JB | Kidz Republic Dinosaur

Brayden 7Y10M7D

Bevlynn 3Y7M0D

We decided to head to JB with Brayden. It was long queue and jam at the customs. We decided to stay at JBCC Komtar instead of heading to Southkey Midvalley. 

I recalled at the top floor there is a play area and so we tried to explore this place. Sure enough, hidden spot (well not really hidden but there is not enough signage to promote the location), it is right there, the whole floor filled with activities! Dinasour rides, Cat Cafe, Art DIY shop, restaurants. And there it is, the gem and star of the attraction Kidz Republic Dinosaur Themepark. 

It is a big playland. There is a large foam dip, trampoline, sand dig for dinosaur bones, slides, car track, lego brick building, colouring & scan onto the big screen... The children can play all day with the activities. Bray asked me to follow him through the climb and slides; I knocked my head and knees at every turn, I was completely drained after exploring all trails. 

This is one very strategic location as it is very near to the customs so we do not have to call for a Grab and save time to travel as well. Since City Square JB is just next door, we could also do some shopping, massages and find good food.  

Penang | Christmas Carnival | Kids Adventureland | Kidsland | Cacoon+ | Chew Thean Yang Aquarium | Peace and Harmony Old Folks Home

Brayden 7Y9M27D

Bevlynn 3Y6M21D

On 21 Dec Day 1, once we arrived in Penang, we went to the kids favourite roti tissue spot for night supper. 

Day 2, I woke early to went to Sungai Ara pasar with Mom. There is a small neighbourhood playground and Bev was happy playing there. 

We (with Mom) went to Penang Ferringhi Beach and the kids went in the waters for a swim. They loved building sand castles. There was a Christmas Carnival at Ferringhi Bay. Bro Max and fiancee were selling their handmade crafts at the temporary sheltered area. We went there to support them, although not much we did but to eat dinner there. 

Many tourists, children and pet dogs were hanging on the beach. We saw at least 7 parachutes flying on the beach, some jetskis, banana boat and bumpy boat pulled by speed boats. It looked like a whole lot of fun and I had not seen Penang beach so happening in many years.

It was a nice setup with Christmas band singing by the beach. As the sun sets, it was a beautiful orange sky, then slowly turned dark. The sound of the beach still very calm and small waves hitting the shores. On one corner, there were fire performers doing all sorts of stunts; surprisingly there were also children performing. It was beautiful but as a mother, I was anxious for the children if the fire ever gets too hot for them. Coincidently, I bump into Grace and her family, it has been awhile and I am happy to see her.

Day 3, we drove to town to search for some nice food and antique hunt. But it was too jam, there were too many tourists and there was no carpark available. So we ended up at Sushi Mentai Farlim for lunch and the newly opened Sunshine Farlim Mall. There is a large indoor playground at Kids Adventureland. Omg, it was filled with KIDS at every corner. At least, 4 different batches of children from various schools and excursions were there. It was chaos. Bev and Bray still loved playing inside and they couldn't get enough. 

PRICE Good, VARIETY Excellent, SAFETY Low (due to high density of children and stampede at the ball area, needed to be extra careful and eye-ing the children at all times). 

All-in-all, they still have loads of fun and they can use up all their energy. We would come back again when it is not too crowded. 

Day 4, today is Christmas eve. On our way to town, we detoured to Genting Kopitiam to have one of the best chee cheong fun on the island. The Jawa mee and Curry mee is good too. I remember we used to come here often for lunch after my primary school session. 

We dropped by at the non-profit old folks home Peace and Harmony Home at Bukit Dumbar. Several old folks were happy to see the children and talking to them. I talked to one uncle and auntie who were on wheelchairs and they were sharing about the good ol' times, politics, children... The children were playing with the puppy at the home. Just recently their dog was stolen and someone donated a puppy to them. I met with the caretaker, and he solemnly shared about his sickness and difficulty in caring for the old folks as he gets older. But he still tries to bring joy to the people and celebrated Christmas a few times at the home. In my heart, I silently wishes Uncle Ban good health and may he receive great blessings in life! (Every time I watched his video, I am touched and motivated to do more for people around me too).

We drove past my old home in Bukit Dumbar. It is no longer the same. Nicely renovated. I remember the large compound we always run around in as children. I miss this old place, brought back many memories. 

It is another day of fun for the kids. We were at Kidland Penang Prangin Mall. For school holiday promo, 1 kid full day play is only RM25. There were barely any children around - surprising. It is even a better deal than Kids Adventureland. As always, there is a corner spot at the pizzaria restaurant next to the playland for the parents to wait and peek at the children while enjoying a cup of coffee or some snacks. I love it here better, I can get some "me" time to read my e-book. 

We then head over to Hanmalu Korean BBQ at Queens Waterfront Q2. Every other restaurants were packed. Everyone is in the mood of celebrating and counting down to Christmas. Christmas songs were played in the next door restaurant, loud enough to hear at the Korean BBQ. The food is great! My family were there to celebrate it with me. I love the makgoelli, having the chance to drink it together with my Dad, Mom, Bros and Hub has a warm feeling to it. It was their first time drinking it. Felt like holidaying in Korea. They bought me a cake to celebrate my birthday! Happy Birthday! 

Day 5 It's CHRISTMAS DAY! I woke Hub early to catch the sunrise by the beach at Queens Waterfront. It was beautiful, viewing the calm sea and Penang 1st bridge. There were lots of runners jogging already. We took breakfast at Joo Leong Coffee Shop for some teh si, toast and nasi lemak.

We went to Chew Thean Yang Aquarium. They have many pets there, including a big fish aquarium. The children get to feed the fish with fish food bought at the counter for RM1.50. They liked how the big fishes came to the surface and swallowed the food. There were also some puppies, rabbits, tortoise (I think I have seen the same tortoise from many years back). They even sell some nice plants (bonsai) at a separate shoplot. I got a bonsai for my birthday~~ 

Hubs had to leave Penang today. Me and the children stayed back in Penang. After dinner, I brought the children for Happy Hour at Cocoon+ Playground Bayan Lepas after 8pm. They loved the dressed up (as mechanic & cook), the staff were friendly to play with the children especially with Bevlynn. They even gave them balloons. 

On 26 Dec Day 6, we went to Snake Temple. There were venomous snakes on the trees and in large containers. The children were brave enough to hold on to the snakes for photos. It has been years since we last came here. While we were children, Gene and I always took photo with the snakes. There were some tourists there waiting for their turn with the snake photo taking, while some tourists cringe at the thought of slippery legless reptile curling up their neck and hands. 

We had breakfast dim sum at Tang XiaoLoong Restaurant Penang. They gave coins to the children for Free Rides (unlimited). The food was great and the restaurant was spacious. The egg tart especially is a must-try. We can see from the window to the kitchen how the dim sums were handmade.

On Day 7, Last Day today. We had lunch at Winter Warmers Queensbay. I noticed my Mom had a little bit of difficulty remembering details. 

We ordered some food from the menu after discussing. When the food arrived, she asked me why we did not order the one she picked (which we had discussed to changed, she cannot remember). There were a few more instances, she did not remember. 

One of the nights, I told her to meet directly at dinner place. When there were no one arriving, Bro Max told me Mom had mentioned to them that I was returning home first (not what I had mentioned to her). 

In one of the videos shared on our family whatsapp, she had shared the same video to me before but she could not remember.

Is this the start of memory loss? She forgets short term details. She had no problem remember long term details though. I hope this is not.. I wish for her long good health. 

Time to return to Singapore. 

KL | Taman Connaught Night Market

Brayden 7Y9M24D
Bevlynn 3Y6M18D

On 18 Dec, immediately after arriving at Kuchai Lama from Genting, we dropped our luggages and head over to Taman Connaught Night Market. The streets were jammed and filled with people. Every stalls were different and there was a variety of street food, CNY decorations, tarot card reading, clothings, toys, accessories. We ate and ate and ate; pan mee, grilled octopus, drinks, taiwan sausages, smelly toufu, hokkien mee. Bought water bottle and crocs charms for the children. There was a small setup for game to win free Wrigley's chewing gum, we just have to throw to balls in the same flavour; I WON. I thought how lucky was that as I was just craving for chewing gum when we came down from Genting. We took too much food and was almost vomitted at the end of the walk. 

The next day, we went to the coffee place near the Kuchai Lama's house and I was writing some blogs there. We then walked over to the back alley for my favourite Sang Mien and Lor Mein. 

After that, we went to Petaling Street for Curry Mee and bought some roses (RM15 for 5 roses) from the place where we bought the flowers for my wedding Weng Hoa Flower Boutique. We walked to Chan Temple and prayed to ancestor before walked to Sunway Belfield (still under construction but almost done). A sense of accomplishment rained over me. Beneath the hill, hidden at Jalan Rotan, we discovered old buildings, which had been revamped and filled with pop-up shoplots and small cafes. It was an interesting find - felt like a tourist discovering new places.

We then took a Grab to Midvalley. Spend some time and money there.... 

Then we headed to meet Ming Hong, Yeeyu and Jim for dinner at a street hawker alley opposite of Sunway Velocity, near the traffic light. We took a ride on Ming Hong's new EV car. It was nice and quiet, with loads of impressive features. During dinner, we were talking about mid-life crises, then it hit me hard. 

I was not affected by the mid-life crisis topic; but I started to feel upset when MH asked me if I felt afraid during my travels for work. I admit, I do; every time. I was afraid of travel accidents that might happen, I was afraid of strangers who approached me, I was afraid of harassments, I was afraid of being lost in a foreign city. And I do have many stories from the past, my fear grew. Then my mind shifted to "if only my Hubs would understand the sacrifices I made and challenges I faced." I cried feeling all alone. 

That night, we talked about it (He knew) and I felt better.... Fighting, one day, I will look back to this day and feel all these sacrifices are all worth it!

We had massages at HealthLand and went to our favourite salon. 

Our flight to Penang got cancelled on the actual day 21 Dec. We were really really lucky. Gene did not travel up to Penang yet, so we hitched a ride from him. If it weren't for him, I believed we would have panicked like headless chickens. It was a long 7 hour ride from KL to Penang because of the traffic jam. We dropped by for a famous Hing Kee bak kut teh in Kepong.

Finally, we moved to Part 3 of our year-end holiday. 

Genting | Bouncy Castle | Outdoor Theme Park

Brayden 7Y9M20D
Bevlynn 3Y6M14D

On 14 Dec - 18 Dec, we traveled to Genting. The customs from Singapore to Malaysia were jammed. It took more than 6 hours to arrive. The children were more than excited, chugged down snacks on the way, sang APT songs and slept mostly throughout in the private car we took. 

When we arrived, Mom and Bro Max were already there for 1 day. We met them for lunch at Dafu Congee for their famous congee. We then went to the top-floor indoor arcade and walked outside in the cold air a little before heading to Starbucks. They were catching Pokemon as it was an event day. After awhile, we went to rest and went for dinner. 

The next day, the children went to the largest bouncy castle. Funtopia, Malaysia Book of Records’ Largest Inflatable Theme Park. More than 300ft obstacle challenge and highest inflatable slide with 9m height. 

For the price of only RM120 (2 kids + 2 aduls) it's for a full day fun. There's Train, Tyre Track, Highest Slide and many others.... The kids couldn't get enough and went in from day to night. My heart almost dropped when Bev climbed up the highest slide and came down on her own. I even felt it was already quite exciting for me, she did not show any tinge of fear at all. Brayden too..... Where do they get their energy hopping on over and over again. Hub and I were tired after just one round of walking the whole place; I was clumsily slipping and sliding on the surface as my socks were without grips. 

There was fake snow and Christmas performance outdoor. Bev and Bray sang to the Christmas songs together with the singers and dancers. 

They still loved the bouncy castle more than any other rides and asked to enter the place over and over again. Most worth it RM120 spent. 

The kids left Genting with Mom and Bro Max on 16 Dec, they went to Penang first. Hub and I decided that we wanted to spend a little We-time at Genting and KL. 

Our romantic first date was at a night bar on top of Genting. The band were performing and we were drinking and dancing. On the second night, we came back to another bar, where there was beer, frog mascot, DJ and a couple singing. It was a different vibe but nice nonetheless. 

We, of course, would not miss the Outdoor Theme Park. I tried to avoid it but Hub was insistent that we should do it without the kids. We were Big Kids; enjoying the rides and not worrying about which ones are age appropriate for the kids. There were slight rain and lots of cloud fog. It was nice and cool outdoors. I am really impressed with the rides; Some of my favourites: Independance Day (Special appearance of Douglas Lim, wonderful flying effect and futuristic view of KL), Invasion of Planets of the Ape, Robots Rivet Town (control front-back rotation of own vessel), Ice Age Expedition, Ice Age Live Performance, Rio Samba Gliders (nice view of Genting in the sky, felt like Aladdin & Jasmine flying carpet moment when flying through the clouds - brrr cold breeze), Boot Camp Training (easy).

We went to the casino and won on the Moo-Moo slot machine. The bags kept bursting at the right moments. 

Time to head down to KL. We took the Skyway Cable Car and bus down to TBS (Terminal Bersatu Selatan). There were lots of bus intervals, Gene came down to Kl too and he drove us to Ah Gor's home in Kuchai Lama. 

New Bicycles | Bukit Batok Christmas Cheers

Brayden 

Bevlynn

We had just gotten Bray and Bevlynn new bicycles from Decathlon Joo Koon. It was Black Friday. We did not know that on this day there will be big discounts. We only wanted to replace Brayden's and Bevlynn's bicycles. They were both stolen and we found Bev's bicycle once again but the bicycle is not in very good condition anymore. 

The children were cycling round and round at the test run area. They loved their selected white bicycles. We found one preloved bicycle for Bevlynn. It was priced at S$89, because of Black Friday the price had been further reduced to only S$50+ It was a super good deal. Even Brayden's bicycle was at a discounted price. We immediately bought them, with no second thoughts. 

On 8 Dec 2024, after receiving the new bicycles. We invited Shou Zheng to cycle together at the playground. They enjoyed competing in fast runs. These two best friends got the same model of bicycle. What a coincidence.  

On the same night, we attended the Bukit Batok Christmas 2024 celebration at the Bukit Batok Bus Interchange. There was a bouncy castle at the entrance. Kids went crazy with it, it was almost dangerous with the sheer number of children bouncy on the castle together; but they are not bothered with the danger, just having loads of fun. There were many game stands to keep the children entertained as well : mini-claw machine (toy), archery, ball throw, gun shoot, etc.... 

There was a Christmas tree at the center of the hall and you can hang wishing notes on it. The children did not know what to write; Brayden wrote Merry Christmas to everyone and Bevlynn only drew some random lines. 

The children were not interested in the stage performances and asked to go for the bouncy castle only. Brayden's pre-school friends were there and they played together. They played until quite late. 

What tiring day it was! 

 

Bintan Company Retreat

Brayden 7Y9M4D

Bevlynn 3Y5M28D

28 - 30 Nov 2024, 

I was off again on a business trip, but this time it is a company retreat. It is the first time in my five years working for the organisation. We went to Bintan Indonesia, an island not too far away from Singapore. The ferry ride to the island took only about 1 hour to arrive. 

However, something happened right before arriving at the ferry terminal. We were sharing a cab and my company phone dropped on the car seat. By the time I noticed it, the Grab car has left for the other side of Singapore. So I had to quickly arranged for Hubs to collect the phone from the driver. I had to go on the trip without my phone and nobody could reach me. It truly become a "retreat" for me then, although it was unintentional. 

We had conferences and teams from Indonesia, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Vietnam; all coming together. 

We were taken on a bus to the Angsana Hotel Bintan. It is a nice hotel, my room was facing the swimming pool and the beach. Each time the lunch and dinner comes in variety of places and setup. We ate at the Lotus Cafe, Banyan Tree restaurant and Saffron Restaurant (Dinner Thai). To go to the restaurants we need to get on a buggy, on the way there were many private villas lined up on the sides of the road. Banyan Tree and Saffron Restaurant had very nice view overlooking the beach, it was on top of a small cliff. 

There was team bonding session. It was rainy weather so everything has to be mostly indoors. We had to Pass the marbles in a line, Tap-Catch the fingers, Pull-out balls from basket using chopsticks, Rearrange the Cards, Hold the rope and make shapes blindfolded, Build a tower with straws, Drop the Egg. Our team did not win but we had lots of fun. 

I had managed to get a session of Sound Healing on the last day; it was a 45-min session in a private villa with a wonderful view outside the large windows. It was a new experience for me. We had all laid on the floor mat and there were sound gongs. It felt relaxing with the sound, slowly it started getting really bright and I saw beautiful aura colours (blue, violet, red) in my blind-folded eyes. I thought it was strange, was the blindfold not work properly? I moved my blindfold and made sure it was all pitch black. It was..... only for awhile, then the colours start reappearing again. It came in circles and circle in to a small dot, following the gong sound. Then I could felt vibrations on my body even though the gong was only very close. I was not feeling too well that day, but when we return home. My blocked nose started to clear and phlegm just came out after few coughs. It does felt like body healing; although I am not too sure if this is how it should be. 

My colleagues had some ghostly encounters in their room. There was a lady in tudung screaming at a colleague and she saw a kampung of people staring at her from outside her window. It was not too good an experience for her. 

Unlucky Month | No Anxiety

Brayden 7Y9M3D

Bevlynn 3Y5M27D

On 27 Nov 2024,

we were back again in JB Southkey Midvalley with Brayden. I was here to collect the new travel luggage I had pre-ordered the week before. I had to replace the luggage that was damaged from my return trip from Germany. When I returned to Singapore last trip, the luggages got left behind at the Frankfurt Airport and was not delivered on time. It was the first time I had luggage delayed on return to Singapore. When the luggages were delivered to my home the next day, I found big cracks on both luggages. In first thoughts, how "lucky" can I get? I can now get new luggages and make claims from insurance for it. But the claims were quite troublesome, there were many paperworks that need to be submitted to the insurance company. 

In the same month, I had my credit card used overseas by credit card scammer, left my phone in Grab car while on my trip to Bintan, lost my favourite bracelet, flight got cancelled for our trip to Penang. More on these stories later...... (To be continued)

I was very busy up to my neck and now there are more things added to my list of to-dos and follow-ups because of these happenings. Somehow I am still quite relaxed and not overwhelmed at all. I guess age and maturity plays a part. I've learnt from past experiences that it does not help when we allow unexpected things happening to us to affect us. It will be better to work out a list of tasks to sort out the matter. Small steps and actions will slowly sort out the mess. Having big anxiety does not help elevate the situation and sometimes it could pull us down with the heavy emotions. When you put the bad emotions aside, you can think more clearly on what needs to get done. In the past, I used to contemplate as to "Why me?", Now I think to myself "It's okay, I am lucky to get the opportunity to learn how to solve problems" "I hit jackpot again". 

Penang Indoor Playgrounds and Foodhunt - Kidsville | Cocoon+ | Queensbay Baby Shark | Bayana Food Court | Country Home and Cafe | Marina De Captain

Brayden 7Y9M27D

Bevlynn 3Y6M21D

Brayden's longest school holiday started - From 16 Nov - 31 Dec 2024. Hubs is travelling to China Beijing and Tianjin with his father and brother. Because it is too cold in China, I've decided on the other hand to travel to Penang with the two kids. 

Bev and Bray loves the playgrounds. This time, we explored new ones. 

First was at Kidsville Waterfront near Queensbay. It was Kayson's and Hanson's birthday party. It is a compact space but rather fun. In each corner, there were different setups. Bevlynn and Brayden loves the slides and pool of soft sausages & balls. There was also loads of fun at the barbie doll booth, soft sand cart, cooking toys, Pikachu and face painting. 

Then we met again with TT, Kayson and Hanson at Cocoon+. The area was big and spacious; blended within a cafe. There were dinner and most importantly, there was happy hour from 8pm onwards. The boys loved running around; while Bev played with the baby doll. All of them loved jumping on the trampolin. 

I went again with Annling, Wenting, and Huiping to Cocoon+ Happy Hour. The children loved running about and since it was at night, we practically have the whole place to ourselves. Loved it! The Ashton was jealous when Xixi was holding Bev's hand and walking around. He wanted Xixi to himself. But the children loved it and ran, jumped and played. How did they have so much energy? 

Brought the children to Queenbay Baby Shark Adventure Ville twice in that week. On one of the days, Bev was bullied by a small boy. The boy hit her but she was standing there and not moved. The parent of the boy stepped in to protect her and hugged her. When she saw me, then her tears start to flow very fast. I can feel her feelings of staying tough but was very vulnerable inside. O my, poor darling! Brayden stepped in to protect her too but it was too late. We decided to leave. The staff there was nice to give her a toy car.

On another day, Bev was very funny to play with the staff there. They entertained her although it is not part of their job. Even when they moved around, Bev followed. She was asking one of them "Why are you leaving? Come, come play with me (gesturing with her hand).

To the children, all these playgrounds were FUN regardless of where it is. The only difference is for the parents, 

• If I'd like to go for shopping, then Queenbay is the place.
• If I'd like to have a meal while letting the children play, I'd choose Cocoon+ or Kidsville

We also tried dinner at the first floating ferry food hall in Penang Queens Waterfront. The Pulau Rimau Ferry is named Marina De Captain Food Hall. The concept and idea is fantastic but the food was just normal, while there is not many selections for drinks. We sat right at the corner overlooking the water. There was a small speed boat that came by with tourists and they started waving at us while we waved back at them. It was as though we are part of the display on the iconic ferry. The night was dark, we could see the beautiful penang bridge night view from a distance. There were small fishes swimming in the sea; long ones. 

We went with Ah Pa for our favourite spot of seafood; Country Home and Cafe at Gertak Sanggul. We enjoyed the delicious fresh seafood there. My favourite dish include the fried small Sakura prawn and seafood porridge. Bray and Bev loved to play at the beach nearby. The children dig the sand and played with the water, although I'd say it isn't the cleanest ocean water but it has been the same beach me and my brothers grew up playing. 

I'd always remember the time when our family used to come and swim on weekends. I loved the waters but hated to step my foot on the sand as I was afraid I might step onto something "unknown". There were lots of corals and shells in the sand. I'd always cling onto my ah Pa while he walked around the waters. 

This time, Brayden was not very lucky. A small stick had pricked onto the sole of his foot. He was shouting and crying. As soon as I pulled it out, he was fine. 

Something funny happened to Bev. She bang her head while on the way walking out of a restaurant. The glass was too clean and transparent. It was a loud one and heads turned towards her, everyone was shocked and she was stunned. But after a good laugh, she was fine. 

I met with my dear ol' friends Patrick and Gan at Bayana Food Court, Bayan Lepas. There were Hobbit houses and various colours flowers spread beautifully across the front of the little homes. The houses and front doors are small to fit little children. Bray and Bev played House, they are my little Hobbits. They even "worked hard" at the water pump. Their laughters were contagious. 

That was the end of our week long trip to Penang. 

USM Reunion | Uniique Haus | Legoland

Brayden 7Y8M8D

Bevlynn 3Y5M1D

I had a trip organised for 13 adults + 12 children (ages 0 - 10 years old). These are my best and close friends from university days. We had stayed at the homestay at JB - Uniique haus. 

We arrived from all parts of Malaysia (Penang, KL, Klang) and Singapore; in different modes of transport (plane, train, cars, private cars). It was a long awaited trip and long overdue. We had tried looking for many ideas for such a trip; Cherating Club Med, JB, etc... Many ideas pop-up but isn't too ideal; considering the number of children involved and travels from different places. Finally, we had decided on JB stay and Legoland for 3D2N. 

Nic was very spontaneous. I was asking him if he'd like to join us for the trip while I met him for dinner in KL, and that's when he just went with the flow. 

On 1st Nov, we arrived on Friday afternoon to the Uniique Haus. It was a nice house, well decorated with many rooms and swimming pool. The Daddies and children are already hopping in the pool for a dip. Nic brought his floating plane, the kids loved it; taking turns to hop on and off the small little float, sometimes 3 kids at once. Night came, there were karaoke, snooker pool session and kids playing air soccer ball. Everyone found their activities; somehow everyone has self-organised entertainment and had fun throughout, there isn't much need to plan. We got some firecrackers for the kids and a cake to celebrate outdoor. The ladies found time to go for a body massage at Healthland. 

On 2nd Nov, it's a Saturday, we head out to Legoland after having dimsum. Legoland was fun for the kids, there were Halloween party, so there were special activities for the kids - performances, trick-or-treat. Sophia and Ellie were both having fun together, finding companionship in each other, they've somehow grown close within such a short period of time. Unfortunately, Hanson was hurt when he fell. Poor little one, must have hurt! 

We ended the day feeling tired and decided to head home for dinner. This night, it's the Husbands turn to get body massages. The kids were playing in the largest room - "Pillow fight" and "Floor is Lava". They were still all full with energy, jumping from bed to bed. How to drain their energy? They are like self-charged Energizer Bunnies. The only way to get them to stop was to ask them "Pretend to sleep together for 15 mins". That did the trick. It felt like camping in the glass house. The children were squeezing and sleeping together all so soundly. 

On the last day, some had to leave early while the rest of us decided to go to Southkey Midvalley for lunch and shopping. The kids wanted to go for another round of play. They all went in the Kiddytopia. It was a relaxing time for the Mommies and Daddies. 

The kids were still talking all the way back to Singapore in the car. As soon as they arrived home, their SLEEP mode switch turn on immediately. It was time to say Bye-bye for now. We'll plan one again someday. 

 

October Business | Gunzburg

Brayden 7Y7M21D

Bevlynn 3Y4M15D

In Ulm Germany again at this time.

 

This year as there were some changes within the organisation, we were assigned new roles and had to meet as many people in Germany to work on 2025 plan and support. There were many changes within all regions, it is not only from our side. Given the dynamic market situation and there is a real need to adapt to the new market environment, we need to accept change, else, our role will become redundant.

I missed the children. This is one of the longer trips, I had stayed additionally for 1 day to have more discussion and joined in the 70th birthday celebration of the owner. There were band playing, the CEO and CSO were performing. I really do admire these high calibre, all-rounded individuals. How are they so capable! 

During my 10-day long stay in the hotel Ibis, there was on a Saturday night, it was rowdy outside. There were drunk men talking really loudly. The time has already passed midnight, around 2am. Then there were sound as there was someone trying to open the door with a key card. Who could it be? My heart started pounding really hard. Then, there was a short silence. 

*Bang, bang bang, bang* sounded like a heavy person started pushing and banging himself on the door to open it. My adrenaline ran high, and my heart turned cold, tears started to build in my eyes. Who could it be? 

After several more bangs, I asked loudly "WHO IS IT?! What do you want?" Then the knocks stopped. ................... My imaginations are still running wild. I started texting a few colleagues but no replies. I guess everyone is very sound asleep. I was now wide awake and on high alert, like a deer that just got a highlight beam shine on it. I simply couldn't rest well. 

Then on another day, there came another knock after we went back from dinner. Again, I was on high alert. Not again.... "Who is it?!" A soft voice came from opposite the door "It's me Alex". 

I was already undressed at that time. I thought why would he be coming to my room? "What is it? What do you want?" His voice turned even softer (He knew the story from the night before, we were joking at dinner that he was the one who had knocked and I told him jokingly not to disturb me in the middle of the night).... and so he was close to whispering "I've got your phone with me" 

Oh, right! I was asking him to take my phone and help us to take a photo at dinner. I forgot to take it back. Sheepishly, I opened the door and thanked him, quickly closing the door right after. 

Sunday came. The 4 of us (with Emily, Emma & Shawn) had breakfast again at the same spot - our usual cake and bread breakfast. Then, this time we again spontaneously planned to go to Blautopf. There was still renovation at the train station and so we only bought the tickets from the kiosk. 

As soon as we bought it and checked through the app, we realised that there were no trains available to go to Blautopf. How can this be? Then we checked with the lady at the station and found that it became an open ticket. We can go from end-to-end, although we only bought the ticket for one station away. Lucky? Yes! we were not able to decide where we wanted to go in the first place and just went with Blautopf as our option. Now we can hop-on and hop-off whenever we wish. 

We were feeling adventurous and hopped-off a small quaint town called Gunzburg (Later which I found out that we had taken a photo past Gunzburg a year ago - such a coincidence). It is a small town with Legoland. We walked around, there was a nice church, a small hill with a view overlooking the whole town. It was a quiet town and enough to spend the nice morning at. Lunch was at a small beer restaurant. Shawn had to leave us early. So we ladies decided to continue our walk around the forest and take some photos along the riverside. I love the beautiful brown leaves falling and the cold weather. (One of the photo taken was going to win me a lucky price from the PRIS walk).

More on the trip : Beautiful Flowers for 3 ladies, Dinner with Aleks (Happy Rabbit) and Heiko (Return Home).  

 

Charades

Brayden 7Y7M18D
Bevlynn 3Y4M12D

We played charades. Four of us took turns acting out and let the others guess. 

Brayden acted: Zombie eating brains, Lord of the rings (just fighting with mei mei), Panda (cooking with a Pan and chomping louding on something invincible) 

Daddy acted: Milk shake (milking a cow and drink and shake like crazy), Fan (rotating like a ballerina and rotating the hands to the side in big circles like a helicopter) 

Mommy acted: Fresh milk (milking a cow), Flamingo (one leg up), Sun Flower (Round and smelling of flower in the hands) - Bevlynn was very fast in guessing correctly; within 3 seconds. 

Bevlynn acted : Kangaroo (hopping around), zombie (eat brains), floor is lava (hopping around)

It was fun and the children loved it. We should play it again! 

Bevlynn is sick again this week. High temperature and cough. The school has children having HFMD again. 

Brayden had Children Day and Sport Day in his school. He loves it. He's such a mess. There are black stains on his face, nose, everywhere. At times, he'd be back with some new rashes on his face. Even right after he washed his face, the stains are not completely gone, he's just a very dirty boy. 

He's been lectured a lot about his hygiene, but it had just fallen on deaf ears. 

There was a nice movie Khel Khel Mein about couples hiding secret lives from their spouses. In all marriages, there are various differences, conflicts and challenges. The spouses should work together in a partnership to overcome all difficulties and not to sweep it under the rug. The more and longer the problems are pushed aside, the marriage will continue with pretense of happiness and it will feel more distant. It does not have to be perfect but we have to constantly work on it. 

B&B's Favourite Activities

Brayden 7Y7M12D

Bevlynn 3Y4M6D

Two of my friends have delivered babies in the past month. It reminds me of the times when my babies were weeks old, sleeping and crying for milk. I miss it when they were still little; 2 can fit in my arms.ynow I can't even carry them -- Bray is 26kg, Bev is 16kg.

It is extremely difficult to juggle between work, self and family. With the travelling, it takes away precious time. I find pleasure in spending time with the little ones and hubs, simple joy by bringing them out to playground, swimming and shopping at the neighbourhood malls. 

Their cheeky laughter and humming of songs (not according to lyrics - Not alone, Singapore National Anthem, Happy Ol' Day) always give me a sense of warmth. I tell myself, now is the time that the children still asks for me, depend on me. It won't be for long... 

Bevlynn and Brayden's favourite activities:  

1. Cycling, Brayden in his cute little bicycle, he's outgrown his bicycle but he could still cycle very quickly in it. Bevlynn cycling very quickly with her tricyle, with small quick pedals like a little duck. 

2. Swimming. Brayden can swim really well now. Bevlynn only likes to swim like a little croc at the corner of a baby pool.

3. House. The bunk bed at home as turned into a little camping area for them. They'd build a small house using pillows, mattress and blanket. It is rather cosy because there is a small lamp in the house. They'd cook. Pretend to be parents to little soft toys. Or pretend the upper bunk as the pirate ship. 

4. Kick boxing. They love to kick box on my hand. I will rotate the regime (palm punch, helicopter, invincible samurai spike, and knee attack) and they will have to attack, defence or run. 

5. Hide-and-seek. They will need to hide in the small house. Somehow, we have to get really creative in this small house. Bevlynn only has 1 hiding spot; behind the curtain (that specific one). She'll always reveal herself before anyone found her. 

6. Showering in the bath tub. Small but can fit two. They always make bubble bath. 

Philippines

Brayden 7Y6M29D

Bevlynn 3Y3M22D

I spend the week in Manila Philippines. It is my first travel there. Such a nice place, with very welcoming people and good food. Did not manage to go around much due to work. The malls are well-lit and adorned with christmas decorations. They usually start decoration since early September every year. 

We had dinner on the last night at The Nest Dining in the Sky. It was on the 31st floor of Vivere hotel at Alabang. Beautiful weather and view overlooking Laguna De Bay. 2 weeks ago there were typhoon, good thing it was clear blue sky this week. The food was amazing, plus the band playing some music. It definitely brought out the very nice vibes of Philippines night life.

I had some time to read; it was a book on empowering thoughts. I have so much goodness in the present, there are certain times I overlooked and only focused on the uncertain future. Be grateful of the Now, otherwise, these moments will just pass in a blink. Although I have good times in the Philippines, I miss my family. 

A friend, SL just gave birth last week. We visited her while she is in confinement. I do miss the times when Bev and Bray were still little cuddly babies. Now they are running around, hugging, fighting, loving, playing...  

Mid-Autumn Festival | IKEA | Explore Philippines

Brayden 7Y6M24D

Bevlynn 3Y3M17D

This week was mid-autumn festival. This year we attended the mid-autumn event at Bukit Batok; there were magic show, yoyo performance, dance, singing, lion & dragon dance. The children loved playing at the playground beside the basketball court. We had a walked around the park with a lantern. 

We switched off the lights in the room to play hide and seek in the dark. It was exciting and fun. Bevlynn was just moving around randomly while Brayden was pretty good seeking in the blind. He could find us with the meek of sound from our voices. 

We had a gathering at Jane's house. The children played at the playground and there was a mid-autumn celebration beside the pool. They ate blue cotton candy and all looked like mini-smurfs with blue mouths and teeth. Bev loved playing with baby Aiden, Lucas and Caleb. 

Bevlynn played at a game in Ikea JEM. They gathered the random children and put them in teams of two. Bev was teamed up with a 5-yr girl, the youngest team. They had to sort the IKEA toys into the correct bin. Bev did pretty well, although their team was the first to play and took the longest time. But it was fun and they still gave some vouchers as awards. 

I had traveled month after month; from Thailand, Malaysia and I am leaving to the Philippines in another 4 hours. This would be my first trip to this country. I'll explore around.

Mommy-Son Getaway to JB

Brayden 7Y6M14D
Bevlynn 3Y3M7D

It was school holiday for Brayden for a week. We had plans for Legoland over the weekend but Hubs received a sad news from Kuantan. His cousin Ah Hao, 41 years old has just passed away due to infection. Since our last trip to Kuantan in March, Hubs met him in the hospital after his fall while at work. He never recovered from that fall. Life is so fragile.

I had a chance to spend a little more time with Brayden, Mommy-Son mini trip cross border to JB. Bray was excited and woke up early on his own and started washing up and waited for us to get ready. We waited awhile at the Kranji bus stop and passed the customs with breeze. We made it to SouthKey Mid Valley around lunch time. 

After lunch, there was a choice to choose between the playarea or the cinema Play+. He decided he'd prefer the playarea. He is now more independent and could play with other children. I had the chance to walk around and shop. By the end of the day, he did not want to leave and was complaining of how tired it was for him. But he enjoyed it and was very co-operative. He nap shortly in the grab car. We had to queue for bus and mrt. I hope he would spend more time with me, just a little more... 

When we reached home, Bev was waiting for us. She was still sick but looking very happy. 

They are at a very nice age now. They can play together - Cooking, Spiderman, singing the same song over and over - Not Alone, Not Alone (National Day NDP Theme Song). 

Brayden woke up in the middle of the night complaining of tummy ache again and walk around in the middle of the night. The next day, he could not remember any of these happening. Is this sleep walking? 

Bevlynn's speech is advance for her age. She really knows how to express herself very well. Brayden on the other hand is very good with Maths. Both has their strengths. 

 

 

Goodbye Coco | Brayden Reunion | Durian Party

Brayden 7Y6M8D

Bevlynn 3Y3M1D

In the one-week there was so many things done. 

Brayden did not want anyone to pull out his teeth. It was shaking like a coconut tree swayed by a typhoon, no kidding. He cried and cried and still would not let me pull it out. So I had to threatened him to a dentist. He kept asking me to wait and wait. After more than an hour and much scolding, he finally pulled the string that was tied to the teeth a little more and I surprised him with a karate chop on the string. It worked fast and clean. He was shocked but all happy. What a relief! 

There were more recording for a movie at the block near us. The actor was taking a motorbike and running down the street over and over. Looks like a super romantic scene. I really can't wait to see what is the content of the movie. I asked the children to go round and round the area for us to glimpse a little more of the scene. This silly mommy. 

Hub and I was at JB for a movie and massage. We watched the Deadpool vs Wolverine. Good watch. It kept us entertained with lots of comedy and as usual killing.

On Monday, I flew into Malaysia for work and met with Nic and Mandy for dinner. It was a last minute invitation but they could make it as well. Nic shared a photo of us taken more than 10 years ago - he was wearing the same clothes. 

Coco passed away while I was travelling. My dear little brown "teddy" dog. He was born in 2008 while we were in university, puppy of Baby (Shih Tsu) and Lady (Miniature German Pinscher), lived for 16 years and died peacefully on 29 August 2024, Thursday. He was my companion, gave me warm comfort, quick learner of tricks (dead, stand, sit) and always welcomed me with a long howl when I returned home. I knew this day would come. He was blind and deaf, hardly eating much in his last days. Goodbye my little one, you are dearly missed.

I had a midnight flight returning from Malaysia. It was a trip to Kerteh to provide a training to the customer there. But it was so last minute change of plan and I had to catch a flight from Kuantan. It was a small airport. I would not mind coming again next time if I am heading to Club Med Cherating since there were international flight. 

On Friday night, I attended the Plastic's Association Bowling Game - at CSC Bowling. 

It was fun. The last Hubs and I were here, more than 7 years ago, before we shifted to Bukit Batok and we had not have any children. Now Brayden could join us. I won 4th place and a voucher of S$30. Hooray! I even made new friends - one is a friend of Shawn (a colleague who had relocated to China). It is a small small world.  

On Saturday, we had a durian party in Bukit Batok neighbourhood. Mr Murali and an event emcee from Spikes of Love were there. He introduced the durian history about how in the 70s, durians only cost 60cents or less for one kilo. Now it is way more expensive than that 12 - 25 dollars / kilo. There was red prawn durian and Mao Sang Wang. Very delicious but I could not take too much. 

At night, we had a reunion for Brayden's ex-PPS childcare friends and family. All the children has grown, all in very different schools but they still have very good fun together. We had games like striking the ball to the players in the center, guessing game, ball dropping behind the players and catch (Bevlynn was very cute when she ran after the teacher and ran off tracks) and Red Light, Green Light. It was until very late, the children were still playing in the playground and wouldn't go home - just like how they used to be everyday after childcare. During the guessing game, Brayden was the fastest to give the answers for Maths and the other parents were asking me how he can count so fast? He is pretty good in maths I must say....