10 Things I Hate About My Hubby Tag

I was tagged by Karen. I have been putting this tag off as I really do not know what to write. There is very little that I hate about my hubby. You can't even call it hate. It's more like mild irritations. We hardly fight. The screaming bouts are more with the kids. But I take this tag as a sign of friendship and appreciate that Karen even thought of me. So I will reciprocate.

1. His bad moods can be brought on by simple things. You don't know when it's going to hit. I guess you could say it's like London weather -- don't know when it's going to change. But it's effects ripples through the whole house and makes everyone want to run away. BUT the children and I have learned that it's best to leave daddy alone during that time. I know he is under a lot of stress to provide for us and people have their bad days. So, it's okay.

2. His super clean disposition. He cannot wait till the children finish their meal before he picks up the crumbs. He does it while they are still eating. So, unintentionally he creates tension in the kids. Poor kids have to quickly learn as babies that they must eating properly.
I grew up in a household where sweeping and mopping was only done like 2x a week. DH insists it should be done everyday. We've compromised and I do it every other day. I'm not a clean freak but he's instilled in me some good habits. So, it's okay.

3. He forgets we are around. He works from home and sometimes, when he comes out of his office, he will walk pass us without saying anything. There is no sign of acknowledgment. It's like we are invisible. I know that sometimes he zones out when he's thinking a lot. So I take it upon myself to remind him of our existence, or do something to bring him back to earth. So, it's okay.

4. He doesn't let me indulge in too much junk food, sweet drinks and outside food. He's thinking of my health. So, it's okay.

5. He blames the children's light coloured hair on me being out in the sun playing golf when I was pregnant. There's no logic to that. So, it's okay.

6. He never gives me a 10/10 for my cooking. When I ask him how is the dish, he always gives the passing grade of "okay-lah". This is because he thinks he is a better cook than me. Well... I must admit he is. But my cooking not too bad also what. Anyway, he is willing to do the everyday cooking. So, it's okay.

7. He hardly exercises or play sports. I am the sporty kind but have nobody to play with. Mind you, I mean playing sports, not exercising. So, I have to succumb to playing with my children. But how fun is it playing badminton with your 5 and 3 year old? But I know it's because he is working hard now so he can play later. So, it's okay.

8. He hasn't taken me or the children on a vacation... ever. Travelling has only been confined to 'balik kampung' during Chinese New Year. I know financially it is not feasable to go on a vacation now. But when we strike it rich, I'm insisting we go everywhere. It'll be good for the kids too. Till then, it's okay. I can wait.

9. He can't live without his internet connection. Another reason why we don't go on vacations. But it's his livelihood. So, it's okay (for now, but not forever).

10. He lied to me when I was pregnant. He told me the gynae said NOT to eating durians. But I ate anyway. So, it's okay. Muahahahah.

I'm not going to tag anybody. Reason being I don't want to encourage people to focus on their spouse's negatives. BUT if you need to let off steam, consider yourself tagged. It's okay.

Baby Smile

Baby D is now 4 months old. Unlike his first few months of expressionless face, he can now smile and laugh. If you call him, he will turn to look at you. And if you talk to him, he will give you this smile and turn away in a shy manner.

How do I get things done with 3 kids at home? Well, sometimes I would put Baby D down on a mattress in the living room and ask the other two kiddos to entertain him (see, having more than 1 child is actually beneficial). I notice he has been watching his two siblings rather intently lately. Probably picking up on all the crazy stuff they are doing. Oh no!
He can also play with the baby gym now. Focusing and trying to grab the hanging stuff to put in his mouth.

When he is tired of playing on the mattress, I would plunk him down in the stroller and have him sit and watch me do stuff. Most of the time, instead of watching me do stuff, I put him near the door facing outside. He seems to like this better.
Look at how he sits on the stroller -- with one leg up like a 'tai koh'. So people, meet my boss #3.

Quality, Measurable Feedback From Your Blog Readers!

Think about this for a second. Most blogs already support a "comment" feature, but what good is that to you?

There's no rating system! How does a rating system help your blog?
Okay, well imagine this:

------
You're looking for some information on Affiliate Marketing when you come across a blog. The first blog on the page isn't too impressive, and the comments are generally insulting. You scan the rest of the page to see if there's any value to be had, but your opinion's already set from the first thing you saw.

The blogger is clearly not that great. You click away.
------

Click away?! No, no, no, no, no, NO!

You don't want them to click away! It was just an off day, you were tired, the post you made was weak, it wasn't even really your post, it was a reference to another post...

Whatever the reason, that post was not the norm! But how does the reader of the blog know that unless they've clicked through every single comment and read through them all?

Simple. A review mechanism! Help your readers leave you an objectively measurable account of their opinion of your writing! Attract a stronger audience to your blog by letting public opinion dictate the value of your work!

You can even predetermine the criteria that the rating system is based on, which helps you to improve your writing so that your readers get more out of it!

Not only does it keep your readers coming back, but it's fantastic as a feedback mechanism for you to improve your writing with!

If you're not using RatingDominator, you're missing out... big time!

And, of course, it's freely available :) Just click on the text below.
RATING DOMINATOR

p.s. I believe this only works for wordpress blogs. If you want to have a look at how it works, I'm using this at my other blog (http://blog.valuebookshop.com).

Super Heroes In The Home

Superman, Batman, Spiderman etc... my young kids are very familiar with super heroes. It would seem that one of their growing stage is learning about good vs evil. My son especially, would occasionally dress up as a 'good guy' and go about defeating imaginary villains (even dinosaurs). My girl is also in the loop as she fancies cartoons such as Legend of the Superheroes.

Well, why not take advantage of this eh? I need help at home and in a way, need to be rescued at times. Therefore, I've made my children into my super heroes. These are some things my super heroes do for me:

• Bring down the dirty laundry
• Bring down the kettle from the upstairs bathroom so I can boil hot water for baby's bath
• Hand over a clean diaper
• Get a towel for me to wrap baby in after he bathes (sometimes I forget)
• Pick up my ringing handphone which is usually not on the same floor I'm at
  
• Bring up the empty laundry basket
• Find the always lost pacifier
  
• Get the always missing handkerchief to wipe baby's drool
• Throw xxx in the dustbin for me
• Pat baby back to sleep coz' mommy's out hanging the clothes
• Turn on the bathroom light for Koko D (he's still not tall enough yet)

So, nowadays, this is how I summon my super heroes:

"I need xxxxx, who will be my super hero?"
After I've been rescued... Thank you super hero (insert name here).
Sometimes I would also sing "Rescue girl/boy, coming to my rescue". The tune is taken from Go, Diego, Go when he opens his rescue pack.

This has really helped me get my kids to do things with a good attitude. Before, when I would ask them to do something, they would complain, moan and groan. Now with the super hero tag, they even fight and race to do the task. Hooray for heroes! Hopefully they won't catch on to mommy's trick.

Working Towards A Happy Family

I was blog hopping the other day and came across one where the child commented her job was to play. I tried to locate it so I could link it here but can't find it. So sorry-ah if it was your blog. Let me know and I will put the link in.

Anyway, reason why I mentioned it is because it gave me a good idea on a 'lesson' for my kids. The idea is that for this family to be happy, everyone has to do their 'job'. Below is a rough outline of how the lesson went:

My Q: What happens if one part of the car doesn't work? Can the car move?
Kids: Nooo.
My Q: If the engine cannot work how?
Kids: Car cannot move
... continue to go through different parts of the car e.g. steering wheel, no petrol, flat tyre, gear spoil
Conclusion: For the car to move, every part needs to be working right?
Kids: Yes.
My Q: So the same with our family. Each of us have a job to do. What is daddy's job?
Kids: Work, earn money, cook lunch and dinner, do the gardening
My Q: What happens if daddy doesn't do his 'job'?
Kids: We have no money, no food to eat
My Q: Good. What is mommy's job?
Kids: Clean baby's butt, sweep and mop the floor, wash our clothes take care of us, wash the dishes, teach us, read email (err... no, that is not part of my job)
My Q: What if mommy don't do her job?
Kids: Nobody bath baby, his butt will have rashes, the house will be dirty, we wear dirty clothes.
My Q: Yes, that's right. Now, what are your jobs?
Kids: Brush our teeth, take our bath, play, ... (after some prompting they continue with) help to study, take care of baby, don't throw things on the floor, be kind, don't fight
My Q: Okay. Important for you have a good spirit right? So what if you don't do your job?
Kids: We become stupid, lots of shouting and hitting

Conclusion: We all need to do our 'job' for this house to be a happy home. Everyone agree?
Kids: YES!

Kids... they have all the answers. Knowledge very good. Application not so good. I have a good feeling there will be repeats to this lesson.

Still Battling Sibling Rivalry

I guess I just have to accept that there will always be fights between K and Koko D. Sometimes, they can't even remember why they fought (roll eyes). The biting has not stopped. We have reminded Koko D over and over again that they are other ways to let out his anger. But I guess it happens so fast and the emotions are so strong that before he can stop himself, the teeth has attacked. Well, K has decided to play him at his game. The last few days she has bitten him back -- and it looks worse than the bite that she got from him. Hers are just teeth marks. His becomes bruises. Aiyoh!

And what about mommy? I've tried all sorts of tips that I've read about. Also it depends on my mood too on how I handle the problem. Sometimes I try to be a nice parent, sometimes I just let the monster mommy loose. Here are some ways I respond - good and bad:

• Ignore - let them sort it out
• Don't play judge
• Let each have a turn to tell their story
• Put them both in time-out then ask them what is the correct thing to do
  
• Throw them both out of the house with the excuse that I will not allow their bad spirit create negative energy in the home environment
• Scream at both of them - scold, scold, scold
• Separate the two
• Have both of them stop talking to each other -- the more they talk, the worse they make the situation
• Threaten to send them each to a separate grandparent to live with -- you can't live together, DON'T
  
• Send them to sleep - blame their crankiness on lack of sleep
• Show sympathy to the injured party, ignore the other
• Cane the one that's doing the attacking (yes, unfortunately we sometimes resort to canning but follow up with a heart-to-heart talk later)

And my latest trick - SING

When the fighting starts, I start singing the following church hymns:

I'm Trying To Be Like Jesus and Love At Home

Chorus to I'm Trying To Be Like Jesus:
Love one another as Jesus loves you
Try to show kindness in all that you do
Be gentle and loving in deed and in thought
For these are the things Jesus taught

First four lines to Love At Home:
There is beauty all around
When there's love at home
There is joy in every sound
When there's love at home

How do the kids respond?
"Okay mommy, okay mommy. STOP singing."
Hahahahah. Wah, my singing so bad meh?

Even though we parents would like our children to always be kind and love one another, we have to accept that fights will always exist. But it is a goal to shoot for. However, it will take lots of patience and many, many, many firm reminders.

Join This List of Malaysian Bloggers

There is a project over at Earn Money Blogging to put Malaysian bloggers under one banner. Don't be left out. Details as follows:

Introduction
The purpose of My List is to gather all Malaysian blogs under the banner of unity and creating a huge bookmark. So much richness can be found within our very own Malaysian blogs and this will open up our minds and hearts to the lives of our fellow bloggers. If you are keen to participate, kindly read this page entirely for instructions and guidelines.

Who can Participate?

• Malaysian bloggers residing anywhere on mother earth.
• Non-Malaysians whose blogs feature anything pertaining to Malaysia (example: Malaysian food, Formula 1 in Malaysia and etc).
• Blog submitted must be of good quality contents. Please do not submit your blog which is less than 2 weeks old.

Dateline for Participation
31st May 2007

Important Guidelines

• One reminder email will be sent once the final list is updated on this page after the deadline.
• All participants must then feature a brand new post before 15th of June with the final updated and complete list of participating Malaysian blogs downloadable directly via the email or from this dedicated My List page.
• All My List Post must be permanent and accessible.

Submitting Your Other Blogs
You may submit as many blogs which is owned by you but each blog entry must contain their own My List post.

How To Participate

1. Download My List in Text format.
2. Make a new post promoting My List and guide your fellow Malaysian readers to this page if they are keen to participate.
3. Copy the entire Text File you downloaded.
4. Paste it at the end of your post. (You can arrange it however you prefer if it goes lengthy but ensure the entire list is there)
5. Publish the post and ensure all links are in working order.
6. Submit your contact details and the permanent url of your MyList post by using this contact form.
7. Your blog url will then be added to the list.
8. Post a new post of the final My List after receiving an email notification as mentioned in the guidelines above. This is done to ensure everyone will benefit from this even those who participate later or close to the deadline.

Here is My List so far:

My List Participants

BERSAMA MEMBINA KEJAYAAN
THE BITCH CLUB
Artmaker
BlogWawasan.com
life is beautiful
Adino Online
Penang Homes
Physical-e
A Mom's Diary
Health Freak Mommy
mrdefinite.com - It’s hot
Tracking Movies
SquareCookies
MonkeyWong
Voice of a Glass Doll
Online Article Directory
Bambang
Wise Life Advice
Kaklong Online Portal
Down Memory Lanes
Sleeping Princess
Online Bisnes Forex Marketing Blog
project010
ProTechWang.Com
Bleargh
Pigeon Card
Pianologist
KCLau’s Money Tips
The Great Swifty Speaketh
Mr & Mrs. Imran
If fate allow our destinies to meet
From chopstix to steak knives
Where's My Noose?
Duke Amiene Rev
Mum & Kids In Wonderland
Yum-Yum Cuisine
Software, Web Development and Technology
just another ordinary story
Mummy In Vain's Little World
How To Solve Your Question
FáLLiÑg LéÃVéS
add this to my life
Free Encyclopedia
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try-test
arshad's photojourney
EvelynHolic
RajaBLog.info
Lovelymummy's Bay
My Yummy Cruise
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Lovely Mummy
OnlineBisnes Malay Blog
Purest of e2wen
MyAnimes MySpace
Blog Badruzamani.Org
Parenting Life
Forum Newbie Bisnes Internet & Blogger
Mohd Sufian
A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words
hcfoo's blog
Amazing Grace
The Sanctuary
Welcome To cHrIstInA_YY's Pink World
Defying Destiny
Dead Boredom Seeking Freedom
Travelogue
An amazing & adventurous journey
Erin
Nurjenna
[B][E][A][U][T][I][F][U][L]
Fluffy's Day Off
My Fairy-Tale
Once Upon A Time
Money Making Blog
Bubba Stuff
Little Raymond's
quaint melody
Seraph Chronicles
Route Brumeuse
Coder's Talk
Reggae And SKA
Art Of ApOgEE
THE VEGEMASTER LIFE
Boonage
Coretan Pengalaman Mat
Silverhorsegunnysack
BLUEAPPLE
scribbles
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Karma Kameleon
Hsien's Dirty Little Secret
The Rojak Blog
keeyit
My Life Online
Fun Stuffs
Donny's Bits
Nicholas Chan's Blog
dream of's DESIGN
strike freedom 115
Truly Malaysia
It's another new day
Lisan's Scribbles
Ramblings of a 22 years old
The Towering Joe
Life's a Breeze
Life's Roller Coaster
AceOne118
In His Time
in His time
The New Sanctuary
a life full of surprises
Sketches of Life
Shannon's Old Space
Pikey Dude
SEO & Online Marketing Blog
ShowMeMoneyBiz.com
Snapshots
kahpengBlog
I am Who I am
yung . silent whisper
Simple Life
One blog.One girl.One story
The World Through My Eyes
Why Malaysia?
Etcetera~Etcetera
Giddy Tigers
Make Money Online: Exploring The Dark Side of Blogging
Xilly's Blog
Malaika Xiao Yu
My Home Recipe
SQKIKI’s Simple Tech
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ITCHY HANDseng
Just My Lil' Organic Life
Oooh La La...
Weird World of MerapuMan
Fibre Art
The World at My Fingertips
Organic Income
Organic Parade
Shopping Flavor
Daily postings of a chung ling student
Something about LAI
KennyP’s Technology Blog
Women Mumbles
KuKuJian.com
Lyon & Wien
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Crumbs In Life
SotongZai's Flow In the Ocean
allthingspurple
Christene's Kitchen
toxicle.org
[ Wood ] [ Earth ] [ Cheap ] [ Flight ]
COMtech
Ah Ling's blog
Memoirs.:*CRoSs mY hE@Rt
~WoOLaLA~
vivivava Design
My Mothering Corner
Shoppingmum’s Home Office
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datotalrandommessy.grey
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wahlau's online hut
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mott’s mutterings
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delephant
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HOT STUFF
Make Money Online with Malaysia Love AGLOCO
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Blogsreview.Net
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5xmom
How to be a Better Blogger
My Women Stuff
Hochiak! Delicious Asian Food
Best Recipes
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Daryl's Discovery Journey
The fluff must go somewhere

Ignorant On Malay Customs

Yesterday my family was invited to our neighbour's "Majlis Kesyukuran" (Thanksgiving). I was happy to be invited as I haven't really had a chance to meet the neighbours since moving in last year. My DH is better off than me as he joins the Rukun Tetangga (patrolling the area at night) and has made friends with some of the guys. As for me, I have only talked to my left-right neighbours and even then, the meeting is scarce because they are at work most of the time. Sad to say, I can't even remember their names. Aiyoh, I know... bad of me.
This is a neighbourhood of young families. And as far as I can see, I dare say all of the husband-wife work. So, I hardly see them around, especially the women folk.

Anyway, back to the "majlis". Ooooo... forgot to mention that we were the only chinese (or rather, non-Malay) there. We waited outside in the tent as they did their prayers. Guessed they were finished when I saw people coming out of the house heading towards the buffet. Naturally, I tended to my children, getting them their food. I also took for myself and sat down next to them. With baby on my lap, I started to dig in. DH left to sit elsewhere as some kid had taken his seat. As I was eating, I looked around and felt a bit funny. I wondered... where are the women? I could only see guys and a few children. Anyway, baby started to fuss and so I put my eating on hold.

After a while, I saw my next door neighbour walking towards the buffet. She came to me and apologized for forgetting to invite me into the house. It seems that the women usually wait till the men finish before they start their "chow" time. She wanted to come get me but she didn't dare as there were already too many people around the eating area. Alamak! I felt sooo 'pai seh' (feeling bad and shy).

I'm so used to how we do it at church. The order of things has always been children first, then women, then men. I thought this was universal. Boy, was I wrong. This is what I get for not learning the Malay customs. Of course they are all so nice and I know they won't hold it against me. But still can't help feeling like a lost sheep. And I think my mistake felt worse because I stood out like a sore thumb -- like I mentioned before, we were the only non-Muslim there.

Anyway, I quickly gobbled up my food. Told my DH I was taking baby back home as he was restless. I think that was the one time baby's crankiness came in useful -- gave me the perfect excuse to escape. I just felt like a fish out of water.

So much for my opportunity to get to know my neighbours better. In fact, I would look at the women and wonder if they were my neighbour or not??? I don't even know how some of my neighbours look like. I know what their children look like and I know the children's names. But I don't know what the adults look like. Hahahah. Funny eh?

So, anybody has a quick lesson on Malay customs for this ignorant Malaysian?

Another Story of an Empty Plate

Finally koko D earns his place on this blog with his empty clean plate. I was complaining a few weeks back how he was giving me a hard time finishing his food and feeding his ownself. Well, he has been really good the last week or so. Not only finished his food, but c-l-e-a-n-e-d the plate. I love clean plates :)
Now, I wonder what did the trick? Was it:
1. My pep talk about how he needs to be an example to his baby brother? That baby might wonder why a koko needs to be fed?
2. The fact that his grandfather has gone back to Penang and therefore, nobody to 'bully'?
3. How his big sister is now doing a fantastic job cleaning her plate and getting lots of praises from me?
4. The fact that he had to sit out on an after-meal goody that one time he didn't finish his food?
5. He loves Mommy and is trying very hard to be an obedient child?
6. Our reminders that he is not growing as he should and so his body needs the food?
7. Our cooking is getting better?
8. Our lesson that our bodies are a gift from Heavenly Father and that we are responsible to care for it?

Hmm... I wonder what did the trick?

Baby Can Turn!

Woo hoo! Baby D hits a milestone. He has been actively turning the last 2 days. The last few weeks I've reduced drastically the amount of time I carry him. He has been very good when I lay him on the mattress. Unfortunately, a bit lazy to turn. He would just lay there happily eating his "drumstick" (sucking his entire fist) and looking around. We would tease him by saying his butt is too heavy to turn. He finally proved us wrong. Now we got to watch out that he doesn't roll on to the floor.
I'm not sure if my little trick spurred him on. You see, I was told that to encourage babies to turn, you put them on a blanket and gently lifting the sides, you roll them back and forth. 2 nights ago, I had my DH assist me. He held on to one side, I held on to the other. Baby was like hammocked in the middle of the blanket and we rolled him for half a minute or so. He enjoyed that. Next day, he surprised me by turning on his own.
Anyway, I sound like a first time parent being all excited and stuff. But you know what, whether you are first time, third time or tenth time parent, it's so delightful to see your baby hit milestones.
GO, BABY GO!

p.s. I know I will regret this when he starts to move faster than I can catch him :)

Mother's Day Gifts

Getting an e-card from my daughter reminded me that Mother's Day is just around the corner. I haven't really done much to celebrate Mother's day for my own mother for the last few years. I remember as a teenager, I would get a card for her and write down my thanks. When I was away at university, I would also post home a card to tell her I loved her. Now we are in the digital age, giving and getting physical cards have become extinct like dinosaurs. Well, for me anyway.

Have you thought of what to give your mother for Mother's Day? Or have you thought of what you want to receive for Mother's Day? I think this year I'll get her something simple from MyAsper. Maybe a nice pendant or a bracelet? Why don't you check it out as well. Easy shopping and quite affordable. As people always say, "its the thought that counts."

Feel Good Moments

Received these e-cards in my mailbox today. It made me smile and laugh. Who were they from? Non other than my 5+ year old daughter. These things she can pick up very fast.

Anyway, click on the following to see how children these days apologize and win over their mother's hearts.

• Happy Mother's Day card
• I'm sorry card
  

Times the Bookshop Stock Clearance

Just to say that I was at the Times Book Sale at Dataran Hamodal (next to Colgate) and... it is a total waste of time if you are looking for children's books. Not much choice at all and the price is not that cheap either. So, if you are a parent thinking about going there to stock up on your children's library, DON'T! It's really not worth the trip, and to find a parking space is a nightmare.

This is my community message.

VALUE BOOKSHOP'S LUCKY DRAW IS STILL ON.

ENDING 30 APRIL 2007

HAVE YOU SUBMITTED YOUR NAME YET?

CLICK THE BUTTON BELOW

Who Are You Kidding?

Kids come in all kinds, even when they come from the same womb. Again today koko D here didn't finish his dinner. I was a little mad because I had asked him 3 times during dinner if he was able to finish it. And 3 times he said "Yes Mommy!" If he had said no, I would have dished out some of his onto my plate and eaten it for him.

Anyway, he was eating really slow. He talked more than he ate (darn, I need to replace my broken kitchen timer quick). In the end, he gave up. Well, I had gotten some sweets today while out shopping. Knowing how passionate my kids are about junk food, I told koko D that he wasn't getting any because of the wasted food.

If this happened to che-che K, she would probably sulk, show pathetic face, and drop a tear or two. Later she would file for a petition.

How did koko D take it? He came upstairs and adamantly declared "I don't like that sweet." Hahahah. Who are you kidding my dear son? Are you trying to convince me or yourself? You already delightfully indulged yourself in it earlier today. Hahaha.

This is not the first time. This is koko D's style of handling mommy's restraining orders. When I deprive him of something that he obviously likes, he tries to get back at you by telling you that he didn't like it in the first place. Sort of like saying "Your punishment isn't a punishment. Neh, neh, neh, neh, neh."

Such cunningness. I don't know whether to be proud or to be worried.

Haircut

Among my 3 babies, baby D is the one born with the least hair. He actually looks like a balding baby. Hahaha. The other two had a headful of hair. Anyway, he got his first haircut the other day. The barber was none other than his ever-ready-with-the-clipper dad. It was a very calm experience: no screaming or squirming. The result? My cutie pie look-like-a-monk baby!
By the way, this happens to be our LIM family's hairdo for the boys. From grandfather, to father, to grandsons... they all don the same hairstyle. It all started the day my DH bought himself a clipper and decided trips to the barber shop was over.

So, baby D... you have been officially initiated into the Puncak Alam Lim clan. Don't you think his face looks rounder now?

Tips for haircutting:
1. Invest in a good clipper. Can ask your barber to recommend one. The one we use an Edison cordless clipper. There is one for sale here: EDISON Professional Complete Rechargeable Clipper/Trimmer Set. My DH is happy with it.

2. Make sure your baby is in a good mood when you decide to cut.

3. Sometimes, it is mommy who has to be coaxed into the hair cutting. Baby's first hair is so soft, fine and nice. I always feel heavy hearted to cut it. But with my kids, their baby hair was kinda crazy as it would stand up when long. I mean, look at Big D when he was a baby.

That hair just wouldn't stay down. I was reluctant to cut his hair but he looked soooo much better after cutting. YOU JUST NEED TO HAVE SOME FAITH and LEARN TO LET GO.

4. The army style of cutting is the easiest. It's also fast and that works for squirmy kids.

Chubby Cheeks

This is my little chubby cheeks at 3 months old.

Danic went for his immunization jab today. We went to the Klinik Desa here at Puncak Alam and it was FREE. How nice. They weighed him at 8kg and pronounced him obese. Hahaha. Oh no, I have an obese baby. And all he has is breastmilk. Furthermore, he hasn't been feeding as much as before. Sometimes, he would go till 4-5 hours without a feed and still not make a fuss. I think the nurses didn't know what to advice me. They couldn't tell me to cut down on formula milk – coz' I'm not using formula milk. He has already cut down on the feeding. The only thing they could say was “don't give him solids until he is 6 months old.” Yes ma'am (tabik).

This is poor Danic knocked out. He had a slight fever and was quite cranky. Understandable. Gave him some medicine and that helped. Look at his chubby legs. So nice to squeeze.

A few weeks back, I tried to train Danic to fall asleep without being rocked. I would put him on the mattress and pat him. Unfortunately, it is not that easy. Danic would wail and wail. His face will be all red, fists clenched, stomach tightened and kicking liking crazy. The other mothers have said to let him cry it out, but not more than 10-15 minutes. So that is what I did. The result? I think I gave him colic. Either that or he became even more insecure. He would cry and refused to be consoled. Give him the breast to suck – NO. Give him the pacifier – NO. Rock him in the arms – NO. Put him in the sarong – NO. Oh, it was very exasperating. Anyway, Daddy chided Mommy a bit and teasingly said, “what have I done to the baby?”

So, what happened next? Mommy decided to totally ditch the idea of training baby to sleep by himself. Now we are back to holding him and rocking. Putting baby in the sling seems to work very well. It calms him down quite fast.

Lesson to be learned:
1. Do what is best for baby and not for yourself. Convenience is not always good parenting.
2. Don't listen too much to other people. All babies are different, all mothers are different. This makes for countless types of mother-baby combination. Do what your heart says is right.

So, for my babies, attachment parenting and baby wearing seems to be the answer.

Baby milestones:

• Baby likes to be talked to and will talk back. So cute to see him having a conversation.
• He can laugh (with sound). He likes being nuzzled at the neck. I think it tickles him.
• Have no desire to turn yet. He has tried and can sort of do it. But I think his butt is heavy. Hahaha.
• Can sleep through most of the night. Wakes up probably only once.

VALUE BOOKSHOP'S LUCKY DRAW IS STILL ON.
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Malaysian Options For Withdrawing Funds From Paypal

I was browsing around the other day and came across an ebook that offers solutions for Malaysians wanting to withdraw funds from their paypal account. It is known as "MalaysiaPal: PayPal Alternative in Malaysia". I was very excited, as you know Malaysians have no way of getting funds out of paypal. The ebook only costs RM10 (USD3) and gave you rights to resell it at RM10, meaning you can get back your money and maybe earn some more. I was so excited that I emailed some friends I thought could benefit from the information.

After reading the ebook, I wondered if the advice given is valid. The ebook highlights 3 ways. Anyway, I decided to do a little bit more digging just to be sure I won't get anyone in trouble for recommending the ebook. Well, bad news. My joy was short lived.

Over at the ebay forum discussion, there is mention of people getting into trouble with one of the methods proposed by MalaysiaPal. You can read it for yourself:

ebay forum discussion 1
ebay forum discussion 2

Seeing that is the case, I have decided to NOT resell this ebook. The other two methods mentioned in the book can still be used but you can find this information for FREE. Why buy free information! Therefore, I shall forego my chance to resell this ebook. I'd rather lose out on my RM10 then to recommend to my fellow parents (and nonparents) a product that is not worth the money.
I would like to extend my apologies to those that I had sent a recommendation email on this ebook. I should have checked it out more thoroughly first.

Also, there is another ebook just launched titled How To Withdraw Money From PayPal in Malaysia. This ebook is FREE. But it also mentions MalaysiaPal.

Actually, if you want to learn about ways to withdraw money from your paypal, this ebay forum discussion is a good resource. Many people sharing their experiences - good and bad. Only thing is it starts from the year 2005. So, there is many, many posts to sit through.

Anyway, I just wanted to sound out this warning about MalaysiaPal so others don't get duped like me. There are other websites promoting it. So, here's the warning:

WARNING: If you see the MalaysiaPal ebook, don't get too excited. One of the methods has gotten people into trouble - funds getting stuck, accounts suspended. The information can be found free.

The Many Uses Of A Kitchen Timer

A kitchen timer is a very useful gadget when it comes to parenting. I have found that it can do more than just help remind me not to burn the cake. Here are some other handy use for a kitchen timer:
1. For parents that have started on potty training.
Use the timer to remind the child when it is time to go potty. You can set it to 45 minutes - 1 hour. Tell your child every time it rings, it is calling him/her to go potty.

2. For slow eaters.
Use the timer to specify how long it should take for them to finish the meal. Of course, be realistic on the time and then add a few more extra minutes so they don't choke down their food. You can offer a reward if the food is finished within the specified time. No punishment if they didn't. I find that it helped my children concentrate on their eating. You know how some children are? As they are eating, they minds are wondering somewhere else or they are still in 'play' mode. So they either keep the food in the mouth for long periods or are busy playing / yakking they are not putting food in their mouth. With the timer in front of them, it keeps them focus at the task at hand.

3. For those who take an eternity to bath.
Use the timer to tell them when they need to be out of the bathroom (preferably already bathed PROPERLY).

4. For those who are learning to share.
Use the timer to help them take turns. When the timer rings, they need to give the other person a turn.

If you think of other ways to use the kitchen timer, let me know.

Story Of A Clean Plate

What's the story behind this clean plate? Well, one of my pet peeves is having to wash a plate that is still full of rice and stuff. So, I have been constantly telling my children to clean their plate. Well, this is what my daughter presented to me today (and yesterday). She has been really trying hard to clean up the plate. As a reward, mommy here promised to show all the 'aunties' and 'uncles' what a good job she has done. Oh, almost forgot. She also wanted me to tell the whole world that she ate her vegetables. Thumbs up for you my girl!


On the other hand, here is D giving me a hard time with his eating again. When he was just a toddler, he was very good and would insist he feed himself. Now that he is older and able to feed himself, he insists that someone feeds him (rolling eyes). He is getting really skinny and so we try to push for him to finish his food; something that he hasn't been doing very well lately. I try to encourage him by calling him "my tiger", do the aeroplane / choo choo train thingy and what not, but my patience tends to wear out especially when I have to hold a squirmy, cranky baby and try to feed him at the same time. But must also give him credit for eventually cleaning up the plate. Also regained my head and apologized for the bit of screaming. My sweet D who never had problems eating, where are you and come back to me!

VALUE BOOKSHOP'S LUCKY DRAW IS STILL ON.
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Try This To Create Content Quickly

This one is for all you parents (and non parents too) out there trying to earn extra money through adsense and affiliate programs. Guru after guru will tell you that having good content on your website is essential to attracting traffic. However, unless you are a writing wizard, preparing articles can be time consuming and brain cramping.

This is where ContentSolution comes to your rescue.

What is it? It is a content creation tool. One of the things it allows you to do is to grab content from article directories, SEs, RSS feeds or your own text files and help you rewrite it into hundreds of unique copies. You can create as much content as you want and download it in ANY format you want - html, txt, pdf, or RSS

Go ahead and test drive it.

IT'S FREE until May 7th. Download a copy here:
CONTENT SOLUTION V2.0

It's a totally no-strings-attached offer. On May 8th, you can decide if you want to purchase it or not. Plus, just for trying it over the next month, you'll get an automatic $30 off if you want to purchase.

Once again, THIS IS FREE for now.

It's A Good Thing I'm Poor

Sometimes I wish I was in a position where I do not have to be overly concerned about money; that I could do what I want, eat what I want, and buy what I want. Of course I'm not only thinking about myself but also my children. I wish I could give them more.

But you know what, ironically, it is because I have limited funds, that I have actually given (and still am giving) my children more. Here is a list of how my children, and sometimes myself, have benefited from our unfavorable situation:

1. Breastfeeding
My initial motivation to breastfeed was because it would cost money to buy formula milk. Why buy something that I can provide for free? Of course, it also helped to learn later that breastmilk is the best nutrition for the baby. You know how some mothers would initially try to breastfeed and then due to circumstances or lack of support, they succumb and give in to formula milk. Well, in my mind I just refused to spend money on formula milk. So right from the beginning, I was determined to make it work, no matter what. I eliminated all other options. And therefore my children were able to enjoy (and baby is still enjoying) exclusive breastmilk.

2. Baby wearing
I often see mothers put their baby in a carrier or stroller. And sometimes I do envy that the babies have been trained to sleep in those things without a fuss. Me? I carried my baby everywhere and almost all the time. I've had my share of comments that I shouldn't carry baby so much because they will be spoiled. But I can't help it, I love to hold them when they are newly born. By the time they get a bit heavier, they already don't like to be put down.
Anyway, getting a good stroller or carrier is expensive. And then they outgrow such things quite fast too. (I don't believe in putting a toddler who can walk on a stroller. I notice most toddlers don't want to be constraint in a stroller by then too anyway.) Furthermore, you don't use them all the time. It didnt seem like a good investment (it's okay if you want to beg to differ). So, instead of strollers or carriers, I used a sling instead.

Now I learn that "baby wearing" is actually good for the babies. Some of the advantages of baby wearing:
- Research has shown that baby wearing practice results in babies that cry less.
- Because they don't spend so much time on crying, they learn more. So, it's good for them intellectually as well.
- The closeness increases bonding, gives baby a sense of security and trust. All these needed to enhance baby's growth and health.

So, nevermind my arms, shoulder and back aches because of too much carrying. No need to envy those mother's who train their baby's to sleep in the stroller/carrier instead of in their arms. Baby wearing is a good thing.

3. Co-sleeping
Baby cribs cost a lot. Not only that, I really don't have place to put one too. So, all my babies sleep with me. I have no complaints here. I love sleeping with my babies. Co-sleeping and breastfeeding together has given me the chance to have enough rest at night. I don't need to get up to check on or feed baby. I just need to roll onto my side. I let baby feed and I sleep on.
No real problems on getting them to sleep on their own beds when they're older. I have successfully kicked the older two kids from off my bed to make way for baby.

4. Freedom of play
We moved away from the city because the rent is cheaper. In our current neighbourhood, the children can play outside without the worries of heavy traffic. Of course they are still reminded to watch out for the occasional car, but compared to before, they at least can play outside.

5. Fresh air and clean water
Away from the city, the air here is fresher and the water cleaner.

6. Creative play
I can't afford to buy expensive toys. I don't buy much toys actually. Because of this, the kids use their creativity and imagination using ordinary, inexpensive and even recycleable stuff. They can have hours of fun with a cardboard box and find multiple uses for a skipping rope.

7. Homeschooling
Kindergarten these days are too heavy on the pockets. Thus the decision to homeschool them. No homework pressures. One-to-one tutoring from me. We read and learn from storybooks, and get to choose fun worksheets and activities to do.

8. Better diet
Before, when we were living in PJ, there were many nights we would go out for supper. 'Mamak' and desserts were a big temptation. Now that we've moved, these temptations have been removed. We hardly eat outside food anymore as we are too far away from the shops.

9. Uncluttered life
If I had lots of money, I think I would enroll my children in tons of extra-curricular activities like music class, swim lessons, art lessons, gymnastics, chinese tuition etc.... I think I would end up being a 'kiasu' parent. But since I don't have a lot of money to spend, my children get to enjoy an uncluttered lifestyle. They are not chauffered from one class to another, only to come home exhausted. They spend their energy developing their skills through play and they are the dictators of their learning (to a certain extend).

10. Cloth diapering
You must agree that disposable diapers takes a chunk out of your wallet. Recently, I've considered cloth diapering to cut down the costs. Now, you must be thinking "No way Jose am I going to use cloth diapers. They are messy and will give my baby rashes." I agree with you. Using the traditional cloth diapers ('lampin') is a big hassle. But now we are in the modern age and there are modern cloth diapers. I just purchased a bunch (Bum Genius) from Mia Bambina (free shipping) and they are pretty good. The diaper is adjustable to 3 different sizes so I don't have to worry about my baby outgrowing them. They are pocket diapers, meaning there is a pocket for you to stuff an insert that absorbs all the wetness. Quite fantastic actually. The soaker is wet but the layer against baby's butt is dry. So, I can actually use one cloth diaper for 4-5 hours (that is if baby doesn't poo). And, it works throughout the night too. Initial investment in these modern cloth diapers may feel like a lot, but if you work out the expenses over 1-2 years, you really do save a lot.
If I wasn't pressed to save money, I wouldn't have considered using cloth diapers. And they are actually better for baby's butt as well -- no rashes. Oh, and no leaks too.

Well, I'm only human and can't help wanting to be better off financially. But I guess God knows me and has blessed me with poverty. Hahahah. Goodness knows the path I would have taken if I had plenty of money to spend. So although I feel financially restricted, more good than bad has come out of it.

Mommy's Time Out

When we have kids, our world automatically starts revolving around them. And for us SAHM (stay-at-home-moms), this usually resuts in 'comfortable', 'convenient', 'easy', and 'practical' dressing. This can get quite boring and don't you agree that sometimes, it's nice to look nice.

Well, take a time out mommies. And daddies, pay attention! (Hint, hint) I found a Malaysian online jewelry store and for now, they are having a CLEARANCE SALE FROM 10%-50%. They have earrings, bracelets, brooch, necklaces, pendants, hair accessories etc.... You know, all the girly-girly stuff.

Go take a look. If not now, maybe some other time. I am putting their banner on this blog. Ladies, treat yourself to something nice. If not, hint for DH to do so. Just choose what you want and let him hit the pay button. Hahahah. Also a good option if you need to find a gift for someone. Little girls love these stuff too. I know coz' I have a little girl myself.

VALUE BOOKSHOPS FIRST LUCKY DRAW CONTEST

DO YOU WANT A RM20 GIFT VOUCHER FOR FREE?
Value Bookshop is having their 1st lucky draw contest.
.

What do you have to do?
Visit Value Bookshop and scroll down to "Karina's Korner" to locate her contest questions. Leave your answers as comments at the contest blog post over at Value Bookshop's blog. Your name will then be entered into our lucky draw box. One name will be picked out at the end of the month, and that name will receive a complimentary RM20 gift voucher.Easy peasy right?

Now, don't be selfish and invite your friends to join this contest. Email them (you can use our bookshop's tell-a-friend feature) or blog about the contest with a link to the contest blog post.
The permalink is:

http://blog.valuebookshop.com/2007/value-bookshops-first-lucky-draw-contest

Help me liven things up at the store and you can look forward to more contests and more prizes.

Contest ends on the 30th April 2007. Drawing will be on the 1st May 2007. Announcement of the winner will be done on the same day as the drawing. Make sure you leave us your email address so we can send you your prize.

So try your luck. Enter our contest and earn yourself a shot at becoming Value Bookshop's first lucky draw winner!

Protective Brother

When a new baby is due, you wonder how the older siblings will respond to the new addition. Well, as in my case, it has made D into a very protective brother. When we go to church, it is natural that all the 'aunties' there want to hold the baby. And you know how 'aunties' are, they also like to tease the older siblings too. One of the questions they always ask D (as they are holding baby) is "Can I take baby home?" Let me tell you, never ever ask D that question if you treasure your life. He will fiercely tell you NO. If you ask again, or try to coax him by saying "Can-lah", you will get an even louder NO, plus added physical abuse such as getting kicked or punched in the legs. And his emotion is so intense that getting him to stop takes some effort.

One time he came upstairs after his Sunday School class and saw my friend carrying the baby. His immediate respond was "Why are you holding my baby?"
Even I was not spared; "Mommy, why you let other people hold baby?"
I've tried to explain to him that it's good that baby has soooo much love from many people. But that doesn't help coz' in his mind, baby is his and his alone.

In a way, this protectiveness is good. He is quick to help take care of baby like wiping off drool, bouncing the bouncing net and bringing me all the things needed to clean baby.

Well, just thought I'd let you all know about this. You can carry baby but beware of the protective brother.

Relaxing Bath

Took this picture coz' I thought it was hilarious. Here I am giving baby his evening bath and he refused to wake up. This baby is so funny. When we want him to sleep, he doesn't want to sleep. And when he finally sleeps, we are so careful not to do anything to wake him up. But when it's time to wake up, you can do anything and he won't want to wake up.

Ahhh, I think many of us need a relaxing bath like this sometimes, yes?

Who Do I Look Like?

I had some fun putting together this little scrap. When we had Karina, we didn't use much of a digicam. Most of the photos were blurr. Poor girl. Her better photos are in a photo album. And look at Damus! Look at his hair! Hahaha. So much and so crazy. It was a good decision to give it an army cut.

Anyway, the reason why I did this scrap was because when you have a baby, people will start making comments about who they look like. With my first two, people would compare them to us, the parents. But with Danic, his looks has been compared to the sis/bro rather than the parents. Quite interesting actually.

So far, I've had mixed comments. Some say he looks like the sister and some say he looks like the brother. I thought I'd put their baby photos next to each other to see who was right.
What do you think? Does Danic look like the sister or the brother?

Earn Money Referring Home Tutors

Came across a website called Tuitionmall.com that offers to pay you RM50.00 when you successfully refer their tutor / tuition teacher to your friend.

Successfull referral = Your friend actually engages the services of the tutor = You earn RM50

Many of us are looking to earn some extra pocket money. It's pretty obvious coz' almost every blog we visit now, people are writing paid reviews on their blog. Unfortunately, payment is either a US cheque (takes a long time to get to Malaysia) or through paypal (Malaysians can't cash out). Well, here is an option right at your doorstep. A referral program that you can cash out. Woohoo!
Afterschool tuition classes is not only a norm here in Malaysia, but many even consider it a necessity. So, why don't we take advantage of the situation and fill our pockets while helping out a friend?

Click here for the referral page:
Tuitionmall.com refer a friend program

p.s. I haven't tried out this referral program yet coz' I just came across it. So I'm not sure if it's legitimate. But it's worth a try. If you actually get paid before I do, let me know ok.

Deep Thoughts and Conversation

As I put down the phone:

K: Who is that mommy?
Me: Aunty
K: Which aunty?
Me: My step-mother
K: You have a step-mother?
Me: Yes.
K: How come? Did Amah die?
Me: No. She's in Seremban isn't she?
K: Then how come you have a step-mother?
Me: Amah and Ah Kong had a divorce and Ah Kong married another wife.
K: What is divorce?
Me: (cracking my head)...ummm... it means getting un-married. Divorce is like cancelling your marriage.

Thank goodness she didn't ask why they wanted to cancel their marriage.
Thought the conversation had ended but the next day, one more question.

K: Mommy, then you stayed with Ah Kong ah?
Me: Huh?
K: You know, when Amah and Ah Kong got divorced, you stayed with Ah Kong is it?
Me:No, me and all your "Ah Koos" (uncles) stayed with Amah.
K: How come?
Me: Because we are closer to Amah.
K: Did you miss Ah Kong?
Me: Eeeerrrrr... not really.
K: Why?
Me: Because I was only 2 years old and don't know anything.
K: When you 2 years old, you don't know anything ah?
Me: Yes.

End of conversation.

I never really thought to explain my parents situation to my children. Kind of caught me by surprise when all these questions came up. Next time must be more prepared.

Creative Fun

Pomelo's are common during the Chinese New Year period. My SIL (sister-in-law) is very good at peeling the pomelo. Well, this year after peeling the pomelo, the skin ended up on my son's head instead of the dustbin. Look how nicely it fits. He very much enjoyed this "helmet" and said he would use it the next time he went bicycling. Hahahah. However, that never happened. It soon was converted into a hero's helmet and then later into a race car helmet.
His sister decided she was not going to miss out on the fun. Her head was a little bit too big for the "helmet". But nevermind, she found some other use for it. Check out teddy's new transport. They tied a rafia string to the pomelo skin and then pulled teddy around.

It's quite amazing what kids can do with the ordinary things they have. My mom got my children a skipping rope. After skipping, it was made into a telephone. Then into a microphone. Later, it was attached to my front door and made into a rock climbers rope. Get a stick and whalla, you have a fishing pole. Need to occupy your children for a few hours, get a skipping rope.
Observing my children got me an education on creativity. I guess giving them all those free hours to play does have its benefits.