We've been hearing Melbourne laughter for the past one week. My god-daughter (and her older sister plus 2 cousins) are in town for a holiday. For obvious reasons, Rachael is spending more time with them than we are. They prefer to go shopping and do "girly" stuff. We've brought them out for makan makan but they hardly ate. I haven't seen the older sister yet but my own god-daughter is more grown-up and so pretty. And then there is the Australian slang. It's nice to see all of them having fun together again.....and now my daughter wants to go visit them in Melbourne on her own....hahaha......

Joshua started P1 this week at SJI(J). The first 3 days were 2 hour sessions. Some parents found this such a waste of time. They preferred to have just one day of this and throw the kids into the standard routine immediately from the 2nd day. I've gone through both types with Rach and Jon and I think it depends very much on the kid. I think boys tend to be more "man-jah" so this can slowly ease them into the routine. The parent who wanted the 2nd option had his child crying on the 2nd day until the parent promised to walk him up the hall. After that, the kid was all smiles. On the 3rd day, he had no problems. I think the real test comes a few days later when the boys realize what 1230 - 1830 in school is really like.

Joshua's teacher is Mrs Loh. She's been at the school for a long time, even before I was born. Apparently, she is a good teacher. She looks stern. Jon was never taught by her but knows of her reputation. So, we are not saying anything to influence Joshua's impression of her.

Rachael and Jonathan's view of starting school is nothing unexpected. Nevertheless, they are settling in quite nicely. Rachael's time table extends to 2.15 daily and Jonathan's to 1.30pm. Yes, I have a "problem".....Josh has to be in school by 12.45 while Jon is released at 1.30, yes 45 minutes to kill everyday except Wednesdays.. I'll probably become a United Square fan soon (for those who have forgotten, that is the shopping mall opposite SJI(J)).

Well, we'll probably go through another week of uncertainty until everybody's schedule is confirmed. Right now, I feel like I'm driving all over the place.....