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亲恩难忘悼念慈母

2011-07-09T16:53:00.012+08:00

这篇日记写得不容意。三天前是妈妈的生日，但她却在六月十八日因病往生了。之前她因为癌痛到沒法好好地坐吃睡而入院十日接受治疗。医生估计妈妈还有两个月的寿命。当时我因先生长居在外国公干，早已按排我在假期带孩子们去探望他。其实我心里真的很不愿意过去，很难受。虽然天天都会打电话或传短讯给妹妹问她妈妈的情况，也落泪了几次，如今仍然还后悔没选择留在妈妈的身边，和爸爸妹妹一起一心一意，日日夜夜寸步不离，无微不至地守在她身旁照顾她，安慰她。

我和孩子们六月十三日回国后，便搬到娘家去。那时妈妈的情况日渐恶化，病情严重到不能饮食，不能说话，眼睛打不开，手脚发软，全身痛到极点，每几个小时就必须硬吞我们慢慢用注射器喂她的吗啡才能休息，实在辛苦到我們沒法形容。过后，她也开始发烧, 还有幻觉，半清醒状态。出院后没能马上找到善终护理和租到病床, 直到三四天后才有医生和护士来看她。我们不能把妈妈的痛苦拿走，又不能完全理解她的须要，真的不知如何让她好过些。

六月十五日那天，我为妈妈抹身，她突然说要冲凉。对我们来说很意外，因为她已很久没法没力坐着了。我们有些担心，但还是随她愿，那也是我们最后一次帮她从头到脚好好地梳洗一番。隔天后一些妹妹的好友和工作伙伴来探望妈妈，让她知到她可以放心安心，不必担心我们，由其是和她心心相印的妹妹。大家都安慰她，答应会好好照顾和爱护妹妹。我也一样会尽我一切能力去照顾爸爸，妹妹和两个孩子。我们看到妈妈的眼角含着掉不出的眼泪。

六月十八日早上，妈妈便离开人间。她临终前我们都在她身边。那天早上，她醒后我们马上喂她吃药，因为她那晚睡了蛮久，止痛药一定早就沒功力了。吃过药后，妹妹和我为妈妈抹脸洗牙。过后，我去隔壁房间查看孩子，妹妹留在妈妈身旁。爸爸进房安慰她。过一阵子，妹妹叫我进来，因为妈妈张开双眼，望着贴在书架的菩萨画像。我们握着她的手，齐心念着“南無啊弥陀佛”。妈妈喘息一口气，我们在旁一直不断念着佛号，我的小女儿也一起念。慢慢的妈妈便闭上眼。过后，我的大女儿睡梦醒后也坐在外婆身旁念。念佛号念了两小时，我们还不能确定妈妈是否已往生，因为我们好像看到她的心和肺有轻微的起伏。最后，我们决定打电话给善终护理院。经过妹妹的检验后，善终护理院工作人员认为我们应该打电话请医生来确定。医生证实后，我就去警察局办死亡证书，而妹妹安排五福寿板店帮我们办理后事。

之后，其实发生一连串的小障碍：计程车载我们去错地方，找不到寿板店。寿板店老板人很友善，服務也非常周到，但就是有點太快了。层压媽媽的死亡证书后才发现警察人员疏忽，警察人员沒在证书的签名，我們要回去警察局。到了警属，警察人员們還說風涼話，经过半小时多的功夫才稍微把证书弄开。本来他们硬要弄开更大好签在中间，但我看再拉就会破，便阻止他们，要警察人员把名签在印章旁边。我們也要求他們寫一份報告，但他們不肯，还好妹妹把一切录影下来做证物。一办好这事后，我们接到通知。寿板店已经把帐篷搭好了，送饮料的，卖供养品的，还有花店也送花来了。我们就从警察局跑回家。

忙呀忙到下午，寿板店把妈妈送回家。我们依佛教仪式举办五天丧葬。第二，三，四晚都请三位法师为母诵经，每晚都会诵《地藏菩薩本願經》和唱诵“南無啊弥陀佛”。和师父一起为妈妈诵经带来很大的安慰。

我们很感谢朋友的宽心和幫助，由其是Gail, 泉裕师兄一家，Pearlyn，Jenny，Joslene。还有Gail和Susan一夜不眠帮我们折金纸。Thank you!

最后我想再给妈妈磕三個头，再说声：谢谢您，妈。您的养育之恩，我会永生不忘。您的爱和勇气永远在心里。我們永遠愛你，您一路好走。

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T11:33:00.000+08:00

I wish all mothers a Happy Mother's Day.

Thank you mum for giving me a life. I love you.

Featured in Mother & Baby Magazine April's Edition

2011-04-09T21:43:00.005+08:00

Thanks to Mother & Baby Magazine for the interview and feature in April's 2011 edition. To celebrate International Children's Book Day (2nd April), there is a special write-up on authors and illustrators of children's books. It is a privilege to be in the spotlight amongst many other literary luminaries including my very favorite Emily Gravett, award-winning picturebook creator.

As I did not get the opportunity to read the article before it went to press, I had not been able to edit it. The article opens with: 'This artistic stay-at-home mum returned to her first love - fine art - thanks to her husband's frequent work trips.' I just want to point out that my art and passion for children's literature has nothing to do with my partner's frequent work trips. I apologise if there was something that I said during the interview that suggested the idea.

I rekindled with art and illustrate because I found salvation in them. Now, they are my lifeblood. Without art, children's literature and stories, my life will be lacking of some meanings and hope. I draw, paint and illustrate at any available time - sometimes alone, sometimes with the presence of other family members.

I don't expect anyone to understand why there is a need for me to correct the inference. It took me a while to finally write about it here because I was honestly worried that the writer may be offended with my clarification. However, I must and I really appreciate and enjoy the article ... and hope you will too.

今天我想回家

2011-01-12T22:28:00.000+08:00

明天媽媽會入院，星期五進行一個大手術。醫生說有必要把腫瘤切除才有可能避免脊椎骨斷折導致瘫痪。媽媽在2007年7月間切除了半個肺，過後一直都在接受化療及中醫治療。我們只能祈求上帝保佑媽媽，平安渡過難關。也祈求上帝保佑爸爸和妹妹。

明天也是小女兒的生日。一眨眼，她七歲了。

可能你會問我為何以中文編寫今天的思绪？我想是因為我今天想回家了吧。

Watch Guai Wu The Chinese Elf at the library

2011-01-08T23:03:00.004+08:00

Guai Wu The Chinese Elf has been adapted into a Chinese play - The Kind 'Monster'! Thanks to our National Library Board and NTU (Nanyang Technological University) Chinese Society for the wonderful news to start a new year.

You can find more information on Asian Children's Festival website -
http://www.asianchildrenfest.com/monster.htm

Also in January's Go Kids newsletter (page 3). Grab your copy at the libraries or view online for more programmes.

(Click on the images for full view.)

Hope to see you at the shows!

* Marine Parade Public Library - Sunday, 9 January 2011, 3.00 to 4.30pm.

* Jurong Regional Library (Children's Actitvity Zone) - Saturday, 15 January, 3.00 to 4.30pm.

* Bedok Public Library (Programme Zone)- Sunday, 16 January 2011, 3.00 to 4.30pm.

BookfFest@Singapore 2010 & Concert of Hope

2010-12-10T10:13:00.000+08:00

BookFest@Singapore is here again which means it's time to buy BOOKS!

With its theme "Reading Embraces the World", BookFest@Singapore 2010 seeks to expand horizons through a greater exchange of knowledge, culture and ideas. The mega book fair thus presents a multitude of reading and learning opportunities for everyone, with new releases, local and overseas author appearances, educational talks as well as guest appearances by celebrities.

Talking about author appearances. two of my favourite children's book writers will be at the fair to delight children (and adults).

Ken Spillman, author of the popular Jake's series, will be appearance on the 10th (Friday, 2.30pm) and 11th (Saturday) at the Scholastic booth. He will be launching his new third book "Jake's Balloon Blast". Jake has ALWAYS dreamt of flying, and he knows that he can- it's just a matter of HOW. What he need is: *A great plan *The right stuff *His friend Johan. Can jake get his BIG dream off the ground?

Adeline Foo, Singapore's well-loved author of "The Diary of Amos Lee", will also be having a book signing session on the 11th (Saturday, 6pm) and 13th (Sunday, 1pm) at Marketasia booth.

Have a good time at the fair. Where: Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre

I am off to attend Concert of Hope - to raise funds for Angkor Children's Hospital, tonight and tomorrow. Information and tickets are still available.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Singapore/Dance-Spectrum-International/147720235257928#!/event.php?eid=103576459708400

Be the first to catch this Dance Extravaganza, put together by 240 students from Dance Spectrum International, aged 4 to 21. This concert includes award-winning dance items from local & overseas dance competitions in Ballet, Tap, Modern and Jazz.

All proceeds & donations will go to Angkor Hospital for Children (AHC), Cambodia. They provide free medical treatment to children up to 16 yo. The proceeds will directly benefit children who need immediate heart surgeries. More information on AHC can be found on www.angkorhospital.org

Stay well.

Happy Diwali with Amos Lee

2010-11-03T12:27:00.001+08:00

Wishing you in advance Happy Diwali or Deepavali as we call it in Singapore.

Adeline Foo, my author for my picture book G uai Wu The Chinese Elf, will be launching her third Amos Lee book entitled 'I'm twelve. I'm tough, I Tweet!' this Saturday 6 November at Kinokuniya Bookshop at Takashimaya (Orchard Road). Do join her and her 'animated' Singapor-ish character Amos Lee to find out what both of them are up to this time!

You can also catch them a second time at Borders on the 13th November.

Have fun!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T23:04:00.001+08:00

A day away from my drawing easel. Hannah finished her exam last Thursday so I took her, Heather and my neighbour's daughter Yuri (kids' best friend from Japan) out today.

We had some special Chinese dumpling noodles (originated from Pontian, Malaysia) at the hawker centre in Marine Parade. Then we went to find a proper fish tank for our five little fishes which were given to us by Heather's teacher when they were a day old. They have grown since and kind of out grow the old acrylic tank. Tank is out of stock so we bought some aquatic plants instead!

We had a lovely time chatting at Coffeebean. We bummed into Heather's classmate's family, but her classmate is sick and was resting at home. After grocery shopping, we headed home. The girls went swimming, while I prepared dinner - spaghetti was on our menu tonight. We brought our food to Yuri's house and dined together with Mariko and Kiseung. After dinner, the kids went trick or treat-ing with other children in our condo.

I am glad all had lots of fun and are now nicely tugged under their blankets. Some may be frolicking in their dreamland while others resting contentedly like petals on a peaceful lake.

As for me, it's time to rest my feet and hit the sack. Tomorrow has to be a productive day come rain or shine.

(PS: Just got an email from Cafepress that I just made a sale! Those Chinese Birth Sign tees that I designed with love 5 years ago are still selling. Check them out here on my blog or here in my shops (individual shop for each birth sign). Christmas is just around the corner! So BUY!!!

Reading Jake's Monster Mess

2010-07-24T18:28:00.007+08:00

It has been a very long departure from my blog. Two months and two weeks to be exact. What have I been up to? Well, besides being busy with kids, I have been hiding in my private planet working on my new children's book and learning to become a better illustrator. I have completed the first stage and working on stage two. I have received good feedback but have to think a bit further with the story and characters. It has been another amazing learning experience for me. I wish I can say a bit more but it's a secret for now.

One thing that is not a secret is that Jake's Monster Mess, the follow up title by Australian author Ken Spillman to his Jake's series for junior readers, is out! This time Jake's story takes place in his room which is only slightly messy ... until Dad asks him to tidy it. Unlike in Jake's Gigantic List (which I blogged about some time back) where Jake gets his surprises on his birthday, in this episode, there is a surprise in store for Dad except it isn't the one Jake planned. Hmmm!

Ken's (or Jake's) new little story revolves around everyday situations and ideas that both parents and children can relate to. Chris Nixon again produced some marvellous drawings to complement Ken's playful writing. It's a wonderful read that Heather and I have enjoyed.

Jake's Monster Mess is a book is especially dedicated to every child with good intentions and to parents blessed with an appreciation of them.

Here's an interview from Scholastic about the author that may inspire children who want to become a writer:

Ken Spillman has been writing for publication since his schooldays. His writing includes the acclaimed Young Adult novels, Love is a UFO and Blue, as well as the Jake series for younger readers, which commenced with Jake's Gigantic List and continued with Jake's Monster Mess and Jake's Balloon Blast.

Get to know more about Ken from the interview below.

Who was/is your favourite author? Why?
My list of favourite authors grows longer by the week. Any author who gives me a free pass into another world, and a sense of participation in the lives of others, is a favourite forever. Australian author Scot Gardner, who has written many books for teenagers, does that every time.

Who was your role model when you were in primary school?
An idealist even then, I think I was more interested in ideas than particular people - apart from sporting heroes. When I admired people from history, it was usually for what they said, or for what their actions represented - the anti-slavery campaigners, the people who got voting rights for working people and women, and so on.

Was there a role model in your life who inspired you to start writing?
There was. At 14 and 15, I had an English teacher named Chris Waddell who saw the value of creative writing and took the time to provide detailed, encouraging feedback on every piece I wrote. He took my work seriously, which gave me the confidence to take my own work seriously, and to keep at it.

If you could be a book or cartoon character for a day, who would you be? Why?
Perhaps it's a boring choice, but I wouldn't mind being Superman! I have two reasons… First and foremost, I'd love to be able to fly. Secondly, it would be wonderful to get around the place helping the good people of this world deal with those who are not so good. As a child, I loved the Robin Hood character - taking from the rich to give to the underprivileged.

If you could meet a famous person, who would it be? Why?
Tough question! It's not something I'm particularly interested in. As a fan of sports, however, I would probably choose Roger Federer. There's nothing in particular I'd want to talk about, but I have a feeling that it wouldn't be too hard to just sit together for a while and have coffee.

What are your hobbies?
Reading, browsing around libraries/bookshops, watching sports, travelling overseas, swimming, and enjoying great food and wine in moderation.

What do you enjoy the most about writing?
Creating characters who are real to me in almost every way, and going on some kind of journey with (or through) them. I also like having flexibility in my life with the management of my time - it isn't a 9 to 5 job.

What motivates you to write?
I just love stories, and believe they are important. Ultimately, I guess, I want to make some kind of difference. I want readers to connect with my characters and to take something from that experience. It's great when people email me to say that they have!

Do you have a favourite book that you have read more than once? Why do enjoy this book?
The Little Prince, by Antoine de Saint-Exupery. It's a book I can read every year or two, and find something new that I can immediately connect with my life.

Where is your most favourite place in the world?
Beaches, forests and mountains are all in this contest. But I also yearn for the crowded, noisy, smelly streets of Delhi, where I can feel part of some great, colourful, monstrous, beautiful humanity - yet profoundly alone.

Where do you get your ideas to write?
From anywhere and everywhere. From the things people say and do, from the things I see and feel, from the vast and surprising storehouse of memory.

When did you write your first book or piece?
My first book was a work of non-fiction - a history of Subiaco that I wrote in my early twenties for publication in 1985. Prior to that, I'd had short stories and poems published around Australia and also overseas.

When did your passion for writing begin?
In Year 4, my teacher got the class to write imagined autobiographies - of animals as well as people. I found that I loved escaping into the head of others - seeing a different point of view, and 'experiencing' things that, in real life, I could not. In Years 9 and 10, Chris Waddell empowered me to take that interest further.

A last note to our young readers…
Through reading, you can learn more about people than you will ever learn through talking to them. You can eavesdrop on souls. Don't be put off by books that are just not 'up your alley'… Find the ones that are, and remain open to the occasional side-journey.

Jake's Gigantic List and Jake's Monster Mess are available under Scholastic (call Malaysia 1-300-887818 or Singapore 6510-9000) at MPH Bookshops Malaysia and Times Bookstores Singapore and Fremantle Press (Australia +61-08- 9430-633). The third book - Jake's Balloon Blast - will be released soon!

With that, I shall leave here to return to my planet. Stay well.

(PS - This post is written for Ghaz. Hope that helps in one way or another.)

Back in the studio

2010-05-10T13:00:00.008+08:00

It is lovely to be home again and surrounded by love ones and warm neighbours who fed me delicious prawns even before I set my foot into my own house. I am so blessed.

I am now back in my home studio after 4 intense, invigorating and inspiring days at the Asian Festival of Children's Content (AFCC) organised by the National Book Development Council of Singapore and The Arts House last week.

Big thanks to the organisers as well as the advisors, speakers and presenters who put in their heart and sweat to put together this wonderful event that bring together people who are passionate about children's books. Great appreciation to the speakers who travelled a long way across the oceans with all means (including cycling ... not joking) and feed us with so much information despite being jetlag, attacked by the ferocious Singapore heat and pestered by sales people of exotic food along the quay.

Like Sangeetha, a friend and the author of A Blue Cat's Tale (a beautifully illustrated picture book published by ST Press under the First Time Writer and Illustrator scheme), I was information overloaded! My head too was buzzing with ideas and excitement. I certainly had lots of fun catching up with old friends and meeting new ones whom I hope will grow into old friends the next time we meet again.

While I am compelled to write a long post about the festival, I would like to direct you to Tarie's blog for now. I had the pleasure of meeting Tarie Sabido during the last session which was an open dialog between Asian and Australian publishers, writers and illustrators. Tarie, who lives in the Philippines, has an interesting blog that talks about books set in Asia and books with Asian characters regardless of where they are from.

Tarie's enthusiasm and love for children's literature is infectious of course. Whether you are a writer, an illustrator, a publisher, a mother, a teacher, or simply someone who loves to read, definitely check her blogs out. The names - Asia in The Heart (http://asiaintheheart.blogspot.com) and Color Online (http://coloronline.blogspot.com - a blog focuses on women writers of color for adults young adults (YA) and children.) Super efficient in journaling, Tarie posted her experience at AFCC quicker than anyone in the media! I am blogrolling you!

One more lady whom I had great pleasure meeting is Daphne Lee. Daphne is an advocate in reading in Malaysia. She started blogging about books for children and teens in 2004. You can imagine the sheer amount of resources, researches and information that Daphne had put her heart and soul into, in the name for love for children's literature. It's a must for parents and teachers to spend time at her blog. (Seriously, I command you to!) Her blog is The Places You Will Go (http://daphne.blogs.com). Be ready to be enlighten!

Before I sign off to do more thinking and get more drawings done (I am so behind schedule, it's scary), I would like to share a little bit about my experience with the Asian Parents Forum, which I think is the best way to end the event on Sunday. Why is it the best you may ask? Let me tell you from the perspective of a parent.

I managed to attend two sessions in the morning. One with Dilip Mukerjea of Braindancing International and another with Vikas Malkani of SoulKids and SoulParents.

Both are dynamic speakers who spoke with great wisdom. They are the people who knows children (I would say better than many of us). I have learned so much from them on Mother's Day. Indeed, what a privileged to have children and be around them.

At the end of the sessions, I asked myself one simple question which I think it will take me a lifetime to find out, which is the beauty of it too - What do we understand about children?

Email me if you have any thoughts. I would absolutely love to hear from you.

Have a great week ahead.

Also on www.christinelimsimpson.com.

Asian Festival of Children's Content 2010

2010-05-05T00:58:00.000+08:00

Just a quick update here. I will be attending the Asian Festival of Children's Content (AFCC) organised by The Arts House and the National Book Development Council of Singapore (NBDCS, also know as The Book Council) this week, from 6th to 9th May 2010.

AFCC aims to foster excellence in the creation, production and publication of children materials with Asian content in all formats and facilitate their distribution and access to parents, teachers, librarians and children in Asia as well as the world. For the past 10 years, NBDCS has been organising the Asian Children Writers & Illustrators Conference (ACWIC) to develop new materials for children. With the launch of AFCC, both organisations now aim to expand ACWIC's reach by including new initiatives. The Festival, with a series of innovative programmes, seeks to fill the direct need for quality Asian children content worldwide, particularly in Asia.

I am very excited about it. And so really looking forward to learn new stuff as well as making new friends and catching up with some old ones.

On the 9th May, which is Sunday, there will be a special forum for parents. You can check it out on the website.

Two of my illustrations from Guai Wu The Chinese Elf had been selected for the Book Illustrators’ Gallery (BIG) exhibition, which will be held during AFCC. BIG aims to showcase illustrations from artists from around the region, and is a platform for the promotion of local and regional artists. Their works go beyond genres and borders and contribute towards creating awareness of traditions and heritage. It also helps to publicise the great business potential in creating and distributing Asian content throughout Asia and the rest of the world.

BIG will run from 6 May to 14 May at the Film and Print Galleries, and Box Office Foyer of the festival venue, The Arts House.

Have a great week ahead everyone! Maybe see you at the conference.

Living each day to the fullest

2010-04-21T11:33:00.014+08:00

Hello world! I hope you are all well.

I have been reminded yesterday that I have not post anything on my blog since January. No excuse but life has been indeed very very busy.

First school term ended about a month ago in March and kids are getting used to their school routine. This year my goals are to help Heather master phonics so she can read independently and enjoy reading as much as Hannah, Jon and me. I will also put in time with her Math and Chinese. For Hannah, I have to continue coaching her with academic work and find ways to help her learn better and faster without nagging.

This year, Hannah is enjoying school more except one particular subject which she struggles with. She loves bowling twice a week with her school team. She also participated during sport days and got first in a race (200m run I think). Royal Dance Academy (UK) Ballet exam was also finally over for her during the one week school break in March. She and her ballet teacher had put in their best effort in during the preparation period. Now she has to prepare for her ISTD Tap exam. Struggling to get the rhythm and steps right but the teachers are very patient and are more than helpful and willing to get her ready for the day if all of us work together towards the same consistent result, which is hard for a child of her age. Then again, she did expressed her wish to continue learning. I can only help supervise and encourage her to make that wish into a reality. No pain, no gain, I guess.

Heather continues to improve with her reading. She is doing fantastically with daily lessons with her kindergarten teachers and with me for 30 minutes when she is at home. We practise The Reading Lesson program and a couple of other Phonics materials as well as storybooks. We try to spend a bit of time each week doing additions and subtractions for Math. She started taking piano lessons about two months ago. She had asked me to let her learn music since she was around 3 and 1/2 years old. I thought she was too young then. This year I finally found a nice young teacher who loves little children to teach her. During her play time, she draws, plays with her bears and little animal figurines and swim.

Last week, she performed for parents during a Learn Chinese workshop at her school. All the kids were brave and superb at singing and dancing! I help her teacher to host a storytelling craft session. That was fun for me.

We get together with friends every few weeks and have been cycling a lot as of late. This year, I resolute to exercise more regularly. Hence, had joined the girls and Jon to form a cycling gang with a few other families (friends from kids' school) and had a few fairly big cycling adventures (39 km / 24.23 miles being the longest).The biggest group we had was 10 kids and 7 adults. We had a blast at East Coast Park.

We still cook a lot. We love food as you can see. Click on the images to enlarge and see what's in our home menu.

In my studio, it's busy! I can't think of a better word really. I am working on a few things and a new project which I cannot reveal at the moment. It's exciting learning new things everyday. I need a new Da Vinci drawing easel, a good Nikon DSLR camera, lots of pencils and sketchbooks, blue tape, drawing casts and models, a Macbook Pro ... any sponsor? ;)

So that's our life in a nutshell. Not sure when I get the time to post again. All I can say is I will try my best.

Take care you and stay well! Have fun with your weeks ahead.

(PS: my mum and dad are doing fine. Mum is still on oral chemo medication and taking Chinese medicines as alternate supplements. Dad is happy. My sis is ok. Thanks for your kind regards and concerns.)

Where to buy Guai Wu The Chinese Elf

2010-01-22T09:57:00.007+08:00

Been a long break from my blog. School started 3 weeks ago. My girls and I are getting used to our new routine. I have lesser time to work in the afternoon since both will be home from school between 11-ish to 1-ish. Two days a week Hannah goes bowling hence I have to fetch her from school in the late afternoon. Everyday, I will spend a few hours helping them with school work. Hannah is mostly supervision while Heather does her phonics, reading and Chinese with me. Besides study, I also have to do grocery, cook, book keeping and do house chores (which I do leave out some days when my schedule is full).

Morning is the only good stretch of time for me to draw. I have about 4 hours to glue myself on my chair and keep my pencils moving. Some days I do get distractions.

I have a couple of new projects line up this year. I started doing research for one this week. Gonna be fun working on it. I will update again.

Meanwhile if you want to buy Guai Wu The Chinese Elf online, you can go to SELECTBOOKS or KINOKUNIYA bookstore. Links embedded. Thanks for your support!

Must go now. Take care you and be well.

Get fit this holiday at Alpha Gymnastics

2009-11-18T08:15:00.018+08:00

Last Sunday, the girls went to Alpha Gymnastic Club for lots of good stretching and jumping. Located at Playground @ Big Splash (East Coast Park), Alpha Gym conducts a wide range of gymnastics classes for all ages and abilities. Their classes have been professionally designed to provide strong gymnastics foundation to develop strength, flexibility, balance and co-ordination, thus providing an excellent basis for starting other sports.

Hannah and Heather had lots of fun trying out all sorts of exercises and gym equipment with the guidance from their friendly coaches.

There will be an open house free trial class on 28th and 29th November 2009. To find out more about them and their programs, call 93803033 or email sign_up@alphagym.com.sg for your complimentary slot.

Shuttle* to Big Splash from Parkway Parade (near Old Chang Kee, opposite McDonald's Parkway Centre) available.
* Adult $1 Kids Free

Stay healthy and fit this holiday!

Meeting Neil Gaiman and other awesome literary figures at the Singapore Writers Festival

2009-11-08T02:45:00.020+08:00

I can't believe that another week has gone by without a new post.

Last week at the Singapore Writers Festival, I met several people whom I "met/knew" online. One of them is Sharon Bakar who writes about books (and authors, and publishing events, and reviews, and interviews, among many other interesting stuffs related to the literary world) on her blog, Bibliobibuli - Woman Battles Book Dependency Problem. So book lovers, head off to the bookaholic's blog to share your views about books, and Second Life if you have one.

Another person I enjoyed meeting (a lot) is Wena Poon. Yes, she is the author whose first book, Lions In Winter, was longlisted for the 2008 International Frank O'Connor Short Story Prize, nominated for the Singapore Literature Prize and shortlisted for Popular Reader's Choice Award in Malaysia. The friendly and quick-witted writer was here to speak and launch her new books - The Proper Care of Foxes, published by Ethos Books, and The Biophilia Omnibus, a collection of her first four literary science fiction/fantasy adventure works which she published through BookSurge. She brought in limited copies and I was very happy to get hold of one from BooksActually, the official bookstore for the festival. More of Wena, go to her website www.wenapoon.com.

Jen Hamilton-Emery, director of Salt Publishing (UK) who is responsible for the international edition of Wena's Lions in Winter, was also in town. She was one of the panelists for the publishing industry symposium to talk about poetry, short stories and translation. Jen was very very humble despite having the award winning authors as well as long- and short- listed titles with the publishing firm she run with her partner. Check out their website and buy a book or two to support their Just One Book campaign this Christmas.

At the symposium, I also met Tunku Halim, a Malaysian author based in Tasmania, who, like me, has a deep love for history. He had published several "dark fantasy" stories and a children's encyclopedia on History of Malaysia which was inspired by his late father and took him five years to put together. More information on this well researched book can be found on the author's blog.

It was a pleasure meeting Mr Abdon M. Balse, Jr. (Jun), an award winning novelist and poet from the Philippines. During the symposium, he shared with me the problems of distributing books created by Asean writers and provided insightful information on reading and buying habits in Philippines. It was interesting to learn that books are delivered like pizzas over there! Thank you sir for your time and I too hope that there will be more opportunities to foster better understanding in the area of writing and distribution as well as to establish closer ties between writers, artists, publishers, distributors and booksellers in the two countries.

I attended Felix Cheong's launch for Sudden Youth, a collection of new and selected poems, published by Ethos Books. Felix shared with us his journey as a poet and generously read us almost the whole book. He said this maybe his last poetry book and is working on short stories. I wish you well with whatever you are endeavouring next.

This year, Neil Gaiman, the creator of Sandman, Coraline, Stardust, The Graveyard Book (which won this year's Newbery Award) along with picture books such as Blueberry Girl and The Day I Swapped My Dad with Two Gold Fish, was invited to give a series of talks/dialogs during the Singapore Writers Festival. I managed to get tickets to attend two of the three sessions - Little Lit! at the Arts House and Graphic Novels and Fantasy at the Victoria Theatre. And here's my account.

On Saturday, he talked about writing Coraline, his first novel for children which he started writing in 1991 for her daughters Holly and Maddy. After working on it on-and-off for the next few years, he finally completed the book in 1999 and have it released in 2000. On how kids react to horror story, he felt that children are better at taking scary stuff than adults. He compared Coraline to Hansel and Gretel, which he described as a tale of abandonment and starvation and mass murder. He reckoned that both stories are similar to some extend. So if children aren't afraid of the horrible things in such fairytales, then they will enjoy the chills that run down their spines as they read his story (as proven by Morgan, Gaiman's editor's son). I suppose afraid as they may be, they will also nevertheless be grateful that there is finally an author who refuses to patronise a young audience hungry for an absorbing horror tale.

During the second half of the session, he moved unto more adult stuff. He revealed enthusiastically about his new China inspired project. I am utterly impressed for the fact that he had actually read several Chinese Classics including Dream of the Red Chamber (红楼梦), Outlaws of the Marsh (水许传), Journey to the West (西游记) and Romance of the Three Kingdom (三国演义). He was particularly fascinated by Tang San Zang (唐三藏) and his epic 10000 miles round trip to India to bring back to China the scriptures of Buddhist during the Sui and Tang Dynasty (A.D. 620, 7th century), which basically formed the story of the Journey to The West written by Wu Cheng'en (吴承恩) in the Ming Dynasty, 16th century of China.

Someone asked for his views about book sectioning at bookshops, working on Good Omens with Terry Pratchett whom he referred to as someone with very similar head, and on him releasing the beast in him through writing. He answered each question insightfully. On working with various media, Gaiman hopes to conquer the stage in the future. He didn't talk much about The Graveyard Book but read a good whole chapter from it.

One hour was really short. So on Sunday, I went to listen to the man talked once more, with Hannah. This time, Neil Gaiman, who was cladded again in black, made his appearance in front of 800 fans at the Victoria Theatre. After an introduction, he thanked everyone for "braving the long queue, braving heat and braving whatever mysterious secret messaging system that you know that tickets were available for getting in here". He talked about how "ok" he felt about turning 50 because he has had an amazing life, has written a lot of things he wanted to write, has raised a couple of really cool kids and has the world's coolest girlfriend (Amanda Palmer). He claimed that the only time he was afraid of the plane crashing down was in 1988 when he had to take 100 pages of Dave Mckean's original artworks for Black Orchid from UK to America. He said that he had to work very hard to keep the plane afloat with his mind throughout the entire journey.

The other thing that Gaiman seemed to enjoy talking about during both sessions was Singaporeans' crazy obsession with eating and food. Imagination ran wild with his really humorous theory about an unique viand called "stuffed authors - where you take a nice English author who spends a lot of time in America, about 50, feed him wonderful food until he's completely stuffed, and then slice him up and make him up into little pink packages." He also described Singaporeans as "very enthusiastic, but in a quiet, polite and very organised way" and made a terrible joke about Philippinos, which he quickly apologised.

He also chatted away gleefully, like the way a child talks about his first exotic pet, about his bees, on his mission to save the bee colony, and about how he got into bee-keeping and the second blue ribbon in the county fair that he and his bee-keeping team (Loraine and Birdchick) won for Extracted Honey and for Comb Honey. For him, that was the third best award ever. It beat a dozen of others literary prizes including the new 2010 Les Grands Prix de l’Imaginaire Award for translated short fiction of Des choses fragiles (Fragile Things, collection), he said. The top two are Newbery and Hugo.

Of course again, he told us about his new nonfiction project inspired by the Chinese Legend Journey to the West (西游记) and bits about his day with Mr Liu Xiao Ling Tong (六小龄童) - the Chinese actor who acted as Monkey King (I watched him on TV when I was 9 or 10, can't believe it was so long ago). He also commented that his new books will contain stories about his near impossible meeting with the fourth high-level monk and all the peculiar encounters he had during his various adventures in China including the one about a hawker trying to sell him a human elbow.

I am not surprise with what one can find and experience in a country with a history of over five thousand years. I personally discovered quite a bit online when doing my research for my book Guai Wu The Chinese Elf. As for the subject of Monkey King, in fact, two months ago Lak Khee, an illustrator-friend of mine who is currently based in France, and I had a discussion about this Chinese folktale character whom almost everyone knows.

And in my Little Lit! talk at The Arts House in May, I mentioned, in connection to incorporating Asian elements to children's book, Professor Ma WenHai, another illustrator-friend of mine, who created a series of children's books based on the tales of the monkey god for the American market. In his 4th, which is also the latest, book Monkey King Defeats Red Boy (above), he had put my kids in as characters for his watercolour paintings. His books had been translated to other languages. That goes to show the popularity of this mythical character that most Chinese grew up with. So I look forward to read Gaiman's take on the legend.

Someone in the audience also ask him to talk a bit about his visit to the amazing Studio Ghibli. He said, as he looked back, meeting Mr Hayao Miyazaki, the prominent Japanese filmmaker of many popular animated feature films including Totoro, Spirited Away and, most recently, Ponyo, and spending an afternoon in his studio was one of the best day ever for him. With regards to Totoro's appearance in the background of the illustrated version of Stardust, Neil's answer was that the idea was from the artist but he would have done that too if he had thought of that.

Despite being a rock-star in the literary scene, Neil Gaiman is an amazingly open, unpretentious and down-to-earth person who take time for each one who patiently queue to meet him in person. He is also a very witty and incredibly charismatic storyteller. Hannah shook hand with him (nervously) and had her book signed. As for me, I am thankful to him for an opportunity to revisit my childhood memory through Sun WuKong, the curious and fearless monkey, whose dream to become immortal, brings to life a series of awe-inspiring adventures as the Great Sage Equal to Heaven who continuously creates havoc in the celestial world, had kept me amused and entertained when I was little, and still does even as adult.

If you like to hear from Gaiman himself, go to www.razortv.com. There is a series of interesting interviews from the press conference that happened during his visit.

In one of the recordings, he talked about bribing a watchman to enter a closed down monkey amusement park that ended with seriously disturbing scenes of hell where sinful people were tortured. I can totally relate to the same terrifying experience he described about a young child who walked through the eldritch tunnels. The trip to Haw Par Villa with my parents when I was six or seven at that time had haunted me for years. After walking out of "18 levels of hell", I remember saying to myself that I want to find another religion (or change god) so that I can go to heaven. I later discovered that it is "possible" with the "western" god. Seek and ye shall find!

Ok. With that, I shall end my long post and thank the hardworking team at National Arts Council, The Arts House and the Singapore Books Publishing Association for organising such a wonderful festival.

I wish you (mummies and children) a good school break. My family and I will be taking an adventurous three weeks holiday in New Zealand. Can't wait to breathe the clean crisp air.

PS: Thanks to everyone who came to my book launch during the writers festival despite the rain.

Singapore Writers Festival 2009 - Undercover

2009-10-26T09:52:00.017+08:00

For writers and budding writers and anyone who loves books, Singapore Writers Festival kicked off last Friday at The Arts House and will be running till 1st November. Check out the official website (www.singaporewritersfestival.com) for programme information.

HIGHLIGHTS

26 October 2009, 7:30 pm
Inspector Singh Investigates: A Bali Conspiracy Most Foul by Shamini Flint

Come celebrate the launch of the new Inspector Singh book by author Shamini Flint. You just might discover why Daily Telegraph (United Kingdom) has described Inspector Singh as “a crime series hero like no other”. In this thrilling second book of the series, the Inspector is sent to Bali to help with anti-terrorism efforts, after a bomb blast has been set off on the island.

27 October 2009, 6:30 pm
Literary Pioneer Series: An Evening with Edwin Thumboo

Every society has its pioneers. Without Singapore's literary pioneers laying the foundations, Singapore literature would not be where it is today. Following a tradition started in 2007, SWF takes pride in focusing on SWF 2009 Literary Pioneer, Emeritus Professor Edwin Thumboo. Aside from exploring his works through the years with Jonathan Webster and Thiru Kandiah, there will be heartwarming moments aplenty as friends and family join the man himself in this evening of poetic melodies and anecdotes.

31 October 2009, 12:30 pm
Sudden in Youth: New and Selected Poems 1998 – 2009 by Felix Cheong

Expect inventive wordplay that cuts through the skin of language in Singapore poet Felix Cheong's new book, which brings together his best poems from the past decade as well as his recent writings. Whether assuming the voice of serial killers or strippers, or musing on love or God, he offers an insight as equally provocative as evocative.

31 October 2009, 03:00pm & 04:30pm and 1 November 2009, 02:00pm
Talks by Neil Gaiman

Neil Gaiman, English author of graphic novel Sandman, novel American Gods, and children's books The Graveyard Book and Coraline will be making his way to the festival. For the first session on the 31st, find out if he writes in a different mindset when positioning his stories for children and teens, followed by reading extracts from Who Kills Amanda Palmer, a new photo book from the author based on a macabre collection of Amanda of American music duo The Dresden Dolls, in death poses. On the 1st, he will share some of his experiences and inspirations behind his many graphic novels and writings in the fantasy genre.

Also check out Wena Poon's new books The Biophilia Omnibus and The Proper Care Of Foxes.

It is a pity that I have missed a couple of talks and book launch due to family events - Heather's school performance last Saturday and classes on Sunday - so I am looking forward to this coming weekend.

And don't forget Adeline Foo, Lee Kowling and I will be launching our new books Georgette's Mooncakes and Guai Wu The Chinese Elf this Saturday, 31 October, 6.30pm, at The Arts House. RSVP here on Faceboook. See you there!

Guai Wu The Chinese Elf was reviewed by Michelle Martins on her Talking Books segment on 938Live. Check out this video below with the radio recording.

A wedding, two launch and a third to come

2009-10-08T18:45:00.028+08:00

Last weekend was a busy one for me and my family. There was launch events for my picture book Guai Wu The Chinese Elf and Kowling's book Georgette's Mooncakes at Borders Books, as well as a wedding of a dear friend of mine (Cindy) on a beautiful Sunday morning at Beaufort Sentosa.

Cindy's wedding is the most heartwarming nuptial I have ever attended. Attendees are her family and some of her closest friends, mostly of them know her for over ten years. Everyone agrees to the hilt that Cindy is a loyal friend who is always thoughtful, kind and empathetic. I met Cindy when I was working as a copywriter at an advertising agency, let me see ... in 1995 (I think ... getting old). But I do remember her joining the creative group as an intern. In fact a very cheerful, sweet and cute young mar-com student she was. I am really touched that Cindy has never forgotten me even after she left the agency and went off to Wales in the UK to further her education. She did things that keep the friendship going. She sent me and my girls postcards for every occasion (mostly handmade), visited me on Chinese New Year with tins of cookies and tangerine and replied every email no matter where she was. I have so much to learn from her about nurturing relationships. I am grateful to know an extraordinary steadfast friend who never takes any relationship for granted. Thank you Cindy. I am so happy for you. I wish you the very very best in the world in your new life in Wales with Roger, whom I trust to be a man of honor and big heart.

(Click on the images to enlarge)

After the wedding, I dashed off to the bookstore to launch my new book Guai Wu The Chinese Elf. Our book launch at Borders Books went well on both days. Many thanks to all of you who came to support us. Thanks Jamie and her staff at the Parkway bookstores for their logistic assistance. I think I did better than the first time when I did my presentation at Little Lit. At least not as nervous. I also enjoyed coming up with my own craft activities for the children.

I want to especially thank my girls Hannah and Heather, my husband Jon (who came to the bookstore despite being under the weather), Mariko and Wen for stepping forward to give me a hand with the events. Mari helped me to cut some of the templates for my shoe making session and brought for me my paintings while I went to the wedding before the event that morning while Wen helped me out with photography.

I held my tears when my mum and dad came to the bookstore until the end of the event. I am very touched by their support all along despite of their poor health. Thank you mum and dad for everything.

Double book launch
In celebration with the release of Georgette's Mooncakes and Guai Wu The Chinese Elf, Ethos Books will be hosting a double book launch during the Singapore Writers Festival, on the 31st October 2009, 6.30pm to 7.30pm at The Arts House. For more info, please go to my Facebook Pages or visit the official website of Singapore Writers Festival.

I look forward to catching up with you again. In the meantime, wish me luck with a few new sets of paintings for OIC.

Chinese Embroidery Patterns for Illustration Friday

2009-10-02T21:12:00.006+08:00

It has been a very very long time since I participated in Illustration Friday, where I first discovered the possible opportunity to illustrate for children's book. This week's topic is PATTERN and I happen to have some illustrations that fit in nicely.

These illustrations are from my new picture book Guai Wu The Chinese Elf, a story set during the Qing Dynasty. The book tells a story about a boy in China who looked different from other children and a seamstress who took him into her house and gave him shelter and food. In those days, the Han Chinese wore elaborately embroidered silk costumes and handmade shoes with beautiful patterns inspired by nature, folk culture and folk tales.

More article on the book can be found here, here and here.

…
Book information
Author: Adeline Foo
Illustrator: Christine Lim
Publisher: Ethos Books
Format: Soft Cover Trade
ISBN: 9789810828981
Medium: watercolour

This post is linked to this.

Update: The topic was changed when I submitted my entry.

Hot off the press!

2009-09-27T02:50:00.013+08:00

Labour of love
25 September 2009, Friday - I have been waiting for the moment to write this post for nearly 365 days. My parents had taught me well the virtue of patience.

This morning before I dashed off to meet my bookseller, Wai Han my publisher at Ethos Books, was so sweet to send over some copies of my newly printed books Guai Wu The Chinese Elf. For the first time, I feel relieved. I flipped through the book but didn’t scrutinise my paintings and the printing like I normally will do. Today, I told myself it’s time to walk tall. My work is done, or at least I am down with only the marketing aspect for my book. That’s right, illustrating and getting published is only part of the book business.

Almost an entire year of hard work is in this picture book. Is it worth it? YES, and I will do it again and again and again. I have learned so much from my author-partner Adeline Foo, my incredibly patient publishing team (Wai Han, Hoe Fang, Adeleena, Alvin and Merlin), Thomas and Hao You at PICA Scans, Steven and Ah Man at Utopia Press and everyone else whom had shared with me their wisdom in creating picture books. Thank you all for all your efforts.

Special thanks to Professor Ma Wenhai at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign who had shared with me his personal pictures of China. His constant notes of encouragement are like cushions. My gratitude to Ken Spillman for all his inspirational and uplifting words.

Also, thanks in advance to the team at MarketAsia for distributing my books, all the staff of Borders Books for their support for the upcoming event on next Sunday, 4 October, 2pm at Borders Parkway, other book sellers, as well as each and everyone who will come and support me.

Last but not least, thanks to a few very important people in my life - Hannah and Heather (for everything that no adults can give and teach me), Jon (for providing for us), mum and dad (who has never once force me to become a doctor or a lawyer) and my sister Dawn (for looking after my mum and never once ask me to go get a properly paid job), my trustworthy neighbours Mariko, KiSeung and little Yuri (for your friendship, support, kind acts and for saving me time after time), my generous friends including Selena and Boo Kian (who never fail to bring out a smile on my kids’ face), Miko (who regularly buy me coffee to keep me awake on Sunday), May (who sends me love regularly from Toronto) and ALL my little friends (who loves peeping over my shoulder when I draw and paint) - each one of you is an inspiration behind my work.)

So, with further ado, I would like to invite you and your child to celebrate with me and Adeline for the launch of Gu Wu The Chinese Elf on the following dates:

4th October 2009. Sunday. 2pm.
BORDERS BOOKS (Parkway Parade)
There will be storytelling, guided shoe making session*, exhibition of original artwork and book signing.
* parent/guardian's assistance is required.

You can find more info through my Facebook Page.

31st October 2009. Saturday. 6.30pm
EARSHOT at THE ARTS HOUSE
A Singapore Writers Festival event – Joint book launch with Lee Kowling, illustrator for Adeline’s Peranakan series, for Georgette’s Mooncakes and The Beaded Slippers, also authored by Adeline Foo. I will fill you in with details in the coming weeks.

Kowling will also be launching her new book Georgette's Mooncake and The Beaded Slippers at Borders Books (Wheelock) on 3rd October 2009, Saturday at 2pm to 3pm.

Please see the image for details.

We look forwards to seeing all of you. :)

If you are a bookseller, a school teacher, a parent looking for have us over to do a talk, workshop, storytelling, please drop me an email.
…
Almost there!
22 September 2009. Tuesday - I am glad that my book is finally printed. Last Friday, I went all the way to Tuas with my publisher to do the press check. Ah Man, the press operator at Utopia Press, patiently took me through the process and taught me how colours can be adjusted to make the final appearance more pleasing to the eyes. Binding should done on today. The books should be delivered to the publisher by Wednesday ... I can’t wait to see my labour of love in print. Stay tuned for updates regarding book signing and activities!

…
Book information
Format: Soft Cover Trade
ISBN: 9789810828981
…
Happy Birthday to my sweetheart!

17 September 2009. Thursday - Here's my special and long due "report" for Brenda, my extended family in UK!

Hannah turned 8 on Monday, 14th Sept. This year we didn't throw a party. Instead she decided that she wanted to invite a few good friends on various days during the one week long holiday, a weeks ago, to go out with her for some fun together. My daughter has really grown up.

On Tuesday 8th, Selena brought us to Fidget indoor playground and the kids played for hours. We headed to Horse City for lunch at Picotin - great restaurant ambience and food was awesome. Kids had soup and pizza. I had Tuna with Nicoise Salad. The children had fun seeing little animals and horses that were kept at the stable and getting little treats all day. We went to Selena's place after lunch. Hannah really enjoyed playing with their dog, Tye.

On Thursday 10th, we had a picnic at the Botanic Gardens. We had J.CO donuts, lemonade and ice cream. Kids had a great time feeding the black swans, exploring the Eco Garden and Jacob Ballas Garden on their own and getting all wet at the water area.

On Friday 11th, Jon took the girls to Vivo City and Sentosa. They went for a fairly posh lunch at Akashi. Hannah had Ikura sushi that cost $12 for two pieces. I joined them later that evening at Sentosa for dinner. The evening ended with fun on the luge.

Then on Saturday 12th, Mari and KiSeung were very sweet to let us join them and their daughter Yuri for a dinner at Jumbo Seafood at East Coast Park. We are grateful to be so blessed with friends like them in our lives. Thanks to my children, especially Hannah, I have found new friends and established new bonding that has helped me grow as a mother.

(Click image to enlarge)

…
School reopened last Monday after a short week's break. Hannah was reminded by her teacher that she has to sit for her final term exam soon. Time to schedule some hours to do some revision with her (something which I have not really allotted much time in this year). Hope it's not too late. In the meantime, we managed to squeeze in some time on Saturday evening to go bowling and enjoy a sumptuous Korean feast, joined by kids' best friend Yuri, as part of Hannah’s extended birthday treat since Jon was out of town on Hannah's birthday. I discovered that I can draw but can't bowl (and now it’s not a secret)! Nevertheless, it was fun. Hannah was actually quite good at it. We look forward to the next session.

…
My mum is doing ok with the oral chemotherapy. She came over to watch over Heather a few times when I take my dad to the hospital for his checkup. My sister is working very hard to support the medical expenses. I hope the sales from my book will ease off some load from her. Thank you all for your kind regards and prayers for them.

…
I think I am done with this post. 3.20am. What's the thing mothers always say: it's past bedtime. Good night!

Reading For Pleasure - Nurturing Lifelong Learners

2009-08-14T00:02:00.025+08:00

Dear friends and readers, how have you been? I hope you have been kind to yourself. I am happy to announce that my book Guai Wu is now in the reproduction stage. There are still lots of things to do - colour corrections for the scans, touching up, colour proofing, cover design, text layout, final press check, etc, before the book goes to the bookstores.

In the meantime, I just want to share with you on the topic of reading for pleasure.

The Strait Times published an interview with Dr Ken Spillman, an Australian author of over 20 books including Blue and Love is a UFO, both acclaimed novels for teenagers, about "Getting the young to read for pleasure".

(Please click on the image to read the article.)

An evangelist of reading for pleasure, Dr Spillman visited Singapore on 24th August to gave a talk on literacy in the interactive world at a conference that is part of the 5th Read! Singapore campaign.

As a parent, I would like to thank Dr Spillman for reminding us the benefits of reading for pleasure. He recently published his new juvenile fiction entitled Jake’s Gigantic List*, which is especially dedicated to Children’s Book Council of Australia for being “so tireless in promoting the wonder of books”.

Jake’s Gigantic List
Jake’s Gigantic List is about discovering the magic of a great story. The protagonist is a little boy who wants it all. Like most kids, he loves birthdays and presents. He has pretty much everything a kid wants, though not enough. So for his coming birthday, his father tells him to make a wishlist which includes everything he has imagined to have - real spaceships, pet crocodile, friendly pirate, remote control football, a good mood tablet for teachers, etc. The list grew longer and longer, and more and more inventive. Luckily for Jake, Auntie Lyn knows just where to find them all. Filled with cute pencil sketch illustrations by Chris Nixon, Jake’s Gigantic List makes a fun book to read at anytime.

I personally had enjoyed reading Jake’s Gigantic List to Hannah, Heather and Yuri (my Japanese neighbour’s child) at bedtime. They all love the story to bits, especially the idea of creating their own adventure packed birthday list. Chris Nixon’s cartoonish, black and white drawings added extra playfulness to the lighthearted story.

You can find out more about Dr Ken Spillman on his website: www.kenspillman.com
Jake’s Gigantic List is published by Fremantle Press. ISBN 978 1921 361 71 5. You can purchase online http://www.fremantlepress.com.au/books/1111

Why reading for pleasure is so important to a child?
The world was once a place where books were not only for knowledge, book were also for entertainment, therefore for pleasure. Reading for fun was a favourite pastime of most children, teens and adults before the 50s. Then TV struck. Back then it was thought that TV would replace movies. Little did they know that movies would survive and reading for pleasure would fall by the wayside.

As TV watching increased, reading for fun decreased in direct proportion. With the birth of computers, popularisation of Internet and portable games gadgets in the 90s, as well as education system reform that stresses on academic achievement, people started to turn away from books to other form of activities for pleasure.

In UK, The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (Pirls) showed that the amount of reading overall outside school continued to plummet since the last study, six years ago. Only 33% of children in England and Scotland read for pleasure, compared with the international average of 40%.

The children's secretary, Ed Balls, said: "This study shows that our highest achieving children are reading less, with children's busy days leaving less time for books at home. As parents we have to get the balance right and as a society we have to send the right messages about the value of reading to our children."

Liberal Democrat shadow children's secretary David Laws said "Despite the success of books like Harry Potter, there is still a worryingly large group of our young people who have absolutely no interest in reading. We have to ensure that youngsters can not only read and write but that schools and parents breathe enjoyment back into what otherwise can be a rigid programme of learning."

In another interview, an award-winning children's author has suggested the current schooling system is putting kids off reading for pleasure.

While some independent schools may be exceptions to the rule, Frank Cottrell Boyce, told the Telegraph that continuous assessment and a focus on literacy may have improved the skills of some, but has taken the joy out of reading for many.

The author was awarded the Carnegie Medal for children's writing after the success of his book Millions, but told the newspaper he feels the focus on how children read is damaging.

"It is like comparing health to sport," he said. "One is something functional - the other is something you do because you enjoy it." Mr Cottrell Boyce told the newspaper children who read for pleasure should naturally do better at school.

New Children’s Laureate encourages reading picture books for pleasure
Anthony Browne, the new Children’s Laureate, has recently called for greater emphasis on reading for pleasure. Accepting the Laureateship in June he said, “I hope to encourage more children to discover and love reading, but I want to focus particularly on the appreciation of picture books, and the reading of both pictures and words. Picture books are for everybody at any age, not books to be left behind as we grow older. The best ones leave a tantalising gap between the pictures and the words, a gap that is filled by the reader's imagination, adding so much to the excitement of reading a book.”

And, “if children are not encouraged to read for pure pleasure, if they are dragged away from reading books they enjoy – including picture books – and pushed into reading educationally worthy books, then we are in danger of creating a generation of non-readers.”

He also encouraged educators and teachers to revisit picture books. “Picture books are special – they’re not like anything else. Sometimes I hear parents encouraging their children to read what they call proper books (books without pictures), at an earlier and earlier age. This makes me sad, as picture books are perfect for sharing, and not just with the youngest children. As a father, I understand the importance of the bond that develops through reading picture books with your child.”

‘We have in Britain some of the best picture book makers in the world, and I want to see their books appreciated for what they are – works of art.”

Schools have been ordered to overhaul their English teaching after a three-year study by the education watchdog, Ofsted, found that 30% of lessons are not good enough and little attempt is made to encourage teenagers to read for pleasure.

The report was based on inspectors’ visits to English lessons in 242 schools from 2005 to 2008. Although recent developments were praised, test results on the whole have hardly improved since 2004.

Singapore children asking for more time to read for pleasure
In Singapore, children in primary schools are engaged daily for at least 30 minutes of silent reading, which is usually carried out in the assembly hall; although the activity is recently held in classrooms instead due to H1N1. Students are allowed to read anything other than text books, comics and other academic materials such as composition handbooks. As to whether a child is truly reading a book, or simply glancing at the words in it, is probably still a question only he or she can tell you.

A study made by an associate professor at Nanyang Technology University on the reading habits of Singapore children revealed that 62% of the students said that they read to get better grades in their tests and examinations or taking reading as a way to improve language skills as their motivations for reading. Slightly over 20% of the students said that most of the time they read because their parents or teachers asked them to do so.

Clearly, only a limited number of the students were reading for relaxation. This could only possibly be due to stressful Singapore education system which places high emphasis on meritocracy and good grades. Students, including those in the lower primary level (6 and 7 years of age), often face pressure from their parents and teachers to improve their academic performance. Many expressed the wish to have more time for fun reading.

It is, therefore, desirable that Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE), schools as well as parents should consider reducing workload of primary school children so that they may find sufficient time and energy for fun reading.

The other dimension of this issue is that often children of Generation Z have a fixed amount of time and energy for leisure activities and, in addition to fun reading, many activities are competing for their time and attention. With more and more children being technologically savvy, books may perceived as less appealing and exciting in comparison to, say, a cutting-edge handheld game gadget, a fashionable mobile phone or the latest computer activities. Afterall, it does take a bit more brain cells and patience to digest a good story than watching a DVD or playing games on the Internet.

However, we already know that at the end, their imagination and intellectual curiosity is more likely expand hundred times more with books. Through the power and music and magic of stories and poems that children can also develop the empathy and awareness that they will need to tackle the complexities of their own emotions, of the human condition in which they find in themselves.

What can you do to encourage reading for pleasure?
Teachers and parents can play an important role in educating children how to keep a balance in their leisure activities, including reading for pleasure.

Children model after their parents’ lifestyle. I think that how do you instill in a child not to pick their food is similar to how you instill the joy of reading in a child. With eating, you, as a parent, must not be choosy or overly bias (with exception to junk food) and encourage your child to try out a good variety of healthy food. With reading, you must first make sure your child sees you reading for pleasure other than at read-aloud time that you and your child can do together before sleeping. Sharing with your child your enthusiasm for whatever you are reading is also a good way to cultivate his or her interest in reading.

My story:
I think I am personally a fairly late convert. My parents speak only Mandarin, Hokkien and Teochew. They were born during post occupation. They came from poor family and had only a few years of education. My mum learnt Teochew (a chinese dialect) through Chinese opera performing, which was her career for many years from the age of 12 until she married my dad. She learnt to read Chinese characters in the opera script. Mandarin was picked up probably in the 80s when television became popular in homes. My dad had to work since very very young, probably about 6 years old. He helped in the farm, grew vegetable and crops, raised pigs, chicken and ducks. My grandmother, who came to Singapore from China in a junk with her mother and sister, was a single mum to nine children, including those of my grandaunt’s own and adopted. All of them lived together under one scrap-metal roof where the toilet was a few yards outside the house. My grandaunt worked as a samsui woman (labour worker at construction sites) while my grandmother ran the household and a farm at home. My father had to give up school before he became a young adult to work as a carpenter, a chicken rice seller and a hawker to live. He had never given up learning languages and acquired sufficient reading skill to comprehend the newspaper and written materials that he finds interesting to read.

During my primary school days, if I am honest, I read to get through book reviews and exams. I didn’t do well in English because there was no help from home and school. And because English was my weakest subject, I find myself struggling with chapter books, which were the only kind of books we were allowed to read and review. I can’t recall much of what I read other than some of Enid Blyton’s and Hans Christian Anderson’s books, and Z for Zachariah by Robert C. O’Brien, a story about life after a nuclear disaster. No one introduced me to AA Milne, Beatrix Potter, Dr Suess or Roald Dahl, whom I believe I would have love to read if I had known them.

Time flew and I was in secondary school. I don’t know how or why I became very interested in literature and turned out to be good at it. Shakespeare was my favourite. I even bought the whole collection of his works later on in life. I guess it was probably then I began to like books a little more. I also signed on as a student librarian at my school for a year or two. As I grew older, books became my life companion. I even worked in a bookshop for a while. After meeting my husband, who is an avid reader, I was introduced to some more world’s best authors including J R.R Tolkien, CS Lewis, Issac Asimov, and many more.

I feel very fortunate to be in the children’s book industry. Not only that I get to read for knowledge and pleasure, sharing stories with children, I even get to meet and work with authors and be the first few to read their stories that can add sparkles to a child’s life (and mine too). Every night, I also get to read aloud to my daughters all the best books ever written. What a blessing … all from my love for reading.

So, it’s really never too late to become a bookworm or raise one.

And it’s definitely not too late to experience every little heartfelt magical moments that you can discover between the lines in books.

Dr Seuss in I can Read with my Eyes Shut said: “The more you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” While Roald Dahl in Charlie and Chocolate Factory beseeched: “So please, oh PLEASE, we beg, we pray, go throw your TV set away, And in its place you can install, a lovely bookshelf on the wall!”

To end, I would like to quote from author Emma Walton Hamilton, author of Raising Bookworms: Getting kids Reading for Pleasure and Empowerment:

“Let’s help our kids to access the innate joy and empowerment in exploring the ideas and insights of great writers, thinkers, artists, and philosophers. Let’s imagine a world in which they actually participate, with active voices, informed opinions, and the real hope of being heard. Let’s get started right now.”

I am off to read John Danalis' new novel Riding The Black Cockatoo before I hit the sack. He said to me: "There is healing smokes within the pages. Breathe and enjoy!"

Sources and links:
Telegraph UK
Guardian UK
Independent UK
Timesonline UK
Children's Laureate UK
Children's Book Council of Australia
Wall Street Journal Online

================================================
28 October 2011 - Myra Garces-Bacsal did an extensive series of interviews with Ken Spillman on his works at Gathering Book: Intro, Part 1, Part 2, Part3 and Part 4.

A bundle of joy

2009-07-24T16:13:00.006+08:00

24 July 2009
As you can see, I am not writing and posting as quickly as I want to. Some notes are over 3 weeks old! I just write and save, edit, then write some more, save some more, and edit some more.

Now I can only jot down snippets of events and happenings that I can remember as my fingers type away.

I had a really fantastic day yesterday. Met up with a friend from Australia yesterday. It was really good hanging out over lunch and talk about books and book creation - something we both are exceedingly passionate about. There is something magical about blank paper or canvas. Anything can happen. Then we went to meet some corporate people to talk business (thanks to Andy Yang, a superbly talented artist I met through Organisation of Illustrators Council). That was serious but fun at the same time.

After that meeting, we talk some more all the way to meet another friend, Mukul Deva, Military Action Thriller writer of Lashkar series (which gotten Bollywood's interest) and Salim Must Die, published by Harper Collins India. Mukul is also a corporate coach and the author of several corporate titles. You can find out more about this prolific writer on his website: www.mukuldeva.com or on Business Times as well as other major publications if you google him.

This morning, my publisher, Ethos Books passed me the scans for the watercolour paintings. I will be spending the next few days cleaning up digital illustrations to get them ready for layout. Prepress stage - the final leg before the book gets printed and send to the bookshops. What a great feeling!

Must go now. Getting long again. Have a great weekend folks. Drop me a comment, an email if you like. Ta ta for now!

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21 July 2009 Tuesday
I can almost call it a wrap for my book. I handed over all illustrations for my book to my very very patient publisher today. I should get the high resolution scans in three to four days time and do some cleaning up on them before the text are laid in.

While waiting, I have to catch up with a few things. That includes spring cleaning the whole house and continue my classical art training. It has been a long time since I give the house a thorough scrub and get rid all the cobwebs (not much), toys and papers (tons and tons). It will take me a few days going through every single corner and shelf. I drew almost everyday the last few weeks. Mostly for my book but nothing particular for study. Now that I am done with my book (illustrations wise at least), I can get back to my drawing board.

A friend living in Australia has commissioned me to do a portrait of her children. I am really looking forward to draw portraits again. I had so much fun sketching Hannah and Heather.

My author, Adeline Foo, will be arranging a few book launches. Beside reading and book signing, I have to think about activities for kids. Think ... think ... think ...

I am happy that things are finally moving along. Time to get on with the chores. Lunch first.

Forgot to mention website. I need one real soon.

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10 June 2009 Friday
Finally over with the tap and modern dance exam. Hannah said she was a little bit nervous but the examiner was very friendly and it went well. The girls were given extra time to practise. I rather enjoyed watching the girls and boys tapping away with the jazzy beats.

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7 June 2009 Tuesday already.
Hannah has been practising intensively everyday for her tap and modern dance exam for the past few weeks. Took her some effort to get the steps and hand-and-feet coordination in sync with the music.

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3 July 2009 Friday
Gosh ... it's Friday again! Can somebody slow down time?

I meant to post earlier but, as usual, I got caught up with a couple other things that work-at-home mums got to do. Namely, cooking, doing the laundry, getting kids ready for school, cleaning up the house, replying emails, updating my Facebook, finishing up my last piece of illustration for my children's picture book, researching on book marketing ... ... Twitter? Nah, no time for twitter.

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29 June 2009 Monday
It's amazing how quickly (and easily) kids adjust to changes. School reopens today which means life is now restored.

Heather, who had been sleeping till 9am during the school holiday, managed to get out of bed at 7am without complains this morning. Like before, I carried her to the toilet for a wee, get her teeth brushed and face washed. She got changed into her uniform that seems shorter again. School bus arrived 20 minutes later and off she went.

Hannah, who is lucky to sleep till 9am as she attends the afternoon session, was pleased to be back at school. Her bag were packed last week (though she changed to another bag this morning). She watched the clock and got herself dressed.

The house is really quiet when the girls are at school at different time. Instead of bickering, they actually had a nice conversation with each other at dinner and before they went to bed. I too feel more relax without having to be the mediator of their "mummy, she did this to me". I hope this pleasantness last!

Good book, good food, good company

2009-06-07T21:36:00.006+08:00

The first week of the school holiday has gone so very quickly. Jon and I managed to get out of the house to do something fun with the girls. This week is all about books, food and company of friends.

Last weekend, Adeline, Kowling and I hosted two little workshops at the National Museum of Singapore. Hannah and Heather had a great time playing with Kowling's daughter Ashley on Saturday. After the workshop, we lunched at a cafe restaurant at Dhoby Exchange. I think it's called Just Acia. We enjoyed our afternoon there as there is a little play corner for kids while the adults get free flow of coffee tea and ice cream. But having said that, we all had only one each. After a nice meal, we dropped by the World Book Fair to meet our distributor.

(L to R: Adeline, Me, Stephanie and Kowling at MarketAsia booth)

On Sunday, Selena and Boo brought Gareth and Gawain to the museum. While I was doing the workshop, the girls went exploring the museum and had lots of fun with their friends. After that we spend a splendid afternoon with Selena and her family.

On Monday, I attended a thank you dinner organised by the very nice people from the museum with my usual coterie. Hannah had a good time hanging out with Ashley and Ben. It was a pleasure meeting others who participated in the Children's Season 2009.

Thursday was interesting. We were invited to the opening of Namiko Chan's solo art show "Divergence" by her husband Aaron Lee, a newly found friend I met at Little Lit. Namiko's exhibit will run from 5th to 27th June at the Fost Gallery (near Mohd Sultan Road). That evening, we took the opportunity to experience a taste of French. We dined at Brasserie Wolf by the river bank at The Pier. The girls enjoyed tucking into their gourmet ham and seafood pasta while Jon and I savoured our Roasted Rabbit. After an incredible feast, we strolled down the river to Clarke Quay. We stopped by the Crazy Elephant before we called it a night.

The next day, we slept in till 10. Jon took a day off work to bring the girls to the Science Centre while I joined the Little Lit gang at a Filipino art exhibit at the Royal Plaza and a pretty good local fare at The Canteen at Shaw Scott. Thanks to Eugene of Monster Under The Bed (MUTB)!

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Adeline, Kowling and I would like to thank everyone who came and join us at the National Museum last weekend. We had fun and look forward to seeing everyone again.

An afternoon of enriching the creative minds at Little Lit

2009-05-28T20:36:00.003+08:00

The inaugural “Little Lit: Enriching Minds & Igniting A Writer’s Spark”, a Pre-Festival Event of the Singapore Writers Festival held at The Arts House on 24th May 2009, was a huge success.

Many heartfelt thanks to our sponsors and organisers - National Arts Council, The Art House, Monsters Under The Bed and Singapore Press Holdings, our publishers Ethos Books and Epigram, our distributor Marketasia everyone who helped out as well as ALL who attended the event.

The panel of speakers including poet Aaron Lee, authors Adeline Foo and Felix Cheong, together with illustrators Joshua Chiang, Lee Kowling, Stephanie Wong and myself were greeted by 200 odd attendees including children, parents, teachers, writers, aspiring writers and illustrators, plus many others who are keen to learn more about writing and illustrating for children.

All of us had lots of fun sharing with everyone our knowledge, journey and passion for children’s literature.

Adeline Foo, author of 13 children’s books, talked about the various career choices for a writer, and other aspects of writing such as book marketing, as well as sharing her process of writing The Diary of Amos Lee, a new book she collaborated with illustrator/book designer Stephanie Wong, who talked about the process in designing the character for Amos Lee and how to create illustrations and book cover for a novel that works.

Aaron Lee, a prize winning poet, an excellent speaker who was also the brilliant moderator for the event, talked about his love for poetry. He shared with us many inspiring poems that touch the hearts of children and adults.

Felix Cheong, an award winning poet and novelist, shared his wisdom on writing fiction for the tweens (children between 9 to 14 years old)and tips on penning the first word. A former TV producer and studio director,with the help of three youngsters, he demonstrated the use of sound to dramatise storytelling.

For me, it was a great privilege to speak at “Little Lit”. This is the first time artists are featured as part of the Singapore Writers Festival, which is Singapore’s most prestigious and only national literary festival.

My talk about Asian Influence in Children's Books covered a brief presentation of my work and illustration style for children’s books,a showcase of children's book illustrators in Asia, an introduction to Asian heritage, a peek into my childhood as a child to a Chinese opera performer and how I incorporate Asian elements, in terms of Chinese values and arts, in my new book “Guai Wu The Monster Child”, a story set in China during the Qing Dynasty, which should be in major bookstores by July.

Joshua Chiang, an all rounded animator and illustrator, shared his experience, tips and tricks on how he goes about creating his characters for cartoons and his first children’s book. His philosophy “Remain a child at heart always” conveys the message from every children’s book writer and illustrator.

Lee Kowling, a veteran in the book illustration scene, took us through her journey as an illustrator from the 90s till now. She explained how she developed a wide variety of illustration styles to meet the needs of the stories she worked on. It was a visual feast for the audience.

We look forward to bringing back the event again.

Little Lit, grooming Singapore's next generation of writers
From 8 to 16, they came and absorbed everything about writing and publishing

Mr Phan Ming Yen (Director of The Arts House) gave an opening speech.

Speakers Felix Cheong, Adeline Foo, Stephanie Wong

Illustrators panel - Joshua Chiang, Christine Lim, Lee Kowling

Poet, emcee and moderator Aaron Lee

The crowd of 200 plus parents and children (Many others had to be turned away, our sincere apologies)

Educational Holiday Fun for Kids and Families at the International Museum Day

2009-05-15T09:45:00.008+08:00

School holiday will be here again soon. Got any plans for your kids?

How about some educational and fun activities that promise to entertain, engage and intrigue your children during the 10-days celebration of the International Museum Day 2009!

This years focus for IMD'09 is on children and young families. The theme which runs from 23rd May to 31st May 2009 is "Holiday Fun at Home‟.

Said Ms Cheryl Koh, Deputy Director of Corporate Communications and Industry Promotion at the National Heritage Board: “We know that given the economic climate, families may be cutting back on travelling this year. But they can still have fun right here with many of our free activities across more than 14 museums.”

IMD'09 will feature a Family Carnival at National Museum. A slew of activities awaits including puppet and storytelling performances, craft workshops, and even an interactive playground for young children.

You and your family can look forward to a Chinese culture medley at the Asian Civilisations Museum, a healthy ice-cream making at Healthzone, adventure trails at Baba House and the National Archives of Singapore, and the “I Can Guide” programme at the Peranakan Museum, which trains children to be museum guides for their own peers.

“We have found that “I Can Guide” is a great way for children to develop confidence in their social and language skills, and at the same time cultivate a personal interest in their heritage. Many of our activities have a soft educational component and history lessons for one, will never be the same again!,” said Ms Koh.

This is the fourth year that the National Heritage Board (NHB) is organising the International Museum Day in Singapore. During the period of IMD'09, all of NHB's museums will have Open House days, the public can enjoy free admission to international blockbuster exhibitions such as Christian Lacroix the costumer at the National Museum of Singapore and The Kangxi Emperor: Treasures from the Forbidden City at the Asian Civilisations Museum. To wrap up their journey at the museums, visitors will be spoilt for choice with the many F&B outlets to dine at.

Besides all NHB museums, the Marina Barrage, NEWater Visitors Centre, Malay Heritage Centre, and red dot Museum, will allow the public to enter free of charge on 31 May. Senior citizens can also enjoy free entry to all NHB's museums and the Malay Heritage Centre on 25 May.

More detail listings
Please refer to Annex A for a detailed list of participating museums in the Open House Day and other promotions and Annex B for detailed listing of events and workshops that you may find useful.

About The International Museum Day
The International Museum Day (IMD) has been celebrated by thousands of museum all over the world since 1977.

Since 2006, National Heritage Board (NHB) has celebrated IMD in Singapore through events and activities at NHB's museums during the last two weeks of May and will continue to be focused on public outreach with a primary focus on families and children this year to foster a museum going culture from young. The theme of IMD‟09 is Holiday Fun at Home!

More information about IMD 2009 can be found at http://www.museums.com.sg/imd09/.

ANNEX A OPEN HOUSE DAYS
31 May
National Museum of Singapore
Mint Museum of Toys
Malay Heritage Centre
24 May
Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research
30-31 May
Asian Civilisations Museum
31 May
Singapore Philatelic Museum
Singapore Art Museum
8Q sam - contemporary art wing of SAM
Marina Barrage
May Malay Heritage Centre
NEWater Visitors Centre
May red dot museum

(Please click on the image to see enlarged image)

Have fun! : )

PS: I will be doing a workshop with author Adeline and two other illustrators Kowling and Joshua as part of National Museum's special event Children's Season. Our event title is Behind the Scene of Picture Books - From ideas to words and art. Date: 30 & 31 May 2009. Time: 10am to 1130am. See you there!

I will be hosting the 31st workshop with Adeline. Please book in advance with SISTIC, the official ticketing office.
Information on their website: www.sistic.com

We are on the Sunday Times!

2009-03-15T15:14:00.002+08:00

Author Adeline Foo and illustrators Lee Kowling, Christopher Martin, Joshua Chiang and myself were interviewed by Singapore press on Wednesday. The interview was featured on Sunday Times today.

To read, click on the image.

Meet the monsters!

2009-03-15T01:23:00.005+08:00

I have been keeping silence for a few months now. I am so thrilled that I can finally let the cat out of the bag!

Last year late October, Adeline Foo, winner of the inaugural First Time Writers and Illustrators Initiative award, author of Ben's Rainforest series and Peranakan Heritage series, invited me to illustrate one of her newest children's titles. It didn't take me long to say yes after reading the initial manuscript.

Since then, I have been working tirelessly. My book which should be available in major bookstores sometime in May. Currently, production is in full swing. After nearly two months of pretty intensive research, hundreds of sketches and thumbnails, I finally started doing the final paintings a month ago. I must admit I underestimated the amount of time I need to work on the book. I also did not expect myself to be so meticulous over the details on the painting. Anyway, thankfully both Adeline and my publisher (Ethos Books) have been really patient. That really allow me to produce my best illustrations for the book.

Today, the first three books of Adeline's latest series (titled Monsters in the Mind) were launched at the Mint Toy Museum. Me, Hannah and Heather, together with Mariko and her daughter Yuri (our Japanese neighbour) rushed to the book event after Hannah's ballet class. We were fashionably late for a good reason. Wai Han called me when I was half way on the road. Apparently everyone was waiting for me to start the event. My jaw dropped! I was certain that I did inform them that I will get there 45 mins later. Before I could settle down, I was given a very warm welcome and a microphone. I don't remember exactly what I said other than thanking everyone for their support and patience. Truthfully, I am so lucky to be in the team of such wonderful people.

After the launch, the girls and I joined Adeline, Kowling and their family for dinner. We also pop by to see Christopher Martin, illustrator for "The Thing Under My Bed". He is also an artist and the creative director of Splatter. Together with his wife Angela Mather, they are selling their original art pieces Creative Australia 2009 event being held at Raffles City, Level 3 Atrium, from 13 to 22 March 2009.

Do drop by if you have time during the school holiday.

Also don't forget to bring for kids to meet the "monster gang" at Kinokuniya Takashimaya on the 21 March 2009, 3.30 to 4.30pm.

So check out MUTB for other events in Singapore .

ONE Author, THREE Artists, THREE Monsters - Book Launch

2009-03-12T15:50:00.010+08:00

To all passionate book lovers, Ethos Books warmly invites you to the launch of 3 books from the Monsters in the Mind series. Meet author Adeline Foo, and illustrators - Joshua Chiang, Christopher Martin and Lee Kowling.

Introducing THREE fun stories about MONSTERS created from imaginations in overdrive – endearing stories with the right dose of morals.

Monsters on the Wall, illustrated by Joshua Chiang

The Thing Under My Bed, illustrated by Christopher Martin

Nu Nu, The Ring-Necked Monster, illustrated by Lee Kowling

What's on:
Saturday, 14 March 2009
Open to Public (Museum charges apply)
Time: 5 to 6.00pm
Venue: Mint Museum of Toys (26 Seah Street)
MRT: Bugis
Admission: Adult $15, Child below 12 - $5, Free for child below 2
Info: Ethos Books at tel: 6846 4771

To RSVP your attendance, please email: events@ethosbooks.com.sg or contact Adeleena at: 6846 4771.

How to get there:
Nearest MRT Station : City Hall
Buses : SBS Transit 007, 032, 051, 063, 080, 145, 175, 197 via North Bridge Rd

More info on Ethos Books website and Monsters Under the Bed.

Other activities:
First bookstore appearance for Monsters in the Mind series
Story telling & autographing
Saturday, 21 March, 3.30 - 4.30pm
Venue: Kinokuniya at Takashimaya, Ngee Ann City, Orchard Road

On-the-spot doodling with K1 children
Monday, 23 March, 8 - 10am
United World College of Southeast Asia, East Campus

National Museum Workshops
Saturday, 30 May, 10 - 11.30am
Sunday, 31 May, 10 - 11.30am

More details will be announced on the workshops and launch of 4th book.
Bookmark "MUTB" for future updates.

Have a great weekend.

A Blue Cat's Tale - Storytelling cum Drawing Session at Kinoluniya Book Store

2009-02-13T06:41:00.005+08:00

Join author Sangeetha at Kinokuniya on the 21 February 2009. There will be a reading session of her book A Blue Cat's Tale as well as drawing activities for children. Her session starts from 2pm to 2.20pm. For more information, please click here.

Synoposis of the book: Max has just moved to a new home but all the other cats are afraid of him because he's blue! Follow Max around his neighbourhood as he tries to find a friend.

Winner of the 2008 First Time Writers & Illustrators Publishing Initiative Award, supported by the Media Development Authority and the National Book Development Council of Singapore.

Ignorance on public transports

2009-01-21T17:35:00.003+08:00

I wanted to write about this a long time ago but didn't as I was hoping for a miracle that can improve people's attitude towards the subject, which of course didn't happen.

My mum fainted on the MRT today on her way to the Dental Centre at Outram. Apparently a young woman who went into the train together with my mum took the Priority Seat and starting reading. Nobody let her sit down until she fainted at Raffles, which is two stops before Outram. I often sigh about the ignorance of passengers on board public transport, specially with the young and able Singaporeans.

There are signs that specifically remind people to give their seats to the elderly, pregnant ladies and little children, yet it seems to me that most young people are partially blind, handicap or illiterate (I wonder if the book or newspapers they hold right in their face are some kind of fashion accessory since they can't read simple signs as shown here). SIGH!

Believe it or not, there is even a national campaign to remind the people in this "world class" country to be courteous. The National Courtesy Campaign was a campaign launched in June 1979 by Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew as a means of encouraging Singaporeans to be more kind and considerate to each other, so as to create a pleasant social environment.

More than half the time the girls and I were on the train, we were standing. The other half of half, if we were offered the seats, they were given by those who should be sitting, say uncles and aunties in the fifties or above.

Ok, there are people who may argue "oh, I don't know if the someone I am offering the seat to will get offend, if they don't belong to the categories." To me, there is nothing to lose (ok a few minutes to sit and sleep). If the other person don't need to sit, he/she may say "no. thanks". Plus, the categories were just basic examples. It didn't show people who are blind or handicap ... does that mean you should not give your seats to them. Giving is a good thing.

Do I always give up my seat to other in need? Yes, in fact I even have my girls to share one seat whenever there is a need to give up two seats at one time.

So, next time when you see someone in need of a seat, please be kind and offer the seat.

Book Fair

2009-01-19T06:30:00.003+08:00

Pan Asia Publishing is having a bookfair at Julia Gabriel at Forum Gallerie on the 4th level from the 17/1/09 to 23/01/09, 9am to 6pm. Feel free to drop by and link to this message. :)

Have a great week ahead!

Wishing you a Happy Christmas

2008-12-09T08:57:00.007+08:00

in advance!

Just want to thank you all for all your greetings, support, friendship and love.
We wish you all good health and abundance of wealth and wisdom.

Cheers!
(Ps: Photo taken at Harbourfront. Christmas display designed by illustrator Andrew.)

A busy school holiday

2008-12-03T17:07:00.008+08:00

... so far.

The girls are fully occupied pretty much every day. Last week, Hannah had 2 hours pottery session at the community centre in the morning everyday other than Wednesday and spend all afternoon with Eileen (Taiwanese friend) after lessons. Weekend was burned for tap rehearsals. This week they hanged out with Tessa, Hannah Neo and Wen Xuan. Today Sock Peng and I went to the beach and Parkway. The rainy season has started but the weather was good all day today. Again, Heather got her golden tan.

Tomorrow, Hannah will be having the last rehearsal. On Friday, she will be performing with other dancers from DSI at Republic Polytechnic. The performance is to raise fund for Operation Smile, a non-profit organisation dedicated to repairing childhood facial deformities. Tickets are still available. Please support the event. Below are details. (Click on image to enlarge)

Goodbye grandma

2008-11-20T18:08:00.003+08:00

My grandmother left us peacefully yesterday. She was 99 year old. In my memory she is a brave woman who raised 5 children of her own and a couple of her sisters by herself. Thank you for devotion and love.

Book Launch for Chilli Padi

2008-09-27T18:59:00.000+08:00

Join author Adeline Foo on Children's Day at the launch of her new book "Chilli Padi" at the Philatelic Museum.

Adeline shares the pride of her new book, illustrated by local artist Lee Kowling. "Chilli Padi" introduces young children to early Peranakan heritage, through the story of Puteh who is inspired by the author’s childhood memories of being brought up by her Peranakan grandmother. Adeline is also the author of The Beaded Slippers, The Kitchen God, Secret Hoarder, Midnight Tree and Lost in the Secret Garden. Her first book, Ben's Friends from the Rainforest, won the First Time Writers & Illustrators Publishing Initiative award in 2006.

Click the poster on above for information.

Have you seen my Gator mummy?

2008-09-24T11:03:00.006+08:00

Here she comes with her Polliwalks.
Splishing splashing as she walks.
Worry no more the puddles and mud.
She can wear her Gator for a rubber dub-dub.
Let's wander down the beach for some fun.
Leave some footprints under the sun.
Gleefully trotting in the park.
From morning till noon to the day gets dark.
Imagination is what she needs.
She and her Gator are best friends indeed.
Yes, she loves her Polliwalks.
Keeping her feet happy wherever she walks.

These Polliwalks clogs are so inspiring that I actually penned a rhyme about them. Thanks to Leonny for telling us about these interestingly designed shoes on her wonderful blog "Our Everyday Things". Check it out and you may stand a chance to win home a pair of Polliwalks for your kids.

If you’d like to get them for your kids (or your nieces, nephews, friends’ kids, etc), right now they’re available for sale at the Zoo, BirdPark, a couple of OG outlets, and seven of Kiddy Palace’s stores! Retail Price: S$48.15 nett.

* Photos are taken by Leonny and Polliwalks.

Who is sleep?

2008-09-12T09:11:00.002+08:00

Who is asleep?
Written by Anne Smith
Illustrated by Christine Lim
Medium - Watercolour
Publisher - Publishwrite

12 illustrations for a big format children's book for pre-schoolers. Prints are available. Comments are welcome ... as always.

Some thoughts on conservation

2008-07-28T13:50:00.009+08:00

A long due post.

Discovered today is Beatrix Potter's birthday on Google. We are born on the same date but different month and year.

Lots had happened over the past few weeks. Dad had an operation to treat hernia over 5 weeks ago. He had his review and is fine. Mum stayed in the hospital last week for a few days. There was blood in her stool. The doctor admitted her for a scope. It was a relief that her condition was not serious. We think it's the side effect from the chemotherapy she was receiving. She is back at home now and is extremely cautious with her diet. We celebrated her 62nd birthday three weeks ago.

Hannah had her primary tap exam in June while Jon was in UK for 4 weeks. She practised very hard to make sure that she get through. Well done sweetie!

Heather had her turn to participate in her kindy's sports day two weeks ago. She was so fast that I only managed to capture one photo that is clear. Nevertheless we had great fun on that day.

On the work front, I am still working on the big book on nocturnal animals. I have 7 more watercolour paintings to be done. I really enjoy working on the book and reading up on the rainforest and these amazing creatures that need our protection before they disappear due to deforestation and other manmade destruction.

So before ending this post, I would like to recommend a book - The Elephant and the Tree. It is a wonderful book on conservation which was picked up by acclaimed Sandra Dijkstra Literary agency and Running Press. I met Jin Pyn, the author of this book, in 2006 but only got to speak to her this year during ACWIC. She is such a dynamic lady with a great passion in protecting the rainforest and wildlife. For more information about her and her story, please visit her website - The Elephant and the Tree and show your love for mother nature.

Moving on

2008-06-16T00:02:00.005+08:00

Finally some progress with the new big book I am working on. Here a small section of the illustration.

A little fun with friends

2008-06-13T23:45:00.007+08:00

I have not blogged about the girls for a while. We are into the end of the third week of the semester break and we haven't spend much quality time together. I never seem to be able to manage my time efficiently and productively during holidays. Time just slips through the tips of my fingers like running water. Deadline for my next big book is drawing nearer and I am still at the research stage. I can't quite sit down for more than 15 minutes without interruption from the kids. I ended up working at night till midnight or later, which is extremely unhealthy. I am about to go and sort out a scarily enormous pile of laundry that needs to be folded and put into the wardrobes.

This week, I managed to take the girls to see their friends. It is a must to go over to Victoria's house every holiday. We always ended up overstaying. It is simply wonderful seeing the girls spending time with their best friends, pretending to be twins and having a great memory about them. I had enjoyed chatting with Lisa all afternoon too. Today I brought Hannah and Heather to the library and Ikea. Thank god Smaland was not as crowded as the last time we went there. They had an hour of fun while I get to do a bit of sketching at the the cafe. I must admit I really like the coffee and some peace.

Last Sunday Jon and I took the girls to the Night Safari. It's one place that I highly recommend to those visiting Singapore. We will be back at the zoo in August.

Time to revamp myself

2008-06-08T11:47:00.019+08:00

I feel jet lag today. It's as though I just landed from another planet.

Last night after ACWIC, I brought Hannah and Heather to watch Moonbird. The play is based on Joyce Dunbar's beautiful story about a prince who is deaf and how his parents (the king and queen) come to accept his disability and learn to communicate with him in unspoken manner. This production by ITheatre had successful captivated me and my girls. I highly recommend you and your family to watch it next time when the theatrical company brings it back on stage. I hope they will.

Meeting Joyce in person at ACWIC is like meeting the president. She is one extraordinary person. Not only being a widely respected author of more than fifty books for children who travels to give talks on creativity, she also brings up two children, both are very successful in the arts field, and is actively involved with the organisation called In The Picture to promote literature that includes disable children. She really inspires me in the biggest way. She overcomes her deafness, personal obstacles and transforms difficulties into magical moments. Truly amazing.

Thank you Joyce for sharing your wisdom with me personally. Your encouragement will spur me on to become the illustrator I want to be. I hope we will meet again.

Mark McVeigh and Laurent Linn from Simon and Schuster spent an afternoon talking about their jobs as editor and art director. They went into details on the nuts and bolts of acquisition, covered several topics such as what editors like and dislike, the various aspects of book creation from start to finish, the structure of picture book and how they work together with the others in the publishing house. Edward Necarsulmer IV, director of literary agency McIntosh & Otis, shared with us on how to write a query letter and talked about how he as an agent works step by step with his client to guide a book from manuscript to publication. Together, the trio reinforced many interesting aspects that I have learned over the web and through communicating with other illustrators overseas, over the last two years. Aspiring writers and illustrators had definitely benefited from the sessions in one single day.

Laurent surprised me by his friendliness and generosity to share his knowledge as an illustrator, art director and book designer. He pointed out to me what he likes about my work and gave me plenty of advices on how I can improve my illustrations and what I could do to get notice. I really appreciate his patience and not chasing me away for asking so many questions and going to him several times. Thank you very very much your time, Laurent.

There is one person in the speaker's panel who had been particularly sweet. He's non other than John Danalis. He is calm, encouraging and is the kind of friend you would like to have for a long long time. I was fortunate to get the chance to chat with John a little about my work, my family and my mum. I am very touched when he gave me a book illustrated by his partner Stella Danalis. The book is entitled What The Sky Knows. I only opened the book when I got home. On the dedication page, Stella wrote - follow your dreams and reach for the star. It's exactly the same message as the angel card I pick up randomly one and a half years ago at my Belgium client's place. Then later in the evening on my way to Alliance Française to catch Moonbird, I spotted this large poster in front of me that says "Dream Big". Thank you John from the bottom of my heart.

John is the author and illustrator of three children’s titles, Dog 37 being the most recent. He has illustrated text books as well as numerous other fiction titles including Licking Lizard, The Girl In The Cave, and Loku and The Shark Attack. He has also run a studio called Peripheral Vision with Stella and offers workshops at schools and organisations. John is passionate about helping young people connect with and cultivate the storyteller within.

On the first and second day of ACWIC, I had the opportunity to attend two excellent sessions by two reputable publishing firms. Selena from Scholastic and Kelly from Pageone shared their perspectives on book distribution in Singapore and overseas. I now have a better vision to whom I can send my ideas to.

I am glad that I attended this year's conference. Thank you Susan, Selena and Aunty Ros for looking after the girls so that I can go to the conference. Also many thanks to the hardworking people (Rama, Carol, Christina, Serene) at the National Book Development Council for flying in all the experts. I definitely look forward to the future events.

The conference ended yesterday. There are so many things that I have to do to get closer to my dream. I need a few days to quiet my mind and catch that fish, then revamp ... revamp ... revamp.

Tonight, Jon and I are going to take the girls to the Night Safari. I am illustrating a big book on nocturnal animals in the rainforest. The zoo has got to be one favourite place for me to find inspiration.

The end

2008-05-30T21:09:00.022+08:00

Everyone likes for a perfect ending. Unfortunately sometime the ending is not quite perfect.

Today the writer and I ended our collaboration for the book that was selected for publication under First Time Writers and Illustrators Publishing Initiative 2008. It is one of the hardest day of my life. I have been working around the clock, seizing every minute I can get, to come up with the illustrations for the book and yet in the end I had no second option to get my work published. Despite much disappointment, I have learned many invaluable lessons from this one experience. I will continue to hone my skill, take some time out learn to write and read more about the legal and business aspect of publishing. I believe that another opportunity is already on my way.

I am off to illustrate two more big books due in August for my regular publisher. One of the books is about nocturnal animals. I love painting the night scene. Those hours of darkness is both mysterious and fascinating.

My favourite client, who is from Belgium, has commissioned me to paint a couple more illustrations for her greeting cards. I love working with her. She has been a mentor to me and keep encouraging me to reach for the star. I am thankful that she includes me in her journey.

Before I end this post, I would like to share with you some of the sketches that I had done for this 48 pages picture book. I have removed the text but I believe a picture says a thousand words ... feel free to fill in your own words. Enjoy!

Ranting

2008-05-08T11:17:00.003+08:00

Heather recovered from a fever that lasted 2 days and Hannah just finished her mid-year exams while I am exhausted, period. Mum went through her third round of chemo and does not feel fantastic. Thank god I have my dad and sister who takes care of her. I accompanied my dad for his monthly routine check up at the hospital yesterday. We waited for 4 hours to see the doctor. He has some problems with his prostate and small intestine. Doctor suggested surgery if he feels any necessity. Dad said he will continue the drugs and see how it goes. He's most concern about who will take care of mum.

Me? My external hard disk went to heaven on Monday. I have no back up of the data .... actually I did backed them up in DVDs but someone accidentally threw them out when we moved house. Sigh! Anyway, I had sent the disks out to the pro to recover all my precious photos. That's where my last have-not-banked-in cheque going. I hope this will be my very last time having such problem.

On the work front, I have tried my best to squeeze in any time I get (waiting at hospital and between kid's extra classes, Heather's naptime, get up at 5 in the morning, etc) to do some sketches and research. I have only 10 weeks left to complete about 30 paintings (extended from 32 pages to 48 pages + cover). I finished 2 watercolour illustrations for a client who will be heading back to Holland in summer. I have a couple more requests from her which I can only start after my book is 100% completed.

I am running late again. Still, I wish you a good week ahead. Ta.

Update on mum: Chemotherapy

2008-04-23T08:50:00.001+08:00

We have been informed by the oncologist at the National Cancer Centre (NCC at Singapore General Hospital) that mum has to receive chemotherapy. The result on her CT scan shown growth of the tumour on the lower spine. She had radiotherapy in November after feeling pain around her abdominal and back. The tumour grew from a few millimeters (after radiotherapy) to the present 2.7cm. Her oncologist had suggested using Gemzar combined with Carboplatin as her first-line treatment. Initially, the doctor offered clinical trial for her. But because she cannot read English, she got rejected. It is so unfair. There are so many elderly people in Singapore who have cancer and are illiterate, and, not to mention no insurance and CPF . The treatment costs like $2000 a month (excluding other medication and medical checkups) and may be long time in most cases. What options do we have? Will our government help? How much?

I am trying to cope with the stress level by deep breathing.

I hope I can manage so many things, major workload and crucial deadlines (Hannah's exams in May, August and October, extra intensive dance coaching (throughout May and June for exam), 2 outstanding paintings for a client who is leaving for Amsterdam in Summer, 34 illustrations for my book which is due in July (hopefully it's at end of that month), meetings with writer, publisher and bookseller through out the year, Frankfurt Book Fair in October, dad's hospital check ups .... that's all I can think of at the moment ... I am sure I am missing out something). So pardon me if I miss your birthday again.

Please pray for us, especially for my mum to feel painless during and after treatment, to experience no side effect from the drugs, to gain the mental and physical strength to fight the sickness and for good and responsible doctors and nurses to take care of mum. And for all of us to have extra time with our beloved mum and grandma, for all the support (including financial and logistic) that we can get to provide mum the necessary care and treatment, and, equally essential, the energy, good health and optimism that we need to live life to the fullest everyday.

Will keep you posted again soon.

And if you have any advice on chemotherapy or treatment for cancer (particularly lung and bone), please write to me. Thank you. May god bless you and your family with good health. Take care. Thank you for taking interest in us.

Feels like Miss Potter

2008-04-17T23:13:00.004+08:00

I receive a good news 3 days ago. We have passed the selection panel. The National Book Development Council of Singapore (NBDCS) has accepted our work and will give us the grant to publish our book if we adhere to the deadlines and conditions outline by the organisation and publisher (SNP International Publishing).

We are very pleased with the result as the illustrations which we submitted to the organisers sort of went "missing". I was really glad the judges got to see the illos in the end during the interview and like them.

I will be working extremely hard over the next few months. Stay tuned to my blog for more details on the development.

Gotta get back to finish a couple of paintings. Have a fabulous week ahead of you!

Last but now least, thanks for all your kind words of encouragement and letters of support.

Missing child

2008-04-16T15:20:00.004+08:00

If you saw a frantic mum, shouting out her child's name at Bedok Interchange, that was me. Yap, Heather did her disappearing act again. No, not her first time (at a mall) or second (at home ... yah ... hide behind our sofa and eat chocolates) or third (at the zoo with daddy). This is her fourth time and the worst we have ever felt because we were at a very busy place with all sorts of people, plus most the shops are small and crammed with goods, making it really hard to find her.

How did it happen? We were at a kid's apparel shop, looking at some clothes for Hannah and a friend's baby. One minute she was next to me, the next minute she was gone. I yelled very loudly and caught others attention, except my little girl's. Two kind passerby (mother and son) asked me if I have lost my child and helped me to look. A minute later, another came up and told me Heather was outside the supermarket, 200 metres from me. According to a vendor outside the supermarket, her gentle sobbing caught his attention and stop her from walking further. An old neighbour of ours, who happened to be selling pots next to the vendor, noticed Heather and told her to wait for me, who nearly break down in tears.

I really have to come up with a solution to prevent Heather from leaving my side. I told her to shout "mummy" when she cannot see me and should never walk away.

Anyway, it's a terrifying experience for both of us. I hope we have learned our lesson and be extra careful in future. I think she should carry a mobile phone with her when we are out.

Morning Inspiration

2008-04-16T10:36:00.004+08:00

What do I do to get inspired?

Watch Micheal Smith's Chef at Home and Chef at Large on Asian Food Channel first thing in the morning.

We absolutely love the show and his homemade cuisines. And I love his house and kitchen on Prince Edward Island, Canada, too!

If I don't paint, I would be a chef. Ya ... another great opportunity to be creative.

Bon appetite!

2008-04-15T22:41:00.011+08:00

Life is good ... so what's cooking?

We are always in the kitchen. Yes, even the girls are lil' chefs. In fact, the other day Hannah made herself and Heather lunch. She made onigiri with furitake served with tamogoyaki and blanched spinach. In case you don't know what they are, onigiri is a kind of Japanese rice (like sushi rice), furitake is a savoury condiment made of dried fish, seaweed, shiso and sesame seeds while tamogoyaki is Japanese rolled omelet. Yum! We are so proud and happy that our kids love cooking as much as us.

Last week, I made my third batch of kimchi. I stirred in some pork and turned those delicious preserved Korean vegetarian dish into a fried rice.

I also whipped up my own recipe to transform left-over stewed pork into a bowl of tasty rice dish with watercress, fried onions and fresh chillies.

Of the four of us, Jon is the best cook without shadow of a doubt. He has a hidden talent and enjoys being in the kitchen. The other night, he made us this very special salmon dish that he learnt from Charlie Trotter's show on Asian Food Channel. To make this dish, the salmon has to be poached in herbs infused olive oil for a few hours at a very low temperature. To accompany the fish is pan-fried brown rice cake and leek confit soup. The flavour is really delicate and the salmon melts in the mouth like butter on hot rolls.

If you want the recipes, drop me a note. Bon appetite!

Some thoughts today

2008-04-12T17:58:00.001+08:00

Saturday is the busiest day for me. Every Saturday, I have to bring the girls for classes. Hannah will do her 1 hour tap dance at Tampines. Then she and Heather will go for an 1 hour and 45 minutes Chinese lesson at Kembangan. We usually start the day between 8.30 and 9am. After a nice breakfast, we will try to complete all the school work at home, if possible, before heading out. They finish everything and get home by 4pm. I encourage them to have a nap every weekend. I think sleep is so important for the development of the brain. In addition, I get to do a bit more work (drawing, painting, housekeeping, etc) while they nap.

Anyway, I happened to read an article in Weekend Today, a local tabloid, in the taxi on the way to Chinese language centre today. I am glad to read a little reminder and thought I ought to share with you about it.

The article, entitled The Modern Parent Trap, is written by Crispina Robert. She is also the Chief Editor of Young Parent magazine and a mother herself.

She wrote: "Unless money is an issue, most Singaporean children have a calendar that is busier than that of their CEO daddies. I have a sneaky feeling that the increased numbers of children seeking psychiatric help is not just due to awareness, and that there are vast numbers of little people with lots to handle. ... ... I imagine these children putting on a mini-suit and pulling in two shifts a day with weekend duty thrown in. At the age of seven! "

Sad but true - this is the way of life for most Singapore children. How did our society come to such madness? What are we turning our children into? Gone are the days when children play zero-point, hopscotch, five stones, scissors paper stone, Simon says, tug of war, police and thieves, eagle and chicken, etc.

I don't know what category of parenting I fall into. I try my best not to arrange any extra tuition for Hannah, who is in Primary 1, even when she has some difficulties with her work every now and then. I hope I don't have to do that at all through her entire education. The education system in Singapore is very tough. My daughter is doing 5 times more the work than me when I was at her age and we are only 27 years apart. The questions she gets in her P1 exam are what I got when I was in P3 and above.

With the kind of stress and speed we are living in, we have forgotten what is like to be a little child. We have forgotten how lucky we once were to have the opportunity to play in the mud, catch the butterflies, read Tin Tin cartoons, keep spiders as pets, pick wild berries (my husband's childhood past time), etc.

Recently, Hannah said she wants to play GuZheng, an oriental orchestra instrument, at her school. I would love her to learn it and had gotten the consent form from her teacher but I am very scarred that she is over-scheduled. At the moment, other than work from her full day school (which is pretty heavy and requires coaching from me and/or daddy everyday), she is doing ballet and tap (an hour per class per week that require practise which she has not put much effort in at home), Chinese at Berries (which only has a piece of worksheet per week) and swimming (she loves the exercise because she is good at it and it's fun). She is also interested in horse-riding, which she really really wants to do (since she had a go when we were in UK); but we haven't been able to afford and manage to fit any time for the activity.

Ok, back to the point again - "Are children over-indulged, over-scheduled and yet under-parented?" Think about it?

I hope that when our kids grow up, they won't blame us for taking away their childhood. I thank my parents for not taking away mine and never stop me from painting.

I am off to chase some butterflies, jump into the pool and have an ice cream with my babes after they wake up from their siesta. Hack the rain! If life is short, childhood is shorter.

Read full article "The Modern Parent Trap" here.
(I think it's more like "The Modern Singaporean Parent Trap" as it is happening among us, the Singapore parents.)

Marching on

2008-03-19T15:20:00.004+08:00

Hello friends! I am back without a break!

The girls went back to school on Monday after a week of break from school. We were busy preparing for Hannah's ballet exam during the first few days, which was right after my last project for a competition. After 4 months of practise and one whole week of drilling and perfecting the moves, it was finally over last Wednesday. Hannah didn't say much about the exam other than the words "fine" and "I am the only one who understand her English". She really does not care about how well or bad she did in front of the examiner from the Royal Academy of Dance.

Right after the exam, the girls went to their best friend's house to play. Sooner than you can blink, they had forgotten their mummy. But that's ok, I have my companies - their friends' mummy. We all partied hard and had lots of fun over this short holiday.

This week, I managed to get a bit of time in the afternoon to update my overdue blogs and catch up with housework which should be done before this weekend as we will be spending a few days in Bintan with my family. So let's pray for good weather.

Here are some illustrations for First Time Writers and Illustrators Publishing Initiative 2008, a yearly event organised by the National Book Development Council of Singapore. I collaborated with Lynn, a mother who is aspired to be a children's book writer, on this project. I had less than a week to come out with the illos for her book. I managed to complete 1 full colour version with watercolour and 2 tight black and white sketches. Tell me what you think.

I need a break

2008-03-10T16:14:00.001+08:00

Fullstop.

The Felt Elephants

2008-02-25T17:15:00.001+08:00

That's the title of the book I just completed. Here are a few from the 16 illustrations I have done. I think I would do a better job if I have an extra few days. I always encounter problem getting the "true" colours in the scanned illos and I reckon the images lost about 10 to 15% of the details, especially the watercolour effect. Can any reader out there can recommend a scanner, a printer or any solution to the problem? Leave me a comment. Thanks!

Work in progress

2008-02-15T08:59:00.004+08:00

Hello beloved friends and readers, I hope all is well with you. Yes, I have been a terrible blogger of late. I am really really really busy ... and this is what I have been tied up with - The Felt Elephant. I have 16 illustrations to finish in 6 days time. How I wish I have an extra 12 hours each day.

Drop me a note, a comment or email, I will get back to you after I finish the book.

пока ... hasta luego! and take care.

Snapfish your photos

2007-12-21T21:46:00.000+08:00

It's nearly Christmas and the end of school holiday. I am still busy with the girls (whose social lives are far more exciting than mine), my parents and my new book assignment, hence not having much quiet moment which I should getting before another hectic new year begins.

Yesterday, some of Hannah's kindergarten classmates came over to make gingerbread biscuits and today we went over to Hannah's best friend's place to play. The girls had a great time and we, mummies, sat down (at last), had coffee and chatted happily for a few hours. We are looking forward to seeing them again.

I took some snapshots of them and finally got down to put them (and a few other photos taken at some other occasions) on Snapfish - an online digital photo printing service owned by HP.

What I like about Snapfish is that I can store all my photos in full resolution plus printing is just a click away. I don't have to save all my photos into CDs or thumb-drives and take them to photo developing shops and wait for hours or days to get the prints. That really saves a lot of hassle and time.

The site is pretty straight forward and user friendly. You can label all your photos and albums, add captions and share them with your friends so that they too can print those photos from their own account. For security, you can opt to restrict your friends from sending those pictures you have shared with them to others.

The price of each print by Snapfish is only $0.19 and shipping is reasonable too. Besides printing photos on papers, you can also print your favourite pictures on cards, t-shirts, mugs, key rings, mouse pads, as well as calendars (which will be my next project).

Will drop a note on how the photos turn out when I get them in my mail. Meanwhile you can check out Snapfish at www.snapfish.com.sg.

As for now, got to get back to get some house work done before I hit the sack.

And I wish you all in advance (in case I done get the chance to write another post soon) a blessed Christmas and good health for the year to come.

Busy, busy, busy

2007-12-09T23:38:00.000+08:00

The girls are having their school break and that makes us seriously busy. Need to slow down a bit.

Last weekend, Hannah performed at Victoria Theatre. Here are a couple of the very few photos we managed to capture during the show before we were informed that even no-flash photography is not allowed. It's a pity that I didn't get a front view of Hannah doing her dance. She practised really hard for the shows and put up with the make-up that she dreaded very much. We are very proud of her for every effort she put in before and during the show. Well done baby!

Here's Hannah and the snowman I made for the show.

Back view of Hannah

One of the sleighs I made in action

Grand Finale

Now, something less jolly, my mum's health condition. She finished her radio therapy last week. She will be referred to the chemo oncologists for additional treatment on the 18th of the month. Please pray that she will be relieved from any pain, discomfort and depression, as well as an overall improvement with her health. Also, please pray that we can receive financial assistant to pay for her treatments. Thank you in advance.

That's all for now. Take care my friends. Have a peaceful year ahead.

Pray for us

2007-11-24T09:37:00.000+08:00

We received a terrible news two days ago. Doctor discovered a tumour located at the bottom of my mum's spine. She has been advised to receive radio therapy. She also complaints pain around her abdominal. We pray that the CT scan that she will do today shows that she is fine there. Mum has not said much but we have a feeling that she is disappointed and depressed. Since she discovered she had cancer over 6 months ago, she has no desire to do anything ... not even coming over to see her grand kids ... her reason was she is uncomfortable. She stays at home all day and watch tv, which I think is very unhealthy. As for me, busy and tired. Now, stress, can't deny about that ... Hannah's going to Primary 1, financial issues, work, outstanding tasks, etc. Please pray for her and our family.

Will update again when I get the chance.

Home Sweet Home 1

2007-11-09T03:58:00.000+08:00

How has everyone been? I hope you are keeping up well.

Thanks for all your comments and emails and prayers. My dad had a endoscope done last week. Doctor said he is alright in general but they would like to check a few more things to ensure he is really ok. For mum, she continues to have pain around her lower abdominal. My sister said the doctors have not ordered any treatment for her discomfort. The only thing they will be doing is a follow-up CT scan for her lungs. Please continue to pray for their health.

As for us, we have finally settled into your new home. It took me a month to sort out the entire house. I am very pleased with myself for transforming hell to heaven! Look at the pictures and I am sure you will get what I mean.

Our present house has a better layout comparing to the last one. We have a patio where we very often have BBQs. We are now able to fit our bookshelves in a corner in the hall and make it into a study area for the girls. Jon is very happy with his new flat panel TV. For extra comfort in the living room, we are planning to buy over Harmony's sofa when she gets a replacement. The dining area is simple and functional. I forgot to mention that I like the flooring too. Unlike the previous condo, that had black and gray, spotty, granite tiles, this one has light beige tiles that makes the room brighter, plus I can see the area clearly when it's dirty.

I adore the girls' bedroom. I am very glad that the girls loves it. Thanks to Harmony for the bunk bed. Toys and books can now be store away neatly. Now, the girls also make extra effort keeping up after playing and reading. I hope the room will continue to stay nice and tidy.

Our bedroom is spacious and simple. Again, thanks to Harmony for giving us such comfortable bed. My studio is still small but I like it and it works well for me for now.

Jon and I definitely prefer the kitchen in this apartment to the ones in Aquarius. The built-in dish dryer is such a wonderful idea. I don't have to wait till the plates and bowls to dry then put them back in the cupboard. Must have one next time if we don't have a dish washer.

Overall, we all enjoy living in our new home. I hope we can continue to stay in here before we have enough money to buy a place of our own.

Home Sweet Home 2

2007-11-09T03:56:00.000+08:00

Since moving here, we have invited a few friends and their families over for dinner. The first BBQ we had was with Lydia, Yong and their kids, Amanda and Euan.

The second dinner was with Harmony, Leo and Cristan. Jon had a great time making us some of the most delicious food on the grill while Hannah and Heather had fun with friends they haven't seen for a while. As for me, I just simply enjoy my dear husband's cooking and the company of good friends.

Two Saturdays ago, Karen brought her two girls, Leandra and Allysa. over to play. We all have a wonderful girly time together. I am really looking forward to more of such afternoons.

Besides these home parties, we also attended a few other celebrations outside - Jeremy's, Yeng's, Priscilia's birthday, Halloween's party at Gareth's house and Hannah's kindergarten graduation concert two weeks ago. I have yet got the time to sort out these photos. You will see them in the next post.

And now, I shall say good night cos it's 5 to 4 in the morning.

I have got an early start - will rise at 7, send the girls off to school, brew some coffee and continue working on my new project, which I started this week.

So take care my friends and talk soon ... on Skype!

Hide and Seek and Tug of War

2007-10-22T17:52:00.001+08:00

These are not games meant for kids only. We have been tag along when it's time to play.

Let's talk about "Hide and Seek" first. Yesterday, Heather made us search the whole condo when in fact she was hiding behind a chair at home.

What happened?

Hannah and I were in our home office (doing homework) when Heather gone "missing". Jon called out for her several times at home, checked the rooms, wardrobes, looked all around (miss that corner) and there was no reply. We assumed she had sneaked out to the playground through our patio gate which was not locked. He went around the condo but couldn't find her. So Hannah and I went out too to search. I walked down the stairs nearest to our apartment which lead to the basement carpark. There was no sign of her in there but I thought I could hear Heather's voice from the ground floor above. I decided to check out the playground after surveying the carpark. So I took the lift to the ground floor. As I was approaching the playground, I spotted Jon and Hannah. Heather was running towards them behind me. She was smiling as she came nearer. She was in her tshirt and panty. We questioned where she could have been. She said she was at home all the time and she knew when we called her. It's quite unbelievable. When we got home, the sliding door was opened, which means that Heather was indeed the last to come out because I shut it before I left the house to look for her. She showed us where she was. She sat behind the wooden chair, with a packet of newly opened biscuit next to her on the floor. She was probably so focus on opening that packet of biscuit that she didn't bother at responding to us.

I could not stop myself laughing.

Now, for Tug of War, there is me versus the girls and Hannah versus Heather. You won't find me smiling when I am in it. In fact, everyday I ask myself, when will there be tranquility and harmony among us.

Hannah turned 6 a month ago and I feel like I am dealing with a 16. These days I find it so hard to get her to listen and follow instructions (such as: put her shoes on the shoe rack after removing them, pack up her toys and room, do her homework without giving the same old excuses, postphoning the job or complaint (unfairness) that her sister has no school work or too little because she (Heather) completes her tasks quicker than her, eat up all the veggies without stuffing her entire mouth which makes chewing and swallowing more difficult, etc). The thing that winds me most is when she talks back at me. I admit I am not very patient when I am busy and angry words burst out of my mouth quickly and loudly when I reach boiling point. I only learn to yell after becoming a mother and honestly I am tired of raising my voice and hearing "sorry mummy". I have tried praising her but she doesn't like it when I say she has done well, she also doesn't like hugging and kissing. When I say "I love you", she says "I know I know".

Yesterday, a taxi driver started talking about his teenage son. Like most parents, he loves his son and wants him to be well (and leaves the wrong company of friends whom he picked up all the bad habits from). But sadly, we always show our concerns and intentions in the wrong manner and words. I am guilty of being harsher than I should be. I am aware that I need to change my way of parenting and acquire to more positive skills to bring up a developing child and foster a more loving mother and daughter relationship.

As with Heather, the experience is pretty similar to that of Hannah. The one that gets me lately is going for a pee before a nap after lunch and sleep at night. Sometimes I trusted her that she had gone to the toilet but only knew that she didn't when her bed is wet. The other one is biting her fingers and nails. I just can't get her to stop. Any solution, anyone?

Tug of war between the sisters, I don't think I need to explain more. Lately the girls have been fighting constantly with each other over nothing very easily. Heather picks up a handful of new not-so-nice words from her sister and used them on her. Hannah is fond of pointing fingers at Heather when things go wrong and that winds Heather up. Their bickering and tales-telling drives me nuts. I know that sibling rivalry is normal, yet I can't help hoping that threat each others as friends. I tried getting the girls to hug each other to make up. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. Last night, it didn't. In fact, they argued even as they laid down to sleep. The bunk bed didn't help much. Separate rooms, maybe.

This morning around 7.20, the first thing they did right after they woke up is, of course, fight (over a tiny dog miniature of less than 2cm). I was not in the best mood plus we were in a hurry to get ready for school so it didn't help. What a great way to start the day.

I want to be a nice mummy and not like Cinderalla's step mother. On days like these, it's just impossible. I can't wait for this phase to be over. Will it ever?

Animals planet

2007-09-24T23:20:00.000+08:00

I was very fortunate to be assigned to illustrate some of the most beautiful creatures on our planet. Living in the city, the only place for us to see animals is in the zoo. We are lucky to have a superb zoo. In fact, Singapore Zoo is voted as one of the best zoos in the world. I especially love our Night Safari. If I have a chance, I would love to go to the wild, like South Africa, and see the real animals planet.

Here are some illustrations for "A day at the zoo". I am very pleased with the entire set of drawings. I put in a lot of work and imagination to ensure the expression and feel is right. I think I went a bit nuts with the details but the strange thing is that it was not tedious as it looks. Tell me what you think.

Click here to return to main page.

Moving house this weekend

2007-09-24T22:59:00.000+08:00

I think the title says it all. I only have a few days to pack the house up. Wish me luck to get all the things done in time. I am really excited to move this time. I can't wait to get me studio set up and start working on my next project.

Before I sign off, I would like to make a prayer request for my parents who haven't been very well lately. Dad, especially, complaints about discomfort in his chest and feeling run down frequently. He was admitted to the hospital last week for check up after doctors discovered that his pulses seemed irregular. He was better after a couple of days. Please pray for good health for them. Thanks.

Drop me a note to let me know how you are doing out there. Take care. Sleep well.

Save this boy

2007-09-23T19:58:00.000+08:00

I am passing on this message. Hope someone out there will be able to help the boy who is in need of O+ blood.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear all,
My nephew (My only sister’s only son) has not been in very good condition these couple of weeks. For some who’s not aware, he is only 6 years old and was diagnosed with Childhood Leukemia since the age of 16months.
He’s in quite a critical condition recently and only God and miracles can help his condition. He’s got low blood count and has blast cells (cancer cells) all over his body. He needs platelets transfusion twice a day so that his blood count can be stabilized. If not, the doc cannot administer chemo on him.
As of yesterday, the doctors said the blood bank has a shortage of O+ platelets (My nephew’s blood group is O+). They will only be able to give him one transfusion a day (instead of twice as prescribed) because they need to reserve for emergency cases as well.
His latest blood reading is:
Platelets: Only 13
Blast Cells: 30%
If you can help, do donate your blood or email to your friends to ask them to go to SGH to donate their blood (regardless of what blood group you are).
Tell the nurses that it is for:
Name: Chan Xiang Qi
Birth Certificate No.: T0117540/D
Thanks & God bless this child.
Cheryl Ong

BBQ Party for Hannah

2007-09-17T01:30:00.001+08:00

On Saturday, we threw a BBQ party for Hannah and her friends. Jon was the chef of the night and once again his culinary skills impressed many. Thank you dear for all the sweat and enduring the heat from the fire all night to make us such delicious food. The menu includes Tandori Chicken with salad and cucumber mint sauce in wraps, grilled whole salmon with herbs, barbecue beef steak and sweet corn wrapped with bacon, grilled sausages, broccolis, caponata (Italian vegetable dish), barbecue new potatoes with olive oil and herbs, and last but not least Hannah's birthday (carrot) cake from Room for Dessert.

Special thanks to Janine and Marianne for the extra hands we needed during preparation, Harmony for the charcoal , Karen for the birthday banner and Penny for taking the pictures for us.

Many thanks to all who turned up and make this party a memorable one for Hannah and all of us in the family. We have so much fun.

Here are a few photos taken by Penny and Harmony (thanks). Will post more when I receive more from the rest of you at the party.

PS: sorry if we are missing you in the pictures.

Read more on Penny's blog (全家就是我家) on our party.

Happy Birthday

2007-09-17T01:20:00.000+08:00

Hannah turned 6 on Friday. She celebrated her birthday with her classmates. I ordered a customised cake from Indulgence Treats. Special thanks to her teacher, Mrs Fernandez for getting the children organised for the small party.

After her school, I brought her and her sister to Parkway Parade for an extra treat at Swensen, where the birthday girl got a complimentary ice cream.

What's happening?

2007-09-13T12:00:00.000+08:00

Lots, since we returned from UK sixteen days ago. Not too long after, I accepted a new book to work on. This time I get to draw wildlife animals. I rarely illustrate animals so it is refreshing and exciting. So far I have completed the tigers, deers and giraffe. Presently working on elephants.

Tomorrow is Hannah's birthday. She turns six. I have prepared the goodie bags for her classmates and ordered a cake. There will be a small celebration at her school. She has been waiting for this special day for a year. Then on Saturday evening, she will have a barbecue party. We are all looking forward to it.

At the end of the month, we are moving out of this current apartment. We are lucky to find a place just opposite the present condo. I have a lot packing and cleaning up to do once I finish my project.

If you don't hear from me, you know what I am up to. Meanwhile a few more photos from our holidays before I sign off. and wishing you a great week ahead.

Ps: please pray for my mum and dad's health, and better financial situation for them. Thanks.

I felt the earth move

2007-09-13T09:32:00.000+08:00

Last night around 6 something in evening, there was an earthquake in Indonesia. The girls and I were having our dinner and I felt the tremors. I felt giddy for about 30 seconds or more. At first I thought it was just me working too much in front of the computer, then I heard my neighbours, Janine and her kids and Marianne, coming out of their apartment. So I went out to double check the situation. Only at that point, it was clear that there must be a earthquake somewhere near Singapore. All of us left our home on the 14th floor for the ground floor and found more people experiencing the motion. News reported that this earthquake measured a magnitude of 7.9. We thank God that Jon was on the way to the Philipines and not Jakarta this time. We prayed for everyone's safety within and around the region.

This morning, not long after waking up, Hannah said she felt something. I thought I felt the shake again when I was changing the bed sheet in the girls' room after they have left for school. Could be an aftershock, I am not sure.

Back on the island

2007-09-03T10:55:00.000+08:00

We got back from a short holiday on Tuesday. We spent a week in Yorkshire.

It was Heather's first trip to UK and a very enjoyable one indeed. I flew a day earlier on Emirates on my own while the girls flew with their daddy on Singapore Airline because their tickets were free, using Jon's frequent flyer miles.

Thank you all (Roger, Brenda, Caroline, Liz, Matt, Andy, Aunty Harriet, Uncle John, Chris and Sheila at The Shoulder of Lamb) for your hospitality. You have made our stay a very memorable one.

I will post you the photo CDs when I get the photos from Jon's laptop.

Here are a couple of snapshots for the time being. Will post more about our holiday when I get the pictures and time to write a couple more stories.

We are very fortunate to visit the Lake District again. Here's a glimpse of Ullswater and mountains from the summit of Aira Force waterfall (or is it High Force). Walking in the woodland is such a wonderful experience for me and the girls. The smell of oak, pine, ash, and many more natural wonders of the countryside is simply unforgettable and inspiring. I will go back on any day. It's no wonder why Beatrice Potter moved to the lakes.
One of the primary reasons to go to UK this time is see the cousins of the girls. It's amazing that the children just play happily together without any introduction. Emily, Charlotte, Alfie and Joe, it's such a pleasure seeing all of you. We are looking forward for you to come and visit us next.

Camping at Settle in the Yorkshire Dales was lots of fun for us. Although the temperature was around 10 degree in the evening with freezing northern wind, we were happy in the outdoor under the star-filled night sky. I brought some Chinese lanterns for the kids from Singapore. They had a good time getting them lit up. Their joy is priceless.

We spent a day with the very loving and hospitable Aunty Harriet in Bedale, North Yorkshire. We had a lovely sunny day at Fountain Abbey, Ripon. This historical landmark is 800 years old. Read more at this website.

After that day, I can better understand why Aunt Harriet is a very dear person to Jon. I can happily spend my days with her, learning about the history of UK and baking. I was sad to say goodbye actually. I hope we will meet again in near future.

Before I end the post, we must thank Brenda and Roger for letting us stay at your home in Halifax during our visit. Thanks for the putting up with our mess and troubles ... and the gifts for the girls!
That's all for now. Got to hit the sack. Hugs to all.

Ps: Just a quick note to let you know that mum is doing fine after her vocal cord operation. So good to hear her voice again.

I is for Native Indian

2007-07-22T14:14:00.000+08:00

These two illos done some time back. They are for a phonic book.
Comments are welcome.

Good health and bad health

2007-07-19T10:34:00.000+08:00

Some good news to start the post. My mum went back to the doctor for review yesterday. It is a relief to know that mum is doing fine and need not have to go through chemotherapy or radiotherapy. The doctor told my mum and sister that the cancerous tumour has been removed and her lungs and lymph nodes are cleared. She will have another review in 3 weeks time. We hope that this good result will stay true for the rest of her life. Please continue to pray for her recovery and health. Thank you all for your kind thoughts and support over the last few months.

As for me, not sure why is the phlegm at the back of my throat not going away. The symptom has been sticking around for months. I have been taking chinese medication over the past 3 months and trying to rest more these few days. Anyone know a good doctor or natural cure? Please pray for my health and that I will find a cure for this irritation. Thank you.

Book #4

2007-07-16T10:11:00.000+08:00

Hello. How are you?

Once again, thank you all for your emails and kind thoughts on my family. Mum is doing ok in my sisters good hands. She makes sure that mum eats and sleeps well everyday. No chores, only rest. We will know the result of her health from the doctor tomorrow. Please continue to pray for favourable results and healing.

As for me, still working hard towards my dream. In fact I push myself a little too hard at times. My health needs a bit more t.l.c and my body needs a bit more rest. Sometimes I have to learn to say "thank you but sorry, just not this time" to opportunities I really love to take on and that is really hard. Sharon, I assure you that I will be back with you with more oomph! than ever after this short break. You have a wonderful time in Prague and Vienna too. :)

Here are some of the illustrations I completed last week. I learned a lot about perspective when working on this book (Where I Live). It was fun designing all these houses, wish I get to design my own one day. Yes, still lot of rooms for improving my drawings and exploring my watercolour technique and style. By the way I have problems getting the colours corrected for the screen. The hue on the original is a lot more natural. Any advice?

Travis - Closer

2007-07-15T17:10:00.000+08:00

A little break from the drawing desk.

From my favourite band from UK - Travis
Click here is the link.

If you have trouble viewing the video, try clearing your cache.

Update on mum

2007-07-04T00:26:00.000+08:00

First of all, thank you all for your prayers for my mum and my family. Many apologies for not able to reply all your comments and emails. I did read through each note that you have sent.

Mum had her operation yesterday. Her lymph nodes were clear so the doctor removed the lower lobe of her left lung. Currently, mum's condition is stable and is recuperating at the hospital. Her vocal cord was affected due to the surgery. She couldn't talk yesterday. Today she spoke a little to me and the girls over the phone. She is given some drugs via intravenous tube for pain relieve. Mum is so brave. When we saw her yesterday, Heather and Hannah both hold her hands many times to give her comfort and strength. Thanks girls.

The tumour that was removed had been sent to the laboratory for investigation. We will know what is the next treatment after knowing the result in a week or two. Please pray for mum's recovery and that the tumour is not malignant. And for peace and mercy.

Today, my mum's sworn sister visited her. She told my sister how mum suffered when she had TB. As mum does not have kins here in Singapore, she was "adopted" by her sworn sister's mum. When she was very very sick, her half-blooded sister actually conned her to give her hard-earned money (as a Chinese opera singer) that was supposed to treat her illness. Everyone avoided mum because they were afraid that the disease might be passed to them. Only mum's sworn sister stood by her and got her mother to take my mum in as a family. I am very sad when this story was told. Mum has never mentioned about this or ever talk about her childhood and younger days. If we know that she has TB, we could have taken extra care for her lungs. We pray that God will give us the chance to take extra care and provide her all our love.

Thank you my dear Sis for taking such good care of mum over the past few days. 加油! I am burning midnight oil every night to finish my job by this week. Will update again when I get a moment.

Please pray for mum

2007-06-09T23:38:00.000+08:00

How should I begin this post? I have delayed writing about this piece of heartbreaking news for several weeks.

More than a month ago, my mum went to do an x-ray for her chest. She has been having a mild cough on and off for a few months so my sister took her for a checkup. We were shocked to find out that she has a tumour on her left lung. My sister and I cried a lot when we were told that the tumour could be malignant. We are much calmer now.

We have been in and out of SGH (Singapore General Hospital) two to three times per week to further investigate her health condition. Poor mum has to be pricked at least once a week whenever the doctor ordered a CT or Ultrasound scan or blood tests. So far she had gone through scanning for her lung, brain, bone and thyroid. We are told abnormality can been seen in her lung and thyroid.

Last Tuesday mum was admitted to the hospital for a biopsy. She sobbed a little when she was there. I wish she cries more instead of hiding her fear, worries and sadness when she is in front of us. We have been reassuring her that we love her and many people have been cured. She doesn't talk as much lately and we tried hard to cheer her up and help her stay positive. Her joy comes from my girls, mostly.

On Tuesday we received the result of the biopsy. The doctor confirmed to us that she has cancer. The tumour can be removed if her lung function is normal. She did a pulmonary function test and it wasn't good, probably due to the damage caused by TB which she had over 40 years ago. On Wednesday, she had a lung perfusion scan to further evaluate her condition. The purpose of this test is to detect pulmonary embolisms, determine how much blood is flowing to lungs and which areas of the lungs are capable of ventilation. Her doctor gave her some medication (Prednisolone, Seretide and Ipratropium) to improve her lung condition and treat any infection. Then the next day, Thursday, she underwent another biopsy. This time on her thyroid. We now pray and hope that the little spot in her thyroid is benign. We will see the doctors again next Tuesday and Thursday the results and treatment options. Besides SGH, we also took mum to a TCM physician who specialises in oncology to boost her immunity.

Dear friends and readers, please pray for my mother. We prayed hard that she will receive the cure and God will be kind and merciful to her. May God grant her peace and comfort during this difficult time. Thank you in advance for your kind thoughts.

Will update again soon. Take care.