Today is parent teacher interview for the kids. Charlynn had hers in the morning and the boys at 12pm.
Charlynn's teacher said that Charlynn is a very responsible and sensible girl and always tries to do her best in all areas. She is very lovable and helpful. No problem for her but we pointed out that she is not using proper English and have many grammar mistakes in her speech. She can speak well but not confident. Charlynn is considered better in her class and teacher hopes she will continue with the good progress.
Chantz 's teacher was pleased with his progress. Comments he is a typical boy who rushes through his work. His form teacher said that he is very clever and vocal and have a wealth of general knowledge. I never taught them anything and they are not reading as much as we want them so the only source is TV. He is able to retain knowledge quickly. I think it's because the boys have higher IQ than peers so they compensating their disablities of not able to recognise print by remembering facts.
Told Charles teacher how Charles behaved at home. He is an angel in class. Helpful and thoughful and very well behaved. I know the interaction of parents and him can be the key to his beahviour but he is jsut super sensitive and likes to display
his emotions. Actually his character a bit like me. Very emotional but I have learnt to contain my emotions as I aged.
Teacher said to catch them while they are good. Not to negatively reinforcing the boys bad behaviour. Will ignore and jsut let them have time out. sometimes we just have to talk sensibly and don;t threaten la.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Monday, July 28, 2008
Nothing new
On saturday, the children went to their Art teacher's house as their art projects were in display. The council had organised an Art trail for all the Artists. Somehow our children enjoyed having their art works in display.
After staying for a while, we went for lunch before we came back to Campsie. Children had Chinese lesson from 2-5pm. Somehow they were really well behaved and never refused to go in.
On sunday we went to the National park. It was quite nice to be out and the scenery was magnificent. Children had so much fun but I was tired with all the driving.
Today children had lunch order as I had forgotten to buy bread so they can choose what to eat. I am feeling sore at the back as today I was busy cleaning up the house. Did not do anything over the weekend as Children were around. Somehow the place already looks really messy after thy came back. A house with children will never be clean and tidy.
After staying for a while, we went for lunch before we came back to Campsie. Children had Chinese lesson from 2-5pm. Somehow they were really well behaved and never refused to go in.
On sunday we went to the National park. It was quite nice to be out and the scenery was magnificent. Children had so much fun but I was tired with all the driving.
Today children had lunch order as I had forgotten to buy bread so they can choose what to eat. I am feeling sore at the back as today I was busy cleaning up the house. Did not do anything over the weekend as Children were around. Somehow the place already looks really messy after thy came back. A house with children will never be clean and tidy.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Buying caged Eggs and chicken
Watched Jamie Oliver's show on TV and that totally changed my opinion on what goes into our mouths. Will probably eat more vegetables and fruit. Read on to find out why?
Battery Hens
A hen with its wings outstretched is approximately
twice the width of a typical battery cage!
Life In The Cages
The Battery Hen spends all her laying life in a cage crammed in with three and up o seven other birds. She stands for life on a space smaller than this leaflet. Her only exit is to the slaughterhouse.
Cages are kept in huge artificially lit sheds. The hen stands on thin sloping wire - her feet and legs crippled. She cannot perch, preen, scratch in the dirt, dust-bathe, spread her wings, or escape to a quiet place to lay an egg - all activities known to be extremely important to the behavioural needs of a hen.
"Nesting motivation in the hen is strong. Hens will push through weighted swing doors and run the gauntlet of water baths and blasts of air to reach a nest." - (Duncan & Kite 1987)
"They will learn to use trap nests even when they end up being deprived of food and water as a consequence." - (Duncan 1978)
Broken Bones
Battery Hens are prone to bone breakages. Their bones are brittle through over-production of eggs and lack of exercise. A high percentage have Osteoporosis. By the time they are finally slaughtered up to 56 per cent of caged hens have suffered painful fractures.
A young chick being debeaked
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
De-Beaking
Stressed and crowded hens peck at each other. Therefore farmers cut off a third of the chicken's beak with a hot wire guillotine. This causes severe pain at the time and the chicken may die of shock. Also the nerves in the beak stump are still active and the hen suffers pain for months, perhaps years afterwards. Many have great difficulty eating for the rest of their lives.
Forced Moult
Hens moult in Autumn and are off-lay for 2-3 months to rest. Battery farmers reduce this non-productive period by semi or total starvation of the hens, in order to bring them back on-lay more quickly. Many hens die during this process.
Lighting Programs
Already over-bred for peak laying capacity, the hen's body is pushed further by lighting programs which stimulate her to lay even more eggs. Prolapse and tumours are common, as is acute calcium deficiency leading to "layer fatigue". This occurs when the hen's body can take no more and she finally collapses.
A hen found long dead in a NSW battery farm. Her claws had grown around the wire and immobilised her. She starved to death because she could not reach the food.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Death is the End
Whether free-range or battery, hens past their laying peak are regarded as useless. They are dragged from the cages, stuffed into crates, trucked to the abattoir and shackled upside down on a conveyor belt to await slaughter. Many suffer multiple fractures during this process.
What About the Codes of Practice?
The Codes of Practice are purely voluntary and easily ignored. The NSW Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTA) does not protect factory farmed animals. When Animal Liberation in Tasmania brought a successful cruelty case against an egg farmer, the State Government changed the law to exclude battery hens.
Only PUBLIC OPINION can permanently alter conditions for animals. YOUR support, YOUR letters, YOUR refusal to buy cruel products will turn the tide for animals.
EGGS: Worth All This Suffering?
Probably not. Heart disease is a major killer in Australia today - second only to cancer. Cholesterol is a prime factor in heart disease. Eggs have more cholesterol than any other commonly eaten food. The American Heart Association recommends cutting down on eggs. Some health diets advise leaving them out altogether. If you choose to eat eggs, buy only Free-Range. Check the source to make sure they are genuine.
The other hen in the cage used the rotting body as a nest to lay her egg. Many eggs are seen on dead bodies. These can roll free and end up in our supermarkets.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What happens to male chicks?
Half of all chicks born are male. Nearly all are killed at one day old. Methods used are crushing, mincing and suffocation. There is no room for sentiment in the poultry industry.
What About Other Countries?
In Switzerland the battery cage has been prohibited since 1992. In Sweden it will be gone by 1998. Denmark is moving in that direction. In Australia 80% of those surveyed would like to see the cage banned. TV coverage of de-beaked, de-feathered, sick, dying and dead hens crammed into cages in filthy conditions, of eggs laid by living hens on the rotting corpses of their cage mates - scenes such as this have sickened viewers and convinced them they want no part of this cruel, polluting and unhealthy industry.
Do Unhappy Hens Lay Eggs?
Yes they DO. Egg-laying is a biological/sexual function. The Battery Hen's ovaries are controlled by selective breeding, a high protein diet and an extended lighting program within the sheds.
Even confined, crippled, miserable, de-beaked and de-feathered hens will still lay eggs!
Summary
Battery Cages do not allow hens to exercise most normal patterns of behaviour. Furthermore they contravene a more basic principle. In 1964 the UK Government set up a committee under Professor Roger Bramwell, to consider welfare in intensive (factory) farming. This was their finding:
"An animal should at least have sufficient freedom of movement to be able without difficulty to turn around, groom itself, get up, lie down and stretch its limbs" Ð (Bramwell Committee, 1965)
Battery Hens
A hen with its wings outstretched is approximately
twice the width of a typical battery cage!
Life In The Cages
The Battery Hen spends all her laying life in a cage crammed in with three and up o seven other birds. She stands for life on a space smaller than this leaflet. Her only exit is to the slaughterhouse.
Cages are kept in huge artificially lit sheds. The hen stands on thin sloping wire - her feet and legs crippled. She cannot perch, preen, scratch in the dirt, dust-bathe, spread her wings, or escape to a quiet place to lay an egg - all activities known to be extremely important to the behavioural needs of a hen.
"Nesting motivation in the hen is strong. Hens will push through weighted swing doors and run the gauntlet of water baths and blasts of air to reach a nest." - (Duncan & Kite 1987)
"They will learn to use trap nests even when they end up being deprived of food and water as a consequence." - (Duncan 1978)
Broken Bones
Battery Hens are prone to bone breakages. Their bones are brittle through over-production of eggs and lack of exercise. A high percentage have Osteoporosis. By the time they are finally slaughtered up to 56 per cent of caged hens have suffered painful fractures.
A young chick being debeaked
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
De-Beaking
Stressed and crowded hens peck at each other. Therefore farmers cut off a third of the chicken's beak with a hot wire guillotine. This causes severe pain at the time and the chicken may die of shock. Also the nerves in the beak stump are still active and the hen suffers pain for months, perhaps years afterwards. Many have great difficulty eating for the rest of their lives.
Forced Moult
Hens moult in Autumn and are off-lay for 2-3 months to rest. Battery farmers reduce this non-productive period by semi or total starvation of the hens, in order to bring them back on-lay more quickly. Many hens die during this process.
Lighting Programs
Already over-bred for peak laying capacity, the hen's body is pushed further by lighting programs which stimulate her to lay even more eggs. Prolapse and tumours are common, as is acute calcium deficiency leading to "layer fatigue". This occurs when the hen's body can take no more and she finally collapses.
A hen found long dead in a NSW battery farm. Her claws had grown around the wire and immobilised her. She starved to death because she could not reach the food.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Death is the End
Whether free-range or battery, hens past their laying peak are regarded as useless. They are dragged from the cages, stuffed into crates, trucked to the abattoir and shackled upside down on a conveyor belt to await slaughter. Many suffer multiple fractures during this process.
What About the Codes of Practice?
The Codes of Practice are purely voluntary and easily ignored. The NSW Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTA) does not protect factory farmed animals. When Animal Liberation in Tasmania brought a successful cruelty case against an egg farmer, the State Government changed the law to exclude battery hens.
Only PUBLIC OPINION can permanently alter conditions for animals. YOUR support, YOUR letters, YOUR refusal to buy cruel products will turn the tide for animals.
EGGS: Worth All This Suffering?
Probably not. Heart disease is a major killer in Australia today - second only to cancer. Cholesterol is a prime factor in heart disease. Eggs have more cholesterol than any other commonly eaten food. The American Heart Association recommends cutting down on eggs. Some health diets advise leaving them out altogether. If you choose to eat eggs, buy only Free-Range. Check the source to make sure they are genuine.
The other hen in the cage used the rotting body as a nest to lay her egg. Many eggs are seen on dead bodies. These can roll free and end up in our supermarkets.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What happens to male chicks?
Half of all chicks born are male. Nearly all are killed at one day old. Methods used are crushing, mincing and suffocation. There is no room for sentiment in the poultry industry.
What About Other Countries?
In Switzerland the battery cage has been prohibited since 1992. In Sweden it will be gone by 1998. Denmark is moving in that direction. In Australia 80% of those surveyed would like to see the cage banned. TV coverage of de-beaked, de-feathered, sick, dying and dead hens crammed into cages in filthy conditions, of eggs laid by living hens on the rotting corpses of their cage mates - scenes such as this have sickened viewers and convinced them they want no part of this cruel, polluting and unhealthy industry.
Do Unhappy Hens Lay Eggs?
Yes they DO. Egg-laying is a biological/sexual function. The Battery Hen's ovaries are controlled by selective breeding, a high protein diet and an extended lighting program within the sheds.
Even confined, crippled, miserable, de-beaked and de-feathered hens will still lay eggs!
Summary
Battery Cages do not allow hens to exercise most normal patterns of behaviour. Furthermore they contravene a more basic principle. In 1964 the UK Government set up a committee under Professor Roger Bramwell, to consider welfare in intensive (factory) farming. This was their finding:
"An animal should at least have sufficient freedom of movement to be able without difficulty to turn around, groom itself, get up, lie down and stretch its limbs" Ð (Bramwell Committee, 1965)
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Updates
I can't believe that i have not written my blog for a whole week. Seems like time flies without us knowing. children are now back in school and guess i am still trying to get used to the routine again.
We went to Temasek Club picnic on Saturday. I cooked Hokkien mee, Bak Ku teh and black Glutinous Rice desert. They loved the Bak Ku Teh and Hei Nuo Mi. We had Hokkien mee for dinner as they only finish half a tub. Anyway, everyone brought some food so it's natural that they can't finish the food. We met some Singaporeans there and many have come to stay as PR and work. I think I am the only housewife there. One lady's husband is still in Singapore and she is here with her children. She wanted to fulfill her PR ship of staying at least 2 yrs here in 5 yrs time. Another lady left her 17 and 23 yrs old sons back in Singapore and here with her 21 yr old daughter. Husband died 7 yrs ago and left her struggling to raise the kids. She made the bold decision to come here 4 yrs ago. They all love the weather and everything here as not sweaty and hot. Somehow people are migrating here for various reasons but it seems like the relaxed lifestyle is the draw.
Sunday we stayed indoors as Charles was sick and don;t feel like going out. On Monday we went to Cabramatta - which they termed Chinatown 2. The place was crowded and I would say it's a Vietnamese Chinatown. There are many Vietnamese here in Australia probably they came during the Vietnam War as refuges. Guess what Joe heard that some Vietnamese couple divorced and stayed together and received welfare of $500per week as divorcee welfare. Being a Welfare state means that some people might be cashing in from the government. Anyway, it is a small talk topic and I am realy not sure if people are realy doing that to get money. Luckily Singapore is not like that. What if the long queues at MPS nowadays are the result of similiar thinking from our citizens?
Tuesday time flies and I kinda enjoy life without the 3 older kids except that baby was sick so she was sticky. She woke me up in the middle of night and I had to feed her medicine. She was still not well until yesterday. J
Managed to watch some good shows lately. I am starting to enjoy life as Tai Tai as it's really good that I can watch tv after I finish my chores. It's like the reward after a day's hard work.
We went to Temasek Club picnic on Saturday. I cooked Hokkien mee, Bak Ku teh and black Glutinous Rice desert. They loved the Bak Ku Teh and Hei Nuo Mi. We had Hokkien mee for dinner as they only finish half a tub. Anyway, everyone brought some food so it's natural that they can't finish the food. We met some Singaporeans there and many have come to stay as PR and work. I think I am the only housewife there. One lady's husband is still in Singapore and she is here with her children. She wanted to fulfill her PR ship of staying at least 2 yrs here in 5 yrs time. Another lady left her 17 and 23 yrs old sons back in Singapore and here with her 21 yr old daughter. Husband died 7 yrs ago and left her struggling to raise the kids. She made the bold decision to come here 4 yrs ago. They all love the weather and everything here as not sweaty and hot. Somehow people are migrating here for various reasons but it seems like the relaxed lifestyle is the draw.
Sunday we stayed indoors as Charles was sick and don;t feel like going out. On Monday we went to Cabramatta - which they termed Chinatown 2. The place was crowded and I would say it's a Vietnamese Chinatown. There are many Vietnamese here in Australia probably they came during the Vietnam War as refuges. Guess what Joe heard that some Vietnamese couple divorced and stayed together and received welfare of $500per week as divorcee welfare. Being a Welfare state means that some people might be cashing in from the government. Anyway, it is a small talk topic and I am realy not sure if people are realy doing that to get money. Luckily Singapore is not like that. What if the long queues at MPS nowadays are the result of similiar thinking from our citizens?
Tuesday time flies and I kinda enjoy life without the 3 older kids except that baby was sick so she was sticky. She woke me up in the middle of night and I had to feed her medicine. She was still not well until yesterday. J
Managed to watch some good shows lately. I am starting to enjoy life as Tai Tai as it's really good that I can watch tv after I finish my chores. It's like the reward after a day's hard work.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Long distance Romance
How to maintain long distance romance? There is an article on today's newspaper on how a healthy sexual relationship will affect the couple's relationship as we will release a hormone that bonds us together. A couple engaged in good sexual relationship will be healthier and happy too because yes we also release happy hormones.
I think the researh is true as I find myself grumpy and cross when Joe was away. We have communication breakdown as he wanted to talk here at Aussie and yet i had my hands full with children and other chores in Singapore. We even quarrelled a lot and I gave him the cold shoulder and refused to answer to his calls. I was stressed with getting everyone used to our new place, trying to sell my HDB flat, doing my new job, getting my sons to complete their homework and getting them to go school. Yes, they refused to go school many times in that year. Later that we had to ferry them for DAS lesson and I did half load. With all these, my mother in law was cranky as she was not used to the new place and I can't communicate with her. Furthermore, I had a change of 4 maids. So many things to handle and yet the partner not around can drive people nuts. With no one to put a pat on my shoulder and kiss away the tears when I feel sad, I felt so resentful of Joe as well. To be truthful, I became quite suspicious on how he spent his time here in Australia too. Was he having fun and leaving the shit to me in Singapore? So many bad feelings really put a strain on our relationship.
In fact now my family is happily together and we also struggle together day to day basis. Struggling as parenting is a 24/7 job. We have new advantures and experience everyday when our kids are around. Never boring with them around.
I never look back on my decision to join Joe even though I feel bad leaving our aged parents back in Singapore. A couple's relationship will be strengthen if they had to crave a future together in a foreign land. Xiang1 yi1 wei2 ming4 and so the emotional and physical support is enhanced.
We now live quite simply and even though not much luxuries but we are definitely feeling more fulfilling and happy.
I think the researh is true as I find myself grumpy and cross when Joe was away. We have communication breakdown as he wanted to talk here at Aussie and yet i had my hands full with children and other chores in Singapore. We even quarrelled a lot and I gave him the cold shoulder and refused to answer to his calls. I was stressed with getting everyone used to our new place, trying to sell my HDB flat, doing my new job, getting my sons to complete their homework and getting them to go school. Yes, they refused to go school many times in that year. Later that we had to ferry them for DAS lesson and I did half load. With all these, my mother in law was cranky as she was not used to the new place and I can't communicate with her. Furthermore, I had a change of 4 maids. So many things to handle and yet the partner not around can drive people nuts. With no one to put a pat on my shoulder and kiss away the tears when I feel sad, I felt so resentful of Joe as well. To be truthful, I became quite suspicious on how he spent his time here in Australia too. Was he having fun and leaving the shit to me in Singapore? So many bad feelings really put a strain on our relationship.
In fact now my family is happily together and we also struggle together day to day basis. Struggling as parenting is a 24/7 job. We have new advantures and experience everyday when our kids are around. Never boring with them around.
I never look back on my decision to join Joe even though I feel bad leaving our aged parents back in Singapore. A couple's relationship will be strengthen if they had to crave a future together in a foreign land. Xiang1 yi1 wei2 ming4 and so the emotional and physical support is enhanced.
We now live quite simply and even though not much luxuries but we are definitely feeling more fulfilling and happy.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Killing the baby?
I watched a Movie on how a couple living in the 50s in Rural USA struggled to bring up their down sydrome baby up normally. At that time, doctor said to send the kid to the institution and they probably won't survive till 20 yrs old.
The parents wanted the best for their disabled daughter and yet there were many frustrations. Mother uprooted family to California whereby there was a schoo for down sydrome kids. Mother thought the schooling would made her child better but it was just to teach them basic social skills and would not improve their mental abilities. Mother neglected the other 3 siblings as she devoted her time to her disabled daughter. Puberty sets in and the child wanted to have a family too. Parents made the decision to send her to an all girl institution whereby she mingled with the other girls her age and awa from boys.
When I was in the university, Joe and I were able to mingle and understand these group of disability kids as we were in the Welfare Services Club. The club had groups that interact with kids from various disabilities group. To have kids with disabilities can be very stressful for parents.
When I was conceiving Channery, the blood test showed that she might be a down sydrome kid. I was 4 and a half month pregnant and so what if she was? Am I supposed to go ahead and abort her? Joe and I decided that we would not go for further test and let nature take its own course. We did however change my KK hospital gynae as he was not caring and understanding. We went back to Yvonne Soong who delivered my 3 babies and went to Thomson hospital. Cost is definitely more but we felt better supported. The following scan and she assured us that we would have a healthy baby even though baby Channery was a very small built ( like the granny).
Channery was really a lucky baby, She was born with the umbilical cord around her neck three times. If we decided not to induce her earlier, she might be strangled to death? We wanted a baby girl and we have her. She is a stubborn girl and still very small in size but she is growing. She is my gift and we are glad we made the decision to have another baby even though sometimes she can be quite a handful.
The decision to be a stay home mum is good as I get to enjoy their growing years..
The parents wanted the best for their disabled daughter and yet there were many frustrations. Mother uprooted family to California whereby there was a schoo for down sydrome kids. Mother thought the schooling would made her child better but it was just to teach them basic social skills and would not improve their mental abilities. Mother neglected the other 3 siblings as she devoted her time to her disabled daughter. Puberty sets in and the child wanted to have a family too. Parents made the decision to send her to an all girl institution whereby she mingled with the other girls her age and awa from boys.
When I was in the university, Joe and I were able to mingle and understand these group of disability kids as we were in the Welfare Services Club. The club had groups that interact with kids from various disabilities group. To have kids with disabilities can be very stressful for parents.
When I was conceiving Channery, the blood test showed that she might be a down sydrome kid. I was 4 and a half month pregnant and so what if she was? Am I supposed to go ahead and abort her? Joe and I decided that we would not go for further test and let nature take its own course. We did however change my KK hospital gynae as he was not caring and understanding. We went back to Yvonne Soong who delivered my 3 babies and went to Thomson hospital. Cost is definitely more but we felt better supported. The following scan and she assured us that we would have a healthy baby even though baby Channery was a very small built ( like the granny).
Channery was really a lucky baby, She was born with the umbilical cord around her neck three times. If we decided not to induce her earlier, she might be strangled to death? We wanted a baby girl and we have her. She is a stubborn girl and still very small in size but she is growing. She is my gift and we are glad we made the decision to have another baby even though sometimes she can be quite a handful.
The decision to be a stay home mum is good as I get to enjoy their growing years..
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Communication breakdown
Somehow people will have communication breakdown and ruin their relationship with one another. As long as one side refuses to back down, there is no way of reconcilation. I think people should try to forgive others and their lives will be easier. In fact there are many people in my lives whom I think have taken advantage of me but somehow I choose to treat the experiences as lessons and forgive them. Dwelling on the past is no good for us. Letting go and you will have a better life. When I think negative thoughts, I will remember the story of 2 monks.
Once there were 2 monks. A Abbot and his disciple. One day they went out to ask for alms and they met a beautiful lady by the river. The lady was fretting how to cross the river even though it was just a shallow river. She was afraid of wetting her shoes. She asked if the 2 monks can help her to cross the river. The disciple thought due to modesty reason, the answer is no but the abbot told the lady he would carry her across. And so he did- piggy back the lady over.
When they were at the other side of the river, the lady said her thanks and they parted. The abbot was surprised to find his usual chatty disciple keeping his mouth shut. Guess what? The disciple was brooding why his master took advantage of the lady even though they were supposed to be "free from all desires". "nan2 nu3 shou4 shou4 bu4 qin1" the abbot had done a most sinful thing.
From that day onwards, the young disciple kept to himself. One month later, he finally broke his silence and confronted his master of his behaviour last month.
The abbot needed some time to recall what had happened. He let out a laugh and said," On that day, I only see a person in need. To me that is only a good deed. When I say good bye to the lady She was just a soul that need assistance in my memory and I have no recollection of the event until you mention it.
You on the other hand had carried the burden for a whole month. That must be really hard on you. It was no wonder you can;t eat or sleep well for the past month."
You can never believe in others or their abilities if you don;t trust them.
Try trusting others and many good things will come your way.
Once there were 2 monks. A Abbot and his disciple. One day they went out to ask for alms and they met a beautiful lady by the river. The lady was fretting how to cross the river even though it was just a shallow river. She was afraid of wetting her shoes. She asked if the 2 monks can help her to cross the river. The disciple thought due to modesty reason, the answer is no but the abbot told the lady he would carry her across. And so he did- piggy back the lady over.
When they were at the other side of the river, the lady said her thanks and they parted. The abbot was surprised to find his usual chatty disciple keeping his mouth shut. Guess what? The disciple was brooding why his master took advantage of the lady even though they were supposed to be "free from all desires". "nan2 nu3 shou4 shou4 bu4 qin1" the abbot had done a most sinful thing.
From that day onwards, the young disciple kept to himself. One month later, he finally broke his silence and confronted his master of his behaviour last month.
The abbot needed some time to recall what had happened. He let out a laugh and said," On that day, I only see a person in need. To me that is only a good deed. When I say good bye to the lady She was just a soul that need assistance in my memory and I have no recollection of the event until you mention it.
You on the other hand had carried the burden for a whole month. That must be really hard on you. It was no wonder you can;t eat or sleep well for the past month."
You can never believe in others or their abilities if you don;t trust them.
Try trusting others and many good things will come your way.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Mother in law
The very next day after I posted my blog, I suddenly thought of my mother in law. She is now staying alone at her toa payoh flat. She seems quite happy when we called her. As people aged, they tend to want people to listen to them but sometimes the way they put the messages across can be unwelcome by others.
I stayed with her after my marriage as Joe is the only child. She has been educated till Secondary school and yet she had been a housewife all her life. She is very good with housework. I know I can't do many things to her standard but that's natural as I am not her. She now has time to go outings and going to the theatre. Well! it's good as she is liberated from the chores of looking after the grandchildren. Sometimes she would complaine about my children when I came back beat from work and I became very annoyed with her. She meant well and yet the timing can be very wrong.
My MIL sent us birthday cards on our birthdays this year as our birthdays are in the same months. Hers in first week of April and ours at the last week. She was so touched to received greetings from the kids that she quickly went out to buy ours from the shop. she has been sending letters to us too. I think we should start writing letters to her to warm her hearts. It's always nice to receive letters from loved ones. We have emails but she has to rely on paper and pen.
WEll! Joe and I have decided to bring her and the whole family for a trip outside Singapore when we go back in DEC.
Well! I am grateful to her for accepting me as the daughter in law and helping me to take care of my household and children when I was working. She deserves our love and respect so I have to learn to do my part. She is lonely and maybe she is attention seeking as we have not showered her with enough love and care.
I stayed with her after my marriage as Joe is the only child. She has been educated till Secondary school and yet she had been a housewife all her life. She is very good with housework. I know I can't do many things to her standard but that's natural as I am not her. She now has time to go outings and going to the theatre. Well! it's good as she is liberated from the chores of looking after the grandchildren. Sometimes she would complaine about my children when I came back beat from work and I became very annoyed with her. She meant well and yet the timing can be very wrong.
My MIL sent us birthday cards on our birthdays this year as our birthdays are in the same months. Hers in first week of April and ours at the last week. She was so touched to received greetings from the kids that she quickly went out to buy ours from the shop. she has been sending letters to us too. I think we should start writing letters to her to warm her hearts. It's always nice to receive letters from loved ones. We have emails but she has to rely on paper and pen.
WEll! Joe and I have decided to bring her and the whole family for a trip outside Singapore when we go back in DEC.
Well! I am grateful to her for accepting me as the daughter in law and helping me to take care of my household and children when I was working. She deserves our love and respect so I have to learn to do my part. She is lonely and maybe she is attention seeking as we have not showered her with enough love and care.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Counting my blessings
This afternoon I suddenly had a thought. Who are those that I wanna thank until this time of life? Actually there are so many people that I am truly grateful to.
My parents definitely as they brought me up to be who I am. My siblings who were there to add spices and laughter in my growing years. We were not as close as we were when we were younger but I know I can depend on them when I need their support. I also would like to thank my lovely husband Joe who is still very patient and still dotes me a lot even though i can be so" xiao" sometimes. I also would like to thank my children who have taught me to be a better person. They have been there when I need a big hug and kisses. I do complained a lot about them but if I don't do that, I will vent all anger on them. This is my way of releasing stress.
Of course, I have to thank some special friends who have not abondon me even though I could be so caught up in my life that I neglect them. First on the list is Hong. We had been friends for so long that it's kinda scary to think that we know each other for so long. Our paths have gone really different and yet just a phone call and we somehow can connect. Gemini and Taurus not quite a perfect match but we still going strong. Somehow I am really grateful of her to stand by me for my ups and downs. She is one busy lady and I really appreciate her of remembering me sometimes. Actually many times when I received her emails it kinda brighten up the day to know that many miles away there's one kind soul who is watching out for me. Thank you Hong. I love your big heartedness, your smiles and I look forward to lazing around with you when I go back k.
The other friend that I would like to thank is Irene. She taught me a lot of things and we both are a bit" Aunty"and like to do all the Aunty things together. Surprising we clicked even though we have only known each other for a short period of time. She is one special lady who has taught me many things about RC matters and being there for your family.
Other friends that I would like to thank are Chu Suh, Yet Wah, Mdm Ong Hoi, Ai ling and yoke sim. Iou will not be surprised to know that they were my ex-colleagues. They supported me during my stay in Chongfu and made my stay there more pleasant. To be frank, the environment was quite unbearable if we do not have good friends to support each other. I have not heard from them for a while and I know why. The hectic lifestyle of being a mother, mum and wife can be really stressful. I can email them but can't really know how they are suffering. Let's just hope everyone is fine and happy there in Chongfu.
Not forgetting I am thanking those who have been there for me during my stay at RC and CCC. They have assisted me in so many ways that I really would like to thank them. Up on the list is Alex, Derek, David Tang, Adalene, Adeline, David Sim etc. These volunteers have not only made themselves very busy by serving the community but also been there for others when approached. Salute them for their giving nature and generousity.
I would also like to thank my LP 27 friends especally my Wildfire comrades. People from all walks of life came together to find themselves and find meanings in their own lives. They have taught me many things and the experience is priceless. If I am really rich, I would sponsor people to go for the course to find inner peace and find strength within themselves to conquer life challenges. Not really keeping touch with anyone and yet one phonecall and we probably will be together. The crazy things we do somehow had an effect on me till now, probably till the day I die.
I must also thank my very close friends, The G10 in University. Alice has always been there for me and I am glad she had found her passion for life. The others as far as I know, Hua long being a famous fengshui Master in Sing Ming. I engaged him to see my new place fengshui and he was really sweet to do a thorough job. Hope his business will be brisk. Zhi gang was teaching in Nan qiao the last time we met at Hokkien Huey kuan's teacher;s day dinner. As for the rest, no news from them as I have lost touch with them.
Somehow there are so many people I am thankful to. The list can go on and on. I just hope that at various point of my life, I have brought laughter, love and joy to all. I am unable to engage all but I really hope everyone is enjoying themselves and living life to their fullest. God bless all!
My parents definitely as they brought me up to be who I am. My siblings who were there to add spices and laughter in my growing years. We were not as close as we were when we were younger but I know I can depend on them when I need their support. I also would like to thank my lovely husband Joe who is still very patient and still dotes me a lot even though i can be so" xiao" sometimes. I also would like to thank my children who have taught me to be a better person. They have been there when I need a big hug and kisses. I do complained a lot about them but if I don't do that, I will vent all anger on them. This is my way of releasing stress.
Of course, I have to thank some special friends who have not abondon me even though I could be so caught up in my life that I neglect them. First on the list is Hong. We had been friends for so long that it's kinda scary to think that we know each other for so long. Our paths have gone really different and yet just a phone call and we somehow can connect. Gemini and Taurus not quite a perfect match but we still going strong. Somehow I am really grateful of her to stand by me for my ups and downs. She is one busy lady and I really appreciate her of remembering me sometimes. Actually many times when I received her emails it kinda brighten up the day to know that many miles away there's one kind soul who is watching out for me. Thank you Hong. I love your big heartedness, your smiles and I look forward to lazing around with you when I go back k.
The other friend that I would like to thank is Irene. She taught me a lot of things and we both are a bit" Aunty"and like to do all the Aunty things together. Surprising we clicked even though we have only known each other for a short period of time. She is one special lady who has taught me many things about RC matters and being there for your family.
Other friends that I would like to thank are Chu Suh, Yet Wah, Mdm Ong Hoi, Ai ling and yoke sim. Iou will not be surprised to know that they were my ex-colleagues. They supported me during my stay in Chongfu and made my stay there more pleasant. To be frank, the environment was quite unbearable if we do not have good friends to support each other. I have not heard from them for a while and I know why. The hectic lifestyle of being a mother, mum and wife can be really stressful. I can email them but can't really know how they are suffering. Let's just hope everyone is fine and happy there in Chongfu.
Not forgetting I am thanking those who have been there for me during my stay at RC and CCC. They have assisted me in so many ways that I really would like to thank them. Up on the list is Alex, Derek, David Tang, Adalene, Adeline, David Sim etc. These volunteers have not only made themselves very busy by serving the community but also been there for others when approached. Salute them for their giving nature and generousity.
I would also like to thank my LP 27 friends especally my Wildfire comrades. People from all walks of life came together to find themselves and find meanings in their own lives. They have taught me many things and the experience is priceless. If I am really rich, I would sponsor people to go for the course to find inner peace and find strength within themselves to conquer life challenges. Not really keeping touch with anyone and yet one phonecall and we probably will be together. The crazy things we do somehow had an effect on me till now, probably till the day I die.
I must also thank my very close friends, The G10 in University. Alice has always been there for me and I am glad she had found her passion for life. The others as far as I know, Hua long being a famous fengshui Master in Sing Ming. I engaged him to see my new place fengshui and he was really sweet to do a thorough job. Hope his business will be brisk. Zhi gang was teaching in Nan qiao the last time we met at Hokkien Huey kuan's teacher;s day dinner. As for the rest, no news from them as I have lost touch with them.
Somehow there are so many people I am thankful to. The list can go on and on. I just hope that at various point of my life, I have brought laughter, love and joy to all. I am unable to engage all but I really hope everyone is enjoying themselves and living life to their fullest. God bless all!
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Past few days
My last entry was last Thurday. Friday joe forgot about children's Art lesson and I had to rush out with Channery after receiving Joe's call cause I thought the class was cancelled. We were not that late and children had a lot of fun. They tried using the wheel to do their pottery. They were dirty but truly happy to be able to use the wheel to create their pottery. We had dinner at home as I did not want to spend so much money. I had overspent my allowance by buying a pie maker ( $14.90) and a waffle maker (29.90). These two products were easy to use and end poducts very satisfactory. Children enjoyed their homemade pies and waffle.
Saturday we had waffle for breakfast and after lunch, the children went for their chinese lesson. They had tests and the boys both had 94% and we were really surprised at their results. Anyway, looking at the paper, my sons' standard really worries me. Must think of ways to help them to improve. They did not even do so well for P1 standard. Charlynn had 80% and she was really sad about it. She is really a very self-motivated learner and I do not have to worry about her studies.
Sunday we stayed in and did not go out as Joe and children had caught the flu virus. Chantz had high fever and not advisable to travel. I made them go shopping with me and they grumbled a lot.
Monday Channery caught a cold or the flu virus and she had cough and runny nose. She is still trying to recover from her cold. Been busy trying to clear up the mess at home but not so successful. After that, we had minced pies for dinner as children did not fancy rice and dishes. They had two pies each.
Tuesday I made an effort to clean up as I was really sick of all the mess. quite pleased with the end result of house so clean and tidy. However as ususal, the kids came back and to my horror the house messy again. Chantz came back screaming and shouting and said that he wanted me to fetch him from school. He cooled down after a while in his own room. W had fried chicken wings and curry chicken plus mixed vegetables.
Today I will try to cook lasagne and Assam fish. Joe did not go to school today as Channery cried and clung on to him this morning. Think he did not do much today.
Okay got to go. Take care and god bless.
Saturday we had waffle for breakfast and after lunch, the children went for their chinese lesson. They had tests and the boys both had 94% and we were really surprised at their results. Anyway, looking at the paper, my sons' standard really worries me. Must think of ways to help them to improve. They did not even do so well for P1 standard. Charlynn had 80% and she was really sad about it. She is really a very self-motivated learner and I do not have to worry about her studies.
Sunday we stayed in and did not go out as Joe and children had caught the flu virus. Chantz had high fever and not advisable to travel. I made them go shopping with me and they grumbled a lot.
Monday Channery caught a cold or the flu virus and she had cough and runny nose. She is still trying to recover from her cold. Been busy trying to clear up the mess at home but not so successful. After that, we had minced pies for dinner as children did not fancy rice and dishes. They had two pies each.
Tuesday I made an effort to clean up as I was really sick of all the mess. quite pleased with the end result of house so clean and tidy. However as ususal, the kids came back and to my horror the house messy again. Chantz came back screaming and shouting and said that he wanted me to fetch him from school. He cooled down after a while in his own room. W had fried chicken wings and curry chicken plus mixed vegetables.
Today I will try to cook lasagne and Assam fish. Joe did not go to school today as Channery cried and clung on to him this morning. Think he did not do much today.
Okay got to go. Take care and god bless.
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