Friday, December 31, 2010

Restful 2010

Hello 2011. Daddy M and I spent our countdown watching ‘Inception’ at home. Lord, let Leonardo win the Oscars pleeeaaze.

How has my 2010 been?

Family: Best year yet.

Work: Restful with occasional grudge.

Health: Minor hiccups here and there but generally good.

Walk with God: Best year since 1988.

Thank you Jesus for a restful increase year and a better 2011 ahead!

Top-8 events of how I would remember 2010:-

1) Mobile changing station carboot2[4]

2) Grace supplies capella[3]

3) Smell the roses photoecp[3]

4) Uncle 4DSC_0392[2]

5) Christian Loubutins Picture_575_thumb[2]

6) Allergy to eggs _MG_0470[4]

7) P.O.P  _MG_13035

8) Uluwatu bali

 

Thank You. All that I have is from You.

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Switched off

Post our Bali trip, I have hit the 'relax' button at work, going in a few hours a day with extended breakfasts and lunches. Sometimes I just 'work' from home (wink: with bb S). I'm adopting the ostrich approach by not thinking of my January's schedule with 2 traveling plans (KL and US). So how am I gonig to enjoy my last few days of 2010?

1) Cut my hair
2) Shopping for new clothes- pre-pregnancy clothes are out of fashion :)
3) Massage / facial session
4) Pedicure/manicure
5) DinnerS with friends

Hmmm... this relax week seems a bit packed!

Sunday, December 26, 2010

My very own Van Gogh

Remember this arrangement on my first Saturday Flowers post a few months ago?

satflower

It has inspired a fellow blogger who chanced upon my post to transform the picture to a gorgeous creation!

 

 

flower

I’m so honoured!

Saturday, December 25, 2010

Mommeeeee for Christmas

My best Christmas present this year (after the  S95 and an Indian recipe book) is to hear bb S calling me ‘mommeee’. Repeatedly. If I respond with exaggeration acting pleasantly surprised, she would go on and on.  My heart melted over and over again.

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Unlike last Christmas (where I was a vampire battling post-babby blues), this year is quite restful – no major cookout but delicious ham from the Swiss Butcher, yummy take-out from Stewhaus and bottles of champagnes, including one from our wedding that we have been saving for ‘special’ occasion (talk about delayed gratification!).

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Perfect presents for the god-daughter and nieces!

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And of course, the other highlight of this Christmas is M’s present from his best bud : Iron Maiden jacket which he is only allowed to wear to the concert!

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Blessed Christmas all!

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Like mothers like daughters

I once thought that as both daddy M and my nieces and nephews are either overseas or much older, my kids may not have cousins as playmates as he/she/they grow up. Well, on hindsight, the worry was unnecessary because bb S will definitely have at least 3 girl friends to grow up with her from the the C.A.S.E group! Caitlin, Alyssa, Sophie and Emma. I wonder if the girls will grow up just like the moms!

Sophie-21

Monday, December 20, 2010

Bali getaway

We are back! After 5D4N of friendly service, good food and room with a view, I didn’t want to leave and secretly wishing we could extend our stay… Despite the insect bites on bb S face and hands, we had a GREAT time. She charmed everyone (as usual)- being greeted by name everywhere in the resort. It’s like everyone knew her. One of the nights, two waiters even offered to carry her around while they continued to usher/serve other guests, leaving us 10 minutes of quiet moments to enjoy our food! Classic.

We were also blessed to witness TWO weddings in the resort. I believe at some point in my earlier life, I might have fantasised having a wedding in Bali. And having to see two in a row somewhat fulfilled my fantasy…

Will I go back to Bali again? YES ! But equipped with powerful insect cream (in case precautionary action doesn’t work like this time).

Owner

Monday, December 13, 2010

Party planner wannabe

Perhaps one day kids party planning may be my business venture if I ditch equity research? The recent P.O.P party for S has received a few compliments and best of all, I’ve inspired a friend wanting to do more for her daughter’s birthday and I’m asked to help! So for Rie’s 8th birthday, the theme is somewhat '‘pink’ with My Little Pony as her favourite character. We are also reusing the P.O.P colour to create a banner for Rie.

I heard that the Middletons made their millions from organising parties! Maybe, just maybe one day I can inspire other mothers to create magical parties at home and make party organising a little easier yet affordable.

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Sunday, December 12, 2010

Thanksgiving

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A few nights ago, I was asked to pen down my TOP 5 thanksgiving list for 2010:-

1) S.O.P.H.I.E and of course daddy M! They are my EVERYTHING.

2) 2010 Rock Kidz Leaders Retreat which has enriched me tremendously, wanting to know more about God.

3)  Daddy M’s position at work.

4) God’s protection throughout the year.

5) 3 good friends started to attend church regularly. Hallelujah!

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Jurassic Park came alive

It was an unusual night out where the adult kept asking the child: "what's this?" , "what's that?"

Yes, the adult was me and the child was my nephew, at Walking with Dinosaurs -LIVE.

How was it? THUBMS UP! The show was spectacular with lifelike dinosaurs and amazing sound effects. RAWRRRR!! Though it was supposed to be educational with a narrator explaining the history of these creatures, I was mostly blown away by the cutting edge animatronics puppetry technics! Well, at least now I know how to differentiate Brachisoraus, Triceratops, Stegeosarus, Ankylosaurus and of course Tyrannosaurus rex (T-Rex).

It's one of the best Christmas presents for my 9-year old dinosaur-connoisseur-newphew!

Monday, December 6, 2010

Pink, Orange, Polka

Love the DIY banner !

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Hunted high a low for a scallop puncher to create these lovely party circles. Worth the while.

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Nothing beats celebrating this special day with family and good friends. The P.O.P party turned out exactly as I’ve imagined. Festive. Colourful. Fun

Recently Updated

Happy Birthday Sophie.  You’ve been a great blessing and joy to mummy and daddy.  The Lord’s countenance shines upon you , you’re a blessing everywhere you go. Highly favoured and deeply loved!

xoxo,

mummy who is getting all mushy on your 1st birthday.

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Bon anniversaire!

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When you have two birthdays that are too close to one another, it is understandable that one birthday may outshine the other, especially if one belongs to a cute fella with only ONE tooth.

BUT BUT BUT, don’t fret daddy M. You’ve married a gift and beautiful things nazi so I did not forget your birthday… It’s constantly on my mind even as I was busy planning for the P.O.P party (Pink, Orang, Polka).

Hope you’ve noticed and like the the little thoughts and “coordination” to make you feel special.

Joyeux anniversaire mon mari et Je t'aime!

 bisou bisou

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Shutter Chics

I love photography and Sake. And I found two good friends who share the same love. Daddy M suggested that perhaps I can start a group blog, similiar to one that I follow -Shutter Sisters, since all three of us girls/mummies take nice pix!

Showcase #1: SY who is always ready to snap excellent candid shots, not to mention her food photos are appetising too!


Showcase #2: WL who has a strong will and able to capture amazing shots if she puts her heart to it. This shot was taken under burning hot sun!


Showcase #3: ME and my random shots.


Hmm... there are so many common topics that we can blog about - parenting, photography, God, Sake etc... Sounds like a great plan!

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Drumroll please...

It's here, people. It's here.
Hello my dearest and precious December !

I've been waiting for you all these months! Thank God you're finally here. You're more special than ever because this year we have more reasons to celebrate and look forward to:-

1) a big baby's birthday in a few days time
2) a big boy's birthday after the big baby
3) we made it as 1st year parents with more wisdom and patience
4) R&R in Bali
5) shopping, shopping, shopping
6) Jesus' birhtday
7) free and easy at work = maximum time with bb S

I will cherish you dearly over the next 31 days...

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Happy birthday, Ms Sagittarius

My Sagittarius carefree friend received a hand-made album of herself for her birthday. It’s an ultra-thoughtful-out-of-this-word gift customising  recent photos of her trip to Europe. The album also comes with a self-made cover sleeve.  I know this has got nothing to do with me but I’m so in awe and speechless that it warrants a post! This is truly some gift that money can’t buy. It’s a gem.

securedownload securedownload1

xoxo,

Die-hard romance

PS: Happy Birthday, my carefree-yet-at-times-OCD dear friend!

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Swamped

Too many things too little time, too many things on my mind. This does not sit well with the edgy me who has been sleep deprived past 2 nights from bb S's middle-of-the-night wakes (nightmares/separation anxiety perhaps).

My "order book" over the next 2 weeks seems pretty full - tight deadline at work (last few reports to go before free & easy December!), tidying up loose ends for bb S birthday, thinking for M's birthday present, planning for activities for Dad and nephew who'll be in town, Christmas shopping list...

Breath in... breath out....in again... and out....


"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."--- Romans 8:28

Monday, November 22, 2010

Effective parenting

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Parenting tip #101: Strategically position your play pan facing the TV. Play some bible stories or children gospel songs and enjoy your meal in peace for a good 30 minutes. 

xoxo,

First-time parent to a fast-crawling baby

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Happy 33!

Desktop2

We met 11 years ago. First impression: Aloof. Mysterious.

A few months down the road, we became good friends, belonging to the four-footer club.  She’s been a great influence over these years, seeing me through my ups and downs, sharing my joys and darkest secrets…

It’s her birthday today and let me tell you all about her...

  • Trait: iron will, intuitive, sensitive, courageous, fierce and has an incredible personal magnetism
  • Work: successful, loyal, confident and efficient
  • Motherhood: One of the most ‘let-go’ and cool moms to two beautiful kids. A non-conformist to our Kiasu/Kiasi culture
  • Family:  She’s the pillar to her sister, giving her the best and all. A great daughter her father needs and proud of
  • Wife: Passionate, a close confidant . She is a steady and calm wife who seldom loses her cool, but when she does, he is in BIG BIG trouble
  • Friendship: She is discerning, knowing who are real friends. She has great wisdom and often sought as a solver to friends’ problems

Happy Birthday my dear friend! I am privileged to be in your inner circle today.  Wishing you health, joy and perfect complexion!

PS: my mother describes her as the very very very beautiful one.

Friday, November 19, 2010

Random thoughts

  • I wake up and sleep with “what’s pink and orange” in my mind.
  • I am a present nazi, flower nazi and beautiful things nazi.
  • Bb S is still teasing my mom, not allowing her to carry but calling her sweetly and ‘tempt’ her from far.
  • November is a month of birthdays = eat, eat, eat.
  • Eat, Pray, Love is worth a watch, if you have TIME – it’s a 2.5 hours movie.
  • I hope we can go to the cinema at least 3 times a year. Once every 2 years is UNACCEPTABLE!
  • Death and life are in the power of tongue – Proverbs 18:21.
  • Textile centre is the best place to get cheap and nice ribbons in Singapore!

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Peekaboo

She likes to hide behind the dining chair to peep over while I do my work, and loves it if I pretend to be surprised to see her…

hide and seek

Monday, November 15, 2010

7-year hitch

We celebrated our 7-year courtship anniversary today. What have I learnt from this tall, dark and handsome man after being with him for 2,555 days?

  • Family is the most important thing in the world
  • Wisdom is the best asset one can have
  • Do not overstretch myself
  • How to frame and compose a nice photo shot
  • Indian food is not fattening
  • uTorrent is a good source of entertainment
  • I am loved no matter what happens
  • Self confidence

Happy anniversary babe.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Contemplation

This shot was taken when bb S was watching TV. I wonder what was going through her mind…Judging from her fingers, it appeared as if she’s contemplating… _MG_0566

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Bottomed out

Bottomed out- a commonly used term in my course of work for companies starting to pick up in profits after a season of ‘lows’. Never thought it would be applicable to me. On the day my accident last week, my central nerve system sort of broke down and I accidentally bit my lip over lunch. It has since developed into a septic ulcer that requires antibiotic treatment. My speech and mood have been affected over the past few days as I couldn’t talk due to the pain. Colleagues told me that I have been jinxed given the series of ‘event’s that had happened to me recently - chicken pox, bb S falling sick, accident, back ache, knee, ulcer... But I rejected all in Jesus name, knowing that great blessings are in store for me. Yesterday I gloriously closed the chapter of my ‘episodes’ by accidentally stepping on someone’s poo in the ladies!Bizarre!! God knows how the piece of s.h.i.t landed on the floor…

Psalms 23: 4 ~ Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

tree Need I say more?

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Privilege of a first born

A friend of mine once laughed at parents who spend effort organising their first child’s 1st birthday… I was also in the sniggering camp wondering how some parents are able to splurge $200 on an elaborated 3D birthday cake for a child who can’t enjoy it and probably won’t remember a single second of the day.

Obviously I have switched camp, although I’m still not willing to spend $200 on a cake. But I’m imagining a colourful, fun, festive 1st birthday for bb S! Why not?? I only have ONE firstborn in my life.

invite

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Soul refreshing

Psalms 23: 3 ~ He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake

tree My soul is refreshed. I am righteous not because of my own ‘works’ but by His grace and what He has done on the cross.  Righteousness again, is not something ‘holy’ or the feeling of up and mighty. It’s knowing that we are RIGHT in His eyes. Doesn’t matter what we have done or gone through. We are still loved.  So much more by Jesus.

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Psalms 23

Psalms 23 is an awesome passage… simple and powerful. Every verse speaks of LIFE, if we take time to understand them… There are only 6 verses in this chapter. If we just take 5 minutes a day to meditate on each verse, we’ll be surprised how it breathes words to us as we go about our daily lives...

1~The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. 

treeThis does not mean I am ‘holy’ and not having any ‘wants’. But it means I shall not lack. Simply because He is the shepherd. I am provided for.

shepherd

2~He maketh me to lie down in green pastures, he leadeth me beside the still waters

tree He LEADS me. He makes me REST. Rest doesn’t mean physical inactivity. Rest = Believing. Knowing that the finished work is DONE because of Jesus on the cross.

To be continued….

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Do not try this at home

The other day, out of desperation to help bb S fight her high fever, I heeded a friend’s advice to try a home remedy.

Friend:When I was young and had high fever, my mom used to make a dough out of plain flour and raw egg, put it on my chest for about 20minutes. My fever subsided immediately. It’s very effective!!”

We googled it and found some comments on the effectiveness of this traditional method.

When I took this picture, I was having a good laugh and couldn’t wait to brag about the success of the home remedy.

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A few hours later, I was at the paediatrician being ‘educated’ on how infants under 1 year-old could react to egg white.

Not only did the fever remain, bb S developed a red patch of rash on her chest, possibly from the egg.

Do not judge or roll your eyes. I know I need more wisdom. Sorry bb S...

Note: the remedy was done when daddy M was not at home. As usual, he was calm when he found out…

xoxo,

First-time parent.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

The pillar

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After reading my previous post, daddy M asked me:“how come I wasn’t mentioned at all?”

Oh yes, I got carried away…How could I have missed daddy M? The pillar who :-

  • was the first person I called after the accident
  • did not hesitate for a second to drop everything in the office to be with me
  • made the right decision when I was confused and dazed from concussion
  • understood that I needed good food to cheer me up
  • ensured that bb S is well taken care of
  • is always there for me

Silver lining

silverlining

I am expecting good things to come out of this week.

Monday morning: Went for a scheduled MRI for my knee which has been giving me some problem.

Tuesday morning: On my way to see the doc to review the MRI (above), my cab was knocked from the rear. I suffered a mild concussion and some pain on my back. With that I was given a week of hospitalisation leave (alternative to hospital admission).

Tuesday afternoon: Went for a back MRI and neck X-Ray as a result of the accident.

Wednesday morning: Physiotherapy for the above.

Wednesday afternoon: Review of second MRI shows a tear on the disc fibrosis at my lower back and a minor whiplash on my neck.

It’s only mid-week but it’s been one heck of a week.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

~Psalm 23:6

Monday, November 1, 2010

Holiday planning

We are always fickle, especially in our travelling plans. More so with bb S in our lives.

First we planned to visit daddy M’s sister and nephews in Melbourne in December. Then we heard that it may be very hot this summer. So we changed our plans to Tasmania, hoping to escape from the heat. A few days later, suddenly we were travelling half the globe to Cape Town because the air tickets were cheap. Yes we can be unrealistic at times. So we popped some reality pills and agreed that we should wait another 5 more years to enjoy the Safari together with bb S. Then we were going to Paris and Aix en Province. Too cold too cold! Kyoto and Tokyo would be better. I was thrilled to fulfil my dream! Sigh…but 10-15°C is still too cold for the little fella considering that we sleep in 26°C (with blanket).

Finally we took the exotic route to Chiang Mai or Bali. Perfect weather.

We tossed a few coins and read hundreds of reviews from Tripadvisor.

Uluwatu Beach here we come.

bali-uluwatu-temple

It’s also my alternative to the Amalfi Coast…

italy-positano-amalfi-coast

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Bewitched

halo

After a 5-year break, with a few weddings and babies in between, we decided to relive the memories of Halloween. It was more like an excuse that we created to get together. This time, no blood and no scary makeup (phew!).  First we were not sure if people still dress up for this day. Secondly, we needed an age appropriate theme. Black attire, witches hats, red/black lipsticks and nails. Glamorous. Or so we thought we were.

Pumpkin day

Another dress up party.

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My sweet neighbour made us a Halloween meal– eye balls, meat loaf, coffin sandwich and fingers…

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