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! 👊

                

Fun Things To Do At Home 💡

An outbreak sucks! 😷

Since early this year, the world is dealing with a major health crisis and I know it's been a very stressful time for everyone.

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused a lot of stress, fear, anxiety everywhere, it also caused many destruction and inconvenience in our daily lives. 

Some countries are lockdown, schools are closed, we see panic buying and social distancing etc...With so much tensions around, people are staying indoors now, outings and travel plans are not encouraged. Mass/group activities and social events are either cancelled or suspended and the next thing you find yourself 'grounded' at home and nowhere to go!

I'm outdoorsy, so it's kinda miserable to be stucked at home all weekends.(I miss playing Basketball and Jamming with my UkerManics) but looking at the current situation, it make sense to stay at home and avoid crowded places as a precaution.

Though the Covid-19 has put humanity to a big challenge, but looking on the bright side, it may be a great opportunity to improve relationships and strengthen family bonds.

Here's a list of fun things for you and your family to beat boredom.

Fun Things To Do At Home :

Play Board Games

Ok Mummies and Daddies, it's time to put away your phones/laptops and get on the floor to play some games with the kids. I love board games, it's fun, entertaining and it reminds me of my childhood, "Who's turn to roll the dice, now?"

Declutter The House
With the nasty virus out there, it's good to keep the house clean and tidy everyday! I have been doing a lot of spring cleaning this week. You can clean up the refrigerator, kitchen cabinets, reorganize books/toys shelves, changing the bedsheets/curtains, cleaning out the closets and donate some unwanted stuff to the charity or the garang guni.

Baking /Cooking Time

Get the little helpers to bake some cookies, muffins, making sushi rolls, homemade pizza or simply trying out new recipes.

Art & Craft

You can do simple DIY projects with the kids. It's so cool to make your own jewelry & keychains as gifts.

Read Books or Magazines

Reading is a great pastime but I prefer magazines though.lol

Take A Bubble Bath or A Power Nap

It's OK to relax & recharge...and a glass of wine shouldn't harm. Cheers!

Netflix and Chill

Let's not forget the beloved spouse. Couple time is very important in every relationship. Dim the lights please! 😄

Write A Song or A Poem

Dedicate your work to a friend or to someone special. 

Play An Instrument

Playing the Ukulele everyday lighten up my mood. You can practise your piano, guitar or drums, etc.. just enjoy and have fun!

Call Your Bffs

Instead of texting and chatting on the phone. Try FaceTime or video chats but do avoid gossips and spreading rumours. (Positive vibes ok?) 

Family Karaoke Time

Singing out loud can reduce stress. Get the kids to sing their favorite Disney songs and parents can sing along too.

Movie Nights

Watch your favorite movies together as a family. Comedies, horrors, animation, korean drama whatever...but don't forget the chips and popcorn!!! 

Home Workout

If you can't hit the gym for now. Try indoor exercise, like skipping, hula hoop or sit ups, etc..you can still have a good sweat, even at home.

Dance

If you feel like dancing, why not practice your favorite K-pop dance moves? (chumchu ja) Keep grooving!

Home Manicure/Pedicure

Try different colors and designs on your nails or try out a new beauty face mask. Pamper yourself because you deserve it!

Listen To Favorite Music

Music is a great therapy! Put on your headphones and feel the beats...

Indoor Gardening

If you love plants, you can grow some herbs and build a mini home garden.

Online Shopping

I'm an active online shopper! I love online shopping because it save time and it's so convenient! I'm glad I can get almost everything I need, without stepping out of the house. So ladies, go get that dress and the stiletto!

Spend Time With Your Pets

While bonding with family is important but don't forget to cuddle your pets and give them some attentions. Pets are family too.

For those who are serving the LOA (Leave Of Absence)/SHN (Stay-Home-Notice) for 2weeks Home Quarantine/Self-Isolation etc... Please hang in there, do your part and stay at home. Keep your spirits up and try to keep yourself occupied at home, the 2 weeks quarantine order will soon pass... 

It's perfectly normal to panic, feel worried and scared during such crisis but we have to remind ourselves to remain calm, be prepared and stay positive during this difficult time. I believe if everyone stand hand in hand, we can overcome this together and.......
Storms Don't Last Forever!

Let's all be social responsible, practice good hygiene and stay united always...Peace! 💗 #SGUnited

Things You Should Never Say To A Mom 🚫

Motherhood is challenging and stressful. Whether you are a new mom or an experienced mom, we all know it's never easy to raise a child. There will be struggles, tears and sacrifices... Being a mother is fulfilling but it's also a strenuous job, both emotionally and physically.


Words are powerful weapons and the last thing a mom need is someone making her feel bad about herself. 


Give the mother some support, words of encouragement instead of criticism and judgments. So before you make a remark, try to avoid insensitive, unkind and hurtful phrases that may upset the mothers.


Things You Should Never Say To Moms :

"You look so tired."

Mothers are tired. Especially those with newborns or younger children without any helpers or nannies/in-laws/childcare, etc. Most mothers don't get enough sleep every day. They are always busy attending to their kids, cleaning up the house, fixing meals and running daily errands, etc. Whether you are a stay-at-home mom or working moms, there are days you don't look your best. There is no need to remind them how tired or messy their hair looks.


"When are you having another child?"

Having a child is a personal decision. There are many important things to consider when you are planning for another baby.  

Whenever someone asks me to try for #3, I floored! (Are you serious?) Yes! I love children but that doesn't mean I want a 'dozen' lol. When I think about pregnancy, the awful morning sickness and the horrible contractions. Oh no! I am very sure I'm done with childbirth. Two is just enough. Thank you very much! 😁


"You should breastfeed longer..."
Breastfeeding is exhausting and it's not always easy for mothers. It can be quite embarrassing when the milk leaks in public and sometimes you can't find a nursing room to feed your hungry baby, so it's not always convenient to breastfeed on demand. 

We know 'Breast Is Best' but there are many valid reasons why some mothers don't breastfeed longer, we should respect their decisions and STOP mom-shaming. It is OK to give the baby formula, that doesn't make you are a bad mother. I breastfeed for 15months, though it isn't very long, but I think I did fine. 


"Why are your kids so skinny/chubby...What did you feed them?" 
Oh my gosh! This is one of the most annoying and rude remarks to a mother. Not all children eat anything that is served on the table. Many kids are fussy and picky eaters. I am sure all mothers feed their children with nutrition because we want our children to grow strong and healthy, but some kids just aren't good eaters. I used to stress a lot about their weight but now I came to understand that being healthy is more important than the numbers on the scale! 


"Sleep when the baby sleeps..."
Ermm...I hear this all the time but it's not always possible. In fact, when the baby sleeps, it's the best time to do some house chores, have a quick meal, pump out the milk and take a shower etc...When my kids were babies, they sleep in the cot and I would watch them sleep, to make sure they are safe and secure. Personally, I don't feel comfortable to sleep when the baby sleeps, especially when they are still little. 


"Your house is a Toys'R'us! " (LOL)

That is one hilarious remark I've heard! When you have small children at home, toys are everywhere...and when the kids get bored with old toys...Parents, grandparents, relatives start buying more toys to keep the little ones entertained. (Welcome to our toyland, please feel free to look around and make yourself at home!😁) 


"Your child cries a lot!"
No mothers want to hear that from anyone. It's really heartbreaking and distressing when a child cries! The helpless mom could be feeling scared, frustrated and trying her best to stop the crying drama! That remark doesn't serve anything, it only create more anxiety and make the mother panic! 


"Don't spoil the kids!"
OK, that one makes sense and I get the point, but trust me, it's easy to say than done! We love our children and we want to give them the best, don't we? In my opinion, protecting the children, giving them love and attention is never spoiling a child, but that's just me.


"Kids will be kids..."
Well yeah! I know that's true but that doesn't mean we should condone bad behavior. Discipline is an important part of parenting. Well, say for example, if your child got badly hurt or bullied by other kids and the parent tells you, "Kids will be kids..." Wow! how would you feel? 

Bad conduct/behavior is unacceptable and should not be ignored. As parents, it is our responsibility to teach our kids what's right and wrong.

"Stop worrying so much about your kids!"

The moment you become a mother, the worries never stop! You may worry lesser, but you will still be worried about the kids, always!...

My dear mama still worried about me when I skipped meals and when I didn't reply to her text messages. Typically, a mother never stops worrying. Maternal love, I suppose...❤️


Sometimes, words might seem unintentional and harmless to you but it matters to others, so be tactful for the choice of words you use.

...and if you are not sure what to say to a mother, always praise her for the hard work and tell her she is doing a great job! Be supportive and gracious always! 😘


So Mommies, what are some interesting remarks you have heard? Share with me and comment below. 


Blogger Mommywarrior77

My Mom, My Hero! 💖

Mama, 

As I flip through the old photo albums again, it brings back so many random memories... 


I still remember how you pat me to sleep every night...you must be so tired, I was such a clingy child! 

I remember you will always buy my favorite Ice-cream when I asked for one. I always get the biggest cone! 

I remember you took care of me when I was sick for weeks. I know you were so worried, so exhausted...You didn't get much sleep and had to get up early to work every day. 


I remember you were peeping through the windows to check on me, during my first day of school. I know you were as nervous as me...



I remember you rushed down to school when you forgot about my pocket money for recess. I could never forget that anxious look on your face. 


I remember the day I got hurt and injured my leg. You were shaken and helpless when you saw me screaming in pain. You rushed me to the nearest clinic. I know you were crying inside and it breaks your heart to see the bandage on my leg.

I remember that night you cried silently in your room when I didn't get good grades for my exams. I'm sorry that I let you down, I'm sorry that I made you cry, but please believe that I really tried...

I remember you warned me about the boys! You would nag all day and wait for me at the void deck when I came home late. I was mad at you for being controlling and overly protective but I know you did that because you care for me and want me to be home safe. I know you will always protect me and watch my back!

I remember you were hiding at the backstage during my performance in a singing contest. I saw you in the crowd later, smiling at me with a big thumb up when I made it to the finals. I think I made you proud that day!

I remember you were so happy for me when I got my driving license when I was 19, I took you out for a spin and we had a great celebration! 

I remember you held my hands tightly, the day I got married...I saw the happy tears in your eyes during the tea ceremony, but I know you felt very emotional that day... 

Mama, I know how much you love me, you have done so much over the years that I could never possibly list everything down here. No matter what I have done, you forgive me and you never give up on me! You always encourage me and give me support. You are always there to share my happiness and sadness.

Life was tough on you but you fought bravely and conquered the battles. I admire your strength and courage... You have taught me to be strong, to be positive and never to give up in life! You have a heart of gold. You taught me to be kind, selfless and to help others in need. You have raised me well and built a warrior in me! I have become a stronger and braver person today because of you. I will always teach my children the way you taught me.

Your hair has turned grey and your hands are wrinkled now, but in my eyes...you are always that beautiful and caring Angel who will always protect me and keep me safe from harm. Thank you so much for believing in me and taking good care of me. I'm truly grateful for your unconditional love, kindness, guidance and support.

No words or gifts can ever repay your love but still, I want to say a big thank you for everything you have done. You will always be my hero! Someone whom I look up to...I Love You, Mama!

I am writing this blog to express my appreciation and gratitude to my dear Mama for Mother's Day and I dedicate this to all the amazing mothers out there who truly deserve the highest respect and affirmation for their hard work and sacrifices. Motherhood is one of the most challenging job in the world but a very rewarding one as well.

Mother's Day is just a few days away but you can show love any day, any time! You don't have to wait for Mother's day to buy her a gift, give her a treat or take her out for a meal... 

Everyday can be Mother's Day too! 😉


Pick up the phone, give your Mom a call..give her a big warm hug and tell her how much you love her! That would be the sweetest and a priceless gift for every mother! 

Happy Mother's Day! Have a beautiful day filled with love, laughter and lots of cuddles! 👸😍💕🌷

Share this post to all the Supermoms in the world.. With love & blessings! ♥️

Blogger Mommywarrior77

Knowledge Is Power! (Never Stop Learning) 📚

Let's face it! In this society and the generation that we are living today, competition is everywhere around us...In school, at work, in a job interview, etc. Therefore, learning is essential for everyone! Good education systems and resources are very important for our future generations. 


In my opinion, competitions aren't always negative and stressful... Sometimes, it can be a form of motivation to strive better. Everyone aims for the best and no one like to fail. The more knowledge and skills you have, the better chance to succeed and achieve your goals. 

As parents, we want the best for our children. Don't we? Since the day they were born, we are constantly teaching them to walk, talk, write, read, helping them to build up their motor skills with educational toys and learning tools in their early years. 

We send our children to school to learn different subjects, languages, moral values and social skills that would help them in their adulthood in the years to come. I am sure every parent want their child to shine like a star, to have a bright future and hope they'll be successful in life.

Parents and teachers play an important role in a child's learning journey. As a work-at-home mum, I'm always looking for good learning materials for my little ones. I encourage my children to learn as much as they can. That way, they can excel, explore new things, to discover their potential and talents. 


My job as a parent is to give my children the best support they need, guide them in life and help them build a good attitude in learning. 


I'm glad that with the advanced technology and resources we have today, there are many helpful educational materials to make learning fun and interesting for both children & adults.


The mind of a child is full of curiosity, they are always eager to explore and learn. Children are attracted to bright colors, funny faces and colorful pictures, that is why cartoons are their top favorite channels. So, with the right educational tools, learning can be full of joy and excitement. 


I recently came across an interesting website with lots of cool themed worksheets that are customized for children in different age groups. They sent me some worksheets the other day and I would like to share with my readers. There are many lovely designs and different types of worksheets on their website (eg: maze, puzzles, games, mathematics, word tracer and more...) I think the kids would love them!


These worksheets can help the kids to improve their spelling, grammars, vocabulary, writing skills and penmanship as well. Afterall, practice makes perfect! 😉


I teach my son spelling every week. (He is Primary 2 this year) I guide him to write proper sentences in his compositions and to speak with confidence during his Show & Tell presentation in school and..........Happiness is when your child brings home his Spelling test with a full score! (10/10) Well done, Son! Mummy is very proud of you! Keep up the good work! 😘👍

Personally, I'm not one who focus too much on academic results. For me, I believe life is more than just getting good grades, there are things like morality and EQ that are equally important. However, I believe in learning as much as possible, to gain knowledge. I want my kids to enjoy learning every day and have a pleasant school life. As I mentioned in my earlier blog, education is indeed important because the world needs future doctors, scientists, lawyers, engineers, etc..


Knowledge is power! Knowledge comes from learning and leaders never stop learning. Education is the key ingredient to achieve long term success!


Every child deserves the best education! 
Whether you are a parent or a teacher...I believe we share the same goal, to improve our children's lives and to build a better future.



Help your kids strengthen their summer spelling knowledge with this spelling test! For more spelling resources, visit Education.com!

Confucius once said...
"Education Breeds Confidence.
 Confidence Breeds Hope. 
 Hope Breeds Peace."


Always keep learning, because life never stops teaching! 😉


Blogger Mommywarrior77

What's In Your Bag, Mommy? 👜💗

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?!..🙄) 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! 😁

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!😱 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.👍


☑️ 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...😉

Till then...Happy Mothering! 💗


Blogger Mommywarrior77