Mandarin Books for Kids - I Finally Chose Good!

I've been slower than a tortoise when it comes to finding fun, inspiring books for my children that are written Mandarin.

Last week, I finally got up the courage to ask the young man at Hess Bookstore, "What do you read?  What do you recommend as reading for my children, who love reading, if it is not in Mandarin?"

I invested some money in a few titles from different series.  This included the Kano 3-comic set, books introducing local and international geography and history in interesting ways, and poems and stories by one of Taiwan's favorite children's poets.

My kids devoured every single one of the books you see in these photos, and are waiting for me to earn enough money to complete the sets. I photographed them so you can simply show this post to people in your local bookstore or library.  I will try to get a list of titles and authors together, but I am so excited by my own discoveries, I want to post this up right away, even with a sideways photograph.

Sporting Goods Store - Decathlon 迪卡儂 (Taichung, Taipei, Tainan, Pingtung)

After reading FB friends' online raves about the new "Decathlon" Sports Store in Neihu (Taipei), I had to find an excuse to go and check it out.  The sudden chlorine-induced collapse of the family's entire swimwear collection seemed like the perfect reason to drive over to the store and take a look.  I was not disappointed. I think it is the first time we have ever walked into a store together and spent less than 30 minutes finding the "perfect" suits for all of us at prices we can swallow.  But, it is not all about swimming; there are products for many sports and outdoor activities, all in one well-organised store.

Decathlon was founded in France in 1976.  At the end of 2013, Decathlon had 674 stores in 19 countries.  They have actually been in Taichung since 2012, but it's the new store in Neihu that is making news in the parenting circles I hang out in.  Three more stores are planned to open in Taiwan this year, so keep your eyes and ears open in your city.

Back to the swimwear.  It is usually difficult for me to find a swimsuit I like in Taiwan.  This trip, I had difficulty choosing the ONE I would bring home.  My son, daughter, and I bought a suit each, and the total was just NTD1,100. There is a lot of sun protection gear for babies through to adults, too.  We also found a child's snorkel set (mask in 3 sizes), very cheap swimwear bags, flip-flops, a very nice kite... we are set for summer!

Take a look at the online selection of women's swimsuits. The site is in Chinese, but you can flick through the menu at the top to get an idea of the range of sporting goods they have.

From the homepage images, you can also get excited about the selection of goods.  To me, the quality is similar to a department store back home - fair price and fair quality; not the general night-market risky quality I am used to seeing for the price. 

According to the sales staff (and the online information), the selection in Neihu is relatively limited, so if you have something in particular you want, you can call first to check they have it.  They will bring it in for you then you can pick it up.  And if you don't see your size, ask the staff and they can find it for you. - When I heard this, I had visions of a day-trip to the Taichung store. It must be amazing!

Click on this link to see the addresses of the stores around Taiwan, with maps.
Three stores are open 9am-10pm daily. Pingtung's opens at 10am.

Neihu:
11494 台北市 內湖區新湖一路128巷36號 (大潤發內湖1店正後方)
電話： (02) 2795-6700
No. 36, Lane 128,  Shi-Hu 1st Road, Neihu 114 (behind RT-Mart 1) - street parking

Taichung:
台中南屯店: 台灣40854 台中市 南屯區大墩南路379號 (Costco旁)
電話： (04) 2471-9666
No. 379, Dadun South Rd, Nantun District Taichung City, 408 (next to Costco) - 200 parking spaces, 70 bicycle parking spaces

Tainan:
台南西門店: 台灣70450 台南市 北區臨安路二段310號2樓 (大潤發二樓)
電話： (06) 2211-980
2F, No. 310, Lin'an Rd Section 2, North District, Tainan City, 704 (RT Mart's 2F)

Pingtung:
屏東店
台灣90065 屏東市 勝利里自由路550號 (屏東市政府對面)
電話： (08) 884-9688
No. 550, Ziyou Rd, Pingtung City Pingtung County, 900 (opposite Pingtong City Hall)

History of the World for Younger Children - Another Recommendation

 

As a follow-up to last night's history book recommendation, here is one for younger children (preschool/kindergarten/first grade).  Recommended by Taiwan-based homeschooling mom and co-author of  “我家就是國際學校” (My home is an international school),Dorota Wernik, from reviews online and her own comments, I think this would become a favorite in many households looking to introduce youngsters to history in a logical but inspiring way.

Amazon does give a lot more information about the background and content of the book, but Book Depository currently has both the paperback and hardcover in stock, and offers free shipping.

[April 13, 2013] Agape Charity Rummage Sale, Taipei

April 13th will be a busy day for family bargain-hunters!  In addition to the Bethany Sale that I will be at, the bi-annual Agape Charity Rummage Sale is also on.  I'm really pleased to see them supporting local children again this year.  I'm a firm believer in giving back to the place that has treated many of us so well over the years.

This sale has grown pretty big, so be prepared to get there early if you love getting great stuff for bargain prices.

Agape Charity Rummage Sale: April 13th:
Dear Parents and Friends of City Playgroup,
We are excited to announce the sale will be on Saturday, April 13th, from 9:00am - 12:00noon.

We are very grateful to all of you who will make donations over these next few weeks, through drop offs and directly on the day of the sale. This time all cash proceeds will be given to Christian Mountain Children's Home, an orphanage near Kaohsiung, Taiwan, that has been in operation since 1952. The website link: www.cmchtw.org.tw

All remaining items will be donated to either a local infant / toddler orphanage in Taipei City or to a charity working with aboriginal villages of Taiwan, of which both we have donated extra things to for several years now.

This is a bi-annual event that allows families to reuse and recycle, as well as de-clutter for a good cause. We are asking for donations of infant and children's clothing, books, toys, and infant and maternity related items since these things have always been the main focus of our rummage sale. We also accept adult clothing, household goods, and simple useful items that are acceptable for rummage sales.

Please Note: the only furniture we can take is infant related such as beds, strollers, playpens, and highchairs, etc.

We have been very encouraged by those who have stepped forward already to volunteer and ask that if you are interested to help in sorting, or setting up and/or working at the sale on the day, to please respond to this post, or send me a private message. We need and appreciate any help you can give! Those who volunteer for a few hours will have an opportunity to select up to (5) items they wish to purchase while sorting and at 8:30am for those who will help on the sale day, as a gesture of appreciation.

Sorting & Set Up Dates

Thursday, April 11th: 1:00 - 4:00pm

Friday, April 12th: 10:00am - 4:00pm

Volunteers are always welcome on the morning of the sale for help at the tables selling from 9:00am - 12:00noon, and packing up from 12:00 - 12:30.

Location: 3F, Building No. 21, Chang Chun Rd., Taipei City / 台灣台北市中山區長春路21 號 3 樓
(Near the intersection of ZhongShan North Rd.)

The venue is located a few blocks from the Zhongshan MRT stop, EXIT 9, on the red line. The 5th exit is in the underground mall area and that you have to head north towards the direction of the Shuanglian MRT stop while underground. You will actually take an elevator at Exit 9, It is less than a 2-block way from there.

DONATIONS
If you have any items to donate, we ask that you bring them to the following places:
Taipei Area:
-City Playgroup Thursday Outing Locations / Kelly Manske

- Kelly's home address: 台北市慶城街69號11樓 11F., Building No. 69, Qingcheng St ., Songshan Dist., Taipei City Cell: #0919-996-827 / Home # (02) 2545-0459

-AGAPE Church office / Wendy Chen: 53 MinQuan W. Rd, Taipei City, #2598 - 1009 / #0922-174-083

In Taipei area, if you have larger items to donate (infant furniture / large boxes of items) that you are not able to drop off, please contact Kelly about a pick-up.

Tien Mu / Shilin / Beitou:
Community Services Center / In care of Jennifer Chau No. 25, Lane 290 Zhong Shan North Rd., Sec. 6 Telephones: (02) 2836-8134 · 2838-4947

Neihu Area: Parent's Place / Angela Chang #315, 2F, Cheng Gong Road, Section 4, Neihu Tele: 097-066-9040 - Please call first! Website: http://www.parentsplace.com.tw/

[April 13, 2013] Bethany Flea Market, Taipei

The annual Bethany (Morrison Academy) Flea Market will be held from 9am to 1pm on Saturday, April 13th, 2013.  I will have a table there, so please come and find me if you do attend.

There is usually a very good range of books, children's games and clothing, and household goods for sale.  This time, there will be wonderful natural products made by Katerina Klimes (Mila products).  I LOVE these products, and the fact that Katerina is working very hard to grow her home-based business really impresses me.  I will be selling leggings (yes, I still have many) at really good prices, as well as some new and used household items and children's and adult's clothing.

This flea market is a great size for those of us who get overwhelmed by the crowds of some of the bigger events held.  The quality of the items for sale is enviable, too.

I took this from the Bethany website:

Address:
Ting Chou Road, Section 3, #97, Taipei Taiwan 10090
 台北伯大尼美國學校 台北市汀州路3段97號

Map:  http://bethany.mca.org.tw/bethany-about/map-and-directions

Wonderful natural products by an expat mom in Taipei, just in time for Christmas (or anytime at all!)

I'm sitting here at home, all nice and cozy and feeling great.  Taipei winter will not get to me.  I want to say a big THANK YOU to my friend Katerina Klimes for making so many great products to share with families in Taiwan.  Winters here can really dry you out and make you run down.  Katerina is determined to help us all fight these woes.  Take a look at the information below.  If you would like to order anything, contact her directly:

Facebook: bbabybar
Tel:  0916244419
Email:  

kklimes@gmail.com

BABY BAR COSMETICS

Solid Perfume: a thick balm or a stick which can be carried in the purse. There is no risk of spilling. Solid perfumes are child safe. They can be applied to the neck, chest or the wrist. Solid perfumes contain sweet almond oil and bees wax plus essential oils.

Luna 3 ml stick fresh modern scent 175 each

Maya 3 ml stick light Asian scent with sandalwood, frankincense 175 each

Fleur 3 ml stick light floral with lavender and rose base notes 175 each

UNO 3 ml stick l CK one copy (uni sex) 175 each

Perfume spray: this is a spray. It is light and natural. A perfect substitute to store bought perfume. It is available in: LUNA, MAYA, FLEUR, and UNO

Spray: 15 ml very concentrated 400 each

Perfume Roll on: It is light and natural. It has an almond oil base. A perfect substitute to store bought perfume. It is available in: LUNA, MAYA, FLEUR, and UNO

Roll on: 8 ml 300 each

Lip balm: a rich, deep hydrating lip balm. The base is almond oil and cocoa butter. There is also lanolin to protect your skin against the elements. tea tree and jasmine or lavender and chamomile

Lip balm 3 ml stick 150 each

Berry balm: a rich, deep hydrating lip balm with a light red/brown tint. The base is almond oil and cocoa butter. There is also lanolin to protect your skin against the elements. Chamomile scent and soothing properties

Berry balm 3 ml stick 150 each

Muscle rub: a soft balm about the consistency of tiger balm, but all natural and sweeter smelling. There is no petroleum jelly in this, unlike over the counter products. It soothes sore muscles and reduces inflammation and pain. It only slightly warms to the skin, but relieves quickly. The secret ingredient is black pepper oil. It also contains sage, rosemary, basil, thyme and peppermint.

Muscle rub 10 ml balm 200 each

Muscle rub 15 ml balm 300 each

Chest and feet cold relief: a balm that may be applied to the bottom of feet, chest, behind the ears or neck for combating coughing or respiratory distress. It is safe for children. It contains Eucalyptus, peppermint, rosemary and clove. Eucalyptus and peppermint are the active ingredients in Vicks vapor rub. It works quickly to ease breathing and promotes comfort and a good night sleep. * When I apply this to my daughters soles while she sleeps, within 3 minutes she is breathing quietly. The soles of the feet absorb the essential oils through the skin. It is a lovely way of giving your child medicine, without disturbing them.

Chest and feet 10ml balm 200 each

Cold and Flu BATH OIL: This is a very strong oil. It is 50 % pure essential oil. It is like a vicks in oure liquid form. You add 20-40 drops to a hot bath and soak in the goodness. It will ease sore muscles and fight cold and congestion.

Cold and Flu BATH OIL: 20 ml 400 each

Baby belly mint rub: pure and simple. This is a light belly balm. It is the same consistency as the Chest and feet balm, but it only has mint. Rub it on your baby’s belly to relieve gas and ease the tummy. There are many kinds of mint. The mint I use is recommended by all the sites. No one likes to hear their baby cry. This ought to help.

Baby belly mint rub 10ml balm 200 each

CREAMS

1. Age defy: The anti-wrinkle cream (which also has great properties against scaring and removing age spots or discoloration) is 540 for 30 ml. and 900 for 50 ml. The anti-wrinkle cream has rosehip oil, rose, rose water, ceramide (which depletes as we age), frankincense and sandalwood. It is more expensive because the pure ingredients are expensive, but it is the best you can get. I made this for my mom who is 57 and for myself to use as a cream and for scaring. I made the concentration high so that it has a high impact. ONLY THE BEST

Age defy: 30 ml tub 540 each

Age defy: 50 ml tub 900 each

2. Lotion: It is based in avocado oil which is full of vitamin E. It has chamomile and lavender oil that hydrate and soothe. This is a lovely baby cream or day cream. It is wonderful to use on the whole family. Natural goodness.

lotion: 30 ml tub 400 each

lotion: 50 ml tub 550 each

3. Super hydra cream: It is based in coconut oil, avocado oil ,which is full of vitamin E, and lanolin. This is a deep hydrating and protective cream. It can protect your cheaks from getting chapped. It can be used on heels, elbows, hands, lips, or nipples. It can soothe very dry areas and protect them for the future. (It has a light grapefruit scent)

Hydra: 10 ml tub 150 each

Hydra: 30 ml tub 400 each

Hydra: 50 ml tub 550 each

Anti-fungal cream: this cream was made for my brother, who wrestles. He get ring worm from the mats all the time. The recipe contains strong, yet gentle oils that fight the fungus and bacteria. It can be used for ring worm, or athlete’s foot, or even as prevention. It could be a unique way to moisturize your hands while killing the germs out in public.

Anti-fungal cream: 30 ml TUB 400 each

Anti-fungal cream: 50 ml TUB 650 each

STICKS AND Roll-ons

Headache rescue: a roll on oil formula that can be breathed in or applied to the temples, forehead or head. It contains lovely French Lavender. Lavender calms and relaxes, but it also relieves pain. The formula also contains Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, and Jasmine. If one feels a headache coming on, this works quickly and affectively, while promoting a calm mind.

Headache roll on: 10 ml 300 each

Immune booster: during cold season we all need a little help. This booster takes 6 immune boosting oils and packs a punch. It is safe to use for children. It can be used anywhere on the body. I would suggest that when you feel a cold coming on to rub it liberally on the soles of the feet before bed or even during the day. Wear thick socks while the oil soaks into your body. This formula contains oil of oregano, tea tree, lemon, thyme, eucalyptus, and lavender.

Booster roll on: 10 ml 300 each

Age spot lightener: this is an oil mixture of Frankincense, lemon, and castor oil. Since ancient times, people have been using frankincense to lighten age spots. It is to be applied twice a day to the affected areas. As with all natural products, the lightning will take some time. It is very gentle and non-irritating.

Age spot: 10 ml roll on 200 each

After-BITE: a new product by demand of Taiwan mosquitos. It contains Eucalyptus, Lavender, Tea tree and Witch Hazel. Please shake before rolling on. It is quite strong. (50% pure oils)

Roll on: 8 ml 300 each

Magic sticks: magic sticks contain Eucalyptus, camphor, peppermint, pine and rosemary. They are in a solid stick balm. Magic sticks can be used as inhalers to clear your nose and promote breathing. They can also be applied to the chest, temples, neck, or feet to promote good circulation and fight colds. Magic sticks can also be applied to the back of the neck for muscle relief or relief from the heat. They are strong and pack a punch.

Magic stick: 3 ml stick 150 each

EASE sticks: The Ease stick contains a muscle and joint oil formula. You can use it while traveling or on the go. You can rub it on your neck or back. At home the muscle rub is best, but this is something that can help you and you can easily have some relief on the go. The small size container and the hard stick are perfect for relief on public transit or a day out. (Contains: Rosemary, Wintergreen, Eucalyptus, Black Pepper, Pine)

ease stick: 3 ml stick 150 each

rescue sticks: this stick is the same lip balm size as the Ease and Magic. It is SAFE during pregnancy because it contains floral scents. It will ease headaches. It is also formulated to lift your spirit and balance your emotions. Rub on the temples or your neck. Breathe deeply. (Contains: lavender, Bergamot, Lemon, Grapefruit)

Rescue stick: 3 ml stick 150 each

Spray

Anti-fungal / anti-bacteria spray: this is a spray. You can spray various surfaces or your hands. It has anti-bacterial/ anti-fungal oils and witch hazel as a base. It smells great and it is gentle on the skin. Witch hazel is a natural skin tonic, so it is safe even on baby skin.

Anti-fungal / anti-bacteria spray: 40 ml 400 each

Buzz off spray: this is a mosquito and bug repellent. It has a Witch Hazel base, which is gentle even for kids. It contains citronella, lemongrass, eucalyptus oil, castor oil,, clove oil, and rosemary. Nice and strong, yet gentle.

Spray: 24 ml 350 each

[Oct 13, 2012] AGAPE Children's, Adult, & Maternity Rummage Sale

Whilst I don't particularly agree with the philosphy of the charity this sale is supporting this time round, its still a great sale and a chance to pick up some fantastic stuff for your family whilst making some new friends.  The sale is pretty crazy so be prepared! Take your own bags and change/small notes.

They are still taking donations.

AGAPE Children's, Adult, & Maternity RUMMAGE SALE, October 13th:
Dear Parents and Friends of City Playgroup,
We are excited to announce that the AGAPE rummage sale will be on Saturday, October 13th, from 9:00am - 12:00noon. 

This is a semi-annual event that allows families to reuse and recycle, as well as de-clutter for a good cause. We are asking for donations especially of infant and children's clothing, books, toys, and infant and maternity related items since this has always been the main focus of our rummage sale. We also accept adult clothing of men and women, household goods, and simple useful items that are acceptable for rummage sales. Note: the only furniture we can take is infant related such as beds, strollers, playpens, and highchairs, etc.

We are very grateful to all of you who will make donations over these next few weeks, through drop offs and directly on the day of the sale. This time all cash proceeds will be given to His Hands Taiwan, Inc., which is an organization which assists unwed mothers, by providing a home for them to live in during their pregnancy. His Hands Taiwan also helps the mother raise her child, or places the child in a loving Christian home, through adoption. Facebook site: http://www.facebook.com/pages/His-Hands-Taiwan-Inc/107210602034

All remaining items will be donated to either a local infant / toddler orphanage in Taipei City or to a charity working with aboriginal villages of Taiwan, of which both we have donated extra things to for several years now. If you have any items to donate, we ask that you bring them to the following places:

Taipei Area:
City Playgroup Thursday Outing Locations / Kelly Manske
And also to my home address: 台北市慶城街69號11樓 11F., Building No. 69, Qingcheng St ., Songshan Dist., Taipei City Cell #091-664-1144 / Home # (02) 2545-0459
AGAPE Church office / Wendy Chen: 53 MinQuan W. Rd, Taipei City, #2598 - 1009 / #0922-174-083
In Taipei area, if you have larger items to donate (infant furniture / large boxes of items) that you are not able to drop off, please contact Kelly about a pick-up at #091-664-1144.

Tien Mu / Shilin / Beitou:
Community Services Center / In care of Jennifer Chau No. 25, Lane 290 Zhong Shan North Rd., Sec. 6 Telephones: (02) 2836-8134 · 2838-4947

Neihu Area:
Parent's Place / Angela Chang #315, 2F, Cheng Gong Road, Section 4, Neihu Tele: 097-066-9040 - Please call first! Website: http://www.parentsplace.com.tw/

When: October 13, 2012, 9:00am-12 noon. 

Where: AGAPE Church at: 3F, Building No. 21, Chang Chun Rd., Taipei City / 台灣台北市中山區長春路21 號 3 樓 (Near the intersection of ZhongShan North Rd.)
The church is located a few blocks from the Zhongshan MRT stop, EXIT 9, on the red line. The 5th exit is in the underground mall area and that you have to head north towards the direction of the Shuanglian MRT stop while underground. You will actually take an elevator at Exit 9, It is less than a 2-block way from there.

Chocolate Christmas Tree Decorations at Costco (Xijhir branch)

Not my usual kind of post, but I know how hard it is to keep up the holiday spirit in Taiwan if you miss the products when they come through!  Last week, I noticed Costco has the big boxes of chocolate Christmas Tree decorations in already.  I didn't see anything for Halloween yet, though.

I'm not sure if I have a place cockroach-free to keep them where they won't melt before Christmas, but if you do, go pick up a box!

Curious Selection of Secondhand Books: Moungar Traces of Books, Wanhua

A few days ago, the kids and I ventured into West Taipei, in particular Wanhua District, including a few delightful stores and educational centers along the way.   On the way back to the train station, we came across a little bookstore carrying an interesting selection of used books, many of them for children, and quite a few in English.

They had the Harry Potter series from book two, through to "Storytime with Uncle Arthur".  We have the Uncle Arthur series back at Nana's, so I didn't pick that one up, so it's still there for the taking.

For adults, they have a really interesting range of books, and a large liquor bottle selection for sale, too.

The interior of the store is concrete and wood, and very cool and welcoming in the summer heat.  You have to ask how much each book is, and the staff will study it for a long time before giving you a price.  It's an experience!

Address: Guangzhou Street, lane 152, No. 4, 1F, Wanha District, Taipei (just around the corner from Longshan Temple, and parallel to the park)
Tel: 02-2446-2181

Second-Hand English Bookstore in Hsinchu - Over 10,000 Books! Suku Books

Suku Books opened earlier in 2012.  They boast:
A huge selection of English books (mostly for children by the looks of it)
Free coffee
Creative space
Space for rent for events
Very workable online search engine


There are a number of great images on their site to give you a good idea of the store space, like on this page.  You can search using computer, smartphone, and any APPLE products, too.

I'm really hoping someone reading this blog and living in Hsinchu can go in and leave a comment here about their experience at the store/shop.  I hope to go there over summer but time is running out!

Search engine (including prices for each book): Ask Suku.  Type in the author, title, or ISBN of the book you are looking for.

Information:
Web:SuKu.com.tw
Hours:10:00AM-8:00PM(Fri and Sat till 10:00PM)
FB http://www.facebook.com/suku.fans(share and get 5% discount)
Blog:http://suku.pixnet.net/blog
Address: Hsinchu County, Judong District, DongNing Road Sect 1, No. 207. 新竹縣竹東鎮東寧路一段207號 (easy to park by shop)
Tel: 0960-654-366