Yu Le

This blog will be closed

2010-08-26T03:33:00.000-07:00

A new blog is created to mark my new parenting journey. Go to

Little Snippets of Life

Yule and Yuxi

2010-05-06T06:35:00.001-07:00

Yule: (looking at Mummy's big tummy) 妈咪, 我在妈咪肚子里面的时候, 宇希在哪里?
Mummy: (Of course mummy doesn't quite know how to answer such a question???!!!)Hmmmm, 宇乐在妈咪肚子里面的时候, 宇希还在别的世界.
Yule: (staring at mummy blankly) 什么???
Mummy: ok, you go and ask papa

Yule: 爸爸, 爸爸, 我在妈咪肚子里面的时候, 宇希在哪里?
Papa: 宇希还在游泳!
Yule: (looking even more confused and decided to stop asking and walk away!)

---------------------------

Mummy: 宇乐, 妈咪生宇希的时候, 要去医院住两天的.
Yule: (looking sad and hugging mummy) 妈咪,我会勇敢的. 我会 Nam-myo-ho-renge-gyo的. (referring to the chant when making prayer)
Mummy: (can't help but to kiss Yule for being so sweet)
Yule: 妈咪, 我们现在就去 Nam-myo-ho-renge-gyo 啦 (referring that we should go and chant now)
Mummy: Nam-myo-ho-renge-gyo 也可以在心里面的. (pointing to where her heart is)
Yule: 什么???
Mummy: 心就是你的 heart (pointing to where her heart is agian)
Yule: 很像 Good Morning Jesus ah? (referring to the song she sings in her school!)
Mummy: (laughing and speechless...)

---------------------------

Yule: 妈咪, 你去医院, doctor 会不会跟你打针的?
Mummy: 会呀!
Yule: 为什么?
Mummy: 这样才可以生 baby 吗
Yule: 我不喜欢 doctor 了!

Happy Wedding to You!

2010-05-04T23:14:00.000-07:00

Celebrating Papa and Mummy's 6th year wedding anniversary and 14 years of togetherness...

Happy 3rd Birthday Yule!

2010-04-27T05:29:00.000-07:00

Momfidence!

2010-01-07T01:17:00.000-08:00

I had a mini get together wth a mummy friend.. and after the gathering (or should I say during as well), I kinda felt I havent been dilligent enough to be sure of what I feed yule or what cream I use on yule, or perhaps also havent been dilligent enough to read up and research on the stuff that I provide for her.... hmmmmm.... its does tingle some guilt and lousy feelings...

I actually pride myself for not really being part of the rat race or signing up those enrichment programmes that ensure your child has a good headstart... well, not that I disagree with such programmes (I'm also hoping to sign Yule up for some dance or ballet class soon), just that I feel that these programmes will rob away precious family time.. I rather spend the time bringing her to west coast or east coast park than to enrichment classes... at least for now... I dun just buy into whatever that sounds good for the child... or whatever other parents are doing... but that mini get together with the mummy friend had somehow made me feel and think to myself, am I doing enough as a mother???

During one of those regular Sunday visits to the library with Yule, I saw this book on Momfidence! Lose the Guilt, Love your Instincts!.. looked interesting...so I borrowed it.. and read it... and wow! Love it! It had such an amazing impact on me!! Really, motherhood is not about losing ourselves into the media, parenting books, 'perfect' advice from mummy friends, researches that say what and what is good... its really about our instincts and sometimes simply common sense! Its really one of those heartening read that made me laughed and felt good about myself.. and I'm so happy I actually finished the whole book (I actually cannot remember when was the last time I finished one whole book, and not giving up halfway!)

One of those impactful chapter is when the author mentioned how her eldest boy do not and literally do not eat other things except chicken nuggets.. and must be those frozen type and a particular brand (I can relate to this as Yule is also quite a picky eater). While she tried all ways and means to feed her son nutritious stuff and serving them in some fanciful ways (again, I can relate to this as this is also what I have been trying every now and then) to entice him to eat other things, it just doesn't work... Obviously, she'll have to make do with queries and stares from other mummies, that why is she always feeding her son 'unhealthy' chicken nuggets, will he grow up fine, is he getting enough nutrition, food pyramid??? etc etc... well well, her son is now in elementary school, and actually top the class for physical fitness! And thankfully more willing to eat different type of food... so what does it say??? If the child does not want to eat healthy nutritious lovely prepared food, just be thankful that he can eat and is still eating something!

Just some quotes from the book:

"Good mothering, ultimately, is in the eye of the beneficiary. Too often we play to a crowd that doesn't count: to the advice mongers in the media, to the imagined stares of perfect strangers, to the darting eyes of other insecure mommies. Worse of all, we play the perfect mother of all mothers who exist exclusively in our heads. The only audience that matters is the one we tuck in at night"

"Momfidence is raising your child freehand, rather than with a paint-by-numbers kit. To paraphrase Lucy van Pelt of Peanuts: The expert is Within."

"Momfidence is the confidence that comes from knowing everybody else is pretty much winging it, too."

Once again, whatever guilt feelings I gathered from the mini get together with mummy friend is gone. I believe its about being confident as a mummy and knowing that I know whats best for my child! Well, papa also always says he's glad mummy me is a counsellor who knows a pretty good deal about managing and communicating with children =)

Make way for Momfidence!

Check out the Momfidence website at www.momfidence.com

New Zealand 3 Dec to 16 Dec 2009

2009-12-24T04:11:00.000-08:00

Lizard

2009-12-20T06:22:00.000-08:00

Somehow, I have been most scared of lizards. I can't even bear to hear about lizards, or even look at lizard pictures. So happen one day, I was terrified by a big and blackish looking lizard as I was opening my wardrobe door in the bedroom... and I couldn't even bear to scream (for fear that I will make the lizard jump at me!!!!). I ran out of the room looking really terrified at hubby. At one look, he knew what I must have seen. Yule came to me looking puzzled at my lost of words and kept asking me what happen. All I can say to her is "Mummy is very scared of lizard"...

Little brave Yule kept hugging me, and told me not to be scared, while papa was frantically trying to hit and 'capture' the creature (basically whatever he can do to get rid of the lizard because house rules say wifey and lizard cannot co-exist in the same household!). She was patting my back and my head, for as long as 15 mins, and assuring me in a very gentle tone, telling me its ok and not to be scared. On one hand, I felt rather strange that my little girl was comforting and 'protecting' me, on the other hand, I was enjoying that moment!

I guess it only affirms us that we have done a good job in making her feel secure and protected all these while, and that in time of need, she could take on that protector role too!

The whole episode ended with the unfortunate demise of the lizard... seriously, not that I care abt that blackish creature.. but I did care and pondled when yule asked me "Mummy, 为什么那个lizard要死啊 ?"

I couldn't answer her... maybe the answer would be "Too bad loh!"

Potato Family

2009-12-16T06:48:00.000-08:00

These days, Yule likes to draw people. But her drawing of a 'person' looks more like a potato, and that's what we always call it. So she completed this drawing and called it "Potato Family"!

Discipline

2009-12-02T21:42:00.000-08:00

Discipline is such a big word. And these days I have to be employing disicipliing tactics a few times in a day. Lately I can't help but feel tired about disciplining Yule. Perhaps its also hormones changes, coupled with worries and uncertainties about a new baby, and having to deal with Yule's challenging behaviour. It upsets me pretty much when I see how her strong-willed character, her perseverance, her strive for independence, her wit, her strong command of the langauage (all really good positive traits) can contribute so much to her wilful, demanding, manipulative, impatient behaviour. These days, she often yells '走开', '我不要你'. These are really hurtful words. As much as I tell myself not to take it personally, its hard to do so. I do employ time-out, talking through the behaviour with her, getting her to apologize in disciplining her. The cane was also used in order to make sure she stays at her time-out corner. These strategies used to work very well. I'm was always happy with the outcome, that despite the naughty behaviour, we got our point across and she learnt and said sorry, and we will end off with hugs. However, these tactics were less effective now as he got used to the routines. It takes longer time, much more energy, much more tears and more strokes of cane to get her to acknowledge what she did wrongly and to apologize for her mistake. I guess she is really learning to test our limits and boundaries. Sometimes it appears to me that it is like a battle of power and control. I know at the back of my mind I cannot let her get away with any wilful behaviour, and I must let her know that her parents are in control, but it is just really a tiring process. And I hate to admit that sometimes I notice myself placating her so to prevent any 'eruptions'. I don't want that.

So today, I broke down. I am worried, really worried about the arrival of the second child. Though Yule appears excited about my growing tummy and the baby, I really wonder how it will be like when the sibling arrives. How do I cope with the demands of a newborn and a challenging toddler?

Perhaps my consolation for now is that many times we can still talk sense to Yule as she understands and expresses herself very well, and also not forgetting that she is just like her papa when he was young - the must-win, territoial, smart and manipulative traits. If her papa can turn out well and good, I believe so will Yule.

And perhaps just like what her papa said, maybe I worry too much.

Bye Bye Honda Fit

2009-10-25T06:47:00.000-07:00

Papa wanted to get a new car, a bigger car to make way for the new baby, since two car seats in our Honda Fit possibly means no one else can be in the car.

When we broke the news to Yule that we are going to sell our red Honda Fit, she cried, and really really cried. She kept saying that she doesn't want the car to be sold off and that she will miss the car. Gosh, can't believe this is coming from a two-and-a-half year old. But she really cried every time we talk about selling the car. It took us days to pacify her. (Perhaps its the DVD player and her Tom and Jerry cartoon in our new Wish that did the job!)

We drove the car to the nearby park so that Yule could take pictures with our dear Honda Fit, which is just about 2 months older than her.

1, 2, 3, 4 = Family

2009-10-01T06:40:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are going to have a new addition to our family. Yule seems to get the idea when I told her there's a litle baby in my tummy. She's all thrilled.

One Saturday where we were lazing in bed, Yule started counting, since she's rather into counting these days. She was counting 1, 2, 3, 4 and pointing to papa, mummy, mummy's tummy and herself at the same time. And she ended her counting and said 'Family'!

Such a sweet jie jie.

Lesson #3 Learn to let go

2009-09-20T01:22:00.000-07:00

These days, Yule seems to want to do everything on her own. Like bathing, drying herself using towel, applying moisturiser on herself, wearing her clothes, taking off her clothes, wearing her shoes, wearing socks, opening the fridge to search for food, feeding herself, washing her own dishes, wahsing her own shoes, taking the basket at NTUC, paying at the cashier when we buy things, opening and closing the door by herself, pressing the lift button... the list goes on and on...

Without doubt, Yule is at the stage of Autonomy versus Shame and Doubt, according to Erikson's Stages of Psychosocial Development. It says "Children need to develop a sense of personal control over physical skills and a sense of independence. Success leads to feelings of autonomy, failure results in feelings of shame and doubt".

We are defintely happy that Yule is growing and learning appropriate to her age. Certianly, it also seems that its geat that she is learning to do many things on her own now. But in fact, I believe those who have also gone through this stage of parenthood would agree with me that it does not necessary mean an easier time if our child is learning to do things on their own. It could actually mean more work, as we are battling with an assertive toddler, who wants to do things on her own, but not exactly the way we would want it, or as 'proper' as if we were to do it for her, or as fast as we would prefer it. On days where we just need to get things done fast to prepare to go out or to rush to do something, having to 'entertain' her and allow her to do things by herself can actually be quite annoying!

I realise I have to learn to move on together with her. By moving on, it would mean learning to let go, telling myself its ok that things may not always need to be 'properly' done. Perhaps that would mean less battling and certainly less frustration on my side!

Well well, nevertheless, it may still be easier said than done!

Our pretty Yule

2009-09-15T01:57:00.000-07:00

Temperaments and Personality

2009-09-07T03:44:00.000-07:00

We always make predictions of how Yule will be like when she is older based on observations of her personality traits now. For example, since Yule is always on-the-go, often impatient and has short attention span, Ah Ma and Por Por believe that Yule can't really sit still long enough to learn next time when she is in school. I am always wondering how much of the behaviours she is exhibiting are typical of toddlers' behaviours and how much it will provide clues to how she will be like when she grows up.

I read that there are nine traits to a toddler's temperament.
1. activity level
2. rhythmicity
3. approach - withdrawal
4. adaptability
5. persistence - attention span
6. intensity of reaction
7. distractibility
8. threshold of responsiveness
9. quality of mood.

Here's what I think of my little Yule's temperament and personality:
1. Activity Level describes the amount of physical movement during sleep and awake periods. Yule is efinitely full of energy. In fact, she appears like she'll never run out of energy. Sometimes she will do without her afternoon nap, and hardly appear cranky if there are things to do and games to play. Love the outdoors.

2. Rhythmicity refers to the regularity of functions like sleep or hunger. Yule is not quite predictable in this. She seems to be able to go without food and sleep if she is happily engaged. The only thing that is habitual is the morning milk she will always be crying for.

3. Approach - withdrawal refers to the initial response to a new situation or stimulus. Yule seeks new playmates, new exciting places. However, she is also cautious and wants someone to be with her, but quickly warms up to the new place/plymates if she knows that fun is awaiting her.

4. Adaptability refers to the ease or difficulty with which reactions can be modified. I would say she is pretty adaptable. I guess that's why people like her and find her adorable, as she eases into the company of people very easily. I hear comments made by friends, relatives, passerbys that seldom do they see a toddler who opens up to people so readily.

5. Persistence - attention span is a description of how long a child with stay at any given activity. Defintely a low for Yule. She can hardly sit still for 1 minute, even when the TV is on, unless is her favourite DVD programme. But wherever there is a familiar tune on TV, she will jump from the sofa and start to dance and jump. Lately, she is very much into Play-Doh, which at least can keep her occupied for a while.

6. Intensity of reaction refers to the energy level of the response that is typical for the child. I would think its pretty high. She can be so super sensitive and sweet, yet so super wilful and stubborn, and can be dramatic at times. Sometimes, we even call her the 'Drama Queen'!

7. Distractibility refers to how much or how little extraneous stimuli is needed to interfere with an ongoing activity. Yule is highly distractable, mostly to people and things happening around her.

8. Threshold of responsiveness refers to how intense a stimulus needs to be to evoke a response from a child. Yule doesn't require an intense stimulus to evoke a response, which is why she is highly and easily excitable from anything. Her dramatic movements include the endearing and excited behaviours when she sees us return home. She jump and run, pull and tug and exclaim how much she misses us!

9. Quality of mood refers to the general tone of the child’s responses and behaviors. Yule is always happy, loves attention, and loves praises and loves new challenges and, above all, loves to win!

All in all... this is how I would describe Yule's temperaments and personality now:
- Highly energetic, loves to be part of any action
- Loves to be the centre of attention, so loves to show off!
- Highly competitive, always want to win
- As a result, very kiasu!
- Very cautious when it comes to new experiences, don;t really dare to try unless being accompanied
- Can be stubborn sometimes
- But can also be super sweet and follow our instructions
- Loves the outdoor
- Loves to be with the gor gors and jie jies at the playground and can be so super friendly that she encounters rejection!
- Can't be independent... always stick to any one of us like super glue... follow whereever we go, even in the house.
- But when it comes to little tasks, she wants to do them on her own and demand praises after that!

I guess few years down, it may be interesting to look back to this list to note how much are these the same or different.

Word Recognition

2009-08-08T07:41:00.000-07:00

Yule is lately intersted in reading alphabets and feels greatly excited when she sees words around. She recognises all the 26 alphabets now, though occasionally forgot one or two, but is not able to read words yet. Just today, we were walking at Jurong Point, passing by Starbucks. Out of fun, papa encouraged Yule to read the letters. She slowly goes 'S', 'T', 'A', 'R', and she said 'Star' to our great surprise! So exciting! Yule is beginning to read!

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

2009-08-06T02:10:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Connie Talbot of Britain's Got Talent (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWNoiVrJDsE), I'm also teaching Yule this beautiful song!
Just the first sentence though =)

Lesson #2 Use words of affirmation as often as you can

2009-07-26T07:53:00.000-07:00

Words of Affirmation - Its one of the five languages of love, written by author Gary Chapman. "In communicating love, words are powerful. Words of afectionand endearment, words of praise and encouragement, words that give positive guidance all say,"I care about you." Such words are like a gentle, warm rain falling on the soul; they nurture the child's inner sense of worth and security. Even though such words are quickly said, they are not soon forgotten. A child reaps the benefits of affirming words for a lifetime"

One day, Yule was eating macoroni soup prepared by me. The usual stuff. And she suddenly came running to me while I was still in the kitchen washing dishes, and said "Mummy, 你煮的很好吃leh!" Then she hugged me and ran off to continue her meal. Of course it made me feel so good! The power of affirming words...

Looks like Yule is not the only one reaping the benefits from affirming words, her mummy is also enjoying how words of affirmation from her daughter is making her feel so loved!

Lesson #1 Do not make excuses for ourselves

2009-07-25T00:15:00.000-07:00

There are little lessons learnt in our day to day interaction with little yule Indeed that's how people have been saying that as parents, we learn from our little ones too...

A little conversation yule had with her papa made me reflect on how we always thought we can't do something, but in fact we are just making excuses for ourselves...

Yule: (taking a hairband and was trying to tie her own hair, but realised she cannot tie her own hair yet)
Yule: 爸爸, 帮我绑头发.
Papa: 爸爸不会绑啦.
Yule: 你是大人 leh
Papa: ... (speechless since he is being 'suan' and therefore has to tie yule's hair for her!)

Letter recognition

2009-07-09T06:44:00.000-07:00

At 2 years 2 months old, Yule has started to recognise letters.. YEAH!! Whenever she sees a familiar letter, she will run to the fridge to pick up a magnetic letter to show that she knows the letter. Highly recommended: Leapfrog Letter Factory. Yule loves it! It amazes me how she can sit through the DVD, with great interest, for 30 mins!

Sentosa Luge and Skyride

2009-06-23T00:03:00.000-07:00

We went as a big family to Sentosa over the weekend. We went for the Luge and Skyride, Dolphin Lagoon, Underwater World and played at the beach. Yule enjoyed herself so much that she even proclaimed '宇乐很高兴!'

I was so scared of the Skyride that broke into tears. Surprisingly, Yule was so brave and stayed calm and still while sitting on the Skyride. When asked if she was scared, she would say '宇乐不怕'. She would even tell me 'Mummy, its OK, 不会怕的.' I can't believe I am holding on so tightly to my little daughter because I was so scared of heights, and she has to assure me that its ok! Whatever it is, I told papa I'll never sit on it again. As if being worried that she would fall off is not bad enough, I still have to sit through the ride being so fearful of heights!

Here's the sentosa link for a peek at the Luge and Skyride.
http://www.sentosa.com.sg/explore_sentosa/attractions/gallery_luge/gallery.html

Toilet Training

2009-06-16T21:43:00.000-07:00

Toilet training Yule has been the most headache of it all. I'm always paraniod that what if she is still not toilet trained by the time she goes Nursery 1 next year? Or she will refuse to go 'sh sh' with the classmates when the teachers bring them to the toilet? We are also wondering why is it that she can talk so much but just not able to communicate to us that she needs to sh sh? Yes yes yes... all the talk about being patient when toilet training toddlers, and the time will come when they will be ready.. I've read it... but I've always wonder when will the time come for her. Waiting and waiting...

And thankfully, almost like dream come true (a little exaggerated la!), for the past 2 weeks yule has been able to tell us that she wants to 大便 or 小便. When I put her on her training pants, and reminded her again and agian to tell me when she wants to 'sh sh', she would be able to do so already,though not all times. The first time when she told me she wants to 小便, and I brought her to the toilet not knowing if its for real or is she just trying to be funny, it happened! She peeed! I praised her and clapped for her so happily. On the same day, it happened another time, she said 'Mummy, 我要小便' , and again I brought her to the toilet wasn't too sure if its for real too, and she peeed again! Wow! Can't believe I can be so happy at her Pee!! I smsed papa immediately who suggested giving her her favourite jelly beans as reward! So that was how yule had a mini celebration for being (partially) toilet trained!

Well, there are still times where naughthy yule will play us out. I suppose she already knows we will react almost immediately when she says that she wants to 大便 or 小便, so she may try to do that just to get our attention. For example, on weekend mornings when she wakes up at 7am but we tend to ignore her cos we want to sleep a little longer (haha.. bad parents!) she will try different stunts to wake us up... and of course, one of her stunts is 'Mummy, 我要大便', and she may just get her way, cos I will drag myself out of bed to bring her to the toilet.... and there may not be poo poo all the time. When there is no poo poo, she will just give me that innocent little voice '没有大便, Mummy 抱我下来!' and she would have successfully woken me up.

I thought during this toilet training phase, training pants have been especially helpful, cos it will hold 1 pee if we can't bring her to the toilet in time, or she forgot to tell us. Got this set of training pants online. Thought its really good. Otherwise, think our house may be smelling of her pee pee.

Time flies

2009-06-16T03:05:00.000-07:00

Its been about 2 months since mummy last updated the blog. Papa has been asking how come never update blog? Hmmm.. how come he never update it himself?!

My litle yule has grown so much... and she has already turned 2! I can still remember vividly (as if it just happened last week!) my labour process, my horrible breastfeeding experience, how I cried when I looked at her shevn head, and how I also cried so badly when I first sent her to infant care. Sadly, looking at how much yule had grown, I seemed to have forgotten little details, despite photos and video clips, of yule's milestones. I can't remember how it was like to baby talk to her too; I can't remember how it was lke to carry her when she was only half her weight now, I can't remember how it was like too during those days where we had trained her to sleep on her own (cos now she will refuse to sleep on her own already - we will have to accompany her on the bed till she falls asleep).

My yule has certainly grown so much... I can't be more proud of her little achievements and of course my own achievements in parenting as well.. be it disciplining her or cooking up different recipes of food for her. And everyday I'm loving her more and more.

A recent cute pic of her... photo edited by papa...

Discipline vs Punishment

2009-04-28T18:35:00.000-07:00

Last night, Mummy spent some time at night before Yule's sleep to do some pillow talk... was kind of amazed about what was said...

mummy: mummy loves yule, and everybody loves yule
yule: everybody 不喜欢 yule
mummy: everybody LOVES yule
yule: everybody 不喜欢 yule
mummy: why not?
yule: yule 罚站
mummy: If yule is naughty, yule will have to 罚站, but papa and mummy still love yule, and everybody loves yule
yule: (pause) 爸爸骂
mummy: papa scolds yule because yule was naughty, but papa still loves yule. 爸爸喜欢宇乐吗?
yule: (pause) 喜欢. 爸爸喜欢宇乐
mummy: ok. mummy loves yule too... goodnight
yule: goodnight

It amazes me that 2 year old Yule is capable of reflection, and her ability to process what was going on. That very same evening when papa was driving Yule and Ah Ma back home, Yule started to dig her throat using her finger. That was not the first time she did that, and despite scolding and asking to stop, she continued while in the car, and vomited all over herself and the car seat... certainly, papa has to get the point across that the 'digging throat' behaviour is not to be tolerated. When they reached home, Yule was caned on the forearm and made to stand at the corner for 1 minute.

After that Papa hugged Yule and explained to her the reason for the punishment. Yule will always agree that she will not do it again, but we can only keep our fingers cross. By the time I reach home at night, Yule was already happy and jumpy as usual.

I do believe that when the child misbehaves, and especially in ways which she already knows that are not allowed or to be tolerated, she should be punished. As parents, we have to exert that authority, and she will have to learn to comply, and be clear of her boundaries. However, after the punishment, there should be some 'talking' to address that punishment and behaviour. That is discipline.

The night's pillow talk was especially effective, to also reinforce the point that despite the misbehaviour, we still love her. I think, that is really important... I certainly don't want her to think that because she has to be punished, she is not being loved. In fact, I didn't expect her little mind to think so much about it. Thought she would have kind of forgot about the episode, as she was quick to go back to her usual jumpy self. I'm so glad that I had that pillow talk with her that night, and that I got to know her thoughts.. and yes.. it still amazes me that my 2 year old has that ability to process her thoughts!

One day she will know it is precisely because we love her, that's why we are disciplining her. And discipline will be an ongoing journey.

Papa and mummy love you!

Yule turns 2!

2009-04-27T19:07:00.000-07:00

A simple birthday celebration for yule by the people whom she adores and who adore her so much.

Happy Birthday to Papa!

2009-04-02T07:46:00.000-07:00

Birthday Song

2009-03-27T06:49:00.000-07:00

Practising the birthday song for papa...

I love to sing

2009-03-26T07:14:00.000-07:00

This is my version of 泥娃娃

Ultimate jealousy

2009-02-20T07:16:00.000-08:00

Yule is always jealous when affection is not given to her but to somebody else. We think its the ultimate when she is actually upset and jealous when she saw this photo. She was crying and yelling "爸爸不要抱Lucky, 抱Yule!!"

Ten reasons why we adore you so much

2009-02-17T01:02:00.001-08:00

1. Although sometimes you will wake us early at 7am, yelling "I want MILK MILK, I am hungry!', there are also times you will greet us 'Good morning papa, good morning mummy' and give us a kiss, a hug and a squeeze.

2. You are perceptive and observant, and know when we are angry with what you have done, and will say 'Mummy angry' and will come and sayang mummy by stroking on mummy's face.

3. You will automatically say 'Thank you Mummy' or '谢谢 por por' or to whoever who gives or pass you something.

4. You will tell us how much milk you would like '多多' or '少少' so we will just prepare what you've asked for.

5. You will greet us with a hug or kiss when we come back home. Or you will stop whatever you are doing at the playground and come running to us when you spotted us from afar.

6. You will do your signature 'cute cute' pose when we are taking photos (but when we wantto take a second shot, you will come running and insist that you want to see the photo in the camera.

7. You are able to address everyone in the family: 爸爸, 妈咪, 婆婆, Ah Ma, 姑姑, 姑嫜, 叔叔, 婶婶, 哥哥, 姐姐, 舅舅, 阿姨, 姨婆 and knowing our names too! Naughtily, you will even call us by our names!

8. You are sociable, friendly and playful and love playing with your little friends at the playground and will even take care of those younger than you. Sometimes we do feel bad that you are so friendly that you are often 'rejected' by your little friends at the playground.

9. You are so talkative and parrot what we say.. anything good or bad, and sometimes giving us a good laugh.

10. You will hug and and kiss mummy, and even bring mummy a tissue when you see mummy crying (when its actually just eye drop!)

Couldn't help but have to add on more...

11. You will say you miss mummy and 'I love you, mummy'.

Shoes Shoes Shoes

2009-02-14T23:16:00.000-08:00

Somehow Yule always gets new shoes from people.. my friends, her 姑姑, ah ma, or sometimes I also buy for her. She ended up having alot of shoes! I can't help it but to take a picture of the shoes she has, and these are not even all.. there are some at her ah ma's place... think at least 2 more pairs...

Our current favourites...

Happy New Year

2009-01-25T23:32:00.000-08:00

Yule had been trained to say these for the New Year!
新年快乐
恭喜发财
红包拿来

December playmates

2008-12-19T22:50:00.000-08:00

December is the school holidays and Yule got to spend alot of time with Mummy and Mummy's friends and their kiddos. There's Xinhui jie jie, Ace di di and Chloe jie jie.

Family Fun at Bintan

2008-12-15T22:49:00.000-08:00

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

A day at Hort Park and Henderson Bridge

2008-11-29T22:37:00.000-08:00

The World's Greatest by R Kelly

2008-11-17T19:47:00.000-08:00

This song is so upliftting and addictive! Love it and glad the children did too! Incidentally, doesn't the name 宇乐 mean the world's greatest too! =)
Hope Yule will grow up to love this meaningful song. Every child is the greatest in their very own way!

3 birthdays in October!

2008-10-31T18:49:00.000-07:00

Tele-conversation

2008-10-30T20:02:00.000-07:00

I guess Yule's advanced language development and how she is such a smart and active little girl makes papa and mummy so proud of her. She is speaking in phrases now and sometimes can switch from english to mandarin depending who she is speaking to! Perhaps it is how she is able to relate to us through language that makes our heart goes with her. Love her every minute! She could now even have a pretty decent telephone conversation with us adults, cutely, at 18 month. It can go like this:

Mummy: Yu-le!
Yule: Mummy!
Mummy: 吃饱了吗?
Yule: 饱
Mummy: 有没有乖?
Yule: 有
Mummy: 你要去哪里?
Yule: gaigai
Mummy: Mummy loves you!
Yule: you!
Mummy: Kiss kiss
Yule: hmm-mack!
Mummy: Mummy coming back soon ok?
Yule: ok
Mummy: bye bye
Yule: bye bye

Time-out vs Gorilla?

2008-10-27T18:54:00.000-07:00

The struggle for independence and autonomy goes on, even more so when little Yule's language developement is prety advanced. While she can be obliging at times, she can be testing our limits other times too. She continues to love to say '不要', and adding on to her vocabulary is 'Don't want'. Well well, mummy and papa have our ways to tackle this:

The pro-positive-parenting me will try the 'time-out' method when little Yule's behaviour gets out of the limit. Like pulling our spectacles or hitting our face when she knows she is not supposed to, she will have to 'stand in a corner', or '罚站'. She understands both the english and chinese command very well and knows exactly what she is supposed to do. When she is in a cooperative mood, she will go stand against the wall on her own (in a very cute way, she does it!). When she doesn't want to cooperate, I will be pulling her to stand against the wall. She will stand for maybe just 3 secs and come running back to me for a hug (or ask her ah ma or por por to 'save' her if they are around). I will insist that she say 'sorry', which she will gesture by placing her hand on her head. This works well so far in stopping whatever naughty acts we want her to stop.

Papa has his own unconventional way of discipline. I guess his greatest strength is to change the situations to like a big prank or joke. When little Yule gets naughty or does not want to obey our instructions, the unconventional papa will say 'Gorilla 来了!' or 'Big bad wolf 来了', and little Yule will then quickly do what we asked her to, or at least before the next 'creature' comes along! In a very strange way, Papa just always have his way of getting to our little girl! =)

Its so funny to see how she reacts to our ways of disciplining. I couldn't agree with what papa does sometimes, but then again, I can't help but give it to him that his method can be more effective than mine at times!

Happy Birthday to Mummy!

2008-10-17T07:05:00.000-07:00

Chiam Yu Le or Dumb Yu Le?

2008-10-12T21:54:00.000-07:00

Little Yule could say her FULL name and pronouncing her surname 'Chiam' pretty well too. It's really cute to hear her say 'Chiam Yu Le' when we ask her for her name. Ocassionally, 'Chiam Yu Le' can sound like 'Dumb Yu Le', and we'll really have a good laugh.

Happy Children's Day

2008-10-01T00:18:00.000-07:00

Today is Children's Day, and I've got 2 new 'piggy' banks - 1 Happy Bear and 1 Happy Cat - to start to save money!

I am 17th Month Old

2008-09-27T00:31:00.000-07:00

Star by Bryan Adams

2008-09-20T19:40:00.000-07:00

During a motivational workshop I conducted for the primary 6 pupils, I played the song 'Star' by Bryan Adams for them. I simply love this song, and I'm glad the kids love it too. This song brings tears to my eyes and helps to heal.... We all need a shining star when things get hard to take, so tonight we're gonna wish upon a star we never wished upon before

Here's the lyrics...

What cha wanna be - when you grow up
What cha gonna do - when your time is up
What cha gonna say - when things go wrong
What cha wanna do - when youre on your own

Theres a road - long and winding
The lights are blindin - but it gets there
Dont give up - dont look back
Theres a silver linin - its out there somewhere
Everybody wants an answer - everybody needs a friend
We all need a shinin star on which we can depend
N so tonight were gonna wish upon a star
We never wished upon before - (to find what youre
Looking for)
Therell be times - in your life
Ya when you be dancin n shit - but you aint gettin it
But dont get disillusioned - no, dont expect too much
Cuz if what you have is all you can get - just keep on
Tryin - it just aint happened yet
Everybody wants ta be winner - everybody has a dream
We all need a shinin star when things aint what they seem
So tonight were gonna wish upon a star
We never wished upon before - (gotta get where youre
Headed for)

Everybody wants some kindness - everybody needs a break
We all need a shinin star when things get hard to take
So tonight were gonna wish upon a star
We never wished upon before

Mad. Sad. Glad. Scared.

2008-09-20T07:24:00.000-07:00

Mad. Sad. Glad. Scared. The 4 basic emotions.

Little Yule has learned how to act out the 4 basic feelings. And she does it in such a cute way!. When asked how to show an angry face, she will hold her fist, stamp her feet and sometimes even given a stern look. When asked to show a sad face, she will pout her lips and make a whining sound. When asked to show happy face, she will squeal in delight, and when asked to show scared, (or 怕怕) she will pat her chest. Little Yule also know how to show a surprise look, by putting both her hands on her cheeks and opening her mouth wide! Oh, one more, Yule even know how to 扮鬼脸!

I can't help but laugh and laugh as she pleasantly surprised me that she actually knows how her feelings 'look like'!

Happy Yule

2008-09-13T08:45:00.000-07:00

Lantern or Candles?

2008-09-06T08:55:00.000-07:00

Carrying lantern or blowing candles? I think I prefer to blow candles!

Papa and Me

2008-09-01T08:09:00.001-07:00

不要！

2008-08-31T06:55:00.000-07:00

Recently, Yu Le has learned how to say '不要!' She used to love saying '要!' to most things we ask her, and when she doesn't want something ( usually during feeding time), she will just keep shaking her head or turn away or give a whining sound. Now when she has mastered '不要!', she is no longer so obliging, at least not until we play a little reverse psychology game with her. It almost seems like she realises now that she has another option other than the ever-obliging '要!', and she loves using it now! She will say '不要!' to many of the things which she would previously say yes to, and enjoy the reactions she sees in us! Like throwing her diapers, she will say '不要!' now, ask her if she wants to listen to Barney songs or not, she will say '不要!', and ask her if she wants to eat something, she will say '不要!' agian, but quickly changes to '要!' when she realises its something she wants. It almost seems like my little tod is now capable of talking back too! 'How fast she has started to talk back' I thought to myself.

Well, I guess it's a normal phase where my little girl is learning assertiveness now. I suppose she is still rather obliging despite her learning how to say 'no' now. Whenever we change the task to a little game or a little challenge or somewhat like a reverse psychology, it still works to get her to throw her diapers, or getting her to wait, or picking up her toys. So little Yu Le still remains the cute little Yu Le, or even cuter now!

Mummy's thoughts

2008-08-27T06:38:00.000-07:00

At 16 month old, Yu Le has achieved 2 major milestones....

Everytime when we asked her 'Where is Yu Le?', she will point at herself. And when we asked 'What's your name?' and 'Who is this?' (pointing at her picture), she will still point at herself, not able to call out her name yet. Today, when we asked her 'What's your name?' or '你叫什么名字?', she is able to call out her own name. It's indeed a pleasant surprise. She's not pronuncing her name very accurately yet, but it's so cute to see her excitedly shouting her own name when asked. I'm so happy.

Another major milestone - Yu Le is weaning off her 'tutu' (pacifier). For the first night since she was 2 months old (or was it earlier?), she has slept without her favourite, must-have 'tutu'. She kept asking for it, but we just keep telling her we throw it away, snd there is no more 'tutu'. It took quite a long while of carrying, hugging and story telling (by her papa) for her to fall asleep. Again, I'm so happy. Days where we can't go anywhere without her tutu will be gone soon...

Sing-a-pore

2008-08-22T22:19:00.000-07:00

Another attempt at 3-syllabus

Mummy: Yule, say 'Singapore'
Le: por!
Mummy: Ok, now try 'Sing'
Le: ting!
Mummy: 'nga'
Le: ah!
Mummy: 'pore'
Le: por!
Mummy: Sing-a-pore!
le: por-por-por!

Papaya

2008-08-12T22:13:00.000-07:00

Papa is trying to teach me the 3-syllabus word 'papaya'... here's how it goes

Papa: pa-pa-ya
le: paya!
papa: ok, now let's try to say 'pa'
le: pa!
papa: pa-pa
le: papa!
papa: pa-pa-ya
le: paya!
papa: pa-pa-ya
le: paya!

Looks like I'm still stuck with 2 syllabus =)

I am a Fortune Baby

2008-08-09T06:23:00.000-07:00

I am the little domestic helper (part 2)

2008-08-02T07:31:00.000-07:00

Learning ballet?

2008-07-29T04:58:00.000-07:00

Mummy: Yule, do you want to learn ballet when you are older?
Yule: (nodding head) 要啊！

Mummy's thoughts

2008-07-27T03:58:00.000-07:00

At 15 month old, my little Yule is learning and advancing at such an amazing rate that I realise she is no longer a baby. She is really a toddler already! Time really flies while I can only try to recall those times where she was learning how to crawl. In fact she started to crawl backwards which was really a funny sight, and then she started to do the caterpillar crawl where she will throw her body forward to move a little bit. Later she progressed to cruising and then walking. I remembered she was able to walk before she could do squats and get into a standing position without support. Now, my ever eager little girl rather runs than walks! Its just so sweet seeing her running towards me with so that I could catch her with my arms. And she is climbing up and crawling (backside first) down our bed very carefully and confidently now. She loves to play hide and seek with her papa, by going to different corners of the house to look for papa. Little Yule even knows how to hide and immediately run out to us as if she is trying to surprise us! It's really sooooo funny.

Little Yule is talking quite alot and is very responsive too! It's great to see her able to express her needs so well, which can certainly minimise her frustration in her attempt to be understood. It surprises us that she seems to understand EVERYTHING we say to her. Well, I may be a little exaggerated when I say 'EVERYTHING', but for a 15 month old, I really think its 'EVERYTHING'. She seems to understand our instructions or commands and does it most of the time. 'Throw the diapers in the dustbin', 'Put the milk bottle on the kitchen table', 'Sit down and take off your shoes'. And she is able to do all the cute and sweet little gestures like 'Hug mummy', 'Kiss papa', 'Cute Cute' (where she will put her finger on her cheek), 'Shake your backside', 'Turn around', 'Dance'.... whatever we say, she learns it real fast and does it! Now she is able to make some animal sounds like 'Moooo' (cow), 'Wo Wo' (dog), 'Mehhhh' (sheep) and when she says 'Quak Quak' (duck), she flaps her arms too! I had a good laugh the first time I saw her doing that. I think she learns that 'Quak Quak' sound and action from the Barney VCD. Its so cute seeing her doing all these little amazing things. Its no wonder Si Yi (4th Aunt) says Yule is like in a circus! She does whatever we tell her to!

One recent episode was when her papa and I was trying to put the nose drip for her to clear her nose, and I thought it will be like the usual battle where I have to hold her head and hands while her papa drip in the nose drip. Her papa decided to try something different by talking to her and to let her know that it is an ok experience and it won't hurt. So papa told her nicely what we are going to do and it won't hurt. She nodded her head a few times and said 'Orh' in response and in agreement, and to my surprise, she allowed us to do the nose drip for her without any battling or fidgeting at all! Yet another amazing episode where my little Yule has shown us that she really understood whatever we say to her.

A date with Chloe

2008-07-06T08:01:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Ball

2008-07-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

Just a simple Sunday at West Coast Park playing with my favourite ball with papa and mummy. I like to throw and kick the ball. It's no wonder my papa and mummy call me 'Tom Boy'! Oh, and it's my first time steppng on sand and I kinda like it though I waddle like a duck on sand!

Oh, check out my mushroom haircut too!

I love HK Disneyland!

2008-06-12T07:40:00.000-07:00

I am the little domestic helper

2008-06-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

I'm beginning to learn to help around in the house now. I have learned to keep my toys in the toy basket, I have learned to throw my used diapers in the dustbin, and I have also learned to put dirty clothes in the laundry basket... I am so proud of myself, and whenever I have accomplished the little task you asked me to do, I'll give myself a clap and show you a big big grin, and I'll come running towards you waiting for a 'Well Done' hug =)

Look, I am seriously not boasting. I am only 13 month old and I can wipe the floor!

A Little Explorer

2008-05-22T23:41:00.000-07:00

I am fully mobile now, I can walk, I can squat, I can sit, I can crawl and I can get up on my own. I simply love my new found freedom and will not give any corner in the house a miss! My new favourite places to explore are those 'banned' items in the house like telephones, dustbins and even toilet bowls. Not forgetting the kitchen drawers with all those interestig plates and bowls. I am even fascinated by the expressions my mummy, papa and ah ma show on their faces when I explore these favourite places. Their 'No' makes me even more persistent to try... Guess I'll never get bored with these forbidden items...

This is me and the kitchen dustbin which I like to drag around in the house!

HuGs and KISSeS

2008-05-19T02:19:00.000-07:00

Recently, I like to do hugs and kisses. I hug mummy, papa, ah ma, por por, barney, doggie, elmo... and I even pat pat them on their back when I hug them, just like how mummy and papa hug and pat pat me.

I love to kiss people I love too... hmmmm, but you may not think its a real kiss though, cos its like implanting my saliva on your lips or cheeks by giving you an open lips big mouth kiss!! heee heee. that's my signature KISS!!

But I have a mind of my own too... I can be 'dao' and not kiss you when you ask me to... I may just shake my head vigourously and run away!! So don't you think you can steal a KISS from me...

Happy 1st Birthday!!

2008-04-27T04:17:00.000-07:00

Vanilla ice cream saved my life!

2008-04-07T07:47:00.000-07:00

I had fever for 3 days, and lost my appetite. On the third day, I even refused all milk and water. Papa and Mummy brought me to see Dr Chong. Dr Chong warned that if I do not take water at all for the next 12 hours, I would be dehydrated and need to be admitted to hospital for a drip. However, I was refusing all fluids. Dr Chong suggested giving Vanilla Ice Cream to me. Mummy was shocked to hear that I can take ice cream even though I'm sick, but still went to buy the ice cream immediately... I took a few mouthful and I love it! When I reached home, I was willing to take some milk.

So... vanilla ice cream saved my life and I need not be sent to the hospital!

Few days later I developed alot of rashes all over my body. I have poor appetite, irritable, gets tired very easily and have swollen eyelids. Dr Chong says its false measles and mummy and papa need not be too worried.

Now that I have recovered, I'm wondering when I can eat the yummy yummy ice cream again!

Yes and No

2008-03-28T07:25:00.000-07:00

Although I still can't say most things, I love to nod my head or shake my head to indicate a yes or a no when you ask me something, like 'Yu Le, you want eat this?' I will nod my head. 'Yu Le, you want to go playground and see bird bird?' I will nod my head. 'Yu Le, you poo poo already? I will nod my head. 'Yu Le, drink water.' I will shake my head. I always seem to give the right reponse to the question even though I may not understand the question, and that can sometimes give my papa and mummy a good laugh.

I always anticipate a 'No' from mummy by shaking my head even before she says a 'No'. Like climbing up the sofa to pick up the telephone, I will shake my head first before mummy says 'No'. I will also shake my head when I pull the car handle even before my mummy shouts 'No'. But the curious and mischievous me would always love to repeat these acts, and always shaking my head even before mummy says 'No'.

Walking at 11 month

2008-03-27T07:03:00.000-07:00

Today, I walked 6 steps on my own. I tend to be really anxious about walking, like want to charge forward, and then fall into my mummy's arms... my papa says by my 1st birthday, I will definitely be running around already!

FISH

2008-03-19T22:51:00.000-07:00

New word added to my list of vocabs today... I looked at a fish and called out 'SS'! My mummy repeated 'FI-SH' and I said 'SS'.. heeheee...

10 month old baby

2008-03-08T07:38:00.000-08:00

At 10 month old, there's lot of things I can do now, including
many new words I can say, like

papa

mama

ah mah

po (means por por)

oo oo (means my aunt gu gu)

qie (means jie jie)

berd (means bird)

duck

tat (means cat)
bor (means ball)

neh neh (means my all time favourite MILK!)
ooo wah oooo wah (means I'm fascinated)

I really surprised my mummy one day when I looked at a rubber duckie at Toys R Us and said 'duck'! Now, early in the morning (most of the time without fail at 7am), I will yell 'papa' and 'mama' in my cot to wake them up and ask for 'neh neh'. You see! I really know how to get what I want, right?!

Learning to walk

2008-02-24T02:13:00.000-08:00

I love playgrounds now. Every and any playground. My daily routine now includes going to the neighbourhood playground. I love to watch children play and I wish I could join them. See! I'm learning to walk now, and very soon, I want to run around, climb those slides and ride on those rides!

Gong Xi Gong Xi

2008-02-08T07:10:00.000-08:00

First Ang Bao I got from papa and mummy on the eve of CNY

Gong Xi Gong Xi

If you're happy and you know it, you clap your hands

2008-01-27T06:05:00.000-08:00

What's happening at 9 months old...

I have 4 teeth now! But my two upper front teeth are not even yet... 1 is shorter that the other... hopefully the shorter one catches up soon!

I have learned to clap my hands... and I do it all the time now... and when mummy sings ' If you're happy and you know it, you clap your hands', I'll be clapping!

I can stand on my own while leaning against the wall... and clap my hands too! I'm sure proud of it.. and can't stop grinning!

I am really active now.. my papa and mummy call me a worm! as I can't stop wriggling here and crawling there... and what I see, I must grab! My favourite want-to-grab... remote control!

I can even climb onto the sofa now and walk sideway along the sofa using my hands to support...

Oh I love to play hide and seek... you just have to call my name and I'll be able to find you... wherever you are in the house!

I love mirrors too! Its fascinating to see a baby looking excatly like me!

And I simply luuuuvvvvvveee to eat! Whatever you eat, I want to eat too! Whatever you feed me, I will be grinning in delight!

Fun at the pool

2008-01-06T00:29:00.000-08:00

My third time at the pool, and finally not scared of the water anymore!

I am 8 months old

2007-12-27T00:35:00.000-08:00

I'm a big baby now, so papa and mummy 'upgraded' me to a bigger car seat, and won't using the infant car seat anymore. Am I looking cool?

Any mummy also says, big baby will start potty training now!

I'm a one-legged parrot on my pa pa's shoulder

2007-12-25T06:48:00.000-08:00

SSA's Ultimate Rendezvous

2007-12-22T06:53:00.000-08:00

My first time at a concert and my mummy was one of the performers! I was so well-behaved, slept before my mummy's show and woke up just at the right time to watch her!

Today I have a new friend

2007-12-16T06:06:00.000-08:00

Her name is Orange.

'Hello, Orange!'

I am 7 months old

2007-12-04T06:53:00.000-08:00

I love it when you play with me. I kick my legs and swing my arms. I also jump with excitement when you support me to stand, laughing and screaming happily with my mouth wide open, showing off my two tiny teeth. Sometimes I attempt to clap my hands, but my hands won't meet so I end up hitting my chest like king kong. And I simply love it when you greet me Good Morning' every morning, you start off my day with excitement, and I always present you my loveliest smile.

I love to look at faces, and I am especially fascinated with those faces with spectacles so I can grab and pull them out, and put them in my mouth. Don't be surprised that I am really quick and good at grabbing your spectacles, as I even manage to break my Ah Ma' spectacles! Oh, I also love to grab noses, lick chins and bite cheeks. Now, you know what I mean when I say I love all your faces?

I don't like it and cry when you play 'bye bye' with me and walk out of my sight. I don't like to be alone and I want you to play with me. I will cry and scream until you come back and hug me, so that I know you are still with me. Don't you understand? I am trying to tell you 'Don't you go gai gai without me!'

I can utter many sounds now, like 'ooooh', 'ahhhh', 'oooehhh', 'neh neh', 'ma ma', 'da da', 'ba ba'. I can even blow my lips! But I dunno all the meaning of the words I say yet, and I get abit confused with so many words out there, so when I want my milk, I cried 'neh neh, neh neh', and when I am really tired, I also cried 'neh neh, neh neh'. I think I haven't gotten my vocabs quite right yet.

Oh, tummy time is the best, as its the time when I can exercise my little bit of independence. I can rotate 360 degree on my tummy now. And I can stretch my arms to reach for my toys, and hmmm.. anything in fact, like tissue paper, handphone, remote control and my favourite pacifier. When I am in my 'frog' position, I can be on reverse gear any time, and I can be really fast! But, I haven't learned to be crawl in the forward mode yet. Watch me! I will pick that up really soon.

My big eyes are the most curious of all. I love to look at anything and everything.. the dogs, cats, birds, aunties or uncles in the lifts, kor kors and jie jies at the playground. I love the cuckoo clock at home, love to watch Barney, and I am fascinated when I look at myself in the mirror. Most importantly, my sharp little eyes will make sure you don't leave my sight, or least not for too long, otherwise, I'll make sure I can be heard!

An outing to the pool on my 7th month birthday

2007-11-27T17:55:00.000-08:00

Mummy, Ah Ma, Jia Qian jie jie and me went to the pool today. This is my second time at the pool, but I am still scared of water. When I am lowered in the water, I will start to make noise, and I still refused to sit in my float. Jia Qian jie jie is having so much fun while I only sit around to watch her.... when I can swim too?

Papa, Mummy and Me at East Coast Park

2007-11-25T06:32:00.000-08:00

Morning jog

2007-11-12T18:12:00.000-08:00

Mummy plans to bring me for a morning jog on her off days. Mummy will jog while I guai guai sit in my stroller to play my toys or to enjoy the scenery. What a great start to the morning!

Upgrade to bigger bottles

2007-11-10T20:50:00.000-08:00

I have upgraded from the pigeon 200ml bottles to the 300ml bottles, and still managing it very well on my own. I even understand mummy's instructions now. When mummy needs to shake the bottle halfway through the feed to make sure all the milk and cereal is dissolved, she says 'Yu Le, let go' and I'll let go of my grip, and when she puts the bottle back to me again, my hands will grab the bottle and aim the teat at my mouth. Ain't I smart?

My last day at infant care

2007-10-31T07:11:00.000-07:00

Today is my last day at Whispering Hearts Infant and Child Care Centre. Papa and mummy have been sending me there every morning and picking me up in the evening for the past 3 months. After today, my Ah Ma will be looking after me at home. Everyone is really excited, and no more heartache for mummy already.

The place where I was cared for since I was 3 months old

The passageway which my papa, mummy and me walked everyday towards the centre

My favourite teacher Amy and me

That's Emmanuel kor kor, my mummy's favourite boy at the centre. He is 16 months old and sooooo charming and friendly.

Are you thinking what I'm thinking?

2007-10-29T06:37:00.000-07:00

More homemade goodness

2007-10-28T07:05:00.000-07:00

Apple and green peas puree

Pumpkin puree

I am 6 months old and learning to sit on my own

2007-10-27T06:11:00.000-07:00

A Day at the Pool

2007-10-14T20:15:00.000-07:00

Let me recount the 'not-so-exciting' day at the pool

8:00am - Papa and mummy work up and get me ready, all excited. Fed me, packed things and got the baby float ready
8:45am - Set off to Bukit Batok CSC
8:50am - I fell asleep in the car (its about time for my morning nap)
9:00am - Reach CSC. Papa and mummy just realise that the pool won't be open until 10am. (Btw, I am still sleeping). Papa and mummy decided to go Westmall to have breakfast since I'm still sleeping.
9:15am - Reach Westmall where papa and mummy will have breakfast. Somehow, I woke up. (So slept only 15 mins)
10:00am - Went back to CSC. Mummy changed me into my little yellow swimming costume
10:05am - Went to the baby pool. Took pictures. Papa and and mummy tried to put me in my baby float. I don't like it and cried. Papa took me out, tried again, and I cried again.
10:10am - Papa gave up and deflated the float. Mummy just carry me and sit at the baby pool to play with the water, while papa tried to catch a swim.

10:20am - Ten minutes of water playing, I started to yawn. (You see, I did not really have a good morning nap, and its passed my morning nap time already)

10:30am - Papa and mummy packed up and mummy brought me to the bathroom and bathed with me.
10:45am - All settled and left for home.

The end of a not-so eventful first experience at the pool

11:00am - Reached home, drank my milk milk and slept the whole afternoon

Lesson learned: Do not attempt to bring me out until I have a good morning nap. Otherwise, I will be tired, not want to try new things and begin to yawn pretty soon. Oh, papa and mummy, please also remember to check the opening hours of the place we are going to.

The end.

Homemade Goodness

2007-10-13T19:47:00.000-07:00

My mummy made carrot and pear puree for me.. I prefer the pear one, as its sweeter... yummy yummy...

Recipe for Pear Puree
1. Wash the pear

2. Peel the pear

3. Cut the pear into quaters or smaller

4. Put pear into saucepan covered with fresh filtered water

5. Bring to boil

6. Lower heat and simmer for 5 to 7 mins

7. Remove liquid and puree to a smooth texture, using some of the cooking liquid to get the right consistency.

8. Allow mixture to cool

Recipe for Carrot Puree

1. Wash, scrub, peel and cut into pieces

2. Bring to boil

3. Simmer for 12 to 14 mins

4. Puree to smooth and right consistency

5. Allow to cool

Ah Ma and Po Po and me

2007-10-06T20:44:00.000-07:00

Ah Ma and me

Po Po and me

Papa and Me

2007-09-30T08:09:00.000-07:00

Yummy Yummy

2007-09-29T19:45:00.000-07:00

I am 5 months and 2 days old and feeding on rice cereal for the first time! Though it is a completely messy experience, my mummy is pleasantly surprised that I can feed pretty well from the spoon, and more cereal actually went into my little tummy than on my bib, my chin, my neck, my nose, and of course my forehead too!

Chuckle in the car

2007-09-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

My papa likes to turn around from the driver seat and makes loud and funny sounds to me when mummy and I are seated at the back seat. His favourite phrase is 'Ka-Wa-Ban-Ka!' I always chuckle when my papa does that.

Crying for Attention

2007-09-23T01:47:00.000-07:00

Mummy is rather disturbed that these days I always cry for attention, and I want to be carried most of the time. I can't be in the stroller on my own and for long, and need papa or mummy to always look at me and play with me. And when I am sleepy, I'll just turn cranky and make a fuss, and demand to be carried. And once I am being carried, I stop crying almost instantly!

So my papa and mummy find it hard to have a decent meal outside, as very soon they will have to pick me up from the stroller . My mummy realises that she and papa have been giving in to my crying demands, which is not healthy at all.

My mummy is determined to 'train' me, and read the book 'The Baby Sleep Solution' by Suzy Giordano. It talks about a program that teaches baby to learn to self-soothe and to sleep 12 hours throughout the night.

Although I do not have a problem with sleeping through the night now, I have not learned how to soothe and calm myself when I am tired. I just cry and demand to be carried, and rocked to sleep. My mummy hopes that I can learn to self-soothe and sleep on my own.
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Four Foundations of Baby Sleep Success:
1. A baby must adapt to the existing family; the existing family does not adapt to the baby.
2. The parent must feel empowered.
3. Sleeping is a learned skill that need to be taught.
4. Sleep training requires commitment and hard work on the part of the parents.

'Rocking a 12 week old baby over and over again in a glider until he falls asleep is the equivalent of carrying a 2 year old toddler everywhere in your arms over and over again. In each case, the babies have the ability to sleep or walk, respectively, but the parents are constantly "fixing" it for them instead of guiding the babies to do it on their own.'

'The best time to cuddle and love your baby is when he is quiet and cooperative, not when he is crying. Otherwise you are rewarding negative behaviour.'

'Babies who have a schedule, sleep throughout the night, and have good sleeping and eating habits are happy babies. These babies always know where their place in the family is and they who are in charge. They know the love is there, they know the structure is there, and they know the security is there... Because they are well-rested, these babies will be more alert and more willing to listen during their awake times, which in turn means they will be more active learners. They will also be more willing to play contentedly by themselves and not require constant entertainment by parents and other caregivers.'
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Mummy and papa decided that the 'sleep-on-my-own' training starts tonight!

My first Mid-Autumn Festival

2007-09-22T06:01:00.000-07:00

Mummy brought me to the mid-autumn festival celebration at her school. There's so many people and things to see. Mummy's colleagues took turns to carry me and walk me around, I was totally thrilled and excited, and I kicked my legs non-stop! Many of my mummy's colleagues say I've got very nice eyebrow, and I look like my mummy... heee.... but, my papa disagree, he says that I look like him.

Elmo is my Friend

2007-09-15T06:43:00.001-07:00

I can hold my own milk bottle!

2007-09-12T07:07:00.000-07:00

For the past few days, I have been holding my own bottle already! My papa and mummy are always around to 'supervise' me though, in case I drop my bottle. Papa keep saying that its all his credit for training me. Porpor says I very good, so small can hold own milk bottle to drink milk milk already.

My New Makeover!

2007-09-09T04:41:00.000-07:00

Papa says that I keep scratching my head, so better to shave off my head. Papa and mummy thought for very long and decided that since my hair is such a big pom pom and getting so untidy, might as well shave off to give me a clean look... haiz... but my mummy hor, still cried after my hair is gone...

This was how I look just before my makeover...

This is my new clean look! Am I still cute? Wonder If I am now a hairy fairy or a botak fairy?

First flip

2007-09-02T20:35:00.000-07:00

I did my first flip today.. finally know how to flip from tummy to back and back to tummy... all thanks to papa's 'commando' training on me!

I'm bigger now

2007-09-01T00:50:00.000-07:00

Papa and mama brought me to my 4th month check and jab. I'm now 6.4kg and 64cm long, just right for a 4 month old baby...

Going for a haircut

2007-08-26T20:48:00.000-07:00

Mummy says my big pom pom hair is... erm.... abit TOO pom pom already...so decided to bring me for a trim... See! I was so well behaved.

Me and my bumbo

2007-08-25T20:47:00.000-07:00

Check out my big pom pom hair!

My first trip to the pool

2007-08-25T17:45:00.000-07:00

Papa and mummy brought me to the pool for the first time, but mummy says I'm still too small so don't get to swim yet. Mummy and me just sit there and watch papa swim lo.