Fiery Hot

We have been wanting to visit the Central Fire Station since Sophie was young, but somehow we just didn't do it until today. As usual, I had this idealistic image of our kids enjoying themselves with a informative and engaging fire fighter guide giving them some hands-on experience of the noble profession.

I wonder if I was the only one disappointed by our whole episode. To be fair, it was an open house so there wasn't any designated guide to show us around. When we went into the compound, we saw a couple of fire fighters on duty, explaining about the uniform and equipment used during an operation. We quickly joined in the crowd. Although the crowd was invited to try on the uniform or ask questions,  nobody was really keen. It wasn't very appealing (or clean) and it was really very hot under the sun. 

Okay, I really shouldn't complain about heat since these guys risk their lives everyday to fight fire and save lives. But I doubt the kids actually learn much. They did like the water hose and the classic fire fighter down the pole stunt.

The museum was my only hope that the trip is worth the heat and time. However, I wasn't allowed in since I was holding 100 plus in my hand. I didn't mind until I saw a couple of caucasians strolling into the museum with their Spinelli cups. The staff on duty looked at  them, made a half-hearted attempt to stop them but changed his mind and went back to his handphone. I was furious but I kept quiet like a good, peace-loving Singaporean.

Then came the second round of 'Sorry Mdm, no drinks allowed in the museum!'  from another staff and I told him off that his colleague let the tourists in with drinks. And like another good, peace-loving Singapore, he kept quiet and looked away, leaving my gap open and mind wondering. What had just happened? Are we in denial that we had got a conflict here? I decided that Andy and Pei Ee was right, we have to stand up for our rights. I made a mental note then to stop being such a pushover and start being more assertive.

Anyway, we went to Ding Tai Fung for lunch. We were so happy that we found another place Sophie and Alfee love. They can eat quite a lot here and the service is relatively pleasant. And as soon as we went back to the car, the kids slept. They were exhausted from the activities and heat. The kids aren't very energetic sort so they tire quite easily. Or perhaps they aren't very good with self regulation so they tire themselves out.

After their nap, we let the kids hang out in Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park. The weather was so hot that Papa declared it an Ice-Cream Day. We parked at McDonald's for some sundae and found ourselves surrounded by tertiary students. Suddenly we felt old.

When the kids were bored with people watching, they hijacked a frisbee from a kind young chap and took some impromptu lessons. One thing great about my kids and something I am very proud of (and scared sometimes) - they can mingle with anyone they meet anywhere. They would just approach others, ask them if they can join in and that's all! And to think I am an introvert.

When the kids were done playing, we went on to do a little of sightseeing. The kids love to watch the tiny fish in the waters. I'm glad they never pester us to fish. Perhaps my constant 'anti-cruelty' talk made them more compassionate.