Do you realize that the expectations for being a good dad are completely different now as compared to generations ago? Traditionally, Dads were not expected to emotionally connect with their children, being a good dad simply meant being a breadwinner or a provider for the family.

TODAY, it’s about being a breadwinner and a caretaker. Modern dads build a strong, healthy and close relationship with their children. They are a much more hands-on bunch of caregivers too, and we should be really grateful for that.

Last night, I had a short talk with V and I asked him how fatherhood has changed him. His answer was, “It has changed me in many ways – I’m a happier man and I’m more fulfilled. I’m definitely more responsible now and I’ve no idea how happy our dear son can make me.”

He further commented that being a good dad is not easy, but it’s definitely something that he has to take on seriously. His happiest time is to hang out with Little Edison after a busy day at work.

If he asks me the same question, I think the most obvious change in him is that he is no longer annoyed by little children running and screaming around. When he was a single, he dislikes rowdy, noisy and hyperactive children. His face turned sour when little kids ran around and bumped onto him.

But today, he will smile at them and ask them questions like, “Hi, what’s your name?” or “Be careful boy, do not fall down”. I roll my eyes whenever I hear him engaged in a kiddie conversation with the little children. And of course, I’m happy to see that.

To our always hardworking and committed Daddy V and all the dads as well as dads-to-be out there, I wish all of you a very Happy Father’s Day!

It’s cousin time! They look so sweet together.

This is probably my first post on family dynamics. In general, I think we have it very good. My parents-in-law are staying in Serangoon and it’s about 15 minutes drive from our home in Sengkang. We meet each other almost every day. We have outings at least once a month.

My parents-in-law are incredibly helpful and supportive to us. They adore and take care of Little Edison unconditionally. For that, I’m really very grateful to them. I can focus on my career because I’m certain that my son is well taken care of.

Surprisingly enough, I think our relationship has gotten better since Little Edison was born. He is the “mutual interest” in our relationship. They love Little Edison as much as I do. Despite her health problems, my mother-in-law still takes good care of us and cooks for us. I’ve learned to embrace her enthusiasm and appreciate her adoration for my son.

I’m fortunate that I haven’t had any major parents-in-law issues. That being said, I’ve been very open and flexible in building my relationship with them from the very beginning of my marriage. My parents-in-law love me as much as their own flesh and blood. I’ll always keep this in my mind. I, too, will love them and take care of them as my own parents.

I’ve discovered in the five years of my marriage, that LOVE and RESPECT for our parents-in-law is the key. Most importantly, we should never get into an argument or confrontation with them and force our spouse to take sides. On the other hand, we should never vent our family problems to either set of our parents too.

How do you fare in dealing with your in-laws? Are there things about them that drive you mad? Are you able to discuss the issues with your spouse? And lastly, do you have any rules of thumb to share on this topic? I love to hear from you.

We all know that treating our mothers to something beautiful on Mother’s Day is essential. They need to know that they’re loved and appreciated, and just a Mother’s Day card alone is not enough.

Mothers do everything for their families. From cooking, cleaning, educating and childcare to inculcating good values to her children, mothers do whatever it takes to impart warmth and comfort to their loved ones.

Mothers become nurses when any family member falls sick. They are always there to offer advice, be it on relationships, troubles at school or at work. Till today, I still need the wise assistance and advice from my mother or mother-in-law, especially when it comes to family and childcare issues.

What I really like about Mother’s Day is that it’s also a family bonding day. Too often, children are preoccupied with school and the husband and/or the wife are preoccupied with work. This day allows everyone to spend quality time together. It’s a good chance to bond with the other members of the family too.

Everyone gets together and share a meal. We can also go for movies or outings together. No matter how we spend the day, it usually means the same thing – spending quality time with each other AND with the emphasis on making it special for mommy.

There are many reasons to celebrate Mother’s Day but the essence of this day is still to show LOVE and appreciation for our dear mothers. I’d like to wish all Mothers out there a very Happy Mother’s Day!

We went for buffet dinner at Spice Brasserie in Parkroyal Hotel to celebrate this special day. Here are some family pictures to share:

Tomorrow is the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival. This festival is important for the Chinese for its historical value. On this day, family members who are working abroad will return to their hometown to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. They will gather under the full moon, eat mooncakes, pomelos and dates in the open air. Children will carry lanterns in assorted shapes and sizes.

When I was a child, I really looked forward to this festival every year. I can still remember how I used to play paper lanterns with lighted candles with my siblings and neighbours. We walked around the village carrying our lanterns. We lined up colorful candles on the gates and light up the entire place. The atmosphere was lively. I really miss those days.

Anyway, I’m really thankful that mooncakes exist on this festival because they’re one of the most amazing treats in the world. I like the traditional mooncakes with lotus paste and salted egg yolks. Nowadays, there are many more innovative versions of mooncakes – ice-cream mooncakes, durian mooncakes and even the liquer ones. Personally, I really like snowskin mooncakes that are served chilled because of their soft and chewy texture.

Last year, our neighbour bought a battery-operated lantern with music for Little Edison. However, the music was too loud and he freaked out whenever we turned it on. At the end, he never played with that lantern at all. This year, Godpa bought him a paper lantern with candle. We think that he is old enough to handle the candle this year. He loves it so much. Traditional paper lanterns are still the best!

Happy Mooncake Festival everyone!