Kayla & Kieran's lil big moments

Baptism 22.05.11

2011-05-22T19:16:00.004+08:00

"Lord, as we gather together at St.Ambrose Church today, we ask for your blessings on our son Kevin. Hold him and let him always feel your loving presence."

"Lord, we ask for your blessings on the parents, grandparents and Godfather of Kevin. May they guide him with their own example of love and always be ready to listen, to comfort and to priase."

1 month old Kevin

2011-05-18T20:43:00.010+08:00

At 4 weeks, he weighs 5.2kg, drinks 150ml and sleeps 3-4hrs. In the evening, he will fuss for 4hrs before he gives up & sleeps !

I am still waiting for my fussy little man to settle into a routine, hopefully before my mom leaves in Aug. Right now, I have no sense of time. I am always rushing and I dont have enough sleep !

Its really not easy taking care of 3 children (even with my mom's help!) but I cannot imagine my life without them =)

8 days old Kevin

2011-04-26T18:30:00.006+08:00

Kev is such an angel. He will always be a reminder for me to stay strong and positive. When I found out I was expecting, I knew it wouldn't be an easy 9 months. I was constantly worried about how the little one was doing inside. I felt guilty I wasnt resting enough or eating as well as I should be.

Now when I look at him, I know things happened for a reason.

Hes 8 days old today and hardly wakes up unless its time for his milk.

Jie jie is so proud of him !

Pregnancy week 39 - Birthstory

2011-04-21T15:29:00.007+08:00

Our precious son, Kevin Low Jun Xuan, arrived on the 18th April 2011.

18th April @ 4.30am, felt mild contractions. Wanted to wait for more regular contractions but decided to check into the hospital.

6am - reached hospital. Midwife did a CTG.

7am - 5cm dilated.

9am - Gynae broke my water bag and immediately dilated from 7cm to 9cm.

Baby was delivered before 10am, without any pain relief or epidural. He weighed 3.67kg.

I am truly blessed with a smooth 39 weeks pregnancy and a fast labour. My husband has been very supportive and loving. I love my kids, they are so understanding.

4 days old little Kevin after a big feed

Pregnancy week 38

2011-04-07T18:02:00.013+08:00

Baby is engaged already and comfortably baking inside me. I doubt he will be out anytime soon. Kayla and Kieran were induced at 40weeks 2 days so my feeling is, I will have to go through another round of painful induction ! My mom arrived in Sydney last Wednesday - FINALLY !! I really need a good rest until I deliver. My back, hips and left rib hurts due to too much walking and bending. Plus Richard has been very very busy with work so mom really came at the right time ! Thank God :)

Pregnancy week 32

2011-02-27T12:46:00.007+08:00

Doc said my baby is very low lying now. I need to rest more & walk less for the next 6 weeks. Its really difficult to manage alone during the day on weekdays. Since school term started in Feb, kids go to bed by 730pm and wake up at 7am everyday. So I get to relax, watch tv & sleep early every night too.

Cant wait for my mom to come on the 30th March. Her presence makes a big difference !

Gong Xi Fa Cai

2011-02-05T17:21:00.004+08:00

Kayla's 1st PE day

2011-02-03T18:16:00.003+08:00

Every Thursday, sports uniform (including white sports shoes & hat) is to be worn.

This morning I was overwhelmed with emotions when I saw my little girl walking to the school compound, looking lost and insecure, searching for familiar faces. My heart broke. I know she will be alright because she has always been very independent & calm for her age, but I just couldnt help feeling sad.

Kayla goes to Kindy

2011-02-01T07:21:00.007+08:00

Kayla's 1st day at St. Ambrose Catholic School. She will be there for the next 7 years. No tears, no anxiety, only excitement & smiles all the way to school.

We are so proud of her !

Summer uniform

Kayla's best friend, Gabriella, from pre-school

Kieran, 4yrs 3mths

2011-01-25T10:01:00.007+08:00

Kieran will be a kor kor in 12 weeks time. He has progressed so much over the last 6months. Definately more vocal now. He loves his big sister and always look out & look up to her. Hes not ready to continue pre-school in Feb, without his sister who will be in Kindy. Most of his little friends will be in Kindy this year too, so it will be a whole new experience for him.

I am sure he will be fine.

A different kind of pregnancy experience

2011-01-20T13:14:00.006+08:00

I worry alot for this pregnancy. I am so used to the maternity care in Singapore & so comfortable with my female obstetrician, I am quite nervous to have a baby here.

I am seeing a male obstetrician at a private hospital now. It is next to a very good children's hospital which I feel is very important, in case of any emergencies. Most of the tests (down syndrome/oscar, 20wks scan, blood tests etc) are carried out at another specialists centre, unlike the one-stop service at Thomson Medical Hospital where I delivered my two children.

Maybe because I am older now, I worry sick after a test is done & chase after the poor doctor for the report. Last Saturday, I went for the Glucose Tolerance Test to check for Gestational Diabetes. I had to drink 300ml of glucose (yucks !) and blood levels are checked after an hour. After 3 days of prayers, very grateful to know my glucose level is NORMAL.

Hopefully no more screenings till baby arrives.

Tooth fairy, pls come another day

2011-01-15T13:10:00.004+08:00

(Backdated: photo taken on 7th Jan'11)

My 5.5yo Kayla has just lost her first milk tooth & her first permanent tooth can be seen breaking through.

She has requested daddy to give her a coin instead so she gets to keep her tooth.

Pregnancy week 27

2011-01-14T19:50:00.005+08:00

Almost in my last trimester. Everything has been great, except for the horrible acid reflux at 21 weeks ! I couldnt sleep, eat, walk and even sit properly. The annoying thing was I didnt lose weight ! Sigh.

Like my other 2 pregnancies, I have a low placenta. Doc. told me there is a good chance it will move up and it did move slightly from my check up yesterday. Baby has also turned head down. Please remain in that position, little one.

Its getting quite difficult to bring my 2 kids to places alone now. We are at home most of the days. I am trying to cut down their TV time so the day seems REALLY LONG. Even though its hard to stick to the usual routine (before pregnancy) and my energy level is low, I try to be best mom I can.

Very grateful for a wonderful husband and kids.

Pregnancy week 20

2010-11-29T18:00:00.002+08:00

Yes, we are going to be a family of 5 :)

Daddy's wish is to have 3 kids. After Kieran arrived, I told everyone I am very happy with 2 kids and was very sure I would never try for another baby. Then the decision to relocate to Sydney made me even more certain my shop is closed FOREVER !

Well, people do change. This year I decided to try for another baby & I believe God wont give me anything I cant handle. Daddy is extremely happy to be a parent of 3 kids. He has been very helpful around the house & taking care of the kids. Kayla & Kieran are very amused with my growing tummy and they cant wait to see the baby.

Pregnancy has been ok so far. I pray it will continue to be good & I hope I will stay strong & positive.

Thanks for all the encouragement & prayers.

Gold Coast (25th - 28th Nov'10 )

Kieran is 4

2010-10-27T14:01:00.006+08:00

26th October is Kieran's birthday.

He was a quiet little boy & a very fussy-eater. Now, he talks alot and hes very independent. He doesnt like structure, he still enjoy doing puzzles & he spends hours playing with his superhero toys. He loves bacon, tuna, rice, noodles, carrot & broccoli.

Happy Birthday, son ! Stay curious & happy always !

Dinner at Oliveto, an Italian restaurant we love.

End of Term 3

2010-10-01T09:37:00.005+08:00

We're really proud of what Kayla has achieved so far. If this is what she likes, we will definately support her all the way. Next year, she will be graded and will be performing in a concert. Good dancing, my princess !

My big project

2010-09-24T16:04:00.001+08:00

There are more than 1000 precious photos stored in our pc. I was too lazy to sort out because I didnt know where to start ! Realising Kieran is turning 4 next month and my baby girl is no longer a baby (shes going to be 6yo next yr), I forced myself to get down to some serious "work".

Last week, my scrapbook journey began.

My Dollie

2010-09-04T17:21:00.002+08:00

Kayla @ 5yrs 2mths

Happy Birthday Daddy !

2010-08-24T19:33:00.003+08:00

Daddy celebrated his birthday on the 24th Aug. The highlight of his day was Adriano Zumbo V8 cake ! This cake was featured in Masterchef Australia & we were very happy we finally get to eat it !!

Happy Birthday papa ! You are the best daddy and we love you very much.

V8 cake - 8 layers of distinctly different vanilla.

Every day is Happy Birthday

2010-08-01T14:55:00.004+08:00

Now the kids can sing Happy Birthday, make a wish, blow the candles and enjoy yummy strawberry cake EVERYDAY !

Happy 5th Birthday

2010-07-26T21:24:00.015+08:00

5 days after mummy me's birthday is Kayla's birthday. She had 3 lovely celebrations - twice with Uncle lee & family and one at pre-school.

Dinner at Pancakes On The Rocks with Uncle lee & family.

Actual day was celebrated in pre-school. I ordered 45 lovely yummy mini cupcakes for her friends and teachers.

Sinful delicious dessert at the Chocolate Bar with Uncle lee & family.

Baby Kieran

2010-07-01T14:18:00.006+08:00

This is Kieran when he was 6 months old, sleeping & playing at Aunty Jerlene's house. I really dont remember him being so chubby ... oh my, he had fat thighs too !

Good dancing, Ballerina

2010-06-29T19:24:00.011+08:00

I have been waiting for this day - to watch Kayla perform !! There is only one day per term for parents to sit in.

I think Kayla has done really well.

* Video may take a while to load. Pause first.

New camera

2010-06-28T16:24:00.004+08:00

"Upgraded" my camera recently. Hope I can capture sharper & beautiful photos of my family :)

Night Fury

2010-06-28T15:48:00.005+08:00

Night Fury is a dragon from the movie How To Train A Dragon. Kieran enjoyed the movie & when I saw the jacket, I knew I had to buy it for him.

Chicken, Prawn & Tomato Paella

2010-06-18T18:45:00.002+08:00

This is one of Donna Hay's recipes I tried & enjoyed by my kids.

Ingredients:
1.5 tablespoons olive oil
200g chicken thigh fillet, trimmed and chopped
200g green prawns, peeled, tails intact
1 small brown onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chilli flakes (optional)
3/4 cup rice
400g can diced tomatoes ( I used tomato puree)
310ml campbell chicken stock
Parsley and lemon wedges, to serve

Method:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over high heat. Add chicken and prawns & cook until golden (cooked through). Set aside.

Add the remaining oil to the pan with the onion, garlic, chilli (optional) & paprika until softened. Add the rice, tomato & stock, reduce heat & cook until the rice is cooked. Stir in the chicken & prawns and cook for a further 1 min.

Top with parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Serves 2.

Enjoy !

The Baby Proms (Syd Opera house)

2010-06-17T20:37:00.007+08:00

Kayla's first pre-school excursion to The Baby Proms at the Sydney Opera House. The show and the orchestra was amazing !

The children had their morning tea on the steps of the Opera House, before going into the auditorium. After the show, we went to the Botanic Gardens for lunch (picnic). It was beautiful experience for the kids.

Outside the Opera House

Botanic Gardens

Kayla's best friend, Gabriella.

Beautiful Melbourne

2010-06-13T20:36:00.007+08:00

Postdated: 3/6 - 9/6

Daddy had to work in Melbourne for a few days so of course, kids & I went along too ! Though it was only an hour flight from Sydney, it wasnt easy to manage 2 kids, 1 luggage & 1 handcarry bag on my own.

I love the beautiful Melbourne city - so clean, so neat & so easy to get around. The weather was terrible tho. ! It was freezing & rained most of the days.

Brought the kids for horse/carriage ride. The adults were more excited !!

Shushu & kids

Enjoying lunch at Melbourne Central:

Federation Square

In front of Flinders train station

My little masterchefs wearing nainai's apron. Thank you nainai for all the yummy pastry & food !

Ms Richard

2010-05-27T14:22:00.002+08:00

Kiama

2010-05-24T10:24:00.007+08:00

Gong2 & Popo2 visited us on the 3rd of May. We spent a good 3 weeks eating & shopping. Kids miss them terribly and they totally enjoyed their company !!

Over one of the weekends, we took a 1.5hr drive to Kiama - known for its beautiful natural scenery, clean beaches & architecture. The main attraction is the Blowhole.

Along the way, we stopped to take pictures of the sea cliff bridge along the Grand Pacific Drive:

Kiama:

Highlight - Blowhole:

Swimming - Term 2

2010-04-22T13:07:00.005+08:00

Term 1 was a real struggle for the kids & for me (emotionally) - zero confidence; constant whinning & begging to stay away from the water! Their good friend, Melanie, has stopped learning because her mummy feels she is not ready. I was so afraid they would give up too. But I still went ahead with the payment for term 2 ... and pray for the best.

I am so pleasantly surprised with their change of attitude & confidence level at the pool today! Compare to the other kids (same age or younger!) in the earlier session, they are behind the program but thats fine.. I am already very proud of what they have achieved so far ! Keep it up !!

New wetsuits to keep them warm in the water

Blowing bubbles

Fully submerged in the water for the first time !

Swimming with the "noodle"

Twinkle twinkle little stars...

Ballerina

2010-04-21T19:29:00.002+08:00

Nearly had a heartattack when I saw the amount I had to pay for Kayla's leotard, skirt, tights, ballet shoes and cross over top !!! They are so expensive but they are really really lovely & beautifully made.

Matching cross over top for cold days

1st Singapore gathering

2010-04-20T17:01:00.009+08:00

New term has started. Kayla had a good 2 weeks term break and yesterday she was back to pre-school. Mandarin & swimming classes will resume this week too. Today was also Kayla's 1st ballet lesson - her greatest love.

Last Sat. we attended our 1st One people-One nation-One Singapore gathering ! Ha ha ha !!! It was held at Bray Bay Reserve (park) just across the road from where we are staying. The company was great; the weather was beautiful and the kids enjoyed themselves. It was good fun!

Serious discussion on the economy ?

Picnic @ the park

My princess eating bird's food (bread)!

Very important people !

Easter Show 2010

2010-04-06T09:36:00.004+08:00

Sydney Royal Easter Show is a national icon that celebrates all things. Big celebration every easter at the Syd Olympic park. There are rides, games, food, events, fireworks and showbags (must buy!).

Plane book

2010-03-17T14:04:00.004+08:00

I have been spending quite abit of money buying books (interactive/story) for the kids. I didnt know the books here are so expensive ! Anyway this is the only way to keep them busy for hours !

This is one of the books I bought for Kieran. I love Usborne collections. Its a wind-up plane book - wind up the plane and watch it zoom around the 3 tracks.

Around the world:

At the airport:

The Evolution of Parenthood

2010-03-15T13:32:00.003+08:00

Came across this funny list in one mummy's blog. How things change after each baby ! So guilty but its so true !!

Your Clothes -

1st baby: You begin wearing maternity clothes as soon as your OB/GYN confirms your pregnancy.

2nd baby: You wear your regular clothes for as long as possible.

3rd baby: Your maternity clothes are your regular clothes.

Preparing for the Birth -

1st baby: You practice your breathing religiously.

2nd baby: You don’t bother practicing because you remember that last time, breathing didn’t do a thing.

3rd baby: You ask for an epidural in your 8th month.

The Layette -

1st baby: You pre-wash your newborn’s clothes, color-coordinate them, and fold them neatly in the baby’s little bureau.

2nd baby: You check to make sure that the clothes are clean and discard only the ones with the darkest stains.

3rd baby: Boys can wear pink, can’t they?

Pacifier -

1st baby: If the pacifier falls on the floor, you put it away until you can go home and wash and boil it.

2nd baby: When the pacifier falls on the floor, you squirt it off with some juice from the baby’s bottle.

3rd baby: You wipe it off on your shirt and pop it back in.

Diapering -

1st baby: You change your baby’s diapers every hour, whether they need it or not.

2nd baby: You change their diaper every 2 to 3 hours, if needed.

3rd baby: You try to change their diaper before others start to complain about the smell or you see it sagging to their knees.

Worries -

1st baby: At the first sign of distress – a whimper, a frown – you pick up the baby.

2nd baby: You pick the baby up when her wails threaten to wake your firstborn.

3rd baby: You teach your 3-year-old how to rewind the mechanical swing.

Activities -

1st baby: You take your infant to Baby Gymnastics, Baby Swing, and Baby Story Hour.

2nd baby: You take your infant to Baby Gymnastics.

3rd baby: You take your infant to the supermarket and the dry cleaner.

Going Out -

1st baby: The first time you leave your baby with a sitter, you call home 5 times.

2nd baby: Just before you walk out the door, you remember to leave a number where you can be reached.

3rd baby: You leave instructions for the sitter to call only if she sees blood.

At Home -

1st baby: You spend a good bit of every day just gazing at the baby.

2nd baby: You spend a bit of every day watching to be sure your older child isn’t squeezing, poking, or hitting the baby.

3rd baby: You spend a little bit of every day hiding from the children.

Park & Ride

2010-03-07T16:36:00.006+08:00

Today, we took a 40mins ferry ride to the city from Meadowbank, which is 5 mins drive from our place. Beautiful view !

Hey pretty !

Yes handsome ?

Matrix

2010-03-06T20:46:00.004+08:00

My super hero - captured by daddy's super camera !

God helps you

2010-02-22T13:41:00.004+08:00

Kayla believes God watches over her like how HE watches little George in the story book:

Gabriella & Kayla

I just found out Gabriella will be attending the same catholic school as Kayla :)

Prawn noodles soup for the soul

2010-02-21T12:29:00.005+08:00

2 sick toddlers + 1 sick mom is the worst combo ever !

We havent been so ill for a long long time (God bless !) I heard about kids falling sick for a few months to 1 year when they start school. Since I cant prevent, all I can do is to increase their vitamins intake & make sure they eat well.. and pray very hard !

Kayla was down with fever last Thursday, followed by me & Kieran. Daddy had to take leave on Friday to bring all of us to the doctor. Kayla's condition was the worst - she couldnt hold down any fluid that day & I was very scared. Do I need to bring her to the children's hospital? Do I ask my parents to come or do I get help from our relatives here??

I prayed so hard.

Miraculously, we all became better on Saturday. Just like that ! Kids are eating well and active again. Today, I am back to "work" - oh how I love my job - and I made tasty prawn noodles soup to warm our tummies and our soul.

Home

2010-02-13T19:06:00.007+08:00

We had our reunion lunch with Richard's relatives, in chinatown. It was great. The kids love being around them and I am so grateful for the joy they bring into our (quiet) lives.

I wish I could have a reunion meal with my family in Singapore. I wish I could bring my kids to (SG)chinatown to feel the festive mood. I feel alittle sad they dont get to experience CNY the way I did when I was young. I miss the gathering at "big" & "small" aunties' house and the karaoke sessions with my cousins.

The very thoughtful gong2 & popo mailed us some CNY decors for our home - decors I dont appreciate before, now I love them !! Thank you!

Thank you nai nai for the 2 big angpows !

We will like to wish all our friends & relatives a Happy Lunar New Year & Valentine's Day! 身体健康！天天开心!

Preschool life begins

2010-02-09T13:12:00.005+08:00

Kayla has started pre-kindy which is optional in Sydney. Next year, she will go to kindy & the year after she will be in primary 1. Suddenly I feel so sad - my kids are growing up too quickly !

Last year, I wasnt sure if Kayla was ready to start pre-school. I was concern if she was able to adapt to the different culture & environment and I am glad I did the right thing by keeping her at home - educating and building up her character/confidence. I wasnt worried at all when she started school yesterday.

She told me she is very happy :)

I have to prepare morning tea & lunch for her to bring to school. The schools here dont provide food. She told me she wants to have pasta, noodles, rice...... etc etc etc. She has full of suggestions. Gosh !

Ok, as long as you eat well Kayla.

1st swimming lesson

2010-02-04T11:39:00.005+08:00

Kids had their 1st swimming lesson in a private club (no, we are not members but the club conducts swimming lessons for small groups at reasonable rates.. hehe).

Throughout the 3omins lesson, I was so worried for them. I was surprised my timid little Kayla performed better than her brother. I could tell Kieran was feeling uptight/uneasy & wanted to get out of the pool twice... had to keep praising & encouraging him.

Totally irrelevant - simply love the curls!

3 aquaducks with their coach.

(Click to enlarge photo)

A healthy indulgence

2010-02-02T14:55:00.006+08:00

My all-time-any-time indulgence - OYSTERS with lemon & tabasco! Cheap, fresh & juicy oysters are easily available everywhere. Cant believe they are LOW in fat, calories, cholesterol & rich in protein !

Two weekends ago, my friends & I had our ladies night out. We had the best beef/ribs combo, oysters & beer at Hurricane's Grill & Bar in Darling Harbour.

Yum !

Hello bedroom

2010-01-23T17:45:00.006+08:00

Finally, the kids have migrated to their own bedroom & guess whos suffering from seperation anxiety ?

ME !

The kids chose their own bedsheets and decor. We sorted out the toys for each box and made the room as cosy as possible. It wasnt easy coming to a compromise because the boy wanted cars, rockets and dinosaurs for the room and the girl .. fairies, butterflies and anything pink !

Kayla's little corner:

Angel vs the red devils !

Loving summer

2010-01-20T17:17:00.006+08:00

I love the long summer evenings. It doesnt get dark until 830pm so some days we had our dinner alittle later cuz we forgot to look at the clock !

We brought the kids to the park last weekend and they had a good time building castles on the sand pit & getting wet in the fountain.

This cheeky photo was taken at 8pm - a hot Tuesday night !

A lovely weekend at Bicentennial Park.

The bigger the better

2010-01-11T12:53:00.005+08:00

After much grumbling from the 2 grannies about our miserably small fridge, we bought a new one to kickstart the New Year ! I can buy, cook and keep alot more food now. So much better since its so inconvenient to do my marketing all the time.

Oh, our own alfresco dining. The kids love to people watch & daddy is spending more time outdoor than indoor now !

Summary of my holidays in SG

2010-01-10T20:58:00.015+08:00

I am so behind time !

I had a good 5 weeks break in SG. Actually it was pretty tiring because I wanted to meet up with as many friends as I could & visit as many places & eat as much local food as possible. It felt really great to be home !

Some memorable events that happened:

Cousin Weiwei's wedding (07/11/09):

My dearest siblings whom I love & support.. always

Popo's early birthday celebration at Swensen's Vivo (11/11/09). The very thoughtful popo ordered a Mickey Mouse cake to make her grandchildren happy:

A short getaway with the man I love - Banyan Tree (12/11/09):

Cousins gathering (18/11/09):

Tai Gong's 98th birthday celebration at Keppel Club (22/11/09):

At the Marina Barrage (24/11/09):

At the zoo (25/11/09):

Ex-colleagues gathering (26/11/09):

And lastly

HongKong trip (5/12 - 8/12)

Best ice-cream in town !

2010-01-09T19:19:00.004+08:00

According to our dear nainai, French Riviera ice-cream is the most shiok ice-cream she has eaten ! We had the mini rainbow - good for 3-4 people to share !

Dell's family day

2010-01-02T18:59:00.006+08:00

18th of Dec 2009 was daddy's company's family day. The kids didnt get to play in the jumping castle because it rained ! They were really disappointed. Anyway, it was nice meeting daddy's colleagues & very assuring to know there are no pretty female colleagues sitting anywhere near his work desk !!

Ha ha !!!

Daddy's work desk

Magical Disneyland

2009-12-20T19:09:00.006+08:00

Hong Kong trip - 5th Dec to 8th Dec

I think this will be one of the most memorable trips with my kids & parents. Hopefully daddy can join us next time! It was a cold & wet day in Disneyland but the weather didnt dampen our moods at all.. and thank God the drizzles didnt last.

All thanks to the super efficient (kiasu) grandparents & mummy me, the kids managed to have their photos taken with all their favourite disney characters!

Poor Kayla waiting for popo to buy smelly tofu !

Relative's wedding dinner with my princess & prince.

Slowly getting back to my feet

2009-12-15T22:34:00.005+08:00

I didnt realise how much I miss home & how lonely I felt (for the past 1 year) until we went back to Singapore for a 5 weeks holiday.

I miss - the company of great (long time) friends; the evil look on my sister's face when she broke my (bejeweled) score; my brother's lame jokes; my cousins' naughty jokes & laughter ( even Steven yee jiong's suan-ing felt like compliments!); the crowds, the noise & the Xmas lightings along Orchard Road.. and my laksa & satay bee hoon.

I want to celebrate Xmas in Singapore next year.

Humpty Dumpty had a great fall

2009-11-27T23:33:00.003+08:00

Kieran just had general anesthesia at KK children's hospital. He had a nasty 4cm cut near his left eyebrow after he tripped & knocked his head against a table.

My clothes was covered with so much blood as we tried to stop the bleeding. We rushed him to A&E and waited for 20 mins to see a doctor.

The wait seemed like eternity.

All I remember is my hands were trembling & I was trying very hard to stay calm when doctor said GA was necessary to stitch up his wound. After the anesthesia was administered, he slowly lost consciousness but his eyes were opened & looking into my direction.

Heartpain is an understatement.

The minor procedure took less than 15 mins & he had 8 stitches. My humpty dumpty regained consciousness shortly after & was back to his normal active self.

(Photos will be uploaded when I return to Sydney)

Happy Halloween

2009-11-02T18:47:00.008+08:00

Aunty Mei invited us to her house for a Halloween party and it was nothing like Halloween. Ha ha! Neither did we dress up nor visit the neighbours' for trick or treat.

Still, we had loads of fun - there were food, wine & best of all, the company of great friends.

Yummy popcorns, choc biscuits & juices.

Happy Halloween cake !!

Kieran's best bday gift

2009-11-02T16:45:00.004+08:00

We are very blessed to have such caring, supportive & generous relatives staying in Sydney. They love our kids so much.

Celebrating Kieran's 3rd birthday:

Kieran was totally surprised to receive a wiggles acoustic guitar !

Strumming like a rock star !

Girl meets boy

2009-10-27T09:04:00.001+08:00

Awwww.. so sweet !

Kieran is 3yrs old

2009-10-26T09:10:00.007+08:00

Few weeks ago, we threw a birthday party for Kieran & we failed to capture the important moments (the cake, cake-cutting/blowing & our friends) because we were so busy entertaining our friends, looking after our kids at play & ensuring there was enough to eat & drink.

My poor man had to endure days of grumbling from me.

Yesterday, we had a simple birthday celebration in the comfort of our home & Kieran was very happy his friends, Owen & Melanie, joined us.

(Click to enlarge)

My darlings

Dinosaurs

2009-10-25T18:47:00.008+08:00

Lately, my kids are fascinated about dinosaurs because their friend, Owen, is a big fan of them. To me, they are simply giantic lizards - ugly, scary & uninteresting at all !! But still, yesterday we brought the kids to the Dinosuars exhibition at the Australian Museum.

Daddy loved playmobil when he was a kid. I only know its a beautiful quality toy with a high price tag ! When we saw this dinosaur set at the museum shop, we knew it would be a perfect gift for Kieran's birthday:

Hello Mr Spinosaurus !

Happy Family

2009-10-22T18:57:00.002+08:00

Kieran: Thats papa.. the small one is jie jie.

Ha ha !

Presents from nai nai

2009-10-21T17:18:00.008+08:00

Next Monday is Kieran's 3rd birthday. Nai nai's parcel arrived just in time - 2 story books, a birthday card & a big ang pow.

Kieran is able to colour within the lines now - colouring his birthday card:

A gift for Kayla too - Dora porcelain tea set !

When the weather gets too hot

2009-10-21T16:52:00.004+08:00

Our mini indoor pool - never leave the kids out of sight !

Toilet training

2009-10-20T16:00:00.004+08:00

Some time in March, I tried to toilet train Kieran but he was very uncooperative - refused to do his small & big business in the toilet so I reckon he needed more time.

Now that hes more receptive to instructions, I let him go diaper-free during day since last Friday. It has been 4 days and so far, 1 "small" accident & 1 "big" one !

To encourage him, I have a reward chart on my bathroom door and also bought wiggles & thomas underwears too.

Slow progression but we will get there.

Baby Tristan

2009-10-14T12:01:00.005+08:00

My cousin's, Sheila, cutie baby boy.. and the new look was his naughty uncle's doing !!

My mom & baby Tristan

A trip to Manly Beach

2009-10-12T18:36:00.010+08:00

Another impromptu trip - Mei called me in the morning and thought it was a "lovely" day to go to the beach. I was quite hesistant because 1) its a long drive to Manly Beach and 2) weather is so unpredictable !

So glad we went.

There was no Sun, only Sand & Sea.. Ha ha. No cold wind too and not crowded at all. I think the best time to go to the beach is in between seasons - unless you want to get roasted during summer or frozen during winter !

Kieran - trying to skate with his shoes ( Faint !)

(Click to enlarge photo)

Auntie Mei enjoying her spicy chicken lunch !

Wiggly Party 2

2009-10-11T18:06:00.007+08:00

Please click here to see Kieran's Wiggly Part 1.

Birthday Venue - The Wiggles Play Centre:

Good fun & company !

2009-10-11T09:19:00.021+08:00

Yesterday we went to The Train Shed (1hr roadtrip) with Aunty Mei's & Eve's family - our Singaporean friends who are staying in Sydney. It was a gloomy & cold day (with occasional drizzles) but we still enjoyed ourselves - its the great company that matters.

At the entrance - Train Shed is a small place surrounded by beautiful rural views. It has a shop with great selection of Thomas toys and has a small eating corner.

Waiting for our first ride !

With the not-so fat Controller:

On board James train - our first ride so all the 5 adults (excluding pregnant Eve) & 5 kids took the ride together. Each ride is about 7 mins - down a small slope and through a tunnel.

On board Thomas train - subsequent rides the adults took turns to company the 5 kids.

On board Percy train:

On board Toby train:

And a strong wind blew Kieran's Thomas hat away ...

The not-so-fat controller went to pick up the hat !!

This is the only hat Kieran likes:

Nice family photos taken by Uncle Ben & Aunty Eve

We didnt plan to go anywhere after the train shed but being such easy & spontaneous people, we decided to go to the International Regatta Centre which is very nearby. None of us was affected by the dark clouds & drizzles ! Especially the children. Look at them:

(Click to enlarge pic)

Boat rowing competition:

Guess who ?

2009-10-09T18:29:00.005+08:00

Purple - Jeff
Red - Murray (Kieran's favourite)
Yellow - Sam
Blue - Anthony

Wiggly Party 1

2009-10-03T20:07:00.010+08:00

Today, Kieran celebrated his 3rd birthday (way in advance) at The Wiggles Play Centre. We would like to thank all our friends for braving the rain, the chilling weather and the long drive to make this party a very special & memorable one for Kieran.

I will upload the party photos once daddy transfer the photos fr his camera.

These are some photos taken from my camera - at home unwrapping the presents !

Kieran's favourites:

1. Wiggles microphone

2. Wiggles backpack (fr daddy & mummy)

3. Talking robot

4. 60pcs wiggles puzzle (completed by Kieran)

And these are my favourites:

1. Thomas & friends swim wear

2. Toys R us gift card

3. 3D Noah's Ark story book

Yeah, I am a very boring & practical mummy!! Ha ha.

Last Gymbaroo lesson

2009-10-01T14:31:00.015+08:00

The kids attended their last Gymbaroo lesson with the theme - Helicopter. They enjoyed all the 9 lessons; the teachers were great and the different themes provided many opportunities for learning.

After class, I brought the kids Yum Cha. Kieran loves char siew pau & soya bean curd.. Kayla loves their fried dumplings, sticky rice & fried noodles. Mummy me will eat whatever they cant finish !!

Later, we met up with a Singaporean friend & her daughter. We took the kids to the soft play area and we watched them from a bench with the other moms. About 20mins into play, I heard a thud & immediately I had a bad feeling it was from Kieran. I saw him covering his mouth with his hands and 2 secs later, blood was oozing out from his lower lip ! Quickly carried him out & frantically looking for tissues. Fortunately, a waitress from the opposite cafe saw what happened and brought me some ices & paper napkins to stop the bleeding.

I learnt from another mom that Kieran was trying to walk up a slide, then slipped and fell on his face.

Red pouty lip.

Photos update

2009-09-27T15:19:00.005+08:00

Kayla at 50mths:

Kieran at 35mths:

"Please dont laugh at my cutie curls"

Dust Storm

2009-09-23T11:33:00.002+08:00

Early this morning, I woke up to a red/orange glow outside my bedroom window. When I looked carefully I saw this:

My neighbour's car was covered by thick layers of orange dust! For a moment, I felt like I was in Tom Cruise's War of the Worlds movie - our blue planet invaded by some visitors from Mars !

Then to my horror:

My balcony !! Layers of orange dust too !

Mr Brown

2009-09-16T15:18:00.006+08:00

Kayla bears a striking resemblance to daddy & she gets very upset with me when I say (jokingly) she is "as pretty as daddy".

Yesterday she said to me, " I dont look like daddy. He has BROWN skin but I dont ! "

Mummy: Tanned you mean ?

Ha! Ha !

Lets get wiggly

2009-09-12T15:51:00.003+08:00

We want to make Kieran's 3rd birthday (in Oct.) special because the past 2 birthdays were simple family affairs, no big exciting parties.

Since my son is a BIG fan of The Wiggles, we will hold a birthday party for him at The Wiggly Play Centre ! Today, we went down to check out the place & made some enquiries. We chose "Captain Feathersword's room" as the party room for him to celebrate with his little friends.

(Click to enlarge photo)

Jiejie was very distracted:

Been a year

2009-09-06T20:05:00.003+08:00

No updates because my kids were unwell for the whole week - cold & cough, very common during winter. I think their systems have sort of gotten used to it so they hardly rely on medications now which is a good thing ! Anyway, they are well & active.

Been exactly 1 year since we moved to Sydney ! It wasnt easy for me - sold our home, our car & leaving my family but looking back now, I'm glad I gave Richard my 100% support to take up the job here. Hes definately happier; so are the kids.

I'm thankful to God for all the opportunities. I've learnt to be more patient, loving & understanding towards my kids & husband.

To my family & friends overseas - thank you for your prayers & support too =)

Enjoying every moment in class

2009-08-27T15:07:00.006+08:00

Today was their 5th Gymbaroo lesson & the theme was Boat. Previous weeks were car, plane, train & bus and they learn directionality such as up & down, sideways, forwards & backwards etc.

After class, we had sushi - their all time favourite food - for lunch.

and not forgetting their favourite apple/strawberry juice.

Birthday cake

2009-08-24T19:43:00.016+08:00

Instead of buying a birthday cake for daddy, kids & I decided to bake one. They stood on stools at the kitchen counter, following my instructions.

Sift the flour; beat the butter & caster sugar; beat in the eggs; pour in the evaporated milk & vanilla extract.. then fold in the flour.

Mission completed !!

Happy Birthday daddy !

This is my first attempt at baking & I never thought I could come up with something presentable.. & EDIBLE. The kids have inspired me, their excitment & laughter makes me want to do it again. AND I've learnt to look beyond the mess & embrace the opportunity to teach my kids invaluable skills.

Thank you Janet for the recipe & Elsie for the tips/advices !!

I survived !

2009-08-22T12:46:00.010+08:00

Past 6 days, without daddy, have been pretty challenging for me but I survived ! I thought I would lose my cool in front of my kids & I'm so glad I didnt.. they have been really cooperative & obedient. The only sad thing is I didnt lose a kg !!!

Looking forward to see daddy tomorrow morning - We miss him so much !

At 34 months ...

2009-08-16T20:37:00.006+08:00

Kieran has morphed into a very vocal & expressive little rascal ! Gone are the days when we were worried about his speech development.

Sulking, sighing and "so angry" :

"Humph.. I am so angry"

7 lonely days

2009-08-15T10:21:00.003+08:00

Tomorrow daddy will be going away on a business trip. I shudder at the thought of it.. how am I going to survive & keep my sanity for the next 168 hrs ?!?!

Although I am pretty used to taking care of the kids during the day, by evening time I am totally exhausted (from the bickering, crying, entertaining & housework)! Daddy always help out when he comes home after work.

Anyway...

Daddy, have a safe trip & dont forget to buy the 101 items from DFO for mummy. We will miss you!

Join the dots

2009-08-11T15:32:00.004+08:00

Kieran can hold a pencil properly with a firm grip. A few minutes of drawing and colouring everyday really helps in his fine motor skills.

He enjoys doing the dots-to-dots book. Hes quite good with his ABCs & 123s now. I am very happy!

Scooters

2009-08-10T19:33:00.007+08:00

We love the beautiful and quiet park, by the river, just behind our home. Brought Kayla & Kieran there to test out their new scooters..

Just want to have some fun

2009-08-06T13:13:00.008+08:00

Kayla will be going to pre-school, twice weekly, next year.. and Kieran will most likely go to the childcare/preschool near our place, twice weekly also, mainly to socialise with other children. I know in Singapore kids of their age are already attending some playschools & majority of them probably knew how to spell aeroplane or elephant.

I used to worry alot.. I worried I am not doing enough for them or they are behind the "standards".

Now, I just want them to have fun... to learn & live for themselves so that they will always have the passion to continue to explore. I am happy I have this opportunity to live & experience a totally different parenting style over here.

Tell me and I will forget,
show me and I might remember,
involve me and I will understand.

Their 1st lesson at Gymbaroo:

Goofing around after class:

Toy cake mixer

2009-08-04T18:11:00.009+08:00

Gong2 & popo bought a toy cake mixer as a b'day present for Kayla.. and it really mixes !!!

Comes with a K beater, whisk & spatula:

Hand mixing handle for tough mixture:

Can only bake 2 muffins !! Ha ha ha !

Butter muffin:

Now and then ...

2009-08-02T13:11:00.005+08:00

When Kayla was 3yo..

One year later..

How time flies ...

Kayla's birthday Part 3

2009-07-29T13:12:00.004+08:00

A few months ago, Jiujiu asked Kayla what she wants for her birthday:

Kayla: I want a Elmo chocolate cake.

Jiujiu: Can I get something else for you if I cant find a Elmo choc. cake?

Kayla paused for a while and replied: Then I want a Elmo strawberry cake!

Jiujiu: ........ (totally speechless)

Unlike Spore, it is so difficult to find nice birthday cake designs !! I had to buy the Dora figurines from Target to decorate her birthday cake.

Check out what Jiujiu got for Kayla !!!!

Kayla's birthday Part 2 continues ...

2009-07-29T13:03:00.008+08:00

Some of the yummy dishes Nai nai cooked for the party:

Random photos taken with daddy's camera:

Kayla's birthday Part 2

2009-07-28T10:24:00.003+08:00

Kayla's birthday Part 1

2009-07-27T20:13:00.008+08:00

Kayla had a wonderful time yesteday - she totally enjoyed her day! We're so glad our big chef (Nai nai) came to celebrate this special day with us.

By the time our friends left at 8.30pm, Kayla was very very very tired so she woke up quite early this morning to open all her presents !!

(Click picture to enlarge)

1. Fairy muscial box from Nai nai

2. Ironing board from Shu shu

3. Ice cream playdoh maker from Daddy & Mummy

4. Cake mixer from Gong2 & popo

The rest are from our close friends.

And this .... from her didi, Kieran:

Happy 4th Birthday Kayla !

2009-07-26T19:52:00.002+08:00

Feel so blessed ...

2009-07-21T15:02:00.005+08:00

I feel so blessed and touched on this special day... thank you for all the hugs & kisses !

- Daddy's special gift fr. Tiffany & co
- Beautiful body care items from Iris
- 3 gd friends had a wonderful time at The Ng's place !

Kayla was so so upset when told those were mummy's birthday cakes! She thought & insisted it was her birthday !!! All the photos turned out badly because she cried & cried non stop !

Look at my curious Kieran ha ha

Little Artists

2009-07-17T18:48:00.004+08:00

Mummy helped Kayla with her Paint & Make Your Own Fairy chestbox so that she can (in her exact words) keep her expensive jewelleries !

Until mummy finds an appropriate smock.. Kieran will have to make do with jie jie's:

Supermom = Superkids

2009-07-14T22:17:00.007+08:00

I received overwhelming reaction from friends, after they read in my Facebook about how my kids waited PATIENTLY for me to get my hair cut & straightened today. Do I have a choice?

Ha ha ha !!

I had to do my marketing & desperately needed a haircut so I brought Kayla & Kieran to Eastwood, a suburb popular for asians food stuff. It was difficult to move around with a pram so Kieran had to walk & he enjoyed it. We had soy sauce chicken rice for lunch at this really small restaurant - shared a table with 3 other old men & they kept staring at us like we were some exhibits !

Then I bought some groceries and left them in the car, before going to the hair salon... & I was there for ... er... 2hrs. The kids just stood next to me & occasionally jumped and sat on my lap. They were very good.. they are my super kids.

:)

Photos by R. Low

2009-07-13T23:24:00.007+08:00

Some good shots by daddy ! Unfortunately I had to reduce the image size so the effect is not as nice as the original ones.

Kayla & dollie:

Kieran & his 100pcs cars jigsaw:

Our home:

The moon's up

Daddy's new love

2009-07-13T13:39:00.007+08:00

To own a good coffee machine has always been on daddy's mind.. for years. But everytime he will simply tell himself that money can be put to better use like paying for my spa & facial packages! Ha ha.

Last week we saw a range of Delonghi coffee makers by Nespresso & daddy was VERY tempted to get it but being a good father & husband as he is, he told me he doesnt need it. That night I consulted the very wise nai nai if she heard & tried Nespresso coffee and her reply was, "Makes very good coffee...! " and the very fast-hands-fast-legs nai nai went to get it for daddy the next day ! !

Nespresso Citiz - a unique system that uses the Nespresso capsules to make great espresso.

Daddy's 2nd new love is the Tefal indoor BBQ-grill he bought last Sat. Cheap, good & easy to clean! We had wagyu beef, bacons, chicken skewers & salads for dinner that night.

Chef Low at work !!

Twins ?

2009-07-10T18:21:00.005+08:00

The 2 common questions passers-by often ask me:

1) Your son has unusual hair colour, is he a caucasian? NO.

2) Are they ( Kayla & Kieran) twins ? No. They're exactly 15mths apart.

"Same height and shoe size but we're not twins"

Tasty tomato sauce

2009-07-06T14:25:00.008+08:00

Kieran LOVES tomato sauce & cant get enough of it ! We had breakfast at the nearby mall last Sat & all he wanted was toast bread with lots of tomato sauce !!!

Very contented !

After a tasty tomato sauce breakfast, we brought him for a haircut. Sorry nai nai, he needed a trim badly!

Time to recharge ... Passion for puzzles

2009-06-29T21:50:00.009+08:00

Once in a while, my battery goes flat & I have no desire to recharge myself.. just want to stay in bed alittle longer or simply watch my kids monkeying around. Maybe because I am always so occupied with the kids, housework & cooking, I allow myself to go to sleep mode when my parents or nainai are here :P

So, my system has been shut down for a good 3 weeks. Its time to recharge !!! Popo will be going home this Wed :(

BUT nainai will be visiting us on the 25th July !!!!

We are so blessed.

Anyway, 2 months ago we bought a 100pcs The World of Cars (disney & pixar) puzzle for Kieran, simply because he loved the packaging so much he didnt want to let go (we must be mad to let a 2.5yrs old fix a 100pcs puzzle !!! ).

The first few attempts, we helped him to sort out similar colours/background & he did the rest. It was a slow & tedious learning process for him but he never give up. This is how much he loves puzzles !

Now I am extremely proud to say Kieran is able to fix this puzzle all by himself :)

Earrings & cake

2009-06-28T14:55:00.007+08:00

The 1st time Kayla pierced her ears was 8 months ago but due to mild infection, we had to remove her earrings. Last Thursday, she asked for her ears to be pierced again so we went to the pharmacy to enquire. She was calm but I was scared - cannot imagine having both ears pierced at the same time !!!

Hmmm.. I wonder where she inherited the vainity from ?

Random pic:

A birthday cake-on-the-head !

Little Graduates

2009-06-21T10:05:00.004+08:00

Our little ones graduated from Kindermusik - Our Time - on the 20th Jun. Both of them have gained confidence over the 16 weeks course & they sang, danced & participated freely. They will have more musical fun when the new term starts in July !

Gong gong's birthday !

2009-06-18T13:50:00.005+08:00

Celebrated gong gong's bday on the 15th June. It was daddy Richard's first day of exam too ! So while he was pulling out his hair at Macquerie Uni, we were happily shopping ha ha ha ! We had dinner at a Thai restaurant.. I dont think the food was great but the birthday man liked it.. so thats the most important.

Gong gong bought a number "5" candle to show he is STILL in his 50's !! Faint...