Incidents

Elder Boy started a chat,
When I drove him to school.

EB : Dad, today we'll leave school...
After lunch to sing at a local church.
So, you've to pick me up from there.

I : You've told me before.

EB : Yes. Do you know where it's?

I : No worries, I'll find it.

(I did it on purpose, not asking details.
Wanted to see how he handled it when..
He couldn't find me!!)

Saw school bus leaving when I was near.
When trying to get in a public car park,
I saw my Elder Boy just coming out,
Waving to me happily.

I : Come on in.

EB : (Open the door)
Do you think I'd say goodbye to X?
(X is his classmate)
And tell her you've come?

I : Yes, you'd. Where's she?

EB : Waiting outside a store up there.

(EB came back & got into my car)

I : Why did you come out from the car park?

EB : Looking for you.

I : How do you know I'd go there?

EB : I'd told you the church's near a car park.

I : That's clever.
Why did you have to tell X you're leaving?

EB : Only 3 of us waiting to be picked up.
So, I'd told them, 'We better stick as a group..,
To avoid being kidnapped - safety in numbers!'

I : That's quite funny.
Were you really worried about Kidnapping?

EB : You never know,
Better Be Safe than Sorry!
The other boy was later picked up.
So only me & X waiting.
It's better to tell her when I'm leaving.

I : Is she now on her own?

EB : No. A 6th Former is also waiting.
And X's father is on his way.

I : That's better.

EB : I was trying to call you.

I : How? You don't have a mobile.

EB : I'd asked a classmate at the car park.
Do you know what happened?

I : He didn't let you use his mobile?

EB : He did.
But he'd NO credit on his mobile!

I : Oh, no.

EB : Do you know what I did next?

I : Mmmm...

EB : I asked X if I could use her mobile.

I : Clever.

EB : Do you know what happened?

I : She didn't have credit on her mobile either?

EB : No. She'd NO battery on hers!

I : So, do you think you now need a mobile?

EB : No. Most of my classmates have one.
I normally at school, so I always have access...
To a phone.
And I could......

I : You could?

EB : I could always use my 20 pence to use..
A Public phone to call you!

Fate
Incidents Keep Us Thinking
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Fancy

My Younger Boy started a conversation.
While us having an afternoon snack.

YB : Dad, do you know what happened at school?

I : You'd a good lunch?

YB : No. X asked me, 'Do you fancy Y?'
(X & Y are girls at his school)

I : Oh! So, do you?

YB : No.

I : Why do you think X asked you this?

YB : She just wanted to find out if it's true.

I : So, when should one have a girl friend?

YB : About 17.

I : O.K. Good point.

The following day, he started it again.

YB : Dad, did you know what happened..
earlier at school today?

I : Another girl asked you,' Do you fancy Y?'

YB : No. I went to ask Y,' Do you fancy me?'

I : Oh! Really?

YB : Yes, I asked her.

I : What happened?

YB : She replied, 'No.'

I : Did she say anything else?

YB : No.

I : Did you say anything else?

YB : No.

I : Just curious.
Why did you ask her the question?

YB : Just wanted to know if it's true.

Fate
Who doesn't Fancy the Truth?
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Fun

Elder Boy started a conversation..
When me picking him up after school.

EB : I'd a good time today in playing snow.

I : That's good. When did you play?

EB : After lunch.

I : Where?

EB : I saw many going to a direction.
So, I followed them, then arrived at our...
School big playing field.

I : And then?

EB : Kept a distance, observed what's going on.
I stood behind a goal post.

I : Well planned. What's going on then?

EB : Many throwing snow balls to others.
I'd a snow ball in one hand - just in case.

I : How many students there?

EB : I think about 100?

I : So, you just observing?

EB : Yes, at first.
But I then started walking around.
Again, with a snow ball in hand ready.

I : And then?

EB : Then just everyone threw at everyone.
I threw snow at someone.
Then, someone threw at me.
Great fun.

Fate
Having Fun in a Responsible Way
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Dishonest

Had a chat with Younger Boy.
After him putting down,
'Small, Dishonest & Kind',
when I asked him to use 3 words,
To describe himself.

I ; Very Interesting.
First, the word, 'Small'

YB : Yes, it's in the family.
Running in the genes.
You & Mum are Small.
So is my elder brother!

I : Right.
So, what can you do to change that?

YB : Eat More?

I : Yes. Eat Healthy. And?

YB : Exercise More?

I : Yes.
Then the word, 'Kind'

YB : Yes. I always help my family.
Like when they ask me to bring...
Things to them. I just do it.

I : You're very Kind indeed.
And the word, 'Dishonest'?

YB : Yes, just a a bit.

I : Could you tell me a bit more?

YB : You once asked me a question.
I told you I needed to go to toilet..
For An 'Emergency'.

I : Did I?

YB : Yes. You did.
Well, it wasn't an 'Emergency'.
I just needed to be in a Toilet,
To have more time to think of an answer.

I : Oh. I see. So what would you do...
Next time when I ask you a question?
Do you need to be Dishonest again?

YB : No.

I : So, what would you do then?

YB : I would just say,
'I need more time to think'.

I : That's Good.
No more Smelly Excuse to toilet!

We both laughed.
Honestly, a good laugh.

Fate
Honesty is the Best Quality
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Lottery

Breakfast time, I had a chat with boys.

I : Do you how much a Canadian couple...
had won in a lottery?

YB : How Much?

EB : £1 Million?

I : They won about £7 million.
Do you know how much they'd kept?

YB : A Lot.

EB : £5 Million?

I : No. They donated ALL the Cash!

YB : What?

EB : All £7 Million?

I : Yes. ALL of the money.
The couple were both 75.
The woman just had last Chemotherapy.

EB : She'd have kept some of the money.

I :Why?

EB : You never know.
The cancer may come back.

I : That's true.
But they'd donated some to hospitals.

YB : Yeah, I'll donate some if I win.

I : Yes? How Much?

Both : 20%. You've reminded us!

I : Do you know what the couple said..
When being asked if they would miss..
The money?

Both : What did they say?

I : 'If I'd never had it,
I would never miss it.'
They're angles to me, boys.

Fate
Great Happiness comes from Great Unselfishness
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Game

Just invented a new educational game,
Helping children to improve English.

Had a chat with Younger Boy.

I : I am to set up a firm to sell this game.
Which Continent will you be responsible?

YB : Responsible for?

I : For selling this game.

YB : Oh,.......Oceania.

I : That's good.
But what about the remaining 6 Contents?

YB : That's easy.

I : Really?

YB : Yes, each of you, Mum, Brother..
To have 2 Continents.

I : So, why only you have 1 then?

YB : Because....I'm the Youngest!

Fate
Everyone has a Duty
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Future

Had a chat with Younger Boy.

I : What do you want to be when you're older?

YB : A ' Teacher'.

I : Surprise!
I thought you want to be a 'Doctor'?

YB : I was.
But Mum stated it may not suit me.

I : Why?

YB : Because I'm kind of scare of blood.

I : Ops... What about 'Optometrist'?
Not interested any more?

YB : Yes..but not as good as 'Teacher'.

I : What about 'Chemist'?
I thought you like it too.

YB : Yes, but B wants to be a 'Chemist'.
(B is our Elder Boy)

I : But this shouldn't stop you.
If you still want to be a 'Chemist'.

YB : No, I like 'Teacher' better.

I : And the reason is?

YB : As a 'Teacher', if I teach 25 students.
And if they all become teachers.
And if their students also become Teachers.
And so on....
There'll be a lot of good Teachers!

Fate
Happier Children Have Better Future?
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Fair

Bed Time.
Younger Boy started the chat.

YB : Dad, it's so Unfair?

I : What's Unfair?

YB : Why do I've to be the Youngest?

I : You're the Youngest in our family.
That's a Fact NOT Unfair, my boy.

YB : So, why couldn't I be the Eldest?

I : Because.....you'll then ask,
'What couldn't I be the Youngest?'

(YB started to laugh)

I : So, why do you think it's Unfair...
To be the Youngest?

YB : Because you always ask me to...
Give you a massage.

I : But you said you wanted to earn..
Some money. And I pay you £1 for 2 mins!

YB : Yeah, but that's not enough.

I : Do you know UK's Minimum Wage?

YB : No.

I : It's abt £5.80 an hour for adult!

YB : So?

I : I pay you £1 for 2 mins.
That's how much an hour?

YB : £30 an hour?

I : Yes, that's how many times of the..
UK Minimum Wage for adult?

YB : About 5 times?

I : Yes.
It's so Unfair because......
I pay you so much!

Fate
Father Has to be Fair
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

3 Words

Dinner time, Elder Boy started a chat.

EB : Tutor'd asked us to use 3 words to......
Describe how we feel abt the school so far.

I : That's interesting.
So, which 3 words did you choose?

EB : Unpredictable, New, Excited.

I : And the reason?

EB : Sometimes you just don't know..
What's to happen at school.
Like I was the only 1 waiting in a club.

I : You're alone, waiting others to start?

EB : Yes. That's 'Unpredictable'.
Then, 'New'.
I'd learnt a new sport, Ruby.

I : I though you'd played it before?

EB : Yes but not anything like this.
We'd to wear mouth guard, shin protector..
& proper ruby boots.

I : & had to take a shower, after a ruby game,
In 3-minute time!

EB : Now, 'Excited'
I went to the Science Club the other day,
Formed a Team & won a game.
Was Excited because of the Prize...
Yummy Chocolate!

Fate
School Time = Best Time in Life?
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Let

When picking up Elder Boy from school,
I noticed him having a cheeky smile.

EB : Dad, I've some bad news.

I : Have you?
Do you want to tell me now?

EB : Yeah. Remember I told you...
This morning we'd to play an instructment..
In our music lesson at school today?

I : Yes, you did tell me this.

EB : I cried in the lesson.

I : You meant when you're playing piano?

EB : Yes.

I : Why?

EB : I just forgot how to play ...
A bit in the middle & a bit in the end.

I : So, you cried in front of your class?

EB : Yes, but they didn't notice.

I : How come?

EB : I didn't cry out.
I'd a few tears in my eyes only.
Others didn't notice this.
Because my head was low and...

I : And?

EB : And I'd quickly moved onto anther song.
The one that I composed myself.

I : Did they like it?

EB : Yes. Few clapped their hands.
And one even said, 'Encore'.

I : That's good.
Would you tell me why you'd cried...
I meant, had tears?

EB : Well....you know......

I : Well...I don't quite....you know....
Would you tell me then?

EB : (With a smile, blinking his eyes)
Well, sometime, you just have to,
'Let it go'

Fate
Stay in Peace by Letting Emotions Flow
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Unexpected

Had a meeting with school.
Finished 5 min after school finished.
All students left.
Including our Younger Boy.

Spotted him walking down the street.
On his own.
On his way home.
Stopped driving & spoke to him.

I : Surprise, surprise!
I thought you're waiting for Mum.
At school gate.

YB : I did.
But I didn't see her.

I : Did you go back to office?

YB : No, I went back to school..
Playground & left through back gate.

I : Did anyone see you leaving school?

YB : No.

I : Noone inside?

YB : No, everyone's gone.

I : What happened next?

YB : Back gate was locked.
So, I climbed over the fence.

I : (Noticing him had tears)
What happened, my boy?

YB : I damaged the fence.
I broke the side when I felt over.

I : Gosh..did you get hurt?

YB : Yes, a bit on my wrist.

I : It's alright.
Were you walking home earlier?

YB : Yes.

I : Why did you not wait longer for Mum?

YB : I thought she'd forgotten.
So, I hurried to go home.
Rushing to climb over fence.
I just wanted to go home quick to see Mum.

I : Yes, you're a Good Boy.

Fate
Children Grow Unexpectedly Fast
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Campaign

Elder boy started a chat in dinner.

EB : Dad, something going on in class.

I : Which is?

EB : Kind of Campaigning.
Two boys wanted to be Class Captain.

I : Oh, so which one would you vote?

EB : Not quite sure yet.

I : Is one of them your friend?

EB : Yes, kind of.

I : Would you vote him for this reason?

EB : No.

I : What about the other?

EB : He's keen to answer questions in class.

I : How're you going to choose?

EB : I'm to ask both the same question.

I : Which is?

EB : 'What'd you do if you find a 50p on floor?'

I : Alright. Anything else?

EB : Yes. See how they do in their Speech..
& Poster.

Fate
Thinking before Selecting
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Self Entertainment

Took boys to a lunch buffet.
Returned seat after filling up 1st plate.
Boys were excited.

I : What are you two talking about?

YB : Cars.

EB : We're looking at cars just outside us.

I : You meant the Roundabout?

EB : Yes. Do you see the traffic lights at RA?

I : Yes. On all sides. It's a big RA.

EB : We bet which one is the 1st to start.

YB : Yes, we bet which one is faster.

I : Wah! That must be good fun.

Both : Yes. Just look at that car....

Fate
Self Entertainment resulting in Higher Achievement?
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Nervous

Boys started their new school last Thursday.
Two days before term started,
Elder boy & I had a chat.

EB : I'm a bit nervous, Dad.

I : Nervous about?

EB : About 1st day at school.

I : That's normal - I was too.
So, what're you nervous about?

EB : I may wear my uniform wrongly.

I : Why?

EB : It happened to a boy in a comic.

I : But you'll wear it the right way.

EB : Also, boys' toilet may be dirty.

I : May be clean?
May be more than 1 toilet?

EB : I may not be able to do a tie.

I : So, what do you think...
You can do about this?

EB : Practise More?

I : Yes, of course.
Remember what I always tell you,
'Practise makes things...

EB : Better!

Cheers
Fate
New Environment, New Excitement, New Achievement
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Marriage

While having meal at home,
My Elder Boy started an interesting topic.

EB : Why can't people get married younger?

I : How young do you mean?

EB : Say like 12, 13?

I : That young, why?

EB : So, they can be with their children longer!

I : That's sweet.
But what do you think a 12,13-year-old be doing?

EB : At school?

I : Yes, so what happens if they get married...
And then have a child?

EB : Mmmmmmm...

I :And they do not have money to feed their child?

EB : I know. Child could be looked after by....
their grandparents!

Fate
No Retirement for Granddad & Grandmum
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Priority

On a family holiday.
Visiting Old Places, Old Friends.
In Bath, Windsor, Mill Hill, Totteridge....
North Finchley,Colchester & Brightlingsea.

Had lunch in North Finchley.
At a Japanese Restaurant.
Younger Boy started a chat.
In the 'Men' toilet.

YB : I like this restaurant, Dad.

I : Really? Why?

YB : 1st, tap water isn't too strong.
(Some taps were too strong & wet
his T-shirt when washing his hands)

I : Yes.

YB : 2nd, hand dryer is very strong.
And I don't need paper to dry my hands.

I : That's true.

YB : 3rd, toilet is clean.

I : Indeed.

YB : 4th, toilet door is not too heavy.
(Some are difficult for him to open)

I : Yes.

YB : And 5th?

I : Wah! You got a 5th?

YB : Yes, I like its Eel Rice.

Fate
Everyone has their Own Priorities
www.fatesecrest.blogspot.com

Over-riding factor

Read an controversial article on a paper.
Had a chat with my boys.

I : Parents asked 5-year-old son,
& 8-year-old girl to ride 1 mile to school..
On their own.
What do you think?

Both : They'll be tired when arriving school!

I : A few minute cycling is a good exercise.
Could I ask you two to visualise their journey.

Both : Yes.

I : What do you think may happen?

EB : Busy roads, accident?

YB : Strangers?

I : Yes.

EB : Bad weather?

YB : Stray dogs? Snakes?

I : Very good.

Both : So, why do their parents NOT cycling too?

I : They said, 'To train their Independence'

Both : really?

I : But to me, if the parents really mean it,
And NOT because they've to hurry to work,
NOT go to bed too late at night etc. etc.
They should have had a chat with children 1st.
Ensuring their children know what to expect..
And how to react.

I : Then, have a ride with their children 1st.
Have a feel of what the journey would be.

Fate
Safety is the Over-riding Factor. Always.
www,fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Photo

Saw a black & white photo in a newspaper.
Had a chat with my Younger Boy.

I : Do you know who he's?

YB : Beethoven?

I : No.

YB : Mozart?

I : No, you're really into Music.
Remember the one with an apple?

YB : Oh, Issac Newton?

I : Yes, the man Invented Force of Gravity.

YB : No, he didn't Invent Force of Gravity.

I : Ops...sorry, my mistake.
So, what did Newton do?

YB : He Discovered Force of Gravity.

I : Good. So you know the difference,
Between 'Invent' & 'Discover'?

YB : Yes. 'Invent' means 'Create'.
'Discover' means 'Find Out'
Newton Found Out NOT Invented,
Force of Gravity,
Which is like grass that is always there.

I : Do you think God Invented,
Force of Gravity?

YB : Come on!

Fate
Children Learn Fast
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Dragons

Saw TV Programme, 'Dragons' Den'.
New Entrepreneurs presenting their...
Innovative Ideas, trying to persuade...
Multi Millionaires to invest in them.

I : Why did you think the young lady...
could get money from 2 Dragons?

YB : Because she'd a 4-year-old son?

I : That's a fact.
But Dragons won't invest just because..
Someone has a young child.

YB : Because she'd worked 2 1/2 jobs?

I : She did work hard.
But that's not the main reason.
What about you? What do you think?

EB : Because she'd done her work.

I : Yes...meaning...

EB : Because she'd answered well.

I : Yes. Could you be more specify?

EB : She could give the numbers that
Dragons want, like how much it costs,
how much it will sale in 1st year etc.

I : That's right!
Remember, Cost is..
The Most Important Factor in...
Setting up & running a business.

Fate
Planting a Seed for Success
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

N Vs N

Read an Article, 'Nature Vs Nurture'.
Had a discussion with my Elder Boy.

I : What do you think?
Which one is more important?
Nature or Nurture?

EB : Well, if you're born in a bad family,
The genes won't necessary make you bad.

I : Why?

EB : You could have a friend make you..
do the right thing. Might have a teacher..
Or mentor inspiring you.

I : Good points.

EB : If your past 10 generations were rich,
You might not be rich too.

I : Why?

EB : Because your parents might have wanted,
To teach you without you living in luxury.

I : Haha!
So, the conclusion is?

EB : It all depends on Environment, Family..
And Friends.

I : Right. In one word?

EB : Nature, Nurture. 50/50!

Fate
What Happens Next depends on What you do NOW
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Trial

Elder Boy was invited for a Trial Day,
By his soon to attend Grammar School.

Picked him up at 1500 hrs.
Had a chat about his day.

I : How's the day, Mate?

EB : Good.

I : Were you lot divided into groups?

EB : Yes, 4 Groups.
Because we're to have four Year 7 classes.

I : Right.
Does each class have a name?

EB : Yes. Each given a tree name.

I : What're they?

EB : Beech, Oak, Cedar & Ash.
And I'm in Oak.

I : Are there more boys than girls in your class?

EB : Oh, yes. In fact, all of them are.

I : Interesting.
What have you done for the day?

EB : We played some games in sport hall.
Then went to a classroom, introducing ourselves.
Only allowed to say our name, address & hobbies.

I : Good.

EB : We also had a short French Lesson,
A Chemistry Lesson - which was so fun.
We wore eye protectors for mixing 2 liquids.

I : Fun?

EB : Yes. Mixing Red with Blue liquid,
(Acid with Alkaline) change to Rainbow colour!
And it started rising very quickly in the tube!

I : So, what's your Happiest Moment?

EB : I scored a try when us playing Touch Ruby!

I : Really?
Any Surprise?

EB : Yes. The food was VERY tasty & not expansive!

Fate
New Environment, New Challenge, New Fun
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Impression

Visited Elder Boy's School about 2 weeks ago.
A Grammar School where he's to start in Sept.

Briefed by Headteacher, Staff & Students.
Then a Guided School Tour.

Had a conversation after the Tour in our car.

I : How do you find the school?

EB : Good.

I : What's your Impression?

EB : It's Big. Bigger than the one in Australia.
I may get lost in the first few days!

I : Yes. That's true.

EB : It's Advanced.

I : You meant the lunch time arrangement?

EB : Yes. It's cool to use our finger print....
And NOT money to buy food at school!

I : Yes, I was surprised too.

EB : But...

I : But?

EB : But, there is NO playground in school.

I : Well... you're right.
Do you know why?

EB : Because we are older?
Have other things to do?

I : That's Right. You're now at a Different Level.
Everyone should be progressing & forward-looking.
But...I love to play in playground every now & then!

Fate
There's an Adult in Every Child,
A Child in Every Adult
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

10%

Discussed with my Elder Boy after Scholarship Result.

I : Have you noticed one thing about the Result?

EB : About?

I : How many got the Scholarship?

EB : 2.

I : That's right. Out of how many?

EB: 20.

I : Correct. How many percentage is that?

EB : 10%.

I : That's what I always remind you two.
Be the 'Top 10%' - do you know why?

EB : To get the Scholarship?

I : Well, it's a Bonus if you got that.
The Main reason is because you never know...
How good the Pool of people you are being compared.
So, you could be 'Top 10%' in a Pool of 'Bottom 10%'!

EB : That's not very nice then.

I ; That's right.
Also, you may not be in your top form sometimes.
So, it's essential that you're in 'Top 10%',
So that when you're Sick, Tired, Outperformed etc.
You could still at least be 'Top 20%'.
That's all I hope for!

Fate
Best Preparation for Worst Anticipation
www.fatesecrets.blogpsot.com

Scholarship

Had result of Scholarship Test before leaving OZ.
Then had a conversation with my Elder Boy.

I : Sorry, my son, the competition was just too fierce.
You had NOT got the Scholarship.
Are you Disappointed?

EB : Yes, sort of.

I : But what did I tell you before the Test?

EB : It's all about 'Trying your Best'.

I : That's right.
I'm happy as long as you'd Tried your Best.

EB : Alright.

I : Only 2 out of 20 participants got it.
1 was an Existing student,
The other one was from outside.
Did you know which classmate got the Scholarship?

EB : No.

I : Could you find it out for me tomorrow.

Next Day. Another Conversation.

EB : Classmates asked me if I got the Scholarship.
I replied, 'No'.
They all said,
'Even you couldn't get it! It must be too Hard!'

I : But there's 1 student at your school got it.
Do you think who that would be?

EB : G?

I : Yes. How do you know?

EB : I actually went up to ask her today.

I : What did you say to her?

EB : Just asked her,
'Did you get the Scholarship?'

I : That's very straight forward.
What did she say?

EB : Just 1 word, 'Yes'
And as usual, she's Emotionless.

I : Do you know why she could do it?

EB : Because she's Concentrated?

I : Yes, because she's Very Calm,
Very Focus - an All Rounder.
But....

EB : But....

I : But she may start Leveling Out.
And....

EB : And??

I : And remember,
It's NOT about what you are NOW,
But what you will be IN FUTURE.
Learn from her.
Learn from others.

Fate
Keep Improving, Successes Keep Coming
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Cover

Visited shopping mall next to hotel everyday.
There's a Disturbing Incident the other day.

I : Did you know something happened in mall?

EB : What happened?

I : A woman jumped from 8/F & killed herself.

YB : Really?

I : Yes.

EB : How old is she?

I : About 45 years old.

EB : She came from a Broken Family?

I : Not sure at this stage.
Why did you think so?

EB : Because I thought she's Unhappy.
And people from Broken Family are Unhappy.

I : That's true to a certain extent.
She's been suffering some diseases for sometime.
Do you know what I's trying to remind you?

EB : Mmmm......

I : Whenever possible, walk Under Cover.
There's always a possibility that someone...
Would throw objects from height for fun...
Or by accident. And, in some extreme cases,
Throwing themselves.

Fate
Nothing is Impossible - Be Prepared
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Survey

After reading a recent UK survey,
I had a chat with my boys.

I : 3,000 people were asked in UK,
how many closed friends they've,
& who they're.
Would you two like to guess?

EB : 10?

YB : 5?

I : No. Only 3.

YB : Really?

I : Yes. Would you two like to guess,
Who these 3 are?

EB : Classmates?

I : In a way, yes.
One of the 3 is someone that grow with you.
Could be your Classmates.
Could be your Neighbours.
And the other 2?

YB : Mmmm...

I : Alright. Let me give you two a hint.
Someone that you're to meet when older.

EB : People work with you?

I : Yes. A Long Time Colleague.
What about the last 1?

Both : Mmmmm...

I : Family.

Both : Family is NOT Closed Friend?

I : What do you mean?

YB : Family is Above Closed Friend.

I : You meant....

EB : Family is Most Important!

Fate
Family Gives Us Strength
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

New Policy

My Wife has enough of boys.

Boys speaking too much in English,
During meal times, sometimes getting choked,
And food getting cold.

So, she came up with a New Policy.
(The Mother Strikes Back!)

Speaking Cantonese ONLY in meal times.

Boys : It's so Unfair.

Wife : Very Fair.

I : So Unfair?
You two meant to us, the parents?
We help you to be Fluent at a 2nd language.
So Unfair to yourself - you're already quite good.
But just need more....
What have I said about "Practise"

Boys : Practise make things Perfect.

I : Well, not necessarily "Perfect".
But definitely "Better"

Boys : What if we forget the new rule?

Wife : One warning.
If repeated, you have to sit at another table...
On your own.

Their Oral Cantonese has since improved.
Though every now and then, they....
Have to sit on their own!

Fate
Changing Habit, Changing Fate
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Party

Elder Boy was invited to a House Warming Party.
So, we went as usual - as a family, 4 of us!

Amusing ground - over 100 acres!
Amusing Playground, Merry-go-around,
Electric Cars, Giant Bouncing Castle/Slide etc.

And the food....Never Stop Coming,
Never Boring & Never Tasting So Good!

I : Do you two want to live there?

EB : Quite Good Actually.
I love the Electric Car.

I : Yes, like living in a playground everyday!

YB : Will cost a lot of money.

I : You mean....

YB : All the electricity.

I : This's a very good lifestyle.
Relaxing. Lots of Spaces.
Remember the Electric Sofa you two kept playing..
In the Massive Home Theatre Room?
Good, isn't it.

Both : Oh, yes, it was so good!

I : But remember if you want to have all these,
You have to plan ahead & work hard.

YB : But I think it's just a bit too big.
Just get what you need is enough.

I : Can you see yourself living there?

Both : Well....mmm..no.

I : Why?

Both : Because that house does NOT have you!

We started tickling each other!

Fate
Life is Good
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

News

Two weeks ago, I finally broke the news.
While driving my boys to school.

I : Remember our discussion about UK Relocation?

Eb/YB : Yes.

I : Mum & I have decided we're to relocate back to UK.
How do you boys feel?

EB : Kind of Sad.

I : Why?

EB : We just settled in our new school.
We're not in war times, why do we've to move?

I : Because of a Better Future.
Better Opportunity for our Family Business.
And more importantly,
Better Opportunity for you two, my boys.

EB : When will we be leaving?

I : At the end of this term.

EB : Oh, that's O.K. then.
I thought I'd to leave the school now.

I : What about you, how do you feel?

YB : I feel Sad - but only a little bit.
I also feel very Excited.

I : Excited?

YB : Yes. Because I've never been there before.
There could be Surprises.

I : Surprises? Pleasant or Nasty?

YB : I think it should be mainly Pleasant Surprises.

I : Boys, let me remind you two this,
Look beyond today - in 3-5 year time,
Hopefully, you'll understand why I'm doing this today.

Fate
Change for Better
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Deal

Planning a trip to HK.
Rang a few travel agents.
Thought got the best deal with Cathay Pacific.

Then, found the Real best flight deal on net.
A saving of $1,700 with a different airline.
But had to persuade our boys 1st.

I : We could save $1,700 if we change airlines.

YB : Wah! That's a lot!

EB : But, Dad won't give them all to us.

I : Singapore Airline is an Excellent airline.
Won many awards for Customer Services.
Its airport is voted the Best.

YB : But, we always fly Cathay Pacific.
It's Safer, got Instant Noodles, and.....
I like its computer games!

I : What about if I offer each of you.....
A Cash Incentive of A$200?
That could buy you a lot of toys in HK!

Boys having a discussion.

Mum came in.
Not happy about my Offer.
Told the boys the Deal was off.

Mum : We're to fly with Singapore Airline.
A$200 is too much. HK$100 for each.
+ a Buffet Lunch at a HK Hotel.
This is Final.

Fate
Children are Bosses, Mums are Bigger Bosses
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Boy/Girl Friend

About 6 weeks ago, I'd a chat with my boys.
While driving them to schools.
I asked my Younger Boy 1st.

I : Why do think people need a boy/girl friend?

YB : They don't. Boy can play with boys.
Girl can play with girls.

I : Just assuming one has to have a boy/girl friend.
When do you think they'd have one?

YB : When they're Sensible.

("Wah, that's a Great Answer!" so I thought.
One should be Mature enough 1st)

I : Sensible?

YB : Yes, Sensible - if they know how to deal with money.

I : Why?

YB : Because going out needs & spend money.

I : What about you?
What do you think?

EB : Well, they've to be Mature enough.

I : Mature enough? What do you mean?

EB : Only do the Right Things.
Don't do the Wrong Things.

I : What do you mean?

EB : You know what I mean...

I : I don't know (Can't stop laughing!)

EB : Yes, you know!!

Fate
Growing Up, Pairing Up, Keeping Up
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Courage

Found something new with my Elder Boy.
Had to have a chat with him.

I : Who decided the seating in your classroom?

EB : We could chose to sit with anyone we like.

I : So, there could be 2 or 3 or even 4 sit together?

EB : Yes.

I : So, why do you sit Alone?
Is it by Choice or Circumstance?

EB : I decided myself.

I : Why? Do you not want to sit with others?

EB : No, I prefer sitting Alone.
Because I can see better.

(His seat is now right at the centre of classroom)

EB : And also I can Learn Better.

I : What do you mean?

EB : Because others tend to talk when sitting together.

I : That's True. I'm Proud of you - you're Brave.
Because some may NOT have the Courage to do it.
Even though they want to!

I : Proud also because you know what your Duty is.
You're to Learn at school.

EB : Yes, I can talk & play with them at breaks.

I : Do you NOT worry you may single out yourself?
And becoming a Target of Bullying?

EB : No. I'm NOT worried.
They all know that I've friends, I'm Confident.
And I just want to Concentrate during lessons.

(A few days later, A Top student at his school,
Also moved away from a group & sat Alone)

Fate
More Alone Time = More Successful?
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Motto

Learnt something new about my Younger Boy.
During "Talk About" time when him going to bed.

YB : Dad, do you know I've a New Motto?

I : Oh, you've a Motto?

YB : Yes. A New one.
It's, "Behave to Learn, Learn to Behave."

I : Interesting. So, what does it really mean?

YB : You've to Behave before you can Learn.
When you Learn, you'll start to Behave.

I : Kind of Egg 1st or Hen 1st?

YB : Do you know my Old Motto?

I : Which is?

YB : "Do Not Wait for others to be Kind,
Show them How."

I : Wah, where did you learn it from?

YB : During Junior Chapel at school.
Do you know I've a New Motto every 1 month & a week.

I : Really?

YB : Yes. I started in Dec & finish in March.

I : Oh, I see.

YB : Do you know my other 2 Mottos?

I : Hmmmm......

YB : "All the Hard Work will Pay Off"
"Failure is not an Option"

I : Did you think all that yourself?

YB : NO.
I learnt the 1st one from a Fortune Cookie.
2nd one from my brother!

Fate
Children Are Our Teachers
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Hard

After Chess Club, I took my 2 boys home from school.

My Elder Boy could NOT hide his Excitement.

EB : Dad, I'd two achievements today.

I : Oh, that's good! What're they?

EB : 1st, I've moved up in Chess.
I'm now a Primary League Chess Player.

I :Which means?

EB : I could now play as an Individual Player.
(In addtition to play in a Team)

I : Really?

EB : Yes. 2nd is I'm now in the Top Maths Group.
Which is the "90-100 Mark" Group.

I : That's amusing.

EB : But still I do NOT have the Highest Maths Score.

I : Surprised!! I thought you're!

EB : No, it's another boy in another class.
But, I think I'm only 0.xx point behind him.

I : Well, that's a good news.
Because you now have a Target!

EB : Well, you can say it.

I : Let me remind you two things, my Good Boy.
1st, it's Hard for you to finally reach your Current Level.
You'd be very proud of yourself!
2nd, it's Even Harder to STAY at your Level!

Fate
Moving Forward or Going Backward
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

God

The school has Religious Study.
So I had a conversation with my Younger Boy.

I : Do you believe in God?

YB : Yes.

I : Do you think God is a Chinese or an Aussie or...?

YB : God could exist in many form.

I : Have you ever seen God?

YB : No.

I : When you think of God, how do you feel?

YB : Sometimes I feel Angry.

I : Why?

YB : Because when I couldn't do something,
I thought it's God made me to.
So, I was Angry about God.
But, sometimes I feel Happy.

I : Why?

YB : Because sometimes I feel God gives me Confidence.

I : If you could see God, what would you ask God?

YB : I'd ask, "Why people CAN'T see you, God?"

(I remind him NOT God, but himself should be held responsible.
For his own Failure)

Fate
Believing God Lets us decide whether to believe there's God

Surprise

New school offering Two Languages.

I asked my Elder Boy which one he would prefer.
He gave me a Surprised Answer.

French.

I : I thought you would pick Japanese.

EB : Because I've learnt it before?

I: Yes, you'd done it like.. 2 years at Old school?

EB : Yes, but Old school didn't teach us much.
I'd like 3 Japanese teachers, they just came & went.

I : May be New school has a good Japanese teacher?

EB : I just want to do something new.

I : That' good, new challenge.

EB : Do someone say I should accept more challenges?

I : Ha! Ha! Yes. It's...........Me!
(Trying to tickle him)

Fate
Children Sometimes Unpredictable
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Leaders

My Elder Boy got his 1st homework from new school.

Name/find someone that's a Good Leader.
And name the 6 Qualities that a Good Leader should have.

Teacher gave him a list with many well known persons.
Nelson Mandela, Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Kennedy etc.
I gave him some information about each one of them.

Still, he didn't think he knew enough about them as Leaders.

I : What about Bruce Lee or Jackie Chan?
You like their Kung Fu?
Do you think they're Leaders in their field?

EB : Yes. I like their Kung Fu.
But I do NOT know them that much either.

I : Should I give you sometime to think first?

(I then left to check some E Mails)

I : So, have you got any new ideas?

EB : Yes. Mum suggested me to name someone I know well.

I : That's Logical. Did you find one?

EB : Yes. Someone I know really well!

I : Who??

EB : You!!!

I : Oh......thanks.
But, did you say you've to list 6 Qualities?

EB : Yes, I did. Look.
(Showing me what he'd written)

I : (I read quietly) Never Give up. Always Plan Ahead......
Wah, that's really something!
Do you really think I'm a Good Leader?

EB : Yes...if...?

I : If?

EB : If you stop shouting at us, then...you'll be a Good Leader! Ha!

Fate
Change for Better
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Humour

A year Older for me,
Hoping a year Wiser for me too.
And a Year closer to help my boys,
To become a......
Happy, Healthy & Harmless Global Citizen.

Bonus if they've Good Humour.

After him being at the new school for few days,
I challenged my Younger Boy to name all his 21 classmates.
He did name ALL except 1 boy & 1 girl.
He knew their names but just forgot to mention them!

Asked to give me 3 good points about his Class Teacher.
He gave me 6!

1st, he's Friendly.
2nd, he's Fair.
3rd, he gives Points (for Good Behaviour)
4th, he gives Details on what should be done.
5th.....Mmm, forgot..getting old!

6th, he's good sense of Humour!
I asked for details.

YB : A child asked him if there're 5 Billion years.

I : Yes.

YB : And if he earned 5 million Points.

I : Yes.

YB : Could he have a Play Station.

I : And?

YB : And our Class Teacher replied yes.

I : I'm a bit confused. It was your classmate talking most.
And your Class Teacher only said one word "Yes".

YB : Yes.

I : And you've found your Class Teacher has Good Humour?

YB : Yes.

I : Why?

YB : Because the Class Teacher knows this would NOT happen.
There would NOT be 5 billion years.
No 5 million points.
He just said "Yes" to keep the boy happy!
He's funny!

Fate
Good Humour leads to a Good Life
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Beautiful

Still about our Gold Coast Holiday.

We've a Strict Dressing Code.
Indoor Clothes & Outdoor Clothes;
And Indoor Slippers & Outdoor Shoes.

The Code was still enforced whilst on holiday.
To save time, after a day of packed activities,
I went out for takeaway & others returned hotel.

On returning home, I'd to eat outside the room.
At the balcony.
Because...I was still on Outdoor Clothes!
My boys were in Indoor Clothes after bathing.
So they'd their dinner inside.

But, my Elder Boy came out.

EB : The lights in the pool area are beautiful.

I : Yes. Should you NOT having your meal inside?

EB : Yes, I Know - Mum told me.

I : So, why are you out here now?

EB : To keep you company.

I : Oh, it's very kind of you.

Then we heard a tiny voice saying,
"Could I join in?"

It's my Younger Boy.

Because they're in Indoor Clothes, they'd to stand.
Could NOT sit on outdoor chairs!
So, I'd to stand up & join them.
Eating when Standing!

Beautiful Lights from the pool.
Beautiful Hearts from my boys.

Fate
We're All Humans - We Care Each other
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Example

Met a Kind Person in Gold Coast.

Determined to locate the local library,
I'd been driving around & around.
But still could not find it.

So, I started asking people.
But the first two persons weren't local.
Tried my 3rd time luck in a car park.

"It's not far from here.
Just go straight from there, then drive...."
She replied then suddenly stopped.

"Just give me two minutes."
She started loading her shopping into her car.
Then stated,
"I'll take you there. You just follow my car."

So I did.
So we arrived the library.
Less than 1-minute drive!
I thanked her again.
And reminded my boys she was a Kind person.

My Elder Boy then asked me,
"Do you think her children are also Kind?"

I : What do you think?
(Rather than giving them a quick answer to their questions,
I always ask my boys back to make them Think Harder)

EB : I think they should be.

I : Why do you think so?

EB : You always state, "Children copy their parents"

I : Good point. Why do you think I'd asked 3 persons?

EB : You really wanted to locate the library?

I : Kind of. The Message I was trying to give was,
One often has to keep trying before they can succeed.
So, Never Give Up So Easily.

Fate
Setting a Good Example
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Change

Time flied.

Recently back from our 7-day Gold Coast holiday.
Met some interesting people.

1st, a Car Park Attendant.

Very difficult to find a parking spot in Surfers Paradise.
So, I bought $10 daily necessities from a supermarket,
In exchange for a 2-hour Free Undercover Parking.
Enough time for us to have a meal or me to get takeaway.

Day 1, I drove to the paying station.
The Attendant held his hand out,
I immediately put down my window,
Held my hand out & shook his hand.

He shook back with a smile & said,
"We're Friends now.
But I still need your ticket."
My wife & boys couldn't stop Laughing!

Oh, yes, the ticket!
He held out his hand for my parking ticket!
Not to shake hands with me, how Embarrassing!!

Day 2, Same paying station again.
This time I was ready.
I gave him the ticket & the receipt.
He looked at my boys in the car & the receipt then said,
"Where're the Doughnuts?
You don't buy Doughnuts for your children!"
"He was funny," my boys said - I agreed.

Day 3, Same paying station the 3rd time.
On my own, with ticket & receipt ready.
He looked at my receipt and said,
"I want to let you go but I can't.
Your receipt is yesterday's"

"Oh, you must be Kidding!"
I was panic & searching for the right receipt.

"Yes, I was only Kidding!
Have a Goodnight!"
He smiled & waved goodbye.

I used this incident to remind my boys,
"This man has changed his Life.
Car Park Attendant is a Boring job for most.
But he uses his Sense of Humour to make Himself,
And Others Happy."

Fate
Change Yourself, Change your Fate
www.myboysmyboss.blogspot.com

SS

I lost it.
And it's not the 1st time.

It happened when my wife interrupting me,
From "Educating" my boys.
So, I raised my voice, mad a point.
Then went back to my room.

My boys later came to my room.

EB : Dad, you can have this sweet.
(How Sweet, I thought)

YB : Dad, it's Fat Free too.
(Good - Attention to details, I thought)

I : When I raised my voice out there, were you scared?

EB : No.

I : Why?

EB : Because Dad DON"T hurt their Sons.

I : Good point. What about you, my little fellow?
Were you scared?

YB : (Nodding his head) That's why I didn't say a word.
Trying NOT to get involved."

Then, we all had a Big Hug!

Good, they've learnt the SS - Survival Skill!

Fate
Children are Quick Learners
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

New & Old

New Year Eve,
Old Classic Movie.
24 Years Apart,
Now watching Together.

First time, only 2 of us watching it.
This time, all 4 of us enjoying it!
"Back to the Future"
24 Years ago, my Wife & I in HK,
Didn't know what the future would hold.

Two Energetic Boys joining us along the way.
First in UK, then in NZ.
Though we're all now in OZ!

Love our boys to expose more to Science.
And this was the movie they could Learn,
While enjoying the Drama, the Humour.

The Problem was it started at 1930 hrs,
And wouldn't finish until 2200 hrs!
Testing our boys to the Limit,
When they mostly go to bed at 2030 hrs!

Younger Boy gave up 30 minutes before the end.
I then told my Elder Boy,
"If you're tired, you could go to bed too."

B : I'm a bit tired. But I'm not going to bed yet.

I : Why NOT?

B : I want to finish watching it.

I : You could watch it some other time.
This movie is shown every now and then.

B : No, I'll stay.

I : O.K. Your choice.

B : If I Start it, I want to Finish it.

I : Well, Good Attitude.
And you'll be surprised by the Good Ending.

Fate
Keeping Up Better than Giving Up
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com