Glimpses......

Joel at the Australian Open 2012

2012-01-30T00:32:00.001+11:00

Highlights of Joel as a Ballkid at the Australia Opn 2012.

Reporting for Orientation Day 10/1/2012

It rained and hailed on the Day 1 of the Qualifying Rounds (11/1/2012).

Finally, went on court from 13/1/2012.

He was given 2 tickets as a Ballkid, and mummy and daddy had the special priviledge to watch a tennis match at the Rod Laver on Day 1 (16/1/2012)

Joining mummy and daddy to watch the Caroline Wozniacki vs Anastasia Rodionova match at the Rod Laver Arena after his shift. (16/1/2012)

Waiting with his fellow ballkids before a shift.

Feedback and Briefing from Supervisor after a shift.
Daddy capturing special moments of his on-court performance.
Trying to keep cool in the shade during a match break. It's 34C today!.
He also serviced the Wheelchair matches.

Chinese New Year 2012

2012-01-23T23:53:00.000+11:00

As Joel's shift at the AO2012 was very unpredictable, we couldn't plan for Chinese New Year celebrations.
On Chinese New Year Eve, he was rostered on the afternoon shift, and started work at 3pm and finished at 7.45pm. We had our reunion dinner at 9+pm at Rock Kung . It's almost like reunion supper!

On the 1st day of CNY, he was lucky to be rostered for the morning shift. Hence, we could have a simple dinner at home after work.

Tossing Yu Sheng with Daddy.

Farewell Mrs Castle

2011-12-22T23:53:00.000+11:00

Jayna's teacher Mrs Castle is retiring after teaching for 15 years.
"We wish you well and happy retirement Mrs Castle!"

Finally, a trip to Singapore

2011-12-22T15:27:00.000+11:00

The day finally arrived. We are finally heading to Singapore for this long-awaited trip. As you can see, the kids are beaming and all excited.

Jonas' Graduation

2011-12-21T23:43:00.000+11:00

This evening was Jonas' Graduation from Primary School. They had a semi-formal dinner, followed by a Graduation Ceremony.

Presentation Night 2011

2011-12-20T23:37:00.000+11:00

Joel's percussion ensemble had a performance at tonight's Presentation Night.

Christmas Lights.

2011-12-18T23:21:00.000+11:00

Here are 2 Christmas traditions that we have started since living here

1.Driving around to see beautifully decorated houses.

2. Going for Carols by Candlelight, and watching the fireworks.

God's creation

2011-12-13T23:53:00.000+11:00

Saw this interetsing looking spider tonight at home...

High School, here I come!

2011-12-12T23:07:00.000+11:00

Jonas had his High School Orientation today. These are some of his friends from his Primary School who will also be attending the same college as him. 2 of them will be in the same class as him next year.

December Showdown.

2011-12-11T23:30:00.000+11:00

Joel reported for his maiden Ballkid duty today at the Decemeber Showdown for the Australian Open Wildcard Playoff.
Warming up and last minute briefing from Supervisor before going on-court.

This is the Ladies Finals between Ashleigh Barty and Olivia Rogowska.

15 year-old Ash Barty finally won and secured a place in the main draw for the Australian Open 2012. (http://www.tennis.com.au/news/2011/12/11/barty-bound-for-the-australian-open )

He was also servicing the players in the Mens Finals. But we were not back in time to take pictures. :(

Almost there....

2011-12-04T23:13:00.000+11:00

Joel collected his Australian Open 2012 Ballkid Uniform and Accreditation today. It's only about 6 weeks left before he starts his duty. He's getting excited.

New Summer favourite

2011-12-04T00:02:00.000+11:00

Summer is here! This also means that it's Mango season!! This is our latest favourite Summer dessert: Mango Sago

Year 1 Concert 2011- Celebrations Around the World

2011-11-17T23:48:00.000+11:00

Jayna had her Grade 1 Concert this evening. The Theme for this year's Concert is - Celebrations Around the World. Jayna's class did a Mexican song- Senor Don Gato. She and her friends had to dressed as Cats.

Cool Cats of 1GC!

Jayna and John introducing their class item.

The Grand Finale.... singing a favourite Aussie song- Home Among the Gumtrees.

Year 7 Music Showcase

2011-11-16T23:56:00.000+11:00

Joel had his Year 7 Concert tonight. He was performing with the Percussion Ensemble. He is enjoying learning to play the drums this year in school, and is doing pretty well.

Australian Girls Choir Annual Concert 2011

2011-11-13T23:11:00.000+11:00

Today marks the start of our week of year-end concerts for the kids. Jayna had her AGC Concert this afternoon.

Her level performed Shirley Temple's songs.

As the girls were singing Shirley Temple songs, they were encouraged to come dressed with ribbons on their hair and curls if possibel.

11-11-11

2011-11-11T23:16:00.000+11:00

It was an eventful day for the 11-11-11.
In Australia, we celebrate Remembrance Day on every 11 Novemeber. 2011 marks the 93rd anniversary of Remembrance Day (also called Armistice Day).

Every year, on 11 November at 11 am - the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month - Australia pauses to remember those men and women who have died or suffered in all wars, conflicts and peace operations since the beginning of the 20th century.

Today is also theMt View's Annual Twilight Carnival. It was a time for the school community to come together to have fun and raise funds for the school. Of course ,the kids had a great time at the Carnival.

Of course, not to be missed...... 11 Novemeber is also Mummy's & Daddy's Wedding anniversary. After the Carnival, we headed to Straits Cafe for Malaysian feast to celebrate.

Summer is here!

2011-11-08T22:32:00.000+11:00

It's summer weather this week. The kids have asked for Japanese Soba since it's so warm the last 2 days. It's 30C today.
Tonight's dinner: Japanese Cha Soba with Stir-fry Teriyaki Beef

Happy 7-Eleven Day!

2011-11-07T23:18:00.000+11:00

It's 7-11-11 today, also known as 7-Eleven Day here in Australia. All 7-Eleven stores will be serving out free Slurpees to all customers who visit the store and say " Happy 7-Eleven Day" !

As it was a hot day (max 30C) today, we had to queue for 30 mins at the nearby 7-Eleven Store after school to get our free Slurpee.
The elated children enjoying their 2nd slurpee of the day

Thanks 7-Eleven!

Jonas' 12th Birthday Party

2011-11-06T23:19:00.000+11:00

Jonas invited a few friends and we went bowling to celebrate his birthday.

This was followed by lunch at KFC.

Jonas turns 12!

2011-11-04T22:58:00.000+11:00

We have another teenager in the house! Jonas turns 12 today.
We went for Peking Duck Dinner to celebrate his birthday.This is one of his favourite food.

Home-made Rocky Road Ice Cream Cake.

Spring Blossoms

2011-11-01T22:46:00.000+11:00

Flowers are blooming around our yard

Roses

Pig Face

Aloe Vera

Yes, our strawberries are coming...

Jonas returns

2011-10-13T23:41:00.000+11:00

Can't believe that 3 weeks have flown by and Jonas and his friends returned from Toluca this afternoon.

They were tired after the long flight back from Los Angeles, and are certianly glad to be back with loads of happy memories and stories to tell.

Chwee Kuay

2011-10-09T23:46:00.000+11:00

Mummy finally found the time to cook this. She missed this so much that she finally bought the moulds from Singapore and attempted to make them. Yummy!!! Sadly, Jayna who has never eaten this before was not impressed, while the rest of us enjoyed it wholeheartedly.

Hola Mexico! Here I come

2011-09-26T12:24:00.001+10:00

The day finally arrived! Jonas has been looking forward to this day for more than 1 year. He is finally heading to Toluca, Mexico as a member of the Mt View's ISSE Delegation. While in Toluca ,they will be staying with host family and attending school at Springfield Collegio. It's 3AM!!! But the excited travellers are all smiles and not blurry-eyes.

" I just can't wait to get on board the aeroplane!!"

All the tired parents who can't wait to get back to bed.

AOBK 2012

2011-09-24T23:15:00.000+10:00

Joel started his 1st ballkids training today. We had to send him to the Melbourne Park, and took the opportunity to walk around the city before his training starts.

Kids having fun at Melbourne Park

The training always starts with a Site Jog so that all the ball kids are familiar with the area around Melbourne Park.

Hola! Mexico. I'm coming soon

2011-09-23T23:00:00.000+10:00

Today is the last day of Term 3. Jonas and his friends in the ISSE Delegates were farewelled at a Special Assembly in school as they will be travelling to Mexico in 3 days time. They also presented a snipet of Cultural Presentation which they will be presenting when they are over there.
The presentation comprised of songs, dance and even a humours skit of famous Australians.

Can you recognise the various famous Australians? From L-R: Ned Kelly, Steve Erwin, Julia Gillard, harry Kewell, Nicole Kidman and Donald Badman)

Weed?

2011-09-17T23:43:00.000+10:00

These pretty blue flowers started to grow in our neglected garden. We have been neglecting our yards.... it's full of weeds. Not sure if they are weeds or flowers. But they are sure pretty.

Year 6 Exhibition 2011

2011-09-15T23:20:00.002+10:00

Jonas had his Year 6 Exhibition this evening .This is a celebration and showcase of the students' learning as part of the International Baccalaueate Primary Years Programme. The theme for the Exhibition was" Sharing the Planet-"

Jonas had to work with his friends in small group to research and present a topic on how the way we use and share resources impacts the Earth. Being Animal Lovers, they chose to explore the idea of Animal Poaching. They had to present what they have learnt as well as make their exhibition interactive for their audience to share their knowledge.
Jonas and Stanley sharing some facts on Animal Poaching through a Quiz.
All the students also presented song items that reflected the theme.

The music that evening was provided by a "live" band comprising of Teachers and the Assistant Principal.

Mooncake Festival 2011

2011-09-11T23:05:00.000+10:00

This year, Mooncake Festival fall on a Monday. It was difficult to celebrate it as it's a school day. Hence, we celebrated it the day before with Aunty Tili and her family. It also happened that Grand Aunty Irene came from Devonport for a visit. It was a nice little family gathering. We are all enjoying our Nasi Lemak Dinner.

It was a cold Spring Evening, too cold to have our lantern procession outdoors. Hence, the kids decided to have their lanterns indoor and just admire the lights.

Desserts time- Ice cream, Agar Agar , Tau Fu Fah and Moon cake

Happy Fathers' Day

2011-09-04T23:59:00.000+10:00

It's Fathers' day today. We celebrated with the Quahs with a simple dinner at home and ice cream for desserts.

Jonas' 1st Junior Winter Season Tennis

2011-09-03T23:51:00.000+10:00

This Winter, Jonas started playing tennis competition in the Junior Season. He was very blessed to be part of a team of wonderful boys. At the end of the season, they came Runners Up in their level.

The boys having a cheeky moment to ward off the nerves before their Grand Finals Match.

It's Eildon Park (Blue) vs Eildon Park (Red) for the Grand Finals

Jonas, Dylan and their opponents before their Doubles match.

A very proud Jonas with his medal

Fog ! Fog! Fog!

2011-08-20T23:51:00.000+10:00

Mummy and Jayna were on their way to Singapore for a surprise visit to celebrate Por Por's 70th birthday. Due to the heavy fog, the flight was delayed for 8 hours.

A very bored Jayna at Melbourne Airport Departure Lounge

At 6pm, the Jetstar flight from Sydney finally arrived. Yay!! We are finally going to Singapore!

A hungry but excited Jayna enjoying her meal of pasta and watching Toy Story 3 onboard.

Brentwood Music Gala Concert

2011-08-10T23:41:00.000+10:00

Joel had his debut drum performance at the School's Gala Concert. He had to play a solo piece

as well as play in the Percussion Ensemble. Unfortunately, he was standing at the back right corner which had poor lighting and was blocked most of the time by the Conducter.

Happy Birthday Grand-Aunty Florence

2011-08-09T23:00:00.000+10:00

As Singapore celebrated her 46th birthday, we celebrated Grand-Aunty Florence's birthday.

We went over to Aunty Tili's home for a yummy home-cooked dinner.... Fried KL noodles ( the noodles were specially and lovingly hand-made by Aunty Tili), Fried Wan-tons, and Roast Chicken.
A beaming Grand-Aunty Florence.

Daffodils & Hail

2011-08-06T23:17:00.000+10:00

Our latest daffodils to bloom.

The kids were thrilled to play in the hail, after a sudden hailstorm this afternoon. Luckily, it's only small hailstones!

Hola! Mexico, here I come!

2011-08-03T23:20:00.000+10:00

Jonas was excited and proud to be selected for the MVPS ISSE (International School to School Experience) 2011Delegation to travel to Toluca, Mexico in September. He has been looking forward for this opportunity to be part of the ISSE programme since Joel went to China last year on a similiar exchange programme..
He and his Team members are now busy preparing for the trip to Colegio Springfield in Toluca, Mexico.Look out for more information soon.

Rainbow

2011-08-03T22:49:00.000+10:00

Saw this beautiful rainbow after school today

Can't help but have some fun with shadow play

Spring is in the air!!!

2011-08-02T22:45:00.000+10:00

Today, we were blessed with beautiful sunshine and warmer weather. We are hoping that Spring will soon arrive.
Look at all the blooms.

We can't wait for Spring to come.

Christmas in July 2011

2011-07-27T23:24:00.000+10:00

Every year, Mummy's work place will celebrate Christmas in July as part of their Staff Appreciation Day. This year's event was mysterious and fun. The staff were not told where the lunch was held and who their Kris Kringle ( Christmas Gift Exchange) was until just before they left the office. They were then instructed to make their way to Harbour Town in Docklands and await further instructions.
On arrival at Harbour Town, they were given instructions to shop for their Kris Kringle. There was a mad rush of frantic shopping

Then they gathered at the nearby Coffee Club to have coffee and wrap our gifts.
The final set of directions.... to make our way by foot to the New Quay Buffet Restaurant for a well-deserved International Buffet Lunch.

Muumy and her fun bunch of colleagues from her Dept.

More winter blooms

2011-07-27T00:29:00.000+10:00

Winter blooms from our yard.

Brrrr!!

2011-07-16T23:18:00.000+10:00

It was the coldest morning (1C)so far since Winter started. The boys were up early and out playing Tennis competitions. Look at the frost and ice on the bench and shrubs.

Fog

2011-07-15T23:11:00.000+10:00

After yesterday's beautiful sunshine, the weather changed this morning. Melbourne was shrouded in thick fog.

Holiday fun

2011-07-14T23:28:00.000+10:00

This school holiday we were kept busy eating and tennis.

Celebrating Aunty Miriam's birthday @ Aunty Rachel's place.

Tennis clinic and Round-robin

Early signs of Spring

2011-07-11T23:05:00.000+10:00

It's barely 6 weeks since Winter started and flowers are beginning to bloom. This is probably due to the amount of rain that we have been getting this Winter. Hopefully Spring comes early this year. Nonetheless, these blooms certainly add some cheer and comfort to a cold and wet Winter this year.

Daffoldils im our back year.

Farewell party for Uncle Kelvin & Aunty Eliada

2011-07-10T22:20:00.000+10:00

Uncle Kelvin and Aunty Eliada are soon returning to S'pore to begin a new season of their lives. Today is the start of many more farewells that we are having for them.

Food Galore

Great fellowship and laughter

We are going to miss both of you, especially all the fun & laughter that you bring!

Joel's Baptism

2011-07-09T23:43:00.000+10:00

Joel made this important decision to be baptised. It was a very special service as it was held during our regular Celebration meeting. Joel was one of the 2 youth to be baptised during that service.

Joel invited the Finns and Grand-aunty Florence to the baptism service. However, they were late and arrived shortly after his baptism.
However, we went for dinner together (at Sophia's Burwood) after the Service to celebrate the occassion.

Australian Girls' Choir Winter Showcase 2011

2011-06-25T23:04:00.000+10:00

Jayna had her AGC Winter Concert today. She had been practicing hard and looking forward to the concert for weeks, and is really glad that it's finally here.

The Finale , with all the performing girls

2 happy piccolo choirsters after the conert.

An opportunity of a lifetime

2011-06-17T23:14:00.000+10:00

The results are finally out!! After 4 weeks of waiting, Joel received the email giving him an opportunity of a lifetime - to be a BALL KID at the Australian Open 2012!!!
In January this year, we found out that the Australian Open is recruiting Ballkids volunteers for the next AO in 2012. Both Joel and Jonas applied.
On 27/3/2011, they were both selected to attend the Level 1 Selection Trials.

Joel, Jonas & Nicolas (Jonas' classmate) at the Selection Trials.

They are assessed on how they can roll, drop and catch the Tennis ball. as well as how agile and quick they are.

They were both selected to attend the Level 2 Selection Trails at Melbourne Park on 15 May 2012.

This was a more challenging trial as they were tested again on how they can roll, drop, throw and catch a tennis ball. There was also a test and an interview. There were about 400 kids applying for the 300 positions.

We are all very proud and happy that Joel has been successful. Jonas unfortunately was unsuccessful, and was definitely disappointed. However, that didn't last long as he found out that his classmate Nicolas, as well as 2 other friends of Joel were also unsuccessful in their application. He is keen to try again next year, and realised that he had to practice harder before the Trials next year, as he didn't practice hard enough this year.

Looking at the Tennis "Wall of fame" before the start of the Trials..... trying to gain some inspiration and confidence.

Class of 2011

2011-06-13T00:34:00.001+10:00

School photos of the kids for 2011

Princess Jayna is 7!

2011-06-04T23:47:00.001+10:00

The day finally arrived. Jayna turns 7! She has been looking forward and counting down to her birthday since 1 month ago.
Her celebration started with her class teacher, Mrs Castle's special "Happy Birthday" ceremony first thing in school. Mrs Castle has special hat for the birthday child, the class sings " Happy Birthday" and the birthday child will blow a special birthday candle. Jayna also gave out lolly bags to her classmates at the end of the day.
In the evening, we went to The Stamford Bristol for her birthday dinner. She had specially requested for this dinner venue as it is one of her favourite restaurant where kids eat for free on Thursday and there's free face painting too.

Her birthday cake at home. Nope, mummy didn't bake this one. We bought it from Coles , it was on "markdown" and cost only $5, and Jayna loved it!

Her birthday presents from overseas.

On Sunday, she had a birthday party at home with 7 of her girl-friends from school. They all had a great time beading, and were happy to go home with a bead braclet and necklace .

The happy birthday girl with all her pressies

Meeting of old friends

2011-05-25T11:18:00.001+10:00

Aunty Maureen, Rhema & Shema came back to Melbourne for a visit in preparation of their move back to Melbourne and we had a chance to catch up with them and Aunty Roxanne and family.

See how much the kids have grown. This picture was taken just before they left Melbourne 4 years ago

Winter comes early

2011-05-23T23:12:00.000+10:00

Winter came early this year. It's only May, yet we are having chilly , windy & wet weather. This lovely tree went from Autumn to Winter within 1 week.

Hillsong 1 Day Conference- Melbourne

2011-05-17T23:59:00.001+10:00

Hillsong had a 1 day Conference in Melbourne as part of their 25years of Hillsong Conference celebration. As it was a working day, we only attended the evening Worship session. Gosh! It was a culture shock!! We felt like we were attend a rock concert and went home partially deaf!
What was amazing was the crowd and the enthusiam of the young people worshipping and praising God.

Jonas & Jayna attending Hillsong Kids programme.

After the Conference while walking to the car, saw these pretty reflection along the Yarra River.

Star of the week-Jayna

2011-05-12T23:27:00.000+10:00

It's Jayna's turn for "Star of the week". She was looking forward to this Special Priviledge position in class and also preparing her special powerpoint presentation to share with her class.

At the School Assembly, she had to introduce herself and share what she enjoyed doing

Hail & the coldest morning in 3 years

2011-05-11T22:47:00.001+10:00

We woke up to a freezing morning and found out that this has been the coldest May morning in 3 years (http://www.news.com.au/page-for-rss/temperatures-plummet-as-australia-heads-into-winter/story-e6frflrr-1226057294737?from=public_rss). It was 1C. It was a miserable wet and cold day.
This evening, shortly after we arrived home from school, there was a hailstorm.

Of course the kids were excited to have something new to play in the yard

Mothers' Day 2011

2011-05-08T22:51:00.002+10:00

This year, Jayna was the most excited to celebrate Mothers' Day, and has been counting down daily since mid- April.
On Friday, mummy was invited to school for Mothers' Day Tea at her class.
During the tea, some mums were checking their child's work

while some mums were busy doing craft

Mr Dobson, the school principal also dropped by to wish all the mums a "Happy Mothers' Day"

The children also sang a special Mothers' Day song
and did special craft for their mummy

Jayna presenting her hand-made gift to mummy
On Mothers' Day, Jayna and Jonas woke up early in the morning to plan a special surprise for mummy....
Jayna picking flowers in the backyard
Jayna and Jonas creating their special Mothers' Day greetings

We had Special Big breakfast
and Roast Chicken with Chestnut, Bacon and Sticky Rice Stuffing

to celebrate Mothers' Day, specially cooked by Masterchef Mummy!

Precious hand-made Mothers' Day gifts

Joel's Easter Hamper

2011-05-02T22:30:00.000+10:00

Joel won this Easter Egg hamper and tickets to the Gaint Sky Wheel in 2 seperate phone-in contests held by Light FM, a local Christain Radio Station. We just picked up the prizes today, and the kids were really excited.

Chestnut Fever

2011-05-01T22:12:00.000+10:00

It's Chestnut season here in Melbourne. Uncle Kelvin and Aunty Eliadah went to pick chestnut and gave us a big bag of them This got mummy inspired to cook Roast Chicken with sticky-rice and chestnut stuffing

Curious to see the real chestnut and chestnut tree, we went to the Chestnut Festival at Kalorma Reserve but was disappointed that it was a small fair with only 1 store selling fresh and roasted chestnut, but no chestnut tree.

These are freshly picked chestnut

There was also a stall selling these pretty flowers... mummy can't resist but to take a picture

Mummy bought more chestnuts, and tried new chest nut recipe...

Lotus Leaf Glutinous Rice

LightFM Star Club Family Day @ Luna Park

2011-04-30T23:44:00.010+10:00

We finally went to Luna Park, courtesy of Light FM Star Club ( a membership club of the local Christian Radio Station). The kids have been looking forward to going to Luna Park and are elated to go on this outing despite having to wake up early on a Saturday morning.

Unfortunately, Jayna was too short for quite a number of the rides. Here's one that she can go on - the Sky-Rider.

View from the top of the Sky Rider

Of course, she could go on the Carousel

Here we are at the Scenic Railway

The boys enjoying the more exciting rides, that Jayna can't go on

After the event, we went for a walk along St Kilda beach

Kids having a play....

while Daddy ponder about where to go for lunch.

We also visited this interesting community garden

Easter/Anzac Day Picnic

2011-04-26T22:51:00.001+10:00

It is a 5-day looooong week-end public holiday (Good Friday, Easter and Anzac Day). Aunty Serena organised this S'porean friends get-together at Tim Neville Aboretum. The weather was perfect for an autumn picnic.
The food was plentiful and yummy.

.
We had a great time meeting new and catching up with our Singaporean and Malaysian friends.

Farewell Roody

2011-04-25T22:36:00.001+10:00

What a bumper to the Easter Holiday! :( Daddy found Roody dead in the yard this morning. He had escaped from his hutch overnight, but we do not know the cause of death as there were not visible injuries.

Our pet cemetery
Roody and the kids at Chinese New Year 2011.

Bush-walking in Warrandyte

2011-04-23T22:19:00.000+10:00

We joined Uncle Steven and friends for bush-walking at Warrandyte State Park on this beautiful Easter Saturday morning.

We started at the Gold Heritage Trail ( http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/resources05/05_2212.pdf , http://bushwalkingblog.blogspot.com/2009/06/gold-heritage-walk-warrandyte-state.html )

The men discussing which direction to take...

while the ladies and kids discussed about where to go for lunch!
Finally, it was decided that we'll head downhill back to the car and then to Pound Bend Reserve for our picnic lunch.

Picnic lunch at Pound Bend Reserve

After lunch, it's Bush-walk 2 ... to look for Koalas and Kangas

More Autumn Colours

2011-04-22T23:51:00.000+10:00

Toadstool

2011-04-22T23:39:00.000+10:00

Can't resist taking pictures of these lovely toadstools. Seeing them brings back memories of Enid Blyton's stories of pixies and toadstools.

Sunset

2011-04-19T22:48:00.000+10:00

Just awed by the colours

Autumn Colours

2011-04-19T22:34:00.001+10:00

The only thing I appreciate about Autumn... the beautiful colours......

Free Cone Day

2011-04-12T22:05:00.002+10:00

It's Ben & Jerry's Free Cone Day! We went to Chadstone after dinner and enjoyed free-flow of Ben & Jerry's ice-cream. It was really yummy!!

Contented after all that ice-cream!BTW,we had 18 scoops of ice-cream between the 5 of us.

Our Kitchen Rule

2011-04-10T23:22:00.002+10:00

Tonight we had a massive Barbie Cook-out at the Quahs.
Outdoors, the men were busy doing "the Aussie bloke thing"- cooking the meat on the barbie

While indoors, the ladies were furiously grilling and baking seafood.
We also had a surprise birthday celebration for Uncle Tong Lee whose birthday falls on the 16 April.

It was also a special reunion of ACS 4D Class of 85

Aunty Agnes comes to visit

2011-04-10T23:06:00.003+10:00

Aunty Agnes (mummy's ex-colleague from LFC) came with some of her relatives for a visit to Melbourne. We were happy to be able to spend the day with them.
We had yummy Yum Cha lunch together and went to Mt Dandenong.
Here we are feeding birds at Grant Picnic Ground
The kids were pampered by her sister Aunty Lina at the Lolly Shop!

Sweet corn

2011-04-06T22:58:00.002+10:00

Finally, Jonas' corn is really for harvest.

He was really excited to harvest them today....

We had corn-on-cob for dinner. Yummy and sweet!

Bat Tennis

2011-03-24T22:57:00.002+11:00

It's Inter-school sports season in school. Jonas was selected to play in the Bat Tennis team . He has been very driven and practiced hard everyday before school and at recess.

Pie Floater

2011-03-23T22:43:00.001+11:00

Uncle Chris bought us this award-winning Chicken Pie.
Mummy made a delicious pie-floater for dinner today.

A Reunion

2011-03-17T23:36:00.001+11:00

Mummy's Uni friend Aunty Mag came to Melbourne for a visit. She had a mini NUS Social Work Class of 91 and NUH Alumni Reunion over a simple but delicious home-cooked pot-bless dinner.

In Melbourne, dinner is never complete without dessert & coffee!!

Fresh Oysters @ South Melbournre Market

2011-03-12T23:29:00.000+11:00

We couldn't resist having a tray of these freshly shucked Oysters when we went to South Melbourne Market today

Daddy's birthday

2011-03-07T23:20:00.000+11:00

As we had too many feasts over the last month, Daddy opted for a simple birthday celebration at home this year.
Dinner of Fried Birthday Noodles with Scotch Fillet Steak

Homemade Lavender Pound Cake.

Spiders

2011-03-06T23:54:00.000+11:00

Can't help it but just had to take these pictures of these pretty spiders found in our yard on this sunny autumn day.
Look at the spider enjoying the fly meal.

Spider Gymnatics

LightFM Open House

2011-03-05T23:51:00.000+11:00

Light FM is a Christian Community Radio Station in Melbourne. Today, they had an Open House at their new office building. The kids were very excited to go and also see some of the radio DJs face to face.
Going on the Station tour , led by Cassie Nichols, one of the evening DJ.

There was lots of free activities for the family like face-painting and sausage sizzles, fairy floss, ice cones
Here are some of the other DJs

Jesse Smith

Lucy Holmes

Luke Holt

Joel is 13!

2011-03-03T23:38:00.001+11:00

We have a teenager in the family! Joel turns 13 today! We had a simple family dinner at Sam's Bristol to celebrate his birthday as he had just returned from Year 7 Camp this afternoon and is pretty tired.

The next evening, we celebrated his birthday again together with members of our Life-Group.

We also celebrated Daddy's birthday since it was just around the corner. It's a homemade ice-cream cake.

The girls showing off their face and body painting

Purple Day

2011-03-01T23:32:00.000+11:00

Today is Purple Day in school. All the students can go to school wearing something purple. This is in support of Al's Angels, a team of Mt View staff led by Ms Rees, the Assistant Principal who took part in Cancer Council Victoria's fund-raising event - Relay for Life.

Summer Harvest

2011-02-28T23:19:00.001+11:00

Jonas harvested his 1st crop of potatoes over the week-end , and is very happy with his harvest.

We are looking forward to more harvest soon.

Mt Dandenong with Uncle Bon & Aunty Julie

2011-02-27T23:59:00.002+11:00

We spent a lovely day with Uncle Bon and Aunty Julie, showing them some of our favourite spots at Mt Dandenong.
Sassafrass

Daddy and Jonas also had lunch with them at Miss Marples Tea House, while Joel was at Tennis and Jayna at Choir.

Olinda

National Rhododendron Garden

Sky High

Uncle Bon & Aunty Julie comes to visit

2011-02-27T23:38:00.065+11:00

Daddy's ex-colleague Uncle Bonnie and his wife Aunty Julie came to Melbourne for a short holiday. We were very happy to host them and had a fantastic time showing and sharing with them about life in Melbourne.
Uncle Don is a die-hard Man U supporter, we brought him to Waverley Gardens to see one of the Hawthorn Hawks stadium

At home....

Enjoying pies from "Pie-in-the-sky' for breakfast

Daddy showing off a popular aussie bloke activity.... barbie & beer

Mt View's Chinese New Year Celebration

2011-02-22T23:27:00.000+11:00

There was a special Chinese New Year celebration at school today. Students can come to school in chinese costume or red /yellow clothes. There was a special school assembly where the students were treated to chinese cultural quiz, umbrella dance, drum , and even lion dance performance.

Chap Goh Mai

2011-02-17T22:59:00.001+11:00

After all that feasting and it being a school day, we had a quiet family affair to mark the last day of Chinese New Year. Nonethless, we still had Yu Sheng and had fun tossing it.

Glen Waverley Chinese New Year Festival

2011-02-13T22:53:00.002+11:00

This is one of the few events where we can soak in and enjoy Chinese New Year festivity in Melbourne.Despite it being a chilly summer day, we still headed there to enjoy the day.

Jonas and Jayna enjoying the free craft activities.

Daddy catching up with some friends while wating for Jayna to finish her craft activity.

Por Por, Kong Kong & Yee Yee leaves

2011-02-10T21:45:00.000+11:00

After 5 weeks of fun, feasting and celebrations, Por Por, Kong Kong & Yee Yee reluctantly returned to S'pore.
Por Por, Kong Kong giving last minute advice and prep talks to the kids

Look! even Melbourne Airport is decorated with Chinese New Year decorations:

More Chinese New Year Feasts!

2011-02-09T23:37:00.000+11:00

We had Yee Yee's friends, Aunty Sylvia and Aunty Maria over for Chinese New Year dinner as well.
Check out our special "Rabbit Yu Sheng"

Dinner with Uncle Joo Seong & Aunty Kim

Chinese New Year Celebrations 3

2011-02-05T23:29:00.000+11:00

Uncle Allan & Aunty Cerene hosted a special Manna Fellowship Chinese New Year Dinner. There was lots of yummy food, praise and worship and fun activities.

Chinese Calligraphy Writting Competition:

Fashion Parade for Best Dressed Person. Por Por won the top prize.

Chinese New Year Celebrations 2

2011-02-04T23:59:00.000+11:00

It has become a tradition that we will invite Uncle Merv, Aunty Monica, Uncle Leo & Aunty Bernardette to celebrate Chinese New Year with our family. This year is no different.
Melbourne was hit a wild storm just as they arrived. Look at the flood in our backyard.

Despite of the wild weather, we had a lovely time just catching up with all of them and enjoying a night of good food, laughter and great company.

Back to School

2011-02-04T23:49:00.002+11:00

It's back to school after all that Chinese New Year feasting.

Joel starts High School this year!
Jayna in her new classroom and some of new classmates
After school, it's play as usual at Mt View Primary School playground

Chinese New Year Celebrations 1

2011-02-03T23:36:00.000+11:00

Xin Nian Kuai Le!

Enjoying our Special Chinese New Year breakfast on the 1st day of Chinese New Year. Thank God , its' still school holidays, and the kids can celebrate the day

Chinese New Year goodies.

Look at the feast that Por Por cooked for dinner!

Chinese New Year Eve Dinner

2011-02-03T23:19:00.000+11:00

Aunty Tili and Grand Aunty Florence invited us to join them for Reunion Dinner this year. We were treated to a feast lovingly cooked by many chefs.

Kids having their share of fun.

There waw a special fireworks treat for the kids after dinner.

Chinese New Year Shopping

2011-02-03T23:09:00.001+11:00

Chinese New Year is just around the corner. Por Por is busy shopping and to prepare for the big celebrations.

Yee Yee is busy with her mobile while waiting.....

Tu Xian Kuai Le, Wan Shi Ru Yi! 新年快乐

2011-02-03T16:32:00.001+11:00

Make a free scrapbook design

The Great Ocean Road Getaway 3

2011-02-02T23:57:00.000+11:00

We took a slow scenic drive home, stopping for lots of photo taking and fresh air

Apollo Bay

Looking out for Koalas near the Kennett River

The Great Ocean Road Getaway 2

2011-02-02T23:50:00.000+11:00

Watching Sunset at the Twelve Apostles.

It was a 40C summer day in Melbourne, but it was nice and cool at the Great Ocean Road. We thank God that we can enjoy the magnificant view of the ocean without freezing or worrying that we will be blown away by the wind.

Did you also notice that there's no "bad hair day" in the pictures.

The Great Ocean Road Getaway 1

2011-02-02T23:40:00.000+11:00

Yee Yee arrived for a short visit and to celebrate Chinese New Year with us. So we took a quick getaway to the Great Ocean Road.
First stop..... Geelong.... Home of the CATS!

This is the beautiful holiday home we rented for the night at Yuulong

Boxhill Chinese New Year Festival

2011-01-29T23:27:00.000+11:00

Chinese New Year is just around the corner. This evening, we brought Por Por & Gong Gong to Boxhill for the Chinese New Year festival. They really felt at home with all the different stalls and free activities.

Por Por's favourite stall for the night.... members from the Boxhill Liberal Party writing Chinese Couplets and giving them away...

Australians, let us all rejoice.....

2011-01-26T23:15:00.001+11:00

Today is Australia Day. We were invited to Australia Day Tea by our friends from our previous Life-group.

After dinner, we went to the Whitehorse City Council Australia Day celebrations. There was a large outdoor concert and fireworks display.

Waiting patiently in the cold of the fireworks dispaly to start.

Holiday Fun @ Hays Paddock

2011-01-25T23:01:00.001+11:00

Today, we finally had a chance to catch up with the Coreas and the Lays. The kids had a wonderful time playing at the playground at Hay's Paddock .