Kimi's Little Adventure

UK 2011 - Burford on Foot

2011-12-05T22:54:00.001+08:00

Today we went walkabout in Burford town's High Street.
Burford is situated in north Oxfordshire, twenty miles west of Oxford, and is considered the southern gateway to the Cotswolds. The gentle rolling hills of the surrounding countryside are perfect for walking, cycling or horse riding. People have lived and worked here for over 6,000 years.

The broad main street slopes gently down to the river and is lined with dignified old houses and ancient cottages and many shops all of which appear little changed since Tudor times as witnessed by the precarious angles the buildings have come to rest at. It is not unusual to have house, shophouses as old as 900 years here. My sis used to live in an apartment here and that house was at least 900 years old!

Although we had slightly over an hour to walkabout, I had a great time. I love walks like that where I can take in the local sights, peer into people's homes and take leisurely shots. But what frustrates me is that I have a great camera (yes!! my new toy) but I don't know how to maxismise its use. It's like having a Ferrari and not knowing how to drive! Arrgghh!!! I must learn to use it, the scenery is gorgeous!!

This was the backyard of a needlework shop and the owners also sells these nick nacks and decor. Nice!

Kimi was so excited when he found 2 mini pots with water in them. Ya, just water...

Signs galore

Lovely little nook with more signs

My fave - totally agree! lol!

Nice scene from the top of High Street

My little cutie

Sis and mom, outside Maison Blanc, a cafe. My sis used to live in the apartment above this cafe. My little trooper is a little upset as he wanted to stick with mummy and not to any pix

Love the architecture in the background

Totally agree! I love signs!

Another nice one!

Love it! When we moved to our current house, we opted for modern contemporary for ease of cleaning and a change from our old place which was done in Mediterranean Country. And altho I love modern clean look, my heart is always for all things country. It lends a special cosiness to any home. But so much to clean!!! And of cos, now, our place is a mad clutter of kids' stuff. Sigh, when will I get my house back?

All quaint and pretty country signs and decor

Pretty Xmas decor

This house sells xmas trees, wreathes, candles, flower arrangements in their garden. So nice isn't it?

Pretty fresh xmas wreaths

Nice!

Then as promised, we brought Kimi to feed the ducks at the river. As we approach the area, the ducks, swans and goose rushed to us!

Kimi feeding happily

The fearless goose that would come up to you and demand for bread

Then it was time to head back to pick Sarah. This beautiful converted house to Pub is just opposite Sarah's school. Took opportunity to take a pix

Nice

UK 2011 - Lunching out

2011-12-04T21:45:00.001+08:00

We decided to try out this Steak and Pasta, joint at Witney today for our Sunday lunch and although I was ok with the food and service, my sis wasn't too pleased when her order of a rack of ribs were cold. :(

The decor at Frankie & Benny's was pretty nice and cosy but it was a rather small restaurant really. I think the ribs were marinated very well and the meat was soft and juicy and fell off the bones easily. The steak I had was a little over charred on the stop and a little too 'veiny' for my preference. Kimi's order of Fish & Chips were also a little overcooked. But I found the onion rings really juicy, sweet and yummy.

Well, because they did not attempt to do anything about the cold ribs, my sis has decided not to return! Lol! But, who knows, the kids loved the ribs and I am tempted to try making the ribs next week!

Nice mirror in the restaurant

The Coulthards

Claire's order of Rack of Ribs - I was too slow, she chomped on it before I could even whip off my cam's lens cover!

My a little over-charred on the top steak

After lunch, we went a little shopping and Kimi was running with the kids earlier

Love this pix! I managed to grab a pix of him running and jumping!

A decent shot at the X'mas tree

UK 2011 - Gardening

2011-12-03T23:11:00.001+08:00

The weather was rather good this morning with clear sly and good sunlight but it was still draughty so that meant it was rather chilly. We decided to stay in today despite being a Saturday cos firstly we had a late start and Hugh was keen to clear up the overgrown bush and dead leaves so we have an open view come Spring.

But before that, the kids had a good time cycling, playing football, hockey, rugby and just mucking about running and chasing each other in the open field. Good workout for the lungs! Ah, and not forgetting to say hi and feeding the horses too!

And really, the kids had such a fun time pulling weeds, vines and what have you in the overgrowns and poking at the soil that they can't wait to do it again! :)

Kimi having a go at the rugby ball

Football craze!

The horses which the kids love visiting

Kimi trying the feed and stroke the horse

The girls helping to remove the creepers/stranglers from the trees

Kimi also tried to help by clearing the dead leaves, twigs and branches to the sides

Ivy vines in abundance! I loved these ivy vines and I remembered I had to pay $20 for a small pot and had quite a little bit of a hassle to grow these around my large water pipes in my old house. And here, it is growing wild in abundance!

The sun sets early, round about 3.30pm

UK 2011 - Around Town

2011-12-02T07:00:00.000+08:00

We had to get groceries today and on our way to Sainsbury, Kimi grabbed my iphone and took some pix. I find this really nice and we were in a moving car! I think Kimi has a way with cameras, don't you? :)

Upon reaching the supermarket, I saw this really funny & quirky car that was so tiny but housed a really huge German Shepherd! It seemed the dog was bigger than the car! Lol! We had a good laugh!

UK 2011 - Creating, creating ....

2011-12-02T06:55:00.002+08:00

Kimi has been making cute stuff since our stay here. There are many others which I have missed taking pix and now am sorely upset and regretful! :(

25/11/11 - After watching Transformers the night before, Kimi got up early and made this - his version

Then Kimi modified it and said this is a more powerful version with bigger guns

Kimi with his creation

This was also done on 25/11/11. Traffic Seaplane - that's what Kimi calls it. He says it rescues n saves pple who hv driven off cliffs and hills and into the sea/waters

This was made today, 2/12/11. Kimi said it is a beetle gift box. Inside hides a surprise!

Beetle Gift box - Remove the bricks to reveal a surprise!

Tada! My surprise!

And then he changed it to a Ladybug gift box

And before going to bed, his creation - A Spacecraft

I like how Kimi plays - he will use his Lego to build whatever structures he needs and uses that to play with his Playmobil. I enjoy his creativity!

New Blog Look!

2011-12-02T06:43:00.000+08:00

Hi!! I'm back, I hope. Keeping all fingers and toes crossed!

Have been really busy that I hardly have any time left to blog. So sad isn't it? But, I'm trying to find more motivation to do so. Here's my first motivation - changing a new look! Remember our previous look? Here's what it looked like ....

And, this is our new look!!

I hope with the new look, we are going to have more posts! Stay tuned!

UK 2011 - Is Xmas here already?

2011-11-30T22:00:00.001+08:00

Since it is a day-off for the girls from school due to the Teachers' Strike, we decided to go to Banbury for a bit of shopping. It is very windy and too cold to go out in the open today,

On the way, I managed to grab a shot of the countryside while in a moving car. Don't you love those blue, blue skies?

Oh, how I love the sweet scent of fresh flowers and pine cones!

What a beautiful Xmas wreath! Wished I could bring this back to Singapore!

Lunch Punch Giveaway at Bento Fun!!

2011-05-31T00:53:00.000+08:00

Wow, It has been EONS since I last blogged! I am so sorry for neglecting this blog... even more sorry to my son cos this blog is meant to document all his growing up moments.

I hope I can really get my engine started again! Now with FB, it is so convenient and quick that I totally neglect my blog. :(

Ok, I revival post is to let all my readers know abt an amazing giveaway at a blog pal's blog. She is a fab mom that packs bentos for her little boy. I love her blog and bentos cos there are many wonderful ideas and tips that she fills readers with.

Do pop by her blog when you have some time and be amazed!

http://bentofun.info/

Bento #68 - Mr Tickle Sends His Love

2011-01-07T16:16:00.002+08:00

Corn, chicken cocktail heart-shaped sausages, small banana, Steamed Orange Cheesecake with nori facial details and gummy for extra long tickly hands. I used spagetti strips to shape the hands and pin it down. And bones picks for Mr Tickle's shoes/legs

Kimi asked for Mr Tickle yesterday after SM class so I bought a Steamed Orange Cheesecake and set out to decorate for him.

During our bedtime reading, one of our routines is to go through Kimi's daily devotional book. Last night's sharing was on John 13:34-35, Philippians 1:3-8 and 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20. It talks about how we should tell our friends we love them.

In this way, when we show love for one another, it not only pleases God but most importantly, it Glorifies God. Being kind to others help people understand how much Jesus loves us and how much we love Jesus.

Kimi then shared that no one in school was kind, nice to him or said nice things to him. I then encouraged him to make the first move. When we first show kindness, it is easier for others to follow suit.

So, I made the first move today but sending all my love to Kimi in the form of flying heart sausages and a love message which I carved on the banana skin. :)

Bento #67 - Back To School~Timmy Sheep

2011-01-06T13:40:00.002+08:00

Tomato macaroni with chix sausage, clemetine, broccoli, corn and mashmellow. Timmy is made with chicken ham roll, seaweed and sugar eyes. Timmy is accompanied by his piggy and ducky friend picks.

Kimi requested to have Timmy Time's Timmy the Sheep for today's bento. This is the first time I am making a full figure with exacto knife and it is indeed not easy as the seaweed gets soft rather quickly. Anyone has a goot tip, pls share ok? :)

I still can't seem to get the sheep family's look right. The last I made Shaun the Sheep didn't look much like him either and this too. More more practice I guess.

I managed to squeeze in before the deadline to join Shannon's What's For Lunch Wednesday, this week. Do drop by to see other mom's great bento ideas!

Bento #66 - Back To School~Animal Friends

2011-01-05T12:42:00.004+08:00

Fish fingers, edamame skewers, piggy gummy and grapes

I had forgotten to take a pix of yesterday's first day of school snack bento. This is Kimi's 2nd day at school's snack bento with an animal theme.

Kimi has requested that I pack a snack for him as he does not want to eat the lunch at school. So for the time being, I shall feed him a large brekkie and a snack for lunch at school.

Since he shall be feeding himself, it's got to be easy and foods that he likes else I believe the whole box will be brought back home - intact.

BFF (Best Friends Forever)

2010-11-07T00:38:00.001+08:00

Up till now, Kimi still thinks that Enzo is only 'vacationing' at Brother Charlie's place. And he still insists that Enzo is our dog. Kimi misses Enzo very much and everytime after visiting Enzo, he will want to bring him home. Kimi will ask me persistently why we aren't bringing Enzo home.

I'm so sorry Darling, you will understand in a few years time. It tears my heart too but this is the best for all of us. After today's visit, I had a serious eye allergy which became an infection and I needed to see a doctor the next day.

But I am heartened to say that Enzo is doing so wonderful in their hands and he is so loved and fabulously taken care of. All I can say is, "All Glory to Jesus!". When we put our trust and life in His Mighty Hands, we can be sure He will make the path smooth and straight. He made the way for us to find such a nice family for Enzo. We are even more Blessed cos both families are close friends now and we can visit Enzo anytime. Isn't that wonderful. Thank you, Lord!

BFF

Kimi starting his antics again! :)

Sweet, tender moments - Precious!

Amongst Friends ....

2010-10-17T00:29:00.001+08:00

Kimi's current favourites ....

Superheroes balloon sculptures from Church

Knights and more ....

Knights! :)

Morning @ The Gardens

2010-10-04T02:23:00.003+08:00

We decided to bring Kimi for a morning walk in the Gardens and to play at Children's Garden today. We only remembered when we arrived that it is a Monday and Children's Garden is closed every Monday. What a bummer!

Nevertheless, Kimi had fun running, scooting, feeding the swans, chasing pigeons and playing with 2 labs! :)

Kimi wanted to catch the pigeons despite my repeated 'no' - he just loves animals

Scoooooooot!

I love this pix of him running!

Yup, again! I'm always taking pix of Kimi running cos that's the essence of Kimi - always on the move! :)

A nice lady shared her bread with Kimi so he was enthusiastically feeding the pigeons

And of cos not forgetting the swans. Frankly, Kimi is so brave to let the swan eat from his hand cos these fellas can sometimes peck a little too hard.

Kimi stepped on some wet mud and wanted us to clean him up - here he is showing off his dirty foot! Heez!

Lovely Bamboo cluster in the background

Ahhh.. Kimi's favourite! He played with these 2 labs till the dogs were a little worn. Kimi still insisting that this lab do more retrieving. Look how he is literally shovering the tennis ball into the dog's mouth?

A boy and 2 dogs

Lovely blooms - my fave!

An owl perched on a tree? When Kimi saw this way up high on a tree, he shouted to me excitedly to look at the owl up there. I think momentarily he had forgotten owl are nocturnal. Hee hee! I, too on first glance thought it was an owl but..... on closer look.... it actually was .....

A bunch of dried leaves! Haha! Kudos to Kimi's sharp observation for something that was so high up and a vivid imagination!

Bento #65 - Mushroom Boys

2010-09-26T23:45:00.001+08:00

Corn, bread onigiri and gummy

I first saw these cute mushroom boys in Amy's blog. They looked so cute that I told myself I must make these for Kimi. This bento was made for Kimi's snack time in Church.

However, he was very upset and told me that 2 girls snatched and ate his mushrooms! Really, I am not sure to believe him or not cos Kimi CAN and WILL tell tall stories! He has a VERY imaginative mind. Well, I prefer to give him the benefit of the doubt. So, I told him to let his teachers know in future when something like this happens.

Blessed Children's Day

2010-09-26T23:30:00.000+08:00

Kimi with his early Children's Day presents from Grandma (Transformer) and Aunty Charmaine (Noah's Ark T-shirt). Look how happy he is! :)

Racing Into F1

2010-09-24T01:19:00.001+08:00

We were so blessed when our neighbour and hb's colleague gave us 2 VIP tickets to the F1. Although it was not the actual race night, both father & son had a great time bonding. I had the luxury of going for a quiet, un-rushed dinner and a little shopping.

But, frankly, I didn't even noticed that I did not slow down and continued to wolf down my food and walked quickly instead of a leisurely stroll in the shopping centre. I only realised when I was on the phone with Karen who asked me where I was rushing to and why I sounded hurried. It was only then it hit me that I had been too accustomed to being in a rush that I had forgotten to slow down.

What's more, with a few hours on hand, I felt so lost that I didn't know what to do or where to go. I felt so lousy walking aimlessly. I was so happy when hb called to ask me to pick them. After 3 hours on my own, I wanted to go home, really. :)

All decked up and ready for action!

Cool!

This must be Kimi's highlight cos he likes all things POLICE! Haha!

When I picked them at Raffles Hotel, Kimi asked hb to take a pix of him with the Ferrari - Kimi loves fast cars!

Lantern Festival

2010-09-22T01:11:00.000+08:00

Kimi is so excited over Lantern Festival this year as he loves playing with sparkles! He chose this Batman lantern as he is really into all these Marvel Comics Superheroes at the moment. His favourite being Ironman, Batman and Incredible Hulk.

Posing with his favourite lantern

When I asked if he could just relax his eyes and not let them go into slits when he smiles, he gave me this forced 'open eyes' expression! Lol!

And then quickly changed into this 'monkey face'. I bet Kimi will grow up to be a joker! He can be really funny at times and try to pull silly stunts to make us laugh. Sweet!

Croc Farm Visit

2010-09-07T00:09:00.007+08:00

Wow! I know this is terribly overdue but better late than never I guess. :)

During the September school holidays, 1 of the activities we did was to visit the Crocodile Farm. Kimi has been bugging me to bring him to see the crocs for sometime now - ever since I let out that there was one nearby. So I roped in Karen and her daughter for a morning of croc fun!

Frankly I didn't place alot of hope in seeing many crocs here as I know this farm since I was small. This farm has been around for at least 30 to 40 years. And the facade hasn't changed a bit since. Hence, I thought there would only be a miserly few crocs. But hey, I was wrong! There were sufficient crocs to pique the little ones' interest that we spent an hour plus there!

The kiddos at the entrance

Besides crocs, there's this turtle that was rather frisky

Kimi's fave spot - an abandoned fountain turned crocs display

There were quite a few species at the farm

This is the oldest and largest croc there - the uncle working there told us that this croc was already there when he started working at the farm about 30 over years ago. Scary! I won't even want to be near its enclosure (see video below for croc feeding)

Info galore! Kimi touching a real stuffed croc's teeth! You can purchase study/activity kits of various age groups at a very reasonable price. It's a must get as there are useful croc info

The uncle stringing up the chicken necks for feeding as Karen and Kylie looks on...

Waving an unwilling good-bye

We were also so blessed to experience the process of croc feeding - scary is the word. Nevertheless, the kids and moms had fun and learnt a fair bit here and I am sure we are going to be back soon. As we made our way out, Kimi asked to visit again. :)

Singapore Crocodile Farm

790 Upper Serangoon Road Singapore 534660

Tel +65 6288 9385

http://www.singaporecrocfarm.com/index.html

Pls excuse my video-taking skills as I had to carry Kimi in 1 hand and made sure he don't get too close and my camera from now falling off my hands - phew, not an easy feat at all!

Momotaro - The Peach Boy and Friends

2010-09-04T22:55:00.000+08:00

I just realised that I've missed out posting sooooo many plays that I've brought Kimi to. I'd better catch up on that else Kimi would thought that all he did when he was small was stay at home while his little friends, Estelle and Enbi were out enjoying every play and concert available!

We went for this play which Kimi likes very much (he even made me buy the story book much later after watching the play) with his usual 'kakis' (read : friends). But the parking at LaSalle almost gave me a heart attack so no more parking at this place next play!

Kimi and Enbi. I love how Enbi looks in this pix, she seems all grown up like a young lady! Sweet!

Kimi posing with the animal friends

Blessed With A Castle

2010-08-26T21:35:00.001+08:00

Hb came home this morning with this HUGE present for Kimi. Actually, Kimi has been eyeing this Playmobil castle for the longest time and hb decided to get it for him during this trip to the US. So he ordered it to be delivered to our sil, Julie's place in the US.

We were stunned when they wanted to pay for it and bless Kimi with the castle! :)

Thank you so much Uncle Peter and Aunty Julie for the castle, Kimi loves it and plays with it EVERYDAY! This is the largest castle in Playmobil and we are amazed by its detailings, etc. Awesome toy!

Kimi who just woke and can't wait to show his thankfulness to Uncle Peter and Aunty Julie for the toy

Unpacking the huge box

Halfway through assembling

Almost done! See how big that even Kimi can sit inside!

Awesome toy!

Bento #64 - Not Exactly Green Frogs

2010-08-24T23:25:00.002+08:00

Broccoli mixed with rice and shaped into balls for frogs, turkey ham & nori for facial cut-outs, steamed egg with minced pork, baby corn and steamed fish with soya sauce

I really miss my hob. You'd only realise how much you rely on using fire to cook when you lose it. So, it is still simple meals. Guess, it is healthier? Cos everything is steamed. :)

As I was making a simple dinner tonight, I thought I could spare some time to make a froggy themed bento for Kimi. This is relatively quick and easy to do. Just shape rice and attach cut-outs, arrange and we are done. Kimi was very happy to see the froggies as he is currently into frogs.

I had wanted to use the green Furikake to tint the rice but realised that I didn't have any left. So, I snip off the green florets of the broccoli and mixed it with hot rice. It's surprisingly tasty and I think it's another good way to hide vegetables if your kids don't like broccoli.

These days I enjoy buying live fish from Sheng Siong supermarket as it is so cheap. Imagine S$7.90 for a live seabass? We love having steamed fish and I will make steamed fish every time hb is home. Kimi is just like papa and loves fish, especially steamed whole fish. He can eat 1 whole side of a fish on his own. :)

Oops, just realised that my placemat is so crumpled! Haha! Must iron next time *blush* !

Bento #63 - Caveboys!

2010-08-23T23:19:00.004+08:00

Hearty Beef Stew, coloured cubed rice decorated with fish floss for the hair, nori for facial features, ham and nori for their animal skin clothes, cocktail sausage for their clubs, broccoli and corn

I've not done any bentos for the past week cos I was too busy and too tired. Since I had a little time today, I made 2 little caveboys that was inpired by the Bento Book which Lia gave to me.

Last week we had the gas-man to check on my cooking hob and he confirmed it was leaking so they disconnected it and I am without any cooking gadget till we buy another replacement. So, I'm left with making 1 pot meals using either the steamer, rice-cooker, slow cooker or oven. It's not too bad now that I'm getting used to it. :)

Our 1 pot-meal for dinner today is Beef Stew with rice instead of potatoes. It's a little cool tonight as it was raining in the afternoon till early evening so it is so wonderful to tuck into steaming hot rice and Beef Stew, yums!

I used tomato ketchup to tint 1 of the caveboys red/orangey and tumeric dissolved in water for the other yellow caveboy. However, the ketchup didn't make the boy look orangey enough. Maybe colouring would be better. Well, next time. :)

Kimi Speaks .... I want a pet

2010-08-23T22:05:00.000+08:00

These days, Kimi has been asking for a pet. He also has been parroting me all the time - action and speech. I tell you, it can be rather irritating. The other day when Kimi asked for a pet again, this was what I told him.

Kimi : Mama, can I have a pet?
Me : Pet? We already have a pet.
Kimi : (excitedly) Huh? Where?
Me : Kimi, you go and stand in front of that mirror there. Go. (the large mirror in our hall).

Kimi stood there and asked me where is the pet.

Me : You! My parrot. Our pet.
Me, hb & Kimi : *Burst out laughing!*

After 10mins and in our bedroom, Kimi came up to me and said.

Kimi : Mama, you have 2 parrots, me and papa!

Me : Lol!

More Bento Pressies

2010-08-23T21:45:00.000+08:00

I've been getting pressies after pressies these few weeks and I really feel so loved and blessed! Thank you all, my dear friends and family!

Julie gave me a bagful of Bath & Bodyworks products - hand sanitisers of all sorts and handcream! Wow! And my neighbour Karen, bought these for me during her recent trip home to Ipoh.

Round cutters and super cute and small Thomas Snack box - I love it! Great for 2 small sealed sammies? :)

Bento tools that Karen Hoh helped me to buy

What a SURPRISE!!

2010-08-16T23:25:00.001+08:00

The Cover

So many tips and steps and cute bentos too!

Firstly, I just want to say "THANK YOU, Lia for blessing me with this wonderful book!"

I was screaming with joy literally when a good friend and bento-mama sms me and told me I had won the book which Lia had organised. I was shocked for a while and couldn't remember what it was. Then it hit me! I couldn't believe it!! Me? Winning the book? I've never had such 'luck' with draws and what nots.

I could only say it was, "All Glory to Jesus!". Cos I remembered as I entered in the give-away, I told Jesus that I really liked that book. I had never expected that I would be Blessed. How loving our Abba Father is? He not only blesses us with big things but listens to our hearts and can't wait to show His love to us. What a Loving and Mighty God we serve!

We have been looking at the book from cover to cover and Kimi has been telling me he wants this and that. Really, the designs are so intricate, I'm not sure iff I can replicate it!

Once again, Thank you Lia for this wonderful book!

Bento #62 - Frog & Bear Mini Sammies

2010-08-12T09:51:00.003+08:00

Cherries, banana, tuna mayo & Nutella mini sammies

Can't wait to use the new tools which hb bought for me! So I made tuna mayo and Nutella mini sammies for Kimi's breakfast today and served in his new Anpanman lunch box. Of course, he could only finish 2 of the sammies so hb & myself ate the other 2. :)

I love this frog, bunny & bear print set! Instead of using the cutter that came with it, I imprint them on the sealed mini sammies.

Look here for other great Charaben Bentos! :)

Writing Kimi

2010-08-11T23:44:00.000+08:00

Big trunk and 4 skinny legs of an elephant!! Haha! I scribbled a mahout(elephant keeper) on the elephant's back when Kimi asked me to.

I happened to look back at my pix folder and found this piece which Kimi drew and wrote his name while waiting for me. We were at Jelic as I was keen to enrol Kimi in their class. So, he drew an elephant and scribbled his name on the body. Not sure if u can make it out as his 'm' is not complete. But it is a great effort already, Well done! :)

Kimi started on his Jelic class with Enbi today. :) While Enbi is totally focused, my little one came out for a hug, kiss, etc, etc after each task. Pray that Kimi will focus better.

I need to jump on my trampoline!

2010-08-11T22:56:00.010+08:00

Well, that's what Kimi tells us these days. Or he will say, I need more exercise so I need to jump on my trampoline now!

We just bought a trampoline for Kimi and left it in the hall (yes, my place not only looks like a nursery, it is also looking like a gym now!) so that he has full access to it anytime.

The benefits for trampolining are plenty and therapists are now using it as a tool for ADHD and other learning disorders children. It helps to promote better gross motor skills and has the capability to calm them down. Not that Kimi has ADHD, however, he is like an Energizer bunny so it is a good idea to have a trampoline for him to expend his energy.

The trampoline was delivered on Tuesday, 10/8/10 and so far he has been jumping on it and loves it! After a few jumps, Kimi has came up with his own jump moves - counting from 1-20 while punching in the air alternating his hands.

And he has also tried the jump in the air and doing a split move! I almost fell off the chair when I first saw this. Now although I know it is safe cos he knows how to do it but the thing is, he is trying to jump higher. So, I have to repeatedly remind him of the rules for safe trampolining. :)

Since this is originally for adults, the hb has jumped on it and I can use it too. There is a sale on this now at only S$145 from Aibi. So far so good, everyone seems to be enjoying it so it is a great buy. Thanks Charmaine for the great recommendation! :)

My Doting Hubby & Bento Tools

2010-08-11T22:24:00.002+08:00

My hubby is someone we would call 'wood'. He is the strong, silent type. He don't really talk much and mostly his actions speak more.

Over the years that he has been flying, he never once complained whenever I ask him to buy something for me. Big things, small things, personal things. The things I've asked him, you would never believe it! Many many years ago, I only prefered a certain washing detergent from the UK. So, my poor hb would lug them back in boxes for me. I've long grown out of that brand.

Many times, he has to walk, hike and hunt for my stuff but he never complains. He just do it. Yes, just like NIKE - Just Do it. If he can't find it in 1 place, he would try in another. Yes, that was what happened when he couldn't find my FitFlops during his last trip - he had to scour a few places.

It didn't occur to me that it was anything usual until a very close friend pointed this out to me. She revealed not many would do the same. Well, I would do the same too for hb or good friends. :) Perhaps that's why we are married - we are of the same kind. :)

This time, I gave him a list and made him take the MTR to New Territories, walk the industrial roads to find my bento tools and here are my latest loot!!

I've been eyeing this mini sandwich sealer for so long but have been putting it off as it was rather costly. But, it is more affordable at this shop so I jumped right in! No regrets!! Picks and mini cutters

Kimi chose the Anpanman bento box, Frog sandwich cutter and imprint, tulip sausage cutter and rice moulds. See the elephant in yellow? Kimi loves elephant and I thought it was easier to use a mould to get an elephant shape than to mould by hand

Having said all these, I still find it hard to give up and I simply love to use Fairy dishwashing detergent and I am into my last bottle. So hon, next trip to London, you know what to do ya? :) Thank you Papa for buying all these stuff for me over the years!

Alive Gallery @ Downtown East!

2010-08-10T23:45:00.005+08:00

This whole week Kimi is at home cos Monday is a public holiday while Tuesday is a school holiday for National Day Celebration. And due to some landlord takeover issues at his school premise, the school is closed for the next 3 days till it reopens on Monday.

Hence, decided to bring Kimi to have a look at the Alive Gallery which seemed rather interesting. We had initially planned to have a playdate cum baking/bento session at Serene's place but I thought it was cancelled.

Nevertheless, Estelle joined us and the kids had a great time. Well, not so much that they appreciated the art pieces except for the interactive Mona Lisa, they enjoyed running around together! Haha!

However, Kimi did remember Mona Lisa and The Last Supper and was telling hb about Mona Lisa. We also spoke briefly on our way home about the significance of the Holy Communion. :)

Taking a quick pix with Kylie

Then with Estelle

We are not supposed to eat inside but the kids took a quick snack ... sharing their fries and chicken tenders together

After lunch, we headed to Polliwogs instead as the charges were exhorbitant at Xplorer Kids! The kids had the most fun here!! As we made our way back, Kimi kept telling me he had good fun today. :)

Their favourite pit stop!

Goodness! They must have jumped at least a 100 times here! Look how Kimi grabs Estelle's hands and jumped! Eveytime they jumped, my heart jumped twice.

Bento #61 - Doggie

2010-08-06T14:49:00.004+08:00

Broccoli, crispy fried chicken drum, fragrant pear, corn, doggie onigiri decorated with turkey ham, nori and blueberry for nose, rambutan and blueberry skewer

This is Kimi's first lunch bento as the school is celebrating National Day. Hence it is combining all 3 sessions into 1 and extending it from 2 hours to 3. Since he will be in school during lunch hour, I decided to pack lunch for him in case he didn't want the food in school.

Kimi requested for this doggie onigiri (after seeing it at Lia's) and 2 chicken wings. But I couldn't get any fresh drumlets so gave him 1 drumstick instead.

In the end, when he brought the box home, he had left the onigiri and broccoli untouched cos he said he didn't have enough time to finish. Sigh, yes, Kimi eats very slow...

The school is having a mini Olympics theme for National Day's celebration. Will post pix if there are any of Kimi's in another post after the school has put up the images.

Bento #60 - Chick Chick

2010-08-05T23:38:00.001+08:00

This is a post of many firsts. :) This is my first hand shaped onigiri, my first time making tamagoyaki and my first week of making so many bentos. Usually, I would make 1 or 2 a week and they aren't much of a bento. I call them plating cos it's what I make for Kimi's breakfast.

I'm so happy and really enjoyed the process of making these charaben. Even Kimi will ask me what bento he will be having. :) I hope I will be able to continue to make at least 1 or 2 each week.

In this bento : Hand moulded rice chick onigiri, decorated with nori, 2 corn kernels and ketchup for blushing cheeks. Xiao Bai Cai stir fry with abalone mushrooms, corn, tamagoyaki, salmon stew, cherry tomato. I used purple potato for the stew hence it became rather dark.

Steamed Chicken with Lilybulbs and Wood Ear

2010-08-05T17:25:00.010+08:00

My neighbour, Karen shared this dish with me some time back and I loved it so much that I decided to recreate it.

It is really simple and I love how the subtle taste of each ingredient is amplified when we put all of it together! An easy on the palate kind of dish. :)

Ingredients

250g fresh chicken, skin removed (I used a mixture of fillet and drum)
2 pcs of Wood Ear, soaked, clean and cut in small pieces
2 Fresh Lilybulbs, cleaned and separated
8 pcs of small Dried Chinese Mushrooms
1-2 shallot sliced thinly
1 thumb of ginger, sliced
1/2 tsp of sugar
1/2 tsp of grated ginger
1/2 tsp of grated garlic
Light soya sauce
Dash of pepper
5-7 tbsp of Chinese Wine
2-3 Fresh Basil leaves

Method

Marinate chicken with grated ginger, garlic, light soya sauce, sugar, pepper and chinese wine for at least an hour
Add in sliced ginger, basil leaves, shallots and lilybulbs.
Mix well and steam till just cooked.
Enjoy!

Tips

I will add some water in to the dish as I like it with more gravy - so yummy with rice!

My Playschool. Net

2010-08-05T00:57:00.002+08:00

My Playschool.net

Have you always wanted to do some home-learning with your pre-schooler to build up your bonding with them or just simply to enrich their minds? And you don't know where to start?

Last week, Pauline contacted me and asked if she could feature one of my past home-learning post in her site. I was so thrilled and honoured and never expected that anyone would be keen to read what I do with Kimi since my blog entries are more like a digital diary. I was also worried if my post would measure up.

Well, if you guys know Pauline and Rachel, they are one of the best in home-learning. In fact, I was so inspired by Pauline that led me down the home-learning path. After a while, I came to know Rachel and she too, has some really fabulous ideas in home-learning and parenting. For me, it is a boon as they are both Christian mummies and that is important to me. Just like all Christian mums, we want our kids to be well-grounded in God's ways and to have Godly friends.

Back to My Playschool. This is the brainchild of Pauline and Rachel and the site is breaming with useful home-learning articles, teaching ideas, resources, workshops, other home-learning blogs, etc, etc. Basically, it is armed with everything you need to know and all the right tools to get you started on your home-learning journey. Yes, everything is there in that site, unbelievable? Yes!

Home-learning is relatively new in Singapore and at times, resources can be limited and we have to make our own. Sometimes, we don't even know where to start. Has that ever happended to you before? Yes? Now, you know where you can head on to - My Playschool - for the best in home-learning resources and networking!

By the way, here's my feature .... Learning The Letter D. You know, when I looked at this past post, I felt so nostalgic - both sad and happy. Happy that we had so much fun learning and sad that time just flew by like that. Looking at Kimi then, he was just a little baby! Goodness! He has grown so MUCH!!! Oh, how I miss his baby face, stubby fingers and round tummy! :)

Ok, enough. Quick get to My Playschool now! :)

Bento #59 - Shark Attack!

2010-08-04T19:02:00.001+08:00

Broccoli, carbonara pasta, sausage octopus and sharks made with sausage, nori and cheese cut-outs

Kimi requested for a shark themed dinner and Thank God I found a shark bento in my archives. There were no planning so the bento looks rather messy and disorganised!

I also forgot to put in Kimi's favourite corn for better colour and perhaps a cherry tomato. Well, when you are in a rush, everything is crazy. But, after when we look at it, we will ask ourselves why we didn't add this or that! Lol! Oops, just realised that the shark's tail is bent too! Haha!

We had this rather awful Quick Carbonara in a packet for dinner. I think the Alfredo flavour is better. But, nothing beats homemade. :)

Bento #58 - Musical Tortoise

2010-08-01T21:58:00.001+08:00

Tortoise made from steamed green tea cake, lined with nori for the shell and sausage for the head, more cocktail sausages, fragrant pear cut in blossom shape, blueberry and edamame skewers

I was in quite a rush this morning while preparing this snack bento for Kimi for church. Hence, after putting everything in, I realised that the box was a little deep for the small tortoise and I can't really capture it on pix. So I removed the corn and turned it a little. I did not have any time to re-arrange it.

Sigh, a little disappointed with today's haphazard bento. Kimi currently likes turtles/tortoises so this is the inspiration for today's bento. Hope Kimi likes it! :)

Post update : When I picked Kimi after church, he told me he was very upset as another boy wanted to grab and eat his food. The boy touched his food and even overturned some of it. So, Kimi only had the sausages and a bit of the corn. :(

Bento #57 - Domo Kun

2010-07-29T22:54:00.000+08:00

Japanese Curry on the left, Domo Kun crispy fish fillets with watermelon mouth, cheese and nori details, white rice under Domo Kun, broccoli, corn and edamame skewers

We had a simple dinner of home-made crispy fish fillet and Japanese Curry. I chose Domo Kun as it is the simplest to cut the fish fillet out.

Unfortunately, I made the mouth and eyes before frying and just guess-timated. I feel it is a little undersized so my poor Domo Kun looks a bit off.

But Kimi loved it and finished his dinner very quickly. :) We love Japanese Curry!

Bento #56 - Wooly Bear

2010-07-27T23:48:00.002+08:00

Broccoli, cherry tomatoes, corn, panfried salmon, bear onigiri with pork floss, turkey ham & nori facial details

I was inspired by Karen, another bento-mummy for her floss covered bear ongiri. And I was also keen to introduce pork floss to Kimi. I tried it before but he simply disliked it. Armed with a small pack which I had bought last week, I made some sammies the other day and so far, he seems to like it! Yay!! Next, I'll intro the fish floss cos, frankly, I'd prefer that, my personal favourite! Yummy! Fish floss sammies are so yummy!!

It was a little hard to mould as the rice were not wet/starchy enough. Although I had already wet the mould before putting in the hot rice, it was still rather grainy. And I never expected that the floss would take some effort to stick on! Really not easy. Perhaps more practice as this is my first 'coated' onigiri.

I served the bento with a bowl of Beetroot & Corn Soup but this time I added some Bitter & Sweet Almonds. He lapped everything up leaving behind 1/3 of the rice and 1 cherry tomato. That's fine cos I've given him a large piece of salmon.

After dinner I gave him a medley of mango, fragrant pear, blueberries & longan.

By the way, I submitted this entry to "What's for Lunch at our House" where Shannon showcases what other bento-mummies are doing. Rather interesting, click on here to see what other creations.

Bento #55 - Happy Lemon Brekkie

2010-07-27T20:25:00.004+08:00

Happy Lemon shaped sandwiches filled with peanut butter & jam, cheese and ham details, golden kiwi, blueberries & sugar prune

Yesterday we went to ION and passed by this bubble tea shop and immediately Kimi asked for it. I heard some raves about it and can't wait to try it too. :)

I thought the little girl looked so cute and decided to recreate it this morning for Kimi breakfast. Pity, I couldn't find anything red in my house (ran out of apples) that I could use for the eyes and mouth. So, I settled on using the ham... really looked washed out.

A little disappointed but Kimi enjoyed this PBJ sandwich, I'm so happy!! Hopefully he will start to enjoy bread from now. Keep on praying. :)

Bento #54 - Seal Brekkie

2010-07-26T23:55:00.003+08:00

Home-made Cheese pancake with nori details on turkey ham, blueberries & longan

Super rush today as Kimi woke very late. So, I just made a quick pancake sandwiched with slices of La Vache quirit (Laughing Cow) Ham Flavoured cheese. I was so rushed, I just dumped everything in.

Art Class - Project #5

2010-07-24T23:22:00.000+08:00

Today marks the end of Project #5 and they will start another new theme next week.

After reading a short Dinosaur story to the kids, Teacher Maria asked them what they would like to add in the background. Kimi refused and only added some soil and stone on the ground and a dark cloud. As there weren't as black.grey paint around, Kimi just took some green and drew. He told Teacher Maria that dark clouds were coming

Then, when he saw his classmate painted polka dots on her dino, both Kimi and the other boy wanted to do the same! Teacher continued to reiterate on what is background, foregound, etc.

Bento #53 - Chicky Family Brekkie

2010-07-23T15:02:00.003+08:00

3 chicks representing papa chick, baby chick & mama chick. All made with bread and filled with egg mayo. I used the heart-shaped pick for the crowns and beaks, nori for eyes and ketchup for their blushing cheeks. Added a corn gummy to show them enjoying the corn together, blueberries in a chicky egg-cup and a banana

Inspired by Racial Harmony Week, I decided to do a Happy Family theme. I think all things start from family? If we are happy at home, we can learn to be gracious and live alongside with others right?

I saw Alice making some really cool bread onigiri and thought I tried it out using egg mayo as filling. Kimi doesn't like cheese and egg now so I am still trying to re-train him although he ate these foods everyday when he was small.

Somehow, the bread onigiri don look as round and smooth as Alice's. Not sure it's the bread or my method. Hmm, I must find out. :) If anyone knows, pls tell me ok?

Racial Harmony Week

2010-07-23T14:47:00.002+08:00

This week Kimi's kindy celebrated Racial Harmony Week and the kids had foods from the 4 major ethnic groups in Singapore on each day. They started their 'food feast' on Tuesday with Vegetarian Bee Hoon for Chinese, bringing in their own chopsticks and utensils. I was nicely surprised when Huang Laoshi told me that Kimi finished his portion including the fishballs. Kimi do not like to eat fishballs at all!

Then on Wednesday, they tore at Roti Prata with their stubby fingers and Kimi relished in 3 servings of non-spicy Mee Goreng on Thursday. I think the kids loved today most - it was nuggets, fries and baked beans! They even had cake as 1 of their classmate had a birthday celebration today.

Eveyday this week, the kids would learn about the different ethnic groups. It ended with the kids wearing their favourite ethnic costume today. Kimi told me when I picked him up, that his teacher said he looked very nice today! Haha!!

Kimi posing with Harry before leaving for school

It would be really nice if we could get a Finnish or Norwegian costume when he is a little older. :) Anyway, I think Kimi had lots of fun this week and although he struggled to go to school on Monday and Tuesday, it eased a little from Wednesday. Kimi's separation anxiety is getting better! All Praises to Jesus!

Kimi wanted to display his kung-fu prowess just as we were leaving. I think he felt 'empowered' as he don the kung-fu suit! Lol!

Bento #52 - Boy Bear

2010-07-21T15:28:00.000+08:00

A simple butter and chocolate bread sandwich cut out using a bear rice mould cutter and decorated with 2 kinds of cheese and nori, rambutans and golden kiwi

Got this bear idea from Alice, she makes wonderful snack bentos too and does an awesome 3D bear! Quick and easy for me. :)

Singapore Garden Festival

2010-07-19T23:15:00.003+08:00

We went to the SGF to experience it since we missed the show since it started. It's nice to see more Singaporeans getting interested in gardening.

It was a little boring for the boys till they got to Level 4 where there were more interesting hand-ons for them like getting a weaved bird, drawing on interactive screens and learning about the different trees and leaves. I felt this was more real for them. Level 6 was too 'mature' and 'arty farty' for them to appreciate. :)

Anyway, nice to see familliar faces again! :)

My personal favourite - garden balconies

Kimi observing the lady weaving a bird out of a leaf

Kimi showing his little leaf bird

The 2 boys bouncing the birds

Bento #51 - Aliens & A Mouse

2010-07-18T23:54:00.000+08:00

Sweet corn, wiener shaped mouse, blueberry skewer, edamame skewer, pear cut in space-ship shape and nutella pandan bread sandwich cut with tulip cutter and decorated with cheese and nori

Another snack box for church and today's theme is aliens! A little mouse went up the moon and met 3 alien friends and 2 more cute-faces aliens. Actually Kimi liked the aliens from Toy Story but I had no time to re-create that so this pacman-like alien will suffice. :)

SAM - Art Garden, Children's Season

2010-07-18T23:36:00.001+08:00

I've been wanting to bring Kimi to this exhibition cos I heard so many good things about it but never had the opportunity. Finally, I told myself, I had to get there by hook or by crook. And, yes, we did, on the last day of the exhibition, after church. :)

Overall, it is good as the many reviews had said. We spent a nice afternoon there. So glad we managed to catch 1 free screening of ABC Soup. This is so cute and hilarious! It showcases a few Weimaraners posing as humans using all the alphabets to make a yummy soup. And along the way, the kids are introduced to all the alphabets and the words that starts with the corresponding alphabets. We loved the show and Kimi laughed so hard too! Such a pity, we couldn't catch the rest of the screenings. There's an exceprt here .

The cute and oh-so obedient dogs :)

Hop, hop, hop, hop like a rabbit!

Kimi asking me to take a pix of the 'castle' he has built with the few bean bags he could get his hands on. Love his ingenuity to work with how little he has. :)

The Floribots made from origami and grows and blossoms into a flower

The Enchanted Forest - One of Kimi's favourite as there were all sorts of animals in it!

Besides the elephant, Kimi also loved tigers

Kimi doing some colouring after some urging from me

He wanted to colour it blue and black - must be he remembered how the Blue Morpho Butterfly looked like. Alot of impatience in this piece of work I would say. Totally ignored the boundaries. :(

Kimi trying to cut out the shape of the butterfly

In the end, we had a good laugh as the butterfly got butchered literally. Kimi looked at me and we both burst out laughing! I think he knew that the poor butterfly had quite a fair bit of 'wings-trimming! lol!

The Funky Forest - Kimi liked this too as it was very interactive. See how the river diverts its flow when Kimi stood in front of it?

And trees can grow according to your movements. Cute!

Night Festival @ Museum

2010-07-16T23:04:00.003+08:00

Singapore is getting more exciting! The Singapore Museum organised a Night Festival for 2 nights with activities and shows for young and old. As hb had to work on Saturday, we decided to go on Fri after Kimi's SM class.

We were keen on the shadow and string puppet show, The Red Tree performed by Thai puppeteers. Overall, I would say that the storyline can be a little overwhelming for the young ones, however, the interesting play of lights, shadows and puppets and the ever-changing scenes made the show enjoyable.

The story is adapted from award winning Shaun Tan’s famous picture book. It tells of the journey of a girl who seems impassionate to this world as she passes helplessly through many dark moments, yet ultimately found what made her world brighter again. - National Museum, Singapore

The little puppet girl. She is very small, about 40-50cm. Pity, we did not get to take pix with it or touch it.

Initailly I tried to reason and think about the plot and all. But, I felt rather disconnected and found it incredulous. In the end, I'd reckon to best enjoy the show was to just take in the 'sights'. That is, to just relish in the play of lights, props and scenes. To think too much about what the plot is about or what or where the protagonist is going really kills the joy of watching.

But, most importantly, Kimi loved the show. He quickly related the story to hb when it ended. Hb couldn't join us as he could not find any parking and was late.

When we came home, Kimi insisted on setting up a mini stage/screen using my poster bed curtains and his soft toys. I made some funny characters as 'shadow puppets' with my hands to tease him. He had lots of fun pretend playing before bed.

Hama Fun!

2010-07-11T22:45:00.000+08:00

I just realised that I had forgotten to blog about these wonderful beads - Hama Beads. These can be bought at Growing Fun. We made this in January and Kimi had lots of fun with it.

You can use the stencil and follow the colour or just create your own. Iron on it and it becomes a rigid display! Excellent for training fine motor.

Kimi, concentrating intensely

The finished whale

A Fire-ful and Hort Day!

2010-07-10T23:13:00.003+08:00

We did so much today! After Art, we went to visit the Seng Kang Firestation with Karen and Kylie but I had totally forgotten that it starts from 9-11am. We were there close to 11am and they were just finishing a tour for a group of childcare kids.

Although it was supposed to be closed at 11, they were very kind and allowed the kids to play with the fire hose, put out a fire and roam about and photo-taking. Thank God for His favour! Else, the kids would have been very disappointed. This is our 2nd visit to a Fire Station and we intend to do another round at Central Fire Station the next time! :)

Kimi asked to take pix with this fireman, Kylie and Karen

Kimi's favourite!

After taking pix in the back cabin, Kimi boldly asked the fireman if he could sit in the front cabin instead. See how happy he is?

Another one of Kimi's favourite vehicle - the bike

After the firestation visit, we went for lunch at a nearby mall before going home to shower and get ready to pick Charmaine for a next round of playdate. This time, to Hort Park. Kimi made some new friends. I hope we can get together again so the kids can play together again!

As Kimi did not nap, we didn't spend too much time there. But, definitely, we will be back!

Playground galore!

Good climbing!

Climbing with Ju

Charmaine's friend's daughter, Kaylene, she's so sweet ya? Kimi requested to take a pix with her! Cheeky boy!

Art Class - Project #4 & 5

2010-07-10T22:04:00.005+08:00

This is the finished piece of the canvas parrot that Kimi did last week which I had forgotten to post. Besides the last project's Elephant.. this got to be by far my favourite. Oh oh, hope I won't keep saying that week after week? I like it cos it is on canvas and the colours are just awesome. Love the blends!

As promised, Teacher Maria started with Dinosaur theme this week. Actually, Kimi wanted a 3D papier-mache but they did a 2D drawing instead. Before lesson, Teacher Maria showed them some books first before giving them some pieces of scrunched up paper/newspaper, toilet rolls and got the kids to 'assemble' the dino before sketching.

I thought that is such a clever way! There were many different pieces of shapes and sizes for the kids to choose - necks, body, legs, etc. The kids have to use a little thinking to see which goes where. Example, there are few sizes of ovals which they have to decide which is for the head and which is for the body.

Teacher Maria has also started a sketch book for the kids to log their work. Below is Kimi's sketch of the dinosaur before he transferred to the art paper.

I love how Kimi confidently draws the tail at the exact placing where a tail should be

Is dino smiling yet?

Instead of drawing like everyone else, a side profile dino, Kimi said he wanted his dino to turn and look at him and smile.

Teacher Maria said she loves Kimi's bold and creative style. Kimi also said that dinos must be VERY big so he wanted to fill his paper with the dino. :)

Bento #50 - Fruit Snack Box

2010-07-09T22:25:00.006+08:00

Grapes, oat crackers, water-melon & mango cubes

Just a quick snack box for Kimi before SM class today. No cute details, nothing. Just a quick fruity snack box with cute picks which Kimi loves. :)

I love this new lunch box which I got from Daiso as the size is just nice and great for small snacks. I also got the other smaller sized box which is great too!

Bento #49 - Froggies Breakfast

2010-07-07T13:15:00.003+08:00

Butter sandwich, mango cut in fish shape and placed in an egg cup that comes with a frog pick

A simple pandan bread with butter and cut out into frogs. Lately, Kimi seems to love frogs! If anyone sees any frog picks, pls let me know ya? Tks!!

Salmon Pockets

2010-07-06T23:26:00.002+08:00

Wanted to do something different with the salmon I bought today, other than grilling, steaming, panfry and/or baking. So I bought a ready-made puff pastry and made a simple salmon filling. The puff pastry was rather fluffy and crisp except I felt it was not buttery enough.

Overall, it was a yummy dinner that was relatively easy and quick to do and minimal washing-up. You can substitute with any fillings, sweet or savoury as you wish. :)

Kimi's version - smaller pockets with broccoli. I had wanted to make a penguin shaped pastry as I added half a boiled quail's egg which looked like the tummy. But, it did not look anything like a penguin!! I should have cut out the shape after sealing the 'package'. Never mind, try again next time.

I had mine with some salad

Recipe

Fresh salmon marinated with salt & pepper
Mixed vegetable
Mayonnaise
4-6 quail's eggs, hard boiled
1 egg, beaten
Cheese (optional)
Puff pastry

Method

Lightly pan-fry salmon till just cooked, remove and use fork to loosen meat
Add pre-boiled mixed vegetable to salmon
Mix in mayonnaise and cheese
Roll out pastry as per package's instruction
Cut out desired shape and brush beaten egg over
Scoop some of the salmon mixture, add quail's egg and fold over the pastry
Use a fork to seal the edges
Brush beaten egg over the pockets
Bake in 220 Degrees Celsius oven till golden brown

Tips

The best way to make a triangle pocket (or any other design) is to lightly fold over 1 pc of rolled out pastry sheet into 2. Then cut the triangle leaving the folded edge un-cut. This way as you open up the cut-out pastry, you can fold it easily back after putting in the filling.

Flight of Colours

2010-07-05T23:45:00.002+08:00

Today being Youth Day and a holiday for Kimi, he asked me to bring him to Jurong Bird Park and I roped in my neighbour, Karen and her sweet gal, Kylie with us.

Kimi wants to take a pix with every cow he meets.. remember at Farmart too?

Not forgetting his adored swans.. See, grabbing tightly onto his guinea pig, Brownie

At the entrance

Feeding at Lorry Loft - what a brave boy!

Then, Kimi said he wanted the bird to sit on his cup as he saw a lady doing that. This bird was rather impatient and greedy. So, Kimi was a bit apprehensive. Anyway, the bird pecked at Kimi's thumb and knocked off some skin! But Kimi still held onto the cup bravely as he didn't want to upset the cup and the bird can't feed on it! If it was me, I would've have thrown the cup and screamed!! In the end, I had to shoo the bird away and it wanted to peck me too! Rather aggresive bird!

But, Kimi regained his confidence and wanted to try his hand on these birds a little further down the bridge. I was so proud of his bravery and perservering spirit!

The birds decided to hold the cup themselves, haha!

At the entrace of the Penguins exhibit

The kids decided to act cute

Kimi grabbing his favourite macaw

Bento #48 - Shaun The Sheep

2010-07-04T21:25:00.000+08:00

Grapes, banana and a multi-grain nutellla sealed sandwich. Shaun The Sheep in cheese cut-outs with nori. Farm animals picks to complete the bento

This is a simple snack bento I made for Kimi for church as we attended the 2nd service today. With an early lunch, it would be good to give him a more substantial snack. :)

I got this idea from Isaac's Castle and decided to re-create it as Kimi loved Shaun The Sheep. Ya, ya, I know this don't exactly look like Shaun the Sheep... but Kimi could tell it was a sheep. :)

As I laid out the cutters, it all seemed ok. But after cutting and as I was about to assemble, I realised the sheep's face was too small but I did not have any time to re-do so I just used it. I will try it again soon! :)

New Friend, New Finds!

2010-07-03T23:50:00.000+08:00

I've recently met another super nice bento-mummy online and we became fast friends, sharing bento tips and new bento gadgets.

Recently she was in Malaysia and was so kind to help me buy some bento gadgets for me. How Blessed I am!! Thank you Karen!!

By the way, if you are keen to purchase any bento tools/gadgets, pls do visit Karen's FB for new stocks and orders : http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Bento-Gadgets/138176659532750

Look, how beautifully wrapped my 'loot' is!

It was so nice of Karen to share the cupcake her friend, Pick Ling made for her kids with Kimi. Look, Kimi chomped on it before I could take a pix - both ladybugs were gone and Kimi said the cupcake was so delicious. :)

My Loot!!

All For the Fun of Water!

2010-06-30T23:38:00.003+08:00

We decided to let Kimi skip school today cos hb had been travelling non-stop the past weeks and we had so little time together as a family, esp so for hb. I think he felt the need to spend more playtime with Kimi as after 1.5 days rest at home, he will be on another 12 days trip, yet again.

After hearing so much good things about Jurong East Swimming Complex, we decided to try it out although there is a similar one at the estate we lived. Best of all, the charges are same as any other public pools despite the slides, rides and wave pool. :)

As we arrived in Jurong town, it started to rain rather heavily. I urged Kimi to pray to God for the rain to halt so we can proceed to the other part of Jurong where the pool was. As always, God was faithful and as we pulled into Jurong East, the sun was shining and the dark clouds did not chase us!

In fact, it was cloudy with enough sun for a warm time yet not scorchingly hot. God loves His little children and their simple faith!! The rain continued the moment we pulled out of the driveway of the complex. Amazing? Yes! That is my God, He answers ALL Prayers, no matter how small or big as long as we call out to Him. Hallelujah! All Glory to Jesus!

Here's some pix of a beautiful family time spent together!

A father and son shot

The slides!!!

Kimi can't wait to jump in the pool

Going with papa on the lazy river on a float

Moving towards the water jets!

How refreshing!

Then, the wave pool can on (once every hour) and both father and son went on it with the float

Then they decided to go without it during the next wave ....

Enjoying the waves

Kimi venturing on his own - he's never afraid of waves even at a young age ... he loves water!

Conpoy And Daikon Superior Broth

2010-06-27T21:22:00.012+08:00

Saw this lovely soup on a food channel some time back and decided to try it cos it was such an easy recipe. Yet, the taste is so clear, flavourful and rich, I like!

Recipe (serves 4)

4 extral large conpoy (about size of 50cents coin, better if can get larger ones
1 daikon, cut in 4 thick slices
Handful of red dates

Method

Place all ingredients in slow cooker.
Let it simmer on high for 3 hours.
Do not stir, remove conpoy carefully with ladle and place on serving plate on top of a slice of daikon.
Serve hot and ENJOY!!

Daiso New Finds-Cutters Galore!

2010-06-26T23:42:00.001+08:00

The new 1 slice-no-wastage sandwich cutter

With these 4, I've completed collecting the new mini cutter series. Hb got the Whale (No. 3) for me in Japan earlier

Not new stock, just I couldn't get them earlier

Bento #47 - Transport Lunch

2010-06-24T23:14:00.001+08:00

Broccoli, edamame sticks (see 1 stick missing? As I went to grab my cam, Kimi gobbled it down! lol!), Happy faces, fish fingers, sausage, corn and ketchup in car container.

Since I needed to pick hb almost about lunch hour, I decided to pack a 'finger-food' lunch so Kimi can eat in the car. Also I brought Kimi to trim his hair in the morning and was running late.

This bento only took 15-20 mins cooking and packing hence I did not do any cutesy or facial stuff. Just cook, pack and put cute picks. :)

Bento #46 - Koala & Lizzie

2010-06-23T23:15:00.004+08:00

Smoked salmon and scrambled egg multi-grain sandwich cut in shapes of koala and lizard. Raisins fill the ears and nose of koala while lizard patterns are from ham

No special theme, just wanted to try out the cutters I have on hand. Kimi says he is a koala bear and wants me to carry him like mama-koala. Faint! He's 17+kg, my back is giving way too.

Ever since I bought the sticky, slimy lizard toy from Daiso for him, he likes lizards a lot more. But generally Kimi loves animals, reptiles, not so much insects.

This lizard cutter was a gift from Julie when she came back and it came with it another 49 other cutters. All kinds of animals and critters!! Wonderful, isn't it?? Thanks so much Julie for always always blessing us with things! :)

Bento #45 - Dino & Ballons Breakfast

2010-06-22T10:52:00.000+08:00

Grapes on ballon picks and Dino shaped hotcake/pancake with cheese cut-out

I just found 2 breakfast bento I made some time ago, will share 1 today. I made the hotcake/pancake from Betty Crocker mixture and cut it with Dino shape cutter before decorating with cheese cutouts.

A very simple and fast breakfast bento. Kimi loves the ballons and asked why the Dino is holding 2 and that he, too, wants to have 2 next time! lol! :)

Farmart & Qian Hu Play Date!

2010-06-21T22:22:00.003+08:00

I gathered 2 of my neighbours and their kids and we went to Farmart today. We were very disappointed as most (I would say all) were closed.

But, we managed to feed the goats, rabbits, terrapins, bull frogs, guinea pigs and fishes. So I guess not too bad. The kids however, were thrilled. I guess we have to go during the weekends next time? Nah, I wouldn't like venturing to such places during the weekends, I can smell the crowd from here already now! Lol!

There was a Fish Spa (Doctor Fish) opened and we mummies decided to try it. None of us dared to put our feet in. Immediately, I pictured 'piranhas'!! It was soooo scary cos there were only 3 of us and there were so MANY fishes and they seemed 'hungry'.

Finally the nice shop lady told us the clock was starting. So, we counted to 3, held our breaths and plunged in! The kids had more fun laughing at us. It was scary, exhilarating and hilarious! 3 grown women screaming and laughing. After a while, we settled in and it became bearable and then it was nice. Even Kimi tried it!

Since it was still early, we decided to hop by Qian Hu to see if there was anything interesting. Nothing much. :( Qian Hu also had the Doctor Fish Spa and we could choose from the 3 sizes availabe - the normal very small ones, large and extra large. No way I was going to put my feet in to the X-large fishes pond. Some of the fishes have mouths so big I'm sure it can contain my big toe in 1 gulp (no pun intended).

We had a late lunch at 新旺茶餐厅. The kids were ravenous and the mummies flat out.

When we reached home, Kimi told me that he had good fun today. I'm glad I made him happy today. :)

Kimi, Kylie and Wayne posing with the cows at Farmart

The kids feeding the kids (goat babies of couse! haha!)

Of cos not forgetting bunnies too!

Doctor Fishes! Kimi having therapy with mummy!

The X-large Doctor Fishes at Qian Hu. Do you dare stick your feet in here?

Post Updates

2010-06-19T15:42:00.003+08:00

I know I've been really lag in postings. Here are some I posted these few days :-

1) Playdates at Changi Boardwalk with Ju
2) On the Notice Board
3) Art Class - Project #2
4) The Dandelion's Story By Modl Theatre (Korea)
5) Art Class - Project #3
6) Malacca Drive 4/6/10 to 5/6/10
7) Art Class - Project #4
8) New Daiso Bento Tools
9) Cat at Forum The Shopping Mall
10) Daiso Nori Facial Cutters
11) Butterfly Farm & Waterplay Again!
12) Bento #44 - Dinosaur Breakfast

Bento - #44 - Dinosaur Breakfast

2010-06-19T12:11:00.003+08:00

Dino circle cut-outs from cheese and eyes are made from cheese & nori

A real speedy Dino breakfast made from multi-grain bread with Peanut Butter & Jam spread and a tub of yogurt.

I recently bought this Dynobytes Crust Cutter together with Susan's book, through her recommendation. Look at how beautiful her creation is? As my bread was a little small, I made only 1 dino but Kimi loved the outcome.

Butterfly Farm & Waterplay Again

2010-06-17T22:51:00.001+08:00

It was a last minute decision to go to Oh's Farm to look at the butterflies as I had been telling Kimi that we will visit it again during the June hols with his little friends.

But ever since, he has been nagging me to bring him and with a fever running, I really wasn't keen to go. But after a nice big breakfast I made for the kids (my niece, Sarah stayed for the night), they were raring to go. Popped a panadol and away we went.

First stop, Oh's Farm (somehow, the farm do not look as good as it is depicted in this blog. Maybe no effort was made to maintain it?) to look at the butterflies but the kids were more keen to get their caterpillar kits. :)

After the visit to the park, I love to bring the kids to cool off at Sembawang Shopping Centre's Waterplay Park. Such a nice sweet & cool way to end the outing. :)

Sarah & Kimi at entrance of the Butterfly Lodge

An interesting caterpillar we spotted!

Sarah's favourite butterfly!

What a beautiful sight with all the colourful butterflies fluttering around

Kimi was so happy when I managed to 'catch' a butterfly for him!

Jumping for joy at the water park

Kimi's favourite apparatus there - he's imagining that he's shooting down all the enemy ships and planes! Ha!

At home and quickly examining the kit. We bought 2 kits. 1 of the kit had an normal sized and an ultra tiny caterpillar as there weren't any left.

Update : The normal sized caterpillar pupated the next day!

Kimi happy to hold his caterpillar while Sarah was too frightened to even go too near it.

Daiso Nori Facial Cutters

2010-06-17T12:27:00.001+08:00

So happy to see these at Daiso the other day! Although I already have quite a few cutters. These are good to get too cos the sizes are in between Carla punches and the Multi Shoe punch. But most of all, it is only $2 each!!!

The punches comes in 4 designs and I only managed to get all the 4 designs after visiting 2 branches and mine were the last. Quick grab them if you can!

Cat @ Forum The Shoppping Mall

2010-06-13T23:12:00.004+08:00

Serene asked us to join her for a free play organised by Julia Gabriel at Forum. We met up with Estelle, Reyes (Estelle's cousin) Enbi, Stella and Kayla for the show.

Since it was free, I know it was not easy to get seats so I decided to go early. We were there at 11+ am for a show to start at 1pm. And to think that the after show craft session were full!!! There were only a few slots left for the second show. It was too late so I did not put our names down.

We were 2nd in line for the show and had our lunch, Mac's while queuing up. It was lively and interactive show based on an Australian storybook. The cast were great with their imitations of animal sounds and movements. The kids loved it!

Look at how engrossed Kimi was? Beautiful Auntie June and Stella in the background

Story-telling after the show

Kimi touching the props

New Daiso Bento Tools

2010-06-11T12:34:00.001+08:00

Finally, Daiso brought in some new stocks of pick and other bento tools. These were collected over the last few weeks in June. I don't see these pick, especially the balloon ones on sale anymore.

Heard the animals and transport picks are available at Vivo. But, you know how limited quantity they bring in and how quickly these runs out. Do give a call to reserve before going.

I simply love the animals and transport picks!! Although I already have the balloon picks, I bought another set just in case. You know how easily they can get misplaced? And to think I paid 2-3 times more for it. Oh well...

Bento box separators and Food Drawing Pen

More separators

Animal sauce bottles. The tranport ones were out of stock but a kind bento friend got it for me last week! Yay! Tks Karen!

Art Class - Project #4

2010-06-10T23:01:00.002+08:00

During our Malacca drive, we missed Kimi's art class so Teacher did a make-up class for him individually. As such, he was able to sit with her and completed a handpainted Blue & Yellow Macaw on canvas. To me, it was sooooo beautiful!!

I must say that Teacher Maria is really patient and great with kids! :)

The 1st piece Kimi drew through Teacher Maria's verbal guidance. Exploring the different shapes and sizes of an oval to create a pix.

The left was drawn by Teacher Maria and Kimi copied the one on the right

More practice to get this piece in pencil and then filling it in using different colours to create the macaw by fingers.

Malacca Drive 4/6/2010 to 5/6/2010

2010-06-10T02:20:00.002+08:00

Got woken by hubby at 6 in the morning on Saturday asking if I wanted to drive to Malaysia. The first thing that came to my mind was it safe? After hb assured that it should be alright, I jumped on it excitedly and agreed we will pray about it and trusted in God for a safe journey.

Started packing, not knowing it was just a day trip for food and back home in the evening or to stay a few days. We didn't even know where we'd be going! So exciting right? Anyhow we packed for 2-3 days. In about an hour, we left home.

Upon reaching JB, hb decided we would go to Malacca again. We've not been there since 2005 or 2006 so it would be nice to re-visit our favourite food haunts. We used to go very often just for the weekend when we were sans Kimi.

We arrived at around lunch time and headed to Donald & Lily, a family run eating house serving Peranakan food. Their cendo was to die for. After not eating for a few years, I'm sad to say that the once quaint and personal set-up has become a bit commercialised. There were loads of people eating and the cendol, although many many times better than those found in Singapore, it has somehow lost its home-flavour. Maybe it's just me. But hb also agreed.

My favourite cendol. The fragrance of the gula melaka is amazing!

Malacca has spruced up a lot.. it now has river rides which Kimi adores

Kimi is so fascinated by the many trishaws and their equally many lights and decor! I think it really adds a nice charm and buzz to this little town. :)

On the way back, we stopped by Kukup for seafood dinner and allowed Kimi to soak up some Kelong/Kampong spirit. We saw a sea snake dangling gingerly on a seaplant and other interesting sights. Kimi loves it! I can say for sure, my little one is an outdoor boy. :)

I love the weathered wood and of cos Kimi's stubby cutesy toes!

A family pix

Can you spot Kimi amidst the toys?

As we made our way back, hb saw a Carnival at the side of the road and decided to check it out! Kimi is so enthralled by the roller coaster and insisted to ride on it.

Getting ready to start the ride

Kimi giving a 2-thumbs up and V sign that he loves the ride.

Although it was a last minute trip with zero planning, we enjoyed it very much and we are sure we will be doing another drive really soon! :) This time with a bit more planning. :)

Bento #43 - Mousey Mouse

2010-06-09T16:02:00.004+08:00

Vegetarian fried beehoon with 2 chicken nuggets in mouse disguise and a corn gummy. So happy to use the cute hats picks which I bought. The tails were balloon picks. Eyes and ears are ham and nori cut-outs

A quick lunch bento of fried vegetarian beehoon and 2 chicken nuggets. Again, I got the idea from Susan's book. I love her books! Kimi requested for this Tomica Police Car lunchbox and was so excited to have his lunch with it!

I didn't pack it really tightly as the fruits were served separately and this was a real speedy bento too. :)

Bento #42 Pasta Friends

2010-06-08T22:55:00.007+08:00

Sarah chose this ballerina. I'm ashamed to say how my little ballerina pales in comparison to Susan's. :( Little ballerina made from cheese and ham cut outs and nori for face and bun decoration. The little blue dots are made from apple cut-outs dyed a little with food colouring.

Kimi chose the Kungfu boy which I made from cheese and ham cut-out and apple slices dyed with a little blue food colouring. I totally forgot to place the cheese strips to complete his yukata. And after the travelling, the little boy's face got a little smeared. :(

Claire's simple chick and bear. Can't think of what to make for a 12 year old

I was to make dinner for the kids (Kimi and my nieces) and this was a last minute decision to pack them as cute bentos cos I did not have most of the items I needed for the decoration. But Sarah was so keen so I just made do with whatever I had. I made shaped pasta with meat sauce for the kids.

I'd forgotten my camera and was using my handphone to take these pix and there was really zero lighting at my sis's place so please excuse the bad quality of the pix. These were terribly rushed bentos so the cutting, etc looks a little tacky. But the kids were happy! :)

I'm so happy I finally got my 2 books (Hawaii's Bento Box Cook Book 1 & Book 2) by Susan. Sarah loved the bentos and so did Kimi. The other night when I had just gotten them, Kimi and I just sat there pouring over the pages, admiring them... all the oohs, ahhs and wahhhs! Go grab them if you can!

I love making this pasta cos it has everything in it that kids do not like and they will eat them not knowing what they are eating! FABULOUS! Here's the recipe which is guess-timated cos I do not cook with measuring spoons but I try to be as accurate as I can ok? :)

Tomato Base Meat Sauce Recipe

250g minced meat (of your choice) washed in sieve marinate with ginger juice, pepper and salt
1/2 medium yellow onion chopped finely
4-6 white button mushrooms chopped finely
1 medium carrot shredded finely
4 medium ripe tomatoes chopped
1 corn shaved
1/2 small bottle of Prego Original/Traditional Pasta Sauce
Dash of mixed herbs (optional)
Dash of black pepper (optional)
1 tsp Maggi Chicken Stock granules (no msg)
2 tsp sugar
1 cup water

Method

Season mince for at least 15 mins and panfry in DRY pan over medium fire.
As you fry the mince, use ladle to push at meat to separate the meat and fry till all the water has dried up and starts to brown and emits a fragrance. Remove from pan and place aside.
Add some oil and saute onions till soft and fragrant.
Add the carrot, corn and mushrooms and fry for 2 mins or till slightly soft before adding chopped tomatoes.
Return browned mince to pan and let it mix well.
Pour in the pasta sauce or tomatoe puree and stir till mixed.
Add in seasoning and water.
Simmer for at least 30 mins on low fire slightly covered.
Serve with pasta shapes or pasta of your choice.

Tips

Always taste sauce before adding seasoning, etc as different brands of pasta sauces may have different salt content and some sauce can be rather tart so it is best to taste before adjusting the flavour.
If using chicken stock, you can omit the chicken granules and water.
I usually make a little more so I can freeze up portions for Kimi to eat the following week. This is a good sauce for Shepherd's Pie, Baked Pasta/Macaroni or Baked Rice.
I love this recipe as you can add in different kinds of vegetables like peppers, shredded zucchini and even apples! Experiment and/or add in whatever your child do not like and you will be surprised how they will eat it without really knowing what's inside.
The trick is that it has to be finely chopped so that it 'melts' into the sauce.

When the going gets tough ...

2010-06-01T23:50:00.003+08:00

When the going gets tough, only God can nourish, enrich and fill you.

If you have a few minutes, I want to share this beautiful song with you, Desert by Hillsong Church. Such meaningful lyrics!

This is also Kimi's favourite now and he can sing bits and pieces of it. In fact, after listening to it for the first time, he asked me if the name of the song was Desert. I was rather taken aback but I believe Kimi was led by the Holy Spirit and anything that is done by the Lord, it is always beautiful and perfect.

Art Class - Project #3

2010-05-29T15:08:00.001+08:00

This time round the kids practised tearing up papers and for the next few days, Kimi kept tearing everything!! Oops! But it is good finger practise, we know. :)

They will tear paper into all shapes and sizes and from there Teacher Maria asked them what they can see from the different pieces of paper. I like how she guides the kids. Not by telling them the 'destination' and then 'navigating' their way there. But rather, let them use their creative minds to think what they can achieve with what they have at hand. This is what art is really and all about, isn't it?

Anyway, as usual, Kimi can always see an elephant in everything! Even the clouds in the sky or the bubbles patterns he makes on the shower screen! :)

This is by far, my favourite piece! I love how he managed to get this beautiful 'batik-like' colour and how close the colour is to the real elephants! Wished I could make this into a fabric! Wouldn't that be beautiful?

From the torn paper, they assemble the pieces to see the prototype

Then they re-do it with getting the colour they want, tearing again and assembling it. Kimi says it's his elephant splashing and playing with the water at the river by the rocks! I love his creative and rich imagination! :)

Papa's Big 40

2010-05-19T23:12:00.000+08:00

We didn't go to any fancy restaurants or had a big bash. We wanted to spend a quiet time at home eating all the yummy hawker food we loved.

I remembered it was some 22 years ago when I first baked a birthday cake for hb (then my boyfriend). This year, we decided to have durians instead of a cake since everyone in our household loves it.

It was a lovely evening of close family togetherness - this is what I love most!

Happy Birthday Papa, May the good Lord Bless you, adore you and FAVOUR you!!

We stuffed ourselves silly!

Bento #42 - Sea Creatures

2010-05-19T16:10:00.002+08:00

3 mini octopus sausages, steamed corn, edamame skewers, Calbee Prawn crackers (Kimi's current favourite) and 1 blueberry mashmellow

Our church celebrated Mother's Day cum Pastor Prince's Birthday on 9/5/10 and there were only 2 services, 10am and 2.30pm.

We went for the 10am service with Charmaine and we decided to pack some snacks for the boys as service may stretch beyond 1pm. I'm glad I did cos Kimi was quite hungry and finished everything.

I was so glad to attend service (the 1st service aft Dad passed) cos without the healing from God, I would have turned mad, really. Worship was 30mins in addition to healing and more worship by Pastor. I would say it was almost an hour. God is good and knows my heart and really comforted and healed me, giving me strength. Thank you Jesus!

A Little Joy From New Bento Tools

2010-05-19T15:41:00.002+08:00

Kimi's favourite Fire Engine lunch box, animal picks, cute faces picks, animal cutters, cute hats picks and angel wings picks

I ordered these before Daddy passed. Today I got them in the mailbox and it certainly brought a little joy to me. I like ordering from Mag from Jmama & Baby cos she is so helpful in sourcing for any tools I need and delivery is so prompt. Such a joy to buy from, no hassle and all patience. Tks Mag!

Hope I can use them soon. :)

Bye Loh-Tao (老豆) ！

2010-05-18T17:06:00.002+08:00

"Bye, Loh-Tao (cantonese for 老豆) ! That's what myself and my sis usually say to our dad when we are saying our good-byes to him.

Really, I don't even know where or what to write, say? My dad passed away in the early hours of 2 May 2010 at home. His heart stopped and he collapsed on the floor. My mom only found him later. It was sudden and traumatic for all of us. Very much so for my mom and sis. My sis raced from her flat which is across the field to my mum's place. She had to turn my dad and perform CPR. But when she turned him, she knew dad had left us. Still she persisted.

When the phone rang at 5.27am, I knew something was not good when I heard my sis on the other end. Till today I can still hear the echoes of what my sis said. I couldn't get there any earlier as hb was due to land at 6 that morning.

All I could do was pray, cry, pray and cry and ask God was strength and wisdom on how to handle the situation. And especially to keep the family together and peace during this difficult time. My family are non-believers although my dad was a Lutheran from birth. But he was a backslider and very much followed in the ways of my mom.

I placed all my trust in God and God was as usual, always faithful, always good and a great source of my comfort and strength. As He has promised, everything went so smoothly. And Praise God, my mom received salvation on the night my dad passed.

Last Saturday at Kimi's art class, I saw a copy of the Reader's Digest on the coffee table. Teacher Maria places different kind of reading materials for waiting parents. This immediately brought tears to my eyes. My dad is a big fan of RD and National Geographic and has been subscribing and buying their books for many, many years. So much so when a few months back my mom asked them not to send as my dad has stopped reading, they said it was complimentary to him for being such a loyal customer.

My dad would always encourage us to read, read and read. I grew up reading these and I love them. He, himself was an avid reader and picked up the English language himself. Now, whenever I see the RD, I can't help but feel an emptiness and ache in my heart.

My dad is by birth a Finnish. But, after 40+ years in Singapore, he is very much just like us, enjoys the local food and peppers his speech with 'lahs' and what nots. Most people who have met my dad when he was younger and well, would say how handsome he was, and yes, he was indeed. My dad even boxed at National Level when he was in his 20s for Norway - my dad's favourite sport, boxing!

Daddy was a very easy-going and patient man with little complains or bad things to say about anybody or anything. Although he had a quiet demeanour, he was also rather funny with a wicked, dry sense of humour. Having said that, he was no push-over and was fiercely independent. Even when he was rather weak in his legs, he refused to allow us to support him. Chasing us away saying, "I can walk".

In all my growing up years, I only remembered my dad scolding and using the cloth to discipline me ONCE. And it was something that I did that was really mischievous. I attempted to close the ladder my dad was up on by trying to push the lever up that stablilised the ladder. I wanted to see if the ladder could still balance - DUH!!! Too much cartoons!

The other day as I turned on the tv, Wheels of Fortune came out. Immediately, I felt lousy. This was also 1 of my dad's favourite show and we would sit and watch it together and raced to see who could solve the puzzle first. My dad loved the tv and he absolutely loves Chinese Period Dramas and all things kung-fu. At one time, he insisted we call him 'Ah-Teh" (as in cantonese for 阿爹 that people who lived eons ago addressed their fathers). Of course we refused! So, that resulted in us calling him 'loh-tao' (老豆).

In whatever ways he could, my dad indulged in us. In the days where most parents (when we were growing up in the early 70s) frown on drinking Ribena or anything sweet, my dad insisted that we had a glass each day, drank milk (didn't matter it was chocolate or regular), ice-cream at our discretion and the insistance of eating his homemade cucumber vinegar salad. Obviously, we preferred the other stuff. Oh, how I miss my dad's pancakes! I can still remember the smell and taste. A few years back, I asked him to make them but he has forgotten how to. I believe I can recreate it. :)

As kids, we loved the meatballs my dad made! It was so yummy especially when it was hot and just out of the pan with a slight crisp at the sides. I particulary didn't like them soaked in the brown sauce. So, my dad will keep these aside for me whenever he cooked. Then, it came a time when we didn't want to eat his meatballs cos he was so fired-up about experimenting. Brown sauce is good on its own, well, maybe with a dash of spice is still acceptable. But we really pulled on the brakes when he was throwing in things like sesame oil, 5 spice powder, chilli powder and whatever he could get his hands on in the kitchen! Is this how the phrase, 'cooking up a storm' came about? Haha! Quite a comic character at times!!

An engineer by training and profession, he was quite a prefectionist (maybe i got some of it from my dad) and did everything methodically and was fastidious about putting things back in their places. He was even like this up until just before he passed on. Whenever Kimi was near, he would always remind him to put it back where he took it from. Of cos, my little one never does.

I remembered as my dad was getting on in years, he suddenly became the most kay-po person around. Instead of his usual quiet self, he wanted to know everything! Even when my aunty or friend called, he would asked what they wanted and wanted to know everything we chatted! Haha! It sometimes became rather exasaperating. Oh, and I remembered when hb and I were dating, he refused to allow me to chat with any other boys on the phone!! He would be rather curt with them. He emphasized that I shouldn't fool around. But, these were truly platonic good male friends! Well, that's my dad. :)

And who says that men don cry? I say that real men do! As macho as he is, my dad has such a soft side to him and he would part freely with his money to anyone with a sob story. There were a few times where I saw tears glistening in my dad's eyes whenever he is told a of a sad situation or someone going through a rough patch or an animal that is suffering. He is just so rich in his emotions. A lovely man I would say my dad was.

Kimi brought him much joy the last few years and he was always happy to see Kimi. Kimi, being more affectionate than most kids never fail to kiss and hug Grandpa when prompted and enjoyed hanging out with Grandpa. It was heartwarming to see Kimi sharing his food with Grandpa ever so often.

Kimi and Grandpa enjoying ice-cream at Ikea 2 months back

In the last few weeks, besides God, Kimi was a great comfort to me. It's a wonder how attuned he is to me and my feelings. The other day, I was sitting at the sofa and suddenly I just felt sad. Kimi was playing on the floor with his Lego and Playmobil and he suddenly sprang up and asked me if I was sad. He then asked is it cos I missed Grandpa. I told him yes and he said so innocently, coming close and sitting next to me with his hands on my hair, "Don't be sad, ok mama". And the other day, he told me, "Grandpa passed away already. Don't worry, I will take care of you".

I know as the days come, I will see more and more things that will remind me of daddy and it will sadden me but these are also memories that are so precious that sometimes I feel afraid that I will forget. I think when someone passes on, the thing that we fear most is not able to remember how they sound and look. But, I am comforted that daddy is safe in Jesus' hands and we will meet again in God's Kingdom. Bye Loh-Tao, we love you and you will be missed!

Mini Day

2010-05-15T23:55:00.000+08:00

After the play, we met up with Julie, my mum, sis and the girls and brought them to the Mini Exhibition at Marina.

Lots of freebies here - free car wash for Mini owners by some skimpily-clad young things, go-karting, free cotton candy/popcorn/drinks and pix taking of the old Minis.

Kimi wanting to try out the go-kart. Well, he needs to wait another 9 years to qualify. :)

Claire posing with Kimi

Claire having a go

Kimi attacking the cotton candy and popcorn

Posing in a Mini

The Dandelion's Story by Modl Theatre (Korea)

2010-05-15T23:41:00.000+08:00

An interesting play from Korea, by Modl Theatre. It tells of how everything God created has a purpose and of great importance, even a dog's poo.

Pix coutesy of Serene - inside the theatre

The kids waiting for the show to start

Kimi posing at the play poster

As were were just on time, we couldn't join in the free fringe activities organised by the Museum. What a pity!! But Kimi managed to scribble on the free coloured papers and get to pin up his work. He said it's a monster. (Can you see the pix behind?)

Posing with his friends before we said our goodbyes!

Art Class - Project #2

2010-05-15T14:56:00.002+08:00

In the 2nd project, Teacher Maria taught the kids about the different texture that can be obtained from different paint mediums and objects. The kids went around the house and outdoors to rub and stamp on different things. How fun! Kimi even used his dinosaur for some of the rubbing and transfers!

The kids learnt about spatial differences and overlapping. How a building will look when it is behind, so on and so forth. They also get to select the roofs they like to complete a pix of buildings that is then pasted on the black background.

The 1st week with all the colourful backgrounds

The almost complete work - I forgot to take a pix of the completed work!

On the Notice Board

2010-05-07T14:49:00.001+08:00

Remember this craft we did some time back? I was pleasantly surprised to see it on the Notice Board at Kimi's SM school. I never expected it to be chosen and pinned up. Kimi was so excited to see his work and started relating the story behind the craft.

It's so nice when your little ones remember the things you do with thing fondly. These are the kind of memories of growing up I want Kimi to have and to hold, close to his heart. :)

Playdates @ Changi Boardwalk with Ju

2010-04-24T21:25:00.045+08:00

We decided to bring the boys for a walk after dinner and settled on Changi Boardwalk. However, it started to drizzle as we arrived. Thank God after dinner, it stopped and the evening was nice and cool. We daren't venture too far for fear that it may rain again.

After a short 45mins there, it started to drizzle again so we quickly headed home. We will go back soon so we can take a long walk on the boardwalk. :)

Nice view. Look at how the sky is darkening?

Lovely boats to neighbouring islands. We will take 1 to Ubin one of these days! Can't wait!

The boys chatting - I wonder what is so interesting there

Kimi doing a bit of cycling

Then the silly papa decided to cycle too! The kids laughed so loud and so hard!

Kimi wanted to try Ju's scoot

Kimi hugging Ju and refusing to let him go! BFF!

喜怒哀乐

2010-04-19T22:31:00.003+08:00

This is currently what we love getting Kimi to do! The famous Chinese 4 faces of Emotion Expressions - 喜怒哀乐.

When I first asked Kimi to do it. He kind of paused at 'Anger' (nu) and then again at 'Sad' (ai). He then said so innocently that he didn't know how to protray 'Anger' and 'Sad'. I was stumped and then suddenly I felt this immense happiness within me. It dawned on me that Kimi has always been a HAPPY boy that's why! Then Kimi used his hands and pulled down the sides of his mouth to make an over-turn smile (like a sad smiley face) and said, " Mama, like that is sad right? Can?"

Since Kimi has always been a happy boy, it was natural for him to not know or have associations with these negative emotions. And I felt so blessed!

Here's just for laughs and they are some of my faves! There was this pix of 'anger' (not shown here) that showed Kimi holding back his laughter, too cute and precious!

喜 (Easy shot)

怒 (The Most Angry shot I could get)

哀 (Sadness - Downturn smile)

乐 (Happiness - Jump for Joy?)

Art Class Update - Project #1

2010-04-17T18:45:00.000+08:00

Remember Kimi's first Art Class? We finished the 'Underwater/Sea Creatures Themed Project' which stretched over 3 lessons and Kimi learnning the use of different mediums and colours blends, etc.

Here's my proud trooper with his final piece that we take home. :)

For the final lesson, Kimi chose a clown fish which he drew and painted on his own. He also did some tearing, cutting and gluing of crepe paper for the sea anemone.

Teacher Maria commented that Kimi is very bright and has good fine motor for his age and when he wants to concentrate, he can do very well. Guess, we have to continue to encourage him to work on this area. After the 1st 30 mins, he gets very distracted and wants to do his own stuff. I think Kimi has gotten familiar with the surroundings hence such behaviour. It's ok, its only his 3rd lesson, I truly think he is doing fabulously already. :)

Last week (2nd lesson), he drew a sea turtle and did some stencil sponging of fishes. I love his colour blends of the turtle, it's so beautiful!

Colour blending using brush and fingers

The sponging of fish stencils

Last week's work

Kimi's clown fish

What we've been doing.... Pulled Elbow and Reads

2010-04-16T13:56:00.013+08:00

I've been really busy and tired that I just realised that I've not updated for more than 2 weeks!! I have so many soup and food recipes that I need to update and other stuff too! Please, I hope I can get more 'Me' time so I can update them! In the mean time, pls be patient ok? :)

Alright, back to what happened the last 2 weeks. Kimi was sick for 10 days or more and was not in school since Easter holiday and just when he was about to be well, he had a Pulled Elbow accident at Church on Sunday (11/4/10).

Kimi said the teacher pulled his hand and it was misaligned. Scary yes? YES!! Super stressful for me on Sunday as I was alone and after some examinations by my Church's doctor, he advised me to bring Kimi to the hospital to be really sure.

In the end, after some arm twistings (literally) and a few x-rays later, I had to call in the Orthopedic to really give me a proper diagnosis and re-alignment. This is because the Dr-on-Duty made Kimi cry even more after he tried to do some alignment and he could not tell me for sure it was elbow or wrist! I almost shouted at him!

Anyway, to cut a long story short, Kimi who normally wouldn't even bat an eyelid when he falls or knock his head, was super whiny and kept crying. So, I was sure he was in real pain. After carrying him from noon to 4pm, I literally had no more arms and the left side of my upper body (arms included) ached for 2 whole days!

Well, he is so much better today! :)

Although we have cut back alot on home activities due to Kimi's new schedule, we did not let up on the readings. As Kimi is huge on Go Diego Go, I bought a pack of Scholastic Phonics Reader for him and he loves it. I had to read all 12 at one go each time before nap and bedtime, EVERYDAY. That lasted for 2 weeks or more till I decided to get the Dora Set, thinking he might get bored. But ...

No, he wanted he to read all 24!! I couldn't - it was just too tiring. I made him choose 12 or sometimes less. It's so funny how Kimi will bargain for another one more or another 2 more. So cute!

I personally prefered the Diego Set as I feel it is more interesting and I could expand very much more on the stories while Dora was just plain? limited? Well, it's just a story, nothing much to add to, maybe only in a few of the books.

Then Charmaine recommended the Scholastic Sight Word Readers and Kimi loved it. I've managed to 'hide' the Diego and Dora sets so everyday we read 25 small books.

I would highly recommend this as it is very easy to read, clear, clean fonts and lovely, colourful picutres. After, reading to Kimi about 2 or 3 times, he could read the books himself. Of course, it has to be the titles he loves. :)

Here's Kimi, reading the books last night.