My Blog, My Thoughts, My Reflections

感想

2009-04-09T23:59:00.006+08:00

今天是 Uncle Henry 的 funeral。我还是很不相信他已经不在了。心里还是很伤心难过，应为他走的太突然了。我心里有个遗憾，就是在新年的时候,从房里听到他的声音，却没下楼跟他拜年。这是应为 Uncle Henry 这一两年都是很早来我家和 Grandma 拜年。通常都是自己来，应为朋友会到他家打麻将。今年，我有听Mom 说他有 complain 他的脚痛。Haizz ... 想起来觉得很没有礼貌。

今天，Raymond 和 Ricky 分享了他们对父亲的感言。非常感动。我心里在想，如果 .... 如果 ... 是我，
我会说什么呢。我真的不知道。

Raymond 说这段日子，有三个奇迹。

(一)就是他父亲遇到了他母亲，所以才会他们三兄妹
(二)他和弟弟 Edwin 小时候是在 St. Paul's Kindergarden 上学的。Raymond 就是从哪儿开始认识了耶稣。当时父亲还没接受主。奇妙的是父亲在 2006 年在 St. Paul's Church 接受了主，过后就在St. Paul's 教会崇拜。
(三)就是 Uncle Henry 的姐姐，妹妹和他的 reconciliation just before he passed on。 A prayer of reconciliation was prayed just before he passed on.

真的是非常奇妙。

Raymond 也读了孙子想对爷爷说的话。我听了眼泪不知不觉都流了下来。Coffin 里面也放了好多孙子的drawings.

今天 Auntie Tina问我为什么 Ricky 会穿SAF的军服出席父亲的 funeral。原来是给爸爸一个salute，感谢他。

回家的途中，Mom 说她觉得很 surprised Auntie Wah 会这么坚强。我对 Mom 说，这是应为她和家人都信主的原因。主赐给她力量，平安和勇气。Auntie Wah 也知道 Uncle Henry 上了天当.他们一家人还是会相遇.

As for me, i've still got to pray and work very hard on my whole family. Doesn't help that time passes by so fast. But one thing for sure, i'm perservering.

Saying Goodbye Is The Hardest Thing

2009-04-06T01:54:00.002+08:00

Goodbye Uncle Henry.

I guess i am probably still in shock after i heard that Uncle Henry passed away this afternoon. That probably explains why i am really tired and a little unwell but just can't go to bed.

It was just earler this week when i heard that Uncle Henry had a high fever and wasn't feeling very well. He went to see our long time family doctor and was asked to be admitted to the hospital right away. Well, some of us were still guessing that it's probably due to dengue or he couldn't take the cold weather in Taiwan. Mom has been calling his wife, Auntie Wah for updates fathfully every night after dinner. All mom could say was bad, bad, bad. I wonder how bad is bad until yesterday afternoon when i was driving mom to grandma's place, mom told me that it was bone cancer / leukemia. I was still telling mom that there is nothing much we can do but to pray for him.

Yes, that explains why i am in a big shock now. I think mom and dad are quite affected by it. I can understand why.

愛是不保留

2009-03-25T01:30:00.001+08:00

Luv this fabulous cantonese christian song that is often used in weddings.

常聽說世界愛沒長久，哪裡會有愛無盡頭？
塵俗的愛只在乎曾擁有，一刻燦爛便要走！

而我卻確信愛是恆久，碰到了你已無別求：
無從解釋、不可說明的愛，千秋過後仍長存不朽！

誰人受痛苦被懸掛在木頭？至高的愛盡見於刺穿的手；
看！血在流反映愛沒保留，持續不死的愛到萬世不休！
惟求奉上生命全歸主所有，要將一切盡獻於我主的手；
我已決定今生再沒所求，惟望得主稱讚已足夠！

[ Unreserved Love ]
I've always been told love won't endure.
Nowhere can one find love long and true.
The world just thinks love comes and passes through.
"Don't make promise" is the rule...

But I still believe love can last long.
Your unfailing love has made me strong.
You are the one I can depend upon.
Come what may, you'll love me all along!

Who died on the cross and took away my curse?
Great is your love, I don't think I should deserve.
Your bleeding hands proved your love unreserved.
You're my only joy and treasure on the earth...

Giving everything to you is all I pray.
Use my life to serve you truly every day.
I'll hold your hands and give you all my praise.
Let the whole world know your love and grace!

Obama On Talk Show

2009-03-25T00:03:00.002+08:00

Another interesting clip which i just viewed a couple of days back was the one by US President Obama who appeared on Jay Leno's talk show.

SIGNS

2009-03-23T23:08:00.004+08:00

I love this clip. It's very well done. It's a simple short film on communication. It's created by Publicis Mojo and RadicalMedia. This is an innovative and refreshing campaign created in New Zealand for Schweppes Europe and has now achieved a worldwide following on the internet.

Directed by Patrick Hughes, Signs is an 11-minute romantic comedy about an unhappy office worker looking for love. He eventually realises that the signs were there all along, in the neighbouring office.Told with very little dialogue, the film appeals to an international audience and has now become a viral success, achieving almost one million views on YouTube alone.

Enjoy!

The T-Mobile Dance

2009-02-24T22:30:00.004+08:00

This is just so cool!

T Mobile full advert made in Liverpool Street Station.

Satchi & Statchi created “Dance”, a spot for T-Mobile UK where 350 dancers spontaneously took over Liverpool Street Station in London to the joy and glee of all involved. The interesting part is that the spot, filmed entirely with hidden cameras, was shot on January 15th and aired on the 17th, giving it a bit of vitality and life in the spirit of the spot itself.

Embracing 2009

2009-01-22T00:11:00.003+08:00

I have not been writing for a month. Not that i didn't want to but well, either there were too much to write or i didn't know how to start.

Whatever it is, 2008 has gone and it has PASSED. Perhaps, i am glad that 2009 is here for a brand new year brings new hopes, beginnings and a start to a chapter. What can i say but i hope i will be able to embrace the new year with much courage and confidence to work on the things which i did not achieve last year. Wish me good luck. Hee :)

Ain't No Mountain High

2008-12-02T22:38:00.018+08:00

SWET stands for Singapore's Women Everest Team.

I had the opportunity to get to know the gals recently because my company is the title sponsor.There's Jane, Esther, Joanne, Lihui, Peh Gee and Yi Hui. They are all in their 20s or 30s and are attempting the summit (Mt. Everest) in march. If they succeed, they will earn themselves a Guiness Book of Records entry.

These gals are truly inspiring and motivate me alot. Their passion, excitement and dedication for the sport is remarkable. It's alot of hardwork to reach where they are right now. The amount of training and exercising is beyond me. For a start, they climb stairs daily and whenever they can instead of taking the lift or escalator. Sounds easy ... but it's not. And weekend means serious training. Hmm .. i wonder if they ever get some rest. But then, it's Mount Everest and not Bukit Timah Hill though. Ha:)

Thinking back, i ought to thank them for motivating me, and helping me to achieve my first personal breakthrough this year. I really don't know how i managed to do it but i did complete my 40km of cycling. The amazing thing is that i have not cycled since i was a little girl and i was telling my friend that i may have already forgotton how to cycle. But then, there's just so much truth in the statement. Once you know how to cycle, you'll never forget it. It's a skill. And trust me, this is so true.

As i was cycling and enjoying the cool breeze of the east and scenery of the coast, i thought of the gals. At that point, i was thinking to myself .. well, if they can climb the everest and train hard for it, what is this mere 40km. I guess that kept me going and it wasn't that tough after all.

And let me see ... maybe they will do me some good too. I hate trekking because i can't handle the sun. And i hate steps which is a real hindrance to climbing. But maybe after knowing them, mountain-climbing could be my next new found interest. Never say never. But till now, it's nowhere near my radar. Ha ha!

Media Conference @ A Unique Venue - Campus Corner.

It's interesting to read about their past expeditions. Not easy. I'll never be able to do it.

That's me .. the first well-wisher to sign on the board.

My new colleague, Rina and me with Mr All Wrapped Up aka Mr Mountain Climber. Check out his attire.

We'll behind the SWET Team. All the best!

If Tommorrow Never Comes

2008-12-01T16:24:00.018+08:00

It was a saturday morning.

I flipped through TODAY papers and had the greatest shock of my life. Totally stunned. The headlines stated that the Singaporean hostage has been killed.

I was in total disbelief and took me awhile to sink in the fact that hope was gone and reality is here. And yes, i have never really felt the nearness of danger and the closeness, reality and threat of terrorism until now.

I guess being a Singaporean, i have been too complacent about safety. Afterall, most things & situations always turn out well and fine. Perhaps that also explains why i always look at the positive side of things. It was something which my faith has taught and moulded me too. But this time, it has hit me hard and showed me that life is really unpredictable.

Even when i was in Vientiane in 2004/2005 working on ASEAN projects which involves the ASEAN leaders, there were rumours of bombs. Indeed, there were several bombs that went off, but away from where all the actions took place. At that time, i wasn't afraid because somehow, i knew i would be safe. I was with my colleagues and local counterparts and we were mainly at the Don Chan Palace hotel or the Lao Exhibition Centre. But now, even hotels seems to be so unsafe. But really, nobody would have thought that terrorism would have striked in this manner.

After this incident, my views have changed. It has really reminded me to always keep our guard, to be vigilant, especially when we are overseas, be it for holiday or work.

But hey, the circumstances in which Hwei Yen lost her life is too unbelivable, too unimaginable, too inhumane. There are many very unfortuante ones who shared similar fate as hers. What wrong have they done? What wrong have she done? Sadly, it was the case of being at the wrong place, at the wrong time. What more can i say but it's really not our timing, God's timing.

Even though i do not know Hwei Yen personally, she felt like a friend to me, someone whom i could relate to. She had led a vibrant life, marked by many similar things which many of us could relate to.

Her love for musicals, good food, wine, shopping, travelling. These are the things that i like & enjoy too. She has many people that loves her, friends, colleagues, family, neighbours and a bright young life to enjoy. There were so many things to look forward to.

And just like her and many others, i travel overseas to work too. A brief stay is not supposed to turn into a fatal one. We always know that we are coming home and there's family and friends waiting for us, and maybe even deadlines at work to meet, emails to clear, errands to run or functions to attend. There were things to look forward to.

But this incident has waken me up. I could be in her shoes. Anyone of us could have because we all travel. Now, i really treasure my family and friends more. Never live a life of regrets. Enjoy everyday of your life coz. you never know if tommorrow comes. Like what my senior director always tell us .. If there's good food, enjoy it. If you can go for holidays, just go and relax. And yes, always spend meaningful time with your loved ones too. Life is just too unpredictable.

Media Ministry Gathering

2008-12-01T15:05:00.008+08:00

The media ministry gathered on sat afternoon for a great time over lunch and board games at the MiND's CAFE.

Look who's having fun.

Back To School

2008-11-20T15:58:00.003+08:00

I attended a seminar yesterday morning at Ngee Ann Poly. It felt great to be back on school-ground. Suddenly, i miss my student days very much. I wish i could get back to studies but well, realistically .. i need a banker and a sponsor for that.

Had lunch with my colleagues at the school canteen and the prices were so affordable. Around us were all the poly students, mainly in groups and just having a good time with their friends and peers over lunch. Yeah .. even at poly, i bump into someone from church. Can't remember her name but two years back, we were singing in the same choir group for some church events. Ha ha .. she must have wondered why i am at poly.

Anyway, the canteen food is pretty reasonable and yes, it's definedly somewhere you can go if you want something cheap and decent. Where else can u find 40 cents tea and coffee and 60 cents desert. Yeah .. the more reason why i miss school, and school day prices too.

Grandma Turns 90

2008-11-20T15:44:00.003+08:00

Just received the photos from KY, my cousin-in-law.

Celebrated Po Po's 90th birthday abt 1 - 1.5mths back at Uncle Roy's place. As usual, it's always difficult to get everyone present. This time, 3 person were missing. Shen was outstation to Italy, Wu Quang studying for her O-levels at home and my uncle is working. But still, it was a pretty good turn-out.

And yes, grandma has two birthday cakes. Heard that it was due to some mis-communication. But still, the cakes were yummy. And yes, at 90yrs .. grandma is still strong and healthy as ever. Her favourite activity ... hee hee ... majong. I call her the 'MAJONG QUEEN'.

SKY ERP

2008-11-18T20:57:00.002+08:00

I've seen the one at the flats, the light-house, the roads ... and now up in the SKY!

Sexy Jazzy Bossa Nova

2008-11-12T00:17:00.004+08:00

This cd is one of my latest puchase and i love it alot. Check it out. I love the sexy jazzy bossa nova style. It's really relaxing and sets the mood rite.

BACK TO LOVE in BOSSA MOMENTS
New Interpretation of Latest Hits & Classic Love Songs

Back To Love | In Bossa Moments Track Lists:
01. Bleeding Love Bossa Nova - Rachelle Spring
02. You’re Beautiful - Marcela Mangabeira
03. Back To Black - Monique Kessous
04. Your Song - Marcelo Rezende
05. Don’t Stop The Music - Marcela Mangabeira
06. Bizarre Love Triangles - Marcelo Rezende
07. You Raise Me Up - Cris Delanno
08. I Should Be So Lucky - Tahta Menezes
09. Lovin’ You - Marcela Mangabeira
10. Fly Me To The Moon (In Other Words) - Bob Tostes
11. Let’s Stay Together - Liz Menezes
12. Just The Way You Are - Marcela Mangabeira
13. As Time Goes By - Cecilia Dale
14. I Say A Little Prayer For You - Taryn Szpilman
15. Over The Rainbow - Pery Ribeiro
16. The Look Of Love - Patty Ascher

My Reservoir In The City

2008-11-09T22:26:00.013+08:00

When i first heard about the Marina Barrage, i was at the Marina Bay Sands office to attend a presentation. The marketing personnel had pointed out to me on the barrage, which is just a short distance away from the Marina Bay Sands project.

I finally had the opportunity to do a site recee with my colleague there on friday. We had lunch there at a little cafe which coincidently just opened for business that day. Lunch was good and i love the mee siam that we ordered. Portion is good, price is reasonable and surprisingly delicious. For fans of the famous 7th Storey Steamboat at Bugis, the restaurant will open for business at the barrage from 3 Dec. The ambience will be lovely but i reckon it may be inconvenient for people who do not drive as the place is not near the train station. Thus, you'll need to car-pool.

THE BARRAGE

The Marina Barrage has taken over twenty years of planning and hard work. Built at the mouth of Marina Channel, it will create Singapore’s 15th reservior and one with the largest catchment. Together with two other upcoming reserviors in Punggol and Serangoon, it will boost our water catchment zones from half to two-thirds of Singapore’s land area.

TAKING IT THROUGH THE ROOF

With a large rooftop garden the size of four football fields, the grass and soil double up as a form of natural insulation for the building, protecting it from the sun and preventing it from heating up as much as it would with a concrete roof. But the real star on the rooftop is the breath-taking view of the city skyline and the water beyond.

BRIDGING THE DIVIDE

Two of the key features of the barrage are its nine crest gates and seven drainage pumps. These systems kick into control the water levels in the reservior and help to prevent flooding in low-lying city areas during heavy rainfall. At low tide, the 30m long crest gates open to release water from the reservior out to the sea to prevent flooding, while the drainage pumps, which can empty an olympic sized pool of water in about one minute, do all the work when heavy rain coincides with high tide.

GALLERIES GALORE

While you are there, do check out the gallery on the second floor. Made up of six differently themed galleries that can be viewed in under an hour, each exhibit focuses on a different aspect of Singapore’s efforts to create a sustainable society.

I had fun there and i hope you will when you get the chance to visit the new spot in town. It's educational for both adults and children too.

Yvonne & Baby Damien

2008-11-09T22:02:00.001+08:00

Auntie Yvonne & Auntie Wendy went to visit Baby Damien on saturday afternoon. Damien is already 15months and he can walk steadily. He was not able to do so when we visited him during his one year old birthday.

And yes, he looks more and more like his father (Alan). Almost photo-copy.

The SuperStar Excellent Award

2008-11-09T10:03:00.002+08:00

I was in bed one morning when i heard mom talking to my neighbour, "Have you seen today papers? Your husband, Dr Phua is being featured in The Straits Times and he won an award." Apparently, my neighbour was not aware and have not seen the article.

My family have been neighbours with the Phuas for close to 3 decades. Mom and Mrs Phua are really good friends. They do their neighbourly chat almost every morning over the fence. And if we do mention about the possibility of moving to a new place, my parents will always be quick to add that we may never get back the same kind of neighbours like the Phuas, and the Ongs.

I remember once when Mom had a fish bone stuck in her throat some years back, i went to the Phuas for help. Dr Phua had tried to help mom find the stucked fish bone but with no luck. At that time, Dad was out and we didn't have the car with us. Dr Phua gladly offered to drive us to the General Hospital where mom went to do an x-tray and got the stucked bone out.

And just two weeks back, we called our neighbour to check if they have some malaysia currency at home that we could borrow. Just a couple of dollars, enough for us to pay the taxes at the immigration counters since there isn't a money changer near home. My neighbour is so nice. She came over twice to pass us the money. The second time after finding more loose change at home.

Ever since we were neighbours, the Dr Phua that we know have always been very soft-spoken and patient. It's his character. Mom used to joke with Mrs Phua on how he could manage his patients, nurses, doctors and students. I've seen his interviews being aired on TV too. He's really soft-spoken and good natured which also explains why people who work with him likes him alot.

Thus, i am not surprised that he's won this year's SuperStar Award in the health sector. It's a great achivement for him. Truly a testimony for his dedication and passion in the health sector and certainly an inspiration to many around him.

Congratulations Dr Phua. My family is proud that you have won this year's SuperStar Award.

Below is the article which appeared in The Straits Times/ Life Section on friday.

Passionate About Children by Karen Teng

"BARNEY the purple dinosaur, Bob the Builder and Thomas the tank engine"- Professor Phua Kong Boo confidently gives these examples of children's TV programmes on how he breaks the ice with his young patients.

The senior consultant and clinical professor at the KK Women's and Children's Hospital's department of paediatrics says,"I need to learn the kids lingo and know enough to communicate with them. It helps me to relate to them better."

Such soft skills were not part of his medical curriculum when he joined the profession 43 years ago. Prof Phua says:"Many years ago, there as no special training on how to deal with patients. We were trained to treat and prevent diseases. We were taught to look after our patients to the best of our abaility. I have learnt from experiences in life and in treating patients."

It helped that he and his wife have two children and two grand children who ensure that Prof Phua stays updated on the world of kids'entertainment.

Working wwith children has been Prof Phua's passion for more than half his life."I love children and cannot bear to see them suffer. I feel very happy and satisfied when they become well, active and playful again," he says.

His effors are not limited to prescribing treatment or medicine. Kids from poor families also get special attention. Prof Phua explains:"On one occassion, i helped one with the transport fee. On at least two occassions, i have given families money to tide over the financial difficulty when awaiting assistance from the medical social service."

He has no qualms in working extra hours for the child's benefit."I remember a patient's mother was deeply distraught as the father was blaming her for their child's illness. I stayed back to wait for the father to come to the hospital after his work. Fortunatedly, i was able to convince him. When the child recovered, both parents came together to thank me." he says.

The key to dealing with challenging cases, Prof Phua says, is to communcate effectively."I try to imagine what happens if i am in the shoes of these difficult and demanding parents. Their expectations may be very high and not achievable. However, it is important to listen to them, keep calm and explain what can be done, what is to be carried out, what is the likely course of the disease and what are the likely outcomes."

His bedside manners do have a calming effect on parents, says Prof Phua."When there are difficult parents, the younger doctors would approach me to help to explain the çhild's condition. I suppose when parents look at my white hair, they know that i am a senior doctor and are more receptive to me."

He believes that if parents are kept in the loop, they are better able to accept any bad news."Many years ago, i had a patient aged about four or five. He died of pneumonia. But his parents never blamed me. They knew that we've tried our best and even thanked us."

It is little wonder then that Prof Phua is regarded as a father figure or sorts amongst his patients. In fact, two of them - a male and a female in their adult years - grew so attached to him as their paediatrician that they are still under his care presently.

Prof Phua, who specialises in disorders affecting the stomach and intestines, says:"I know their cases inside out as i have treated them since they were very young for conditions that need to be managed on a long term basis. They are more comfortable with me and do not wish to be transferred to the care of a doctor for adults unless there is no other choice."

Over the years, the soft spoken paediatrician has garnered a string of awards for delivering good service. His latest accolade this year's Superstar award for the health-care sector.

At 67, Prof Phua still clocks 12 hours a days and jokes that he spends more time in the hospital than at home. He is kept busy with visiting wards, attending outpaients, conducting research and teaching junior doctors. As the second most senior doctor in the department, his workload is not expected to ease anytime soon.

He says:"It can be tiring but i will stay and help as long as i'm needed."

Cheryl Q's Birthday

2008-10-31T16:10:00.004+08:00

Celebrated Cheryl's birthday last week.

Had a great time and it was really great to catch up with all my 'family members'.

Note: Photo courtesy of Penny

Phonecall

2008-10-30T22:19:00.007+08:00

I was working in the office yesterday afternoon when i received a call from a friend. She called to inform me that someone dear to the both of us was going for an eye operation in 45 mins time. Apparently, the condition seems to have worsen after the first operation barely just one month ago. At the back of my mind, i knew the seriousness of the situation and that the worst scenario is blindness.

As i was talking on the phone, my eyes were focused on the time on my computer screen. Time didn't stand still. Minutes have passed. There is nothing much we could do except to pray and hope for the very best. Somehow, i hate this questioning & bagarning thing with God. Questions of why .. why .. and why.

With just 45 minutes to go before the operation, all we could do is to encourage him through bible verses. Yes, i know my friend needed just that. If the text message doesn't get to him, it'll reach his wife for sure.

Isiah 41:13

"For i am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; i will help you."

At about 8.30pm, a message came in to say that things went well and operation ended earlier than expected. Thanks for the prayers. Phew! What a Relieve!

Trust In The Lord With All Your Heart

2008-10-27T00:16:00.003+08:00

Prov 3:5 - 6
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight."

This verse just comes on just so timely. Especially at a time when i am seeking God earnestly for answers in specific areas, times where i just feel so helpless. For the unknown that i worry about, this seems to be the answer.

Flight Delay

2008-10-14T22:14:00.003+08:00

Currently blogging from T2.

When it comes to travelling, one of the things which i dread most is actually flight delay. Yes .. my flight has been delayed. Flight was suppose to take off at 8.55pm. And now, it's been changed to 00.40am. My goodness ... and i have a presentation at 9am in the morning. By the time i check into the hotel, it'll be probably 3.30am or 4am in the morning.

I am in Lala land already .....zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!

---------------------------------------------------------------

Great! It's 1am in the morning and flight is further delayed to 3.15am. This is real BAD! Sigh!

Ah Po Turns 90

2008-10-14T01:22:00.007+08:00

Two weeks back, my family celebrated Ah Po's (Grandma's) birthday. She turns 90. Incredible! She is still as strong as ever and i believe the weekly majong session helps in a way or two.

Mom's mom has had a hard life when she was young. I have heard of the many stories from mom and from the various aunties. Stories of the many sacrifices which grandma went through. Stories of the unhappy marrigage between my late grandfather and her as they were match-made. Stories of how she had to take care of all the kids by herself as grandpa is a seaman and is hardly at home. There were many tales and stories .. but all these experiences and struggles in her life have made her strong in character and her perseverance in life is simply remarkable.

Sad to say, i hardly spend time knowing my po po as i am closer to my grandma from dad's side. I suppose part of the reason is because mom seldom bring us back to her side of the family much when i was young.

One thing which touches me this year is the birthday wish that Ah Po made. It was all for her grandchildren.

So one thing which i am telling myself to do is to make more effort in knowing her and spending time with her. The least i want is to regret when things are too late.

Wishing Po Po good health and happeiness always.

A Sparkling Journey To Korea (Part 3)

2008-10-04T17:45:00.041+08:00

Seoul is just an hour away from Jeju. But the 'FEEL' is really different between the two places. Jeju gave me a very relaxed feel. I enjoyed the quietness, scenic view and coastal breeze. I felt that i was on holiday. But back in Seoul, it was as if i was transported back to reality. Hill rise buildings, traffic jams and lots of people.

As time is short, Ginger brought us straight to lunch after we arrived in Seoul followed by some sight-seeing. I was taught how to make kimchi @ The Kim Chi School. It was really enjoyable and interesting. The teacher told us that it is a tradition in Korea that housewives prepares a large amount of winter kimchi sometime between late November and early decemeber. My tour guide also told me that in Korea, all the girls must know how to make kimchi.

Anyway, here's the prove. My graduation piece. Ha Ha!

And yes, i loved the 'NANTA' Performance which i went to watch. It's really entertaining. In NANTA, knives and other kitchen utensils are transformed into musical instruments in the hands of the performance.

Some other places of interest which i went to visit are:

The N. Seoul Tower

It offers visitors a scenic view of the city. The nite view is pretty. My group stayed up there for about half-an hour. My tour guide told the guys in my group to check out the male toilet (one level below the main observatory deck). The guys in her previous tour groups have told her that there is something interesting and unique about it. Thanks to a colleague, he took a video clip and some photos to show it to us (minus all the censored part of course). Hmm .. now we know what Ginger is talking about.

Another very interesting thing is actually at the base of the tower. Surrounding the deck at the base of the tower is a fence full of pad locks.The pad locks was a new tradition among the new generation. When a new couple is about to marry, they connect two padlocks to the fence to represent their lives together forever. Jokingly, my colleagues said ... if they quarrel or divorce, they better remember to come here to unlock the padlock. Hmm .. but what happens if you loose the key. Ha ha

The Blue House

Cheong Wa Dae (translation: The House of the Blue Roof Tiles or the Blue House, Office of the President of the Republic of Korea) is the executive office and official residence of the South Korean head of state, the President of the Republic of Korea. At present, Cheong Wa Dae consists of the main office building, the official Presidential residence, Yeongbin-gwan (영빈관, 迎賓館) or the guest house, the Chunchugwan (춘추관, 春秋館) press hall, and the secretariat buildings.

360 degree view of surrounding & Jeff. Photography and art direction by Nic. Creative Shot? I wonder what the guys are trying to do.

Changdeokgung Palace

I love the beauty of traditional landscape architecture of the place. It was built in 1405 during the early Joseon Dynasty as the main residence of the royal family.
The palace retains remarkable asymmetric beauty in terms of layout and it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997. It is also the main set for period dramas.

Cute little korean kids in hanbok. Afew of my colleagues couldn't resists and took some pictures of these kids. Yes, they actually ran after them. Nic was so excited and immediatedly volunteered to use my camera to take photos of these kids.

Pictures of the palace

Transition scene where small Dajangeum turns to Dakangeum in the drama

The Korean House

One of the best meals I have ever tried in Korea. It is a traditional Korean-style house where people can experience Korean culture through traditional food, performance, experience wedding ceremony and cultural goods. Had lunch with my counterparts here. The food is so yummy. But well, the meal is not cheap. But i can't imagine myself doing the washing up. It's just one meal and they actually used so many bowls and plates.

Korean Folk Village

I am surprised to see so many small kids here. But i would say that it's a really interesting place and yes, educational for the kids. There are more than 260 traditional houses from the different regions here and the living culture of the late Joseon Dynasty are revived right here at the Korea Folk Village. For entertainment, you get to see acrobatics on a tightrope, seesawing act and of course, the famous farmer’s music and dance.

Dance and entertainment Performance

The filming location where Daejangeum was asking people to investigate about village epidemic.

Itaewon

It’s lined with shops, jazz bars, nightclubs and restaurants. Hard Rock Café is here.

Before you know it, holiday is over. On the flight back to Singapore, I was listening to a sermon which talks about faith and trust. Rite after, i looked out of the window and saw a shining star directly above the moon. At that very moment, it seems to me that God is really reassuring me to have complete trust and faith in him. It was just so amazing.

The beautiful sky

And yes, hope to go back to Korea soon. This time, i will visit the other parts of Korea. In the meantime, i'll need to brush up on my Korean and learn afew more words.

A Sparkling Journey To Korea (Part 2)

2008-10-04T01:44:00.028+08:00

There are lots to do and see in Jeju. As some would call it, it's a treasure island. I would love to come back to visit the other places of interest here some other time.

Other places which i visited are the Cheonjeyeon Waterfall. The name literally means 'The pond of the Gods'. However, i'm kind of dissappointed with what i saw. Not sure if it's because i was expecting more. There are suppose to be 2 waterfalls there but well, one is not really functioning. Only the second one was.

The famous Teddy Bear Museum is just a short walk away from the Cheonjeyeon Waterfall area. We just need to cross over the bridge. The teddy bear museum is where some of the scenes from the drama, Goong (Princess Hours) was filmed. The scenery at the bridge is superb and i love seeing the sky.

The Teddy Bear Museum is the world's largest museum that is wholly dedicated to teddy bears. The museum has on exhibit a wide collection of teddy bears from all over the world and is a great place to take pictures.

There are 1,300 captivating displays of Teddy Bear over a 100 year tradition. Teddy bears from well-known master pieces of art work. And of course, not forgetting the most expensive bear (Louis Vuitton Bear : Most successful charity-auction bear).

This bear raised more money than any other bear has even done at a charity auction (US$193,000). The proceeds from that auction in Monaco went to abused children around the world. And yes, my favourite piece of art - THE KISS is here too. Check it out.

Some of the bears on displays are:
Armstrong takes the first step on the moon (1969)
The tragedy of Titanic (1912)
Teddy Bear Collection (Fashion Show)
Teddy the Great (Ghandi)
Jeju Folk Village

I also visted the beautiful Mt. Songak which is a 104m mountain with gentle fields. The first thing which we saw when we were there is the big Daejanggeum billboard. This states that the show has been filmed here before. Ginger, our tour guide pointed to us the Jeju Jingjigul Cave. In episode 54, Jang-geum finds a woman in labor inside the cave. She performs an operation that saves both the woman and her child. Jinjigul Cave is actually man-made. The view here is magnificent.

And yes, i love the scenery of this red lighthouse. It was a scene where the drama BAD LOVE (by Kwon Sang Woo) was filmed here.

And of course, there's Dokaebi Road 'Mysterious Road' where cars roll uphill even when the engine is off. This is not unique to Jeju alone but the Koreans have done a great job marketing this Mysterious Road into a tourist spot.

Note: Stories and blog on Seoul coming up in Part 3!

A Sparkling Journey To Korea (Part 1)

2008-10-03T17:23:00.024+08:00

안녕하세요 (An-Nyeong Ha-Se-Yo)

It was the trip which i have been looking forward to for the longest time. KOREA!

Took a overnight flight to Seoul last friday. It was a full flight and coincidentally, Aileen Tan (the Singapore actress) was also on the same flight. She was leading a tour group. The nite flight was bad in my opinion because it was really stuffy and i couldn't really sleep. But i guess the food which they served compensated for that. I love the bibimbap. Really delicious considering that airline food is always not too tasty.

Reached Seoul @ 6am in the morning. We had afew hours to spend in Seoul before taking the domestic flight to Jeju in the afternoon. We were met by our local tour guide called Ginger. She's one of the prettiest tour guide i ever met and is eloquent in mandarin and english.

Our first stop was to visit the top rated TV drama 'Daejanggeum' filming site. We were there really early and everyone was really excited. The weather was nice and cool. The village set for the drama series is an open set built at Yangjoo city Gyunggido, inside the MBC cultural valley.

At the DaeJangGeum Filing Site, i relived the memories of the drama series. All my colleagues and me watched the drama. So you can imagine the excitement in us.

Do you remmember these?

Doorway into the Palace
The doorway into the palace is used for those scenes moving in and out of the royal palace.

SuRaGan
This was the royal kitchen mainly used to make the food for the king.

Refrigeration Room
This was the set created as the place where all pastes, and other ingredients were kept in jars for the palace kitchen.

There were also some filming going on and it was a real treat for us to see what the professional does. Suddenly, none of us felt tired or sleepy anymore.

This was the first sight-seeing place which i saw in Seoul. Next stop is to Korea's largest island southwest of the Korean Peninsula - Jeju Island. I have friends who have been there and they have been telling me how beautiful the place is. Yes, now that i have experienced it for myself, it is really true. While the place is known as a honeymoon venue, it's really relaxing and fun when you are there with good company.

Jeju is filled with an abundance of natural attractions and it’s a delightful blend of cultures, natural wonders, and attractions. It has also become an even more popular destination since it has been the scenic set for several Korean TV dramas and movies. Yes - we were on the look out for it and i'm happy to see some of the sites which 'have been used for filming some of my fav Korean dramas.

The first visit is to the Yongduam Rock, an unsual lava formation that lies on the west coast of the city, like a dragon flying from the sea. This basalt dragon's head with its mouth opened, is one of Jeju's fantastic coastal sceneries.

You will see a large basalt rock that resembles the head of a dragon. Legend has it that the dragon was sent to Halla Mountain to gather a herb of eternal youth, but he was struck with the arrow of the enraged Mountain God. This turned him into the rock with his head looking up towards heaven and his body submerged into the water.

Next was to visit the Jusangjeoliddae, situated on the Jungmun coastline. The view is really picturesque and it is no wonder that this seashore has been proudly designated as National Nature Reserve No. 443. From where i am, i could see the Jungmun Resort Complex. The Jungmun Resort was the largest cluster of lavish hotels and golf courses and it has become famous for movies, dramas and TV commercials. Situated next to the Jungmun beach, the star attraction is the world class International Convention Center Jeju that became the dramatic landscape for the 2002 TV drama ‘All In’.

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I love this picture which i took. 'Boat Out @ Sea'. Looking at the sea is so refreshing and peaceful.

Second day in Jeju was spend at the Seongeup Folk Village, a popular place for foreigners to experience the unqiue Korean native culture.

A short visit to the Jeju Haenueo Museum was educational too. It gave me a better insight into the background of the island's aging women divers, or Haenyo which is one of Jeju’s most celebrated phenomena. Reaching depts. of up to 20m for 2 minutes at a time without the use of any breathing apparatus, they harvest abalone, octopus, and other seafood.

Jeju is popular for its seafood, largely because it is a coastal/ seaside place. I tried the seafood steamboat which unfortunatedly, is the lousiest meal that i have eatten in Korea. The soup base was really bland and i thought the kimchi was tastier. Not a satisfying meal but well, at least it was a proper meal.

God's Protection

2008-10-03T02:32:00.006+08:00

If there is something which i want to thank God for, it had to be this.

Sometime last week on a wet and rainy day, i had a really bad encounter on the roads. I was almost involved in an accident on the expressway. Didn't help much when the traffic conditions was really bad, it was raining and i was alone (on the way to work). Trust me .. i wasn't even driving at a fast speed. Even if i wanted to, i couldn't because there was kind of a jam. But i want to admit that i was quite tired that morning.

Throughout my years of driving, this has been the worst experience. It seems as if my nitemare was turning into a reality. Yes, it was bad .. because suddenly, the brakes didn't seems to work and i almost hit into the car infront of me. It was such a harrowing experience and my heart almost stopped for a split second. All i could do within those seconds was to pray.

Suddenly, i just felt the presence of the Lord. It seems that there is a transparent pair of hands placed on the car at the very moment at the front of the passenger seat. I knew at that very moment that it was God's protection. The brakes suddenly worked just in time and the car managed to stop at that very moment. Any later by a sec, i would be in real trouble.l It was just so amazing. At that very moment, the car right in front of me moved off quicky, as if nothing has happened at all.

What can i say but 'THANK U' Lord!

Bintan Retreat

2008-09-21T21:06:00.006+08:00

Just came back from Bintan. This is the sixth time i'm there but i'm still loving it. It's a good weekend get-away and like all 'holidays', i wish it was longer. This trip was with the cg. We were there for cg retreat and i think everyone had a great time, especially with the jet-ski. But of course, like what Steven said Retreats are meant for you to meet God, meet friends, and meet yourself. Very true indeed!

This trip, bumped into Daniel because his company was having a retreat there over the weekend. My cousins Darren, Alice and Victor were at Bintan with their friends too. Yes, Singapore is just so small. Lost of people get-away whenever they could.

After all the fun, it's back to work tomorrow.

It's Over?

2008-09-17T22:37:00.004+08:00

Just last week, i was planning for a short holiday with afew friends. We were all so excited that we were going somewhere. Accommodations were free and air tickets were really cheap. It would have been a good break for everyone after a year of hard work.

After everything has been settled, an sms came from one friend that her company is in a terrible state and filling for bankruptcy. One - Two days later, yes .. her company made it to the headlines.

Next came the news on the insurance sector. They were one of my major sponsors.

Sigh ... such is the vulnerability of life. You can't presume that everything is well at all times. Like what my friend wrote ... well, it's over ... haiz. I wish i know the perfect thing to say to her that will encourage her. But seriously, anyone who is in her position will feel lousy too. But well, what can i say but look at the bright side of things. It's not the end of the world and yes, life goes on despite the good and bad.

A colleague always tells us this ... enjoy everyday coz. u never know if tommorrow comes. While it may sound abit negative, but there's so much truth in it.

Journed Called Reality

2008-09-09T21:43:00.003+08:00

I see the sadness in her eyes, the tears, the cries deep within
She longs so much to help
But yet she can't
I wish i could
But i can't too
Problems, Problems, Problems
The sorrows, the tears, the dissapointments, the cries
The realities of life
Sickness, Quarrels, No Money, No jobs, Face Value, Expectations, Death, Bankruptcy, Court Case, Sumons, Debts, Last wishes,
Is there an end?
It's just so scary even by the thoughts of it
Lord ... just speak to me ... refresh my heart ... hold my hands on this journey called REALITY

I just read from a friend's email today and it says ..
Don't tell God how big your storm is
Tell the storm how big your God is

Journey

2008-09-01T22:44:00.006+08:00

A song that i like. JOURNEY by Corrine May.

It's a beautiful metaphor for our faith journey, the uphill, winding road.

It's a long, long journey
Till I know where I'm supposed to be
It's a long, long journey
and I don't know if I can believe
When shadows fall and block my eyes
I am lost and know that I must hide
It's a long, long journey
Till I find my way home to you

Many days I've spent
Drifting on through empty shores
Wondering what's my purpose
Wondering how to make me strong
I know I will falter I know I will cry
I know you'll be standing by my side
It's a long, long journey
And I need to be close to you

Sometimes it seems no one understands
I don't even know why
I do the things I do
When pride builds me up till I can't see my soul

Will you break down these walls and pull me through?

'Cause it's a long, long journey
Till I feel that I am worth the price
You paid for me on calvary
Beneath those stormy skies
When Satan mocks and friends turn to foes
It feels like everything is out to make me lose control
It's a long, long journey
Till I find my way home to you

Well, the journey may be long, tiring at times. There are too much uncertainty in life, too stressful at times. There are things which i don't understand. I feel that many times, i seem to be running away from things which i have no confidence. I may feel down, discouraged, dissappointed, upset and afraid. The ship which i am in may seem to be in a storm. But as i was praying and crying out to the Lord, i actually saw that the sea was smooth. A clear indication and reminder that GOD is indeed in control.

A River Adventure

2008-08-27T00:27:00.006+08:00

Last week, i got to experience what it was like to be a tourist in Singapore. Went on a FAM trip on board the new Hippo River Cruise Ride (the same company behind the famous Ducktours and DHL Balloon) which cruises along the Singapore River. The half-an-hour cruise ride departs at clarke quay. It was a pretty nice experience to explore the sights and attractions of what i see almost every day, but from a different perspective.

Enjoyed the evening cruise as the weather was terrific. I stopped and pondered .. yah... actually our Singapore City Skyline is quite beautiful.

When we passed by Fullerton Hotel, the guide was quick to point out to us that there were country flags being placed at the hotel. This means that some head of states or 'big-shots' are staying at the hotel. To think of it, yeah ... this is pretty much protocol or i call it, common sense. But yes, i learnt something new!

Some snapshots taken via my mobile.

A Spectacular Evening

2008-08-25T23:26:00.011+08:00

It doesn't seem too long ago when i last watched the fireworks display at the Marina WaterFront Viewing Gallery . Twelve months on, i was once again invited to the event which has always been one of the highlights of the National Day celebrations.

Despite the drizzle, majority of the crowd still turned up for the event.

Following are some of the fireworks display. Photos courtesy of my cousin, Darren.

"French Romance/ Korean Fantasia"

Enjoy the pix!

And i love these pictures too.

Ole Ole Ole

2008-08-20T23:27:00.004+08:00

Sunday was my nephew, Terry's One Month Old celebration. He's so cute and lovable.

But the adults who have all gathered at my auntie's place had more on the agenda. My family was out in full force to cheer for our Singapore Table-Tennis Team. It was simply nerve-freaking and we all screamed and cheered like there was never tomorrow whenever Singapore scored a point. But of course, the China team had proven themselves that they were the better team. Whatever it is, well done Team Singapore! You have done Singapore proud.

It was a really FUN time together.

A Baby World

2008-07-30T00:19:00.004+08:00

My latest family member ... introducing my 1 week old nephew, Baby Terry, son of my cousin Patrick & Huishan. Terry's a pre-mature baby weighing just 2.4kg. He was suppose to be born a week after National Day. He may be small and tiny now but i am sure he's going to put on weight fast.

Last week saw the arrival of Baby Bence, son of Benny & Peggy too. And of course prior to that, there's Baby Isabel, daughter of Soo Guan & Karen. Congrats to all the newly promoted parents.

禱告

2008-07-28T23:32:00.007+08:00

I first heard this song about 1.5 years back when a friend emailed it to me. Ever since, i always felt more encouraged whenever i listen to it especially at times when i feel down or discouraged. It never failed to perk me up.

On sunday, i thought it was beautifully sang by Tianlong, Lihong and Megan. The song came in really timely. So much so that i am so glad i wasn't seating with my friends as tears just simply streamed down like a runnng tap. The lyrics simply hit the nail of my heart. It has been a really tough time at work. Every single thing seems to be happening at the same time at lighting speed. The intense pressure, stress, the frustration. It was simply over-bearing.

But the consolation is that life will be back to normal from monday onwards when my exhibition ends. Just need to hang on for afew more days.

禱告，因為我渺小；
禱告，因為我知道我需要明暸，你心意對我重要。
禱告，已假裝不了；
禱告，因為你的愛我需要；
你關懷，我走過的你都明白。

有些事我只想要對你說，因你比任何人都愛我；
痛苦從眼中流下，我知道你為我擦。
在早晨我也要來對你說，主耶穌今天我為你活；
所需要的力量你天天賜給我，你恩典夠我用。

2008-07-15T23:09:00.002+08:00

Sigh! Still clearing work at this hour. Gee ... what can i say but i'm overloaded with stuff. And most of it are all urgent.

I miss the weekends already and looking forward to it.

The Southern Ridges

2008-07-14T00:16:00.030+08:00

I've been wanting to check out the Southern Ridges for awhile. Didn't get the chance till last week. It's a whole 9-km walk if you cover the distance point to point but well, for a start, i covered half the distance. From Mount Faber Park, through Telok Blangah Hill Park and ended at Hort Park.

Starting from Harbourfront, you walk a distance of 800m (approx 15mins walk) up to Mount Faber and they call it the Marang Trail. This trail extends from Marang Road, just behind the Harbourfront MRT Station to the cable car station at the Jewel Box on Mount Faber.

When you reach the top, you are rewarded with panoramic views of the southern part of Singapore, the Southern islands and of course, Sentosa.

One for the memory.

They call it the Faber Trail when you are at Mount Faber.

"Pirated" version of the Elfie Tower at Mt Faber

Nice View

We spotted a monkey up on the tree.

Where are we? Checking out the location!

The 3 Musketiers @ The Henderson Bridge

This curvilinear structure is located 36m above Henderson Road and bridges Mount Faber Park and Telok Blangah Hill Park at a horizontal distance of 274m and vertical elevation of 20m (about 6-storey residential building). The design intent is to give the surface of the bridge a natural form and make use of natural material. I love the design of the bridge. Beautiful!

Penny, Ying Ching & Me Posing For A Shot. We had fun!

More views

Somehow, i like this shot of my own shadow. It's cool! At least to me. Ha ha!

Hilltop Walk runs through the 34-hectare Telok Blangah Hill Park. The trail connects on one end with the Henderson Waves and the other with the Forest Walk leading to Alexandra Arch. I can't believe we actually climbed up the Telok Balangah Hill as well. While the rest of us were more interested in taking a rest, Penny was busy taking photos as the park offers a stunning 360-degree view of Singapore. Ha ha!

Our first REST-point. Weather was cool and the breeze was there. Perfect Saturday Morning.

Moving on, you will come to the bridge across Alexandra Road and the elevated walkway to Telok Blangah Hill Park. The connection comprises a 1.6 km meandering elevated walkway leading from Telok Blangah Hill Park to an 80-metre long bridge across Alexandra Road. The design for the elevated walkway and bridge is inspired by nature, and attempts to stitch the man-made structure into the natural landscapes.

The bridge has a curved deck and a tilted arch, which looks like an opened leaf across Alexandra Road. Ramps and staircases on each side bring the visitors up to the overhead pedestrian bridge from both sides of the road. On the Hyderabad Road side, the bridge is connected to the Horticulture Park via a Floral Walk

The Paparazzi Shots by Penny

Next Stop: HortPark

Located at the base of the bridge at Alexandra Arch, the Floral Walk offers a delightful stroll along a path lined with flowering plants. This is Southeast Asia’s first one-stop centre for gardening-related recreational, educational, research and retail activities in a park setting. Some park highlights include attractive themed gardens as well as outdoor display plots showcasing designs and ideas for home gardening. The 23-hectare HortPark connects to Kent Ridge Park via the Canopy Walk.

Now we are starting to feel tired. It's quit therapuetuc to just sit around and do nothing at times.

And look what we found? These are cute. Feel like i am in Alice In The Wonderland.

Our last group photo of the day before going for a nice lunch.

It has been fun. And of course, great company too. Till then, adios! We'll arrange for one evening walk one of these days.

Note: Photos by Penny Poon
(Sigh .. couldn't take my own pictures as my camera was send for repair. Thanks my friend)

Loving It

2008-07-01T23:40:00.003+08:00

Love the beautiful view of Changi Airport control tower. The photo was taken sometime last week during the recent fam trip to CROWN PLAZA CHANGI AIRPORT, the latest hotel in town.

The rooms are really nice and i love the fact that the corridor to the hotel rooms are not air-conditioned. It has a resort feel and personally, a nice treat to breath some fresh air especially if you have just arrived in Singapore after a long flight.

MJ's Painting

2008-06-29T10:15:00.003+08:00

I love these 2 beautiful pictures.
And i am deeply encouraged & inspired by the hard work & perserverence behind this.
Looks like a simple painting rite?
It is actually painted by my friend who is disabled and the artwork is done by using his mouth to hold the brushes.

This week during CG, we were talking about endurance. This is an example of what endurance is to me this week. Never give up my friends! And persevere on even when the going is tough.

Scenery & Baby Joash

2008-06-23T00:41:00.012+08:00

It's been 3 weeks since my workplace shifted to Lower Delta Road. It's a new place and i'm slowly getting used to the new area. Besides the convenience and food that i missed, the other thing that i actually miss is the scenery. No more beautiful city skyline to admire. The scenery has been my 'source of escapade for my mind' whenever it's overloaded with thoughts. Or perhaps u can call it mind-theraphy or stress reliever.

This is the view that i get out of the window of my workplace now. Simply BORING!

It's like east compared to west from what i used to get while at the old workplace.

But one pretty interesting thing which i discovered recently is that there is a railway track just behind my building. I can actually see the train to Malaysia passing by my window in the morning. However, i have only caught it 3 times.

This afternoon, attended a church meeting at Hill Street Centre on the 30th Floor. Wow! I love the scenery. This was what i used to see everyday out of my office window.

Had fun while waiting for the session to start. Look who's here with us.

Joash with Auntie Irene

Joash with Uncle Ronald

Joash with Auntie Marsli

Re!Turn To The Groove

2008-06-23T00:14:00.005+08:00

I visited a new boutique hotel in Singapore last week. I believe most people have not heard about it before. Revamped and 60s retro themed with iconic pop culture, Hotel Re! offers a new spin to living in the past. The hotel is situated on top of Pearl’s Hill. If you are taking the CTE towards the Ang Mo Kio/ Woodlands direction, you can see the hotel clearly on the opposite side of Clemenceau/ Merchant Road exit.

You Are

2008-06-19T01:24:00.003+08:00

A meaningful christian song that i like.

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-15T08:04:00.004+08:00

My family has never quite subscribed to the practice of celebrating special days such as "Mother's Day" or "Father's Day" or even Christmas gatherings till recent years. But like any other families, we often mark these special occasions by having either a meal out or at home.

I used to tell myself that every day is mother's day or father's day. There is no need to celebrate it on just one day. But afew days back, while on the way to work, one of the DJs from Class 95FM said that we are busy everyday and that is why there is a need to set aside this one special day. True as well!

As for gifts, i have no ideal why but as far as i could remember, i always end up buying shirts or t-shirts for dad especially when i am overseas for work or holidays. And it usually took me quite some time to pick the shirt. No loud prints, no big logos etc. And i know he's often very happy because he'll receive good comments from his friends about his new shirt and he'll proudly say that his daughter bought it for him.

This year, we'll be having a BIG feast-out at my place together with my extended family because it also happens to be grandpa's death anniversary. So once again, we are not really having a 'Father's Day' dinner. It's just one of the usual makan session. But really at this stage where i am, i know a precious grandchild will sure beat a shirt. At least, that's what i reckon. Hopefully soon Dad. I'll look forward to the day when my baby brings a smile on his face or when my baby reaches out to him with both arms. Indeed, these are the 'precious gifts' which money cannot buy.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY dad!

The Prank Call

2008-06-10T21:02:00.009+08:00

Afew nites ago, i was told that mom received some prank calls shortly after my bro and me left home for work. Apparently, someone had called mom's mobile twice at about 9.10am in the morning and told her that 'her son' was being beaten up. And apparently, 'her son' was crying for help in the background.

Naturally, mom was so scared and worried because she said the person kept saying 'Mom, come and help me. I am your son'. And it doesn't help when mom said the voice resembles my bro. Mom kept asking who the person was and the person kept saying i am your son. And after that, the phone call was cut off.

After the call, my mom called dad immediatedly. My dad reckon that it's a prank call and reasuured mom later when he called my bro to verify and ensured that all is well.

I told mom that she should have at least verfied with the caller and asked them questions before telling them off. Now, we are unable to track because there is no number displayed on the phone.

Whatever it is, prank calls are NO JOKE and do think of the consequences as it could land you in jail or fine. And yes, it is NOT FUN or FUNNY at all.

Friday Nite Party

2008-05-31T12:45:00.015+08:00

It has been a really long time since i partied hard. Had an enjoyable time last friday @ Fly Entertainment 19th Anniversary Party. Forgot to take the cam with me as i left it in J's car. But well, here's some pictures taken off the e-newsletter and website.

It was an Olympics theme party and i represented my company to receive the 'Syncronised Swimming' award (whatever that means). Dídn't know abt it till i was at the event.

Look who's coming in in-style .. Irene carrying the "Olympic Touch".

Fashion show styled by Daniel Boey

Li-Lin goes swimming. It was a sports themed event and yes, she just wore a towel and a swimming cap. Quite creative. Who needs fancy sports gear here.

Mag N Me

Cindy, Colleagues & Me

Finale after the lucky draw.

After the event ended, i headed down to a friend' pub. Have been invited afew times but somehow, just did not get the chance to visit. I guess my colleagues and me just needed to unwind ourselves as we were busy shifting office in the earlier part of the day. It turned out to be a really enjoyable & 'happening' PARTY. Turns out that alot of industry people that i know were there that nite. Each having their own mini-celebration and get-together.

It's great to really hang out once in awhile, and relax after working hard for the whole week. Have not done this for the longest time. But really, for every party ... it's the company that really matters most. Till then, it's back to work, work and work. Ha ha!

Sunset Beyond The Horizons

2008-05-26T19:29:00.004+08:00

One of the rare times where i got home early and managed to enjoy the sunset from the window of my room.

Every night
The horizon lights up
Swirls of pink and orange
Fading to blue and purple

Few bother to look anymore
At a blessing
That only comes once a day

Each sunset is different
No two exactly alike
Difference flows throughout
While it is the only similarity

Over the ocean
Or through the sky scrapers
Out on the prairie
Or in an apartment

You can still see a piece
A piece of something
Something never to return
A sunset

For the colors are shimmering
For a moment they stay
Only to disappear into change
Change just as beautiful as the last

This is why
No matter where you go
One thing remains the same,
A difference in sunsets

In your very own sunset

A short and simple story on about family peity.

2008-05-16T23:18:00.006+08:00

This reminds me of my two grandmas. Last sunday was Mother's Day. I asked mom last friday,"Hey Mom, so what are u going to do for your mother on Mother's Day?
For me, it has never been quite a tradition to celebrate Mother's Day. First of all, mom's birthday falls on 1 May. So all the celebrations took place on this day. I threw a surprise BBQ birthday party for her on her birthday plus a nice gift. She was really touched when all her sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews etc turned up, including her own mom. And secondly, everyday can and should be Mother's Day. But well, to make her happy on Mother's Day, i gave her a little present with her name on it. Nothing expensive but it's the thoughts that counts.

Anyway, Mom kept quiet for awhile before telling me this: "Hmm .. maybe we should bring your grandma out for dinner. And dad later added. We should bring the two grandmas out since they will be playing majong together at a relatives place in the afternoon.

It was later when mom tried to make arrangements with the two grandma that we found out that one grandma (Dad's mom) was already booked by my auntie and family. Only mom's mommy is available. And that's because my uncle and two aunties celebrated for her one day in advance.

And so, it was a date with Grandma on Mother's Day. And the funniest thing is that while we were deciding where to go for dinner since most of the places must be really crowded, it was Po Po that intro us to this lovely eatery @ Tan Que Lan Street. The food is really good. It was the same eatery which my auntie and uncle brought her to on sat.

Indeed, time spend with them is more precious and meaningful than $ or gifts. And yes, i would be spending this weekend with afew friends plus two of my lovely grandmas and family. While i wish i was away on holiday like afew of my friends, well ... at least, i think i will have a good holiday in town too. I hope!

Britain's Got Talent Andrew Johnston

2008-05-16T23:07:00.002+08:00

Following in the footsteps of Paul Potts, this 13 year old kid blows the judges away on Britain's Got Talent.

Britain's Got Talent: Andrew Johnston exclusive
By Lara Gould Tv Editor Lara.Gould@Sundaymirror.Co.Uk 13/04/2008

With his angelic voice and cherubic looks, teenager Andrew Johnston looks like he has the world at his feet.

But Andrew, who was the big hit on the first episode of Britain's Got Talent last night, has had a tough journey to the brink of stardom.

A childhood spent in dire poverty saw him surviving on a diet of bread and milk.

And if that wasn't bad enough, he has endured hell at the hands of bullies because of his love of opera.

Prodigy Andrew, 13, was one of a handful of acts, including contortionist Iona Luvsandorj, funnyman Craig Harper and girl group Scala, to make it through to the next round on the ITV show.

His breathtaking performance of Pie Jesu wowed judges and left panellist Amanda Holden in tears.

Mum Morag Johnston, 48, has told the Sunday Mirror how she walked out of the family home with Andrew when he was just eight months old and struggled single-handed on the breadline to raise him and her three other children.

Andrew, the youngest, was in her arms when she left after her relationship with his dad, Andrew Snr, fell apart.

"I had no job, no income and no home to go to." she said.

"The kids had to make do with bread and milk for dinner because there was no money.

"It was the blackest time of our lives. At the lowest point, I had to go without food because there wasn't enough money for us all to eat. When we did have money for food, I had to make it last. I could make a pound of mince last for days.

"All the kids wore hand me-downs or clothes I made myself. We didn't have any heating, and even if we had I couldn't have afforded to pay the bills.

"Instead we had to go out and collect wood for the fire just to keep warm. I went to sleep every night praying life would get better.

"If you asked me to describe a living hell, that would be it."

Morag - whose three other children Kelly, 27, Jodie, 25, and 22-year-old Daniel are from her first marriage - suffered another blow when her father died a few months later.

"I hit rock bottom then," she said. "Everything seemed to be happening at once but my kids got me through."

Morag kept her family together by taking low-paid jobs. She said: "I've worked in factories, delivered sandwiches, packed eggs at a farm and delivered Indian takeaways.

"Andrew would come with me on jobs because I couldn't afford a babysitter. He would sleep in the back of the car while I took food to people's front doors at all hours. It taught Andrew that nothing comes for free."

Andrew's amazing singing voice was discovered by a teacher when he was seven.

Morag explained: "Andrew has always been very quiet and shy so we had no idea he had this incredible voice. His primary school teacher suggested I took him to the cathedral to join the choir.

"They auditioned him and saw his potential immediately - he is now head chorister at Carlisle Cathedral.

"But I still hadn't heard his voice. The first time I heard him I cried. His voice just blew me away. Even now I get emotional when I hear him sing because it's such a beacon of hope."

But Andrew's success has come at a cost, as he revealed on last night's show. He told judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden and Piers Morgan how his love of classical music had brought him problems with bullies.

And Morag said: "Andrew comes home from school in floods of tears and runs up to his room to cry because of the taunts. Kids call him gay just because he's in a choir.

"He's too frightened to go out and play in the street in case the bullies come out and start. He's been physically threatened too, but it's the words that cut deepest.

"Physical scars fade. And as his mum I can help make them better. Verbal comments leave no visible mark but last forever.

"It is heartbreaking to see my own son so upset just because he has been born with a God-given talent."

She added: "Lots of times Andrew has begged me to let him quit singing to stop the bullying. It would be such a waste if he threw away this incredible talent.

"It's easy to fall into the wrong crowd and there's always the threat of drink and drugs where we live.

"Andrew is determined to make something of himself and I hope Britain's Got Talent gives him the confidence to believe he can do whatever he wants in life."

Andrew now lives with his mum in a three-bedroom housing association home in Carlisle, Cumbria. He has little contact with his father, who only found out about his son's success on Britain's Got Talent from his local paper.

Morag, who works as a researcher for the Office for National Statistics and supplements her income with benefits, said winning the show's £100,000 prize money would give her son financial security.

She said: "It would give Andrew the kind of start in life I can't give him."

It's Party Time

2008-05-02T21:00:00.020+08:00

Last friday was my company's dinner. This is the first time i am working with Chua Enlai as my host. I met him once in my office 2 weeks ago to discuss about the evening program with him.

I don't know much about him except that he is tall, talented and has been involved in numerous theatre and musicals. I last saw him perform at the V Conference in Movida. My impression of him ... not much. But he has a really deep voice.

The dinner went pretty well. For çorporate dinner, there's always games. Mr Tomioka is very sporting and we can all see that he had great fun. Mr Ishizaki-san, his colleague told us that Mr Tomioka must have not too much to drink.

The other "contestants" in the same game. The host got afew people up the stage. He read afew items and the guests, especially those from the same table are suppose to bring the items up to them. The contestants had to do a catwalk with all the items.

'The Jackpot Bingo Game'. The value of the jackpot increases a small amount for every game played. Instead of using the real jackpot, we use REAL people.

Elvis Presley - the King of Rock and Roll performs. The crowd loves it.

My friends from the airlines enjoying themselves.

And i love this the best. It is just so hillarious. In the game 'Deal or No Deal'. Emily was the first to go on stage to answer a question. After answering the question right, she can choose the prize which she wants from one of the paperbags (without knowing what is in it). And guess what ... she won herself an afro wig. She was dead surprised and knew instanly that she was in deep trouble.

She's got to wear the wig and turn on the boggie moves and get funky. She looks really cool! All i can say is that i'm glad i am not the one up there. Ha ha!

My friend Daniel was being pulled up to the stage again this year. None of us saboed him. The emcee pulled him up the stage. Thankfully, he got it easy this time and won a prize by answering a really simple question.

When it's your event and u work while everyone enjoys, the FUN usually begins after the event ends. The close friends and partners will usually stay around and we'll take phtos, photos and more photos. Always relieved that the event is over and RELAX is the word.

And of course, how can we not take pictures together with Çhua Enlai, my host for the evening.

Till then:

Addio!
Ciao!
Au Revoir!

Keppel @ Marina Bay

2008-04-28T00:38:00.000+08:00

This is going to be my new favourite hang-out place. It's Marina @ Keppel Bay, the only residential development in Singapore to have its own world-class marina on its very own private island. Crossing over to the Marina is made freely accessible via a 245-metre long iconic cable-stayed bridge.

When i was there over the weekend, Boat-Asia was on and this explains why the place was hmm .. kind of crowded. It's a relatively new place but still, saw someone that i knew. First, it was Irene, a publisher from the travel trade. Next, it was Wee Min in TCC. Singapore is just so small.

Bangkok Get-Away

2008-04-27T23:56:00.025+08:00

Afew weeks back, i went for a short get-away with afew of my cousins to bangkok (my second home). It was the first time travelling together with them. The trip was discussed over CNY and since we had free accommodations, all we had to do was to buy an air-ticket.

Raring to go

SQ 626 via Bangkok

We wished we could go to Osaka instead. Too bad, we had to óff-load' and alight in the land of thousand smiles.

Shen works in a design and architecture firm. The company specialises in designing and doing up hotels and luxury condominums. They have a thai office in Silom, Bangkok and above the office is a 6-rooms apartment. That will be our home during the trip.

This is the thai office and they have a showroom downstairs. The furnitures are really nice but i think the price is not so nice.

Let me show u around the apartment. The living & dining area is really HUGE and comfy. The apartment is quite well equipped. There's a good selection of movies and dvds left by the previous expats or guests of the staff. Even the utensils are all chic looking. Hmm .. this is so much more fun than staying in a hotel.

The rooms are comfy and cosy. I kind of like the open-concept of the shower. Something different.

Shen brought us to a restaurant by the river for dinner on one of the nites. It's called Patravadi Theatre, home of the performing arts. It is located next to the Chao Phraya River bank, across from the Royal Grand Palace. The Theatre itself is an idyllic garden compound of various spaces, including a medium-sized theatre-in-the-garden, two studio-sized theatres, a gallery, an open-air restaurant, a souvenir shop and a number of full-serviced rooms and apartments. The view is nice but too bad, the afternoon sun and heat got into me and i was sick that night. Couldn't enjoy the view, food or entertainment.

Patravadi Theatre
69/1 Soi Wat Rakang Arun Amarin Rd.
Siriraj Bangkok 10700 THAILAND
TEL: +66 (0) 2412 7287

Food Court @ The Siam Paragon. Very Interesting concept. Food Hall Food Court is arranged in a crescent-like fashion with a sizeable aquarium standing in the middle.

Joyce and me love the retro looking chair at Ruen-Nuan Massage Studio. I love the thai massage there and the masseur was really good. One touch at my back and she immediatedly knew my problem. I had severe back-ache and at times, i couldn't even move my back. She recommended that i go for massage at least once every 2 weeks or once a month. Well, if i am in bangkok, not a problem. But in Singapore, well .. i have to find somewhere that is good and affordable. Anyway, the place is also recommended by luxe bangkok city guide and wallpaper city guide. It's a little gem. No faff, no frills, just great value.

By the way, it's located at 42 Convent Road, Silom. Its open from 10am - last reservation at 9pm. Tel: +66 (0) 2 632 2662/3 . Yes, it was so comfortable and i enjoyed it so much that i almost wore their slippers home. Ha Ha!

Food, Glorious Food! I am so glad i managed to eat my favourite noodle @ Noodi right after i arrived in BKK.

And yes, just like my previous trips .. i actually bump into someone familiar in BKK. This time, it's Michael Chow and wife, a work associate. The world is just so small.

I am too lazy to upload more photos. My cousin Shen uploaded some shots which he took with his camera phone onto his online-photo album. U can view more pictures by clicking on the title.

My Blood Type Restaurant

2008-04-25T00:04:00.005+08:00

Yesterday, i had a lunch appointment at a really interesting resturant. It's called My Blood Type Restaurant. The menu gives reference to each blood type and we can choose our menu according to our blood type. The store sells a variety of home made cookies, vitamins and healthy juices too.

Bertrand, the chief has been teaching at Palate Sensations and has worked in various hotels and restaurants. The menu comes divided according to blood types. They do not use artificial flavors, refined sugar, saturated fat or processed food in their cooking. This means that you can eat to your heart’s content without feeling guilty.

My blood type is O+ and i had the option to choose between beef and fish as my main course. One of my colleagues belongs to the A+ blood group. The person in charge told her that she should not eat too much meat. Ha ha .. this means that she could only choose fish as her main. Anyway, most of us had great fun during the luncheon.

If you are keen to try, My Blood Type is located at Golden Shoe Car Park, behind Raffles Place. By the way, the lemongrass drink is really nice. Do order it when you are there.

Last but not least, let me share with u what i learnt.

TYPE O at a Glance

The Hunter: Strong, Self-Reliant, Leader

Strenths: Hardy digestive tract, strong immune system, natural defenses against infections, system designed for efficient metabolism and preservations of nutrients

Weakness: Intolerant to new dietary and environmental conditions, tendency toward an overactive immune system

Medical Risks: Blood clotting disorders, inflamatory diseases such as arthritis, low thyriod production, ulcers, allergies

Diet Profile: High protein, meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, limited grains, beans, legumes

Weight Loss Key: Avoid wheat, corn, navy beans, lentils, cabbage, dairy foods. Use kelp, seafood, red met, liver, kale, spinach, broccoli, olive oil

Supplements: Vitamin B, Vitamin K, Calcium, Iodine, Licorice, Kelp

Exercise Regimen: Intense physical exercise, such as aerobics, running and martial arts

Type A at a Glance

The Cultivator: Settled, Visionary, Analytical

Strengths: Adapts well to dietary and environmental variety. System preserves and metabolizes nutrients efficiently

Weakness: Unable to digest and metabolize meat protein easily. Vulnerable immune system, open to microbial invasion

Medical Risks: Heart disease. Type I and Type II diabetes, Cancer, Liver and gallbladder disorders

Diet Profile: Vegetarian, vegetables, tofu, seafood, grains, beans, legumes, fruit

Weight Loss Key: Avoid meat, diary, kidnet bean, lima bean, wheat. Use olive oil, soy foods, seafood, vegetables, pineapple

Supplements: Vitamin B12. folic acid, vitamin c, vitamin e, hawthorn, exhinacea, quercetin, milk thistle

Exercise Regimen: Calming centering exercises such as yoga and tai chi

TYPE B at a Glance

The Nomad: Balanced, Flexible, Creative

Strengths: Strong immune system, versatile adaption to dietary and envorinmental changes, balanced nervous system

Weakness: No natural weakness. However imbalance causes tendency toward autoimmune disease and rare slow-growing viruses

Medical Risks: Type I diabetes. Chronic fatogue, autoimmune diseases: Lou Gehrig's disease, lupus, multiple sclerosis

Diet Profile: Balanced Omnivore. Meat, Diary, Grains, Vegetables, fruit

Weight Loss Ley: Aviod chicken, corn, lentil, peanuts, sesame seeds, buckweat wheat. Use greens, eggs, venision, liver, licorice, tea

Supplements: Magnesium, licorice, ginko biloba, lecithin

Exercise Regime: Moderate physical exercise with a mental component such as hiking, cycling, tennis and swimming.

Blank ......

2008-04-23T23:59:00.003+08:00

最近心里有很多感触，但是我好象一个字在blog里面都写不出来。

也许是应为有太多烦恼了吧！

在我面前，仿佛有很多东西或事情都要做出选择和决定。心里觉得很矛盾.压力也觉得有点大。

Never Say Never

2008-04-19T01:10:00.003+08:00

It has been a long time since i met up with friends to chill out on a friday nite. Met up with two friends and we had a great nite out .. basically to chat and catch up with eachother's life.

I was happy to know that one of them just got attached. And it was even more interesting to know how she met her other half. It was through the introduction of a mutual friend of ours. Call it coincidence or god's plans but both attends the same church/parish since young but do not know eachother. Like what we always say ... for some things, it's just so near, but yet so far. And yet so far, but just so near.

And isn't it strange that for some things, the more you dislike it, the more you get it. This is so true at times. Yes, never say never. Now i am getting a little worried. But well, if it's God's plans and his will, then it shall be it.

Colours .. Not Black & White

2008-04-11T23:51:00.007+08:00

It has been a NOT so good week for me.

Pressures, Questions, Wishes, Struggles, Frustrations, Unhappiness, Stresses ... it's part and parcle of life. Responsibilities, Pressures, Realities in life. The endless wishes, the endless wants, needs, well .. it's never ending!

Wish so much that GOD would just explain and tell me what to do in my dream tonite.

My cousin Joyce just emailed me something which cheered me up. It says ..
every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you'll never get back

How true! I'll have to remind myself, hey .. always look at the positive side of things! GOD is in control!

"SEX-Y IN THE CITY" THE MENS SHOW

2008-04-05T00:17:00.016+08:00

Last year, i was invited to attend the Opening Ceremony of Singapore Fashion Festival but unfortunatedly, i could not attend as it clashes with one of my events. I was really disappointed as i was looking forward to it. This year, i was invited once again to attend the Opening Dinner by my business partner, MasterCard who is the presenting sponsor for this year's fashion festival. How lucky i am! It clashes with my schedule again as i would be in Bangkok on that day. I can't believe that this is happening to me twice in a row.

So this afternoon, i made it up by attending my first SFF fashion show. Managed to get 4 VIP tickets to the much talked about all mens show - "SEX-Y IN THE CITY" featuring designer men's underwear from the likes of John Galliano, Emporio Armani, DKNY, 2(x)ist and more. And of course, one of the highlights for most is to see the super hottie Marcus Schenkenberg, one of the highest paid male supermodel in the world take to the catwalk. One of my colleagues wanted to watch this show due to the publicity. And so, we went.

It was good to meet some familiar faces @ the tent where the fashion show was held. Bumped into Zandal and Irene, my bank partners at the VIP lounge. Both happily left their male bosses in the office and came with their female colleagues to watch the show. Adrian, my cousin was at the show too.

Personally for me, i think the reality of attending such events, besides seeing the collection is well, basically to see and be seen. Pretty true. Some of us tried to look out for David Gan but nope, he wasn't there. Amongst the crowd were some local artist such as Hossan Leong, Chen Hanwei, Allan Wu, Patricia Mok, Piere Peng, Andrea DÇruz, Ix Shen & Erica Lee. And of course, the usual who's who in the fashion and media industry. Plus some others whom you definedly can't miss.

But i guess i was happy to see one of my favourite designer, Ashely Isham. But still, a pity i missed out on so many good shows. Well, like all things ... there's always next year. And well, some day, i hope to get an opportunity to organise a major international fashion show. That will be one of the highlights in my career. Over the years, i've learnt that some things are not so far-fetched as it seems. Who knows, if opportunity allows, i'll get the chance to make it a reality. That will be like a wish come true!

Oh Baby!

2008-03-26T01:48:00.003+08:00

Check this out! This is the very cute and handsome Baby SEAN. Just in case u are wondering who the parents are. It's Nicholas & Joanna.

Let The Pictures Do The Talking

2008-03-25T22:30:00.000+08:00

My exhibition ended 3 weeks ago. The photos were passed to me last week and i only had the chance to see it now. Out of the many events which i have done, this is one of those creative concepts which i kind of like & feel satisfied on the look and feel on how it is executed, especially to on-site items such as stage, car-park barriers, banners, signages, entrance arch etc.

The theme: Reveal a World of Beauty, Spleandour & Mystery

The Entrance Arch

The Stage

Atrium Banners

Pylon

Banners @ MRT Linkway

Carpark Barriers

Directional Signage

Programme Signage

Form Filling Counter

What's the event without performances such as:

The Award Winning Lion Dance Troupe which showcases the various stunts

Cultural Dance Performance from Philippines (WOW Philippines)

The G-String Guys aka Performers from Taiwan (Welcome To Taiwan)

Drumers from Japan

Cultural Dance Performance from Malaysia (Malaysia, Truly Asia)

The Long & Crazy Queue that stretches all the way from the hall to almost the MRT station

And not forgetting the CROWD!

Baby! Baby!

2008-03-24T23:43:00.009+08:00

Saturday was Baby Ashton's BIG day. He was a STAR coz. it's his first month baby party. All his mommy and daddy friends and relatives were invited. Amongst the many aunties and uncles that turned up, there were Ashton mommy's classmates such as Auntie Jessie, Auntie Yvonne, Auntie Sharon, Auntie Pat, Auntie Mabel, Auntie Felicia and not forgetting, Auntie Wendy as well.

(Picture is dark coz. not using flash and the room was rather dark)

Unfortunatedly, Auntie Jessie left early and did not get the chance to meet Baby Damien and the rest of her friends. Will need to arrange for another get-together.

It was the first time seeing Baby Ashton. I did not get to visit him in the hospital as i had an exhibition going on at the same time. Baby Ashton is really cute and has nice lips. Unfortunatedly, he is in his lala land when we went to his party. The STAR was sleeping throughout while the rest of the aunties and uncles were having a
party for him in the living room. He must be wondering .. what's the noise all about.

Ashton is a very nice name and i like it very much. It's unique and coincidentally, Zoe Tay's second son also shares the same name. While our 'STAR' is sleeping, the rest of us had an enjoyable time playing with Damien. He is our 'BIG MAC'.

Great Food. Great Fun. Great Company

2008-03-22T23:19:00.002+08:00

Had an enjoyable time on Good Friday at Jean's place. I love her cosy apartment. If i had one of my own, i wouldn't mind staying home most of the time and just invite friends over to chill out. I love her 'private movie room' too. Such a brillant idea to watch movies by using the projector.

We were suppose to have BBQ but unfortunatedly, the barbeque pit was already booked. Thus, we catered some food but it was quite nice too. Thanks to Ronald for the durian feast which we had by the poolside. Will be perfect if there was some wine at that time.

One for the memories. Those who turned up for the party. Glad that Christine came to join us too. After downloading the photo last night, i realised that the photo seems to show Simon pulling Edwin's ear. Ha ha!

Penny realised it after i emailed the photos out. She did some photo editing to remove the hands. Now it looks perfect. If not, it looks as if Edwin is being bullied.

I love the Elmo toy that Jean has. Perfect toy to make u feel happy after a day's work & to release stress too. When squeezed, Elmo would chortle and begin to shake and laugh hysterically. Seeing Elmo falls down and wiggles on the ground, and then gets back up by himself is just so funny. I'll consider getting one for myself.

This Is Cool

2008-03-22T02:57:00.008+08:00

I was at the national museum afew days ago with my colleagues and i love the grandeur of the architeture and it reminded me alot about my visits of the musuems in Europe.

I love the fibreglass statue of David is 8.5m. No one would miss it as it is placed in the centre of the museum historical rotunda.

I also like the interesting 'Art' on the wall just outside the museum shop. The piece of art was made up with homeware such as plastic soup spoons, plastic gloves, funnels, etc. Quite cool!

I love this design the best coz. it is so cute and innovative in a way.

On the way out, my colleagues and me walked past the 'artistic wall' again and we realised that the design has all changed. We saw a group of youngsters moving some of the 'materials' on the wall and came out with new designs. It was then when we realised that the spoons, funnels etc are all movable. We had a great laugh over it.

What i love best about the musuem is the two lovely bars cum cafe and restaurants. Muse and Novus. Planning to host an event there soon. I think the guests would love it. I think my friends would love this new chill out place too.

Thaddeus @ 3 months

2008-03-16T23:30:00.005+08:00

Went to visit Thaddeus after celebrating Philip, KW & May Leng's birthday today. Was suppose to go over grandma's place to play with baby last nite but unfortunatedly, i was unwell and plan was cancelled last min. My cousins, grandma were all expecting mom & me to go over but so sorry, just can't make it. Thankfully, i am well again this morning and made it up today. What touches me today is that two of my grandmas actually called and ask if i was alright and gave me 'health tips'. Very sweet and thoughtful of them.

Anyway, Baby Junior has grown bigger, heavier and longer. He is 5plus kg now and mom, auntie violet, joyce & me were all complaning that our arms ache after carrying him for awhile. At that point, i really felt very proud of all my friends who have become mummies. Their arms must have ache like crazy. But well, i guess it becomes part and parcel when it's your own child.

As for Thaddeus, we hear that his daddy carries him on one hand at times and used baby as dumb-bell. Hmm .. father and son bonding in their own way. ha ha!

Thaddeus @ 3 months. Me carrying him on one hand and taking photo of him with the other. Don't think i can do the same thing for long.

Looking forward to playing with Damien on tuesday and seeing Baby Ashton for the first time on sat during his first month.

A Perfect Weekend Get-away

2008-03-14T23:00:00.001+08:00

I had a fantastic weekend and hope that many of my weekends is just like that.

Saturday was a very fruitful day. Under Hope Vision Ministry, we conducted a video workshop which i thought was very good and well attended. All thanks to the hardwork by the team (Steven, Meng Chong, Ronald, KW & myself).

After the session ended in the evening, Penny, KW & me went to Bintan to join Benny, Peggy & her two friends there. We took the last ferry and the sea was really choppy. We were kind of in a rush and Penny left her camera in the cab. Realised it just when we were about to check in. Thankfully, we managed to trace the taxi-driver and found the camera back. When i reached Bintan ferry terminal, i was surprised to meet Eric, Simon & Fiona there. They were there for golf and were waiting for the last ferry to take them home.

It was 8.30pm by the time we reached Banyu Biru Villa and our dear host, Peggy brought us around the 'house'. I am impressed. The 3 bed-room villa is big & comfortable and the best thing is that it is fully equipped. Since the villa belongs to PSA, all the essentials were there. Microwave, refrigerator, dvd, utensils and all.

After supper and some TV programs, those who were still wide awake had a mid-night session of card games. It was really fun and somewhere along the session, everyone went silent. All in deep thoughts about strategy.

Sunday was enjoyable. The guys went to the gym while Christine, Penny and myself went for a dip in the pool and sauna. Sarah didn't want to swim and went for a walk by the beach instead. Like what Peggy said .... Tai Tai life. Ha ha ... for the morning only i suppose. Lunch was such a feast. We had yummy curry chicken prepared by Benny's mom and abalone instant noodle plus other stuff.

After lunch, some of them chose to chill out in the villa watching movies while Penny, Christine and myself went for a nice 2 hour walk around Nirwana Gardens. It was really fun. We love the hammock best. But by the time we got back to the villa, we were just on time to join the rest for another movie.

It was great fun plus great company too. Wish the rest could join us. Who are the rest? Well .. if u are reading this, u know who i am referring to. Ha ha!

What A Week

2008-03-08T02:12:00.005+08:00

Prayer Request this week:

Pray for Meng Xiong (my family member) who just underwent brain surgery and is in ICU right now. Frankly speaking, i am really worried for him. Pray that God will heal him soon. But one good thing that came about it is that the christians in my family are united in hearts and prayers for him.

And just last saturday, praise the lord .. my cousin who's attending Living Praise Church bought a table for dinner evangelistic service. My cousin invited me, grandma, mom & dad, auntie tina etc to attended the session. It's so cool! They are non christians and under normal circumstances, this wouldn't have happened. And it was during the dinner function where i saw the very sporting part of mom. My cousins were really surprised. Well .. actually they shouldn't be surprised coz. most of my family members are very sporting people. But i think mom & dad is more sporting than me for sure.

I'm still hanging on to God's promise! One day .. someday ... you know what i mean.

And this week, i thought i should be feeling stress-free now that my event is just over. But i was wrong, absolutely wrong. On the contary, i felt stress .. and more stress. I guess that's because responsibilites @ work has grown, i have a new team with me, heading the whole department, my own expectations, live up or exceed others expectations on me etc etc etc.

Somehow, i kind of envy my colleague. She just delivered her second child on tue and is currently at home on maternity leave. Seriously, i think if there's an option, i would willingly swop my roles with her. OK .. not that it's stress free taking care of the baby. But well, it's a different kind of JOY! Hang on .. my time will come soon.

And this week, i actually sat down with mom to watch Lydia Sum's memorial service on the internet. We have been following the news rather closely. For the first time, i saw tears rolling down from mom's eyes as different people gave the eulogy. Her death has reminded me of many lessons in life. She's a good role model. I know that if grandpa was alive, he would have alot of good things to say alot about her. After all, grandpa used to be in the entertainment line.

An Experience Onboard Singapore Flyer

2008-03-05T22:16:00.041+08:00

After a busy week, i had the privilege of being invited to go on a FAM trip yesterday on board Singapore's most anticipated new attraction - The Singapore Flyer.

The final capsule was installed on 2 October last year. The observation wheel started rotating on February 11 and it officially opened to the public on March 1. This exceeds The Star of Nanchang by 5 metres and the London Eye by 30 metres.

The Flyer stands at 165 metres tall and offers a breathtaking, panoramic views of Singapore and beyond. The capsule measures 4 metres by 7 metres and has an interior space of 28 square metres, comfortably accommodating a maximum of 28 passengers. Each ride takes about 30 minutes.

My colleagues and i were told to go up to Level 3 after picking up our complimentary tickets.

I found this picture from Nic's camera. He must have taken it while i was away. The dog is so cute.

View of the capsule from L2.

Once we got on board, everyone seems to be totally busy taking pictures.

We were really excited as the capsule moves up. I enjoyed the azure blue tropical sky, towering skyscrappers, lush grennery and vibrant city.

So how's the view like from the flyer? Check this out ...

Singapore's very first integrated resort

Marina Bay Golf Course, the first public 18-hole golf course in Singapore, the latest addition to Singapore's golfing scene.

F1 Circuit

The colourful floating stadium

Esplanade Theatres on the Bay located at the picturesque waterfront overlooking marina bay.

Suntec/Marina Area

Jalan Sultan/ Gateway East Area

Tanjung Rhu

Kallang/ National Stadium

City Skyline

We had a great time up there

At the higher point

At the highest point ... U Feel It, And They Announce It!

Feeling totally happy & satified after the ride. Who needs to go on London Eye now. Ha ha .. we have our own Singapore Flyer. I'll try going for an evening ride some day. I believe the experience will be different.

Check This Out: The St Regis Singapore

2008-03-05T21:22:00.019+08:00

The St. Regis was opened on 22 Dec last year but somehow, i never had the chance to visit till today.

But where exactly is The St. Regis located? I really had no idea. I guessed it must be along the tanglin area since Orchard Road doesn't have any available plot of land to build any more hotels. And i don't notice any new properties at Marina area. And i was right. My colleague Jeff told me that it's along Tanglin Road, just five minutes away from Tanglin Mall & Tanglin Shopping Centre.

I went with my colleagues and we had some drinks at the Astor Bar before the sales & marketing staff brought us around.

It’s a luxury hotel and thus, rooms are really nice and comfortable.Bathroom is spacious and well equipped. Butler is at your beck & call 24 hours a day and brings press pot coffee (complimentary) any time you need it. However, the price-tag doesn’t come cheap. For the price which you are paying for just one night accommodation, you can easily go for a short holiday.

This is the Executive Deluxe Room - Double

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Executive Deluxe Room - King

Executive Deluxe Room - Bathroom

Busy Checking Out The Rooms

View From One Of The Rooms

Executive Deluxe Room Suite - Living Room

Meeting Room

Swimming Pool

As we went around, the staff told us that The St. Regis Singapore is the 13th St. Regis hotel in the world, the third in Asia after Beijing and Shanghai. It has 299 guest rooms and what’s unique about The St.Regis is that it has three chauffer-driven Bentleys in the unique St. Regis bronze colour. The hotel also aims to be the front-runner in the luxury hotel business, with services such as butlers on every floor. And what’s unique about the ballroom is that it features two large skylights.

St. Regis has several restaurants, one of which is LaBrezza which overlooks the swimming pool. It will be beautiful at night. They have a 3-course set lunch at $40. Not too bad for a corporate luncheon.

At the lobby

With that said, I would recommend the St. Regis to business travelers and not for families with young children.

Friends. Family. Prayers

2008-02-28T23:54:00.008+08:00

This afternoon, i bump into Alicia, my uni friend whom i have not met for many years at the food court in expo. She came up to me just when i was about to leave and said : I think i know you ... You Are ...... And i quickly added .. Wendy from RMIT. We were both really excited and happy to see eachother again.

Every time i am on-site for exh, i am bound to meet up with various people. As i had people waiting for me, i quickly asked for Alicia's number and left. After settling my stuff, i quickly went back to the foodcourt to look for my 'long-lost' friend and caught up a little.

Just a couple of days back, i was just thinking about the different people whom i have met in my different phase of life. There are some who are casual friends who are the hi & bye kinds and there are others whom you form very close relationships with. But what happens when we go our separate ways? Do we become strangers or do we continue from where we left. But really, it take efforts from both end to keep the relationship going.

I would say that today is quite a day.

1)Eve gave birth to Baby Ashton this morning.

2)MingXiong (my 'small uncle') went for his 8 hour brain surgery this afternoon. I'm worried for him because it's a major surgery and at the same time, really caught by surprise by the news. I mean, he is such a young guy who has a whole life ahead of him, bright career and just started a family. He looks healthy and you mean this is happening to him. I can't believe it.

There is little that we can do now except that all chritians in our family will joint in prayer to pray for him. I just hope that all goes well. If not, i will have several regrets in my life. Regrets of not getting to know him better because we only meet once a year, regrets of not having the chance to talk to him during this CNY because he just drop by for a short while and i didn't even get the chance to say Happy New Year to him.

3) Auntie Gay's mom who went for her colonsectomy this morning. I hope that nothing serious happens.

4) A close business associate introduced me to his new staff today and jokingly told me that the person will be taking over him. I seriously thought it was a joke but later found out that he is indeed leaving. I felt a little sad because after all, i have known him for many years. It's like for everything, there is a beginning and a end. I hope he will enjoy what he will do in his new job.

Amazing Race, Amazing Team

2008-02-25T23:43:00.003+08:00

Congratulations to Collin & Adrian for winning THE AMAZING RACE ASIA. You guys did Singapore proud.

I was fliiping through the pages of a recent copy of 8 Days when i saw a familiar face. Wow ... Collin actually emerged as the winner.

I met Collin through the course of work several years back when he was working for one of the newspaper publications. Someone told me that he is very fit and is a part-time fitness instructor in a local gym. Impressive! And he went this far to be beat the other groups and emerged as the winner. What can i say but Simply Incredible!

永远忘不了的沈殿霞

2008-02-23T02:03:00.011+08:00

It has been an extremly busy time at work this week. Many late nights and by the time i reached home, i am dead tired. But somehow, i still find time to catch up with the news on the passing away of Lydia Sum.

I am no big fan of hers but i remember her as an extremly professional artiste and talented host on many TVB variety shows which i watched since young. What really touches me this week is what Joyce, her daughter said during the press conference on her mom's death. She finished her address by saying: "I will not let you down and I will be good. I will try my best to learn to be a responsible woman. I know my mother wanted this the most. Thank you."

Tears just simply rolled down from my eyes. Simple words but so heart-felt. It also reminded me of who i am right now. That in everything that i do, i should always do my best and not dissappoint the people in my life and around me.

While reading the news, i chanced upon Joyce's blog afew days back. It was the first time i heard this very touching song entitled "連心". I didn't realise that it was sang by Joyce and her mentor, 劉家昌 till yesterday. I am deeply moved by the lyrics because it also reminded me of mom who is always behind me, and God who is always with me through ups and downs in my life.

It is Lydia's favourite song and it will be presented during the memorial service on 2 March. The clip below shows Joyce & her teacher presenting the song when Lydia accepted her TVB Special Achievement Award last November. It was also the last time which she appeared on national tV.

Based on the many reports which i read, there are indeed many attributes and qualities which i can learn from her. Her professionalim and dedication to her passion, she stands by her friends through ups and downs, always there for people, her dedication and love for her love ones etc. It is no wonder why she is so highly respected and love by hong kong people and asians.

Goodbye Lydia. May you rest in peace.

連心曲/詞：劉家昌

女：你站在我後面支撐我更勇敢

我能超越大海我能跨過高山

男：我站在你後面我陪在你身邊

當你遇到任何困難我會與你分擔

女：你給我的溫暖讓我走出暗淡

這份真摯情感深到海底遠過天邊

男：我就在你身邊一切為你承擔

我們倆的心手相連共渡年復一年

合：真愛永不改變不能缺少一半

一步一個腳印腳印疊在一起

一直走到永遠

Princess Charlotte's 1 Yr Old Birthday

2008-02-17T22:39:00.010+08:00

Charlotte turns 1 yr old today. Her mommy & daddy threw a birthday celebration for her yesterday and invited all the aunties and uncles. And of course, not forgetting Charlotte's friends like Zach, Sean, Zoe, Jed, Theophilus and Jadyn.

Charlotte's birthday cake with Dora picture on it.

The princess with her family

As for me, it was a good time meeting up with old friends. And Penny introduced me to her new WII game. It was fun, and can be addictive. I had two rounds of bowling session with Penny, Ee-lin & Soo Guan. It was quite cool. We could actually bowl in the comfort of home. I think if i didn't have plans to visit Lisan and Baby Kaelynn at their new home, i could have stayed and played the whole night. Ha Ha!

The Good Old Days

2008-02-11T23:51:00.008+08:00

This is really COOL!

I found these photos at my grandma's place on the second day of CNY.So vintage and nostlagic. I've never seen pictures of my grandma (mom's mommy) when she was young. And yes, pictures of my mom and auntie too when they were really young.

Looking at grandma's photos, it reminds me of the movie, "In the Mood for Love" by Wong Kar-wai. It's about a Shanghainese community in Hong Kong and is notable for its use of a variety of cheongsam worn by female lead Maggie Cheung.

Mom told me that this is grandma and her best friend. Wow ...

And this is quite an eye opener too. I can't remember if i have ever seen photos of mom when she was this young. Mom is standing on the right.

This is so exciting and interesting!

The Lunar Celebration Continues

2008-02-10T23:48:00.000+08:00

My house hosted the Party of the Year every first day of Chinese New Year. I did a count and i had a total of 86 people at my place. If it's full attendance, it should be about 120 pax. The amount of cleaning and washing is quite a mountainful. Thankfully, my neighbour, Mr & Mrs Ong are away and the maid came over for dinner and helped us out.

My home is busting with activities and is super happening. Although everyone is related, not everyone knows everyone. This applies especially to the younger generation.

Always feed the kids first.

Chill out in the garden.

A household full of people.

Enjoying the fruits.

Fruit platter in style. I love it.

While it's good to meet up with relatives, it seems to me at some point that CNY is getting more and more boring. Anyway, i caught up with my 'çousin', Nelson aka Ah Tun (dad's cousin son) who's currently working in IBM Atlanta. He is back for his CNY holidays. He has been working there for 6 years and plans to return to Singapore for visit only once every two years.

It was also a nice time playing with Sean & Cindy and Edwin & Christina kids. These are the ones whom i meet once every year. Cindy and Edwin are siblings. They are my
grandma younger sister kids. I grew up with Cindy and i remember playing barbie dolls with her when we were young.

Sean and Cindy has 4 kids. Sarah is the eldest and she will be primary one next year. The other 3 siblings are triplates. I can never remember their names. Out of the three triplates, i can only remmeber one who's called Caleb. As to who is elder, that is quite a challenge to remember.

Caleb?, Esther, Eaton, Xuan, Sarah, Caleb?

First time for Lynn and me taking pictures with the kids. Sean told us that we have to bribe them so that they all seat down together.

Edwin and Christina has a total of 3 kids now. That's Eaton who's in K2 this year, followed by Esther and 4 months old Ariel. I think Esther loves taking photos. She really knows how to pose and smile.

Eaton and his sister, Esther. Both siblings love to pose.

As usual, kids quarrel and fight over anything and everything. This time, it's a stick which they found from the garden.

Also met my 2 months old 'baby cousin' Huan Bin for the first time. He is my far-distant relative - grandma's younger sister son's baby.

On friday which is the second day of New Year, went over to mom's side for lunch as usual. Didn't get the chance to meet one of my cousin, Yen whom i have not seen for a long time. Apparently, she was working that day and will be coming over only in the evening. My cousin, Shen also suggested that the cousins should go for a short holiday together. It sounds exciting because as long as i could remember, we have never gone on a holday together before.

The gals playing poker.

Cute Thaddeus @ 2 months old.

And i met my so-called God-Brother who dropped by for visitation with is wife and son. His siblings are on holiday this year. My so-called God-parents are no longer around. In the past, i used to ask mom why i needed God-parents and how did they come about choosing the couple. Well! I can't remember the exact reasons but anyway, i have never been close to them. They are like complete strangers to me.

Thereafter, it was off to Uncle Robert & Auntie Judy's place.

My second lo-hei.

The celebration continues on sat. Yesterday, mom's side came over for lunch and we had steamboat again. I had my third lo-hei and there will be another 6 - 7 more lo-hei to go for me when i get back to the office. This is also the first time that Baby Thaddeus comes over to my place.

My third lo-hei.

Daddy feeding his son.

The group went over to Uncle Chua & Auntie Gemma's place for visitation after lunch. Coco, their golden retriever is so huge and fierce.

Thereafter, headed to Mabel's place for gathering. Had a very nice time playing with Damien. After that, we went out for dinenr and it's the first time we brought damien out for with all the aunties. Thankfully, he's quite easy to handle and well-behave. A pity that Yvonne and Eve couldn't join us.

Damien is already 5 months.

Celebrating The Year Of The Rat

2008-02-07T12:54:00.000+08:00

Reunion dinner is slighly different this year. We had Steamboat aka Seoul Garden style this year. So much neater and simpler than before. But one thing still remains, the food is more than sufficient to feed at least another 10 person or so. That's my mom's trademark.

Preparing for dinner.

And Lynn baked some cakes and brought it over. My place is the HQ for gathering every CNY.

This is just one box. There are still many boxes which she made.

I also had my first lo-hei which Uncle Alex & Auntie Soo bought from Ponggol Seafood. Somehow, my family is BIG and there isn't enough space for everyone to squeeze in to lo-hei together.

Gems Of The West

2008-01-31T01:09:00.001+08:00

Philip and Kee recently introduced me to this hawker stall @ Taman Jurong. They serve one of the best fish head curry around and all the other dishes are really good as well. It's quite value-for-money and the stall is located at the corner of level 3 (Stall #03-139/140). It's quite easy to find because you are easily spot the queue or just look out for the curry fish head picture.

I've tried it twice and will be back for more. It's one of my favourite sat nite makan places at the moment.

What's Your Gender IQ?

2008-01-31T00:24:00.000+08:00

I attended the Healthy Relationships Essentials seminar organised by church this week. I thought the Gender IQ exercise is quite enjoyable. For those who are not there, try it. The questions as follows. It'll give you a general idea of how much you already know about the fundamental differences between the genders. Answer each of the following items as either true or false.

Q1) Women are better spells than men.

Q2) Men are more likely than women to use conversations to solve problems.

Q3) Women have larger connections between their brain's left and right hemispheres.

Q4) Men are better than reading the emotions of others than women are.

Q5) Men score higher on the math section of the SAT than do women.

Q6) In comparison to men, women are better at maintaining a sense of geographical direction.

Q7) Men are better than women ar fitting suitcases into a crowded car boot.

Q8) Women are better than men at describing their feelings.

Q9) Men, more than women, fochus their energy on achievement.

Q10) Women, more than men, give priority to relationships.

I'm quite lucky. Had a perfect score.

If you want to know the answers, email me. Or perhaps, i''ll post it up shortly.

Have FUN!

Popeye's Chicken

2008-01-30T00:51:00.000+08:00

A few months ago when i was at Terminal 3 for a familiarisation tour with my colleagues, one of them who used to work in the airport introduced us to this fast food joint @ Terminal 1 called Popeye's Chicken (level 2).
Interestingly, it has been around at the airport for many years but somehow, i never knew it existed.

Today, i went there for lunch with some colleagues as we were around the area. It's the second time i am eating it. Personally, i think it's nicer than KFC but i guess it's up to personal preference. The chicken is much bigger than the ones sold in KFC and i like the biscuit (aka muffin) that comes along with it.

The brand is from New Orleans and besides the chicken, what's interesting is that they actually play the Popeye cartoon on the screens. However, the fast food chain is not named after Popeye the sailor but allegedly after the character "Popeye" Doyle from the 1971 film The French Connection. The restaurant chain had obtained a license for use of the cartoon character and advertise the name as Popeye's after Popeye the sailor.

Do try it if you happen to be at T1.

A Song By Akigawa Masashi

2008-01-28T23:56:00.000+08:00

Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am in a thousand winds that blow,
I am the softly falling snow.
I am the gentle showers of rain,
I am the fields of ripening grain.
I am in the morning hush,
I am in the graceful rush
Of beautiful birds in circling flight,
I am the starshine of the night.
I am in the flowers that bloom,
I am in a quiet room.
I am in the birds that sing,
I am in each lovely thing.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there. I do not die.

Arrival of Kaelynn Yew

2008-01-27T23:14:00.000+08:00

Finally, my dear friend David and Lisan were promoted and became parents to a baby girl. Kaelynn was born this morning and i went to the hospital to visit Lisan and see baby this evening. Kaelynn has lots of hair and is such a sweet little darling. I'm sure everyone around her, including myself will really dote on her. She's such a sweetie!

KK's Birthday

2008-01-27T23:13:00.000+08:00

January is a month of many birthdays. There's Jan, Jo, Julia, Gladys, KK etc.

Thursday was KK's birthday and the group celebrated with him over steamboat dinner @ Liang Seah Street. We had fun but i guess it would be really nice if it's a friday nite instead. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Fields & Valley

2008-01-26T21:49:00.001+08:00

Last Sunday, i went on an outing to Neo Tiew & Sunggei Tenggah area with my neighbour, relatives plus mom & dad. For once, it seems that we were all on a trip to Malaysia. We were travelling beyond our familiar turf to see the countryside of Singapore. So far, this is only my second time travelling up north to the sungei bulloh area.I could remember the first trip very well. It was Cheryl's birthday and we went to Bollywood Veggies and Famart.

For this trip, the guys went in one car and the ladies in the other.

The car ride was very enjoyable and we passed by this road where you can see that Johor Bahru is just opposite.

Mom's friend, Auntie Janet's family owns a very big nursery @ Neo Tiew. They supply many plants and flowers to many nurseries and shops. When i was there, there were quite afew retailers selecting their plants to sell. It was very interesting and refreshing for me. I love such places. A good break from the city.

We met Auntie Janet's brother and he told us that we should come back only in about ten days time to buy plants and flowers for CNY. Even if we buy now, we will not be able to take good care of the plants. They have yet to add in certain fertilisers. In the end, the whole group bought soil for their home-gardens instead and promised to return next weekend.

This is suppose to be very good for the plants. It comes from India and the soil has many types of nutrients in it. This is the compressed soil.

After this, we headed to another nursery at Sungei Tenggah. It was a nice ride as well but we got lost along the way.

The driver (Mrs Ong) and the navigator (Auntie Judy) couldn't decide on the directions. Should they turn left or go straight. Finally, the two cars had to park at the side of the road to discuss.

We found our way to the next nursery and i guess everyone was happy because they all bought something. While the trip was interesting, the weather was bad. It was very hot one moment and it rained another. We kept opening and closing our umbrellas. In the end, i suffered big time. Had migrane and did what i did best. (Hee hee .. only my close friends will know what i mean).

A New Dining Experience

2008-01-25T00:11:00.001+08:00

Any one interested in having a unique dining experience. You can have breakfast, lunch, dinner or cocktail or invite your boss for a meeting while enjoying your meal. 50 meters above ground dining event arranged by a professional event arranger of Benji Fun company.

It provides 22 seating complete with Chef, server, musician and you can select your own location without limitation. Guarantee safety with the hoisting crane which can accommodate the whole band of musicians, or making an automobile presentation to your customers. This restaurant is in Belgium..

Bad News Is Hard To Break

2008-01-17T23:00:00.000+08:00

I went to bed feeling heavy-hearted last nite. Even in my dreams, i was trying to prepare myself to break a piece of bad news to my colleague. I hate to know that i would be dashing the hopes of somebody once i step into the office in the morning and i simply hate it.

It's easy sharing good news to people. But when it's all about bad news, i just find myself difficult to do so. I tried to use the correct words to beautify the bad news, to make it seems better. But bad news are just bad news. No matter how you try to beautify it, it's still bad. It just makes me feel really awlful.

感触

2008-01-15T23:50:00.000+08:00

在念书的时候，我想很多人都象我一样，不喜欢考试。

我最讨厌在等待老师发成绩单的那时刻。应为不知道成绩如何。是否及格或没考
上。心里很紧张。过了这么多年，我还是记得那种感觉。真不好受。

这几天，心情就如拿成绩单的那时候。不过这次心里觉得好伤心。应为觉得自己没考上. 没象朋友一样，获得优秀的表现和成绩。只能够对自己说，要多加努力!不能放弃。直到目地为止。

.....................................................................................

今天，工作不流利。对一些事情感到非常不满，觉得好不公平，好不开心。前些日子， Tricia email 我这首非常动听和感人的歌曲。歌名是： 祷告 (PRAY). 回家的时候，刚巧在 MP4 里听到这首歌。提醒了我好多事情。心里也感到好安慰.

Kayaking Is Fun

2008-01-14T23:59:00.000+08:00

I went kayaking with some friends on sunday. The weather forecast said that there would be thunderstorm and rain in certain parts of Singapore. Thankfully, it didn't rain at lakeside although the sky was dark.

It was the first time for some of us trying kayaking (including me). It's not difficult and i enjoyed it. Age is not a problem too. Even Auntie Poon, Alvin & Penny's mother came to join us. We thought Penny was joking with us earlier.

We kayaked for two hours before going into Chinese Garden to feed the fishes. Another highlight of the day for all of us is the curry fish head dinner. It was supposedly to be really good. And it is indeed. A pity that some other friends could not join us. It's ok! We can arrange again.

If i am fortunate enough .......

2008-01-14T16:06:00.001+08:00

(my cousin WuChuang carrying Yoke Ling's son)

my son could be this big. Ha ha! This is Yoke Ling's son. Yoke ling and me were classmates during pre-university days. We didn't keep in touch as we had different group of friends. We later met eachother again during my cousin's wedding. They happen to be good friends and are teachers from the same school. I bump into her again at my cousin's baby first month celebration on saturday.

Her son is soo cute, adorable and lovable.

The Wedding Invitation

2008-01-12T09:13:00.000+08:00

Chris, my ex-housemate in hong kong just send me an email yesterday. I can't believe it but she's invited to attend Ada Choi's (蔡少芬) wedding. I love to watch her dramas. My Miss Hong Kong is making me soooo envious. I am also attending a wedding today. The difference is that it is not Ada's wedding. I suppose that's one of the perks of working in TVB station. She gets to work and travel alongside with celebrities.

蔡少芬

My friend is making me so envious. She went to Israel with Ada last year.

When we were in school, we used to joke alot of our dreams and wishes. She always told me that she hope to work in the TV station one day. And get to mingle with famous stars. It was more than a joke and dream back then. But many years down the road, it's a reality and i'm very happy for her. It just reminds me that wishes can be made true. It may seems far-fetched at times but when you work on it, it can turn into a reality.

Chris in Israel last year

Catching Up With Movies

2008-01-08T21:47:00.000+08:00

I've not watched chinese/cantonese movies for a very long time. The last movie is 門徒 (Protege)which i watched in the plane some trips back. The film is about the lucrative herion trade acted by Daniel Wu & Andy Lau. It left a deep impression on me because of a particular scene. It has rats crawling over one of the actress who has supposedly died of drugs intake.

Last week, i managed to catch up with 2 award-winning movies. They are 父子 (After This Our Exile) by Aaron Kwok & Charlie Yueng. The film won the best picture award during the 26th Hong Kong Film Awards and 43rd Golden Horse Awards. It talks about the relationship between father and son.

The other is 色戒 (Lust Caution)directed by Lee Ang and starring Tony Leung, Tang Wei & Lee Hom. The story follows a young woman, Mrs. Mak, who has taken a seemingly impossible mission to help with the plot to kill a Japanese collaborator, Mr. Yee, by seducing him. However, while successful in seducing Mr. Yee, she soon found herself falling in love with her target, with disastrous results for the plotters.

I enjoyed 色戒 (Lust Caution)more because of the excellent acting, cinematography and character development. Lee has captured the details well.

Hey There Delilah

2008-01-06T23:39:00.000+08:00

A nice song which i like. Enjoy!

Plain White T's Hey There Delilah Lyrics

Surprise! Surprise!

2008-01-06T23:14:00.000+08:00

Because .........

1) It was the first time my brother attended church service today. Not once but twice. I didn't ask him. He was the one that asked me bring him. Can't believe it because all my previous attempts failed on me terribly.

After Hope service, we went straight to attend the 2.30pm service at New Creation Church. He surprised me today when i woke up. When i opened my door, he asked me about church and if i could take him to New Creation Church. One of his friends attend New Creation Church and she has invited him to service last week. He was curious. I am glad things went well today. He enjoyed the services although he did not understand everything. And i think his impression of church has certainly changed. He say that it's very happening! What can i say but i hope for the very best next week.

2) I am still receiving birthday presents and well-wishes
Thanks Penny!

3)Received a phone call from an old friend whom i have not been in touch for several years. He called to send me birthday greetings and also arrange to meet up.

A Year To Remember

2008-01-06T22:35:00.000+08:00

2007 was quite a year. There were ups and downs, the good and bad, challenges, lessons of life and more. It was quite a tough year and i wondered how i pulled it through.

1) Feeling S-T-R-E-T-C-H-E-D
I think i must have been crazy for pushing myself so hard. In the early part of the year, i think i almost 'killed' myself for taking on 3 music courses at the same
time. I think i must be either feeling over ethusiastic or i must have felt that i had a 'deprived' childhood and wanted to make up for it. I wonder which it is. In the end, i couldn't cope and had to give up half half of it.

2)Stressed is desserts spelt backwards
Looking back, i wish i have reminded myself that Stressed is Desserts spelt backwards. Lijun was the one who told me this some time back. I remember she texted me this while i was on the way back home from choir practice. 2007 was one of the most stressful year for me, be it work or personal. The year started off with the most challenging and stressful project which i was handling. My mind was still thinking and working even while i was sleeping. There were so many nights that i turned off my lights only to quickly turn it on to write down the things which i need to do the next day or trying to figure out how to solve problems. It was crazy .. and scary! There were tears, fears, frustrations which i am glad i could release all to God. He helped me carry some of the load.

There were also things that came along the way that really tested my tolerance and limits. My tolerance for stress is usually high but there was this ultimate one where for the first time, i actually felt heart-ache and breathless. The one time experience will be the first and last. Karen has always said that we work too hard in Singapore. And life is too stressed. OK .. i'll see if i get the chance to join her and migrate to Australia some day.

Anyway, i am so thankful that God is always there to pull me through situations in his timely fashion and helped me deal with it. Lessons learnt. Try not to pile too much on myself, seek for assistance in areas which i need help rather than trying to be 'gung ho' and depend everything on myself and try to talk about the problems instead of keeping it to myself. I am not going to let myself 'die' of stress. It is so not worth it. There is still plenty of things which i want to do.

3) Frequent Traveller
I am really fortunate. Got the opportunity to travel to many countries (Hainan Island, Dalat, Ho Chi Minh, Osaka, Kyoto, Meleka, Hanoi, JB, Kota Tinggi, Kuala Lumpur, London, Holland & Germany).

I was travelling almost once a month. And yes, i finally had the chance to visit Vietnam and see the beautiful Halong Bay, Japan, UK & Europe. But i guess i was most thrilled about London and Europe. It's somewhere that i've always been wanting to go. I hope to get more opportunities this year.

4)New additions to the family
The little ones are such a joy. There's Junior and Huishan is just pregnant. Victor is also getting married in April. We are welcoming Alice into my family.

5) Positioning myself right before God
There is one area in my life which i have been struggling for the longest time. It pertains to obeying the Lord's commandments. I have tried many times to overcome it by my own strength but well, it failed. That was the only area which was an obstacle in me on loving God totally. About a year ago, the Lord spoke to me about loving God. Deut 6:5 "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that i give you today are to be upon your hearts". Loving God is not difficult. But loving God totally. Wow .. that can be tough.

During the last weekend of the year, i am so glad and happy because i managed to overcome the obstacle and had a breakthrough (at last). There was total freedom and peace in my heart. How timely it is. I was at home listening to the web broadcast of City Harvest Church sunday service while preparing to go to church. The leaders challenged the congregation on how they should enter the new year. How we enter the new year is very important as it determines how we are going to end the year. We want to enter it not in despair, not in discouragement, not in doubt, but we want to enter the new year in faith. The pastor also challenged the congregation to position ourselves and be a faithful steward. We need to position ourselves corretly for the supernatural in our lives. And when i as in church, Pastor Ben also made the same challenge. It was amazing.

But i am really feeling very HAPPY about myself in this area. A brand new start for the year. But it was miraculous of the many unexpected blessings that have already come in. And it's not even a week into the new year.

6) A Year of Weddings & Good News
My good friend Fiona got married and i was her bridesmaid. It is such a joy to see her happily married and Johann dotes on her so much (friend .. if you are reading this, hope i'm correct. Ha ha! This is based on what i observed). Two of my cousins got married. Patrick from my dad side and JW from my mom's side. And not forgetting friends who tied the knot, such as Galvin & Cecilia, Meng Chong & Sarah, Benny & Peggy, Jenny, Jessie and probably some others which i can't remember off hand.

There's lot of additions in terms of babies in my life too. Some of my close friends gave birth this year, such as Cheryl Q, Jo, Lynette, Sharon and JW. And not forgetting moms-to-be, Lisan and Huishan.

Met up with my ex-shepherd Susan in KL, heard that my ex-CL and friend Mark was attached, Mabel L planning to get married etc.

6) Vist from Old Friends
My good friend Karen & Steve were back to Singapore from Melbourne for about 2 months. It was so nice to spend time with them, especially with the kids. It was also the first time that i saw baby Rylan.

7) Saying Goodbye
For every goodbye a hello awaits. I finally plucked up the courage to change cell-gp after spending a good many years together with all of them. In a way, we kind of 'grew up' together. For the majority of them,we have always been in the same group or unit. For some, i knew them even before they got married. And now, they are already proud parents. It was a very tough decision and i took time to pray about it before deciding to move to WAM group.

I miss my old friends but the new friends are awesome too. It's great serving alongside with this group of people. But most importantly, i knew it was the right decision at the right time. It's going to be an exciting journey this year.

So it's goodbye 2007, hello 2008!

Discover Singapore

2008-01-06T19:20:00.000+08:00

I almost forgot about this till i saw the photos just now.

On Boxing day, i was on leave and after visiting Baby Junior, i went on a recee trip to Upper Pierce Reservior and Seletar Reservior. I was feeling really bored and since the weather is really nice, took a drive there to check it out. I have always passed by the place by the main road many times but not inside. It turned out to be really fun and interesting, partly because of the monkeys and also because i had my digital camera with me and my bro had his SLR. It turned out to be a photography session. I love to check out new places and this is one of those rare places which i have not been before.

Two days after the trip, there were reports in the papers informing the public not to feed the monkeys. Don't worry. I'm not one of them but there were many who did that when i was there.

Anyway, check out the place if you have not. It's nice to also get close to nature and enjoy the greeneries at times.

Death @ 40

2008-01-05T22:46:00.000+08:00

Came home early last nite only to be greeted by the news from dad and grandma that MC King has just died. I was just at the door-step and have not even stepped into the house yet. My family and i are not BIG fans of him but in a way, he has been pretty much a household name.

Coincidentally, i had accidentally chanced upon his blog only afew months back. After the sudden death of Kenneth & Cathy Loh's son, MJ's accdent, the passing on of grand uncle, my perspective of life has really changed alot. It reminds me that life is short. While everything is accordance to God's timing, well .. you really don't know if you will still be around the next day. Like what my colleague Patricia always say, leave life to the fullest everyday.

1.1.2008

2008-01-02T20:42:00.000+08:00

My birthday has just come and gone. This is the first year which i did not celebrate with any of the church friends. For the past years, it was always celebrated at the stroke of midnight on new year's eve with them. What made it special was that the group would celebrate Cecilia's birthday together with me as her birthday falls on the 31st Dec.

This year, my family celebrated it for me at the stroke of midnite during our annual family party bash. I also had lunch with my pre-u friends. Although it was nice to be with my family, somehow i wish i was with my friends.

But well, it was incredible. I received many smses, emails, msn throughout the day from all the people that means the world to me. Thanks so much. I won't mention names here coz. there are simply too many people but you know who u are. What can i say but i feel so blessed. What a way to start the year.

What's amazing too were the little surprises that came along the way. Received an unexpected gift from my new cousin-in-law which i thought was a really nice gesture. Well-wishes from my good friend Karen in Melbourne and not forgetting greetings from
ex-housemate Chris, all the way from Hong Kong too. I'm surprised that she remembered my birthday coz. we have not been in touch for several years.

In the words of my colleague & friend, Ginny .. yes indeed, not everyone gets to receive double wishes on the same day. I am indeed lucky. Thanks once again. U guys means alot to me. HAPPY NEW YEAR by the way and to many more good years together!

12 Day Old Junoir

2007-12-28T01:30:00.000+08:00

This is Junior @ 12 days old. Had some 'Baby' talk with my cousin yesterday and it seems that she's still trying to cope with her new role as a mother. All babies look pretty alike when they are new-borns. My cousin was telling me that she can't figure out which is her son if he's put in the nursery room right now. And she can't tell if Junior has put on weight. Certainly, i can feel it when i carried him.

And this is the first time i see my bro carrying a baby. He feels super stress and didn't dare to move. This is when i realised that my uncle has not carried his grandson yet. He keeps giving all kinds of excuses. I guess he feels that Junior is too fragile for him.

Interestingly, i saw the confinement auntie changing the poop of Junior last week (when he was six days old). I was surprised by the colour of the newborn stools. It was Sticky Green-Black in colour. I asked my friend Sharon and she told me that baby's first bowel movements will consist of meconium, which is a sticky green-black substance present in the intestine before birth.

For two to six days after birth, stools will be a mixture of meconium and milk bi-products, spinach-green, or yellow in color. Later, the baby will have yellow, green, or brown stools, formed or unformed. Ok! I learnt something new!

Christmas: My Favourite Time of The Year!

2007-12-26T22:16:00.000+08:00

This Christmas is very different for me. It was a quiet affair as compared to last year. Last Christmas, i celebrated it in a big fashion on christmas eve. My éx-unit' organised a party and everyone came over to my place. We had a BIG Bash.

This Christmas, attended a Christmas Play with mom, bro and auntie gay at St. Andrew's Cathedral on 21 Dec. My cousin Weijun was one of the main cast in the play entitled "Silence The Night", performed by the Lync Youth Ministry. I am surprised that my dear cousin could act so well.

This is the first time i saw the 'very talented' side of her which i never knew. That's because whenever we have family gatherings, she's always very quiet. Can't fault her for that because there isn't anyone who's in the same age group as her.

Attended church service on saturday with Mabel & MJ @ the rock auditorium.

I didn't enjoy the musical but i love the 'flip chart presentation'. It's a very powerful testimony and demonstration as to how the Lord has transformed individuals. It was handwritten and a personal statement and conviction based on individual's experience. Behind each board was a transformed life. I could relate with it and felt very touched. I believe many share the same sentiments.

Went down to suntec again on sun to join my ex-cg for lunch. It feels kind of weird for me not attending service on sunday. There were more familiar faces on sun as compared to the service on sat. The first person i met outside the auditorium was Sharon Tay, my ex-school-mate. She was trying to make her son sleep. We chatted a little. I turned around and saw Lynette & Baby Zach. I carried Baby Zach and yeap, he has indeed put on some weight. Next, i bump into Karen, Yean Shien plus many more.

It was really nice to see everyone. I miss the cute babies so much. Zoe has grown taller, Sean is becoming more and more handsome and has grown bigger, Charlotte is getting cuter and cuter each day (very jap/korean looking) and Jadyn is such a smily baby.

Christmas eve was a simple affair. Went over to Benny & Peggy's place for a turkey and ham dinner. On Christmas Day, i woke up early to attend the 9.30am service @ City Harvest. It was meaningful for me as it's the first time attending a Christmas Service on Christmas Day. I am glad that i was in church rather than in bed. I enjoyed the Changs production very much. And in the afternoon, i had a good time catching up with the gals @ Sharon's new place. It was also the first time seeing Eve in her pregnant state. But she really doesn't look pregnant even though it's just two more months before she's due. She looks as if she could still go clubbing.
And of course, all the aunties had a great time playing with Baby Damien. Time flies. He's almost 4 months old.

I guess most had a great time this Christmas. But really, what does Christmas means to you? Just today, i chanced upon this booklet which Jo helped the christmas party committee produced last year. In it were some of the thoughts penned down by some friends. It's very meaningful and heartfelt. Here are some:

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"It is a time to reflect on God's mercy, grace and love in the form of Jesus, especially seen in the light of the year's events, and humble the heart in thanksgving to God" - evelyn tang

"It is a giving and jouyful season as Christ has saved us" - chayanid

"A birthday celebration is incomplete and meaningless without the birthday person's presence. Christmas gifts and parties without the person's (Jesus Christ) presence is thus likewise" - cheryl quek

"It's more than just silver bells and mistletoe. It's a time to celebrate the Savior's birth, amid good food and wine, and together with people who mean the world to me" - karen lee

"The birth of Christ is the beginning of a miracle; reminds me that 'We are the reason' why there is even a Christmas!' - lynette sim

"It's when family becomes friends and friends become family" - alvin poon

"It's spending time with family and close friends to celebrate Christ's birth together. Birthdays are always spent with people close to you and Christ's birthday is no exception" - bellina yu

"It's getting together with loved ones and a day to remember and be thankful for what Christians are and have in Christ" - mabel tan

"It's the celebration of the birth of our Saviour Jesus Christ, ans spreading good tidings and blessing those less priviledged" - jimmy loo

"Time to feast on friendship and laughter. Time to indulge, on one of its kind festive mood. Time to ponder, on the past year and the one ahead" - soo guan

"A season for giving (and receiving) and a reminder of the start of my journey in the Hope family" - galvin lim

"It's a celebration of life; a gift of eternity which God has bestowed on us. It marks the compassion and love of God; His ultimate sacrifice of sending his son down to earth - born as a normal man and finally dying on the cross for the sins of the world" - alan sim

The New Addition In My Family: Mr Junior

2007-12-20T22:09:00.000+08:00

My cousin Jerwen just gave birth to a baby boy 6 days ago. The baby was 3 weeks pre-mature and it feels so light when i carried him just now.

The birth of Mr Junior (that's baby's temporary name coz. the parents has not decided on his name yet) has brought alot of joy in the family because he is the first great-grand child (the first cousin to give birth on my mom's side). You can imagine the joy for everyone because he's the first baby in the family.

Most of us gathered at my cousin's place this afternoon to see the baby. He is so cute!

(Voice-over by Auntie Gemma)

感谢主

2007-12-20T01:47:00.000+08:00

The year is coming to an end and there are many things which i am thankful to God for. One of the areas is work.

It has been a very frustrating and dry period for me this quarter. Things were becoming overbearing and i felt that it was up to my limits.

It's so true that God will not allow anything to come into our lives that we are not capable of withstanding. It applies to me in this case. He probably knows my struggles and my frustrations. It was making me stressed, unhappy and in a way, i felt really down.

Things took a turn on monday when all the staff were shown the new organisation chart and it was like a christmas gift to me. It was a big surprise, totally unexpected because i would be heading the department next year. And the cause of all my frustrations is being restructured out to head a new department.

But on the otherhand, i now have mixed sentiments about it. It's going to be an extra challenging year ahead as i will be heading the whole department. Xtra stress perhaps since my department is the main-revenue earner and i've got to show results and produce constant new ideals. Not that it's anything new. But the difference is that the responsibility lies in me now. And i've got to work on my weakness and turn it into my strength. In a way, it's really getting out of my comfort zone.

Oh Lord ... i know i can only do it with your strength, courage and guidance.

An Early Christmas Celebration

2007-12-18T00:50:00.001+08:00

Last thursday was my company christmas party which i organised for partners of the travel trade. The party was held @ Via Mar, The Esplanade and all the guests had a fantastic time networking, partying and drinking away. Some groups were having a party within a party.

Goodie Bags for the guests

The guests love the food. It's spanish btw.

Friends from the airline

The ever entertaining Mr Hamid-San

Have not seen Anthony for a long time. He is looking good and well .. being saboed for the nite.

I Love London

2007-12-13T00:05:00.000+08:00

I enjoyed my recent trip to London. I was there to attend the World Travel Mart (WTM) cum holiday and did most of the things which i wanted to do, visited the popular tourist sights and tried most of the food which i wanted to. The only thing which i didn't get to visit is Hampton Court and travel to Bath. Like some of my friends say, keep it for the next trip then. Well ... who knows when?

London is a really expensive place to live in. Hotel rates are very high and is a real killer. I spend 8 days in London and these are some of the places which i visted.

Sightseeing @ The Kensington Palace

I arrived in London on sunday morning @ 5.30am. It was quite an adventure travelling alone. The previous times when i travel alone was to Bangkok 2 years back. The experience is a little different as i am familiar with Bangkok but it's my first time in London.

I had jet-lag on the first day when i arrived but managed to visit the Kensington Palace, which was the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria. I enjoyed walking in the park more than musuem tour. There were children playing in the park, family and friends hanging out together and people jogging on a sunday afternoon.

Tip 1: Plan your trip well. Visit the places which you know your colleagues/friends do not want to visit before they arrive.

Nite Out @ The Musical: Mary Poppins

I love this small little cafe called "Patisserie Valarie", just down the road from Prince Edward Theatre where the musical, Mary Poppins was playing. I happen to walk pass this cafe on the way to collect the musical tickets. The display was simply too attractive and i had to try the cakes there.

I later found out that Patisserie Valarie is one of the popular cafes in London (which explains why it was so crowded) and was opened since 1926 by a lady called Madam Valarie. There's a huge variety of cakes and pastries to choose from and it took me awhile before i could decide what i wanted.

It was a wednesday nite when i watched Mary Poppins. The musical has been playing at the Prince Edward Theatre for 3 years and production will close on Jan 12 2008 followed by a U.K tour production. I can't believe this but i was dozing off during some parts of the show. Not that it's boring but i am simply tired. For the past few nites, have been woken by by smses send by people in Singapore in the wee hours.

Tip 2: Try to watch musicals at least 2 days after you arrive so that your body has sufficient time to adjust to local timing and u won't end up falling asleep in the theatre.

Visit to Tower of London

I enjoyed the trip to Tower of London very much. When Auntie Soo heard that i was going to London, she told me that i had to visit this place to see the crown jewels. I can't imagine myself being here in summer. It would be too hot for me. As for the jewels, well ... it's real.

Tip3: Join the free tower of london guided tour instead of walking around the place alone. It's about an hour and you get to know more about the history plus stories.

The Famous Icon: Tower Bridge

I love the Tower bridge which is a combined bascule and suspension bridge in London, over the River Thames. It is close to the Tower of London, which gives it its name. I guess the whole experience and feel will be very different from day and nite.

Historical Visit To St. Paul's Cathedral

After my visit to Tower of London, i took a bus ride to St. Paul's Cathedral. Thanks to Valarie and Ruby of Visit Britain who gave me the heritage pass, it allows me free admission to the cathedral. I love the design and architecture. The dome which is world-famous and an iconic feature of the London skyline is really quite an impressive facade.

Too bad no pictures are allowed in the cathedral. The interior is fabulous with its glittering mosaics, intricate stone carving and breathtaking vantage points.

I had fun taking pictures outside the cathedral. The whole place was so huge and these shots are taken by my boss.

The Modern Art Museum

Along the bridge (from St. Paul's to Tate Modern)

A short 5-10 minutes walk from St. Paul's Cathedral will bring you to Tate Modern, the national gallery of international modern art. The Collection comprises the national collection of British art from the year 1500 to the present day, and of international modern art.

I had a fabulous lunch on the 7th floor @ the Tate Modern resturantn which offers a magnificent view of the River Thames, St. Paul's and the City of London.

Tate Modern

Nice View & Fabulous Food

Tip4: It's free admission to Tate Modern. Don't miss it even if you are not a fan of modern art (just like me). But it's still nice to walk around and see some of the works just for the experience.

Lots To See @ The British Musuem

The British Museum holds in trust for the nation and the world a collection of art and antiquities from ancient and living cultures. Housed in one of Britain's architectural landmarks, the collection is one of the finest in existence, spanning two million years of human history. Access to the collection is free.

I enjoyed the visit very much, especially on the egyptian culture. There was an exhibit on the mummies which gives me a greater insight on the ancient egyptian world. So much to see, so little time.

Tip 5: Give yourself at least two hours for the visit. Before you start to walk around, arrange the time with your partner or friends on the time and place to meet just in case you get lost. This will allow you ample time to comfortably walk around and see things at your own time and own pace without wasting time to look around for people. Most importantly, get a copy of the map before you start walking around.

And i love this small little car. Very cute. My boss and colleague can't resist but asked me to take a picture with it.

But i love the white one better (which i saw near the hotel which i was staying.

The Famous Harrods

So finally i get to visit the famous Harrods store who has always prided itself on reputation for excellence and finest quality merchandise. But things are really expensive and it's just good enough to take a look. The best thing out of Harrods is that they allow photography. That makes me really happy. The stall decoration makes everything looks soo good.

I love the food hall. The decoration is superb. So is the price.

Covent Garden

Another place which i like very much is covent garden. It has many interesting shops. Anita's brother, Edwin who works in London just stay above H & M, which is just a minute walk from Convent Tube Station. Very Convenient. But it's very crowded on a friday night when we were there.

We met Edwin for dinner on friday nite at an Indian Place at Piccadilly Circus called Chowki. He said it was one of the better ones. Portions are small but well, filling.

Edwin and Anita. She was very impressed with her brother that day. Said that she has never seen her brother dressed so smartly before. She had to take a photo together and show it to their mom. Edwin said that's because he had a meeting earlier.

Know Your Neighbourhood: Gloucester and Its Surroundings

I stayed at Millennium Gloucter for five nites but never once got the chance to walk around the area except the very morning when i was suppose to check-out. After breakfast, went for a nice photpgraphy walk with Anita. Weather was freezing cold. I think it was about 5 degrees.

That's Me @ The London Phone Booth

I think i would be crazy taking pictures in the phone booth in Singapore. But well, what the heck. I like the phone booth in London. Quite cool! Anyway, who knows me here.

Rows of shops. You'll never get hungry with so many choices and varieties. There's Burger King, Flower Shops, Take-Aways etc.

Small little church down the road

Changing of Guards @ The Buckingham Palace

Here i am, at the official london residence of the British monarch. I am glad i came here early, right after breakfast. My boss was quite smart. Got a good spot for us to see the changing of guards. The draw back, well, the place is really crowded and be prepared to stand throughout.

Heaps of people everywhere all eager to see the changing of guards. I heard that during summer, there are more people.

Tip 6: Make sure you have your cameras with you and are all fully charged.You will be really dissappointed if your battery dies on you during this time.

The 'Royal' Christmas Tree

I passed by the Royal Mews (finest working stables) which is located next to Buckingham Palace. It has a permanent display of state vechicles which includes those carriages used for royal and state occassions. I did not visit the musuem, only the souvenir shop. But i love the "Royal Christmas Tree" which is decorated with crowns. It's very unique.

The 'Royal'Church

I visited the Westminster Abbey but too bad, i can't enter as they were preparing for the Queen's wedding anniversary celebrations and service which was held two days later. I'm actually quite disappointed.

Another Icon: The Big Ben

Happy to see the clock tower which is the world's largest four-faced, chiming clock.
It's just behind the Westminster Abbey. It started to drizzle at this point and thus, pictures didn't turn out too well.

Houses of Parliament

The Houses of Parliament is also known as the Palace of Westminster or the Westminster Palace. It's one of the largest Parliaments in the world. The layout of the Palace is intricate, with its existing buildings containing nearly 1,200 rooms, 100 staircases and well over three kilometres (two miles) of corridors.

The London Eye

At 135 metres above London, the London Eye is the world's tallest observation wheel, with 40km panoramic views on a clear day. I didn't get to take the london eye as tickets are expensive. I'm contended to just seeing it.

Tip 7: I understand that you get the same view from the top floor of Hyatt Hotel.

Church Service In London

During this trip, i managed to visit the Kensington Temple Church and Hillsongs London. Both services are conducted very differently.

Kensington Temple is a large Pentecostal Church in the Notting Hill area of London. It's the largest church in its denomination, the Elim Pentecostal Church. I attended the 9am service and the church goers are mainly africans.

When i was at Hillsongs London that very sunday, i found something similar to my home church. They had çhild dedication service too. To me, hillsongs london is more like the big churches in Singapore. Big in scale and high tech. Service is conducted at the Dominion Theatre. I spotted some books and CD roms of Pastor Prince at the bookstore. He had recently preached there some months back.

Europe's largest shopping street: Oxford Street

Oxford Street is a shopping paradise. So many things to see but not enough time. And yes, it's quite pretty right now coz. it's decked up with christmas decorations. But well, not as pretty as Orchard Road though. But still, i love Oxford Street for the variety of shops, interesting window displays, brands and malls which Singapore do not have, its architecture and i miss the cold weather too. Btw, Oxford Street is really long (approx a mile and half) and is spread over around 4 tube stations namely tottenham Court, oxford circus, bond street and marble-arch.

Oxford Street

There's familiar brands such as GAP

TopShop

H & M - My favourite shop which unfortunatedly is not available in Singapore yet.

Pret A Manger - My favourite sandwich joint which serves a huge variety of sandwiches and wraps. The name Pret A Manger means ready to eat in french. All sandwiches are made on the day of purchase in a kitchen at each location. Left-Overs are collected by charities that provide food to the homeless at the end of each day. The store can be found almost éverywhere' as there are 118 outlets in London. Thankfully, there's one outlet at 35 Robinson Road which opened last year but i think the portion should be slighly smaller. I should check it out one day.

Hamley's - one of the world's largest toy shop @ Regent Street (Off Oxford Street). The store is considered one of London's major tourist attractions, and receives about five million visitors a year.

Debenhams, one of the local shopping mall which i just passed by

Bayswater Area

Hyde Park Towers, the B & B place which i stayed for the last 2 extension nites is at Bayswater. It's quite near to Millennium Gloucester, where i stayed for the past 5nites. It is located in a superb location but rooms are really small. The single room which my boss was staying is smaller than a usual hostel room. The twin room is also very small but at least not so claustophobic. There isn't much of a walking space in the room though.

You will never get hungry especially if you are staying at Bayswater. It has lots of restaurants and eateries such as MANDARIN KITCHEN, one of my favourite Chinese restaurant and it has got to be one of the best in London. It's at Queensway, opposite the tube station and the speciality is the lobster noodle. The prime wild scottish lobster is baked whole in a giner and spring onion sauxe and served with thin noodles. Really Delicious! This place is highly recommended by many friends and even my industry partner from British Tourist Authority.

Another highly recommended chinese restaurant that sells very famous and popular roast duck is called FOUR SEASONS. It's just down the road where Mandarin Kitchen is. These are the only two chinese meals aka chinese restaurant which i ate during my trip in London. We had to take a queue number and wait for about forty minutes to get a table. Good thing is that the hotel where i am staying is just behind the row of restaurants. Super Convenient. Well, the wait is really worth it coz. the duck here is one of the best which i've ever tasted. The only dishes are your average chinese fare.

I had a fun time in London. Thanks to friends like Cheryl, Cecilia, Val, Jan & Jo who gave me loads of tips and loanned me stuff too.

Merry Christmas In Advance

2007-12-12T21:01:00.000+08:00

The original members of Straight No Chaser perform their comedic version of "The Twelve Days of Christmas" at the Musical Arts Center, Bloomington, Indiana. December 7th, 1998.

This is so cool. Enjoy!