HaPPi MuMMi

Simple Express Dinner

2011-10-27T17:41:00.001+08:00

Happy Call - my latest cooking companion.

Where is my cape!?!

2011-10-27T15:32:00.001+08:00

Need to switch to Supermom mode!

Gwendal & Shyanne Birthday Party in 15 days - nothing is prepared!!!!

Need to order cake
Buy goodies and party packs
Their birthday clothes
Coordinate the snacks and magic show.
Air swimmers, not sure if it will arrive on time.

All I can say is ..... PANIC!!!!

Going shopping spree this weekend ;p

I missed my bus!

2011-10-25T08:35:00.001+08:00

Today, my turn to bring the girls to school. Joe does it for Monday, Wednesday and Friday. It is our way of sharing responsibilities.

I missed my bus to work. My daughters' small feet could not catch up with my quick giant steps. So, I chose to 'skip' to school with them.

The girls walked with extreme care today. I meant EXTREME. Shyanne was holding my hand real tight all the way while Gwendal held my hand whenever we were about to cross the road.

I shared with them what happened to Yue Yue and use it to teach them life lessons.

1. The right way of crossing the road
2. If you see someone in need, stop and asked an adult for help.

Not sure if my teaching method is right or wrong - guess this morning walk to school was evident that they understood the lesson.

Anyway, being someone who has always been early at work, I am surprising at peace inside. ;) perhaps it is the knowledge that my boss is not in town today. So 'the truth shall set you free'.

Now, as I am approaching my office (still on time for work- I am on a Express F1 bus) with about 50 emails in my inbox waiting for actions, I take comfort that they are safe and sound in the school premise and I look forward to seeing them this evening. ;)

My weekend

2011-10-24T17:30:00.000+08:00

With the passing on of 2yo Yue Yue and 6yo Charmanie (http://ourfeistyprincess.blogspot.com), I am feeling extremely vulnerable.

Life seems so fragile. I cried for complete strangers. Perhaps my tears are for the premature end to their lives? Or am I feeling theheartache and pain of their mothers?

For every excuse I give whenever I am too tired to read the bedtime story, there’s a mother out there wishing for another chance to just whisper “I Love You” to her baby.

For every time I wish I have more “me” time, there’s a mother praying for more time to be with her baby.

Perhaps, is just me being emotional.

This weekend, Gwendal and Shyanne seems more adorable thanever. I love the smell of their strawberry scented hair. Kissing them multipletimes in their waking and sleeping hours, laid my ears on their chests andlistened to their heartbeat - I just cannot get enough of them.

Last night, I was very tired from the “weekend activities”; I chose to read a 6-lines bedtime story. Gwendal kissed me and said “Thank You Mummy”. It brought tears to my eyes.

This weekend news may have shaken my optimism a little but I have learnt to appreciate my time with my daughters – The day will come, it will be their time to soar and my time to let go – till then, I am grateful forevery hugs and kisses, grateful for every “I love you”, (not so) grateful forevery bicker, grateful whenever they need me.

Perhaps, it is just me trying to find a silver lining.

CHICKEN ALA CARTE

2009-04-30T20:43:00.001+08:00

Joe was "complaining about Chicken overdose - We had Steamed Chicken on Tuesday, Teriyaki Chicken on Wednesday and Fried Chicken today...

I cried and scolded Joe as I watched this video - Tell myself "I must NEVER complain about how much I have."

This video reminds me of the scene from The Pursuit of Happyness whereby Will Smith and his son were homeless, they were late for the shelter Q and had to sleep in the subway toilet! I can never bring myself to watch the movie again...

Likewise, I don't think I can bring myself to watch this video again - especially when the kids were all excited about the leftover chickens...

Wish I can do something but the best thing I can do now is to educate my daughters - expanding their world beyond their comfort zone, teaching tolerance for people who are different, instilling the right values and passion for life...

Gwendal's Mini Concert

2009-04-30T10:17:00.000+08:00

Heidi Klum on Ellen DeGeneres (Chicken Dance)

2009-04-28T13:28:00.001+08:00

I love to do the chicken dance with Gwendal!!!

Gwendal's Bolster Alphabet Series

2009-04-23T12:08:00.000+08:00

This is purely Gwendal's imagination and creative at work.

Of course there are some missing letters... hopefully, she will find the "solutions" to complete the whole whole series of "Bolster Alphabet" :P

No help from me or Shyanne was rendered!

In a super Ah Lian's Mood...

2009-04-22T21:53:00.001+08:00

My favourite Hokkien song - 攏是為著你啦

Hokkien songs

2009-04-22T21:18:00.003+08:00

I am not a Hokkien... but I married a Hokkien "Banana-Beng" (someone who speaks English and Hokkien very well) plus my exposure to Broadway Beng 3 last year, elevated my interest in Hokkien Songs. So does that make me a "Ah Lian"?

Anyway, my SIL was so nice to buy me a Hokkien Songs CD for me. I believe my Hokkien will improve in no time... Wahahaha... So look out for me in the next "Getai"!! Wahahaha Just Kidding lah!

I hope the Broadway Beng Movie will come to pass! :)

Tonite's Dinner

2009-04-21T21:58:00.001+08:00

Fried Rice

Ice Blended Watermelon

Gwendal's first take home project

2009-04-20T15:06:00.004+08:00

Susan Boyle on Britains Got Talent 2009!!

2009-04-17T10:35:00.002+08:00

Incredible Voice! Susan Boyle shocked judges, including Simon Cowell, with her voice on Britain's Got Talent. Another Paul Potts' phenomena?

TAKEN

2009-04-15T10:09:00.006+08:00

Went for the gala premiere of TAKEN @ the CATHAY yesterday...

I wasn't very hopefully about the event as we had a really bad start.

First, we could not find the Class 95 Counter to collect our tix tho we were there at the stipulated time. They made Joe ran up and down from the fifth floor to the first floor to the fifth floor again and then finally got the tix at the sixth floor.

The movie was supposed to start at 7.30 sharp but the host only started introducing His Excellency Pierre Buhler, Ambassador of France to Singapore and Pierre Morel, the director at 7.50pm. The movie finally started after 2 speeches...

I am surprise I enjoyed the show. I vaguely remember Liam Neeson in LOVE ACTUALLY and the recent news of his wife's demise. This show just put him on my "ACTOR TO WATCH" radar.

He plays a former government operative whose daughter was taken by an organisation which kidnapped gals, drugged them and sold them as prostitutes. Unlike many action-packed movies, the way the story unfolds is very believable. From the "Special Investigative Skills" to his absolute love for his daughter - Nothing can stop him from saving his daughter, that include jumping off bridge, shooting a high ranking officer's wife...

Brings me back to when I was only 19, bag-packing alone in Europe for 6 months. I remember men were approaching me when I was in Holland and Paris but I "shoo-ed" them away by pretending I didn't understand English. But for the rest of the countries I visited, people generally left me alone. Thank God I was not TAKEN!

But will I ever let Gwendal and Shyanne experience the same experience as I did? Hmm... I wonder what's the impact of this movie on Joe...

Maybe it was the sound effects that caused my heart to race and hands to shiver? Perhaps it was the huge full screen that brought every details to life? I am not sure but this movie is worth watching on the big screen.

Spa Delights @ True Spa

2009-04-13T11:07:00.000+08:00

Waiting Room...

The Couple Room

Our Shoes

Hydrobath...

Massage...

My handy helper

2009-04-08T00:16:00.000+08:00

Gwendal helping me - SQUEEZING ORANGE JUICE

Total: 11 Oranges = 1 L of juice

Tis the season of "gifting"...

2009-04-06T00:24:00.000+08:00

Hmm.. it is not Christmas but Gwendal has a bagful of gifts over the weekend...

2 Puzzles from Aunt Grace
2 PJs from Ah Ma
1 Taiwan mouse from Aunt Belinda

... Sure is a fruitful weekend for Gwendal! :)

Shyanne Lifts!!!

2009-04-02T21:21:00.001+08:00

Tonite's Dinner

2009-04-02T21:18:00.001+08:00

Fish Fillet with Prawn & Chilli Butter...

Not too bad for the first attempt lah! ;P

Nite Out @ Muddy Murphy's Irish Pub

2009-03-31T21:26:00.000+08:00

Tonite's Dinner

2009-03-25T15:44:00.001+08:00

ABC Soup
Steamed egg with minced pork

PLUS Mega Vitamin C Tonic (my very first attempt) ;P

Communication breakdown?

2009-03-25T14:39:00.003+08:00

I love Gwen & Shyanne - I tell them “I love you” on a daily basis, I hug and kiss them so many times in the day till I lost count. I play the hug and kiss game with them in order to give them more affection than I already have... and knowing that they know I love them gives me great joy.

Anyway, I have heard of this term "parent and child communication breakdown" in the media and seminars so many times - I begin to wonder why did all the loving go to? How did the parents and child relation become so sour? I am sure most parents would love their children as much as I love both my gals. So where is the love?

Gwen started school and began to interact with kids her age since January. Recently, I caught myself missing her innocence - when Joe and I were the only "super-heroes" in her life... ok ok.. Ah ma, Ah gong, aunties, uncles and cousins included...

Every night (just before bedtime), I would just spend some time listening to her "adventures" of the day - her play time with her classmates and what her teachers taught her... there's less of mummy and daddy in the conversation but more of Shi lao si (her mandarin teacher), Zachariah, Wei An, Chu En, Jordon, teacher Grace... the list goes on and on and on... and the list will only continue to increase...

Ah WAIT!!!!! There’s "competition" for Gwendal's attention!!!!!

NOW, I am feeling the possibilities of us drifting apart if I am not careful.

I make an effort to listen to her whenever she talks (even in the midst of Shyanne's crying) - letting her know that I am listening (even if I don’t have “solutions” to her “problems”) instead of preaching and telling her what to do.

Just a few weeks ago, Joe secretly gave Gwendal a chocolate and told her not to tell me. She came to me and told me immediately. No Secrets! I was glad she did as that gave me an opportunity to tell her that she can come and talk to me about anything…

Some may think I am thinking too much and I am trying too hard; After all, Gwendal is barely 3.5yo.

At the end of the day, I don’t want to wait till it is too late especially when kids this days are expose to much more media influence and peer pressure than during my time - Prevention is definitely better than cure…

New Toy

2009-03-24T14:24:00.002+08:00

Gwendal's new toy - A Cottage

Gwendal helping with the assembly

Gwendal exploring her new cottage

Putting her Mac cooking equipments into her cottage...

Cooking in her house...

Tonite's Dinner

2009-03-23T17:52:00.000+08:00

Steamed Sea bass

Tomatoes Prawns

Stir-Fried Mushrooms

I know the pics does not look too good but all the food is edible lah... Must take time to do a little photo editing... sigh!

Lunch @ T.G.I. Fridays (JB)

2009-03-23T15:56:00.000+08:00

Mushroom soup

Sirlion Steak

Ribeye Steak

Sunday...

2009-03-22T22:44:00.000+08:00

HaPPi Birthday to JOE...

A mini lunch celebration @ Dian Xiao Er (VivoCity)

Saturday...

2009-03-21T13:14:00.004+08:00

Carting @ WEST COAST PARK...

While Shyanne played with her chick puppet book...

We had a go at CARTING... Zoom... ZOOM.... ZOOM

Pasta making & dinner at LES & LISA's Home

Kids in the playroom...

Men having fun with flour... Pasta making from scratch...

Tonite's Dinner

2009-03-20T18:04:00.000+08:00

Peanut Congee

Shyanne turns!!!!

2009-03-19T15:36:00.000+08:00

Tonite's Dinner

2009-03-17T14:42:00.002+08:00

Steamed Red Snapper
Stir-fried long beans

... feel like having porridge today - just thinking about it warms my heart...

MiL 78th Birthday (14 Mar 09) @ Pine Court

2009-03-17T14:25:00.005+08:00

Updates

2009-03-17T12:12:00.003+08:00

WoW! I am so amazed at my both my daughters' progress...

********************

Gwendal (3yrs 4mths) is fully potty trained since Feb - day and night. No more diapers!!!! Yahoo.....

She loves going to school - Her current bedtime routine involves reading her ABC book and reciting a few mandarin nursery rhythms...

She has added PURPLE to her favourite color list

********************

Shyanne (4mths) has sleeping thru' for about a month or more already. Her last feed at 10.30pm and she'll wake up between 6-7am...

Still on breast milk - Have been trying to introduce formula milk especially over the weekend so that my MIL and SILs can help feed her as well.

What to do over this weekend?

2009-03-13T15:32:00.002+08:00

Tonite's Dinner

2009-03-13T14:44:00.001+08:00

Steamed Chicken with Ginger
Beansprouts with Salted Fish

... Still think of the 3rd dish ...

Tonite's Dinner

2009-03-12T16:26:00.004+08:00

Steamed Sea Bass
Stir-fried White Oyster Mushroom & Emperor Shiitake Mushroom
(Mushroom from MycoFarm)
Omelet with Chinese Wine Sausage

Family Time

2009-03-12T14:42:00.001+08:00

After the first 2 weeks of "Slapping" around, Gwendal has accepted Shaynne and understand her role as an elder sister, that's why she is pretty protective over Shyanne right now - She would kiss Shyanne, hug Shyanne and even rock Shyanne's chair whenever Shyanne cries. I am pretty happy with the progress right now...

Anyway, since we had our new "insert" SHYANNE, I have been trying to slot in special days and events just for Gwendal - after all she used to be our only child and had our full attention.

Certain Saturdays, we'll just leave Shyanne at my in laws for a while and bring Gwendal out for a walk.

We went West Coast for Mac Breakfast and cycling on Saturday.

We had our first movie night last Sunday - We drew the curtain, switch on the A/C, watched Bolt and ate butter popcorn in our cosy living room. She totally enjoyed it cos yesterday, she asked if we are going to watched another movie.

So what's next? She is going for her first kid's run in May and I hope we'll be able jog together at least once a week to "train" her for that event (only 700m ;P )

HaPPi 4th Month to Shyanne

2009-03-12T13:01:00.002+08:00

Weight: 6.7kg
Height: 63cm

She did not even blink an eye during her Jab... "Thick Skinned" like her sister... Wahahaha

My new toy...

2009-03-11T14:10:00.003+08:00

Been thinking of getting rid of my LG Viewty due to the poor photo quality.

If anyone even notice, I have not been posting up photos for the longest time... I have been feeling guilty cos I have not taken alot of Shyanne's photo. Bad MuMMi... Bad Bad MuMMi...

Then Joe did the sweetest thing - He surprised with a Sony Ericsson 8.1-megapixel C905 Cyber-shot! GOSH!!!!

He released the TRIGGER MONSTER in me... I am going to be TriGGer HaPPi from today on... Wahahaha...

The real test for this camera is this Saturday - We'll be celebrating my MIL's birthday... Oh boy oh boy... I am so excited!

Cold Storage Kids Run 09

2009-03-09T21:05:00.002+08:00

Anyone interested in going for the Cold Storage Kids Run 09?

Race Details:
Date: Sunday, 24th May 2009
Venue: Padang @ Marina Bay
Time: 8am - 12pm
Start Point: Connaught Drive
End Point: St. Andrew's Road

What's Cooking?

2009-03-09T14:29:00.004+08:00

I've NEVER NEVER love to cook and I can't cook even if my life depends on it! ;-P

However, since I became a "housewife", I've been doing lotsa cooking...

My morning walk consist of bring Gwendal to school and walking around the supermarket (MANY MANY ROUNDS), getting some inspirations and ingredients for dinner. Anyway, I treat it as a form of exercise cos I simply can't get my "slightly smaller" butt on my "bicycle"! Sad to say it - it has become a white elephant!

I must say I am enjoying this form of "exercise" - COOKING with LOVE. I love to watch Gwendal and Joe eat what I have cooked. Knowing that they enjoyed it gave me a form of satisfaction.

At this point, I must apologise to my Home-Econ teacher - whom I have not recollection of her name and look at all. I was one of those student you had gave up on cos I was always exchanging my washing service for food cooked by my classmates in order to get by the cooking classes. I purposefully left my half done skirt on bus 170 (knowing that it would end up in JB) so that I didn't have to be embarrass by my "fantastic" sewing skill.

I must apologise to my dad who was constantly trying to teach me to cook. But my "Midas" touch always turned the kitchen into an accident scene.

Now, I wish I did pay a little attention during class or when my dad was cooking so that I can whip up a better meal for my family.

I am glad it is NEVER to late to learn, NEVER too late to change... There's lotsa cook books to fall back on!

So what's cooking?

Tonite's dinner:

ABC Soup
Teriyaki Chicken
Seafood Tofu

Dry Spell

2009-03-06T13:19:00.003+08:00

My blog experienced a period of dry spell -- all thanks to the facebook...

BUT I am back!

Zoo Outing (03 Jan 009)

2009-01-06T15:18:00.007+08:00

Where's Shyanne in the midst of all the fun?!

...

SLEEPING!

2008-12-31T23:06:00.001+08:00

Sleep thru?

2008-12-28T02:08:00.002+08:00

Could it be Shyanne is ready to sleep thru?

Yesterday, she slept from 10pm (25/12) to 5am (26/12)... Waking up once for diaper change.

Now, I am awake cos it is way past her feeding time and there's no sign of her waking up now.

Boy oh Boy!!!!

Merry Christmas!!!

2008-12-25T06:00:00.001+08:00

Christmas Party @ Emil's home (Joe's boss)

2008-12-22T15:13:00.000+08:00

Photos Updates

2008-12-14T18:43:00.001+08:00

Shyanne...

Shyanne's favourite activity of the day - SLEEPING!

Gwendal...

Gwendal learning to spell her name...

Gwendal @ the nite Zoo with the snake...

Satisfaction on Gwendal's face after her favourite ICE CREAM!!!

Shyanne's Full Month Celebration

2008-12-13T17:34:00.004+08:00

@ Soup restaurant DFS

The loves of my life

2008-12-13T17:28:00.004+08:00

Joe, Gwen and Shyanne...

Birth day (12/11/08)

2008-12-12T18:51:00.000+08:00

HaPPi 4 Weeks Old Shyanne

2008-12-09T08:49:00.000+08:00

Comparison

2008-12-03T18:35:00.005+08:00

Last night, I was confessing my guilt to Joe - and trying to analyze what happened. (Takes a lot of courage to write this post, pls don't condemn me and label me the horrible mother)

As much as I want to be fair to Gwendal and Shyanne... There are bound to be some comparison. I caught myself comparing both of them on several occasions - How I enjoyed Gwendal cos she was a very quiet baby while Shyanne is more vocal.

As much as I want to love them both equally... There are bound to be some inequality. I seems to enjoy my alone time with Gwendal more than with Shyanne. I feel so horrible!!!!

I even feel "angry" at Shyanne sometimes, especially when Joe and Gwendal are out having fun and I am stuck home with a crying baby. Sometimes, I feel more like an espresso machine to Shyanne than a mother... Sigh!

Post Natal Blues? Perhaps, I don't know...

Joe said it could be because Gwendal has gotten over the crying stage and thus I have forgotten what she was like as a baby. Perhaps, Maybe...

Maybe it was because with Gwendal, I started with a "clean sheet" and was expecting the "worst" based on all the stories I heard from the other mothers. So I was better prepared mentally and emotionally. Furthermore, Joe was there for me almost whenever I need him.

While with Shyanne, I gave birth to her expecting the best - expecting her to be like Gwendal (I know it is not fair- Don't compare!!!!) Hence, when Shyanne was slightly more vocal, has a erratic feeding schedule and rejects formula milk - I am thrown off guard and frustration sets in. Plus, Joe's busy at work, has to take care of Gwendal when he's home and is spending less time with me (tho he's really trying - calling me whenever he can)... I feel almost like a "single mother".

I am not sure if other mothers go thru what I am going thru... Maybe I am all alone experiencing these emotional turmoils.

But I know it will soon be over! At least Shyanne has been waking up twice for night feed (@ 1am and 4am) for 7 nights in a roll - allowing me to have longer sleep at night. As for the day schedule, I am not going to force it. I think it is only fair that I give her some room to adjust... after all, she is only 3 weeks old!

slEEp deprivation

2008-12-03T12:02:00.002+08:00

The highest level of sleep deprivation -

Last night, I took off my glasses just before I sleep... I was woken up by Shyanne's cry and my glasses fell off from my finger.

I must have fell asleep immediately after I took off my glasses and did not even put it down...

wahahaha... I think I have reached the highest level of sleep deprivation.

HaPPi 3 Weeks Old Shyanne

2008-12-02T08:57:00.002+08:00

2008-11-25T21:47:00.003+08:00

I must really count my blessings! Thank God for protecting my family...

This morning, as MIL & I was fussing over crying Shyanne, Gwendal was climbing up the stairs towards us (which she has been doing on her own for many months already).

She must have lost her footing and rolled down the flight of stair!!!

I was carrying Shyanne - all I could do was screamed "NO" ... all I could do was watched her rolled down in slow motion... I was almost in tears already!!!

MIL dashed down the stairs. Thank God, Wati was nearby, she managed to grab Gwendal before she hit the concrete floor.

After rolling the flight of stairs, she stood up perfectly fine without any bruise, just in shock! Cried for me to carry her. I put Shyanne in the playpen and went to comfort her.

Too much drama for a day...

HaPPi 2 Weeks Old Shyanne

2008-11-25T21:46:00.001+08:00

My Blessings...

2008-11-25T20:40:00.004+08:00

Before I gave birth, I indicated to my dad and grandma that I really would like to eat vinegar pig trotters during my confinement.

On last Sunday, my dad and grandma went to Chinatown to buy for me.

On last Monday, my grandma got a relative to cook a big pot for me.

Today, my dad especially ride his scooter from Serangoon to Jurong - just to give me another pot.

The love of a Father! Thanks DAD!

I really appreciate all the support I am getting from both Joe's and my family. I know I am very bless but I still whine alot. Sigh! I guess it is human nature to always look at the negative side of thing.

Oki... I still have 2 more weeks of confinement! I am going to make the best out of it. I don't know how but I am going to try to enjoy being confined...

Lonely confinement

2008-11-23T11:57:00.004+08:00

... 7 lonely days makes 1 lonely week,

7 lonely nights makes 1 lonely me...

When I was helping up at my dad's KTV pub many years ago, this was one of those songs I rolled my eyes whenever someone selected it. I mean it was so "over-sang", just like the Chinese song "Xiao Wei".

Today I want to say Sorry ah! (to all the Ah Peh, Uncles, Aunties who ever selected this song)

My understanding of loneliness has just deepen.

Was just chatting with Joe on the phone - YA! One of the longest conversation we had since I gave birth - Cos we are sleeping apart now (12 days already!), there's no pillow talk anymore. He says he feels lonely too.. and I start ranting about who is lonelier... it is so me to compare lor - but you must understand I am being confined while he's able to go anywhere he want...

Before we end our conversation, I told him - when it comes to Gwendal's & Shyanne's time - I will tell them to skip "CONFINEMENT" if they feel their body is up to it, go for car rides, go out... Free their mind and body.

Argh... I am yearning for a can of cold 7-up!

Funny story

2008-11-22T14:49:00.005+08:00

I have not been checking my emails for the longest time and finally, today I managed to read some emails from my friends. This story is funny and it brought a smile to my face so I tot to post it up and share it lah...

An elderly man in Mumbai calls his son in New York and says, 'I hate to ruin your day son, but I have to tell you that your mother and I are getting a divorce; 35 years of marriage... and that much misery is enough!'

'Dad, what are you talking about?' the son screams.

'We can't stand the sight of each other any longer,' the old man says. 'We're sick of each other, and I'm sick of talking about this, so you call your sister in Hong Kong and tell her!'

Frantic, the son calls his sister, who explodes on the phone. 'Like heck they're getting divorced,' she shouts, 'I'll take care of this.'

She calls Mumbai immediately, and screams at the old man, 'You are not getting divorced. Don't do a single thing until I get there. I'm calling my brother back, and we'll both be there tomorrow. Until then , don't do a thing, DO YOU HEAR??' and she hangs up.

The old man hangs up his phone and turns to his wife. 'Okay', he says, 'It's all set. They're both coming for Deepavali and paying their own airfare!!'

Some Snap Shots

2008-11-21T15:00:00.003+08:00

Hmm.. Can't wait till next month then release Shyanne's Photo so here's some snap shots for your viewing pleasure...

Gwendal carrying Shyanne @ TMC

Shaynne napping...

Gwendal reading her made-up stories to Shyanne - playing her role as elder sister.
3 Stories - The pig story (her version of 3 little pigs), The bear story (her version of Goldilocks) and The cow story (purely her imagination)

Gwendal napping with Shyanne

Post Natal Blues...

2008-11-20T00:39:00.000+08:00

No wonder my gynae was talking to Joe about being supportive towards me & working on our marriage especially after giving birth...

It is so easy to get emotional at this stage right now. My body is going thru so many sensations - soreness, itchy stretch marks, engorged breast, shivering and aching joints, bleeding nipples...etc. Plus sleeping apart from Joe due to Shyanne's erratic nite feed schedule and her LOUD CRY (I mean really really loud)

Somehow, I find myself "stranded" all alone physically and emotionally.

Celine Dion's song kept ringing in my mind... this portion is really appropriate for me

All by myself

Don’t wanna be

All by myself Anymore

Hard to be sure

Sometimes I feel so insecure

And loves so distant and obscure

Remains the cure

Anyway, Shyanne's nite schedule is more predictable (these 2 nites)- 12mn, 4am, 7.30am...

At least things are looking up now as Shyanne is forming a more predictable schedule. Keeping my finger cross that Shyanne will sleep thru' after the first month just like Gwendal. I miss my hubby! Maybe a bit of his snoring too!

HaPPi Birthday to me....

2008-11-16T23:14:00.001+08:00

Yup, yup, this is my 2nd birthday spent in the hospital - First, I gave birth to Gwendal in 2005, this time round - Shyanne!

Joe bought me a phone in 2005, this time round he bought me a Nintendo DS Lite to help me kill time!

Thanks Dear!

Thanks to Khim - I am hooked onto "Cooking Mama 2 dinner with friends"

Confinement

2008-11-15T20:15:00.001+08:00

So what's life like after giving birth to No. 2... One word - CONFINED!

Being a mother again open doors to a whole world of new experiences even though it is my 2nd child.

Traditionally, we have to go thru 40days of "no shower/bath" (to prevent future aches and pain), eating food that contain ginger (to remove "air"), fish (for breast milk purposes)... blah blah blah....

One thing I do not understand is Why MUST we go thru Confinement?

Being a fairly active person, I feel like my life suddenly came to a stand-still. Life now revolves around breast feeding, diaper changing, pumping breast milk, counting the baby's in-take, observing the baby's poos, trying to spend equal time with both Gwendal and Shyanne, staring out of the window - wondering where is my neighbour going whenever I hear a car drove off, wondering what are those people doing at snow city on a Monday afternoon... I have become a wondering wanderer!

My conversations are limited to Gwendal - whom I am constantly trying to re-assure her that I still love her, MIL - who asked me the same questions at every few hours (Eat already? Enough breast milk or not?), FIL - one standard question for me whenever I sit down with him at the sofa (You want to watch TV?)

It's been 3 days only and I am feeling the confinement blues - not post natal blues... I sms-ed Joe and asked him to just spend 10 mins in the evening with me. He would tell me about what's going in the world outside this 4 walls - be it PIE jammed or the sermon preached on Sunday - It helped me feel better and less lonely - makes me feel like I am still part of this active world.

A few have already asked if I would consider going for the third child.
My answer before the delivery - Yes.
My answer during the delivery - No.
My answer during confinement - DOUBLE NO!

Perhaps, it is a sign to stop at 2!

Welcome Shyanne...

2008-11-14T20:12:00.000+08:00

Shyannne Chia born on the 12th of Nov, 3.33kg, 50cm @ Thomson Medical Centre.

(Joe left the camera at home while I am having my confinement at Jurong - MIL's place... Sigh! Photos will be up as soon as I get hold of the camera)

PoPPin' PoPPin' soooon

2008-11-11T14:51:00.004+08:00

Joe took leave yesterday - SURPRISED! I thought he will not be taking leave...

Anyway, I wanted to go to the Zoo but it rained cats and dogs... Ended up going to Friday's for lunch, my check up and dinner at whampoa market.

Can u believe it - I have gained 2kg in a week. Arghh.... Baby Shyann has grown from 2.8kg to 3.3kg. Dr Adrian did not believe it and double checked!!!!! No wonder I am feeling the heaviness over the last few days!

Dr Adrian wanted me to check in today but I did not want to... It's Gwendal's birthday and I wanted to spend some time with her. She has been such a darling recently...

Anyway, Joe and I was thrown into a mental disarray. Tho, I knew I am going to give birth soon and have been preparing alot of stuff, it did not occur to me I am not mental prepared!

Joe and I ended up steaming all the baby's stuff last nite (just in case the water burst today)...

We did facial mask, remove black heads, scrub... blah blah blah... as if I will not have any chance to clean my face forevermore.... wahahaha...

I think we basically are doing these things to just calm ourselves down lah!

Anyway, there are so much to update but I think I will most likely be doing it after I give birth.

HaPPi 3rd Birthday

2008-11-11T01:41:00.001+08:00

HaPPi Birthday to my precious princess Gwendal...

HaPPi 7th Anniversary

2008-11-10T01:00:00.001+08:00

HaPPi 7th Anniversary!

Surprise...

2008-11-06T08:47:00.002+08:00

Joe surprised me with flowers last night.

Being a terribly un-romantic person, I asked him what is the bouquet for...

His answer: "I DIDN'T DO ANYTHING WRONG. I was just walking around in between my appointments and tot I have not bought flowers for you..."

Thanks Dear! :)

Gwendal's Creativity

2008-11-04T03:57:00.003+08:00

Gwendal pasted Joe's photo on her toy photo as her contact pic whenever she pretended to call him at work this morning... Soooooooo KAWAII!

Was teaching Gwendal to write the alphabet but we got bore and started drawing - This was what she drew when I told her to draw PaPa.

Me @ 38th week

2008-11-03T23:19:00.001+08:00

So far, I have gained a GRAND TOTAL of 12 kg (my last pregnancy, I gained 15kg)... So I am doing pretty well on the weight area, taken into consideration, I have been whacking on CHOCOLATE recently!!!! ;P oooo... those yummy Whittaker's roasted ALMOND GOLD (If I have a chocolate blog - this will be under the die die must try category)

Shyann is around 2.8kg now. She is growing well - head is down, all ready for birth. Crossing my finger - She will come after Gwendal's birthday!

Anyway, I have started on my maternity leave already... Spending some quality time with Gwendal. At the same time, start preparing for Shyann's arrival. "Sun-ing" the cot mattress, washing all the new born clothes, sterilising the toys, milk bottles...etc etc...

Happening Month!

2008-11-01T15:46:00.001+08:00

02 Nov: Eric
04 Nov: Dong Xu
07 Nov: Jayden / Ning
11 Nov: GWENDAL / Zoe
13 Nov: Hao Guan / Natalia / ME
14 Nov: Kirby
17 Nov: Fabian
19 Nov: Hock
20 Nov: Fiona / Joey
24 Nov: Jodie / Dorcas
27 Nov: Lawrence

HaPPi Halloween

2008-10-31T03:50:00.003+08:00

Zoe on Young Parents

2008-10-28T17:13:00.001+08:00

Gwendal was so excited about seeing Zoe on the cover of Young Parents (Nov Edition)...

Zoe looks soooo cute.....

Mummy so sad

2008-10-26T17:37:00.007+08:00

Over the past few days, it has been the most trying time for me as a mum...

On Wednesday night, Joe was about to put Gwendal to bed when he accidentally sandwiched Gwendal's finger at the door. It was a bloody sight!! A sight I wish I never had to witness. Everything happened so fast... In the midst of grabbing a hanky and some ice, the next thing I realised I was in KK Hospital A&E in my shorts and tees holding on to Gwendal's birth cert and my wallet.

Joe was in no better state than me. His face was stricken with guilt and pain, I could almost hear his heart "cry" as he drove to KK.

Gwendal, on the other hand, beside the initial cries of pain, she was very quiet in the car. In fact, she held on my my hand and said "mummy, I'm ok..." so many times... I almost broke down and just kept hugging her.

We went thru the normal procedure at the A&E - registration, wait, X-ray, wait, wait, wait and finally, after almost 2 hours of waiting, a young doc was ready to see us. I know he was doing his job but GOSH!!!! I wished he stopped giving all the negative text book answers - It was so late in the nite (or so early in the morning) - All I remember of the whole conversation are - no visible fracture, deformities, put her to sleep, stop breathing, breathing tube in Gwen's lungs, stitches... blah blah blah...

After the X-Ray, waiting for the Q number.... long long wait!

Gwendal's finger while the doc was explaining the side effect of putting her to sleep.

Joe was so "angry" with himself mostly and the doc.. most probably tired from the day's work and all the "excitement"... He rolled his eyes and told the doc we will observe for a few more days before we make a decision.

I had to take urgent leave for Thursday and Friday to look after Gwendal.

Being a mum, one of the hardest thing is see your child hurting. Tho Gwen kept saying she is ok, but every time I touched her finger, she would pull back her hand. Friday was quite difficult for me as there was still a little bleeding and I was almost in tears begging Joe to let me go to the hospital again. I feel so helpless - At that moment, I really wished I studied to be a doc then. I blamed my stupidity.

Today is the 4th day since the incident. Gwendal is doing pretty well. The blood clot have cleared and the cuts and broken skins seems to have healed. Thank God for that!

Now, I call Gwendal my ONE HAND HERO

Let Not My Heart Be Troubled

2008-10-23T12:47:00.000+08:00

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you… Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

I feel loved when...

2008-10-21T20:32:00.003+08:00

Got this quiz from LingLing's blog...

The Five Love Languages
My Primary Love Language is Physical Touch

My Detailed Results:
Physical Touch:	11
Quality Time:	7
Acts of Service:	7
Words of Affirmation:	5
Receiving Gifts:	0

Take the Quiz!
Check out the Book

Community Aerobic @ Bukit Panjang Plaza

2008-10-20T20:22:00.002+08:00

Video will be added as soon as Joe email me lah... Stay tune

Thumb-less nites

2008-10-14T05:20:00.002+08:00

BREAKTHROUGH!!!

Gwendal has been sleeping 8 nites in a row without CHEWING or SUCKING her thumb!

Over the past few nites, we have our fair share of struggles, tears and laughter.

She cried and said she can't sleep without her thumb.
She plead with me to allow her to suck her thumb.
She asked her bear bear for permission to suck her thumb. Somehow, her bear bear's "answer" is a "NO" too (I believe Gwendal knew it was time to let go of the habit)
She wanted Joe's confirmation when I said "NO" to sucking thumb.
...
...
...
FINALLY, she fell asleep last nite without any struggle at all... I am so proud of her!

Random Shots...

2008-10-13T17:12:00.001+08:00

ICE CREAM @ Ben & Jerry's

Gwendal's 4th movie - WALL E

Me spilled Milo on Gwendal - Clumsy mummi :(

Instead of crying, she was comforting me - kept telling me "it's ok!". Even refused to let us carry her cos it would dirty our clothes. She is so sensible!!!!!

Random Shots...

2008-10-12T16:52:00.002+08:00

Lunch @ Mac

Gwendal's "Diving Suit"

Dinner @ RSYC

Our First Honda

2008-10-03T17:39:00.003+08:00

Finally, our new car is ready - All accessories done!

YES!!!!!

Bye bye - Hyundai Matrix. You have served us well! Time to retire :)

Me @ 34th week

2008-10-03T10:27:00.005+08:00

No weight gain for me in the last 3 weeks but BABY SHYANN grown from 1.6kg to 2.2kg!!!

Feeling a bit under the weather - but I am really looking forward to giving birth to Shyann! Jia You! .. go go go - seems like it is the last lap of the pregnancy!

HaPPi Children Day (Updated with more photos)

2008-10-02T00:04:00.009+08:00

It was a jammed packed Children's day for us...

Started with Dim Sum Breakfast with PIL, Bee, Hock and Yan at Geylang Lor 17 - $90+ for 8 pax.... but still cheaper than Red Star lah.

Went to NTUC finest, bought Milk Toast Bread and Honey Baked Ham. Joe is into this Swiss Gruyere Cheese thingy (thanks to Bee's recommendation!)... So we'll be having that for breakfast for the next few days.

Met up with the rest of the Nov 05 kids, mums and dads @ O'kidspot (OCC). Gwendal hit off rather well with Jodie - good for me cos Gwendal will be joining Jodie in the same school next year. Will be easy for Gwendal to settle in since she already has a friend there.

Dinner @ IMM Long Beach to celebrate Fen's birthday!

Boy oh boy... BUSY busy day! Gwendal knocked out at 7.45pm in the car...

Loving me...

2008-10-01T10:34:00.000+08:00

Words of Affrimation - That's definitely my language!

This conversation happened a few weeks ago...

Joe came home late from work that evening. Usu I would have slept but that nite, I stayed awake and waited for him cos he did not bring his keys.

When he came home, he lovingly pulled me to his side and said:"I don't know how to love you the way you want me to love you. But I am going to try... and NO, I did not do anything wrong"

Not sure if it is any script taken from some romance movie or how he got inspired.

BUT, that was one of the most romantic things he had ever said to me - well, he had me in his pocket at least for a couple of days lor!

A good nite sleep

2008-09-26T16:48:00.002+08:00

My MIL has always chide me for being "heartless" cos I let Gwendal sleep on her own in her own room.

Last night, I left Gwendal to sleep with her.

A good night rest for me.

BUT, my MIL was full of complain this morning about how Gwendal kicked and punched her thru the nite till she had not choice but to sit up and watch Gwendal sleep :p ... Sleeping with Gwendal is like sleeping in a boxing ring in the midst of a boxing match.

Today, I rest my case! I am justified! :)

Random Shots @ Suming's 21st birthday (Updated with more photos)

2008-09-25T00:25:00.002+08:00

Me @ 32nd Week

2008-09-19T20:45:00.006+08:00

Put on 10kg already... Baby is about 1.6kg now.

Telok Blangah Hill Park

2008-09-19T20:45:00.004+08:00

Gwendal went on a hike with Mary, Bee & Yan... Telok Blangah Hill Park 2.3km walk

Ball of the time...

2008-09-15T09:55:00.002+08:00

Joe had a chance to try out the ball thingy @ Suntec City... was free cos we spent a certain amount at Suntec. Gwendal was supposed to go in with Joe but back out last min.

Random Shots...

2008-09-15T09:45:00.002+08:00

Oh.. how my baby has grown into a little gal...

Me @ 31st week

2008-09-13T00:11:00.003+08:00

Totally STRETCHED! EXPANDED!

I Know I have not been very updated! Lotsa photos to sort and post.... Sigh! Oki, will try to do it soon lah!

Right now, I am going to sleep liao... Yawn....

Tumble Tots & Safra Olympics 2008

2008-08-31T13:44:00.002+08:00

Hopefully, our new car will be ready soon... Feeling really "CRIPPLED" without a car.

I am homesick! Miss my home, my bed, my toilet... Sob Sob... - It's only been a week! Can't imagine one month confinement at Jurong.

Just this morning I was telling Joe, be it Picanto or QQ ... however small a car is, if it brings you from point A to point B... it is a GOOD car! Wahahaha... that's my desperation speaking lah...

Stairway To Heaven (Korean Drama) is back...

2008-08-29T19:38:00.003+08:00

Channel U - Mon to Fri - 6pm to 7pm

Strange enough, I was addicted to it during my 1st pregnancy...

It is back for my 2nd pregnancy... hahaha... Joe is going to complain about all the sobbing and Korean music liao... hahahaha

2008-08-29T15:04:00.002+08:00

I just read one of a Stomper's input on how 2 women discuss about giving up their seat to a preggy and decided not to do it in the end.

This inspires me to tell my story...

Just 3 weeks ago, I had to bring Gwendal home via public transport (Bus & LRT). The bus was rather packed and the TIBS bus driver was really nice, he stood up from his chair and shouted twice for someone to give up a seat to a pregnant lady i.e. me. The bus turned strangely quiet and NO ONE stood up. Both of us smiled and I told him it is ok. He said he would give up his seat for me if he could. Anyway, I only managed to get a seat 2 bus stop later cos someone was alighting.

The LRT ride was the same... a student only stood up after 2 stop to give up her seat for Gwendal.

Anyway, not that I am expecting everyone to give me the royal treatment wherever I go BUT I seriously think certain people should re-consider some of their act.

If you are really tired and do not wish to give up the seat - FINE! I can understand. BUT SAFETY FIRST!

I was with Gwendal on the MRT, walking toward an empty seat. A man came from behind me, dashed past Gwendal and almost knocked into her while trying to get to that empty seat. I don't care who gets the seat, just be mindful of the safety of others.

I have encountered another man jumping right in front of Gwendal pram while I was entering the train. I had to "E" brake so that I won't knock into him...

Maybe I ought to learn from the stomper - start taking pics and put up a hall of shame for these inconsiderate people. An idea for me to explore...

Leap Frog Letter Factory

2008-08-26T13:41:00.003+08:00

Jong lent me Jodie's leapfrog letter factory dvd - Jodie is able to recognise all the letters by watching this dvd.

Gwendal loves it...

Top 10 Murphy's Laws

2008-08-26T11:53:00.006+08:00

When every thing goes wrong... ...

I am on MC again - due to pain on my lower back, pelvis area and hip. It's been rather difficult to get up when I am sitting or lying down.... even to toss and turn on my bed takes alot. Doc said it is common in 2nd pregnancy, I just have to bear with the pain and rest plenty.

We are officially car-less for the next few days. Our Hyundai Matrix decided to give up on us before we give up on her. Hahaha... New car will only arrive in 1 - 2 weeks time - at least one happy news. So, we'll be staying at my in laws till we get our new car - to minimise travelling.

Last nite, Joe joking told me to roll from the mattress to the bed instead of trying to get up (after 3 failed attempts to stand up)... I cried. Partly in pain, partly because I have never felt so helpless.... Sigh!

Anyway, Joe's X9 - broke down 2 weeks ago and he has been procrastinating the repairs. When the car broke down yesterday, he took urgent leave today so that he can repair the bike. BUT... he lost the bike keys! Unbelievable?!?

He was complaining about today being the worst day of his life . . . I told him the worst has yet to come - His wife (ME) has yet to start nagging!!!!

And hence, this motivated me to search on Murphy's law.

Top 10 Murphy's Laws:

1. If something can go wrong, it will.

2. If anything simply cannot go wrong, it will anyway.

3. Left to themselves, things tend to go from bad to worse.

4. Matter will be damaged in direct proportion to its value.

5. The chance of the bread falling with the buttered side down is directly proportional to the cost of the carpet.

6. The buddy system is essential to your survival; it gives the enemy somebody else to shoot at. (MY PERSONAL FAV! Hahaha...)

7. Technology is dominated by those who manage what they do not understand.

8. he opulence of the front office decor varies inversely with the fundamental solvency of the firm.

9. Tell a man there are 300 billion stars in the universe and he'll believe you. Tell him a bench has wet paint on it and he'll have to touch to be sure.

10. The first myth of management is that it exists.

Well, things will get better, I know - just need to vent of some steam, that's all.

Joy Joy Joy...

2008-08-21T21:59:00.002+08:00

The government has decided to backdate the Baby Bonus and other incentive measures in the enhanced Marriage and Parenthood Package to August 17, 2008!

THANK YOU! Yahoooooooo...........

Disappointing....

2008-08-20T19:12:00.002+08:00

I tot the new policies will be backdated, just like back in Aug 2004... why this time round the policies will only be implemented in next year...

SIGH! SIGH! SIGH!

There's a petition going on - hopefully, it will be effective in changing the mind of the govt lah!

... HaPPi MuMMi = Disappointed Mummy ...

Prime Minister's National Day Rally Speech 2008

2008-08-18T22:08:00.003+08:00

4 months maternity leave!!!!! plus 6 days childcare leave!!!!! plus a week of infant care leave (not too sure about this)!!!!! plus more CC subsidy!!!!! plus many unknown numbers such as tax incentives - to be announced in the improvised baby bonus package!!!!

Seems like every time I got preggy, the baby bonus package just get better and better! Maybe I ought to think about NO. 3 lah. Wahahahaha.... Must support support mah. I am one of those dragon kids he was talking about.

Can't wait for them to reveal more...

Me @ 27th week

2008-08-17T04:01:00.006+08:00

Finally, I am able to sit down in the stillness of the morning to blog...

It's 4am in the morning and I am fully awake!!!

Just some updates...

Celebrated National Day with BBQ and oooo... strawberry Short CAKE (from Raffles City) with Joe's family (Can u believe it - I did not take a single shot at all!!)... We had great food, good jokes and fun - fighting over the TV remote control, singing the pledge...

Met up with Jong and FINALLY, I carried baby Julia in my arms. Suddenly, I felt so helpless... As if I have lost the skills to look after young babies. Can't remember what it was like when Gwendal was so tiny. Anyway, we went to register for Jodie and Gwendal at NLCC - I am on the waiting list now for the Dec intake.

Gene and Joey treated us to Brunch Buffet at Hai Tien Lo (level 37 of Pan Pacific Hotel)... It was so yummy. They just took their wedding album photos yesterday. Now they are scouting around for their love nest and are getting ready to go back to China for their wedding dinners in Oct. Joe may be going with them. Too bad I will be too preggy to travel... Otherwise it will be an interesting trip - to see their wedding cultures plus I have NEVER been to China.

Met up with Steven & Mary - Been a long long time since we sat down and have fellowship. Mary prepared her ever popular Nasi Lemak. Joe bought $45 worth of durian (Think he was conned - The durian was huge and not as tasty - not worth the price - NEVER trust Durian Seller when they tell you it is the best!!! Haha).

Gwendal has been swimming at Yishun Safra regularly on Sat Morning. She loves the slides and the toy that Joe bought for her.

Her new found love - APPLES. I diced it without the skin and she ate it like snack while watching her cartoons.

I wish I could have been more patient with her but sometimes, I just raised my voice at her, wishing she could be more co-operative (feeling totally frus with myself). In fact she is co-operative, just not up to what I really EXPECT!

Today, Mary's maid gave Gwendal 2 lollies. I told Gwendal to returned it to the maid (She has just eaten ICE CREAM and I don't want her to be too hype at nite). I looked away and just observe her from the corner of my eyes. At first, she was really reluctant. She stared at the lollies for the longest time (I was about to cave in and open one of them for her) but she slowly walked towards the kitchen. She returned both to the maid, stared as the maid puts the lollies back and walked back towards me looking really disappointed. She asked me for a hug, I carried her in my arms and rewarded with a sweet from my bag. She is obedient, but sometimes, she needs time to weight out what I asked her to do. I wish I have more patience!

Yawn.... Going to prepare for church now and then go back to bed...

Till my next update....

HaPPi MuMMi

Simple Express Dinner

Where is my cape!?!

I missed my bus!

My weekend

CHICKEN ALA CARTE

Gwendal's Mini Concert

Heidi Klum on Ellen DeGeneres (Chicken Dance)

Gwendal's Bolster Alphabet Series

In a super Ah Lian's Mood...

Hokkien songs

Tonite's Dinner

Gwendal's first take home project

Susan Boyle on Britains Got Talent 2009!!

TAKEN

Spa Delights @ True Spa

My handy helper

Tis the season of "gifting"...

Shyanne Lifts!!!

Tonite's Dinner

Nite Out @ Muddy Murphy's Irish Pub

Tonite's Dinner

Communication breakdown?

New Toy

Tonite's Dinner

Lunch @ T.G.I. Fridays (JB)

Sunday...

Saturday...

Tonite's Dinner

Shyanne turns!!!!

Tonite's Dinner

MiL 78th Birthday (14 Mar 09) @ Pine Court

Updates

What to do over this weekend?

Tonite's Dinner

Tonite's Dinner

Family Time

HaPPi 4th Month to Shyanne

My new toy...

Cold Storage Kids Run 09

What's Cooking?

Dry Spell

Zoo Outing (03 Jan 009)

Sleep thru?

Merry Christmas!!!

Christmas Party @ Emil's home (Joe's boss)

Photos Updates

Shyanne's Full Month Celebration

The loves of my life

Birth day (12/11/08)

HaPPi 4 Weeks Old Shyanne

Comparison

slEEp deprivation

HaPPi 3 Weeks Old Shyanne

HaPPi 2 Weeks Old Shyanne

My Blessings...

Lonely confinement

Funny story

Some Snap Shots

Post Natal Blues...

HaPPi Birthday to me....

Confinement

Welcome Shyanne...

PoPPin' PoPPin' soooon

HaPPi 3rd Birthday

HaPPi 7th Anniversary

Surprise...

Gwendal's Creativity

Me @ 38th week

Happening Month!

HaPPi Halloween

Zoe on Young Parents

Mummy so sad

Let Not My Heart Be Troubled

I feel loved when...

Take the Quiz!Check out the Book

Community Aerobic @ Bukit Panjang Plaza

Thumb-less nites

Random Shots...

Random Shots...

Take the Quiz!
Check out the Book