Elmo, Elmo

Don't know when the fascination starts, but Chloe is so over Elmo.
We get the kids an iPad a few months ago and now they have been You-tubing more than me in my whole life!

Chloe knows where to tab for You-Tube. The screen will be usually be at the History. She then chooses her Elmo clip. She even knows how to pause/play, go back to History page. She will only get lost when she accidentally tabs on 'Featured', 'Most Viewed' etc. Then she will bring the iPad to me and say 'Elmo, Elmo'. Once I tab on the History page again for her, she will carry her iPad to wherever she was sitting and continue You-tubing.

Very often, Lucas and Chloe will fight for the iPad. They wanted to play and You-Tube at the same time. I have to set a time limit for each of them.

Gadgets, oh gadgets!

Is it Normal?

Last month, there was parents teachers meeting and I went to see Lucas's class teacher. These are some of the observations she made:
- he doesn't participate in activities like singing and dancing. He is watching and know what's going on, but just don't participate. His expression is like 'why are you asking me to do all these silly things!'
- He is very gentle, never throw any temper. Only once, I caught him asking his friend 'Can you just shut up!' when his friends was singing too near his ears. He already gave his friend the warming when he covered both his ears with his hands.
- He does participate in other activities. He puts up his hand to answer questions and walks up to talk.
- When he was standing in front of his classmates, and did not get the answer right, he feels a bit shy and curve his lips. But it is not a problem because he usually gets it right.

What does that tell you??
He is going to be a book worm and a 'kaki bangku' (not sporty type)?

Today, I had a meeting with his Music teacher and ICT teacher. This is what his Music teacher said. 'I am concerned for him. He does not join his friends no matter how much fun they are having. When I asked him to join, he will just give a smile. But he is listening and observing every thing. One day, I passed by his class and saw him standing at the corner while his friends were riding bicycles. I asked him why and he said 'they are cycling too fast. I need to protect myself. They might hit me'. He is very smart and he thinks differently'

I am concerned too now. Is this just him and normal for children his age?

The ICT teacher observation was rather vague. I think she doesn't know exactly which is Lucas. She said 'He need a lot of assistance to do his work to navigate the mouse.' I know this is not true at all. Lucas can start Internet Explorer, go to Favourites and click on his 'Playhouse Disney' and plays all the games and activities. He can even print the pictures till the printer ink cartridges ran out of ink. He is expert in playing computer games and has no problem navigating the mouse.

Should I get him assessed by a specialist to see if his behaviour is normal? Or just let it be?

Updates, Changes & Antics

I just realised it has been more than a month since my last post. I have been busy and lazy...more of latter.

So, what happened since then?
The 2 kids were down with serious fever. Chloe had it first. One morning she just woke up with warm body. Her temperature did get to 40 degree Celsius. I had to monitor her very closely. Gave her Paracetamol every few hours. Even had the Voltran (pill that stick to the rectum to bring the fever down quickly) ready. After 2 days her fever came down to about 38.5 but her nose started running and coughing. All in all, it took her one week to recover and 3 visits to the paed.

Of course, after she recovered, the virus got passed to Lucas. Lucas fever was very high, quite often above 40 degree Celsius. On the first day, I gave him Paracetamol to see if his body can fight the virus. After 12 hours, his fever was still high. Took him to the paed who gave him a Voltran. The paed was so good that he did not even realised that something went inside his rectum. That night, I had to wake up every 4 hours to gave him medicine. The paed gave a schedule alternating the different type of fever medicines. His fever took 4 days to come down. After that, his voice became coarse, till today. I'm wondering if I should take him to the paed again. His voice has been coarse for longer than usual. It took him a week to recover and also 3 trips to the paed.

That was my stressful, anxiety filled 2 weeks!

When the kids have fever, I let them sleep on my bed. It is easily to me to put my hand on their forehead to gauge the temperature. If it is very warm, I will get the thermometer. If it is mildly warm, I'll go back to sleep. Chloe was so restless when she was on my bed. She tossed and turned and couldn't sleep tight. The minute I put her back on her baby cot, she was knocked out immediately. On the other hand, Lucas loved it when he is sick. He gets to sleep on my bed. Even after he has recovered, he said 'Mommy, I am really sick. Can I sleep with you?'

Now that they are both back to normal (except for Lucas's coarse voice), things are back to normal. I seriously hope they will not catch any virus or bug anytime soon. Very stressful for the mothers when children are sick.

Christmas is commming. The tree is not up as we have not buy it yet. We usually buy the fresh cut tree from Ikea. But Lucas was very excited and we have put up our Christmas table cloth and the angels (decoration on the table). Have to find a day to go to Ikea to get the tree. Buying the tree is easy but transporting a 6ft tree home is difficult in a sedan.

This Friday is Lucas last day for this term. He is baking cookies in school on Thursday and having a Christmas party on Friday. Then he is off for 1 month. We planned some short holidays too. Driving south to Singapore for the weekend to see the Christmas lights on Orchard Road. 2 weeks later, we will be driving north to Penang to visit some relatives. Hope we get some nice weather to go to the beach.

Christmas shopping....managed to get some gifts for people we are meeting in Singapore and Penang. The rest.....will see when I have time to go shopping. It is more of I don't know what to buy!

As for me, I'm busy trying to finish a trilogy by Stieg Larsson. Good read.

Chloe's Pictures

Look at my bunny teeth!

I'm unlike my brother, I'm not afraid of birds.

I can sit on a balloon without bursting it.

Happy 4th Birthday, Lucas

Time has come and gone - Lucas celebrated his 4th birthday. Nothing fancy but he was pleased with his celebration.

Too shy to pose for the camera. Lucas with the cupcakes he is sharing with his class-mates.

Cupcakes that says ' U R 4 Lucas', just as how he wanted them.

Lucas is pleased with his Mr Perfect cake.

Lucas together with the October kids in the neighbourhood party.

Can't Wait to be a Toddler

There is a saying that the second child will grow up faster and I find there is some truth in the saying.

Chloe is barely 15 months and she doesn't want to eat her baby food. She doesn't want to eat her cereal for breakfast. Instead she wants toast with jam.

She stopped eating her porridge and baby pasta. She is now eating the same food as the rest of us. Rice with soup, noodles (she even liked la la (clams) beehoon), pizza etc. Deciding what to eat is a challenge now that I have to consider food that Chloe and Lucas can eat and consciously reduce the salt, sodium, preservative.

Mind you, Chloe only has 7 teeth but the 7 teeth sure can do wonders.
Lucas was only into the adults food when he was 2+ year old.

Chloe is also talking a lot earlier than Lucas. She can said a number of words and the pronunciation is very good. She can says 'Momy, Dady, car, share, apple, one, bread, raisin, cheese, rotan, open, shoes, remote, cream, hair, more' quite well.

Shy and Cool

The last time I dropped Lucas to school (Dominic usually send Lucas to school in the morning), his teacher asked me if Lucas is very shy. That was like a week after he had started school. He did not talk much in school. I told his teacher that once he warmed up, he talks non-stop. The teacher said OK, she will wait for the moment he opened up.

Today, I dropped Lucas to school. His teacher had a chat with me. She said 'What you said is true. Lucas is very chatty and he likes talking to older children. But I also observed that he is very cool. He doesn't want to be involved in some of the activities'. I told her, 'He does not like to participate in singing, dancing or anything like that. He looks bored and his expression is like 'why are you making me doing all these silly things' '. She nodded and said yes. Then the teacher said 'Let's see how we can help him on this.'

I am grateful that the teacher is paying close attention to his social development and finding ways to improve it.

Star of the Week

I think Lucas is one of those students who fall under 'teacher's pet' category.
During his short term with the school so far, he had received 4 smiley stickers. The teacher gives him a smiley sticker when he behaves himself. He said two stickers were for sitting properly (crossed legs and hands on the lap so that friends will not step on them), one for queuing in line, and another one for helping the teacher to shut down computers after class! Well done, Lucas.

Today, he was given a certificate and a special sticker 'Star of the Week Award'. He was so happy and so are we. Dominic was teasing him asking if he can be a star at home as well. Yes, if only he is a star at home too............

Birthday Preparation

Lucas is turning 4 in a few days and at this age, he knows how he wants to celebrate his birthday. These are some of his wishes:

Lucas: I want to invite E, C, J to my party.
Me: How about we bring a cake to your school and you can celebrate with all your friends?
Lucas: OK
Me: (relief)

Lucas: I want a big sign that says "Happy Birthday Lucas" so that everyone know it is my birthday.
Me: OK.
Dom: Maybe we do a DIY.
Me: It would be cheaper to buy one and recycle every year than the ink cartridges.
Me: (found one at Toy R Us for RM8 but not sure if it meets his expectation)

Lucas: I want a stop watch for my birthday.
Dom: That's not too difficult.

Lucas: I want a purple bedsheet with pictures of cars.
Me: I don't know where to find it. If I see it, I will buy for you.

I wonder what would be his wish list next year.

You Don't Know Anything

Last weekend was quite a long weekend with 2 days of public holidays coupled with weekends. Dominic was travelling and I took the kids to stay with my parents.
Two third of the journey, Lucas suddenly remembered he did not bring any books with him. He insisted that I turned back to the house and I refused. We already had been on the road for 40 mins. He was annoyed. Then he said there is 24 hours a day, which is correct. The time he wakes up till the time he goes to bed is 24 hours. I told him it is only 12 or 13 hours. The other hours are when he was sleeping. He did not believed me and was annoyed even more. Then he blurted out 'Mommy, you don't know anything. You only know I have a lot of taxis!' I replied, 'If you said so'. He quickly added 'Yes, I said so'. What a fierce boy. Do you call this parent abuse?

Chloe is not any better either. One morning, I was picking her up from her bed in the morning. She asked 'milk, where?'. Then during breakfast, while I was feeding her cereal, she pointed at her yogurt and said 'Now. now.'

Wow....they are not even 5 and already talk to parents this way. Am I the only parent who get abused by the kids?

Change of Career?

My work from home job is ending end of this year. I have been looking for jobs with flexible hours and so far failed miserably. There is nothing close to what I have now. So, I am wondering if I can switch career at my age??!!

Selling my junk/excess on e-Bay? Was told transaction costs are high (have to pay e-Bay and Paypal) and consume lots of time for a small profit.
Be a property agent?
Be an 'investment' adviser for ourselves (with our peanut capital to go with it)?
Be a full-time homemaker and fire my maid?

Any better ideas?

First week of School

Lucas had 5 days of school and now he is on 10 days break!
What a life - holidays are more than school days.
Thank goodness, he enjoys going to his new school. He starts at 8.30am, and finishes at 1.15pm. During that period, he has his snack time and lunch in school. I thought I can escape the one hour nagging him to eat, but it was not meant to be. When I asked him if he finishes all his food, he replied, 'I had 3 spoons and then I throw away the food.' So, when he gets home, I still give him his lunch, albeit a smaller portion. Yesterday, he said he finished all his food in school. I did not believe him and made him eat half a sandwich at home. 20 mins later, he said 'Mommy, I got stomach ache. I think I ate too much.' :)

His classroom is filled with gadgets and apparatus to play. He loves it. The gadgets and apparatus are all laid out on the tables/floor space - not stored in any storage box - hence easy to access all the toys. He zooms right into play dough first thing - that's because I ban him from playing play dough at home - messy. He is able to tell me in chronological order what he does in school. I take this as good note and the activities are interesting enough for him to remember. Yesterday, out of sudden, he told me 'We watch Good Morning (short story) 3 times and it is so boring!'

Some of the parents are the ugly/selfish few. See, the parents walk the kids to their classroom. That means, we have to park the car. Nursery has different hours from primary and secondary. Since it is not a peak hour, there are plenty of parking space. Of course some of the parents want to park the closest to the classrooms, meaning parking at the road curb and obstructing the traffic, when 10 steps away, there are plenty of parking space. How are these parents going to set a good example to the children! Sometimes, I feel like telling the parents off, but decided to keep my mouth shut. I'll probably talking to the wall.

Chloe's Keeping Herself Busy

Pushing stroller for my dolly


Posing with my brother's sunglasses


All ready for school but I have to wait for another year and more.

First Day of School

Lucas all excited about his first day at this new school. Dominic sent him to school on his bicycle.

Holiday Started and Ended

Lucas had his school holidays last month and he started his new school yesterday.
During his holidays, we did not plan much activities for him and surprisingly the days passed rather quickly. He spent his morning playing with Chloe with some painting and pasting, afternoon watching TV, later afternoon outdoor with his bicycles, playground and trampoline at neighbour's place, night with some reading before going to bed. On one of the weekends, we took the kids to Kuantan, the nearest decent beach around. Lucas loved it so much that he kept asking to go to Kuantan again. He loved the kiddy pool where there were other kids as well. He also loved the pool bar - once he insisted on having a drink at the pool bar. When I asked him what he wanted to drink, he replied 'let me sit down at the water stool first. Then I decide what I want to drink' - like an adult, he savoured his strawberry smoothies in the pool bar.

Meanwhile, Chloe enjoyed the sea. She loved it when the waves splashed on her. She picked up anything she can get from the sea. Once she picked up baby fish which Dominic had to release to the sea. Both kids loved the sand.

For the parents, it was tiring. Both Dominic and I were on 24 hours duty. We fed them, bathed them, entertained them, and can't go to sleep until they were asleep. It was harder for them to entertain themselves as there is no familiar place and toys like at home. With the limited space in the hotel room, it was a challenge trying to contain the energy which they had loads.

All in all, it was fun time for the kids and it is all that matters.

Loud and Tough

Chloe is just the opposite of Lucas in terms of character. Chloe talks loud that the neighbours can hear her. She is not shy of trying to say the words out loud. That's why she is blah blahing all the time. She walks when she is still not very steady.
Lucas is just the opposite. He is soft spoken and gentle. He doesn't talk loud and will only say the word when he is very confident. When he is 1, he doesn't say much. He only started after he turned 2, and his words were very accurate. Less blah blahing. When he walked, he is already very steady, no falling down. That tells us their characters.

Chloe is tough. She makes her displeasure known. No doubt about that. There is no wrong or right character, or better and worse, it is just them. We always joked that next time in school, Lucas will get bully and Chloe will come to his rescue. She will tell the bullies 'Hands off my brother'. We have no doubt about that too!

Biggest and Smallest

I bought some books for Lucas, preparing for his school holidays. He was so excited, he started reading the books and doing the exercises. Then, one of the exercise is circle the biggest number (from a list of 4 numbers) and cross the smallest number (from a list of another 4 numbers). He doesn't understand the meaning of biggest and smallest number. I tried to explain by saying 'If you count from 1, the biggest number will be the number you reached last. The smallest number is the number you reached first'. He doesn't get the explanation and got most of the exercise wrong.

Later that night, I asked Dominic if he has better explanation. He said the same thing as me:( Now, we have to think harder on how to explain the concept to him. Is this the beginning of a more difficult explanations to come? If he learns new concept from me, I am very happy that I can 'educate' him. It's the parents' job and not tuition teachers' job, right?

Last Week of School

Lucas is in his last week of school with his current playschool. It is sad to have him to move to a new school, but I suppose we have to move on. He truly enjoyed himself there - the teacher, his classmates, activities that they did. I like that school too. One an a half year ago, I was desperately looking for a school for him when we moved to this current place. I took him to 2 others playschool in the neighbourhood for trial classes. He did not like them at all. I weren't that impressed either. On the second day of trial, he cried when we are at the compound and he refused to get out of the car. I did not want to force him. Then I found this current school. It was a bit far from the house. Lucas knows what he wants, very precisely. After his first day trial, I asked if he wants to come back and he nodded his head. I must said this is the best decision we made for his schooling. He enjoyed learning so much - that's a good start for young children.

Now, I hope he will enjoy his new school just as much. Or else, I'm in trouble.

I tried to prep him about his last week of school - he won't see his teacher and classmates. Instead, he will have a new teacher and friends.

Me: Lucas, this week is your last week of school in PJ. Then you will have holidays and T starts on Sept 1.
Lucas: Why can't I stay at PJ?
Me: You are too big to go to PJ. You have to go to big boys school.
Lucas: But Y (his classmate) is 6 years old and she is still in PJ. S (his other classmate) is 5 and he is still in PJ. I am only three and three quarter.
Me: Urg.....

Dominic said I should just tell him it is too far to drive him there. Knowing him, he will answer 'But you drive me to school everyday. Why not tomorrow?'. How to out talk him? I know these because we had this kind of conversation earlier.

Before leaving for school,
Me: Lucas, wear your own school shoes. (I always wear for him and decided that he needs to do it himself. I knew he knows how to wear his shoes and socks because he did it in school)
Lucas: You wear for me.
Me: No, do it yourself.
Lucas: You wear for me everyday, why not today?
Me: Urg...

Going to the toilet. I always take him to the toilet and again decided he needs to do it himself and he knows how to do it.
Lucas: Mommy, I want to go pee.
Me: Go on your own, you know how to do it.
Lucas: But you do it for me all the time.
Me: I have changed my mind. I am not doing for you from now on. You have to do it yourself (sounds like I am smarter now, isn't it?)
Lucas: You are not allowed to change your mind!

Walking & Chatting Away

Chloe started walking a week before she turned one, and Lucas started walking a week after he turned one.

Now, the girl is half running when she walks. Her walking is still not very steady and she balances herself by raising both her arms up. That means she moves a lot faster. The stairs gate has to be closed at all times. With her new found mobility, she wants to go out all the time. She will say 'ka-i ka-i' (go for a walk) and then point to her shoes and the door. She can get quite persistent.

She is also learning to talk. Blah blah blah all the time. She can says a few word if we listen carefully.

One day, she did something that annoyed Lucas. I can't remembered what it was. They get into each others nerve rather often now. Lucas smacked her and walked away. Chloe followed him and then smacked him back! Things are not going to get easier from now on.

Front Seat

I did not noticed something at all until this morning. Lucas made a big fuss this morning when I sent him to school. He wanted me to take the car without his car seat. He insisted that I put his booster seat in the front seat. We usually took the car with his carseat planted at the backseat. At 8am in the morning, I am in no mood to scold. So, I gave in and did what he says.
On the journey to school, he was so amused. When I pressed any buttons, he will ask what are the buttons for. He asked almost what are all the buttons for - to wind down windows, screen mist remover, the clock, the radio stations etc. Then he said 'Mommy, I can see so much things here'. It strikes me then that he was always at the backseat and had his view partially blocked by the driver and front seat.

When Daddy found out about this, Daddy was not so amused. Daddy said no more front seat until he is 12 years old. Good luck Daddy. Try convincing him.

Milestone

When I took Chloe for her one year old check-up, I took Lucas along for his check-up. Boy! Both my kids weigh below average. Sounds like I have been starving them.

Lucas weighs 14.3kg and is 103 cm.
Chloe weighs 8.4kg and is 78 cm.

Lucas has turned from an idol babies in terms of eating to nightmare when he was around two and half years old. He is such a fussy eater. No vegetables at all, no matter how finely chopped. No meat. It takes him forever to chew and he ended up spitting the food after keeping the food for 10 mins in his mouth. Fish, sometimes. He only eats mushroom, eggs, beancurd and cheese. I am giving him more noodles with mushroom now. Fruits, he only eats strawberries. He used to eat apples and bananas but not anymore. I have to resort to giving him vitamins with lysine to boost his appetite. In addition, I am massaging him with essential oil which is supposed to boost his appetite as well. His has such dry and sensitive skin. Even his nails are so brittle. I am massaging his nails too with Jojoba oil mixed with some essential oil.

Chloe is a good eater so far but is slowly turning to a nightmare. When both she and Lucas are eating, she will not want her food but instead insist on eating Lucas's food. I have to make sure they don't eat at the same time to ease this commotion. She is more adventurous and willing to try new food and fruits. But, let's not talk too soon. See how she turns into when she is a toddler. Despite eating well, she is still weighs below average.

My task now is to get Lucas to eat more varieties of fruits and vegetables. Maybe I will try fruit juice or smoothies. Let me google the recipe.

Happy 1st Birthday, Chloe

It is Chloe's first birthday today. No big celebration but rather celebration centered around the kids. We had lunch at a restaurant with the grand-parents. Later in the afternoon, Omi came with a home baked cake for Chloe. Dosed both kids with ice creams, chocolates, gummy bears - the best present the kids can asked for.

Our Holidays

Some shots from our short trips to Singapore and Penang.

It Has Been Awhile

It has been awhile since I last post. Life has been hectic and crazy at times.I still work and have no help during weekends. So, weekdays are working days and kids, and weekends are kids and kids. That's life and I believe I am not alone - so I don't feel bad.

Lucas has grown more mature mentally. He was and still is very much protected. Lately, he has been mixing with his classmates who have different personalities than him - good practice for him of what to come when he attends the primary school. He is such meticulous and fussy kid. Things have to be done his way or else he gets upset and angry. Really testing my patience at times. I lost my patience many times and always have remind myself not too..sigh. Physically, he hasn't put on weight for the last one year. He only grows taller, and hence skinner. He is a fussy eater - no vegetables, not meat. He likes cheese, yogurt, mushrooms, tofu, macaroni. Lately, I have been able to get him to drink soup - telling him his muscle will grow bigger if he finishes his soup. Lucas has stopped taking his afternoon nap as well. I figure it is not worth nagging him for 45 mins to nap. He sleeps early without nap, between 8 to 8.30pm.

Chloe on the other hand is giving her brother a good fight. A girl not to be bullied. If Lucas snatches things away from her, she is not going to let him go easily. She even knows how to work Lucas out. One day while they were in their car seats and I was driving, Chloe decided to blow saliva to Lucas. Lucas obviously get upset and told her to stop it. The more Lucas asked her to stop, the more she blew at him. Lucas got so upset and shouted at her. I have to get them to stop. Guess this is only the beginning.

Chloe has 3 teeth - two on the bottom gum and one on top. Thought those teeth come in pair, isn't it? I believe she is more than 8 kgs now. She will have her one year check-up next month. She wants to eat everything, especially the food Lucas is eating. She has cereal and yogurt for breakfast, porridge for lunch and dinner. In between, she has her snacks (cheerios, biscuits) and fruits. Her favourite fruits is apple mix with pear. She doesn't fancy banana anymore. I gave her strawberry once and she developed some rashes! Stopped the strawberry for the time being. Chloe sleeps tighter at night now. She doesn't wake up in the middle of the night crying (hope it stays that way). She sleeps from 8 - 8.30 am to 7.30am and naps twice a day, with about 1 1/2 hr each nap.

Meanwhile, for me, my work contract is until Sept. Most likely there will be no extension this time, as the work load has reduced tremendously. Time to update my CV and keeping my fingers and toes crossed that I will find another flexible job. I have also been into healthy lifestyle lately. Get some essentials oil for the family and trying detox program. And watching World Cup when I can.

Van Gogh or Dilbert?

This is how Lucas drew himself! Very good for his age, I must said... His handwriting is clear and neat too.

His logic reasoning is getting better too. Here are some example:

Me: Lucas, hurry up. Brush your teeth. What are your ears for if you are not listening.
Lucas: I pretend not to have any ears.
Me: Let me pull your ears then you remembered you have ears.
Seconds later - he was asking for his body lotion and I was not listening.
Lucas: Mommy, let me pull your ears. You are not listening to me.

Lucas: Mommy, you, me and Chloe go shopping to buy Mr Day Dream (he is crazy about Mr Men books now).
Me: It is still early. The shop is closed. The shop will only open when you are in school.
Lucas: I don't want to go to school.
Me: You have to go to school. We will buy after your school.
Lucas: No, we go buy now.
Me: I don't know the way to the shopping.
After a few minutes of pestering,
Me: OK, I will go and buy while you are in school. I will give you the book when I pick you up.
Lucas: But, you don't know the way to shopping!.
Me: Urg..I call Daddy and ask him.


Meanwhile, as Chloe grows older, she can express her expression, she is getting more assertive. If Lucas snatched a toy from her, she will answered with 'urgggg', clearly showing her displeasure. When Lucas shouted at her, she will give the same answer. Not a person to be bullied.

My weekend starts today and it's a long weekend. Taking the kids to Singapore. It is going to be Chloe's first trip outside Malaysia.

I just realised I have lost my credit card. Must have dropped out of my wallet when I last used it last Friday, and only realised it now! There is already a RM1500 fraud on the card. Sigh...have to file a fraud report and don't know if I will be seeing that money again. These few weeks have been really lousy - lose unnecessary money like this fraud and buying so darn lousy unit trusts. I need to 'change' fate (chiun wan)

Manicure

What do you do with kids who love colours? One day, I passed by a neighbourhood nail shop and walked in to get the phone number. Lucas saw the nail polish colours displayed on the shelves and were awed by them. He pulled me in and pointed at the nail polishes. The worker was kind enough to let him chose a colour and painted one of his nail. On the way home, he was complaining why only one nail has colour. He wanted another 9 colours for the other nine nails. When he got home, he told his Daddy, 'There were thousands of colours on six shelves'.

On every Tuesday, the shop has 30% off the manicure/pedicure services. Today is Tuesday and I do not have a late afternoon / evening call. And it rained rather heavily. Lucas can't go and play in the garden. He was watching TV again and I wanted him away from the TV box. So, I suggested if he wants all his nails painted this time. Of course, he said YES immediately.

Selecting his nail polish colours

Getting his nails painted

Pleased with his more than rainbow colour nails.

Why he was busy getting his nails painted, I had my pedicure done :)
Let's wait and see what Daddy says when he comes back, and what his teacher will say tomorrow!

TV & Computer

We always tell ourselves not to let our kid be a potato couch or hook into computer games. And somehow, we failed thus far. Lucas is into watching TV. He can spent his whole afternoon, after school and lunch, watching TV. He doesn't mind if the shows are re-run for umpty times. Then, he is into computer interactive games. Playhouse Disney has interactive games for most of its shows and he will somehow managed to navigate the mouse and started playing the games. Pathetic activities for a 3 1/2 years old.
So, I am determined and trying to break his bad habit. I tried to get him to do any other activities other than watching TV and playing games. I got him watercolours to draw - this took 30-45 mins off TV time. When I am not in a conference call late afternoon, I will get him out of the house. We will either go to the neighbour's house jumping on trampoline or in the garden playing with ball, sand, water or cycling.
Now I understand what it means when others said you need to spend time with your kids. The kids need to be encouraged and accompanied to do their activities. If they are left alone or the parents do not have the time, watching TV is the best solution for both the kids and parents. Sad but true.
Everyday, I am thinking what can I do to get Lucas to do to get him off the TV and computer. And when will he be old enough to do this own things without being accompanied 100%. It is not easy.

Sleep, Oh, Sleep

And don't know why, Chloe has been waking up more often in the middle of the night. The last 3 nights, she woke up 3 times at night and she stayed awake for an hour. The first time it happened, I let her cry until she goes to sleep. Then the next morning, Lucas told his teacher 'I'm tired. I didn't sleep well. My sister was crying all night.' Argg....I got the message. The second night, I did not want her to wake Lucas up, so I sleep standing beside her cot, while she sings, happily kicking away. After a while, I couldn't take it anymore. I just bring her to my bed and she felt asleep soon after me ( I guess. I was asleep before her). The third night, I did not want her to expect to sleep on my bed, so, there I was sleep standing again until she dozed off. What a peaceful sleep I had! Hope it will stop tonight - fingers and toes crossed. The first thing I need in the morning is strong coffee.

Meanwhile, Lucas has been just the opposite. He falls asleep before her and sleep thru the night. When I complimented him the next morning, 'You are such a good boy. You came to Mommy's room zero time yesterday'. He gave his proud smile and said 'Thanks Mom'.
Lucas has stopped taking afternoon nap. When I asked him to nap, he will reply 'I am not sleepy at all'. I have stopped pressuring him to take nap. He sleeps much earlier at night 8.30pm and it is better for me and him.

Chloe's Teeth are Out

Oh....after months of false alarm about her tooth coming out, it did finally make its grand entrance. She has 2 teeth on her lower gum. But that doesn't stop her from sucking her fingers all the time.

She is crawling fast, climbing stairs, cruising like a pro and bringing everything her hand can reach down with her.

Assessment

Lucas's assessment to enter the new kindie is finally over. My biggest fear was to get him to the school and get him to be cooperative. I have been preping him a few days before the event. So, finally on the drive to his new kindie, he said:

Lucas: Mommy, I don't want to go to T now. I only want to go when I am 4 years old.
Me: You are only going for 1 hour to meet the teachers and check out the new school.
Dom: You are invited to go to T today. Remembered when we cycled here the last time, the guard won't allow us in.
Lucas: But, I don't like this school. I want the teacher to say they do not want me to come to this school.
Dom: OK, you tell the teacher that and see what the teacher says.

While we were parking the car.
Lucas: Mommy, this is a giant school.
Me: Yes, it is. Let's go check-out the school.

We went to the Administration Office to tell them Lucas is here.
Me: We are here to take the assessment.
Clerk: Lucas , it is?
Me: (puzzled how she knows it's Lucas) Yes.
Clerk: Have a seat outside. The teachers will come and get you.

While hanging around waiting for the teachers to come and get us, there were other parents and their children waiting as well. There were 2 kids doing some kind of work on activity books!. Some were just loitering around like me.
While waiting we walked around to check the campus.

Dom: I like this design. It is just like a college campus.
Me: It is a school campus. (thinking harder, I understand what Dominic meant. The design is very conducive. The center of the place is a green courtyard. The building lined along this courtyard. You can't see the courtyard from outside. If one has to get from one building to another, one has to walk on the courtyard. So, the courtyard is the 'life'. Nice to see the kids there).

Then the teachers came to get us, and we followed them to the classroom. The classroom has a few stations, each with their own apparatus. Lucas sat on the station with paper and scissors. I waited with him for a while and then walked out. Thank goodness he was ok with me leaving the classroom. That was my biggest fear!.

From the window, I saw him cut the paper (to test his motor skill). When he was done, the teacher moved him to another station, where there were watercolours. He said after the test, that the teacher asked him to draw himself. I saw a circle with what looked like eyes, nose, mouth and 2 legs. His third test was to fish number and alphabet from water and sand. Then there were flashcards and numbers. Last task was colouring with crayon. After that, the teacher walked him out. He was first to be done. I suppose that is a good sign?

After the test, we went to the canteen. He had some biscuits and while eating he said:
Lucas: Mommy, I like this.
Me: You like the biscuits or the school?
Lucas: I like both.
Me: You can come to this school for a long long time if you like it. Err...just make sure Mommy and Daddy have enough money to pay for your school fees.

At home:
Lucas: Daddy, I like T school.
Daddy: You said you don't like it earlier. Did you change your mind?
Lucas: Yes, I changed my mind.

Now, we just have to wait for the result.

Born Bossy or True Boss?

When we were younger, we were afraid of our parents. You tried to answer back your parents and see what happened! Now, kids are a whole new bred. The parents are afraid of their kids.

At 7am this morning, Lucas asked for milk. I said wait until the sun is up and the alarm clock goes off at 7.45am. Guess what was his reply ? He said 'You go and make my milk right now. Or else I will smack you.' Aiyo-yo, should I smack him at 7am?

Then after his milk, he asked for junk food. I said no. He then replied 'You cannot say no. You have to give me the answer I want.' I was shocked of course. Then I asked Dominic if we ever talked like this. Dominic candid answer was 'I think he is born a true boss. He talks like one.'

The way Lucas talks, one of these days, he is going to be beaten up by his friends. Maybe this is more effective than me trying to talk logic into him.

How Do They Get Along?

Lucas and Chloe are getting good with each other. They adore each other and sometimes they get into each other nerves, which I suppose is normal. Some interesting incidents.

Chloe was crawling towards the wires and power point.
Me: Chloe, come here. Don't go to the fan.
Chloe: {stopped to look at me momentarily and continued crawling}
Lucas: Chloe, don't go there.
Chloe: {continued crawling to her destination}
Lucas: {wrap both his arms on Chloe's stomach to prevent her from going further}
Chloe: arg-blah blah {protested}

When Lucas snatched a toy from Chloe.
Lucas: Ch-loe. Don't take that.
Chloe: {could not be bothered}
Lucas: {snatched the toy away from Chloe}
Chloe: arg-blah blah {protested and pulled Lucas' hair}
Lucas: Ch-loe, you are such naughty and stubborn.

I was about to feed Chloe medicine for her cough and wheezing.
Lucas: {started sobbing} Mommy, Chloe doesn't like that.
Me: But Chloe needs it. She is sick.
Lucas: {took the medicine and out it far away from me}
Me: Lucas, please give me the medicine.
Lucas: No, I said Chloe doesn't like that. {still sobbing}

When Chloe is awake in the morning.
Chloe: {sit on her babycot facing the door}
Lucas: {started talking and open her room's door}
Chloe: {stand up and get very excited}
Lucas: Good morning, Chloe
Chloe: {dancing happily and gave her brother a big smile}

Photos

The photo shot went well. The photographer would like to do more but the kids were not cooperative. Lucas kept making funny faces and Chloe was tired after half an hour. But we have a number of nice shoots.

Mature Conversation

My little smart aleck is getting smart again. Today we had this conversation.

I'm tucking him to bed.
Lucas: Mommy, you have to sleep with me.
Me: Why?
Lucas: Be-cause, you are my best friend. Best friend sleep over sometimes.
Me: What is sleep over?
Lucas: Sleep over is when 2 people sleep in the same bed.
He must have learned this from TV.

A few weeks ago, we stayed over at my parents' place for the weekend.
Lucas: Mommy, who is your mommy?
Me: Poh-poh is my mommy.
Lucas: Who is your Daddy?
Me: Kung-kung is my daddy.
Lucas: You must be very happy now be-cause your Daddy and Mommy are here.
Does this statement tell me something?? It definitely does!

Mobile Chloe

Chloe is so mobile now and she is not even walking. Can't leave her for seconds. She is crawling and cruising everywhere and her new favourite discovery is toilet. Have to close all the toilet doors now. She also likes to open up the mosquitoes net on the door. She likes the 'click' sound when the magnetic mosquitoes net hit the grill door. When we are upstairs, I always have to close the stairs gate. She can get to the stairs in seconds. Oh...she also figured out how to open and close drawers..and in the process had her tiny fingers squashed now and then. But that doesn't stop her.
At 9 months, she still does not have any tooth. She has been drooling and having itchy gum for months but still no sign. When I applied Bonjela for her today, I do not feel any bump on her gum but she is behaving like her tooth is going to pop up anytime.
We took her for swimming yesterday and she drank some dirty pool water. Now, she has slight fever, running nose and coughing. Sigh..it is going to be a long weekend.

Home Studio

Since last year, one of our mini home projects is to hang the paintings. Well, we did for the paintings we wanted to put up. We still have space on the staircase wall for the kids' photos. So, today, Dominic's good friend, a famous photographer (also our wedding photographer) came over and took some photos of the kids. We turned the living room into a studio. Check out his work .








Will have to wait for the final prints

Good Friday

We had a BBQ on Good Friday. Dominic's specialty dish, the steak, is as good as ever! We had big prawns too and they are just as yummy.
To end the feast, Minnie's Creation, baked him some cute and delicious cupcakes.

Lucas's favourite is biting the bee's and the rabbit's ears off.

Minnie's Creation will also be baking Chloe's and Lucas' birthday cake. Can't wait for the piece of art she will be creating. Can check out Minnie's Creation at facebook.

Assessment for Kindie Entry

I registered Lucas in the neighbourhood school, which has kindie, primary and secondary. And he has to go for assessment before they can accept him! This is the first time Lucas has to do a test and I don't think he knows what is a test. When I asked the school what does he has to prepare, the lady answered very calmly - nothing. All I can do is to tell Lucas 'You have to answer when the teacher asks you a question, and you have to do what the teacher asks you to do'. I heard so much stories about the mother having stress when the kids are taking exam and now I know what that means. It is more the worry of the kids sabotage themselves by purposely not doing what they know, for the reason on known to them.

It's Good Friday today, and we are having BBQ for Dominic's family and relatives. It is going to be surf and turf. Tomorrow, we are going to check out a RM3.5 million apartment - not that we can afford it, just to KPC. No plan for Easter Sunday. Last year, we had gifts for Lucas. This year, we were just too lazy. And annoyed that the boy has been really naughty and stubborn.

School Holidays...Half Way

Lucas had 2 weeks out of his 4 weeks holiday. He said he missed school. It is quite amazing we all survived. Last 2 days, his temper was horrible. He threw things, smacked me and screamed when he doesn't get what he wants. I had enough and punished him today after his lunch. Locked him in his room but he walked out through Chloe's room (both their rooms are inter-connected via the bathroom). I closed the stairs gate, which he hasn't figure out how to open. So, he was trapped upstairs. He kept calling for me and I ignored him. He finally stopped and played by himself upstairs. Half an hour later, I asked him if he is going to behave himself and he said yes. He has mellowed down since then. Managing kids is no easy tasks!
Things he did during his holidays:

Having friends over.

Jump on the trampoline at neighbour's house.

Play in his sand box.

Play in his baby pool.

Photos

Baking cookies.


Lucas's car collection.

Sleeping...Not on the Bed

It is very hard to get Lucas to sleep. Takes easily half an hour to an hour to fall asleep. Sometimes, he was just so tired, he can sleep in any position.

In his car seat

Draped himself over the edge of the bed.

Sleeps on the floor

Crawling

Chloe is crawling. She learns fast. Her development is like overnight. One day she was struggling and crawling backwards. The next day she is crawling all over the room. I thought she would never crawl as she does not like to be on her stomach. She somehow managed to crawl sitting. Not on her stomach. Then, the day after, she can push herself up when she grabs on something. Now, whenever she grabs on anything, she will be standing up. Getting handful - can't leave her for seconds.

Enjoying day out.

Happy girl, and still no tooth.

Whenever she is not sleeping, she will be standing like this waiting to be rescued from her babycot.

How Many Times?

Kids can be like a parrot. Lucas has been quite aggressive lately.....talked like me, at times when I lost my patience!

We were at a supermarket checkout counter and Lucas saw Mentos (candy) and asked to buy.
Lucas: Mommy, I want the yellow Mentos.
Me: No, you have enough Mentos at home.
Lucas: But I want the yellow Mentos.
{this goes on for a few times then he said}
Lucas: Mo-mmy, how many times do I have to scold you! I want yellow Mentos.
Me: NO.
{he made me sounded like I am the naughty one}

Me: Lucas, what did J (his classmate) bring for snacks today?
Lucas: Salad.
Me: So healthy. What did Y (another classmate) bring for snack?
Lucas {busy playing}
Me: What did Y bring for snack?
Lucas: Banana. How many times do I have to explain to you!

Chloe: {pulling Lucas' hair}
Lucas: Chloe, stop pulling my hair.
Chloe: {continued pulling}
Lucas: STOP IT. How many times do I have to tell you to stop pulling my hair!

This incident happened a few months back and thought I should blog it.
Lucas: {spilled milk on the bed}
Dom: Lucas, why did you spill your milk on the bed?
Lucas: Be-cause, you need a little of practice cleaning up!
Dom: {flabbergasted}

Punishment

We gave Lucas a taste of punishment and surprisingly he understands the concept very well. He is always grouchy if we wake him up from his afternoon nap. He has to wakes up at his own terms. We have been tolerating and thought he will get over it. But on Sunday, he was impossible. It was past 6pm and I woke him up. He was in such foul mood and even turn aggressive. First, he said he did not like my shirt (shirt I have been wearing even before he was born) and asked me to change. I was busy feeding Chloe dinner and asked him not to disturb me. Then he goes on and on for 10 mins about my shirt. Even tried to push me to my room to change. My temper is rising. After Chloe finished her dinner, I asked if he wants to go to the playground or go cycling. He said no. Fine. I took Chloe to the garden and he started wailing asking me to go inside the house. Somehow, we managed to calm him down. He said then he wanted to go for a drive. Great, we were planning to drive out to buy dinner. In the car, he said he wanted milk. We told him no. It's dinner time and he can have his milk after dinner. He made such a big fuss. He refused to eat his dinner and still insist that he wants milk. That's it. We had enough of his temper.

We gave him his bath and told him he has to go to sleep hungry. No milk, no reading and we will not accompany him to sleep. After his bath, he has to stay in his room. To our surprise, he did not protest at all! No crying and obediently followed our instruction. Stayed in his own room with the door closed until he falls asleep at 10pm+.

On Monday, he was great. He apologised. He said 'Mommy, I'm sorry. I have been naughty'.

On Tuesday, he did it again. This time, he wanted milk and not dinner. So, we gave him the same punishment. He followed obediently. No protest, no crying.

This morning, he apologised again. He said 'Mommy, I'm sorry. I have been naughty. I will be a good boy on 10 (today's date)'. And he is.

Guess parenting does not get easier with older kids!

Chloe is 8 months old

Today, Chloe is 8 months old. Lucas said she is zero year old. He cannot compute in months yet. Again, Chloe celebrated with a visit to the doctor. She had the same celebration last month. There is this strong bug that has been going around. Lucas caught the bug first. Started with running nose but luckily no fever. Then I got the bug. I got bad sore throat for days. Then the maid got it. She was down with fever. Then Chloe got it. She has running nose, coughing and slight fever. And now....Dominic got it. He was just complaining about fever. What a stubborn bug!

Chloe weighs 7.7 kg and her length is 70cm. She has been making very good progress on her movement. When I put her on her back in her babycot, in seconds, she will sit up, and then push herself standing up by holding the bed railing. Now comes the problem. She does not know how to sit down. She will either fallback and hit her head on the bed railing, or slid down with her leg caught between the railing. Of course, she will cry. Can get tiring for me at times. I put her down to sleep, walk out of her room to wash her bottles. Before I get to the kitchen, she has already started crying. This can repeat for many times. Now, after I put her on her bed, I will hide near her babycot and wait for a while. If I think she is going to fall asleep, I will walk out quietly. If she is going to sit up and stand up and get stuck, at least I do not have to do so much walking.

She is also learning to crawl. She has all these stunts where she is trying to position her legs correctly. Sometimes, her legs crossed and she fall on her face. When she gets it right, she will be crawling backwards. She is definitely getting handful.

Her skin is a bit yellowish. When I asked the paed, the paed said it is too much beta carotene yellow, not jaundice. It will not do any harm. Too much vitamin A and her liver cannot process fast enough. Now, I'm cutting down on her carrots and papaya.

What To Do During School Holidays?

Lucas will be having one month school holidays in 2 weeks and we are cracking our head. What can he do to keep himself busy and let us stay sane?
I catched up with a friend with 3 kids and she gave me loads of ideas! Take the double decker bus on the city Hop-In Hop Out, Go to High-5 bread showhouse, Domino's Pizza showhouse, Selangor Petwer School of Hardknock, speech and drama class, holiday camps etc.
Now....am I so hardworking to do these activities with him? Let's see....

Chloe's First Word

Chloe has spoken her first word but unfortunately I wasn't around to hear it. Dominic was around when she said the word. According to Dominic, he thinks he heard Chloe said 'ba-na-na' when she was eating banana. The maid who was feeding Chloe at that time said she heard the same word too.

Then a few days ago, Chloe was making a fuss when we put her on her baby cot. When Dominic approached her, Dominic said Chloe said 'UP' - she wanted to be picked up!

Lucas first word was 'bird'.

Playing horsy ride

Chinese New Year

CNY comes and goes by. We had our usual CNY activities such as visiting the grandparents. On the eve, we went to the in-laws' place for dinner. Then I stayed over at my parent's place from the first day to the third day. Fourth day is a working day for me and fifth day is a school day for Lucas. Since we have a so-called bigger place than previously, we even entertained friends at home now. We had a friend who came on the third day for wine and peanuts, and a group a friends on the seventh day for Klang Bah Kut Teh dinner. It must say it is nice to be able to entertained friends at home. It it nice to have a dining table that fits 8 people and enough chairs for everyone to sit. All these at the comfort at home and safe place for the kids (friends' kids included) to run around. It is sign of getting old - like to stay at home instead of going out!!!

Ligthing up fire cracker

All dressed up for CNY

CNY, Traffic and Sick Kid

This week has been a roller coaster week. With CNY this Sunday, traffic is horrendous everywhere and at all times. It easily took an hour to get the market which usually takes 20 mins. Everywhere I go and at any times, even non-rush hour have been a nightmare. Can be quite frustrating. It slowly get to my nerve to live in suburbs now. Nothing is near and nothing is running a quick errand anymore. Everything takes half a day. Now that with Chloe eating solid, I need to do grocery shopping more frequently. A lot of her food are not available in my neighbourhood stores..sigh. No Japanese pumpkin, no organic vegetables, no fresh fish, no nice fruits, no olive oil (can you imagine!). It is either my taste is 'too high class' or I have been very wasteful in buying these goods.

CNY is a few days away.We had the lantern hung up in our car porch a week ago - not too bad. This neighbourhood is quite excited about CNY. People started hanging the lanterns a month before CNY, play fireworks (those with about 20 pops) a week before the actual day. Very vibrant. We are on our second tin of pineapple tarts, finishing the first tin of love letters, and finished our first tin of fried arrow roots. Those were gifts from relatives. Now I have to scout for more cookies.

Chloe celebrated her 7th month with a bout of blocked nose. Her nose started running 2 days ago but it got worse yesterday night. She cried and can't sleep with her blocked nose. Also, she was burping a lot. Her tummy must have discomfort. So, she slept for 20 mins, cried for an hour, slept for another 20 mins and cried for another hour. It kept going until 4am! She felt better after her poo at 4am and must have been very tired. Dominic and myself were like zombies this morning.

Can't wait for the weekends....hopefully Chloe will be fully recovered by then.

Who Has the Right Spelling?

Children learn phonics in school nowadays. The pronounce an alphabet with the sound -something I never learned in school during my time and something that Lucas is better than me. Using phonics sound, Lucas insist that 1 (one) should starts with 'W', August should starts with 'O'. He did not buy the spelling we told him. So, we asked him to go ask his teacher.

Well...he is right.

Mr Loner

Wasn't sure if he is in a rebellious phase or his character, he is sure a lone ranger. Some days, I asked him if he talks to his friends in school and he said NO. He said I only talk to Ms A (his teacher) and Ms L (his another teacher). When I pressed harder and asked why, he will always have an answer. Once he said the friends were playing a 'not nice' game, and another time he said the friends were playing without him. Once, I was even telling him no point for him to go to school if he is not talking and playing with his friends.

I got a bit worried and managed to have a short chat with Ms A when I dropped him at school yesterday. Ms A said he has no problem talking to adults but just don't talk to kids (his friends). He has 'banyak cerita' (tell lots of stories) to both the teachers. Ms A always tried to get him to join his friends but she said he cannot be pushed to hard. It may backfired.

There is nothing wrong being a loner I suppose. My only concern is if this characteristic is going to work to his disadvantage when he grows up when he has to compete with people his age. We will see....

Don't You Understand

When Lucas is very persistent such as asking the same question 10 times when I have already answered him, I sometimes get frustrated and tell him something like 'You understood what Mommy just said. Why are you asking again?'

Yesterday, the smart aleck used the 'weapon' on me. He was calling out for his Daddy but Dominic was busy. So, I went to him and said:

Me: Daddy is busy, what do you want?
Lucas: I want Daddy, don't you understand!
Me: OK...

It is NOT de-worm problem

Oh..well..we came one full circle. Lucas' not so good appetite and loose poo has nothing to do with the de-worm. I went to 2 pharmacies and asked what is the side-effect of de-worm. Both have consistent reply that is nothing. So, I was left wondering what could be wrong. Then it strikes me that I have just switched Lucas' milk to a different brand. The milk he was drinking was getting too expensive and I thought maybe I can save some money if I switched him to a cheaper brand. Lucas sure does not agreed with my idea. Now, he has back to his old brand. I guess I just have to work harder to pay for his milk.

De-worm

Chloe is more comfortable on her stomach.

I tried de-worm on Lucas after several friends recommended it. There were only 2 tablets for every 6 months. So, I got him the tablets that look candies. He eat them not knowing the actual content. Then I supplemented with some vitamins supplement and appetite boaster. The end-result is even worse than before. He is not eating at all!! He eats 2-3 spoons for each meal and only had milk 3 times a day. He is also not so crazy about his sweets anymore. Now, I am getting worried. What's wrong with him?? How to get his good appetite? I'm really run out of idea. I have a 8 years old cousin who were so skinny until now. This cousin were so active and hadn't been putting on weight. He only grows taller - same story as Lucas. Now, this cousin of mine is an eating machine. He can eat 3 drumsticks for lunch and need supper (more meat). I must say he looks better not being bony. Hope Lucas will eventually build his appetite and put on some weight. Chloe's face is almost the same size as Lucas...that's how skinny he is.

One Hundred

Somehow, one hundred is Lucas' favourite number.

One day, I was wearing him his diaper before bedtime.
Me: Lucas, when will you be able to go to toilet at night and don't have to wear diaper anymore?
Lucas: When I am o-ne hundred years old!
Me: Mommy won't be around to change your diaper by then.
Lucas: Where are you going?
Me: Mommy will be gone by then.
Lucas: What about Daddy?
Me: Daddy will be gone too.
Lucas: (puzzled) Then who am I going to talk to?
Me: Maybe Chloe is going to be around.
Lucas: (satisfied with the answer).

Me: Lucas, you cannot eat too many Mentos. 2 only.
Lucas: 2 is not a lot.
Me: Then, how many is a lot?
Lucas: O-ne hundred!

If only o-ne hundred is a 4 digit number, you can guess where will I be heading!

Chloe's First Swim

We took Chloe for a swim last Tuesday. To play safe, we usually waited until the kids got the jabs until 6 months before we take them to the pool. For Lucas, we did not have a float for him, and we did not have a swimming diaper too! Did not know that swimming diaper exists then. As a result, Lucas had such a bad diarrhoea from drinking the pool water. This time, we are more experienced. We had a float and swimming diaper for Chloe. So far, Chloe is doing well ... keeping fingers crossed.

Well...Chloe did not seem to enjoy the water. Maybe it was her first time and she was overwhelmed and confused. She was busy looking around and looking uncomfortable. She just sat on her float and I pushed her around the wading pool. Before we leave, we took her out of the float and Dominic carried her and and swim on the adult pool. She was not amused either. Hope the subsequent trip will be better.

Now with 2 kids, we both had to go to the pool. Dominic cannot handle 2 kids in the pool by himself. I used to sit around and wait for Lucas to finish swimming and then take him for a bath. I do not need to get wet at all. Now.....I don't have such luxury. Quite an effort to go swimming. Had to get both kids ready with the sun block, swimming diapers for Chloe and then swim wear. Then have to pack spare change of clothes for all before we drive 5 mins to the pool. No more taking an elevator and go 3 stories down the apartment. On the bright side, we are now treating going swimming as family activity. Hopefully, something the kids look forward to.

Where am I? Big bath tub?

Lucas swimming at 8th month, June 2007. Same float, isn't it?

Lucas is happy...Chloe is not so amused.