Imperial Salt

A girly night in

2011-03-15T23:34:00.004+11:00

Last Friday, I had the girls over. We were meant to go out for dinner but the husband had to work late so they came to me instead. We ordered in Korean and talked the night away. AND performed mini make overs on each other. I know. It's not the best adult choice of past time activity. But it was really nice to have a girly night in every now and than. And God knows how much I need that from time to time.

My well groomed gals by the end of the night.

Another lazy Sunday

2011-03-13T22:32:00.000+11:00

Just another one of our simple walks to our local park down the street. Funny how the simplest things leave such strong imprints in your life.

Here's Annie getting all "up-tight" about a little spec on her shoes!

Pictures from birthday brunch

2011-03-08T22:50:00.003+11:00

Ok. I have now gone past my temporary depression caused by my age. And am ready to share pictures of my surprise birthday brunch. Enjoy!

And yes. It's the same dress as my last post. I do own more than one dress.

A shot out to Jas. Thanks for being my unofficial photographer for the day!

At the park

2011-03-06T22:55:00.002+11:00

A couple of weekends ago, we met up with a couple of friends and their two little boys to spend a warm Saturday afternoon together at a park. It is really nice to have friends who are at the exact stage of life to ours. And to be able to share all the ups and downs of parenting over a cuppa every now and than is just priceless.

Our friend's first born "J" is just 1 week older than Annie so they are at an age where they are able to occupy themselves for a good 15 to 20 mins (if we are lucky). That means we get to actually sit down and chat a little, which is fantastic. Of course we also have our 2nd born to care for but after having used to taking care of two children, having to care for just one is a walk in the park.

Annabel has always been a very careful and guarded child. And for that reason, she is never usually adventurous at playgrounds. J on the other hand is the complete opposite. Being true to his boyish make out. He is adventurous and is very skilled with his hands and feet. So I am always very keen to get the two together to hopefully entice the little adventure junkie in Annie to come out and play. They have been "friends"since they were babies so it's really nice to see them finally interact and play with each other and having mini chats of their own.

Anyhow. I really wanted to share some pictures she took on her own with my compact digital camera that afternoon. Not too bad for her first attempt me thinks *proud mum beam*.

They were trying to take a picture of each other at the same time. How cute is that! A fail shot

Back

2011-02-16T20:31:00.005+11:00

Oh I missed you all. Haven't been blogging as regularly as hoped past week or so. Did you even noticed I've been gone?! *pff*

Three weekends ago we were at a wedding. And we celebrated my birthday over Sunday brunch. Yes folks. I have reached my mid thirties and am officially over the hills.

*GIVE ME BACK MY YOUTH* (fist in the air)

I still have not gotten over feeling temporarily depressed that I have moved on to a new age box. Not to mention the looming fact that I am just 5 years shy of the 40's! (That is my scary age) And all this talk about how the 50s are the new 30s is just plan old cr**. What does that even mean!? Does that mean I ought to feel like I'm fifteen now!?

And because I am all gloom and loom. I will leave you with a less dramatic caption of shots we took at the wedding. Just the fabulous glamourous bits of course.

Caring for my brushes

2011-02-13T21:59:00.001+11:00

SO. A little while ago I posted about my new found love of cosmetic brushes. I have a collection of 8 brushes in total. Foundation, Concealer, Base Coat, Eye Crease, Corner Eye, Blending, Smudge and Cheeks brushes. And I have had a ball experimenting with them.

As my collection are a set of good quality brushes. I put quite a bit of effort in caring for them so that I could enjoy them for as long as they are meant to last. So almost every week, these little babies get a spa treatment from me.

I thought I'd share how I clean my brushes as there are heaps of ways to do it (like facial cleaners, baby shampoo, brush cleaners etc..). But I found this way the best and the cheapest. And seeing how frequently I wash them (I wash my foundation and concealer brush immediately after they get used), this will go a long way.

Plus it's how oil painters wash their brushes so it's a proven method.

So what I do is to pour a portion of dish washing detergent (anti-bacteria ones) and olive oil onto a small plate. About 2 portions AUS 50 cents detergent to 2 portions AUS 20 cents olive oil. This does about 3 to 4 brushes.

Than I swirl my brushes around to mix the cleaning mixture and work them back and forth on my palm to get rid of whatever make up left on them. NEVER squeeze or rub the hairs of the brush with your finger tips. That will ruin the shape of the brushes.

After working the cleaning mixture through the brushes, I rinse them off with warm water. And paper towel them dry before hanging them up like in the picture above.

Brushes should never be dried on their sides or hair side up because the water from the washing could damage the glue that holds the hairs together. The last thing you need is to have your expensive brushes leaving traces of hair on your face.

And I also found this product that I am seriously thinking of purchasing. It is called "The Brush Guard" (Google the name and you will find it). If you click on "how to use". You will find that my method of drying is one of the what NOT to do.

Think I had better get some of those guards soon.

A quickie

2011-02-10T09:22:00.008+11:00

Sorry for the absence! I have been so busy it's not funny. The husband has been going to work early and coming home late past 2/3 weeks. That translates to me getting to cover both morning AND night shifts with the girls. AND I am back full time for work. *phew*

Anyhoo. I saw this ad and thought I have to post it because it's just so darn cute. Hopefully it's enough to keep you guys occupied till I get my act together and post pictures we took at the wedding and my birthday branch. Yes. I have growm yet another year older. Non the wiser.

Enjoy!

Will be back soon... Been a CraZy WeEk!

2011-01-30T22:40:00.000+11:00

What should I wear........

2011-01-25T22:22:00.002+11:00

We are attending a wedding this weekend and I am excited.

There is no secret that I lurve weddings. I am one of those people that tear up after speeches and eat way too much cake.

I lurve getting all glam up for it. I lurve having a night of good food and great conversations. And I lurve the fact that the nights are KIDS FREE!

And of course, this weekend, we will be celebrating the union of two very lovely people.

So. The thing that will be on my mind this week would be "What to wear?"

Here's what I put together for the day ensemble. It's down for a maybe.

Meet my new loves

2011-01-20T22:49:00.002+11:00

Delicious. Velvety. Shimmering palettes and pods of goodness.

Everyone. I have fallen in love with eye colors.

Admittedly, I have never been good at make up. Don't really care for it or knew what to do with it. My make up routine consist of moisturise, sunblock, powder, rouge, waterproof eyeliner and lip gloss. And I put them on in that order too.

However, of late. I have grown very curious with what colors could do for my face. And in the process of my exploration, I have also realised how much I actually enjoy experimenting with what colors works on me. And which colors blend well with which.

And the tools! Oh My Goodness. I never knew that those expensive brushes could actually work wonders!

So here I am. An absolute convert. Playing around with make up like a teenager in my thirties.

And to make it all official. I will admit here for all you guys out there to tease as you please. I am too browsing on the inter net for make up tutorials.

Oh the shame.

And with that note. I shall end with my latest loot pictured below.

All purchases from Strawberry.Net.
Brushes are Laura Mercier. Crease, All Over Eye Color, Smudge & Eye Color Brush. Lancome Precision Cheek Brush.
Costal Scents 88 Shimmer Palettes from Costral Scents US.

Annabel's day at the Park

2011-01-16T22:46:00.006+11:00

We have had ourselves a big Saturday celebrating Annabel's birthday. I had not planned for it to be big. Just picnic amongst ourselves. Plus the grandparents. And Luna Park. It was supposed to be relaxing and light. That somehow turned epic, partly due to the weather.

The forecast was for light showers but we thought we'd press on. The day turned out to be hot and humid instead. REALLY hot and humid

Thankfully the girls were not the slightest bit affected by the sticky air. As for me. It was the worse weather ever. I could stand a scorching sun. I don't really mind windy days or drenching downpours. I just don't do humid. In fact, that's one of the reason for marrying Melvin. To get out of warm humid Singapore!

Of course I'm just kidding..... tsk tsk

So all afternoon I was in discomfort central. I had to drink heaps of cool water. While frantically fanning myself down with any piece of brochure I could get my hands on to stay sane. It almost robbed me off the will to live! Yes. For me. It was THAT bad

And. Did I mention I had NON-WATERPROOF eye liner on. You think a gal like me, coming from the tropics, would handle herself more eloquently.

Putting the panda look aside. And feeling absolutely spent by the end of the day. Our day at the park was a hit with the girls. And that's what counts. We had multiple rides passes for Annie and myself (some rides needed an accompanying adult) and she had a ball.

Except for the Tumble Bug ride which freaked out the both of us. I thought I was going to lose a child there!

Here are the pictures of our somewhat wonderful weekend.

Picnic by the harbour

Blowing bubbles.

Enjoying her very own chair.

We were in the blue carriage.

The view midway from within the Ferries Wheel.

Eating her first fairy floss.

The moment before the terror began (Tumble Bug ride)

Brisbane

2011-01-13T21:18:00.004+11:00

Our prayers go out to you all.

May God be with you in these dire times.

Hang in there and stay strong.

(picture extracted from the New York Times)

Annie's birthday coming soon

2011-01-11T23:07:00.002+11:00

Sunday Bliss

2011-01-09T12:52:00.007+11:00

Our Sunday mornings are usually a lazy one. We have a full day ahead of us at church so we like to keep it light.

The kids would normally join us in bed. And we would try to squeeze in a couple more minutes of light sleep. Than it's late breakfast / branch or a quick lunch. And get dress and off we go.

However, the weather was cool and sunny this morning. And seeing how we have had strange unpredictable weather of late. We decided we will head on out for a brisk walk after breakie. The brisk walk lead to an hour at the park. And than lunch at our local cafe where we had caramel milkshakes and bacon and eggs. It was so refreshing. Just one of those simple moments that I treasure so dearly.

Welcome 2011!

2010-12-31T23:55:00.004+11:00

After all the eating and outings over Christmas, we decided we'd have a low key New Year's eve. With 2 young children in tow, a big party with loads of people around is just simply insane. So we decided it'd be just us 4 ushering in 2011.

We started our low key celebration over at a friend's, who have 2 sons that were fairly closely aged to our girls. They kindly took out their waddling pool for the kids and as it was a warm day, the kids were excited to get into the water and out of the heat. Poor Rachel could only watch from the side because it was not long before the water splash fights began. It was nevertheless short lived as Annabel's princessie girly side took over and we all had to play nice to avoid mega tear bombs.

After lunch and a cup of tea. We headed home for an afternoon snooze and dinner before heading out again for the 9pm kiddies fireworks. The streets were dotted with party goers coming out for a peep at the early sparkles. And the atmosphere was festive. There were heaps of families out too with children all dressed in their pjs like our girls. Some even brought poppers and had their pretend midnight shout outs!

The girls really enjoyed the fireworks. Even Rachel whom we reluctantly woke because we did not want her to miss out. The warm day had mellowed into a cool night. And the girls were fast asleep mid drive home, quickly concurring their over stimulated senses. It was just a perfect end to the day. A perfect end to the year.
Here's looking forward to yet another amazing one. Happy New Year to you all.

Our Christmas Week

2010-12-29T21:42:00.000+11:00

Christmas Eve Morning: Went to watch a play for kids at the Sydney Opera House.

Than hang around the city before attending Christmas for kiddies service.
Had a cuppa while the girls have their afternoon snooze.

Christmas Day: Morning, the girls opening up their presies. And we had a festive lunch with friends and family.

Boxing Day: Drove up to the coast to spend the day with family who were holidaying at Magenta Shores.

A couple of days later: Soaking in the sun at Taronga Zoo.

It has been an awesome week.

Merry Chirstmas Everyone!

Remembering our Lord Jesus Christ.

Little G

2010-12-20T22:47:00.004+11:00

Mel's Mum, Sister and her little toddler had been over visiting past couple of weeks. It was great catching up with them and to finally meet Gracie. Up till last week, our only coorespondence with her has been through Skype. I was so delighted that Annabel and Rachel took to her instantly. And the love was reciporated by little G too.

It's that time of the year...

2010-12-17T23:54:00.001+11:00

I cannot believe it's almost the end of the year. This year past by way too quickly for me. I know I say this every year, how I always struggle to fit everything in. And how I am almost always chasing after lost time. But this year really did go by SO quickly. Too quickly.

Perhaps having 2 growing and demanding children speeds up the clock a little. And going back to work does make the weeks go by that much faster. But I also noticed that as I age. Time just seems to elude me at almost lightning speed.

Do you feel that way too? Or is it just me.

This time of the year, I like to reflect on the year gone by. The good and the bad. The lessons learnt. And remembering the ones I had forgotten. I like to reflect on the blessings. And remember to thank God for them. I tend to forget them too quickly.

I also try to do some baking. Just so my poor cookie cutters and rolling pin don't feel too neglected. (I know I know. Once a year is not nearly good enough. I am certain if they had legs, they would have ran away by now.) And last year I was too sleep deprived nursing a new born. So this year, I made up for it.

In one night. I had baked over 40 vanilla christmas cookies. A small army of gingerbread man. And used up all my black bananas on a yummy banana yogurt cake. I had turned baking manic.

So here I sit. Close to midnight. Wrapping up some christmas cookies for some friends. Feeling tired as hell. But quietly happy. For me, I couldn't think of a better way to slowly end the year with.

And here's my little helper.

Annabel's Body Guard

2010-12-16T21:59:00.000+11:00

I need one because I'm so darn freaking cute.

Bejeweled blitz

2010-12-14T21:23:00.001+11:00

It has been a while since I last posted. The mother and sister-in-law and her super duper cute toddler have been visiting. Thus we have been busy.

However the main reason for this void, very sadly, was not really that. It is our addiction to Bejeweled Blitz. Yes. I am hopelessly and shamelessly hooked.

It is awful. The soonest we got the kids to bed. Out comes our iPad. And that addictive "bling bling" begins.

This game is not new to us. In fact, this love affair started about 3 years ago. Before Annabel was born. And it has seen me through sleepless nights when I had to stay up to feed Annie. But it was mainly to pass time and some light entertainment.

But now. With the easy accessibility of the iPad. And the option to compete with friends over cyberspace. It has become irresistible! I simply cannot stay away. I think I need to join some AA club for finger tapping addicts or something.

Anyhoo. I will be posting pictures of what we had been up to soon. The "bling bling" awaits.

Couch art

2010-11-29T20:04:00.007+11:00

We were doing our usual sing and dance routine of dinner rituals. Feeding the kids. Feeding ourselves. Washing the dishes. Catching up on each other's day.

The whole time through. The kids would hang around the living room playing with whatever toys left over from the day. Nothing unusual. But we did notice Annabel running busily through and fro from the kitchen to the living area.

Than we saw this on our couch.

Now. We have absolutely no artistic fibre in our bodies. Back at school. I strive to just pass in arts. My best art projects were 3 dice made from clay. And perhaps a pencil sketch of some office buildings.

So naturally I never did have any idea in helping the kids develop. Artistically.
Seeing this tonight made me realise I should do something. We may have a little artist on our hands.

My weekend past

2010-11-28T22:05:00.000+11:00

We had a couple of friends visiting from Perth last weekend. It was great catching up with old mates. And fantastic to know that time does not dilute friendship.

Over the last 3 days, we visited the Hunter Valley, the Rock's market, ate seafood at Prymont fish market and comb the restaurants lined street of Darling Harbour. We did touristy things like taking pictures of the Opera House and watched a British lady street performer squeeze into a box.

The the kids love the new house guests too. They were so chatty and happy and well behaved. AND. They love hanging around them all the time.

We generously gave the willing pretend parents many "practice" hours. And spent most of that time carefully concealing how ecstatic we were that we had found two baby sitters for the weekend.

In my Inbox

2010-11-25T21:46:00.000+11:00

Baby Porcupine

Cuteness Overload!

(Almost) kids free weekend!

2010-11-23T21:16:00.001+11:00

Hubby's good mate and his girlfriend are visiting over the weekend. We have the friday off and will be dropping the kids off at mum's before heading down to Hunter Valley for the day. Dinner has been organised for Saturday, without the kids.

I simply cannot wait!!

Our new pad

2010-11-21T10:33:00.006+11:00

It was such a whirlwind experience searching for a new place to live. We had loved our first home very much and have grown very attached to it. We had so many happy times there.

The many gatherings with family and friends. The meticulous assembly of furniture. Memories of Salem. Of bringing Annabel home from the hospital. The tears and laughter that made hubby and me a stronger unit.

All the wonderful memories condense into that little space. Our familiar surroundings and neighbours who have become friends.

But alas. We need more room for our growing family. A backyard so the kids could roam and discover the world of worms and spiders. We knew it was time to move on.

The search was exhausting and many a times, out right frustrating. Needless to say, we weren't the only ones looking. Which meant, the good ones are usually very quickly snapped out, or are bought at a much higher value.

But we finally found the one. And it was within our asking price. So it was a huge relief as I was than so heavily pregnant. The whole packing, moving and unpacking took us almost 3 months. Thankfully all we needed to do was to give the house a fresh coat of paint. So we managed to just settle in before Rachel arrived.

It has been just over a year now and we are loving our new pad. The extra room was definitely worth the while. And we love our backyard with the huge gum tree. They say pictures speak a thousand words. So I'd better share some I took a year ago.

Annabel Tang

2010-11-19T20:37:00.003+11:00

Since I haven't blogged about Annabel for such a long time. And with my last post about Rachel. I thought it be fitting that I update you all with my no 1 as well. AKA Cheeky Monkey 1.

Annabel has grown into a bubbly outgoing toddler. She is just under 3 and has recently started kindy. She is quite a homely child and genuinely enjoys staying indoors if not encouraged to head out into the sun. And like her mummy and daddy, she enjoys her food. And to our delight, vegetables too. She speaks fluently and is capable of expressing herself quite clearly. And excels in parroting most sentences very well. That includes all the intonations complete with full on dramatic facial expressions. And she loves to sing.

Together with cheeky monkey 2, Annabel attends a weekly swim class with Daddy. In the beginning, it was perhaps not her most favourite thing to do. But in the 6 months she's been attending, she has grown fond of the pool and now manages a confident full head submission dip. We are such proud parents.

Asserting her independence is apparently her thing now. She wants to do everything herself . Wear her own clothes. Brush her own teeth. Put on her own shoes. Choose her own shoes.

It all sounds great except for one thing. Her love relationship with one 2 letter word. You know what it is. The dreaded "NO".

And it's no to everything too. Even things she wants. Sometimes it manages to slip out before a question is even finished! And it is driving us. Absolutely. Insane. But all in all, she is a great kid who loves to laugh. Who enjoys being a girly girl and is all softy in and out. And we love her very very much.

Rachel Tang

2010-11-14T21:30:00.009+11:00

Let me introduce my second daughter. Rachel Tang. Aka - Cheeky Monkey 2.

She was born last November on the 7th and has just turned a year old. Rachel is a very cheerful baby and loves getting into mischiefs. Amongst her many attics, she enjoys throwing things around and watching you pick them up the most.

And she points. To everything. To foods she wants to eat. To new things she sees. To places she wants you to take her to. And she also grunts if her demands are not met.

She has not learnt how to walk yet, but is sprouting an ultra-cute bud shift crawl. And when annoyed, could belt out quite a scream in protest. She could arch her back really well and would often throw herself backwards just for the fun of it when carried by Daddy. That act is also reserved for when she throws a tantrum, which is not fun at all, for Daddy.

Rachel loves her elder sister Annabel and finds her amusing. Especially when Annie is throwing a hissy fit and is all upset and crying. Of course, this sentiment is not reciprocated by the elder sister and often sends her deeper into her little abbys. But most other cheery moments, they do enjoy each other's company and loves laughing at each other over nothing at length.

Like her elder sister, Rachel is a fairly easy going baby and has learnt the art of sleeping through the night since 9 weeks of age. She is growing well and has hit most of her major developmental milestones. She has recently moved on from semi-solids to solids and is extremely loving trying out all the different textures of food. She has yet to utter a real word but has mustered up a faint "ma ma" to which we are unsure whether its food or mummy.

And with that, I shall end (though quite abruptly) with pictures of my cheeky monkey. 2. Enjoy!

1 Day

1 Month

3 Month

6 Month

7 Month

8 Month

10 Month

1 Year

A fresh new look and long post. You have been warned.

2010-11-10T23:23:00.006+11:00

If you had read my blog in the past, you would notice I had changed my blog template. I thought it was fitting seeing how it's a fresh start and all. I have not decided on whether I really like this look yet so it may go through a couple of changes before I finally settle on one.
Let me know what you think?

So, in my last post. I mentioned many wonderful things happened since I last blogged almost 2 years ago. I would like to share our highlights and one low-light of our lives, so be warned as I'll be ending with the latter. It deserves a special mention.

But let's start with the bright and cheery news. The most exciting being I have another baby girl! Rachel came into our lives a year ago and our little family of three is now an even four.

Unlike Annabel, my first who is passive, extremely cautious and determined. Rachel is loud, fearless and has quite a temper. Perhaps not the best choice of words to introduce her by. She is also very cheery, bubbly and full of life. And very quick on learning new tricks.

We had just celebrated her first birthday so I'll be posting some pictures we took soon. And also sharing more of her progress through her first year milestones. But for now, I would like to share more to bring you up to speed from where I last left off.

Besides having another baby, the next great news is moving into our new house. We had upgraded from our 2 bedroom apartment to a 3 bedroom house with a child friendly backyard. It also has a wood fireplace and is only 2o mins drive to the city. During non-peak hour traffic of course.

One great feature of our new suburb is the great restaurants and food shops. Amazing Korean food and a buzzing fresh food market just at our doorstep. Not the mention the selection of good shopping malls just 5 to 10 mins drive away. It has been a year since the move so we are fairly settled in. I will share some pictures soon.

I had been on maternity leave for over 9 months and have recently gone back to the work force only a month ago. This is my second time doing this returning to work after birth thing so the transition was a fairly smooth one. Especially since I am only working 4 days a week. It is nice having to get all dress up again. Call me nuts but after having worn 9 over months of mainly tees and jeans, I am ready to get all uncomfortable in business attire again.

Of course I had to go out and buy me some new stuff to update my sad lifeless wardrobe. But because I love talking about fashion and sharing my latest loot, I thought I'd safe that for another post.

We also managed to squeeze in a trip to Singapore whilst nursing a new baby and toilet training Annabel. It was to attend my cousin's wedding and grandmothers 92nd birthday. Needless to say, the trip was awesome and we, true to our fashion, ate ourselves silly. The shopping was amazing and I had a great time catching up with the family and friends.

The holiday spanned over 5 weeks, including stopovers to Perth, so again, I will leave the details to yet another post.

One last thing I'd like to share. And it is with a heavy heart as I write this because I am still recovering from the loss. Salem my dear cat and furry companion of 7 years has passed on. Even now nearly after more than 6 months since his little heart stop beating, the tears still flow. Sometimes uncontrollably. The slightest reminder of him. His bowl. His toys I found while vacuuming under the couch. His pictures. The spot under the tree where we said our goodbyes. It is all too painful sometimes to bear.

But I had loved my little guy. And have fought oh so hard to keep his life comfortable and normal since we found out the horrible news. Keeping him happy was my focus for so many months. And when it finally ended. Althought I knew it was coming. It left me devastested.

But I knew I did my best. And he left hopefully happy knowing he had been so loved and treasured.

The bible never spoke of life after death for animals. And I know it's silly to even think that way. But I sure hope I will see him again one day. Till I find out, I will be comforted knowing he will always be part of our family in our hearts.

Goodbye my dear friend. You will always be in our thoughts.

Am I really back??

2010-11-09T13:32:00.002+11:00

It has been one year and eight months since I last blogged. Many a times I do catch myself entertaining the thought of blogging again. But time never quite got on my side and I often postponed the notion to blog again to a more “suitable” time. Of course that time never did come by and before you know it, a year and some months has passed by.

So here I sit in my office this afternoon, having a cup of tea and a little break. I decided to pop in my digital diary for a visit.

And it occurred to me how much I used to love jotting down all the amazing and wonderful events no matter now big or small of our lives. And scrolling through it page after page, I realised how great it was for me to look back and remind myself of the many blessings God has thrown my way. And how good I feel reading all our happy moments and watching Annabel grow and journeys we took, the good and the not so good.

So there leaves a few questions. Do I really want to get back into blogging after (let’s face it) a few weak attempts in the past? Can I really spare the time? Will anyone fancy reading yet another blog about a stranger’s life?

I don’t know.

But I do know how I feel after reading just 2 pages. And how much more grateful and thankful I am. I think that is good enough a reason for me to start blogging again. If not for anyone out there, but for us to look back in years to come, of the wonderful lives we had lived.

So please watch this space if you’d like to go on this little journey called life with me.

Sighing off for now. But hopefully for not too long.

Please help

2009-02-16T21:17:00.004+11:00

If you have not read about it in the papers, or heard about it in the news. Australia, specifically the state of Victory, has been battling with a raging out of control bush fire that has taken almost 200 lives and destroyed hundreds of home. I am not really aware of the history of bush fire Australia had suffered through the years, but they tell us this one is bad. Really bad.

It is almost unbearable watching the news. Scenes of the aftermath of the devastating fire makes my heart ache. I cannot, not even for a split second, imagine the pain and grieve of those who have lost a love one, a home, a 2nd or 3rd love one. Or more. Their memories, their town, their lives. And it happened so quickly too. For many, it only took a weekend.

The fires are still burning.

The Australian Red Cross is collecting donations to help the many affected by this tragedy. To make a contribution via phone, call 1800 811 700. To do it online. Click Australian Red Cross.

Go Bald

2009-02-09T18:15:00.001+11:00

Admittedly, I am not an advert reading of Kenny Sia's blog, a very popular blogger in Malaysia. However, I do occasionally drop by for a quick read because I find his entries great for light reading, funny, and from the heart.

I found out today that he is doing a fund raiser for cancer awareness for children. He calls it the "Go Bald, Give Hope" appeal.

The fund raiser jump started to a good start with many donating in the early days. However, the time is now quickly drawing near to the end and it is simply just not enough. I have decided to make a donation and ask that you join in too. You don't have to give much, but in the words of Kenny, "The amount you contribute may not be much on its own alone, but when pooled together it will be big enough to change people’s lives".

So pop on by and make a donation today. Just 5 more days left!

Weekend frenzies

2009-01-12T19:35:00.000+11:00

The past couple of days had been complete madness. We managed to pack lunch at a friend's (who is also our pastor. We were also planning for the church activities 09), dinner party at Mum and Dad's, and 2 birthday parties all within 2 short days! We are SO pooped!

I know I had posted quite a few pictures in past entries already so I figured, why stop now! Here are some more pictures of our weekend past.

Mother's group 1st birthday party.

Can you believe none of the bubbies went for the cake??!!

A big shout out to Leigh for baking the cutest birthday cake. I love it!

Jaiden's 1st birthday

Annabel's first swing
Under daddy's watchful care

Cuteness overload

2009-01-05T20:53:00.000+11:00

Hailey's 1st Birthday & BBQ at Bryan's

2009-01-03T22:23:00.000+11:00

Happy Birthday Hailey!

The Bells holding hands

And than we are off to Bryan's bbq
The best satay I have had in Australia everThe chef of the day

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T13:39:00.000+11:00

Another start of a new year with new hopes and dreams. I cannot wait.

May the new year be a safe and fulfilling year filled with lots of laughter, joy, peace and just the right amount of tears to you all.

Brain Dead Quote of the Year

2008-12-30T19:38:00.000+11:00

I had said a few silly things this year (and I do mean no brain, random, what THE silly). And whilst I like to think it was due to the pregnancy, I went ahead and did this today.

We were parking the car when we ran into a neighbour whose wife is due to give birth any day now.

Mel: Hey. Any news yet?

N: Yes! She popped!!

S: Yay! Congratulations! (thinking in my head "I wonder if they knew the sex of the baby before it was born?") So is it a boy or a girl? Do you know?

Boxing Day

2008-12-29T22:29:00.005+11:00

The family was over on Boxing Day and as it was a lot warmer than Christmas, we were doing all we can to stay cool.

The table is laid and readyMel's favourite gals

Salem sniffing for crumbs

How much prawns can one man eat!? A closer look

Family merriment

Annabel scoring in the gifts department

The family gets into the Wii
Cracking in to her gifts

Christmas Day

2008-12-28T20:31:00.005+11:00

It was such a good week past. The past 3 days, we have had friends and family over at our place for lunch, and a barbecue at a friends. Everyone stayed till late for both nights and we even had to bring out the refrigerated leftovers for dinner as people got hungry again.

Amongst the cooking and cleaning and tending to our guests. I surprisingly felt relaxed and satisfied. It is quite unusual for me to feel this way. Usually when I have 12 people over for a sit down cooked meal (not to mention 2 days in a row), I would turn into a control freak and run myself silly making sure that everything was in their exact place. This year, I felt really happy, calm and content. As I looked around and saw all the wonderful friends and family that surround our lives. I cannot help but feel blessed. Really blessed.

And I have my daughter, whom from birth, has made me feel like I am the luckiest and most special person alive.

So in how ever ways you celebrate this beautiful day. May you find all the happiness there is to find.

Annabel making her way to her pile of presents

Salem digging for his gift. A can of Tuna.

Chao time

The folkies The sibs having a go at each other over a game of Wii. The Bestest Evil Santa pick EvER! More WiiAnnabel wearing her Xmas gift from Rina Determination personified

Food Food and more Food

2008-12-22T21:36:00.000+11:00

We have such a packed week ahead! The family and some close friends are coming over for lunch on Christmas Day. The rest of the family will be over the day after. And we have a barbeque at a friend's the following day!

I lurve this time of the year.

Merry Christmas every one!

Masquarade Baby Faces on Parade

2008-12-19T10:26:00.007+11:00

We were at a party whose dress codes were a mask and cocktail attire. It was so much fun! And I only needed a tiny purse as I need not bother with the make up!!

Hunter Valley & Alicia Keys Weekend Updates

2008-12-15T22:08:00.001+11:00

As there are quite a few pictures taken over the weekend, I will leave this entry with mainly pictorial updates.

Wine tasting @ Tower Estate on a crowd free Friday.

If you squint really hard, you will find a tiny fly perched on her noise. Thus the face.Arrowfield Estate Nightingale Estate. Love their ports. Annabel and her favourite man.

Mel cooking breakfast. A Day on the Greens @ Bimbadgen Estate

Me and GenThere were 3 opening acts. Jordin Sparks (below), Lo Rider and some American dude we do not know. Finally. The main act Alicia Keys! If you look really really hard, you may just make her out! No luck? Try this one.Alright than. Shots of the big screen. I have always thought Alicia is beautiful but she is a lot more stunning real life. It is almost unfair how one could embody SO much talent! She is so musically gifted. Her supporting singers are amazing as well. It was an awesome night.

Annabel looking bright and alert just 5 mins before she comatose for the rest of the drive home.

Hunter Valley and Alicia Keys!!

2008-12-11T23:58:00.000+11:00

We are off to the hunter this weekend. We will be dining at a 2 chefs hat restaurant, wine tasting, visiting cheese factorys and attending the Alicia Keys concert. My toes are just wiggling with joy as I type! Pictures when I get back.

Have a great weekend!

Xmas cookies

2008-12-07T10:48:00.005+11:00

I am SO proud of the fact that I am SO organised this year. *wide smiles*

I try to make my gifts as personal as time allows each year. And because there are quite a few of us and a baby this time round, I decided I'd make the gang yummy butter vanilla cookies.

The Hsu's

2008-11-30T22:17:00.003+11:00

The Hsu's have been in our lives for 2 years and are our bible study buddies. We see each other often and have through the couple of years, grown very fond of them. We are also very encouraged by their dedication to the spread of the gospel and have had the privilege of serving along side them in our church. However come December, they will be moving to another church in inner west Sydney as part of their ministry training. We will miss them tremendously.

It has been an honor knowing them and we wish them all the best in the coming years ahead. God speed.

I could not reach for the camera in time and thus the picture. They were exchanging hugs and kisses. Aww.

Annabel's swim class

2008-11-12T14:18:00.003+11:00

It has taken me 6 months to take these picture, but nevertheless, here they are. Pictures of Annabel's swim class. Mum was the unofficial photographer.

Ouchie!

2008-10-27T07:15:00.001+11:00

Congratulations Tom and Ava!

2008-10-25T23:46:00.000+11:00

I love going to weddings. Especially when the groom is one of your close mates, and your hubby is one of the groomsmen. I also enjoy hearing the speeches. Even more so when they are filled with so much love and sincerity.

We are so happy for you both, and blessed to have shared in your joys and celebration. May God keep and bless your marriage always.

Annabel @ 9 months old

2008-10-23T08:44:00.009+11:00

Annabel is just 3 months shy from the big 1. I know I have been saying this a lot but I am constantly in awe of how quickly she is growing! And also very aware of how much I must treasure these precious moments. She is starting to crawl and can walk really well when held by both hands now. And since we got her her walker, she has been really keen to try walking on her very own!

She has a total of 4 teeth and can chomp off big pieces of banana. Amongst the many foods she enjoys, yogurt has been her new favourite thing in the world. And if given the chance, I am pretty sure she is capable of eating a full 6 tubs pack.

Annabel has always resembled Mel but of late, I was told by many that she is starting to look like me! I cannot really see the resemblance but I am really happy that she is FINALLY starting to look like mine. Just let one more person tell me how much she looks like everyone else but me..!! GRrrRRr!!

Besides her rapid development in her motor skills. She is also quickly growing into a little girl. Her joyous nature is contagious and just listening to her chuckle would make our day. She loves her Por Por and Gong Gong whom have been caring for her when mummy goes to work. And is also quickly discovering that her Grandparents are a lot more flexible and tolerant when it comes to rules around the house.

Annabel can get very animated and it is a scramble for the camera when it happens.
.

Red faced

2008-10-20T22:25:00.000+11:00

Ok. A couple of entries ago, I declared that I had passed my accounting exam and that my brains are still "in track".

Looks like I need to go into damage control!

NoooOOoooo!

A week past

2008-10-18T11:15:00.000+11:00

My first week at work has come and gone without much fuss. Annabel seems to be adjusting well to the new routine and I am actually enjoying my 3 days away from playing mummy. I am back on a part time basis till next year and I think this arrangment is a good transition for me. I had been off work for 9 months, which really is not a long time at all. But it will be interesting to see how I adept to working life again. I used to be pretty ambitious though not over the top, but I am always ready to push myself over my comfort zone and I don't mind changes nor would I shy away from challenges. I don't think I had lost the drive, but something inside of me is whispering something that seems to be sending me in the opposite direction. I do not know what that is yet, or where it will lead me, but I am excited.

Back to the grind.....

2008-10-11T10:56:00.001+11:00

Yes. My hoildays are finally over. Literally. I will be back to the work force come Monday and I am not happy campy. Annabel will be in Mum's care 3 times a week and I will have the remaining 2. It will be a huge adjustment for us both, but I am sure we will be fine.

Bring on the peak hour traffic and pack lunches!

I passed I passed I passed

2008-10-10T17:55:00.000+11:00

And with distinctions!!!! Woohoo! My brain is still in tack.

I am sooOoooOoooOooo happy.

5th Wedding Anniversary

2008-10-06T16:13:00.004+11:00

So. Yesterday was our 5th wedding anniversary. I cannot believe how fast the years have past! Every year, my husband would give me a traditional anniversary gift that suited the year. The 1st year was paper, to which he brought me out to a big seafood dinner (paper being the receipt I guess). 2nd was cotton. So he got us a luxurious 1000 count Sheridan hotel collection full bed sheet set. For the 3rd, he got me a leather bag. And the 4th was a huge bunch of lilies and champagne roses.

5th anniversary was meant to be wood, to which I was not overly thrilled about. So he decided he'd go modern instead. So we wounded up at Tiffany's to get me some silverware. *EEP* I was so excited because the last time we visited Tiffany's, I left almost hyperventilating after discovering how much we almost spent on a piece of jewellery (it was for my 30th). Needless to say, I left empty handed. I just wouldn't bring myself to to spend that much on a piece of jewellery. Even though it was studded with lots bling bling. Plus, we had just bought our apartment than. It was the sensible thing to do.

However, that was 4 years ago. This time round, I have no problem leaving my better sensible self at the door. *MUHAHAH* But aliais. I was reminded that I had to abide by the wedding anniversary gifts code and that for me this year was silver. So once again, bling bling was not meant to be.

Nevertheless. I was very happy with my little blue baged gift. And the one we both liked had a tiny tiny bling bling on it too. *jump for joy*

Thank you honey! And here is to many more great years to come.

Can you see the bling bling!!??

Singapore pictures - Part Three

2008-10-05T21:30:00.001+11:00

KK Children's Hospital

Day out with the family

Star of the moment

The Merlion

The Durian
Raffles City

Catching up with Friends

My ex-3Mmers

Singapore pictures - Part Two

2008-10-04T10:58:00.009+10:00

Annabel at Vivo City

Annabel first MRT ride

Little India

The Eye

Can you see the Formula 1 plateform?

Having a cold beer after an afternoon of shopping

Shopping at Haji Lane

Singapore pictures - Part One

2008-10-03T22:05:00.012+10:00

The trip to Singapore was eventful. There was a wedding. Family dinners. Family outings. Meeting up with friends. Great shopping. And loads of eating at various famous eating holes. Annabel was great most days and I was really relieved that the warm sticky weather did not get the better of her. She did have a misfortunate food allergy incident that winded her in the hospital. We had to spend a night at KK! How scary was that. It all came good in the end so it was not all that bad. I have posted pictures of our little "adventure" here. Oh. And Mel suffered from a bad case of food poisoning just 3rd day into his holiday. The poor guy spent most of his time in Singapore lying in bed and eating crackers. boohoo

Anyhoo. Here are the pictures as promised. And as there are quite a few I'd like to share. I will be posting them in a few entries.

We flew with Singapore new A380. Boy was it spacious!

Stairs leading down to the lower deck.

I had a personal bag compartment!

She looks so darn cute in the bassinet. Annabel's first time through Singa custom.
Annabel's first bus ride.

The prettiest candy treat in town!

In line for the famous Ghim Moh Nasi Lemak

I cannot believe we can still find Ting Ting candy!

A full package Singapore experience cannot be complete without a

traditional bath in the kitchen sink!

Vivo City
Shopping for chilli crab night! Thought we'd "Do A Karen Cheng" at the wedding reception.

The grand lobby of InterContinental.

Back from holidays!

2008-10-01T20:45:00.003+10:00

We are back from Singapore. It has been a great holiday with once again too much eating, catching up with friends and family, shopping and more eating. I have finally downloaded all my pictures and had them printed as well! That's such shocking news!! So I'll be posting them for you all real soon. Hopefully.

It's good to be home.

It's over!

2008-09-01T13:16:00.004+10:00

The final exam has finally come and gone! I left feeling like I did alright. Probably not distinction quality but still I am glad it is over.

This afternnon, I am one happy lady.

Singapore. Here I come!!

Another long night

2008-08-30T00:25:00.003+10:00

Looks like it's going to be another oil burner night. The assignment has been handed in and I aced my last test. Just one last hurdle to jump, the final exam come Monday. Than it's home run from there on end!

I could just smell the sweet sweet humid air of Singapore.

Excited.

Alicia Keys

2008-08-28T11:36:00.005+10:00

I cannot believe it. Alicia Keys is touring Australia come December.

And I HAVE TICKETS!!! WOOHOO!

Thanks Gen!

Click here for more details.
Bimbadgen Estate
Ticketek.com Alicia Keys 08

Hanging on

2008-08-25T02:31:00.000+10:00

It's now past 2am and I am 80% to completing our group assignment.

I am so past tired and my bums are starting to numb out from sitting in front of the lab top for way too long. But despite the aching bones and drooping eye bags, I am starting to feel a tiny bubble of excitement brewing deep inside me.

The end is near and yes I can feel it.

Night out with friends

2008-08-21T23:57:00.004+10:00

Just a simple night out with friends filled with interesting conversations, good laughs and great food.

Not far now

2008-08-18T16:18:00.004+10:00

About 3 months ago, I enrolled myself into a post graduate accounting course. It was a decision spurred on by half wanting to enhance my overall marketability (in terms of job prospects) and the other half, to make full use of my maternity leave to accomplish something other than caring for my baby.

The whole experience of going back to uni has been great thus far. I enjoy the lectures, the interaction with the other students, and the forming of new friendships. Above all, I enjoy the little breaks I get from my daily routine of baby diaper and endless washings.

But there were also the long nights I had stayed up to catch up on the studying. The Saturdays at campus working on the group assignments. And the frustration of not having enough time to do just about anything else.

It is now fast approaching the end of the course and though I am still enjoying it. I am happy the end is near. It has been somewhat exhausting and I miss spending time with my husband. I have one more test to sit, the completion of the assignment, and than the final exam to go. And waiting for me at the end of the tunnel, is my trip to Singapore. Just 3 and a bit more weeks to go now.

Watch out for the little hands

2008-08-15T10:23:00.001+10:00

A couple of weeks back. We took Annabel to the city for lunch at a sushi train restuarant. She was quite amused at the moving plates and was relatively happy watching them pass her by. That was 2 weeks ago. Of late, she has started to reach out and grap at anything within arm's reach. I have to constantly watch her now. A catch up over a cup of tea with friends is not quite as relaxing as before. And this is only just the beginning.

Better enjoy my peace while it last!

Shops to visit in Singapore

2008-08-13T11:31:00.003+10:00

Last weekend, the husband and I decided that we are going to take a holiday in September. We are to fly to Singapore to visit the family and also to attend a wedding. And the rest of the family (namely our parents) will also be flying back too. The husband sadly due to work commitments is only going to be there for over a week. However for me and the bub, it's going to be an extended 3 weeks stay. I am just shaking with uncontrollable joy!

There are so many people I want to catch up with. So many places I want to go visit. And of course SO many foods I want to eat! So. In true like Serene fashion. I had come up with a holiday list-of-things-to-do. And on the top of the list, you guessed it, is shopping.

It has been too long since I had gone shopping for myself. And the wardrobe is starting to feel and look really neglected and sad. So part of my aim this trip is to give myself a much needed fashion overhaul. Of the many shopping stops I'd like to make. There are 3 that are on top of my must visit picks.

Baylene. I found them about 3 years back whilst (reminscing of the past) roaming around the street where my grandfather's grama school used to stand years ago. The building now is known as Stamford House. And Baylene now occupies the shop where mum used to take me for our studio family shots when I was a littlie. It was love at first sight and I had made it a point to visit whenever I fly back and it'd be no different this trip round.

Womb. A friend of mine introduced me to them a while back and I had gone into their site and loved what I saw. I cannot wait to see what they have this season.

Soon Lee in Haji lane. I read about them from Karen Cheng and like Karen, I love scouting out new finds that are unique and different. I will definitely be paying Soon Lee a visit.

Just 2 words to end. Can't Wait!

Annabel @ almost 7 months

2008-08-11T10:23:00.004+10:00

I cannot believe Annabel is just 5 months shy from being a year old! She is weighting just under 7kgs now and can sit quite comfortably on her own. She has also become very proficient with her hands and is able to hold her toys with ease. Amongst her babbling, you could quite clearly make out a "dada" and "papa" now, which makes Daddy the happiest man alive.

Daddy has recently taught Annabel to stand, and since, she much prefers doing that than lazing in her rocker. Mummy is quite happy holding her for most parts of the day, excepts when Mummy needs to do the washing and cooking. Studying is getting harder too because Annabel seems to prefer mummy's thick accounting textbook and calculator to her flashy bright fisher price gadgets. In fact, she seems to prefer anything that mummy touches!

Annabel has started taking semi-solids and it has been so much fun. She has tried apples, pears, bananas, pumpkins, avocado, carrots and many more fruits and veges. Of the lot, banana has been her top pick. And proving to be a true offspring of a Tang and a Yip, she is capable of scoffing down a (large) banana in just one sitting. Followed by a standard doze of milk on the side.

Taking her to the supermarket is one of mummy's favourite pass time. Mummy could show her all the different delicious and colourful foods she has yet to try!

Swimming classes have been progressing well too. Annabel loves being in the water and would kick almost instinctively when put on her belly. She has been diving too and spots a super cute frog like movement when put under water. It always amazes mummy how comfortable she feels in the water.

Last but not least. Annabel will soon have 2 tiny teeth to add to her bag of tricks. She seems more amused at them than troubled thankfully and enjoys sticking her fingers in to feel them more often than should. Mummy on the other hand, who is still breastfeeding, is (quite understandably) not too amused.

Deprived

2008-08-08T19:48:00.000+10:00

Singapore

2008-08-02T19:21:00.000+10:00

For about 3 months, the husband and I have been discussing about making a trip to Singapore to attend a wedding in September. We had gone back and forth for the whole 3 months and finally this week, we decided we are going to make the trip. I am so excited! It has been over 2 years since I had set foot on my motherland and I miss her terribly. Making the trip with us are also my folks and the in laws. And I could just tell, it will be an incredible reunion.

Above all the anticipation. I am most excited to introduce to my daughter the country of my birth. I cannot wait for her to breathe in the hot humid air. To smell all the different culinary delights from my multi-cultural land. And for her to meet the family and my friends. Even if she is too young to comprehend it all. It will still be such a special moment for me.

So the countdown begins. Just over a month now.

So the fight for the remote begins....

2008-07-31T16:54:00.000+10:00

Ribs and Bibs

2008-07-27T09:19:00.005+10:00

This has definitely been my week. Not only did I get Friday night off (being mummy). I also got to hang with the gals Saturday night! 2nd night in a roll!! The husband had been a darling and had been taking care of Annie on both nights. Honey, you are the BEST!

So Saturday night was Ribs at the famous (ridiculously hard to get in too) Hurricanes. I had eaten at their reputed Bondi restaurant and have been dying to try out their new Darling Harbour restaurant. And I have to say, it has been worth the wait. It was truly a gastronomical treat. The ribs were just as juicy and tender as I remembered. It is meals like these that I am SO glad I am a carnivore.

Brave women in bibs.

New mates & Chocolate

2008-07-25T23:34:00.003+10:00

It has been a long while since I had been out and about by my lonesome. So when my uni mates suggested we met up for dinner and hot chocolate one Friday night, I was absolutely delighted. So the little one was left home to get all cosy up with Daddy while the mummy took some much needed me time.

Since starting my studies, I have been blessed to have met four wonderful and amazing girls. They are all smart, beautiful and ambious. And of course fun to be with. It really made this going back to uni experience all that more enriching for me. Their endearing warm friendly personalities have made all those 4 hours weekly lectures fly by and those Saturday project meets fun. Not to mention all the great chocolate treats that is always there just when you need a sugar hit! You guys are the best.

And of course, I had to post our delicious rich hot chocolate treat we had at Max Brenner. Hmm.

Gladiator heels aka Fierce shoes

2008-07-20T21:22:00.001+10:00

These are so hot right now. Sadly, I really don't think I can pull it off!

Meet my daughter (again)

2008-07-18T10:06:00.001+10:00

Only this time. It's The Model.

Flexing my brain muscles

2008-07-16T23:37:00.003+10:00

So, I am into my 4th week of my accounting course and it has been great thus far. My classmates / project group are all fun and loving people. And the lecturer is as interesting and witty as hell. Sure, there are quite of bit of reading and assignments that needs doing. And the occasional disciplining of the wandering mind that needs checking more often than hoped. All in all, it has been manageable. And judging from my first quiz results, I think I am doing alright.

But this is still early days so I am not counting my chickens just yet. Give me a couple more weeks into and I may be singing a completely different tune. So while the optimism is still in the air, and the CAN-DO spirit hangs on. I shall end by saying just how glad I am that I had taken the plunge and had given my brain muscles a much needed overdue work out.

Meet my daughter, the drummer.

2008-07-06T14:09:00.002+10:00

Spa Day

2008-07-04T12:39:00.001+10:00

ooOoh. I had been looking forward to this day for weeks! Last Xmas, amongst the many great pressies I received. 2 absolutely stood out. They were both vouchers to a one day spa treatment at 2 reputable luxurious spa day salons in Sydney. And for a tired out mummy like me, it spelt heaven.

Gen (the other lucky soul who was given the same fabulous gift) and I had just spent our Friday afternoon at the Orient-express (The Observatory Hotel Sydney) located a stone's throw from Sydney's historic Rocks getting insanely pampered. Besides indulging in an hour of full body massage, we also used the gym, the steam room, the sauna and who could resist a nice dip in the starred skylight pool. The whole experience was amazing and we left feeling absolutely relaxed and rejuvinated.

My only complain is my attire. I know I'm only petite. But surely they can do better than that!

Cuteness overload

2008-06-27T18:23:00.002+10:00

Annabel had a visitor today. J and Annie met when they were only barely 2 months old. And it is only now that they are realising each other's presence. J is one week older than Annie and he is already sitting on his own. Unassisted!! I cannot wait for Annie to do the same. Right now, she is spotting a super cute wobberly bent over (almost kissing the floor) seating posture. Not long now.

Oh. How fast they grow.

First day back at uni

2008-06-24T22:45:00.000+10:00

Well. It is really the first night back at uni. I had just sat through 4 hours (with one tiny 20 mins break) of lecture and my brain is buzzing with untamed excitment. And yes, the subject is accounting.

I am SO in need of a life!

Baby Center

2008-06-23T18:41:00.003+10:00

If you are a new mother, pregnant or trying to get pregnant. You need to sign on to this website.

Let me introduce you to Baby Center. It is a great site jam packed with heaps of information about everything relating to pregnency. From popular baby names, to creating your pregnency calender, to online discussion groups, breastfeeding solutions, to ovulation calculator. They even have interesting write ups for the keen new daddy! This site has it all.

And the best feature I love about it is that it gives you a week by week update of your baby's development from week 1 to to 3 years!!

To register. Click here.

The site is supported by Johnson & Johnson.

Happiness is...

2008-06-21T08:22:00.000+10:00

waking to a big bowl of piping hot oats cooked by the husband. And seeing your baby daughter's face lit up when you walk into her room.

Back to Uni

2008-06-20T23:56:00.001+10:00

I had signed up for an accounting post grad course about a month ago and next week is my first week back on campus. I simply cannot wait to get my brain muscles working again. Not to mention all the new people I will get to meet and a time once a week I can truly call my own!!

Can't wait! WWWeeeeEEee!!

My 1800-Pacifier(s)

2008-06-15T20:26:00.002+10:00

Annabel's sound asleep. How cute.

Swim Class One

2008-06-12T20:59:00.000+10:00

You are probably hoping to see some pictures but I was just so distracted by all the action that I totally forgot to take any!! HORRID!

The class was loads of fun. We twirled. (Attempt) paddled. (Attempt) splash. Sang nursery rhymes. Grab floating toys. And our little ones look their first dive! It was all too cute.

The whole experience was awesome. The change room was spacious. The water was inviting and warm. The instructor was involving. Not one of our babies cried!

And more importantly. Not one of our babies pooped!!

SALEM

2008-06-10T16:54:00.000+10:00

This is SO much fun. Try creating your very own Fake Magazine Covers here.

Annabel's Lust-Have

2008-06-08T17:52:00.000+10:00

We are (ok... the mummy is) so in lurve with Amelie’s Room crocheted hats. If only they make them for mums too!

Rain. Rain. Rain.

2008-06-05T16:40:00.000+10:00

It has been raining cloudy skies for over a week! And it looks like it's not going to stop anytime soon. So instead of letting the grey weather get the better of me, I'm taking this time to try to work my camera to capture some of the brilliant large droplets of rain pouring down into my balcony. Calling all photographers out there. Any tips?

Plush Splash

2008-06-03T16:09:00.003+10:00

A week ago I, together with 7 other friends from mother’s group, signed our little offsprings up for a swim class for bubs over 3 months. The class commences next week and we are all simply trembling with childlike excitement.

If you have a bub and are thinking of joining a swimming class or simply a splash in a pool. You could get yourself a free "Huggies Little Swimmers” sample here.

I can’t wait! Wweee!!!

Annie Picture Update

2008-05-31T15:48:00.002+10:00

Four months old and standing tall.... aww....

Mid Year Resolutions & a very long post.

2008-05-29T22:26:00.004+10:00

You have been warned...

I have never been a fan of making New Year resolutions. Many years of failed attempts has taught me that it's simply not worth the guilt trip. So for the past 3 years, instead of greeting New Years with ambitious unachievable set goals, I reflect back on the year past and congratulate myself for surviving through yet another one unscathed. It has worked well for me thus far,until recently.

Since the start of this year, I have been on maternity leave and am currently mid way through my 9 months break off paid work. It was a shift in gear for me as I got used to being a stay at home mum. It was not easy at first, but I have since adjusted and have been fairly happy. However of late, for some unexplainable reason, I have been bugged with an unshakable feeling of under achievement.

Please don’t get me wrong. I know that motherhood is a huge responsibility that one should be proud of. And I am! It is a tough job. And nurturing a baby is by no means an easy task. However, I just cannot help but feel like I am allowing time to slip me by without me having to account for much besides nursing my baby.

So. Despite my better judgment and conviction of not setting resolutions. I have decided I will do so after all, albeit it being mid year. The objective being that I may come out of these remaining 4 months knowing I have accomplished something, other than playing mum, which again I stress, is a very enriching and important role that I am enjoying tremendously.

Alias, my mid year resolutions.

- Exercise more. At least an hour, twice a week. This could either be a walk round the block, a run in the park or simply a nice stroll to the shops.

- Experimenting more with my camera. I had taken a photography course late 06 and have since been playing around with my SLR. But I haven’t really given “taking pictures” much thought. I would like to compose my shots better. To frame it better. And to pay more attention to lighting, shadows, viewpoints & perspectives, and to incorporate “good lining” into my picture composition.

- Take up a course. You may have read about my decision to do a post grad certificate. I have submitted my application and have since been accepted. The course commences late June. I can’t wait!

- Getting to know my neighborhood better. I know it sounds weird but for some unexplainable reason, we often find ourselves venturing out to other suburbs more so than staying put and discovering our own back yard!?

- Have more fun with bub. This is a given. Annabel is not going to stay a baby for long. I intend to enjoy it as much as I can while it last.

And I too intend to post updates on my new goals from time to time. You know, just to hold myself accountable. *Smiles*

Back to Uni???

2008-05-21T15:44:00.003+10:00

For the past few weeks, I had been toying with the idea of going back to uni. Well, not exactly going back to uni, but doing a post-graduate course. In fact, it has been an idea I had been toying with for almost a year now. I felt the need to upgrade myself. To see if my brain still has the capacity to learn, in an academic way.

So one fine day a couple of weeks back, I finally got myself down to campus to speak with a student consultant. We talked through what I wanted (which was to complement my engineering degree with something that would help me move into project or general management), the courses available, the facilities, and study time required. I was a little relief to learn that the consultant herself is also a mum (of 2!) and had done several courses with ease. The course will also allow me to gain credit points for their post-grad certificate, diploma and MBA programs, which is a bonus. The meeting ended with me feeling absolutely encouraged and looking forward to being labeled student again.

So yes, I have filed in my application for "Accounting for Management" and am now awaiting acceptance from the university. I am going to be a broke, however this time round, time poor student again. I simply can’t wait!!

*Glee*

Baby Bonds Competition

2008-05-19T16:13:00.001+10:00

Just for fun, I signed Annabel up for 2008 Baby Bonds competition. The competition was held at Bondi Westfield mid last week, from 9am to midday. My folks heard of it and decided to tag along for support. We arrived at around 10am and found a long queue. A very looOOOoooOOoong queue, where the starting point stretches WAY OUTSIDE the mall onto the streets. Australia's first asian bonds baby Annabel was not meant to be.

So off to the beaches we headed. We ate Doyles fish and chips by the foreshore, stroll by Watson Bay and played with seagulls (by pretending to feed them.. hehe). It turned out to be a great day spent out with the parents and the Bonds wannabe baby.

For those who missed out on the event, there is an online competition where you could load your bubbie's picture onto their website. The winner would be the one with the most votes. I just couldn't be bothered. But if you can, click here.

Listerine as a repellent?

2008-05-16T15:05:00.007+10:00

I read somewhere that listerine (mixed with some water) could be used as a mosquito repellent!? I have not tried to see if it works as yet (it's almost winter here in Australia and those little buggers have gone into hidding) but I'll be willing to give it a shot come summer.

Has anyone tried and think it works?

My first mother's day

2008-05-13T12:14:00.001+10:00

Last Sunday, I celebrated my first mother’s day. The celebration started on Friday actually with the husband bringing me out for chili crab at our favorite local Chinese restaurant. On Saturday, mum surprised me with an extravagant home cooked lobster dinner! She even made me my favorite raw salmon sushi. Yum.

After devouring the delicious meal, the husband and I set off to watch a performance by a national well known cappella quartet “The Idea of North” at a beautiful small theater The Independent in North Sydney.

On Sunday, we attended morning service at Mum & Dad’s church and feasted on a smorgasbord of home cooked foods. Than it was off to our church in the city followed by another feast at Auntie’s. Annabel was a doll all weekend and gave mummy lots of smiles and chuckles. It was an awesome weekend.

How did you celebrate mother’s day?

In my inbox

2008-05-12T12:49:00.000+10:00

When the sun goes down...

2008-05-02T21:51:00.000+10:00

and night grows cold and still. And the baby tucked in warm and safe.

We play Rummikub!

Welcome to my new life.

Bubbie Update

2008-04-30T15:33:00.002+10:00

Annabel has just turned 3 months and she is developing beautifully. She sleeps through nights and is mostly happy playing by herself when put down. Although she would much rather have long chats with her mummy and daddy.

Annabel is a jovial baby. Just shoot a smile and a laugh her way and you will most likely get one back. Put her in front of the mirror and you get several minutes of self chuckling amusement. She is so much fun and is simply adorable.

Her trade mark features are her big eyes and gravity defying hair. I love how that makes her look constantly stunned and in awe. Like she cannot believe how beautiful the world is and how amazing and interesting a fluffy bunny can be.

She is learning fast what a camera is. It is something big and black and gets pointed right at her whenever she does anything remotely cute. And like most things, she finds it fascinating. Mummy is loving it too. She is getting lots of great shots of her little baby.

*sign* If only time would just stand still for a moment...

Epitome of cuteness

2008-04-24T20:03:00.003+10:00

I am still recovering from cuteness overdoze!

The sun is out

2008-04-20T10:18:00.001+10:00

And I finally get to wear my new shades!

More on Perth

2008-04-15T22:55:00.010+10:00

Our visit to Perth this time round was very much different from all other trips we did in the past. Before, our main objectives usually evolves around visiting our favorite hang out spots, short getaways to Margaret River, catch up with friends, pubbing and loads of shopping. Now, with a little baby, it was harder to just up and go. We had to plan our day around the little one and made sure she gets enough of her beauty sleep. So most days were spent around Subi where it was near home. We did however manage to catch up with heaps of friends and of course, ate ourselves silly.

Of the many places we ate out at, one particularly stood out for me. A good mate of ours took us there. To a little quiet town called Mundaring, to this little joint called Little Caesars Pizzeria. Where they are well known for, yes, the name says it all, Pizzas! We had heard about this little 4-booth (mainly take out) restaurant from Gen, who had visited the place just 2 weeks prior and had all good things to say about it. So we were really looking forward to check it out.

We ordered 4 to sample and knew after our first bite what the fuzz was all about. The crust was crisp and light. The sauce tasty yet not over powering. The toppings fresh and well proportioned. I wished they used more cheese though. However, in short, it was altogether a yummy experience. Word of warning if you are thinking of hitting this joint and decide to order the Tabasco. NEVER go for the hottest. We did and boy was it hot. Disturbingly HOT. I'm talking burning lips, scorching tongue HOT. I was literally speechless just after 2 bites. I simply could not finish the darn slice! The boys of course had to come to the rescue and devour the rest. *Sweats*. Personally, I don't think pizzas should ever be THAT hot. It's the Italians for crying out loud, not Mexicans! Anyhow, besides that, I highly recommend at least one visit. The atmosphere was very relaxing and for a small price, you do get a little taste of Italy. Though in a very obscure Aussie town. I love it.

Here's Annabel trying to get her hands on the dessert pizza. Yes. You heard right. They make dessert pizzas. The one in the photo is Eskimo Joe. And it is TO-DIE-FOR. Yum.

The trip of course is never complete without a quick pit stop over at Little Creatures in Freeyo. 4 words. Chilli Mussels with BEER!! Yum.

Rain Rain Rain

2008-04-14T15:26:00.000+10:00

Nothing else to do but to sit home and watch the pita peta fall off my roof.