Milk & Diapers

Start of another Journey

2011-08-02T11:37:00.007+08:00

As some of my closest family and friends might know. I recently graduated with a
Diploma in Children Services.
It has been a long 2 years and i am grateful to God for his faithfulness!
We made it!

i thank God that i have been given this opportunity to study and be a mother to Ella, spending every minute she's not in daycare with her, spending every chance we get as a family to go fishing! Best moments ever. Just focusing on creating a life I've always dreamed of.

A few months back My Family came up to Perth and Bless us with a trip to
Margaret River for
Baby Ella's 2nd Birthday!
We had such a beautiful time there :) so blessed!
While we are in the process of getting our permanent residency, we are also looking forwards for the Lers to join us in Perth with a trip up to Margaret River, Dunsborough and of course Darling's most eager to fish at Busselton Jetty these coming weeks!

We have been so incredibly blessed!
thank you JC

2011

2011-03-05T13:15:00.003+08:00

I wonder How you are my friend, I wonder if you know. I'm fine thank You Hello! Hello! Hello!

My dear friends, i have not forgotten this blog of mine, it's just that i have been very busy trying to keep it all together and believe it or not, things have been so rough, sometimes there were days i wasn't quite sure i would survive the day much less the week.

In August last year, Ella came back after a few months recuperating in singapore, tbh i wasn't living at all while she was gone, and of course this blog is dedicated to her, for her to look back and see that she was loved, and while she was gone, i really did not feel like blogging or doing anything much for that matter.

In order to keep Ella by myside, we took on a 1 year lease for a ground floor studio Apt near the city, near work for me and Allan. We bought a Cheap 17 Year old Daihatsu Charade which i named Charlie*. Grandma stayed with us for a while, and finally she returned to Singapore in early Jan. I got a Job at the YMCA, at the end of School term last year, slightly better Pay, benefits and alot more exposure. With so Much Happening you can probably understand why i haven't been talking much.

Well, today is a start and hopefully i will get back to the swing of updating this blog of mine.

oh! 3 more months and my studies will finally be over! Ella is pretty much a toddler Now. She has started DayCare 2 Weeks ago and Loves it, will tell you more . . .

take care.

Coming Back

2010-08-04T11:20:00.004+08:00

Wowee! long time, almost seems like i abandon this humble blog of mine.
For the wonderful friends that must be wondering whats been happening with us.
We were planning to return to Sunny Singapore, but than things took a different direction that sent us on a whirlwind.
It all started when i decided to just test the job market here, after completing my cert IV in children services, i sent in my resume to a OSHC at St Charles Gardnier's Hospital aka Charlies.
There was no chance i could have gotten the job much less a reply, after experiencing a year of unfair opportunities here, but i guess the heavens must have opened because within 3 days i was asked to come in for an interview and within a week, i started the job and love it!
The Husband got a pay rise at work, so we decided that we would stay... to finish my Diploma.

However things started to get really bad for Ella, a month of runny noses, cough and fevers, visit to 4 doctors and standard instruction of Panadol only. Ella started losing alot of weight and she almost stopped eating, that was went alarm bells went off, and my mum decided it was the best thing to fly her home for treatment.

I was slapped with a $400.00 bill, i asked myself how i let it get so out of hand, Severe Bronchitis.
I can tell you leaving her in singapore for the last 2 months with my family while i came back to perth and work was the hardest thing i had to go through, and i tell myself i would never put myself and ella through that again.

tomorrow i will finally see my baby, as she is flying in. Will she remember me? Will she reject me? Dying thoughts...

I do not know how things are going to work out, as daycare here is probably going to kill our income but i guess i would do anything as long as the family stays together...

- In the School libary - supposed to be doing research haha! -
Friends if you don't hear from me, just know you guys are often in my thoughts!

Transition

2010-05-21T19:20:00.004+08:00

Change is the only constant someone once said to me.
I always wonder why my life is full of challenges.
Recently it's been a real struggle with everything mostly because the husband is always away at work, So i have to be sort handle everything at home.

From adjusting Ella to Daycare, to breaking our lease on our previous townhouse, to finding a new house, and co-ordinating my move to randomly asking a bunch of brickies that i didn't know if they had a Ute and would loan me so i could clear what remnants of furniture from the townhouse. It has been really trying, but finally i can breathe. I know God is definately watching over me and he is definitely coming through for me. I really thank the friends that have helped me through this hectic period.

We have moved from gosnells to canning vale till we relocate back to Singapore in October.

I love our new place, wish i downsized earlier, life is really that much simpler.
Mum has gone back to Singapore, and in a way i miss her, her food etc, but am loving the new found independence, just spending time at my friends with Ella., doing my assignments not worrying about what time i have to go home.
I love it. Ella really enjoys spending that time with me as well.
She is at this stage where she kisses me a lot, whenever she feels like it, first thing in the morning. It just tells me my baby angel loves me and i her.

Ella is walking!! this thrills me to no end, because finally i can maybe stop piggy backing her in a sarong while i do house chores. oh well, i will enjoy it while it lasts. My baby girl is growing to be the most charming toddler...

I have to blog more but unfortunately.. i am cramming to complete my cert IV and i promise you folks i will definitely catch up where i left off for sure.

Garage Sale

2010-04-20T19:48:00.007+08:00

Hello People
Sorry that i haven't been on to blog.. we have been busy :(
We have decided to come back to Singapore in October!
I know some of you are happy we have finally decided to come back.. yes we can't wait..

Today was a gorgeous day! We had an absolutely fun garage sale day... we managed to sell everything, it wasn't for a lot of money but we cleared 80% of our things!

I will not be able to blog as frequently because we are down to this one laptop till we get back to Singapore. Ella is growing to be so beautiful and starting to learn how to walk, it's just been the most amazing experience being her mother, 1 year and counting and i still thank the Lord everyday for this wonderful miracle he has given me.

Just some quick updates.. Someone tried to come into our house again for the third time in the year we have been here in perth and yesterday our neighbour's house was broken into! Bad neighbourhood... Do i feel unsafe? Everyday! Are Angels watching over us? Absolutely!

Anyways back to happier thoughts, Ella will be starting Daycare on Tuesday!
More Updates Coming your way!!

It's Ella's Bedtime! Gd nite Folks have a great week ahead!

Clicks at Midnight!

2010-04-16T21:55:00.002+08:00

Life is funny... before you get a baby you tend to have pictures of you and the husband... after the baby comes it's all about her haha! Which is great.. i love these shots taken a few nights ago, when her routine was off and she slept about 6pm.. 2 hours early. She got up at midnight and refuse to go back to sleep. So Cheeky.. So playful! Enjoy the pictures...

"Ella's Puree"

2010-04-15T15:09:00.013+08:00

The introduction to solid foods for Ella has been somewhat a slow progression. Maybe because she was premature, i remembered i started the introduction around 4 - 6 months, it was only at 7 months, did she get better at swallowing. Now even at 13mths, She manages snipped noodles, bits of soft foods like : cheese, meat, bread and soft fruit alright, but she still prefers the good old puree! She gets so fussy if food is chunkier than usual, she won't eat it. She is a classic nibbler.

Thanks to my trusty ol' hand blender, it's so easy to whip up purees for her. I find it is so easy to cook a batch up and freeze them in 75ml portion containers ready to microwave and serve! When i do have the time, i try to make the puree fresh for the day, she has no problem eating the same thing twice a day, whatever leftovers... if there is any will be freeze for another day, thus ending up with a few flavors for the hungry baby!

I know every baby's taste is individual but I would love to share her all time favourite recipe!
This is a really simple recipe, but it tastes so yummy! Ella is absolutely crazy with spinach and loves the taste of beef, so most of my recipes will have these 2 key ingredients in them.

Ingredients:
3-4 tablespoons of mince beef
1/2 a carrot
1 medium size potato
6-7 pieces of pasta
1 teaspoon of mince garlic, you can use fresh if you like, i just love the convenience of the bottled version.
Olive oil for the Pan, you can use garlic flavored Olive oil.
Soya Sauce for taste.

Method:
I dice the potato, carrot into tiny dices and boil them in a saucepan along with the pasta, till soft and cooked.
I drain and retain some of the liquid. Sometimes i boil this in milk, but not for this puree.
I than use the same saucepan, drizzle it with oil and add a dash of mince garlic for flavor, i add the beef mince and once it's almost cooked i add the spinach and the rest of the ingredients and stir till combine. I add a teeny bit of soya sauce for taste.

This is how it looks when its cooked. Simple?

After that just with my hand blender i puree the mixture to the consistency i want. Today, i use my bullet because i love how easy it is to just cap on the container and store the remainder of the puree in the fridge for later.

You can experiment and find something your baby loves or... try out recipes!
There are quite a few good books in the market by Annabel Karmel. From Baby Purees, Finger food for toddlers to delicious recipes for children.Check out this Top 100 Baby Purees: 100 Quick and Easy Meals for a Healthy and Happy Baby
And if you child is having problem with veggies, i totally recommend 2 brilliant books : Deceptively Delicious by Jessica Seinfeld. and also the Sneaky Chef .

Happy Cooking!

Seasons are Changing! Are you prepared for winter?

2010-04-13T20:13:00.044+08:00

We have really experience all four seasons here in Perth!

From the Burning 39degree summer to the Chilly winter. I really am amazed at how beautifully erratic the weather can be.

Sometime back Perth had a freak storm, not sure if you guys read about it or experienced it? Thankfully we were safe in our little townhouse. It just looked like any normal rainy day. We did not experience the fish ball size hail stones, nor the fierce winds that tore patios, the lighting bolts that strike down trees...The only thing we experience was the flickering of lights and the next thing, we experience was a black out. I thought black out right, power will be back soon!

WRONG! power didn't come back to almost the next day. There we were me and mum sitting in the living room disconnected from the world, there and then i exclaimed: " Wow this must be how end of the world feels like!" We are just that much dependant on Power for lights, internet, TV etc.

I am really happy cooler weather is here to stay, because of the changing weather., baby developed Croup. This is the 3rd time she has fallen ill since her birth, the first 2 times were just a very mild cold, that she naturally got over quite quickly with Vicks and Baby Panadol! This 3rd one was bad...

What is Croup?

Croup is a condition that causes an inflammation of the upper airways — the voice box (larynx) and windpipe (trachea). It often leads to a barking cough or hoarseness, especially when a child cries.

Most cases of croup are caused by viruses. Croup is most common — and symptoms are most severe — in children 6 months to 3 years old, but can affect older kids, too. Croup is common in winter months.

Baby is much much better today, she looks like she is finally in the clear. The signs that told me she needed to be seen by the doctor was when she had real trouble breathing one night, thankfully i am now having holidays and there is a good clinic across from where we stay. The doctor prescribe a form of steroid for only a period of 3 days to clear the laryngitis and recommended i buy a vaporizer!

I like his professionalism. After the check-up i went to the nearest pharmacy - where i buy Ella's formula/diapers etc and gave the prescription to the pharmacist. Here the doctor's don't stock medication!! you have to go to any pharmacy to buy, also it is encouraged to dispose of your old/expired medication at any pharmacy... Interesting? I also bought the Vick's Vaporizer... Poor baby had no appetite for that week, but i knew that would happen doctor told me, in most cases baby would only want fluids.

She now absolutely hates it when we try to give her medicine, wipe or suction her nose... she fights to the end, with bukets of tears. Poor baby, but thankfully we got through it!

So i guess it's time to pack away summer outfits to make way for warmer clothing's, boots and woolly feet warmers, thicker blankets, put on the heater and make sure you bring your stroller rain cover when you go outdoors!

I try to have the following in the house at all times!
From Left: Desitin Diaper Cream, Clotrimazole anti-fungal cream *she has a slight fungal infection on her arm - very effective fungus cleared up quite quickly*, Bonjela teething gel *Her top two teeth have started to appear*,Panadol & Nurofen infant drops for fever, Dropper/syringe for administration, thermometer, Chinese oil *Getting Rid of wind, Good for chills*, Vicks baby to soothe nasal and chest congestion

So people winter is coming, Wrap up, Warm up with a hot cup of chocolate and enjoy the season!

Intruder!

2010-04-11T12:10:00.011+08:00

Sorry that it has taken me forever to update, there was just so much that have been going on!

Something happened Thursday morning, on the 8th, as i recount the event i can feel goosebumps all over again. The un-thinkable has happened. We have always knew that we live in a pretty dramatic neighborhood, but would we never have thought that this could happen to us!

I remember lying in bed with Ella asleep next to me, me and the husband *on a really rare night* spent time talking and laughing before I eventually doze off as usual and the hubby stayed up till 1 am.

At 1.45am, i was suddenly woken from my sleep, i am not sure what had stirred me up, was in my innate instinct? or the bad dream that had startled me. In a dreamy state i had opened my eyes and somehow looked out towards the balcony of our room. I thought i heard the blinds shift as i opened my eyes, i saw a crawling motion and sound of something on the balcony and being shortsighted all i saw were shadows and i somehow heard a thud to the ground below us. I jumped straight out of bed with my arms outstretched and Yelled " Baby Dropping!!" it was amazing how fast i reacted.

My brain must have told me that something is wrong, and naturally it was the fear of the baby wandering past the insect screen and crawling out to the balcony when we are asleep. See, we don't have a lock on the fly-screen, most houses come with a grille and lock on it ours was just a sliding screen, the thought of us being on the 2nd floor, it would be quite impossible for anyone to make a climb without any noise.
The husband who at that time despite having ear plugs on, also made a yell after he heard me and switch on the lights. My heart was racing and as i glance to where my baby was sleeping, there she was, sound asleep like an angel.

I started to rationalize what had just happened! i noticed our fly screen was opened all the way and no wind in WA could have done that. I immediately check for my wallet which i have left on my bookshelf near our en suite. It was gone. WTF! I was sure, in my heart someone had been into our room, a haven of rest from the madness of everyday life.

The husband did not believe me! He ran downstairs to search for my wallet, what took like maybe 5-8 minutes i ran out to the balcony and i saw my neighbor's lights on, apparently he had heard my scream and i saw a tall shadow walking past our compound, it was pitch dark and i couldn't see the intruder! I immediately went downstairs to check if anything was missing, and sure enough L's (our housemate) laptop was missing, all the wires were still on the table but the laptop GONE! i just knew for sure, we have had an intruder! i went calmly back upstairs and knocked on L's door and check if he had brought his laptop up. In my heart i already knew what his answer was. I also informed mum about what had happened.

I called '000' , and this, is the first time in my life that i have had to dial an emergency number.
I informed the police of what had happened, they took down my statement on the phone and gave me a case no.
By the time the police had arrived, it was 2am and they scouted the area with dogs, and a few others drove around the neighborhood to check for suspicious people.The night was still, no activity, no one.

I had to put on something decent, while the hubby and mum talked to the police outside our door. The police were using torch-lights and scanning the area where the intruder have jumped off and i tell you it is quite a jump, unless he was extremely dexterous, i have no idea how he managed to climb up and jump down!

Omg! guess what?!
The Police found my wallet and L's web cam on the grass, my only conclusion was that he must have dropped the items on impact.

I have to thank the lord, that he had protected my property, my finances and my family from harm. Truly it was God's Grace. How could that idiot of a thief, gone through to all that trouble only to drop my wallet? It was divine protection and favour of the lord!

I feel bad that because we had to open our balcony sliding door L's laptop is now gone, but it wasn't our fault, that sliding door was our only means of ventilation, L's laptop cannot be switch on without power cable *stupid thief did not have the brains to take it, it's password locked! and it's 3 years old. L was already intending to replace it anyways. Still!
Stupid stupid thief!, i was just glad no one in the household was harmed. Imagine if my wallet was gone, the amount of inconvenience i had to go through to report every card and call every bank in Australia and Singapore. Phew!! Thank God.
We promised L to get very cheap state-of -the art computer parts in singapore, the husband can easily put it together for him, i mean it is probably a blessing in disguise. the new would never come, if the old never goes lol.

Oh and Yes. . .
Forensics came the next day and found nothing. . . was really hoping there were prints!
To the thief that came and robbed us of our peace. i have one thing to say to you! "You will not get away! you will make a mistake one day and they will catch you!", i still cannot fathom how we could sleep with an intruder in the house? Did my Carpeted floors insulate the noise?

I think it's really sad that a beautiful country like Australia, has such a high crime rate! It is because of the lenient laws here? I read somewhere Perth has the highest statistics of burglaries!

The police commented that the current situation is very bad, and on the night of the incident, there were 5 other break-ins in gosnells, our suburb. The forensics officer says: " Situation is bad, we are flat-out!, it's just out of hand at the moment."Crime is on a Rampage. It is sad that people cannot feel safe living here, shops everywhere have to declare " no cash on premise" , there are constant bag checks- everyone feels like a criminal.
You avoid going out once it gets dark. sigh. Why must people live like that?

Do i want Ella to grow up in such a country? *thinks*
majority of children here grow up with no basic respect for people and their property, children have early awareness of sex and drugs.
Will constant guidance, love and watchfulness over her, influence her differently? I am not sure. It's a question i ask myself all the time Don't get me wrong, i love it here, despite the crime and racism. Having been brought up in Singapore, i really take safety for granted.

We chose to rent from a neighbor hood that is notorious for crime and dramas, but it is so convenient with the train station just across the road. For the last 10 mths life has been very peaceful and we must have somehow gotten complacent.

I can tell you i am not the same after the incident has happened, imagine, i have allowed someone to come into my home by leaving my balcony sliding door opened. I have allowed that bastard to watch us sleep, to open my bedroom door, go down the steps , snoop around my house! while we were all in our beds, such an invasion of privacy! I have never felt so vulnerable.

I admit i have been paranoid the last few days, i find myself checking the doors and balcony, but i don't want to live like that. I know there are angels constantly watching over us, i know i will get over this in time. Whether we will stay in this country or go back to Singapore, Only God knows.

Please be safe.

Ezraella's First Birthday Bash

2010-04-03T23:49:00.002+08:00

It’s a Celebration!

We celebrated our baby girl's first birthday! We threw a party for our love ones and friends that are residing in Perth. Wish with all my heart that family and friends back in Singapore, could have been with us! Ezraella is such a joy and our heart's delight, for truly when we asked for a daughter, we were given a princess!

It didn't really take me long to decide what sort of party i wanted. I previously written a post about my 2 week prep for the party. You can read all about it here!
I love all things whimsical. Butterflies! It just seems really meaningful, especially as Ella is entering into a new phase of her life.

Baby: I wish you Jesus! i wish you a beautiful life, one full of love, wonders and simple surprises.

Dear lord, Thank you for an amazing year, a year of such providence. I can never thank you enough for your amazing grace! I pray that you will teach me to be the best mum i could ever be to her. I pray a blessing of protection on her, that you will watch over her every day and that you will be with her. I pray that Ella , will grow up strong and healthy with an undying love for you. I ask that you will give her wisdom and understanding even at her age. Thank you for giving me this precious miracle. Amen.

It was a lot of hard work, thank god for the people in my life, the people that dote on Ella, we really worked hard preparing for the party, and we just dance right through the party. Finally the chance has come for me to make cupcakes for Ella. I use to make cupcakes for friends and family and always wondered when a day will come that i can make it for her.
The Chocolate butterfly wings were suppose to be white, but the night before the white chocolate just wouldn't melt properly, anyways...the cupcakes still look pretty lovely... what do you think?

The family that i would be ever so grateful for, thank you guys for working so hard and for all the blessings that you have given to Ella! Mum thank you for preparing your legendary laksa and preparing the sandwich fillings and making sure all the bits and bobs were in place. thank you yee yee for your love and generosity each time, you never fail to amaze me with your cooking, thank you for the beautiful nonya kueh and the crispy chicken wings. Thank you Hannah for the ever so dainty wantons and your delicious honey dew sago dessert. Thank you Limo for creating such decadent desserts and the crispy spring rolls! And last but not least thank you darling, for helping out whenever you can, cleaning up the house and sponsoring the entire event!

The party guests! Thank you all for coming!

Ella had such a wonderful time playing with her friends. It was such a joy seeing her happy and enjoying the day!

These were the party favours for the party!Thank you Hannah for helping me and just being with me throughout the party!
I couldn't have done it without you!

The night ended, with my cousins coming over and we opening up Ella's presents. She had such wonderful gifts from fisher price toys, a pretty growth chart, beautiful clothing from esprit & "cotton on" to a few Birkenstock sandals... wow baby you are so bless!

Who knows maybe next year we may celebrate Ella's 2nd Birthday in Singapore!

We had a rainbow day!

2010-04-01T15:31:00.008+08:00

Feels good to wake up and have an absolutely agenda-less day!
First thing i did strap baby into the stroller, together with mum head off to Good Sammy's!
I went straight to book section, because baby has been very interested in books lately, however i grabbed 2 toys off the toy shelf, just as i walk pass

Check out my $9.20 loot for the day!

A brand New, still in the box fisher price piano mat! Only $4.00

A handful of age-appropriate books, a few counting ones, poems and nursery rhymes The books were 10 cents - 25 cents each. All in mint condition. Omg! i love this a Jeep Steering wheel, excellent condition!! only for a dollar. They look lifeless lying with the other bits and bobs in the shop but, i took them home and gave them a new lease of life! Can't wait to read to Ella tonight.

I cleared out the bottom of my bookshelf in the bedroom, so that when bubba wakes up in the morning she can go there and play and read, before me and daddy wakes up. I have caught her on several mornings reading her Disney count to ten book, or just playing with her rattles.

I am so addicted to 2nd hand shops like you won't believe. . . anyways after that bubba fell asleep in her new stroller and me and mum went to hungry jacks for breakfast, than we went to coles and bought the rest of whatever we needed for the Saturday bash!
I couldn't help but buy another toy and a pair of sneakers for Ella. . .

Blessed Birthday Bubba!

I had on my mind to get this for bubba, having seen it be a hot favourite among the kids at work. It really encourages developing Motor skills in children, baby learns to identify/sort shape and colors! It's a brilliant basic first blocks for baby. Appropriate for 6m+ onwards.

With a stroller full of things, and arms full of bags. . . we walked back home, once home i gave the books and toys a good wipe down with hot/soapy water.

Oh and we had a bit of time in the afternoon as well to do some hand/fingerpainting!
this was Ella's first time doing it and i know the lot of you may say.. "She's too young!". I tell you it's possible just need alot of wet wipes and supervision! be sure to get non-toxic paint! Really affordable at your local $2.00 shops. I also got glossy card paper, so that paint just wipes off easily with a wet wipe and baby can do this repeatedly for fun! Keep the final artwork. . . laminate it and as the years go by, you have some pretty nice things to show your child.

Oh and please have the table covered with plastic and a Apron for your child, it makes clean up that much easier!

Ella's very first craft session! Hand/Finger painting.

The finish artwork! Hmm must remember to get this laminated!

Now it's time for me to take a shower, and get ready to do more shopping tonight . . . still a few more things to get for the party, cos tomorrow is Easter and the shops here are Closed!

Brand New Stroller

2010-03-31T21:41:00.010+08:00

Ella is turning One this coming Saturday! Yes, my little girl is growing up!
Am very excited! We will be throwing a " butterfly theme party" for the 30 people that have promised to come. It was no laughing matter when i realized last week, that it was this Saturday!

So here goes my:
My Stress-free 2 week party Planning guide:
Day One
Brainstorm the theme, the guest list, food list, decorations and party favours.
Day two – seven
Send Invites, face book, text guests and RSVP guests on the spot!
Get shopping done for decorations, party ware and party favors
complete party favors!
Enlist Help for the party.
Day seven – thirteen
Get shopping for food/drinks done
Complete Birthday Cake
Clean up house and set up buffet table
Blow up pool in yard, and get toys out for Children to play, set up Wii!
Actual day
Prepare food
Put up decorations
Enjoy the party!

The Baby received a rather early birthday present from Grandma, and Grand aunt!
A brand New Stroller, it's nothing fancy like my zapp, omg! zaap is terrible! was a mistake buying it. I just hate the fact that it is a single position only type stroller, i think ella might only get to enjoy it when she is 4 and not needing any naps!
I love the new stroller, because it has a snack tray/drink holder for baby, secures baby better in the stroller too! Huge shopping basket, with back pouch for essentials, 2 drink holders at the handle bar for mummy/daddy or grandma. Light weight and compact, as Ella is petite it fits her perfectly! I am so happy!

Thank You Por Por! and Lao Yi Poh, I love my stroller!

Baby Updates

Updates on Ella's
Physical Development:
Two Front teeth have sprouted, and bottom two are fully grown!
Baby is losing the chubbiness that i have grown so fond of
Baby has good gross motor skills as she stands for long periods un-supported, like today, mum said she was standing! watching telly!
Can climb down from Sofa. - Smart!
She can groove, solid rhythm - i think she has what it takes to be a drummer, must ask Xiao Gu teach her. She was grooving to the sounds of the spoon against the saucepan, when grandma was mixing something at the stove.
Social Development:
She interacts very well with everyone! Crys for me all the time tho.
She demonstrates affection very well. She knows how to express herself when she is scared of something, like when we opened an umbrella in front of her for the first time, it was hilarious!
Whenever i scold her for being naughty she claps her hands, - it's very amusing because she claps her hands every time we say " clever girl"
I say "No" she will shake her head left and right, smack lips like a fish - i taught her that ha ha
Hello! - raise hand to her ear, like speaking on the phone.
She has thrown her first tantrum, my goodness first time i have seen her chuck a fit!
She can speak a few words like:
Mummy/mama - she knows the difference between me and grandma
Milk Milk/baby/bear bear
- can repeat after you if words are simple enough.

Fine motor development:
Can help herself with finger foods now, very good at picking up things to eat!
She can undress herself, take off her night pants
When i sing twinkle twinkle little stars, she would do the actions for the songs!

Anyways, i believe lots of interaction with baby will allow baby to develop positively - Reading books and singing songs. you know me i am constantly singing! - Oh and do you know she hums with me sometimes at bedtime.

* wanna add her videos somewhere on this blog... Look out for it!*

I am free!

2010-03-30T18:35:00.010+08:00

There is a very good reason why i have not been updating this blog, that is because i have been rushing to complete work placement and my assignments and folks i am glad to say that i have completed with pride my Cert III in Children Services

I have received excellent feedback from supervisory staff in all rooms that i have worked in. I know the husband works hard to put me through this course, and i know i have not let him down. Most importantly i know i have been true to the one above, that is watching and guiding me! So Yes, today was my last day. . . and i am very happy because after next week i will have 2 week holiday before i start with out of school care cert IV.

Group Collage that i did with the Children in celebration of Easter this coming Sunday!

Driving up to Port Kennedy

2010-03-21T12:57:00.028+08:00

We had a wonderful weekend when Jennat came up to Perth to spend the weekend, celebrating her God's Son 2nd Birthday.

I was shocked by the amount of diapers and baby cereal that she brought up for Ella, She also bought Ella 2 beautiful Sandals from Birkenstock! *Surreal*

We went to freo on Friday for lunch at little Creatures. . . we than brought J to Freo Market and Perth City for shopping.

Me, ella, mum, Bon & family and Jen

Baby Posing for me!

Pretty Ella, I like your Pink Rose, Can i have a Kiss please?

On Saturday, we drove up to Port Kennedy... it was a gorgeous drive...the roads look like it would never end, look to your far right and it was just just miles of land. We saw the country. the orchards and farms. The scenery just takes your breath away. I could get use to it! GPRS- genius thanks Sam!

After driving for 50km we approached a developed Clearing in the middle of nothing. Beautiful 2/3 Storey bungalows near the sea. This was where B and her family lives! It was a splendid party with good Eurasian food and delicious lamb roast. Thank you so much for inviting us over!

Happy Birthday Trystan!

Jen, thank you for blessing us so abundantly... after what must be 4 years of not seeing ya, you look as beautiful as always & i Still feel the love. I hope dreams do come true for you!

Afternoon tea at the tranby!

2010-02-23T19:34:00.008+08:00

We had a wonderful day today, i brought mum for english tea, at peninsular gardens by the tranby house. I chanced upon this place, while working one day. I told myself that i have to bring mum there one day, and i am glad i finally did!

We ordered the peninsular and sweet tea set! while i found it rather too sweet for my taste buds, mum really enjoyed the scones served with cream and jam!

If you are a person, who like the finer things in life, you will enjoy their simple menu, the tea garden has such an alluring setting with the river as it's backdrop, it is hard to forget that such a beautiful place exists.

Ella Illustrated

2010-02-22T22:43:00.007+08:00

The thing about my husband is he does the most amazing illustrations...
Guess what he did when me and baby were away in Singapore...

we have decided to do cut-outs for all our love ones! More to update.

Singapore Day 14

2010-02-13T22:40:00.003+08:00

Oh wow! tomorrow is valentine's day... *ponders* should i get the husband a valentines gift?
what should i get?

This trip to singapore was a very fruitful one, it solved alot of my problems...
and it also made me cherish my family and close friends alot more.

today we went to some thai place at white sands for lunch...
i treated the family to thai food, just a small guesture to thank them for putting me up so fabulously in the past 2 weeks...

we had
sweet sour squid
black pepper beef
crab meat omelette
chilli kangkong
seafood soup
green chicken curry

than of course i went to change money for the trip back and tampines mall, and shopped a little at watsons, to stock up on somethings to bring back to perth.

The in laws came for dinner and we had mum's tom yum steamboat!... this one can eat for a few days and the more you eat the shioker you feel!

i will miss singapore, but also can't wait to get back to perth... i miss the husband dearly..

Singapore Day 10, 11, 12, 13

2010-02-13T00:23:00.011+08:00

Oh dear! enjoying so much, that i am finding it hard to keep up with the details...you know what, the food half the time was so good, i never take pictures!!
*slaps forehead* i try lar, but sometimes forget, than after finish eating.. alamak.. forget to take photos...

Baby is really enjoying this trip, seems to be really happy..
by the way her bottom teeth has start to show!
She is also eating solid foods quite well now..

Shots taken of Ella Mucking around...

anyways back to the eventful week...
Tuesday
Did nothing the whole day except take care of ella, so that mum can prepare reunion dinner...
- Tom Yum Steam boat with mum's famous chilli!

This is in my humble opinion THE BEST tom yum steamboat in the world! All you people who have had a taste of it, Would Agree.

We were blessed with Huge prawns than accompanied the assortment of meat, golden mushroom, veggies and quail's eggs... the sweet potato vermicelli was love at first bite!
Invited Shannon over, she brought over lovely love strawberry jelly cheese tarts
Had my cousin Diana and Zl over as well, followed by durian for dessert.

Baby fell in love with Durian for the first time!

Wednesday
whole day out with baby!
thankfully because of S i was able to visit Laura and adorable Baby Chase!

Baby Chase so adorable! I am so glad i managed to meet up with you Laura... Hey girl you know what you are a great mom, because you love Chase so much that you are doing all you can to make sure he grows, and babe can see he is well taken care of ! You know what.. time to start taking care of yourself! Make sure you rest well ya :) *alamak ella showing off her tummy* she is such a octopus i tell you!

after that S dropped us at Wx Godma's house... cos Ella left her *smelly pillow* there lar!
man I'm gonna miss the lers!
after that i took a cab to the singapore flyer and had the most amazing BUTTER CRABS, Coffee spare ribs and tofu with fried buns.. at seafood paradise... compliments of roy - so happy for him and Jas! oh btw the crabs are to die for!!
we ended up having gelato for dessert as i waited for my ride home... *thank you Shireen* if not for you i really don't know i could get around, without incurring a huge taxi bill..

I am getting fat!!!! No more Food Please!

Thursday
Issac came and pick me up at 10am... we went to the In-laws to fix the com... wah lau eh.. the bloody com just won't work... it won't start!! we went sim-lim.. thank God for Dan - charge me 30.00 to fix the power supply, went to Kichn - concept Cafe opened by a friend to have lunch..
i had Pasta with chilli crab sauce, chix cutlet and lychee ice blended it was surprisingly really good! we went back to the in-laws the stupid com still won't freakin' work la!?!?! so issac decided to bring it back home and re-installed i got to see his leopard - gorgeous birman! Cannot find Win XP disc!! sianz.. so took mrt home.. tabao some roast pork, char siew and roast duck from the in laws.

these were shots taken in the MRT, Ella was flirting with a geeky young boy can! sigh.. making daddy worried, so young already so ... cheeky.. *perfect 10 month mugshots!*

* off topic * baby sudden intake of porridge was very good! i did a pork, spinach congee...
Day 12 and 13 she had very good appetite for it, she is normally such a small eater.. *very random hor i know*
i have to make it a point to pack my things tomorrow - shitload of things to bring back perth

Friday

Met Shannon at Bras Basah, did a little shopping for darling's tools. Shannon treated me to Sushi Tei we had : Dragon Roll, Sashimi, Grilled cuttlefish, Scallops, chawamushi and soft shell crab handroll! After that we walk walk... and i bought myself a pretty pouch... i love it! Had a really great time with Shannon.

After that i took the Mrt to My in-laws for the yearly seafood steamboat.. My father in law only buys the best and only the best...Savor the pictures man!

I don't really know of anyone besides my father in law that buys the best of the best seafood every Chinese New Year...i must admit... i do look forward to going there just to indulge in the Codfish, Abalone, Pacific clams and huge Ankara prawns!!... By the way that is Sah Yee carrying baby, Uncle David and Dad carrying the plate of Shark's Fin! yes shark's fin *faints*

Can see my Mother in law very sayang baby girl, buy toy and buy baby snacks.. give angbao etc... tats why i die die also must bring baby go see the in laws .. i cannot rob them, the joy of seeing her grow...the inlaws really bless us with alot of goodies...so so bless!!

when will this food fiesta end?? *rubs hands over tummy*

Singapore Day 9

2010-02-09T00:14:00.005+08:00

Monday
Did absolutely nothin much except chill at home...
had left over chicken curry and fried rice
later in the night went Shopping at Giant with Mum and S
We shopped for ingredients for reunion dinner- steamboat!
Bought more baby things and some food products to bring back Perth...
Had Roast duck with rice and went home!

Singapore Day 7 & 8

2010-02-08T15:20:00.028+08:00

As much as i am lovin it here in singapore
i am looking forward to going back to perth, miss the husband alot...
Jai & jo bought me a tix back on the 15th midnight
than they will be coming back with mum on the 16th~!

Saturday
anyways back to Day 7
woke up early and packed my diaper bag, at the moment i am using a chic leatherish purple bag, with multiple compartments - prefect bag to pack all of baby things! given by mum..
i totally love it. I packed enough formula for 2 days

S sent me to Cindy's place to visit baby Chloe.. thank God for such sweet friends...
Baby was so good with Dennis and Cindy!
we had a great time catching up...baby had a nice play with Chloe. . .
they even gave baby a thermal feeding bowl in advance for baby's birthday!

Me, Cindy & Ella

We had Kuay Chup/Carrot Cake/Hokkien Mee
Chee kuei/Cuttlefish Kang Kong/Sugar Cane

Ella reached out to Dennis to Carry! See she sayang him!

Baby playing with Chloe's toy while i was feeding her cereal. I love *SUCTION TOYS!*

I tell you Ikea Baby High chairs are the best!

Baby had oat. prune cereal by Nestle for lunch! - she really like this!
Cindy also had these organic rice snacks, ella like!

after lunch i made my way to the lers!
The Wonderful Godparents! and Kor Kor Drayden
I miss Drayden boy! You know what the minute i reach... Wx just showered baby with gift after gift! overwhelmed la...

Thank you God ma for the beautiful clothes, bag and shoes I love the Gap undies *How cute!*

Favorite Shot of me and the baby~!

Ella posing for God Pa to take her photo . . .

we chilled for abit and had dinner - Wx makes the best stir-fry beef, will make sure i try to bring wagyu back for her the next time i am back!
we had snow crab legs, salad and cheese, bread fondue! we wack i think 4 packets of it! at $17.00+ a pop and almost close to $50.00 for the snow crab, man it was pure indulgence...
it was so simple yet so satisfying, and i really enjoyed the company as usual, Dennis is his super funnie self! Baby had Wx's special Cereal, gave me a box some more to bring back to Perth...

After dinner, we took the tots down for a walk, to play with bubbles - the condo facade, by the poolside looks so freakin sexy lar!

Baby had a great time, playing with kor kor Drayden too!. You will not believe how generous this boy is with his toys *his like his mummy* and he was so sweet with ella, but quite jealous went Wx carry her! I still remember him walking into his room and seeing ella and saying"Mei Mei! Mei Mei!" your heart can melt!

Like mother , Like Son lar haha!

You know why i am so bless to have wx as a friend... because of all the mummy advice, giving me her time and even blessing ella so abundantly! truly i thank God... for her... Yes i know i am starting to "Nag" but i don't know how else to express my appreciation!

WX remember us 2 sitting at the table, with the wind in our hair, and not a care in the world, babies asleep, drinking sake and snacking!...just chilling and talking.. man so enjoy lar!
If i do come back to Singapore . . . i know what i would be looking forward too...
i really Cherish!, cos i could never do this in Perth! As much as i could stay up all night with her, i was really tired, from the lack of sleep...

Sunday came earlier in the morning
I opened my eyes to Wx staring at me ha ha.. i had Ella sleeping in my arms with me sitting up.. i must have fallen asleep, i remembered it was a rough night, maybe unfamiliar surroundings, Ella was just waking up half the time, i think i was so tired by the 3rd night feed, i forgot to put formula in the water *shakes head* ...

anyways.. Wx so graciously let me go back to sleep an hour or so , while she and God pa took care of the tots.. when i woke up, the babies had a good breakfast, of cheese/ yogurt and cake..
throughout this whole time GOD PA was the official photographer!

We left to orchard road, my goodness i could hardly remember leaving it like it was and coming back to it with such modernity... we went to 313 and a stunning Food Republic greeted us at the top floor! I had yong tau foo... and we even used the new parents room! wow the parent's room is nice:) Baby pooped just at the right time, just so i can use it haha!

Wx putting on her own clip on baby's hair, thought we lost the clip for sure, ended up in her diapers.. Don't know how that happened.

After that we went to Centrepoint and shopped alittle at Isetan, i bought Nuk bottles, Pacifiers for 20% off. and than we went to cold storage, i got alot of different snacks for baby!.. Wx signed our shopping... and i want to return money for the stuff that was mine, but Wx haven't tell me how much i owe her... ?!?!
Boxes!! of Baby Bites
Graduates Banana rice snack
Heinz biscotti / apple flavour biscuits
The Oat/prune Nestle Cereal
Pigeon - spinach baby biscuits
and oh Drayden like Baby Bites! i knew it, kudos to Wang Wang for creating such an affordable product, 2.80 a box :)

we got back to wx's and brought the tots down to swim, i love the playground in the pool.. super nice * i know i am praising sky high about this weekend's stay with wx, only because Wx totally spolit me and the baby!!

These shots are so priceless!, i will miss you God ma. . .

Happiness is!

i love this shot, thank you Dennis for helping us capture the moment!

After the swim, we started packing, Wx as usual generously help me packed the baby stuff and all her wonderful gifts... Tons of gorgeous clothes, shame the burberrys could not fit the baby! she also got me this re-usable milk bottle with disposable liners - by playtex! how cool is that!!

Plus i wasn't expecting this but an ang bao for ella... *feel quite bad that i did not prepare an ang bao for drayden*

Wx, I can never out give... or out love you... and i just thank God so much for the friendship that we have...

anyways i left Wx's place belly satisfied with her porkbelly kimchi fried rice, and in my heart knowing it will be too long!! before i meet her, dennis and drayden boy again...

it's like when i eventually come back to singapore, i can see our 2 babies, playing together, eating together, going to play-dates and enrichment thingys together... having outings/trips abroad... ella growing close to drayden Kor kor, he protecting her like her big brother... I mean i can see us... really being there for each other... and it such a warm thought.. i really wish for this 2 years to go pass quickly!! who knows i might be back earlier than expected!

alamak back to reality, the in laws came to pick me up for the Khoo's Yearly Reunion!
First time darling not with me for the CNY feast...
Yu Sheng
Sharks Fin
Buddah jump over the wall
Crispy Chicken
Cereal Prawn
Steam kim bak lor
Asparagus with Scallops
Fried rice
Sago dessert
Can see my Mil really fang bu Xia ella... but what to do...

Father in law with baby at the playground while we waited for dinner to start!

After dinner...
mum and S came to pick us up - went to swensens for ice-cream with Jo and Jai..
what a lovely end to the most amazing weekend of this trip..
Being at Wx's was really the highlight of my trip.

SIngapore Day 6

2010-02-08T14:07:00.007+08:00

Prelude to the weekend.
Met Jarbor at White Sands for lunch
She treated me to lobster 1 for 1 at 28.80 ++ it was good value
i love the Roe in the lobster. . .

Can't remember when was the last time i actually had lobster ?

i treated her to frozun yougurt!
it was one of those you design, you weigh and than you pay type. Baby couldn't get enough of this! i will be sure to freeze yougurt for baby when we get back to perth!

the shop assistant did not allow me to take the picture, but i still went ahead and took it from the outside... lol... *baby i know for sure you gona miss the banana flavored FROZEN yogurt!* never mind next time go back Singapore.. mummy will buy for you again lol.

we spend the whole day shopping would ya believe it...
Jarbor made baby choose a teether, and no matter how we got baby to consider different choices, Ella would only pick the same panda teether...

Not the prettiest teether, but baby chose it ... thank you jarbor for being so thoughtful !

i was glad i did not overbuy on the NUK stuff when we were at kiddy palace because the next day when i went out with WX Godma isetan was having 20%!
Love the new Wide Neck 150ml Bottle!

- Shireen pick me up - so thankful for having someone like her in my life!
went home and had the most amazing home cooked dinner with family..
what could be better?

Mum's cooking is the best!

tau yu te Bak - soya sauce pork belly
Pork Soup
Chicken Curry
Butter prawns

I love family dinners, you feel the love, from the person who cooks it .. *mummy!*, the laughter all round the table and the smiles of enjoyment :)

the moment is irreplaceable...

Singapore Day 4/5

2010-02-05T22:34:00.010+08:00

Day 4
Wednesday
was uneventful - mum heated up leftovers
i chilled at home...
nothin much happened...

Day 5
Thursday
had a good lunch at Koufu with family for lunch.
chicken rice with all the frills

Iphone went bersek - realise i did not have keyboard function for my email!
so my elder brother went to reformat my Iphone... - hell, i had to re-organise my contacts!!
it was pure madness...

But because i went out with S for the day - i manage to get it done by the time we went home.i followed S on her appointment rounds...

tabao myself economical rice and mee hoon kuei for my mum
met joel and jaime and we went to bark Cafe for Chicken Wings and drinks

i thank God for friends and when shit happens you frikin' know who are your true friends.
I have many friends, but only a handful that matter to me.

Wenxian you will always be buddy and what *may come* i know besides the husband i will grow old with you! Shannon, there is nothing that can express this gratitude. You are a true friend, and thank you for helping me in this time of need.

I thank God for my family and friends that have come together to show us much love, give us much encouragement and advice for the future and much blessings..

I realised that generosity cannot be faked. I really do not have a tolerance for those that try so hard to be generous, when their not! Normally you would find traits of Envy, Jealousy and Selfishness - a tinge of meanness in their personality too... and it's disappointing!

Let me say this: i am not a fuckin charity case, and i don't need you to make me feel like shit, why give, and than i have to take your attitude. it's so not cool man... I feel sorry for you!
Why is life not going right for you?

Please if you want to give, please spare me the bloody sarcasm.

Singapore Day 3

2010-02-03T12:21:00.013+08:00

Tuesday

Met Wx for lunch yesterday, nice of S to sent me there

En was closed! lar so we went to the other Japanese eatery across the street!

We had the following during the buffet

Platter after Platter of Sashimi

Yakitori - chicken skin, Liver and Heart

Tempura Moriwase

Chawamushi -

Pork Belly kimchi

Yakiniku - Beef

Soft shell crab handrolls

california maki's

Sprites!!!!

Mmmh so heavenly :)

after that Wx treated me to Mani + Pedi and Holland V...

I really thank God that he has given such a good friend like Wx because she is someone, who i can count on, share my woes with, and she will not judge me!

we than went to our favourite bag boutique

and took a shot for good times!

Lu Lu... i will miss you!

we than proceeded to Plaza Sing Daiso and ended our shopping at mothercare, i was there to check on the Mini snack Pod, that Yummy mummy was raving about...

Decided not to get it, because as much as i love it's concept, i not a fan of green

Can make pink or not?

We called it a night not before we made plans for me & baby to have a stay over at her place on saturday :)

My plans for the weekend quite scary...

Makan with Cindy for lunch, 4pm head to Wx's place, stay the night and swimming for the tots than in-laws coming to fetch us to Allan's Dua Gu's yearly feast! o.0 this time i will be there alone with baby, i pray everything will go smoothly!

So anyways back to Day 3
i got to Pasir Ris! i will never take the wait time and travel time on MRT for granted ever again.. i mean i guess transperth is pretty good considering how massive the state is, and i do miss the buses in perth...only cause The buses in Perth slants to a side, ramp comes down for people with strollers and those that are on wheelchairs.. In Singapore - i don't think they give a Hoot! i guess people just take cab lor haha!

S came to pick me up, we went to pet farm to tabao Hokkien Mee back while we did that we sat there to chill for abit and ordered a drink...

After much discussion about my plans, i felt like my head was going to explode!

we headed back... nothing much eventful happened, slept pretty late.. that's why i am taking it easy today hur hur!

oh where was baby in all of this? mum was taking very good care of her for me! so that i can enjoy the day out... and she even packed my suitcase for me, when i got home.. It was Sweet!

Singapore Day 2

2010-02-02T01:10:00.015+08:00

Monday
It was mainly just shopping and eating! i highly suspect it will be like that till i go back Perth *roars with laughter*
S called in Sick for work, So we went out! Haha
We went to White Sands for lunch, we had Japanese! The sashimi was to die for :)
I just took a few seconds to savor the swordfish at first bite, it was pure heaven for me...
Baby loved the chawamushi and fried tofu!

We than went to Watsons and i stock up on personal items, like you won't believe how expensive it is in Perth! Bought Bubble tea from Cup walker and Old Chang Kee fried Sotong! Yum!
We also did quite abit of shopping before heading for home...

Kor came back and treated us to the most delish
Peranankan Fare at siglap... for dinner!
it was perfect

Thank you Kor Kor it was Yums!

I would always have an appetite for :
Ayam Buah Keluak
Udang Masak Lemak Nenas - Prawn Nanas
Otak!
Nonya Chap Chai
Bakwan Keptiting
we didn't order Babi Pongteh, because mum makes the best and nothing really comes close to it, so we never normally order it when we eat out...
We were all critics in our own rights when it comes to peranakan food! Especially mum!
Mum: *uh the sambal balachan not nice, i don't like it!* *lol* i didnt think it was that bad honestly...
Kor prefered a slightly more bitter buah keluak but i thought the meaty sweet version was perfect!

After dinner, we had!
Mao San Durain lor for dessert!! at 16.00 a kilo it was cut throat! i still prefer D24, i like slightly bitter, liquorish Durian, apparently that is not good quality to the lao jiaos!
due to end of season or something Mao San wasn't like the best, but was good enough to end the night on a sweet liquorish note!
The puppies had the leftovers can :) Good life i say!

S and i been taking bubbles down for a walk at 11.30 each night and before the night was really really over . . . Baby had a play with the puppies! with everyone in the room... was really nice to see her so happy :)

By the way the last 2 days in Singapore, Ella like quite attached to my mum, so much so when She walks out of sight! she starts to fuss, reach out with her hands and even cry!
I am bewildered cos that is normally what happens to me in perth, i guess she is making it really easy for me if eventually i have to leave her with mum, when mum returns to Singapore during school term...* Not sure if that will happen, sigh guess will cross the bridge when i come to it!*

anyways am so bless to be with family again. There is so much love! its so great to be back...
Will be having a girlie day out with Wx tomorrow - Possibly either our favourite En! @ BT timah or the Jap eatery across the street! More to update!!

Babe am wishing you were here.. love ya very much! sweet dreams!

Singapore Day 1

2010-02-02T00:48:00.018+08:00

Sunday

We touched down at 5.35am,

as i went thru' immigration, because i had baby in tow -i received Priority Processing! Shiok can back to being a *First Class Citizen* zzzZZzz ...

waited for our luggage to appear on the belt.
This time thank God they handled my Zapp and Cosi with care, I insisted on fragile stickers and tags - as annoying as i was i don't think my stroller could take another throwing :(

last time 1 of my zapp wheel appeared on the belt first, wa lau.. angry lar!

I walked towards the arrival gates, as i approached alot of feelings were running thru' me

*wondered if my mum was already waiting there for me*, Wondered how i would feel being back in Singapore, when i had gotten so sick of it that i remember leaving it with tears of joy in the first place.. sigh... what irony!

As the glass screen came to view with the few people that were standing there, i spotted S *brother's girlfriend*

Somehow tears just welled up in my eyes and i just broke down, that was an unexpected reaction! S is my brother's wife to be and someone who was kind of there for me when i needed someone to be..

My mum was buying a sandwich and a pastie, cos she thought i would be hungry after the flight...wow so touched...

We droved back to my brother's new place in Pasir Ris, and I love it just because its so warm & cosy and my oh my the puppy dogs!! Baby was so good with the Doggies!
It really feels like home. Could tell the baby was really comfortable despite it being a new experience for her... She was still alittle shy to S and my brother but remember Por Por!

Ella with the Puppy Dogs!

Called Baby's God Ma to tell her we were in town and Baby's YeYe.

S & Mum prepared so well for the baby, got a cot and a nice mattress with a beautiful comforter and pillow and a high chair for the baby!

I was so surprised as it was such a warm gesture!

We than took a nap the baby and i, in mum's room, the air-con was so refreshing!

we woke up right before lunch and went down for lunch across the street:)

I had Pork spare part Soup, it was heavenly!!

We went to buy more baby things, like diapers *Fitti*

*er i don't like, tabs sux - a few pieces out of the pack did not work!*

We got Baby Soap, teats and pacifiers! Man, you wouldn't believe how much one can buy for a baby!! Mum even bought baby a pretty red cheong sam for Chinese New year!
Mum wanted to bless us, so she paid for everything!

Baby had a bath before we went out again!

went to see best friend wx, dennis and baby Dray! Baby Dray is so adorable!!

So grown up and smart! Godma gave us Dray's Baby bath tub and a bagful of clothes for Baby!!

More Baby Gap Wor! *In the end we returned the tub because baby prefer the *old School* buy from neighbourhood *red tub*!

Thank you God ma!

Now this bit was the bomb, Kor went to work, so we went to bedok to have dinner...

* if i had my way i would truly do the "eat my way thru' bedok!"*

We wacked!

Bedok Bar Chor Mee!

BBQ chix Wings

Pork/Beef Satay

Pork, Century Egg, cuttlefish Congee.

Sugar Cane Juice..

Wa - Wa - Wa!! all i can say it was so good!! I miss hawker food so much!

S also introduce me to baby Bites! Baby totally loves it to bits!

After that we went back home and i had a chat with S *shiok*

it really feels nice being back home!

Am kicking myself for not taking more photos! The memory will be permanently etched into my brain, tat's for sure!

Very Last Minute Decision!

2010-01-31T15:17:00.009+08:00

It all started with a text to Mum that i lost my Job

Phone Rings!!!

Mum: Ger! You wanna come back singapore for a break or not bring ella

We will pay for all your expenses!

Me: Er dunno lei school going to start lei..

thoughts ran through my mind * i so need a break... how am i going to book tix?*

Mum: Kor, everyone want to see ella, come back for chinese new year .. . . etc *nothing really going in my ears* *how allan leave him behind? sigh*

Me: Mee i call you back!! I tomorrow go city to check out tickets...

Me and Allan discuss,. few more text to my mum *ding dong ding dong * back and forth!

Allan : Darling you just go can! and enjoy yourself...

i took his word, and i went online jetstar and book the cheapest flight available and the same day i booked it i had to fly off.. went into mad packing frenzy!

Yee came and sent me to airport... - My Uncle and Yee dam steady one, can always rely on them .. when truly in need...

so before i know it was at the Perth Airport Checking in...

i changed her diaper for the last time at parent's room, Changed her into a Comfy Top to Toe Sleepsuit and Wrapped her in my Pupsilk carrier and we were all set!

after ella has exchanged kisses with Uncle and Yee... we walked thru' the gates

First time Only me and the baby on the plane.. how i would do.. i don't know.. Can i handle it alone? Yes i can

I made sure i packed her milk, her stinky pillow and a few toys... *toys we didn't need* i realise as it was a night flight and ella was a gem... slept right thru' Not a Peep.. even with take off and landing! Stinky Pillow so important.. i guess it also helped that we had 3 seats in a row to ourselves so ella took 1 and a half to herself, strap her into the belts so she couldn't roll off anyways.. my Poncho kept her nice and cosy :)

She was the best behaved baby on flight! *grin*

Bream Fishing in the Summer Part 1

2010-01-28T19:02:00.002+08:00

Like on a mission, i was determine to experience catching a black bream this summer.
Called up S, off we went to some obscure location by the river, i have seen people fishing quite often, so there must be fish!

I really like this place, because it is so quite and calming... so 5 minutes, after we reached, the husband lowered the line... within seconds we heard a sudden reel of the line and Allan's rod bent like it was gona snap, the bream ran through the pylons and he lost it!! He lost the fish...
Omg, we were so excited... Baby also enjoy... but we left about 2 hours because we were under the hot Sun. We proceeded to our next location.

As we walked across the bridge we saw schools of bream below us, and Jellies floating down the river. It was an amazing sight! Back in Singapore i had to go to underwater world at Sentosa, just to see marine life, here it's right where it should be...

Because of the winds, Daddy was hugging Ella, so she won't feel so cold.

Wanna Catch a fish Ella?

Sad to say we caught none for the day! We were pretty disappointed having spend the entire day, wishing for a fish. We are not giving up tho, we are going to keep trying, but it has to be another day lol.

Morphing into Human Likeness!

2010-01-27T22:54:00.010+08:00

Daddy took these with our lumix!

She was playing with our alarm clock... how that got downstairs i have no clue.

As you can see she just woke up, still in her huggies, face not washed... but super cute! with that fly-away hair!

She is getting mighty-lee cheeky.. every day!

She does that squint eyes & pout which eventually ends in a full blown - most gorgeous smile ever! - Grand ma taught her! *thanks mum*

I love it to bits!

She is just such an affectionate baby, how did i get so lucky?

Just a few quick updates!
Ella at 9months Can. . .
*point index finger horizontally across mouth and tap repeatedly* indicating she wants her dummy! - whoever taught her that?!
Calls Mummy :) and Daddy! although i must say she started with Da - Da first!
Says Mum Mum... - hungry
Says Nan Nan or Nai Nai - Milk.
Reaches out her hands - *carry me!*
She yells *Hey* to anyone!
She can rock on, dance with you - whenever music comes on or you just shake with her! - this one tops everything!
She can sit up by herself, crawl, stand up by herself - supporting herself on furniture and cruise with support from whatever she is holding onto!
She can now also swallow bigger bits of food, but still loves her puree!

Hates to be in her stroller :( which is something i need to comment on!.. i am finding our Zapp rather annoying despite it being such a gorgeous looking stroller!

Baby Can't lie down for a snooze!!!! - irritating like hell... feel like buying another stroller .. sigh

anyways here are some shots we took of her! enjoy!

My Cheeky Monkey! Awesome 9 mth mug shots!

Keeping the Faith!

2010-01-27T22:21:00.005+08:00

“Faith isn't faith until it's all you're holding on to”
As i went to work today, the minute i step into the house, my boss told me her husband had gotten retrenched and she might not be needing me anymore :(
there goes my sweet 18.00 dollars an hour job!
I was kinda down the entire day. . . with the husband loss of income since December and now me too! We can't spend anymore money...
thankfully i believe in a God that will make a way when truly it seems there is no way

So far he has directed and been with us thru' every step, i find it impossible to believe that he will leave us in a lurch now.
So i am just believing God for something better.
The husband is starting work in the first week of February, so technically it ain't that bad...

We have some plans in the near future and that... we also have to commit to the lord, that he will see us through it, it's going to be a tough 2 years ahead but i know... the future is in the hands of our maker.. and i do not need to worry about tomorrow, for it will worry for itself!
Ella is such a blessing, that comes with no sorrow...

i might be going back to Singapore for 6 mths in October before returning to Perth again to continue my studies. . . we will see how that will pan out.. Yet to be confirmed!

anyways bream fishing tomorrow! will update :)

I Phone love

2010-01-26T20:56:00.004+08:00

I thank you Lord that you are the same God yesterday, today and tomorrow!
truly you watch over me, truly you care for me.
I lost my brand new i pod, the day i gave my Sony mp3 player away.
But the Lord has better plans for me...

May you bless the person who has blessed me so abundantly!!

I am lovin it so much, the person went out of her way and got me 32g , a beautiful white leather cover and stickers! She also got me a white pair of sandals...
truly i am so bless, and really love her and my brother for it!

I love my iphone ...

Summer Crabbing Part 2

2010-01-26T16:00:00.004+08:00

Just to complete my entry on our summer crabbing expeditions in mandurah . ..
I have a few more photos to share,
our last catch was a good 16 female 16 male...
The most gorgeous, sexy looking crustaceans one could ever ever ask for...
I love crabbing! It can be truly addictive... so we need to restrain ourselves otherwise we would have cause real destruction to the waters of WA!

tho baby is too young too feel the excitement!
This is hoping she would one day look back and know in her heart at least we didn't leave her out of the experience...
See the crab with roe, that is baby crabs going to be released into the waters very soon.. we had alot released! Alot of undersized ones as well otherwise our numbers would have surely exceeded the beautiful 32!
there's my cool aunt carrying the baby.
Uncle Joel was in town as well :) he had what you would call beginner's luck...
every net he pulled had a big one... i on the other hand scored nothing
Still love it when Joel is in town.. this time he bought me a gift from my sister in law!
My New Pretty White I phone hahahaha!
and a bunch of gorgeous apparel for baby from her God Ma :)

This photos were taken, when we were admiring our catch!
The most sexy alienish gorgeous crabs
As i recall savoring it, with the decadent sweet okra roe mmmmh... man
this is what heaven must feel like :)

this Thursday we might try our hand in catching black bream.. - so now you know why i just don't have the time to come on and blog...

Summer Crabbing at Mandurah!

2010-01-17T12:44:00.010+08:00

The Peel
i like the sound of it... Mandurah's Peel
It is semi - touristy :) Mandurah is a place where people literally have the ocean as their backyards, and a lot of them park their *cars* boats right behind their gorgeous houses!
Anyways back to our trip, it's a good 45- 60 minute drive from where we live right...

* CRABBING IN THE BEAUTIFUL WATERS OF MANDURAH*

We lowered our nets within minutes!! we had crabs in every net, it was a really good day :)
I love this location more than Newman point only because the area is contained, we had the place to ourselves and there is shelter with a cool breeze, was very nice!
the downside is the swarms of puffer fish devours our bait like piranhas...
We had a huge crab that killed another smaller crab in 1 net, it was instant death for the poor fellow.
i never seen such freaking huge pelicans man...

thank you uncle sam for being so pro at crabbing, fishing etc :) we really enjoy ourselves!
I am so grateful for my uncle and aunt for fetching us, preparing the most splendid sandwiches and helping to look after Ella while we haul the nets!

The preparation was so easy, with my uncle so Pro at setting up the BBQ, nice and cool in the alfresco :) I reckon we did really well and we had about 20 + crustaceans :) much to Zaiqing's delight.. She can wack more than 7 crabs if you ask me on a good day!

Truly enjoy man, what more can you ask for.. crabs + Yee's amazing chill + Sweet Wine + Best Company with love ones :)
Sigh...Wish my Family was here...

Summer Crabbing + Fishing @ Woodman's Point

2010-01-14T15:53:00.017+08:00

Summer Holidays - I am really lovin it!
The heat is bombastically insane!
Sorry am not bloggin' as much as i want to, as there is just too much that is going on!
We had the most amazing time fishing and crabbing at woodman's Point, there is a spot where you catch the most amazing blue swimmer crabs aka flower crabs in Singapore... Once you have had them fresh! you don't want to eat those available in Singapore plus the size they go up to 2 feet in length.. we talking gigantic crabs... anyways here are the photos! *The infamous Freo Seal*
Meet the resident seal :) So cute yet so annoying..
it cruises the waters near where all the fishing lines and nets are, not only does it want your catch, it will eat your bait- if you use fish frames to lure your catch!
it is quite a concern imagine it chasing your catch.. people get worried their hook might get stuck in it's mouth and it will probably get nasty... you trying to get your hook out of the cute seal :)
Sometimes if you get lucky there is always this one dolphin that will compete with it.. for food...
While we were there, one guy even jumped in to swim near it, he went pretty close to it, i was half the time picturing him getting mauled by it but.. it never happened haha

This is my couzin's gf playing with baby :) it is hard planning a fishing trip with the baby, every minute you have to be watching her, husband chained our stroller to a pole on the jetty and she gets very irritated easily, and won't sit in her stroller, so darling have to carry her half the time... good thing aunt came so she could take care of her, and although it is summer, at the jetty, the winds are pretty strong, sometimes i almost feel like it could blow me off if i were to stand an inch to close to over the edge of the jetty.. love the picture of her trying to run :)

These are pictures we took when we just arrived at the jetty :)

Our First Blue Swimmer Crab :)
Compliments of Sam!
I was half way trying to feed the baby cereal ... tats why pose until very unglam haha...
i love the pink spoon that i am holding! it's from munchkin.. turns white if food is too hot!.. bought it for $8.00 a pack of 4 colors!

This is our catch for the day :) I tried my hand at jigging for sardines - they call it bait fish here..
When i caught the first one it was pure euphoria
I didn't even dare touch the fish did not know how to unhook it... allan had to help me
2nd Catch i had 2 fishes on my line!
i was so excited i dragged the fish all the way back to where everyone was, and lost 1 fish on the way a seagull flew in and got it.. i was hilariously, almost comically upset about it...
After that.. i just went all Gung-ho and with steady hands - i started helping to unhook the slimey sardines, by this point of time Sam had put my jigs on an actual fishing pole and allan was getting quite Pro, he was catching sardines every few minutes.. it was amazing.
An italian man next to us.. shared his burley bait and even gave me an extra set of hooks :)
By the way Sam is my Couzin if you haven't already guessed it..
Oh and we netted about 8 Blue Swimmer crabs!!
Oh and on our way back to the carpark from the jetty, we got checked by the
FISHERIES DEPARTMENT
how fun :) was a good thing we were behaving and we stuck to strict regulations!
- we threw back lots of crabs that were too small -
so that was a good thing!

We brought our loot back to my Aunts and it was amazing!!
The crabs.. tasted so divine :) so sweet.. I want MORE!

tomorrow we shall go to Mandurah's Peel to do Crabbing again :) Have to wake up at Blardee 6am

Opening a Pandora's Box.

2010-01-06T01:01:00.015+08:00

We recently brought ella to our friend's place in Joondalup after Xmas, for a 2 night stay over.
We had the most wonderful time with them and the most delicious bbq we have had in a long time! Ella even had a lovely time playing in their whimsical pool out in their newly constructed patio.

They are so very blessed, coming 4 years in perth, they have settled very nicely here... They didn't have it easy, but the fruits of their labor is coming to pass, and it really inspires and motivates us to work even harder, to one day like them... own a place we can call home!

Anyways.. back to the Pandora's box... they have so much toys right, especially since they are expecting a new edition to their family quite soon, they have prepared a box of baby toys... and while ella was there, she just got so stimulated and entertained by all the toys, we realised our baby is very ready to play and it might just be about time to buy more books and toys for her!

So the minute we got back from our holiday with the Mahsters... we went to the shops and even visit salvos and good sammys! We discovered our love for shopping at second hand shops when we first came to perth!
I guess it's probably the thrill of searching for something nice, still in mint condition and getting it for a steal.
I have bought quite a few pieces of baby wear, that is in very good condition and some very branded.. Imagine lar, alot of rich people donate their shit haha.

The "ATAS" part in me, makes sure it's fit for the little queen to wear... and so, the first time i actually walked in the shop to browse, i got so excited when i was able to walk away with a pink- wooly sleepsuit, tat looks like it hasn't even been worn much for 70cents!
After i went on to acquire denim jumper that is so cute for 3dollars, a denim cap to match for 2dollars, sometimes they even have 50% on top of the already low prices :) LOVE IT!

Like today, i spotted a white skirt, very understated - i thought hm mm perfect with the few burberry tops given by auntie Jen ... than power 50% on the yellow tag... after i bought it saw a little green tag and than realized it was "united Colors of Benetton" didn't even know this brand could be found here in Perth.. OH Wat a steal.. bought it for a dollar fifty!! PURE ADDICTION!

Anyways, back to the LOOT of toys we acquire from good Sammy's

This bead maze wire toy *very good for developing fine motor skills* that i am so dying to get, at Toys R us for 20dollars, i actually already almost made up my mind to buy it at toys r us, but than.. decided to wait and see what i can get my hands on at Mr Sammy's and am sooo frikin' happie that i waited :D we got it close to brand new at 3dollars!
I got a couple of good baby books and beginner books for 25 cents - a dollar each - good titles in good condition mind you!

Bundle of toys for $2.00 - it had things like mylittlepony, spray toy, Mr tickle, Ms Sunshine, Monkey rattle by littletikes, some sesame street ones, com bi car, power puff girl etc...

all it needed was a good soak in warm soapy water, a good air-dry in the sun!

Now the princess has hours of fun :) just sitting on the rubber foam mat that we got for 15.00 at the reject shop... playing with new books and toys... we make sure we exchange the toys every now and than so she doesn't lose interest!

So it has been a very good holiday so far:
i want to blog about the Lord's favor upon our lives, the little things that happen, that just makes life so much easier :) but that would have to be another day. . .

time for bed *yawn*

Gasp! 9 months today!

2010-01-03T17:36:00.010+08:00

Baby is 9 months today,
as i was doodling with the blog a little, my faithful ticker just reminded me my baby was born just nine months ago on this very day :) alas how time flies. . .

i would like to share something that is very close to my heart...
i am so glad that i had the most privileged chance to experience breastfeeding and am proud that i manage to do it past the 6 month mark. I would encourage every mum to PLEASE! breast feed your baby!
You will not REGRET it and all the hard work will not be in vain!

I feel warm with a tinge of sadness, when i think back on the times i have bonded with Ella, just 2 of us in our own lil' world, and now it's gone. I have fought the long fight... its dam blardee hard work to pump milk during class breaks when u only have 1/2 hour to do so, thankfully for my supportive gf who always goes to the canteen to heat up my lunch, so that i comfortably pump milk and than proceed to classroom with my lunch ready for me to eat!
oh and Work i have to shut myself in the bathroom and do a 5 minute pump... just so my boob doesn't explode!, especially after an 8 hour shift of running after 3 over-active rascals.
there are times i think i must be completely MAD ... but if you were to know how much i love my baby than you would know that... i will still do it all over again in a heartbeat. So please please try to breast feed your baby!

An Ordinary Day in Ella's world will be something like this:

At the crack of Dawn - whatever time she chooses to wake up - 50ml milk
She takes to Karicare formula quite well
Around 8:30 - organic baby's banana porridge By Rafferty's Garden
this yummie breakfast is baby's favie! in the morno'
9am - Noon - Nap and playtime - we leave it to her
Noon - Lunch -
Puree or Porridge with whatever ingredients - chef's choice.
Ella doesn't quite like rice... :( don't know why! Her preference is for Potato, Flour type things more than rice!
After Lunch - 50ml milk
Nap/playtime,
summers here~! we let her dip in the wading pool in our yard.

sometimes we go for a walk in her Quinny around the neighborhood
50ml milk or Biscuits in milk for arvo tea!
DO you know chn learn thru' play and that is how they develop! so MORE PLAY YAY!
Dinner - Sometimes samo thing as lunch keke :P but normally change different purees for variety!
7pm - 8:30pm After that BATH TIME.. which she truly enjoys!
After bath straight to bed- with 80ml milk
Midnight 100ml - 150ml
3am- 5.30am - 100ml
Do you see my baby is a night feeder!- i can understand now why sometimes at 3 in the morning during pregnancy i crave MACS!!

i have also recently packed away all her '0000' '000' and some smaller '00' sizes... some i have gave away to a friend that is expecting a baby girl. . . but the nicer pieces I've kept - not sure for what but i can't find a reason to give away or donate at the moment.
I love how her wardrobe has changed from winter wears and layers to the thinnest singlets and sweetest summer dresses! I have yet to acquire 1 year winter wears for the upcoming winter...
i will see what i can get my hands on...

Gone are the days of air, love and crusts of bread for the baby...

2010

2010-01-02T22:37:00.012+08:00

I know in my heart that it's going to be a fantastic New Year in 2010!
Sometimes i ask myself if we made the right decision by coming to Perth. . because of the many obstacles that come our way, but now that 2009 has gone by, i am certain, this was meant to be.
We have found a church that we look forward to attending every Sunday... and we are finally more or less settling in, and getting use to this lifestyle.
I still have certain worries but i know that it is all gonna be taken care of! Amen...

Am learning so much about the local culture here, catching on their lingo and just getting used to the Aussie cuisine as well. Husband and the baby seems to love it here. We have a few friends that i am thankful for! We have been very blessed by the few people that we know here.

My baby doll is really growing up! I am like 80% done with organizing my huge photo archive and i just am amazed at how she has grown. . .looking back on her first few photos that the husband took! * btw off topic, it's 37 degrees in perth atm* one of the hottest summer days and we 3 are in the bedroom melting... normally by night it's quite cooling but woah tonight it's bad!* it's nice and quiet, in the house, everyone is asleep and i finally get a little peace and quiet to blog.

my oh so tiny fragile miracle, has grown to be a gorgeous sweetheart, with a charming personality
i love her cheeky grin, it's so cute can! she shows off her gums , still with no teeth and she does this by squinting her big eyes... so adorable can!

I have finally almost stop producing breast milk. sometimes i would still just let her suckle a little if she seems overly unsettled which is quite rare, and ever since she has become accustomed to the nuk teat and formula, i can tell she considers it quite a treat when i allow her to suckle, she does it in the most loving and gentle way, closing on my nip in a slow mo way.. it's so endearing to me :) i know she is trying her best to control herself by not *biting down on my nip*, cos you know now her gums are really itchy...

Baby is absolutely attached to me, just wants me all the time! Is it like that with all babies?, i thank God for that actually... and i cherish that, JUST BECAUSE! i have a little someone who just adores me :) *omg it's so hot the powder i put on my neck before i sleep each night has turned to mush :(* anyways.. i will try not to think about the heat.. and focus, with completing this post!

Baby says "Da-deee, Da-deee" indiscriminately now. i think when she wants milk or Nan to carry her she says "nan, nan or nai nai" am still observing and will definately do more updates!

Can't wait when she starts calling me mummy.. i think i would have died and gone to heaven when that happens.
She sometimes is in her own little world babbling and just talking to herself in the most adorable and amusing way. How ar.. i am absolutely am crazy about this munchkin!

We have recently invested in quite a few toys and books for her from Good Sammy!
She is very good and sits down on the ABC rubber foam mat and plays with her rattles etc.
She also demonstrates good development in her Gross motor skills as she stands periods of time, cruising on the sides of the Whinny the Pooh Playpen...

She is weighing about 8kg at the moment, did not put on much :( since the last i weighed her..
But her weight is normal :)
i wonder sometimes if she is eating, drinking enough...
She only takes 50ml milk every few hours, few baby spoons of puree etc, i read that 8mth babies should be able to manage appropriate finger food as well, but baby still gets choke quite easily..
so i reckon she is quite a small eater, in God's time she will be able to handle food better, in the meantime, mummy and nan will make delicious porridge for you, until u can handle more complicated food.

so am really enjoying my holiday where i get to spend every minute with her..
*wah really cannot stand the heat* and i think baby is starting to complain due to the heat...*
For the year 2010 i am going to make a point to be healthier
For my baby's sake.. i am going to cut back on unhealthy habits, fatty foods and Sugary Sodas...
Pray for me.. that i can cut my addiction on soft drinks...

Goodnight Baby ella, mummy loves you very much!