Integrity United

Happy Chinese New Year!

2012-01-20T00:09:00.002+08:00

I'm still in the education industry. Just wondering what and where all of you are pursuing aspects of life at this stage. Hope all are keeping well and happy! Can't believe it, but it's going to be another new Lunar New Year. We're all getting older, but not necessary more jaded, I hope! :)

To another year of well-lived life! Cheers!

Nightingales

2011-06-10T10:28:00.002+08:00

My mother was hospitalised again recently, and my encounters with nurses, doctors and health caregivers once again affirmed my view that these individuals really make or break patients' road to recovery. If I had not taken the road to teaching, I think that I might have pursued nursing. The vocation might involve lots of ubpleasant physical tasks, . . . but think of all the opportunities you have to bring comfort, ease anxieties and uplift spirits.

School's out

2011-03-14T16:49:00.002+08:00

Ten weeks of the school term went by relatively okay. Students are getting more trying and hyper, I reckon, thanks to the new-age instant info-overload and weird food they are ingesting these days. SIGH! This dinosaur here is feeling kind of tired more easily. Yes, tired BUT not out yet!! Thank God for the one-week break! And I guess, if you look at things from a positive perspective, meeting challenges constructively does keep one on-the-toes and renewed. Hmm . . . however when things get a trifling frustrating, I do wonder if indeed the world were to end in 2010, what would all our rat-race and frenetic chasing of largely material pursuits amount to. . . Japan's big earthquake and tsunami did make me wonder if I am ready to 'go' without any regrets when my time comes. What about you?

Gong Xi Fa Cai!

2011-01-29T11:45:00.002+08:00

Happy New Year everyone! May you have a super-fabulicious year ahead at your poly, uni, the army or whatever! Economy's looking up, so go work on your quality of life, relationships, leisure, now that settling problems with the basics of living is out of the way. Haha! Pardon my being hyper. The full workload of a new academic year is thankfully right now kicking in at a still tolerable pace.

I read the good news about the Singapore employment scene this year: jobs chasing after people, especially in the service sector! Good for us job-seekers, but I guess bad news for the tow-kays out there! Pray for a win-win situation for all, and that the economic melt-down that we all went throught just a while ago will not be repeated any time ever.

So, Dong Xi FaCai, all! May you be happy, healthy and hearty in the Year of the Rabbit!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-20T17:34:00.002+08:00

Merry Christmas to you all! Here's wishing you all a most joyous time of the year with loved ones, partaking in worthwhile pursuits together that will add to quality in your lives! I just received my best present this season -- a clean bill of health from my doctor after a most depressing phase. This calls for much thanksgiving and rejoicing!

And you think you want to act

2010-12-13T09:50:00.002+08:00

Whew! Two whole days of takes under the hot sun at a playground and then in an apartment. And at least one more day of shooting to make up for lost sunshine hours and rainy weather --- all towards a mere 5-minute film showing! Now, I'm going to look at movies - good, mediocre and bad - with a different eye! No joke. Acting, directing, cinematography, scripting and all are tough work!! But being involved in the daughter's coursework was fun, and I get to interact with young minds. Having the sons and other daughter as fellow actors/actresses/calafares made for unusual but good bonding time.

Mum's day out

2010-11-20T23:41:00.002+08:00

Brought my mother out to get her hair cut and permed today. One of those mother-daughter moment that I enjoy very much. At my age, she still treats me like her precious kid daughter. And I do so appreciate her!

December's here again. That time of the year with plenty of festivities in the air. School's out and exams over. WOOT! Go have some wicked family time, people!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Mummy

2010-10-27T23:06:00.002+08:00

Happiness is having your mum pamper you when you need to burn the midnight oil for exams and projects. Lucky are those who have mums reminding them to wake up in time to take exams that they have prepared forever for! Well today, one unlucky or sotong one forgot to rise in time for his Maths 'O'level Paper 2!

Change your hair colour!

2010-09-07T14:30:00.002+08:00

If you think that I was cruel to you turning up at your Prom as a butterfly, you would slap your head a zillion times if you had seen what I was during this year's Teacher's Day dinner at my current school ---- I was Katty Perry!! Yes, complete with pink hair, cute hair band, candy necklace, pouff candy-inpired print outfit, leggings, California Girl colourful nails and giant lollipop! It was the Hungry Ghost month and I had to drive through Geylang Road to the dinner venue. Wuahahaaaa! You should have seen the turned heads and quizzical looks! I looked like an down-the-hill getai wannabe and Geylang Lorong "merchandise"! My kids did not mince their words: they thought that I looked more like the "substitutes" at Desker Road! As for me, I had loads of fun. It was MY day after all!!

7th Month

2010-08-16T21:23:00.002+08:00

7th Month. Gets me thinking what my late Dad would have thought of the way his children and loved ones have turned out all these years while he was gone. You know, when I was a young, I used to wonder how I would have use for all the love that my dad showered me. Later on in life and even now, I fully appreciate the mileage that tender loving care and unconditional love give. It forms a very secure and huge reserve that I draw on for all the pit stops I need make along life's way.

Boeing, boeing . . .

2010-08-09T11:03:00.002+08:00

Watched the local play, "Boeing, Boeing" directed by our very own Glen Goei, with my very nice sisters just a few evenings ago. Hilarious script and just-nice story line to lighten up an evening after work. I was tickled by the portrayal of Singapore Girls as sharp-tongued, practical and non-too-demure females, contrasted sharply with the Japanese specimens. Then there was the animated Hong Kong female variety. Haha... you all should catch it someday when it is staged again!

Ms Q

2010-07-11T22:46:00.002+08:00

Hahahaaaa! "Taxi drivers say that if they see Ms Q flagging for a cab, they are not going to stop." Scary, siaz . . .

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-03T11:01:00.002+08:00

Not that any of you are mothers yet. But Happy Mother's Day to all your mothers and I wish you a nice respite from your work and studies so that you could have a nice meal or time with your families this week!

Wow, my last post was like eons ago. Too caught up with life elswhere from HIHS. But no, you are not out of mind! Sometimes when I teach my lot at my current school, I do share with my students about you all --- that there are nice students out there who make it a point to have a life out of school and have hearts for beyond rat-race goals. In other words, I miss you all every now and then! Haha!

I am presently enjoying a heavenly long weekend before the onslaught of the mid-year exam markings. I find that age is catching up with me, and it takes so much less to tire me out these days.But I have been a good girl (as usual!!) --- not letting age be an excuse not to give the things I undertake my utmost best effort! Erhem . . .! I must mention that I even manage to squeeze in some exercise time to destress. Quite proud of myself. I have the old folks at the gym that I am working out at to thank: how they manage to pound away at the treadmills, lift weights and persevere at no-joke workouts just put me in perpective or on my want-to-give-up days, shame me into putting on my exercise shoes! Nothing like good role models!

Then this Mother's Day, I had a wonderful makan cooked up by a wonderful man for all the mothers in the family. Times like these remind me that life is good.

An inconvenient certainty

2010-01-07T20:25:00.003+08:00

How do you deal with someone who knows that he is inflicted with some irreversible medical condition and soon will be losing the use of one of his senses? As if it is not enough, things are also messy on the financial and relationship fronts. SIGH! And some of us are still griping about piling homework and backdated mobile phone models!

Faithful Friends

2009-12-25T22:50:00.002+08:00

Today, the kids and I partied with old friends who go back 13 years when the little ones danced ballet together as 4 year-olds. Although we meet like only a couple of times a year, we have faithfully kept in touch over happy and sad occasions and remembered one another during important events. One family among us in particular has diligently initiated gatherings of sorts to encourage the much appreciated fellowhip over the years. The rest of us made time to meet no matter how busy we are. When you have friends like these, you feel so blessed. The children and adults see how frendship can withstand the test of time and I think that this kind of affirmation anchors one so much in our largely very volatile life.

I had a very Merry Christmas today. Hope that you all had a good time today too. Best wishes for the New Year!

2009-12-25T21:46:00.003+08:00

MERRY XMAS GUYS.
AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR.
-view

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-21T10:16:00.004+08:00

Merry Christmas one and all! Here's wishing you a wonderful holiday season what with Christmas, New Year's Day and Chinese New Year (and Valentine's Day on the same day!) all so close to one another. I also wish you all a meaningful time of being together with loved ones to reflect on life on the year that will soon past and the year that looms ahead. Read in the papers about the Christmas wish that was reportedly made by a less privileged member of our community? All this homemaker wants is a saucepan so that she might cook with it!! So what kind of people are we to look upon with disdain simple presents given to us and haggling for expensive ones?

Do think about the more important things in life and let's prioritise our goals sensibly.

Smitten

2009-12-14T19:45:00.003+08:00

Tell you a funny thing: one of my growing up male offspring said that two pretty Korean girls waved to him not once, but twice at their international school when he was there for a basketball match. What do you make of it? I was cruel, I said that they probably had the sun in their eyes and waved to him against their better judgements. Or maybe they were just elated to meet another one of their single-eyelid kind. Hahaaaaa! The things teenagers get so easily smitten with . . .

The Human Factor

2009-12-11T20:40:00.004+08:00

My Mum's hospitalised again. So counting the almost back-to-back 2 other medical episodes in the family, I've been spending most of the past 3 weeks in 3 different hospitals in Singapore. As usual, I continue to be amazed by the behaviour of people at hospitals. This time, I observed that some people are just cut out to be doctors and others nurses, physiotherapists etc. They just have that sunshine personality and patience that lift the spirits of even the most pessimistic and difficult of patients. There are of course the glum doctors who are real turn-offs. Bad hair-days only, I hope! My top praises are saved for the nurses, who God bless them, ever so cheerfully fetch and empty bed-pans, change dirty adult diapers, tend to very sick patients and yet find it within them to wear smiles on their faces. So listen up, you nurses of Integrity 2008: your noble vocation is hereby acknowledged and given credit for!! Then I also noticed the dynamics of kith and kin in action at hospital bedsides. You have no idea how touching it is to see 50 to 60 year-old children tending to their sick parents ---- feeding them, massaging them, caressing and hugging them even when their loved ones are clearly in semi-comatose, heavily sedated or very advanced in their ailments. Some children were clearly not on speaking terms with one another, but thankfully these few days, the ones I saw in Mum's wards are still very loving to their sick parents. Finally, of course I have to mention the good-looking medical personnel who feature in my hospital episodes. Today, a hunkidory of a very young and handsome physiotherapist tended to Mum, explaining to her all the light exercises that she ought to embark on upon discharge from the hospital. SIGHHHHH . . . . so many handsome young men. . . . so little of the youth left in me!!!!

Touch wood. Looking forward to Mum's speedy recovery! Will see to the young one's textbooks next week and then it's Merry Christmas! The 2 holiday-working ones have been chosen to foot a buffet treat for all in the family! I am looking forward to pay-back time. Hahahaaaaaaa!

Skin

2009-12-08T22:50:00.002+08:00

No, no, not anything related to Roald Dahl's "Skin". Haha! Finally got round to getting our IntegrityUnited blog a new skin! Why the pier? Well . . . firstly, the pic's nice and secondly, the life buoys kinda symbolise what I want each and everyone of you to be --- life-savers in your own special ways! Neat huh?

Now, how about some updates, everyone?

I'll start. Academic year 2009 has been a whole new learning experience for me. Tiring but kept me on my toes mentally (digits and brains?! Get it??) And I've decided to renew my contract for another year at the same school. At the family front, changes are unfolding at rapid pace. I guess I should be thankful that generally life has been relatively kind to me. There was one prom night that had to be seen to on a grand scale, and then a couple of my 6 took vacation jobs this hols while one did well enough to pay her way through school for 2010. There were 2 who had hospital (again!) experiences within 3 weeks of each other. In between all the medical emergencies, chauffering and waiting up past 2 a.m for the part-time holiday workers, and minding the remaining wild and restless younger ones, I managed to catch up on watching movies and reading books. Most amazing of all, I found time to re-visit the gym. I have lost 900 grammes so far. I know, pathetic amount, but hey it's a start!! The old foggies there are still plodding conscientiously at their routines and of course everyone remembers me as the delinquent and absent one! I also found time to take the 6 to the beach to fly kites, jog, work our cameras, and just have fun. School books and academic work can wait!

What about you all? Blog!

Ms Q

Class Chalet

2009-09-28T16:08:00.000+08:00

Hello, Class chalet details are comfirmed.
Date is 6 - 9 october.
More details coming up.
-view

Stoicalness

2009-09-09T10:44:00.001+08:00

If you ever visit the Bedok Hawker centre at Block 57, Upper Changi Road, you must patronise the Siglap Road Fried Carrot Cake stall for the very scruptious 'chye tao guay'. While there, you might want to appreciate the very stoic Mrs of the stall, a plump elderly lady who stands before her huge frying pan uncomplainingly, dishing out countless orders of white / dark carrot, 'ai hiam, 'mai hiam', 'mai chang', 'mai neng' and so on as the husband yells out to her the individualised orders. Theirs, I've observed, is a very peculiar relationship; no doubt years of familiarity must have bred some contempt between them, for the Mrs does not talk to the husband at all. As she fries the carrot cake, she just listens to the orders he shouts out to her, never once asking that he repeats them, nor showing any kinds of reactions. She stands unflinchingly, a picture of calm composure, with her neatly-dorn apron and solid Crocs. And you know what, in all the years that I've watched her at work, she has never once got an order wrong. So much for 'Going the Extra Mile with a smile' efficiency that we crave to inculcate in our service sector. Her stoic attitude may not win her poster woman status, but hey, the stall is run super-efficient with just a silent-couple team!

The husband is a different plate altogether. He is prone to being riled by impatient customers, the heat in the hawker centre and fussy orders. But with the Mrs, I've seen him
exercising a great deal of courtesy and patience. He repeats long lists of orders to her and does not ask for her acknowledgement. Every now and then he would shout out reminders to her. Still, she would stand at her frying pan doing her stuff, with nary a word, grunt nor mutter. Thus their small business have gone on and on in this manner . . .

I've learnt a thing or two from the 'chye tao guay' Mrs. Being stoic may not be a bad thing; reponses are not called-for always. Silent is the new loud.

Ramadan

2009-08-23T16:31:00.000+08:00

It's Ramadan and the streets of Geylang Serai are brightly lit and festooned all over with Hari Raya lights and decorations. I am thinking of Lenson, Minghui, Ivan, Stephen, Koon Tat --- that they should all be out with their cameras busy snapping away. Am wondering if JC and Poly life have changed your interest in photography? One of the daughters has been at me again to get her a high-end camera when she does well for her major exam. Maybe I would, considering the fun I detect in you photo buffs when you go about your love.

Meantime, though the Hari Raya pasar malam stalls and 7th month getais are beckoning as needed breaks from school work, I am still struggling with tonnes of marking. The GCE 'O' level Oral Exams are still not over yet, so it's a very relentless part of Term 3 that I am in the midst of! Just to bring back memories of "Bar-bar-ra" that confounded some of you in the 2008 Orals, this year it was "Simon". Hahaaaaaa . . . I leave it to your imagination, the awful mispronunciation!

Boys Over Flowers and Long Live Singapore!

2009-08-09T00:32:00.003+08:00

I'm at a silly phase . . . giving myself deserved breaks from marking by indulging in K-dramas and oo-ing and aa-ing over cute Korean guys! Talk about mid-life crisis! Okay, you people can laugh yourself silly! On the other hand, the TV episodes do provide nice bonding sessions for the children (the girls, mainly)and I. It's quite something to swoon together with your almost-half-a-century Mum over your favourite handsome Korean actors, and act petulant together when your idol gets cosy with the female star! We laugh at how it would perhaps make better sense for some actor to best remember to dye his eyebrows as well when he colours his hair; and oh,I nearly got shoved off the sofa when I commented how one of the daughter's eye candy resemble the neighhourhood Beng durian seller, complete with his bean-pole physique and long tress cum fringe. Haha! Generation-gap, my foot! I was just being irritating. I fully empathasise with teenage crushes and muses.

Tomorrow's (oops! It's actually today considering it's now past 1 am) Singapore's
44th birthday! Happy Birthday, my country ! I remain one of your greatest admirer and supporter. Yep, with all your little imperfections, precociousness,uptightness, and some say heavily made-over efficient facade, I love you!! Even the 42.9% non-Singaporeans in our household salute you!

Monday's a school holiday! Hip hip hurray for the long weekend! I wish you an enjoyable break!

Gross!

2009-07-30T23:38:00.000+08:00

Hello one and all! It has been a very hectic and busy term 3 for me so far. Hope that you are enjoying a better pace of life than I am, . . . wherever you all are studying at!

Just to share with you. After the paper plane episode, it's been 'mealworm time" for us at our household. Yes, . . . one young one had to observe and study the life cycle of mealworms, and we therefore had to keep them . . . lots of them!! Yesterday, some of these things developed into pupae and that got everyone in the family all excited. I am thankful that his Science teacher had set him off to study these relatively small living things!

Then I had to struggle with the existence of the "tooth fairy" with the same young one whose milk teeth have been dropping like nobody's business. I did not remember having to try so hard with the older ones before him. SIGH! They sure do not make kids like they used to!

On a lighter note, just the other day, a Chinese foreign lady residing near me requested that I loan her my clothesline to hang her bedsheets. I was tickled! Culture assimilation hiccups. Then again, I sure must have looked hell of a friendly. What next? Borrow my Significant Other? Haha!

Down and out

2009-07-11T16:55:00.003+08:00

Okay, I, the indomitable Ms Q, am down and out with acute flu . . . no, no, not of the H1N1 variety! But nonetheless lethal enough to knock me off my feet for two days running now! I had a raging fever, sore throat and cough and had to be off school for two days! The 6 had to manage on auto-pilot mode mainly and my guess is I'll have to undo a lot of damages once I'm back on my feet again.

Just to share with you: Do you know that as a patient screened with high fever, I get priority in seeing a flu clinic doctor at the polyclinic? My visit to the clinic took all of only 25 minutes, including the dispensing of medication. Wow! That's uber-fast! And as usual, I met the nicest of people at these medical establishments. Erhem ... this time round, a very nice and polite young man manned the screening station at the clinc entrance, and boy was he super enthusiastic and warm to all and sundry who streamed in! I even overheard him volunteering translation services to the elderly at the pharmacy counter. Bless him! He had ear-piercings and some might say he is a trite effeminate. But in my eyes .... he was simply a very welcomed sight for the sick.

Vagabond resighted

2009-07-06T10:44:00.002+08:00

Remember the old vagabond who walks around in my neighbourhood with his possessions on his shoulders? Well, he 'disappeared' for a while; but is now back. He does not look too good --- gaunt and less spirited by my reckoning. His barang-barang is considerably less; perhaps he just cannot handle the old heavy load anymore. But what troubled me was that he is walking around these days sans footwear! I just cringe when I imagine how his feet must hurt when the relentless sun scorch our metalled road and pavement to unforgiving temperatures!

I finally found time to approach him when I next sighted him to offer him a pair of slippers. My daughter who was beside me was a little worried if the old man might be mentally unsound (as we suspect!)and harm me in retaliation for my nosiness. Our fears were unfounded. The grouchy vagabond brushed aside my offer and grunted that he was better off minus footwear as his feet were swollen and hurting.

So that's that. I feel much better now when I see him walking slowly in the neighbourhood.

Happy Youth Day!

2009-07-03T16:48:00.002+08:00

Have a very Happy Youth Day this Sunday, one and all! Celebrate the prime years of your life and have a ball of a time! I know . . . the H1N1 virus is wreaking havoc at many fronts; but do learn how to make the best use of the situation. You have to take the necessary precautions of course and not be foolish with unnecessary exposure to the virus.

Yesterday son number 3 reminded me of the care-free spirit of youth. There was to be a paper aeroplane flying contest in his class, and for one whole day, he researched and pondered on his model plane entry. Finally, he proudly showed me his Prototype Two plane, complete with well-thought over modifications to the plane wings, tip and under-belly. He very seriously explained to me his adjustments to accomodate air-dynamics, gravity and aesthetics. Well, . . . for a 9 year-old, he sure spoke a lot of scientific sense. I laughed . . . so like 'brainiac' to undertake every set school project with full enthusiasm and to the best of his ability.

Brainiac flew his prized Prototype and it chalked up the longest distance in the class competition! We were all very proud of him. YOUTH --- its raw energy, untainted naiveity and unabashed openness to having fun are reminders to all of us that life is enjoyable if we set ourselves free sometimes!

Preparedness

2009-06-23T09:43:00.002+08:00

I mourn the passing of the father of counselling, the late Mr Anthony Yeo. I have always admired the likes of him --- individuals who make the unburdening of troubled souls their calling in life. How many of us even bother to listen to our loved ones, not to mention even try to share in their trials and tribulations?

Then yesterday, one of the daughter's friend's father lost his fight with stomach cancer. I can imagine what a loss this sole-bread winner would mean to his wife and very young children. I asked my 6 if they were ready to lose me at this point of their lives. Some said yes, others gave nervous laughter and a couple brushed off my silly rantings. The late Mr Anthony Yeo said that he was ready for eternal rest with his Maker; I want to be able to say that when my time comes.

Of actors, actresses and "carlafays"

2009-06-16T12:42:00.002+08:00

Yesterday was a fun-filled whole-family-hands-on day. For her school project, one of the daughters needed to make a short movie and naturally our family was the defacto acting pool. You name it, we were it -- main actors, actresses, characters when they were young to characters 15 years later, parents, drunkards, background crowd etc. We also chipped in to do the make-up, procure the necessary props and like real, ..... we had storyboards, lighting effects and what it took to make a fairly decent short movie. Passers-by at our outdoor shoot venue even mistook us for some Mediacorp outfit! Haha! It was really fun! I even mangaged to squeeze in some school prep work in between acting,being tea lady, lunch provider and chauffeur to all and sundry. The day was well-spent.

Half-way reflection

2009-06-03T11:10:00.002+08:00

Half of 2009 has just zipped by. I give thanks for a largely blessed year of teaching at a new environment and growing-up-with-the-kids at home. I learnt a good plenty this half of the year --- how to be even more disciplined with my life and how to ride everything that comes along with added measured patience. There are still many things I would love to turn out better, .... but well .... there is still another half of the year and it would be there for my taking with a better outlook and handling! I see the 6 growing up furiously fast --- each with their distinctive personality. I pray each day that they might eschew every experience that they encounter with compassion, integrity and genuine enjoyment of what they do. I have seen far too many souls -- young and old --- who go about aimlessly with emptiness in their lives. What a waste of living! Students dying in every sense of the word, chasing grades; adults too busy chasing their dollars and cents to raise their own kids; youngsters engaging in debauchery in the name of being cool ----- aiyah, wake up, people!

Hello!

2009-05-19T12:02:00.001+08:00

Don't say never blog ah Ivan =)
Schools going well for me, kinda relieve to see familiar faces in school once in awhile .
Foods nice... heh
Anyway, what say we go out one day for a movie or sort? Been long since we met up huh?
Star trek anyone? =D
-View

Done with the Marking

2009-05-13T19:25:00.002+08:00

Okay, people, I'm finally done with the MYE EL marking. Now for the Lit scripts that will soon come in tomorrow! You know, the voluminous marking is the not-so-fun bit about teaching. We all know that assessment is integral to, for and as learning, but hey, teachers all over the world would appreciate a more manageable volume given other responsibilities.

Anyway, that's just rambling from one tired but relieved teacher (till tomorrow, that is!). So, how did this year's Mother's Day go? Just to make you envious AGAIN, I thought I would share that this year, I got to sleep in late on Mother's Day, and the 6 prepared me a full American breakfast --- sausages, scrambled eggs, bacon, toast, orange juice. I even had the Straits Times thrown in and 6 lovely hand-made cards of course! Haha! My kids are so terrified of this evil Mum. I tick off against their names in my little black book you know, and promise to pay-it-forward in my grey years! Muahahaaaaaaa!!!! I hope that you all had a nice day with your Mum and family too. Mothers are God's greatest creations, you know! Hah,.... self-praise!

How are all your studies going on? Any marked changed in your social life since you flew the Secondary school coop? Like I tagged in my C-box, I miss my days at HIHS. The Christian set-up is one thing; the other is the zanier lot of teachers and students.

Okay, signing off now .... abruptly. Got to do the chauffeur-thingey for one in the herd. Catch up with you all again another time.

Keep Well!

Outing!

2009-04-09T11:17:00.011+08:00

Ok, today is View™ birthday. Happy Birthday! Not like someone forget mine -.-(cough*)

Alright, yesterday got 4INT outing! Met up with View Meng at senkang Mrt station, saw Jun Han there too. He was waiting for Malvin so we left first, and that View Meng, go and shortform Harbourfront station to HF station. Then some of them though it as Hougang station. So reached Harbourfront station on time, Hui Joo was there already. Surprise la, we though we are the first two that reach there. But nvm, even more shocking, Xue Ee and Jemaine are inside vivocity shopping liao! Then Wan Ting and Koon Tat appear soon later. So we have to wait for the others to come, wait wait wait, 1 hour 30 mins then everybody came. Except for Ming Hui lar, cause he got Reason one!(KOON TAT hor!) LOL, so we took the monorial to sentosa. Reach there already going lunch time liao, but heck! We continue play vollyball, then touch rugby then go swim. Elaine claim that she was a Pro in vollyball, but then she like stand there counting the score, and not doing anything. Haha xD. So we went back to Vivocity at around 3.30pm, was dead tired by then. Actually we're going to catch a movie, but then turn out go "shopping". Hungry already, went to Kopitiam see got what thing to eat, then walk one round. Airil dont have a choice there, so went to Banquet to eat instead. Nowadays, shopping centre food are expensive. After lunch, which is like 4pm. We all went our own ways, some go shopping, some went home, some went out. =D That's about it for our 2nd Sentosa outing this year.

Koon Tat and Ming Hui

View Meng and LiJing

Aril: Yo! What sup man.

Alvin: What lar, I very suai also no need take right! >=D

Malvin: Sian lar, no chio bu here! >=[

Chun Hwee: Hehe ^.^

Elaine:(Pls type caption here)

Jun Han: Wah, the sky got money drop down. xD

SENTOSA

2009-04-01T23:01:00.003+08:00

Yosh people!
Hows life huh? Hope its going great for you guys!
Okay, theres gona be a Sentosa outing for us peeps nxt wed, which is the 8th of April!
We shall meet at early early there and go back late late HAHA!
I hope you guys can go , yeap!
Till then!
View

Earth Hour

2009-03-29T18:23:00.002+08:00

We agreed days before that we should do our part to save Earth and switch off all unnecessay power during Earth Hour (8.30pm to 9.30pm)on 28 March 2008. Oops, I was busy marking away and everyone else doing their own stuff when number 5 yelled that Earth Hour had already descended on us! It was 9.00pm! Frantically, we took out the candles, switched off all the house lights and sheepishly tried to do our bit for Mother Earth. One of the daughters had to shower in candlelight. The rest of us soaked in the ambience of the unfamiliar but otherwise quite romantic atmosphere. We noticed that most in our neighbourhood were not observing the occasion. The Significant Other had to spoil it all by barging home, a hungy and angry man, not to be stopped by Earth Hour in his quest to fix a quick meal!! So it was lights on in the kitchen . . . sigh!

Okay ... so we all know that it was a mere token observence and reminder of a bigger issue ---- that we must conserve energy and be mindful of caring for our Earth. I did my nagging bit of course; reminded everyone to use the heater and air-conditioning with prudence, to reuse and recycle as much as we can. Nope, I rejected the not-bathing-so-often suggestion. Nice try, kids!!

Missing wit and humour

2009-03-25T23:17:00.003+08:00

I felt a void today. Suddenly missed the wit and humour of some of my colleagues from HIHS. Kind of also wished that sometimes religion could be the anchor that lost souls look to for stability.

Anger Management

2009-03-24T23:53:00.003+08:00

The weather has been incredibly hot and humid lately, and it is really quite torturous for students and teachers alike to sit out long hours in classrooms. But still, there is no excuse for anyone to dispense with manners and civilities. Really! Today, two of my students almost fought over classroom cleaning duties. Why? Just because one of them would not thank the other for helping out, and insist on being inflexible about assigned duties. Haiz . . . I can understand why there would always be wars in our world!

When everything is cooler, including the weather, I shall have to sit the students down for a good talk.

I detect so much anger in people these days. Not a good thing. We 'explode' at the slightest agitation, and have no patience to consider others' feelings and viewpoints.

RoAd TrIp

2009-03-24T18:45:00.006+08:00

Alright just came back from hospital. Had a very eventful day yesterday. Woke at 7 plus in the morning. Cycle to Lenson house at 8.30am, then waited for View Meng to call me. So MingHui, Lenson and Me waited until 9.30 plus then he came -.- Uber late lor. Then we started to cycle along Ubi road then pass Eunos and finally reach East Coast park. So MingHui brought along his camera, and we took pictures there. So we carry on our trip till Changi Village. In the midst, my mum call me and told me that my Grandpa had been admitted to hospital. Plan had change, so i detour to the hospital while the rest continue their journey. I got nothing much to say, so i'll just let the pictures to the work!=]

School's out!

2009-03-16T00:50:00.002+08:00

School's out for us in Secondary and Primary schools! Finally, I can take a breather and devote some time to see to the little things that were just simply set aside amidst all the rush during the past academic term. In fact, I have just finished sewing the name tags for the boys that just wouldn't adhere by their stick-on backs, mended a couple of burst blouse sleeve seams, and caught up with the tons of ironing . . . One more basketball jersey to mend, a couple more skirt hooks to fix and all the kids' uniforms and school attire should be in order. I can't wait for all their sewing skills to reach "auto-pilot" standards so that I might "retire"!

For the next few days, I intend to catch up with some reading ---- not for work, but for pleasure; maybe go to the movies; and ah yes . . . dare I say to the gym?! Wish me the discipline to really make good use of my precious one week March hols!

End of Term 1 already

2009-03-09T17:33:00.005+08:00

Wow, the Earth sure is spinning a lot faster. Can you believe it? 10 weeks of school have almost flown by and the term is almost coming to an end. How are the JC people amongst you? I understand that the Poly people are still awaiting the start of the academic year.

For me, the past couple of weeks have been really busy. Plenty of marking. Lots of fun teaching Literature and fun plays. You know me, the Drama Mama. Overall, I have enough good moments in school to balance up lousy ones.

Despite our hectic schedules, the Significant Other and I found rare moments 2 weeks back to do our parent bit for one of our daughters. You wouln't believe it: we conducted a sushi-making session for about 35 Secondary students!! Yes, complete with power point presentations, You-tube videos and actual on-hands demonstrations. And made an impressive array of sushis too! It was hilarious --- the two of us most unlikely partners at work in a school environment! I'm sure the daughter and the two of us will remember this for a long long time! The show-off Significant Other demonstrated the power of super-sharp Sushi knives, only to sustain cuts to his own fingers. I scoffed and laughed my head off, of course!!

Now the other younger ones wonder if we could do fun things for their peers in their schools too. Like play rugby, cook (again!), sing or do craftwork! Hahaaaaaaaa!

Valentine's Day every day

2009-02-15T00:05:00.002+08:00

Sigh! He don't send me flowers any more! Sob! Better still, he's gone across the causeway to ex-girlfriend land . . . muttered something about our relationship able to withstand the withouts of commercial Valentine's Day. Haha . . . I had you on with my pitiable opening pennings, didn't I? Nah, the Significant Other's not entirely amnesic about 14 Feb. He did the dishes super-quick for me last night and SMS-ed me sweet nothings upon reaching Malaysia. I have no complaints.

Did you guys read today's Straits Times on the inspiring real-life love stories of Singaporeans who demonstrate and experience enduring love of the most touching kind? Yes, I think that if there's anything good that would come out of this dreaded recession, it would be the realisation in many of us of the value of spending quality time with our family and loved ones. Minus all the glitterati of a clock-work booming economy and distractions of material possessions, many of us must now search for more permanent and meaningful purposes that make a difference to our existence.

Maybe you are still too young to feel this round of recession. Then again, maybe not. Have you cause yet to take serious stock of your life as you see many around you grapple with burgeoning financial difficulties and related woes?

Who's gone where and doing what?

2009-02-05T00:12:00.002+08:00

So, a few days of studies at your new tertiary institute of learning already. How goes? Who's gone where and pursuing what courses? If you've got some time, updates would be appreciated!

Commmon tests are going to start full swing for me soon . . . tons of marking. But it's been good so far. I'm having a rewarding time.

Eat luck!

2009-01-26T22:35:00.002+08:00

My brother-in-law is such a jolly man and man, he can sure cook up a storm. He pampered us to a wonderful steamboat spread, 6-star nasi goreng and better-than-Chatterbox-chicken rice! My sisters and brother stayed back for his teh-si cum kueh lapis after-dinner treat, but I surrendered --- simply too full and tired to eat anymore! And one of the daughter's asthma was acting up. The littlest nephew cried bucketfuls when we bade him goodnight ---- got attached to my children, his cousins! They were having a whale of a time playing computer games, make-believe-enactments and just chatting away. One of my daughters was Milo bartender to the younger kids and young-at-heart adults, and we laughed when she shook the drinks up like it were some cocktail!

Hope that you are all having a wonderful CNY too!

Over-reacting

2009-01-21T22:41:00.002+08:00

Okay, I think that I am over-reacting to the marks analysis for our EL. But the truth is: I am genuinely shocked that some of you underachieved. Kinda set me thinking if perhaps I had done enough . . . Was the paper really that tough and different compared to the previous year's?

My daughter thinks that I am cruel to want to pursue the matter. Hahahaaa . . . she's right you know. None of you, she says is going to want to respond to my tags. What do I expect? Crazy, ah! So people, forget what I asked about the results. I am letting go . . . Will however continue to reflect on my pedagogy.

So, a few more days to the Chinese New Year? Any new plans on visitations post-"O"s? This year, my outstation brother and family will be home to celebrate with us. It would be nice to see my littlest nephew. Bet he's grown a lot! Just last weekend, I took my brother's car for a spin. His is a certain high-end branded sports convertible. My kids and I had fun posing like cool country bumpkins in his posh vehicle. It was hilarious. My sisters laughed at our antics. We have some funny photos for posterity!

See, even adults and teachers at that, get all silly sometimes! I had fun with my sisters and mother last weekend. We paid our respects to our Dad at the columbrarian. It's been 12 years since his passing. But we still miss him sorely.

You responded!

2009-01-17T14:11:00.002+08:00

Wow, three posts! I'm happy that you all are still reading and responding to the class blog. Great idea --- the Sentosa gathering! It's very true, once JC and Poly term starts, it'll be more difficult to arrange for meet-ups! Don't be pai-seh about your "o" level results. It's only one exam! You have so many more opportunities to showcase your abilities. Be cool, people! In life, please try and see the BIG picture --- enjoy your existence and have quality pursuits!!

Having said my piece about Secondary school get-togethers, I'll like to share with you that some of the more treasured friendships I hold dear to this very day are cultivated while I was in secondary school. 33 years away from secondary school, and my faithful school-mates are still arranging for CNY gatherings and school anniversary celebrations. We still celebrate our principal's birthday every year and remember our teachers on important occasions! How's that for enduring relationships?! I give thanks for my school-mates who take time to keep all of us in touch over the years, and I urge you to give your support too to View Meng and those who take the initiative to organise stuff for all!

Now to share with you a little of my reflection last evening while I wait for the clothes to dry in the tumble dryer: as I identified my EL'C' graders for after-school remedial lessons, I get students who asked if they could turn up even though they made the cut! This is a school where about 47% of the "O" level students will score distinctions for their EL Many aspire to be in the distinction half, and nobody mocks them for their aspirations. Generally, there is a consensus of respect for people who want to strive for good standards. I was telling my 6: it is not uncool to want to be the best; you owe it to yourself to maximise your potential. But I insist that academic pursuits must be balanced by a holistic partaking of other school and familial offerings. Life is meant to be enjoyed!

What I want to say to you is: your tertiary education will mark another new beginning. Why not take the time to consider how you want to make it a fantastic one for yourself?

2009-01-17T12:51:00.002+08:00

Hello guys.
As you all know, there will be a outing on the 29th of jan.
I do hope all of us can go as it might(hopefully not) be the very last time the whole class can gather.
So hopefully you guys can inform me whether or not you guys can go on that day
For those working, there should be enough time to apply for leave.
Thanks in advance,

View

2009-01-17T01:17:00.003+08:00

Ok, I don't know if most of you are free on the 29th for the Sentosa trip. But think about it, for those who are going JC and those going poly, will there be time for us to meet up and have class gatherings again?

Our schedules will be so tight, we might not even have time to hang out, or maybe even go drinking although we are under age :P. Not only that, some of you may be working too. So I'm hoping that most of us can make it. It might be the 4th day of the Chinese New Year, take some time off and spend it with friends. Not that I'm saying family ain't important.

Let's go for it ok? And also to sort of make up for the 4th day of the chalet which we didn't stay. Just one day of fun won't harm yea? Hope you guys will inform View Meng. Happy holidays!

Jude

Results.

2009-01-15T21:15:00.003+08:00

Hello! I'm here to blog because I don't want Miss Quan to think I did badly haha.

Although I didn't exceed her expectations. Because I got an A1 for English and cannot exceed already. Hahaha okay now people will think I'm showing off. =(

To those that didn't get their ideal results, no point regretting and focusing on the past yea? Life is too short for regrets. =)

Anyways, would anyone want to go to Sentosa on the 29th January? It's a few weeks away so there would be time to apply for leave and all that. And JC people can go too. Contact View Meng for details. =P

Second week of school

2009-01-15T19:11:00.002+08:00

I guess silence means that the English Language results are none too good for most of you. Anyhow, that is water under the bridge . . . And it cannot mean the end of the world. Look forward! Now's the time to choose very wisely your tertiary educational institution. Hey, new place, new friends and new experiences soon! Excited?

I'm having fun at my new school. The students are largely motivated and for the first time, I'm in an environment with more male students! Haha! Any tips for me? You would be thankful to hear this: second week of school only and my department has already administered 3 diagnostic tests, 1 Information Technology assignment, 1 spelling test, afternoon supplementary and remedial lessons! You can imagine my marking load and the tight deadline means that every night, I do laundy and marking till past midnight? Do you envy my life? Hahahaaa!

Mercifully, my kids are behaving and responding to my new schedules for them in 2009. Brainiac has decided to join his brother in Rugby, so that means that they have one another to tackle CCA after school and thence come home together. One newly initiated Sec 1 chappie surprised me with his maturity at commuting by public transport, although I had to "rescue' him one night when he slept on the bus and missed his stop! The older girls have been wonderful. For 2009, they have shown that they can handle ironing and sewing. Hmmmm . . . now to train them to wash, cook and clean house!

The Significant Other has been egging the boys on about body toning. Hahaaaaa .... something about building 6-packs and attracting girlfrends! He's bought new dumb bells for the boys, and hair gel to share when they go impress chio-gals! Tsk . . tsk....!

So when will your JAE results be made known?

Good luck, people! Another phase of your journey begins. Waste not!

Mr Quan indeed!

2009-01-08T21:57:00.001+08:00

Despite my self-introduction, some of my new students addresed me as "Mrs Quan", "Miss Quek" and one class even greeted me "Mr Quan"!! Tell me, am I missing out on some changes to my physical appearance??

Cruelty to ants

2008-12-27T23:14:00.002+08:00

Mark gleefully shared with me that one can actually confuse an ant by drawing a circle round it with a marker --- the ink scent actually will throw its navigation system completely haywire!! The other two boys volunteered to comb for an ant trail in and around the hourse in order to test out his theory. I told them that I was all for scientific inquiry and investigation, but they would have to clean out the circle markings of course! But, I put my foot down to them verifying feats featured in Ripley's Belive It Or Not!!

Not exactly roasting chestnuts and Winter wonderland

2008-12-26T12:42:00.004+08:00

I surprised myself. I thought that for the first time in 16 years that I do not put up the Christmas tree and engage in the usual Yultide gift galore thing, the kids will hate me for it. But our last minute modest BBQ on Christmas eve and ice skating session on Christmas Day more than made up for everything. Amongst 1 Girl Guide, 1 Boy Scout, 1 Red Cross member, 1 St John Ambulance member and 4 other very helpful and enthusisiastic ones, we made a good fire, skewered colourful kebabs, BBQ-ed flavourful variety of meats and seafood, made a sumptious salad and roasted nice potatoes! We even managed to whip up mouth-watering hot soup too! I am biased of course . . . but this BBQ seemed more effortless, . . . I guess because the grown up kids chipped in more to do their part. We played Uno after dinner and the boys cheekily put up a raunchy Chippendale dance in their bath towels afterwards! The rest of us really had no choice but be held literally captive audience. Hahahaaaa!!

Ice skating at Kallang Leisuredome really brought highs for the children! Being the noobiest novice, Brainiac braved many falls and his jeans were all wet. The older ones embarassed me with their Christmas reindeer horns, bright red caps, green T-shirts and Christmas jingles as they skated. I tell you, you don't want to be near this family sometimes!! The Significant Other rushed back from his appointment to join us only towards the end of the session, but from the perpetual silly grin on his face, we can all tell that he is happy with what he saw at the ice rink.

Another Christmas, another wonderful time of family bonding and affirmation . . . The economy may not be wonderful, but I thank God, He is looking over my family!

All I want for Christmas is . . .

2008-12-24T14:42:00.001+08:00

Christmas is here and some people just ask for the whimsiest thing that comes to their mind: The boys cheekily asked if I can produce a baby brother for them, that is, if my body is till capable of it!! I retorted that I would if their father could find me a younger mate; that way, they could maybe have a brother who would not look as retarded like them! Wuahahahaha . . . . people, I'm just joking of course; please do not take offence nor be shocked. Sacarsm runs in this family and by now, you probably would have guessed that sex is not a taboo topic under this roof here. Haha! My parents,his parents and most of our immediate family members and friends would be shocked at our openness with our kids; but hey, better get the correct information from us parents than from dubious sources, right?!

On this light note, I wish one and all reading this blog a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May 15 January 2009 bring you good news of your "O" level results and may all your choicest dreams come true!!

Winter Solstice

2008-12-21T00:25:00.002+08:00

It's Winter Solstice today, and we did the regular thing with the tang yuan. The Significant Other bought the glutinous rice flour, ground peanut, pandan leaves, rock sugar and the kids had fun kneading the dough into tiny balls and putting peanut fillings into some. We cooked everything in fragrant pandan rock sugar soup and lapped up every bit of our works! This year, the boys entertained with new magic tricks picked up and perfected --- thanks to the internet. Yes, I know, they are supposed to be banned from the internet, but well, I'll shut one eye . . . tis the season to hang loose, or so the kids tell me! But urgghh . . . the extra clearing up after that . . . I didn't quite relish --- not after having scrubbed and washed 6 pairs of dirty and heavy jeans this morning and doing 2 loads of laundry!! Plus the cleaning of the house . . .! I'm helper-less again at the moment. Long story . . .!!

Dance feast

2008-12-13T22:36:00.002+08:00

Had two full rehearsal rounds of the ballet concert performance today. We all had fun -- daughter # 2, son # 1 and I helped managed the stage and dancers, while daughters # 1 and # 3 danced! The youngest 2 sons were thrown to the Significant Other to manage. I tell you, I want to be born a dancer in my next life! The grace, poise, lithe movements, music, choreography and beautiful costumes are just so oooOOOHH!! As we got the 6-year-olds ready at the stage wings for their acts, I was reminded of how I got initiated as a ballet Mum way back when daughter #1 was just 4 years old. Today, I could sense the excitement of all the ballet Mums and Dads as they tried to peer into the door windows of the rehearsal venue. And the little ones, all fired up over their bling bling tutus . . . I smiled at their exuberence and innocence! I smiled again as I bunned up their hair and helped them change into their costumes. And the Advanced dancers, . . . a couple of them have moved on to clinch dance scholarships, both locally and abroad. After watching them and the daughters grow over 12 years of dancing together, I feel proud for them.

The darn recession . . . I'm considering if perhaps the daughters should just stop their ballet lessons. You never know . . . better be financially prudent. But then again, they have come very far. Hmm . . . almost as if she just read my mind, the ballet teacher today offered teaching assistantship to the eldest daughter. Well . . . she may well be able to help supplement her own ballet dance fees then . . .

A guy-kind of shopping

2008-12-11T00:22:00.002+08:00

Son # 1 and I did a very guy-kind of shopping today. We planned beforehand the kinds of apparel we wanted to buy, parked the car, and tore out the one-and-a-half hours worth of coupons that should nicely see us through our mission. Headed into the very crowded, super-noisy and stuffy Bugis Street bazaar and tried to find stuff that would fit Mr Super-skinny. I tell you, it was tough navigating the stalls and sussing out what we fancy, with the two of us being non-shopping-types! I wish I had my shopoholic sister with me on the trip! Anyway, today, I kind of put myself in the circuit where guy fashion is concerned. It's one of those Mum-things I need do, I guess. But no thanks, amongst the daughters and the sons, I think that the next time round, I shall supply the dough and leave them to do the shopping.

Say, . . . I'm touched

2008-12-08T13:30:00.003+08:00

Minghui, thanks for the save-our-blog post! Maybe some more of the rest of you might be encouraged by him to come forward with your postings. You know, I'm officially no more your English Language teacher; maybe this might make you feel more relaxed about contributing to the blog?! Yes?! Okay, I shall not take down the blog. But please feel free to update it and keep it alive so that all will be encouraged to visit it. Yes, . . . it would be nice to keep in touch.

Just yesterday, I met 3 ex-NJC students I taught, at my cousin's wedding. They squealed, " Ms Quan!!", and almost instantaneously, we were yakking away like we never left college. Good grief, over 24 years of not meeting, and we just cliqued like old times . . . I tell you, the teaching profession does yield very rewarding moments . . . I'm totally biased.

And to share with you a light moment: Brainiac wanted me to smuggle him into my gym. He said that I should just put a slice of bread beside each of his ears, and then take him in. That way, when I'm questioned, I should just say, "Look, what I put in my sandwich is my business." Very funny . . . I know it's got to do with the kind of books he's reading these days.

Then, the daughter received her vacation job pay last week. She's graciously giving me $100 and her old man $100 too. Bless her! I'm touched.

Reasons why the blog should not be taken down.

2008-12-07T22:29:00.003+08:00

The following blog post shall state the numerous reasons why my classmates and I feel that this class blog should not be taken down. It should be safe to assume that most, if not all of my classmates are for the notion of leaving this blog alive. (Anyone who doesn't agree please come find me. =P)

Firstly, the blog would be a great way for us to organize class gatherings and such. Although today's technological advances evidenced by social networking sites and instant messaging programs make it relatively easy for us to do so, it would be much easier and more efficient if future class gatherings and meet-ups were organised through this blog as everyone would have access to it. We would therefore not be required to disseminate information to each and every one of our classmates, and information about our class gatherings (if any) would be accurate and up-to-date if posted on this blog. As such, I feel that this blog should not be taken down.

Secondly, the blog would help us to keep in contact. (For those not wearing contacts also) A blog can be a short snapshot of one's life, and as long as my classmates regularly update this blog, it would be a quick and easy way to catch up with the random stupid things ~~they~~we are doing lately. For example, instead of having to repeat to everybody which JC or Poly you have gone to, it would be easier to just post it here, and we wouldn't have to repeat ourselves so many times and waste our energy. =) Furthermore, it would get harder and harder for us to keep in contact as we would all be going to different Tertiary institutions next year ~~or retaining~~. This blog would therefore be a simple efficient network for us, and would also be convenient as many of us already have Blogger accounts. Therefore I feel that this blog should not be taken down.

Of course you may say that this blog might require constant maintenance from time to time. However, this does not have to be the case as the running of the blog can be handed to us students. Therefore Ms Quan would be freed from needing to manage this blog and at the same time can keep up to date with us as a class. =) At this point I'm actually really lazy to think of some more reasons and just wrote this sentence so that the post will seem longer and hopefully no one will see this because they'll just skim through the post. Hahaha. Hence I feel that this blog should not be taken down.

In conclusion, this blog should not be taken down as long as my classmates are willing to maintain it and keep it updated. The blog would not only help us to organize class gatherings, but would also help us to stay in contact and the running of the blog can be handed over to us students. Therefore I feel that the blog should not be taken down.

There, I posted. =)
Done by: Zheng Minghui, Sec 4 Integrity.

Chalet2008

2008-12-04T10:45:00.001+08:00

Hi guys, this is the group photos yesterday.

I~VaN™

BBQ paradise

2008-12-04T01:01:00.002+08:00

1.01am . . . just finished clearing up after a most sumptuous supper of grilled stingrays and sotongs courtesy of you 4 Integrity people! My 6 very satisfied kids want to say a big THANK YOU to you all for so graciously sharing your BBQ fare! View Meng heard their thanks over his handphone earlier on. I had to cut short their zeal to continue to yak with him. They'd probably have yelped: "Mum, what are you doing wandering around the house naked again!!!" or something like that just to embarass me! Hai yo, you don't know them . . .

They were really keen to join you all at your Costa Sands chalet, really. You see, they have been put on a no computer lifestyle this hols, and have to learn to make do with an alternative lifestyle to prove that life can be equally meaningful. Haha.... so far, so good. We have gone back to reading together as a family, swimming, skateboarding, practising on our pianos and drums, skipping, car drives, grocery trips together and learning to cook from new recipes. Yah, we can all attest that weaning ourselves from the computer does free a lot of time for us to try doing other stuff that we wouldn't dream of. Maybe, you all want to give it a shot someday.

It's nice to see you all again at a most lovely setting by the pool, under the moonlight, carrassed by a cool breeze and palate ticked with a wonderful spread of thoughfully BBQ-ed food. I was telling the 6 that I felt pampered . . . by you all. Thanks, people!

I shall miss you all!

Quantum of Solace please

2008-11-27T09:32:00.003+08:00

The daughter and I could have died yesterday --- we were involved in a 4-car freak accident on our way home and by a stroke of 'mee-pok' luck, we averted death. The daughter was feeling sick and hungry after her morning work shift and I had just picked her up from the MRT station. Thought I'll cheer her up with a packet of her favourite 'mee pok'. Just managed to stop the car to ease into a parking lot when a goods van veered out of control from the opposite lane, hit the gas delivery truck in front of us, spun 360 degrees and smashed head-on into our car. Like in a 007-movie, played out in slow motion, I told the daughter to sit tight, uttered an "Oh my God", and when the impact hit us and the van had come to a standstill, I shouted for the daughter to get out and run away from the scene fast and far away, as the huge gas cylinders from the truck in front were knocked onto the road! I did not want to be caught in any inferno arising from any leaked gas! I tell you ... thank goodness we were both still safely buckled up and fortunately, the gas truck got the first impact and we only got a reduced impact from the spun van! I dread to think how the daughter and I could have collided head-on with the van had we not stopped for the 'mee pok'! Thank God too that there were miraculously no serious casualties. A lady passsenger of the van had slight cuts and the driver and she were traumatised. The goods van was badly smashed in and my car was the next badly damaged vehicle. Anyway to cut the long story short, I summoned the police, ambulance and the husband. All involved exchanged particulars and later this morning, I would have to make an accident report and insurance claim.

Just to share with you the candid responses I received over the course of yesterday's accident:

1. Son No. 3 called me on my cell phone to ask if I was okay and thence proceeded to continue with his anaylsis of his 2009 school textbook bill and uniform procurement. The accident, notwithstanding, he was more concerned about continuing with our discussion earlier on before I left the house. It was surreal, but I answered him and continued with our discussion, in the midst of talking to the attending traffic cop and the other drivers.

2. The husband was a little exasperated with my unclear directions given to him of the accident location. SIGH! He said that his ex-girl friend would have done a better job. Darn!

3. As for my daughter, I told her that what's done is done and that she should continue to eat her 'mee pok' at the accident scene noodle shop while I attended to the aftermath. Told her to walk home after that while the hubby and I took care of the matter.

Haiz . . . you would think that the daughter and I would get some quantum of solace and fuss over this accident. No . . . essentially, we are quite stoic over matters involving non-consequential outcomes. I was even sent out later in the evening to get peppermint ice cream and early this morning, sons no. 1 and 3 asked if they could be taken for the promise swim session at the club! And right now, the very virulent virus has infected 2 more in the family; that leaves son no. 3, me and the hubby the remaining healthy ones. Vomit, sore-throat and fever central has played for about a week now, and if things do not improve, I must take all for a second trip to the docs.

Bugged!

2008-11-26T13:36:00.002+08:00

Tis the season when some nasty virus got 3 down (so far)in the family with fever, bad headaches and body aches. The Southern Ridges, Water Barrage, beach picnics and cycling trips will have to wait until the sick ones recover. Meanwhile, ballet and Chinese Orchestra rehearsals are picking up steam and it's been confirmed that I shall help out with the ballet concert stage management this year. Gonna rope in son no. 1 to help out as well. Maybe daughter no. 2 too if she's alright with it. Haha... you can tell that we are hopelessly family-addicted!

I know, 2008 has not ended yet. But I'm making my new year resolutions already. Gotta lose 3 kgs so that I can run gracefully on the treadmill again, and that Advanced Medical Directive . . . must go check it out seriously. Yah yah .... the kids say that I should nag them less and look more on the bright side of things. Hmmm . . .

A Party To Remember!

2008-11-18T10:14:00.002+08:00

Thanks for graduating this year and lending me the opportunity to party with you last evening! You all look gorgeous and handsome! And what's this? 4 Integrity seemed to have hogged the lucky draw prize winnings! Hahahaaaaa! I had a lot of fun at your Prom Party. The fake eye lashes were weighing down on my eyelids, the big flower was pinned a tad too tight to my hair for comfort, and I was fearful of a wardrobe malfunction, considering the rented outfit was clearly made for slimmer bods . . . Notwithstanding these, I die die made sure that I lapped up every moment of the night! You will be flying the secondary school coop soon and in many ways, I shall miss all of you . . . !!

Like the butterfly that I came as, I want you all to know that each one of us has what it takes to morph into something beautiful (within and without)! Believe in yourself, but of course, make the efforts to achieve your set goals.

Early this morning, the workaholic Significant Other reviewed the snapshots taken of the zany me by the kids and recoiled in horror. Very gah-gah hor, he teased. Well, . . . he's not too bad himself. He was gamed when I dressed him up as Santa one Christmas, put him up on high on the roof and made him make wishes come true for our kids and the neighbours' kids. He didn't mind when we nearly skewered him on the metal fences and gamely played out the kiddos' wish to see him ride away into the skies in his reindeer-drawn sleigh . . .

People, contrary to popular belief, you are not only young once; you can stay young as long as you like! You know what I mean.

Have a good hols!

You made it!

2008-11-11T10:10:00.004+08:00

By the time you read this, all of you would have been done with the last of your 'O' level papers. Congrats, people! You made it! Now's the time to really live up life. Let's see . . . there's your Prom Party coming up, tons of shopping to catch up with, movies to watch, gossiping with gfs and bfs, travelling, sleeping . . . plentiful fun things to do to reward yourselves for all that mugging! Go have a good time!

I've a fair bit lined up this period of time too. Many days will be devoted to preparing two for an upcoming ballet concert, and I anticipate that I will be helping to sew some costume thingeys and involved with the rehearsals. Imagine --- over 12 years being a ballet mum! But the instructress is a wonderful person --- worth entrusting my kids to her over the years.

At this juncture, I take this opportunity to inform you all that I shall not be renewing my teaching contract for 2009 at HIHS afterall. Will instead be taking up an offer elsewhere. So, I invite you all to pen some posts at our class blog for keepsakes. I am going to take down this blog on 31 December 2008. It would be nice to take some of your penned notes with me . . .

What's there to whine about?

2008-11-05T00:12:00.003+08:00

Caught this week's "Life Transformers" and Tuesday feature --- both Chinese TV programmes about courageous characters who are braving life's challenges. The first featured a mother who has been single-handedly caring for her mentally-challenged 33 year-old-son, and the second featured a cancer-stricken 41 year-old-mother-of-two who bravely faces her condition. Okay . . . I was like very moved by what were depicted. The indomitable spirit, selfless love, incredible determination and clear sense of purpose that were displayed by the two individuals in the face of pain, suffering, financial deprivation, and finite life span just overwhelm me.

I thought: what right have I to whine about my life, when many others out there have so much more on their plate and less resources to tap on as support?

Singapore parents

2008-11-01T19:45:00.003+08:00

I brought brainiac for his first music theory exam this morning. If you didn't know better, you would have thought that some kind of Imperial Exam were being held. Anxious parents were sitting outside the venue benches and tables, going over last-minute revision notes and hovering anxiously over their charges' tables, as the candidates pasted their identification labels on the exam answer scripts, about 5 minutes to the start of the exams.

Brainiac was unflustered. I told him that he could leave the exam venue after the minimum stipulated 40 minutes if he felt that he had done all that he could for the paper. He came out 45 minutes later. The 5 minutes was just so to please me. Sweet thing!

A parent sitting next to me in the waiting area had other ideas for her daughter. She proudly proclaimed that her daughter was strictly told not to leave the exam venue till the entire duration of the paper is up! Never mind if she has checked, re-checked and are absolutely certain of her answers!

See . . . I don't blame you all. Us parents are sometimes such painful entities. We don't make a lot of sense, do we?

You are thought of ...

2008-10-28T15:02:00.004+08:00

By now, you should have maybe about 6 more papers to go? By my reckoning, this is about the time when the full meaning of what the 'O' level exam is all about, begins to kick in. Yeah . . . some of you might be experiencing the rotten feeling of not having prepared as well as you would like, to tackle what's left looming ahead. Some of you might be licking wounds sustained from last week's papers . . . Some of you might just be wondering how you are ever going to find the energy and nerves to make it past 11 November 2008 . . .

Well, . . . people before you have done it and emerged none the worse from the whole thing. So, YOU CAN DO IT TOO!! I remember how when I used to run weekly 10 km through the rough terrains of McRitchie Reservoir, around the mid-way 5 km mark, I often just wanted to throw in the towel. My legs screamed STOP, my head said, WHY TRY SO HARD? And it was so tempting to just slow down and walk or give up when I saw my fitter friends way ahead of me. But you know what, I knew that the effort would be worth it ---- the calories burnt, a fitter body, the camaraderie with fellow runners over nice ice-kacang after the run, and the discipline it developed in me.

Similarly, the heart, pain and sweat you put into your 'O' levels will ultimately bear sweet fruits for you. Persevere, my Integretarians! Final lap! Think of post 11 Nov!

You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Good Luck!

2008-10-20T19:53:00.003+08:00

This is it, people of 4 Integ . . . the real McCoy tomorrow! Do your best! I wish for you a fair paper 1 and 2, and alert minds to tackle them to the best of your abilities. Manage your time well and stay focused on the tasks at hand. Re-read and check what you have written. Remind yourself to answer ALL parts to a question. Do not squander your time on difficult questions . . . move on to tackle the others and then come back to them later. Keep to given word limits and check to remove careless grammar mistakes. 'Own words' mean just what they say . . . do not pretend that you didn't note them!

Best wishes people! Will pray for you.

2008-10-17T09:47:00.003+08:00

I hit the gym today . . . well not really 'hit' it in a big way. Afterall, I have been lazy and away from serious exercise for the longest time ever . . . Met a couple of old (literally!) kakis ---- still diligently pounding away daily on the treadmills at speeds, distances and gradients that put me to great shame! I tell you, getting in shape for that must-die dinner date or to-be-seen-at Christmas party is one thing, but religiously keeping one's body in good and healthy shape 3651/4 days speaks something else about self-discipline and perseverence!

As I did my torturing toning rounds at the gym machines, I thought of you all, my kids and my life in the past year. Yeap, I had done a decent job doing my level best to influence everyone for the better. I really look forward to seeing how everyone's year-end results will bear testimony to all the efforts. You people's too. Half of my kids' results have come in; and I'm happy with them. I've also reflected on their personal growth. Okay, must admit that there's room for a lot more improvement . . . but then again, those are my standards.

Love, hugs, kisses and well wishes

2008-10-14T18:28:00.002+08:00

All's very quiet on the MSN and blog tag box fronts. I know that you are all poring over your textbooks, notes and TYS, busy preparing for the 'O' levels. Good luck, fellas and gals! Remember, steady people. . . Do not panic. Plan your answers. Use context clues even for non-EL subjects. Time management is important. Do not leave blanks. Write over blank-o parts of your answers.

Do your best!! I shall remember you all in my prayers!

Commencement it is

2008-10-11T11:19:00.004+08:00

Rightly said . . . last evening's ceremony should be more appropriately called your Commencement instead of Graduation Ceremony. Well . . . get the spirit of the message that we want to convey to you all: the end of your Secondary education should not mark the conclusion of your learning journey.

You have a life ahead of you. Live it to the fullest and we wish you all the very best.

"Life is a great big canvas, and you should throw all the paint on it you can."
- Danny Kaye -

Haha! Kind of brings back memories of our English In Art lessons this year ---- how you poured over nude art works and other art forms, . . . how we sang to Starry Nights and tried to understand Van Gogh . . .

I had fun. I hope that you had too and that your experiences at HIHS will stand you in good stead for things to come.

The transience of most things

2008-10-06T16:11:00.003+08:00

It is said that an Eastern monarch once charged his wise men to invent him a sentence to be ever in view, and which should be true and appropriate in all times and situations. They presented him the words: "And this, too, shall pass away."
- Abraham Lincoln -

Dear class, as you stay at home to frantically revise for the O level, I want you to stay focused. During this time, you may be irritated by people, passing comments, anxieties and mood swings, but remember, these shall pass away. Try and stay on track to tackle the more important things. Do not hesitate to seek solace in, and find your bearings from your God, friends and the stable core values in you.

Today, I encountered a thank-less soul and then a cheer-less one. One of those days . . . but I remember that this day shall just pass away too even if I choose to be bothered by them. So, I live and let live . . .

2008-10-04T18:39:00.002+08:00

Hello everyone!
I think we should follow judy example and give thanks !
Thanks guys, for the wonderful years !
Although we may be uncertain, un-united at times.
But hey! We got the sprit yo!
Its the end of Sec life,but not the end of our friendships!

I would also like to thank the behind gang clique.
Without u guys, there will be little laughter left in my life
Thanks for all the sorrows shared and the laughter spread
Three cheers for 4 int !

View =)

2008-10-03T18:11:00.003+08:00

Hey all! Guess today marks the end of our secondary school life eh? Well, I'm going to miss secondary school life.

I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone, teachers and students alike for these 2 wonderful years in 3 and 4 Integrity. No doubt, I have fond memories of you guys, having so much laughter and joy while we were studying. It really is a pleasure to be in this class. I hope you guys also had as much fun as I had, but if you don't, then that's your problem already =)

At the same time, I also want to apologize for people I made angry. I'm truly sorry about those times. And about me being a vulgarian, if you know what that means, I hope you guys won't take it to heart. Its just my nature. Haha, but I hope to change that someday. As for pranks and other mischievous stuff that I have caused or created, I would also like to say I'm sorry.

And before I end off this post, to all students of 4 Integrity, GOOD LUCK FOR YOUR 'O' LEVELS!!!

God bless you all,
Jude

2008-09-30T17:00:00.008+08:00

Yo, children of 4 Integrity, Happy Children's Day tomorrow! I dedicate to you Destiny's Child "Stand Up For Love" video and song. Here's wishing that in our lives, we will see an end to hopelessness, giving up and suffering. Let's all stand up for life!!

Music Video:STAND UP FOR LOVE (by Destiny's Child)

Music Video Code provided by Video Code Zone

A brush with disappointment

2008-09-24T17:26:00.002+08:00

It was not planned. I had not expected it. Today, I walked into a class full of unmotivated young boys and girls who were rude to the core. I asked that they accord themselves self-respect by conducting themselves appropriately. I should have known better. They didn't care . . . Most looked resigned and totally uninterested. Some thought by being defiant, they could somehow draw some meanings into their existence.

I was tempted to blow my top. Good thing I didn't.

Now, what could be bugging these spirited souls? Energy, they sure have a lot of . . . If only they could learn to channel it to doing the right things.

Vagabond gone

2008-09-16T17:56:00.003+08:00

Went to get my ice cream supply and also to check out the vagabond last seen residing along the nearby vacant shophouse corridor. This is my fourth check already. Nope, he's no more living there. His dirty-looking plastic chair is still there, but the row of shop house units have recently been white-washed. Guess some new tenants will be moving in soon. Perhaps someone had beaten me to it and got the Ministry of Community Development to put him up somewhere comfortable. Hmmmm . . . hope so. His gangrenous feet need looking into and good grief, how does one pass time seated all day in an uncomfortable chair?

What is your excuse this time?

2008-09-14T21:17:00.004+08:00

I finally completed marking your narrative essays. I wanted to keep my word to you that I shall have them graded and returned to you tomorrow during our lesson. But you know what? I counted only 26 scripts turned in. This means that 15 of you either didn't bother to write the essays or could not be bothered to hand them in. What excuse did you give yourself this time? You were too tired? Too distracted by your other subject revisions? Nothing to write about? . . .
You did promise me that if I let you off that Tuesday afternoon, you would exercise self-discipline and complete the task at home. What became of that promise?

Let me share with you the thing about refusing to put in that ounce of hard work and sacrifice to meet deadlines and turn in work reflecting your best ability put in. Many amongst us think that when the time comes for us to write that essay to save our lives, we will be able to do it. But you know what? . . . That self-drive and discipline that are not put in practice for too long will fail you in life and be your stumbling blocks. Procastination is a terrible thing; it will become your bad habit and a difficult thing to shed.

Like I've told you many times in jest in class: how we would shudder when that surgeon who is supposed to operate on us had flippantly said, "Wait . . ." while he attends to some other unimportant whims that distract him? Or if he had not given of his best when he was assigned a case to attend to?

People, take pride in doing your best in all your undertakings! Focus. Exercise self-discipline. You'll be surprised that you can find time to accomplish set tasks and still have time left over to pursue other things.

Try it.

Get Amped

2008-09-13T16:33:00.002+08:00

I did the unthinkable today ---- brought the boys to a 'Get Amped Fighter's Jam Party' at Suntec City Mall today. I had to see first hand what the online games fraternity like about their virtual preoccupations. Wow . . . the queue to register for the sparring took an hour and 15 minutes altogether. And you know what, all players who turned up were males. The only females were the organisers, 2 other mothers and myself! The players' ages? Well, all of them were Primary and Secondary School students. I'm not sure if their parents know what they are doing on a Saturday afternoon when the year-end school exams are just around the corner. According to my 2 other sons, their brother is supposed to be quite a 'pro'. I am not very sure about that ---- he got knocked out pretty fast. His excuse was that he unfortunately drew a match line-up against a super good player. Anyway, . . .they had some kicks meeting some avaters face on at the venue. I let them stay on to watch the other 'good' players at work for a while. When it was time (my reckoning of reasonable dosage of this kind of activity), we left. I treated them to bubble tea and McDonalds. I was happy that none of the boys threw tantrums nor showed me the stink eye. Virtual games, . . . I reminded them ---- they must remain just light past-times. The reality is: your family, loved ones, studies, jobs to hold down and a whole life of experiences waiting for you to savour!

Lonely hearts club

2008-09-10T06:45:00.003+08:00

I see men --- all types --- walking hand in hand with nubile Vietnamese girls evidently out to make the best money out of their social visit passes to our country. I wonder . . . What goes through the minds of these men? Okay, most of the girls are very attractive, groomed and dressed for lustful eyes. And from what I can see, they really seem to treat their paying males very well: lovingly hooked arms, walking discernable half-steps behind . . . and all. They are coy, demure and certainly smile a lot. Probably sing well too, some of them. Must be wonderful mates for drinking and karaoke sessions or just simply to take strolls under the neon lights of the entertainment establishments with--- trophies to boost one's feel-good and man image. How else do you explain why old men and middle-aged ones flock nightly to certain habitats to part with their money in this manner? If I know us Singaporeans, it must be considered money well spent. These foreign ladies of the night must be quite something. Perhaps, like hearsay, they are a whole lot gentler, understanding and nicer to our men.

Well, men, I hope you know what you're in for . . . STDs, possibly strains to family commitments, and defintely the transience of all these fleeting experiences. There is only so much that lonely hearts can be assuaged in this manner . . .

2008-09-08T16:49:00.001+08:00

Hello, View here,

Look guys, i wish we could settle this hoodies things fast.
Come on, cooperate
those who give money le, THANKS ALOT.
Those who have not, please , PLEASE , give alvin soon.
We are not desperate, but we seriously been doing this thing for over a month le.
I wish for your cooperation,
Thanks , =)

Neglected

2008-09-07T13:18:00.002+08:00

Had information that two fine young men I know are wasting their lives away. Not entirely their faults, I believe. They are a sad tale of a family torn asunder by divorce, and I'm sure it is not and will not be the last we'll hear of in our society. I had hoped fervently that the kids would find strength somehow to pick up the broken pieces brought on by the adults. But alas, that is not to be. Jin is now in ITE, but not mixing with the right crowd. Zhan, I understand has been retained, and has made it a habit to stay away from home till the early hours of the morning. I heard that they have done cigarettes, engaged in disruptive behaviour in school, and heaven forbid, those are all the vices that I hope they are indulging in. Their care-givers, I'm sure are grieved by their behaviours. I wonder if they ever regret fighting for custody of the two. The estranged mother does not want to show it, but we all know that she is bleeding in her heart.

It's really pointless dissecting the matter over and over again . . .asking all the "what ifs" and mouthing all the "I told you so-s"

I feel helpless. Besides the power of prayer, I wish that I could do something . . .

Duty dinners

2008-09-03T00:06:00.003+08:00

So sorry about missing our 6 to 7 pm full session again. Got recalled for me wifey duty at some work dinner with the Significant Other. I was actually quite tired after a full day of workshop at a hotel near our Singapore River. Thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful motivational speaker and her tons of wisdom. Also took an invigorating brisk walk along our river enroute to the nearby Central MRT Station. Yes, all in my nice power suit and three and half inch heels! Had to summon help from one of the daughters when a heavy downpour held me up on my walk home. After that, I managed a little MSN with some of you. Please don't be discouraged. I'm still fine-tuning our online sessions and look forward to using this platform to engage you in EL and etc discussions. If anything, it'll be a good way for us to communicate!

About "duty dinners" --- I generally do not enjoy this kind of socialising. I'm an introvert, really. Surprised? The Significant Other is not very cooperative. He has been known to drag me to private dinner invites with moi as the only female!! He has that much confidence in me as a social butterfly and intelligent companion! zzzZZZZZZ . . . . .

I'm tired. Will be meeting an old friend for lunch tomorrow. Ah . . . I look forward to it. The young ones at home are also looking forward to it. With evil mother out of the house, it'll be FREEDOM!

Recycling

2008-08-30T14:25:00.002+08:00

Last week was the culmination of a recycling competition at the boys' school. It was quite hilarious for us at home. We don't drink sugared nor carbonated drinks at our house. So there were no soft drink cans for the young ones to turn it to boost their class recycling tally. There were only Heineken beer and one Tongkat Ali energy drink (some door gift we received!). I volunteered to drink some beer in the name of recycling. :) !! My drinking rate was deemed disatisfactory. The boys think that they should contribute by consuming beer too!! Wah, of course permission was denied! As for the Tongkat Ali drink, the Significant Other had to do his recycling bit for the children. Any damage done ?. . . You'll have to graduate from Sec 4 before I even broach the matter.

Maiden MSN Session

2008-08-29T07:04:00.003+08:00

Thanks to all who met up online last evening to try out our MSN EL session. I just learnt how to use another aspect of computer functions! I'm empowered! My children of course shuddered at how I intended to uphold all grammar rules while MSN-ing. Hmm. . . it's afterall kind of an English session. So let's just try and keep to the sacred purpose of being as grammatical as we can, can? Only one hour of stiff good English. I'll permit occasional slips into MSN lingo.

I realise that the group online sessions will offer wonderful opportunities to chat and exchange friendly banters. I like it. Wonderful opportunities to get all the online socialising we need to ....er, boost our net replacement rates??? Haha! I'm pro-family! But I'll be trying to introduce some discussion threads relevant to helping us prepare for the 'O' levels. I hope that you will keep to the spirit of this online platform and participate responsibly. You are also strongly encouraged to clarify any doubts you may have about EL and share your views. I'll do my best to asssist you.

Okay, got to let you know that I shan't be signing in to tonight's session as I'll be making my way to the Teacher's Day Dinner. The theme is "Rewind the '50s'. I've prepared my outfit. You'll love me --- flare skirt, tight sweater top, horn-rimmed glasses, hair band, socks and sneakers, liquid black eyeliner and all, . . . ready to "sh00-warb" and do the 'fish' to '50s hits!! Haha! dressing up is fun! I never quite grew out of this child-like favourite!

Just wondering how your Cross-country will go in a while. Hope that the weather goes well for you. My 6 had a hectic start to the day this morning: one had to decorate his classroom super-early, one will be participating in a rope-skipping competition, another putting up a dance performance and the other 2 busily putting gifts together. The wimpy one is still sleeping. Got to do up his apple gifts later. Whew!

MSN newbee

2008-08-28T13:19:00.002+08:00

Sigh!'Quantum leap' is taken. I'm settling for 'quantosaurus@hotmail.com' for my MSN hotmail account. I guess only dinosaurs would want such names. N'er mind! So on ah. . . Let's meet online 6 to 7 pm daily, starting this evening. I guess you'll know when I'm not available.

Happy holidays, people!

Dogs age too

2008-08-27T09:18:00.003+08:00

Haiz . . . saw an old Golden retriever lying in the middle of the road in the neighbourhood, at the risk of being mowed down by the huge trucks and passing vehicles. He would usually be lying on the open car park lots at the side of the road, basking in the morning sun and lazily taking in the morning rush taking place in the vicinity. He has no collar on him, but he looks well-fed. I would often smile at him, envying the good life he must be having. But his morning, he was at the wrong place, salivating like crazy and something didn't look right. I stopped my car, honked at him and waved other traffic on to avoid him being run down. Got the daughter to nudge him up from the middle of the road. Then we saw that he was hurt. The hind leg's giving him some problem. And he was sitting on his own muck! He must be sick . . . Anyway, shooed him back to his usual resting spot. At least he would be safe till I contact the SPCA to attend to him! Which I did.

See, age is even cruel to dogs.

2008-08-25T18:21:00.002+08:00

You heard me today. I will not be in school tomorrow and on Wednesday. All of you should complete the Comprehension questions (yes, including the Summary question) at home and hand it in to me on Thursday when we meet for our EL lesson. You will also be given another set of Compre paper tomorrow to provide you with more practice during the freed up MT lesson slots. I know, it sounds like an over-kill. But take it in your stride. Try and complete your work in school, and leave only the minimal to be done at home. That way, you'll be able to get sufficient rest too. No can do? CanNNNNNNNNN!! Just be less distracted in class and remind me not to distract you. Wuaahhhhhhh, I sometimes lead you astray. SIGH! So little time, so many fun stuff to share with you!

Coffee, please

2008-08-23T15:02:00.002+08:00

I had a brush with the ugly Singaporean somewhat like the experience of the polite retiree gentleman who ordered coffee at a local foodcourt with a sunny, "Coffee, please". He was actually mocked and made fun of for his un-Singaporean 'jiak garng tarng" mannerism.

Well, I pointed out to a young male driver that he should not be parking illegally on our roads and blocking access to a private property. He feigned ignorance. I explained the meanings behind our double yellow prohibition lines. He stared at me. I thought I'll hit the message home with a typical Singaporean scare tactic: that the Traffic Police will fine him! He simply let his wife and child in tow alight, wave his arm rudely at me and said, "Ne'er mind!!" I suppose he meant that he has the money and can therefore occupy any space on our roads!

The gracious Singaporean --- an elusive entity!

2008-08-20T19:28:00.002+08:00

At the risk of being 'killed' by my learned colleagues in the staff room, I share with you the following saying (author unknown):

"If I had ony one day left to live, I would live it in my Maths class: it would seem so much longer."

Muahahahaaaa!! Ms Q, you're bad!!

One down, two more to go

2008-08-18T18:38:00.002+08:00

Hurray, EL Oral's done! Now you can take a breather and then work strategically towards the Essay and Comprehension papers. Now, let's make this clear: we shall not waste a minute of our EL lessons starting from this week's slots. Pay attention as I do the error analyses for our Prelim papers. It's pointless how some of you repeat old mistakes, and just would not wisen up to better ways of writing essays and rendering compre answers. Of course, you are tired after the very tedious Pre-lims. I understand. I shall try to be succint and "power-packed" in my teaching and revision, but you must promise to seriously concentrate on seeking improvements. It takes two to tango, and between you and I, we can make the GCE "O' levels bear us impressive results at the end of this academic year! How sweet the outcome will be . . .

Happy Birthday indeed

2008-08-15T18:35:00.002+08:00

I'm so touched. You sweet people actually bought me a cake and made my day! Quite subtle too with the 2 candles [you're two old (read 'too' old, Miss Q!!)]. Well, I made a compound wish (greedy me!) for good PSLE results for my son, excellent GCE 'O"level results for you all, and of course, World Peace! Haha! So "Miss Congeniality"!

Hope that your Oral went well today. Now about Monday --- lessons will resume, and we are scheduled to have our EL period at 1130 hrs. Not sure if we'll be missing that as you people may be involved in a talk in the hall. So, tell you what, can I come during your recess time, just to see the Monday Oral folks, in case?? Please reply me in this class blog C-box, can?

My birthday so far? Well, I've not spent very much of it with the family yet. The kids were all off to school super-early. There's also going to be a dance class tonight. So I guess, we'll probably make up for the celebration during the weekend. The helper made us all wonderful fish and chips, potato wedges, salad and all, though! Umm. . . yummy dinner! The workaholic Significant Other would probably wake me up for a birthday chat LATE tonight when he knocks off from work. That chirpy late night gallivant of a guy ---- very irritating (okay, said with endearment!) Haha, so mushy, huh?!

Have a good weekend. Recharge for next week's post Prelim analyses.

Congrats!

2008-08-12T18:43:00.002+08:00

Dear people. Congrats! On my way out of school for the "O" level Oral Exams, I stole quick glances at the results board. Saw at least 3 'A1s' from our class for the Mother Tongue paper. Wow, well done! Did everyone obtain their expected results? N'er mind if you didn't and want to strive for better grades. Have another go! But you realise that time management will then need serious focusing on. Let's work on more self-motivation and discipline!

About the Oral Prep I mentioned for the 15th of August 2008 ---- I wish to confirm that I shall be waiting outside the Staff Workroom (Spiral Stairway) at 10 am to have a last run-through and practice with those who want to "warm-up" before their oral exams that day. All are welcomed to attend. I would really like to see the following: Kenneth, Yixuan, Karen, Malvin, Yi Peng, Lionel, Mu-chen, Junhan, Chun Wee, Mun Lok, Ivan, Jude and Lenson. But I'm not going to compel anyone. You must feel comfortable and good for your 'O' level EL Oral Exam that day. I think I'll be able to see you up till about 12 noon before you are "locked up". For people who will only be taking the oral exams on the 18th, I shall do the same at 10 am on that morning.

I'm a little "gan jiong" for you. Motherly instinct kicking in!

Comprehension Paper best wishes

2008-08-11T14:52:00.002+08:00

To one and all: all the best for your Comprehension Paper tomorrow! Read all questions carefully. Study the alloted marks and give befitting answers. Do not beat about the bush. Remember "excess denied". For vocabulary questions, remember to use your "or" and "and" to judiciously link given answers. Manage your time wisely to give attention to the 25-mark summary question. Use your own words to write the summary in one paragaph. Proof-read for tense, spelling, punctuation and other grammar errors.

Give of your best!

Right in the face

2008-08-08T07:41:00.002+08:00

All schools are celebrating National Day today. I had to chauffer all 6 to school and MRT stations this morning. One has to take part in some Amazing Race, another a Cross Country Race at the beach and the rest, concerts and mini-parades in their schools. The cupboards at home have been emptied of our red T-shirts. School books have been put away as we start getting into the swing of the long-weekend holiday mood. We'll be hyping ourselves up with Singapore songs from later on till National Day. We'll probably be dancing to the songs and music when we watch the Parade live on TV (but, we've first to get hold of one!) Yeah for Singapore ---- all 43 largely good years!! Majulah Singapura!

I suggested cheekily to the Cross Country Race one that I should perhaps "accompany" her by sun-taning at the beach while she competes in the race. Yep, I shall dig up that old bikini lying at the bottom of the closet, spread me picnic mat and read at the beach . . . just like old times! Everyone in the car this morning recoiled in horror. Don't forget to put a paper bag over your head, Mum, they chorused!

They sure don't mince their words! Okay, look on the bright side, honesty is a virtue . . .

Good sounds

2008-08-06T08:37:00.002+08:00

I read with interest how a Japanese researcher claims that mantras chanted can bring about 'good water molecules' while curses make 'bad water molecules'. A Tibetan monk picked up from that, and recommended that we can actually purge our systems of toxic elements by chanting certain utterances and willing a simple thought process. Hmm . . . interesting.

We all know that a positive environment better nurtures desired growth and bring about fruition of potentials. So, the correct thing to do is to surround ourselves (that is, if we can help it) with optimistic and encouraging people. And of course, try and dabble in healthy pursuits. Whenever this is not possible, we should then try and counter any negative influences by building up the goodness and positive energy in us. Remember, to a large extent, we can control our attitudes and reactions to situations. Try it!

Thinking of you all as you tackle your Pre-lims. Wishing you well and looking forward to getting you in best shape for the "O"s!

This family went to the Getai

2008-08-04T07:02:00.002+08:00

After dinner, I rounded the family plus helper to watch the Getai staged in our neighbourhood. Wow, the place was packed. Unlike the days of yore, I noted that there was a noticeable number of migrant workers from China, Bangladesh, India and other nationalities in the audience. They were clearly enjoying this respite from the week's hard work. Hmm, I thought to myself: our social landscape has definitely changed. A rare evening breeze boosted the comfort factor of the setting. Everyone was enjoying the gig. Don't 'pray' 'pray' hoh. Although it was a modest set-up compared to the bigger ones you'll see elsewhere in our heartlands, I noticed that they had super-good sound systems. Never mind that the lighting man was perched precariously on a make-shift structure above an electricity meter box. He controlled the spotlight most professionally. Even rigged up some laser effects too! The audience lapped up every evergreen and new hit belted by the singers. They were good. Some were actors, actresses and singers of the soon-to-be released locally produced movie,"12 Lotus". The "Ah Peks" "choped" the front seats (hmm . . . I didn't understand this bit. I thought that they were meant for other "guests"??). You and I know why. There were lots of gyrations and titillating flesh shown. Haha!

That's our Seventh Month. I wish though that there could be the big-time Opera performances like during my time . . . I would then be able to take my 6 down memory-lane and wow them with my on-the-spot translations of the dialect classics!

08.08.08

2008-08-03T18:00:00.003+08:00

So, will you be joining the queues to place your bets at Singapore's luckiest Toto outlet this 08.08.08? I teased my children and asked them if we should give it a go. After all, the prize money would be a whopping $8 million! Wow, imagine all that cash! Nah, that would be gambling, wouldn't it? It would be placing good money on buying a dream that has a very slim chance of materialising. Yep, the younger ones think that I should get them Maplestory pre-paid cards instead! SIGH!

How romantic! Some couples are thinking of saying "I do" on 08.08.08. I hinted to the Significant Other how sweet people who are in love can be. He rolled his eye balls. I get the hint. I knew that the Global Positioning System he got me on our last wedding anniversary kind of signalled the end of the lovey dovey stage for us. SIGH! . . .

2008-08-02T22:13:00.009+08:00

These are the measurements for our class hoodies.

(Click to enlarge)

Measurement in inch.

1 inch = 2.5cm

Note that :

Not every garment may match these exact measurements due to acceptable measurement tolerances. Any quality issues concerning product measurements should be reported to the wholesaler from which the garment was purchased.

Click here for preview of colours

Think of a nickname for yourself.

The nickname will be printed with the logo in front of the hoody.

Each hoody should be $35, the logo in front and the crossword printed at the back.

* Any enquires feel free to ask Alvin.

* The design will be out after our prelims. Minghui and Stephen are in charge of the designs, feel free to give any idea or comment.