My Little Abigail And Little Joshua

Justin first teething biscuit

2012-01-03T08:30:00.001-08:00

3rd Jan 2012
Justin first teething biscuit. He really enjoy it.

29th Dec to 31st Dec 2011, Melaka

2012-01-03T08:28:00.001-08:00

Warm
I planned a short trip to Melaka on thursday, So that the kids can enjoy themselves before the school opens.
We suppose to leave at 10am, but because Leng can't find her passport, we have to leave at 7pm.
Makota hotel is not a great hotel, I wont stay here again. Anyway the
Kids enjoyed themselves.
But I think the next trip i will plan to go somewhere else.

3rd Jan 2012

2012-01-03T08:24:00.001-08:00

Warm
Today is Tuesday, suppose to be Joshua first day in primary one, a d Abby first day in primary 3.
I woke up by 6am, hopefully can send Joshua to School by 6:45am, but he fall sick and has a fever of 39.7C, and got 2 days MC.
I went breakfast with him in the morning, later went to CHIJ to pick Abby's uniform, and stay with Joshua at home.
At around 5pm, i gave him the first dose of medicine, and the moment he walked into his room, he vomited.
Actually I can tell that he is worried I scold him, he keep telling me that he wanted to go to school and dont know why he fall sick.

Joshua back from chicken pox

2011-12-09T19:06:00.001-08:00

9th Dec 2011
Joshua has been given clean bill of heath and returns home. Abby was very excited after separating from Joshua for 2 weeks

Bring Joshua to see doctor

2011-11-26T18:07:00.001-08:00

27th Nov 2011
Warm
Brought Joshua to AMK Clinic to see doctor for his chicken pox. Today the chicken pox starts to spread his face and body, but he does not have any fever

Joshua has chicken pox

2011-11-26T01:14:00.001-08:00

26th Nov 2011
Raining day
I notice red dots on Joshua neck after I send Abby to the wing Chun class. We have decided to temporarily put him at my parent's house to separate Jim from Justin.
He was happy when he heard the news, but looks sad when I send him there. He told me that he is bored in their house.

Justin first time sitting on the baby chair

2011-11-20T06:17:00.001-08:00

20th Nov 2011
We went to Loyang Point for lunch and try putting Justin in the baby chair.
And saw the picture I told him holding the milk bottle?
This boy is very remarkable, he progress very fast.
Today he started to stand up on the baby cot, and now we Hve to lowering bed just in case he falls off the cot.

Justin first set of teeth

2011-11-12T23:23:00.001-08:00

12 nov 2011

Justin teeth starts to appear on the lower jaw.

8th Nov 2011

2011-11-07T18:01:00.001-08:00

Tuesday, raining

Can tell Joshua loves his little brother. He can entertain him every morning.

7th nov 2011, Monday

2011-11-07T06:12:00.001-08:00

Monday, warm
Taught Joshua and abby how to play Chinese chess. Hope through this game can teach them patience and strategies.
Went to Toa Payoh to buy Joshua pants for the concert. We took mrt there, both kids were excited.
Abby bought 3 Enid Byton books, she was reading the book on the journey back home. Never know she can be so engross in reading.

31st Oct 2011 Tues

2011-11-01T10:17:00.001-07:00

Warm
Abby told Leng that she did well for her chinese test. I think she is beginning to regain her confidence.
Joshua refuse to change again in the morning, i am thinking that this boy follows routine, and he doesn't like adults to lie to him.
His grandma was suppose to bring Hin to school in the morning, but because he woke late, and missed the timing , he feels frustrated.

30th October 2011, Monday

2011-10-31T07:45:00.001-07:00

Rain
Abby remember what I told her when she was doing her maths test today.
I was relieve that she is teachable.
Whatever her results will be, I believe she has already done her best.

30th October 2011, Sunday

2011-10-29T21:00:00.001-07:00

Warm
Brought Abby to Tian Shia, at 9am for her make up class.
We are discussing to put her in Sunday class so that we can manage our time better.
Met nigel, thought can practice with him, but in the end still have to drive them to pasir ris.
I have Abby go through the test paper, first paper she score 68 marks, she could have done better if not for her careless mistake.
2nd paper she score 52 points, again she had a lot of careless mistake.

29th October 2011, At the swimming pool

2011-10-29T03:06:00.001-07:00

Rain and Sun

Abby is approaching 1.3M, while Joshua stands at 1.2M

29th October 2011 Saturday

2011-10-28T19:31:00.001-07:00

Warm
Preparing abby for her math test on monday.

28th October 2011

2011-10-28T10:30:00.001-07:00

Raining

Abby told me she did well for her English test, I did not ask further. I know she will do her best.
I asked Joshua to practice writing by copying words from a story book. His future teacher in P1 will definitely complain about his handwriting.

27th October 2011

2011-10-27T06:50:00.001-07:00

Raining
Preparing Abby for her exam on Friday. Joshua was also doing his work.willing to accompany her sister until 10pm.

26th Oct 2011

2011-10-25T22:15:00.001-07:00

Warm
Coach Abby her English starting from basic grammer. Met John yesterday to discuss on her fees, charging $52.20 per session of 90mins looks expensive.
At least Abby shows the interest to study when she is not under stress.

25th Oct 2011

2011-10-24T22:13:00.001-07:00

Warm
Joshua was making noise again early in the morning.
Seems like both my kids have problem with their grandfather. I dun know what irritate them.
Have told Leng Leng that we Have arrange a dinner at my dad's house

24th October 2011

2011-10-24T10:08:00.001-07:00

Warm
Abby told me she does not want to be a class monitor was because class monitor needs to speak loudly.
I told her that at certain situation, she may need to talk loudly for people to listen, while in other situation u do not need to speak loud.
I also told her that the gymnastic class and the swimming class is to strengthen her self confidence.
I believe she can shine.
Called John Chong in the afternoon, may engage him to be her personal tutor.

Abby's Progress in math

2011-10-22T22:12:00.001-07:00

22th Oct 2011
Abby's understanding on math is still quite weak. Although I m not that worry, I am still quite frustrated at her progress in interpreting the sentences.
I tends to raise my voice when I try to teach her.
Hope she will eventually open her mind
When she goes to higher learning.

Sk2 class starts today

2011-04-23T02:43:00.000-07:00

23 April 2011

SK2 swimming class starts today, and Abby and Joshua finally can learn swimming together.
Joshua progress very fast, and I believe with some coaching both of them can be much stronger swimmer than me.

-- Post From My iPhone

Gymnastic instructor

2011-04-14T09:24:00.000-07:00

Met the instructor in the club, I asked him how was abby doing in the class, he told me she just join, but is progressing very fast.
He told me why he pick her for the advance class was because she was obedient, cheerful, and teachable. The best trait was whenever she make mistake she will still smile and laugh over it.

-- Post From My iPhone

21 Feb 2011

2011-02-21T10:07:00.000-08:00

Sunny
I was sending Abby and Joshua to the gym class. On the way I saw a police van and ask them if did they put on their safety belt.
Abby was sitting at the passenger seat, and she told me that if the police were to catch, they will catch the parents because the parent are the one that did not teach the children properly..haha..she is so cute.
Moments later, I drove past the red traffic light without realizing it, Joshua told me that next time I cannot do it again.
They have really grown up..

-- Post From My iPhone

30th Jan 2011

2011-02-01T09:34:00.000-08:00

Raining
Teach Abby how to swim free style and she did quite well.
Joshua finally has the courage to dip his head under the water.
Had dinner with my parents, and also took some

pictures

-- Post From My iPhone

25th Feb 2011

2011-01-25T02:13:00.000-08:00

Cool weather

Brought joshua to the void deck to play bicycle.

-- Post From My iPhone

14th Jan 11'

2011-01-15T03:53:00.000-08:00

Warm in the morning,raining on the evening

Second day in the Bazgym, Joshua initially do not want to join the class, but after some persuading he still participate.
Both are able to stretch quite well..I insist Joshua to join because I find that the training is rather regimental, which I hope Joshua will learn discipline through it.
And also the training is able to develop their different parts of the muscle.

Swimming lesson proceed smoothly also, Joshua is not afraid of immersing himself into the water anymore.

-- Post From My iPhone

14th Jan 11

2011-01-14T02:29:00.000-08:00

Raining day
Joshua 1st day In piano lesson. He seems to be very focus and adapt quickly.

-- Post From My iPhone

13 Jan 11'

2011-01-13T01:43:00.000-08:00

Warm
Brought Joshua for skating. He is doing very well..

-- Post From My iPhone

10th Jan 11

2011-01-11T06:51:00.000-08:00

Drizzing, cool weather

Morning i brought Joshua to KK hospital to consult the doctor on his bleeding nose.We tool MRT, and reached there on time.
Nothing to cause an alarm, the nose bleed is completely normal for kids.
As requested by Joshua, we took a bus back.
Lunch was decided by Joshua, he wanted to eat rice with his own choice of dishes, he now has his own decision making, which is good.

9th Jan 11

2011-01-11T06:47:00.000-08:00

Rain

Brought the kids for their first gynastics in Ah Hood road. I cant believe the amount of exercises that need to go through in their first lesson.
But both of them were enjoying themselves alot, and Joshua was asking if he can come back again the following week.
I signed up the 10am class for them, the whole saturday will be packed with activities. After the gynastics, i will have to rush Abby for her WC class at 11am, then follow by 3pm swimming class for Joshua.

11 Jan 11'

2011-01-11T06:37:00.000-08:00

Cool weather

Picked Abby early at 4pm, and brought her to MAcdonalds.
Helped her on her chinese spelling , spend almost 90 mins with her. I found that she has good memory, but needs lots of discipline to extract out her talent.
I dun think i have the time to do so.
Actually i promise Joshua this morning that i will bring both of them for skating, but it was already late when i fetch Joshua.
Perhaps i will bring them on the coming Sunday.

Joshua was a little mischievous boy, told him not to kiss me with his oily mouth and he kept doing that.

4th Jan 2011

2011-01-04T06:17:00.000-08:00

Warm
Busy as usual in the morning, after went to pick Abby early to help her revise her homework.
Did some Chinese with her, and later brought Abby and Joshua to take dinner.

-- Post From My iPhone

30th Dec 2010

2010-12-30T08:24:00.000-08:00

Warm
not working today, plan to go for a swim in the morning, and then gave the 2 kids a surprise by bringing them to see the Yogi show.
But in the end, have to bring Abby the National Skin Care center to check on her pus.
Abby and Joshua are so cute, i find Joshua has a adventurous spirit, can be groom to do big things.

14th Dec 2010

2010-12-14T07:22:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, Sunny

I fetched Abby back early and taught her math at the Macdonald's .
I had planned a surprised for both Abby and Joshua, and that is to bring them to watch a movie.
They were so excited, and full of questions after te show.

-- Post From My iPhone

13th Dec 2010

2010-12-14T07:21:00.000-08:00

Monday, sunny

Early morning at around 8am, Joshua called my handphone and ask me which car model ia faster? Mazda or Honda..he was determine to find out the answer.

-- Post From My iPhone

27th nov 2010

2010-11-27T08:59:00.000-08:00

Thought today was Jason's son celebration. I brought Abby to the WC class, brought her for lunch and by the time I rush back, it was already 2pm.
When we reached Downtown East and called Jason, then I realised the party is on the 28th.

Anyway we had good time in Downtown East, Abby and Joshua were playing the merry go round and the train.
Later I bring them to the playground.

-- Post From My iPhone

1 Nov 2010

2010-11-03T00:40:00.000-07:00

Abby told me when i picked her up after school that she and Joyce were making Lanis as her enemy.
This was because Lanis was caught stealing stickers from her, and also has not been too friendly to other friends.

Joshua bath himself

2010-04-11T07:22:00.000-07:00

Joshua starts to bath himself today. In fact Abby has been doing her own bathing since last week. They are starting to show signs of independence, and certainly we need to give them some responsibility.

Otto and Retriever

2010-04-11T05:39:00.000-07:00

We attend a relationshop seminar organise by the church. From the seminar, there was a chart that describe the 4 different types of characters and the different motivation methods.
We believe Abby belongs to the Retriever, that is relax in nature, a mediator between friends, and the keyword to this type of character is 'Peace'. She likes to be in the midst of friends, and is not concern where and what they will be doing. That really describe her profile.
Because this group of people desires to please others, the most effective motivator is to tell her that in doing what she is suppose to do, she is really helping other people.

Joshua is a obvious Otto, the keyword to this type of personality is 'Party', love fun, and also a crowd pleaser. He may be the influencer, but may not be a dominating character like the Lion.
To motivate an Otto, the best way is to tell him that if he do not perform a specific task, he will be left alone, or take away certain privileages.

Joshua with the K1 teacher

2010-01-31T00:11:00.000-08:00

-- Post From My iPhone

Joshua writing letter 'm'

2010-01-31T00:05:00.001-08:00

This is , as usual, can't sit down for more than 5 minutes. I am forcing him to do writing so he will not disturb Abby.

-- Post From My iPhone

Doing Hanyu Pinying

2010-01-30T23:56:00.000-08:00

Revising hanyu pinying with Abby is the church. Muumy is having meeting and I just finish lunch with them in loyang point.

-- Post From My iPhone

Spelling

2010-01-28T19:29:00.001-08:00

I got a call from Wendy that the spelling required by CHIJ is difficult and Abby is having hard time trying to memorize all the 10 words. She told me not to give too much pressure on her.
So that night I decided to have Abby learn only 2 words per day, but even that, she still have problem memorizing the 2 words.

-- Post From My iPhone

Meet the parents day

2010-01-22T07:18:00.000-08:00

Comment make by Mrs Mary Lee on Abby was not too encouraging. She was been descript as very well behave, but too quiet, timid, and slow on her work, and do not really mix around much.
We have decided that since there are nothing we can do on her character, we need to help her to improve her studies, and her writing speed. She needs time to get herself confident and socialable, but we need her to do well in her studies to gain confidence in this area.
We will draft out a schedule for her to follow, and also for us to follow also. Some sacrifices are needed, but for her long term benefit, we need to commit.
Let's hope and pray that within 6 months, she will be chatty again.

Meeting at Lau Pat Sat

2010-01-22T00:12:00.005-08:00

This will be the first meeting (all men) we had After so many years. Tomorrow will be hoilday for them, and I guess I may need to take leave tomorrow.

-- Post From My iPhone

Sri Lanka

2010-01-22T00:12:00.003-08:00

I am leaving for Sri lanka in the afternoon. I told Abby of my trip and she show signs of disappointment.
I prayed for her before i send her to school. She was complaining of stomache in the morning. She still do not have any concept on money, because she was asking why she need to pay the store for the food she buys.
And before I forget, today will be her first day without Fang Ling accompanying her.
Sri lanka looks like Vietnam. The drive to the hotel was an experience, the roads are narrow and the driver was zooming left and right and was pressing the horn every moment.
Going to the hotel from the airport cost about 2250 rupee. The first impression when I step out of the plane was everything was so new and was better than the Thailand airport. But that impression just stop that when we went down to collect my lugguage.
My first meal is the beef fried rice. Hotel was ok, nothing impressive.
-- Post From My iPhone

Sri lanka day 2

2010-01-22T00:12:00.001-08:00

We walked along Galle Road and along the way did not see anything interesting.
There are a handful of small bakery shops, cafe is non-existence , the coffee is too sweet.
At 2pm, those guys from eSys came and bring us for lunch in Cinnamon Hotel. personally I don't think Jentech can do any business with them, both are young and did not seems to want to share much with us.
At night we went to Mt Avernia for some drinking. The beach was beautiful, but there were no tourist. We settle in this Shelton Restuarant and order a slice of grill fish and butter grill prawns. They do not have much choices of finger food. During dinner we met one guy that was in the freight business and he promise to send us some enquiries on the list of products he need. We arranged to meet on the 3rd day at the same place.

-- Post From My iPhone

9th JAn 10

2010-01-10T17:16:00.000-08:00

Spend almost 2 hrs in the Safra swimming pool. I swam 5 short laps together with Abby, and later the rest of the time sun tanning.
Abby and Joshua were playing catching with each other.

08 Jan 2010

2010-01-07T21:39:00.001-08:00

Mrs Mary lee called up and informed me that Abby urinated during maths lesson. I don't intend to question her after school, instead I want to talk to her privately tonight. Among other things like money matters and making friends.

-- Post From My iPhone

5th Jan 2010

2010-01-06T23:13:00.000-08:00

i was having a fever today, but still i brought Abby to school this morning.I enjoy the short walk with her to school, this maybe the time that we can talk and spend some time together.
She had noodles again during recess but other than that she did not share much to me.
I spend the whole afternoon sleeping because of the high fever.

5th Jan 2010

2010-01-06T23:06:00.000-08:00

Today was Abby's second day in school. Her buddy, Fang Ling, took good care of her throughout the session.
We forgot to gave her pocket money today, and was worried for her...oh ya, yesterday she had porridge during recess, and today she bought fish ball noodles.
Her grandfather came at 1:30pm to pick her up.
What was my feeling? 6 years ago she was only a tiny baby and i have to carry her almost everyday, today i wanted to carry her after school but she rejected me...so i guess in another 10 more years, she wont even allow me to hold her hands.
I hope she starts to learn more about being a human, building character and be strong in her will.

First day in primary school

2010-01-04T23:28:00.000-08:00

04th Jan 2010 is the beginning of academic life for Abby. This was taken at home before we leave for school.

-- Post From My iPhone

Abby can swim

2009-12-12T23:08:00.001-08:00

I has been sone time since I wrote in this blog. Abby has successfully swim after 12 wks of lessons. Joshua got frightened of the instructor and did not learn anyting

-- Post From My iPhone

9th nov monday

2009-11-14T21:29:00.001-08:00

Received the letter from St Nichalos for her orientation on the 28th nov 09, she will be in the 'widsom' team and her class colour is green.

-- Post From My iPhone

15th nov sunday

2009-11-14T21:24:00.000-08:00

I asked Abby this morning if she is looking forward to primary one, she told me she I excited but is scared I teachers scolding her.
I do hope she enjoy herself not only in primary kne, but for the rest of her schooling days.

Swimming class

2009-10-22T01:01:00.001-07:00

The first swimming class, according to leng leng, was a complete surprise. Abby dared to jump into the pool and was learning pretty fast, on the other hand, joshua, who miss his first lesson due to fever, dare not dipped his head into the pool. The 2nd and 3rd lessons did not proceed well. But I manage to convince him to walk inside the pool without assistance. Hopefully the next lesson he can completely submerge inside the pool.
This week the instrucor brought the class to the deeper pool, and Abby jumped into the pool as instructed.
I am truely proud of her.

-- Post From My iPhone

Thailand trip 23 oct 09

2009-10-22T00:55:00.001-07:00

Many things happen just preparing for this trip. First leng leng invited all our old folks along but later found that the air ticket are expensive and we decided not to ask them.
2nd, both Abby and Joshua got so excited that they thought the trip was on the 18th oct, they told all their friends in the school and even packed their bed sheets .
3rd, we realised that joshua's passport photo was outdated and need to take his retake the picture, we rushed to MOM on the Wednesday morning and thanks God we can collect his passport on thursday.
This will be our first family trip this year and I really hope they will enjoy themselves.

-- Post From My iPhone

Bringing up kids

2009-10-17T21:07:00.001-07:00

I was waiting for Randy when I overhead a conversation between a dad and his son.
The father was trying to persuade his son to go for the sermon, and looking at the expression of his son, the conversation apparently did not go very well.
I did not get the whole converation, but one sentence he made makes me ponder. He was asking his son why after all this years of going to Sunday schools, he still eventually refused to attend the sermon.
The boy did not answer, but I am sure between them relation began to crumble many years before today.
I am worried for both Abby and joshua, I hope the years of learning in Sunday schools will help them
Develop the love for God.
I believe the ways to do that is to get involve with them and to pray for them.

-- Post From My iPhone

2009-10-17T20:53:00.003-07:00

-- Post From My iPhone

Deepavali 09

2009-10-17T20:53:00.001-07:00

Went to Little India to have the kids experience how the Indians celebrate Deepavali. We had dinner in a vegetarian resturant, and I think no one enjoys the meal except for me .

-- Post From My iPhone

Abby goes to Ang mo kio primary school

2009-09-14T18:44:00.001-07:00

15th sep 2009
Abby is going for a school tour organized by the Center. The purpose is to prepare all the K2 students fir their next phase in education in less than 6 months.
This is also our first time giving her pocket money of $2.00 for her to experience buying food from the canteen.
Hope she enjoy the trip.

-- Post From My iPhone

Singapore property guide

2009-08-17T09:26:00.000-07:00

Housing in Singapore is readily available with a vast selection to meet your choice of location, budget, facilities, nearby amenities and other personal preferences. You can rent either public housing or a private property in Singapore. While renting a private property is the most popular choice for majority of the expats in Singapore, public housing is also a very viable option for expats with limited budget.

Unless you’re a senior-level expatriate with an excellent housing compensation package, you will probably have to shoulder most of the cost of the housing on your own. Experts advise that not more than 30% of your salary should go into your monthly rent or mortgage to keep you financially afloat. Rentals vary depending on the choice of housing - public or private; size of the unit; facilities, amenities, interiors; fully furnished or partially furnished; and location.

Types of Housing Available
In general, housing in Singapore can be divided into three categories:

private apartments/condominiums - ideal for most expats
landed property (i.e. houses) - ideal for expats who prefer a large space and have a large budget
public housing locally known as Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats - ideal for expats with limited budget
Private apartments/condos
Private property can be divided into private condominium and private apartment, the former being bigger and having more facilities such as a swimming pool, tennis court, gym, squash court, children playground and BBQ area. Typically, private condos have their own security guards and enclosed car parks. They also have stylish exteriors and interiors. Most units are well furnished and come with basic household appliances (washing machine, microwave, television, air-con and refrigerator). Some may be partially furnished (minimal furniture and all basic household appliances). Very rarely are units totally non-furnished.

Rental costs vary depending on the location and size of the unit. A two-bedroom condo in the central business district (CBD) rents at 5000-10000 SGD, while units located outside the CBD rent between 2500-5000 SGD. Citizens, Permanent Residents (PR's) and foreigners can rent as well as buy private apartments and condos.

Landed property
Landed properties include terraced house, semi-detached house, detached house, and bungalows. Since land is scarce in Singapore, renting a landed property is usually lot more expensive, especially those nearer to the city center. Rental costs for such property ranges between 8,000-30,000 SGD. Only citizens and PR's (subject to approval from the Ministry of Law) are eligible to buy landed property. Foreigners are not eligible to buy such property, but can rent the same. In other words, you can own land in Singapore only if you are either a Singapore citizen or a Singapore permanent resident who has received approval to do so from the Ministry of Law.

HDB Flats
HDB flats are public housing that is owned by the government. Unlike most other countries, in Singapore HDB flats are not considered to be a sign of poverty or a lower standard of living. More than 80% of Singapore’s local population live in HDB estates. These estates include a concentration of a number of HDB apartment blocks designed to be self-contained neighborhoods. Many basic facilities such as local banks, local schools, markets, polyclinics, libraries, shopping malls and train and bus stations are located in close proximity. However these apartments do not come with luxury amenities like swimming pools or gyms. Also, keep in mind that majority of your neighbours in an HDB block would be working class Singaporeans and their lifestyle might not match yours.

For citizens of Singapore, the HDB flats are available at a subsidized rate, with the government providing the subsidy. For non-citizens, HDB flats are available for rent in the open market but not at subsidized rates. HDB flats can vary in size, ranging from two-bedroom to four-bedroom units. Rental costs for HDB units depend on the location and size of the unit. These units are usually fully or partially furnished. A three-bedroom HDB close to the Central Business District (CBD) rents at 2500-3000 SGD, while at other locations it costs 1500-2500 SGD.

If you’re planning to rent an HDB flat, make sure your landlord has approval from the HDB authorities to rent his flat. Such an approval is required beforehand and you can ask to see a copy of the approval letter when you go to view the unit.

Others: Serviced apartments/Hotels
For short-term stay (or until you find suitable longer-term accommodations), you might want to consider serviced apartments or one of Singapore’s hotels. You can get a hotel room around SGD 100-300 a night whereas the monthly rent for a serviced apartment will cost you around SGD 5000-10,000 a month. See Guide to short-term accommodations in Singapore for more details.

For more information on types of housing, see related article What property type to rent in Singapore?.

Location
You can choose to live in the North, East or West of Singapore depending on which location suits you best. Each region has its advantages and the choice is purely personal, depending on such factors as proximity to lifestyle attractions, the location of your child's school, and your place of work.

East
The East Coast is a favorite among expats for its panoramic view of the sea, myriad food choices and close proximity to the East Coast Park, East Coast Tennis Center and the Laguna Golf Course. Forty-five minutes away, you will find schools such as the Singapore American School and the United World College. Ten-minutes away, you will find the Changi airport. It is also close to the CBD and Suntec City Centre, where most of the banks and financial institutions are located.

West
Many of the well known schools including international schools such as Tanglin Trust School, United World College, and ISS as well as Singapore higher education institutes such as National University of Singapore, Singapore Polytechnic and INSEAD are located in the West Coast.

Another location favored by expats is Holland Village in the North West. Expats are drawn to the neighborhood’s bohemian appeal and high density of restaurant offerings. Also in the North West you will find upper Bukit Timah, an area with a lush green environment. It is a bit far from the city center but close to the Canadian International School. This area has fairly well connecting bus routes but lacks access to MRT.

North
Woodlands, the northern most part of town, is fast becoming a favorite among American expatriates due to its close proximity to the Singapore American School. Other districts in the North are Ang Mo Kio, Toa Payoh, Braddel and Yio Chu Kang. This area has a large concentration of HDB housing and offers a good rental choice for expatriates with smaller budgets. These neighborhoods are about thirty minutes away from the city center, if accessed using the public transport.

Central North

Areas located close to the central north like Serangoon, Upper Serangoon and Hougang areas are generally preferred by Indians since Delhi Public School is in the vicinity and Little India commercial center is nearby.

Central South
The areas to the south-centre of the island (Orchard Road and Lower Bukit Timah) command premium rent. This area is considered the city centre and the key benefit of living here is its central location and direct access to shopping malls. However, the rental prices in this area can be quite high, in some cases as high as anywhere else in the world!

Buying
Many expats with longer-term plans to stay in Singapore buy a property in Singapore instead of renting one. The real estate market in Singapore is well-regulated, clean and very efficient. As such, the process of buying or selling a property in Singapore is at par with the most developed countries. There is an efficient and liquid market for real estate in Singapore, therefore, selling a property when you plan to leave Singapore will not be a problem. Some other factors to consider are:

There are currently no restrictions for foreigners to buy private condominiums or apartments.
Landed property can only be purchased by citizens or PRs (by obtaining government approval first).
HDB flats can also be purchased only by citizens or PRs (eligibility criteria apply).
Given the restrictions on buying landed property or HDB flats, foreigners who are not permanent residents can only buy private condominiums or apartments in Singapore.

Common Rental Practices in Singapore
Renting private condos or apartments is the number one choice among expats and so it is beneficial for potential tenants to review some of the common rental practices in Singapore:

Letter of intent: Once you’ve decided on an apartment, you and the landlord should sign the Letter of Intent, a proposal from you to the landlord to lease the apartment with the conditions set by you. By signing the document the landlord accepts the conditions, which normally have been agreed verbally beforehand. The letter of intent should also specify what furniture or appliances you would like added to or removed from the property.
Good Faith Deposit: Usually one month’s rent. This deposit is made when the you execute the letter of intent. Upon the landlord’s acceptance of the good faith deposit, the landlord promises not to lease the apartment to anybody else. When the tenancy agreement is signed, this deposit will be deducted from the first rental or security deposit.
Tenancy Agreement: Sign a lease with the owner. This is a legal contract between you and the owner, which sets out the duties and responsibilities of both parties. Standard lease periods are 1-2 years, with or without the option to renew the lease for another year. Check that you have a Diplomatic Clause, which states that the contract can be terminated before the term should your job require you to be relocated elsewhere or should your employment pass get cancelled. Some landlords may not agree to such a clause.
Inventory: Sign an inventory, listing all the items provided by the owner, including their condition.
Advance: Pay rent in advance.
Security Deposit: Put down a deposit or “security bond” equivalent to 1-2 months rent which shall be returned when you leave unless there are outstanding rental charges or other costs (such as property damage).
Utilities and services: Open an account for water, electricity, gas, residential phoneline and get a broadband internet connection.
Rent Payment: After moving in, be careful to always pay your rent on time. Unlike in many other countries, Singapore is considered a landlord friendly place. A landowner can repossess the property, seize and sell the goods inside immediately after they obtain a writ of distress from the courts.
Searching for Housing
Finding and renting accommodations in Singapore is fairly straightforward and convenient, especially if you utilize the services of a experienced real estate agent. The commission charged by property agents in Singapore is very reasonable and worth every penny. As a normal practice, Real Estate agents in Singapore charge a standard comission: 1/2 month's rent for a one-year contract and a full month’s rent for a two-year contract. Generally, if the rent is over SGD 2500, you don’t need to pay the commission; your agent’s commission will be paid by the landlord, split with the landlord’s agent.

Other Related Topics

Singapore Branch | Singapore Subsidiary | Singapore Representative Office

-- Post From My iPhone

I will still live you after you die

2009-08-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

This were the words told by Abby when I was with her in my office on the 9th aug 09.
I do not know what causes her to say that, but it definitly touch me.
I found that she is a very emotional girl, full of passion and devotion.
I hope that these triaits will not cause her too much hurt in the future.

-- Post From My iPhone

CHIJ

2009-08-01T10:43:00.000-07:00

We never thought of registering Abby into this school, for the so many years we stay in AMK, it never cross my mind to register her in this school.
We wanted her to enjoy her childhood and not to be too stress over by school loads, but in the end we chose to follow God's direction to put her in this school where she will spend the next 10 years learning and sociallising.
Registration began 3 days ago, but since I was in KL, we decided to spend Friday visiting the school of our choice.
First stop was Anderson Primary, but the vacancy for the Phase 2B was left with 5 slots. As our chance of getting will be very slim, we decided to go to Guo Chuan instead.
In the way back to collect one of the essential document, I make remark of visit. CHIJ, since it is so near to our house. We are assuming that there will be no vacancy left even for those who stay within the one KM, but little do we know that as of 11am, there are still 6 vacancies left, and our chances of getting the place is very high.
We prayed for God's direction, and return to register at 3pm. By4:30pm, we have been told that we hve already secured the place for Abby.
Let's hope that this will be the school that will build up her character and leadership skill.
God bless this girl..
-- Post From My iPhone

The Interrogation Begins

2009-07-30T04:37:00.002-07:00

I reached Singapore at 2:20pm, took bus back home, went to the coffeeshop to have a light snack by 5pm.
When i collect Abby and Joshua, they started to ask me for their present, and throughout the whole journey home, they kept repeating and reminding me to buy what they want.
Abby even suggested to me to go to AMK hub to hunt for the luggage and the mini computer before i go to fetch the mother.

Business trip to Malaysia

2009-07-30T04:37:00.001-07:00

Before the trip, both my kids wanted mr to buy them a present.
Abby wanted a travel luggage so that she can pack her personal belongs in our next trip.
Joshua wanted 4 things, Power Ranger, spiderman, giffrafe and a horse.
I did not buy any of those during my short stay in KL,
cos I could not find any of those in Bukit Bintang.

-- Post From My iPhone

19th July 09

2009-07-20T11:11:00.001-07:00

Had a gathering together with Weng kong and family, meng Seng and Molly, Terance and xiao lu.
We had steam boat at Tan qwee LAN street, truly enjoying ourselves. It has been a long time since we met.
The next time when Weng kong return to Singapore 3 years later, Abby will be 9 yrs old, and I am approaching 40 yrs old.
Time flies and let's hope our friendship still remains stronger than before.

-- Post From My iPhone

Learning weiqi

2009-07-17T23:53:00.001-07:00

2nd lession for Abby, but she may not like it..

-- Post From My iPhone

13th july 09

2009-07-13T09:37:00.001-07:00

This was told by leng leng over dinner.
Last night she asked Abby if her tooth was still in pain, Abby told her that she felt the pain on that night when the dentist extract her tooth, but the next day she did not feel any pain. Leng leng thus reaffirm her thar what the dentist told her before he began the operation was true, that he did not lie.
Abby asked leng leng if the dentist is a Christian, because Christian don't lie.
Leng was very please with her progress, that Abby is able now to associate christianity with telling the truth,
And what we have been stressing to her began to beat fruits.
This is only the beginning of the very long and tedious journey of educaton and life long imparting of skills and experiences to our children.
The journey will never end, nor will we be ever satisfy, however, what is important is that whenever they fall, they know who to turn to, and who to look for help, that our Almighty God is always there to look after them, and protect them.

-- Post From My iPhone

12 July 09

2009-07-12T00:20:00.001-07:00

A girl went to Abby and told her that she finds her very cute, the first thought that cross my mind was.." o gosh, if someone already find her cute at 6 years old, what will the guys think when she reach

16?"
I need to commit her to the Lord that she will have nothing to do with this world, but everything to the submission to the Lord, and to do whatever the Lord leads her..

-- Post From My iPhone

Iberry cafe

2009-07-12T00:05:00.001-07:00

I am now sitting at iBerry cafe, relaxing and wasting time. The wifi connection to the iPhone is weak, still I refuse to take my laptop. Perhaps I know most of the enquiries can wait.

-- Post From My iPhone

Babysitting

2009-07-02T21:46:00.001-07:00

Took leave today to babysit my 2 lovely babies.
Abby playing hoolahood..

-- Post From My iPhone

Business trip to thailand

2009-06-21T14:01:00.001-07:00

Need to wake up at 3:30am in the morning to catch the Tiger flight to BKK. In fact the could not sleep the whole night even how hard i force myself to sleep. It has been like this for the past few days.
Leng leng gave me a belated birthday present, it is a small perfume enclose in those promotion cover.
Took my early breakfast at macdonald's, I figured I will be hungry during the flight.
The worst thing is I will need to wait 4 hrs for my next flight to Chiangmai.

-- Post From My iPhone

Swine flu Riverlife

2009-06-20T22:34:00.000-07:00

We had 6 youths that were affected by the swine flu and activities for all youth and children were stop.
Only half attended service today.

-- Post From My iPhone

20th June 09

2009-06-20T06:15:00.000-07:00

Went swimming in the morning, woke up at 8:30am, and the two kids were so excited. And this was really our first time as a family to go swimming in the morning.
The next event that took place also immediately after the swim was to meet May, the property agent. The offer of $20,000 COV, was rejected by us.
The valuation was $415,000, an increased of $5000.
Leng felt bad for May, but I told her this is part and parcel of sales, especially as a property agent.
From the begining I already do not have good feeling on May, she is too intelligent to be in this business.
She had the valuation all along but refuse to let us know.

-- Post From My iPhone

Swimming

2009-06-07T08:21:00.001-07:00

Brought the kids to Yio Chu Kang swimming pool. Joshua was excited before the trip and even fold his own swimming costume, but when he reached the pool, he dared not step inside the water.
Abby was a little more adventurous but she still dare not play the slide.
We definitely need to bring them to the pool more often.

-- Post From My iPhone

2009-06-05T07:01:00.001-07:00

-- Post From My iPhone

Writing blog

2009-06-05T06:57:00.000-07:00

Writing a blog requires discipline and lots of determination. I don't have the habit of wriing but I guess I need to start writing now.
Lots of things happen just a span of one month, and relationship can change almost immediately without warning.
Lini had breast cancer and did her operation in April, I feel bad for her. Guess I need to pray for her every day.

-- Post From My iPhone

Making decision the 10-10-10 way

2009-05-22T23:30:00.000-07:00

How do we make decision? According to a book 10-10-10, before we decideon anything, we have to ensure that our 10 mins of decision making may affect the outcome 10 months later, and this may cause an impact 10 years later. How is this so? Human emotion is difficult to predict, the 10 minutes choice may affect us emotionally after 10 months. And even after 10 years, whatever experiences in the past will be remember .

-- Post From My iPhone

Early in the morning

2009-04-26T14:50:00.000-07:00

I woke up at around 530am to prepare myself for the trip to penang, while in the toilet, I heard some scrubbing sound from my neighbour. I ignore the sound initially but when it persist, I then realized that the sound was actually produce by someone doing laundry by hand.
I asked myself who now still wash their clothing by hand, aren't all of us in Singapore already own a washing machine? And why wash so early in the morning?
I began to wonder if it is a domestic helper that is doing this tiring job?

-- Post From My iPhone

Self respect

2009-04-25T02:34:00.001-07:00

Jackie Chan make a statement yesterday saying that Singaporeans have no self respect, the example he gave was that we Singaporean need to be control by the government, therefore we have no self respect. He further gave an example that if we try to litter in Singapore, the government will go after you.
He singled out that only the Japanese and the Americans have self respect.
I don't know how he can explain why the Japanese continue to kill whales under the flag of research purposes, and why the Americans continue to hbe racisim in their country, and how the rich was all alone abusing the system just for their own gains while ignoring millions of families that are facing financial difficulties.
Why does he want to make such statements?he is only a entertainer not a politician
-- Post From My iPhone

Saturday

2009-04-25T02:25:00.001-07:00

It's another Saturday, we are suppose to have a second viewing from the potential buyer but was change at the last minute.
Abby woke up at 630am in the morning, I wonder why she can get ip early on the Saturdays but not on the weekdays..
Mummy need to go to neways to buy comestic for Caroline, i hear from her that she is getting more cautious over what she use and eat after she was conceieved. So I have to take the kids home by bus, which they loved it anyway, and I just got to know today that Joshua now knows what is the bus number to go home.
I am now addicted to play MafiaLive, once I got home, settle the 2 little ones, I immediately hook up my iPhone to play. I was the target of the Body Collector 12 hours ago, I need to make sure more people join me before my trip to Penang.

-- Post From My iPhone

IMF says recession is deepening

2009-04-23T08:22:00.001-07:00

No recovery until the year 2010, world economy is going to contract 1.3% this year. Singapore will contract as much as 10%. The whole world is sick, from America to Europe to japan. Only china and India is expected to post better growth. But can we depend on them to pull out of this crisis? Fat hopes...my bet is the next epicenter of the crisis will come from one of this 2 countries.

-- Post From My iPhone

China Navy 60 anniverial

2009-04-23T07:19:00.000-07:00

Do you really believe that all china want for a strong navy is just for peace? That they are not aggressive?
If a country cannot even protect it's own people from abuse and ignore corruption, what is the value of their spoken words?

-- Post From My iPhone

Intensive farming

2009-04-22T07:26:00.001-07:00

A crocodile was called a murderer because it ate a human, but this is the nature of this animal, we humans are the one that invaded their terriority, yet we point the blame at the animal.
And we have factories that rear pigs, chicken and cows. The pigs are force to stay in a 66cm cage, their tails are cut off to prevent them from biting their tail, their teeth are taken out to prevent biting each other. They are injected with steroid and anti-botics.
The irony is that farmers that own this factory so not eat their own produce.
The chicks will not grow normally, their internal organs will not develop fully because it is the meat the farmer wants. Each chick will have life span of 8 weeks.
What kind of world we are living?

-- Post From My iPhone

What happens today?

2009-04-21T07:52:00.001-07:00

Dr M wanted the crooked bridge to be build, he said that business leaders in Johor wanted the bridge to revive the states's economy.
For what? The economy does not depend on the bridge, there are so many factors like a cleaner environment, better roads, better infrastruture. At least the new PM is wise enough to reject the idea.

China charms the world with english paper. This is an attempt to cover the world from the perspective of the Chinese people.
I wonder what they mean? Are they telling us that brain-washing the Chinese is not enough? Now they are trying to fool the world? Maybe the paper should first, tell the world how the milk scandal was handled, and second how land disbutes become so common in the villagers..

Red shirt leaders do not have enough of the protest in thailand. They are demanding the president to step down and hold a fresh election. Well, as long as the military wears green, in my humble opinion, this is a difficult task.

Author JG Ballard, died at the age of 78. He was the author of the book Empire of the Son.
-- Post From My iPhone

Abby cry again

2009-04-21T07:26:00.001-07:00

My little girl cried again, fearing that she will dropped her tooth in the middle of the night, but her worried was short-life after seeing joshua playing with paper aeroplane. One moment she was crying , the next moment she was laughing and playing.

-- Post From My iPhone

U shape market curve

2009-04-21T06:44:00.001-07:00

Cash rich imvestors are ready to buy property in singapore, however market continues to be soft throughout the year 2009.
Stock market may bottom up in 3 - 6 months time.

-- Post From My iPhone

Abby's tooth ache

2009-04-20T08:41:00.001-07:00

During my trip to Melaka, abby went to visit a dentist to check on her bad tooth, she was scare the day before, and was worried about the pain she was about to feel.

The dentist however did not remove her tooth, he indeed confirmed she had a loose tooth but do not want to remove for her because she was crying furoiosly, he told that it us better for the tooth to drop by itself then to forcefully remove for her, which may result with a bad experience that may haunt her into her teenage years.

Well that was 2 weeks ago, today she was still crying over her bad tooth, mummy has been praying for her, so too did Joshua..let's hope that when the day her tooth drop she feels no pain.

-- Post From My iPhone

Kingfisher in the family

2008-12-22T06:54:00.000-08:00

date: 19 Dec 08
Our part time maid caught a small kingfisher in the evening and show it to me. She found it at the void deck, helpless and tired. Without even bother to struggle the bird allow her to hold her.
i put the bird in a make-shift cage and throw in some cooked rice, took a picture and decided to ask the bird shop owner the type of bird.
It is a very small bird, with long beak, and there are shades of blue at the back. The shop owner could not figure out what type of bird , but finally after some thoughts told me it must be a kingfisher. He told me to buy some fishes for the bird to eat before it got too weak.
So abby, joshua and me walked to the fish shop and asked for small fishes that are suitable for birds, instead of helping me, he suggest to continue to feed the bird with rice for 2 days first before feeding fish.
So, as a first timer in rearing bird, i decided to take his advise..

Singapore Embassy In Thailand

2008-12-10T21:27:00.001-08:00

What is the role of Embassy? I do not know, but when helpless singaporeans were there to seek help, the embassy cannot provide any? They have no clue to handle the massive incoming calls within 2 days of the protests in BKK.
The only advise from them was to take a bus or train down to Hadyat and then to Penang. Anan later tell me softly that the least the Embassy should do is to chartered a bus and organised worried Singaporeans to bring them out of the city.

What is the role of the Embassy?

Thailand : nov to dec 08

2008-12-03T22:15:00.000-08:00

I arrived in thailand with a fever. That nite leng told me over skype that Abby was also having high fever.
The temperature i BKK was unbearable, hotter than my fever. I was sick for the next 3 days, going back to the hotel after customers visit and no dinner during these period.
On thursday, i was getting better and managed a plate of spagetti i Sum Luan nite market.
The protestors started to occupy the Main Airport on Wednesday and that affected our trip to Chiang mai, thanks God i asked Leng to cancel her flight, not that i do not want her to come, but i am also not comfortable with Abby.
I stayed in BKK over the weekend, and on saturday, book a flight from Chiang Mai to Singapore via Silkair, but the flight will not leave until 5th Dec 08.
The train journey was one itinery i did not anticipate. All along i do not trust train, and my hunch was correct. The train broke down for 4 hrs during the journey, and i arrived in Chiang Mai at 1230m, thus missing my flight back to Singapore, which i believe Singapore Embassy arrange for me.

Joshua first Music class

2008-10-05T08:06:00.000-07:00

We registered Joshua for his first music class in Verve. The class starts at 945am on the saturday (4th october 08), and the plan was to have Abby accompany him to the class.
On Friday, Joshia came to tell me that he is now 3years old and is going to the music class, at first i do not understand what he say, but after a while, i got amuse the way he say.
On the actual day, we were 10 mins late, and he refuse to step into the class. The teacher told us that it is normally for little kids like him to reject for the 1st time because he is not used to the envirnoment. So in the end, we have to postphone one week later.

Abby's 5th Birthday

2008-09-22T20:44:00.000-07:00

A week without Mummy, and both the grandmothers

2008-07-28T07:51:00.000-07:00

This was one of the most challenging week i have ever experience. My mum went to Eastern Europe on the 15th july, Leng's mum left for Austrialia on the 18th July, and Leng herself went to America on the 21st July. So i was left with the 2 kids with my dad..haha, what a plan by God....
the only problem i had was only the first day, when leng left for the airport at 430am....
Abby knew she is leaving and she woke up at 4am looking for her mother, finally after much persuading and talking to her, she reluctantly let go of her mother, but she wanted to sleep on the sofa at the living room until she woke up by herself at 7am in the morning.
She did not cry when she was awake, instead she was overcome her anxiety, and even demand garlic from me...

Picture of the family

2008-07-28T07:46:00.001-07:00

Abby and Joshua posting while waiting for the soya bean dessert.

A picture of the family.

Joshua Cut his hair

2008-07-28T04:39:00.001-07:00

This is the 2nd hair cut at the same saloon. We spend $6.00 just to have his hair done, and 2 sweets just to have him sit quietly on the chair.

This is my pretty girl admiring her brother's new hair style.

Joshua Stops wearing diapers

2008-07-22T20:39:00.000-07:00

Joshua stopped wearing diapers this year when i gave him a good caning. I have been asking him repeatly if he need to visit the toilet but he will tell me that he do has no 'water' to release. When he urinate, i got so angry that i cane him and punished him by telling him to stand at the spot where he did his business. Amazing, the next day, he started to tell us that he wanted to urine.

My favorite picture

2008-05-16T06:47:00.000-07:00