While I was cooking in the kitchen, Yvaine came in and had a chat with me. She talked about her school graduation preparation, about her friends wearing wigs during the performance, about her tuition center friends....On and off, she asked me what I was cutting, what is that for.....
Out of sudden, she told me: "when I grow up, I want to buy a lot of pets"
"Why a lot of pets?"
With her eyes shining bright, "I want to buy a lot of pets to sell" (in-born entrepreneurship, what a surprise!)
"Then I use their skin to make clothes, or maybe bags" (OMG! sound so determined, but how she get this idea from?)
Even has a (cruel) business plan in her mind at this age.
"Well, don't you think this sound so cruel; to kill the animals for their skin?"
"Once you take away their skin, the animals will die."
"Huh?! Ok Ok, then I won't use their skin." (then what?)
She smartly changed to another topics. Back to the this Sun graduation preparation, again.
Monday, 10 November 2014
Wednesday, 8 October 2014
德國的幼稚園。家長們都看過來吧！
http://www.cmoney.tw/notes/note-detail.aspx?nid=16309
The article only has a feature to share via Facebook, and thus, I have to share it by copy the link. (as above) * If you can't view it, please let me know.
We can't change the education system but we can change our way in bringing up our kids. Let them do things by themselves, let them manage their own homework and share out the house work.
Below is the link for the chores chart for your reference. You will notice the training starts from as low as 2 years old.
http://thehappyhousewife.com/home-management/age-appropriate-chores-for-kids-printable/
The article only has a feature to share via Facebook, and thus, I have to share it by copy the link. (as above) * If you can't view it, please let me know.
After go through this article,you will be surprised (and feel sorry) on how our kids grown up. No wonder they
lack of the ability to manage themselves, do not know what happening in their
surrounding (or I should say unconcerned) and afraid to go to school (or
nursery). They spend too much time learning from books which they do not know why they need to and maybe at the moment do not see the
chance to apply it. They do not know how to 'think' and plan for themselves.
Everything in their life is arranged, provided and some to an extend of spoon-feed.
I can't stop nodding my head when I read through this article. It's
kinda telling us the reason why our younger generation behave this way.
Our kids may start their schooling life in the different track as kids
from other Western country, however, we still can't put the blame solely
on our education system. Apart from going to school, they spend at
least 14 hours a day at home.
My student's mom was so shocked (I'd use the word shock as she
opened her eyes & mouth big) when she found out that I ONLY guided and supervised my son in
arranging his school bag according to the timetable during the first few weeks of his standard 1, helping him on his homework only upon his request, let him washing his school shoes and even brushing his own uniform.
In these 3 years time, he get punished (and complains) due to incomplete homework, he had to rushed things last minutes (due to lack of the sense of responsibility and procrastinate) and he even used to not bringing sufficient art material to his art class (as always remind me very last minute)
At the age of 9, he is already the family "dish washer" and my 6-year old is mopping the floor once a week. They changed their pillow case, bed sheet and helping on laundry. Keeping their own closet clean and tidy. All these are not really emphasized by many parents as they think the kids are too young to do that. Parents will find it very hard to get them to manage their own once they grown up. And, filial parents have to continue doing these chores for them. Kids will become dependent, lack of the sense of responsibility and most of them do not know how to appreciate.
We can't change the education system but we can change our way in bringing up our kids. Let them do things by themselves, let them manage their own homework and share out the house work.
Below is the link for the chores chart for your reference. You will notice the training starts from as low as 2 years old.
http://thehappyhousewife.com/home-management/age-appropriate-chores-for-kids-printable/
Monday, 11 August 2014
Bread Pudding
If you have days old bread or you want to have something 'bread-y" but not toasted bread, not sandwiches; you can think of making it into a dessert.
1/ few slices of bread
2/ 2 tbs of butter - melted
3/ 1/4 cup of raisin
4/ 4 eggs
5/ 3-4 tbs of sugar
6/ 2 cups of milk
7/ few drops of vanilla essence
8/ 1 tsp of cinnamon powder (optional)
Step 1: Spray your baking tray with vege oil.
Step 2: cut bread into any shapes that you like. Lay them nicely on the tray with raisin in between breads.
Step 3: lightly beat #2, 4, 5 & 6 until well-mixed
Step 4: lastly, add in #7. And, pour them onto the bread.
Preheat your oven. Set the temperature to 170 Celsius and time 45mins.
Voila, your 15mins of effort churn into a tummy-warming dessert. If your bread pudding turns out a bit dry, served with hot milk.
Tuesday, 22 July 2014
Time Management
"Time" not enough.
Many of time, we blame our job for taking up too much of our time. I used to be one of them. I keep telling myself that IF I'm not working, then I can have more time to do more things. (things that I always wanted to)
Well, my wish granted. I'm no longer on a 8-5 job. I'm at home. Many people (especially your partner) will marked you as "not working". They will expect you to have time to do basically everything. Especially chores that they think they have "no time" to do. Still I see myself running out of time and rushing for last minute task. Then I realise, non-productive activities has used up my precious time. I wasted my time in front of the computer-playing games or shopping without purpose.
Do you ever realise you are wasting too much time on the non-productive activities, like spending too much time in front of your computer, tv or your smartphone.
If time spent on these can be used to complete the tasks on your to-do list, I think there will be less likely procrastination happened.
As a mother of two and a tuition teacher, I have to be always ahead of time. I have to learn on how to get things done by not jeopardising other schedule?
1. Plan ahead.
If you plan your meal ahead, you will less likely to search through your fridge and still unable to make up your mind after minutes. Not only helping in manage your cooking time but planning ahead on what to buy and what to do the very next day is important too. I always plan my tuition lesson the day before and put the teaching materials aside.
2. Be organized.
Keep your house clutter-free. Be it your wardrobe, kitchen, cabinets or even your own dressing tables. Once you have everything in place, you will save your time in searching. Just imagine, everyday, you spend 2 minutes each in searching for clothes, then accessories (like a matching earring, hair ban); perhaps your kids socks or her hair clips/hair bans. Then you continue to search for food or drinks in kitchen, then looking for container to pack some food for your kids. Lastly, your car key & house keys....Before you out from the house, you forgot your documents and you rush in to search in your bedroom. Nope, it's not there! Lastly you found it under the cushion on your sofa.
3. Iron your clothes right after they are out from the washer.
You will notice you spend less time ironing as there is no need to spray water on your clothes. Your clothes get iron easily and also they dry faster. (unless you own a steamer iron)
4. Invest in a white board/notice board
Write down your tasks as well as reminders. Train your family members to pay attention to the notice board instead of repeatedly remind them. Also, you can pin your bills or due payments there. Once your payment is done, file it immediately. Make it a habit to jot down remarks on the bills, like payment date, payment mode as well as amount. You can get your kids to pin their school's notice there so that the parent won't miss out any.
5. Restrict time spent on electronic devices
Limit yourself the time you are going to spend on browsing FB, tv programmes or your smartphone. Spend more time interacting face-to-face with your family members and friends, spend time in improving your living area, and occasionally look through your drawers or cabinets to de-clutter and clear up junks. In return, you will find yourself spending less time and energy when comes to spring cleaning time.
6. Learn how to multitask
When I'm not working, I spend more time talking on the phone with my family in other state. However, you tend to be redundant when you are on the phone. If possible, take a damp cloth with you, and while talking, clean up and re-arrange your shelves, clear dust from the table top, do some sorting or as simple as keep your cables or chargers in place.
Multitasking skill become more crucial when it comes to cooking. Some people likes to get everything ready then only they start cooking. In fact, you can always start with cooking dishes that require longer time, like grilling or stewing; then at the same time prepare the veges. After the grilling, use the leftover oil or sauce, add few spoonful of water to steam cook your veges. You will save a lot of time instead waiting the food to be cooked and washing the pan/wok.
7. Teach your kids how to manage themselves, and share out housework
Many of time, mothers spend their nights on helping the kids to arrange their school bags, get ready their uniforms, socks, hanky; coaching and WAITING for them to complete their schoolwork, or do laundry and ironing. Why not we let them handle these by themselves? We are too afraid they will fail to do it properly. They may miss out their text book/workbook. It's a parental responsibility to let them learn, and make sure they continue learning until they know how to do it. Learn by mistake sometimes still the best way of getting ones to really learn up something. Else, you will have to do it for them until they see the need of privacy and stop you from helping them.
In fact, kids like to help out, initially. Why "initially" we stopped them from helping? Get them to help on house chores that are suitable for their age.
My boy at the age of 9 is helping to wash plates and utensils after meal, brushing his uniforms everyday during bath time, cleaning his shoes by himself, throw rubbish, and vacuuming the house occasionally. While my 6 years old girl can help to hang clothes on the umbrella hanger, fold and keep clothes in the designated drawers, helping to set the table during meal time.
Many of time, we blame our job for taking up too much of our time. I used to be one of them. I keep telling myself that IF I'm not working, then I can have more time to do more things. (things that I always wanted to)
Well, my wish granted. I'm no longer on a 8-5 job. I'm at home. Many people (especially your partner) will marked you as "not working". They will expect you to have time to do basically everything. Especially chores that they think they have "no time" to do. Still I see myself running out of time and rushing for last minute task. Then I realise, non-productive activities has used up my precious time. I wasted my time in front of the computer-playing games or shopping without purpose.
Do you ever realise you are wasting too much time on the non-productive activities, like spending too much time in front of your computer, tv or your smartphone.
If time spent on these can be used to complete the tasks on your to-do list, I think there will be less likely procrastination happened.
As a mother of two and a tuition teacher, I have to be always ahead of time. I have to learn on how to get things done by not jeopardising other schedule?
1. Plan ahead.
If you plan your meal ahead, you will less likely to search through your fridge and still unable to make up your mind after minutes. Not only helping in manage your cooking time but planning ahead on what to buy and what to do the very next day is important too. I always plan my tuition lesson the day before and put the teaching materials aside.
2. Be organized.
Keep your house clutter-free. Be it your wardrobe, kitchen, cabinets or even your own dressing tables. Once you have everything in place, you will save your time in searching. Just imagine, everyday, you spend 2 minutes each in searching for clothes, then accessories (like a matching earring, hair ban); perhaps your kids socks or her hair clips/hair bans. Then you continue to search for food or drinks in kitchen, then looking for container to pack some food for your kids. Lastly, your car key & house keys....Before you out from the house, you forgot your documents and you rush in to search in your bedroom. Nope, it's not there! Lastly you found it under the cushion on your sofa.
3. Iron your clothes right after they are out from the washer.
You will notice you spend less time ironing as there is no need to spray water on your clothes. Your clothes get iron easily and also they dry faster. (unless you own a steamer iron)
4. Invest in a white board/notice board
Write down your tasks as well as reminders. Train your family members to pay attention to the notice board instead of repeatedly remind them. Also, you can pin your bills or due payments there. Once your payment is done, file it immediately. Make it a habit to jot down remarks on the bills, like payment date, payment mode as well as amount. You can get your kids to pin their school's notice there so that the parent won't miss out any.
5. Restrict time spent on electronic devices
Limit yourself the time you are going to spend on browsing FB, tv programmes or your smartphone. Spend more time interacting face-to-face with your family members and friends, spend time in improving your living area, and occasionally look through your drawers or cabinets to de-clutter and clear up junks. In return, you will find yourself spending less time and energy when comes to spring cleaning time.
6. Learn how to multitask
When I'm not working, I spend more time talking on the phone with my family in other state. However, you tend to be redundant when you are on the phone. If possible, take a damp cloth with you, and while talking, clean up and re-arrange your shelves, clear dust from the table top, do some sorting or as simple as keep your cables or chargers in place.
Multitasking skill become more crucial when it comes to cooking. Some people likes to get everything ready then only they start cooking. In fact, you can always start with cooking dishes that require longer time, like grilling or stewing; then at the same time prepare the veges. After the grilling, use the leftover oil or sauce, add few spoonful of water to steam cook your veges. You will save a lot of time instead waiting the food to be cooked and washing the pan/wok.
7. Teach your kids how to manage themselves, and share out housework
Many of time, mothers spend their nights on helping the kids to arrange their school bags, get ready their uniforms, socks, hanky; coaching and WAITING for them to complete their schoolwork, or do laundry and ironing. Why not we let them handle these by themselves? We are too afraid they will fail to do it properly. They may miss out their text book/workbook. It's a parental responsibility to let them learn, and make sure they continue learning until they know how to do it. Learn by mistake sometimes still the best way of getting ones to really learn up something. Else, you will have to do it for them until they see the need of privacy and stop you from helping them.
In fact, kids like to help out, initially. Why "initially" we stopped them from helping? Get them to help on house chores that are suitable for their age.
My boy at the age of 9 is helping to wash plates and utensils after meal, brushing his uniforms everyday during bath time, cleaning his shoes by himself, throw rubbish, and vacuuming the house occasionally. While my 6 years old girl can help to hang clothes on the umbrella hanger, fold and keep clothes in the designated drawers, helping to set the table during meal time.
Thursday, 5 June 2014
小学问，大启示
我所谓的小学问，大启示是指 --》 从小孩那里得到的学问，可以给大人们很大的启示。
职场上的学问是每个在职的人所感兴趣的课题。但是谁会想到可能还没断奶的小瓜们居然可以给在职场打拼的粑粑和麻麻们很好的启示呢？
以下所记录的可是我当麻麻这么多年所领悟到小瓜们也是职场高手。
个案1：
老大今天突然嫌椅子不够高，改用塑料凳。结果，多出来的椅子就成了阻碍。他也懒得把它拿走，情愿挤过去妹妹那里。还好像很自在的吃起饭来。反而我这个没有被影响的却看不顺眼。就尝试问“为什么几个人吃饭，反而会更挤呢？” 他知道是因为多出那张椅子。可是又装出‘好像’不在状况的样子。他的姑姑明示+我的暗示；要他拿开多出的椅子。可是，他就装懵，还是继续吃饭。就是一副，我懂，但是我不想做的样子。最厉害的是：由头到尾，他都点头表示“我懂”，但没有行动。就是没有正面拒绝不要搬开，也没有正面回应。
我家小瓜的职场启示1：
如果某件事，对你没有造成多大影响；你可以稍为调整自己，但是千万不要主动动手。要不然，那就会成为你的责任。你只要“一笑置之”，然后继续你的分内事，保留同样的步骤；那你就会平平安安了。反过来说，如果你主动动了手，那有可能接下来就是你的工作咯。如果这多余的任务会给你加分还好；只怕是能者多劳。更糟糕的是会被人指为“好管闲事”。
个案2：
老二向来以狡，巧和精出名。那天，在刁曼島旅游时，她闯了个小祸。我们公婆俩，还有老大；就来个群轰。开始的时候，她保持安静。当我们进入训话的精髓；她以平静的语气，面带微笑地把话题“很不经意”的带到在远处在睡觉的猫。“你们看看那个‘睡美人’（sleeping beauty)，它们大白天也睡的这么甜。”
我家小瓜的职场启示2：
当你处身于水深火热时，你必须保持冷静。被上司/同僚骂也千万不可以乱了思维。然后等待时机成熟/重要关头的时候，给对方幽一个默，把气氛缓和下来；再把话题转移。
*小劝告：如果你天生没有这个天分，你可要三思而后行。因为，以我的经验来看，没有天分的人会有可能以失败收场，或弄巧反拙。虽然如此，还是可以后天补救的。有志者，事竟成呵。（多多练习啦！）
个案3：
很多职场上的人都会感慨自己在处理人事纠纷时不够的婉转。那你们也可以从小瓜们那里学学啊！你只要留意小瓜们是如何沟通，如何处理争执；你就会有大发现。最经典的就是，小瓜们现在可以为小事争个面红耳赤；但下一秒，可能因为一个玩具，他们又会聚在一起玩个不亦乐乎 -- 就好像什么事都没有发生过。他们或者是没有放在心上，又或者是因为有“利益”而“不计前嫌”。还有可能和那个打的最凶的小孩玩的最起劲。
我家小瓜的职场启示3：
职场纠纷是在所难免的。你的存活，就赖于你如何化解这些大大小小的“劫”。你只要牢牢记着，只要把每一场“劫”照着小孩般的争执那样去化解；你就可以在那里存活久一点。说白了点，就是要学小瓜们那样的“不计前嫌” （尤其是和你职位息息相关/公事来往多的那个人；不管他多令你讨厌，多狡猾；你还是要好像小瓜们的手腕那样的和他相处）。只要你笑着和他共事，他也很难找理由拒绝和你“分享” “玩具”的。
个案4：
再多加留意小瓜们的团队精神。如果可以回想你小时候，想必你的团队精神也应该不差。那为什么不秀出来呢？小瓜们对新的成员，一下就混熟。对面家的，楼上的，对面座的。。。就连没见过面的，也是没两下就打成一片。你不妨小心的观察，他们里面一定有一个是总师令（专长：发号施令，策划游戏），有一个是和事佬（专长：安慰发小脾气的小朋友），有些是随从（没有太多意见，但却是团队里不可缺的队员），而有一两个捣蛋鬼（专长：在不适当时候做一些小动作）。虽然大家有不同的专长，但没有影响整个团队运作。我也留意到有些比较内向的小朋友，是没有特定专长的。他/她的存在可有可无，很快就会被队员所遗忘。渐渐的，不被邀请一起玩。有一天，我问老大，那个谁谁呢？他好像还要思考一阵，才说：“哦，忘记他了。”要命的是，根本就没有意思要去找他。继续玩。
我家小瓜的职场启示4：
因为太多的外在因素，我们已经没有办法再像小孩那样的毫无顾虑的和不同背景的人打成一片。但是，不管怎样，你还是要学会teamwork。除了团队精神以外，还要寻找一个工作之外的角色，就好像小瓜们那样。你可以是那个和事佬；又或者是那个策划出游/吃饭指南的，也可以是喜欢说说笑话，逗趣的那个。千万不要是可有可无，没有专长的那个。可有可无的团员，是很难生存的。
看看，是不是觉得吃了那么多年的饭，还不够一个没断奶的小瓜来的强？
在职的粑粑和麻麻，多多向你的小瓜学习吧！他们可是你的职场师傅呵。
职场上的学问是每个在职的人所感兴趣的课题。但是谁会想到可能还没断奶的小瓜们居然可以给在职场打拼的粑粑和麻麻们很好的启示呢？
以下所记录的可是我当麻麻这么多年所领悟到小瓜们也是职场高手。
个案1：
老大今天突然嫌椅子不够高，改用塑料凳。结果，多出来的椅子就成了阻碍。他也懒得把它拿走，情愿挤过去妹妹那里。还好像很自在的吃起饭来。反而我这个没有被影响的却看不顺眼。就尝试问“为什么几个人吃饭，反而会更挤呢？” 他知道是因为多出那张椅子。可是又装出‘好像’不在状况的样子。他的姑姑明示+我的暗示；要他拿开多出的椅子。可是，他就装懵，还是继续吃饭。就是一副，我懂，但是我不想做的样子。最厉害的是：由头到尾，他都点头表示“我懂”，但没有行动。就是没有正面拒绝不要搬开，也没有正面回应。
我家小瓜的职场启示1：
如果某件事，对你没有造成多大影响；你可以稍为调整自己，但是千万不要主动动手。要不然，那就会成为你的责任。你只要“一笑置之”，然后继续你的分内事，保留同样的步骤；那你就会平平安安了。反过来说，如果你主动动了手，那有可能接下来就是你的工作咯。如果这多余的任务会给你加分还好；只怕是能者多劳。更糟糕的是会被人指为“好管闲事”。
个案2：
老二向来以狡，巧和精出名。那天，在刁曼島旅游时，她闯了个小祸。我们公婆俩，还有老大；就来个群轰。开始的时候，她保持安静。当我们进入训话的精髓；她以平静的语气，面带微笑地把话题“很不经意”的带到在远处在睡觉的猫。“你们看看那个‘睡美人’（sleeping beauty)，它们大白天也睡的这么甜。”
我家小瓜的职场启示2：
当你处身于水深火热时，你必须保持冷静。被上司/同僚骂也千万不可以乱了思维。然后等待时机成熟/重要关头的时候，给对方幽一个默，把气氛缓和下来；再把话题转移。
*小劝告：如果你天生没有这个天分，你可要三思而后行。因为，以我的经验来看，没有天分的人会有可能以失败收场，或弄巧反拙。虽然如此，还是可以后天补救的。有志者，事竟成呵。（多多练习啦！）
个案3：
很多职场上的人都会感慨自己在处理人事纠纷时不够的婉转。那你们也可以从小瓜们那里学学啊！你只要留意小瓜们是如何沟通，如何处理争执；你就会有大发现。最经典的就是，小瓜们现在可以为小事争个面红耳赤；但下一秒，可能因为一个玩具，他们又会聚在一起玩个不亦乐乎 -- 就好像什么事都没有发生过。他们或者是没有放在心上，又或者是因为有“利益”而“不计前嫌”。还有可能和那个打的最凶的小孩玩的最起劲。
我家小瓜的职场启示3：
职场纠纷是在所难免的。你的存活，就赖于你如何化解这些大大小小的“劫”。你只要牢牢记着，只要把每一场“劫”照着小孩般的争执那样去化解；你就可以在那里存活久一点。说白了点，就是要学小瓜们那样的“不计前嫌” （尤其是和你职位息息相关/公事来往多的那个人；不管他多令你讨厌，多狡猾；你还是要好像小瓜们的手腕那样的和他相处）。只要你笑着和他共事，他也很难找理由拒绝和你“分享” “玩具”的。
个案4：
再多加留意小瓜们的团队精神。如果可以回想你小时候，想必你的团队精神也应该不差。那为什么不秀出来呢？小瓜们对新的成员，一下就混熟。对面家的，楼上的，对面座的。。。就连没见过面的，也是没两下就打成一片。你不妨小心的观察，他们里面一定有一个是总师令（专长：发号施令，策划游戏），有一个是和事佬（专长：安慰发小脾气的小朋友），有些是随从（没有太多意见，但却是团队里不可缺的队员），而有一两个捣蛋鬼（专长：在不适当时候做一些小动作）。虽然大家有不同的专长，但没有影响整个团队运作。我也留意到有些比较内向的小朋友，是没有特定专长的。他/她的存在可有可无，很快就会被队员所遗忘。渐渐的，不被邀请一起玩。有一天，我问老大，那个谁谁呢？他好像还要思考一阵，才说：“哦，忘记他了。”要命的是，根本就没有意思要去找他。继续玩。
我家小瓜的职场启示4：
因为太多的外在因素，我们已经没有办法再像小孩那样的毫无顾虑的和不同背景的人打成一片。但是，不管怎样，你还是要学会teamwork。除了团队精神以外，还要寻找一个工作之外的角色，就好像小瓜们那样。你可以是那个和事佬；又或者是那个策划出游/吃饭指南的，也可以是喜欢说说笑话，逗趣的那个。千万不要是可有可无，没有专长的那个。可有可无的团员，是很难生存的。
看看，是不是觉得吃了那么多年的饭，还不够一个没断奶的小瓜来的强？
在职的粑粑和麻麻，多多向你的小瓜学习吧！他们可是你的职场师傅呵。
Tuesday, 3 June 2014
Tioman Island 3D2N Getaway.
Tioman Island is located 32km off the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia and it's around 2 hours drive from Skudai/JB. Since it's just a 2hrs drive, we decided to go there right before the next peak season - school mid-term break. We did not make any booking before going there; since it's not a peak season (we assumed) We chose Tioman Island just because it's the nearest we can afford to go. (not prefer long hour drive as we only have maximum 3 days to spend)
DAY 1:
We decided to detour to Sibu Island right after we passed by Kota Tinggi. We changed the GPS destination to Tanjung Leman instead. We spent shorter time to reach the jetty of Tanjung Leman as it's closer. At first, we were very happy of the detour decision. But, our joy was dampen when we found out that we actually need a booking to go to the resort in Sibu Island. There is no ferry service like Tioman Island. The boat will only pick up guests who had make their booking/reservation with the specific resort. Well, we managed to call up one. Guess what? The accommodation, including 3 meals (for 2 adults, 2 kids) only RM235. However, the boat fare is killing us! Since there is no guest check-in to that resort on that particular day, we have to pay RM540 for a return boat trip! Since we have no visibility on the situation, we decided to drive to Tioman.
Finally, we reached Mersing Jetty after another 1 hour drive. Everything was running smoothly, we managed to get a chalet (surprisingly, many places are fully booked)
Tips: Please book your resort before you go. You can have more choices if you book ahead. Also, please remember to asked for 'package' price. Normally, the price for packaged deal is more worthwhile.
The next ferry departure time is 11:30 am and we were thinking to have our lunch at Tioman as the ferry ride will take us about 1.5 hours. WHO KNOWS, the ferry was delayed for 2 hours! Luckily there are stalls selling snacks.
Tips: Remember to bring along food that is able to fill up your stomach, like bread or burgers. This is important especially if you are traveling with kids.
We arrived at Genting at 3pm. It took us about 10mins to walk to our chalet - Idaman Beach Holiday. http://www.cuti.my/tour/info/id/1336/Malaysia/Pahang/tour/3D2N-Idaman-Beach-Tioman-Fullboard-Package/
Tips: If you are going to Genting, choose the resorts/chalets that are located at the right side of the island. The right side sea shore is more sandy while left side is rocky. (beside Idaman, Impiana Inn also located on the right side)
We were looking for food at odd hour of 4:30pm. Most of them still close and one Chinese lady recommended us a Chinese restaurant - . We spent RM96 for 1 vege, 1 soup, 1 prawn & 1 fish dish. They have most of the items price listed on the menu. However, the quality of the dishes didn't appear in par with the price charged.
Tips: If you are not engaged with any packaged deal, and going for budget trip; try going to other restaurant where food prices are cheaper.
We walked along the rocky, then sandy seaside.
Right before sunset, kids had their very first experience swimming in the sea. They were scared at first, and thrilled after that. They enjoyed it so much till we need to hurry them to go home before the sky turned totally dark.
DAY 2:
We arranged snorkelling trip with the hotel manager and he only charged us RM150 for the whole family. Then we pay extra RM20 more for kids masks. And, after breakfast, there we go!
The first snorkelling spot was actually marine park. We saw only fishes, in different sizes. Kids were thrilled with their first snorkelling experience. However, their masks were either spoiled or too tight. (we forgot to try on their big head before we hop into the boat)
Luckily we had standby two loaves of bread for fishes. They stayed on the big floater and enjoy feeding fish while both of us continue snorkelling.
We had enough relaxation with warm sea breeze and scenic island view.
The boat continues to cruise to another snorkelling location after lunch. It was in the middle of big blue sea. Weather suddenly turned cloudy and started to rain. They stayed in the boat while daddy jumped down to see if there is anything. To our surprise, there were many beautiful corals. We swam quite a distance from the boat to look for more corals.
We got back to our chalet around 2:30pm. After a nice shower, we took a short nap. Then, around 5pm, we were out again.
Pink colour banana flower in upright position. (I dunno whether this is rare or not; but for me, that was the first time I saw this)
Playing in the sunset.
Sleeping beauties around the island were caught in action. They must be waiting for their prince charming to arrive. Or they are actually working night shift.
DAY 3:
No letting go any chances to play, like never see sands in their life....
We decided to take 10:00 a.m ferry but AGAIN, we were waited in the small, congested jetty for 2 hours before we board on the ferry! And, the best thing is No One knows what's going on & No One were sent to inform the passengers when is the exact time.
Bidding bye-bye to the fishes with bread.
DAY 1:
We decided to detour to Sibu Island right after we passed by Kota Tinggi. We changed the GPS destination to Tanjung Leman instead. We spent shorter time to reach the jetty of Tanjung Leman as it's closer. At first, we were very happy of the detour decision. But, our joy was dampen when we found out that we actually need a booking to go to the resort in Sibu Island. There is no ferry service like Tioman Island. The boat will only pick up guests who had make their booking/reservation with the specific resort. Well, we managed to call up one. Guess what? The accommodation, including 3 meals (for 2 adults, 2 kids) only RM235. However, the boat fare is killing us! Since there is no guest check-in to that resort on that particular day, we have to pay RM540 for a return boat trip! Since we have no visibility on the situation, we decided to drive to Tioman.
Finally, we reached Mersing Jetty after another 1 hour drive. Everything was running smoothly, we managed to get a chalet (surprisingly, many places are fully booked)
Tips: Please book your resort before you go. You can have more choices if you book ahead. Also, please remember to asked for 'package' price. Normally, the price for packaged deal is more worthwhile.
The next ferry departure time is 11:30 am and we were thinking to have our lunch at Tioman as the ferry ride will take us about 1.5 hours. WHO KNOWS, the ferry was delayed for 2 hours! Luckily there are stalls selling snacks.
Tips: Remember to bring along food that is able to fill up your stomach, like bread or burgers. This is important especially if you are traveling with kids.
We arrived at Genting at 3pm. It took us about 10mins to walk to our chalet - Idaman Beach Holiday. http://www.cuti.my/tour/info/id/1336/Malaysia/Pahang/tour/3D2N-Idaman-Beach-Tioman-Fullboard-Package/
Tips: If you are going to Genting, choose the resorts/chalets that are located at the right side of the island. The right side sea shore is more sandy while left side is rocky. (beside Idaman, Impiana Inn also located on the right side)
We were looking for food at odd hour of 4:30pm. Most of them still close and one Chinese lady recommended us a Chinese restaurant - . We spent RM96 for 1 vege, 1 soup, 1 prawn & 1 fish dish. They have most of the items price listed on the menu. However, the quality of the dishes didn't appear in par with the price charged.
Tips: If you are not engaged with any packaged deal, and going for budget trip; try going to other restaurant where food prices are cheaper.
We walked along the rocky, then sandy seaside.
Right before sunset, kids had their very first experience swimming in the sea. They were scared at first, and thrilled after that. They enjoyed it so much till we need to hurry them to go home before the sky turned totally dark.
DAY 2:
We arranged snorkelling trip with the hotel manager and he only charged us RM150 for the whole family. Then we pay extra RM20 more for kids masks. And, after breakfast, there we go!
The first snorkelling spot was actually marine park. We saw only fishes, in different sizes. Kids were thrilled with their first snorkelling experience. However, their masks were either spoiled or too tight. (we forgot to try on their big head before we hop into the boat)
Luckily we had standby two loaves of bread for fishes. They stayed on the big floater and enjoy feeding fish while both of us continue snorkelling.
We had enough relaxation with warm sea breeze and scenic island view.
The boat continues to cruise to another snorkelling location after lunch. It was in the middle of big blue sea. Weather suddenly turned cloudy and started to rain. They stayed in the boat while daddy jumped down to see if there is anything. To our surprise, there were many beautiful corals. We swam quite a distance from the boat to look for more corals.
Sleeping beauties around the island were caught in action. They must be waiting for their prince charming to arrive. Or they are actually working night shift.
DAY 3:
No letting go any chances to play, like never see sands in their life....
We decided to take 10:00 a.m ferry but AGAIN, we were waited in the small, congested jetty for 2 hours before we board on the ferry! And, the best thing is No One knows what's going on & No One were sent to inform the passengers when is the exact time.
Bidding bye-bye to the fishes with bread.
Wednesday, 14 May 2014
Teppanyaki Eggplant
Last night, I cooked teppanyaki eggplant, for the 1st time. It turned out to be very yummy.
Prep:
1. Large Japanese eggplant, sliced it into eight pieces.
2. 3pcs of shallots, 4 cloves of garlics and small chunks of ginger. Finely chopped.
3. minced meat, marinated with corn starch, pinch of salt & some pepper powder.
Instruction:
1. Add 2 spoons of oil and heat up the wok. (I used HappyCall)
2. Lay them flat on the heated pan with the skin facing down. (to avoid the eggplant absorb too much of oil)
3. After 10-15mins, sprinkle some sea salt on each slice. Then turned the eggplant & try to grill both side; until the flesh looks brownish.
4. Take out the eggplant & stir in minced meat, together with the garlic, shallots & ginger.
5. Lastly, pour in 3 spoonful of teriyaki sauce/Korean BBQ sauce, and mixed well. Within half a minute, turn off the stove.
Spread them on the eggplant and voila, your Teppanyaki Eggplant is ready to serve!
Sunday, 11 May 2014
Lotus Desaru 2D1N
Back in 2013:
Kiddos were having fun before mid-term school holiday. We put up a 2D1N stay at Lotus Desaru a week before their school holiday, just in time for Lotus Desaru one-bedroom suite full board deal (RM350 inclusive tax). The deal comes with 3 meals for 2 and water park entrance for 2.
We forked out RM32.50 for Ian's buffet dinner and RM5 each for their water park entrance wrist bands. *Wrist band can be reused on the 2nd day, as long as you present the used one to the counter.
Left: downstair - living room & a washroom.
Right : upstair - bedroom with king bed and a washroom.
Day 1 : We spent the afternoon having a relaxed meal at Rhu Bar, which situated just in front of the big blue sea. It was a warm but windy afternoon.
After meal, we were set for the water park fun time. Kids were thrilled over the 'lazy river'. They played repeatedly as it is the most exciting ride. However, it was pretty bored to me as I have to strand at one location just to ensure they are playing safely. There is a water playground but my kids didn't enjoy it much as the water is too shallow.
Lazy river - main attraction in the water park
water playground - water too shallow. perhaps for younger kids.
Pouring coconut - many will gather below the coconut to wait for the few seconds of fun-filled pouring water.
Buffet dinner was served at Teratai Restaurant. However the variety of food is below our expectation, compare their "international" price.
After dinner, we took a short walk, enjoyed the sea breeze as well as waiting for the "lion dance". The men told me that they were preparing for "lion dance" and we decided to hang around while waiting for that. Everyone of us except Yvaine was having a good laugh when we found out that the so-called "lion dance' was in fact 'line dance'. Yvaine kept asking why we went home even before she get to watch lion dance. =.=||
After the joke of the day, we took hotel's shuttle back to our room. Everyone was exhausted. No one mentioned about watching TV.
 |
| Night view of Lotus Desaru. |
Day 2 : after breakfast, kiddos played at the beach under shades. Due to poor skill, none of them able to make even one sand castle.
Reason being : None of us bother to carry water from the sea as the sun is burning hot. Since there is no fun just playing with the loose sand, then we proceed to water park. Not like the day before, weather was extremely hot. But kids still kids, they insisted playing under red hot sun like never see water in their life. They played 'lazy river' until the workers closed the game (around 12:30pm)
We proceed to check out before we headed for our lunch somewhere around Desaru. Everyone was contented even the food was not very satisfying.
Tips: you will see Lotus Desaru deals feature on Groupon on and off. If you are keen, please keep an eye on Groupon. I just realise it can goes as low as RM180 for 2D1N (but with only breakfast)
Saturday, 19 April 2014
4D3N in Star Cruise Aquarius
As what I understand, SuperStar Aquarius only started to operate in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah somewhere 2013 year end, up to March 2014. (It's now back to Taiwan sailing). My lovely cousin was fast enough to book this cruise ship for our 4D3N holiday. The ship ex-Kota Kinabalu, then sailed to Brunei and next was Bintulu before back to Kota Kinabalu port.
 | |||||||||
| Nice cabin. Cozy enough for us to spend 3 our nights here. |
Day 1:
We checked-in around 4pm and were given an obstructed window view room. We missed the afternoon tea due to busy roaming around the room and taking photos. Only around 4:40 we noticed that the tea time is up to 4:30pm.
My Advice: If you were to take any SuperStar cruise, please remember to look into the itinerary the very first thing you are on board. No one will remind you what is the activities on-going. You manage your own schedule.
Day 1:Strolling around the ship.
The best thing you get when travel by cruise is you get to see the panoramic sunrise or sunset view.
NIGHT 1:
We had our dinner at the open air restaurant, Oceana BBQ. The colourful spices, mouth-watering jellies, and fruit carving were just too captivating.
Show time!
Strong and sturdy!
After the acrobatic show, here comes the cabaret-like performance.
DAY 2: Brunei
We did not join the land tour. Just spent time enjoying our breakfast, then lunch, and walking around. However, we did try to walk to the nearest town outside the port to take a look at "Brunei".
Night 2 : Fun show by Colour Beat from Penang. (from Penang eh)
https://zh-tw.facebook.com/CaiSeJiePaiLeDui
DAY 3 : Bintulu
Gala night. 3-course dinner with cod fish. (the middle photo was actually Day 2 BBQ dinner)
Food oh food. Having enough of food for these 3 days.
*Not only the splurge of good food, we even had supper every night, up to 12:30am.
NIGHT 3 :
彩色節拍樂隊 put up a fun late night show.
They immediately become my cousin's idol. LOL........
Just curious what is the outside world looks like.
~~ the end ~~
Wednesday, 16 April 2014
I SAY "don't say Indian"
It's very common that kids talk out loud in public without any worry. Every parents should have, at least once in their parenthood, experienced embarrassing moment when kids say something inappropriate in the public. I do foresee this and I always remind my kids, speak gently & softly whenever you are outside of your house.
It's normal for a 5 years old girls can't differentiate races. However, she likes to use this to express her thoughts. "mummy, just now that Malay girl look over here" or "that Indian man is talking so loud over his phone" Well, the best part is -- she always guess it wrongly. In fact, the Malay girl was actually an Indian woman & the Indian man was actually a Malay man. I suppose they don't mind this type of remark from a 5-year old girl. Anyhow, it's not nice to mentioned it this way. So, I told her many times, don't ever mentioned it this way. It may sound provoking to certain people. Well, I guess she got me.
One day, I overheard her conversation with her bro.
Yvaine : Koko, did you see my teacher in the clubhouse this morning?
Ian : Which one? So long ago, how can I remember.
Yvaine : Neh, the one who was standing in front of the office glass door, with 2 children.
Ian : Oh, that Indian woman? You mean she is your teacher?
Yvaine : Don't say Indian. Yes, she is my English teacher.
Ian : Why can't I say Indian? She is an Indian what?!
Yvaine : I say cannot say Indian.
Ian : Why? (puzzled)
Yvaine : Not nice to say like that. (this is definitely & completely "copy" from me & "paste" on her bro). Do you see that, my teacher has 2 kids.
Ian : Well, what you are trying to tell about your Indian teacher, and the Indian boys? (not sure he is purposely or unintentionally)
Yvaine : (sound a bit irritated) I saaaayy....don't say Indian. Cannot say like that.
Ian : Then how you want me to put it?!
Yvaine : (smartly divert the topic) Eh, you know, my teacher is very smart.
Ian : How smart?
Yvaine : She can speak English & a little bit Mandarin.
Ian : Oh, your Indian teacher can speak Mandarin. Then you speak Mandarin with her la.
From far, I did not hear any respond from the sister. I think Yvaine must have fed up and tired with the reminder "cannot say Indian". She must have smartly slipped away & choose not to respond to her brother.
It's normal for a 5 years old girls can't differentiate races. However, she likes to use this to express her thoughts. "mummy, just now that Malay girl look over here" or "that Indian man is talking so loud over his phone" Well, the best part is -- she always guess it wrongly. In fact, the Malay girl was actually an Indian woman & the Indian man was actually a Malay man. I suppose they don't mind this type of remark from a 5-year old girl. Anyhow, it's not nice to mentioned it this way. So, I told her many times, don't ever mentioned it this way. It may sound provoking to certain people. Well, I guess she got me.
One day, I overheard her conversation with her bro.
Yvaine : Koko, did you see my teacher in the clubhouse this morning?
Ian : Which one? So long ago, how can I remember.
Yvaine : Neh, the one who was standing in front of the office glass door, with 2 children.
Ian : Oh, that Indian woman? You mean she is your teacher?
Yvaine : Don't say Indian. Yes, she is my English teacher.
Ian : Why can't I say Indian? She is an Indian what?!
Yvaine : I say cannot say Indian.
Ian : Why? (puzzled)
Yvaine : Not nice to say like that. (this is definitely & completely "copy" from me & "paste" on her bro). Do you see that, my teacher has 2 kids.
Ian : Well, what you are trying to tell about your Indian teacher, and the Indian boys? (not sure he is purposely or unintentionally)
Yvaine : (sound a bit irritated) I saaaayy....don't say Indian. Cannot say like that.
Ian : Then how you want me to put it?!
Yvaine : (smartly divert the topic) Eh, you know, my teacher is very smart.
Ian : How smart?
Yvaine : She can speak English & a little bit Mandarin.
Ian : Oh, your Indian teacher can speak Mandarin. Then you speak Mandarin with her la.
From far, I did not hear any respond from the sister. I think Yvaine must have fed up and tired with the reminder "cannot say Indian". She must have smartly slipped away & choose not to respond to her brother.
Tuesday, 8 April 2014
I'M BACK!!
After MIA for so long, here I'm back in action. I'M BACK!! Are you still there?
I've been in busy mode since last Dec., and due to pc unstable; I'm not 'literally' doing anything to my blog. Bad huh..... not even updating a letter or two. My bad.
I had a lot of things to share since Dec. 2013. Here is the LONG list.
In Dec, me and kiddos traveled back to Sabah and had a 3-week fun holiday there. Me myself went cruising with my sweet cousin. A lot of Star Aquarius photos to share.
In Jan, I had a blast-ful & thrilling time when I became my apartment committee member. Unveiled human being's ugly side of selfishness and greediness.Where has your conscience gone?
In Feb, still, my schedule is packed with daily routine & "busy-body" tasks.
In March, make the special out of nothing special.
 |
| I'M back!! |
I've been in busy mode since last Dec., and due to pc unstable; I'm not 'literally' doing anything to my blog. Bad huh..... not even updating a letter or two. My bad.
I had a lot of things to share since Dec. 2013. Here is the LONG list.
In Dec, me and kiddos traveled back to Sabah and had a 3-week fun holiday there. Me myself went cruising with my sweet cousin. A lot of Star Aquarius photos to share.
In Jan, I had a blast-ful & thrilling time when I became my apartment committee member. Unveiled human being's ugly side of selfishness and greediness.Where has your conscience gone?
In Feb, still, my schedule is packed with daily routine & "busy-body" tasks.
In March, make the special out of nothing special.
 | |
| Welcome to Star Aquarius. Here you indulge and enjoy till you drop. |
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