House Of Pumpkin - Customize Children Knitwear



J.K.L Stories

May 30, 2023

🧶✨ Knitting: A Journey Worth Taking ✨🧶

🌟 Hey there, knitting enthusiasts and curious souls! 🌟

Today, I want to talk about the wonderful world of knitting and why it's a journey that's worth embarking upon. Now, let's be honest from the start - knitting is not for everyone. The beginning of your knitting adventure might not be a breeze, and that's okay. But I promise you, if you stick with it, the rewards are truly worth it.

🌈 First and foremost, knitting is addictive in the best possible way. Once you start exploring different patterns, textures, and colors, it becomes a captivating and fulfilling experience. The rhythmic motion of the needles and the soft yarn running through your fingers create a mesmerizing harmony. It's like creating art with every stitch.

🌼 Additionally, knitting has an incredible ability to calm your mind and help you unwind after a long and exhausting day. As you immerse yourself in the repetitive motion, your thoughts gradually settle, and a sense of tranquility washes over you. It's a therapeutic practice that allows you to find solace and peace in the midst of life's hustle and bustle.

 🌟 Remember, the key to becoming a skilled knitter lies in perseverance and patience. Like any skill, it takes time and practice to master the art of knitting. But fear not, for every stitch you learn brings you closer to creating beautiful garments and heartfelt gifts for yourself and your loved ones.

🎁 So, if you're contemplating whether to embark on this knitting journey, I encourage you to give it a try. Embrace the challenges that come with learning something new, and trust that the satisfaction you'll gain from your knitting accomplishments will far outweigh the initial difficulties.

🌺 Join the knitting community, discover online resources, and connect with fellow knitters who share your passion. There's a vast and supportive network of individuals ready to lend a helping hand and inspire you along the way.

🌈 So pick up those needles, choose a ball of yarn that speaks to your soul, and get ready to embark on an adventure that combines creativity, relaxation, and self-expression. Let knitting be your sanctuary, a place where you can find joy and respite from the demands of everyday life.

💖 Happy knitting, my friends! May your stitches be even, your yarn be tangle-free, and your heart be filled with warmth and contentment. Remember, every stitch tells a story, and yours is waiting to be woven into a beautiful masterpiece. ✨🧶✨

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February 06, 2023

Is Knitting Stressful?

Some people might be wondering why do I knit, since it can be quite a stressful hobby. They could never understand how could I be possibly be knitting after a long day’s work. For me, knitting means unwinding and relaxation. What keeps me calm and eases my anxiety are the repetitive and mesmerizing movements of placing together stitch after stitch.

During our knitting sessions we are joined by people who suffer from burnout, anxiety and even depression, and every one of them is adamant about the benefits they feel after knitting. Of course, even people who are naturally relaxed should start knitting, since it helps with lowering blood pressure, increase motor functions and focusing skills.

While knitting, I have met plenty of women, from all walks of life, who I have befriended and from whom I have learned a great deal. My ultimate goal for the Knitting Place is for it to become the top place where knitters gather, create and design their own knitwear. I envision it as a place where knitters will pridefully show off their creations. In the near future, we shall have Wine & Knit and Dine & Knit events, where we will be waiting for all of you, knitting enthusiasts.

For those of you who have been on this journey since 2022, I thank you deeply for being such a major part of the Knitting Place community. For those who have just joined us, you will be amazed by all that you will gain by joining our ever-growing knitting community so let’s enjoy this

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January 22, 2023

First Day of CNY

Wow, the first day of the Chinese New Year has rung its bells! My lovely sister came over for a quick lunch before joining my aunt. This year I wanted to prioritize relaxing and actually enjoying the moment, so I am done with too much visiting and coming over for dinner. We might also have some ad-hoc visiting to check off the list. So stay tuned to see what I will be up next, you never know what surprises I might have in store.

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January 21, 2023

CNY

The Chinese New Year is a festive celebration of everything that was in the past and that will come in the future. For this New Year’s Eve, I am swamped with chores, from last-minute packing and cleaning the house, to washing and folding the laundry, making sure to throw out the rubbish and sweep the floor before the first day of the New Year. If you don’t do this on the eve of the new year, Chinese people believe that you are basically throwing away your wealth. And who would want that? Definitely not me! And of course, last but not least, get the hotpot dinner ready!

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January 20, 2023

Eve of the Chinese New Year

Today marks the Eve of the Chinese New Year. We usually indulge in a hotpot dinner with my aunt and sister, and tomorrow my aunt will be enjoying a family dinner with my cousins, while my sister will join her in-laws.

Instead of our traditional hotpot dinner, this year we decided to have a potluck. Everyone will be gathering after leaving work at 6 PM, especially since we don’t have the time for a regular hotpot.

Thankfully, one thing stays unchanged each year – my aunt’s signature Dry Laska. I only get to savor it once a year, so I will make it a priority to cut down on other things just to make enough room for this deliciousness.  

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Why Seniors Should Knit
January 17, 2023

Why Seniors Should Knit

Seniors are exceptionally interested in knitting and they sure do know best, as wisdom comes with age! There are numerous benefits to knitting for seniors, especially when it comes to their mental health. Some seniors are lonely or may feel so, while some are anxious and stressed. Well, all of these negative factors decrease once they start knitting. Their minds concentrate on the task and the blood pressure is also reducing while doing so.

Seniors should also be encouraged to join a knitting class, so that they could interact and socialize. Their sense of loneliness and isolation will definitely reduce and this will offer them a sense of joyfulness.

For degenerative disease, which increase in number every year for seniors everywhere around the globe, knitting comes with real benefits. For diseases such as Parkinson, the uncontrolled and repetitive movements, that can become exhausting, are alleviated, as well, as the mind is given more happiness. Knitting is also important for delaying the onset of dementia, another common health issue for our seniors.

In the end, knitting unites and bonds people with the same hobby and portrays a world of creativity, fun and acceptance of one’s self because of its uniqueness and undeniable beauty! 

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Mum’s Birthday
December 16, 2022

Mum’s Birthday

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Nothing like family time
November 11, 2022

Nothing like family time

Sadly enough, I used to hate family dinners. Everyone sat in the same place every time, ready to start yet another quarrel and disagreement. How would one not feel fed up with this type of environment?

But you know how one starts to appreciate things once they don’t have them anymore? I have reached a point in my life where I miss those days, especially since I don’t live with my family in the same house. I started cherishing family dinners to a whole new level and I am always looking forward to spending our time together, even though there are some disagreements still.

As I am getting older, I started thinking more about my parents’ age and this is a frightening feeling for me. I try my best to see them more often and organize family gatherings and activities. Since memories are the most precious treasures a person can have, I am adamant about collecting plenty of them.

One family event I am so excited about is this year’s family photoshoot. We will all be wearing matching knittings which I did myself and we will take photos as the loving and supportive family that we are!

I can’t wait to see the end result and frame some of the photos!

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Happy 57th Birthday, Singapore!
August 09, 2022

Happy 57th Birthday, Singapore!

It is a time of celebration in Singapore today!

Each year, on August 9th, celebrations and festivities are in full bloom. Independent from Malaysia starting from 1965, Singapore has evolved at a speeding light and has proven its unique and invaluable culture.

Every year, the mesmerizing display of parades, fireworks and artistic performances gather enormous audiences that commemorate our country’s glorious past and hope for a marvelous outlook on the future.

 And to share a fun fact that is defining for our country, the name Singapore means The Lion City. Deriving from the Malay words, `Singa`- means `lion` and `-Pura` means `the city`.

Happy 57th Birthday, Singapore!

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Refusing to give up
August 02, 2022

Refusing to give up

For the past couple of weeks, I fought off the thought of giving up way too many times. I was ready to refund the money and decline the orders. I even got to the lengths of drafting a pathetic excuse to be delivered to the client, explaining why it’s impossible for me to finish the order. It was simply waiting for me to press the `Send` button.

But I’m glad I didn’t!

And this is all thanks to the people that always encouraged me to not give up on my dreams and my hard work. I invested a lot of passion, commitment and dedication to this project and I now realize that it has become such a meaningful part of me. Giving up on it would mean refusing to follow my intuition and my aspirations, simply because I encountered some bumps in the road.

Now I know that these obstacles, no matter how big or scary they may seem, are only there to push you beyond your limits, to achieve your goals and to reach far beyond what you would have ever imagined.

Every day I make the conscious decision to continue with this knitting business project of mine and, honestly, I couldn’t be prouder of what I’ve achieved thus far.

More often than not, hard times forge amazing horizons for us.

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Happy Birthday, Dad
July 22, 2022

Happy Birthday, Dad

Even though I might not be the best daughter in the world and I can’t find the perfect words for this, I know that they are from the bottom of my heart.

I already apologized for so many times, that the word `Sorry` doesn’t mean anything anymore. But I will do it once again.

I am so sorry for all of the times that I was the black sheep of the family and for consistently giving you a hard time, leaving you worried and having to solve my problems.

My appreciation wasn’t high enough for all that you did and still do for our family. Even to this day, you put up and tolerate my nonsense and frustration after I’ve had a hard day at work.

Thank you so much for being so supportive of my ideas and of my knitting business. Please don’t think that I don’t perceive all of your guidance and hype. It really helps me move further in my professional life.

In the end, I want to thank you for the most important part of my life – taking so much care of my son. I know the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree and that he most probably is giving you a hard time sometimes, but I am so grateful for you, for how patient and understanding you are with all of us.

Happy birthday, dad!

Love,

Your daughter

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Happy Birthday, Son!
June 25, 2022

Happy Birthday, Son!

Oh, how time flies! It was only yesterday that you were born and it became the best day of my entire life. I truly didn’t know what unconditional love is, until you were in my arms, my darling boy!

And if I thought that time has already flown by so fast, as you enter your teen hood, it’s as if it comprises. You have grown into your own person, with a wonderful heart and a free spirit. What I appreciate the most about you, is how you always want to help others, that you are kind and empathic and that you only wish the best for everyone.

I know that as you grow older your perceptions and ideas might change and even though we don’t always see things eye to eye, I couldn’t be prouder of the young gentleman that you have become.  

Just know that mommy will always be by your side, to guide and support you, and you can confide in me anytime you want. I am truly privileged to have a son like you that teaches me patience, compassion and dedication each day.

Thank you for making me your mommy, I love you forever!

Happy birthday, my baby boy!

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To My Father
June 18, 2022

To My Father

On this special day, I would like to dedicate this post to my dad - my son’s grandfather.

Ever since 13 years ago, when life blessed me with my amazing son, my father has been taking care of my child with a pure heart. He didn’t complain once about any difficulty and he even gave up on his social life to make sure that my son receives the best possible attention and care that there is.

He is so generous and loving, that he has never asked for anything in return. He relies on a simple lifestyle and he is truly dedicated to my son. I truly don’t know what I would have done without him. For sure, I would have tried my best, but this help made the biggest difference in raising my son into the young man that he is today.

My dad is so honest, he stands by his words and his actions. And even though he is a man of few words and I didn’t receive a big amount of affection as I grew up, as we didn’t verbally express our love for one another as often as we should have, he is one of my biggest blessings. It’s the little things that he does for the family that show how much he cares about us.

And for this, I am forever thankful to him!

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Mummies in Fashion Crime
June 13, 2022

Mummies in Fashion Crime

Starting a business from scratch, especially when you don’t have many mommy friends, nor a large network is definitely not easy! Being an introvert made it even more difficult for me to make new friends and acquaintances, as I am rarely reaching outside of my comfort zone.

This is why I feel like I need to give a big shoutout to these two amazing ladies, to whom I honestly wasn’t close to when I asked them if they were ok for their daughters to model for my knitting brand. They have been so supportive, understanding and nothing but kind to me. They always strived to accommodate my requests with no other interest in mind and I am thankful for them!

As I was looking through our conversations, unfortunately I came to the realization that I let them down as a friend. I was only asking for favors and didn’t really show them the gratitude and appreciation that they deserve for their help and patience. The truth is that without their good hearts and their talented daughters I would not have been able to display the beauty of my knittings. They offered personality to the items so everything became more than simply a piece of cloth.

I would really love to go for high tea one day and enjoy each other’s company!

@mumto4ahballings @our_clangs

📸: @sweet.escape

Use the code KDFJU during check out for 15% OFF your photography package + free all photo!

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International Family Day
June 01, 2022

International Family Day

On June 1st, every year around the world, parents are being celebrated for their commitment, devotion and love they unconditionally offer to their children. It’s a beautiful occasion to tell your parents how much you appreciate them and how important they are to you.

When it comes to my family, let’s say we had our fair share of disagreements throughout the years. Even though the members of my family were very close to each other, I, on the other hand, wasn’t. I was perceived as the black sheep of the family, since I didn’t always agree with them and I usually did things my way (also, who doesn’t love a little black sheep? Have you actually seen how cute they are?).

Anyway, even though I was seen that way, I should be more adamant in saying how much I actually love and appreciate them. They are wonderful human beings and have such good hearts. They conduct every action with our best intentions in mind and always think of our interests. They are loyal, committed and so generous!

Of course, even nowadays we have our differences and we don’t see eye to eye on almost everything, but, in the end, I know they the best people I can rely on and confide in. And for this, I am forever thankful and I love them so very deeply!

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Vintage Photoshoot
May 29, 2022

Vintage Photoshoot

It’s a wrap!

After never-ending months of planning, postponing the shooting twice, missing clothing parcels and changing 3 photographers due to Covid and Dengue, we’ve made it!

We even finished the shooting within an hour, despite the scorched temperatures.

We chose the fabulous @mamadiam.prinsep for our location. We loved it for its ‘90s inspired vibes and Singaporean cultural heritage that they display in their bar and menu. We thought it would be a fantastic choice, especially since this younger generation is unfamiliar with the old-school atmosphere. The kids were ecstatic playing with props and enjoyed the outdoor space as well. Our photoshoot captured their excitement and joy - a true display of honest childhood happiness.

We are so grateful to @sebastianang and the entire staff at the @mamadiam.prinsep for receiving us with open arms and allowing us to use their inspiring place.

We also couldn’t be more thankful for you, @kar3n.lim Thank you for showing up!! You offered us great support and we appreciate it so much! It’s wonderful to have you by our side!!

To our dear young superstars’ mothers - @chengnj , @mumto4ahballings and @our_clangs , we are so grateful for you! We truly could not have done this photoshoot without you.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being there for us and supporting us with your beautiful words of encouragement and smiles. Your kids behaved so professionally and we were so happy to see the wonderful results of their work. We hope all of you had a lovely time with us and that you felt as wonderful as we did, having you there with us!

We can’t wait to have you kids and ladies by our side again for our next photoshoot and enjoy our time together!!

P.S.: No more heat and hot places next time, i promise, haha!

Stay tuned for the photos 📸

xoxo,
JK & DJ

📸: @sweet.escape

Use the code KDFJU during check out for 15% OFF your photography package + free all photo!

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Finding My Cadence Through My Business
May 23, 2022

Finding My Cadence Through My Business

My journey as an entrepreneur begun as I was searching for an answer to an ever-present questions that I had – `How can I be a better mother and when is my light going to final shine the brightest?`

I found my drive to having my own business into my desire to provide to him the best possible life that I could, as a full-time working mother. What amazed me was that the answer was right in front of me: I combined my passion for knitting with my imaginative side and this is how House of Pumpkin came to light.

During this process, I had to face a lot of hurdles, but my willing to prove to myself and to my son that when you truly work and wish for something you can achieve it, triumphedover every impediment that I had.

Today, one of the biggest joys that this business offers me is the bonding time I get to share with my son. Also, as a woman, I realized that this business gave me the confidence that I needed. It was finally that stepping stone in my personal growth that I was longing for. It enriched me with courage, resilience and it proved me that if I believe in my vision, I shouldn’t take `no` for an answer.

This business gifted me the cadence I need in my life, so that I could become a better mother and a fulfilled human being.

So pleased to be part of this inspiring campaign with the women entrepreneurs of @cribsociety in partnership with @senreve. Read more stories here #CribXSenreve

 

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Mother’s Day
May 07, 2022

Mother’s Day

Being a mother is no easy task. You juggle a lot of activities and you wear a lot of hats, walk in a lot of shoes and try to keep your head on top of the water at the of the day to catch a breath for yourself. This is especially harder if you are a single mother. Also, being a single mother to a teenage boy doesn’t help very much either, does it? It is a pulling moment type of situation every single day, to be completely honest with you.

Of course, as no one is perfect, nor am I. I might not have put in 110% towards being the best mother every day. And I don’t even know if that’s even possible. Society has a way of adding unnecessary pressure towards women and mothers and make them feel guilty if they don’t come perfect at the end of every day.

However, the best reward is the love my son and I have for each other. I am proud of the person he is becoming and I know he always has his best intentions at heart. I hope one day he will understand how much love I have for him!

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House Of Pumpkin And Crane Event for Mother’s Day
May 04, 2022

House Of Pumpkin And Crane Event for Mother’s Day

As Mother’s Day is coming up this weekend, everyone is excited about this cheerful event. I am also delighted to be partnering with Crane for this weekend’s Single Mom Pop-up event!

It’s a celebratory gathering, where we invite everyone, from single mothers, parents, divorcees, to even the blissfully committed, to open up their hearts and engage in our informal therapy narrative.

There will be open sharing sessions, a special presentation by Cheryl Lee and, the cherry on the cake and my personal favorite ace up the sleeve, a House of Pumpkin knitting workshop!

I will be thrilled to be conducting knitting lessons for you, at only $20 per pax! We will combine social interaction with fun and engaging knitting information. In the end, you will have gained not only a new acquired skill set, but also create meaningful memories.

Another exciting news is that I had an open conversation with Ayodya from Crane’s editorial team! We invite you to take a look and read this heartfelt article about single moms turned entrepreneurs. You will learn bits and pieces about @sash_in_singapore and myself and how we managed to survive the break-ups that ended us up as single mothers.

Click on the link below my profile to discover the article!
https://www.wearecrane.com/stories/category/love

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Understanding our children
May 03, 2022

Understanding our children

Parents always want what is best for their children. Or at least what is best in their opinion.


However, the tough reality is that parents have their own struggles to deal with and, with their busy schedules trying to juggle as many hats as possible, we barely see our children every day as much as we would like to. And in this lengthy process, they grow up and form their own personalities, preferences and dislikes.
They become unique individuals who have their own thoughts, feelings and who act accordingly to their beliefs. For them, parents become the authority figures who appear to only know how to set high standards and impossible expectations, without knowing if the child met any hurdles along the way.


And this is where frustration and miscommunication come into the limelight. On both sides, there is a skewed perception of the other’s lack of cooperation or unwillingness to come to terms. Parents tend to believe that the children are rebellious or misbehaving on purpose, but have we really put in the effort to walk a mile in their shoes? Imagine trying to understand and discover this big world and constantly having someone in your ear nagging you about how you should become a high achiever. It is not too pleasant, is it?


So, one question arises in all of this gray situation – do we really understand our children or do we start any argument having in mind that we always know it best?


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Happy Birthday, My Darling Friend
April 30, 2022

Happy Birthday, My Darling Friend

It’s been 15 years now, since I first met this outstanding woman. It all started at work and I remember that the very first time I saw, I felt such a deep hate, it was despicable. However, I can’t pinpoint the exact reason why I felt that. I must’ve been judging her without actually knowing her.

Now, thinking back, I can’t even remember in what circumstance we actually became friends. This is hilarious!

During these 15 years of true, devoted and meaningful friendship, I was lucky enough to get to know her real self and she is so beautiful inside and out!

Sadly, we don’t meet as much as we would love to, since we’re both full time working mothers and our schedules clash most of the time. However, if I’m lucky, I usually get to meet her once or twice a year, but I would really love for this to change for the better and meet more often.

I will admit that there are times when I definitely think that I find excuses for myself for not putting in the extra effort to meet her more often. Or maybe I do this because she has this incredible ability to see right through me and read me like a book. She has truly become my walking conscience. I can’t even think to tell her a lie because she spots it from a mile away!

There were many times when I couldn’t deliver her the knitwear I promised I would, due to a thousand reasons. And even though I’m not sure if she’s disappointed in me or not, she never fails to be supportive and understanding. She has such a big heart and is so selfless! Every time I need help forthe kids models, she never hesitates to step in. She is always available to talk or answer any of my questions, the best she can. We could talk for hours and not get bored by each other.

Sometimes I take a trip down the guilt lane and I wonder if I don’t somehow take her for granted, because she is so kind and thoughtful. Nevertheless, I am utterly grateful for all of the happy and tough moments we shared together and I am blessed to have her as my friend.

Happy belated birthday and Happy Mother’s Day, my darling friend!

 

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Growing Up
April 26, 2022

Growing Up

I have started my business with the utmost pure intentions and with the right reasons in mind.
However, along the way, I lost sight of what is truly important.

Being betrayed is never a fun experience, especially when it comes from someone close. I felt really overwhelmed and uncertain of everything around me. As if I wasn’t sure of anything anymore.

I remember a thing she said to me: `Friends come and go, always think of yourself and your needs first!`
I know that human beings have a certain inborn selfishness. I never truly thought that people so close to you cand betray you like this.
To make you first believe and rely on them, only to stab you in the back and to show you their true colors.

So, all I want to say is that if you want to succeed in life, you have to do it yourself! You shouldn’t depend on anyone. Of course, it is great if you found someone reliable and loyal, but if not, you have to be ready to do it by yourself.

Believe in yourself first!
It was a hard lesson to learn, but I will come out if it stronger and with more zest for success!

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Upcoming Mother’s Day
April 07, 2022

Upcoming Mother’s Day

Just one more month to Mother’s Day and it got me thinking….

Mothers are the heart and soul of the society. They give to us the precious gift of life, they raise and educate us and always believe in us, even when we don’t.

I am blessed to have such a loving, caring and devoted mother. She is the one person I know I can turn to no matter what, even if it’s simply for a small advice or for a casual talk. She is my pillar and I am forever thankful for the strong and beautiful relationship that we share.

She is also beyond anything I had hoped or imagined a grandmother would be. I truly understood her completely only when I became a mother myself. She loves my son without measure and I am thrilled that they enjoy the journey of life together.

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