tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130044772012-01-06T20:50:05.956+08:00So that I may remember why all things were createdtscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.comBlogger6931100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-10082004247613779872010-10-28T17:27:00.000+08:002010-10-28T17:27:00.178+08:00

...and all things nice, but she'll always be a sunbeam to me.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-46801342858422290432010-09-15T11:04:00.000+08:002010-09-15T11:04:49.675+08:00

...Stardust is a good listener. People have commented that Stardust is a well-behaved boy.  This is not to say that he is a complete angel all of the time (because he isn't!).  However, he is generally sweet-natured, polite and obedient in public. I have found that Stardust is more likely to display 'appropriate' behaviour when we are out, if I let him know what is expected of him beforehand. 

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-36966380294951843842010-09-13T11:38:00.000+08:002010-09-13T11:38:08.568+08:00

I'm at the 16 week mark now.  Vomiting has subsided to around 2-3 times a day.  Episodes of nausea and uncontrollable retching are greatly reduced to less than 10 times a day.  I am now able to hold a conversation, spend about 20 minutes in front of a computer screen, and read a whole story to Stardust before I start feeling ill again. That is all.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-75738944531442759522010-07-26T14:19:00.000+08:002010-07-26T14:19:01.531+08:00

...we can see two stripes of pink. I'm very excited but also very, very, very ill. Normal programming will resume when I resume feeling normal.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-76248279764853512010-07-08T07:30:00.000+08:002010-07-08T07:30:00.587+08:00

MDH has been telling Stardust the story of 'Jack and the Beanstalk'. After a few retellings, we realised that Stardust was more interested in the growing Beanstalk than in Jack and his skyline adventures.  Stardust even disassembled one of his musical instruments and excitedly distributed all the green beans into various receptacles in his room in the hope that one of them would sprout into a

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-3997349175800228542010-07-07T07:34:00.000+08:002010-07-07T07:34:00.152+08:00

Stardust woke up from his nap early, sobbing piteously.  I went to see him, but he did not want to get out of his cot, so I let him be.  He carried on weeping for a few minutes, then called for me. I had no idea why he was feeling so sad, so I asked him why he was crying.  He just kept saying, 'Stardust is sad'. After a while, I asked him if he had a bad dream and he shook his head and said, "

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-19188492939108216922010-07-06T08:00:00.020+08:002010-07-06T08:00:05.918+08:00

Eating: Grilled meltique beef steak, medium rare Swiss brown mushrooms and onions in gravy Baked russet potatoes dripping with grated cheese Boiled peas Drinking: Pear juice Watching: 1. How Stella Got Her Groove Back (What?!  Don't judge me, ok?!  It was on TV!) 2. Dogville (Intriguing, sad and horrifyingly true to life.)

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-36609509033911535052010-07-05T07:10:00.003+08:002010-07-05T07:10:00.449+08:00

Here are my thoughts on Susanna Wesley's Household Rules: Rule #7: Give them nothing that they cry for, and only that when asked for politely.This rule is ABSOLUTELY enforced at my house.  I absolutely detest children who act like they are the boss of the household and whine or scream for what they want.  And I blame the parents who give in to them.  Yes, it is much, much easier to give in

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-48285957613942428262010-07-02T07:47:00.018+08:002010-07-02T07:47:00.648+08:00

Stardust's breakfast this morning (30 minutes):1. One small glass of milk2. One small glass of orange juice (heavily diluted with water)3. One bowl of oatmeal with a spoonful of honey4. One handful of blueberries5. Half a boiled egg My breakfast this morning (5 minutes spread out over the course of 30 minutes):1. One small glass of water2. The other half of the boiled egg3. Three bites of toast

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-21320674988542243302010-07-01T15:07:00.057+08:002010-07-01T15:07:00.495+08:00

So, we are at the Singapore Art Museum, after having climbed up THREE flights of stairs in order to find the children's interactive corner (note to Art Museum Curator: are those stairs meant to act as some sort of deterrent?  I thought the whole point was to encourage parents to bring their children to the museum!). The corner was set up with pencils and paper, and there was a section where

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-22116392651811072242010-06-30T07:45:00.001+08:002010-06-30T07:45:00.264+08:00

We watched an episode of 'Man vs Wild' yesterday evening after dinner (we usually watch a documentary during the evening meal, but anyone who has watched 'Man vs Wild' would know that it is hardly appropriate dinnertime entertainment). I am a big fan of Bear Grylls.  He is an all-round great guy and a good role model - and it is such fun watching him because he seems to have a real passion for

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-68401005731489416572010-06-29T08:06:00.004+08:002010-06-29T08:06:00.375+08:00

Here are my thoughts on Susanna Wesley's Household Rules: Rule #6: Require all to be still during Family Worship.I do not think that it is unreasonable to expect a very young child to show respect by maintaining a reverent attitude, especially during important occasions.  I do think it is unreasonable to expect a very young child under the age of 2 to uphold silence and remain seated for

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-15012183236220736612010-06-28T08:03:00.005+08:002010-06-28T08:03:00.274+08:00

I love the song 'True Colours'.  It's written by Billy Steinburg who is famous for so many 1980's hits like the Bangles' 'Eternal Flame' and Madonna's 'Like a Virgin'.  According to his website, he originally intended the song to be about his mother, but worked with his lyricist to make the song much more ambiguous, so that it could be applied to any relationship between two people. I actually

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-80640081321044850402010-06-25T07:29:00.005+08:002010-06-25T22:33:23.127+08:00

The Aged Ps managed to score some free tickets to 'Toy Story 3' and we're going to take Stardust along with us.  His very first picture show! I hope he enjoys it. I hope we enjoy it too! I am going to bring along his milk and a few snacks, in case he starts to get loud. (updated 10:28pm on the same day) Well, that was AWESOME! We were a little worried because it was a 3D movie and required

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-38233571012794868662010-06-24T08:24:00.054+08:002010-06-24T08:24:00.649+08:00

Every morning, after breakfast, Stardust and I go downstairs to play.  We are fortunate that there are several families with young children living in our block - and we frequently meet each other at the playground.  Stardust's favourite playmate is a little girl called Bonnie.  Bonnie is a little French girl, a tiny little spindly thing with curly blonde ringlets all over her head, grey-green

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-75887448829061753402010-06-23T08:16:00.000+08:002010-06-23T08:16:00.107+08:00

I haven't been feeling well lately - it is a combination of smog and overtiredness, I guess. Yesterday, I had a stonking great headache in the afternoon and was lying down on the couch trying to rest whilst still valiantly attempting to engage in Stardust's games. After watching me gesture at him feebly for a few minutes, Stardust climbed up onto my stomach and looked me in the eye. Stardust:

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-2077019557752910542010-06-22T07:10:00.000+08:002010-06-22T07:10:00.447+08:00

Here are my thoughts on Susanna Wesley's Household Rules: Rule #5: To teach a child to pray as soon as he can speak.I should think that this rule still applies to families who do not subscribe to any particular religion. Every family will have certain key beliefs or traditions that they hold sacred and would like to pass onto the next generation.  Christianity is the foundation on which we have

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-73156946824679676682010-06-20T07:19:00.003+08:002010-06-20T07:19:00.068+08:00

Name: MDH Objective: Seeking a position that utilises my extensive experience and knowledge in the field of parenting  Strengths:1. Proven ability to act quickly under pressure 2. Understanding of all key health and sanitation concerns3. Basic mastery of feeding, bathing and diapering techniques4. Full range of managerial and disciplinary skills5. Persuasive speaking competent Experience:2008 -

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-91071300808680671952010-06-18T09:28:00.004+08:002010-06-18T09:28:00.619+08:00

This morning I woke up feeling incredibly grouchy. So I had potato crisps for breakfast and I felt much, much better. (Don't tell MDH) Have a great weekend and Happy Father's Day to all you dads out there!

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-19736424813546706312010-06-17T07:42:00.001+08:002010-06-17T08:04:49.147+08:00

Now, I know that I already posted a video of Captain Valor performing this particular song, but the original Owl City music video is just so lovely and whimsical that I had to share it. Stardust is fascinated by all the mechanical vintage toys, especially the robots and the giant silver airship (he gets very excited about it and will exclaim "Fish coming out of the cupboard!!" whenever we hear

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-48211547751365680082010-06-16T17:12:00.001+08:002010-06-16T17:14:33.621+08:00

Here's a beautifully photoshopped picture of what Orchard Road, our main shopping district, is looking like during today's monsoon, which incidentally coincides with the Dragonboat Festival.  (Picture credits to Grace) I was planning to head down there today to take advantage of our sale season and get some much needed essentials (i.e. it's time to buy some new bras), but I'm so glad that I

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-63504068947051942342010-06-16T07:45:00.005+08:002010-06-16T07:45:00.623+08:00

Here are my thoughts on Susanna Wesley's Household Rules: Rule #4: Subdue self-will in a child, and those working together with God to save the child's soul.I think this rule works in every family, regardless of religious affiliation.  It really is all about the purpose of discipline and the people who are responsible for care-giving. The definition of 'self-will' here refers to the selfish

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-3743880295264442362010-06-15T08:22:00.000+08:002010-06-15T08:22:00.271+08:00

A week or so back, I wrote about visiting the National Museum and International Museum Day 2010.  Stardust and I (and the reluctant Aged Ps) did actually go to the National Museum that day, but it was crowded and noisy, so we wandered through a few exhibits and decided to call it a day. I promised Stardust that we would visit the museum later that week so that he could really enjoy the new

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-49544132641625381262010-06-14T08:21:00.023+08:002010-06-14T08:21:00.257+08:00

Eating: Chicken Katsu Curry with peas and carrots McCain Smiley Faces Drinking: Mango juice Watching: 1. District 9 - brilliantly constructed, thought-provoking and hideously gruesome.  Highly recommended. 2. The Brothers Bloom - I always promise myself that I will not pick up another Adrien Brody film, but this one had Mark Ruffalo in it so I could not resist.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-12013799935156045932010-06-11T08:30:00.000+08:002010-06-11T08:30:00.344+08:00

Today, I left the kitchen window open all morning whilst I was downstairs at the playground with Stardust. Stupid,      Stupid,           Stupid me. I came back to find that my kitchen and dining room had been tastefully decorated with a multitude of golden glistening drops of very, very wet bird muck. The culprit was sitting the lip of the kitchen sink, chirruping proudly at us. It would not

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-69143510047369215162010-06-10T08:08:00.001+08:002010-06-10T08:59:31.227+08:00

This daddy is totally awesome!  I am really impressed by the things that he creates for his children - his toys look cool, encourage imaginative play and (best of all) are cheap as free.  I also like the fact that this daddy doesn't limit himself to traditional 'manly' creative outlets like woodworking and metalworking, but is adept at sewing, embroidery and knitting, putting a masculine spin on

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-60812400566036400052010-06-09T16:16:00.027+08:002010-06-09T16:16:00.262+08:00

1. Made 5 litres of pork stock from leftover pork ribs 2. Mopped floor 3. Cleaned paint off sticky little fingers 4. Mopped paint off floor 5. Repaired dismantled toy xylophone 6. Disentangled 3 foot long slinky from the coffee table 7. Cleaned porridge off sticky little face 8. Mopped porridge off floor 9. Successfully conducted the Hunt For The 100th Piece Of A 100 Piece Duplo Set 10. Mopped

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-88834132099783361202010-06-08T08:44:00.027+08:002010-06-08T08:44:00.052+08:00

...markers.Just in case you're wondering, I didn't freak out over his attempt to draw tiger stripes on his face.  Stardust actually went to a party where they had face painting and he was trying to recreate the event.  I took him to the mirror and showed him that if the ink doesn't come off then it will stain his face for a long time because marker pen ink is not always washable like face paint.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-67869609144266042022010-06-07T08:31:00.001+08:002010-06-07T08:31:00.763+08:00

Here are my thoughts on Susanna Wesley's Household Rules: Rule #3: They are required to take medicine without complaining.I like the fact that Susanna Wesley specifically states that the child should not complain about having to drink bitter medicine.  There is nothing more off-putting than a whining and complaining child.  A child who sees fit to whine and complain about medicine is one who has

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-80288501745129125312010-06-04T21:32:00.006+08:002010-06-04T21:32:01.189+08:00

I'm teaching Sunday School to the pre-nursery kiddies this month.  The kids are all around Stardust's age - from 18 months to 3 years old.   I hope I survive. Have a good weekend!

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-76639567868659110112010-06-03T08:34:00.000+08:002010-06-03T08:34:00.323+08:00

Celeste and I are having some teething problems. After using a PC for nearly twenty years (yes, my family was one of those progressive families that purchased a computer way back when screens were green.), converting back to the Apple Computer is a little bit strange.  As much as I adore Celeste, I have to get used to her shortcuts and her bizarre US keyboard that has all the punctuation in the

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-47369663609010917692010-06-02T19:51:00.007+08:002010-06-02T20:31:49.915+08:00

Eating: Barbequed pork ribs shellacked with honeyBlanched green leafy vegetables Potato wedgesRice Drinking:Passionfruit and orange juice Watching:1. The Good, the Bad, the Weird This. Film. Is. Genius.(MDH says: A western set in the east, huh...does that make it a Noodle Western?) 2. The Imaginarium of Doctor ParnassusIt was very, very odd.  Okay, maybe it was odd because the lead actor died

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-25804513192472720102010-06-01T08:30:00.034+08:002010-06-01T08:30:00.434+08:00

(7:30am, Stardust has just woken up) Stardust: Mumby, Mumby!  Moon next to me! TSCD: I don't understand.  Where was the moon? Stardust: Moon next to me!  Moon next to me! TSCD: In your room? Stardust: Noooo, moon next to me, moon in the clouds!  I see the clouds, I climb up the clouds, I sit on the moon! TSCD: You sat on the moon? Stardust: I sit on the moon!  I sit on the moon; I sit like this.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-60541229410368867212010-05-31T08:55:00.059+08:002010-05-31T08:55:00.173+08:00

As you can tell from the image, MDH and I decided to join the cult of Apple with the purchase of our sexy new assistant, the iMac. Her name is Celeste.  She is named after a character in a book that MDH and I are fighting over. *pause to gaze adoringly at 21.5 inch screen* (Why, hello there, Beautiful.) I must say that now that I actually own an iMac, I understand what all the hype is about.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-15455586426965824222010-05-25T08:01:00.000+08:002010-05-25T08:01:00.227+08:00

Here are my thoughts on Susanna Wesley's Household Rules: Rule #2: As children they are to be in bed by 8 p.m.Stardust's bedtime is around 8 to 8:30pm (although on special occasions, he is allowed to stay up past 9:30pm) and several of my peers feel that he sleeps too early. The reason why I chose 8pm as Stardust's bedtime is I want him to have a good, long sleeptime and wake up fresh at around

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-26216034632458659402010-05-24T07:33:00.000+08:002010-05-24T07:33:00.439+08:00

This week, Stardust's latest pre-bed routine includes a quick runthrough of what MDH and I like to call the 'Musical Geek War'.  Two Yale undergraduates are currently involved in a battle to determine who can play a recognisable song using the most unlikely of instruments.  It starts off with a Kurt and a simple recorder- the bane of most childhood school music programmes. 'Tother student

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-70227777345295954852010-05-22T06:04:00.002+08:002010-05-22T06:04:00.497+08:00

So, this Sunday (23rd May) is International Museum Day 2010 and all the museums in Singapore are having an open house!  It's a good opportunity to bring along the family and have a day out. My dad is a big fan of museums and I have inherited his love for them.  I remember the first museum I ever really loved was the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum - just seeing the Spirit of St Louis 

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-82669075969795563542010-05-20T10:50:00.002+08:002010-05-21T15:02:46.990+08:00

My beloved computer finally kicked the bucket this morning.  Rest in peace, Dellbyr - we had 6 good years together and they were good times.  Good times.  *momentary pause to reflect on the good times* I am using the Aged P's computer today (on the pretext of researching new computers) but until we purchase a new desktop, blog posts will be sporadic. Any recommendations will be greatly

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-23287455635238896912010-05-19T07:29:00.130+08:002010-06-12T15:12:09.727+08:00

So here's my thoughts on Susanna Wesley's Household rules, starting with Rule #1: Eating between meals is not allowedMealtimes are very stressful over at my house.  Stardust and I used to have regular battles over food.  This is probably my fault to begin with - I started weaning Stardust onto solid foods when he was 6 months old (the usual recommended age for starting a child on solids) and I

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-39310513901330184082010-05-18T08:23:00.019+08:002010-05-18T14:36:46.011+08:00

Stardust: Thank you God for the morningtime, and for Mummy, and for Daddy.  Thank you for a nice playground time with my friend.  Please help me to be a good boy and grow up strong and healthy...and please help me to keep my underpants dry.  In Jesus's name I pray, AMEN.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-55169712344213222202010-05-17T07:49:00.005+08:002010-05-17T07:49:00.419+08:00

Well, we're back in the Small Island now.  I've been sweating so much that I look like a melted candle.  Poor Stardust has developed a sweat rash over his chest. The humidity level here is so high, I feel like I'm swimming.  Or drowning. It should be illegal to have weather like this.  I need to move to Camelot.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-58039463653843150322010-05-14T10:07:00.000+08:002010-05-14T10:07:00.843+08:00

I have recently become acquainted with the "mother" of the Methodist Church, Susanna Wesley.  She was the mother of 19 children - two of whom are associated with the foundation of the Methodist Church - John and Charles Wesley.  In a time when women were illiterate, it was she who actively pursued an education and was fundamental in homeschooling her own children. I am especially impressed with

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-77034661975152834502010-05-13T21:13:00.002+08:002010-05-13T21:13:00.213+08:00

The world must look really different from up there.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-57909675604118909752010-05-12T08:30:00.002+08:002010-05-12T08:30:00.408+08:00

I have not seen any swings at any of the playgrounds in Singapore for a long, long time. MDH and I think the absence of swing sets in Singapore is due to the overwhelming presence of concerned parents who view swings as the breeding ground for Broken Bones and Nosebleeds.  However, I am inclined to believe that these parents are hardly likely to bring their kids to the outdoor playground which

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-22449887859956386112010-05-11T08:52:00.001+08:002010-05-11T08:52:00.237+08:00

We're travelling back to the Other Big City and it's a long journey, so we stopped over at Mollymook Beach - a sweet little village just as cute as its name.  As we were getting ready for breakfast, a chorus of chirrups sounded outside our room.  We pushed the curtains aside to find a small band of sparrows and a few parakeets waiting patiently on the balcony.  They eyed us expectantly. What

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-45174985179728633762010-05-10T08:48:00.010+08:002010-05-10T08:48:00.432+08:00

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-47318103895036433362010-05-07T09:48:00.009+08:002010-05-07T09:48:00.474+08:00

So we met up with my mate from Northern City and spent a day along the coastline.  We found this secluded beach and saw, in the distance, a pod of about thirty dolphins leaping and somersaulting their way across the bay.  They were too far away for us to take a picture and even though we joyfully ran along the beach trying to keep up with them, they were much too fast.As my friend and I caught

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-91347519877113997222010-05-06T08:41:00.012+08:002010-05-06T08:41:00.543+08:00

We visited a strawberry farm today but it was too wet and muddy to do any berry picking.  Instead, we tasted Rebello strawberry wines and liquors at the cellar door, and then sat down to eat a gloriously decadent strawberry parfait and wait out the rains in the cafe.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-84769305683093420132010-05-05T08:31:00.048+08:002010-06-10T11:48:46.815+08:00

I have always thought that sign language is like a form of dance - the movement of the hands is greatly enhanced by the expression of the body and face.  Whenever I have had the priviledge of observing the conversation of the deaf, I am always intrigued by how animated their faces become as emotion and imitation are so much a part of communication. So, I've discovered a new set of very

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-79491558231440978302010-05-04T08:04:00.003+08:002010-05-04T08:04:00.473+08:00

This morning, whilst waiting for a friend to fly in from Northern City, we went to play in the field behind the apartment. It was dry but the skies were grey and gloomy so we didn't want to walk too far from shelter. Stardust, collecting as usual, started picking up seedpods that had fallen from the trees. As he pottered around, we found more and more seedpods of different shapes.  Some of

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-56655728645588655052010-05-03T08:41:00.003+08:002010-05-03T08:42:27.733+08:00

...we've got our wellies on.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-87426649356330729412010-04-30T10:17:00.000+08:002010-04-30T10:17:20.526+08:00

This place where we are staying now only has dial-up internet!  Normal programming will resume after the weekend. :) tscd

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-59496298339158069172010-04-28T08:06:00.041+08:002010-04-28T08:06:00.765+08:00

Sheila: Hey TSCD! TSCD: Hey! Sheila: So, I heard you went to the Royal Easter Show last week. TSCD: I did - it was AWESOME.  We saw lots of animals and Stardust rode on a carousel for the first time.  He really enjoyed it. Sheila: Did you watch the racing and diving pigs? TSCD: Yeah, and there was a cow competition so there were all these beefy teenage farmers escorting their prize bulls from the

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-35534867547165823002010-04-27T12:47:00.059+08:002010-04-27T12:47:00.608+08:00

I have ALWAYS wanted to go to a county fair ever since I read about them in 'Farmer Boy', 'Charlotte's Web' and 'Blandings Castle'.  I really like the idea of families from the farming communities coming together to show off their superior skills in animal husbandry, agriculture and craftsmanship...and I've always wanted to witness a pumpkin competition. We got to Sydney just in time to catch

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-11435925632366918502010-04-26T09:09:00.000+08:002010-04-26T09:09:00.695+08:00

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-11052153729851536502010-04-23T09:48:00.001+08:002010-04-23T09:48:00.287+08:00

Day 1: Recuperate from car journey Day 2: Explore local county Day 3: Explore adjoining counties Day 4: Meet up with friend and explore countryside Day 5: Meet up with another friend and explore cityscape Day 6: Travel to seaside town and live in hideous hole cheap motel Day 7: Travel to another seaside town and live in seaside inn

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-5521179282504173532010-04-22T10:09:00.003+08:002010-04-22T14:48:14.802+08:00

1. Keeping a small wiggly child in a carseat for 5 straight hours is like trying to imprison the Kraken. 2. Bringing rice crackers to feed the Kraken with was a brilliant idea. 3. The remake of 'Clash of the Titans' was highly overrated. 4. The Ozzie radio station played a mix of Bach, Country-Western, Cake, Jordin Sparks and Islamic Altar Call. Them DJs must have eclectic tastes. 5. Australia

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-76005666728027331912010-04-21T13:59:00.000+08:002010-04-21T13:59:32.302+08:00

(gentle sounds of snoring) MDH: (bellowing) THE HILLS ARE ALIVE!!!! WITH THE SOUND OF MUU-UU-SICCCC TSCD: Snnnrrrrk...ehhh...what? MDH: (with gusto) WITH SONGS THEY HAVE SUNG FOR A THOUSAND YEEEEEEAAAARRS! TSCD: *coffcoff* Is it...morningtime...? MDH: THE HILLS!!!! fill my heart...mumberdumberling...ddd...neh... TSCD: (looking blearily at clock) It's...freaking...two in the morning!!! Good. 

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-61377736837089131192010-04-20T14:15:00.002+08:002010-04-20T14:15:50.001+08:00

YARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-61910393357527153042010-04-19T09:32:00.011+08:002010-04-20T13:14:50.384+08:00

The voice of Ozzie youth expressed through sidewalk graffiti.  Wholesome.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-41854250104383639042010-04-16T08:18:00.000+08:002010-04-16T08:18:00.348+08:00

It's never to early to start teaching children to respect animals and be gentle with them.  Of course, we already knew that this little mouse was well trained and well cared for and would be gentle with Stardust too - the last thing we would want is for the little mouse to nip the little fingertips and for Stardust to fling the poor creature across the room in shock.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-41423592830977942812010-04-15T08:57:00.059+08:002010-04-15T08:57:00.725+08:00

Prior to takeoff: Explain to Stardust that when the 'Fasten your seatbelt' sign is on, it means that he has to be buckled up in the seat.  Prepare biscuits for takeoff. During takeoff: Allow Stardust a free flow of biscuits to encourage him to swallow and balance his inner ear pressure. Hour 1: Watch 'Fantastic Mr Fox' on video.  Stardust does not appear to understand the concept of headphones

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-17282656943516897052010-04-14T08:12:00.021+08:002010-04-14T08:12:03.024+08:00

In my carry-on luggage: 8 disposable nappies 2 sets of long sleeved pyjamas 2 sets of mealtime equipment (bowl, spoon, fork, sippycup) 1 box of wetwipes 1 sweater (for me) 1 tube of lip balm (mostly for me) In Stardust's carry-on luggage (yes, he has his own bag now): 10 books 4 finger puppets 3 toy cars 1 toy robot 1 trinket keeper containing random junk treasures 1 ziplock bag containing 10

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-6005763905693723262010-04-13T08:00:00.001+08:002010-04-13T08:00:06.869+08:00

Ugh, I am just NOT in the mood for anything today.  Sometimes, I wish this job came with 28 days of annual leave.  I could do with a day off.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-51107035582459336602010-04-12T12:21:00.020+08:002010-04-12T12:21:00.213+08:00

One thing that I've noticed about myself recently is that when I meet people for the first time, I fall into a rhythm of chit-chat that is my style of medical clerking.  Over the weekend, Stardust and I attended a neighbourhood get-to-know-you party and it was so much fun meeting all these mums from different backgrounds.  We have quite an eclectic mix of people where we are staying, probably

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-75097224770291507952010-04-09T07:54:00.036+08:002010-04-09T07:54:00.226+08:00

Since we moved to our new place, I have noticed that the thunderstorms have become much more violent.  I am not sure if it is related to our location, but I certainly find that the wind out here is more destructive and that the crash of thunder really seems to reverberate. Stardust never had a problem with thunderstorms before we moved here - now, the terrible roll of thunder is bound to rouse

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-7662396441034474372010-04-08T08:35:00.000+08:002010-04-08T08:35:00.741+08:00

The Dandelion Seed, written by Joseph Anthony, and illustrated by his wife, Cris Arbo, is a lovely book about the lifecycle of the dandelion flower.  I must admit that I was moved by the image of the little dandelion seed that reluctantly leaves the dandelion plant and through its journey, discovers the world and begins to understand the way things are.  It made me think about how people cling

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-22839301339416906292010-04-07T08:22:00.002+08:002010-04-07T08:22:00.154+08:00

We loves the wading pool, we do, we do indeed.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-63466893996729791182010-04-06T08:19:00.000+08:002010-04-06T08:19:00.797+08:00

Stardust has developed  magpie tendencies and during the course of tidying, I have been finding all these tiny bits of junk that turn out to be part of his treasure trove. He gets pretty upset if I throw them away or if he can't find them, so I decided that it was time he had somewhere to keep all of his shiny baubles.  Traci from Amazing Mae has got a great trinket keeper tutorial which I

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-73831274184006395942010-04-05T08:19:00.065+08:002010-04-05T08:19:00.853+08:00

MDH has planted a little kitchen herb garden on our balcony for me.  So far, we have got two types of basil, a very happy rosemary, a curry leaf plant and a tiny chilli padi shrub (we don't really eat chilli at our house - so this plant is purely for looks.  MDH harvests the chillies for my mum which pleases her to no end.) It's so nice to have some fresh herbs to use!  The flavour is so much

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-49167885722991238952010-04-02T09:28:00.043+08:002010-04-02T09:28:00.415+08:00

About a fortnight ago, the Aged Ps took us to the Botanic Gardens for the Big Band Bash.  We had so much fun!  We brought Stardust's dinner along to keep him occupied and we took turns holding and feeding him so that each of us had a chance to relax and take in the atmosphere. It is such a privilege to be able to take Stardust to listen to live music in the park - the informal setting means that

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-10159746410243117272010-04-01T15:39:00.002+08:002010-04-01T15:39:00.242+08:00

I am a penny-pincher by nature.  I'm not miserly - I like to be generous - but I also like to stretch each dollar as far as possible.  As far as possible, I try to buy things when they go on sale, or I wait until I have a discount coupon.  For household items, I prefer things that are functional as well as decorative. However, there are a few things that MDH and I have indulged in - that is, we

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-52018976735651748002010-03-31T08:40:00.000+08:002010-03-31T08:40:37.889+08:00

I've been wanting to write about Crystal B. jewelry for a long time! I stumbled across her Etsy site some time ago and was intrigued by her handstamped necklaces and her use of colourful silk fabrics which she weaves into flowers.  I liked the way that she mixes materials and reinvents old junk into fancy jewelry, so her site was quickly added to my list of favourites.    Ms B has a site where

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-47704667348098523082010-03-30T08:00:00.019+08:002010-03-30T08:00:03.085+08:00

Ok, so I was flipping through my blogroll and was inspired by Katie Sokoler's method of redecorating her New York flat.  Every so often, she'll change the look of her apartment with some coloured paper and artistic genius.  I looked at this particular post and thought to myself...I could do that! I made some stencils by tracing the pictures from this book onto baking parchment (I don't keep

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-3666679463693297292010-03-29T08:00:00.006+08:002010-03-29T08:00:00.935+08:00

I am in love with this pair of purple suede shoes that I invited home to live with me this weekend.  They are gorgeous and incredibly comfortable!  You will never guess where I got them from.  (Here's a clue: they are from the least fashionable shoe shop one could imagine.) I think I might go and see if I can get some contrasting (green? orange?) suede or satin ribbon to pull through those holes

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-53842282604447392652010-03-26T08:38:00.002+08:002010-03-27T15:32:27.524+08:00

We were so fortunate to come across this book in the library - somebody had left it lying on a table in the Adult Fiction section.  Stardust was immediately drawn to the papercut of a chickadee on the front cover and we just had to borrow it out. This is lovely little book which uses onomatopoeia to describe the different bird songs, which makes it really fun to read.  MDH loves reading it to 

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-74256924128897473652010-03-25T16:00:00.000+08:002010-03-27T15:26:22.497+08:00

It has been raining so much over the last fortnight so we have been stuck indoors most of the day.  Everyday, Stardust looks mournfully at the sky and says 'It's raining' in the saddest little voice, and everyday, I think to myself, 'I must get some rain gear for the two of us'.  It would be so much fun to take him out on a wet day, in a macintosh and wellingtons, and get him to splash about in

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-51552324540427148812010-03-23T21:29:00.000+08:002010-03-27T15:31:16.046+08:00

More of my friends are getting married and having children now, and it's fascinating, watching the way that married life and motherhood changes people.  The women I know who have become mothers have all undergone similar changes.  They have all become gentler people - more patient, more considerate, more careful in their actions and speech. However, I have noticed that not all the changes are

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-45480747743830386502010-03-22T08:00:00.003+08:002010-03-27T15:26:22.497+08:00

Step 1: Take one young child and allow some Messy Painting to occur on a piece of art block paper using a roller brush , a sponge and tempera paints in a dark colour (Stardust chose blue). This is Painting 1. Step 2: Repeat step 1 using tempera paints in a light, bright colour (Stardust chose yellow and orange).  This is Painting 2. Step 3: Carefully prise painting materials from sticky child

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-70282846920211727172010-03-19T17:36:00.003+08:002010-03-27T15:26:22.497+08:00

My new Brother and I have been working pretty hard (in my opinion) and I have been trying out some simple sewing projects, following tutorials from the internet.  There are so many cool sewing tutorials out there, once one starts looking.  I have wanted to make some fabric doorstops, ever since I saw some gorgeous ones at Laura Ashley.  Red rubber doorstops from the market at cheap at $2 for a

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-10684240682322683112010-03-17T21:44:00.000+08:002010-03-27T15:26:22.497+08:00

I like to show Stardust paintings and photographs, just to see what his reaction is to them.  He particularly enjoys Van Gogh paintings, probably because the colours are always so bright and vibrant.  I just let him talk to me about what he sees.  His mind often takes us to strange places, so I have the most surreal conversations with him. TSCD: This is a painting of Van Gogh's bedroom in Arles.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-74139512315590458322010-03-16T21:22:00.000+08:002010-03-27T15:35:07.098+08:00

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-5645040146714914902010-03-15T08:25:00.008+08:002010-03-27T15:35:07.098+08:00

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-71782927807365093082010-03-12T16:15:00.002+08:002010-03-27T15:35:07.099+08:00

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-78990400115286235572010-03-11T16:47:00.003+08:002010-03-27T15:35:07.099+08:00

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-67149431889502400362010-03-10T12:14:00.001+08:002010-03-27T15:35:07.099+08:00

We're all going on holiday to Kota Kinabalu!  Hooray!  It's been ages since we have had a holiday.  Apparently, the hotel we will be staying in has got a great wireless connection, so I will be updating as we go along. This will be Stardust's first plane ride where he gets a seat all to himself.  I've packed a big of goodies for him to keep him occupied during the trip.  My biggest concern

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-10353604038390755302010-03-05T08:30:00.005+08:002010-06-10T11:52:49.094+08:00

Stardust loves this clip.  He points at it and says 'Pika! Pika!' and laughs hysterically.  Who could resist these funny little rodents?  Even Sir David has an idiotic grin on his face when he watches it from behind a rock.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-40497729196637627022010-03-04T08:00:00.010+08:002010-06-10T11:53:24.777+08:00

I'm not sure why Stardust enjoys this video.  I think it is solely because of the llamas.  And the fact that they are wearing hats.  That totally cracks him up.  As to the nature of the dialogue, all I can say is...there is no cussing.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-68078878611226797662010-03-03T20:35:00.001+08:002010-06-10T11:54:14.156+08:00

As you can probably tell by now, Stardust's favourite videos tend to be music related.  This particular video elicited a very emotional response from him and he even shush-ed me with a wave of his tiny hand when I started talking to him halfway through the video. The Aged P's purchased a copy of her debut album, but he doesn't appear to enjoy listening to it.  I think that this is because the

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-90782639126944151672010-03-02T10:31:00.007+08:002010-06-10T11:54:14.157+08:00

Israel "Iz" Kamakawiwo'ole does a lovely interpretation of this classic song and I'm in awe of his breezy and effortless vocals, especially when I consider that he probably has breathing difficulties (watch the video and you'll see why).  I'm sure you've heard this piece before, seeing that his recording has been used in several movies.  Stardust instantly relaxes when he listens to hawaiian

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-53077865347837985002010-03-01T10:00:00.029+08:002010-06-10T11:54:14.157+08:00

I have always felt that Ernie from Sesame Street had all the best songs.  He got to sing 'Rubber Duckie' and 'Imagine That' and 'One Fine Face'.  This song about visiting exotic places is particularly beautiful and makes for a great lullaby as well.  Stardust could listen to this song forever and ever.  It is one of my 'go-to' songs if Stardust is particularly fretful.

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-31008139908999077122010-02-26T13:00:00.024+08:002010-06-10T11:54:14.158+08:00

Stardust calls this the 'World Video'. Sometimes, in order to unwind in the evenings, we'll often sit together and watch one of our DVD programmes.  At the moment, we are ploughing our way through the BBC Planet Earth series (which, I understand, has also been shown on the Discovery Channel).  I like the fact that Stardust enjoys watching nature programmes, and the fact that the three of us

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-74706594608461230922010-02-25T20:31:00.005+08:002010-03-27T15:26:22.499+08:00

Stardust's bedtime ritual is as follows:1. Milk2. Storytime3. Devotions4. Prayers5. Cuddles6. SleepWhilst Stardust drinks up his nightcap, he's usually allowed the privilege of watching a video on youtube. It's fun letting him watch a new video every evening, just watch his reaction. Now that Stardust is older and better able to express his opinion, he will occasionally request certain videos

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-38640192315993375442010-02-24T17:11:00.002+08:002010-03-27T15:26:22.500+08:00

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-53082685069227841292010-02-23T11:47:00.002+08:002010-03-27T15:26:22.500+08:00

Sleep is a precious commodity in this house, which is why we have taught Stardust to sleep on his own. He is an independant little soul and treasures his privacy. In fact, we realised that he slept longer hours when we moved him to his own room! Although I do envy my peers whose children fall asleep in their arms or who snuggle up to them at night for comfort, I do not regret the decision to

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-80420802738060110192010-02-20T21:22:00.002+08:002010-03-27T15:34:11.713+08:00

MDH: So. TSCD: Yes?MDH: When are we having another baby?TSCD: I don't know. When do you think?MDH: Let's aim for when Stardust turns 3. Or thereabouts.TSCD: Ok. But...MDH: Hmm?TSCD: This sounds stupid but...whenever I think about being pregnant again, I feel really put off by the memory of nauseating all-day sickness and...and...MDH: And..?TSCD: And I only just started buying clothes again!

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-79552987508060028512010-02-18T16:33:00.002+08:002010-03-27T15:34:11.713+08:00

Well, we had a pretty busy weekend, what with visiting relatives and shedding money and stuffing our faces with pineapple tarts and impromptu music rehearsals. What a whirlwind of noise and activity! Stardust has collected enough angpow money from his well-wishers to fund a term or two of enrichment classes (we decided that it would probably be in his best interest to invest in his future,

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-35053757666940303862010-02-12T17:04:00.003+08:002010-03-27T15:34:11.714+08:00

Well, the Outlaws are leaving today and I do feel sorry to see them go. Stardust has had SO much fun with them around, and it was nice having the company. They are leaving just in time - I wouldn't know what to do with them during the bustle of the Chinese New Year period!This afternoon, I have been mostly stuffing AngPows with $2 notes in preparation for the great annual shedding of cash. Being

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-34486059549821942492010-02-11T16:44:00.002+08:002010-03-27T15:34:11.714+08:00

For my birthday, after much wheedling and coercion, my parents finally agreed that they would give me a new brother.Here he is:Isn't he lovely and red?I opted for the cheapest, most basic model available because - let's face it - I am no surgeon and I cannot sew to save my life (or anyone elses for that matter). I vaguely recall sewing a pair of electric blue boxer shorts during home economics

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13004477.post-25643398167396290872010-02-09T14:44:00.015+08:002010-03-27T15:34:11.715+08:00

I like to try and support small businesses as much as I can. Small businesses are always friendlier, more personable. Now that many small companies have started stores online to save on overhead costs, it is so important for them to maintain good customer service. I was a little bit apprehensive when LuShae Jewelry contacted me via email and asked me to write a review of the store. I have never

tscdhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12333076217095349503noreply@blogger.com0