Baby Brendan

Around Asia in 30 days!!

2010-12-12T12:29:00.003+08:00

Certainly feels that way!!

We'll be spending Christmas in Hongkong and Macau (1 week before Christmas) and then D has a training in Bangkok on Jan 2nd and then we'll be going to Korea on Jan 31st for 8 days.

Think we might just skip Bangkok, think we should save the moolah! The only reasons why i wanna go to BKK is to:

1) Pray
2) Sun!
3) Eat my fish maw
4) Swim

hmmmm... 4 reasons, good enough reasons to go?? :)

But i still think we should save the money for extra spending money in Korea!! And tickets to BKK are ridiculously expensive!! $350usd for one!! And we're not going for the entire training of 2 weeks, we're going for 5 days as somebody has to watch the cats...

And we also have a trip to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in May, May 13th to be exact, these tickets were bought in July 2010, have never in my life managed to get any cheap tickets thus i HAD to buy these!! :) We only paid $200+USD for 3 tickets from TW to KL!! :) (pat on the back)

I've never been to KL, am pretty excited to see KL for the first time, Petrona Towers and all, will goggle wat's there to do in KL.

And we'll be spending the Summer in DC, D has training before he leaves for Syria, ideally, we'd want to be there for 2 months, but what about the cats??

Sigh~~

Leaving Taiwan...

2010-09-29T12:15:00.003+08:00

There has been talks about leaving Taiwan but how do you leave a decade of your life behind? With all the great friends and contacts you've built up over 9 years? Saying goodbye is never easy, especially for me... it's really hard for me to say goodbye to friends and Taiwan is no exception, after living here for close to 10 years, it has become more than a friend, it is my dear close friend.

Brendan is 4 now, he turns 5 next year. He should be in nursery/kindergarten but he is not as i don't really trust the schools here in Taiwan and the International schools are just too far away and i don't wanna move. For the sake of his education, i believe i have to leave Taiwan. Kindergartens aside, what about when he starts elementary school?? I can't read a word in Chinese (ok, SOME words--pork, beef, fish, chicken, noodles...) but definitely not enough to help him with his homework. Every subject is in Chinese, Math, Science, Social Studies... Dear Lord, we could be up for weeks and months and yet no homework will be done. I'll probably have to hire a tutor to come in everyday just to help him with his homework!!

The sad part is Brendan loves and misses his dad a lot but sadly, his dad doesn't feel the same about his own son. B is getting older, as a mother, i wanna prevent further hurt to my son. Why stay in a place where i have no kin at all??

Leaving Taiwan with 6 cats is NOT easy!! 1) Costly!! Very... :( It'll probably cost us at least $10,000sgd for all the cats to leave Taiwan. I've to start saving for it... 2) The next move has to be permanent? Somewhat as it's really costly to locate the cats and it won't be fair for them to be in quarantine all the time!!

How do you leave an entire decade of you life behind? What do you bring with you? It was easy to pack and relocate as a single but now with all these baggages, how do you do it?

Well... nothing is confirmed yet. Just a thought......... it could happen next year or the year after.

Meet & Mingle

2010-09-29T12:10:00.002+08:00

So, what exactly is Meet & Mingle?? Is it just the name for another playgroup? Or a networking group? Is it just for mothers? Is it just for ladies?

Meet & Mingle is actually a networking and socializing group for anyone! Mostly mothers with kids, mothers meet and chat while the kids play and mingle with each other. But fathers are more than welcome to come too!! Single ladies? If you love kids and love great company, food and wanna have a good time, you're welcome to join us too!

Meet & Mingle meet biweekly on a Tuesday at various locations.

Email me if you're interested in hosting the next Meet & Mingle. :)

Michele: michele_tang@hotmail.com

Shapes n Alphabets

2010-06-21T00:15:00.010+08:00

Instead of allowing B to watch tv/dvds all the time and apart from playing with his toys and reading his books, i thought of some creative stuff for him to do indoors...

Shapes & Alphabets!!

I drew different shapes on a piece of art paper from my various skin care bottles... :) And also cut put the shapes of them on colored paper. (we used floral papers)

Then I wrote Alphabets on the cut out papers and also on the art paper, B had to match the alphabets on the floral paper to the right alphabet and shape on the art paper.

As you can see, it didn't involved much effort on his part, think i spent thrice the time preparing for it!! The alphabets weren't very challenging for him, it seem a lil too easy. I'll come up with something else next time, maybe the name of his trains??

Political Farewell Party

2010-06-14T14:55:00.010+08:00

Summer is a not a fun time when you work for the state department, many farewells and many colleagues on long summer vacations... Come next year, it'll be D's turn to leave too, dunno where the next post will be, we'll know this August. All i know is that if it's China, we ain't going. Anyhow, I wanna spend another 2 years in Taiwan, this will be our last 2 years in Taiwan as Brendan will be starting school (elementary) soon and if we don't leave Taiwan, i dunno who is gonna help him with the homework as everything here is in Chinese!! (Math, Science...etc)

3 of D's colleagues from the Political Section were leaving in August, Angelo and Darlene were posted back to Washington and Dave was going to Afghanistan. Dave is Denis' boss, he is well-liked and respected by everyone in AIT. (American Institute in Taiwan)

We decided to throw a farewell party for them. It was to be a closed door
party as the Director(Ambassador) and the Deputy Director were coming to the party.
So... am supposed to organize this party, plan the food and drink menu and the theme. Have come up with a Red, White and Blue Theme to show our respect for all the hardworking Foreign Service Officers and it's was also like a Pre-4th of July Party.

I was up till 2am preparing the kebabs and all, D was in Lala land as he had Dragonboat Race the next morning at 7am.

The Director, Bill Stanton giving a speech

But am glad to say that the party went well, all my efforts were paid off...the guests enjoyed the food, drinks and the company!! :) We did pretty good considering the fact that we were grilling in the small balcony.

Finally found a way to entertain the kids, played Kungfu Panda and put them in front of the computer.

Goodbye Dave, Angelo and Darlene, hope to see you soon!!

Brendan's 4!!

2010-06-13T23:26:00.001+08:00

I didn't wanna have a party this year as Brendan has so many toys!! I even had to think of a new 'brand' of toys that he doesn't have to buy for him and thus i chose Playmobil, i remember growing up with them... (but i dun remember the small parts that they come with!!)

Then i decided to have a small party with some of the closest friends we have a Taipei and with kids close to B's age group.

Party supplies and party favors were all ordered from the US, the boys favors were so late that i got kinda worried on the last week...

It was a Spongebob Theme party with fried food and snacks and of cos, a Spongebob Cake that Brendan chose, 'goofy Spongebob with glasses'.

Thank you all for coming!! :)

Happy Birthday Brendan!!

Muffin Tin

2010-05-21T00:57:00.004+08:00

Ok, am not much of a baker but a terrific cook!! ;)

Guess what i stumbled across today and i was SHOCKED!! Kids meals on muffin trays!! :) Think my fussy, picky and slow eater will eat more and faster now??

Am off to a bake shop tomorrow to look for muffin trays!! Will update this post with our creations... (hopefully soon)

http://www.michellesjournalcorner.blogspot.com/

Mother's day 2010

2010-05-10T00:43:00.013+08:00

It's been many many many years since Mama last spent Mother's Day with Grandma as they've always lived apart for many many years. So this year was an exception, Grandma was still around during Mother's Day and this year we had a 2 day celebration!!

We went to South Africa Day at Huashan Cultural center on Saturday, the adults were bored to tears but i had fun running in and out those bouncy castles and running around with the other children!!

After that, Mama & Denis dropped Grandma and I at home and they went to a Cinco De Mayo party.

On Sunday, Mother's Day, Grandma, Mama and i headed to Din Tai Fung for lunch, daddy even popped by to drop off 2 any pows for Grandma and Mama. After lunch, we did a little shopping as Mama is looking for a red and white stripes top. And i got to run around a little at the playground behind Sogo and even ate ice cream at McDonalds.

Then Mommy complained that she was tired and we headed home for a nap before dinner. I was buying the ladies dinner...

Denis came over with flowers for the ladies and we headed out to Maji for Mama's favorite, Japanese BBQ!!

We had a delicious dinner and headed to Raohe nightmarket after dinner. I even got to fly my own private jet!! ;)

Happy Mother's Day to Grandma & Mama!!

Hello Kitty Sweets

2010-04-28T22:58:00.011+08:00

Happy Birthday Rita!!

When Kate suggested Hello Kitty Cafe, my eyes gleamed... am a HUGE fan of that cat!! And am waiting for someone to take me to Hello Kitty Land!! (hint! hint! i'll make sure u read this post...) :)

So we enthusiastically met Kate and Grandma Jen and the Gerten kids to take them for a shopping trip at the fabric market before heading to HK cafe.

Hello Kitty was everything i dream of and more... everything was either shaped or had hello kitty on it, the coasters, placemats, furniture...etc

For all the Hello Kitty fans, you MUST stop by this place when you come to Taipei!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RITA

Boys take on Gaga

2010-04-23T11:36:00.002+08:00

First it was Spongebob, that didnt do much but when it was Gaga!! Watch them dance!!

Maokong Gondola

2010-04-21T23:57:00.011+08:00

If you have lived in Taipei, Taiwan for more than 8 years, you'd know that the weather here is almost as erratic as a woman!! I used to believe the reverse of yahoo.com weather on Taipei...

So, it was another sun/no sun day in Taipei, i dun have to work on wednesdays so i try to take lil B somewhere every wed. And my mama was still in Taipei and she has asked bout the Maokong Gondolas so off to the Gondolas we went... Coincidentally, the Gertens were also planning a trip there!!

The ride cost $50NTD and you can pay for the ride with your 'yo yo card', yep! The transportation system in Taiwan is convenient and cheap!! (thumbs up) It's bout a 20 mins ride to the Maokong stop.

The Gertens arrived and we headed off to a teahouse, we decided on a different teahouse this time, one without anyone to complain about the noise from the kids!! ;) The adventurous lil boys decided to stop at a 'tea plantation' and climb up the lil hill to pick and smell some tea leaves!!

A small bag of tea cost $300-$350NTD and it cost an additional $100ntd per person to have tea at the teahouse.

The sights at the teahouse were spectacular!! we could see the gondola, the temple, the very different fruit and vegetables planted in Maokong, definitely a great way to spend a 'beautiful' wednesday afternoon!!

Baking Cupcakes & Making Chili

2010-04-01T00:57:00.008+08:00

After many unsuccessful attempts to the supermarket to get all the ingredients, we've finally managed to gather 'everything'!! So, cupcakes and chili, we're making!! :)

Wow! where and how do we start?? The kitchen is a mess...

Mixer... hmmmmmmm... none available!! we'll use Mama's hands... thus it didnt turn out all that smooth!!

Didn't realized we can only fill half the cup of the cupcakes thus the overspill... :)

Those tiny ones with chocolate sprinkles look really pretty but they were as hard as stones!! :(

The chili didnt turn out quite expected, neither did my beef fajitas, what a disappointing cooking day!! Fortunately, D is someone who appreciates all my cooking and eats everything!! :) And Brendan had a great time baking, stirring and putting the sprinkles on the cupcakes!!

Next-- Chocolate Cupcakes

SO... a lil backdated on the blog...

2010-03-22T02:21:00.003+08:00

Yes, a little backdated on the blog with all the titles waiting for me to update... SIGH~~

I will! I will!

Update the entire blog/ revamp...

SOON!! :)

Lunch @ Loewen

2010-02-09T23:13:00.004+08:00

Loewen Gardens, pretty name... a place not accessible without a car, quiet, enclosed area where kids are free to run around, drive around and scoot around safely while parents are able to enjoy their lunch/drinks under the sun.

Doesn't this place absolutely sound like the BEST place on earth??

Setback: Rude waiters, small food portions for the price you pay

Met up with 3 other Mommies from the Singapore Motherhood Forum June Babies Thread, Karen, Melissa and Michelle. Most of the June Mommies have 'disappeared' from the thread, many are now busy with their second or third child now... It was nice being able to catch up with some of them now...

After our 'tiny lunches', all of us were still hungry thus we went to Goodwood Hotel for Hi-Tea.

The kids had a fabulous time playing and eating with each other and the Mommies had a great time catching up!!

We should do this more often!! :) (maybe over CNY @ Mel's??)

Baby Boss

2010-01-04T10:24:00.004+08:00

Much awaited and anticipated visit to BabyBoss by both mother and child!! What's BabyBoss?? Here is more info:

BabyBoss City is Taiwan’s first simulation city made for children. The city is designed to create an environment for children to play and learn at the same time. Inside the 2300sq. ping city there are 50 professions and over 70 different occupations waiting for kids to explore. The settings allow games and role-playing scenarios to stimulate children’ learning capability. Once entered into BabyBoss, the children set their minds on only two things “learn from playing” and “learn from doing”. This environment opens up their abilities from within and sparks unlimited potentialities. The concept of money and how to value it are thoroughly taught within the city. The hands-on learning process is not only fun but also very rewarding.
- Let the children of tomorrow find their future today.

http://www.babyboss.tw/english/

WOW!! How exciting!! More than 50 professions for the kids to have a hands on experience!! From pizza making, milking the cows, working at the docks, flying the airplane, an astronaut, a firefighter, police officer, security guard and so many more... And what's more, they get paid!! (with toy money of cos)

3 Unique points of BabyBoss:
The SECOM Security Group holds all rights of the BabyBoss City. It has developed a fully functional safety system which not only monitors the safety of every child, but also the learning process.

1. Security Bracelet – a special child-safety bracelet has been designed to ensure the safety of all children that enter BabyBoss. Allowing the child and adult to enter and exit safely together, gives both of them the opportunity to explore and enjoy their time at BabyBoss.

2. Simulation Banking – children have the chance to experience working and earning a salary, just like the real world. With this salary, they have the choice on how to use it. They can spend it on something they want, choose to deposit into a bank, or save up for future use. Children are encouraged to learn the value of money and how to spend it wisely.

3. Occupation Track Record – the ‘occupation track record’ is a listing of all the occupations the child has completed like a portfolio. Every child is issued a citizen ID card. With this ID card, it allows the child to enter and exit any work station within BabyBoss City. It may also be used to access the child’s personal track record and its history records on-line. Parents can utilize this information to better understand their children on which jobs have been done and where specific interests may lie.

Brendan's favorite occupation would be anything to do with transportation; cars, planes, trucks, cranes...etc.

Brendan started as a car mechanic, then he spent his entire salary on a car ride!! Then he wanted to fly an airplane and he got dressed for the pilot job. Occupations covered that day: Car Mechanic, Pilot, Astronaut, Cow Milker, TV Actor, Gas Station, Firefighter and a Crane Driver.

We need more than a day at Babyboss as most of the occupations takes about 30mins to a hour. There's lots of waiting time for the parents, pretty boring for us while the kids are having fun!! I'd suggest that you go with friends or bring an interesting book or magazine to read.

And please also pack your own lunch, the food serve there is not ideal and the food in the Mall, other than the upscale Lawry's or McDonalds, everything else is not very tasty. There is plenty of seating if you wanna sit down and have lunch at Babyboss.

Hopefully Brendan will try out some other occupations the next time we are there.

Christmas--a week away...

2009-12-18T02:36:00.005+08:00

Arrrrrrggghhh!!

I've hit the panic button!! Christmas is a week away and we have yet to prepare anything for the little Christmas party that we're hosting @ Denis'!!

Here i am still looking at recipes, wanting to try to bake something different... YES!! Have taken an interest in baking lately and Mr. D's oven has finally been used!! :)

Gifts have yet to arrive... shipment has been delayed. There are no gifts under the Xmas tree yet, guess we'll have to wrap Bren's Spongebob motion tv game and put it under the tree first.

what are we preparing for the party??

1) Gourmet Ham Platter
2) Cheese Platter
3) Hors d'oeuvre: shrimp cocktail and mushroom toast
4) Strawberry Daiquiri (Virgin)
5) Strawberries & Cream
6) Salsa
7) Guacamole
8) Wine
9) Beer

And when do we have time to go grocery shopping?? Sigh~~ We're pretty much booked right up till next year...

Dec 19th: T's Birthday Cruise/ Luxy Xmas Party
Dec 20th: Parentpages Xmas Party

guess we'll have to squeeze in one of the weekday evening to do it...

Christkindlmarkt at Grand Hyatt Taipei

2009-12-05T19:57:00.003+08:00

Grand Hyatt's first Christmas market.

Whoever has been in Germany knows a visit to a christmas market is a must to feel the unique seasonal ambience.

The market will not just offer you lots of delicious food and sweets from the German Executive chef, but also offer a variety of little stands where you can buy beautiful christmas decoration from Germany like nutcrackers & smokers, toys and unique handicraft items as gifts for your families.

A series of children activities, including story-telling, santa claus, kids entertainer, board games and doing handcraft with the kids will also will be highlights of the Christmas Market.

Date: December 4 & 5
Time: 2.00pm to 9.00pm (opening at 12:00 noon on Saturday)
Venue: Grand Hyatt Taipei, Grand Residence II&III

That event i had waited for was an utter disappointment!! It didnt look anything like the pictures... the food was nothing German, the drinks were, well, we only drank juice, there wasn't any beers or wine.

The only thing that caught our eyes were the stalls selling Christmas decors, bags and jewelry but they were way overpriced!! A zodiac 'light ball' for $1,280ntd!! seriously?? Was gonna get a pair of pearl earrings but was dragged away by a really bored 3 year old.

We had to toys r us to buy a gift for Shan Shan's Birthday tomorrow and Brendan got a gift for Christmas too!! :)

World Animal Day 2009

2009-10-04T08:36:00.003+08:00

HAPPY WORLD ANIMAL DAY!!

http://www.worldanimalday.org.uk/2009_e ... egion=Asia

REPUBLIC OF CHINA - Taiwan Animals Taiwan

We are very happy to announce to you that Animals Taiwan decided a few months ago to organize and sponsor World Animal Day for the very first time in Taiwan. We have worked diligently with the government and a local public relations firm to get approval of our venue and events, which will include: a Dogathon, an Agility Course, Dog Show, Entertainment Program (with local celebrities, musicians, etc.), a pre-event painting competition for elementary school children. All painting entries will be displayed at the event and prizes will be awarded. There will also be stalls for other animal organizations in Taiwan, food, drinks, vendors, etc. Venue: We are delighted that the government has approved the use of the park and square directly in front of City

This year, Animals Taiwan, along with other organizations, groups, animal shelters, places of worship, schools, clubs and individuals throughout the world, will be holding a World Animal Day event. The event will be held on Sunday, October 4th, 1:00 p.m. ~ 7:00 p.m., at the Taipei City Hall Plaza, which is located in front of Taipei City Hall on Shi Fu Road. The theme of this year’s event is Adoption Saves! Abandonment Kills! This event will feature a 1 kilometer dog walk-a-thon, an opening ceremony with several distinguished guests, entertainment, a carnival featuring 60 merchandise, food and drink booths, a coloring contest for kids and an evening charity show with performances and appearances by celebrities such as Ivy Hsu, Evonne Hsu, Fan Yi-Chen and many more.

World Animal Day was started in 1931 at a convention of ecologists in Florence as a way of highlighting the plight of endangered species. Since then it has grown to encompass all kinds of animal life and is widely celebrated in countries throughout the world. October 4 was chosen as World Animal Day as it is the Feast Day of St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. It is intended as a day of celebration for anyone in the world who cares about animals.

The mission of World Animal Day is to 1) to celebrate animal life in all its forms, 2) to celebrate humankind’s relationship with the animal kingdom and 3) to acknowledge the diverse roles that animals play in our lives – from being our companions, supporting and helping us, to bringing a sense of wonder into our lives.

So join us on this special day to commemorate our love and respect for animals and to highlight the importance of animals in our world. For more information on Animals Taiwan World Animal Day 2009 event, visit www.u-channel.com/event or www.animalstaiwan.org, or call the Animals Taiwan rescue center at (02)2833-8820.

Please help us spread the word about the World Animal Day event to your friends, family and colleagues. We look forward to celebrating the special day with you!

Chinese Valentine- Qixi Festival

2009-08-26T14:54:00.003+08:00

Qixi Festival 七夕節, "The Night of Sevens" is also known as Magpie Festival, falls on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month on the Chinese calendar; thus its name. It is sometimes called Chinese Valentine's Day in recent years.

The story of the Cowherd and Weaver Girl

See also: The Princess and the Cowherd

In late summer, the stars Altair and Vega are high in the night sky, and the Chinese tell the following love story, of which there are many variations:

A young cowherd named Niulang (Chinese: 牛郎; pinyin: niú láng; literally "[the] cowherd"), came across seven fairy sisters bathing in a lake. Encouraged by his mischievous companion the ox, he stole their clothes and waited to see what would happen. The fairy sisters elected the youngest and most beautiful sister Zhinü (simplified Chinese: 织女; traditional Chinese: 織女; pinyin: zhī nǚ; literally "[the] weaver girl", who represents the star Vega) to retrieve their clothing. She agreed to do so, but since Niulang had seen her naked, she agreed to his request for marriage. She proved to be a wonderful wife, and Niulang to be a good husband. They lived happily and had two children. But the Goddess of Heaven (in some versions Zhinü's mother) found out that Zhinü, a fairy girl, had married a mere mortal human. She was furious and ordered Zhinü to return to Heaven. (In another version, the Goddess forced the fairy back to her former duty of weaving colorful clouds in the sky because she could not do her job while married to Niulang, a mortal.) Down on Earth, Niulang was very upset that his wife had gone. Suddenly, his ox began to talk, telling him that if he killed it and put on its hide, he would be able to go up to Heaven to find his wife. Crying bitterly, he killed the ox, put on the skin. Carrying his two children with him, he went off to Heaven to find Zhinü. The Goddess found out that he had come and was very angry. Taking out her hairpin, the Goddess scratched a wide river in the sky to separate the two lovers forever (thus forming the Milky Way, which separates Altair and Vega).

Zhinü must sit forever on one side of the river, sadly weaving on her loom, while Niulang watches her from afar and takes care of their two children (his flanking stars β and γ Aquilae or by their Chinese names Hè Gu 1 and Hè Gu 3).

But once a year all the magpies in the world would take pity on them and fly up into heaven to form a bridge (鵲橋, "the bridge of magpies", Que Qiao) over the star Deneb in the Cygnus constellation so the lovers may be together for a single night, which is the seventh night of the seventh moon.

It is said that if it rains on the night of Qi Xi, it is the tears of Niulang and Zhinü crying at the misery of their life because the magpies will not come on a night that rains.

As an interesting note, Barry Hughart's fantasy novel Bridge of Birds is loosely based upon this celestial story, though the two figures are switched here. The girl is forced to remain on earth, and her male paramour in heaven. She is a peasant girl, and he shepherds the stars.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qi_Xi

In Loving Memory - Vanilla

2009-08-11T04:23:00.003+08:00

after all these mths, today, i finally find the courage to pen something down... will i complete this post? i dunno... (Jan 25th 2010)

About 5 yrs ago Snowy and Chocolate had a litter of 5 beautiful kittens but sadly, we lost them all to cat leukemia... all 5 of them slowly. All we could do was watch them die, there was nothing we could do, there was no cure. I was devastated when all 5 finally left me, fortunately the mother and father are fine, it is still a mystery how they got leukemia...

The Vet who attended to the 5 kittens had 2 white stray kittens up for adoption, when i saw them, the bigger one, later named Vanilla called out to me and immediately i knew i had to take them home. Vanilla and his sister, Berry.

i cant continue...

Swim & Art Play Date

2009-08-06T22:16:00.015+08:00

We haven't had a play date for the longest time!! The busy work schedule and me going down to Kaohsiung...etc.

We've finally managed to set a date for a swim & art play date!! :) Boy, were the kids excited!! Bren LOVES swimming & art!! So off to Sue's house it was...

The kids were very excited about swimming and went wild in the pool! The water was just marvelous for my hidden 'mermaid tail', i love being in the water and have always dreamt of being a mermaid.

We stayed in the pool for about 40mins?? (seemed long...) and then it was time to get changed and get ready for lunch, Larry's Pizza!! :) We ordered a whole pizza and some extra slices and pasta with meatballs for lunch, there was alot of food for all of us.

Then it was time for ART: Father's Day Craft (in Taiwan they celebrate Father's Day on August 8th, 88 sounds like baba/dad in Chinese).

The kids made a photo frame with colored fur balls glued on the white frames for their Dads.

Then it was time to work on the Chinese clocks, the kids gave up and left it for their Mamas to complete the Chinese clocks, only 1 Mama successfully finished the cock!!

After art, there was more fun and 'craft' with playdough!!

Then it was time for us to make our way home, Conrad came over for more play with Bren. It's was indeed another fun playdate!! Thanks Sue!

Rekindle Kindermusik

2009-08-05T01:41:00.009+08:00

I must say it's been awhile... more than 2 yrs!!

Reasons being:

1) moved too far away
2) waiting for an afternoon slot
3) (and the real reason really) finally decided to move my lazy ass and decide to spend some real quality time with Mr. B!! So every Tuesday is my date day with Mr. B... :)

Bren was shy for the first 20 mins of the class, then he began to warm up when he found the songs familiar and the studio being right in front of the Muzha mrt line helped a lot!! ;) And of cos, dear Jennifer's patience with B.

Brendan's 3rd Birthday Party

2009-06-14T23:58:00.034+08:00

I didn't have a Birthday Party last year because my Mama said I had tooooo many toys already and we just didn't have space for more thus we went on a road trip instead. So she made it up to me by throwing me a Thomas the Train theme party this year!!

The Guestlist:

1) Conrad & Rita
2) Aidan & Ian
3) Brandon & Kaylee
4) Vincent & Laura
5) Lila & Ilai
6) Jed & An
7) Shanshan & Zhenzhen
8) Celine
9) Aunt Keri & Ge Ge Isaac & Jacob
10) Aunt Tania & Victoria
11) Brian & Angela

About 41 of us filled the basement of Hook Restaurant & Bar on June 14th for my 3rd Birthday Party!! We had a all-you-can eat buffet food spread.

The Food:

1) Hotdogs
2) Onion Rings
3) Chicken Wings
4) 2 kinds of Pasta
5) Fries
6) Salsa with many dips
7) Caesar Salad
8) Mango Salad
9) and more...

To my delight, everything was decorated in Thomas the Train Theme!! :) The wall banners/flags, the food toppers, the giftbags, I even had a 3D Thomas the Train cake and Mama even made a Thomas pinata from a post office box!!

The Activities:

1) Facepainting
2) Thomas Aquadoodle
3) Pinata
4) Decor-A-Cookie
5) Cake cutting

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Thank you Aunt Victoria and Aunt Tania for doing the facepainting!!

Thank you all for coming and celebrating my 3rd Birthday with me!! :)

Thank you so much Aunties and Uncles for all the lovely gifts!! :)

Elvis

2009-06-07T01:24:00.002+08:00

Elvis is one of the 2 dogs that I've been sponsoring for close to a year now. We used to visit the shelter more often but I stopped because I always felt really sad leaving all the 60+ dogs behind... Elvis is one of the better natured dog @ the shelter, i've yet to hear him bark till today.

He was always happy to see us at the shelter till this Mother's Day. After an absence of about 3 months, Elvis seems to have lost his ethusiasm for life and doesnt look as happy as he did before and seem to have lost soooo much weight in just 3 months.

It daunted me for the longest time! I didnt know how to help him as i do have 7 cats and a kid and can cats and dogs really get along?? After seeing him again at TAS flea market, i asked Brendan if he wanted to take Elvis home as Bren is petrified of dogs!! loves cats but afraid of dogs!!

Bren agreed to take Elvis home and i filled up a fostering form and we were gonna be Elvis' foster home!! with the long holiday, my busy work schedule, bad weather... i think it was just my fear of the 'consequences' between my cats & Elvis when i take him home. It was either NOW or never!! Brendan and the nanny kept asking bout Elvis, when was he gonna come home...

So, June 5th 2009, Lilian, who is also a volunteer @ Animals Taiwan kindly drove Elvis to my house. Elvis is known for being sick in the car...etc He actually did throw up like thrice in the car as Lilian couldnt find my apt.

With all the lil hiccups, Elvis is finally home... YES!! A place where he can call his home. It gives me sooooo much joy to see him sooooo happy!! (words just cannot express my joy or rather our joy to have Elvis here)

WELCOME HOME ELVIS!!

21st Summer Deaflympics Taipei 2009

2009-05-17T09:15:00.012+08:00

"The design of the emblem for the 21st Summer Deaflympics Taipei 2009 incorporates the following three elements: the Chinese character for north "bei" representing the host city Taipei, an ear representing the Deaflympics, and a figure representing the athletes. These three elements come together to form simple, flowing calligraphic lines that create a sense of dashing forward, while cleverly evoking the image of a running man. This lively emblem symbolizes Taiwan’s undying vitality as well as the courageous spirit of deaf athletes as they meet the challenges of competition."
www.2009deaflympics.org

Amazing what you can see on the streets of Taipei!! (God I love this city!!) Giant frogs, floating big sneaker, men on stilts, walking packet drinks, star wars, enormous floating caterpillar and giant giant balls...

WAIT A MINUTE..

Isn't the frog is the mascot for the 21st Summer Deaflympics Taipei 2009?? So.. this is probably the opening ceremony parade for the event here in Taipei. They were all marching into the empty plot of land right across SYS Memorial Hall for a concert that night.

2 major world events to be held in Taiwan this year! Am glad to see that Taiwan is finally getting 'global recognition'. The World Games 2009 in Kaohsiung and the 21st Summer Deaflympics Taipei 2009. Am proud and very honored to be a part of the World Games 2009 in Kaohsiung!! :) Stay tuned to my blog for more updates and details. But for now, will keep all of you in suspense...

Happy Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-10T23:30:00.008+08:00

What fun is Mother's Day if you have to work the entire day? I feel so bad for not spending enough time lately with Brendan cos of my busy busy work schedule... (despite missing 3 privates this week already)

So I did what any other Mothers would do, sacrifice my 'beauty sleep' and went down to spend the morn/noon with all my children!! (those 7 at home see enough of me, ve to spread my love!!) Havent been down to Animals Taiwan for the longest time and have yet to see my other dog, Norton despite already sponsoring him for months...And we miss Elvis!!

Bren is still petrified of dogs except for Elvis, will be fostering Elvis next week. Elvis has lost soooo much weight and has lost the twinkle and the ethusiasm he used to have... guess he has given up the idea of ever being adopted?? :( Not to worry!! Mama is here!! You've a family Elvis!! :)

Hope my 7 cats will behave!! And i really hope they'll get along!! Will need to buy a nice comfy bed for Elvis and try to fatten him up a little!! Any suggestions what to do to his feet after walking him? use wipes? or wash his feet after each walk in the park?

Bren wanted to take those 2 little kitties home!! (wish i could!) We even learned how to bottle feed Hua Hua..

We had a wondeful time on a beautiful sunny sunday- priceless!! Just wish i didnt have to jet off to work.. Am kinda glad larry and his family popped by and spend some time with Brendan.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!
i do miss my mama...

Happy 4th Birthday Jedd

2009-05-04T00:19:00.016+08:00

Jedd's 4th Birthday!

After only being here for just 5 mths, this lil 4 yr old speaks 'fluent' Chinese... welll.... good enough to greet us a the door to ask us if we brought a gift!

"ni men you dai li wu gei wo"
Did you bring me a gift?

(will teach Bren to say this for his B-day!! :) )

It was a fun party with 6 families and a delicious spread of food! yuuuummmm... Oli, pls cook for Bren's party! Xie! Xie!

Jedd had a cute Anpanman cake, chocolate and jam filling- yummy!! Then it was time to open the gifts!!

We had an art session with paint n stamps, stamp art in the kids room. I think the kids were more enthusiastic about getting themselves 'dirty' and playing with markers! ;)

Rita's 1st Birthday

2009-04-25T00:21:00.007+08:00

Happy Birthay Covergirl!!

I Can Cycle!

2009-04-25T00:04:00.005+08:00

Oh yes you can! And watch you gooooo...

So now Mama will have to take me to the park to cycle toooo :) Yay!

Future Pianist?

2009-04-20T23:03:00.004+08:00

Nope, aint that ambitious but i wanna expose my lil to everything he wants to try and let him explore all the possibilities...

He could be Jack of all trades but master of none but at least he has/had fun while learning those 'trades'...

So we're signing up for classes! Once a week @ Eslite, doesnt matter if he cant read notes or know the keys, the point is he'll have fun! :)

He actually requested to sit and play on the piano...

Reunion Dinner 2009

2009-01-26T01:35:00.002+08:00

I mastered all my courage to join the Ngiams for the Reunion Dinner this year. It'll be so different without Regina around... Every reunion dinner (when I was in Singapore) was spent with the Ngiams and with Gina and I buying and preparing the food. Guess this was why they opt to eat out this year!

I was fighting back my tears when I hugged her daughter Jayne but the tears just kept streaming down my face... Brendan stopped me from crying as i had vowed never to cry in front of my son again.

We had dinner at Imperial Court Shark's Fin Restaurant, yes I know, i had also said that i will 'boycott' eating shark's fin... :) am glad my bowl had more sea cucumber (which i really dislike!!) than fins, couldn't even tasted a fin!

We had an early dinner, dinner was at 5pm, after dinner we decided to proceed to Changi Airport Terminal 3 for coffee and tea. Bren fell asleep in the car on the way there, he was exhausted!

We had coffee and tea @ Ya Kun, shopped around till it was about 10pm before heading home to invite the God of Fortune into our house.

How do you invite the God of Fortune into your house?

-Open all the windows and doors in your house
-Turn on every single light in the house
-Prepare a spread of goodies for the God of Fortune to feast on
-Prepare a bowl of rice with chopsticks
-Prepare a drink (tea, juice...)

Gong Xi Fa Cai!! May the year of the Ox be a good year for all!! May this year usher in health, prosperity and happiness for all!!

Fireworks @ 101 (Taipei City)

2009-01-01T17:07:00.003+08:00

Enjoy the Fireworks!! I dunno how to turn the video the right way up...can anyone help?)

The fireworks this year at Taipei 101 was a huge disappointment!

We had dinner with Sue at her apartment, she lives a stone throw away from 101, 20 mins before midnight, we strolled down to the intersection of Hsinyi and Songren for the countdown!!

Brendan enjoyed the fireworks and breakdancing on the 'empty' roads of Hsinyi!! :)

HAPPY 2009!!

Goodbye 2008

2008-12-31T11:57:00.005+08:00

Trials & Tribulations & Triumphs of 2008

The year of the Rat has been a trying year for many, nevertheless, I wasn't spared either... It has been a tough year for me. I got my divorce, struggled with being the single parent in all aspects, lost my dear sister, cope with being alone, truly alone after 5 years of marriage.

Tania came back to Taiwan, as she had promised she would after 6 years, made some wonderful friends; Tine, Kate, Carol, Karri, Arwed, Liza, Kim, Ying...

Learnt to be completely independent, financially, emotionally... Tangs are survivals!! ;) Done things i've never thought I could do on my own!! *pat on my back*

Organize & plan fundraiser events for Animals Taiwan

2009- Year of the Ox
Will continue on to my pursuit of happiness, be a good mother, raise heaps of money for Animals Taiwan and continue to party on like a rock star!! :)

In Loving Memory: Regina Ngiam Mahasveran

2008-12-21T03:39:00.004+08:00

Barbie's hair would always grow back after you cut it, I was always anticipating for it to grow back when I was just a kid. Hah! If only we could turn back the hands of time...

We've shared tears, joy, laughter, closer than blood sisters can ever be, why did you have to leave? Who do I have left to turn to?? You have no idea how much I'm hurting, but, but... I can't be selfish. I know the pain that you've been enduring, 2 years you've battled with breast cancer, but why did it have to hapen to you? You said you would always be there for Brendan and I...

4 days to Christmas, I was waiting for your Christmas sms this year. Please let this be a bad dream? Am a complete wreck!! Wish I had the luxury of locking myself up to cry for 3 days 3 nights... but unfortunately, I always have to put on a brave front.

Goodbye Gina, I love you dearly... dearly!!

I wish i could grief over your death
I wish i didn't have to put a brave front for everyone
I wish i had been there for you
I wish you had told me about the pain and the sufferings
I wish i could have said goodbye to you
I wish you had been braver and continue fighting
I wish i could see you again when i am back in Singapore
I wish i had called to wish you Happy Birthday!
I wish i had been brave enough to hear the pain in your voice
I wish i had told you how much i love you and how much you had meant to me
I wish i had the courage to go back to Sinagpore and spend CNY without you
I wish we were little girls again, anticipating that Barbie's hair would grow back
I wish this had all been a bad dream, a terrible nightmare
I wish i could have shared your pain
I wish you had discovered it earlier
I wish i didn't have to read Jayne's msg calling out for mummy in her dreams
I wish I can take away Jayne's pain and her lost
I wish you could have been there to watch your daughter grow up into a fine young lady like you

I really wish i could see you again... you promised that you were getting better... you said you were gonna be there for Brendan and i...

This i promise you... i will watch Jayne grow up into a fine young lady, i will help to raise her like how you would have, i will love her like how you have love us...

I wish you're not suffering anymore
I wish you're happy now
I wish you will shine on us and guide us

I wish... and am wishing hard everyday...

Venetian Masquerade Ball @ Carnegies

2008-12-01T01:06:00.003+08:00

It was another fundraiser for Animals Taiwan. www.animalstaiwan.org

I was supposed to be there at 7.30pm to help sell raffle tickets but as usual, was fashionably late again! :) Arrived at 9.20pm, it was freeeeezing that night!! I had volunteered to sell raffle tickets that night, $100ntd for 1 and 3 for $200ntd. (i don't make a very good salesman as i'm NOT a very patient person) BUT we had managed to raise $20,500ntd on raffle tickets alone that night!!

FANTASTIC!! :)

Carnegies, carnegies, a blast from the past! (7 yrs ago) And 7 years later, at 3am in the morning, they still play music from 7 yrs ago, how could we leave?? We all got really drunk that night and we had such a fantastic time from dancing on the bar, selling raffle tickets, gossiping, dancing, meeting new people and all in the good cause for Animals Taiwan!!

We finally walked out of that place at 4.30am...

Florian's 3rd Birthday

2008-11-24T19:04:00.002+08:00

Another birthday party!! Isn't this what year end is about? Parties, parties and more parties!! Florian's 3rd birthday at the American Club.

Auntie Tine had stayed over the night before so that we could all go together... and as always we were fashionably late (a little), when we arrived Auntie Rocio was doing some face painting, I didn't want any of the paint on my face!! At least not done by the Aunties, I wanted to do it myself!! :)

There was a Thomas pinata at the door!! THOMAS!!! Everyone was crazy (all the boys..) about the Thomas pinata and we each took a picture with the Thomas pinata. There alot of goodies and food on the table, my personal favorites were the chicken nuggets and the M & Ms.

Then it was time for a little sing along with Brian Funshine! We all did a little boogie, jumping around and singing and them it was time for PINATA!! We all went into the open air playground for that, each kid had their turn of hitting the pinata but it was so hard that finally Auntie Rocio 'loosen' the pinata and got the strongest boy in the group to hit it and all the goodies fell out and everyone was happy!! :)

Then it was back to the Miami room with a little more singing and dancing before cake time and then it was time to say bye-bye...

Thank you Florian for a wonderful party and the party bag!!

Victor's 3rd Birthday

2008-11-16T17:31:00.014+08:00

Auntie Tine decided to have a birthday party for Victor today!! The actual day is November 17th, tomorrow, a Monday which happens to be a working and school day for most.

I was very excited too see all my buddies again! Aidan & Ian, Victor, Brandon and Conrad, 6 boys to drive Victor's Papa crazy!! ;) There were alot of food on the table, the most popular dish of the day for the Mamas & Papas was the spicy Bamboo shoots!!

We played, fought over Victor's toys till it was time to sing Happy Birthday and to cut the cake! Auntie Tine put on extra candles so all of us could help blew the candles out!! In fact, she had to light it twice because Aidan gege didn't get to blow any out the first time around.

Then it was time to unwrap the gifts! Amongst the gifts were; Thomas the Train set, Pooh musical instruments, cash register, Vtech camera, art supplies... Did you see the look of envy on our faces!! :)

All of us played with Victor's new toys, Thomas the train set was the favorite among us, boys!! Except for Conrad who was busy shopping at che che Kaylee's shopping market!
Then we proceeded downstairs and played in their indoors playground! What a fun fun day for us all!! :)

Thanksgiving Fundraiser

2008-11-16T17:30:00.006+08:00

Taiwan has a policy/law that if nobody sponsors a stray after 10 or 20 days(am unsure, will check), the animal has to be put to sleep. If you have been to Animals Taiwan, you'll be against that policy too!!

You see 2 legged or 3 legged dogs with such enthusiasm for life that puts many beings to shame!! How can we possibly deprive them of a chance to live or take that chance away from them?? It's cruel and really unkind!!

As a single individual, there are limitations to what I can do so I thought of a fundraiser to raise some money to help these animals at AT.

And of cos, a fundrasier would NOT be possible if not for the help of other wonderful volunteers, animal lover supporters and our sponsors for food and of cos, Hell's Kitchen!!

After thoughts:

I was kinda disappointed with the turn out, I expected more people as alot more RSVP!! But there were a couple of other major events going on that day in Taipei city; the blues bash, 90s nite...etc. Next time, we'll just sell the tickets in advance!! I had been on my feet since 2pm, never have I heard my name called more often in 1 night than ever!! (I wanted to dig a hole in the ground and bury myself...) At 12am, I was just exhausted... could hardly kept my eyes open and couldn't even drink another sip of beer...

Well... We raised $20,400ntd on door sales and $4,301 with donations so a total of $24,701ntd.

Well done everyone!!

*Pictures to come later~~

Michele's Daycare

2008-11-13T20:06:00.005+08:00

I miss my lil buddy Conrad, haven't seen him all that much even since he started daycare but since he has stopped kindy, (YAY!!) we can now spend more time with each other!!

Auntie Kate had a doctor's appointment and Mama offered to babysit Conrad so that I would have a playmate for that afternoon.

What did we do that afternoon? Played trains, shared a bike, pretended we were raincoat warriors, sang 'ktv', watched dvds, ate fruits and snacks...

Mama, can we please have Conrad over more?? I love having a playmate!! :)

Slumber Party!

2008-11-10T12:43:00.005+08:00

Is there anything better to do on a cold, wet day??

Bunk in with a Danish girl and her family? :) Since they're nice enough to drive all the way down to Taipei City to pick us up!! That'w what friends are for! *muacks*

Alan prepared a sumptuous dinner of tomato hot pot, chicken stew and fried chicken. After dinner, the kids played and took a loooong bath, yep all 3 of them! Victor even showered Brendan...

put the kids to sleep and came out to gossip about everything, even msn each other though we were just next to each other and of cos, guess what we did again... ATE!!

So much for my pre-pregnancy weight if this continues...

We got up at 10am the next day, Victor had missed kindy that day so it was gonna be a day of play and fun for the boys! I made some fried rice for lunch with whatever I could find in the fridge. Surprisingly, the fried rice turned out to be pretty delicious!! :)

I decided to do a lil craft with the boys, we made a beautiful Japanese Patchwork Butterfly and of cos the Mamas did most of the work! Then we went to get some dinner and it was time to make our way back home...

Thank you! As always, we had a wonderful time at the Chens.

44th President of United States of America

2008-11-06T12:38:00.007+08:00

Head to Head Results:
Obama - President
Electoral Votes: 364
Popular Votes: 66,115,541

McCain
Electoral Votes: 162
Popular Votes: 57,859,168

Barack Obama the 44th President of United States of America, the man who made history on November 4th 2008 by being the first black President of America.

To many, Obama meant change! All hoping for an economy boost in this slump!! And when I say all, I mean all, not just the Americans hoping for a change but the entire world is looking at Obama for some sort of a 'miracle'!!

http://www.change.gov/

Obama Merchandise: http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=tag_title_all&search_query=obama

Halloween Kids Party 2008

2008-11-02T21:20:00.003+08:00

We were gonna host a 'post Halloween party' at our apartment but Iling had graciously and generously opened up her house to us instead. (despite not knowing half the people who were gonna be there...) :) As we could have a BBQ instead of just ordering a party platter.

Guestlist:

1) Michele & Brendan
2) The Gertens
3) Tine, Victor & Mila
4) Sherry, Kaylee, Brandon & Amy
5) The Webbs
6) The Margos
7) Rocio, David & Florian
8) Iling, Alan, Connor & Amelia

Iling had prepared a wonderfully food spread! There were beef tacos, chicken quesadillas, hamburgers, sausages, pasta, salsa... and there was even sour cream for the tacos!

We started with Barney sing and dance with the kids and parents then we helped ourselves to the food and then we changed our little ones into their costumes. I was supposed to be a Hula girl and Brendan my Cabana boy BUT I was 'nursing a hangover' thus was too lazy to dress up. So my lil B was a Kitty Cabana boy... :)

Mommies hid in the rooms and the lil ones had to go around trick or treating, there were alot of goodies, from candies to cookies to stickers!!

Thank you all, we had a fabulous time!!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-02T21:07:00.003+08:00

I missed the Halloween Party at Hell's Kitchen last night as I thought it was on Saturday, the same day as Brass Monkey's. I aaranged to mee Jamie and Elsa at the Monkey, Larry said I could only leave after the lil one is in bed.

Lil B was such a babe, slept at 11pm so Mama could go out to party! :) I was dressed as a Hula girl! Wanted to 'blend in' with Jamie & Elsa, the belly dancers!! The Monkey was so packed that alot of the customers were standing outside to get a breather. At least 80% of the crowd dressed up, some handmade costumes, some expensive swanky costumes and others just painted their faces.

Elsa's hub, Mark was Hellraiser! He won the best costume, prize money of $5,000ntd cash and Miss Dominatrix won the prize for the sexiest costume. They wanted to go to Carnegies again to make it for the Halloween costume judging, I didn't really wanna go but they had promised that if Mark won again, they would donate the prize money to Animals Taiwan. Oh well, anything for AT!!

Mark came in second, I guess because they knew that he won the night before (in a different costume), prize money of $5,000ntd Carnegies Coupons. They kept their word and donated it to AT, maybe we could use it for the raffle or sell it for cash? Any takers??

We made our way to Hell's Kitchen for 1 beer after Carnegies, we had to drag Jamie out of Carnegies who was protesting that the judging was NOT fair!! ;)

Weekly Schedule

2008-10-31T08:40:00.003+08:00

Ok, am not a schedule person, so the likelihood of me keeping to this schedule is slim but I will try...

Lazy Monday: A day for lazing in and doing nothing except eat & sleep? Indoors and indoor play.

Animals Tuesday: Visit the shelter day and walk the dogs, at least once a fortnight.

Brendan Wednesday: Time devoted solely to B(that's everyday isn't it!!), theme parks, amusement parks... outdoor fun!

Art Thursday: Some kind of art or craft in a group or individually.

Luncheon Friday: Lunch with the ladies and then playgroup.

Playgroup Saturday: City playgroup every alternate Saturdays.

Mama Sunday: Ideally, this day is dedicated solely to me? And Daddy takes care of the lil one on this day?? :) *hopeful* *hopeful*

A Lil Shopping & Bowling

2008-10-31T03:35:00.004+08:00

Had to get some stuff for the Halloween party and the fundraiser, what better place to shop at? DAISO!! We love Daiso, the everything $39ntd store!! At times, I still question them about the cost of some of the items there...

Bren has his own little shopping basket too everytime we visit that place, he gets to do a lil of his own shopping! ;) Does he go overboard, neh... he always ask if he could have something before putting them into his cart! Today he wanted to get something for his friends, Aidan ge ge (big brother) and asked me if he could, I told him if he wanted to buy for Aidan, he had to get for Ian too as they are twins! So he got the same ambulance toy for Aidan and himself and a fire engine for Ian. (How did he know that? Coincidently, Ian is crazy over Fireman Sam)

We checked out with 20 items, we were kinda 'disciplined', decided not to look in the other sections, confined our shopping to just the children's and stationary section.

We stopped by the Arcade located on the same level, we played a few of the games and then we discovered the bowling game!! Virtual bowling, it seems so real! Brendan was thrilled and would squeal in delight everytime the ball came out from the slot. There were alot of splits and gutter balls but we had a fantastic time playing our virtual bowling!!

My Happy Brendan

2008-10-31T03:13:00.012+08:00

Am glad they have finally opened a branch of Yu Kids Island in Hsinyi!! Dazhi and Tienmu are kinda out of the way! But this branch is a super-mini one compared to the one in Dazhi!! Oh well, some play is better than no play?

I love the new Mitsukoshi A8, they have renovated the children's section on levels 4 and 5. You can find boutique labels on level 4 and a huge toy selection, furniture, photgraphy and a popcorn corner on the 5th floor. And of cos, Yu Kids Island tucked in the corner...

On weekdays, it's $200ntd for unlimited play all day! I actually brought B there in the afternoon, went home for a nap and dinner before heading back there again!! Talk about convenience!! (A very happy Mama & son-- I won't be bored hanging around there for 2-3 hrs)

The storevalue card: $2,000ntd gives you $2,400ntd, you can share the card amongst friends too! Talk about value for money!!

This will be our new local hangout, we'll be here at least once every 2 weeks??

TAS Food Fair

2008-10-26T10:34:00.024+08:00

It's the annual International Food Fair at Taipei American School (TAS), it also coincides with the city playgroup's Halloween Party! Being the glut that I am, of cos I had opted to go to the food fair afterall it's been marked on my calendar for ages already!!

And besides... we don't really celebrate Halloween, though I did think of having a party this year and have ordered some stuff from the states BUT they have not arrived yet.

Off to the fair we go...

As usual, it was superpacked!! I stopped by the M'sian booth and picked up some dried shrimp rolls, curry puff and prawn crackers then a familiar flag caught my eye, Singapore!! I HAD to have some Singapore food!! Laksa or chicken rice?? Since I had to share with lil B, I picked the chicken rice. All the selections and only 1 stomach!! Arrrggghh...

We made our way inside to see what other options there were...

Germany, Russia, France, Sweden... wait a min, isn't this the restaurant who doe not welcome kids to the restaurant? So won't this be the only place to taste their food unless we leave the lil ones at home?? Swedish meatballs and lingoberry sauce coming right up!! Ok... I couldn't fit any more food 'onto' the stroller, we definitely had to eat some of these first.

Thai, Hongkong...oooohh... char siew pao!! Japan... Yum! Sushi!! Where're my friends? Why did they have to go to the party?? How can I eat everything??

I've never tasted more delicious meatballs than these 3 tiny ones on my plate!! The gravy was just... ummmm... will definitely have to get a nanny to babysit Bren while this glut Mama goes pig out at the Swedish restaurant! And the fantastic news? They've moved closer to home! Yay!!

Italian, Pizza, Mexican... there is our pretty lil Amiga, Rocio!! Guacamole sold out! :( Have to try one of those authentic Mexican burritos and nachos with salsa!! Yummmmm...

All this while, lil B has been most patient with Mama as Mama had 'bribed' him with rides... :) But his patience is running out, so it was his turn for fun!

We stopped by AT's booth to say hi and to pet some dogs. Then Bren played toss the balls into the pool, I was worried that he might go in to take a lil dip! Then we went to play some marbles, ride the train and went fishing.

Alot of the food was gone after all the rides and play but we managed to get some ice cream. And lil B got to bounce around in the bouncy castle!!

Why is it only an annual event? Why can't they have it every semester?? Can't wait for the next one!! (Mama's thoughts aloud)

Pumpkin Art (Double Art Day)

2008-10-25T18:21:00.008+08:00

We were supposed to have pumpkin art last thursday but some of my friends were sick thus Mama postponed it to this thursday. We were supposed to draw and color a pumpkin and to make a Curly Sue.

There was a Halloween Party on Saturday and Mama thought it would be an appropriate time to make a pumpkin. But we are not going to the party as it coincides with Taipei American School's International Food Fair. And we're planning on going to the fair instead.

Mama had bought a new crockpot and has been waiting for a long time to use it, thus she decided that beef stew was on the menu for lunch!

My friends came at 12.30pm, a little later that day as Victor was going to come from kindy. Laura and Vincent were the first to arrive followed by Aidan and Ian then Victor and Mila and Auntie Kate and baby Rita came too to entertain us and to watch the fun!!

We started off with lunch and then some jelly for desserts and a little playtime then it was art!

Our Mamas drew eyes, nose and mouths for our pumpkins with a black marker and then we had to paint them in red, green or blue color. We had alot of fun painting our little pumpkins in all 3 colors but we didn't like sharing very much!!

After painting the pumpkins, Mama set the pumpkins aside to dry off. Then it was Curly Sue time. What exactly is a Curly Sue? It's a basically just a balloon with curly hair and a face!! :)

Wash Wash Wash

2008-10-23T21:24:00.003+08:00

"Hi, are you Carol's friend?"
"Is this the place for pumpkin drawing??"
"No... BUT we're having an art class, you must be Carol's friend?"

Pushes her way in, didn't respond to me, maybe she thought I was the maid?? (Yea right... dressed in off shoulders and make up??--fashionable maid)

So, we had art today at about 12.30pm, the guests stayed till about 2.45pm? Still dunno her name!!

"Carol, what's your friend's name? How come you don't introduce her?"
SHE replies "Oh, she will tell you her name!" (I was asking for the mother's name and NOT the daughter!! Ok... I give up! Am not gonna try some friendly small talk again!! This is MY house and yet I feel so uncomfortable today!! This is why I do NOT open up my house to strangers!!

Time for pumpkin drawing, I was telling them (the mothers) to draw faces on the pumpkins for the kids, SHE looks at me, then looks away!! HELLO!!! Arrrgggh!!

**REN** (Tolerate)

Then I had it! I blew!! Mother and daughter, in and out, in and out of the bathroom, they kept washing and washing their hands with my 'expensive' soap!! ($300ntd) Not that expensive but I didn't buy it exclusively for them to use!! And everytime I will have to turn off the lights after them!! The mother was kinda 'anal' about getting their hands dirty, thus kept washing and washing and washing, think she washed her hands about 20 times today!! (am NOT exaggerating!!)

And here we are teaching our kids to conserve water?? Sigh~~

Happy Birthday Papa!

2008-10-15T00:39:00.006+08:00

Papa's birthday is October 14th but he's been celebrating it for almost 2 weeks already!! We had dinner at Grandma's 2 Sundays ago as it was Papa's Lunar Chinese Birthday!! And ever since that Sunday, Papa has been out almost every night celebrating his birthday and playing mahjong!! Papa does indeed have ALOT of friends!!

Libra--Friends before family!! We can't change his horoscope sign can we?? So we'll just have to 'blend in' and love them... (Mama's thoughts)

But Papa is spending the actual day with his family and friends!! Mama picked a Japanese Yakiniku Restaurant (Maji) for dinner on Ta An road, a restaurant they've been going to for years before lil me was born.

The place was empty when we arrived, Conrad and I had our our table for our beer nuts and beer (Oolong tea). :) Boy, did we feel like we were grown ups!!

We had so much food; beef, chicken, pork, shrimps, bamboo shoots, salad...etc. we were all stuffed BUT we still had room for the beautiful chocolate cake Uncle Leo had picked out!! Chocolate cake with gold dust on it, it was like eating gold!!
Thank you Uncle Leo!!

Happy Birthday Papa!! I love you...

Baby Brendan

Christmas in October

2008-10-15T00:37:00.005+08:00

Kate's Mother and Aunt were visting from Minnesota end of September, these were her third batch of family visiting and on the other two ocassions, I've asked for address BUT forgot totally about 'checking out' my carts until too late!!

I wasn't late this round BUT I kinda forgot what was in my cart till we got the items... :) I don't recall buying 8 dvds or 2 Polo jackets!! Even Daddy *tsk*tsk*

Thank you soooo much Grandma Jan & Aunt Mary-Jo for bringing them!!

Santarina pop by cos you were good this year and gave you some early Christmas gifts!

Merry Christmas in October lil B from Mama & Papa!

Hakka Festival

2008-10-14T17:00:00.016+08:00

It was the 10/10 long weekend and there was also a Hakka Festival going on in Taipei City that weekend. The Festival was conveniently located (for some, not for those who stay in Hsinjuang BUT we do appreciate you coming down!! :) ) right across SYS Memorial Park.

So we arranged to meet up with Tine, Victor and Mila to go to the festival... We went in and out of the house three times that day as it kept raining and stopping, raining and stopping!! Arrrrgggh...

There wasn't much being exhibited, mainly some food vendors and stalls promoting their fabrics and handmade items.

But the 2 boys had a ball of a time playing with all the ball games!! Literally!! "A ball of a good time'!! :D From rolling balls to basketball and then a train ride, they went around and around and refused to get up!

After that we decided to walk over to SYS Memorial Hall to feed the fish BUT there were no fish! Taipei government had decided to clean up the pond after umpteen years and have given all the fish and turtles away and were gonna put new ones in the next week. Oh well, more running around, frisbee and golf for the boys?

We were met up by the Gerten boys who joined us for a lil while.

10-10 (Taiwan National Day)

2008-10-11T22:57:00.006+08:00

Public Holiday, kids home from school (some), Dads home (some). So? What should we do??

Mama had a fun day of activities planned for me and my friends! This was the email that went out:

Hello Ladies!

What you doing on friday? 10/10...

Kids will be home, hubs (some) will be off from work.

I've planned a day of fun and play for the kids!!

11am: Music (will be dancing and singing to Barney & more...)

11.45am: Lunch (Beef Stew & rice)

12.30pm: Beading

1pm: Crafts (Cut & Paste)

Our musical instruments will be making their 'debut' this friday after a year or more being in the red box!

Please do NOT expect 'professional' singing or dancing... :)

Full Parents paticipation is expected! heehee...

Please rsvp asap as I need to know how much food to prepare!

See ya!
My friends came at about 11.30am, Laura, Vincent, Brandon, Kaylee, Victor and Mila. We started with lunch first, Mama made some Swedish meatballs with mushroom sauce, 5 grain rice and steamed broccoli. After lunch, we had chocolate cake with ice cream, YUM!!

We played with my toys for a little while and then it was time for music!! Mama took out a red box full of musical instruments that have been sitting in there (brand new)for more than a year now.

We danced and sing along to music from Baby Genius dvds!! I had a fantastic dancing and 'monkeying' around with all my friends! We should do this more often Mama!! :)

7 Beautiful Cats

2008-10-07T00:43:00.011+08:00

I came to Taiwan with only 1 cat, Chocolate! I flew Chocolate in from Australia to Taiwan, in fact, he 's (and 6 others) the reason why am still here in Taiwan today after 7 years!! (TOO LONG!!) I almost took off 2 days after I got here, culture shock!! But stayed on because it wasn't that easy leaving with a cat, Taiwan may consider herself a 'rabies free' country BUT no other country recognizes that as they tend to associate Taiwan with China which is definitely NOT 'rabies free'.

Trapped! Yes, it has been 7 years already...

So I have 7 beautiful cats! Am thinking about adopting the 8th one!! But if there was a better home who could give her individual attention and love, she'll be better off there... All I can offer is a roof over her head, clean food and water everyday, love and kisses and hugs, a bath every month and 7 (+1 toddler) other siblings.

Ok, let me introduce our cats to you:

1) Chocolate
My majestic looking cat, also the King in our house! Sleeps on the pillow next to me or on top our my head every night. Chocolate actually came to me when I drove back for my exams in Gippsland. Didn't like cats then, fed him, found a box and cushioned it with my old sweater. He would sleep outside the dorm, till 1 day, I saw a note on the board "Thanks for feeding him whoever you are, we've taken the cat". Oh well, I did feel a lil sad....... 3 months down the road, (have kinda forgotten bout the black cat) was at my friend's for mahjong, they had 2 cats. Stayed over on their sofa, this black cat kept purring and nudging me!! Hmmmm... could it be 'my cat'??
Sure it is!! It was my cat!! :) FOUND!! I asked to take the cat back to my home for awhile, and that little while became forever!

2) Snowy
Snowy was given to me by a pet store in RuoHe Night Market. I couldn't comprehend why they would give such a beautiful cat away!! Their story was, he was delivering pet food to the owner and saw the owner about to set the cat free... how cruel!! She was only about 2-3 mths then. Well, I soon found out the real reason! ;) Snowy had really bad diarrhea and would make a HUGE mess on herself, I had to wash her about 5 times a day and brought her to many doctors for treatment. Look at her now! Such a beautiful and obedient girl!

3) Berry
Oh, my sweet little Berry. Also the Mother of Fuzzy and Spotty. She's a little kitty who is so tiny and sweet with the prettiest blue eyes, accompanied me throughout my pregnancy, we used to hug each other to sleep then. She doesn't do that with me anymore. :(

4) Vanilla
The talking cat! Also Berry's brother. Look at the difference in size!! Nilla is also the 'vacuum' in the family, 'sucking' up all the canned food and shrimps!! He can be really annoying at times because he'll keep meowing in the mornings till he gets fed!

5) Rocky
Our lil crazy puking cat! What can I say? He had an eye infection when I picked him up on the streets behind Sogo, I did not have the intention of keeping him back then, only wanted to take him to the vet and nurse him. But we ended up keeping him, he's one cat who pukes everyday!! Sigh~~ well, he did teach Bren the word 'vomit'!!

6) Fuzzy
Berry's daughter! I suspect Fuzzy is a lil blind, Berry used to follow her around and is still extremely protective of her! She is the only cat who is not neutered, I couldn't bring myself to neuter her in her condition. So almost every month when she is in heat, we'll have to put up with her 'calling' and keep her under our watchful eye. She is also an affectionate lil one who likes to sleep on our pillows.

7) Spotty
My cute lil Spot!! At times I wonder if he is actually a cat, he LOVES water!! Ihave to leave the tap running or sprinkle him with water everyday!! He's also my favorite lil one and Bren's playmate. Spotty was actually 'motionless' at birth and Berry had refused to lick him, I kept rubbing him till he moved and kinda 'forced' Berry to lick and nurse him. He nursed till he was more than 1 yr old, in fact so did Fuzzy.

Tui Na

2008-10-04T13:48:00.003+08:00

What exactly is Tui Na?

"Tui-Na is the branch of Chinese medicine that treats the patient using only the physician's hands to bring about a change in the patient's condition. Like Chinese medicine itself, Tui-Na can be viewed as a sum of three different styles or systems. It essentially boils down to three main skills - soft tissue treatment, skeletal alignment, and energy issuance. Tui-Na is the least invasive of the 3 modalities of traditional Chinese medicine, with no foreign substance whatsoever penetrating the patient's skin or being ingested. While the casual observer may draw parallels with massage or chiropractic, Tui-Na is a very different science when viewed as a whole, even though there are techniques within Tui-Na that resemble the other two modalities of manual therapy."

Well, there's a whole website dedicated to Tui Na!
http://www.tui-na.net/

Had to go for tui na and blood cupping today! Pulled a tendon that's what the shifu said. Was on the mrt about 4 days ago when a lady tried to cross infront of our stroller to get to the other side, the mrt jerked and she almost fell on my lil B BUT my hand came out and push her back, thus 'pulling a tendon/muscle'??

If you're 'horizontally challenged' person, please please do NOT attempt to walk/cross infront of a stroller in a moving mrt because you might fall back and hurt the baby? Always walk/cross behind the stroller!! Well... everyone out there, please always walk behind a stroller, to save the Mama the agony and the pain of going through tui na and blood cupping!!

So... I have poor blood circulation, tight muscles. I need to exercise more! Apparently, walking is not good enough an exercise. Hmmmm... tough! It's so much easier to travel by mrt or to walk to places when you have a stroller. Cabs are cheap in Taiwan but the hassle of folding and unfolding the stroller amidst the bustling traffic in Taipei and the ever rushing cab drivers, 2 reasons why I prefer not to cab when I have the stroller. Unless I'm absolutely beat from walking! I miss it when I could still carry Bren in the carrier and just cab... Well, I can still carry him but it does put a lil strain on the back!! Many would think he's light compared to other 2 yr olds but this Mama is also petite and not a very strong lady. :)

Snooze... Snores...

2008-09-28T18:17:00.006+08:00

My Cheeky lil B!! This is what he did on typhoon day right after getting up from his nap!! haha!! Hilarious!!!

Jangmi Day Crafts

2008-09-28T18:16:00.002+08:00

What we did on typhoon day? More crafts again...

Daddy went out and got us lunch while we stayed in nice and dry! Daddy bought 3 boxes of food!! Does he think that we will be confined indoors all day?

After lunch Mama asked if I wanted to do some art and craft since she had bought so many crafts for lil me to play around with. We decided to do 'My Family', Mama held my hand and drew the outlines of 3 people, then I was given different colored felt tees to choose which I wanna paste. After sticking on the tees, I wanted to stuck some stars too! Viola! Finito!! I showed Papa my work and he was proud of it and so was Mama!! :)

Jia You! Jia You!

2008-09-28T18:14:00.003+08:00

Watching Taiwan Super Idol, standing on top on 2 packs of cat litter (he thinks its the stage??) and performing!!

This Could Get Big! Typhoon Jangmi

2008-09-28T17:28:00.003+08:00

"Typhoon Jangmi, the most powerful typhoon to hit Taiwan this year, is predicted to
land on the island via the northeastern county of Yilan or the eastern counties of Hualien and Taitung this afternoon, prompting the government and the nationals to take countermeasures against possible disasters. "

http://chinapost.com.tw/taiwan/national/national%20news/2008/09/28/176494/Typhoon%2DJangmi.htm

It was rated as Hurricane 5 on CNN, HOLY SMOKES!! Just chewck what a hurricane 5 is!!!

http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/aboutsshs.shtml

"Category Five Hurricane:
Winds greater than 155 mph (135 kt or 249 km/hr). Storm surge generally greater than 18 ft above normal. Complete roof failure on many residences and industrial buildings. Some complete building failures with small utility buildings blown over or away. All shrubs, trees, and signs blown down. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Severe and extensive window and door damage. Low-lying escape routes are cut by rising water 3-5 hours before arrival of the center of the hurricane. Major damage to lower floors of all structures located less than 15 ft above sea level and within 500 yards of the shoreline. Massive evacuation of residential areas on low ground within 5-10 miles (8-16 km) of the shoreline may be required. Only 3 Category Five Hurricanes have made landfall in the United States since records began: The Labor Day Hurricane of 1935, Hurricane Camille (1969), and Hurricane Andrew in August, 1992. The 1935 Labor Day Hurricane struck the Florida Keys with a minimum pressure of 892 mb--the lowest pressure ever observed in the United States. Hurricane Camille struck the Mississippi Gulf Coast causing a 25-foot storm surge, which inundated Pass Christian. Hurricane Katrina (pdf), a category 5 storm over the Gulf of Mexico, was still responsible for at least 81 billion dollars of property damage when it struck the U.S. Gulf Coast as a category 3. It is by far the costliest hurricane to ever strike the United States. In addition, Hurricane Wilma (pdf) of 2005 was a Category Five hurricane at peak intensity and is the strongest Atlantic tropical cyclone on record with a minimum pressure of 882 mb. "

Nite Out or Date Nite??

2008-09-28T00:25:00.004+08:00

It was Gay Pride today in Taipei, I was supposed to have the day and night off to go out with some friends.

"Run the Rainbow Way

Time & Route
Date: 27 Sep. 2008
Time: Gather at 13:00, Leave at 14:00
Location: Taipei City Hall Square
Route: Taipei City Hall Square → RenAi Rd. → AnHe Rd. → ZhongXiao East Rd.
→ YatSen Rd. → RenAi Rd. → Taipei City Hall Square"

http://www.twpride.net/

BUT it was raining, and I was feeling kinda lazy and lil B was extremely adorable today! I couldn't bear to leave him... ayyy... So instead, we went on a date! Yep! Just lil B and I, we went for a lil stroll and an mrt ride to the chicken soup restaurant behind Sogo. Lil B ate a whole bowl of 'Mee Sua' and 1/2 a bowl of cabbage!! I'm so glad I stayed in and not go out!!

Larry called like 6 times after my dinner to asked if I wanted to go out, he was gonna attend a wedding dinner and wanted to take lil B with him. I refused!! I didn't want him drinking with lil B in tow, I know he'll drink at least a glass of whatever. I've never seen Larry so 'enthusiastic' about baby sitting Bren before!! His excuse? "He wanted to show Brendan off to his suppliers and workers". (well... he can do that in his sober state)

Miao Kou-- Keelung Nite Market

2008-09-28T00:11:00.004+08:00

We decided to have dinner at Miao Ko, Keelung Night Market after the beach. It was the first for me despite being in Taiwan for 7 years!! Fortunately, Alan knew the route there and around Keelung well enough to navigate us. (Cos Larry didn't!!) We've only been to Keelung for seafood and to say goodybye to the Star Cruise (couldn't leave with an expired visa--this was before lil B came along).

Hmmm... what shall we eat? The night market was bustling with hawkers and people!! We couldn't decide what to eat, till Alan suggested that we try what Kellung Night Market was famous for: "Dingbian Zuo", it taste like rice noodles with meatballs and shrimp balls in mushroom and vegetable soup.

http://www.wintimes.com.tw/play/200/200.htm

Then we stopped for desserts after dinner. Yes, yes, we have a '3 Brothers Beancurd' on our food street too but it's different! They came from Keelung, so this particular branch might taste better? :)

Look at the rows and rows of crabs!! I had to have a crab! My favorite favorite food!! (boy! do i crave for chilli crabs from Singapore!!) So we ordered a crab to go... :) And I had to take a picture of the GIANT tentacles waiting to be bbqed!! Fortunately I don't eat squid, can't imagine having that squirming in my tummy!!!

http://tour.klcg.gov.tw/english/b/b01_01.asp?sid=33&id=384

Off to the Beach

2008-09-18T01:39:00.011+08:00

We went to the Howard Resort exactly a year ago, Brendan couldn't walk the last time we were here. Now he's walking, running, jumping, he's everywhere!! :) So, the 3 Amigas and Amigos and the lil Amigos met up at the Howard Resort Greenbay for lunch and a whole day of fun at the beach and pool. It's $900ntd an adult which includes buffet lunch and excess to both the private Howard beach and pool, free for kids under 101cm.

We all rushed through lunch I believe everyone just couldn't wait to get in the water, it was such a scroching HOT day!! We started at the beach but it was kinda dirty, hmmm... whatever to the nice, clean beach from last year?? (must be the typhoon...) It was kinda TOO hot to stay at the beach and Brendan found the sea water kinda too salty!

So Tine's family and mine headed back to the pool area for some splishing and splashing in the water!

The lil ones were very hungry after the swim and they feasted on the yummy snacks their Mamas had brought them, then it was time to wash up and more snacking after clean up.

**was waiting for Papa to upload pictures from his iphone before i decide what to post here BUT alas!! simply ain;t uploading to comp. :(

Children's Museum of Taipei (CMOT)

2008-09-18T01:39:00.009+08:00

I thought we go there again before they shut their doors in November. The Children's Museum of Taipei is closing!! http://www.cmot.com.tw Yep, how sad! And I thought they were doing so well, I blame Baby Boss! This is similar to Baby Boss but much smaller in size and it caters for younger kids or rather, kids under 3 are able to play in there unlike BB where you have to be at least 3 to be able to participate in the role plays.

So we met up with Kate, Conrad & Rita, Tine, Victor & Mila. The 3 Amigas and the 3 Amigos. Brendan, Conrad and Victor had a fabulous time exploring the museum and the various sections of it. Rolling the balls, Tractor (Bob the Builder), Cafe, Bubbles, Infant Play Area with slide and a 'tree house', Fire Engine, Supermarket, Stamping, TV Station, Building Blocks, there's also an area for crafts, painting and dressing up but of course our boys were not interested in those areas!

They loved the Supermarket and was so excited about scanning each and every item they could lay their hands on to hear the 'BEEP' sound! Pretty soon, they were pretty good at making their own sound effects too!

After about 2.5hrs of playtime, we decided it was snack time for the lil Amigos and headed outside for some snacks and I brought Brendan and Conrad up & down the elevator, making all the 'silly sound effect noises' whilst going up and down the elevator!! WHHHeeeezzzz... Lil Victor didn't wanna leave without Mama!!

The 3 Amigos went into Toyland for more play!! This time with Thomas the Train set...

*heaps of pictures taken, please view my flickr acct. if you wanna see more!

www.flickr.com/brendanchiang

Can I sue??

2008-09-15T23:59:00.002+08:00

Nothing in life comes for free or cheap, I go by that belief and should have stuck to it!!! BUT who could resist cheap diapers especially when they went on further discount! Ayy... women and their 'cheap thrills'!!! (Thats what I used to hear in the casino)

Penny wise pound foolish

I guess Bren is just allergic to Mamy Poko!! The first time we tried MP, we rush to ER that night as his entire bum was covered with rash! Larry was really skeptical when I wanted to buy MP again especially this pack as it was really cheap...

See what MP has done to my lil one again!! :(

Sorry babe, no more cheap diapers ever again.

Sinlaku Day II

2008-09-15T23:42:00.002+08:00

Ok, feeling kinda lazy today and it's Sunday! Larry came back from a BBQ and drinking session at about 5am in the morning!!! (no wonder he didn't wanna take us- Grrrr)

Bren and I got up at bout 12.30pm :) I was still lazing in bed while the lil one 'hunted' for food... (Cheerios) Then I finally got out of bed and went to get some real food carrying lil B with the Ergo.

Oooooooh Desperate Housewives Season III Marathon!! Does it come at a better time?? Back to bed... built Thomas the train tracks for the lil one to play by himself while mama watch D.H!! Lalalalala

Didn't really wanna get out of bed for dinner, but lil B wanted some food, didn't wanna eat leftover pizza. But someone did! ;)

Craving for Macs & apple pie, apple strudel!!
Mcdonalds, ordered at 11.30pm, delievered at 1.30am!! Can you believe that!! And the lil one would not sleep until he got his fries!! Oh well... typhooooon day!

WHERE CAN I GET GOOD APPLE PIE OR APPLE STRUDEL???

Art & Craft on Sinlaku Day

2008-09-13T18:02:00.003+08:00

So what did we do on typhoon day? Arts and crafts!!

Mama drew me a tree so that I could do some cut and paste and some finger paiting too!

This is what you need:

1) Paper
2) Finger Paints
3) Green Paper
4) Cute stickers
5) Glue
6) Scissors

Ok, we finished the craft in less than 20 mins with a lil distraction from Sesame Street.

More indoor fun.........

Ravensburger color puzzle, kinda surprised Mama that I knew the colors and was able to put them all together correctly!! :) (do i get more Thomas??)

Mega Typhoon Sinlaku

2008-09-13T17:47:00.008+08:00

All typhoons in Taiwan are over-rated!! Ok, most, not all. Apparently the media does it so that they don't get 'blamed' if a real mega one comes. How typical to shrink from responsibilities!

From a mega typhoon to a mediocre one BUT enough to cause enough rain so that we are not able to BBQ this Mooncake Festival!! :( And we were so looking forward to bbq at Tania's!!

"Typhoon Sinlaku lashed Taiwan on Saturday with powerful winds and heavy rains across the island that disrupted flights and train services as well as celebrations for a major holiday.
The typhoon also disrupted power and telephone services in nearly 50,000 households, the agency said.

Schools across the island were shut down for the weekend as a precaution and thousands of fishing boats were also sheltering in ports.

Organisers have cancelled or postponed outdoor celebrations in Taipei and several other cities for the weekend's Mid-Autumn Festival.

"Sinlaku is expected to be nearest early Sunday but its impact is likely to last till Monday as it is moving very slowly," a Central Weather Bureau forecaster said.

At 14:30 pm, Sinlaku was 90 kilometres east-southeast of Ilan on the northeast coast, moving at six kilometres per hour.

The bureau has warned residents across the island, particularly those in coastal and mountain regions, to take precautions against flooding and mudslides as the typhoon is likely to generate rainfall of up to 1,300 millimetres (50 inches)."

News excerpt

Seeing Double?!

2008-09-11T20:43:00.005+08:00

I walked into the room the other day; HEY!! Didn't I just pet you in the living room? Why are you now in the room?? Oh... it's Spotty not Chocolate!! They both look SO much alike now. Father & son.

Chocolate, my 1st cat, brought him to Taiwan from Australia. From 1 cat to 7 cats... and now maybe 8??

Edible Soaps?

2008-09-09T02:34:00.004+08:00

Just had to blog this!! Look at the soaps... Don't they look edible!! Ok... from shower gels and liquid soaps back to the conventional bars of soaps. We're going back to using these conventional soaps again!

If anybody wanna get some: www.loveleesoaps.etsy.com

Things 2 Do & Places 2 Go

2008-09-04T01:55:00.006+08:00

Before Summer is gone and the cold cold winter is here... (Intend to go within these 2 months)

1) The Beach (Baishawan: really only one beach in Taipei, kinda far out too!)
We've yet to go to this beach this summer except for Hualien and the 'beach' next to Taipei Cityhall.

2) Taipei Water Park (not just splashing around in the 'wading pool'!!Slides and jets, here we come!!!)
We went once this Summer with the Webbs but the twins were too afraid to venture into the section with all the slides and the bubble jets.

3) Wei Chuan Pushin Ranch (in Yangmei http://www.weichuan-ranch.com.tw/)
We can feed the cows, rabbits, bottle feed the pigs, cows or calves, milk the cows, ride on the pony, pedal swan boats on the nice lake; rent bicycles; look at the exhibit of beautiful butterflies; see a magic show; climb on great outdoor play stuff; fly a kite on the large green lawns; barbecue at the many barbecue pits; even camp overnight. Wow! I'm there!!

4) Paddle Boats @ Bitan
Maybe?? Kinda too far out from Hsin Yi!

5) My Story Island (http://www.mystoryisland.com/info.php)
Intend to give it another try now that Bren is older? He might like it?? (though mama didn't quite enjoy it) but I do like the decor of the place and the art on the walls! And I see that they've just changed the paintings again!! But we could do this in the winter too.

6) Miramar Ferris Wheel
Have yet to go there with lil B!! Will make an attempt to take him there and stop for some yummy Indian Curry!!

7) Tamshui
Go on that lil boat ride again from tamshui to Bali?? And maybe stop by the Museum in Kuandu??

8) Yeliu
Been wanting to go to Yeliu to see the 'Queen's head' for the longest time...

9) Kenting!!
Picking the 'perfect' date to head out there, should we go now or to wait till it's cooler out there?? 2 hrs on the high speed train and 2.5 hrs by bus, maybe we should just fly there? How long is the flight out to Kenting?? Am soooo lazy this summer to go anywhere, won't even move my lazy butt around tw let alone out of tw!

10) BBQ!!!
Have yet to bbq this summer!! It's killing me!! Well, Tania is having a bbq on the 13th, next Saturday. It says BYO: bring your own meat and drinks... hmmmm... drinks... Will the lil one be allowed to go??

11) Bouncy Town! (only here till Oct 9th)
Also kinda far out, in Shilin, next to the National Science Center. http://www.ntsec.gov.tw/

Fat Cat!

2008-09-03T17:52:00.003+08:00

Why are all my cats SO fat?? 5 of my cats were stray cats when we found them, 2 are their babies. All of them seem so small and tiny when we found them, waht happened?? So if my strays could become such fat lil ones, why can't my son?? :(

So, called the shelter today to ask more bout the stray lil kitten without 2 senses, she is grey in color, we've white, black and brown, maybe grey to add on to our litter of cats? :) Afterall, 7 or 8 cats, just a difference of 1 right?? Am sure my cats will take good care of the lil one.

Eating w Chopstiks!

2008-09-01T19:49:00.001+08:00

Welcome Bac Papa!

2008-08-31T00:12:00.003+08:00

Papa is back from Macau! I was trying to sleep when Papa came in and called me... 'Bren Bren'... Papa! Yay!!

Papa is back from Macau with gifts!! :) Papa bought me my favorite character from Thomas, Bertie the Bus!!! He got me the wooden version of it and more clothes!! Am I a lucky kid or what?

And we're off to the Webbs for playgroup tomorrow, ok... better get some sleep if not I won't have the energy for playgroup tomorrow!

Little Painters IV

2008-08-31T00:07:00.003+08:00

Cooling off and snacking at McDonalds while waiting for the husbands(some) for diiner. The kids had their own idea of 'in and out the mulberry bush' instead they went in and out the 'mulberry vent'!! It was kinda hilarious to see them going and out... Cute and smart and pretty creative kids we have!! ;) They'll make fantastic biz partners in the future!!

We've decided to eat at Outback (again)... Rocio and Kate joined us for dinner too! Kids and Mamas were beat after dinner!

Little Painters III

2008-08-29T00:50:00.008+08:00

Unbelievable!! We had the beach all to ourselves today... why? Cos they had the annual air raid drill at 2.30pm and we were there like 5 mins before the drill before the civil defence guys came to ask us to go indoors to Taipei City Hall Building and we came out right after the drill...

I love it that the 'beach' is located right in the smack of the city, facing 101 building!! But... where is the water??

Little Painters II

2008-08-29T00:07:00.007+08:00

After art, we had lunch, Mama made some macaroni w chicken, shrimp and mushrooms and brownies for dessert (Thanks Auntie Kate). Then it was more playtime and dvd time. That is when I was hit on the head with a die cast train! *ouch*

Little Painters

2008-08-28T22:43:00.005+08:00

How artistic are you?

2008-08-28T00:15:00.002+08:00

Mama's not very artistic and yet we host Art once every fortnight!! It used to be every week but I think it was getting too much for her (the mess and all) and I secretly think that she was running out of ideas!! Heheee... :)

I see her surfing around reading bout arts and crafts and shopping around for art materials. Actually, I think she may NOT be artistic, but she has some pretty cool ideas! Like tomorrow, we'll all be lil painters, we'll be painting the walls of the spare room.

How fun is that?? Can't wait!!

Hello Elvis!

2008-08-26T01:06:00.004+08:00

We went down to the shelter (Animals Taiwan) today to visit our new pet, Elvis! along with the Webbs. The taxi driver spent bout 20 mins driving in loops before the lady from the shelter came to direct us to them.

I was a little taken aback when we first arrived at the entrance of the shelter;
1) No signboard (think will get one of Larry's suppliers to donate one!)
2) All the barks!!
3) Really runned down...

When we got in, I was or we were overwhelmed by the barks and the number of dogs we saw there, needless to say, lil B was petrified!! There were about 60 dogs in different sections. All very friendly, just wanted a pet or two from us!!

Asked to see Elvis, brought him a lil treat, 3 doggy bones. Next time we go there, I'll prepare 60!! Felt sooo bad that we didn't have enough bones to give to all the dogs. (Sigh~~)

Elvis is such a sweet, smart and obedient dog! Think he's a cross between a German shepard and a Coolie. I absolutely fell in love with him when I saw him. We brough him for a walk in the park across from the shelter, we were told that he LOVES going for walks depite having only 3 legs. He could even tell us and directed us back to the shelter when he was too tired to continue.

Then we visited the 'cat room', heard there was a cat that was born without 2 senses: sight and smell. Wish we could take it home to provide it with adequate care, afterall we do already have 7 cats, what's another?? Hmmm... 8 cats?? :) I believe my cats will take good care of it?? Ok, will talk to Larry when he's back from Macau or when he takes us to the shelter one day.

The Webbs adopted a pet too!! Sausage, am adorable black dog who simply just followed Aidan around and even kiss him at the shelter. The 2 boys had chemistry!!

Brendan became less petrified after we got back from our walk at the park, he even called out to Elvis and waved goodbye to all the dogs when it was time to go.

Ok, managed to get 2 dogs sponsored now! Goal: 30 (have set it low)

Thank you Yvette & Carol!!

If any of you reading our blog would like to sponsor a pet too, please please have a look at this website or contact Animals Taiwan!! All it takes is just $15usd/$500ntd/$22sgd a month and you can bring a whole lot of wags to a dog!!

http://animalstaiwan.org/sponsor.htm

sponsor@animalstaiwan.org

Our New Pet: Elvis

2008-08-25T00:02:00.004+08:00

I LOVE animals!! If I ever win the lottery, I'll set up an animal shelter and take in all the strays!! So, please let me win the lottery... :)

I want lil B to grow up loving animals too! And of cos, to be kind to animals as well. He's ok with cats and will not hesitate walking up to stray cats on the streets and pet them, afterall we do have 7 cats! But he's terrfied of dogs!! I dunno why at all... dogs seem to love him and always wanna 'be friends' with him by sniffing him up, but he'll just scream and yell for Mama to help! He won't even attempt to pet them. Sigh~~

They are supposed to be the same, no? Brendan was born in the year of the Dog too. So hopefully with the adoption of our 3 legged furry baby, he'll grow to love dogs too?

Everyone, meet Elvis!! Isn't he such a good looking dog? Looks really faithful too...I can't wait to meet Elvis, think I'll make a trip down to the shelter this week!!

Letter from Elvis:
"Woof woof Woof --- Hi Tang Jo!

Liza told me you want to sponsor one of us, so I decided to offer myself to be your pet! My name is Elvis. People say I am a lovely dog with only three legs but tons of personality and a warm heart. I love walking but sometimes, I must confess, I like to lie down. But when I do it, I just need to be firmly encouraged. After that, I can walk a long way with no problem. I personally think I am a handsome dog with a beautiful coat and lovely and tender looking eyes.

I am so happy you will sponsor me! Can you please send your mailing address, so our sponsorship coordinator can send you my sponsorship certificate and tell you more about me and how I happen to lose one of my leg. It brings me back very painful memory, but today, I am so happy that you are my special friend. I have also made a speical moon festival greeting card for you. I hope you like it. It got my photos in it! Don't you agree I am a very good looking guy?!

Please come visit me one day!

Your furry,

Elvis"

So, if anyone of you would like to sponsor a pet too, please obtain more information from this website: www.animalstaiwan.org

Thank you!

Macau without Us!!!

2008-08-24T01:02:00.002+08:00

That's right! Big daddy is going to Macau and staying at the Venetian without us! :( Though we have promised to be good and all he still says 'No', we can't go as he's going there for work!

BUT Mama has demanded a trip somewhere with lil me! So it's either Hongkong Disneyland, Bangkok or maybe simply Kenting.

6 Piece Puzzle

2008-08-22T10:11:00.005+08:00

Well, I did it infront of Papa one night when Mama was out and Daddy was absolutely shocked!! Mama has been waiting for me to do it eversince and finally I pieced it together infront of my Mama.

And what did I get for doing that?? A new Thomas the train set: Morgan's Mine Set!! :)

Ladies Nite Out

2008-08-22T10:09:00.004+08:00

Have actually had quite a few of that! Larry has been sweet enough to babysit Bren so that I can have a couple of nites out with friends!

Almost the same routine, going to the same places minus Carnegies as I do NOT wish to be associated as a 'Taiwanese working girl'!! Brass Monkey it is!

Met and made a couple of new friends, both men and women...actually more men though. ;) Met the 2 American Baseball Umpires: Scott Higgins and Ramon Armendariz, very down to earth and nice people.

Managed to catch the Olympics Opening on big screen at the Brass, watch the basketball and of cos, the big game of rugby: South Africa vs New Zealand. Met Tania and Jamie that night too and boy did we party!! Till 4.30am... yes! was a torture waking up the day after!!

Was supposed to be at the othe big game again tonight but my body doesn't seem to be taking it well at all! First signs of 'being old' or 'getting old'??? Anyhow, it's sooooooo diiferent partying now when you're a mom, I think about lil B all the time!! Keep looking at his picture on my cell phone.

Oh well! So much for my nites out??

Losing Wisdom, Gaining Pounds

2008-08-15T02:32:00.000+08:00

Going Green

2008-08-12T14:53:00.014+08:00

"How Green Are You?"

Ever since I started selling my stuff on etsy, I'm kinda more supportive of handmade products as they are more environmentally friendly and I would like to support my fellow Etisans. And of cos, another website to shop at!! :)
www.etsy.com

So no more LVs, Chanels & Pradas! Only handmade fabric bags from now? Hmmm... well, have bought quite a few now and have yet to receive them. Think will use them for grocery bags, so say goodbye to "Paper or Plastic".

And I've purchased some 'anti-bacterial' hand towels, made from bamboo??
"Bamboo fabric is natural and Eco-friendly. Naturally anti-bacterial and odor-resistant, even after washing. Nearly three times more absorbent than cotton, the fibers of the bamboo plant are naturally porous, so they absorb and wick moisture away from the skin, keeping you cool and dry." They're cheap and pretty too!!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13925030

Ps & Qs

2008-08-12T13:37:00.002+08:00

"Mommy, switch on please."

Brendan's first sentence in English, asking me to turn the TV on and play Barney for him! Yep, Ps & Qs, he's a polite lil boy who says 'xie xie' all the time!! :)

Art: Picture for Daddy

2008-08-09T16:35:00.010+08:00

New friends coming for art! And we're making a Father's Day gift! Daddy's Day is August 8th in Taiwan, in Chinese 88 sounds like 'Papa', so it's 'papa jie'(Jie is festival in Chinese).

I was born on Daddy's Day in 2006, but neither my mommy or daddy knew it was Daddy's Day till after I popped! :) So I am a 'Daddy's Boy'!!

Today we're gonna make a picture frame for Daddy with cute lil wooden animal stickers. We even had a few extra frames to make for Gramps since Conrad, Florian and Angela couldn't make it for art.

Mama made some Oolong Noodles with teriyaki wagyu beef and mushrooms and broccoli for lunch. Yum!! After lunch, we had a smashing time playing with Thomas the train and racing around in my cars. But mama waas really tired after all that cleaning!!

Oh! I also said my first sentence today!! 'Wo yao wan' which means I wanna play!! The Webb twins taught me that.

Taipei Water Park

2008-08-09T16:35:00.003+08:00

Art yesterday, Water park today and sand pit tomorrow!! Hooray!! 3 whole days of FUN!! Thanks Mama!!

We spent an hour on the train, would normally take bout 20 mins but mommy got so lost switching trains and yes, she has been in Taiwan for 7 years!! It would have been alot easier to hop into a taxi but Mama didn't wanna load and unload with all the baggage.

There was supposed to be a Friday playgroup at the water park but we couldn't find anyone as they were NOT specific about which part of the park they were gonna be at... So it was just the Webb twins and I!

We had alot of fun splashing around (especially trying to wet dear Auntie Carol!) and playing ball at the 'waddle pool', the Webb twins were not adventurous enough to try out the water slides and all the splishy and splashy!!

http://waterpark.twd.gov.tw/english/waterpark/waterpark.htm

Have to go back soon with a lil bit more adventure in the water!!

The Easel is Up!!

2008-08-09T16:30:00.005+08:00

The easel has been lying around for the longest time!! More than 1 year till Daddy finally decided to put it up so I can doodle on it!! FINALLY!! After waiting for more than a year...

Thanks!

PG @ the Webb Twins

2008-08-09T16:27:00.001+08:00

It's the second time we're meeting up with the weekend playgroup and the Webbs have generously offered their house for our playgroup session. It was gonna be a 'Potluck Tea/Dinner'. Mama made some Chicken Fajitas along with some Guacamole & Salsa dip.

Quite a few playdates turned up that day! We had Jennifer with Jade and Alyssa, Kim with Julia, Sherry with Brandon and Kaylee, Daisy with Laura and Vincent, Lil B and Mama and of cos the Webb twins; Aidan and Ian.

And there were alot of food too! We had fried rice, quiche, donuts, sweet potato chips and fajitas and lots of cookies and drinks.

I had a fun time playing with all the cars and Thomas the twins had, I enjoyed the parking garage most!

School Talk

2008-08-01T02:48:00.004+08:00

So Larry comes home one day and ask,

"Hey, what school are we gonna send Brendan to? Fushing or xxx (can't remember the name)??
I looked at him and said, I think Brendan is only 2 and you know which school I wanna send him to!!
Won't you consider Fushing? We won't have to ballot, we can 'pull strings' and get Brendan in there... Since you want to send him to TES, why don't you consider TAS? TAS is better!!
TES kids are more well-behaved and well-mannered and I like the education there!
TAS is for foreign passport holders only! Those who can't get into TAS go to TES, so TAS is 'better' and it's more exclusive."

Ok, here're talking about sending Brendan to a private school, spending about $100,000-$200,000ntd a semester!! When all I really want is for B to have the basic foundation of Chinese and then we'll leave Taiwan when he's grade 3 to get away from the 'stressful' education system in Asia. Enough of private education, think I'll just send B to a public school to learn his Chinese.

Oh well, now... in selecting a kindergarten or a nursery first. Full day or half day? Is there one that starts in the afternoon??

Meal Times

2008-07-30T02:12:00.004+08:00

2 years 1 month and 12 days old and Mama is still breastfeeding exclusively!! (only milk he takes)

From 24 months onward: Continue breastfeeding if both mother and child wish and give family foods five times a day.

Babies fall ill frequently as they begin to crawl, walk, play, drink and eat foods other than breastmilk. A sick child needs plenty of breastmilk. Breastmilk is a nutritious, easily digestible food when a child loses appetite for other foods.

Breastfeeding can comfort a child who is upset.
http://www.unicef.org/ffl/04/7.htm

http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/bf/benefits.shtml

http://www.motheringfromtheheart.com/Benefits.htm

I wish others will STOP telling me that breastfeeding is no longer beneficial for children after 1 year, what do they know?? Ok, enough on the milk. Next topic...

Food & Chewing & Swallowing!! How do I get my lil B to chew and SWALLOW his food?? He ain't no hamster!! Why does he keep his food in the mouth?? So, mealtimes can be an agonizing 2-3 hrs....... HELP!!

3 Whole Days!!

2008-07-29T00:41:00.003+08:00

That's right! Papa spent 3 whole days with us! Papa has been extremely busy with work and hasn't spend much time at home at all except for Sundays so to have him for 3 whole days is simply just WONDERFUL!! :) Thanks Typhoon Fung Wong!

On Saturday, Mama brought me to have ramen, we walked the entire ShinKong area in search for a Japanese Restaurant but we just couldn't find no ramen! So we ended up in Neo19, Azabu Soba for some ramen. Then we went to get some bubbles and headed to SYS Memorial Park to wait for Papa.

I had so much fun blowing bubbles and feeding the fish and turtles in the park with Papa, wish we could do it every Saturday! Then it was time to head home to get ready for Ah Gong's Birthday Dinner @ Shin Yeh. Mama managed to get out of dinner and went shopping! Boy, was she happy meeting us again with bags of shopping!!

Mama's thoughts:

It was great having Larry around for 3 days!! (after many months!!) Though he's always busy with work, he still makes it a point to leave Sundays for us. :) I managed to go for 2.5-3 hrs of foot massage, back rub and facial on Sunday! The rub 'tui na' hurt a little but I felt so good after, still feeling good... and I also managed to make my guacamole after my 3rd attempt of buying avocados!! Finally, I didn't have to discard them! Now I need some nachos!! Ok K, I've 'skip updated' my blog... would you like to try my guacamole?

Maokong Gondola

2008-07-29T00:40:00.001+08:00

http://www.taipeitravel.net/maokong/en/index.asp

Summer & Mossies

2008-07-29T00:39:00.006+08:00

Summers in Taiwan. I was born in summer, am a summer boy! But at times it can get TOO hot, it may even go up to 41-43 celsius!! Mossies & Summers... they seem to go hand in hand, see what the mossies did to my eye!

Vicious Mossies!!

Mama rushed me to the PD when I woke up that morning with half an eye shut, the PD said it was some 'allergy reaction to the mosquito bite'. She gave me some oral medication and refused to give me any cream to apply despite Mama requesting for them. Mama was not convinced and decided to take me to good old Dr Hippo that evening. Dr Hippo gave us oral medication, application and some eye drops.

Saturday Playground: SYS Memorial Hall

2008-07-20T03:46:00.003+08:00

I've seen occasional post about afternoon weekend playgroups on parentpages before and have been meaning to make it to one.

Saturday Playgroup July 19 at 3:30pm

Hello Everyone,
I hope that this rain would go away tomorrow. If so, then we will meet at Big Tom ice cream shop at Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall. We will meet there sometime between 3:30pm to 4pm. There will not be an indoor alternative due to the crazy virus that is going around. Anyways..you can get there by MRT and get off at Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall. We can have some ice cream and feed the fish and turtles there. There are also grassy areas for ball and frisbee. Hope to see you there!!!

The rain did go away so Mama decided to take me there, she called Conrad's Mama and asked if they'll be interested in going too, we met up at 3.30pm and walked to the park. I wanted so badly to play with my new toy "Bubble Lawn Mower"!! And Mama would only let me play with it outdoors after the mess I've created indoors!

My bubble mower was a HIT! Everyone wanted a go at it but it wasn't working very well... where were the bubbles? Then Mama went to get me a bubble gun so I can play with the gun while the others played with my mower. Everyone ended up owning a bubble gun that day! :)

After the bubbles, we went to feed the fish and turtles, boy was that fun! Thanks Auntie Sherry for organizing and thank you Uncle Brian for the lovely pictures! The next playgroup will be at Uncle Brian's house, I can't wait to see my new friends!!

Art: Imprints

2008-07-20T03:45:00.000+08:00

My Taiwanese Papa

2008-07-14T03:03:00.001+08:00

Taipei Toy Fair

2008-07-14T03:02:00.002+08:00

Date Night

2008-07-14T03:02:00.001+08:00