Soh far Soh good

Holiday....Celebrate...It will be so nice!

2012-02-09T03:53:00.001+11:00

So to date the Soh family has:

1. Met up with old friends and new friends.
2. Eaten their fair share of Chinese New Year treats.
3. Put on 3 kgs - EACH - because of said CNY treats.
4. Just returned from a fantastic weekend away to Bintan with the Kohs, Pngs and Foos.
5. Look like bright red lobsters because of said fantastic weekend away to Bintan with the Kohs, Pngs and Foos.

How quickly 3 weeks have passed! It's just zoomed by in a lightning quick second, and we're on the last leg of our trip here, though not before EG and I spend a romantic getaway to Krabi!

Here're some pics we took in Bintan:

Aidan and David. buddies at the beach!

Don't we love this vacayyy

Family time!

THIS is what a vacation's suppose to be...lying by the pool, reading a good book.

All rugged up after a good swim.

The Angsana Resort Bintan even served frozen watermelon sticks as we lounged!

And the staff were SO warm and SO hospitable!

Tanned and Rested!

Happy 2012 and the chronicles of Batboy...

2012-01-05T13:49:00.001+11:00

Wow another year has passed. And we've seen such exciting adventures! We've started 3 y.o kinder, and made yummy baked treats for people via Buttercup Bakeshoppe.

Lately Aidan's major obsession is a red cape he got as a birthday pressie in September.

With the weather warming up and GORGEOUS, he's been spending more time in the park, and always, always with the red cape. That, along with the varied costumes he's received as Christmas pressies, can make a simple trip to the shops and cafes a completely fun dressup experience!

Batboy with his super spy goggles

Transformer Aidan

Transformer Aidan, seen here with Tradie Dad

"Oh my GAHD, the Decepticons are drunk on Energon. Again!!"

Batboy strategising the reclamation of Arkham City from the hands of the Joker

and his nefarious gang of asylum inmates.

Batboy enjoying a well-deserved treat after his victorious reclamation of Gotham City

(previously known as Arkham City) from the hands of the Joker

and his nefarious gang of asylum inmates.

Batboy accepting his trophy for defeating the Joker and...oh you get the drift.

How humble and shy he is, oh great warrior-boy.

One of Batboy's many tricky disguises!

And his able sidekick, the Pink Avenger!!

Spiderboy, with his many Christmas pressies!

Skywalker Jones launching his super missle!

Ah, and sharing some good times with his Godma and Didi this morning!

Well, after a whirlwind 2011, I'm really looking forward to some R & R in Singers next Sunday. NEXT SUNDAY I can't wait to get back for a loooong vacation! Woot!

Soh, from the Soh family, a very Happy New Year!

Fight or Flight

2011-11-12T10:41:00.000+11:00

Nothing jumps you on edge while watching Phineas and Ferb with your son than seeing a threatening arachnid advancing towards you.

Gah! No fear, SUPER MUM is here! With a single bound she leaps into action and rolls up an old Life & Style section while simultaneously reaching for the can of insecticide (SUPER MUM, much like Elastogirl, has arms that extend way beyond human proportions. That is why she can juggle bags of groceries as well as her 15-kilo pre-schooler while exiting her vehicle.)

Spinning around, she tells her son to hold his nose so the noxious gas doesn't fill his lungs, then sprays the bejeesus outta that spider. It starts running back towards the wall so she sprays some more. Then freezes when she sees not one, not two, but 100,000 (or it could just have been 15, the adrenaline was really pumping) mini little baby spiders disperse from Mama spider's body as she struggles forward.

OMIGOD! I'd destroyed an entire family of spiders! She was probably transporting them to a safer location when she made a wrong turn somewhere!

Poor Mama Spider!

As a combatant in the jungle fray it was fight or flight mode for me. But as a fellow mum, I felt truly sorry that she who was trying to protect her children met such a fatal end. Was Papa spider wondering where his family has disappeared to? Why his little incy wincies weren't climbing up that spout again?

Alas, only a decent burial would do. So I gently scooped all their little bodies up with tissue, and ceremoniously dumped them into the bin.

Lookalike!!

2011-10-13T13:54:00.000+11:00

We picked up a free book that teaches kids how to care for their teeth, and the accompanying poster.

WHO DO YOU THINK THIS LOOKS LIKE?!!

It's uncanny isn't it?

Of course, it makes it much easier to coax my little man to brush his teeth "like the Aidan in the poster!"

Teeheehee!

A day in the life of...

2011-10-13T13:50:00.000+11:00

It's only mid-day but I thought I'd share what a Thursday's usually like for us in the Soh household.

Today we started off pretty normal, with Aidan and I snuggling in bed, reading a book and horsing around. It's Day 3 of him sleeping without a nappy at night, and we're pretty excited that accidents have been kept to a minimum. And of course, my rambunctious son likes to jump around and crack jokes. Like "Aaah! The spaceship! It's attacking me!" or "HA HA Mum, I FARTED! In the BED! HA HA!" or

"Knock knock"
"Who's there?"
"Boo"
"Boo Who?"
"Oh don't cry Mum, it's only a joke!"

He was playing pretend again, "Aaah! Somebody's shooting my nan-nan! HA HA HA!!" (I think all this nan-nan business arose from this incident.) To which I replied drolly, "What, is it target practice?"

Harrumph. Boy fart jokes.

Anyhoos, we had a lovely late brekkie of a sausage on cheese toast with milo, and Aidan started to pretend that we're at a tea room. By the way, conversations like the one below are quite typical in this household!

Aidan: "Would you like some tea?"
Me: "Why yes, thank you."
(Goes off and pretends to pour a cuppa)
"Here you go."
Now it's my turn.
"Would you like a cup of...coffee?"
"But, I can't! I'm not a grown up yet!"
Oops, my mistake. "Er...how about some hot chocolate then?"
"No, tea thanks."
"Ok, would you like a cup of tea?"
"Yes please."
I go off to the pretend teapot and pour a cuppa.
We both calmly sip our "tea", me secretly thrilled we can play tea-party pretend even though he's a boy and not a little girly girl, when he suddenly spits out his "tea" and shouts, "YUCK! Why are there WORMS in my tea?!!"

So much for my tea party.

And then it was off to swim class, where he's getting better and better at his strokes and stretching out his breathing. (Not that I can tell, I'm off in the big pool trying to get rid of the belly bulge from my love affair with chocolate bikkies.) But we get back together after the lesson and pop into the play pool where he and his friend Nati splash around, jump around and go up and down the froggy slide.

Until he threw up. And the pool is witness to the horrific Exorcist sight of Aidan spewing red bile and bits of sausage. I had to do the painfully embarrassing task of telling all the parents in the pool to Leave Leave Leave, my son has just puked, good God don't get it on your child!!

Typical day.

Another milestone

2011-10-10T20:20:00.000+11:00

Champion!

Aidan slept through last night without a nappy.

We thought since he's turned 4 it's about time he started leaving nappies behind...and about time he slept in his undies, like a proper, grown up boy.

That, plus the fact we ran out of nappies. Hah!

Anyhoos, we'll see how tonight goes!

In the meantime, here's a shot we took today. Because, really, he's my hero <3 <3

Looks pretty fierce here, but there's another pic I took where he's smiling...

Happy Fourth!

2011-09-21T17:16:00.000+10:00

This post is a little overdue, but better late than never!

Can't believe how quickly my little one's turned a grand ol' four. FOUR! That's the age where we REALLY start to remember things...like how I used to swivel the fan away from my baby sis late at night because I was SO HOT and who cares if she suffocated in the heat?

I was not a nice child.

That said, my bubba has grown leaps and bounds in the last year, he's now 103cm, a grand leap from the 96cm measured at his third birthday.

We've always had crazy conversations, and lately their getting more grown up. "So, Ma, how was YOUR day today?" He then turns to his Dad. "So, Dad, how was work today? Good?"

Precocious preciousness!

We celebrated his birthday with some time away in Perth - saves us on the big ol' birthday party (I feel terrible for him though! I really have to brush up on my caking skills to make that Bumblebee-Transformer cake he wants). It was a short holiday, but lovely weather, and great to see the cousins and Aidan's great-aunt and great-uncle again.

Here with Amanda-jie. He's been doing the sticky-out tongue thing lately!

With the cousins at Kings Park, Perth. Beautiful day for the Wildflower Festival!

My Aunt and Uncle, happy as ever.

(And my uncle's as crazy as ever - it's in the genes I tell ya!)

He LOVES the sunshine!!

With some Corica Apple strudel to celebrate his birthday.

Cheeky tongue again!!

Love our pyjamas - all in bright colours! heh

We met up with the Chuas who were in Perth too -

JoJo and Aidan had SO MUCH FUN in the water!

SO! Reflection time... as I do whenever we hit milestones...

2011 has been a tremendous time for my growth personally, since I've found a vocation I can be passionate about - cake decorating. And Art! It's been terrific to be able to involve that dormant creative side of my self, and allow it to grow and grow, especially through the Bakeshoppe. I think keeping busy and purposeful (Proverbs 29:18) has allowed me to Breathe again, and while I don't think I've perfected the art of parenting, I'm getting there.

Yesterday and today, I've been pretty sick. But thankfully I don't have any big orders in this week, which means I can get much needed rest, and that has allowed me to really step away from everything (especially Facebooking ack!!) and spend meaningful time with Aidan. Who's also pretty sick btw, we're both down with the flu AND fever.

We memorised Scripture as part of our church's 40 days of Prayer (to the tune of "Spider-Man, Spider-Man..." in a groovy '60s beach-boys vibe LOL!!), read books, played lego, told stories, cuddled, watched heaps of telly.

This, and our trip to Perth has really made me treasure the current opportunity I have with Aidan, that we can spend days together and hopefully I won't waste it! Once he starts prep...*sigh* My baby's growing up so quickly!!

Special times...

Of bumblebees and noodles

2011-08-25T23:23:00.000+10:00

Things have really been heating up (hur hur) in the kitchen lately, what with the constant stream of cupcakes, cakes and whatnots to make. This week alone I've made 2 wedding cakes, and about 100 cupcakes, including mini ones!!

Phew!

And Aidan's turning 4 in a couple of weeks, and what does he want? A TRANSFORMER-BUMBLEBEE cake, like this one:

The only thing I could say to him was "SIAO AH?!!"

He's been such a great kid lately, helping me with my baking and generally not getting up to too much mischief so I can get work done. And he said, "Mama, you're the best Cooker!" Hmm...a pressure cooker maybe?

Anyways, in light of all this baking, I thought I'd post something different. A couple of weeks ago I made seafood hor fun and it garnered a bit of attention from friends on facebook asking for the recipe, so I thought I'd post it here.

Seafood Wat Tan Hor Fun (adapted from May's Favourites)
1 pkt fresh hor fun - at room temp. at loosened
250g medium green prawns
100g choy sum (chai sim)
1 egg, lightly beaten
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
4-5 tbsp cooking oil
2 tbsp cornflour mixed with 4 tbsp water
2 cups chicken stock
White pepper to taste

Sauce Mix
1 tbsp light soy sauce
1 tbsp chinese cooking wine
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp sugar

Method
1. Rinse, peel and devein prawns, leaving tails intact.
2. Fry hor fun over a hot wok until fragrant and slightly burned. Use a little (1 tbsp) cooking oil if necessary. Transfer cooked hor fun to a serving dish.
3. Heat wok with 2 tbsp cooking oil and fry garlic lightly.
4. Add prawns and fry til they turn pink.
5. Add chicken stock and bring to a boil.
6. Add choy sum and cook lightly.
7. Add cornflour mixture, then reduce the heat.
8. Add Sauce Mix and stir, then slowly pour in beaten egg and stir again lightly for the "dropped egg" effect.
9. Pour sauce over the fried hor fun, sprinkle white pepper to taste and serve with green chillis if you like.

For more baking hijinks, visit http://www.buttercup-bakeshoppe.com

The boy who cried wolf

2011-08-10T11:58:00.000+10:00

THE MOST HILARIOUS THING HAPPENED YESTERDAY.

It was just a typical Monday, filled with soccer practice, Chinese lessons (me teaching him 1 to 20 in Mandarin, and drawing out the characters; he picked it up pretty quick I must say, he can recite it all! Must be all the repetition before bed when EG pats him and counts to 20 in Chinese...anyways, I digress...) and the usual household errands.

We'd just returned from the park and I decided to fill the tub so he could have a bath rather than a quick shower. His "swimming pool" as he calls it. And I ducked downstairs to start preparing dinner.

All of a sudden, I heard cries of "Mum! Mum! Muuuuuum!" and I rushed upstairs in a panic, only to have him shout "Mum, the water, there isn't enough!" Hmph. So much for an S.O.S. I filled the tub with a little more water then left.

Ten minutes later, another cry for help. Again, I rushed up, only to have him tell me "Help! Help! The water is draining away!"

"No, it's not, there's still enough water in the tub for your to play in. And have you heard the story of the boy who cried wolf? I am NOT coming up again, I have to cook dinner, and no more cries of help!! Because I'm not coming up again, do you understand me?!"

*Pause*

"Are you going to tell me the boy and the wolf story?"

!!!!!!!

I went back downstairs. Five minutes later, I hear crying. REAL crying. Not wracking sobs, but teary enough to warrant another trudge up the stairs...sigh...

I entered the bathroom to see his tear-stained face and asked what happened. "Sniff...my...my....nan-nan." he sniffed, clutching his chest. "My fish bit me."

Turned out his fishy bath toy had accidentally clipped his nip, and I'm so terribly sorry, I'm a bad mother but I BURST OUT LAUGHING and then quickly kneeled by the bathtub and hung my head so he couldn't see me fighting the giggles while I tried to comfort him.

"Oh you *gasp giggle* poor thing... *choke chortle* are you ok? Does it still *pbbbttttHAHAHApbttt*... hurt?"

And inside me I was thinking, Talk about karma!

Warning: Expletives involved

2011-07-13T23:39:00.000+10:00

There's a hilarious "children's" book that's topping the bestseller lists and it's called "Go the F___ to sleep". Now Noni Hazelhurst (an Australian actress who hosted Playschool for like 23 years) has done a video reading for it, and it's pretty damn funny.

You can read the article here.

I can totally relate to the book - I'm sure every parent can! Even now, with Aidan turning four in a couple of months, I STILL had to spend a good 45 minutes last night returning him back to bed in the middle of the night (2.45 - 3.30am, to be precise). Usually I'd just hug him to sleep because I'm just too darn lazy to return him back to bed, but he's going off night nappies soon, and the thought of being actually soaked while dreaming of cruising down the Nile is just too much to bear. That, and having to keep rewashing my sheets.

And then he was back again at 5.30am; this time since EG was already awake to get to work, he brought A back to the room on my behalf. Not that I was asleep anyways, since returning to bed at 3.30am I couldn't get back to sleep properly with my sleep cycle completely disrupted. And I really do think that with bad sleep, your body just can't deal with stress and physical labour (like standing for five straight hours in the kitchen baking & decorating - not back-breaking work, but tiring nonetheless). Hence your immune system is down, and you fall sick, sick, sick.

Throw in the cold weather and germs swarming around us, it really does bring out the inner hypochondriac in me! A's caught conjunctivitis, I'm still having a slight cold, and I'd only just recovered from a viral infection a couple weeks ago. I've washed my hands countless times today; I think my skin's about to peel off.

So I can totally commiserate with parents who, on top of sleep deprivation and their usual work, end their day having to negotiate with a four-year-old as uncompromising as Gaddafi.

While I do spend about a good 20-30 minutes putting Aidan to bed - teeth-brushing, book-reading, and the "three things" (GAWD the "three things", they take too long, why and how did ever we start this routine?!) which are Prayer, Songs, and "Pat-pat 20 times Mum!", I don't need to beg, cajole, bribe or threaten (no...that only happens during daytime activities, like packing his toys, or getting off the computer - the computer! Aren't we suppose to nag them about the computer only when they reach 13???!!)

Many parents do though, and by the time they get out of the room, there's barely any energy left for quality time between spouses. You flop onto the couch, or into bed, breathe a sigh of relief, and you're out for the count.

That's why EVERY parent needs a book like this:

Just to blow off some steam!

Playdates 'R Us

2011-07-07T16:42:00.001+10:00

Since Tess & Pierre left on Tuesday, the house has been rather quiet. We had a really great 2 weeks having my sis around, cooking for us, playing with Aidan...it was wonderful! And we got to celebrate her birthday (a few weeks early) with her too, which is pretty rare since she's usually in Singapore, and we're here in Melbourne, in July. Here's the cake we made for her.

You can read more about this at Buttercup Bakeshoppe's blog

Anyhoos, we solved the general loneliness by having playdates both yesterday and today with our neighbour Sarika's daughter, Samiksha (or Sammi, for short).

What a blast! Had a great tea-time at their house yesterday, and today we're returning the favour. Currently, the two of them are watching some telly as I typed this, and laughing about something memorable. ("Underpants!!" I overhear.)

When Aidan saw Sammi today, after emerging from his shower in the bathroom, he said, and I kid you not, "Hey! Wow, you're all dressed up...You look beautiful Samiksha!" She was wearing a blue-bow hairband and a pink jumper.

O. M. G. What a charmer!! I reckon he's got that silver-tongue from his Dad.

And then they ran off and created a ruckus in the guestroom and downstairs. Hmm. Must get them to pack the mess up before she goes...

Cheeeeeese and whiskers!!

But the great thing about playdates is that it gives each mum a little time off to herself. I get to bake, and I hope Sarika gets some time to rest, seeing how she also has another baby to care for.

Speaking of baking, lots to prep for this Sunday's Southside Handmade and Vintage market! See you there if you're free, it's 11am-5pm in St. Kilda. :)

Two little butterballs sizzling in the pan...

2011-06-09T11:03:00.000+10:00

With Aidan's cousin, Anna in town over the last month, the house has been filled with so much laughter. They played so well, quibbled and built a "castle" in the bedroom out of mattresses, pillows and blankets. How cute!

It was really great having family around and helping out and adding so much joy to the house. Now that they're all gone, it's been so quiet and strange. Boo. I miss my chats with my mum-in-law, and having EG's aunt cook super delicious meals everyday! Twice a day even! And my dad took care of all the laundry and ironing. I was terribly spoilt, mind you, and now that I've to do everything by myself again it takes some getting used to!

On the upside, my sis will be arriving in a couple of weeks, so Aidan and I looking forward her company!

Anna...with her mouth covered in food AS USUAL!!

(teeheehee I call her my little butterball...)

Told'ja Dad likes ironing!

The folks are back in town

2011-05-10T12:33:00.002+10:00

So the in-laws have been here for a week, and it's been a blast, albeit noisy! Everyone's found a groove to make the household work - Mai Ling's the cook, MIL packs the house with speedy efficiency (OMG it's so neat now, I hope I can maintain it), DIL does the laundry, Ming Hui looks after the kids...what's there left for me to do?

Bake of course! ;p

Trialing some new stuff for the market next Sunday, as well as our Australia's Biggest Morning Tea collaboration with Fashion Deli in Toorak. Head there for gorgeous finds for your lil' chickadees!

Anyways, thought I'd put up some shots we took a short while ago at Wennie and Josh's wedding Photobooth! Plus the cake I'd made for the gorgeous couple:

Cheeky boys!

I LOVE how photogenic Aidan is...his eyes are just so 'bright' in pictures

Hmm...my eyes look a little weird in this one...

The Happy Couple!!

Two-tiered chocolate fudge cake, with chocolate ganache and white fondant.

It's themed to match their wedding invite.

Adelaide guests

2011-05-01T23:46:00.001+10:00

Last week was Easter break, when we had a phenomenal 5-day weekend. Amazing! I'd originally thought of simply relaxing and catching up with friends over brunch, but EG decided at the very last minute to go visit our friends Stan and Andrea over in Adelaide. SO we drove there...yes, all 8.5 hours.

I hadn't done a road trip in awhile, and was really honestly not looking forward to it, but hey, a holiday's a holiday right??

We had a magnificent time! I'll eventually post some photos up, but we really loved the welcoming hospitality of the Chngs, and made new friends along the way. Also visited Hahndorff (the only German outpost in Australia apparently...but very touristy) and ate the famous platter. And Maggie Beer's farmhouse and the Barossa Valley of course. Sweet!

But the other highlight of the trip was Aidan strengthening his friendship with the Chng's son, Jared. Jared and Aidan met on our last trip back to Singapore, and got along pretty well, but this trip sealed the deal. They could play and talk for hours! Aidan loved all of Jared's toys and games, and they had great fun pretending to be pirates (note to self: get more role-playing stuff for A).

The Chngs were so sad when we had to leave on Monday morning so we could make it back in time for a friend's wedding on Tuesday. So much so, they kept trying to convince us to stay and skip the wedding!

But surprise, surprise! Andrea's work sent her to Melbourne a lot sooner than expected and they landed here this morning, leaving Wed evening. Woohoo!

And this was what the boys got up to this morning:

Justin Bieber eat your heart out!

Have you checked out my Boyz in Da Hood?

Too funny!!

Oh! And before I forget, last night Aidan was singing Marry You by Bruno Mars, when he paused and said to me, "Mama, when I grow up, I want to marry you!"

And I asked, Why?

And he said, "Because you're pretty and cool." *heart melts*

Oh my Gawd. Forget the pretty part, my son thinks I'm COOL!! For a mum, that's high praise!!

Let's hope he still thinks so when he's 10 and I'm dropping him off at school and I kiss my wittle baby in front of his friends.

BECAUSE YOU BET I WILL.

Happy 6th Anniversary!

2011-04-09T17:42:00.000+10:00

According to my son, who's in his superhero phase, he's Batman, EG is Superman and I am Wonder Woman.

And there's no other week that I've felt more heroic than this! A's been down with a terrible phlegm-y cough and fever since Tuesday (YET still has his usual hyperactive energy), EG's just caught it and is so under the weather he may as well be buried (in fact, he is, under the doona at the moment), and I've been tasked with keeping the house running (passable), neat (failing) and that they're BOTH fed, washed and put to be on time.

All this on top of making a wedding cake for Wennie and Josh's wedding today (congrats guys...double date next year??) AND the usual cupcake order for the store!

I'm so busy this weekend, we've had to put off our anniversary celebration til...well...soon... I think? Because next week's another round of baking for Buttercup Bakeshoppe's first market at the North Melbourne Market NEXT SUNDAY!

But back to topic, it's just as well we're home. EG's so sick (yet he still attended the wedding, then promptly spent most of the time lying in the car) I don't think he can sit through a candle-lit dinner tonight. And I've got to get back to baking cupcakes.

And at least it'll buy me some time to think of what to give him for our anniversary...can't believe we've been married 6 years! GAH! We've had our ups and downs, and how quickly the time has flown - I still remember spending our first anniversary crying in Footscray park after having a major fight with him, and refusing to pick up his 20 or so calls. And May had to come looking for me and talk some sense into my emotionally distraught self. Yet we've celebrated five more years since. One up for the Sohs!

Anyways, six days leading to our Sixth anniversary, what does he do? He starts by giving me a dark chocolate Lindt egg, and says "You're going to get six little presents each day until Saturday!" Then gives me a pack of cheese and crackers next (because he overheard me telling Ivy I hadn't had cheese in a long time - he LISTENED!), then a gorgeous teapot brooch with a floral motif, and a bunch of purple roses...and then he fell sick.

So I feel bad asking, "What about the other two pressies??!"

Basically, he's the Phil Dunphy in our relationship. Only after 12, I mean TWELVE years in our relationship did I finally get it right for his birthday this year, by getting him this:

I'd seen it in a store, thought he might like it, got it off book depository, waited 6 weeks for it to arrive, and was absolutely rapped when it turned out he'd been eyeing it for awhile after seeing it on Design Files. Two up for the Sohs!

But that still doesn't solve my dilemma. What do I get him this year??

Any ideas?

If we were in a band...

2011-04-06T23:15:00.002+10:00

...what would we call ourselves?

I'm open to suggestions.

Finders Keepers market

2011-03-30T17:32:00.001+11:00

Shots my friend Shaun took at the Finders Keepers market over the weekend...

Pucker up!

Spilt

2011-03-23T23:23:00.001+11:00

No point crying over spilt milk!

(NB: Took this awhile back in Singapore, but kept forgetting to post!)

Why do you build me up...

2011-03-10T17:44:00.000+11:00

It's been awhile since I posted, but I've been primo busy with getting stuff ready for the North Melbourne Craft markets!

As some of you know, I've been baking cupcakes steadily, since taking over from our cupcake lady at GB last May.

A gig I wanted to quit almost as soon as I took it up - I didn't know so much work was involved in making the different flavours and icing. And it consumes several hours of my time, plus I just couldn't get the swirl right!

Yet, almost a year later, I'm embarking on launching my own little bake shop!

Check it out at Buttercup Bakeshoppe.

I'm still working on the public website - the above link only works if you've logged into Facebook I think!

In the meantime, here're some pictures to drool over...

Vanilla and Chocolate Fudge buttercups

Peanut Butter and Cookies N' Cream Buttercups

Mini teal-coloured Vanilla buttercups

Red Velvet with cream cheese frosting for a friend's 21st party

And of course, the obligatory Aidan photos...hehehe...

Cheeky monkey!

The Prince among his Disney Princesses...at Mia's b'day party.

(He shoulda worn the Woody costume w/ the cowboy hat...then he'll REALLY be

channeling Clint Eastwood)

You can't come into the trampoline mum!

Back to school

2011-02-24T21:50:00.000+11:00

These past few days since returning home from SG has been a busy whirlwind.

Aidan's started in the 3 y.o. room at his regular childcare on Tuesday, but because it was just 2 days since returning I only had him in there for 3 hours, 1 of which I spent playing with him to acclimatise. But when I said I'll be back right after he's had lunch and dessert, he smiled and said, "Ok, you can go now... bye!"

And just yesterday, he started on 3 y.o. kinder at Maribyrnong Kinder with new teachers, new environment, new friends. He ran right in and starting playing with the new toys...he typed typed typed on the computer at the "office area" as he's seen me and EG do countless times and said he was sending "an emu". Then he picked up the phone and dialed Sai Yee's special number, and said "I'm calling Sai Yee now!" I sms-ed Tessa, and she quickly rang so she could speak to him and pretend he'd rung her. How cute.

However, when it was time for me to go...He DID NOT like it! At first he said I could go, but silly me I lingered in the waiting area, he wandered past and started clinging in when he realised I was really going.

It was HORRIBLE, the pains of leaving him behind again...I carried him back to the room and the teacher had to pry him off me finger by finger, and as the door shut and I walked towards my car I could hear him running back to the door with a thump and shouting "Mama!!!! Mama!!!"

OMG. It was a terrible feeling.

But when I came to pick him up he was happy playing agian. Phew!

Added to these new changes, I had two orders for this Thursday and Friday - 50 teal-coloured mini cupcakes, and a birthday red velvet cake enough to feed 60 people. It's been great getting right back into baking, and though it took me forever to get the right shade of teal (I had to refer to Wikipedia a few times), they turned out great. Well, at least the mini-cupcakes did, jury's still out on the red velvet cake! More baking tomorrow!

It doesn't get any easier

2011-02-13T03:35:00.000+11:00

The last month or so spent with family in Singapore, and on our MEGA trip to Hong Kong and Guangzhou has been A-MAZE-ING. (I really should have a separate post for that...once I get the pics up!)

I'm loving how much A loves spending time with his cousins, his grandparents, his aunts and uncles. He really thrives on the attention and love, and he's getting a little spoilt. I think today has been the 1st day in a long while when he's actually bothered to feed himself, thanks to the yummy food at a friend's house we had (his new fav. - chicken rice!)

Sadly, this time next Sat, we'll be taking the plane back to Melbourne...

SIGH. I always get to this point at this time of the year...after all the festivities and fun from a holiday in Singapore, and I'm loathed to return to Melbourne.

It's not so much the place, Singapore, but the people. I think if I were to work here, it'd be pretty hard, which accounts for the brain-drain to Perth and Melbourne.

But I'll miss my sis, my parents, my in-laws, friends, Aidan's cousins... SNIFF!

AND IT'S BEEN THIS WAY FOR THE LAST DECADE!

Geez. You'd think after 10 years I'd feel a bit more rooted in Melbourne. But this sense of displacement always hits me. We stayed because of community, of Life and support...but slowly that's evolving, changing, as friendships drift and change and the ties that bind become weaker. You've more in common (kids, families, schools) and yet, less (how you raise them, what your family looks like, what school you can afford).

The divide seems to get bigger and bigger.

I guess maybe in SG our friends and us are pretty much all on the same page. But in Melbourne, the class difference really seems a little bit more stark.

And the stuff we have in common become less, and we have less to talk about.

The common Faith Hope and Love seem so...intangible. Ephemeral.

I feel torn I guess. Love is in Singapore. Yet opportunities seem more readily available in Melbourne.

And I do often feel alone in the (our) crowd. Yet who's to say I wouldn't feel this way if we move back to SG?

There's lots to look forward to this year - Aidan's growth, new routines, new things to learn, a possible bakeshop. I just hope I don't stuff it up!

Creator. My future and destiny is in your hands.

Big fat sigh

2011-01-05T23:55:00.003+11:00

Today has been one of those days when I want to remind all my friends without kids about birth control.

Heather Armstrong

dooce.com

Today was a beautiful day. 22 degree weather, sunshine and a breeze.

We had a great morning with Milo cereal brekkie, played with our Bop It! (and scored 22 points together - teamwork!), then read about construction machines and Thomas the Tank Engine.

Aidan can read/recognise a few words other than his name now. Like THE and AND. Whenever we read books together I make an effort to point the words out and pause so he can fill in the blanks, and he's always excited when it's his turn to read THE or AND.

In the arvo we visited EG at the cafe and caught up with friends of my parents and their daughter who's planning to study here. Then visited TWO libraries and even squeezed in 20 mins at the Boathouse playground. Phew! So many activities!

By the time I got home I was ready to crash, and was thankful we had enough leftovers to constitute dinner. But I decided to get a head start on a cake I needed to make for a party this weekend.

And that's when the s**t hit the wall. LITERALLY.

Since the last time I made the cake for another party it didn't rise as much as I thought it would, I increased the amount. It filled the tin just right. And I assumed it would rise a little bit, but not by much.

20 minutes later it looked like a sludgy Jabba the Hut.

I freaked out! Then calmed down, removed the oven's base plate (because the chocolate batter had oozed out and dripped down onto it), popped the cake tin onto a baking tray (which I should have done so in the first place, duh), and shut the oven door. And since the oven temperature dropped I adjusted the timing.

But it just kept oozing and oozing! Molten lava from a chocolate volcano. My hopes of salvaging the cake melted like the village of Pompeii. ARGH.

I turned to bring Aidan up for his bath, and the sweet bunny had finished his dinner and was bringing his empty bowl to the kitchen...dropping a million grains of rice along the way, as well as around his table. But he gets a gold star for the effort!

Back to the oven to stop the batter from oozing over the side of the baking tray and onto the exposed oven base. Too late! ARGH!

This is what it looked like, fully cooked.

Jabba the Hut cake monster...nomnomnom I wanna eatchooo....

I'll see what I can fix tomorrow...sigh!

Back to Aidan...who had gone upstairs all on his own to poo! Good job!

I decided to take the vacuum out to clean up the rice mess he'd left behind, and as I was vacuuming the kitchen, I inadvertently sucked up the floor rag. ARGH. Which means to retrieve it, I'd have to dig around in the vacuum bag, pull it out covered in God knows what's already in the vac, and have it washed so I could use it again.

10 minutes later... Not so good job; he was standing outside with his underwear pulled up over his t-shirt, POO was smeared on the walls, his toothbrush cup (what the?) was hanging off the toilet paper holder.

DOUBLE TRIPLE ARGH!

Here's my theory. He'd finished his business, somehow got poo on his fingers and tried to climb up to the window sill where the toilet paper was sitting (EG'd put it there 'coz he keeps unravelling it while sitting on the dunny). He realised the mess he'd made, then dashed to grab water in his toothbrush cup to clean the mess up. Sigh...

This is what the poo mess looked like:

Just kidding!

Off to the bathroom. No recriminations. But no bedtime story either.

Patty cake patty cake

2010-12-08T21:49:00.002+11:00

The last month, and week in particular has been a flurry of baking!

Just this past week alone, I made:

Fondant cars
Fondant holly...and each berry on the holly I might add!
CHOCOLATES! (of which I'm still slowly savouring*)
Cupcakes
More cupcakes
A huge 1st birthday cake for Zachariah

* haha that's a bad pun 'coz I made them at Savour Patisserie

But no rest for the weary...more baking coming up: Iced gingerbread Christmas ornaments to give away! And maybe some banana bread loaves for the neighbours...

Another year into the new decade

2010-11-15T11:35:00.001+11:00

Soh!

I have officially pluralised my entry into my new decade. It's the thirtiesss now. Sigh!

But so much joy and accomplishment!

Thanks family. Love you all heaps.

PS. Aidan's birthday gift to me: First-time obedience. I say it, you DO IT NOW! ;p

Sweet nothings

2010-11-06T22:52:00.000+11:00

I'm more and more in love with Aidan each day.

It's taken me 3 years, but I think I've finally come to a point where I really do really LOVE being a mum.

First I was afraid. Then I resented it. Then I became angry, and regretful for what I felt I was missing out - a career, accolades, being productive.

At the beginning of this year, I made peace with it. I told God, I'm ok with waiting...

At the end of this year, I'm actually happy.

There are frustrating days of course. Many many ones, like last Wednesday when he decided poo is a great substitute for crayons and proceeded to decorate my walls.

But there are also days that make me laugh and cherish him all the more... like when he decided poo is a great substitute for crayons and proceeded to decorate my walls.

Now, as I stumble into bed after a long day, all I really want is to curl up in a ball next to him, and hug him til we both fall asleep to the sound of his soft breathing.

NB: Just as I typed the last paragraph, my door softly creaked open and Aidan peeked in! It's 10.45pm!!
"I'm not sleepy mum.
"What are you doing here bubs?"
He climbed into bed next to me, lay down on my chest and said, "But I want to sleep with you mum."
Bliss!!

Tell me what you think

2010-10-04T10:38:00.000+11:00

I've been seriously getting stuck into all 4 seasons of Mad Men, and the beauty they present. Fabulous clothes, fabulous life.

Just read this article this morning.

It is her boredom and resentment that makes her appear cold, the adjective used for Betty perhaps more than any other. There is no doubt she is a cold character, but the apparent irksomeness of that trait to a modern audience is interesting. Perhaps we still struggle to come to terms with the idea of a mother whose heart isn't really in it; who, although she may love her children in the broad sense, resents the limitations the role thrusts on her and finds it all … well, tedious.

In the last three years I've had to struggle with the dual role of wife and mother. And while I relish the playtime Aidan and I have together, last year, 2009, was a constant battleground to find meaning and purpose in what I do. Quiet domesticity revolving around my child just didn't suit. I resented the confines of my four walls, quietly raging in the cage of my being.

I confess, I am not the perfect mother. (Not that anyone expects that of me! Haha...)

I'm hardly calm under pressure, and a 3 y.o.'s antics can often drive me up the wall.

I resonate with Betty's "Go watch TV. Go upstairs and play, get out of my way, I'm BUSY!" mentality.

I can, however, say my heart IS in it, because there is genuine warmth and affection. But it really wasn't until late last year when I found purposeful work that I felt whole, fulfilled.

I can imagine why Sylvia Plath stuffed her head into the oven (no disrespect) if all she could fathom was the endless tedium of cleaning, washing, caring, being responsible. Betty has the luxury of domestic help, but is still bored.

Living without purpose, how boring! The endless routine of self-indulgence then guilt and loathing.

The irony is, while Plath and Draper were stuck because of their lack of choice, I felt stuck because of my plethora of choices.

Should I work or stay home? If I worked, will I do my child a disservice? Yet if I didn't, would my internal frisson boil over and burn him as a result? How about I do both? Yet what job can I even do? Who would even hire me?

On and on it goes, the internal monologue of fear.

This year, 2010, presented a slightly different picture...I had work. I started to make friends outside of my usual circle, I found new interests in vintage fashion, continued my Italian class, started baking again. And selling them cupcakes!

While life's yet to reach perfection (and I doubt it ever will!) my struggles are different. Happier struggles, if that's possible.

The sight of an empty and clean kitchen sink brings me PROFOUND joy. I don't know why.

And onward I go...

From the mouth of babes...

2010-09-24T22:55:00.000+10:00

He was SO adorable yesterday when I came back late from watching a film (Italian film fest underway...woohoo!).

The garage door opening and closing must have woken him up. He stood on the stairs, bleary-eyed, his hair standing, in his Babyjo pjs....I picked him up and cuddled him and returned him to his bed. Patted him awhile, then left.

And just the other day, he said to EG, "Dada, I want to talk to you."

EG: "What is it?"

"I love you Dada, because you come home to me and mama."

Such cognoscence.

All grown up

2010-09-14T21:02:00.000+10:00

This has gotta be my favourite photo of Aidan right now. It says so much!

Thanks Michelle. It was SO lovely meeting you and can't wait to hang out again!

The gift of giving

2010-09-11T22:42:00.001+10:00

Here's something we sent out along with Aidan's invite for his b'day party next week:

Hi Everyone!

Thanks for RSVPing to Aidan's invite, I can't believe how time flies! Our little young 'un has turned 3...wow! The last few years have been an amazing journey for us and we can't wait to celebrate it with you next Saturday!

Some of you have asked what to get Aidan, and EG and I both feel he's been blessed above and beyond with gifts already, from his grandparents and all who love him.

But what we can't give him are values, especially learning the value of giving, of selflessness. So this year, we thought it'd be a great idea to have everyone teach him that with their gifts!

This year, we're asking those of you who want to bless Aidan for his birthday (absolutely no obligation of course!) to donate to Invisible Children or to Watoto's Project Gulu.

These two charities have weighed heavily on our hearts as a family, as they seek to rehabilitate former child soldiers in Uganda. They're doing amazing work there (watch the video here) rescuing these children and providing communities, education, protection and lots more to rebuild the nation.

So we hope that while we celebrate one child's blessings here in Melbourne, we can also raise awareness and love for another child in Africa who needs it. Aidan mightn't understand it all now, but we hope that over the years as we peek back on his 3rd birthday, we can teach him the value of selflessness. He already understands that there are other children in other countries who don't have a mummy or daddy who love him as much as we do, especially when we pray for them before bed!

And if you choose to bless Aidan this way, please do sign the card on Saturday!

Looking forward to celebrating with you!

Love,
Saz, EG and Aidan

And if you feel moved to do so, join us on this effort too!

He turns 3!!

2010-09-09T23:31:00.000+10:00

WOW!

Last year I turned the big THREE O.

Tomorrow, my boy turns THREE.

Time just really flies!

He talks so much now, and sings songs I've never heard before! (Like the one about 5 currant buns this morning...I think he learnt that at school.)

At 2 years 364 days, he loves Buzz Lightyear, his Mama and Dadda, is super expressive, and has boundless energy.

He just started his 3 y.o. swim class on Monday (which he was really afraid to because the teacher and classmates were new and I wasn't in the pool with him) but he braved it, what a champ!

And tomorrow we'll celebrate his birthday at school with his friends, and a low-key birthday dinner tomorrow night. (The par-tay's next Sat...will post more on our ideas for that soon...)

To infinity, and beyond!

He literally said, "PEW PEW PEW!!"

Sheriff Woody!

(The costume, courtesy of Ivy, is reversible)

The nerd pirate Aidan...looks strangely familiar...

Can't wait to give you a birthday cuddle tomorrow! And because you're finally a big boy, hopefully you'll STOP COMING INTO MY ROOM IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT!

Happy belated B'day Kaofu Aaron

2010-08-30T17:35:00.002+10:00

What a way to start the week

2010-08-30T17:15:00.001+10:00

Aidan's been SO full of wise sayings lately...
"Mum", he said, gravely to my ear this morning, "it's time for you to get up. It's time for breakfast."

And just now, after his bath, and he PACKED UP HIS BATH TOYS ON HIS OWN:

"Thank you for bathing me mum!"

What a champ!

Then, right after his bath and getting dressed, he started running around like a rock star singing "It's Dirt Girl World...." (the theme song from a TV series), with his hands outstretched like he just struck a guitar chord. Too cute! I asked him to sing it again for me, and he did this:

Cupping my face with his two small hands, he grinned and said, I KID YOU NOT, "Oh sweetie, I can't sing it anymore."

OH MY LORDY. This makes up for earlier in the day when he weed in his pants twice and poo-ed - a gross mushy lump in his underwear, which just as I was about to dump into the loo to flush away, plopped onto the rug in the toilet (which is why he needed a bath). ARGH....

Yes. Great start to the week.

Friends

2010-08-14T23:25:00.004+10:00

It's been a whirlwind 4 weeks as we had the Foos staying with us and Kienan being Aidan's new best bud! They look for each other each morning and play great...that is until 5 mins later when one's crying coz the other's hit him. Kidsssssssssss....

But we bid adieu to them today, *sob*!!! It's been a terrific time together, and I'm going to miss all our late night chats and snacking on cheese, tim-tams, wine, teas (altho my waistline will thank me!) The house is so quiet and lonely...only the refrain of cheering coming from EG playing Winning 11 on the XBox (only thing missing is the slap of high-fives between EG and Kev...withdrawal symptoms methinks...)

We will miss you fondly, Foos!

Their trip here has been pretty fruitful (judging by all the luggage they had to lug home!) But I reckon both little boys have learnt much from each other, like K's learnt to eat a bigger variety of foods and fruits and sleep well, and Aidan's finally getting the hang of toilet training.

YES! Toilet training! He actually knows when to go to pee when the urge strikes; I think going cold turkey (for me) and putting him in underwear helped...just a month ago he was oblivious to his wet pants and undies, but now he can actually hold his bladder and rush to the toilet!

And TODAY! A poo in the toilet when he needed to (he used to do it only when we put him on, but today he said "Mama, I need to poo!") I'm really hoping that this is the start of a brand new beginning and the end of expensive nappies (will start training earlier for the next kid...cheaper!!)

Anyhoos, here're a couple pics from Aidan and Kienan's time together...and their favourite Buzz Lightyear (they each have one, with their names under Buzz's "spaceboot", just like in the movie!)

Kienan's favourite pose - sticking his tongue out

I can't believe how our kids are now friends. Charmaine, Kev and I have known each other since WE were Kienan and Aidan's age (maybe a bit older...5 years?) in GMC Sunday School (I met EG much later, although Kev and EG met in Sunday School about age 5 too.) Now it's our kids' turns!

It's amazing isn't it, the journey of friendship? I'm just so grateful for the history and moments we've shared through the years, and look forward to more to come! From holidays to Desaru and Malacca that Maine's and my parents brought us on when we were little, to the Penang church camp that the four of us really bonded (four friends becoming two couples eventually!!), to now our 2 kids being friends...even though we're separated by seas. It just really shows how God's hand is really upon all our lives.

L-R: Random person, Cheryl, Tessa, Joanna, Uncle Lawrence, Me, Charmaine

Jokes aside

2010-07-23T08:55:00.002+10:00

Aidan's been learning to tell knock knock jokes lately, and I could only supply the couple that I vaguely remember. For example:

Me: KNOCK KNOCK!
Aidan: Who's there?
Me: Lettuce!
Aidan: Lettuce who??
Me: Lettuce in, it's cold outside!

Then it's his turn to tell one.

Aidan: KNOCK KNOCK!
Me: Who's there?
Aidan: TRUCK!!
Me: (ooh, that's so cute!) Truck who??
Aidan: TRUCK IN, IT'S COLD OUTSIDE!!!

Hmm...methinks he's yet to get the hang of it...

If you can stomach this...

2010-07-11T00:28:00.000+10:00

Some exciting news! Aidan spent the day at school yesterday in underpants! He insisted that he didn't want to wear the nappies, but wanted underwear like a big boy!

And today Kev and Charmaine arrived with Kienan and Jonah. Happy times ahead as we learn to live and share our lives together over the next month! :-))

In other news, this article is so poignant, nuanced and HEARTBREAKING. About parents forgetting their kids in cars...and how it ends in tragedy. Reminds me of when Aidan locked himself accidentally in the car in our garage before, along with my bag and handphone!

Sigh. Having kids in your life bring so much joy, and so much heartache sometimes, whether of your own doing or not...

Model child 2

2010-07-07T17:50:00.004+10:00

OK! So it's official, Aidan's now signed up with Brats Models.

We took awhile to decide, but they seemed to be one of the bigger agencies around, and the guy has had heaps of experience, so we really do hope Aidan gets some work out of this!

In the meantime, enjoy some pics we took over the weekend, hanging out with the Chews.

Family photo!

Cheeesssee!!

Chew family, with their latest addition, Noah!

Hmm...maybe that's where Aidan gets his cheesy smile from...

I want chips...PWEEASSSEEE!!!

And today...we made sushi for lunch! Aidan loves his sushi, especially the vegetarian rolls we get at food courts. Today we made salmon onigiri!! Aidan had a lot of fun pressing the rice molds and popping the sushi out.

Start with some steamed rice - I used less water so it'll be more sticky

Add some onigiri seasoning

Some sushi molds - Teddy, little boy and little girl.

Stuff mold with rice

Pop the lid on and squish real tight

Pop the rice out

Ta-DAAAHHH!!

Yummers!!

Nomnomnomnom....

I LOVE Sushi!!

Lately...

2010-06-29T10:17:00.000+10:00

Sorry for the lack of updates lately, but at least there's Twitter and FB to keep you guys informed of what's been happening at the Soh household ;p Will just write a quick one of what's been happening; forgive the 'dry' writing...

SO! Quick news, Aidan did a POO in the toilet ALL BY HIMSELF the other day! Woohoo!

Skip this part if you don't want all the gross details:

EG left him on the can and closed the door, sat in the hallway to wait (Aidan told him to 'step outside' haha) and promptly fell asleep (?!) I came up to check and lo and behold, after 15 mins he'd done it! After a quick wipe, he got a reward sticker AND a prize from the prize box. Here's to hoping it continues regularly...

We fell pretty sick over the weekend. Aidan caught conjunctivitis AND a chesty cough/cold, which passed on to me by Sunday as he's been making a habit of crawling into my bed in the middle of the night and coughing into my face! Hate being sick, but I'm hoping lots of water will help. At least last night, when I returned him to bed he stayed there after I patted him for a bit. "Goodnight mum," he said.

His imagination's been really taking off, and we've been inventing and telling each other stories lately...he's really into astronauts and rocket ships, and loves Buzz Lightyear! We've just bought Buzz for him during the toy sale and keeping it for his b'day, although I hope we can hold out because his DAD can't wait to open it...I can see the longing in EG's eyes...tsktsk. "I've always wanted a Buzz!" - this, coming from a 32 year-old!!

Our friends Kev and Charmaine are visiting in a couple of weeks and bringing the kids! Woohoo, really looking forward to it!! It'll be rather cozy over here for awhile, and Winter is COLD, but it's SO nice to have people visiting. Can't wait!

In the meantime, here's a couple photos from our church's Annual Dinner on Saturday! I was hosting it again, this time with Carissa, and it was SO MUCH FUN!

Carissa and I at the start of the night.

That's my mum's kebaya btw!

I did the 1940s hair and tucked the kebaya shirt in.

Everyone said I looked EXACTLY like my mum!

Side view...yah lah...Poser...

Hmmm...not sure what I'm saying/doing here.

Us dressed up for the Gameshow segment...

I was Candelabra from Kuching, she was Bridget (formerly Xiao Mei...)

Yup...we're a couple of crazy chicks.

You should've been there, it was a laugh-a-minute riot!

Criss was SO FUNNY and WITTY...we're a great combo ;p

The final contestants all lined up on stage

Candelabra torturing poor Jules...

Final two left...Krystal and Kev! Kev won!!

With the gorgeous Sam Su, whose laughter I could hear all the way on stage!

And my beautiful boys. (Candelabra: "SO HAMSUM AH!")

Hmm...guess that's where he gets his smile from - his Dad!

(You can see his left eye was a little red by the end of the night :-((( )

Stage mum

2010-06-11T23:26:00.000+10:00

So! An update on Aidan's "modeling career".

He's gone for an interview with Bubblegum Kids, and their keen to have him on board. He's got another few lined up next week, and in July, but I guess the big question we're considering is, which agency will give him the best opportunities?

Mind you, it is NOT CHEAP to join an agency, what with marketing and portfolio fees, it's upwards of $400 a year! The bigger agencies charge more, but I'm not sure if that means he gets more exposure, and better photos (they make you decide that day and take the photos immediately). Of course, their client base may be wider too.

Boutique agencies may have a more personalised service, and market him better...but will it be better for his career long term? I don't know!

Gosh. I really sound like I'm overthinking it aren't I. Just praying for wisdom to make the right decision I guess! He's got such an energy and loves performing, I know I'm biased but I really think he can be a star (or in his own words, a ROCK STAR). Or maybe I'm just living out my dreams through him? ;p

Model child

2010-06-03T11:13:00.002+10:00

Some recent photos we took. Here's Aidan in his super comfy BabyJo organic bamboo cotton PJs!

Some shots taken in Auction Rooms in North Melbourne, and just outside:

One of my fav photos...the little marlin on his back

I've also recently submitted his photos to a couple of agencies, to see if he's suitable for some work, ever since he got that Heinz print ad done. Fingers crossed! We'll see how he goes...I don't want to end up being a pushy stage mum, but if it's something he'll enjoy, and he can start saving for his college fund or a trip abroad when he's older, why not?

History in the making

2010-05-29T23:26:00.002+10:00

My sis unearthed some treasure gems recently, and this is one of my favourites:

It's a picture of my parents taken when they were in their early 20s, at Kota Tinggi. No wonder they kept bringing us there when we were kids!!

I've hardly seen any photos of them that young, but this picture speaks volumes. Their joy, vitality, YOUTH in it's glory! And check out my dad's abs!!

Wow. Not to brag, but my parents were hot! (Hey, their kids ain't that bad lookin' either...)

And look at them now...still happy as ever:

Aidan's one lucky grandkid!!

Mum's night out!!

2010-05-28T13:33:00.002+10:00

Had THE MOST AMAZING NIGHT yesterday in a really long while.

We had the opportunity to watch a pre-screening of SATC 2, before it's even released WORLDWIDE.

Add to that, the GOLD CLASS EXPERIENCE.

We're talking about:

Cocktails on arrival.
Canapes.
Champagne AND wine (yes, more alcohol!)
Luxury reclining chairs (with storage for your bags and coats to boot!)
Gorgeous meal (I had the mini burgers with chips and tomato relish, Criss had the waldorf salad)
Free-flow of drinks.
Choc tops!!

I was in UTTER bliss. The best part for me really had to be getting to EAT HOT FOOD while WATCHING THE MOVIE. I never get to do that, because EG hates the smell. But I love to, because it's really two sensory experiences in one - laughter and digestion. Who says I can't multi-task?!!

As for the movie? Better than the first, I feel, it's really fabulous frivolous fun, you don't go in expecting deep and meaningful discussions on life (although the TV series did throw up some gems. SATC really does have smart writing, even EG agrees.) But it was the whole experience that really did it for me...dressing up, having a night out, eating, drinking...coming home to an amazing family! ;p

*Spoiler alert*

Watch out for the poignant scene where Charlotte and Miranda drink to the difficulties of being a mum. I toasted them whenever Miranda said "SIP!!"

In case you're wondering, my shoes matched the

sparkle in the above poster. *bling bling*!!

Watch the trailer here

A little late but...HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!

2010-05-21T15:05:00.000+10:00

Happy Birthday Papa, hope you liked the video we made you last week!

Will try to upload it on the blog or something...

Love you heaps!!

But...whyyyyyyy???

2010-05-16T22:36:00.000+10:00

Love this quote I got off Rozz.

“The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new.”

This week has been the busiest and most tiring in a long while. Yet fulfilling.

Worked through the weekend and I'm just so terribly glad to return home and have the bright shiny smiley faces of hubby and bubba. Even if I still have to cook!!

Sometimes it seems that regardless who brings home the bacon, it's the wife and mother who has to cook it! Meaning, even though EG has a long day at work (12-hr days on his feet everyday), and even though it has been draining for me as well caring for a rambunctious 2 y.o., I still pick myself up, greet him with a smile, cook (wish I can say I enjoy it a lot more), clean-up, AND still head to work after. (Which is what I usually do on Mon nites).

Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining.

Just whingeing. ;p

My days are now filled with:

Work, usually once every weekend (if I'm lucky!)
Drilling Italian verbs into my brain each Tuesday
Caring for and picking up after Aidan
Caring for and picking up after EG
Playdates (which are TIRING I tell you!)
Kids Church volunteering
Groceries (for home and Guava Bean)
Housework
ZUMBA!!!
And, coming soon...cupcake baking for GB.

But I am still grateful. That I have the time and energy for all this!

Now...if only Aidan will sleep through the night and stop coming into my room! This transition from cot to big-boy bed HAS NOT BEEN FUN! Been rather sleep-deprived...

YHWH

2010-05-16T21:19:00.002+10:00

Looks like church praise has sunk in - Aidan sang "He shall reign forever" on his own! :-))

He shall reign, forever
He shall reign, forever
He shall reign, forever, forever...

Parenting?

2010-05-03T12:51:00.001+10:00

Here's a little video I did recently for our church's Young Families Clan Sunday.

It was pretty fun, and Aidan did a great cameo too! :-)

Enjoy!

NB: Aidan really likes this performing thing I reckon...just now, he called himself "Rock Star Aidan", grabbed his stool and ukelele and performed an entire rendition of Jesus Loves Me to me, Pooh bear and Poku the Panda who were sitting in a row on his bed. Too cute!!

Back to reality

2010-04-27T23:18:00.001+10:00

Things since returning back to Melbourne have taken a toll for the worst.

Let me explain.

Before we left for Singapore, Aidan had his cot, he slept on his own, and though he may occasionally wake up in the middle of the night, he'd generally pop back to sleep after a little resettling, or if I'm too tired, I'd bring him into bed with me.

However, being pampered as such in Singapore, he got to STAY UP LATE (til 1am once!) when he had sleep-overs at my parent's. And he got cuddled and squished and patted to bed. He was literally LOVED to sleep.

But now that we're back and he's been promoted to his Big Boy Bed (Dada surprised us both with an ebay purchase), he can't/doesn't want to sleep on his own, he needs me to sleep with him, he needs the hall light on, he needs the door open, he needs he needs he needs! Sometimes I find myself squished diagonally in bed with him at 3am in the morning! (The other night, he rolled over and actually FELL OFF THE BED!! His only words were, "Mum! Where's my pillow?!")

Needless to say, I'm a grumpy mummy.

I'm hoping he'll adjust soon, it's been a week, but there seem to be some positive improvements. It's just that all the whining and negotiations we have before I can actually leave his room is really annoying!!

On another note, his toilet training seems to be taking a back seat with all these huge adjustments in his life right now (back from hols, new bed etc.) I've ordered a toilet training pack from the internet out of desperation, and I'm hoping it'll teach me how to properly train him!

*Fingers crossed!*

UPDATE: He went down for a nap on his own this arvo! WOOHOOO!!! Could be we spend quite a bit of time together this morning playing and reading. Whatever it is, hope it continues!

Happy 5th Anniversary!

2010-04-10T17:44:00.004+10:00

So! Can ya believe it? It's been Five whole years already!

And we got a chance to celebrate it here in Singapore, with our friends. And thanks to David from Food for Thought, who pulled together a mega amazing meal for the whole bunch of us, it was made even more special!

Here're some pics thanks to Ami:

The Frisbee of Lurvvvee....

(that's how we met, playing Frisbee at church camp 17 years ago!)

The promise I made 5 years ago at our wedding
(via Sarah McLachlan)

Proven false MANY times over!

The thank you card I'm holding is also a placecard

with our guests' names printed on the other side

Our guests...friends who have journeyed with us over the years

The wonderful David from FFT (extreme left), who put all this together!

No pic of Ami, our photographer! :(

Delicious Noms!! I especially love the prawn linguine!

And...the pièce de résistance!

The dessert tasting plate David created and designed from scratch. Each guest had his/her own platter, and we started from the spoon (quenelle of vanilla sorbet topped with espresso granita) and moved either clockwise or anti-clockwise round the plate.

And 'coz EG loves coffee, and I love chocolate we had a lovely bit of both on the platter!

I chose to end off with the raspberry scone, which added a light refreshing finish to the density of the molten chocolate mousse with white chocolate base, and the triple-threat - banana, chocolate, peanut butter caramel trifle. TO DIE FOR!!

Suffice to say, it was a VERY satisfying meal. So much so, we eschewed our dinner reservation at Il Lido on Sentosa!!* (family had given us a gift - 1N stay at Siloso Beach Reort!)

Will post more pics from our camera soon.

* We ended up eating at the food court after watching Clash of the Titans - all action, gore and a bit of a anti-climactic ending. Enemy vanquished too quickly!

SURPRISE!!

2010-04-05T01:22:00.002+10:00

Now that's we've landed, we can say, SURPRISE!! We're back in Singapore for a short visit!

Oooh...so totally looking forward to the catching up and hanging out with friends. But less eating. Must...eat...less...to...fit...pants....

See y'all soon!!

R(A)

2010-03-19T10:24:00.002+11:00

More poo talk! Finally he's done a little one in the toilet the other day! When I offered him his choice of chocolate or gingerbread men as a reward, he told me, pointedly I might add, "2 gingerbread men, and 1 chocolate mum!"

Hmmm.... greedy munchkin.

Anyhoos! We've been quite busy lately, what with all the activities and work I've been up to. At least we got a chance to bake together yesterday, using our favourite recipe! Haha, this time he sat on the counter and stirred up the batter, along with helping me to tip the flour and sugar in. Yummers! Although he did sneak a lot of chocolate chips into his mouth while I wasn't watching... tsk tsk...

On a different topic altogether, I've been having more surreal dreams, enough to rival my friend Ami's. This time, John Mayer made another guest appearance, and I think *ahem* we were in love. But it was "Room for Squares" John Mayer mind you, not the recent bad-boy incarnation (I mean, we've all read the recent P-boy Interview --> warning, this links to an unsavoury website so please avert your children's eyes...)

I told all this to EG, and as usual, he laughed. 'Twas a nice dream though, one more notch on my celebrity dream bedpost (altho this is JM's 2nd appearance, heehee!)

Holidays are here again

2010-03-11T12:33:00.007+11:00

It's been awhile since we've last blogged...that's because so much has happened!

The grandparents came and went, along with Aidan's Kao Gong (Great Uncle) Yeong, Kao Fu (Uncle) Gideon and Sai Yee (Aunty) Tessa.

And the car's been horribly dimpled by the storm on Sat.

Anyhoos! Thanks to the new blogger interface, I can load my pics way quicker, so... ENJOY!

Aidan jing cha to his grandparents.
Couldn't spend CNY in SG, so they brought CNY to us!
(Complete with cheesy music and decor)

Collecting ang pow from Kao Gong

Our daytrips!

At the lavender fields in Daylesford's Sault

Chomping down his scone at Miss Marples in Mt. Dandenong. LICK! He said...

Outside GB Southbank...Dada's gonna make us a coffee!

Mama and Sai Yee are complete poseurs. But isn't Sai Yee gorgeous?!

Our attempt at the Toyota ad in the middle of the Brunswick St. Fest

Lady on the left! Cannot make it lah!

Speaking of posers....

Whaddup yo'

Kao Fu Gideon's turn. I think Aidan looks hotter, no?

Or maybe Mama?
(Greedy much?)

Nah... Aidan's way cooler!

Especially with his "cigar"

Kao Fu Gideon helping him start up his car.

With the Lims at Mart

Hail stones on the roof of the NGV later that day.

So loud, it drew more onlookers than the exhibits!

A taste of the Epic Flood...
Good thing we were on the opp. side of the road & could maneuver onto the M1.
(Never thought I'd ever say this, but the West Gate was jam-free!!)

So much has happened in just ONE week!

Bye bye paci!

2010-02-23T18:58:00.003+11:00

OOOH! And before I forget, we've finally weaned him off the pacifier!

It wasn't as hard as we thought it'd be, EG just said "Oh, we can't find it!"

He actually had a couple of days like this in SG last trip, but we hadn't tried it since coming home.

But yay! Hooray. It's done. My son won't be a social outcast.

That said, I'm grateful for the many years of sleep-FILLED nights I got because of this gem. Even though all the books and people said it'd be hard to wean him off later. HAH. Phooey to you, know-it-alls!

RIP, Aidan's paci.

Toilet training part 3

2010-02-23T18:32:00.007+11:00

*Warning* DON'T READ THIS AND EAT AT THE SAME TIME.

The mundane routine of our day can be often broken by a random gesture. POO ALERT!

At any given time, in any part of the world, there are 2 significant acts of purging a human body makes.

#1 A wee
#2 A poo

Ah, but once you enter the surreal world of baby love, you will acquaint yourself (and rather quickly I might add!) with a third form of expulsion.

#3 A poo EXPLOSION. When everything just DRIPS OUT.

This last one occurs especially after servings of fruit and vegies, like yummy tomatoes and peas and oranges...you get the idea. It's the perfect storm of bladder release meeting regular doses of roughage.

And for the last 2.5 years I've been dealing with said #3s off and on, but with Aidan being toilet-trained I hope I'm nearing the end of the mess that is a dirty diaper. Like, just DO IT IN THE TOILET ALREADY! I mean, you know it's coming, just tell me, and you get a chocolate reward (same colour what!) after! How hard a concept is it to master?

Case in point. Aidan paused in the middle of playing with his Lego and said, "Mama? Don't check me ok?"

"Sorry?"

"Don't check me ok?"

"Er ok..."

(Lightbulb clicks in my head)

"Did you just poo-poo?" I go check his bum. No poo.

(5 minutes later)

(A look on his face that I can only describe as um... strained.)

"MAMA! DON'T CHECK ME OK?!!!"

(This scenario carried on the next morning when he started thrashing about in his sleep shouting "Don't check me! Don't check me!!!") Methinks he has a morbid fear of nappy changes, no?

Anyhoos...here's to hoping he adapts soon. Wees aren't a problem (in fact he forces himself to pee to get chocolate rewards!) it's the #2s and #3s we're working on.

Plus, I'm running out of latex gloves.

Birthday Wishes

2010-02-17T09:49:00.005+11:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AH BOH !!!

Love and blessings from your favourite (only) nephew.

Aidan's first haircut - VIDEO

2010-02-11T13:35:00.003+11:00

Finally! We got ahold of the video of Aidan's 1st Professional haircut, taken last year.

Voila! Take note especially to what he says at 0:33.

Toilet training part 2

2010-02-04T11:33:00.002+11:00

I've been taking heaps of pics of Aidan with our new camera, but I've yet to put them up. I will soon, I promise. As soon as I find my card-reader!

On another note, toilet training is well underway, and bubba's received numerous stars over the last week, and chocolate rewards, for 'going' in the toilet. Weeheee! Of course we've had a couple accidents along the way, but so far, none on the couch!

Anyhooos, just a short update, will post pics soon!

New Year New Look

2010-01-27T12:18:00.002+11:00

Hope you like it!

Small shout-out to anyone who has the time and inclination. Our blog needs a new mast-head, so if you're willing and able to do it for GREAT publicity on this blog (heeheehee), please let me know if you can help!

Toilet training part 1

2010-01-27T11:46:00.004+11:00

Now that's it's the new year, I'm officially starting to toilet-train Aidan.

Officially, I say, because last year we tried, but not fully consistently, mostly on account of me. I wasn't very consistent at putting him on the dunny and asking him to go. Or when I did, he was more interested in playing with the toilet paper roll and flushing than really with the actual business of going.

Yesterday, however, was a semi-improvement. We finally bought some underwear at Best & Less (for only $1! I bought TWELVE pairs!!) and the day before I'd let him go nappy-less and he did a wee on the floor (and then the rug later in the evening!). It served its purpose - to show him the consequence of not going in the toilet. Of course if we're out of the house the nappies go on...don't want accidents in public!

Anyways, back to yesterday. I'd popped him into the bathtub for his shower, and asked him to go. And he did! On command! And he could control it! Stop and go, stop and go... there was a lot of cheering going on in that bathroom I tell ya! And a chocolate mini-muffin reward. And this morning I popped on his new underwear, which turned out to be too big, so I had to clip it together with a BULLDOG CLIP.

Proof

Hey I can't help it if he's a lot tinier than the ang moh kids around here ok?! It's the smallest size they had!

NB: Routines are finally back in order, he's back to feeding himself again, and eating the foods he used to eat (rejected bread and all his favourite stuff in Singapore!) HOWEVER....he's still waking TWICE a night, once at 2am, once at 5am...argffff

Duck Tales (woo ooo!)

2010-01-13T22:00:00.006+11:00

Tuesday was particularly eventful - we spent the morning touring Singapore uniquely (haha) from the river's point of view.

We got to see the Flyer unobstructed, the Merlion, the impending IR... and Aidan was bored bored BORED throughout the whole experience!

I think he had the most fun when we disembarked and he got to play with his duck whistle (which really sounds like a duck! A German tourist standing behind my Dad at the counter asked him to blow the whistle and promptly bought it for...HUNTING!!)

*grumble* I could've saved the $$ spent on him and just bought the duck whistle straightaway from the counter. That said, my parents and I really enjoyed the tour, and our tour guide was pretty entertaining, throwing bits of useful information interlaced with historical fact. Like how the Swissotel Stamford's (formerly the Westin) the world's tallest building...20 years ago. And how the record holder for its vertical marathon last year of 1336 stairs clocked in at 6 mins 46 seconds. SIX minutes!! That's faster than the LIFT!!

I love the prize though - you get return tickets to the Big Apple, with an invitation to climb the Empire State Building. As the guide campily proclaimed, "So yes, ladies and gentlemen, your prize for climbing a really tall building...is to climb another really tall building!!"

My little ducky's big adventure:

All aboard!!

*Gasp* You mean we sit in it and not eat it?!

Off we go with our fellow tourists

Finally! A clear view of Aidan's favourite Flyer

And the Merlion
(NB: I only just found out what it means "to merlion" thanks to hubby
regaling me with story of NS drinking days) .

"This is my country...this is my land..."

Quack quack!!

Wiley coyote

2010-01-06T19:45:00.004+11:00

Aidan set this up this morning, while playing Lego with Gran.

He said, "This is Mama, Dada, Aidan and Baby!!"

Hmmm.... methinks he's dropping A MAJOR HINT. Did somebody put him up to this??!!

Innocent eyes...bah!

Tube talk

2010-01-06T12:39:00.006+11:00

Our morning ritual of breakfast has taken a new turn, with Aidan rejecting all bread and bread-like products. This means he won't eat sandwiches, buns, not even the chocolate-swirled ones!

Added to that, he hops onto his grandparent's couch and says, "I want TV!"

And apparently he has an aversion to any forms of encouragement given on-screen:

Ellen: Blah blah blah....hooray!!! (Audience claps)

Aidan (sipping his Milo): No clapping! Nooo clapping!

Me: It's all right, they're just cheering for the people on stage.

Ellen: blah blah blah....chicken! (audience cheers AND claps)

Aidan: Stop it! Stop clapping!!!

In conclusion, all he ate this morning were the dried berries from my cereal, his Milo, and a small bite of his peanut butter-and-chocolate-swirl bread. That's it.

Good grief, which kid in his right mind REJECTS PEANUT BUTTER-AND-CHOCOLATE-SWIRL BREAD?!!

Sleuthing: The Mystery of the Sleepwalker

2010-01-03T01:43:00.005+11:00

Dear Aidan

You did the most adorable thing tonight. Dada and I came home from a movie (Sherlock Holmes, a pretty enjoyable Robert Downey Jr-Jude Law brom-com action detective noir film - how many genres could Guy Ritchie fit into it?!) to find you snuggled up under the covers, in OUR bed!

I think you did that last night too when you mysteriously appeared beside me in the middle of the night. I had no recollection of you crying out, or calling me, or even me lifting you up to sleep with me. I deduce you must have climbed up on your own!

I love snuggling with you, hugging you and cuddling you. I wish you'll stay little forever.

Love,
Mama

Homeward bound

2009-12-27T21:09:00.002+11:00

We're having a really terrific time here in Singapore, eating and catching up with people and spending quality time with family. And Christmas, oh Christmas!

I have to say, there's definitely more of a Christmas atmosphere here than in Melbourne. The extravagant lights, throngs of people, piped Christmas music, Christmas cheer, it all brings back a rush of memories and revelry.

Some pics via Just-whatever.com

Lunch was special at my family's where everyone got together to swap presents and stories (Uncle Y's being the most outrageous as usual, something about his Chinese god-daughter hooking up with an Angolese diplomat's son and bearing his child. And its political/legal/moral ramifications.) And we ate and ate and ate.

I think my parents are really enjoying the time with their little grandson - they've been babysitting him, and watched him after the party as we went to catch Avatar 3D. (Pretty amazing movie, a wholly created world! [My hip parents had already caught it before we did - Dad was proudly announcing that he got to watch it on his Senior Citizens pass - just $4 only okay?!]) It's great to see Mum and Dad pouring so much joy and seeing it reciprocated, with Aidan saying "I want to go Por Por's house" (to see/play with the fish in the fake pond apparently) pretty often, or "Por Por where?" Seems like my parents' doting have paid off handsomely. ;p

Of course he's also been having heaps of fun with his cousins and living with Gran and Grandad too - who've been spoiling him with lotsa treats.

Anyhoos! Aidan's much needed haircut - click to see a bigger pic:

A New Addition

2009-12-09T22:23:00.003+11:00

On Monday, we welcomed to the world a brand new little brother for Aidan.

No, don't jump your guns, IVY and STEVIE had the baby, not me! Lil' Zacharaiah!! We've been eagerly anticipating your arrival, and now here, you are, you gorgeous thing!

Brilliant thing is, Aidan's been completely enamoured with lil' Z. He's been kissing him, patting him, and telling him off like a big brother does ("No more crying Zachariah!"). And this morning he said "Mama, mama, help me mama! Mama, mama, help!" To which I frantically replied, "What's wrong??!!", and he said, "No, Zachariah cry, 'Mama, help!'" How CUTE!!

And then tonight, just before bed, he copied my exercises! Leg lifts, tricep dips and star toe-touches. It was adorable! "Mama, Aidan try!" I should've taken pictures. But I've taken heaps of videos lately (like one this morning, singing another rousing rendition of Twinkle Star, this time with diamond fingers...will upload it soon!)

What a cutie!

Another milestone!

2009-12-03T20:40:00.002+11:00

Aidan can wear his pants on his own now!! Woohoo! Just taught him to pop down, put one leg in, then the other, and voila!

So proud of the little bubs. Now if he can only stay put and do a number on the toilet, instead of rolling the toilet paper around, or asking me to sing Around the Mulberry Bush over and over again.

Aidan on the "phone"

2009-11-26T12:53:00.005+11:00

The funniest thing the other day, he picked up our XBox remote control and started talking into it like a telephone.

Conversation was varied, ranging from ordering Chicken & Pasta, to asking Guo Jin about drums. Hilarious!

Here it is; it's pretty long though, and a tad boring towards the end, but still pretty funny:

Thing is, Aidan LOVES watching himself on this video (or any video of himself for that matter). Quite hiao lah. Haha!! He can watch it over and over again!

The Big Three O

2009-11-20T12:06:00.004+11:00

Aidan fed himself noodles with chopsticks the other day. CHOPSTICKS. Albeit the kind with handles for training little kids, but he's pretty adept and handling food with it. Impressive!!

We got the Pororo ones from Mama Moo, as well as this thing called the Wean Machine for mushing up baby food, as a baby shower pressie for Ivy, and an anti-bacterial spray (rather than the alcohol gels which are nasty on my dermatitis-ridden hands).

In other news, I had a whole gadzillion of these at my b'day party over the weekend:

which is probably why I fell sick and am still nursing a sore throat. But thanks Candice they were lovely! And she actually gave me the recipe, which I'm dying to try out!

EG has more photos which he'll upload to FB soon!

It was a terrific weekend, I felt so loved! Friday nite out with the girls, a whole day of parties on Saturday with beautiful weather - Ivy's baby shower and Jin's housewarming - followed by a walk around the Flemington Twilight craft markets and dinner (if you can call eating at 5.30pm dinner) at Hellenic Republic where I got stuffed fatter than a Christmas turkey.

Then Sunday with a celebration in the park (great weather again!) with friends. And food prepped by Ivy. Who can ask for more?

Thanks for journeying with me!

Imaginarium

2009-11-11T14:30:00.002+11:00

I think Aidan's got an imaginary friend named Momo. He asked me today, "Momo, where?" then answered his own question, "Outside!" He then proceeded to the hallway, and shouted, "Momo, where are you?"

It's quite curious, this Momo creature. So far, I've sussed out that Momo is a HE, and he's GREEN. And he's NOT a DRAGON. Hmmm....interesting!

It's so hot in Melbourne this week that I'm glad we had swim class this morning. And we bumped into May with Faith and Caleb who were there with their Mainly Music mother's group! Lots of great splashing around and it was pretty crowded; I reckon everyone had the same idea - escape the heat in the indoor pool. Chubby little kids in floaties, mums keeping and eye on them, and some Dads too (an aside: I spied a really cute Dad today, looks a lot like that guy from Glee but better looking. Looks like the pool's the new mixer! And don't worry...EG is still the best looking Dad in the world... *disclaimer*)

Here's hoping the weekend gets cooler with all the parties we're having (including the Big Three-O!!!)

Communication

2009-10-22T16:57:00.004+11:00

He said a full proper sentence the other day, albeit a short one.

"I want to stay home."

There you have it folks, subject and predicate! Pronouns, preposition, subject, object, the whole shebang!

I was pretty proud, even though I still had to convince him that no, Mama had to run errands and go to school too, and that he'll have fun in school playing with Mia and Genevieve and Oscar and all his friends in the sandpit.

Poor bubba, what a pout. But he lightened up.

We've been having quirky moments lately with his use of the English language (vagaries with his use of Mandarin and Hokkien abound as well). Like last night, as EG recalled (I have a vague memory of it), he woke up in the middle of the night (sleeping in a cot our room while we have guests sleeping in his), and said loudly, "Mama! What you do-een?", to which I'd apparently grumpily replied, "I'm sleeping!"

And this morning, when we finally woke up, and played our "let's hide under the blanket" game, he shouted very VERY loudly, "Anybody in-SIIIde??", over and over until Wendy shouted back "Hi Aidan!!" which left him very surprised!

So he shouted again, "Any, out there?" (I'd corrected him and said that's what he should've said, since WE were IN the room)

No reply then. But we went downstairs, and Wendy relayed her amusement at having gone down earlier to check her email only to hear such an unlikely call coming from above!

Our P-plater (literally!)

2009-10-16T12:34:00.003+11:00

The following post is not suitable for those with a weak constitution. Or those currently eating while reading.

Today we mark the beginning of the end. The end of nappies!

Woohoo! Aidan did his first pee AND poo on demand in the toilet! It was a little one, hiding among the folds of the MOUNDS of toilet paper he likes throwing into the bowl, but there it was.

What celebration and rejoicing! (And I have spared you graphic photos.)

As a reward, he got to stick a star onto his potty training chart (although we don't use a potty - just straight onto the loo with a a training seat attached), and HAVE CHOCOLATE!!

Yum yum. Somehow, chocolate seems to suit the occasion (the colour brown, perhaps?)

Ok, I think I've grossed enough people out by now.

To wit, I say

2009-10-12T18:26:00.002+11:00

My! Time flies when you're having fun. Or at least being so extremely busy you forget to blog!

Life has been really full lately, what with Tupp parties and writing for Meld and taking care of my darling talking motormouth of a two-year-old.

Did I mention what a motormouth he is? Talks non-stop, with so many words, and he's really communicating his wants, likes, dislikes. Although he sometimes also has the unfortunate habit of hitting things out of frustration. Like people.

In addition, I get the sneaky sensation I'm being conned most of the time. Case in point: On our trip to Tassie, EG wouldn't let him have the remote-control for the TV. He said, "Aidan, you've had enough TV." Then A starts to whine and cry, as you'd expect, and EG stayed firm, while A kept going on and on. Then suddenly, he stopped, looked at EG with a sly smile and said "Aidan, pretend cry!"

OMG.

You kinda know that kids are smart and manipulative, but you figure it's an unconscious move on their part, being unable to harness self-control. But I didn't imagine HE KNEW he was manipulative. Maybe on a subconscious level, but not overtly!

Now I know why my friend said kids are dead cunning.

Anyhoos, here's another recent video: A responding to a video of his Kaofu (Uncle).

Today's post has been brought to you by the number 2

2009-09-21T16:00:00.003+10:00

So we went up to Mt Hotham last weekend:

In other news, we had Aidan's 2nd b'day bash combined with Zoe-Grace on Saturday. Crazy - 50+ adults and 15 kids. Yikes! Pictures will be up soon...

Happy 2nd Birthday!!

2009-09-10T10:33:00.002+10:00

Yes, my little man, you've finally turned 2.

2 years since that fateful day, when the contractions came fast and furious, and you came roaring out to greet the world. (ok, maybe not quite roaring, probably more of a quiet salute).

Time flies, and from a little bubsy who was born after a tiring 17-hour labour, you've blossomed into a fine young man, sitting on my lap crunching Special K while I type this.

I love mornings like this when it's already 10.30 and we're still in our pajamas having breakfast and watching Babar on TV.

And you've already got 4 birthday wishes! (I sang "Happy Birthday" to him and he shouted"Hip Hip Hooray!" after - must've been the many times he's heard us say this at other people's birthdays.)

Can't wait to celebrate the rest of the day with you!

On the eve of...

2009-09-09T19:34:00.004+10:00

WOW. What an eventful day. It started with two rude men and ended with a nosebleed!

All this the day before his 2nd birthday!

Delivering the fruits and veg to GB, I was told off by the Irish gent (rudely I might add) to drop it off at the loading zone around the corner. And after deliveries was done, was sworn at by the guy blocking my exit in the loading zone for parking there. We got into an altercation, but suffice to say, I can understand why Fight Club members feel exhilarated after a bout. Feels good to blow off steam.

The rest of the day was uneventful (save for Aidan's THREE-hour nap), until after dinner when Aidan started jumping on the couch, and FELL OFF, hitting the glass coffee-table on the way down (landed on his fours though - good instincts!) and promptly burst into tears with BLOOD DRIPPING FROM HIS NOSE.

Yikes! The sticky red liquid soaked up tissue after tissue, and I had to yell up to Ellie for some help 'coz EG was out, but eventually he settled down, and was happy after some chocolate. His upper lip's a little swollen though.

My hope is that he learns from this, and not think of the incident as a performance he can repeat to get more chocolate.

That said, he's bouncing up and down on the couch next to me again. SIGH...

Aidan's first haircut in the salon

2009-08-24T23:26:00.005+10:00

Aidan's first professional haircut!

See the pictures here!

I'll add more details soon.

NB: Finally, we got the video from Terence, who was visiting Melbourne and tagged along to the salon. It's here.

Healthy Cookies (yes they exist!)

2009-08-13T16:22:00.011+10:00

We've been on the hunt for healthier snack alternatives for Aidan, without too much sugar ('coz he's energetic enough as it is!) So after Googling around, I found a great cookie recipe which we tried this morning!

If you've been following my tweets today, you'd have seen the results as the cookies were being made.

Here's what happened (click on photos to see larger version):

Mash a large ripe banana

Add in butter & sugar

Sift the flour

Add all the dry ingredients to the wet ones and Mix!!

Chop up an apple in the Happy Chopper

Add it into the mixture

Mix it into a dough!

Spoon them and drop 'em onto the cookie pan

Bake for 20 mins at 160 degrees C

Here they are baking...they SMELL DELICIOUS!

All done! Onto the rack to cool...

...and into Aidan's tummy! Yum!!

Here's the recipe, which I got from ChefMom.com. I've tweaked it a little...didn't add the cinnamon or macadamia nuts, 'coz I didn't have any at home!

Apple-banana wholemeal cookies
1 large ripe banana
1/2 cup unsalted butter, really soft (or use olive oil as a healthier alternative)
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 cup of oatmeal
1/2 cup white flour
3/4 cup wholewheat flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
1 apple, chopped

Preheat oven to 160 degrees C. Mash banana in a large bowl. Add butter (or olive oil) and brown sugar. In another bowl, mix dry ingredients. Add these to the banana mixture. Add the nuts and apples last.

Spoon onto cookie pan lined with greaseproof paper, about 5 cms apart. Bake in oven at for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Prep time: 30 to 45 minutes. The recipe makes about 30-40 cookies, depending how big you make them!

And trust me, they were REALLY yummy. I usually gravitate towards chocolate, but these weren't too sweet so I just kept popping them into my mouth! WARNING: 1 or 2 cookies might be a healthier alternative to chocolate; pop 6 or 7 of these babies like I did, and you'd need to swim 10 laps!!

Thinking thoughts

2009-08-10T23:54:00.003+10:00

Just some quiet reflections.

I made a new friend recently, my Tupperware manager actually, E (yes, I've recently joined Tupperware; for Tupperholics, my AP was on 2/8/09, and 1st demo this Sat after Sessions!), and our long car rides to Demos and Sales meetings have given us an avenue to talk, and swap stories.

E's such an amazingly wonderful person, very open about her life and what's she's battled with, and I'm just so impressed with her positivity in spite of everything. It really feels like God's had a hand in bringing us together, for such a time as this.

Tonight we talked about lots of things, our family as usual, and based on her own experience post-birth, it made me wonder if all the feelings and anxieties I had with my newborn could've been classified as post-natal depression.

Now labeling anyone with the big D-word is pretty scary, although during the 1st year of Aidan's life I did check out a few websites to see if I exhibited signs. While I ticked a few boxes, it wasn't quite enough to label me with PND. I guess there's a spectrum.

I think my feelings mostly tied in with a sense of a loss of control. I think I was angry most of the time. Not angry enough to yell or scream or throw a plate, but I often felt stressed, anxious, tired, and got the sense I was well in over my head. Which resulted in me snapping at everyone, all the time.

So maybe it wasn't just the baby blues, maybe it was more than that. I guess I'll never know. I'm hoping I'll be more aware when the next one comes along.

In the meantime, I've learnt a bit more about myself in the last week, why a lack of control over situations tend to tip me over the edge (esp. nearing my period...hmmm...hormones do play a part!) and what amazing AMAZING girlfriends I have. And a gracious husband. And a merciful God.

Here's to tomorrow!

Aidan's first girlfriend

2009-07-29T09:18:00.004+10:00

SUCH a cute thing happened yesterday. As usual I picked him up from childcare, and Mia, the friend he always talks about, was getting picked up by her Dad too. We always tease Aidan about Mia, saying "Is Mia your girlfriend?" to which he always shyly/slyly turns away and says "Nooooo!"

Well yesterday, as they were leaving, he pointed to Mia and said, "Mia, girlfriend!" I was a little embarrassed mind you, after all her Dad whom I'd never met before was standing there, and here my son was, declaring his eternal devotion. But Mia was nonplussed.

I said, "Aidan, why don't you give Mia a hug goodbye?" and Mia's dad added "Yeah, go give him a cuddle and a kiss. " So they cutely toddled towards each other, gave each other a hug and pat-pat on the back, and MIA LEANED IN FOR A KISS - ON THE LIPS!!

Then they toddled back towards their respective parents.

Sniff, my boy's all grown up. Got his first kiss (from a peer, not like, from Aunties he knows...). And in front of the girl's Dad too!! What a stud haha!!

Parental gushings

2009-07-27T22:19:00.005+10:00

Ooh...a quick update! A just brushed his teeth on his own, properly! He usually just smooshes the brush around his mouth, but today he really looked like he was doing it properly, back and forth, left to right, even BEHIND! WOW!

Sometimes I forget that HE'S NOT EVEN 2 YEARS OLD!!

I think I have a genius on my hand, whose vocab is big, can recognise Alphabets (letter O! letter A!), Numbers (counts 1 to 10, altho sometimes he skips 5, 6, 7, 8) and Shapes (cheese Square! Crescent moon!), is physically adept (he can really catch himself before he falls) and is gorgeous (proof here)! Whaddaya know, we scored the Trifecta, the type of kid/person you can get so jealous of 'coz they're so good at everything!

Haha, ok, I'll stop gushing now.

Must...be...humble...

Vocab

2009-07-27T15:01:00.004+10:00

New words recently: CRESCENT moon, aunty, uncle, kookaburra, wake up (which he yells into my ear each morning), and a host of others too numerous to mention. He's really getting the hang of this whole communicating thing, which I'm really proud to watch happen! Although sometimes he stumbles and trips over his words, and reminds me of myself as I fumble through my Italian. Molto patetico!!

Nowadays he does this little jig around the house, and Ivy's house too, and says "dance dance dance"...how cute!!

Anyhoos, more photos from my bro who took these on his recent trip!

Click on the photo below!

AND MORE HERE TOO!!

Another video!

2009-07-17T09:03:00.001+10:00

New AUDIO recordings

2009-07-15T18:20:00.002+10:00

Here're some new recordings Aidan did on my iPhone recently! Note - AUDIO ONLY!

Swim

2009-07-08T14:54:00.004+10:00

Phew! Finally, THREE weeks of Aidan and E-Gene falling sick, getting well, and falling sick again have passed. I've been inoculating myself with echinacea pills TWICE a day just so I can take care of the 2 babies. And trust me, the taller one's the bigger baby when he's sick... ;-)

Today, sadly is the last day Aaron, Aidan's kao fu (Uncle in Cantonese) will be with us before he leaves this evening back home to Singapore! Boooohooo....

Little A's really enjoyed having his kaofu around, waking each morning calling his name, and the silly games they play. My brother's always been great with kids, and with his nephew, it's no exception. A big stocky giant gone mushy putty with his little bubba.... I've also really enjoyed spending quality time with my bro, catching up and seeing the sights and eating eating eating!

Anyhoo! Today we FINALLY went to the pool for a little swim, and boy did little A love it! Slid down the froggy slide, a giant (you guessed it) frog's mouth into which he hops in from the back and slides down the frog's tongue! SO CUTE! When I've got the pics I'll upload it. He also loved the "fountains" and bubbles, and wading through the water while holding my hand. And even accidentally dunking his head underwater didn't faze him! And with big A pretending to be a crocodile and splashing little A, they make quite the cute couple!

Sigh. I think Aidan and I are both gonna be really sad tomorrow when we wake up, and don't see the snoring giant asleep on our couch in the morning...

New photos

2009-06-22T22:22:00.002+10:00

Here're some new photos Aidan's biggest fan took recently. To check them out on Facebook, click on the photo below (you don't need to log in)

Some recent photos

2009-06-21T22:29:00.002+10:00

Here're some pics taken by Ivy recently. I'll post up the FB link to the album once she gets it to me! :-)

Soh family's visit in May

Granny and Aidan sharing a meal

Climbing into my new home...

...It's pretty comfy!!

Happy June Father's Day

2009-06-21T11:53:00.006+10:00

Since it's Father's Day in some parts of the world today (we celebrate it in September over here), I thought it'd be pertinent to remind Aidan on how much E-Gene loves him... ;-)

Dear Aidan

As you edge closer to your 2nd birthday, here's a gentle reminder of how much we love you. And especially how much your Dada loves you.

He
- loves cuddling you and playing with you in the room he's setup and decorated for you.

- is grateful for all the cuddles you return, especially today when he's sick, and you walked up to him to give him a hug, saying "cuddle".

- is always patient with you, even when he has to discipline you for being disobedient.

- is always supportive of your mama, and goes to work so that she can stay home and care for you full-time.

- loves teaching you new things, like how things work, and animal names.

- isn't afraid to show you how much he loves you. He says his favourite time of the day is when he gets to hold you as you fall asleep in his arms.

- is always on the lookout for ways to protect you (like straightening the rugs so you won't trip and fall).

- works hard each and every day, waking at 5.30am, is on his feet all day with no breaks til 5.30pm, then comes back to play with you, wash you, entertain you, before finally crashing into bed at 10.30pm. Is it any wonder he's lost so much weight? ;-)

And as you grow, you'll discover the many different sacrifices he makes each day to care for you and provide the best that he can for you. May you grow to trust his wisdom and love, as he's showed you how much his Creator has loved and cared for us.

Hugs and cuddles and heaps of love,
Mama and Dada

Sunday...blandy Sunday...

2009-06-21T11:31:00.004+10:00

Sadly my two boys are pretty sick today, although one's still up and chirpy, while the other's mooching in bed. Guess which one's which? ;-)

Aidan's got a slight fever, runny nose, and a chesty cough. EG is nursing a really bad headache - he says he's never had one this bad before (and being allergic to panadol, nurofen and whatever else is in the NSAID family doesn't help!) I guess this means I might have to miss little Adrienne's 1st birthday party today to take care of them - bummer! :-( We've already stayed home from church.

On a cuter note, A's vocabulary has been increasing exponentially (airplane, chicken porridge, wiggles, maht0 (tomato), cumber (cucumber), all with perfect enunciation!), as well as his ability to 'read'. He can point out Os in words, and recognise a few other letters. And since I've been sticking up labels on items in his room, we've been playing games like "Where's the word 'Bookshelf'?" and he'll run to point it out. He can also point out colours! Keep it up bubba!

The cutest thing he's doing lately is saying "Sorry". As in "Sorry, please excuse me". He'll try to scoot around his Dad or Uncle Jon or Uncle Jeremy and say "Sorry, Jon" or "Sorry, Jeremy", or even "Sorry, Percy" when his little Percy tank engine falls off his train track. Hilarious!! I'm just amazed he can use it in context. How terribly polite!

Fame!!! part 5

2009-06-17T22:31:00.005+10:00

Aloha everyone! The ad's finally out! Presenting.... Aidan's first print ad!!

July '09 issue of Practical Parenting, Page 8

We're now taking offers...

I kinda wish I had the nerve to snap pics during the photoshoot, but somehow thought if I was being a busybodies our chances would be slimmer! Weird I know! Maybe next time (if there is one)?? ;-)

Singin' in the...bathtub.

2009-06-15T19:57:00.008+10:00

Ages ago, when I was a child, my mum did a recording of me singing "One elephant went out to play..." from The Elephant Show. I got up to six elephants and you can hear my mum going "okay okay, enough already lah", and me saying "no!!! more elephaaaants!!"

Well, the tradition has carried on!

It took me FOREVER to get this audio file up 'coz Blogger doesn't allow you to post audio files, so after trying HEAPS of different methods, finally used iMovie, dragged a photo and added the audio (that in itself took awhile too, since I'm pretty tech unsavvy!!)

Oh gosh, I sound EXACTLY like my mum! Not only do I look like and act like her, now I sound like her too! Creepy... ;-)

And since I'm blogging...

2009-06-10T18:31:00.005+10:00

Notice something familiar about A's new haircut?

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Now that he's scored a print ad...maybe a film career's next? ;-)

Photos are up!

2009-06-10T17:16:00.003+10:00

Here're some recent pics - click on the link below!

AIDAN iPhone pics

Rainy Day afternoon

2009-06-10T16:06:00.004+10:00

So we've abandoned the healthy-cookie baking idea this arvo in favour of making...Playdough! Yes, coloured sticky fun for everyone.

The recipe I used:
2 cups of plain flour
4 tablespoons of cream of tartar
2 tablespoons of cooking oil
1 cup of salt
2 cups of boiling water
Food colouring

Yes, the delicious (I'm sure you've snuck in a piece or two when you were a kid, come on, admit it) recipe calls for ONE WHOLE CUP OF SALT. What the?!! That's half my bottle at home! That's a heck of a lotta sodium in one sculpture.

Anyhoos, here's the photos taken from my iPhone. Grazie to PhoneView's trial version which allowed me to transfer the photos from my iPhone to my comp.

Mix mix mix...

Voila! A lump of dough. Then I split it in half,
and coloured one lump pink, the other green...

Weee!!!

Fun on a rainy day indoors...

We had lots of fun, creating "snow" men, logs with button-balls, "cookies", cut out animals, and I even created a "map" using the dough to explain to Jeremy D (who's staying on my couch for a couple weeks) how to get to the bus stop. Isn't Playdough useful?!!

Note: As I'm typing this blog, A is sitting next to me with the iPhone learning new words, and recognising shapes. He actually knows "SUB!" and "WAGON!" now. What a clever kid!!

Happy 21 Months!

2009-06-10T11:11:00.003+10:00

So much has happened in the past month it's hard to pen it all down. But I'll do my best!

He loves bike rides, especially since his Grandad brought him cycling around the neighbourhood when he was here, he's learnt how to fake a snore, and he got up to heaps of mischief with his cousin Ariel while she was visiting.

He's really learned a lot in the last few weeks, new words, an EXTENSIVE vocabulary, and he's really recognising numbers and alphabets now. He can point to the correct word (I've been sticking up labels in his room, like "Clock" or "Wardrobe"), and we've started potty training - he can tell us "Poo Poo", although sometimes it's a false alarm. But now he gets out of his bathtub to pee (we'd put the his bathtub into the grown-ups bathtub, and he steps into the big one to watch himself drip a couple drops), instead of weeing into his bathwater. Although for the very very first time, he pooed into his bath on Monday.

Charles has just taught him 'kah' and 'chiu'. (Can we start with English first before Hokkien?!!) And he's also learnt to say a mumbled grace before meals (which sounds something like "isygwehvviuhwiheioheoif.... AMEN!"), as well as sing "Twinkle twinkle little star", while filling in the last word in other songs we sing together. And he's changed "Oh where...is my hairbrush" to "Oh where....is my Gong Gong (what he calls my dad)!" Bob and Larry would have a fit!

Nowadays he's been playing with my iPhone and learning words and shapes through the Apps. He actually sits still! But I limit it to a couple of minutes, so his eyes won't deteriorate too quickly - ack, video games at 21 months! Terrible!

He's also got his first haircut on Monday. It was meant to be a trim, to retain his Zac Efron look, but I think I've turned him into Moe from the Three Stooges. Although I think it's calmed down since then, and it looks a little better. Will post pics soon.

As for today, we were well on our way to our first swim class, but it started raining...again! Battling howling winds, piercing drizzles and a runaway pram for the 30 minute walk to the (indoor, heated) pool was NOT the way I'd imagined it. And I didn't exactly relish the thought of having to corral the little munchkin in the ladies' locker room for a post-swim shower either. I finally decided to turn around. Sigh...maybe next week...when we actually have the car!

So today's rainy-day activity... baking (healthy) butter cookies!

Also... Aussie readers, look out for his Heinz ad in the July issue of Practical Parenting, out this month!!

Fame!!! part 4

2009-05-07T18:32:00.007+10:00

Monday's shoot went pretty well, we were told to bring several outfits for him to change into but in the end they had an orange jumper for him to wear. We showed up bright and early at a beautiful house in Armadale (1/2 an hour early actually, 'coz I was so afraid of being late!), got him changed, and were led into a bightly-lit kitchen filled with important advertising types, production co-ordinators, art director, stylists, photographer, photographer's assistant... in short, lotsa people.

He was then presented with POTS and WOODEN SPOONS. That's like releasing fish into water. Or chocolate to me.

So there we were, time-slotted between 2 other adorable kids (blonde-haired, blue-eyed, what else?), rotating turns and having my eardrums pierced by the pounding in the room, punctuated by sounds made by my MIL re-enacting her version of an air-traffic controller at a children's circus. It definitely elicited responses from Aidan, 'coz when the other kids had a go (and we were ushered out of the room) they didn't seem to have done too well. One was fussing, and the other seemed rather afraid of the "drums", so much so that they had to call A back into the room to show her how to do it! I think it helped that he was a little older than the other two (yet looked between 12-18 months, which was the brief), so was better at co-ordinating his limbs. And all the while, he was smiling, rearranging the pots just the way he liked it (how pedantic, like his Dada!), banging away so hard the wooden spatula broke, and using his mouth to drum by biting on the spoon and nodding!! I think he did the last one 'coz he figured, Hey, these people have been watching me do the same ol' same ol' for awhile now, let's try something different!

I almost thought we should forget the whole affair, with him bunging his face TWICE in the preceding week, leaving a scratch across his forehead between his brows, and under his left eye (Murphy endangering my career as a future stage-mum?!!) But we showed up anyways, and I'm glad we did, because we just found out that HE'S THE NEW HEINZ BABY!!!

Yes folks, we made it! I've seen a draft copy of the ad, it looks fantastic, our little precocious tyke has just earned his first paycheck, and I'M GOING TO GETTING AN EXPENSIVE MASSAGE FOR MOTHER'S DAY. Minus the manager's fee (Stevie, who sent us the casting-call email), and grandparent's fee (for dancing around like a lunatic to get him to respond) of course.

Family

2009-04-30T13:41:00.002+10:00

The in-laws have arrived!

It's gonna be a fun few weeks :-) Yesterday I spent the whole day cleaning, getting ready for their arrival today.

Looking forward to it!

Fame? Part 3

2009-04-28T09:19:00.007+10:00

So, great news, we got picked for the new ad! We're not sure if it's gonna be a print ad or an online one, or if he'll even be featured in the final edit, but we're just really excited to be part of the experience.

The shoot takes place on Monday, and we'll have more details then. My MIL's coming along, since my in-laws arrive tomorrow morning. Yay! We're really looking forward to their visit! Woohoo...it's always great to have family around. :-)

Anyhoos, in other news, Aidan's vocabulary has been expanding daily. He greets me "Morning!" when he wakes up, before asking "Dada, where?!" then "Work!", he can name all his body parts (some even in Chinese!) says "Hi" and "Bye" (did I mention this before?). Yesterday he said "No no NO THANKS!" (hmm...firm but polite I guess!), he can also say the 3 Cs - "cookie", "cake", and "cracker", the 3 Bs - "bird", "bubbles", "bath", "phone", his own name, "Mama, Dada, IVY!" and lots more, I can't keep up! He can even recognise ring tones, and knows whether it's Mama's phone or Dada's.

There are also some words that tickle him to bits which I prefer him not to say. Like "kookoo", which Ivy and Stephen taught him. HARRUMPH! Now he keeps pointing to himself and saying it! Adorable I guess, at this age, but not so when he's like, er, 22.

He's also getting better with sitters, although times at childcare can still be teary. The other day, before I'd even finished leaving instructions with Jon, he'd already said "BYE!!" and waved me off. The same on Monday at Em's too, when I was just heading out to load the car! Cheeky little bugger!

Well, the Foos and Kienan are arriving on Monday...it's gonna be great to see the 2 boys play together again!!

Here's a photo sequence taken at a friend's wedding the past weekend, featuring the Soh boys and Faith, one of Aidan's run-around playmates. Thanks Joy for the photos and captions.

Girl: Wheee!
Boy: Just a minute...

Girl: Ooh, I'm way up high!
Boy: He's MY daddy!

Boy: Get off my dad's arm.
Girl: Eh? What did I miss?

Fame? Part 2

2009-04-24T23:38:00.005+10:00

So we made it to the casting today, after driving for about 45 mins in peak hour morning traffic. I was so nervous about being late that I couldn't really sleep the night before! But we got there with enough time to spare, and for me to compose myself after the harried zipping and speeding through the streets, praying I wouldn't hit a traffic jam.

It lasted for about 15 mins, after the initial "wah" factor of arriving at the made-to-impress office - they own the BUILDING. Yikes! And it's all open-plan, so you can see everyone working as you arrive. And the impressive ad campaigns all strung up on the walls.

We were led by a very pretty lady to a room where the art director, a petite girl, got Aidan to play with some pots and pans with wooden spoons (phew! His favourite activity at the moment!), while she took some shots. He was shy at first, but banged and smiled happily away, occasionally looking up to half-smile at the camera. She said she got some cute pics, so hopefully that's good news for us!

After filling up some forms and such, we were handed a Heinz goodie bag, and whisked back to the car in the morning drizzle. Fingers crossed. Maybe he could be the next Heinz Nurture baby! They said the ad could either be a print or online ad, and I had to sign a talent-release form stating the compensation paid for the shots, if we were chosen ($800 for main kid, $400 for the back-ups), would be for unlimited use worldwide.

I did some googling last night, wondering what it'd take to start Aidan's career as a child genius slash star slash prodigy slash beloved national treasure, and found out it'd take a LOT. Modelling agencies charge a registration fee, followed by an annual fee to maintain an online profile of your child, head shots, composite etc. For $500!! Every year!! And that doesn't even guarantee your kid'll get picked!

Hmm.

Methinks it'll be awhile before I'm a stage mum.

Anyhoos, after we left, I dropped him off at childcare where he did his usual sobby goodbye. And of course I felt really terrible and guilty leaving, even though I knew he'd stop once I left (his carers always say he's pretty happy the rest of the day, and whenever I arrive to pick him up and spy through the class window, he's always toddling around playing and having fun).

But I just couldn't shake the feeling today, and I felt so lonely and anxious and purposeless at home, that I decided to head out again and catch up with C over lunch. It was pretty good to have our chat.

I wonder if I'll ever shake the horrible feeling like I'm abandoning him there, even though I know the environment's really good for him and he learns a lot there, especially interacting with the other (ang moh) kids. SIGH! Man, when he starts real school...

Fame?

2009-04-23T14:07:00.007+10:00

Some interesting news. We recently sent in Aidan's photo for a Heinz ad call-out, and got shortlisted! So tomorrow he'll be in for casting/audition, bright and early at 9.30am, and we're keeping our fingers crossed.

Let's hope he'll be his sparkly self and won't be intimidated by all the strangers! Now I'm just contemplating what he'll wear, what I'll wear (*ahem*, ad people DO look at the mums y'know), what time we should leave the house to avoid traffic, and whether the whole shebang's gonna be like that in Mad Men.

There'll be one main kid for the Heinz Nurture print ad campaign, and 2 "back-up" tots who may or may not be in the ad. Hope we get into the top 3! If all goes well, it'll be a fun experience for me (if he behaves), and a real eye-opener.

(And maybe my career as a stage-mum will be kick-started into gear!) Muahhahaha.....

PS. The photos I sent in were the bath troll-hair one, and this:

Nightmares and dreamscapes

2009-04-21T22:17:00.006+10:00

It's hard when he goes through his night-terror episodes, when he screams and thrashes and there's not much you can do to comfort him, not even hugging him close, because he's still half-asleep, semi-conscious, and hysterical.

According to BabyCenter:

Night terrors are sleep disturbances in which a child may suddenly sit bolt upright in bed, cry, scream, moan, mumble and thrash about with her eyes wide open, but without being truly awake. Because she's caught in a sort of a twilight zone between being asleep and being awake, she's unaware of your presence and isn't likely to respond to anything you say or do. An episode can last anywhere from two to 40 minutes, and when it's over your child falls back to sleep abruptly with no memory of the incident.
...
Don't try to wake her. And expect that your efforts to comfort her will be rebuffed – a child having a night terror really can't be calmed down, and if you try to hold her it may make her wilder.

We usually pick him up and try to soothe him but it's usually to no avail...he has to eventually wake up, then he'll calm down, suck on his pacifier, and go back to sleep. Poor bubba. Tonight's episode was longer than usual...I reckon about 30 mins? Sigh...

Winter wonderland

2009-04-15T22:06:00.007+10:00

He did the cutest thing today, saying "hop! hop!" and then bending his knees to make a great big leap into the air. Where does he learn such gestures? I wonder if he picked it up from childcare. Whatever the case, he's been adorable and chatty, having created his own language and babbling it like a brook in the forest.

And how completely creative was he this evening, ripping out tons and tons of styrofoam packaging from the new table base that's arrived. Our own indoor snowstorm! Beautiful little dots that foamed around us, covering the table, the floor, my hair, his pyjamas, my dinner. A gorgeous blanket of fluff, specially created for me to clean.

When I used the smacky-stick on his hand, after repeated calls for him to stop, he winced his face in pain, in tears, then blindly walked forwards with arms outstretched for his routine comfort-hug. What sweet embrace. Especially when he turned to the package and said "No, no."

Then repeated the snowstorm again.

Funny faces

2009-04-07T16:56:00.005+10:00

Thanks Jo for the video!

BTW, another milestone, Aidan's learned to feed himself! And I'm not just talking about finger-food - he's mastered that awhile ago. I'm talking about bowls of porridge and pasta! I just pop it in front of him with a spoon, and there he goes. If it's too hot, he says "Hot!" (albeit with a funny accent...sounds more like "hu-ot!"), then blows at his spoonful of food. Or he'll wait til it cools down then shovels it in.

Mind you, it's not a very neat experience, but he does it pretty well, and the mess is quite contained, and easy to clean up. Sometimes he helps me wipe up his mess too (he's going through his "let's copy mummy phase"). What a cutie.

Couple more weeks til the in-laws and friends arrive. Can't wait!!