I'm a little troubled today.
As you know from here, I'm planning on taking my parents to Japan to view cherry blossoms this spring. The dilemma is this:
So far, only myself and my parents are going. But VT did hint that he wants to go.
Ok so if he goes, my MIL will have to take care of both the Bs full-time (day & night) for 7 to 8 days. I think it's too much for her. Solution: we'll take Bryan along.
If we take a hyper 2 1/2 year old along, can he tolerate all the "naik bas, turun bas" involved in taking a tour? What happens when it's time to leave a place and he refuses, and starts screaming? What happens if he poops in his pants on the bus, on a long journey up Mount Fuji? What if he goes beserk in the plane, being his first time on it?
I tried asking for a private tour but the tour operator told me that it is expensive and not worth it.
Pening only.......
Cheeky Cheeky Me
Happy Happy Me
Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
Monday, 5 January 2009
Another Hectic Weekend
We had another hectic weekend.
Saturday
We celebrated my 2nd brother's second son's first birthday (lots of 1s and 2s there, yes?!) with a lunch hosted by my brother at Paya Serai coffeehouse at PJ Hilton. For the first time, I managed to see myself the train set which the hotel has been putting up year-after-year. It was simply breathtaking! I shall post photos of them up here once I get them from my brother. I was told that the train setting gets bigger and bigger each year as they get more sponsors. Anyway, back to the lunch. We were there from noon and didn't leave until past 4pm! Not like I was eating away but the birthday boy had fallen asleep before the cake was cut. So everyone was sitting around waiting for him to wake up. Of course, I didn't have the luxury of sitting down. Bryan made me make numerous (after 10 times, I'd stopped counting) to the train set and the Xmas tree by the lobby. As expected, Bryan knocked-off the moment we strapped him into his carseat and continued napping at home until 6pm.
Which was a good thing, because I had my best friend and her daughter (also my god-daughter) over for dinner. She ta-paued chilly crabs, steamed salted chicken (very very good!!) and sweet & sour pork. I stir-fried mix veg with beef strips, marinated with ginger extract & chinese wine, to complete the meal. The kids had such a great time exchanging belated Xmas presents, that both Anya and Bryan put on their new clothes immediately - and on top of what they were wearing!
Sunday
We hosted a small "fast food" luncheon for a few of our uni friends, whom we've not caught up for some time. Yes, VT and I have common friends because we studied in the same uni although we weren't dating then. We also set up our mini wading pool on our car porch for the younger ones to splash around after lunch. It was great catching up though I had to take leave twice to put Brandon down for his naps.
At night, just as we thought we could wind down, the doorbell rang and lo-and-behold, my confinement lady (with Brandon, the better one not the one whom I sacked) was at the door. She was in the neighbourhood so popped by to see Brandon. We chatted for a good hour or so before she left. It was close to 8pm by then so I quickly gave Bryan his bath and VT & I sat down for a dinner of claypot chicken rice with chicken soup.
I was totally washed out by the time I was in bed. It didn't help that Bryan refused to lie still and neither did he stop talking to himself. Two hours must had passed and that boy was still awake despite yawning a few times. I finally threatened to walk out of the room if he didn't lie down, keep still and close his eyes. Which he did, and promptly fell asleep less than a minute after. Shows you how tired he was but was reluctant to sleep.
Well, that was my weekend. What were you up to?
Saturday
We celebrated my 2nd brother's second son's first birthday (lots of 1s and 2s there, yes?!) with a lunch hosted by my brother at Paya Serai coffeehouse at PJ Hilton. For the first time, I managed to see myself the train set which the hotel has been putting up year-after-year. It was simply breathtaking! I shall post photos of them up here once I get them from my brother. I was told that the train setting gets bigger and bigger each year as they get more sponsors. Anyway, back to the lunch. We were there from noon and didn't leave until past 4pm! Not like I was eating away but the birthday boy had fallen asleep before the cake was cut. So everyone was sitting around waiting for him to wake up. Of course, I didn't have the luxury of sitting down. Bryan made me make numerous (after 10 times, I'd stopped counting) to the train set and the Xmas tree by the lobby. As expected, Bryan knocked-off the moment we strapped him into his carseat and continued napping at home until 6pm.
Which was a good thing, because I had my best friend and her daughter (also my god-daughter) over for dinner. She ta-paued chilly crabs, steamed salted chicken (very very good!!) and sweet & sour pork. I stir-fried mix veg with beef strips, marinated with ginger extract & chinese wine, to complete the meal. The kids had such a great time exchanging belated Xmas presents, that both Anya and Bryan put on their new clothes immediately - and on top of what they were wearing!
Sunday
We hosted a small "fast food" luncheon for a few of our uni friends, whom we've not caught up for some time. Yes, VT and I have common friends because we studied in the same uni although we weren't dating then. We also set up our mini wading pool on our car porch for the younger ones to splash around after lunch. It was great catching up though I had to take leave twice to put Brandon down for his naps.
At night, just as we thought we could wind down, the doorbell rang and lo-and-behold, my confinement lady (with Brandon, the better one not the one whom I sacked) was at the door. She was in the neighbourhood so popped by to see Brandon. We chatted for a good hour or so before she left. It was close to 8pm by then so I quickly gave Bryan his bath and VT & I sat down for a dinner of claypot chicken rice with chicken soup.
I was totally washed out by the time I was in bed. It didn't help that Bryan refused to lie still and neither did he stop talking to himself. Two hours must had passed and that boy was still awake despite yawning a few times. I finally threatened to walk out of the room if he didn't lie down, keep still and close his eyes. Which he did, and promptly fell asleep less than a minute after. Shows you how tired he was but was reluctant to sleep.
Well, that was my weekend. What were you up to?
Tuesday, 30 December 2008
A Long Weekend That Was
We just had a long weekend over Saturday to Monday (being the Islamic new year). So what were we up to?
Saturday, the 20th
Do you recognise these beautiful girls?
Monday, the 22nd
A few of us gathered at this mummy's house for a small makan-makan gathering. I met Michele for the first time. This wonderful mummy learnt balloon-sculpting from YouTube and made a dog for Bryan! Isn't she amazing? Then this mummy brought her giant swimming pool and all the kids had a whale of a time. I had to leave early as both the Bs were getting grumpy. I would have loved to stay and chit-chat with all the mummies. We cannot seemed to stop talking!!
For dinner, I made Seafood Tom Yum meehoon and had my PILs over. It was so easy, thanks to the ready-made paste. I think I shall make this more often. After putting Bryan to sleep, I had wanted to potter around the house a bit and spend some alone time with VT. But mana tau, I must had fallen asleep as when I woke up, it was 3:40am!
That was my weekend. How was yours?
Saturday, the 20th
Do you recognise these beautiful girls?
Yes - that's me with Baby C and Sherilyn - the cutiepies belonging to HealthFreakMommy. Alycia is like the mummy, very photo-shy! I'd finally met up with the pretty, young-looking mother of 3. Shireen is also my SIL's pal from schooling days as the both of them are from Ipoh. Very small world! We met up at the Jungle Gym located on the top-most floor of Bangsar Shopping Centre. The concept is liks KidzSport I've been told. Per entry cost is RM28 per child, which was quite hefty to my mind. The good thing was that Bryan had his nap on the way to BSC so his energy level was tanked up to play. Lunch was at the cafe just outside the gym - food is great although we had to be seated outside which was kinda warm.
I like the gym because security is rather tight. The guardian's thumbprint is taken when we "check" the child in, and only the same person can "check" the child out by scanning the thumb again. And then there is a TV screen just outside which has CCTV covering the gym so that parents can watch over them. For good measure, I took turns with my maid to watch over Bryan while my Mum watched over Brandon. Poor VT was working on Saturday so he couldn't join us. We arrived home past 5pm and I hurriedly whipped up a quick meal of steamed fish and taufu with minced chicken for our dinner. Thank goodness VT was home by 6pm to take over Brandon.
Sunday, the 21st
Sundays are our usual mall-visiting days. Right after his bath, Bryan will proclaim "Sup(er)market" very loudly. We arrived at 1U and to our dismay, could not find a parking spot. So after searching for 20mins and paying RM1 to exit, we headed towards Hartamas Shopping Centre inside. In the process of car park hunting, Bryan fell asleep and I had to feed Brandon. There was a new TGIF which opened there so we decided to check it out. Again to our disappointment, this outlet doesn't have a "Kids Eat for Free" promo. When I asked the manager, he said that it was different for every outlet but I was never theless shocked because I thought it was one of their selling point. Then the Chicken Fingers that VT had was so small that we enquired whether they wrongly delivered the kiddies portion instead (which they say the did not)! VT and I have decided to boycott this TGIF outlet from there on.
Monday, the 22nd
A few of us gathered at this mummy's house for a small makan-makan gathering. I met Michele for the first time. This wonderful mummy learnt balloon-sculpting from YouTube and made a dog for Bryan! Isn't she amazing? Then this mummy brought her giant swimming pool and all the kids had a whale of a time. I had to leave early as both the Bs were getting grumpy. I would have loved to stay and chit-chat with all the mummies. We cannot seemed to stop talking!!
For dinner, I made Seafood Tom Yum meehoon and had my PILs over. It was so easy, thanks to the ready-made paste. I think I shall make this more often. After putting Bryan to sleep, I had wanted to potter around the house a bit and spend some alone time with VT. But mana tau, I must had fallen asleep as when I woke up, it was 3:40am!
That was my weekend. How was yours?
Tuesday, 23 December 2008
Japan, Anyone?
My mum has always longed to visit Japan for the longest time. It is funny because up to 5 years ago, she didn't go within 5-feet of sashimi but after some persuasion, she is a convert now. Anyway, I'd promised to take her see the cherry blossom next year. At the same time, I'd invited my Dad - thought it would be nice as a 40th wedding anniversary present. And then VT said that he hasn't been before so I'd invited him also. With the 4 of us going, what I am to do with my 2 Bs? Surely we will be gone for at least one week - I don't think it is fair for me to dump both my kids with my MIL for such a long period. We'll most likely end up taking Bryan for two reasons:
(1) He is old enough to enjoy it, not necessarily remember it
(2) He can eat whatever we eat so I don't need to worry about his meals, as long as they are cooked
So with those decisions in hand, now I need to look for a reliable tour company. I didn't think going on a Free-and-Easy tour would be a good idea although it would be cheaper. Afterall, I have two elderly parents to look after plus a hyper-active toddler. So, if you have any recommendations, I would be grateful for some advice.
P/S: If you're wondering whether I had a huge bonus pay-out, or if I striked lottery, it's negative to both. I think I'd just realised that there are somethings in life that I needed to do sooner rather than later, before it's too late and I end up regreting.
(1) He is old enough to enjoy it, not necessarily remember it
(2) He can eat whatever we eat so I don't need to worry about his meals, as long as they are cooked
So with those decisions in hand, now I need to look for a reliable tour company. I didn't think going on a Free-and-Easy tour would be a good idea although it would be cheaper. Afterall, I have two elderly parents to look after plus a hyper-active toddler. So, if you have any recommendations, I would be grateful for some advice.
P/S: If you're wondering whether I had a huge bonus pay-out, or if I striked lottery, it's negative to both. I think I'd just realised that there are somethings in life that I needed to do sooner rather than later, before it's too late and I end up regreting.
Sunday, 21 December 2008
Musical Tong Yuen Weekend
There was nothing musical about the tong yuen balls that my mum rolled up on Saturday night. I was, though, happily singing as I was home for dinner with my brothers and the whole jing-gang last night to celebrate this auspicious ocassion. This me, this is even more memorable than Chinese New Year because I get to eat with everyone in my family. My mum cooked her shark's fin soup, prawns and claypot seafood pot while my dad whipped up his ever-superb "8-treasures" duck. Sorry, no photos as I had forgotten to bring my camera. There were 8 adults, 3 toddlers and 2 babies. Needless to say, it was a NOISY affair. I was stuffed to the brim with all the yummy food and it wasn't surprising that I dozed off soon after dinner.
The musical part of this weekend was treating my mum and MIL to watch Mamma Mia - the musical, which is currently showing at Istana Budaya. I had purchased the tickets on the first day they were sold just to ensure that we got good seats. And good seats we got. The distance from the stage was not too near so that we were only staring at the actors feet, but near enough to watch their facial expressions clearly.
Backtracking, I picked both the mums up for lunch. Initially, I'd planned to take them to San Francisco Steakhouse but I think it has gone bankrupt! To think that I pass by that row of shophouses every day without noticing that the shop is no longer there. We then decided to proceed to the Eurodeli shop at Damansara Kim to savour their pork chops. Both the mums were very anxious to get to the theather early so right after lunch, we set off to KL. We arrived very early (read: 1:40pm and the show starts at 3:00pm) so we browsed around at the merchanises. I bought the programme, which is a must for me each time I watch a musical, and a latte mug for VT the caffeine-addict.
The musical is one of the most entertaining ever, I must say. The scenes are almost identical to the ones from the movie, so no surprises there. What was a really nice touch was the end where all the actors continued to sing and dance, drawing huge crowds to their feet - all clapping and dancing along. Thankfully (?) my mums weren't one of them. By the time the show ended, it was close to 6pm and we headed home - back to reality but with a spring in our step.
The musical part of this weekend was treating my mum and MIL to watch Mamma Mia - the musical, which is currently showing at Istana Budaya. I had purchased the tickets on the first day they were sold just to ensure that we got good seats. And good seats we got. The distance from the stage was not too near so that we were only staring at the actors feet, but near enough to watch their facial expressions clearly.
Backtracking, I picked both the mums up for lunch. Initially, I'd planned to take them to San Francisco Steakhouse but I think it has gone bankrupt! To think that I pass by that row of shophouses every day without noticing that the shop is no longer there. We then decided to proceed to the Eurodeli shop at Damansara Kim to savour their pork chops. Both the mums were very anxious to get to the theather early so right after lunch, we set off to KL. We arrived very early (read: 1:40pm and the show starts at 3:00pm) so we browsed around at the merchanises. I bought the programme, which is a must for me each time I watch a musical, and a latte mug for VT the caffeine-addict.
The musical is one of the most entertaining ever, I must say. The scenes are almost identical to the ones from the movie, so no surprises there. What was a really nice touch was the end where all the actors continued to sing and dance, drawing huge crowds to their feet - all clapping and dancing along. Thankfully (?) my mums weren't one of them. By the time the show ended, it was close to 6pm and we headed home - back to reality but with a spring in our step.
Saturday, 13 December 2008
Malacca & PD in 14 hours
Warning: Long post ahead
My PILs wanted to take Bryan for a short get-away in PD during the Hari Raya Haji long weekend. I couldn't take leave as my boss is away and it is also too troublesome to pack all of Brandon's stuff, like bottle steriliser and his bath tub. So VT and I decided to make a day trip instead. As it is, I packed 3 bags just for Bryan - one for clothes, one for diapers (swimming ones too), and the final one for snacks & milk (and milk bottles). I can't imagine what it would be like if I had to pack for Brandon too.
We chose a bad day for travel - it rained the entire day. Our initial plan was to leave by 8am so that we can get to the Malacca Zoo before 10am. Oh yes, we did get there before 10am, only to be greeted by more rain. We decided to hang out in Mahkota Parade for a while, hoping that rain would subside. But alas, it was still raining rather heavily by lunchtime. We then decided to find a place for lunch in Melaka Raya. All the restaurants were packed - not surprisingly since it was a public holiday (yes, for the Singaporeans as well whose cars out-numbered the KL-ites). We waited at Restaurant #1 for 45 minutes for our food, and when it didn't looked like it was coming (plus the waitresses were rude), we got up and left after paying for our chinese teas. Restaurant #2 was the same but by then, we just ordered whatever was available immediately as Bryan was hungry and figgeting. Food was sub-standard, and price was high standard.
After lunch, Bryan followed by MIL in their car, which ended up to be a good thing. We had to stop at two different petrol stations. Once because Brandon was fussing and we only then realised he was probably uncomfortable in his PJs (long-john style) when it was already 3pm!! So we changed him into a T and he was much happier. Silly parents, eh? Shortly after, I could hear him grunting away in the backseat hence it was time for another stop to change his soiled diaper. By the time we hit the highway towards PD it was 3:50pm and thanks to an accident, we arrived at Avillion at 5:15pm. Bryan was already eagerly waiting for VT to take him to the pool.
VT and I had a quick dinner at the resort and after packing Bryan off to bed, we started our journey home at 9:30pm. True to our "good" luck that day, we were stuck at the Senawang-Nilao stretch for more than an hour. When we arrived home, I almost cried because I was so tired and sleepy yet I stayed awake to keep VT awake while driving too. VT crashed out that night, while I took over the night shift. Luck turned after the stroke of 12 as Brandon gave his mummy a good night rest by not waking up till 9 the following morning.
It was an enjoyable trip but I'll think twice about long day trips again next time. Getting too old!
My PILs wanted to take Bryan for a short get-away in PD during the Hari Raya Haji long weekend. I couldn't take leave as my boss is away and it is also too troublesome to pack all of Brandon's stuff, like bottle steriliser and his bath tub. So VT and I decided to make a day trip instead. As it is, I packed 3 bags just for Bryan - one for clothes, one for diapers (swimming ones too), and the final one for snacks & milk (and milk bottles). I can't imagine what it would be like if I had to pack for Brandon too.
We chose a bad day for travel - it rained the entire day. Our initial plan was to leave by 8am so that we can get to the Malacca Zoo before 10am. Oh yes, we did get there before 10am, only to be greeted by more rain. We decided to hang out in Mahkota Parade for a while, hoping that rain would subside. But alas, it was still raining rather heavily by lunchtime. We then decided to find a place for lunch in Melaka Raya. All the restaurants were packed - not surprisingly since it was a public holiday (yes, for the Singaporeans as well whose cars out-numbered the KL-ites). We waited at Restaurant #1 for 45 minutes for our food, and when it didn't looked like it was coming (plus the waitresses were rude), we got up and left after paying for our chinese teas. Restaurant #2 was the same but by then, we just ordered whatever was available immediately as Bryan was hungry and figgeting. Food was sub-standard, and price was high standard.
After lunch, Bryan followed by MIL in their car, which ended up to be a good thing. We had to stop at two different petrol stations. Once because Brandon was fussing and we only then realised he was probably uncomfortable in his PJs (long-john style) when it was already 3pm!! So we changed him into a T and he was much happier. Silly parents, eh? Shortly after, I could hear him grunting away in the backseat hence it was time for another stop to change his soiled diaper. By the time we hit the highway towards PD it was 3:50pm and thanks to an accident, we arrived at Avillion at 5:15pm. Bryan was already eagerly waiting for VT to take him to the pool.
VT and I had a quick dinner at the resort and after packing Bryan off to bed, we started our journey home at 9:30pm. True to our "good" luck that day, we were stuck at the Senawang-Nilao stretch for more than an hour. When we arrived home, I almost cried because I was so tired and sleepy yet I stayed awake to keep VT awake while driving too. VT crashed out that night, while I took over the night shift. Luck turned after the stroke of 12 as Brandon gave his mummy a good night rest by not waking up till 9 the following morning.
It was an enjoyable trip but I'll think twice about long day trips again next time. Getting too old!
Tuesday, 9 December 2008
The EL and the VEE
Due to popular request, I had to surf the net for a good photo of the bag. So here it is.
The one which I got for my mum is in plum and not red. I personally liked the red one better but I had already bought her a bright red bag from Coach 2 years ago.
Here's a shot taken (with the bag!) when we went out for her birthday lunch at our family's favourite chinese restaurant - Overseas.
The one which I got for my mum is in plum and not red. I personally liked the red one better but I had already bought her a bright red bag from Coach 2 years ago.
Here's a shot taken (with the bag!) when we went out for her birthday lunch at our family's favourite chinese restaurant - Overseas.
Sunday, 30 November 2008
Extravangance
I know that this is the wrong time to be extravagant. Afterall, my boss just told me that there will be no increment nor promotion (I had been hoping for one) next year in light of the current financial situation. As you know, I work in the financial line so I suppose I should be lucky enough to have a job.
Anyway, back to my being extravagant. What did I spend on? Wellllllllll.................last Friday over lunchtime, I took a stroll to the Louis Vuitton shop (the huge one in Starhill), browsed for 10 minutes and bought a bag!
WOW, you might say. Before you congratulate me on owning my first LV bag, I have to make this qualifying statement: The bag was for my Mum.
She celebrates her birthday tomorrow and this year being her 65th birthday, I had wanted to get her something I know that she would never get for herself. All this time, she has been sacrificing for the family and saving up for us - yes, even now so that my brothers and I can lead an easy life. So I definitely think she deserves it. I don't mind not owning one and buying for my Mum. Not only do I think it is money well-spent, but I even battled through crazy Friday evening, rainy traffic to drop off the present so that she got a surprise when she returned from Penang the following day.
What I've done is so immaterial, compared to all that she has done for me. Funnily, all the pieces finally fell into place after I became a mother myself and understand what a mother goes through. God made us to be amazing creatures!!
Anyway, back to my being extravagant. What did I spend on? Wellllllllll.................last Friday over lunchtime, I took a stroll to the Louis Vuitton shop (the huge one in Starhill), browsed for 10 minutes and bought a bag!
WOW, you might say. Before you congratulate me on owning my first LV bag, I have to make this qualifying statement: The bag was for my Mum.
She celebrates her birthday tomorrow and this year being her 65th birthday, I had wanted to get her something I know that she would never get for herself. All this time, she has been sacrificing for the family and saving up for us - yes, even now so that my brothers and I can lead an easy life. So I definitely think she deserves it. I don't mind not owning one and buying for my Mum. Not only do I think it is money well-spent, but I even battled through crazy Friday evening, rainy traffic to drop off the present so that she got a surprise when she returned from Penang the following day.
What I've done is so immaterial, compared to all that she has done for me. Funnily, all the pieces finally fell into place after I became a mother myself and understand what a mother goes through. God made us to be amazing creatures!!
Wednesday, 26 November 2008
Austerity Drive & Toilet Training
What is the connection between an austerity drive and toilet training? You're right! Disposable diapers cost a bomb!!
I was happilly putting groceries and other necessities, such as diapers (3 packs of Mamy Poko), milk formula (a 1.8kg tin of EyeQ Gain), in Tesco. Then Wham! I was slapped with a RM420 bill at the checkout counter. I went through the bill again to ensure that nothing was mis-priced or calculated twice after I'd reluctantly handed over my plastic card. No such luck. All was in order.
Which brings me to potty-training. Bryan is still not yet potty-trained. Nope, not even for big business. Call it laziness, call it his own non-readiness, call it anything and the fact remains that the diapers are burning a hole in my pocket. And more so now that my boss has confirmed that there will be no increments/bonus/promotion in 2009. Shites! Some books say that a child is ready to be potty-trained when he can go by for a few hours and the diaper is dry. Not Bryan. This little fella drinks milk like a fish so his diaper requires a change every 1-2 hours. Admittedly, I have not been putting in much effort to potty-training this toddler. Looks like now I have a real motivation, besides from the fact that he will outgrow the XXL size soon, at the rate he is drinking milk!
If anyone has any good tips to share on potty-training, or better still, if anyone is willing to stay in my house (all meals provided) for the next 3 months to potty-train Bryan, please, do give me a call immediately!
I was happilly putting groceries and other necessities, such as diapers (3 packs of Mamy Poko), milk formula (a 1.8kg tin of EyeQ Gain), in Tesco. Then Wham! I was slapped with a RM420 bill at the checkout counter. I went through the bill again to ensure that nothing was mis-priced or calculated twice after I'd reluctantly handed over my plastic card. No such luck. All was in order.
Which brings me to potty-training. Bryan is still not yet potty-trained. Nope, not even for big business. Call it laziness, call it his own non-readiness, call it anything and the fact remains that the diapers are burning a hole in my pocket. And more so now that my boss has confirmed that there will be no increments/bonus/promotion in 2009. Shites! Some books say that a child is ready to be potty-trained when he can go by for a few hours and the diaper is dry. Not Bryan. This little fella drinks milk like a fish so his diaper requires a change every 1-2 hours. Admittedly, I have not been putting in much effort to potty-training this toddler. Looks like now I have a real motivation, besides from the fact that he will outgrow the XXL size soon, at the rate he is drinking milk!
If anyone has any good tips to share on potty-training, or better still, if anyone is willing to stay in my house (all meals provided) for the next 3 months to potty-train Bryan, please, do give me a call immediately!
Sunday, 2 November 2008
Almost Had It!
Thank goodness for a satisfying dinner comprising of teochew-style clear porridge with some of my favourite condiments - picked lettuce, salted duck egg, fried peanuts and anchovies. It gave me the much required break and a chance to pull myself together.
The boys drove me up the wall today!!
Bryan wouldn't nap beyond the 20mins catnap in the car on the way home from Sri Hartamas after lunch, while Brandon was fretful the entire day - screaming on top of his lungs relentlessly. Due to the lack of sleep, Bryan was tearful and edgy the rest of the afternoon/evening, bursting into tears whenever he was frustrated or if his wishes weren't met.
By early evening, this mummy had enough. Packed Brandon into bed at 6pm and Bryan at 7:30pm. Good thing tomorrow I will have some peace and quiet at work tomorrow, once again testifying that I can never be a stay-at-home mother.
The boys drove me up the wall today!!
Bryan wouldn't nap beyond the 20mins catnap in the car on the way home from Sri Hartamas after lunch, while Brandon was fretful the entire day - screaming on top of his lungs relentlessly. Due to the lack of sleep, Bryan was tearful and edgy the rest of the afternoon/evening, bursting into tears whenever he was frustrated or if his wishes weren't met.
By early evening, this mummy had enough. Packed Brandon into bed at 6pm and Bryan at 7:30pm. Good thing tomorrow I will have some peace and quiet at work tomorrow, once again testifying that I can never be a stay-at-home mother.
Friday, 10 October 2008
Our Raya Weekend
A quick synopsis of what we did over the long weekend.
Wednesday (1st day of Raya)
Made a quick visit to Sasha and little Justin in the morning (bright and early – was there just before 9am!); Met up with my god-daughter’s family and another colleague’s family at Marche, The Curve for lunch
Thursday
Hung out at my parents’ place for a while, lazy day
Friday
I went to work while VT took care of the kids, but halfway thru parked Bryan with my MIL.
Saturday
Bloggers gathering at Jazz’s place over lunch where I was late with the curry chicken - finally met Chin Nee for the 1st time;
For dinner, Lok Lok at my parents (yes, we literally had a lok lok van parked in my parents’ porch – great fun, too bad forget to take a photo!) to skaligus celebrate the October and November babies birthdays
Sunday
Hosted a small lunch for a friend who was visiting from Melbourne. Caught up with friends whom we had not seen in more than 5 years!
Most, if not all, of our gatherings happen over lunchtime since Brandon is usually asleep before 7pm these days. So for dinners, I’ll usually whip up something simple that everyone enjoys. I find it more relaxing to eat at home instead of having to pack the whole house when we go out.
By the way, you'll soon notice that my posts will have more photos cos I brought myself a simple point-and-shoot camera :)
Wednesday (1st day of Raya)
Made a quick visit to Sasha and little Justin in the morning (bright and early – was there just before 9am!); Met up with my god-daughter’s family and another colleague’s family at Marche, The Curve for lunch
Thursday
Hung out at my parents’ place for a while, lazy day
Friday
I went to work while VT took care of the kids, but halfway thru parked Bryan with my MIL.
Saturday
Bloggers gathering at Jazz’s place over lunch where I was late with the curry chicken - finally met Chin Nee for the 1st time;
For dinner, Lok Lok at my parents (yes, we literally had a lok lok van parked in my parents’ porch – great fun, too bad forget to take a photo!) to skaligus celebrate the October and November babies birthdays
Sunday
Hosted a small lunch for a friend who was visiting from Melbourne. Caught up with friends whom we had not seen in more than 5 years!
Most, if not all, of our gatherings happen over lunchtime since Brandon is usually asleep before 7pm these days. So for dinners, I’ll usually whip up something simple that everyone enjoys. I find it more relaxing to eat at home instead of having to pack the whole house when we go out.
By the way, you'll soon notice that my posts will have more photos cos I brought myself a simple point-and-shoot camera :)
Saturday, 30 August 2008
For You, Aunty Pat
I'd just returned from an afternoon lunch affair at 1Utama to celebrate my nephew, Jonathan turning 4 years old today. Lunch was at Italiannies. I have to say that I was pretty disappointed with the food, after having it after many many moons. The typically-tasteful pasta and pizza tasted rather commercial and mass-produced. I wonder if it has something to do with the Set Lunch promotion? The dessert - pannacota - was heavenly though.
At the birthday lunch was my 2nd aunt, my father's second sister. Aunty Pat is the humourous and easy-going one in the family. She's always good for a chat and up to date of the latest happenings. Aunty Pat can be rather blur too, like in this instance when she asked, "So, have you seen any movies recently?". I couldn't help but laugh. I responded that I barely even had the time to go to the loo, much less the cinema! Never theless, I'd appreciate her question as it would had been fun discussing movies with her.
Sorry, Aunty Pat - it will be a few more years before I can talk movies with you again. Unless, of course, you could babysit for me!
At the birthday lunch was my 2nd aunt, my father's second sister. Aunty Pat is the humourous and easy-going one in the family. She's always good for a chat and up to date of the latest happenings. Aunty Pat can be rather blur too, like in this instance when she asked, "So, have you seen any movies recently?". I couldn't help but laugh. I responded that I barely even had the time to go to the loo, much less the cinema! Never theless, I'd appreciate her question as it would had been fun discussing movies with her.
Sorry, Aunty Pat - it will be a few more years before I can talk movies with you again. Unless, of course, you could babysit for me!
Sunday, 24 August 2008
A Sleep In
When was the last time I had a sleep in till 8:30am?
Last night!
Bryan slept over with my PILs last night, while VT took the night shift with Brandon last night. So that's left the king sized bed all to myself. *Bliss*
I had wanted to sleep in later...afterall, how often does this kind of opportunity come by? But by 8 this morning, my boo-bies started to scream for attention. VT is still asleep in Brandon's room while I'm putting up my first ever post done on a Sunday morning.
When was the last time you had a sleep-in?
Happy Sunday, all!
Last night!
Bryan slept over with my PILs last night, while VT took the night shift with Brandon last night. So that's left the king sized bed all to myself. *Bliss*
I had wanted to sleep in later...afterall, how often does this kind of opportunity come by? But by 8 this morning, my boo-bies started to scream for attention. VT is still asleep in Brandon's room while I'm putting up my first ever post done on a Sunday morning.
When was the last time you had a sleep-in?
Happy Sunday, all!
Wednesday, 7 May 2008
M.I.A Again...
Yes, I hate it myself too when I'd realised that the last posting was dated 21 April. I'm still very much alive and well as you would know if your blog was not on blogspot since I can visit your sites from work. I am on half day leave today as my ob-gyn appointment was in the afternoon so I decided to take the opportunity to go grocery shopping at the same time. I was supposed to update my blog about our recent vacation too but VT hasn't downloaded the photos. What is a vacation write-up without photos, right?
Back to my visit to the ob-gyn....everything is well. I'm in my 28th week now; weighting 68.5kgs (yipes, to think that I have not been eating durian) and baby weighting 1-1.2kg. Baby B has still not turned, which I hope he will in the next couple of weeks. Baby B is very active especially when we were flying in the plane. Kicked non-stop for 3 hours. I'm still chasing after Bryan and carrying him at times though my back aches a lot more often now, especially after I give him his bath. Anyhow, no complains about this pregnancy either - it has been going very well :)
Ok promise I'll be back soon to tell you where VT & I went last weekend - photos included!
Back to my visit to the ob-gyn....everything is well. I'm in my 28th week now; weighting 68.5kgs (yipes, to think that I have not been eating durian) and baby weighting 1-1.2kg. Baby B has still not turned, which I hope he will in the next couple of weeks. Baby B is very active especially when we were flying in the plane. Kicked non-stop for 3 hours. I'm still chasing after Bryan and carrying him at times though my back aches a lot more often now, especially after I give him his bath. Anyhow, no complains about this pregnancy either - it has been going very well :)
Ok promise I'll be back soon to tell you where VT & I went last weekend - photos included!
Monday, 21 April 2008
More About Myself & Bryan
I have been terrible at updating my blog. I'd used to be able to spend at least an hour on both Saturdays and Sundays to update it, and also to visit others, when VT puts Bryan down for this morning. Now that the nap is gone, this opportunity seemed to have vinished as well.
Take last weekend for instance.
Saturday -
6:30am Bryan wakes me up
8:00am Breakfast
10:00am Bath
10:30am Take parents to 1-Utama
2:00pm Rush home to collect McDonalds delivery (50 sets of Happy Meals!)
3:00pm Send the Happy Meals to the pediatric ward of GH
4:30pm Back home; start preparing for dinner
6:00pm Dinner
7:00pm Bath
8:30pm Mlik & Sleep
I was so tired that I fell asleep when Bryan fell asleep at 9-ish.
Sunday was pretty much the same except that we had a birthday party brunch. I told VT to wake me up if I ter-sleep again, but before I knew it, it was the morning again. Apparently VT tried rousing me but I was pseudo-dead!
This morning was the last straw that broke the camel's back. I woke up with a throbbing headache and a body which felt that it was run over by a train (well, Bryan can be likened to a train sometimes - in terms of weight and speed!). I decided to take the day off and after sending Bryan to my MIL's, I came home and snoozed from 9 to 1. Now after I shower and catching up on some blogs, I need to:
(1) Buy Cherios from Hartamas shopping centre
(2) Go hunt for durians (got yearning lah!)
(3) Do my income tax return
(4) Spuce up the house a bit
(5) Pay a few bills
Lots of things to do, too little time - an epitome of life for all mothers!
Before I sign off, here are a few photos of the little boy that keeps me on my toes.
Bryan enjoyed his Haagen Daz chocolate brownie
Bryan's latest trick - jumping off the side of the couch at the count of 1-2-3
A very happy boy after completing a successful jump
Tuesday, 8 April 2008
Since We Last Spoke.....(Myself)
If I could just sum up the happenings on my side without getting into the boring details:
(1) Finally fully recovered from the cough and cold just 3 days ago
(2) Developed back muscle sprain from the trip to Singapore (suspect it was the hotel's too-soft mattress)
(3) Ballooning up like a whale - I'd hit 67kgs!!
(4) Working like a dog on the project that has been taking me to Singapore. It's a "do it right-or-die" kind of project. Wow, such motivation!
Despite all the not-too-great news above, the three of us managed to spend the weekend away @ The Westin KL. I had a free room voucher that will expire in April hence decided to go at the spur of the moment. It was good to get away from the usual schedule and indulged in some luxury. More about it once I get VT to download the photos that we took.
Speaking of indulgence, VT & I have finally firmed up our little holiday happening in 3 weeks time. Won't give you the details as yet.....till we return from it! Ha Ha
(1) Finally fully recovered from the cough and cold just 3 days ago
(2) Developed back muscle sprain from the trip to Singapore (suspect it was the hotel's too-soft mattress)
(3) Ballooning up like a whale - I'd hit 67kgs!!
(4) Working like a dog on the project that has been taking me to Singapore. It's a "do it right-or-die" kind of project. Wow, such motivation!
Despite all the not-too-great news above, the three of us managed to spend the weekend away @ The Westin KL. I had a free room voucher that will expire in April hence decided to go at the spur of the moment. It was good to get away from the usual schedule and indulged in some luxury. More about it once I get VT to download the photos that we took.
Speaking of indulgence, VT & I have finally firmed up our little holiday happening in 3 weeks time. Won't give you the details as yet.....till we return from it! Ha Ha
Monday, 3 March 2008
Running on Pure Adrenaline
Wow, I'd just realised that it has been two weeks since I last updated my blog. This is possibly the first time when I managed to sit down and reflect on the not-too-long-ago past.
To start off with, VT was in the Lion City for one week for a course, which extended past a weekend as well. I packed our bags and set up camp at my parents in the interest of safety and also company. My cousin who was visiting came over for a chat as well so the weekend went by pretty quickly although Bryan was very clingy and didn't want my parents to carry.
Then there was the usual work including a couple of "surprise" assignments which I had to get done in a jiffy. But work's work, so let's not talk about it here.
The contractors were called to our home to fix a leaky roof and to re-do the water-proofing in the toilets, both of which were causing watermarks to appear on our living room walls. That took up Saturday afternoon, and even then they will be back this weekend to paint the walls.
Last night, we attended our first wedding dinner with Bryan (together with my in-laws). It was held at Westin KL. I can't tell you whether it was a nice affair or not because I was hanging out with Bryan at the foyer 90% of the time. He was over-whelmed by the number of people and just didn't want to settle. Bryan was much happier roaming about the circular-shaped foyer and I managed to find a pen and paper to keep him occupied for a while. Then he wanted to touch the ice scupltures and pick up the rose petals that were strewn on the floor. No more weddings with Bryan until he is 7 years old, VT and I agreed!
In the middle of the night last night, I felt Bryan's body getting warm. I monitored for a while and the temperature kept rising despite being in an air-conditioned room. At 4am, I woke VT up to get the Paracetomal and we gave him a dose. His body was burning! Poor Bryan was tossing and turning the whole night and unable to sleep. An hour later, I sponged him down with tepid water and again, waited. This time, I could feel the temperature coming off slightly but made up our minds that if he wasn't asleep by 6am we will take him to the A&E. Bryan then fell into a slumber just before 6am, and so did I.
When he woke up at around 7:30am, his body still felt warm though he was able to take his breakfast and was his usual active self. VT & I still brought him to Dr Kwan for a once-over just to be safe. Dr Kwan couldn't find anything wrong so we're keeping our fingers (and toes!) crossed that it isn't dengue or anything more serious than a simple viral infection. My last call to check with my MIL was that Bryan's temperature was down to 37 degrees Celcius.
I decided to take a day off work to get some sleep, having not slept much last night. Our #2 was already protesting by kicking a lot so I managed to get a lie-down for 2 hours after returning from the paed's. Then I was off to Cold Storage to buy some simple meat and veg so that Bryan would have some "ching" (clear) meals this week till he fully recovers. And after writing this post, I'm back to my in-laws.
So sorry if I haven't been to your site lately. I'll do so soon, before my adrenaline runs out!
To start off with, VT was in the Lion City for one week for a course, which extended past a weekend as well. I packed our bags and set up camp at my parents in the interest of safety and also company. My cousin who was visiting came over for a chat as well so the weekend went by pretty quickly although Bryan was very clingy and didn't want my parents to carry.
Then there was the usual work including a couple of "surprise" assignments which I had to get done in a jiffy. But work's work, so let's not talk about it here.
The contractors were called to our home to fix a leaky roof and to re-do the water-proofing in the toilets, both of which were causing watermarks to appear on our living room walls. That took up Saturday afternoon, and even then they will be back this weekend to paint the walls.
Last night, we attended our first wedding dinner with Bryan (together with my in-laws). It was held at Westin KL. I can't tell you whether it was a nice affair or not because I was hanging out with Bryan at the foyer 90% of the time. He was over-whelmed by the number of people and just didn't want to settle. Bryan was much happier roaming about the circular-shaped foyer and I managed to find a pen and paper to keep him occupied for a while. Then he wanted to touch the ice scupltures and pick up the rose petals that were strewn on the floor. No more weddings with Bryan until he is 7 years old, VT and I agreed!
In the middle of the night last night, I felt Bryan's body getting warm. I monitored for a while and the temperature kept rising despite being in an air-conditioned room. At 4am, I woke VT up to get the Paracetomal and we gave him a dose. His body was burning! Poor Bryan was tossing and turning the whole night and unable to sleep. An hour later, I sponged him down with tepid water and again, waited. This time, I could feel the temperature coming off slightly but made up our minds that if he wasn't asleep by 6am we will take him to the A&E. Bryan then fell into a slumber just before 6am, and so did I.
When he woke up at around 7:30am, his body still felt warm though he was able to take his breakfast and was his usual active self. VT & I still brought him to Dr Kwan for a once-over just to be safe. Dr Kwan couldn't find anything wrong so we're keeping our fingers (and toes!) crossed that it isn't dengue or anything more serious than a simple viral infection. My last call to check with my MIL was that Bryan's temperature was down to 37 degrees Celcius.
I decided to take a day off work to get some sleep, having not slept much last night. Our #2 was already protesting by kicking a lot so I managed to get a lie-down for 2 hours after returning from the paed's. Then I was off to Cold Storage to buy some simple meat and veg so that Bryan would have some "ching" (clear) meals this week till he fully recovers. And after writing this post, I'm back to my in-laws.
So sorry if I haven't been to your site lately. I'll do so soon, before my adrenaline runs out!
Monday, 11 February 2008
Our Chinese New Year
I consider ourselves lucky that CNY this year falls on Thursday & Friday such that we get a nice long 4-day weekend. In fact I was already on leave on the Eve but that was for running around. So, what were we up to?
Eve - Reunion dinner at PILs
1st Day - Customary mee suah lunch at PILs then to VT's granny place where all the relative congregate. VT has (had) 4 grannies but only 1 surviving (his) hence it's like a circus every year. The family custom is also to distribute 2 angpow packets per child, which aptly explains me wrapping 140 packets! This is my 4th years spending CNY with them but I still struggle with the names. I get by with "Aunty" and "Uncle"!
2nd Day - Lunch at my parents, who whipped up a storm! Can't remember much of the rest of the day since I was too stuffed with food!
3rd Day - Organised a small kiddies gathering at my place. Will blog about it separately.
4th Day - Went down to Klang to meet some more relatives (VT's side) and watched 4 straight hours of Barney thereafter as VT was napping and we couldn't go out!
Of late, Bryan has been waking up from his naps, crying hysterically. There was once when he cried and yelled for 40mins and didn't want to be put down. Nothing could pacify him until I gave him a small tub of ice-cream. I think it could be over-excitement from all the celebrations as he has been napping 45mins once a day during the holidays. Luckily, he is able to konk off for 11-13hours at night.
Tomorrow it's back to the grind.
Eve - Reunion dinner at PILs
1st Day - Customary mee suah lunch at PILs then to VT's granny place where all the relative congregate. VT has (had) 4 grannies but only 1 surviving (his) hence it's like a circus every year. The family custom is also to distribute 2 angpow packets per child, which aptly explains me wrapping 140 packets! This is my 4th years spending CNY with them but I still struggle with the names. I get by with "Aunty" and "Uncle"!
2nd Day - Lunch at my parents, who whipped up a storm! Can't remember much of the rest of the day since I was too stuffed with food!
3rd Day - Organised a small kiddies gathering at my place. Will blog about it separately.
4th Day - Went down to Klang to meet some more relatives (VT's side) and watched 4 straight hours of Barney thereafter as VT was napping and we couldn't go out!
Of late, Bryan has been waking up from his naps, crying hysterically. There was once when he cried and yelled for 40mins and didn't want to be put down. Nothing could pacify him until I gave him a small tub of ice-cream. I think it could be over-excitement from all the celebrations as he has been napping 45mins once a day during the holidays. Luckily, he is able to konk off for 11-13hours at night.
Tomorrow it's back to the grind.
Monday, 31 December 2007
On/Off
Bryan loves to mess around with remote controls - he will point the colourful Astro control at the TV and looks at us with puzzled look on his face when it doesn't go to PHDC! Sometimes, VT and I wish that Bryan has an "On/Off" button - we can turn him on only past 9 in the morning (as opposed to his usual waking time of 6:30am) and turn him off when he's bouncing off the walls.
We were at my cousin's late Xmas do last night and really, those were one of the times when we wished we could turn him off for a moment because he was everywhere! And poor VT had to go around chasing him the whole night while Mummy lied down like a piece of dead sardine. I would had thought that I would feel better after going off the hormone pills, but No, I still have evening sickness and get really tired by day end. I pity VT lah, because we have a little dynamo in our hands. Sometimes he looks so tired himself but I'm half-vegetable these days!
Tonight we are contermplating on going to a friend's house for dinner. I'm not that keen as it means another round of constant chasing for VT. But we'll see how it goes. If we stay in, we can at least see some fireworks from our house which are let-go at The Curve.
With that, I bid you farewell for 2007 and see you next year!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
We were at my cousin's late Xmas do last night and really, those were one of the times when we wished we could turn him off for a moment because he was everywhere! And poor VT had to go around chasing him the whole night while Mummy lied down like a piece of dead sardine. I would had thought that I would feel better after going off the hormone pills, but No, I still have evening sickness and get really tired by day end. I pity VT lah, because we have a little dynamo in our hands. Sometimes he looks so tired himself but I'm half-vegetable these days!
Tonight we are contermplating on going to a friend's house for dinner. I'm not that keen as it means another round of constant chasing for VT. But we'll see how it goes. If we stay in, we can at least see some fireworks from our house which are let-go at The Curve.
With that, I bid you farewell for 2007 and see you next year!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
Wednesday, 26 December 2007
Return of the Appetite
That would be name I would give a movie, that is, if I made one now. Yes indeed, my appetite has finally returned! We had a few friends over yesterday for Xmas brunch - roast chicken, grilled lamb chops, sausages, salad and ahem - mashed potatoes. It was really good to catch up with Jovy and her little gal, Norelle. I had to pass on the red wine though which VT said was excellent. Anyhow, I did stuff myself with canned longans.
Anyway, back to the topic. I was really surprised that I could eat and quite a bit too. And guess what? The food stayed down the whole time. Then of course, being good ol' worrisome me, I started to worry that something was amiss and freaked VT out as well. Good thing is that I had my scheduled appointment with the ob-gyn this morning. The scan shows a healthy little embryo and I even get to stop taking the hormone pills!
I can't wait to feel like old self again!
Anyway, back to the topic. I was really surprised that I could eat and quite a bit too. And guess what? The food stayed down the whole time. Then of course, being good ol' worrisome me, I started to worry that something was amiss and freaked VT out as well. Good thing is that I had my scheduled appointment with the ob-gyn this morning. The scan shows a healthy little embryo and I even get to stop taking the hormone pills!
I can't wait to feel like old self again!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
