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Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts

30 May 2020

Tips To Save Money & Spend Wisely๐Ÿ’ฐ




Do you feel anxious every time you look at your bank account and sometimes wonder, where did the money go? ๐Ÿค”๐Ÿ’ธ

Let's face it! We live in one of the most expensive cities in the world. We all know money is so important. We need money for food, utilities, transports, education, essential stuff and the list goes on.

It doesn't matter how much money you make, if you don't know how to manage your financial and control your spending habits, you'll end up being broke all the time, or worst, heavily in debts! 


The economy is badly affected by the global outbreak, many have lost their jobs and businesses are closing down, there are many uncertainty ahead...Therefore, saving for a rainy day is necessary because you never know when an emergency may strike. A reserved / emergency fund (saving) could comes in handy to tide over the difficult times.

The most common problem that causes debt, is BAD spending habits. Unfortunately, many people spent more than they earn, hence, they fail to save at all when they overspent every month! That is a serious matter and a nasty habit that leads to financial problems.



I'm not a financial expert. I know it's not always easy to save up, especially for those who have lower incomes or doesn't have a fixed salary, but the biggest obstacle is getting started! Yes, it takes some efforts and a good saving strategy, but you need to take the first step and let it roll. Don't stress over how little you save, as long as you start, your saving will grow gradually.


Here are some tips that may help you save money :

1. Limit your spending
Always set a budget on how much money you can spend per month and do NOT exceed the limit. That gives you a guideline on your monthly spending pattern.



2. Don't carry too much cash
Digital payment like PayLah, PayNow, GrabPay and GooglePay are very convenient these days. When you carry too much cash, chances are you may be tempted to spend unnecessarily. 

3. Avoid using credit cards
Stop swiping the credits cards for every purchase. Keep them at home. (Use it only when it's necessary) It's all about self-discipline. Use the ATMs and debit cards instead.

4. Pay all your bills on time
Avoid late/overdue payments and always pay your bills in full. It's easier to track your spending and monthly expenses. This will prevent the outstanding bills to snowball and late fees charges.

5. Keep coin banks
I have a few coin banks around the house, I teach my kids the importance of saving money and it's always better to start saving when you are young. Save the coins and don't underestimate those piggy banks. My last coin deposit credited over $300 worth of coins.


6. Avoid impulsive buying
Maybe you really love that dress, the sneakers or that limited edition watch, but wait for a week or two, you may change your mind. We sometimes buy things that we don't really need or rarely use, and that is a waste of money. Go for values instead of the big brands.

7. Take public buses / trains
You don't need to take a cab every day unless you are rushing for urgent appointments, feeling unwell and carry bulky stuff etc.. Buses and trains still take you from Point A to Point B. It's much cheaper and convenient too.

8. Garage sale
Sell away things you don't need, perhaps an old TV, the golf clubs or a bicycle that is sitting in the store for years. List them on free classified ads or sell them at cash converters, it's a great way to generate some cash and de-clutter the house.

9. Don't try to impress others
Don't go broke trying to look rich! What's the point of driving a posh car with an empty bank account?


10. Take good care of your health
Do some exercise, eat well and stay healthy. That could save you the clinic trips and doctors fees.


*BONUS TIPS* 
Invest carefully and wisely
Before you invest anything, do some homework and market research. Be careful with investment plans or packages that 'promise' rewards/profits/interests that sounds too good to be true. Never sign anything when you have doubts. Online scams and con-artists are everywhere, don't be the next victim and risk all your hard-earned money.

If you need help or advice to manage your debts, check out this link for more information.

Keep in mind that it is never too late to start saving. Money do not save on its own unless you do it! 

Set realistic saving plans/goals. Even if you only manage to save $10 a month, do it anyway because it is still better than saving none. The flowers doesn't bloom overnight, be patient, keep moving and let the saving grow...๐ŸŒฑ



Whether you are saving up to buy a new car, a new house, for college or retirement, etc.. Saving money doesn't mean you have to live a super frugal lifestyle and feel miserable everyday.


You can still enjoy your favorite Ice-creams at Swensen's and your Cappuccinos at Starbucks as long as you manage your financial well, take control of your money and spend within your budget.


The fundamental of saving is to earmark for emergencies, unexpected expenses, financial freedom, staying debt-free and other long-term plans for the future.



Cultivate good habits and motivate yourself to save for a rainy day even when the sun is shining... Start saving today! 


Do you have any personal tips on saving money? Share your comments below.๐Ÿ˜‰



28 March 2019

What's In Your Bag, Mommy? ๐Ÿ‘œ๐Ÿ’—


Have you ever wonder why do Mummies carry a big bag when they are out with the little ones? 

Children are messy, they are very active, maybe a little clumsy too, they are curious about everything and always eager to explore... Sometimes, they get all dirty while eating, playing, running around and they may even get hurt during outdoor activities...

So if you have a child below 5 years old, I do think it is still necessary to bring the Mummy Bag along but don't worry, the good news is...the bag gets lighter as the kids grow older. (Thank goodness!)


My hubby often teased me for being a 'Doraemon', (Say whaat?!..๐Ÿ™„) I'm sure everyone knows the Robot Cat, Doraemon who has everything in his magic pocket. Well yeah, I guess my bag has almost everything too. Anyways, I don't mind such nickname since Doraemon is pretty adorable, witty and intelligent too. How appropriate, dear! ๐Ÿ˜



My son is 8 this year and my daughter is 3.5yo now, she doesn't need the stroller anymore so I use a regular tote bag or a sling bag to put all the important stuff whenever I take them out. Well, you'll never know when you need those things and I feel more secure when I have these precious items in my bag all the time.


My friends always feel safe when Mama 'Doraemon' is around. Haha! Nah...I don't really care if people laughed at me for carrying all this stuff because I'd rather be teased at, than rushing to the nearest convenience store just to grab some wet wipes, medicated cream or plasters that you desperately need them immediately...and what if there is no pharmacy or a mini-mart anywhere near you!๐Ÿ˜ฑ Oh no... I may start to panic so I would avoid such anxiety and unnecessary drama. 


I believe the mothers would definitely feel more safe and secure when we have these handy items in our Mummy Bag anytime we need them and I prefer to call it "A Bag Of Love." 






...So these are what I have in my bag :


☑️ Wet Wipes + Tissues 
Practice good hygiene is so important. No parents would want the kids to get sick because it's a nightmare taking care of an unwell and cranky child. These are compulsory items in my bag, they are very handy when you can't find a washroom nearby or during picnics and outdoor activities. 


☑️ Sanitizer
Germs are everywhere. It's always good to keep your hands clean. This is one of the top items that I MUST have everywhere I go. Sometimes, I even bring two bottles just in case I lost it!


☑️ Repellent Patch + Citronella Oil
Mosquito bites are nasty! I bring these along because we do a lot of outdoors activities quite often. I always bring extra so I can share it with my friends or give it to anyone who needs it. Buzz off, Mozzies!


☑️ Water Bottles
I always remind the kids to drink more water. Our body needs H2O to stay healthy and hydrated.


☑️ Light Jacket / Sweater / Extra Clothings / Caps 
I pack a set of extra clothing and jackets only when we are out the whole day but if it's only a few hours outing or shopping trips,etc.. I just bring their caps along.


☑️ Disposable Raincoat 
I never like to carry an umbrella...I prefer disposable raincoats and they are very useful on rainy days. 


☑️ Recycle Bag
Sometimes, we drop by to the library to borrow some books and I may need to get some groceries on the way home so I always bring 1 or 2 recycle shopping bags. They are light, waterproof and eco-friendly too.๐Ÿ‘


☑️ Medicated Oil / Antiseptic Cream / Vicks / Plasters
I bring these along just in case...I hope we don't need to use them.


☑️ Kids Cologne
Who doesn't like to smell fresh and pleasant all day...


☑️ Portable Rechargeable Fan
It's really hot out there! I need the fans because my kids perspire easily and sometimes they get moody when the weather is too hot. We have Summer throughout the year, in Singapore!


☑️ Snacks
My daughter loves snacking. The snacks help to distract and comfort her when she whines! They are my lifesaver!Lol..But too much snacking is bad, so get only healthy snacks! 


☑️ Pocket Toys
These mini puzzles keep them entertained during long bus rides. I rarely bring electronics devices when we are out because I don't want the kids to be addicted and expose too much screen time. Actually, these toys are pretty cool and fun too. I really love them! 



As you can see, almost all the items in the Mummy Bag are for our little ones. The children are always the priorities, therefore, the Mummy Bag becomes a part of our regular accessories... So please don't fuss or laugh at the Mummies for packing all these stuff because we do it all for LOVE...just making sure the kids are well and safe always!


Hey Mummies, did I miss out any precious items? Let me know what other things you have, in your bag of love...๐Ÿ˜‰

Till then...Happy Mothering! ๐Ÿ’—


Blogger Mommywarrior77

28 February 2019

Love Builds A Happy Home ❤️๐Ÿก


I love children.

I've always dreamed of having a big family with lots of kids around the house. I love their innocent minds and purest hearts. Their lovely smiles and funny giggle always warms my heart! ๐Ÿ˜


Raising a kid here in Singapore is pretty expensive, so two is just perfect for me and I'm very thankful to be blessed with 2 beautiful kids in my life. I admit I'm not the most patient mum in the world, but I'll always protect them, love them with all my heart and provide them the best I could. That is my promise, my responsibility to my children and I'll never break that promise!



Some days, my kids made me really upset and drive me nuts, but as a mother, you'll always see the beauty in them and forgive them anyway. No mothers I know would ever hold grudges against their own children.


Hence, parenting is a challenging journey. Personally, I feel that every child is unique in their own ways so I wouldn't want to compare them with anyone and I don't follow a fixed formula in parenting because a lot of answers are never found in books. To me, it's all about trial & error and being flexible for your child's needs, but that's just my opinion.



I'm sharing some thoughts on family life and parenting today because I feel strongly for my close friends (mothers too) who shared with me how tired and frustrated they are, to manage everything alone when their husband is at work or out of town for months. I could relate to how they feel because my hubby works long hours too, sometimes, I feel so exhausted doing the endless house chores and mothering the kids at the same time. 


There are days when I am so busy with the kids and my online biz that I hardly have much time to blog. Most days, I only get a few hours of sleep. (But that's fine, I don't sleep a lot anyway.lol)


It gets worse when you are unwell and didn't have time to rest when you don't have any source of help near you.. No nanny, helper, in-laws, grandparents or someone you trust to help you out... Can you imagine how crazy and stressful it is, with zero help?... Homemakers are not made of steel, we need rest too, like everyone else!


All I could do was give my friends hugs for comfort and support. Lend them my ears to listen, whenever they want to vent their frustrations and unhappiness. 


Besides the struggle...Do you realize that Mothers are always the ones who get judged and blamed? It is no wonder they are so stressed out and emotionally drained when they get judged almost everything...ALL THE TIME!


Say for example, when the kids misbehaved, show bad manners and attitude or get into some troubles, everyone starts pointing fingers at the mothers but rarely at fathers. Hmmm, but isn't parenting suppose to be a teamwork?... Well, I don't think it's right to blame only the Mums for bad parenting. Ah yes! I know Dads are the sole breadwinners, they work very hard every day to provide for the family, but a Daddy's role is equally important in parenting.


Actually, I have seen some good Daddies around lately. I think the new-age Dads are very cool! I must say I'm really impressed by how dedicated and devoted some fathers are. 



I once heard a Daddy singing "Baby Shark" to his toddler on a long bus ride, even when he sang out of tune, lol..I still think that was really sweet! Men are often viewed as a muscular and manly figure, so when a Dad sings a kid song or nursery rhymes to his child in public...Wow! You got my attention, Mister! Thumbs up, Daddy! ๐Ÿ‘ 


I feel that in order to build a happy family, both Mummies and Daddies have to be involved in parenting because they are the ones who shape the kid's personalities and the person they grow up to be.


My point is, parenting is a team effort! It is never only the Mummy's or Daddy's duty to do certain roles, it's all about supporting each other and teaching the children the right things as parents. 


Keep in mind that your spouse is your life partner, not a slave or a machine, it's not humanly possible for anyone to take all the roles in parenting alone. Do not take anyone or anything for granted. Your partner needs support, your attention, understanding and appreciation too. 



The children are your labor of love..Therefore, both Mummy and Daddy play the most important roles in the parenting journey. Kids learn from their parents, always! When you show love, respect and kindness to others. Chances are, your kids are more likely to follow the same way you did and become loving adults in the years to come.


Parenting is never easy because we all have emotions and bad days too, that is why you need support from your partner when you feel emotional or need some time-out! In my opinion, there is no perfect parenting nor a perfect family, only responsible parents who work hand in hand together. 



A warm and happy family isn't built overnight, it takes years, a lot of patience and hard work from both parents...But together, you can build a happy family so long as you work as a team... and happy home, raise happy kids! ๐Ÿ‘ฆ๐Ÿ‘ง

Let me know what's your thoughts on Parenting / Parenthood? 

Happy Parenting, Mummies & Daddies! ๐Ÿ˜˜ 

Blogger Mommywarrior77

30 October 2018

The Pride Of Motherhood ๐Ÿ‘ฉ๐Ÿ’“


Motherhood.

If you're a Mum, you know the struggle is REAL and the journey of Motherhood isn't always a smooth-sailing ride... I overheard a conversation the other day and I'll share my personal thoughts on Motherhood.

I am sure we have seen and heard many debates on Working Mums (WM) vs Stay-At-Home Mums (SAHM) and the battle never seems to end...


Personally.. I think such debates are pointless and quite silly because at the end of the day, we did it for our kids and the family so what's the purpose of proving which group gets more credits, we aren't earning for brownies or rewards points, are we? lol ๐Ÿ˜



In my opinion.. I feel that as mothers, we should help and support one another instead of attacking, shaming and judging. If you are a working mum, it's cool to bring the bacon home, if you are a stay at home mum, that's wonderful to witness every precious milestone of your child each day.


My point is...Respect the roles of both group of Mothers. I have many friends who are working mums and I love them like sisters and as a stay/work at home mum myself, we face many challenges too and not every SAHM live a Tai-Tai (aka rich lady) lifestyle...and yes! I do understand the work stress for working mums as well..My friends complained to me all the time about their work projects,  long hours, frequent meetings and the nasty office politics they deal with everyday but stay at home mums have tons of endless housework and they hardly have any me-time for themselves, they don't get paid for doing everything, they got ZERO welfare, they have to deal with the cruel criticism and unfair judgement from the public as well. 


Indeed..Motherhood is a tough journey for both working mums and stay at home mums but it should NEVER be a competition or humiliation. I really think all mothers (SAHMs and WMs) deserve Equal credits, respect and recognitions in the society.


Just to share...years ago, a single lady in her 40s once asked me..."M, what do you do at home all day? Wow! honestly, I felt really pissed at that moment and I think that was kinda' rude.. I wonder why did she even asked when she already knew what SAHM does! But yes..we don't go to work like the office lady and getting a paycheck every monthly but we are not sitting all day, munching chips and catching Korean dramas.Lol! We are equally busy taking care of the kids everyday, making sure that they are well & fed and running the daily errands. 


It's really sad that people are so shallow and judgmental these days. 
No offense and pardon me but I wonder how does she feel when someone asked why isn't she married at her age. Ahh.. there you see! Sensitive and tactless questions like this are totally uncalled for and it only tigger tensions and unhappiness so it's best to zip up especially when people can't relate to the situations. 



Well..It's always easy to judge and make senseless remarks on others when they can't relate what Motherhood is all about and a mother's role in the family.. Say for example, if someone who can't cook or doesn't clean up the house, how can they truly understand and relate to the exhaustion from fixing meals for the family and doing the housework everyday?..What about pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding? Hey, not even a dad can relate that..just saying, Lol! So it really does take a mother to understand a mother! Period.

I hate to judge without knowing the truth, but that's me! Besides, it's really none of anyone's business whatever the decisions the mothers made for the family. Every household has different needs and demands. There is no standard formula in motherhood so why is there a need to compare who is better?




Here's a cool video that every mothers / parents should watch. Perhaps many have seen it before and I think it's one of the best motherhood advertisement that I have seen so far that speak a thousand words with a positive punch!๐Ÿ‘




Motherhood is messy, crazy, tiring, stressful, exciting, rewarding and this list go on.. The last thing any mother need is someone making hurtful remarks to belittle and attack them. 


The next time you ask such questions..think about how others feel and how YOU feel when someone ask you a sensitive question back, if words that may sound hurtful and unkind..Don't do it! because those words that are spoken can never be erased! It's never cool to go around insulting and mocking mothers or anyone so it's wise to think before you speak. Learn to speak with respect, kindness and intelligence, that way you'll make a friend instead of an enemy.



I have the highest respect for many strong mothers that I've met, both working mums and stay at home mums. At the end of the day, we all play the SAME role of a mother. Please do not feel worthless just because you don't bring money home for the family and don't feel guilty for working during the weekends. You Are Still A Good Mum, Remember that!๐Ÿ˜Ž  




Whatever the choice is..be proud of your role as a mother. Keep in mind that we do NOT have to live in the opinions of others. 
While the battle will still continue I'm sure, but allow me to speak with the pride of a mother. Thank you.๐Ÿ˜˜

*Remark : This blog is specially dedicated to all the amazing mothers / Mommy Warriors for their hard work and sacrifices for the family. Love you Mums! ๐Ÿ’•

Blogger Mommywarrior77


07 June 2018

Before Saying...I Do! ๐Ÿ’



Not long ago, I was invited to a private group interview on the topic "Successful Marriage". For the record, I have been married for over a decade and counting...(*but I'm not old btw..) ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜„ I guess I'm qualified to offer my humble advise and thoughts on this very popular discussion.

During the interview, the host asked.....

"What is your best advise for people who are getting married and the newlyweds..."




...and I replied,


In my opinion, a Marriage is much more than just a paper and the marital status. When you decided to marry that special someone, you do not just married to the love of your life, you married to his/her family as well.

Trust me, that is a fact! I believe those who have been married for many years would agree with me, that is why building a successful Marriage isn't easy because there will be many unhappy, tacky situations and new challenges along the way that could involve your spouse's family, eg; siblings, relatives, etc.. that unfortunately may effect your relationship when couples start having disagreements and disputes over family matters.You may have a hard time blending into the family and you will be exhausted playing the Angel all the time when your spouse's family don't even appreciate your efforts in the end, so married life isn't as simple as it looked.  

I am NOT an expert in Marriage advise but I will share my perspective on Marriage / Married Life based on my personal experience for the readers as a general reference.☺


Before you propose and say I do......


1) Never rush to get married! Don't feel pressure to marry because you feel lonely, unhappy being single or your parents keep nagging at you. Marriage Is A Lifetime Commitment. It is better to marry later than married to the wrong person. 



People said, "Love Is Blind". Indeed..lovers can be 'blinded' when they are madly in love, people do get impulsive and married too early and then regret later. So give yourself sufficient time to know the person better and his/her family as well.




2) Avoid staying too near or living together with your in-laws. You can always bring the kids to visit your in-laws every weekly/monthly or as often as you want and it is so convenient to travel around any part of the country. Personally, I would prefer NOT to stay too close or living together with my in-laws because it can cause some inconvenience, unnecessary stress and tensions living under one roof. Besides, I need my privacy! Lol๐Ÿ˜

When we talk about in-laws, it doesn't only refer to the Father/Mother-in-law alone, that also include the unmarried sister/brother-in-law who are still living together with the parents. These are the people who may gossip / badmouth you and create many family dramas because they could be jealous and feeling insecure when they see you as a Threat in the family, especially when you are intelligent, vocal and outshine them in many aspects. So if you do have a choice, be wise and distance yourself from those nasty in-laws! They are one of the Biggest deal breaker imo.

3) Always protect your loved ones. Do NOT let anyone bully your spouse and children. If you know your spouse/children is right, speak up and stand by them. Remember, silence isn't always golden! Your spouse deserve all the respect in the family. He/she doesn't have to put up with the nonsense and be treated unfairly. Always Do What Is Right! A strong family is one who stays united.๐Ÿ’—๐Ÿ‘จ‍๐Ÿ‘ฉ‍๐Ÿ‘ง‍๐Ÿ‘ฆ 

4) Choose your battles. Put down your ego. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose..Hey, it's no big deal!๐Ÿ˜Ž You don't have to win all the time, there is no medal for winning anyway, Haha!..and Marriage isn't a competition. It is silly to fight over small matters, don't let those minor things effect your Marriage/relationship, it's just not worth it!

 
5) Mutual respect and good communication is extremely important in a healthy, successful Marriage. Without communication and respect, I don't think any Marriage / Relationships can survive in a long run and it may lead to many serious problems later. Make some efforts to communicate daily. Have a heart-to-heart talk with your spouse often. Listen when he/she speak, do not interrupt or judge anything. Do acknowledged that everyone have different emotions on each situations..Be a good listener and be supportive. Praises and compliments never harm.๐Ÿ˜˜๐Ÿ‘

6) Keep the Fire burning..it doesn't matter how long you are married. Don't forget to groom yourself, hit the gym or do some sports to keep fit. Put some efforts on your physical appearance and dressings.When you look good, you feel good inside and out, it boost your charm and confidence big time! (*Speaking from my own experience.LOL!๐Ÿ˜)


Don't forget couple time.๐Ÿ’ Always make time for your spouse. Romance is very important in a Marriage. Be creative and spontaneous. Why not start dating your wife/husband again? You could get someone you trust to babysit your kids and go out on a date with your spouse. Perhaps a romantic candle-light dinner, midnight movies, supper or evening strolls at the beach under the stars...Who doesn't like sweet surprises, right?๐Ÿ˜˜



Marriage is a teamwork. It takes two to tango.. NEVER take anyone or anything for granted! A happy and successful Marriage need to be nurtured with a lot of hard work, sacrifices, patience, understanding and consistent commitments from both husband and wife.๐Ÿ‘ซ

......Whenever I see old loving couples holding hands strolling at the park, my heart melts with warmness and sweetness. They have proven to the world that True Love does exist!...๐Ÿ˜†๐Ÿ˜„๐Ÿ’•


Blogger Mommywarrior77

20 April 2018

The Cyber Generation ๐ŸŒŽ



Last week, I attended an interesting workshop on Cyber Wellness and met Mr Jim Lim, the speaker for the workshop. Personally, I think it is one of the best workshop that I have attended in the recent years. 


Jim is a friendly, humorous and intellectual speaker and his workshop is helpful, informative and engaging. I promise you won't doze off in his 4hrs+ workshop. I now have a better idea to guide my children as they grow into their teens and adulthood in years to come. 

We are in the Cyber Generation and Internet is part of our life..Hence, the trend, the temptations and the contents from the net influenced the mind and the overall well-being of the child when they are exposed to the Internet everyday. It is important for parents to be involved and bond with our children to help them understand about Internet safety and their curiosity as they grow.

I am amazed and inspired by his speech in this workshop. Jim who is also an experienced social worker have met many people / families from different walks of life, he shared many real life stories and his perspectives on Parenting.

We all know that Parenting is not an easy journey because there is No fixed or right formula. There will be tears, heartaches, anxiety but alot of joy along the way and from time to time, we need to experience many trial-and-error to understand what works the best for our children because every child is different and unique in their own ways.

As a parent myself and a mother of two, I am a protective and a strict Mom. However, unlike the majority, I am not one who focus too much on academic and good grades, because I believe life isn't only about having good grades. 

As much as I want my children to have a bright future and be successful in life but I wouldn't want my children to be top scholars but failed in morality, humanity and social skills/EQ. I want my kids to experience their life journey and to overcome the different challenges ahead and if they fall, I want them to learn to get back on their feet and keep moving forward but a stronger and wiser person each time they fall.

With all due respect, I strongly agree that good and proper education is very important for our generation and the human race. Knowledge Is Power! Without a strong educational foundation and support, there wouldn't be doctors, scientists and lawyers today!

Well..I'm not a big fan of books but if I will spent 12 bucks to get this book and to blog about it, it's definitely a great book that I would recommend to my friends and other parents, especially those who have an open and flexible mentality on Parenting.

The world is a crazy and hazard place, with shocking news everyday. Power, Violence, Fame, Fear, Greed, Lust and the list go on..Though we can't stop all the negativeness around the world but we can educate and guide our younger generation into the right path to shape our world a better place.๐ŸŒŽ

Life is an exciting journey and Parenting is our responsibility! Teach our young the right and humane way of life, to build a better future for mankind.

For love, compassion and peace!❤


Blogger Mommywarrior77