tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53656592766291991182024-03-14T06:16:44.818+08:00Mommy CafeRuthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comBlogger228125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-43679478270427686362012-06-04T14:45:00.000+08:002012-06-04T14:56:15.186+08:00We Have Moved!Hi there! Thanks for visiting Mommy Cafe! In case you're wondering about the lack of activity on this blog recently, it's because we've moved!<br />
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Yes, for the past two weeks, I've been busy migrating and learning how to use the new blogging platform. So happy to announce that I've finally got the hang of it *pat on my own back*<br />
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Hop over the new blog now; the look and feel is pretty much the same, so you'll feel just right at home *smiles* </div>
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Please click <a href="http://themommycafe.net/">here</a> and it go to the new Mommy Cafe blog! See you there!</div>
</div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-15003512347639349872012-05-17T17:43:00.000+08:002012-05-17T17:43:08.771+08:00Results of the Mother's Day Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aXv4XI8Zdpc/T7THESeK9SI/AAAAAAAABi4/ccDN8XyijYo/s1600/Born+to+Shop6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aXv4XI8Zdpc/T7THESeK9SI/AAAAAAAABi4/ccDN8XyijYo/s320/Born+to+Shop6.jpg" width="244" /></a></div>
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Sorry for being late in posting the results of this giveaway! As there are only three participants, so I've decided that the winners will be the first two entries. So congratulations to:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><b>Mich</b></span> & <span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">Adeline Oon</span></b>!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Please email me at ruthwongwrites@gmail.com with your full name and home address so we can get the book mailed to you! Hope you will share some insights you've gleaned from this book with me! :)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Thanks Melissa Chor of <a href="http://www.image-harmony.com/">Image Harmony</a> for sponsoring this giveaway!</span></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-78605591706380241612012-05-16T18:15:00.000+08:002012-05-25T10:11:52.558+08:00A Lesson in Perseverance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rGd9TlBjdJs/T77qXNcewHI/AAAAAAAABjk/pBLGmDCLf9Y/s1600/chopsticks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rGd9TlBjdJs/T77qXNcewHI/AAAAAAAABjk/pBLGmDCLf9Y/s400/chopsticks.JPG" width="297" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
The words came out of his mouth most unsuspectingly.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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We were playing with a pair of toy chopsticks and I asked him to
try to use it to pick up some felt balls. Without even attempting a try, he merely
paused for a brief moment before declaring with a cute face, "I don't
know!" <o:p></o:p></div>
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"I don't know"? Since when did he learn those words and
from whom? Ok, redundant question. If it's not from the parents, then it's most likely from school. <o:p></o:p></div>
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While I think it's good to admit that you don't know how to do something,
it's not a good idea when you decide that you'll not want to at least give it a try.<o:p></o:p></div>
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That was exactly what my boy did. After saying those
words, he sat back, looked at me and said, "Mommy do!" <o:p></o:p></div>
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While it may be no big deal in the eyes of another parent (after
all he’s just a two year-old right?) but it was enough to sound off an alarm in my
head. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Think I overreacted? Well, you need to understand what kind of mom
I am.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US">Big on values<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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of course, I'm no supermom, in fact, far from it. I know my weaknesses <span lang="EN-US">– I find
it a constant challenge to come up with interesting educational crafts and activities to do
with my boy. I even use it as an excuse sometimes not to think of something and
just let him do free play (after all we sent him to school right? He should
have quite a bit of structured play and learning in class).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I
once thought I’ll be quite the kiasu mom who diligently trains her son into a
future Einstein, but I quickly realised that it doesn’t resonate with me. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I
discovered that I’m big on VALUES, as well as EQ. I believe that if I inculcate
the right values and principles in my son, help him develop good communication
and interpersonal skills, he will go far in life. Look at how many of the successful
people aren’t usually the smartest students in class and you’ll know what I
mean. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Plus I’m
never for the corporate rat race, I think it sucks. I mean, your income will
never truly reflect your capability and hard work, and the best worker doesn’t
always get the next promotion he deserves. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">So if you
ask me what’s my dream for my son, it will not be that he will grow up and get
the President Scholarship and then walk down a career path that someone has
laid out for him, no doubt it’s gonna be quite a cushy path and daddy and mommy
will not have to worry about his college tuition fees and can use the money to
travel round the world! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I’m not
saying that he can then neglect his studies, I think it’s still good to acquire
knowledge and learn to be as smart as he can. If not, he’s gonna get eaten up
by the sharks! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">But I wish
he will be an enterprising individual who has the freedom to pursue his passion
and live a fulfilled, meaningful life. Oh, I wish too, that he will earn lots of
money. Not so that he will live a life of luxury (he can indulge a bit). I hope he will have greater
means to change the world and make it a better place, and people who have the
money can do so much more than those who don’t.
Heart plus money – it can be real powerful!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b>Success is usually just another try away</b><b><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Anyway, I
digressed!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Back to the
“I don’t know” - I felt that it was an important learning moment, regardless of
whether he really understood where I was coming from. I wanted him to learn
perseverance and the importance of not giving up easily, and I believe values
need to be inculcated from young.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">So I told
him if he doesn’t know how to do it, he can say so and asks me to teach
him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I took his
small hand in mine and showed him how to use the chopstick. When he finally
managed to pick up a ball on his own, I cheered and applauded will all my might
and heart. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I ended the
play session saying, “See Kenan, you can do it! Don’t say you don’t know, at least
try.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">A few days
later, he was playing with his wooden blocks and was building something. I was
at the dining table working. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Suddenly,
he shouted, “</span>I can do this, yeah!” I couldn’t believe my ears. I stopped
whatever I was doing, rushed over to his side and hugged him tightly. The joy I
felt was immense. I’m not sure if it was because of what I taught him days
before, but still I am overjoyed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Son, that’s the right
attitude. Well done and keep it up! Persevere and don’t give up easily, because
<b>success is usually just another try away</b>. <span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsB2P_vRg3U/T7N5eDUAqsI/AAAAAAAABis/Wm4K31uJMVw/s1600/ID-10078775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsB2P_vRg3U/T7N5eDUAqsI/AAAAAAAABis/Wm4K31uJMVw/s1600/ID-10078775.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/">source</a></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Do you feel
like giving up on something? Or you have a dream, tried pursuing it but failed.
Well, don’t let go of your dream too quickly and easily. Not everyone succeed
on the first try. Give it another go, your dream is worth every second chance.
If you don’t give yourself that chance, who will? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">So go and
be that strong woman and mommy. <b>When you persevere with your goals and dreams,
your child will also learn to pursue theirs with the same tenacity</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-86119248819208698672012-05-15T00:28:00.000+08:002012-05-25T10:12:31.374+08:00Mother's Day ReflectionsMother’s Day has just passed, how has the day been for you?<br />
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<br /></div>
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I had initially planned on writing a Mother’s Day post, but just
couldn’t get the words out. To be honest, it felt just like any other day, except
that the husband’s little surprises this year made it all so special for me,
even when I didn’t feel that way. </div>
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First, there was the cake…<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wo1rr23sKqc/T77p2GSskrI/AAAAAAAABjE/uDwJk_kfWr8/s1600/motherday+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wo1rr23sKqc/T77p2GSskrI/AAAAAAAABjE/uDwJk_kfWr8/s400/motherday+(3).JPG" width="326" /></a></div>
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Then a card which made me cry...</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kxk19Y5mkOQ/T77p8vE_ArI/AAAAAAAABjM/p13aGPQpiQk/s1600/motherday+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kxk19Y5mkOQ/T77p8vE_ArI/AAAAAAAABjM/p13aGPQpiQk/s400/motherday+(2).JPG" width="299" /></a></div>
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Even the son did his part with a card he made in school (I asked him who is it for, he said it’s for himself! *LAUGHS*)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2HZ-ac1jDc/T77qFWMXAgI/AAAAAAAABjU/xD0N65SSBQ0/s1600/motherday.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2HZ-ac1jDc/T77qFWMXAgI/AAAAAAAABjU/xD0N65SSBQ0/s320/motherday.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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But touched as I was, I couldn't help feeling guilty. Guilty that I have been
working too much lately and haven’t spend enough time with my boy; guilty that besides play, I haven't been doing much learning related activities with him; guilty
that I have been spending more time online than being present with my son. </div>
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<br />
But as the "mommy guilt" grew, I realised I better stop berating myself as it does nothing to make the situation any better.</div>
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As I reflected on what I'm feeling, I am making a commitment this Mother's Day to change and to be a better mom. </div>
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I will set aside time for my son every day, remembering that
he’s the very reason I’m a WAHM.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I will be more organised and stay focused when I work (no
distractions from FB, Twitter etc.) so I don’t waste precious time and end up
complaining there isn't enough time.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I will remind myself not to be a 'kiasu' mom and that it doesn’t matter if some of my boy’s peers can
count up to 20, if he’s not ready to do so, so be it. He’s just a two year-old, let him enjoy his childhood, some things can wait.</div>
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On the same note, I will take time to discover and nurture my son’s unique gifts and talents, remembering that what other parents do don't necessarily benefit my son nor will he lose out if we don't follow suit.</div>
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Lastly, I will stop comparing myself with other moms. My boy doesn’t need a mom who’s feeling inadequate and
lousy about herself, he needs a mom who feels happy being a mom and believes
in her own strengths. I will stop berating myself and instead look at how
I can improve and be a better mom and individual.</div>
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</div>
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I want to add that being a mom is a special
blessing every day, and not just on Mother’s Day. It include those days when everything seems to be going wrong and the house is in
an incredible mess, the kids are throwing incessant tantrums and you lost it
and yelled at them. It definitely doesn’t feel like it's such a blessing on those days,
but isn't the very fact that our kids are with us something precious and worth giving thanks for as a mom?<br />
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</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s1Ki-FBZViw/T77qNscA8DI/AAAAAAAABjc/h8ehPDVYSJA/s1600/myboy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s1Ki-FBZViw/T77qNscA8DI/AAAAAAAABjc/h8ehPDVYSJA/s1600/myboy.jpg" /></a></div>
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Do you sometimes feel the "mommy guilt" or sense of inadequacy as
a mom? How do you deal with these feelings?</div>
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-38791458277243956542012-05-09T14:30:00.000+08:002012-05-10T00:35:59.371+08:00Work & Entrepreneurship Series: To Nurture the Young<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">Hi! After a long break, we are back with another entrepreneurship story.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zvtB_aCX_wg/T6oJFd-g6XI/AAAAAAAABhI/U8Pm1pIFAGw/s1600/Sabrina.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zvtB_aCX_wg/T6oJFd-g6XI/AAAAAAAABhI/U8Pm1pIFAGw/s320/Sabrina.JPG" width="233" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">Sabrina Quek is mom to two beautiful children ages five and two. A
preschool teacher before starting her family and passionate about teaching
young children, she founded
</span><b style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;"><a href="http://nurtureworks.com.sg/index.html">NurtureWorks</a></b><span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;"> in 2009 to provide enrichment programs for children as
young as four months old to primary school. The company specialises in music and
movement, brain development and dance programs.</span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;"><br /><b>Interview with Sabrina:</b></span><br />
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;"><br />1. Is NurtureWorks your first business
venture? If not, what other businesses have you had or are still running?</span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">I had a
diaper bags and baby clothes online business about two years before
NurtureWorks, I have since closed this online business to concentrate my
efforts and time fully on my current business.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">2. What challenges did you face when starting your
business and how did you overcome them? <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">I had difficulty getting assignments for myself and my teachers, as most
centres wanted more established names to run programs in their centres. I
overcame this setback by marketing my programs to my ex-polytechnic course mates
who were running childcare centres. With that, my program got around through
word-of-mouth, I also started a home-based and private baby and toddler
playgroup program to start generating a customer base. It was a good way to
fine-tune my programs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">Being a mum with two young children, time is also a challenge. The year
I was pregnant, and also after my confinement with my second child was
especially tough because I did not had any employees yet. To overcome this issue, I asked some friends
who had teaching background to relief me once in awhile when there was no one
that could take care of my baby girl. About six months after I gave birth, I
finally found my first employee. Now I have three teachers working for me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">3. What are three things you did that contributed the
most to growing your business?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">Marketing through the right channels. Instead of marketing to the mass
market by distributing flyers, I concentrated my efforts to people I know to
help me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">By starting with very low capital. I started this business without
taking on a property/venue to run the program. This way I am not tied down to
monthly rental and overheads. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">Starting with home-based and private playgroup programs to build my
customer base, who in turn helped me with the informal marketing of my
business,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">4. How do you deal with competition from other similar
businesses?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">I realise many people go for overseas brands which are more established
etc. So I find a niche, which are my home-based programs and private playgroup
programs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">5. What do you enjoy most about the business, and what
do you like least?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">I enjoy teaching babies and children, and meeting parents. I also enjoy
mentoring my younger teachers. Doing administrative requirements is my least
favourite!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">6. What are three important lessons you learnt from
running your business?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">First, stick to realistic targets and set realistic challenges.
Second, stay focused and disciplined; learn to set priorities for work and
home. Lastly, persevere. The first two years are tough for most businesses, even
for my business, though we are into the third year, we are still small but
growing slowly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">7. What business achievements are you most proud
of?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">When other business investors like my business idea and want to help me
grow the business. Now I am also in the midst of turning the business into a
social enterprise. I am going to have my programs be available to low-income
families.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">8. How do you strike a balance between work and
family commitments?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">For me, its always family first. I spend most of my daily time with the
children, as I am also homeschooling them. I only do my work at night or during
free time, such as when my parents help take care of the children during
weekends.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">9. What sacrifices have you had to make to start
your own business?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">I had to sacrifice many Sundays, while the kids are their grandparents,
foregoing my own time for shopping, watching movies etc. and instead to spend time
on program-planning and marketing efforts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">10. What three pieces of advice do you have for
those aspiring to start their own business, especially moms? <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">Do your market research, and find out what will work best for you
business. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">Make it like a family-business. For example, my husband chilps in to
help with my business too, he is my unofficial photographer, technical support
and business advisor! For free! Finally, persevere, do not give up. It takes a
couple of years for most business to pick up.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;"><br /><br /><span style="color: #0b5394;">I hope you've enjoyed this interview and that it has inspired you in some ways. If you (or someone you know) have taken a leap of faith to pursue your passion and would like to share your story with us, please email me: <b>ruthwongwrites@gmail.com</b></span></span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;">Looking forward to hearing from you!</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-83617060056403729192012-05-07T08:30:00.000+08:002012-05-10T18:08:09.188+08:00How to Shop Smarter: Three Fashion Shopping Tips for Busy Moms (Plus a Giveaway!)<br />
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">This week,
we are celebrating Mother’s Day here on Mommy Café. I’ve
invited a friend from the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI), Melissa Chor, to share some fashion shopping tips
for moms. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eJ2GeyB9Viw/T6acSs1moeI/AAAAAAAABgU/cDMUs9OMQB4/s1600/twowomenshop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eJ2GeyB9Viw/T6acSs1moeI/AAAAAAAABgU/cDMUs9OMQB4/s400/twowomenshop.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=2125"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Source</span></a></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">In
my many years as an expert shopper and style consultant, I have come to one
conclusion: ALL women (no matter what they say) LOVE to shop. It’s in our
DNA. Women are also emotional beings and shopping meets our emotional needs to a
certain extent. Hence, we shop when we are happy or when we are sad. When
making shopping decisions, we are often ruled by our hearts more than our
heads. This explains why some of us make shopping mistakes over and over again.</span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Whatever
your shopping challenges are, apply these three principles and you will soon
find that you can shop more effectively and still have fun!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">1. Spring-clean
your wardrobe<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">You
need to get rid of the old before putting in the new. Do this once every two
years or annually if you shop very often. Discard or donate stuff that you have
not worn for more than a year. Get rid of clothes that are worn out and faded
or remind you of unhappy memories! You want a wardrobe that you can cherish and
feel happy about every time you see it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Once
you have done that, reorganise your clothes by occasion such as work, leisure and home. Then organise your
individual wardrobe by colour, type (dresses together, pants together etc…) and
design (printed ones together, long sleeve tops together etc...). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">This
will give you a clear idea of what you now have at a glance. You may find
that you have too many clothes in the same boring hues, so add instant style
into your wardrobe with a dash of colours. Or you have too many tops and not
enough bottoms to match, so you need to get more bottoms on your next
shopping trip. With regular spring-cleaning and proper organisation, you will
be able to identify what you really need to make your wardrobe work for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">2. Stick to
the basics<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Whether
you are revamping your wardrobe or developing a brand new one, always start
with the basics first. Now, what do I mean by that? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Basics
refer to the foundation of your wardrobe. You need to have a basic set of
wardrobe which never goes out of style and is easy to coordinate with just
about everything in your wardrobe currently or new purchases. Items such as a
classic white shirt, a slim skirt, tank tops, a well-tailored jacket and a pair
of straight cut pants will help you to maximise your entire wardrobe. If you
are a stay-at-home mom, you should invest in several plain coloured tops, a
pair of bootleg cut jeans, an A-line skirt and a few pairs of casual
pants/shorts. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">You
can start with a five, seven, nine etc… basic pieces. Keep the colours neutrals
(e.g. black, blue, gray, white and beige) and the style simple and plain. Then
you can add on new pieces in different styles, colours and prints to jazz up
your wardrobe. It is much easier to build on a basic set of clothing than a
variety of styles. (Refer to images below) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eiqjNbBROW0/T6adC5pbctI/AAAAAAAABgc/l_laK1EB8ys/s1600/basicsforwkgmom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eiqjNbBROW0/T6adC5pbctI/AAAAAAAABgc/l_laK1EB8ys/s400/basicsforwkgmom.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G82lTqYHvo0/T6adKVf1W2I/AAAAAAAABgk/eSSJvxOEy1I/s1600/basicsforSAHM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="399" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G82lTqYHvo0/T6adKVf1W2I/AAAAAAAABgk/eSSJvxOEy1I/s400/basicsforSAHM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b style="font-size: 11pt;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">3. Plan for
a shopping day</span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">As
a busy mom juggling multiple roles and tasks daily, I can imagine what little
energy you will have left for shopping! While family, work and commitments are
your priorities, you need to always set aside some “Me” time. I am sure you can
find some hours to set aside for a little shopping if you so desire. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Don’t
shop in between rushing from one appointment or task to another. You may end up
not trying out the outfit or grabbing the same old stuff. Then when you reach
home, you realise that the outfit is not that great after all or it is the same
boring style as what you already have by the dozens in your wardrobe! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Some
of my clients dislike shopping because they found it unproductive i.e. they
return empty-handed or didn’t like what they bought. Upon my probing, they
eventually confessed that they either did not try on the clothes or went for
their comfort style due to lack of time to shop properly. So, do plan a time
and date for your shopping where you will not be distracted by a thousand and
one tasks.</span><br />
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-01m0-9xGiQU/T6agGbTFGmI/AAAAAAAABgw/W1C-NJTy9YA/s1600/MelissaChor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-01m0-9xGiQU/T6agGbTFGmI/AAAAAAAABgw/W1C-NJTy9YA/s200/MelissaChor.jpg" width="200" /></a><i>Melissa Chor is a certified image professional (CIP) with the
AICI, one of only a handful of
CIP members in Singapore. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-US">Passionate about helping clients to
look fabulous and confident, Melissa has transformed many individuals’ personal
styles to reflect their capabilities, potentials and personalities. </span><span lang="EN-US">Melissa founded
Image Harmony, in 2007 and offers a wide spectrum of image services such as
colour analysis, style personality assessment, make-up tutorial, wardrobe
revamp and personal shopping in local and overseas countries. </span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>She currently serves as Secretary and Chair of Philanthropy on the AICI
Singapore Chapter Board of Directors, 2011-2013. </i><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">Thank
you, Melissa for the wonderful tips! She has many more principles on how to shop effectively. To find out more, get a copy of her book <b>‘Born to Shop – Guide to
Making Your Shopping Fun and Fabulous!’</b>. It’s available for purchase on her
<a href="http://www.image-harmony.com/shopping-guide.html">website</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d58YuGCqs0E/T6ai57QzUuI/AAAAAAAABg8/omNvIBDwPys/s1600/Born+to+Shop6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d58YuGCqs0E/T6ai57QzUuI/AAAAAAAABg8/omNvIBDwPys/s200/Born+to+Shop6.jpg" width="151" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;"><o:p><b>Giveway Contest</b></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt;">As
Mother’s Day is approaching, Melissa has generously offered to give away <u>TWO</u> copies of her book, and personally autographed too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt;">This
is how to take part:</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">1.
Like <a href="http://www.facebook.com/imageharmony">Image Harmony’s Facebook page.</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">2.
Like <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheMommyCafe">Mommy Café’s Facebook page</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">3.
Leave a comment on this post or on Mommy Café’s Facebook page, sharing with us
the main style/fashion challenges you face. Melissa will address some of
your style issues in the next blog post (so keep a look out for it!).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">4. The contest will end on <b>12 May 2012, 11:59pm.</b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">5. The two winners will be randomly picked, results will be announced on this blog and on Mommy Cafe's Facebook page.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 11pt;">6. Please note that this giveaway is open to readers residing in Singapore... and internationally!</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">All the best everyone!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Century Gothic', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-58786621082797224912012-05-05T10:30:00.000+08:002012-05-05T10:33:38.853+08:00We Are Celebrating Mother's Day!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NHAJEhIy77c/T6SOasnFUhI/AAAAAAAABgI/mtq3VBgVOrE/s1600/pinkrose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NHAJEhIy77c/T6SOasnFUhI/AAAAAAAABgI/mtq3VBgVOrE/s320/pinkrose.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
Hi! In the coming week, Mommy Cafe is celebrating Mother's Day! All posts will be for moms and about moms.<br />
<br />
Just to give you a peek of what's coming up, there will be a post on tips for fashion shopping for busy moms, interview with a mompreneur, as well as a giveaway!<br />
<br />
So do join us next week, see you!<br />
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-18542376684013588692012-05-02T23:50:00.000+08:002012-05-03T00:11:05.543+08:00AquaBambinos Giveaway Results<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U3WL_UpM8aE/T6FYfzlKHEI/AAAAAAAABf8/ZtbTO1Niow8/s1600/aquabambino+logo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U3WL_UpM8aE/T6FYfzlKHEI/AAAAAAAABf8/ZtbTO1Niow8/s1600/aquabambino+logo.JPG" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pic copyrighted by AquaBambinos</span></i></div>
<br />
<br />
Thank you everyone for taking part in the AquaBambinos giveaway contest. Sorry for being late in announcing the winners, because my boy had been sick since the weekend. Thankfully he's finally recovered.<br />
<br />
Now for for the results of the AquaBambinos giveaway contest. The winners are drawn randomly by Random.org, after I assigned a number against each of the participants (both on the blog and on Mommy Cafe's Facebook page).<br />
<br />
<span style="text-align: left;">The TWO winners are: </span><br />
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<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">Ooy Yoan </span></b>and <b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">Joanne Teng</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Congratulations mommies and kids! </span></i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
Could winners please contact me at <span style="color: #674ea7;">ruthwongwrites@gmail.com</span> with your details: mommy's full name, kid's full name, mobile number and email address.<br />
<br />
AquaBambinos will contact you to arrange for the free trial lesson. Looking forward to hearing about your child's swim experience at the School!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
PS: There will be a redraw if any of the winners do not contact me with the required information by <b>Friday, 4 May, 11:59pm.</b><br />
<br />
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-63051148578659914062012-05-01T09:00:00.000+08:002012-05-01T09:00:02.367+08:00Pies & Coffee: Gourmet Pies and Air-Infused CoffeeIf you enjoy pies, you will like Pies & Coffee. Besides, there are other good reasons why you should check out this place.<br />
<br />
Located at Rochester Mall, which is about five minutes walk from the Buona Vista MRT station, Pies & Coffee, offers a wide selection of savoury and sweet gourmet pies, making it a first-of-its-kind cafe in Singapore to specialise in pies. It scores another first by brewing their coffees with an air-infusion coffee machine.<br />
<br />
I was recently invited to a food tasting session and went away craving for some of their yummy pies.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oqL91qQ0VgA/T55RVpYfWWI/AAAAAAAABd8/4jW1Kb8Jr40/s1600/Interior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oqL91qQ0VgA/T55RVpYfWWI/AAAAAAAABd8/4jW1Kb8Jr40/s1600/Interior.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Pies & Coffee opened in Feburary this year; pic </i><i><b><span style="color: #330000; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">© </span></b>Pies & Coffee </i></div>
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<b>The Vibe: </b>Done up in black and white colour scheme, the cafe exudes cool, contemporary chicness. The indoor area sits 20 while the outdoor can accomodate up to 60. </div>
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I recommend heading out to the seats next to the water feature; it makes for an ideal spot for chillaxing. Not only is the area well shaded and surrounded by greenery, there's a constant breeze which is so welcoming a hot, humid day. We were told it's often this breezy. Looking at the building structure, it looks like the cafe is located at some sort of a wind tunnel and possibly explains the constant wind blowing through. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dnItfH5_-CE/T55cK8H6N1I/AAAAAAAABeg/eVNuTF5qlPs/s1600/Exterior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dnItfH5_-CE/T55cK8H6N1I/AAAAAAAABeg/eVNuTF5qlPs/s1600/Exterior.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Soothing sounds of the water feature and constant breeze create a relaxing atmosphere at this outdoor sitting area; Pic </i><i><b><span style="color: #330000; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">© </span></b>Pies & Coffee </i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cMvXmUVykJg/T55cV9cm7xI/AAAAAAAABeo/HxvEbJB7qO0/s1600/Piesncoffee+(12).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cMvXmUVykJg/T55cV9cm7xI/AAAAAAAABeo/HxvEbJB7qO0/s1600/Piesncoffee+(12).JPG" /></a></div>
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<i>Grab a magazine from one these baskets and sit back to enjoy your food and drinks</i></div>
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<b>The food: </b>Pies & Coffee offers 14 delectable pies - eight savoury and six sweet. The savoury pies come in three sizes - K-pies (which is kid-size pies), 4.5 inches and 9 inches. Prices start from S$8.95 for 4.5 inches to $64.95 for the 9 inches pies. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ovRKNFmrmwc/T55cpnocL8I/AAAAAAAABew/IfwRa1IUwSU/s1600/Wagyu+Beef+Cheek+Pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ovRKNFmrmwc/T55cpnocL8I/AAAAAAAABew/IfwRa1IUwSU/s1600/Wagyu+Beef+Cheek+Pie.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Wagyu Beef Cheek Pie,</i> <i>pic</i> <i><b><span style="color: #330000; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">© </span></b>Pies & Coffee</i></div>
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For the food tasting, we tried the Wagyu Beef Cheek, Lamb Shank, Chicken Cheddar and Laksa Seafood Shepherd Pie. </div>
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First, about the pie crust. It is golden and crumbly and has a nice buttery flavour. However, it was slightly on the bland side in my opinion, but not something I would fuss over.<br />
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All the pies are packed with a generous amount of fillings. They are served with salad and mashed potato, which taste real and not like the soft, mushy kind you get at some fast-food joints; you can still bite into small bits of potatoes in this one.<br />
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Out of the four savoury pies we tried, I thoroughly enjoyed the Chicken Cheddar and absolutely love the Laksa Seafood. The former was creamy, flavourful and has an almost melt-in-the-mouth texture.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J0rVe1yt1os/T55mYi4ki5I/AAAAAAAABe8/oTAwwYe62Ug/s1600/Laksa+Pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J0rVe1yt1os/T55mYi4ki5I/AAAAAAAABe8/oTAwwYe62Ug/s1600/Laksa+Pie.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Laksa Seafood Shepherd Pie, pic <b><span style="color: #330000; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">© </span></b>Pies & Coffee</i></div>
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The Laksa Seafood Shepherd Pie, which is served in a bowl and covered with a mashed potato crust, is probably the first in Singapore and as a laksa lover, I'm head over heels with this one.<br />
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Every bite gives you a mouthful of seafood chunks - I could taste scallop, prawn and squid - all cooked to perfection and the gravy is so fragrant and not too spicy. I love it so much that I couldn't leave without getting one for the hubby, which he enjoyed too.<br />
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As for the sweet pies, the Macademia Nut Cheese and Chocolate Almond make for good desserts.<br />
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By the way, I got to mention the Tomato and Feta Cheese Salad. Though not stated on its menu, the salad comes with pieces of watermelon and adds an extra sweetness and nice crunchy bite to the whole combination that is (much to my surprise) so refreshingly good! It definitely makes it to the must-try list.<br />
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Do look out for monthly special pies and festive pies which will be rolled out throughout the year.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Awz4fRrqB_o/T565my8II8I/AAAAAAAABfk/XGRS_HoQgLs/s1600/Piesncoffee_comb2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Awz4fRrqB_o/T565my8II8I/AAAAAAAABfk/XGRS_HoQgLs/s1600/Piesncoffee_comb2.JPG" /></a></div>
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When it comes to the drinks, Pies & Coffee (as its name suggest) offers the coffee lover a wide selection: espresso, cappucino, macchiato, latter, flavoured latte and long black. Not to be missed are the siphoned coffees created by the air-infusion coffee machine. Coffee aficionados can look forward to full bodied, aromatic cups of Blue Mountain (Jamaica), Columbia Supremo and Kenya AA (Africa). I tried the Blue Mountain and it was smooth, light and doesn't have any strong bitter aftertaste.<br />
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Don't like coffee? There's Gryphon teas to gratify the tea lovers, as well as frappes, milkshakes and smoothies. I tried the Avocado Vanilla Cream Milkshake and Crunchy Peanut Butter Milkshake. While I normally love avocado milkshake, in this instance, I actually enjoyed the peanut butter one better. It was so yummylicious!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LxN_BaCsHh8/T560N5HWRnI/AAAAAAAABfI/1-iogiNRNa0/s1600/Smoothies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LxN_BaCsHh8/T560N5HWRnI/AAAAAAAABfI/1-iogiNRNa0/s1600/Smoothies.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><b><span style="color: #330000; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">© </span></b>Pies & Coffee</i>
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<b>Family factor: </b>There are some highchairs for the little ones. I'm told because of the Julia Gabriel school at Rochester Mall, there's usually quite a number of mums who hang out at the cafe. I would agree that it's definitely one of those places where mums can meet up and catch up with one another and the relaxing, laidback vibe certainly encourage that. It's great too, that the cafe serves kid-size pies.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RFC-bVmeOtU/T5637grjGpI/AAAAAAAABfU/YQQW5OLyMrA/s1600/Piesncoffee_comb3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RFC-bVmeOtU/T5637grjGpI/AAAAAAAABfU/YQQW5OLyMrA/s1600/Piesncoffee_comb3.JPG" /></a></div>
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<i>Top right pic: the other outdoor sitting area; right bottom: highchairs for the little ones</i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pjGzOdlhyKA/T564MMDreDI/AAAAAAAABfc/34F70JEgbEk/s1600/Piesncoffee_comb1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pjGzOdlhyKA/T564MMDreDI/AAAAAAAABfc/34F70JEgbEk/s1600/Piesncoffee_comb1.JPG" /></a></div>
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Pies & Coffee practices self-service; customers will order, pay and pick up their food and drinks from the counter. That's fine with me. Beats being at some restaurants where they forgot about your orders until you start asking them after a long wait.</div>
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With good food and a quiet, relaxing ambience, I'll certainly be back - especially for that Laksa Seafood Pie.</div>
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<b>Pies & Coffee</b></div>
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35 Rochester Drive, </div>
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#01-02 Rochester Mall</div>
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Singapore 138639</div>
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Tel: 6570 0080 </div>
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<a href="http://www.piesncoffee.com/">Website</a></div>
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<b>Opening hours:</b></div>
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9am to 11pm daily</div>
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</div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-69921523431864998812012-04-26T17:00:00.000+08:002012-04-27T03:17:55.597+08:00The One Item that Every Household Should Have<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a467Cm4-w1A/T5juvTjSTJI/AAAAAAAABdo/PkuCNiiY5sA/s1600/Cleaning+set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a467Cm4-w1A/T5juvTjSTJI/AAAAAAAABdo/PkuCNiiY5sA/s1600/Cleaning+set.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=1701">source</a></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do you know that there’s
one item that can be used for cleaning almost any part of the house, works
wonder for dirty laundry, helps remove moisture and odor from enclosed areas,
double up as whitening agent for your teeth, relieves nappy rash irritations and
do a whole lot more?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well, I didn’t know either, until I was researching online about how to remove a stain on my hubby’s shirt.
Since then (over a year now), I’ve been using it to do various sorts of cleaning around the
house.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have you guessed what it
is?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's the humble <a href="http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-baking-soda.htm">baking soda</a> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(don't confuse it with <a href="http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-baking-powder.htm">baking powder</a>)! </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yup, the one you use in your baking.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nMqbTrmPXVg/T5jwORAmSRI/AAAAAAAABdw/_x3W_h3UrsA/s1600/bakingsoda.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nMqbTrmPXVg/T5jwORAmSRI/AAAAAAAABdw/_x3W_h3UrsA/s400/bakingsoda.JPG" width="393" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I use these two brands of baking soda (from NTUC)</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I’ve found the baking
soda to be such a useful item that I highly recommend that you stock some at
home, if you don’t already have it. What's more, it's non-toxic and environmentally friendly.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What I use baking soda for</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First, the
laundry. By mixing it with the detergent, the clothes turn out cleaner than
just using detergent alone (it’s supposed to help remove odor from clothes too
but since we don’t have this problem, I can’t really comment on that). In fact,
I would reduce the detergent by about a third and replace with baking soda –
the less harmful chemicals we use, the better it is for our health and
environment, don’t you agree? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I find baking soda especially
helpful with items that tend to be on the greasy side, like pillow case and
even face towel, which I will soak with baking soda and detergent before
washing. The baking soda also makes towels fluffier after wash.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also use this
‘household wonder’ as an odor remover cum moisture absorbent. I would put
baking soda in an open container in the shoe cabinet and it works in removing
the smell. You’ll need to stir the powder once in a while. I read from a
website that it should be discarded after two months, but I do so every month (I thought that since Singapore is more humid, it should be changed more frequently - after all, the writers of the articles I've researched are written mainly by people living in the US where it's less humid).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've also recently started using baking soda to wash our fruits and vegetables (instead of those fruits/veggie cleaners) after watching a Chinese infotainment programme. Apparently, it works by neutralising the pesticide (acidic) as baking soda is alkaline.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And oh, I experimented
with using baking soda as a shampoo too! I'll probably share more in a future post.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Below are some of the common uses of baking soda. There are lots more of course, so I’ve added some
useful links at the end of the post.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>General cleaning</b> </span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add baking soda on a
moist sponge and clean bathroom sink, tub, tiles etc. It works well especially
on water stains and doesn’t scratch the surface.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Baking soda can be used
as an extinguisher to put out fires in clothing, fuel, upholstery and rugs and
even stove fires – just throw some on the fire. The carbon dioxide generated by
the burning powder will star<span style="color: #2f281f;">ve
the fire of oxygen.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Baking soda helps absorb
moisture and control humidity. So place some soda in an open container and use
in places such as cupboards, cabinets and under sinks. Remember to stir
occasionally and replace after one, two months or when you find it no longer
effective.</span></li>
</ul>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mix soda in water to
clean fruits and vegetables. Let them soak a while before rinsing off.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remove odor from your
fridge and freezer by putting soda in an open container. Stir from time to time
and replace after one, two months or when you find it no longer effective.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add soda to hot water to
thoroughly clean baby bottles of any milk residual and smell.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Similarly, remove any
stale smells from food containers by washing with soda and hot water. If the
smell is pretty strong, you can soak the container overnight.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Burnt something on your
pan? Let the pan soak in soda and water for about 10 minutes. Or you could
scrub with baking soda on a moist scouring pad.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In case of a badly burnt pan with thick layer of blackened food, make a paste
by adding just enough water to the soda (use a thick layer here) and leave
overnight and wash the next day.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Clear clogged drains by
dunking a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by a few jugs of boiling
water.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <b>Laundry</b></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Soak and wash diapers
with baking soda to remove smell and stains.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Stains on clothes? Make
a paste with baking soda and water and rub on the area. I’ll let it soak a bit
and then give it a scrub before washing.<span style="color: #2f281f;"> </span></span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Health, Beauty & Hygiene </span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remove odor from shoes
by sprinkling the insides liberally with soda. Leave overnight and shake out
the next day.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #2f281f;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add half teaspoon of
baking soda to a glass of water as a mouthwash helps remove bad breath.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remove build-up from oil
and hairstyling products on your combs and brushes in a solution of water and
soda.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To relieve diaper rash
irritations, add two tablespoons of baking soda into baby’s bath water.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Baking soda can clean
and whiten your teeth. Sprinkle some onto your toothpaste before brushing. You
can also use that to brush and clean dentures.</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Others</span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Keep a handy container
of baking soda in your car. It can be used to put out fire and won’t damage
anything.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #2f281f;">To relief bug bites, make a thick paste with baking soda and water and
apply directly on affected area.</span><span style="color: #2f281f;"> </span></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: #2f281f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lastly, you can maximise the usage of the baking soda by re-using it. For example, after you’ve used soda to remove odor from the shoe cabinet, dunk it down the sink and add hot water to prevent drain blockage.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #2f281f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Is there any household products (especially non-toxic, eco-friendly ones) that you swear by? Please do share so we can be better homemakers!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #2f281f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Useful links - More Uses of Baking Soda</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.i4at.org/lib2/60soda.htm"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">60 Uses of Baking Soda</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.greenlivingtips.com/articles/154/1/30-baking-soda-tips.html#"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Baking Soda - 30 Handy Tips</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/hygiene-tips/uses-for-baking-soda-health-and-beauty-ga.htm"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Uses of Baking Soda - Health & Beauty</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://lifehackery.com/2008/07/22/home-4/">75 Extraordinary Uses of Baking Soda</a><br /><a href="http://girlonraw.com/2011/05/how-to-wash-inorganic-produce/">How to Wash Non-Organic Produce</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #2f281f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you're also looking at ways to go green at home, you may like to check out this Green Living </span><span style="color: #2f281f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/greenlivingtoday">workshop</a>. Read the reviews and tips gleaned by fellow mom bloggers:</span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://mamawearpapashirt.com/2012/04/18/non-toxic-homes-healthier-families/" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">'Non-toxic homes, healthier families'</a><span style="color: #2f281f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> by June of </span><i style="color: #2f281f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">mamawearpapashirt</i><br />
<span style="color: #2f281f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://intheweehours.wordpress.com/2012/03/19/green-living-workshop-how-to-create-a-non-toxic-home/">'Green Living: How to create a non toxic home'</a> by Delphine of <i>life in the wee hours</i> </span><br />
<span style="color: #2f281f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://whynot1996.blogspot.com/2012/04/i-am-seeing-green.html">'I am seeing green'</a> by Rawafish of <i>why not</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #2f281f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span><br />
<span style="color: #2f281f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Be inspired!</span></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-23401379880869420152012-04-23T19:15:00.000+08:002012-04-25T14:58:26.137+08:00AquaBambinos Swim School - A Review and Free Trial LessonsAmong the many sports, swimming is one that we hope Kenan will be skilled in.<br />
<br />
However, when it comes to being in the water, the best I can do is to keep myself afloat.<br />
<br />
My hubby, on the other hand, is considered a good swimmer. So I've always thought he will be the one to teach our boy swimming - and I remembered how he used to talk about doing the father-son bonding thing through swimming together.<br />
<br />
Many, many months later, let's just say that the spirit is willing but the flesh.<br />
<br />
So after coming to terms with the fact the hubby is losing this battle against inertia, I did what most smart moms would do - outsource to the experts.<br />
<br />
I think God agreed that it's a good idea too. Shortly after, I found a flyer in my letterbox from <a href="http://www.aquabambinos.com.sg/">AquaBambinos</a> about its open house. A quick visit to its website showed that they have classes for toddlers and after a phone call to the school, Kenan was on his way to his first ever swim lesson.<br />
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<b>About AquaBambinos</b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hBhBuEDtvWs/T5Ulh2TWDkI/AAAAAAAABc4/bQPvWiYKM9Y/s1600/aquabambino_comb1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hBhBuEDtvWs/T5Ulh2TWDkI/AAAAAAAABc4/bQPvWiYKM9Y/s1600/aquabambino_comb1.JPG" /></a></div>
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AquaBambinos, located within the Burghley Lifestyle Hub,<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span>is an indoor swimming school. It's pool water is "<a href="http://www.aquabambinos.com.sg/children-swim-school/facilities/">heated to a comfortable temperature of 30 degrees celsius</a>".<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N91jBGCQ5PY/T5UmEvc9ytI/AAAAAAAABdA/RPrSwLQHdns/s1600/aquabambino+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N91jBGCQ5PY/T5UmEvc9ytI/AAAAAAAABdA/RPrSwLQHdns/s1600/aquabambino+(4).JPG" /></a></div>
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The swimming pool built on a deck</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_eR8PzapvQ/T5UmSL7MNgI/AAAAAAAABdI/oqQi9SQoy1U/s1600/aquabambino+(8).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_eR8PzapvQ/T5UmSL7MNgI/AAAAAAAABdI/oqQi9SQoy1U/s1600/aquabambino+(8).JPG" /></a></div>
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<i>(copyrighted by AquaBambinos) </i>Lots of toys to engage young swimmers</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9AUEttKsdEU/T5UmXNOGzyI/AAAAAAAABdQ/ec20DrQwFFA/s1600/aquabambino+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9AUEttKsdEU/T5UmXNOGzyI/AAAAAAAABdQ/ec20DrQwFFA/s1600/aquabambino+%25289%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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<i>(copyrighted by AquaBambinos) </i>There's even a slide by the pool</div>
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Classes are available for babies and children from ages <b>6 months</b> to <b>7 year-old</b>. Class ratio is kept to a maximum of 1:6 parent-child pairs per group for parent-accompanied classes and 1:5 for non-accompanied classes.</div>
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Facilities include bathrooms with hot water showers, lockers, changing tables, toilets and a waiting area where there are some colour pencils and papers available. There's also a playground within the Lifestyle Hub's compound but I didn't see it during our visit, shall go look for it the next time.<br />
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As the school has just opened in January this year, all its facilities are still new and well maintained.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W9aOR6Bpy-4/T5UtGwynD7I/AAAAAAAABdY/u6_KsB7D15g/s1600/aquabambino_comb2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W9aOR6Bpy-4/T5UtGwynD7I/AAAAAAAABdY/u6_KsB7D15g/s1600/aquabambino_comb2.JPG" /></a></div>
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Bathroom with hot water facility <i>(left)</i>; lockers for parents <i>(right)</i></div>
<br />
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Our experience</b><br />
<br />
There were three other kids during the trial lesson. At first, Kenan simply refused to go into the pool. We almost gave up trying, until he caught sight of the balls in the water and decided that it would be fun to play with them and other toys.<br />
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I found the teacher very good - she could engage each child and showed lots of patience as well as enthusiasm. When I taught Kenan an action wrongly, she also patiently showed me how to to do it until I got it right.<br />
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Of course, I like the fact that it's an indoor swim school, so regardless of the unpredictable weather, the lessons will go on uninterrupted. No worries about make up classes or going there and then later having the class cancelled due to sudden rain.<br />
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What's most surprising was that I actually enjoyed the class!<br />
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To be honest, I'm so happy to bring my boy to a swim class that’s indoors, because this vain mommy is afraid of having more freckles on her face from direct sunlight exposure.<br />
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That aside, it's been fun learning together with my boy, especially seeing how quickly he learnt certain actions - it made me feel so proud of him! It's been equally rewarding to see how he's transformed from the boy who refused to go into the pool, to one who almost didn't want to get out of it.<br />
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I'm now looking at the class schedule and see if we can find a slot that best fit our timing.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ffQy5THZKdo/T5UyrZryH6I/AAAAAAAABdg/scgVyUAdgmM/s1600/aquabambino+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ffQy5THZKdo/T5UyrZryH6I/AAAAAAAABdg/scgVyUAdgmM/s1600/aquabambino+(3).JPG" /></a></div>
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Kenan doing a little doodling at the waiting area</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Win free trial class.. for not one but <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">TWO</span></span> winners!</span></b></div>
<br />
<b>Here's how:</b><br />
1. Like <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/AquaBambinos-Swim-School/270297279668790">AquaBambinos' Facebook page</a><br />
2. Like <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheMommyCafe">Mommy Cafe's Facebook page</a><br />
3. Your child should be between 6 months to 7 year-old.<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">3. Leave a comment on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheMommyCafe">Mommy Cafe Facebook page</a>, <b>OR</b> here on this blog post*, telling us your child's age, and something about his/her swim experience (negative or positive) and why you hope to win this trial lesson.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">4. The contest will end on </span><b>29 April 2012, Sunday at 11:59pm.</b><br />
5. The winners will be randomly picked, results will be announced on Mommy Cafe's Facebook page and on this blog.<br />
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<br />
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Join the contest now - <b><u>TWO</u></b> lucky winners will get a free trial lesson each with AquaBambinos! Do spread the word too!<br />
<br />
<i>*I'm adding this option after someone told me she rather comment here than on FB :) </i></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-6597194495323856372012-04-20T17:00:00.001+08:002012-04-20T20:18:44.018+08:00Conversations<br />
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<span lang="EN-US">I can’t
even pinpoint when it happened. But ever
since the boy started going school, he’s been rapidly building up his
vocabulary and linguistic skills, and before I knew it, we were
already having simple conversations! Almost every day, he would also spring us a surprise with a new word or two.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Here are
some of our recent conversations:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">After a bad
tantrum episode, I felt really mad and told him, “Kenan, mommy doesn’t want to stay home; I shall go out to work!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">With tears
rolling in his eyes, he replied, “No, mommy stay home! Daddy go work!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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* * * * * *
* * * *</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">One day, I
was driving the boy to school and he suddenly said, “Mummy, be careful!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I swear I
wasn’t speeding, nor did I jammed on the brake to cause him to issue that
cautionary note. But from that day on, l always remember those words and the cute
little voice that said it whenever I’m on the road.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">* * * * * *
* * * * <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I took out
a packet of Milo from the fridge and was about to drink it when the little boy discovered
what I was doing. He wanted a share of it too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">“Kenan,
mommy’s hungry, so you just drink a little and leave the rest for me, ok?” I said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I handed it
to him, he took a sip and passed it back to me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">“Kenan
drink a little only, mommy drink a lot!” I was absolutely touched that he could resist the temptation to drink more, which he would normally do as he enjoys Milo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">* * * * * *
* * * * <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">The boy had
been playing with a balloon for few days. So when I discovered it’s gone, I asked
him what happened to the balloon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Thinking
for a moment, the boy reported, “Balloon boom already!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">A second
later, he reiterated, “Burst!” and clapped his hands to mimic the sound.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">* * * * * *
* * * * <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I’m always the one to tuck the boy to sleep. He refused to let anyone else do
it. Ever since he started talking, whenever I tried to get the hubby to help,
Kenan would always protest saying, “No, daddy go away!” or he would wave
frantically and say, “Daddy bye-bye!” </span>and pushes the dad out of
the room.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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After that, the hubby would always tell me how hurt he feels. Poor
thing. He didn’t expect to have such a “mommy’s boy”! After all, he was the one
who’s been so keen to have a child!<span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">* * * * * * * * * *<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br />
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<span lang="EN-US">Last Sunday, the boy
was going out with his dad to the usual weekend dinner with the extended
family. I had to stay home to look after my mom, who had just discharged from
the hospital.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">“Kenan,
mommy won’t be going out with you and daddy tonight. Mommy has to stay home to
take care of por-por,” I explained to the boy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"> “I want to stay home with mommy, I love mommy,”
then he came over and hugged me tightly.</span></div>
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<br />
* * * * * * * * * *
</div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I'm really beginning to enjoy these simple conversations with my little boy. But will there be a day when I'll complain that he talks too much or asks too many questions (especially those that I have no immediate answers to)?</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I hope that if that day comes, I'll learn to be patient with him, so that he will continue to be curious about the world around him and develop a genuine love for learning. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UWpuR7p6NMw/T5EkXwVvT6I/AAAAAAAABcw/iMHjZtQ7N4w/s1600/P1251901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UWpuR7p6NMw/T5EkXwVvT6I/AAAAAAAABcw/iMHjZtQ7N4w/s400/P1251901.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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And if you do hear me complaining, please remind me to exercise greater patience!</div>
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<br /></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-35771666140061841932012-04-19T11:39:00.000+08:002012-04-19T11:58:42.373+08:00Port of Lost Wonder: Where Pirate Ship and Foam Party Come TogetherHave you heard the news yet? Singapore's first kids' club by the beach, <a href="http://polw.com.sg/index.html">Port of Lost Wonder (POLW)</a> has opened!<br />
<br />
Thanks to the very nice people of Sentosa, I got invited to a preview of this latest attraction on the Island last Saturday, which was also the day of their official launch.<br />
<br />
As Kenan
had class in the afternoon, we couldn't stay long, but it was enough for this mommy to
recce the new kids’ wet 'n wild wonderland - and to share the details here.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Adventures at POLW</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z6SjP6rlf-U/T47Kc5isxjI/AAAAAAAABbA/ZvdpxqHHRUE/s1600/POLW+(39).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z6SjP6rlf-U/T47Kc5isxjI/AAAAAAAABbA/ZvdpxqHHRUE/s1600/POLW+(39).JPG" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://polw.com.sg/check_us_out.html">Copyright POLW, Sentosa Island</a></span></i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z6SjP6rlf-U/T47Kc5isxjI/AAAAAAAABbA/ZvdpxqHHRUE/s1600/POLW+(39).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z6SjP6rlf-U/T47Kc5isxjI/AAAAAAAABbA/ZvdpxqHHRUE/s1600/POLW+(39).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z6SjP6rlf-U/T47Kc5isxjI/AAAAAAAABbA/ZvdpxqHHRUE/s1600/POLW+(39).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z6SjP6rlf-U/T47Kc5isxjI/AAAAAAAABbA/ZvdpxqHHRUE/s1600/POLW+(39).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vPvu4kZK2Kw/T46-MI9BWII/AAAAAAAABaY/9xzp0jVZ-uQ/s1600/POLW+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vPvu4kZK2Kw/T46-MI9BWII/AAAAAAAABaY/9xzp0jVZ-uQ/s400/POLW+%25286%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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The POLW at Palawan Beach is just a few minutes' walk from the Beach Car Park</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gUVs0DF8MV4/T47HhtTQKTI/AAAAAAAABaw/uqNF7g0KdAA/s1600/POLW+(30).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gUVs0DF8MV4/T47HhtTQKTI/AAAAAAAABaw/uqNF7g0KdAA/s1600/POLW+(30).JPG" /></a></div>
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This is where you pay for admission and obtain your curio coins, which are for kids to pay for activities or a surprise snack</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f28SbmzAYF0/T47HrbtPfDI/AAAAAAAABa4/gZO0QibzAbk/s1600/POLW+(38).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f28SbmzAYF0/T47HrbtPfDI/AAAAAAAABa4/gZO0QibzAbk/s400/POLW+(38).JPG" width="340" /></a></div>
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The coins come in a bag like this; kids will also receive a Port Pass to record their activities, collect stamps and redeem prizes!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CYDGos5dNyM/T4-NJoY0tjI/AAAAAAAABco/hkquRp7Phno/s1600/POLW+%252832%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CYDGos5dNyM/T4-NJoY0tjI/AAAAAAAABco/hkquRp7Phno/s400/POLW+%252832%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Even before
we entered POLW, the boy was already having fun! There was a bubble-making
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Let the Fun Begin!</span></b></div>
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<b>1. Ahoy matey!</b><br />
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The HUGE pirate ship docked right in the middle of the place is obviously the main draw of POLW.</div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Children
were all having a splashing good time as they moved up and down the
decks, jump into the waters and go down the numerous slides. However, parents do keep a close eye on your young children as they play with the various features, and in case the older kids get rowdy in their excitement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bo0H7HUku2I/T49wnjyHxeI/AAAAAAAABbI/q6NwpckeWqQ/s1600/POLW_comb1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bo0H7HUku2I/T49wnjyHxeI/AAAAAAAABbI/q6NwpckeWqQ/s1600/POLW_comb1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>The front and back of the Pirate Ship</i></div>
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<b>2. Sand and foam</b></div>
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Enough of water play? Then head to the sand pit at the back to build some awesome sandcastles or have a frothy good time at a real cool kids-only foam party (pay 30 curios).</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bMTQVnvu_gE/T494wd_46mI/AAAAAAAABbw/31YpHlrE2W0/s1600/POLW+(9).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bMTQVnvu_gE/T494wd_46mI/AAAAAAAABbw/31YpHlrE2W0/s400/POLW+(9).JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<b>3. Pot a plant and meet some animal friends</b></div>
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Over at the Curiosity Island, children can work their little green fingers at a 'Pots & Planks' activity where they get to plant seedlings in a pot or boot and bring it home. The activity cost $20. From what I see on the board, it's not the POLW currency i.e. curios coins, they are referring to.</div>
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<a href="http://www.polw.com.sg/whats_on.html">From what I read on the POLW website</a>, there's also some activities involving little animals but I didn't see it when we were there and was a tad disappointed. Perhaps it wasn't time yet. Gotta check this one out another day as my boy is fond of animals.</div>
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There's also supposed to be board games, traditional games and storytelling, which I didn't see on that day. Made a mental note to look out for these too, at our next visit.</div>
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<b>4. Picnic at the deck</b></div>
POLW has thoughtfully incorporated a lounging area called The Deck so parents tired out from running after their energetic kids can take a break here. Families can also buy picnic baskets from Port Belly restaurant and enjoy a meal together in the open shaded area.<br />
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Other thoughtful designs include a diaper changing area, as well as locker facility.</div>
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Are you falling in love with this place yet? We'll likely be back soon, before the word goes out far and wide and it gets too crowded! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hXmcBd1-XEw/T4-JTlEn4XI/AAAAAAAABcg/IH7D2k5Ejhg/s1600/POLW+(35).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hXmcBd1-XEw/T4-JTlEn4XI/AAAAAAAABcg/IH7D2k5Ejhg/s400/POLW+(35).JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<b>Port of Lost Wonder</b></div>
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54 Palawan Beach Walk</div>
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<b>Opening Hours:</b></div>
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10:00am to 6:30pm daily (last admission to POLW at 4:30pm)</div>
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<b>Admission Charges: </b></div>
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Weekdays -$8.00<i> (receive 50 curio coins and Port Pass)</i></div>
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Weekends & holidays - $15.00 <i>(receive 100 curio coins and Port Pass)</i></div>
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Annual membership - $90.00 <i>(600 curio coins, Port Pass and unlimited admission)</i></div>
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Charges is per child - accompanying adults enter for free. Love it!</div>
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Another reason why you should visit now? POLW is also having an opening specials - there's 15% off ticketing charges, and 20% off membership. For a limited period only.</div>
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For more information, check out POLW <a href="http://www.polw.com.sg/">website</a> or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/polwsentosa">its Facebook page</a>.</div>
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<br /></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-39897043144348042612012-04-15T10:55:00.000+08:002012-04-17T03:28:43.322+08:00Falling Back into PlaceDrained is how I felt the past two weeks.<br />
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Mom had been to the A&E twice during that period of time, and on the second visit, she got admitted.<br />
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The daily ferrying of the boy to and fro school, the looming deadlines, and spending a few hours every day in the hospital, made me feel drained of energy and emotions. On some days, I wished I could just lie in bed and not wake up. But the fact that I'm mom makes having a full day's rest impossible - at least in my case, because Kenan is a "mommy's boy" who looks to me for almost everything.<br />
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So, I'm really thankful when the mom-in-law agreed to stay over a few days to help me look after Kenan and supervise the maid. At least I could then go to the hospital for a few hours everyday with peace of mind, knowing that my boy will be well taken care of.<br />
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I'm also grateful for the hubby who tried to cheer me up and surprised me with a box of my favourite cakes. By the way, the bakery is not within our neighbourhood, I'm touched that he went that extra mile for me.<br />
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<i>I call this the 'rainbow cake' - the cheerful colours sure perked me up. But nothing beats the sweet gesture of the hubby that warmed my heart...</i></div>
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After a few days' stay in hospital, mom is now back at home and slowly recovering.<br />
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Life is falling back into the usual routine, and routine is something I find myself craving for more and more these days. I like how routine gives me a sense of surety - just like knowing that the sun will always shine after the rain, reminding me that God is always there with and for me, even though I may not feel His Presence all the time.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wOFlDCCpAWY/T4o1TTq5ZfI/AAAAAAAABaQ/fbT5RPSKEGg/s1600/sunraybehindcloud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wOFlDCCpAWY/T4o1TTq5ZfI/AAAAAAAABaQ/fbT5RPSKEGg/s1600/sunraybehindcloud.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=1750">source</a></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Through waves and clouds and storms</b></span></div>
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<b><span style="background-color: white;">His power will
clear your way;</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="background-color: white;"> </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="background-color: white;">Wait for his time;
the darkest night</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="background-color: white;"> </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="background-color: white;">Shall end in
brightest day.</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="background-color: white;"> </span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">--Paul Gerhardt</span></div>
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This post is a link up with Mama J's weekly Grateful Gatherings.<br />
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<center><a href="http://makingmum.blogspot.com/search/label/Thankful%20Tuesdays"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-57ZG9DRzL3Y/Tx_eDL6EkEI/AAAAAAAAD3c/Z-FQP5Z4y_4/s260/Rainbow.jpg" /></a></center><br />
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-16391709898073269762012-04-04T16:30:00.000+08:002012-04-17T03:30:25.577+08:00L'etoile - A Remote "Star" DiscoveredI eat when I'm stressed. I eat when I'm happy. I celebrate special occasions, a project completed, getting a new client - basically whatever 'excuses' that I can find for the moment, with eating.<br />
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And I don't just eat at "the usual places" (though there are favourites that I keep going back to). Instead, the hubby and I would go on a hunt for somewhere new. We love both the excitement of the hunt and the satisfaction and delight from finding a gem.<br />
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And we've been exploring a few places lately, the <a href="http://www.letoile.com.sg/">L'etoile cafe</a> being one of our latest find. It was an overcast Sunday afternoon; the boy was napping when we decided on a whim to head out for afternoon tea. I did a quick check on google for new cafes and found L'etoile. We love it that it's not in the city; there's something attractive about an off-the-beaten-track location. They usually make for good getaways from the daily hustle and bustle, don't you think so?<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d-vjMFMpLo0/T3rCYffHYuI/AAAAAAAABZA/dZh_9M3J2z0/s1600/Letoile_comb1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d-vjMFMpLo0/T3rCYffHYuI/AAAAAAAABZA/dZh_9M3J2z0/s1600/Letoile_comb1.jpg" /></a></div>
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L'etoile, which means "star" in French, is housed in a white, two storey shophouse at the junction of Owen Road and Dorset Road in Little India. Other shops nearby were closed on the day of our visit, so I can't say if it will be equally peaceful on a weekday (I've never been to this part of Singapore before this).</div>
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<b>The Vibe: </b>The indie cafe is inspired by French-themed Japanese cafes that the owner used to frequent when she was living in Nagoya some years back. This explains why the cafe exudes an eclectic charm that is both homely and inviting - simple, modern furniture such as wooden tables with red plastic chairs and sofa seats on the first floor, while a different world awaits the unsuspected customer as he ascends the staircase and steps into the spacious second floor: pretty lace curtains, black fans twirling lazily from the ceiling, old pieces of furniture and vintage items like a typewriter, grandfather clock and sewing-machine-turned-coffee-table are scattered around the room, with eye-catching, hand-painted bird cages adorning the walls.<br />
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Not surprising then, that all the seats here were occupied and we had to make do with the only vacant table on the first level (it's near the toilet and unfortunately, there was some unpleasant smell whenever someone opened the door).<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aBQTJGt97kg/T3rmzdHaGGI/AAAAAAAABZQ/mkfVopV1el0/s1600/Letoile_comb3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aBQTJGt97kg/T3rmzdHaGGI/AAAAAAAABZQ/mkfVopV1el0/s1600/Letoile_comb3.jpg" /></a></div>
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Top right pic: Can you see the sewing-machine-turned-coffee-table at the bottom right corner? Bottom pics: there are plenty of reading materials, another reason why you might just end up staying longer.</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Being a "lifestyle shop cum cafe", L'etoile sells knick knacks that friends bring back from their holidays (see top left pic).</span></div>
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<b>The food: </b>We weren't particularly hungry, so only ordered the macha azuki cupcake and carrot cake to share. I read that the cakes here are made by a Cordon Bleu-trained patissier, and I eagerly tucked into our orders. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7dpNU1pB4nk/T3vh8XkGM8I/AAAAAAAABZY/UoEhVBrM7Zs/s1600/Letoile_comb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7dpNU1pB4nk/T3vh8XkGM8I/AAAAAAAABZY/UoEhVBrM7Zs/s1600/Letoile_comb2.jpg" /></a></div>
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We both fell in love with the macha cupcake. It wasn't too sweet, the green tea cream was very fragrant and we thought the cupcake had a little caramel taste to it. The carrot cake was, in comparison, a bit lackluster. It was lighter in taste than most carrot cakes I've eaten but the saving grace was how every bite was full of crunchy walnuts. </div>
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We also enjoyed the pot of aromatic Earl Grey with lavender tea - it was an uplifting drink on a lazy afternoon (we aren't exactly coffee drinkers). However, we thought it was a bit too little for two person. We probably get a pot each the next time.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vbk9fwj8yQc/T3viCjORqwI/AAAAAAAABZg/cWXuDfEhfn4/s1600/Letoile_comb5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vbk9fwj8yQc/T3viCjORqwI/AAAAAAAABZg/cWXuDfEhfn4/s1600/Letoile_comb5.jpg" /></a></div>
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L'etoile also sells pies, crepes, scones and sandwiches. Brunch is available till 4pm on weekends and on most public holidays.</div>
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<b>Family factor:</b> If you have young kids, the cafe has highchairs available. Older kids might find it interesting to explore some of the vintage items on the second floor (most likely they have never seen an old sewing machine or a typewriter), just make sure not to spoil them!<br />
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By the way, if you drive, finding a place to park could be a challenge. We managed to park at some parallel lots further down from the cafe, but only because we were lucky to have spotted the only available lot left. Later, I checked streetdirectory.com and found another car park:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2fV1EDVU9Vo/T3wEx_5nZFI/AAAAAAAABZ4/uua5lKtznuE/s1600/Letoile_map.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2fV1EDVU9Vo/T3wEx_5nZFI/AAAAAAAABZ4/uua5lKtznuE/s1600/Letoile_map.png" /></a></div>
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Map taken from <a href="http://streetdirectory.com/">streetdirectory.com</a></div>
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But like many Singaporeans, there's nothing to stop us when there's nice food and drinks awaiting.<br />
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<b>L'etoile </b><br />
160 Owen Road<br />
Operating hours: 9am to 8pm.<br />
Closed on Mondays<br />
Tel: 6298 2872<br />
<br /></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-50436679743651029572012-04-01T09:00:00.000+08:002012-04-17T03:30:40.146+08:00Baker & Cook - Simple Name, Great Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kNlZC6pDnhk/T3dchBXMmhI/AAAAAAAABYg/jasIKdsSJsk/s1600/Baker&Cook_comb2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kNlZC6pDnhk/T3dchBXMmhI/AAAAAAAABYg/jasIKdsSJsk/s1600/Baker&Cook_comb2.JPG" /></a></div>
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Nestled in a cosy corner of the Greenwood enclave of restaurants is <a href="http://www.bakerandcook.biz/index.htm">Baker & Cook</a>, a relatively new artisan bakery cum café that has already garnered a following of sorts, judging by the crowd it draws on the Monday afternoon I was there.<br />
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Baker & Cook is set up by Dean Brettschneider, who is <a href="http://www.bakerandcook.biz/about.htm">"regarded as one of the most respected bakers on the planet"</a> and has over 25 years of experience under his belt. He has also authored 10 best-selling baking books and has his own TV shows.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yILjW3MKQdk/T3dc83hTkyI/AAAAAAAABYo/fXmYYFdkXw4/s1600/Baker&Cook_comb4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yILjW3MKQdk/T3dc83hTkyI/AAAAAAAABYo/fXmYYFdkXw4/s1600/Baker&Cook_comb4.JPG" /></a></div>
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<i>With </i><i>a celebrity baker as the owner and </i><i>an maxim that says "passion is our main ingredient", you can bet they serve some really great food here</i></div>
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<b>The Vibe: </b>Warm, chic with a casual feel; a large communal table in the middle of the glass-paneled café adds to the friendly atmosphere here. The service staff are also full of smiles, which makes the place so much more welcoming. Outdoor seats are also available. No doubts the café is designed to be a great hangout place.<br />
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<b>The Food:</b> Cakes, muffins, tarts, breads, quiche, pizzas, sandwiches, pies (which come served with choice salad) - there's just <a href="http://www.bakerandcook.biz/products.htm">so much to choose from</a>.<br />
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<span style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />Explaining about the fare they serve, Dean said, “Being a multi-cultural and multi-racial city, there is mix
of nationalities here. That suits my type of baking which is not French, Danish
nor German, but a mixture and great range of baking styles which will appeal to
the sophisticated population in Singapore.”</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">And they make their own jams too (three flavours) - Apparently they are to be found at every table but I didn't notice it during my visit. What a pity! Maybe I was too engrossed in my conversations, shall keep a look out the next time I'm there.</span></div>
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<i>Love the Bombolini donut (right bottom pic) - no guilt eating this as it isn't too sweet </i></div>
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Anyway, I didn't eat much; but I tried their Bombolini donuts and I love it. You don't be deceived by its look though. While it's coated with sugar, it actually isn't too sweet. So is the custard found inside the donut -smooth, fragrant and with just the right amount of sweetness. The secret? They don't use sugar in their dough. I couldn't resist buying some home and my hubby who doesn't exactly fancy sweet bakes said it's good.<br />
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Drinks include coffees, teas, smoothies and cold drinks. I had the Vitamin Burst - has "lots of vitamin C from orange juice and a whole kiwi and plenty of anti-oxidants from blueberries". Very refreshing on a hot Monday afternoon, and don't we women need lots of vitamins for that healthy glow?<br />
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<b>Family factor: </b>They have highchairs here, so you can bring your little ones. More importantly, it makes for a lovely place to hang out with other mommies or girl friends!<br />
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I'm kinda craving for another donut, maybe it's time to head to Baker & Cook again.<br />
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<b>Baker & Cook</b><br />
77 Hillcrest Road<br />
Singapore 288951<br />
Tel: 6469 8834<br />
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<b>Opening hours</b><br />
Sunday - Thursday: 7am - 8pm<br />
Friday - Saturday: 7am - 10pm<br />
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<br /></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-72693465776342622182012-03-29T08:30:00.000+08:002012-03-29T08:30:02.034+08:00Having Fun Without GadgetsI know that it is inevitable that my boy gets exposed to gadgets and be drawn to them as a source of entertainment. While I'm guilty of the occasional "gadget babysitting", I still believe that at my son's age, he should really be exploring the world around him instead of getting fixated on a screen that may potentially put him on the path to myopia.<br />
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So I'm learning to close an eye to mess he creates in the name of fun and play, as long as he keeps away from my hubby's and my iPhones (no, we don't own an iPad as we don't want him to get the idea that he's got another new 'toy' to play with, so it's still the laptop for us).<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bitsrEHLFhg/T3NQ-e6wF9I/AAAAAAAABYA/GCIQMfsr9Zw/s1600/playpapers_comb1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bitsrEHLFhg/T3NQ-e6wF9I/AAAAAAAABYA/GCIQMfsr9Zw/s1600/playpapers_comb1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Newspapers being thrown all over the floor. I'm not sure how fun this is but he sure enjoyed it!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I5I5sNna8qE/T3NRQKGpEXI/AAAAAAAABYI/T_uI3HmtTZY/s1600/playpapers_comb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I5I5sNna8qE/T3NRQKGpEXI/AAAAAAAABYI/T_uI3HmtTZY/s1600/playpapers_comb2.jpg" /></a></div>
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He got all fingers black and dirty, so we whisked away to the bathroom for a wash. It's the first time he held a bar of soap in his hands (before that it's always the handwash) so it was another round of play again!</div>
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How about you? Are you ok with letting your child play with gadgets? How often and for how long are they allowed on the gadget each time?</div>
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<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-60734947312053623432012-03-28T20:46:00.000+08:002012-03-29T01:33:19.487+08:00The Ultimate (almost) Guide to Feeding Medicine to Toddlers<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NqTw3p6rqgM/T3MFhlV-eDI/AAAAAAAABXw/CjUMzFdZRfU/s1600/Grumpy+child.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NqTw3p6rqgM/T3MFhlV-eDI/AAAAAAAABXw/CjUMzFdZRfU/s400/Grumpy+child.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=862">Source: freedigitalphotos</a></i></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">I know being a parent is going to be
challenging. I’ve experienced the breastfeeding difficulties, now dealing with
the ‘terrible twos’ and thinking of potty training gives me the headache. But never,
not even for once, had I thought that giving medicine would be included in the list
of parenting challenges! After all, we didn’t have that problem when Kenan was
a baby. So when it did happen, the hubby and I were at a total lost.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">Few weeks ago, my boy was prescribed
an antibiotic together with several other medications for cough, phlegm and
running nose. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">While it wasn’t easy peasy giving him
the other medications, it was nothing compared to the antibiotic. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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For the first two days, we managed to get him to take it, but not without some
struggle. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">However, from Day 3 onwards, no matter
what we did - coax, persuade, scold, threaten, try mixing with milk then chocolate
milk – he simply refused. If we did manage to force some in – which took the combined
effort of three adults, it would almost always spew out immediately, together
with whatever food that was being digested in his stomach. The whole experience
left all of us frustrated, exhausted, and to some extent, traumatised. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">A week later, we went back for a doctor’s
review and I shared with her what happened. After a discussion, the pediatrician felt
that a change of medicine to something with more 'palatable' taste and texture might
just help.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">And it did turn out to be a good
decision. By employing two different methods to feed him the medicine and giving him some rewards for the 'suffering' he endured, we succeed in getting him to finish the full course (five
days).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #333333;">What we did to get Kenan to take his antibiotic<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">1. Mixed it with Meiji chocolate milk
(please see No.2 at “More tips” section below). The Meiji brand’s chocolate
milk (which is our family’s favourite) is good as it’s thick and very
chocolatey, so it helps to mask the taste of the second antibiotic. It didn’t
work for the first one though, as that antibiotic was really very strong in
smell and taste and the texture was more ‘sandy’/’grainy’ (by the way, dear
folks at Meiji, if the milk starts flying off the shelves, how about giving me
a commission?)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">2. Prepare a cup of honey water (you
could try Ribena too). After squinting some antibiotic into his mouth via a
syringe, we let him drink a mouthful of honey water and repeat the process until
the medication is finished. I adapted this method from Friend LK’s method. She
would use two syringes, </span><span style="color: #333333;">one with medicine and another one
with water, and one teaspoon of honey. Start with medicine (half dose),
followed by water and then lastly honey. Repeat the same process for the remaining
dose. Do it fast and squirt the syringe at the side of the child’s mouth.
Prepare more water and honey if needed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">3. Rewards. Kenan is recently into
stickers so I rewarded him with them after he took the medicine. </span><span style="color: #333333;">The first day, I gave him a sticker and he was real happy. The
next day, he asked for two and I gave him. The third day, he bargained for
three! And as you would have guessed by now, he told me he wants four stickers
on the fourth day! Oh my, the little boy was keeping track!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The little boy sticking his hard-earned 'reward' into his book</div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">I also shared about the ‘ordeal’ on
Facebook and many parent friends shared their experiences with me, together
with some great tips to go along. Below is the compilation of the tips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b>More tips on feeding medicine<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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1. When using the syringe, feed it at the corner of the mouth
so that it goes directly down the throat and the child doesn’t taste the
medicine so much, said Friend S. “<span style="color: #333333;">I used to squint medicine in the
middle and the bitterness just makes my kids react. This method has worked well
for me,” she added.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">2. Mix the medication into some food or drinks
e.g. yogurt, fruit juice, milk, Ribena. But some will work better than others,
depending on the type of medicine and how strong the taste is. So a bit of
experimentation is needed here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">3. Not all antibiotics can be mixed
with milk, please check with your doctor. When mixing with milk, it might be a
good idea to do so with another brand than the one your child normally drinks. As
Friend ND noted, “T</span><span style="color: #333333;">he child may associate milk with
medicine in future and lose interest in drinking the milk.” That was true in
our case. After I added the antibiotic to his formula (just once) and he
rejected it, he was so hesitant to drink his milk when I subsequently gave it
to him. But thankfully after explaining to him that it was just plain milk, he
took it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">4. Friend MY uses two syringes, one
with medicine, the other with water. After giving a bit of medicine, quickly squint
in some water from the second syringe to “wash down the medicine”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">5. If your toddler can’t finish the
medicine in one sitting, then spread it out. “Give bit by bit, every few
minutes, you don’t have to feed all at once”, Friend MY highlighted. This may be tiring
for parents but it beats having your child vomits it all out.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">6. Give the medicine before food (before
you do this, just check with doctor that it’s ok to do so for the particular
medicine). I used to think that unless told otherwise, all medication should be
taken after food. So when I applied this to feeding medicine to Kenan, we ended
up with vomited medicine AND food. Then we not only have to worry about giving
him the medicine again, we also had to think about whether to give him some
food too since he vomited it out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">7. Lastly, Friend SL uses a very
simple trick to get her child to take medicine – she puts two M&Ms into
the medicine and viola, no fight, no struggle – the child takes the medicine in
one quick mouth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">So there you have it. The art of
feeding toddler medicine. If you have
other tips in feeding a toddler medicine, please share with me!<o:p></o:p></span></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-69232556060866482992012-03-19T08:00:00.000+08:002012-03-19T08:00:01.200+08:00Tough Times Don't Last... A Positive Mindset DoesThe past week had come and gone. It had been trying in many ways. First, our family got a new helper and with it comes the challenge of adapting to someone new and going through the whole 'train a new maid' process again. Along the way, I learnt some expensive (literally) lessons in not assuming that an experienced helper would definitely know how to handle the 'simple' stuff or knows exactly what not to do.<br />
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Like I thought she knew how to open our main door. But turned out she didn't and I got locked out of the house. Worse was that the lock got damaged and I had to change it, which cost me a few hundred bucks. Later in the week, she saw minor leakage in the pipe below the kitchen sink and attempted to 'repair' it. She didn't succeed and I called in the plumber (just when I was rushing out for an important meeting with client) and spent another hundred bucks. <br />
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Then, there was the little one who had been refusing his antibiotic. Every medication time turned into a major battle that easily lasted half an hour. It left us, the adults, feeling totally defeated and depressed. What made it even more challenging was that each time we thought we found a way to get him to take his medication, the next day, he might refuse again and we had to think of something new again. It's totally exhausting. It doesn't help that I've been sleeping late to rush some projects and was more short-fused as a result. Thankfully, he's only got to take the antibiotic for one more day!<br />
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In times like these, it's easy for me to complain about how difficult things were and start dwelling on the negative.<br />
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But I know it won't make the situation any better. Instead, I decided to look out for the silver lining and focus on the little victories and successes. Here's my discoveries in pictorials...<br />
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One evening, the little boy came into my room and started creating a mess by pulling the tissues out of the box. I got angry...</div>
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But when I saw how happy he was, my anger disappeared. I'm learning to be more relaxed about toddler-created mess, to see things from the little boy's perspective and enjoy the humour in such childish acts, for I know that these will not last and someday I'll look back and wish for more of such moments.</div>
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With a toddler around, I'm learning to look at what's around me with fresh eyes - like the way my boy creatively used his toy to redesign the door knob (he lengthened it and make it more "user-friendly").</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SapWFCuCUVA/T2YRu0YmXWI/AAAAAAAABXY/EsA5vq28GJU/s1600/umbrella_comb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SapWFCuCUVA/T2YRu0YmXWI/AAAAAAAABXY/EsA5vq28GJU/s1600/umbrella_comb.jpg" /></a></div>
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My boy is also a constant reminder that the greatest joy is often found in the simplest things.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CBRTijp7iiA/T2YS4qfDOQI/AAAAAAAABXo/0L1ysOw2fG8/s1600/iPhone+677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CBRTijp7iiA/T2YS4qfDOQI/AAAAAAAABXo/0L1ysOw2fG8/s400/iPhone+677.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Work had piled up high as I had been sick for two weeks. It hadn't been productive working at home and I finally decided to get out of the house, enjoy a nice, simple breakfast at a cafe and worked there. In two hours, I finished a project. Sometimes, a simple change of environment (getting away from all the usual distractions and disturbances) is all it takes to work more productively.</div>
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Lastly, I thank God for surrounding me with beauty (I love the colours of the leaves), filling my heart with Peace and giving me new Hope everyday. </div>
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How about you? How do you keep positive when the going gets tough? Or what tips do you have in working more productively (I need more ideas for this!)?</div>
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I'm thankful for the lessons learnt last week and praying for a beautiful new week. May you have a great week too!</div>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's learning to dance in the rain."</span> </b>~ unknown</div>
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<i>(saw this quote on a friend's Facebook page and thought how true)</i></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-78805877395248502312012-03-17T02:40:00.000+08:002012-03-19T01:22:10.718+08:00I Got a Makeover!Ok, it's not me. It's my blog that got a makeover. How do you like the new look?<br />
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Since I started my blog, I've attempted to change the look twice, but mainly just by tweaking the header design which I DIY:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dtH1Ud3kyJo/T2N48ccYsoI/AAAAAAAABWE/eXGr-AUlVwQ/s1600/blogdesign2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dtH1Ud3kyJo/T2N48ccYsoI/AAAAAAAABWE/eXGr-AUlVwQ/s400/blogdesign2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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But somehow I felt they fell short of what I want - something 'nicer' and prettier. but I just don't have the technical know-how to do it. So I was researching for a blog designer when I got introduced, quite by chance, to Patricia from <a href="http://www.fancygirldesigns.com/">Fancy Girl Designs</a>.</div>
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After looking at her portfolio, I immediately decided to work with her. Something about her designs appealed to me and I sort of knew that she could create the look I want, though honestly I didn't have a strong idea what it was then.</div>
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There's where the talented Patricia did a wonderful job with. </div>
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To begin, she had me fill in a questionnaire that gave her information she needed to conceptualise the design. In the process of filling up the form, I also got a clearer picture of what I wanted.<br />
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Patricia then sent me two design concepts but I feel she has a special knack for knowing what someone wants because the first design she sent me (which is this one) was right on target. It felt as if she had read my mind!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xa8IE5nUBUc/T2OJFlvj0zI/AAAAAAAABWY/zA5TKMB5UIY/s1600/blogdesign3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xa8IE5nUBUc/T2OJFlvj0zI/AAAAAAAABWY/zA5TKMB5UIY/s400/blogdesign3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I am really happy with how my blog looks now. Thank you, Patricia!</div>
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<br /></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-57348655828100074742012-03-15T01:43:00.002+08:002012-03-15T02:23:01.852+08:00My Favourite Hawker Stalls: Chen Ji's Char Siew & Roast Pork<br />
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<span lang="EN-US">I love
eating (don’t be fooled by my size!) and good food makes me happy. Especially
during cold, wet weather like now. It makes me feel warm and cozy after a
hearty meal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">And when it
comes to good food, I believe that it’s not just limited to those whipped up by
chefs in some fancy restaurants. There are some real gems to be discovered among
the ‘humble’ local hawker fare. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Just the
other day, I was going through my photos and saw some of my favourite hawker
food. I thought why don’t I start sharing about them too? Instead of only
reviewing restaurants and cafés. Boring.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">So today,
I’ll start with my favourite char siew and roast pork stall at Alexandra Village Food Centre: <b>陈记烧腊</b> Chen Ji Shao La (no English name).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s2g-pFgIukA/T2DWuH9MZRI/AAAAAAAABUY/HrUMDtjhiOA/s1600/ChenJi+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s2g-pFgIukA/T2DWuH9MZRI/AAAAAAAABUY/HrUMDtjhiOA/s400/ChenJi+(4).JPG" width="296" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span>My hubby
and I chanced upon this stall by accident. We were there on a weekend with the
intention of satisfying our craving for claypot laksa but it was closed. We spotted a short queue at this stall and
decided to give it a try.</div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Boy! We
were thrilled by what we tasted. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">In my
<a href="http://ruthwongwrites.blogspot.com/2011/02/kls-restoran-oversea-comes-to-town.html">previous post</a>, I shared about how I’m a huge fan of the char siew and roast
pork at Restoran Oversea in Kuala Lumpur</span><span lang="EN-US">. I was excited when they opened up
a branch here. But we were a tad disappointed as they didn’t replicate the
exact same taste and texture as what they serve in KL (most likely too fat and oily for most Singaporeans but I love it!), and it’s more expensive here.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">So you can imagine
our delight when we found something that we think is good enough as a
substitute and at such affordable prices too. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">So what’s
so nice about this stall’s food?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5klI6xGxZfk/T2DX1GkiJ9I/AAAAAAAABUg/NWyBj8DzZx4/s1600/ChenJi+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5klI6xGxZfk/T2DX1GkiJ9I/AAAAAAAABUg/NWyBj8DzZx4/s1600/ChenJi+(3).JPG" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">First, the
char siew. It’s sweeter, stickier than most char siew you’ll find in Singapore.
It’s beautifully caramelized with a shiny glaze and has a little fat so that when you
put it into your mouth and start chewing, it will be sweet, juicy and tender
(not dry and hard like what you get at some other stalls). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Next, the
roast pork. What I really love about this roast pork is how crispy the skin is (think crunch, crunch, crunch...).
Like the char siew, the meat is considered tender and very flavourful.</span></div>
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Oh yes, the gravy they give is very nice too. </div>
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<span lang="EN-US">And from what I can observe, both items are made right in the stall – as fresh as
it can ever get. They also sell roast duck. We've not tried that yet though, despite having gone there about three times now. Perhaps that's how much we enjoy their char siew and roast pork.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b>Chen Ji Shao La</b></div>
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Alexandra Village Food Centre</div>
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Blk 120 Bukit Merah Lane 1</div>
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#01-33</div>
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For all my other food reviews, click <a href="http://ruthwongwrites.blogspot.com/search/label/Food%20Reviews">here</a>.</div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-89703757550178752822012-03-12T01:27:00.002+08:002012-03-12T01:27:39.769+08:00Rainbow Bear Books: Giveaway ResultsThank you for your participation in the books giveaway! Sorry for the slight delay in posting the results.<br />
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As there's only one person who asked for 'Dinosaur Discovery', so there's no draw for that book. The rest of you asked for the 'Alphabet Zoo' and the winner is randomly picked by Random.org and the results is:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9k9WfcUiKwY/T1zeLnZ09ZI/AAAAAAAABUQ/UHRx0jzRpP8/s1600/rainbowbear_result.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9k9WfcUiKwY/T1zeLnZ09ZI/AAAAAAAABUQ/UHRx0jzRpP8/s400/rainbowbear_result.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Congratulations to the two winners:<br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><b>PC</b></span> (for Dinosaur Discovery) and <span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><b>Wendy</b></span> (for Alphabet Zoo)!</div>
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Please email me at ruthwongwrites@gmail.com within the next 7 days about your prizes. Hope the books will help you in nurturing the love for reading in your children. Would love to hear about how they are enjoying the books! </div>
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<br /></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-56619787271836142462012-03-11T09:26:00.001+08:002012-03-11T09:26:35.932+08:00Sick and ThankfulIt seems like when you're a mom, being sick takes at least double the time to recover. Especially when you're having a sore throat.<br />
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I've been having a sore throat and cough for over two weeks now and lost my voice twice in between that period. I also saw the doctors four times - because I was eager (or maybe even desperate) to recover. Because I hate coughing in the middle of the night and not being able to sleep. One of the doctors asked me to rest my throat more and I smiled and said I'll try. But inside, I was thinking "No way!" When you have a toddler who is testing the boundaries all the time, I'm thankful enough that I don't have to yell all the time.<br />
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And <a href="http://ruthwongwrites.blogspot.com/2012/02/thankful-thursday-simple-happiness.html">the little boy has been sick too</a>. He probably caught a bug at school and was the first to be sick at home. But boy, what a difference age makes when it comes to being sick. Despite having fevers, a running nose and coughing, he is full of energy and playful as ever, as if he isn't sick at all. Argh.<br />
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But I'm thankful. I'm thankful that my boy hasn't been more sick. I'm thankful that as a WAHM, I can try to rest whenever possible and not worry that the bosses be unhappy that I'm less productive at work, or worse, have to be absent from the office with an MC.<br />
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So while the past few weeks had been trying in various ways, I'm still thankful for God in how He's blessed us in so many ways.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-411-pdLiNIw/T1v9L2Y6CCI/AAAAAAAABUA/f8QRlroiCAk/s1600/happy4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-411-pdLiNIw/T1v9L2Y6CCI/AAAAAAAABUA/f8QRlroiCAk/s1600/happy4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Thankful for clear blue skies... showers of blessings... and sunshine after the rain... reminding me to be hopeful and stay positive</div>
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Thankful for the joy in the little boy and for God in keeping him strong</div>
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<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-31336806820550285712012-03-06T08:45:00.000+08:002012-03-20T16:46:23.441+08:00Spanking New Playground at Tampines 1While there are quite a few water-themed playgrounds atop some of the local shopping malls, we've never took Kenan to one. Well, let me clarify. He did go to one once, but it was by chance that we came across it. Since we didn't bring along an extra set of clothes for change, the boy didn't get to play there.<br />
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So I was really happy to be invited to a special preview of Singapore's first wet-and-dry wildlife-themed rooftop playground at <a href="http://www.tampines1.com.sg/main/home">Tampines 1</a>.<br />
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Accessible by escalator on 5F (near Amore Living and KOHONG Fish Spa), the playground is divided into different areas to depict different continents and endangered species.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">For example, the bigger polar bear slide and the smaller seal slide (two bottom pics) represents the Antartica. </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ekOziPa8WW0/T1TxXfMfM3I/AAAAAAAABTA/B570VEWgUkU/s1600/Tampines1_comb1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ekOziPa8WW0/T1TxXfMfM3I/AAAAAAAABTA/B570VEWgUkU/s1600/Tampines1_comb1.jpg" /></a></div>
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There are also educational signboards to teach children about the specific region and about the animals. However, I had been too busy chasing Kenan and trying to take his photos and forgot to snap pics of the signboards.</div>
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This is the dry play area. It didn't keep dry for long as children who played at the water area came over to enjoy the facilities and got the place wet as well. So even if you think that your child will only be playing at the dry area, do bring along an extra set of clothes since there's a high chance that the place is wet too.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DpAqpSEYbtw/T1TzeUg9AtI/AAAAAAAABTQ/W6BCyP5WmFY/s1600/Tampines1_comb4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DpAqpSEYbtw/T1TzeUg9AtI/AAAAAAAABTQ/W6BCyP5WmFY/s1600/Tampines1_comb4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Kenan was initially more excited about the balloon than the playground itself. He only got more interested with the playground when the balloon burst. Thanks to Tampines 1, the little boy also got to play with a water gun that came with the goodie bag we received.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4odUBTE9CNU/T1T0LxH-ZfI/AAAAAAAABTg/V44Krb0w4EY/s1600/Tampines1_comb5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4odUBTE9CNU/T1T0LxH-ZfI/AAAAAAAABTg/V44Krb0w4EY/s1600/Tampines1_comb5.jpg" /></a></div>
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And Kenan made some new friends too. As you can see, he couldn't resist hugging them!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B0iDlvxtd7k/T1T0fbIuA1I/AAAAAAAABTo/XykQZ6oGUTY/s1600/Tampines1_comb3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B0iDlvxtd7k/T1T0fbIuA1I/AAAAAAAABTo/XykQZ6oGUTY/s1600/Tampines1_comb3.jpg" /></a></div>
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After all the play, children can take a quick shower or get changed at the toilet/shower area which is located to the left of the entrance.</div>
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You can also check some other bloggers' write up and to see more photos:</div>
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<a href="http://madpsychmum.blogspot.com/2012/03/unveiling-new-wild-playground-at.html">MadPsychMum</a></div>
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<a href="http://sengkangbabies.blogspot.com/2012/03/tampines-1-water-playground.html">SengkangBabies</a></div>
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<a href="http://mamawearpapashirt.com/2012/03/06/mad-about-water/">mamawearpapashirt</a></div>
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<a href="http://ajugglingmom.com/2012/03/wildlife-themed-rooftop-playground-in-tampines-1/">A Juggling Mom</a></div>
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And do visit to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheMommyCafe">Mommy Cafe's Facebook page</a> as I've uploaded more pictures over there.</div>
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Thank you once again to the management of Tampines 1 and the really nice folks at Fleishman-Hillard for the invite. We had a really great time!</div>
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The playground will officially open to public on 10 March 2012. Have lots of fun at this spanking new place!</div>
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<br /></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5365659276629199118.post-5234368360752484792012-03-05T21:30:00.000+08:002012-03-05T21:30:02.588+08:00Getting Creative with the Big BlocksThe boy is getting creative.<br />
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Just last week, he made this structure right in the middle of the living room.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PKPc4-HpZ40/T1SLiacqUzI/AAAAAAAABSg/ze7i5n3eOSE/s1600/Bigblok+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PKPc4-HpZ40/T1SLiacqUzI/AAAAAAAABSg/ze7i5n3eOSE/s1600/Bigblok+(3).JPG" /></a></div>
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I asked him what was it and he replied, "Houses!"</div>
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"Huh?" I couldn't quite figure out how it resembles a house. He decided to help me out. </div>
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With pride beaming across his face, he pointed to the windows and repeated the word "houses". I looked out and all of a sudden, I understood what he meant.</div>
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He was making these 'houses'! (or flats as we call them in Singapore)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V93DTXxuRCE/T1SMxFadEMI/AAAAAAAABSw/VubBxY-Vp9Q/s1600/Flats.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V93DTXxuRCE/T1SMxFadEMI/AAAAAAAABSw/VubBxY-Vp9Q/s1600/Flats.JPG" /></a></div>
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How very clever right?</div>
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And I'm glad we still have the big blocks at home, which I purchased on impulse a while back. </div>
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The moment it was delivered, I sort of regretted it. As you can see, these blocks can be built into life-size structures, so you can imagine how much space they occupy (as compared to a Lego set, which serves the same purpose anyway).</div>
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<i><a href="http://www.haenim.co.kr/haenim_english/product4.htm">Haenim big blocks</a> from Korea. Kenan and daddy building all kinds life-size structures e.g. table and chair, toy houses etc.</i></div>
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So for a while, I've been thinking about selling it off. Now that Kenan seems to enjoy playing with it and starts making something meaningful with them, I'm undecided. However, space is still my concern. What do you think? Do you think it's worth keeping? When it comes to your kid's toys, how do you decide whether to keep or give away/discard something?</div>
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<br /></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09613696691629642498noreply@blogger.com