4th Birthday

This was our plan for Jerilyn's birthday:

26th - Dinner at Secret Reciple because it has everything we want - scrumptious food, cake and ice-cream.

27th - Drive up to Genting Highlands and spend 2 nights on the hill. The highlights would be the Theme Park of course. But this time, it would be more fun as Jesslyn is old enough to know what is going on around her. The last time we went, she only joined the rides but seemed oblivious to them. I can imagine how they will scream and laugh this time. Even riding on sloopy and winding roads in our car give them the thrill.

29th - Return to Ipoh and prepare for CNY.

This was what happened:

26th night - Dinner at Ye'olde English because Secret Recipe doesn't offer any main courses that Jerilyn likes. However, our experience at Ye'olde English was a disappointment AGAIN. Yup. Made the same mistake.

27th - Jerilyn went to school. Daddy went to work for more than 12hours and Mummy attended a meeting in the college. We cut the cake in the evening and had dinner with Gong Gong.

28th - Got up at 8am and got ready. Eve

Everyone was ready except dear Daddy. He had to prepare an urgent report. The 3 of us waited patiently. At 9am, he received a call from his mother saying that his SIL passed away. Daddy wanted to cancel the trip but I persuaded him to go. We can drive down to JB after our trip to Genting. He relented. Phew! So, we packed for another day. Started our journey at 10am. Reached there at 2pm. It was one of the coldest experience there. So cold that none of us had our shower that day. The theme park outdoor was closed because of the mist. We paid RM88 for indoor. Went on a couple of train-like rides, carousel, ferris-wheel and the gondola. Even Jerilyn said "This train is so slow." This was how much fun we had. :-) Nevertheless, the kids are happy with the outing.

29th - Headed down to JB and returned to Ipoh the next day. These 2 days alone, we spent > 8hours in the car, ONE way. Thank god the kids did not give me any problems. The kids were at their sweetest in JB and got plenty of compliments from relatives. Another Phew!

Home Sweet Home alas, I asked Jerilyn which she prefers, hotel or home. She answered hotel. Why? Because there is no air-cond downstairs at home. Hmm....

Meaningful Remarks

The past few weeks have been a busy period although it's also my semester break. Looking back, I wonder what have I achieved after 4 weeks of break. Anyway, there is nothing worth noting down except for a few quotations I wish to remember. For those who follow FB will find this familiar:

I came back from a new hairstyle and this was what they have to say: Jerilyn "Mummy, you look like a woman. You better stay at home and don't go out. People will laugh at you." Jesslyn "Why is your hair so messy, mummy?" The photo attached was taken a day after I permed my hair. It isn't so bad, is it?

But when Daddy came home with a new haircut, it was a different story. Jerilyn "Wah! Look at the handsome boy! The handsome boy is back."

At the petrol station, Daddy took a phone call and Jerilyn said to him "Daddy, you naughty boy." After a while, "You naughty handsome boy."

Other than that, Jerilyn criticised her teacher twice for 'bad' handwriting. Once, she claimed that '2' looks like '6'. Another time, she claimed the 'LY' in her name looks like 'M'.

My dad told me about his conversation with Jerilyn. It sounds something like this:
Jerilyn: I want to go home to see Mummy.
Gong2: Mummy is at school.
Jerilyn: No. Mummy is not at school. She is not young anymore. She is working. She is an adult.
At home, she took the broom and swept from the masterbedroom, down the stairs and into the dustpan. She told my dad this: Gong2, I am so clever. I sweep the floor because I make Mummy happy.

The best so far is this: "Eh? Why is your UGLY face so PRETTY?" said Jesslyn to Jerilyn.

Weaning off the Pacifier

I have long wanted to wean Jesslyn off the pacifier but it seems more difficult this time because I don't want to disrupt Jerilyn and Hubby's beauty sleep. So, I delayed and delayed. She is 25 months now. Jerilyn was weaned off the pacifier when she was 19months. We didn't have proper sleep for 2 nights.
With Jesslyn, I told myself that I must wean her off during this semester break while I am on holiday. There is no better time than this when Hubby is away on a business trip. Yesterday night, I told her there is no 'chut chut' (as we call it). Surprisingly, she only grumbled "I want chut chut. I want chut chut." a couple of times and twisted and turned for less than 5minutes before she dozed off. It was too easy. :p Why didn't I stop giving her earlier?

Subsequent Schooling Days

A week has passed since Jerilyn started schooling. The first 2 days was fine. No tears. She was jolly about it. In fact, she was also advising her sister this: When you go to school, don't cry ok? I also didn't cry. She boasted that a girl cried and she didn't.
However, on the 3rd night, she started to lose control of herself and lamented that she didn't want bathing in the school, didn't want eating and blah blah blah. She didn't want to study at school but at home. There was no tantrums but sadness in her voice. She pleaded the whole night to stop schooling. When asked why, she came up with stories like 'A girl bullied her' (this is actually Daddy's fault for asking "Did anyone bully you?") and 'The teacher bullied her'.
The next morning, she was whining as expected. I was afraid that she would cause problems for my dad(1st time for him) so I asked Daddy to be late for work to send Jerilyn on that particular day. I, on the other hand, must leave home early for invigilation duty on that day. That night, I made 2 things clear to her:

1. She DOESN'T have to go to school during the weekends
2. Whether she cries or not, she still have to attend classes. No point being unhappy

With these, reality sets in. However, when we talked to her about school, she didn't like to touch the subject. She ignored us or replied "Don't talk about it." She looked gloomy when the subject popped up.
After a long weekend, she whined a bit on Monday. Maybe because she was jolted up from her snooze.
Nevertheless, I am proud she hasn't made a scene in kindy so far. Even though she whines, it's so soft that Jesslyn never gets a rude awakening.

First Day at School

I have always been reluctant to send my kids to kindy. So, when it is ripe for Jerilyn to attend school, it is a big step for me. If it wasn't because of her enthusiasm about school and lack of manpower in baby-sitting the kids, I might delay another year before she attends kindy.

There are 3 kindies around where I live for our convenience and I chose the one which is most sought after. I personally prefer small groups to big groups but the other kindy was a big disappointment.

Hubby and I have been very anxious about her first day even though we know she could handle herself fine and would create a commotion at school. For the past whole month, we prepared her for school by telling her what's going to happen in school and what she needs to do if she requires help. She is very optimistic about school. She calls me 'Teacher' at home. Yesterday, she told me not to stay at the school but to go to work, come home and change my clothes before I fetch her from school. I was relieved to hear that.

We called it a night earlier yesterday but only managed to dozed off at the usual hour (>11.00pm). I intended to wake up at 740am but when morning comes, what woke me up was my dad's call to ask if he needs to look after Jesslyn. The call was at 8.00am. My alarm didn't sound. I jolted Jerilyn. It didnt take me long to wake her up. Her only complaint was she had no energy to walk. So, I had to carry her from room to toilet etc... The moment she was dressed in her uniform and VOILA!!! She changed into another person. From a sleepy, energyless kid into a energetic one. I prepared milk in a bottle for her to drink in the car. She said "Dont bring this bottle to school. Shame shame. Drink this at home. Nobody knows. Take the tumbler to school." OK..... Fine. I never thought she remembers our advice. I took a few photos of her and sent her to school at 8.20am.

At school, I didn't have the chance to go into the building. The teacher said "Ok, Mummy. We will take it from here." She led Jerilyn into the house. I began to walk out but I turned around and saw that she was looking at me too as she was being led away. We didn't say anything to each other. Not even Goodbye. I was told not to bid farewell or things will turn bad. I held my tear 'til I reached the car.

Back home, I felt empty. Too free without her. I facebooked and spent the time with Jesslyn. The time was moving slower than normal. When the clock struck 11.00am. I went straight to the kindy and watched her over cctv. There were 2-3 parents with the same intention. A teacher was explaining to her while writing. Jerilyn had her palm on her forehead, fidgeting and scratching her head as if the teacher was teaching Astronomy. This sight is most familiar to me when she lose interest and becomes restless. OMG! Will she want to go to school again tomorrow? Anyway, I left and returned again at 1.00pm.

In the car, here are some of the things I get:

Did you tell teacher when you want to shee2? What did you say? Yes teacher. My guess is the teacher might have asked them, thus this reply.

What have you learnt? ABC

Have you taken lunch? I eat rice. Then, we go swimming(bathe) and brush our teeth.

Do you want to go to school? Yes

and the list goes on.

At home, she is her old self. It looks like I have nothing to worry about tomorrow.

Goodbye 2010, Welcome 2011

As 2010 is coming to an end, I begin to reflect on what 2010 has been for me. Overall, I have mixed feelings towards this year. I have had my worst and best moments.
The beginning of the year had been the most stressful and distressing period of my life. Then, the period of self-pity, soul-searching and reflecting my life. Now, almost a year later, I have accepted the fact that 'what has to go, has to go'. There is just no turning back. Self-pity is self-destruction. There are many more unfortunate people out there. I began to understand this after reading news about deaths of youths, esp my own student. I also heard stories from students who had lost their parents at a young age of 4 and another 2 lost their parents too this year.
As compared to them, I had 33 years with my mum. It was not enough but again, I have to let go.
The kids still often talks of their Po-Po especially Jerilyn. Out of nowhere, she will ask questions like:

• Do you love Po2?
• Why is Po2 in the church?
• Who bought this? Is it Po2?

So, that was my worst moment. My best moments are definitely related to the children.
Jerilyn @ 4yo,

• she is more mature, understanding and caring. She gives in to her sister to avoid getting ear-splitting screams. She 'saved' her sister by pulling her back when she saw me in the car while they were playing the compound (my dad was in the house). When I scold Jesslyn, Jerilyn will stand up for her "Mummy don't scold her. Next time, I don't want you. Mei2, don't cry."
• she can read (I presume > 400words)

Jesslyn @ 2yo , the greatest development should be these:

• from baby-talk to a little conversationalist. Recently, she likes to play pretend call "Hello Daddy? Jie2 finish the papaya. Buy burger for me. Huh? Huh? Thank you Daddy. Thank you Daddy. Byee.." She can explain her actions/choices "I am scared of the clown. That's why I cry." "I don't want (this dress). It's too tight." "I want to boo-boo. I have stomachache."
• from diaper dependent to 100% toilet trained

I have put down a short list of resolutions and to-do list for 2011. I hope to achieve them as I have achieved my 2010 list. Welcome 2011!!!

Jesslyn @ 2yo

Jesslyn has just turned 2 on the 8th December. There wasnt any party except for a quiet dinner at Folie Folie on the night before and a cake on the actual date.

2 short years have passed and she is still very much the baby I held in my arms 2 years back. Here are some of the things she could do/say:

• Talks very well and uses long sentences. Just today, sis was disturbing, she scolded "Hey, dont disturb me. I am doing my work." (She was scriblling on Jie2's book).
• She sings very well. She sees a kettle in a book and she starts "Polly put the kettle on... " While her hands are at work, she entertains herself by singing. She is also flexible in changing the lyrics. For example, the song 'I see the moon and the moon sees me', she goes "I see Gong Gong, I see Mummy..."
• Potty-trained. Must add that accidents still happen. With Jerilyn, we were braver by letting her go diaper-free during the nights but with Jesslyn, we are more cautious.
• Jumps and climbs.
• Other than Wh- Questions, she also uses "Can" types of questions - "Can I go down?", "Can I have water?"
• Can recite all the letters in the alphabet and numbers up to 20.

Some of the things she still needs guidance are:

• recognising letters in the alphabet - she particularly likes 'J'. Show her any letter, she says 'J'
• recognising numbers
• confused with certain animals

Quotations

Meant to be posted 2 months ago but something held me back:

• While I was driving down a slope speedily, Jesslyn exclaimed "Be careful! Mummy.... Be careful! Mummy..."
• While shopping on 1 particular day, Jesslyn was being grumpy. Daddy scolded her twice and for both times, she sang to herself after being scolded.While waiting to pay at the cashier, Jesslyn held out her hand and said "Give me some money."
• Seeing angry/sad expressions on people, Jesslyn would ask "Why she(always she) so sad?" or "Why she cry?"
• When Jesslyn was proud of her sis, she showed me a puzzle "There.... Jie2 fix this. Jie so clever."
• When it irritates Jesslyn "Hey, dont sit here." "Hey, stop playing." "Hey, don't shout."
• When she is persistent "Mummy, sit here" Nobody answers. "Mummy, sit here!!" Silent. "I saaidd SIT HEREee!!"
• Jesslyn uses 'Today', 'Yesterday' in her sentences but it's not always used correctly.
• Looking at a mini poster of S.H.E.(the Taiwan group), Jerilyn said there are 2 girls. I asked "Are you sure? How many girls are there?" She repeated "2 girls." "What about this 1?" "It's a boy."(Referring to the 'tomboy')
• Jerilyn talks to objects and insects:
• to an insect "You go away. I don't want you. I will beat you. Go away."
• to an object "Don't fall down. You stay there. Be good."
  

Getting Ready for School

I occasionally buy workbooks for Jerilyn to practise writing. However, her interest lasts as long as the smell of a new book. After writing and scribbling few pages, her interest fades and the book has to be shelved for at least a week before one day, she happens to spot it from the shelf and starts scribbling again. This is so except for the 2 books which I bought about 2 weeks ago.
The moment I bought the books, she has been doing the exercises non-stop. She is so engrossed with the exercises that she spends 2-3 hours each night on the exercises. On the first night, she didnt even have breaks in between. I was the one who had to stop her as my eyes were already drooping. When it is time for bed, she insists on taking the books with her into the bedroom and won't stop writing 'til we turn off the lights. She is so into it that right after waking up from her afternoon naps, she says "I go down to do my work, ok?" There was once she immediately sat and started doing the exercises the moment we came home from shopping.
The 2 books are published in Singapore. I have a few books of my own which were bought in Singarpore many years back and indeed, there are still one of my favourites. These 2 books are as appealing to my daughter as those books to me. In short, Singapore published books have better quality thus more appealing to readers?
It seems like she is preparing for school. She always says that she is attending school (soon) and calls me 'Teacher' while she is my student. After each exercise, she wants a star to be given. She thanks me very loudly with full sincerity. When she makes mistakes and doesnt get a star from me, she sulks.
Wondering if most children go through this stage where they show extreme enthusiasm in studying and schooling.

Quiet yet Eventful

Some of you must be wondering where have I been for the past few weeks. No blogs, No Facebooking. Have been as quiet as a mouse on the cyberspace.
Though quiet here, my life has actually been quite busy and eventful. There have been numerous decisions to make in the past month. Firstly, I came across AirAsia's promotion to Australia and was tempted to grasp the cheap air tickets. I finally did after much persuasion from my sis.
Next, I had to decide if I needed to change my car as my hubby complained about the poor condition of my Saga. During the process, we narrowed down to Matrix and Kenari. After 2 weeks, we have decided to go for Kenari as there have only been negative comments for Matrix. I don't want to take the risk.
Other than that, I was also burdened with the decision of where to send Jerilyn for kindergarten. There are two potential kindergartens in my area. 1 has enrolment of 100+ and the other has only 10 kids. I personally prefer small groups to large groups but upon visiting the less populated kindy, I understand why the other is over populated. To me, the main problem is impression. The impression the teachers here gave was unprofessional. Both the teachers I met have long hair and both just let their hair loose. It's alright if they look tidy but sadly, that's not the case. The teacher who entertained me spoke terrible English. It was very Manglish. Moreover, I doubt this kindy has a proper system as overall, there are only 10 kids from all ages.
Last year, this time, we took my mum to Meru Valley Golf and Country Club to check out the plaece. After procrastinating for a year , we had finally taken the trouble to join the club. One of the reasons we join this club is to avoid the congestion in a public pool.
We also booked 2 nights at Resorts Hotel, Genting Highlands in conjunction with Jerilyn's birthday upon coming across another promotion for Genting Club members.
The only mission we have not accomplished is going to Singapore. It's not for leisure but business. However, there are too many activities and going-ons now. I need a break. Need to save some $$ too.

Mozilla vs Explorer

I usually use Explorer when I suft the net. However due to the high recommendation for Mozilla, I sometimes turn to it. It has its advantages over Internet Explorer. What I find peculiar is when I browse my blog, the layout is different from what I did in Explorer. Why? Why? Why?

What has Jerilyn been doing?

One of the earliest word she learnt to write

Mummy asked "What's this?"

Jerilyn answered "Jo-ann."

Sometimes, Jerilyn may spell and write from right -> left.

As for numbers, if its '23', she says 'Thirty two'

At 3y9m old, Jerilyn could complete this 48pcs puzzle in a breeze without help. This photo is taken by her to show off her achievement.

I have actually kept this in the cupboard for a few months because these naughty dinasours(as Jerilyn claim) tend to throw the pcs around and I have to find the missing pcs each time.

I took it out 1 fine day as hidden, old toys are like new toys. The 1st time, I helped her. The 2nd time, she took me by surprise by showing the complete set in less than 15mins.

Kuala Lumpur Trip

With the proliferation of modern modes of transportation and the affordable air rates, people in this century are travelling much more than the last. Travelling across the globe is not only for business but leisure is in the list of the majority now.

No. I have not been travelling across the globe. However, I have my own share of travelling and adventures and during the last Deepavali, we went to Kuala Lumpur.

I was excited about the trip as I love travelling to the city. I started planning and packing a few days before the trip. However, I am one of those who like to pack the minimum and prefer to buy when the need arises. Thus, I only packed 1 set of pyjamas and 1 dress in case 1 of the kids dirty their clothes. I brought the lightest clothes for myself. Hubby was the 1 with enough clothes to change for 2 days.

Another reason for the light luggage is because we planned to travel using the public transport. Daddy was lazy to drive and I like the idea of the kids experiencing the new electric train. We had a smooth journey on it which can speed up to 140+km/h.

Our journey started at 11.15am. Surprisingly, the train was punctual. The journey from Ipoh railway station to KL Central took 2hours. From KL Central, we took the lrt and a taxi to reach our destination, which is the Cititel Hotel at Midvalley Megamall. For RM200++ a night, I was quite disappointed with the hotel room. Anyway, I don't want to dwell into it. Let's move on.

After dropping our luggage, we headed for KLCC. Spent 6 hours shopping and visiting the Aquaria. Towards the end of the day, all of us looked like we came back from hell. We were back to our hotel room at 9pm, took our much needed shower and had a scrumptious dinner at Dragon-i, which was right at the lobby. From hell to heaven ... relaxing comfortably while having juicy steamed dumplings(its famous delicacy). I am not into shooting photos of food, so no photos to share.

We spent the next day in The Gardens & Midvalley Megamall. Did some shopping at Isetan and Metrojaya. To enjoy the massice discounts, I applied 2 membership cards for the past 2 days. We took some great pics of the kids. This time around, it isnt only 'Peace' sign from Jerilyn as you can see from the photos. There are more in Facebook.

In short, travelling with 2 young kids is definitely a challenge and physically demanding. Nevertheless, it wont stop us from travelling together. Friends have always asked "You bring your kids along (when you travel/shop)?" or suggested "Leave your kids with your parents while you go shopping/holidaying." The idea is absurd. I just couldn't bring myself to leaving the precious ones behind while I have a good time elsewhere. I know....it's crazy but it's how I feel.

Do boys get intimated by girls?

Do boys get intimidated by girls? Or is it just natural that boys dont like to play with girls?
Jerilyn has always been a tough girl and prefers to play with boys than girls. She loves tools more than dolls. She loves active activities more than passive ones. She watches the boys play computer games and makes sound effects just like the boys. I notice that other girls dont watching boys playing pc games.
However, not many boys welcome her. They shove her away when she comes near. They think that she is invading their privacy. They claim that she is loud. Probably, they dont like it when a girl makes better sound effects for example a car roar or gunfire than they do.
How much can you tolerate your kid being bullied? Me, it's almost Zero. It's ok if they fight over space or toys but if other kids say things like "Go away." or "Dont touch this." and my kids look helpless, I will defend them.

Terrible Twos

Kids change and learn everyday, sometimes at a slower speed, other times they experience growth spurt. Just last week, I was saying that Jesslyn had added Why questions in her dictionary. Now, she is bombarding us with endless Why questions. Here are some examples I remember:
Mummy, what are you doing? I am cutting the oranges.
Why are you cutting? For you to eat.
Why for you to eat? because you like orange.
Why you like orange? ???

Mummy, where's the beetle? I have thrown it away.
Why you throw it away? Because it's dead.
Why is it dead? Because I killed it.
Why you kill it? because it's a nuisance.

Mei2, don't stand on the stairs like that.
Why dont stand? Because it is dangerous.
Why is it dangerous? Because you may fall.
Why you may fall? Because if you are not careful, you may fall.
Why not careful? ???

They are very opinionated too, with character.
When Jesslyn doesnt want something for eg food, she says I don't want, folds her arms firmly and looks away with her head high. It's really cute to see that from a 2yo toddler.
Besides having opinions about themselves for eg choosing the clothes to wear, they also have opinions about you. For example, Jerilyn used to tell me if SHE THINKS I don't look good wearing something or if my hair is messy and needs a brush.

This is the time they test their freedom and rights. They want to exert independence and give us the 'I can too' message. Jesslyn is going thru the phrase Jerilyn went thru such as wearing her own clothes and shoes. If you so much so as to help her, she might throw her tantrums. She would remove her clothes and put them on again!!! When she is done, she will parade in front of you and exclaimed You see! You see!Sometimes, 2 legs would end up in 1 pants hole. When this happens, she walks around slowly until some1 sees her.

I came across 'Terrible Twos' and found that it means a development stage when a toddler is about 2yo. I have never associated my condition with this term until now. However, I have a different understanding of this term. To me, 'Terrible Twos' means having 2 mischievous kids esp if they are about the same age. When alone, they play quietly. But, when put them together, things become chaotic. When they play, they bring the house down. When they fight, they bring each other down. Look at what Jesslyn's bite did to Jerilyn's arm.









This is what I call 'Terrible Twos'.

The Lost World - 16/10/2010

Over the past few weeks, Daddy had been very busy with work; so busy that he worked more than 15hours a day and weekends too. I had been patient and tried to be an understanding wife. Finally, his ISO project was approved last week. Although this is not the end of it, at least he can breathe a sigh of relief for the time being.

As compensation for abandoning us, he took us to The Lost World of Tambun last Saturday. It's a combination of natural limestone hills and hot springs and the man-made sandy beach and amusement park. It's priced at RM38/adult, RM32/child below 12yo but above 90cm. Hubby said that parents often hope that children will grow up faster but this is the time we hope they grow slower.

Our first station was the Petting Zoo. As the name suggests, most of the animals are fit as pets. You can find raccoons, hedgehogs, guinea pigs, rabbits, monkeys, parrots, hamsters, skunks, snakes; to name a few. As the zoo is created against a hill, complete with waterfall, the walk was more interesting and adventurous than visiting a normal zoo where you walk on smooth tar roads. Another plus point for this zoo is that we can have a closer look at some animals, so close that there are zoo-keepers who also serve as guards to guard against animal abuse and stealing. I notice this when we were at the hamster booth. Some naughty kids were pushing and disturbing the hamsters. The zoo-keeper watched the kid like a hawk. She didn't say anything though. Other than that, you can also touch the rabbits, guinea pigs and some other tame animals. They may be tame but for people who haven't been closed to animals much, the close contact can be quite an experience and a shock. A rabbit, for instance, stood suddenly with their paws on the fence. I was kneeling with Jesslyn and imagine our surprise when the rabbit came eye-to-eye with us. Both of us actually jumped out of fright. Nevertheless, I encouraged the kids to touch the animals but Daddy was against the idea. He is quite paranoia about diseases and cleanliness.

After exiting the zoo, we spotted some swans, geese, tigers and horses as we walked quite a distance around the park. A sculpture of a gorilla caught the kids attention and even til today, Jerilyn is talking about it as if it's a real gorilla. Later, I was excited when I saw a sign 'Pony Ride' ahead but was I disappointed when I saw 2 horses(which claimed to be ponies) locked up in a small ranch. I was disappointed for 2 reasons: 1 is because the pony ride is not available (for the kids) that day. 2 is because I feel sad for the confined horses. I am no animal activist but I don't understand why these horses are confined in a 20'x20' ranch when the park is so spacious.

So, our next stop was the carousel. The kids took only one slow ride on it before we headed for the water park. The video and photos(which I will upload later) speak for itself. Daddy had a spot for himself too that is the hot springs & spa. The water was more than 40 degrees Celsius. Jerilyn only put the tip of her toe into the pool and retracted. She is one who h

ates anything burning or hot. As she walks on the sand, she was complaining that it's hot. At other times, she won't eat if she thinks that the food is too hot for her tongue.

As for me, I am happy watching the kids having fun. I enjoyed watching them play and laugh. They are definitely more daring than mommy. At less than 2yo, Jesslyn went on a slippery, very sloppy slide. Jerilyn moved her limbs like a 'desperate' armateur swimmer. Probably 'determined' would be a more appropriate word. She depended on her stomach to keep afloat. Adorable! I, on the other hand, isn't as adventurous as my kids. I don't like to get wet. I only allowed the water to go up to knee deep.

All in all, we spent 4 hours at The Lost World. That's enough for the kids to be lost in their dreams the moment they got into the car.

Jesslyn @ 22months

Can't recall when Jerilyn started bombarding us with WH- Questions but I am sure it's way after 2yo. As for Jesslyn, she picked up questioning skill from her sis since she was 19months old. Lately, she has added WHY questions as well.

• Why you cry? (she may also get a tissue and rub your tears. So sweet.)
• Why so sad? (if you look sad)
• Why close the door?
• Why Daddy go swimming(bathe actually)?etc...

Some of the Don't instructions she gives are:

• Don't touch.
• Don't read. (when she needs me while I am reading)
• Don't sit. I want to sit.
• Don't sing. (if you sing when she is singing. Very possessive, isn't she?)
  

As for toilet training, I mentioned that she doesnt use the napkin during the daytime. Although she wears diapers at night but based on the past 2 weeks records, she manages to control her bowel til the next morning for more than 60% of the nights, meaning the diapers are dry. I will still put her on diapers. Can't take the risk yet. Other than that, she hasnt been pooing her in her diapers for at least 2months. When she needs to do her big business, she will announce it and we will take the time to go up the stairs to use the toilet upstairs. We have one of those baby toilet seats but the two of them hardly use it. Jerilyn didnt use it because she tend to shee outside the toilet seat. Is there something wrong with the mould? How do other kids use it then? Jesslyn doesnt use it simply because I never make it habit for her to sit on it. If you put her on a baby toilet seat, she feels uncomfortable.

Voice Mail

If you are familiar with the voice mail system in Malaysia, you would know that it comes in at least 3 languages, all in one voice mail. This recording was taken when she made a call to her dad and the call was forwarded to a voice mail Dont expect much, just want to share. Do listen til the end.

Our Routine

After the application for the maid has been cancelled, we decided not to employ any maids for 2 reasons. Firstly, by the time the next application to be successful, which could take 3 months, Jerilyn would have started schooling and we dont really need the maid anymore. Secondly, I dont have to go through the 'Life with a Maid' ordeal again(sounds serious huh?). So, instead of getting a permanent 'pain in the back', I'd chosen part-time maid who only comes once a week.
It has now been 2 weeks since the semester commenced. Things have been quite manageable with the help of my dad and MIL. When I have full day classes on Mondays and Tuesdays, dad will take care of Jesslyn while Jerilyn with my MIL.
On other days when I only have half day work, the kids stay with my dad. The routine is dad coming over at 7.30 as that's when I go to work (for this sem). He lingers around til the kids wake up between 9.00a to 10.00. Ah Gong prepares them for another new day and they usually go out for lunch 2 hours later. By the time they return home, I should be on my way home. When I reach home, my dad goes home and I dutifully continue my work at home; play with the kids, teach some reading and writing, chat and later, put them to bed. While they sleep, I sweep and mop and clean. While waiting with anticipation for the door to open and footsteps down the stairs, I surf the net and enjoy a cup of afternoon coffee.
On a lucky day, they could sleep for 2 hours. After they have recharged, they continue messing up the house again. Sometimes, they watch some Barney or Strawberry Shortcakes shows. We have our dinner at 7pm. This is the only time I can enjoy my one hour tv programme for the day. I only have to cook rice. The dishes are home delivered. For RM138 per month, I get 2veg + 1meat for 6 days a week. After the 7pm Chinese programme, I mop again and bathe them. After that, we normally do some reading together (I dont like the kids to get sweat again)although the kids prefer more hyper-active activities while we wait for Daddy to come home. When my assistant is back, we begin to wind down and prepare for bed. It used to take my an hour at least to fall asleep but nowadays, I easily doze off the moment my head touches the pillow.
This summarises my routine from this month 'til dec. After that would be another story.

* Jesslyn's new skill is drawing a Fish. Dont have a picture to share yet.

Jesslyn's Linguistic Skill

At 21months, having simple conversations with Jesslyn is not a problem. She seems to understand whatever you say and is able to express very well. Some of the expressions I wish to remember are:

• When she hears thunder or an engine roar, she asks "What's that?" followed by running to me and says "I am scared. Too loud."
• After she has done me a favour like combing my hair, she requests "Say thank you, Mummy." and followed by "Ar... good girl." after I thank her.
• When Jie2 wants something from her and she is not in the mood, she says "No way."
• She often asks the meaning of words by asking "... means?" esp if you speak in non-English language.
• Some of the common Pronouns she uses are I, you, my, mine. My and mine are important survival words to her. Haha...
• "I take the bag", "Don't touch ...", "Go away", "Whose's that?", "Look at the time!"
• She uses "Excuse me" when something is in her way.
• She asks "Are you ok? Is it painful?" when she bruises or cuts on you.
• When she wakes up, the first thing she asks is "Where's daddy?" and the last thing she says before bed is "Good night (Daddy/Mummy/Mei2)" and each time, Jerilyn has to correct her.

However, she is still confused with certain animals. For example, she may claim that a dog is a gorilla, a duck is a chicken and a lion is a tiger and vice versa.

Here is a video of her singing a Mandarin song. Is she clear enough for you to figure out what she is singing?

Little Superstar

Sorry for the ludicrous view. Jesslyn refused to sing in front of the camera. So, if you still cant figure out, it's her legs you will be looking at.

Jerilyn's drawing

Here are some of Jerilyn's art collection.


Notice the eye-brows?









Angry Face









Stand Fan










Happy Face







Sad Face

Do you see a circle right below the head? She claims that its the stomach.
The 2 strong lines from the eyes are tears.

To the Pool

I had wanted to take Jerilyn to the pool for ages but never did (except once) til last Sunday. There were 2 reasons:

1. We are worried that the water is contaminated or not suitable for Jerilyn's sensitive skin.
2. We are just plain lazy.
I made up my mind that I must bring her to the pool this sem break. Not being able to swim has been 1 of the regrets in my life, thus it's my wish for my kids to learn the skill. Last Sunday, Jerilyn had a pee accident early in the morning at 8am which woke the whole family up. Therefore, hubby & I took this golden opportunity to head for the pool.

Daddy took Jerilyn down into the pool first. After a short while, Jerilyn came up and told us that she only wanted to sit on the bench. She was almost in tears. So, instead of persuading her, we persuaded Jesslyn to go down, knowing she is more adventurous than Jerilyn. She was reluctant at first. I thought we had to head home after only 5minutes in the pool. However, Jesslyn took a brave step to put her feet into the water, then her legs and sat on the stairs. The water was up to her lower waist. She was moving her legs and playing. Soon, Jerilyn followed. They splished and splashed and started to have fun. Daddy also gave them some swimming lessons, which was to put up their legs while hanging on to Daddy's arm and kick the water. They loved it. Jerilyn even asked me to try going into the pool.

Although I didnt swim but I was the one hunger for food. We packed our bag & left 45 mins later.

Daddy's analysis: Jesslyn is more daring than Jerilyn. However, once Jerilyn starts to experiment with something, she will use her creativity and imagination to produce new ideas. Jesslyn is more of a parrot. She will benefit from Jerilyn's creativity while Jerilyn will benefit from Jesslyn's bravery. They complement each other, dont they?
Another eg where Jesslyn is more daring is when she dares to use an exercise machine but Jerilyn, til now, still shakes her head when asked to try.

Excuses

Children nowadays are sharp tongue and full of excuses when it comes to work. They are disrespectful, inconsiderate and rebellious. Will mine turn out to be like them(or they are already so) when I get responses like these:

Mummy: Who did this? [someone did something naughty]
Jerilyn: It's Mei2.

Mummy: Jerilyn, (do something).
Jerilyn: You (do it). I am (excuse).

Mummy: Jerilyn, dont (do something).
Jerilyn: Yah, I know, but then, (excuse).

[Jesslyn was playing with water by pouring water from her bottle and swing her arms on it. Jerilyn saw the fun and joined her.]
Mummy: Jerilyn, stop Jesslyn from pouring the water.
Jerilyn: Ok. [But, she herself poured the water. I scolded her. After a while,]
Jerilyn: Mei2, you pour. I dont know how. [I am surprised she knows to save her butt by putting others in hot soup.]

Toys

I didnt have many toys when I was young. One of the most expensive toys I had is Lego which cost RM100++ 20 years back. Sis. and I took care of it and made sure we didnt lose any pcs (a few are missing) or break them. Just for the record, we love our other toys too.

My parents had kept Lego in their store until recently when my dad thought it is time to pass it on to Jerilyn. He passed the box to me last Saturday and Jerilyn has been having fun building bicycle, see-saw, swing and robot. 3 days later, the most dreaded thing happened. She broke 1 of the pcs. I was fuming inside. But to my own surprise, my reaction was much milder than I thought. I only gave her a piece of my mind and that's it. [Since the maid left, my temper does not go flaring so easily]. She tried to defend herself with accusing tone; saying that she doesnt know how to remove the pcs and that it's difficult to pull them away. Hmm.... so, it has become my fault?

More about Js'

# POTTY TRAINING(Part 3)
We should be happy that Jesslyn is toilet trained.[Yes, we are]. However, this doesnt come without inconveniences.Can you guess what is the inconvenience?
Imagine your, less than 2yo child, pestering incessantly for toilet - "Mummy, shee shee. Daddy, shee shee" in a quiet, almost romantic dining place. What would you do? At first, we tried to ignore her but she was getting louder and louder and also stood up in her high chair. I asked hubby to take her to the car as we had a potty in case of emergency. They went and returned but there was no shee shee. Most probably by the time we took her pleas seriously, she had relieved herself in the diapers. :-p

# SONGS

In addtion to the list of songs I posted a few weeks back, Jesslyn is also confident with these songs.

1. London Bridge
2. Row, Row, Row the Boat
3. Three Blind Mice (She can only sing 3 Blind Mice, See how they run)
4. Polly Put the Kettle on (She misses the word 'Kettle' tho)

# PRONUNCIATION & LANGUAGE
My dad always complain that Jerilyn cannot pronunce the 'l' and 'r' properly. Her 'play' sounds more like 'pay'. 'Jesslyn' becomes 'Jessyn' and what is worse is her name which consists of both 'l' and 'r' - instead of 'Jerilyn Goh Kai Lin', it's 'Jerrlyn Goh Kai Yin'. I feel that it's a temporary problem and most children will grow out of it. Dont they? But, sis thinks that she may bring this to adulthood. Will she?
I give her the benefit of doubt because she is learning a few languages and dialect. Her 1st language is English and she masters Malay language quite well. Other than that, she learns Teo Chew from her granny and also tries to communicate with her cousins in Mandarin. My aunts advise my dad to teach her Hakka dialect but my dad is not keen. He thinks that she is already learning too many languages for her age.

Life after Maid

1 week after the maid has gone, life has been good if not great. Good because there is nothing for me to get upset about and most importantly, I dont have to see her face. Yes, I hate her.
Anyway, on Monday and Tuesday, my dad was in charge of Jesslyn and MIL took care of Jerilyn. I was on leave on Wednesday & today(Friday). Hubby was on leave yesterday.
On Wednesday, I started my day at 830am and throughout the day, I was on my feet except the times when I had to burn dvd for my dad and facebooking. I changed my kids to day clothes, fed them, did the laundry, washed the dishes and did all sorts of cleaning. I swept 4 times and mopped twice. This excludes the numerous wipings I had to do cuz of the sticky, oily, dusty, dirty surfaces. I really wonder how others manage their house chores or am I suffering from obsession with cleanliness?
P/S I had to empty the potty about 20times too in a day!

Potty Training (Part 2)

Exactly 1 week after Jesslyn said No to diapers, I can proudly say that she 90% trained for daytime. Over the past 3 days, there has been NO accidents at all and I dont even have to ask her if she needs a wee. She herself will go to the potty whenever she has the need. As if knowing that it is 'not right' to wee in her pants, the moment she has the urge, she quickly throttles to the potty. Sometimes, there is no wee at all.
She didnt need the diapers during nap times too for the past 2 afternoons.
I believe it wont be long before she can go without diapers at night.
Jesslyn is 20m11d old.

Falling in Love

At 1 time, the mention of 'doctor' gave Jerilyn the shivers and taking medicine was more like taking poison to her. We could not persuade, bribe or threaten her. However, now, she has fallen in love with doctors and medicine.
She asks for medicine with just a cough. She even asks for medicine although she is perfectly fine. If she thinks she is unwell, she wants to see the doctor. How peculiar!

Some of you may be wondering what happens after the miracles on the 4th(Wednesday). She has been diaper free for 3 consecutive days (whenever I am home). I had to work in the morning so I couldnt tell what happened. But, I made sure she didnt wear her napkins since I reached home at 1pm on Thursday and Friday. On those 2 days, about 20%-30% of the number of peeing times ended up on the floor. Other than asking her frequently(about 1-2hours after the last pee), she herself is quite conscious with her urge to pee. She herself will go to the potty and sit on it every once in a while. Probably she has the urge but she could not tell her bladder to release. So, she ends up sitting, getting up, walking around it and sitting on it again repeatedly. Though Jerilyn was potty trained around the same age, but I'm still stunned at Jesslyn's readiness for potty training. It happened overnight from nothing to volunteering continuously to use the potty. She could hold her bladder too from announcing her urge to taking her shorts and walking to the potty which may take 10secs.

Potty Training @ 20months

Just a few days back, I was lamenting how much longer Jeslyn has to depend on pampers.
But, yesterday 'miracles' happened. It started with this:
1. I was getting her ready for bath time and as usual, she wanted to sit on the toilet bowl. I put her on it and to my surprise, she wee in it. It was the 2nd time she wee in the toilet bowl.
2. After bathing, we put in her napkin and about half an hour, she said "Shee2", pulling down her shorts. Very quickly I put her in the potty and to my surprise, she did it again on the potty. I was surprised she could control her bladder until she sat on it. Moreover, normally, she said "Shee2" AFTER she has wee-ed.
3. Only then, the maid told me that in the morning, Jesslyn said "Boo2" to her and the maid had enough time to put her in the toilet bowl(in grandma's house) before she did her thing.
4. Before bedtime, Jesslyn said the magic word again and did her thing at the right place!!!
Wasnt that a miracle?!