life with a toddler: Doraemon and bedtime tears

We had a great day today. The Fujiko F Fujio Museum was a great visit. Although I’ve only watched one Doraemon movie, still, I had a great time because it made me happy to see Hubs and our daughter having a grand time. 

Hubs for his part was feeling nostalgic; Doraemon after all was a huge part of his childhood. As I tailed Yui, Hubs lagged behind, looking at the original artwork in detail. The museum is celebrating its 5th anniversary, but since it’s still 2016, I’d also like to claim the 5 is for A&M’s anniversary (hehe!) although really, that should have been back in April and we were civilly married in 2010.  But still! Happy 5th!


Repeatedly Yui had said “tanoshikata” (it was enjoyable). The effect it has on me doesn’t wane though, every time she says it; especially when she looks me in the eye and I could see her eyes twinkling. 

This evening though, I sent her to bed crying. 

It was already 30 minutes past midnight yet she was stil asking that we read a book; this, despite the fact that we already read her 5 different books this evening. She was crying that she can’t read yet and hence have to rely on us to read to her. Told her we don’t mind reading to her but that the point is, it’s already past midnight and tomorrow’s not a holiday for her – it’s an early day to daycare. 

And so she cried herself to sleep. This made me remember as well the nights I cried myself to sleep because my father scolded me hard because I was still awake (reading too!) at past midnight. 

Well then, when it comes to late nights, indeed, it’s “like mother, like daughter” for us. 

life with a toddler: on simple courtesy

I picked you up late today so I just bought cooked food for dinner since I wouldn’t have time to prepare for one this evening. And because it was late (almost 8!), the bus was crowded albeit thankfully, you were still able to get a seat. I stood before you, with both my arms and my shoulders loaded. You told me to hold the post but your expression turned reflective when you realised my hands were full. 

And then you uttered the sweetest words: 

“Mommy, I’ll carry that for you”.  

Well. You just made me the happiest mother. Thank you anak and continue to grow well.