wy talks

Christmas at the Park - Make A Wish

2011-12-27T14:00:00.003+08:00

Christmas may have came and gone. All the buzyness, lots of feasting and shopping have filled our schedule to the max. But one thing for sure the light of the Almighty One shinning through will only grow stronger and brighter and always lighted up. I hope that everyone has somehow felt and experience this Light and His love and peace during this holiday season.

I have the priviledge to be part of an exciting event organised for children. The Children's Church this year had Christmas at a park near church I am attending. We invited the residents near church (by giving out flyers) and also to orphanage and the hardcore poor homes.

God is good! Weather that morning was sunny and windy. There were 91 children registered on that day and unregistered ones were more than 10 (mostly too young to join in, so they stayed close with their parents). We expected a number of 100 children. Good thing being Malaysian, we always prepare more. From the registration list, there were 42.8% not from our church.

When I took on the role to organise this event, I knew I had a problem of manpower because I am still very, very new in the Children's Ministry. So only key roles were assigned but things like helpers in each team I seriously have big problem. I sent some emails and sms out. However, that morning though there were not many helpers (only 22 adults) but each one just helped each other to get the place ready. We carried stuff, arranged tables, moved chairs, some pumped balloons, climbed chairs hanging Christmas deco and balloons. Some (thankfully) swept and mopped the basketball court. So in just 1 1/2 hours the place was set to welcome the children.

The programme of 2 hours went very smooth.

Registration - Each child was given a name tag and assigned to a group

Make A Wish - Then they can write on the 'wish card' their wish(es) and hang onto the Christmas tree.

Welcome - Passing parcel game where some 'lucky' ones got prize.

Games (thank you Mi Lin, very well organised and easy enough yet very fun to play) - 5 stations named after countries. Altogether 10 groups of 8-10 children, 2 groups to a station to compete. In Malaysia children play football, Philippines children dance tinikling , Myanmar children learn 3 greetings in Myanmarese, Indonesia children play semut, orang, gajah and China children to build great wall.

Presentations - 'Sow Seed (sa zhong zi)' by children from Chinese Session and 'We were the Reason' by children from English Session.

Lunch - Fried yee mee with chicken and egg slice. All food pack of 150 were given out. No wastage. They were then treated with ice-cream. Even adults also lined-up for the free ice-cream.

Gifts - Children always happy to receive gift and we prepared more than enough.

All good things must come to an end and so is Christmas at the Park - Make A Wish. But the wishes of children can only be fulfilled by the Almighty One. So till the next major event (which will be in June 2012) I shall keep my head held high and heart close to my Lord.

Haapy New Year everyone!

Birthday comes early this year

2011-11-19T10:05:00.001+08:00

Not denying my age as I am celebrating the end of thirties this year. Life has been good and very good. Having a new car to drive I thought was great and yesterday Alyssa got her trophy for coming first in class in her exams.

But I've received something so unexpected....tickets to Alam Tam Concert! (I have been a fan of Hong Kong superstar Alan Tam since school days.)

My loving hubby surprised me with the tickets. OMG can't believe this is real. Never will I thought that I will go to a concert like this. Anyway it's tonight and I am just so excited.

It gets better...I'm sailing in a cruise on my birthday! And with the most important people to me. I am so looking forward to all these excitement.

Ok back to reality...mop the floor first.

20 minutes Frustration and 5 minutes Patience!

2011-11-14T10:01:00.003+08:00

My last blog post was more than 5 months ago!

This morning after gym I got home but couldn't find my house key in the car. Usually Alyssa locks the gate (don't have auto-gate) and 'throw' the keys to the front passenger seat. So I was looking high and low, front and back. Did she even lock the gate??? Question came to my mind.

Called hubby...confirm no extra keys at home and the gate was lock when he went to work this morning. Then immediately he called me if I need him to come back cause he was not too far away from house. Of course yes lah. Lo behold I found the keys BUT it's stuck inside the hand brake hole. Called hubby again say no need to come back.

Twenty minutes later called him again..."I can't get the keys out!" By this time he was already on the highway and probably reaching office soon. So told myself BE PATIENT. Slowly and diligently...plus some skill and lots of prayer...finally got hold of the keys. Guess what that only took me 5 minutes.

Now I know where are all the tools in this new car (less than 10 days we got it) and what I have in there.

Corrective Contact Lense

2011-06-10T10:23:00.000+08:00

Have you heard of corrective contact lenses that can correct short sighted without having go under surgery? It's called Ortho-K (Orthokeratology) .

Orthokeratology is the design and fitting of special gas permeable contacts that gently reshape the clear front surface of the eye (cornea), so you can see clearly even after you remove the lenses. Unlike LASIK, however, the corneal reshaping effect of orthokeratology is temporary — generally enough to eliminate your need for glasses or contacts for a day or so. Then you have to wear the ortho-k lenses again to maintain the proper corneal shape. The reshaping only takes place when you wear the contact lense to sleep overnight that is at least 6 hours or more. Suitable for treatment of up to -5.00D short sighted and -1.50D of astigmatism and for anyone even children.

I have just put Alyssa into this treatment. She's turning 11 in July. It was recommended by my neighbour whom daughter has a similar situation as Alyssa. The process involved of many visits to the optometrist (you can visit her profile here). First visit is to measure all the necessities and taking a map of the cornea. Second visit is to put the contact lease for an hour trial. If no complication then can proceed to 6 hours trial the next day.

Alyssa on 6 hours trial now. Just put on for her and later will go to the optometrist. If everything goes well then she can start wearing it everynight. Initially one will still need to wear glasses even after wearing the contact lenses overnight BUT at a much lower power. This will a month or so depends on the degree of short sighted.

In Alyssa's case where her short sightedness is -6.00, her treatment might takes a longer period before she can be off the glasses. And not only that the cost of the whole treatment is also higher. Will not disclose the exact amount here but can tell you that this cost thousands. No worries cost is much lesser than LASIK. The cost is inclusive of the optometrist professional fee, contact lenses and glasses needed.

Why I don't let her undergo the treatment a year ago when I heard of it? First the cost and I was not confident that she can handle them - the contact lense. My prayer is there will no complications or infections ever happen to Alyssa.

Approaching Father's Day

2011-06-08T08:40:00.000+08:00

Father's Day is coming. All sorts of advertisement placed in the local newspapers to promote their products especially for fathers. Some called it Parent's Day (include Mother's Day), 2 in 1...that's how to save money and ideas on promo.

For me, being the sad and grieving me, should I look forward to Father's Day. My dad has passed away a few months ago. Infact on Valentine's Day, just 4 months ago. Now both my dad and my father-in-law are not around anymore. Is there a reason to celebrate Father's Day, as I asked myself.

I have not came to this page (writing a blog post) not that I'm lazy but because I am so afraid to face myself. My father-in-law passed away just one and a half month before my dad. He was in a coma after a fall. Dealing with his loss was difficult but we made it through. Knowing he is in a better place with the Lord rather than suffering on the sick bed.

My dad's death came as a shock to me. He was supposed to go for a body check-up. He was having cough and difficulty to sleep at night. After a few visits to the clinic and and an X-ray, nobody can tell what is really wrong with him. That day to the clinic (another doctor) was an early farewell bid to all. He had water in his lungs and died of heart failure when doing treatment in the hospital.

I stay 200 over KM away from my parents and did not have a chance to say goodbye to my dad. After his death, I was in such a denial stage and I refused to talk about his passing. An revelation came to me that I should not keep to myself anymore. God has spoken. I must speak out. In that moment I told the Lord I'm going to speak on Father's Day in church.

There is no reason I shouldn't celebrate Father's Day cause there is a far greater Father whom I trust. As the Lord's Prayer begins with 'Our Father who art in heaven...' We have a Father that see us all the time.

Life is hard, but God is good—all the time.

Once called home

2011-02-11T13:10:00.001+08:00

Visits to Muar were always not complete without 'see monkey'. A very popular tourist attraction at Tanjung Ketapang (known to me as Tanjung), next to Muar River, lives many monkeys. They are left living in wild but many tourists like me and maybe some faithful locals too choose to feed them (which is not encouraged ).

However the recent trip I was saddened by what was going on there. The forrest...the trees....were half gone. They may be a nuisance to residents nearby which is maybe a kilometre or two away. Quite close to some government squatters and a rest house that is not in operation. But whylah clear their home!

Can't understand what is the rational behind this move. Maybe want to beautify the park. I do see a lot of outdoor gym equipments installed. A walkway bridge is built from road to the river. Wondering what's next and how much more money will be spent there. In years to come all facilities will probably not properly maintained or taken care. Start well ends ??? Sense my frustration right!

Picture taken few years ago before bridge was built

Bridge was built more than 2 years ago

Sometimes a change is good for the betterment of lifestyle and human being. But as human being we shall appreciate the mother nature and other living things like monkeys.

Coming to the end of 2010

2010-12-30T13:35:00.003+08:00

Coming to the end of Year 2010...As I reflect on the past one year, I recall of many happenings, some trips and still counting my blessings. But for the past one month, I would like to highlight some here.

Hannah - Music Drama Class recital

Goldilocks Teaching the Three Brown Bears to Recycle

Christmas shopping

One Utama

The Gardens and Mid Valley Megamall

Bangsar Shopping Centre

Cosy and nice to walk around. Met Santa and got a gift from Santa, a teddy bear. Experience snow fall too. Children were playing 'snow', surrounded by real Christmas trees and a fountain.

Christmas Gathering The cell group had Christmas gathering at my place. There is always lots of laughter and cries too. Well with 7 toddlers running and playing, there bound to be some jumping, falling, running into, snatching and fighting for 'the seat'. That night went well, though with some mishaps, nothing major. I remember Isaac fell off a stool and said "No pain, no pain". Haha that was funny. I had fun seeing them playing together. They are such joy to have. Thanks too to my two girls helped out in entertaining the children. As for food thank you mama Cheah for the yummy and ever popular lobak. PN did well in her curry chicken attempt.

from L to R ...children playing, giving out Christmas gifts, children playing and Ann with her baby Caylee (and kissing balloon)

Christmas Celebration at IOI Boulevard Many programmes took place that night but I didn't snap much. It was raining and strong wind when we reached there that evening. But as the night got darker rain also got less heavier and eventually stopped. Something I did during the event which I have not done for many, many years ie Donate Blood. As for my girls, they took part in the colouring competition.

colouring competiton

Children Church Christmas Celebration We sang some carols, aunty Florence told the true meaning of Christmas, aunty Mi Lin led the children with some games. Then we served yummy food. A group of orphanage joined us.

Trip to Malacca We don't go to Malacca often. I would say maybe 2 years once. But in this month of December we went there twice. First was part of our balik kampung holiday to Muar/Malacca when Alyssa was hospitalised. Then few days ago was due to my father in law admitted into the ICU ward for brain hemorrhage. Both times also in Pantai Hospital. We contributed a lot to the parking business in the hospital.

from L to R ... the girls at aunty Rosemary's house, Lao Qian Icy Cold Coffee, the long queue outside chicken ball rice shop and Hannah really bored waiting for chicken ball rice

I am just praying all things will end on a happy note. New hope, new beginning for the new year.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Mastoiditis

2010-12-11T08:09:00.007+08:00

Mastoiditis is an infection of mastoid process, the portion of the temporal bone of the skull that is behind the ear which contains open, air-containing spaces. It is usually caused by untreated acute otitis media (middle ear infection) and used to be a leading cause of child mortality. It is treated with medications and/or surgery. If untreated, the infection can spread to surrounding structures, including the brain, causing serious complications. (taken from wikipedia)

Alyssa was admitted to the Pediatric Ward, Pantai Malacca for Mastoiditis on Saturday, 4/12/10 for 5 days. She has ear and bone infection. There is a swell behind her ear ie the temporal bone of the skull. She was given antibiotics through Intravenous (IV) therapy twice a day. Once after dinner and once at 5 am.

She was having fever and pain. On night one, the whole night nurse came in every other hour to either check her temperature or to give medicine. She did sleep throughout the night, probably was too drowsy due to medicine. But I didn't get to sleep.

In the morning the single room was available. Yeah! I probably get some sleep as I thought to myself. Well I did. Quite nice room with sofa set. She gets to order western food. She had chicken chop and fish & chips.

Alyssa did a CT scan to see if there is any abscess in the swell. If there is any abscess and swell does not subside, then she might has to go for operation. Thank God NO ABSCESS.

So after 5 days of IV, she was discharged (with all smiles) and has to continue oral medication for another 5 days.

The moral of the story is....simple flu and cough can lead to serious complication if not probably treated and given due care.

Gathering with friends

2010-11-30T13:44:00.009+08:00

This is probably the last gathering at the Teoh's residence in Ara Damansara as they are migrating to Australia.

from top L - R Joseph, Michael, Esther, Natalie, Alyssa, Cynthia, Hannah, Chloe, Zoe, Isaac, Danielle (with her cute cute face) and Vanessa.

Food - Nasi lemak, fried chicken (ayam goreng berempah), squid curry, sambal. Also roti jala (lasy pancakes) with curry chicken and satay. For the children specially prepared sausages and sandwiches. Dessert pulut inti (glutinous rice with sweet coconut).
Fun - 'The Amazing Race Home Edition' (prepared by uh-hum...me)

and balloons fight (balloons I brought but fight not my idea).

Fellowship - Catching up with cell members from the good old days. Good old days as we grow older things get better. Old - because we are getting older and children are getting bigger.

Thank you Irvin and Geraldine for your warm hospitality and generous dinner. We are going to miss you. It's my prayer that you'll continue to look onto the Almighty God for His directions and may His blessings and protection follows you and your family in the new land.

Sweet bad for teeth?

2010-10-01T16:16:00.002+08:00

Having sweets for children is really bad for teeth? Maybe. If not sufficient oral care. If don't take sweets will that make their childhood less interesting?

My 7 years old Hannah just got her front bottom tooth extracted. Reason - the permanent (adult) tooth is growing. I took her to dentist this morning. She was given jab around the tooth. After a few minutes, dentist extracted the tooth. The tooth was firmly rooted. Dentist got to change position after failing pulling out the first time.

Few days ago Hannah complained teeth pain but actual fact another tooth is cutting her gums trying to grow. After that she refused to open her mouth to show me. Then when we finally got to see her teeth, I was very concern. Baby tooth is not loose and not shaking at all. The new tooth is double the length of her milk tooth. So how? No choice go dentist lor. Next question - gotto extract two???

Anyway extracted only one. The new tooth has grown too much to the left. Dentist is afraid that if extract two teeth out it will move further left.

Hannah doesn't take sweets. She learned in kindy during one of the dental care classes that eating sweets will make teeth turn black and drop.

Well she has great respect towards teachers and doctors. Whatever they say is true. She just listens and obey.

So she has strong baby teeth!

Beads necklace & bracelet

2010-09-25T00:36:00.005+08:00

Grandma made the two princess more beads necklaces & bracelets. She bought her supply from this kioks in a shopping mall in Muar. The lady boss was kind enough to give my mother-in-law tips on beads making.

Here are some pictures....

Model in training

Music Drama Class - Bumblebee Recital (Cont')

2010-07-13T09:43:00.008+08:00

You can view the video here.

3 July 2010
Bumblebee Music and Arts Centre

During practice

Hannah getting her make-up done

Hannah always ready to pose

Hannah & Jern Ling (the teacher's daughter)

Finale pose

The three musketeers

(Jern Ling, Zhi Xiang, Hannah)

The theme was Musical Weather. The children started off with greetings to all, then followed by a weather rap entitled Pitter Patter.

Story 1 - Swimming at the beach

Narrator - Jern Ling

Sun - Jen Hee

Wind - Yee Hung

Rain - Annebelle

Thunderstorm - Anie

Splashing Sound - Zhi Xiang

Swimmer - Hannah

Story 2 - Painting a statue

Narrator - Hannah

Statue - Jern Ling

Painter - Zhi Xiang

Sun - Jen Hee

Wind - Yee Hung

Rain - Annebelle

Thunderstorm - Anie

The children put up a good show...was the highlight of the whole concert that evening. They did so well despite of limited practices. Managed to memorise all their lines and lyrics. Hannah can't wait for another concert and kept asking her teacher (Michelle) when is the next one.

Well done!

Music Drama Class - Bumblebee Recital

2010-07-05T14:21:00.003+08:00

3 July 2010

Bumblebee Music and Art Centre

Bandar Puteri Puchong

Hannah is the swimmer in Story 1 and the narrator in Story 2

Pitter Patter......

Story 1......Swimming at the beach

Story 2......Painting a statue

Beads necklace / bracelet

2010-07-04T14:59:00.008+08:00

During the previous school holidays, my daughters learned how to make beads necklace from their grandmother. They did a few simple pattern necklaces. I think it's quite an art for children especially girls to learn and can be an hobby too. It is also a great gift for friends.

Here is Alyssa making a necklace for her friend, Natalie.

Checking on various websites, you can find many helpful tips and what more many patterns we can follow. I think beads making requires little skill (for simple pattern) but a lot of patience and concentration.

Here are some necklaces Alyssa and Hannah did.....some by my mother-in-law.

For beginners....materials needed are tigertail (wire), beads and barrel clasp screw. Now should I get some materials for them? Maybe during the long school break end of the year.

Miss me or not?

2010-07-01T14:12:00.003+08:00

Last June 2010, hubby and I went for an overseas trip for a week. We decided to send our two girls back to my in-laws place in Muar, Johor. In order minimise our separation time with the children, we sent them to Muar the day before we left Malaysia and we go again to Muar on the same day we touch down to KLIA.

Well in total they spent 10 days in Muar with their grandparents. When we were away, I made long distance call to them twice. All sorts of thoughts came to my mind before we left and when we were away. Will they miss me very much? Will my pampered princess cry all the time?

No...she didn't cry because mummy not there (but she did cry for other reasons - too pampered). Alyssa was playing her role as the cher cher (older sister). She wrote down what Hannah did throughout the day including the time also. What time they watch TV, when they went out, which dress Hannah wore to church, how much Hannah cried and later told me why.

I couldn't have depended on Alyssa more...when I saw the script Hannah need to memorise for her music drama recital. Read it only the night before we left for Muar and she has to memorise them for practice during her class ie on the day we come back from Muar. That means I can't help her at all!!! Well, Hannah managed to act out and sing without the printed script during the first practice. All thanks to her big sister, Alyssa. (Thanks girl girl)

I guess they are being very well prepared mentally that during our absence they will be spending their holidays in Muar and with their grandparents.

Of course I did tell them beforehand. Many times. I also told them....

...............the do's and don'ts
...............list of tasks they must complete
...............pack enough drawing pads for Hannah (she draws everyday)
...............let Alyssa pack what whe wants to bring
...............where daddy and mummy going (show pictures, watch Samantha Brown Passport to...)

The girls were very excited seeing us after our trip. Pulling my hands and fighting over me. They found a new hobby that is making beads necklace. Grandma taught them. They also went to a fruit plantation, playground, played with balloon sculptures.

I was so tired after 12 hours of flight and many hours awake, I went to bed early that night. The girls also follow me sleep early. And my mother-in-law also slept early (she must be very tired too).

Fever sounds serious nowadays

2010-05-19T14:22:00.008+08:00

When a child is having fever, it cannot be taken lightly. When my child is having fever, I used to give fever medicine first and sponge her. If fever persists after a day or so then only bring her to the clinic. BUT now with the Influenza A H1N1 pandemic, I have to be extra precaution.

Hannah this morning woke up and complained headache. Body warm and weak. Temperature 38.8 degree Celcius. She looked really sick. No choice but to take her to the clinic and see Dr Lee Ern Ern. Doctor gave birth already! Three months ago! I last saw her very the pregnant when Hannah vomited in school. Well, confirm fever and sore throat. If fever doesn't go down in 24 hours then got to bring her to hospital for Influenza A H1N1 test.

So after clinic, petrol station (got to refuel my car) and bought bread, came home. Quickly mix a drink and two slices of bread with margarine. It was almost time to pick Alyssa from school. After eating a few small bites and drink a few sips, Hannah vomited. Sigh! Clean, mop, wash the dining chair.

She refused to eat anymore... "What if I eat bread and vomit again?" Another sigh! Suddenly I got an excellent idea. Turn on TV to Astro Playhouse Disney Channel. Guess what the trick works......hahaha. It was like miracle water.

(After I came back from picking up Alyssa....)
Hannah finished her food and drink. No vomitting or whatsoever. Heard her giggling too. But body temperature was still high. Took her medicine, drank lots of water, bathe and continue watch TV.

Who is the boss in your house?

2010-05-03T14:31:00.003+08:00

Wondering who makes the final decision in your house or who very much influence the decision. What to eat, where to eat for eating out, where to go for leisure time. Does it need to be child friendly?

Many men used to say his wife is the boss and women say otherwise. If you have young growing up kids...is your child the boss of your family? Does your child needs, wants and requests included in your decision making?

When eating out, during my girl was at the age of 2 plus, I normally order food that can be shared with her. The venue has to be cooling (if air-conditioned better still), has wide choices of non spicy food, short waiting time, has baby chair. In short she influenced my decision of what I eat and where we go to dine.

When going out for leisure time - most of the time shopping. We tend to choose shopping centres that has wide walking space, cooling, has pet shops, indoor playground etc.

When going for holiday trips, if local (cuti-cuti Malaysia), driving is the best option. Alyssa sleeps most of the time throughout the whole journey. Hannah is happy when she is well fed, sitting comfortably on her baby child (when she was younger) and fully occupied with her magnetic drawing board. Travelling for us was quite an ease. When Hannah was almost 3 years old we started going overseas trip. For me the worst was to carry the back pack full of her necessity like flasks for hot water and drinking bottles during visits to 'tourist' area. Not to mention when she wants to sleep which is a MUST for her then my horror starts. I remember carrying the sleeping Hannah for 2 hours plus walking inside Singapore Zoo. She refused to sleep in the stroller.

This one thing I am very proud of them that is they are very obedient children. They speak with indoor voice when we are eating out. They will buckle up when riding in a car. They normally will preocuppied themselves with books or phonegames while waiting for flight.

I believe when we have children or planning to have children, many aspects of our life circle around our children. For example where we live, what furniture to buy (glass or wood), what car (how many seaters) and so on. But on how we bring up our children, it has to be OUR decision and not theirs.

Happy Parenting!

A trip to Bali, Indonesia

2010-03-31T14:48:00.007+08:00

During school holidays in March 2010, hubby & I brought our two princesses to a holiday trip in Bali. My godsis, hubby & son joined us. We flew AirAsia from LCCT to Ngurah Rai International Airport on the 14th morning. 30 minutes of driving (thanks Lam for driving) , 2 hours of waiting and 3 hours of flying and we were in BALI. A long waited holiday destination.

Itinerary

Day 1

Check-in Wina Holiday Hotel, Kuta
Pura Taman Ayun, Mengwi (temple)
Sunset at Tanah Lot
Dinner at Naughty Nuri's Warung

Day 2

Breakfast in hotel
Kintamani
Kopi Luwak
Lunch at Bebek Bengil Dirty Duck Diner
Wood Carving, Stone Carving
Shop around Kuta
Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe

Day 3

Nyepi Day (The day of silence) - all hotel guest were not permitted going out of the hotel.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner in hotel
Children - morning & evening at swimming pool, TV and card games
Parents - eat, sleep, eat, sleep, eat and Indonesian Massage

Day 4

Breakfast in hotel
Barong Dance at Batu Bulan
Shopping at Pasar Seni Sukawati (Artist Market Sukawati)
Lunch at Ibu Oka Babi Guling
Shopping at Ubud Market
Goa Gajah
Uluwatu beach
Sunset at Pura Luhur Uluwatu (temple)
Dinner at Sharkey's Seafood Jimbaran Bay

Day 5

Breakfast at hotel
Shopping (see only no buy) at Legian & Kuta
Lunch at Made's Warung, Kuta

If I were to visit Bali again....places I would like to go again....

Temples - Uluwatu & Tanah Lot.

Meals - Naughty Nuri's (and maybe Bebek Bengil)

Shopping - definitely at Sukawati (and maybe around Ubud area)

If I were to visit Bali again....

I would like to stay a night or two at Lovina beach & see dolphin

Then stay a night or two at Ubud

Shop habis-habis at Sukawati & Ubud

If I were to visit Bali again....

I will not shop at Kuta or Legian area for shirts, dress or survenirs

I will prepare physically and mentally strong in bargaining for the best price in my purchases

I will avoid Nyepi day

We always look forward to our holiday trips especially overseas ones and this trip is more memorable and special because I had my sis with me. For my 2 girls, they had a blast with their cousin, Jeremy.

CNY Fireworks

2010-02-23T16:11:00.003+08:00

Nowadays it is so common to see fireworks during Chinese New Year (CNY). It has been fascinating to my daughter Alyssa (and myself). We used to go to The Mines (in Serdang) to catch the few minutes of fireworks display during CNY.

This video was taken in front of my brother's house on 5th day of CNY.

Hannah vomited in school

2010-02-02T11:07:00.002+08:00

Barely a month into primary one, Hannah vomited in her class, on her desk, on her school bag and around her place. Sigh! A big 'sigh' for the teacher. Her class teacher called me on my handphone at three plus in the afternoon. Told me of the vomit. She has no change of clothing but took out her pinafore and shoes and socks are also dirty.

I was cleaning the girls' room at that time when I received the call. Got myself changed. Washed my face & hands. Took Hannah's slipper. Off we went to her school which is just 1.5 km away. When Alyssa & I went looking for her in her class, the Music teacher told us Hannah was at the Teacher's Room. We quickly make our way there. She was sitting outside the Teacher's Room, barefooted and in her white shirt and shorts. (She had her shorts on because got Physical Exercise class on Mondays).

Then we went back to her classroom to take her bag and sign documents for taking her home early. To my horror I finally saw where she vomited. She was doing her Maths activity book. Now I have to buy a new book. Took her stained bag (unzipped with books inside), HSM3 pencil box, some other books (that thankfully not affected) and newspaper (teacher used it for covering).

What a mess! What horrible stench! Wash, scrub, sun, febreze (fabric refreshener and odor remover).

Hannah vomited 3 times...the major one which I didn't witness. Then again when I was collecting her stuff and again when about to take bath. Gave her some warm water and she went to rest. As she was resting, felt her quite warm...mild fever. But she was too tired to move. After an hour her temperature went up. So took her to the clinic. Doctor said watch out if it is appendicitis but most likely is viral infection. Got to make sure she takes her medicine and don't vomit out.

After the vomit she had only a piece of Weetameal (Jacob's biscuit), 20 ml of 4 types of medicine and a little water. She slept till morning. Only woke up for medicine & change into pyjamas. This morning woke up early, in time to see daddy off to work. Had 2 slices of bread, an egg and 1/2 slice of cheese. Went for her chinese tuition and wanted to go to school too. But I told her to rest at home.

Memories of year end 2009 and beginning of 2010

2010-01-22T09:46:00.014+08:00

It's coming to end of 3rd week of school. Time flies. Was thinking to blog on school holidays, Christmas gathering, 1 week shopping spree and school reopen. Well since I can't turn back clock, might as well do all these in one post.

Year end school holiday was quite short for me. We had trips back to Ipoh and Muar. Then Christmas and school reopen preparation. Put up Christmas tree and some deco. Clean up the house for Christmas gathering. Get all the uniforms, shoes, bags and stationeries ready. Wrap some books and it was year end already.

Thank God we had some events in between making the school holidays more interesting. Our cell group Christmas gathering! Food, children laughter (and crying), parents mingling, gift exchange......what a day of the year to look forward to. Seeing the children grow and achieving their milestones year after year, that really make me feel 'satisfied' like I've just had bitter sweet thick and creamy durian or a cup of really rich ice blended mocha.

Parents busy with gift exchange

On the final week of the year 2009, hubby took leave from work and we went shopping. After a few days, my two girls were sick of the word 'shopping'. Till now we still joke with them about going shopping. Whenever they ask where are we going (when we about to go out), hubby and I will answer "shopping!". Then with a frown on their face "huh...shopping again!!!"

And then we welcome the year 2010.............

School term started on 4 January. Hannah going to Year 1 (afternoon session) and Alyssa to Year 4 (morning session). What drags me most to this day was waking up at 6 in the morning. Good bye to my sweet mornings as this day will change my sleeping hours for many, many years to come. On the bright side...since waking up so early in the morning, I might as well go for early workout in the gym or for a morning jog around my area.

Well, the thought counts. I failed the 1st and 2nd week. Was very sleepy and tired. Some days were raining too, so I couldn't jog (thank God). This week quite good...went to gym 3 times and managed to run 5 km outside here yesterday.

With the girls in school, tuition or doing homework, I found myself more time to do housework. So I cleared some of the mess which was piled up in the upstairs hall. Earlier, I moved some stuff from living hall, the girls' room all to the upstairs hall adding to the boxes which has been there for years. Sorted some books to keep and some to send to recycling centre.

Next project will be filing (which is long, long overdue) and also to prepare itinerary for our Bali holiday trip. Going with my godsis family.

Time passes, children keep on growing, house always get dusty, car needs to be washed often and life goes on....what remains just memories of the past (if only we can remember everything). Recently, I made a challenge for myself to impact on other people's life through God's way. To see me more fired up for God and also hopefully influence others too.

School Reunion

2009-12-01T14:24:00.008+08:00

More than a year ago, some schoolmates started discussing on organising a school reunion in the year 2009. In the evening 28 Nov 2009, the school reunion took place at Impiana Casuarina Hotel, Ipoh. The excitement of seeing friends (after many, many moons) was overwhelming.

All along I knew not many as I expected would attend this gathering and I was quite disappointed some of my close friends back in school days won't be going. But soon the feeling of disappointment disappeared. I saw many school friends, many that I've not seen since we left school, some came for the previous reunion 10 years ago. I must say we didn't change much. TG. Many commented I still looked the same. Still pretty I guess!

The evening was filled with surprises. First - teachers were also invited. Primary & secondary school teachers including our headmistresses. Salute to the committees in getting them to come. They were introduced one by one as they came in to the ballroom to take their seats. Then there were slide shows of our photos taken during school days. I saw a photo of me which I don't recall at all taken together with some girls in school. I was slimmer and darker back then.

The most shocking that evening was my primary school teacher came up to me (before meals were even served) and called out my name. She asked if I remember her. Frankly at that moment I was really blur and shock seeing so many teachers right before me. She remembered my name, so I have to answer ........

Me : "YES, of course I remember you".
Teacher : "Remember my daughter, Sok Ching?"
(Me - Ahhhhhh......Mrs Cheong)
Me : "Oh yes, how is your daughter Sok Ping (the older one)?)
Teacher : "She.............."

Mrs Cheong was my class teacher in Primary 4, I think. Whenever I see her or bump into her during my secondary days, I will go up to her and greet her, "Good morning, Mrs Cheong". She was one of my favourite teachers. Now I know I'm one of her favourite students.

A very memorable evening .... thank you to my school friends out there who has sacrificing their time and effort in organising this reunion, bringing the teachers, schoolmates together, preparing slide shows, decorating the ballroom, looking into all the details for our comfort and enjoyment. Next reunion?

Busy and Exciting October

2009-11-12T16:14:00.006+08:00

Time does not wait...... How true it is. Another month has passed, now almost mid of Nov and very soon we’re coming to end of 2009.

It was a busy October. A series of event took place and before I forget them I better write them down first.

Run for the Nation - A 5km run and pray, nationwide on 10the October...I participated.

Exams – This is the 11th exam Alyssa has gone through in her primary school life. In other circumstances where we have many, many practices, we can perfect our task. However, NOT in school exams. Exams just get harder & tougher. THANKFULLY, Alyssa also made some progress in terms of self discipline and initiative. (That reflects in her exams results. Her position in standard & class has improved a lot.)

As for Hannah, she is in K2, final year in kindy. I’ll be getting her exams results this Saturday. Preparation for her exam was easy job (as compared to Alyssa) but quite pressuring for me coz she has been getting perfect scores.

My Wedding Anniversary – Hubby & I went for dinner on the actual day and we exchanged gifts. A special thank you to John & Shang for taking care of our princesses during our night out.

Hannah’s Birthday – Celebrated her birthday with kindy friends during class. I was planning to throw her a party (like what we did for Alyssa when she turned six) but it was too near our holiday trip. So we have to settle for a simple one.

Langkawi Trip – Exactly 10 years ago the same week, hubby and I had our honeymoon in Langkawi. This time round, together with our princesses, we spent 4 days 3 nites in “The Legend Island”. We stayed at Sunset Beach Resort, Pantai Cenang – the most happening place there. Truly a place plenty of small stalls shopping & dining and nice beach. We rented a car at the airport. Practically drove round the whole island…twice, once on day 1 and another time on the final day. The most exciting activity in this trip was Island Hopping. We wanted to go during our last trip but we wrongly booked. A must go also is the Langkawi Cable Car. Awesome, scenic view.
Hubby asked if we should go again to Langkawi in 10 years time. Hmmm....maybe. I am imagining my hubby in polo-T, short pants with belt, pull up socks, sports shoes and wearing a hat & a pair of sunglasses; we’re in a Chinese restaurant and he complaining of the food. But most of the time, he’ll be lying on the beach chairs, sleeping….Haha! I’ll be too fat to walk! Heehee!

Well, I’m looking forward to our Ipoh trip end of this month. Am going to a school reunion. Woohoo!

My teachers say ...

2009-10-22T01:25:00.009+08:00

One day as I was cleaning my car, I over heard a conversation between a mother and a kindergarten teacher. My neighbour is a childcare centre – kindergarten.

The mother has an older son whom now is in primary school. The kindergarten teacher was asking about the boy. She remembered the boy was very naughty and cried for months in the beginning. She was telling how the boy used to disturb other kids and etc.

On the other hand, the mother was trying to defend his son saying some good traits of his son and explaining why he was crying that time. Every negative comment from the kindergarten teacher about the boy, the mother will put in some positive remarks.

Pity the little boy. Perhaps it’s in our Asian culture that we speak and remember more of the bad stuff rather than talking something nice. At least the mother was not our typical ‘mothers’ that are being too modest in praising their children.

I’m glad that Alyssa was remembered as a quiet, sweet girl, also likes to smile. Hannah – all the teachers (even those who did not teach her) tell me she is quiet and a very good girl. Can’t agree on the quiet part but she does her school work very nice and neat.

What will your son’s or daughter’s kindergarten teacher say about your child?

10th Wedding Anniversary

2009-10-16T10:34:00.003+08:00

Date : 16 October 1999

Venue : Community Baptist Church, Petaling Jaya

A day that changed my life.

A day that I committed to a life long relationship.

A day that gave me hopes and aspirations.

A day that started a new chapter of my life.

A day where I was in a beautiful white gown and look pretty (and tall).

I love this day…..

This day, this change, this commitment, this new chapter, gave me many, many fond memories, love and passion. I am a better person both inside and out. Thank you ‘lo kong’ for accepting me, bearing all my ‘sensitive feelings’, hearing all my complains and loving me.

Happy Anniversary!

Run for the Nation 2009

2009-10-15T16:08:00.006+08:00

On 10 Oct 2009, Saturday from 5 o’clock in the morning, some Christians from all states capital of Malaysia had a common purpose that was to RUN and PRAY.

In Klang Valley a total of 25 routes/area groups, each group has 8 teams, each team has 2-6 members, ran approx 5km and pray. I was in Area Group 9 which started from Putrajaya to Petaling Jaya. Although we started at different points but all groups ended at the same venue ie *PJEFC. It was a relay format whereby Team 1 run & pray for 5km and passes the Prayer Card to Team 2 and so on.

We, Team 6 members (4 of us – Patrick, Ronnie, Kent and myself) started running at 8:18am from Sunway Medical Centre. We crossed an interchange at LDP, passed housing areas, shops, light industrial area, dangerous underpass, barking dogs and finally reached our end route. Total of 4.78km at 32 minutes. It was an amazing experience.

We took turns to pray aloud and ran in the drizzle. Many people looked at us. Passers by must be wondering what these 4 fellow doing running on the road and in the rain. It takes a lot of boldness for me to pray so loud (we have to speak loud enough so the rest can hear). When I was training myself, I will not speak a word whenever someone is nearby.

Will I do again….YES, no hesitation.

To God be the glory!

Special thanks to the organisers for fulfilling His call and to my hubby for being our Team Manager.

*PJEFC – Petaling Jaya Evangelical Free Church

Hometown Trips - Muar...Ipoh

2009-09-14T09:41:00.010+08:00

I was looking forward to my trip back to Ipoh as I have not been back since Chinese New Year (end January). But first back to Muar, to my in-laws place.

2nd Mid Term school break (August) - Trip to Muar

Highlight of our this time was plucking duku langsat at a fruit plantation belongs to my mother-in-law's friend. This season has not been raining, so the duku langsat and duku fruits were small and not worth harvesting to sell. We were like small kids taking as many fruits as we can, plucking them and trying to fill our bags. But the bags were never full. We were bitten by mosquitos, insects and ants. Black ants, red ants and huge mosquitos kept following us. Our efforts really got blood & sweat! Next time go prepared with repellent.

Why bags were not full? Thanks to me. I vomitted. Breakfast & lunch all came out fertilising the plants. So we went back to the friend's house to rest...after a while continue another part of the plantation. Just a short time, plucking from duku trees only. I think altogether we managed to pluck not less than 20kgs of duku langsat and duku.

Our trip to Muar is never complete without visiting the famous Tanjung, where you'll find monkeys living in a mangrove by the Muar River. A bridge was built recently towards the river cutting through the mangrove giving you an inside view. Interesting.

Another school break for Alyssa due to UPSR preparation & exams - Trip to Ipoh

An eating trip. (When is back to Ipoh never an eating trip???)

- Dinner at Lou Wong Chicken
- Breakfast at Foh San Dim Sum (new building - cool)

- Lunch - siew yuk (roasted pork) from a van that sells from 2.30 pm at Taman Ipoh Jaya
I also had mum's roasted pork porridge

- Dinner at Kedai Makan dan Minuman Sri Maju that sells beef noodles & lots of fried and stuffed 'liu' (originated from Buntong)

- Breakfast at Sun Chuen Fong that sells curry noddles

- Lunch - mum's bak chang

- Dinner at home - mum's chicken rice (dishes that nite - chicken, steam fish, fried wantan and mixed vege)

- Breakfast - lo mei kei, egg tart

- Lunch - mum's chicken rice (from previous nite) chicken & roasted pork.

......and lots of in between meals....

Travel back to home.....with egg tarts, char siew pau, bak chang, salted chicken and gui ling gao.

me...lost 1 kg from Muar trip but ganied 2 kgs from ipoh trip.

Alyssa is nine oledi

2009-07-23T16:04:00.010+08:00

Wow, time flies! Seems like not long ago I wrote on this page about my precious princess's birthday. A year has passed. I'm glad that I have started a blog. Helps me keep record of important events and happenings. (because I don't write journal or diary and very forgetful)

Alyssa is getting more and more independent and responsible. She helps out in taking care of the toddlers during cell group. Her relationship with her sister has became so close that they had to chat chat first before sleep during most nights. In school, she is more outspoken now and her studies has improved a lot. Go girl! Mummy is so proud of you.

Yesterday, mummy made layered jelly, rich chocolate fudge cake and cook her favourite rosti and cheese sausage.

Ann, this is what daddy and mummy had. Bake salmon with herbs and mixed salad. :)

Are you also migrating?

2009-07-20T10:48:00.005+08:00

My close friend whole family migrated to Melbourne, Australia end last year and another family is also leaving next year. Live at a new place, make new friends and adjust to new surroundings, different weather conditions. Try to make a living in a totally different culture. All for the children's sake, for their education and a better life.

Who can promise a better life? Who can promise your child will excel in their studies? Who can promise that the land you're going to live in is the greener pasture?

My uncle who migrated to Sydney, Australia some 20 over years ago has not came back once to Malaysia. It was a sad case. At first he was cheated in business. Then he has to find source of income. He found a job to distribute 'tim sum' to outlets. After many years of hard work with no off days at all, he finally bought a van and an apartment. He is doing the distributing business on his own now. His wife also has to work.

Over in Malaysia, my uncle was a Marketing Manager in medical products. Wife never work before. Her children was living a good life. In Australia, they struggle so much financially. They had to live in a rented apartment for years. My uncle's son had his degree and now working in a bank. But he developed a kind of stress due to the pressure. His daughter didn't graduate from university and moved out with a man. Sigh!

Nowadays, to migrate is made easier with migrations agents and real estate agents. They handle all aspects in moving from one home to another home, from one land to another foreign land. To me what matters most is who is the main agent in your life and your family. So either living here where I am placed or in a land far away; if God is not the centre in my life and in my family, I will be nothing and totally hopeless.

So whether your destiny is here or somewhere else, remember your faith and remain close to the Almighty One.

Gathering with friends

2009-07-17T14:14:00.019+08:00

Any excuse for a gathering of friends with food & drinks is always good. We just had a one last Sunday evening, a get together for a family who just came back from Perth, Australia (for a holiday).

I personally was not very close to this couple (before they migrated to Australia) but did attend a few gatherings together. Come to think of it, that was like more than 10 years ago, when I was still single and carefree.

Well, now we are all married and have children. It's more meaningful to have gatherings now for parents to reconnect and basically sharing of thoughts and enjoy each others company. For the kids.....it is so much fun.....no need to eat also can.

Foooood............foooooodddddddddd

(The last time we had gathering at the Teoh's residence was in Nov'08)

Kid's table

12 kids (ranging from 1 year - 10 years old)

Pastor enjoying his meal. Check out the dessert.

Two daddy playing with new 'toy' - dictionary. More dessert here.

What a great evening! Got food, dessert and DURIANS! (Sorry Techcrazee - none for you. Not even this - see below!!!!! Hahahahaha!)

Note: Techcrazee was craving for durians but wifey is on confinement. He has to eat durian ice-cream instead to cool down.

School Holiday June 2009

2009-06-16T16:24:00.013+08:00

Two weeks school break is finally over and the kids are back to school and kindy.

Some of the tasks and activities we had during the school holidays were cleaning up their room, wipe their barbie area (and all the tiny kitchen and bedroom sets), homework and revision, watch TV, movies, going to the park behind our house for evening jog and exercise. Sound so boring; here comes the highlight of some special events that took place...

Thursday 4 June

My godsis and her 8 year old son, Jeremy came and stayed with us. Hubby was on leave. We went shopping at Ikano and watch Monsters vs Aliens at Cineleisure while my godsis's hubby attend church conference. Then we all had dinner at our favourite pork knuckle restaurant.

Friday & Saturday 5 & 6 June from 8.30 am - 5.30 pm

Alyssa, Hannah and Jeremy attended Vocasional Bible School (VBS) - 'Discovery Days' at our church CBC, PJ while the adults go shopping at KLCC, buffet lunch at Saisaki, KL on day 1. Day 2 had my favourite fried spaghetti and continue shopping at Ikea and The Curve.

Sunday 7 June

Church closed! Time for Family Day! VBS kids did some presentation and gave testimonies after senior pastor gave a message on parenting. Then we had booth games and telematch in the field.

(Hannah giving testimony - that was prepared by her teacher)

Sis and Jeremy had to go back to Ipoh for few days. Alyssa & Hannah missed playing with Jeremy. They can play non stop!

Wednesday 10 June

Gym in the morning. Then had lunch with my ex-colleagues. Alyssa got her eye check and a new pair of glasses.

Friday 12 June
My in laws came and stayed for 4 days. Eat & shop again. Oh! my mother in law brought me durians! It was yummy. Had them everyday, all 4 days. Brrrp!

(container was full of durians) (another container , 1st layer gone)

Saturday 13 June

Wedding of a friend, Hui See at Dream Centre, PJ and dinner at Noble Banquet, KL.

Time to start back my workout routine and eating low calories meals. Sigh! Coz gotto say goodbye to feasting. Yeah! Not gaining pounds.

"When you thought I wasn't looking"

2009-05-30T11:25:00.011+08:00

A message every adult should read because children are watching you

and doing as you do, not as you say.