CLAK in Japan (Tokyo)

I love the land of the rising sun.  Food had always been the top of my list, and not forgetting the hospitality in the Japanese culture and of course the nice weather.  Bringing the girls to Japan for a holiday had been on my mind for the longest time.  I worried a lot about the radiation to the girls but after speaking to a few doctors, I decided to just stop being worrisome and enjoy the destination.  We planned 7 months ahead because we heard about rooms being sold out in popular ski resorts.  We planned a 16 days holiday; 16 days also partly due to the fact that my helper is going for her home leave for 3 weeks and I thought being away would be the best way to avoid the chaos at home.  We finally decided on Tokyo and Hokkaido.  Tokyo for the Disneyland and Hokkaido for the snow.

Red eye flight into Tokyo. The kiddos slept throughout while Daddy and Mummy became their pillows.  We arrived deadbeat and stiffed.  Because of my prior experience of the teeny weeny rooms in Japan with Mum in May, we wanted bigger rooms because the kiddos would be running around in the room.  We tried the Hilton at Odaiba City this time.  We were very impressed with the size of the room given. It came with a nice view of the rainbow bridge. Due to its close proximity to Aqua City and Diver City,  staying at the Hilton Odaiba was pleasant.  Nice restaurants were 2 mins walk away and there were alot of kids’s activities in Daiba. Hilton Odaiba is a good neighbour hotel of Disneyland and thus there were free shuttle for us to and fro Disneyland and Disneysea.

Although we had a week in Tokyo, we planned our schedule leisurely.  Daddy always liked his holiday the chillax way and with Alexis around, there was no way to be chillax. If I were to pack the schedule, I would end up with a grumpy Daddy.  We are late risers and daylight in Tokyo was short during winter. With that, we basically had a few hours a day to walk around.  Once the sky turned dark, the weather became too cold for all of us to stay outdoor.

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

We were told that the LEGOLAND is small and we would probably be disappointed. However it turned out that we had to beg the kids to leave.  The centre was indeed small but the kids were so engrossed into the activities. They had indoor playgrounds, 4D cinema, an interactive lego laser ride and a lego model building class.

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Tokyo
Island Mall 6F, Decks Tokyo Beach,
1-6-1 Daiba, Minato-ku,
Tokyo 135-0091

Tokyo Disneyland

Initially we set aside 3 days for Disneyland and Disneysea. After visiting Disneyland for the 1st day, we decided to just keep the other 2 days to visit other places in Tokyo. Disneyland Tokyo was alright.  Just that the feel we had was too similar to Hongkong.  It was really crowded too, each ride took us at least 45min to queue.  A few of the roller coasters were also closed for maintenance.  The kids were disappointed with that.   The restaurants were also jam packed with park goers. We had a hard time getting tables and queuing for food. Good thing was we all had the magical feel that was always given during a visit to the Disneyland.  Get the tickets at Disney stores in the city Disney Store or online to avoid the queue.

Tokyo Disneyland

 

Tsukiji Fish Market

We were initially told that the fish market would be relocated by the end of 2016.  Good news for us! The relocation has been moved back till further notice.  Getting to the fish market was rather straightforward via the train.  We brisked through the inner market. There was tuna auction on most days but limited to the 1st 120 visitors per day.  The auction would start at 5am and queue could form as early as at 2am.  We got our brunch fixed at the outer market, it was rather hard for us as we were walking around with the stoller.  For mummies going there with your bubs, use a baby carrier instead. The streets were crowded and it was literally impossible for our stroller to pass through.   Do check their website for the calendar and opening days.

Tsukiji Fish Market Website

 

Sensoji Temple

My 2nd time here in 2016.  Visited the famous temple with the kiddos and soaked in the atmosphere of the busy streets vendors and rich culture.  A brief stop before we headed over to Tokyo Skytree which was one train station away.

 

Pokémon Centre at Skytree

Add: 1-1-2 Oshiage | Tokyo Solamachi, Sumida 131-0045, Tokyo Prefecture

Do not expect much at this venue. It is merely a merchandise store that sells a lot of toys and souvenirs. However even though it was just that,  that was enough to make the kids go crazy.

 

Meiji Jingu

Love the tranquillity of this place.  Lauren left her wishes here.

 

Owl Café Harajuku

This small café exceeded our expectation.  60 min session was truly educational and highly recommended. Lauren had the chance to interact with all the owls and even handled them on her arms.  Booking is required so make sure you reserve your slot at the link above before you head down.  If animal café is your cup of tea, there is another cat café down the road. Mocha Cat Café

 

Off to our next destination, Hokkaido!!

 

 

 

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Thinkasaur – where Learning science is made Fun

Think Thinkasaur, think fun science experiments for the whole family sent to you right at your door step.  Designed chiefly for children between the ages of 5 to 10 years old, Thinkasaur comes in the form of a science kit that provides the full spectrum of materials, equipment, instruction manuals and learning points for up to four experiments per box. Each box covers a specific scientific theme, such as chemistry, physics and Earth science.   Thinkasaur strives to bring back the wonders of Do-It-Yourself fun by providing a monthly subscription-based service that delivers boxes packed with science experiments straight to your doorsteps!  In this modern era, kids are now overly dependent on electronic gadgets for entertainment.  I have to admit that we as parents are guilty of doing that too, quite often we are always on our devices even though we are seated together.  We are very blessed when Thinkasaur approached us for a review of their products.  I knew straightaway that it would be a hit with Lauren.

Thinkasaur. Where fun is never extinct

Receiving Thinkasaur boxes (Sponsored Review)

Experimenting Thinkasaur with Lauren and Alexis brought back memories where I was so eager to collect all the Science card badges during my primary school days. I remember going around my neighbourhood with my classmates exploring different tasks and we were always amazed by the outcome of the experiments.

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Young Scientist badges

 

We received 3 boxes from Thinkasaur.  The girls were so excited to see the boxes and curiosity was instantly aroused from that moment.  Each box contains 3 to 4 fun-filled experiments. We started with the Wonder of Colours box. I have to compliment Thinkasaur for such a well thought and planned experiments.  Aprons and gloves were provided for experiments that were a little messy.  Each experiment was individually wrapped in ziplock bags with all the materials needed so we did not need to fumble for anything when working on the experiments.  There were detailed step-by-step pictorial instructions to guide us through the experiments, a learning guide filled with fun facts to explain the science behind each experiment.  I love the quality bonding, and yet educational, time I had with the girls.

 

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Wonders of Colours from Thinkasaur

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What is inside the box

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Alexis listening attentively while Lauren was explaining the science behind each experiment

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The young scientist at work

Thinkasaur, Wonders of Colours

Look at the amazing effect!

 

 

It was so fun that Lauren begged for another project the next morning.

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 Working on project #2 together

 

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Look at her elephant trunk!

 

We tried projects from the other boxes too and the girls were totally intrigued with the effects of reaction which were well documented with scientific facts. Lauren has not started science in her academic curriculum but this had certainly  triggered her interest in chemistry which I am very glad. Early exposure to science, made in a very fun way.

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Inside the box of Thinkasaur Magnet Magic

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Thinksaur Crazy Chemistry

 

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Working on Project Lava Lamp

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Following the steps from the instruction manual

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In anticipation of the result

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The wow effect has arrived

 

What I love about Thinkasaur:

  1. Time efficient and hassle-free: As a full time working mum and wife to a frequent flyer.  Time is an essence for me. Thinkasaur solved this aspect by sending me fun activities which I can spend quality time with my girls right at home. I do not need to crack my brain about sourcing the materials needed to do any experiment.
  2. Cost effective: Each box comes with 3 to 4 experiments.  I told Lauren that we will do one experiment weekly.  Mum does not need to fret over where to bring the girls on a Saturday now as they are so looking forward to going home for fun science experiments.
  3. Quality family time:  It was heartwarming looking at the photos of us doing the experiments together. Everyone was so happy and involved. Furthermore, everyone learnt something new.
  4. Last but not least, Thinkasaur made learning science a very fun process. Extremely effective for children of young age. These tools EDUCATE yet do not extract the FUN from the process. I had never thought that Learning and Playing could be integrated.

 

Thinkasaur subscription programmes are offered either on a 6-month period at $43/month or a 12-month period at $40/month and are available for purchase online at www.thinkasaur.com. Alternatively, single boxes are available for purchase at $48/box. These could make a great birthday gift, more in fact an “anytime” gift!

Thinkasaur is offering CLAK readers a 5% discount on your orders with code “BACK2SCHOOL” . Following terms and conditions apply.

  • Limited to 1 use only per customer
  • Limited to 100 redemptions
  • Only valid for orders above SGD$40
  • Discount code is valid till 28 Feb 2017
  • Discount code cannot be combined with other codes and promotions

 

Reviews provided are totally independent and non-biased.

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We are going to the BIGGEST, GRANDEST Baby Fair in Asia, Supermom Baby Fair!!!

Baby Fair MBS

Supermom Baby Fair

 

To a shopaholic like me; the words, Biggest and Grandest would magnified with sparkle right before my eyes.  Combine it with Baby Fair, I am running for my wallet and car key.  It is Supermom Baby Fair at Marina Bay Sands this year.  Dear mummies, please block your calendar from 17 to 19 February 2017. With over 1,000 international brands & more than 100,000 products, this will be the best time for parents to try, test and compare all sorts of products right under one roof.  What’s more, parents can shop directly with so many brand owners and distributors for the best deals and discounts.

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Brands at Supermom Baby Fair

 

Browsing through their website already had me jotting down the list of things I am going to grab at the fair. To help better prepare my visit to the fair, I can start shortlisting the starbuys from as low as $1 at this link. From what I have marked, I would have a gauge of how much I would likely be spending at the event.  Then, the best part of the fair is I can also get Supermom Cash vouchers at 25% discount!!!  How it works is, if I am going to spend $1000 from my shortlisted items, I can get the  Supermom cash vouchers here at only $750!!! Here is the link to the get the cash vouchers  

In addition, to celebrate this Post CNY Blowout event, parents can redeem a $188 Ang Bag Bag for every $50 spent from 17-19 February 2017 (while stocks last)

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Held in conjunction with Supermom Baby Fair is the Supermom Luxe; which will be showcasing premium maternity, baby and kids products and brands on the cooler side of style and design for modern, savvy-chic parents who are starting a family.  With over 30 specially curated vendors, premium baby clothes, maternity wear, accessories, nursery decors and many more.  There is even going to be the 1st ever Junior Fashion Show at the event!!!  This will be the only kids show in Asia lending its platform to Asia’s up-and-coming designers alongside the world’s most iconic international designers.

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I have to say the organizer of the event had really put much efforts and thoughts for their shoppers in all aspects. From  beautifully designed diaper changing and nursing rooms, stroller rental, bag drop-offs to home delivery services for parents’ convenience.  These amenities and services that are never seen before in other baby fairs are added in an effort to make the entire experience a comfortable one not just for the little ones but also for every mum and dad.

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Supermom is offering CLAK’s reader a $5 voucher to use at the fair. All you need to do is to sign up for the voucher here with the discount code of “CLAK5“.  Limited to the 1st 50 signups*. So hurry and sign up NOW!!! *Collect the vouchers at the  Supermom Baby Fair redemption booth between 17 to 19 Feb 2017.

 

Signed up already.  You will be glad to know that to help mummies & daddies save even more, SuperMom will also be offering the following additional transportation perks:

  • Spent a minimum of $88 and get $5 off the next Comfort Delgro taxi ride home from 17-19 February 2017 (promo code will be provided)
  • $8 flat fee for parking at Halls E & F when customers flash the SuperMom website at Loading Bay entrance
  • Spent a minimum of $388 and get a refund of $8 for parking at Halls E & F only
  • Spent a minimum of $588 and get complimentary Valet Parking offered only at the Valet Parking located at the pick-up/drop-off outside The Shoppes/Casino Driveway only
  • For more details & T&Cs, please visit http://babyfair.supermom.com.sg/venue-info
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Goodbye 2016. Hello 2017

I am still thinking how 2016 has gone by in the blink of an eye.  Well, 2016 had been fantastic for me and I pray for 2017 to be as good or even better.  I travelled leisurely to Sydney, Bangkok, Tokyo, Kyoto, Hongkong, Bangkok (again), Tokyo and Hokkaido in 2016.  Wow.. That was alot of travelling indeed!  I got a new exciting job where I am reunited with a lot of my excellent ex-colleagues.  Lauren’s school work and piano exam results were good too! There is really nothing much that I would ask for.  Ok, If I can be greedy to ask for 1 more thing; that would be to have a miracle for my mum’s illness. Mum is doing good now with her battle with breast cancer and I pray for her to be strong and be long live.

To hope that 2017 to be better,  I need to make some changes to my life.  As what Albert Einstein said, Insainity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. Thus, I have to set new resolutions for 2017 to hope that 2017 would be a bang.  Here are my list:

  1. Patience– Kel requested this to be on the top of the list. I have to admit I am super impatient. So I have to keep this in mind; Patience is not about the ability to wait but the ability to keep a good attitude while waiting – “never say or do things that you do not mean it as that may cause hurt to others unintentionally”.
  2. To spend more time with Mum– Mum is battling with stage 4 breast cancer. Although she is optimistic about the situation, I know she is shakened deep down inside her.  So 2017, I will want to have a meal with her at least once a week.  To try my best to put her medical appointments ahead of anything else.  To not have so much expectations on her, I tend to have high expectations for my mum and this has caused some friction between us everytime we argue.
  3. To work out at least twice weekly– I used to work out daily during my cabin crew days.  I would made time to work out even if I had a function.  Then after having Lauren, it became workout once in a while.  Lately I started to be more diligent but definitely there is room for improvement.
  4. To be more mindful of time– Because I am so impressed with the Japanese’s way of being punctual, this has became one of my resolutions for 2017 too.  I think I will start with setting my watch 15 min faster.
  5. To write more– I started this blog last year after quitting my job because I thought I was going to be a SAHM and I wanted to keep myself busy. I ended up joining another company and was busier than before.  My blog posts also dropped  because of this. In 2017 I hope to set aside time to write more often.

I shall not be too adventurous to set too many resolutions. Let me keep to these 5 for now.  To everyone reading this, Happy New Year and let’s have a whopping good 2017!

Happy 2017

Happy New Year from CLAK

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Pokemon Go Fever and its effect on me

Walking around shopping centres and parks now, you would probably be greeted with people of all ages with their eyes fixated and fingers swiping on their phone screens. If you happened to peek into what they were looking at, 85% of the time, you would see Pokemon on their screen.

I was hesitant to download the game because I knew I would be glued to it.  One fine day while waiting for Lauren to be dismissed from her class. I downloaded the game and it has gotten a lot of my attention ever since; I couldn’t explain why the game is so addictive. Probably because you could show others how you managed to get hold of some truly rare pokemons.  Within 2 hours of downloading, I captured 12 different species.  Now 4 weeks into the game, I caught more than 1200 pokemons and have a cool 124 different pokemons. I convinced Kel to play too. Telling him that it is the latest frenzy now – “just get a feel of it and it could be a ice breaker”. Personally I feel Pokemon Go got its pros and cons.

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Lauren and her Pikachu

 

Pros:

  • It makes couples who play together grow closer. Kel and I will discuss what pokemons we had and any new species caught that day and where we caught it.  We gave each other silly ideas of how to catch pokemons and often laughed over it.  It has turned into a common interest of ours now.
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Kel and I catching some pokemons before our dinner date

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Kel catching the Europe exclusive Mr Mime for me

  • Its makes my relationship with Lauren much more interesting and engaging. I often told others that I was very guilty of not giving Lauren enough love. Indeed I gave her a lot of my time but she did not get my patience. More often than not, my time with her were homework time, time practicing piano and time spent on the road when sending her to her enrichment classes. Our conversations were also often about how school was, did she practice piano, etc. Ever since we played Pokemon Go (Lauren plays on my phone or Kel’s phone), I could feel us being closer and more connected “like a friend”. Not the authoritative Mummy asking about school work but fun Mummy asking Lauren to come and see what Mummy had caught for the day. To make her piano practicing fun, I told her that her beautiful music made catching pokemons easier, the music were lures to the Pokemons. Voila.. Lauren played much better with that idea.

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  • Ice breaker to business contacts. I have a difficult customer and guess what? Talking about Pokemons became a door opener for me. Nowadays everytime I see my customers talking about pokemons, I will quickly jumped into the conversation. From strangers, we would become like long lost friends.
  • I become a Geo expert. Tell me anywhere on the Singapore map and I could almost instantly point out where it is; all these were from the help of Pokémon and Go Radar.

Cons:

  • Dangerous. Ok, I need to admit that when I was very into the game, I would walk and play at the same time.  There were a couple of times when I accidentally knocked into someone. I had also heard about some people even played while driving; I think that is truly dangerous. In other countries, many robberies took place at pokestops which were situated at very secluded areas.
  • Disconnected with your surrounding.  Many times people were so engrossed in what is happening in the virtual world that they forgotten that their loved ones who were right next to them. I had constantly reminded myself to involve those around me.

There are supposed to have more Cons than Pros but because we are all so into the game now. Let’s just focus on the Pros. Just remember to do everything in moderations. 🙂

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