Hotel The M's Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan.

Staycations are the best, especially the ones outside of the country. Heh. 

As you may or may not know, everytime we travel, I am in-charge of finding the best deals hotel - which is something I really love doing. 

This is no different for our Japan's trip many moons ago. Our first prefecture was Kyoto, and because I know that it is important to stay near the main train station, it was the most important criteria. 

Then, cleanliness and pretty come next. 

We stayed 3 nights here, and paid a total of RM938.80 for a queen room via Agoda. They gave us the highest floor, so that is a big win ya. We requested for it, and we got it. 

I always tell people, that when you go for hotel stays or checking in for a flight to somewhere, never be shy to ask for something you want. 

"Do you have a complimentary upgrade of our room?"
"Can you give me a room with a good view?"
"Any free upgrade to business class?"

If you don't ask, then you will never get. If you ask, then you may (small percentage is still a chance) get. So, that's my go-to mantra. Hah. 

I love the modern style of design in their hotel lobby and rooms. They don't have a cafe or a restaurant, but they did up the lounge area so nicely for people to hang out and use. 

For pyjamas, toothbrush and other amenities, you got to take them by yourself at the lobby. So take what you need, and not for souvenirs to take home please. They testing Asians' self-control. Hah. Their PJs is the best, most comfiest ever. I almost want to just pay to bring them home. Super comfy! 

Sorry no photos of the room but got video (scroll below). 

Till next update, bye now. 

Things We Buy from Japan.

Sorry, we could not remember the prices..

Bring me back to Japan please. 

Life with 3 Children is Like This.

I know I am really behind the Japan's post but it is going to be a really long one. I have been typing a bit here and there, but I also need my blogging mojo to get it going good. It will come soon. 

Anyways, here's a little update on how our lives have been since we became a family of 5. 

I used to hear people saying that when you have two, getting a three would be easier. Hm, it's not entirely true.

It is easier in some things like we don't over-react easily, but man, having to manage the household things with 3 kids is hard, and exhausting. With three, both Adrian and myself really needs to be hands-on all the time. I am always really thankful that we've got help and support from our parents, sisters, cousins and friends. Every time we asked for help, most of the time, it would be a yes! Adrian and I are truly blessed. 

Here's a little routine that works for Adrian and I. 

Adrian handles all the kids' bath time, and I will put clothes on for Adam (most of the time), while Alex and Sofia put on clothes by themselves (not often though). My mom-in-law helped so much at home with the 2 older kids. They both have gotten used to going to her and Adrian for snacks and stuff, because I would usually be very occupied with Adam at home. 

I honestly don't rush my time with Adam - I know it's unfair but that's the reality. I enjoy and really slow down when I am with him because I know there is not going to be another baby of ours that I could do this with. Perhaps, I am going to do that with Vanessa's baby since Rachel is so sure they are not going to have another kid. Boo. 

Both Alex and Sofia have never showed any jealous signs, so I think they understand too, that Adam is really young and he really needs more attention. From me at least. Adrian spends more time with them because I would put Adam to bed. 

I do sometimes crave to carry him to sleep and let him sleep on me. I miss breastfeeding him for sure. But I could not restart the breastfeeding journey if I wanted to because it would set my hormones haywire again, and we all know what could happen. So, I just accept it as it is. 

I sleep-trained Adam when he was very young, because I needed to make sure I rest enough for my work the next day. He has been really easy on that which is life-changing. Sometimes, he sleeps with my mom-in-law when both Adrian and I are too tired. 

I told you that we are blessed, and I really mean it. I am not embarrassed to admit and ask for help when I need one, and I think you all shouldn't as well, especially young parents. You would be amazed to know what a 2-hours break from children can do to your mental state and marriage. 

Alex will usually play with Adrian for a while before bedtime - all sports things. It can be floorball, badminton, simply bounce ball and laugh or it can be mobile legends on Adrian's phone. Yeah, I know what you are thinking. Alex doesn't know how to play (he will deny this of course), so we just let him simply shoot or something. I don't know what they do in there but yeah. 

Sofia would usually have a healthy snack before bedtime. Like apples or oats. Sometimes, she will try to ask for chips and unhealthy snacks, but she knows she will 99% get a no from me. I am the food-police at home. The kids have to ask me first everytime they want to have "snacks". If it is up to Adrian and my mom-in-law, it's 99% yes all the time. So no, I will be a bad cop on this - I don't mind. Hah. 

We will leave Adam in his cot in the living room so he can see the big boys playing, Sofia munching away and me watching the TV or watching him. Then, I would give a countdown time to the boys and bring Adam to my room so I could put him to bed first. 

Then, we get Alex and Sofia to the room and lie down with them - read bible and take turns to pray. I would leave the room to check on Adam, and most of the time, I ended up falling asleep, especially on weekdays. Adrian would continue to lie down with them. 

We also stopped buying milk for Sofia because we wanted her to change to healthier option like oat milk or soy. But she hated both, and so she stopped taking milk. Alex is still drinking his oat milk because still got stock in our house. Hah. 

I prepped the kids snack box for school, and our kai-kai bags. Adrian will clean the mess in the room after showers. I will tie Sofia's hair and Adrian would style Alex's hair. 

Adam will just watch us from his cot or walker. 

Alex and Sofia help us calm Adam down when he gets cranky in the car, or at home. They would sing to him and oh my heart. I just cannot. I envisioned them growing up together, and loving and supporting each other forever. I love it. 

So yeah. 

Our expenses are higher now, but our hearts are really full. I find myself wishing we could have 1 more kid, but who am I kidding. We are good with three okay. 

Adam is going to be 8-months old soon. Should I start planning for his first birthday already? Hah. 

I love my little family so much sometimes I feel like I am going to burst. 

Till next update (hopefully on Japan 's trip), bye now.