New Exhibition at Science Centre - The Copernican Principle

It has been a while since I last stepped into the Science Centre (I think I go to KidsSTOP more often). With the launch of the roving exhibition on The Copernican Principle, I thought it was a good time to drop by. To be quite frank, I would think the Copernican Principle is quite a complex concept to grapple and Mr Jan Świerkowski, founder of Instytut B61, a science artist did put good effort to curate retro games that were engaging and fun. 

Copernican basically modelled a universe which place Sun rather than our Earth in the center (very revolutionary in his time). The exhibition explored more philosophical elements of the principle though its games - to stop centering around ourselves and start thinking about how our actions can impact the greater universe. 

The exhibition of the The Copernican Principle is not huge but rather impactful. Maybe because they were arcade games, the exhibition was very relatable and popular with the teens. My kid and I had to hang around a bit before we got to play it :) But not to worry, Science Centre is pretty huge and filled with other thoughtful exhibitions. I was quite impressed with how the educators managed to simplify science and make it engaging. 

While we were there, we also explored other exhibitions - such as the active ageing, the concept of fear and oil distillation. I think the older kids would enjoy the fear exhibition. But I chickened out with my kid because I don't handle darkness, clowns well. Some of the exhibitions was quite difficult to explain to my toddler, but it did spark innate curiosity in him along with endless questions. And I think that is a good first step to explorational learning. 

Not all the exhibitions hit me on the right spot. Personally, I am quite freaked out by creepy crawlies (a whole tank of stick insects, somebody spare me please), and AI as human companionship. Much as it was a learning journey for the kids, it was also one for the adults. The world is revolving and I really need to keep up my pace on its development. Science Centre is complimentary on weekdays (non-peak), I guess this gives me a good excuse to come back more and re-learn. 

For those with toddlers, you can check out the waterworks exhibition. I am not sure how much scientific learning is embedded within, but one thing I can guarantee, the toddlers enjoy it. No photos this time round cos time was scarce, but the younger one went once and was wild about it. :)

Staycation at The Bus Collective

If you are into novel travels or parents whose kids love "The Wheels on the Bus", this is a "hotel" you should not missed. It is quite new so it is relatively unknown, but somehow the husband spotted this and I found a good deal on Klook. Currently Klook offers the lowest price. With the discount code "Babynfamklook",  I managed to get it at a more reasonable price of "below S$300 a night", so off we were. 

We have read a few reviews ahead, so we kinda of had some expectations. We knew there will be frequent planes flying ahead (but no, the soundproofing was pretty good at night), we expected the ants/ bugs (so we brought our own mozzie patch, insecticide spray) and we anticipated the poor ventilation (just on the aircon throughout noon to keep your bus cool). To be honest, none of these were deal-breakers or even much of a big deal. 

We took a 4-bedder bus so we could squeeze more people in it (more value for money). :P Mandatory thing we did was to do our check-in photos! Whether in the day or night, the kids were clamoring over the bus seat. Although the bus was no longer functioning, most of the buttons could still be jabbed on and the steering wheel could still be turned. Even at night the photos turned out great!

We were assigned the bus closest to the restaurant area. It was not the most private bus but we suspected that the discounted Klook buses were a reserved few, that were not as premium in their location . Not that it was a problem because there were not many who patronised the inside dining area. Given that we had a stroller, the less aesthetic cement path was easier to navigate instead of a pebbled path. And we always had a clear view of the sky at our outdoor deck when the planes flew by. 

If you have checked on their location, you will know how isolated this place is. True enough, there is nothing much within walking distance in that area. Within half day, we knew we have exhausted the "things to do" around there. We did a 3D2N and basically, we still found enough things to do, just that most were day activities. There was a playground right at the doorstep but it was pretty worn. The one at the Pier is way better. 

Because I think we have quite a solid plan, I am going to share our itinerary here:

Day 1:

- Lunch at Smith Marine Floating Restaurant (Singapore's only kelong)

- Check in at The Bus Collective

- Prepare for BBQ in the afternoon

Day 2  - Realised Pulau Ubin was not very suitable for the kids and replaced with horse riding at Gallop Stable (read or review here) instead.

- Explore Changi Village Hawker Centre

- Explore Pulau Ubin and the pier area

- Dinner at Cosford Container Park 

Day 3

- Breakfast at Changi Village Hawker Centre

- Check out at 11am

** Use the discount code "BABYNFAMKLOOK" for 5% Discount For All Klook Activities with min. spend of SGD50. Discount capped at SGD15.

As for the playground, there is one right at the doorstep of The Bus Collective. However, I found it a bit old. The playground at the pier was definitely worth a walk to. As for the BBQ, you should opt for it if you don't intend to go out. Most reviews were not very informative on this. Basically, you could either bring your own food/supplies or purchase from the restaurant within or  the BBQ store at the Changi Village. 

The staff will not help you to set up the pit (not electric by the way) whether or not you purchase from their restaurant. The items sold within are quite limited though very reasonably priced, so consolidate a list and purchase from the BBQ to prevent multiple times there (My husband went there 3 times LOL!)

Generally, our staycay to The Bus Collective was a good recharge as it felt like we went overseas without the over-zealous packing. I would describe it as an atas chalet which also came with a novelty factor. I think we might actually go again, but with a few years break in-between. To note, there can be quite a bit of ants because it is quite an outdoorsy thing and  especially if you bring food/ milk (like us). It was still bearable but you just need to remind yourself not to leave food out in the open. 

Another thing I did was to toss food waste (and diapers) into our outdoor bin instead of our indoor bin and that helps greatly. And for those who wonder, every night I would collapse the stroller and park it within the bus. Lotsa space! Hope this review helps those who are planning a trip there!

The BEST buffet for parents - Edge

Truly, you never know what you miss out until you experience it. Edge recently introduced a Kids Play Area and it is such a game changer. Just to caveat, my kids are pretty manageable in the grand spectrum so I always got the better deal. I felt I could really enjoy a meal. I have always been full of praise for Edge  (read my reviews here), but with the play area, the husband and I finally had some we-time and the food never tasted better. 

What's special about this play area is its own little dessert table that was catered to their height. The kids could scoop the candies themselves and also enjoy the chocolate fondue. Literally every child came out with "brown chocolatety lips". There was also a talented face paint artist who could draw whatever the kids want. 

Some tips on how to make your meal at Edge absolutely enjoyable, first of all, you need to request for the seats near the play area. You can either make sure they finish their meal first before releasing them into the play area or let them go "free-and-easy". I did the latter and it didn't work out too bad. They would binge themselves crazy but would come out patiently to enjoy the nutritious meals we scooped for them. 

The kids spent a good deal of time in the room, which was very child-friendly and sufficiently entertaining. For the olders kids, they would gather the cushions and watch a movie playing in the background. I just had to exert eye-power, instead of chasing them around. We spent a total of 3 hours at the buffet (unprecedented) and for the first time in my life, the husband and I could have proper conversation over a meal. 

Because it was such a relaxing meal, I was even in the mood to beautify my drinks - I took some fruits from the station to make mocktails. The state of the mind does make a difference, I was more observant of the deco, architecture and variety of food (which my husband told me was nothing new and has always been there.) Guess my vision was always too focused on parenting the kids, I have missed out "the finer things in life" literally!

After our delightful meal, I couldn't help but broadcast to my friends, coworkers and mummy communities how wonderful this place was. It is perfect for birthday celebrations or just an anniversary meal. The kids could tag along without stressing the other attendees. Everyone could just have a good time and enjoy the food. <3

My new Fitbit - Versa 3

I am a person who is really quite adverse to change when it comes to gadget. When my Versa 2 started showing signs of slowing, I was slowly getting a panic attack. But, I also realise the inevitable was drawing near and I upgraded myself to Versa 3. And it is wayyyyyy better. I concluded I just don't like the setting up process. But once, things are in order, I usually love the new gadget. 

Quick notes on what I like to help those who are contemplating a purchase:

• The charging wire was better designed. To be quite frank, I have already went through 2 charging wires in a span of 3+ years for my Versa 2. And it was in what we called unsafe condition, somehow the rubbers at the edge would always fray. 
• The belt is uniquely designed and surprisingly comfy. My old loop broke, but mainly due to wear and tear. But this design doesn't even have a loop. 
• The interface remains the same. But the button at the side disappeared. Took me a while to adjust to it, but I love how sleek it has become. There is also a new sleep mode, which is more intuitive in brightness adjustment etc.
• I can now receive calls on my fitbit. How cool is that? Haha. 

9.9 Shopee LOTD Winner

Those who know will know that I love investing in my children's outfits. (It is like playing with real life dolls.) I guess my good taste in style  is being acknowledged. So proud of this girl, her orange LOTD snagged her a winner title from Shopee. I have to say lately she really found new love in posing for photographs and hogging the IG. To more modelling opportunities, meanwhile I guess she earn her "diaper money". Maybe we will get her something  nice with it. :)

Dress is from Little Kooma. 

 

McDonalds Baby Shark Bouncy Castle

 

School holidays are here and we really need to find things to do for the kids. McDonalds organised the Baby Shark Bouncy Castle (somewhat free) at Marina Square. We went on a weekend and the crowd was crazy. Personally, I thought the event was not very well organised because the first slot we were given was 2 hours later. It definitely messed up our plans. A parent before me complaint and I could fully emphatise. 

To get the free tickets, you could either spent $16 or redeem with 500MYM Rewards Points. We did one of each because we had 2 toddlers and I honestly couldn't imagine myself eating $32 of Mcdonalds. It was so crowded that most deals and sets ran out. We basically ordered whatever that was left. (Was pretty pleased I still managed to get a happy meal cos I really wanted the crocs keychain, super cute by the way).

Funny story (and you will probably know how disorganised they were), I ended up with the wrong order and probably had $32 of McDonalds' given the tons of hash browns I received. I swear I am off McDonalds for a while. We ended up changing our plans and got another slot later in the day so that the kids will get to play. They had so much anticipation. If I had told them we were going elsewhere and giving this place a pass, they would be absolutely crushed. 

As adults we got to accompany for free (yeah!), I slided down once and screamed my hearts out (it was scary). Adults get to legitimately play. Although each slot was only 30 mins, the kids were quite tired by the time we reached so 30 mins was more than enough for them to have fun and exhaust their energy fully. You still have to watch over the younger toddlers because they will be flung around cos their light weight.  Next stop they will be going to One Punggol, I still think it is worth a visit. By then, I believe they would have ironed out their logistics issues. 

Most Scenic Afternoon Tea - Pacific Emporium

 

Check out their atrium of Pan Pacific, can you believe it - we had our afternoon tea at the floating pods. This must be the biggest secret of afternoon tea history. The 2 toddlers joined and called the pods the spaceship. :P They spent a good deal of time walking across the bridge and coming back to the mothership for their beverage or snacks.

As a parent, sometimes I do get affected when others give us "the glare" when the children misbehave. The beauty of these pods was that it provided a private space. Also, sound don't really travel from one pod to another.  You can have good conversations without fear of disturbance - either from others or to others. 

Like other tea sets, each set comes with 3 tiered. If you have been following my tea journey, you would know that I prefer tea sets are less surfeiting. In terms of aesthetics, the set at  Pacific Emporium was delicately made, each worthy of a photo of its own. You will be pleased to hear that each piece is as tasty as it looks. I love all but was particularly impressed with the Singapore Chilli Crab Meat in Egg Custard with Mini Bun and Coconut Bandung with Chendol.

As we went on the weekday, we had the exclusive Raspberry Sakura Red Velvet and Pulut Hitam Brûlée Mousse. Weekday sets are cheaper priced at $68++ per person. However, if you are into a more "buffet-like" tea session, you may want to consider going on a weekend. For an extra $10 per pax, you can get to enjoy 5 live stations serving our local favourites, such as prawn noodle, assam laksa, rojak etc. 

Not because we are self-obsessed but because of the gorgeous ambience, we ended up taking a lot of photos as well. I am baffled why this isn't the top place to enjoy afternoon tea because this place just top my charts. The floating pod is definitely one-of-a-kind and the food was really good. As we couldn't finish all, we ended up bringing some back to share with the rest of the family. The food still maintained its standards. Even the pickiest in our household gave the affirmation nod. 

If you like local food and is looking for some fusion or a twist, do try this out. For tea, it is quite reasonably priced. And with the floating pod experience, it is an absolute bang for your bucks. I don't usually say this but you must check it out!

Myers And Briggs Personality Types

It seems personality test are back in fad. Even corporates arencouraging us to do it. Don't get me wrong, I love them (cos they are fun), but I hate it when the world us divide us and sort us into boxes and pre-determine what we will excel in. Presenting the Myers And Briggs Personality Types which have survived through countless years (LOL!). This is not the first time I am doing it. 

From my humble experience, my personality seems to switch slightly, depending on the situation I am stuck in. Each personality has its own strength and weakness, it is more important to work on your weaknesses and improve your strengths so that we can grow and develop as individuals. Go try it out if you haven't, this is the most detailed and insightful personality test. Do it a few times (once every 5 years) and you will understand what I mean by we grow into personalities that helps us overcome our current tribulations.