Destination Everywhere: Year-End Holidays 2012

Dear Aidan,

You are a very fortunate little boy. Papa works hard for 2 offices so we can do what we love best - and I don't mean shopping but travelling - and that's we did last year end!

Airport at Langkawi: "Are you going to dig the sand with that, Aidan?"

Being towed about like a Mini Maharaja

"Come on in, Aidan. There are no sharks here."

Getting ready to play!

"Are they going to eat me?"

Volleyball time!

What's a holiday without some silly fun?

The pool had laughing gas

Happy Aidan, sandy Mama

First up was Tanjung Rhu in Langkawi (Malaysia) for 6 days. Followed by Christmas in Bangkok with Poh-Poh, Grandpa and Grandma as well as Uncle Brian and Aunty Angeline. Then, at the start of the new year, you and Mama tagged along for Papa's annual company trip to Hua Hin (Thailand).

I think you had a really good time. At every destination, you proclaimed each was your 'favourite holiday'.





Bangkok: It was a short stay that straddled Christmas Day. Our hotel was right smack in the middle of the city and connected to a shopping centre. From the get-go, you got presents from Grandpa, Grandma, Poh-Poh and Uncle Brian and Aunty Angeline, from superhero t- shirts (a new obsession) to trailer trucks. It was Christmas after all. But this particular season of 'receiving' became a headache for Papa and Mama when we returned to KL though. Because you started asking for presents everyday.

Going off to our next destination...Bangkok!

Dinner-time at Asiatic, a busy and colourful promenade by the river...

A photo-session after our donation to orphans

Good ice-cream at the MBK Shopping Centre next door

Kissing the feet of Baby Jesus

Christmas Mass in Bangkok

Little gifts from Santa after the Mass

Christmas Dinner at the Londoners

A picture with the Chef that took a liking to you

We noticed a few emerging traits during this month-long escapade, though. Firstly, you're becoming a friendly little boy, offering "hellos" without fear to anyone we meet or bump into.

When it was just the three of us at Tanjung Rhu, you were also fine being left at the Kids' Club on your own. (Okay, caveat: you were more comfortable when you were the only one there the first few days. But you made a new friend - James - on the third day and that was great!)

Trainspotting at the windows

Secondly, when we were with Papa's colleagues in Hua Hin, you were eager to follow Aunty Elaine and Uncle Chris as well as Uncle Akmal and Aunty Aida around. In short, you dumped us a few times and didn't look back.

Your appetite for movies is also growing and Mama has had to keep tabs on how much of it you watch. Thankfully, for now, it's about 1-1.5 hours.

There's another part to your growing up that's not the best thing however: I notice that you don't really badger Mama to head to the playground anymore. And when Mama encourages you to, you state quite strongly that you'd rather be indoors.

I guess kids change all the time as they grow up. But it's really important to be outdoors every day to get some fresh air and exercise. It's also good for your eyes.

Hopefully, when you enrol into the Sportball program next year, you'll rediscover your passion for football.

Welcome drink at the hotel lobby, Hua Hin

Mangrove tour by boat 

Making your way up the caves like a steady little man...

Can you remember this scene, Aidan?

Feeding the little doggy in the cave

Telling Aunty Elaine your long story about the falling rocks

It must be said that you do have quite an adventurous spirit. You're a kid who swings between 'being like Mama' (cautious observer, homebody, sensitive) and 'channeling Papa' (gregarious, restless, inquisitive). During our climb up the 480 m hill to the caves, you were a good sport. No complaints about tiredness or meltdowns over the unbearable heat of the day.

We were very proud of you that day.

Finally, Mama has also noticed a growing bond between Papa and you. I still remember when you were under 3.5 years old, when you gave Papa a bit of a hard time: every time he came home early to see you, you'd drag your feet to say hello or get the hug he wanted to give you. And whenever it was Papa's turn to wake you up and prep you for play-school, you'd be grumpy and teary.

These days, it's "Papa, Papa this-and-that". I'd be lying if I said I don't feel a pinch of bittersweetness. After all, it's but one sign of things to come not so far into the future. But I'm definitely chuffed to see our family grow in love on different levels.

It's the Silly Father and Spawn Show!

You'd better pay to be entertained, Mama!

What do you mean, no ice-cream today?

As with all fun and good things (and you'll learn this as you grow older), our holiday ended seemingly all too quickly. When we got back to Singapore, your new school term was already well into the second week. Getting back into the groove of a routine was tough on everybody. You were grumpy the first few mornings, too. So was Papa.

But Life is like this. We work hard. We play hard. And in between, we travel to meet the world, and the world delights us with its variety of colour and experiences. 

Meanwhile, we must find Life's joys also in the small moments, not just in special holidays. Otherwise, we would be quite miserable for most of the year.

Anyway, these are books that you're enjoying this month: The Incredible Book Eating Boy (Oliver Jeffers), Tyrannosaurus Drip (Julia Donaldson and David Roberts) and Walter the Baker (Eric Carle).

I must put in a word about books: You love reading so much that you're always trying to get Mama to read more than 1 or 2 storybooks! As it happens, you also love playing so much that there usually isn't any time to do more than 2 a night!

Your favourites this month: Tyrannosaurus Drip has been getting a lot of requests!

Early Christmas Things

Dear Aidan,

By now you will know that at the Pereira household, Christmas comes early. The tree goes up early, the party happens early and thoughts of holidays invade our minds early too.

In fact, this year, we are going away for a long, long time come 19 November. We won't be back in Singapore till the 13th of January so you'll be missing a week of school.

As you get older, you understand the concept of holidays more. You actually said you like staying at hotels and yes, you ask about a thousands times whether 'today' is the day we're all going for our trip. Until the day actually arrives. But long before the day did arrive, we were busy 1) decorating and putting up the tree 2) planning our Christmas party with your friends, Lana and Theo as well as their parents.

Helping prep the tree

Mr. Cheeks' favourite pose for anything

The finished tree

I'll admit you did a great job helping us with the tree. You watched Papa attach the stands, fanned out the branches, and handed us baubles. In fact, you even tried your hand at hanging the decor - a tip by the way: it's good to spread them out Honey, instead of putting them all in one corner!


Halfway through the task, you broke into a spontaneous dance. It so happened that Papa had the Alt J CD spinning in the player and a particular song got you to your feet.


We were quite surprised at what a natural dancer you were. Looks like performance is your thing. In fact, looks like we should enroll you in Drama class next year!

Everyone's favourite tree-decorating moment

And as per tradition, after the tree was done, Papa carried you so you could put the star on top. Tea and pineapple tarts followed. Hmm, you ate about 5 out of the 10 on the dish.

A week later, we threw the small Christmas party. There were steaks, soba noodle salad and curried chicken wings plus a salad for the adults. And sweet and sour pork with buttered rice and broccoli for you and your friends. Mama even had special Dora and Chuggington plates brought out for the occasion!

The Christmas spread...Praise God!

Mm...wings!

Aunty Kea-Nai and Aunty Glenda talking about babies and work

Always happy with friends around

Everyone arrived about 7 o'clock. And the house was just full of giggles and silliness. The boyishness really cropped up between Theo and you. Just endless laughter for no reason. Poor Lana had to sit apart a little to avoid the noise.

Look, we're boys!

A-hahahahahaha!

Now, I don't know exactly what happened but you had a meltdown while the highlight of the party unfurled. You see, Mama had bought fluffy reindeer antlers and a Santa Claus costume because Uncle Ian, Uncle Michel and Papa were going to dress up and surprise all you kids after dinner. But when they came out of the room - Uncle Michel being Santa pretended to ride on Uncle Ian and Papa who were the reindeer - you were sullen and didn't want to smile or kiss 'Santa' to get your gift.

After-dinner movie!

Uncle Ian: I don't know this fellow!

Someone's sulking on Mama's lap

I think your unhappiness started to build up early on when Lana and Theo rummaged your toy box when they first arrived and started playing together. I remember you were caught between wanting to share and making sure they didn't just grab your things. You'd want your toy back seconds after allowing them to play with them and that just wasn't right!

I have to admit I was disappointed with you. While I cherished the fact that you were grasping for control, you have always been a kid that shares willingly. This display made me wonder if you were just tired of being the 'good guy' all the time. When we asked you the next morning what had happened, you said you were tired. I gave you the benefit of the doubt but I also told you that it was unacceptable to be rude in front of guests. We then agreed that you'd go to your room next time to calm down if you ever felt overwhelmed by anger.

Aidan, life is all about give and take. Not hoarding. Not who's the fastest, first and most powerful. When you go to your friends' homes, I'm sure they have a tough time learning to let go of their toys too. But remember, when you show a good example, they'll follow soon enough. Don't wait for them to start, you can make the first move. Taking initiative is another one of Life's valuable lessons which will help you out in the future!

November: The Month to Make...Blasters!

Dear Aidan,

You know there's a no-gun policy in our house.

Yes, that would be the toy gun, the gun made out of the shape of your hand, and the toast that's bitten into the shape of a gun.

Guns are horribly scary things. Their sole purpose is to hurt whether out of self-defense or with intention to injure or kill.

Many people have died from wars involving guns.

And many more have died in the crosshairs of a rifle or machine gun or whatnot.

Many, in fact, of these are children. Innocent children. And out of respect, Mama is determined not to let you turn any sort of 'gun' into a plaything.

And yet.

An AK 47?

What? An ARSENAL?

Sigh.

I am beginning to agree that boys do have that aggression gene in them that makes them pick up on pretend gun and sword fights. Because that's all you have been doing all November.

You didn't touch that tool box of bricks and sticks for a whole month after we bought it. And all of a sudden, it's as if memories of Mama and Papa making tanks and aeroplanes and carts with it made you realise you could make guns with it.

This month also coincides with a sudden turn in your behaviour towards tantrums and annoyance.

And boy, do you get annoyed easily.

When Lana and Theo come over, you're willing to share but you're also tempted to butt in after 5 seconds and insist you want to play with the same toy. (You'd get upset if we told you off too!)

And then there was that inexplicable meltdown during our Christmas party with Lana, Theo and their parents. Uncle Michel, Papa and Uncle Ian came out in their Santa and reindeer costumes hoping to get a giggle out of you kids and while Lana and Theo were curious and tickled, you simply sulked in the corner. (Your response the next morning when we asked why was, "I was getting tired.")

Let's not forget to mention the times when you didn't like Mama's suggestions of going to bed earlier,  drinking your milk quicker, or switching off the TV: I do notice your shooting at me with your 'hand' gun, you know.

I still hold to my theory that you tend to act up around your birthday. But this only means I need to be extra patient, not that you'll be excused, okay? We have to be gracious when our guests come. And don't forget what Mama keeps repeating to you: your friends don't have the same toys you do so they'll be excited to play with yours. Give them a few minutes with each toy and ask for an exchange in a nice  way. (And hopefully by the time you read this, you'll already know that 5 minutes is not the same as 5 seconds!)

Reading definitely stirs your imagination, little one!

On your reading list this month are: The Way Back Home (Oliver Jeffers), The Astonishing Secret of Awesome Man (Michael Chabon) and Lunchbox: The Story of Your Food. You're really beginning to enjoy superhero themes which has its benefits. Mama reckons it's a good way to learn how to 'control your power (strength)' and help others in need. (Unless of course, you take it the other way and start pummeling your friends at playschool!)

"I'll Be Your Friend, Mr. Fish"

Dear Aidan,

Here's a video of you responding to Mama who's pretending to be a lonely fish in an aquarium.

Now, don't get all cool and say, "That's not me! You swapped me with someone else, Mama!" just because you're demonstrating your sweet side here.

The fact is, you're a sweet little fellow.

Well, you're a lot of other things too - silly, funny, cheeky, stubborn, persistent, chatty, etc - but here you're Aidan the Sweet Little Fellow.

And we love it! ;-)

Celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival and Other New Developments

Dear Aidan,

First of all, congratulations on your first poo in the toilet bowl!

It has been months of coaxing and encouragement (with a bit of firmness thrown in, in the last 2 months).  You can be pretty strong-willed at times and I know it was tough for you to accept that your bottom will NOT fall into the toilet bowl along with your poo. Nevertheless, you decided for yourself that you'd try and look - you did it!

Meanwhile, this month has been about helping you understand that manners are important and therefore must be consistent. You can't just say "Good morning" when you feel like it you know. Or "Thank you."
Or "Please". After a few weeks of reminders, however, you're getting better. Although you do try to cheat.

We've noticed also that you're a very curious little fellow and like to get your hands into everything. Especially when we're in a rush to get somewhere. No wonder they warned us about the "Dilly-Dally" years. So on top of the challenge of putting some manners into you, we're also teaching you to: (1) Listen to instructions (2) Accept disappointment when you can't get what you want.

It must be a tough life being a preschooler though, with so many can'ts and don'ts. But you know, we do give you a lot or room to do stuff, be silly, be a kid. Like jump on puddles. Roll your cars on disabled ramps or other such slopes. Mix chili sauce with soup. You just need to understand that there are no negotiations for some things.

Like being rude.

Like deliberately going against what we ask you to do or not do - especially when it comes to your safety.

Like chucking your t-shirt into the toilet bowl.

Here's hoping, that with time and growth and - yes, me nagging - you'll get the difference someday!

Sparkling fun!

We celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival with Lana and her parents this time round. Aunty Glenda invited us to her aunt's house which had a large playground just outside across the street.

Many relatives came by so there were a few kids to play with. Aunty Erica brought many sparklers so you had your first taste of sparklers thanks to her. In fact, you loved them so much that your lantern got left at the side of the climbing station for most of the night.

Luckily, we'd already done our lantern walkabout with Papa at the condominium a few nights back.

Lovely old-fashioned glass-paper lanterns

Big handles for easy access

Loving Papa's hair there

No painting session is complete without getting your hands dirty!

Your weird but beautiful fish. 

You're getting really good at drawing and colouring. I must say that we've come a long way from the days when you refused to let Mama guide your hand, as you were insistent that you knew how to do it. For a long time, it seemed like you knew how to do everything. Even shoot a ball into the basket. Of course, it was all down to interpretation, wasn't it? Your "car" was just multiple swirls those days. But it was a car to you. And your fish was two long lines that didn't meet. Ha ha ha.

I'm preparing to defeat mean people, Mama!

We also think you're a natural performer as you'd get into performance mode easily and put on character voices. You love doing poses, too. And you like jumping on stages and platforms to dance or jump around.

Your sense of humour is also becoming keener as you'd laugh at scenes in your animated movies that you never used to laugh at. Well, there's also the occasional diaper-or-pants-on-the-head trick that you pull off.

We're thinking of enrolling you into a drama or music class but we also don't want to bog you down with activities unless you ask for them. With your imagination though, it'd be a waste not to encourage and nurture it, that's for sure. I mean, you even made a large 'pizza' with water and imaginary flour, cheese and milk the other day.

Now, I like THIS sorta hat, Mama

One large pizza coming up!

Your love for animated movies is growing and I'm sure I'll have to put a cap on it soon.

Right now, you have a collection that includes 'Iron Giant', 'Dinosaurs', 'Toy Story', 'Cars', 'Ratatouille', 'Beauty and the Beast', 'How to Train a Dragon', 'Kung Fu Panda', 'Puss in Boots', 'Fox and the Hound', 'Lilo and Stitch' and 'Lion King'.

I love how your sense of empathy and compassion is growing too. I'm always proud when you help others or give Papa and  kisses when we bump ourselves and go 'Ouch'.

It's important not to just think about yourself, honey. Because lots of people are less fortunate than we are. And many kids just don't have what you have. So if you have something you like - and not just something you have to spare or don't like anymore - it's good to offer it to someone.

My favourite movies of all time!

To help you in your general discomfort with water (well, you like playing with water and splashing about in the pool but you're very particular about water getting into your nose or in your eyes although you're getting better at coping with it), Mama got you a book entitled 'The Deep End'. It's about a little girl who's learning to face her fear of water by taking swimming lessons.

It's a really cute book because she and her toddler class imagine that the bigger kids actually swim into the sinkhole at the deep end, through a passage way underneath the streets where people live, before coming out on the other end into the sea.

We're not expecting you to be an Olympic champion but hopefully, you'll learn to be open about swimming lessons.

It's just water!

Old Friends, Nice Getaway

Dear Aidan,

Some time in August, we returned for our occasional visit to Poh-Poh's in KL. And while there, we did a new thing: We spent a few days at Grandma's and Grandpa's as well.

Mama has always been awkward about the idea of staying there because I'm so used to being in my home. I also don't like having to say No or disagree with old people and back in my home, my mum (Poh-Poh) understands me enough that we're both at peace around each other (apart from the occasional nagging from her - something you'll agree I do when you're a little older).  But this time, I told myself that Papa needed to be with his parents too as they too are getting on in age.

During our stay, you fell in love with one of Grandma's big bolsters. You name him Biggie and wanted to bring him everywhere, even the coffee shops.

Two happy bunnies with their Ribena

Decorating dessert with Aunty Anne's help

We managed to pay a visit to Aunty Anne and Jaden in between. And you really had a blast. First there was a yummy lunch of fried rice (made by Jaden's Amuma) and chicken drummettes in BBQ sauce. Then there was Ribena! And then! There was even cake! A lovely light Victoria sponge cake which Aunty Anne let you boys take turns icing and decorating with cream and strawberries. In between all the feasting, of course, was Jaden graciously sharing his toys and playing with you.

It was a really fun afternoon.



When we returned to Singapore, we took you to Sentosa Island for a short weekend break. Papa and  knew that we were soon going to leave for our own holiday to Bali and we wanted to make it up to you in advance.


You enjoyed playing on the beach, showering Papa's hair with mud and building little castles. What got you super excited, though, was the Skyride combined with The Luge, a toboggan-like ride down the slopes after ascending the hill on the open-air swing-on-a-pulley (essentially that's what the Skyride was to me!).

In fact, you loved it so much, we came back to Beach Road Station after dinner for a 3rd ride, just before they stopped the rides for the night.

Getting the shampoo in 

The Luge - The Ultimate Holiday Favourite

Just Papa and me...

You're beginning to settle from your pre-August phase of tantrums and whininess - well, you're still playing rough and throwing/kicking your toys sometimes despite many repetitive reminders, and for those, trips to the Corner are still taking place.

The Teachers at school have mentioned also that you're starting to be more protective of who you share your toys with when you used to be more generous. I know you like sharing with the bigger kids because, maybe, you trust them with your stuff more, but it's good to show the younger ones what sharing's all about.

Another thing I've noticed: You've begun to want back every single toy you offer to your friends (like Theo for example), just seconds after you've lent them away. What's not right is, you'd tell them they can play with something else and when they do and have fun doing it, you'd rush to take that back too, insisting that you now want to play with it.

When you're well-behaved though, you're really good! So when the chain of your first bike (Tornado) came undone for the final time, we didn't hesitate to get you a new 'Big-Boy' bicycle.  Well, it was also a gift to celebrate the half-way mark of your 3rd year on Planet Earth.

Meanwhile, here are more books that you're enjoying. (By the way, I love how you would suddenly realise I'm using story-time to help you recognise alphabets and their sounds because you'd turn around while sitting on my lap and ask, "Are you trying to make me learn, Mama?")

Fun classics from Mama's time