KC's World

Brothers

2011-12-09T17:48:00.003+11:00

Family and friends reckon YS and BS looks more alike... What do you think?

Our Baby is here !

2011-12-07T20:51:00.003+11:00

Joy Joy... finally my baby is here. To share the joy, here is the simple little story of how baby meet us.

I have scheduled with doctor on the 2nd of Dec 2011 afternoon 2pm to have c-sec and deliver my baby. I had early light breakfast of oat and chocolate drink, Shao Wen accompany me admitted to hospital and waited in the ward. To pass time, we just chit chat and Siew was there with us. It was around 1pm I started to feel the cramp (menstrual pain) on my tummy. We informed the nurse and she said since I am going to deliver the baby c-sec, it is alright.

I am not sure if I consider lucky or unfortunate, the OT was so busy that day. A few abnormal cases, and emergency has occupied the OT for longer hours. I waited until 4pm still my turn was not there. The cramp pain was getting stronger, Dr managed to borrow the cardiac OT for my surgery. So it was my first time to enter the cardiac OT. Newer than the usual OT from what I can remember during Cheng Shuan time. The clock is bigger this time, with out my spectacles I can still read the time. Baby was born an hour shortly after the c-sec start and after my recovery session only I was send to the maternity ward, by then it was already 7.20pm.

This is our youngest son. We still working on his name. More updates will come.

JJ Cakes

2011-11-17T03:07:00.002+11:00

Ever since Auntie Jennifer started her JJ Cakes years ago, we have been enjoying wonderful taste yet healthy and fresh bake cakes every now and then. We used to have the rolls from JJ, recently my family start to love their celebration cakes. They have a couple of famous flavor made on daily basis for customer convenient. We passed by today, dad stopped and bought me this BLACK FOREST, one of my favorite. This JJ has become the never missed Ipoh must buy for visitor to Ipoh. Buses and coaches stopped by, magazines, online media published about it. I am proud to be Ipoh-rian that my auntie has made this cakes a success ...

Back in Ipoh...

2011-11-14T19:54:00.002+11:00

Finally, the long waited due date is just around the corner. Doctor told me my baby is going to due on the 9th December this year. Since this is third pregnancy and after 2 c-sec, I have no choice but to go for another c-sec. I will have it done 1-2 weeks earlier. So, I picked 24th November, Thursday. Wish me GOOD LUCK.

Recalled Yong Shuan's time, we packed everything ready and washed all the baby's clothing, get ready the nursery; I guess this happens to most first time parents. Cannot wait to see their first newborn. This time, I am so tiring taking care of 2 toddlers and left all the packing and "get-ready" to the last minutes. Only last week I brought the baby clothing out from the store and ask mum to help to do the laundry. Only this morning I went to buy the newborn nappy and some other baby stuff; in fact still a long list to fulfill but no energy to shop. Only few days back I phoned to the confinement food catering service to reconfirm my booking with them. My baby cot is ready, my room has not. It is still a part guest room, part store room, part nursery and part laundry room.

What happened to me? I am in my comfort zone, expecting the expected c-sec and care of baby? Or just because I am lazy and tired. Both.

I tried to go for natural birth when I was having Cheng Shuan - my 2nd boy. Totally new experience if it did happens but it didn't, c-sec at the end. This is 3rd c-sec so I know what is coming. Still I wish it to be as smooth and manageable as possible. Wish the pain to the least, wish baby is always contended as possible, easy to take care. Wish for the breastfeeding to be as successful as the previous two times. POSITIVE POSITIVE.

I will have Cheng Shuan accompany me along this confinement period, Yong Shuan will be following daddy at SP and visit once a week. I will be staying with parents, mum is going to care for Cheng Shuan and bath my "xiao mian tu" - 小綿兔 for me. We called him this name since some time ago. This was given by Yong Shuan KoKo, saying the 綿羊 sheep, which is me giving birth to the rabbit baby.

When 小綿兔 is here, more updates is coming to this blog.

CS 's version of cartoon

2011-11-03T16:47:00.003+11:00

Cheng Shuan pointed to his brother's mickey mouse and yelled, " Meemee Mouse"

So ,

Meemee Mouse = Mickey Mouse

Abee Bird = Angry Bird

Cheng Shuan Calling PaPa!

2011-06-06T11:39:00.001+10:00

After months of dada, tata, and all others babble sound, he called "Papa" repeatly this morning when he wants Daddy to carry him from his car seat.

Singapore Trip 2011 Part 2

2011-03-25T19:01:00.006+11:00

Day 2 - Marina Barrage, Kite Flying --Singapore Flyer

Eyes opener outing for us to this Marina Barrage, we've learnt a lot.

Roof floor is the man made grass field for kite flying, we all enjoyed it very much . Strong wind, just once we put the kite in place, it just flew up high.

We continue the day to Singapore Flyer.

Day 4 - Sentosa Island - Ocenarium -- Resort World

-- Vivo City Shopping -- Swimming at Sis Apartment

Singapore Trip 2011 Part 1

2011-03-25T16:21:00.006+11:00

This trip to Singapore is another family vacation trip, since we last went to Siam Reap in 2009 February. Been talking alot of places to visit for quite sometimes, I guess the saying is right, when you try to plan, nothing works out; if you are not, it will surprise that it turned out to be an amazing experience. This applies perfectly to our Singapore Trip. It was kind of a last minutes thing, when dad mentioned he needs to turn up for a wedding banquet, he asked if I could book the transport for him, Eventually, I managed to book for the whole family instead of just the two of them.

Here are some of the pictures..

At the Subang's Terminal

This luggage mainly carries CS's nappy, YS enjoyed pulling it all around.

Day 01 - Singapore Zoo

more photos to continue...

My Birthday Gift 2010 - iPhone 4

2010-12-20T19:31:00.004+11:00

A big hug to my caring and lovely hubby, I got surprise with an iPhone 4 this year for my birthday. There was this story to tell along with this iPhone4 birthday gift; hubby tried to contact Maxis and other Apple store to try to get me one iPhone4 without me knowing.

However, he mistakenly thought I have to go in-person to have the registration done for my new phone. In actual fact, the phone number is a sub-line under the same holder - which is him. So there is no need for me to be there. When the day comes, he brought me to the front of Maxis Ipoh office, I wondered and asked why were we there? Aren't we supposed to go to this supplier at the other site of the town? He then only tell me yes we are here to get your new iPhone4. In deep of my heart, I am surprised and happy.

When the registration was on going, our friend asked the officer why she never ask for my ID or signature, only then he realized the whole thing can be done without me, and how he wish to "really" surprise me with my SIM card changed into the new phone n put it in a box.

Anyway, end of the whole thing, I AM HAPPY WITH MY 2010 BIRTHDAY GIFT and EVERYTHING ELSE. BLESSED BIRTHDAY WITH MY SOUL PARTNER AND 2 SONS.

My first answer to Shao Wen was, " Thank you daddy " on behalf of Yong Shuan. I know he will be more happier than myself to know mummy have iPhone and all the apps he can try on.

And I started to explore the phone, this is what I found last week. The 360 Panorama from my iPhone 4. I took this photo in my shop, S Eleven, it is the new wing. There is another lot similar size with more Gondola shelving.

My Parents' House

2010-10-06T14:46:00.004+11:00

All photos were taken by Audrey's Wedding Photographer, Chan.

This is my parents' house in Ipoh.

Color Scheme designed by Kuan Siew.

Landscape designed by The Green Pine.

It used to be a single storey linked house, the renovation guru - my father, has

extended it to a 1.5 storey (with a hidden attic) and side extension linked house.

Raya Cuti !

2010-10-04T17:47:00.003+11:00

The last Hari Raya holiday, we've spent wonderful family bonding time in Kl at sis Audrey house.
It was a fruitful trip, we replenished S 11's stock, got for my dress to attend Audrey wedding dinner, and we brought CS to swin for the first time.

We forgot about photo snapping when we were in the swimming pool. Both of them enjoyed the swimming part a lot.

The Brothers

The Brothers with Grandma Tan

These are the photos taken before the hair cut.

~ * ~ * ~ ~ * ~ * ~

Busy September 2010 for our family, Audrey married on the 25th September.

One week before the actual day, we went for rehearsal at St Andrew church. Everything is very new to us, it is our first time in the Tan family to held a church wedding. Yong Shuan is honored to be the Ring Boy for Audrey. As a mother, I guess I am more nervous than my son. We have been practicing this "psycho" method, we keep telling him on how he is supposed to walk down the aisle and to hand the ring to the Pastor and so.

He did well on the rehearsal, as well as on the actual day . Phewit ! {breathout}

When everyone was clapping, YS was like paused a few seconds deny to start his first step.
With a soft push, I started him to walk down the aisle.

I was a panic at that time, worry what if he just quit. Luckily he carried out the task wonderfully.

Muah ! Muah ! for YS. {Kiss}

More pictures on the actual day is on the way.

Cheng Shuan New Look

2010-09-29T19:49:00.003+10:00

After 100th days, I've brought CS to my Aunt's salon for his first hair cut.

Looks good?

Yong Shuan draws family portrait

2010-09-09T17:44:00.004+10:00

Today YS shows me his first family portrait drawing, clockwise from the top, orange color is YS himself, then mummy (me) the small blue one, then the center is daddy and the bottom one is CS Di-Di. According to YS, the comb-liked lines on the forehead is hair.

I am going to laminate and keep this for him.

He then signed his name YS on the drawing with the Y's strokes opened.

Here is a photo of him having his nap with the builder cap on .

After shooting this photo, I took his cap off, guess what?

He cried and asked for his cap the first thing after he woke up from his nap.

The remarkable year 2010

2010-08-31T20:13:00.003+10:00

I am very thankful,

2010 is the year :

Yong Shuan turned 3 years old healthy n happy;

I gave birth to Cheng Shuan 3.06kg;

I am breastfeeding CS and yet pump the extra for YS and he likes it;

S11, our business has expanded from one shop lot to two;

I've hired a maid to help out on the daily house chores;
and we are quite happy with her around,
she is a fast learner and smiles alot;

Audrey, my beloved sister is getting married this September;

my car Getz got stolen, and this has gave me a chance to change new car;

the list goes on and on...

I know more happy things will come around ...

Thankful.

Cheng Shuan at 2 months 2 weeks old

2010-08-31T16:58:00.004+10:00

Another 2 weeks passed, it seems that I have get used to the new routine at S11.
Cheng Shuan usual morning feed is around 6.30 to 7am then normally
I will fall asleep and wake up again around 8am.

Once SW, myself and maid is ready, we will leave home for S11.
We usually stop by the market to grab our breakfast and
some groceries for dinner. Upon reaching S11, SW and my maid will
get ready to open the shop for business, pull the rack out, sweep the floor etc,
meanwhile I will boil the water and get ready to bath
Yong Shuan and Cheng Shuan.
Once both my sons bathed and changed, it is almost close to lunch time.

We are now catering our lunch from a rice stall. Auntie will send the
food over everyday for our lunch. I will have to cook dinner myself.
Taking care of CS, feed him from time to time, read with YS, play with both of them
is my daily activities. We will soon need to send YS to kinder. I am going to miss him alot.

I started to worry whether will he feel nervous or frighten but SW keep
telling me we got to let go. He should learn to take care himself and social with others.

I guess most moms will have the same feeling with me, our baby is always baby.

These are the photos I took this morning with CS.

CS starts sucking his fist.

Difficult decision to choose which side is more tasty?

More and more babbles and bubbles from CS day by day.

Found YS photos from old blog entry, are the brothers look alike?
both are shot at the 10th week old.

S Eleven Store Flyer is here!

2010-08-23T21:11:00.007+10:00

Finally, S Eleven store flyer is here.

Happy to see these flyers piling on my desk, it shows
it have been a year we are still surviving in this neighbourhood
selling plasticware and household livingware.

A couple of weeks ago, we were fortunate to be able to rent the next shop lot,
we have demolished one wall to make an entrance between two shops.

Dad came last weekend to help on assemble the racking, more stock is arriving,
more work need to be done before our
shop looks presentable and appropriate.

Audrey & Ken 's ROM

2010-08-21T16:55:00.004+10:00

First and foremost, congratulations to
Ken - brother in law to be & Audrey for their ROM.

It was last Monday the memorable day of lifetime for Audrey my sister.
We were invited to witness the legal signing of Marriage for Audrey & Ken.

Yong Shuan put on the tie Audrey bought for him sometimes ago and
a pair of brand new shoe.

We shop around Ipoh for toddler 5 pieces suit for Yong Shuan,
as he is the one carry the pair of ring on the actual church wedding day for auntie Audrey.

Cannot wait for the day to come, lets hope YS will not go panic and
run around the aisle.

For those of you have linked to my FACEBOOK,
more pictures at your viewing pleasure at this link.

Photos credited to Kuan Siew godsis.

Cheng Shuan at 8weeks old

2010-08-09T12:56:00.001+10:00

Cheng Shuan at 6weeks old

2010-07-29T22:12:00.002+10:00

Mini Jabulani Football

2010-07-29T14:34:00.005+10:00

Milo has organised this program that we could redeem Mini Adidas Football
when one have collected enough Milo barcode.

Husband is eagerly collecting the barcode for his son.
He is even more excited than Yong Shuan to own this football.

Finally, the mini football is here.

This morning, I brought Yong Shuan to the nearest bicycle shop to get it filled.

Durian Trip ... Again

2010-07-22T13:55:00.005+10:00

Another round of durian trip to Sungai Siput, this time was with hubby.
We went there around 12.00noon,
we enjoyed the frog (tian-chee in Mandarin) noodles and durian as dessert.

We even packed some back Ipoh for friends and family.
Though it is coming to the end of durian season, the durian still taste
FINGER LICKING GOOD.

Fun times with Ren Jie

2010-07-22T13:12:00.004+10:00

Few days back, schoolmate, Hui Lian brought her son to have some fun time with Yong Shuan.
Ren Jie is going to be 2YO in 2 months time, looking at him and my Yong Shuan, Oh! come on .. Yong Shuan , you got to eat more.

TV was showing some kid's programme,

"Boys, Please look at the camera!"

Finally ....

Dialog with Yong Shuan

2010-07-20T12:32:00.002+10:00

永轩流鼻水了。

ME : 你伤风不可以 sayang 弟弟。妈咪怕你会传染给他。
YS : 妈咪，我是用口的，没有用鼻子。
ME : ??
YS : 我的鼻子伤风，口没有伤风。
ME : @_@|||

----

ME : 今天永轩你要陪妈咪去眼镜店吗? 还是到 TESCO 去 ?
YS : 妈咪，我要贪心，两个地方都要去。
ME : 不可以贪心。现在妈咪要给弟弟喂奶，不可以上街太长时间。你选一个地方我们就去那边。我需要去眼镜店就不能够去 TESCO 了.
YS : mm... mmm... 那我们去眼镜店，然后回家喂弟弟，再到 TESCO 去。可以吗？
ME : @_@|||

Lintang Durian Trip

2010-07-19T17:36:00.006+10:00

We went to this orchard at Lintang, Sungai Siput with family and Ken's parents.
Audrey suggested this trip on Saturday night after dinner, dad tried our luck to give
uncle a call if there are any more durian available for this season. Yes, there are.

The next day, we drove in one car - sis's brand new Alza,
it is very spacious, we were so happy to travel
in one car rather than two. It was my first trip to this place after
hearing it many times from dad.
We spent a wonderful afternoon with Ken's parents, everyone was happy with
the fruit, the weather and the journey.

The King

Ken was holding my prince to touch "the King"

Yummy ... Speechless ..

We were enjoying the fruit while Cheng Shuan was having
his afternoon nap on Grandma's shoulder

Uncle treated us some coconut drink, purposely took this to have a
clear look at his very own "chopping station".

We called off the day with the very famous "Mao San Huang" breed of durian - prefect.

Yong Shuan Birthday Dinner

2010-07-19T15:27:00.007+10:00

Cheng Shuan with Daddy and Mummy.

It is time for family photo.

With cousin Yun Hao and a photo with his favorite cheese cake.

Happy Birthday Yong Shuan

2010-07-16T17:46:00.006+10:00

I have purposely cropped this portion of the blog to use it as a new post here.
Today is Yong Shuan 3 years old birthday. We celebrated in advance last Wed when daddy is around town. We had vegetarian dinner with family member.

Yong Shuan enjoyed his Oreo Cheese Cake, once again from JJ Cakes,
highly recommended for those of you with healthy diet in mind.
No preservatives & low sugar.

More Photos to come...

Cheng Shuan Full Moon is here.

2010-07-14T16:04:00.005+10:00

Ang Koo, pickled gingers, Eggs and most important of all JJ Cakes Mini Rolls.
These are all packed together to become Cheng Shuan Full Moon Gift Set to be given
to all friends and relatives around Ipoh.

Grandma Tan & grandsons

2010-07-10T19:23:00.002+10:00

Mum helped to bath the two grandsons every morning for me.
After my confinement ends, I believe I will need to follow a set of routine
in order to settle my two sons.

3wks old Cheng Shuan and Yong Shuan

2010-07-08T19:46:00.005+10:00

Cheng Shuan at 3 Weeks Old.

Yong Shuan was playing my old-times-LEGO. He found this pirate gun,
pointed it and make the sound "Piang Piang",
" Mummy, you see, this gun is so small"
" Yes it was meant for the tiny hand of LEGO pirates."

More of the two boys

2010-07-04T16:25:00.003+10:00

Since mummy is on her "confinement", YS have to bath himself
with the help of Grandma - Tan of course.

with Maternal Grandparents ...

... and Paternal Grandparents and cousin Yun Hao.

At 40thweek

2010-07-04T16:18:00.002+10:00

Along this pregnancy, we were occupied with alot other thing,
therefore only managed to snap few photos right before I give birth to Cheng Shuan.

Photos were taken at 40th week.

Just Photos of Yong Shuan

2010-07-02T18:02:00.004+10:00

These photos were taken during his age of 28th month, sometimes October 2009.

Since we started to work on S11 our retail store, most of Yong Shuan photos were taken in the store. This is one of them, he helps to water the plant for daddy. We love Kaffir Lime, we used to have one in Melbourne. Back to Malaysia, grandpa-Lee bought us this Kaffir Lime plant. Since Yong Shuan is not a spicy hot food lover, I hardly cook Tom Yam. Basically we just pluck the leaves to enjoy the smell at our finger tips.

He is good helper when we go shopping at the local hypermarket. He helps to remind mummy her shopping list, which mostly item such like cheese, yogurt drinks, biscuit - YONG SHUAN's list.

Fresh from Siew's Camera

2010-06-26T13:49:00.007+10:00

Godsis brought me some durian yesterday. As a Malaysian, I am very proud we produces really good kampung durian. I am not a fans of durian, however I must say yesterday treat was good. The moisture, tenderness and smell of this kampung durian is all grade one.
Thanks Sis.

She also brought some "莲子". This is my all time favorite, I never miss them if it is available at pasar malam.

And she took these photos for me.

Cheng Shuan look alike his brother?

2010-06-25T21:46:00.004+10:00

The moment Godsis posted Cheng Shuan's photo at Faceboook, this is
the comment I got from friends and relatives , "Oh, look just like his brother, Yong Shuan."

I still need sometime to dig my CD for Yong Shuan's photo when he was this age.

Personally, I agreed with their saying.

What do you think?

Pictures of Yong Shuan

2010-06-24T12:00:00.005+10:00

To me, this is the best picture of the year for Yong Shuan.

Thanks to Godsis - Kuan Siew.

~ * ~ * ~

Since I am still in my confinement, I stayed home and Shaowen brought Yong Shuan to attend SL's picnic party last weekend. YS enjoyed the party very much, he came home and told me, :

"Mummy, SL Gor Gor cake is a basketball."

"Mummy, I played kite."

"Mummy, just now in PoloGround, GorGor JieJie played with me"

2nd baby is HERE

2010-06-22T18:42:00.003+10:00

After 40weeks and 2 days, my 2nd son is here with us.
Thanks to all who dropped by at the hospital as well as "virtually" sms or Facebook.

Photo credited to God Sis - Kuan Siew. She is good in capturing the "MOMENT" for us.
We'll soon need her help again in the family photo with 4 of us.

Baby is slightly heavier than Yong Shuan, 3.06KG.
And his name is Lee Cheng Shuan - 李承轩。

More photos to come...

Getting ready to Kindergarten

2010-06-11T12:57:00.005+10:00

We thought it is good if we send YS to kinder while I am having my confinement in Ipoh. We need to teach YS to say wee or poo in english so that he can communicates with the teacher.

ME : YS, how to say "我要小便" in english?
YS : Teacher, I want to wee.

ME : Good

ME : YS, how to say "我要大便" in english?
YS : Teacher, I want to poo.

ME : Good

ME : YS, if you see teacher in the morning, how are you going to greet her?
YS : Teacher, I want to Good Morning.

ME : @_@|||

YS's bed time story

2010-05-31T19:05:00.005+10:00

I enjoyed reading bed time story to YS before he sleep. Usually he will picks the story book from the cupboard himself and we read for him. After many rounds of the same story, hubby and myself have know exactly what to tell even without reading at it.

Last weekend, we travelled to KL for some errands. Since I did not bring any books with me this trip, I asked if YS still like to have a story before he sleep, he answered "Yes Mummy", sis Audrey present at the time of this bed time story. YS said he would like to listen to the title "Prince and His Missing Tooth". This is the n-th time my son listen to this story. He used to be quiet and patient all these while.

The story begin...

ME : There is this Prince Charming, he woke up one day and found his tooth missing, so he asked around for his tooth, he asked to the Giant Tree, " Did you see my tooth? " and the tree said , " Oh, I lost my leaf too, can you please help to find it? then I shall tell you where is your tooth." , then he walk to the Swan , " Did you see giant tree's missing leaf? ", " Oh I lost one of my feathers too, can you please help to find it? then I shall tell you where is the giant tree's leaf gone." answered the Swan.

... the story continue and prince asked to Cricket and so...

Suddenly !!

YS : Mummy, why? How come the Giant Tree, Swan and Cricket speak in the story ?

ME : @_@|||

ME : Yes, in fairy tale story, creatures, trees and plants speak to human being !

每天晚上，我们会让永轩自己挑绘本，我们念给他听。上个周末我和永轩到外地去，当我把滚瓜烂熟的绘本故事讲给他听时。。。

我：有一天，小王子睡醒发现自己的门牙不见了。他就到处去找门牙。来到大树前，他问大树，你有看见我的门牙吗？大树就说，哦，我的叶子也掉落不见了，你帮我找回来我告诉你门牙在那里。

接着，故事一直延伸到小王子问了天鹅，蝉，葫芦棚架等等。

这是，永轩突然问我， “ 妈咪为什么大树，天鹅，蝉，葫芦棚，它们会讲话的呢？ ”

@_@||| 这么一问，我被吓到，不懂如何回答他。就只好说，这是故事，故事里的大树，天鹅，蝉是会讲话的。

天啊！谁可以帮帮忙，我要应如何应对以后可能他再问一些我不懂回答的问题。

Dialog with Yong Shuan

2010-05-24T15:16:00.007+10:00

I enjoyed chatting with my going-to-be 3 years old. He surprised me most of the time with the vocabulary he used. We practice speaking in Mandarin most of the time, occasionally Cantonese.

Incident No. 1:
ME : 弟弟将要出世了，我会和永轩回怡保小住。
YS : NO, 妈咪。你和爸爸看店，你丢下我和阿嘛和 Ginger (our beloved toy poodle) , 阿公. 我们就这样"决定"啦.

Mmmm. I wonder where did he learn the word 决定 ?

Incident No. 2:
ME : 妈咪需要去一趟看牙医, 你和阿嘛在家等妈咪, 好不好?
YS : 不可以, 妈咪。我和你一起去. 我也要看牙医.
ME : 但是你不能够进去房间里面等妈咪.
YS : 我要进去, 我 promise 我不会乱乱碰牙医的东西.
ME : @_@|||

Incident No. 3:
YS : 妈咪, 我要去学校.
ME : 好啊. 那你要学会自己穿鞋. 不需要妈咪帮的.
YS : 我自己穿会很慢嘛. 妈咪帮我会比较快.
ME : 那你去学校谁帮呢?
YS : 叫老师帮咯.
ME : @_@|||

Incident No. 4:
YS : 妈咪, 我要去学校.
ME : 好啊. 妈咪在附近找学校给你报名.
YS : 不要. 不要附近的. 要远远的.
ME : 为什么?
YS : 可以坐巴士去.
ME : @_@|||

More to come....

Yong Shuan first movie in the cinema - How to Train Your Dragon.

2010-04-08T16:12:00.004+10:00

S11 rest every Wednesday, so we went to replenish some stock and sundry. Upon finish, daddy bring Yong Shuan to experience his first cartoon in the cinema. Before we went into the theater, we kept telling him it is ok if he prefers to walk out of the cinema, though in our mind, we wish him to watch at least once in the cinema until the end.

We picked this Dreamworks - How to Train Your Dragon. I must say today's cartoon are meant to be viewed both by the adults and kids. The story line is good, animation is bravo and cute. It is recommended.

Luckily the sound system of this cinema at Seberang Jaya is not very loud, I am not sure if it is the speaker or the movie itself, but we loved the way it is. Yong Shuan will be frighten if the sound is too loud. He used to watch movie at home from the TV or Laptop but not in the cinema.

After the show, we went to this Mega Kiddie World for some sweat session for Yong Shuan. Both of us ended up more exhausted than our boy. This place is all covered with sponged pillar and gigantic slides, rubber balls shooting, round trampoline, gigantic piano on the floor etc. He loves the pool of plastic balls while the daddy thought to get him one round trampoline when we can afford our own place one day.

The wanted UWA Lens

2010-02-22T22:37:00.007+11:00

Right before the Chinese New Year break, SW bought his first 50mm 1.8 prime lens from Penang. I am not good at photo shooting and camera spec but have been reading a lot from this group invited by Godsis - Shutterbug for Fun in Facebook.

Once the camera shop owner fix the lens up, WOW.. marvelous. We cannot wait to shoot more still life object and portrait. Since we wish to know at least how far are we from our desired UWA lens and the add-on flash light kit, we have asked about the Nikkor one as well as the the 3rd parties'. This kind uncle the shop owner allow us to have a try on the UWA. It was so tempting to own one when we see the result of the shooting. However, RM3k is like WOW.....!

The left is the normal lens we got when we first bought the Nikon D40X and the right is the UWA 10-24mm. Arrrggghhh ! We got to work harder and save more.

Just Photos

2010-02-21T18:18:00.004+11:00

We went to Gurney Penang for Daddy's New Year Shirt, these are the photos taken during lunch at Manhattan Fish Market. Yong Shuan loves the Baked Dory Fish with Herbs.

Thanks to Daddy's ex-colleague, she shared her HD's coupons. Yong Shuan enjoyed the HD's limited edition - Chocolate Orange Ice Cream very much and of course daddy never miss Green Tea is another flavor we tried on.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~

We went lunch with mum couple weeks ago at this new De Garden near JJ Ipoh. If you are a fans of FookChew Dishes - 红昭鸡(译音), then there is this place called TOS that served this in their menu. Sorry no pictures on the food, we were too hungry.

By the way, Godsis Siew took some nice landscape photos at her flickr. Click and have a look.

Penang Butterfly Farm & Hard Rock

2010-02-21T17:46:00.006+11:00

Finally, I managed to find time to clean up my HDD. I found these photos in the folder waiting to be uploaded to the blog. My daily responsible at S Eleven is more routine now, hopefully this continue on so that I have time for my photos and the blog.

We went to Penang Butterfly Farm last Nov. Wednesday is rest day for S Eleven. If we never make a trip back to Ipoh, we mostly spend time at Penang or Butterworth for dining & quality family time.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~

Thanks to Godsis - Siew's effort in making a wonderful birthday vacation comes true. She has gathered my childhood friend and we went to Hard Rock to enjoy a sunny weekend in Penang.
Yes, this is the first hotel staying trip since Siem Reap last Feb. We enjoyed the pool, the slide and the room very much.

My 2009

2010-01-02T17:06:00.003+11:00

I used to think, during job interview, why the interviewer like to ask questions that sound like this " What's your biggest achievement in life so far? " , " How you see yourself in 5 years time? " . Does any of you heard something like this before ? " Just imagine, what if you won a 10 millions jackpot after 2 weeks we hired you, what would you do with the money and your job? "

A few of my cousins are going through these this time of the year. I am feeling good because I will not need to have that any more, as long as I keep doing what I am working hard now, and keep improving it.

Yes, 2009 has been one of the good year in my life. Not forgot to mention I got married on 2005, give birth to YS on 2007. We started a "family business" this year - S Eleven Store. I called it "family" because almost everyone in the family contributes to the business in one way or another. Thank you.

2009, we went to Hard Rock Hotel for getaway with childhood friends during their opening promotion. It was our first Hard Rock stay.

2009, mum diagnosed with a weird blood disorder that even the doctor cannot explain the root cause of it, however we feel lucky we discovered it earlier and treating it now. Her condition is now stable and we feel thankful every morning when we wake up that mum is happy.

2009, start to hear from Audrey, she is planning her wedding. So we are looking forward for a simple yet grand and meaningful day to come somewhere end of the year.

2009, Audrey bought her own unit in KL. It is like another home for us whenever we wish to stop by KL for shopping of any other errands. We even left our personal belonging like toothbrush there for convenient sick.

2009, we went to Siam Reap and visited one of the world greatest heritage - Angkor Wat. We brought YS and my parents along. Everyone enjoyed the get together, especially Audrey & parents with YS.

My 2010, I am looking forward my second baby, expanding business solution for S Eleven Store and another family vacation.

New Ticker

2009-12-27T16:31:00.003+11:00

Some of you may have noticed, I have added one new ticker in this blog. Yes, I am carrying another baby in my tummy and praying hard for all the best coming on 2010.

May my family and everyone out there prosperous and good wishes be with you in the coming 2010.

Happy New Year !

Weep ... Weep ...

2009-12-26T20:58:00.003+11:00

This afternoon, while we were busy unpacking stocks from the supplier, Yong Shuan found this small whisk set in the box. He said to daddy : "Can I have this?". Daddy said : " No, you got to earn money to buy from daddy. "

The next thing you know, Yong Shuan walked to the cash register, hit the button, opened the drawer, get 5 cents and hand to his daddy. " Nah, daddy now I buy this from you."

Daddy and Mummy gave Yong Shuan a big big hug and tears rolling. We have to start teaching him cannot simply open the drawer, and 5 cents is not equal to RM 4.30.

Weep... Weep..

Belated Birthday Post

2009-10-11T21:05:00.004+11:00

Last July, we celebrated YS's second birthday at Restaurant Kao Lee, Ipoh Garden. We bought him a chocolate strawberry cake. We had Hong Kong Dim Sum for breakfast before we headed north to resume business after our usual Wednesday break. Grandparents Lee and grandparents Tan joined the session.

More of Yong Shuan at S11

2009-10-11T20:45:00.007+11:00

Just some photo updates of YS at S Eleven - our household plasticware shop. These days, we have a lot of uninvited guest in the shop - houseflies. Whenever you bring food to the storefront, they will keep following your food where ever you go. We have been practicing to cover the food with the dish cover. We found this one day, when YS covered his own drink with the smallest colander in the store.

Since YS is staying with us in Sungai Petani,
we have bring his "left behind only pet" - 大宏 the tortoise along.
Everytime we feed 大宏, YS will say "大宏, 你 mum mum la!"

Lately, we found 大宏 is not quite happy since his/her partner left him. He hardly eat the snack we fed. We used to have two, one died of some infection on the eyes. And some silly
aquarium owner mentioned that the small animal was bitten by mosquito. I tried to search from the internet, it's said most probably caused by the water.

S Eleven officially opened !

2009-09-19T12:39:00.003+10:00

To all my blog follower, I must say "Sorry" , I know it has been long overdue for updates. For the past few months we have been busy with the setting up of our new store in Sungai Petani, Kedah. Yes ! S Eleven is officially opened on the 28th May 2009. Thank you to all family members, relatives and friends, thanks for all the uncountable support and blessing. Thanks to sis Audrey for sponsoring the workstation.

A friend of us , Chin has helped to designed my signboard and flyer. We have decided to have this "Petronas" green as our corporate color. As festive season is just near the corner, we have moved all cake mould and biscuit cutter to the offer bin.

Yong Shuan helps to put label on most of the item, passing to daddy to stack them up on the rack.

He even plays hide and seek with cousin Yun Hao when sis in law visits our store.

* * * More updates to come * * *

New Table from IKEA

2009-05-23T19:26:00.004+10:00

During our last visit to IKEA, we bought YS this set of table and 2 chairs.

When daddy busy assembling the table, YS also wish to help.

At 20 months old

2009-05-23T18:35:00.006+10:00

We have been busy preparing on a new business. That's why I hardly update the blog.

Following are the photos we captured YongShuan at 20 months old.

~ * ~ * ~

One of YS creative outcome: he took all the house key and poke them into holes found on grandma shoe.

~ * ~ * ~

We saved 50Cent coins for YS to put into his piggy bank himself.

~ * ~ * ~

Weeks ago, we brought Yong Shuan to "Pologround", he played on the playground slide. He was so excited and ever since the trip, he keep saying "上楼梯，坐滑板" in mandarin, meaning "climb up the stairs and sit on the playground slide".

~ * ~ * ~

Yes, like others boy, YS plays car too. He usually will line them up in a straight line. And he will always remember to put the "Natasha" - what we called the yellow hair Pokemon character you found in the photo below on the back of his favorite grey color lorry.

~ * ~ * ~

Ah-Gong, Happy Birthday!

2009-03-25T21:35:00.000+11:00

Digital Scrapbooking

2009-03-20T13:50:00.004+11:00

Yesterday, I was exploring the latest freebies from ShabbyPrincess while waiting for Shao Wen attending his course in Prai.

Sometimes ago, I wanted to start one digital scrapbook for Yong Shuan. Until now, I only got finger-count pages in my folder. I agreed with God sis Siew, she is right about "when you have a son" .

Let's have a peek on one of the page.

Siem Reap Trip #2

2009-02-17T02:58:00.003+11:00

.... Continued ....

2009 Feb 10 - Noon - Everyone was getting tired. We only managed to visit Bayon, Baphuon, Phimeanakas, Terrace of Elephant, Terrace of Leper King (from far) and Prasat Suor Prat. Map of the Angkor Thom is available from this link. While waiting for the van to pick us up at the road side, we snapped a few more photos of Yong Shuan.

2009 Feb 10 - Lunch - The driver recommended another place named Khmer Family Restaurant which located within the Angkor Archeological Park for our lunch. We had Khmer Soup, Fried Rice, Pork Rib, Fried Glass Noodles etc. Again, we were too hungry, no photo on the food.

2009 Feb 10 - Noon - The temple visit journey continued to Ta Phrom, the very famous place for the shooting of "Tomb Rider" staring Angelina Jolie.

2009 Feb 10 - Noon - After Ta Phrom, we headed back to Siem Reap City, on our way home, we stopped by to snap more photos or Pre Rup - another ancient Hindu temple. We packed some french bread from the Blue Pumpkin and rest in the hotel.

2009 Feb 11 - Morning - We had breakfast in hotel, then we headed north of Siem Reap to visit another famous temple - Banteay Srei. This place is famous for its unique and well preserve craving on the whole building. All the craving on the wall are extremely clear even though it has passed through more than 1000 years of natural erosion. Since this is somewhere 30km north of Siem Reap, we had the chance to see the lifesytle of Cambodian people on our way there. Following are some of the photos taken from our van window.

Banteay Srei

On way back, we stopped by to buy some palm tree sweets and souvenirs.

We visited to the Mine Museum, where they exhibit all the different land mines used during the war time in Cambodia.

According to one friend's itinerary, he stopped by this Miniature Angkor Wat, we followed and discovered a different version of Angkor Wat and a few other famous building.

Took group photo in front of the hotel.

2009 Feb 12 - This is the free & easy day for our Siem Reap trip, we rest and relax in the hotel room for the morning session. Van service was ordered to send us to city around 1pm and pick us back around 7pm. We went to one of the famous Cambodia BBQ, old market for more souvenir shopping etc.

Yong Shuan pretended as he knows how to read the menu.

2009 Feb 13 - Early breakfast in hotel then check-out and get ready to fly back to KL.

Siem Reap Trip #1

2009-02-16T01:22:00.006+11:00

Yong Shuan's first family trip with Grandpa Grandma Tan was to Siem Reap, Cambodia. We booked the Air Asia ticket 6 months ago, and yes we were charged with fuel surcharge ... Grrgghhh.... Since we were travelling with infant and elderly, I emailed the driver/tour guide and told him I need a light and easy vacation. Thanks to all friends who shared their itineraries and advises. Though we never finish all the temples, we had a fruitful trip, like my sis Audrey said, most of all we love the "family" get together. We took alot of nice photos and I told SW I wish my next birthday gift is one SLR camera.

2009 Feb 09 - Landed Siem Reap International Airport
Yong Shuan played with his cap in the hotel lobby. We stayed at the Empress Angkor Hotel.

2009 Feb 09 Noon - We visited the Silk Farm. The following two photos were taken while the guide explained the process from the begining of worm breeding to the final step of making the silk scaft. Amazing journey...

2009 Feb 09 -Lunch at local Khmer Restaurant recommended by the driver.
( Sorry .. Since we were too tired and hungry, we hardly take picture during the meal time )
We had Amok (Fish/Chicken cook in coconut milk and served in the coconut), Khmer spring rolls, Sliced Pork stir fried with Basil Leaves, Tom Yam Soup etc.

2009 Feb 09 - After lunch, we headed to Stone and Wood Craving Centre, actually these two silk farm and craving centres are run by the same organization, it is called the Artisan d'Angkor. We went back to the same place the following day to shop for the stone craving and silk, as we could not find any similar quality one from the Old Market.

2009 Feb 09 Evening - We went to the ticket booth to buy the Entry Passes to the Angkor Archaeological Pack. They allowed free access to see the sunset inside the Angkor Wat on that day itself if you buy the ticket for the following day. We managed to snap some nice photos.

2009 Feb 10 - 5am - Myself and hubby woke up early and we went to the Angkor Wat to see the sunrise. We left Yong Shun with grandma and grandpa in the hotel. It was truly amazing to see the sunrise in Angkor Wat and the temples as background in our photo. We then went into the temple with our Tour Guide - Mr. Phranna. (I hope I spell his name correctly). He brought us one round the Angkor Wat and explained the bas relief in each galleries.

2009 Feb 10 - Morning - We went back to hotel for our breakfast and to pick up Yong Shuan and the rest. We then visited to few more temples within the Angkor Thom area. Among them, I would have to say Bayon is the most fascinating one.

We enjoyed this trip, simply because when we like to climb to higher spot to snap good photo, Grandpa was helping to "jaga" & entertain Yong Shuan for us. When we were tired, everyone else has helped to carry, to push the stroller for us. Surprised us Yong Shuan walked alot during the whole trip, we brought the stroller and it was only used when he fall sleep during his afternoon nap.

.... to be continued ....

Our recent KL Trip

2009-02-04T15:44:00.003+11:00

Not long ago, both of us went to KL for one day trip to meet with friends and my sis - Audrey. We had the chance to shop around Midvalley and found this Nyonya place. They served Nyonya Kuehs and dishes. As I am not fan of sweet food, we ordered two Angkoo and the Otak-otak to try the taste. By the way, we paid RM 0.90 for the "small" Angkoo Kueh's sized just like Malauysia 50cent coin.

Pictures of YS at 17th Month

2009-02-04T15:34:00.005+11:00

This was taken during charity dinner with Aunt Audrey ...
it was just few days after we landed Malaysia.

Family photo with Yong Shuan's cousin - Yun Hao

YS's first time to IPOH train station, Yeh-Yeh Nai-Nai took the train to Singapore.
Everyday activity of Yong Shuan is to switch on and off the amplifier & the DVD player.

Yummy sweet corn

2009-01-18T14:34:00.001+11:00

I used to give corn to Yong Shuan in a cup. Grandma has prepared this sweetcorn soup for us yesterday, upon finish the soup, Yong Shuan enjoyed the self-feeding session as well.

More Pictures

2008-12-30T04:14:00.005+11:00

" Daddy pushing me along river side of Yarra river, in front of Crown Casino.
Mummy love to see me wearing this cap. "

" Took these photos with the staff at Box Hill Early Learning Center."

" Mummy daddy sold most of the furniture to this guy driving ambulance,
he came and picked up the furniture after work,
it was my first time to see Ambulance carry furniture. "

" Daddy dismantle the dining table,
I tried to help by sitting in the middle of the table and watch daddy."

" Full fight again, hahaha, hopefully sitting close to the gate,
we can go in earlier when the gate open"

1st Family photo of the 3 of us...

2008-12-30T03:30:00.003+11:00

Photos are copyright of Advanced Photographer P / L, Australia.

This is our 1st family photo taken by professional photographer in Australia. It was taken during the fund raising event held by Yong Shuan's child care center sometimes in October. When I booked for the photo shooting I was worried if the photos able to be developed on time. I was lucky that the photographer helped to get it done on time, just 2 days before we jumped on the plane. Otherwise, I might need to trouble my best buddy to bring back to Malaysia for me.

The photo A (family photo) with frame and complimentary key chain just cost me $15 and the money will go to center. Additional copy of photo was sold at $55 each, the more you buy the cheaper it goes. These people very clever that they took more photos during the shooting session especially those with only the kid alone. As parents, we found the photo nicely taken and ended up with all three set - Couple, Family and the Kid.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2009 !

2008-12-25T20:07:00.000+11:00

To Aunties, Uncles, Cousins, Great grandmother : Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
May Everyone's heart Lighten up with Joy & Prosperity

Ee I ee I O

2008-12-12T02:42:00.003+11:00

The joy of parenthood !~ :)

Some Pics

2008-12-10T02:17:00.006+11:00

By looking at my blog archive listing only then I realized it has been a long long time since my last update of Yong Shuan's photo in this blog. Most of my friends out there might noticed the change that happened to my family lately, we have moved back to IPOH, Malaysia. Please find the following photos taken when we were still in Melbourne.

At the PARK, riding the wooden bike.

Found this winter beanie while packing our stuffs to ship back to IPOH, YS enjoyed me multiburst his funny expression.

YS's first "Ang Moh Lao" - bruise after knocked his head to the tea chest table's corner.

One day, rabbit from next door visited our backyard. It was the first time YS spent hours sit still next to the glass door starring at the rabbit. In order to attract the rabbit to come close to the glass door for YS, I have placed the carrot there.

" First time wearing my first nike shoes, daddy got this for me years before he married mummy.
Daddy was so excited when my foot finally fit into the shoes "

Like Daddy Like Son

Comes to the day we packed our luggages and headed to the airport, while waiting for our flight at the MAS lounge. YS made a mess leaving biscuits bits everywhere from the sidetable to the carpet.

Outdated ?!?!

2008-11-19T13:00:00.005+11:00

This moring I was surfing the Internet for upcoming fairs and events that were about to be held at MIECC or PWTC. Guess what I found? - 2006 listing of event in today's website. What happened to the webmaster? What a shame.... when some foreigner wish to surf for more information on a particular events. :(

Mr Blobby...

2008-11-06T18:06:00.002+11:00

Comes to the time of the year when everyone is busy decorating house for Christmas , New Year then Chinese New Year... Godsis have shared the ADV of Mr Blobby. To anyone who wish to paint their house or office, do grab this opportunity to own yourself the range of cute Mr Blobby(s) from Nippon.

On the other hand, I have this games DeBlob for Wii, if you are a fan of DeBlob like me, you would love the collection of Mr Blobby from Nippon.

He walks, he walks.. Hooray!

2008-10-06T20:30:00.002+11:00

Wow... SW and I try to keep quiet and watch Yong Shuan walks on his own.. 2 steps.. 3 steps followed by more and more steps.. We then start to treat it like a game for him to walk to daddy and to mummy... Wow. Amazing feeling to watch him try to balance, touch the ground with his hand, stand and start walking..

Home Cooking 7

2008-09-19T14:16:00.002+10:00

Steamed King Prawn
蒜米蒸虾

Fillet and Leek with Black-bean Sauce
蒜菜石斑鱼片

Chicken Winglet with Garlic Sprout
蒜苗伴鸡翼

Chicken Winglet with Bitterguard in Black-bean Sauce
豆豉苦瓜伴鸡翼

Sweat sour Pork Rib
糖醋排骨

Werribee Open Range Zoo

2008-09-13T18:15:00.003+10:00

YY's parents came to Melbourne to spend 1-month holiday with their daughter and "going-to-be" son-in-law. She has planned a few places for her parents, we joined one of them this morning which is the Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Japanese Stone Grill Dinner

2008-09-08T23:17:00.003+10:00

We had our team dinner last Friday at Ishiya Stonegrill. This restaurant is located at Little Bourke Street, a.k.a Melbourne's Chinatown. They heated the volcanic stone to 400 degree Celsius, then served your choice of main course on the stone for you. SW ordered the Wagyu Beef set, while I ordered the Grilled Tori (chicken) with Fried Rice. Rest of the teammates ordered the Wagyu beef as well, as it was the highly recommended specialty of the restaurant. Yong Shuan shared some fried rice with mummy. He enjoyed himself the whole night walking on the sofa crossing between my back and auntie's.

Melbourne Zoo

2008-09-02T13:46:00.004+10:00

Last Saturday was our first visit to Melbourne Zoo. My last zoo visit was when mum came last year for my confinement, we went with her to Healesville Sanctuary.

It has been sometimes since we plan to bring Yong Shuan to Zoo. Lately, we found he recognizes DOG, ELEPHANT, ZEBRA, LION so daddy promises him to visit Zoo to show him the REAL animal. Overall was fun, Yong Shuan missed TIGER "twice" as when we passed the BIG CATS section in the beginning he was Zzzz.... Zzzz... Zzzz.. later on before we say GOOD-BYE we went to the same path just to make sure he see TIGER, again Yong Shuan Zzz.. Zzz.. :(

Happy Birthday Daddy

2008-08-31T20:03:00.000+10:00

Happy Birthday Daddy

~ * ~ * ~ * ~

Last Tuesday, we went with friends to TOMODACHI Japanese Restaurant to celebrate SW's birthday. Mummy had Unagi Set Dinner while daddy had his favorite soft shell crab Bento Box; Yong Shuan enjoyed some sushi platter and Tofu.

Spring is here.

2008-08-24T14:44:00.002+10:00

Lake Mountain Trip

2008-08-24T09:53:00.000+10:00

We went to the Lake Mountain last year with Yong Shuan still 38th week inside me. This year we went there again on Saturday which was around the end of the Winter. Out of our expectation, the snow is still thick which is around 75cm. And this time we rent the toboggan and we had alot of fun with it. We sloped down a few toboggan runs.

YS's afternoon tea

2008-08-20T16:43:00.006+10:00

While waiting for our turn to have the hair cut at one of the shopping town, we spent some wonderful afternoon tea time with Yong Shuan. We enjoyed staring at him flipping the papers, video is available at my YouTube.

Waiting at the Salon's bench.

Yong Shuan's Speech Development

2008-08-19T10:43:00.003+10:00

I am forgetful, I am not good at date. I cannot remember when was the first time Yong Shuan started babbling. All I knows is he knows how to call "Mummy" now. All the while he has been calling "Ma-Ma" and I told SW that I wish my son calls me "Mummy" instead of "Ma-Ma"

It was the day I went for my wisdom tooth extraction, SW brought YS to the PetWorld and shown him "Puppies". After a few rounds of repeating "Puppy" to him, YS picked up "Pu-Poo". In the afternoon, he managed to say "Puppy", SW quickly teach him "Mummy" and YS called out loud "M~u~M~m~Y". I dont know how to describe the feeling through words. I believe all mummies out there will know how it feel. * SYOK*

These are the words Yong Shuan know at this point of time.
- Pa Pa (He calls to his daddy everytime daddy walks into the house after work)
- Bear
- NaNa (Banana)
- Dog
- Puppy
- Mummy
- More (This is when we feed him, I guess he knew about this from the child care)
-"Chee Ceh" (Car in mandarin)
- Ball
- Oh-Oh (when anything falls on the floor)
- Dao (when we calls his name in full, he will raises his hand and answers this mandarin word meaning "Yes"
- Bye-Bye

More Face Painting

2008-08-10T20:29:00.005+10:00

Pumpkin Patch has opened another outlet at the Westfield Shopping Town close to our house.

This time they have make-up artist giving face painting to all the kids. Seeing the artist patiently draws "kitten" "leopard" on those Caucasian girls, I have asked for a simple one on YS.

......

......

the artist has drawn something rather simple :

a "STAR"

......

......

Shopping

2008-08-10T20:24:00.003+10:00

"Daddy said I can pick anything I like. :) "

YS attended Damien's birthday party

2008-08-03T20:47:00.010+10:00

We went to a birthday celebration last Friday at Sofia, Hawthorn. This place served big portion and since it was our first time there, we were not aware of this, we ended up packing some left over food for next lunch next day. We enjoyed the ambiance and food. Following are the photos ..

Beside the Carbonara Spaghetti, we have ordered personal size gourmet pizza and a seafood salad.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~

Happy 6th Birthday to Damien Ko-Ko

Skin Prick Test

2008-08-03T18:13:00.004+10:00

I brought Yong Shuan to see Allergist last Wednesday to have his skin prick test on some of the common allergies. Good news is, Yong Shuan didnot react to Wheat, Cow Milk, Soy, Egg White, Dust Mite and Mix Grass. This means he can have most of my home cooking. Doctor said we should reserve the peanut and shell fish when he turns 2 or even bigger.

The photo showed the nurse has marked Yong Shuan's back with numbers and the control test '+' and '-'.

Bare Feet ? or Shoes ?

2008-07-25T11:56:00.005+10:00

We went to the Maternal Nurse for Yong Shuan's 12th month assessment on Wednesday. The nurse took all the measurement and test Yong Shuan on his gross motor, vision, fine motor, speech, hearing, social behaviour & play development, she confirmed most skills that should be there is present.

She passed to me the 12th month notes for parents, it was written in the note that recommended parents to let your baby bare feet as long as possible is for the best of your babies. Of course I have to protect him from injury, cold and heat. The nurse has asked me to let Yong Shuan walks, runs, jumping, climbing with bare feet. However Chinese do practice to wear shoes (normally is was a gift from grandma on his first birthday) after the baby turned one. Mmmm.. :)

As the first time mummy, I can't stop myself from staring at the babies shoes display when ever I go shopping. These days merchandisers are too clever to tackle the shopper with all the designs.

We will try to let Yong Shuan practice to push off his bare toes as often as we can especially when we are indoor or even on the grass (which we got to wait until SPring /Summer comes) .

Mini Train Ride

2008-07-21T20:05:00.003+10:00

20th July, last Sunday was the public ride day for Box Hill Miniature Steam Train ride. We've been to this place sometimes ago, unfortunately it was booked for some private function during that time.

Finally, the day has come. We were so excited waiting for the ride to open. We were among the first group of the customers and they did not even have small change to our note. Luckily daddy found enough coins in the coin bag to pay $4.00 ($2.00/adult).

These are some of the photo. Yong Shuan was not in good mood that morning, we planned to come back again on the first Sunday of next month.

Thanks to one of station guard who snapped this family photo for us.

Yong Shuan's 1st Birthday - Part 2

2008-07-16T13:49:00.007+10:00

Following are some notes of what I have done starting Friday, the 11th July.

Early morning, I went to the cake shop to order for my son's 1st birthday cake, I had ordered Tiramisu as most of the guests are adults, and it turned out everyone loved the choice. I phoned to the Sushi Shop to order the Sushi Platter, shopped for the ingredient to make Chicken Sausage Roll and so on.

Then, during Yong Shuan's nap time, I quickly prepared some chicken sausage rolls for the next day. At night, after he went to bed, I cooked the Curry Chicken.

Saturday morning around 10 am, I fried the Mee Hoon and cooked the dessert "Black Glutinous Rice with Red Bean".

Meanwhile, daddy went to bring the cake, some KFC and he even went to the POST office to claim the parcel from Sis.

Yong Shuan enjoyed the day, after everyone sang him the birthday song, he enjoyed the feast. One of our friends brought his Nintendo Wii, we had spent a wonderful Saturday. Half way, Yong Shuan went for his afternoon nap then woke up and continued to play with all his new toys.

I did not cook dinner, we continued to have those food for dinner. Two couples joined us as they stayed back for the Wii, especially the Wii Fit.

Toothache

2008-07-15T08:37:00.003+10:00

"Ok my dear, I know you got toothache. Be patient, your 5th and 6th tooth is coming."

Home Cooking 6

2008-07-12T10:43:00.003+10:00

Finally, I cooked my favorite Chilies Seafood Dish in Melbourne, this time I have replaced the crab with prawn. It is hard for me to write the recipe here, as I am not a person that really follow instruction. I got this habit to add a bit of this and that. If there is anyone interested to know more, I can email you the KC's recipe and method to cook this. Next time, I will try to cook with scallops or cuttlefish.

Yong Shuan's 1st Birthday - Part 1

2008-07-05T21:19:00.006+10:00

"Happy Birthday, Yong Shuan"

It seems most of the blogging Mum wrote their baby's first birthday post into part 1, 2 and so on. I am going to do the same as well, as we just celebrated Yong Shuan's 1st birthday in lunar calendar this morning. We have planned a simple party for him next weekend, so please be patient with the coming part 2 post.

This morning celebration was rather simple, I cooked some red eggs and "Mee Sua" soup for Yong Shuan's lunch. Daddy dressed up Yong Shuan with new clothes and shoes.

Here are some of the photos.

Home Cooking 5

2008-06-30T20:57:00.003+10:00

These photos have been a while sitting in my HOME COOKING folder, finally I found time to share them here.

From Top Right : Pisang Goreng, Foo Yu Fried Chicken, Honey Soy Chicken, Pumpkin with Snow Peas

Unconditional Love

2008-06-30T20:43:00.003+10:00

We went to shopping town last weekend and this store named RIOT was having this face painting campaign. In stead of the face, we asked the girl to paint on Yong Shuan's hand.

" Unconditional Love " - from daddy and mummy.

Swimming Time Again

2008-06-25T15:57:00.003+10:00

After we came back to Melbourne, the weather and some cough and cold have limit us to bring Yong Shuan to swim in the public pool. Last Sunday we managed to find time for this long waited family activity. Luckily he still can fit into his swim suit. Otherwise we got to change the plan to another weekend. Unfortunately, I was still having my cough and did not enjoy the water time with Yong Shuan. But I was happy in charged of snapping photos and changed him after he finished the swim.

After the 30min exercise, he fall sleep in the car seat on our way home and sleep soundly at night too.

We missed the mini train ride

2008-06-24T19:44:00.002+10:00

We wanted to bring Yong Shuan to ride the mini train near our house. We parked the car only then we realized it was not for the public last weekend. Someone has booked the ride for some private function. Yong Shuan was happy to see others enjoyed their ride. We have marked the date for the coming public ride day and will definitely bring Yong Shuan to experience the mini train.

Yong Shuan's first Piggy Bank & Toothbrush

2008-06-20T15:32:00.005+10:00

Finally, after 11 months, we opened a saving account in Australia for Yong Shuan. We went to this bank where they have this very cute looking piggy bank. We deposited all the Ang Pao uncles and aunties gave during his full moon and Chinese New Year celebration.

Can anyone guess the way to open this piggy bank? (hint: pink color)

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I went to chemist to get some medicines for hubby and found this toothbrush eye catching when I went down the baby aisle. It is specially designed to train baby to feel and get ready for the real toothbrush with toothpaste. Yong Shuan enjoyed very much on his first experience on toothbrush.

YS in the Park

2008-06-15T17:08:00.005+10:00

We brought Yong Shuan to the park today to let him try on the ride and the swing. I believe when he knows how to walk, it will be more fun chasing after him.

Home Cooking 5

2008-06-15T15:45:00.007+10:00

As okra is selling so expensive in Melbourne market, I hardly cook any okra dishes. (A$ 11.99/KG) I personally loved okra so much, but when it comes to $$, I would hold on to it and wait until I go back to Malaysia for okra dishes. I still remember the "Four Heavenly King" dish - 四大天王, a.k.a Stir Fried Sambal with Okra, Pedai, winged bean and long bean, which is so popular among the restaurants in Malaysia.

Finally, I bought some okra last week, around 20pcs costed me A$1.30 just for my Assam Fish Curry.

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Cousin YS handed me this recipe quite sometimes ago, finally I found time to try it out myself in Melbourne. It is one of the traditional dishes we used to cook during festive season especially the Reunion Chinese New Year Dinner. This dish used to be in charged by Grandma, has lately transfered to Uncle CM. Chinese call it "Lou" means cook with the herbs. I cook chicken feet, pork belly and egg this time. The traditional one that uncle cooks usually is using chicken and duck.

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YS's birthday is just near the corner. I have been practicing to make some cupcakes when I stay at home during the weekdays. Hopefully more practice will lead to a better taste of cupcake when the time comes. We still have not decided if we are going to hold a party for our boy however we definitely will prepare him a birthday cake and snap photos.

Rusk Biscuit ? Samurai Sword ?

2008-06-11T12:07:00.004+10:00

This is the first time I captured Yong Shuan fierce looking expression. He was grumpy when I disturbed him halfway while he was enjoying his rusk biscuit.

"Sorry, my dear!"

Yong Shuan's New Toy

2008-06-10T20:38:00.006+10:00

We got this 2 in 1 toy for Yong Shuan sometime last month. I knew about this toy from Toy's R Us catalog, it was on special for A$29.90. After a few catalog surfing in the internet, eventually we got ours from KMart at a cheaper price.

Yong Shuan is still not able to ride on this toy by himself, but he enjoy the ride when we give a little help pushing him around the hall. We observe when he is alone with the toy, he will try to explore all the gadgets in this toy especially those that can make sound.

Home Cooking 4

2008-06-09T09:22:00.003+10:00

Last Sunday was the DuanWu Festival in the Chinese Lunar Calendar. We used to celebrate this day with rice dumpling. Since we are away from home, we missed Malaysia rice dumpling so much especially the Nyonya taste one. I've cooked the symbolic glutinous rice for our dinner on that day to celebrate this festival.

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Hooray ! Last Monday was the Queen's Birthday, Public Holiday for all Melbourne resident. The supermarket had a few items on special just for this long weekend. And one of them is the lamb cutlet, I bought a pack and cook lamb at home for the first time since I came to Melbourne.

I made them into herb with garlic and the other with black pepper. Side dishes was the butter mushrooms and the mashed potatoes.

Home Cooking 3

2008-06-02T21:35:00.000+10:00

More home cooking from the home cooking series ....

From top to down : (1) Stir fried snake bean with XO sauce; (2) Salmon Fish; (3) Black Prompet with Salted Vege; (4) Spare Rib with Sour Plum Sauce (5) Golden Winglets

Day Care with Mummy....

2008-06-02T20:35:00.001+10:00

Every Wednesday and Friday I will stay home and spend wonderful time with Yong Shuan. Most of these times, I will play with my camera and learn to snap as many nice photos as I can. These are few of my top pick ones.

Picasa Web Albums

2008-06-02T10:18:00.002+10:00

Lately, I realized I can use Picasa Web Albums which is also another Google's site for my photo. I am tired to update a few different places every time I have new photos. Thinking to just centralize them. I tried Flickr which only allocates to non-paying user 200 photos, Multiply which also restricts the upload by month. I am still finding time to move all of them to one place. Perhaps Picasa is a good one. I welcome all suggestions, anyone, please share their experience, I wish to know more.

More Photos of Yong Shuan at 10th month

2008-06-02T08:26:00.002+10:00

When I put YS on this Ikea's stool, he will just sit there and awhile after that he start calling for help. Mmmm.... I need to teach him how to get down from this stool.

Took this picture when we had dinner with YY and Sam.
"Mummy, see, my sweater and uncle's both the small color!"

"ME" time with my rattle toy.

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-25T22:06:00.002+10:00

My first Mother's Day gift was a surprise from Yong Shuan's lovely carer in the Childcare Centre. They prepared the hand print of Yong Shuan and this poem.

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Here are my hands so tiny and small
For you to cherish until I grow tall,
Please watch us as the years go by
And see us grow, my hands and I.

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