This post is long overdue. Is moving 2 small children, a cat and 65 cubic metres of household particulars all the way across Asia a good excuse? I hope so, because that’s the only one I’ve got.

I’ve got a big batch of photos for you, but first a little chit-chat.

Bali

We took a visit to Bali in October before we left Shanghai so that Sharon could get a break before starting her new job. We went with Por-por, Kong-kong, Uncle Arthur and Aunty Iling, and had a great time lolling about at the beach. The girls really enjoyed playing in the shallows at low tide and I got some really good shots of them at sunset.

Shanghai to Singapore

The move to Singapore went smoothly, but it’s never easy. So many things to look after and (for me) learn about the new country. It’s a world away from Shanghai – warm, tropical climate, clean air and lots of good food – but much more expensive! The girls seemed to adapt very well, perhaps because they had visited several times before and all the familiar family and friends are here. They do miss their Ayis Nancy and Lilly, though.

Birthdays, Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year

We arrived to a long procession of celebrations, starting with Edie’s and Ilse’s second birthdays in October. We had a party in Shanghai and another little one in Singapore. This was swiftly followed by Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year. I think there was Hari Rajah in there somewhere as well, although I’m not entirely clear on what that is.

Elephant Poo

There is SO much for the children to do here. We have an annual membership to the zoo and bird park and go at least once a month. One of the most fascinating events is the 9:30 elephant feeding, where visitors can give them carrots and apples. During one of these sessions, one of the elephants (who are lolling in a large pond just below the walkway) did a large poo into the water, to the utter amazement of Edie and Ilse. This became a talking point for days to come and was raised in any conversation at any time:

“Come along, Edie, let’s get your pajamas on”
“Want fairy ones”
“OK, here are the ones with the fairy on.”
“Elephant did a poo”
“Yes, he did.”

“What would you like for breakfast, Ilse?”
“Elephant did a poo”
“Yes. Yes, a big poo.”

And so on. We’ve moved on from that now. Next items of interest: giraffe feeding and water slides.

The Tantrum Era (TE)

We have entered the Tantrum Era, which in Ilse’s case, sounds something like this:

“I want it! I want it!”
“OK, here you are, but don’t forget to say please.”
“DON’T want it! NO!”
“I thought you wanted it?”
“I want it”
“Here”
“NO! DON’T WANT IT! Waaaaaaaaaaaa!”

She starts her agitation by shaking her hands, then her whole arms, then starts jumping up and down and finally when the screams erupt, hurls herself backwards. Normal toddler, I guess. Edie has them as well, but isn’t quite as violent. Yet.

Here is the mammoth set of pics. See the slide show by clicking on the link and maximising the window.

Sep '11 - Feb '12, 90 Photos

» Show as slideshow in new window.

Beach photos from Bali, saying goodbye in Shanghai, family meals in Singapore, Christmas, visits to the zoo, the botanic gardens and lots of playing.