e o w Y C n

G'bye 2011, Hello 2012!

2012-01-02T00:50:00.002+08:00

Well. That was a really rough ride that lasted 365 days.

2011 wasn't exactly easy for me and there were countless humps and bumps along the way. I'd to deal with numerous issues at work and with the family. The usual stuff, really. But upon looking back at my tweets and FB status updates, I realised that 70% of them were angst-ridden, edgy, morbid, futile and downright depressing.

I've stopped making New Year resolutions a looooooooooooooong time ago because I break them no sooner than I've made them. So in 2012, I'm not going to hold myself to my own words because I know the effort will prove futile.

However, I'm going to TRY and curb my temper this year and keep chanting "patience" whenever I feel my fuse is about to get blown. That's not a resolution. It's just a "note-to-self".

I have come to a realisation that what matters most in my life right now is my family - the hub and my 3 girls. Together, they've brought me much pain, heartache and joy. And I'm glad that we all managed to make time for each other before 2011 ended.

Our family of 5 enjoyed a little staycation at Carlton Hotel From 30 December 2011 to 1 January 2012. Much like last year, our main aim was to enjoy the breathtaking "live" display.

But before that, the hub and I managed to re-live our pre-kids days by checking in on Friday first because we'd bought tickets to watch Wicked (undoubtedly the most wickedly awesome musical I've watched so far) at Marina Bay Sands.

Just the Two of Us

Room 971

All dressed up for a WICKED night out!

Being the scrooges that we've evolved into (bringing up 3 kids can be a huge strain to the finances), we actually walked back to the hotel after the musical. On foot, it was about 4km. Plus I wore 4-inch heels.

Super Ouch.

The next morning we drove back home to pick up the super-excited kids. With the exception of Xian who'd travelled to Taiwan with my parents, the rest of us didn't get a chance to go overseas on a holiday in 2011, so this staycation at Carlton was the highlight of our year-end celebrations.

After splashing and thrashing in the hotel pool and taking an early 5pm dinner at Raffles City's Din Tai Fung, we got the girls to take a nap so that they could stay up late to catch the fireworks. As usual, resistance from Wei the Terrorliza proved to be the most ferocious - she threw a tantrum and insisted on sleeping on the floor (a surefire sign she's REALLY sleepy). We left her alone as she fussed before she eventually she fell asleep and I carried her to bed.

We also stocked up on snacks, fruits, drinks, sausages, honey-glazed ribs, yogurt and donuts just in case the kids got hungry late in the night.

The 2 hour nap definitely recharged their batteries! Here's what a brief photo-log of our New Year's Eve celebration:

Wei's an angel when she's asleep...

Xian munches on potato chips!

Snack after the nap

Watching The Prince of Persia on TV

Wei's awake! Love the drowsy look...

After freshening up, this lil' firecracker's keen to catch fireworks

Xian's wearing MY shoes! Her feet's only 1 size smaller than mine!

The hub dances with the girls on the way out of the hotel

Waiting (impatiently) for the fireworks display

Waiting, waiting, waiting...

Someone's getting bored

"Mummy! Why so long?!??!?!"

Finally, a photo with my girls!

The smoky sky after 10 minutes of impressive fireworks

Back at the hotel, wearing my heels and joking around

Let's toast to 2012! Non-alcoholic sparkling juice, of course!

Cheers!

The girls are clearly exhausted after a really long day (and night)

Our usual family photo - last picture for the album!

I suppose this will continue to be a family tradition until such time when the girls would most likely opt to spend New Year's Eve with their friends and ditch their boring, uncool parents. (They do grow so fast. Too fast for my liking.)

But I am contented. All the accumulated misery and bitterness in me dissolved in those two days and the realisation dawned on me that my hub and children are the most important people in my life. Everything else is a distant second. Whatever sacrifices I've made and whatever inconveniences I've to put up with for their sake are worth every drop of blood, sweat and tears I've shed in the past decade or so.

Only because they mean the world to me. :)

So here's my wish for everyone in 2012: Happy New Year! Have a wonderful 2012 packed with laughter, happiness, good fortune and great health, and may all your dreams be fulfilled!

The Hobbit Official Trailer #1 - Lord of the Rings Movie (2012) HD

2011-12-22T00:00:00.001+08:00

Oh. My. Freakin' Gawd.

This trailer REALLY REALLY made my day and I can barely wait till December 2012 when it's going to be released!

I read The Hobbit when I was 13 but I picked it up again after I watched the LOTR trilogy (my all-time favourite movies) and everything made a lot more sense after that.

You can bet I'll be watching it - wouldn't miss it for the world! And knowing it's Peter Jackson means there'll be too much material for a 3hour feature film so many scenes will be deleted and released as an extended version.

And you can bet I'll be getting the extended DVD when it's out too!

Long Live Peter Jackson!

Nail this!

2011-12-21T10:42:00.001+08:00

After a particularly tiresome year of putting up with fastidious folks and ridiculous demands that constantly irks me to the core, I decided that I'd give myself a little pampering since 2011 is almost over.

While waiting for Wen to finish her Art class on Monday evening, I got my nails done. The enterprising manicurist suggested I add on some nail art "for just an extra $15.00" to up the glam factor. I'm no fashionista and I'm not really into manicures, rarely indulging in this.

But that little voice inside my head egged me on and so I did it. Here's the evidence:

Pretty Nails!

This nail gel is hardy and chip-free, and it's supposed to last 3 weeks. It's only been 3 days and the-wear-and-tear hasn't set in yet. Not sure if it's really going to be in good condition in 3 weeks but I'll just have to wait and see.

Home Improvement

2011-12-17T00:39:00.003+08:00

Here's what the hub does on a lovely Friday night:

My super-duper hub the handyman, painter, plumber, electrician, carpenter etc.

Once he gets into the "I-wanna-make-home-improvements" mood, nobody can stop him.

He's changed taps, shower-heads, installed new lights (not merely changing the bulbs), fixed the gate and wooden fences, painted the ceilings and walls...the list is endless and he never fails to surprise me with the stuff he does!

I'm not complaining since Mr Fix-It does most things himself (where possible) and saves LOADS of money.

Off With Their Locks!

2011-12-16T00:01:00.000+08:00

In about 3 weeks' time, the girls will head back to school.

Xian's 'been promoted' to upper primary - she'll be in Primary 4. Wen will join her as a newbie in Primary 1 and Wei's moving on to Nursery 2.

MIL figured that since I'm off work this week, it's the most opportune time to bring the girls for their back-to-school haircut. (She also decided to have her greying roots dyed dark brown/black.)

They girls usually visit Auntie Fang at Compassvale Link where she operates her home-based hair salon. She charges SGD5.00 for a haircut (for kids) and that's a real bargain. A couple of months back I brought Xian to my regular hair salon at Serangoon Gardens and I'd to fork out SGD12.00 (or was it SGD24.00?) for a mere trim.

The girls love to visit her home because they can play with her kids (around the same age as my older girls) and watch TV while waiting. Auntie Fang's also quick with her scissoring as she knows how impatient children are when getting their haircut.

Snip! Snip! Snip!

She's good for basic cuts and fuss-free styles, suitable for children. She cut my hair once but I realised that she layered my hair too liberally and the finishing was rather choppy, which made my untidy, wavy mane even messier than usual. Doesn't help that I don't have smooth shiny lustrous locks either.

Anyway, I paid SGD12.00 in total because she charged only SGD2.00 for Wei's fringe trim. Where else can you find such a reasonable rate?!?!??!

The girls are happy with their cuts. And I'm happy because I didn't burn a hole in my pocket. :)

X'mas pressie from me to me

2011-12-15T00:52:00.001+08:00

Look what arrived in the mail today!

The Christmas present I bought for myself!

Ta-dah! It's another NBX toy for my collection!

It's Oogie Boogie vs Jack Skellington!

Up close

View from the top

After nearly a month of waiting, my Nightmare Before Christmas Oogie Boogie vs Jack Skellington boxed set arrived!

I'd spent too much time hemming and hawing over this boxset since last year and I should've gotten it as it cost only USD29.99 then. When I finally decided to give myself a treat and buy the toy this year, the price had risen to USD49.99! And it's a good thing I bought it last month because it now costs *gasp* USD99.95!

Did I hear someone say DAYLIGHT ROBBERY?!?!?! You bet it is!

Yes, I bought it from Amazon.com and shipping to the USA vpost office cost me an additional USD11.95 - which wasn't much of a big deal till I realised that the international shipping charges from USA to Singapore set me back SGD102.50. After conversion, I eventually paid SGD183.60 for this NBX toy.

It's my most expensive toy to date - mostly due to the shipping charges that I'd to fork out.

And I very nearly didn't get it because for some strange reason, the packaged was returned TWICE to the sender (NECA) and they were equally puzzled. I didn't have any problems when I bought my Nightmare Before Christmas Lock, Shock & Barrel Bathtub boxed set last year from Amazon, so I couldn't understand why there was a problem. Disappointed I was and I half expected that I'd have to cancel my order and ask for refund.

But all went well. And now I've added another toy to my NBX collection which is housed in my office because I've run out of space at home.

I'm a happy mumsy. Very happy indeed. Happy enough to forget about the emotional tug-of-war that's clawing at my mental defenses for the last few weeks. Like I said before, it takes very little to make me smile.

Right now, I'm beaming.

Merry Christmas to Me!

Que Sera Sera

2011-12-14T22:28:00.003+08:00

It's the simple things in life that bring joy to our hearts.

I can't speak for everyone else, but that holds true for me. Hugs and kisses from my lovely daughters are always a welcome gesture to brighten up a wearisome day.

Not so the chorus of disapproval and daily reports of their mischief that usually follow immediately after.

I wish and wish and wish I've reached a stage where I'm immune to the mutterings. Unfortunately, this all-encompassing aura of negativity constantly gnaws at my calcium-depleted bones and despite my resolve to remain unaffected, I'm too much of an emotional creature to wave it away.

At this point, I've all but given up trying to appease and please. Whatever I've done has never been satisfactory. I've taken it in my stride for the past decade but the walls are crumbling, and I'm losing my patience and temper more frequently.

So I've decided to adopt a "whatever" attitude and a new theme song via the evergreen Doris Day :)

The song never fails to put me in a happy mood - it was what my mum used to sing to me when I was younger, so I guess it's like a "comfort song" and it works much like how chocolate is my "comfort food".

From this moment on, I'm going to try humming this tune whenever I get agitated. And perhaps this will bring about a certain sense of serenity to my otherwise unbalanced emotional state.

I've got to try something right?

So yeah. Que Sera Sera.

December's Here

2011-12-02T15:03:00.000+08:00

I'm not going to offer any apologies for my absence.

The only reason why I don't pen my thoughts is because I can't squeeze out the time to do so. Work's been piling up and I'm looking forward to the mid-semester break coming up in about 2 weeks' time.

The kids are also on vacation so this means every moment I can spare is spent with them.

24 hours is never sufficient but I shouldn't be greedy since everyone gets the same number of hours, no matter if you're Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II, U.S. President Barack Obama or German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

So the only reason I've time to type this is because I'm waiting for Terrorliza to finish her (very) late lunch before we head down to GV Bishan to catch Happy Feet 2.

Truthfully, I'm not really in a mood to watch a happy-feel-good animation for kids. My moody angsty self has taken over and I'd much prefer to curl up somewhere quiet (i.e. away from everyone) to read a book. It's one of those days where I'd rather keep my own company because I'm terrible to be around.

Anyway.

My younger girls have been pestering us to watch Happy Feet 2. Since Xian's gone on a holiday to Taiwan with my folks, the hub and I figured we should do give Wen and Wei a little treat so they wouldn't feel neglected.

Ok, the girls are ready. I should get going. Happy Feet 2, here we come!

TODAYonline | World | Dad kills 3-year-old by stuffing him in a washing machine

2011-11-29T12:43:00.000+08:00

TODAYonline | World | Dad kills 3-year-old by stuffing him in a washing machine

It's a cruel world.

Millions of child-less couples are dying for a baby.

Yet some who're blessed with children are killing their own flesh and blood.

This case exposes human nature's extreme cruelty. According to the reports, the inhumane father put the boy naked into the washing machine "to punish him for getting into trouble at nursery school."

Pardon my language, but WHAT THE FUCK?

How can the demented man inflict such deathly punishment on a 3 year-old boy? Of course the kid will get into trouble! He's so young! Which child has NEVER gotten into trouble at school? It's all part and parcel of growing up!

For crying out loud, the boy was only 3!?!?!?!!

And then there's the murderous mother who microwaved her baby.

It's frightening that the human race, once thought to be superior, has evolved into such a beastly specimen. I dread to think what fate beholds us all. Perhaps this is a sign of times to come.

Hoobastank - The Reason

2011-11-04T01:56:00.001+08:00

Sometimes I need to remind myself to let all the frustrations go.

And the 4 reasons for me to do so.

The Reason

I'm not a perfect person
There's many things I wish I didn't do
But I continue learning
I never meant to do those things to you
And so I have to say before I go
That I just want you to know

I've found a reason for me
To change who I used to be
A reason to start over new
and the reason is you

I'm sorry that I hurt you
It's something I must live with everyday
And all the pain I put you through
I wish that I could take it all away
And be the one who catches all your tears
Thats why i need you to hear

I've found a reason for me
To change who I used to be
A reason to start over new
and the reason is You

and the reason is You [x3]

I'm not a perfect person
I never meant to do those things to you
And so I have to say before I go
That I just want you to know

I've found a reason for me
To change who I used to be
A reason to start over new
and the reason is you

I've found a reason to show
A side of me you didn't know
A reason for all that I do
And the reason is you

October's Over!

2011-10-31T22:58:00.005+08:00

October's been a mad-cap month.

Both Wen and Wei were down with Chicken Pox. There was an outbreak in their kindergarten and Wen fell victim first before Wei contracted it almost 2 weeks later. And in the middle of it all, my domestic helper went home for 2 weeks to visit her family! So I toggled between being a full-time homemaker on some days and a full-time working mum on other days when I couldn't take official leave because of work responsibilities.

I was really very fortunate to have both MIL and FIL (who're staying with us) help out. We worked out an informal system to get us through the 2 weeks. MIL did all the cooking, sweeping and magic-mopping. FIL was her trusty assistant and he folded the clothes and washed the dishes (on the days I was in office). I was in charge of the laundry, washed the toilets, fed the dogs, picked up dog-poo and washed/scrubbed the yard after they pee-ed and poo-ed, swept the dead leaves, and watered the plants the old-fashion way (using the watering can and scooping up water from our fish pond). The hub did all the heavy-duty work and house repairs. He trimmed the towering bamboo plants, vacuumed the whole house and did everything else that nobody could or wanted to do.

In all honesty, I totally suck at housework. My sub-standard quality can never match up to expectations and I'm not organised enough to run through the chore cycle in a systematic manner. So I'd haphazardly complete the tasks and leave traces of "unfinished business" to periodically answer my emails because I was working from home.

A typical scenario would be this: Stuff clothes into the washing machine and work on some documents before the wash cycle is completed. Sometimes, the laundry is ready before I'm done. To me, it's about optimising my time and multi-tasking. After all, The clothes won't walk away right?

That's what I thought but I was sooooooo wrong. Without any warning, my ever-efficient MIL and FIL would take the laundry out and hang them out before I realised that the clothes had indeed scooted off to the 3rd floor to be sun-dried at our balcony.

Really, they can't stand for an idle moment and probably think I'm trying to shirk my responsibilities. I just prefer to work on the tasks at my own speed and time. Actually, I do enjoy washing the dishes, cleaning the toilets, washing/scrubbing the yard, doing the laundry and any bit of chores relating to water. For obvious reasons, I stay out of the kitchen when MIL is around because she's a waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay better cook than I will ever be. And there's no way I can whip up tasty Chinese dishes like she can.

On the other hand, the hub's a perfect house-hubby. He's obviously well-trained and can work twice my speed, with double the results. Plus the guy cooks better than I can. Impressive, right? I pale in comparison and I make a terrible homemaker.

That's why I'm sticking to my day job.

And that's why I'm so grateful my helper's back. :D

All I can say is that I've new-found respect for stay-at-home mums without domestic help. I don't know how they manage household chores with child-minding responsibilities. It's a real challenge to even get through the day without screaming in frustration when the kids make a ruckus while you're trying to tidy up the place.

My recent memories as a semi-professional homemaker, albeit short, is enough to haunt me for the next few months, no, years! I'm definitely in no hurry to consider swapping my red pen for a frying pan. Give me a bunch of rowdy students any time!

Thanks Steve!

2011-10-06T17:12:00.003+08:00

I was a little shocked when I opened my Safari browser this morning and saw this:

Source: www.apple.com

I may not know the man personally, but I'm one of the billions of people in the world who've come to know him through his brainchild - the iconic Apple company - and the amazing gadgets and products under the Apple umbrella. His creative genius notwithstanding, Steve Jobs is also a fighter in his career and personal life. His battle with pancreatic cancer ended on 5 October 2011 when he finally succumbed to the disease after many years.

At this very moment, I'm typing on Zac my Mac. I'm also charging my iPod nano while writing this. I haven't got the iPhone or iPad (yet) but I'm planning to get the iPhone when my Nokia dies on me and my contract's up for renewal. I'm a Mac believer and the only reason why I haven't splurged on getting the full Mac range of products is because it's expensive raising 3 kids and I'll spend only what I have to. For me, getting an iPad or Macbook are "wants", not "needs".

Rest In Peace Steve Jobs. Thanks for revoluntionising the world with your creative and innovative brilliance and creation of the iWorld. You will definitely be missed.

Source: www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/steve-jobs/8809997/Steve-Jobs-dies-live-blog.html

Here's to 10 years and more

2011-10-01T19:58:00.053+08:00

The hub made a casual remark about the number of special occasions we celebrate in a year. Excluding family birthdays, we also make it a point to remind ourselves of the life-time commitment we pledged to each other: our engagement (8 August 1996), official wedding anniversary (25 May 1999) and our Chinese customary wedding dinner (30 September 2001).

Yes, we've created this calendar of events for us to remember, for better of for worse, the moments we decided to legally become man and wife. Naturally, an excuse for us to steal some moments away from the kids to spend some couple-time together.

Unfortunately, it's also become a real headache in the gift-giving department when we've got so many reasons to buy (and receive) presents.

This year marks our 10th customary wedding anniversary - the year we officially moved in and stayed together as a married couple. Since I wasn't able to take leave on our actual wedding anniversary, we planned for an earlier celebration. I volunteered to plan for the day and after some research, decided to make a reservation at Absinthe, a French restaurant along Bukit Pasoh Road off Chinatown.

However, whatever plans for the day had to be scrapped because my suspicion that Wen's infected with chicken pox was confirmed when I brought her to the doctor's.

I guess that's the price of parenthood. Not that the hub or I really minded.

We did continue dinner as planned and arrived promptly at Absinthe. We were the first patrons and got the best seats - away from the main door.

Just the two of us - our romantic dinner

The food, though pretty good, wasn't remarkably fantastic. For entrée, we ordered Foie Gras Poêlé, Blinis tiède et Cerises Griottes (Pan-Fried Foie Gras with Warm Blinis and Morello Cherries) which tasted a little overcooked and burnt at the edges:

Foie Gras Poêlé, Blinis tiède et Cerises Griottes (Pan-Fried Foie Gras with Warm Blinis and Morello Cherries)

Our main course was Côte de Bœuf “Wagyu”, Gratin Dauphinois, Légumes à la Vapeur, Sauce Béarnaise (Rib of Australian Wagyu, Potato Gratin, Steamed Vegetables and Béarnaise Sauce). We were pleased with our choice as the beef was cooked to succulent perfection, but the portions were HUGE and enough for 4 adults! It was a little embarrassing when I asked if we could take-away the remaining meat but the waitress didn't bat an eyelid when I made the request. Possibly because we're not the first customers who couldn't finish the food.

Cheers!

Côte de Bœuf “Wagyu”, Gratin Dauphinois, Légumes à la Vapeur, Sauce Béarnaise (Rib of Australian Wagyu, Potato Gratin, Steamed Vegetables and Béarnaise Sauce)

So much left-overs!

Our "tar-pow"

When Chef François made his rounds, we revealed that we were celebrating our anniversary. After our main course (which we managed to eat only half!), we decided to forego dessert. That's when the staff surprised us with a complimentary sweets and a surprise:

Complementary sweets

Special dessert on the house!

A grinning hub

I survived 10 years of living with the hub (and his family)

Just before we left, the friendly staff took a photo of us.


10 years!

As the night was still young, we drove to Vivo City and watched Johnny English Reborn, a spy comedy starring rubber-face Rowan Atkinson. After a heavy meal, we really wanted a no-brainer light-hearted barrel of laughs to complete the day.

Back home to our Haven@Arif

I really didn't expect to celebrate the occasion again, especially since I was busy with the Supplementary Board of Examiners' meeting on Friday, our actual anniversary date. When I got back to the office after the 2 hour plus meeting at about 5.30pm, I was greeted by this:

Surprise!

The hub had sneaked into my office to place the bouquet on my table. The door was locked but my new colleague Y had happened to walk past and she accessed the room with her staff card. :)

When I called the hub, he'd left and was busy in the new office his company was moving to (which is about less than 10 minutes drive from my work place). He ended off the call with "See you later for dinner!"

So we went on our second dinner date, albeit a little late at 9pm, at Clarke Quay. This time, we settled for something less pricey at Fremantle Seafood Market.

a glass of white wine

My Strawberry Daiquiri

Hearty Seafood Platter

Cod Fish & Chips

The hub wanted to catch a midnight movie but I was exhausted and fell asleep in the car on our way home. He was tickled when he pulled up at the driveway and I was still knocked out.

Yes, my system's not accustomed to any intrusion of alcohol, regardless of the amount. In my case, the Strawberry Daiquiri was the culprit. Silly, isn't it?

Anyway, I stayed awake long enough to pass him his presents - 10 for 10 years of living together as a wedded couple.

10 presents for 10 years!

Even I can't believe that we've survived 10 years of living with each other and putting up with each other's nonsense. Some believe that I'm happily married but in reality, every couple has issues. There's no such thing as a perfect relationship and we've got to constantly work at it. Sometimes I feel that I'm at the losing end and have to fight hard to maintain a positive outlook. Other times I admit my faults and wish I could change things.

But we are mere mortals and imperfection's built into our DNA. This understanding of human nature is what keeps me going, knowing that while we often strive to become better, we'll never be the best. I don't lose sleep over this, accepting whatever that comes my way, rebelling where I deem fit because it's too tiring to fight every single battle.

That's my strategy and that's how I've done it.

A Perfect 10

2011-09-30T19:43:00.009+08:00

In 10 years we’ve lived as man and wife

Just 9 days we’ve been apart

8 is a special day in August 96

7 a number close to the heart

6 countries we’ve travelled thus far

5 music concerts we've attended

4 may remain an elusive dream

3 beautiful girls we lovingly created

Add 2 faithful canines

Our perfect home's almost done

Just 1 final puzzle piece left to add

My dearest hub, you're the one

Happy 10th Customary Wedding Anniversary!

Teo Yuan Ching
30 September 2011

Copyright © 2011 Teo Yuan Ching

TODAYonline | Singapore | Taking the stress out of school

2011-09-22T19:05:00.003+08:00

TODAYonline | Singapore | Taking the stress out of school

As an educator and a mother of three school-going kids, I naturally take a keen interest in all matters and policies related to education.

My first reaction to this bit of news? Skepticism.

After all these years of rote-learning and emphasis on grades/results, it's almost too impossible to believe that our education system's going to make a u-turn and focus on what matters most: the learning process and effectiveness of knowledge acquisition and retention.

I know too well how each individual has a different learning style and how there's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to teaching and learning.

It would indeed be a paradigm shift if we suddenly decide to focus on the formative approach rather than a summative assessment that will ultimately determine the fate of each child. I for one suffered terribly because I detested examinations and never seemed to achieve much success in scoring good grades during these nerve-wrecking periods. But I noticed that I would get excellent grades for coursework subjects or project-based modules where I applied my knowledge and turned theory into application.

For those, like me, who perform better consistently but stumble at the final hurdle, an education system that emphasises less on academic achievements and results, and more on a holistic development, will definitely be a welcome change.

I'm all for the overhaul of our stringent and rigid education system. But right now, I'm just going to take a wait-and-see approach to see how it all pans out.

English Rules: Go back to Basics

2011-09-05T10:01:00.011+08:00

TODAYonline | Voices | 'Good English starts at home'

Singapore's English is in a sorry state.

And I think it's going to take more than campaigns to raise the level of English here on our Sunny little island.

It's going to take a revolution.

Sure, it's the parents' responsibility to address the deterioration of English in Singapore, but the education ministry has to consider the causes of the falling standards as well. For starters, some English teachers aren't linguistically trained properly and it's amazing how they can stand in front of a class to teach English when they aren't well-versed in the language themselves.

I fully agree that the learning environment is crucial. Both my parents speak fluent, grammatical English. Of course they use Singlish sometimes but they always knew when to "switch" when the occasion calls for it. That's how I was brought up and I that's how I use English as well.

When I'm with my kids, I try as much as possible to correct them when they lapse into Singlish or speak ungrammatically. But it's an uphill battle because it's usually me against the other significant influences, including the school. My girls started picking up the sing-song twang of Singlish when they stepped into school probably because most of their friends (and some teachers) speak in that manner. And when you're constantly in a particular environment, it's inevitable that your speech patterns will alter somewhat.

So the billion dollar question is this: How can we move ahead and undo the damage that was created some 20 years ago when they threw out some rules that worked?

First order of business is to reinstate old-school spelling drills. Get rid of text language and social media versions of words and phrases like 'LOL', 'FTW', 'IDC', 'IDK' etc. I'm all for abbreviations and I use them too. But students need to know the appropriate times to use them. Definitely not for their essays and school work. I've lost count on the number of times I've to circle in red over 'btw', 'u', 'i', 'e' in my students' work.

Next is to force-feed grammar rules at the foundation level. I remember memorising idioms, phrases, antonyms, synonyms, homonyms, collective nouns and was tested on a weekly basis. It helped tremendously.

Last, but certainly not the least, is to encourage parents to try and cut out Singlish and refrain from mixing English with other languages. I hate it when people say things like "Later wo (I) call ni (you)" or "I think so ba". If possible, eradicate the 'la', 'lor', 'meh', 'sia' from daily speech.

We'll need to take baby steps to re-establish some good habits and practices at home. On a larger scale, the Ministry of Education should review the way English is taught in schools, especially at the foundation level.

Easier said than done, of course. But my stand is that when things go horribly wrong, we should always go back to the basics. And start from scratch.

Words before midnight

2011-09-05T00:07:00.001+08:00

It's five minutes to midnight.

Yet my brain refuses to rest. It's always the case when I'm in my "research" mode - reading new material that I'll be incorporating into my lessons next term.

I'm always excited when I'm given a chance to run a subject - that's when I can structure my lessons and decide the flow of the classes.

But I've a long day ahead. Meetings scheduled at 9am, and another at 9.30am, before the examination scripts for Corporate Events Management (CEM) come in around noon.

Then I'll be huddled in my cubicle with the curtains drawn. It'll be marking in progress.

So I'm going to take my leave now because I *need* the rest and a clear mind when I whip out my red pen tomorrow afternoon.

In exactly 12 hours' time, the fate of 80 plus CEM students will rest in four teachers.

Mess is my Middle Name

2011-09-02T11:24:00.003+08:00

I've to seriously clear my work station! Even I can'... on Twitpic

Stepped into my work station today and realised what a disorganised space it has become.

Behold! My Messy Work Station

Piles of papers, files, folders and stationery strewn all over the table. Bags and boxes on the floors. Yes, I'm a clutter-bug.

I absolutely need to get my act together and clean this mess up!

Admittedly, I've never been Miss Neat and the hub never fails to remind me about how I can never find my stuff. And towards the end of the semester, when we're all scrambling to meet project deadlines, my work station becomes a dumping ground.

Now I'm impatiently waiting for Monday's Corporate Events Management exam to be over so I can get cracking on the marking before I begin on my exam results processing next Friday.

OK, I need a good day or two to throw away ANCIENT projects and assessments that I've been hording for far too long.

It's going to be Operation Clean Table in a week's time.

Teaching Heartware

2011-09-01T12:54:00.005+08:00

It's the first day of September and as far as I can remember, it's always been associated with Teachers' Day.

In many of kindergartens, primary and secondary schools (and perhaps the junior colleges), there will be celebrations and no lessons are conducted. And by now, my younger two would have been home (it's 11.15am) while Xian just called to inform me that she's finished school and managed to locate her school bus.

All my kids brought little gifts for their teachers yesterday, although a few declined to accept them.

Over at my work place, all's quiet as the examinations are still on-going. Many of my colleagues (including myself) are buried in marking, tidying up administrative documents or getting ready for examination processing. I left sticky post-it notepads for my colleagues as tokens of appreciation for their boundless energy and enthusiasm in their efforts to shape the future generations.

A few students posted on my Facebook wall or tweeted their Teachers' Day wishes. It's always nice to get a simple 'Thank You' from them. A little goes a long way.

To all my fellow educators, enjoy this significant day where we pay tribute to all the teachers who've made an impact in our lives. Several of these remarkable beings must have inspired us to become educators ourselves.

For me, I will always fondly remember my Primary 5 English teacher, Mrs Jennifer Tan, who was also my form teacher. She appeared strict but she was a really kind and gentle soul and she was the one who nurtured my love for the English Language. Unlike some other teachers, Mrs Tan never gave preferential treatment to the "good" students. Suddenly, average kids like myself were given opportunities which were usually "reserved" for the academically brilliant. She taught with her heart and we could feel her warmth and sincerity.

Mrs Jennifer Tan made a difference in my life.

The other unforgettable teacher was my Secondary 3 English and Literature teacher Ms Barbara Clark who, coincidentally, was also my form teacher. She's funny, witty, spunky and made Literature fun! I'll always remember her reading of George Orwell's Animal Farm: "Four legs goooood, two legs baaa-aaaa-aaaa-aaaad!" Ms Clark was, for the lack of a better word, "unconventional" and "non-traditional". She's probably the first teacher whom many of us acknowledged as our friend, someone who could relate to us at our level.

Ms Barbara Clark made a difference in my life.

Needless to say, both Mrs Tan and Ms Clark greatly inspired me and I'm honoured to have been taught by them. Both of them are my role models and they've influenced my teaching style. If I am ever considered a good teacher, then I would say I have even greater teachers because I learnt from them.

Teaching should always be from the heart. And these days, students can clearly tell if their teachers genuinely care about them or are just doing a job for the heck of it.

It's been 10 years in this education industry. Although I do miss the rush of corporate life at times, I don't regret trading my business suits for "less intimidating" office wear. I enjoy the classroom environment and interacting with my students. Yes, I definitely know where my heart is. I want to give back what I took from all my wonderful teachers.

Perhaps I too can make a difference in someone's life.

What a difference 7269 make

2011-08-29T10:15:00.105+08:00

Singaporeans decided on Saturday that Dr Tony Tan will be President come 1 September 2011.

Here's the final tally:

Dr Tony Tan (TT): 744,397 (35.19%)
Dr Tan Cheng Bock (TCB): 737128 (34.85%)
Mr Tan Jee Say (TJS): 529,732 (25.04%)
Mr Tan Kin Lian (TKL): 103,931 (4.9%)

Image courtesy of http://news.insing.com

I guess this myopic nation realised that a pair of glasses was more important than having shade, a heart or a happy hand.

It was indeed a close race to the finish and I think PE2011 sent a strong signal to the ruling party: Many Singaporeans have roused from the slumber in the poppy field and will now challenge the authoritarian style of old-school indoctrination. We will no longer sit around and wait to be told what to do.

Anything can happen within the next 5 years before the General Elections and that's why PM Lee and his team must scrutinise every policy, every message and every communication that they roll out to win over the hearts and minds of Singaporeans.

Even then, there'll always be 25% who'll remain defiant and staunchly opposed to the current ruiling People's Action Party (PAP), as proven by Tan Jee Say's credible showing of 25.04%. For a relatively newcomer to politics, his 1/4 slice of the pie is worth taking note of. Of course he has his fair share of detractors, many Tan Cheng Bock fans who blame him for snatching away what they perceive to be votes from non-Tony Tan supporters.

Indeed, when Tan Jee Say received the Certificate of Eligibility to contest, many pro-opposition Singaporeans rallied around to drum up support and encouragement. So while some may view this negatively, I believe this gave many others a choice they'd be more comfortable with rather than being forced to pick another they didn't care for.

Tony Tan is set to become Singapore's 7th Head of State. He's got an uphill task knowing that he marginally won with just 35%. Which means 65% Singaporeans didn't choose him and when the next PE rolls round, he could lose the job altogether if the nation doesn't think he deserves it.

All the best Dr Tony Tan. You've got a long road ahead of you.

TODAYonline | Hot News | This is not the end, says Tan Cheng Bock

2011-08-28T19:52:00.003+08:00

TODAYonline | Hot News | This is not the end, says Tan Cheng Bock

Indeed it isn't.

Not when only 0.34% separated the two Dr Tans.

7,629. That's the margin of victory. Or loss.

Depending on how you view it.

If you ask me, I'd say that the good (better) doctor lost.

But my opinions don't matter now. And we'll just wait for another 6 years to watch the Battle Royal: Dr Tan vs Dr Tan (Part 2).

Cutting Back

2011-08-22T18:55:00.000+08:00

I made a promise to cut back on my social media activities.

So if this space is inactive for a while, my sincere apologies.

I intend to keep my end of the bargain.

Till then, take care y'all!

Failure

2011-08-20T09:14:00.001+08:00

I've failed as a wife and mother.

I can't seem to get my priorities right and get easily distracted by frivolous things like silly FB games, Twitter, blogging and now, PE2011.

The hub's furious. He's livid. And I can't blame him.

Xian's 3rd Term CA is on Monday and instead of helping her revise her work, I'm spending hours on end in front of the computer, trying to get little nuggets of information about PE2011 and playing mind-numbing games. Such an irresponsible mother. I cannot justify my actions at all.

Th hub's right about my addiction to social media and the constant flow of information I get inundated with. It's never been a more thrilling time, with changes happening in society and the birth of digital age. And I embrace this new era because I've suddenly found a little corner where I can creep to seek refuge from the harsh realities of life. In truth, I'm sick of my responsibilities - at work and at home - and I desperately need some time-out. But I can't just drop everything and run away. I'm just trying to look for an outlet to cope with my own stress.

It's getting ridiculous. The more upset I am about work and family, the more I just want to plunge into an alternative space where I can escape from everything. I'm literally struggling to keep my head above the water. Being a mother is the toughest job I've ever taken on, and I'm beginning to realise that I'm too selfish and ill-disciplined to ever be the right role model for my kids.

But this is my outlet - writing - and it's the most effective way for me to get my emotions off my chest. I usually feel a lot better after I've poured my woes.

Ironically, it's also threatening my relationships with my loved ones.

Right now, I'm lost. Hopelessly lost.

Vote for Tan!

2011-08-20T08:08:00.001+08:00

For some strange reason, I'm getting really excited about next week's Presidential Elections.

Exactly a week from now, Singapore will witness history in the making as one of the Tans will emerge as the People's Choice.

The trillion dollar question is, of course, who will it be?

One of the Dr Tans? Their close affiliations with the People's Action Party (PAP) will win them votes from loyal PAP supporters but none from those who want an independent, objective voice.

As for the other two Tans, one has never contested in an election while the other was in the opposition camp. Singaporeans who prefer a neutral President, or at least one who'll provide "checks and balances", might swing in their favour.

2011 proved that Singaporeans are no longer apathetic, and that more have come forward in a bid to make a difference. I would very much like to volunteer my services but can't because of family commitments. Perhaps in years to come when the kids are older, I'll be able to find some time to help out in small ways.

I can only urge my fellow Singaporeans to vote wisely and no matter what happens, don't spoil your vote. In a four-cornered fight, every single vote counts.

PE2011: President Tan

2011-08-19T17:04:00.108+08:00

This is an interesting political year for Singapore.

In May, we experienced a watershed General Election (GE).

Come 27 August 2011, Singaporeans will once again head to the polls and this time we will vote for our 7th president of the republic.

Will the Presidential Election (PE) be any different? Judging by the social media storm that's brewing online, sentiments are at an all time high: the people want to speak up and be heard. Never before has Singapore seen such a keenly contested PE where not two or three but four candidates are racing to win over the hearts and minds of Singaporeans.

Initially, many believed it would be a 3-corner fight between former Deputy Prime Minister Dr Tony Tan, former MP Dr Tan Cheng Bock and former NTUC Income Chief Tan Kin Lian. But then former Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) Opposition Member Tan Jee Say unexpectedly received a Certificate of Eligibility to run the race and joined the fray.

Now, it's a Battle of the Four Tans.

Sure, the votes will be diluted and it's expected that the next President win with less than 50% of the majority and perhaps one or even two candidates may even lose their S$48,000 deposit should they fail to secure 12.5% of the votes.

But that's not deterring any of the four candidates and on Nomination Day, all turned up and successfully filed their papers. Last night all four made their first Presidential Candidate Broadcast over free-to-air radio and television platforms.

Here are the four potential candidates presented in alphabetical order:

It's going to an exciting fight to the finish. Campaigning has started. May the best Tan win.

As for me, I'm voting with my heart.

Me Mumsy. Me HULK.

2011-08-13T23:50:00.002+08:00

This entry was created on my Nokia X3-02 over two months ago while I was sitting by the teaching pool at Toa Payoh Swimming Complex, waiting for Wen to finish her swimming lesson. While deleting data from my phone, I chanced upon this and decided to upload it to my blog.

It's the last day of school hols and as usual it's a mad scramble to complete Xian’s holiday homework.

Procrastination is indeed the thief of time. I realised that she's not ready to be entrusted with the responsibility of completing her holiday homework without supervision. And I’m at fault to assume that she'd finished her tasks as claimed. I gave her the benefit of the doubt when she confidently proclaimed she'd completed all her work and failed to check till it was too late.

Will I ever learn? This whole mum gig is certainly not my thing. I'm a work horse when it comes to my own domain and livelihood. But I totally suck at being responsible for my kids. Simply put, I'm just too laid back, ill-disciplined and complacent to monitor their academic progress.

Sometimes I wish I were I little more “pushy” like the average Singaporean parent. My ever-devoted SIL gave up her job to be a stay-at-home mum and her two kids are performing brilliantly at school. They didn’t sprout academic brilliance overnight though – both were drilled with assessments the moment they attended preschool. My SIL is extremely strict with her kids and I’m impressed with how disciplined they’ve turned out to be.

In contrast, my three girls are rowdy, carefree wild dogs running all over the prairie. And now I’m worried that my preference for individualism has inevitably cultivated a trio of ill-disciplined goblins, drifters with aimless ambitions. And should my kids become less-than successful (academically or otherwise), fingers will point my way for having failed to be the role-model they’re supposed to emulate.

So when things don’t turn out the way they should, I must bear the burden that I could have prevent this by being a better parent. One who's able to provide financial and emotional support. One who will exemplify good manners and upright moral conduct. One who will instill in them old-school discipline which, in turn, will equip them with tenacious survival skills.

Such a tall order for someone who’s FAR from perfect.

As I stumble and fumble my way through Parenthood, I wonder if I should take a leaf out of SIL's parenting manual and make more sacrifices for the family. I’m constantly in an emotional turmoil because I want to be there for my kids and have been thinking of slowing down the pace of work. A few of my close friends have made that bold step to work part-time or take some years off their illustrious careers so that they can concentrate on bringing-up their brood.

But every time I sit with my kids to guide them with their homework, I transform into a raging and rampaging Hulk, especially when I can’t understand why they’re not able to accomplish a seemingly simple assignment. I’m infinitely patient with my students and am able to put up with their nonsensical excuses and impertinent behaviour. But my tolerance with my own flesh and blood is practically non-existent and I flare up so easily that it scares the hell out of me.

So if I decide to be a stay-at-home mum, I’m wondering if the situation will improve or deteriorate. My relationship with the girls will be threatened no less, and I don’t want them to fear me. I guess I’m too emotional for my own good. I know I have to STOP making decisions based on how I feel or how others would feel. You’d think that years of marriage (and influence from the hub) would turn me into a reasonable, pragmatic, practical and disciplined individual.

I guess not.

And so my internal debate continues as my selfish pride wages a long-drawn war with my conscience.

The Butcher

2011-08-12T19:29:00.003+08:00

my family will never go hungry. EVER. the hub's prepared... on Twitpic

It's the 7th month of the Chinese calendar. That's when the gates of Hell (and some say Heaven) open and the hungry ghosts roam the earth. Well, this is according to the traditional Chinese Taoists who celebrate the Hungry Ghost Festival.

The hub and his colleagues carried out the rituals of praying to the spirits and burning of the incense sticks, candles, joss papers, hell notes, gold bars, ingots and other paper-made objects depicting wealth and status. I was there to help out although my role was minimal as I'm not too familiar with the customs and traditions.

After that, it was dinner time and that's when my multi-talented hub whipped out the chopper and began cutting up the duck and chicken.

Impressive, eh?

The only essential item missing to complete the butcher look: a dirty white singlet with holes!

Yes, that's a garbage bag he's tied around his waist as a make-shift apron. He'd stained his shirt and couldn't find anything else but the trash bag.

We'll be having another round of prayers and rituals on Sunday - this time for the family. The kids always look forward to the mini "bornfire" outside our front gate as we send gifts and paper money to the underworld visitors.

Trey

2011-08-03T01:19:00.001+08:00

That's the name of my protagonist.

Love the catchy, sporty ring of the name. Researched it and I think it perfectly fits the character I'm developing for my short story.

Trey \t-rey\ as a boy's name is pronounced tray. It is of Middle English origin, and the meaning of Trey is "three". The name derives from the world of gaming, in which a three in cards, dice or dominoes is called a "trey". May also be a variant of Traigh (Irish) "strand".

(source: http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Trey)

Wow, I'm all psyched up now!

Letter to August

2011-08-01T23:13:00.002+08:00

Hey August!

It's great to see you!

Your cousin July was a real pain and I'm awfully glad to see the last of her - at least for this year. She was terrible company and gave me nothing but trouble the entire month although I must admit that things got slightly better towards the tail end.

I'm looking forward to wiping the slate clean and getting back on track. With just 4 more months to go (and a long list of things to accomplish), I've gotta double up and crank up those rusty gears to get up to speed. Not an easy feat, especially when I'm edging closer to the big 4-0 in 3 years' time.

I know this sounds a little crazy but I'm going to start working on my novella. I've been writing since 15 and have kept my little collection of short stories - all handwritten, mind you - in the cupboard for decades.

And then last week, on my way to work, I was in a Katy Perry mood and popped in her One of the Boys album. While listening to Waking Up in Vegas, the closet writer in me snapped out of inertia and the words, ideas, characters just spun out of control.

So for the last few days, I've been formulating storylines, developing characters and creating images. That's when it hit me: perhaps it's time to relive the magic of words and weave them back into my life.

Honestly, I don't think I'll ever publish anything I've written. But I'd really like to preserve my works and hand them down to my children so that when I'm gone from this world, they'll still have something to remember me by.

Just in case you're unfamiliar with Kathy Perry, I've embedded the Waking Up in Vegas video.

So yeah! I'm counting on you to inspire me, August! Don't let me down!

Cheers
EowYCn

Another Day

2011-07-21T19:29:00.000+08:00

Yes, I'm still in the office.

Just sent out a couple of official emails and have yet to craft another important one.

But I'm tired. And that's the worse state of mind to be in when writing sensitive emails because I need to concentrate and carefully word my sentences.

I'll take a breather, let my thoughts settle down before I start a new day tomorrow.

It's 7.30pm now. Time to shut down and head home.

What. A. Day.

2011-07-20T19:28:00.000+08:00

July doesn't like me very much, does she?

I got a call from one of my Corporate Events Management students in the afternoon. They had gone down to a particular secondary school (which shall not be named) to speak to the student volunteers who were going to help out at the event. Apparently, this group of misbehaving and rowdy students weren't very willing to learn the dance moves that were part of the flash mob. One character even stepped out of the line, created some trouble and ruffled several feathers.

To cut a long story short, my students were "stalked" and confronted" by this young teenager and his gang outside the school compound. I wasn't present to witness what happened but there was some physical contact between the said teen and one of my students. Thankfully, no-one was hurt and the school teacher was called in to settle the dispute.

I'm upset because this incident has shaken some of the students. And I think many are prepared to fail this subject and not show up for the event as they're concerned for their own safety. While it's easy for me to say that things will be fine, I can't guarantee if trouble will stay away.

Will mull over this tonight and try to resolve the issue by tomorrow, if possible. While my primary concern is for their welfare, I'm infuriated that all their hard work and planning will come to nought should we make changes to the programme. It's cruel that they're so close to the completion of the event and all this could be gone in a flash.

I need a sign to make the call.

Can't have my cake and eat it. Can you?

2011-07-20T01:13:00.002+08:00

With several blinks of an eye, it's soon gonna be bye bye July.

And I'm quite glad because this month's been a wreck.

I've been bludgeoned by a spate of unfortunate incidents at work and at home. I lost my cool several times and flared up too readily, incurring the wrath of several people, including the poor hub.

I can't explain what happened, but something in me snapped more than once and I guess it was all that I could take.

One of the main reasons for my meltdown was the stress of taking over a colleague's duties when she resigned to care for her family. I started assuming the responsibilities in late May and to top it off, I was also given new projects to manage. It was only this month that I began to realise that I had indeed bitten off more than I could chew.

To make matters worse, the school holidays were over and the girls had gone back to school. Things were particularly tough for Xian who'd not performed well during the mid-year examinations. No surprises for guessing who's made accountable for her less-than-stellar academic performance.

I found myself staying back later in office each day just to clear the administrative work that piled up because I could only get cracking when I'm done with my classes. After 6 in the evening, when most of my colleagues have left for the day, I would start shifting through my files and replying emails.

Just when I thought things couldn't get ANY worse, I realised that I'd become an unwilling listening ear to another colleague who'd conveniently share work grievances when I clearly was in no mood to be sympathetic. Sadly, my non-verbal communication cues seemed to have been totally lost on this ignorant person who was determined to drag me down just because it was possible to do so. It got to the point when I showed traces of agitation and only then did this person get the message and backed off. For a while.

I was SO affected that I couldn't leave the office one evening because I was fuming and couldn't find an outlet to vent. Even when I finally got into the car, I couldn't even drive off because I could feel my heart racing and I knew that if I'd move the car so much as an inch, I would crash dangerously because I really, REALLY wanted to smash something up.

Honestly, I have no patience for those who complain about their "heavy workload" when I'm doing double or triple their share AND still manage to produce decent quality work and meet deadlines.

Needless to say, this deadly combination of overloaded work and crumbling family issues took its toll on my fraying nerves and last week, the walls crumbled.

On Monday, I had to stay back late to speak to my event class' client, sorting out issues and discussing how to help the students get back on track. It just so happened that MIL had an eye operation on the same day and I'd promised the hub that I would rush back as soon as I could. Naturally, I returned home later than expected and we had a spat sparked off by our differing views on Xian's education. I lashed out at the hub, calling him terrible names and in turn, he gave me the silent treatment for the whole week.

Although we made up at the end of the week (largely because I can't stand the no-communication zone and initiated the peace-making offer, as usual) and things have stabilised a little, the emotional upheaval is still too raw for discomfort.

Work-Life Balance is nothing but a myth and fantasy, and the ones who whole-heartedly embrace this notion are either blatantly naive, do not have young children to care for or those who are super humans, with super kids and armed with superb time management skills.

I confess. I have none of these remarkable abilities. I'm just an ordinary working mother who's trying to juggle unrealistic expectations from family members, keeping my job and maintaining my sanity.

And I'm sure I'm not the only mother who's greeted with guilt trips when I sacrifice time with my girls for the sake of deadlines at work. Yes, I do want my chocolate fudge cake and eat it and so far I've been fairly successful. That is, until last week when the troubles escalated and blew up in my face.

Looks like I'll just have to cast furtive glances at the delicious chocolate cake. And eat them in my dreams.

For Art's Sake!

2011-07-02T13:57:00.002+08:00

This little reflection was inspired by my previous post which brought back memories of my days at school.

It's a little known fact to many of my friends and acquaintances that Art's one of my first loves.

My mother sent me for Art classes when I was about 6 and I thoroughly enjoyed my Saturday lessons conducted at my Art teacher's Walmer Drive home. I can vaguely recall being surrounded by more than 10 kids of different ages, each using different medium to sketch, colour and paint their little pieces. I was in awe of the "older" ones (who were probably in the teens) because they were really talented. I can't recall why and when I stopped classes but the influence of colour co-ordination, size, proportions, angles, shapes and shades had since been etched in my mind.

In school, my humble little pieces would be selected for display in class or even school boards. I wasn't successful in craftwork or needlework, but I often aced my Art exam. Occasionally I would whip out my drawing block and start sketching and colouring with oil pastels or magic markers (never enjoyed dabbling with poster paints and avoided them if I could help out). But I was never completely satisfied with my efforts and in my growing up years, stashed my art pack behind the cupboard because school work became a priority.

Art came back into my life quite by accident. And ironically, it was because of school.

At the end of Secondary 3, I'd fared so miserably in Additional Maths that I was forced to drop the subject. In my school, all the students were required to take a minimum of 8 subjects and I found myself in hot soup because there wasn't any other option available. Except Art. I was an angsty rebel back in those dark days and it didn't help that there was a stigma attached to us academic-losers who took Art as an 'O' level subject.

Although I attended lessons regularly and focused on using pencil as my medium, I was never really "into" the subject and just enough to get by. I didn't practise as hard or as much as I should have but I eventually got a B4 for my 'O's and my transcript didn't look quite as horrifying as it would have if I'd attempted A Maths.

I thought I could chuck Art out of my school life until history repeated itself when I was in Junior College. At my mother's insistence, I settled my 'A' level combination of English Literature, History and Economics. Needless to say, this ended in a complete disaster for my JC1 exams. I just couldn't dig Economics no matter how hard I tried. I attended remedial lessons and even had 1-to-1 coaching from the Head of Arts. And that's the worst part of it all. I channeled all my energies to pin down Oligopoly and Monopoly, wrestled with the Demand and Supply curves, wrote countless Economics essays only to have these words uttered in my face: This isn't a GP paper!

But my tutors came together and hatched an escape plan to save me from self-destruction. My parents were called in to be "counselled" and "advised" against forcing me to take Economics. My tutors argued that if I continued with Economics, the best I could end up with is an E grade (pass) but the possibility of even scrapping through was just about that of me landing a distinction for Chinese. (Read: NEVER GONNA HAPPEN).

Once again, Art saved my skin although it was a tough battle because I'd lost 1 entire year's work and had to play catch-up at double speed. In order to "qualify" for the subject, I was asked to familiarise myself with the Art Movements and had to sit through an "aptitude" test. It was never going to be a smooth ride because there's lots more to Art that meets the eye. And for the 'A' levels, I had to sit through 2 practical papers (Nature and Design) and submit a Woodblock Print. Most of my "new" Art classmates had already begun work of their submissions in Year 1 and as a late entrant to the race it was extremely pressuring to make the mark.

Honestly, my 2nd year at JC's a blur. I can't recall details but I fared well enough to enter the National University of Singapore (NUS). Scrapped through by the skin of my teeth. Not that it matters now.

I owe Art quite a fair bit. Even though I'd cruelly abandoned my childhood friend and attempted to make new acquaintances, she never once begrudged me and even helped me to overcome several hurdles.

Art, here's my long overdue and heartfelt thanks for your unwavering support all these years during the critical periods. You never gave up on me even when I lost hope. You steered me back when I lost my direction. Thank you.

How Great, Thou Art.

Closing the June Chapter

2011-06-30T22:00:00.027+08:00

Oh, Fiddlesticks!

I've had a C.R.A.Z.Y. June. Although there were 2 weeks of term break and no classes were in session, I was still up to my neck with work. I attended a 3 day eLearning Forum Asia 2011 at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore, scrambled to make amendments to senate papers for presentation in July, marked piles of assignments etc.

Despite the crazy deadlines, the hub and I managed to bring the kids to the Zoo and caught Kung Fu Panda 2 in the theatres. We old-timers even went on a date (without the girls) to The ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands where I got the opportunity to savour the masterpieces of Vincent Van Gogh and Salvador Dalí.

When the hub suggested we do something different and visit the Arts Science Museum at MBS, I was a little hesitant. He's not the type who'd visit Art galleries, museums or be enthralled by historical events and artifacts. But it was a pre-birthday celebration date and I knew I'd enjoy the visit.

In school, I learnt quite a bit when I was tasked to I read up and research on the various movements created by renown artists in Art History. I love the bright, vivid colours of Dutch Impressionist painter Van Gogh (my all-time favourite) and the warped, distorted vision of Surrealism Extraordinaire Dalí.

I've been fortunate enough to visit - not just once, but twice - the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam and I was "lost" for several hours studying the details of Van Gogh's evolving style, eventuating with coarse wild brush strokes which revealed his raging insanity and insecurity. The MBS exhibition Van Gogh Alive offered but a small glimpse of his works although the experimental concept on integrating music, sound and art into an audio-visual spectacular is unique. That said, give me old school anytime.

The highlight of our visit was really Dalí: Mind of a Genius – The Exhibition. I'd only seen his paintings and statues in books, so it was really awe-inspiring to see them "live" right before my very eyes. I lapped up every detail, stroke, curve, texture, form, shape etc.

Trigger-happy me snapped away 200 photos and then the camera battery went flat :( But here are some of my favourite pictures:

My main regret is that we didn't get the chance to take a short break with the girls. All our work schedules clashed and it was tough for me to take leave when I was on operationally-ready-stand-by-mode to complete the project.

And it hit me that I've been caught up in such a frenzied pace that I find it challenging to pull the breaks without damaging rubber on the tyres.

Oh, Fiddlesticks!

I need a restful break! And it's now too late to take one now that Term's swung back into action. Perhaps I should start planning for a getaway this December. A treat for the soul.

TODAYonline | World | While men stayed put, women roamed the earth

2011-06-03T21:04:00.001+08:00

TODAYonline | World | While men stayed put, women roamed the earth

Oh. My. Goodness.

This is quite the revelation! Women being the sole breadwinners in pre-historic times?

Lately I've been thinking long and hard about my career and family. I'm doing relatively well at work and have received recognition for the efforts that I've put in. Plus I thoroughly enjoy teaching and am quite settled at my workplace. In fact, I'm not ashamed to proclaim that I intend to retire here!

With my kids growing up at supernova speed, I'm often at a loss because I really want to be there for them during the important developmental years but I can't convince myself to give up my teaching career. This emotional tug-of-war often wears me down, especially when more ex-colleagues and friends are making a conscious decision to ditch their high heels for slippers, and trade marketing company products for supermarket-ing groceries.

Now I don't feel so darn guilty about working instead of giving up my job to become a homemaker. :)

Teen in China sells kidney to buy iPad 2

2011-06-03T10:14:00.003+08:00

Teen in China sells kidney to buy iPad 2

This says a LOT about the new generation.

Are they too materialistic for their own good?

Selling your body parts to buy a product that will be obsolete in months to come? What will you consider selling next? Your liver? Fingers and toes?

Really, this gives a whole new spin to the phrase "I'd give an arm or leg for..."

Too scary for words. *shudder*

Welcome to 2011, June!

2011-06-01T20:14:00.001+08:00

Wow. We're midway through the year already.

Time to take stock of what's been completed and what's coming up in the next 6 months.

My biggest challenge now is to help Xian overcome her psychological fear for exams and hopefully she'll cross the hurdles at her own pace. Right now, she's "academically-challenged" and requires loads of motivation to get her on track.

Next would be to get Wen ready for Primary One. Truthfully, I'm dreading her foray into formal education. Based on my previous experience with Xian, I can openly admit that I'm totally inept at dealing with the transition from kindergarten to primary school.

Thank goodness Wei's only in pre-nursery and I don't have to worry too much about her academic development at this point in time.

Looks like I've got heaps on my plate for the second half on 2011.

12 Years: Honest Reflections

2011-05-25T07:47:00.007+08:00

Every day is a brand new day with new challenges and new expectations.

And after 12 years of being legally wedded, I can't say that I've the answers to a perfect marriage because in all honesty there have been times when I question the sanctity of my mind when I decided to spend the rest of my life with the hub.

I love the man. He's been my rock and pillar of strength when I faltered. He always knows when I'm at my lowest ebb. He's solid, dependable, sweet and loyal. He's made huge sacrifices for the family. And I cannot imagine my life without him.

Yet, there's always a "but" in every story, even in fairy tales.

We have our differences, especially family matters and specifically in our approach towards bringing up the kids. And their education.

He feels that I've been negligent in building the girls' academic foundation and chides me for not guiding them properly in school work. Ironical since I'm an educator by profession. He hates my "addiction" to social networking - be it Facebook, Twitter, Blogs etc. I try to explain that these are tools which help me alleviate my stress but he argues that they simply add to my load and gets irritated that I spend time on the computer.

On my end, I wish that he's more connected with the girls and that he takes a more active role in their lives. The only time he "appears" is when disciplinary action is required - usually because I'm at my wits' end and the kids are getting the better of me. His argument is that he's bogged down by heavy responsibilities at work and his financial contribution to the family's income is more substantial, reasons I don't deny. Still, it would be nice if he's around a little more and show some concern to the children's personal development.

We're far from being the Ambassadors of Wedded Bliss. Like many couples, married or otherwise, we have our share of squabbles and disputes but with communication and compromise, we try to work out these differences as well as we can.

Still, there's no denying that I often feel trapped.

I'm a free spirit caged by circumstances and expectations. And there are moments when I'm torn by responsibilities to the family and my desire to break free from the chains that have kept me grounded. I will openly admit that while relations among other family members remain cordial, differences in attitudes and beliefs have put a strain on these ties. I've to constantly remind myself that everyone's entitled to their own thoughts and we should respect each other's opinions.

Unfortunately, I'm possibly the only one who believes in this. Call me sensitive but I think we should never pass judgments before understanding what's going on. Every child is different. Every parent is different. There's no one-size-fits-all model that can be universally applied.

Despite my best efforts to suppress the bitterness, battles fought between my inner demons often threaten to rage out of control. This is where it gets challenging because I hate wars and prefer to play peacemaker when animosity breeds.

But when the mediator is provoked, who steps in?

I'm still working on the solution and at the rate things are going, these answers aren't going to fall on my lap anytime soon.

Please don't be fooled by the emotional outburst. I AM happy. I don't regret my choice of a husband, despite our issues. I never sought to look out for Mr Perfect anyway and to me, he's the ideal person for the job.

And I'm by no means the easiest person on earth to live with either, so I appreciate him for learning to accept me and my faults: lock, stock and barrel. On my part, I've to strive harder to be a better mum, better wife, better daughter and better daughter-in-law.

So what's the key lesson I've learnt in these 12 years?

Well, at the end of the day, what really matters is that we've tried to resolve differences, worked together, sang the same tune and danced to the same routine. Marriage is a life-long partnership that MUST be able to withstand external pressure and internal woes.

Most importantly, I'm confident that I've chosen the right General to fight alongside with, and not against, in all my past, present and future wars.

To the Love of my Life, THANK YOU for these 12 years. And I look forward to many more. Till Death do us part.

TODAYonline | Hot News | PM Lee and new Cabinet sworn in

2011-05-22T06:04:00.015+08:00

TODAYonline Hot News PM Lee and new Cabinet sworn in

There's a brand new political game in town. It's called the The Cabinet Shuffle.

After the dubbed watershed GE2011 where Singaporeans *finally* mustered a faint roar that roused the slumbering PAP giant, PM Lee took the hint, made some drastic steps and threw out his old deck of cards.

MM Lee and SM Goh have retired albeit still holding onto some 'advisory' positions.

So have 3 other ministers who bore the brunt of Singapore's criticisms over red hot issues like the overcrowding public transport, escalating public housing prices and unforgiving critical lapses in national security.

2 other ministers lost their posts after failing to be elected by the voters of Aljunied where WP charged into battle and won a historical GRC victory.

A last look at the "old" Cabinet:

Photograph of the last meeting: PHOTO COURTESY MICA

And here's the new (not so sure about improved) line-up:

Ministers

Lee Hsien Loong - Prime Minister

Mr Teo Chee Hean - Deputy Prime Minister & Coordinating Minister for National Security & Minister for Home Affairs
Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam - Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for Finance & Minister for Manpower
Mr Lim Hng Kiang - Minister for Trade and Industry
Mr Lim Swee Say - Minister, Prime Minister’s Office
Assoc Prof Yaacob Ibrahim - Minister for Information, Communications and the Arts
Mr Khaw Boon Wan - Minister for National Development
Dr Ng Eng Hen - Minister for Defence
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan - Minister for the Environment and Water Resources
Mr K Shanmugam - Minister for Foreign Affairs & Minister for Law
Mr Gan Kim Yong - Minister for Health
Mr Lui Tuck Yew - Minister for Transport & Second Minister for Foreign Affairs
Mr S Iswaran - Minister, Prime Minister’s Office & Second Minister for Home Affairs & Second Minister for Trade and Industry
Mr Heng Swee Keat - Minister for Education
MG(NS) Chan Chun Sing - Ag Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports & Minister of State, Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts

Senior Ministers of State

Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien - Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts & Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources
Mr Heng Chee How - Prime Minister’s Office

Ministers of State

Mr Lee Yi Shyan - Ministry of Trade and Industry & Ministry of National Development
Dr Amy Khor Lean Suan - Ministry of Health
Mr Masagos Zulkifli - Ministry of Home Affairs & Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Mr Teo Ser Luck - Ministry of Trade and Industry
Mdm Halimah Yacob - Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports
Mrs Josephine Teo - Ministry of Finance & Ministry of Transport
Mr Lawrence Wong - Ministry of Defence & Ministry of Education
BG(NS) Tan Chuan-Jin - Ministry of National Development & Ministry of Manpower

Senior Parliamentary Secretaries

Mr Hawazi Daipi - Ministry of Education & Ministry of Manpower
Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman - Ministry of Defence & Ministry of National Development
Mr Sam Tan - Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports
Ms Sim Ann - Ministry of Education & Ministry of Law

PM Lee indicated that he'll review the portfolios and progress in 2 years' time. While it's too early to tell, this move is a positive sign that the citizens' voices are now being taken seriously.

Good luck Singapore!

More Movie Dates

2011-05-21T14:50:00.022+08:00

We did it again.

Not once but twice in a week.

Before you start getting funky ideas, let me clear the air: the hub and I snuck out for another late night movie date after the kids went to bed.

Last Sunday night, the hub suggested watching Priest since we it was one of the two movies we'd intended to catch.

"But we've got work tomorrow!" I protested.

"So?" He shrugged nonchalantly.

"My teaching schedule's crazy on Mondays! 7 hours! Plus I've to give a short 15-minute talk to some Business Juniors on choosing their elective!"

"So? It's only a movie. I thought you wanted to watch Priest?"

"Ya but it's Monday tomorrow!"
"What difference does it make?"

So off we went on a Sunday night to AMK Hub. This time, we booked tickets online so we wouldn't make a wasted trip.

This Horror-Supernatural-Sci-fi-Fantasy-Thriller is ride up my alley. Set in a post-apocalyptic future, the comic-inspired film brings to mind the Underworld andBlade series. It stars Paul Bettany as the stoic vampire slayer who goes against his order to track down his niece's vampire kidnappers. Sexy, cool Maggie Q, a Priestess, joins in the fight against the vampires led by Karl Urban. Cam Gigandet rounds up the supporting cast as a young sheriff who's the kidnapped victim's lover.

Lots of slick, cool fights as Priest takes on the ashen creatures of the night which don't resemble humans. And when Hope seems lost, Good trounces Evil . All's well that ends well. As expected.

The film was a little too short for me, and somewhat a downer for the hub who expected a lot more action. But the teaser ending implied that we could expect a sequel and I'm already licking my lips in anticipation. ;)

Rating: ***1/2

Then on Friday afternoon, the hub sent me an sms about, you guessed it, another movie.

Yeah, my man is on a roll!

This time he was keen to watch Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides. I'd initially wanted to take the kids along but the 10.45pm show was a tad too late and way past their bedtime.

After several sms exchanges, we agreed that the kids will probably be better off watching Kung Fu Panda 2 the following week.

So off we went on a Friday night to - once again - AMK Hub.

I'm a Johnny Depp fan and love his movies, especially all his collaborations with my favourite director of ALL TIME, Tim Burton. His iconic portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow never fails to tickle my funny bone and there's no doubt this talented and versatile actor is the main star of the show.

Geoffrey Rush reprises his role as Captain Barbossa, Jack Sparrow's arch-nemesis turned conspirator. Ian McShane is Blackbeard, the new villain of the High Seas whose name sends shivers down every seaman's spine. And then there's the beautiful Penélope Cruz whose Angelica manages to outwit even the charmingly devious Captain Jack Sparrow.

Depp's sizzling chemistry with Cruz spices up the screen - without overdosing the audience with mushy-love-goo that previous POTC films suffered from, courtesy of the Will Turner and Elizabeth Swan romance. There's no Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightley in this film (thank goodness) since their love story's completed. Instead, the love metre is upped a notch by Sam Claflin as the young missionary who saves the young mermaid played by Àstrid Bergès-Frisbey.

Ahhhhhhh. Young, innocent, pure love. *SIGH*

Although I still like the first and original POTC best, the 4th installment beats the other two hands down. It boasts a refreshing star-studded cast playing quirky characters and an uncomplicated fun plot.

Rating: ****

With the June school holidays round the corner and the unleashing of Hollywood's summer blockbusters, I'm quite certain I'll be visiting the cinemas again really, really, really soon.

Midnight Movie Date

2011-05-15T20:30:00.021+08:00

We're boring folk.

That's the conclusion the hub and I resignedly came to on Saturday night.

It was an unusual Saturday night on all counts. Both MIL and FIL were at home as they didn't go over to either BIL's places for the weekend. MIL was still nursing a bad cough and didn't want to spread the bug to her other grandchildren.

So the hub suggested, after dinner, that we catch a movie since we've got help to mind the kids.

Now, watching a movie on a Saturday night may be a De facto activity for dating couples but it's a rare treat for those married with young kids. More so for boring people like the hub and I.

So why do we classify ourselves as "boring"?

Well, as far back as I can remember (since mid 1995 when we started going out) the both of us have probably watched a midnight movie together a grand total of...

*shudders embarrassingly*

...less than 5 times in 16 years!

Amazing right?

Neither did we notoriously club-hop, wantonly pump alcohol into our systems and wildly party till the wee hours of the morning. Plus, I just don't like the stale smoke smell on my hair and clothes. Our self-imposed curfew was to reach home before midnight (yes, even when we both started working) because it was just expensive to hail a cab after midnight and we were trying to scrimp and save every bit we could for the wedding/house/future.

Yes, we are geeks in our own right. The hub's a computer nerd (whether he cares to admit it or not) and used to spend hours on end playing computer games although the xbox 360 is now collecting dust because he doesn't have the luxury of time to play the long-drawn games for hours. He's now mucking around with simple games on his iPhone 4.

I'm not too cool myself either and in the precious pockets of time I can steal for myself, I prefer to plonk in front of the computer to pen my blog (a rarity these days), update my tweets (not as frequently as others) or play games in Facebook. When I used to commute via public transport, that was my chance to catch up on some reading. My all-time favourite genre? Children's Fantasy novels like the Harry Potter books, LOTR etc. I own about 300 movie-inspired toy collectibles from the LOTR trilogy, Tim Burton's Corpse Bride and The Nightmare Before Christmas. And I'm an avid film and TV buff.

Anyway, I digress.

So yes, this middle-aged geek couple decided on Saturday to do what most normal couples do: go on a movie date. It was a toss-up between Thor and Priest but the only problem was that all the tickets were selling out fast so we journeyed to AMK Hub which was about 15 minutes drive from our home. Unfortunately the earliest show we could get reasonably good seats for was midnight. We went ahead to buy the tickets to Thor anyway.

Trouble was that it was only 9.30pm and we weren't sure what to do so besides, well, our regular obligatory grocery shopping duties at NTUC supermarket.

How positively romantic. Heh. But there wasn't much of a choice as all other retail shops were drawing their shutters down.

Even after we bought our weekly supermarket supplies, we still had an hour to spare and wandered into McDonald's for a snack. The placed was packed and were both surprised that so many people milling about so late in the night. (Don't forget that we hardly ever venture out of our front gates after 10pm.) We found seats and I got a Apple Crumble, Cinnamon Melts, a Cappuccino and a Mochaccino from the McCafé section.

Surrounded by noisy chatter, it wasn't exactly an idyllic setting for cosy tête-à-tête but we made do and enjoyed our little quiet time and supper together.

And then it was movie time!

On our way back, the hub commented that we're really a very "unhappening" pair. While dating couples usually enjoy a more eventful life before marriage and kids, we only started injecting some measure of excitement into ours recently by attending concerts and performances -especially now that the girls are older and more independent.

Indeed, we're starting to spend more quality time as a hub-and-wifey team sans kids. That's something nice to look forward to every once in a while.

Workers' Party's Sylvia Lim resigns from Temasek Polytechnic - Channel NewsAsia

2011-05-15T15:56:00.003+08:00

Workers' Party's Sylvia Lim resigns from Temasek Polytechnic - Channel NewsAsia

When the WP team won Aljunied GRC last week, it was historic victory and for many of us the work, it was extremely significant too.

WP's chairman Sylvia Lim, the first female opposition candidate to be elected into Parliament, is also a fellow lecturer / Course Manager at Temasek Polytechnic. So Sylvia's not only a my colleague, she's now my MP too!

However, we soon learnt that she'd tendered her resignation in anticipation of new (and heavier) responsibilities as an elected MP.

Almost immediately, her office was swarmed with well-wishes who wanted to offer their congratulations and good wishes. Sylvia was certainly the star of the day. Despite her busy schedule, Miss Ene and I managed to catch her slightly after 6pm. We spoke to her briefly and even took photos with her outside her office!

It's really going to be our loss: she's a great lecturer and colleague but she's now got a different calling to answer to. I respect her decision to alter her career route and bravely take on new, unchartered territory.

All the best Sylvia! We're behind you all the way!

MP-elects for Aljunied GRC continuing on their thank you proc... on Twitpic

2011-05-14T11:52:00.003+08:00

MP-elects for Aljunied GRC continuing on their thank you proc... on Twitpic

This is what I call Service From the Heart!

Go WP!

A New Political Era

2011-05-14T10:37:00.002+08:00

It’s been exactly a week since Singapore marched to the polls and boy, what a nail-biting Saturday evening / Sunday morning it had been!

Like I mentioned in my previous posts, the Social Media made a huge contribution in opening up channels for Singaporeans to voice their opinions and share their sentiments. As result, many Singaporeans are no longer politically apathetic and unafraid to express their views.

Besides actively lapping up the latest tidbits online, I decided to make my own not-so-subtle stand and was dressed in blue for the entire period from the close of Nomination Day right up Polling Day. I’d also bought two baby-blue tops when I ran out of light blue clothes.

As the girls’ Ballet/Modern Jazz/Chinese/Music classes were rescheduled because of Polling Day, I was spared my Saturday routine of chauffeuring them about. We were given 12 hours – from 8.00am to 8.00pm – to cast our votes but we didn’t want to wait till the last minute so we decided to go in the morning.

While the kids milled about at home, the hub, FIL and I went to our designated polling station at about 9.00am, ready to cast our votes. Here's what I wore for Polling Day:

On the way to the polling station, I couldn't resist snapping a quick picture of my poll card:

Before I was given the ballot paper, I presented my identification card to the officer who checked my name against the registered voters and crossed it out. Then he wrote my serial number on the ballot sheet and read out my name loudly. He handed over the ballot paper and another officer lead me to the triangular-shaped booth where I was to mark a “X” on the names of the candidates and political party they represented. Coincidentally, we’re all Aljunied voters and our constituency is the most keenly watched this elections because the opposition party contesting in our area is none other than Workers’ Party (WP) led by Secretary-General Low Thia Khiang.

There wasn’t much of a queue and we were all done in less than 15 minutes. As we weren’t allowed to use our phones within the area (lest the secrecy of our votes is compromised), I didn’t manage to snap any pictures.

Needless to say, I was restless the entire day and kept checking the clock. Many Singaporeans, including myself, wanted more alternative voices and the elections was the simplest way get our message across.

At 9.30pm, I plonked myself in front of the TV and waited eagerly for the official results as stations began their “live” broadcast of the elections. My laptop was on and the tweets came in fast and furious, with “sources” on the ground releasing the results way before the official results were announced.

Unfortunately my younger daughters Wen and Wei couldn’t have chosen a better time to fall ill and they both took turns to develop fevers sporadically from morning till night, hitting 38.5 degrees! :(

Wen in a mask in a bid to prevent the spread of her cough

Wei icing herself down with Po (panda) at her side

I was certainly hit by election fever, sponging them and checking the tweets intermittently.

Before midnight, the Internet was abuzz with news of a historic victory pulled off by the WP at Aljunied. The previously impregnable fortress of the GRC system was in danger of being breached. But I didn’t want to believe anything that’s not official so I patiently waited while checking the girls’ temperature, surfing the net and gluing my eyes to the TV set simultaneously.

Across the main road from my home is Hougang Stadium where are the ardent WP supporters had gathered since early evening while they wait in anticipation. Occasionally the peace of the still night was interrupted by cheers. Even with the air conditioner on and windows closed in my bedroom, I could still hear the chants and whistles.

Then suddenly Robocop Elections Returning Officer Extraordinaire Yam Ah Mee appeared on screen and I held my breath as he oh-so-slowly delivered the news the entire nation was waiting for. His deadpan delivery gave away nothing as he monotonously read the statistics and results:

WP (54.7%) : PAP (45.3%)

WOOOOOOOOOOOO-HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!

What a historic victory by WP! The team had wrestled Aljunied GRC away from the PAP – a first ever GRC win since the time GRCs were introduced. Party Chief’s Low Thia Khiang’s biggest political gamble paid off when he left his stronghold of Hougang in the hands of his trusted protégé Yaw Shih Leong to lead his A-star ensemble of party chairman Sylvia Lim, corporate lawyer Chen Show Mao, postgrad law student Pritam Singh and family counsellor Faisal Abdul Manap. They trounced the PAP’s team helmed by Foreign Minister George Yeo, Second Minister for Finance and Transport Lim Hwee Hwa, potential Parliamentary Speaker Zainul Abidin Rasheed, Grassroots veteran Cynthia Phua and rookie Ong Ye Kung.

Naturally, Hougang Stadium erupted with thunderous applause as rapturous roars echoed within the vicinity. If my girls hadn’t been down with fever, I’d have been there jostling with the crowd and joining in the celebrations. And I'm proud to have contributed to Singapore's history.

The various opposition parties made several in-roads in GE 2011 and although they only won 6 seats out of 87, it’s the best showing by the Opposition since Singapore’s Independence in 1965. On the other hands, PAP's approval ratings slipped, having garnered only 60.1% of total votes cast.

If only veteran Opposition Leader Chiam See Tong and his Singapore People’s Party (SPP) managed to defend their 27-year-helmed ward of Potong Pasir. Instead, Chiam opted for a similar tactic to WP and left his stronghold to contest in a GRC. They lost the GRC and was narrowly edged out by merely 114 votes to PAP’s Sito Yih Pin.

Such a slim margin of defeat. *Sigh*

GE2011, aptly touted as a watershed election, proved to be a huge wake-up call for PAP as they never expected to lose a GRC and in the process, three ministers, potential 4th generation leader and grassroots veteran. Unlike the pioneer generation of no-nonsense PAP leaders before him, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's softening towards the end of the campaign signalled that he's now more willing to make listen, compromise and accommodate the needs of the people.

The wheels of change have been set in motion and things can only get better for Singapore in the long run.

Fewer behaviour problems for breastfed kids: Study

2011-05-10T15:12:00.003+08:00

Fewer behaviour problems for breastfed kids: Study

Breastfeeding was one of the easiest decisions I've ever made in my life.

Initially I never gave it much thought simply because neither my mum nor MIL breastfed their kids so no-one encouraged me to do it. Back in 2002, there wasn't much information about breastfeeding available on the net either. Just a handful of my friends had become first-time mothers and were fumbling their way into motherhood themselves.

A few weeks before my eldest daughter Xian was born, I was given several cans of Nestle's NAN for newborns. I figured that would last me a couple of months before I ran out. Back then, both the hub and I were newly weds and at the starting block of our careers so whatever money we could scrimp, we saved.

But breastfeeding never crossed my mind.

Until the day Xian was born.

After I delivered Xian, the nurses asked if she was to be fully breastfed, supplemented or bottle-fed to which I instinctively replied "100% breastfeeding".

The rest is history.

I successfully nursed all my 3 girls way past the usual 6 month-period and never supplemented with cow's milk until they were about 2 years old. Xian and Wen were weaned off at 25 months (about 2 years) and Wei stopped at about 32 months (almost 3 years).

As firm supporter and believer of breastfeeding, I am aware of the tremendous benefits breastfeeding brings to both mother and child, not to mention the creation of a wonderful bond between them. I'm not so sure if the results are conclusive for this study - whether or not this means I'll be spared the trauma of my girls' emotional roller-coaster teenage years remains to be seen.

But I certainly have no regrets breastfeeding my children and would strongly advocate all future mothers to consider this natural source of supply for babies and supplementing with cow's milk only at the last resort.

The Beginning...or The End?

2011-05-07T00:12:00.003+08:00

It's finally here!

In 8 hours or so, Singaporeans will vote for the candidates who will form the next government. These people will have the power to improve the quality of lives and make the right changes that will propel the country forward.

I implore my fellow Singaporeans to vote wisely. Our future is in our own hands.

Cooling-Off Day

2011-05-06T17:08:00.005+08:00

Cooling-off Day is here.

According to xin.msn, Cooling-Off Day is "a day for voters to reflect rationally on the various issues raised in the nine days of campaigning before making their choice at the polls tomorrow. It's also a day where campaigning and election advertising are not allowed."

While the political parties have to refrain from canvassing for support, the netizens are heating up online in their last ditch effort to convince and persuade those who have yet to make-up their minds on who they should vote for.

It's War on the World Wide Web!

GE Fever. And Cookies.

2011-05-03T14:11:00.017+08:00

My poor hub's extremely upset with me for devoting every possible waking hour on the online campaign trail.

And I understand why.

Xian's mid-year exams are looming - in fact her first paper's on Cooling day i.e. Friday, 6 May 2011. Over the Labour Day weekend, I was supposed to be guiding her through revision but whenever there were "empty pockets" of breaks, I wasted no time in surfing the net for the latest election updates.

"I don't understand why you're spending so much time clicking away! You already know who you're going to vote for so why bother reading up? As if it's going to change your mind!"

As usual, I just kept my mouth shut because I didn't want to trigger off an argument that's not worth anyone's salt. I've learnt, over the years, that when he's in one of these moods, I should just back off and not engage in any verbal disagreement because it'll only serve to piss him off further.

Cue: cartoon thought bubble depicting me as the matador de toros flapping a red cape as my bull-headed hub charges directly at me in anger.

I'd love to explain why this year's General Election's got me all excited but I can't. Yes, I'd already made up my mind on Nomination Day itself so technically I shouldn't be spending such a ridiculously insane amount of time monitoring the coverage by the media (state-owned or otherwise).

Come on! The General Elections take place only once in 5 years! And this is the best opportunity for ordinary folks like myself to exercise our rights. Isn't this a "democratic society, based on justice and equality?" Not only is my future at stake, my kids' lives are too. Whatever policies the government pushes out concern all Singaporeans and it's therefore imperative that the people leading this country are the right ones: those who will listen to the people's issues with their hearts and not merely rationalise with their minds and implement changes purely on practicality and economic considerations.

My main gripe? Education.

Granted, Singapore's education is highly regarded and ranked among one of the top internationally. We're known for churning out Mathematical whizzes and we've got a reputable track record of cultivating academic brilliant students. Our eduction system is much like a well-oiled cookie-cutter machine, churning out perfectly shaped edible delights that will fit nicely into beautifully packaged boxes and displayed proudly on shelves.

But no matter how efficiently the cookie factory operates, there will bound to be "rejects" -cookies with defects which fail to meet the quality standards and hence discarded. Granted, these cookies can't make the cut and they will never get the chance to nestle cosily in the boxes. They may still taste just as good as the top grade ones, but nobody will ever know, will they? Because their fates have already been sealed the moment they don't pass the tests.

Think about the children who have learning disabilities, those who society dubs "slow learners" or those whose talents lie in other arenas not related to the academic field. Many of our young ones are continually suppressed because they've not be given the options to explore alternative routes. And these children are undeservedly "branded" with labels so it's not surprising that they will eventually fall through the cracks because nobody realises their potential.

As an educator and having experienced first hand the rigid rigour of the Singapore education system I can safely conclude that it's perfect for the brain-smarts. There is no room, however, for those with learning disabilities and difficulties to manoeuvre their way out of being stigmatised. Yes, the streaming system helps place students into classes which ideally suit their pace. Unfortunately, once they're allocated to the respective and appropriate levels, the categorisation leads to further alienating them from the so-called "expected" route.

And it doesn't help that most parents have fixed a mindset about what's deemed as "educational success" and add more pressure on their already suffering offspring. The stress takes a toll on the children mentally and emotionally as well. In fact, many of them try their darnest and when they're sent the signal that their best is not good enough, it's a huge blow to their self-esteem. Not surprisingly, many give up when they assume that their academic future is bleak. This may spark off a chain of events which sets their future spiraling, especially if they are not blessed with understanding parents to support and encourage them to persevere.

Honestly, can you blame these children if they give up? It's like forcing a physically disabled person to compete and complete in a 100m race TOGETHER with able-bodied athletes, expecting him to clock in a similar time. And when the disable athlete is last to cross the finishing line, not only are there no words of motivation but a torrent of abuse and taunts are rained on him. Is this even fair?

I'm sometimes guilty of pushing my poor dyslexic Xian to the limit - although some, including family members will beg to differ because by THEIR standards, I'm considered lax with her. Because she's got a learning disability, she can't be rushed. Her memory is like a goldfish and it can be frustrating revising work with her because she forgets the minute you finishing explaining. I'm just taking it day-by-day and I'm certainly not harbouring any illusion of grandeur that she'll go to an ivy-league university. At this stage, I'll be satisfied that she passes all her examination papers!

I know for a fact that Xian may never achieve in the academic arena but I'm determined to save this cookie at all cost. She has a natural inclination to sports; she's agile, lithe, fast and flexible. I enrolled her in modern jazz dance classes and every week she'll show me new dance moves. I choose to recognise her talents in other areas and I'm trying to create opportunities for her to carve a niche for herself so that she will realise that there's more to life than getting good grades!

What has all this got to do with the General Elections, you say? Plenty. Take a look at all the cabinet ministers and the people legislating policies. Many are trail-blazers who're armed with luminous academic track records and credible career paths. I doubt if they can ever understand the issues ordinary citizens face on the ground. Of course, one can always argue that many of these politicians also rose from the ranks of nobodies to become the somebodies they are today, and they have not entirely forgotten their roots. But times have changed and the issues we face today are different.

What we need are people in the government who WILL listen and who WILL understand and emphasise with the citizens, and be willing to ride out the tough times together, not just the good ones.

We need people who've bumped their heads against the ceiling, taken a tumble from the stairs or failed a test at least once in their lives. In other words, people who'll embraced failure as a learning journey and not accept it as a defeat that marks the end of the world.

We need people who realise that you can't win all the time and even if you lose, it'll only make you a stronger person and you'll be back for a fight next round.

That's why it's such a crucial choice for citizens to make. To elect the candidates who will not only have the brains to run the country, but humility, passion and heart to guide us.

And whatever you do on 6 May 2011, Saturday, DON'T SPOIL YOUR VOTE because every single vote counts.

GE2011: My Take

2011-04-30T17:07:00.018+08:00

In a week’s time, Singaporeans will head to the polls.

And I fervently pray that history will be made.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m no heartless ingrate who mercilessly wants to bite the hand that feeds me. Neither am I a political academic who’s scrutinising every policy and law that’s been passed. But in my humble opinion and in my capacity as an ordinary citizen, I believe that we’ve been under the ruling party’s yoke for far too long.

Let’s be honest about facts: under the dynamic and visionary leadership of our current Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew, the founding fathers of Modern Singapore are undeniably the heroes who built and shaped our lives to where we are today. There is much to be grateful for despite deep sentiments that many laws were implemented harshly (even rashly) – all in the name of economic and social progress. Like docile sheep, we meekly followed the shepherds (and their well-trained dogs) whom we’d entrusted our lives to. It was a situation akin to the typical scenario where the boss says “jump!” and the subordinates asks “how high?”

That era, however, is over.

The current ministers of today lack the passion and fighting spirit of their fore fathers – with the political boundaries repeatedly re-drawn at every election (undoubtedly to ensure that their hard core People's Action Party (PAP) supporters will provide sufficient votes to keep them in power), the majority of Singapore’s Members of Parliament (MP) cruise to easy victories. The introduction of the Group Representation Constituency (GRC) means that the “weaker” MPs could ride on the tailcoats of a heavy-weight anchor Minister and this provided their ticket to Parliament.

The PAP may face their biggest challenge yet. with 82 out of 87 seats up for contest, this election also means that for the first time in decades, the ruling party has not been returned to power after nomination day. And the opposition parties have fielded credible, worthy candidates to give the PAP a decent run for its money. With no walkovers (save for 1 GRC helmed by MM Lee himself), many of the ministers and MPs have to roll up their sleeves and fight, some for the first time in their political careers, to win the hearts of Singaporeans.

The emergence of the social media also means that Singaporeans are no longer restricted in obtaining their news and information from the mass (read: heavily edited) media. As a media and communications lecturer, I can fully understand why objective coverage is crucial in this election. And also why the lure of social media is lustfully enticing many Singaporeans who turn their attention to online sources for the latest scoop.

The World Wide Web is really the old Wild Wild West: a cowboy country run by gun-trotting sheriffs or outlaws, depending on who calls the shot. Even the media gatekeepers have trouble controlling the influx of information flooding the web and this has opened up ample opportunities for the opposition parties to reach out to the public.

It's no wonder that GE2011 is trending. The real battle for voters is fought online - with Facebook, YouTube and Twitter leading the charge. It's exciting and fascinating (at least to me) because I've found many like-minded Singaporeans who share similar sentiments about the local political scene.

I used to believe that most Singaporeans are politically apathetic but this elections is proving to be an eye-opener. The posts, tweets and blogs signal an impending change to the mindset of citizens and a recurring theme that threads these discussion is one that heralds alternative opinions in our parliamentary debates. Voices that echo the sentiments on the ground and not based on "research" and "assumptions" by leaders who are too highly perched on pedestals to comprehend bread and butter issues faced by the everyday man.

To me, the main problem is that the ruling party has been too complacent for far too long. Many of the current MPs have never fought off political opponents and bank on the "sure-win" GRC ticket to Parliament.

Well, this year, they've underestimated the opposition parties and perhaps for the first time in decades, the ruling party may end up losing more than 2 seats.

If the huge turnout at the opposition rallies is anything to show, then I'd say that it's going to be a good fight and I'm right smack in the middle of all the action because I'm at Aljunied GRC where the fiercest battles will be raging.

Together with the hub, I attended the Worker's Party (WP) second rally at Serangoon Stadium on Friday night. Since we live in the area, we parked mid-distance from the site and walked to the stadium. After the huge turnout on Thursday night at Hougang, we knew traffic would be crazy and true enough the roads were crawling with cars and people. Granted, the turnout wasn't as intimidating as Hougang but we had to sit on the slopes OUTSIDE the fence as we arrived late (had to settle the kids first) and decided not to squeeze in with the rest.

It was a fantastic experience and I soaked up the atmosphere although the hub got a little bored midway through. He already knows who he''s going to cast his vote for so he's not affected by reports in the media.

As I looked around the crowd, I couldn't help but wonder if the people around me were ardent WP supporters, undecided voters or just curious folk who'd nothing better to do on a Friday night. The crowd were just numbers and they don't necessarily account for the number of votes.

In the end, Singaporeans could be "all talk and no action". It's easy to create "Hate" campaigns and Fan pages, generating traffic to the sites. It's effortless to create pseudonymous and post comments. But come 7 May 2011, can Singaporeans be trusted to do what they pledged to do in cyberspace?

Much is at stake since our 2 sole opposition MPs have upped the ante by leaving their wards to trusted party members while they boldly lead GRC teams to battle. It's a calculated risk: All or Nothing. And in the worst case scenario, PAP could win back these 2 opposition wards and all 87 seats will be theirs. A terrible blow to the opposition and a slap in the face of democracy.

A former JC classmate who lives in the next street (and in the same constituency) sent me a message on Facebook to seek my views. After several back-and-forth posts, I concluded with this:

"If you're not sure or comfortable with your decision, then you've gotta pick the one who's going to set your mind at ease. Don't be intimidated by what others say do (including what I've written to you). You have to think through and make a choice that won't eat at you."

I've made my choice and on Polling Day I know which box I'll be marking my cross on. I'm not telling of course, since my vote's supposed to be secret.

But you can bet your last dollar that I'll be up all night and glued to the TV while they announce the results. And I sure hope there'll be a celebration of sorts.

Down but not Out

2011-03-19T07:36:00.009+08:00

I had a pretty rough week emotionally.

Faced several issues at home pertaining mostly to the kids and the same old arguments about my inadequacy as a mother surfaced.

So yes, I'll openly admit that I'm not perfect and no matter what I do, I'll always be perceived as irresponsible and negligent.

Why?

Because I refuse to give up my career for my kids.

Because I don't spend enough time with them to ensure that they're academically brilliant.

Because I don't sign them up for the right type of enrichment classes that will help them achieve better academic results.

Because I'm too ill-disciplined to discipline my kids in accordance to military "YES, SIR!" and "YES, M'AM!" standards.

Because I openly shower my kids with hugs and kisses, and by doing so, demonstrate my love and affection to them, allowing them to catch hold of my weakness which they will exploit.

Because I don't know how to care for my girls when they get sick.

Because they're not eating sufficient nutrients and have poor meal-time habits.

Because I'm a terrible cook who can't feed the family with traditional recipes that will cure ailments.

Because my eldest is mildly dyslexic therefore I've tainted THEIR gene pool.

There's more, of course.

In essence, I'm a horrible mother with no redeeming qualities. I'm too soft with my kids and over-protective of them. I'm selfish and ill-disciplined, and I spend too much time in front of the computer playing mind-numbing games and indulging in social media activities.

For all that I've stated, I take full responsibility. I am guilty, as charged. And I await my sentence.

In my defence, I will only have this to say: what I'm doing for my children may be different from the usual practice, and I may not follow the rules religiously, but all's done with my children's best interests at heart. Every child is different so one rule doesn't fit all. Similarly Every mother is different, with different temperament and character and should be allowed to carve out own parenting style.

My thought of the week: "You had your chance to live your life the way you wanted. Now give others a chance to do the same. Please don't impose your views on what you think is right because you may not always be right. Just because others are different doesn't mean they are wrong."

And this is how I'm feeling right now:

The Caged Tiger
Confined in Space
Doped by Inertia
Placated by Comforts

Lost her appetite for thrills
Lost her ferocious roar
Lost her hunting skills
Gained unsharpened claws

But do not
Make the mistake
And do not
Underestimate

Try to touch her Cubs
Try to take them Away
Her Killer Instincts will Return
And the Perpetrator will Pay

For her Cubs
She will give her Life
A Fight to the End
A Fight till her Death

Teo Yuan Ching

19 March 2011

Copyright © 2011 Teo Yuan Ching

Who Dunnit? Chocs, Jelly Beans, Ice Cream or Watermelon?

2011-03-16T11:48:00.006+08:00

As a kid, I loved playing Parker Brother's Cluedo (or Clue in USA) and during the school holidays, I'd round up my cousins / neighbours / aunts to play the board game over and over and over again.

While Monopoly was another favourite, we usually got bored after a while 'cos technically there won't be an end to the game unless someone goes bankrupt. And once all the properties are bought, houses and hotels are built, the fun's almost over. So after rounds and rounds of collecting $200, landing in jail, trespassing on another player's property and paying "rent", someone would usually say, "OK. I'm bored. I'm done. Let's play something else!"

But with Cluedo, there's always an exciting end to solve the mysterious murder of Dr. Black. We loved playing detectives and would always race to check the clues, rule out suspects and wait for the opportune time to triumphantly declare "It's Professor Plum, in the Dinning Room, with a Candlestick! or "Colonel Mustard, in the Kitchen, with a Rope!"

It's been close to a decade (or more) since I dusted out the old board game. Come to think of it, I'm not sure if I still have it in my possession. It was a Christmas present from one of my aunts when I was 8 or 9 but I'm not sure what happened to it after I got married and moved out of my parents' home.

I'd forgotten all about Cluedo till this evening, when I returned from work today to find little Terrorliza coughing violently, with phlegm stuck in her throat. She managed to get to bed early but woke up again in the middle of the night because she was seized by a coughing fit which became progressively severe.

That was when a whole slew of accusations came hurtling towards my direction because I'd given her a piece of Toblerone chocolate over the weekend despite knowing that she was recovering from a bad throat / cough. My mum had taken the kids out during the day and like most doting grandmothers, she treated them to ice-cream and jelly beans. So she was another suspect.

I rushed Terrorliza to the toilet just in time and she threw up - blobs of phlegm and bits of...watermelon. (According to the wise, watermelon is considered a "cooling" fruit which shouldn't be consumed when one is coughing. Or something like that.)

After cleaning Terrorliza up, giving her some medication, rubbing Mentholatum on her chest, back and throat, my little one finally got to sleep albeit much whining and fussing.

I don't like to playing the finger-pointing game but since I'm now implicated in this whole situation, I'd better do something to solve the problem.

New fact: I wasn't home when Terrorliza had watermelon after dinner. And my mum had already left by then.

So fellow detectives, who or which was the culprit that triggered the return of Terrorliza's big, bad nasty cough?

(a) Mumsy (i.e. me) - because she gave Terrorliza a piece of chocolate on Saturday night

(b) Grandmee (i.e. my mum) - because she gave Terrorliza ice-cream and jelly beans on Wednesday afternoon

(d) All of the above

After much (soul) searching, I've come to the devastating conclusion that in this mystery, facts don't count for nought. So the culprits, by popular consensus, are (a) + (b). Simply because it's more convenient to find fault with others who're always considered to be incompetent, negligent, irresponsible and brainless.

I rest my case.

How to Start a Social Media Campaign: First Steps for Businesses to Monitor and Engage Consumers Online

2011-01-04T11:14:00.001+08:00

How to Start a Social Media Campaign: First Steps for Businesses to Monitor and Engage Consumers Online

I'm in the midst of preparing my lecture notes and I chanced upon this article. It's a tad old (published in December 2008) - and if I've learnt anything at all about technology and the 21st Century, it's that the minute something's launched, it's considered 'rad' for about 3 days before it's deemed out-dated - but still covers the basics of social media and its uses in businesses.

I don't confess to be a tech-whiz (far from it) but I do embrace what's new and will amble my Gen-X soul through the intricacies of the tech-age. Yes, it's a slow and steady race and I know I can't grasp the clicks, drags and drops as quickly as the Gen-Yers or the iGeneration, but I'm not competing against anyone but myself.

And as an educator and communicator, I am constantly searching for ways to connect with my students and help prepare them for the working world. And since I teach Corporate Communications, I need to practice what I preach and keep myself updated with the current trends. Naturally, I do have a blog, Facebook and Twitter accounts. Afterall, I need to mess around a bit to get familiar with them before I enter the classroom, knowing that I'm going up against ardent social media fans whose lives revolve around these platforms.

So, kids (yes, I know some of you guys read this space to find out what your old teacher is up to these days), don't discount the advanatges of social media and how your career (and businesses) could benefit from these seemingly "fun" platforms. You're already social media expert users - it's just a matter of refining and retuning your orientation towards a more "serious" approach.

2011 is here

2011-01-01T11:17:00.000+08:00

Happy 2011!

I'm too tired to write anything substantial now. Just wanna crash.

Hope 2011 will be a better year for everyone.

PEACE.

TODAYonline | World | World in Brief | Dead three-year-old fed olive oil and vinegar

2010-12-24T12:38:00.001+08:00

TODAYonline | World | World in Brief | Dead three-year-old fed olive oil and vinegar

What in the world is happening?!??!?!?

First, reports about online-game-crazy addict mums who kill their kids for "disturbing" their games. And now this??!?!?!

If people aren't ready to be parents, they should think twice about having a kid. Parenthood ain't child's play, folks. It's serious business.

Cruisin' for Brusin'

2010-12-19T08:21:00.042+08:00

Ahoy Mateys!

Last week, our family of 3+2+2 went for our first cruise vacation. It was a 3 day/night trip on a Singapore-Penang-KL-Singapore route on board Royal Caribbean Cruise's Legend of the Seas.

The last time I was on one of these cruise ships was back in 1985 when I accompanied my folks on a Scandinavian holiday. We left London for Denmark via ship before travelling on a combination of a tour bus road trip and ship to Norway and Sweden, and then back to London. En route back to London, the English Channel was throwing up enormous waves and I was rocked from one side of the ship to the other. At 11, I was rather independent and my folks often left me to own my devices so I roamed the ship on my own (I even shared a cabin with a 74-year-old English lady who was travelling alone). I even recalled I'd gone to watch Ghostbusters and when Dad came to pick me up from the ship's theatre he found me sitting on the stairs as I was giddy from the wobbling and couldn't stand or walk straight without my legs giving way.

You could say that I don't have very fond memories of my last sea adventure.

My parents and I were travelling in the North Sea where the waters are much choppier than the relatively calmer seas within the South East Asian region. Then again, I could be wrong since I'm not much of a Geography student.

Anyway, this trip was a rather last minute decision and the hub was pretty keen on it since he's never been on a cruise holiday before. After weighing the pros and cons of jetting off to another country by air (the cost of 7 tickets is a hefty fee) and considering the activities we're limited to doing as a family - the elderly can't walk far while the kids are too happy scampering all over the place and if the 3 girls dart off in separate directions, the hub and I would be outrun - we decided on a cruise so that my in-laws could retire in the room if they were tired.

Of course, there was another draw: the *ker-ching* machines at the casino on the ship if FIL got bored on board. (Pun intended).

It turned out to be a pretty decent vacation though as usual, the hub and I didn't exactly relax because for some strange reason, kids always, and I mean ALWAYS seem to go on automatic "stress-mum-and-dad" overdrive whenever they're on a holiday. Parents of young children would understand *exactly* what I'm talking about.

It's like all 3 kids were on a super-duper sugar diet. As expected, there was lots of screaming, yelling, laughter, tears. And I haven't even begun to describe my hyperactive kiddos.

The girls eagerly waiting to board the ship

We were fortunate to get two cabins next to each other, especially since I made the booking almost 2 weeks before setting off and it was running on a 100% occupancy rate. They gave us Oceanview Staterooms (2556 & 2558) that were meant for wheel-chair bound travellers and this was great as the cabins were roomier and the toilets were bigger.

The 3 girls in their "woo-hoo-we're-on-holiday-let's mess-up-the-bed" mode

Xian shared a room with her grandparents while the younger girls bunked in with us. Every morning, a grumpy Xian would shuffle into our room to brush her teeth and change. (She wasn't happy that she'd to be separated from us but 5 to a cabin is a pretty tight squeeze).

Honestly, you can never go hungry on the ship. Almost every corner of the ship was a counter to get food. There seemed to be a never-ending buffet at the Windjammer Cafe and that was also where we encountered some really ugly Singaporeans who laid bare their disgusting attitudes.

On the first day we boarded, we could only get into our rooms after 2pm so most of us adjourned to Windjammer Cafe for lunch. By the time we made our way up to Deck 9, the only seats left were at the poolside outside the cafe which was where we sat. The hub, Xian and I had to stand in queue to enter the cafe to get food as the service staff were busy trying to replenish the dishes. The poor cafe crew had to prevent passengers from barging their way into the cafe and some were obviously trying to cut the queue by providing lame excuses. This was what the hub overheard:

Cafe Crew: Sorry sir, we're replenishing the food right now. Please give us a moment.
Rude Man: I'm only going inside to get sugar. Why can't I go in?
Cafe Crew: We have sugar outside at the drink station just behind me. You can get sugar there.
Rude Man: But I want to go in. The sugar inside tastes better!

Pardon me, but what kind of blistering idiot is this?!?! "The sugar inside tastes better?" WTF?!

And while I was standing in line with Xian, a young lady about 18/19 in tight black shorts pushed her way in front, elbowed Xian and growled at the cafe crew:

Rude Girl: Excuse me. I already got a place outside. Why must I queue?
Cafe Crew: I'm sorry Ma'am. There's no more food. Please give us some time to replenish the food.

Rude Girl (clucks her tongue impatiently): How long must I wait?!!
Cafe Crew: About 5 minutes, Ma'am.
Rude Girl: OK. You said 5 minutes right?
Cafe Crew: Yes Ma'am. About 5 minutes.
Rude Girl: I'll come back in exactly 5 minutes. (Read: I'm coming back in 5 minutes and I mean EXACTLY 5 minutes. I better be allowed in since you said 5 minutes. I'm holding you accountable to your words or you'll be sorry.)

The Rude Girl wheeled about, flicked her long hair, cursed under her breath as she stormed off in a rage. She brushed against Xian again but didn't apologise. That was when Xian and I exchanged looks and I could see Xian's puzzled face because she didn't understand what the fuss was about.

Really, it wasn't a long wait and I didn't see the need for imprudence or impatient because there's PLENTY of food! Needless to say, we didn't fancy having all our meals there so we chose to dine at the Romeo and Juliet Restaurant (which serves only breakfast and dinner) on Deck 4 whenever possible.

1st Night - Formal Dinner

Penang was our first stop and that's also where we had originally planned to visit before we joined the cruise. In fact, the only reason why we picked this route was because Penang was one of the port of calls. We decided not to join any of the tours to Penang arranged by the ship so made prior arrangements to hire a private passenger bus to take us around. When we berthed at Penang, we set out to visit several beautiful temples: Snake Temple (and yes, I held up a snake!), Kek Lok Si Temple, Wat Chaiyamangkalaram (Thai Buddhist Temple) andDhammikarama Burmese Temple and stopped along the way to enjoy some Penang Assam Laksa and Fried Hokkien Noodles. With only about 5 hours to spare, that was all we had time for before heading back to the ship. A real pity because there were a few more temples and other popular places like the Toy Museum we wanted to visit.

Great Snakes! It's alive!

Kek Lok Si Temple

Who's the real monkey?

Done with Assam Laksa?

Thai Buddhist Temple

Thai Buddhist Temple - Reclining Buddha

Burmese Buddhist Temple

Look who's pooped out?

The next day we reached Kuala Lumpur (KL) where we took the tour bus to visit KLCC and Petronas Twin Towers, Chinatown and Lot 10 Shopping Mall. Owing to overwhelming response from our fellow passengers who wanted to do shopping, our route was changed so we stopped for a quick photograph view of KLCC and proceeded to Lot 10. We probably spent 15 minutes in Lot 10 before deciding there wasn't much we could buy (too expensive) and walked opposite to Sungei Wang where bought school shoes, casual shoes and Chinese New Year clothes for the kids. That was just about it for KL.

A view of KLCC - Petronas Twin Towers

Back on board Legend of the Seas, we were treated to a surprise dinner performance by the waiters, chefs and service crew at the Romeo and Juliet Restaurant. We also enjoyed the final evening show at Deck 5's That's Entertainment lounge before heading back to the cabins. The kids stayed with the in-laws for a bit while the hub and I wandered around the ship as we'd never really got the chance to explore the place.

We chanced upon the midway screening of Twilight: Eclipse at the Anchors Aweigh Lounge and sat down to watch. After 15 minutes, the hub got bored and wanted to return to the cabin but I chose to stay on to finish the film - not that it was such an awesome movie, but it was the only time I was "free" of the kids and I could chill for a bit. By the time the screening ended, it was midnight and when I got back, the girls were asleep. (I think the hub was a little miffed as he'd wanted to take his father to the casino for the last night).

The girls with regular table waitress who's from Romania

Cruise Director Bobby and the performers

My final verdict? The Legend of the Seas is worth any sea adventurer's salt and I'd give it a 3.5 stars out of 5. Despite my initial misgivings about the trip, I quite enjoyed myself and my only regret was that I didn't the chance to try out the facilities or roam about freely on decks without having to worry about a kid running off or hiding in some corner. But the kids had fun and that's all that matters.

Having said that, travelling companions are crucial as they have the ability completely wipe out your enthusiasm even if you're on a 5 star cruise liner. I would love to make another trip with the ship, this time on a different route to different destinations. :)

A family photo of 5 of us

Almost The End (of 2010)

2010-11-30T13:14:00.010+08:00

It's the last day of November and it's creeping me out!

I've had my fair share of Ups and Downs - perhaps a lot more disappointments than pleasant surprises - but there's still one more month to go. Hopefully, December will be the chocolate syrup on the mudpie! (I've been trying to cut down on chocolate 'cos it's been destroying my teeth and waistline...)

A couple of things lined up for December: Walking with Dinosaurs show with the kids at the National Indoor Stadium and a 3 Night Best of Malaysia cruise (family of 3+2+2) on board Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas.

Am I looking forward to the break? Well, yes and no. I mean, who wouldn't want a holiday? Although it's a short trip (and a short reprieve from work) and I'm looking forward to spending some quality time with my kids, I'd have preferred a longer vacation and one that will allow for a little more "freedom".

But who am I to complain? I should thank my lucky stars for what I have and not compare my situation with others.

All the same, I'm waiting for the day when I can finally break the chains of constraints. Then again, perhaps when the time comes, I may *actually* miss the moments of insanity and frustration.

Whatever.

Anyway, last Saturday was the school's 20th Anniversary Dinner & Dance at The Fairmont Singapore Hotel. 10 iPads were up for grabs as lucky draw prizes but alas, I wasn't fated to win any. There were over 1,000 staff - what were the odds of me laying my hands on one of them?

But my tablemates and I did enjoy ourselves with the games despite not winning anything. I didn't take many photos either but did snap a couple and here they are:

The 3 Amigos - taken from Ramesh's camera

Ms Cool "sandwiched" between the Mumsys

Half of Table 78

Table 78 and "guests"

Food for thought: will we all still be around for the 25th Anniversary D&D?

Today, I Rest

2010-11-25T18:33:00.006+08:00

I woke up a wreck this morning but as the day progressed, things picked up a little.

No rainbows, sugar-coated cupcakes or pretty butterflies. But I'm able to breathe a little and sort out my thoughts.

The item which I thought I'd lost turned up at someone else's desk so I didn't misplace it after all. It just wasn't returned to me.

I'm just too relieved for words.

Other issues were clarified even though irreparable damage has already been done and my integrity was called into question. Whatever I worked hard to establish over the years was wiped out in an instant through no fault of mine. I presented my case, explained my part and will hope for the best. But I know things will never ever be the same again and that the smudged stain will remain despite applying the most effective cleaning agents to get rid of the traces.

I'm just too old for this type of emotional roller-coaster. Perhaps these few days taught me a lesson - don't ever be complacent and take things for granted.

Today, I rest my weary head and heart. I hope for a good night's sleep.

Today, I Despair

2010-11-24T19:40:00.011+08:00

For the first time in many years, I suddenly feel like throwing everything away and going into hiding.

I'm a little ashamed to say it but I think I'm losing it - my stuff, my patience, my mind. Last Friday I lost my handphone. My battered and chipped Nokia N95 accompanied me to the washroom and that was the last I'd seen of it. It was an old phone and it had seen better days, but I was more distraught about losing the data - contacts and most importantly, photos and videos of my kids. I just don't like the thought of someone else looking through my messages, private details and memories of my family.

Today, I realised I lost something important and what's worse, it doesn't belong to me. I searched the whole office upside down, turned everything inside and out but I couldn't find it.

I've just about had it with myself and everything else. Maybe this is a sign that I should reconsider my options and take stock of what's happening in my life.

As predicted, Xian's results were disappointing but what's more upsetting is that I don't know how to help her pull through this. I don't have the answers and I certainly don't have the solution to solve her issues.

And I feel alone in this because everyone else in the family has a conflicting view towards her dyslexia. The hub strongly believes Xian just needs to work hard to overcome her learning disabilities. Everyone wants her to do better and is encouraging her in different ways. Perhaps I'm overly sensitive but some of the remarks, while uttered with good intentions, appear to have produced a negative effect on Xian. I sense her helplessness and frustration but I'm equally at a loss. Fingers point at my direction for not guiding her properly - what kind of mother am I for not spending enough time and effort in helping her revise her schoolwork before the exams? Why didn't I take leave from work to guide her properly?

At work, I'm scrambling to complete deadlines and handle administrative responsibilities that come with my appointment. I have no qualms about admitting that I am happier teaching. Management work is something I don't fancy and it's what I turned away from in my previous job because I wanted to focus and concentrate on being a teacher who'll make a difference to others' lives. I don't want the additional responsibilities of managing other people or being held accountable for the actions of others.

I'm no quitter, but today, I've had it. It's been such a long time since I've felt this miserable and I'm totally, absolutely disgusted with myself.

I'm not strong enough. I'm crying as I type this. I just fucking hate myself for being so uncharacteristically weak and for being in this deplorable state. I just want to lock myself away and throw away the damn key. I'm not asking for sympathy and I don't others to pity me because I don't deserve any and I sure as hell don't want to drag anyone down.

I'm writing because that's always been my way of coping with stress. And I was hoping that it would, as always, make me feel a little better.

But even this is not working. And I'm rambling on without a structure in place. I'm furiously keying in my thoughts as they flash across my mind.

Today, I despair.
My emotions are beyond repair.
I just want to scream.
I just want to escape.

Today, I am an empty tank.
My mind is a state of blank.
I just want to weep.
I just want to hate.

Today, I am derailed.
My five senses have failed.
I just want to disappear.
I just want to get away from it all.

What the hell is happening to me?

Parenthood 102

2010-11-02T00:02:00.003+08:00

Parenthood is one heck of a scary journey.

And it's terrifying when I realise that even with a compass, map and GPS system in place, I will still have to fumble and try to figure my way around this long, winding path and there's no guarantee there'll be a light shinning brightly at the end of the tunnel.

I've completed the basic module Parenthood 101: The First 6 Years and now I've started on Parenthood 102: The Primary School Years. Last week marked the start of Xian's semesterial examinations. I'll be first to admit that I've not been diligently helping her with the revision. In fact, my parents are probably more anxious and worried, and they are the ones who've been supervising her closely. I don't recall them getting all flustered when I was in lower primary but I suppose times have changed.

Xian's dyslexia has also knocked some sense into me and I've adjusted my expectations accordingly. As long as she passes her examinations with credible grades (70 and above) I'm not going to quibble with it.

My fingers are crossed. Wish I could do the same with my toes. *~*

Although I never wanted to be a"kiasu" Singaporean parent and refrained from packing my kids off to endless enrichment classes, I realised that I could be doing them a disfavour if their peers are miles ahead. And the worst? Most teachers actually expect the children to be saddled with these extra lessons and hence assume that the kids already know the "basics".

Wen's going to K2 next year and I'm not taking chances because I realised Xian struggled with Chinese (which she's now taking as Higher Chinese in school). That's why I decided to send Wen to Han Language Centre to expose her to Chinese since our home environment is not conducive for cultivating a love for the language. There are several branches in Singapore and there's one just in Kovan where we stay so it's convenient for me to ferry her up and down.

Here's what I got from the website:

Pre-school Fun Learning 1 to 1.5hrs per session (Nursery to K2)
Designed to meet the key objective of arousing the students’ interest in the Chinese language, the programme brings the Chinese language alive through puppet role play, stories-listening, folk songs, interactive games, simple poems recitals and tongue twisters!

I sure hope that Wen will enjoy the classes and learn to appreciate Chinese and hopefully this will help prepare her for Primary school in 2 years' time.

With each child, I'm experiencing a whole new set of issues to deal with. Just wondering what I'll have to face when it's Wei's turn. Perhaps it's best not to worry too much about it and let things come naturally.

Murder of teen at Downtown East mistaken for Halloween prank - Channel NewsAsia

2010-11-01T22:27:00.002+08:00

Murder of teen at Downtown East mistaken for Halloween prank - Channel NewsAsia

This must be the greatest Halloween horror story.

A nasty prank gone wrong? In any case, it's a disaster. One that will send shivers up your spine.

NBX Toys!

2010-10-27T21:32:00.008+08:00

Last week, I decided it was time to reward myself for all the extra work that I've put in over the last few months - the added responsibilities that come with my recent appointment.

There are very few material things that delight me. Diamonds aren't my best friends and retail therapy for branded goods don't appeal. Much as I'd like an exotic holiday or a trip to cooler climates and continents, the reality is that it's getting expensive to travel for a family of 5 + 2 so I'm content with short breaks to the neighbouring regions.

Only two things will really rock my world: books and toys.

I've bought a couple of books (work-related, parenting and fiction) but haven't found the right time to sit down quietly to and leisurely leaf through the crisp, smooth pages. Before I picked up driving again, I'd use the opportunity while waiting for buses to enjoy a good read. Obviously that's not possible these days when I'm trying to keep my concentration on the road while zipping around in trusty ol' Pollie.

And since my LOTR collection is as good as complete, I've moved on to collect other action figurines. I started collecting Tim Burton's Nightmare Before Christmas (NBX) and Corpse Bride toys about two years ago and am proud to say I'm almost done with the figurines - mainly because there are less characters to collect compared to the LOTR series.

I still have some missing NBX action figures and have been trawling the net in search of these rare gems. My usual source e.g. ebay didn't offer many choices and I wasn't about to pay an exorbitant USD200 for each a toy. I may be a fan but I do set certain limits for myself.

Finally, I resorted to searching through Amazon.com and was pleased to find two items: NECA Nightmare Before Christmas Lock, Stock & Barrel Bathtub Boxed Set priced at USD39.95 and NECA Nightmare Before Christmas Series 1 Sally Action Figure priced at USD54.99. Not exactly within my budget, especially after the shipping costs, but I figured "what the heck?" and proceeded to click "buy".

NECA Nightmare Before Christmas Lock, Stock & Barrel Bathtub Boxed Set

NECA Nightmare Before Christmas Series 1 Sally Action Figure

Needless to say, I'm now eagerly waiting the arrival of my new toys. I'd also bought a couple from ebay UK and sent them over to Liz's home. She'd brought 4 back to Singapore but couldn't fit them all in her luggage so her hubby will be lugging the remaining few when he flies from UK in November.

At least that's something to look forward to as I tread cautiously into the final two months of 2010. :)

Drained. Of. Every. Ounce.

2010-10-20T21:31:00.001+08:00

Haven't written anything in months.

Am putting in 12-hour work days and yet I'm still struggling for time. It's not a case of poor time management. It's just that all my "committee work" i.e. the co-curricular activities that we're assigned to undertake started piling up one after the other. This, plus tying up loose ends for the end-of-old-term and preparing for the start-of-new-term administrative matters.

Added to that, I'd just completed co-organising the division's Staff Retreat last week.

Me = pooped. Seriously exhausted.

And the new school term starts next week. Xian's exams also begin next week and I'm beginning to feel the heat.

Someone please pass me some Energizer batteries. Need to recharge quickly. NOW.

Wake Me Up When September Ends

2010-09-17T20:43:00.005+08:00

We're midway through September and I still haven written about the most exciting event that took place in August!

I'm really saving the entry for a day when I'm really in a mood to write.

Sadly, this day may never come. At least not within the next few days because we're right in the middle of examination processing and the Board of Examiners' Meet is on Tuesday. For this examination cycle, I'm back to the Assistant Year Leader post (Yay!) which means I'll be writing the minutes instead of doing up the report which includes working with numbers (Yay! Yay!).

Right now, I'm sick with a dreadful cough, pounding headache topped off with nasty abdominal cramps. It got so bad this morning that I was kneeling on my office chair, clutching to a cushion with my head on the table. I was in serious pain and it honestly felt like I was experiencing contractions before childbirth.

The cramps eventually subsided after I took my medication. My colleague who sits in the opposite cubicle, a very concerned Ms Kool, bought me a packet of chicken rice (de-skinned, with plain white rice) as I couldn't walk out for lunch. It was tasteless.

Then again, everything I'd eaten since last week seemed unappetising and bland. I hadn't had much of an appetite and should have known that I was falling ill. I realised I was extremely sick when I turned away from chocolates without any tinge of regret.

Despite of my discomfort, I really had no choice but to stick around because of some exam procedures that needed to be settled before the exam results could be processed by the system. And everything could only be done during a specific time frame. Thankfully, I was feeling much better in the middle of the afternoon and proceeded to assist my Year Leader with compiling some tables for his report.

Now I'm back home and feeling much better. Had my bath and dinner, and am enjoying some "me" time while the kids are at my folks' place. They should be back soon though...

Anyway, I read one of Miss Ene's tweets about a Green Day song which I love, Wake Me Up When September Ends and posted a comment. She promptly send a music file over - "something to help with the marking". I'm not sure about other teachers and lecturers, but I usually play my favourite songs when I'm grading papers to put me in a better mood ;)

Here's Green Day's Wake Me Up When September Ends

Toddler quits smoking

2010-09-02T23:57:00.002+08:00

Toddler quits smoking

This must be most horrifying piece of news I've received in a long time.

Minus natural disasters, terrorist attacks and accidents, of course.

How in the world could any sane parent give a toddler a cigarette to smoke?!!? This 2-year-old kid was smoking 2 packs of cigarettes a DAY!

Initially, I taught it was a hoax until I saw the photo.

It's sickening. Why do people perform such ridiculous, downright atrocious acts? Honestly, if you want to smoke, no one is stopping you. But to offer it to an innocent toddler who doesn't know better? That's plain irresponsibility and stupidity!

My heart goes out to the poor kid. According to the reports, he's now cured. But I'm not sure how this is going to last before he succumbs to the stick again...

'Spiderman' arrested

2010-08-31T22:18:00.001+08:00

'Spiderman' arrested

The world is full of strange people with strange past-times like climbing skyscrapers with their bare hands and getting arrested for it.

Apparently the French Spiderman has been in trouble with the law before but that obviously didn't stop him from scaling yet another building.

Plus, he's got an AGENT!

I guess he's made sufficient money from his crazy exploits to warrant the services of a publicist to manage his "career".

Of dates, love and such

2010-08-25T19:04:00.015+08:00

I was chatting with a friend over lunch the other day and we randomly ventured into the "eX-zone" i.e. we talked about our previous relationship(s).

In all honesty, I couldn't comment much because officially I've only ever had two serious boyfriends. And I married one of them. I didn't even go on many casual dates - just 1 or 2 - and after that, made it perfectly clear that I'd much prefer to draw the line at "friends" and nothing more.

So when it comes to BGR stuff, I'm not the right person to go to for advice because I don't have much experience to share.

Anyway, I'm not exactly the kind of girl a guy would instantly fall head-over-heals in love with. (You know the type guys prefer: sweet, beautiful, slim, demure and candy-coated etc.) Back in my growing years, I was a slightly chubby 17-year-old with a dark sense of humour and possessed a rather acidic view of the world, a moody, broody cynical being with issues. Ironically I wasn't a loner and I had friends from both genders. Most of my male friends (and now even colleagues) treat me as just one of the guys and I sometimes think they forget I'm not a man. Case in point: I participate in their no holds barred, expletive-ridden swearing sessions but these get toned down if there's another female (besides myself) present. Besides, there were never any romantic sparks that ignited and I enjoy the platonic friendships that I've forged over the years.

Coincidentally, some weeks back, someone else casually asked what I looked for in a guy. Naturally, the image of the hub popped up and I tried to pin down the X-factor which attracted me to him.

There wasn't a single factor.

Not one.

But there were several things.

First of all, it wasn't purely physical attraction. The hub's not handsome, but he's pleasant-looking in a cute, nerdy way. (Perhaps the look has just grown onto me). Although he's not very tall, he was fit and had a decent, proportionate physique. I was quite into sports then so I was drawn to the fact that he was a swimmer and long-distance runner.

More importantly, I admired his principles and practical, dependable nature. In short, he made "good hubby" material. And I think those qualities sealed my fate.

But if you ever have the chance to ask the hub why he settled down with me, all you might get is a blank stare. I'm sure he didn't know what possessed him to get tangled up with me - other than the fact that I'm independent, "different" (for the lack of a better word) and relatively "low maintenance".

This same person asked if I'd ever go out with a handsome dude. My immediate reaction was "No". To me, just because you have the face or body of a Greek god doesn't mean I'll date you. Especially if you've got the personality of a clipped toenail.

It's also partly because of old insecurities inflicted during my tender years when I observed how boys drooled after pretty, doe-eyed, airheads who enjoyed the attention and flattery, toyed and flirted endlessly with their suitors. And the same for the hunks who knew their value was pegged to the number of lasses they dangled on their beefy arms. Their reputation was also based on the countless hordes of girls who snuck out of the boys' hostel rooms in the early mornings.

I detest the whole "use-and-dump" mentality. Really, if you don't like the guy or girl, why lead them into thinking there's hope when you clearly just want to have fun? What's the point of getting into a relationship when you haven't the slightest intention of keeping it going? And if you want to play the field, please let the other party be aware of this.

Don't get me wrong. I'm not preaching about moral issues. In this day and age, as long as mutual consent is given, anything goes. I'm not old fashion but I believe that we should take into consideration people's emotions. There will come a time when the physical relationship may take a plunge. What then? Will there be anything to bind the couple if sex is absent or they're forced apart because of work, travel and other commitments?

I don't have any answers, of course.

Do forgive me for ranting about such seemingly trivial issues. Lately I've seen so many cracks in relationships, some of which surfaced early but were ignored or casually swept aside only to be accumulated to an irreparable state over the years. I've also met people who don't appear to treasure what they have and hanker for more. Then there are the jaded ones who've lost faith in themselves and their partners, and cruise along detachedly, waiting for miracles they know will never happen.

Morbid, eh? Well, perhaps now you'll understand why I'm lousy company to keep when I get into one of these pensive moods. And why I make a terrible date.

Oh boy, do I pity my poor, poor hub. He'll have to put up with my nonsense till death do us part! Got to love him for his patience. Ha! ;D

TODAYonline | World | Vuvuzela now a valid English word

2010-08-20T13:55:00.001+08:00

TODAYonline World Vuvuzela now a valid English word

The most annoying piece of South Africa's World Cup 2010 history has officially made it to Oxford Dictionary's latest edition.

And suddenly, I want go get a Vuvuzela for myself! Just think of how effective it will be when I try to wake sleepy Xian up at 5.30 in the mornings.

August Rush

2010-08-18T17:01:00.001+08:00

Too many things happened in the last 3 weeks.

But this isn't the right time to sit and pen down my thoughts. Another stack of marking awaits. The scripts are eyeballing me.

I go now.

But I shall return. Soon.

Life & Times of Mumsy

2010-07-30T08:46:00.010+08:00

These days, my life is, quite literally, an open book.

With Web 2.0 tools so easily available, I'm spoilt for choice. My preferred channels continue to be blogs, Facebook (FB) and most recently, Twitter. It's fun to read the responses I get when I update my status either via FB or Twitter. Besides, you can tell quite a bit about people from the comments they make.

And because I like to express my feelings through writing, my personal favourite is still blogging because this allows me to delve into details. Twitter acts more like a headline or teaser so it's useful when I just want to post random thoughts without elaborating.

I know some people are uncomfortable about dishing out personal details about their lives in such a public sphere. To them, it's akin to washing dirty linen in public. But I do have some "rules" which I've put in place and I'm careful to reveal only certain bits and pieces of my life.

In other words, I practise self-censorship.

One of my main reasons for penning my thoughts is that I'm using this as a platform to express myself. I'm also using this as a way to document my own experiences for my girls so that when they're older, they can read for themselves what I've been going through.

Over the last few months, I've witnessed many situations in which parents and children suffer a breakdown in communication and this is usually caused by differences in thinking, i.e. the "generation gap". I know it's only going to be a matter of time that I'll fall prey to this natural phenomena when my children will start to drift away and resent my presence.

No matter how open I am, no matter how close our relationships are, I am sure they will start to retreat into their private worlds once they "come of age". I'm constantly reminded of this by reports in the media and also when I hear my own students talking about strained relations with their parents.

Perhaps this is why I'm trying to keep myself abreast with trends and new communication tools. I don't want to be outdated and lose touch with what's current.

Am I trying too hard? I have no answer to this. All I know is that I *refuse* to be a mother who's unreasonable and won't try to communicate with her kids in a manner which they're comfortable with. At the same time, I don't wish to spoil them rotten.

*Sigh*

I wish parenthood came with an instructional manual and a money back guarantee too.

TODAYonline | Hot News | 401 suicides last year: SOS

2010-07-27T10:24:00.009+08:00

TODAYonline Hot News 401 suicides last year: SOS

From a mother's perspective, this is possibly the most gut-wrenching tragedy to experience: that of your child taking his or her own life. The guilt that consumes soon-after, the horrible realisation a loved one was calling out for help, and nobody responded or even realised something was wrong.

All it takes is that little nudge to throw things off balance. And then it's too late. A life lost. And the effects are irreversible.

There are a plethora of reasons why someone would want to contemplate suicide: being driven to a corner, feeling desperate, lost and helpless, with seemingly no way out.

I've been there. Although it was an abrupt decision that stayed for all three seconds and vanished promptly, the fact remained that the idea was tempting.

This happened many years ago, when I was about 15 or 16. The usual combination of pressure from parents, school work, identity crisis, self-doubt etc. resulted in the creation of an emotional wreck.

I was having difficulty coping with school work: flunking Mathematics, Physics and Chinese continuously. It didn't help that my friends were brilliant students who constantly obtained no less than distinctions when I was struggling to scrape through. This in turn affected my other subjects like English, Literature and History which I sometimes sacrificed in order to spend more time on my weaker ones. Unfortunately for me, I had to choose a Science combination at school because that was the only option available and for the longest time, I loathed this because I was clearly an Arts student.

Of course, there was the usual range of relationship issues which plague teenagers incessantly: crushes, infatuations, situations of being sandwiched between friends and lovers etc. I was caught up in many of these intricate webs and it was an exhausting affair to extricate myself out of complicated messes.

My parents were not very expressive (save for the usual torrent of verbal lashings which were aimed at my incompetence, laziness and overall appalling behaviour) and couldn't deal with the changes their teenager was going through. I was an emo kid. Back in the 80s and 90s, this term hadn't been coined yet, but yes, I definitely was emo.

I managed to overcome my personal issues with the help of friends, the same wonderful bunch whose names were pinned up on the board when the 'O' level results were released - the ones who got 10/9/8/7/6 distinctions. They didn't care if I was "academically challenged" and didn't laugh when I managed to secure 2 distinctions (a pale comparison to their 10/8/9/7/6) and I think that encouraged and motivated me. Though we aren't as close as we are today because our own work and family commitments, I'm thankful and grateful that they provided listening ears and kind words, and pulled me back from the brink.

As a teen, I discovered another way to overcome my little pockets of depression: writing. I churned out several short stories and poems whenever I became moody in school. And it's a practice I still continue till this day, as you can plainly see. For me, writing is therapeutic although to some others, it's viewed as a complete waste of time. Personally I think it's rude and inconsiderate to comment otherwise. Everyone has different coping mechanisms and strategies and we should all learn to accommodate each other.

My reasoning, no matter how clouded it was back in those dark days, was much influenced by emotions and sense of responsibility. Perhaps that was also my saving grace because I immediately felt ashamed about even daring to entertain the possibility of ending my own life. I couldn't bear the thought of hurting my own parents through my selfish, foolish and ridiculous actions.

This entry didn't start out as a pouring-of-woes confession. That was hardly my intention at all. But, as usual, now that it's out in the open, I feel like a burden has been lifted because very few people actually knew what I was going through when I was younger, that I even harboured such terrible thoughts.

Back to my original point. Suicide is a cruel and painful way of leaving this world. Cruel and painful to the ones who have to continue the journey of life with memories of what-could-have-beens. Perhaps the 401 people who terminated their own lives should have pondered over this a little more before they executed their deadly actions.

Emo Mumsy Alert

2010-07-23T19:00:00.021+08:00

*WARNING: Long Entry*

For the last few weeks I've been feeling a little blue. Ever since Monday, things have gotten worse. I've tried to put my finger on it, but I couldn't seem to pin down what's causing this minor depression of sorts.

So. What are the possible causes of this emotional instability?

On the home front, there's been some frustration trying to work out Xian's academic schedule and making arrangements for her to start classes at DAS. She's still struggling with her homework, particularly Mathematics which also happens to be my weakest subject in school and I'm of not much help. There's also been disagreements about differing approaches towards her education: the use of persuasive motivation vs old school military discipline.

Wen's turning out to be quite a worrying problem too. Wen's inattentive in class because she becomes bored, restless and distracted by her classmates easily. Her English teacher from Jan & Elly observed that she's trouble catching up in class and is lagging behind her peers. He hinted that there's not much he can do and suggested that she starts on individual coaching (that would cost me a bomb!) Alternatively I could send her to DAS for as assessment but the hub's dead set against this because he doesn't think Wen's dyslexic.

At work, I've been given more tasks and responsibilities. However, as my new appointment started mid-way through the term, my teaching workload remained status quo. Actually, I'm quite glad I got to keep my classes because that's the MAIN reason why I'm in this job: I love teaching.

This week, my Corporate Events Management (CEM) class went down to the Singapore Garden Festival at Suntec City to collect more Pebble Pledges. All thanks to my old friend Kenny who allowed them the opportunity to work on a real event with a real client. As their tutor, I went down to cheer them on and was impressed by their determination and boundless energy. Mind you, this isn't even their Grand Finale which, by the way, will be held at City Square Mall next Saturday, 31 July 2010, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Yeah, that was pretty much an open, hard-sell plea to get more visitors to support our event.

Teaching CEM is always an exhausting affair because tutors definitely "teach" more than the allotted 3 hours per week. I get frequent updates by email and sms, and have had to try resolve countless issues. It's a never ending task till the event is well and truly over. Yet, my sadistic nature thrives on such challenges and although it's time-consuming and energy-draining, I enjoy teaching this subject. It helps that I'm working with Kenny (my ex-chairman during our student council days at NYJC) on this project as we've been friends since 17 and know each other pretty well.

But no, this cranky, brooding mood I'm in has got nothing to do with my CEM class and I'm quite resigned to the fact that my own children will need lots of guidance and support in their school work. No matter how stressed I am at work, it's never affected me emotionally to THIS extent of being angsty, irritable and helpless.

Perhaps it's a combination of various factors that have resulted in the culmination of this mental state. The Super Me dream could be a subconscious sign that I'm losing control and focus in the real world, and that I should fight back and lay claim on my own life. And when I'm in one these moods, I usually listen to a particular genre of music: edgy, acoustic, emo rock tracks like this song from Scouting for Girls, "This Ain't A Love Song":

As the old saying goes, music does soothe the savage beast.

The radio channel in Pollie (my car) is permanently fixed at Class 95. But yesterday, I became irked by the music playlist and switched between Power 98 and Perfect 10 - music stations that offer noiser music catered to the grunge youths. For some strange, unexplainable reason, I wanted to turn up the volume to the sounds of heavier guitar riffs to drown out everything else.

And boy, did it feel good. It was as if all the pent-up anger that I'd been bottling up for weeks exploded with every beat of the drum.

Today, on my way home from work, realisation swept over me. I finally found the cause of this unsettling emotional state.

I was in love. And I was heart-broken.

Before you jump into conclusions, let me clarify that my marriage is NOT on the rocks and that I love my hub dearly and have no intention of severing ties with him.

The object of my affection is not another man or any other person for that matter.

I'm in love with BCM2006 - that's the course code for Film Theory & Criticism. And I'm ripped apart because I won't be teaching it next semester. Instead, I've been given another subject to manage because my team's shorthanded (my colleague who's usually the Subject Leader of the module is on maternity leave).

Stupid though it may sound, I was absolutely crushed when I discovered that I wouldn't be teaching film in the October semester. Unequivocally devastated. My immediate reaction was that my class had lodged a complaint, possibly because I forced them to watch Orson Welles' Citizen Kane and Akira Kurosawa's Seven Samurai amongst other films. (In my defence, I'll maintain that no self-respecting film student can ever get away from watching these two critically acclaimed classics.)

Then again, if it were *REALLY* that terrible to sit through 4 hours a week in my classes, then I should have many absentees every week, right? I wouldn't have an *almost* perfect record of 23 out of 23 students in EVERY single lecture/tutorial for the past 11 weeks, would I? So far, only 1 student was absent this term and she was on medical leave. And on one occasion, I'd dragged the lesson till 6.15 p.m without realising and no-one in class even protested, hinted that I'd exceeded class time or told me to shut up. And these students aren't meek, mild-mannered and mindless. They're vocal, inquisitive and would stop me mid-way through lectures with questions.

I may not be the best teacher in the world but I know I ain't that atrocious to get kicked out of class. I'd reviewed the notes, updated the materials and changed the film list to include a broad range of films. Didn't my previous class give positive comments and feedback about the subject and delivery?

*Sigh*

My (new) boss assured me that I'll have a chance to teach the module again next year. I understand the team's position about subject allocation and am mindful that we really are temporarily understaffed. I'm pleased to be subject leader of Corporate Journalism & Publications and savour the opportunity to inject some new ideas for the subject in October.

But fact remains that I won't be teaching Film. And this has hit me really hard. I've been in education for 9 years and while I do have pet subjects (the ones I really look forward to teaching), I've never EVER had such strong reaction when I'm not given a subject to teach.

After mulling over this, I've concluded that I enjoy teaching Film for two reasons:

Firstly, I love films and can watch the same movie countless times and not get bored. And every time I view the movie, I notice details that I'd missed out previously and this never fails to excite me.

Secondly, and more importantly, Film is an elective subject. This means that students get to CHOOSE the subject and most of them do so because they have a keen interest in films. (Unlike other subjects which are core modules where the students don't have a choice.) Hence it's much easier to reach out to them because they are willing learners and some actually enjoy their assignments. Half the battle is already won. And for an educator, that's a crucial plus point.

I know I'll get the chance to teach this subject again, and it really isn't the end of the road. I do feel a little silly getting all worked up over a seemingly miniscule issue. It shouldn't warrant such strong reactions. But this trivial episode made me realise how seriously I take my teaching and affirmed that I am indeed in the right profession.

In two weeks, the school term will end and I will say goodbye to my film class. I decided that I'll leave on a high note so I'm arranging for a "field trip" with my class to catch Inception, the latest contemporary Sci-Fi action-heist film by Christopher Nolan starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen Page and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Of course, it's not just an excursion to watch a movie - they'll be required to submit a film review within 24 hours. :)

Once again, pouring my heart out has been therapeutic and I do feel less tensed-up. Will now busy myself with organising the field trip for my class. Hope they'll enjoy it.

Super Me!

2010-07-21T23:59:00.012+08:00

Had a weird dream just a few nights ago.

I was a Superhero in an alternate reality.

Yup, you read it right the first time.

Only I can't recall what super powers I possessed. And I didn't wear garish costumes or donned colourful spandex tights. It would've been a god-awful sight if I was garbed in such striking attire, especially since I have all the curves at the wrong places!

Anyway, the most vivid fragment I can recall: I was a member of some superhero league (much like Justice League which was made up of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Green Lantern etc.) in an out-of-Singapore modern day setting (e.g. Christopher Nolan's The Dark Knight) and I was the only female in the group.

Strangely enough, I had a young daughter but was a single mum trying to eek out a living (as a teacher?) and keeping my double identity a secret. No details about whether Superhero Me was divorced, widowed or even married (ooooooo, scandalous!)

In a particular scene, I remember kneeling down next to my daughter's bed, stroking her head and watching her while she slept peacefully. Then I stood up and walked out to join the others for a mission. Blurry details followed and the next thing I knew, I was awake and my head was spinning. I immediately tried to go back to sleep so that I could continue dreaming because I was curious to discover how the "story" ended.

Alas, I wasn't able finish the dream so I really have no idea what took place. I did have some impression of combat moments and images of skyline nights. Typical superhero-crime-fighting scenes.

Why this dream even took place, I have absolutely no idea. But I suspect it's got everything to do with my Film Theory and Criticism class. For the past few months, I've been lecturing on topics like film form and narrative structures, stylistic elements like Mise-en-scene, Cinematography, Sound and Editing. And each week, I screen a film that best exemplifies the lecture topic. Naturally, I get to choose the films I like to watch so Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings and Tim Burton's Corpse Bride are definitely in the list.

Plus, I've been pouring over the students' film journals and read their observations, comments and analyses of various movies. A fair number wrote on superhero comic to film adaptions like Ironman, Hulk, Wolverine, Spiderman, Batman etc.

Perhaps that inspired my subconscious realm, jolted my imagination and transported me to another universe where I can *finally* have some power and control over my life.

Oh wait. Maybe THAT's my super power. To magically remove the cankerous influences and force them out of existence. Ha! That explains quite a bit :)

All I can say is that the brain works in mysterious ways. I'll admit that this lucid dream inspired and revitalised me, and awakened a sense of euphoria which had lain dormant in my soul for the last few years.

Now, if only I can go back to sleep and continue where I left off...

Dyslexia Misconceptions | Being Dyslexic

2010-07-19T07:12:00.002+08:00

Let's not make any bones about it.

Xian shows symptoms of Dyslexia, although she's highly functional and is still able to cope with school work, albeit struggling.

Now I've reasons to suspect the Wen may be dyslexic too.

While I've come to accept these facts, my heart is heavy when I hear disparaging remarks made about my girls. Comments that are all uncalled for and uttered by the very people who're supposed to be encouraging them. Ironical that the term "caregivers" should be used when their emotional capacity is in the negative range.

Forgive my harsh and bitter words. I've been bottled up for far too long.

Dyslexia Misconceptions | Being Dyslexic

FIFA World Cup 2010 Finale

2010-07-19T00:38:00.018+08:00

Exactly a week ago, at this very hour, I was getting ready to watch the most important soccer match of the year: the finals of FIFA World Cup.

Spain versus The Netherlands. The winner would etch their names in History as neither country has ever lifted the coveted trophy. The Spaniards were playing in their first ever finals. The Dutch were beaten twice.

Paul, the German Oracle Octopus, had picked Spain to win. I was rooting for Holland. I should have known better than to go up against a the eight-legged physic who's record is now 8 for 8!

Anyway, after watching how horrendously thuggish Team Oranje played in the finals, I reluctantly rejoiced when Spain midfielder Andres Iniseta sealed their fate with a goal in the 116th minute. Admittedly, my heart stopped when he netted the winning goal, and my fervent hopes for the Dutch underdogs were crushed. With 10 men and 3/4 of the players yellow-carded, the chances of equalising to drag out the match to a 2nd extra-time were second to none.

For Holland, it was an tragic case of three times a bridesmaid, never the bride. They were sooooooooooooooooo close to tasting victory but for some unfortunate stroke of luck, their unbeaten track record since 2008 came to a nasty halt when winning a match mattered most. Blame it on the rough tackles and ugly play of the orange-shirted team. Dutch stars Arjen Robben and Robin van Persie even claimed that referee Howard Webb was biased and favoured the European Champs.

Here are some highlights, or should I say, low points, of the match:

Spain played well, passing the ball accurately and bidding their time. They didn't resort to violence and cleverly waited for the opponents to grow restless and make costly mistakes. And the Dutch, desperate to win, fell into their trap.

In the finale, Holland's Wesley Sneijder and Spain's David Villa (who was substituted by Fernando Torres in extra time) were both denied an opportunity to win the Golden Ball and had to settle with 5 goals each. Uruguay striker Diego Forlan, who also scored 5 goals, won Best Player at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

So Spain is now World Champion and they will get to defend their title in 4 years. And after fighting to stay awake for hours on end to catch the matches, I now have World Cup withdrawal symptoms. I'll be anticipating the adrenaline rush again. Brazil 2014 - I'll be waiting!

I'm on Twitter

2010-07-18T23:11:00.007+08:00

I finally caved in and signed up for a twitter account last Friday.

So far, I've tweeted about 20 times and am still trying to figure out why or how people get hooked.

Anyway, for those who're interested in catching up on my irreverent, random thoughts, you can catch them on http://twitter.com/darthycdious

Please Support Project Pebbles

2010-07-10T13:34:00.010+08:00

This year, my Corporate Events Management class is working on "Project Pebbles" and we need support from as many people as possible.

What you need to do is simple: just visit our "Project Pebbles" Facebook page and pledge your support for Mother Earth, declare your love for nature, friends and family - or simply just make a wish or air your views. Photos of the pebbles will be uploaded on our new Facebook page.

Head on over to our new page to find out how to write your messages of love for nature or for more details on our upcoming event!http://www.facebook.com/ProjectPebbles

It's that easy! :)

We also need you to "like" the page and it'll be great if you can help us spread the message too by passing this on to your friends.

A zillion THANKS in advance! :)

Yeah Oranje!

2010-07-02T20:42:00.002+08:00

I can't believe it! The Dutch beat the Brazilians in the quarter finals!

What a shocker! I'd expected the Samba Kings to dazzle with their fancy footwork and slick passing skills. Indeed they lived up to expectations in the first 10 minutes with an opening goal by Robinho and looked set to cruise into victory at the end of the first half.

But this was not to be as the Brazilian' fortunes nosedived when the teams reconvened on the pitch after half time. The Dutch equalised in the 53rd minute (actually it was an own goal by Felipe Melo when he tried to head the ball away from the goal) and Wesley Sneijder's 68th minute header put the Oranje in the lead.

Then came the shocking red card for Felipe Melo as he stamped hard on Arjen Robben's hamstring. And that was the proverbial final nail in the coffin for Brazil. With 10 men and 1 goal down, it would take a miracle for the tournament's favourites to move on to the semi-finals, especially after the Dutch managed to get their act together in the second half.

Although both teams had advanced without losing a single match in the finals, I felt that Brazil's a much stronger team in terms of playing style, skills and technicality. So it was a major disappointment that they were knocked out as I'd expected them to play in the finals.

I've always been a supporter of the underdogs and I'd wanted Holland to score so that the game would be more exciting. I didn't think they'd beat Brazil and it was indeed a pleasant surprise. I guess the bookies and punters are in a rage now.

Here's the official write up on FIFA's page.

Next match: Uruguay vs Ghana, and the winners will meet the Oranje! But tomorrow's fixtures of Germany vs Argentina, and Spain vs Paraguay are more drool-worthy. Thank goodness it's the weekend and I don't have to be up at 5.30 to get Xian ready for school!

New Role Tomorrow

2010-06-30T08:50:00.003+08:00

It's the final day of June. Just one more day before I assume the responsibilities of a Section Head.

While I'm glad that my efforts have been recognised and that I've been given this opportunity to expand my portfolio and take on more responsibilities, I'm mindful of the fact that I am now a mother to 3 growing children and hence am faced with an uphill task of juggling work and home duties. I believe all working mothers encounter the same dilemma of walking on a tight rope, trying to keep focused and delicately balancing between family and career.

When I first took on a managerial role back in 2001, I had no kids. It was easy to concentrate on getting things done because I didn't have to worry about rushing home to check on unfinished homework, breaking up kiddy squabbles or making sure there's breakfast for the kids etc. One of the key reasons why I left my previous workplace was that I was spending too much time in the office and not enough precious moments with my girls. (Wen was about 6 months old when I made the conscious decision to leave the job). I deliberately opted for a slower-pace and practically gave up my career to start from scratch as a lecturer without management responsibilities. And for 4 years, I enjoyed engaging with the youths and concentrated on teaching, imparting knowledge and experience to my students.

From tomorrow onwards, I'll be taking on the additional responsibility of managing a few colleagues and other administrative work. Granted, all this won't be new to me as I previously had about 30 full-time and 10 part-time lecturers under my charge. But it's been 4 years since I last helmed a team of professionals and I was getting used to the "freedom" of not managing people.

Things will definitely change. And I hope I'll be able to live up to expectations.

Sick Leave = Mummy Work

2010-06-25T05:08:00.001+08:00

After 3 continuous days of excruciating headaches, 2 days of severe sore throat where I wasn't able to swallow anything without grimacing in pain, and numerous attempts to self-medicate, I conceded defeat and sought professional medical help.

By the time I decided to see the doctor, it was already 4.30 p.m. and the usual clinics I patronised were closed. But I was really in no shape to drag it out further so I told my boss that I was going back and left the office.

Just before I reached home, I decided to make a quick detour aound the estate to see if there was any clinic opened and was lucky to spot one which closed at 6 p.m. The hub and Xian have both visited the clinic before, and I remember it being quite pricey (almost double of the fees I usually pay). But this time I was really in no shape to contemplate because my throat was inflamed and I couldn't even drink water let alone eat a proper meal.

Yes, I was rather desperate to get cured because as a lecturer, my voice is my key asset and I can't afford to lose it. I was given a dose of antibiotics and medication for my headache, throat and nose (the doctor reckons it's going to start) and he insisted that I take a day off from work to recuperate.

That's a laugh, really. Recuperate? At home? Ha!

For the record, I hate taking medical leave to stay home 'cos it's nearly impossible to take a breather with all the kids clamouring for my attention. And it's very convenient for the usual care-givers to park the responsibility back to me when I"m around without realising that the whole idea of being on medical leave means I'm supposed to rest.

So here I am, typing this entry on Zac my Mac while all 3 kids running berserk. Wei's raiding the cupboard and pulling out bottles of chicken essence, Wen's just asked me to help her pry open the piggy bank and Xian's getting into a tiff with MIL over breakfast.

*Sigh*

Mummy's gotta take on some mummy work now.

World Cup 2010

2010-06-23T07:51:00.001+08:00

The short term break is over and school's in full swing.

And now that we're in the thick of World Cup fever, I'm a little disappointed that I'm no longer able to function with just 3 to 4 hours of sleep so the 2.30am matches will soon be a thing of the past. Age is indeed catching up.

*Sigh*

It's getting progressively tough to stay focused during the day when I've only caught snatches of winks. A few days ago, my head was pounding so badly that I skipped dinner and took an hour's rest immediately after I reached home from work. I sprawled on the mattress and vaguely remember Xian coming in to the room sporadically to "check" on me and asking if I needed water. The throbbing pain didn't go away even after I had a quick shower and ate a few spoonfuls of rice just to fill the stomach.

I did, however, manage to catch the historical match between Portugal and North Korea where the former trounced the latter 7-0. I've never been a huge Cristiano Ronaldo fan because he's a bit of a show-off. But then again, with such chiseled good looks and sexy physique, it's hard to remain grounded. With a headache still gnawing at my brains, I went to bed early and gave the later matches a miss.

Yesterday, my head wasn't so heavy but I could still feel the tension against my temples throughout the entire day. Last night, I watched former world champs Les Blues fall from grace as they lost to host South Africa 2-1. The French were in wretched disarray and it was excruciatingly painful to watch. WIth their recent spade of bad luck, poor form and controversial internal squabbles, and the fact that they were down to 10 men, France was fortunate to salvage a goal to ensure that they didn't leave the tournament without scoring.

So far, the many of the European giants have failed to deliver. Reigning World Cup champs Italy and Euro Champs Spain seem to be struggling and their last few matches have been disappointing to say the least. Tonight, England takes on Slovenia while USA tackles Algeria.

Hopefully, I rid myself of the blasted headaches as I'd really love to watch the matches!

Favouritism

2010-06-12T00:52:00.034+08:00

I've been reviewing my posts and to my utmost horror, realised that 80% of my posts related to family are based on my firstborn, Xian, and this could lead to some false conclusion that she's the only one of my 3 kids whom I care about.

Perhaps as the firstborn, Xian's milestones and experiences impact me the hardest as I'm also following her on these adventures for the first time as a parent. As a result, many of the "first time" journeys are both hers and mine.

That's not to say that Wen and Wei will take the same paths because they are all different in their own ways. So all my experiences with Xian may be completely be reversed, based on each girl's character and development.

Of the 3 girls, Xian's the most good-natured, carefree and mild-tempered. She's a lovely girl; kind and considerate and cares for those around her. Academically, she may not be brilliant as my 8-year-old Little Miss Scatterbrain's got some dyslexic characteristics and needs time to improve on her learning skills.

Xian's rather sporty, active and likes dancing and swimming. She even taught herself how to cycle in a week (and didn't fall much) last year. Xian's also a dog lover and enjoys helping out at Woofy's Corner our pet shop once in a while. A few months back, she started to take a liking to fishing and now she accompanies the hub on his fishing trips to the pond. In order to fuel her interest further, the hub even bought her a new rod and reel as her birthday present!

Xian's "catch" (with some help) - a redtail catfish

Xian's 8th birthday 2010

As for my 5-year-old Wen, she's quite the complete opposite. While Xian's clearly more sociable and outgoing, and takes to people quickly, Wen's reserved, cautious and may appear standoffish at times. But once she's warmed up, she's extremely sweet, friendly and loyal. Her school principal Ms Chua told me last year that Wen's a "serious" girl who didn't smile or respond when she (the principal) greeted her in the mornings. However, when I met Ms Chua recently, she noted a marked improvement in Wen's attitude and said that Wen now smiles cheerfully and says "Good Morning Ms Chua" or "Goodbye Ms Chua". I guess it's because Wen's now more used to the environment after 1 year of studying in the kindergarten.

Wen can't dance as well as her older sister but she likes to sing and makes up her own songs, especially when she's playing on her own in a corner of the room. Wen's pretty quick in picking up new skills and is a fast learner. Unfortunately she doesn't like to do extra work and can be distracted easily, as shared by her Jan & Elly English Teacher Sam. Apparently she doesn't pay attention in class and takes a long time to complete her tasks because she's busy playing with buttons on her jacket or looking at her friends' work to listen to her teacher's instructions. When I spoke to Wen's kindergarten teacher, she affirmed that Wen's pretty quiet in class but she does mix around with her friends. But she's a real chatterbox at home.

I chanced upon this link which talks about parenting and how the birth order of children affects their character development. Based on the article, Wen displays some classic "Middle Child Syndrome" traits i.e. the attention-seeking loner who doesn't understand why she can't be first. She startled me recently with this conversation thread:

Wen: Why is my birthday last? I don't want to be last!
Me: Huh? What do you mean?
Wen: Everyone's celebrated their birthday already!

(Wei's in April, Xian's in May, Wen's in August)

Me: But you can't choose your birthday. Yours is coming soon. Just a few more months.
Wen: But I don't want to wait. I want my birthday to be first!

Sigh. Wen often complains about not being 'first' and dislikes wearing Xian's hand-me-downs. Unlike Xian who's not too bothered about her appearance, and is comfortable in grubby T-shirts and shorts, Wen's quite a vain 'princess' and wants to wear pretty (pink, mostly) dresses most of the time. She has a nasty habit of being an obstinate and overly whiny crybaby, which irritates us to no end. My personal take is that she's upset about being sandwiched in between her sisters and do this to get our attention. She's also extremely sharp and perceptive, and can read into situations quickly.

The way into Wen's heart is, believe it or not, food. She's adventurous with trying out new food and I often have to resort to "bribing" her with food when she misbehaves. Hence, one of my nicknames for her is "meaty" because she's got a great appetite (though she isn't overweight or pudgy) and its a real delight to see her enjoying her meals. :)

Wen, my Little Miss Vain, in Bali

Wen at Woofy's Corner with Cody, Mabel's corgi

Wei is only 2 but she's definitely not a pushover. In fact, she's a tough little nut and won't allow herself to be at disadvantage just because she's the youngest. When the girls squabble, she's usually the culprit who kick off the fight and would terrorise her sisters by biting, scratching, kicking and pulling their hair. Wei can be quite commanding and bosses her sisters around (though I think they give in to humour her). She's quite fearless and even has the audacity to go up against the MIL (who's never had any of her kids or grandkids disobey her).

If you ask me about Wei's most unique behaviour, it would be that she loves fruits and vegetables! Yes, she attacks greenies, sometimes raw, and her favourites are broccoli, cauliflower, string beans, lettuce, grapes, oranges and apples. When we bring the kids out for pizza and spaghetti, I'd order salad for Wei and she'll happily crunch on them!

Wei seems mature for a her age and hardly acts "baby-like", possibly because of the influence from her older sisters. She's fiercely independent and as soon as she mastered the art of grabbing a spoon, started to eat on her own (refusing anybody's assistance) before she turned 2. Wei started walking when she was 12 months, earlier than her sisters who both wobbled about till they were about 14 plus months. A cheeky, demanding firecracker who's fiercely protective of me (she doesn't allow anyone to disturb me, her milk source). B ut at the same time, Wei tends to bully me quite a fair bit too. Perhaps after 3 kids, I'm a little less uptight and fussy about managing them especially since I'm outnumbered.

Wei playing at the park

Wei enjoying her own birthday cake

So there. A quick analysis of my lovely daughters, each unique and special in their own right.

But what about this concept of favouritism? I try, as often as I possibly can, to remain fair and impartial and not to take sides when they have disagreements. I go all out to ensure that each of them get equal treatment although the older two girls sometimes use the "Not fair! Che Che / Mei Mei can do this and I can't" tactic to make me feel guilty.

In the same article about Middle Child Syndrome, I found this paragraph which touched a nerve:

Favoritism

An especially charged topic among parents is favoritism. Favoritism is a word no parent would like to use, even if in most cases it is somewhat inevitable. As a parent, you find yourself drawn to a child who is most like you — traits that you can identify with and deeply empathize with as you experience them yourself.

But, siblings are like hawks when it comes to clues of favoring, and as parents we have endless capacity to love all our children uniquely. So you need to celebrate what you love about each, and absolutely curb yourself from ever saying that one child is more loved. It often helps to remind ourselves that we have endless capacity to love our children uniquely.

Read more: http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/14335112/#ixzz0quhFNQ8g

What more can I say? I'm only human and while I can try my best to ensure I don't practise favouritism, I may not always succeed, depending on the situation. But all I can ascertain is this: I love all my girls dearly and as a mum I'll do everything I possibly can to nurture and provide them with an appropriate home environment so that they'll grow up to be mature, responsible individuals with a goodness in their hearts.

My 3 darlings - Xian, Wen Wei

The girls at Cold Storage Kids Run 2010

My Silver Girl!

2010-06-11T14:21:00.016+08:00

Xian's passed her National Survival Swimming Award (NASSA) Silver Test yesterday!

According to this website, the NASSA is a test which simulates a scenario of a sinking ship loaded with passengers and goods. The objective is to educate and train candidates to possess the knowledge and competence to overcome adversities in a genuine situation.

Pre-requisite:
NASSA Bronze Award (Xian passed this in March 2009)

Attire while undergoing Test:
Male - Long pants, long-sleeve shirt or T-shirt
Female - Dress or slacks, long-sleeved blouse or shirt or T-shirt
Children below 12 years old may use short-sleeve shirt / blouse or pyjamas

Criteria:

Straddle or tuck jump entry from the side of the pool, and swim 100 meters within 4 minutes
Demonstrate ability to "drown-proof" for 1 minute
Tread water using one arm, with one arm at the back of the body for 1 minutes
Immediately after, tread water for 3 minutes using both arms
Undress in water, make float with attire and use it to swim 25 meters using legs only
Swim 200 meters using backstroke, 200 meters using sidestroke, 400 meters using front stroke (breast stroke / freestyle)
During the course of this swim (front stroke), the candidate must execute 2 dives: 1 head first, and 1 leg first. (each dive must swim submerged for at least 5 meters)
Climb out from the deep end of the pool without the use of steps or assistance.

Each successful candidate will receive a collar pin, woven badge and a certificate, which can be collected at the test venue approximately one month after the test.

It's a pity I wasn't able to take more pictures towards the end of Xian's test as my youngest rascal Wei was getting sleepy and fussing away. It was also drizzling and not a good idea to carry Wei and take pictures at the same time. Anyway, here are some photos:

If you ask me, it's really not an easy test. I was initially quite apprehensive about registering her for it because I wasn't sure if she'd be able to swim 100m within 4 minutes. Plus it requires stamina and endurance to complete 800m in various strokes. But her coach, Mr Bakar, clearly believed she was ready so I registered her for the test 2 weeks back.

Yesterday morning, I drove Xian together with Wen, Wei, MIL and FIL to Toa Payoh Swimming Complex. It's where she usually attends her swimming lessons and it's also the test venue. MIL wanted to go along to watch Xian swim and also to give her some moral support.

Midway through the test, Wen, Wei and myself went to the side of the pool to clap, wave and cheer Xian on. Towards the end of the test, poor Xian was clearly worn out and she was the last one out of the pool. But this isn't a test of speed and I'm very proud that Xian completed the required assessment rounds. At least she didn't give up midway through (2 kids did) and stuck it out till the very end.

Xian later confided that she was exhausted but she thought of how she would let us down if she didn't complete the test. But she was energised when she saw her sisters and I running along the side of the pool and calling out to her. I'm sure glad we all went down with her :)

Next stop: GOLD! Xian's definitely not ready to take the gold now as the requirements are much tougher and she's got a long way more before she can beat the clock. No pressure and no rush to complete it as I'd rather she does it in her own time.

Anyhow, I just found out that NASSA will be replaced by a new national water safety programme SwimSafer from 5 July 2010. Hence, I'm not sure what the conversion leveling will be and whether she'll be eligible to take the gold award based on her NASSA silver. I'll leave that to her coach to decide and he'll inform us when she's prepared. :)

Xian in her PJs and all ready for the test
MIL helps to tuck stray hairs into the swimming cap as Wei decides to put on a cap too
Cheeky Wei!
Xian (Cap 3, 3rd from right) taking instructions from the tester
Xian in action
Completed: 1st task of swimming 100m with 4 minutes, waiting for next segment
Treading water - she had to undress underwater, make a float out of her PJ pants and swim back
Wen waiting at the side of the pool to cheer Xian on!

Trade Secrets Revealed

2010-06-06T15:07:00.003+08:00

I'd mentioned a few days back about a new working environment and mentioned I'd reveal it once the officially announcement is made.

My current Course Manager (CM), Mr. D, will be going on a study leave for a year to pursue a Masters degree at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, NUS. The management decided to appoint a new CM in his place and one of our current Section Heads, SK, will be taking over with effect from 1 July 2010.

As a result of these changes, there's a need to fill the position of a Section Head within the department and yes, I'll be taking on these new responsibilities on 1 July 2010.

I think this comes as no surprise to some of my colleagues as they'd already been speculating about succession issues and "who's next" if ever an opportunity crops up.

When I was asked to meet JC, one of the deputy directors, about 2 months back for an informal albeit confidential discussion, nothing was mentioned about my CM going on study leave etc. He'd only asked my opinions about becoming a Section Head and if I'd consider it if offered. Honestly, I didn't think much about it as all the positions were filled and I was quite sure none of the current SHs were relinquishing their responsibilities. I believed it was merely a chat to explore various options and that it won't take place so soon.

After the informal discussion with JC, nothing was mentioned although I'd been asked to submit my accomplishments and detailed resume for consideration. So when I was called into a short meeting 2 weeks back, the bombshells were dropped and I was dumbfounded because I was expecting another "discussion" with my bosses before any decision was made.

Anyway, in 2 weeks' time, I'll have new responsibilities to handle, which includes managing a few colleagues. I've not be given any briefing on my additional duties yet but I believe it'll be within the next few weeks. Wish me luck!