Decisions...

Many were shocked to know I am going to embark in a new career, and at the same time, I will be managing my 3 imps without help.

I smell challenge coming my way, albeit Hubs and I decided this is an ideal arrangement at least for now), as it is just as important to us to have more parental involvement in our children's growing years.

Letting go of my Mom's help after so many years may sound like an impulse decision we had made. Trust me, many things went through, a lot of emotional exchanges and exasperation that I (or probably we, Mom may feel the same too!) went through is quite a toil.

"Can you manage alone?"

This question was posted to me many times. In her words to a few relatives and dear Papa, I am selfish. Let it be. I know jolly well how unhappy I was for many months that made up as a few years. I have Hubs' understanding in this matter. This is most important isn't it?

Decision was shaken once, I was furious upon knowing what was told to others. I silently bear with it, swallowing my tears. I can't tell anyone. Not even the dearest that sleeps next to me.

Since the chance arises for a change, there is little reason I should let the opportunity slip by.

I appreciate what was done when her aid was around, I really do. Sane or strain, I have to make a choice. I decided to stay sane by straining a lil.

Why are we turning things this way? I guess the lack of parental involvement in my early years carve an impact. This impact, affects me so much so that it cannot be mended no matter how hard I tried.

Our Soccer Fans!

Papa is into England and Manchester United. There are some other teams he supported. Look at his lil ones!

Ain't they looking cool?

On phones!

Hubby enjoys shopping. There are even more reasons to go to the malls in this sweltering heat.

Plaza Singapura is not a place we frequent. For several reasons and parking is one of them. It's simply too crowded on weekends, the carpark I mean.

The man wanted to pop over today as they have a Samsung roadshow by one of the red telco. You may have guessed, it's for the latest Samsung Galaxy SIII.

The telco arranged for a magic show performance and it fascinated the children.

I ain't kissing goodbye to my iPhone, yet. I fell in love with the the aesthetic of this phone. Lighter, bigger screen, superior camera functions...blah blah blah!

One thing we both enjoyed is to have our 3 lil imps in tow.

I am looking forward to using my new toy! Can't wait! Simply can't wait!

Dreams...

Like I mentioned in the earlier post, we had a change of plan, hopefully for the better for both the family and the children.

I did some explaining to E, sharing with her about the change, and what can be expected.

Least expected from her was when she replied, "Don't give up your dreams. You are still young. Do things you think it's best for yourself. Don't always give up your dreams for us, Mom."

Tears welled up when I heard these from my firstborn. Ain't she growing up so fast?

Indeed I may be giving up some of my dreams, what I had aspired to do and aspired to be when I was younger. No, I do not have regrets. For children will only be this young once, soon, they will no longer need me!

On our way to Bugis, I explained to her the need to make such a change. On our way back, I explained to her it was not entirely a sacrifice.

Life isn't smooth sailing as we would love it'd be.

This change may be for the better. The well being of the children is much more of a priority compared to anything else at this phase of parenthood.

Here's us. We took the MRT out instead of driving today!

That Step

It took me such a long time to take this step.

The agony, the emotional burden and the feelings of others. I am thankful for the twist of events that steered me forward to this day when I finally spoke up for the better of us.

No bad feelings (just some weird facial reactions), it was a calm transpiration.

Somehow, I am really looking forward to this fresh start. I need positive vibes around. No baggage, no ill feelings. Just a peaceful life I'd been yearning for.

Good luck to us!

Middle Child Syndrome?

Before M was born, many friends around us would highlight to us to watch out for B's change in behavior and emotional needs. Simpy put, they meant Middle Child Syndrome.

As usual, the worrywart me went scouring through the web trying to figure out the signs and syndromes; coupled with a few suggestions those online experts may suggest to help the middle child overcome this phase. In my mind, I always wonder - will this MCS eventually fade away with age?

Nearing the middle stage of my second trimester, B suddenly refused to go to school. He would be clinging, and tugging me whenever I sent him to school Why so? I always ponder. He used to love school so much!

Such behavior didn't last long. I credit that to my consistent show of love and assurance to B, with the aid of the school teachers who are so encouraging and explained to the class on what to expect when you have a new sibling.

The centre supervisor as well as the teacher updated me consistently on B's reactions on the new sibling topic. I count my blessings on this.

M came soon after. I had already prepared EB (well, E was able to understand better than she did 4 years ago this time), what to expect and that I will be away for that few days after M's arrival.

Everything went on smoothly for us. I am thankful for the sensible children I am blessed with.

Even though it was a smooth journey for the past 4 months (and counting), I will constantly remind myself and hubs that we need to show a lil more for our only son. At the same time, we shan't neglect the girls in any way.

Tough job huh? This is part of the challenge in parenting!

Safari @ Changi

Terminal 3 is such a familiar hideout for us.

Just last Saturday, we went there with the kids for dinner. At the same time, to drain out that excess energy they have in them.

Weekends at T3 is really crowded, besides those who are traveling or returning, there are also shoppers and diners like us.

They have been holding some events for children whenever it's the school break. This time, they had a Safari @ Changi.

With animal rides and a play-gym kind of playground. This doesn't come free of course, you will have to spend $20 ($15 for us, the Changi rewards card holder) at the retail outlets and redeem the passes for entry.

For those who planned to go, do bear in mind it's really crowded on weekends and you will have to exchange the passes earlier. The last slot for play is at 9.40pm.

What is important is not the money spent. We need to have our dinner there anyway. What matters more is the children enjoying themselves.

Moments...

With E...

In a stage where we call tween, this firstborn of ours is really a gem despite the monstrous moments wrapped under that dainty-looking skin.

Mid year results were released 1 day prior to term break. It was like a moment more exasperating than I was receiving my own report book eons ago! I remembered acting cool while E hopped on the car. I (still trying to act nonchalant) asked,

"So, how was school today?"

E: "Great! Mom, I got back my portfolio....(and she rattled on)..."

I was still trying to act cool.

"So, it's just your portfolio and all the DVD that records your presentation that you managed to score full marks?"

E: "(continued ranting on...)....Mom, there is also my report book."

FINALLY! That is the thing I was trying to find out.

"Oh?! So, how do you think of your results? Are they acceptable to you? (C'mon, I mean GRADES!)

E: "I think you may be disappointed."

Suddenly, the 2 minutes drive home seems too long! I probably looked flustered.

E: "Mom, are you alright?"

Me: "Baby, what makes you think I will be disappointed with your grades? Are they very bad? You didn't do too badly for your tests."

E: "I think I have 2 band 2." 

Parking the car took me 4 tries that day. I simply couldn't park it well no matter how hard I tried.

Quickly pulled the car, and E showed me her report book. My heart is thumping unusually fast in my mouth!

Me: "Hmm...Baby, you get all Band 1! And all in the 90s range. What Band 2 are you talking about??"

I can see her eyes lit up! 

She confessed that she did not really go through her scores in the report book. All she did was flip through and kept it back in her bag.

Yes, grades are important to a certain extent. Afterall, we are in a society that looks at numbers and alphabets. What I always emphasize besides grades is their attitude towards learning. That will see them through their lifetime, while better grades probably put them in a better ground when they begin their career.

She hopes to join the best class, i.e. 3A next year. I will be around to render my utmost support to help her fulfill her needs.

Around B...

My ever so cheerful boy! 

This boy melts my heart, always! He is always singing his love, saying the loves and showing his love to me. What more can I ask for?

He loves his sisters. Loves everyone around him!

We realized he is more expressive verbally nowadays too! That is probably the aid of the speech and drama classes that he has been attending beginning of this year.

B, at 4 years old aspires to be a chef and also a pilot. Let's see how long these 2 ambitions lasts for him.

Our M,

No doubts about it, she is apple of our eyes. 

All of us surround her daily, as she has such a cheerful nature just like B when he was this young (He still is now!).

She is another motor mouth in the making. She coo day and night, and during her milk feeds too! Haha...

Bliss, is surrounded by all my three darlings, basking in their laughter and nonsense (at times).

No, I ain't complaining. I LOVE such moments!