Caitlin's 4th Birthday

Fried Sotong

 

This is one of my signature dish. The kids love it. I learn how to cook this from the internet. I'm not much of a cook and was pleasantly surprised when it turned out well on my first attempt. Since then, I cooked it several times. It still amases me what I can pick up from the internet. So many recipes and so little time. Culinary adventures - a good way to de-stress and show your loved ones that you care enough to cook up a storm for them.   

  

July to August 2012 in Photos

We have been having a blast. Most of our weekends are dedicated to the kids where they do lots of activities both in and out doors and lots of family time as well. They are growing fast and learning to be more independent. Over the last two months both Ryan and Caitlin have been given more responsibilities and this requires a lot of patience on the adult and persuasion.

They still fights over the silliest of things and they will also help each other out. It's good to see them growing together and learn how to tolerate each other. I am not sure how their relationship will be when they grow up. If instill from young, my hope is that they will be close to each other. And we the parent shall lead the way.  

Fever, Flu and Cough

Occasionally, Catlin will catch the flu bug and besides having fever, she will also develop cough before fully recover. Since she's our second child, we are already fully aware of the types of medication needed and more importantly, which medication works for them. If Ryan have fever, ibuprofen works better for him than paracetamol.

For Caitlin, her medication will be paracetomal for fever; piriton for her flu and bena expectorant for cough. No need antibiotic this time around and will plenty of rest, she will be ok soon. 

Caitlin's Doodles

Some of Caitlin's doodles - she just love playing with colours.
Just in case you are wondering - the potatoes heads are actually Mr Sun (with a makeover!) shinning ever so brightly.

Iron Kid Champ

Ryan took part (I think it's his 3 outing) and I was pleasantly surprised that he emerged as the overall champion. He contributed it to his high score for bowling and that his team came in either 1st or 2nd for other events.

He's thrilled to bits. Looking at this photo makes me realised how grown up he has become. A few more years before the rebellious teenage years kicks on.

Time to Reflect

It's good to look back
Both the good and the bad
And try to understand
Why we are wired like that

It's not to find fault
But to shed light
Perhaps to make things right
And to untangle the internal fights

What has happened cannot be changed
But the future has not been paint
Take them in and turn them around
For it's you who decide whether it's up or down

Whitney Houston (1963-2012)

I can't sing.
It's not my gift.
If I could, I would want to sing just like you.
Thank you for sharing your gift.
Your songs accompanied me through my growing up years and listening to them evoke many happy, priceless memories.
You left for a better place and is now safe in our heavenly father's arm.
RIP Whitney. Your music will live on and so will you .... in our hearts.

Outing @ TTDI

Bake a Cake and Roast a Chicken

It was a day of fun, fun, fun. We decided to cook something for Aunt Cleo's birthday. The kids did a simple baking project while I attempted to roast a chicken for the first time. The cake turned out ok - very little can go wrong with pre-mix <> while my chicken did not really look fabulous, it tasted ok; with just the right amout of salt. 

I am now itching for more simple baking projects with the kids since they enjoyed the experience. Making cookies did come to mind - so is making ginger bread and muffins. I am also itching to try out new recipies myself. Roast chicken is the first and finger crossed for many, many more new adventures. Life is good and am enjoying it.

HAPPY CNY 2012

It was one celebration after another and I am so NOT complaining. Cherishing all the good time with family. We did the norm, eating, visiting relatives, eating, playing pop-pop, watching TV, eating, going back to hometown and more eating in betweens. We made the effort for the kids and as a result, all my cloths are now tight and I have to make extra effort to shed the extra kilos. Still not complaining though as I really enjoyed my holidays. Happy New Year and the may the year of the dragon fire up our passions and bring us good health and abundance wealth!!!. 

Company Trip to Pangkor Island

Recently, I went to a company trip to Pangkor Island (3 days, 2 nights). Pangkor Island is not new to me and I look forward to the trip to chill with my colleagues :). I have been to that Island a few times before this, mostly with family members. I practically ate and slept on this trip. Came back to KL renewed and recharged and ready for the next mission. 

Life starts at 40.......

I have reached 40 a few days ago !! There were a few celebrations, lots of wishes and plenty of food. How does it feel to be 40? Well, age is catching up and I may already have spent half my life (assuming that I will live until 80). To be frank, there is some sense of urgency...being 40. Seems like there's more that I wanted to do and I may never get to do it if I keep at this pace. I am not sure how many people will feel that way but that is how I feel. Therefore, the phrase life starts at 40 is indeed very true (at least for me). I somehow have the renew energy to keep on chasing my dreams. Also it helps that my birthday is so early in the year since it's a brand new year with my brand new resolutions. So many things to learn, to do and accomplish !!! Let's get going :)

Bye Bye 2011 and it's full of good memories

2011 was a great year .....it started out very stressful especially towards Q3 and all went well. Towards the end of hte year we did a lot of spring cleaning, then there was that family trip to Penang and Christmas before we usher in the new year....a brand new year. Chinese New Year is exceptional early in 2012 and even before the year is out, we are already busy planning for another major celebration. Life is good and may 2012 bring us more happiness.