Last Weekend

Lil Shauna didn't have ice skating class on Saturday but we headed off for our weekly practices. XY and P were at the rink too for practice. We spent almost 2 hours practicing. Like what Teacher Raymond said, Lil Shauna could do most of the moves but just lacked that strength (therefore speed) and precision. But I think the one main improvement is that Lil Shauna is starting to internalise that too and is starting to agree (or repeat?) with me that it is not about being able to do it but do it with “big movements” as we called it. This is probably the result of all my nagging. Hahaha. And I hope it stays with her during class bcos she doesn't have mummy besides her nagging at her during class. 

The girl is a vain pot in her new pony leggings. And had a chance to take a picture with JR.

Lil Isaac delayed the start of his Taekwondo class by another week bcos he wanted to go for a wedding lunch with Daddy Lim. I bet he doesn't know what he got himself into but jumped at the chance bcos jiejie once went alone with Pappy to a wedding lunch. Lol. Unfortunately for him, none of Daddy Lim’s friends brought their kids along and he was the only kid at their table. He was well-entertained by the iPad though.

I don't know what's so tiring with wedding lunch. Oh, he was so happy that he could sit in the front passenger seat bcos jiejie did that once too. Lol.

We met up in the late afternoon, and also with the Chan family. The fathers and the kids headed for the Jurassic World after dinner while the mummies chilled over coffee. The coffee was seriously a great break from the noisy kids. 

On Sunday, we headed to church and Lil Isaac didn't cry for the 2nd consecutive week! He was clingy at the start and I thought that I would be doomed. Fortunately, he was really cooperative and agreed to join his friends for snacks and craft without much negotiation. I hope this would continue for the many more weeks to come.

Both kids were in their roller shoes yday and Lil Isaac and I went practicing after sending jiejie to her Chinese class. The boy finally understood the concept was started rolling. It is probably a little bit of an incorrect technique as well as lousy shoes and he couldn't go very far or fast. But I think it would work for now. Lil Shauna is an expert with her heelys. She could like roll forever and is starting to self-realise how to do tricks. Lil Isaac could only drool for now.

We went rollerblading in the late afternoon in WCP. It had been a long while and it took us some time to get used to be on wheels. Lil Shauna balances really well now. Lil Isaac is still falling but is improving too. We also bought durians to feast at WCP. The whole world seems to be eating durians and we were tempted too. Lil Shauna tried a tiny bit and didn't like it. She said that it tasted worse than it smelled. Haha. Lil Isaac refused to try it. I was so nice. I took pictures of the durians and sent it to ah yee in far away Paris. Hohoho. 

With that, we ended the last weekend before school starts. I hope all work well and back to routine. Oh, did I mention that Lil Shauna would be in the morning class next year? That is what is stated in the MOE’s website. Soon, we will have to start to look for an After-School care for Lil Shauna.

Mummy Lim  

Finally Promoted!

Lil Isaac is coming to the end of the 3rd term for his Launchpad, phonics class. I remembered that Lil Shauna was promoted after 2 terms and she was just finishing nursery class then. Lil Isaac is already half way through k1 and I had been wondering when will he ever be promoted. I was getting a little anxious and had been asking Teacher Lindsey, his phonics teacher, if Lil Isaac can be promoted. "Almost there", "very soon", "a little bit more", I was told. But when lah. Roar.

We had worked hard to help Lil Isaac since the beginning of this year. Especially when I discovered that he is already in k1 and didn't progressed naturally academically as I thought he would, like what happened with Lil Shauna. We started off with writing alphabets, sounding them, writing numbers and his name. Then we finally proceeded to sight words. To date, he knows about 50 sight words.

In the beginning of Launchpad, Lil Isaac learnt the middle sound, on top of the 1st and last sound that he already knew. To progress from Launchpad to Liftoff, Lil Isaac needs to know how to blend easily 3 and 4 sound words and break them. That is to say, he has to be about to read words like "d-o-g" and "c-l-a-p" and he has to be about to spell them not by memorising but listening and using phonics to decode them. On top of that, he has to recognise a list of about 30 sight words.

We had been setting aside some time every evening for homework - either that from school, church or enrichment classes. I am glad to say that Lil Isaac had made obvious progress for his phonics and I thought he fulfilled the requirements for promotion and I had been impatient when Teacher Lindsey didn't say so. Aiyah.

Finally, last Friday, Teacher Lindsey that he did awesome during class and could be promoted starting July! Hohoho. I am so happy. That also mean that we have to reshuffle the lessons and we are thinking of starting him on Maths soon, same as Lil Shauna. Luckily we were able to do so. To me, Liftoff is the most difficult level among all the phonics levels. This is the level that the kids learn to read and learn the sight words that add on as weeks progressed. This is also when spelling will start. I remembered having to practice so hard with Lil Shauna everyday then when she was at that level and it was somewhat like a nightmare. Jia you!

Mummy Lim

Staycation

Do you know the definition of a staycation? 
Basically, you don't get a stamp on your passport but spent almost the same amount of $$ as you would have if you had left Singapore. Haha. 

We had a staycation in Sentosa last Sunday and played tourists. Lucky us that Popo had a free night stay at Michael hotel, RWS. Otherwise, we would really end up spending a lot of $$. Daddy Lim didn't apply for leave and the plan was for me to stay over with the kids and make our way home the next day.

On Sunday, Popo brought Lil Isaac to RWS after church to meet up with my brother’s family while I brought Lil Shauna to Chinese class. Daddy Lim picked us after work and we arrived at the hotel at about 4.30pm. Naturally, the next thing to do is to dip in the pool and Popo disappeared into the casino almost immediately. Dinner was at one of the hotel cafes. The food wasn't too bad and was decently priced. 

The kids then each bought a lego set and we headed to the hotel room. This is Lil Isaac’s 1st mini Lego set and he had a great bonding session with Daddy Lim, fixing up his spiderman set. I am quite amazed with Lego actually. The set is meant for 5 YO and I thought that it would likely be too tough for the little boy, given the many mini pieces and instructions but he did it alright, just like what Lego said.

Meanwhile, Lil Shauna was independent and complete the 7 YO set totally on her own. 

Daddy Lim left at about 10pm. The 2 elder nieces decided to have a sleepover and the rest of the family left shortly too. Popo did appear bcos she was supposed to help with the kids. Not surprising, all she did was to instruct the girls to brush their teeth, settled in bed (to watch TV) and then she disappeared again. Zzzzzz… She didn't stay for more than 30 mins and only returned in the middle of the night. The hotel room only had a double bed. Sleeping arrangement got very creative that night. Ouch, my poor back!

We woke up bright and early the next morning despite the late night and went in search of bfast. We had donuts bcos Mac was jam pack. After bfast, I brought the kids to try the luge. I had always wanted to try the luge since like forever but never get down to doing so bcos it was too late; too hot; too little time; too expensive; too whatever.

Lil Isaac met the minimum height of 110cm but was too young (need to be 6YO) to ride the luge alone. I could easily pass him through but decided that he should pillion with me eventually, which is a great choice. I was glad that we were early bcos the q started forming after us. The luge wasn't tough to drive for an older kid or adult but would need certain strength/ body weight to easily operate it. We paid for 8 rides, inclusive of the skyrides at freaking $76! The idea was to each go for 2 rides. 

Lil Isaac and I had to be the last luge.. Felicia had some problem operating hers and soon, the other 2 girls disappeared and went out of sight. Felicia did get the hang of it after a while but didn't really enjoy the ride. I let Lil Isaac drive the luge at times but a couple of times, I thought that we would fly out of the luge. He basically went into full speed and swiveled at the turns! Not intentionally though. Imagine if he had been alone!

At the end of the ride, we took the skyride back to the top. The kids were worried at 1st but the ride proved to be great.

It was an express q for people who do repeated rounds. Then, Felicia decided that she had enough. So we the rest of us went for the 2nd round without her. Poor girl. Given that we still have 1 single ride left (Felicia’s), I paid for extra rounds. Eventually, Fione and LiL Shauna each went 4 rounds while Lil Isaac and I went 3. You can imagine the hole in my pocket. Blehhhh…

We rushed back to the hotel and couldn't be gladder for aircon. My brother offered to pick us and his girls up and sent us back home. It is pretty cool for a staycation but I would opt for a vacation if I have the choice. Sentosa is so expensive.

Mummy Lim

Lil Isaac

We always struggle with leaving Lil Isaac alone in Sunday School.  I can't remember the last time that he would allow me to leave the class in peace. There was always pleading and tears. Haiz. So after 2 weeks' break, I was dreadful to bring the boy to Sunday school.

We agreed that mummy would leave and he would be alone for only snack and craft time. That would be barely 30 mins. He was great in the beginning, sitting with the other kids and participating while I tucked myself at the back of the room. He just needed to have my presence in the room. The usual clinging and bargaining came during snacks. He did eventually let me leave the room.

I was back half an hour later and my 1st question to the Sunday School teachers was basically if the boy cried. Surprising, no tears! Even the aunties were surprised. Haha. I was so proud of the boy.

After Sunday school, I praised the little boy.

ML: Zaky, you didn't cry during Sunday class!
LS: (nods in acknowledgement)
ML: Wah, you are so brave.
LS: Ya, I am a different Isaac.

Hahaha, I almost burst out laughing.  So where is the difference?

Looks the same cheeky monkey to me. Haha. I hope it is a good start to Sunday school.

By the way, I bought him new cheapo roller shoes. Lil Shauna started with those too. These cost a fraction of Heelys, but doesn't go as fast. Lil Shauna caught the technique within a day with her cheapo roller shoes. I don't remember her falling much as they wasn't that slippery. On the other hand, Lil Isaac started falling all over the moment he wore the shoes. Zzzzz.  He still couldn't roll but insisted on doing tricks the moment he saw jiejie doing so in her Heelys. Zzzzz. Different Isaac? Same lah.

Mummy Lim

School Hoildays

This June school holiday seems to fly by. We are already in the last week of holiday.  I was surprised that school is starting. Even Popo agreed that time flies. She used to dread school holiday a lot. It is seriously no joke to have kids bouncing around the whole day but she didn't complain much this time. I don't even remember about the kids going to my brother's place much during the school holidays.

I thought about it and guessed there are a few reasons. Firstly, we were away for a whole week of holidays and basically left with 3 weeks of school holidays. 2ndly, if the kids played as well (at home) as we were in Ho Chi Minh city, they basically made great play companion. Popo said that Lil Isaac loves to play with jiejie. It is usually Lil Shauna who grew bored first and ditch the whatever game. Lastly and more importantly, Lil Shauna is beginning to value school holidays and that rubbed off didi. The theory that whatever is good and valuable always disappeared quickly always apply. Haha. I just heard her complaining that school is starting soon. Ah, school holiday.  I can't remember but I bet I used to love school holidays too.

Mummy Lim

Ice Skating 14

I had thought that Lil Isaac would want to take up ice skating lessons as well and had intentionally switched Lil Shauna's lesson to the afternoon yday. The plan was to skate with the boy in the morning and then switched to the girl in the afternoon. Well, the boy had decided to learn Taekwondo instead and his class would be on Saturday afternoon.

We had thought of starting Lil Isaac on his Taekwondo class yday and have even informed the center. I had totally forgotten that I had arranged Lil Shauna's class to the afternoon too. Then, Daddy Lim was on duty until 4 pm. Zzzzzz. Popo offered to send the boy to class but he insisted for mummy and was even willing to skip his Taekwondo class simply bcos mummy cannot bring him. Win already. So, we all headed to the rink instead.

The boy was really excited, so much more than jiejie. His last visit was jiejie's bday party. On the other hand, Lil Shauna really needed the practice having missed the ice last weekend. Unfortunately, she wasn't exactly on form yday. Well, she normally isn't. Zzzz.  They were so loving for the pic, which is so rare.

Our crazy pix before heading to the ice.

It was frustrating in the rink though. Lil Shauna lacks the precision that she so needed. She had learnt some new turns since a few weeks back but we still couldnt figured out which side to turn, which foot 1st, which arm up. Haiz. Then, Lil Isaac kept fighting for attention. Bcos he had little, he started doing funny things that he deemed as tricks but basically made him even more dangerous to the other skaters and himself, like a sudden 360 turn in his own way. I am just grateful that the rink was fairly empty yday. Nevertheless, I have to say that the boy is getting really good on the ice. He barely fell today and was so fast on the ice! One of the crews who was Lil Shauna's bday party host also helped to entertain him at times.

When Lil Shauna headed to class, I was busy filming her and had to fish the boy out of the rink too. But I ended up letting him skate alone bcos he insisted and even "loaned" (without permission) somebody's penguin skating aid. Again, I am grateful that the rink was not crowded. Popo was with us and she helped to eye power the boy and shout out to me if need be.

Lil Shauna's class went fine. She learnt a new and her very 1st jump yday! Teacher Raymond also combined the Mohawk and 3-turn. At the end of the class, Teacher Raymond said that she could do most (or was it all?) of the moves but her movements are all so small (lack of precision). I cannot agree more. Haiz. She needed to push with more power. Otherwise, she wouldn't have to strength for the moves.

During practice, I had to nag and nag at her to raise that hand, a little more on that leg, etc. But she would have forgotten about all those the moment she ran off to class. Zzzz. I have signed her up for class for every Saturday in July. Hopefully, the extra time with the coach will make her better. Did yiu hear my pocket scream "ouch"? Jia you!

Mummy Lim

SAM @ 8Q

The last time we went to SAM @ 3Q was a few years back. We went with ah yee and my brother's family then.

I saw on fb that there are some exhibits for kids and headed down with the Chan family.

On the 1st floor, there was some foam blocks that are really popular with younger kids. I had to chase our kids away. They were a danger to the other kids.

The walls leading to the other levels were covered with doodle. They are super nice.

On the second floor, short clips were screening. The kids enjoyed the clips so much more than a few years back. Can you spot them in the dark?

On the third floor, we get to make some craft with strings.

On the fourth floor, some jigsaw puzzle thingy.

Then, hanging candies on tree.

The best thing of all? The entrance is free for all Singaporeans! Free and so much things to do. Totally worth it.

Mummy Lim

Like Pappy

Lil Isaac said that he wanted to be like Pappy.

Haha, a super mini and skinny version.

Mummy Lim

Ho Chi Minh Day 7 - Home Sweet Home

It was a short day. Our flight was at 12.35pm, which will mean that we had to leave for the airport at 9.45am. There basically wasn't much time to do anything after bfast. Well, we did manage to squeeze in some bathtub time while mummy did some last minute packing.

We boarded the cab at almost 10am after checking out and paying the balance. It took me awhile to check, the hotel bill came up to VND 27 million. So many zeros, have to check properly.

The kids played very well this trip and even sat together in the 30 mins taxi ride to the airport.

The plane ride went fairly well too. It would have been perfect without the turbulence. There was quite some shaking at some point and I was worried that the trays would start flying. Luckily it wasn't that bad.

Overall, the Ho Chi Minh trip turned out fairly well, our very 1st experience to a developing country where most people do not speak English. I think we are still not that ready for such trips. I had a few realisation this trip too. 1st of all, I really don't do very well when the weather is too hot. 2ndly, our kids could be well entertained if there is TV, ipad, bathtub and swimming pool, so maybe we should head to a beach resort (one with a fantastic kids' club) next. 3rd, we should have stuck to our golden rule of only 1 ah mah per trip. Well, there wasn't obvious quarrels but let's just say that they aren't and will never be the best of friends from now on. I know my mum isn't the easiest person to get along. My mil has plenty of peculiarities too. I am somewhat glad that our trip has ended. Any longer, I am worried that they would start clawing at each other.

Would I miss Ho Chi Minh? Well, it isn't as dangerous as what I had thought it would be. God blessed us and we didn't meet any snatch thief or lost any valuables. The traffic is interesting though. Accordingly to Tina (guide), it is legal to take 2 adults and 2 kids below 7 on the same bike! See the little boy squashed between 2 adults? This is a common sight and I even see kids sleeping while on the bike. Steady lah.

I am amazed at how cars and motorbikes get to the sides that they wanted at a busy X junction without traffic light. Everybody seemed to be weaving through the traffic. And the stuff that they carried on motorbikes! I have seen a man riding with one hand and the other holding a 2m long metal rod!

Once back on Singapore, I have to tell you how much I appreciate clean and sweet smelling toilets. Let's just say that in Ho Chi Minh, some of the toilets are indeed an eyeful and noseful too. Lol.

Our hectic life starts once again. I am quite confused with all the holiday week and makeup classes. Daddy Lim sent Lil Shauna for her maths class to realize that it was cancelled. Did the teacher tell me? Oh gosh, I can't remember. Haha. Too many things, I need another holiday. Hehe.

Mummy Lim

Ho Chi Minh Day 6 - Vietopia

We had intended to bring the kids to a theme park - our almost must do whenever we travel. We were still trying to decide which one. There are mixed reviews about the 2 main theme parks. However, my Vietnam colleagues advised us to skip the theme parks. They said that USS is 100x better. They recommended Vietopia instead. It is similar to Kidzania and Taipei's Baby Boss. Lil Shauna isn't a fan of Baby Boss after 2 visits but didn't reject the idea of Vietopia too much.
We woke up early for bfast and a taxi to Vietopia. It was located in District 7 and the taxi costs about VND 70k.

The tickets to Vietopia us very affordable at VND 190k (about S$13) per kid and VND 45k (about S$3.5) per adult. We were given this tag.

Vietopia!

Our 1st stop. Some lab sponsored by Yakult. They each get a free bottle of Yakult at the end of the work.

2nd job was that of a mechanic.

 3rd was a wall painter. Hard work indeed.

Next, A&E. This was quite interesting. Nut only did they get to ride the ambulance, they also attempted to revive a collapsed patient. She was declared dead bcos Lil Isaac kept saying that he can't hear her heart beat. Lol.

Then, some art studio thingy.

Ice cream making. After the ice cream was made, I was worried. I had been careful to avoid ice for the kids since I don't know what kind of water was used.

So I was glad that they were almost immediately lured to the dental clinic.

Then, milk making. They had to carry hay to feed the cows 1st before milking the cows then going to the factory to learn how milk is packaged.

After milk was coffee.

Then catwalk! Lil Shauna refused to dress up though.

After lunch, the kids made their own Pepsi. I am quite sure that what they eventually received wasn't what they made bcos I saw the staff loading real Pepsi bottles into the machine. Haha.

Then, Holick making. They received this mini drink and get to play kinnect alike game that the boy loves.

Choco pie making.

 And finally, some snacks making.

We left Vietopia at almost 4pm, when it was closing.  Lil Isaac had to miss his favorite fireman bcos it was so crowded. Lil Shauna refused to do all jobs that were crowded. She said that the local kids looked at them funny. The fireman was one of those jobs. Then, Lil Isaac refused to do any of the jobs without jiejie. Zzzz.

Overall, it was great. It was really cheap for the almost whole day fun. The place was spacious and less crowded than Baby Boss. The waiting time was so much shorter and many times none at all. There are many jobs too, some quite different from Baby Boss. The equipment and facilities are really new too. The only complaint that I have is that the staff aren't too kids friendly. I was telling Daddy Lim that Baby Boss staff were very entertaining. Oh, the $$ earned do not exchanged for anything too. We had to use real $ to buys something for the kids from the gift store to reward their hard work at the end of the day. Haha. Nevertheless, it was a great experience and the boy was so tired that he knocked out at 8ish.

Mummy Lim