♥ Behind-the-scenes of Lene's life ♥

Ladies, trust your own intuitions.

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:25:00 +0000

Would you continue to lie if you were caught being somewhere else from where you said you would be?

Would you rather lie than be truthful about where you are and what you had been doing in the first place, just because you are afraid that you might be misunderstood if you had been truthful? The IRONY and CONTRADICTION!

Why would someone say that 'let's do this and that', only to change his mind and say he has 'something' (meeting) on and that 'something' is drinking/chatting with friends. This definitely showed how much more important those people are right?

Would a normal person lie about such a simple thing in the first place? I really don't understand. If it's not to hide something that's meant to be kept in the dark, just speak the truth.

It's really a long story to begin with and thanks to the iPhone app, I would really be kept in the dark and probably gonna be played like a fool for another few more times after this incident.

Really have nothing else to say about it since it's so unbelievable. Kudos to friends who advise others to lie to their spouses. 'Friends'....ha~ Kiss. My. Ass.

2nd 喜事 at MBS

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:31:00 +0000

This is a very back-dated entry...

28 Jan 2012
Before attending Lingling's wedding, I had wanted to get a clutch before her big day. Thanks to Sandy, I got to know about Reebonz and within two weeks, I bought two bags from there. My pocket has already gotten a big hole at the beginning of this 2012!

I wouldn't really call these purchases an impulse because I wanted to use them specifically on different occasions and I think I won't really be buying any more bags for now. Will try my very best to save more money instead.

The bags were really very well-packed and they look so beautiful despite the size which was kinda too big, especially when they packed my clutch separately. I'm recycling the boxes by keeping my other bags in it. It would be a total waste just to throw them away like that.

Clutch & Cross-over body bag.

Must camwhore at least once before I leave the house. (Okay, make that a few times cuz of some bad shots)

Jasmine, Sandy and I then decided to meet up around 5.30pm - 5.40pm and thanks to Dan, we got there pretty early. We were there by 6.10pm, so we walked around the area just to kill time.

Our usher of the night - Ms Sandy

We took about two group photos with Sandy's phone and Kristin's iPhone, unfortunately, they were super blur no thanks to the lady who took for us. Grr...

Me with Tiffany & Jaslyn

Lingling's wedding was special because it's within the Lunar New Year period, so she hired a lion dance troupe. There's even a 财神爷 who went around to shake our hands. So cute!

Very sorry to the bride because most of the pix I took for her were either CMI or blur. Good thing Sandy took quite a lot of nice photos!

Jennifer brought her girls, Gabrielle and Giselle and we took quite a lot of pictures together.

Must camwhore with the BFF!

Some pictures with the two super adorable sisters.

LOL

Halfway through the dinner, Giselle came over to sit between Sandy and me. It's a good thing I have a small butt cuz she just squeeze in with me and she looks comfy enough.

Tying a ribbon on her wrist here

Kinda ruined the last pic cuz I'm holding the camera

The dinner ended about 11-ish and we had an enjoyable night. Really happy for the newly-weds: Alan and Lingling. May the couple stay blissful and happy always!

Rules for Marriage

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 02:52:00 +0000

After the last dinner with my babes (DSC, Geri, Jialin and Sandy), DSC mentioned about how great the book called 'The Rules' was, all of us (except Geri because she wasn't there when we were discussing about it) wanted to get our hands on it.

Maybe because this book was first published in 1996, we had a hard time finding it in the book stores but thanks to Jialin, we have ordered the books online and I'm looking forward to receiving the books in another two weeks time.

DSC asked me to order 'All The Rules' for Joey while I ordered two copies of The Rules for Marriage for both Sandy and myself.

Out of the #43 rules, I was eager to read what the authors have to say about the following rules that I saw on the content page.

#3 - Keep up your looks - but don't go crazy

#7 - Give him 15 minutes alone when he comes home

#12 - Rarely return his gifts

#22 - Don't hang on his every word

#24 - He can say anything about his family but you can't

#33 - Don't expect applause for doing chores

#34 - Don't nag

#35 - Don't find fault with things you knew about when you married him

While reading reviews from people who've read this book, I agree about not following all the rules since not all would be applicable in every marriage. Take it with a pinch of salt and if possible, read other self-help books on similar subjects.

One of them even recommended a book 'The Five Love Languages' that I like though I've yet to start reading the copy (compilation of 5 Love Languages of Children & Teenagers) that I got last year. Think I better start reading so I will understand his love languages better though I roughly guessed what they are.

Perhaps you can also take this small assessment to see what your family's and even your love languages are!

Another splurge

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 07:39:00 +0000

Went for facial today with nana and throughout the time while my face was getting cleaned, I was preparing my 'excuse' on how I should reject signing a package if I was asked to after the session.

Unfortunately, I succumbed to it because I thought, since I am going to make sure that I go for facials from next month onwards because my complexion is kinda chui these days, I might as well sign for a package (six times only).

I hope I will not let my monthly installment of $198 go to waste like I did with my STUPID hair packages with JEAN YIP! F*** those packages that cost me about 6K! Rawr!

That aside, I was spending some time going through my previous posts cuz I'm trying to re-label them and I think I had a lot of good memories, especially when my walk with Him was still strong.

I really need to recall back those days when I felt truly blessed and happy as a Christian.

Even like the other night (on Thursday) when we had Lou Hei with Cg members. I felt so blessed because William was there and we hardly get to meet each other since we don't really go to Cg or church that often these days. (me lazy; he busy)

Then everyone were chatting about trips, IT stuff and I decided to ask him about cameras and I've been thinking about getting either a Nikon 1 or Olympus Pen Mini and eventually, I've made up my mind about Nikon 1 because William shared some insights and had a good lobang!

Well, to cut the long story short, he offered to help check with his colleagues if they're able to help me get a camera at a good price and well, one of them is going to help me, so I'm psyched!

Just hope that everything will go smoothly so I can get this by mid March, just before my supposedly Taipei trip commences. We've yet to book airline tix and hotels, so not sure if this will come to pass, but if it doesn't, I'll save this money for my Korea trip with Sandy instead.

I'd look forward to the latter more because Dan will be around to accompany Gabriel so I don't have to worry or miss him that much. not. Think the fewer people there is, the easier it is to book though more company means more fun also. But the booking and liaising part before confirming everything is more tedious and troublesome I guess.

Please let both trips come to pass and I'll be happy that I've travelled in 2012 without expecting more trips (till next year).

Joker sial

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 01:26:00 +0000

This cracked me up for a minute while I was having a crappy day at work. It's the start of another closing and I've yet to blog about Lingling's wedding and my impulsive buys at Reebonz.

Just for memories sake, I need to note down what Gabe did on Sunday night that made me go aww...

29 Jan 12 (11.45pm)
We were preparing for bed and it was dark. I thought he was into his sudden cranky mood when he got on his knees and bowed down his head cuz he would sit elsewhere and look down whenever he's unhappy (that happens in a split second if he's temperamental).

I got up and wanted to ask him what's wrong when I heard him saying 'I must be good boy. Cannot cry. Amen.' with his fingers clasped. I thought I heard wrongly so I said 'what did you just say?' and he repeated it again.

So sweet lah~. And it melted my heart because it shows that he had been listening to me whenever I told him that I don't really like it when he starts throwing tantrums for no reason or rhyme and that usually caught us off-guard and makes us go 'wth!?!'

I had to make a super short note of this moment before I go to bed in my iphone lest I forget.

Okay, I have to stop here. Hope I can clear my closing and other work and start blogging post-dated entries before I decide give those entries a pass because I'm lazy.

10 Things That Are More Important Than Discipline.

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:30:00 +0000

Saw this from FB and actual link was from here. I thought this would be good for my own reference as well as fellow parents who might be interested to know about these 10 things too. It would be worth the read even though this post might seem a little lengthy. Trust me.

Parenting is a very complex task. If we're not careful, we will become too focused on one aspect and let the others fall by the wayside. Many times, I see parents who are intently focused on discipline, and I'm talking about the traditional use of the word here with regard to modifying behavior. Sometimes we get very caught up in "What do I do when..." or "How do I get my kid to..." and we lose sight of the bigger picture.

The truth is that there are many things that are more important in shaping our children than the methods and techniques we use to modify their behavior.

Here are 10 things that are more important than any method you choose, in no particular order.

1. Relationship. The relationship that we have with our children is the single biggest influence on them. Our relationship sets an example for how relationships should be throughout the rest of their lives. If we have a healthy relationship based on respect, empathy, and compassion, we have set a standard. They will grow to expect that this is what a relationship looks like and will likely not settle for less. If, however, our relationship is based on control, coercion, and manipulation, well you see where I'm going with this.

In addition to that, our influence comes from a good relationship. Children are more likely to listen to and cooperate with an adult who they are connected to. In other words, if we build trust and open communication when they are small, they will come to us when they are not so small. Our attachment helps wire healthy brains, and our responses set the tone for how they respond to us (they're little mirrors).

2. Your lens. When you look at your child, who do you see? Do you see the positives or the negatives? The way you think about them influences the way you treat them. Your thoughts also influence the way you feel emotionally and physically throughout the day. "He is in the terrible twos" will cause you to look for terrible things, to focus on them, and therefore try to correct them...constantly. Try to turn negative thoughts like this into positive thoughts, like, "He is inquisitive and fun!" Try to start seeing misbehavior as a clue that calls for help rather than something that needs squashed immediately. Correction is not needed nearly as often as you might think.

Also watch your tone and language. "Be mindful of the language you use to describe your children. They will come to see themselves through that filter you design." -Lori Petro, TEACH Through Love. Be careful not to place labels such as "naughty" or "clumsy" on your child. They will come to see themselves the way you see them.

3. Your relationship with your significant other. Your kids are watching and learning. The way you and your partner treat each other again sets a standard. Happy parents make happy kids. Read How Your Marriage Affects Your Kids.

The foundation of a happy family is a strong, loving relationship between the two of you. The single, most important thing that you can do for your children is to do everything in your power to have the best possible relationship with your spouse. If they see the two of you getting along and supporting each other, they will mirror you and will likely get along with each other and their friends. Every single ounce of energy that you put into your relationship will come back to you tenfold through your children.

4. The atmosphere of your home. All of the things mentioned above come together to create the atmosphere in your home. If you have loving and connected relationships, you likely have a warm atmosphere in your home. If there is discord between you and your spouse, or you and your child, or your child and your other child, then the overall atmosphere will suffer. Have you ever gone to someone's home and could just feel a negative atmosphere? You want your home to be a haven, a safe, warm, inviting, and loving place for all family members. Dorothy Parker said, "The best way to keep children home is to make the home atmosphere pleasant--and let the air out of the tires." You don't have to let the air out until they're 16 though. ;-)

5. How you relate to others. How do you treat the bank teller, the store clerk, the telemarketer? What about your parents and your in-laws? They are watching your example. “Setting an example is not the main means of influencing another, it is the only means.” -Albert Einstein

6. Community. Are you involved in your community. Aside from setting an example, there are valuable lessons to be learned from volunteering, supporting a local cause, attending church, or donating items. Seeing a bigger picture, how their acts can influence many lives, will give them a sense of responsibility and reinforce good values.

7. School. Whether you choose private school, public school, homeschooling, or unschooling, your choice will have an impact on your child. Choose with care. Peers have a big influence on children, but if our relationship is where it should be, our influence will still be stronger.

8. Your cup. How full is it? You have to take care of you so you can take care of them. If your cup is full, you are more patient, more empathetic, and have more energy. Not only that, but a child who sees his parents respect themselves learns to have self-respect. Put yourself back on your list.

9. Media. Television. Video games. Social media. They are always sending messages to your kids. Now, I let my kids watch TV and play computer games, so I'm not taking a big anti-media stance here, but just be aware of what your kids are getting from what they're watching. My son said something out of character for him a while back that came directly from a cartoon character. I knew where he'd gotten it and we had a talk about the differences between cartoon land and the real world. I'm just glad they don't have a Facebook account yet!

10. Basic needs. Adequate nutrition, sleep, and exercise are not only essential for the well-being of your child but also influence behavior. Dr. Sears addresses nutrition here. Also read this article, Sleep Better for Better Behavior. Finally, Exercise helps children learn to focus their attention, limit anger outburst and improve motor skills. Read more about that here.

“If I had my child to raise all over again, I’d build self-esteem first, and the house later. I’d finger-paint more, and point the finger less. I would do less correcting and more connecting. I’d take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes. I’d take more hikes and fly more kites. I’d stop playing serious, and seriously play. I would run through more fields and gaze at more stars. I’d do more hugging and less tugging.“ - Diane Loomans

Cat text

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:07:00 +0000

This is kinda funny. Think most of us can feel how irritated the receiver felt and this reminded me of the messages I received from Citibank. Why would they allow cancellation requests to take effect within 10 working days?

Made me sent the request at least three times. Irritating...

春到河畔

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:58:00 +0000

Dan wanted to check out the River Hongbao (CNY Carnival located at The Float @ Marina Bay). Think he was mainly interested in the rides which turned out to be a disappointment. We even drove back home from work so I could change into something more comfy - jeans and tees which wasn't quite necessary since we hadn't gone on any rides eventually.

Had dinner Kenny Rogers in Marina Square. Felt so good to have a full meal though I was wondering if it would be too heavy for rides later.

a simple but fantastic meal

I think Dan and I could only ride bumper cars and go on a spinning ride since the rest were mainly for kids. Gone were the days where there would be many fun and exciting rides where Nana and I would spend lots of money going on those rides at least twice or thrice.

Those really brought back fond memories even though I recalled almost puking after going on those super scary rides after a heavy meal on a particular night. It's really enjoyable when you get to have such fun with friends and siblings who are into such rides as well.

Since there weren't anything for us to do, we just walked around the place.

We bought a couple of souvenirs from there as well before we left and that kinda sums up our night.

A closer shot of the stuff I've chosen. They were a dollar each.

These chopsticks were also sold at dollar per pair. Specifically chose both our surnames: 朱 and 袁. I'm very proud of my surname because it's considered unique.

4 朱s for Dan's family and 1 袁 for myself.

I have quite a few pairs of chopsticks now but I don't seem to use them whenever I ought to - replacing disposable ones because they're not very environmental-friendly and mainly because they stink too. I must always remember the 3 Rs - Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Let's all help save the earth whenever we can ok?

'Last day' of CNY

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:25:00 +0000

It's back to work for most of the people tomorrow and I'm trying not to be envious about Dan having a super long holiday till the 1st of February. Eric and Dolly are on their way to Korea right now during this long break from work, can I say that I'm super envious?

I've gotten a couple of pictures ready for posting already. Good to use both iPhone and camera to take photos since I can collage the pix beforehand. Only need to collage those taken with my camera after I complete my work tomorrow. =p

During these two days of CNY, I only visited three homes. Not including my mom's and in-laws' place. It's kinda sad that this tradition of visitation no longer holds any special meaning to me after the demise of my loved ones. I'd rather slack the days away or go elsewhere where it would probably be more meaningful and fun.

Of course, reunion dinner(s) is a must and I wouldn't break this tradition at all.

Right now, I'm thinking about one house that I've visited this afternoon. It belongs to Mr Chang Long Jong (Deputy CEO of MediaCorp) and I had the chance to check out the place when he showed us around. So nice lor! I only took three pix because it's not so nice to go around taking pictures of his house.

Will share more about how I got this chance tomorrow.

Closing thought: Would you lend a friend 10K if he's trying to use that money to recoup his losses? I know I wouldn't. Sometimes I don't understand how guys draw the lines in their friendship/brotherhood. All I can say is well-explained here.

2012 初一 & 初二

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:12:00 +0000

Our program for 初一 is:

Go PIL's house first to 拜年, 2) go over to mom's place, 3) go Kam Po's house, then 4) head to AMK for the reunion dinner.

Gabe's outfit of the day

Frankly speaking, we didn't buy any new year's clothes for him and since he hasn't worn this top before though it's been in the closet for a long time, we made him wear that and I'm glad it still fits!

Anyway, after visiting my PIL, we headed to my mom's after dropping my in-laws at Kranji cuz they wanted to go JB to visit their relatives. As usual, we I decided to take some pictures and MIL commented on how Gabe would look a lot better when I'm taking his pictures as compared to her attempts.

All I can say is : Practice makes perfect!

Upon arrival at mom's house, we saw Dom. My goodness, the last time we saw him was about three years ago and he's grown to be a really fine boy! Super fluent in Mandarin obviously because his mom is from China.

Very cute and soft-spoken though Uncle George said that he's very active and couldn't stop playing from day till night. The age gap between these two kids is only a year but there's quite a big difference already.

I heard Adeline telling Nana to go take pix together in the room, so I went to join them. How can they leave me out?!? Sometimes I still can't believe Nana and I are twins while Adeline is ten years our junior...

Adeline's suggestion to use this template.

Then Gabriel decided to join us.

Reached Yishun and spent about two hours there before heading to AMK. Missed Hachi so much and he was too well-behaved that day - hardly moved around unlike before. But Elynn said he's usually more hyper when we weren't there, so maybe he knows when to 'act' well-behaved?

Gabriel was totally involved in our Lou Hei. He was bent on showing me that he managed to pick up the food and though he didn't quite like the taste of it, he made sure he tried a few times before giving up totally. That's my boy! ^^

To sum up this day, Gabe totally missed out on his nap. When we left at 8plus, we changed him into his pajamas at mom's place and true enough, he slept on our way home and totally knocked-out when I placed him on his bed.

Shiok man...first time sleep so early (about 9pm). Dan and I then ended our night after watching TV.

.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

初二
Supposed to go to a cousin's place from mom's side but FIL said we were invited to one of his church mate's house. Actually this beautiful house belongs to Mr Chan and I have to mention about his wife who showed a lot of concern when I was hospitalised two years ago.

It's kinda hard to imagine or believe that she's wealthy because she's super down-to-earth. There were two other ladies who came to visit/prayed and chat with me and I'm very touched, even till now because they made the effort when I don't even know them at all.

I was wondering if I could get to see any MediaCorp artistes by chance (in case they come visiting) but too bad don't have. Anyway, I was totally awed by the house's design and think it's really darn beautiful!

Anyway, Gabe was so naughty the moment we stepped in - don't want to go in la; throw tantrums; this cannot, that cannot. Really cannot tahan.

So glad this day is over though we didn't even do much except putting up with Gabe's crankiness there. Enough remaining time to rest before starting work tomorrow. *Phew*

I love reunion dinners

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 07:41:00 +0000

The Lunar New Year is approaching and as usual, we'll be having our reunion dinners before the actual day approaches. Had the first dinner with my mom and family on Saturday; 2nd with my in-laws and 3rd with my relatives at AMK.

Failed attempt to make it a .gif

I like this hehe

Actual 除夕夜. Mother sure put in a lot of effort to prepare everything.

3rd reunion dinner at AMK. This was on the first day of CNY but I've added the pix in this entry instead.

Gabriel kept talking about wanting to visit Hachi when I showed him past pictures of him with Hachi taken quite some time ago. Gabe was afraid of him, yet wanting to play at the same time made him oh-so-adorable. Especially whenever we frighten him by saying 'Hachi's coming', he'd scurry off to climb on the chair or jump onto someone's arms.

I'm not exactly a fan of yu sheng but it seems like this year's yu sheng were all very tasty.

Hope everyone will really huat in this Lunar New Year!

Amazed at Gabriel's changes

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 01:52:00 +0000

Gabe has shown a tremendous change in his attitude towards school recently and I'm very thankful to God. I have to thank MIL for taking the time and thinking of saying prayers aloud with Gabe to make him feel less fearful about going to school and all I can say is "Prayers Work!"

I'm very happy about this change and I know his new school teachers contributed some part as well since they must have been nicer to the children as compared to the previous school teacher. Nonetheless, we have to continue keeping them all in prayers daily.

I'm also glad that I can have proper conversations with him where he would listen and answer me like he's all grown up in his little body. We have to make sure that we speak proper English so he's able to speak well like what those educational TV programs has been teaching him on our behalf as well.

He never fails to amaze me with new words and sentences though the other day we taught him to say KNS and it was hilarious.

Loving this baby of mine even more each day though he gets on my nerves when he misbehaves every once in a while. Children are indeed gifts from God and I'm thankful for this wonderful gift!

p.s Dan bought him a pair of shades meant for kids at Camouflage last night. He used to dislike wearing them but now he's enjoying it.

Taken last night (19 Jan 12)

Taken this morning (20 Jan 12)

Counting down in KL 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 09:26:00 +0000

Okay, this is a backdated post since I finally have time to blog about it. Hope you guys enjoy reading it! ;)

New Year's Eve
Woke up at 4am and we're supposed to leave at 4.30am. I'm surprised that I do not feel tired despite having about three - four hours of sleep. Only felt a little sad to leave Gabriel while he's sleeping so soundly...snuck off without saying goodbye to my sweet baby.

Did a little quick shopping at DFS before our flight at 7am. Actually, I only got myself and Sandy an eye-cream cuz I thought I could continue the shopping upon our return. Got so disappointed because the budget terminal only has one small miserable-looking DFS. Didn't get anything eventually because nothing interest me.

The flight was fast. Took about 25-40 minutes to arrive in KLIA. We weren't quite used to the airport, so we spent quite a while finding our way out of the departure hall. The shops at KLIA are pretty impressive too. I kinda like the Victoria Secret shop. A lot of nice stuff to check out, but it's not exactly very cheap after conversion to SGD.

The journey back to Dan's relatives' house took about forty-five minutes to an hour. We were kinda tired but we went for lunch then started our shopping spree at KLCC and Pavilion. I think we walked too much that day though we didn't really buy a lot of stuff.

I was hoping that we could countdown at Zouk and I hadn't got anything suitable to wear, so I went to get a top from Guess. Think that cost me about SGD90 *heartbleed* and I didn't get to wear it at all because:

1) we heard that there would be large crowds around Pavilion and Sungei Wang area, thus traffic jam would be expected.

2) I actually got so tired after all the walking that I plopped into bed at 10pm, only to be woken up by the sounds of fireworks around the area, but I was super lazy to wake up and watch the fireworks from Wen Han's room.

It's a pity that we couldn't countdown at both Zouk and Skybar. It's quite ridiculous that a table for 6 at Skybar costs RM4,000. The view is fantastic but I doubt anyone of us would wanna spend that kinda money that night. Even the fireworks wouldn't be worth that much though I don't deny how beautiful that will be.

Slept the night away until the late morning...

1 Jan 2012
We went back to the same places - Pavilion, Sungei Wang and Berjaya Times Square. The sun was scorching hot but it beats walking around in the rain. Did another round of shopping but I ended up with a hair curler from Korea that cost me about SGD53 and some tops. No more RM left already...

Wen Kai suggested that we go to this place called 'Look Out Point' that's about fifteen minutes drive away from their house. I think that was the highlight of my trip. The view was far more beautiful than the similar view that I had from Mount Faber.

Only rant I had about the place was the blue lights emitting from the tower that made us blue in most of the photos.

I thought it's pretty cute to see the 'encouragement' on the steps while we make our way up to the top.

There were various restaurants located within the vicinity. Thai, Arab, Western cuisine, etc...

The Panorama Restaurant looks more like a haunted house in a themepark. The viewing tower is right beside this restaurant.

We then began to snap pictures before leaving the place.

Can you imagine the spectacular view on NYE when the fireworks are are lighting up the sky? I heard that there would be at least three places where there would be fireworks display and I guess people are smart enough to come to this viewing tower that night since Joanne wanted to bring Stella, Lance and Wen Kai here but the roads were jammed halfway before they could even get to bottom of the hill.

Okay, maybe next year, we can try our luck. Or go elsewhere to count down instead. I'll be a lot more prepared by then!

without flash

The big boys

Group pic

We look pretty okay in this picture despite the blues

Wen Kai with the Twin Towers in his palm.

I'm amazed at how tall and fast these boys grow (you'll know what I mean later)

Last day

Woke up at 5am this time because the taxi will be arriving at 5.30am. Our flight is 7.40am but this has gotta be the worst start of my day. Joanne made breakfast for us and though we thought it's okay that even if we're not two hours early for the check-in, we should be able to make it on time as long as we check-in thirty minutes earlier.

Bad move. It's okay that we had to rush like we're on the Amazing Race, what's bad for me was that I feel like I'm going to LS but I'm in the cab, so throughout the journey, I had to endure and pray hard that the pain/feeling would go away.

The feeling came on and off until we got to the airport. It was about 6.20am, I thought we made it and there was time to spare for me to do my business until we realised that the check-in counter for Tiger Airways was at another terminal. FOL.

We rushed to get a taxi and shit la, cannot just flag and get in like we normally do in Singapore. Had to pay and book a taxi at the counter then can. The trip to the budget terminal took another fifteen minutes or so cuz the driver drove quite slowly and we were quite panicky throughout the journey while enduring the foul stench emitting from god-knows-where inside the cab.

The gancheongness made my tummy forgot about its business and we ran around upon arrival to search for the check-in counter. Thank God it's still open and we didn't miss our flight! Had to walk another five to eight minutes to the airplane which was at the furthest end of the terminal. Kaoz, *great morning exercise*

We thought we were the last passengers to board the plane, only to see other people taking their time to board after us. The plane didn't set off until about 8.10am because we had to wait for two missing passengers who were supposed to sit beside Lance. N.B.

Stella was so nice to switch places with me so I got the window seat this time round. Had a nice time checking out the view and before we know it, we landed in Singapore.

I guess despite not being able to countdown to 2012 in a super happening way. I did enjoy this trip thanks to Stella and the hospitality of the Ow family. It's been about six wonderful years since I got to meet this family while I was still dating Dan back then.

As usual, I always like to remind myself how much the kids have grown with this picture. I swear my face is rounder as well but that's not the main point.

I also managed to take pictures of some photos that he had in his room during their last trip to Singapore when they went to MBS while I'm working. Gabriel looks so cute and happy...I could literally feel their love for my boy and I know that Gabriel was in good hands when they were together.

Thank God for blessing me with the best extended families (in Malaysia) that I could ever ask for.

I need more time to blog

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 04:22:00 +0000

I'm finally done with closing and I'm almost losing all my 'thoughts' on what I wanted to blog from the moment I set foot at the airport for my KL trip till the day I got back.

If only I'm hardworking to pen down my thoughts when I felt 'inspired' to blog, but the words just run through my mind and I had to wait till a time like this - when all the important tasks at work are finally completed, and having some time to sort out whatever random feelings and thoughts I have right now.

I've yet to start on keying other work that's been pending since 3rd Jan but I'm glad to say that I no longer feel that stressful as compared to the first four days of every month.

I did not take as many pictures as I should during my stay in KL. Especially the fireworks part...I will blog about those days and other random stuff in my next post.

Despite feeling that I hadn't end my 2011 with a bang, neither did I really start 2012 the way I hoped as well, I'm glad to say that things are somewhat improving. I really want to make 2012 a better year and the first thing I need to change is my mindset before anything else is possible.

Whatever things that caused misery and heartache last year is best forgotten. If I continue to stay bitter and engulf myself in hate, the only person who's suffering is me, not him. Perhaps like what DSC said, "Remember ok, as long as both of you is in love and respect each other, there's nothing in this world you can't work out".

Guess 2012 will be considered a better year since my 2011 wasn't that fantastic. Gotta stay positive!

In the meantime, I'll buck up in completing my work so I can find time to blog and upload pix. ^^

Geeky Gabriel

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 07:31:00 +0000

Gabriel amused Dan and myself when he played around with my specs. I wish I had wiped the lens thoroughly before taking the pix cuz I've been trying really hard to remove the lens but failed. Nonetheless, it was fun to see how Gabe entertained us both with this dirty specs.

是脏到~!

Back to school

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 07:23:00 +0000

It's a good thing that we only start work on the 4th. That means we don't have to take any morning or whole day leave to send our kids to school on their very first day.

This was meant to be tucked out...silly me

Thank God Gabriel didn't make things difficult for me on this day. I almost thought he wouldn't allow me to put on his school uniform but I'm glad to say everything went pretty well on the first day probably because I was with him throughout the orientation that took at most, forty-five minutes.

Brought him to JP's MacDonald's for brunch and he's a happy kid. I think I hardly bring him out this far on my own and it can be pretty tiring. Now I only hope he'll make things easy for my MIL since she'll be the one bringing him to school from tomorrow onwards. God, please let him enjoy school as much as possible and overcome his fear soon~.

Last day of work for 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 08:34:00 +0000

Though our company holiday started a little late this year, leaving us only two days to enjoy ourselves but I guess it's better than having no company off at all. ^^

I'm pretty happy at work, having tasks and colleagues to distract myself from the unhappiness at home. I wouldn't really call it unhappiness, but somehow, I just can't bring myself to forgive and forget that person at this moment. The feeling is unlike before where I'd resume to my normal self in one or two days. Though it's only been four days but the feeling is still as intense as before.

Too bad for him.

She called me up yesterday and today, telling me to forgive him since he has shown signs of repentance. I don't know if I should feel happy that he finally wise-up after her words or it simply showed that what I've said in the past have fallen into deaf ears as usual.

Anyway the changes I see seems to be temporary so it's only a matter of time before his old habits kick in again. There's a reason why people say 'old habits die hard' and 'a leopard never changes his spots'. I've seen quite a few of such life examples anyway.

You might say I should be fair and give that person time to change. How much time? One year or two? I believe if the person wants to break his old habits like paying bills on time, etc, he would jolly well do it if his attitude towards clearing what's owed immediately changes. If that attitude doesn't change, no amount of nagging or giving him time to change will make any difference.

Anyway, that's just an example. I don't really bother about this any more though this was one of the issues that was bothering me back then. Numbness really helps after realizing that nagging or helping out with part of the household payments isn't effective after all.

Another day to go before my supposedly trip to KL arrives. 99% of me is very reluctant to go. I rather stay in sg alone than force myself to go to KL and act like I'm going to enjoy myself when I totally have no mood to do anything - much less give a cheerful face when I feel like crap on the inside.

Unfortunately, I foresee myself going on that trip because the two ladies asked me to. I couldn't help writing another message to him and telling him not to expect that everything is back to normal just because I'm going. Things have changed unlike before and I reckon it'll take quite a while for me to change my attitude and thoughts that have been dominating my mind over the past few days.

Perhaps I would be able to say that I ended 2011 well in the company of others over there. Will be missing Gabriel for sure and hopefully, I will welcome and start thinking positive about 2012 for once.

My thoughts on 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 09:02:00 +0000

December has pretty much been a crappy month for me despite being a festive month of giving and sharing. Things happened that I wish I could just post on my blog but I have decided to just blog and save them as drafts instead.

Even if those issues were to resolve within the next few days (which I doubt), I will keep them as reminders about the shit that person put me through and yeah, I'm one who don't forgive and forget that easily.

I don't really have that much good stuff that I remember happening this 2011 except my decision to do braces and the extractions I went through made me feel glad that all those were long over and done with. I shall look forward to 2012/13 where I'll be able to say goodbye to the braces even though it's been quite a memorable journey.

Throughout my ups and downs in 2011, I just wanna say thanks to friends who've been patient and supportive when I vented my rants and frustrations through a particular sharing. Their support gives me the strength to stay strong so I won't fall into depression that easily.

What doesn't kill me only makes me stronger and I think after every stupid fall I experienced, I'm learning to cope with it though the last fall literally made me feel sick after it happened. Will be prepared for his next attack now.

Anyway, I guess despite feeling angry 24/7 these few days (unless I'm in deep sleep), I will not let him ruin the rest of my life or days to come. People say trials and tribulations are common in marriages but when this kinda shit happens not just once, twice or thrice, you know that things aren't going to change unless something drastic happens.

I'm making that happen now and whether it backfires or not, so be it. What matters most is changing my own mentality to be stronger and indifferent to whatever's going to happen in future.

Hope I can succeed and not go soft-hearted eventually.

Candlelight service 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 09:04:00 +0000

It's been many months since I've stepped into the auditorium and attended service. I'm glad to attend this candlelight service with Shawna, who reserved seats for both Dan and myself when it's almost fully occupied.

It'll look really beautiful once the lights go out and candles lit...

I wonder if the others started to feel excited when they passed around the candles.

The candles started lighting up though the sharing of other people's lighted candle. Pastor asked us to refrain from using our own lighters...if we have. Haha. He also told us to feel free to take as many photos as we like because it's gonna be a beautiful sight.

I think it's been too long since I've been to church, and I've not been attending a proper service until today, so I don't feel as touched unlike the past candlelight services that I've attended. Nonetheless, I think it's a special service - singing Christmas songs in a worship manner.

Another few more days to Christmas, hope everyone else has completed their Christmas shopping and Merry Christmas in advance!

Sumitomo D&D 2011 - Colors of Asia

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 09:11:00 +0000

I enjoyed myself tonight and I think the emcee did a pretty good job but ultimately, it was those sporting people who were called on stage made the whole event a success.

The only thing I wanna rant about is my hairstyle. Went to kimage thinking I could have a neat bun but ended up having a bun that looked kinda like a bird's nest. The moment I got home from the salon, my bun was beginning to fall apart.

When I got to the hotel, I saw my fellow 'koreans' and saw how neat and nice their hairstyles were. Made me so envious and I think I should just have braided my hair myself instead. Damn...but no point crying over spilled milk.

Oh ya, apart from that, I don't know why my braces were super obvious tonight though it wasn't quite visible as compared to those pix taken during Jacqueline's wedding. I really don't know how to smile properly without showing teeth and now I can't wait for the day when I can remove the braces...

The night was FULL of ~~ugly~~ candid shots (both taken by colleague's camera or my own), there's only a handful that I liked. I'll be posting most of them nonetheless because the rest looked nice, so I mustn't be selfish. hahaha.

There weren't much activities to do before the event starts. Wrote our names at this station only to know that the lady wasn't able to finish up all the names and left when her time was up. Oh well, no biggie~

We then took quite a lot of pictures whenever we had the chance to...even during the dinner, we'd go out to take group pix since we were sitting at different tables.

Joyce, myself and Sandy

Taken from Lingling's camera

Sandra, Casey, myself and Sandy

Nicholas attracted the most attention and he's so sporting and funny. He gives a straight face for poses readily and well, Sandy and Christina had to help him out when his glasses got caught in his wig. LOL

Posing with Goto and Shindo san

I think my colleagues were very lucky to win prizes tonight. The grand prize also went to one of our guys here...so sad that I hadn't won anything man.

Okay, enjoy the rest of the pix...

Us with Goto san (she's so cute)

More pix taken with Lingling's camera.

Sandy, Lingling and Goto san

That's all folks!

Jacqueline's big day

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 08:59:00 +0000

My title pretty much sums up what this day is all about and I'm as happy as the newly-weds because of the company and also being able to meet Joanna there after such a long time. Think it was more than a year or two since I've last met her already.

First and foremost, very thankful to Weixuan who came to pick Jasmine, Sandy and myself up. She also sent us back home safely. So cool, really like tai-tai...

We arrived slightly past 6.30pm, just in time for her solemnisation. Jacqueline is so pretty and her makeup is very natural.

After that, we headed down to the ballroom area and took pictures before the dinner started.

Boon wanted to take a picture of our tattoos so while he was taking that in front of us, I thought I'd do the same as well.

Had to crop myself out here. Nic & Sandy has dazzling smiles here. *ting ting*

My fave pic ^^

More with my BFF ^^

It was pretty tiring after the wedding dinner ended but still enjoyable. Really glad to be invited to this wedding and hope that Jacqueline and Eric will stay blissful always!

Preparation for Sumitomo D&D 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:47:00 +0000

Sandy and I went to rent our costumes from No. 1 Costume on the 14th of Nov and I'm pretty excited to find a costume that fits me despite it being a M size. What is that you ask? A Hanbok! \^.^/

So nice!

Our theme for this year is "Colors of Asia", which encourages us to dress up in our favourite ethnic costume, so the first and only thing that came to mind is a Hanbok because I'm Kpop-siao.

T-ara

SHINee

Sandy eventually chose a Hanbok as well because of the limited choice of other costumes that was suitable for the theme and I'm glad we're dressing similar this year!

I think it's super because 1) it's baggy - no need to worry about bulging tummy showing; 2) hair and makeup - simple one will do; 3) shoes - can wear anything under the skirt, no need heels! Can imagine the comfort unless it's not easy sitting on the chair with the pong-pong skirt.

Apart from all these, it's the first time I'm really dressing up for the theme, so I'm feeling excited about it. It would be perfect if Dan could rent a costume for himself so we can be more compatible but seeing his pattern, I doubt he'd be interested to do that. Guess he'll have to go without a costume then.

Hopefully this year's D&D will be fun since some of our colleagues won't be joining us. :( May we win good prizes as well. Huat ah!

Moving out thoughts

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 03:41:00 +0000

Dan has been trying to psycho me into selling our flat since we're able to sell our current place next year. I've never really had plans to move out since I'm pretty happy with our crib but after looking at the floor plans and what Dan has in mind for our next place, I'm secretly welcoming that idea as well.

We were looking at the Centris initially since the location is pretty fantastic but Dan said that it would be better and somewhat cheaper to get a new condo somewhere in Lakeside. So he's been focusing on The Lakefront and The Caspian.

The Caspian has this dual-key unit that is good for two families who are living together. The floor plan looks wonderful, especially if one decides to lease of the other side of the house for rent. Though the whole area of the place is a little smaller than our current place, I thought it'll be cool to live in a smaller place so I wouldn't be tempted to use spare rooms as a hoarding place like the nursery room that I'm having now - which is in a messy state because of the clothes that couldn't fit in our walk-in wardrobe.

Now that we're entertaining thoughts of moving out, it will not be easy convincing his parents and well, we have to start counting the cost and see if we could afford that as well. But this is something to strive for in 2012. I shall leave the calculations and planning part to Dan since I'm terrible with numbers and I don't know much about selling and buying another place.

Hopefully God will continue to bless us and make this dream come to pass somehow. I couldn't shrug away the thoughts on 'building His church first and watch Him help with mine' these days though. Need to meditate about it...

Matthew 6:33
But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

Ecclesiastes 3:1
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.

Proverbs 19:21
Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.

Snip!

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 05:44:00 +0000

When Dan wants something done, he'll get it done ASAP - same goes for cutting Gabriel's hair when he wouldn't allow ANYONE to cut off his hair back then. Even his mother got chided for snipping a bit of Gabe's hair because it was quite long about two month's ago.

He wanted to bring Gabe to a salon in JP but the stylist was busy so I said go back another day. But Dan brought him to another salon at Pioneer Mall a couple of hours later. *rolls eyes* Cannot wait another day???

I don't know what kinda style he wanted since Gabe's hair is so fine. He told the stylist 'layers' and somehow I think the final hairstyle wasn't quite what he had in mind. It looked a little like mushroom head to me except that the back part was still long.

He was quite well-behaved though he moved around a little. His expressions were kinda cute as he looked a little uneasy and wondered what the hairdresser was doing. I kinda enjoyed trimming his hair myself at home because he would just sit still and let me do my thing. I had to explain my actions so he would understand and not be afraid of salon visits in future - like today.

After the trim, I think he bo feeling but we hope he will feel less warm and better that his hair wouldn't be poking his eyes or flying around his face this time. ^^

Good job in cooperating with the hairdresser, Gabriel!

Emo over poop accident

noreply@blogger.com (Shirlene) — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 07:49:00 +0000

Gabe was in the bathroom doing his business while I was reading my book when I thought I heard him saying "I'm sorry, Mummy" on repeat mode.

I went to check him out and saw that his urinal cover from his potty cushion had fallen into the toilet bowl (together with his poo) and heaving a sigh, I counted to five and he just continued to say "I'm sorry Mummy" while looking sorry and a little afraid.

It's not a big deal though I kinda looked serious to see how sorry he is. Got him off the seat, wiped his cute little backside and pretended to ask if he could take it out for me when it's all dirty already and without a second thought, he actually wanted to reach in to retrieve it.

I don't know why but I just felt touched and probably thought he would say No and shrug away like it's none of his business. It also occurred to me that either he didn't know that his poop was smelly and dirty, or he just wanted to please me and take it out because he knows he's responsible for dropping it in the first place.

It seems like he has really grown up these days since he's pretty sensible and we could really see that he's able to understand with us whenever we wanted to communicate with him.

I like this stage but felt a little sad that he's no longer our little baby, but a small boy now. Before we know it, he'll hit primary school, secondary and then he'll find a girlfriend and forget about his mummy...*emo*

*Snaps out of emo shit*

Anyway, Dan was the one who took that thing out in the end because Gabe told him to take a look at his 'doing'. And Of course, Dan only laughed as he thought it was amusing. Heng he 自动，otherwise, he'll face my wrath even though it's not his fault to begin with. muahahahaha