Malaysia: New Year Wishes

I love my country, and I do whatever I can to instill the same love into my children. Following the Bersih 2.0 rally in July 9, 2011, I've been participating in more citizen movements, such as Kill the Bill, to push for a better Malaysia.

For starters, we've been wearing yellow every Saturday since 709. And while I haven't exposed my kiddos to high-risk events (water cannons, tear gas and all), I do bring them for "safer" outings, just to instill love of country, teach them about standing up for their Constitutional rights, and allow them to join in the camaraderie of fellow countrymen who believe that this country is fighting for.

One such event was the LRT ride on New Year's eve. We were supposed to gather at the main station and head over to KLCC and spread some New Year's wishes to shoppers.

Onboard the train

Party: Ahoy Matey!

De nephew had a maritime-themed birthday party, and the kiddos and I got to help out with the decor — our first attempt at party decor, and what a splash it was!

Hand-painted anchor and ship's wheel and makeshift life buoy

We painted cardboard boxes to resemble crates

The photobooth assembled — a badminton net doubled as a fishing net 

Pirate hats and other props

Starfish for the special touch

She sells sea shells by the sea shore

A boat for extra effect

Personally designed and wrapped Polo sweets (substitute for LifeSavers)

Art: Batik fun

A beautiful traditional art form that is simple for kids to attempt is batik painting.

We had an arty birthday party for the Girl and her friends, and I bought several batik painting kits, which came complete with a wax-drawn design, paint brush and paint.

There are no hard and fast rules with this sort of painting, as any colour combinations blend well together tie-dyed style. Even my 3yo Boy, who hates colouring, did an impressive magenta piece of a parrot.
 

Was wondering what to do with the many finished masterpieces. In the end, decided to get them framed nicely and hung on our kitchen wall. They sure add a splash of vibrancy to our kitchen and a good way to preserve the kiddo's early artworks.