Saturday, December 16, 2006
Short reflection!
Finally able to sit down to pen down some thoughts. Nothing too deep and mind blowing , would hurt my brain too much at this point in time, but still it is worth writing it down. Been busy just living life here in WA and observing alot about the way people are living their lives here, how much things have changed, the level of morality here and how we seem to be bombarded with things, things and more things here.
The recent economic boom here in WA has seen the increase in job opportunity, wage rise and also a ridiculous inflation in the property market. It quite scary watching all this as you can almost certainly smell diaster in the air when the bubble burst and the dust settles. Many people here seems not to think twice about spending above and beyond their capabilities.
And walking into the many shops and seeing all the "things" on sale. It is extremely tempting to just spend and buy everything that is shoved into your face. A lot of self control is definitely needed to not covert. This is not only so in the shops , but also when we visit others in their home.
As I thought more about this, I feel that when we settle in Laos and set up our home, we really need to consciously not have so many "luxury" in our house. Only what is basic and needed so that we don't stumble others. The Lord also spoke to me about where my heart was. Being back in this lovely country again, it is always hard not to think about how wonderful it would be to return here to live again. But His words were loud and clear, " Anyone who begins to plow a field but keeps looking back is of no use in the kingdom of God". (Luke 9:62) So I guess that is that then. Hee! No looking back just what is ahead! Very exciting indeed!
The recent economic boom here in WA has seen the increase in job opportunity, wage rise and also a ridiculous inflation in the property market. It quite scary watching all this as you can almost certainly smell diaster in the air when the bubble burst and the dust settles. Many people here seems not to think twice about spending above and beyond their capabilities.
And walking into the many shops and seeing all the "things" on sale. It is extremely tempting to just spend and buy everything that is shoved into your face. A lot of self control is definitely needed to not covert. This is not only so in the shops , but also when we visit others in their home.
As I thought more about this, I feel that when we settle in Laos and set up our home, we really need to consciously not have so many "luxury" in our house. Only what is basic and needed so that we don't stumble others. The Lord also spoke to me about where my heart was. Being back in this lovely country again, it is always hard not to think about how wonderful it would be to return here to live again. But His words were loud and clear, " Anyone who begins to plow a field but keeps looking back is of no use in the kingdom of God". (Luke 9:62) So I guess that is that then. Hee! No looking back just what is ahead! Very exciting indeed!
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Last week we headed off to the bush for short bush walk with the youth from our church...it was very neat. The flies were friendly, the BBQ was hot and the Kookaburra was swooping very low...
This is Sarah's first barbie marshmallow...Oh, the Kookaburra kept swooping onto our food! He actually snatched a sausage out of piece of bread. Not once, not twice but three time!! At one time i was trying to swot him like a fly!!! The Kooka song won't ever be the same for me...'Kooka sits on the old gum tree...merry merry king of the bush is he...' That's simply not true. Sometimes they swoop like starving vultures and snatch sausages...get that into a sweet song!!
Shame and Name....
Shamed of my brother Wayne...he's not choking! Supposed to be chewing actually...
Passing secrets onto the NEXT GENERATION Ps.78:3-4
My mum, sisters and sisters- in-laws organised a big day bake up (my two other sisters aren't in this pic.) There is Juleane on the left and Jude my sister-in-law, married to my brother Wayne, in the middle. The girls wanted to learn from mum just how does she make the 'best fruit mince pie, short bread and fruit cake in Australia land? Hence the need for a baking lesson with all the secrets revealed, documented and tasted. It tookem most of the day and they had a big lunch in the middle. There was lots of talking and laughing. They had a blast. Call it discipling at its best taste! I think there's more Nanna Bakes planned for next year...around EAster.
This year as you gather with your traditions and Christmas flavors, do remember to ‘tell the next generation the pariseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders He has done…’ Ps 78:3-4 And this includes the wonderful flavors and tastes of life, unique to every ethnic group on the map!!!
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Some things we've been eating lately...I caught the fish. No, they're not sword fish! But they are relatives of the 'Marlin' family, which is a huge fish. But these are called 'gardie'. Nice white meat, sweat and soft. My favorite way is to batter with flour and French Onion Soup mix, then lightly pan fry it with some Virgin Olive Oil. It's done when it is a nice light brown...I ate these so can't show you the yummy product...
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
1st week back in Perth!
It's been 7 days since I've been back in Perth and so far I have been down with a chesty cough, running nose, survived a very wonderful and enjoyable family retreat and also a whack on my face. Let's talk about the family retreat first. There was 23 of us in all, ranging from 74 to 6 mths old. The kids far outnumbered the adults. There was lots of food, fun and more fun with swimming, beach, bowling, playground, bbq, video games, etc. All the adults are completely exhausted now and the kids are so wind up that it will most probably take another 3 days for them to settle down to a normal routine again.
Now how did I get that whack in the face?? Very interesting! Ian and I were playing with the kids at the playground. We were having a race to see who could complete the obstacle course first, which included swinging on the flying fox, climbing up the steps and sliding down. this was where moi had a miscalculation. There was this pole across the slide for the kids to hang on to before they slide down. Well, I saw it, grabbed it and in my hurry to slide down, forgot to lower my head. So with full force I swung both arms to push myself down the slide and instead of a smooth ride down, my face went smacked into the pole. My glasses smacked onto my nose. I did not know what hit me but did finish my race though. It was only about 10 minutes later that I realised the damage done. I had a huge bump on my nose and boy did it hurt. Well, it did not look as bad as it felt. I said to Ian that at least I did not have to go for plastic surgery to get a nose ridge now. The bump made my nose looked higher than it normally is. Hee! Must always look at the funny side of things.
Got to go now. Kids just come home from fishing trip with Ian. Will put some photos next blog.
Now how did I get that whack in the face?? Very interesting! Ian and I were playing with the kids at the playground. We were having a race to see who could complete the obstacle course first, which included swinging on the flying fox, climbing up the steps and sliding down. this was where moi had a miscalculation. There was this pole across the slide for the kids to hang on to before they slide down. Well, I saw it, grabbed it and in my hurry to slide down, forgot to lower my head. So with full force I swung both arms to push myself down the slide and instead of a smooth ride down, my face went smacked into the pole. My glasses smacked onto my nose. I did not know what hit me but did finish my race though. It was only about 10 minutes later that I realised the damage done. I had a huge bump on my nose and boy did it hurt. Well, it did not look as bad as it felt. I said to Ian that at least I did not have to go for plastic surgery to get a nose ridge now. The bump made my nose looked higher than it normally is. Hee! Must always look at the funny side of things.
Got to go now. Kids just come home from fishing trip with Ian. Will put some photos next blog.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Kensingtom Primary School
and it says 'around the world'...wow! I felt God affirming Kensi kids 'go around the world'!!
A day at My Primary School FETE
Outside Mrs Delica's classroom with my sister Pauline and her son Riley.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
A day at My Primary School FETE
I was one of the first wandering around at my primary school (Kensington Primary) grounds on its 80th year Bday bash! Good ‘kiasuism’ I'd say…They called it a ‘Birthday FETE’.
Fête is a French word meaning festival or holiday, which has passed into English as a label that may be given to certain events. It is widely used in England in the context of "a village fête". Fêtes are usually outdoor shows with a variety of activities, and are organised by an ad-hoc committee of volunteers. There weren’t too many adhoc volunteers on this FETE.
It seemed as though my entire school was occupied by something to eat, do or see! The grounds and atmosphere were a cross between a carnival, a National DAy Parade and a puasa-mulum
(? How to spell)
The pickles and the jams were in abundance and nicely tucked under one roof; the fairy floss was spinning over time; the ice-cream tap was hot…there were medics walking around slopping on sunscreen on the fairer complexion people. Hotdogs with onions was the lunch of the day.
The sport ovals were full of fun. There was a space simulator, a bouncy castle and a HUGE SLIDE>>>>that would have made Tom Cruse think the aliens have slid down to earth. To my surprise, Sarah enjoyed the junior Ferris wheel the most.
There were spunky dance performances happening in the amphitheatre for the young and koppi C with real Aussie carrot cake for those on the quality side of 40. I heard that the committee for this fete had been working on this project for the entire year. It had the ogranisation and precision that would make Singapore’s NDP committee proud! <BR>
While this was all good stuff, my favorite space was the picture room. The class room was decked out with pictures of students dating back to 1926! For anyone not in the know, my year was 1970-76. (You know, there was saturday's dose of Molly Meldrum on Count Down and bands like, 'Duran Duran', 'Bay City Rollers' {they had awesome socks} KIZZ and MeatLoaf '. They were all hard at it. Sting was leading the Police andI never did find out who "Roxanne" was ?). Anyway, what matters is that I found all the Dierden family in various poses and my classmates. My eyes also ran over the guys I had biffs with and there was a quick glance over some old heart throbs- shucks.
I was hovering around this room for ages. I was hoping I'd see familiar faces. But then I realised that I probably didn’t look the same as I did in 70 and neither did they- sigh. So I started to do some mental ‘make overs’. I ignored the big bellies and double chins. Then I’d ignored the balding, the hair colour and the kids. I found that the nose and the eyes were most helpful to identify people. But as the nose is the only part of your body which keeps growing all your life, I just honed in on the eyes.
I did manage to spot a few more friends by doing my mental make over. But sadly, I didn’t meet anybody from my class! My hope was to meet at least one. Unless my new technique was failing me badly, I suppose I’m the only nostalgic one still living around Kensington.
By 4pm the sun was sinking and I could feel the sting of sunburn coming out on my arms. Sarah was also tired. She told me its ok, she just needed more sugar. We decided to call it a day and walk home. I promised her we’d go home and play marbles like I did in the old days. I walked my ‘usual’ route. It was a thrill to walk hand in hand with Sarah and laugh about what I did and didn’t do. We passed Rod Walker’s home and the Dickerson brother’s place.
I remembered the spot where I had my first fight with Milan. His younger brother Nick threw a stone at my younger brother Wayne. The pride kicked in and we put down our bags and put up our doogs.
We threw wild punches from a distance so we’d look tough but wouldn't hurt each other. It was like a good Honkie movie. But then Milan let one fly into my guts and the abs folded (My six pack developed much later). I dropped to my knees and he jumped with joy at the thought of the victory. It was the talk of my class the next day…sigh. I told the story to Sarah. She told me off for fighting!
All in all Father and daughter had a super day. Sarah was particularly happy with her new teddy bear (Caroline) that she had brought for 50c at the fete. Although I didn’t see any of my class mates, I still had a blast from the past.
I consoled myself that I still have some time to track down one or two buddies before I leave Oz again. I think I’ll start with ‘GG’ (Greg Galvin) and then see if I can find ‘Drum’ (Ian Drummond-Hay)
Thank-you Lord for friends, past, present and future…
Why GOD Gave Us FriendsGOD knew that everyone needsCompanionship and cheer,He knew that people need someoneWhose thoughts are always near.He knew they need someone kindTo lend a helping hand.Someone to gladly take the timeTo care and understand.GOD knew that we all need someoneTo share each happy day,To be a source of courageWhen troubles come our way.Someone to be true to us, Whether near or far apart.Someone whose love we'll alwaysHold and treasure in our hearts.That's Why GOD Gave Us Friends! (Anon)
Ian
Fête is a French word meaning festival or holiday, which has passed into English as a label that may be given to certain events. It is widely used in England in the context of "a village fête". Fêtes are usually outdoor shows with a variety of activities, and are organised by an ad-hoc committee of volunteers. There weren’t too many adhoc volunteers on this FETE.
It seemed as though my entire school was occupied by something to eat, do or see! The grounds and atmosphere were a cross between a carnival, a National DAy Parade and a puasa-mulum
(? How to spell)
The pickles and the jams were in abundance and nicely tucked under one roof; the fairy floss was spinning over time; the ice-cream tap was hot…there were medics walking around slopping on sunscreen on the fairer complexion people. Hotdogs with onions was the lunch of the day.
The sport ovals were full of fun. There was a space simulator, a bouncy castle and a HUGE SLIDE>>>>that would have made Tom Cruse think the aliens have slid down to earth. To my surprise, Sarah enjoyed the junior Ferris wheel the most.
There were spunky dance performances happening in the amphitheatre for the young and koppi C with real Aussie carrot cake for those on the quality side of 40. I heard that the committee for this fete had been working on this project for the entire year. It had the ogranisation and precision that would make Singapore’s NDP committee proud! <BR>
While this was all good stuff, my favorite space was the picture room. The class room was decked out with pictures of students dating back to 1926! For anyone not in the know, my year was 1970-76. (You know, there was saturday's dose of Molly Meldrum on Count Down and bands like, 'Duran Duran', 'Bay City Rollers' {they had awesome socks} KIZZ and MeatLoaf '. They were all hard at it. Sting was leading the Police andI never did find out who "Roxanne" was ?). Anyway, what matters is that I found all the Dierden family in various poses and my classmates. My eyes also ran over the guys I had biffs with and there was a quick glance over some old heart throbs- shucks.
I was hovering around this room for ages. I was hoping I'd see familiar faces. But then I realised that I probably didn’t look the same as I did in 70 and neither did they- sigh. So I started to do some mental ‘make overs’. I ignored the big bellies and double chins. Then I’d ignored the balding, the hair colour and the kids. I found that the nose and the eyes were most helpful to identify people. But as the nose is the only part of your body which keeps growing all your life, I just honed in on the eyes.
I did manage to spot a few more friends by doing my mental make over. But sadly, I didn’t meet anybody from my class! My hope was to meet at least one. Unless my new technique was failing me badly, I suppose I’m the only nostalgic one still living around Kensington.
By 4pm the sun was sinking and I could feel the sting of sunburn coming out on my arms. Sarah was also tired. She told me its ok, she just needed more sugar. We decided to call it a day and walk home. I promised her we’d go home and play marbles like I did in the old days. I walked my ‘usual’ route. It was a thrill to walk hand in hand with Sarah and laugh about what I did and didn’t do. We passed Rod Walker’s home and the Dickerson brother’s place.
I remembered the spot where I had my first fight with Milan. His younger brother Nick threw a stone at my younger brother Wayne. The pride kicked in and we put down our bags and put up our doogs.
We threw wild punches from a distance so we’d look tough but wouldn't hurt each other. It was like a good Honkie movie. But then Milan let one fly into my guts and the abs folded (My six pack developed much later). I dropped to my knees and he jumped with joy at the thought of the victory. It was the talk of my class the next day…sigh. I told the story to Sarah. She told me off for fighting!
All in all Father and daughter had a super day. Sarah was particularly happy with her new teddy bear (Caroline) that she had brought for 50c at the fete. Although I didn’t see any of my class mates, I still had a blast from the past.
I consoled myself that I still have some time to track down one or two buddies before I leave Oz again. I think I’ll start with ‘GG’ (Greg Galvin) and then see if I can find ‘Drum’ (Ian Drummond-Hay)
Thank-you Lord for friends, past, present and future…
Why GOD Gave Us FriendsGOD knew that everyone needsCompanionship and cheer,He knew that people need someoneWhose thoughts are always near.He knew they need someone kindTo lend a helping hand.Someone to gladly take the timeTo care and understand.GOD knew that we all need someoneTo share each happy day,To be a source of courageWhen troubles come our way.Someone to be true to us, Whether near or far apart.Someone whose love we'll alwaysHold and treasure in our hearts.That's Why GOD Gave Us Friends! (Anon)
Ian
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Procrastination!!
Feeling a little sad today. I have learnt a very important lesson on not listening to the the spirit's promtping and giving in to procrastination.
I have or rather had a elderly man who lives with his family about 2 apartment from us. We have known him for 5 years now. Very kind and friendly man. He and his family are very easy to get along with. Well, about Jan this year I started to notice that he was losing alot of weight, very fast. He was in and out of the hospital for quite a while but the doctors could not find out what was the problem. So he was discharged and went back to work. All seemed well for a while. But just a month ago, his wife told me that he has been diagnosed with stomach cancer and is going through chemo. In my heart, I told myself that I have to go visit him soon. And I even told Ian to go visit him before he left for Perth. That did not work out as things just got too hectic in the end. So after Ian left, I was determined to visit him before I left for Perth. I sensed that he might not make it till we return.
The last 3 days I had been having this strong sense that I need to go see him soon. But as I have been so busy with other things, I just kept pushing it back hoping to catch him maybe the day before I leave. Well, when the kids and I returned from the office yesterday afternoon. I met him at the lift lobby. The sad thing is that he was already dead. My only consolation is that I will meet him again one day. And this was only a decision he had made just 3 days ago.
I think this is a lesson I will never forget. And like Seth always says to me, "Put first thing first". I must learn not to be so task oriented and be more willing to let life's little interruption be a natural course of my life. Sigh! A big price to pay for this lesson.
I have or rather had a elderly man who lives with his family about 2 apartment from us. We have known him for 5 years now. Very kind and friendly man. He and his family are very easy to get along with. Well, about Jan this year I started to notice that he was losing alot of weight, very fast. He was in and out of the hospital for quite a while but the doctors could not find out what was the problem. So he was discharged and went back to work. All seemed well for a while. But just a month ago, his wife told me that he has been diagnosed with stomach cancer and is going through chemo. In my heart, I told myself that I have to go visit him soon. And I even told Ian to go visit him before he left for Perth. That did not work out as things just got too hectic in the end. So after Ian left, I was determined to visit him before I left for Perth. I sensed that he might not make it till we return.
The last 3 days I had been having this strong sense that I need to go see him soon. But as I have been so busy with other things, I just kept pushing it back hoping to catch him maybe the day before I leave. Well, when the kids and I returned from the office yesterday afternoon. I met him at the lift lobby. The sad thing is that he was already dead. My only consolation is that I will meet him again one day. And this was only a decision he had made just 3 days ago.
I think this is a lesson I will never forget. And like Seth always says to me, "Put first thing first". I must learn not to be so task oriented and be more willing to let life's little interruption be a natural course of my life. Sigh! A big price to pay for this lesson.
Singapore blogger here!
Life is definitely not slowing down for us Dierdens in Singapore. Have not stopped for the last week and a half. Both Seth and Belle has kissed their beds goodbye. Been piging out on take aways. Nothing left in the fridge or cupboard to cook. Not that I am complaining of cos. Hee!
Belle was down with a strange virus the last week which left her precious little body covered with some horrible looking rashes. It got so bad on Sunday that I got on the phone to recruit prayer warriors. And praise God it cleared the very next day. So thanks to all you warriors out there.
My calendar is already full to the brim and we are still receiving invites to meet. Enjoying the time with people , but finding it quite tiring. Been hooked on to sudoku lately. need something to take my mind off all the packing and shifting. Got to go now. Kids are missing in the church office at the moment. Hee!
Belle was down with a strange virus the last week which left her precious little body covered with some horrible looking rashes. It got so bad on Sunday that I got on the phone to recruit prayer warriors. And praise God it cleared the very next day. So thanks to all you warriors out there.
My calendar is already full to the brim and we are still receiving invites to meet. Enjoying the time with people , but finding it quite tiring. Been hooked on to sudoku lately. need something to take my mind off all the packing and shifting. Got to go now. Kids are missing in the church office at the moment. Hee!
Sunday, October 29, 2006
G’day friends!
You can take the Aussie out of Singapore, but you can take the friendships out of the Aussie. The only thing to do is to invite you all to my place for coffee and ANZAC cookies. So consider yourself invited.
The ten most enjoyable things I’ve been doing (they are not in rank of priority):
Breathing ‘haze’ free air all day
Walking in familiar parks close to my family home
Cuddles from my mum, sisters and brother
Eating Sausage rolls, pies and vanilla slices
Listening to the various sounds of familiar birds early in the morning
- kookaburra;
- magpie;
- dove; crow
- and various cockatoos
Long chats with Sarah and time to help her with P4 maths
Long devotions in the morning
Driving on quiet roads
living on the ground floor with a back yard
visiting the homes of my siblings & drinking coffee
Five things I haven’t enjoyed:
1. The ‘slow’ service at Perth airport
2. ‘Chili-less’ food
3. Watching TV with course language & lots of sexual scenes
4. Listening to an ‘old Aussie’ man talk about his ‘farm girl’ wife
in Thailand Nursing a ‘slip disc’ in my back after I shifted too many big boxes in Singapore
Four things I hope to do soon:
1. Go fishing and eat the catch
2. Go surfing and catch a wave
3. Eat Chicken Treat
4. See my family and ‘some’ friends from Singapore
80th Anniversary of my Primary School
This Saturday promises to be a blast from the past!! It just so happens that my primary school is having their 80th anniversary. So cool!!! I’ll get to see all those beautiful and ‘not so beautiful’ teachers- at least the ones that haven’t kicked the bucket.
There was Mr Baynes!! He trusted me with leading the cricket team the morning his wife gave birth….and then there was Mr Mar, he was my English teacher. I don’t blame him for my bad spelling. He had a piano in the class room and would begin to play it when we’re climbing up the walls. He was rather ‘early in the ‘music therapy’ scene. Strange, but he’d relax with two or three cigs at the back of the class room. He’d send the class prefect out to buy his smokes too!!!
Then there was Miss Delica my grade 1 teacher. She destroyed any ‘interest’ I my had for maths. I never any ‘natural talent’ and she let me know with screams and humiliation techniques. She told me I was ‘useless’ and poked me on the head with her chalk. I often thought of sticking the chalk up her rather large nostrils. Unfortunately, that goal turned into just more ‘daydreaming’ and my grades slide further south.
This Saturday I may get to see my first five best friends!!!
Ian Drummond-Hay- (India) who taught me how to eat mangoes, chili and ‘appreciate’ Deep Purple in my teen years
Marie Fijac-(Mauritian) she taught me how to eat curry and speak some ‘Creole’ (Mauritius is off the coast of Africa and they speak a form of French)
Toi (Japanese) she was just the sweetest and prettiest girl in class
Chang Hing Wing (Malaysian Chinese) He taught me how to each ‘chicken wings’ and we played ‘Combat’ around his home. His mum was a potter…I can still remember the very different sights, sounds and smells I encountered as I played in his home.
Greg Galvin (Aussie). Greg was my fishing ‘Kaki’. We loved to eat vanilla slices and pies. He was 6 foot by the time we hit secondary school. He’d always win the high jump. I’d always come second.
So I’m quite excited…I’ll be going with Sarah and my bro and sisters and all their kids. Pray that Mrs Delica is there so I can get rid of all that ‘zidanity’ in me. If not I think I’ll just have to pray and trust that when I see her ‘in heaven’ I’ll give her a big hug and not a big head butt!
With love from Ian and Sarah ‘The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I will have a delightful inheritance’. Ps.16:6
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Friday, October 27, 2006
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Singapore Blogger!
As you can all see, my other half is also busy blogging over inPerth. As for us over here in S'pore, we have been left with no camera, so pic for now. Guess I will just have to rely on my creative side to describe our remaining life here in S'pore .
So far so good! Can finally say that the chaos is almost over. Cupboards are empty, fridge is almost empty, all curtains washed, sheets washed, boxes packed, sealed and ready to be sent off. Poor Belle! She had to say goodbye to her precious cot on Sat. How sad! This is the last of her worldly possesion that she witness taken from her. She is now reduced to sleeping on her cot matteress on the bedroom floor. I promised her that she will be rewarded with a "big" bed (like Sarah's and Seth's) when we get to Laos. So she is clinging on to that promise. Sigh! She also has no toys to play with either, as all that has been packed away in the boxes as well. Can you imagine how miserable she is right now??? Took her and Seth to Toys R'Us yesterday and she had a ball playing with all the baby dolls on the rack. At first she was all fascinated by the barbie section, which she calls "furby". But then she caught sight of the baby doll section and got stuck there. She took down some of the life size babies and just planted her little bottom on the floor and had a great time playing by herself. I was so tempted to buy her one of them, but thought maybe it would be nicer for her to receive it as a present for x'mas. As her mum, my heart has really been shredded up a little lately seeing how this 'big' move has been affecting her.
As for Seth, he is older and more able to grasp the reality of it all. Still he was quite distraught to know that we will also be giving his bunk bed away next week. Last night our friends ask if they could have the second room empty so that they could use more of the space. As you all know how "spacious" our apartment is, where else could we store the bunk??? So it will have to go. And amazingly, my big bro asked if he could have it earlier during the day. So I guess it won't go to waste after all.
It does feel funny though. Watching the house being emptied out while we are still "living" in it. Sad but somehow feel "lightened" in the heart. Like we are not so cluttered with worldly things anymore. Must enjoy this feeling while it last. I know it won't be long before we will have to surround ourselves with such "necessities" again.
So far so good! Can finally say that the chaos is almost over. Cupboards are empty, fridge is almost empty, all curtains washed, sheets washed, boxes packed, sealed and ready to be sent off. Poor Belle! She had to say goodbye to her precious cot on Sat. How sad! This is the last of her worldly possesion that she witness taken from her. She is now reduced to sleeping on her cot matteress on the bedroom floor. I promised her that she will be rewarded with a "big" bed (like Sarah's and Seth's) when we get to Laos. So she is clinging on to that promise. Sigh! She also has no toys to play with either, as all that has been packed away in the boxes as well. Can you imagine how miserable she is right now??? Took her and Seth to Toys R'Us yesterday and she had a ball playing with all the baby dolls on the rack. At first she was all fascinated by the barbie section, which she calls "furby". But then she caught sight of the baby doll section and got stuck there. She took down some of the life size babies and just planted her little bottom on the floor and had a great time playing by herself. I was so tempted to buy her one of them, but thought maybe it would be nicer for her to receive it as a present for x'mas. As her mum, my heart has really been shredded up a little lately seeing how this 'big' move has been affecting her.
As for Seth, he is older and more able to grasp the reality of it all. Still he was quite distraught to know that we will also be giving his bunk bed away next week. Last night our friends ask if they could have the second room empty so that they could use more of the space. As you all know how "spacious" our apartment is, where else could we store the bunk??? So it will have to go. And amazingly, my big bro asked if he could have it earlier during the day. So I guess it won't go to waste after all.
It does feel funny though. Watching the house being emptied out while we are still "living" in it. Sad but somehow feel "lightened" in the heart. Like we are not so cluttered with worldly things anymore. Must enjoy this feeling while it last. I know it won't be long before we will have to surround ourselves with such "necessities" again.
Singapore Blogger!
As you can all see, my other half is also busy blogging over inPerth. As for us over here in S'pore, we have been left with no camera, so pic for now. Guess I will just have to rely on my creative side to describe our remaining life here in S'pore .
So far so good! Can finally say that the chaos is almost over. Cupboards are empty, fridge is almost empty, all curtains washed, sheets washed, boxes packed, sealed and ready to be sent off. Poor Belle! She had to say goodbye to her precious cot on Sat. How sad! This is the last of her worldly possesion that she witness taken from her. She is now reduced to sleeping on her cot matteress on the bedroom floor. I promised her that she will be rewarded with a "big" bed (like Sarah's and Seth's) when we get to Laos. So she is clinging on to that promise. Sigh! She also has no toys to play with either, as all that has been packed away in the boxes as well. Can you imagine how miserable she is right now??? Took her and Seth to Toys R'Us yesterday and she had a ball playing with all the baby dolls on the rack. At first she was all fascinated by the barbie section, which she calls "furby". But then she caught sight of the baby doll section and got stuck there. She took down some of the life size babies and just planted her little bottom on the floor and had a great time playing by herself. I was so tempted to buy her one of them, but thought maybe it would be nicer for her to receive it as a present for x'mas. As her mum, my heart has really been shredded up a little lately seeing how this 'big' move has been affecting her.
As for Seth, he is older and more able to grasp the reality of it all. Still he was quite distraught to know that we will also be giving his bunk bed away next week. Last night our friends ask if they could have the second room empty so that they could use more of the space. As you all know how "spacious" our apartment is, where else could we store the bunk??? So it will have to go. And amazingly, my big bro asked if he could have it earlier during the day. So I guess it won't go to waste after all.
It does feel funny though. Watching the house being emptied out while we are still "living" in it. Sad but somehow feel "lightened" in the heart. Like we are not so cluttered with worldly things anymore. Must enjoy this feeling while it last. I know it won't be long before we will have to surround ourselves with such "necessities" again.
So far so good! Can finally say that the chaos is almost over. Cupboards are empty, fridge is almost empty, all curtains washed, sheets washed, boxes packed, sealed and ready to be sent off. Poor Belle! She had to say goodbye to her precious cot on Sat. How sad! This is the last of her worldly possesion that she witness taken from her. She is now reduced to sleeping on her cot matteress on the bedroom floor. I promised her that she will be rewarded with a "big" bed (like Sarah's and Seth's) when we get to Laos. So she is clinging on to that promise. Sigh! She also has no toys to play with either, as all that has been packed away in the boxes as well. Can you imagine how miserable she is right now??? Took her and Seth to Toys R'Us yesterday and she had a ball playing with all the baby dolls on the rack. At first she was all fascinated by the barbie section, which she calls "furby". But then she caught sight of the baby doll section and got stuck there. She took down some of the life size babies and just planted her little bottom on the floor and had a great time playing by herself. I was so tempted to buy her one of them, but thought maybe it would be nicer for her to receive it as a present for x'mas. As her mum, my heart has really been shredded up a little lately seeing how this 'big' move has been affecting her.
As for Seth, he is older and more able to grasp the reality of it all. Still he was quite distraught to know that we will also be giving his bunk bed away next week. Last night our friends ask if they could have the second room empty so that they could use more of the space. As you all know how "spacious" our apartment is, where else could we store the bunk??? So it will have to go. And amazingly, my big bro asked if he could have it earlier during the day. So I guess it won't go to waste after all.
It does feel funny though. Watching the house being emptied out while we are still "living" in it. Sad but somehow feel "lightened" in the heart. Like we are not so cluttered with worldly things anymore. Must enjoy this feeling while it last. I know it won't be long before we will have to surround ourselves with such "necessities" again.
Saturday, October 21, 2006
And when you come down you get the full Perth to Albany tour guide....this includes a blow by blow history commentary up and down the coast. You find out the best surf spots, fishing spots and hiding spots incase of a neuclear war. This educational trip is registered with CCA points Singappore, so no worries, just come on down.
Friday, October 20, 2006
Almost finish!!!
We are almost there guys! So far all our worldly possessions are contained in 19 (double A4 size) boxes. Not bad for a family of 5 yeah??? My best friend for the last month has been our ever "hungry" DUSTBIN. Of cos' not everything got thrown into it's wide open mouth. Seth and Belle has been visiting Mr Recycling Bin on a very regular basis. We have also given much stuff to friends and neighbours. Just can't believe how much "THINGS" we are able to store in such a some space.
Seth just celebrated his 7th b'day by having a pool side party. He had a great time with his best friend, Surajeet. I don't have the camera with me now so can't download any of the pic yet. Ian has got it with him in Perth. Oh that's right. Ian and Sarah are both in Perth right now. They flew off yesterday morning and Ian is now enjoying the fresh air in Aus, away from the terrible haze here in S'pore.
Belle is cool about them not being around as she still has mum and bro to hang out with. She is so amazing. She seems to comprehend that we are packing up to move to a new place. No complains from her when all her toys are packed away in the boxes. She just says "Boxes to Laos??" She will be kissing her cot goodbye tomorrow as well. My cousin's hubby will be picking it up in the morning. Let's see how she copes tomorrow.
My deadline for the completion of all packing is 23rd Oct. That should give me a full 2 weeks to meet people and just chill.... That's the plan anyway. We will see. Always good to have a plan. Pris, we will be back in S'pore on 2nd Jan and leaving for Laos on 14th Jan. Are you serious about coming back ??? Maybe save up to visit us in Laos would be better. Hee!!
Ok! got to go now. Life goes on in this household!
Seth just celebrated his 7th b'day by having a pool side party. He had a great time with his best friend, Surajeet. I don't have the camera with me now so can't download any of the pic yet. Ian has got it with him in Perth. Oh that's right. Ian and Sarah are both in Perth right now. They flew off yesterday morning and Ian is now enjoying the fresh air in Aus, away from the terrible haze here in S'pore.
Belle is cool about them not being around as she still has mum and bro to hang out with. She is so amazing. She seems to comprehend that we are packing up to move to a new place. No complains from her when all her toys are packed away in the boxes. She just says "Boxes to Laos??" She will be kissing her cot goodbye tomorrow as well. My cousin's hubby will be picking it up in the morning. Let's see how she copes tomorrow.
My deadline for the completion of all packing is 23rd Oct. That should give me a full 2 weeks to meet people and just chill.... That's the plan anyway. We will see. Always good to have a plan. Pris, we will be back in S'pore on 2nd Jan and leaving for Laos on 14th Jan. Are you serious about coming back ??? Maybe save up to visit us in Laos would be better. Hee!!
Ok! got to go now. Life goes on in this household!
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Half done!
Quick update! Sarah is in midst of her final year exams now. Please keep her in prayer. We are quite focus on revision now and the we all can't wait till this is all over. Been throwing out more stuff. Found a big box of kid's videos under our bed. About 20 of them. We brought them over from Perth almost 5 years ago and because we never bought a video recorder, they were never taken out of the box. When I opened the box yesterday, they were all mouldy thanks to the lovely humidity in S'pore. So Seth and Belle transported them to their new home - down the rubbish chute. Hee! Got a team going to Laos tomorrow afternoon. They have very kindly agreed to take some boxes in for us. Do pray that the weight of it all will be ok.
Belle just celebrated her 3rd b'day on Friday. Don't have time to download the pic yet. Will do so soon. Got so much on my mind and so much to do now. Feel a panic attack coming soon. Must sit down and get focus again. Need to write it all down and tick off the list. Oh! We did it! Ian and I have finally bought our new computers and all within our budget. Yeah! But we have been too busy to do much with it yet. This is the 1st time that I have actually own my very own computer, and a new one too! Ian said it's like buying a car! Yeah! Kind of feel like that. Reminds me of the time I bought my 1st car when I was a student in Aus. Felt great!
Belle just celebrated her 3rd b'day on Friday. Don't have time to download the pic yet. Will do so soon. Got so much on my mind and so much to do now. Feel a panic attack coming soon. Must sit down and get focus again. Need to write it all down and tick off the list. Oh! We did it! Ian and I have finally bought our new computers and all within our budget. Yeah! But we have been too busy to do much with it yet. This is the 1st time that I have actually own my very own computer, and a new one too! Ian said it's like buying a car! Yeah! Kind of feel like that. Reminds me of the time I bought my 1st car when I was a student in Aus. Felt great!
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Flat out like a lizard in a runway!!
Can't believe it. Just lost an hour worth of tongue flapping on the blog just because I pressed the wrong key on the computer. UGGH! Ok! Let's start all over again. Maybe this time it will be the short and sweet version. Maybe God was trying to censor my previous blog! Hee! Possible.
Sarah has been busy with her goodbyes with her friends. She has been busy attending birthday parties and outings with her friends and thoroughly enjoying herself. guess saying goodbyes is quite fun after all. She is so looking forward to going back to Perth. Last night, we were talking about the parable of the 10 virgins, and how Christ wants us to be ready for His return. Sarah very quickly said that she was certainly not ready yet. At least not till she completes her holiday in Perth. We thought it was so funny. I think it would be great to if it happens soon. It would certainly be easier than having to pack up the house.
Seth and Belle are just going with the flow of things. Think Seth is more upset about giving up some of his toys than saying goodbyes to his buddies. He even dreamt about having to pack in a hurry because an earthquake had struck. He remembered picking up his cricket bat and running for his life. Guess his cricket bat is going to have to board the plane to Laos! Belle is having her 3rd birthday next friday. And we will be buying her this lovely little music box which she has been eyeing for a long time. Each time we go pass this gift shop, she would head straight for this music box with a little ballerina dancing in it. The twinkle in her eyes is enough to melt any parent's heart. so must definitely get it for her.
Ian is busy sorting out his mountain of files and materials at the office. I am flat out clearing and chucking out all the clutters accumulated over the last 5 years. Can't believe we have so much in so small a den. Maybe we should just limit each person to just 1 bag of possession, this would make it much easier to be ever "mobile" and ready to just pack and go.
Just had our family photo taken by a talented brother, Leslie. He did such a wonderful job at it. Will share 1 with you. Enjoy!
Sarah has been busy with her goodbyes with her friends. She has been busy attending birthday parties and outings with her friends and thoroughly enjoying herself. guess saying goodbyes is quite fun after all. She is so looking forward to going back to Perth. Last night, we were talking about the parable of the 10 virgins, and how Christ wants us to be ready for His return. Sarah very quickly said that she was certainly not ready yet. At least not till she completes her holiday in Perth. We thought it was so funny. I think it would be great to if it happens soon. It would certainly be easier than having to pack up the house.
Seth and Belle are just going with the flow of things. Think Seth is more upset about giving up some of his toys than saying goodbyes to his buddies. He even dreamt about having to pack in a hurry because an earthquake had struck. He remembered picking up his cricket bat and running for his life. Guess his cricket bat is going to have to board the plane to Laos! Belle is having her 3rd birthday next friday. And we will be buying her this lovely little music box which she has been eyeing for a long time. Each time we go pass this gift shop, she would head straight for this music box with a little ballerina dancing in it. The twinkle in her eyes is enough to melt any parent's heart. so must definitely get it for her.
Ian is busy sorting out his mountain of files and materials at the office. I am flat out clearing and chucking out all the clutters accumulated over the last 5 years. Can't believe we have so much in so small a den. Maybe we should just limit each person to just 1 bag of possession, this would make it much easier to be ever "mobile" and ready to just pack and go.
Just had our family photo taken by a talented brother, Leslie. He did such a wonderful job at it. Will share 1 with you. Enjoy!
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Hooray! TESOL course is over!
Yes! Ian is on his last exam today! 4 weeks of churning out out essays after essays and test after test. We are all ready for this big day! Our next task to be ticked off the list will be the packing up our things, ready for our evacuation. Ian and Sarah will board the first flight out of here on the 19th of Nov. I will remain behind with the other 2 comrades to clean up the remaining mess before taking flight on the 7th of Nov. Upon arrival in Aussie soil, the first thing I'd like to do is jump into the car and go for a drive along the river. So miss chilling out in Aussie land.
On the home front, Shanae and myself have been down with a cough for the last 4 days. It has really put us out of action for a bit. I've not been able to do my boxing exercises for 3 days now. Think I'm getting withdrawal syndrome already. Kept waking up at 4.30am to get kicking. But my aching body and stuffy head ( from the cough) kept me paralysed in bed. Guess it's a wise decision not to push my body too hard. Am feeling 100% better after the much needed rest and I think I'm ready to start my regime again of 4.30am start - exercising the body and than the soul with my quiet time after.
Guess the past 5 weeks have been really hectic for me, without me realising it. 3 birthdays in the family, 2 birthday parties to organise, lots of cooking, packing, planning, organising our flights, working on the blog , sigh! The list can just keep going on. In short, I think I'm really to chill out a bit soon. In about 8 weeks to be exact. Ok ! That's it for now. My other duties beckons. She is gorging herself on a healthy bowl of cereal at the moment. Sitting down right in the middle of the church office floor. What would people be thinking of her mother?? Sigh!
On the home front, Shanae and myself have been down with a cough for the last 4 days. It has really put us out of action for a bit. I've not been able to do my boxing exercises for 3 days now. Think I'm getting withdrawal syndrome already. Kept waking up at 4.30am to get kicking. But my aching body and stuffy head ( from the cough) kept me paralysed in bed. Guess it's a wise decision not to push my body too hard. Am feeling 100% better after the much needed rest and I think I'm ready to start my regime again of 4.30am start - exercising the body and than the soul with my quiet time after.
Guess the past 5 weeks have been really hectic for me, without me realising it. 3 birthdays in the family, 2 birthday parties to organise, lots of cooking, packing, planning, organising our flights, working on the blog , sigh! The list can just keep going on. In short, I think I'm really to chill out a bit soon. In about 8 weeks to be exact. Ok ! That's it for now. My other duties beckons. She is gorging herself on a healthy bowl of cereal at the moment. Sitting down right in the middle of the church office floor. What would people be thinking of her mother?? Sigh!
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Too cute to resist!!!
Just took this picture 2 days ago! Shanae had just had her shower and decided that she would like to wear a turban, like mum and big sis after we had washed our hair. Than I suggested to take a picture of her, cos' she looked so irresistibly cute. (not that I'm bias! Hee!) Little missy than proceeded to pose for the camera. Guess she does love her picture taken.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Photos from the big b'day party!
Sarah invited her class teacher, Mrs Chan, to her party. She also taught my friend, Eileen, (the lady with long hair) and myself when we were in the school almost 28 years ago. Teaching must be very good for her cause she has not aged very much. Eileen and I had a wonderful time catching up with her.
The beautiful people!
Surprise visit from Gong Gong!
Surprise visit from Grandma!
Sarah had a tough time blowing out the "magic" candles that mum had playfully put on the cake. In the end, she recruited the help of all the girls to blow them out. Of cos', by the time that was over, the cake was well coated with a new ingredient not in the original recipe! Hee! But it was a good laugh!
To make the piniata game more interesting, Ian had the kids wait at the bottom and poured out all the lollies over the balcony to those outstretched arms. The kids had a ball!
Piniata! Grand finale! Definitely recommended for any party!
Warm welcome to our illustionist - Ian and his assistant, Seth Dierden!! 
One of the games played at the party that required the gals to display great team work spirit. And indeed they did rise to the occassion, all of them. Well done gals!
More unhealthy finger licking food from the Dierden kitchen.. Ian has suggested that for the next party, I should provide some healthy option for the little guests. Good idea!
Home made very sinfully rich cheese cake as requested by the birthday girl! Sarah polished off the last crumb over the next 2 days. Yummy!
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