♥ Gabrielle & Caelan ♥

A Trip to Nex

2011-06-28T15:01:00.005+08:00

Meet up with the cousins for lunch at Nex, decided to go to Swensens.. since the older kids had their lunch in school so it's snack time for them. Ordered fries and ice cream for them to share.

After lunch it's playtime at the roof-top playground. But the time here was cut short as there were quite a number of older uniformed kids who were playing quite rough so we decided to go off. And find alternative activity for the kids to do...

Found this art work station, so decided to let them do. The 2 little brothers felts a bit left out cos we didn't let them try. Thank God they were happily munching on some snacks while the older ones are attempting to do their art work.

Disney On Ice (20Mar2011)

2011-06-28T14:49:00.007+08:00

Mcqueen Car...

The Little Mermaid

The Lion King

Tinkerbell

Brought the kids for the Disney On Ice show on the last day of the March holidays. We were slightly late for the show, missed a little of the Cars performance. But other than that, it was fun for the kids, especially the older ones.

Gabby was being 'introduced' to Tinkerbell and her fairy friends... and after this show, managed to get the Tinkerbell cartoon for her and she likes it a lot. Always wanting to watch the cartoon, even her little brother likes to watch it with her too.

With the show, the March holidays has come to an end. I hope the kids had some fun together during these couple of meet-ups... I'm sure they going to miss one another in the months to come.

A Trip to The Zoo (15Mar2011)

2011-06-28T14:39:00.005+08:00

Rented wagons for the kids

Playing with the wagon during lunch

At the playground

Brought the kids to the zoo during the March holidays for 1 last time before April comes... the kids had fun as usual...

It'll be some time before the kids can go to the zoo together again.

Mars Needs Moms Preview

2011-03-08T00:43:00.008+08:00

Invited by Klessis to watch a Disney 3D movie preview screening for bloggers. I left the little boy with grandma and brought my gal for the show, so that we can spend some time together. She was quite excited as this is actually the 1st 3D movie that she is going to, mine 1st too!

Other than some cryings from the kids, personally I feel that the show is quite heart-warming about the little boy not appreciating his mom until she was taken away by Martians. Being a mom, watching this movie makes me feel even more, to appreciate my mom more. I teared at a couple of scenes but on the whole the movie ended on a happy note.

Though I quite enjoyed the movie, but I feel it's not really for kids around Gabby's age. She cried in the movie, was scared by the Martians especially one in particular, the Supervisor. Probably it's her looks and tone of voice that she kept using throughout the movie that scares my little gal.

We were joking.. "So we shouldn't listen to our moms, because the Martians will take them away if the kids are too well-behaved!"

You will never know how much your mom is doing for you in the house until you are about to lose her!! Things like tugging you in bed; making a hot cocoa; reading to you; cooks for you; vacuum the floor... they may be little things but... Appreciate your moms and thank God for her!!!

Walking With Dinosaurs (051210)

2011-03-04T04:10:00.001+08:00

Crying before the show starts

She was slightly influenced by Raenen with his learning about dinosaurs in school and her mama, I was interested in catching the show. So last Dec, we bought tickets and brought the kids (Gabby & Raenen) for Walking with Dinosaurs.

Before the show started, Gabby got scared by the music being played and started crying uncontrollably. Tried to calm her down but to no avail. She said she's tired and wanted to take her nap in SIS. Reluctantly said 'yes' to her due to high price of ticket going to waste if she sleeps.

But when the show starts, surprisingly, she took an interest and open her eyes... and nothing can stop her... She enjoyed the show tremendously!!! And learning the names of the dinosaurs from Raenen.

I'm really glad that she enjoyed the show throughout!!

Swimming Time (161010)

2010-12-31T15:04:00.007+08:00

The kids had a dip in the pool at 姨姨's place in the morning after Gabby's sleepover. They had a lot of fun including Raemus who had 阿公 with him all the while in the water.

Fun-Tasy Year End Party

2010-12-17T16:28:00.004+08:00

Gabby was down with a slight fever since last night but she still insisted of going to school for the year end party this morning.

I dropped Gabby off in the school for the gathering of kids and hang around the vicinity before the party starts at 10am. Was actually excited and looking forward to see her on stage to perform.

The performance kicked off by the 2YOs with the fashion show. Kids were shocked to see so many parents who were much eager, 'armed' with cameras and snapping away. But most of them did fantastic on the stage for a 2YO.

Then came Gabby's class, biggest among all other classes. They performed 拔箩 and L.O.V.E. 3YOs were appalled by the audience too including my little gal. Some did overcome their fear and perform their best on the stage for the parents to see. Performance continued with the other classes... Bravo to their courage to speak into the microphone and to sing and dance on stage.

It was a joyful time for the kids and the parents. We are all so proud of the kids!!

Junior Science Class

2010-12-04T02:25:00.004+08:00

I signed Gabby up in LH for a Junior Science programme during the last quarter of school year. Though it's only a 45 minute class, but I believed that she has enjoyed the activities that she's doing during the class. Being exposed to topics like wind, water, air and sun and etc., it can be quite interesting for a 3yo.

Universal Studios Singapore

2010-11-10T04:11:00.003+08:00

On a Friday night, we joined 婆婆 & 阿公 together with their members, we went to the Universal Studios Singapore to watch the fireworks.

It was my first time to the place and everything was just wow wow wow! Gabby went with the grandparents 2 weeks ago to watch the fireworks too but she was scared by the Halloween mascot characters that 婆婆 called me to calm her down from her wailing.

The ticket only allows us to walk and dine in the theme park, the rides are closed at night. We walked around, took some shots and bought chips while waiting for the fireworks show to start. Caelan got scared by the loudness of the fireworks. But on the whole we enjoyed ourselves for the short night out.

Chestervale Gathering (311010)

2010-11-04T04:07:00.003+08:00

Last swim @ Chestervale

Kids busy themselves playing iPod, iPhone & pretend play

Celebrating Daryl & Uncle Bens' birthday

We organised a gathering at Uncle Ben's place for a time of swim & steamboat before they moved out of Chestervale in 2 weeks time.

I still remember vividly that me & Vivien used to stay with them for a couple of months many years back when parents' current flat was under renovation. Time flies and now it's time to move on :)

The kids had a short dip in the pool and they had so much fun. Steamboat dinner table was spread out with lots and lots of food waiting for us.. I personally ate quite a bit especially the BBQ ones.. Yum yum!

Celebrated Daryl and Uncle Bens' birthday after the dinner, coincidentally their birthdays were just 1 day apart. Singing the birthday song and blowing the candles are the highlights for the kids and they did blow the candles before the birthday boys could do it. :)

Loved such gatherings!! Next will be another one at their new place??!! *Hint*

Deepavali Celebration (041110)

2010-11-04T03:43:00.001+08:00

LH had their Deepavali celebration a day before the actual day. The kids were introduced to things like the meaning of the festival, what do the Indians do during festival, the food and things that are related to the festival. Teachers and some kids are donned in Indian costumes and it really does bring up the atmosphere.

Children's Day Celebration

2010-10-10T04:00:00.002+08:00

I brought the kids to Children's Church Children's day party at Expo along with Iris & Vivien. The kids enjoyed themselves during the P&W, dancing and singing and playing with the light sticks. Even Caelan enjoyed himself.

There's magic show which is funny and easily understood by the kids. And of course a word shared by Pastor Eileen through some skits brought by the teachers.

Children's Church had really put in a lot of effort for the services and also in busing in the children for the services. Kudos to their effort and they are simply awesome and the kids enjoyed tremendously.

Children's Day

2010-10-10T03:30:00.000+08:00

Due to Children's day approaching, Learning Horizon has organised a picnic for the kids at Pasir Ris park. I have been telling Gabby to pray for good weather every night for the upcoming outing as the last one to Hort park was cancelled due to rain.

Gabby got up early in the morning all excited to go to school knowing that she's able to go outing with all her friends. Parents are not required to go with the kids and they are happier without a parent around. Just them with the teachers and the vast space for them to run around.

Gabby told me she enjoyed herself except that the rain came halfway through their outing. Well, at least they had some fun before the rain comes. =)

Daddy & Us

2010-10-10T03:22:00.001+08:00

Daddy was clearing his leave before he's due to fly off for work for a few months. We got to spend more time with Daddy and he brought us out after school almost everyday.

We are definitely going to miss Daddy... missing him dearly.

Baby Walda

2010-10-10T03:15:00.000+08:00

Baby Walda

Family photo

We went to 姨婆's place for baby Walda's full month celebration. She's such a sweet little cutie pie. A new family member into our extended family...

Lantern Festival (220910)

2010-10-10T02:59:00.002+08:00

Carrying lantern in the park

Playing with sparkles at void deck

We brought the kids to one of the parks in AMK for them to carry their candlelit and battery operated lanterns. We walked around the park for a while before the kids got bored and wanted to do other stuff. And we decided to make way to mum's place to play with sparkles after chancing upon some adults who were playing with them in the park.

They have more fun playing with the sparkles at the void deck than perspiring while walking their lanterns in the park. We had mooncakes with coke (to cool down from all the walking) while the kids had fun playing with the sparkles for the first time.

Simple Toy

2010-10-10T02:51:00.000+08:00

I was clearing some stuff from the store room and Caelan found this box to be of some use. This box kept him busy for quite some time and he's happy even with a simple toy like an empty carton box.

Raemus Turns 1YO!!

2010-10-10T01:19:00.002+08:00

We celebrated Raemus' 1st birthday cum house warming at 姨姨's new place, Sunshine on 15 Aug. It was a small yet heart-warming family gathering where both the familes came together for a great makan and chit-chatting time.

Food was ordered from Qi Ji and Raenen chose the racing car cake for his little brother. The kids had so much fun playing with balloons and Super Mario on wii and ransacking every inch of Raenen's room full of toys.

It was almost 10pm when we called it a night as the older kids have school the next day and it's back to work for most adults.

Picnic @ Barage (090810)

2010-10-10T00:01:00.011+08:00

National Day = Family day

This year, we went to Marina Barage for picnic. 婆婆 bought all the food and we just prepared the cold drinks. It was a very good day for kite flying and we bought a small Toy Story kite for the kids to fly. But it turned out, they were only into kite flying for the whole 5 minutes. In the end, it was the Daddies who were flying the kite.

After a hearty meal of chicken wings, nasi lemak, fried bee hoon... the kids were off for the water play which is their highlight for the picnic. All 4 of them had such enormous fun playing with the water and I must say its good fun and it's FREE.

Day ended when Daddy had enough of kite flying and the kids had played in the water for a long time, apparently, never quite enough for them. We left the place around early afternoon so that we can all go home to catch a nap before turning up at 婆婆's house for the 2nd round of chilli crabs feasting while watching the NDP 2010 in the comfort of our home...

Marina Barage

2010-10-09T12:25:00.005+08:00

Just a couple of pictures that I took while we were at Marina Barage... where's Daddy? Busy himself with flying kite =)

My Little Tarzan

2010-10-04T02:46:00.001+08:00

This little boy loves to try to take off his pyjamas/shirt whenever he can. But usually he's only able to do it for 1 side. And he's good at it especially with this set of pj. See his victory sign when I asked him to pose for a picture. Adorable boy!!

Wind

2010-09-18T15:27:00.001+08:00

Gabby's science craft work... A 'crown' with streamers. They are learning about wind this month.

- Posted using Mummy's iPhone

The Zoo (060910)

2010-09-09T00:14:00.002+08:00

Tree mascot that kids were all scared

All ready to set off in wagon

!st stop... Cheetah enclosure

Raenen trying to pull the wagon

Lunch @ KFC before waterplay

Gabby having fun

Caelan loving the water

Beatrice trying her water shooter

Raenen getting all ready

All getting wet

Parents taking shade

Feeding time

Failed attempt of group photo

We went to the zoo during the September school holidays with 婆婆's company zoo card, this time round we miss 姨姨& Raemus as the little boy is running a fever but we have 姨姨Iris & Beatrice and 阿公.

And it was our 1st time renting the wagon for the kids to sit in. They were all excited and they took turns to sit with each kid in the wagon throughout the trip. It was the most tiring zoo trip for the adults as we have to take turns to pull the wagons and we didn't buy the tram ticket. Tired tired tired...

It was a wonderful time spent with the kids and they've really enjoyed themselves.

Gabby with 郭老师

2010-09-08T16:02:00.001+08:00

郭老师 is leaving Gabby's school to go back to China, last Thurs was her last day in school & Gabby requested to take a picture with 老师.

Gabby told me the night before that she's sad that 郭老师 is leaving.

Hope she can adapt to the new 老师 when school reopens next wk.

- Posted from Mummy's iPhone

Racial Harmony Carnival

2010-08-03T01:23:00.005+08:00

Gabby's school organised a small carnival in conjunction with the Racial Harmony last Friday. I got her dressed up in a borrowed cheongsam and plaited her hair.. she looked all ready for the carnival.

She had fun playing with the Malay drums, having Henna done and spent most of her coupons eating 茶叶蛋, which she enjoyed the most. =)

Water Play @ Vivo

2010-08-03T01:17:00.003+08:00

CG having dinner at Vivocity, so I decided to bring the kids there early to let them play in water. They had so much fun esp Caelan which was his first playing at Vivo. Loved it!!

Advance Motor Skills??

2010-08-03T01:12:00.004+08:00

While all lights are off and the little boy trying to fall asleep on the bed... realised that he was sat up after a while... I turned on the lights. I found him like this... he was so happy, able to take out his pj all by himself!!

McDonalds

2010-07-20T01:06:00.001+08:00

Told her to go get a packet of fries... she really went and place order and came back with a packet of fries... She was so proud of herself!! I was proud of her too =)

The Siblings

2010-07-06T01:03:00.001+08:00

Gabby was trying to tie Caelan's hair... ended up taking some photos together. Caelan's eyes were glued to the TV though.

Fellowship @ T2

2010-07-04T00:44:00.000+08:00

The little gal requested to have a photo taken with the plants...

The little boy was totally bored during dinner @ Soup Restaurant during dinner... Daddy's last resort, iPhone... he was so engrossed into the cartoon, Garfield for that 5-10mins.

Pixar Exhibition

2010-07-03T03:18:00.000+08:00

Brought the kids to the Pixar exhibition at Science Center during the June holidays... it's a little too much for the little girl but she had fun walking though, looking at the familiar figurines from the cartoons. One of their favourite and mine too has to be the Toy Story zoetrope, I was very fascinated by it.

New Haircut

2010-07-03T00:23:00.000+08:00

While Gabby went for her playdate, I went for a long-awaited haircut... quite satisfied with the cut but... contemplating of cutting it shorter... we'll see...

Playdate

2010-07-03T00:07:00.000+08:00

婆婆 brought Gabby out on a Saturday afternoon to her colleague's place for a playdate with her girl, Kathleen. They had a pizza-making session which Gabby is simply not interested, mostly spending her time playing with Kathleen's toys. Well the grass is always greener on the other side, someone else's toys are always more fun than their own.

Gabby didn't want to leave when it's time to, since she had so much fun playing with Playdoh. 婆婆had to call me to talk to Gabby... She had so much fun!! I'm sure Kathleen had fun too. She's looking forward to meeting Kathleen again.

The Zoo (220610)

2010-07-02T23:47:00.002+08:00

Together with 婆婆, I brought the kids to The Zoo during the holidays. It was a fun time and we enjoyed ourselves totally especially the kids at the Kidzworld. Thanks to a friend recommending Photovisi, tried it out myself, quite fun =)

My Pretty Boy

2010-07-01T22:58:00.003+08:00

Caelan wanted me to help him put on the hairband and was happily letting me take photos of him... Here's my pretty boy. 姨姨commented that he looks like Gabby. I think from certain angle, he does look like his big sister, the younger Gabby who got not much hair.

A New Member

2010-07-01T22:52:00.002+08:00

Her name is Charlotte, a new inclusion into the Chan family. Gabby's 姑姑 bought a puppy. Never had a dog myself.. but am sure it'll bring some fun to the kids, other than playing with toys, they can play with her and overcome the little fear they have towards animals. =)

Shoes

2010-07-01T22:44:00.004+08:00

We accompanied 婆婆&阿公 shopping during one of the nights, to get some stuff for 阿公. While he was trying out shoes, my little princess was trying out the sneakers too. Telling me that she likes the sneakers and that she has outgrown the one she had... *hint hint* She wants me to buy, told her I'll tell Daddy about it when we get back.

Being a gal, I have no problem asking Gabby to try out clothes or shoes at departmental store, she's always try them on very gladly. Not sure will Caelan be like her too... knowing that my nephew, Raenen doesn't like to try clothes or shoes.

Father's Day Gift

2010-07-01T22:41:00.002+08:00

Gabby made these for her beloved Daddy this year as Father's day gift. I'm sure Daddy will be so happy to receive them from her little darling. =)

Cat

2010-07-01T22:30:00.004+08:00

I brought Gabby & Caelan to the show CAT put up by JG and Orchard Forum just before her school holidays. Managed to get the free pass 30 min before show time, and settled well into the sitting area with them both.

Well, Caelan was taking his nap throughout the show, sad that he has missed it. But am sure I will bring him to such shows in the future.

Gabby was quite excited about catching the show... but throughout most part of the show, she kept telling me she's scared. She was scared of the characters, didn't really enjoy that much as compared to The Green Sheep that we caught the last holidays.

Personally I was impressed by the actor and actresses, they were the same people who put up The Green Sheep, coming all the way from the Aussie land. It was based on a very simple book, Cat and the story is very simple, easy to be understood by the young ones.

Honeymoon Dessert

2010-06-26T04:22:00.002+08:00

Went to this dessert house at Vivocity after dinner with CG, tried their Mango Toufu and Durian pancake. The place was crowded and got to queue for tables. Desserts served were not bad but personally felt that the price on a higher side, e.g. Durian pancake is $4.50.

The Sun & The Sea

2010-06-26T03:50:00.003+08:00

A day out in the sun and sea... We brought them to Sentosa for a day out... the 2 kiddos were so happy and excited. Played in the sea water and tried to build some sand castles. The weather was really hot and they got so tan after a while.

Both knocked out on the way home... Daddy & Mummy knocked out too when our head hit the bed. It was a very good time spent with the kids. I Love it!!

姐姐's Bag Again

2010-06-25T02:00:00.002+08:00

If you know what I mean, he's always after Gabby's bag... especially when she returns from school and leave her bag on her study table, he'll come like a shark!! =)

Boy Boy Boy...

2010-06-25T01:43:00.003+08:00

This boy can worked up my nerves some time... recently found him climbed up Gabby's chest drawers. The draw for him is Gabby's rubber bands and hair clips... just don't understand why he's so fascinated with his sister's stuff.

Pictures taken when he climbed the 2nd time, I was terrified the 1st time I saw him so high up there. Well, 2nd climb came only minutes later when I carried him down and left him in her room.

Mummy, I'm Tired

2010-06-25T01:34:00.004+08:00

This is what the little boy will do when he's tired after a full meal, letting me know that he's tired and time for his nap...

Hello Who's There?

2010-06-25T01:20:00.002+08:00

Cute little boy... Hello hello who's there? Pretending to be calling someone, imitating us adults =D

Daddy's Retreat

2010-06-25T01:01:00.003+08:00

Daddy had a 3 days Battalion retreat at Aloha Changi. We had the opportunity to go to the chalet on the last night for some BBQ. I brought the 2 kids there in the late afternoon, went for a swim and a little play time at its small indoor playground while waiting for Daddy to finish up their discussion.

The kids had a fun time, Gabby got all sweat up playing soccer ball and running around with Uncle Weiliang. They were all knocked out after changing them and made our way home before bed time and Daddy got to rush back to the chalet for meeting after sending us home... =)

He Loves Bags

2010-06-25T00:53:00.002+08:00

Caelan loves bags, especially Gabby's bags... He simply loves taking her bags, open up the zip and take out all the things and walk around with her bag.

Loves The Car

2010-06-25T00:14:00.004+08:00

Caelan loves this car, it's actually a gift 'from' him to Gabby when he came into the world... =) He loves to get into it and pretend to drive and press the buttons on the steering wheel, can't wait for him to master driving... It'll be more fun for Gabby too!!

Yakult Factory Tour

2010-06-16T01:54:00.003+08:00

Me & the boy

My little gal (while waiting for bus)

Lactobacillus casei Shirota strain (my friend??)

Different Yakult bottles from around the world

At the presentation room with the Yakult mascot

We are the earliest!!

She with the old grandfather clock

Us with the giant Yakult

I decided to bring Gabby for the Yakult factory tour since she loves the drink and thought of introducing her to how her fav drink was being produced.

We rose early in the morning, got ready and took a bus to the factory. We are quite early for the tour and we explored the room a little before the students from a tuition center came. Well, Gabby got all excited when she saw the bottles of yakult on the table and we have 3 bottles, one for each attendee incl Caelan =) Let Caelan had his first taste of Yakult, he didn't really take to it after 2-3 sips and I finished it.

The first part of presentation was rather boring for a 3yo, the lady explained about the probiotics in the drink, the amount of probiotics in the drink, the level of sugar and etc. and answered questions that the kids have. Then there's a cartoon clip for the kids to watch, about the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacillus that is good for our body and their functions.

Followed after is a plant tour of their production line from the making of the yakult bottles right to the packing of the yakult and ready for transport to the supermarkets.

It was an enjoyable trip for us trio, each had different experience. Gabby had a glimpse of the making process which she was quite fascinated, Caelan had his first taste of the drink... as for me, I got all aquainted with the microbiology side of the drink which is what I do previously... the terms used, the QC lab we saw... all so familiar once again. =)

It was a fruitful trip!!

Gabby's Sick

2010-05-28T01:50:00.000+08:00

Gabby got sick during AC Conference, was worried for her as her fever came back suddenly after 1st day of conference. Thank God she was alright and the fever didn't come back again.

Chilling Out

2010-05-25T00:23:00.000+08:00

Had an early Mother's day dinner with the Chan family at East Coast, we decided to chill out for a little while at the lounge with some of the family. First time for Gabby & Caelan at a lounge with live band... they were fascinated by the band onstage.

Daddy's Birthday!!

2010-05-15T01:30:00.001+08:00

We had dinner @ Sakae sushi Wheelock Place then we went walking around ION Orchard cos Daddy said he hasn't been there. We then bought a cake (Spike D) from Big O Cafe, to celebrate Daddy's birthday which is coming up in few days' time.

Just Us!!

Spike D

Daddy & his 2 darlings

Sang Daddy a birthday song before the kids turn in for bed... The kids and I had a wonderful day spent with Daddy before he flys off next week and will be away for 2 weeks...

Twins!!

2010-05-15T01:23:00.000+08:00

W323 welcomes our FIRST pair of non-identical twins, Theophilus & Theodora. Born on 10 May 2010 to the proud first-time Daddy & Mummy, WB & Dorcas.

We went to visit them at the hospital, was so excited to meet them finally after 9 months =) Well, the boy looks like Daddy and the gal looks like Mummy... Gabby 'got' them both a small gift and she was so excited to give them the toy when we reached the ward.

So happy for WB and Dorcas... :D

Crayon Shin-chan

2010-05-15T01:16:00.000+08:00

While waiting in the car for Gabby, Caelan playing with one of his fav soft toy... Crayon Shin-chan (蜡笔小新). He always smiles when he sees him and will play with him for a while before he gets bored of him and throw him on the floor... That's my little boy!!

Daddy With Beco

2010-05-15T01:10:00.003+08:00

This is Daddy's first time carrying Caelan with the Beco carrier... Woohoo!! A load off me for a while =)

Mother's Day Gifts

2010-05-13T03:40:00.002+08:00

This year I received a few Mother's day gift from my little girl, either she made it in school or in church. I was really touched by the little gestures though they do not cost a single cent but they are very precious to me. She made the card and gave it to me on Friday and have been wishing me 'Happy Mother's Day' since then. She just stopped saying it last night. She is such an adorable and sweet girl...

It's always fun to have her around and I enjoy my motherhood with my 2 little ones tremendously. Nothing can take their place in my heart. I love you both, Gabby & Caelan.

家香面

2010-05-13T03:31:00.003+08:00

家香家香家香面面面.... We had our first try at this Sarawak noodle, 家香面, at Vivocity. The noodle was quite nice, something like the usual 叉烧面 and their fried wanton were very crispy and good. Gabby enjoyed her noodles and fair share of the fried wanton.

My Greenbeans

2010-05-13T03:25:00.004+08:00

Gabby came back from school that day with a plastic cup filled with wet cotton wool and some green beans... a little project she can call her own. She was very excited to show me what she had done in school and I told her, we'll put in more water to let the green beans grow.

By the next day, one sprout has broken through the bean, and Gabby was so excited and said that she wants to show Daddy. Few days down, the beans kept on growing taller and taller.

Great-Grandma's Birthday

2010-05-13T03:19:00.003+08:00

It was Labour Day, usually we will 'celebrate' Great-grandma's birthday by having a little family gathering and this year is no exception.

It was a simple lunch buffet at 舅公's place, no cake but a simple gathering where we can spend time and chat and catch-up with the cousins. Of course with the few great-grandchildren, a lot of attention are on them... these 6 little chipmunks with 2 more on their way. =)

The Botanical Gardens

2010-05-13T03:12:00.004+08:00

Gabby's school has organised a fieldtrip to The Botanical Gardens in conjunction with the theme this term 'The Garden City'. As parents are required to go so I got no choice but to bring Caelan along. It was a hot and sunny day and a great time to get out of the usual classroom and get down and dirty.

Gabby enjoyed the most from feeding bread to the fishes in the pond, courtesy of Lucas' sandwiches. With the little one tagged along, I didn't have the chance to participate in the game with Gabby, so she ended up not able to play.

But on the whole, she did enjoy herself and requesting if she can go back to The Botanical gardens again... with her friends!!!

Growing Up Caelan

2010-05-13T03:03:00.004+08:00

10 Month Old

11 Month Old

12 Month Old

Very outdated post, so I decided to put them all together... realised that Gabby is very much chubby when she was young. However, Caelan has lost abit of his chubbiness in his face, his face is looking sharper compared to when he's still a baby.

KTV Kids

2010-04-20T01:59:00.002+08:00

We went KTV with some CG members after Service on Saturday night, together with the 2 kids. They were very good, both fell asleep around 11plus with no struggles coming from Caelan. Gabby fell asleep when Lady Gaga's Bad Romance was being sung... all songs became lullaby instantly... This marked Gabby's 3rd time to KTV and Caelan's 2nd =)

Moustache Girl

2010-04-20T01:56:00.002+08:00

Enjoyed her chocolate swiss roll during CG fellowship, simply licked off the chocolate but left me the swiss roll tainted with all her saliva... so sweet of her =P

Gabby's Birthday Part II

2010-04-20T01:34:00.007+08:00

Had a cozy and simple family dinner at Sakura buffet restaurant to celebrate Gabby's birthday, the place was so unexpectedly packed on a weekday night. She's a little tired due to not enough rest but lighted up a little when Raenen arrived and was excited when we sing her birthday song at the end of the dinner.

On the whole, Gabby has enjoyed herself the whole day since morning... long, tired but a very FULFILLING day to have celebrated Gabby's birthday and made her happy. Hope she had enjoyed her day as much as Daddy & Mummy & Caelan had.

Happy Birthday Gabby!!! We love you very very much. May you continue to grow and glow as you grow up under our care and pray that God will continue to watch over you as you learn to walk in His ways. Thank you for the fabulous and marvelous 3 years of tears and joy and laughter that you have brought into our lives!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

At Burger King

2010-04-20T01:15:00.006+08:00

Caelan still sleeping

Eating some snacks

Playing with the 'cones' signage

While waiting for Daddy at BK, Gabby got herself busy playing with the cone signages that were lying near the basin area... she lined them up horizontally and vertically, pretty straight indeed. Then we settle for some fries and pie before we head home to shower and rest before the family dinner.

Day Out At East Coast

2010-04-20T01:07:00.004+08:00

After the birthday celebration in school, we decided to bring Gabby for a time of cycling, in fact it's her first time and our first with the kids. We rented 2 bikes with baby seat and had a great time cycling along East Coast park, it was sunny but felt good with the breeze blowing into our face as we cycle along.

Had great fun cycling for almost 2 hours (bum abit sore though) and Caelan fell asleep in the baby seat towards the end of the journey. We headed off to Burger King for some snacks before heading home to rest.

Gabby's Birthday Part I

2010-04-20T00:49:00.003+08:00

Gabby giving out the cake

We bought a cake and celebrated Gabby's birthday with her little friends in school on her actual day. She was quite shy when we sing her birthday song as all the attention is on her... took us a while to get her to blow the candles...

But can see that she was very happy to celebrate with her little friends and her friends are all excited about the whole thing, and of course they were very excited when I gave them the little gift pack on their way out of classroom after class.

Attempting to Drink

2010-04-20T00:43:00.004+08:00

I didn't really make an effort to teach him to hold his bottle to drink water, seen here Caelan's attempting to drink from the bottle. One problem is he doesn't know that he has to tilt the bottle in order to drink, so when I tilt for him, he'll naturally let go of his hands... =P

Bear & The Chicken

2010-04-20T00:21:00.006+08:00

Left Caelan with my mum in the morning and brought Gabby for the Bear and Chicken get ready for school Play at DBS Arts Centre. I bought the tickets only the day before and managed to get quite a good seats for us both.

I was actually very excited to go to the Play with her as I felt it's great to be able to spend some quality time with her, just the 2 of us. This is actually the first time that we went out since Caelan was born.

She was all excited for the Play too, both went not knowing what to expect. I believe she had a great time watching the Play, asking me questions when she doesn't understand and I enjoyed watching the Play with her.

I want to go for more of these activities with her in the future... Love it!!!

Playdoh Party Time

2010-03-29T20:40:00.004+08:00

Alex's favourite = Thomas the Train

The A's family

Play-doh time

Caelan riding on a car (favourite toy in the house)

With party hats

Celebrated Alexander's 2YO birthday last weekend together with his many other little frens at their place. Both Gabby and Caelan had much fun playing with the kids and Alex's toys... Gabby's party pack is a container with some play-doh and she was so excited.

Ice-Cream Time

2010-03-29T20:28:00.002+08:00

Went for some ice cream with the members after dinner at Astons (SIA Sports club) after Sat SVC. Gabby had a great time trying some of the flavours available at Haagen Dazs.

Picture taken by Gabby

First-Ever Haircut

2010-03-29T20:19:00.003+08:00

Gabby getting her First-Ever haircut at a salon that I used to frequent. Find her hair at the back a little messy and her fringe touching her eyebrows, so bring her for a trim. I think will let her hair grow long and will cut her fringe myself when it gets long.

Guitar

2010-03-29T20:13:00.003+08:00

Caelan is very much interested in the guitar as well... Caelan musically-incline??? =)

赞美主

2010-03-29T17:25:00.002+08:00

Gabrielle praising God with her new guitar... and she requested me to buy her a guitar pick.

Conquering The Sofa

2010-03-29T17:16:00.002+08:00

Seen here... Caelan conquering the sofa. He's been getting better at climbing up and coming down from the sofa day by day. Now if you want to carry him down from the sofa, he'll crawl away from you real fast so that you can't catch hold of him. Aren't the kids smart? They know what to do to escape even when we have never teach them how to do it!!

What They Doin'

2010-03-29T17:13:00.003+08:00

Hmmm... not really sure what were we doing in the room with them sitting on the floor... =P

Wedding

2010-03-29T17:08:00.003+08:00

My pretty little princess is ready to go for a church wedding with 阿公and 婆婆. Missed her when she was gone for the whole afternoon, until I see her in church in the evening.

Just Before Bedtime

2010-03-29T16:47:00.004+08:00

Having fun with Daddy's bolster

Smiley Caelan

Gabby pretending riding on a horse

Random shots of the kids before turning in for the night... have always enjoyed this time with them!! They are simply adorable and it's a great way to end the long day...

讲华语

2010-03-26T22:39:00.000+08:00

Growing up in a Chinese-speaking family, I have not much of a problem learning Chinese and speaking mandarin during school days but have never liked the subject. I practically stopped learning Cinese when I went on to Poly and Uni where Chinese is not required of me.

I have never thought that Chinese language may pose a problem to Gabby when she started school because I've heard that kids pick up language skills very easily. It was only when Gabby started Nursery 1 this year, and that I've seen with my own eyes how she dislike interacting with her Chinese teacher on the very first day of school that got me worried. She had literally ignored or run away from the Chinese teacher.

Recently, I got invited by a friend to attend a Learning Bloggers Parenting Forum organised by Julia Gabriel. The topic to be discussed is 'Helping your child learning Mandarin'.

Alongside with a few parent bloggers, we met Fiona Walker, CEO of Julia Gabriel Centre for Learning and Huang Ying, Head of Mandarin Department. Their purpose of the forum is to find out our concerns when it comes to Mandarin and our child(ren).

It was really enjoyable to hear them sharing about their personal experiences with their children learning Chinese and the struggles they faced at home and in school. For example, Huang Ying speaks only Mandarin to her child and he thought that mummy couldn't speak English AT ALL (which was not true). And Fiona's daughter speaks fluent Mandarin and has great interest in Chinese which is something that her parents know nothing about. And the little girl is very proud of her achievements.

It was really a great time spent with Fiona and Huang Ying, not only do we touch on Mandarin issues, they gave some parenting advice as well. What do you expect of your child? To be an A's student in both languages or you are ok that your child can converse in mandarin. One need to spend as much time on English and Chinese if you expect your child to be good in both languages. However, every child is different and has different abilities.

Personally, I do not want to force Chinese on my children and ends up having them hating Chinese all their life. For now, I'm perfectly fine if they can converse with their grandparents in Mandarin without any mix of English words.

Ipod Vs Iphone

2010-03-09T00:05:00.002+08:00

Father & daughter seriously at work (play??) while waiting for our food @ Astons. =P

I Clap My Hands

2010-03-09T00:03:00.003+08:00

Caelan has learnt how to clap his hands and he's been doing great at it and gladly does it when you tell him to or when you sing "If you happy and you know it, clap your hands." :)

Caelan Climbing

2010-03-08T23:57:00.003+08:00

Caelan has mastered the skills of climbing onto the coffee table at 婆婆's place and he can literally keep doing it throughout when we are at 婆婆's house. Now is to teach him how to come down from the table the right way... he likes to plunge down head first.

Now he will climb up and down my bed, had even done a few times climbing up Gabby's bed but always get him to come down immediately as Gabby's bed is higher than our bed and not sure if he can handle coming down from that height... constantly got to keep an eye on him. His next target is climbing up our sofa!

CNY Day 3

2010-03-08T23:50:00.003+08:00

Started Day 3 with Dim Sum at Peach Garden restaurant Thomson Plaza, great time together with the family...

Then we went to Max & Karens' place for a time of fellowship with the CG members, relaxing day. That ends the few days of CNY celebration and it's back to work and school tomorrow...

CNY Day 2

2010-03-08T23:38:00.004+08:00

Today's 2nd day of Chinese New Yr but Daddy got called back to work last night, so it's only me and the 2 kids. Thank God 阿公 is driving his taxi today, so at least we can hitch a ride and just go visitations wherever they go.

Thank you, Uncle Brian for helping me with Caelan (play with him and simply just being around him) during the visitations at 干婆婆 and 姨婆's house and surprised that Caelan is very OK with Uncle Brian. =)

Day 2 visitations ended when Daddy came to pick us from 婆婆's place.

CNY Day 1

2010-02-24T01:18:00.001+08:00

First day of Chinese New Year... supposed to head to 婆婆's house first before going to 舅公's house but we were late so went to the latter's place first... then proceeded to 婆婆's place, managed to snap some family photos... then it's a day of eating and merry-making. Gabby is especially happy to go around and eat the peanuts or pistachio nuts that were offered.

Ended the day's visitations at 姑婆's house. Tired tired tired...

Chinese New Year Eve

2010-02-23T23:17:00.001+08:00

Every year, we have reunion lunch @ 婆婆's house and this year is no exception. We had the usual BBQ cum steamboat. Then after a sumptuous lunch was a ad hoc lion dance performance put up by Raenen & Gabby. They were so funny that we were all laughing away... =)

Then they helped 婆婆 peel the pomelo and had some fun playing with the thick skin... Great to kick off the New Year celebrations for the next few days... 恭喜发财!!!

Artworks

2010-02-23T00:56:00.004+08:00

Managed to get some shots of Gabby's artworks in her class room while I was there for the CNY celebration... the teachers have pasted the kids' artworks on the walls in the room... nice!! =)

CNY Celebration

2010-02-23T00:50:00.003+08:00

Gabby's school had a small CNY celebration on Friday, all kids are donned in Chinese traditional clothes and having fun in the Music room. I didn't planned to stay but seeing many parents stayed behind, I hang around too.

The older kids put up a mini performance for the little ones and parents... and there was some time for the kids to try the new year goodies brought by some kids... Gabby enjoyed herself eating the new yr goodies... and enjoying her time with her school friends.

My Dearests

2010-02-23T00:41:00.003+08:00

On our way to 婆婆's house for Reunion Lunch... yummy steamboat, here we come!!

Miss Piggy

2010-02-23T00:37:00.003+08:00

Gabby's born in the year of the pig... well, didn't read what's written on it... just want to capture the '猪' =)

9 Month Old

2010-02-10T23:41:00.003+08:00

Gabby & Caelan @ 9 month old... personally I feel that they look very different, have their own individual look but there are people who said tht Caelan has Gabby's looks. What do you think??? =)

Woof Woof!

2010-02-10T23:30:00.002+08:00

Gabby came home one day from school and started 'woofing' around... learning to bark like a dog and her little brother simply adores her when she woofs around him.

摇摇头

2010-02-10T23:21:00.002+08:00

Caelan has been able to shake his head for the longest time but I always never got the chance to catch him doing it on video. It never fails to bring a smile on anyone's face who has seen him shake his head. He looks really cute while doing it =P

Breakfast Time

2010-02-10T23:15:00.003+08:00

Went breakfast with Caelan yesterday @ Mackers, he had his favourite Teddy bear puffs while I have my Mcmuffin with tea =) Enjoy life huh... not really, off to pick Gabby in an hour's time and then off to a busy afternoon with the kids @ home.

Gabby's Drawing

2010-02-10T23:08:00.003+08:00

Happy face

Sad face

Gabby drew these 2 faces on her own... :)

Hong Bao Party

2010-02-10T22:57:00.003+08:00

Last Saturday, I brought Gabby to JW for the Children's Church Hong Bao party. Dressed her in a Vietnamese traditional attire =) There was no big crowd, the children filled up the seats on the floor area in the auditorium. We sat at the back as we were a little late plus I got Caelan with me (can leave anytime if Caelan's noisy).

Gabby enjoyed herself during Praise, stood on the chair and jumping to the Praise songs, got a little restless during worship. Sad to say, we had to leave a short while after the sharing got started as Caelan's got a little noisy due to his hunger bangs. Gabby insisted to leave with me, so off we went to nursery where I feed Caelan his porridge. And Gabby got to watch a little of the happenings in B4 from the nursery but of course the toys in nursery have won her over the moment she stepped in. =)

Miss Gabby

2010-02-10T22:55:00.003+08:00

My little princess on her way to school one morning... =P

Kiddy Ride

2010-02-10T22:44:00.003+08:00

It never fails to bring a smile on the kids when they get the chance to sit on the kiddy ride (I don't insert coin for them), and Caelan is not losing out in this either. Nowadays, he gets really excited when he sees one and when he's on one, he's very happy and you can tell from his face that he likes it =)

In The Trolley

2010-02-10T16:31:00.002+08:00

After dropping Gabby off in school, I will usually bring Caelan for breakfast either with 姨姨 or alone, then sometimes we'll go Fairprice X-tra to do some marketing. This is Caelan's 2nd time in the trolley and he's all excited about it.

My conclusion after the whole trip to the supermarket, not easy to have him sitting in the trolley. Because he likes to reach out for things and worst thing is he will try and HE CAN climb and stand up on the seat, it's so scary at times. And he simply has no fear at all!! Eyes have to be constantly on him.

Bad Fall

2010-02-10T16:21:00.004+08:00

Gabby had a bad fall one Saturday after Service. She was playing with Debbie at one corner, suddenly saw Debbie fell and Gabby fell after and hit her mouth against a chair. She cried very badly and suddenly I saw a lot of blood coming from her mouth. I got a shock, quickly took out my wipes to press on the wound to stop the bleeding, it bled for quite a while. When the bleeding has slowed down, I remembered I got a sweet in my bag and was ransacking my bag trying to find it and let her suck on the sweet.

She stopped crying after quite a while, and in the midst of everything, tears welled up and flowed down my face. Think I got a shock, and that she's never bled so much before even when she had a similar but lighter fall previously. I felt so bad at that moment, not able to take good care of her when Daddy is away.

Sorry my dear gal. Thank God she's fine and still able to eat during dinner after that. A big swell came the next day and went off away few days later.