Ah ma told me about a week or two in advance that she was going to cook some of her signature dishes for us (us = Desmond and family) because Chinese New Year is coming up. On the menu were Ngoh Hiang (minced meat rolled up in bean curd skin) and Sea Cucumber with Duck Stew. I told her I would go over to help her. I know how tedious it is to make Ngoh Hiang. I've helped her once before and it'd took us a almost a day just to make that dish.
Desmond sent Alyssa and I to my parents' place. I was really excited about helping Ah Ma with the dishes. I haven't done things with her in a long while, ever since I was pregnant. Sometimes it's nice to be doing something with her. It reminds me of the times when I was young, when she would take me out, buy me stuff, albeit nothing expensive or fancy, or simply, when she was just telling me stories of how she used to toil for a living and imparted me with values which I will grow up with.
I could tell she was very excited about making food for me. The stew was already boiling and much of the preparation work had already been done for the Ngoh Hiang when I got there. All the work that was left was simply to wrap the meat and fry them. But damn, Alyssa just had to be a bad girl today. She kept crying non-stop ever since we got to my parents' place and all I managed to help her with was to wrap 5 rolls of Ngoh Hiang.
I realised Ah Ma has really aged when I saw the prep she had done. The ingredients that were mixed together for the Ngoh Hiang were coarser than usual. Ah Ma has high standards when it comes to cooking for us - this couldn't be a result of her carelessness. The preparation must have been really hard work. Yet, she took the trouble to make that dish for me because she knows I like it.
I carried Alyssa around the house to soothe her and sometimes we'd popped to the kitchen to watch Ah Ma cook. Somehow, I found her appearing smaller than I ever remembered. I'd remembered a strong and sturdy lady taking me to the market when I was small, and carrying 5 or 6 bags full of grocery when we returned. However, she just looked so thin and frail today.
After the cooking had been done, she scooped some of the stew into a container for me so I could bring it home, while leaving the rest of it for my family for dinner tonight. While she was doing that, I wondered why she kept digging into the stew and hardly put anything into the container. She said, 'all the sea cucumber has melted.' Fact was, sea cucumber hadn't melt. It was that her vision deteriorated so much, she couldn't make out the sea cucumber from the mushrooms. She must have given me all the sea cucumber in the stew because that's all we got to eat during dinner.
Later in the night, she called to check on how we'd found the food.
To me, it had been the most delicious dinner ever.
23.1.09
22.1.09
A Thousand Splendid Suns
I finally finished the book, A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini. I think it is by far the best and most tragic book I've ever read.
This is a gripping story about 2 women who lived in Afghanistan - how their separate lives came to be intertwined and how they found solace in each other in a really grim time. This book is a page turner. Unexpected events kept me reading on and beautiful descriptions spurred my imagination. I could most definitely imagine the setting of the story and feel for the characters. Never before had a book made me tear and this book did just that.
I felt for Mariam most. She was a young lady full of ambitions and inspirations, yet she was dealt a cruel blow by reality when she realised what her mother said had all been true and it wasn't because she was bitter about what she had gone through. I wished there was a better ending to Mariam's life, that she managed to break the mold of a typical woman in Afghanistan or at least break free of the life she was 'destined' to lead from the beginning, but sadly, she did not. However, I applaud her bravery for killing the husband she shared with Laila and taking the responsibility for it to free Laila so she and her children could have a new lease of life.
After this book, I appreciate what I have much, much more.
I'm so glad I was born and live in a safe and nice place like Singapore and do not have to fear for my life every single day. I can walk the streets without worrying that a bomb may hit me and send me flying up a tree. I do not have to worry for my family and friends when I do not see them.
I'm glad I do not have to share my husband with other women and endure malicious attacks by him. I'm glad I'm respected by him and am not looked upon as if I'm worthless like a cockroach.
I'm glad I do not have to be separated from my children because a war has made me too poor to feed them.
Sometimes, people who have it good don't realise what they have until they lose it. I hope there will never be such a day for me.
21.1.09
Hectic Weekend
The weekend had been crazy since my last blog on Friday.
The next morning I woke up, I felt so tired and I had to rush for my hair appointment at DJ Salon at Orchard. Luckily my sweetheart Desmond bathed Alyssa that morning so I got a bit more sleep. I rebonded and coloured my hair. I would say I'm a little disappointed with the end result. Just one day after all the hairstyling, my hair became frizzy. I thought I had paid for the better chemical which that hairstylist said 'also has treatment'. The treatment certainly didn't work on my hair. I had to go back yesterday and demand that they do something about my hair, which they gave me a free trim afterwards. However, I think the damange done to my hair was far too great. The trim wasn't enough to get rid of all the frizzy strands and my hair still looks rather frizzy overall. Desmond specifically told me not to return to that hair salon ever. The only redeeming part of the entire hair styling experience at this salon is that I like my hair colour now.
After the hair appointment, we attended Wanching's wedding dinner at Novotel Clarke Quay. It was quite fun actually. Of all of Desmond's groups of friends, I enjoy hanging out with the Gilbert group and his secondary school friends group (this is the Wanching group of friends) the most. Anyway, as usual, Alyssa was a dearie most of the time during the dinner. She amazes me with her ability to sleep no matter how noisy a place is. On the contrary, Ing Ing's baby was really active and refused to sleep. Thank God for Alyssa.
I finally got to watch the wedding video that was up for the Golden Globe nominations. I must say the first half of the video was really quite funny but the rest of it was too unnatural. Most of the scenes had to be retaken because of the effect the videographer wanted to achieve. Sure, the video turned out like a mini film but it lost some reality of what happened that day. In my option, the purpose of a wedding video is to capture what happened that day in it's most unaltered form. I'm afraid that video lost out due to that. I could tell from the faces in the video that those involved had also been really pissed off because they had to 'redo' parts of the wedding just to achieve the effects the videographer desired. Luckily that person (Nelson Pang) wasn't the videographer for my wedding. I discover though that Desmond may have the makings of a good actor. I think I better be more careful of him from now on.
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Desmond with 'Boon Lay Sling'. Guess the recipe?
The next morning I woke up, I felt so tired and I had to rush for my hair appointment at DJ Salon at Orchard. Luckily my sweetheart Desmond bathed Alyssa that morning so I got a bit more sleep. I rebonded and coloured my hair. I would say I'm a little disappointed with the end result. Just one day after all the hairstyling, my hair became frizzy. I thought I had paid for the better chemical which that hairstylist said 'also has treatment'. The treatment certainly didn't work on my hair. I had to go back yesterday and demand that they do something about my hair, which they gave me a free trim afterwards. However, I think the damange done to my hair was far too great. The trim wasn't enough to get rid of all the frizzy strands and my hair still looks rather frizzy overall. Desmond specifically told me not to return to that hair salon ever. The only redeeming part of the entire hair styling experience at this salon is that I like my hair colour now.
After the hair appointment, we attended Wanching's wedding dinner at Novotel Clarke Quay. It was quite fun actually. Of all of Desmond's groups of friends, I enjoy hanging out with the Gilbert group and his secondary school friends group (this is the Wanching group of friends) the most. Anyway, as usual, Alyssa was a dearie most of the time during the dinner. She amazes me with her ability to sleep no matter how noisy a place is. On the contrary, Ing Ing's baby was really active and refused to sleep. Thank God for Alyssa.
I finally got to watch the wedding video that was up for the Golden Globe nominations. I must say the first half of the video was really quite funny but the rest of it was too unnatural. Most of the scenes had to be retaken because of the effect the videographer wanted to achieve. Sure, the video turned out like a mini film but it lost some reality of what happened that day. In my option, the purpose of a wedding video is to capture what happened that day in it's most unaltered form. I'm afraid that video lost out due to that. I could tell from the faces in the video that those involved had also been really pissed off because they had to 'redo' parts of the wedding just to achieve the effects the videographer desired. Luckily that person (Nelson Pang) wasn't the videographer for my wedding. I discover though that Desmond may have the makings of a good actor. I think I better be more careful of him from now on.
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Desmond with 'Boon Lay Sling'. Guess the recipe?The next day, we were clearly exhausted after a night of feasting. We made our way to Tgore's place nevertheless, to collect a shelf we had there. My mother wanted the shelf at her place for my sisters' ever expanding collection of toys and books. We got there at 2 and had to wait for an hour before the mover arrived. I realised the importance of punctuality and I swear it's a quality I will instill in Alyssa as she grows up. We chatted with Tgore during that hour and he was going to meet up with someone who may help him to set up some business in Singapore. I hope that meeting went well for him. I should probably check up on him.
After the mover came to collect the shelf, we proceeded to my parents' place, picked up TWK and FFM and went to Jurong Point. We had collected all the jeans that had not been worn in ages and were prepared to go to the Levi's Store to trade in our jeans. It looked like there was a war in Levi's. People just kept entering the small store, rummaging through the racks of jeans as if jeans were free. The queue to try on the jeans was long despite the store having 3 changing rooms. TWK and FFM helped to look after Alyssa a bit while Desmond and I tried on the jeans we wanted to buy. Just as Desmond wanted to try on a different size for this pair of jeans he had tried earlier, I heard a familar sound from outside of the store - Alyssa's cry. She was practically wailing her lungs out. Imagine a noisy shopping mall and a noisy store and yet I still manage to hear to her cries. The store assistant was shocked by Alyssa's crying and actually sent me out of the store to look at her first. Gosh. That was really so embarrassing. We hurried made payments and left Jurong Point.
Back at my parents' place, I thought I finally had the chance to rest. Then the unthinkable had to happen when Desmond was trying on his jeans so my mother could alter the length for him - the jeans didn't exactly fit him. It was too tight at the waist when he sat down. There was a looming possibility we had to return to the store to exchange for a bigger pair of jeans. After a couple of hours of pondering, we finally decided to return to the store. You can bet we were exhausted after that trip. Never was I so glad to return home (except for the time I was home from the hospital after giving birth to Alyssa).
There was finally some peace after 4 days of running about. Today is all about staying at home, looking after Alyssa and MAHJONG! TFH and Rebeca came to visit Alyssa (I think that visiting Alyssa is just an excuse) and we had a game with my Brother-in-law after that. I think my winning streak is coming to an end. Sigh.
Anyway, I just hope tomorrow will be a relaxing day too.
After the mover came to collect the shelf, we proceeded to my parents' place, picked up TWK and FFM and went to Jurong Point. We had collected all the jeans that had not been worn in ages and were prepared to go to the Levi's Store to trade in our jeans. It looked like there was a war in Levi's. People just kept entering the small store, rummaging through the racks of jeans as if jeans were free. The queue to try on the jeans was long despite the store having 3 changing rooms. TWK and FFM helped to look after Alyssa a bit while Desmond and I tried on the jeans we wanted to buy. Just as Desmond wanted to try on a different size for this pair of jeans he had tried earlier, I heard a familar sound from outside of the store - Alyssa's cry. She was practically wailing her lungs out. Imagine a noisy shopping mall and a noisy store and yet I still manage to hear to her cries. The store assistant was shocked by Alyssa's crying and actually sent me out of the store to look at her first. Gosh. That was really so embarrassing. We hurried made payments and left Jurong Point.
Back at my parents' place, I thought I finally had the chance to rest. Then the unthinkable had to happen when Desmond was trying on his jeans so my mother could alter the length for him - the jeans didn't exactly fit him. It was too tight at the waist when he sat down. There was a looming possibility we had to return to the store to exchange for a bigger pair of jeans. After a couple of hours of pondering, we finally decided to return to the store. You can bet we were exhausted after that trip. Never was I so glad to return home (except for the time I was home from the hospital after giving birth to Alyssa).
There was finally some peace after 4 days of running about. Today is all about staying at home, looking after Alyssa and MAHJONG! TFH and Rebeca came to visit Alyssa (I think that visiting Alyssa is just an excuse) and we had a game with my Brother-in-law after that. I think my winning streak is coming to an end. Sigh.
Anyway, I just hope tomorrow will be a relaxing day too.
16.1.09
Busy Busy!!!
I've been a busy bee for the past couple of days.
I've been busy washing the clothes I've bought for Chinese New Year. In case you wonder what's the great deal about washing clothes, I'll tell you, it's really damn big a deal as I hand wash them. And it wasn't just my clothes but Alyssa's too. Don't ever underestimate the amount of clothes a baby can change into, especially on days when she poos, which by the way, was what she has been doing for the past couple of days (I think maybe Alyssa knows how to read and she's been reading my blog behind my back).
I've been busy helping Tgore gather boxes so he could pack. Actually I got boxes from him with the help of my father-in-law and my mum and Desmond and I sent those boxes to him Thursday night. Banita was at his place having a few drinks as her husband had to work late and I finally got to meet Tgore's new housemate (ok, not exactly new, it's been half a year but I never met him before). Andrea (I assume that's how his name is spelt) is a nice guy from Serbia (do you know where Serbia is?). Gentlemanly and cute (I should have taken a picture of him!) and his craziness reminded me of myself before I met Desmond and when we were just beginning to date. I used to be a party animal who always get myself into various troubles and situations as well (I'm glad I'm no longer like that but I do miss partying!). Anyway, all of us chilled at Tgore's place and it was really nice. I realised I really miss those good old days and I'll miss Tgore greatly if he should really return to India. I pray hard that he'll be able to find a decent good job in the next two weeks and we can continue to hang out like we used to do in the good old days. Nevertheless, we said that we'll have a great party before he leaves, if he really does leave.
I also finally brought my golf clubs and also a painting which I bought in Bali the last time I was there, back from his place that night. I could tell my parents-in-law are very amazed I own a full set of golf clubs. I know I don't look like a golfer but I truly enjoy golf and I will pick it up again soon.
I've been busy today at Desmond's friend's place. It was the wedding (just the traditional ceremony) of Wanching, one of his good friends. He went to her place early this morning to help out with her wedding as a 'sister' (God, my husband? Sister?) I heard from him the videographer they hired sucked (yes, he looked like he sucks. He was pretty rude to me when I joined them at Wanching's grandma's place later on, telling me not to enter the room because the 'filming' was going on. How was I to know what they were going into the room for? Desmond never told me and it was only natural that I'll follow him around at a place full of strangers). I'm dying to see the video tomorrow night during the wedding dinner so I can see what sort of Oscars nomination the videographer was up for. Anyway, after the morning ceremony, we went to Ing Ing's place (another of his good friends) for MAHJONG!!! It was the toughest mahjong session ever because there were not one, but TWO crying babies - mine and Ing Ing's. My god, we were literally taking turns to leave the mahjong session to soothe the crying babies. One port took 4 hours to complete. What a world record. I think the crying babies totally freaked out another friend of Desmond's and made him realised that he's still not ready for babies. I told him no one will truly know the meaning of being tired until they have babies. I'm sure he will sympathize with this statement one day.
I have also identified Desmond as my mahjong nemesis. I was winning, or rather, I had some winnings. But I had to hit out a card which enabled him to game instead during the last round and there, I lost all my winnings to him. You may think, 'it's ok, he's your husband,' but no. I'm sorry to announce that ties don't count where mahjong is concerned. !@#%%)#%*^*
I'm so tired now and tomorrow's going to be another hectic day. I think I better get some rest now. =S
I've been busy washing the clothes I've bought for Chinese New Year. In case you wonder what's the great deal about washing clothes, I'll tell you, it's really damn big a deal as I hand wash them. And it wasn't just my clothes but Alyssa's too. Don't ever underestimate the amount of clothes a baby can change into, especially on days when she poos, which by the way, was what she has been doing for the past couple of days (I think maybe Alyssa knows how to read and she's been reading my blog behind my back).
I've been busy helping Tgore gather boxes so he could pack. Actually I got boxes from him with the help of my father-in-law and my mum and Desmond and I sent those boxes to him Thursday night. Banita was at his place having a few drinks as her husband had to work late and I finally got to meet Tgore's new housemate (ok, not exactly new, it's been half a year but I never met him before). Andrea (I assume that's how his name is spelt) is a nice guy from Serbia (do you know where Serbia is?). Gentlemanly and cute (I should have taken a picture of him!) and his craziness reminded me of myself before I met Desmond and when we were just beginning to date. I used to be a party animal who always get myself into various troubles and situations as well (I'm glad I'm no longer like that but I do miss partying!). Anyway, all of us chilled at Tgore's place and it was really nice. I realised I really miss those good old days and I'll miss Tgore greatly if he should really return to India. I pray hard that he'll be able to find a decent good job in the next two weeks and we can continue to hang out like we used to do in the good old days. Nevertheless, we said that we'll have a great party before he leaves, if he really does leave.
I also finally brought my golf clubs and also a painting which I bought in Bali the last time I was there, back from his place that night. I could tell my parents-in-law are very amazed I own a full set of golf clubs. I know I don't look like a golfer but I truly enjoy golf and I will pick it up again soon.
I've been busy today at Desmond's friend's place. It was the wedding (just the traditional ceremony) of Wanching, one of his good friends. He went to her place early this morning to help out with her wedding as a 'sister' (God, my husband? Sister?) I heard from him the videographer they hired sucked (yes, he looked like he sucks. He was pretty rude to me when I joined them at Wanching's grandma's place later on, telling me not to enter the room because the 'filming' was going on. How was I to know what they were going into the room for? Desmond never told me and it was only natural that I'll follow him around at a place full of strangers). I'm dying to see the video tomorrow night during the wedding dinner so I can see what sort of Oscars nomination the videographer was up for. Anyway, after the morning ceremony, we went to Ing Ing's place (another of his good friends) for MAHJONG!!! It was the toughest mahjong session ever because there were not one, but TWO crying babies - mine and Ing Ing's. My god, we were literally taking turns to leave the mahjong session to soothe the crying babies. One port took 4 hours to complete. What a world record. I think the crying babies totally freaked out another friend of Desmond's and made him realised that he's still not ready for babies. I told him no one will truly know the meaning of being tired until they have babies. I'm sure he will sympathize with this statement one day.
I have also identified Desmond as my mahjong nemesis. I was winning, or rather, I had some winnings. But I had to hit out a card which enabled him to game instead during the last round and there, I lost all my winnings to him. You may think, 'it's ok, he's your husband,' but no. I'm sorry to announce that ties don't count where mahjong is concerned. !@#%%)#%*^*
I'm so tired now and tomorrow's going to be another hectic day. I think I better get some rest now. =S
13.1.09
Unhappy Day
Today was supposedly a good day. I was going to meet my adopted father, Tgore and Banita for lunch and Desmond was coming along because he was on child sick leave. I was really excited to see them after a long time and I thought it was really nice to have Desmond along.
When I got to my ex-workplace, I just got this terrible grim feeling. I learnt from Tgore a few days ago that my ex-agency had ran into serious financial problems. Employees haven't received their pay for 2 months and it was owing SPH tons of money for the previous ad releases. This was quite a shock for me. Previously, Tgore had always told me that things were picking up at the agency after I had left. For a while, I was quite tempted to return to the agency when I was feeling really frustrated at my current workplace due to the presence of some evil old witch who was making life difficult for me. Now, I thank my lucky stars that I hadn't. I can't imagine the dire consequences if I should not receive salary for 2 months. Tgore and Banita who were always cheerful also appeared down and listless. The look of Tgore after I had dropped him off back to the agency after lunch was almost one of depressed. I don't think I have seen him wear such an expression before.
Desmond, TFH and I went to Orchard after lunch to walk around. I wanted to get some new clothes for Desmond. I don't understand why he must always dress so shabbily and that really pisses me off sometimes. He is probably the most slip shot person I have seen in my entire life. We went to Levi's and managed to find a nice top for him. He insisted that he shouldn't buy jeans this time round because Levi's is a having a promotion whereby they gladly offer 50bucks off a pair of jeans if you had brought an old pair of jeans for trading in. Fair enough, if we could save 50 bucks, why not.
We continued walking around and for some strange reasons, the Guccis and LVs of the world are beckoning me today and I decided to enter LV. I just wanted to look around since I've never been into a LV boutique. And come on, it isn't as if I can't afford one. Bloody Desmond had to behave like I'm some crazy person dreaming to go into LV and was rather reluctant to get into one. While I looked around the shop and Desmond was actually advising me on the types of LV bags I could consider buying. Alright, I took a look at those bags at his recommendations. After a while, I was really attempted to buy one but I couldn't decide on the colour - white or brown. White was nice but I already have a white Gucci bag and I don't have any dark coloured bag. I was also considering if I really need another bag. Then at that point of time, Desmond said something that pissed me off big time 'Think carefully, your bag could pay for Alyssa's milk powder for 2 years.'
What the fuck is he talking about?! Firstly, Alyssa is a breastfed baby, what fucking milk powder does he have to buy for her? Secondly, I can well afford to buy tons of milk powder for Alyssa even if I buy 2 of those LV bags. Just what the fuck is wrong with this guy?! If he's trying to make me feel guilty and deter me from buying the bag, he's done it the wrong way big time.
Object of argument
I'm really pissed with him and I still don't wish to speak to him as of this moment of blogging. I should have married someone who would say 'Go on, buy 10 of these bags. I think they are wonderful buys and you are so smart, darling.' URGH.
I received a call from Tgore during dinner while still fuming and he broke the unthinkable news to me: the agency is winding up. I think I'll have to visit him in India every year then. I'm really sad to think that he might be leaving. I owe alot of what I am and what I have today, to him. I really can't imagine him gone and not around to dispense me ready advice. It's as if the sky is almost falling on me.
I had to wash Alyssa's clothes for an hour to take my mind off these terrible things. I hope tomorrow will be a better day.
When I got to my ex-workplace, I just got this terrible grim feeling. I learnt from Tgore a few days ago that my ex-agency had ran into serious financial problems. Employees haven't received their pay for 2 months and it was owing SPH tons of money for the previous ad releases. This was quite a shock for me. Previously, Tgore had always told me that things were picking up at the agency after I had left. For a while, I was quite tempted to return to the agency when I was feeling really frustrated at my current workplace due to the presence of some evil old witch who was making life difficult for me. Now, I thank my lucky stars that I hadn't. I can't imagine the dire consequences if I should not receive salary for 2 months. Tgore and Banita who were always cheerful also appeared down and listless. The look of Tgore after I had dropped him off back to the agency after lunch was almost one of depressed. I don't think I have seen him wear such an expression before.
Desmond, TFH and I went to Orchard after lunch to walk around. I wanted to get some new clothes for Desmond. I don't understand why he must always dress so shabbily and that really pisses me off sometimes. He is probably the most slip shot person I have seen in my entire life. We went to Levi's and managed to find a nice top for him. He insisted that he shouldn't buy jeans this time round because Levi's is a having a promotion whereby they gladly offer 50bucks off a pair of jeans if you had brought an old pair of jeans for trading in. Fair enough, if we could save 50 bucks, why not.
We continued walking around and for some strange reasons, the Guccis and LVs of the world are beckoning me today and I decided to enter LV. I just wanted to look around since I've never been into a LV boutique. And come on, it isn't as if I can't afford one. Bloody Desmond had to behave like I'm some crazy person dreaming to go into LV and was rather reluctant to get into one. While I looked around the shop and Desmond was actually advising me on the types of LV bags I could consider buying. Alright, I took a look at those bags at his recommendations. After a while, I was really attempted to buy one but I couldn't decide on the colour - white or brown. White was nice but I already have a white Gucci bag and I don't have any dark coloured bag. I was also considering if I really need another bag. Then at that point of time, Desmond said something that pissed me off big time 'Think carefully, your bag could pay for Alyssa's milk powder for 2 years.'
What the fuck is he talking about?! Firstly, Alyssa is a breastfed baby, what fucking milk powder does he have to buy for her? Secondly, I can well afford to buy tons of milk powder for Alyssa even if I buy 2 of those LV bags. Just what the fuck is wrong with this guy?! If he's trying to make me feel guilty and deter me from buying the bag, he's done it the wrong way big time.
Object of argumentI'm really pissed with him and I still don't wish to speak to him as of this moment of blogging. I should have married someone who would say 'Go on, buy 10 of these bags. I think they are wonderful buys and you are so smart, darling.' URGH.
I received a call from Tgore during dinner while still fuming and he broke the unthinkable news to me: the agency is winding up. I think I'll have to visit him in India every year then. I'm really sad to think that he might be leaving. I owe alot of what I am and what I have today, to him. I really can't imagine him gone and not around to dispense me ready advice. It's as if the sky is almost falling on me.
I had to wash Alyssa's clothes for an hour to take my mind off these terrible things. I hope tomorrow will be a better day.
12.1.09
All in a Day
Old wives' tales have it that you can't praise your baby in front of it, otherwise it'll be bad e.g. if you say she's cute, she would become not cute, if you say the baby is healthy, the baby will become unhealthy. Bunch of crap right? So defiantly, I was telling my mother-in-law that Alyssa has became a good girl and hardly stay awake nowadays with Alyssa around. My mother-in-law immediately put a finger to her lips, signaling to me that I shouldn't be saying such a thing in front of the baby, to which I dismiss as 'no such thing so don't worry'.
I should be choking on my words because precisely the night I made such a statement, Alyssa became a monster. However, it was my fault, not Alyssa's (so peeps, don't believe in that crap!) She had been sleeping soundly since 9pm so on seeing that, I thought she would take a while to wake up and decided to pump out my milk so as to encourage milk production. I was really elated that I managed to get a small Avent bottle full of milk because that means an increase in milk production. I have been trying to increase my milk supply because I barely managed to pump out enough milk for Alyssa the previous times (most only 2.5 oz of milk each pump) and I was worried she may not have enough milk when she goes to infant care. The increase in milk supply was almost 50%! I must have totally emptied my boobs of milk because there was little milk when she woke up slightly more than 1.5 hours later to feed. Then all hell broke loose. Because she wasn't satisfied with the amount of milk she got, she refused to go to bed and wanted to suck more. Even giving her milk from the bottle didn't help because she simply refused it and even spat out the milk and wet her shirt. I had to play with her and read to her and only after a while then she readily drank the milk from the bottle and went back to sleep. By then it was already 5am in the morning. My mother-in-law would have said 'I told you so' if she learnt of that.
Trust me, playing with a baby that doesn't really respond to you is a very tiring job. I was half dead when I woke up to bathe her. By the time I had my brunch, I was ready scramble back to bed but I had to accompany Desmond to West Mall for his lunch (by the way, he says the Cheesy Melts from KFC sucks). To compensate for the lousy lunch and satisfy his cheese cravings (as if he's pregnant) for that day, we had a cheese cake from Coffee Bean & Tea after that.
Cheese power must not be underestimated. I actually had the energy to wash and polish my little car after that. I was so proud of my little car. It looks new and nice again. I should have taken the 'before and after' pictures of my car. Special thanks to Desmond who continued to help with washing and polishing of the car even though I was nagging at him non-stop to do a better job, and also to TFG who actually just dropped by to collect my adidas bag for TWK but stayed on and helped a bit.
I was nearly dead after the car wash but we went to Desmond's grandma's (grandma = mother-in-law's mum) place for dinner. (By the way, Alyssa pooped again! Prayers had been answered!) Apparently, her signature dish is salted fish head curry. It's said that only their family prepares this dish. I must say it's really unique and delicious. But it's a little too rich for me so I couldn't have too much of it. Tua yi was also at grandma's place. Luckily she was too engrossed in playing mahjong and didn't bother us much.
I was really beat after the entire day's of activity and never had I been so glad to see my bed again. Thank God Alyssa went back to being an angel again last night.
I should be choking on my words because precisely the night I made such a statement, Alyssa became a monster. However, it was my fault, not Alyssa's (so peeps, don't believe in that crap!) She had been sleeping soundly since 9pm so on seeing that, I thought she would take a while to wake up and decided to pump out my milk so as to encourage milk production. I was really elated that I managed to get a small Avent bottle full of milk because that means an increase in milk production. I have been trying to increase my milk supply because I barely managed to pump out enough milk for Alyssa the previous times (most only 2.5 oz of milk each pump) and I was worried she may not have enough milk when she goes to infant care. The increase in milk supply was almost 50%! I must have totally emptied my boobs of milk because there was little milk when she woke up slightly more than 1.5 hours later to feed. Then all hell broke loose. Because she wasn't satisfied with the amount of milk she got, she refused to go to bed and wanted to suck more. Even giving her milk from the bottle didn't help because she simply refused it and even spat out the milk and wet her shirt. I had to play with her and read to her and only after a while then she readily drank the milk from the bottle and went back to sleep. By then it was already 5am in the morning. My mother-in-law would have said 'I told you so' if she learnt of that.
Trust me, playing with a baby that doesn't really respond to you is a very tiring job. I was half dead when I woke up to bathe her. By the time I had my brunch, I was ready scramble back to bed but I had to accompany Desmond to West Mall for his lunch (by the way, he says the Cheesy Melts from KFC sucks). To compensate for the lousy lunch and satisfy his cheese cravings (as if he's pregnant) for that day, we had a cheese cake from Coffee Bean & Tea after that.
Cheese power must not be underestimated. I actually had the energy to wash and polish my little car after that. I was so proud of my little car. It looks new and nice again. I should have taken the 'before and after' pictures of my car. Special thanks to Desmond who continued to help with washing and polishing of the car even though I was nagging at him non-stop to do a better job, and also to TFG who actually just dropped by to collect my adidas bag for TWK but stayed on and helped a bit.
I was nearly dead after the car wash but we went to Desmond's grandma's (grandma = mother-in-law's mum) place for dinner. (By the way, Alyssa pooped again! Prayers had been answered!) Apparently, her signature dish is salted fish head curry. It's said that only their family prepares this dish. I must say it's really unique and delicious. But it's a little too rich for me so I couldn't have too much of it. Tua yi was also at grandma's place. Luckily she was too engrossed in playing mahjong and didn't bother us much.
I was really beat after the entire day's of activity and never had I been so glad to see my bed again. Thank God Alyssa went back to being an angel again last night.
11.1.09
I Love Alyssa!!!
Life is always so interesting with Alyssa around.
On Thursday, we tried to see if she can start to sit up straight without her neck bending all over the place as if it's broken (please DON'T look at how messy her bed is. That is the best we can do. She simply uses too much cloth napkins and we have no other convenient place to put them).
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It appears that she's able to hold her head up for a few moments now. This is really great news for us because this means that we can handle her with less care (LOL!) Ok people, I'm just joking!!! This really just means that I will be less worried about putting her in a child seat when we go out. She tends to 'slouch' when we put her into a child seat and I'm quite worried she would knock into the huge belt clip or be suffocated or something. It wouldn't be so bad if she could hold her head up high.
To illustrate this point, see how she is in the child seat now.
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I took her out this afternoon to meet up with her godmother Jasmine for lunch. She could even sleep and smile in the seat now!!! Ok, she was always able to sleep in the child seat but this is the first time she appeared so cool and comfort in it. When she wasn't asleep, she was turning her head around to look at me when I was driving and smile at me when I looked at her. Isn't that wonderful?
Then Desmond and I continued to be amazed by how she wouldn't pass motion for almost a week and suddenly, bam! The crap arrives.
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That's a bloody hell lot of shit and like previous occasions, I nearly fainted when I saw this amount of shit but wthat's worse this time round was, it was smelling alot worse. I really want to tell her, "My dear girl, can you please just shit everyday? Mummy doesn't need surprises like this!" Hopefully she does her business soon (by soon I mean the next 2 days) so I won't have to deal with this amount of shit again. If photos can transmit smell, I'm sure you will sympathize with me.
After the lunch with Jasmine today, I realised what an angel my Alyssa is. Jasmine told me that her nephew took quite a while to be able to sleep soundly at night (a while = approximately 8 months) whereas Alyssa is already sleeping very soundly at night and she's only 2.5 months old. She can now sleep from 10pm to 6am without waking up and making a nuisance of herself. She also hardly throw tantrum and refuse milk if we are slow to feed her. In fact, she can be easily soothed to wait for her milk and she'll readily receive her milk even if it's moments later that we feed her. What a darling right?
And she continues to look so cute beside her toys.
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In a bid to keep her occupied while I take a shower (so she wouldn't start crying when she notices that there's no one around her), I have introduced to her the wacky-looking doggie that Haz bought for her (Thanks Haz!!!). Apparently she likes the dog and keeps looking at it. She even attempts to grab its blue nose occasionally. It makes me very happy to see this because again, this demonstrates how much she has grown over the couple of months. She wouldn't even have thought to give a damn to anything a month ago and now she is able to focus on things finally.
I can't wait for the day she speaks to me. I'll be over the moon.
On Thursday, we tried to see if she can start to sit up straight without her neck bending all over the place as if it's broken (please DON'T look at how messy her bed is. That is the best we can do. She simply uses too much cloth napkins and we have no other convenient place to put them).
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It appears that she's able to hold her head up for a few moments now. This is really great news for us because this means that we can handle her with less care (LOL!) Ok people, I'm just joking!!! This really just means that I will be less worried about putting her in a child seat when we go out. She tends to 'slouch' when we put her into a child seat and I'm quite worried she would knock into the huge belt clip or be suffocated or something. It wouldn't be so bad if she could hold her head up high.To illustrate this point, see how she is in the child seat now.
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I took her out this afternoon to meet up with her godmother Jasmine for lunch. She could even sleep and smile in the seat now!!! Ok, she was always able to sleep in the child seat but this is the first time she appeared so cool and comfort in it. When she wasn't asleep, she was turning her head around to look at me when I was driving and smile at me when I looked at her. Isn't that wonderful?Then Desmond and I continued to be amazed by how she wouldn't pass motion for almost a week and suddenly, bam! The crap arrives.
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That's a bloody hell lot of shit and like previous occasions, I nearly fainted when I saw this amount of shit but wthat's worse this time round was, it was smelling alot worse. I really want to tell her, "My dear girl, can you please just shit everyday? Mummy doesn't need surprises like this!" Hopefully she does her business soon (by soon I mean the next 2 days) so I won't have to deal with this amount of shit again. If photos can transmit smell, I'm sure you will sympathize with me.After the lunch with Jasmine today, I realised what an angel my Alyssa is. Jasmine told me that her nephew took quite a while to be able to sleep soundly at night (a while = approximately 8 months) whereas Alyssa is already sleeping very soundly at night and she's only 2.5 months old. She can now sleep from 10pm to 6am without waking up and making a nuisance of herself. She also hardly throw tantrum and refuse milk if we are slow to feed her. In fact, she can be easily soothed to wait for her milk and she'll readily receive her milk even if it's moments later that we feed her. What a darling right?
And she continues to look so cute beside her toys.
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In a bid to keep her occupied while I take a shower (so she wouldn't start crying when she notices that there's no one around her), I have introduced to her the wacky-looking doggie that Haz bought for her (Thanks Haz!!!). Apparently she likes the dog and keeps looking at it. She even attempts to grab its blue nose occasionally. It makes me very happy to see this because again, this demonstrates how much she has grown over the couple of months. She wouldn't even have thought to give a damn to anything a month ago and now she is able to focus on things finally.I can't wait for the day she speaks to me. I'll be over the moon.
8.1.09
Mahjong Queen in Action Again (So Soon!)
I thought today was going to another boring day. It was the usual routine like any other day and I was wondering what I could possibly update on my blog. Then, my other sister TFH aka Jaymee called, asked if I was going to be home and declared that she was coming over.
Surprise! TFG turned up as well. Ok, actually it wasn't such a surprise. Rather I kind of expected it. Since TFG is selling bah kwa at West Mall which is right beside the MRT station, it is only normal TFH would go over and drag her here as well.
Initially, it was the usual visit. I poured drinks for them, we chit-chat abit about everything under the sun then the golden word arose: MAHJONG.
TFG suggested we play mahjong because according to her, there's nothing to do at my place.
Of course TFH readily agreed to it because she had been itching to play mahjong for a couple of days. Mahjong Queen (aka me) certainly wouldn't decline a mahjong invitation. Problem was, there were only the three of us.
However, luckily for us, a solution presented itself: my brother-in-law. He was innocently playing DOTA in the living room while the three of us sat there, eyeing him to play mahjong with us. While we were desperate to play mahjong, we were very shy people who didn't know how to approach him. Therefore, we came up with a few ideas on how we could approach him:
Finally, we decided to just ask my brother-in-law.
This brother-in-law is such a sweetheart, always ready to help most of the time. We were quick to set up the table and start our game. For the second time, I was on a winning streak (maybe it's a sign my mahjong skills are improving!!!). However, as the stakes were small (one tai = 20 cents), I only managed to win 8 bucks today. It could have been more, if I weren't so careless and forgot to take a tile when I 'gang' the 'fa cai' ('gang'=getting 4 tiles of the same pattern/design, whatever you call that). That was to be a spectacular win as well, had I remember to take a tile. Sigh.
We only played one port today (couldn't afford too much or we will be accused of leading my brother-in-law astray, asking him to play mahjong and devoid him of time to study. Erm...not that I remember ever seeing him study anyway, but you get what I mean). But one port is better than nothing.
Oh Mahjong, I love this game.
Surprise! TFG turned up as well. Ok, actually it wasn't such a surprise. Rather I kind of expected it. Since TFG is selling bah kwa at West Mall which is right beside the MRT station, it is only normal TFH would go over and drag her here as well.
Initially, it was the usual visit. I poured drinks for them, we chit-chat abit about everything under the sun then the golden word arose: MAHJONG.
TFG suggested we play mahjong because according to her, there's nothing to do at my place.
Of course TFH readily agreed to it because she had been itching to play mahjong for a couple of days. Mahjong Queen (aka me) certainly wouldn't decline a mahjong invitation. Problem was, there were only the three of us.
However, luckily for us, a solution presented itself: my brother-in-law. He was innocently playing DOTA in the living room while the three of us sat there, eyeing him to play mahjong with us. While we were desperate to play mahjong, we were very shy people who didn't know how to approach him. Therefore, we came up with a few ideas on how we could approach him:
- TFH to sit beside him and do the mahjong action - hopefully he'll get the hint and play mahjong with us
- SMS him and ask him if he wants to play mahjong with us
- Get his email address secretly, message him through MSN and ask if he'll play mahjong with us
- Just ask him
- Ask my father-in-law to stop cooking dinner and play mahjong with us (not too hopeful)
Finally, we decided to just ask my brother-in-law.
This brother-in-law is such a sweetheart, always ready to help most of the time. We were quick to set up the table and start our game. For the second time, I was on a winning streak (maybe it's a sign my mahjong skills are improving!!!). However, as the stakes were small (one tai = 20 cents), I only managed to win 8 bucks today. It could have been more, if I weren't so careless and forgot to take a tile when I 'gang' the 'fa cai' ('gang'=getting 4 tiles of the same pattern/design, whatever you call that). That was to be a spectacular win as well, had I remember to take a tile. Sigh.
We only played one port today (couldn't afford too much or we will be accused of leading my brother-in-law astray, asking him to play mahjong and devoid him of time to study. Erm...not that I remember ever seeing him study anyway, but you get what I mean). But one port is better than nothing.
Oh Mahjong, I love this game.
6.1.09
Mahjong Queen
Saturday was a little slow for me. It was the usual, woke up, bathed Alyssa, had a shower, had breakfast and lazed around a bit. Then Desmond wanted to go to bank to try and open a CDA for Alyssa after he found all the necessary documents. At the suggestion of the friendly customer relations manager, we even got a mighty savers account that comes with an adorable passbook for her (they should make adult bank passbooks adorable too, to encourage savings). Ok, not that Alyssa will be able to put any money into bank at this age, but when she's of an appropriate age, we will start educating her on the importance of savings and we can use this bank account to encourage her to save. Saving is an important habit to cultivate when the child is young so she wouldn't become a shopaholic like me when she grows up. (Luckily I haven't shopped over the weekend! I'm so proud of myself!)
I thought the night will be more entertaining because there's almost a habit in the family now to gather for mahjong on Saturday nights. Just when we were about to declare war on each other, Alyssa had to wake up and spoil our plan - my mother-in-law thought that Alyssa will be up for a long, gave up the idea of mahjong and went to bed :( I had to gather my brother TWK, his girlfriend FFM and TFG to play wahjong on viwawa. It wasn't so bad, but it can never beat real mahjong.
It was finally real mahjong time on Sunday. we started about 3 plus in the afternoon. For once, I was on a winning streak. I think it was because I had my lucky stars with me. My parents, TWK, FFM and TFG actually came over to our place when we were playing mahjong to visit Alyssa. I was a little guilty though, for being too busy with mahjong and didn't speak to them much (had to concentrate on the game!!!) We actually played 3 ports of mahjong and the game only finally ended at 11 with only a short dinner break in between. EIGHT hours of mahjong, can you imagine? It's like working full time on mahjong for a day. We were so exhausted after that.
I absolutely love mahjong, not that no one can tell. Not because I love to gamble (seriously!) but I think mahjong is a good game of wits and observation (at the looks of it, I'm lacking in this area since I'm always losing). Lots of interesting rules too. I salute whoever invented mahjong. However, I think I need to check playing mahjong too much in case I lose too much money.
Nevertheless I'm looking forward to the next mahjong session. Lol.
I thought the night will be more entertaining because there's almost a habit in the family now to gather for mahjong on Saturday nights. Just when we were about to declare war on each other, Alyssa had to wake up and spoil our plan - my mother-in-law thought that Alyssa will be up for a long, gave up the idea of mahjong and went to bed :( I had to gather my brother TWK, his girlfriend FFM and TFG to play wahjong on viwawa. It wasn't so bad, but it can never beat real mahjong.
It was finally real mahjong time on Sunday. we started about 3 plus in the afternoon. For once, I was on a winning streak. I think it was because I had my lucky stars with me. My parents, TWK, FFM and TFG actually came over to our place when we were playing mahjong to visit Alyssa. I was a little guilty though, for being too busy with mahjong and didn't speak to them much (had to concentrate on the game!!!) We actually played 3 ports of mahjong and the game only finally ended at 11 with only a short dinner break in between. EIGHT hours of mahjong, can you imagine? It's like working full time on mahjong for a day. We were so exhausted after that.
I absolutely love mahjong, not that no one can tell. Not because I love to gamble (seriously!) but I think mahjong is a good game of wits and observation (at the looks of it, I'm lacking in this area since I'm always losing). Lots of interesting rules too. I salute whoever invented mahjong. However, I think I need to check playing mahjong too much in case I lose too much money.
Nevertheless I'm looking forward to the next mahjong session. Lol.
I want to eat chicken!!!
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I want to eat chicken!!!.jpg)
What do you mean the chicken is fake?!Over the couple of months, the motor skills of my little girl has definitely improved. She can hold on to things for some time with assistance (assistance meaning I put the object into her hands). Besides, she can also put whatever she's holding to her mouth without hitting her head, meaning that's not such a random move. I must say she learns very fast indeed. Her sense of sight has also improved so much that she is able to follow movements and look at things with curiosity now. Seeing the growth of her child really makes a mother very happy.
To top things up, Alyssa is really happy baby today.
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It's just wonderful to have her around :)
To top things up, Alyssa is really happy baby today.
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It's just wonderful to have her around :)
3.1.09
Shopaholic Anonymous
I think I have to check myself into SA - Shopaholic Anonymous. This is terrible. It's the third time this week that I have shopped and the week isn't even up yet. I must keep myself at home away from the malls so I wouldn't do anymore damage.
I went back to my parents' place today because ah ma (ah ma = grandmother) was going to cook her delicious signature pork chops and she asked me to go home for lunch. Since Desmond always wanted to open a CDA (Children Development Account, another incentive by the government in a bid to promote birth rate in Singapore. For up to 6000 bucks deposited in the account, the government will put money into the account, matching dollar for dollar in the account to help with the expenses needed for the child's education.) for Alyssa, I suggested that we have lunch at my parents' place then we will go to Jurong Point to do the necessary. We also had a few Fairprice and Robinsons' vouchers so we thought we could get some diapers for Alyssa.
The only problem was, we didn't open any CDA account for Alyssa and only shopped the entire afternoon.
Well, it wasn't entirely our fault. We didn't know that we have to produce some authorisation letter from MYCS in order to open the account. We only learn of that bit in the procedure when we got to the bank and they refused to let us open the account without the authorisation letter (like, wouldn't the government have some record and they would check before putting in any money in the account?) We have to make another trip to the bank again just to open the account. What was more infuriating was the lady at the bank, upon seeing Alyssa, even added, 'You just need to produce the necessary documents. The baby needn't be here.' I wanted to ask her if she was going to take care of Alyssa for us if we had left her at home.
Before we headed to the bank, we went to Harris bookstore. TFG told me there's some good sale at the bookstore so I decided to pop in to take a look at how good the sale was. True enough, the sale was rather attractive. Titles like Shopaholic and Baby (hey, that sounds like a book about me?!) and A Thousand Splendid Suns were at 50% discount. Who on earth can resist that offer, unless you don't read? I also saw a few interesting books such as Reality Check and this other book by Thomas L. Friedman who write The World is Flat. Well, if you haven't guessed, I bought the abovementioned books. =X
There was a revamp at Jurong Point and there is now an extension that houses many more shops, much better than those that existed before the revamp. I finally got the tube top that I wanted o get for ages (and along with it, another dress. Sigh) and TFG finally got the shorts she wanted. Hurray for the both of us and praise the developer of Jurong Point.
The real shopping began when we went to Fairprice extra and started picking up whatever we wanted off the shelves just because we had a couple of vouchers. Who would have thought diapers could cost more than 60 bucks? The fact is, at the end of the day, the bill was 100+ bucks and we only got one packet of diapers while the rest were all junk e.g. 2 cans of beer, a packet of ham, eel etc. Luckily we had those vouchers. -_-"
The good thing was we really spent the last Robinsons vouchers we had on Alyssa (I had evils intentions on the vouchers actually. Luckily I didn't manage to get my evil ways.) We finally managed to get some clothes for her for Chinese New Year (it's difficult to find clothes for her as she's not a big baby) and stuff e.g. face towels and baby wipes to prepare for sending her to the infant care when I have to return to work.
At the end of the day, there was hardly enough space in the car for 4 people with all these shopping bags when it was time to go home.
Sounds like a shopaholic at work? I really have to check myself into SA and not spend anymore for the rest of this month. (Remember! New Year resolution!!! Put thoughts and wishes into action!)
I went back to my parents' place today because ah ma (ah ma = grandmother) was going to cook her delicious signature pork chops and she asked me to go home for lunch. Since Desmond always wanted to open a CDA (Children Development Account, another incentive by the government in a bid to promote birth rate in Singapore. For up to 6000 bucks deposited in the account, the government will put money into the account, matching dollar for dollar in the account to help with the expenses needed for the child's education.) for Alyssa, I suggested that we have lunch at my parents' place then we will go to Jurong Point to do the necessary. We also had a few Fairprice and Robinsons' vouchers so we thought we could get some diapers for Alyssa.
The only problem was, we didn't open any CDA account for Alyssa and only shopped the entire afternoon.
Well, it wasn't entirely our fault. We didn't know that we have to produce some authorisation letter from MYCS in order to open the account. We only learn of that bit in the procedure when we got to the bank and they refused to let us open the account without the authorisation letter (like, wouldn't the government have some record and they would check before putting in any money in the account?) We have to make another trip to the bank again just to open the account. What was more infuriating was the lady at the bank, upon seeing Alyssa, even added, 'You just need to produce the necessary documents. The baby needn't be here.' I wanted to ask her if she was going to take care of Alyssa for us if we had left her at home.
Before we headed to the bank, we went to Harris bookstore. TFG told me there's some good sale at the bookstore so I decided to pop in to take a look at how good the sale was. True enough, the sale was rather attractive. Titles like Shopaholic and Baby (hey, that sounds like a book about me?!) and A Thousand Splendid Suns were at 50% discount. Who on earth can resist that offer, unless you don't read? I also saw a few interesting books such as Reality Check and this other book by Thomas L. Friedman who write The World is Flat. Well, if you haven't guessed, I bought the abovementioned books. =X
There was a revamp at Jurong Point and there is now an extension that houses many more shops, much better than those that existed before the revamp. I finally got the tube top that I wanted o get for ages (and along with it, another dress. Sigh) and TFG finally got the shorts she wanted. Hurray for the both of us and praise the developer of Jurong Point.
The real shopping began when we went to Fairprice extra and started picking up whatever we wanted off the shelves just because we had a couple of vouchers. Who would have thought diapers could cost more than 60 bucks? The fact is, at the end of the day, the bill was 100+ bucks and we only got one packet of diapers while the rest were all junk e.g. 2 cans of beer, a packet of ham, eel etc. Luckily we had those vouchers. -_-"
The good thing was we really spent the last Robinsons vouchers we had on Alyssa (I had evils intentions on the vouchers actually. Luckily I didn't manage to get my evil ways.) We finally managed to get some clothes for her for Chinese New Year (it's difficult to find clothes for her as she's not a big baby) and stuff e.g. face towels and baby wipes to prepare for sending her to the infant care when I have to return to work.
At the end of the day, there was hardly enough space in the car for 4 people with all these shopping bags when it was time to go home.
Sounds like a shopaholic at work? I really have to check myself into SA and not spend anymore for the rest of this month. (Remember! New Year resolution!!! Put thoughts and wishes into action!)
2.1.09
My New Year Resolution and Wishes
That's right, this is some New Year's special - 2 blogs in a day! LOL.
Last night, I was watching a new year's eve countdown celebration concert on TV that was held in Taiwan. When asked about their new year wishes, everyone said that they hope 2009 will be a good year, since 2008 had been a sad one. So, I asked Desmond, what makes these people think things will change and become totally different once the last second of 2008 passes?
Sad news continues to flood the news today. For example, a major fire at a nightclub in Bangkok killed and injured 200+ people. Will 2009 actually be a better year?
However, that does not mean we are doomed. It good to be hopeful and it's only when there is hope that things will improve. Of course, we can't just be hopeful. We need to take action as well. Therefore, the most important new year resolution I have is to put my thoughts and wishes into actions (I'm referring to only the good thoughts of course). Procrastination has cost me too much time and I can't afford to lose anymore precious time (e.g. I've been meaning to learn web design maybe more than half a year ago and the furthest I've gotten to is and I don't even remember that too well because I haven't practice that yet).
So what are the New Year Wishes?
How about you? What are your New Year resolution and wishes?
Last night, I was watching a new year's eve countdown celebration concert on TV that was held in Taiwan. When asked about their new year wishes, everyone said that they hope 2009 will be a good year, since 2008 had been a sad one. So, I asked Desmond, what makes these people think things will change and become totally different once the last second of 2008 passes?
Sad news continues to flood the news today. For example, a major fire at a nightclub in Bangkok killed and injured 200+ people. Will 2009 actually be a better year?
However, that does not mean we are doomed. It good to be hopeful and it's only when there is hope that things will improve. Of course, we can't just be hopeful. We need to take action as well. Therefore, the most important new year resolution I have is to put my thoughts and wishes into actions (I'm referring to only the good thoughts of course). Procrastination has cost me too much time and I can't afford to lose anymore precious time (e.g. I've been meaning to learn web design maybe more than half a year ago and the furthest I've gotten to is
So what are the New Year Wishes?
- I wish for my little adorable daughter to continue to be healthy, grow well, talk to me soon, be a really smart girl and look more like a girl (last time we went to Plaza Singapura, the whole world mistook her for a boy. Kids in the lift commented that HE is so cute).
- I wish my marriage will continue to be a happy one and Desmond will find a career suitable for him.
- I wish I'll build my career this year.
How about you? What are your New Year resolution and wishes?
1.1.09
Shopping Spree
Happy New Year Everyone!!!
My New Year's eve was a hectic one. TFG decided that she would have no time to shop once she start selling bak kwa (roasted sliced pork) so being the wonderful sister that I am, I readily agreed to accompany her to shop for clothes for the coming Chinese New Year.
Desmond decided not to go to work and the four of us (that's right, little Alyssa came along with us too!) went to Marina Square. I must say Marina Square is a much more baby-friendly place. There are 2 nursing rooms on every level, not to mention lifts so we don't have to struggle with the pram on the escalators. With no lack of nursing room, I need not wait to feed Alyssa when hunger strikes and this saved me alot of time (and more time = more shopping). I actually had the time to visit all the stores I needed to visit e.g. Zara, Mango, Espirit, M)phosis, try at least a few pieces of clothes in each of these stores and actually buy something. I have to admit I was shopping rather fanatically but I'm sure anyone in my shoes would behave the same way. Imagine if you haven't worn nice clothes for almost ONE YEAR (hey, 9 months is almost one year right), wouldn't you want to do so now that you finally have the chance to?!!!Furthermore, the clothes were on sale!!! I will not believe anyone would say 'no' to such an opportunity.
I was quite pleased with all the clothes I've bought and also with myself for having helped TFG get some clothes for herself as well. I hope those clothes fit her alright because she didn't come out of the changing rooms to show me how she looked in some of those clothes. I think she should really try to put on some weight so she would look less like a hanger for those clothes (TFG, I know you are going to scold me after you read this but an impolite person like me HAVE to say this! LOL).
Of course, the shopping spree wouldn't have been such a success without my dearest Desmond. He looked after Alyssa while we shopped as if we have never went shopping before and he didn't even complain at all. He's such a darling, isn't he? *Kisses*
Now, I need a/some belts. Any recommendations where I can get decent belts?!
My New Year's eve was a hectic one. TFG decided that she would have no time to shop once she start selling bak kwa (roasted sliced pork) so being the wonderful sister that I am, I readily agreed to accompany her to shop for clothes for the coming Chinese New Year.
Desmond decided not to go to work and the four of us (that's right, little Alyssa came along with us too!) went to Marina Square. I must say Marina Square is a much more baby-friendly place. There are 2 nursing rooms on every level, not to mention lifts so we don't have to struggle with the pram on the escalators. With no lack of nursing room, I need not wait to feed Alyssa when hunger strikes and this saved me alot of time (and more time = more shopping). I actually had the time to visit all the stores I needed to visit e.g. Zara, Mango, Espirit, M)phosis, try at least a few pieces of clothes in each of these stores and actually buy something. I have to admit I was shopping rather fanatically but I'm sure anyone in my shoes would behave the same way. Imagine if you haven't worn nice clothes for almost ONE YEAR (hey, 9 months is almost one year right), wouldn't you want to do so now that you finally have the chance to?!!!Furthermore, the clothes were on sale!!! I will not believe anyone would say 'no' to such an opportunity.
I was quite pleased with all the clothes I've bought and also with myself for having helped TFG get some clothes for herself as well. I hope those clothes fit her alright because she didn't come out of the changing rooms to show me how she looked in some of those clothes. I think she should really try to put on some weight so she would look less like a hanger for those clothes (TFG, I know you are going to scold me after you read this but an impolite person like me HAVE to say this! LOL).
Of course, the shopping spree wouldn't have been such a success without my dearest Desmond. He looked after Alyssa while we shopped as if we have never went shopping before and he didn't even complain at all. He's such a darling, isn't he? *Kisses*
Now, I need a/some belts. Any recommendations where I can get decent belts?!
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