2007 is history. And now we are into 2008.
During the past 365 days, a lot of things happened - good and bad.
The first few months just went by per normal.
Towards the end of May had been quite tough cos went through a minor surgery. I was admitted to hospital for about 5 days and medical leave for nearly 10 days in June.
Early Aug Yuva sat for her year end exams and PSLE papers in Oct.
The following week I took a 8-days trip to Taiwan and enjoyed very much.
Nov 21 - PSLE results released with her T-score of 207 and went to express stream of secondary education. We took a few days and finally decided her choices of secondary schools.
Dec 07 - a super busy month and expensive month. Yuva got posted to Hillgrove Seconday School. 2 important weddings + the kids need to buy uniform and books for 2008. We also had a family year end bbq on 30th Dec. My wallet is bleeding...
Well all these basically just recap. What need to be done or spent are already settled.
Let's us now look forward to a better 2008 and hope all will go on fine.
May Yuva had a good head start in her new seconday school in 2 days time.
May Ajit marched into a tough P5 year and forget about his pc game counter strike.
May all my family members, my friends, my beloved had a wonderful 2007 and a better 2008.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
Monday, December 31, 2007
Friday, December 28, 2007
Report to Secondary School
21 Dec 07 8.30 am - all P6 students report to their individual posted secondary schools.
That morning, we woke up around 7.30 and left home half an hour later.
Waited for the bus 985 about 10 mins, we took a 15 mins ride and after which 5 mins walk to reach the school.
The school looked new and definitely fresh to all the shcool kids. After a brief registeration, we proceed to the school hall. The children took the front in their respective class. Oh btw, she is in class 1E2. The parents took the seat behind in the hall.
The speech began around 9.00 by the discpline master. He gave an introduction to the school and also some guidelines to the new students. These kids will have a 3-day orientation ending with a campfire on fir, 4 Jan 2008.
Thereafter, we were dismissed and proceed to get the books and uniform.
Queue for the books was too llong, so we decide to buy the uniform first.
The kids, separated by gender, took their row for measurement so to get the correct size.
So we bought 2 sets each for the uniform and PE attire which already cost $72. Wow!
Then the school books. Before the briefing in the morning, we received a clear file including the book list. I got a shock. The textbooks alone cost nearly $200 and the compulsory stationery which is about $50.
As we have not enough money to buy the art materials and optional items, we spent $260 to buy the textbooks and stationery. Wow! Wow!
Actually prior to these, our neighbour told us that we need to prepare about $400 to $500. At first, I did not think so but now. Sigh....
Then what about those kids coming from low income families? How are they able to manage
such a high cost? It is going to be tougher when these teenagers get further to their education.
Well, life is real hard nowadays!
:(
That morning, we woke up around 7.30 and left home half an hour later.
Waited for the bus 985 about 10 mins, we took a 15 mins ride and after which 5 mins walk to reach the school.
The school looked new and definitely fresh to all the shcool kids. After a brief registeration, we proceed to the school hall. The children took the front in their respective class. Oh btw, she is in class 1E2. The parents took the seat behind in the hall.
The speech began around 9.00 by the discpline master. He gave an introduction to the school and also some guidelines to the new students. These kids will have a 3-day orientation ending with a campfire on fir, 4 Jan 2008.
Thereafter, we were dismissed and proceed to get the books and uniform.
Queue for the books was too llong, so we decide to buy the uniform first.
The kids, separated by gender, took their row for measurement so to get the correct size.
So we bought 2 sets each for the uniform and PE attire which already cost $72. Wow!
Then the school books. Before the briefing in the morning, we received a clear file including the book list. I got a shock. The textbooks alone cost nearly $200 and the compulsory stationery which is about $50.
As we have not enough money to buy the art materials and optional items, we spent $260 to buy the textbooks and stationery. Wow! Wow!
Actually prior to these, our neighbour told us that we need to prepare about $400 to $500. At first, I did not think so but now. Sigh....
Then what about those kids coming from low income families? How are they able to manage
such a high cost? It is going to be tougher when these teenagers get further to their education.
Well, life is real hard nowadays!
:(
Posting to Secondary school
19 Dec 07 - an important day for all PSLE students because this is the day these kids will know which secondary school they get posted to.
Early that morning, we try to log into internet around 10.30 am. Yuva had wanted to be enrolled into Hillgrove Secondary since the day she picked her choice.
Before the girl decide her choices, her aunt had driven her to a few schools and recky the environment. She had a good impression of Hillgrove. Luckily her results is within the school's range.
Finally the time arrived. Around 11.05 we tried logging in but due to the heavy traffic, we failed. After various trials, we gained access. And there on the screen, the words appeared.
Just like what she hoped for, she managed to get into Hillgrove.
As her cousin was away for holiday, we had checked on her behalf. She went to St. Magarets.
So I sent her mum a short message.
OK the sleepless nights are over. Now wait for another 2 days and we shall report to school.
Early that morning, we try to log into internet around 10.30 am. Yuva had wanted to be enrolled into Hillgrove Secondary since the day she picked her choice.
Before the girl decide her choices, her aunt had driven her to a few schools and recky the environment. She had a good impression of Hillgrove. Luckily her results is within the school's range.
Finally the time arrived. Around 11.05 we tried logging in but due to the heavy traffic, we failed. After various trials, we gained access. And there on the screen, the words appeared.
Just like what she hoped for, she managed to get into Hillgrove.
As her cousin was away for holiday, we had checked on her behalf. She went to St. Magarets.
So I sent her mum a short message.
OK the sleepless nights are over. Now wait for another 2 days and we shall report to school.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Working from home
During October boss had permit me to work from home as that was the PSLE exam period. So tot that I can stay in guide the girl through.
But my boss did not help me apply the access until early Oct.
When the access is approved, it had way passed the exams.
During this week of Dec 17 - 21 Dec, I intend to work from home cos of my family and also spend more time with the kids.
Boss had given me a spare labtop which I brought back last Fri. But unfortunately it does not work. I call up IT on Mon and they told me that I need to configure the labtop using office network before it is able to work.
So I brought the machine back to office and do the necessary. I tested the applications before I leave for home.
God who knows I am not able to get connected. Called up IT again thinking that maybe the pin given to me is incorrect and I request to be reset. Sad to say it still doesn't work.
With no other choice, I came into office to work.
Well, I am still going to try it out again tonight and really hope that it can work out.
If not, all efforts going through the process are drained.
Alright, wish me good luck and also to Yuva who is going to know which school she will be posted tomorrow morning.
But my boss did not help me apply the access until early Oct.
When the access is approved, it had way passed the exams.
During this week of Dec 17 - 21 Dec, I intend to work from home cos of my family and also spend more time with the kids.
Boss had given me a spare labtop which I brought back last Fri. But unfortunately it does not work. I call up IT on Mon and they told me that I need to configure the labtop using office network before it is able to work.
So I brought the machine back to office and do the necessary. I tested the applications before I leave for home.
God who knows I am not able to get connected. Called up IT again thinking that maybe the pin given to me is incorrect and I request to be reset. Sad to say it still doesn't work.
With no other choice, I came into office to work.
Well, I am still going to try it out again tonight and really hope that it can work out.
If not, all efforts going through the process are drained.
Alright, wish me good luck and also to Yuva who is going to know which school she will be posted tomorrow morning.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Why so busy...
I always wonder why am I so busy? I am no celebrity, movie star nor businessperson. Everyday busy with 2 jobs, run errands, attending functions etc... just kept me fully occupied. All my weekends are nearly full.
Last Fri, I took a day off to buy X'mas exchange gift for office and our small group.
Saturday our family attended our niece's 21st birthday party.
Sunday a friend's birthday celebration dinner.
That is not all yet. More to come...
13 Dec - office colleague cum christmas celebration
14 Dec - relative wedding
19 Dec - Secondary school posting
21 Dec - report to Yuva's to be secondary school + another relative wedding
22 Dec - watching a stage drama + small group christmas gathering
30 Dec - family new year count down cum bbq party
Wow, so many programmes lining up. Maybe must take more essence of chicken for more energy.
Last Fri, I took a day off to buy X'mas exchange gift for office and our small group.
Saturday our family attended our niece's 21st birthday party.
Sunday a friend's birthday celebration dinner.
That is not all yet. More to come...
13 Dec - office colleague cum christmas celebration
14 Dec - relative wedding
19 Dec - Secondary school posting
21 Dec - report to Yuva's to be secondary school + another relative wedding
22 Dec - watching a stage drama + small group christmas gathering
30 Dec - family new year count down cum bbq party
Wow, so many programmes lining up. Maybe must take more essence of chicken for more energy.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Sunday, November 25, 2007
PSLE results
22nd Nov - an important day for all 2007 PSLE students as this is the day results are released to them. Our familly has 2 girls, Yuvarani and Ashvini.
That morning after the morning job, I rush to bring my father to Clementi Polyclinic. Yuva sns me and tell me she is leaving with her father to the school at 11.00 to collect the results. What a surprise!
As for me, still waiting for our turn to see the doctor. Finally at 11.40 our turn comes. Afte the review and collect medication for him, it had by pass noon time. I tried calling the girl but she did not pick up the phone. So I tried her daddy. He told me her results was 207 with 2 As and 2 Cs and elegible for express course.
Then received a sms from my sister in law telling her daughter's results were 198 with the same 2 As and 2 Cs.
Back home, we were called to start off our discussion what schools to choose for the girls. It kicked off at around 3.00 pm. As Ashvini is elegible for both Normal Academic and Express. The girls would like to be in the same school, that made our selection for the schools tougher.
After much discussions, we each has a list of 6 schools and brought us to 7.00 in the evening.
Next day, there were changes in the choices with the seeking from our secondary school teacher staying next door. Ah pa went through the list and produce a fresh list - some deleted and a couple additions.
Tanks god the submission grace period is 7 days. If it drags on, guess there be more changes.
Currently our stand is Bukit Batok Secondary school although her score has a wide spread from the cut off. Her second choice is Hillgrove which she wanted to get in.
So let's hope she able to enrol into one of her likes.
That morning after the morning job, I rush to bring my father to Clementi Polyclinic. Yuva sns me and tell me she is leaving with her father to the school at 11.00 to collect the results. What a surprise!
As for me, still waiting for our turn to see the doctor. Finally at 11.40 our turn comes. Afte the review and collect medication for him, it had by pass noon time. I tried calling the girl but she did not pick up the phone. So I tried her daddy. He told me her results was 207 with 2 As and 2 Cs and elegible for express course.
Then received a sms from my sister in law telling her daughter's results were 198 with the same 2 As and 2 Cs.
Back home, we were called to start off our discussion what schools to choose for the girls. It kicked off at around 3.00 pm. As Ashvini is elegible for both Normal Academic and Express. The girls would like to be in the same school, that made our selection for the schools tougher.
After much discussions, we each has a list of 6 schools and brought us to 7.00 in the evening.
Next day, there were changes in the choices with the seeking from our secondary school teacher staying next door. Ah pa went through the list and produce a fresh list - some deleted and a couple additions.
Tanks god the submission grace period is 7 days. If it drags on, guess there be more changes.
Currently our stand is Bukit Batok Secondary school although her score has a wide spread from the cut off. Her second choice is Hillgrove which she wanted to get in.
So let's hope she able to enrol into one of her likes.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
A frustrating day
This morning brought father to Polyclinic to get his blood and urine tested.
Prior to the test, he needs to collect an overnight urine for 24 hours. Due to the 'new' doctor did not tell us previously about the collection, we need this extra trip today.
Things seemed to get screwed up and I started throwing my temper at the clinic.
After the tests, brought father to his usual hangout - Toa Payoh. He has a friend that owns a photo studio and he will leisurely spent his time there.
Sending him over there brings the time to 12.30. I then rushed home on the public bus. Concidently met Yuva on board the same bus when it arrived at her school.
Time seemed to be running short. Took a quick bath and lunch within the 30 minutes time. The girl comes to me saying run out of shampoo.
Once again the third time of the day, I blew my top. Why must they come to me when the stuff are run out. Do spare me some time to get these things as not everything are accesible within the compound and time.
Well, that is still not the end of today's story.
At the bus stop while waiting for bus, met my sister in law saying that the eldest sister-in-law is inviting us over to her place this sunday for a Deepavali meal.
I am not aware of it at all. Nobody is telling me about it.
Ghosh.... it upsets some of the plans that I have on that day.
Ai yo so many things at the same time on the same day!!!
The only solution - work and forget all these stuff.
Maybe shall finish off and go to bed early then.
Prior to the test, he needs to collect an overnight urine for 24 hours. Due to the 'new' doctor did not tell us previously about the collection, we need this extra trip today.
Things seemed to get screwed up and I started throwing my temper at the clinic.
After the tests, brought father to his usual hangout - Toa Payoh. He has a friend that owns a photo studio and he will leisurely spent his time there.
Sending him over there brings the time to 12.30. I then rushed home on the public bus. Concidently met Yuva on board the same bus when it arrived at her school.
Time seemed to be running short. Took a quick bath and lunch within the 30 minutes time. The girl comes to me saying run out of shampoo.
Once again the third time of the day, I blew my top. Why must they come to me when the stuff are run out. Do spare me some time to get these things as not everything are accesible within the compound and time.
Well, that is still not the end of today's story.
At the bus stop while waiting for bus, met my sister in law saying that the eldest sister-in-law is inviting us over to her place this sunday for a Deepavali meal.
I am not aware of it at all. Nobody is telling me about it.
Ghosh.... it upsets some of the plans that I have on that day.
Ai yo so many things at the same time on the same day!!!
The only solution - work and forget all these stuff.
Maybe shall finish off and go to bed early then.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Memories
Since the last post about the Taiwan trip, I had been busy at work and no time to write any entry.
I have not complete the selection of photos taken at Taiwan and sent for developing.
3 of us actually took 1,000 plus pictures and it is so difficult to make a selection from the batch.
Currently, there are about 300 over photos which had been chosen but might need to go for further filtering.
The initial choice to make a photobook was dropped as it became costly for so many photos. Besides, as a habit, me and my sisiter always like to put in the air tickets, any information brochers, room keys etc... into the album in which the photobook will not be able to do so.
Memories emerge each time we flip through the album.
My cousin, on the other hand, thinks that by keeping the digital photos on cd or stored in pc will be sufficient. Anytime that you wish to see the photos, just turn on the pc.
Well, maybe that is the different thinking gap between the 2 generations of 20 years apart.
But we still have a good time during the 8 days stay together.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Taiwan trip 13/10 - 20/10
Last month we are still counting down to our Taiwan trip. Now we are looking back to our memorable trip 0f 8 days. It had been a wonderful one since my last visit 20 years back.
Lots of things have changed. In fact, besides Joey and Jane, whom are their first vist to Taiwan, I felt the same too. Almost all the sightseeing spots are new to me like 101 shopping mall in Taipei, dream mall with the Hello Kitty ferris wheel at Kaoshiung, the cultural village with the adventurous rides etc...
Even to those refreshing spots still look new to me Tai Ru Ge national park is one of them. Nice falls, rivers, mountains. Too bad due to the tyohoon a week earlier, Yan-Zi gou had been restricted for entrance. The other 2 ladies felt very disappointed as it is a nice and beautiful place but they did not managed to get a glimpse the beauty.
On the whole trip, we main transport is the bus coach. Besides, we have a train trip to Hua Lien and bullet train to Tai Tung from Kao shiung. Our longest journey was 3 hours and the shortest being 30 minutes. How BIGGGGG.... Taiwan is.
Lots of things have changed. In fact, besides Joey and Jane, whom are their first vist to Taiwan, I felt the same too. Almost all the sightseeing spots are new to me like 101 shopping mall in Taipei, dream mall with the Hello Kitty ferris wheel at Kaoshiung, the cultural village with the adventurous rides etc...
Even to those refreshing spots still look new to me Tai Ru Ge national park is one of them. Nice falls, rivers, mountains. Too bad due to the tyohoon a week earlier, Yan-Zi gou had been restricted for entrance. The other 2 ladies felt very disappointed as it is a nice and beautiful place but they did not managed to get a glimpse the beauty.
On the whole trip, we main transport is the bus coach. Besides, we have a train trip to Hua Lien and bullet train to Tai Tung from Kao shiung. Our longest journey was 3 hours and the shortest being 30 minutes. How BIGGGGG.... Taiwan is.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Busy busy busy
Wow, it had been a solid 3 weeks that I have not been able to post my blog.
Well, very busy lately just like anyone else especially this week.
Mon - went for my blood test.
Tues - attend a full day course.
Thurs - doctor's appt at hosp
Fri - half day course
Sat - going for AMK Hub opening ceremony
Sun - swimming
Oh god! Fully packed and no rest not to mention I need to catch up the viewing ER before the deadline which is end of the month.
We are counting down the days for our trip to Taiwan probably another 22 days.
And next week we need to make full payment for the tour. After which some shopping got to be done.
Well, hope can take a slower pace the next couple of weeks.
Good luck to me.
Well, very busy lately just like anyone else especially this week.
Mon - went for my blood test.
Tues - attend a full day course.
Thurs - doctor's appt at hosp
Fri - half day course
Sat - going for AMK Hub opening ceremony
Sun - swimming
Oh god! Fully packed and no rest not to mention I need to catch up the viewing ER before the deadline which is end of the month.
We are counting down the days for our trip to Taiwan probably another 22 days.
And next week we need to make full payment for the tour. After which some shopping got to be done.
Well, hope can take a slower pace the next couple of weeks.
Good luck to me.
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Birthday
Yesterday, 31st August was my birthday. Besides this day was shared with Tzu Yin and her son Shaqil, Chen Hooang - a famous celebrity in Taiwan. It happened that me Chen were borned in the same year but me just elder to him by hours.
I took a day off from work cos Joey, Jane and Raymond is spending the evening with me.
Laze around during the afternoon, the children together with their aunties upstairs caught me by surprise. They bought me a simple mango cake. My present - a simple artpaper but with the wishes from the family members plus Mrs Tay and Owen.
After a short hour with them, the gathering disperse as Yuva needs to go for her tuition guided by my eldest sister in-law.
Around 6 in the evening, we leave and head for Chinatown. Hopped onto 174, the bus journey went smooth till it reached Tanglin. The traffice became heavy and took us nearly 20 minutes to get out of Orchard road.
Finally after an hour, we reach Chinatown. Not Sure where we suppose to meet, we hung around the area waiting for the phone call.
Eventually, we decided to have our dinner at one of the steamboat restaurant. At a buffet price of $15.80, 5 of us sat down in their private room to start filling our tummies while waiting for Joey.
The food is nice, but just too bad air con is not cold enough. After a satisfied asumptuous meal, we took a short walk to the KTV - 10 Dollars Family Club which is a few streets away.
We got a very small room occupying 6 of us. The drinks was 10++ free flow. Unexpectedly, we were served a bowl of shark fins too inclusively. That was cheap and no wonder it was already fully booked by Tuesday. Yuva sang a few songs and Ajit slept soundly in between.
Oh drama started before the countdown to Teachers' day. They bought an ice-cream cake from Swensens. Guess what design they get for me? God! A chicken little cartoon for a 42 year-old lady.
Spelt out my 2 wshes for the birthday - to settle my debts earlier and be healthier, I kept the last in my heart. They play the birthday song, cut the cake, served the cake with Ray creating a good atmosphere.
The singing session ended shortly after 1 am. We then leave for home driven by Ray.
I have a wonderful birthday. Hope all my wishes do come true...
I took a day off from work cos Joey, Jane and Raymond is spending the evening with me.
Laze around during the afternoon, the children together with their aunties upstairs caught me by surprise. They bought me a simple mango cake. My present - a simple artpaper but with the wishes from the family members plus Mrs Tay and Owen.
After a short hour with them, the gathering disperse as Yuva needs to go for her tuition guided by my eldest sister in-law.
Around 6 in the evening, we leave and head for Chinatown. Hopped onto 174, the bus journey went smooth till it reached Tanglin. The traffice became heavy and took us nearly 20 minutes to get out of Orchard road.
Finally after an hour, we reach Chinatown. Not Sure where we suppose to meet, we hung around the area waiting for the phone call.
Eventually, we decided to have our dinner at one of the steamboat restaurant. At a buffet price of $15.80, 5 of us sat down in their private room to start filling our tummies while waiting for Joey.
The food is nice, but just too bad air con is not cold enough. After a satisfied asumptuous meal, we took a short walk to the KTV - 10 Dollars Family Club which is a few streets away.
We got a very small room occupying 6 of us. The drinks was 10++ free flow. Unexpectedly, we were served a bowl of shark fins too inclusively. That was cheap and no wonder it was already fully booked by Tuesday. Yuva sang a few songs and Ajit slept soundly in between.
Oh drama started before the countdown to Teachers' day. They bought an ice-cream cake from Swensens. Guess what design they get for me? God! A chicken little cartoon for a 42 year-old lady.
Spelt out my 2 wshes for the birthday - to settle my debts earlier and be healthier, I kept the last in my heart. They play the birthday song, cut the cake, served the cake with Ray creating a good atmosphere.
The singing session ended shortly after 1 am. We then leave for home driven by Ray.
I have a wonderful birthday. Hope all my wishes do come true...
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Taiwan Taiwan Taiwan...
Remember the Taiwan trip I spoke about few days ago? We are going to realise it... :)
Out with the 2 travel partners at noon, we went to CTC travel fair when Jane had went to the other 2 - ASA and Dynasty much earlier to check out if there are any favourable packages for us.
Afterwhich we sat down for our lunch meal at Marina Square food court, going into details of our checkouts. From the various itineraries picked up, we tried to get the best among all.
Wow, so difficult to choose.
CTC offers an attractive deal for 8 days - $818, ASA had it @ $1048 and Dynasty does not have the date we need to set off.
After a hour's lunch, Mr Poh drove us out to Chan Brothers located at People's Park Centre so that we check out some other agencies so to get the best.
Chan has a package going for $968 by an unfriendly staff - Gina.
We then proceed to SA tours nearby building going for $1,068 entertained by a probably quiet and shy lady. She basically just quotes the prices and did not even proceed into details with us.
Then, we took a table at the nearest children favourite spot, McDonalds, to continue our discussion.
The initial plan was a 7-day packaged tour. But later we seemed to concentrate on the 8Days instead. Probably have a bit more breathing space in between.
Going through all the itineraries over and over, weighing the sightseeing spots (missed or not to), talk about the routes they taking, prices at any point an important one to be considered.
But thanks god, we have not much of disagreement during the whole discussion. So scared someone will flip the table (just joking). Somehow we came to an agreement to take the ASA 8day Best of Taiwan package. Basically it covers most of the spots that we wanted but just at a more expensive price - $1,148 flying SQ.
Then, we took a turn back to Suntec, where the fair is held. Though decided what we have wanted, the hesitate hung on the staff attending to us. Managed to get a $25 discount each after much persuasion, Jane finally signed for a deposit of $1,500.
Dinner was the break off for the day. We have it at Food Republic at Suntec City Convention Hall. We packed our tummies with different choices, watched a little of the fireworks, talking about the coming trip.... and left the place nearly 11 pm.
Well had been a long day walking, talking, brainstorming but glad we will have a good trip this Oct. On the other hand, time to constraint our pocket money. Ought to meet less, eat less, spend less and save more. Oh! My poor kids! But just once in every N years.
Out with the 2 travel partners at noon, we went to CTC travel fair when Jane had went to the other 2 - ASA and Dynasty much earlier to check out if there are any favourable packages for us.
Afterwhich we sat down for our lunch meal at Marina Square food court, going into details of our checkouts. From the various itineraries picked up, we tried to get the best among all.
Wow, so difficult to choose.
CTC offers an attractive deal for 8 days - $818, ASA had it @ $1048 and Dynasty does not have the date we need to set off.
After a hour's lunch, Mr Poh drove us out to Chan Brothers located at People's Park Centre so that we check out some other agencies so to get the best.
Chan has a package going for $968 by an unfriendly staff - Gina.
We then proceed to SA tours nearby building going for $1,068 entertained by a probably quiet and shy lady. She basically just quotes the prices and did not even proceed into details with us.
Then, we took a table at the nearest children favourite spot, McDonalds, to continue our discussion.
The initial plan was a 7-day packaged tour. But later we seemed to concentrate on the 8Days instead. Probably have a bit more breathing space in between.
Going through all the itineraries over and over, weighing the sightseeing spots (missed or not to), talk about the routes they taking, prices at any point an important one to be considered.
But thanks god, we have not much of disagreement during the whole discussion. So scared someone will flip the table (just joking). Somehow we came to an agreement to take the ASA 8day Best of Taiwan package. Basically it covers most of the spots that we wanted but just at a more expensive price - $1,148 flying SQ.
Then, we took a turn back to Suntec, where the fair is held. Though decided what we have wanted, the hesitate hung on the staff attending to us. Managed to get a $25 discount each after much persuasion, Jane finally signed for a deposit of $1,500.
Dinner was the break off for the day. We have it at Food Republic at Suntec City Convention Hall. We packed our tummies with different choices, watched a little of the fireworks, talking about the coming trip.... and left the place nearly 11 pm.
Well had been a long day walking, talking, brainstorming but glad we will have a good trip this Oct. On the other hand, time to constraint our pocket money. Ought to meet less, eat less, spend less and save more. Oh! My poor kids! But just once in every N years.
Friday, August 17, 2007
PSLE Oral
Yesterday and today are the P6 pupils taking their PSLE oral for both languages.
Yuva is one of them.
She took English yesterday and Chinese this morning.
Last morning she made the examiner laughed alot and today the teacher was impressed by her speech.
Well hope she will get good results for it although it forms only a small portion of the main paper.
Nice try my dear girl.
Next week are her school prelim papers. The girl is busy now revising her work.
Not to pressure her, I shall leave it to her planning her own study schedule.
Yuva, may you work hard and try to achieve good results...
Yuva is one of them.
She took English yesterday and Chinese this morning.
Last morning she made the examiner laughed alot and today the teacher was impressed by her speech.
Well hope she will get good results for it although it forms only a small portion of the main paper.
Nice try my dear girl.
Next week are her school prelim papers. The girl is busy now revising her work.
Not to pressure her, I shall leave it to her planning her own study schedule.
Yuva, may you work hard and try to achieve good results...
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Model pupil
Yesterday Ajit came home happily with a little card in hand.
He was selected the model pupil of the class.
Not sure why he was selected. The possible guess could be he likes to help his peers.
That brings me back to his younger days probably K2.
Once his teacher called up to check on certain things.
The teacher mentioned he is a very helpful boy in class.
One of the boys in his class had some walking difficulty and Ajit is always there to help him.
Glad he still maintains such good conduct when he goes to primary school.
Hope this kind soul stay with him.
Good work Ajit and keep it up.
He was selected the model pupil of the class.
Not sure why he was selected. The possible guess could be he likes to help his peers.
That brings me back to his younger days probably K2.
Once his teacher called up to check on certain things.
The teacher mentioned he is a very helpful boy in class.
One of the boys in his class had some walking difficulty and Ajit is always there to help him.
Glad he still maintains such good conduct when he goes to primary school.
Hope this kind soul stay with him.
Good work Ajit and keep it up.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Taiwan trip
These few days we were busy discussing about our trip to Taiwan.
It had been 20 years since the last time I visited this Chinese-orientated country.
That was my first country that I travelled to since I started work. Remembered it was Aug 87 that me, a secondary classmate and her sister and took on a 12-day packaged tour to Hong Kong and Taiwan.
We have a wonderful trip and enjoyed it except for the long road journey in Taiwan. As we were round the island in 8 days, it became very exhaustic for the need to carry our luggage to transfer hotel every night. So during the 8 days, we put up in 7 hotels. Vow...
Now it's time to revisit the country and believe there are great changes after 2 decades. An old colleague from Man Taiwan, Jeda Weng, had been asking me to visit her since 2003. Finally this is going to realise soon. She is so excited when I told her so.
We have planned the trip in mid Oct where the 2 kids will be at home due to PSLE marking week. So bad to throw them at home and enjoy myself away. Well, at times need to give our ownself a break before we going bersek.
Tonight will be meeting Joey, our cousin and maybe Jane for further discussion. Jane had no intention to join us in the beginning but just so tempted when we both were talking about it when we meet.
Hope we can work out a good itinerary and proceed to make the necessary plans.
Oh no... already so anxious to go and no heart to concentrate on work.
It had been 20 years since the last time I visited this Chinese-orientated country.
That was my first country that I travelled to since I started work. Remembered it was Aug 87 that me, a secondary classmate and her sister and took on a 12-day packaged tour to Hong Kong and Taiwan.
We have a wonderful trip and enjoyed it except for the long road journey in Taiwan. As we were round the island in 8 days, it became very exhaustic for the need to carry our luggage to transfer hotel every night. So during the 8 days, we put up in 7 hotels. Vow...
Now it's time to revisit the country and believe there are great changes after 2 decades. An old colleague from Man Taiwan, Jeda Weng, had been asking me to visit her since 2003. Finally this is going to realise soon. She is so excited when I told her so.
We have planned the trip in mid Oct where the 2 kids will be at home due to PSLE marking week. So bad to throw them at home and enjoy myself away. Well, at times need to give our ownself a break before we going bersek.
Tonight will be meeting Joey, our cousin and maybe Jane for further discussion. Jane had no intention to join us in the beginning but just so tempted when we both were talking about it when we meet.
Hope we can work out a good itinerary and proceed to make the necessary plans.
Oh no... already so anxious to go and no heart to concentrate on work.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Sunday...
It is now into the morning of Monday and I am still in front of the pc posting my feelings onto the blog.
Guess lots of people share the same feeling as I do when Sunday comes to an end. It marks the beginning of the week and so is our work.
Probably going to drag our feet to work, hope that today is just Sat and we can enjoy 2 more days!
Wake up flying fish! Get into bed and prepare for another round of struggles in the coming week.
Though I am moving to another role soon but there is no sign of eagerness. Maybe the thought of still working with the same boss anchored my heart down.
Well, hope the switch possibly could be a better one. Just wait for the day to comeby next month or the after.
Guess lots of people share the same feeling as I do when Sunday comes to an end. It marks the beginning of the week and so is our work.
Probably going to drag our feet to work, hope that today is just Sat and we can enjoy 2 more days!
Wake up flying fish! Get into bed and prepare for another round of struggles in the coming week.
Though I am moving to another role soon but there is no sign of eagerness. Maybe the thought of still working with the same boss anchored my heart down.
Well, hope the switch possibly could be a better one. Just wait for the day to comeby next month or the after.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Short break at Kelong - Day 2
Date: 11th Aug 07
Venue: Hotboys Kelong
Day 2
Woke up at 7.30 in the morning. Most of our members are already up. After a fresh up, the boys carry on with the fishing. Next came the bell for breakfast which is our second last at the kelong. Simple chicken congee for the start of the day. Those who dislike it like Joey can have another choice - buscuits.
After breakfast, with a cup of coffee, we hang around at the platform while Raymond and Ajit still trying on their last catch. Ajit had managed to get another 3 on his record.
Then it's time to do packing up while other some visit the toilets for bathing.
Lunch was served about 12 noon. This fifth meal was a good one. We have a big groupa cooked very saucy way, then sweet and sour fish, fried egg, vegetable, and never the missing item soup.
The boat that is picking us up back to the jetty arrived when we were halfyway our meal.
We hurriedly finished up our lunch and get onboard the boat. That was a bigger boat compared to the one that we arrived with. The boat left the kelong and we have our last glance and waved goodbye. Gradually it went out of our sight. In between, the engine was stopped and we were in the middle of the sea. But restarted after 5 to 10 mins. Next followed a heavy downpour. Around an hour later, we are back to Tanjung Lenman jetty.
The same coach - MAJ 2008 was there to pick us up. Just like the journey when we were heading, the returned trip was another napping one. Arrived at Malaysia customs around 4.00 pm, we pressed ourselves through the crowded queues and had a little hiccup at the Singapore Woodlands customs.
Finally we are on the way back to Hillside View, served with some drinks and titbits by Mr and Mrs Ang. Then we took a 10-mins ride back to our home sweet home driven by Raymond.
On the whole, we have a nice and enjoyable trip. Probably a break off from the heavy work load and stress for the work or school.
Hope we can plan for another different trip elsewhere in future.
Short break to Kelong - Day 1
Date: 10th Aug 07
Time: 7 am
Venue: Hotboys kelong
DAY 1
A group of us, 8 adults with 2 children, set off to the Hotboys Kelong located after Kota Tinggi but before Mersing.
We set off about 7 am from the pick up point - Sebestian's house. Hopped onto a 12-seater coatch, we have no problems for the clearance at both checkpoints. From there, it was a 2 hour sleeping trip to Tanjung Lenman Jetty before the transfer to the boat with other groups heading same destination.
From the info on the website, it was a 25 minutes boat ride and the kelong is situated in the middle of Sibu Sea.
Though a bit rough on the journey, we have fun. The breeze is good, and the sun not too hot. Is just a endless horizon. And finally we reached the kelong around 11.25.
Expected no nice lobby nor nice rooms, we see groups of people whom are there the day before packing to leave.
Changed into causual t-shirts and shorts, we took an orientation round the kelong, the fishing platform just around the kelong, a Karaoke corner with very simple (a bit torn) sofa set and the computerised karaoke set.
Centre of the kelong is a tv for general viewing. There is also about a block of 20 lockers for safe-keeping our important items.
Double-deck bunk beds on 3 sides of the kelong. Sometimes wonder did they actually changed the bedsheets when the former guests leave their beds.
Next our very concern - the toilets. A row of about 7 rooms, each has a barrel for the bathing water, a squatting toilet bowl in th centre. From the hole, you can see fishes swmming underneath in the sea. Oh my god! How to do our business? Just imagine... Outisde all these rooms are barrels and barrels of bathing water which is free flow.
There is left one corner of the kelong for the kitchen where the food is being prepared and the enquires counter to register whatever you need on board.
Around noon time, the bell rings for lunch. We took a whole table as the group makes up the nice number for 1. Our first meal of the 5 that was provided, we have a fish cooked with sauce, steamed prawns, fried chicken and vegetable and a simple ABC soup. Though not as fresh we expected, the food tasted good.
After lunch, our Big Man - Raymond Poh, got into work and started plans for the day. He 'chopped' 2 majong sets and 2 karaoke hours for the night, get a locker for our stuff, get the fishing rods for the main activity.
With the rods, the men including my young boy Ajit, started fishing together with our tweety Joey. The bunch of beauties - me, Jane, Yuvarani, Chris took on a dreaming tour but got shaken up cause our loud speaker caught a big fish. Ajit, being his first time at fishing, caught 6 fishes. Well done boy!
In the initenary, we have an acitivity of island hopping. Tot we might be going for a few islands but actually just one. The boat left around 3 pm and we hopped onto the island about 10 mins later. We walked along a stretched of wooded planks hanging from the simple jetty to the beach.
At the beach, the children enjoyed the sand and water. Some of them were floating along with the waves, there are other groups playing beach volleyball our cousin, Joey, trying to catch flashes of her big face and beautiful sourroundings onto her newly bought camera.
Having spent about 1 and half hours at the beach, we walked back to the jetty and catch the 5 o'clock boat back to kelong and do some cleaning and wash ups.
6 pm Meal # 2 - Dinner
2 steamed fishes, tou-fu, vegetable, fried stongs and of course soup.
After a short rest, we start off our night activity. The kids played the majong their own style. The adults took on the singing corner and start to share our voices with the crowd cos' it an open area. The elderly couple (Raymond's parents) took the lead with their evergreen and favourite songs. I hopped in and out and co-sing a couple of my familiar songs. Back to my bunk corner, I just started my Suduko puzzles or join a short while at the tv viewing.
We have a group of people having BBQ outside the windy platform with the nice food under our nostrils. Another group is celebrating birhtday at another corner of the kelong.
The singing session was extended an extra hour to 11 pm. In between around 10.30 there comes our third meal - simple supper as mentioned. Fried mee and kuay teow with green bean soup feels the cooling night with warmth.
After supper and karaoke, the 1st majong session started with the make up of the elders, Chris, their daughter and our Ms Chan.
The children dispersed from the table and went to do their night catching hoping to se if any fishes hopped onto their fishing hooks.
We - Raymond and his wife Jane (my younger sis), myself and Chu Bee (Sebastian) took over the majong table and started to earn some pocket money.
After 2 rounds - East and South Winds, we put a stop to the game about 2.30 am as Ray is too tired. I am lucky to wrap up the night winning about RM 50.
Sweet dream Jenny...
Why blog?
What is blog?
I only come across about a year or two ago.
Blog is a place you can post anything - your feelings being happy, sad, anger or sorrows.
It can be a place for communication too for your surrounding frens when we cannot meet up often.
I do log in to some blogs and read them eg the 972 DJs, some celebraties etc... I had wanted to start a blog way back but just do not have the time to maintain it. But now maybe I should just keep up the good habit. Probably is a good way to release your stress or pressure.
Ok from now on let's blog it!
I only come across about a year or two ago.
Blog is a place you can post anything - your feelings being happy, sad, anger or sorrows.
It can be a place for communication too for your surrounding frens when we cannot meet up often.
I do log in to some blogs and read them eg the 972 DJs, some celebraties etc... I had wanted to start a blog way back but just do not have the time to maintain it. But now maybe I should just keep up the good habit. Probably is a good way to release your stress or pressure.
Ok from now on let's blog it!
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