Ashley, you have done well in P4. Congrats!

Dearest Ashley,

Mummy has captured your composition on "The lessons I learned in SA2" in my blog:

I am satisfied with this year's exams as all my subjects improved except Chinese. I scored above 80 for all subjects except Chinese.

I didn't do well in my SA2 Chinese because my Teacher said the paper would be very hard and I keep saying to myself I will not do well and I didn't practise much on Chinese.

I worked very hard for my other subjects. I was surprise I topped my class in English. My Math and Science were ok but I made a few careless mistakes. I would be more careful in the future. Next year will be a very hard year and I will do my best :-)

Ashley, Mummy & Daddy are happy to see good improvements in your Eng, Math and Science. However, we are less pleased with 3 areas:
1. Your negative self-talk and lack of focus during Chinese paper that led to your under-performance in Chinese
2. Your carelessness in your work
3. Your inconsistent performance over the last few years

You know you can do even better if you:
1. Practise positive self-talk. If the Teacher says the paper is tough, that means you must put in more effort
2. Practise CRU in your Math paper. We are very happy that you scored 19 out of 20 for your SA2 problem sums. We will be happier if you check your work carefully. Some exam papers you could even score 100%.
3. Your focus during the exam papers determine your performance. You have practised hard and your understanding of every subject is good. However, the difference in scoring 80 or 90 depends on one thing - Focus during the exam paper.

Besides achieving academic improvement, you also did well on Pei Hwa's stage! Mummy and Daddy are so proud of you as we watched your year-end performance. We are pleasantly surprise that you are the spokesperson of Drama club this year. I like what you have written in your school magazine. This is a great honor!

You were the MC during the International Friendship Day. Your Bilingual fluency on stage also won you much admiration among your friends and Teachers. Remember what Zheng Laoshi said about you? She believes you can shine on stage and academically if you put in alot of hardwork. Mum and Dad also believe you can do it!

Love,
Your Proud Mum & Dad

The Elves and the Shoemaker Musical

Dearest Ashley,

Thanks to you. We got to enjoy the wonderful Musical of "The Elves and the Shoemaker". We spent a lovely evening cum supper with JH's family too. That's a real bonus. That evening's highlight must be meeting Mr. Brian Seward at the Box Office. You even took a photo with the Director of the Musical cum your Drama Teacher. Lucky You!

The next morning, we talked about our favourite character at the breakfast table. You like Gepetto best as he is very funny; Abby likes Cinderella as she is very beautiful; Daddy likes the Elves as they are very kind and brave. They risked their life to help the shoemaker; Mummy likes the Shoemaker as they are very kind. See, ordinary people like the Shoemaker can also create magic with a little touch and a little imagination.

Here's the Director/Playwright's Message lifted from the brochure:
"Magic lies in the realm of the imagination.
When you lose the power to imagine, then you lose the magic.
When you never ask the question "what if...?" then the magic dies.
When you let someone else think for you - let them control and run your life,
then the magic may be taken from you."

Have fun learning from the BEST - Mr. Brian Seward!

Love,
Mummy Dearest

Having fun in the waiting room during the Charity concert

Dearest Ashley and Abby,
Mummy is very happy that we were invited to perform at "Kwong Wai Shiu" hospital charity concert. It is a wonderful feeling to contribute to the less fortunate in our special way besides donating money. All the students sang "点石成金" very well on stage. While waiting for the finale, you guys took the initiative to practise the new song "Singapore Pie" "新加坡派". Well done!

Mummy look forward to your performance on 27 Nov performance at Dr. Liang Wern Fook's 2nd instrumental album launch at the Book Fest!

Love,
Mummy Dearest

My Kor Kor, My Swimming Coach

Dearest Abby,

Mummy is so happy to see that you're learning how to swim from Ashley Kor Kor. You are a wonderful learner. Likewise, Kor Kor is a fantastic swimming coach. Mummy looks forward to your next swimming lesson and play. Enjoy the video!

Love,
Mummy Dearest

Playing piano with your classmate to relax after exams

Dearest Ashley,

Hurray! Exams was finally over. You can take a break now. You invited J-En, your classmate of 3 years to our home to play. As you guys took turns to play the piano, Mummy noticed a common thread that runs through you and J-En - both enjoy music very much, be it playing the piano or singing at Jiu Jian laoshi's class, you immersed yourself in the beautiful melody. Both of you are among the loudest and most serious students during singing class. Keep it up!

Love,
Mummy Dearest

Dancing Kings and Queens from Our Fun Place

Dearest Ashley and Abby,

Like you, Mummy always look forward to Our Fun Place holiday programmes. From the video, I can see you guys, together with Our Fun Place's children, were having so much fun dancing away! Mummy is so glad to start a fun learning center with Teacher Esther. Happy dancing, happy learning!

A Special Tribute to Parents

Dearest Ashley and Abby,

Though this is the 7th time we celebrated Mothers' Day at DES, this year is especially special as your cousins were involved in the celebration and performance.

As Mummy watched Ashley delivered the speech as the MC and led the singing, the image of the 3.5 years old Ashley performing his first wushu at DES Mothers' Day celebration came to my mind. Gosh, Mummy, Godma, Ee Ee and Nai nai were so emotional when we saw you performing wushu that we used up 4 packets of tissue paper in just 3 minutes! You were like Ashwyn when you first started out at DES. You have grown so much.

Mummy liked the gentle look in your eyes as you sang, so full of happiness and kindness. Mummy admired your courage to step forward to showcase your talents. Ashley, just a little reminder - with more practice, Mummy knows you can do even better. Enjoy the video!

Love,
Mummy Dearest

A Museum of failed products by Robert Maximus

Dearest Ashley & Abby,

Do you know there is a very special Museum in America that collects failed products ranging from Coca cola, IBM, and other big brands in the market? Why did the Founder, Robert Maximus decide to start this unique Museum in 1960?

Here's his reply," When companies try to create new products, 80% will fail. If we can analyse why the products failed and seek better understanding in terms of consumer's needs, then we can eventually create successful new products. Conversely, if we did not take failure seriously and learn from our mistakes, we will always make the same mistake and make no progress."

To succeed or fail is not the most important thing. The most important thing is not being afraid of failure. Instead, see failure as the foundation stone, and have the courage to start from ground zero again.

Similarly, children must always be prepared to fall. When the child falls, he/she must be prepared to get up. In order to build a resilient child, the parents must change first. When our child falls, instead of asking,"Is it painful? Do you want Mummy to carry you?", we should say,"You'll be fine. Must learn to endure the pain." and let the child get up by himself/herself.

As parents, are we afraid of our children falling/failing?

Please remember while we are afraid of our children failing, we're taking away his/her opportunity to grow. We should cultivate the courage of getting up after failing and the drive to continue to keep trying.

A child who encountered failure and learned from it will succeed in life.

As your Mum, being No.1 is not important. The most important thing is that you have put in your best effort. Even if you fail, you will have the courage to get up and try again.

Love,
Mummy Dearest

Performance at the Singapore Lantern Festival @ Chinatown

Dearest Ashley and Abby,

Wow! Singing in the rain in front of Dr. Lily Neo and hundreds of live audience must be an exhilarating experience for you.

The fireworks and 孔明灯 were breathtaking! Did you make a wish before you release the 孔明灯 into the dark sky?

Jun Heng and Jun Tian also came to support you guys. So nice of them.

You guys sang very well and for the first time, Mummy saw your face on a big screen. You guys looked like Pros. Mum and Dad enjoy every performance of yours. Enjoy the video.

Love,
Mummy Dearest

Siblings bonding through playing "Genossa"

Dearest Ashley and Abby,

The best way to start the morning is by listening to your beautiful music. Mummy is very happy when I see you guys enjoy being together, learning and caring for each other.

Love,
Mummy Dearest

Talent vs. Passion

Dearest Ashley,

Did you recall the discussion of Talent vs. Passion Mummy and Mr. Peck had after dinner? Talent means the skill that someone has quite naturally to do something that is hard like playing the piano, acting, singing and public speaking, etc. Passion is an intense enthusiasm/desire for something that someone will go all out to do it for himself/herself despite challenges/roadblocks.

Mummy still remembers you would rehearse the scripts and songs for The Lion King Musical, Chinese Musical and School drama first thing you opened your eyes in the morning. You enjoyed these activities as you have the natural gifts/ talents for performing arts. However, talent is not equal to passion. Here's 3 real-life stories of Passion:

1. Kieran, the Passionate Pianist in pursuit of his dream

Kieran fell in love with piano at 18. He started his first piano lesson at 18 and in 8 months, he passed grade 8 exams. How on earth did he do that? He is so passionate with piano that he learned from 3 different teachers on techniques and compositions, practised 6~7 hours daily as he wanted to learn as much as he could.
Another amazing thing about Kieran is whenever he sees a grand piano in hotels, restaurants and Borders, he would approach the manager to ask if he could play the piano. I still remember we watched him playing the piano at Borders two years back. He also played the piano at the posh restaurant in Shanghai while we dined. The restaurant guests applauded.

He simply loves what he is doing. With hardwork, he has successfully transformed his talent into Passion.

He is on his way to Berklee College of Music where he will chart his career in music with unstoppable passion!

2. Mr. Peck and Jiu Jian 老师, Passionate Teachers who made a difference in students' lives

As a student of both Mr. Peck and Jiu Jian 老师, am sure you could feel their passion in teaching the students. Besides teaching you the skills, they will tell jokes and stories to inject more fun in learning; they affirm students for who they are and they are always encouraging and caring towards the students. I always remember you enjoyed entertaining your cousins with Mr. Peck's Tan Ah Teck story and the funny poems during Mr. Peck's class. With encouragement and coaching from both Passionate Teachers, you have become more confident each day. Like what Mr. Peck said, he enjoys music but he is passionate about teaching. He has been teaching for 16 years and the passion to teach grows and glows in him with each passing day.

3. Mr. Willin Low, the Passionate and Charitable Lawyer turned celebrity chef, entrepreneur and culinary innovator

Remember Mummy shared with you the story of a lawyer who took bus to work for 8 years, never bought anything more than $1000 and work as a chef-for-hire on weekends? Willin is so passionate about becoming a chef that he would work very hard as a lawyer to save every dollar to open his first restaurant. He demonstrated the discipline and determination to pursue his life-long dream. This is Passion!

Willin’s work with the Yellow Ribbon Project (helping ex-convicts), Children Cancer Foundation (granting wishes to children with cancer), The Straits Times Pocket Fund (helping children from poor families) and Dover Park Hospice have earned his charity stripes in Singapore, it also made him the choice to conduct Gourmet Abu Dhabi’s inaugural charity dinner. This is Passion!

Mummy likes his definition of Success - Successful people get to do what they enjoy and at the same time, makes the life of other people better. This is Passion!

Vdieo of Willin - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Be1A4GKKjNI

Hmmm...what's Mummy's passion? My passion is to become the Best Mum to you and Abby!

What's yours?

Love you always,
Mummy Dearest

Ashley: Mum, I love your 腊味饭

Dearest Ashley,
Mummy invited my family over for dinner tonight and you ate 3 bowls of Mummy's 腊味饭!  Mummy loves it when you complimented my cooking tonight.  Thank you for appreciating my effort. Interesting, the 3 hours of preparation and cooking was actually fun for me.  While I was busy in the kitchen, I could hear you playing the piano.  I love it!  Very relaxing...

By the way, could you taste the improvement in my cooking?  Remember what Mummy said to you earlier? If you love something or someone, the something/someone will love you back.  Like cooking, I'm loving it more each day and I could feel my cooking loves me back too.  Likewise, if you love learning, learning will love you too. 

In my eyes, you're such an intelligent young man.  You know you're capable of better grades. 

Remember what you shared with me in the car on the day of your Kancil performance? You wish to be in the same class as some of your drama friends who are now in the top classes because you guys share the same humor and interest in drama?  Mummy believes your dream will come true if you keep your focus in the coming 3 weeks before exams.  This year will be a breakthrough for you, son!

All the Best to your exams.

Love Love,
Mummy Dearest

Ashley, you'll have your first taste of acting in a movie very soon

Dearest Ashley,

Sometimes, Mummy just feels that you take after Godma more than me.  Like her, you enjoy stage performance.  Thanks to your school, you were notified to go for the Movie audition.  So nice of your school Chinese teacher and Jiu Jian Laoshi to prepare you for the audition.

The big day finally came. While Mummy was waiting for you at the Substation for 45 mins, I glued my ears to the door to hear what was happening inside the audition room. I could hear big bang so I guessed you might be doing some wushu stunts.  I could also hear dialogue between you and a lady so I guessed you might be acting a scene with the lady. When you finally came out of the room, I could see your face lit with joy.  At first I thought you got the role on the spot!  The organizer informed us that the results will be out in Oct.

In the car, you shared with us that you had to act out a scene with an actress in Mandarin on the spot. Wow! I don't think Mummy can do it. The best part is you enjoyed the experience. Great stuff!

When we learned that you got a supporting role in the movie in Oct, we're overjoyed. Am sure it will be another memorable learning journey for you and Mummy.  Thanks for all the exposures you've brought to us.  Now I know what is a feature film.  Thank you, son.

Love,
Mummy Dearest 

Abby's 1st composition

Dearest Abby,

Mummy loves your first composition, very joyful and catchy.  Keep up the composing spirit!

Hug Hug,
Mummy Dearest

You really take after your Daddy, Abby

Dearest Abby,

 As you get older each day, Mummy, Daddy and Ah Ma feel that you take after your Daddy more and more.  Like Daddy, you're gentle, kind, considerate, patient and have a good sense of humor. Like Daddy, you're a thinker and a creator. Just look at the beautiful little people and furnitures you have created.  The sink looks futuristic!

You would build your own playground, house and play with your toys by yourself for hours. The stories you made up are out of this world. Wow! Happy story telling!

Love Love,
Mummy Dearest

A Multi-talented Singer in the Making...

Dearest Ashley,

Mum & Dad love to watch you sing, dance and wushu moves.  We're so captivated by your charm on stage.  Well done! Take a look at the video in Mummy's Facebook as I'm unable to upload it on my blog.

Mummy can't wait to see you on the big stage at UCC on 4 Dec.  You go, boy.  Give it your best shot!!!


Love You Always,
Mummy Dearest

OMG! Ashley, you're the Most Charming Kancil on stage!

Dearest Ashley,
OMG! I can't believe my eyes that it was my boy on stage this morning.  You were totally into the Kancil character and every part of your body moved like a mouse deer.  Mummy's eyes wer teary as I watched you acting and singing on stage.  Well done, my boy.  Mummy is very proud of you.

After watching you in the Chinese Musical and today's Kancil drama performance in your school, Mummy is pretty sure you'll definitely pursue your passion in drama seriously in years to come.  I can almost see a shinning star on the world's stage.  Good Job, Son.  Keep it up!!!!

Mummy can't wait to watch the full drama performance in Nov during Prize Presentation ceremony.  Remember our little secret?  With focus and hardwork, am sure your wish will come true on the Prize Presentation ceremony.

Love,
Mummy Dearest

A Graceful Dancer in the making...

Dearest Abby,

Mum & Dad love to watch you dance.  You danced so well at last Sun's Children's Day celebration at DES. Mummy simply can't take my eyes off you.  Kudos to your superb groove and memory. In my eyes, you're the "Prettiest Shepherd".  Mummy had a good laugh watching you chasing the "goats". Hahaha...

Love Love,
Mummy Dearest

One stormy night...

Dearest Abby,
In the middle of one stormy night, you climbed into Mum & Dad's bed.  You were looking for your Pooh Bear qulit.  Once you found it, you shared my pillow and slept close to Mummy.  You even covered me with your Pooh Bear qulit and hugged me to sleep.  So nice of you to take care of Mummy even in your half-asleep mode.  Mummy is very touched.  You're indeed a very filial daughter. Sob...Sob...Mummy is shedding tears of joy now....

Love You My Darling,
Mummy Dearest

Pillow talk with Abby

Dearest Abby,

Mummy was very touched by your matured and humble sharing last night.  During our bedtime story session, you asked me who led the singing rehearsal in DES.  Typically, Kor Kor will lead the singing but last Sunday he did not join the singing as he had wushu practice. You whispered into my ears that you held the mic and led the singing. Well done!

What surprised me was your very factual reply:

Abby,"I know how to sing 点石成金 because Mummy sent me for singing lesson."

You did not comment how good was your singing nor share with Daddy or Kor Kor or anyone that you led the singing session.  You did not brag about it though Mummy thought this was a big thing as it is a honor to lead the whole afternoon session of over 60 students and teachers.  For a little 5+ years old girl, you have showed a much higher degree of maturity and humbleness than anyone older than you.

Mummy is very proud of you for being a talented and humble girl.

Love Always,
Mummy Dearest

The legacy of Mr. Lien Shih Sheng, late pioneer writer and newspaperman, lives on

Dearest Ashley and Abby,

Remember Aunty Siaou Sze?  Mummy is so excited when I chanced upon the newspaper article this evening featuring her late Father, Mr. Lien Shih Sheng's book launch at the Peking University on 17 Sept'11. As shared with you, Aunty Siaou Sze has inspired me in so many ways.  She is a wise, kind, capable and resilient Woman of Substance, One in a Million.

The influence of her late Father on her and her siblings had positively shaped them to be who they are today. Mummy attempts to summarize some of the key teachings of Mr. Lien purely from my perspective:

• 因材施教 - Based on each child's personality, Mr. Lien would personalize his teaching approach towards each child
• 人要忠于学问,做事要对人温和和宽恕 - We must continue to learn, be kind and forgiving to others
• 父亲从小注重对孩子的启蒙, 为了把唐诗之美传达给我们,他把唐诗写在卡片上,久了多到可以串连起来 - Father placed great emphasis on childhood education. He would write numerous Chinese poems on the cards for us and over time, we could join them together
• 他喜欢为孩子讲故事 - He loved to tell stories for his children
• 父亲每天要我们写字练笔,并亲自评改,也把一些有关学习和人生的哲理名言整理成座右铭,当中有好些，我还牢记在心 - Father would instruct us to practise our writing daily and he would correct our work. He would gather some life philosophy and words of wisdom and made them our motto; I could still remember some of them till today
• 个人方面, 父亲认为，千万不可眼高手低，坐二望五，这样将会永远无法满足和快乐 - On the personal front, Father reckoned that one should not simply set high goals without putting in the right amount of effort or simply dreaming of attaining high position. One would never be satisfied and happy
• 对工作，父亲的看法是，人不必绝顶聪明，勤能补拙，只要有恒心，就能扬名立万 - On the professional front, Father reckoned that one need not be the smartest, but hardwork and determination matter more in attaining success in life
• 他求人宽，求己严，主张凡事不要在鸡蛋里挑骨头 - Set high standard for oneself but be lenient to others and do not try to find fault that was not there
• 父亲为人处处以和为贵，也往往以身作则 - Father seeked harmony constantly and walked the talk
• 在教育孩子时，连士升实行“三好”：身体好、读书好、大家相亲相爱 - In educating his children, Mr. Lien practised "3 Goodness": Good Health, Good Study and be Good to one another
• 父亲一生多病，却乐观进取，没有消沉不振 - Father suffered poor health but he was always positive and never gave up
• 每当孩子有病，带去看诊的，也是会说英语的父亲 - Whenever we were sick, Father would bring us to the Doctor and conversed in English with the Doctor

Mr. Lien's legacy lives on as his books and essays are still benefiting generations after generations of readers over 4 decades as they offer useful insights on dealing with family members, how to succeed in school, and the importance of human relations in all aspects of our lives.

Mummy and Daddy have learned so much from this article and will be studying his books together to gain more wisdom so that we could share with our loved ones.

Love,
Mum & Dad Dearest

My Mentor's wise words on life, marriage and parenting

Dearest Ashley and Abby,

Mummy is very blessed with kind and wise close friends around me, constantly inspiring and rubbing off their brilliance on me.  Uncle Don is one of them.  We had our 3rd birthday lunch yesterday.  Besides Ee Ee, Uncle Don is the only one who shares the same birth date as me. I still remember the first time we met, we chatted over two hours.  Though we are 23 years apart, we have many things in common. I'll like to share with you what I've learned from him yesterday:

On Life...."Life is what you give into it and the returns could be 10 folds."

On Life..." We can control the rivers' mouths but we cannot control people's mouth."

On Marriage...."We have our differences. But our children did not come to this world by themselves.  We brought them here.  We have the responsibility to give them a safe and happy home especially when the outside world can be harsh and unforgiving.  What chances do they have in life if they can't even come home to feel loved and cared for?"

On Marriage...."We're just like the 2 big rough rocks at the seashore, being hit by waves after waves.  Over time, the waves smoothen the surface of these 2 big rocks."

On Parenting..."When my kids were young, they were chaffeured by a driver to school. I would teach them to thank the driver when they reached home/school. Having a grateful heart is very important in children."

On Parenting..."We're the Captain of the Family Ship.  We must build a ship with strong foundation before we can steer them in the right direction."

On Success..." If we won the world but lost our family, that is not success. Bringing up good children is one of the greatest successes."

On Feeling Good..."To be able to help others, especially those who need my help, makes me feel good."

In my eyes, Uncle Don is a Successful man both on a professional and personal fronts: At 62, he is still a very successful serial entrepreneur; his two grown-up boys are experts in their own fields and very family-centric.  Don, I wish to be like you when I reach 62 years old. Look forward to our birthday celebration year after year.  Cheers!

Love,
Mummy Dearest

Ashley, it just takes few hours for you to be like your friend, but it may take your friend few years to be like you. You are Special!

Dearest Ashley,

Remember what Dad said to you yesterday in the car? Maybe because your friend has everything he wanted, be it handphone, iPad, PSP and all the electronics gadgets and toys in this world, that's why he couldn't control his anger and tried to harm himself and people around him repeatedly?

Having all the love from our loved ones and all the material things that we could wish for look may like a perfect picture.  But, think again? Why your friend is still unhappy? Why did kids only go to him to borrow his phone to play games? Why did kids refuse to catch him during playtime? Why did he cry so easily?

Think again. You do not possess any electronics gadgets but why are you liked by your classmates and friends? Why did your friend, Mark photocopy the scripts and file it nicely for you without you asking? Why did your buddy, Jun Henn, teach you how to play "Baby Baby" on piano and enjoy omelette rice together almost everyday? Why did your form Teacher choose you as his buddy? Why did your classmate only invite you, the only guy, to her baking birthday party? Why did your friends confide in you? Why did your friends want to join your team in soccer, table tennis and captains ball? Why did they come to support you in the Musical? Is it because of the things that they could get from you? 

As a matter of fact, you have nothing to give them except your genuine friendship and care. Mummy was very touched when one of your friend's Mum showed me the secret note you had written for her son. In the note, you encouraged your friend to study hard and love his mum.  That's so wonderful.  That reminds Mummy that since nursery till now, all your Teachers wrote,"Ashley is a helpful and caring boy." Mummy is so proud of you, son.

You are a very special boy with special inner qualities that as you grow older, it will have a positive snowball effect in your life. What your friends have on the outside, you can buy them. But, what you have inside, your friends cannot buy from any shop in this world.  Having said that, Mum and Dad agreed to buy you your 1st electronics gadget after SA2, no conditions to be fulfilled but conditions will come after the purchase. We know you will understand that the condiitions we set later for the iPad usage is for your own good, son.

Love You Always,
Mum & Dad

Important lessons by Stillwater the Panda from Zen shorts

Dearest Ashley and Abby,

Don't you adore Stillwater the Panda and the three stories he shared with his new friends Karl, Michael, and Addy? Here's the first story "良叔叔与月亮"....

良叔叔 is a kind man. He leads a simple life with bare necessities.  He always gives something to his guests when they visit him, including the robber who broke into his house.  He could not find anything in his house so he gave his only tattered robe to the robber.

Like his name, 善良的善, he is very kind.  He does not judge people but is sincere to everyone. He even wishes the robber could one day receives the 明月in his heart to guide him (the moon symbolizes the light in the darkness). 

Here's the second story"塞翁矢马"...

The farmer 塞翁 is very poor but hardworking.  One day, his only horse ran away.  His neighbours sympathized him and said, "What bad luck you have." He said, "Maybe." Few days later, his horse came back with two wild horses.  His neighbours said to you, "What good luck you have!" He said, "Maybe." Later, his son fell from the untamed horse and broke his leg.  Again, his neighbours said,"What bad luck you have." He said,"Maybe." Few days later, the army came to gather all the young men to fight the war but decided not to take his son as his leg was broken, his neighbours said,"What good luck you have." As usual, he said,"Maybe."

Sometimes, bad news may result in good outcome at the end and vice versa. As what Forest Gump said, "Life is like a box of chocolate, you never know what you are going to get." Any experience, good or bad, is part of a learning journey for us.  We just have to embrace them.  Remember what Mum said to you yesterday in the car when you said you almost died after 2.5 hours of strenuous back flip wushu practice?  What does not kill you make you stronger.  Hey, you're stronger than the day before.  Congrats!!!

Here's the third story "老僧与小僧"...

An old monk and his young disciple met a lady in a carriage.  The lady could not get off the carriage as there was a puddle of water.  Her servant could not help her as they were carrying her belongings.  The old monk just piggy back her from the carriage to the shop. The lady was very rude towards the old monk and did not even thank him for his help.  The old monk just kept quiet and continued his journey.  His young disciple was fuming mad and after 2 hours of walking, he finally asked the old monk why didn't he feel angry about the impolite lady?  The old monk replied,"I already put her down 2 hours ago and why are you still holding on to her?"

Sometimes, we tend to hold on to negative feelings such as anger or jealousy for too long. It is better to let go such emotions so that we can move on and be happy again.

Mummy enjoys the three stories very much.  So meaningful and profound.  Like Stillwater, it is very important for us to have a clear mind so that we can see things better.  Just like the clear water in the pond, you can see the reflection of the sky clearly.  Conversely, if our mind is crowded with negative thoughts and feelings, we cannot see things clearly.  Can you still see the reflection of the clear blue sky if the water is rippled?

So good to be your Mum 'cos if not for you, I would never get to know this wonderful panda, Stillwater. Stillness inspires Peacefulness and Wisdom, creates Meaningful Life and Miracle!

Hugs,
Mummy Dearest

Bedtime stories by Abby

Dearest Abby,

Last night, Mummy read you the library book "团圆". 毛毛's Dad only comes home once a year as he has to work overseas to support his family.  He only spends 4 days in 365 days with her and her Mummy. "团圆" means reunion. 

I can see that you were touched by the story but what surprise Mummy was your innocent question, "Why her Mummy married a man who only come home once a year?"

Mummy tried to explain to you that some families need their Dad or Mum to work overseas to feed the family.  We're very blessed that we see our family every day. We should cherish one another. Like you and Kor Kor, when you care for each other and love each other, every day is a happy day in our family. When you and Kor Kor argue, even though you are physically together, it is not "团圆" as your hearts are not binded together like 毛毛 and her Dad.

You also shared with Mummy that you placed 2 good pets and one bad pet in one cubicle so that the good pets can teach the bad pet well.  That's very kind of you to allow the good pets to have good influence on the bad pet.

The last story you shared with Mummy was your observation of one of your friends who behaved like a girl.  He cried easily when he lost the chop stick game to you and being teased by a naughty student.  Mummy was very touched when you shared with me that you taught him how to win you in chop stick.  You also stand up against the naughty student. Last night, you allowed Kor Kor to sleep on your bed while you slept on the mattress.  That's so gracious and kind. Thank you for being such a thoughtful daughter, my dearest darling.

Love,
Mummy Dearest

The Best Birthday Gifts I've received

Dearest Ashley and Abby,

Ashley, thank you for making a lovely paper tulip for me on my birthday. Am surprised you figured out yourself as Mummy only taught you simple origami folds like penguin and basketball hoop.  I love it!

Abby, thank you for drawing a beautiful birthday card with thoughtful words, "Thanks Mum for cooking lovely food for us" for me on my birthday. I'm motivated to be the Best Weekend Chef!

Thank you for playing the Birthday songs for me. Thank you for the Wei Wei Kang Kang Musical DVD. You guys were great performers. Best of all, thank you for being obedient, honest and compassionate children. Mummy is truly very proud of both of you. Thank you for making my 39th birthday a special day in my life.

Today marks a new beginning in my life. With your love and patience, I've come to realise the tone of my voice and the look in my eyes, will make or break you.

Last week, I chanced upon Bollywood Veggies's Ms. Ivy-Singh-Lim's interview with FM 93.8's A slice of Life. I was totally blown away by her. The 2 most important lessons I learned from her: 1) Tell our children that they are special and they have the gift to help the less fortunate and 2)Teach them to grow a plant, be close to nature, create things and love people and animals.

I've made a resolution that I will be more patient with you, not judge and nag at you. I'll raise my awareness to check my emotions instead of showing my negative emotions to you.  Mummy also needs to learn to express my feelings in words not act out my frustrations.

Oh ya, not having a domestic helper for nearly 10 months after being served by them for 10 years helped Mummy reached my realisation.  Never know cleaning the house, wishing the dishes and doing the laundry could enlighten me so much.  Now I truly comprehend the saying, "Things happened for a reason". Hehehe...

Hugs,
Mummy Dearest

Letter to the Best Daughter in the World Wide World

Dearest Abby,

With your permission, Mummy is posting this letter on my blog...

On my birthday, I've written a poem specially for you, my sweetest Princess.  I hope you like it.

Thank you for being an obedient, thoughtful, kind, gentle, talented, brave and jovial daughter.  Your gentleness and kindness have rubbed off everyone around you.  I love you from head to toe, from your heart to your hair, my Angel.

Bouncy Bunny. Pure White Dove. Determined Giraffe

Like A Bouncy Bunny,
You bounce happily with your family and friends,
Singing merry tunes as you dance and swirl in the garden.

Like A Pure White Dove,
Your heart is pure and kind,
Spreading goodness around you,
and drawing rainbows in the sky.

Like A Determined Giraffe,
You stretch your tongue to lick the brightest star in the night,
When you see a shooting star,
You wish to hitch a ride from the zooming star,
to visit your friend, Luna,
so that she will not be lonely anymore.

Love,
Mummy Dearest

Letter to the Best Son in the World Wide World on my Birthday

Dearest Ashley,

With your permission, Mummy is posting this letter on my blog...

Today marks the day I was born 39 years ago. On this special day, I wish to express my appreciation to you, my beloved Prince.

I've created a poem especially for you on my birthday. I hope you like it.

You're my No. 1 Idol - Intelligent. Kind, Helpful, Fearless, Focused, Funny and Talented.

I love you with all my heart, my Precious Warrior.


Fearless Horse. Joyful Monkey. Talented Humming Bird

Like A Fearless Horse,
You gallop swiftly like the wind,
Braving through steep mountains and deep valleys,
You lead your family and companions to a safe haven.

Like A Joyful Monkey,
Your contagious laughter brings joy to everyone,
Your presence uplifts the good spirit in all of us,
You are You, and we simply love who you are.

Like A Talented Humming Bird,
Your Beautiful voice rings in our ears and strikes a cord in our hearts,
Even a casual flap of your wings or an accidental release of gas,
is still music to our ears.

Love,
Mummy Dearest

A special Teachers' Day gift

Dearest Ashley and Abby,

Mummy didn't expect my one and only banana cake is so well received by both of you. You requested Mum to bake banana cakes to present to your Teachers tomorrow. Mum was energized by you kids even after a day's hard work. Abby even helped me in the kitchen till she dozed off. She even suggested we decorate the cakes. What a brilliant idea!

Enjoy your Teachers' day celebration tomorrow! Oh, I hope your Teachers and your classmates like Mum's banana cake. Hehehe....

Love,
Mummy Dearest

Spending one-to-one time at home with Ashley

Dearest Ashley,

Yesterday, Mummy enjoyed cooking for you the entire day. Morning, we had Mum's famous banana cake for breakfast, baked cod fish for lunch, butter corn for tea break and sweet melon for desert.

We even learned how to play "River flows in me" together. Mummy read aloud the notes from Youtube while you played out the notes on the piano. I just realized a better way of learning how to play new pieces from Youtube - Get you a iPad and place it in front of you on the piano! How about that?

You've been pestering us to get an iPad for the longest time but we do not see the need. Now, Mummy feels that having an iPad on the piano will allow you to learn new pieces from Youtube much easier than Mummy shouting out the notes to you from another end of the house. The only condition is that you must make good use of the iPad.

Mum and Dad will support your passion in learning. Remember what Mummy said to you? If the thing is beneficial to you, we'll get it for you. If the thing is not beneficial to you, we'll reject it even if it is free.

Love,
Mummy Dearest

Ashley,"Mum, your banana cake is famous now!"

Dearest Ashley,

You really know how to motivate Mummy to cook and bake. So far, I only know how to bake banana cake and last Sunday was my 3rd attempt to cake one for your Teachers at DES. While I was busy baking cake, you commented,"Mum, your banana cake is famous now!" I was so touched.

At the Teachers' Day party, you brought me a piece of chocolate cake before you got your own food. Mummy was touched again as I saw a boy who remembered to feed Mummy before self. Thank you, my filial son.

I was pleasantly surprised when Abby and you went straight for my banana cake among all the food on the table. You even brought Mum's banana cake to your teachers. That moment, I knew you were proud of Mummy's banana cake. Thank you for being so proud of me and my banana cake. I could never imagine that as I only learn how to bake my very first cake one month ago. Guess what? Suddenly Mummy has this urge to attend baking class to learn the proper techniques of baking banana cake, cheese cake, pandan chiffon cake and many other delicious cake in case you get tired of eating Mum's banana cake. Hahaha...

Love,
Mummy Dearest

Ashley, don't you feel good playing "Genossa"!

Dearest Ashley,

Thanks to Kieran, your No. 1 Idol, you learned a new piece, "Genossa" just in time for Auntie Pat's birthday. She enjoyed your piano recitation and even gave you a kiss! See, if you put your heart in things you believe in, you can do it.

From the day you received the score from Kieran on Wed to your second piano practice on Friday evening, you've spent about 3~4 hours learning the new piece. Mum & Dad are very proud of you. More importantly, you are proud of yourself. Well done. Please continue to spread joy to people around you with your gift.

Love,
Mummy Dearest

So nice to find a friend who shares the same interests as you!

Dearest Ashley,

Mummy was very pleased that you found a new buddy, Jun Henn. Mummy simply enjoyed watching you guys taking turns to play the piano, learning from each other new piano pieces such as River flows in me, Baby Baby, Never say Never, etc; paying full concentration in completing your homework; discussing the topic on Trustworthiness after a simple home-cooked lunch of cod fish and tempura; playing Wii and swimming, etc. Enjoy the videos and photos!

True friendship can start instantly but takes time to build. Here are some qualities you find in good friends:

1. A good friend is someone you can trust and trust you

2. A good friend cares about you

3. A good friend sticks with you in good times and bad

4. A good friend accepts you for who you are
Remembered the part the two boys discovered their good friend is learning ballet in "Before I was awesome" last night? They accepted their friend for who he is and affirmed him that they are still his good friends even though he may wear his tutu someday. That's acceptance.

5. A good friend is supportive of you and your goals
If your friends continue to tease you that singing and dancing on stage is sissy, then they are not supportive of your goal to be a singer. A good friend shares your dream and supports you all the way.

6. A good friend is attentive and listening

7. A good friend is fun and interesting

Friends come and go. True friends stay by your side always.

Lots of Hugs and Kisses,
Mum

Mummy sang 天黑黑 accompanied by Abby on piano

Dearest Abby,

So sweet of you to invite Mummy to sing with you while you play the piano last evening. You played so beautifully. It's a pity that Mummy sang wrongly as I wasn't prepared. I'll do better the next time.

Love,
Mummy Dearest

So nice to have a sibling to play with anytime, anywhere

Dearest Ashley & Abby,

Mum & Dad feel very happy when we see you guys play together joyfully. See, wherever you are, your sibling is always with you. You guys had a great time flying kite and playing in the water at Marina Barrage.

Blood is thicker than water. Siblings are the ones who share your childhood memories the most. Love your sibling with all your heart and your sibling will reciprocate your love even more.

Love,

Mum & Dad

Performance at the Heritage Fest Celebration

Dearest Ashley & Abby,

Do you know each time you perform, Mum & Dad are among the first to reach the performance venue? It is a privilege to be selected to perform at the Heritage Fest celebration. We guys did well though you complained the stage was too small. As performers, you need to be adaptable to new stage and environment. Make the best of what is available. How I wish I could dance and master the wushu moves like both of you!

Hugs,

Mum & Dad