2008 has been an extraordinary year thus far! The world witnessed the glory of China – an exuberant patriotism and unity of purpose to prepare for the hosting of the Olympics, an impressive opening display when a wealth of its history was so creatively presented, numerous surprised wins in sports that China is not known for, strong emotions over Liu Xiang’s unfortunate withdrawal, and a gracious display of hospitable reception to the world!

I was particularly touched when they cheered for Singapore as our table tennis team faced their best players.

And as the Games concluded, China had followed on a magnificient Olympics hosting to a historic lion share of the gold medals!

On a much smaller scale, Singapore attained a silver medal through its valiant table tennis team, and Tao Li came tantalisingly close to getting a bronze in swimming. Never mind the endless debates over foreign talent...let’s just salute and applaud our golden team for their spirit, tenacity and sportsmanship! They are the inspiration for the young!

On an even smaller scale, I turned 40+1, finally abandoned the power suit after 20 years and exchanged a significantly high opportunity cost for freedom and discovery. What fat cheques cannot buy if given the luxury of choice – time with my family, personal space and a sane lifestyle for more discoveries and enjoyment of my blessings. I thank God for his provisions and for my spouse, Gilbert who encouragingly urged, “You just do it! I will take care of the rest.”

It has been eight months since and I have gained tremendously with my two kids – Daryl at 13 and Desiree at 10. Relieved of my past hectic schedule, I now could avail the time to listen to them, chat with them often, impress and share with them my knowledge of the Internet and digital media.

My personal growth and development was not compromised as I continued to ‘work’ on developing onSponge.com from home (beauty of the digital realm) – a concept that stems from my 20-year publishing vocation. It is all about the desire to bring parents of tweens (children aged 8 to 14) to a common ‘place’ to grow in understanding on how to shape and connect with the young.

onSponge is a voice for alternative views about parenting and learning. A platform for those who care to make a difference, to share and consider options of which our kids need not be deprived.

Ever considered withdrawing your children from the mainstream educational system in Singapore and boldly placing them (not with the expensive International Schools) in a home schooling environment in Singapore? That's exactly what a SpongeStars parent did, a father of 4 who made that bold move. Let the young (the onSponge pool of ‘Sponganalists’ aged between 13 to 20) tell you where to find the latest fads your kids are likely to be drawn to. Don’t just put up the internet browser parental control facility but rather leverage on the power of the internet to bond and teach. And if time permits, check out SpongeWits for the creative approaches to learning, sharing or just simply bonding.

10th September 2008 marks the launch of onSponge.com BETA and we want you to *celebrate your family* not tomorrow or the next hour but now!

So visit us often not to stress out your kids but to enjoy them!

A parting note – why onSponge? Because we sponge on our kids with love!

God Bless

Elsa