Johnny can't read, sit still, or stop hitting the neighbour's kid. WHY?
More kids are getting brain cancer. WHY?
Our kids are the test subject for thousands of toxic chemicals. WHY?
Do you know that developmental, learning and behavioural disabilities are on the rise?
In recent years, childhood illness are mostly chronic. Asthma is the leading cause of hospitalisation. Cancer is the leading cause of death. Among children.
WHY?
The world we live in, our environment plays a huge part. Approximately 80,000 synthetic chemicals have been developed after 1940s. Many of them are found in our home. Toxins in homes account for 90% of all reported poisonings each year. Studies have shown that, on average, each of us is walking around contaminated by 27 different chemicals. Did you know that you probably have dangerous toxic solvents, carcinogenic sprays and gender-bending chemical cocktails in your kitchen cupboard?
Kids are more vulnerable to these toxins found in many of our household chemicals. They absorb more from the air, water and food becoz their bodies are smaller. Because they are also closer to the ground, they breathe in more toxins that settle on the ground. Crawling toddlers habitually put their hands into their mouth and are literally eating the toxins into their developing bodies.
EFFECTS
You might be thinking now, we have been using all these household chemicals but they still haven't killed us.
Think again.
More people are dying from cancer. What was it like before industrialisation?
The increase in number of kids diagnosed with ADHD, hyperactivity, learning disabilities, reduced school performace, aggression, asthma and cancer are increasing and getting too high.
Some development (language, attention, memory) impairments are permanent.
WHAT CAN WE DO?
Reduce exposures to these harmful toxins.
Simply, change your household cleaning products.
Call me... Hoonie at 90226060. Make the switch TODAY. Use natural, environmentally friendly, non-toxic and economical for your home.
The concern is real. do a search : 'household toxins'
I have some interesting website that i'll like to share with you.
CANCERactive : The Pollution of Our Children - http://www.iconmag.co.uk/page.php?n=202
CANCERactive : As Safe As Houses - http://www.iconmag.co.uk/page.php?n=203
Children and Toxics in Schools - http://www.rmbarry.com/research/toxics_schools.html
Learn About Chemicals Around Your House - http://www.epa.gov/kidshometour/
Children & Toxic Chemicals in the Home - www.rmbarry.com/research/toxics_children.html
Please... Protect Yourself from Household Toxins - http://antiagingchoices.com/cleaning_products/household_toxins.htm
Household Cleaners : What you don't know can hurt you - http://www.corecharacter.com/2006/05/post_5.html
How "Fresh" Is Air Freshener - http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1664954,00.html
exposures to certain kinds of phthalates (found in air freshener) can cause cancer, developmental and sex-hormone abnormalities (including decreased testosterone and sperm levels and malformed sex organs) in infants, and can affect fertility.
Formaldehyde & Cancer - http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/risk/formaldehyde
formaldehyde is found in many household items
Improve your indoor air - http://www.checnet.org/healthehouse/education/top10-detail.asp?Top10_Cat_ID=6
Monday, November 17, 2008
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Singaporeans are a funny lot
Singaporeans are a funny lot.
Why?
Years back, we have to have campaigns.
Campaigns to teach us to be courteous.
Campaigns to remind us not to waste water.
Campaigns to 'Stop at 2'.
Campaigns to have 3 kids if we can afford them.
Then we need laws to teach us what we should not do.
We have to be fined for littering.
We have to ban chewing gum.
Now, we need a campaign to teach us to be gracious! My goodness. Are we not a developed country? Do we need to be taught simple things that every respectable human should know and do? To clear your table after you eat. Don't you do that at home?
I think it boils down to being considerate. Thinking for others. We are a selfish lot. And the scary thing is that our kids are learning to be like us. How many more generations will it take? For us to give up our seats to someone who needs it more than us, without signs to remind us. To clean up after ourselves, be it at a eating place, the restroom.
I see people throwing their trash on the floor when the dustbin is 5 steps away. I see a diaper conveniently stuffed on a shelf while shopping. I see a cup placed 'neatly' in the corner of a lift. I see people just walking away from their table after their meals, at IKEA, no doubt where their 'expectations' are so greatly spelled out, and collection points so clearly labelled.
When will we learn to be a gracious society? Maybe, just maybe this campaign might work! HA! If I'm a foreigner, I would think Singapore is a joke. But I'm Singaporean, and I really don't understand the actions of so many of my fellow men and women. *sigh*
Why?
Years back, we have to have campaigns.
Campaigns to teach us to be courteous.
Campaigns to remind us not to waste water.
Campaigns to 'Stop at 2'.
Campaigns to have 3 kids if we can afford them.
Then we need laws to teach us what we should not do.
We have to be fined for littering.
We have to ban chewing gum.
Now, we need a campaign to teach us to be gracious! My goodness. Are we not a developed country? Do we need to be taught simple things that every respectable human should know and do? To clear your table after you eat. Don't you do that at home?
I think it boils down to being considerate. Thinking for others. We are a selfish lot. And the scary thing is that our kids are learning to be like us. How many more generations will it take? For us to give up our seats to someone who needs it more than us, without signs to remind us. To clean up after ourselves, be it at a eating place, the restroom.
I see people throwing their trash on the floor when the dustbin is 5 steps away. I see a diaper conveniently stuffed on a shelf while shopping. I see a cup placed 'neatly' in the corner of a lift. I see people just walking away from their table after their meals, at IKEA, no doubt where their 'expectations' are so greatly spelled out, and collection points so clearly labelled.
When will we learn to be a gracious society? Maybe, just maybe this campaign might work! HA! If I'm a foreigner, I would think Singapore is a joke. But I'm Singaporean, and I really don't understand the actions of so many of my fellow men and women. *sigh*
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Anger? Is it necessary?
I watch in amusement as the little girl pouts and stomps her way around the playground. She was so filled with anger, but what got her angry in the first place, was a mystery to me. Her anger further amuses a group of boys, who continue to taunt her by imitating her every move, and making her more angry. They were so amused by her anger. This mix of emotions, anger and amusement continues to escalate as they shadowed her around the playground.
The maid of the angry child noticed the harassment and feelings of the child but just brushed it off and told her to stop it. She was also busy watching over a younger toddler and at the same time trying to communicate with some other maids at the playground.
I pitied the little girl and told the boys that what they were doing is not nice. I did not totally blame the boys for doing that. I think most kids do not know how to feel for others, the amusement they got overshadowed empathy. Ironically, they chose happiness over anger.
My two elder boys were observing the children. Was I glad that they were not joining in the taunting! They were just watching the scene being played out, in real life. 'Pang guan ze qing' = Outsiders see a clearer picture. That gave me a good lesson to teach them. I always tell them to choose happiness. Teach them that they are the ones in charge of how they feel, always trying to encourage them to make right choices.
Firstly, the girl chose anger. She chose to be angry when she reached the playground. Instead she could always choose happiness, choose to enjoy herself while at the playground although there were other children around. When the boys started to imitate her, she chose to be more angry. She could ignore them? But yet she chose to let their actions increase the anger.
In fact, I pity the girl. Her anger was ignored. Her parents were not there to teach her to choose happiness. The maid brushed off her feelings as she had to look after a younger child. Was the angry girl jealous of the attention her sibling is getting? Was she angry over having no time spent with her parents? Was she angry that her feelings were ignored? Or was she just an angry person? Should she then be taught anger management? Maybe just more attention and love shown to her would make a difference?
This is also the main reason why I would want to be the main caregiver to my children, especially in their early childhood. I can feel and understand how they feel, or at least try to understand them. I want to be there to tell them and remind them to make right choices. I want to be there to protect them. I want to know what they go through. That is what a mother is. Being there for the children as much as possible. And I am glad that I spent the time with my kids.
The maid of the angry child noticed the harassment and feelings of the child but just brushed it off and told her to stop it. She was also busy watching over a younger toddler and at the same time trying to communicate with some other maids at the playground.
I pitied the little girl and told the boys that what they were doing is not nice. I did not totally blame the boys for doing that. I think most kids do not know how to feel for others, the amusement they got overshadowed empathy. Ironically, they chose happiness over anger.
My two elder boys were observing the children. Was I glad that they were not joining in the taunting! They were just watching the scene being played out, in real life. 'Pang guan ze qing' = Outsiders see a clearer picture. That gave me a good lesson to teach them. I always tell them to choose happiness. Teach them that they are the ones in charge of how they feel, always trying to encourage them to make right choices.
Firstly, the girl chose anger. She chose to be angry when she reached the playground. Instead she could always choose happiness, choose to enjoy herself while at the playground although there were other children around. When the boys started to imitate her, she chose to be more angry. She could ignore them? But yet she chose to let their actions increase the anger.
In fact, I pity the girl. Her anger was ignored. Her parents were not there to teach her to choose happiness. The maid brushed off her feelings as she had to look after a younger child. Was the angry girl jealous of the attention her sibling is getting? Was she angry over having no time spent with her parents? Was she angry that her feelings were ignored? Or was she just an angry person? Should she then be taught anger management? Maybe just more attention and love shown to her would make a difference?
This is also the main reason why I would want to be the main caregiver to my children, especially in their early childhood. I can feel and understand how they feel, or at least try to understand them. I want to be there to tell them and remind them to make right choices. I want to be there to protect them. I want to know what they go through. That is what a mother is. Being there for the children as much as possible. And I am glad that I spent the time with my kids.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Sand... hate it? or love it?
Sand... it can be so irksome, irritating to the feet, dirty, such that you never want your little feet to touch it, curling it up, avoiding it at all costs! But all that feelings can be changed into pure love for it in that one moment, that one special moment where all hatred is turned into love.
Deshann finally realised the wonderful world of sand! He had always hated it, never wanting to have anything to do with it. Brought him to the beach twice and he just refused to be put down, clinging onto you for his dear life, as if the sandy beach will just swallow him up.
Went to Shore Restaurant for yet another birthday dinner for Eunice and Robin (haha.. this is the 3rd birthday dinner for them!) Shore Restaurant is a beautiful laidback place. You eat on the beach! Yes, tables are set up on the beach and the wonderful sea breeze... really nice place to chill out... :) And there is a big playground just beside it! The kids had a whirl of a time expending all their energy there after dinner.
Little Deshann had a 'whee'-ing good time on the infant swing, as did Deshawn, Andrea and Ariel. Asking to be swung higher, enjoying the thrill of flight. Still cautious to the sandy playground, Deshann felt 'safe' in the swing as he was thoroughly enjoying himself, so much so that when he was placed on the ground, he forget about his 'enemy'. His cheeky self just all of a sudden felt the sand, and for once, he did not wince about it. He did not ask to be carried. Instead, he felt the sand and loved it! Was walking around on it, kicking it, soon running on it, then scooping it up with his crocs, pouring it, raining it down and just relishing the sandy touch on his little feet. Exploring the texture of sand. Loving it so much that he did not want to leave the sandpit when it's time to go.
Maybe it's the stage of growing, the time when you just want to test your limits, try everything! Haha! We can now pack our beach toys and head for East Coast Park again!
I always tell my kids, "Try it. You won't know if you like it or not till you try it!" And I observe that the older they are, the least likely of them trying new things. Just as the older we get, the lower the possibility of us doing something way out of the norm. So sometimes we got to be childlike, be more adventurous and venture out of the comfort zone. Enrich your kids life by letting them try as many things as possible. Expose them, enrich them, explore life.
Deshann finally realised the wonderful world of sand! He had always hated it, never wanting to have anything to do with it. Brought him to the beach twice and he just refused to be put down, clinging onto you for his dear life, as if the sandy beach will just swallow him up.
Went to Shore Restaurant for yet another birthday dinner for Eunice and Robin (haha.. this is the 3rd birthday dinner for them!) Shore Restaurant is a beautiful laidback place. You eat on the beach! Yes, tables are set up on the beach and the wonderful sea breeze... really nice place to chill out... :) And there is a big playground just beside it! The kids had a whirl of a time expending all their energy there after dinner.
Little Deshann had a 'whee'-ing good time on the infant swing, as did Deshawn, Andrea and Ariel. Asking to be swung higher, enjoying the thrill of flight. Still cautious to the sandy playground, Deshann felt 'safe' in the swing as he was thoroughly enjoying himself, so much so that when he was placed on the ground, he forget about his 'enemy'. His cheeky self just all of a sudden felt the sand, and for once, he did not wince about it. He did not ask to be carried. Instead, he felt the sand and loved it! Was walking around on it, kicking it, soon running on it, then scooping it up with his crocs, pouring it, raining it down and just relishing the sandy touch on his little feet. Exploring the texture of sand. Loving it so much that he did not want to leave the sandpit when it's time to go.
Maybe it's the stage of growing, the time when you just want to test your limits, try everything! Haha! We can now pack our beach toys and head for East Coast Park again!
I always tell my kids, "Try it. You won't know if you like it or not till you try it!" And I observe that the older they are, the least likely of them trying new things. Just as the older we get, the lower the possibility of us doing something way out of the norm. So sometimes we got to be childlike, be more adventurous and venture out of the comfort zone. Enrich your kids life by letting them try as many things as possible. Expose them, enrich them, explore life.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Coincidences
How coincidental can you have 2 brothers-in-law (one, your sister's husband, one, your husband's brother) having the same birthday? Which is a day after yours? hahaha! confused? Well, that's my sister!
What about also having 2 brothers-in-law in the airforce, who went to USA too? That's my sister too!
What about your sister camping in a forest with a dear friend she got to know in far away USA chatting and finally realising that that friend is a long-lost secondary schoolmate of yours? haha.. that's my sister too!
The world of coincidences. How small the world is. So whatever you do, someone, somewhere, sometime, it will be linked back to you! So make sure you live a life you will be proud of! ;)
What about also having 2 brothers-in-law in the airforce, who went to USA too? That's my sister too!
What about your sister camping in a forest with a dear friend she got to know in far away USA chatting and finally realising that that friend is a long-lost secondary schoolmate of yours? haha.. that's my sister too!
The world of coincidences. How small the world is. So whatever you do, someone, somewhere, sometime, it will be linked back to you! So make sure you live a life you will be proud of! ;)
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Friends, lovers, couples, partners
Humans cannot live alone. We are a social being. So relationships exist. Different kinds of relationship, for we play different roles.
Friendships.... we choose our friends, sometimes our friends choose us. How do we choose our friends? By common interests, common thinking, common goals, common schools... but as humans there are always differences. Are we willing to accept these differences? Do we accept the person for who he/she is? Or do we project our expectations on these friends and expect them to do as we do?
A dear friend mentioned about this saying she read... You judge people by what you are... I agree with it. How you think, how you reason, largely plays a part with how you view others. So be slow to judge, look at the situation from different angles, different views, through different coloured glasses... and do not expect people to think or act like you. Be quick to forgive, faster to forget. Life will be happier.
In a marriage, time dims the romance. Complacency, getting too comfortable sometimes makes life boring. Marriage is how you work things out. Just like any relationship. When kids comes, focus change. But it's always how you compromise, to bring you to many more years of wedded bliss. It might not be as blissful as it was, but always remember the commitment you made, the vows that you promised, the love that you shared. The love is always there.. somewhere deep within you, the spark just needs to be flamed, give it a gentle blow, let it breathe a little more.
Life is always what you make it out to be. Choose happiness, not anger. Laugh a little more, sing louder, dance crazily, give someone a hug, RIGHT NOW!
;) cheers!
Friendships.... we choose our friends, sometimes our friends choose us. How do we choose our friends? By common interests, common thinking, common goals, common schools... but as humans there are always differences. Are we willing to accept these differences? Do we accept the person for who he/she is? Or do we project our expectations on these friends and expect them to do as we do?
A dear friend mentioned about this saying she read... You judge people by what you are... I agree with it. How you think, how you reason, largely plays a part with how you view others. So be slow to judge, look at the situation from different angles, different views, through different coloured glasses... and do not expect people to think or act like you. Be quick to forgive, faster to forget. Life will be happier.
In a marriage, time dims the romance. Complacency, getting too comfortable sometimes makes life boring. Marriage is how you work things out. Just like any relationship. When kids comes, focus change. But it's always how you compromise, to bring you to many more years of wedded bliss. It might not be as blissful as it was, but always remember the commitment you made, the vows that you promised, the love that you shared. The love is always there.. somewhere deep within you, the spark just needs to be flamed, give it a gentle blow, let it breathe a little more.
Life is always what you make it out to be. Choose happiness, not anger. Laugh a little more, sing louder, dance crazily, give someone a hug, RIGHT NOW!
;) cheers!
Friday, July 11, 2008
The beauty of the internet
I wrote my last blog with intentions totally different from what i posted. It's wierd how my brain thinks, as I write too many thoughts run. So now, let's get back to what I originally intended!
3 friends, 3 time-zones, 3 countries. All meeting at one place. The internet. Chatting like we're over the dinner table.
Time and space is no longer an issue with the internet. Thoughts shared, feelings spilled, anything can be said, so much more easily over the internet. Maybe it's much easier to say out our true innermost feelings when we don't have to face the person? We don't have to worry about the other getting angry or sad, we don't have to worry about the initial reaction, don't have to deal with tears.
As we grow, we learn what is prim and proper. Courtesy, civility to others. Kids let out their true feelings because they have not yet learned what is the 'norm', what is the 'right' behaviour. Sometimes should we go back to being a kid, and learn from them? Say what we feel, instead of putting up a false front? Being more true, but at the same time, more willing to forgive and forget?
3 friends, 3 time-zones, 3 countries. All meeting at one place. The internet. Chatting like we're over the dinner table.
Time and space is no longer an issue with the internet. Thoughts shared, feelings spilled, anything can be said, so much more easily over the internet. Maybe it's much easier to say out our true innermost feelings when we don't have to face the person? We don't have to worry about the other getting angry or sad, we don't have to worry about the initial reaction, don't have to deal with tears.
As we grow, we learn what is prim and proper. Courtesy, civility to others. Kids let out their true feelings because they have not yet learned what is the 'norm', what is the 'right' behaviour. Sometimes should we go back to being a kid, and learn from them? Say what we feel, instead of putting up a false front? Being more true, but at the same time, more willing to forgive and forget?
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Changes of lifestyle
3 friends, in 3 countries, in 3 different time zones chatting together on the internet. Whoever will thought it possible 20 years ago... back then it was the mailman who brought news, or maybe a telegram from the post office...
Can u imagine one day without technology in your life? The handphone. We'll have to arrange to meet through a letter, confirm the meeting, be there on time, no last minute changes. hmmm... will we meet up then?
One day without electricity... oh my goodness.. can we function at all?
Came back one day to a lift that did not work. An elderly lady did not even dare to enter the lift. I checked with the guard and they said there was a test on the system. In that few minutes, a mini crowd gathered. I mean, can't we use the stairs? People used to walk miles but now we can't walk up a flight of stairs.. make that 5 for me. I headed up. I did not want to wait. At the 5th floor, I panted. I am weak. In need of exercise.. Is the gym where we need to go for exercise? Shouldn't physical activity be a normal part of life?
I'm heading to Chiang Mai for a holiday.. for a back to nature and basics holiday. I wonder how I will survive.. that'll be in Dec with the boys scout (my uncle is in the scouts, so we're tagging along!). We'll see how we manage then..
Can u imagine one day without technology in your life? The handphone. We'll have to arrange to meet through a letter, confirm the meeting, be there on time, no last minute changes. hmmm... will we meet up then?
One day without electricity... oh my goodness.. can we function at all?
Came back one day to a lift that did not work. An elderly lady did not even dare to enter the lift. I checked with the guard and they said there was a test on the system. In that few minutes, a mini crowd gathered. I mean, can't we use the stairs? People used to walk miles but now we can't walk up a flight of stairs.. make that 5 for me. I headed up. I did not want to wait. At the 5th floor, I panted. I am weak. In need of exercise.. Is the gym where we need to go for exercise? Shouldn't physical activity be a normal part of life?
I'm heading to Chiang Mai for a holiday.. for a back to nature and basics holiday. I wonder how I will survive.. that'll be in Dec with the boys scout (my uncle is in the scouts, so we're tagging along!). We'll see how we manage then..
Friday, July 04, 2008
Asiaone : Penalise riders who do not give up seats to those in need
reading all the comments that were written makes me feel that Singapore is becoming more and more a selfish and inconsiderate society. Chivalry is gone to the wind. Now, I can hear all the guys saying... 'ya, only expect the men to give up their seats'. Guys, have you been pregnant? Do you know how tiring it can be? During the first 3 months of pregnancy, you are just physically tired even before you start to show. Your body is going through so many changes you lose track of it. The last 3 months is even more stressful on the back, go tie a medicine ball on your abdomen and carry that for a few days, DO NOT REMOVE IT AT ALL TIMES.
I do not think it necessary to penalise someone. Do we need to become a society where graciousness have to be coerced? We have already become such a 'fine' society. No where else in the world are there penalties for being ungracious. Maybe that is because graciousness is within themselves? Simple things like clearing your table, throwing your trash into a dustbin.
My sis went to Bangkok and boarded the train (similar to MRT). She has 3 young kids, and was with her husband and 2 adult friends. A few passengers willingly gave up their seats for the kids. They could be just as tired, but they understand that kids need it more than them. They did not complain, they did not pretend to sleep, they are gracious.
reading all the comments that were written makes me feel that Singapore is becoming more and more a selfish and inconsiderate society. Chivalry is gone to the wind. Now, I can hear all the guys saying... 'ya, only expect the men to give up their seats'. Guys, have you been pregnant? Do you know how tiring it can be? During the first 3 months of pregnancy, you are just physically tired even before you start to show. Your body is going through so many changes you lose track of it. The last 3 months is even more stressful on the back, go tie a medicine ball on your abdomen and carry that for a few days, DO NOT REMOVE IT AT ALL TIMES.
I do not think it necessary to penalise someone. Do we need to become a society where graciousness have to be coerced? We have already become such a 'fine' society. No where else in the world are there penalties for being ungracious. Maybe that is because graciousness is within themselves? Simple things like clearing your table, throwing your trash into a dustbin.
My sis went to Bangkok and boarded the train (similar to MRT). She has 3 young kids, and was with her husband and 2 adult friends. A few passengers willingly gave up their seats for the kids. They could be just as tired, but they understand that kids need it more than them. They did not complain, they did not pretend to sleep, they are gracious.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Breastfeeding
I've done it for all 3 boys. And I do not hide while doing it. No, I'm not going to restrict myself to a nursing room or dressing room for that 20 mins. I shop and feed, I eat and feed, I people-watch and feed, I even hike and feed. And no, I do not expose my breast, I just do it. I have people coming to me while I'm breast-feeding and they think that baby is sleeping. Only when I mention that I'm breastfeeding do they realise that, turn red and excuse themselves.
Reading Baby's Room = Diaper Change Room = Nursing Room = Family Room = Not Breastfeeding Room? and the comments posted, I think we have to learn to be more considerate. We are all mothers, and we understand what it's like to be one. I think the lady wanting to change the diaper can just ask if we can share the room. The writer, Linda Koh, can just offer to share the room. It seems that Linda's husband is telling them that the room is used and cannot be shared. If we are more tolerant, more considerate, I think life would be more pleasant. Sometimes, it just makes someone's day to see a smile, so smile, laugh, it'll make you happier too.
Reading Baby's Room = Diaper Change Room = Nursing Room = Family Room = Not Breastfeeding Room? and the comments posted, I think we have to learn to be more considerate. We are all mothers, and we understand what it's like to be one. I think the lady wanting to change the diaper can just ask if we can share the room. The writer, Linda Koh, can just offer to share the room. It seems that Linda's husband is telling them that the room is used and cannot be shared. If we are more tolerant, more considerate, I think life would be more pleasant. Sometimes, it just makes someone's day to see a smile, so smile, laugh, it'll make you happier too.
Abuse of maid
Some actions of Singaporeans are really to be laughed at. It's totally ridiculous and a great big joke. 'Jailed and fined for drawing on maid's face'
I never understand how one can pour scalding water on someone, use a hot iron to burn someone. These despicable acts are from people from respectable jobs. Few weeks ago, another couple, an aircraft engineer and air stewardess, were sent to jail for ill-treating their maid. As I read the headline today, I was laughing my guts out. What a childish thing to do! Drawing lines on your maid's face? My goodness!! Would you draw lines on your child's face if he/she does not close the door properly?
A maid is not a slave. You do not own her, so you treat her with respect. Well, unless you want your children to treat you such when you are old and 'useless'.
I can't imagine what she is going to tell her children when she is in jail for that 3 weeks. 'Oh, I'm going on holiday.' hahaha... if her kids were older, maybe they will just pick up the newspaper and read the news? Boasting in school, 'My mum is in jail for drawing lines on my maid's face!!'
I do not have a maid, I avoid having one. I'm lucky I'm a SAHM. I want my kids to be independent. I want my kids to clean up after themselves. If you have a maid, think about what you want your kids to become. What if you have to send your maid back? How will the household be ran? Be appreciative to the help you receive from your maid. And maybe she'll be more appreciative to you. In the days of early Singapore, nannies or ah-mas take care of the house. They are treated like family, so why can't we do so now? Is affluence authority for you to act like beasts? Remember the golden rule, 'Treat others the way you want them to treat you'.
I never understand how one can pour scalding water on someone, use a hot iron to burn someone. These despicable acts are from people from respectable jobs. Few weeks ago, another couple, an aircraft engineer and air stewardess, were sent to jail for ill-treating their maid. As I read the headline today, I was laughing my guts out. What a childish thing to do! Drawing lines on your maid's face? My goodness!! Would you draw lines on your child's face if he/she does not close the door properly?
A maid is not a slave. You do not own her, so you treat her with respect. Well, unless you want your children to treat you such when you are old and 'useless'.
I can't imagine what she is going to tell her children when she is in jail for that 3 weeks. 'Oh, I'm going on holiday.' hahaha... if her kids were older, maybe they will just pick up the newspaper and read the news? Boasting in school, 'My mum is in jail for drawing lines on my maid's face!!'
I do not have a maid, I avoid having one. I'm lucky I'm a SAHM. I want my kids to be independent. I want my kids to clean up after themselves. If you have a maid, think about what you want your kids to become. What if you have to send your maid back? How will the household be ran? Be appreciative to the help you receive from your maid. And maybe she'll be more appreciative to you. In the days of early Singapore, nannies or ah-mas take care of the house. They are treated like family, so why can't we do so now? Is affluence authority for you to act like beasts? Remember the golden rule, 'Treat others the way you want them to treat you'.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Water
Water comprises 70% of our bodies. Water is an essential part of life. We can only live for a few days without water.
Has been trying to educate the boys on not wasting water. They turn on the tap full blast and leave it running while they slowly squeeze a pea-size of toothpaste on their toothbrush. At bathtime, they blast the shower head at the walls and door of the bathroom, while they stay mostly dry. We turn on the tap and there is water running. We take precious water for granted.
Was watching Planet Green last week on Discovery Channel, our favourite channel. It was talking about how people tapped spring waters by building long endless tunnels, and looking for new springs to keep the wells full. They are called 'fur-large', don't know the exact spelling and still trying to find out. Quickly grabbed the opportunity to tell the boys how much work they have to go to have clean water.
Received a bottle of NEWater on saturday, it was at Bedok Reservoir and learnt that Singapore International Water Week is held on 23-27 June 2008. Thought about how NEWater is recycled water. Are people receptive to drinking it? Researching a little bit further (it's simple nowadays, just search it on the internet...) I learnt that 82% of Sg'reans are prepared to drink NEWater. But then think about it, ain't waters from the reservoirs 'recycled' too? The mud in it, the poo of animals in it, ain't it as 'disgusting' if u think about it? Then think about the natural cycle of water... rain, evaporation, condensation.
Then did a bit more research... Water Facts. The earth is largely made up of water, but only about 0.007% of the earth's water is readily accessible for human use! Guess if someone comes up with some ingenious way of 'cleaning' water, he'll be a billionaire, made a hero, save the earth!
That is sometimes the irony of life ain't it. Water is so abundant yet so precious. Water... be grateful we have it running from the tap. Cheers!
Has been trying to educate the boys on not wasting water. They turn on the tap full blast and leave it running while they slowly squeeze a pea-size of toothpaste on their toothbrush. At bathtime, they blast the shower head at the walls and door of the bathroom, while they stay mostly dry. We turn on the tap and there is water running. We take precious water for granted.
Was watching Planet Green last week on Discovery Channel, our favourite channel. It was talking about how people tapped spring waters by building long endless tunnels, and looking for new springs to keep the wells full. They are called 'fur-large', don't know the exact spelling and still trying to find out. Quickly grabbed the opportunity to tell the boys how much work they have to go to have clean water.
Received a bottle of NEWater on saturday, it was at Bedok Reservoir and learnt that Singapore International Water Week is held on 23-27 June 2008. Thought about how NEWater is recycled water. Are people receptive to drinking it? Researching a little bit further (it's simple nowadays, just search it on the internet...) I learnt that 82% of Sg'reans are prepared to drink NEWater. But then think about it, ain't waters from the reservoirs 'recycled' too? The mud in it, the poo of animals in it, ain't it as 'disgusting' if u think about it? Then think about the natural cycle of water... rain, evaporation, condensation.
Then did a bit more research... Water Facts. The earth is largely made up of water, but only about 0.007% of the earth's water is readily accessible for human use! Guess if someone comes up with some ingenious way of 'cleaning' water, he'll be a billionaire, made a hero, save the earth!
That is sometimes the irony of life ain't it. Water is so abundant yet so precious. Water... be grateful we have it running from the tap. Cheers!
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Mindchamps...
Was at a book fair 2 weeks ago and signed up for this talk about Mindchamps (http://www.mindchamps.org/) Been seeing its ads in the papers so curiosity and wanting the best for our kids led us to attend the talk. A 3 hour talk and almost $3000 (paid by instalments) later.. we walked out hoping that it will empower our eldest son in his education when he starts primary sch and attends 7 months at Mindchamps.
Why did we sign up? I think this is effective.. It teaches the kid effective ways of learning. And not only that, they are to learn the champion mindset. Being positive, dreaming castles, aiming high. The power of the subconscious mind is largely untapped. Knowing how to use your whole brain will greatly empower you to remember more.
How effective is it? Demonstrations were shown, it is impressive, but I feel that is only the learning part of it, helping you to remember facts. But I think the real effectiveness of this course is not just helping memory, it is the mindset. Learning to be positive. We'll see how it works, when Deshane starts this next year.
Why did we sign up? I think this is effective.. It teaches the kid effective ways of learning. And not only that, they are to learn the champion mindset. Being positive, dreaming castles, aiming high. The power of the subconscious mind is largely untapped. Knowing how to use your whole brain will greatly empower you to remember more.
How effective is it? Demonstrations were shown, it is impressive, but I feel that is only the learning part of it, helping you to remember facts. But I think the real effectiveness of this course is not just helping memory, it is the mindset. Learning to be positive. We'll see how it works, when Deshane starts this next year.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Bedwetting
After tireless nights and days and years of bedwetting, suddenly I decided to do a search on bedwetting on the internet. Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bedwetting) tells me that bedwetting is involuntary. Before you think it is me, no, it is my 2 elder boys aged 4.5 and 6 years.
Yes, I've tried many ideas, clearing bladder before bed, waking them up after about 2 hours of sleep, limiting liquids just before bedtime. None of this seems to work, put them on diapers, then off diapers when I'm out of them, only to have the toilet full of hanging shorts/pants and a smelly bedroom. Then back to diapers, even caning them, doesn't help. So now, I finally have come to terms with it, it is involuntary and until their body is ready to be toilet-trained at night... there seems to be nothing I can do about it.
I think I might try the bedwetting alarm. I really hope it works. I'm sick of the idea of putting on diapers for my big boys.
But one thing really pisses me off. They pee, ok, it's involuntary, but can't they feel that they are wet? They can go on sleeping in their wet warm pee, until it is dry in the morning! gesh! boys...
Yes, I've tried many ideas, clearing bladder before bed, waking them up after about 2 hours of sleep, limiting liquids just before bedtime. None of this seems to work, put them on diapers, then off diapers when I'm out of them, only to have the toilet full of hanging shorts/pants and a smelly bedroom. Then back to diapers, even caning them, doesn't help. So now, I finally have come to terms with it, it is involuntary and until their body is ready to be toilet-trained at night... there seems to be nothing I can do about it.
I think I might try the bedwetting alarm. I really hope it works. I'm sick of the idea of putting on diapers for my big boys.
But one thing really pisses me off. They pee, ok, it's involuntary, but can't they feel that they are wet? They can go on sleeping in their wet warm pee, until it is dry in the morning! gesh! boys...
Friday, June 13, 2008
Moving house and shopping
It never seems to come to end. Moving. Putting all that I have amassed over the years of my life into boxes and unpacking my treasures into the new house.
In my 32 years, this will be the 15th house I will be living in. Crazy rite? And the craziest thing is that I am a collector. Unfortunately not a collector of antiques or anything of appreciating monetary value, but a collector of things that were a part of my life.
The amount of 'property' I own has accumulated to levels which I cannot contain in one house. This is crazy, I think it is time to start throwing things away. But what is worth nothing? or worth everything? That is the most difficult decision to make.
We lived in Arizona, USA the past 2 years. Feb 2006-Apr 2008. I had a whirl of a time shopping there. Added much much more to my house, having lots of business ideas, which have yet been put to action. (This reminds me that I've got to do something about that soon. Will update it here as soon as I get things going, so keep a lookout!) Shopping in USA is fun! You can get extremely good deals, that you will not be able to resist. Shopping in Singapore is really nothing compared to it. Imagine, I got a pair of crocs for my baby for less than USD10! HA! and most of the clothes I buy for my troop don't cost me more than USD5 apiece. And they are branded stuff, okie... Nike, Oshkosh, Timberland, Spiderman (Originals, not what you get at pasar malams) among others.
Well, we're back here in Singapore and I'm definitely not shopping unless I really really need it. I'm thrown back to reality. No more shopping haven for me.
Actually while packing to return to Singapore, questions run through me. A fire can just burn everything you own in a few seconds. Saw a video of how quickly a curtain caught fire and destroyed everything in that room. The question of how much I have amassed came. How quickly everything can be destroyed in that few seconds. Is it worth it all? Why not instead of spending the money on physical acquisitions, spend the money on acquiring experiences, going on holiday or even by being more philanthropic?
Just this week, I read about holidays taken by this family, which I think is a really good idea, to help others. They spent their holiday at an orphanage. First, you bring the children great joy by just being with them. Second, the gifts you bring are really necessities that they may need, but never will be able to dream of having. Third, you might just leave them feeling that you are indeed fortunate to be able to take that holiday, be on a plane, go to a new place, and be a bringer of great joy. There are many things that we take for granted. I think it is good to go places where people are not so well-off for us to learn to be more grateful. Maybe then life will be more meaningful.
OK, the more I write, the more I digress... I shall end here for today. I have more to ramble, which I will. I think I'm getting a hang of this!
In my 32 years, this will be the 15th house I will be living in. Crazy rite? And the craziest thing is that I am a collector. Unfortunately not a collector of antiques or anything of appreciating monetary value, but a collector of things that were a part of my life.
The amount of 'property' I own has accumulated to levels which I cannot contain in one house. This is crazy, I think it is time to start throwing things away. But what is worth nothing? or worth everything? That is the most difficult decision to make.
We lived in Arizona, USA the past 2 years. Feb 2006-Apr 2008. I had a whirl of a time shopping there. Added much much more to my house, having lots of business ideas, which have yet been put to action. (This reminds me that I've got to do something about that soon. Will update it here as soon as I get things going, so keep a lookout!) Shopping in USA is fun! You can get extremely good deals, that you will not be able to resist. Shopping in Singapore is really nothing compared to it. Imagine, I got a pair of crocs for my baby for less than USD10! HA! and most of the clothes I buy for my troop don't cost me more than USD5 apiece. And they are branded stuff, okie... Nike, Oshkosh, Timberland, Spiderman (Originals, not what you get at pasar malams) among others.
Well, we're back here in Singapore and I'm definitely not shopping unless I really really need it. I'm thrown back to reality. No more shopping haven for me.
Actually while packing to return to Singapore, questions run through me. A fire can just burn everything you own in a few seconds. Saw a video of how quickly a curtain caught fire and destroyed everything in that room. The question of how much I have amassed came. How quickly everything can be destroyed in that few seconds. Is it worth it all? Why not instead of spending the money on physical acquisitions, spend the money on acquiring experiences, going on holiday or even by being more philanthropic?
Just this week, I read about holidays taken by this family, which I think is a really good idea, to help others. They spent their holiday at an orphanage. First, you bring the children great joy by just being with them. Second, the gifts you bring are really necessities that they may need, but never will be able to dream of having. Third, you might just leave them feeling that you are indeed fortunate to be able to take that holiday, be on a plane, go to a new place, and be a bringer of great joy. There are many things that we take for granted. I think it is good to go places where people are not so well-off for us to learn to be more grateful. Maybe then life will be more meaningful.
OK, the more I write, the more I digress... I shall end here for today. I have more to ramble, which I will. I think I'm getting a hang of this!
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