The Boys and I

Thanks Ivan !

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 15:31:00 +0000

How many of you have someone telling you this :

"When you feel unhappy, you must think of us. Look at our pictures, think of your family. We love you."

Ivan said that to me. Left me speechless and feeling deeply touched. I could only hug him tightly and do as what he says whenever I'm down. Think of my sweet family. sniff sniff

X-File

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 15:17:00 +0000

X-file details :
There were incidences of water pressure runs low in the house and at certain part of the house where water source comes in direct from main pipe, we don't get any water supply at all. In short, we have experienced many times of water shortage at home. We blamed it on unplanned water maintenance works, low water pressure at our area and also on dirty outdoor water filter (it could be so clogged up till little water flows into the house)

You may asked whether we have checked with our neighbours. We did. We checked with the neighbour on the left hand side. They have water pump installed and advised us to do the same. I don't remember whether we have checked with other neighbours, but don't think we did. It was small matter, even though annoying.

The Notion :
Jef had a notion that this could be due to the main water tap's valve. It could be shut-off by some itchy hands passer-bys. He went out to check out and his notion was right. It was shut-off. Cursing under his breath, he turned it back on and we thought that the problem's solved.

Then something happened and we thought we found the root cause. The main tap's valve was faulty. Plumber was called in and problem resolved (or so we thought again).

The culprit :
Yeah, what happened? We came back from dinner that fateful night and we saw something really disturbing and puzzling. A large dark figure stood near our main water tap and immediately, Jef got down from the car and confronted him. He was caught red handed. Our the-other-side's neighbour was caught red handed with blushing cheeks !

Jef : What are you doing? That's mine (he was referring to the main tap)

Neighbour : No, it's mine.

Jef pointed at the other main tap : Yours is over there.

Neighbour : Oooohh .. I thought this is mine.

Water runs down and rocks surfaced up. (hahah ... a direct transalation from Cantonese saying that simply means 'The Truth')
Mr Neighbour has been turning off our main tap valve each time when he's away from home, thinking that it's his. Probably preventing the rats from taking shower while he is gone. The problem is, our main water tap is very near to our house and if that's really his, so, he has not wondered where's ours. Besides, we changed the main water tap's valve once (it was faulty) and hasn't he wondered why it's different now? *palm smack face*

What can I say? I have one interesting blur like sotong neighbour.

Common-ness

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 17:37:00 +0000

God of Warrior, Guan Yu

Shin Chan

God of Warrior and Shin Chan. What do we have in common? Hmm, we all have a pair of really really dark and thick brows.

*giggle* yes, I had my brows done up. Thanks to bluunis, I look like Guan Yu whenever I'm angry and I look like Shin Chan when I'm being silly. This is just so awesome.

Contented

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 17:13:00 +0000

I lose my cool with Ivan yesterday night. With a cane in my hand and top with a crazy mad woman look, I went after him to give him a good spanking. Over what? Over a lesson called 'Contentment'

I have come across some little children, be it someone you know or some strangers. They come to you and asked for the little toy you are holding or the sweet in your hand. Well, not that I'm stingy and wouldn't share but it's just something which I wouldn't want my boys to be doing. They should learn to be contented and not to ask around for stuffs. I wouldn't like my boys to stare at other children with lollies or ice-creams and I wouldn't want my boys to ask me for something; just because their friends have it and they want to have it too.

There are too much of toys at home, too much of stickers and too much of everything else. The boys need to be contented.

So, it happened to Ivan.

It took place in school. One of his friends brought the new twist-it-out colour pencils to school and he gave Ivan 4 colours. I have seen this in the bookshop and infact, I did ask Ivan whether he would like to have a box. He chose the crayons instead.

So, he brought home the 4 sticks of colours, a token from his friend. I gave him a good pep talk and convinced him to return the colours to his friend the next day. The next day came and the colours are still in his bag. His reason? He forgot. When I checked through the bag, to my horror, it was only 3 sticks instead of 4. Ivan explained that he gave the other one to another friend. I swear that Ivan could see my hair standing high up and my eyes were flaming red with fire at that time. Not only he took something from his friend, he even gave one away to another friend. Hey ! That's so not right !

And it was one of Ivan's darkest night. I whacked him and left a few lines on his legs and arms. While he was still sobbing, I explained to him why I was so mad with him.

Seriously, I'm always saying this. It's really easy to well, *ahem* make babies, not too difficult to carry them in the tummy for 40 weeks and also, not that painful to deliver them (I survived without epidural !). But, trust me, educating them is the toughest. Educating them to mold them into someone who would love their life, enjoy every bit of it and with a good heart. I would hope that someday, my boys would grow up and be contented with their life. Because, when you are not contented, you will never find happiness.

Ivan's First

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 16:13:00 +0000

"Mom, I'm going to tell you something but don't tell Daddy, ok?"

"Okay ... what's that?"

"JiaHui asked to be my coco (brother). She wants to marry me"

Puzzled??

"Wait a minute. JiaHui is a boy or a girl?"

"It's a girl !!!!"

"Okaaaaayyyy .... if she's a girl, why would she wants to be your coco? And she wants to marry you?"

"Yahh !!!! She wants to marry me when I'm big ! She says I'm handsome"

ROFL !!!!!!!!!!!! This is too funny, what till I tell Jef. Opppss, I'm not supposed to tell??? Oh dear, so difficult to keep a juicy secret like this. So, eventually I told. I warned Jef not to laugh at him and try to take him seriously. :P

So, who's this little daughter in law of mine? Lol

Extroverts

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 15:35:00 +0000

My mom's such an extrovert.

Brought my mom to the hospital a couple of weeks ago as she was unwell. A Chinese nurse attended to my mom and during the 20 mins procedural tests and checks, the nurse is already an old family friend.

The conversation below is in Mandarin. Translated to English for convenience sake
"My son-in-law is not free. I called him just now but he was in a meeting."

"Both he and my youngest daughter are very busy but my son-in-law contacted my youngest daughter because he was worried about me."

"There, the one sitting outside is my youngest daughter. She works in a new company now, cannot take leave. I help her take care of her boys. My grandson is unwell, cough. Must be the weather."

"I also cough. *sigh*, old people like that one lor"

"Just last few weeks ago, my eldest daughter brought me to Cheras for checkup. Check blood, check urine. But, no report yet."

"My eldest daughter works in bank. The doctors in Cheras hospital is also quite good. But very far. Don't want to trouble her. She's also very busy working"

"I have sons too. Also very busy. Sometimes, old people shouldn't trouble them. They have their own life"

blah blah blah blah ..

So, in just a short 20 minutes time, the nurse became an old family friend. She can already draw the family tree out of the conversation she had with my mom.During my schooling days, I had to think twice about bringing friends back home. Else, my deepest darkest secrets would then be openly brought up as topic-of-the-day.

But this is not the worst thing. One thing is for sure. An extrovert who blogs is 100 times more dangerous than one who doesn't. Look at what I have done ! I retold the story to be read by so many others ! *wicked grin*

I'm such an extrovert.

Ciggy vs Dinner

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 12:44:00 +0000

Left my cash in the shorts I wore during the weekends and I went to work with minimal cash in purse. So I thought that I could still withdraw some cash from the ATM machine until I realised that the ATM card is in the same pocket.

This happens to me quite regularly, especially on Mondays. I have only approximately RM30 in my purse at work. Spent RM20 during lunch and I'm left with RM12. Jef called me on my way home and he asked me to help him pack some dinner back. A simple hawker's dinner meal's still within my limited budget and I agreed to help. A couple of minutes later, he called back and asked help to get ciggies for him. Oh no, ciggies + dinner = more than RM12. So, I gave him the ultimate decision to make. Ciggy or Dinner. He could only choose one. He thought about it for 3 seconds and he chose ... (I'm sure it wouldn't take a 3 years old to figure this out)

It's really not easy being a wife these days. If there's a wife advert, you will probably find one main requirement which is - Ability to play multiple roles.

Don't get the dirty idea. (I know what you are thinking about)

A wife must be a police traffic.
How? She must be able to tell traffic condition at all times.
When? On the way to somewhere, Jef asked, "Do you think it would be jam there later?"

A wife must be a parking attendant
How? She must be able to tell parking conditions anywhere
When? In a shopping mall, Jef asked, "Should I park at valet parking or should I go into parking lots, ah? Do you think there's any spots for me?"

A wife must be a weather woman or even a meteorologist !
How? She must be able to predict the weather
When? Jef would ask whenever he wants to, "Hey, going to rain?"

So, you see. It's really not easy being a wife these days. And how do I fit? Perfectly. For not being able to answer any of his questions and still look knowlegeable. To him, I'm putting on the "My-God,-like-that-also don't-know-ahh-face" and it works like magic all the time.

P/S: Incase you are still wondering, he chose ciggy.

Where Am I? What's Going On?

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 16:30:00 +0000

Ya, where am I? And what's going on?

Well, plenty of events took place in the family and kept me busy. I do have plenty of incidences which I find worth blogging about. But, I don't have the time. I simply don't have the time. I'm moving faster than normal and catching up with the changes in my life. Hopefully, I would be able to share with you on the details soon. :) Thanks for being patient with me.

I'll be back .....

Dignity

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 16:43:00 +0000

What's dignity to a child? How do you explain the term used to describe the innate right to respect and ethical treatment for an individual to a 6 years old? Well, Jeffrey tried. Let's hear it from 'The' Man.

We were in the car, travelling from home to my mom's place. So, on the way there, we talked about PSP. One of the stuffs that could captivate Ivan's big heart. Can't recall how the conversation got started but I do remember Ivan jeering at me saying, "It's OK" when I hinted that I would buy a PSP soon and it will not be Ivan's concern (read : he will not get to touch it).

[Ivan] : It's OKAY .....

[me] : *hugging Jayden* ... I'll buy for you Jay. (My attempt at making Ivan regretting what he said)

[Ivan]: It's OKAY ...... I'm OKAY ...

[me] : *continue hugging Jayden* I'll buy for you okay, baby? No need to wait for you to save up (I'm asking Ivan to save for it)

[Ivan] : Ok la Ok la ... Mummy, I want the PSP. *Ivan sucking up to me*

[me] : HHmmppppPPPPpfffff !

[Jef] : Ivan !!!! You got to have dignity !!!!!

[Ivan] : Nhuh??? What's dignity?

[Jef] : Erm .... It's about your face ... You need to have face. Like mummy was *yak yak yak .. Jef was trying to replay the scenario and to make Ivan understand the price of pride*

[Me] : *still trying hard to instigate Ivan to revolt* I'll buy for JayJay, okay?

[Ivan looking lost. Torn in between Daddy and Mummy]

[Jef] : Remember, face? You MUST have dignity Ivan.

[Ivan]: ..................

That was simply amusing. To see Ivan torn in between us and also his dream (the PSP). At this age, he could still forego his ego and self esteem just for the love of his life. :) Wonders what happens when he's 15 and when he's in his first puppy lurve? Hmmmmm .... wonders wonders. Boys, oh boys.

Bye bye Fevuh !

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 01:42:00 +0000

I dread Fe-vuh ! Especially when it hits on the boys. Sleepless nights, unproductive days at work, poor little boys. Last year, some old folks shared with us the miracle formula to correct the body temperature. But, I heed none of their advices, simply because they couldn't explain the logic behind it. Until one day when a dentist shared it with Jef. Hmm, coming from a dentist sounds more convincing than anyone else. Ya, talk about being biased. I am.

Anyway, here's the miracle formula, shared here only with you and psst, keep it to yourself. Also note that this only works if your child has high fever. (which is 39 degrees and above)

The Dough :

1. Mix an egg white and some flour together. (unrefrigerated egg, please. If taken out from the fridge, soak the egg in a bowl of lukewarm water)

2. You then practice your kneading skill here. Knead knead knead till it's not as sticky as you think it should be.

3. Okay, the perfect dough. Not too sticky and not too powdery.

4. In a room without fan or air-conditioner, undress your child and start to roll the dough from the top to the bottom. Hint : If you could get help, split the dough into two and each takes a side of the child (eg. one front and the other on the back).

5. Keep a dry hankerchief nearby to wipe off sweats. Your child could sweat (because there's no air-conditioner or fan). Take note that your child do not catch cold, so wipe whenever he/she starts to sweat.

I'm not sure about you. But, this sure works for my boys. There was also once when I had to repeat this twice. Otherwise, it usually works during the first time. :)

One Day, My Dream Shall Come True

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 04:56:00 +0000

"Ivan, your mouth's empty. Come ... !" I called out to Ivan to come over for another bite over dinner. Yes, he still need to be fed during meals. You might ask why. Well, lazy to eat on his own. Besides, it takes him at least 2 hours to finish up a meal on his own. So, to lower down our frustration level, we have decided to feed him instead. Anyway, that's not the story that I want to share.

Ivan walked over towards me and when he passed by Jay, he gasped. He quickly distant himself from Jay and seeing his reaction, I turned to look at Jay.

I paused for a second and then laughed out loud at the sight of Jay. This is what happened. In order for us to enjoy our meal, I gave Jay some food for him to eat on his own. Though he was seated beside me, I was so engrossed in my food (hungry ma) and didn't take notice of him. So, a piece of bread with chocolate filling and within minutes, he has created his own masterpiece; with his face as the canvas.

It's really rare that we could eat peacefully, at our own pace. Well, I know this won't last. One day, we shall be able to eat in a fine dining restaurant in civilization and of course, a pair of well behaved children. We will share jokes, we will comment on the food, share about latest happenings and other stuffs we don't get to do over meals now.

One day, my dream shall come true.

Kewl, ya?

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 17:13:00 +0000

Cool is about being yourself

Today, I had a conversation with a colleague and that's what he quoted. We were talking about daily allowances and lunchboxes for his children. *The conversation has been cut short to prevent you from dozing off*

Me : So, how much do you give to your kids everyday? Bet RM10 would be just nice if they have to eat out, huh?

Coll : I don't really know how much .. my wife takes from my wallet for them. But, I do pack them some biscuits, bread with a slice of cheese and their favourite biscuits. Something handy in case they get hungry. At times, I pack bananas for them too.

Me : How old are your children?
I asked out of curiosity. Biscuits? Bread with cheese? And tops up with allowance? Everyday? I'm confused. The lunchbox sounded like it's prepared for a primary school child. But the allowances ... is a tad too much for primary school children.

Coll : One is Form 4 and the other Form 5.

Me giggled : kkekkek ... Mr Cool, at that age, it's kind of 'uncool' to bring lunchboxes to school. kkekeke. For me, I would want to go to the canteen, eat with my friends instead of being there but eating from my same old lunchbox food.

I'm relating to my own experience as a secondary school-er, who had to bring lunchbox to school everyday.

Coll : They do eat canteen food at times and bring back the lunchboxes. But, canteen food can be quite unpleasant sometimes, and that's when they will finish up the bread. Even if they don't eat what's served in canteen, they will still be there with their friends, eating from their lunchboxes.It's actually fine with my boys. They don't really care what people think of them. Afterall, cool is about being yourself.

Hmm ... I pondered over his remarks and now I know why.

I finally understood why I'm so darn cool.

Pediatrician

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 09:55:00 +0000

I brought Ivan to see the Dr today as he's still having fever after 4 days. Pediatrician is one of the specialists who make big bucks besides the gynecologist. However, when comes to dedication and compassion in their work and patients, not many Drs service with a heart.

We brought the boys to many pediatricians before but mostly it's around our area or a little bit further up. I’m ranting my experiences with the Pediatricians in this post. Bear with me please. There were so many disappointing ones and the worst in the record is Dr Trouble in Puchong Jaya.

Dr Trouble (Puchong Jaya)

This is the worst in history. We were in an opened-door consultation room and on the Dr's right hand was the scanner and his left hand was the list of barcodes with different types of illnesses (imagine Giant hypermarkets' cashier).

First question from the Dr, "What's wrong with him?"

"He has fever since yesterday". *beeeeeeeeeeeeppppp* (the Dr scans the "Fever" barcode).

"Anything else? Flu?" (Hard selling)

"Eerr ... ya, runny nose" *beeeeeeeeeppppp* (scans on the "Flu" barcode)

"Sore throat?"

"We are not too sure. Could you check?"

Dr reluctantly checks Ivan's throat. "Ya, a bit red" *bbbeeeeeeeeeeepp* (scans on "Sorethroat")

"Cough?"

"Yes, especially at night." *beeeeeeeeeeppppp* (scans on "Cough")

"He seems to be wheezing badly. The nurse will help you with the nebulizer later. He also need to come in for the next 2 days. No need to wait. Just tell the nurse that you are here for the Nebulizer" *beeeeeeppppp* (scans on "Double charge" - Hhaha .. I made this up)

Oh dear ... Ivan was put on the Nebulizer for the first time and he cried apeshit. We continued with the same treatment for the next 2 days before we realised what a crap Dr he is. It was disturbing to see almost all children there were on Nebulizer. I have a feeling that this is Dr Trouble's standard procedure. All of them were queuing up to get a dose of their 'drugs'. That was Ivan's first, second and last time. I silently prayed that he couldn't last in Puchong. Unfortunately, it went unanswered. I have a feeling he's still around though, conning other innocent parents.

Dr Fullamak and Nurse Fuiyoh from Bandar Puteri.

Well, she was okay in my list until the AH1N1 virus episode.

AH1N1 at that time was quite a scare. Plenty of information on prevention but nothing much on treatment details. Naturally, we were worried sick. As a worried parent, I would want the Drs (or nurses are also fine) to provide feedback as promised. I’m relating to the test results.

Jef brought Ivan for throat swab and was told to expect call from the hospital the next day. We waited and waited.. no calls. So, I called instead.

Nurse Fuiyoh gave me false assurance that everything is fine, based on her assumption that if it’s positive, the hospital would already knew it by then. So, she assumed that it has to be negative. When asked whether we could speak to the Dr, she said Dr has gone home.

We were getting really anxious as the next day was Sunday and I dread to prolong the wait for another day. About half an hour later, Dr Fullamak called. She informed us that it’s positive and we should drop by the hospital to pick up the medications. She said, “Pick it up from the emergency ward”. I asked her about Jay. I would want to have him tested as well. She replied, “Sure. The MO (medical officer) in the emergency ward will assist.” “We live very nearby. Can you wait for us please? We will come immediately”. “It’s okay to look for MO. The Dr there will assist you.”

We were treated like just ‘another case’ and I can understand why. It's the hospital and they see plenty of these cases everyday. But, can’t they pretend to care for a second?

Dr Wonderful from Puchong Jaya

Like the name implies, this is the best Dr so far. Of course the Dr has some weaknesses too (c'mon, no one is perfect) and let’s bicker about her weaknesses first.

Weaknesses :

1. She’s late most of the time. Clinic starts at 6.30 but she’s only there at 6.50 pm ++. I hate to wait. Especially with a sick child. There was once, we are the first in queue and we still had to wait for almost an hour.

2. She answers phone calls during consultation.She's the first Dr I know who answers phone calls during consultation. I find it rather disrespectful, considering that she's a professional.

Strengths :

Plenty.

1. She never hurries the patient out despite the long queue outside. She listens to the parents and checks your child thoroughly.

2. She explains your child’s condition in layman term and if necessary, she tells you what to expect in the next few days time. She does this so that you will not be caught surprised.

3. She calls you after a consultation (sometimes), just to follow up on the condition of your child.

4. She picks up your call and answers queries on the phone. I learn to appreciate this alot later on (even though I find it rather disrespectful at first). You know, especially when you just want to clarify something really quick with her.

5. She doesn't mind working through lunch and spending more time to see one more patient. On Saturdays, she sees patients from morning till 4 pm ++, without lunch. That's real dedication, folks.

There ... let me know if you would like to have Dr Wonderful's contact. :)

Little Notz

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 16:17:00 +0000

Notty notty Notz ! Notty Lil' Jay.

My Little Notz is already 15 months old and just like his nick, he's getting naughtier and cheekier. Well, somehow little children could easily get away with their mischief and even regarded as adorable ... just because they are children. Someone quoted before that her life was just full of ingredients before she had her children. With them, they are the flavours in her life. How true, nhuh? So, here ... the flavours of my life with his mischief which makes it more flavourable.

He loves to hang around the telly. He's probably finding it fascinating to have 'people' inside the little box. He knocks and slaps hard on the telly, trying to attract 'their' attention but is often pulled away by mom and dad. Geeezz.. gotta try again later.

Look closely at the picture above. Try and guess where is this place. Hmm .. no prize for correct answer though. :P Well, give up? This is how it looks like underneath of Little Notz's high chair. He will not fail to mess up the place, wherever we dine or even lunch or even breakfast. Honey, it's pretty embarrassing, really. If you noticed, there's a bowl in the picture too. After picking it up for the umpteenth times (and getting stares from people each time he drops it), I finally give up and leave it there ... atleast till I snap a picture first. Hahha .. Else, I will get stares from the waiters and waitresses for not picking it up !

I want some rice

Yay, rice !

Spoon? What spoon? I prefer hand fed.

Grandma : UUghh ... your rice stuck on me.

That's not all. Little Notz has the impression that everything CoCo has or holds must be good stuffs. Must have, must have. And how to have? Snatch. Notz snatches everything CoCo has. Poor CoCo.. being the elder brother, he had to give in the Jay's bidding. *hugz Vernie* Having said that, we as the parents disagree that we should relent to his demands. When he gets too unreasonable, we do resort to c.a.n.e.

Notz is just too cheeky to leave you alone with your folded clothes. There you are, folding a whole week's pile of clothes and with a cheeky grin, he comes over and throws your clothes, pile by pile with both hands. Left hand one, right hand one, throw throw throw.. Grrrr ...

I wrote in my earlier post that Notz love to spank people. Look at him in action, Jef caught by surprise. LOL!

I'm now wondering how it would be like 10 years from now. Hmm .. Ivan would be 15 years old and Jayden 11 years old. Will they come in here to check out how were they like when they were small?

Happy Mid-Autumn

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Sat, 16 Oct 2010 17:15:00 +0000

I would be posting some back-dated post and this is one of it. Mid-Autumn festival, celebrated on the 22 Sept 2010. Honestly, I don't really know why we celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival (there are just too many variants to the stories behind Mid-Autumn Festival). But, I do know that Mid-Autumn Festival is associated with mooncakes, brightly lighted lanterns, at times, pomelo and candles !

We celebrated Mid-Autumn Festival this year with some mooncakes and lanterns. Jef surprised us with lanterns he bought on the day itself. So, it was kind of a last minute plan event. This is the first time for JayJay and the first time for us to decorate our porch with lanterns.

Jay and his noisy lantern.

Jef bought an Ultraman lantern for Ivan and a battery-operated-reduced-noise lantern for Jay. The boys are of course excited. Excited for the lanterns and also for the neighbour's company (with 2 pretty daughters) who were also celebrating the bright round moon outside.

Next year, I'll remind myself not to get tempted with fancy snow skin mooncakes and I should just stick with the traditional baked skinned ones. And, I mustn't buy too much too. As for lanterns, we kept the lanterns bought this year and we just need to get new candles. *wink* Hope your Mid-Autumn Festival was great too.

Ivan's proud of his hand made lantern

What Are Little Boys Made Of?

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 04:05:00 +0000

Snips and snails and puppy dogs tail. That's what little boys are made of.

It has been such a long time since I last posted anything here. There are so many happenings and I would need to rely on my old memory to recall all. So, instead of all (old memory is failing me already), here are 3 random things about my boys. Let's start with Ivan.

3 random things about Ivan :

Ivan's just like daddy. An avid gamer. He can handle iPhone better than I do. Bet I don't even know how to switch it ON. Hahah, ok, I exaggerated. I do know where the ON button is. I just can’t locate games as fast as Ivan can. And, for someone who can hardly read the games instructions, he could start and play the game guided by instinct and probably, 10% from experience. By owning an iPhone, Jef literally 'owns' Ivan. For example, Ivan refuses to read his books. Jef strikes a deal with Ivan. Do your revision, then Dad lets you have the phone. Or, finish up your meal - fast. And you get to play the phone. Sounds more like a bribery to me. But well, it takes too hands to clap. There's demand, and there's supply. Fair deal, I'll say.

Ivan is rather helpful (much to my delight!). Being an older brother, Ivan helps to clean up mess done by DeeDee. Usually, it's about keeping the toys, the canisters and containers from the kitchen cabinets. There were many times when Ivan has put back the stuffs nicely and Jay walks over and destructs like an unwanted monster. Though frustrated, Ivan didn’t lose his temper and gave JayJay two tight slaps like what normal boys would probably react. He merely says, “Hey ! Hey ! JayJay !!!!!! Mummy … ! Jay messes up again !!!!” Way to go, CoCo !

Despite being out-spoken and rather vocal at home, Ivan is timid when he’s outside or when he’s facing others. I searched in the net and found plenty of help available. From today onwards, I pledge to live by this Golden Rule “Remember that a child who is withdrawn and timid will become even more so if you put pressure on him. Letting your child know that you accept him no matter what, will make him feel more relaxed in all situations.”. May the force be with Ivan and I. And also Jef. And Jay.

3 random things about Jayden :

When he's not hungry or the food is not tasty or even when the portion is too much, he spits it out like a M-16 rifle. Pppffft pffft pffffft pffffft .. if you are not careful, be prepared for a face full of rejected food.

Jay excites us with hugs and kisses now. He gave his first hug to CoCo. It started when Jay saw Ivan hugging me. He walked towards CoCo with his arms wide open and then he hugged CoCo tightly. Hhahah .. so tight till Ivan said, "Errr .. are you going to release me?".

Then, the first kiss. We were in the hypermarket when it happened. We placed Jay in the shopping cart and while pushing the cart, I leaned over to Jay and asked for a kiss on the cheek. To my surprise, he responded. A while later, Jef took over the shopping cart and asked Jay for a kiss too. Jay pouted his lips and kissed Jef on the lips. Well, I am not well and wouldn't want to pass on to Jay by kissing on the lips. But, Jef claimed that his kiss was Jay's first kiss and mine was just a peck. *watevuh!* Jef can disagree and hide in the dungeon of denial. Kiss made without pouted lips is still a kiss. It was his first and he was learning.

On the other hand, though he hugs and kisses us, he loves to spank us too. He enjoys slapping us on the face, especially when you are lying down. Once, grandma (my mom) was lying down on the sofa. Jay walked towards her, then paused when he's nearby. He grinned at her and said, "eeiii .. *sounds like hey*". That was his warning to tell Grandma that he's coming. He quickened his pace and when he's near, he slapped her several times on the face and head - with both hands. Oh dear ... this boy is rough.

So, here goes. 3 random things to fill in the littleCommas' journal.

Ivan Turns Five

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 16:19:00 +0000

Ivan celebrated his fifth birthday recently. I must say that this year is the most special birthday as his birthday coincides with his school trip to Sushi King. So, instead of the usual 'bring-cake-in-school-and-celebrate-with-friends' thing, we brought cupcakes and sweets to school for his schoolmates when they got back from Sushi King's trip.

I would imagine that the trip to Sushi King to be fun-filled. They get to learn to make sushi there and best of all, he get to 'learn' to appreciate sushi too. Ha ! Hopefully he finds love in sushi, the same love I have for sushi. Ahh .. Anyway, feeling 'important' and knowing something's coming up when he arrived back at school must have also brighten up his day that day. Jef and I waited outside of the school with the goodies (slowly melting away under the hot sun) and finally, the orange bus arrived.

We quickly distributed the goodies to his friends as some of their parents or maids were already waiting to fetch them home. Ivan helped with the distribution and shortly after, we headed home. Jef had to get back to work but it's okay as I had other plans in mind. I brought Ivan out shopping. Though we had gotten him a birthday gift, same time when we got Jay's birthday gift a month ago, but well, there's this niggling feeling of incompleteness which was bugging me. A birthday without a birthday gift is just like salad without salad dressing. Cake without cake decorations. Party without booze. Hmm, you get the idea. While it is not necessary to have, but it is the surprise element that could make a child very happy. Who could resist a smile and a hug from a child?

Dinner time, we celebrated Ivan's birthday at home. Blowing out 5 candles for the 2nd time this year and my little boy is officially 5. Happy birthday, Vernie !

Oh, by the way, teacher told me that Ivan won the best sushi competition (wow !) and that moment, I know instantly that Ivan must have shared the same special thing I have for sushi. Umm .. Sushi ...

Jay's Walking !

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 15:55:00 +0000

I was busy with Ivan's birthday cupcakes on Monday night and from the corner of my eyes, I saw Jay walking. *gasp* Jay's walking .. !! He walked without aid for about 1.5 meters (that's from dining into the wet kitchen area to look for dad). If you were there, you could see my eyes beaming proudly, watching my little boy walking bravely.

*Hhaha* Yesterday's walk was not his first few steps. He has been taking baby steps without aid and then back to aid. You know, walk walk, support support, sit. But yesterday was amazing. He took steps without support ! From then onwards, he was also proud of himself. He seems to prefer walking instead of crawling. *beaming*

I have been waiting for this day to come for such a long time. This big milestone in Jay's first 5 years. This simply means that we are going for a family photo shoot session in studio soon (soon!!). Though my late dad used to own a photo lab but sad to say, we didn't manage to take any family pictures before. Zero. Maybe we are too proud to walk into another photo studio or we only like to take pictures for others. Sadly, I only realised this after dad's passing on. It is too late then. I could only cut and paste dad's picture in ours. So, I am adamant to take family picture this time. But, I would like to have Jay walking first. You know, those natural shoots of us close ups? And my idea of natural would be everyone being in their usual self, smiling hopefully. Of course we could still take the shoots even before Jay could walk. But well, one of us would need to carry him and how do you think anyone will look like carrying a 11 kg's pack of rice? Crooked face, I think. Hmmm, some pictures of Jay and Ivan, standing by each other would be nice.

Besides photo shoot, we are going to the zoo too ! Again, this is also something which we could do before Jay could walk. I would imagine him staying in the stroller anyway. But well, I reckoned that when he could walk, he is big enough to enjoy the outing, the animals and the hot sun (and the mosquitoes and the stench !). Then why still go? Personally, I think zoo's fun. You get to smell the animals, hear them roar and see them up close. So, even though it's going to be really tiring, but it's worth it. Lately, I am preparing him for the day by showing him Barney's Zoo edition. *teehee*

And of course, if possible, we may not need the stroller in another half year's time. *phew* one item lesser to lug along. Outings are always tiring, especially for Jef. He would need to carry the bag, the boys, the stroller and he drives. tsk tsk tsk to me.

I'm so glad Jay has finally walked. :) And, could this be his present for Ivan's birthday?

Rabbit Ears

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:16:00 +0000

My recent conversation snippet with Ivan :

[Ivan] : Mom, look ! Rabbit ears .. !!

[I looked around, looked at the tv and looked at Ivan] : Where? *puzzled*

[Ivan] : Here !!!

[Me] : Lol ... Then see mine. *I pulled down my upper lips like him*

[Ivan inspected my 'rabbit ears' and said] : Naaah ... yours don't look like rabbit ears. Mine is pointed at the top. Yours is like D.

I was amused and later shared the incident with Jef.

[Me] : Hey dad, look at Ivan's Rabbit Ears. Ivan, show dad your Rabbit Ears.

Ivan pulled down his upper lips to show off his Rabbit Ears.

I quickly smell the opportunity to record a humorous blog post for future amusements. But, the post would only be complete with a picture of the Rabbit Ears. I need to persuade Ivan to pose for the camera. I persuaded him for days and finally, he agreed. Just for the sake of comparison. See, I told him that he might have D (like me) instead of Rabbit Ears when he has grown older. The picture shall serve as an evidence that he once had Rabbit Eared nostrils.

Knomo Savannah

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:14:00 +0000

The Knomo Savannah. Look at the comfortable interior. Perfect for your faithful machine !

I did further research and found the Knomo Savannah to add into the list. The ultimate backpack and to die for. Who could resist the light weighted backpack that helps to distribute the weight on both of your shoulders? To be frank, I would prefer a backpack instead of a tote as I could wear it on my back and still have two free hands to hold other stuffs.

There are some setbacks to this option though. Compared to Knomo Rubi Red Patent, black is the only colour. A tad too dull for my liking. I would prefer something outstanding and bright and cheerful. Besides, it's out of stock in Knomo. To own one, you can get it from here, selling at the normal price.

Having said that, the Knomo Savannah remains in the list. It's too sleek and chic and functional at the same time to be dropped off.

Tough, tough decision to make ! Probably I should start with a voting system and you can help me vote. Hahahha

Knomo Rubi Red Patent Laptop Bag

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:06:00 +0000

My laptop backpack is in such pathetic sight and (aaarrrrrghhhhh!!!!!!!) I saw this bag and fell in love with it instantly ! It's definitely love at first sight and I can't sleep thinking about it.

It's sleek, it's professional, it's sexy, it's RED ! There's soft cushion in the inside and you know what? There's the Unique ID System that helps you locate your cool bag if it's lost. OOhh ... my T61 would love to be in it too.

So, what's stopping me? *sigh*

Couch Potato

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 02:34:00 +0000

Put JayJay on the couch and he slides down to his comfortable position. The couch potato position. Usually when he sees me with a camera, he would rush over to snatch away from me. But, in this position, the camera doesn't interest him much. He even smiled for the camera. Say cheese baby !

Clone the Fluffy Project

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 15:19:00 +0000

I have introduced you to Fluffy before in my previous post. Fluffy the blue pillow. Super cuddly and soft. Jayden's favourite, Ivan's regret. Ivan's regret as the pillow was previously his. My mom made it for him. However, he wasn't very much in love with Fluffy at that time and hence, it was kept away till Jayden was born. With Ivan's permission, I gave Fluffy to Jayden and you know what they always say about "You never know how much you love it till you lose it?" Well, it's so true in this case. Ivan missed it so much and at times, fight over Fluffy with Jayden.

Then I decided to make Fluffy into Fluffies. Haahhaha ... Clone the Fluffy Project started with me looking hi and lo for kekabu (cotton). It wasn't easy but luckily, one of my colleagues knows where to get it and through her, I managed to get a bag full of cotton. Neat ! Next, I bought some cotton cloth and Ivan chose Blue and Red for the outer layer and Purple and Light Blue for the inner layer. I measured and cut the cloth to make 6 pillows. 2 for Ivan, 2 for Jayjay and 2 for Kayley (cutie niece !)

Then it's sewing them up. The initial plan was to send over to tailor to do it. Miss Tailor decided to charge me RM5 for each piece and RM60 for all. Hmm, too expensive. I can already buy a ready made pillow. Lucky for me that mom offered to help me with sewing. Her friends own a sewing machine. However, there were some technical glitches during the process and instead of a week, the job took more than 3 weeks to complete. Simple machine sewing ended up with manual sewing required.

Next ! Fill up with cottons. Stuffing the covers with cotton is simply the hardest of all tasks. It involves plenty of mess and sneezes. Sneezy me brought the entire project outside of the house for a stuffiing good time. Finally, the sealing up and dooooonnneee !

Oh, one final step. To help the boys identify their own pillows, I made some button-on cartoons. I made little chicken, 2 elephants, car, butterfly with flowers and dog.

So, was the cloning a success? Darn, no. Jayjay's love for Fluffy is deeper than the sea, higher than the mountain and simply irreplaceable. As for Ivan, the pillows are awesome to him. He simply love the cartoons. But not so lovey for the pillow. He's still in between his old love (Bobby) and current love (Sun - his bolster). Was I disappointed? I would be lying if I say no. But, having said that, I'm so happy to know that my boys are faithful to their love. Hahahahah ...

The Little Secret

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 13:41:00 +0000

.. or when she nibbles on yours.

I need to warn you before you read on. This post may cause discomfort and may even be offensive to some of you. Well, I have a little secret to share. *blush* I love to nibble on ears.

Don't get any wrong ideas, I don't nibble on anyone's ears but my sweetie pies' only. Seriously, I have no intention of sharing this little private secret with you but, I'm often misunderstood and hence, I felt compelled to explain myself. The nibbling action is as common as a hug and a kiss. It's just a simple gesture to show my love for them.

Like I said, I am often misunderstood. The boys perceived the action as 'provocation' and interpreted the gesture as 'annoyance'. *sigh* that is just so sad. The boys get annoyed by action of love and I was brushed off like how they do that to flies or mosquitoes. Like I am a pest. *sob*sob* When Ivan was about 3 years plus, he has started telling me, "Don't bite me !". Oh please, it's just a light nibble and no teeth were used in the action. Just a light, gentle nibble action done with loads of love.*cheeky grin*

Oh babies, please. I love you ... So, c'mon. Let me have a nibble .. :P

Force of Gravity - Jayden

noreply@blogger.com (littleComma) — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 06:16:00 +0000

Surrounded by pillows

3 years ago, Ivan tested and proofed that force of gravity do exist. Today, it's Jayden's turn to strengthen the already proven theory.

Jay fell off bed this morning with a loud plop and 2 disoriented adults scurried to his rescue. I jumped off the bed and was trying to focus to look for my darling in the dark. Jef jumped from his bed and thought that I stepped on Jay. I carried Jay and was mumbling to Jef to switch on the lights. "He felllll offffff bedddd .. Jaaaayy fellll offfff beddd ... Tuhhrrrrnn onn the lightss". I sounded like I was possessed. Exactly like the exorcist movie. Eerie and I was frightening myself with my own very-low-and-husky-voice. That's me, the disoriented adult No. 1.

The disoriented adult No. 2 had the idea that I jumped on Jay accidentally. He was in between wanting to turn on the lights and wanting to check on Jayden. He went back and forth, back and forth. He ended up scurrying over to us and hugged us both, then turned on the lights.

Thank goodness nothing happened to Jay. He was probably traumatized and hopefully he takes our warning seriously from now onwards. (Riiigghhtt ... asking a toddler to be serious). Like Ivan, Jay loves to sleep by the edge of bed. He probably loves the thrill. *sigh*

Here's what happened 3 years ago.