concert again, i will say no.. I prefer Jay Zhou or Ah Mei.. :)

Trying our my new Nokia E66

2008-12-09T15:16:00.005+08:00

I just bought my new mobile 2 days ago. It is Nokia E66.. slim and classic. Now i can film and shot anytime I want.. look at my test video below

Funny Faces of Jovan

2008-12-09T15:00:00.003+08:00

Our adorable Boy is 2 months old now.. he's trying to talk and making funny faces every now and then...

Life is precious; Life must be treasured

2008-11-22T23:57:00.004+08:00

I cannot sleep. My mood is low. Just heard from Toon that a couple that we knew in KKH had lost their beloved daughter after battling with Thalessimia for more than 3 months. God has called her home. I feel sad for the couple as they always appeared hopeful and optimistic for their daughter's recovery. I'm sure the wife is devastated now. i hope they will be strong to go on their lives together with their son. Toon is meeting the father now to find out what went wrong.. When their daughter was born 4 years ago, they then realised that they both have Thalessimia and their daughter was diagnose with Thale Major which mean her life is in critical condition. They did not give up on her but tried to save her by 'gambling' that their 2nd child's cord blood can save her life. True enough, her little bro's cord blood matches his sister and the operation was done. Everything went well and suddenly her neck swell and she had to be transferred to ICU isolated room. Nobody can go into the room to see her except parents and medical team. When Jovan discharged from hospital, which we already knew them for 3 weeks, his father was still happily telling that his daughter will be transfer back to High Dependancy Ward on Monday. I was very happy for them as he has go on unpaid leave just to be at the hospital 24/7. He is such a wonderful father. Who knows when Jovan went back to KKH for check-up, he told us that his daughter was still in ICU. He did not tell us much but grumble about the medical team. And this afternoon, we received a sms from him that his daughter had passed away and cremated last Wednesday. We were shocked. I still can't believe it till now...

Life is s unpredictable. We don know when we will lose it or lose our love one. I almost lose Jovan a month ago however I'm grateful that God pulled him thru the critical period. Can you imagine when I was about to discharge from MT A to go home with Jovan, his paediatrician told me that he may has heart problem whereby she had called in a Cardiologist to do a detail scan. The waiting moment for the result was terrible. I can't help but feeling fear.. When the Cardiologist told me that Jovan's aorta is very narrow that he must be transferred to KKH to do operation, I almost faint. I cried like hell. I carried him for 9months, I'm not going to lose him just after seeing him for 3 days. He was immediately put to Mt. A ICU to be administer with PEGI to keep his pre-birth valve open so his lower limps could still get oxygen. Seeing all the needles on him I could feel sharp knife stabbing my heart.. Worst thing was that KKH will only send ambulance to pick Jovan immediately if we can pay 8k of initial medical bill upon admission. We were furious with such policy but we had no choice than to pay the amount so that my son can be transferred at the earliest time. My Paedi made all the neccessary arrangement for my son. Cardiologist, Surgeon all had been booked by her.. We were lucky to have her.

After reaching KKH, the Cardiologist performed another scan on Jovan which shocked us even further.. Jovan was diagnosed with Interrupted Aorta Arch meaning his aorta is not connected at all and there is a 4mm hole and 1 pin-size hole in his heart. My heart sank when i heard that.. My brain is ringing "Will I lose him" repeatedly.. Lucky Toon is there to calm me, without him I think I could have fainted and get myself into post natal blues. Cardiologist told us that operation was plan on the next day.. After seeing Jovan settling down in ICU, we reluctantly went home to rest. NExt morning we went to hospital early to meet the surgeon Dr Shankar. He told us that he will rectify the aorta and mend the hole altogether so Jovan don have to suffer twice of operation pain. He is the best surgeon children heart problem thus we were confident in him. He told us that for our son case, 10 patients he only lost once before due to complication after successful operation. Jovan's success rate was 85-95% which was pretty high.. Although I appeared calm, I was scared like little mouse. The fear is horrifying. The tension became worst when he was being pushed into the operation theatre. We kept telling him to be strong that we were all waiting for him to go home well with us. The wait was killer especially when the end timing has delayed. Lucky the anaetiscian came out to tell us that op completed but they need another hour to warm up the body and stitch the opening. Phew!

After an hour, we were told that his opening could not be close as his heart was swelling, closing will add stress to him so they put a seal and left it open. Dr Shankar planned to close it after 2-3 days when the heart was less swell. We waited patiently for the next few days and they sealed up the opening. Next it was the Pace-Maker and how well is his recovery.. After 1 week plus, Jovan showed good recovery and he was transferred to Step-Down Unit where he was trained to drink milk. We were hoping that his heart beat don't drop but stable and he could finish his milk by bottle fully. Only when both issues were cleared, he could be consider to be discharge from hospital. Another 1 week plus passed, Jovan was ready to go home. We were super duber happy as he can be home to celebrate his full month. Although i din have a proper confinement, I am happy. The toll of having to go to and fro hospital was worthwhile.

All i can say is nothing is more important than having our love ones around and healthy. I will tell Jovan about his condition and that he has to be mature to take care of himself and his health..

Jolie's Performance @ CBK

2008-11-04T13:14:00.003+08:00

25 Oct 08 was Jolie's school graduation day. The school held a concert and all students were to perform on stage. Jolie had 2 dance performances - English & Chinese. She was very excited when her teachers started to teach her and her classmates the steps few months back. When Jovan was in hospital, she even performed to other patients' parents whom we knew while we were there. We were very proud of her as she could remember the steps, rythms and beats. Not to mention, she was selected as one of the 4 Best Chinese Reader in Nursery level.

On that day, Jolie was anxious to prepare herself for the concert. Her costumes were beautiful. After sending her to the rightful classroom, we went to the hall to wait for the concert to start. Since we were told no videography and photography allowed, we did not take any pictures till almost ending time when we saw the other parents started to take pictures. Pictures and video were taken professionally by expert and we paid to have copies.

When Jolie gotten her DVD back few days ago, she was eager to show all of us. From her eyes, we all can tell that she is very happy and confident.

(Jolie with her best friends - Brian [top], Ryan [below] )

Jovan Full Month Party

2008-10-29T14:58:00.004+08:00

Finally is Jovan's full month last Wednesday. We held a party for him at Grassroot Club Children Room. This party was planned before Jovan arrival however we could not confirm until 3 days before the party date. Why? Because we did not know when Jovan could be discharge from the hospital. This is a long story which I will blog later when I have more time.

For now, please enjoy the moments we spent at the party...

Jovan @ Day 1

2008-09-30T09:36:00.003+08:00

My Jovan has finally arrived.. 3.375kg, height 50cm.. He can be consider a big baby.. I need to rest now so full story of his birth will be posted later day..

My Last Trimester Preg Look

2008-09-20T23:56:00.004+08:00

I have not really take a full picture of myself during this pregnancy. Finally i had a chance to do so during my company function at Spore Cricket Club.. I hope I'm not fat tho.. haha

Mid-Autumn Festival

2008-09-20T23:49:00.003+08:00

Last Sunday was mid-autumn festival, we din plan any gathering but last min, we decided to go to Ah Po house to let jolie play with little aunts and uncles. Before we went there, we had some fun at our void deck with MIL's friends

Risa 4th Birthday

2008-09-20T23:26:00.005+08:00

Today Risa celebrate her 4th brithday at her house. We are invited to have a Japanese lunch. Yummy!! my favorite. There were sashimi, sushi, jap curry, miso soup, potato salad, fried bee hoon, last but not least the brithday cake.. Jolie and I had a big feast. I din even had my dinner after that.

Gu-Dah bought each girl a fairy wing set and they simply love it. Wore it through out the party. Jolie even wore it to IKEA jsut now. They had tons of fun. As for me, I'm gald that I got to eat so much nice food before going into my forthcoming confinement. :)

D-Day should be coming anytime

2008-09-15T07:59:00.002+08:00

OMG, Jovan's growth shown stagnant on last Sat's chek up that i had to do a 2nd CTG. From 2.6kg became 2.5kg, movement frequency decrease. Dr Chen told me that If I failed my CTG, I will deliver yesterday. Luckily I pass but i will need to see him again this Wed. Worst Scenario, I will have induce birth on Thurs.

Haiz, don know why this preg seems more hassle than having Jolie. Jolie was such a breeze. Now my left leg has swell more than my right. My hip is giving up on me that I can't really walk. Sometime I wish I could deliver at this moment but I don want. .I prefer Jovan to reach at least 2.9kg.

Beside Jolie is down with high fever and cough, I hope to deliver only after she recovers. Both of us resting at home now. Toon has a day trip to PEnang which he can't cancel. Sickening.. Lucky that this is the last business trip due after I give birth.

Just buzz my massaue to come over to massage for me. Hope she can slot me in as her first customer today so I will be able to move properly for the rest of the day... Caroline Caroline.. pls reply my SMS...

Ashley 1st Birthday

2008-09-05T23:32:00.003+08:00

It was Ashley first birthday 2 weeks ago. She is Toon's colleague precious daughter. The theme was Winnie the Pooh. I'm sure Alice and Don spent a ton on her birthday party. The 2-tier cake was from The Pine Garden and the house was decorated with Pooh balloon, frills etc..

Jolie enjoyed the party too. She was playing with another colleague's daughter happily. Both are about the same age.

Chinese 7th Month Dinner

2008-09-05T23:17:00.003+08:00

Last year, Toon bidded a bottle of hard liqour at a Chinese 7th Month Dinner thus this year we are invited to the dinner again. It was held in an Association opposite Jalan Basar Stadium. I thought, "heng ya" indoor got aircon but sigh... the people simply smoked inside the hall. Being pregnant, I felt pretty uncomfortable with the smell and stuffiness. Nevertheless, we stayed on till end of dinner.

Maternity Leave Starting Soon

2008-09-04T15:11:00.003+08:00

HAHAHA. I'm going for my 4mth maternity leave from 29 Sept. No need to work till after Chinese New Year. I'm so happy that Govt brought back the new baby scheme to 17 Aug which mean I get S$4000 cash and extra 4wks of leave.

I will be going for my CTG next Tues guess I will soon know if I will deliver early. Jovan is back on the preferred growth rate with estimated birth weight at 3kg.. It was slight worry when Gynae said that his growth rate has slow down while i have the calibre to have 3kg baby. Now I don have to worry.

Just pack his clothings. wOw din realise i had bought quite a no. of clothings for him and with what my sis has given me. I have 2 drawers of his clothings ranging from newborn to 6mths. Well I just let him wear smartly daily then.. haha afterall i have the car, can bring him out to see the world frequently.

I pray that my delivery will be a smooth one just like when I was delivering Jolie. Pop and Done..
This time I must have a comfy confinement, make sure i get enough rest and nobody come and disturb me and Jovan.. I must train him and Jolie to sleep early too..

ok i have to do my work le.. sian

Confusing Enhanced Maternity Package

2008-08-23T23:40:00.002+08:00

OH Hurray !! The revised maternity package had been backdated to 17 Aug 08. THis mean Jovan will be eligible for the new scheme. However this is not the end, the legislation will only be ready in Oct i.e. Employers can still deny giving staff the revised benefits. This make things confuse and difficult for us and me. I need to discuss with my HR to see what the final decision. I think I shld be able to get the new benefits since Govt will honor the payout. I cross my fingers.

With the additional 4 weeks leave, i will be able to spend more time with Jovan and also balance my attention between Jovan and Jolie. It will also be a good rest for me as my body is not doing well since i'm pregnant. Time to recuperate. :)

NDP Rally Speech 2008 - Baby Bonus & Cash Rebates

2008-08-18T22:51:00.004+08:00

Finally, the info that i'm waiting is here but this time round, i still need to have some more patience as the full details of the revised baby bonus will only be announced later this week by Wong Gan Seng. The panicky point is that PM Lee did not mentioned when the scheme will be applicable.

In 2004, he mentioned the effective date straight away. I was so happy as Jolie is born after 1 Aug 04. Nevertheless, some brief info were annouced. Maternity leave increase from 12 to 16 weeks with last 4 weeks flexible to take within 1st year of the baby. Childcare leave from 2 to 6 days with another 6 unpaid child-leave in a year. This mean Toon can spend more time with me after i deliver Jovan without affecting his annual leave. First time parents will laugh till their jaws drop as the cash bonus will be much higher.. Hmm i wonder if there will be any increment for 2nd baby.. hehe.. Subsidies for childcare will be increase too. Hurray!. Childcare fee in Singapore can be crazily high. $600-$800 per month less $150 subsidy, still have to pay $450-$650. For middle income family, this can kill. work so hard just to pay their child school fee..

Next is the GST rebate, Growth dividends and PUB bill subsidies.. Oct we will all get some cash again.. I like. Some may said the cash is actually our money but isn't it good when we still get them back.. for spendthrift like me, it is like a saving a/c that payout constantly to ensure i have money to spend.. ha..

OK time to enntertain my princess Jolie and then sleep.. sure sweet dream tonight.. :)

Movie - Money Not Enough 2

2008-08-06T22:38:00.004+08:00

Toon and I went to watch Money Not Enough 2 last night. It was a good movie overall. Although it was funny, it was a realistic and meaning. It shows people's thinking, behaviour most important of all, filial piety.

When one is rich, we tend to show off and act boastful. When a man has a wife, he don treasure her presence. When we grow up, we forget about our parents hardship on bringing us up. All these were shown in the movie. Poor mother was being shuffled between 3 houses. She knew she was a burden but what can she do.. Finally she chose to end her life so as to save her grand daughter. It made the rest of the family members realise that kinship is still the most important thing in life. Living within your means does not mean that you are poor. As per Ah Ong in the movie,"Poor is when there's no love one beside you." This is very true. we can have all the riches in the world but if there's nobody that you can share with, it will be a tradgey..

The most funniest part that I love is when the mother was asking her elder son if he had eaten.. watch it and u will agree with me.

Why people like to use Facebook???

2008-08-06T22:36:00.001+08:00

I don understand why people like to use Facebook then the loading time is so long.. sigh.. poke here n there.. i don see that fun at all...

Farewell Tu-Tu

2008-08-05T00:17:00.003+08:00

It was time for Jolie to dump her pacifier. She had given us her promise to dump her precious when she's 4 yrs old. She was reluctant to do when she woke up in the morning. after much coaxing, she march bravely to the rubbish and kiss good bye to her tu-tu.

Both Toon and I were proud of her.

Jolie's 4th Birthday at Mulia

2008-08-04T23:49:00.006+08:00

Finally we decided to have Jolie's 4th birthday party at Mulia. Toon was supposed to fly to Japan on her birthday but luckily, it was canceled. We organised a BBQ and invited only family members. You won't believe that we had 30 adults 5 kids and 2 babies.. MIL and her maid were so busy 1 week prior to the events to prepare food. We went marketing at NTUC for 2hrs that I had leg cramps after that while my MIL's ankle give up on her. My doting Toon then decided to treat me to a foot massage session. It sure help me to sleep well at night.. [no leg cramp.. hehe]

On the actual day, Toon had to wake up early to go Tekka Market to buy beef and prawns while i woke up slightly later to skew all the food. No joke standing for hours at the basin. legs so tired, waist aching. BUT it was all worthwhile when we saw the happiness on Jolie's face.

At 4pm we went to mulia to decorate the place, set up the area and start fire. By then i was perspiring madly. Guests began to arrive at 6pm. My parents and sis were the earliest to arrive and also to leave becos Keevan is still very young to stay out too late. They missed the cake-cutting ceremony.

All the kids had Barney party hats, masks etc to play. Toon bought fireworks for them to play too. They simply went wild and crazy.

I enjoyed very much too. Eating bit n pieces while mingling around the guests. Poor Toon only had a piece of chicken wing that he had to sleep with grumbling tummy at night.

Jolie received many presents. what's amazing was that all the presents are her what she's yearning for. Auntie Jasmine - Disney Princess Play Dough, YeeYee - Barney balloon and Easal Stand, WanMai Po - Piano, Angie - Art & Craft kit, Rei - Education PC, Evelyn - Singing Barney Soft toy, Joy - 2 storybooks and of cos angbao from aunties & uncles. She opened them all and play with them daily. Sad to say her happiness is my sorrow becos i hav to clean up her mess after that. Paint on the floor, bits of paper, sticky dough etc... haiz.. i have a big belly now, tired standing and squating down leh... :)

Jolie's 4th Birthday at Calvary Baptist Church

2008-08-04T23:39:00.003+08:00

Finally is Jolie 4th birthday. she has been counting down to this day. Without any disappointment, she had her Barney Theme Birthday. Even her requirement for cake was fulfiled - Barney with fresh strawberry.

She was very excited on that day. we told her that she will proceed to school first and we will bring the cake and goodies bag there at the time that her teacher had allocated. It was on the day whereby all the students had to take class photo thus, all the teachers were busy. Luckily, Ms ling allow us to continue with the celebration.

Hainanese Clan Gathering @ Huiz Hse

2008-07-27T23:30:00.002+08:00

OMG, i forgot to post this yesterday. It was another gathering for a group of Hainanese who are in the SG Brides forum. Glad that Huiz open up her house again to host us.

Jovan @ 30 weeks

2008-07-27T01:19:00.002+08:00

Today is Jovan 30th week check-up. Humpf.. his growth is slow. He's weighing 1.4kg now and estimated birth weigh will be 2.8kg which is 0.1kg lesser than the result I had at 28th week. Dr Chen did not sound alarm but rather ask me if I did take vitamins as compared to Jolie, where her birth weight was 3.1kg, Jovan is consider much smaller. I told I eat daily and food intake is the same, probably is becos I'm working now thus my body needs more energy as compared to last preg where i was like a Tai tai at home. He kinda agree and ask me to take my vitamins daily and eat so long i feel hungry.

I heard that this year at the NDP speech, we may expect a revised baby bonus which should be applicable to baby born from 1 Aug 2008. Wow!! i hope it is true so Jovan and Jolie can benefit from the scheme. I'm hoping to have more cash bonus or less restricted rules for using CDA account. Next is I wish they can let daddy have paternity leave for at least 7 working days. 3 days are not enough. usual we spend 2 days in Hospital and discharge on the 3rd day. we need our hubby to be at home for another few days just to balance our emotions and help us look after baby. Even when our confinement may be done by mothers, there are some little things that we only can depend on hubby to help. Our movements are not that agile with the wound.. I shall wait for the speech to come.. hehhe..

Robert Half Paintball @ OCC

2008-07-27T00:50:00.002+08:00

It was our company 3rd quarter outing. This time i suggested paintball game and Tim agreed. The game is available at Orchid Country Club. At first, Ryan was worried about the rain and i told him, "It will not rain!" True enough, there was a drizzle during early part of the day and it ended before we start our game. They were 4 teams and we play the league method to decide a winning team.

Before we start, the game master gave a serious briefing. He was very stern that some of them were pissed off by them. But we agreed after the game that his seriousness is a must. The paintball, although small and look harmless, it can cause bruise and even death. Some of them whose were hit by the paintball, their skin were swollen and bruise for days. Anyone playing this game must be extra careful..

Dinner @ Magma German Wine Bistro

2008-07-27T00:18:00.002+08:00

It has been a long time that we went out with Toon's friends. Roland managed to get us gather at Magma 2 Saturday back. The ambience is pretty nice and it make you feel cosy and comfortable. As you know German cuisine is about Pork Knuckle thus each couple order one to try except for us. I love pork leg but not when it is fried. I had lamb instead and it is quite good. People who can't take the lamb smell, please do not order this. I worry you can't take it. It is actaully a place that sell German wines. I guess to attract people, they open up an area to serve food.

Dolin Birthday Celebration

2008-07-27T00:12:00.002+08:00

it was Dolin, my friend's birthday party on 11 july. She invited us to her house for BBQ. Her house is big, there's garage as well as back yard. At first I was headache about what to buy for her and i suddenly that she loves Hello Kitty. not wanting to get her what she already had, i called her to ask. Her mom is buying her a desktop pc thus I bought her a HK Keyboard, Speakers and Optical Mouse. They look so cute. I told her if she can get a HK Monitor, it would be perfect.. hahaha...

BEWARE : White Honda Civic w/ Red H logo, Yellow background Number Plate – Parking @ Market Street Carpark

2008-07-25T10:58:00.001+08:00

I was so pissed off in the morning. It happened all at my season parking carpark. As usual, after dropping Toon, I drove to the carpark. When I was at 4th level, I stopped to allow a BMW to park his car and moved up to level 5. With a quick glance, I saw that there were only 3 lots left thus, without even slowing or pausing my car, I steadily about to drive up to level 6. Suddenly, a WHITE HONDA CIVIC simply overtook me on my right with a zoom. We are not supposed to overtake in carpark especially when it is a 2-way 1 lane traffic. Driving courtesy is that we will overtake when the car in front stop to park. I was caught by surprise and a lady who happened to see that gave a shocking look too. That White Honda Civic almost bang into my car. Lucky I jammed brake. I tried to honk him but damn.. my honk din sound.
When I reach level 6, it was empty. The driver did not park but drove up to next level.. I guess he worried that I will confront him. Well, he was right. If he parked beside me, I’m sure to take picture of his car and post it here. I wonder how he passed his license. This driver is endangering human life and license should be taken off immediately. If I’m not wrong, he’s a regular at the carpark thus I’m sure to see him again. Drivers parking at Market Street Carpark should beware of this car.

So what’s the big deal if you are driving sport version of HONDA CIVIC.. I'm driving a RSZ too. so does it mean, i should swirl, voom on the road recklessly.. With such lousy driving ethic, he will soon end up in car accident but please.. let him bang into objects and not human being. We do not need to suffer from his selfishness.

New ERP Gantries, Ren Ci Monk being sued.....

2008-07-16T15:25:00.002+08:00

Quite a few new things happened this 2 weeks. First it was the opening of 5 new ERP gantries then Ren Ci Monk being sued for misappropriate of funds and lastly, openings of new MRT stations along the Downtown Lines.

The starting of ERP gantry has actually cause an impact on Toon's pocket. We drive to work daily via Nicoll Highway. We used to pay only S$2 in the morning to enter CBD, now we have to pay S$2.50 for CBD and S$2 when we go home, passing through One Fullerton. Has it ease the traffic conditions? I seriously don think so! Toontoon tried 2 other routes home which does not need to pay ERP and he give up. I told him about the time wasted and petrol consumed through all the detours, it does not make sense as either way we still spend S$2 more on our way home. I rather pay the ERP unwilling and get home within 20mins. If I think this way, other motorists will think the same too. that's why i said, the ERP is just craps about easing traffic. Either drop the car take puble transports if not, stop grumbling and pay "Everyday Rob People". :)

With the new MRT stations opening, our train lines can fight with London Tube and Japan. Multi-color lines... I guess soon we will be like people in UK starting to take train to everywhere since each station is so near. I remember it only took me 10-15mins to walk from 1 station to another in London. However, we singaporean are pretty pamper with cars. It won't be easy for us to change suddenly. Can you imagine I have been driving for past 4 years that I'm so reluctant to agree with Toontoon to park our car at a MRT station and take train to work. What if it is a raining day? I will be wet, sticky and having to squeeze myself with other people in the train.. OMG.. Lucky, Toontoon said that he will consider this option only after i give birth.. Phew!
Nobody will bother to give up seat to me, the preg lady..

Oh the Ren Ci Monk is be being.. well nothing too surprise after NKF fraud case was disclosed. All I can say is that Monk studied buddhism so much, he is after all a human. It is all about integrity and ability to resist temptation towards money. Even Pastor, Priest/Father, they can walk on the wrong step too. So far, the only religion leader that I have not heard of getting into fraud case is Islamic, Skih, Hindus.. I'm sure there will be a demand for Forensic Auditor in Singapore.. haha.. call Robert Half then, they are expert in filling finance/accounting professional in organisations.. I guess with Renci case, people will be extremely disappointed with MingYi Fa-Shi. I heard he is a very well-respected monk locally and in APAC.. now i see who will respect him. Think, academic is not important in a person but rather moral, personality and integrity. I hope Jolie and Jovan will have good character when they grow up.

Baby Jovan is reaching 29th week

2008-07-16T15:09:00.002+08:00

Just went for my 28th week check-up last Saturday. haha.. i'm so happy as i only put on 7kg, average 1kg per month. Jovan is very active, moves alot and enjoys pounding. He weighs 1.1kg now and estimated to be 2.9kg at birth. Heng... good size for natural birth.

The funny part that happened during my check-up was that my Gynae was testing if i remember the normal range of baby's heartbeat, growth rate etc. I gave him a blur look and replied, "Dr Chen, i don know. I only care about your final conclusion if baby is normal, good or healthy." He laughed. I told him, i'm not like those kan chong mom-to-be that will take note of everything and find out details as knowing too much can scare ourselves some times. So long he said both mom n baby are fine, i'm alright. Relax is the key to enjoyable motherhood. I like my gynae, he's patient, detailed and calm. Most importantly, my first delivery by him was a easy, not so painful one. The whole process did not freak me out and I did not even take any painkiller after that.

Having in my 3rd trimester, the worst thing i have to suffer is the expansion of my tummy. the skin stretch so much that it get dry easily and start to itch. if I start to stratch, i can't stop. OMG!!! you be saying it will cause stretchmarks right.. well i cut short all my nails just to ensure i don tear my skin. I apply tummy oil at least 3x daily to stop the itch.. my hubby laughs while Jolie was curious about breastmilk..

I'm hoping for D-Day to come soon so i can rest at home.. another 2 months..

Keevan Full Month Party

2008-07-06T20:55:00.003+08:00

Today is Keevan, my little nephew's full month. It was held at Pin Si Restaurant. Same as usual he slept like a log throughout the party only woke up for milk..

Very soon it will be my Jovan's full month party. I have idea on what to do but will need to find out more.. hehhe.. shhhh a secret...

Getting Relieved..

2008-07-05T23:54:00.002+08:00

SO Happy !!
We see sign of recovery on Jolie's condition. THere's a slight laugh line on her left cheek.. yippiee..Hope by coming thurs, she will be fine...

THanks everyone for your well wishes and keeping Jolie in their prayer..

2008-07-03T19:57:00.004+08:00

Today, we brought Jolie to KKH to see a Neurologist. Doc checked her reflex on hands and legs, balancing and eyes movement. She passed all including the blood test. She was given steriod for 15 days at a reducing dosage and we have to see the Doc next Thurs again. I asked the Doc about brain scan and she said it will only be recommended if she don respond to medication after 2weeks. With her explanation, i wish Jolie will never have to go thru brain scan as that mean is serious. The bill come up to be S$195 and S$160 is consultation fee.. so expensive !! but what to do.. Till now I still do not know the actual cause all the 3 Docs only say it is nerves inflammatory. She is refrain from school till next doc's review so as not to catch other sickness.. haiz..
All i pray now is she recover at the next visit.. Seeing her cry while taking blood test pain me.. Lucky there is animal rides beside the clinic that we are able to cheer her up fast.

Back to School

2008-06-29T01:21:00.002+08:00

i'm supposed to post this way before but i did have the time. shocking news came and next i know i'm missing sleep to tend Jolie..

Thinking back i don wanna miss out something happy.. here is it.. Jolie's 1st day at Calvary Baptist Kindergarten. She has waited for months to realise her dream to go back..

Bell's Palsy - What is it ???

2008-06-25T11:48:00.000+08:00

Bell’s Palsy, this is a unfamiliar medical term to me. Most unlucky part is, Jolie is diagnosed with this. It is a kind of nervous system inflammation on the facial nerves. The affected area will be numb and give no movement. My poor girl looks like baddie now with her mouth slanted to 1 side when she talks or laugh. Now I’m stress and tired. Stress because the recovery takes from 1 week to few months. Nobody can guarantee full recovery even when she follows treatment strictly. Tired because I have to ensure that her left eye closes whenever she sleeps so that it will not be hurt by foreign object. I check on her every 1-2hrs last night and have to do it at least for a week. I pray that she will eat her medicine timely and recover fully in a week if not I may have to bring her to see Neurology. She’s such a smart, lovely gal I’m sure God will bless her well-being. I just need to have faith in HIM. Amen

My Thoughts

2008-06-23T00:05:00.003+08:00

Suddenly I just feel like writing more.. soon Jovan will arrive and I wonder if I can manage and provide for 2 kids. With Jolie having on 3hrs class daily, I feel she will learn less things compared to when she's at MMI but what can I do? Mother-in-law is no longer young and active to help me bring her to enrichment class that I wish to put her into. I'm not saying extra class daily, just twice per week. Thot of finding nearby school but still it will be a problem. Then with Jovan, how she is going to manage??? Did i make a wrong decision to change her back to CBK? She 's a fast learner, cooping her at home, i feel is a waste of time. Get a maid?? It is not really my preferred choice due to costs, privacy and unforeseen issues.
Mother in law's maid is already an issue. she's so slow and dishonest. I dare not let Jovan be taken care by her. not that she's not good with kid but just a worry.. I told MIL that never let her be alone with Jovan at home for long hours cos she won't know what happen. MIL's eye sight also become that sometime milk bottle did not wash clean.. No trying to penalise her cos she's a great MIL. just concern.
How I wish I can be a stay home mom and work on freelance. that way i can take care of them most of the time and bring Jolie to extra classes myself. WHen will my wish be realise? I think I should ask my Hubby when he can approve my long term leave.. hahhaaaa..

Outing to Safra TPY Kid Adventure

2008-06-22T23:52:00.002+08:00

This morning was supposed to go swimming at Sembawang Country Club but the weather did not give us face so ended up i suggested that all the kids shall go Safra TPY Kid adventure to have indoor fun. we had 5 kids from 3 families and gosh the place had renovated that parents are now kept away from the fun maze.

No doubt it was so crowded with kids and parents, our 5 little rascals weren't affected at all. they were running, climbing, having so much fun.

Jolie was not really at her usual self as her left eye is giving her problem. she kept complaining that it was painful and I can't find what wrong with it. I dripped some eye drops into it and keep monitoring her. Then my aunts and myself all realise that her mouth is slanted to right side. it seems like the muscle on the left is loose. I asked her if she feel any pain on her left cheek but she replied no etc. Guess I have to monitor till tomorrow.

Finally is JOlie's first day back to Calvery Baptist kindergarten. I hope she will enjoy herself in learning, make new friends and feel sense of belonging. altho she is a active, adorable gal, she is very timid and shy. So hard to open her up. Even to us parents, she sometimes will hide her feelings that we have to go one big round to find out. Now I have to think about enrichment class for her.. headache man..

Jolie's last day @ MMI Raffles Place

2008-06-14T13:17:00.002+08:00

It was Jolie's last day at her current school. She will be going back to her previous school - Calvary Baptist Kindergarten. It was Parents Day celebration too. Many parents were at the school. We had the children to perform for us and someone from MCYS to host the party. although I was not sure about what she was talking the whole nite, i enjoyed myself very much. Jolie had a great time with her friends too.

more pictures can be found at her gallery on the right link...

My Nephew - Baby Keevan

2008-06-12T22:43:00.003+08:00

Finally, my little nephew is born. I was telling Toon that I felt more excited than my sis. No mood to work just wanna get out and go hospital to see him.

Although he is born not more than a day, he was very awake and attentive. His eyes would roll when the TV's lights flashed. So adorable. However, his mom was not that good. She had to go thru long hours of labour pain before she got epidural. Her hubby complained that it was worst than him working whole day. He felt so shack.

Weighing 3.16kg, Keevan is a healthy boy... here he is...

Barney's Lets imagine it Live

2008-06-06T13:18:00.003+08:00

Last night was the first show of Barney & Friends performance in Singapore. Knowing that Jolie likes Barney alot, I bought 3 tickets for us to go. Jolie was very excited about it that she was all dressed-up when we picked her up.

The show was performed at Suntec Convention Hall. You will be amazed by the crowd when you reached Suntec. We could see parents and kids walking towards the convention hall from all the corners. It was like a meeting place for the kids. Well I guess so. Which kid don like Barney?? He made some of the children song famous such as Mr Sun and the ending song - I love you, you love me...

We gotten to our seats and waited for the show to start. There were many interaction between the kids and performers. You could see most of the kids standing along the aisle - singing and dancing. Even Toon and I were enjoying the show. Overall, the sow was fantastic except for the part that the screen on the stage was slightly small for audience sitting at the back. If it could enlarge a bit more, it would be great.

We are looking forward to other performances such as HI-5 which is Jolie's favorite as well. Till it comes, she shall watch from the DVD then.. hehe

Dinner @ Oomphatico

2008-05-31T13:24:00.004+08:00

I'm back to Oomphatico for meals. this time I brought my bridal clients along - Mabel & James. This couple is young and jovial. Mabel very helpful. Whenever i need ideas for staff welfare, I will ask her. She bought Jolie a book "The Nutcracker" and also 25pcs of Tiny Bears for her to give her friends at her school as farewell gift.

Apart from me, they had a hard time deciding what to order as the menu is pretty unique. As per James, the restuarant has no theme, no rule so it create a fresh feeling to diners. I'm glad that they have a short performance segment at night too. All of us enjoy very much that we did not realise it was 10pm by then.

Szechuan Earthquake / MediaCorp Charity Show

2008-05-26T22:40:00.003+08:00

Last nite MediaCorp did a charity show for the people suffering in Szechuan. Due to earthquake on 12 May, millons have died and thousand have suffered post effect. Especially the kids. They are trumatised.

I'm not a regular news follower, with the program, I got to know more about the hazard. Those people really gone through too much. 所谓的叫天不应，叫天不灵。我不禁落泪了。

One of the segment was poem recite.. I could not control but feel for the mothers who lost their kids. I happened to see the poem printed on the papers and it goes like this:

孩子，快抓紧妈妈的手

孩子，快抓紧妈妈的手
去天堂的路太黑了
妈妈怕你碰到头
快抓紧妈妈的手
让妈妈陪你走
妈妈怕天堂的路太黑
我看不见你的手
自从倒塌的墙把阳光夺走
我再也阿看不见你柔情的睦
孩子，你走吧
前面的路再也没有忧愁
没有读不完的课本
和爸爸的拳头
你要记住，
我和爸爸的模样
来生还要一起走

妈妈别担忧
天堂的路有些挤
有很多同学朋友
我们说不哭
哪一个的妈妈都是我们的妈妈
哪一个孩子都是妈妈的孩子
没有我的日子
你要把爱给活的孩子吧
妈妈你别哭
泪光照亮不了我们的路
让我们自己慢慢走
妈妈，我会记住你和爸爸的模样
记住我们的约定
来生我们一起走

So saddening right.. A poem to the surviving moms from children who were killed by the disaster telling their parents to let go and shower their love to surviving kids..
haiz......

Cayley & Austin 1st Birthday

2008-05-25T20:16:00.009+08:00

Today we went to Cayley & Austin's first birthday @ The Pines. I remembered seeing them when they just born. Tiny little ones, so adorable. Now they are already 1yr old - Active and playful.
The theme was Mickey. Most of us dress up according to the theme if not white, red or black. The party was well-planned. The kids got to play with the indoor bouncy castle while the adults enjoyed the food.
When I thought this was it, Mickey Mouse appeared. All the kids including adults were carzy over him. All started busy taking pictures. Kids queued up for their turns.
Afterwhich was the cake-cutting ceremony. We enjoyed the pary very much. Jolie played crazily. Maybe I should consider holding such party for Jolie. She wants Strawberry Shortcake theme. I hope i can fulfil her dream.

Baby Jovan - 19wks 8 days

2008-05-22T23:36:00.004+08:00

I had my detail scan and glucose test on Tues. This is the test that I dislike. Why? I had to fast and drink a super sweet syrup for my breakfast. Yuck!! The last time when I had Jolie, I puke out all the syrup after 20mins when I'm suppose to have it digest in my body for 1hr before doing my test. So did I puke this time?? hehe NO. But becos of the hunger, I suffer dizzy spells. Thru-out my pregnancy, this period of time is the worst. I rather miss something else than not having food to eat.
Anyway after the blood test, we proceed to do detail scan. Jovan weighs about 330gm. He's growing well. Heart beat is fine too. Thank God :)
Baby no problem but mother has a little issue. My blood test show that i'm 1-2points below acceptable range of Red Blood Count. Blood pressure slightly at lower side too. Weird ;) I guess I did not have enough rest. My MIL know about the result so she start to broth Liver soup for me.. hehe..
I did not put up any picture cos they are not clear. Now I can relax and wait for later date to do my CTG..
{i guess Jovan knows i'm talking abt him now that he's kicking me :)]

All the "hassles", just to Swim !!

2008-05-18T19:05:00.003+08:00

It is a hot day today that i suggested to go for a swim. We changed into our swimsuits happily and left home bringing only $16 without our mobiles... After walking and crossing the overhead bridge with grumbling, we found out that the wading pool is closed for maintenance. .

DAMN!! Sis was grumbling. So what did we do next??

I suggested to go to the pool at Yishun Safra. Before we started on our journey, I repeatedly ask my sis if we need to go home to get the member card. We walked 10mins under hot sun. Jolie perspired so much that she asked Ah Mai for face towel.

Finally we reached and................... Membership Card is required for weekend and payment has to be made via cashcard. We were liked.. OMG.. now how??? We approached a man for help. He was a super good man. When he realised that his cashcard has no more value, he walked to the top up machine at carpark to top up his card. We apreciate his kindness so much that I gave him $10 to keep the change for the tickets. He insisted returning us the change of S$0.40 end up he gave us $0.50 back. Where to find such a gentleman! Such man in Singapore is coming to extinction. Thanks to him that we all could enjoy ourselves.

Oomphatico @ Tanglin Mall

2008-05-18T14:24:00.003+08:00

Last Wed was Stephanie's birthday. Carol suggested that we don't buy present for birthday person anymore but rather treat the person to good lunch. We all agreed. We went to Oomphatico @ Tanglin Mall. It was my first time at that place. The entrance gives a grand, country feel. Very nice place with nice food too. The decor gives a soothing feeling. It does not look like restaurant at all. I can't make out what exactly the restuarant theme is.

The Potato Salad is delicious. I had 3 servings. A must to order. I had Country Club Sandwich - Avacado, Egg, Chicken and Veg.. marvellous but the portion was too big for me to finish all. They have unique names for all the dishes so first-timer will have to take awhile to look throught their menu before ordering.

Halfway through our meals, there was a short entertainment too. The restaurant manager, french lady together with the staff started to sing and dance to a country song. it was a good entertainment.

NTUC May Family Day

2008-05-11T17:37:00.008+08:00

This morning we woke up early to go Family Day @ Downtown East. Toon's company has union so all staff are given 1 ticket. Many of them did not want to go so he ended up having 7 tickets. Each ticket has 4 game coupons thus we had 28 coupons. The queue for all the game booths were very long that soon I started to feel dizzy. Breathless, blur vision that I had to find a spot to sit down and rest.
Jolie began to feel hungry so we went to grab lunch. With the no. of coupons we had, our table was full of free food and drinks. After, Jolie went for second round at the Bouncing Castle. By the time Jolie surrendered, we still had about 10 coupons left. I gave them to 2 kids at the carpark. They were happy as they did not know there was a carnival. Jolie knocked out in the car within 2mins.. haha fast right....

Mom 48th Birthday

2008-05-10T16:16:00.006+08:00

It was my mom birthday yesterday. YEah she's 48 this year. Young mother, Young Ah Mai right... We brought her out for a crab dinner and bought her a cake. Toon could not make it as he had a client entertainment.

Dinner @ Kyu Gaku

2008-05-08T23:46:00.003+08:00

We had our dinner at Kyu Gaku just now. I had been counting down my time to off work. The branch’s decor at UE Square is unique and very Japanese. The entrance flooring has in-built garden. Jolie was curious yet slightly scare to walk on it. She made a detour instead.

Jolie was very excited with the idea of cooking her own food. She was the chef tonight. Most of the food was cooked by her. Both Toontoon and I just need to ensure she didn’t burn herself. Look at the food we ordered. At first I was thinking that it wont be enough. However, I was wrong. By the time we had our dessert, I was already full to the rim. Toon being a big eater was full as well. Only our little “Rubber Stomach” still ask for milk during our journey home. Jolie can really eat.. J

Jolie's Classmate's Birthday - 3 May 08

2008-05-05T00:28:00.004+08:00

It was Jolie's classmate's birthday last Saturday. His name is Matthew. I guess most Cauasians will hold their kids parties at venues specially for kids. This includes Matthew's parents. His party was held at Gymboree, Harborfront. The party started at 2pm but we were late due to prior engagement in our friend's wedding. Jolie missed the games segment. By the time we reached, they were starting to have their snack from MacDonald..

Not many of the other classmates were there. There were Ethan, Saraphina, Alphina, Asritha & her sister while the rest were Matthew's friends. Nevertheless, Jolie enjoyed very much. They had a free play moment at the play gym. You could see that Jolie is not afraid of the facilities. she simply climbed up and down, tried out everything she liked.

Soon the 2 hrs party was over. We were all tired with the hectic schedule since morning that we went home straight and fell asleep till 8pm when my parents, sis and Ivan came over. What can we do when they are here??? None other.... MAHJONG TIME !!! I lost $29 on May Day so its time for me to recover.. Anyway I only won $1.80 after the 2hrs session.. sigh :(

Hot Weather is killing me!

2008-04-29T23:47:00.001+08:00

The weather for these few days is killing me. So hot!!!!!!!!! I’m perspiring like mad. With my pregnancy, my temperature shoots up too. I always complain that our office air-con is too cold but recently it seems to go haywire. Office is getting stuffy each day and the dirty air is affecting my nose allergy. This is not the worst for me. Due to hormonal change, whenever I perspire, my skin starts to itch. I have to control myself from scratching my skin.

I just had a cold shower, it’s so shiok but the moment I step out of the bathroom, I can feel the heat again. Even the air from the fan is warm. Luckily I’m not doing my confinement now if not I will go crazy.

Oh God, please cool the weather…

2008-04-24T15:08:00.000+08:00

I was very pissed off yesterday as the newly promoted DM sabotage me. How could she tell the other recruiters in the team that I support that I asked her for commission for a candidate that she placed? She was the one offering me the commission in the first place. I was merely asking her if I will get a cut since this placed candidate was pre-screened by me.

About 2 months ago, she asked me out for lunch and told me that she is too busy to clear those resumes that were sent to her job openings. She wants me to help her pre-screen them and fix interview for those that I feel are good. She also offered that should the candidate she interviewed was set-up and pre-screen by me, she will give me a 10% commission. In my industry, commission is a common thing. I did not reject nor agree. I only replied that I'm fine with that so long I have time to help her. Since then, I help her whenever possible. I did not mention about the commission but she will remind me to help her clear by telling me, remember you will get a cut.

Knowing her personality, appear generous but stingy within, I approach her to ask her if I will be given a cut for a candidate that she placed. She forwarded me a candidate's resume with seeing. I review and find that she is very suitable for one of her job so I recommend her greatly. At first she still wished to postpone the interview but I told her not to. In the end, the candidate was employed by her client in a week. Based on what she told me, I should get my rightful share, right? She appeared surprised and reluctantly said ok. I sense her unwillingness so I did not push any further but tell myself to forget it. At least I prove that she is whom I pre-determined. She came to me again to tell me the amount shortly and when I was about to leave office, she approached again to tell me for future, she will only give me commission for candidates that is direct referred by me. I was already disappointed with her character, so I can't be bother what she told me anymore and replied ok.

Then yesterday, she went to tell the team I ask her for commission and she will only give me this time and it will be the last time. It was like telling them to beware of me. I don deserved such accusation. I did not ask for it. It was offered to me. Maybe I'm wrong to kinda agree to her terms but end of the day I did not take anything from her.

If she likes to play politic so much then by all means, she can do her politicking. Just don do it to me. I talk to both my direct managers but kept secret about what happened. I just hope they will do something quick as per what they told me.

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Singapore Flyer

2008-04-22T23:35:00.003+08:00

Yesterday, Dolin asked me out for dinner. At first we decide to go Book Cafe as Jolie could be entertained by the children books & toys while we chat. However, it was booked for Alpha Course so I suggested Popeye @ Singapore Flyer.

This was Dolin, Jolie and my first trip to Singapore Flyer. We were surprised with the interior. Jolie likes the "forest" - landscape sponsor by Yakult. She was happily running around the forest and playing with the interactive screen.

Baby Jovan is coming

2008-04-20T23:47:00.010+08:00

Yesterday was my 16th week pregnancy checkup. Everybody was excited about the gender the forthcoming baby. The only couple who are cool are my hubby and myself.

Ivan & sis were happily saying that if our baby is boy, Toon would have to treat the morning dimsum which we had planned earlier. If not, we will go on dutch.. hheee..

Soon it was my turn for checkup. I had to do a blood test for all the diseases and down syndrome. Probably due to my past 3 weeks of cough and flu, I slim down and my blood flow is not that smooth that I had to exercise to allow my gynae to draw enough blood. Next was the scan for feotus growth. What a blessing that he was growing well despite the amount of medicine I took to cure my sickness. My gynae being playful, paused a few second before telling us the gender.. He went, "the baby's gender is........... boy". Toon was the best. He kept asking Dr Chen how he determine the gender when Dr Chen repeated many times to look at the screen where he had drawn a green line. I had to point on the screen to show him.

I told Jolie about her little brother coming, she is very excited and protective over him. We are glad that she is receptive.

Can you see what the Card write?

This is Baby Jovan in prayer position..

Marriage takes more than LOVE

2008-04-18T23:48:00.001+08:00

Last Sunday, I brought Jolie to Sunday school at Calvary Baptist Church. The sermon for that day was “Marriage takes more than Love”. I was quite excited to hear the preaching. The speaker is Anthony Yeo who is the Director for Care & Counselling Organisation.

He quoted 1 Cor 13 and Matt 9:4 in his message. He said that God has never mentioned about marriage love but rather Christ-Liked Love. Respect your wife, submit to your husband. When man grows up, he will leave his parents to form an union with his wife to become ONE.

Anthony pointed out that most couples focus too much on their children that they neglect each other needs. As time goes by, their children grow up and leave to form their own families, the couple become stranger as they don’t know each other personal needs anymore. This is not a good sign. Celebrate your wedding anniversary without your children because they are not there when both of you are married. Always have couple time to strengthen the bond. The couple should place their own family priority instead of parents and others. Your partner is the only one who will walk with you till your hair becomes white.

I find his message quite agreeable. My kids will leave me one day to form their own family. I would definitely not wish to interrupt their lifestyle and of course I will be left with ToonToon. If I don’t communicate with him now, I probably won’t have anything to talk with him in our old age. He agrees with me.

Marriage really takes more than love. Passion, understanding, respect, communication and many other things have to be added into a marriage. I’m learning to cultivate it and I hope you will too.

Sibu Island 22-23 Nov 2007

2008-04-14T00:39:00.004+08:00

Need help on Template

2008-04-13T02:49:00.001+08:00

Can Someone teach me how to widen the beige layout? it is too narrow.. Pls be specific in the steps.. Thanks alot..

Our New Website!

2008-04-10T14:20:00.003+08:00

Oh well some of you may think why I start another new website again when I already have to maintain 5 sites – 2 for myself, 2 for Jolie and 1 for my KYLN beaute. Yes no joke.. it is too tough to maintain 5 so now I will concentrate on this site for my family unless the stuff is too personal for family blog.

I’m trying to make my blog a better and I always fancy others who have links, special effect on their blog. If possible please advise how you all do that by leaving us a comment.