Although I had said that I would stop blogging here, but I really cannot keep quiet about how good and amazing God has been after we came back. So here goes... =P
Sitting in my living room, looking at the chaos all around. Workers are working in the bathrooms, changing the water heater, shower systems, taps, mirror cabinets.
Lots of drilling. Lots of dust. Lots of noise. Fan in living room is still not installed, so lots of heat too.
But sitting here, I sense the peace. =)
Our house is beginning to look familiar.
It's beginning to look like home.
One would probably think that it is so hard to be thankful for all that's happened and happening. But it is really easy.
So many little stories, reminders for us to know that God is still sovereign. He is still in-charge.
Like just a few moments ago, as the worker was removing the central water heater, we heard a loud thud. Sounded like something dropped.
When hubby went up to check, the worker said that we are 'very heng'. The top bracket which held the heater was already off from the wall. So when he removed the bottom bracket, the whole thing fell on him. Thank God that He is also protecting those who are working on this house. Worker was unhurt.
The heater was situated right above the common toilet bowl.
Another short story to tell. We needed to buy new beddings and we love Sea Horse brand. They are having 50% store-wide discounts. =)
Another shop in Heartland Mall was having 80% discounts for Sintex comforter sets.
All shipment from Japan had arrived and all unpacked and stored. When we look at how hubby and I work together to restore this house, we cant help but realise that we do really make a good pair. He handles what I dont like to do best, like packing and sorting. I handle what he doesnt like, like the kitchen, clothes and our wardrobe.
These are the little things in life that really assure me that my God is still watching over us, and He is near. =)
Saturday 2 April 2011
Sunday 27 March 2011
we are home
Arrived in Singapore this morning at 6.30am. Didnt really sleep well on the flight. But glad we all managed to catch naps in between the 7-hr flight home. It's amazing how much favour we received at the check-in counter. We had a total of 8 pieces of luggage, 117kg in all. And this is after we have shipped back almost 200kg of stuff! Gals were extremely excited to finally see their new rooms. Hubby and I really wanted to see our house. Initially we were rather overwhelmed by what we saw. A few things required our attention in the house. It was not at it's best condition. But after looking at it again. We thought it was ok, all due to wear and tear. Though I must say that the wear and tear for that 1 year was more visible than our 3 years there. =P It's like starting a new house again. Gotta get toiletries, start up the kitchen and some really major cleaning and packing. After settling our hawker-fare breakfast, gals relaxed at in-laws place while hubby and I began our errands. It took us 5hrs and 3 malls to settle our beddings and mobile phones. I got my iPhone 4! =) Since this blog was created to journal our amazing one year in Japan, so now that we are back, this is the final post of this blog. I pray that this blog has declared the awesomeness, greatness, faithfulness and grace of God. Be blessed. =)
Friday 25 March 2011
last 24hrs in Tokyo
So many thoughts. So many reflections. So many memories. So grateful. So amazing.
Hubby officially graduated today. Too many goodbyes.
Lots more to do. Terminating mobile and internet connection in the morning. Settling and shutting the gas, electricity and water bills. Packing the final 10% of stuff lying all around the house. Dining once more with our host family.
Finally, making sure I have lots of tissue paper with me.
Hubby officially graduated today. Too many goodbyes.
Lots more to do. Terminating mobile and internet connection in the morning. Settling and shutting the gas, electricity and water bills. Packing the final 10% of stuff lying all around the house. Dining once more with our host family.
Finally, making sure I have lots of tissue paper with me.
Wednesday 23 March 2011
home soon
I know we will be home on Sunday. We have been packing since last week. Kitchen is even closed today.
But it still grips me momentarily each time I realise how soon that is.
A lunch later today in hubby's college.
Graduation ceremony tomorrow. Followed by a meal with our host family.
Then it's Saturday! The day we close all accounts and make our way to the airport!
Time flies.
But it still grips me momentarily each time I realise how soon that is.
A lunch later today in hubby's college.
Graduation ceremony tomorrow. Followed by a meal with our host family.
Then it's Saturday! The day we close all accounts and make our way to the airport!
Time flies.
kitchen is closed
Yay! Only breakfast is served now. Food that requires the stove will not be served. Only the toaster and microwave are available now. =P
As I was packing today, I am reminded again of God's providence and faithfulness to us. We do not have much in the kitchen. But yet, we were not deprived of any food that we craved for. =)
I am taking this knife home with me. This is my one and only knife for the past 1 year. It has helped me cook numerous meals, more than I could imagine. Helped host on many occasions.
So happy that the kitchen is closed.
I just painted my nails. =)
As I was packing today, I am reminded again of God's providence and faithfulness to us. We do not have much in the kitchen. But yet, we were not deprived of any food that we craved for. =)
I am taking this knife home with me. This is my one and only knife for the past 1 year. It has helped me cook numerous meals, more than I could imagine. Helped host on many occasions.
So happy that the kitchen is closed.
I just painted my nails. =)
spring
Calendar says it's spring already. But it definitely does not feel anything like spring. It had been so cold the past 3 days. Temperatures below 10 degrees.
It may not feel like spring but flowers are beginning to bloom. Such a pretty sight.
Spotted these lovely flowers just after church last Sunday.
Spotted a cherry blossom tree while walking to the train station today.
Cant wait for the sakura tree downstairs to be in full bloom! =)
It may not feel like spring but flowers are beginning to bloom. Such a pretty sight.
Spotted these lovely flowers just after church last Sunday.
Spotted a cherry blossom tree while walking to the train station today.
Cant wait for the sakura tree downstairs to be in full bloom! =)
and there was light
Thank God I had waited till today before replying yesterday's email.
The HOD replied and had shed much light on the matter.
It is so crystal now.
Rachelle would still be in 5A and doing HCL. In order to continue HCL in P6 and eventually sitting for the HCL paper in the PSLE, she needs to score an A for her SA2 HCL paper this year.
The assessment that she will be sitting for when she returns, is merely a gauge for the CL to craft her lesson and manage expectations.
I am just thankful that this is all cleared up now. =)
The HOD replied and had shed much light on the matter.
It is so crystal now.
Rachelle would still be in 5A and doing HCL. In order to continue HCL in P6 and eventually sitting for the HCL paper in the PSLE, she needs to score an A for her SA2 HCL paper this year.
The assessment that she will be sitting for when she returns, is merely a gauge for the CL to craft her lesson and manage expectations.
I am just thankful that this is all cleared up now. =)
Tuesday 22 March 2011
now then you tell me
Ever since knowing which classes the gals will be attending when back in Singapore, I have been in contact with their Form Teachers. They are the nicest teachers and are great help in emailing me worksheets and even their slides used for classroom teaching.
I have yet to hear from the rest of their subject teachers. I had specifically written to ask about their CL teachers. I really needed the extra help and guidance so that I can better prepare the gals in CL.
A couple of weeks ago, I realised that the Scheme Of Work (SOW) for Rachelle's CL reflected titles that were alien to us! This got us really anxious.
You see, during our transit back in Singapore last Oct, I had bought the Higher Chinese Language (HCL) books by mistake. I didnt realise that there was another textbook for Standard CL.
And so, I asked my dad to airmail the Standard CL textbook and workbook to me once the books were delivered to my in-law's. I had bought the books according to the book list that was given to me by the school. So cannot go wrong right?
Wrong.
Rachelle has since been working on her Standard CL until we notice the different titles in the SOW. Funny thing is, the titles reflected in the SOW were from the Foundation CL books!
Confused yet?
So when we realised that, Rachelle was diligent enough to learn from both books, HCL and Standard CL. So very proud of her. She self-studied all the way, with her laptop and the iPod touch. All 6 units. Means she did 12 units.
Today her CL head decided to email me.
I was told that Rachelle needs to sit for a placement test for CL. If she does not make the mark for HCL, she will be going to another class, no longer 5A as 5A is the only class that does HCL.
That got me really upset.
Not that I was told and did not prepare Rachelle for it. But we were not informed, even having taken the initiative to ask for more info!!
Replied her emailed and clearly stated my unhappiness.
Then she said that the exercise was just a gauge for her CL. And if I so wish for Rachelle to remain in 5A, and if she doesnt perform up to mark by SA2, they will have to suggest that she takes Standard CL instead.
Not that I chose for her to go to 5A at the first place! It was told to me that she will be going to 5A. Didnt they already know that 5A is the only class doing HCL by January?!
Anyways, too tired and angry to reply her now. Will do so tomorrow. And with my email tomorrow, I will attach the SOW that was sent to me in January and my emails to the school asking for assistance in this area. And I will make sure I cc all HODs.
Now knowing who 5A's form teacher is, I really want Rachelle to remain in 5A. Primary 5 and 6 are vital years leading to the PSLE. And a good teacher plays a very important role.
I have yet to hear from the rest of their subject teachers. I had specifically written to ask about their CL teachers. I really needed the extra help and guidance so that I can better prepare the gals in CL.
A couple of weeks ago, I realised that the Scheme Of Work (SOW) for Rachelle's CL reflected titles that were alien to us! This got us really anxious.
You see, during our transit back in Singapore last Oct, I had bought the Higher Chinese Language (HCL) books by mistake. I didnt realise that there was another textbook for Standard CL.
And so, I asked my dad to airmail the Standard CL textbook and workbook to me once the books were delivered to my in-law's. I had bought the books according to the book list that was given to me by the school. So cannot go wrong right?
Wrong.
Rachelle has since been working on her Standard CL until we notice the different titles in the SOW. Funny thing is, the titles reflected in the SOW were from the Foundation CL books!
Confused yet?
So when we realised that, Rachelle was diligent enough to learn from both books, HCL and Standard CL. So very proud of her. She self-studied all the way, with her laptop and the iPod touch. All 6 units. Means she did 12 units.
Today her CL head decided to email me.
I was told that Rachelle needs to sit for a placement test for CL. If she does not make the mark for HCL, she will be going to another class, no longer 5A as 5A is the only class that does HCL.
That got me really upset.
Not that I was told and did not prepare Rachelle for it. But we were not informed, even having taken the initiative to ask for more info!!
Replied her emailed and clearly stated my unhappiness.
Then she said that the exercise was just a gauge for her CL. And if I so wish for Rachelle to remain in 5A, and if she doesnt perform up to mark by SA2, they will have to suggest that she takes Standard CL instead.
Not that I chose for her to go to 5A at the first place! It was told to me that she will be going to 5A. Didnt they already know that 5A is the only class doing HCL by January?!
Anyways, too tired and angry to reply her now. Will do so tomorrow. And with my email tomorrow, I will attach the SOW that was sent to me in January and my emails to the school asking for assistance in this area. And I will make sure I cc all HODs.
Now knowing who 5A's form teacher is, I really want Rachelle to remain in 5A. Primary 5 and 6 are vital years leading to the PSLE. And a good teacher plays a very important role.
instant curry
We were supposed to host a simple dinner tonight. Just 2 of them. It was to be a really simple dinner of Okonomiyaki (japanese pancake) and Gyoza. Dinner would be served at 7pm.
At about 5pm, I was asked if we have enough for 1 more person. It was really tough to say no when that person was already either here or making his way here.
I had only 500g of chicken (frozen), 1 carrot, 1 onion and some frozen wedges. Had intended to make Japanese curry for tomorrow's dinner.
But decided to use the same ingredients to make a Singaporean curry instead. Defrosting the chicken in this weather was really challenging. Thank God for the defrosting mode in our intelligent microwave. Thank God that I had wedges and not raw potatoes. Raw potatoes would have taken a lot longer to soften.
By 6pm, I was ready to serve the curry chicken. =)
With that meal, I now have only to prepare 1 more lunch tomorrow and I can seriously start to pack the kitchen after that.
At about 5pm, I was asked if we have enough for 1 more person. It was really tough to say no when that person was already either here or making his way here.
I had only 500g of chicken (frozen), 1 carrot, 1 onion and some frozen wedges. Had intended to make Japanese curry for tomorrow's dinner.
But decided to use the same ingredients to make a Singaporean curry instead. Defrosting the chicken in this weather was really challenging. Thank God for the defrosting mode in our intelligent microwave. Thank God that I had wedges and not raw potatoes. Raw potatoes would have taken a lot longer to soften.
By 6pm, I was ready to serve the curry chicken. =)
With that meal, I now have only to prepare 1 more lunch tomorrow and I can seriously start to pack the kitchen after that.
Monday 21 March 2011
sakura tree
When we first arrived at the accommodation at Meguro, the one and only sakura tree there was in full bloom. It was a super pretty welcome for us.
I have been observing this tree for the past 2 weeks now. Hoping that it'll bloom for us just before we leave this place.
Green buds are gradually appearing on the branches. As Joanna and I went to the store this morning, we walked passed the tree and noticed that the green buds were on the entire tree already!
We have just about another 4 more days here before we leave for the airport on Saturday evening.
Just as we returned from the store. As we walked pass the tree, I spoke to it.
"Be in full bloom on Saturday morning!"
It has been raining the whole of today. Forecasted rain for tomorrow and cloudy throughout the week. Temperatures well below 12 degrees.
Oh wells. I just feel that we will see it bloom before we leave.
We'll see. =)
I have been observing this tree for the past 2 weeks now. Hoping that it'll bloom for us just before we leave this place.
Green buds are gradually appearing on the branches. As Joanna and I went to the store this morning, we walked passed the tree and noticed that the green buds were on the entire tree already!
We have just about another 4 more days here before we leave for the airport on Saturday evening.
Just as we returned from the store. As we walked pass the tree, I spoke to it.
"Be in full bloom on Saturday morning!"
It has been raining the whole of today. Forecasted rain for tomorrow and cloudy throughout the week. Temperatures well below 12 degrees.
Oh wells. I just feel that we will see it bloom before we leave.
We'll see. =)
Sunday 20 March 2011
6 more sleeps
It is amazing how God has provided for us, how everything is measured perfectly. There is very little wastage when we eventually pack by Thursday.
Kitchen will be closed after Wednesday's dinner. So I have planned out the 9 meals for the next 3 days, using almost everything I have on the fridge. It is amazing.
Even small items like laundry detergent. I am down to the very last spoonful, just nice for 1 final load before we leave. Think we will be left with only 1 new toilet roll too.
Just saw photos of our house from my brother. Thank God for family. He has been looking after our car, and now, our house. Wood work for the gals' rooms are done. Waiting for them to dispose of the rubbish and wash up.
Still having mixed feelings about going home.
But I'm sure it will feel very good to be home.
Kitchen will be closed after Wednesday's dinner. So I have planned out the 9 meals for the next 3 days, using almost everything I have on the fridge. It is amazing.
Even small items like laundry detergent. I am down to the very last spoonful, just nice for 1 final load before we leave. Think we will be left with only 1 new toilet roll too.
Just saw photos of our house from my brother. Thank God for family. He has been looking after our car, and now, our house. Wood work for the gals' rooms are done. Waiting for them to dispose of the rubbish and wash up.
Still having mixed feelings about going home.
But I'm sure it will feel very good to be home.
Friday 18 March 2011
superlative one year
Think we basically experienced all the Japan could offer. Not only that. Each experience was at its extreme degree.
Longest Sakura Blooms
The usual is just 5 days to a week but we had at least 2 weeks of sakura.
Most 美味しいLamb
BBQ Hokkaido lamb. 最高. The best. Literally melts in the mouth. We had it twice. Once in Spring and the other in Winter.
Hottest Summer
Japan recorded the hottest summer in 112 years. We were all pretty dark-skinned during summer. Especially the gals. They have swimming lessons in school during summer.
Most Memorable Riverbed Experience
If you were to ask the gals for their most memorable experience in Yamanashi, they will tell you it's the riverbed experience. We were there in Summer. Water was so crisp and clear that you could actually drink from the stream. We even had a little picnic lunch there. it was also then when we learnt how to remain calm in the presence of bees.
Best Family Holiday EVER
Clubmed Sahoro was it. Though it was also the most tiring and painful holiday for me too. In fact the palm-sized blue-black on the sheen is only beginning to fade. Gals had immense fun and even made a new BFFL. They are still keeping in touch after the holiday, emailing and chatting.
Coldest Winter
Unusual amounts of snowfall was reported. When we were at Ishikawa, it snowed, first time in 5 years. And when we were at Yamanashi, it snowed on the day we arrived. The amount of snowfall that day was equivalent to the amount of snowfall for 5 days in past years.
Most Hospitable Host Family
We have been so blessed by our host family. Invited us 3 times to their Yamanashi house. Always in contact with us. Brought us around. Love the gals like their grandchildren. Taught gals how to play the piano.
Worst Earthquake and Tsunami
M9, one of the biggest earthquake in the world. Japan is so quake-ready that the quake really did minimal damage to the country. It was the tsunami that killed and destroyed. And now, it's the nuclear situation that worries Japan, more so the world.
Strongest and Calmest People
Though the footages of the devastation keeps showing on every possible TV channel, you can hardly find a Japanese wailing uncontrollably for the lost of his family or house. You dont see any looting or chaos when limited food and water are given to those living in temporary shelters.
This has indeed been the most amazing one year that we have had.
Of course there are many others like how God's timing is the best and how He has provided for us.
Indeed. We are so grateful.
Hoping to see sakuras before we leave. =)
Longest Sakura Blooms
The usual is just 5 days to a week but we had at least 2 weeks of sakura.
Most 美味しいLamb
BBQ Hokkaido lamb. 最高. The best. Literally melts in the mouth. We had it twice. Once in Spring and the other in Winter.
Hottest Summer
Japan recorded the hottest summer in 112 years. We were all pretty dark-skinned during summer. Especially the gals. They have swimming lessons in school during summer.
Most Memorable Riverbed Experience
If you were to ask the gals for their most memorable experience in Yamanashi, they will tell you it's the riverbed experience. We were there in Summer. Water was so crisp and clear that you could actually drink from the stream. We even had a little picnic lunch there. it was also then when we learnt how to remain calm in the presence of bees.
Best Family Holiday EVER
Clubmed Sahoro was it. Though it was also the most tiring and painful holiday for me too. In fact the palm-sized blue-black on the sheen is only beginning to fade. Gals had immense fun and even made a new BFFL. They are still keeping in touch after the holiday, emailing and chatting.
Coldest Winter
Unusual amounts of snowfall was reported. When we were at Ishikawa, it snowed, first time in 5 years. And when we were at Yamanashi, it snowed on the day we arrived. The amount of snowfall that day was equivalent to the amount of snowfall for 5 days in past years.
Most Hospitable Host Family
We have been so blessed by our host family. Invited us 3 times to their Yamanashi house. Always in contact with us. Brought us around. Love the gals like their grandchildren. Taught gals how to play the piano.
Worst Earthquake and Tsunami
M9, one of the biggest earthquake in the world. Japan is so quake-ready that the quake really did minimal damage to the country. It was the tsunami that killed and destroyed. And now, it's the nuclear situation that worries Japan, more so the world.
Strongest and Calmest People
Though the footages of the devastation keeps showing on every possible TV channel, you can hardly find a Japanese wailing uncontrollably for the lost of his family or house. You dont see any looting or chaos when limited food and water are given to those living in temporary shelters.
This has indeed been the most amazing one year that we have had.
Of course there are many others like how God's timing is the best and how He has provided for us.
Indeed. We are so grateful.
Hoping to see sakuras before we leave. =)
final week @ Tokyo
Suddenly everything seems to move fast again. It felt painfully slow last week. Especially after the quake, tsunami and the present nuclear situation.
We have already posted out 30kg x 5 boxes of stuff back home. A 30kg luggage, a 20+kg luggage and a small one filled with souvenirs and gifts.
2 more empty ones for our remaining clothes and stuff.
Looks like we dont have to buy any more groceries. In fact, I have to start packing the kitchen. The house has to be empty when we leave. We have been packing and I think that we are making good progress.
Homeschool will only last for one session instead of 2 for the week. Leaving the afternoon for hubby and I to do more packing and logistics for our return. Gals are making good progress in catching up too. In fact almost all covered. So very proud of them. =)
It has been another peaceful day here.
Oh. And yes. I visited the hairdresser today too. =P
We have already posted out 30kg x 5 boxes of stuff back home. A 30kg luggage, a 20+kg luggage and a small one filled with souvenirs and gifts.
2 more empty ones for our remaining clothes and stuff.
Looks like we dont have to buy any more groceries. In fact, I have to start packing the kitchen. The house has to be empty when we leave. We have been packing and I think that we are making good progress.
Homeschool will only last for one session instead of 2 for the week. Leaving the afternoon for hubby and I to do more packing and logistics for our return. Gals are making good progress in catching up too. In fact almost all covered. So very proud of them. =)
It has been another peaceful day here.
Oh. And yes. I visited the hairdresser today too. =P
flights changed
HQ contacted hubby this afternoon, asking if he could find an earlier flight home after the graduation ceremony.
Hubby was able to change our flights from 28th to 27th. Although there is a similar flight on 26th, we thought it would be less of a rush for us if we took the 27th flight.
Graduation ceremony is on the 25th. If we had taken the 26th flight, it'll mean that we will have to be at the airport on 25th night to catch the 0030hrs flight. Too tight for our liking.
It's just 24hrs earlier. It seems no difference for us. But as always, believing that God's timing is best and He knows better.
Hubby was able to change our flights from 28th to 27th. Although there is a similar flight on 26th, we thought it would be less of a rush for us if we took the 27th flight.
Graduation ceremony is on the 25th. If we had taken the 26th flight, it'll mean that we will have to be at the airport on 25th night to catch the 0030hrs flight. Too tight for our liking.
It's just 24hrs earlier. It seems no difference for us. But as always, believing that God's timing is best and He knows better.
Thursday 17 March 2011
peaceful day
Hardly felt any tremors today.
Except for 2 just before bed time.
A very cold day today. But in order to break the monotony of things, we all went out to Jusco @ Shinagawa. Due to many people stocking up in fear, the bread, rice, eggs, instant noodles and pasta shelves were empty.
Guess the shelves are replenished every day but within 30min soon after the store opens, the shelves are empty again.
Other things were still available. Like meats, veggies and frozen food.
Hardly any news about the nuclear situation @ Fukushima too. Guess no news is good news. =P
Hubby received a couple of emails and calls from Singapore. Basically checking on our status. Think they are concerned if we should go back earlier if there are no pressing reasons to be here.
But who is to decide what is pressing or not?
Hubby's here for a course, so as of now, the course has not ended and the graduation ceremony will be held on the 25th. Ceremony will be attended by quite a number of their big shots. So isnt it rude and insensitive if Singapore were to pull us back when there is really no pressing danger here?
Anyways, we have just about 10 more days here.
頑張ります! =)
Except for 2 just before bed time.
A very cold day today. But in order to break the monotony of things, we all went out to Jusco @ Shinagawa. Due to many people stocking up in fear, the bread, rice, eggs, instant noodles and pasta shelves were empty.
Guess the shelves are replenished every day but within 30min soon after the store opens, the shelves are empty again.
Other things were still available. Like meats, veggies and frozen food.
Hardly any news about the nuclear situation @ Fukushima too. Guess no news is good news. =P
Hubby received a couple of emails and calls from Singapore. Basically checking on our status. Think they are concerned if we should go back earlier if there are no pressing reasons to be here.
But who is to decide what is pressing or not?
Hubby's here for a course, so as of now, the course has not ended and the graduation ceremony will be held on the 25th. Ceremony will be attended by quite a number of their big shots. So isnt it rude and insensitive if Singapore were to pull us back when there is really no pressing danger here?
Anyways, we have just about 10 more days here.
頑張ります! =)
Wednesday 16 March 2011
bored to tears
Literally.
The gals, that is.
With the nuclear situation not improving much,
Gals are not allowed to play outdoors.
With the news appearing on almost every channel,
Gals have got no funny TV programs to watch.
With almost everything packed and shipped out,
Gals are left with 1 laptop and 1 NDS.
With 4 of us at home for almost 24hrs a day,
The constant bickering of the gals can really drive us crazy.
But on the contrary, think I am the busiest person in the family for now.
On a regular day, after preparing breakfast, homeschool starts from 9-11am. Lunch preparation is from 11am-12pm. After lunch, homeschool starts again at about 1.30-3.30pm. Then it's time for me to prepare the ingredients for dinner. Dinner is usually at 6.30pm. Gals' bedtime is at 9.30pm.
Even though there's not much time for the gals to play. They are already getting so bored, especially after dinner.
Guess now I will have to think of something for them to be engaged in from at least 8-9pm. Maybe some craft work, silly games or science experiments.
I need creativity!
Just 11 more days! =)
The gals, that is.
With the nuclear situation not improving much,
Gals are not allowed to play outdoors.
With the news appearing on almost every channel,
Gals have got no funny TV programs to watch.
With almost everything packed and shipped out,
Gals are left with 1 laptop and 1 NDS.
With 4 of us at home for almost 24hrs a day,
The constant bickering of the gals can really drive us crazy.
But on the contrary, think I am the busiest person in the family for now.
On a regular day, after preparing breakfast, homeschool starts from 9-11am. Lunch preparation is from 11am-12pm. After lunch, homeschool starts again at about 1.30-3.30pm. Then it's time for me to prepare the ingredients for dinner. Dinner is usually at 6.30pm. Gals' bedtime is at 9.30pm.
Even though there's not much time for the gals to play. They are already getting so bored, especially after dinner.
Guess now I will have to think of something for them to be engaged in from at least 8-9pm. Maybe some craft work, silly games or science experiments.
I need creativity!
Just 11 more days! =)
another M6 quake
There was yet another M6 earthquake @ Chiba Prefecture at 12.52pm just now. By the time Tokyo felt it, it was about M3.
Think it is not usual for that many earthquakes to follow after a huge one.
Japan is continuing her battle in cooling and controlling the nuclear plants in Fukushima. Every morning we wake up. The first thing we check is the news.
I think there should be a change in our routine.
We should wake up and thank God for protecting us through the night!
Received 2 calls this morning. Asking us if we should consider going back sooner than planned. One was from our Singaporean missionary here, the other is from AMD.
Got a feeling that we might really end up leaving Japan earlier than scheduled. Not sure when though. But I'm sure the timing will be perfect, cos God is in control.
Anyways, we will be packing this afternoon. As much as we can. An emergency evacuation bag, and also our luggages.
Think it is not usual for that many earthquakes to follow after a huge one.
Japan is continuing her battle in cooling and controlling the nuclear plants in Fukushima. Every morning we wake up. The first thing we check is the news.
I think there should be a change in our routine.
We should wake up and thank God for protecting us through the night!
Received 2 calls this morning. Asking us if we should consider going back sooner than planned. One was from our Singaporean missionary here, the other is from AMD.
Got a feeling that we might really end up leaving Japan earlier than scheduled. Not sure when though. But I'm sure the timing will be perfect, cos God is in control.
Anyways, we will be packing this afternoon. As much as we can. An emergency evacuation bag, and also our luggages.
Tuesday 15 March 2011
another explosion... another quake
Another blast this morning, the 3rd so far. Must be how the media had carried the news, Singapore started calling us to check our status.
Apparently, news reported that radiation levels have risen in Tokyo. Levels had increased in Saitama. But not harmful levels. There is no cause for any panic.
Good news is that the winds are blowing towards the open sea, away from Japan.
At 10.31pm just now, there was a rather strong tremor. Lasted for about 10sec. Thought it was just another aftershock till I tuned to the live streaming from NHK.
It was an M6 earthquake in Shizuoka prefecture. But here in Tokyo, it probably was a M3 by the time it got here.
Gals were woken by the quake and are now sleeping with us in our room.
But all is well now.
Japan is very quake-ready. Buildings are constructed to withstand earthquakes. So even in last Friday's quake, there were no massive damages to buildings, not even in concrete-jungled Tokyo. It was the tsunami that killed people and caused the greatest destruction.
Apparently, news reported that radiation levels have risen in Tokyo. Levels had increased in Saitama. But not harmful levels. There is no cause for any panic.
Good news is that the winds are blowing towards the open sea, away from Japan.
At 10.31pm just now, there was a rather strong tremor. Lasted for about 10sec. Thought it was just another aftershock till I tuned to the live streaming from NHK.
It was an M6 earthquake in Shizuoka prefecture. But here in Tokyo, it probably was a M3 by the time it got here.
Gals were woken by the quake and are now sleeping with us in our room.
But all is well now.
Japan is very quake-ready. Buildings are constructed to withstand earthquakes. So even in last Friday's quake, there were no massive damages to buildings, not even in concrete-jungled Tokyo. It was the tsunami that killed people and caused the greatest destruction.
Monday 14 March 2011
doing our small bit for japan
Though we are not affected by the periodic power cuts which started today at other prefectures, we are doing our little bit to help conserve electricity.
Sleeping without the heater.
Gathering in the living room instead of in different bedrooms.
Switching on only one light instead of 2 in the living room.
Not much I guess. But it does make us feel better. =)
Sleeping without the heater.
Gathering in the living room instead of in different bedrooms.
Switching on only one light instead of 2 in the living room.
Not much I guess. But it does make us feel better. =)
we are safe
Not sure how the news of the quake and tsunami is being broad casted back at home. Many of our family members and friends are very worried about our safety.
We are generally safe in Tokyo. Although my sauce rack did topple and the things in the cupboards moved during the quake, there has been no damage to the building which we live in. Only the gas was cut off on Friday but it returned the next morning.
We are also not yet affected by the electricity cuts which started today. We still have our gas, electricity and water.
The grounds are still shaking from time to time. But nothing major. No need to head under the dining table.
We are more than 200km from Fukushima, the nuclear site. So as of now, we are in no danger.
The nearest supermarket and convenient stores around here are generally out of bread and biscuits. Bottled water is also running low.
Even if we do not go out to buy food and groceries for the next 2 weeks, we have enough to eat at home.
Homeschool continues for the gals. We do 2 x 2-hr slots everyday and are very happy that we are actually catching up with the school's syllabus. In fact, the gals are up to date in their Science and Mathematics. Rachelle has 1.5 more chapters for Chinese, while Joanna has another 2 more to go.
As of now, we are still going back as scheduled, nothing earlier. But depending on the developments here, there may be changes. We'll see.
God has indeed been faithful. He has continued to be our Jehovah Jireh. His grace and mercy is more than enough for us. We have never been in lack and never will.
On the one hand we are eager to be back home.
But on the other, we really hate to leave Japan feeling this way.
We are generally safe in Tokyo. Although my sauce rack did topple and the things in the cupboards moved during the quake, there has been no damage to the building which we live in. Only the gas was cut off on Friday but it returned the next morning.
We are also not yet affected by the electricity cuts which started today. We still have our gas, electricity and water.
The grounds are still shaking from time to time. But nothing major. No need to head under the dining table.
We are more than 200km from Fukushima, the nuclear site. So as of now, we are in no danger.
The nearest supermarket and convenient stores around here are generally out of bread and biscuits. Bottled water is also running low.
Even if we do not go out to buy food and groceries for the next 2 weeks, we have enough to eat at home.
Homeschool continues for the gals. We do 2 x 2-hr slots everyday and are very happy that we are actually catching up with the school's syllabus. In fact, the gals are up to date in their Science and Mathematics. Rachelle has 1.5 more chapters for Chinese, while Joanna has another 2 more to go.
As of now, we are still going back as scheduled, nothing earlier. But depending on the developments here, there may be changes. We'll see.
God has indeed been faithful. He has continued to be our Jehovah Jireh. His grace and mercy is more than enough for us. We have never been in lack and never will.
On the one hand we are eager to be back home.
But on the other, we really hate to leave Japan feeling this way.
Sunday 13 March 2011
heavy
Dont wanna leave Japan this way. Heart's so heavy. Feeling so small. Sitting in front of the TV. Watching the footages. And there is nothing we can do about it.
Went to church today. Thinking there would be an opportunity to serve the people of Japan through some relief work. But think it is still too early. Plans and teams are not set up yet.
Hubby has to report to college tomorrow for an emergency meeting. We are suspecting that the course will be cut short. Many, if not all, of his classmates have been recalled for relief work.
We may be home sooner. Not sure if there will be any problems with the air tickets.
But really. It is not a nice feeling to be leaving Japan now. Really wishing we could do something for the people of Japan.
Went to church today. Thinking there would be an opportunity to serve the people of Japan through some relief work. But think it is still too early. Plans and teams are not set up yet.
Hubby has to report to college tomorrow for an emergency meeting. We are suspecting that the course will be cut short. Many, if not all, of his classmates have been recalled for relief work.
We may be home sooner. Not sure if there will be any problems with the air tickets.
But really. It is not a nice feeling to be leaving Japan now. Really wishing we could do something for the people of Japan.
Saturday 12 March 2011
relief work
Every channel on the TV is just news and updates of the earthquake. Very depressing actually. To see how destructive the tsunami was, sweeping at least 10km inland. Houses literally floated away. Trains derailed and washed away.
Today there were more interviews of the victims. Even more heart-wrenching. Some water has receded, it is even more clear now how massive is the destruction.
We just have about 2 weeks here. Thinking how we can help Japan. Besides our prayers and monetary donation, we are thinking how we can be doing any relief work.
Instead of sitting around the whole day and feeling aftershock one after another, it would be good if we were able to provide some form of encouragement and comfort somehow, somewhere.
Today there were more interviews of the victims. Even more heart-wrenching. Some water has receded, it is even more clear now how massive is the destruction.
We just have about 2 weeks here. Thinking how we can help Japan. Besides our prayers and monetary donation, we are thinking how we can be doing any relief work.
Instead of sitting around the whole day and feeling aftershock one after another, it would be good if we were able to provide some form of encouragement and comfort somehow, somewhere.
Friday 11 March 2011
change
Just yesterday, I was counting down to going home. Felt that time was passing way too fast. That we have ONLY 18 more days in Japan.
After experiencing today's quake, I am saying we STILL have 17 more days to go.
Wishing to be home sooner.
After experiencing today's quake, I am saying we STILL have 17 more days to go.
Wishing to be home sooner.
after-shock
Still feeling the after-shocks of the afternoon quake. In fact, another one just passed. It is getting gentler but still makes me nervous each time. Wonder if we should head under the table again.
Since the quake happened, our gas supply has been cut. So I guess no one in this building is gonna bathe nor cook today.
The siren of ambulances, fire engines and helicopters were constantly heard throughout the day. Numerous broadcasts were made but I could understand none. Dont even know if it was telling us to evacuate.
Really praying that the worst is over.
This is the worst for Japan in over 100 years.
Since the quake happened, our gas supply has been cut. So I guess no one in this building is gonna bathe nor cook today.
The siren of ambulances, fire engines and helicopters were constantly heard throughout the day. Numerous broadcasts were made but I could understand none. Dont even know if it was telling us to evacuate.
Really praying that the worst is over.
This is the worst for Japan in over 100 years.
2.46pm
Had just completed school with the gals at 2.30pm and was preparing the ingredients for dinner. Gals were playing in their room.
"Stop shaking my bed 姐!" shouted Joanna.
"I'm not!" yelled Rachelle.
"I said STOP shaking my bed!"
I was about to intervene when I realised that the entire house was shaking! Thought it would stop as quickly as it came, as always. But not this one.
Gals and I cuddled under the dining table. Hubby was hanging out the wash at that time. We all started praying hard. I broke out in tongues. Gals kept begging for God to stop the shaking.
It was really quite traumatising.
We are still feeling the tremors now.
Some are still rather strong.
Our eyes are glued to the TV for the latest updates of the quake and tsunami. It wrenches my heart to witness the massive destruction brought about by this disaster.
Decided not to cook dinner tonight. Hubby had just bought bentos home. While hubby was out, the gals and I read Psalm 91 together. Wanted to reassure them of God's promised protection.
Now praying for Japan. The tsunami has swept away many houses, properties and cars. Fires broke out everywhere.
Lord have mercy.
oops... another big tremor...
"Stop shaking my bed 姐!" shouted Joanna.
"I'm not!" yelled Rachelle.
"I said STOP shaking my bed!"
I was about to intervene when I realised that the entire house was shaking! Thought it would stop as quickly as it came, as always. But not this one.
Gals and I cuddled under the dining table. Hubby was hanging out the wash at that time. We all started praying hard. I broke out in tongues. Gals kept begging for God to stop the shaking.
It was really quite traumatising.
We are still feeling the tremors now.
Some are still rather strong.
Our eyes are glued to the TV for the latest updates of the quake and tsunami. It wrenches my heart to witness the massive destruction brought about by this disaster.
Decided not to cook dinner tonight. Hubby had just bought bentos home. While hubby was out, the gals and I read Psalm 91 together. Wanted to reassure them of God's promised protection.
Now praying for Japan. The tsunami has swept away many houses, properties and cars. Fires broke out everywhere.
Lord have mercy.
oops... another big tremor...
Thursday 10 March 2011
counting down
Eighteen more days left in Tokyo.
Every meal is spelt out now so that I do not buy too much groceries.
Planning is everything now.
On top of homeschooling the gals, I still have to prepare all 3 meals for the family. I will have to prepare all ingredients for lunch before breakfast is over so that I am focused while I am teaching the gals.
Kitchen will be closed and packed 3 days before departure.
Minor renovation to our house back home started today. Lots of coordination via internet.
So many loose ends to tie.
But it is gonna be a smooth transition back home cos God's in control. =)
As of now, my April and May are almost filled up with work appointments already.
So fast.
We
will
be
home
soon.
=)
Every meal is spelt out now so that I do not buy too much groceries.
Planning is everything now.
On top of homeschooling the gals, I still have to prepare all 3 meals for the family. I will have to prepare all ingredients for lunch before breakfast is over so that I am focused while I am teaching the gals.
Kitchen will be closed and packed 3 days before departure.
Minor renovation to our house back home started today. Lots of coordination via internet.
So many loose ends to tie.
But it is gonna be a smooth transition back home cos God's in control. =)
As of now, my April and May are almost filled up with work appointments already.
So fast.
We
will
be
home
soon.
=)
the perfect holiday
Really thank God for the most perfect holiday our family has ever had, a ski holiday @ Clubmed Sahoro. I mean He had it all planned out for us, for me. =)
The trip was booked more than a month in advance. We bought our own ski suits. We were really glad that we had gotten them early cos we used them not once, not twice but 3 times!
Used them first at Ishikawa on new year's day. Then @ Yamanashi when we visited our host family. And finally throughout our ski holiday.
As the holiday drew nearer, I realised that I would be having my period right smack on the first day of the holiday. Was super upset. Not that I could not ski with my period, just that it'll be uncomfortable and troublesome.
Just when I was getting myself all upset and bemoaning how troublesome it would be, it came and by the time we left Tokyo, it cleared.
That was the start for me to realise that my God is again, giving me more than I could ever ask or imagine! That was when I knew that the holiday would be the best holiday that we were gonna have. It was gonna be a perfect trip.
And indeed it was.
The weather was great the whole week.
In fact, we did not feel chattering-cold up in Sahoro.
We heard of how other parents' children were falling ill, vomiting all over the place, running high fevers in the night. But the Lord's hand of protection was over the gals all the time.
Even though I fell numerous times. I was never hurt in a serious way. My muscles may ache and a couple of blue-black here and there. But nothing major.
In fact, during the time when I tumbled down the slope and lost one of my skis, I felt a hard knock to the back of my head. But it felt as though I had a helmet on and the hard knock was absorbed by the helmet.
The fact is, I had NO HELMET on.
When we were at the airport waiting for our flight back to Tokyo on Wednesday, hubby received a call from Singapore to ask if we were ok. Apparently there was an earthquake and tsunami warning in Tokyo that morning.
Really felt so blessed. So loved. So favoured.
Each time I went on the chair lift, or the Pommel lift, I would be singing praises, worshipping Him, thanking Him for the holiday and the amazing year that we have had as a family in Japan.
Cant wait to get back home. Wanna be that channel of blessing to others, that's what I sense that the Lord is asking of us when we get back. In as much as we have received, and are going to keep on receiving, we are to bless others as a family.
Dont know what that means exactly. In what way? By what means? Absolutely no idea.
Just know that it's gonna be an even more amazing year for us. =)
*photos of the trip are posted on FB*
The trip was booked more than a month in advance. We bought our own ski suits. We were really glad that we had gotten them early cos we used them not once, not twice but 3 times!
Used them first at Ishikawa on new year's day. Then @ Yamanashi when we visited our host family. And finally throughout our ski holiday.
As the holiday drew nearer, I realised that I would be having my period right smack on the first day of the holiday. Was super upset. Not that I could not ski with my period, just that it'll be uncomfortable and troublesome.
Just when I was getting myself all upset and bemoaning how troublesome it would be, it came and by the time we left Tokyo, it cleared.
That was the start for me to realise that my God is again, giving me more than I could ever ask or imagine! That was when I knew that the holiday would be the best holiday that we were gonna have. It was gonna be a perfect trip.
And indeed it was.
The weather was great the whole week.
In fact, we did not feel chattering-cold up in Sahoro.
We heard of how other parents' children were falling ill, vomiting all over the place, running high fevers in the night. But the Lord's hand of protection was over the gals all the time.
Even though I fell numerous times. I was never hurt in a serious way. My muscles may ache and a couple of blue-black here and there. But nothing major.
In fact, during the time when I tumbled down the slope and lost one of my skis, I felt a hard knock to the back of my head. But it felt as though I had a helmet on and the hard knock was absorbed by the helmet.
The fact is, I had NO HELMET on.
When we were at the airport waiting for our flight back to Tokyo on Wednesday, hubby received a call from Singapore to ask if we were ok. Apparently there was an earthquake and tsunami warning in Tokyo that morning.
Really felt so blessed. So loved. So favoured.
Each time I went on the chair lift, or the Pommel lift, I would be singing praises, worshipping Him, thanking Him for the holiday and the amazing year that we have had as a family in Japan.
Cant wait to get back home. Wanna be that channel of blessing to others, that's what I sense that the Lord is asking of us when we get back. In as much as we have received, and are going to keep on receiving, we are to bless others as a family.
Dont know what that means exactly. In what way? By what means? Absolutely no idea.
Just know that it's gonna be an even more amazing year for us. =)
*photos of the trip are posted on FB*
Wednesday 9 March 2011
ski diary
Day 1
Went for Club Beginner today. Most tiring. Learnt how to do a 'snow plough' down a tiny gentle slope. Kept getting my skis crossed at their tips. Legs were not parted enough. Went on Chair Lift 1. Terrifying. Legs were begging me to stop skiing. Entire body aching at the end of the day.
Day 2
Got promoted to Club 1 today. Had a Japanese instructor. Didnt really could quite understand what he wants us to do due to some language barrier. Brought us up to Chair Lift 2 in the afternoon. Scared the s**ts out of me. Chair Lift 2 was so steep!
I lost count on the number of times I fell. One of which, I crashed into a tree. Geez. Think I expended most of my energies trying to get up from all my falls.
Super discouraged after today's session. Really wanted to stop skiing. But the thought of how much we have already spent in rental of the boots and skis, I cannot give up.
So I decided to repeat Club 1 tomorrow while hubby promotes to Club 2.
Day 3
Club 1 again today. Got a different instructor today, a Canadian guy. Felt a whole lot more confident today. Could actually say that I enjoyed myself!
Today is the day I rose to 'fame'. I crashed into my instructor. =P
And he went about harping on it the whole day, even at dinner time. But it was ok. Just laughed everything off. It was funny. I like him, his techniques, his straightforward-ness, his wit, his sense of humour.
And he promoted me to Club 2 tomorrow. That means I will be skiing with hubby tomorrow. =)
Day 4
Club 2 and Canadian instructor was brave enough to turn up for class today, despite knowing that I will be there. LOL.
But man, worst ski day ever.
One of the falls were so bad. It was on Chair Lift 2. Think I literally somersaulted down the slope. When I finally came to a stop, I realised that one of my skis was missing and it was about 3m up slope.
It was so painful retrieving that ski. To take off the other ski and climb uphill is not funny. And to put my skis back on on a slope is also not funny.
I really wanted to stop skiing. Body was aching all over. In fact I got a blue-black on my left sheen cos one of the skis struck it during another fall. And most amazing thing is that I got a blue-black on my left buttock too! So fleshy and yet can get blue-black. Unbelievable.
Decided to go back to Club 1 tomorrow.
Day 5
Just before Club 1 started, I ran into the Canadian instructor. He asked me why have I decided to go back to Club 1. I said I dont wanna fall today. And as I explained, I was so close to tears. Really, so discouraged and in pain actually.
Was really glad I went to Club 1 today. Got another Japanese instructor, a more matured one. Think the more matured instructors are better. More relaxing and they take the time to explain stuff.
I fell only once today. But it was among the bamboos. Got a bamboo in between my skis. Struggled to untangle and stand up. Then I heard a familiar voice to take off my skis. It was the Canadian instructor. Argh! It had to be him. And he named me the 'Bamboo Hunter' today. LOL.
But at least I got back my confidence today. I was no longer afraid of Chair Lift 2. And I was ready to go back to Club 2 tomorrow.
Day 6
Back @ Club 2. Guess who was the instructor? Yep, it was the Canadian instructor. Glad it was him actually. This was gonna be my final session as we were planning on a family ski-time after lunch.
Did much better today. Got up with much ease. Must have been all the practice from all the falls. =P
My dear instructor had to tell the class, at the exact spot, how I rose to 'fame'. It was all in good fun.
Family ski-time in the afternoon with the gals was really awesome. The gals are such strong ski-ers! They had wanted to go to Chair Lift 7. Goodness. Even hubby has not been that high. We said no cos we were not able to take care of ourselves, let alone if anything were to happen to the gals.
We went to Chair Lift 2, max. Then the gals wanted to ski down the wave slope. Goodness gracious. As I didnt wanna be a kill-joy, I went ahead. Totally had no idea what I was in for. Never been on that slope. Totally nerve-wrecking. And thank God, I reached the bottom of that wave slope in one piece, not a fall. =)
That's it.
All I can say now is I CAN SKI! =P
Went for Club Beginner today. Most tiring. Learnt how to do a 'snow plough' down a tiny gentle slope. Kept getting my skis crossed at their tips. Legs were not parted enough. Went on Chair Lift 1. Terrifying. Legs were begging me to stop skiing. Entire body aching at the end of the day.
Day 2
Got promoted to Club 1 today. Had a Japanese instructor. Didnt really could quite understand what he wants us to do due to some language barrier. Brought us up to Chair Lift 2 in the afternoon. Scared the s**ts out of me. Chair Lift 2 was so steep!
I lost count on the number of times I fell. One of which, I crashed into a tree. Geez. Think I expended most of my energies trying to get up from all my falls.
Super discouraged after today's session. Really wanted to stop skiing. But the thought of how much we have already spent in rental of the boots and skis, I cannot give up.
So I decided to repeat Club 1 tomorrow while hubby promotes to Club 2.
Day 3
Club 1 again today. Got a different instructor today, a Canadian guy. Felt a whole lot more confident today. Could actually say that I enjoyed myself!
Today is the day I rose to 'fame'. I crashed into my instructor. =P
And he went about harping on it the whole day, even at dinner time. But it was ok. Just laughed everything off. It was funny. I like him, his techniques, his straightforward-ness, his wit, his sense of humour.
And he promoted me to Club 2 tomorrow. That means I will be skiing with hubby tomorrow. =)
Day 4
Club 2 and Canadian instructor was brave enough to turn up for class today, despite knowing that I will be there. LOL.
But man, worst ski day ever.
One of the falls were so bad. It was on Chair Lift 2. Think I literally somersaulted down the slope. When I finally came to a stop, I realised that one of my skis was missing and it was about 3m up slope.
It was so painful retrieving that ski. To take off the other ski and climb uphill is not funny. And to put my skis back on on a slope is also not funny.
I really wanted to stop skiing. Body was aching all over. In fact I got a blue-black on my left sheen cos one of the skis struck it during another fall. And most amazing thing is that I got a blue-black on my left buttock too! So fleshy and yet can get blue-black. Unbelievable.
Decided to go back to Club 1 tomorrow.
Day 5
Just before Club 1 started, I ran into the Canadian instructor. He asked me why have I decided to go back to Club 1. I said I dont wanna fall today. And as I explained, I was so close to tears. Really, so discouraged and in pain actually.
Was really glad I went to Club 1 today. Got another Japanese instructor, a more matured one. Think the more matured instructors are better. More relaxing and they take the time to explain stuff.
I fell only once today. But it was among the bamboos. Got a bamboo in between my skis. Struggled to untangle and stand up. Then I heard a familiar voice to take off my skis. It was the Canadian instructor. Argh! It had to be him. And he named me the 'Bamboo Hunter' today. LOL.
But at least I got back my confidence today. I was no longer afraid of Chair Lift 2. And I was ready to go back to Club 2 tomorrow.
Day 6
Back @ Club 2. Guess who was the instructor? Yep, it was the Canadian instructor. Glad it was him actually. This was gonna be my final session as we were planning on a family ski-time after lunch.
Did much better today. Got up with much ease. Must have been all the practice from all the falls. =P
My dear instructor had to tell the class, at the exact spot, how I rose to 'fame'. It was all in good fun.
Family ski-time in the afternoon with the gals was really awesome. The gals are such strong ski-ers! They had wanted to go to Chair Lift 7. Goodness. Even hubby has not been that high. We said no cos we were not able to take care of ourselves, let alone if anything were to happen to the gals.
We went to Chair Lift 2, max. Then the gals wanted to ski down the wave slope. Goodness gracious. As I didnt wanna be a kill-joy, I went ahead. Totally had no idea what I was in for. Never been on that slope. Totally nerve-wrecking. And thank God, I reached the bottom of that wave slope in one piece, not a fall. =)
That's it.
All I can say now is I CAN SKI! =P
i can ski..!
We are back from our ski trip.
So much to blog about.
Really dont know where to begin.
Maybe I should post the 200+ photos on FB first.
All I can say is that skiing is HARD WORK!
BUT so FUN!
and the MOST important thing now is...
I CAN SKI..! =)
So much to blog about.
Really dont know where to begin.
Maybe I should post the 200+ photos on FB first.
All I can say is that skiing is HARD WORK!
BUT so FUN!
and the MOST important thing now is...
I CAN SKI..! =)
Tuesday 1 March 2011
no sweat
No tears, no flaring tempers, no sweat.
Homeschooling was smooth as butter today.
From 9-11am, Joanna did a composition and science. I was really surprised that she loved writing compositions! In fact, she was so enthusiastic about it. Made me so glad. =)
Rachelle covered some chinese and science.
Then I went for a lunch appointment while hubby got themselves a bento each from the nearby supermarket.
After lunch, they continued with 2 papers each.
Hope this continues... =)
Homeschooling was smooth as butter today.
From 9-11am, Joanna did a composition and science. I was really surprised that she loved writing compositions! In fact, she was so enthusiastic about it. Made me so glad. =)
Rachelle covered some chinese and science.
Then I went for a lunch appointment while hubby got themselves a bento each from the nearby supermarket.
After lunch, they continued with 2 papers each.
Hope this continues... =)
Monday 28 February 2011
homeschooling
I wouldnt say that we did homeschooling during this one year here in Japan. It was more like enrichment for the gals after they return each day from a full 6-7hrs in the public school here.
Only about a couple of hours each day, about 4 days a week.
Today's the last day of school for the gals in the public school. That means that we would be homeschooling more till we return home next month.
We are just very glad that we have less than a month of homeschooling to do. In fact, with all the trips and activities planned, we have less than 3 weeks for us to catch up as much as we can.
Glad because both the gals and I do not enjoy homeschooling.
For the gals, homeschooling is not fun. And I can understand why. In school, they have their classmates and friends. They dont need to know the answer to every question that the teacher asks. But back at home, they are the only student, and they had better know the answer to the teacher's questions. =P
I realise that not all the learning comes from the teacher in a school. A lot of peer teaching/learning takes place among the children. When they are at play, or at work.
But back at home, it's just me and them. And as their mother, I do have my expectations of them, to be able to understand quickly, to grasp concepts fast.
For me, I dont think homeschooling is my cup of tea.
I love the classroom but one on one is really not funny. Especially so when it is me versus the 2 of them, different levels some more. And I must confess, I do not have very much patience. At most I will repeat my teaching or instruction twice. And if they still dont get it by then, I lose it very fast. My bad. =(
Tomorrow we will be starting homeschool again.
The gals are anxious, so am I.
I shall be patient.
Only about a couple of hours each day, about 4 days a week.
Today's the last day of school for the gals in the public school. That means that we would be homeschooling more till we return home next month.
We are just very glad that we have less than a month of homeschooling to do. In fact, with all the trips and activities planned, we have less than 3 weeks for us to catch up as much as we can.
Glad because both the gals and I do not enjoy homeschooling.
For the gals, homeschooling is not fun. And I can understand why. In school, they have their classmates and friends. They dont need to know the answer to every question that the teacher asks. But back at home, they are the only student, and they had better know the answer to the teacher's questions. =P
I realise that not all the learning comes from the teacher in a school. A lot of peer teaching/learning takes place among the children. When they are at play, or at work.
But back at home, it's just me and them. And as their mother, I do have my expectations of them, to be able to understand quickly, to grasp concepts fast.
For me, I dont think homeschooling is my cup of tea.
I love the classroom but one on one is really not funny. Especially so when it is me versus the 2 of them, different levels some more. And I must confess, I do not have very much patience. At most I will repeat my teaching or instruction twice. And if they still dont get it by then, I lose it very fast. My bad. =(
Tomorrow we will be starting homeschool again.
The gals are anxious, so am I.
I shall be patient.
Thursday 24 February 2011
happy and sad
We received our ID's drawings for Rachelle's room this evening and it was beautiful. Rachelle was of course delighted, she totally loved it.
When Joanna saw the drawings, she got really upset. I guess it really hit home that there is no major change to her room.
Rachelle will be getting a new bed, a study table and wardrobe. Joanna just gets a new coat of paint cos the double-bunker in her room is also a huge study table, and she has a rather large wardrobe.
Oh wells, it was really no fun watching her cry. If hubby and I could help it, we would love to renovate both their rooms. We just dont have the budget for such a project now.
Hubby and I thought long and hard, thinking how we could at least cheer Joanna up a little.
Besides asking the ID to propose a more 'mature' colour theme for her walls, we are also planning to buy her a beanbag and a standing clothes hanger.
Hopefully she will feel a little better when we tell her our decision in the morning.
When Joanna saw the drawings, she got really upset. I guess it really hit home that there is no major change to her room.
Rachelle will be getting a new bed, a study table and wardrobe. Joanna just gets a new coat of paint cos the double-bunker in her room is also a huge study table, and she has a rather large wardrobe.
Oh wells, it was really no fun watching her cry. If hubby and I could help it, we would love to renovate both their rooms. We just dont have the budget for such a project now.
Hubby and I thought long and hard, thinking how we could at least cheer Joanna up a little.
Besides asking the ID to propose a more 'mature' colour theme for her walls, we are also planning to buy her a beanbag and a standing clothes hanger.
Hopefully she will feel a little better when we tell her our decision in the morning.
Wednesday 23 February 2011
now what?
Hand mixer has been shipped home.
That means no more baking unless I wanna build some muscles whisking.
Made a beanie hat for everyone.
That means no more knitting or crocheting for me.
Completed making 37 friendship bands.
That means we're ready to say goodbye to Dendo Elementary School next Monday.
And I am getting a little more restless each day.
I tried packing my wardrobe this afternoon. And after sorting and throwing out some stuff, I only managed to vacuum pack 1 medium sized bag.
Cant keep the winter clothes cos we are still needing them now and for the trip to Hokkaido.
Cant keep the autumn clothes cos we will need them after we return from Hokkaido till the day we leave for Singapore.
Cant pack my kitchen cos meals have to be prepared still.
So what now? =P
That means no more baking unless I wanna build some muscles whisking.
Made a beanie hat for everyone.
That means no more knitting or crocheting for me.
Completed making 37 friendship bands.
That means we're ready to say goodbye to Dendo Elementary School next Monday.
And I am getting a little more restless each day.
I tried packing my wardrobe this afternoon. And after sorting and throwing out some stuff, I only managed to vacuum pack 1 medium sized bag.
Cant keep the winter clothes cos we are still needing them now and for the trip to Hokkaido.
Cant keep the autumn clothes cos we will need them after we return from Hokkaido till the day we leave for Singapore.
Cant pack my kitchen cos meals have to be prepared still.
So what now? =P
Monday 21 February 2011
house sweet house
Gonna get back our house this weekend! =)
Tenants have written a sweet email to us, thanking us for the beautiful 14 months that they had spent in our house.
Cant wait to see the drawings and colours for the minor renovations that we are gonna to do. It's good to know that the house would be 'new' when we get back. =P
Tenants have written a sweet email to us, thanking us for the beautiful 14 months that they had spent in our house.
Cant wait to see the drawings and colours for the minor renovations that we are gonna to do. It's good to know that the house would be 'new' when we get back. =P
5 more weeks
Life is a little different now.
Groceries shopping is a little different now.
Routines have just been thrown out of the windows.
I am beginning to plan lunch and dinner menus by the week. Trying to clear as much stock as I can, especially those brought over from home.
No longer do I go for large bottles of soy sauce, mirin or sake. It's all small bottles now. No more bulk purchases.
In another week, the gals are gonna stop school. That means I am gonna have more time to home school them. It seems like a lot for us to catch up. But at least we keep going, the gap is just gonna get narrower. =P
Actually with so many activities and trips planned out for the next 5 weeks, there is really not much time for homeschooling. Thank God that Math for both gals are already up to date with the school, Science is almost there, halfway more for Chinese and as for English, there is no textbook, so I really dont know how much we have missed out.
Though hubby and I are stressed over the gals' school, we are also trying to make the best of the remaining time here in Japan.
We are just so looking forward to our snowboarding trip next week! =)
Groceries shopping is a little different now.
Routines have just been thrown out of the windows.
I am beginning to plan lunch and dinner menus by the week. Trying to clear as much stock as I can, especially those brought over from home.
No longer do I go for large bottles of soy sauce, mirin or sake. It's all small bottles now. No more bulk purchases.
In another week, the gals are gonna stop school. That means I am gonna have more time to home school them. It seems like a lot for us to catch up. But at least we keep going, the gap is just gonna get narrower. =P
Actually with so many activities and trips planned out for the next 5 weeks, there is really not much time for homeschooling. Thank God that Math for both gals are already up to date with the school, Science is almost there, halfway more for Chinese and as for English, there is no textbook, so I really dont know how much we have missed out.
Though hubby and I are stressed over the gals' school, we are also trying to make the best of the remaining time here in Japan.
We are just so looking forward to our snowboarding trip next week! =)
friendship bands
After 2 weeks of pulling and tugging at numerous threads, the 37 friendship bands are finally completed!
I thought they were rather easy to make so I made a suggestion to the gals, asked if they would like to give their friends something for them to remember their friendship by. Thank God only Joanna took the suggestion. =P
It was not funny making so many. I made about 10 on the first day, that's cos hubby was away on a study trip and I did nothing but knotted the whole day. Each band took about 40min of non-stop knotting.
But they were so pretty to look at. =)
34 regular bands are for her classmates, 3 special heart-designed ones are for her teachers. Hope they like it! =)
I thought they were rather easy to make so I made a suggestion to the gals, asked if they would like to give their friends something for them to remember their friendship by. Thank God only Joanna took the suggestion. =P
It was not funny making so many. I made about 10 on the first day, that's cos hubby was away on a study trip and I did nothing but knotted the whole day. Each band took about 40min of non-stop knotting.
But they were so pretty to look at. =)
34 regular bands are for her classmates, 3 special heart-designed ones are for her teachers. Hope they like it! =)
Sunday 20 February 2011
happening weekend
Friday
Hosted a dinner for 4 Japanese and 1 Korean at our tiny place. 2 of them had specially requested to taste Singapore's Chicken Rice. Hubby and I had a hard time deciding what the dinner menu should be. Cos another guest does not fancy red meat and we Chinese are such carnivores!
So after a couple days of thinking through, the dinner menu for that night was Chicken Rice, Bak Kut Teh, Asam Prawns, Glutinous Rice, Vegetarian Sweet and Sour Pork (made with gluten) and Salad.
I started preparing since about 9am. I had to. Cos I only have 1 claypot, 1 steel pot and a shallow frying pan. I literally had to plan what to cook or blanch first.
In the midst of cooking, hubby and I also changed our bedlinen. I even managed to wash 3 loads of wash!
Dinner was a huge success. Guests really enjoyed the spread. I also served a dessert, not made but just put together. Pudding with strawberries and a choc biscuit at the side. =)
I was so tired at the end of the day. But totally happy that our guests were satisfied and most importantly, they enjoyed the food. Almost everything was finished, except for a portion of Bak Kut Teh.
Saturday
It was a regular day at the gals' school. But they get the Monday off.
The school invited all parents to observe how our children study and interact in school. There was a special ceremony planned for the 4 Graders. 二分の一成人式{ni-bun-no-ichi-sei-jin-shiki}, which literally means half of coming of age ceremony.
Adulthood is when one turns 20 in Japan. So the 4 Graders are half an adult and a special ceremony was prepared for them.
Hubby and I swelled with pride when Rachelle made her speech in front of all the 4 Graders and parents, all in Japanese. I needed a translation from hubby after that. =P
Really think the gals love the education system here. So much fun, pace is so much slower. They have time to nurture the whole child, not just his brains.
This is really something we will definitely miss when we get back home.
Sunday
The children staying in the International house had come together to plan their own farewell party which was to be held tonight. And I had to make pizzas for them.
We went to Ginza in search of a toy that a friend has asked us to get, but to no avail, we will have to try another place. So the gals bought little gifts for their gift exchange for the party.
It was such a cold and cloudy day. As I did not have any ingredients for pizzas, I had to make a trip to the supermarket to buy some. So I made Japanese pizzas instead, I made お好み焼き{o-ko-no-mi-ya-ki}. Cos I have just enough ingredients for that. And I made really small ones, bite-sized ones.
It's good to hear that the children loved them and finished every piece that I had made. =)
Well, the end of yet another week. That leaves us with just 5 weeks to go. So fast, too fast, time is slipping too fast.
Another exciting week ahead starting with tmrw.
We're meeting Mariko-san to view a Hinamatsuri, an exhibition of dolls. It's Girls' Day on March 3rd, and households who have girls in their family would put up dolls dressed in kimono. This is to wish the girls good health and life. The dolls are promptly kept after March 3rd cos it is believed that if the family leaves the dolls out after March 3rd, the daughter will marry late.
Interesting.
Then it's off to Kidzania on Tuesday. Our final visit, this time with Korean friends.
Hokkaido trip is the following week! Looking forward! =)
Hosted a dinner for 4 Japanese and 1 Korean at our tiny place. 2 of them had specially requested to taste Singapore's Chicken Rice. Hubby and I had a hard time deciding what the dinner menu should be. Cos another guest does not fancy red meat and we Chinese are such carnivores!
So after a couple days of thinking through, the dinner menu for that night was Chicken Rice, Bak Kut Teh, Asam Prawns, Glutinous Rice, Vegetarian Sweet and Sour Pork (made with gluten) and Salad.
I started preparing since about 9am. I had to. Cos I only have 1 claypot, 1 steel pot and a shallow frying pan. I literally had to plan what to cook or blanch first.
In the midst of cooking, hubby and I also changed our bedlinen. I even managed to wash 3 loads of wash!
Dinner was a huge success. Guests really enjoyed the spread. I also served a dessert, not made but just put together. Pudding with strawberries and a choc biscuit at the side. =)
I was so tired at the end of the day. But totally happy that our guests were satisfied and most importantly, they enjoyed the food. Almost everything was finished, except for a portion of Bak Kut Teh.
Saturday
It was a regular day at the gals' school. But they get the Monday off.
The school invited all parents to observe how our children study and interact in school. There was a special ceremony planned for the 4 Graders. 二分の一成人式{ni-bun-no-ichi-sei-jin-shiki}, which literally means half of coming of age ceremony.
Adulthood is when one turns 20 in Japan. So the 4 Graders are half an adult and a special ceremony was prepared for them.
Hubby and I swelled with pride when Rachelle made her speech in front of all the 4 Graders and parents, all in Japanese. I needed a translation from hubby after that. =P
Really think the gals love the education system here. So much fun, pace is so much slower. They have time to nurture the whole child, not just his brains.
This is really something we will definitely miss when we get back home.
Sunday
The children staying in the International house had come together to plan their own farewell party which was to be held tonight. And I had to make pizzas for them.
We went to Ginza in search of a toy that a friend has asked us to get, but to no avail, we will have to try another place. So the gals bought little gifts for their gift exchange for the party.
It was such a cold and cloudy day. As I did not have any ingredients for pizzas, I had to make a trip to the supermarket to buy some. So I made Japanese pizzas instead, I made お好み焼き{o-ko-no-mi-ya-ki}. Cos I have just enough ingredients for that. And I made really small ones, bite-sized ones.
It's good to hear that the children loved them and finished every piece that I had made. =)
Well, the end of yet another week. That leaves us with just 5 weeks to go. So fast, too fast, time is slipping too fast.
Another exciting week ahead starting with tmrw.
We're meeting Mariko-san to view a Hinamatsuri, an exhibition of dolls. It's Girls' Day on March 3rd, and households who have girls in their family would put up dolls dressed in kimono. This is to wish the girls good health and life. The dolls are promptly kept after March 3rd cos it is believed that if the family leaves the dolls out after March 3rd, the daughter will marry late.
Interesting.
Then it's off to Kidzania on Tuesday. Our final visit, this time with Korean friends.
Hokkaido trip is the following week! Looking forward! =)
Tuesday 15 February 2011
beanie hats for all
After the recent trip to Yamanashi and experiencing all the snow and cold, we realised that the beanie hats that I made for hubbby and myself were still better than those bought. =P
The beanie hats were stretchable and large enough to cover the ears and they were quite good looking too.
With that, I am making the gals beanie hats for the upcoming trip to Hokkaido. =)
The beanie hats were stretchable and large enough to cover the ears and they were quite good looking too.
With that, I am making the gals beanie hats for the upcoming trip to Hokkaido. =)
packing
Started packing today. Thank God hubby is with me this time cos he is much better at this than I.
Already sealed 2 x 30kg boxes. Hoping to ship out at least 3 x 30kg boxes by this weekend.
Time seems to be on the Shinkansen. Moving too fast. We have just about 5.5 weeks left here.
Everyday hubby and I are talking about our transition back home, about the stuff that we need to buy for family and friends, about the dinners that we need to have before we leave and when we arrive home, our house and renovation, just so many things to talk about.
We have also been shopping! Requests from family and friends seem to have come in all at about this time. Requests for ceramic knives, ceramic knife sharpener, hot water flasks, phiten products, vitamins, detergent, toys and even a camera!
Besides shopping on behalf of others, we are also shopping for our house. New dish ware. =)
Our calendar seem to be filling up really fast too.
We have at least 3 more outings with our host family, hosting at least 2 more dinners at home, at least 2 parties, a 8-day snowboarding trip and a day-trip to Kamakura.
In between, we are just going about eating our favourite ramen from different places.
So exciting! =)
Already sealed 2 x 30kg boxes. Hoping to ship out at least 3 x 30kg boxes by this weekend.
Time seems to be on the Shinkansen. Moving too fast. We have just about 5.5 weeks left here.
Everyday hubby and I are talking about our transition back home, about the stuff that we need to buy for family and friends, about the dinners that we need to have before we leave and when we arrive home, our house and renovation, just so many things to talk about.
We have also been shopping! Requests from family and friends seem to have come in all at about this time. Requests for ceramic knives, ceramic knife sharpener, hot water flasks, phiten products, vitamins, detergent, toys and even a camera!
Besides shopping on behalf of others, we are also shopping for our house. New dish ware. =)
Our calendar seem to be filling up really fast too.
We have at least 3 more outings with our host family, hosting at least 2 more dinners at home, at least 2 parties, a 8-day snowboarding trip and a day-trip to Kamakura.
In between, we are just going about eating our favourite ramen from different places.
So exciting! =)
Monday 14 February 2011
a memorable weekend
Our host family invited us to their 2nd house in Yamanashi-ken over the last weekend. It was a long weekend as Friday was a public holiday here in Japan.
And what a memorable weekend we had.
SNOW
As we left Tokyo, it started to snow a little in the early morning. When we arrived in Yamanashi, it was already snowing lots! We were told that it snows an average of 4-5 days in Yamanashi during winter. The day we arrived at Yamanashi was the first day it snowed this winter.
The amount of snowfall for that day was reported to be equivalent to the 4-5 days of snow in the past years!
It began to lighten up on the 2nd day. Clear blue skies with the sun peeping through in the mid-afternoon.
Then it was all clear on the 3rd day. Lots of sun melting the almost 30cm deep snow on the ground and rooftops.
Weather was simply great for us to make our way home with our bags and luggage.
Ice Skating
We went ice skating for 3 consecutive days!
I have never succeeded learning to roller blade, let alone skate! It was my first time and boy was I nervous. But I must say that I pretty much surprised myself with my progress. =)
On the first day, I was super slow, inching my way on the 400m skating track. Fell less times than I had expected myself to fall. And all the time, I was alone. Not that no one wanted to skate beside me, but I cannot have anyone beside me. It was too stressful. I needed to learn on my own.
I was a little more confident on the 2nd day. Gliding a little more on the ice. It was a little too sunny for me and found that the snow was just too glaring.
Armed with a pair of sunglasses, we hit the ice again. I managed to skate one round in 5mins. There was once when I felt that I was doing so well, actually was enjoying skating, with the cold breeze in my face. Then I fell. LOL.
Gals totally loved being outdoors in the snow. They really enjoyed skating. =)
Onsen
We went to the onsen on the first night, after dinner. That night was super cold, icicles were forming even on the cars!
But this onsen was superb. There was an outdoor onsen. It was beautiful.
Made a dash from the door to the pool. Too cold. Then shiok-ness!! -3 degrees from neck up, about 43 degrees from neck down. AWESOME! =)
Our bodies were so warmed up that we actually perspired on a very cold winter night.
We are really blessed to have such a good host family. Their hospitality is truly impeccable.
At least 3 more appointments have been arranged with them. Including a thank-you outing with them. Planning to take them for another Cirque du Soliel show, followed by dinner at Disneysea and ending the night with the fireworks display at Disneysea.
And what a memorable weekend we had.
SNOW
As we left Tokyo, it started to snow a little in the early morning. When we arrived in Yamanashi, it was already snowing lots! We were told that it snows an average of 4-5 days in Yamanashi during winter. The day we arrived at Yamanashi was the first day it snowed this winter.
The amount of snowfall for that day was reported to be equivalent to the 4-5 days of snow in the past years!
It began to lighten up on the 2nd day. Clear blue skies with the sun peeping through in the mid-afternoon.
Then it was all clear on the 3rd day. Lots of sun melting the almost 30cm deep snow on the ground and rooftops.
Weather was simply great for us to make our way home with our bags and luggage.
Ice Skating
We went ice skating for 3 consecutive days!
I have never succeeded learning to roller blade, let alone skate! It was my first time and boy was I nervous. But I must say that I pretty much surprised myself with my progress. =)
On the first day, I was super slow, inching my way on the 400m skating track. Fell less times than I had expected myself to fall. And all the time, I was alone. Not that no one wanted to skate beside me, but I cannot have anyone beside me. It was too stressful. I needed to learn on my own.
I was a little more confident on the 2nd day. Gliding a little more on the ice. It was a little too sunny for me and found that the snow was just too glaring.
Armed with a pair of sunglasses, we hit the ice again. I managed to skate one round in 5mins. There was once when I felt that I was doing so well, actually was enjoying skating, with the cold breeze in my face. Then I fell. LOL.
Gals totally loved being outdoors in the snow. They really enjoyed skating. =)
Onsen
We went to the onsen on the first night, after dinner. That night was super cold, icicles were forming even on the cars!
But this onsen was superb. There was an outdoor onsen. It was beautiful.
Made a dash from the door to the pool. Too cold. Then shiok-ness!! -3 degrees from neck up, about 43 degrees from neck down. AWESOME! =)
Our bodies were so warmed up that we actually perspired on a very cold winter night.
We are really blessed to have such a good host family. Their hospitality is truly impeccable.
At least 3 more appointments have been arranged with them. Including a thank-you outing with them. Planning to take them for another Cirque du Soliel show, followed by dinner at Disneysea and ending the night with the fireworks display at Disneysea.
Wednesday 9 February 2011
炒米粉
Hubby returned today and we hosted dinner. I had planned to prepare a simple meal of fried bee hoon and chicken curry. So I searched the internet for fried bee hoon recipe.
2 days of searching and still I was not able to find what I like. So many of them say that one cannot go wrong with fried bee hoon cos it's just too simple to prepare.
I beg to differ.
There was just too much preparation involved. Soak the bee hoon. Saute all the ingredients separately. Fry a thin omelet. Prepare soy sauce mixture cos the bee hoon will really soak up lots of fluids. And it's not easy to get the bee hoon nice and browned evenly.
Thanks to one particular recipe that used a soy sauce mixture to soak the bee hoon instead of just plain tap water. The bee hoon came out nice and evenly coloured.
I have never fried bee hoon before. So having no recipe to follow, I felt so insecure, I actually prayed for success.
The bee hoon looked very good, if I say so myself. But hubby felt that it could be a tad saltier, which I too agreed.
To make me more 'kan cheong', the guys reached home earlier than expected! Thank God I started cooking much earlier and was actually ready by the time our guests arrived.
The evening started with some beer and nuts while I prepared some gyozas. Served the gyozas with a salad I had prepared in the afternoon. Heated up the curry.
Halfway through with the gyozas, I served the bee hoon and the curry.
Then we had apples. Followed by coffee.
We ate from 5.30pm to 9pm. Good fun. Great company.
Hubby washed all the dishes and pots after that.
Cos he said that I had slit my finger. =P
2 days of searching and still I was not able to find what I like. So many of them say that one cannot go wrong with fried bee hoon cos it's just too simple to prepare.
I beg to differ.
There was just too much preparation involved. Soak the bee hoon. Saute all the ingredients separately. Fry a thin omelet. Prepare soy sauce mixture cos the bee hoon will really soak up lots of fluids. And it's not easy to get the bee hoon nice and browned evenly.
Thanks to one particular recipe that used a soy sauce mixture to soak the bee hoon instead of just plain tap water. The bee hoon came out nice and evenly coloured.
I have never fried bee hoon before. So having no recipe to follow, I felt so insecure, I actually prayed for success.
The bee hoon looked very good, if I say so myself. But hubby felt that it could be a tad saltier, which I too agreed.
To make me more 'kan cheong', the guys reached home earlier than expected! Thank God I started cooking much earlier and was actually ready by the time our guests arrived.
The evening started with some beer and nuts while I prepared some gyozas. Served the gyozas with a salad I had prepared in the afternoon. Heated up the curry.
Halfway through with the gyozas, I served the bee hoon and the curry.
Then we had apples. Followed by coffee.
We ate from 5.30pm to 9pm. Good fun. Great company.
Hubby washed all the dishes and pots after that.
Cos he said that I had slit my finger. =P
Tuesday 8 February 2011
thirtynine
It was just a regular day for me. Hubby wont be back till tomorrow.
So what did I do on this special day?
I visited the supermarket, get groceries for dinner tomorrow. Hubby and I had invited his 2 other foreign classmates whose wives had gone back to their hometowns. Thought that it would be nice to host them for dinner before they went back home.
After the supermarket trip, brought Rachelle to the doctor's to have her knee checked. Still another trip to make next week. The doctors here like to make sure that you are fully recovered before they 'discharge' you.
Then the gals and I went for a nice steak and ribs dinner. =)
I am a huge fan of birthdays, anyone's birthday. I would make sure that there would at least be a cake and a birthday song.
But today, there was no cake. Oh wells.
Just as the day was coming to an end, my neighbour came over with a birthday cake! How sweet of her. She had baked me a birthday cake and flowers too!
So there. I had my cake after all. =)
At bedtime, I made the gals pray over me. And I was especially amused at Joanna's prayer.
'I pray that mommy will live a happy life and wont grow old so quickly.'
It must have been the grey hairs that she saw this afternoon.
Time to visit the hair salon. =P
So what did I do on this special day?
I visited the supermarket, get groceries for dinner tomorrow. Hubby and I had invited his 2 other foreign classmates whose wives had gone back to their hometowns. Thought that it would be nice to host them for dinner before they went back home.
After the supermarket trip, brought Rachelle to the doctor's to have her knee checked. Still another trip to make next week. The doctors here like to make sure that you are fully recovered before they 'discharge' you.
Then the gals and I went for a nice steak and ribs dinner. =)
I am a huge fan of birthdays, anyone's birthday. I would make sure that there would at least be a cake and a birthday song.
But today, there was no cake. Oh wells.
Just as the day was coming to an end, my neighbour came over with a birthday cake! How sweet of her. She had baked me a birthday cake and flowers too!
So there. I had my cake after all. =)
At bedtime, I made the gals pray over me. And I was especially amused at Joanna's prayer.
'I pray that mommy will live a happy life and wont grow old so quickly.'
It must have been the grey hairs that she saw this afternoon.
Time to visit the hair salon. =P
Friday 4 February 2011
over-priced dinner
Since it was the first day of CNY, we decided to have non-Japanese food, we settled for Singaporean food. I was really looking forward to dinner. But I guess my expectations were not met.
My conclusion: There is NO Singaporean food in Japan.
Nothing comes quite as close.
These were what we ordered.
One chicken.
Half white, half fried. The fried half was a huge disappointment. It was more like a piece of chicken cutlet. And there was definitely not a whole bird there.
Buttered prawns.
When the dish was served, it looked like our cereal prawns back at home. It looked yummy till the taste test. Tasted too much of coconut, I dont know why. There were only 5-6 prawns.
Black carrot cake.
Major disappointing. Cake was too starchy. Not fragrant.
Hokkien mee.
Looked really good, promising. But I felt that it had too strong a fishy smell to it.
Char siew, Shio bak and Shio ak platter.
Portions were miserable. The amount for each type of meat was about what you would find on a regular plate of char siew rice in Singapore.
And all of the above cost 9,000yen, which works out to be about $140.
We all agreed that the chicken rice that I made some time back was much yummier than what we had. Dont think we are gonna eat there again.
My conclusion: There is NO Singaporean food in Japan.
Nothing comes quite as close.
These were what we ordered.
One chicken.
Half white, half fried. The fried half was a huge disappointment. It was more like a piece of chicken cutlet. And there was definitely not a whole bird there.
Buttered prawns.
When the dish was served, it looked like our cereal prawns back at home. It looked yummy till the taste test. Tasted too much of coconut, I dont know why. There were only 5-6 prawns.
Black carrot cake.
Major disappointing. Cake was too starchy. Not fragrant.
Hokkien mee.
Looked really good, promising. But I felt that it had too strong a fishy smell to it.
Char siew, Shio bak and Shio ak platter.
Portions were miserable. The amount for each type of meat was about what you would find on a regular plate of char siew rice in Singapore.
And all of the above cost 9,000yen, which works out to be about $140.
We all agreed that the chicken rice that I made some time back was much yummier than what we had. Dont think we are gonna eat there again.
Thursday 3 February 2011
农厉新年 2011
Today is 大年初一 and I am all alone at home. Gals have gone to school, so has hubby. It has never been so quiet on the first day of CNY for me. Feels kinda strange.
Japanese do not celebrate the lunar new year. Their celebrations are on new year's day itself, the first of january. Today is a regular working day here in Japan.
It was easy waking the gals up this morning. Hubby and I entered their room. "新年快乐！万事如意！身体健康！年年有余！谁要红包就给我起来！" And both gals sat up on their beds. =)
They said their greetings to us and we gave them their red packets. These are the only ones they will be getting this year. Very precious to them. =P
Though hubby has gone to school, he will be back before 11am and we would go out. Kitchen is closed from today till the day he leaves for Hokkaido on Monday. =)
Being CNY, we thought we'd have a nice dinner. So we would be going to the Singapore restaurant nearby for dinner tonight. Really looking forward, but doubt that they will have yusheng there. I am so missing yusheng right now.
Yusheng is the highlight for me every CNY. Especially the one together with my grandma on 年初二. That's when we get together to 开年 at my aunt's place. The yusheng there is interesting. There are so many of us that we use a large pan for the yusheng. And we have to do it twice. The above 50yo will lohei first, then followed by the below 50yo. And it is always so much fun, and mess!
Anyways, then tomorrow hubby is taking all of us to a nice dinner to celebrate my birthday in advance. He will be in Hokkaido on that day.
Then the weekends we have planned to go to Chinatown @ Yokohama to soak in the CNY atmosphere. The only thing I am afraid of is the crowd. But thought that it might be a waste if we dont go and experience the celebrations there for ourselves.
So there. This is our CNY for 2011.
Have a healthy and blessed lunar new year everyone! =)
Japanese do not celebrate the lunar new year. Their celebrations are on new year's day itself, the first of january. Today is a regular working day here in Japan.
It was easy waking the gals up this morning. Hubby and I entered their room. "新年快乐！万事如意！身体健康！年年有余！谁要红包就给我起来！" And both gals sat up on their beds. =)
They said their greetings to us and we gave them their red packets. These are the only ones they will be getting this year. Very precious to them. =P
Though hubby has gone to school, he will be back before 11am and we would go out. Kitchen is closed from today till the day he leaves for Hokkaido on Monday. =)
Being CNY, we thought we'd have a nice dinner. So we would be going to the Singapore restaurant nearby for dinner tonight. Really looking forward, but doubt that they will have yusheng there. I am so missing yusheng right now.
Yusheng is the highlight for me every CNY. Especially the one together with my grandma on 年初二. That's when we get together to 开年 at my aunt's place. The yusheng there is interesting. There are so many of us that we use a large pan for the yusheng. And we have to do it twice. The above 50yo will lohei first, then followed by the below 50yo. And it is always so much fun, and mess!
Anyways, then tomorrow hubby is taking all of us to a nice dinner to celebrate my birthday in advance. He will be in Hokkaido on that day.
Then the weekends we have planned to go to Chinatown @ Yokohama to soak in the CNY atmosphere. The only thing I am afraid of is the crowd. But thought that it might be a waste if we dont go and experience the celebrations there for ourselves.
So there. This is our CNY for 2011.
Have a healthy and blessed lunar new year everyone! =)
Wednesday 2 February 2011
more tarts
The previous batch of pineapple tarts were so good that it gave me the courage to try again. And it so happened that the canned pineapples were on offer too! =)
Being braver, I decided to make smaller ones and shaped them into balls. Topped each one of them with a little cheese too. I was actually trying to replicate those that I had bought from HG central last year.
It was all fun till I took the pineapple filling out from the fridge. I then realised that I had cooked them too long this time. They were a tad too dry and became hard very quickly. I quickly added some water and steamed it for a bit. And continued with the process. Put them into the oven and hoped for the best.
Being braver, I decided to make smaller ones and shaped them into balls. Topped each one of them with a little cheese too. I was actually trying to replicate those that I had bought from HG central last year.
It was all fun till I took the pineapple filling out from the fridge. I then realised that I had cooked them too long this time. They were a tad too dry and became hard very quickly. I quickly added some water and steamed it for a bit. And continued with the process. Put them into the oven and hoped for the best.
They looked ok after about 30min in the oven. After they had cooled a bit, it was time for the taste test. It tasted great and I was so happy.
When Joanna came back from school and tried one, she said that it was too hard. Then I took one. Yes, the filling became harder after it was cooled. Much like those biscuits with the pineapple jam in between, the sticky, chewy type which they sell in large tins at coffee stalls.
But the taste was still ok, with a cup of hot tea, it was still good. =)
Now I am thinking if I should keep this as a tradition. To bake pineapple tarts for CNY every year. =P
Blessed Lunar New Year to you! =)
Tuesday 1 February 2011
rachelle
For the past 2 weeks she has been limping. When we asked her what happened to her leg, she answer was either 'I dont know' or 'never mind la'.
This morning, after leaving the house for school, she came back home 5 minutes later. She said that her left knee hurt badly and cant go to school.
Hubby and I sat her down and asked her to recall what had happened to that knee. After much tracing back of the events and the days, she said that it could be during PE lesson some 2 weeks ago.
They were playing baseball. Her friend, after batting, had swung the bat off his hand. The handle of the bat struck Rachelle's knee. It hurt for that moment but for the rest of the day while she was seated in class, there was no pain. So she didnt think much of it.
For the past 2 weeks, she just couldnt make that connection, that the pain in her knee was caused by the bat hitting it. Strange. Hubby and I just found it so hard to understand.
Anyways, hubby brought her to the doctor and found out that it could be a strain or a tear in the ligament. Large pieces of salonpas were given and some medication for inflammation.
When she got home, she got bored. So she kept herself busy with some craft work. Then she sliced her finger with a brand new pen knife.
The penknife was so sharp that a small piece of flesh was almost completed sliced off from her left pointer finger. I had to add pressure to it for a long time before the bleeding eventually stopped. All the time, Rachelle did not feel pain.
I am amazed at the high threshold for pain this gal has.
Just now at bedtime, she thanked God that she didnt go to school but walked back home instead this morning. So that she could go to the doc to seek treatment. And also asked for a speedy recovery so that she can start playing again.
That's right.
Give thanks in ALL circumstances! =)
This morning, after leaving the house for school, she came back home 5 minutes later. She said that her left knee hurt badly and cant go to school.
Hubby and I sat her down and asked her to recall what had happened to that knee. After much tracing back of the events and the days, she said that it could be during PE lesson some 2 weeks ago.
They were playing baseball. Her friend, after batting, had swung the bat off his hand. The handle of the bat struck Rachelle's knee. It hurt for that moment but for the rest of the day while she was seated in class, there was no pain. So she didnt think much of it.
For the past 2 weeks, she just couldnt make that connection, that the pain in her knee was caused by the bat hitting it. Strange. Hubby and I just found it so hard to understand.
Anyways, hubby brought her to the doctor and found out that it could be a strain or a tear in the ligament. Large pieces of salonpas were given and some medication for inflammation.
When she got home, she got bored. So she kept herself busy with some craft work. Then she sliced her finger with a brand new pen knife.
The penknife was so sharp that a small piece of flesh was almost completed sliced off from her left pointer finger. I had to add pressure to it for a long time before the bleeding eventually stopped. All the time, Rachelle did not feel pain.
I am amazed at the high threshold for pain this gal has.
Just now at bedtime, she thanked God that she didnt go to school but walked back home instead this morning. So that she could go to the doc to seek treatment. And also asked for a speedy recovery so that she can start playing again.
That's right.
Give thanks in ALL circumstances! =)
roti john
Hubby and I were walking along the street when I spotted a man carrying a bagful of baguettes. And almost immediately, roti john came to my mind. I asked if hubby would like to eat roti john. He said ok and off we went to get ourselves a french loaf.
Chose the most easy recipe that I could find on the internet.
So with just a handful of minced meat, a large onion, 3 eggs and 2 french loaves, and in 10 minutes, we had roti john for tea this afternoon! And it was so good!
The sauce was really nice too, very authentic. All it took were some chilli sauce, ketchup, sugar and water.
Love this so much. Think gonna do this more often too. =)
Chose the most easy recipe that I could find on the internet.
So with just a handful of minced meat, a large onion, 3 eggs and 2 french loaves, and in 10 minutes, we had roti john for tea this afternoon! And it was so good!
The sauce was really nice too, very authentic. All it took were some chilli sauce, ketchup, sugar and water.Love this so much. Think gonna do this more often too. =)
Monday 31 January 2011
last day of january
Time flies. It'll be February tomorrow. That means we'd be home in just about 2 months.
So are we excited?
Well, kinda.
Family and church make me wanna be home.
I miss the boys. I miss watching them grow up, learn new stuff. I miss going out after church with family. I miss celebrating all their birthdays. I miss extended mealtimes with family, especially now that CNY is just around the corner.
I miss my church. Attending church here is just different. Yes, same God, but the church is different. We literally have to drag ourselves to church every Sunday. And if we succeed in dragging ourselves there, we're off once the service is over. No connection. No friends.
The Singapore education system is the only thing we are not looking forward to going back to. The stress levels. The expectations. The exams, spellings, tests and projects.
It seems like just yesterday we unpacked our boxes. And it's just about time for us to be packing our boxes again.
I know these 8 weeks are just gone zoom by. But we are definitely gonna make the best of whatever days left here.
Another thing I know is that I may not have that much time to cook and bake when I get back. That's why I have been baking and knitting/crocheting so much lately.
It's gonna be an awesome 2 months! =)
So are we excited?
Well, kinda.
Family and church make me wanna be home.
I miss the boys. I miss watching them grow up, learn new stuff. I miss going out after church with family. I miss celebrating all their birthdays. I miss extended mealtimes with family, especially now that CNY is just around the corner.
I miss my church. Attending church here is just different. Yes, same God, but the church is different. We literally have to drag ourselves to church every Sunday. And if we succeed in dragging ourselves there, we're off once the service is over. No connection. No friends.
The Singapore education system is the only thing we are not looking forward to going back to. The stress levels. The expectations. The exams, spellings, tests and projects.
It seems like just yesterday we unpacked our boxes. And it's just about time for us to be packing our boxes again.
I know these 8 weeks are just gone zoom by. But we are definitely gonna make the best of whatever days left here.
Another thing I know is that I may not have that much time to cook and bake when I get back. That's why I have been baking and knitting/crocheting so much lately.
It's gonna be an awesome 2 months! =)
Sunday 30 January 2011
snow
After much anticipation, it finally snowed this afternoon!
It was very cold the day before, thought that it would snow. But the sun came out just before noon, and no signs of snow.
Continued to be chilly today.
Gals and I went out for a short while and were back about 2pm. Then gals decided to play outside while I vacuumed the floor.
While vacuuming, I faintly heard some shouting. Switched off the machine and realised that Rachelle was yelling for me from downstairs.
When I reached the veranda, she was no longer there. Then I noticed some stuff floating in the air. Reminded me of 7th month festivities, the ashes flying everywhere. So I quickly entered the house and shut the windows, worried that they will fly into the house and dirty my newly vacuumed floors.
Then I thought to myself, no burning of incense here what? How can that be ashes? Then it dawned upon me that it was actually snow!
I went out again, and yes, indeed it was snowing! =)
Quickly went downstairs to join the gals. It was freezing, but it was so fun standing in the snow.
It snowed for just about an hour before the sun shone through the clouds again, and melted whatever little snowfall there was.
A pretty sight! =)
It was very cold the day before, thought that it would snow. But the sun came out just before noon, and no signs of snow.
Continued to be chilly today.
Gals and I went out for a short while and were back about 2pm. Then gals decided to play outside while I vacuumed the floor.
While vacuuming, I faintly heard some shouting. Switched off the machine and realised that Rachelle was yelling for me from downstairs.
When I reached the veranda, she was no longer there. Then I noticed some stuff floating in the air. Reminded me of 7th month festivities, the ashes flying everywhere. So I quickly entered the house and shut the windows, worried that they will fly into the house and dirty my newly vacuumed floors.
Then I thought to myself, no burning of incense here what? How can that be ashes? Then it dawned upon me that it was actually snow!
I went out again, and yes, indeed it was snowing! =)
Quickly went downstairs to join the gals. It was freezing, but it was so fun standing in the snow.
It snowed for just about an hour before the sun shone through the clouds again, and melted whatever little snowfall there was.
A pretty sight! =)
Friday 28 January 2011
pineapple tarts
Browsing foodblogs is my latest hobby for now. So as I was browsing last night, I remembered I had once tagged a recipe for pineapple tarts as one of my favourite webpages.
The more I compared that recipe with a few others, the one I had really looked easy and do-able. But still, dared not try as I have heard how tedious it is to make pineapple tarts from scratch.
This morning, I found the passion to want to bake them! I mean, already there is no CNY mood here, let's make some pineapple tarts! What is CNY without them! And I love those with the filling on the iside ones, rather than those sitting on the pastry type.
So I layered myself up (yes, it was a really cold day today, 3 layers at least), and marched to the nearest supermarket. Actually not too sure if I was able to find the ingredients that the recipe calls for.
I was most happy to find all that I needed at the supermarket. Even though a usual can of pineapples would cost a third of the price back home.
As I walked home, I was already thinking how I should be blogging about this. i was really so excited about this. I was so determined to make this work. =P
Borrowed a food processor from my neighbour and bravely, I started baking!
Actually, the most daunting part of making these tarts is preparing the pineapple filling. These are readily available in Singapore. The recipe cheated, and used canned pineapples instead of fresh ones for the filling. And it was super easy! Just canned pineapples and sugar! Not only did it turn out perfect, it tasted great too!
While I let the filling cool, I started to make the pastry dough. I was surprised how easy and nice the dough turned out to be. Very mellable and yet did not stick to the hand.
The recipe states that it would yield 24 tarts. But I thought it was too big and I wanted more tarts so that I dont have to do this again. So, with Joanna's help, we divided the dough and filling into 30 portions.
Joanna was quite good at shaping the tarts and she managed to do 7. Not too bad I thought. And she helped glaze the tarts with egg yolk just before we put them into the oven.
Really had no idea how the tarts were gonna turn out.
After about 30min, the house was smelling so nice and it was time to take them out from the oven.
I was so impressed with how they looked, nice and lightly browned. =)
Then there was the taste test. Joanna and I shared one, and it was awesome! Wished we could eat more but too precious. After tasting one, that means we only have 29 left. And we have another 6 more days to CNY. =P
The pastry was so crumbly, firm enough to be held. Once in the mouth, it seems to melt! Even hubby said it is nice, and he is not a fan of pineapple tarts.
Happy. =)
The more I compared that recipe with a few others, the one I had really looked easy and do-able. But still, dared not try as I have heard how tedious it is to make pineapple tarts from scratch.
This morning, I found the passion to want to bake them! I mean, already there is no CNY mood here, let's make some pineapple tarts! What is CNY without them! And I love those with the filling on the iside ones, rather than those sitting on the pastry type.
So I layered myself up (yes, it was a really cold day today, 3 layers at least), and marched to the nearest supermarket. Actually not too sure if I was able to find the ingredients that the recipe calls for.
I was most happy to find all that I needed at the supermarket. Even though a usual can of pineapples would cost a third of the price back home.
As I walked home, I was already thinking how I should be blogging about this. i was really so excited about this. I was so determined to make this work. =P
Borrowed a food processor from my neighbour and bravely, I started baking!
Actually, the most daunting part of making these tarts is preparing the pineapple filling. These are readily available in Singapore. The recipe cheated, and used canned pineapples instead of fresh ones for the filling. And it was super easy! Just canned pineapples and sugar! Not only did it turn out perfect, it tasted great too!
While I let the filling cool, I started to make the pastry dough. I was surprised how easy and nice the dough turned out to be. Very mellable and yet did not stick to the hand.
The recipe states that it would yield 24 tarts. But I thought it was too big and I wanted more tarts so that I dont have to do this again. So, with Joanna's help, we divided the dough and filling into 30 portions.
Joanna was quite good at shaping the tarts and she managed to do 7. Not too bad I thought. And she helped glaze the tarts with egg yolk just before we put them into the oven.
Really had no idea how the tarts were gonna turn out.
After about 30min, the house was smelling so nice and it was time to take them out from the oven.
I was so impressed with how they looked, nice and lightly browned. =)
Then there was the taste test. Joanna and I shared one, and it was awesome! Wished we could eat more but too precious. After tasting one, that means we only have 29 left. And we have another 6 more days to CNY. =P
The pastry was so crumbly, firm enough to be held. Once in the mouth, it seems to melt! Even hubby said it is nice, and he is not a fan of pineapple tarts.
Happy. =)
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