Cutie Princesses @ Work

Zoo trips organised by Wecare

2010-08-30T17:18:00.004+08:00

I forgot to include the entry on our Zoo outing on the 08/08/10. It was organized by Wecare group by NTUC for single mums and their kids. Everything was sponsored by the group and periodically they have programs organized for us.

I can’t remember the last time we went for a group outing, it was nice; perhaps it’s due to our neighbour. She was the one who introduced me to this group and she was part of the committee.

We reached the gathering point at NTUC main building at One Raffles Boulevard at 9.30am for breakfast, and started the buses came at 10.30. We reached the Zoo at 11 and proceeded to the Rainforest Lodge for activities organized by the zoo (the activities consist of magic, dance & gigs performance).

The performances finished at 2pm and we had our lunches (lunch provided by Wecare) before it’s our free & easy time.

We took the tram rides (which are part of the package) and toured briefly the zoo. I brought the girls to Children Kingdom for water play. The girls have so much fun splashing and playing at the water playground that they refused to get change and return to the gathering point.

After much persuasion and coaxing, I finally get them to change and returned to the gathering point where we took the transportation home.

We are so exhausted from all the play that we dozed off in the bus. Even though we are totally burnt out by the time we reached home but we have an enjoyable Sunday at the Zoo…….

The Expendables

2010-08-30T17:03:00.001+08:00

This show I watched with Emmanuel on the 20/8/10, and it was our first movie date since we started dating on the 23/7/10.

Prior to the start of the movie, there will always be advertisement and trailer of new movies. I was frightened by the “Last Exorcism” trailer and screamed out and he has to comfort me. Thus he knows never to bring me watch horror movies in theater; instead he suggests we rent DVDs or watch online at home, an equally bad idea. I shall handle that situation when it arises.

This show is all about machine guns and bullets flying. I find it too loud and noisy due to the countless shooting, and too much bloodied scenes. All the men in the show are rather standardized, as in all are very muscular men and tough. A typical Rambo show…..

Overall I still enjoy other than the bloodied scenes……

Salt

2010-08-30T16:50:00.002+08:00

I watched this show with my classmate on the 10/08/10. It was supposed to be a lesson day for us but we skipped the class not because we are lazy but the lecturer is really lousy.

I strongly believe that Angelina Jolie suited action flick movie, especially spy themed the most. I guess it’s attributed to her cool look that makes her suitable for such role.

This show was about Evelyn identity crisis. Along her journey to ‘rescue’ her husband, she started to have recollections of her childhood training as a spy to infiltrate the US government to carry out “major” revolution for the Russian.

To put it simply, she’s a trained Russian spy who lost her memory but regained gradually. She was supposed to assassinate the Russian President but she did not instead she betrayed her “trainer” and wanted revenge for her husband.

I find this show interesting not too mind blogging and the actions were consistently and evenly spread throughout so audiences will sure stay focus thru….

Inception

2010-08-04T15:40:00.001+08:00

This show I watched with Ching last evening, it sure required a lot of focus. I think it’s killing my brain cells.

We are supposed to watch it last Wednesday, but the seats left were all in the front row so we changed to yesterday. Last week, I went to Ching’s convocation (27/07/10). After seeing it, I feel like graduating soon as well, but I’m aware I still have another 1 year to go. Just have to endure….

The show was really mind confusing. It’s a dream within a dream, so basically we are busy focusing on the different dream projections. Not a good idea for after work relaxation, especially I’ve used my focusing skill for the whole day….

Overall it’s nice to watch…..

Despicable Me

2010-08-04T15:39:00.001+08:00

I watched this show last Friday (30/07/10) with Lulu & Luisa. It was a very cute show. I liked it a lot, especially those “minions”. They are so adorable.

Prior to movie time, we have dinner & coffee at Noodle Place & StarBuck @ Centre Point. It was such a long time since I’ve meal with Luisa as she went to London for work for 1 month. It was a good opportunity to meet up and have a nice meal and movie of course.

The show was the perfect show for family and after work. It doesn’t require much thinking and you can just have a good laugh.

I was totally relaxed after the show…..

The Twilight Saga: Eclipse

2010-07-28T15:49:00.002+08:00

On the 05/07/10, I went to watch this much anticipated movie with Ron. It was a last minute decision to catch a movie or should I say it’s his way of keeping me accompany him.

I really don’t know what’s so ‘anticipative’ about this show. The show was all about kissing and its actions are pathetically little. I find the show boring.

I would rather download and watch it at my own time…..

Knight & Day

2010-07-28T15:47:00.001+08:00

So long never update, I’m just too busy, finally I’m free from exam and study but it’s only for this week. Next week my routine starts all over again. What a drag!

On the 03/07/10 (Saturday), Ching & I went to watch this show. It was nice but I find it too similar to the past romantic comedy such as Killer & Date Night.

Nevertheless, we still have a good laugh at the stupidity of their actions. If were to ask me whether is it value for money, I doubt so. Personally I think can download and watch it at your own leisure time. But Singaporeans seems to be movie-goers, our outing and dating seems to be movies.

I still enjoy not so much of the movie but the company of Ching……

Desert Flower (Book) & An eventful day

2010-06-28T15:52:00.003+08:00

I finished reading this book in the wee hour of Sunday morning. Saturday after lesson I met Huijun for dinner @ Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel. We went for the international buffet.

We are their “first” customer, as the buffet start at 6.30 but we reach there at 6pm. The buffet was sumptuous. There’s a lot of cuisine to choose from.

We stayed till 12am. It was a nice to eat & indulge in the atmosphere without worrying about food and drink. When it was time to foot the bill, I was shocked to see that the buffet costs $64.25 per person, and we are not entitled to any discount. We do not have any AMEX or M Hotel membership card.

Sadly, I passed my card to the manager. Suddenly, he came back and told us he’s giving us 50% membership discount but we have to pay cash as the membership’s name and my credit card name won’t tally.

We’re abit confused by the sudden turn of event, and asked him for more details. Apparently the manager gave us member’s discount out of goodwill. The membership fee costs $300, and we are grateful to the manager for his generosity. Huijun and I are contemplating whether to apply for the membership since we love eating buffet.

I was in total good mood when I reached home that I’ve difficulty falling asleep. Thus I decided to finish my book where I left off few days ago.

The book was about the transformation of this Somali model, named Waris Dirie. She’s from a nomad family in Africa. The hardships she experienced as a child just dwell on me that I’ve a blessed childhood.

At a tender age, she already tending to camels & cows and helping her mother to look after younger siblings. I’m definitely unable to do all these when I’m her age.

She also detailed the agony of female genital mutilation. It was horrid whenever I visualize the scene, and she’s only 5 years old back then.

In their culture, girls undergo circumcision is like entering womanhood, and considered “clean”, more “market value”. After the circumcision, urinating & later menstruating became a torture for her. The gypsy woman sewed “it” way too tight, till the “water” can only flow 1 drop at a time. It was later when she started becoming a model then she had a surgery to rectify the pain.

At the age of 13, her father had arranged a marriage for her to a much older man. She fled the arrangement. During the fleeing process, she almost got raped and had a few brushes with death encounter. She went to her sister, then from relatives to relatives seeking shelter and worked for them. Once she overheard her auntie’s conversation, and pleaded earnestly to allow her to work as a maid in London for one of her auntie.

She got her wish granted, and she went there. Throughout she worked as a slave for her auntie, till one day her uncle position as ambassador has ended and they are all going back to Somali, and she refused. Using her wits, she finally stayed in London alone. To survive, she started working as cleaner in MacDonald.

Later she was discovered by a renowned photographer, and as they say the rest is history. Gradually she embarked on her journey to become a supermodel. On the peak of her career, she quit to devout full time to charity work, especially in the area of female genital mutilation…..

It was a nice book worth reading. I just couldn’t put it down. While I’m enjoying my book, a guy sent a message to me. I was shocked when I read the content, it was very offensive and disrespect. We aren’t that close, more like acquaintances than friends, I find his message very rude.

I ignored him and guess what he message me again yesterday morning to apologize for his message. I told him off and asked him to show some respect to gal. I start to be very cautious of guys. They seems to have a motive… It's demoralising whenever I encounter this type of incident….

My Feudal Lord

2010-06-22T15:56:00.003+08:00

I finish reading this book yesterday. This book was about Tehmina’s bravery to publicize her ordeal living with her political husband.

I don’t really enjoy reading it, no doubt I pity her ordeal but there’s too much emphasis on political, which doesn’t interest me.

Even though I don’t like political story, but it does provide certain insight to the country political stability.

Eventually, she breaks away from the marriage and found new meaning to her life…..

Enough of Weirdos~~~

2010-06-21T16:24:00.001+08:00

Yesterday finally I got some well needed rest. I was so tired from the consecutive night out that I couldn’t take it.

After church, I went home and skipped my lunch, jumped straight to bed and napped. I felt rejuvenated from the nap, and decided to cook dinner. I’ve not cooked for very long….

I prepared all the ingredients and started cooking when my phone rang. I thought it was my mum, but it was Aaron. I was cautious. My experiences tell me that it’s never any good new whenever Aaron calls.

The moment I answered he started questioning me, and demanded to know if I’ve a boyfriend and I ever bring any guy to “his” flat…..

I scolded him and reminded him that he’s in no position to know my personal life. Whether I’m dating or not is none of his business, we are over and he can’t accuse me of anything.

I did tell him that I’m not dating but that doesn’t mean I won’t date in the future. I told him this will be the last time I will reveal my personal life to him, and asked him to always remember we are no longer related to each other…..

Saturday one weird guy, and yesterday another, I was really thinking are they sharing some kind of telepathy….Both of them must ruined my day. I started off fine but ended up frustrated….

One get unhappy over me busy meeting friends, another get upset over me going out with guys….I don’t know what is wrong with both of them and I’m not interested to know…I just need them to give me peace…..

Relaxation end up ruin~~~

2010-06-21T16:12:00.001+08:00

Saturday (19/06/2010), I meet Huijun again to dye hair in the evening. I was still tired from the previous day. I hardly catch sufficient sleep. I woke up early for my dental appointment.

We went to Far East Plaza (her regular hairstylist). The plan initially was to accompany her, as she wanted to do hair treatment. Later I was tempted to dye my hair, and I joined in as well.

The whole process was long. I was hungry and tired while waiting for it to finish. Later we went to TCC for dinner. I seem to encounter bad service whenever I’m with her. As usual, we always chat after our meal but never the staffs chase us out. Anyway if we see crowds, we will quickly finish our meal and off we go….

But that day no crowd and this waiter came to our table and asked us for any last order (the TCC opened 24 hours). When we said no, he cleared our glasses without asking. I was flabbergasted with this type of service, and feedback to the manager.

We went to Xin Wang @ ION feeling all frustrated from their service. We saw our secondary school classmate, and expectedly he ignored us. I suspected he has self-esteem problem.

There’s this young waiter who is very interesting. He served us our drinks, and suddenly told me he remembered me. To be polite, I said I remembered him too. I do have a vague impression of him. (We first came there last year, and Huijun keep finding our ex-classmate familiar so she asked this same young waiter to verify for us.)

So here we are again me & Huijun. He said he remembered my smile, I was taken aback and later asked Huijun whether I laughed too loud, that’s why he remembered.

Anyway out of courtesy, I asked him his name and age. He’s nice keeps reminding us if we need to order can tell him. Compared to TCC, this service is definitely much better.

We stayed till 1+am, and left for home. While on my way home, I remembered to reply Guolin’s msn (he sent the previous day).

Our conversation seems to side track a lot. He kind of made me regret replying him. I should have ignored. Honestly I was hesitant in replying initially, but on the account that we are classmates, I replied.

It will be better if our conversation be normal and not him asking me some weird question….Let our past be buried and not bring it up again…..

Excursion + Movie (The Karate Kid)

2010-06-21T15:09:00.001+08:00

Friday (18/06/2010), I took leave to spend some quality time with the girls. Naomi & Natasha’s childcare have organized an excursion to Jurong Birds Park. It has been ages since I last went there. I’ve included Dinah & Cora for the trip. I wanted it to be our time but I need an extra pair of hands to handle Natasha.

It was a good opportunity for me to recollect my childhood memory as well as to spend some joyous time with them.

It was raining quite heavily in the morning. I was still concerned about the trip. I was thinking that we might not see the birds at all, if it continues raining.

Thank god, it was all shine and bright when we reached the destination. We went to the amphitheater to see the birds performing various acts. Dinah & Naomi just watch in awe at the performance but Natasha was overwhelming excited and keeps volunteering her for the acts. Thank god, they never picked her since she’s too young….

After the performance, we have picnic lunch, and later we just explored the bird park by foot. Later we took the tram ride for an overview of the bird park. The last destination is the water play, the kids’ favorite.

It was while they are splashing the water and playing wildly, do I then get to rest a while. I find it more tiring then working. Working is mentally tiring but this is physically tiring.

They got to play for 45 min then changed and headed home. The aftermath was abit chaotic and I helped to look after some of the kids - too little adults and an overwhelming of kids.

Suddenly, I find myself looking after Naomi’s friends too, especially one of the boy. I find him quite poor thing, so lonely, so I keep him company and look after him…..

We are so exhausted that we all collapsed in the bus. Back home, I’ve to rush again, as I’m meeting Huijun for movie.

We went to Vivo City for dinner & movie. We watched the 11.45pm movie. We picked “Karate Kid”.

Both of us realized that Jackie Chan’s movie mostly is a fusion of East meets west and comedy action. Basically, it was about Jaden Smith moving to China with his mum. While in China, he offended a thug (school bullying), and coincidentally Jackie Chan saved him from one of the bullying.

While trying to help Jaden Smith to settle the dispute with the thugs, it ended up with Jaden Smith joining the Kung Fu competition.

So Jackie Chan faced with an uphill task of training Jaden Smith for the competition. Quite a hilarious movie that we enjoy….

By the time I reached home, I was dead beat, really drained off all my energy….

Toy Story 3

2010-06-21T14:59:00.003+08:00

Last Thursday (17/06/2010), I brought the girls to see Toy Story 3. It was actually an event for single mother provided by Wecare, thus all the tickets were free, it was like a support organization to single mother. All this I’ve to give thank to my neighbor, as she’s the one who introduce me (she’s actually volunteering for Wecare).

We started for in haste, and I was fuming mad with Cora, as she failed to follow simple instruction. So before we got to watch the movie, I was already in a foul mood.

But thank god, the movie was jovial and lightened the fuming mood of mine. Even if one never watch the part 1 & 2 of Toy Story, will be able to catch the plot, as it’s unrelated.

The story was all about toys rescuing their friends from evil toys. Basically everything is all about toys….

Most importantly, the girls enjoy the movie alot, as it touched on something that all kids love the most - TOY....They are so excited over the show till they forgot all their hunger (we have not taken our dinner). For me, it's simmply tiredness that made me forget my hunger....

Still I enjoy the movie, as I can just laid back & relax the movie…A very good after work relaxation movie….

Killers

2010-06-16T14:59:00.001+08:00

Ching and I watched this show yesterday evening at 7.10pm. I feel so long never watch movie. Lately not many shows capture my attention.

This movie was average and I find the plot boring. I will say lack of creativity. It’s similar to Mr & Mrs Smith except that it has an added sense of humor.

Due to it’s lacked of storyline, that’s why it’s a good de-stress movie after work…..

Dinah's Birthday

2010-06-11T14:26:00.000+08:00

Last Thursday (03/06/2010) was Dinah’s 8th birthday. I took leave to spend time with her only. I brought her to Pasir Ris. It was our first time taking the Circle Line since it opened few months ago.

The journey was indeed shortened a lot. We reached there quite fast but we are lost at the park. I should have asked what bus to take to get to Downtown East iso Pasir Ris Park, as the bus is different.

So we ended up taking the wrong bus & ended up at the other end of Downtown East. Under the scorching sun, feeling the heat & hunger, we walked for a long distance to get to Downtown East.

When we reached there, we are so hungry that we ate a lot. After meal, we headed to E Hub for shopping Dinah’s present & (Xplorer Kidz) where she played for 1 hour, and then we went cycling for another hour.

I’ve never feel more ‘rejuvenate’ after all these activities. We were perspiring like mad. We ended the day by visiting my mum and rushed home for Dinah’s ballet class at night.

It was a happening day so full of activities and I’m glad Dinah enjoys her birthday…

Irritating~~~

2010-05-31T02:07:00.001+08:00

I strongly believe Aaron daily goal is to think of different means to make my life difficult. Last Wednesday, my lawyer attends a court session on my behalf as Aaron has sought clarification of the court order.

Apparently during one of our much mediation we did discuss about the renovation loan but it was never firmly concluded and definitely not included in the order. So technically speaking, there’s nothing Aaron can do about it other than varying the order.

Learn from my lawyer that Aaron intends to vary the order. Now my wish is to regain slight normalcy in my life. I’m tired of Aaron’s childish and selfish way....why can’t he move on his life!!!

I’ve enough of my own problem and I’m grateful if Aaron doesn’t add onto my problem.....

Collection of papers....

2010-05-18T15:32:00.000+08:00

This afternoon I went to Legal Aid to collect my interim judgment, making interim judgment final and order of court.

I’ve a mixture of feeling when I was handed the official documents. Part of me feels glad that finally a chapter closed but part of me feels sad that I can’t salvage my marriage. Till now I still blamed Aaron for not cherishing our marriage, yet I know blaming him will not alter the fact that we are divorced.

Last year at this time, I was still contemplating whether divorce was the solution for me and now I’ve made the choice.

I used to think that Aaron will be my other half. To see my belief fallen apart is sad for me but our differences are just getting wider and wider that I find it harder and harder to bridge it. I find suffocating and stiffening staying with him.

I just pray that Aaron and I will be able to maintain a cordial relationship for the sake of the children… I pray that Aaron will be released from his emotional bondages and grow up to be a mature, responsible, independent and considerate father and person…..

Sickness & Worries~~~

2010-05-17T11:48:00.003+08:00

On Thursday (13/5/10), I forced myself to work despite I’m feeling very unwell. But I work less than an hour later, I became weaker and fever started climbing higher.

Feeling worse, I gave up and went to see a doctor. I was given sick leave for Thursday and Friday. I felt so bad to break the new to my manager as I’ve been unwell for the past few days.

Conclusion is that this month is really a sick month for me. My immune system has been working against me.

=====================================================================================

Friday when I was the sickest, Aaron came home. I was visibly taken aback. I felt like questioning him but too weak. His presence really makes my illness worse. I wonder what his motive is. Perhaps he’s trying to make one last attempt in persuading me but too prideful to do so (divorce paper is out & I can collect tomorrow).

Whatever his reason, I will not change my decision….Our marriage is over and he has to face it.

Saturday the moment he woke up, he disrupted my peaceful nap. I was so drowsy when I heard him shouting. I quickly thought of Dinah and Naomi. True to my fear, they were hiding in the bathroom. I hold them close and bring them back to the room. While passing him, he started scolding Dinah. I was so mad, I wanted to scream at him but my bad voice doesn’t allow.

Once in the room, I called his mother, and demanded that she better get Aaron out of my flat, else I’m going to force him out of here. (I intended to call the police for help.)

Thank goodness, she manages to get Aaron to leave my flat. I tell her that this shall be the last time I ever want to see him up in my flat.

I understand Aaron still can’t let goes of the marriage but my feeling for him has turned into disgust and fear. Disgusted by his apparent lack of responsibility and fearful of his unpredictable behaviors, which leave me very cautious when dealing with him.

To me he’s like a ticking bomb ready to explode anytime and I fear the worst for my daughters. I’ve no idea what he might do to them and whether he will ever carry out his threat…

I hope time will get him to move on his life and let goes of our failed marriage……

Iron Man 2

2010-05-13T20:12:00.002+08:00

I watched this show on 01/05/10 (Sat) with Lulu and Luisa. It was such a hot movie that I’ve to book in advance on Tuesday then we are able to get good seats.

Quite an action show that is interesting but I did not understand part of it as I did not watch Iron Man Part 1. I rented it later on....

A show worth watching and I believe there will be part 3.....

Greatest Decision....

2010-05-06T17:39:00.000+08:00

I’ve made a decision which will always be embedded in my memory for as long as I live. I wonder if this decision will affect my view or path down the road but I’m looking to the Lord for guidance.

It’s a decision that I’ve never want to take given a choice. I don’t know if I will regret in the future or should I say the future holds a lot of uncertainty to me… I can only pray that God can calm our greatest fear….

I hope time will heal…

True Color~~~

2010-04-27T15:23:00.004+08:00

I wonder why it is so hard to be sincere with friends. Why must friends lie to one another?

I always believe the basic underlying in friendship is sincerity and honesty, but Alex proved my belief wrong.

I used to trust in his character but not anymore. He’s the best to think he can hide his relationship for so long and at the same time keep asking me to introduce gals to him. Thank god, I never or else my conscience will always bug at me. Come to think of it, he’s worse than my ex-boyfriend as he even told me how nasty it is to hide a relationship, and yet he’s doing that. What a lousy character! When you criticize others, please check if you are one of those. If you are, then you are not in the position to criticize.

I don’t know his reason for lying to people neither do I care but I sympathizes his girlfriend who is in China. As a lady’s perspective, I would be very upset & disappointed if my boyfriend chooses not to reveal our relationship and even claim he is single. How nasty!

Hiding for almost 2 years, keep saying you are single and keep flirting with gals is horrible. It’s not being faithful to your girlfriend and show how lousy a person character is. I simply hate this type of guy. They can never be my ‘clicks’ as I will always look at them with disdainful eyes perhaps just acquaintances. Like I always say look is not the whole beauty, good character makes it whole but if the character sucks then the person is totally ugly. No physically attractiveness + no character = ugly.

It takes me so long to see his true color……Better late than never.....

Poor Dinah

2010-04-26T14:32:00.000+08:00

Sunday (25/04/10), Dinah told me that she cried last night. The cause of her sadness – Aaron.

Saturday I’ve lesson thus their grandfather brought them to their place (as usual). Everything went smoothly and enjoyable but their grandfather has to leave for work in the evening so Aaron get the task of sending them home at night.

While in the lift, Dinah accidentally touched him, and he started complaining to his mother (who is accompanying them) right in front of Dinah. She was very upset by this incident. Obviously anyone will be upset, let alone a kid….

I felt so sorry for Dinah when I heard it, and asked his mother for the full detail. She said she has told Aaron not to vent his frustration on Dinah as she is innocent. Whatever happens is between me & him, the children are innocent. She also felt sorry for her and comforted her, but I know the words aren’t entering his head…

The more Aaron does that, my impression of him get worse. Here I am trying to maintain cordial relationship with him, and there he is venting frustration on kid, what a man he is… He should go & pick on someone his own size, fancy bullying a kid, what a loser….

I strongly doubt his mentality. A person is constantly moving forward while he’s moving backward. Perhaps he’s really suffering from senile. OMG at his age…

Really feel like telling him go & be productive & stop being a bug to everyone’s lives….

Durian Fondue with Ching....

2010-04-26T14:20:00.000+08:00

Saturday (24/04/10), I went to Jurong Point to meet Ching after lesson in the late afternoon.

We have meal at Lai Lai and shopped around (mainly me) trying out some chest “tightening” dresses that almost suffocate me at Yatch 21.

There was some show going on and we are amazed by how they can turn the connecting bridge into a fashion walkway, but I sympathizes the models having to walk so much….

Oh the models are really thin and tall, they are depriving the enjoyment of life (eating)….

After a brief shopping, we went to try out the durian fondue which wasn’t that fantastic but we still finished and we stayed there till the shop closed….

Nothing much but at least we catch up….

Cafe of thought...

2010-04-23T11:47:00.000+08:00

Last night after work, I and my colleagues went to TCC at Raffles place. I quite like the ambience. It was soothing and relaxing, a perfect place for chill out after a hectic day of work.

It was really enjoyable talking crap and stuffs with an all girls group. It’s not a frequent outing since each of us has our own business e.g. studying, other friends, spouse etc. But it’s still nice to have gathering as and when.

But it gives me the thought of researching what I really want to do during my extra time. My life can’t be always revolving around the girls, work and studying. Even though I have friends but most of them have their partner or activities to occupy them, I need to be more self-reliant.

Therefore I have to start to think deeper into that area, perhaps do something meaningful, which is something I feel more enriching to me…

New Beginning~~

2010-04-22T19:11:00.003+08:00

Last night, I've an open talk with my boyfriend. We both agree that we are not compatible for each other & we are better being friends. Son we break up...

Actually for quite sometime my instinct has already warned me that our relationship is not right.

I just can't pinpoint where isn't right. I'm waiting for a chance to talk to him but he keeps avoiding me.

Finally last night he decided to break the ice & talked to me. When he says he has thing to talk to me, I know what is it regarding.

I feel better after we talk but I find his reason for breaking irresponsible.

He said he can't accept my divorce status & I've 3 kids, which I find not very gentleman.

He knows my status when he befriends me & court me.

To cut the story short, he doesn't know what he wants. He's liked a fisherman casting his net, trying to catch many fishes.

After catching all the fishes, he starts to select his catch. Depsite I'm disgusted by his insincerity and dishonesty but I feel so much burden free and delighted (surprisingly).

Conclusion he's immature & unsuitable for me....

Date Night

2010-04-20T17:27:00.001+08:00

On 17/04/10 (Sat), I watched this movie with Alex. The show was hilarious and a good way to de-stress.

It was about a married couple, their lives revolving about their kids and everything else fell into routine. Even their weekly date night became a routine. They came to realize the monotonous routine of their married life when their best friends decided to get divorce.

Therefore in order to reignite their passion, they decided to head out to Manhattan for a romantic dinner. When they reached the famous restaurant, it was fully reserved and they couldn’t get a table.

They decided to take someone else table instead, but this mistake will bring them an adventure they will never forget.

From an ordinary married couple, they suddenly found themselves in a life threatening situation. Their corporation brought them out of danger and at the same time it brought them closer than before. They learned to cherish each other more than ever.

It’s a romantic comedy but with meanings attached to it…..

Need a break!!!

2010-04-17T02:06:00.002+08:00

16/4/10 (Friday), I went down to court hopefully for the last time which I doubt so. On the 12/03/10 (Friday), we actually have agreed on the terms of the divorce and an order has been recorded.

After all the order has been recorded and done with, Aaron decided to change his mind and wanted to insert new terms into the order resulting in a delay in the extraction of the court order, thus resulted in 16/04/10 mediation.

On the 15/04/10, Aaron called to persuade me to reconcile which I have made it clear to him that I will not change my mind. Upon hearing this, he became agitated and I knew he will make life difficult for me. He threatens to bring the case for hearing.

I need not be clairvoyance but I surely know his character well enough. And true to my expectation, he not only wanted me to take over the renovation loan but he wanted to change the children’s access, flat issues and his credit cards debts. But I’ve checked with my lawyer and she has already advised me that he can’t change the order let alone bring the case for hearing. The case has been considered resolved on the 12/03/10, thus today purpose is to see if I agreed to take over the renovation loan. If I refused, there’s nothing he can do and my lawyer can still extract the order even without his lawyer signature. To summarise, the mediation is to get the judge approval to extract order without their signatures.

Aaron was furious when he knew that he can’t have his ways and he vowed to vary the order. I know what’s entailing me but I can’t stop him either. What a frustrating feeling!

In the late afternoon after the mediation, Aaron called and demanded me to return some money which he used to buy Naomi’s milk powder. I never expect him to start creating trouble for me so fast and we have an argument. Seriously, Aaron is the only person capable of bringing the worst mood out of me. Already my mood wasn’t that good despite knowing that I can get the order soon but going to court is really a terrifying experience for me and can be emotionally draining. Court will be the last place I ever wanted to step in again... Most importantly, I hope my case with Aaron can have a closing once and for all....

Feeling the emotional drainage, I’m dealt with another frustrating matter. My boyfriend knowing that I’ve attended court and feeling the heat chose to meet his pre-arranged friends instead of me. If not for my friends accompanying me, I will be backed home alone (they have brought the girls to their place so no dinner for me). I’m blessed to have friends who showed me so much concern. They knew that my mood will be affected and they treated me for a meal and kept me company.

The sad part is my friends showed me more concern than my boyfriend. My friends’ advice is that something fishy is about this boyfriend of mine. I too can feel it but I can’t find the right words to describe it. I believe it’s either he’s not serious and committed or he simply treats me as a substitute for his friends...

His apparent lack of concern is really inexcusable and I start to drag playing minds games with him. I decided to take a break from this relationship. If he can’t share my burden at least don’t add on to my existing burden. I believe that God will have the right one for me. I want a guy who can show me concern and treat me really like his girlfriend......

Growing up years...

2010-04-09T00:16:00.001+08:00

As the girls get older, so does my challenges, especially Natasha. Indeed every child is unique and I can see it from all my girls.

Dinah is responsible but short attention span and inconsistent. To motivate her to work harder will be to give her responsible role such as group leader, only then will she achieves her standard.

Naomi is sensible but sensitive. I have no worries when it comes to her school works and she always receive a lot of praises from teachers. In a way, she’s the perfect child that every parent can wish for. She will take her own initiative to do her work and capable of producing neat work. The only thing that I have to take note will be sensitivity. She’s quite sensitive and get hurt very easily. Delicate to speak, so I have to exercise some caution in my words.

Natasha sure can gives me the most problem. Her teachers have called me several times telling me how stubborn she can be, especially her refusal to do her works. Apparently I have to be stricter to her. Her grandfather really spoils her to the extent I’m worried that she might thought the world revolve around her only. I definitely don’t want a repetition of Aaron.

Nevertheless each of them has brought me immense joy beyond words and I can’t describe how precious they are to me.....I can only pray that the Lord will guide and keep their path right....

Stressful periods!!!

2010-04-09T00:06:00.000+08:00

I think I make a rush decision in dating my boyfriend. I start to wonder if we are progressing too fast. Perhaps we need to think thoroughly. I don’t know about him but I definitely needed that.

A woman’s intuition never fails. I feel insecure in this relationship and in return I don’t feel the need to put in effort to understand or even make this relationship better. My perspective is just continued and sees where it leads. But inner most, I’m prepared for the break-up. I don’t know how to express but I’m aware that this relationship won’t last.

Now my priority is not this relationship but rather my case. I hate the uncertainty and the continuous guessing of the outcome for my case. I pray for the best but at the same time I must prepare for the worst. Contradicting isn’t it?

This case weighs heavily in me and as long as it remains unresolved I won’t have any mood for relationship. This case is really eating up on me. Nevertheless I will not let my personal problem affects my work and children. Easier says than done but I will work towards it with my very best....

2010-04-08T16:16:00.001+08:00

On the 02/04/10 (Fri), I watched this movie with my boyfriend. It was actually a remake of the 1981 films under the same title.

I almost forgot to book the tickets for the 3D film, fortunately I remembered 2 days prior to it, and else we might have to catch the 2D film already.

The show focused on how Peruses discovered his real identity and his road to revenge for his adoptive parents who was killed by Hades.

Peruses was actually a demigod but he didn’t know of it till later when he sought revenge for his adoptive parents.

The show was filled with action but I liked most would be the scene of the slaying of Medusas. I find Medusas a very mystical creature but the origin a bit too confusing. Some say she’s born like this while others say she’s once a very beautiful lady being cursed and turned into like this. Either way I still find her mystifying.

The only thing I find can be improved will the slaying of the Kraken. It was too easy and fast not much action involved. I find the process more exciting than the actual slaying. Apparently the Kraken supposed to be the most invincible in the world without any emotion too, but it was killed so easily. What a drag!!!

2010-04-08T16:15:00.002+08:00

This movie I watched on the 27/3/10 (Sat) with my boyfriend. It was a romantic comedy film. Great for a good laugh….

That day was actually Naomi’s birthday. If we follow our yearly culture, it should be time alone with the birthday girl, but this year unfortunately her birthday coincides with a Saturday. Naomi and her grandmother (Aaron’s mother) share the same birthday so naturally they would want to celebrate together, but now me and Aaron still have some unsettled business going on, thus it’s a bit awkward if I join them.

So for this year I made the exception and celebrated with Naomi on Sunday instead. At that time my boyfriend is still wooing me, therefore he volunteer to accompany me since I’m not joining them.

Since we have nothing to do, we decided to catch a show, and we settled on comedy show, something more light-hearted.

The show was about a lady attending her sister’s wedding in Rome. She got drunk and started messing in the pool of love. Mischievously, she picked up 5 coins from the pool of love, and thus attracted the person who threw those coins.

So the story goes, all the 5 men, pursued her strongly with a lot if hilarious scenes along the way, and she found her true love eventually.

I like the middle scenes the most, as it’s very hilarious. I keep laughing non-stop….. No regret for watching it……

The Terracotta Army

2010-04-08T15:48:00.000+08:00

I finished reading this book early last month but I forgot to update it. This book is all about the creation of the terracotta army by the first emperor of China.

It’s started with a summarized history of the first emperor of China, the warring state and how he unifies China.

The middle section touched on his enthronement and his ambitious of building a never before grand tomb which he wanted to rule China even after death.

It provided some statistical data about the tomb and close estimation on the layout and possible numbers of pits. As the book progress it tells how the pits were discovered in the 1970s by a group of farmers, and slowly to the hands of the archeologists.

When the archeologists arrived at the site and started digging, they discovered a grand scale of the site and till to date they are still discovering the tomb, except the emperor tomb. Despite the curiosity of exploring the look and actual tomb of the first emperor of China (no one knows for sure the actual look of the emperor), they never attempted to dig further due to Chinese culture of respecting the dead. Perhaps in the future we might know more about the famous emperor of China but for now this remains a mystery.

Towards the end of the book, it mainly focuses on the finding of the terracotta army, the grand scale of it and the original look of it, they also talked about the restoration of the army and the rest.

Overall I would find that it’s an interesting fact and provide certain insight into the creation of the tomb.

Alice in the Wonderland

2010-03-16T15:21:00.002+08:00

10/3/10 (Wed) – I went to watch Alice in the Wonderland with my classmate. Actually I don’t think I catch his name, thus I better leave it as it is. I feel so awkward to ask him. I never thought of calling him and also I did not expect him to call me, let alone ask me out.

It’s weird…..Anyway he called me after our revision class on the 9/3/10 (Tue). Initially I thought it was about school work, but he ended up asking if I’m mad with him. I was puzzled.

Out of the blue, this guy called me to ask me if I’m mad with him. In the end, misunderstanding was cleared, and so he asked me out for lunch the next day. I agreed. During lunch time, while trying to think of a conversation, I thought of asking about the movie he watches. It never fails to start the ball rolling, since it’s our favorite pastimes.

I told him I actually wanted to watch this show with my friends but they have already watched with their loved ones. I merely say and he invited me to watch that evening. I agreed since I also want to watch it.

The show was quite nice perhaps there’s Johnny Depp. He’s acting as the mad hatter. It’s about Alice saving the kingdom of Wonderland from the red queen.

I appreciate Johnny Depp’s acting, for he’s versatile, acting in all sorts of character……

Of course, I also appreciate this classmate of mine who accompanied me. I actually don’t know if he likes it. Hopefully he likes it…….

Happy Go Lucky

2010-03-10T16:52:00.001+08:00

5/3/10 (Fri), I went to watch this show with Aaron. Somehow I guessed he liked to choose to watch movie on Friday. What a bad timing! I guessed he’s trying to appease me.

Nevertheless, I went along. The show was about Fann Wong being disliked by his gambling father and unreasonable sister.

Her father believed she was born to be a jinx to the family, and disliked her. He spent every penny he owned gambling.

One day he won the first prize in lottery and he spent all his fortunes in gambling and womanizing in the end his business gone and he was penniless.

He did not see his folly instead he went to Cambodia with his elder daughter and gamble again.

They lost everything they owned, and it was Fann who came to their rescue……

The Wolfman

2010-03-10T16:43:00.001+08:00

26/2/10 (Fri) I went to watch “The Wolfman” with Aaron. Despite my tiredness, I still went. Every Friday is my most tiring day, as I’ve to fetch Dinah home, and then rush to have a quick meal before bringing her for swimming lesson.

While she’s having her lesson, I will swim a few laps myself and that’s explained why I’m so tired.

Honestly the show wasn’t my cup of tea, and given a choice I will never watch such a violent show. I’ve never liked horror and violent show, but to accompany him, I accepted.

Throughout the entire show, I’m hiding or covering my eyes. I dared not to even take a peek and worst I almost ran out of the theatre midway. I struggled to stay rooted to my seat and the end result was I almost vomited out the popcorn I’ve just consumed.

As the title has implied, it’s about werewolf, a deadly curse descended upon Lawrence while he was investigating the death of his younger brother. He retraced his brother tracks, and came upon a gypsy’s village, while there all of a sudden it was attacked by a werewolf (which was actually his father).

Lawrence gave chase and was bitten by the werewolf. He was healed but the side-effect was he will turn into a werewolf on every full moon.

He was locked up in the mental institution and while there his father revealed the truth to him (the death of his brother and mother), and he vowed revenge.

Later while his psychiatric tried to prove his theory of werewolf is all illusion, thus he exposed him to the full moon and he turned savage and killed the doctor.

He escaped and returned for revenge. He managed to kill his father……..

Percy Jackson and The Lighting Thief

2010-02-26T15:18:00.002+08:00

24/02/10 I went to watch movie with my colleagues. We watched – Percy Jackson and the Lighting Thief.

Finally I get to watch what I wanted. After work, we went Cineleisure and bought the tickets.

I sympathized whoever sit next to me, as I’m very timid so I get frightened easily and I will grab whoever sit next to me.

I would say I grabbed my friend’s hand most of the time, from the beginning till almost the end of the show.

There were too many mystic creatures liked Medusa, Minotaur etc. The show was exciting but too scary for me.

It was about Percy being framed as the lighting thief. Percy did not know that he’s a demigod till creatures started coming after him for the lighting bolt.

In order to save him, his mother and best friend cum protector tried to bring him to Camp – half blood.

On the journey, a Minotaur chased them. They have actually reached the camp but because of the defenses blocking his mother from it, the Minotaur captured it and made her disappeared. Enraged, Percy killed it with its horn.

In the camp, Percy came to know the truth about his parentage and his power. While in the camp, Hades appeared and demanded for the lighting bolt else his mother will remain forever in the hell.

Despite objection from the camp leader, he sneaked out with his best friend and another female demigod. With Luke’s information and map, they were on their way to hell to rescue Percy’s mother.

In order to get to hell, they need to get 3 pearls and each pearl was kept at different location.

The first location, they encountered Medusa. They managed to decapitate it and kept and the head.

The second location, they encountered the Hyde. They made use of Medusa’s head that they have kept and turned it into stone.

The last location was at a Las Vegas casino. At there, they were addicted to the lotus snack that was addictive and caused hallucinations.

Finally they headed to hell, and rescued Percy’s mother. Also they found out who’s the lighting thief.

They managed to get to the entrance of the Olympus, but were stopped by Luke (the lighting thief).

In the end, Percy managed to return the lighting bolt to Zeus and peace at last…..

It was a peaceful ending but not my friend who ended up with bruised hand due to my grabbing……

2010-02-26T14:59:00.001+08:00

This year Lunar New Year coincides with Valentines Day.

This year I did not follow my usual routine of visiting my grandmother first instead I went for church service.

Morning we went for the 1st service, and then we went for lunch. Most restaurants aren’t opened as expected. We finally settled for the only Chinese restaurants opened in Suntec, but it was a very long wait even for the menu.

Next we proceeded to Aaron’s maternal uncle for gathering. Finally we went to Aaron’s grandmother (paternal) place for gathering.

Our way of celebrating Valentines Day is watching movie. I wanted to watch Percy Jackson and the lighting thief but ticket was sold out and most movies were either selling fast or sold out, thus we settled on Little Big Soldiers.

It was supposed to be a comedy film but I don’t find so. The ending was unexpected and the actions were so-so.

The backdrop was set during the Warring Period where minor states were vying for bigger piece of lands.

It’s about an ordinary soldier (Jackie Chan) saving an enemy general (Wang Lee Hom). His intention was to capture him alive so that he can claimed reward and be exempted from serving in the army. He did not know that the “general” he captured was actually a crown prince and the crown prince’s younger brother was eyeing to kill him and be the future ruler of their state.

Along their journey, they encountered bandits and trapped. Eventually Jackie Chan freed the “general”.

It ended with Jackie Chan being killed by invading troops upon reaching his homeland.

After the show, we headed home exhausted. The next few days of the New Year we have been visiting relatives and ate non-stop. I hardly get to rest at home. What a waste of such a long weekend…..

The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus

2010-02-26T14:58:00.002+08:00

I’m so busy that I almost forget about updating my blog. On 06/02/10, I went to my mum’s place for lunch and also for her birthday celebration.

In the afternoon I met up with Ching, and we went to catch the show – The imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus in the evening. Prior to the show, we shopped around Somerset new malls and went to TCC for tea.

I presumed Singaporean entertainment is limited to movies. Our main purpose of wanting to watch this movie is due to Johnny Depp, but disappointed as his scenes were very limited and we are confused with too many versions of “Tony”.

The show was about a bet between the devil and Parnassus centuries ago. Parnassus won and he gained immortality but he still aged. Later he fell in love with a young lady thus he trade with the devil. The condition the devil made for regaining his youth is that any child Parnassus fathered will be his when the child turns 16.

Eventually Parnassus did have a child, and they made another bet to see who can win 5 souls first and his daughter’s soul will be spared.

It ended with Parnassus won and his daughter was spared. The main lead was supposed to be played by Heath Ledger but he died one-third of the production, thus Johnny Depp, Colin Farell and Jude Law played different versions of Tony.

Tony was saved by Parnassus’s daughter – Valentina. He was actually a scammer but he faked memory loss and remained with them.

Eventually he was the 5th souls that Parnassus needs to save Valentina. I would say the show was very confusing. If not for Johnny Depp, I wouldn’t watch it in the first place. I managed to understand the plot through Wikipedia. I treat it as a tribute to Heath Ledger….

The Vampire's Asst

2010-01-22T13:37:00.002+08:00

Wednesday (20/01/10), I went to watch this movie with Aaron. I would consider this to be our “1st” date. Prior to this I went down to suspense the divorce proceeding.

Thank to Pauline (our church counselor), she has opened new windows to my perspective, thus I decided to give our marriage one last shot.

I guessed the letter I wrote to Aaron help in some way, as our dating went smoothly and more natural too. Of course there are still many issues we have to settle but at least when we go dating we look more like a couple. Best of all I can see Aaron putting in effort to improve our relationship such as initiating buying of gifts to my parents for the upcoming Chinese New Year and driving me and the girls to school and work.

I pray that with counseling with our pastor will improve our communication and eventually solve the root cause of our problem.

Back to the movie, after we settle the divorce issue, we went to Orchard for meal and movie. For once during our marriage, I felt re-new passion in our relationship, same kind of feeling I get when we date initially…..

As for the movie, I can only summarize as very teenage style. I guessed their targeted audience was meant to be youth.

The show was about a college boy becoming half vampire to save his best friend. His friend believed that he “stole” his dream of becoming a vampire and wanted to revenge.

His friend did eventually become a vampire but it’s with the help from the wrong side and their misunderstanding became deeper….

The ending was incomplete and it seems to have a continuation. But like my friends said it’s not the movie but the person whom I’m watching with….. I guessed that’s true. Even though the movie wasn’t that nice but I still enjoyed myself……

A memoir of Iran

2010-01-19T15:48:00.002+08:00

I finished reading this book yesterday. Its provide insight into the revolution and culture of Iran, but too many war and I’m not a war keen person, so the book hardly capture my attention.

I was expecting it to be more cultural and not so war based and it did not answer a lot of my doubts like the woman’s right.

The first few chapters already fail to capture my attention but I finished still. I also find the plot confusing. I’m totally confused as I read. The chapter doesn’t flow……

Future sake

2010-01-15T13:38:00.002+08:00

Dinah is now Primary 2 and her workload just get heavier. On top of her heavy workload, she’s still thinking of taking up swimming lesson. I’m not in favor of it but she’s insistent.

Currently she’s taking ballet every Thursday night and Kumon every Saturday morning. If she’s to take up swimming, which will be every Friday night, and Friday is her longest hours in school (10.45am to 6.30pm).

Nowadays children sure are busier than the parents. Even though MOE scrape streaming for P4 students, but the school themselves are “streaming” in their own ways.

For Dinah’s school, every end of the year they will base on their results and group them in class accordingly, meaning every year they are changing classes’ base on you result. Those in B & F class are considered the best, and not only the weak students get supplementary lessons, all of them get it. They push students to their potential and I wonder if the students will get over stress.

Fortunately I’ve set down our house rule firm and all of them know that they have to finish their works, revisions or spelling before they’re allow playing. I also cultivate the habit of reading in them, but this is easier as they often see me reading too, so influence by me. Ultimately it's best to start from young and you get to reap the result faster. It’s not easy but it’s definitely worth the hard work....

Yr 1 Sem 2 result

2010-01-15T13:36:00.000+08:00

Wednesday (13/01/10), I received my result slip for my year 1 semester 2. I have As for Law and Accounting but a B for Microeconomic. I was satisfied with my result especially econ, as I have expected it to be worse than B.

I’m really not flair in econ; nevertheless I will try my best for the upcoming Macroeconomics. I believe the foundation must be built firm so that I’m better equipped for year 2.

With these results, at least I feel more confident to tackle my future exams but not over-confidence that I started to treat subsequent exam lightly.

Must study hard and study smart!

Yesterday I took a look at the past year papers for my year 2 & 3 modules. More essays I have to write and all is 100 marks question. It provides an insight to me and I’m more or less mentally prepare for it.

I believe a person can attain their goal if they believe and trust in themselves, and that’s what I’m going to believe in…

Summary of events

2010-01-13T15:10:00.005+08:00

So long never update my blog, life has been hectic for me as Cora went back to her home country for a holiday. She came back on the 09 January 2010 and she left on the 24 December 2009.

Everyday I was busy juggling with the housework, the girls’ routines, work and study. Those days that I’m studying, my mum will help me to look after the girls.

Thank god, end of December was marked with few long weekend, thus I’m able to rejuvenate myself.

Even though, I was busy with all these mundane chores but I managed to find time to read book and catch up with my friends.

I finished reading this book called – Out of the Dark on the 26 December 2009. It was a biography of Linda Caine and Robin Royston. Linda is the main character and Robin is her doctor-in-charge.

It revealed about her inner turmoil and the dark secret she has chosen to forget. Linda has everything a woman ask for, a loving husband, 2 wonderful children and she needs not worry about financial as her husband is a solicitor. Thing look bright to her but deep inside her, she is suffering from darkness. Inside her it seems like darkness is plaguing her world.

Eventually she broke down and her road to recovery was maimed by her “forgotten” memory. When she eventually recalled her memory, she sank further into her world. After peddling through the mud, she came out to reveal her story to the world on her road to recovery.

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On the 03 January 2010, I met up with Huijun at Orchard to pass her Christmas present. We shopped around before settling down at café to have light meal. I brought along Natasha as my parents-in-law couldn’t handle her. She can be mischievous at time.

The only regret was I have to leave right after dinner to rush home to fetch Dinah and Naomi, as my mother-in-law was attending a wedding dinner that night.

But at least I get to unwind and catch up with her for a short while.

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On the 10 January 2010, I and Ching went to watch Avatar (3D) at Singapore Discovery Centre. I enjoyed watching that movie, but I hated wearing the 3D glasses. It gave me headache. The show was set at 2154 in another planet called Pandora.

A group of profit making human was trying to exploit the ecosystem, and the vast raw material they are eyeing are situated at the base of the Navi’s (humanoid) home.

As human is unable to breathe the air in Pandora, thus they created avatar. It’s a mixture of human DNA with the Navi’s DNA. The body was lifeless by itself. To create life to the avatar is to use the owner’s brain activity controlled by computer, thereby eliminate actual human involvement.

Jack Scully a paraplegic was involved in this project after his identical twin was murdered, as they need similar DNA to activate his twin brother’s avatar. He was roped further into the project when they realized the Navi trusted him and enrobed him into their clan.

His initial aim is to find way to persuade the Navi to move their home or find their weaknesses but gradually he fell in love with Netriyi, their clan princess and they mated.

In the end, he chose to defend the Navi and abandoned human kind. He won the fight against his kind and with the help of Netriyi’s mother; his soul was transferred to the avatar forever.

After the show, we went to Jurong Point for dinner and shopping. But I guessed we spent mostly at the café listening to her trip at China. It was an eye-opener. I guessed we are culturally, hygienically and language ally unused to them. We did not stay for long and left since we all have to work and study the next day………

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Naomi & Natasha's Concert

2009-12-14T15:08:00.000+08:00

Saturday (12/12/09), Naomi and Natasha have their annually concert. As usual, the location and timing remain the same. The only difference was their dance.

It’s always sweet to see all these children put up a marvelous show for the audience. Despite the younger children having their limitations, they still put on a very cute show.

Naomi danced the barefoot girl, which she did not enjoy at all. She has hoped to dance Tarzan and Jane, instead her teacher has placed her differently. On the stage, I can see her obvious disappointment, but she still did her best in dancing, which I’m very proud of her.

Natasha danced the Nobody, which was a Korean hip song. She’s a bit stiff perhaps overwhelmed by the audiences. It took a lot of courage to perform in front of so many people.

But both of them due to their height are all standing behind, which make it hard to appreciate their dances. I have to stand up at a side to watch.

After their performance, we left without having the buffet. The queue was horrendous. I gave up joining the queue, beside Naomi was feeling uncomfortable wearing her costume and I have forgotten to bring an extra set of cloth.

Instead we have a wonderful time at J8 eating and browsing the stores………I must remember to feedback to the childcare in regard to their poor organization in the buffet……

Princess and the Frog

2009-12-14T14:20:00.001+08:00

Yesterday I brought the girls to watch Princess and the Frog. I actually wanted to watch it at J8 but Golden Village do not offered this movie, thus we went to AMK Hub.

The movie was about a Prince being turned into a frog by a voodoo witch. Originally, if the frog was being kissed by a princess, the spell will be broken and the frog will turn back into a prince.

Therefore the twist of the plot was that instead of being kiss by a princess, the frog was kissed by a waitress and her too being turned into a frog.

They embarked on a journey to look for the witch to undo the spell. Meanwhile the prince’s servant took his place and with the help of the witch, he turned into the prince and intended to married the princess. His purpose was to take over her family’s wealth.

During the journey, the prince and the waitress began to develop feeling for each other. For the spell to be broken, the prince has to get the real princess to kiss him, and they were left with not much time. They hurried back just to encounter the voodoo witch, who wanted the prince captured alive.

Eventually, their love conquered everything and broken the spell. Fairy tales always has a happy ending which is why the children love it………..

Storm Warriors 2

2009-12-14T14:18:00.001+08:00

Friday (11/12/09), Luisa and I went to watch The Storm Warriors. After 11 years from the 1st part, I would expect the 2nd part to be better, since now it’s better equipped with the latest technology.

But what a disappointment it turned out to be. The fighting scenes were too unreal and animated. There weren’t many dialogs.

I would say the plot was not up to expectation. But these are my personal opinion. There might be others who will like it. From the ending, it’s seems to me that there will be part 3, which I doubt I will watch it other than renting the DVD.

Prior to the movie, we went shopping. We deliberately booked for the midnight show, so we have ample time to shop around.

In the end, I was the one who bought thing and Luisa bought none. She has more determination than me. I bought vitamins, facial product, and a dress.

But I guessed we do more cranky stuffs, more like I’m the one. We went to several shops and I tried on lots of hair accessories, weird sunglasses, masks and hats. My way of unwind after a day of hard work.

We don’t get to wear all these items during normal days, so it’s best to just try on in the shops, and who know maybe we can find something that suit us. For me, I realized wearing hair accessories look nice on short hair and my face shape……

Therefore I will try to experiment with different look, it’s a good way to explore different outlook.

Untactfulness kill

2009-12-10T10:16:00.000+08:00

Last night Aaron called me. I wasn’t surprised, I guessed I was expecting him to call soon but I disliked talking to him. Apparently we can’t strike a normal conversation without an argument arises.

I missed his calls several times not because I don’t want to answer but I’m on the line with his mum to discuss about Cora’s vacation and making back-up plan during those weeks when she’s not around.

If I picked up his call, it will definitely destroy my calmness in logical thinking. I decided priority is Dinah’s welfare as Cora not around has affected Dinah’s welfare not so much of Naomi and Natasha as they are both in childcare.

After I hung up with his mum, I called my mum to amend our prior arrangement. It’s always sweet to have parents’ support and I’m grateful to them. They are always around to help me out during my difficult time.

During these calls to my mum or his mum, he kept calling my mobile. I chose to ignore. When all was done, then I called him (basic courtesy). Unsurprisingly, out conversation turned to be an argument.

I have tried my very best to calm the whole conversation but unsuccessful. I can only say he’s very untactful with his words and it’s very offensive.

Aaron must learn to show sincerity or else he won’t keep anyone close to him for long other than his parents……………

Testing the water

2009-12-08T14:58:00.002+08:00

Yesterday I was so hopeful that my room’s aircon will be fixed in the end the technician forgot about our appointment and he assured me that he will not forget today. I will give him the benefit of doubts.

Actually it’s Aaron’s mother who reminded me about the technician else I would really have forgotten too. I guessed they wanted to have dinner with the girls. Cora called me while I was on my way home to inform me that they were having dinner at KFC.

I joined them too. Sometimes it’s nice to sit down and have dinner with her and the girls as long as our conversation does not include Aaron.

After dinner, they sent us home and shortly after we returned to J8 as I have some groceries to get.

Our normal routine went smoothly and joyfully until Aaron’s mum called me at 11.20pm. Usually we should be asleep but last night we turned in late.

I thought she’s going to talk to me regarding Cora’s vacation but when she mentioned Aaron, my heart sank.

The last time we talked about our marriage seems ages ago (more than 6 mths). I definitely wouldn’t expect to be saying all this again as we have already dissolved the marriage and soon to be discussing about the ancillary issues.

It was all so sudden when I heard him wanting to salvage the marriage. She tried persuading me for 2 hours but to no avail. She mentioned about for the sake of the children and for Aaron. She described Aaron near nervous breakdown situation, but she did not consider me.

It’s not easy for me to move ahead and be firm on my decision. I gave him ample of chances but he never treasures. It’s a significant risk I’m taking by giving him another chance. I try to be optimistic but it’s really hard.

Like I told her we still have a lot of differences that has yet to iron out. The chances of we arguing will always be omnipresent. The essential ingredients to a marriage is trust, communication and love but I don’t trust him, I can’t communicate properly with him as he basically is a walking time bomb that I never know when it will erupt and definitely our love has died down.

Aaron’s mum can give me a thousand of reason but I never feel his sincerity and to me his pride will always be above our marriage.

I guessed she knew our conversation was heading nowhere, thus she suggested that we talk between ourselves privately. I agree on the condition that they don’t expect too much out of it. I guessed I myself lose confident in their words and definitely no trust in them…… Perhaps ultimately we will never get talk after all…….
My understanding of him tells me that he will never humble himself to take the first step. Sometimes I wish we can maintain thing as it is without mentioning Aaron………

Shopping & Sharon's Wedding......

2009-12-07T15:16:00.002+08:00

Friday (04/12/09), Huijun and I went to J8 shopping. I guessed it’s more like chatting outing.

So happened that day both of us was in foul mood therefore there were a lot of thing to share. It was always great meeting her for casual and sometimes secret chat…..

We did go shopping after dinner, and both of us bought earrings, then we headed to coffee beans for relaxation….

I guessed she must be very vexed over her issues with her family as well as her boyfriend. The only thing I can do is shared her problem with her and at the same time offered her some solutions…….

We did not stay late as next day morning I’ve to be woken up early for Sharon’s wedding. Actually I don’t feel like going not because of her but I feel out of place hanging out with her relatives who apparently do not like me. I presumed it’s due to my divorce with Aaron.

I did try turning it down but Sharon’s mum (my ex-mother-in-law) kept insisting I turned up on the pretext that it will be fun. I really do not wish to reject her good intention at least that what I think so…..

Therefore we headed home before midnight and I have to say my mood did lighten a lot aftermath……

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Saturday (05/12/09), its Sharon’s wedding. Early in the morning we (me and the girls) went to their place for the gate crashing. To think it’s a Saturday and I still have to wake up early but for her big day its fine.

We reached there before 8am but I was too tired too feel hungry. We went to Sharon’s room and she was all ready in her makeup and gown. She really looked stunning. No wonder they say bride always look the most beautiful. I truly believe when I see her…..

The girls were excited too except for Naomi. She kept clinging onto me and refused to take any pictures with Sharon.

But I wouldn’t say that to her relatives. They surely didn’t seem happy to see me, especially the grandmothers. It was really just what I have expected. I sat separately from them. I stayed with the girls at the dinning area watching cartoon.

Before 9am, Sharon’s friends were all here to get prepared for the tricks that will be awaiting the groom. They prepared lot of exotic drinks and tricks for the groom and his friends.

At 9am, the groom and his friends were here. They went through lot of obstacles before the groom got to see the bride. Dinah was particularly excited and before we noticed, she was already one of the fun-maker in the sister’s gang. She was standing right in front instructing the groom (Kenny) and his friends to do funny actions. I think she’s really very engrossed and into it….. I’m glad she enjoyed herself so much.

After the gate crashing, it’s the tea ceremony. Of course, we are more like spectators but it was over very soon. After all the photos taking, they left to Kenny’s house for another tea ceremony.

We waited until 11am for our lunch, but it was all Muslim foods. I hardly ate the food and the girls ate instant noodle and that’s it.

We were supposed to leave after lunch but they wanted Cora to stay behind to clear the dishes, thus I went home first with the girls.

Cora was supposed to be home before 1pm, but I waited to no avail, so I asked my neighbor to help look after the girls for a while. I explained briefly and dashed off. Thank goodness the girls are perfectly fine with Auntie Suzie.

Throughout the afternoon, I was rushing from one place to the other to get thing done. It lasted till we reached Raffles Hotel, then I’m able to rest a while. But not for long, I’m on the go again – to make up for the girls and getting them prepared for the entrance.

Natasha followed me too closely at least she never cried which was good already, but her sisters did a wonderful job. While the pastor was blessing their marriage, I was busy looking after Natasha.

After the solemnization, we headed to the ballroom to get a drink before heading back to the suite to change the girls’ dresses. I managed to steal some rest time before we headed back to the ballroom for the dinner.

We reached home after midnight and were totally exhausted. The next day we hardly managed to get out of bed.

Still the girls seemed to have an enjoyable and memorable day……………….

New Moon

2009-12-07T15:06:00.002+08:00

Yesterday I and Ching went to watch New Moon, the second part of the twilight saga. It wasn’t that interesting and I definitely wouldn’t want to watch the third or fourth part in the theatre. Perhaps rent the DVDs will do.

The show doesn’t boast any action and the plot is very dull, seems to lack of something which I can’t put into words.

Ching and I agree that the show focus too much on Bella and the scenes between Bella and Edwards are too steamy. It’s more liked watching fully clothes pornography. Too much kissing scenes and those scenes echo a very negative signal.

I seriously don’t feel that it’s valued for money. It showed the fickleness of Bella and the drug addicted look of Edwards.

Long weekend......

2009-12-03T13:31:00.001+08:00

Friday (27/11/09), we went to AMK hub to celebrate my maternal grandmother’s birthday. Coincidentally, her birthday fell on a public holiday.

We went there for lunch at the Soup Restaurant. The food was nice and I definitely would bring my family there again. That day my uncle even bought each of them a present. I guessed it was pre-Christmas presents.

It was a very nice gesture indeed but my mum kept asking me to stop him. I ended up being sandwiched by them. I gave up with their little struggle and walked off.

After lunch, we went to NTUC to buy groceries for my grandmother, before my parents sent her back to the old folk home.

Even though it was a short trip but I could see that my grandmother was full of joy. A simple act of eating and strolling can bring so much joy to her…….

After they left, I and the girls continued shopping around before we headed home too. From this celebration, I realized that it’s the thought that really count when celebrating one’s birthday………..
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Saturday (28/11/09), I and Huijun went to do our pap smear. It was her first time thus she’s very nervous and embarrassed as well.

I did my pap smear first then her. For me everything was quick perhaps it was another routine checkup for me and the gynae has been seeing me for years.

For Huijun it took a bit of time as the gynae need to find out for more of her history and a more detail checkup. After her pap smear, the doctor delivered a few pieces of bad news which I don’t think it would be nice divulging without her permission. After all I believed she would like it to be confidential. It’s not life threatening but it’s definitely not a good new to her…… At least that’s what I feel……

Next we went to Orchard shopping. I guessed shopping lifted her mood considerably but there’s other thing bothering her who I guessed it’s relationship……

Nevertheless, we managed to have an enjoyable shopping as well as chatting……….
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Sunday (29/11/09), we went to Raffles hotel for Sharon’s wedding rehearsal. It was really a hot day to have wedding rehearsal.

The girls practiced a few rounds of scattering the flowers but not very successful as Natasha kept wandered off.

Natasha is just too young to understand instruction let alone followed them accordingly. Thank goodness, Dinah and Naomi are big enough to do it correctly……

After a few round of testing, we went to Far East Plaza to alter Aaron’s mum evening gown.

Somehow I enjoyed that day which I can’t explain why either…………… Now only left with the big day on this coming Saturday (05/12/09)…………

Exams hiccup

2009-12-03T13:29:00.001+08:00

Last week (24/11/09), I finished my last paper. I was so glad and relieved that it was over.

Among the three papers I took, my first paper was the worst I felt. I totally had no confident. But to worry over spilled milk seemed useless; I can only prayed for the best.

My first paper I already felt demoralized, but my second paper I felt even worse, not due to the difficulty of the paper but I discovered some shocking revelation from my classmates.

That day I reached the school early, and casually talked to my classmates, from him I realized that many of my classmates whose diploma is IT, got exempted for related modules, but I wasn’t at all.

I felt the unfairness and I lost my concentration during the exam. I still managed to finish off confidently but the news kept weighing heavily in my mind.

During my last paper, I went to the student service centre and demanded to speak to my coordinator, and I reasoned with her in regard to my exemption. She kept insisting that there’s no mistake on their part but I just wanted her to send my transcript to the university to verify if there’s really no exemption for me. Eventually she relented and agreed to check for me, but I have my doubt in her ability……….

Nevertheless I will still giver her the benefit of doubt and after 2 weeks still no new then I will find out from her.

2012

2009-11-16T15:34:00.002+08:00

Last Friday (13/11/09), I went to watch '2012' with Ching. I went down to Cathy cineleisure to buy the tickets in the afternoon during lunch time. Finally I'm able to utilize the 2 vouchers that Aaron has given me last year November.

The show was hilarious and exciting at certain parts, but the only spoiler is the power trip that happened just half an hour before ending.

We were all so engrossed and anticipating the last part when it's black out, and no one offered us - the audiences any explanations.

Out of curiosity, I walked to the entrance of the theatre and asked ther staffs. They gave me vague explanations and tried to reassure me that they will fix the problem asap....

After half an hour of waiting, the show was finally resume. The irony part was we spent after an hour waiting for a show that had only half an hour left.....

Anyway we can't blame them, it's not that they deliberately dragged us.....They are innocent too, already so many people throwing nasty words at them..........It's the fault of the power failure.......

Back to the movie, I enjoyed watching it but the disappointment part was the death of Gordon. It's seems so predictable, else overall I still liked it.......

Just to add-on how we passed that half an hour wait, we ate durain chips which I bought for Ching from Thailand...................I were so thankful that I remembered to bring it along...........

Legally Divorce

2009-11-10T15:49:00.001+08:00

I’m legally considered divorce. This morning I went for court hearing to legalize the dissolve of marriage. It was a speedy process. My case was the first to read, so I just sworn in court, and all I did were to say yes for everything my lawyer has asked me. The same procedure applied to Aaron as well. When both side were done, the judge announced the dissolve of our marriage, and give instruction for further direction in regards to our ancillary issues.

Finally I cleared the first hurdle and to me it felt like a major step ahead. I’m glad that I stayed firm to my decision to divorce now then later. Eventually we will still divorce as I understand I can never tolerate an immature and indecisive partner.

While I’m in Bangkok, I called regularly to the girls, and Dinah complained to me her mistreatment. He couldn’t even stand Dinah sitting next to him that he shouted for Cora to get her to sit away. Instead of addressing her name, he keeps addressing her as “that girl”. I can understand Dinah’s anger and frustration.

I despise him even more. A man vents his frustration on a child. He seriously ought to feel ashamed of himself, but I doubt he feels it. His action just proved right of my decision.

Last night, Cora told me that she intends to carry on working for them, I was aghast. To clarify her statement, I called Aaron’s mother. Indeed Cora was telling the truth, but I also informed her of my decision to bar Cora from coming. Effectively she can continue working for them but she needs not come over anymore.

I can’t bear for another moment of her infringing my privacy and the lack of freedom because of her “spying” on me. I would rather suffer for the time being at least till the ancillary issues iron out than to use her.

Indeed it will not be easy for me, since all will be in the childcare and student care but at least I have a peace of mind at home. Fortunately I have a set of supportive parents who agree to help me when I’m studying.

Definitely it’s not going to be a long term measure but for now that’s our arrangement. His mother upon hearing my arrangement feels uncomfortable and tried to persuade me to hire a maid. But she did not factor in the financial aspect. If I can afford, I will do so, but reality is my financial doesn’t allow me to do so.

I can sense that our conversation was leading nowhere, thus I ended with telling her to pray to the lord for guidance. Its meaningless arguing what should be done when I am pretty firm on my stand……………..

I doubt she will stop at there, but let take a step at a time, like I told her she can’t expect me to be clairvoyant. Let live as if we only have today, but we definitely can plan as if we live forever………………….

Trip to Bangkok - 6/11/09

2009-11-10T15:23:00.001+08:00

Last Friday (06/11/09), I went for our company trip to Bangkok. We went straight to the airport after work to catch 9pm flight. I was excited yet missed the girls. The prospect of shopping indeed was exciting but I rarely away from them made me missed them.

Nevertheless, I still have to go. It’s once in a blue moon opportunity to stay in a posh hotel and all expenses paid for trip, except shopping and lunch.

We reached our hotel (The Peninsular) around 12.30am. We all have a room to ourselves. The view from our room was spectacular. No wonder it’s costly for a night stay in the hotel. The room was spacious and the amenities were all rounded, and that includes the bathroom. I liked the fully automated system the best. I could lazed on the bed and controlled the light, curtains, and TV from my bedside controller. After unpacking my clothes, toiletries and a warm bath, I felt asleep on the king size bed. It was a wonderful feeling to sleep alone on such spacious bed, yet I’m slightly unused to it.

The next morning, we woke up early for breakfast provided by the hotel’s café. I enjoyed trying everything they offered – Chinese to Western. We could choose to sit outdoor overlooking the river or indoor enjoying the coolness. I chose indoor so did my colleagues. I guess we overate ourselves with all the food they offered…..

After our hearty breakfast, we dashed straight to Central World but we mistook the time. The mall opened at 10am local time but our watch all reflected 10am Singapore time which is 1 hour ahead of them. Since we still have an hour to wait, we went to Amari Watergate (opposite Platinum)’s wholesale market and bought many dresses and skirts, not to forget 2 pairs of shoes and plenty of belts. It was a real bargain.

After we are done, we headed back to Central World’s Naraya and Isetan. Our first stop were Naraya, I guess I was grabbing whatever I fancy without considering whether I need it due to time constraint. Thus I spent 3000 plus bahts just in Naraya alone, actually there’s more than that but we had to rush to Isetan to buy bras…….

We took a short break for lunch before we dashed for our bras buying……I spent 5000 plus bahts buying bras and panties…….

Our last stop for the day before we need to head back to our hotel to get ready for that night dinner with bosses at Shangri-La. So our last stop was – massage paid for by company at Health Land. I chose therapeutic massage. It wasn’t as pleasant as I thought it to be. I felt pain instead of relax. I guessed I’m the noisy one disturbing the rest……

Finally it was hotel time. Since we reached early, I started packing my luggage and examine my shopping “trophies”. I was so excited trying all the clothes, shoes, belts, and feeling the bags and ample of hair clips.

Once done, it was bathing time to get ready for the dinner….The dinner at Shangri-La was nice, just quantity not there. Most of them drank wine or spirits but I preferred water or coke….. When the dinner was over, I returned to my room for a warm soak in the bathtub and watching TV as I soaked.

It was indeed a real relaxation…….Our last day (Sunday 8/11/09) began with same breakfast buffet and dashed for massage again (this time round I chose Thai massage). The massage was way better than the day before. We cut short and massage and dashed to MBK for another round of shopping, but due to my shortage of Thai baht and no acceptance of VISA, I managed to grab enough tidbits for home and a sunglass.

We rushed back to our hotel to take our luggage, check out and headed straight for the airport for our 4.45pm flight.

At the airport, initially I thought there was a show going on but it was weird seeing so many policemen surrounding the crowds. Later I realized that there another political rallies going on. No wonder so many passengers rushing to check in. gradually I can feel the tension building up and more enforcement arrived but fortunately nothing happen…..

We reached Singapore at 8 plus pm and home at 9 pm. I was happily unpacking my luggage while waiting for the girls home to show them what I got for them…….

Based on my experiences, I would definitely return to Thailand. Almost everything was nice, except the bad traffic (next time perhaps take the sky train), the dried hot weather, the Japanese food and rude taxi drivers. Other than some of these mishaps, otherwise I enjoy myself there……………

Abducted

2009-11-05T11:33:00.001+08:00

Last night, I couldn’t fall asleep despite my drowsiness. I was feeling the stress building up within me and the root cause is – financial. I understand it’s meaningless to stress over issue that is not within my control but the psychological battle within me is overwhelming. I gave up struggling to fall into slumber and got up to the living room and continued reading my book.

As I read the book, gradually my stress seems to depart from me. I was so carried away that I kept reading and eventually I finished the whole book.

It was about 2 young girls named Charlene and Lisa from the same elementary school and they are best friends, being abducted by Alan Hopkinson, a convicted and released sexual offender.

A chilly morning while they were walking to school, Alan abducted them and the beginning of their ordeals. They were tied up in the car boot and transported to a run-down and unkempt flat.

Alan got them to strip naked and wore an oversized T-shirts. He would take turn bringing either one of them to his bedroom and raped them repeatedly, but mostly Charlene. There was an opportunity for them to escape but they chose to give him the benefit of the doubt as he has promised to free them.

Reality it was a lied and they were back to where they originally were. They tried to find way to escape but there was nothing they could use or do to escape from him as he has blocked the entire exit and that included the windows.

Four days later their ordeal finally ended, when policemen came to his flat to investigate an abused filed by his neighbor, regarding him abusing her daughters. Cornered, Alan revealed that the two missing girls were in his flat.

Due to the intense appeal to search for them, thus the policemen could easily identify them, and notified their parents to bring some fresh clothes for them at the police station.

Eventually Alan got nine life sentences, but the emotional turmoil caused their friendship to a breaking point. I suppose it was an aftermath result of their ordeal. Perhaps there were some dismay and poisonous thought going in them, but that was my speculation.

After years of separating, Charlene be the ice-breaker and called Lisa. Lisa being wary of her due to her previous attitude towards her went to meet her anyway. Once they met, all the old grudges left, and they are best pals again.

Now they are the proud parent themselves, and they wanted to protect their child from the abuse they suffered…………

I believed their ordeal will make them stronger than most of us and it’s really amazing that they have moved on greatly in lives………………

Bamboo Palace

2009-11-05T11:32:00.002+08:00

Tuesday (03/11/09), I finished reading this book. It was the history about the royal family of Laos and their eventual dooms.

The author described the various places of Laos and the palace. The idyllic scenery behind hid a deeply traumatizing revolution that would make Laos something similar to China – from dynasty to communist.

As the author tried to trace the ending of the last king and queen, he encountered hiccups along the way either by the government official or the ordinary people. Not many of them wish to divulge or go into detail about the dynasty for fear or for loyalty – which I couldn’t comprehend.

After much effort spent travelling across the villages, he managed to get the answer he has been searching for – which I don’t think I would write down………….

It has a good description of the places, and the livelihoods of the people are very sad…….

Birthday.....

2009-11-02T15:53:00.000+08:00

I have an enjoyable birthday celebration last week. Thursday (29/10/09) was the actual day, and that day my friends treated me to buffet. It’s a sweet gesture from them.

Friday (30/10/09), I had a very hectic day and I was late meeting Huijun. My mood was really terrible for that day, but I did not pass onto anyone. I was glad seeing my friend that I couldn’t be bothered with my bad mood. It was meant to be “celebrating” weekend as well as my birthday.

Huijun gave me a pendant from Citigem. I really appreciated that. Initially, we wanted to have buffet at Coca but it was full house thus we went to Sushi Tei. That day alone I have sushi for lunch (Sakae Sushi) and dinner (Sushi Tei).

As usual, we went to hunt for a late opening café for some “update”. We settled on Xin Wang. We stayed till their closing time at 2 am and ended our day.

While snacking at Xin Wang, we met our secondary school friend, whom we have not met for a long time. I admitted that I couldn’t recognize him at all, but Huijun has no problem with it.

The only scary part is ION’s toilets. It was rather senseless to switch off the light in the cubicle. It was scary as it was pitch dark. We ended up entering into one cubicle but back facing the one who is settling the “business”. It can be rather eerie.

When I reached home, it was almost 2.40am, and by the time I dozed off it was 3.30 am. I barely slept for long when I heard Natasha cried. I got startled and went to take a look. It was then I realized that Cora had left to my-in-laws’ house. I was furious. I thought we have agreed that she would stay overnight at my place.

I called to ask for an explanation, just to be more furious by Aaron’s mother reply. I would rather not go into detail. Therefore, I hardly caught any sleep afterward and met Wei Ching in the afternoon.

We met at Bugis and headed to Arab Street – fika (a Swedish café) for lunch. She gave me a clutch for my birthday, as she remembered that I needed one for an upcoming wedding dinner. I was really touched by her thoughtfulness. After our lunch, we explored the few lanes of Arab Street, and absorbed some of the Middle East uniqueness.

By afternoon, I was more or less burned out and we shopped a while more before we call it a quit for the evening. But the day was not really over for me, as I agreed my mum to go over for dinner. Our plan was to eat outside but with the looming dark clouds and later on horrendous rain, we ended up packed chicken rice for dinners. Even the cake would have to shelf due to the heavy rain.

Even though we did not eat out or bought any cake, but we still enjoyed ourselves, and we left at 9.30pm. I was totally exhausted when I lied down on my bed, and shortly thereafter I dozed off.

Yesterday evening, the last round of celebration ended with Sharon, Kenny, Sharon’s mother and my three little princesses. We went to Swensen for our yearly routine – having Swensen Disney Princess ice-cream cake.

It was meant to celebrate my as well as Sharon’s birthday, since our birthdays were only two days apart. And finally Sharon gave me vouchers from Capitaland.

I seriously appreciate that my friends and family take the effort to make my birthday truly special and well-love…………

Chapter 1 closed

2009-10-16T13:54:00.002+08:00

Yesterday I took half day leave to attend mediation in regard to my divorce. Both of us including our solicitors must attend. As usual, Aaron’s parents also attend, but I did not see any of them. I’m at one end and they are at other. It’s not done purposely; just very coincident that’s all.

Thing went very smoothly, as I have expected. It’s an unexplainable issue, but I just knew he would agree. Therefore it was a very short exchange between our lawyers. He agreed readily to an uncontested divorce and we went on to discuss the amendment of the divorce reason.

From a lengthy 8 pages long reason, we cut it down to 1 page and focus on the main reason – Dinah. Dinah was the main catalyst of our marriage breakdown, and the rest of the incidents were just add-on. Both of us accepted the facts and now we are just waiting for the hearing for an uncontested divorce. All divorce has to go before a judge, sort of a confirmation of the both party acceptance to dissolve the marriage.

I dislike the feeling of going to court. Personally court holds a very melancholy feeling for me. Yesterday as I left, I felt a surge of memories flooding back, a bittersweet memory.

I cherish and love those times when Aaron was thoughtful, even though not a lot. It’s a mixed feeling I experienced, and just hope everything can wrap up soon, so that we can move on. I don’t want to keep holding onto past memories which I know is gone for good.

I hope that’s how Aaron feel too……… I guess mutually our feeling is slowly diminishing over time, thus less anger, that's why we are able to sort thing out amicably..........

Inside the Kingdom

2009-10-16T13:52:00.002+08:00

I finished reading this book yesterday. It was another story about the repressive and depressive lives of Muslim women living in the Middle East. But the exception of this story is that it revealed the Bin Laden’s family.

Carmen Bin Laden is the ex-wife of Yeslam Bin Laden, half brother of Osama Bin Laden. In the Middle East, especially the rich older generation, it is very common for a man to have more than 4 wives. For Carmen’s ex-father-in-law, he had 22 wives, both current and divorced, and from them he had 54 children.

Carmen’s heritage has a combination of Persian and Swiss, but she spent her un-marriage lives in Geneva. Due to her exposure of western values, she found it oppressive to live in Saudi Arabia later when Yeslam suggested shifting there.

Initially her marriage was blissful and she had a supportive husband, whom is very unlike any Arab men. But as he aged, his Saudi’s ways become more apparent, and it’s the beginning of a souring marriage.

Carmen is considered a lot more fortunate than the Saudi’s women, as she enjoyed small liberty from her husband as compared to the rest of the story I read, where women are treated like an object, unworthy of any respect and strip off any remaining dignity.

Instead this story reveals the rich Saudi’s women side of the story, another form of confinement, or golden fish bowl. I would think their plight will be more of an emotional problem – the loneliness and emptiness they feel, rather than the physical harm most woman experience.

Petition Success

2009-10-12T15:25:00.002+08:00

Last Friday (09/10/09), I received the email from Esther (my new coordinator) who informed me that my petition to change the timetable has been successful. Even though, there are a few terms and conditions, but it is still within the reasonable range.

Many I believed accepted the changes except for the effective date – April 2010. Even though, most is still glad and willing to wait but I decided to persuade them to move it earlier. There's no harm in trying, just as in the first place I tried to change the timetable. If I doubted myself, I believed our timetable will never change, till someone point out......

Finally, a change of the coordinator proves to be more efficient as compared to Cheryl. I hate to admit that Cheryl is inefficient.

Nevertheless, it lightens my mood for that day as I couldn’t bear the thought of having Saturday lessons throughout course. Imagine all the hassle and trouble it brings to my family and friends who have to accommodate my weekly weekend lessons.

Not without my sisters

2009-10-12T15:24:00.001+08:00

I finished reading this book last Friday (09/10/09). This book talked about the lives of 3 sisters. Celeste and Kristina are from the same set of parents while Juliana shares the same father.

But all of them had something in common – they grew up in “The Children of God” – a cult. They exploited the name of Jesus and committed all these innocent children to incest relationship or adult-child sexual relationships – all in the name of Jesus.

I’m disgusted as I read the story. All of them are considered the “first generation” of an untainted child. The cult leader – David Berg who was the “founder” of the cult controlled and brainwashed the group members.

The members are so effectively brainwashed that they willingly gave most of their incomes to him. He named himself – Moses David.

The thing he encouraged his members to do were totally perverted e.g. “flirty fishing”, that is, female members having unprotected sex with men in order to “convert” or “savage” them from the Systemites (which is the law or the non-believers).

Together with his wife – Queen Maria, they embarked on a unbelievable inhumane journey or torture – even to their own children.

Both of them even committed incest and forced their children with others as well since a tender age. Many felt into depression or committed suicide.

Thus the 3 sisters suffered from the same fate. In the cult, children rarely live with their own parents; they are always under “carer” (foster family within the cult). Everything in life is control by their “prophet” and his “queen”.

Kristina, her younger siblings and mother are sent to live with a man called Joshua, while Celeste remained with her father.

At a very young age, Kristina witnessed Joshua daily abusive behaviors to them as well as her mother. He forced her mother to flirty fishing on the pretext to “save” souls but reality he’s relying on the money to feed his luxury lifestyle.

When Kristina was 12, her mother came to her senses and realized that the “religion” she embraced was actually a devious cult. She made plan and escaped with all her children.

But she never forgot Celeste, and tried every way to gain her freedom, but Celeste is too brainwashed to see beyond the lied that has been drilled into her since young.

The turning point came when she has her child – Cherie and she realized that she doesn’t want her daughter to grow up as she was. Most importantly, she started to question her faith and grew suspicious of it teaching.

Juliana was an unloved child, who has been moving from places to places. Many times she contemplated suicide but withdrew at the last minute. It was the death of one of her half-sisters – Davida (she suffered from depression and overdose on heroin) that served as her wake up call, and she decided to get out of the cult.

Currently, all of them are free from the cult and this book is to inform outsider about the danger of getting involve in cult who uses the name of religious groups………

Damaged

2009-09-29T11:47:00.002+08:00

I have finished reading this book on Saturday (26/09/09). It was about a foster carer named Cathy Glass. She has over 20 years of experience in fostering so the girl in this book – Jodie isn’t her first or the last child she cared for.

Jodie is a deeply traumatized 8 years old girl, and Cathy will gradually come to learn of it.

Cathy soon realized that Jodie isn’t the normal affected child whose parents neglect them instead her parents abused her sexually subjecting her to the world of pornographic.

They used materials to bride and threaten to prevent her from revealing thing that has been done to her.

When Cathy learned all the shocking revelation from Jodie, she called her social worker in charge – Ellen. Apparently she’s not interested. Fortunately, there’s Jill the foster agency worker who act as the middle person between the social worker and the fosterer.

They tried to prosecute the abusers but Jodie refused to reveal to the police. Meanwhile, Jodie’s behavior plummeted. She started to behave increasingly bizarre and hallucinate. Despite Cathy’s assurance, she still distrusts her surrounding and her conditions worsen.

Concerned Cathy informed her psychologist, and she has been diagnosed as suffering from mental illness. They recommend her to stay in a therapeutic unit, and reluctantly Cathy has to let her go……

Cathy still visited her constantly over the weekend, and she will always welcome her back to her family if she is ever recovered to be out from the unit.

Last but not least, Jodie’s abusers (her father and uncles) have been charged in court but not so much because of Jodie as her evidences are not strong. Instead it’s her friends…….

Bangkok Trip

2009-09-17T16:27:00.000+08:00

I’m anticipating the trip to Bangkok. I’m counting down to 6th of November. Despite it still have 1 over month to go but I’m still excited over it.

Perhaps too long never travel and I desperately need a change of scenery. Lately I’m also busy with a lot of research that I have no time to go to my usual book hunt. It has been quite some time since I rent new book. It seems like I have to really make a conscious effort.

Few days ago, my colleagues and I were planning in advance in regard to our Bangkok trip. Since I have not been to Bangkok, I was an active participant and eagerly trying to digest whatever they have to say. I was very tempted by the food as well as shopping.

A few of my colleagues will be flying to Bangkok earlier for some couple timeout. One of them asked why my husband isn’t joining in the trip. I cooked up some excuse that I thought was logical. I am still uncomfortable broadcasting to people whom I’m unfamiliar.

But her question did touch my healing wound. To make it worse, some of them were saying how romantic the river will be. We will be staying at Shangri-La, and learnt that it is facing the river. It is a very ideal and romantic place to stroll down it. I could almost envision the scenario but I know it’s not going to happen.

No doubt it would be nice if that special person is there for me, but reality bite. It was then I realized that how I wished the marriage could work. If I were to say I hated him to the core, it’s impossible after all we did have wonderful time together, but internal and external factors rocked our marriage. Thus I temporary suppressed those bad memories and created plus a bit of original sweet memory. It is like fairy tale come true. But my research brought me to reality and I realized too that I did not have a lot of time to fantasize.

Somehow, my princesses, study, work and friends fully occupy my time that I know I couldn’t waste my time and effort envisioning a fairy tale that I know deep down will never happen………………….

1st result slip...

2009-09-11T15:53:00.000+08:00

Yesterday evening I received my result slip from MDIS. I was wrecking with nervous as I torn opened the letter. Inside I was preparing for the worst possible outcome yet I was hoping for the best.

This week I have been opening the mailbox daily. I was anticipating the arrival of my result slip. Just few days ago, I thought it was my result slip. I was trembling when I torn opened the letter, but it wasn’t what I have expected. It was a reminder for my second installments. Immediately I was flabbergasted.

Sill I knew I would receive the letter shortly. Thus I continue opening the mailbox till yesterday I finally got what I have been anticipating.

I couldn’t hide my nervousness and quickly torn opened. I was overjoyed when I saw my grades. I passed with flying color even for accounting module. That paper was my most depressing exam I have taken for last semester. I was praying not to take supplementary paper. Yet I not only passed that module and I got a very satisfactory grade for it.

It gave me a sense of satisfaction and felt that my effort has been rewarded. But I have to bear in mind that this effort has to be continuous throughout my course duration, else it will be meaningless…………………

Mama Tina

2009-09-09T13:59:00.001+08:00

This morning while on my way to work, I have finished reading this book. It is a sequel to bridging across my sorrows.

The first book was about Christina’s childhood and the growth of the foundation from ground zero. This book focused on the continuance growth of Vietnam and their expansion.

In it they mentioned about her means and way to get sponsorship and raised funds for the operation of the foundations in Vietnam.

Gradually with many kind hearted and generous sponsor from company as well as ideas contributed by her children and close knitted friends, they expanded to several countries.

Thus now they have foundations at Europe and Asia countries. The book mostly focused on Vietnam’s foundation and how she has to constantly travel to countries to highlight the cause of the foundation and raising the much needed funds to continue operating the centre.

Somewhere in the middle, she explained her dream of visiting Mongolia exactly like her vision of Vietnam. She worked on her dream and visited Mongolia. She found that the place is the cruel remnants of Russia Soviet’s rule. After the Russian has left, Mongolia is left to survive on their limited resources. Sandwiching between China and Russia, they have to depend on both countries for a lot of their resources. Cripple with their harsh weather, it make Mongolia living condition terrible.

Children there are suffering from coldness, malnutrition and abused from family and outsider. Most of them are living on streets or in the prison (for stealing). Their conditions are worse than Vietnam. It is horrendous.

Sensing the urgent needs to recue the children, she co-operated with the existing organization based in Mongolia and started building “ger” village for the children. Slowly her effort paid off slightly. Even though they still have a long way to go but at least they are making headway.

I feel fortunate and bless that I live comfortably well despite my current predicament (divorce). At least compared to them, mine is peanut……………

Suicide Pact - Teenagers

2009-09-09T13:58:00.000+08:00

Yesterday I read from the strait times about a group of teenagers’ pact to commit suicide. Apparently the seven of them agreed to commit suicide to gain spiritual power to save the world from evil. Sounds fantasy or movie plot but its real, and 2 of them died from jumping down.

The rest of them withdrew at the eleventh hours. Ku Witaya was liked a leader in the groups of boys. This 16 years old boys had the full trust of his friends so much so that when the young self professed Taoism medium suggested a suicide pact as part of a grand plan to “sacrifice” themselves in order to save the world from demons, his friends and younger brother agreed.

Moments after Witaya and his close friend, Sia Chan Hong pummeled 9 floors to their deaths in the early hours of 23/08/08, the remaining 5 boys backed out. Even though some of the boys were not convinced and actually terrified of dying, but because of their “loyalty” to him, they agreed. But after witnessing one of them in agony before dying, they got terrified.

It is sad to read it especially the 2 boys are only 16. They should have a bright future ahead but now it was all gone. Imagine their parents’ agonies, raising them from babies till so big, and they just jumped down without evening sparing a thought for their parents.

This new is a wake up call for parents to be more mindful of their children behaviors. If ever sensed they are emotionally disturbed or in stress, then it’s time to seek help and not leave it unattended as we do not know what it can lead to……….

Dampening Moment....

2009-09-09T13:57:00.000+08:00

Sunday (06/09/09) evening, Aaron’s parents suggested bringing the girls to Raffles Town Club for swimming. I thought it was great and agreed. I knew Aaron would go but did not think he would be much of a problem, since they ever joined them to swim once without me, and it went fine (at least that’s what I thought).

I did not swim as I experienced some inconvenience, thus I stayed to look after the belongings. I was reading my book when I heard a shout. I recognized the voice. It was Aaron. My experiences tell me that he must be shouting at Dinah. I was right.

I tried calling Dinah over but his mother was comforting her. I did not know what they are talking but I did manage to get Dinah over. I asked her what had happened, halfway explaining she cried.

As a mother’s stand, her crying will break my heart. I comforted her and reassured her that I will try to avoid similar incident from happening, despite I know it might not be easy. Apparently Dinah wanted the ball which Natasha was holding. While Dinah was snatching, he snapped and shouted at her to leave Natasha alone.

I did not know whether his bad mood stem from seeing me or he just wants to vent his frustration on Dinah. Either the reason, I don’t care. I just know that it is best that Dinah avoids him as much as possible.

I guess in the future it will be best that Dinah doesn’t join them, especially when Aaron is in. They can’t predict his stormy moods let alone protect my girls. When face with his moods swing, they can only ask us to tolerate and be mindful in the future to watch out for his changes. Which I find it ridiculous, how an adult can expect kid to know his moods when they as his parents can’t even do so……..

Nonetheless, I know it is useless arguing with them, as their stands are deeply rooted. So the next alternatives will be avoidance…………….

Natasha 3rd Birthday

2009-08-27T16:40:00.007+08:00

Yesterday was Natasha’s 3 years old birthday. I took leave to spend time alone with her. I actually planned to take her to kidzworld at the zoo, but the weather wasn’t in our favor. I then have a few ideas in mind but none really worked. It was either the opening time or the price that was not ideal.

Eventually we went to ION Orchard and shopped. It’s an eye opening for her and she could go home for her nap. She is more fascinated with the computerized under water world then the shops itself.

We strolled briefly and went to Junction 8 for our lunch before heading home for her nap. I wanted to ensure she is well rested for the evening celebration with Sharon and Kenny. At her age, without sufficient rest they can get a bit uncooperative.

Thank god, I abandon my excursion planned as the weather was really bad in the afternoon.

In the evening 7.30pm, we met Sharon and Kenny for dinner at Swensen. After our dinner, we went to their newly renovated matrimonial flat (at Bishan too) for Natasha’s birthday celebration.

Their house is modern and simple with a touch of sophistication. The girls are very excited exploring every corner and rooms. Finally Kenny switched on the TV and allowed them to play with his games and also watching cartoon.

The most exciting moment was opening presents for the girls. It kind of sweets of Sharon to prepare presents for Dinah & Naomi. She is the only one whom I feel never ostracize Dinah and I.

We left the place around 10.30pm, taking into consideration that we have to work and study the next day. Overall I would say Natasha has an enjoyable day….

As for her grandparents, we celebrated on Saturday (22/08/09) at Swensen United Square. It seems to be a family tradition to have their birthday cakes at Swensen and especially United Square. On Sunday (23/08/09), their grandmother bought for them toys with Natasha having the privilege of an additional toy.

This year Natasha has a lot of Barbie dolls, as all of them gave her that or Barbie’s clothing as presents. I’m glad everyone make her birthday truly special……….

Show down

2009-08-25T11:26:00.002+08:00

Finally I received Aaron’s defense and counter claim on Friday (21/08/09). I actually don’t mind he put all the faults to me, and I don’t feel the need to resonate that caused the marriage to break down.

But I was forced to retaliate as his claims are simply too much. He changed the story around and accused me of breaking the family and that’s fine with me, but what he wanted are beyond my agreement.

He wanted the custody of Naomi and Natasha with reasonable access to me, equal division of the flats and/ assets, provide maintenance for them and bear his entire legal costs.

He is trying to take advantage of me, thus I was advised to retaliate his claims and defense. I will never give up their custody and for this reason I will fight him back.

Mt intention was never to wash all the dirty linens in the public and saved some face for him. Apparently he doesn’t appreciate, and tries to take over their custody. So over the weekend, I have to prepare my assignments as well as my side of the story in regard to his claims.

I presumed Aaron acted out of revenge or anger. He is too narrow-minded. Eventually we the judge will base on both our faults and grants the divorce. So what Aaron is doing now is just wasting our time. He already has the intention to divorce too just he wants to be in the good light.

Basically I’m fine with it. If feeding to Aaron’s ego of being right makes him feels good, then by all means. It’s doesn’t matter a lot to me from the way I see it. Whoever right or wrong doesn’t alter the fact that our marriage has broken down irrevocably, and pointing fingers at each other is just going to create more hostility in return will affect the children.

I believed if children are involved and the marriage has broken down, then we should try to settle this as amicable as possible for the benefits of them. Only the start of the divorce already there are so much arguing, then what about the subsequent stages. I thought we have been separated for so long and our anger should have cooled down significantly thus we should be more rationale.

Seems like Aaron has not, and he will not see our marriage breakdown from another angle…………..

Bridge Across my Sorrows

2009-08-25T10:51:00.001+08:00

I finished reading this book on Friday (21/08/09). It was about Christina Noble Foundation beginning.

The main character was Christina. She is the founder of the foundation and based in Vietnam.

The first half of the book described her childhood’s life and her journey to building the foundation from zero.

I was appalled with her childhood story. It was filled with unpleasant memory mostly. She came from Ireland and was very poor. Her father was a drunkard who drank away every penny he earned. Her mother was the home provider mainly, with the rarity of her father contributing to the household expenses.

Despite their poverty, her mother ensured that they all went to school and looked after the house. When she was 10 years old, her mother passed away, and their living conditions became worse. She became the mother to her 3 younger siblings, and tried to earn meager living doing whatever she could.

Their living conditions were so squalid that was beyond imagination. She was caught and sent to industrial girl school. When she reached 16 years old, she regained her freedom and set off to England in search for better life and hopefully to reunite her siblings.

Her decision to England came shortly after she was released from industrial school and got gang raped by 4 men. Later she became pregnant but forced to give up for adoption. In those days, illegitimate child was a disgrace. Ireland to her was a memory of heartache and despair.

In England, she met a guy and deceived by him. She ended up marrying him just to realize that she married a wife abuser. He would beat her up and abuse her for the slightest thing. He explicitly brought women home for merry making total disregard of her presences.

She tolerated with him for 14 years for the sake of their 3 children. During these times, she suffered mental breakdown and several miscarriages due to his abuses.

Finally she mustered the courage and ran away, and when she was settled down, she fought for the custody of the children. Eventually she won, and her new life began. She managed to financially provide for her 3 children through her catering business.

At the peak of her success, she closed down everything and went to Vietnam to fulfill her dream of decades ago.

Thus the foundation is founded based on her dream. She went to a foreign country with few hundreds pounds and slowly extended her networks. She got the official permission to start the foundation and seek donors to operate the centre.

At night, she walked around the streets to help as many children as she could. I was disgusted by those foreigners taking advantages of young children. They took advantages of their vulnerability and poverty, thus most of the little girls ended up as prostitutes.

They treated Vietnam as sex tourism where they could exploit the children. I guessed these exploitation will always perceive as long as they are poor countries and pervertic people………………..

G.I. Joe - Rise of the Cobra

2009-08-17T10:54:00.001+08:00

Yesterday afternoon went to watch G.I. Joe with my friends, and I felt bad as I’ve promised to watch with Wei Ching & Vincent.

Yesterday was an unplanned trip & the show too.

Anyway the storyline was alright, but the effects were much better than the storyline. A few parts were a bit of surprise. Not quite what I presumed it to be.

Still I believed it value for money. I shall not divulge too much of the show else not much of a surprises.

A brief summarize will be good against evil, and I strongly believe there will be part 2.

Ghost Girl

2009-08-14T14:18:00.001+08:00

I finished reading this book today. I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I did for the previous books by the same writer – Torey Hayden.

Since she works as a special educator, it’s natural that she will encounter children who need special attention and possibly abuse from family.

Her previous books were very captivating and clear, whereas this book was ambiguous.

This book talked about Jadie – an eight years old girl who never talked nor participated in class activity. She’s always hunched-backed but not due to medical issue, it’s as if she deliberately did so.

Torey took over this class in middle of the term, and it’s in a small town called Pecking. Her class consisted of 4 students all having problem integrating in main stream school, thus they needed a special educator who’s well known in this area.

Torey was very well trained in elective mutism, thus on her first day she managed to get Jadie to talk. Everyone was amazed by her capability.

Gradually Jadie grew fond of her, and revealed thing happened at home, but her details were imprecise. Torey was sure she suffered from sexual abuse, and reported the matter to the principal who alert the authority.

From there thing happened quickly, and Jadie and her sisters were removed from their parents, while investigation was underway.

The book did not indicate clearly the investigation findings, but one thing sure was Jadie and her sisters were placed permanently in foster home. Jadie blossomed into a fine young lady who has done well academically and walked upright instead. But her sister, Amber deteriorated and became drawn into her own world. Her youngest sister, Sapphire was too young to understand anything.

By her own choice, Jadie never visited her natural parents again. This story just wasn’t interesting enough to hold my attention for long. A lot of thing weren’t mention and I find it hard to believe certain thing……..

Public Enemies

2009-08-06T14:44:00.001+08:00

Monday (03/08/09), I and Wei Ching went to watch ‘Public Enemies’. The show featured 1930s of America.

It was a real story about the long arm of justice, with Johnny Depp acting as the robber who escaped prison twice. Christian Bale acts as the inspector whose task was to eradicate the bank robbery in Chicago.

I admired Johnny Depp acting not because of his good looking but rather his charisma. But I think he looked more like a ‘goody’ villain, I guessed he could be the inspector too….

The only thing I wouldn’t enjoy is the bloody scene. I’m not into bloodshed scene. It’s too ‘messy’.

Overall, I still enjoyed the show very much, mainly due to Johnny Depp……

After the show, we went to ION Orchard to take a look. The shopping complex sure looks fabulous, with all the major brands dotting the exteriors. We never went inside to walk as we were eating ice-cream; rather we sat outdoor and talked everything under the sun…..

It’s another mean of relaxing…..

Petition to MDIS

2009-08-03T17:01:00.001+08:00

Saturday (01/08/09), I finally did what I said previously. I got all their signatures, except minority who did not turn up, and decided to petition in regard to our Saturday lessons.

Since my previous attempt to negotiate failed, I decided lending the strength of the students might help. Lone ranger can’t achieve much, but mass power might be different story.

One of my classmates felt that it isn’t going to work, but he did sign. I told him I also don’t think much hope but at least I tried. You never try, you never know….

Instead of every Saturday grumbling over it, I rather do something to remedy the situation.

But honestly speaking, I strongly felt that MDIS is too rigid. There’s not much room for negotiation.

Hopefully, this method works, like I mentioned to them we need to achieve harmony for work, study & life.

Just Another Kid

2009-08-03T17:00:00.002+08:00

I finished reading this book on Saturday (01/08/09). It’s by the same author Torey Hayden. I guessed I’m hooked on reading her book. She’s a special educator for kids, thus she came across many emotional disturbance kids.

This book unlike One child or Tiger Child, which focused on Sheila, rather this book talked about 6 children – Leslie, Mariana, Geraldine, Shemona, Shamie & Dirkie. Her short stint there while waiting for her permanent visa to England.

Along the way she helped Leslie’s mum – Ladbrooke too. Ladbrooke was a doctor (she earned her doctorate in physics). She’s young, pretty and rich. Practically everyone is envious of her, but she aloof.

Slowly, Torey realized she too was like another kids in her class who met with a trouble childhood. Together Torey morally supported her and pulled her through her dark period but not totally.

Among the kids, Geraldine is the most disturbed kid. Exteriorly, she’s joyous, talkative and seems protective of her sister, Shemona. Reality, she controlled her sister, scared her into silence and self-destructive. She, Shemona & Shamie came from Northern Ireland, a country like Iraq now, plagued by religions conflicts.

Mariana was mainly sexual precocious otherwise she’s alright. Dirkie needed special education and Leslie main problem lied in family spoiling, and she’s autistic too.

I guessed my disappointment came from knowing Geraldine still has not found the inner peace she’s looking for……

Decapitated Infant

2009-07-29T13:45:00.000+08:00

I read from Today online regarding an article about a mum in Texas who killed her newborn son and ate his brain.

The baby (Scotty Wesley Buchholtz-Sanchez) was only 3 ½ weeks old yet he left the world. Apparently in the report, it mentioned that the mother was suffering from mental illness which might be post-natal depression.

When the police arrived at the scene, they were all somber. It wasn’t an ordinary crime scene that police would witness daily. They were looking at a decapitated baby, whose head was sever and body parts being chewed off. The mother was screaming and crying “I’ve killed my baby” with self-inflicted wounds on the chest and throat.

The mother claimed that the devil made her killed her baby. Either way, it would never bring alive the baby……

The report gave the accounts of the mother’s aunt and briefly her mental record. It did mention that she has been in and out of the psychiatric units prior to the baby’s death but actual illnesses unknown.

Whatever the reason, the baby was dead and I felt sad when I read the article. I presume post-natal depression is the real cause for the mother’s behavior and it’s terrifying to know how mental illnesses can cause. Pray that the mother will receive the necessary treatment that she needs. Berating her won’t be helpful as I believed she’s unaware of her action anyway the guilt conscience would plague her for the rest of her life and to me that is the worst punishment already……….

The Tiger's Child

2009-07-27T11:44:00.002+08:00

I finished reading this book on 24/07/09 (Friday). It’s a sequel to One Child.

After a separation of 7 years, Torey reconnected to Sheila. By now, she was a 14 years old teenager.

Gradually, Torey felt they have became distanced and tried to build the bond. She got Sheila to help in her clinic as helper.

Slowly, they picked up where they left from, but with lots of up and down in between.

Torey also found out the lives of Sheila during those 7 years. Together they embarked on a journey similar to previous except with more emotional upheaval as Sheila has grown up and no longer the 6 years old girl.

With Torey encouragement, Sheila continued her studies but she did not further to university, and started working in fast food restaurant.

The last time, Torey heard about her – Sheila wrote that she has her own apartment and was doing very well, except for her relationship with guys……

One Child

2009-07-23T12:59:00.001+08:00

I finished reading this book last night. The story was a record of the author experiences with this particular disturbing girl named Sheila.

The author specialized in special child education. She taught a class of special children either mentally handicapped or from exceptional environment.

One day her school principal announced that a 6 years old girl was going to be placed in her class temporarily till the state hospital has an opening for her. Few days before, she read on the newspaper that a 6 years old girl has tied a 3 years old boy to a tree and burned him alive. He wasn’t dead but in critical condition.

Her encounter with her was eventful initially. She was severely uncooperative and violent. She was almost at her wit end, and had never encountered such a violent and inwards child.

She called her previous teacher and all came back with negative comment either she a destructor or a little devil. She tried to have a chat with her father (cos her mother has abandoned her in the highways when she was 4 years old and taking along her younger brother) but he was never in (leaving Sheila alone at home).

She sympathized Sheila and knew it’s because of the hurt and abused she has received thus result in her behaviors. She was patience with her and gradually Sheila opened up.

Sheila slowly but steadily felt close to Torey (the author) and they developed a special kind of bond when bad new befell. There was an opening in the state hospital and Sheila was going in.

She opposed and with the help of her lawyer boyfriend, they won the case and she continued staying on.

Torey knew deep down that they were going to disband her class and hesitantly broke the new to Sheila who reacted strongly to it. But she managed to get her to accept it heartbrokenly, and found her a regular school (she was able to skip 2 grades due to her exceptional IQ. She has an IQ of 182.)

The initial part of the book talked about the hurt and behavior of Sheila, and how she missed and wondered why her mother has abandoned her and took her brother only.

The middle section focused on the transformation of Sheila and the discovery of her astonishing IQ. It also revealed the sexual abuse Sheila got from her Uncle Jerry that nearly ended her life.

The last part talk about the closure of the special class and her transferred to a regular class taught by Torey good friend, Sandy.

Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs

2009-07-20T11:31:00.002+08:00

Saturday (18/07/09), I brought Dinah and Naomi to watch Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs. I wanted to catch the 4pm show but it was fully sold so we had to settle for the 8:45pm. Anyway it’s near to our home.

The show was hilarious but uncomfortable, as we seated at the first 2nd rows (no choice). I seemed to enjoy more than the girls.

It’s a good show to de-stress and have a good laugh. Even though, they were too young to catch the jokes, but their eyes were still fixated on the screen.

I promised the girls to rent part 1 & 2 of the show………

Parent meeting with Naomi's teacher.......

2009-07-20T10:27:00.000+08:00

Saturday (18/07/09), I happened to know that Naomi’s teacher was at work so I dropped by the childcare and talked about the missed Parent meeting supposed to be on Thursday (16/07/09).

I was busy last week with my Term 1 exam which was on 13/07/09, 15/07/09 & 17/07/09, thus I was preoccupied that I forgot about the meeting.

Fortunately, the childcare isn’t as stringent as primary school. The teacher told me that Naomi academic is good. Chew Long, Jolyn and her are one of the best in class and she will always assign them to weaker group. Naomi will always be assign to new classmate as she has the charm to make them feel comfortable. Perhaps she’s friendly, I don’t know but the teacher mentioned that friends like being with her.

I’m glad to hear that nonetheless. I don’t have much worry regarding her academic but I expressed my concern that Chew Long and she are too close. The teacher told me that once Naomi doesn’t want to be his friend and he’s so heartbroken that he cried so pathetically. The teacher has to intervene and get Naomi to befriend him.

I find that very comical but at the same time amazed that they are that close. Our talk mainly circle about Naomi and her classmates, since there’s nothing much to talk regarding her works progress.

Apparently, Naomi is very well-liked by her peer, and she has shown leadership qualities, as I learned from her teacher (Teacher Queenie) that she would initiate role play and such. I was amazed.

I realized that my 3 girls are all unique in their own ways, but they all share one common thing that is vocal. They belong to the vocal group – expressive and extrovert.

Appalling behaviour........

2009-07-20T10:10:00.000+08:00

Yesterday after church service and lunch, we went to Marina Square indoor playground for the girls to enjoy.

The girls were playing joyfully, when I noticed Dinah seems moody. She came to me and complained about a girl I presumed 5 to 6 years old, scolded her and threatened to beat her till she died. I was appalled.

She showed me the girl before I could clarify the whole story; I saw her scolding and pointing at Dinah. I was furious. I scolded her. She was very rude and really threatened Dinah. She deliberately brought her older sister; I presumed would be P4 to P5 to scare Dinah.

She was behaving like a little tyrant, and when I scolded her she gave me an arrogant look like she doesn’t care. Her sister called her and they went to complain to their father. I was thinking if the father came to confront me, I would tell the father to discipline his daughters. Fancy at such young age, already threaten children; in the future is she going to carry out her threat.

Anyway her father did not confront us, and we left home. Perhaps the father saw that I wasn’t the only adult, as I’m with my in-laws as well, thus did not confront.

Nevertheless, I’m glad that none of them are injured by that girls, else I will hold the father accountable…….

Tell me why, Mummy

2009-07-16T11:30:00.002+08:00

I finished reading this book on Saturday (11/07/09). It was very inspirational as it talked about the author journey from childhood to adult and his experiences with his sexual abusive mother and subsequently physically abusive stepfather.

As far as he can remembered, his mother sexual abuse started when he was 4 years old. Since young, he has differentiated 2 side of his mother – the good mummy and the evil one. His mother was caring, concern and involved in his affair but once she started drinking her brandy, she became violent, aggressive and often went to his room and asked him to rub her “Minnie”.

Of course at 4 years old, he still too innocent to understand that this was actually wrong and he thought that it was a special time between them.

His parents divorced when he was 5 or 6 years old, prior to that his father was already not participative in his growing childhood, naturally he followed his mother.

Repetitive sexual abuse happened occasionally whenever his mother got drunk. Gradually, he realized that what they are doing isn’t right, but has no one to turn to, it doesn’t help that he doesn’t have much friends in school let alone someone who can confide in the abuse.

Growing towards adolescent, his mother remarried a old man 35 years her senior, and he treated him nicely initially, then all of a sudden became physically abusive. He has kept mum from his mother.

Eventually he retaliated, and the physical assaults stopped, but not his mother. She had grown to be more daring, and asked him to make love with her, which he rejected.

Feeling the urge to leave a confused home, he signed up for fire service at the age of 20 and moved out. In between, he decided he had enough of his mother drinking destruction, and they stayed apart for 4 years.

At the age of 27, he bought a book on memory and 8 months later he competed and won to rank 4th in the world. Eventually he beat an 18 years old boy to hold the Guinness World record. He tapped on his new found ability and moved towards the corporate world where he became successful.

At the same time, he met a wonderful divorced lady with 2 kids, but he got along very well with her kids, and through her he blurted out the long held secret he buried. With her encouragement, he decided to patch with his mother, but never did he brought up the issue on the sexual abuse.

1 year later, his mother died of alcoholic induced heart attack, and till the end, he never found the reason for her behaviors.

He has been through a lot and yet he’s managed to put his past away and forgives his mother. I find that it’s very encouraging of his act, and not many could do it.

Natasha 1st hair cut

2009-07-07T11:07:00.001+08:00

Finally Natasha’s hair has been cut. I brought her for her first haircut last evening. That’s not my intention, but her teacher suggested.

Apparently, this dear girl of mine refused to have her hair tied or pined up. She liked it to be ‘natural’. Regardless the numerous times her teacher attempted to tidy up her locks, she always has her mean of retaliating them.

The teachers worried that it might block her vision as her fringe was very long and covered half her face. Hinting the advice, I brought her to a salon. She was excited and very co-operative.

She loves her new look, and proud that she get the same hairstyle as me (not really but she feels so).

At least now she can go free without the hassle of tying up her hair………….

Ignorance is bliss

2009-07-07T10:58:00.001+08:00

Yesterday I went to visit Aaron. I was surprised to find him looking healthy. He doesn’t look sick to me. I felt cheated by his mum. I remembered his mother was saying how sick he was on Sunday.

I presumed he’s not physically sick rather his mentality. We had nothing much to talk about. I thought absence makes the heart grows fonder, apparently for us is absence makes the heart grows further. I felt we are drifting very far apart. The good new – we don’t quarrel, because we don’t even have anything to communicate.

I regretted my decision to visit him. Ignorance is bliss is very true in this case. Casually, I asked him of his health, and encouraged him to take a walk outside (he has been copping in his room or house for over a month already). He brushed aside, giving excuses that he needs to rest. A lazy person will gives a million excuses just to delay thing.

We fell silent and I had to crack my brain to continue the topic. Out of concern, I asked his company position of his long medical leave. He replied that they (his parents and him) have gone to Ministry of Manpower to claim his insurance. He’s very certain that his injury is work related, and I’m skeptical about it. I still believe that its partial work related.

Nevertheless, I continued our topic, and asked his plan for the future as I presumed that he will quit his job. I’m correct, as he doesn’t want to return to his job anymore, yet he has no planning for his future.

Actually he’s very contended with his life now (why shouldn’t he?), he has people serving him (foods and drinks are served right to his doorstep) and parents supporting (financially) him. He’s basically living on cloud nine; no way has he wanted to return to the reality.

I’m not surprised either as I have told my mum earlier that he will be worse than previous. The sickening part – he actually ask his father to drive his car (his father has his own too), and refused to allow me to use (ignoring the fact that we travel during the weekends and he also never provide much for us too). This proved how much trust we have of each other. Money can sees a person true color……

Once again we have nothing to talk, and I left shortly. I left with utter disappointment as well as disgust. He deliberately dragged not only his job but also the divorce hearing. At least, I know his strategy, thus I’m able to give firm instruction to my lawyer. This is going to be the last adjournment and I want it to be before National Day.

A lot of feeling crossed within me, thus I called Alex out for a chat. I’m fortunate to have friend staying near me and supportive friends as well. I felt a lot better after releasing my frustration and doing a little shopping. Shopping therapy to a certain extent is helpful.

From here, I know Aaron has never move forwards, but I have. We are 2 different world colliding with each other, and nothing good will comes out of it......But they don’t see that……….

2009-07-06T13:37:00.001+08:00

Last Tuesday (30/06/09), my friend sent me an email asking for donations to help a little girl called, Charmaine.

She’s a 4 years old girl who has been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer (Neuroblastoma Cancer), and currently the treatment available in Singapore has only a guarantee rate of 10 – 20%. In order to have a higher rate, she has to be treated in US, and even then the success rate is only 40 – 50% (but the upfront deposit is USD 350,000)

Her mother like me has her own blog and I went to take a look. She’s a single mum, whose husband has left her for her good friend when she was 7th month pregnant (Charmaine). I could imagine her world came crushing down. She started dating her ex-husband at the age of 17, and he’s the only guy she dated. I can’t empathize her suffering but only sympathize.

After reading her blog, I realized I’m very blessed as my daughters are healthy. Without hesitation, I agreed to buy the goodies bags priced at $10 (an organization is raising funds for her to be treated). Even though it was $10, but most of us (my colleagues) donated $20. A little contributed by everyone hopefully can accumulate to a lot.

Many might feel that USD 350,000 can save a lot of lives, but it’s regardless of the numbers of lives one can saves, it’s the 1 life we can save that matter.

I’m a mother myself, and for that I can understands her desperateness. Pray that god will bless her and helps to overcome their obstacles……….

Lend a helping hand

2009-07-06T11:33:00.002+08:00

Yesterday after church service, we went for lunch (as usual) with my in-laws. Out of concern, I asked about Aaron’s health.

My mother-in-law told me that his conditions worse than before surgery. The doctor has extended his MC till end of Jul. I wasn’t surprised but did not mention.

I have already expected his condition to worsen. Nowadays, he hardly moves, and to generate new nerve, he has to move. Beside his muscle will also stiffen, due to the lack of movement.

The main problem is that his parents don’t understand the logic. Their concerns I would say is irrelevant, and over-protective.

In certain way, they contribute to Aaron current condition. Instead of allowing Aaron to gradually regain his mobility, they are doing the reverse. The details I shall not go into it.

Initially, I wanted to ignore him, but I can’t. if I don’t know his affair, then there’s an excuse to be ignorance, but if I know yet I choose to close 1 eye, then it’s heartless.

Like I explain to my mum, if I could help strangers, why shouldn’t I help him? After all, he’s not a stranger to me. I don’t know how much I can help, but at least I should try.

Aaron biggest problem is he needs constant supervision, and pushing. Once you slack, he slacks even faster than you.

So after consideration, I think the first step should be to get him to move his muscle, and that means I have to visit him. I’m not anticipating him to be co-operative, but I still need to try. I must have faith and believe that god will help me…………

Relying on his parents won’t get him anywhere, because they always tell me that they have told him to exercise. But what’s the use of telling him, and not monitoring or even checking on him to ensure he do so………

I draw my conclusion that they are only good at saying but no action (as usual)…….I will be exhausted, as I have to look after the girls and prepare for my up-coming exams......It's not going to be easy........

NDP Rehearsal

2009-07-06T11:32:00.001+08:00

Saturday (04/07/09), my brother gave me 6 tickets for the NDP rehearsal. I went with the girls as well as my mother.

It was packed with people. We could hardly move. After some hovering and pushing, we got our goodies bags, and found seats.

The show wasn’t that attractive except the firework. Naomi enjoyed the most. Natasha dozed off at the most spectaculating moments (the firework). Dinah seems expressionless except during the marching part and the flying performance by the SAF.

Overall, I wouldn’t want to go for the actual NDP. I’m just so uncomfortable with people squeezing one another, and cramping under the hot sun just to watch performance.

Even getting home became a chore, an arduous journey, I would say. I still prefer to stay in the comfort of my home, and watch live telecast.

Eye Infection & Interesting Conversation

2009-07-03T11:14:00.001+08:00

This morning, Dinah woke up and gave me a shock. Her left eye was swollen. Poor girl, she can hardly open her left eye. I was battling whether to bring her to see doctor myself, in the end I decided to do so personally.

We did not wait long before it was our turn. The doctor examined her and said she has an eye infection again. Apparently, Dinah is very prompt to eye infection especially her left eye. The doctor gave her antibiotic cream for her infection, and we left. Thank god, it’s not contagious, and nothing to be worried of.

Shortly after, we left to the childcare. I have an agreement with Dinah, that she will wait at the childcare for Cora to come (Naomi & Natasha are still at home). While walking, I asked Dinah to rest a day at home, but she refused. She argued that it will be boring for her, and she wanted to be with her friends. I relented.

Despite my agreement to her going to school, but I’m still concerned, thus I called her form teacher, and informed her of Dinah’s condition. If her condition worsened, her form teacher will contact me immediately, and I asked her to excused Dinah if she is unable to concentrate. Since she’s relying on her right eye for focus, so it can be quite a burden for her the other eye.

Prayed that god’s hand is upon Dinah, and blessed her speedy recovery…………
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Wednesday (01/07/09) evening, while walking home with Naomi & Natasha, we had a little chat.

As usual, I asked Naomi her day in the childcare. All of a sudden, Naomi told me that her friend (Chew Long) said he doesn’t miss his parents. I was taken aback. I asked her why he doesn’t miss his parents. She replied that he misses her (Naomi). I found it hilarious but at the same time worrying. We continued our conversation, and I asked her why Chew Long misses you, and she replied was “I love you”. I wondered is this a cause for worry.

Nowadays kids really are amazing, and I told Naomi that loving your friends is good but no touchy allowed, as she’s a big girl now. She understood.

I don’t think I would want to make an issue out of it. As long as the line is cleared, I don’t wish to give Naomi unnecessary fear. I want to maintain our closeness and her willingness to share information with me.

Personally nothing is more blissful to have my girls growing healthy and strong, with lots of love shower upon them……………...

Diana Mosley

2009-07-01T14:08:00.001+08:00

Last Friday (26/06/09), I finished reading this book. I wouldn’t say I enjoyed a lot but it’s still pleasurable reading it.

This is actually a biography of Diana Mosley. It talked about her childhood to her affiliation to Hitler.

Beginning is all about her upbringing, she was fortunate to be born in a relatively well-to-do family where she enjoyed a luxury lifestyle. But she lacked of parents’ love. Her mother was a disciplinarian and her father nonchalant about them.

I would say she grew up in a traditional family where they hoped to have a boy (after many girls, her parents finally have a boy).

She grew up never attending school despite her family financial standing, and only her brother got the privileged.

She desperately wanted her freedom, thus at the age of 18, she agreed to marry Bryan Guinness. He came from an upper class, even higher than her family. Initially she was reluctance to get married but she knew the only way to be free from her parents would be marriage.

Bryan showered her with love and affection, and they had 2 sons (Jonathan & Desmond), but their marriage wasn’t meant to be lasting.

The tipping point came when Diana’s path crossed with Tom Mosley. He was married with 3 children, but he’s a womanizer. Both of them I would say committed adultery.

Diana was madly in love with him, and decided to divorce her husband which was something very uncommon during that period.

During this period, her younger sister Unity introduced her to Hitler’s political party. Through her sister, Diana cultivated a liking for the party and gradually both of them came to know Hitler personally and many of the high officials.

She even used her connection with Hitler to help Tom (her husband by now) in his political party (his fascist idea) in England.

WWII broke out, and Tom was targeted and locked away. Diana’s ex-father-in-law bearing the grudges for her divorce from his son took the opportunity and reported her connection to Germany. Eventually, she was locked up too (by now she had 2 sons with Tom).

Both of them were locked up during the war period and were released after the war, but they were not allowed to travel. All their travel documents had been confiscated. At least, they had freedom in their own country.

The later part talked about their re-building of life not really interesting, and her ideology of Hitler which doesn’t interest me much either.

Perhaps the only thing interesting was her sister commitment to Germany’s political group and another sister, Jessica commitment to Communist ideas. I was intrigued that political played such a major role in their relationship……..

Blessing in Disguise

2009-06-29T13:38:00.001+08:00

Friday (26/06/09), I woke up with body ache, and the worst thing was I’m down with urine tract infection and migraine.

I ended up consulting 2 doctors. All of the clinics were packed, so I managed to find 1 that wasn’t pack, but ended up waiting for an hour, as the doctor come in at 9.30am. I was wondering then why on earth you all state your opening as 8.30am if the doctor isn’t coming in at that time??????

Nevertheless, I waited (since it’s the shortest). After more than an hour of waiting, the doctor asked me to go for urine test, but I just passed out and the doctor remark wasn’t that nice either.

Coincidentally, something happened at home, and I had enough of waiting so I decided to switch another doctor (anyway too piss-off with the doctor).

From just 1 problem, I ended up with another and that was migraine. The doctor gave me quite a strong medication for my headache, as for my infection, he asked me to go pharmacy and buy over the counter medication.

But I ended up not resting despite taking the medication (the girls are constantly fighting, ended up having to switch on VCD for them, thus I’m able to rest a short while).

In the evening, I’m feeling better, and I managed to prepare dinner for the girls, and we finished the evening watching Cinderella III: A twist in time. We all enjoyed watching, even me……It brought back sweet memory of childhood…….The girls enjoyed being Cinderella and having the magic to change thing (imagination of course).

We went to bed talking non-stop about the show………….

Badminton with Ching

2009-06-29T13:37:00.000+08:00

Thursday (25/07/09), Weiching and I went for a game of badminton at Cheng San CC. It was fun, but tiring. It’s a proved that I haven’t been exercising enough.

She booked the court for an hour, but I was late so we only got to play for about 45 minutes. Seriously speaking, to play for 45 minutes was also amazing, as both of us were panting less than 30 minutes.

I presumed we were rather noisy as compared to our ‘neighbor’. They seem professional, as for us we were generating more noise than we played. I really enjoyed playing especially with like-behavior, and that’s where the fun begins………..

After our ‘match’, we went for dinner at AMK central. I don’t know which food centre we went, but there sure offered lot of varieties. I was so greedy that I ordered 2 bowls of desserts.

We stayed on for a while to chat, and then I accompanied her to Popular Bookshop to buy stationary, finally it was home sweet home time. After all, both of us need our beauty rest……..

We have arranged to meet again after my examination; this time round it’s my turn to go Jurong Point to meet her perhaps with Vincent as well. So long never meet him too………

Weird Temper

2009-06-22T10:32:00.001+08:00

Sunday (21/06/09), everything was normal. We went to church in the morning, but after service Aaron’s mother suddenly became infuriated with Cora (I suspect me too just that she can’t scold me).

All of a sudden, she scolded Cora, sternly informing her not to sit at the dinning table for meals. It was meant for her family, and sarcastically reminded her to water the plants daily.

I don’t know what trigger her mood swing but it does seem like Aaron. Now we know where Aaron constant mood swing comes from.

Her remarks hurt Cora to the extent when Cora was at my place, I could see that she was weeping. The most I could do was to offer words of comfort.

Later on we were speculating why her mood infatuates. We gave up eventually. I could only say they were weird. Fortunately, I made the decision to divorce Aaron, else I have to continue facing their uncertain moods swing, inconsiderate, lack of basic courtesy and most importantly constant interference not only in my marriage but as a whole my family and that means my children.

I strongly believe that yesterday message was extremely suitable for them, but I don’t think the message got into their mind.

Nevertheless, that’s none of my concern…………………

Pre-Father's Day Celebration

2009-06-22T10:27:00.003+08:00

Saturday (20/06/09), I had an early father’s day celebration with my family. It was supposed to celebrate for my brother’s birthday as well but he couldn’t make it. He had to stay in-camp till quite late.

We went to The Asian Kitchen (City Link) for dinner, and for desserts we had at Marvelous Cream. It was rush for me as I had lesson till 6.30pm but fortunately it was at Dhoby Ghaut.

Since it will be rushed for me to go home before meeting them, thus I asked my parents to help accompanied Cora and the girls to City Hall MRT.

Fortunately, my mum beforehand already asked my father not to order beers, as the beers can be quite costly in the restaurant so not worth it.

We did not stay long after meals and desserts as my mum’s hurt her ankle while on her way to meet me. I accompanied them to the bus-stop and we went to Marina Square for a little walk (Dinah constant pestering to find Winx Club DVD).

We headed home after a futile search of Dinah’s DVD, but we did a little window shopping………

I was tired when we reached home, after a whole day of rushing to different places but it was worthwhile. The girls were happy going out and we did celebrate father’s day after all……….

Shop for Father's Day gift

2009-06-22T10:22:00.001+08:00

Friday (19/06/09), unexpectedly I went out with Huijun. She called me when I was in the train heading home.

She asked me out to shop for father’s day gift. She explained that she was supposed to meet Yijiao for dinner but last minute she cancelled. I agreed since she always meets me near my place too.

Anyway, I will sure pass Orchard (I just got in at Raffles Place). So we arranged to meet at Orchard MRT.

We went to Takashimaya to shop for wallet. We shopped for more than an hour before she settled on Braun Buffel’s wallet. She actually wanted to buy Mont Blanc or Dunhill wallets but they were over her budget.

We were famished by the time she bought the wallet, so we went to Sushi Tei for meal (since I’ve craving). The restaurant was packed and we had to wait for half an hour before we got 2 seats.

The moment we seated, we quickly grabbed whatever sushi that fancied us from the conveyor belt. We did order some side dishes too.

As usual, we sat around till closing time, and then we headed home. I wanted to return her my share of the meal but she rejected.

Next time, it shall be my turn to give her a treat…………

Movie with Dinah & Naomi.....

2009-06-17T10:34:00.002+08:00

Yesterday evening went to watch movie with Dinah and Naomi. Dinah has been wishing to watch “Hannah Montana the movie” since last week.

Our intention was to watch it last week too but didn’t have the slot that I want. Finally yesterday there’s slot for 6.30pm.

I rushed from work so that I’m managed to reach J8 at 6pm. Excitedly, Dinah finally get to watch the movie of her choice.

The show was similar to High School Musical except the lead is focus on Hannah Montana, unlike High School Musical it focus is on group.

This show captured lot of young girls around Dinah’s age and young teenage girls. The show was all about singing, dancing and performing.

Definitely, not my cup of tea but Dinah’s taste. I would say Dinah enjoyed very much, as for Naomi she got restless halfway through the show. I guessed Naomi might be too young to appreciate and patience to last through 2 hours.

After the show ended, we intended to go Toastbox for light meal, but I decided to shop for lingerie since neither of us was hungry.

We ended our trip by going to Toastbox as mentioned earlier and headed home. It was late, and I’m dead beat but it was worth it.

At least I fulfilled what I have promised to Dinah. They were happy and my tiredness was worth it. Anyway, it’s not a frequent affair………………

"Terminator Salvation" with Ching

2009-06-15T11:28:00.002+08:00

Yesterday went to watch “Terminator Salvation” with Weiching at The Grand Cathy. It was a last minute plan.

Initially, I did arrange to meet her, but I thought Cora will be off so I cancel the meeting. But last minute, Cora off day has been changed, so I’m free yesterday. So I decided to go ahead with the meeting.

We met early afternoon, hoping to catch an early slot, as we wanted to meet up with Baohui and Baozhen for dinner, but left with the 7.05pm slot.

Disappointed, we have to cancel with them regarding the dinner. Since the show started in the evening, we have plenty of time left. We went to Ben & Jerry for some relaxation, and then we went to PS shopping.

It was great to meet up with her. I think it has been sometime since we met, due to our busy schedules. We talked almost everything under the sun. She told me about her internship at the community centre. It was interesting to know thing how they plan for an event. It’s something outsider would not know. So nice to joke and gossip plus the shopping factor, even though I never buy anything, but it feels good to just shop around, browsing through the pretty clothes.

We left PS around 5+ for dinner. She brought me to Paradiz centre for dinner. There’s a Japanese concept food court at either level 4 or 5. I still thought it was a restaurant, but it’s a food court.

All the stalls sell Japanese foods. Everything looks very tempting. We almost wanted to order all for sampling but we settled down for Ramen first. Thank god never order others, as we filled full after the ramen. The food court is rather idyllic great for appreciating our food and chat for a while.

Almost 7pm, we left to catch our show. The show was confusing towards the end, but nice to watch the hunks. In between, there were scenes that are a bit disgusting, I was covering my eyes and she’s covering her ears. When the show ended, I found her tearing. Indeed she cried easily.

Overall, the show was nice just too gross when the machines came out to exterminate human traces. Perhaps I’m too timid thus unable to tolerate all the shooting and killing………

Daughter of the killing field

2009-06-15T11:26:00.001+08:00

Friday (12/06/09), I’ve finished reading this book. I think I’ve read more or less about the story of Vietnam and Cambodia warfare.

This book is another heart-wrenching life of a little girl, named Aseri who has lost her parents during the Khmer Rouge period.

The story starts by building the life of ordinary citizen prior to that dark period. They shared a harmonious and peaceful period, but thing change when communist took over, and their concept of “year zero”.

Soon the soldiers started attacking civilians, and masses of execution became frequent. Slowly, the author must learn that – life is but a breath thinking.

At the age of presumably 4 years old, the soldiers killed her father then mother, and all of a sudden she was left an orphaned.

The soldiers for whatever reason set her and her 4 brothers free. From there, they travelled from relatives to relatives, finally settling with their maternal grandparents.

Daily, their lives were filled with mundane chores, and gradually their grandmother decided to escape poverty and hardship for the sake of her grandchildren.

They travelled through a tedious and dangerous journey to Thailand refugees’ camps. Once they reached the camp, her grandmother wrote fervently to her sons in France and US to get them to sponsor all of them to either one of the country.

They joyfully agreed. After 4 years of living in extreme conditions, they finally left to US for a better future.

Fortunately, in US there’s a Christian organization that helped funded their expenses and slowly they re-built their lives.

The author eventually returned to Cambodia and remained there as citizen to utilize her knowledge, education for the future of the country.

Even though, Cambodia gave her many bad memory, but it was there she has the best too, and what done can’t be undone.

Personally, it took a lot of courage to return to the country that has made you orphaned. Imagine having to interview the leaders who gave down orders for the mass execution of the commoners, and witnessing the brutality of the soldiers’ torture. One can picture her courage and her patriotism for her country betterment. I must say our lives has been very bliss and blessed indeed………….

Interesting chat

2009-06-12T09:52:00.000+08:00

Yesterday was a busy day; morning went for discussion, in the evening I meet up with Huijun.

We were supposed to meet on Tuesday, but she’s busy, thus we changed it to Thursday. She’s trying to show her concern, since she knows I’m going through some rough patch with Aaron. She’s here to show me her support.

It does help to have a good chat with girls. It somehow elevates my mood. I did go into detail regarding my decision, but not for very long since she knows most of it by now. I just need to fill in that last bit.

Later we mainly chat about guy preferences (mainly mine), and a lot of our little secrets. I joked a lot to her and in between we giggled a lot whenever I mentioned my preferences.

She has found her preference, but for me not in the moos yet. I did tell her that I’m not in the mood now but don’t mean forever. Since we were already in this topic might as well go further.

She asked me for my preference, and I indicate that height and size are my important factor. As I have dated a few shorter guy as well as tall guy, I would say I’m more incline to tall guy and also a healthy built.

Even though, there’s this saying that “Don’t judge a person by their appearances”, but one can’t diffuse that 1st impression doesn’t count.

I believe everyone has their preferred “people” in mind, and same goes for me…………

We joked a lot on my preference, and after a good laugh and chat I did feel miraculously better……

Discussion with lawyer - 1st hearing

2009-06-12T09:49:00.001+08:00

Yesterday morning, I’ve an appointment with my lawyer for a pre-hearing briefing. It was to brief me on the procedures and what might happen.

He told me that Aaron’s lawyer sent a letter to request for an adjournment, so he needs to know my position.

Naturally, I don’t agree. I told my lawyer that this case has been dragging very long, and I find it meaningless to continue dragging. He agreed too.

So after some discussions, we decided to still go ahead with 16th June 2009 court hearing, but I need not be present. He predicted that they will ask directly from the judge since I refused to accede to their request.

Since it’s our 1st hearing, the judge will usually grant their request. But he said that it’s doesn’t mean that the case is not progressing. Even though, the judge allows adjournment but in between they will be required to file their defense, in another way the case is progressing.

I’ve expected them to request for adjournment so when the lawyer told me, I was mentally prepared. Base on my understanding of them, they would resort to these.

Firstly, Aaron is still recuperating, thus he’s not in “shape” to handle such big blow. Secondly, Aaron needs to provide his side of defense and I don’t even think they told him yet.

We have a relatively short discussion and I left for work hurriedly (I took time-off just to attend to this).

Somehow I have a very mixture of feeling. My heart felt lighten knowing that there’s some indication in my case, but at the same time I felt sad knowing my marriage soon-to-be over.

I will be sad and disappointed; after all we have been married for 5 years. Not a long time, but definitely not short either, and if no love for him, I wouldn’t even feel sad. Emotionally, I’m reluctant to let go, but logically, I’m aware of our problems, despite my effort in minimizing our conflicts, it just doesn’t work. It’s takes 2 hands to claps and I can’t be always giving in to him like his parent; that’s unhealthy. Besides, I can’t tolerate any longer with his parents’ interference in our marriage as well as their over-protectiveness of Aaron.

Time will heal the wound, and life still carry on with or without him………………..