HSBC Tree-top Walk

23/12/2007 Sun

As expected the kids woke up late; as did we. It was 9 when I woke, followed by Kyle. Meryl finally woke up at 9.30. We quickly changed as we wanted to give our lungs a treat; fresh air at Macritchie. We went to pick up granddad and tagu then set off for the tree-top trail. The walk was very easy and scenic but too muddy from the rain yesterday. We walked for about 1 half hrs before reaching the tree-top but it was well-worth it as the view was quite spectacular from the top. It was only on the way back that it took a strain on the kids, esp Meryl who had been walking non-stop which wasn't an easy feat on her tiny legs. Yet she did not complain unlike the brother who whined and whined about how far it is and when are we stopping and that he wants to eat roti prata.

We decided on the way back to sent the hubby as a forerunner to get the car and pick us up halfway. Kyle stubbornly went with him which slowed him down considerably and ended up getting a tongue lashing from both tagu and me. We rushed Granddad back and the kids had a short swim before eating their lunch.

We were back at granddad's place again for dinner but the swim was cancelled as it rained very heavily. Feasted on popiah, ba kut teh, braised duck and chng tng. The kids played to their hearts content as we stayed on till the match between Man U and Everton ended (2:1) at 10. Tonight is the 1st night that Meryl is sleeping on her own in our bedroom...so far so good..

Night out at AMK Hub

Meryl had her ballet class in the morning after which we went to Tagu's house for lunch. We missed the cousins who were just on their way back. As usual, Kyle took the longest time to finish his food and got punished...again. I was so glad to be home as I was having about of diarrhoea and in dire need of sleep. I slept for 3 hrs straight and woke up to see the family in the middle of their dinner. After dinner, we watched a bit of tv and then decided to go AMK hub at 8.30. On the way Meryl already feeling sleepy as she slept only for an hr in the afternoon. We decided to stretch her. We went window shopping, then had french fries at Mac's, then bought some stuff at the exhibition hall, then grocery shopping at NTUC. The kids were quite hyper by then as it was already 10. They had biscuit and then some more bread along the way. By the time we reached home it was already 11. Meryl was still singing and playing and refusing to sleep. She was very 'high' as it was way past her bedtime. Finally the kids went to bed at 11.30.

Christmas Party at Wilson's

21/12/2007 Fri

Today was the annual gathering of a group of my friends. I went early with kids to Wil's place to help. Merylslept from 2.30 to almost 4 but Kyle again refused to sleep. Bea came with Auntie Grace and her son, Sol to pass Wil the dessert she made for the party. Then Uncle Rob and Auntie Meg came with their peranakan food of chicken korma, chicken masala, babi punteh, assam fish and ink squid. Then Mel and Chris came with their must-have tao suan and yu char kueh.

The kids entertained themselves watching Rui en and Chong meng play tennis on Wii console and then Kyle and Meryl played a round of boxing too. They played one game after another until dinner time when my kids get to watch their Little Einsteins. The food was great and spicy. Henry and Lena and Michelle and kids came while we were halfway through our food. The hubby came his golf to fetch the kids home while mummy played mahjung. The party ended at 9.30 for the kids and 4am for me! I was really K.O by then but $40 richer!!! :0)

Hari Raya Haji

20/12/2007 Thurs

Meryl woke up at 7 to pass urine then slept till 910 again. Had a slow morning reading papers then turned into a mad rush when we realised that we had to meet Tagu and 4th Aunt for brunch and we still needed to buy groceries from Giant. I wanted to get salmon which was at $1.09/100gm..Cheap! and oranges at 5 for 99cts..Cheap! Cannot miss...thus began our rush down to Giant Tampines, then back home to deposit our things then down to Tao payoh to meet the rest. The hubby was in a grouchy mood due to insufficient sleep and had a tiff with his sister over his son... Meanwhile Meryl was busy eating carrot cake, chee cheong fun, egg tart and mango pudding. We proceeded to Ah Chor's place where they continued eating peanut candies and biscuits. Then we headed home. Meryl and I slept from 4.15 to 7.15. Shiok! After dinner, Kyle received a heavy stroke of the cane from his daddy for being rude to me and for always disturbing his sister. I doubt he will forget this lesson easily.

After dinner of porridge, the hubby wanted to go 'gai gai' somewhere...in the end went to Compasspoint to walk and eat Ya Kun Roti with Tajiu and Jiiumu. Back home by 10.15 and kids slept by 11.

Orchard Road at X'mas

The children having their lunch after playing

The cousins on an outing to Orchard Road with Tagu

20/12/2007 Wed

Alex and Alisssa came to play with Kyle and Meryl. He was banned from watching tv for eating his breakfast too slowly. Trying to finish my History SOW. Helped Amy with her handphone crisis at home. Children lunched together. Napped from 2-4pm.

Tagu came to pick us ta 4.45 and then Jay at his place. Headed for Tangs to buy shoes for Jay then Sushi Tei at Taka for dinner. As usual Kyle got scholding but this time for talking loudly while Tagu on the phone. After lunch Tagu shopped for gifts for her 2 brothers then we walked down Orchard Rd. Left at about 9.20. Jay and Kyle stayed over. The huby came and picked Meryl and I home. Meryl talked and talked during bedtime. Finaaly went to sleep after a harsh scolding. By that time it was already 11.30pm.

Meryl's 3rd Birthday

18/12/2007 Tues

Meryl woke up at 9 today. We had our breakfast, showered, dressed up and there was still time to spare as we were ALL ready by 9.45. Jo brought all the presents and goodies to the car and we waited for it to be 10.10 as we were meeting Amy downstairs. YY and Alex and Alissa were already downstairs and we arrived at Downtown East at 10.35. Quite a lot of our guests were already there. The kids were each given a name label before they entered. My photographer Jac got lost and I had to meet her. She was instructed to take pictures of the kids in action. I was busy running around making sure that everything was in order. With Mel's help, we filled up the pinata with the goodies, then I went to order food for the adults.

At 11.15, we changed Meryl into her fairy princess outfit and she was tasked to gather all her friends in the function room for their lunch. My photographer again got lost and went out of the playgym...sigh... The kids tucked into their food happily and Meryl couldn't stop eating. She must be famished from all the excitement. After their meal, the coordinator played with them musical chair and what was funniest was that most of the kids refused to get a seat after they saw that the one who was out of the game getting a present. That included my son! The winner in the end was Celeste. Next was pinata time. All the kids, even baby Alissa got a chance to pull a string to bring the goodies down. Boy, were the children fast! They went down on all fours immediately to gather their favorite candies and in no time, their bags were full. On top of that, each kids also received a water bottle from the party organiser.

Then it was cake cutting. The cake was from Sweet Secrets with 3 beautiful Princesses, Ah em's present. Took lots of photos and the kids loved the cake. That was not the end of the party as the kids still get to continue playing at the playgym till 2.30. Each kids also recieve a balloon sculpture before they leave. Most of us stayed till 1.30 before heading home. The kids were exhausted and Meryl fell asleep in Amy's car. She woke up after we reached home and slept again at 3 with me. I was equally knocked out and woke up refreshed at 5. The kids had another meal of KFC with their macaroni and watched their shows with ah ma while the mummy had her own program!

Meryl's birthday celebration at Downtown East with 19 friends

Meryl's mini Birthday celebration

Popped over fil's place after breakfast with kids. Read newspaper and chit chat while waiting for brunch! As usual, Tagu bought a wide assortment of food, including the kids lunch at 11. Both kids wanted their dad to feed, I was more than happy :) At one point he refused to heed my advice not to give mushroom to Meryl and a struggle ensued with Meryl keeping the food for more than 20 mins in That mouthful. In the end, he accepted defeat.

We brought lunch for my mom and then the kids went homr for their nap and I was totally knocked out till 5. We hurried over Fil's place for a swim before the rest came back for dinner. Tim and I wen out to buy a cake from Angie's choice for the celebration later. For dinner the butter crab that Pansy bought was simply divine...ummm..yum yum..then TY and his family came right after our dinner. The kids then segregated in the bedroom as usual but this time they were kept separated as some had not fully recovered. Leng became the 'bridge' between the well and not so well ones. The kids, nevertheless, still had fun just seeing each other.

At 8, after Fil returned, we set the table for the cake and took lots of photos. Meryl was in a new dress made by her Xiaogu and her hair tied in pleats just like the girl in her cake. She got to blow all her 3 candles this time under the watchful eyes of her Ah pek as none of the boys dared to defy his order. Meryl was thrilled with the vanity dressing table bought by her Xiaogu but was to open only onher actual birthday.

Grandma's little drama

Today, at her ballet class, Meryl told me to wait for her outside and I happily obliged. Chatted with Jan while waiting and exchanged anecdotes of our kids. After class, I collected Meryl and Raine and waited for Byron to pick us. Meryl danced a little for grandma before she left to meet her friend.

5 min after she left, she called saying that her sandals broke and she slipped and fell and possibly twisted something. We went down with another pair of shoes and saw her to the bus stop. Along the way, met Amy with Nerise and went to her house to do some 'tattooing'. The kids had fun playing with the Dora tent and we stayed till 12.30.

The hubby and I went to pick mom up to send her to see a sinseh. Then he went to cut hair and I did some more grocery shopping. Kyle again refused to nap and I brough him up to Amy's again to play with Raine and Nerise. Then Raine came to our house and stayed till 5.30, playing toys and watching some video clips with her in it. Meryl get her wish of crispy fish tonight, something that she was requesting for this afternoon. now they are still eating. The hubby is feeding Kyle now...let him have a taste of how SLOW his son is... Tonight we are having mahjong..yeah!

Alvin and the Chipmunks

Waiting for a taxi in the middle of sengkang

We were stranded somewhere in Sengkang on our way to Tampines after receiving an sms from Vic that the show was 1030 and not 1040. We changed our plans from taking bus to cab but no cab was in sight. In the end, I had to call for one and we managed to reach there at 1035 . We quickly grabbed 3 booster seats and was in time to catch some trailers. Meryl was very happy with her seat, on the steps next to me as she was the only one there and there was absolutely no blockage! The kids including QQ enjoyed the movie and even more the popcorn. After we finshed, tajiu came to give us a lift home and Meryl, as usual, fell asleep in the car.

I spent the afternoon packing my wardrobe and clearing some clothes while my mom prepared popiah for dinner. Kyle woke up 1st and watched me pack. Then after Meryl woke, they watched Diego together. Auntie Giao came for dinner and happily helped me cart some clothes home. After dinner, Yang Yang kor kor came over to play games with the kids while I wrapped presents from 9-12! Never knew wrapping to be such a tedious job!!!

Island Princess Barbie at Raffles City

Our very own Princess Meryl in her birthday outfit

It was bright and sunny today so I decided to bring the kids out to watch Island Princess with QQ at Raffles City. The kids got ready in a jiffy but Jo was grouching about how it was a waste of the sun to dry clothes cos she had to keep them incase it rains and she's not here to collect. We arrived at about 1115 and immediately went to have our lunch. Vic and QQ arrived 15 mins later.

The musical was really good. It even had live band! The cast was strong and vocals powerful. The only thing lacking was action. Last year's dancing princess was full of dancing and drama. Anyway Meryl kept asking where was the princess and when I pointed out the lady in white, she insisted that it was only a 'beautiful auntie' as she wasn't in her princess costume yet.The kids enjoyed themselves and Meryl fell asleep in the cab after all the excitement.

During naptime today, Kyle raised a very good question. 'Mummy why you always so angry?' He then added that daddy always so happy but I am always so angry. I asked him what will make me happy and he said he doesn't know. I told him that eating fast will make me happy, taking care of his sister will make me happy and doing his work will make me happy. Can he make me happy and not angry? I know that I am not the best company to have around but I get so upset with him every time and it's hard to smile and not get angry despite the countless resolutions I've made to be nicer to him. I remembered my conversation with the hubby yesterday . He said that that we shouldn't restrict the children too much and just let them be. But do kids know what's best for them? If we don't discipline them, who will? We were unable to reach a consensus on this.

Tonight was the night the floodgate opened. Kyle was insisting on Little Einstein which starts at 6 but I told him that he had already watched 2 shows and now was time for dinner. He refused and was whining. I then negotiated with him that I will let him watch on the computer after he has finished his dinner but he was adamant and tried snatching the remote from me. He was being very unreasonable and after a few attempts at talking nicely to him, I caved in. I went for the cane and I whacked...and I whacked....and I whacked.... I ordered him to his room and stipulated that he is to have no tv tonight and whole of tomorrow. His grandma interceded for him and gave him his dinner. Here I am at the computer but the blood still boils when I hear the grandma asking him to chew his food. Uuurghhh....why why why can't he eat faster!!!!!

After his dinner, I had a 'debrief' with him. I asked him how tonight's incidence could have been averted. He was still evasive and did not want to admit his mistake. In the end, it boiled down to just 2 words that he could have used in order to save his skin, watch his favorite show and still go out with me. The 2 words are, 'Yes, mummy.' Simple but to a head-strong boy like Kyle, it's the hardest words to mouth.

That night he was barred from going out. Went Hougang Mall with Meryl and grandma. Meryl basked in our attention. While waiting for the lift at the lift lobby, she sang her favorite Hokkien song.

Daddy's Home!

12/18/2007 Wed

The hubby is coming back today. Time to get the fridge stocked up again. The maid and I had been living on leftovers the past few days and the kids had their fill of noodles and pastas but now that The Hubby is back, he is going to need real food. The menu today is fish head curry and black glutinous rice with ice-cream for dessert. All his favorite. Reckoned that I need to give him something to look forward to. So in the morning, we all marched downed to NTUC at Rivervale Mall.

After an hour, we had filled up one trolley full of food to last us the rest of the week. Then we proceeded to Mac's for a little treat for the kids. French Fries! while I shopped some more. Managed to get nice and cheap socks, a table cloth and a belt. The it was up the free shuttle heading home. Kyle kicked up a fuss again when it was time for his cold noodles, something that he requested for earlier. It made my blood boil when he does things like that. Giving him what he wants and he making it difficult. I railed at him which made him cry and me angrier at each passing second. He finally went to his chair after I almost burst a vein. I was telling myself.' one of these days he's going to get it really hard from me!' and entertained thoughts of a beating so hard that he will not dare do it again... and I fear for him and myself should I let the floodgate open.

After their nap, the kids watched the 12 dancing princess and I went to pick up their dad. The kids were still stuck at the dining table when we arrived home and despite their dad's presence, they continued to eat slowly...sigh.... MY patience is running out ...

Another Rainy Day

It reminded me of the predicament of the 2 kids in Dr Seuss' story, "The Cat in the Hat'. It was too wet to go out, it was too cold to play ball, so we sat in the house and did nothing at all'. My poor kids were stuck in the house whole of yesterday and today, it seemed to be the case.. again. While my maid bemoaned the fact that none of her clothes are going to dry today, the children seemed resigned to staying indoor. They watched their usual diet of Little Einstein and HigglelyTown Heroes, then played with whatever they laid their hands on and duly have their lunch and then read a little before napping. Today Kyle refused to nap again, so I let him do his own reading and play on his own. After I woke up from my own nap, they were playing 'doggie' game with Meryl acting as the dog and Kyle pulling her on a 'leash'. After dinner, we rushed to Meryl's ballet mate's house to measure her feet for the shoes and the kids had a great time there. NEW TOYS!! After that they went home and I rushed for my meeting.

1st Ballet Lesson

Meryl with Casey

8/12/2007 Sat

Meryl went for her 1st proper ballet lesson today after we drove her dad to the airport. She wore her leotards and her tutu and looked SOOOOO cute! The class was very small, only 2 other girls and a little boy (trial). She was very sticky to me after I told her that I cannot be in the room with her today. Luckily a sweet solved the problem and she became the most attentive student. The girls got a lot of attention as the class was small and Meryl enjoyed herself very much.

Went to Jalan Kayu with Uncle Ryan, Auntie Jennifer, 3rd Grandaunt, grandma and Tagu. Had a feast of Malay food before heading home for mahjong. The kids slept and after their dinner went over to stay at their granddad's place. Meryl was thrilled but still remembered that she needed to 'keep me company'. I told her that her mission is to look after her kor kor then she happily nodded and left.

The next morning, they feasted on Macdonald's breakfast and went to see the lights at Orchard in the evening. They were totally exhausted by the time they returned home at 10.

Poor Mummy

The hip got worse and I was walking with a limp. It affected the whole neck area as well and I had to stay home, as did the girl. So whilst the brother was out at Sentosa, riding cable cars, visiting wax museum and underwater world, my girl and I watched cartoons, read books and played online games.

She was such a dear. The only thing she asked of me was to sit down with her to watch the cartoon in the morning because 'Nobody watching with me. and to read her some books.

In the afternoon after lunch, while seated at the computer and after a talk with her brother on the phone, Meryl and I had a conversation that went like this:

Me : Mummy so saaaad...kor kor does not want to come home.
M : Don't be sad ok, I'm here.
Me : Why? Why kor kor doesnt want to come home?
Meryl thought for a while and tried to come up with an answer...finally she said this:
M : Because mummy always scold kor kor.
Me : Mummy also scold you, you still want to stay with me? Or you want to stay with Tagu?
M : I stay here with you...you don't be sad.. I keep you company, ok? I take care of you.

Heart warmed and smiles spilled... hugs and cuddles...and resolution to scold the kids less..

In the evening after the hubby had taken his dinner, we went over to 'visit' our son. We found him having fun in the shower with Jay. After his shower, we tried to strike up a conversation with him but to no avail. He persistently asked to watch Tom and Jerry. Only Jay was answering the questions. My son was Not interested in talking he only wants his TV. When it was time to leave, both parties were amicable...my son did not ask to go back with us and my girl did not ask for her brother to go home. ( she did mention earlier that kor kor never come home, she can sleep with me, is it?)

While mummy was away

5-6/12/2007 Wed and Thurs

I decided to take a break for myself since the hubby was going to be away next week for 5 days. I went Jb to re-charge and re-invent my working wardrobe. Although it was a mere 1 night, the hubby was most unagreeable citing leaving the children alone as reason that I SHOULD NOT go. The most inopportune thing to happen was my girl coming down with a cough and runny nose before I left (likely due to the long swim in icy cold waters on Sunday evening) Nonetheless, I went ahead, putting them in my maid's good hands and calling ever so often back to check on them!

They spent an uneventful day at home on Wednesday and had their grandma to play with in the afternoon and their dad who came back early in the evening to keep them company. Meryl woke up at 11pm and threw up a lot of phelgm and then slept fitfully for the night.

The next day the hubby sent Kyle to his Tagu's house as she had taken 2 days off to bring the kids out. According to her, Kyle and his cousin Jay had a rolling good time together so much so that they decided to also stay there for 2 weeks! The highlight of the day for them was the Night Safari outing which ended at 12 midnight. Meanwhile I returned from my shopping trip and spent the night with my girl and hubby. I pulled a tendon near my hip area and was nursing the 'broken' hip.

Angels and devils

This morning, the kids were angels. After their breakfast, Kyle wanted to watch TV but I told him that Little Einsteins is only at 1030 so he asked to play jigjaw puzzles on the computer. He entertained the little sister for half an hour before going for his bath which by then was time for his fave show. They watched it till 11am followed by Higglely town Heroes and then did not complaint when I switch the TV off. Then I suggested doing some reading which they readily agreed. Then it was 12pm, time for my lunch cum meeting with some new colleagues.

The kids had lunch at the same time as us but in the kitchen. After lunch Kyle and Meryl did the glass art painting without disturbing us. When they had finished, they played by themselves in the room until it was time for their nap. They really were seen but not heard and we could conduct our meeting in peace. At 3.35, Kyle woke up and watched tv followed by Meryl at 4. Our meeting ended fruitfully at 4.30.

To reward them, I did some more outlines of the glassart painting for them while they played with their toys. It was then the unfortunate incident happened. In the next room, Meryl suddenly cried very loudly. We all rushed into the room to see her lips bleedly badly from a deep cut. Apparently she had fallen down while trying to climb up the bunkbed with her hands full. Instead of showing her sympathy, I chided her for her her negligence. Despite her cries, I put her in her punishment corner and queried her on her action. She admitted that she was in the wrong. After we stopped the bleeding she was given a cold teething ring to reduce the swell. The we revisit the video that I took on "Bunkbed rules" (can be found on youtube). She dared not make any more noise after that and was still game to go playground.

According to Jo, she finished her dinner very fast despite the swollen lips and had no problem eating. But each time I see the wound, my heart cringe and I feel the pain for her. Even her father when he came back was wincing, ' Aiyoh, so poor thing!' ever so often that evening. Of course she had to sleep with me tonight despite Kyle vehement protests. He tried very hard to reason with us that they both should sleep with us but I told him that Meryl wasn't feeling well. It took quite a while to get him to back off even though he was told that tomorrow will be his turn...sigh... I believe next time when they grow up, they will be fighting over the exact opposite!

Skate Scooter

03/11/2007 Mon

The kids spent a lazy morning at home watching tv, playing along corridors then lunch followed by their nap. The highlight of today was at the playground where Meryl tried out her new scooter. They were very excited and asked to put on their helmets and wore their track shoes. Meryl was still very unfamiliar with how to skate while Kyle was far far ahead of us. In the end, she stood on her scooter and I pulled her all the way to the playground. We stayed for about an hour and they left reluctantly as all their friends were still there.

Ballet Trial lesson

2/11/2007 Sun

Morning was a mad rush...the kids were eating their breakfast so slowly, I just realised that the RC organised Kampong Spirit (which I bought 7 tickets) was today and Meryl's ballet trial was at 1015. We managed to get the kids showered and ready by 10 afterwhich Jo went to collect the gifts and snacks and I collected Raine to go for ballet. Luckily Tim agreed to drive us over.

The 2 girls were so excited about the lesson. They did not hesitate at all when the class started although Meryl kept asking to wear the leotard that looks sooooo cute! Both of them followed very closely to the teacher's instructions initially but soon Meryl's attention waned and she began her mischiefs, like looking around, hopping and calling out to me. Halfway through the lesson, Kerise, another neighbour's kid warmed up and also joined them. 5 min before the lesson ended, Amy arrived and Raine refused to dance anymore and Meryl followed suit. We signed them up for Sat classes and then headed home.

After the kids' nap, we went to fil's place where the kids swam. After dinner Tim and I went out to do grocery shopping at NTUC Xtra for 1 and half hours. We left fil's place only at 10. The kids had their milk , washed up, reviewed their behaviour and went to bed. It was kyle's turn to sleep with us tonight. He asked a lot of questions about good birds and bad birds tonight which I half-heartedly attempted to answer until the dad came in and gave the ultimatum. No more Noise!

Visiting Day

01/12/2007 Sat

Kyle was not home and the whole morning was so peaceful. Sort of missed his noise! We took our time getting ready before we popped over to Dominic's place. When we reached there, he was busy watching a show. I helped Amy with some editing then at about 11ish, popped down to Koufu with the 2 kids to buy lunch up. Dominic's roasted chicken was a success and the kids also enjoyed their macaroni. At about 1 plus, we wanted to get the kids back for their nap but Kyle simply refused to bulge saying that he's staying at Ta jiu's place for a week. It took much coaxing plus threats to make him leave. I believe that the main reason is that Tajiu gives in to his every demand whereas at home he does not get much leeway with his autocratic parents.

After our nap, we left for 3rd grandaunt's house for dinner. Our initial plan was to go Orchard to see the lights after but ended up playing mahjong while the kids watched 'Cat in the Hat'. We ended at about 9.30.

Conversation with Meryl 3

01/12/2007 Sat

Before we went to ta jiu's house.

M : Mummy, go out cannot bring toys, right?
Me : Yes, that's right, who taught you that?
M : I teach myself.

At the carpark.

M : Daddy I want to sit in front.
Me : No, no sit behind with mummy.
M : I promise I will not touch anything.
Dad : Okay, you be a good girl.

In the car.

Me : If you want to sit in front, you must buckle up yourself.

Meryl pulling the seatbelt and managed to buckle it herself.

M : See! I know how to buckle up.
Me: Wow, very good. Who taught you?
M : I taught myself...I am a BIG girl.
M: Daddy I want to read map (road directory).

She 'studied' the directory for the next 6 min until we reached the carpark.

M: I don't want already...my head very giddy.
Daddy was surprised that she knows what giddiness is.

Clayworks and Photo frames

30/11/2007 Fri

Kyle and Meryl were excited. Today their friends were coming over to do some claywork. Meryl helped me get up the mahjong papers on the wall for the kids to mess around with. At 10am, Belle and Joel arrived and they had some snacks before they began. Kyle monopolised the spray paint while Belle diligently colored the pictures that her mom drew for her.

At about 11, QQ came and we all got ready to do clay painting. The children started well, tyring to manipulate the brushed but the boys very soon lost interest and went to play with toy cars. Next to go was QQ then my girl and it ended up with the mummies salvaging the mess for them. But at least it was therapeutic for us and we too had fun. The kids then watched Little Einsteins together before having their lunch. Annette, Siew Luan's baby joined us at about 12. After lunch the kids continued playing till about 2 before they left.

After the kids' nap which was very short due to some renovation work upstairs, they had a quick dinner before Ta jiu came to fetch us to Tampines to buy Meryl's present. We had dinner then proceeded to Toys R us where Meryl chose a Pink scooter as her present. On the way back, Kyle decided that he wanted to stay at Ta jiu's house. He even suggested staying there for 1 week and then changed his mind, saying he wanted 8 weeks! The main reason I think is to escape punishment for his bad behavior tonight. Anyway, we packed his things and he happily left.

No TV Day

29/11/2007 Thurs

Kyle was barred from watching today whole day. Reason? He was rude to me when I tried to change channels the previous night. As the punishment was meted out by the dad who takes a Very serious view on rudeness, he meekly accepted. According to helper, he did not fuss about no tv and both of them played by themselves in the morning, busy with playdoh and scooter.

After their nap, we went on what Meryl called 'a mission'. Our mission today was to jog to Meryl's new Dance school at the CC. First we had to cross the road, then run across the field and walked by the river. Mission Completion! (Little Einsteins fans will know what I'm writing about) On the way back, we plucked some flowers to make dried flowers to make into cards. The children were Most enthusiastic about it...esp Meryl, who stopped and stopped and I had to shout and shout to get her moving!

Our plans to Giant was scrapped and instead we did the Christmas tree lightup. The kids were thrilled esp with one of the functions. The lights lit up and then fade. We jokingly told them that to blow the 'candles' and they had So much fun doing just that. When the lights fade away after they blew at it, they laughed and jumped around before the next round. Then we watched a documentary on sharks before the kids 'fought' about whose turn is it to sleep in our room.

Elmo's World

28/11/2007 Wed

Today the kids and I went to visit their granddad at the nursing home. Despites their various attempts to wake him, he remained fast asleep, oblivious to their singing and shoutings. I decided to bring them to Takashimaya since we were already out. Meryl slept on the train until we reached the event hall at basement 2. Kyle and I went to buy lunch and some groceries while Jo stood in the queue.

We had a fantastic view of the stage and the kids were most excited. 10 mins before the show started, a 'magician' (so he claimed) came on stage to try and work the crowd. He chose 4 boys, one of whom was Kyle, to go on stage to compete. They were supposed to shout 'I love Sesame Street' and try to hold the last note for as long as they could. Kyle and another bigger boy won the 1st round and in the finals, Kyle held the note for 9 seconds and beat the other boy who managed to sustain only 6s. He recieved a balloon 'garland' and a balloon Elmo sculpture. He was very pleased with himself. (go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27Tj5czXa74 to watch him on stage). The show was really good and they sang about 5 songs featuring Elmo, Ernie, Bert and Cookie Monster. We will definitely be back for more!!

On the way back, Jo and myself had to keep the kids awake as it was already past 2. Even though Meryl had slept earlier, she still wanted to sleep. After their milk, they went straight to bed. Kyle woke up only at 5 and Meryl slept 3 and a half hours till 6.20pm!

As usual they took a long time eating their dinner especially Meryl tonight. Our earlier plan was to go Giant but changed it to Karaoke night. The kids had a great time singing to their favorite tunes on the microphone. They then watched Tom and Jerry and an episode of Noddy before we sat down to give out smiley faces and black Xes. Kyle got 3 Xes for disturbing Meryl and being rude to me and he also forfeit the chance to sleep in our room tonight as tonight was his turn. Meryl was given the privilege but she chose in the end to sleep with her brother in their bunkbed. ( she also 'lectured' and comforted her brother when he was being punished)

Conversations with Meryl (Part 2)

As recounted to me :

1) After one of their swim at Granddad's house, Tagu showered the kids as we weren't around. As they had just shifted into the new place, the baby shower gel was missing and she used the shampoo to wash the kids hair as well as their body. Kyle did not notice anything different but when it came to Meryl's turn, she asked, " Tagu why are you using shampoo to bathe me?" Tagu was amused and her reply was, " Because you are so hairy!"

2) At the resort in Chiang Mai one afternoon

The kids woke up from their nap and Tagu attempted to tie meryl's hair. She tried looking for a comb but to no avail (as it was with me and I was out enjoying!). In the end, she tried sometihing innovative. She found a plastic fork which she used to divide Meryl's hair and then combed it. Meryl's question to her, "Tagu, why are you using a fork to comb my hair??!!"

3) Grocery shopping with Tagu alone

In the car, Meryl tried to strike up a conversation.

M: Tagu, I don't look like you.

J : Why you don't look like me?

M: I look like my daddy...

M: because I very hairy!!!!

Dora the Explorer

27/11/2007 Tues

The sky was ominous looking and our plans of taking train was dashed. Instead I found myself having to call for a cab and found none even after 2 attempts of calling. In the end managed to get an Smrt cab and found out that it was pouring all over Singapore except in Sengkang.

We reached United Square at 11.10 and while waiting for Vic and QQ, the kids played with the lights on the floor where they try to catch the images. After they arrived, we went out to see the Xmas tree and then went to have lunch. The last time we came here together was last year for the Barney Show and we had forgotten how it was like. Only after lunch we realised our mistake; we should have sent Umi to queue earlier. In the end, we went to have ice-cream at Ben and Jerry on the 3 rd level and had a bird's eye view of the show.

Meryl fell straight asleep as usual once we boarded the taxi and woke up for milk when we reached home. Kyle refused to sleep and played with his toys and read books. Tagu joined us for dinner and we watched Goerge of the Jungle on cable. The kids played on their scooters and bicyles outside the corridor but headed back at 9 to watch their favorite show, Tom and Jerry. At bedtime, Meryl refused to let me go and wanted me to stay in the room with her. In the end I let her sleep in our room where she fell asleep contentedly.

A day at the Zoo

26/11/2007 Mon

A visit to the zoo with parents; boring. A visit to the zoo with friends; explosive! The zoo outing today with Zachery and Cheryl and the 3 mommies was anything but boring. The kids had so much fun with their friends around and Meryl at one point just had to boast to her brother, ' I go zoo with MY friends!'

We started off from home at 9am with a very excited and impatient Zac waiting down stairs. Chery and Mom had to take a cab there themselves. We took a group picture at the entrance and then began our adventure. Our first task was to look out for the False Gharials( crocodile) which Zac was persistently asking for but we couldn't see any. Then we proceeded to see Meryl's favorite, otters. Fortunately for her, they were wide awake and basking in the sun and pool. We then took the tram to Fragile Forest where Kyle 'rescued' a butterfly and then chased the whistling ducks. After that, we had to quickly catch the tram again to be on time for the Splash Show by the sea lion, on request of Cheryl. We managed to get some seats and the children snacked while waiting for the show to start. Kyle and Meryl and Cheryl were also dancing to the music!

After the show, we went back to Children's World where the kids stripped to their underwear(actually mine started first) and frolicked at the water play area. According to Zac and Cheryl's mom, this was the 1st time they actually played in the water, although Zac did a good job of not getting his hair wet. They had a splashing good time of about 45 mins, after which they changed and got ready for lunch at KFC which was timely as the rain poured. There was an incident of a little Indian boy who came to our table and snatched a piece of Zac's pop chicken. The irony was when Cheryl offered to give the boy the chicken , the mother replied that he's vegetarian! He didn't stop crying for about 5 mins after the mom pulled him away. Poor boy!

The rain stoppped and we dropped by the pigmy hippo and white tiger enclosure before we left. It was by then 1.30. Meryl fell asleep almost immediately in the cab but woke up for milk when we reached home and slept again till 5pm. Then it was playground time followed by dinner and some disney channel programs whilst the parents went out for their own program.

Trekking at Bukit Timah

25/11/2007 Sun

I had to will myself to wake up today at 7.30am. We were going to Bukit Timah Hill today. I woke Meryl from her dreams at about 7.45am by whispering 'Bukit Timah' and immediately her eyes were wide open. While I was changing her, she said to me, 'Mummy, I slept so long today, right?' and I told her 'no' to which she answered, 'because you woke me up.' I ended up apologising to her! When she was all dressed, she told me this.'Mummy, can you hold my hand and bring me to the toilet and help me brush my teeth (verbatim).' I was very amused as she really put in effort to construct the sentence whole. Of course, I obliged since she put it so well together.

We reached Bt Timah Hill at about 9 and began our ascent. We took the Rock path today and was treated to a very challenging terrain with lots of rocks and boulders. The kids had fun climbing them and not a single complaint was heard. We took about 2 hours with 2 breaks in between to have some breakfast and finish some business (for Meryl). It was an enjoying time and a good workout for all.

After lunch, we had to pick up Jo and buy some groceries for tonight's dinner. Kyle went with us while Meryl was sleeping. When we reached home, she woke up and it was her turn to go shopping with Ta Gu while the rest sleeps.

Cousin Jay and Jon arrrived at 5 plus and the Movie Marathon began! They watched Curious George followed by Mr Bean's Holiday and then Transformer. It kept the kids entertained while the adults also entertained their 2 guests. By the time, we left Granddad's house, it was already 10. Another long day and late night.

Alex's (Er Jiu's) Birthday

23/11/2007 Sat

Today we celebrated Er Jiu's birthday at a Toa Payoh restaurant. The kids had an assortment of food as I want them to try out different things instead of always having ee fu noodles at such places. Surprisingly, they ate most of the things given to them, chee cheong fun, carrot cake, glutinous rice, fish dumplings, char siew pau etc. After lunch, we headed to the library just next door to borrow some books and then went home for their nap. The kids were kept entertained on the way back with tales of lizards, hippos and chicken

I attended the soft launch of the new Anchorvale CC while the kids nap and signed Meryl up for a ballet course. It was such a god-sent that the dance school is now just a mere 5 mins away from my place and I need not waste time ferrying her to classes. We headed for the Yacht Club for a swim and then had dinner with their granddad and Auntie. The highlight of the evening was the Karaoke where the 2 of them sang their Hokkien song to the amazement of the audience. The kids were so thrilled to hear themselves singing instead of the singer and they sang very Loudly. It was 10 by the time we left and Kyle was so worn out by then.

On Their Own

23/11/2007 Fri

The kids was left to their own devices today as I was out whole day for a conference. According to my helper they were angels especially Kyle who finished his lunch and dinner very quickly today. They had their share of artwork, reading and TV today. After their nap, they headed for their usual haunt, the playground and played with Krishna.

After dinner, Kyle was granted permission (finally!) to play on his new scooter. He was delighted and couldn't wait for Meryl to finish her dinner. He called daddy many times to counteract my decision but in the end, I prevailed. He had fun on his scooter whilst Meryl play with her little car. They also took turns learning to skate onthe scooter.

Our neighbours were back on holiday from England and we had a good time catching up. The kids played for a good 1 half hrs before we shooed them back to shower and get ready for bed.

Downtown East

21/11/2007

It was a cold windy Wednesday morning. Perfect day for an outing.

8.55am - All dressed up and waiting at the bus-stop
9.00am - Auntie Cheryl and Zachery arrived and kids had fun playing around the sculptures.
9.30am- GAve up waiting for the free shuttle bus and took 372 instead
9.50am - Boarded bus 89. Zac and Kyle fought for their seat.
10.10am - Arrived at Downtown East
10.20am - Kids checked into the PLAY GYM and mothers promptly proceeded to have their cuppa.
11.00am- Booked the venue for Meryl's 3rd birthday celebration on 18/12
11.20am - Hanged around the kiddy rides while I exhanged my points for a set of boxes.
11.45am - Boarded double decker 89 heading home for lunch. Meryl slept.

Children had lunch and napped till 4+. Did some artwork and headed for playground.

7.30pm- Finished dinner and shower
8.00pm- arrived at Giant with TaGu and met Daddy.
9.00pm-Home Sweet Home

Kyle received 4 black Xes for misbehaviour and Meryl received 4 smiley faces.

On Smiley Faces

20/11/2007 Tues

Tonight we totalled up the number of smiley faces each child got since last Wednesday. Kyle got a total of 22 smileyf aces while Meryl had only 13. This was by far the most they had received within one week since we started the reward system about 2 months ago. The kids receive a smiley face sticker for everything they do right and a Black X for every wrong deed committed. Initially the plan was to reward them with a present for every 10 faces received and punishment for every 5 black Xes per week but it seemed difficult to get any presents as they have as many number of Xes as smiley faces. Now we give them 20cts for each smiley faces and deduct 20cts for each Xes.

This worked out to be $4 for kyle this week ( 22 :) - 2X = 20) and $2 for Meryl (13:) - 3X=10). This high number of smiley faces for Kyle was partly due to his dad giving him 5 :0) for his excellent report from school on his behaviour and performance. Kyle was so excited and kept asking me what he can buy with the money. I told him to accumulate more smiley faces in order to get a bigger present. This system seemed to be working much better now than in the beginning.

Below is a list of some of the things he did this week:

Eating lunch fast
Teaching Meryl to read
sharing snacks with Meryl
Massaging mummy
Read Hop on Pop on his own
taking care of baby at the playground
Behaving well whilst mum and dad are busy
helped to carry food up to give to the poor
Sat still while cutting hair
washing own plates and cups
jogged with mummy
observed safety when on the road - held hands
eating dinner fast
doing well in school

Meryl's Playgroup Graduation

19/11.2007 Fri

Meryl 'graduated' today amidst much fanfare. Today was her last day at her Appletree Playgroup and they had a party. There were snacks aplenty, much to the children's delight, especially Meryl's. Jay and Lincoln also gave out paty packs to all the children, a double bonus for them.

The party started with the Graduation Ceremony whereby the Vice-chairman of the RC gave out the certificates. Some kids had to be cajoled to get theirs while others like Meryl went readily up to receive theirs and gave a well-rehearsed bow at the end. After the ceremony, they gave a performance before heading for the snacks!!! Meryl was most obviously the shortest in class as she was almost a full one year behind most of her classmates born in the beginning of the year.

After the party, we headed for Zachary's house where the kids continued to have fun together while the moms get together to chat.

At Auntie Queenie's

20/11/2007 Tues

Today's plan was to go Auntie Queenie's pace for Montessori with Belle and Joel. When we reached there, there were another 3 boys present with a mother. They were busy playing with the instruments. Kyle and Meryl were told the rules and they quickly settled in . Kyle was easily bored and flitted from one to another but Meryl was very focused on each task she chose to do. They took a break at about 10.30 for light snacks before they started to explore the house. Kyle was intrigued with the cats. I spotted 3 but was told there are 4. Joel's granny read them a book entitled 'The very hungry caterpillar' and then the boys went to climb on a tall structure, all trying to balance themselves. Only Meryl continued doing her task. Her favorite was pouring water from a teapot into little cups and cleaning the mirror! We left at about 11.40 and the kids had lunch and played a little on the computer before they went for their nap.

At about 5 after Meryl woke, we all got ready for our jog. Today's mission was to spot for frogs in the field across our house. Unfortunately we didn't see any but the kids found another mission. They 'rescued' snails by placing them back on the field in case they get stepped on. We headed for Compasspoint library to return and borrow some books. We bought some donuts from Breadtalk as Missy Donut's queue was too long and then shared a large fries from Mos Burger before heading for home. Despite their diligence, we still did not spot any frogs. Kyle complained that it was still too early and that he wanted to follow daddy to jog cos it is late in the evening and he is sure to spot one. I reminded him that he will not be able to keepup with daddy as he jogs very long.

I doubt they will be interested in jogging tomorrow cos they said that their legs are very 'painful' and they don't like to 'perspire'...sigh..

Kyle's Holiday Resolutions

Yesterday after dinner, Kyle asked to wash the dishes. He did a good job of it and was given a smiley face (each smiley face gets him 20cts).
He also set the rule that since it is now holiday time, he will take turns with Meryl to sleep in our room cos during school time, they only get to sleep with us during the weekends. The previous night before the rule was set, he faked stomach ache as an excuse to sleep with us but was exposed and thereafter he thought of the new rule. Last night he willingly let Meryl sleep in our room whilst he slept in his own bed.
He also volunteered to go jogging with me and yesterday was our first. We jogged all the way to Fernvale and then took a free shuttle halfway back and then walked home. Tonight we will jog to CompassPoint to return our books then across the field back..ie..if weather permits. The kids and I will try to jog at least twice a week.
We will also go to Auntie Queenie's place once a week for montessori play and have Meryl's playgroup come over once a week to play.
There are also plans to go Sentosa, Animal Resort, Zoo, Downtown East, Cycling, and beach with some SAHMs. Hopefully these 50 days will get by without me pulling out all my hair!!

The 'Heat' is on!

1-4/02/07

The last time that Kyle fell so ill was in Aug/Sept 2005 when his cough developed into broncholitis. I had 'almost' forgotten how stressful times like this can be especially when Meryl also caught the bug. Apparently he had caught the bug from school as I found out that some kids were down as early as 2 weeks ago. As for Meryl, her teacher also reported sick for 2 days and some of her classmates were also visibly absent from school.

It was trying with Kyle's temperature fluctuating up and down between 38.5 and 39.5 and sometimes rising to 40 degree celsius as well as a bad cough and runny nose. Meryl's condition was much better with runny nose and very slight temperature. The nights were for me a state between mind being awake and the body asleep. I had to moniter Kyle's temperature and sponge him when the heat is up. And it was up, for both of us!

Below is a list of new routines set during this period of time and may it be far few and in between in future:

1. Waking up in the middle of the night to give baths.
2. Patting the back each time a cough surface.
3. Checking on the temperature every half and hour (Btw, the batteries are already running low)
4. Mentol rubs on chest and back EVERY night before they sleep.
5. Request for tummy massage with oil EVERY nightbefore bedtime as miraculously their tummy will be painful.
6. Return of Tub baths with all their toys in it
7. Porridge with pork floss
8. Macaroni with soup
9. Apple juice in the morning and more apples in the course of the day.
10. Putting Karvol on their stuff toys to help ease their breathing.
11. Watching Kipper and Strawberry Shortcake ( And Soccer!)
12. Playing Boowa and Kwala on the computer
13. Reading Curious George and more Curious George (Poor me!)
14. Wearing socks at home
15. Using Kleenex 4-ply toilet roll to clean their noses (cheaper and softer than tissues!)
16. Diluted milk
17. Catching 'Prison Break' during whatever free time I had
18. Deciding to give Brufen or Panadol each time the fever goes up, silomat or promethazine for cough and chlormine or actified for their runny nose (Tough job being Dr Quacked )
19. Digging out dried mucus with cotton buds! (Yucks, but the kids loved it!)

It was like on a battle field combating against the unseen enemies. It is most unfortunate that their father was also in a battle field while on reservist, leaving me with Josephina to hold the fort. Talk about bad timing!

Night Antics

03/02/07

9 pm. It was bedtime for the kids at the Tan's residence. The kids were busy playing "soccer" with a little rubber ball on the platform bed. I finished my shower and announced that it was time for bed. Kyle enquired if his sister can sleep with him in the same room and I agreed. He happily volunteered to bring his sister's pillow and blanket and monkey into our room. Meryl had already settled herself comfortably on the bed drinking her milk.

After everything was properly laid out, it was Storybook time. Tonight, we read " Curious George takes a job". Both pairs of eyes were glued to the book but midway, Meryl lost interest. Then it was lights out.

"Mummy, my tummy pain..can you massage for me?"
" I want. I want massage."
Rubbed both their tummies with oil and did their favorite "poot" position.

" Mummy, can you pat my back?"
" I want pat back! I want pat back!"
Pat their backs and massage some more.

"OK, sleeping time...no more noise!"

Silence ensued followed by some shufflings.....

" I want shee shee! I want shee shee."
"You sure? Ok. Tita bring."

Came back smiling but did not pass urine. Again an Excuse for not sleeping.

"Ok, no more talking now! Meryl lie down on your bed."

Meryl took her balnket and tried covering her monkey with it. Then she got up again.

"Strawberry Shortcake. Where my Shortcake?" ( Stood up on bed, gesticulating)
"No, monkey only. Shortcake sleeping already."
"Shortcake sleeping? O..K..." (Back to bed)

More scolding ensued when they continued talking and turning around.

Suddenly, Meryl stood up.

"I go take cane. I go take cane." She has remembered that usually when they sleep together, I will use the cane when they start talking. She went out and asked for the cane.

By then, it was almost 10.15pm. Kyle was almost falling asleep whereas Meryl, who had slept twice in the day, was still wide awake. She was still in a mood to talk.

Suddenly, she stood up and whispered softly.
" I sleep Tita's room. I sleep Tita's room."

Despite much persuasion, she decided in the end to sleep in her own room after all. She dragged with her her blanket, her monkey and her water bottle and I followed close behind with her pillow. Kyle woke up and also came into her room, asking for me to sleep with him.

10.45pm. Peace at last.

Vanity, thy name is Meryl

26/01/07

It was Monday evening and we were getting ready to go Father's house for dinner. Kyle has just woken up from his nap and Meryl had to be changed. I selected a pink, sleeveless dress with pokka dots for the evening. As soon as she saw the dress, she cried, 'My one, my one!' To which I replied,' No, its mummy's one.' She threw into a short fit and tried to snatch it from me. In the end, I stopped taunting her and changed for her.

After wearing it, she lifted the edge of the skirt and started spinning round and round. Then following my instructions, she put both her hands on her waist and shook her backside. Then she put one hand on her waist and another on her head and gave a little jiggle. She looked sooooo cute and adorable. This is another dress that she wore and posed on a different day

After posing, she headed to the living room and started pulling at the toy chests' drawers. She managed to dig out her barbie doll bag with all her mirrors, brush and sunglasses which she hung expertly on her left arm and then she tried to pull open the top drawer. I told her that she already had her barbie doll bag but she insisted. I opened for her and she indicated that she wanted the Little Pony slingbag. Puzzled, I gave it to her. She then slung it across her shoulders whilst carrying her little handbag. Then she put on her pink sunglasses. She looked quite a sight! Satisfied at last, she went to wear her pink slippers with tiny pink flowers and we went down to the life lobby where their ta gu was waiting.

Sigh....Only 2 years old....how will she be like when she grows up?

All dolled up to go out on a Sunday

Posing in a new outfit bought by Ta Gu

Kyle's Suggestion

29/01/2007
Since end of last year, the night routine for Kyle was for him to have his milk, brush his teeth and then storybook time before he is put into bed with hugs and kisses and then leave the door open for him as he goes to sleep. On good days, he compliantly goes to sleep all by himself without kicking too much of a fuss as he knows that I have to 'keep his daddy company' but sometimes, he will request that I stay inside with him for about 5-10 mins so that he can 'tell you about my school'. Other times, he will make his 'rounds' in the living room, asking for extra hug or kiss from his daddy or me or simply sneaking out to see what we were watching on TV.

That night, after storytime, as usual, I tucked him into bed. He asked for 10 more minutes to tell me about his school. Halfway, the conversation went something like this :

K : Mommy, can you go back to work?
Me : Why? You don't like mommy to stay at home to keep you company?
( In my heart, I was thinking if my hubby had bribed him to say that!)
K : Yes....I like mommy to stay at home...but can you go and work for a short time everyday?
Me : But why ? Mommy wants to stay home and spend time with you..
K : But I like mommy to work for a little while only..
( I was still thinking of what reasons he could have for saying that)
K : Mommy, you not tired? But I want you to sleep with me!
(Ahhhhh....that's the crunch!)

Background history:
Last year when I was still working, I will be so dead tired that by 9.30, after reading him 1 book, I will hasten him to sleep as I want to sleep myself. So we would be in bed talking about the day and more often than not, I will fall asleep before him by 10pm. This happened only when I was working, thus the request that I go back to work!

Isobel's Stayover

25-26/01/2007
It all started when Isobel wanted to follow Meryl and I home after a visit to her house. I was saying goodbye and telling them that I was going home when both Isobel and Joel also said that they wanted to 'Go home'. In the end, I took Belle home with me. That evening, she had dinner with K and M at the table and was the first to finish...all by herself. I was hoping that she will set a good example for K and M! It didn't work for K...K still took the longest time to finish and was whining and crying when I refused to let him sit at the computer with B and M who had already finished.
The kids enjoyed themselves at the Boowa and Kwala website before I whisked them off to shower. At 8, David came and drove us all to NTUC and we did our grocery till 9 plus.
The next day, I was thinking that Belle stay for dinner again then send her home at about 8. After K and B alighted from the school bus, they had a snack before I put them to bed. They were asleep within 10 minutes and woke up 2 hours later! They were treated to Kipper as it was raining and the playground was wet.
Again, at dinnertime, B was the 1st to finish followed by M and lastly K. I was having tuition with Judy all the while. After dinner, Kyle helped to navigate the Boowa and Kwala website and the kids entertained themselves. I showered them again and when it was time to send Belle home, she told me that she wanted to stay over. Her mother was informed and gave her consent. They then had their milk and storytime at about 9.30pm. By 10, they were all tucked into bed, including M who insisted on sleeping in the same room. It was Meryl, however, who was causing the most disturbance: talking to herself, tickling Belle's fingers, shouting across to her brother. In the end, I had to physically remove her from the room and back to her own.
Thankfully, by 11, they were all asleep. I woke up a few times in the night to pat Belle's back to help her get rid of the phlegm as she was coughing.
The next morning, there was a scare when she vomited twice in the morning. Once after she had her apple juice and another after I came back from the 7-11 with the 2 kids. She did not participate in the bubble game with K and M but just sat at the chair, looking forlorn. She also came to the kitchen to see us making pineapple tarts.
When her parents came, she surprised all of us by saying that she doesn't want to go back. It took a bit of persuasion + coercion to finally get her to leave. She was brought the doctor who believed that she could have caught the virus from school. Thankfully both K and M were alright although he gave me a fright when he started coughing vigorously after he woke up the next day. It was only caused by dryness of throat. Nevertheless, I quickly made the kids some honey and gave the chinese powder as a precaution.

Conversations with Meryl

Scene 1 : Kitchen, seated at the breakfast table eating noodles. Along came curious Meryl.

M : Mommy, can I sit?
Me : Yes, take a chair.
M : Mommy, can I see?
Me : Sure....noodles...mommy eating noodles.
M : Mommy eating noodles? Is it hot? Can I eat?
Me : Yes, you can have some.
( Meryl opened mouth, then closed it.)
M : Mommy, hot? Mommy blow?
( Blow the noodles )
Me : Ok, not hot now.
M : Not hot?
( Meryl slurped up the noodle)
Me : Nice? Is the noodle nice?
M : Nice.......hot hot!
Me : No...not hot
Meryl : Not hot? Can I have some more?

Scene 2 : After school at Appletree, going to 7-11 to buy newspaper. A windy day.

Me : We go 7-11 to buy newspaper ok?
M : Yes...buy newspaper?
(Wind blowing strongly)
Me: Woo...the wind is so strong...mommy is cold....
M : Mommy cold?? Wear jacket!
Me : Wear jacket? But where?
( Appeared to be thinking for a while, then smiled cheekily and pointed her index finger behind towards our block)
M : At HOME!

Scene 3: Dinner time. K and M were seated at the breakfast table eating. Both were fighting over a toy)
M : Kor kor, give me please?
K : NO! It's mine.
M : No...mine.... it's mine....
(Whined and kicked up a small fuss)
M : I want...give me!!
( Brother ignored her and continued to play with toy.)
( Whining became louder and turned into screaming. After a while....)
M : Kor Kor, stop it! NAUGHTY KOR KOR! ( repeats )
( No effects on her brother who continued to taunt her by not giving her the toy...until mommy intervened!

2nd Bukit Timah Hill Climb

07/01/2007
Today, the group expanded to include my mother, T's father, Johnny and Jay. We headed for Bukit Timah 1st thing in the morning as Jay needed to be back by 11am for his lesson.
Upon reaching, we could hear sirens coming down from the hill. Apparently someone had fainted during a walkathon that was being held there. We parked our car and launched our climb...this time without the stroller.
The 1st fright we had was when i tried to give bread to the kids. The monkey, quick as lightning, appeared right in front of M and tried to snatch it away. I would have taken it all in good stride if not for the screams that came my way by anxious family members. Despite being a small matter, I was treated to earful of scoldings from all corners.
The weather was great although the sky was overcast and it drizzled a little...but not enough to cause any panic. The boys and J took the alternate route again and M, my mom and helper took the usual. Meryl again climbed with the help of seaweeds up the top. Unfortunately, I had forgotten my camera.
We climbed down in record time and then headed for Serangoon Gardens to have our brunch before returning home for the kids' nap.

Climbing Bukit Timah Hill 1st Jan 2007

01/01/07

By the time we left the house after getting everyone ready, it was already 9+. Instead of going straight to the Hill, J suggested doing her usual routhine, ie, to have breakfast at Thomson before heading for the Hill. Again, I was concerned about the time, worrying if we would be back in time for the kids' lunch.
The Prata Place was decorated with colorful balloons, remnants of the New Year's eve celebration. K and M successfully got one each and happily settled down at the table waiting for their prata. Luckily, feeding them was easy despite them having had their breakfast of oats earlier. Still, it was ten + when we finally set off for Bukit Timah.
We were greeted by hordes of monkeys once we turned into H Drive. They were all over the car park and and on cars. The kids were obviously thrilled. Being our first time there and not knowing what to expect, we decided to push Meryl on a stroller which turned out to be a mistake.
The 1st part of the climb was the most tedious as the slope was steeply inclined. Even without Meryl in it, pushing the stroller was tedious. At the 1st rest point, my leg muscles were stretched. The journey thereafter was easy and a mere 20 minutes or so.
K was really excited and did a good job running and showed most enthusiasm. He follow J on an alternate route up a flight of steep steps to the summit whereas T, M and I ploughed on the last lag of the journey. With the use of seaweed as a lure, M successfully climbed up, all by herself, to the summit! She was rewarded a packet of cold drinks by a group of fellow Malay climbers whom K met along the way. Apparently, they were impressed that a 3 yr old boy can climbed up the steps without any complaints.

We took loads of pictures (go dotphoto) for memory keepsake before we made our way down at about 12. The kids were given snacks such as seaweeds, biscuits and cheese. The walk down was much faster and easier although we took to walking backwards on the last lag.

We met Chin Min and her family at the foot of the HIll. They were deciding whether to climb the Hill or not as she did not bring any food for the kids. I passed them some biscuits and left after we took some pictures together.
The kids went without a proper lunch today. They had their shower, drank their milk and went straight to bed for their well-deserved nap.

Feedback on Meryl

Meryl is very well-liked by the grandparents of other kids in her school. They often praised her for being so brave despite being the youngest as she adjusted very well to her new environment within a short time. They also always comment on her cute-ness as she was also the shortest in class and the most talkative. What impressed them was that she can wear slippers (the clasp-on type), she is caring ( she will always 'sayang' those who are crying) and that she is not easily bullied.

See how small she is compared to her classmates?

A grandparent who was inside during one of the lessons recounted this to me : One of the students was snatching toys from another girl even though there was plenty around. She even pulled the girl's hair. She tried doing the same to Meryl only to be pushed back and Meryl repossessing the toy and saying 'It's mine!'.
Another incident that was told me was this: Meryl was playing with the rest when she saw that one of the kids was monopolising some toys. Apparently, she watched this with interest and when the kid was not looking, she quickly took away some of the toys and gave it to another girl. The grandparent who saw this was greatly amused.

Also to her credit, Meryl is always the 1st to be seated when its time for the singing and dancing and she never fails to put up her hands when the teacher asks for volunteers. I seriously hope that this enthusiasm for school will continue throughout her school days.

Meryl's Appletree

On the 1st day of school, Meryl eased into the program without any signs of fear or anxiety. Maybe it was because I was present or maybe there were so many new things to distract her. She played with the toys, went around comforting those who were crying, colored the activity worksheet, sang and danced and followed Teacher Salmah's instruction down to her very last word. She was simply adorable (see her on youtube under 'World of Kyle and Meryl').

Meryl happily doing her work

However, in the 2nd week, albeit still excited about school, she showed signs of separation anxiety at the doorsteps just before going into class. She would cry a little and wanted me to carry her. Then when it was time for me to leave, she would wail and reached out for me...a far cry from the 1st week. The good news was that I would linger for a while outside the classroom and after about1 -2 mins, her crying would stop. According to her teacher, she only cries for a short while and then she will participate in the activities. Only periodically when she hears another kid crying will she remember and cry again.

Even then, after each lesson, I would meet her at the gate and there she will be, lined up and smiling ever so sweetly before she runs into my arms.

Meryl walking home with her good friend Kor Kor Jay Jay

On Kyle's new school

Kyle has settled very well into his new school. He goes up the bus without a fuss and has not asked me to follow him since day 3. He comes back with good reports about the fun time he has in school and what he did. My only complaint is that he refuses to take his afternoon nap after he returns at 3.45pm. For the 1st week, I gave in to him and did away with the nap. Dinner now starts at between 5 -5.30pm, finished earliest by 6.30 or 7pm. The kids get to play for an hour or so then its time for milk at 8 whereupon they are whisked into the room to get ready for bed. By 8.30 or 8.45, Meryl will be fast asleep and Kyle slightly later at 9ish. The problem comes about 1 or 1 half hour into his sleep. He will suddenly wake up crying and mumbling incoherently and most of the time, it is to relieve himself. It usually lasts for 5 mins or so then he is back to bed. I doubt he could remember what happened the next day. This continued for a week!

Last week, I decided to put my feet down and made him take a short nap after he comes back from school. I succeeded only 2 times and both times, there wasn't any episodes of night terror. I believe that the night terrors were caused by insufficient rest as he wakes up now at 7.15-7.30 instead of 8.30am, in part due to his excitement about school. I really need to re-establish the habit of napping after he returns from school. Trying but necessary.

Asleep on the school bus after a tiring day