Just to prove that some things have changed for me, my priority was to enroll The Little One into KinderMusik and Gymboree over visiting friends and shopping. I do like my friends and yes I miss them but some how it was very important for me that The Little One is stimulated with something different and enriching.
And boy was I so quickly rewarded. I could see the change in her. We went for a Kindermusik trial session today and she enjoyed herself very much and I was suitably impressed. The teacher was very engaging and each child had his/her own individual minutes with the teacher. The Little One did not stick to me like glue. She explored her environment and went forward to the teacher asking for the different equipment. Everything was so new and so different to her. She was truly exploring her environment. In fact I often had to call her to come back to me because she was so excited she wanted to stand in front of the teacher.
I must say that I am very pleased. So much so I have commited the remaining weekdays here to more sessions. I even signed up for membership and bought whatever curiculum they were willing to sell to me. I do look forward to have some sessions with her at home.
I am guessing she is missing her toys and books. She was really concentrating on the toys in Starbucks just now and even asked for a book which she happily read to herself.
Its days like these that often makes me wonder how worthwhile is it for us to stay there. But I do realize more than anything that we can afford whatever it is we're affording here because we live there. Although with the current currency exchange our spending power is quickly diminishing.
I forgot how incredibly expensive Singapore is until today. But we're having a blast! Thats the most important thing I guess.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Aidilfitri
I'm off to Malaysia and Singapore for Eid. Wishing everyone Eid Mubarak.
I would like to apologize for my short comings and may Allah bless us all to good days ahead.
I would like to apologize for my short comings and may Allah bless us all to good days ahead.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Mothers Against Untrained Teachers I
When I thought that I would have more time for myself once The Little One is in school, boy was I so wrong!
Apparently at least 4 other mothers are upset with how the things are in school. I was invited to a meeting with them to discuss the school.
Because my Little One was crying so much the first two weeks, I had to spend some days with her there and could see how the school was run. Which made me quite angry really. Because what I saw was more of a babysitting service rather than a nursery. For AM's class there was no teacher, just two helpers. They spend the first 45 mins with freeplay with the toys downstairs. And then they are made to go upstairs to their "classrooms" which had proper tables and chairs. With AM's class they were given crayons to color, or puzzles to play with. There were about 4 object picture books in the class, no story books. And then there was "PE" where they were told to play and the Skate Park, an underground playground about 5 minutes walk away in then 42oC. What's the point in that when parents could themselves bring the children there after school? They should have water play or be making more crafts! Or even have a story read to them.
More alarmingly were the stories the other mothers were sharing with me. The boys were in 2 different "classes" then my Little One. They came home using the word "Stupid" either among themselves or their helper. Its a reflection the children have in school really. Either the teacher has used it on a child or have not stopped the children from using the word.
So we discuss our strategy on approaching the owner of the school. We have to make sure we are constructive. The owner, SH, has been described as a brick wall. Not a person normally associated with running a pre school. We would wish for someone with a lot more smiles, enthusiasm, passion for children and creativity. From what she tells us her background is teaching 11 grade science. So we listed some changes we would like to see, for example, we don't want the 2 year old children spending time in a classroom learning to write with a helper holding their hand and practically writing for them. Alphabet recognition is nice but not really necessary. Basically we want to see our children have more fun. Do more crafts. Read more. And improve their quality of play. Surely its not too much to ask?
Especially since we're paying a handsome sum for them to go there. It costs us $60 a day (in local currency) plus $500 registration fee. For the Little One who goes 3 times a week, it costs us $720 a month. For the children 2 and above who goes everyday, their parents pay $1,200 per child. Quite expensive for a babysitting service surely! Its about time we get some value for our money or we'll bring our business elsewhere!
There is a lack of flexibility in term's of a parent's choice in the nursery. For example, I had planned on sending my Little One just once a week and gradually increase her time there once she has settled in. But SH promptly told me that for her age group, its 3 times a week, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. There was no room for negotiation.
SO today is our third meeting. We decided to discuss our approach first before meeting her in the afternoon. Wish us luck! I will keep my thinking positive and I hope that SH will take our suggestions on board.
Failing which MAUT may come up with Plan B.
Apparently at least 4 other mothers are upset with how the things are in school. I was invited to a meeting with them to discuss the school.
Because my Little One was crying so much the first two weeks, I had to spend some days with her there and could see how the school was run. Which made me quite angry really. Because what I saw was more of a babysitting service rather than a nursery. For AM's class there was no teacher, just two helpers. They spend the first 45 mins with freeplay with the toys downstairs. And then they are made to go upstairs to their "classrooms" which had proper tables and chairs. With AM's class they were given crayons to color, or puzzles to play with. There were about 4 object picture books in the class, no story books. And then there was "PE" where they were told to play and the Skate Park, an underground playground about 5 minutes walk away in then 42oC. What's the point in that when parents could themselves bring the children there after school? They should have water play or be making more crafts! Or even have a story read to them.
More alarmingly were the stories the other mothers were sharing with me. The boys were in 2 different "classes" then my Little One. They came home using the word "Stupid" either among themselves or their helper. Its a reflection the children have in school really. Either the teacher has used it on a child or have not stopped the children from using the word.
So we discuss our strategy on approaching the owner of the school. We have to make sure we are constructive. The owner, SH, has been described as a brick wall. Not a person normally associated with running a pre school. We would wish for someone with a lot more smiles, enthusiasm, passion for children and creativity. From what she tells us her background is teaching 11 grade science. So we listed some changes we would like to see, for example, we don't want the 2 year old children spending time in a classroom learning to write with a helper holding their hand and practically writing for them. Alphabet recognition is nice but not really necessary. Basically we want to see our children have more fun. Do more crafts. Read more. And improve their quality of play. Surely its not too much to ask?
Especially since we're paying a handsome sum for them to go there. It costs us $60 a day (in local currency) plus $500 registration fee. For the Little One who goes 3 times a week, it costs us $720 a month. For the children 2 and above who goes everyday, their parents pay $1,200 per child. Quite expensive for a babysitting service surely! Its about time we get some value for our money or we'll bring our business elsewhere!
There is a lack of flexibility in term's of a parent's choice in the nursery. For example, I had planned on sending my Little One just once a week and gradually increase her time there once she has settled in. But SH promptly told me that for her age group, its 3 times a week, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. There was no room for negotiation.
SO today is our third meeting. We decided to discuss our approach first before meeting her in the afternoon. Wish us luck! I will keep my thinking positive and I hope that SH will take our suggestions on board.
Failing which MAUT may come up with Plan B.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
School week 3
After 9 days of being in nursery, The Little One is finally settling in. Slowly.
The school owner finally realized that she needed to be distracted with crafts or activities so that she would forget to cry.
Surely any trained early childhood education practitioner would have known that. But I have decided to keep my gripe about the school and its untrained staff separate from my quest to get The Little One used to the idea of going to school.
I am happy with her progress. DH who drops The Little One to school tells me she still cries when he leaves her. But at least I don't have to accompany her in school. The school owner says she cries on and off. She stops crying when its time they did some craft, even though they felt the craft activity may be too advance for her but she seemed to like it. Not surprising since we have been doing those activities at home.
I tried a combination of bribery (Ice cream for breakfast and cookies in her lunch box,) stickers as positive reinforcement and homeopathy and Bach flowers remedy. Pulsatilla seems to help ease the transition and Bach rescue remedy pastilles as a treat on her way to school. And prayers of course! Lots of prayers, morning, midmorning, day and night!
Already I have seen many changes in her. She is getting stronger physically, gaining better control of her motor skills. She can climb the stairs to the slide all by herself. She knows the difference between pull and push. One afternoon, while having lunch, she was making airplane noises while putting cookies in her mouth. I was surprised when she proclaimed, "Eplane!" to me.
While looking at pictures, she pointed "C!" to me. Then I realized that she is pointing to the sea. It was a picture that Elisa (or was it Taufik?) had taken for us in Kh0b@r with the background of the sea. How does she know these things? I guess she has been taking notes all along.
On the other hand she has perfected the art of fake crying. She does it to get my attention. Something that she didn't use so much. She sometimes give up a high pitch cry to get attention. Perhaps its something that she realize works in attracting attention. I have tried to ignore the behavior hoping that she would not be screaming so much.
She is constantly testing her boundaries. When I tell her that a behavior is unacceptable, trying out different variations to make sure that they are all not acceptable or if she could get away with anything at all.
She can ask for "Ice cream" quite clearly and "gogurt" (yogurt). Her current favorite food is "mush-room" and "bisket" (biscuit.)
I wish that the school would be more stimulating but unless trained staff are employed I don't think it would happen overnight. On the other hand, the opportunity for her to interact with other children some old and some younger than her is quite valuable. And that she understands that she could have some fun without mummy being beside her.
The only thing that makes me a little nervous is that in 2 weeks we're scheduled to go away for a month long holiday, and I hope we don't have to start the adjustment period all over again from scratch.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
School week 2
Thank you Nina, MobileMom, AnaSalwa and Elisa for your words of encouragement.
And the status of nursery for week 2? Still weak.
I guess from the day we took The Little One home, we knew she could cry. A far cry really from the day she was born! The NICU matron told us that she could not cry. She did not cry when she was hungry or otherwise. The first time when she was taken out of her incubator and brought to my room, we were overjoyed to hear her cry. And there was no stopping her thereafter.
And cried she did at Nursery. Apparently there was no way of distracting her. Occasionally when she was not crying she would be asking for "susu" or "umi." I had to join her in school again on Sunday. She was doing very well when I was in the room with her. She could even play by herself at a quiet corner while I played with other children. That didn't bothered her. She was happy as long as I was in the room.
The teachers kept asking me if she was still breastfed. As I had read the thoughts of other mothers like me, who continue to breastfeed after our child is 1 year old, its an uncomfortable topic with people who didn't do the same. Somehow non breast feeding moms feel that this is a character flaw.
I told them that she can survive without milk and she doesn't really need it. She would be quite happy with the juice if offered to her.
Yesterday they didn't call me and I thought perhaps its a good idea to pick her up at 11:30 instead of 12:15. I thought she was doing much better.
But apparently not. They said they tried all sorts of things to make her stop crying including putting her in a room all by herself. She was told that she would be taken out only if she stopped crying. Do threats and intimidation really work?
I understand the benefits of time out. But an anxious child being punished?
The school owner also suggested that perhaps she could come to nursery for 5 days a week instead of three. They thought that perhaps the 4 days break is a too long. I talked to my friend and she felt 3 days a week was long enough. Afterall The Little One is only 20 months. 5 days a week, 4 hours a day is a lot of time being away from Mummy she felt.
How do I feel about all this? I do want her to go to Nursery because I feel its important for her to know that she can have fun without mummy. And that even when mummy goes away, she does come back. And that being independent can be a good thing. Reasons why I decided to send her to Nursery in the first place.
But I don't want her to get all traumatized or anything.
Aside from prayers, I am also trying alternative therapy to calm her down. I tried giving her homeopathic remedy, first chamomilla and today pulsatilla. I even put two drops of Bach Rescue remedy. We'll see how it pans out today.
I know that things may have to get worse before it gets better. I just don't want to break her. I really hope she learns to have fun in school.
And the status of nursery for week 2? Still weak.
I guess from the day we took The Little One home, we knew she could cry. A far cry really from the day she was born! The NICU matron told us that she could not cry. She did not cry when she was hungry or otherwise. The first time when she was taken out of her incubator and brought to my room, we were overjoyed to hear her cry. And there was no stopping her thereafter.
And cried she did at Nursery. Apparently there was no way of distracting her. Occasionally when she was not crying she would be asking for "susu" or "umi." I had to join her in school again on Sunday. She was doing very well when I was in the room with her. She could even play by herself at a quiet corner while I played with other children. That didn't bothered her. She was happy as long as I was in the room.
The teachers kept asking me if she was still breastfed. As I had read the thoughts of other mothers like me, who continue to breastfeed after our child is 1 year old, its an uncomfortable topic with people who didn't do the same. Somehow non breast feeding moms feel that this is a character flaw.
I told them that she can survive without milk and she doesn't really need it. She would be quite happy with the juice if offered to her.
Yesterday they didn't call me and I thought perhaps its a good idea to pick her up at 11:30 instead of 12:15. I thought she was doing much better.
But apparently not. They said they tried all sorts of things to make her stop crying including putting her in a room all by herself. She was told that she would be taken out only if she stopped crying. Do threats and intimidation really work?
I understand the benefits of time out. But an anxious child being punished?
The school owner also suggested that perhaps she could come to nursery for 5 days a week instead of three. They thought that perhaps the 4 days break is a too long. I talked to my friend and she felt 3 days a week was long enough. Afterall The Little One is only 20 months. 5 days a week, 4 hours a day is a lot of time being away from Mummy she felt.
How do I feel about all this? I do want her to go to Nursery because I feel its important for her to know that she can have fun without mummy. And that even when mummy goes away, she does come back. And that being independent can be a good thing. Reasons why I decided to send her to Nursery in the first place.
But I don't want her to get all traumatized or anything.
Aside from prayers, I am also trying alternative therapy to calm her down. I tried giving her homeopathic remedy, first chamomilla and today pulsatilla. I even put two drops of Bach Rescue remedy. We'll see how it pans out today.
I know that things may have to get worse before it gets better. I just don't want to break her. I really hope she learns to have fun in school.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
In school
The Little One started going to the play group this week. I had planned to send her in November but decided to enroll her anyways last Wednesday. The class for her age group is scheduled for three times a week, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
I've been debating with myself with regards to sending her school for the longest time. This is my second attempt. Some of my neighbours do not feel the need for sending them to school this young, saying that their children are too young to learn anything.
Personally, I do not feel teaching the Little One is a problem for me. At 20 months she enjoys books very much. We read to her as often as we can and as often as she wants to. Well I have been reading to her since she was a month old and she's quite used to that. She understands the concept of counting, her favourite numbers are 3 and 9. And she understand my instructions to her perfectly.
So I chose to send her to school to be socialize. I do recognize that she is very dependent on my company. Some might even consider her clingy. Well, I did practice attachment parenting thus it is no wonder that she is very attached. Furthermore she is still breastfed, something which is a surprise to many people.
I felt that she needed to experience some fun without me. Her nanny goes take her out to the playpark in the afternoons, but I guess she still gets 1 on 1 attention then.
By sending to school I wanted her to learn some independence and acquire the skill to interact with other children without being under my shadow.
Did it work?
For the three days in school, I had to accompany her in class for the first and the third day. It felt like we took 1 step forward and 2 steps backwards. I understand that being the first and only child The Little One may take some time to adjust and get used to it. She was crying non stop the two days I was called back by the teacher to school.
I understand that its early days but at the same time, at the back of my mind I wondered if more could be done to make her experience better. I felt that there some things lacking in the school. It is rather new afterall and it is only the first day of school but with a registration fee of 500 bucks and the cost of 60 bucks a day am I wrong to expect something better?
Perhaps what makes me more critical is my background in education and my determination in educating myself in the different approaches towards early childhood education.
The school owner jokingly told The Little One that if she insist that I come with her everyday then perhaps the school would have to hire me. Frankly, I know I would be capable in handling the children. I have more than enough resources. (Note to self; I have to thank Atenah for some of her pointers.) But for me the whole idea of sending her to school is so that we can spend some time apart. So she could learn that its possible for her to do fun things without her mummy. And that I can finally have some time to myself. To sew perhaps. Or even to start my private teaching again.
In just three days I have seen some changes in her behavior. She has been more talkative. From what I have seen she is a very observant child. She would watch what other children are doing and would slowly imitate them. She can now do a fake-cry She can now climb the steps of the slide and lean forward down the slide all by herself.
That little brain of hers is like a sponge taking in everything.
I do hope that her school would improve. I hope the teachers would come up with novel ways to stimulate the children, failing which I would have to do it myself.
Ramadhan starts next week, we'll have to see how things turn out then.
I've been debating with myself with regards to sending her school for the longest time. This is my second attempt. Some of my neighbours do not feel the need for sending them to school this young, saying that their children are too young to learn anything.
Personally, I do not feel teaching the Little One is a problem for me. At 20 months she enjoys books very much. We read to her as often as we can and as often as she wants to. Well I have been reading to her since she was a month old and she's quite used to that. She understands the concept of counting, her favourite numbers are 3 and 9. And she understand my instructions to her perfectly.
So I chose to send her to school to be socialize. I do recognize that she is very dependent on my company. Some might even consider her clingy. Well, I did practice attachment parenting thus it is no wonder that she is very attached. Furthermore she is still breastfed, something which is a surprise to many people.
I felt that she needed to experience some fun without me. Her nanny goes take her out to the playpark in the afternoons, but I guess she still gets 1 on 1 attention then.
By sending to school I wanted her to learn some independence and acquire the skill to interact with other children without being under my shadow.
Did it work?
For the three days in school, I had to accompany her in class for the first and the third day. It felt like we took 1 step forward and 2 steps backwards. I understand that being the first and only child The Little One may take some time to adjust and get used to it. She was crying non stop the two days I was called back by the teacher to school.
I understand that its early days but at the same time, at the back of my mind I wondered if more could be done to make her experience better. I felt that there some things lacking in the school. It is rather new afterall and it is only the first day of school but with a registration fee of 500 bucks and the cost of 60 bucks a day am I wrong to expect something better?
Perhaps what makes me more critical is my background in education and my determination in educating myself in the different approaches towards early childhood education.
The school owner jokingly told The Little One that if she insist that I come with her everyday then perhaps the school would have to hire me. Frankly, I know I would be capable in handling the children. I have more than enough resources. (Note to self; I have to thank Atenah for some of her pointers.) But for me the whole idea of sending her to school is so that we can spend some time apart. So she could learn that its possible for her to do fun things without her mummy. And that I can finally have some time to myself. To sew perhaps. Or even to start my private teaching again.
In just three days I have seen some changes in her behavior. She has been more talkative. From what I have seen she is a very observant child. She would watch what other children are doing and would slowly imitate them. She can now do a fake-cry She can now climb the steps of the slide and lean forward down the slide all by herself.
That little brain of hers is like a sponge taking in everything.
I do hope that her school would improve. I hope the teachers would come up with novel ways to stimulate the children, failing which I would have to do it myself.
Ramadhan starts next week, we'll have to see how things turn out then.
Saturday, September 08, 2007
Somedays
Somedays I ask myself why we are still here.
Then I ask myself why I didn't pack my bags and go off as soon as we had that chance.
On good days, we thought can stay here for a long long time.
On bad days, I yearn to move on.
I just have to remember to visualize that house we're going to build.
Then I ask myself why I didn't pack my bags and go off as soon as we had that chance.
On good days, we thought can stay here for a long long time.
On bad days, I yearn to move on.
I just have to remember to visualize that house we're going to build.
Saturday, September 01, 2007
The Persian Queen
I guess I was dreading it so much that I took my time to bid her farewell. I didn't know that it would have affected me so, but it did. At the back of my mind, I knew that it was inevitable, that the day would come. Living this life, homes and friendships could be transient. People come and go in my life.
She was one of the first few people I got to know in the compound. The hermit and shy side of me didn't enjoy making new friends. I heard her telling another lady on the bus about her trip to Austri@ and the new sandals she got from there. I listened to her conversation and stayed silent. I didn't want to appear forward or nosy.
I don't exactly remember how or when but we began to hang out. She was very friendly, with a big heart. Perhaps she took pity on me, perhaps she enjoyed my company, I don't know. But she included me during her lunch meets and her walks. She often invited me to hang out with her in the evenings.
When I was in my dark moods and needed to stay isolated, she understood and respected that. When I was ready to come out, I was welcomed with open arms.
She was always the light of the party. There is a certain magnetism about her. Both men and women, even children flocked to her. She was kind, gracious and full of energy. I am always entertained by her stories. Stories about her childhood, about her grandma and about the different people she met or hung out with.
Her fearlessness inspired me. I remembered the day she desperately needed a puff. She stood outside the bus while a car filled with boys teased her, drove round and round the bus and calling her something. But she casually ignored them, not batting an eyelid, took her last drag and moved on. Undisturbed.
She could stand on her ground and yet accommodate those around her. A skill which not many could have.
Her diplomacy is unsurpassed. She tolerated those who continually harassed her.
As a friend she was always willing to help. With friends you meet on the road, you can never tell. Some just want to use you, and take advantage of you. But not her. She was one of those people who showed genuine generosity and consideration.
I often admire just how easily she hung out with all sorts of people of different ages, gender and background. Perhaps it is her gift.
To Negin, I wish you the best of luck! I know you will have loads of friends around you in no time at all because its just you. Know that you are loved and deeply missed.
She was one of the first few people I got to know in the compound. The hermit and shy side of me didn't enjoy making new friends. I heard her telling another lady on the bus about her trip to Austri@ and the new sandals she got from there. I listened to her conversation and stayed silent. I didn't want to appear forward or nosy.
I don't exactly remember how or when but we began to hang out. She was very friendly, with a big heart. Perhaps she took pity on me, perhaps she enjoyed my company, I don't know. But she included me during her lunch meets and her walks. She often invited me to hang out with her in the evenings.
When I was in my dark moods and needed to stay isolated, she understood and respected that. When I was ready to come out, I was welcomed with open arms.
She was always the light of the party. There is a certain magnetism about her. Both men and women, even children flocked to her. She was kind, gracious and full of energy. I am always entertained by her stories. Stories about her childhood, about her grandma and about the different people she met or hung out with.
Her fearlessness inspired me. I remembered the day she desperately needed a puff. She stood outside the bus while a car filled with boys teased her, drove round and round the bus and calling her something. But she casually ignored them, not batting an eyelid, took her last drag and moved on. Undisturbed.
She could stand on her ground and yet accommodate those around her. A skill which not many could have.
Her diplomacy is unsurpassed. She tolerated those who continually harassed her.
As a friend she was always willing to help. With friends you meet on the road, you can never tell. Some just want to use you, and take advantage of you. But not her. She was one of those people who showed genuine generosity and consideration.
I often admire just how easily she hung out with all sorts of people of different ages, gender and background. Perhaps it is her gift.
To Negin, I wish you the best of luck! I know you will have loads of friends around you in no time at all because its just you. Know that you are loved and deeply missed.
Monday, August 06, 2007
Can I give up dairy products?
I have to confess that I am a big consumer of dairy products. As a student I used to buy the gallon size skim milk and drank it like I would water. Back home milk wasn't as delicious but I would still pay the premium for fresh milk.
And I haven't started telling you about Gold Top milk from the guernsey ad jersey cow! Boy their milk is just oh so creamy and I'm salivating as I'm writing this. And just half an hour ago I had strawberries with double cream. I love that stuff.
And cheese. What would life be like without cheese? No Muller?
So why this crazy talk about giving up dairy products? Well two sources I've heard so far are suggesting that I should give up milk products, one from a homeopathy standpoint and the other, from Skinny bitch. (Then again they also recommend going vegan. Yucks!)
Does this mean I will never be skinny?
And I haven't started telling you about Gold Top milk from the guernsey ad jersey cow! Boy their milk is just oh so creamy and I'm salivating as I'm writing this. And just half an hour ago I had strawberries with double cream. I love that stuff.
And cheese. What would life be like without cheese? No Muller?
So why this crazy talk about giving up dairy products? Well two sources I've heard so far are suggesting that I should give up milk products, one from a homeopathy standpoint and the other, from Skinny bitch. (Then again they also recommend going vegan. Yucks!)
Does this mean I will never be skinny?
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
My 18 month comprehends what goes around her
The Little One has been suffering from a high fever and on the fourth day we brought her to the Doctor. After a brief physical he prescribed an antibiotic shot and asked us to come back the following day for a checkup.
SO I brought her back to the hospital the following day and she OK at the waiting area. Once the nurse called out her name and ushered us to the weighing area The Little One started crying. I guess she remembered distinctly the nurse who administered her the shot the day before. I tried to calm her down and managed to do so in the room 4. But once the nurse ushered us to room 2, where she was examined the day prior she started bawling her eyes out and there was no way of consoling her!
As soon as the doctor entered the room she started to point to the door going, "There! There!" Obviously telling me that she wanted out!
So I told her, "AM you have to stop crying. We will leave this room after I finish the conversation with the doctor. I need to talk to the doctor and we will leave as soon as we finish." With that she calmed down a little bit.
So the doctor and I discussed a little bit. Since her fever did not return there was no need for a second injection. The Little One who was sobbing quietly suddenly got a little louder when she heard the word "INJECTION." I had to laugh there and then. I had to explain to the nurse and doctor that she understood "Injection."
So the Doctor obliged by saying, "OK NO injection today."
And the Little One stopped crying. She could even muster "Bye!" to the nurses on the way out!
I really have to be careful what I say and do because she understand everything perfectly and I attribute all this entirely to attachment parenting!
Update:
Unfortunately I found rashes on the front and back of her torso in the afternoon. There was none behind her ears. I guess we may have to pay the Doctor a visit again tomorrow. :(
SO I brought her back to the hospital the following day and she OK at the waiting area. Once the nurse called out her name and ushered us to the weighing area The Little One started crying. I guess she remembered distinctly the nurse who administered her the shot the day before. I tried to calm her down and managed to do so in the room 4. But once the nurse ushered us to room 2, where she was examined the day prior she started bawling her eyes out and there was no way of consoling her!
As soon as the doctor entered the room she started to point to the door going, "There! There!" Obviously telling me that she wanted out!
So I told her, "AM you have to stop crying. We will leave this room after I finish the conversation with the doctor. I need to talk to the doctor and we will leave as soon as we finish." With that she calmed down a little bit.
So the doctor and I discussed a little bit. Since her fever did not return there was no need for a second injection. The Little One who was sobbing quietly suddenly got a little louder when she heard the word "INJECTION." I had to laugh there and then. I had to explain to the nurse and doctor that she understood "Injection."
So the Doctor obliged by saying, "OK NO injection today."
And the Little One stopped crying. She could even muster "Bye!" to the nurses on the way out!
I really have to be careful what I say and do because she understand everything perfectly and I attribute all this entirely to attachment parenting!
Update:
Unfortunately I found rashes on the front and back of her torso in the afternoon. There was none behind her ears. I guess we may have to pay the Doctor a visit again tomorrow. :(
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Books, books, glorious books
It's been a long while since I posted anything. Even the previous post was done in such a hurry. I stumbled upon LibraryThing while surfing the other day and I was intrigued. I liked it so much that I decided to feature it on my blog. And then I was addicted. I slept at 2 am 2 days in a row trying to catalog my books. First I started with the books I have here, then the books I owned and liked a lot (thought I may not remember where they are now.)
Problem with moving so much is that I have different things everywhere. And most of all I miss my books. I've been scratching my head to remember the tittle and author of a book I read back in the UK 5 years ago about this guy who arrived in the UK as an asylum seeker and his experiences. I remembered that I looked up the author and he was a lecturer of one of the Universities. I almost wanted to write to him to tell him how much I enjoyed his book but was too shy. The first chapter of the book was about the main character not speaking.
OK I have a screaming child who detest me spending time at the pc.
Problem with moving so much is that I have different things everywhere. And most of all I miss my books. I've been scratching my head to remember the tittle and author of a book I read back in the UK 5 years ago about this guy who arrived in the UK as an asylum seeker and his experiences. I remembered that I looked up the author and he was a lecturer of one of the Universities. I almost wanted to write to him to tell him how much I enjoyed his book but was too shy. The first chapter of the book was about the main character not speaking.
OK I have a screaming child who detest me spending time at the pc.
Monday, July 02, 2007
Meme for Charity
Ghazali tagged me, a meme that began with Idham
The rules are as follows:
If you are tagged, you need to write an entry related to the meme. At the end of your entry you just need to tag as many person as you like. You will then leave a comment in their blog to let them know they have been tagged. And to include this message, "By doing this meme you are contributing rm127 to the Darul Izzah Orphanage".
Then please copy and paste this rule somewhere in your entry.
The meme is about completing at least seventeen out of the following twenty seven sentences........ *These can be copied and pasted to your entry*
1. A person is only as good as his/her word.
2. Friendship is always about being able to understand and respect one another .
3. To love is to share the good times and the bad times.
4. Money makes me live comfortably.
5. I miss being able to travel more.
6. My way of saying I care is by contributing what I can.
7. I try to spread love and happiness by caring.
8. Pick the flowers when they are in full bloom.
9. To love someone is to let them grow.
10. Beauty is in the heart.
11. When I was thirteen, what I remember the most was the nerdy glasses I wore and the new friends I had to make at my new school.
12. When I was twenty one, I remember arriving in Canada alone, not knowing the place or anyone and the new world I saw with my own eyes.
13. I am most happy when I am travelling.
14. Nothing makes me happier than hearing my child's laugh and my beloved saying "I love you." (But something sparkly from a blue box with white ribbon makes me happy too.)
15. If I can change one thing, I will change airport security.
16. If smiles were gold then I'd be a goldsmith.
17. Wouldn't it be nice if we could all live together in peace.
18. If you want to achieve anything then you have to work hard and send good thoughts.
19. Money is not everything but it helps you to live comfortably.
20. The most touching moments I have experienced is when my child says I Love you to me and comes to me and kiss me..
21. I smile when I am happy.
22. When I am happy, I am on top of the world.
23. If only I don't have to be responsible, then I can go parapenting.
24. The best thing I did yesterday was spend quality time with my family.
25. If I ever write a book, I will give it this title,"Traveller's Tales"
26. One thing I must do before I die is to climb the wall of China.
27. Doing this meme, I feel like I need to pee! Help I've been trying to finish this before Am wakes up!
The Bloggers I am tagging are:
1) Elisa Taufik
2)Leen-Ashburn
3)MedameRosse
The rules are as follows:
If you are tagged, you need to write an entry related to the meme. At the end of your entry you just need to tag as many person as you like. You will then leave a comment in their blog to let them know they have been tagged. And to include this message, "By doing this meme you are contributing rm127 to the Darul Izzah Orphanage".
Then please copy and paste this rule somewhere in your entry.
The meme is about completing at least seventeen out of the following twenty seven sentences........ *These can be copied and pasted to your entry*
1. A person is only as good as his/her word.
2. Friendship is always about being able to understand and respect one another .
3. To love is to share the good times and the bad times.
4. Money makes me live comfortably.
5. I miss being able to travel more.
6. My way of saying I care is by contributing what I can.
7. I try to spread love and happiness by caring.
8. Pick the flowers when they are in full bloom.
9. To love someone is to let them grow.
10. Beauty is in the heart.
11. When I was thirteen, what I remember the most was the nerdy glasses I wore and the new friends I had to make at my new school.
12. When I was twenty one, I remember arriving in Canada alone, not knowing the place or anyone and the new world I saw with my own eyes.
13. I am most happy when I am travelling.
14. Nothing makes me happier than hearing my child's laugh and my beloved saying "I love you." (But something sparkly from a blue box with white ribbon makes me happy too.)
15. If I can change one thing, I will change airport security.
16. If smiles were gold then I'd be a goldsmith.
17. Wouldn't it be nice if we could all live together in peace.
18. If you want to achieve anything then you have to work hard and send good thoughts.
19. Money is not everything but it helps you to live comfortably.
20. The most touching moments I have experienced is when my child says I Love you to me and comes to me and kiss me..
21. I smile when I am happy.
22. When I am happy, I am on top of the world.
23. If only I don't have to be responsible, then I can go parapenting.
24. The best thing I did yesterday was spend quality time with my family.
25. If I ever write a book, I will give it this title,"Traveller's Tales"
26. One thing I must do before I die is to climb the wall of China.
27. Doing this meme, I feel like I need to pee! Help I've been trying to finish this before Am wakes up!
The Bloggers I am tagging are:
1) Elisa Taufik
2)Leen-Ashburn
3)MedameRosse
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
The Secret
I've been trying to read about The Secret lately. Trying is the operative word, 10 mins here and there while I'm on the throne or the little time I have in the afternoons when she is taking her nap.
From the little I read, somehow the books makes good sense to me. I did discuss with my beloved about the bits I read and he pointed out that perhaps the contents are really nothing new. That perhaps its no different from the fundamentals of I/s/l/am with "niat" or intent and "dua" or prayer. I didn't disagree with him.
But I do find the book refreshing in terms of reminding me of some things that I perhaps have overlooked or taken for granted.
Personally I sometimes let my own negative thoughts take over me. And worst still some days those negative thoughts snowball clouding my week and even my month. So The Secret helped me to remind myself to keep the positive thoughts.
Just the past week I caught myself when my mind was wandering into negative thoughts again.
Right now I am focusing on how I want the future to be. :)
Sunday, June 17, 2007
I am truly grateful
I am truly grateful to The Creator for the life he has given me.
I am grateful that I have a husband who loves me and appreciates me for who I am.
For the past couple of years he has tolerated me not wearing any make up, and just one afternoon he reminded me thats perhaps a touch of lipstick would brighten my face.
What more can I ask than a man who is not afraid to tell me the truth?
Who is willing to share his days with me, even the hours when I am not with him.
Who didn't complain or grumble when I told him I could not cook so please pick up something on the way home.
Who showed so much appreciation with the most meagre and simple meals I cooked.
I am grateful that I have you.
I am grateful that I have a daughter who continues to surprise me everyday.
Who loves me unconditionally and constantly remind me that what I do today, will affect her life tomorrow.
Her sharpness often surprise me. When she utters words that perhaps just the two of us understand.
She reminds me that even when I feel useless and wasting my life away, that something good is coming.
I am biased, I know but I am grateful that she is the smartest, cutest, prettiest, cleverest and happiest child I know.
She brings a different purpose to life. Makes me see the world very differently.
I am grateful that I have her.
I am grateful to the life I lead. I consider it normal, some considered it charmed while others considered it oppressed.
I may not be an important person at an office or a country but I know, I am appreciated by my beloved and my daughter.
For that I am truly grateful.
What are you grateful for today?
I am grateful that I have a husband who loves me and appreciates me for who I am.
For the past couple of years he has tolerated me not wearing any make up, and just one afternoon he reminded me thats perhaps a touch of lipstick would brighten my face.
What more can I ask than a man who is not afraid to tell me the truth?
Who is willing to share his days with me, even the hours when I am not with him.
Who didn't complain or grumble when I told him I could not cook so please pick up something on the way home.
Who showed so much appreciation with the most meagre and simple meals I cooked.
I am grateful that I have you.
I am grateful that I have a daughter who continues to surprise me everyday.
Who loves me unconditionally and constantly remind me that what I do today, will affect her life tomorrow.
Her sharpness often surprise me. When she utters words that perhaps just the two of us understand.
She reminds me that even when I feel useless and wasting my life away, that something good is coming.
I am biased, I know but I am grateful that she is the smartest, cutest, prettiest, cleverest and happiest child I know.
She brings a different purpose to life. Makes me see the world very differently.
I am grateful that I have her.
I am grateful to the life I lead. I consider it normal, some considered it charmed while others considered it oppressed.
I may not be an important person at an office or a country but I know, I am appreciated by my beloved and my daughter.
For that I am truly grateful.
What are you grateful for today?
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Nasi Dagang , Star Wars Marathon and Urban Legend
Over the weekend the local cable station had a back-t0-back Star Wars marathon. I am not a fan. But my beloved and some of his friends were. He railroaded our friend with the largest TV to host a Star Wars martahon party at his house and we all went over to watch the Star Wars movie.
When I said "we" I meant the men, who during the duration of the 7 hours we were at that house. sat with eyes glued to the TV except breaks for solat, short walks to the buffet table and toilet breaks. The other "we," namely the womenfolk sat at the dinning table, ate and exchanged stories and gossip.
I managed to find a lady who makes delicious Nasi Dagang here and was overjoyed when I found out that she was willing to cook it for me. Yahooo! I ordered two sets, one to bring to the party and another set for me to keep at home which I had for dinner the following day.
It was still delicious the following day! I resteamed the rice and it was fabulous!
One of the current hot topics is about the possible existence of a certain "album" containing pictures of women who are interested in looking for a spouse. That bit wasn't that interesting. Rumour has it that THE album was shown and seen by certain MBAs. No not those with the Masters in Business, rather the Married but Available variety of men.
Rumour has it, some women have banned their husbands from going to the house where THE ALBUM is kept.
I for one, am tempted to approach the owner of the album myself, to ask to view it. Not that I am interested in looking for a wife, no. But rather to see if the album really exist or if it is merely an urban legend.
Another rumour has been confirmed as a fact. An MBA did marry wife no 2 here. Wife no 1 is back in Malaysia apparently oblivious to the new development in her husband. Everyone else remarked how wife no 1 was fair and pretty and didn't understand why wife no 2 was taken on board.
The man in question is one of those who was very quiet and looked very pious. Often seen with a kopiah on his head. Actually I don't think I have seen him sans his kopiah. Perhaps the white skullcaps cover the horns very well?
Oh well.
I have started asking around who would be interested in inheriting the steamer I bought in Pekan Rabu or the mortar and pestle (or is it pestle and mortar) I had bought in Saco. I never did use it except when MIL came to visit.
I still don't know if we are staying or moving. I have to start packing soon. I hate packing! But the last thing I want to happen is to find out that we are really moving and I havent packed a thing! I know I have way too much stuff, some I inherited from friends who left so its time I passed it on.
We ended the nite with making arrangements to meet again.
Good friends and good food makes a good insulation when living here. I think one of the things I would really miss most if we move is their company. If we don't move we'll continue to make plans for winter hopefully.
PS Thank you everyone for your comments and opinions. At the moment the status of my move is still "pending."
When I said "we" I meant the men, who during the duration of the 7 hours we were at that house. sat with eyes glued to the TV except breaks for solat, short walks to the buffet table and toilet breaks. The other "we," namely the womenfolk sat at the dinning table, ate and exchanged stories and gossip.
I managed to find a lady who makes delicious Nasi Dagang here and was overjoyed when I found out that she was willing to cook it for me. Yahooo! I ordered two sets, one to bring to the party and another set for me to keep at home which I had for dinner the following day.
It was still delicious the following day! I resteamed the rice and it was fabulous!
One of the current hot topics is about the possible existence of a certain "album" containing pictures of women who are interested in looking for a spouse. That bit wasn't that interesting. Rumour has it that THE album was shown and seen by certain MBAs. No not those with the Masters in Business, rather the Married but Available variety of men.
Rumour has it, some women have banned their husbands from going to the house where THE ALBUM is kept.
I for one, am tempted to approach the owner of the album myself, to ask to view it. Not that I am interested in looking for a wife, no. But rather to see if the album really exist or if it is merely an urban legend.
Another rumour has been confirmed as a fact. An MBA did marry wife no 2 here. Wife no 1 is back in Malaysia apparently oblivious to the new development in her husband. Everyone else remarked how wife no 1 was fair and pretty and didn't understand why wife no 2 was taken on board.
The man in question is one of those who was very quiet and looked very pious. Often seen with a kopiah on his head. Actually I don't think I have seen him sans his kopiah. Perhaps the white skullcaps cover the horns very well?
Oh well.
I have started asking around who would be interested in inheriting the steamer I bought in Pekan Rabu or the mortar and pestle (or is it pestle and mortar) I had bought in Saco. I never did use it except when MIL came to visit.
I still don't know if we are staying or moving. I have to start packing soon. I hate packing! But the last thing I want to happen is to find out that we are really moving and I havent packed a thing! I know I have way too much stuff, some I inherited from friends who left so its time I passed it on.
We ended the nite with making arrangements to meet again.
Good friends and good food makes a good insulation when living here. I think one of the things I would really miss most if we move is their company. If we don't move we'll continue to make plans for winter hopefully.
PS Thank you everyone for your comments and opinions. At the moment the status of my move is still "pending."
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Am I ready to return?
For some, their hearts are always set to their homeland. Everyday they think about what they miss back home in Malaysia. And every holiday they look forward to returning to Malaysia. Even though their bodies are here, their spirits and their minds are still back in Malaysia.
Unfortunately I am one of those people who don't really fancy the idea of going back. Not at the moment anyways. Yes I do miss some of the family. (Although I have to confess that I don't mind being out of the loop from the family gossips and the latest misunderstanding etc.) And yes I do miss the food.
I can't believe I am saying this myself but I am beginning to like it here. More accurately, I like the life we lead here. I don't have to worry about going to weddings and kenduris. Most of my time is our own, we're not tied down to taking to attend family functions etc. I guess its not just the life here but generally life abroad.
I like the fact that we could travel and of course it helps that we have a bigger disposable income here. For me there is a balance between the amount we could spend and the amount we could save.
Luckily for me my dearest share my passion for travel and seeing and trying new things. I would be so devastated if all he ever want to do is return to Malaysia for holidays. We do like to go to different places ever so often.
So he puts forward to me the possibility of returning back to The Homeland and suddenly I get a little bit sweaty. For me I had always envisioned that we would return when its time to retire. Or at least we would return after we have finished paying off all our debts, have a well cushioned retirement plan.
But of course things change a little bit since we have The Little One. Suddenly we realize the value of living near The Family so both parties could get to know each other better. Also it would be more beneficial for The Little One to know more about traditions and her cultural background. Something which I am not very big on. I know very little about cultural believes and in fact sometimes believe very little in them. (Like pantang larang lepas bersalin etc. I was at the supermarket 5 days after delivering the baby.) But I do realize its important for The Little One to see some of that for herself because its part of her cultural identity and it will be up to her in the future to decide if she would like to keep them or not.
And I guess the other thing is, for me, if or when we return, its means that we are settling down. And settling down is something that I am uncertain if I am ready for. We've been travelling for the last 9 years and I like the adventure of living abroad.
I suppose what it is, is more change. Change in lifestyle. Change in income. Change in responsibilities. Naturally I am somewhat apprehensive to this sort change.
I already lost my mum while we were on the road. Perhaps going back now will be good so The Little One could spend more time with her remaining grandparents, uncles and aunties.
Funnily enough I would have to relearn the Malaysian way of doing things if we go back. Perhaps it is time?
Unfortunately I am one of those people who don't really fancy the idea of going back. Not at the moment anyways. Yes I do miss some of the family. (Although I have to confess that I don't mind being out of the loop from the family gossips and the latest misunderstanding etc.) And yes I do miss the food.
I can't believe I am saying this myself but I am beginning to like it here. More accurately, I like the life we lead here. I don't have to worry about going to weddings and kenduris. Most of my time is our own, we're not tied down to taking to attend family functions etc. I guess its not just the life here but generally life abroad.
I like the fact that we could travel and of course it helps that we have a bigger disposable income here. For me there is a balance between the amount we could spend and the amount we could save.
Luckily for me my dearest share my passion for travel and seeing and trying new things. I would be so devastated if all he ever want to do is return to Malaysia for holidays. We do like to go to different places ever so often.
So he puts forward to me the possibility of returning back to The Homeland and suddenly I get a little bit sweaty. For me I had always envisioned that we would return when its time to retire. Or at least we would return after we have finished paying off all our debts, have a well cushioned retirement plan.
But of course things change a little bit since we have The Little One. Suddenly we realize the value of living near The Family so both parties could get to know each other better. Also it would be more beneficial for The Little One to know more about traditions and her cultural background. Something which I am not very big on. I know very little about cultural believes and in fact sometimes believe very little in them. (Like pantang larang lepas bersalin etc. I was at the supermarket 5 days after delivering the baby.) But I do realize its important for The Little One to see some of that for herself because its part of her cultural identity and it will be up to her in the future to decide if she would like to keep them or not.
And I guess the other thing is, for me, if or when we return, its means that we are settling down. And settling down is something that I am uncertain if I am ready for. We've been travelling for the last 9 years and I like the adventure of living abroad.
I suppose what it is, is more change. Change in lifestyle. Change in income. Change in responsibilities. Naturally I am somewhat apprehensive to this sort change.
I already lost my mum while we were on the road. Perhaps going back now will be good so The Little One could spend more time with her remaining grandparents, uncles and aunties.
Funnily enough I would have to relearn the Malaysian way of doing things if we go back. Perhaps it is time?
Sunday, April 29, 2007
In search of a better life II
A man often sometimes chooses to come here for a job stint sans family because sometimes:
1)his wife does not want to uproot herself and live in a foreign land
2)his children are going to good schools and he refuses to "disrupt" their education
3)his job does not allow for a family visa, the company wants to save some money
4) . . .
Somehow this story really depresses me. A guy had been working here for awhile, alone without his fmaily. He finally completed his contract and went home to spend time with his family.
Five days after he returned home, his five year old son passed away.
Of course I believe in predestination and destiny.
But I often wonder, how worthwhile is it for a family to be split apart for the sake of economy?
I guess for the likes of us who have enough to eat everyday, it is an issue to be pondered and debated upon.
But for those who didn't have the luxury of choice, who did it out of neccessity, what would you do?
1)his wife does not want to uproot herself and live in a foreign land
2)his children are going to good schools and he refuses to "disrupt" their education
3)his job does not allow for a family visa, the company wants to save some money
4) . . .
Somehow this story really depresses me. A guy had been working here for awhile, alone without his fmaily. He finally completed his contract and went home to spend time with his family.
Five days after he returned home, his five year old son passed away.
Of course I believe in predestination and destiny.
But I often wonder, how worthwhile is it for a family to be split apart for the sake of economy?
I guess for the likes of us who have enough to eat everyday, it is an issue to be pondered and debated upon.
But for those who didn't have the luxury of choice, who did it out of neccessity, what would you do?
In search of a better life I
Our waiter asked us how old The Little One was.
"Fifteen months," we told him.
How quickly time flies. She was a month old when we first brought her with us to the restaurant.
We asked him if he had any children.
"A girl," he told us. "She's fourteen now. She lives all by herself in the Ph/ll/p/nes."
All by herself at fourteen?
"Yes her mum is working here with me as a nurse. We thought that by working here for a few years we could provide her a better future. "
"With the salaries we earn here, we could afford to send her a much better school."
Obviously the sacrifice is that their teenage daughter is growing up without her parents.
Not all expats get a cushiony package. But almost all come with hope to get a better life for their loved ones, one way or other.
"Fifteen months," we told him.
How quickly time flies. She was a month old when we first brought her with us to the restaurant.
We asked him if he had any children.
"A girl," he told us. "She's fourteen now. She lives all by herself in the Ph/ll/p/nes."
All by herself at fourteen?
"Yes her mum is working here with me as a nurse. We thought that by working here for a few years we could provide her a better future. "
"With the salaries we earn here, we could afford to send her a much better school."
Obviously the sacrifice is that their teenage daughter is growing up without her parents.
Not all expats get a cushiony package. But almost all come with hope to get a better life for their loved ones, one way or other.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Decisions, decisions, decisions
Uncertainty is one word I could use to describe my current situation. Will we stay or do we move on?
If we do move on where will we be going? There was hope that it was to be Ireland. Then there was promise of Tehran. And then there's the possibility of Bahrain. Or back to the UK. Or home to KL/Singapore. Or we could stay here.
If push comes to shove, if we do move, I will. If we have to move every few months, I will.
For the longest time, I had everything I had with me in 2 suitcases. Then we had 2 mugs, 2 plates, 2 sets of cutlery and a saucepan that travelled with me. And then I thought, I was tired of living that way. I thought, finally, I wanted to live in a place that really felt like home. We got a proper dinnerware, real cutlery, that sort of thing.
Now that I had gotten some furniture from Ikea, got the carpenter to repair the shoe cupboard and hang up our family portrait, there is a possibility of moving again.
The story of my life really. We move whenever I form roots. So much so sometimes I do refrain from making friends.
All I ask is that Allah put us where ever he thinks is good for us. A place where we can grow and be happy.
Pardon me if this space will be unattended for awhile. I'm trying to make some sort of order in my world of uncertainty.
But one thing I am certain, change is inevitable and it will be good for me.
If we do move on where will we be going? There was hope that it was to be Ireland. Then there was promise of Tehran. And then there's the possibility of Bahrain. Or back to the UK. Or home to KL/Singapore. Or we could stay here.
If push comes to shove, if we do move, I will. If we have to move every few months, I will.
For the longest time, I had everything I had with me in 2 suitcases. Then we had 2 mugs, 2 plates, 2 sets of cutlery and a saucepan that travelled with me. And then I thought, I was tired of living that way. I thought, finally, I wanted to live in a place that really felt like home. We got a proper dinnerware, real cutlery, that sort of thing.
Now that I had gotten some furniture from Ikea, got the carpenter to repair the shoe cupboard and hang up our family portrait, there is a possibility of moving again.
The story of my life really. We move whenever I form roots. So much so sometimes I do refrain from making friends.
All I ask is that Allah put us where ever he thinks is good for us. A place where we can grow and be happy.
Pardon me if this space will be unattended for awhile. I'm trying to make some sort of order in my world of uncertainty.
But one thing I am certain, change is inevitable and it will be good for me.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
A new venture
If you asked me 10 years ago, what I would be doing in 10 years time, perhaps I would have said "Teacher" but I wouldn't have thought that I'd be a quilting teacher.
After many requests for me to have quilting class, I finally became brave enough to take the plunge. I had five students whom I charged 50 bucks each. Actually I thought that perhaps charging them 50 bucks per class might be too expensive but somehow I'm finding that I am merely breaking even in terms of operating cost.
The maid costs 15 bucks per hour, for 5 hours thats 75 bucks. I bought some snacks etc costing 65 bucks. So I made a cool 140 bucks for 5 hours of teaching and conversation. As you can tell, I won't exactly become rich doing this.
More importantly the company was fabulous. We caught up with some gossip and updates. If anything I am happy to pass on the joy of learning a new skill to the ladies. I hope they feel the same about coming to my home to learn.
Perhaps one day I'd have my own quilt shop selling fabrics, notions and everything else. Not many people make real money from selling the quilts themselves, because they do require a lot of time and effort and when you're competing against mass produced ones, theirs would be a lot cheaper no doubt. Unless I become really famous and produce my own quilt books or people will pay me big money to come and do a demonstration.
But who knows what tomorrow will bring?
After many requests for me to have quilting class, I finally became brave enough to take the plunge. I had five students whom I charged 50 bucks each. Actually I thought that perhaps charging them 50 bucks per class might be too expensive but somehow I'm finding that I am merely breaking even in terms of operating cost.
The maid costs 15 bucks per hour, for 5 hours thats 75 bucks. I bought some snacks etc costing 65 bucks. So I made a cool 140 bucks for 5 hours of teaching and conversation. As you can tell, I won't exactly become rich doing this.
More importantly the company was fabulous. We caught up with some gossip and updates. If anything I am happy to pass on the joy of learning a new skill to the ladies. I hope they feel the same about coming to my home to learn.
Perhaps one day I'd have my own quilt shop selling fabrics, notions and everything else. Not many people make real money from selling the quilts themselves, because they do require a lot of time and effort and when you're competing against mass produced ones, theirs would be a lot cheaper no doubt. Unless I become really famous and produce my own quilt books or people will pay me big money to come and do a demonstration.
But who knows what tomorrow will bring?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)