2007年的最后一天

在2007年的最后一天里，你在做些什么？想些什么呢?

2007年的最后一天，如同往常一样。没有什么特别。但今日，我的心情与前几天的不一样。前一阵子的“怨气”已经随风而逝。没什么好怨的，没什么好气的。已经收拾好心情，准备在新的一年里冲刺。

老公原本想出去“走走”，可我不喜欢人挤人，结果他只好皱着眉头，随我回家。

待会儿，吃了晚餐后，我打算坐在沙发上，听着音乐，喝着绿茶，欣赏我家前面的“风景”。忙了一年，在最后的这一天，该是静下来的时候了......

"I am Legend"

Watched the movie " I am Legend" this afternoon.Left the cinema with a heavy heart.

Will Simth is a very good actor. Basically, it is a one-man show. He is able to portray the feelings of being the sole survivor very well-the feeling of loneliness,the hope of meeting other survivors etc. I shed a few tears when his dog -Sam died......

The reason why I left the cinema feeling down is because there is a possibility that such a plague might actually happen. Of course, the possibilty of human turning into vampires or monstors is low. However, millions of people might die. Think of the Ebola, Sars and bird flu. If these illnesses are to spread like wild fire, will the human race have a chance to "retaliate", to come up with a vaccine in a short time? Will it be like the Flu Epidemic that took place in 1918, where miliions died? ......
I could not help but wonder. Just the thought of it sends shivers down my spine. Human beings might actually be the ones that bring about the downfall of mankind. Moral of the story - Do not play GOD.

Excuse me, are you a local ?

My hubby related the following incident to me yesterday :

On his way home last night, he came across a group of China women at Little India MRT station. They seemed to have encountered some difficulties and were unable to seek help from the MRT staff as the MRT staff could not speak Mandarin. They approached my hubby and he acted as an interpreter and helped them solved the problem.

At the end of it, they thanked my hubby and asked him, " 你的华语说得很好，请问你是本地人吗？" ......

We both agreed that, though that was a simple question, but it speaks volume. The women were surprised that a Singaporean could speak fluent Mandarin. What does it show? I guess, even a fool would know the answer.

My Favorite Things

With 2008 round the corner, it is time to wrap things up. Decided to come up with a list of things/places that I personally like in 2007. (Distant drum beats......) And the "winners" are :

Most readable book - "Only a Mother Could Love Him" by Ben Polis ( non-fiction )
Favorite movie - Well, it has to be " Transformers". What else?
Favorite song - Too many. Unable to decide which one I love most.
Favorite Jap drama - Nodame Cantabile
Favorite cook - Who else but The Naked Chef, Jamie Oliver
Favorite Composer - Joe Hisaishi
Favorite OST - OST of Korean Drama, Tae Wang Sa Shin Gi 太王四神记
Favorite TV series - Brothers and Sisters
Favorite Restaurants - Sushi Tei( at Serangoon Gardens ), Ichiban Sushi
( Woodlands ), Gayatri ( Indian Restaurant along Race Course Road )
Country that I would love to stay in( other than Singapore ) - Its still Japan
Place that I would love to revisit - Melbourne ( met some wonderful people there)

My way 我自求我道

My friend, KiKi shared this song with me.

" My Way" was sang famous by Frank Sinatra in the 1960s, I think. Although this song is about how a dying man felt, I find it very meaningful.

Every now and then, I would feel restless and have an urge to break free. (Yes, I am in my 30s and sad to say,I still have the untamed spirit of a teenager at times.) This is especially so when my beliefs clashes with the social norms. When I was young, my mum ever told others that I was like a wild horse - try to conform me, I would struggle with my life. I was like that, and I still am like that. Guess, that is the reason why I could relate to this song, especially the last phrase.


My Way

And now, the end is near;
And so I face the final curtain.
My friend, Ill say it clear,
Ill state my case, of which I’m certain.

I’ve lived a life that’s full.
I’ve traveled each and every highway;
And more, much more than this,
I did it my way.

Regrets, I’ve had a few;
But then again, too few to mention.
I did what I had to do
And saw it through without exemption.

I planned each charted course;
Each careful step along the byway,
But more, much more than this,
I did it my way.

Yes, there were times, I’m sure you knew
When I bit off more than I could chew.
But through it all, when there was doubt,
I ate it up and spit it out.
I faced it all and I stood tall;
And did it my way.

I’ve loved, I’ve laughed and cried.
I’ve had my fill; my share of losing.
And now, as tears subside,
I find it all so amusing.

To think I did all that;
And may I say - not in a shy way,
No, oh no not me,
I did it my way.

For what is a man, what has he got?
If not himself, then he has naught.
To say the things he truly feels;
And not the words of one who kneels.
The record shows I took the blows -
And did it my way!

Poem

Hee hee... While cleaning my store room today, I found some diaries. Came across one peom which I wrote when I was in Sec one.

Let me be who I am

I have the right,
To choose my own beliefs,
Without having somebody,
Laugh at me.
just because I don't,
Believe in what you believe in,
I am not mad,
But using my rights.

“怨气冲天”

老公说我这一两天怪怪的。我同意。我一肚子的怨气没地方发泄。向他坦言后，却被他说我自寻烦恼！其实，他说得也对，我一定是最近吃饱了没事做，才会这样。太闲了！

怨气一：为什么物价一直涨涨涨？可怜了老百姓！
怨气二：为何有一些人的薪水那么高了，还要再加？
怨气三：新加坡人的taste到底出现了什么问题，造就了一个Ah Beng Ah Seng的“本土天王”?
怨气四：为什么一些人那么假？问题明明就在眼前，自己明明就是不喜欢，还要自欺欺人。
怨气五：我不介意“外来人才”，但我不喜欢那一些混口饭吃，又嫌“那口饭不好吃”的人。
怨气六：为何自己怨气那么重？ 为何放不下？以上的事又关我屁事！真是庸人自扰！！！

闲谈 ： 好老师

昨晚，我问先生：“怎样才算是一个好老师？”他愣了一会儿，接着对我说：“要有心。”

他解释说，一名教师当然得要有一定的知识，但那并不代表知识丰富、满肚子学问的人就是一名好老师。一位拥有博士学位的人并不一定是一个好老师。反观，一名只拥有A水准文凭的人，可能是学生心目中的好老师。一位好老师要有“爱心、恒心、耐心”。

我又问：“如果一个老师有爱心，有耐心，但课室管理方面是一团遭，那又怎么说呢？” 他回答道：“老师最基本的工作是教书。那人连书都不能好好教，还能谈得上是好老师吗？”......

EATEN ALIVE BY FISH!!!

I shared an interesting experience with my colleague, J today. We went to a place called " Kampong Fish Therapy" to be "eaten alive" by the fish!! (^o^) Don't Worry, we were not fed to sharks. We did not feed any food to the fish, we were the "fish food". For 30 mins, small little fish nibble off dead skin on our feet. Well, at first I giggle non-stop. It was extremely ticklish and it felt as if I have hundreds of needles pecking at my feet! 有触电的感觉! On the other hand, J was super "steady" lo. Very CALM...... Sigh. Made me feel so useless. Hee... Intend to bring hubby there next week. Would love to see his reaction.

"Worshipper" of the West 2

Visited my Chiropractor again today. As I was early for my appointment, I need to wait for a while. Other than moi, there were others waiting as well. One funny thing is that though all of them are asians, all spoke with an accent. Nothing wrong with Asians speaking with an accent except that they sounded fake!! If one listens carefully, it is easy to find some loopholes here and there.

爱心晚餐 2

Improvised steamboat - by putting solid fuel in a tiny metal plate wrapped with aluminium foil.

Salmon "steamboat" with vegetables and liang dou fu.

End of the "special dinner" - black black pot! Luckily I was not the one in charge of washing!

Being happy might not be good

Not too long ago, an article in the Straits Times caught my attention. The headlines stated that "Singaporean Children have a happy life here" . Well, that's good news, or is it?

Over the last few days, I have seen "happy" kids. A boy eating in the train; a boy placed his foot on the glass window in a bus; a girl who jumped up and down in the lift, making rude facial expression to strangers; a young girl shouting loudly at her maid, and the list goes on. Those children were HAPPY. They were free to do whatever they like. Their parents just sat or stood beside them, oblivious to everything the kids did.

From what I see, working parents try hard to please their children. If they have the means, parents will satisfy whatever material needs the children wants. Parenting has been "outsourced" to maids, tuition teachers and the school.

In the past, the Chinese have 二十四孝孩子，now in Singapore, we have 二十四孝父母!! Parents listen to the children. I ever suggested to a parent that her child did well, and it would be best to place the child in a "better" school. She told me that particular sch was too far and she was afraid that the journey might tire the child. In addition, the child might feel lonely without any friends in the same sch. From her tone (very 不爽), I have the impression that she could not be bothered with what I said, and hence dropped the matter. (After all, it was just a suggestion. Who ask me to be a KPO and call her le? )

The point is making children feel happy might not be the best for them. For example, if the child refuse to go to sch, does that mean that in order to make him happy, parents let him stay at home instead?

I was not always happy with my parents decisions when I was young. I felt angry at them at times. However, I am grateful that they did not follow my wishes and did what was best for me. Making me unhappy once in a while is worth it, if in the long run, I benefit from it.


http://www.straitstimes.com/Latest+News/Singapore/STIStory_181781.html

放手，才是真正的爱

昨晚陪两老去吃“煮炒”。好久没三人同行了。弟弟和老公都得加班，所以不能去。

谈着谈着，谈到小弟结婚以后该住那儿。妈妈提议要他搬出去住，过独立的二人世界。爸爸一听到妈妈这么一说，好生气，说什么既然孩子不要搬，何必逼他呢？

他俩都疼爱小弟，只是方式不一样。妈妈要他“展翅高飞”，而老爸却不舍得小弟离开他。

相比之下，妈妈的爱比爸爸的更伟大。我深信如果可以的话，她希望我们永远都留在他们身边，就像小时候一样，但她知道这是不可能的。妈妈曾经说过她虽不舍得大弟出国留学，但却不会阻止他。孩子长大了，本来就应该离开父母的身边，到外头开拓自己的世界。这是自然的规律。

妈妈没紧“抓”着我们不放。她放开手，让我们自由“飞翔”，寻找自己的天地。她这一种爱，才是真正伟大的母爱。

Rhapsody in Blue By George Gershwin

Classical music + Jazz = Rhapsody in Blue = Priceless \(^0^)/

Enjoy.

The Golden Compass

Caught the sneak preview of the movie "Golden Compass" on Wed with my hubby. We both agreed that it did not match our expectations and that we prefer "Stardust". However, that does not mean that I dislike the movie. In fact, I like it. One of the similarities that both movies mentioned above share is that the main characters dare to be different. They dare to dream, to ask and to explore.
Anyway, I took a personality test to find out which animal is my "daemon". Guess what, my daemon is a Pereus. Never heard of that animal before. Anyway, it looks like a fox. The test reveal that I am : responsible, dependable, a leader, assertive and modest. Ha ha ha pretty good comments. Interested? Can visit the official website and take the test too.

http://www.goldencompassmovie.com/

Worshipper of the west

This holiday, I am seeing a chiropractor who is an American. According to a colleague, this doc is really good and chiropractic can actually make my health better, and improve my migraine condition.
The doc is friendly and helpful. A very nice lady. However, I can't say the same for her Chinese Singaporean assistant. From what I observed, she has a common trait that can be found in many Asians. I cannot remember the term for it in English, but in Chinese its 崇洋。 From what I observed, she worships the Caucasians. When she speaks to Caucasian patients, she will fake an American accent. The service is super GOOOOD, always with a smile and a chat. Her attitude changes when she speaks to Singaporeans, she becomes Mdm 苦瓜脸 (even though most of them were polite and had a smile on our faces) and is very rude. But of course, there are some exceptions too. She is nice to the RICH Singaporeans (you can tell from the bags they carry and the clothes they wear.) Her attitude towards the NS boys are the worst.
As for me, for some reason, she will fake that American accent when she speaks to me, but without the smiling face. I always wonder why. To show that her English is more "powerful" than moi ? To show her superiority cos moi is just a poor Chinese Language Teacher?
Nonetheless, I enjoy studying her behaviour while waiting for my turn to see the doc.

快乐

快乐既是一种心情，也是一种态度。在有值得让你快乐的事发生时，此时的快乐是一种心情；而当事情的发展不如你意时，深呼吸一口，把心情调整到快乐，这就是一种态度。

A long lost friend

The reason why I am awake now is that I have been trying to figure out how to make my "facebbok" more presentable. To many, that is very simple. To me, "techno 白痴", I am still trying to figure out why it is so HOT! I do not like to leave things till tomorrow, hence here I am. I managed to find a long lost friend - WX ,who went to the same sec sch as me. Woa! She has changed a lot. Working in a big offshore bank now. Must be doing very well, cos even her wedding photo was taken in Australia.
Sigh. After looking at her photos, I have this weird feeling which I can't explain. It is not envy, neither is it jealousy. After joining the teaching profession, my life has become so "enclosed" and "protected". I remembered we ( WX and I ) used to go home together. During our one hr plus journey home, we usually talk about our hopes and ambitions. She was the blur blur one who did not know what she really wanted. As for me, I knew I wanted to be SOMEBODY someday. I had aimed for the sky. However, look where I am right now - just a teacher. Sigh. I never regret my choice to join the teaching profession, but as I looked at her photos, I could not help but wonder what my life would turn out to be if I have made a different choice somewhere along my life, where I would turn up to be. Would it be better, or would it be worse, I could not help but wonder......

Pain

I do not know the 5 young men who died in Cambodia recently. Neither do I know their family members. But somehow, I feel sad. I know how it feels to lose a loved one all of a sudden. The anguish,the grief, and the regrets. You would wish that you could turn back the clock, to spend more time with him or her, to say good bye. Life can never be the same again......

The "blaming game"

Around a week has passed by since the released of PSLE results. Met a few parents in the past few days (by coincidence), one or two have accepted the truth well but the others are still playing the "blaming game". WHO is responsible for their kids' poor results? To them, the possible culprits are namely, the school, the principal, the teachers and their own children. Most common complaints are : "School standard is too low", "the school only takes good care of the good pupils", "the school never stretch their children's potential to the limit", "the teacher is too fierce", "the child is too lazy" etc. The funny thing is they will never blame themselves. I have heard of a parent who walked away angrily who she learnt of her child's result. The mother left the poor child standing there, in tears.
There are parents who are simply "bo chap". For the past 6 years, they did not "push" their children to excel for fear of giving them stress. They are too busy to even check their daily homework or weekly spellings. Some even have no clue who their children's teachers are. On meet the parents' day, it is always no show for them. The excuses given are they are too busy or no point going as what the teachers said are the same every year......
It takes two hands to clap. The school and teachers will definately do our part, but we really need the parents' cooperation in order to make things work. There is no use crying over spill milk. There is no point "playing the blaming game."

My pupil - JJ

I have taught JJ for 2 years.
I heard stories about him from the moment I knew I was to teach him. He was a rather "difficult" child. When he was in the lower primary, he refused to attend lessons, walked out of the hall if the talk was too boring for him, dozed off in class and even tried to jump from the second floor!
I remembered on the very first day of sch, he slept through my lesson. Unlike other kids, he was unable to focus and concentrate. He would walked around in the classroom, doing things he liked. At first, I would tried to make him sit down. As time passes, I realised that it was not his fault, he just could not comprehend and understand what he did was wrong. What made things worse was that kids would teased him and said he was crazy. Whenever JJ was teased, he would not have much response except to tell his classmates that he is not sick! However, if one is to attack him physically, he would fight back. There was once it took three male teachers to nail him down!
After half a yr of observation, I sent him to the EP. He was then diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia. I finally know why he was such a "difficult" child. It is very difficult for a child with ADHD to study. With an ADHD and dyslexic child, it is almost impossible ( especially when the teacher has other 30 pupils to account for).
Knowing his condition, somehow makes his life easier for him. Instead of emphasing on his studies, I tried to build up his self esteem, by asking him to help me, by praising him in front of the whole class. I explained to the others that he is not crazy and stopped kids from teasing him. After a while, I see the change in JJ. His behaviour has improved tremendously and he listens to my instructions (though at times, nothing I said seems to work). But sad to say, academically, he did not learn much from me. Listening and oral skills, maybe, but not written work .
At times, I feel bad, cos I think more can be done for him.

成绩放榜了！

每一年的这个时候，一定有人欢喜有人忧。
今天一大早，一大群的小六老师便围在电脑前，等教育部把成绩传来。气氛非常紧张。我在那儿站了老半天，但却没有什么感觉。我可以理解他们的焦虑，但对我而言，我已经尽力了，学生们多数也尽力了，如果真的考不好，我们又能怎么样？小六会考虽然重要，但他们往后要走的路还很漫长。何必因为一次的失败而气馁呢？我深信只要他们拥有正确的价值观，态度积极，将来长大后一定没问题的。加油吧！！ This is not the end, it is only the beginning of many great things to come! (^-^)

My blogskin

As you know, I tried changing the blogskin but was unsuccessful. Since I did not know how to upload the BEAUTIFUL ones done up by others, I decided to attach a photo to my blog, and change the colours. Quite happy with it. In fact, I am glad that the upload from blogskin did not work out. Now my blog is really my kind of style. Simple and nice. The photo was taken in June in Melbourne. A snapshot that turned out quite nice. (^-^)
Moral of the story : There are more than one way to do something. If things don't work out, try others. It won't be the end of the world.

I give up!!

Tried for two hrs plus to change the blogskin but was stuck at the final part. Somehow, don't seem to understand the instructions given by my pupil. Sigh. Tired. Falling asleep Zzzz......

大切物

あなたにとて一番大切の物は何?　お金ですか?　キャリアですか?　または家族ですか?　

Exam Results

Finally receieved my exam results. Its a B+. Hee hee..... Not bad for someone who never studys. Rejoice with me !!!!! Yeah!!!!!! Wa Ha Ha Ha......

P.S Losing my mind. Time to let my hair down cos it is HOLIDAY!!!!

My IT skills

I was never good at IT. In fact, my hubby was surprised that I actually know how to blog. It took me two hrs just to figure out how to add the music and songs onto my blog!! I finally got it right with the help from my old friend XZ. Sigh. Pathetic. My next "target" - to learn how to change my blogskin to a BEAUTIFUL one. Ke ke....... Wonder how long that will take me. Anyone out there who can show me step by step how to do it?

Graduation

Yippie its the last day of school!!!!!! Always like this time of the year!!!!! The P sixes had their graduation ceremony today. As usual, at the end of it, most of the gals were crying and the boys ended up laughing at their friends. They would always remember this day, I guess. However, sad to say, there are some pupils who prefer to stay at home. They did not know what they have missed out. The singing and actions might seem lame to some, but the song in fact speak of hopes and aspiration. That was also the last chance they stood on the school's stage and performed with their friends. To those who bother to wake up early, and who had willing to forgo a few hrs of gaming time to attend this ceremony, good for you. You might not fully understand the purpose of this ceremony, but when you grow older, you would cherish this moment forever.

Perfection might not be so perfect after all

These few days, school is a "happening" place with quite a number of activities being carried out. There were the Sports Carnival, the P3-4 Chinese Proficiency Test, pupils were also away for the Leadership Camp and of course, the Prize Giving Day rehearsal has been on going almost everyday.
Speaking of the Prize Goiving Day rehearsal, P6 pupils had told me that they are pretty sick and tired of the whole thing and they just want to get it over and done with. I can't blame them.From the teachers point of view, practise made perfect. However to the pupils, repeating the same song and actions over and over again, wear away the joy and excitement that they initially felt bit by bit.

Stardust

Watched the movie "Stardust" on Friday nite. Though the story is a little bit kiddy as compared to other fantasy movie such as "Lord of the Rings", I love it. It is a mixture of fantasy and romance. Love the theme song by Take That.

You lied the sky, up above me
A star so bright, you blind me
Yeah yeah
Don’t close your eyes
Don’t fade away, don’t fade away
Oh
Yeah you and me we can ride on a star
If you stay with me girl,
We can rule the world
Yeah you and me we can light up the sky
If you stay by me sideWe can rule the world
If walls break down, I will comfort you
If angels cry, oh I’ll be there for you
You’ve saved my soul
Don’t leave me now don’t leave me now
Yeah you and me we can ride on a star
If you stay with me, girl,
We can rule the world
Yeah you and me we can light up the sky
If you stay by me side
We can rule the world
All the stars are coming out tonight
They’re lighting up the sky tonight
For you, for you
Yeah you and me we can ride on a star
If you stay with me, girl,
We can rule the world
Yeah you and me we can light up the sky
If you stay by me side
We can rule the world
All the stars are coming out tonight
They’re lighting up the sky tonight
For you, for you

Interview with the ah pek who was bullied

Bullies from UK

Knew of this incident recently. Although the ah peh was bullied by them, I think he has reached a stage whereby these mindless acts do not bother him that much anymore (read news report from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=490946&in_page_id=1770). Kudos to the uncle. I feel sorry for the 3 british. This whole incident only showed how childish, immature, inconsiderate and uncivilised they are, and they actually post it on the web to tell the whole world that they are just a bunch of grown up babies!! Shame on them! Pray hard our kids don't behave like them in the future.

Exams

Just had my exams today. Although I am no longer yound and have experienced counless tests and exams, I still have butterflies in my stomach before the exams!! Luckily the paper was not too tough. Think should be able to pass, though I don't think I can score an A. (^-^) But can pass can already. Not asking for more. Done my best.

My kids

One of my pupils asked me this question recently, " Teacher, when are you having a baby?" I told him a reply he never expected. " I have 97 children. Do I need anymore?"
Having a baby is a super private subject and I do not wish to discuss the topic here. But the fact that I have 97 children is true. My chidren even changes every year. (^-^)
The pupils I teach are my kids. For one whole year, I would treat them as my own. Scold them when they misbehaves, cry with them when they feel hurt, laugh with them (^-^) when they feel happy. Of course, there are few cases whereby no matter how hard I tried, I can't seem to treat them as my "kids". Those are the very few that 和我八字不合, I guess. However, I am glad to say that usually sums up to less than 5 per year. Parting with them at the end of the year is always a hard thing for me to do. Over the years, I have learn to "let go" of "my kids". Although I still feel somewhat sad at around this time of the year, I am glad that I have a chance to meet and teach them.

爱心晚餐

One look at me face, majority would say I don't cook, or I can't cook. But they are wrong. Though I am not as good as my mum, I am not that bad (as compared to some friends and colleagues my age). I love to cook. Cooking helps me to de-stress.

Tonight I prepared some spaghetti ( tuna , tomatoes cooked with olive oil) , salad (celery stick and seafood stick with thousand island) and salmon pizza ( wrap, tomatoes, pineapple, cheese and salmon). Hubby never said much but he finished everything. That's his way of saying the food were delicious. (^-^)

My children's work

Recently conducted a lesson on global warming with my P4 pupils. Told them to come up with a Chinese poster on effects of global warming or what we can do in order not to make our "earth" sick. These are some of their works. Most of them had took this assignment seriously (although I told them that this assignment is not compulsory and that if they don't hand in, I won't penalise them) , coming up with different ideas. Think I have quite a number of artists in my class. (^-^)

A dish collector

Went to "Botak Jones" to makan yesterday. The food was delicious and as usual, I enjoyed "people-watching" there. Among all, one "ah ma" caught my attention. She is one of those "dish collectors" at the coffee shop, and looks as if she is in her eighties. Although she is hunchback, she moves swiftly from table to table, collecting dishes. Unlike some dish collectors whom I have met, she looks happy and healthy, and is polite to everyone. I admire her working attitude. From what I observed, she is always the first one to walk to a "dirty" table to collect the dishes. Within seconds, the table is spick and span.
I wonder does she have any children? Why is she still working at this age? I have this sudden urge to find out more about her, about her life. Perhaps, the next time I go AMK , will "visit" her again.

Beauty and Youth

PSLE marking days are usually the time to mingle and to catch up with old friends, ex-colleagues and make new ones. Heard that Poi Ching Pri Sch conducted a grooming course for teachers. When I heard of that, I was pretty excited and told my colleagues that it would be good if we have one too. I jokingly told a male teacher that he would have 眼福if all teachers dressed up nicely. To my surprise, he told me seriously that he thinks that there is no eye candy in our sch and that beauty is not everything and it would not last long. He said that we will aged eventually, and blar blar blar......
Many associate beauty with youth. To them, only the young ones are beautiful. I, on the other hand, beg to differ. I believe that 二十岁有二十岁的美，三十岁有三十岁的美，四十岁有四十岁的美......
Yes, inner beauty is something that will last forever. However, I think the appearance is also very important. We do not have to dress like models, but we have to be neat and dressed up approriately. Taking care of our apperances do not mean that we do not care about the "inner beauty", and that we are bimbos. No offence to my fellow colleague, but to me, his perception of "beauty" is too "narrow" and "shallow".

Changing Times

PSLE marking is always the time to "people watch". Noticed a significant change this year.
In the past, CL teachers are mostly the worst dressed. Really I am not kidding. CL teachers are usually the humble lot, with minimal fashioned sense and majority of them are over the fifties.
This year when I went there , I had a pleasant shock. More than 80% are younger than forties and some of those in their twenties really know how to dress up. They are dressed fashionably and go to the marking centres with full make up on their faces!
That's when I realised that times have change. Time and Tide really waits for no man......

伤害

今天，教了三年级学生这么一个词 -“伤害”。“伤害”不只是指肉体上的伤害，也可以是心灵上的伤害。我要求他们告诉我，在什么时候，我们会伤害到一个人。我刚说完不久，就有一位女生告诉我：“老师，有些人一生下来就没有爸爸，他们被别人取笑时，他们心灵上就会受到伤害！”听到她这么说时，我的心都碎了。这孩子来自单亲家庭，想必她所说的“有一些人”就是自己吧！
据我所知，班上有一些学生是来自单亲家庭的。一些是因为父母离婚了，另一些则是因为父亲或母亲已病逝。小小年纪的他们虽然没有说什么，但偶尔，我可以感受到他们的悲伤。他们不敢告诉其他人，他们来自单亲家庭。他们知道自己的家庭背景与其他人不一样......
我听了她那句话后，对全班同学说，没有爸爸，没有妈妈，并不是他们的错，也不是他们所要的。虽然这一些孩子失去了父爱或母爱，但不代表他们就会变坏，或与常人不一样。取笑来自单亲家庭的孩子的人，是非常不懂事，不会关心别人的人，我们不需要理会他们的话。
希望我的那一番话能鼓励、安慰到那几个孩子。希望他们能健康，快乐地成长。

Suffocated

Sometimes, I do feel "suffocated" by all the expectations that the society and ministry expect from teachers. Feel like shouting out this : Teachers are not saints! Teachers are just ordinary human beings trying our best to earn a living!
I wonder how many out there feels the same as me.

“山上的人”

人都喜欢往高处爬。因为爬得高，就能看得更远。但是身在“高处”的人是否就是看得最清楚的呢？那不一定。以我个人“登山”的经验而言，身在高处时，虽能看得很远，但却无法看清山底的事物。

同样的道理，职位高的人是否就比职位低的人更了解一切呢？那未必。很多时候，当一个人达到某一种身份地位时，他就会忘了“山下的人”,也看不清“山下的事物”，眼前他所看到的是远处那更高的山峰。

我的6D学生

我发现我在这个BLOG里从未提到他们。他们是我另一班的小六生。比起6F的学生他们静多了。他们上课时，多数都是静静的，不出声，不给我添麻烦。他们当中有几个偶尔会迟交功课，或不做功课。他们的学业成绩虽比不上6F的一些学生，但我认为他们在学习态度和品行上不会输给6F的学生，甚至在某一些方面会比他们来的强。

他们知道自己的成绩不如其他人，因此有一些特别用功，特别努力。他们对老师有礼貌，懂得关心他人，不计较太多。一个很好的例子就是：叫他们捡起地上的垃圾时，他们会乖乖照做，不会像一些其他的“好班”同学那样，说垃圾又不是他们丢的，为什么要捡起来。

我深信只要拥有正确的态度和价值观，他们往后一定不成问题。

Difference between children and adults

When I told my hubby that I won't be dancing together with my fellow CL colleagues and will be joining the P3 teachers on stage instead, his immediate reaction was that, that was a poor PR move. He advised me to join the CL team too, or else others would think that I have no team spirit.

When the pupils did not see me dancing away with the rest of the CL teachers, one or two asked me why. My answer was : my main purpose was to "entertain" them. Once would do. Since I am a P3 form teacher, its only logical that I join the P3 teachers. They smiled and seemed satisfied with my answer.

I had the same answer for both of them, yet their reactions were so much different. Adults tend to think too much, care too much what others think of them at times. Children are more innocent, less complicated.

When handling such situations, I prefer the children's way of thinking.

Good Bye , Serene

Someone I used to know passed away recently. We were from the same sec and jc. Took me a few days to link her name with her looks. Although I did not know her well, I remembered she was a nice gentle gal.
Sad and shocked to hear that someone my age had passed away. Life is so unpredictable. Fate can be so cruel......

もう疲れた

最近いろいろことがありました。本とに疲れました。現実から逃げたい。この冷たい世界が嫌い。私はもう疲れた ......

背痛啊！

昨天早晨醒来，赫然发现自己的背非常僵硬，很痛很痛。我无法转动我的头，连低头都有困难！昨天看了西医，今天见了中医，到处寻找能减轻我的病痛的“灵丹”。医生们都说我这病是职业病，是长期坐着批改书本所造成的，也可能是压力造成的。不管是什么原因也好，我只想快点好起来。还有很多事等着我去做，我不能病倒。

Quote from Hazel

Hazel 对我说了一句很有意思的话。应该是从电视上学来的。

“我什么都有，但也什么都没有。
我什么都没有，但也什么都不缺。”

致6F的学生

我今天虽失望，但也感到欣慰。失望是因为你们当中有些人做了一些不该做的事，欣慰是因为你们勇于认错。It takes lots of courage to admit one's mistake. 你们能坦然面对自己的过错，为自己的行为负责，我感到很高兴。希望你们将来做什么事前，都要考虑后果，勇敢地面对一切。

购物袋

为了减少使用塑料袋，最近我去“买菜”时，总是会携带自己的购物袋。今天在超市时，看到一个auntie也这么做。刚开始，我觉得这个auntie好IN哦，也会环保，不错不错。仔细一看，她的购物袋里有好多个塑料袋。我猜想，她应该不是为了环保而用购物袋的，只是嫌大包小包的，很麻烦，于是把一切全都“丢”进购物袋里。唉，她这么做，不就失去了使用购物袋的意义了吗？

Duck Tours

Joined the Duck Tours on Thursday. Rode on the authentic Vietnam War craft that glides as well on land as on sea. The whole journey lasted 60-minute. I was prepared to get wet, however, as it was low tide during that time, my hubby and I did not even have a drop of water splash on us. The whole experience was quite refreshing and unique. We were looking at our country from a tourist point of view. Made me feel proud to be a Singaporean.

Reflection

Every now and then, I would reflect upon my life. Started doing this while I was a primary school pupil. Usually its during the hols and at the end of the year. At that time, I would write down my resolutions for the new year, such as what marks to aim for, which sch, better behaviour etc. As time passes, the " reflection time" seems to grow more and more frequent.

Perhaps I have matured. Just realised that I do not "aim" for material things anymore. Nowadays, I have become more "spiritual". Ha ha......I will not go into details but my recent reflection could be summarised into a short phrase " 一切尽力而为，只求心安理得".

好开心！！\(^0^)/

昨天，我好高兴。不是因为我收到了好多礼物，不是因为盼望已久的假期到了，而是我去年的一位学生回来看我。

D是很多人眼里的“坏”孩子。他不准时交功课，上课时不专心，偶尔逃课，常被校方罚。

我教了他两年。这孩子，虽然读书不怎么用心，但是我深信他本性不坏，至少我认为他肯给我这个老师“面子”，上课时，没有给我添太大的麻烦。

D见到我时有一点不好意思。他还把他的成绩册拿给我看。他考得不错，只有两科不及格。我忘记是哪两科了。(^-^) 我只记得他的华文及格了，history 和visual arts考到70分。很不错。

不知是不是受了“黑色”的影响，我告诉他：“老师看到你好高兴，好想抱一抱你!" 可是，我只是说说罢了，没有抱他。哈哈！！


我感到好欣慰，这”坏孩子”竟然还记得我这一个老师，还特地把成绩册拿出来给我看。他的出现，比任何礼物都来得可贵......

Hugs

I had a pleasant shock today. (^-^) One of my P4 boys gave me a hug suddenly, without warning......
Well, I am used to having pupils hugging me, but they are usually girls who are more expressive. So this is something new to me. When I told my P6 pupils about this, they were laughing away, and "yeeing" away. Their reactions were no surprise to me.
Asians are less vocal and are generally quite shy. However, to me, I view hugging as a way of saying thank you, showing concern to others. It has therapatic effects. When I feel sad, I would hug my god daughter or my hubby. (^-^) It gives me the energy to go on, the courage to continue. When pupils hugged me, I felt appreciated and most importantly, their trust in me. The younger ones treat me as their "mother", that's why they hugged me. The older ones, I sensed their trust and friendship.
Of course, I am not encouraging you to go around hugging people. However, a hug at the right time, the right place could save someone, could make someone feel better and good. I was feeling lousy today after looking at my pupils' results. That hug made me feel so much better. At least I know, to that boy, I am not a lousy teacher......

预考结束了

预考终于结束了！这一个学段，我忙得几乎喘不过气来。好累，好累啊！
这几天，孩子们都无心上课，我也不怪他们。决定“放他们几天假”，下一个星期才继续“拼PSLE”！

All the best to my P6 pupils

My P6 kids will be having their PSLE Oral examinations soon. Think most of them are well-prepared. Should be no problem. Stay calm and do your best. Good luck to everyone of you.

压力

最近，给了自己很大的压力。担心我教不好学生，担心学生不懂事，不好好学习。叹..... 就因这样这几天的心情都不好。可说是低到谷底了。
星期四时，庭芳对我说了一句话：“Teacher，爬得越高，跌得越重啊！”虽然我不同意她这种消极的想法，但这一句话点醒了我。原来孩子们也感受到那无形的压力。他们正在用各自的方式去面对这压力。有一些选择接受这挑战，有些选择逃避，一些则选择以平常心对待它。

Growing pains

It is THAT time of the year again - PSLE !!! My experience tells me this is usually the time when 'normal' kids go haywire and teachers go 'crazy' because of them.
I have noticed some changes in a few of the pupils, especially those from 6F. Quite worry about them. Really wish to tell them what to do, to help them. However, I can't 'protect' them forever. They have to learn how to cope with life's ups and downs themselves. The growing up process is never an easy one. We have to learn to bear the consequences of our decisions. Can sense some puppy love among a few of them. Sigh. There is nothing wrong with it, but why must it be during this crucial period??? Some of them are stressed out because of the heavy "workload", worksheets after worksheets, tuition after tuition, nagging after nagging, scoldings after scoldings. Try not to lecture them too much but at times really can't take it, especially when I sense that they are not performing as well as what they should be.

My Will 2

I have finally done up my will. Feel as if a load has been taken off my shoulder. Yesterday was the first time I went to a Law Firm. Pretty interesting experience. The whole process lasted for more than 1 hour.
Now if anything happens, I will not have any worries. My parents will be well taken care of .

Oldies

Have not listen to English songs for a looooooonnnnng time. Guess that's because I do not like the style of the pop songs nowadays. Have been "digging" up my memory recently, trying to remember what were the songs I loved when I was younger. I remember Micheal Jackson ofcourse, but I don't like him. I love ballads, especially those sang by Debbie Gibson, Wilson Phillips and the Corrs. You can go to Youtube to watch their MVs. My favourites are Debbie's "Lost in your Eyes" and " Electric Youth", WP's "Hold on" and "You don't see me cry".

假和尚

上一个星期的海峡时报刊登了这么一则新闻，一群外国人来新游玩，并冒充和尚，到处去行乞，赚钱。有一些一天内可以“赚取”几百元！
我本身是佛教徒，但我不会在路上捐钱给和尚。不是因为我吝啬，也不是因为我铁石心肠，而是我知道，一个真正的和尚是不会在街上随便向人讨钱的。我也相信帮人的方式有好多种。
新加坡人很奇怪，多数人总会拨电话捐钱给慈善机构，或捐钱给在街上募捐的人。但是真正看到需要帮助的人的时候，却袖手旁观，视若无睹。我就曾经看过一些人捐钱给“假和尚”，却不自动上前帮忙一位迷了路的盲人！怎么会这样呢？我们的社会出现了什么问题？

Oral examinations

Feel as if my head might burst anytime. Tested my pupils for their oral examinations. I am quite satisfied with some of their resuls. Some of them had shown improvements, especially the pupils from Pri 6D. As for the pupils from 6F, surprisingly, a few did not do as well as I expected. Those few need to change their " bo chap" attitude and buck up. They have so much potential in them, and yet they refused to "push" themselves a little bit harder. A pity, I think.

美国人VS新加坡人

前几天，一个外国的人在我面前批评新加坡人，还说什么美国人较好。我听了心里感到很气愤。他怎么能一竹竿打翻一船人呢？新加坡人虽有缺点，但我们也有我们的优点。说美国人好？ 他到底认识多少个美国人？他不曾在美国居住过又怎么知道新加坡人不如美国人呢？我好想一口气对着他，破口大骂。可是我并没有这么做。原因是：一，我不想伤了和气，二，有见识的人听了之后，都会晓得事实并非如此。那我又何必跟他一般见识呢？每一个国度的人都不一样，各有千秋，又何必做比较呢？
我们常常以自己的角度去判断一件事或人，只要不“顺从"自己的，都是坏的，和自己想法、作法相同的，就是好的。我们很少会以不同角度去看待一个人，去分析一件事......

Act cute

I always think that as a teacher, my every actions might affect the children. So I always try to be as "prim and proper" as possible, but at times, especially if I am comfortable with the kids, I might forgot the fact that I am their teacher, and will behave as if I am with a group of younger friends. That was what happened today. I accidentedly "blar" out the words "act cute". Sigh...... That is usually the words I used whenever I am with a group of friends. Though I was joking, I am not sure if that kid had taken me seriously, or whether I had hurt his feelings or not. Mmm... I hope not. So to Kenny, I hope you don't mind. And honestly, as what your friends said, you are cute and friendly, and I am sure you are not acting.

王伯

昨晚看了“前线追踪”。 节目内容是和榜鹅有关。原来在那儿的丛林里住着一位王老伯。他有儿有女却选择不依靠子女，独自在那儿自力更生。他住在一间破旧的小木屋，那儿没自来水，也没电。他没有工作，在那儿种菜，靠卖菜来赚取“一碗粥”。他知道自己不应该在那片土地上耕种，也知道自己理亏，但他只想糊口，安安静静地过活。
我同情他，也敬佩他。同情他是因为他是新加坡快速发展的“牺牲品”，是社会所遗忘了的人。我敬佩他，是因为他能自力更生，在困境中求生存。我似乎可以感觉得到他的无奈，他的孤独。我想节目一播出，很多人都会很忙。有关机构，应该会派人去那儿逼他搬迁，社工也会拜访他，帮他找工作......
我并不认识王伯，但我祝福他，希望他能健康快乐。唉......我们新加坡还多少个像王伯一样的人呢？被社会遗忘，孤孤单单地走完他们剩下的人生旅途。

我的童年

贤贤在我的blog提到，假期没事做，好闷啊。其他一两位同学也有同感。我可以了解他们为什么这么闷。平时他们几乎每天忙着上课、做功课、补习、上课外活动等等，已经“忙”惯了。到了假期，“脚步”突然放慢了，难免会觉得时间太多了，不晓得该如何利用它。
我小时候，可没有这类“问题”。我喜欢上学，也喜欢假期。假期时，我可以有更多时间在家里陪奶奶。虽然当时家境并不富裕，我的生活却过得很充实。假期时，我和弟弟都会参加联络所所举办的活动。我们姐弟俩（当时三弟还小）会跟一群“哥哥姐姐”到处收集旧报纸和衣服。因此年纪轻轻的我们已经知道什么是环保。有时，我们会约了邻居的小朋友，一大群人，天还没亮，就到附近的公园晨运，之后便到小贩中心吃早餐。下午那段时间，不是读故事书，就是看卡通片。有时我也会开始为新的学期做好准备，开始阅读课文。
当时我们组屋旁边有一块空地，奶奶也常常带我们到那儿放风筝。空地旁有一条大水沟，我们也会爬下去抓guppies。当时的我不觉得臭，也不觉得脏，更不觉得那是一件危险的事。现在回想起来，觉得自己当时胆子好大，行为也不像个女生。(^-^)

恶梦

要开学了。发现自己还有好多事没办好。开始有些紧张了。前几晚，我还做了个恶梦，梦见自己起不来，结果上学迟到了。自己拼了命跑去学校，却永远也跑不到。跑到一半时，才发现自己没穿鞋子！！！
从小到大，我都是这样，开学前一定会做这样的梦，整晚在那儿“跑”的感觉，又紧张又害怕，害得自己第二天总是疲惫不堪。真累人......

U-turn

We were lost quite a number of times in Melbourne city, and had made quite a number of U-turns. Just thinking, if we are lost in the streets, we can always make a U-turn. However, in life, we can't do that. How many U-turns can one get? Not many, I guess. For many, the lost will be forever.
So grab hold and cherish every moment you have, for you may never pass this way again.

Melbourne trip 2007 Day 3

Every Sunday, there would be a flea market at St Kilda's beach. The stalls there sold handicrafts made by the stallholders themselves. Bought a few things there. Again, the people there were extremely friendly. Unlike Victoria market, St Kilda is more for the locals. A place where people mingle and search for unique things. We loved that place. I prefer St Kilda to Victoria Market, because I think Vic is too commercialise.

Later that day, we drove to the Penguin Island. Along the way, I got out of the car to "talk" to the cows. Surprisingly, they actually responded to my "mooing" and started to move towards me! That gave me a fright and I quickly hopped into the car!!

Melbourne Trip 2007 Day 2

Realised the residents in Melbourne are generally friendly. Strangers will smile at us. One offered to take pictures for us. We went to take a "choo choo" train, known as the " Puffing Billy". The whole place is operated by volunteers, hence there were lots of "old aunties and uncles" there. Very friendly people , with excellent customer service.

We could "stick out" our legs when the train moves. Super cool....... Never been on a steam train before. The people on the road or in the car would wave at the train whenever it passed by. Another act that impressed me.

In the evening, we drove up to Mt Dandenong. Superb view there. Sky was clear that day, hence it was full of stars. Saw the Southern Cross' Stars and, of course, Venus and the Orion belt. Beautiful.

Melbourne trip 2007 Day 1

Its supposed to be winter season in Melbourne right now, however, it is not as cold as the Spring time in Japan, when I went there in March. I have been to Australia before, but this was the first time I went to Melbourne. Upon arrival, my hubby and I went to collect our car. It was a hyundai Tuscon ( I think. I am not very into cars. ) Nice and big. More than enough space to put our luggage. As it was still early to check into the serviced apartment, we decided to do some shopping first, hence we went to the Victoria market.

We had a hard time locating it. Unlike in Singapore, in Melbourne city, cars have to keep left to turn right, there were trams on the road and there were lots of restrictions. Messy. I was of no help to my hubby as I am poor at reading maps. Sigh. By the time we reached the serviced apartment in the afternoon, we were exhausted......

我回来了！！！

昨晚刚从墨尔本回来。那儿的天气好好，人们也很友善。回到这儿后，觉得新加坡好热，好热啊！尽管如此，回到家的感觉真好。休息了一周，下一个星期，又得回学校了。由于放假之前大病了一场,再加上开始有"holiday mood”， 因此什么书都不改。结果书本越堆越多，现在已成了一座“山”！下周真的得好好努力了！

Irony

About to leave for Melbourne in a few hrs time. The funny thing is whenever I travel out of Singapore, I would miss Singapore a lot. But when I am here, at times I can't wait to get out of the country to take a break. Funny right? Although I am still here in Singapore, I am missing it already. Sigh....... Irony.

Pirates of the Caribbean

Just watched the "Pirates of the Caribbean - At World's End" with my hubby. Well, I prefer the first two movies. This one is a little "messy". You will need to concentrate so that you can understand what is going on. I fell asleep even before the movie starts. Hee......was too tired. Woke up 20 mins later. By then, they were on their way to save Jack Sparrow. Anyway, if any of you is going to catch the show, you must stay till the end of the credits. Some more part at the end.

Pri 6DF

每当我踏进小六那一班的课室时，很多时候，我都是板着一张脸。但多数时候，我进去后没多久，脸上一定露出笑容。那一班学生，不是天使。他们很顽皮，很喜欢“讨价还价”，讨厌做功课。不管是男的或是女的，都说个不停。但是，上他们课时，我感到很开心。他们虽顽皮，但不会没礼貌；虽叽喳，但上课时，最专心的也是他们这一班。我生病在家时，他们也会传简讯也我，祝我早日康复。如果几天没见，“萱萱”一定会说：“老师，I miss you le. How come you never come?" 我常说她好肉麻，但其实心里感到很欣慰......

Sunrise

Guess where is this place? Look beautiful right? I see this scenary everyday! Every morning when I look out of my living room's window, this is what I will see, that is if weather permits. (^-^)

Japanese cemetary

During the March holidays, I went to Japan. This time round, I went to Koya San. If you follow a package tour, don't think they will bring you there, because the most famous attraction is the cemetary. However, I think that place is pretty cool. Lots of famous people were buried there. Some of the tombs were covered with moss like the one showed in the picture above. They looked exactly like a scene from the animation " Spirited Away". Taking a stroll through the forest filled with tombs is an unforgettable experience.

我爱高山

我喜欢大自然，喜欢大海，更爱高山。我觉得我们的人生旅途中，也会出现很多座“山”，有些高，有些矮，不管如何我们都得鼓起勇气去克服，去“攀登”每一座“山”。

Reflection

I have been touching on the topics of Life and Death lately. I am not getting pessimistic, neither am I giving up hope. Some may say that I am too free, that's why I have time to think of all these. Maybe. Well, I guess at times we need to slow down our pace and ask ourselves what do we want, what can I do so that my limited time in this world won't come to a waste. Guess that's what I have been asking myself lately.

THE DAY

Saw a Taiwanese variety show tonight. Its a tribute to a female entertainer by the name of "Xu Wei Lun". She had died in a car accident earlier this year. She was in her early 20s.

I couldn't help but feel that life is so unpredictable. One moment you are alive, the other moment, you might be gone. You would never know which day is THE DAY. If we know when is our turn to go, perhaps we would all live differently, making different choices in our life.

I do not know when is THE DAY for me. I intend not to dwell on it but to "embrace" it, by living the best that I can everyday. I hope that when THE DAY comes, I can leave this world with no regrets.....

Reborn

Each night, when I go to sleep, I die. And the next morning, when I wake up, I am reborn. -Mahatma Gandhi

我是一个幸福的“孩子”

在我懂事以来，妈妈从未抱过我，也不曾说过她爱我们。可我们姐弟三人都晓得妈妈很疼我们，也知道不管发生什么事，她都会默默支持我们。近来，我遇到好多不如意的事，妈妈总是在一旁聆听，听完后，有时鼓励我，有时则“骂”我。今天，她和爸爸又用他们那特别的方式来安慰我，来关心我。他们大老远买了一包小时候我喜欢吃的福建虾面，并送到我家楼下来。这已经不是第一次了。上回，我感到失落时，他们也买了我小时，常吃的卤面给我吃。一包虾面虽不是什么山珍海味，但它包含了父母对我的关爱。这一顿晚餐，我吃得好开心。那一包虾面，使我感觉到幸福。。。。。。

Tensions of the opposites

Life is a series of pulls back and forth. You want to do one thing, but you are bound to do something else. Something hurts you, yet you know it shouldn't. You take certain things for granted, even when you know you should never take anything for granted. ....A tension of opposites, like a pull on a rubber band. And most of us live somewhere in the middle..... - quote from " Tuesdays with Morrie".

Making a will

Told my friend that I am going to make a will. That frightens the hell out of her. She thinks that I going to do something stupid. I told her I am ok. I won't "sentence" myself to death before god says so. Things aren't that bad. Whatever happens, it won't be the end of the world.
Quote from the book"Tuesdays with Morrie" : Everyone knows they're going to die, but nobody believes it. If we did, we would do things differently......To know you are going to die, and to be prepared for it at any time. That's better. That way you can actually be more involved in your life while you are living....."

Grandma

I loved my grandma a lot. Never knew that till the day she died. That was twenty years ago. Can never forget her looks, her smile. Whenever I feel depressed, I will miss her even more. My husband said when one died, that's it. No heaven nor hell. I, on the other hand, choose to believe there is heaven and there is hell. It gives me hope and keeps me going. That the loved ones that are long gone are somewhere out there, and one day, we will meet again.

Wisdom

May god grant me the courage to change the things I can,
the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
and the wisdom to see the difference.