Reminiscence

Blog vs Facebook

2010-01-20T16:44:00.002+08:00

It has been a long time since I last wrote on my blog. I seems to be a thing of the past to blog now that Facebook is the in-thing.

Do I still want to maintain a blog if I am using Facebook? Something I will ponder...

A "spiritual" taxi ride to the airport

2008-09-17T22:10:00.007+08:00

This was the most fruitful taxi ride that I ever had in Singapore.

J and I took a cab to Changi airport on 4 September 2008 to catch our flight to Hong Kong.

Taxi driver: "Where are both of you travelling to?"

Jay: "Hong Kong."

Taxi driver: "What are you doing there?"

Jay: "We are going there for a church conference."

Taxi driver: " Oh...so both of you are Christians! What lead you to become Christian?"

I shared my personal conversion story and the taxi driver, who is about 40 years old, shared that he was born of a Christian family and when he was younger he wondered and questioned whether his Christian faith has any solid basis. He went on his personal research and journey of who God is in his life.

Taxi driver: "Do you know that many religions' scriptures were written by people after the founding of the religions? Before Jesus was born, there were already hundreds of prophecies written in the Old Testament about the birth and death of Jesus with pin-point accuracy. You read Isaiah 53, Micah 5, Daniel 7, Psalms 2, 110."

He shared as we grow in knowledge and understanding of who God is in our lives, we will pale in comparison to His greatness.

He used to be a chef and he worked in Thailand and Switzerland for a several years. He gave a very interesting illustration about faith.

Taxi driver: "The Chinese way of cooking soup and the Western way of cooking soup is different. To thicken the soup, the chinese add corn starch while the western adds flour and butter. The chinese soup will thicken as it is heated but as the soup is heated continuously, the soup will become watery again. The western soup will get thicker and thicker as it is heated continously. Our faith in the Lord should be like the western soup. As we grow in the Lord, our faith will grow stronger and stronger."

Our faith is like a seed that grows into a tree whose roots go deep into the Word of God. Our faith will grow strong when we build ourselves on the right foundation. If our faith weakens over the years, it is likely that we are building our faith on the wrong foundation.

Taxi driver did not give me a good impression initially as the taxi was a rather untidy. Our God does not look at the appearance but He looks at the heart. This man has great wealth of spiritual knowledge and understanding that has blessed our hearts, minds and souls.

A 45 minutes journey on the road was indeed a blessed one from the Lord.

Happy Birthday Singapore!!

2008-08-09T09:35:00.004+08:00

God bless Singapore!

Are you a good listener?

2008-08-09T08:51:00.007+08:00

This week I was watching the Star Chef 2 on Channel 8 where contestants are to cook based on a given theme. They were judged not just on their cooking skills but also character, time management, marketing skills and etc which are required of a 'world-class' chef. Sam Leong, who is a co-host and a judge, chided a contestant for not being a good listener who likes to do what he wants and is not open to comment and feedback. He said that to be a world-class chef is someone who is open to critical and contructive feedback so that he can improve his culinary skills and also at the same time build a rapport with his team (if he has a team with him).

I am currently reading the book of Proverbs and I was reminded of these verses:

"Now then, my sons, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways.
Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it.
Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway.
For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the LORD.
But whoever fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me love death."

~ Proverbs 8:32-36

Even as I learn to be a good listener in my daily life, it is also important that I take time to listen to what God wants to speak to me. Most of the time we can hear His Voice clearly when our hearts are still and ready to hear His Voice. When we hear His Voice and we can speak His Heart and Voice in our world.

Good food at Caffe Pralet

2008-07-26T21:51:00.005+08:00

Located at Eng Soon Street, there lies Caffe Pralet. It's location is quite obscure and it took J and I a while to find this cafe recommended by J's friend. This cafe is also owned by Chef Judy, who also runs Creative Culinaire Cooking School of which I am considering signing up.

Both of us ordered a set meal each which comprised of a drink, main dish and cake. The total bill only came up to $22. J has fish and chip, plum juice and the signature cheese cake and I had Seafood baked rice, plum juice and Irish Bailey Gateau. Both of us left the cafe very satisfied.

Good quality food at very reasonable price.

I highly recommend this cafe.

Standard Chartered Marathon

2008-07-24T23:29:00.010+08:00

J, my sister, brother and I just signed up for Standard Chartered Half Marathon on 7 Dec 2008.

I did my first half marathon in 2004 (see photo on the left). I really felt very good after completing the run. It felt like I have did something great and challenging in my life. Maybe one of these days I will try FULL marathon ;p

My company will fully sponsored this run which makes it a good reason for me to participate this year ;)

I have not been running regularly and I will only have 4 more months to shape up. It is time for me to regain the lost ground and to remove any mental block that will hinder me to complete the run. It's a physical and mental challenge.

I am looking forward to run with my family. Our first time running together ;)

"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. " - Hebrews 12:11

The Busy Woman's Guide to a Balanced Life

2008-07-24T23:00:00.006+08:00

I have been reading this simple yet practical book which I bought a few months back at Bible Society.

I highly recommend to ladies who need fresh ideas and tips in our daily living.

Let me know if you want to borrow this book from me :)

Poor Lewis

2008-07-12T15:56:00.006+08:00

It has been an eventful morning. Lewis was caged and he was furious and he tried to force his way out of the cage using his teeth. He broke this front upper tooth and he was having difficulty breathing. I was so shocked and worried! I quicked called my sister in Taiwan and told her what happened then J and I drove down to Animal Clinic to treat Lewis. I prayed for him on our way there that God will preserve him.

We waited for almost 2 hours before Lewis was "checked out" from the clinic. While waiting we chatted with a few pet owners about their pets and their experience with animals. Quite interesting!

It must be a painful experience for Lewis. He was tearing and it pained my heart to see him teared and breathing so hard. We met the vet and was told that Lewis needed to do minor surgery to remove his tooth as it is affecting his breathing. As much as we would like to preserve his only upper front tooth, it has to be removed.

His only front tooth is gone....;(

Thank God that He preserves this little one.

Sweet Indulgence

2008-07-10T19:59:00.006+08:00

I have a dream of being one of the best chef around...haha...will this dream come to pass?? We'll see...keke..

Yesterday I went for my first dessert making class at Bentfork Cooking School. Out of the 6 students, 3 students of them drove all the way from KL to attend this class.

We learnt how to make:

1. Lime & Jasmine Parfait
2. Tiramisu
3. Mille Feuille of Summer Fruits with Vanilla Sabayon
4. Chocolate Hazelnut cake

Too much sweet stuff for the night ;p

Next month, there is a pasta class. Probably I will go. I love pasta!

Baby-sitting....& housekeeping

2008-07-10T19:20:00.012+08:00

J and I are baby-sitting this whole week till this Sunday. My family are away for holiday and no one is at home to take care of our pet rabbits, gold fish, tetra fish, terrapins and to water the plants. We move to our parents' house temporally to feed them in the morning and evening.

This is Lewis. He is about 7 years old. Quite old for his age and thank God he is still healthy...;)

I still have a lot of my personal stuff at my parents' house. I have been trying to clean and clear my stuff to bring to my house. As I messed around, digging deep to stuff that I have not touched for years, I discovered several 'treasures' that are long-lost. My mom found a $50 note hidden away in one of my bags. I saw a Precious Moment cross-stitch that I did many years ago and it still needs a few finishing touch before completion. I saw a lot of the encouragement cards and letters that church friends, my brother and other friends gave to me since my school days. I read a few cards and letters and I was moved and touched.

Even as I reflect, we live in the here and now and a lot of times we forget the past that led us to where we are today. God reminds me to be grateful and thank God for all the people that I have met, I have been touched and I have touched. Thank God for the sweet memories that remind me of His goodness in my life ;-)

If - Bread

2008-05-28T22:59:00.003+08:00

J is learning to play this beautiful piece of oldies...:-)

If - Bread

If a picture paints a thousand words,

Then why can't I paint you?

The words will never show the you I've come to know.

If a face could launch a thousand ships,

Then where am I to go?

There's no one home but you,

You're all that's left me too.

And when my love for life is running dry,

You come and pour yourself on me.

If a man could be two places at one time,

I'd be with you.

Tomorrow and today,

beside you all the way.

If the world should stop revolving spinning slowly down to die,

I'd spend the end with you.

And when the world was through,

Then one by one the stars would all go out,

Then you and I would simply fly away

Photos to WOW you

2008-05-22T23:14:00.003+08:00

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Link

I Eat I Shoot I Post

2008-04-22T14:21:00.004+08:00

IEATISHOOTIPOST.SG is a new food critic site that blogs Singapore's best food. Yummy!!

Larkin Step - Ling86

2008-04-18T20:46:00.005+08:00

Beautiful melody but the meaning of this song is difficult to understand. This is written by a local Singaporean, Ling86.

God he turned and walked away
I couldn't think of what to say
when plane engines fall through your roof
and I broke my knee while walking down the street that I live in
While no one was passing by

Chorus:
Life goes along and it trickles down the cheeks of every beautiful boy
Time moves along and it breaks every bone in your spine

Into the flight of night
Insomnia strikes and hopes alight
We set ourselves up to fall
So we stargaze and we write down all the things that we'll do
Fall into the river our pockets full of stones
Full of stones..

Chorus, etc.

Copyright, 2007
ling86

How should I move forward....

2008-04-18T12:46:00.013+08:00

Just thinking how I should move forward with my blog, given that now that I am also on Facebook. One disadvantage of Facebook has is that it does not me to write down my thoughts or stuff that I would like to share with my friends.

Yesterday I went to a workshop, "Finding the Right Words" conducted by Natasha at the Post Museum near Farrer Park.

It was an eye-opener and insightful session where people who are interested in writing and communcation come together to share, discuss and learn from one another on how to find the right words to communicate honestly to the target audience. I must said I have learnt much from this session.

It never really occurred to me the huge amount of work that goes into the heart, mind and soul in writing a good piece of work to convey a key message to a target audience. Another aspect is also how we can engage the readers or audience.

Natasha shared with us a few examples of what she thought were good writings:

1. The (RED) Manifesto

2. The Problem Playground - Honda

3. Howie

While sharing and discussing with the group in workshop, I remembered the Hope Brisbane Youth Ministry website that I visited. It is not plainly called "Youth Ministry" but Ablaze! Ministries International. I am quite impressed by how Ablaze! communicates to their community. One the other hand, I am thinking why our CG name is like a code name. It does not really communicate and excite the people. An area that we need to improve.

"People who write well, think well", a quote I like from "We, Me, Them & It" by John Simmons.

So much more to learn about writing and communicating....

Create online survey for free

2008-04-09T12:59:00.003+08:00

It has been a long time since I last updated my blog now that I am also using Facebook.

If you want to create online survey for free, check out SurveyMonkey.com.

Not One Less

2007-12-24T13:41:00.000+08:00

Just watched a film called "Not One Less" that I bought recently directed by Zhang Yimou. I enjoyed this movie a lot especially one part which was quite touching. Teared a bit...

Let me know if you would like to borrow this vcd from me.

Our new Wedding Website

2007-12-22T00:36:00.000+08:00

Dear friends, you are welcome to visit our newly created wedding website. More updates to come... ;-)

Nanking

2007-12-19T22:49:00.000+08:00

Over the weekend, Jay, my sister, her friend and I went to Vivo City to watch "Nanking", a documentary of the Japanese invasion into China mainly from the perspective of the westerners. It highlights how the evils of war were inflicted upon the Chinese and those who stayed behind to help the Chinese by setting a safety zone.

Though generally I find this film rather "flat", it does set my mind thinking on how I would response if I was in such dire situation.

How can one be like Job who went through the worst in life and yet never bow down to the situations in life and emerge victoriously?

In this film, there was an American missionary who was like a godsend to the Chinese, had been a source of strength for the Chinese refugees especially the females whom she tried her best to keep them from the Japanese soldiers. After a prolong period of time, she had a nervous breakdown and unfortunately committed suicide.

I do not know how I would response if put in such situation but I do know that by God's grace if I learn to set my heart and mind on the goodness of God and that He cares and loves me despite all things I know I will be able to keep my sanity.

We may not go through such dire situations but are we defeated by the stress of life?

Our faith will be tested.

My prayer is that by God's grace and mercy we can be victorious in all situations that cross our path.

Be the fruit that can last till the end.

Wedding...photo

2007-11-17T12:52:00.000+08:00

This is one of the bridal photos that we like.

THE BIG DAY is less than 2 months now. Wow!! Exciting!!

Thank God most of our preparation are more or less settled. We are looking at the finer details to see whether we miss out anything.

Thank God for all our friends and family members who are helping us to prepare for our wedding ;-)

Your love is most treasured!

3-10 Nov 2007 - Shanghai

2007-11-11T21:40:00.000+08:00

My chinese colleagues Elva (left), Amelia (right) and myself (centre)

Just came back from training in Shanghai. The weather is cool at around 12-18 degree celsius. I bought a few long sleeves top when I was there. I did not bring enough clothes ;p Shanghai is the business hub in China. I am impressed when I walked down Nanjing Road at night in Shanghai.

A big Coca-Cola advertisement

I extended my trip to catch up with Liujie whom I have not met for more than 5 years. I also met up with his wife and another friend.

He brought me to an 'ancient' city on the west part of Shanghai. We took a public tranport for about 1.5 hours. It looks like Hoi An in Vietnam. Many small stores side-by-side and across the stores along an alley.

Some local products.

Liujie

Dee

Share with you some interesting pictures I took in Shanghai.

This tree is very special.

People use the dried fruit as scrub.

Shop for a Cause

2007-10-29T22:35:00.000+08:00

I just started a new online business called SHOP FOR A CAUSE by selling 2nd hand, used or new stuff which are still in good condition and the amount earned will be donated to charitable organizations.

Do take time to frequent this shop for "new" products launched. Your patronage will be the key to our success.

Captivating

2007-10-25T19:16:00.000+08:00

Today I met a lady to collect a book called "Captivating: Unveiling the mystery of a woman's soul". We were connected to each other through Freecycle. We had a brief conversation about yourself and I am impressed with her giving spirit. She enjoyed and was captivated by this book. She bought 5 extra books to give them away to bless others. I was one of the blessed recipients. Thank God for such people who have a big heart for others.

Prior to meeting this lady, I received an SMS from a friend who told me that she had an article to share with me. I gave her a call while I was waiting for the lady. It is amazing how God works! My friend was sharing to me about an article from "Captivating" which I would be collecting shortly.

After collecting this book, I walked down from Dhoby Guat to Somerset for lunch. After lunch, I went to Times Bookshop at Centrepoint and I bumped into my ex-collegue who is also a good friend of mine. I shared with him my 'little' experience with God ;-)

Counting down...

2007-10-20T10:51:00.000+08:00

It is only 84 days to our wedding day. That day is approaching soon! It is natural for all of us to anticipate and look forward to something good that is going to happen ;-)

Even as I write this post, it reminds me that even as Christ-followers we should always have such keen anticipation of the greater glory in future when He comes back again. The hope that will never disappoint us.

After selecting our 30 poses for our wedding album late September, we will get to see the final design of your wedding album early November. Can't wait to get hold of the softcopy of the pictures so that we can start to work on the slides and other stuff.

Thank God we were given the date to select our HDB flat after my trip from Shanghai mid November. Pray that we will have a good unit.

Pet Obituaries

2007-09-23T18:21:00.000+08:00

Sob! Sob! Phoebe, my pet rabbit passed away on 21 Sep 2007. His death is posted on Pet Obituaries.

Home living...

2007-09-17T22:28:00.000+08:00

Jay and I have been window shopping for our new home, which we will get soon. Pray for us that we can get a house by Oct and latest Nov 2007.

Over the weekend, we went to Singapore Expo with the intention to get a good package for our honeymoon but in the end we spent most of our time at the home living exhibition next door. We bought a Slumberland mattress that comes with a bed frame, 2 pillows, protector for less than $1.7K for Queen-size from Bedding Saloon. We can upgrade to King-size at less than $2K. This unit can be delivered to us within a year from the date of purchase. We only paid 2% deposit. The Sales person told us that if we find a lower price for the same model that we are purchasing, the company will match the price. We can change the brand of the mattress if we prefer other brand. The good thing is that we could still enjoy the promotional price offered during the exhibition. It is a good buy.

We learnt something new from the Sales person regarding the no interest installment offered by various shopping centre/outlets in Singapore. It is not true that the consumers are paying no interest installment for the goods that they are purchasing because the products bought are usually marked up by at least a few hundred dollars.

Today after work, Jay and I went to IWANNAGOHOME at Great World City. Just want to check this new designer home living boutique which I read about not long ago. The products are relatively expensive and cater to higher-end market. The items are pretty big and are more suitable for big houses. I like a $1000+ chandelier on display but too expensive ;p We flipped through a few books on interior design to gather some ideas for our new home.

This coming weekend, we will check out a few home lighting outlets.

If you have any good recommendation on good deals/buy, it will be great that you can share with us.

The mood of the skies...

2007-09-16T14:05:00.000+08:00

Did u notice the different mood of the skies on different days? Like human beings, skies have mood swing too. One day of grey, one day of gay...how to judge the day?

Singapore Seen

2007-09-13T22:10:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, Singapore felt the tremor from the earthquake in Sumatra at about 7+pm. I only knew about this when my brother told me when he was at home after his work. I clicked STOMP immediately to check whether any STOMPer contribute any latest news online. As expected, I saw several videos on the tremors felt at home.

It is easy to snap photos/videos wherever we go with the prevalent use of digital cameras and built-in camera on our handphones. Be careful not to make yourself "news-worthy" in public or you may find your own pictures/videos online :p

Pau...

2007-09-11T00:19:00.000+08:00

Just want to share something which I find amusing...

Imagine a city filled with various kinds of Cha Siew Pau, vegetable Pau. By the way, Pau is a type of chinese bun. There is a city called PAU in the Bible. Genesis 36:39.

Love and Faithfulness

2007-09-08T12:36:00.000+08:00

Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.

~ Proverbs 3:3-4

Wedding photoshoot..thank God for a clear day!!

2007-09-05T22:08:00.000+08:00

It has been raining cats and dogs for the past few weeks. Jay and I have been praying and asking God to give us good weather today. Two days before our scheduled wedding photoshoot, we called to check whether it was possible to postpone our photoshoot but the next available date would be end October. I checked Meteorolgical services by National Environment Agency (NEA) for the weather forecast on our photoshoot date and it indicated that there will be shower in the late morning and early afternoon. Despite the weather forecast, I felt assured that God will give us a good weather.

One day before the photoshoot, I checked NEA website again. It indicated 'Cloudy' instead of shower. I was overjoyed and thank God in my heart. I called Jay immediately to tell him that God has answered our prayer. Honour to our God!!

We arrived at Jazz Bridal at about 10am to make up and did our hair-do. It took about 2 hours to make-up and have our hair-do. We had our studio shoot from about 12pm to 3+pm then we had our meals before heading out for outdoor shoot. Everything went smoothly and finished at about 6+pm and we were thankful to God for watching over us.

Along the way, we chatted and shared with our photographer, Ah Ye about God, life, our society, work..etc.

Yeah! One wedding task done - Photoshoot! But we have to wait for 3 weeks to view and select the pictures. Can't wait to see them!!!

Today happens to be my parents' wedding anniversary too.

Thank God for His faithfulness and love in our lives ;-)

Leaving Microsoft to change the world...

2007-09-03T22:02:00.000+08:00

Yesterday I just wrote something about changing the world. Indeed, a man of vision can change and shake the world for better. I am half way through this book, "Leaving Microsoft to change the world", that I borrowed from the National Library.

John Wood, ex-Microsoft senior executive, left Microsoft to start a charity organization, which is now called Room to Read.

It all started when he trekked in Nepal and saw the lack of educational resources in the country and this cause moved him to quit his high profile job to start a non-profit organization.

When you travel overseas, you never know what will move your heart to make the world a better place...

One man can change the world...

2007-09-02T22:33:00.000+08:00

Today's sermon by Pastor Ben was great! I am inspired by the story that he shared about a group of students who stood up in the Shareholder's meeting to speak against the wrongs that the company did in exploiting the poor in another countries by not paying them well and did not give them adequate welfare to improve their lifestyle. These group of students got the attention of the directors and top management and a separate meeting was arranged to talk to them. All these discussion influenced how the company runs the business and the humanitarian project the company embarked to improve the lifelihood of the poor people.

If we are convicted and bold enough to stand against evil, we can change the world!

I just finished reading "Tuesdays with Morrie" today. This book is a birthday gift from a friend. An inspiring true story of a dying professor who formed his own personal culture on how he dealt with many issues in life: love, family, marriage, death, culture, meaning of life....

We struggle with issues like death, love, meaning in life...irregardless of our background, faith, education

How we deal with these issues will depend on how we perceive and response to them.

A good review by CNN on this book.

Psychometric Tools

2007-08-29T22:10:00.000+08:00

Today I went for a seminar on how my company uses Psychometric Tools/Logic Test to select and recruit people. It is enriching to understand how individuals' profiles will affect the management's decision to recruit and also in job matching.

Great Wall here I come....

2007-08-19T18:19:00.000+08:00

I thank God for the privilege of being offered the opportunity by my company to go for overseas training in China. I just came back from Beijing, China yesterday. After a week of class-room workshop and outdoor experiential leadership training climbing one of the 7 wonders of the world, the Great Wall in Beijing. I was exhausted but grateful.

I would share with you some interesting snapshots of what I have seen, observed and learnt.

Guess where can u find this fish?

Answer: It's very amusing. It is part of the table decoration where we dined.

As part of corporate social responsibility, a visit to Hope Primary school is organized for us to learn to look beyond our scope of work in office. A company, even as individuals, should look at how to benefit the society at large.

We spent an afternoon with them painting, drinking and eating snacks, played their local game related to great wall on the field in front of their school, tug of war..etc.

Their school do not have adequate facilities. I visited the toilet and I was shocked. We, Singaporeans are very privileged to enjoy good education back home.

We also attended a 2 day workshop on Taking charge of your development. It is very insightful and practical. I can even use some of the materials for my caregroup ;-)

We stayed one night at Great Wall Courtyard before we left next day for Great wall. I had never stayed in a chinese courtyard before. Something very fresh and new to me ;-)

We climbed the ancient Great Wall of China, the section that is not refurbished for tourists. My colleagues told me that if we walked the touristic part of Great Wall, we would not see any wall but sea of people. The sight of the ancient Great Wall is spectacular! No wonder it is one of the 7 wonders of the world!

We spent a night in a tent near Great Wall after walking and climbing the wall for 3 hours. The next morning, we walked up hill to the one of the highest point at Great Wall to have a bird's eye view of the magnificient creation.

Above is my NIKE running shoes after the Great Wall climb. I left this pair of shoes which has been with me for more than 2 years in Beijing.

Lesson learnt: I must wear the proper shoes for mountain trekking.

More photos here.

J hit his personal record!

2007-08-18T19:15:00.000+08:00

Jay did his personal best in bowling last Sunday (12 Aug 07). So proud of him ;-)

Wedding bells drawing near...

2007-08-03T09:24:00.000+08:00

Today I will be going to the Bridal shop to select my wedding gown ;-) Wah...the day is approaching...

Wedding is one of the most elaborate events in our lives where we will spend a lot of $$, time, resources and energy for this SPECIAL ocassion.

Are you sober enough?

2007-07-19T23:52:00.000+08:00

Several things are happening in my life that I would want to be thankful. I am enrolled in a 2-year training where I could travel to China every quarter for training. I am going to get married early next year ;-) Looking forward to that day.

Recently, I was clearing my stuff and I happened to see this personality test I did 2 years ago, as I looked through it just dawned on me the importance of knowing and seeing myself clearly for who I am. I am who God created me to be and I should not aim to be someone that I am not. I have to honestly accept who I am in Christ and seek to continue to grow in my character, love, understanding and knowledge of Him.

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. - Rom 12: 3-5

LOVE above all - 27-29 Jul 07

2007-07-14T11:24:00.000+08:00

“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose."

In the 1950s, five American Christian missionaries made contact with the most fearsome and dangerous tribe in the Amazon. In the encounter, Jim Elliot and four of his missionary friends were savagely killed by the Auca Indians. The event shook the world.

Love Above All tells a gripping story of the profound impact the event had on the lives of the Auca Indians of Ecuador. It gives an account of how Elisabeth Elliot persisted to reach out in love to these killers in a remarkable act of love, forgiveness and reconciliation that eventually changed the lives of the entire tribe.

This original musical will be staged at the University Cultural Centre from 27 - 29 July, 2007 with an additional Sunday matinee on 29 July 2007.

Tickets at $12, $10 and $8 will be available for booking via SISTIC from 1st May 2007.

Presented by Mt. Carmel B-P Church

No look but GREAT voice

2007-06-27T10:37:00.000+08:00

Physical and mental exercise

2007-06-23T01:16:00.000+08:00

I have not been jogging for a few weeks. Getting lazy...I used to be disciplined to set aside time to exercise at least 2-3 times a week. It requires more effort for me to exercise as compared to those days when exercising is habitual. Once we miss once, we will miss twice, thrice....then it becomes a habit that we do not exercise regularly. It is the same with our brain. Jay recently shared with me a method to improve concentration by doing mental calculation by multiplying 87 and 87. Try different combination of the numbers. Initially when I tried, I get tired and lazy of remembering the numbers. After several tries, it helps me to focus to think clearly. Hope this simple mental exercise helps you too ;p

Building a prevailing generation

2007-06-23T00:12:00.000+08:00

http://hopeadultscamp.blogspot.com/

Can we be the prevailing generation that thrives in tough circumstances, bears fruits and be fresh in our walk with the Lord?

Are we Word-centred?

What are our pathway to God? Relational, intellectual, serving, contemplative, activistic, creation or worship?

Do we see the value of learning?

Have we capture a vision greater than our career?

We "prevailed" in this church camp at Malacca. It was one of the better church camp I had attended. I had good time of fellowship with my caregroup and also others who joined us from family group. We tried the popular chicken rice ball but were quite disappointed. It did not taste like the first time I tried in Malacca several years ago. We had chendol, a popular dessert in Malacca.

After this camp, I am more convinced that God is real and powerful and He desires to work through every area of our lives that will bring Him honour. He desires everyone to have victorious lives that will lift His name up UP UP UP.....

Chicken rice ball and chendol are popular in Malacca

BuSy but GrEaT weekend

2007-06-12T20:49:00.000+08:00

I had a busy but great weekend. I attended a great concert and a good movie on the same day.

On Sunday after service, Jay and I went to Esplanade concert hall to watch a performance by the Toa Payoh Guitar Club together with Hung and his wife and another ex-colleague. Impressive 60-minute performance and it is FREE admission. There were group, family and solo pieces of performance. The chairman of this club did a solo and he can make drum, horse running...sound from the guitar. Amazing!!

After the performance, Peishan and I joined Taeko for "HULA GIRLS" at Picture House. A heart-warming Japanese movie based on true story. Worth watching but please prepare some tissues..hehe!!

Sacred Influence

2007-06-12T20:24:00.000+08:00

Jay and I just finished our Marriage Preparation Course (MPC) organized by our church. This course gave me good insight into what marriage is and the various seasons the couple would likely to go through at different stations of their lives together.

I bought this book, Sacred Influence, by Gary Thomas at Amara Hotel while shopping there. It is good book to understand how a woman can influence her husband from a man's perspective. Encourage all wives or wives-to-be to read this book to capture your men's heart in a godly manner.

Aquarama exhibition

2007-05-27T19:04:00.001+08:00

Jay and I visited the Aquarama exhibition at Suntec City. This exhibition is really for the fish enthusiasts! We saw many people snapping away with their camera especially at the competition area at the prized fish.

At one of the booths, I saw for the first time this snow white arowana (above). It is amazing to see the baby arowanas that just came out of the eggs. Check out these websites (1) (2) to understand how baby arowanas (or fries) are harvested.

We talked to a man shared with us how he invested in arowanas by buying and breeding arowanas in the farms in order to reap profits. But it will take about 3-4 years before he can see the fruit of his investment.

It is interesting to see the ecosytem of aquatic plants and the fish. Under certain lighting, the aquatic plants will be able to produce oxygen for the fish and the plants will take in the carbon dioxide produce by the fish. We are also living in an ecosystem where we interact with one another and the environment.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

2007-05-27T18:33:00.000+08:00

I just did a 12-hour course on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) at Confucius Institute, Nanyang Technological University. It is a good introductory course to TCM. I always like to drink herbal soup made by my mother. I signed up with the aim of learning how to have better quality of life and health through proper diet.

Thank God that this course is conducted in English but Professor Hong Hai, Dean of Business School of NTU. I would be lost if it is conducted in Mandarin with those abstract terms.

I learnt many things like TCM is not to replace western medicine but to complement each other. TCM helps to improve health during the recovery stage from illness and is good as a preventive medication. I also start to have new interest in Chinese culture and history.

Quote of the day

2007-04-22T20:13:00.000+08:00

“Thou shalt not be a victim. Thou shalt not be a perpetrator. Above all, thou shalt not be a bystander.”

~ Holocaust Museum, Washington, D.C.

Close of my travel chapter

2007-04-09T22:18:00.000+08:00

I would like to close this chapter on my Vietnam trip. Overall, it has been a great and invaluable trip. I saw many new and interesting things, met new friends, understand the history of Vietnam, saw the lives of the locals, shopping and great food....etc. The Vietnameses are very friendly and helpful.

Recommend all who have not been there to go. Go there with an open mind and you will be surprised by the many news things you see and experience, and the people you meet.

Check out Jay's blog from his perspective on our Vietnam trip.

Rice Paper Making

2007-04-09T22:03:00.000+08:00

In Vietnam, fresh spring rolls use rice paper wraps. Below is a video on how rice paper is made.

Saigon = Ho Chin Minh City

2007-04-08T22:38:00.000+08:00

The most memorable day I had at HCM was when I visited Cu Chi tunnel. It was dug by the Viet Minh and later expanded by Viet Cong. It was used a base for storage, refuge, sleeping quarters by the Viet Cong as an offensive against the American troops.

We completed the 90m crawl in the narrow and dark tunnel. It was quite an experience and we were all wet after the crawl.

"Same Same but Different" team

Offensive traps against the American troops

This American tank was destroyed by a landmine

Nha Trang - Islands hopping

2007-04-08T21:58:00.001+08:00

The 3 of us did not sleep well except for Jay. Something interesting happened on the coach. 3 persons slept on the floor of the coach. One on a hammock hooked to the side of the seats, while the rest just laid a cloth on the floor and sleep. We arrived at Nha Trang at 6+am.

We changed into our swimming gears at An Phu Travel group to prepare for a day of swimming and snorkling at the islands. We also visited an aquarium on one of the islands.

We check-in to a hotel to wash up and rest for a while. Jay, Danny and I got sun burnt as we did not apply sunblock on our back. It was painful ;-(

We had a good dinner at Mecca restaurant (rating: good). A lot of the Vietnamese restaurants have pretty dim light with neon lightings.

After dinner, we had a walk before returning to the hotel to prepare for our night train to Saigon.

It was indeed a tiring day and when I laid my head on the pillow on the train, I dozed off despite the noise from the moving train.

"My Son" - Beautiful Mountain

2007-04-08T21:20:00.000+08:00

The next day, we left for a day trip to My Son. It was an impressive site worth going.

My Son which means beautiful mountain, was built by Champa kingdom in the 4th-13th century, whose origin was from the Javanese in Indonesia. This site was the area of worship to their gods. It was fascinating to understand how the Champa people worship as the local tour guide explained. My Son was a smaller version of the Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

The Viet Cong used to use this area as their hideout but it was later bombed by the American army. A few temples were destroyed.

After My Son, we took a boat ride to an island where wood handicraft was made.

We went back to Trung Bac for Cao Lau again for lunch. My last meal in Hoi An.

Lanterns are sold in many shops here in Hoi An. Our tour guide bought us a lantern each.

After which we went back to our hotel to prepare for our 12-hour night bus ride to Nha Trang.

Hoi An

2007-04-07T22:37:00.000+08:00

We left from Hue in the morning for Hoi An, a small town at the central of Vietnam. It takes about 4 hours bus ride from Hue to Hoi An. After we checked in to the hotel, the hotel shuttle brought us to Pho Hoi Garden restaurant (rating: good) for lunch.

After lunch, we went to Cua Dai beach. It is beautiful beach and many tourist came her to swim and sunbath. Jay and Danny rent a pair of bermudas each to enjoy the dip in the clean sea water while Estella and I sat by the beach sipping our coconut juice under a shade. Every 5 minutes, the locals will approach the tourists to buy their fruits, products and even leg massage and pedicure service. After the guys had their share of fun in the water, we left.

The hotel shuttle dropped us near Hoi An's central market and the old quarter. There are a lot of cloth shops where customers can make their jackets, dresses..etc and collect them within a few hours or the following day. I enjoyed walking down the streets though it was rather warm. I bought a book called "The Girl in the Picture". It is about the life story of this girl whose picture was seen all around the world and helped turn public opinion against the Vietnam War.

We went to a silk embroidery shop, where we saw the process of how silkworms grow to become a cocoon then the silk is used to weave into fabric.

In this silk embroidery shop, we saw the handiwork of the locals. It was impressive. The embroidery work looks like still life from a distance unlike the many embroidery work we saw in Vietnam. These works do not come cheap. The prices range from USD200 - 500.

We tried Cao Lau, a local dish at Trung Bac restaurant (Rating: good). It was tasty. After our sumptous dinner, we walked to Phang Dinh Phung to wait for our hotel shuttle to bring us back to our hotel.

Blackout!! It happened when we were back in our hotel. Thank God, the power came on shortly. Do not be surprised when you experience black out in Vietnam!

Hue

2007-04-03T23:24:00.000+08:00

We reached Hue at about 8am and we checked in to Sports Hotel (Rating: Good). The weather was surprising hot as compared to Hanoi. It was even warmer than Singapore.

After check-in, we left for a day trip to visit the Imperial City, tombs, local art-works and etc.

Hue was the capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty and is one of the cultural cores of the country. Nguyen Dynasty ruled Vietnam between 1802 - 1945.

Outside view of Imperial City. It is built on the same principles as Beijing's Forbidden Palace.

It was a pity that certain parts of this city were destroyed during the Vietnam War when the Americans attempted to root out the Viet Cong soldiers at the Citadel.

We visited some emperors' tombs like Tu Duc's. It was interesting to hear the stories of the lives of these emperors.

[Left] I am about the same height as this Emperor.

Along the way, we stopped by some local craft shops. There was a little girl making incense.

A lady asked the tour guide,"Aren't she suppose to be in school now?"

Not all children have the privilege to have proper education like what we have in Singapore. We saw another boy at night seeking for income by polishing shoes for tourists. Even when we were in Cua Dai beach at Hoi An, many children earn a living by asking the tourists to buy fruits, snacks..etc. In Singapore, it is not legal for children to work at such a tender age.

Due to the warm weather, all of us were tired and sticky, we left the rest of the tour group and went back to the hotel to rest after lunch.

We went to the Perfume River in the evening after dinner. We boarded a boat to view the traditional cultural performance.

Halong Bay, Hanoi

2007-04-02T22:32:00.000+08:00

In the morning we departed from Hanoi to Halong Bay. We passed by Quang Ninh province where coal is mined thus making this area polluted. Healthcare and sanitation are not very well taken care of in Vietnam. It is normal to see people wearing masks in Vietnam to protect themselves against the pollutants in the air. Does these masks really help to filter the pollutants? Such scene reminded me of those SARS period where we were given "certified" mask to wear, which would filter harmful elements and are hard to breathe.

It took 3 hours to reach Halong Bay. Thank God for the good weather as the day before it rained. The weather was cool and refreshing while the scenery was spectacular.

Jay and I shared a table with a Vietnamese family when we had lunch on the boat. We had a good conversation with them. They have a cute little girl whom I enjoyed playing with.

It took us more than 4 hours to reach Hanoi from Halong Bay. The bus moved like a snail on the road and possibily caused a French couple to miss their night train. Felt so sorry for them.

We changed our hotel at Hanoi as we found difficult to sleep. The new hotel was slightly better but I found strange practice here in Vietnam. The hotel will close for business after certain hours like in our case, the doors were closed with the metal doors pulled down at about 1030pm.

We went to the recommended fish restaurant in Hanoi the next day. Though there is only one dish in the menu, many people patronized this popular eating place. We arrived at about 11+am and soon after the restaurant was full house.

After lunch, we visited the several art galleries at the city centre while on our way to the museums. The history and revolution museums were not very impressive. The presentation and layout were not user-friendly for visitors to grasp the history of Vietnam. Display items were all over the place.

We tried home-made ice-cream and rested by the lake for a while before we headed back to have dinner before our night train to Hue.

Day 1 - Singapore to Hanoi

2007-04-01T20:07:00.000+08:00

We went to the Budget Terminal to catch Tiger Airway to Hanoi. The Tiger Airway was delayed for 3 hours due to air-conditioning fault. Several passengers missed their connecting flight at Hanoi and were complaining and one man even asked to meet the manager. Nothing was done to pacify the fuming passengers. Personally I think Tiger Airways should give adequate explanation and compensaton for the delay. We only knew that the delay was due to air-conditioning fault when the pilot apologized for the delay as we board the plane. We departed from Singapore at 9pm and reached hanoi at 12pm (Hanoi time). Hanoi is one hour behind us. Our poor tour guide, Hanh, waited at Hanoi airport for about 6 hours as she was there at the airport at about 6pm.

We took at cab to Prince hotel (rating: poor) at the old quarters. After putting our lugguages, we went down the street to Hanh's office and met her sister. They run a tour agency together. We had our supper together along the street. Quite a shock for city dwellers like us. We saw tissues thrown all over the floor. We sat on stools and had our soup noodles.

After this we went back to our hotel for a rest.

What a day to start a holiday trip!!

Vietnam - 23 Mar 07 - 1 April 07

2007-04-01T19:31:00.000+08:00

Jay, Danny, Estella and I went for a 10-days Vietnam trip. We flew via Tiger Airway to Hanoi, then took a night train to Hue, bus to Hoi An, a night bus to Nha Trang, night train to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) and then back home to Singapore.

It was my first visit to Vietnam and it has been an eye-opener indeed. Thank God for His providence and guidance throughout the whole trip. I was also reminded of how blessed I am as a Singaporean.

I will detail my trips in the following posts. Please check it out.

Amos 3:3

2007-03-11T18:41:00.000+08:00

Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?

Qian Hu here I go...

2007-03-11T17:48:00.000+08:00

Yesterday was a "fishy" day. A few of us went the first company in the fishing industry to be listed on the stock exchange in Singapore. Heard a lot about Qian Hu but I never been there before. I saw some ornamental fish that I have never seen before.

Pelican-look alike fish

A deformed arowana that is not for sale.

Qian Hu breeds mainly arowanas. The prized fish that can cost up to thousands of dollars. Arowanas are divided into 2 basic categories: Gold and Red - with many different varieties. because they are so greatly in demand, the species are now classified endangered and protected. Only second generation arowanas can be traded.

Who hatches the eggs? The male or females?

Answer: The male arowanas scoop the fertilized eggs intot their mouth until the eggs hatch. They are such dedicated father that they will starve for 45 days until the eggs are hatched.

Hung made a comment about his trip to Qian Hu which I found very amusing. "When I look at the fish I wonder how it will taste like." Abraham, the fish lover, is so excited when he talked about fish and his fishing experience at the canals..etc. We have different passions in their lives that make us excited!!

After the trip, Jay, Hung and I went to NTU canteen for some authentic vietnanese food. Good food...looking forward to my Vietnam trip end of this month.

Guess what is this?

2007-02-19T14:05:00.000+08:00

Guess what is this?

Auckland, the city of Volcanoes

2007-02-19T13:01:00.000+08:00

Recently I went to Auckland for business trip and I stayed over the weekend to visit Hope Auckland and to roam the city. The caregroup that I visited made up of people from Nigeria, Ghana, Germany, China, Thailand, Taiwanese, Malaysia..etc. People with great faith in the Lord. I went to the Sunday service which was held in Auckland University and there after went for shopping to catch some stuff before I fly back to Singapore the next day.

Left: A landmark in Auckland University

New Zealand has about 4 million people, about the same number of people in Singapore. You see people everywhere in Singapore but not so in Auckland which has about 1 million people. I like the crisp air in Auckland.

Over the weekend, I was pondering whether to go to Devonport or the Auckland Museum. I chose the 'cooler' option, Auckland Museum which has air-con. It is Summer in Auckland and the weather is warm and the thought of walking at Devonport under the scorching sun was a no-no for me. I met an elderly couple on my way to Auckland Museum. Both of them are English and the primary reason why they were in Auckland was to attend their son's wedding in Auckland. We talked about the countries we live and briefly about Auckland. It was great to meet people on the road especially when I travelled alone in a foreign land.

Auckland museum was great. I enjoyed the many interesting exhibits like Maori, Polynesian, nature, world history, volcanic etc there. I learnt that Auckland is not just a city built on volcanoes, it is also a city built of volcanoes. I went into a room where it simulated how it would be like if the volcano erupted in Auckland. The room shoke, sofa that I sat on moved and the lights went off.

On my transit flight to Sydney, I met a German girl who was on her way back to Germany has travelled in New Zealand for 4 months. She was very young and she did it mainly on her own. I wondered whether I would travel alone for extended period of time. I felt occasional pang of loneliness when I travelled alone over the weekend.

I had a good chat with an Australian man on my returning flight to Singapore. We chatted about the on-demand movies on the Qantas airline, life, work etc. He was on his way to Paris for conference. When the plane landed in Singapore, I remembered his words as we bid each other farewell, "Live well". Indeed, life is a short journey. Live well.

The CROSS

2007-01-20T13:11:00.000+08:00

Where God did show His greatest love and hate? The CROSS.

Yesterday some of us went to St Andrew Cathedral to listen to Bill Crowder's message on the Transformation power of Jesus from the book of Philippians. It was a very good sermon. It sets my heart to think and reflect upon my life. Many times I downplay His greatness and love in my life. Like what Paul said in Philippians 3: 16: "Only let us live up to what we have already attained". We go through lives at different stages of progress and should be faithful to as much of God's truth as we understand.

Another thing that I am reminded again in the teaching is humility, submission and servanthood. Humility is the hallmark of Christianity. It's difficult to be one but through these we give glory to Him. Everytime we honour God and choose His way, Heaven rejoices and He is pleased.

One quote that I like that Bill mentioned in this movie, "The Chariots of Fire". Eric Liddell said: "I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure".

You can also download Bill Crowder's message on 18-19 Jan07, which will only be available on 25th Jan 07, at http://www.rbcasia.org.sg/sg-bc.htm

May His peace and love be with us always as we journey this lives together. Life is journey of discovery...continue to grow in our knowlege and understanding of His greatness and love.

The Greatest Gift of all

2006-12-23T11:23:00.000+08:00

I watched "The Nativity" last Sunday with my caregroup. It is a story about the obedience of Mary and Joseph to go through hardship to bring the birth of Jesus Christ to come to pass. I enjoyed the conversation between Mary and Joseph and even as the story unfolded I learn that God's timing is the best. As they passed through the check point where the soldiers were screening for potential boys who might be the prophesied King of the Jews, Jesus was carried in Mary's womb. They passed the checkpoint and entered Bethlehem. Who would have thought that the boy that King Herod was looking for was still in Mary's womb?

Why did God choose Mary and Joseph to do His will? Why not others? From what I understand, I believe God chose them because of their obedience and their will to see God's purpose come to pass through their lives.

How did astrologists in the past watched the stars that hang on the sky? In this movie, the three wise men were very amusing. It was out of the world to see the stars in the sky from a well of water in their 'study' room. They did not have the high technology like us to see the stars through telescope and also to travel in vast outer space.

Overall, it was an entertaining and touching movie.

Even as we celebrate Christmas, stop and ponder. Is it all about shopping, giving gifts, feasting, partying? There is nothing wrong with all these but have we missed the meaning of Christmas?

Even 25 Dec is not the actual birthday of Jesus, Christmas is a time to remember Christ's birth and the purpose that He came to earth to die for our unrighteousness. A baby born to die for all.

May your Christmas celebration be filled with new meaning this season. Remember that the Greatest gift of all is Jesus Christ.

Be a blessing..

2006-12-18T22:43:00.000+08:00

I bought 2 issues of Discipleship Journal magazines 2 weeks ago. These magazines are very informative and insight. In one of the issues, it talked about "The good news about money". After reading these articles on money related matters, I reviewed and reflected on how I should manage my money. I felt prompted in my heart to want to do more to bless those in need. One of the ways is to sponsor a child through World Vision through monthly contribution. This is one way I can bless a child who needs financial assistance in other parts of the world.

Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. - James 1: 27

God blessed me financially recently. I felt that God gave me for a reason. To bless others.

Lord, teach me to be a good steward of your resources.

Cocktail

2006-11-27T22:36:00.001+08:00

Recently, I have a crazy idea to want to explore and concoct my own cocktail....maybe one day I can open my own cocktail bar. hehe!!

25 Nov 06 - Ipoh : Water rafting and caving

2006-11-26T23:08:00.000+08:00

Thank God for the great weather and the new friends that we made on this trip, who had been a blessing to us.

[Left] - The starting point of the water rafting.

Jay and I had a free adventure trip to Ipoh. All thanks to a friend who gave us a free travel voucher. We made our night journey on board a night coach from Singapore to Ipoh. I never know that we can do water rafting in Ipoh. The last time I water rafted was more than 7 years ago in New Zealand. Looking forward to this trip to break away from busy life in Singapore, to get new zest of life ;-)

We met another 2 guys who were on the same trip as us. We went an early breakfast at 7am and most of the stores, opposite the hotel that we were waiting for the agent in Ipoh to pick us up to go to Sungai Kampar, the rafting site, were not opened. We had chee chong fun which mushroom sauce while our new friends had chee chong fun with curry chicken. Never know that there is chee chong fun with curry. That was new to me!!

It was thriling to raft on the rapids. We were soaked wet by the big splashes of cool water on us. I was pulled into the water by the guide when we were on calmer water. Some of us went into the water and let the currents drift us down the river for a distance. When we almost reaching our destination, we capsized our dingy on purpose. It was fun!

Our rafting guides

Jay and I decided to add on caving to our travel itinerary to continue our adventure with our new friends.

Our new friends.

I never seen lotus seeds on sale like this. It was interesting.

After lunch, we continued our caving adventure. Initially, I did not want to add this to our intineray because I thought the experience will same as the one I had in China just looking at the limestones. But here, we had to walk in the cool water, be on our fours at times to get through narrow path, slide down a steep slope, climbed down a hole....It was a whole new experience ;-)

After the whole day of activities, I was dead tired. Muscles aching and some bruises. Neverthless, I enjoyed the trip. We washed up at our new friends' hotel and then we went 'shopping' for food togeher. We had mutton soup noodles, beehoon goreng, satay, curry chicken bun. Great food and fellowship!!

We left Ipoh for Singapore. We took a night coach and I dozed off soon on board. I was too tired.

Thank God for everything.

An Inconvenient Truth

2006-11-24T10:00:00.000+08:00

2 weeks ago, I watched this documentary, An Inconvenient Truth, at GV Plaza Singapura. Al Gore, the former US Vice President, gave a presentation on how global warming, if we do not response to curb this problem, is going to affect us and our next generations. There is also a political connotation in this film.

It was interesting when he pointed out the Amercian General Motors and Ford are not as fuel efficient as the Japanese Toyota. When the ice melts at the Antartica, it will change the map of the world. A sad cartoon illustrates a Polar bear swimming the big blue sea with no place to land its feet. It will then die from drowning. What we do now affects our environment and our future. Use environment friendly products to save our earth.

After this film, we heard an applause from the audience. A film worth watching.

Guess who is this?

2006-11-20T20:58:00.000+08:00

Guess who was swimming in the sea?

It was my first time to Bintan. I was there with "Priscilla and party". In the resort that we stayed, everything can be transacted using Singapore dollar. Though we are in Indonesia, we are paying Singapore market rate for our food and accommodation. The resort must have earned lots of $$.

Jay, Ming Chong, Sarah and I went cycling but we could cycling out of the resort. Ming Chong and Sarah to go for go-carting. Jay and I continued to cycle to the kelong where we had our dinner the night before. Took this beautiful picture.

We discovered some gems at the seashore.

Thank God for the good weather when we were there and the good time of fellowship we had esp. with my caregroup. Saw the crazy side of Alvin and Jon when we played taboo. We went for karaoke but we were disappointed as the songs were really ancient and we needed to wait for a few minutes before the next song was ready for us to sing. I barely sang any song because it did not show up even in one hour.

Check out more interesting stuff we did on Tiger's blog and more.

Time Flies

2006-11-19T21:11:00.000+08:00

I have worked with my current company for more than 3 months and I grow to like what I am doing. Initially, I was very stressed because I was very new in the industry and the job scope is totally different from my previous jobs. I thank God His peace and grace upon my life that I can survive these 3 months. My manager left the company in less than 3 months and I was left hanging on to my new work and additional work from my manager. Also, I want to thank God for my General Manager and colleagues for their patience and guidance all these while.

I have been staying late for work and even go back to work during weekend since I started this job. I am tired physically but I thank God for the joy He brings to my life. He did something new in my heart. I remembered one of the Sundays, I prayed and asked God to fill me and give me joy and peace. I felt so happy for that whole week despite pressing dateline. Power of prayer!!

I told a friend that I have been working late and he told me that I need to find a more efficient and effective way for doing my work. Agree but work never seems to end. Living in a culture that "esteems" busyness, I need to learn to find the balance on how I spend my time with my family, friends and work. I need to priortize and plan my time well so that I will not miss out God's purpose in my life.

Many times we come to God with empty cups, He will never fail to fill our cups. Joy comes when His presence is near.

Another exciting thing...I will have the chance to travel in South East Asia and Oceania. PTL!!

Doulos in Singapore - 9 - 24 Nov 06

2006-10-19T23:29:00.000+08:00

I was there at Harbour Front on 16 Nov 06.

Doulos was purchased in 1977 by Gute Bücher für Alle e.V. (Good Books for All), a private, non-profit, charitable organisation registered in Germany.

Over 18 million visitors have been welcomed on board for tours, programmes and visits to the floating book fair. With stops in over 500 ports of call, this unique ship has visited more than 100 countries in including Africa, the Americas, Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East and many island nations.

Doulos is recognised in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's oldest active ocean-going passenger ship.

I was on board Doulos about 5 years ago. It was quite experience to be on a floating book fair. I bought some Christian books. Doulos will be in Singapore from 9-24 Nov 06 at Harbour Front. Check out the website for more details.

Mainly Christian publications on board Doulos

Free international Call

2006-10-05T00:25:00.000+08:00

You can make free international call by just registering as Jajah user in this website and talk to family and friends overseas. It is free to call zone 1 and zone 2.

I am a registered user. I tried calling a friend in Rome yesterday and it works.

Thank God for technology!!

9 Sep 06 MacRitchie Reservoir - Tree Top Walk

2006-09-20T22:27:00.000+08:00

We started our journey at the spot marked red and we walked one big round back to almost the same spot.

2 weeks ago, Anne, Patrick, Jay, Jon and I went to St Theresa Home to do our regular volunteer work. After that Alvin joined us for lunch and then we headed towards tree-top walk at MacRitchie Reservoir. Patrick left us for another appointment. We started at about 230pm and the sky was dark when we finished. It was indeed a long walk. It has been a long time since I walked such a long distance. If I ran, I think I can cover probably less than half the time we spent walking.

Though a long walk, I enjoyed the company and took several good pictures.

On our way back to the main reservoir, Jay and I were 'attacked' by a fierce monkey. Probably this monkey wanted to have food.

After a hard day of walking, we went to Hans' restaurant for dinner.

It has been a long time...

2006-09-17T23:01:00.000+08:00

It has been a long time since I last wrote on my blog. Since I started work, life has been quite intense. I am currently going through a sharp learning curve in my work. Yesterday is Hope Church Singapore's 15th anniversary. Work and choir practices took up a large portion of my time last week and I was glad that the celebration service ended. We had a great celebration at Singapore Expo. I was part of the 100-people choir. I enjoyed the moment on stage. To see all on the floor worshipping God brought great joy to my heart that all the hard work was worthwhile.

I was reminded of these verses from 2 Cor. 4:16-18 recently.

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

I thank God for what He has done in my life all these years. There are many more great years ahead ;-)

National Day Rally 2006

2006-08-21T22:13:00.000+08:00

PM Lee Hsien Long gave a national day rally speech yesterday. If you miss it, check it out.

Flowers and insects

2006-08-20T19:09:00.000+08:00

These are a few of the favourite photos that I took when I was at Science Park and Kent Ridge Park.

9 Aug 06 - National Day Fireworks and durians

2006-08-12T11:02:00.000+08:00

Grace invited us to her house for dinner and to watch the fireworks from the corridor just outside her house. Thank God for our friends who prepared the food. I like fruit salad that Anne made. Yummy!! Anne, please give us your secret receipe!!!

The firework was spectacular but too short.

After our dinner and watching the fireworks at Grace's house, we went to Geylang for durians. We ended the day with the KING of the FRUITS!! hehe.

Check out more photos at Anne's and Albert's blogs.

14 July 06 - Durian picking at Pulau Ubin

2006-08-09T11:15:00.000+08:00

I saw these photos from Ubin Volunteer yahoo group. I was amazed to see so many durians on a tree.

A group went to pick durians. I was not there. I learnt from my friends that durians usually fall to the ground at night so it is quite safe to pick durians during the day. Could not imagine the pain and impact if a durian fell on your head! Ouch!

Savouring the creamy and rich fruits ;-)

While the rest were searching for durians, the butterfly man was hard at work ! This rare butterfly, Discophora sondaica was sighted at the durian plantation. This is a new species record for Ubin !

Thanks to Gan CW who permits me to post his photos online.

Lewis was sleeping...but woke up by me

2006-08-09T09:34:00.000+08:00

I always like to see Lewis sleeps. He feels so at home..hehe. I have 3 rabbits at home now. One of them passed away when I was in Rome ;-(

Some photos of Mika, a Norwegian rabbit.

Helen the baby fox

2006-08-08T23:26:00.000+08:00

Trailer

I just watched "Helen the baby fox", a touching Japanese movie based on true story. Do check out the theatres in Singapore ;-)

Changes that heals - Dr. Henry Cloud

2006-08-05T10:23:00.000+08:00

This is a brief of what I gleaned from this book. It helps me to reflect upon my own life and to see myself, others and God in a different light.

Three ingredients of Growth

Grace and Truth
Time

The Lord accepts us fully, knowing that we will need time and experience to work out our imperfections. Our failures do not surprise him. If they surprise us, it is only because we have too high an opinion of ourselves. We have a standing in grace that gives us freedom to achieve truth over time.

The truth we need to achieve has many aspects. It includes the developmental needs of the real self, the grace of relationship, and the external truth of the precepts of God. And it takes time for all these to work."

Bonding to Others

What is bonding?
When we fail to bond
Learning to bond

Bonding is the ability to establish an emotional attachment to another person. It's the ability to relate to another on the deepest level. When two people have a bond with each other, they share their deepest thoughts, dreams, and feelings with each other with no fear that they will be rejected by the other person.

When we bond with others and God, we have a good basis for morality, an increased ability to handle stress and our accomplishments have meaning.

Separating from Others

What are boundaries?
How we develop boundaries
Crossing over boundaries
When we fail to develop boundaries
Learning to set boundaries

Sorting out Good and Bad

What is the problem?
When we fail to accept Good and Bad
Learning to accept Good and Bad

Deep down inside, we all realize the difference between our ideal self, the imagined perfection, and our real self, the one that truly is. If these two battle each other, we will be in contact conflict. What we wish were true and what really is true will war with one another.

The ideal self is the one we can imagine and want to be.

The real self is the one that we truly are, not the one we wish to be. The real self is not ideal, no matter how much we wish it were.

The inherent problem in the relationship between the ideal and real is that the ideal judges the real as unacceptable and brings down condemnation and wrath on the real. This sets up an adversarial relationship between the two, and like all adversaries, they move further and further apart.

Becoming an adult

What is adulthood?
When we fail to grow up
Learning to become mature adults

Work on your ability to attach to others so that you can have your empty heart filled. Work on setting boundaries so that you can own your life. Work on confessing and receiving forgiveness so that you can develop your real personhood. Work on assuming adulthood so you can be an authority. Then go out and give it to others. "The greatest of these is love" (1 Cor. 13:13).

Link to previous post

Prayer before starting work

2006-08-02T09:05:00.000+08:00

"Yes" and "Amen"

2006-08-01T10:53:00.000+08:00

For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ. And so through him the "Amen" is spoken by us to the glory of God. - 2 Cor 1:20

Amen!! The name of the Lord be praised!!

I am simply amazed by God's grace in my life. He answered specifically to what I asked of him end June this year with regards to my job search. I prayed and asked Him to open the right door for me. I asked Him to provide me a suitable job in July and preferably in International Trade.

I finished my 3-month contract end June and I started looking for a job early July. I thank God for all my friends, ex-colleagues and even MNCs whom I liaised with called me and helped me to look for jobs. I am grateful and thankful to all of them. Their acts have touched my life.

Do not be anxious about anything but in everything in prayer and petition to God and the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Indeed, I am not anxious throughout the month as I know He will provide and take care of me. During one of the Sunday services in church, I felt very strongly God's fatherly love for me.

The HR department of a European MNC called me on 31 July 06 to offer me the position that I applied for. The job will require me to handle trade related issues in a specific region. Wow!!

I thank God for His faithfulness in my life. Thanks to all my friends who helped and prayed for me too. Amen!!

Amazing 11-year-old singer

2006-08-01T09:15:00.000+08:00

An amazing 11-year-old girl with powerful voice that blew the crowd away.

28 July 06 - Labrador Park

2006-07-30T23:32:00.000+08:00

A BIG CATCH of the day!!

My best bowling score

2006-07-30T22:21:00.000+08:00

A few of us from the CG participated in an inter-district bowling competition which was held at Orchid Country Club on 22 July 2006. I broke my personal highest points (115) for bowling. So happy...hehe..of course, there is still much room for improvement.

Yihong and Anne

Mihai, Dee and Jay

Despite not making to the final, we enjoyed the game :-)

Check out Anne's post too.

New Dehli & Taj Mahal

2006-07-26T14:02:00.000+08:00

Vicky, a long time friend of mine, just went to New Dehli and Taj Mahal, the seven wonders of the world. Enjoy the photos here.

Note down your phone Imei

2006-07-25T12:36:00.000+08:00

Every mobile phone has a 15-digit number that is unique to it, and allows a phone to be tracked even after its SIM card is changed. A mobile phone will show this number when *#06# is keyed in.

Please note down your International Mobile Equipment Identity (Imei) number.

Source: The Straits Times, 25 Jul 06

Woah!!! Ps Jeff Chong's blog

2006-07-18T14:47:00.000+08:00

Woah!! Ps Jeff has his own personal blog. Enjoy!!

Changes that Heal - Dr Henry Cloud

2006-07-18T10:16:00.000+08:00

I am now reading this good book.

Dr Henry Cloud, a renowned clinical psychologist, combines his expertise, well-developed faith, and keen understanding of human nature in a program of healing and growth.

I will share what I've learnt in my later post.

Jay's water baptism

2006-07-17T15:02:00.000+08:00

The weather has been unpredictable lately. It can rain at one moment and sunny at another moment. Thank God that after a brief shower, the sky was clear and blue again.

Praise the Lord that 84 decisions were made to be water baptised yesterday. I was very happy that Jay made his decision to be water baptised.

Jay invited his parents to witness his water baptism. After much prayer and persuasion, they decided to come. PTL!! As they are Teo Chew speaking, we needed someone with good Teo Chew to explain to them why we sing Praise and Worship, the signifiance of water baptism...etc. Thank God for Yihong and Jon for translating and relating to them in their heart language. His parents enjoyed the youthful company..hehe..Jay's father even mentioned that our presence made him feel younger ;p If our parents know God, how good it is to be able to worship God together in church ;-)

I hope we will have a new 'candidate' from our CG going for the next water baptism ;-)

Italy - FIFA World Cup Championship

2006-07-14T21:42:00.000+08:00

It was my first time watching FIFA World Cup. I am not an avid football fan. I prefer swimming and basketball to football. Maybe because I stayed in Rome, Italy for about 6 months, I have certain affinity towards this country.

I crawled out of bed at 3am to watch the semi-final game between Italy and Germany. Italy entered the final by winning 2-0 against Germany. I was excited.

I saw on the front page of New Paper that the feng shui masters predicted that France will be the champion. Even feng shui wants to have a hand in the world cup. If the prediction of the feng shui masters is wrong, does it mean that all that they profess about feng shui is wrong?

I watched the final game between Italy and France at 2am in the morning. It was an exciting game and I never felt so watching a football game in my life before. Personally I think Italy deserved to win because the team was definitely stronger than France.

I enjoyed watching the joy and thrill in the eyes of the players when they scored a goal. It was exhilarating. I think in our lives when we score the goals of our life, the joy and excitement are unspeakable.

The fengshui masters' prediction was wrong. Italy won the FIFA World Cup Championship.

Result : The Five Love Languages

2006-06-27T22:51:00.000+08:00

The Five Love Languages

My primary love language is probably
Quality Time
with a secondary love language being
Physical Touch.

Complete set of results

Quality Time:		10
Physical Touch:		8
Acts of Service:		6
Words of Affirmation:		4
Receiving Gifts:		2

Information

Unhappiness in relationships, according to Dr. Gary Chapman, is often due to the fact that we speak different love languages. Sometimes we don't understand our partner's requirements, or even our own. We all have a "love tank" that needs to be filled in order for us to express love to others, but there are different means by which our tank can be filled, and there are different ways that we can express love to others.

Take the quiz

You never did let go

2006-06-27T22:34:00.000+08:00

As children bring their broken toys with tears for us to mend,
I brought my broken dreams to God,
because He was my friend.
But then, instead of leaving Him in peace to work alone,
I hung round and tried to help,
with ways that were my own.
At last I snatched them back and cried, How could you be so slow?
My child, He said, what could I do?
You never did let go.

Today my colleague gave me this poem. A touching poem which reminded me to trust God. To learn to let go and let God. To trust that He loves me and He will give me the best.

An angry mother and crying daughter

2006-06-27T22:22:00.000+08:00

Yesterday morning when I was at the bus-stop waiting for bus to go to the interchange, I saw a mother with two children. One of her children was crying and the mother was scolding her daughter. I was shocked when the mother started pushing her daughter to the ground several times and ignored her. How could a mother do that to her child? Even if her daughter was kicking a fuss over some matter, the mother should not treat her daughter like that. Her little brother was standing a distance away frowning. He might be wondering what had happened.

What would the child be like when she grow up?

Parenting. It is tough.

Good parenting skill can be learnt. We can learn from the Bible and also parents who raise good children.

When you are a child u speak like a child...

2006-06-27T21:26:00.000+08:00

When you are a child, you speak like a child. When you are an adult, you speak like an adult. When you are old and helpless, you speak like a child.

A few of us went to St Theresa's Home on 24 June 06 (Saturday) to befriend and to help the old folks there. We hope to offer our time to help at least once a month.

St Theresa's Home is a voluntary welfare organization that is committed to providing a holistic nursing programme for the disadvantaged, destitute and the aged sick in our community. This home has been in Singapore for about 70 years, having been established by the Little Sisters of the Poor back in 1953. The Little Sisters of the Poor cared for the aged poor with love and respect regardless of race or religion.

We were briefed before we start the orientation. Andrew (not his real name..forgotten actually), the person-in-charge, shared with us the history of the home and how to speak and handle the old folks in the home. Do not ask them questions like "Why are you here?", "How long have you been here?"..etc as most of them did not come to this home at their own accord.

The girls followed Estella, my good friend who is a social worker working in this home, to visit the female residents. The guys followed Andrew to the befriend the male residents.

Estella introduced us to many of the female residents. I talked to them in English, Mandarin and also broken Teo chew. I was impressed by one lady who has both her legs amputated. She has artificial legs attached instead. When we first saw her on that day, she was holding on to the railing exercising. She was very positive when we talked to her. She even sang us a Christian song, "Jesus loves me". She was so joyful despite her physical limitation.

We met another lady, who was blind in one eye. She greeted us and asked us whether our family and relatives know Christ personally in their lives. She said that all should come to know God and even offered to pray for our family's salvation.

I was awed by what God has done in these ladies' lives. As I reflect upon my own life, I realize that I need to find strength in Him in many things that I do. I can do all things through Christ who strengthen me - Phil 4:13.

It was a fruitful trip. I enjoyed talking to the old folks though I had some difficulties communicating to some in chinese dialects. I believe our presence and help brought some joy to the old folks' lives ;-)

Simplicity

2006-06-20T13:44:00.000+08:00

Recently, I watched a animation movie called “Cars”. This movie is about a race car called Lighting McQueen’s life in the fast lane and how his unexpected detour to a sleepy town and the few characters that he met who helped him realize that there are more important things in life than trophies, fame and sponsorship. Life is more than just thriving to win in the rat race.

Father’s day was 2 days ago. My family had dinner together at Soup restaurant. We had our favourite Samsui chicken. While eating, I saw a little girl beside our table playing with her chopsticks. She held one chopstick in her hand and imagined herself playing violin. Children are so creative. They can use whatever in their hands and transform them into their play things.

Kawan go Melaka

2006-06-13T20:28:00.000+08:00

It has been a long time since I last blogged. Just a brief update to all on what has been happening in my life.

I just came back from Malacca for our "Kawan go Melaka" adult getaway over the weekend. Kawan means friend in Malay. It was a good getaway indeed from the busy lifestyle in Singapore. I had an opportunity to spend extended time with brothers and sisters in Christ from Hope Singapore and also to dedicate time to spend with Him. During this camp, God reminded me of who He is in my life.

We played captain ball at the beach with the unit. A good game.

I enjoyed playing pictionary with my CG. I saw the crazy side of them. It was delightful to see the laughter and joy on their faces. I thank God for all friends that He has placed in my life.

The newlywed, David and Andrea, are now in Bali for their honeymoon after the getaway.

I just realised that I am quite slow in responsing to issues, be it good or bad, emotionally. I appear cool and unaffected when I hear good or bad news. Only after several hours later then I will start to feel happy or sad. So my friends, if you think that I am cool or 'cold-blooded', you are very wrong. It's just that your friend here is slow..hehe.

Before the tiger was the cub

2006-05-25T22:57:00.000+08:00

Do you know that before we have Tiger beer a Cub existed?

Roving Light Travel Photography

2006-05-13T11:33:00.000+08:00

Jay shared this travel website called Roving Light Travel Photography that has many beautiful photos taken in many countries. There is also another website that offers travel tips and forum.

Enjoy!

Hope Thai Camp

2006-05-08T22:56:00.000+08:00

Many camps lately. Joey from Hope Hong Kong shared with me her photos taken during Hope Thai camp. Enjoy!

Hope Singapore will have our Adult Getaway at Malacca in June ;-)