Life's Little Ups & Downs

Trip - Jan 2012

2012-01-23T17:56:00.000+08:00

Lots of interesting activities this year.

First, we performed in an orchestra with a real conductor. It was amazing...I meant both the experience and the conductor. The whole co of I don't know how many hundreds were divided into groups that played different instruments - violin, cello, trumpet, clarinet, drum, tombolo, choir, etc.... I played the cello. I thought it was a very elegant instrument (despite having to open your legs wide to put the cello in between) to play vs trumpet, clarinet... We had 45mins to practise our parts with a real member of the orchestra. Then we practised with the conductor whom I was totally impressed with. He spoke at least 5 languages during the practise - Spanish, French, Italian, English, Dutch (?)... How he could bring so many parties first individually practising with him and later all together. I was truly amazed and impressed. A real, real experience.

That night, we left for the seminar at Chateauform - my second one since I joined the company. The first one was 2 yrs ago during my first seminar. I thought this was better, except the stupid bath area design in my room - the shower head was spraying onto the sink and wet all my toiletries! The glass was on the side of the shower head and I didn't know what purpose that served! The room was huge and sparse, I felt like I was sleeping in an attic with a slanted ceiling and a small unreachable window at the top.

Team building the next day was....BOWLING! It was fun. I won the best female bowler :). Bunn asked if the French were bad or I was really good. I did ok but could be better, so I think they were not very good.

That night's gala dinner was a movie theme. We had already prepared (rented) our costume back home and brought it there. Our group was Roman theme. Guys as gladiators, women as Cleopatra + 3 maidens and a Xena. In our Roman costume, we ended up looking like angels instead..haha! It was fun. Everyone was dressed up - Star Wars, Wonder woman, Bollywood, gangsters, pink panthern, etc, etc..

Last day, we had some presentations and after, divided into groups again to shoot a film each. It was hilarious...again, amazed at the creativity of each group. This trip truly brought out the talents and creativity in the people of the co. This was truly the aim of the whole seminar, and opening a new chapter in our new org structure.

Pixie, pixie...!

2012-01-23T17:28:00.000+08:00

Tada! Here it is! Petite as its name suggests....

Paris

2012-01-17T10:21:00.000+08:00

Sleepless in Paris...at 3am. Went to bed at 10pm, too tired but got up when the phone beeped with a message. Will try to get some sleep again.

Bought my Pixie, the coffee machine I have been dreaming about for the past 8 months. Indigo or orange... both colours look good. I went for indigo. I think I am kinda overdone with the capsules. Bought 16 tubes = 160 capsules! Should last me for a year, or 2! Can't take pic now cos they are all neatly packed in the luggage now. Think I'm gonna start offering coffee tasting!

Total damage = 200 euros (including a descaling kit for cleaning) = $340.
The cost back home is $389 (just the machine). Wait, I will get back 50euros but they only send back the money to a french bank account. So I am getting my colleague to help me with that. Wait, did I mention de-tax of 22 euros? If all these get through, the cost will be S$220. Oh, don't forget this is the cost of the machine + 160 capsules + a descaling kit vs $389 just for the machine!

The only thing I didn't get right was I changed my euros too fast. As soon as it dropped to 1.69, I thought I got a good deal with euro being less than 1.7. Few days after that, it dropped further to 1.64. Ok, but at least the whole purchase made me feel good! Will show a photo soon....

1st post of 2012!

2012-01-08T22:44:00.002+08:00

Have not been active in updating... blame it on fatigue! It's a good excuse.

How has 2011 been? Busy and tired, and not so peaceful... I hope 2012 will be a much better year. According to the Chinese horoscope reading, next year is not going to be a good one for me...sigh... Anyway, just take it as it comes, don't read too much into it.

Last week was first week of school, not an issue for Kang entering K2 but quite a big deal for Le entering P3 and attending morning school for the first time. Went quite smoothly... except that I am losing my beauty sleep by 1hr per day!! I think it is manageable when I don't have to bring work home. But when the cycle starts again and work needs to be done at night, I will really be zombed out!

It's also a brand new routine for us with Le coping with morning school, extra training, new classes for English and Maths. We decided enough is enough, we can't coach anymore, too tired from everything... We have persisted for 2 years, we monitored her progress for 2 years, we decided that with her spending double the time in training now, we have to outsource in order to keep her disciplined. If she gets through all these and yet fare well, I think it's a big achievement. Let's see.

Last week after first training, she cried...saying it was too tough... She was hungry and tired after 3hrs... after dinner, she was a different person and all was forgotten. Today after the 2nd training, she said she doesn't want to go tomorrow, too tired...whined...again too hungry and tired... after dinner, again she was different... let's see.

I always think Kang is more 文....

....and Le is more 武

We will know years down the road....

LA & Vegas - 24 to 30 Nov

2011-12-01T19:29:00.001+08:00

The long-awaited break of the year finally came! After much back and forth, we finally settled on a week break to Los Angeles and La Vegas.

Day 1 & 2: 24, 25 Nov
We arrived in LA on Thanksgiving day, where almost everything was closed. The flight was long and difficult (1 stop over at Narita), couldn't sleep properly plus nose was so stuffed up from the flu. After taking our rental car, we drove to the hotel.

First thing we did after we settled in was to zzzzz!! We were tired from the flight, plus we have to stay up the night for Thanksgiving midnight madness sale at the factory outlets!

We got up after 4 hours of sleep close to 8pm and was soooo hungry! First meal in LA - Subway. How boring but everything was closed and this Subway was near the hotel and was opened 24 hrs.

Everything was really quite crazy at the outlet, starting from 10pm. We went to Citadel outlet, recommended by the hotel staff. It was the only one in LA, 40mins from our hotel, but much smaller than the few premium outlets outside LA. Nobody seemed to want to sleep that night! A lot of shops had queues, long queues to enter. We bought most of our Christmas presents here.

At 1am, we were hungry and bought some Chinese food to eat. After that, we decided to chiong to another outlet - Desert Hill premium outlet, pretty far off, 1hr 15mins drive from Citadel.

Bought some more stuff and by the time we finished roaming around, it was dawn! There were still queues outside the more popular brands. We left at around 7a.m, would take us almost 2 hrs' drive to go back!

We rented the car for only 1 day and had to return by 1pm. We did just in time.
Decided to go for our lunch at Hard Rock Cafe along Hollywood Boulevard which was within walking distance from our hotel.

Hangover from shopping throughout the night!

I never really had my lunch cos I rejected the steak twice when it was too done vs the medium I wanted. When Bunn finished his ribs, we decided to go and not wait anymore. We wondered if we should dong till evening before hitting the sack or just go back and sleep. But we were already too tired from not sleeping the whole night.

We slept...from 3+pm and when I woke up, it was 11.30pm! What a mess our sleep has become. Got up to do some surfing...and plans for the next day. Bunn got up a little later. Thought we should still go back and sleep so that we have energy to do the touristy stuff the next day. Laid in bed for like 5hrs, couldn't sleep. At 6+am, decided to wake up and get breakfast. Since I rejected the steak, and my last meal was the Chinese food at the outlet, I have not eaten for more than 24hrs!

Day 3: 26 Nov
After breakfast, we walked along Hollywood Walk of Fame. It was early but it would be good to take photos when the crowd is not there yet. Bunn did a planking!

We took a 2-hr tour to be driven around Beverly Hills to see celebrities' houses. Was busy snapping away as the tour guide pointed out to us who lived where...after that, I realised I don't remember them at all! Except for Elvis Presley at 1174 when he was alive. Many celebrities really live or lived here - Brad Pitt and Angelina Jones, Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Lopez, just to name a few.

The weird and interesting landscaping, the unique postboxes that people living in Beverly Hills had... the famous Rodeo Drive where the rich and famous do their shopping. Here you don't find Black Friday sale!! A very entertaining ride!

Then we took a ride to where we could take a photo of the Hollywood sign.

Hollywood Boulevard was closed off for the setting up of a Christmas parade that we will miss the next night!

That evening, Madame Tussaud!

And after, Cirque du Soleil Iris at Kodak Theatre. This was truly awesome, a show really worth watching and spending on!

Day 4: 27 Nov
Today, we departed for Vegas early in the morning. Bus pickup was 7a.m, then it went around picking some more people before heading towards Vegas. The distance from LA to Vegas is about 5.5hrs. Glad we took a bus instead of driving ourselves. At the rate we slept, we definitely won't have enough rest to do the journey ourselves. It is better to leave the stress to someone else while we napped or enjoyed the ride.

Reached Vegas at 1.30p.m, checked in hotel, had some lunch and then hit the premium outlets again! Especially since there is nothing much to do in the day and Vegas' life starts only at night.

We came back from shopping, tired and hungry. Had dinner at Outback and then started roaming the streets. Each hotel is so big with the space it needs for casino. Once inside, you get totally lost cos each is so big and has so many exits! Tried our luck at some games at the casino in our hotel.

Finally went to bed at 3.30a.m. Our sleep has really been topsy-turvy. We decided to wake up naturally, no alarm, no disturbances. When I woke up, the clock on the bedside was 7.30. Bunn got up a little earlier. When he drew the curtains, it was still dark. Funny...does the sun rise later in Vegas? After checking the time on my phone, I realised it was 7.30 PM!! We had slept through 1 day for about 16 hrs!!! Wow, how dangerous is waking up naturally!! Ok, 1 day is gone and it is night time again, we will have problem sleeping again!

Went out for dinner and roamed around the streets again.... and booked a tour to Grand Canyon for the next day.

Day 6: 29 Nov
Of course couldn't sleep last night and laid in bed for few hours before getting up early today for the tour to Grand Canyon. Again, I was glad we took a tour instead of trying to drive ourselves. It's a 3.5hrs drive from Vegas.

At on the way back to Vegas, we passed by Hoover Dam, not stopping, just taking pics quickly from the bus as it slowed down.

The tour took the whole day. We reached back Vegas in the evening.
Tonight, we watched Cirque du Soleil KA. Mm..I must say this is rather different and abstract, less acrobatic. I don't enjoy it very much and I won't pretend to enjoy just cos it's by Cirque du Soleil.

After the show, we bought our supper back to the room to eat. Foot long hotdog, and our own concoction of Screwdriver.

Happy 11th wedding anniversary, Bunn!

Today, we celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary (from ROM; 10th from customary), 19th year of being together! Wow, what a long time!

Day 7: 30 Nov

Today is pretty much an idling day as well. We are going to take the bus back to LA at 3pm. Decided to hit the outlet one last time to do whatever last minute shopping in the morning. Bus ride back is another 5.5hrs, checked into an airport hotel and be ready to go back to reality tomorrow.

It's the end of our week holiday. Not too long but not too short either. Time to go back and face the kids, and work again....

School concert - 20 Nov

2011-12-01T16:30:00.000+08:00

Kang's first school concert. I think he was really excited!
Look at how he's so careful about his hair.

Invitational competition - 6 Nov

2011-12-01T16:22:00.001+08:00

Have been missing quite a no. of posts...

This took place on 6 Nov. A small scale competition, more like a club competition. Well, a competition is a competition. Each one has to be taken seriously, each one is an experience.

Le did quite well. But sgain, could be better. Her coach said she usually performed better at trainings. She did 4th in floor and bars, 3rd in vault, 2nd in beam, 3rd all round (or 2nd, I think there was a tie and mistakenly placed in 3rd).

Bowling

2011-11-16T22:20:00.000+08:00

Haven't played for years...ha, luckily still have got some touch!
Unfortunately, I faltered at the last game. Otherwise I could have stayed at the top 3. Anyway, I did the women proud!

My team came in 1st! And the prize is an ipod shuffle!

Working from home...

2011-11-01T13:30:00.000+08:00

...is not so easy in busy period. It's practically work round the clock...
This is what I have been doing.

Wake up, prepare breakfast, have breakfast with Kang.
Wash him up, wash myself up. Settle down to do work; let Kang do some writing and colouring.
Then it's time to prepare lunch, and have lunch.
Wash up after lunch while Kang watches some CD.
Then it's time to rock him to sleep. While rocking, I read my notes.
When he's asleep, I quickly turn on my computer again. Make full use of the peace to do whatever is possible!
When he is awake, do some reading or activity with him.
Then it's time to prepare dinner. While doing so, let him continue the CD he did not finish earlier.
Then eat dinner, wash up...entertain him for a while till his bedtime.
Hit the computer again while he's alseep.

Not fun after all.

All down...last (wo)man standing!

2011-11-01T13:25:00.000+08:00

The past weekend was a dreadful one. Had initially planned to have a little post-exam celebration by going out with the kids and bringing them to their favourite restaurant - Sushi Tei or Jack's Place. But got stuck at home cos of Kang. Le stayed over at mil's. Thank goodness we have help.

Then plan B was to go out with Le on Sun since she doesn't have training. A girls' outing, so nice! She chose Orchard Road and we arranged that I will pick her at 1pm. We made the arrangment on Sun morning when she woke up and called me.

Then late morning, MIL called and said Le seemed feverish. So, there goes our plan.
Then late morning, Bunn came back from soccer and said he didn't play, he seemed feverish. Double, triple SIAN!! So everyone was down, I was the last one standing, still recovering from my past week's sore throat and headache. It was a truly dreadful weekend.

Somehow for Le, it seems like a "curse"...She will always be sick before a competition.
It happened for the past 3 times without fail. Actually early last week, I was still thinking about it. So, she didn't break the tradition after all!

On a brighter side, it's better this week than next or last. Cos next week, work wouldn't allow me to take leave. Last week, it was Le's exam. So it's not so bad after all.

Absence makes the heart grow fonder

2011-11-01T13:17:00.000+08:00

It was good to have the 2 kids separated for some days. Barely 1 month after getting hfmd, Kang got it again!! How is it possible? Managed to get Le to stay away. Not seeing her for some days, Kang said he missed jie jie and wanted to make her a card on Sat. Sun morning, he said he really missed her and wanted another card.

Maybe it's not a bad idea to separate them permanently!
It will be good for their souls, and ours! Definitely better quality of life for us!

I hope this is the last round plsssss!

HFMD

2011-10-04T22:33:00.000+08:00

Both kids were down with HFMD this week. Kang more so, Le on high alert. Anyway both were on MC for 1 week. Luckily, not too serious. Never have I used so much dettol and washed my hands so frequently, with soap in my life!

Cars

2011-10-03T23:03:00.002+08:00

I remember our cars for different parts of our lives. It's funny we never thought of taking photos of our cars except when they get into accident! Anyway, when we had our first car, digital camera did not exist, or at least not to our knowledge.

1st : Ford Laser (silver) - 1st car is always filled with memories. Got it at a good price with some blessing.

2nd: Honda Civic (silver) - $101 COE, it was like striking lottery! Took us through our wedding. Our wedding photo was taken with a then big, chunky 1.0mp Sony ditigal camera that uses diskette!

3rd: Fiat Uno (green) - actually can't remember if this was 2nd or 3rd car but I do remember we had it for a short while. Not much memories except ants cos it was an olddd car.

4th: Toyota Corolla (maroon) - was also a short while but I remember it cos was pregnant with Le at that time and this car always made me want to puke cos of its rumbling!

5th: Mitsubishi Lancer (black) - got this whilst still pregnant with Le, remembered it cos I was glad to stop wanting to puke after the Toyota. Le was born while we had this car, even Kang! This was the car we held on the longest, I think 4 yrs. Managed to find a photo taken with the car. It was Le's first day of school!

6th: Mazda 5 (champagne) - I was thinking very hard which was the car before the current WISH we had. Almost couldn't rememer this car!! Nice car but not fuel efficient and we were eager to get rid of it, too eager maybe....

7th: Toyota Wish (black) - current car, been with us for 3 yrs. Served us well...took us through our first home move, all the bulky Ikea furniture purchases.. and few friends' move.

With each car, Bunn said we would drive for quite a while. The longest were Lancer and Wish, both black cars. Let's see...

Overview

2011-09-19T23:07:00.000+08:00

It was taken from a 55th floor restaurant in Orchard. It was a farewell lunch for a colleague. The view was beautiful. It's funny how when you are at this altitude and you get an overview of this small island; suddenly you get a new perspective, everything looks so small and unimportant, the trouble and worries you have suddenly look so minute. Learn to see things from a new perspective....

提灯笼

2011-09-19T22:58:00.000+08:00

八月十五过中秋, we brought the kids downstairs for a walk with their lanterns. It was quite crowded. After 1 round, we ended up in the playground. Both left their lanterns on the bench and went to play.

Suddenly, I heard Le shouting. She called Kang and brought him towards a girl saying "She is the one, she pushed your lantern down." I quickly went forward to check the commotion and saw how angry Le was. She confronted the girl (around 5 or 6 y.o), raising her voice.

Le: how can you push our lantern down like that on purpose!?

Girl: (pointing to another girl) she asked me to do it.

Le: then you shouldn't listen to her teaching you bad thing!

She then ran off to pick up Kang's lantern.

Through this incident, I saw how Le protected Kang against outsiders. I saw the anger in her and how spontanteous her scolding was. She was not afraid of being confrontation when something wrong is done. I was so proud of her and I told her so. I told her what she did was right even though she shouted at the girl.

Even though she and Kang don't get along and is always quarrelling and arguing with him. Deep in her heart, she loves him a lot... that time when we told her we had to bring Kang to the hospital for thorough check on his swollen front. She immediately cried when she heard and protested.

Let's see in the years to come.

Competition

2011-09-11T22:32:00.001+08:00

3rd competition Le is attending today. Maybe we gave her pressure from the way we talked about this. She told me last night that she is a little scared. And today, we had to be at the venue at 7.45a.m! When I woke up at 6+am this morning, I had such a nostalgic feeling about waking up early to go for competition many many years ago. A little nervous in fact, haha! I guess after watching her for the previous 2 times and knowing she's really not bad, there is some kind of anticipation.

warming up

After the competition, we went for lunch to celebrate Kang's birthday. We were told the prize ppt was at 2pm but not everyone needed to go back. We didn't know if we had to.....

lunch time treat

While waiting for Le to finish her art, we received the results. We were going back!! Surprisingly Le did well, well beyond our expectations - 3rd vault, 5th floor, 5th bars, 3rd individual all round! The 3rd all-round was really a great surprise and a huge confidence booster to her. We told her this was a 'big' competition and to get to top 3, it would mean she was really good.

After the prize ppt, we went to watch Smurfs, a birthday celebration, a celebration for good work! Back home, Le tidied her medals happily.

What a long but fruitful day...by the time we reached home, we have been out for 12 hours straight....

Happy 5th birthday, Kang!

2011-09-11T21:53:00.000+08:00

I hope you will behave much better from now on.

Latest sport

2011-08-06T16:33:00.000+08:00

And this is Kang's latest sport. Finally got him started on proper lesson 2 weeks ago.

National Day display

2011-08-06T16:31:00.001+08:00

Spotted around town near my office.

Happy birthday, Bunn (2 Aug)

2011-08-06T16:26:00.000+08:00

Bunn's birthday but my favourite cake! Ha, this is the best combination!

And look at the present he got for himself. He said he resolves to take up a new sport.

And he is slowly building up his accessories...today, his newly bought helmet!

We fought...and we made up...

2011-07-27T23:21:00.002+08:00

Only thing is how long will this last before the next fight again?
Anyway, I have given up. She will depend on herself. If she makes it, good; if not, that's her life and she will face her consequences in future. In one of our arguments, she said that if she doesn't do well, it is my fault cos I don't coach her. I gave it to her! I told her "My responsibility is to send you to school. It is your responsibility to study and make sure you know your work and do well!"

Our parents never bothered with our work; they couldn't even coach us. Why are we so involved and our kids depending so much on us? Anyway, I have decided to adopt the old school of parenting. Caring less may be better for our relationship.

Today, there is an article on a study conducted by a professor on happiness. I find it a good read. One of the paragraph says that having kids do not necessarily bring happiness to people. The level of happiness has been overstated. People are generally unhappy when their kids are below 5. So true...I am still unhappy till today.

Card

2011-07-10T22:35:00.000+08:00

It's been a long time since I scrapped...I still miss it, just now I really have no time nowadays... I still wish to do it someday...

Durian feast!

2011-07-10T22:32:00.000+08:00

It's been a longgg time since we eat durians right from their husks!
Tasted so much better. Thanks to PBS, we had this feast. Each fruit cost $2, so cheap and good!

And the leftover today...squashy but still yummy! But nothing beats eating right away from the husks!

In KL - 6 to 7 Jul

2011-07-10T22:26:00.000+08:00

Twin towers by the night and day - taken from the hotel room.

Just a thought

2011-06-29T23:33:00.000+08:00

I don't know why I get so upset by this comment... I thought was quite insensitive. Or maybe I am the insensitive one?

A few old girls were getting together and so far 4 of us got connected. I contacted another one who is a SAHM. I have nothing against SAHMs, I totally admire their willingness to sacrifice for their kids and family life sake. In fact, I marvel at them cos I don't think it's something I can ever do well in. But somehow, I can't get pass this comment.

Me: hi, xx, xx, xx and I are meeting for dinner on 18 Jul. We are trying to get more girls to join, can you make it?
Her: ok, let me know where but can we eat at 6pm cos need to be home early for baby?
Me: venue tbc. Time will let you know later but I don't think we can meet so early at 6pm.
Her: where is tbc?
Me: to be confirmed

The text in blue is the one bothering me. Ok, I am highly critical here, not knowing her situation, not knowing why... but I thought she can be more tactful, for e.g "let me know where and what time and I'll see if it fits my schedule, need to be home early for baby". We are all working, how can we eat at 6pm? And I felt that, she has not met us for yrs..she would have met her baby everyday. If her life revolves around her family, then just say can't make it! Yah, yah I am really unfair in my judgment as it's really one-sided but it just bothered me..since this morning when I saw the msg.

Happy birthday - 25 Jun

2011-06-26T01:07:00.000+08:00

The celebration of today...happy 8th birthday, Skye!
Oh, by the way, I get a share of it too. Thanks to her, I now get a cake, a party, a celebration. And people remember my birthday, and wish me "Oh, happy birthday too." or "Oh, by the way, it's your birthday too. Happy birthday!"

Anyway, I get my favourite cake, and eat it!

Piercing ears!

2011-06-19T20:45:00.000+08:00

Brought Le to shop at Orchard for Dad's Father's Day present last night.
Had a good time with her and totally amazed by the various comments she made throughout the night.

When we walked past an accessories shop, she saw the sign on ear piercing. She immediately reacted cos I promised her some time ago to do it during the school hols. And she remembered! After checking the price, it was quite expensive and I told her I have to think about it and we left after checking what time the shop will close. And my, she really nagged and nagged after we walked away, I was sure I wouldn't have peace if we didn't do it tonight.

Me: it's very expensive. Let's find another place that may be cheaper.
Le: But you can draw money.
Me: Yah, to draw money, I must first earn the money.
Le: You can earn from the bank.
Me: !!!

When we were shopping for Dad's present, she really helped. I told her the specs of the wallet I wanted to get and she was looking around. In fact, she found the wallet. I looked around and finally settled for the one she had chosen.

I was looking at an Iphone pouch and was told it cost $270.
Le: What? So much money for such a small thing! We can buy something like that in pasar malam for $2!
Ok...!

In the end, I gave in to her. Firstly cos I promised. Secondly, a little reward for doing well in the Maths paper I asked her to do. Thirdly, a birthday present for her. And there!

It was over in 1 sec. 2 shop assistants did it at the same time, one on each ear.
Me: was it painful?
Le: No, just a little, like an injection poke.
Me: You look pretty.

She was all smiles and I had peace for the rest of the night!
While I was trying some dresses, she went into the fitting room with me. She gave good comments, I must say.
Me: the arm hole is too big, can see my inside.
Le: just wear another shirt inside and wear the same colour bra.
Me: (amused)

Me: I don't usually have time to shop.
Le: is your office near Orchard?
Me: Yes.
Le: Then you can shop during lunch time.
:)

On our way home, Le asked "What do you do after you eat lunch everyday? Do you play?"
Me: (laugh), I don't play, I go back and do my work, only if I need to get presents or things, then I'll go and walk around.

Mmmm...was a fun night!

Dining out...

2011-06-19T20:25:00.000+08:00

...alfresco style, but the cheap way!

Kungfu Panda 2

2011-06-19T20:21:00.000+08:00

Finally got to watch it last weekend! Funny..!

Hong Kong

2011-06-19T20:16:00.000+08:00

Taken from the hotel while waiting for the event to start. Very nice view outside. Kowloon Park, I was told.

Mission accomplished, job well done! Was very happy and decided to give myself a break and not check my mails for the night. Went for a walk around, then back to hotel to order a room service - fried beef kway teow. Looks presentable and appetizing but tasted horrible!!

Some interesting cultural findings the next day. Guess what is the queue for? It's for taking the lift to the upper floors. I can't believe we have to queue for the lift! No escalator? I asked. No, there is no direct escalator going to the higher floors.

Mmm...I asked about the 2 pairs of chopsticks, is one pair for eating and one pair for taking food? Yes. I said I will definitely end up using the one for taking food for eating. I was quite successful in not doing so till halfway through the meal!

In Hongkong

2011-06-08T23:35:00.000+08:00

The first thing that caught me when I entered the hotel room was the Nespresso machine! Oohhh, complimentary good coffee. Of course, I have to make one! Doesn't matter breakfast is not included in the corporate price, this machine is enough!

My dinner was a healthy mushroom and organic veg ramen.

Another great idea I am keeping for my next home! Look at this unique tap!

In Jakarta

2011-06-07T23:10:00.003+08:00

This is my first time in Jakarta. Anyway, SJ and I were talking about it... if not for work, this won't be a place on our priority list for holiday. After all, why would we want to get stuck in the traffic for hours during your own holiday.

Kids

2011-06-07T23:06:00.002+08:00

Kang wanted to watch Kungfu Panda 2. In fact, I want to watch! But Bunn said no cos he will learn to fight even more. He's been begging all weekend. Maybe we will watch after all this coming weekend. Anyway, it's not like his behaviour will be better if we don't watch. Then he hugged the height checkboard when he saw Gnomeo. "I love Gnomeo", he said.

Le has grown. I saw her slim figure with some small muscles on her biceps thanks to gym. She looks really tall and slim, model slim as I watch her in her 3 y.o pants....showing off her legs. I wonder how she would look if she were really grown...

Trip

2011-06-04T23:10:00.001+08:00

Leaving again on Mon for a trip but I think this could be maybe the last for the year I hope...tired, I wanna take some leave for this school holidays but have been quite tied up. Hopefully the last week of the holidays.

Emil Chau concert

2011-05-29T22:39:00.003+08:00

Finally watched our first Emil Chau concert!
Mm...was so-so, expected better.

GymFriendly - 280511

2011-05-29T22:22:00.005+08:00

Le's 2nd competition. Her performance was better than the last cos she was told repeatedly to be serious. But I find the judging quite unjustified towards her. Anyway...she got 5th for floor and bars and her team won 2nd for all-round. Great performance by the girls!

In Beijing

2011-05-25T22:48:00.007+08:00

Landed in BJ last night close to 11pm. By the time I checked in, it was midnight...very tired.

But the moment I entered the room, I got a surprise. The guy at the counter told me I would be getting a 大房, but he didn't tell me it was so 大!! I almost thought maybe they forgot to close the connecting door to the adjoining room! I went round to check, it was a 2-bedroom suite with a kitchen and living room! I called the reception immediately and asked if I can have a normal room. Firstly, I am alone, for business, I don't need such a big room (I would love if I were on holiday, this would be nice for our small family). Secondly, I couldn't find even the simplest room slippers!

I was told there are no more rooms unless I want a room with twin beds. I said no, I want 大床 (but not 大房), and it would be too complicated if I asked them to join the bed, it was late and I was tired. Forget it, I thought.

I on ALL the lights in the suite. I decided to take the room nearest the door in case I need to run out. It was not an en suite vs the other room, but never mind. I started to imagine things...who would be in the living room, the other room, with so much space around..! I on the TV in the living room plus my room. I said I will demand for a change the next day! When it was time for bed, I closed the room's door so that the space looked smaller and more contained.

In Taipei, I took a different hotel from the usual corporate one, simply cos that hotel is well known to be haunted. A colleague who travelled there often laughed and said "just don't stay on 14th floor". After much deliberation, I still decided not to stay here. The colleague travelling with me was surprised when I told him the reason. He found it amusing. Well, if you are not comfortable, just don't, right?

Yes, the best part about staying in a hotel is...you come back every day with the room cleaned up. Ooh..and the staff had arranged my toiletries so neatly!

Oh, of course and no screaming kids!

Good idea!

2011-05-23T23:08:00.004+08:00

It's raining in Taipei... colleague told me they are expecting typhoon in 2 days' time according to their weather forecast. I am glad we would be out by then!

I like the design of the hotel room's toilet! Such a luxury to have a seat inside to blow your hair, do your makeup, etc... Took a photo for reference for my next home! Don't know when lah or in my dreams!

In Taiwan

2011-05-22T22:46:00.004+08:00

Was damn sian when I left home at 10.30am to go to the airport this morning... I am losing my previous weekend flying. But Bunn was right...he said I am going there to 'scold' people but he is going to get 'scolded' !! Well, it's true...it's better to be the client than to be service provider. He is leaving for a trip this week as well and was already pre-empted that it was an "ambush" to be trashed by the client. Poor him...

Landed around 5pm, was 6pm by the time I checked into the hotel. Unpacked a bit and then went out to meet 2 ex-col for dinner. The weather is a little gloomy here...rained a bit.. Came straight back to the room after dinner. Maybe it's the weather, didn't feel like going anywhere else. Maybe it's just me.

How pathetic to show hotel room photo rather than some night market...but it was drizzling...

I think I am a real 华人... I feel so comfortable in Taipei cos of the language (though it's only my 2nd time here), cos of the surrounding where I can understand what's written on road signs... I am looking forward to going to Beijing on Tue, back to the usual hotel, to a place where I can speak and understand the language. Never had such feeling whenever I am in Paris even though I have been there maybe more than 10 times.

On the way from airport, I was talking to the cab driver about the show 爱 ! Can you imagine? Then he said the latest craze now is 夜市人生, I told him it just started showing in Spore. He said it's already 300+ episodes there.... We both commented how drama these dramas are, so much emotions... He said "jiak bng puay dian si jee, 有时候 kuar liao kee gao jiak buay lok". Funny!

Dialogue with principal

2011-05-14T23:03:00.003+08:00

The school invited parents to have a casual, no-agenda dialogue with the principal. Fed up of having to be so involved in their school work, I decided to take leave to attend this session. I wanted to see what other parents think, I wanted to try to be a bit more "chap" in Le's school.

It was a small group of about 40 parents. Phew, I was not the only concerned one but I was worried cos I was the very first one to reach the AV theatre. Quite casual, it was a good session. Principal (P) started by showing us some photos of upper pri's parent involvement in the school, then he threw questions to the floor. Communication with teachers or school, what do we think?

I said there is practically none at all if I don't email the teacher. Even the notebook diary is blank all the time. I said I felt lost and totally did not know what is happening in school! Another parents echoed my feelings. She asked P what was his expectation of his teachers cos they don't communicate with parents, and she could get only 3 words from her kid when she asked "I don't know". How true! Same same! If it's not I don't know, it would be I forgot. P made himself really accessible - if we don't get any response from teachers or school when we write in, forward to him, he will act on it.

P emphasized a lot on value and character building of kids, not academic, especially at young age of P1 and 2. He said we should give our kids the responsibility of having ownership for their own things, and not to be so quick to ask the maid or ourselves to bring whatever the kids have forgotten. Yep, we are already doing that. Told Le to be responsible for her own packing, books, homework, stuff...she faces the consequences. I don't even give her spelling or 听写 really anymore, except when I feel like it. She has to prepare them herself. If she needs help with her work, she comes to me, else I will assume all is fine. I won't check her homework or what she has done. She is supposed to have listened in class and understood the lesson; if she doesn't, she is supposed to ask.

Some parents said yes understood but at the end of the day, psle is across the nation, everyone is facing the same paper, so how can we not be worried about academic. P cited eg of his previousl student not doing well in psle, went to a neighbourhood school and scored 7 in 'o' levels to go to a top JC. Again, he emphasized that if we parents only recognise doing well in psle as success, and it's doomsday if the kids don't do well, we are telling the kids they are doomed! He said we shouldn't think of success only if our kids can get into the R, H or A school. He was really funny.

A parent brought up socio-economic issue, saying how certain lesson should be conducted so as not to induce comparison. For e.g. social study has this topic on types of housing and the teacher asked the students who stay in what type of housing. True, valid point. Another parent added on saying the amount of pocket money given by parents also induce comparison esp when the kids keep going to bookshop to buy stuff. So true! Seems like a lot of parents have this issue, mainly girls' parents!

A parent brought up homework, saying her girl has a lot of homework. A few parents look at each other and we said no leh, very little homework leh... P said P1 and 2 shouldn't have much homework, might be isolated case and to discuss with teacher concerned.

Lower pri has 30 per class, P3 onwards will be 40 per class and there are less classes in P3 than 2, so some from each class will be split into other classes. It is not result base. Those in last 10 in the register no. will be split. A parent asked why last 10, can first 10 or not? He said his kid is in the last 10 and he wanted her to stay in the same class. Mmmm...frankly this never came to me as a concern. Maybe cos Le is quite independent and I don't find it a problem for her. Well, but maybe to some parents, their kids would have problem adjusting and they are concerned. To this, P answered kids are more sociable and adaptable than we adults are. (True, I don't even want to make new friends at my age or make small talk with parents of the same standard!). He asked how can we be sure our kids will stay with the same friends forever? After pri, after sec, after JC.....! Let them learn to make new friends!

In the end, it is always insufficient time, parents get warmed up after some time and started talking. But on the whole, I like the values of P, which are quite similar to ours. It makes me relieve for being so bo chap about Le. I will keep it that way. She will learn and survive...by herself.

Birthday treat

2011-05-14T22:38:00.007+08:00

When I first saw this card in Kang's comm book, nothing caught my eyes except the owl. I thought it was just a postcard, those free-on-the-rack type. When I next saw it again in the comm book, I decided to read it. Oh, it was actually an invite to a kids' birthday party in school. Oh wow, I thought the parents really 用心良苦 to print the card.

I told Kang maybe he should bring a small gift, like stickers or something. He said no need, teacher said no need. Oh well...

Yesterday, Kang came back with a little gift box and when he opened it, I said oh wow again. Inside the box were some tidbits and kids' stuff - stickers, bubble... with the same owl sticker or packed in owl-ed small cartons. Wow, bubble container and sweets in coordinated colour as the owl. Oh wow, how much effort the parents put into this. Very thoughtful...

2 weeks ago, there was an article in the papers about the amount parents splurge on their kids' birthday bashes these days, sometimes even few k$. I really wonder what tick in such parents' minds. I would say that the above is already not the most extragavant example but at the efforts...I marvel. Why do parents spend so much on their kids? Maybe they are rich but the article mentioned not just the "rich" parents, there are more cases of "hdb" parents doing such things too.

My kids will never get such treat from me. Maybe they put me off so much I need to spend money on health tonics instead of on them! Haha! No, but seriously, I don't find this a good way to educate them. They have to learn that money doesn't come by easy!

Food

2011-05-14T22:31:00.001+08:00

Nothing beats watching the kids eat in peace and enjoyment, especially coming from kids who don't eat or eat much!

Musical

2011-05-14T22:25:00.006+08:00

Been ages since I watched a musical. The last one was Les Miserables eons ago! Watched Lion King musical with Bunn on May Day. It was really a spectacular show. Considering such a small stage, all kinds of scenes were depicted in awesome effects. Money well spent!

1st competition

2011-04-30T23:41:00.016+08:00

Today was Le's first competition - Gymfest @ S'pore American School. Almost thought she couldn't make it cos she was sick with throat infection for the past 2 days. This morning, she was still running a slight fever. Gave her medicine and boiled ling yang for her. Anyway, she didn't look lethargic.

Mum was away, so dragged Dad along. How not to when there is professional photography! I think it is great 福气 ... Two decades away, he was taking photos for me; and now, his granddaughter!

Le was still as playful as ever. I don't think she was aware of the seriousness of a competition. But the atmosphere was quite casual. There were many teams from various countries. Kang had his little trial while we were waiting for Le's team to warm up. Not bad! Good posture!

On the whole, Le did ok but she could have done even better if she were more serious. She has potential indeed, the poise is there. But she has to buckle up on her attitude; no point having aptitude without attitude.

The score system has changed, Bunn and I no longer know how to read the score! The competition lasted quite a while. We were there at 11a.m and ended at 3pm+. Le was so hungry!

Then there was the prize presentation. Every participant had a medal of participation. Very nice, I thought...very motivating for kids of their age...well thought. The girls were looking excitedly at their medals, especially 3 out of the team (including Le) were first timers.

Following that, medals were awarded to the top scorers in the various apparatuses. There were 8 positions instead of the usual top 3. Again, I find it very motivating for the young kids. Le's team mates actually did quite well. 2 or 3 of them were in the top 8 for bars, beam and floor. In fact, Le did not bad for bars but just not good enough. But surprise, surprise! When her name was called out for 8th position for vault, we were in for a big surprise! She calmly went up to receive her medal (so like a pro!). So proud of her!! Being a first timer, being sick! This was really a big motivation for her and we hope this will spur her on and make her work harder and change her attitude.

Time to hit home, it was 4pm+ by then. Lunch time! We were all tired but so happy. Didn't waste my effort to double boil ling yang for her!

In the car, Le said to me "Next competition, I want you to put make up for me. Purple on the eyes and glitter on the face, ok? I rolled my eyes. Hiao zar bor!

Election fever

2011-04-30T23:33:00.003+08:00

It's gonna be an exciting one this year!

Cycling

2011-04-23T22:50:00.004+08:00

Another milestone worth documenting.

Yesterday we went to East Coast Parkway to cycle. The bike kiosk ran out of 4-wheeled bikes and I asked Le if she wanted to take a 2-wheeler and learn how to ride. She said ok. Bunn went to her first while I waited with Kang for the 4-wheeler. 10 mins later, someone returned one and Kang took it. We went to find Le a short distance away. When we reached, she was already cycling away quite steadily. I was impressed! She learnt it within a short span of 10mins! Bunn said he was a good teacher! I said no, gym helped!! So proud of her.

And so today, the enthusiasm was still there, we decided she should practise more. Her bike needed to be adjusted for height and removal of the 2 back wheels.

I am still impressed by how she could do it so easily and effortlessly! She definitely enjoyed her new-found 'freedom'!

Kang should still take a while... never mind...

Well, I hope we will have more freedom for ourselves too!

Movie reviews

2011-04-11T23:37:00.002+08:00

Finally watched the much acclaimed "The Black Swan" onboard. I didn't like the show, too dark. Such beautiful dance should be complemented by a better plot. I don't know why it was nominated for so many awards. The story could have developed better. Watched The King's Speech - this one is good, liked it! The Tourist - only watched halfway and the action has not started... wait for next flight to continue!

Pixie

2011-04-10T22:29:00.003+08:00

Ok, I have kinda decided. At my next opportunity, I am going to get this! The newest and most compact coffee machine - Nespresso Pixie @ 149 euros! MK said she can bring one for me back in Jul when she goes for her holiday but I feel bad cos it's bulky.

Maybe in Jan next year... mmm, it pays to wait after all!

Cruise

2011-04-10T22:07:00.004+08:00

The gala dinner was on a cruise along River Seine.. it was a very nice cruise. Weather was cool, not cold! If I didn't feel cold, noboby should; and if I feel warm, it must be really warm!

The original Statue of Liberty

Eiffel Tower light up - glittering lights for few minutes per hour.

Eiffel Tower at night

Being organized...

2011-04-07T06:08:00.011+08:00

... is very important even when travelling. It's a little like trying to make myself feel at home away from home. First thing is of course to organize all the toiletries! Then besides all the entertaining and then emailing late into the night, a chore to do is ironing! Well, in such an important seminar with the whole world here, especially in a chic chic city like Paris, you have to look presentable *yawn*... and then hang up all the clothes so that my efforts are not wasted.

On more motivating stuff....I bought my coffee powder! Almost couldn't make it and almost gave up. But managed just before the supermkt closed.

SJ tempted me by saying Nespresso came up with a new mini version of the coffee machine and it is only 149 euros!! Oh, I am really so tempted... but I just bought the powder only...Mmm, gonna check out the website and think about it... She said if not for the fact she already has one, she would have got it. Ohhh....I am still thinking and weighing. But the price is really good and much cheaper than in Singapore. And the capsules too! Almost half price. So, I am not the only one who is getting coffee powder. SJ said she bought 40 tubes of capsules back!!! 40 tubes x 10 capsules each = 400 capsules!! She beats me! She actually brought a luggage here just to put the capsules!! Now, I am even more tempted!! Should I??

Got shoes for the kids. I am really at a loss what to get for them each time and really the easiest I can do is shoes!

Besides, some workwear I bought, I finally find a decent black sweater I have been looking for but refused to spend too much. Got this Puma one for 18 euros. Good for flights, especially night flights.

Other than that, have fufilled almost all the orders given to me. Such a pleasure to spend without having to consider the price too much cos it's not my money!

Next few days will be intensive meetings...*yawn*...

Orders

2011-04-02T16:46:00.002+08:00

Next week's orders: Bottega, Miu Miu, Longchamp, Chanel.... EL has order for LV. We were discussing between us how people spend their money. And how some women have their husbands pay all their branded goods. Not us, we said... we are more 自动 and we spend our own money. EL: I have nothing to buy leh. Me: At least I win you, I have groceries... I need to buy my coffee powder! LOL!

Health status

2011-04-01T23:39:00.000+08:00

Ulcers, headache, gastric pain.....!!

Gnomeo & Juliet

2011-03-27T21:00:00.002+08:00

We watched this last Sat. It was quite an entertaining show. Was told by some friends not to expect too much from the show, so I really went in without much expectation and I think it was quite good. Kang wanted out (again!) three-quarter through the show but I managed to make him stay. He enjoyed it. Le said so-so...

Broken...

2011-03-21T23:55:00.002+08:00

Some things, when broken, just cannot be mended... Kang accidentally broken one of the Ching ladies... I am sad cos it took me a long time to find something suitable for the display niche. I was very angry at first but Kang apologized profusely and said it was an accident, even Le vouched for him. I relented seeing his innocent look... but some things just can't be mended once damaged..

A sprain

2011-03-12T14:21:00.006+08:00

I told Le: luckily poh poh did not see this, otherwise she is going to complain ''以前你妈妈每次都这样，现在排到你！''.

Chingay Bishan-Toa Payoh

2011-03-04T22:18:00.007+08:00

CNY photos

2011-03-04T21:45:00.008+08:00

Photos taken during CNY, didn't take much this year though....

内心话

2011-02-04T22:47:00.003+08:00

当你有苦，你跟谁说？当你有内心话，你跟谁说？还是日记簿是最好的朋友。。。虽然它不能安慰你，可是它会默默地听你说一切。。。 :)

4th Feb - 1st day of spring

2011-02-04T22:31:00.006+08:00

Today is the 1st day of spring. It is said that this signifies how the rest of the yr will go. If it goes well today, the rest of the year will be. But it did not start well for us. Early in the morning, both kids started fighting and I screamed at them. Then Kang was whacked by Bunn at bfast. It was a day full of screams and shouts. What is new? The rest of last yr was like that too, it won't change this yr too. Some things just never changed... some decision was made 2 yrs ago partly for this reason. Regrets? Yes and no.. More no than yes...

Biarritz

2011-01-29T21:59:00.013+08:00

Last week's seminar was held in Biarritz, a city in south western part of France, about an hour flight from Paris. It is a luxurious seaside town famous for surfing and a very popular city visited by the French during summer time.

We stayed at Hotel du Palais, a luxurious 5-star hotel of the 19th century. It was a summer palace that Napolean III built in 1854 for his wife, Eugenie. Whoa! Such luxury and such a history! The room was full of details and we still use very ancient key to open the door!

As there were many of us, we were divided into 2 groups to take the flight from Paris to Biarritz. I was on the first flight. While waiting for group 2, we had some free time to take a walk along the beach. Just outside the hotel, we saw a row of the 60 yr old cars that our car rally activity will bring us around Biarritz later. Of course I have to choose my favourite blue to take a photo!

A walk along the beach yielded many beautiful photos of this lovely city. It was warmer than Paris but still cold at 10+ degrees!

After lunch, it was the car rally. I chose to be a passenger and luckily I did! Cos the 60 yr old car is not easy to drive, antique manual gear, not power steering, etc...the briefing already sounded so scary and the car seem complicated to drive! We went to several places and along the way, discover the city.

That night, we went to San Sebastian, the capital city in the province of Gipuzkoa, in the Basque country, Spain. Yes, we actually cross over to Spain for dinner! Apparently, it was only a 45mins bus ride. We Asians, due to the jetlag, took every opportunity to nap whenever we could! And this was also when I was beginning to fall sick(since afternoon) - headache, body ache, sore throat...

I took this picture to show how raw the beef was! Eeeks! I tried a few mouthful and after that, it was too much, too raw!

The next day, we had a team building activity, at the stadium of Biarritz Olympique de Basque - the Olympique rugby team and apparently a very very famous top 5 European team! We were there to listen to team work, how the team started from scratch to become top 5 and famous, how the club treasure and value and invest in its people etc.... It's to show that our company and the club are run similarly.

Of course we were also there to work, we had workshops and discussions the rest of the time. And the next day, it was more workshops and then time to flight back to Paris. We reached Paris late afternoon and after dinner, I was the first one to leave on the night flight back to Singapore. Was already sick by then. The moment I boarded, I popped medicine and once take off, lowered my seat immediately to sleep!

Sick!

2011-01-29T21:56:00.002+08:00

What a bad week, on MC for 3 days this week! Caught a bad flu from France and was so weak. Bunn sighed, said each time I come back from a trip, I fall sick. Well, not the last time from Bangkok :P.
Anyway, through this, I realised even more than health is wealth! It feels good to be well again and normal! CNY next week. Well, almost ready. Still left some small area to clean and tidy up but I have already kinda lost steam... especially after falling sick!

Technology

2011-01-12T23:03:00.003+08:00

I wonder what will be our kids' childhood memories in future.... being in the era of Iphone, Ipad, Xbox, Wee (is this how you spell?)

Little contortionist

2011-01-12T22:53:00.004+08:00

Le has made quite a bit of progress in her gymnastics. She's more flexible now.Last Sat, she said she wanted to show me something and not to peep till she told me to. I was very surprised when I turned around and saw her in this position!

Then she showed me how she did it and said she could do better by grabbing further up her ankle. Wow, this really requires flexibility! First arch backwards, then roll over like a ball! I said I want to take picture, and she said "Quick! I can't hold for too long!" So funny!

Spring cleaning

2011-01-12T22:28:00.006+08:00

Been too tired to update my blog. I wanted to make an entry on 3rd Jan cos that marked the 1st year we have moved back to AMK. Happy first year! Well, finally after 1 year, we did some spring cleaning to spruce up the few places that were untouched when we moved in.

I have the "before" photos but not the "after" though they are 99% done up. I just need that 1% to be done and be perfect before I take the photos.

- The spare room is now neat and clean and Le has a proper place to do her work. Everything must have its place, and accessible place! I am so proud of what we did.

- The study niche is neaten up - an extra cupboard to keep all the books - but still a little messy with our miscellaneous stuff...ok, will clean up.

- The storeroom is done! Bravo, Bunn! And we have spare shelves now!

And what is most satisfying out of this spring cleaning project? A neater, cleaner home and we sold our trash for almost $62!

Then little by little...I cleaned and packed the smaller area (that's why too tired to blog). Kids' wardrobe are cleaned and packed. Wardrobe in spare room is cleaned and packed. Our wardrobe is packed but some shelves are still to be cleaned.

Next up: shoe cabinet and cupboards in study niche. This weekend's job!

Beauty drink

2011-01-01T08:32:00.004+08:00

Bought 3 wks' supply back from Japan. Not sure if it will help but I will try anyway!!

Happy new year!!

2011-01-01T00:08:00.003+08:00

Happy 2011!!! Hope this year will be better than last!

How did I spend the last night of 2011? HEALTHILY on the treadmill!!

Penang - 29 to 30 Dec

2010-12-31T23:38:00.008+08:00

Happy faces leaving for Penang. The trip was ok. Couldn't do much with kids... as usual, did my year-end kids' clothes shopping.

This is the first time I go on a holiday with Mum and Dad! It was the best decision cos it didn't matter whether we went sightseeing or shopping, it was the smile and happiness we saw in their faces.

Christmas celebration

2010-12-31T23:31:00.002+08:00

The yearly celebration and frenzy!

Underwater World - 15 Dec

2010-12-31T22:59:00.005+08:00

After much juggling, we finally managed to find time to visit the Underwater World (just before our Osaka trip)... to spend time with the kids. It was the first time for us! I think we were equally excited.

touching the stringray

giant turtles translucent cuttlefish that take the colour of the changing light

Osaka/ Kyoto/ Kobe - day 3 & 4 (19-20 Dec)

2010-12-19T22:21:00.032+08:00

19th Dec - Osaka-Kobe

Today, we woke up at 10.30am! This is our idea of f&e holiday - no restriction. Holiday without the kids is also a way for us to catch up on our much needed sleep and wake up naturally. We decided this is the day for Kyoto and we should do some sightseeing. Took the JR Kyoto line, a 30mins train ride. We comtemplated taking a day tour at the agency but it cost 4,500yen per pax and by the time we reached Kyoto, it was too late to join the tour. We decided to hit out on our own. It was not that difficult after finding out the directions - a bus to Kiyomizu Temple, walk to Kodaiji Temple, then walk to Yasaka Shrine in the Gion district (one of the famous entertainment and geisha quarters with traditional restaurants and tea-houses). Sounds exciting! I would love to see the geisha quarters.

Along the way to the temple, there are many souvenir, snack shops, very interesting. I like Kyoto, it has a very authentic, ancient look. A very comfortable feeling. But everywhere is so quiet, too quiet. Glad we made this trip, it's a very peaceful, enjoyable walk, especially in the cold weather.
Kiyomizu Temple is an architecturally unique temple with a main hall on a steep slope with a wooden plaftorm supported by pillars, from which a panoramic view of Kyoto can be enjoyed.

write your troubles on the paper, throw into the water, when the paper dissolves, your troubles will be gone!

After Kiyomizu Temple, we made our way to Kodaiji Temple - a temple that commemorates a great general in 16th century; it was built by his widow. Along the way, we bought some snacks. Things are really expensive! S$8-10 are spent very easily on each item.

We reached Kodaiji Temple at around 4.30p.m, half an hour before closing time, too short to take our own sweet time to walk around, plus it was growing dark. So we decided to make our way back to the bus stop but just outside the temple, some people were waiting for the sunset and we decided to do the same.

It was a pity we started late and couldn't end up in Gion district. I would really love to go to a teahouse and see a dance performance by geishas. We took the bus back to Kyoto station, bought bento sets from Isetan supermarket for our dinner, and then headed back to Osaka by JR.

On second thoughts, I think we should have stayed for the Arashiyama Hanatouro in Kyoto, the winter urban promenades of light and illumination. However, it was dark and I think we kinda feel secured going back to where we stayed. Instead we went to the Hikari Renaissance, a Christmas light-up area. It was nice but as we are so used to seeing the whole Orchard Road lighted up with all the Xmas deco of each mall, it didn't impress us that much. Anyhow, it was a nice walk.Back to the hotel, we decided on the next day's programme. As it was the last day, I told Bunn we should go to some places of interest where tourists usually go, like Osaka Castle or some local fish markets... In the end, shopping got the better of us. We decided we will go to Kobe Sanda Premium Outlets (similar to the Rinku one we went). We could go around Kobe after the outlets. Mmm...I think we are not very sightseeing and we are lazy people, all we want to do is to walk and shop and do nothing much!

20th Dec - Osaka-Kobe

We decided to start early today and left the hotel at 8a.m. Took the JR again to Sanda station and a bus to the outlets. Spent some time there, buying the last stuff we had to and lunch at the food court. After lunch we checked out the possible places we can go in Kobe. But Bunn had a very important conf call to make in the afternoon and we decided not to take risk by going to somewhere where signal could be bad. So, head back to Osaka.

We went to Tenjimbashisuji, the longest shopping street in Japan, 2.6km. While Bunn had his conf call in some cafe, I walked along the street. It was less interesting than Dotonburi and more local, market like. Met Bunn after his call and we took the subway to...Dotonburi! Still prefer this place and there are some many choices for food. We stepped into a sushi place, not knowing it was the conveyor belt type. We enjoyed quality sushi at good price. A very satisfying meal.

Headed back to the hotel to offload our stuff before going to Floating Observatory, the highest point to have a bird's eye view of Osaka. Mmm...the view was so-so and surprisingly not very cold 173m high up in the building.

Back to hotel and packed up. We are leaving tomorrow morning. Have to wake up at 5.30am (Japan time) to catch the airport limousine bus!

21st Dec

Time to go home! Bye bye Osaka!

Osaka - day 2 (18 Dec)

2010-12-18T23:47:00.010+08:00

The room doesn't come with breakfast. In fact, the price between with and without breakfast is quite a lot, so we opted out. Good choice cos we could wake up later and not rush for breakfast. Bad thing was, check-out is at 10a.m, so we couldn't sleep too late anyway. Subway again to our next hotel - Hotel Monterey Osaka (near Osaka JR station).

The way to the hotel after reaching the subway train was not that easy. We found it finally and it was quite far from the subway station, I preferred yesterday's location. We bought a subway 1-day pass today and decided to hit the factory outlet.

Some interesting finds along the way:

- a stereo suspended for the PA announcement while some construction were going on

- all toilets come with the bottom washing facility

- a very thoughtful detail in the toilet with a child seat, for the busy mother who needs to pee!

- a space for boarding for women only on the subway platform!

Our breakfast for today - waffle. In fact, this was the most satisfying "meal" of the day.

Rinku Premium Outlets, that was where we shopped today. Bought some little stuff, prices were really cheaper than town prices. Prices for Coach bags were good but since it's still more expensive than USA, I decided not...I didn't want to splurge too much.

We reached back hotel around 8.30pm and checked into our room. It was so disappointingly small! Even smaller than yesterday's inn! We tried asking if we could check out the next day without penalty but was told it would be 100%! Really disappointed, otherwise we really wanted to go back to the inn.

Lunch was udon and dinner was soba. Both were from those shops that are more "mass", quality was so-so. Couldn't find my sushi and sashimi today (could but so expensive). I was very disappointed. Choices were much less than yesteray. I kept telling Bunn I am very disappointed today with everything! He said we were at "Ang Mo Kio" yesterday; today we are at "Raffles City", so prices are different. I miss the drugstores! Only consolation was free internet access, that's why I could update my blog. I sighed so many times that I didn't even realise! Very disappointing!

Tomorrow, we will go to Kyoto for a day trip.

Osaka - day 1 (17 Dec)

2010-12-18T21:43:00.016+08:00

We arrive at Kansai airport close to 7a.m, after a night flight with stopover at Ho Chi Min airport. Sleepily, we took the train and subway to our hotel.

We stayed in Yamatoya Honten, a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan) located in a very ideal place near the Nippombashi subway station. We only booked 1 night not knowing what it would be like, and what area we would be in (remember, not much research done?). The room was not ready cos check-in is only at 3pm. We started to plan our itinery there and then!

We realised the area near our hotel was the famous Dotonbori street, full of shops and restaurants. This street is linked to another famous walking street, a 600m shopping street - Shinsaibashi street - also full of shops and restaurants. We decided to spend the rest of the day walking around here. We first reached a drugstore and I told Bunn we must go in, drugstores in Japan are very interesting! Indeed! I already bought 2 of the 3 remaining Xmas presents here! Very satisfied cos they were half the price vs back home! Much later, we found that there are many such shops along the 2 streets we walked.

This is not a vending machine, but you have to buy your coupon to your ramen first before entering After walking for a while, we took our first meal of steamboat. The woman in the shop spoke Japanese to us about our selection but we didn't understand her. She tried very hard to explain and we just didn't understand and kept pointing to the steamboat we wanted. When we paid the bill of 3,360 yen (S$53), we knew why. She was trying to tell us the cost was for per person! This is expensive for a quite normal steamboat without much variety. Very expensive! There are many other good and cheaper choices, I told Bunn. Oh well, our first meal...

We walked further more after lunch. By about 2pm, we were a little tired and headed back to the hotel and our room was ready by then. Bunn complained the room was small but I thought it was ok. I told him we are in Japan and rooms tend to be smaller. We slept on mattresses on the floor but it was comfortable. And guess what? We took a nap! This is the beauty of free and easy, you do what you want!

At 5pm, we headed out again. We didn't finish the Shinsaibashi street yet. For dinner tonight, we decided on ramen. About S$13 each bowl. Not bad but I thought it was not fantastic. So, it's not true that any shop you hit, the quality of the food is definitely much better than back home.

I told Bunn, no more ramen tomorrow, I want to eat sushi and sashimi! After dinner, we continued walking the full stretch of Shinsaibashi till the end! And bought the remaining present. There, all my Xmas shopping are done! On our way back to the hotel, we bought supper back. Bunn and his octopus balls and me with my sushi. Very satisfying, cos it was quality sushi, not very cheap but worth it all! Down with some tea and we are filled for the night! I am sure by the end of this trip, my lost 3kgs will be regained! We slept at 11p.m! I asked Bunn if it were too early. He said no lah, we didn't really sleep on the plane last night. Ok, lights out! It was a satisfying day with food, presents and great streets to walk around.

Xmas presents

2010-12-13T23:16:00.005+08:00

After 2 half days' leave last week, I finally settled all the kids' presents!! It's always a stress to leave this fun activity till the last min. Next yr, I will try to do it earlier, next yr... Tonight, I finished wrapping the last batch of presents before leaving... I still have 3 more to buy which I hope to get during next wk's trip, by hook or by crook cos I don't have time left!!! After a cold winter, I will hit hot (??) BKK and be back on Xmas eve itself and probably just have time to come home, shower and hit the party! I am looking forward to that.

Trip

2010-12-12T22:12:00.004+08:00

I give up! Give up trying to do research for the Osaka trip on my own. Have been still quite busy with my work for the past 2 weeks after Siem Reap, I am simply too tired to do research at night. Luckily Oli passed me a lot of brochures from her friend, good read but still as confused where to go - Kyoto? Kobe? Stay over or day trip?.

Friday night, I finally booked the remaining 3 nights' hotel at Osaka, it's easier... we are only there for 4 days, no point trying to lug the luggage around from hotel to hotel and stress ourselves. The names of the train stations are already killing me! I was very stressed about not yet booking the hotel, doing insufficient research for the trip. Then I realised, why the heck am I stressing so much? I just need to get away and veg out, even if it's just loitering around in the cold winter, eating authentic Japanese food, and doing nothing!

Itinery? Plan on the plane or when we reach there.

Rapunzel : A Tangled Tale

2010-12-12T21:58:00.003+08:00

Yesterday evening, we went to see this show. It was a hilarious show, good laugh for adults. But Le and Kang were both scared by some ugly sights (the witch, the gnomes...). Halfway through the show, they wanted out! Bunn took them out and told me to enjoy the show. I was half-hearted about staying and felt uneasy he has to handle the kids by himself.

Anyway, I stayed till the end. It was really a good show, a good twist from the usual storyline we already knew, better than The Frog and the Princess (yes, yes, I am watching all the kids' movies!).

When I came out of the cinema, Le kept asking me what happened to so-and-so... When we reached home, I said to her "Actually the show was not bad what". She said something that amazed and amused me, something that made me realise she has grown up... Her reply (shaking her head and said) "Next time we discuss first". I laughed.

160!!

2010-12-12T15:04:00.005+08:00

Yippee, broke my own record again!! Though this may not be consistent but well, at least it crossed the threshold.

Yesterday as I was on the treadmill, I saw this woman again. Few months ago, I saw her pregnant and still obviously in her pre-preg bikini. The bottom covered only half her bottom, tsk tsk tsk. Yesterday, she had the baby in toll, still in the same bikini, the bottom still covering half of hers (it's the very sexy type where it's mainly strings and very little material). Her tummy was FLAT! This didn't marvel me that much, some people just gain and lose like nothing. What disgusted me most was... no marks on the tummy!! How is it possible!!!!

Siem Reap

2010-11-29T21:34:00.018+08:00

Yes, finally over! I am so glad. All went very well and ended very well. The bosses are happy, so am I and very relieved (err...does that translate to a bigger bonus? Wishful thinking lah, never in a French company!)!

We had a spectacular dinner at the temple one night. It was very impressive, all lighted up and outdoor and we were entertained by cultural dances. Of course, we became the dinner of mosquitoes too.

It was however, very heartpain to see all the efforts put in for the few days destroyed after the whole seminar cos it was not worth shipping everything back. Even destroying is not easy! Took up all the space in my room and bathtub!

At the end of the last day of seminar, I did some quick email checks and then off I went to pamper myself! Manicure and pedicure for US$12!! After working so hard, I deserved a little treat for myself!

KC gave me a treat on Sat. She said I cannot leave Siem Reap without seeing any temple! And so within 2hrs, we went to 3 temples - Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Promh (where Tomb Raider 3 was filmed). Very interesting but hot. I must say if you are in the right gear (I wasn't sure if I would get to go beforehand) with right shoes, it's very good exercise. There are 300+ temples in Siem Reap. Why? Cos in ancient times, each new king has to build a temple to show his religious and power.

Angkor Wat

The all-time famous and must-visit temple. The original cravings still remain clearly on the walls. Headless statues are the result of thefts. In Cambodia, many temples are not undergoing refurbishing and restoration. Other different countries will adopt the temples to restore, for e.g. France, Italy, India....

And I took a photo of the ground. On the left is the better pathway for tourists, on the right is the original road. Of course I chose to walk on the original!

Bayon

The temple with 36 towers and each tower has 4 faces. The shot with the reflection in the water is a must!

The tour guide suggested a photo at one of the towers where it was possible to take a nose-to-nose photo. Such clever photography!

Ta Promh

The Tomb Raider place! where trees grew over the roof of the temple.

Re-decorate

2010-11-21T17:53:00.004+08:00

Upon PBS' advice, I went to inspect the tree and found that Bunn did not spread out the tree branches at all!! I ended up opening the branches 1 by 1 and relighted and redecorated the whole tree. Does it look better now? I think 1 more set of silver ornaments should do the job.

Mistletoe

2010-11-21T07:46:00.003+08:00

There it is, the mistletoe. Mmm.. I think for green tree, I should have bought a solid star instead of an outline star, would be more visible.

In the spirit of Xmas....

2010-11-19T00:08:00.001+08:00

...I have changed the colour to pink and green!

End Nov

2010-11-18T23:57:00.003+08:00

I can't wait for next week's trip to be over. Every night, I dream about something going wrong during the seminar. I can't eat well, I can't sleep well. Next weekend, I will be relieved! Siem Reap 1 month on, I have lost 3kgs after the food poisoning. I hope I will be safe next week....

I wanna do my Christmas shopping!!!

Xmas tree

2010-11-18T23:44:00.006+08:00

Thanks to PBS who wanted to get rid of her Xmas tree and change to a smaller one, we took over and saved some money! The tree that I have been admiring for years cos it's big and "fluffy". But somehow it just looked different...is it cos we didn't make the branches down enough? Somehow I find it looks bare in our hands, whatever tree.

Still prefer a white tree but managed to keep it still in blue. Cos of its size, our current ornaments are not enough and we spent about $80 topping up some more so far - another set of lighting, more hanging stuff. The last things we need to get are a mistletoe and presents, I think it will look perfect. The kids helped with the deco and this is the result! Let's see the difference tomorrow after getting the mistletoe.

Report book

2010-11-18T23:37:00.005+08:00

I wasn't expecting Le to bring back a report book (the oh so familiar book!) since she doesn't have exams.

I must say, considering she is still so blur and bo chap about her work, I am quite satisfied with her results. Chinese pulled her down. And Maths, if she was less careless, she could do better. Still, it was a pleasant surprise. Not bad, not bad. At least this gave me some confidence in her and I know where she stood.

Bottle Tree Park

2010-11-18T23:10:00.006+08:00

Yesterday, we went to Bottle Tree Park. It's been some time since we went to a park. Instead of idling at home, we made plan to start early and we left home at 8.30a.m. Good to let the kids run all they want.

Tired....

2010-11-11T23:38:00.003+08:00

Bunn is away in Shanghai this week. In order not to have a mad rush, I took half day and requested for the 4 hours to be split from Mon-Thu and I leave 1 hour earlier each day. I won't be able to make it in time if I have to take the train to Bishan, pick up the car, then drive to Kang's school. Tuesdays are worst with Le going for gym. Actually I don't need 1 hour, I just need 20mins and I ended up leaving at 5.30pm each day (instead of 5) except on Tue. Then I ended up working late into the night.... mmm...what bother to take leave then?

So tired... can't wait for the next 2 weeks to end quickly!

Drawing

2010-11-06T22:40:00.004+08:00

Le drew this... I asked why papa has earrings, she said just for fun. I asked if I should kiss papa, she said no cannot...'otherwise the bubble will burst and you will be like 谢明明 and 杨正杰!' Kids...!

150!

2010-11-06T17:25:00.001+08:00

Yes! I broke my record and surpassed 150 now!

New addition

2010-11-06T15:30:00.006+08:00

Our latest addition. Saw a similar one when we first moved in and was tempted to buy but so expensive at $288. Bunn found it in his recent GZ trip and bought it for $70! It's made in China while the exp one is made in Australia. But what is not made in China these days. Oh well, it looks exactly the same! Some things you don't have to go for the original!

And our beloved giant Swatch (which is now a collectible) has found a new place and is still special in our hearts.

Workout

2010-11-05T14:41:00.003+08:00

A combination of walk and jog. Not bad!

8.54

2010-11-05T14:38:00.002+08:00

THAT'S THE TIME Kang got up today!! Another record!

Sleepover 2

2010-11-05T08:35:00.005+08:00

Yes, I know I know.. it is countable now. It will soon be uncountable. We allowed the kids again for behaving quite well and today is a public holiday. Mark the time again, it's 8.37am and Kang is still sleeping!!! He has broken his own record again!

1 Nov

2010-11-01T22:12:00.003+08:00

2nd last month of the year... time really flies. Really feel like taking long leave in Dec... My leave balance? I have only taken 1/2 day of my leave this year. I wanna rest before the busy year starts! I don't know how I will manage next year, but will think about that when it comes...

Xmas deco

2010-10-30T21:54:00.005+08:00

Yesterday while walking back to the office, I suddenly noticed that the xmas deco is up! I haven't really noticed.. Time flies! It's almost Nov!

Sleepover

2010-10-30T08:22:00.005+08:00

Last night, we decided to let the kids sleepover in our room. They were excited. Only on Friday nights at our discretion, I need to clarify our stand first. 8.24am, mark this time!! Kang has broken his record! Just as I enjoy watching Le eat, I enjoy watching Kang sleep!

Mosquitoes..

2010-10-30T07:17:00.004+08:00

I hate them!! Look what it or they have done to Kang! Swollen face!

Stressed...

2010-10-30T07:13:00.003+08:00

Can't sleep well, can't eat well... I wish Dec come quickly! I WANT TO TAKE LONG LEAVE!

My letter

2010-10-26T21:50:00.003+08:00

Last Monday, after waiting at a clinic for half an hour for the doctor (still having his dinner), I was so fed up and left. I told Bunn that it's a waste of time and it's very disrespectful of doctors to keep their patients waiting during operating hours (when there is no emergency). I said I will write in the forum.

Bunn laughed and said ok, write in but it won't be published. If it were, he will buy me a lunch.

23 Oct, Sat. My letter was published. I had the last laugh. I will select a lunch venue carefully... a quality one!

But after I get over my loss of appetite.

But it was only till today that I logged in the online website (http://www.straitstimes.com/STForum/Story/STIStory_594186.html) and found some many comments. Singaporeans are really funny when they give their comments online. I must say I am amused at some of the comments, but angry with some of them. But oh well, everyone is entitled to their own opinion.

Observant

2010-10-19T23:45:00.003+08:00

Every mid of the week, I will vacuum the floor. Today, as I took out the vacuum cleaner, Le said "Eee, I thought it's Wednesday?" I didn't expect her to notice that I usually do it on Weds, and was surprised at her remark. How observant kids are!

En's & Xi's birthday celebration - 16 Oct

2010-10-19T23:33:00.005+08:00

A combined celebration for the 2 kids whose birthdays are 1 week apart!

Siem Reap - 12 to 13 Oct

2010-10-19T23:01:00.004+08:00

A very short trip but definitely will last a long time in my mind!

The hotel we stayed was nice (oh the photos are in co's camera, will upload another day).

To go from place to place, we travelled on "tuk-tuk", costing US$1 to 2. The currency used is US$. I heard 80% of the city is dependent on tourism!

It was sunset as we departed. KC said I must be the only person who leaves Siem Reap without visiting any temples! I guess so! I hope next trip I will have the chance.

I started feeling queasy after checking in. Must be the cream soup that we took before leaving the hotel plus the "milky" cappucino. After take off, I immediately went to the toilet. The air turbulence didn't help, the smell of food didn't help, the smell of toilet didn't help!! Everything just poured out and out and out! Thereafter, I puked the whole flight back. It was horrible, horrible, terrible, terrible feeling! But I must say the air crew were nice. They offered me hot water and asked if I wanted to be wheeled to the clinic after landing. I declined. Called Bunn immediately after landing back. Luckily he was already waiting at the airport for me.

We sent the kids to mil's and went to the clinic. There were 10 people ahead of me in the queue! Almost died! Finally got to see the doc after 1 hour! Got a jab, some medicine and antibiotics. Must be food poisoning!

And for the next 2 days, I was so weak and felt so terrible. It felt like dying. Made me think whether this was the feeling if one has terminal illness. Laid in bed for 2 days drifting in and out of sleep. I hate the feeling and glad it's all over now. Now you know why it was a short trip but would remain long in my memory.

I resolved to get whatever jab there is before the next trip just to play safe. Malaria, dengue, bad stomach.... I don't know what, but whatever!