my little #1 man

Brayen Has Sorethroat

2011-04-28T23:42:00.002+08:00

Taekwondo

2011-04-04T22:30:00.002+08:00

Out With My Boys

2011-03-26T00:05:00.002+08:00

I love the moment I look back and see my two boys making funny faces, chatting with each other. It's a moment I cherish.

Berton 4yo Birthday

2011-03-23T00:43:00.003+08:00

It's a different party. We had it at buildabear, I made 3 types of sandwiches (about 70!), prepared some yakult and bananas for the children. Berton wanted a butterfly cake and so he got it though it's against the theme and mummy Koo prefers a bear cake. He is the prince! We enjoyed it very much.

Brayen 8 months old

2011-03-16T21:20:00.003+08:00

养儿百日，长忧九十九。

2011-02-11T00:44:00.002+08:00

Do they have nutritious food?
Why is his skin so sensitive?
Why are they fighting all the time?
How to stop him from sucking thumb?
Poking his belly button? Prickling nose?
Will he be prepared for P1?
Should we move out of Singapore for less result driven education.
Brayen hasn't had his 2nd or 3rd injection.
The lighting in the study room is too dim.
He is coughing again.
They are so hyperactive.
How to stop whining?
How to not spoil them.
...

First Taste Of Food

2011-01-23T00:38:00.001+08:00

Photo Update - December 2010

2011-01-19T20:29:00.002+08:00

Brayen turns 6 months.

Photo Update - November 2010

2011-01-19T20:27:00.000+08:00

Brayen 5MO

Photo Update - September 2010

2011-01-18T23:11:00.001+08:00

Bevan's 5YO Party

Photo Update: October 2010

2011-01-18T23:10:00.002+08:00

Brayen 4MO

Photo Update: September 2010

2011-01-18T23:05:00.002+08:00

Brayen 3MO

Photo Update: August 2010

2011-01-18T23:03:00.002+08:00

Brayen 2MO

Photo Update: July 2010

2011-01-18T22:59:00.002+08:00

Brayen 1MO

Photo Flash Back - June 2010

2011-01-18T22:58:00.002+08:00

Photo Flash Back - May 2010

2011-01-12T20:46:00.003+08:00

Sports Day

Bevan was an independant darling. Berton would not let go of my hands. So I ran together with him, carrying a big 35-week tummy. I saw parents snapping pictures of their children, and me.

Photo Flash Back - April 2010

2011-01-10T20:45:00.005+08:00

I was a huge 30-weeker. I was perspiring quite a bit in Singapore, especially after a soupy meal. I desperately wished for a break, and to bring the children to somewhere, to show them that though Mummy was sick, Mummy still love them. The nearest and the most accessible was Genting.

The children really enjoyed the theme parks. That was the first time they played in theme parks, and the first time they experience a weather colder than 20 degrees. So they were really excited. We stayed at First World Hotel, and we love that it was within walking distance to the theme park. In the afternoon when we were tired, we just walked back to the hotel for a nap.

At night, we sneaked out after they were asleep to the casino. I remember we won RM86, bought each other supper with half of the winning.

Photo Flash Back - March 2010

2011-01-10T20:39:00.004+08:00

Berton's 3 years old birthday.

We invited his classmates. We saw his best friends Ashlyn, Keira, Josh and Matthew. Berton has always been a little more shy than his brother, so it's really sweet to see my little shy darlings playing with his best friends.

My cousins were surprised to see that I was pregnant with baby 3. The first time I announce to friends and relative about my pregnancy, which I had kept it due to the uncertainty.

I remember feeling more relieved and I was enjoying the party.

Photo Flash Back - Feb 2010

2011-01-10T20:34:00.004+08:00

Chinese New Year.

We spent it with my in-laws in Singapore, my parents went overseas. My tummy was starting to show, and yet the test results were not out. So I didn't enjoy the eating nor the visiting, I only hoped my children enjoyed the new year as much as I did when I was a child.

Photo Flash Back - Dec 2009

2011-01-10T20:26:00.002+08:00

Bevan performed in a piano concert with a few other children.

He dressed up in black suit, red bow-tie, bowed to the audience and played "Ke Ren Lai". Nevermind he played a little faster than he should. We parents were having a good laugh and a touching, prideful, moment.

Baby Brayen

2010-12-06T20:51:00.010+08:00

Brayen follows me to the office every day. He sleeps in our room everynight. I carry him as much as I can, bathe for him every day, feed him, talk to him, kiss and tease him. Whenever I spend time with him, I wonder how long more can I do this for him before he runs around with his opinion and ideas, and demands that I should do things his way. I love how sweet and peaceful it is at this age. It's motherhood at it's sweetest beginning. As I understand it will slowly grow into something that needs reasoning, disciplining, and, a bit of shouting will be unavoidable later.

I understand that every new milestone achieved is equivalent to a step further from babyhood. So I am very relaxed about it.

Surprisingly, even my gynae who knew about my prenatal depression, was surprisingly happy that, brayen is extremely friendly and smilie! Given that I cried so much during pregnancy. He is very warm and smile at every little monkey act, smile to strangers, giggles to me whenever I say hi or mama. He is capable of sucking all five fingers at one go. Sometimes I think it is worth it to be depressed then, I gave all my happiness to him! He really makes me happy.

As a baby, bevan was opinionated and funny. Berton was serious and disciplined, brayen is kind and warm. It's probably just another silly motherly thing. But it felt so clear to me straight when they were like 10 days old.

I just want to say, I love my children. Luckily I have them.

My Birthday

2010-11-12T01:09:00.001+08:00

My first birthday as a mother of three.

After going through so much, I know my limit and my strength. I hope to be a happier mother, a happier wife and a happier woman.

Flash Back Oct 2009 - June 2010

2010-11-12T00:02:00.009+08:00

It has been a year since I last updated my life here faithfully. A year has passed like a dream.

October 2009. I went out for dinner with my friends to celebrate my birthday. I felt unusually hungry and dizzy. I bought a tester that night, and it was positive that I was pregnant with baby #3. I was happy. My hubby was worried if I could handle pregnancy with many pre-planned changes ahead. He was right. I couldn't.

November 2009. I was vomiting like crazy. The worst of all my pregnancies. The worst migraines. The business was not auto-piloting. I was in the worst mood. Our holiday house was ready to move in. But I was not at all excited.

December 2009. I received a call from the hospital
"Amanda, your Oscar result is out. It shows a high risk of down syndrome. 1 in 101."
I started crying. I blamed myself for being greedy, why did I wish for another baby? Why did I take for granted? Why did I wish for a girl? I thought about abortion. I cried and cried. I cried with tears whenever nobody is around. I cried inside when there is someone around.

January 2010. This is the toughest month. I regarded my hubby's socializing as betrayal. I was serious and certain that my family was breaking apart, as I broke apart inside. I was full of anger, sadness, fear. The same month, I did amniotic test to diagnose the health of my pregnancy. I understood that I needed help to heal. I sought help from marriage counsellor, psychologist and psychiatrist. I was very desperate to heal. I needed to be strong for my children, my business, and my pregnancy. In this month, Bevan and Berton started morning classes.

February 2010. The amniotic test result was a good one! I was really happy, I thought that would be the end of my depression. In anticipation of our newborn, we bought a bigger house. For the first time in this pregnancy, I put on weight.

March 2010. I found an afternoon school for bevan and berton to attend to take some stress out our lives. Its a Chinese school, near our house. Its rather casual with only 5 children in the school, Bevan and berton could be in the same class, and berton could still nap in the school if he was tired. They learnt Chinese poems, calligraphy, acrobats. I felt really good that the children were in good hands. I visited them in the school whenever I could.

April 2010. I put on a lot of weight. I drank lots of ice Milo from macdonalds. I felt like I could give birth anytime with my extremely heavy tummy and body. Deep down inside, still darkness. My hubby did quite a bit to make me feel better. He tried to improve our house, let me have better food. But, I needed someone to talk to me, he was a man with VERY few words. I needed someone to wipe my tears, hold my hands tightly. He thought sleeping was the best medicine for a heavy, busy, depressed, pregnant woman.

May 2010. We started sourcing a childcare option to prepare for baby #3 arrival. Started renovating our new house. Started packing hospital bag. The new house was still not ready to move in and I knew I was going to give birth anytime.

June 2010. I gave birth to baby Brayen.

I will survive.

Moments In A Day

2010-10-25T23:46:00.003+08:00

730am
Change and hug the boys before they go to school and to work.

9am
Feed and bathe for the baby. Have breakfast. Cook lunch and dinner, pack in warmers.

11am
Bathe and goes to office with baby and lunch bag. Meet the boys in office, and let them have lunch. Have packed lunch. Hubby send the boys to afternoon school.

1pm to 8pm
Work. Baby around the shop with Nanny.

730pm
Twice a week, hubby and I make it a point to reach home by this time. Play with the boys, read or bake cake.

830pm
Dinner. Feed, play with baby, sleep with him. Pack everyone's breakfast in containers.

12am
iPad with hubby. Sleep.

Once again

2010-10-11T23:54:00.007+08:00

One day when my little baby was only 2.5 months old.

Baby was asleep, and I creeped into the bathroom. When I stepped out of the bathroom, I saw my little baby turned around. He flipped! Thereafter, he self entertains by rolling around and raised himself up.

It's the moment again. The mixed feelings of sweetness, pride, over baby's milestone. I had to sit at the side of the bed, and smiled for a while before I could do anything else.

3 Littlekohs Brothers

2010-10-06T22:37:00.000+08:00

Brayen's 1 Month Party

2010-10-05T21:31:00.000+08:00

My Confinement Nanny

2010-10-04T10:15:00.001+08:00

She was born in Singapore, married to a Malaysian 30 years ago. She followed her hubby, live in Malaysia, and worked as a farmer. She has 4 children and a few miscarriages. They lived in a house beside a railway, with no electricity. Snakes crawls in during rainny days. Her hubby later eloped with Vietnamese girlfriend, she almost wanted to commit suicide, chose to live on for her children.

Behind every man, there is always a woman.

Behind every woman, there is always a heart-wrenching story.

A Very Eventful Confinement

2010-10-04T01:38:00.005+08:00

Before you complain about the heat and ginger, listen to mine.

During my confiment month, we moved house, I had a post-delivery surgery, went back to work.

Moved House
We lived in a manhattan-style unit near the town for 1 year. After knowing that we were going to have a newborn, we decided that we need a big-enough unit to house 3 children, still near town, for long term benefit. So when I was around 6 months pregnant, we bought a new unit. Renovation, just like all renovations, there was delay, it was not completed the day I gave birth. We needed the new unit for a good confinement. So the first week, we moved house.

Post-delivery Surgery
It was one of the aftermaths of natural-delivery-of-4.335kg-without-epidural. I developed piles after 1 week, I tried my best to endure the pain, hoping that it would go away. But it didn't, I cried and cried, it was too painful. On the second week of my confinement, lying on the bed in our new house, 2am, I woke my hubby up, and said in tears that whatever it takes, I needed this pain to stop.

So we went to Thomson Medical, the doctor came in, I was changed, sent to operation theatre, there was anaesthetist, laughing gas. It was not easy for me, for someone who had just been through great pain of delivery. I still had the phobia. All with me sobbing and crying. The pain went on for another 1 week after the surgery.

Work
It was lousy timing. People love to buy diamonds during GSS, propose or have weddings before lunar 7th month. Didn't expect the surgery, eClarity started accepting appointments on the second week of my confinement. So 1 day after the surgery 1 week after delivery, I worked. That means 4 hours of standing, explaining, showing wedding bands, with schedule too packed to have any break, drink or food. I could not sit, nor stand. I bend my body held with my elbows on the jewellery counters for 4 hours. 1 week after delivery, 1 day after surgery.

I am a changed person after this whole ordeal.

My Birth Story

2010-09-12T23:57:00.002+08:00

18 June 2010

5am
Bevan dreamt and I woke up to comfort him. To my surprise, I realised I was actually in pain! I went to the toilet to time the pain. It got more intense. I called up tmc, bathed and woke hubby up. Before I left home, I did one thing which impressed myself - I taught my maid how to operate the washer to dry wash the curtain. From the user manual.

6am
I remember the contractions came before we stepped out of the house, I waited for it to end, took the lift, and another contraction came when the lift reached first level. It was that close. When we reached the hospital, instead of sweeping me off my feet, hubby asked for a wheelchair. As I was rolled from the car to the entrance, I had to moan in pain. I was 4 to 5cm dilated. The routine was done, I washed up and was rushed into delivery suite.

630am
The heroic episode of epidural-less. It happened very fast. I did ask for epidural. A few things went through my mind. It's my last pregnancy, I felt like going through the real ordeal. Plus, the gynae said I might give birth in 1 hour's time. But, it was really painful.

"So do you want epidural?"
"Yes... hmm... no... maybe yes..."

My final decision - no epidural. It was a painful one.

7am
The gynae left. I behaved exactly like the woman giving birth in a movie. I perspired, I shook my head, I shouted, I screamed.

"MAKE ME FAINT, NOW! Please.."
"GIVE ME EPIDURAL NOW!"
"Yes... we understand... it is very painful... yes"

Obviously the nurses have seen this scene too many times. I could feel how she didn't mean it when she said she understood while doing some other things beside me. I sent text messages to inform my office in between contractions. My hubby took pictures and videos of me.

730am
Maybe I shouted too loudly, one senior nurse stepped in. She forced the laughing gas to me and held it tight to my face. Taught hubby to rub my back. When I screamed again, she told my hubby "Childbirth is very painful. I gave birth to 6 children..." I quiet down with full respect.

8am
My gynae came back. The urge to push was killing.
"Listen to me Amanda! Use your energy pushing!"
I gave one, last, shot, I pushed and out a 4.335kg baby.

I was so so so tired. Baby was wrapped out and left on my chest. Amazingly I kissed him so dearly. He is my baby Brayen.

Everyone, meet Brayen!

2010-07-20T10:38:00.008+08:00

Baby Brayen was born on 18 June, with 4.335kg. I did it with natural birth, and aha! With NO EPIDURAL.

It was a huge relief, I was sighing in thankfulness, smiling from cheek to cheek, as the nurses pushed me out of the delivery suite, with baby wrapped in towel in my arms. Nurses and doctors saw me and exclaimed "Solid Mommy!" "Power Mommy!" waving their thumbs up. What an achivement.

The feeling of motherhood is once again rocking down my world. I am breastfeeding little Brayen, kissing and smelling him, playing with his little hands and legs, laughing at his every sneeze, fart, yawn, and stretch. Having a newborn rekindles the maternal instinct to sacrifice the world for all 3 kids. I am enjoying motherhood, and happily re-orientating my life. Because I know how time flies. I lost more than half the weight gain, and milk supply has been bra-leaking good. (Oops sorry too much details)

Having a Warrior (Bevan) and a Ruler (Berton) at home, we really needed a peaceful name. We searched through baby books, and settled with a name I really love, Brayen, a variation of Brian, which means a Noble Prince.

Though my third baby, there were so many firsts. I went through a difficult pregnancy, overwhelming delivery, and a post-delivery surgery.

Finally I am back on my buttock (literally I can finally sit up). I wish to bid farewell to whatever leftover depression I have within.

Now, Me

2010-05-24T14:49:00.003+08:00

Yes dear all, I am 36 weeks pregnant.

This pregnancy has been my most eventful one. From a shocking prenatal test results, emotional depression, shifting houses, backache which resembles slipped disk, stubborn additions of 4-5 kilos every month. There have been lots of changes. For better or for worse,

I am ready.

Look At Bevan & Berton Now

2010-05-13T21:25:00.007+08:00

I intended to do this every December, but the last and the only time was almost 3 years ago. That time Bevan was 1.5 yo, Berton 9 months old. This time we did it again. We went to a studio and took family pictures. Look at all my little #1 men.

Things To Bring To The Hospital For Delivery

2010-05-12T13:17:00.006+08:00

After 3 and a half years, I have totally forgotten what needs to be brought along to the hospital. I only remember that it was a canvas Gucci bag (opps), and the hospital provided some of the items. So I had to search the net, and eventually printed out this list.

(This time round I will use a humble, practical, light-weight LeSportSac. Pretty!)

Things to take for admission
Identity cards for both husband and wife
Letter from Gynae
Marriage Certificate
Credit Cards
Booking Slip for admission
Camera, charged

For The Mother
3 night dresses, preferably with buttons in front for breast-feeding
1 set dress for going home
1 pair of bedroom slippers
3 nursing brassiere
3 boxes of disposable maternity panties
1 box of maternity sanitary pad
1 box of tissues
1 bag of toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, comb etc) use warm water for washing up.
1 face towel
4 plastic bags for soiled clothing
Snacks

For the Baby
3 Blouses/shirts
3 pairs of mittens and booties
3 wrapping blankets
1 packet of disposable diapers
1 packet of wet tissue
1 box of tissue papers
5 handkerchiefs

For Siblings
Favorite books and toys
Drawing paper and crayons or markers
Snacks
A gift from Mom and Baby
A camera just for big brother or sister to take pictures

Hello!

2010-02-26T14:40:00.004+08:00

I think I am ready to come back.

My Best Friend's Wedding

2010-01-14T00:22:00.006+08:00

I must start by writing how much this best friend mean to me.

We knew each other when we were 15. She sat in front of me in the classroom. I was always with the nerds, she was always with the orchard road kids. But we were very close. We joked that maybe I was the most fashionable one among the nerds, and she was the most nerdy one among the hip. We have the same surname, stayed nearby, knew the same dialect, and we even look alike.

We spoke to each other almost every night for hours. Even when we moved on to different schools after that, we amazed ourselves to continue chatting and meeting up so frequently. We stood by each other for so many heartbreaking sessions - quarrels with family, breakups and patch backs, lost and grievances, marriage and childbirths, or even just "Eih friend I forgot to bring wallet". One phone call, sometimes crying and walking alone in the streets, the other one will be there in minutes.

So no matter how I am, I went to her wedding. When I saw her in her wedding gown finally, and she saw me there in her wedding no matter what, we hugged and cried happy tears. Her mother walked out "Aiyo, you two girls, 看到妈妈都没有这么开心!"

Congratulations Wenshan & Bernard.

Berton Goes To School

2010-01-07T15:57:00.004+08:00

I stayed in the school for 2 days with Berton. The first day almost all the parents were in the class. The teachers prompted the parents "to leave when you are ready", and one daddy put it so nicely, "I am the one who is not ready emotionally" Everyone laughed. I enjoyed every second in the class with Berton.

The second day, more parents left the kids. I was the last mommy in the class, and I started to think having 2 kids at home is nothing! Because I saw 7 crying N1 cuties and 2 perspiring teachers. The cuties were crying on the floor, putting toys in their mouths, banging themselves on the door because they wanted to go out to see their mummies. I contributed by giving out tissue papers and translating what the Chinese teacher was saying to comfort the kids. When the teachers told me to leave when I am ready, I asked "do you think you are ready for me to leave?" She said, "maybe you can stay for a while more." I think so.

Until it was playground time, and 3 more teachers came in to help. I said bye bye to Berton, he cried. But I heard he only cried for 5 minutes, and then he carried on to finish 3 bowls of rice, helped out with other kids, and told the teachers "I am a big boy! I am a strong boy!"

Oooh I love my baby.

Rough Patch

2009-12-23T10:23:00.006+08:00

I am going through a rough patch.

It makes me have complicated feelings. It was supposed to be a good news, I was supposed to enjoy this because I told myself so many times that I need to experience it. However, things changed over one phone call.

It threw me into 2 days of crying whenever I am alone, 1 month of waiting with uncertainty ahead. I make myself think positive, whether the answer is favourable or not, it can be good for us.

Whether it's favourable or not, I still have my littlekohs.

Jacky Wu

2009-12-10T15:23:00.004+08:00

First of all, it's important, for my dignity sake, to clarify that I am definitely not a fan of his.

However, this extremely popular talk show hosts from Taiwan, who is known to be flamboyant, a bit of an over-aged playboy. As I was watching his show, he impressed me with his knowledge in the Chinese language, history, and his quick witted humour. He has even won first prize in a singing competition.

Among all, 2 things he said that linger in my mind were

若要子孙有斗志与上进心, 就得留三分饥与贫.
To keep your children and grandchildren motivated, you have leave them with a bit of hungry and poverty.

老板要给员工三份薪量- 一份每月薪金, 一份环境的薪金, 一份未来的薪金.
Employers to give employees three salaries - a monthly pay cheque, a good environment, and a glimpse of future development.

He could have said it during "the sexiest Bikini Girl" part in his show. It's still impressive.

Where Were We: Kuantan

2009-12-08T01:05:00.004+08:00

We went Kuantan over a long weekend.

We met my grandma - littlemen's great grandma, there was an emotional wedding, great beach, great hotel, great morning breakfast, lots of driving with GPS.

A lot more updates.

Behind The Clouds

2009-12-04T22:18:00.001+08:00

I was hiding behind the clouds for a few days.

For new, though not major, challenges in work, health, life came together. And nights were spent laying down on sofas with blanket, until it's time to sleep. I needed to be completely brainless, totally carefree for that 2 hours after work, and kids were asleep.

I had overspent my daytime brain and energy quota. With a few surprises which I will slowly record them online.

Here I am again, ready for face them all.

When To Go For Baby #3

2009-11-21T12:33:00.002+08:00

Whenever someone asked us, "When are you going for Baby #3?"
We have been conveniently replied, "Oh no no, 2 is enough!"

So one day when my hubby asked me, "When are we really ready for Baby #3?"
We seriously thought about it, and our conclusion -

When we are ready to hear Gynae say "Congratulations! It's another Boy!" and we start to cry happy tears. And if by then I am still below 33. If that day ever comes, we will let nature takes its course.

My friend in Australia said, one for the Dad, one for the Mom, one for the Nation.

We in Singapore say, one for the fullday school, one for the halfday school, one for the maid.

Obama And I

2009-11-15T00:32:00.004+08:00

A customer who initially scheduled an appointment on Saturday, called us to postpone the appointment to Monday instead. She said "Obama will be going to Orchard at 2pm, that's the same time as my appointment! There will be a bad traffic jam!"

I heard that Obama finally only arrived at 8pm. But it's for the first, and I guess the only time that Obama came so close to my life. Not unless he decided to drop by and get some South Sea Pearls for his wife.

Unusual Parent-Teacher Chat

2009-11-10T23:11:00.002+08:00

Stacey, Bevan's teacher said Bevan is showing very advance problem-solving skills and expresses himself very well. Shows lots of improvement in concentration span and discipline. He socialises among the boys group and the girls group. Which we were very happy and proud to hear.

And then, she moved on to talk about our helper.

First, there were a few times that when Siamah came to pick him up from school to my office, sometimes together with Berton, from Forum to Shaw Centre, she didn't hold their hands. Their hearts dropped when they saw cars drove into the lanes beside my boys as they ran freely. Stacey and other teachers have seen it happening.

Second, once Bevan accidentally hit a friend while they were playing at the merry-go-round after the class, Siamah hit him quite hard and scolded him loudly. The parents felt so uneasy about it that she requested Stacey to let me know.

Once again, I wish I could take care of my kids myself.

Mr Monopoly Junior

2009-11-03T12:02:00.003+08:00

When Leslie and I were in New York, we played lots of board games to kill the boredom of crazy winter nights. So when Bevan showed interest in Monopoly. I was rather excited and grabbed the Junior version from Toys R Us that very day.

Bevan and I were a team, Berton and Daddy formed the other. Except for the occasional throwing of dice into the sky, and shifting of houses together to form a row of houses, we did okay. We noticed Berton has this incredible luck! He was always the one who get lucky chances, the one who gets all the Mr Monopoly loose change. Bevan focused on getting $2 every time he passed GO.

At the end, Berton and team won us by $1!

Moving House 14: What Now, Holiday Home

2009-10-21T01:08:00.003+08:00

So, what is happening to our holiday home?

It is still not ready. All our packed items are still in the warehouse. It's quite a bit of anti-climax in the excitement and anticipation among the littlekohs.

Here's the interesting estimated TOP from the developer:

November 08
It was indicated in the property catalogue that its TOP will be in Jun 09

December 08
Right after we signed on the Sales Agreement, the agent estimated a slight delay to Jul 09

July 09
We called the agent, she told us to call again in Aug 09

Aug 09
The agent said maybe September

Sept 09
We called the agent, she said "I don't know I cannot point the gun at the developer."
I didn't explain to her we didn't mean anything that violent. I guess it wouldn't help. So we wrote an email to her manager and the developer "in-charge", no one replied. I called their numbers, they said 30 September 09.

30 Sept 09
The "in-charge" said she didn't promised 30 Sept, it was just an estimate.

7 Oct 09
I called the the manager, for the first time I mumbled something like "I can be very good in making a public complaint." I really didn't want to get angry, because it's a new home, it's our nice, relaxing holiday home. So I controlled myself, minded my manners, maintained a smile when I spoke over the phone. She said maybe 3 more weeks.

That's 28 Oct 09. We shall see. For your information, it's an award winning project. Arrgghhh.

Hi-5 Concert

2009-10-16T16:11:00.004+08:00

We watched Hi-5 too!

For non-parents, Hi-5 is an educational program that comprises dancing, singing, story-telling, drama with a theme each episode, it can be solar system, travelling, teamwork, sports, wild life, party. As an anti-video mother, this is the only VCD I give in to.

The greatest part of Hi-5 - it allows me to take a nice bath.

So when the Hi-5 team came to Singapore, the whole team of 4 littlekohs went full force to support the concert of our stars. It was good. When the Hi-5 jumped on stage, my excitement was no lesser than watching Jackie Cheung. When it ended, Bevan asked to watch it all over again, just like how we re-played the VCD at home.

It's our littlekohs' first concert together.

(It's an overdue post)

The NEW eClarity.com.sg

2009-10-11T18:33:00.005+08:00

Once upon a time (5 years ago), I started a website for my shop...

The old experience folks said:
Ahaha! Nobody will ever buy diamonds from website, you are wasting money!

The young IT-savvy friends said:
Ahaha! Your website is so lousy, it should allow customers to see rings from all dimensions, visualise the ring on their fingers...

Of course, better still the ring pops out from the screen drops on your table.

With limited resources, as in time and money, I had to spend on buying more stock, hiring assistants, expand production team. I maintained the website at its basic though I had faith in it. The website hits increased, from 20 hits a month, to 5000, to 20,000. Recently, we have 20,000 hits per week.

Finally, this is the time. Finally, I have the resources to spare. eClarity.com.sg has a new look! The diamond list is updated, the wedding bands listing are more visible, and we have a recognition tab with our favourite customers’ pictures.

I have a feeling of pride. The new eClarity.com.sg, though no ring magic yet, it is a dream come true for me.

It's an important step in retailing less and mothering more. Please ask your friends to go buy diamond online at warehouse prices - eClarity.com.sg

Happy Birthday To Me

2009-10-08T01:34:00.005+08:00

It's really the first year I feel old. Thank you for having littlekohs and bigkoh by my side. Thank you my best friends wenshan, sayni, belinda, and my dad, for always remembering the day and drop me little sweet notes, year after year.

I love you all. I am so lucky.

New Parenting Gadget

2009-10-04T22:31:00.009+08:00

We've planned to get a CCTV eversince Bevan is borned. It has been a hopeless delay because I always thought 1. It will be as sophisticated and troublesome as the one in my shop. 2. That means we have to go Funan or Sim Lim to negotiate for one, 3. Some technician would drill a hole in my house wall to fix it, and 4. After that we can only watch it on a pc.

I was obviously living in the dinasour era.

Introducing our new (and I heard its not new) parenting gadget - mobile livecam.

It looks like a little robot toy, we place it on the hob in our open kitchen. We can watch what's going on in the living room by making video call to a number. We can zoom in, turn 120 degrees, listen to the sound, and even speak to people at home! We can now go out when the kids are asleep, stressfree.

Thank goodness, or thank the IT people, we parents with no grandparental help can all start watching movies again. I name it the best parenting gadget after breastpump and cane.

The Ugly Truth

2009-10-01T10:31:00.003+08:00

My hubby and I did something that we had not done in the past 7 years. It’s something so important, so distressing, so simple and yet so sweet. Maybe I was so used to spending every minute functional and contributive, and that my hubby thinks I really need some relaxation. He decided that we need to do it.

We watched a movie together!

The title of the movie was "The Ugly Truth". I ended up laughing from the beginning till the end. I was having quite a serious migraine the whole day, and thought about canceling our date. Luckily I had decided to take some painkiller and cheer us on. I slept extremely well after the show, and woke up so much happier.

We plan to revive our movie dates. Still being as result oriented as ever, we will only watch any romance comedy with 4 or 5 stars.

Back From Hong Kong

2009-09-29T22:51:00.004+08:00

I am back from Hong Kong!

1. H1N1. My hubby bought masks for my colleague and I to bring along. We turned out to be the only ones wearing masks on the flight. We didn't care, as there were too much sneezing and coughing in the flight to risk! We didn't wear it in the trade show. We brought a sanitiser each, and we put on after every handshake or hug. We used it in a really open way, shook hands with people, took out the sanitiser, and asked "would you like some too?" Cool.

2. No kids! I was alone without my littlekohs. The trip was so event packed that I didn't have time to feel homesick. It's rare to see me without my kids, almost everyone I met said "Amanda! Where are your kids?" Working with my kids has become my trademark in the industry. Honestly this time I felt so efficient, I walk faster, eat faster, socialising was once again enjoyable. I guess I need work-alone-time occasionally.

We finished work at 730pm, but Hong Kong is a city never sleeps, that left us 4 more hours of shopping. I bought 2 bags of toys and clothes for littlekohs. Every minute in Hong Kong was really well spent. Nice! I want to go again!!

Moving House 13: Bye!

2009-09-23T01:00:00.005+08:00

After days of we call it mission impossible - driving half an hour, together with the kids, to go back to old house to pack, then rush back driving half and hour to bathe, then to office for lunch, and then send them to school, and rush to work. My life was so stressful that my heart was pumping faster than usual.

We have handed over the keys!

All our selected precious toys, clothes, documents, soveniers are now in warehouse. It's definitely a great relieve that packing is over. I almost didn't feel emotional at all, because our new holiday home will be so similar to the old home! Since we packed what we need and what we don't need. And this is how Bevan sees it

Me: Oops. Uncle is going to wrap the chairs up, mommy has no chair to sit.
Bevan: It's ok Mommy, everything will be sent to Lei**** F***.
Me: Will you miss Lil*d***?
Bevan: No, because it is so dirty already. (looking at the dirt on the floor)

Moving House 12: The Packing

2009-09-21T16:48:00.005+08:00

Moving house is really not as easy as I thought.

When we rent out the house, we just brought 3 luggages, and move to our new house. The rest, I spent 5 hours with 2 domestic helpers, we squeezed the obvious in the store room. We rented it out to a friend.

Now this time is real because we SOLD the house. We need to shift everything to the holiday house. Which is not ready. So everything needs to go in warehouse. Then I realised the mattresses and blankets are still at the top of wardrobe, the kitchen has lots of pots and funny stuff, the boxes are not sealed.

The whole house of items need to be cleared. BY TUESDAY. I am punished by my hobby to keep things, like - pots which are a little bit burnt, take-away containers, unused stationary, empty shampoo containers which are pretty, handphone boxes, modem boxes, handbag paperbag. Those are easy, we just throw them away.

But what about - cups we collected as souvenir when we travelled around the world, the 7 dwarfs my hubby gave me when I was supposedly a snow white, the satin and lacey ribbons used to decorate our wedding car, the first perfume I bought for my hubby, my kids first set of clothes, old mini sony laptop that's working extremely slow but we paid $3999 for??

I learnt not to keep things that are broken, not to buy too many things, and not to move house anymore.

Almost done. Things will be shifted out tomorrow. Bye bye our first home!

Fashion Evolution

2009-09-18T01:30:00.005+08:00

Similar to 230 million years ago when lizards evolved into dinasaurs. I am into the most dangerous era of my own fashion evolution.

1992 - Secondary shool. The nicest and cheapest that I could find in street market or AMK central. Often end up with nested top, silver dress and checked bermuda.

1995 - JC. Tried to look mature and emotional - just like the girl described in my chinese novel, weak, pretty and sentimental. Favourite brand was British India.

1997 - NUS. Turtle neck, overalls, short skirts. I toggled between an NUS-norm and what I truly liked.

1999 - About to graduate. Spaghetti strap with long canvas skirt. Allow me to say this - I personally thought that was my prettiest moment. Hee. I danced a lot, I was hip and man, I had grown up.

2001 - Worked 9am to 630pm. G2000, IORA, South Haven, Seeds, Mango, Topshop, Ms Selfridge. Wherever having sale.

2006 - Given birth. All black. All loose. Bysi, Takashimaya, Allure.

July 2009 - I said I liked tokyo fashion and ordered online. And then, unbloggedly I went into Forever 21 and accessories.

Sept 2009, I shocked myself and scared my husband that I started to shop at DKNY, Maxstudio, DG, Dior. I have a new fashion investment philosophy that "I would rather get 1 good dress than to get 10 non-lasting fashion". I am into polyester + silk fabric. That was just 2 weeks after I exclaimed wittily how Mayuki was the fashion undercover. I think my philosophy works as long as I don't end up owning 10 nice dresses.

We shall see what's next.

Wait Outside

2009-09-17T00:19:00.005+08:00

I was on the phone, and mentioned something about attending Hong Kong trade show next week. (A: Mommy B: Bevan and Berton)

B: Mommy, who is going to Hong Kong?
A: Mommy is going to Hong Kong next week.
B: I want to go with you to Hong Kong.
A: But Mommy is going there for work.
B: I wait for you outside Hong Kong while you work ok?
A: Hmm... you wait for Mommy in Singapore.
B1: Is Singapore outside Hong Kong?
B2: Ok we wait for Mommy in Singapore.
B1: But this is Singapore.
B2: No, this is not Singapore, this is Shaw Centre.

The conversation went on, about what is a country, a state, a district and an address. And yes, I will be going Hong Kong alone, without my little family!

Birthday Update

2009-09-16T00:03:00.006+08:00

It's the 6th time I organise a birthday party for my little boy. But this time (or maybe each time?) is just so different.

This time Bevan's classmates came. Together with many cousins who grew out of babyhood, there were record-breaking number of kids. We put the skooters, roller skates, balls, balloons, little tables and other toys in a corners, switched on Hi-5 on the projector screen, the kids were self-entertaining themselves. We moms chatted like how aunties chat, schools, cooking, maids, houses, kids and hubbies. I was so enjoying my auntiehood, that moment.

This time Bevan had lots of participation. The cake was something I negotiated with Bevan, he wanted Transformers, I really don't like the Transformers cake which was all black and grey, so he gave in to Winnie The Pooh. Whenever he's asked what present he liked to have, he said marbles or robots. So some of my friends asked me what, I, would like to have. Oh my my my, I am such a narrow-minded Mom! We are beginning to have generation gap.

This time is the first time he receives a POLICE UNIFORM as a gift, the first time the grandparents let Bevan and Berton went into the pool half naked after the party, the first time we have 4 candles on the cake.

Garage Sale - Sold

2009-09-07T23:58:00.005+08:00

Because none of you responded to my homemade garage sale. The only people who turned up were my parents, my mother-in-law, my best friend, and my contractor-turn-friend.

The items which successfully auntioned away with $0 were
1. My baby cot to my friend for their upcoming pregnancy (they are not pregnant nor married). We joked about how worried her mom would be when she carries a baby cot home. Sorry Auntie. :)
2. My fridge and washer to my Mom, because hers are 18 years old. Time flies!
3. My red wine collections (about 10 bottles for decoration) go to my mother-in-law.
4. I can't bare to part with my dining table and coffee tables eventually, those will go to warehouse first.
5. The rest my contractor-turn-friend will help donate it.

All SOLD! I am surprised! And as my best friend said, its a "super emo" gathering to say bye to her best friend's matrimonial home.

On Bent Knee @ eClarity

2009-09-06T23:08:00.007+08:00

One of my customers, SW, requested to propose in my shop.

Of course I gladly agreed.

His couple friends pretended that they were the ones looking for wedding bands, SW and his girlfriend accompanied them. I sheepishly placed the diamond ring which he had carefully chosen, custom made, and ordered 2 weeks ago in a nice box, on a table behind him, he took it, we repeated the song "if we hold on together", and waited excitedly for the action. When he proposed on one bended knee, she said yes! We and the other customers clapped, cheered, took pictures. The guys salute to him. I felt so touched! It's great witnessing our work became part of it. It's so romantic!

Bevan 4YO!

2009-09-05T02:26:00.005+08:00

I just couldn't stop photoshopping birthday invitation for the boys.

Full month and 1YO we invited almost everyone. 2YO you invite relatives and close friends. 3YO you invite family and closest friends. 4YO... Bevan says he wants to invite "liyi, seraphina, yihao, earnest, miyen, kyle, kayden, jayden, teacher stacey, teacher kamala... and also the auntie cleaner."

Luckily I got permission to invite "Auntie Wenshan, Auntie Suat Hong..." to have fun too.

Below 30 Parental Guidance

2009-09-04T02:00:00.004+08:00

Whenever we chat, with my colleagues/assistants who are 5 to 10 years younger, there are moments of generation gap.

"You idols are what Takishi and Kim Cheong Kim what?"
"Yes, in my era we have 4 heavenly kings, and do you know grasshoppers?"
"Yes, my time Computer Science was part of Science in NUS"
"Hello I used to club, at Mambo night ok. Can't tell?"
"It's a TCS show." (Spot the mistake)

No we didn't watch Japanese and Korean show. Only comics we knew were Lao Fu Zi which nobody read. Our idols were Little Tiger Team or New Kids On The Block. Hersheys were the most highclass chocolate.

Tonight I spent my precious-me-time on youtube for soul-searching, and found this. Watch this! Below 30 needs parental guidance.

Bevan Loves Mommy

2009-09-04T00:31:00.003+08:00

Every evening, I feel how much Bevan loves me.

About 730pm every evening, Bevan's Daddy comes to my office and pick the kids up and send them back home. This was the reason why we moved house, so that they can go home earlier, to run in the field, bathe, drink milk, read books, and sleep. While I work till 9-ish 10 in the office.

But every night, Bevan cries and shouts "I want to go home with Mommy!! I don't want to go home first. Mommy you don't work anymore! Customers GO HOME PLEASE!!!"
Berton goes "Gege, Mommy needs to work, you know."
I stood there tired and blushed.

"Sunday I will keep Bevan accompanied. Weekdays Mommy needs to work"
"I want TOMORROW!"
"Not tomorrow, Sundays I will not work"
"No I want TOMORROW!"
"Tell you a secret... " I whisper.
"Mommy will work from home from next year onwards"
"Now go back and show Daddy the new Dora/ask Daddy to buy yogurt"
"Promise you will not work"
"Promise I will try to work from home."
"Hug hug first""Kiss kiss first""Hold hands for a while"

We hold hands for 3 seconds, with the whole shop of customers watching. Finally they go home. This happens everynight between 7-8pm.

My customers say "So cute...! Sorry to keep you here with us." so much so that when they recommend their friends, their friends make appointment by asking "Sorry we can only rush there by 730pm, please say sorry to your boy for me."

One of them said "He loves you so much!"

And I think, yes, he loves me so much, it's a natural thing. I love them very much, and they love me very much. I am a blessed Mommy.

On the hindsight - They will have dinner at Macdonald's and go home from there, while I work on a long term plan.

Moving House 11: Garage Sale At Old House

2009-08-30T01:18:00.009+08:00

The initial plan was to send everything to our new holiday home.

Then we realised new fridge, washer, and microwave are provided. Then my hubby started to nurture an idea that new home should have new furniture. I have been attacking from the sentimental value of the furniture, my hubby have been attacking my switch in preference from Balinese brown to Victorian white. So I gave in - we will not bring the furniture over. But it doesn't feel good to throw away things that can still be used. We decided to do something fun, we are going to arrange a Garage Sale! The remaining items will be given away.

Garage Sale is such a young thing. We did a garage sale when we moved back from NY to Singapore, the furniture were used for barely a year. So I decorated a flyer, printed it 4C, my hubby distributed the flyers to the neighbourhood in the midst of snow. Luckily we sold all our Ikea kitchen ware and bookshelves. That was 5 years ago. Garage Sale with 2 kids is going to be very very simple.

Here's my advertisement on my own blog:

There will be my very precious, spacious, energy-saving fridge, my extremely durable 7kg washer, my rarely used TV in the study, my dearest water feature which we had never used, our lovely babycot and carseat cum rocker, our very careful choice of Balinese furniture from Barang Barang, Ikea and Picket & Rail.

It will be held on 6 September 09, Sunday, 10am to 1pm, near Orchid Country Club. Interested to buy, or friends interested to gather at my old house, before we hand over the keys (sob sob), please email me at littlekohs@gmail.com

Light refreshment would be provided!

Victoria Secrets

2009-08-24T01:58:00.005+08:00

It's always exciting, to just think about ordering Victoria Secrets.

When I was working as a young executive 5 to 8 years ago, the team assistant very frequently passed around the latest Victoria Secrets catalogue. We girls ogled at the unbelievable models, trying our best to imagine ourselves in bikinis, standing fatally seductive beside the beach, in the dry cold office environment, trying to hide from the IT male colleague sitting beside, with our full lunch stomachs.

So much so that when I stayed in New York after that, I sometimes carried a Victoria Secrets catalogue to flip through in the subway. It was a fashion I was familiar with, and also to show my counterparts that I was not a Chinatown girl, I was hip! But then one day my American friend asked me "My dear girl, why do you need to order online? Victoria Secrets outlets are everywhere in New York!" I didn’t know why I didn’t think of it. Victoria Secrets became my favourite shopping brand in my happening NY stay, it reminded me of home.

So, the truth is, I had never ordered Victoria Secrets ONLINE.

Recently I am going through an unplanned Fashion Evolution at home. I am currently in a phase where I find all the brands found in Singapore no longer exciting. I missed New York, Bangkok, Japanese fashion. After Mayuki, I am really doing it this time - ordering Victoria Secrets online! I hope it’s like what I imagined, classy dresses - not too short like those on mayuki or at bysi, too flowery like Future State, too thick or boring like tangs or takashimaya.

Orders placed, the hot stuff should arrive in 2 to 4 weeks time. I am soooo excited!

Little Funny Berton

2009-08-19T23:36:00.015+08:00

I have a precious love-hate relationship with my 2yo darling. He can be terribly stubborn sometimes, but most of the time he is terribly funny. Berton has become a comical little person, who humours us with his jokes and his singing. Bevan thinks "Berton is so funny".

Our one day of lovely encounter with our little terrific-2 darling:

Morning
Berton's grandpa (i.e. my dad) and Berton were in the carpark together. Grandpa was about to take something from the car. Berton either, 1 - forgot that he was not wearing a diaper, or 2 - knew he couldn't find a toilet in the carpark, passed urine in his pants.

Berton: "Oh oh! Urine in my pants!"
Grandpa: "Let's go, we need to look for Mommy."
Berton: "I want you to say Ooops."
Grandpa: *laugh* "Opps. Ok we go and change your pants."
Berton: "Oh! kay. Bye bye Urine, see you!"

Grandpa took off Berton's pants, and together, they took a lift in Shaw Centre, during lunch hour, and finally my little Berton reached my shop, pantless.

Afternoon
Berton ate dinner at MacDonalds, the waiter played with Berton and kept saying "you are so cute!"
After dinner, Berton came back to my shop and told me, "Mommy, Uncle beard beard pinch my face. Look!" He demonstrated, "like that. So painful you know?"

Night
Berton held the milk bottle, we were ushering him to the bedroom to drink his milk. He stopped walking halfway, turned around and said "Mommy I have magic."

He stood behind table, hiding the milk bottle. "Mommy, no more milk bottle."
"Look!" He raised his right hand.
"Look!" He raised his left hand.
"Magic!" He picked up the bottle from the floor and showed it to us!

The best magic ever.

A Famosa: The Experience

2009-08-17T10:24:00.005+08:00

The "hotel" we booked was really condominium units inside A famosa. The reservation cost SGD $400 per night if we reserve through the Singaporean hotline, $396 Ringgit through the Malaysian hotline. So it's easy to guess which hotline secure the deal. The unit was not new, but was quite spacious with 2 bedrooms, (in Singapore it could be segmented into 10 rooms). Bevan and Berton had lots of fun and falls running around the big house with balcony, and we all squeezed in a king sized bed at night. In the morning, we enjoyed our complimentary breakfast beside the pool.

The experience we had at the Animal Farm felt a bit like African Safari. We were welcomed by 2 tigers who were not in the cage, and they were real! They were so near to the entrance that we almost touched their tails! After the exciting entrance, we took the rides around, and for the first time, saw tiger and lion in 1 cage, with the intention to create mix breed. The shows (animals, elephant, bird) were so interesting even to a non-animal-show-person like me. We joked that even the elephants in Malacca looked happier than those in Singapore Zoos, they throw basket ball into the rings (from mid court!), kick soccer ball into the goal, carry people (including Bevan) with their trunks, and they even paint artistic drawing of nature for their guests.

We eventually didn't swim because Bevan fell on the road with open wounds on his legs (it's minor, you can see the plaster on our pictures). This was the first time, probably after I left school that I got so sticky and so hot, we ventured outdoor most of the time, and didn't go into a mall for the full 3D2N, it's a record! We all got home a lot darker. I recommend A Famosa to all parents with young children.

See pictures here and here.

America's Got Talent - Kevin Skinner

2009-08-13T00:21:00.005+08:00

I think one interest that we share fondly as a couple, other than playing with our kids, is a good talent search variety show.

Kelvin Skinner, an ex-chicken catcher, in the new America's Got Talent got both us after watching it on TV, watch it again 5 more times in youtube, and comtemplated recording it on our phones as ringtones.

His voice and his eyes almost brought tears to our hearts. Teach us not to judge a person by his occupation.

A Famosa: The People

2009-08-12T00:38:00.001+08:00

A Famosa: The Animal

2009-08-12T00:37:00.001+08:00

Random Updates

2009-08-07T23:39:00.004+08:00

1. We have been preschool hunting.
Next year Bevan will be in K1 and Berton in N1. Chiltern's house has been fantastic. But we just wanted to explore full day options for sanity sake. I went to Eton House, Pat's school house, Montessori, PMI, and requested for a copy of their CURRICULUM. All of them gave me their FEES STRUCTURE. With similar fees structures, and no information on curriculum, maybe we parents should just decide base on uniforms.

2. I have been watching Hong Kong TVB series Forensic Heroes
It was a surprise gift from my hubby (for making me angry. I sometimes spell out clearly - "You can buy that mango top for me the next time you make me angry."). For the past weeks I have been completely hooked on the series about using forensic evidence and scientific evidence to solve criminal cases. It's too captivating I couldn't blog more than 2 sentences.

3. Favourite shampoo is still Pantene
I bought a few "exclusive salon brand" shampoo from some wholesale centre last KL holidays. I just started using one of them and it effectively turned my otherwise not-bad hair into a broom, within 5 days. I frantically changed back to Pantene, and immediately the broom dispersed into nice healthy hair again. I am a Pantene supporter.

4. Snake has sColor
We have this book at home that says "Snake has scales". So I read to Bevan. Bevan told me "No Mommy, Snake has color!" So I demonstrated my limited phonics knowledge "s..c..a..le..s..". Bevan went "No Mommy, Kakak says color". So I asked Siama, she has been reading "scales" as "sColors" to Bevan. Following "Aba..coos" and "Hiding behind the baash", now snake has "sColor".

5. We are going to A Famosa
Tomorrow! For the long weekend, we are going to drive up North. We have been to Malacca 2 times for shopping and chicken rice ball, but this is the first time we are going to swim. We are going to meet up with some KL relatives who will be driving South to meet midway. The kids are extremely excited, and we have done packing!

My New Shopping Partner

2009-08-03T01:08:00.004+08:00

Bevan is slowing growing old enough to be my shopping partner. We can now go out without the baby stuff. Just 2 of us. We go for shopping at Orchard, followed by a drink at the cafe. He eats totally adult food, comfortable with public toilet, and he doesn't asked to be carried. We have conversation like

"Come Bevan hold mommy's bag I need to try out this hairband."
"Mommy this is not nice. I don't like black."
"Mommy this skirt is nice, you look like a queen."

Almost more fun than shopping with my hubby!

Liverpool And SwimmingPool

2009-07-28T01:00:00.002+08:00

It was Sunday 630pm, we were all at the swimming pool. I have decided to give Pizza Hut a call so that we can eat pizza and watch Liverpool VS Singapore match at 7pm.

I was holding the phone in the pool, ordering pizza. Bevan and Berton were all with my hubby at the other side of the pool. Suddenly, Bevan climbed out of the pool, ran towards my direction, but ran pass me, and, I couldn't believe my eyes, Bevan jumped into the pool! It's not the children's pool, it's 4 feet deep! He couldn't reach the floor! (Refer to diagram above)

I was 5 feet away from him, but I knew I was the nearest to him! I threw the phone away (I was at garlic bread), and nearly crying swimming to him. It's really scary to see my own child struggling under water. I was hoping for little miracle that he could grab hold of the sides. I was counting the every second when I swam over. I carried and hugged him. We all got a big scare.

Bevan was coughing while saying, "Mommy I don't want to wear goggle anymore, I cannot see the color of the pool, I don't know which one is deep which one is my pool."

Oh my poor darling.

After lots of hugs and kisses and assurance and scoldings, I gave Pizza Hut a call again.

eClarity's Fun Marketing

2009-07-26T00:41:00.006+08:00

I am happy that my little business has now grown to having-fun-phase.

It's always exciting to try out something new. We've advertised in Facebook last week, and sponsored google links this week. And it's surprisingly exciting to have customers made appointment by saying

"Hey I saw your ad at facebook, can I come down this Saturday to take a look at diamond rings?"

I have asked my ahem, marketing department, to continue trying out different channels of online marketing. It's a nice little bonus from the usual (but important and strong) network of recommendations. Fun!

Bevan's Sports Day

2009-07-18T02:32:00.006+08:00

I went to my son's sportsday!

It's another FIRST in parenthood. Usually my hubby takes outdoor and I take indoor. I was a weak backup when he couldn't make it. I cancelled all work appointments and turned up in Sports Stadium in pearls earrings and highheels.

The little kids were really excited. Before the games start, Bevan and his best friend Yihao went to a corner and created their very own mobile disco. It was hilarious to see 3 big babies (together with Berton) dancing so hard, especially when the background music was Who Lets The Dogs Out.

The kids asembled for a warm up, and then the games started! Bevan's class was in Yellow house. They had 5 games - clasping ball, scooping water, bean bag, scooping ping pong, and hopping on hula. Some little sportsmen ran half way and detour to their parents, some threw the balls away for fun. My little superstar Bevan was so serious in the games. He followed the rules, spinned off and ran back and sat down soo fast, thought there was once he stopped during the run to adjust his cap. All the mommies and daddies had so much fun laughing and snapping pictures.

I will be back next year! Preferably in t-shirt, bermuda and a pair of hook earrings.

Terrible Two In Action

2009-07-16T00:08:00.002+08:00

Berton insisted to sit in the basket at Cold Storage. Even when we were done with payment, Cold Storage was closing, he just wanted to sit there, and insisted that we carry him home in the "cage", like a bird. So I pretended to ask the cashier,

"Hi Aunty, can we bring the "cage" home?"
"No, but I can bring the boy boy home with me." How cooperative.

Bevan was immediately worried "No, Mommy I want Berton to go home with us."

After lots of explanation, animation and attention, my little baby finally stood up and let me carry him home, without the "cage".

MJ

2009-07-11T17:41:00.010+08:00

I should be the last person to talk about michael jackson.

Though I kind of grew up watching his mtvs on the TV (it was everywhere), witnessing his change from black to white, short haired to long haired, his nose grew taller, he became stranger. But I was never really a beat-it fan. I had never attempted moonwalk. I didn't find it that cool.

However, I also didn't particularly dislike him.

Now that he is no longer around. While watching one of his memorial concert, I was just thinking, maybe, maybe he was really not a strange person. Maybe he had his own unique fashion sense, maybe he was just ran out of idea to protect his kids from the fierce media by making them wear masks, maybe he truly loved kids all around the world, maybe he was under tremendous pressure to look good and to be accepted by public, maybe he was really affected by some comments that he was not white, maybe people were trying to defame him whenever opportunity striked.

Maybe he was just an extremely talented person, who was lacking in skills to handle the public, just like some maths genius in class who didn't have friends. He was truly the most charitable celebrity. The pressure on him was unimaginable - he would not be able to cross the street without causing a stir, for the past 30 years.

Maybe he was really a nice person who got bullied. Tell us to think twice before we judge a person.

Tokyo Fashion - Arrived!

2009-07-07T22:09:00.009+08:00

I received 2 dresses, 3 tops, 2 bags, 1 lacey tube and 1 lining, all for $150! Out of which only 1 dress was a wrong choice, because I looked like an overweight teenager in it. The rest were fantastic! This was the first time I ordered my own clothes online, I was really lucky to have found a good website, and a quite organised and experienced spree organiser (add 15/8: who during my 3rd spree started to classify a 65cm shirt as dress thus increasing shipment). I am glad I have chosen mostly chiffon fabric. This might be a beginning of an addiction to online retail therapy, I love the surprise when the goods arrived at my doorstep.

I am happy! I have planned my second purchase. Though still not as slim as the model, I'm a teeny little bit closer.

The Blue Sky

2009-07-05T22:00:00.008+08:00

Today we went to a new restaurant for dinner. It's a nice seafood restaurant at Turf City. It's outdoor, facing a golf course. So it's windy and we got to face the sky and green land as we dine. As we were eating half way, Berton, in a tone of amusement and seriousness, said

"Look!! The sky is blue!!"

I wonder was it the first time Berton noticed that the sky is blue, or because the sky was bluer than usual. We looked up at the sky together, it's in a nice royal blue. We would have missed it without Berton.

It's one of the most relaxing dinner we had.

曾经有一度

2009-07-03T23:43:00.005+08:00

曾经有一度. 我对中华文化有一种使命感, 我土得相信我应将华文发扬光大, 决心将中华文化的那一盏灯延续点亮. 曾经有一度.

不是说笑. 我真的曾经分别在1994夺得全国写作比赛第三名, 1996获得全国第一名. 集体的诗歌朗诵我们获得三连冠. 此外还有辩论上电视, 戏剧上专业舞台, 歌唱, 主持, 等. 学校里的比赛连得冠这就甭提了, 就连英文老师看到我都跟我说华语. 真的不是说着笑.

然后, 我开始堕落了. 我在大学里, 跌破了所有疼爱我, 栽培我, 培训我的华文老师的眼镜, 下巴和牙齿. 可以说没有碰过电脑的我, 在大学里选修电脑科技. 我狠狠地被自己的叛逆处罚着自己. 读得灯光火眼只能得B. 我在中文系选了两个enrichments, 轻易地拿了两个A, 狠狠地让讲师记得我这个外流学生. 讲师在我的小说上也狠狠地写着 "你非常有写小说的天份, 应往这方面发展.”

可是, 能屈能伸的我风光毕业. 毕业后继续堕落下去, 我在电讯公司里不知所谓地敬业乐业过了三年. 华文并不时尚. 认识的朋友, 嫁的老公, 都让我不知不觉地, 把这面的自我, 完全封闭起来.

华文华语, 还是我最流利也是最深沉压抑的, 最贴心也是最刚强澎湃的. 它是我抒发情感的管道, 我的强项. 写这篇部落, 除了想道道当年勇, 也希望我的孩子们认识妈妈, 认识那个其实华语可以说得很好的妈妈. 我会逐渐寻回自我, 寻回那个从来不曾舍弃我的华文.

Growing Up Together

2009-07-02T00:07:00.003+08:00

Bevan and Berton upsets each other every 5 minutes - altenate with toys grabbing, difference in opinion, and fighting. Usually ends with Bevan shouting at Berton, and Berton kicking or pinching Bevan.

But when Berton climbs high, Bevan scolds Berton "Berton it's dangerous, come down!". When someone gives Bevan something, Bevan says "Can I have one for me, one for MY BROTHER?" When Berton wakes up and Bevan is not there, he asks "Where is Gege? I want to fellow (follow) Gege." The love is blossoming. They know they are both "Heng Heng" in mandarin.

Berton sends and picks up Bevan from school. They dance, swim, sleep, and bathe together Sometimes, on extremely good days, they kiss and hug each other.

It's really nice to have someone so close, look rather alike, with the same surname, similar names, with same parents and live in the same house, growing up together. It's a kind of connection that I am glad my children have together.

June 2009

2009-06-28T01:15:00.000+08:00

A Brave Princess

2009-06-25T23:49:00.004+08:00

I havewritten about a little girl who is fighting against the cancer monster. Honestly, and shamefully, I had tried not to visit their blog because it made me feel so heavy and so sad inside. Tonight I clicked on the URL again, hoping to read good news. It has a bit of good news, but it made me cry really bad reading how her mom explained to her about removing the monster, the pain she went through, and how brave she is.

They now need $500k for treatment, and still short of $200k. Please help again if you can.

Account Details:
POSB savings a/c 249-28205-7

The blog
http://ourfeistyprincess.blogspot.com/

Berton @ 2y3m

2009-06-21T01:08:00.006+08:00

There must be something about being 2 years old that parents don't understand.

My 2yo would insist to hold a spoon, a mickey mouse, a toy horse and a toy car, with his right hand left hand right leg left leg, to sleep together. He would sometimes knock his head on my lips, and laugh in the most irresistable bablish way. He had fun, the poor mommy had a broken lip. He would also insist to wear the Hawaian-print shorts to a 5-star hotel, and a bathing towel over his head to birthday party. It's as if he has a PHD in Stubborness.

My little baby has attended play school for 2 terms. He expresses an unusual and distinctive love for guitar, just like how his brother loves construction. It's their signature favourites. The whole family speaks english with a singlish touch, he speaks with american accent, you should listen to him when he says "Look everyone! Mommy carry me now." and "No, not 1. Maybe there's 2 cats?" and "Gege, don't whine, must share."

I used to worry that everyone is not giving attention to Berton. Now Berton has taken over the throne, grandparents bring Berton to restaurants every Monday, feed him the same forbidden junk foods which Bevan enjoyed (Bevan is now trained to say no to the basic junk food like nuts chocolate, occationally). He is the little baby.

I hope he would look a bit more like me slowly. Hey I gave birth to him, but he is the exact replica of his daddy.

Bevan's Hospital Stay

2009-06-14T16:47:00.009+08:00

Every few days or weeks Bevan has a cough. It's a cough that used to make him vomit at night. We'd seen PD from Thomson Medical, United Square, Forum, KK, all had concluded that even though a simple cough could sometimes develop into Bronchitis, it's really common in young children, Bevan would most likely grow out of it. We should just take care of his environment - avoid pets, dirty aircon, dusty carpet. So far Singulair was the best medicine prescribed. Which is a lung tonic with no side effects. We live with it very well. He no longer vomits when he coughs.

So when he started coughing on Friday, we were all ready to change bedsheets at its worst. However, because Bevan insisted to see a doctor (he quite enjoy chatting with a doctor), and Daddy found him a little more breathless, Daddy brought him to see the KK doctors, which was the only PD working at night.

I waited at home for Daddy and Bevan to come home. I was really shocked when Daddy reported that Bevan was undergoing oxygen tests, blood tests, x-rays, inhaler puffs! I waited confidently at home for the results. And finally got a even more shocking call from Daddy, that Bevan was going to be admitted. The reason - his oxygen index was below 95, even after several puffs. I grew up thinking hospital stay is really serious and not pleasant, I asked the doctor over the phone, could we observe him from home, she said no.

So I rushed to the hospital with all the neccesaties like favourite toy, mickey mouse, smiley ring. When I lied beside Bevan at the hospital the first night while Daddy, who was still in work attire went home, I was still wondering if the doctor was trying to fill up the bed occupancies (I am sorry).

It was really hard for Bevan to sleep well. First he was really excited about sleeping out. Then every hour the nurse came in to check temperature, oxygen, feed medicine, make inhaler puffs. Also, the air-con was definitely too cold. I was shivering, sneezing, cramping on my foldable-bed, comforting Bevan who got woken up too often. And suddenly, the alarm on the oxygen level, which was hooked on Bevan's toe, sounded! The nurse came in, tried to improve Bevan's oxygen index by winding up his bed, changing his sleeping position, still it maintained at 91. I suspected the functionality of the machine and hook it on my own toe, it showed 100. She brought in the oxygen mask! That was when I started to see the point of admission. That was our first night.

Bevan's was much better in the morning. I naively hoped that the doctor would let us discharge during the morning review. I was, like I said, naive. Because of the night report. Daddy took leave to take over the day shift. I got constant updates from Daddy that Bevan's oxygen index was stable at 96 to 100. I took over the night shift again, but in long pants and sweaters. With lesser interference and clear expectations, Bevan slept better on the second night.

In the second morning, Bevan was all ready to go home. Bevan made lots of good nurses friends, who gave him stickers, high-5. He was a really co-operative little patient, who treated the blood test as something exciting and heroic, inhaler as toy, medicine as sweets. The day-and-night-shifts made us the best planning parent partnership. I wouldn't say it's a nice experience, but it made us overall more comprehensive of his condition, and we will surely be more cautious about what to avoid, so as to not go back anymore. It's good to be home.

The Subway Diet Plan

2009-06-10T22:02:00.007+08:00

I know myself. I look the best at 49kg, 51kg is the max. Anything beyond, people start asking if I'm pregnant again.

When I was about to get married, I was on non-carbo diet. It's easy. I ate yong tao foo, ban mien with no noodle, grill chicken chop with no fries, not joking I have once asked for chicken rice with no rice. I successfully made myself a 48kg bride (from 54kg of office-sitting-fats). I was proud of that! I have been sharing my non-carbo tricks with friends and my mom. I used it again after first baby, and it worked again, I reduced to 49kg mom (from 60kg of postnatal-fats).

After 2 babies, lots of i-need-the-energy excuses, no time to have dinner before 930pm, not to mention how destressing food is, I have been eating like a farmer. I love rice, and I can't stop until I get to the bottom of it. I know I have to do something. But I really can't go non-carbo this time, I really need the energy!

I did my home work. I know that we should keep below 40g of fats intake daily to reduce weight. Laksa is 32g, chicken rice 28g, so they are out. Penang laksa 2g, fish porridge 3g. And a new discovery, subway! Teriyaki, ham, turkey breast, 6g. I have to bear in mind not to toast, add cheese (3g/pc), or add mayonnaise (12g). Just keep it simple, add cucumber, tomato, lettuce, and honey mustard (0g).

So this is my new subway diet plan, hopefully it works, and I can wear something tight again.

Tokyo Fashion - Part 1

2009-06-05T00:52:00.005+08:00

There is this girl who always inspire me in her dress sense. She has never failed come to my shop with something new and inspirational - shirts, dresses, jackets, shoes, bags, with little ribbons and lace which I love, in sweeeet pastel colors. I thought she spent thousands dollars per piece, but she told me today that she bought from some neighbourhood booths selling Tokyo or Korea fashion!

Here I am happily sacrifising my sleeping hours, frantically browsing through online for Tokyo fashion. I am so so attracted. I regretted for being so fashion-ignorant to buy from the branded stores. The clothes from the online stores are so interesting, so girlish, so attractive. The prices are also unbelievable!

The first e-shop I am going to try is http://www.mayuki.com.tw/. It's a Taiwanese website selling Tokyo fashion. Oh man, look at the lace, the ribbons, the sweet little skirts... yummy.

Now that a good website is found, the orders are to be placed, I just have to make sure I am as slim as the models before the clothes arrive.

Opposites Attract

2009-06-02T22:55:00.010+08:00

My hubby and I came from Venus and Mars, respectively. Let's not talk about the big things like personalities, hobbies, principals, values, beliefs. For the smallest things in life -

1. Curtain
He thinks there are some are binoculars around the windows, so curtains have to be down at all time. I think my neighbours are not interested in how I eat or skip around the house, I like curtains up. So we are ready to fix our poor curtains once a year.

2. After Work Activity
I like to chat. He likes to watch TV.

3. TV programs
I like TVB series on VCDs. He like channel-switching to watch news all over again in different languages. So we face different monitors at night.

3. Property search
He looks at the views, the facing, the quality of internal fixtures. I look at the total price, and the discounts.

4. Car
I like any car that can move with a working air-con. My dream car was a pink picanto. He once spent all his savings on a sports car. Luckily that's before we met.

5. Sports
He likes the gym, jogging and sports of any kind. I, if I ever do any sports, it has to be pretty (like dancing), or involves comfortable group of nice people (like 2X2 badminton).

6. Food
He likes green vegetables, chinese dessert soup, and fried crispy stuff. I like meat, cheesecake, and grill or steam with lots of saltish gravy. To accomodate, we order what I like and what he likes and put on lots of weight.

I read somewhere that, when it comes to choosing a mate, we subconsciously drives towards people with greater genetic differences. Just like batteries creates energy with opposite signs. I like to assume the greater difference in DNA, the more compatible the couple is.

Oh we are such a compatible pair.

Daddy The Parent-Helper

2009-06-01T22:47:00.001+08:00

In the name of Daddy-should-have-more-bonding-time-with-the-kids, and knowing how inspirational a-parent-helper-session is, when teacher asked for parent-helper for the zoo trip, I signed hubby up. I had to convince him that this was not a sabotage.

Hubby's deepest impression after the zoo trip was "Bevan is so well-behaved when he is with teachers and classmates! If only he behaves like that at home too."

Random Updates

2009-05-25T09:46:00.010+08:00

1. The boys took turn to have fever last week. For the entire week, I slept between the boys, woke up at 3am to feed paracetamol, to catch the running noses with every sneeze. Daddy Koh fell sick too after numerous rounds of midnight-40-degrees-scare and unconditional kisses from the boys.

2. To cheer everyone up, I bought this supposedly-a-toy Sushi Maker to make Sushi together (its $39.90 at Takashimaya toys department. Really fun!). It's so easy, it rolls rice into perfect sushi rolls. We, especially me, (or maybe only me), had lots of fun. We made luncheon meat sushi rolls for the adults, and carrot sushi rolls for the kids.

3. A little N1 child from Bevan's school was down with Impetigo, it's a contagious skin infection. The school teachers called up all the parents urgently, because N1 and N2 children share the same playground and toilets, so we have to observe the possible symtoms. Parents' lives are just full of new challenges and new knowledge.

4. The new business hours on Saturday (11am to 3pm), started in May, work out really well. The appointments are still fully filled, and the good thing is, by 330pm on Saturdays, I am free! I usually take a short walk in town, and join the kids for outdoor activities after they wake up at 5pm.

5. The plan to move office has been held up, because Shaw Centre is now counter offering a lower rental. Even if I stay, the re-orientation plan starting from July, will not change.

6. Bevan had his first supper. He had fever and missed his dinner. At 1145pm, he told me he was hungry, I cooked noodle for us, sat down together for a book and noodle. We chatted about how tomato soup is not nice because its sour, and that I should have just added Marmite.

Earth Day

2009-05-18T01:25:00.004+08:00

We attended an Earth Day event organised by the management of our Holiday Home.

It's held at a big field. They set up a really unique Mini Zoo, where you get to see baby tiger cub and other rare animals (you can tell I don't know the names of the rare animals, a few looked like big lizards) really closed-up. The kids got to run so freely on a big field, they flew home-made kites (there was a booth to make kite with recycled sticks and plastic), and rode the horse. It was a precious back-to-nature trip for the boys.

Being A Woman

2009-05-13T22:41:00.007+08:00

The thing about a woman, is that, there are lots of ups and downs, in our hearts.

During the downtimes, I only see darkness. I feel that my hubby and I are on different wavelengths. I feel that my kids are not well behaved and missing out lots of fun. I feel that my business is harmful to health as I trembled, shivered, while swollowing lunch with fear of running-out-of-time and fear for the increasing profits but exploding expenses! I feel the UV lights in my shop is causing headache and dark spots on skin. I feel my colleagues are not able to take up more responsibilities and I'm trapped. I feel self-pitiful that I have no help from family, at all, on childcare.

Basically everything is wrong, and that was last week. I was so emotional and so unstable and so weak.

But I don't know why, everything just turn around today! I feel that my hubby and I are complementing each other! My kids are the popular darlings in their classes, they are so adorable - Berton tells jokes and Bevan plays piano! My business is thriving, and no matter how tough, we are net-profitting, at this time! We probably perform better than Nissan, Citibank, Toyota, Toshiba last quarter! Wow!! Who needs family intrusion in childcare, I set my own rules to raise my kids, we love each other so much!

I was surfing for some powered rider for my little princes for the holiday home, while watching jackie cheung concert, I told my hubby that I am really happy and we are so lucky.

Is there something to do with food? Or drink? Or TV show? Or what is it?! Oh my.

I Love You Mummy

2009-05-10T23:22:00.008+08:00

Bevan ran in to my shop after class, shouted "Mommy I love you! Happy mother's day!". Everyone went "Ai yoh... so sweet..." That was not all, he passed me a gift, and it was a photoframe he made in class.

It was such a loving moment. That's the first time I get a mother's day present. So I didn't care about the many pairs of eyes watching and waiting. I squad down to hug him and read the message behind. It was something typed out with teacher's help. The mesage sounded so Bevan-ish, with his kind of grammar, and his way of asking for candies in a nice way. That made it so lovingly personal.

"Dear Mummy, I love Mummy. I like you Mummy. Mummy, can you please help me and give me surprise. Give me something nice. Mummy is good girl. Mummy I love you. Love, Bevan"

My heart melted all over the place immediately. My baby boy could make a card for me! I love the gift so much, it was beside me all the time that night.

Moving House 10: Sold!

2009-05-07T23:18:00.008+08:00

Our first home is sold!

We signed on the dotted line to sell our first home on May day. With our plans ahead, it became a matter of deal price, date to handover, and we wanted to arrange it to coincide with our Holiday Home TOP, so that the items are shifted over without too much logistic issues. It became nothing sentimental.

When all was settled, I started to get a little sentimental about it. It's our first home. It's the home we carried newborn Bevan and newborn Berton to, it's where they first swam, and it no longer belong to us.

But Bevan assured me,
"Mommy I don't like L***dale anymore, I like L*****e Farm now." (the holiday home

O.k.a.y.

Boylington

2009-05-04T23:47:00.004+08:00

Hi everyone, meet Boylington.

Bevan has been asking for a doll for so many months.
"Why would you like to have a doll Bevan?"
"So that I can carry him and take care of him."
"Berton can be your doll, you know"
"But he doesn't let me carry, Mommy."

So we went on a mission to look for a doll. He picked a boy, and I like the doll myself! I think the doll looks like Bevan. We have been bathing him, change him into outdoor attire in the day, pyjamas in the night, feed him with milk, change his diapers. We even have to kiss him goodnight. He has his own blanket, bed, hat, shyringe for feeding medicine.

As for his name, Bevan started with Lucky, to Isty, Boylinton, Donontontin, and then decided to go back to Boylinton.

Luckily Boylinton doesn't wake up for night feed.

Me A Parent-Helper

2009-04-29T23:50:00.009+08:00

Bevan's teacher sent me an email requesting for parent helper in their science/cookery lesson. I was excited to join Bevan, but at the same time - I can talk about 4Cs, can I make a nice Banana Surprise?! With 8 little 3-4yos?!

I made it. It was fun! It's more serious and disciplined than the 2yo PlayClub I attends with Berton (and Bevan when he was younger). I could even imagine myself being one of the children. Kindergarten used to be rather scary to me. I wonder is Bevan feeling the same. I sat with the children for storytime, hugging Bevan. We made the Banana Surprise

1. Peel the skin
2. Slice the Banana
3. Put the slices in a plastic cup
4. Scoop and drizzle chocolate fudge
5. Sprinkle rainbow candies
6. Cover the cup
7. Put on the other table

They were so disciplined. Including Bevan! They didn't snatch, they take turns, didn't sprinkle too much, didn't spill. I cannot believe Bevan could do that, he is alot more disciplined than I thought. He could placed the cups, the books, the toys, away so nicely.

I learnt about his friends' name - Yi Hao (who bullied Earnest and was sent to naughty corner when I was there), Seraphina (who can't spell her name because it's too long), Earnest (the good friend), and many more. Bevan is more open to tell me about his classmates now. I could really think a bit more from his point of view - on how I am not the one fetching him to school, forgetting to dress him up in their party attires (parties are so important to them!) etc.

I told the teacher I am ready for more parent-helper-session. On a side note - what a good school, I think they are preparing us parents for primary school volunteer work.

2 Become 1

2009-04-28T10:00:00.002+08:00

We had been having the luxury of 2 domestic helpers for the past 1.5 years – 1 from Philippines, 1 from Indonesia.

The good thing is - we can go out for dinner with (somewhat) peace of mind when the kids are asleep, knowing that even if 2 wake up at the same time wanting attention at the same time, we have 2 helpers, 1 to 1. When the kids are shouting for mommy when I am attending to customers, I have 2 helpers to pull 2 kids away.

The bad thing is - sometimes I feel like having 2 maids 2 kids are like having 4 kids. There are discipline problem (off days, handphones, boyfriends, sneaking out), fighting problem (pushing responsibilities to each other), bad influence on each other. And of course privacy is obsolete in Littlekohs.

The Great Incident - The Pilipino helper had some extraordinary enquiry (like always) on her benefits. During our discussion, we found out a boyfriend that comes to our place. This, together with her work attitude, we decided that we had enough.

It’s been 1 for the past 1 week. I’ve become more hands on, less (or no) me-time. It’s another incident that makes me re-orientate my focus. It’s messier, more stress, but less trouble. I think my kids are ready for more independence. We are adjusting to it, I think I am happier.

Funny Faces

2009-04-23T23:06:00.006+08:00

Bevan has always love making funny faces. He could change from Happy to Very Happy to Surprise to Angry to Thinking to anything at snap of the fingers.

Berton, is catching up really fast with his big brother. For now, he loves acting Happy, Surprise, and either Act like a tiger, or got Scare by a Tiger.

Bimbo Moment

2009-04-20T23:46:00.007+08:00

He is so cool. He can sing, dance, original, with theatre experience. Most importantly he is super good looking! I (and also my hubby) behave like crazy little fan infront of TV each time he performs in American Idol. Even nasty Simon said

"You really have emerged tonight as a star."
"Words aren't necessary, but I'm going to give you a standing ovation."

So I reeaally need to share - click here and here to watch my favourites.

New Appointment Hours

2009-04-16T18:48:00.002+08:00

We usually receive many times more orders on a Saturday. It's not easy to shorten Saturdays appointment hours, from a business perspective. But I did it, from a happy mommy's perspective.

(Extended weekdays hours. We have been ending later than that anyway, this is to make it official)

My Littlekohs

2009-04-13T00:00:00.004+08:00

There was a time when the littlekohs were really terrified of their Daddy.

Littlekohs' Daddy is a strict disciplinarian. When a strict disciplinarian has a stressful job (which requires waking up early and meeting clients), hands on attitude towards kids (like waking up a few times to check if they still have their blankets on and they didn't roll to the edge of bed), a wife with frequent migraines. There are lots of tension within, lots of tension external, lots of tension in the family.

So he became really irritable to the kids' mistakes, whinning, fighting, crying. Which can be seen as creative, exploring, active when a parent is in an EXTREMELY good mood.

Bavan said "I don't want Daddy because he always scold me very loud."

We asked Berton over and over again
"Does Mommy loves you? "Yes. I love Mommy also."
"Does Daddy loves you?" "NO. But I love Daddy"

But the 9 days of separation was a turning point. They missed each other so much, and lives have changed so much. Daddy becomes more understanding and more patient. Bevan knows that there's some activity that's only fun to play with Daddy, he now wants Daddy to carry all the time. Berton now gets comfortable attention from Daddy and Mommy. It has been more than a week, and looks like the father-and-sons bonding is going stronger.

This, is truly the greatest gift we got from Japan.