The Black Belt Journey 🥋

I've always love Taekwondo.

For ages, I'm amazed by the stunning kick patterns, self-defense techniques and the 5 Tenets of Taekwondo. However, I never had the chance to have a formal training when I was younger and my mom is worried that I'll be too masculine..lol😅

        

But anyways, allow me to share an official news on my blog today!😊

My 11yo son got his Taekwondo Black Belt (Ist Dan). Yeah, I am filled with joy & excitement and I would like to share my personal experience and thoughts on this Black Belt journey...

It's been a challenging but a rewarding process. Though there were some delays due to the pandemic restrictions earlier and a few failed gradings in the past, but my son pass his Black Belt grading on the first attempt. My family is overwhelmed by his performance and we are really proud of his accomplishment.

From Zero To Hero! (*White To Black Belt)

 

My son N, is very much a gentle and mellow kid. He isn't a huge fan of Martial Arts, Kung-Fu, Wu Shu that sort...In fact, he loves Science, Robotics and Music, but like many concerned parents, we are always worried that our kids might get bullied in school, so I encouraged him to learn Taekwondo as a form of self-protection and to boost his physical fitness. Quite frankly, I never expect him to get a Black Belt at this young age, but I'm grateful that he did and completed the course.

 

            

I still remember when he failed his grading at Green/Blue belt when he was about 8yo, it was emotional...I felt his sadness and disappointment. After all, no one likes to fail. At some point, we hesitated and even thought of giving up Taekwondo, especially when some of his friends started quitting at Green/Blue belt, but I told him NOT to give up! I want my children to be resilient with determination and perseverance, so I motivate him to continue the training...I believe in my son and I know he can do it!

 

As parents, it's important to show our full support and encouragement to our children and guide them to achieve their goals and dreams. Even if they take a little longer, we shouldn't just give up. A slow progress is still better than no progress!  I've been his biggest cheer leader in every Taekwondo gradings and I enjoyed these amazing experiences.

Life is full of challenges, setbacks and failure is part of life! It's OK to fail, but don't be afraid to try again. Sometimes, we have to push ourselves a little harder to discover our full potentials. 

I've learnt many tough life lessons and with an assertive personality today, I don't give up easily and I stand firm with integrity. 

 

Personally, I don't believe in quitting, unless there are valid reasons or special circumstances. When I started something new, a course, an assignment, a project or a goal etc..I will do my best to complete it with all my efforts.(but that's just me and my perspective.)

I'm glad my son took my advice and go all the way, he didn't quit even though every level gets tougher! Getting a Black Belt isn't easy for anyone, it takes a lot of hard work, practices and self-discipline to keep leveling up and earn the Black Belt.

Taekwondo improves agility, reflexes, and concentration. It boost stamina, confidence and built a stronger mentality. I notice many positive changes since my son started his Taekwondo journey. At times, we would practiced together on sparring, kicks, board-breaking with our training gears. It's our bonding and N will teach me some basic moves and self-defense maneuvers too. Well, I can do Chong-Ji and the turning side kicks. Pretty cool, right? 🤭

A Black Belt Is Born! :)

            

When I saw N wearing the Black Belt at the ceremony that day...Wow! it's beyond words can describe and deep emotions run through my mind. My little guy look so manly with his Black Belt around his waist. I feel safe and protected to have my personal "Body Guard" beside me.Lol..It's one of the greatest moments indeed and I'm really happy for him.🥰 

I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to his Masters / Trainers for the guidance, patience and hard work for the past few years.

The Black Belt journey has taught me some important life lessons. As long as you keep trying, be consistent and believe in yourself, you will get there! Nothing comes easy in life, without determination and willpower, there is no progression nor success. I firmly believe...The harder the battle, the sweetest the victory!

            

Keep Trying...Don't Let Yourself Down!

Perseverance is strength. When you set a new goal, stay committed with solidity and you will achieve a positive outcome.

 

We may not always be the fastest, the greatest or the most outstanding ones, but keep in mind that the tortoise won the race for its hard work and persistence.

 

In life, people may fail you, but Do NOT fail yourself! Success may take a while, but it's all worthwhile in the end! We made it when we refuse to quit and this remarkable journey has displayed the core values and the indomitable spirit of Taekwondo.😎

" A Black Belt Is A White Belt Who 

Never Quits! " 

 

Keep Training Hard...Taekwon! 👊

                

NDP NE Show 2022 - Stronger Together, Majulah! 🇸🇬

As a true blue Singaporean, I've always love the National Day Parade.(NDP)

The ambiance is mesmerizing, it feels ecstatic to watch live performances and there is a strong sense of nation pride and honor as we celebrate this special event with many fellow Singaporeans, singing the National Anthem and waving the Singapore flag as one united nation.

But darn! I didn't manage to get any NDP tickets again..It's been ages since I watched live NDP, but thankfully, my son who is in Primary 5 this year get to attend the NE Show. (*aka National Education Show)

The Lucky P5!

The previous NE show was cancelled due to Covid safety restrictions and...finally, after 2 years, the NDP is open to public (*ticket balloting) and the primary school children get to watch the NE Show live at The Float@Marina Bay.

            

Every year, the neitzens are excited about the design of the NDP Fun Pack and what's the goodies inside...

NE Show - NDP Fun Pack 2022 

So here's the NDP Fun Pack 2022. The items are pretty standard, but useful as always and the reusable tote bag is good quality. (My mom is going to love this for her grocery shopping!😄) 

Personally, I like the Merlion keychain most! I'm a keychain collector, it's something to keep as a memento and the chocolate cookies from Khong Guan taste pretty good too! Mmmm...

                 

My son enjoyed the live fireworks, he came home so eager to share the highlights of the event. I'm glad he had a wonderful time and a fun experience at the NE Show.

Here's an edited compilation video and random pictures captured from the mobile phones.(*Not the best video quality, but I love the fireworks and the cheers from the crowd!🥰)

                        

                      

                      

The National Day on 09 August is an annual grand event, a day we celebrate Singapore's independence, our nation milestones and achievements as we progress...

Singapore has been through so much challenges and adversity for the past few years since Covid in 2020. The battle against the virus isn't over yet, we are experiencing global recessions and inflations too, but I am sure we will get through this tough time together! I firmly believe...The storm will pass and the sun will rise again!

Every National Day, I get a little 'emotional' and there is a song that keeps ringing in my mind...

🎶"This is home...surely, as my senses tell me, this is where I won't be alone...and this is where I know it's home.."

Yeah! Home by Kit Chan is my all time favorite NDP song and I never get tired listening to this song, every National Day! 

It reminds me that Singapore is truly our home! Regardless our race, religions and any differences, we should stand hand in hand as One People, One Nation, One Singapore! 

           

Wait! Don't feel disappointed...

If you didn't get the NDP tickets, don't be upset! You can still join the Heartland Carnivals at the designated locations and watch live fireworks & performances and celebrate National Day with your family & loved ones!

Check out more information : NDP Heartland Carnivals 2022

                          (Scan to win vouchers & more)

Let us stay strong and be united always. Together, we can build a better and brighter future for our generations. Be resilient and roar like the lions! 

Stronger Together, Majulah!💖🇸🇬

                               

Why I Love Being A Mom - The Joy Of Motherhood 💖

       

                          

*A Special Blog For Mother's Day*

Motherhood is an incredible journey filled with discovery, immeasurable love and a chain of complex emotions. From conception, pregnancy and childbirth, these special moments are truly remarkable and beyond words...

Well, Motherhood doesn't come easy for me, it was an intense and dramatic journey...but thankfully, I FINALLY conceived my first child naturally, when my reproductive system decided to cooperate and 'activate' lol..and my 2nd child is a SG50 Jubilee Baby. The day I became a mother, marks the glorious moment of my life and I'm truly grateful for the gift of Motherhood. My children are my Sunshine and Happiness!🌞❤️

Despite many challenges and the unglamorous part of Motherhood, there are many wonderful moments and here's why...I Love Being A Mom :

1. Stronger and Positive Personality 💖
Being a mother has made me a better and stronger person. I didn't know I could multi-task and overcome all the challenges along the way. Raising a child is never easy, it's a long process that requires tons of patience, hard work and sacrifices. Motherhood has tap into my feminine side to be more empathetic, nurturing and compassionate towards people around me.

 

     

 

2. Being Their First Teacher🎓
Watching my kids grow everyday and unlock new milestones is a fulfilling experience. It's a sense of satisfaction to share my knowledge and teach my children about life and humanity. I am glad to be part of their life to encourage and inspire them to explore their strengths and potentials.

3. Joy and Laughter😄

Children brings joy and laughter into the family, they create a warm and lively ambience. Life is much interesting and meaningful with children around the house. They color my world and complete my life!

4. Strength and Motivation 💪
Some days were crazy and overwhelmed, but whenever I see their sweet smiles and happy faces, all the stress and exhaustions just disappear!

 

My children give me strength, courage and motivation to tackle the challenges in life. No matter what the situation is, I Will Prevail and I Never Quit! I want to be an example for my children to build a strong and assertive attitude to pursue their dreams and aspirations.

5. Free Unlimited Cuddles and Kisses 💋
Being cuddled and kissed is one of the best feeling in the world! My heart is full when my kids give me the biggest hugs! Their warm cuddles and sweet kisses are the best remedies on those long, hectic days.

              

6. Sweet and Cute Surprises 💝

I love children. I can't help it when they are so adorable, their innocent expressions, giggles and body movements are way too cute! I still remember my son love singing and doing the Barney dance when he was a toddler, it still makes me smile when I watched the old video clips. Ahh.. my daughter made me some snacks with a note the other day...These sweet little surprises warms my heart and made my day!

   

                 

7. Family Bonding 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

I enjoy spending time with my kids doing random activities. We love playground trips, watching cartoons, kite-flying, snuggle times and eating ice-creams together...and when my children dozed off in my arms, it feels blissful and comforting. These are the moments I live for..Priceless!

8. My Junior Versions 👦👧

They say my kids have my eyes and smiles, like a "Mini Mandy"😄 Yeah, I see similar personality but best of all, they both love Music and Art, just like their Mommy! It must be my creative genes, Daddy is so 'jealous'..Haha!😆

9. Gratitude and Appreciation🥰
I never knew how challenging and demanding Motherhood is, until I became a mother. I could relate and fully understand why my mom is always so anxious and tired...

All her nags make sense to me now. I have so much gratitude, admiration, respect for her strength and everything she has done for the family. Thanks Momma! 

10. Duties and Responsibility 👸
Motherhood is messy and exhausting! There are sleepless nights, endless cleanings, meltdowns, tears, worries and heartaches. At times, my kids made me really mad, frustrated and emotional, but no matter how tired I am and how despair I feel...I will do my best, I have no regrets and I wouldn't trade anything for Motherhood, it's one of the best gifts in life!

I believe as a Mother, it's my duty, responsibility and a promise to my children that I will always be there to support, protect and love them. They can always count on Mommy!😊

                   

 A Mother's Love Is Instinctual, Unconditional and Infinity...  Appreciate The Beauty Of New Life and Celebrate The Joy Of Motherhood!🌷

 

                       

                                      

To all the amazing & beautiful Moms out there..Have a lovely Mother's Day Weekend!  💗💐

✅ Self-Care Tips For Moms

Ok Mommies, now that the kids are back to school, you deserve some 'me-time' to relax and revitalize! Parenting is a lot of hard work, commitments, responsibilities and the list goes on...

This year, I can finally have more time for myself when both my kids are in the same school. For parents who have a Jubilee baby (SG50), I'm sure you were feeling anxious and excited for their first day in primary school. (I took lots of photos & videos on that special day!😊) My daughter is adapting well and make many new friends, I'm glad she didn't cry and she enjoy going to school with her elder brother.

Having the extra hours to myself is a luxury of freedom that I've been waiting for so long...Well, if you have a helper/nanny, grandparents, in-laws or any relatives who can help you out with the little ones, (lucky you!) you probably won't resonate my excitement, but for many moms like myself who are literally the sole caregiver for our kids with no helper, no in-laws/guardians and a hubby who works long hours/oversea etc..(I feel you and I'm so proud of you..Well done, Mommies!) You gotta' give yourself credits for the versatility and multi-tasking! Nonetheless, all mothers deserve the recognition for the unconditional love and sacrifices for the family.👍

The lunar new year festive is the busiest time for moms and the current outbreak narrative is intoxicating and disheartening. It greatly affect our emotions and morale, so it's important that we practice daily self-care to maintain healthy physical & mental well-being.

Here are some Self-Care Tips / Ideas and my personal advice for busy Moms :

1. Be Organised. (Plan Your Time)

It's never easy balancing work and family life, but with proper time management and good habits, you can get the jobs done on schedule.

Prioritize the important/urgent tasks and set a daily/weekly routine for work, kids, couple time, family bonding, house chores, etc..A routine will guide you to manage the daily tasks productively. 

Don't overwork. The truth is, work will never end! Always spend quality time with your children and your partner at the end of the day.

For me, my children comes first and my family will always be my top priority. I am grateful that I am financially stable, I prefer to work for myself, to have the flexibility to schedule my work at my own pace, doing things that I desire!

2. Take Catnap.(30 - 45 mins)

A power nap during mid-day is a great booster, it allows our body & mind to relax and recharge in a hibernate mode. When we have enough rest, we feel refreshed, more energetic and function better. Happiness is an afternoon nap! 💤

3. Eat Well & Drink More Water. (Enjoy Your Favorite Food)

Food are great pleasure and comfort! Good food brings good mood! When I have a busy schedule with writing assignments and zoom sessions, I hardly have time to sit down comfortably to enjoy a warm, decent meal. It's usually a quick bite or instant food,lol..But now, I can have long, undisturbed lunch, enjoying my flower tea and eating my favorite sushi in my Snoopy pajamas!😅

4. Talk To A Friend. (Call, Text, Facetime!)

Deep conversations/chatting with a good friend is heartwarming..You'll feel much better after you talk it out and release your emotions. Everyone needs a good listener, someone who is supportive, who understand the situations and never judge. If you have a dear friend who is willing to listen to your endless rants with patience and kindness, cherish that special bond & friendship, true friends are blessings!

5. Beauty Routines. (Look Good For Yourself!)

Pamper yourself and be nice to your body. Take a long bath, style up your hair or wear a new outfit! Looking good makes you feel great and confident. In my opinion, fashion and grooming shouldn't stop when you become a mother and every mom can look her best! "Mommy, when is the last time you paint your nails? do your make-up? and visit the spa/salons?" Maybe it's time to indulge and shower yourself some tender loving care. 😘

6. Listen To Music.(Sing, Dance, TikTok!)

Music is the best therapy! It creates a fun and lively ambiance. Whenever I feel under the weather, I would sing out loud, make random Tiktok videos, play my Ukulele / Guitar and it makes me feel better instantly. Like a magic pill, music never fails to brighten up my day! 🌞

       

I firmly believe that Music has the power to inspire, to heal and to connect our deep emotions. Through many tough times and struggles as a mother, music is always there for me and it's been a huge part of my life now..I guess you can't go wrong with music! 😎

7. Stay Calm and Control Your Emotions. (Protect Your Peace!)

Random topics, news, events and people may trigger some tensions and conflicts. Keep your cool and chill! Be wise and walk away from bad vibes and drama. Be selective, don't fight battles that don't matter! Not everything requires your reaction and attention. Sometimes, PEACE is better than being right!

It's Okay To Not Be Okay...

Motherhood is exhausting, demanding and a relentless journey, some days are intense and insane! 

But it's normal to experience negative emotions, frustrations, disappointments and meltdowns... but remember, DO NOT trap yourself in a 'mental prison'. Divert your thoughts, visions and focus on the positivity in every situation. The bad days will pass! 

    

Listen to your body and don't be too hard on yourself. Don't feel guilty if you can't do everything in a day, it's never selfish to take a break and rest...You don't need to be a Wonder Woman to save the world! We are only humans, it's OK to take one step at a time.

You are in charge of your own happiness! Self-care is much needed in our drastic lifestyle today, it is imperative that mothers need to replenish physical & emotional energy in order to provide the best care for the family. 

            

Be kind to yourself and take time to do what makes you happy. Make Self-care a priority every day! 🥰

"Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Much!"❤

What's your daily self-care tips? Share with me and comment below! 😉

(*Disclaimer : The information provided on this blog is based on personal experience and for reference purposes. No medical advice intended. Please consult your local healthcare physicians for diagnosis and medical treatments - Mommywarrior77)