Barlalee Yoh!

God is My Mechanic

2010-11-11T10:19:00.008+08:00

My washing machine is at the verge of breaking down the last 2 weeks. The water has been trickling in by the millimeter and it took more than 3 hours to just wash a load of clothes. Since it's not worth to repair a 10-year old machine, Gavin and I are thinking of changing a new one. Thus, I was casually asking the Lord that it will last for another month or so, till I receive my bonus in December!

Last night when I reached home, Gavin shared that God has given him CLEAR directions to resolve the problem earlier in the afternoon.

Gavin is not very good with repairing works. He is worried that if he tries to dismantle up the machine, he may not be able to put it back. Since we are planning to buy a new one anyway, he thought might as well just give it a try. The most is having to buy one this weekend! However, God directed his eyes not to the machine, but to the root of the problem – the filter in the tap head which is choked with rush.

From our perspectives, we just seems that the machine is simply old and giving way. But God knows what's going on.

He is not only a carpenter but a mechanic too. He not only heals people, but machines also.

God is concerned about our problem with our washing machine -- what more about our lives? Just like Soo Sing's sharing/prayer last night about how God provide her doctor with a CLEAR diagnosis of her recent pregnancy bleeding issue.

This morning when we washed our clothes, we can hear the strong gushing sound of water into the washing machine. I mean I detest washing, thus never appreciative of such background noise. But today, I simply grateful to hear that sound again.

Finally Caught Up with 2008

2008-12-31T11:04:00.008+08:00

It’s so fast to know that we are coming to the end of 2008 -- just like the Singapore’s inaugural Formula One Race – before you know it -- the whole place is done up in a jiff and after that it’s 61 laps down.

Although this year is supposing to be a “Year of Sabbath”, but I find myself busier than ever. Perhaps, that’s why so that we can then practice on learning to rest in the Lord in every circumstance or situation. The beginning of the year was good reminding myself to go slow and to spent more time with God, my family and children.

I think I failed towards the mid of the year when we became short-handed at home with Gavin starting on his new job; and at work with Rina’s absence. Then, there was also the world economic crises, but our family crises came much earlier. We were much more prepared knowing that we had just survived our family crisis and it will okay and enough. With all these happening so quickly, I find myself running on a threadmill on an even faster pace. Doing the same old routine and concentrating on running and eventually forgetting to turn to the source of power again. It was only until NOW - 31 December that I remember to pause and reflect my life this past one year and deliberately taking time to pen this down. Should have switch off that excercise machine earlier!!!

As I began to look back, many moments of joy first began to flow back to me, which is left me a sweet lingering taste. Hopefully I try to erase the hurting ones soon. There are so many other things I want to give thanks for:

The smooth transitioning of Joel and Bryan of moving on to the new childcare, Little Skoolhouse. Especially Joel, who used to cry pretty often at the previous school. Now he’s Guy Smiley again.

Bryan & Joel for being just them. Got a few canings here and there, overall, they are pretty good already, especially Bryan who is learning to be more sensible. I think his enrichment class did work for him. He gave Gavin and myself $50 each today from his hard-earned savings to thank us for everything. We decided to still take $50 from him to teach him about giving, however we spent it on their favourite Sakae Sushi instead.

An over-the-causeway trip to Genting Highlands over CNY. It was partially subsidized by a relative, however, we managed to bless her back eventually with some luck at the jackpot during the last hour, when our relatives offered to relieve us from babysitting the kids, while they waited for the tour bus to arrive.

“Gifts and surprises” blessings. Bought my Samsung Omnia at the Singtel Roadshow and won a Sony 32” TV. I also won the first prize of $70 Robinson vouchers, sponsored by my own dad for the lucky draw at our annual family Christmas party!

In celebration of my 10 years of my marriage to Gavin and NUS, God lead me to something I wished and prayed for 10 years ago regarding these 2 areas of my life. I am rather surprised as God remembers everything and just as I was simply being sucked into in my own life and almost forgot about that. I thank God for showing it to me once again and waking me up from my slumber. Hopefully, he can also give me the same energy and fire, as I had 10 years ago. The spirit is willing, however, the flesh is weak.

I started work in NUS in July and married in October in the same year. Both are like my left and right hand. It’s difficult to let go of one or the other. Often keeping them both balanced is hard. Although practice doesn't makes it perfect at all, but it does helps makes things easier.

Our 10 years of marriage is not like the bed of roses as you see now. We just leant that rose shrubs need to space to grow and the depth to allow their roots to develop. We also had cuts from the thorns, got sunburnt from toiling under the heat and it takes a constant effort to water and prune them. It also calls for rolling up the sleeves and trousers to uproot the weeds or grass. I read somewhere before that a new rose bush is like a baby, while it requires a lot of love and attention at first, it will grow stronger and more independent with time and you will surely be proud of the results! It takes us both 10 years to mature as a couple and to be more tolerant of each other weaknesses and see our strengths instead. We still quarrel, but lesser of petty issues nowadays. We can even joked about us being becoming accustomed to one another, or simply getting old already… haha

The other love of my life is my work and workplace at ARI, NUS. I still like what I am doing there still. It’s not that I’m loyal and signed life to NUS; or got no aspirations to move on. Besides, knowing what satisfies, motivates and keeps me going, the most important reason to coming to an office of which many are more than colleagues, but turned friends, as we see each other 8 hours a day and 5 times a week. Many have left ARI, however, many of us are still in touch. A special thanks to these pals whom we had walked closely with and held hands in 2008.

Yati – the one with big listening ears, and someone is who always there when I needed help, since day one when I started work at NUS.

Rina – for being the advisor. Her sensitiveness and resourcefulness always calms me down. Through her, I’ve learnt to go slow and not to bulldoze in my work, life and food, but taking time to appreciate the things around me more.

Sharon – for being the new blood, for her initiative and for allowing me to “boss” her around at times. She has been a great help. She’s also my new drinking pal - actually I’m more the newbie. I must get her to serve me “Blardy (M)ARI” the next time.

Aly - for her understanding and maturity for many things in life, despite her youth. I go to her for my counselling sessions slumping in her comfy couch. She will not hesitate to give me a swift kick-in-the-butt when I’m a bit deranged. A fantastic khaki to share a cab to Wheelock for a cuppa of mocha or sometimes retail therapy to liven up our sour kana moods.

Giving thanks for my spiritual family for their prayers and for showing me about God’s faithfulness and love in every of their testimonies. This year has not being an easy one especially for all, particularly for Rebekah and Eesh. We will continue to trust in His hope and victory, as we journey together.

Last but not least. Thank you God, for Your hands upon my family and my daily work, and for the many learning opportunities. For Your guidance and strength. Your faithfulness and providence. For the peace to know that life will be getting more challenging in the next few years, but you are there with us. May you continue to lead me to a purposeful and meaningful life.

I Cried At My Sons' Graduation

2008-11-29T22:58:00.019+08:00

Today is a very busy day, as Gavin and I have to rush from Bryan's Mindchamps Graduation at Toa Payoh to Joel's Graduation Concert at Ghim Moh.

Every child was asked to stand out in front of the class to read what they wrote in their Thank-You to their parents. Being the sentimental Bryan, he couldn't control his emotions and started to cry. I asked him why he cried. He replied me that he was very touched at what his friends had wrote and when it was finally his turn, he felt his emotions all welled-up. Mummy also shed tears of joy and am very proud of him.

This is what he wrote in the card.

Heart-shape card of thanks.

Dear Mum and Dad, You are speacial because you help me pay for the things I want. Next time, i will help you pay for the things you want. I will never be selfish again. Mum and Dad, I love you because you care for me. mum and Dad, I will never loose you. Love, Bryan.

Leave-shape card of wishes

Bryan Tan:
1) I wish that my parents will spend time with me more often.
2) I wish they will be togther in a happy life.

He simply loves the red cap.

Bryan with Teacher Johanna

Chef Joel performing a dance of "STOMP" with pots and pans.

By the way, he used to call himself a "cooker"
when he was young, before changing it to "chef".

I can't help but to share with you his other "ER" jokes,
which often had me in stitches.
A straw is called a "sucker".
A hanging hook is called a "hooker".

Supposingly, he was to be a farmer, but somehow I thought he looked more like a swordsman.

Guy smiley is so happy that we were there to catch his performance in his school concert. Although, he is not graduating till he's in K2 next year, however seeing him grown at a tremendous pace and is now able to perform 2 dances for me, makes me wanna tear again. I can't imagine when he graduate next year, I'll probably have to wear my sunnies and bring more tissues.

As you can see, it's always Joel bullying Bryan.

Lady-killer swordsman!
Mr Baey in the making?

Among his "boy" friends (so called)

Joel with form teacher, Teacher Zai

A very tired swordsman.

A pre-Chinese New Year shot?
Yeah, I didn't noticed that both of them were so red, until I downloaded the pictures.

It's All Worth It!

2008-11-26T23:48:00.009+08:00

Finally, I managed to hold my peace and waited till the end of 2 years to renew my mobile contract and most importantly to change my mobile phone to a SAMSUNG OMNIA. The annual Singtel Roadshow (around this time of the year) promises good bargains and freebies. So I left my kids and hubby at my mum's place, as I was mentally and physically prepared to queue for more than 3 hours just to get a new phone. However, the noticeboard there announced a minimum waiting time of at least 5 hours, which I thought it's crazy, as the dailies each day reported on the economic downturn. BUT, the crowd at the roadshow seems unfazed and I queued for more than an hour just to get a Q number! And another 2 hours hanging around the BookFest which was held concurrently at the same venue, before Singtel paged for me to return to collect and pay for my new handset, which took another 15 mins. By then, I was too tired and hungry to queue again to trade off my Dopod.

I thought I would just end my day with dinner with my parents and family for dinner at Viet Cong along Bras Brasah Road. However, my parents decided to walk to Suntec for some shopping of winter clothings for their winter trip to Korea at the end of the year. Seriously, I'm not sure why did I get the energy to walk back to Suntec again.

Immediately, upon reaching Suntec, I drag my family and headed back to the Singtel Roadshow again to trade off my old phone in the mass trade-off excercise. Indeed, I got a better trade-off rate of S$100 instead of $60, which I just checked with a Singtel shop the night before. I was extremely pleased. Then, I decided to stop by the redemption counter to exchange my receipt for a mug shot of my family, as a souvenir. The guy over the desk told us that he's participating our picture in the lucky draw to win a TV. Yet again, we spent another 1.5 hour there. I was so damned tired, but very pleased with my new handphone, the higher trade off value for my old phone and a souvenir mug shot. I didn't think much, but just wanted to head home to wash up and plonked on my sofa and watch my weekly doze of "Mobile Love Story"... Bliss.

Guess what? Almost a week later, Singtel called me to inform me that I have won a SONY TV in their "Best Smile Contest". Of course lah, I'm happy with my purchase that day what! But I think one of the main reason is having my whole family join in the picture to fill up the blue background, that's why the picture look better...hehe!

Other than the lucky jackpot at Genting Highlands this year, which I played for fun during my last hour before heading back to Singapore, so far this is my biggest prize that I have win in my life. Seriously, I do hope to win a TV, as the TV at home is a bulky CRT TV, which we had for almost 8-9 years, and I think it's still very reliable that it can last us for another good 5 years.

I'm so happy with my SAMSUNG OMNIA and 32" SONY BRAVIA. It's all worth the queue!

I Saw a Rainbow Today!

2008-11-22T01:42:00.003+08:00

God sets His rainbow in the sky
to remind us that
His promises never fail and
that His love never ends.

Bread & Butter, Bacon & Eggs

2008-11-18T23:16:00.004+08:00

I tell you it's really tough explaining to kids about what we do at work. Below are his drawings of our jobs based of his understanding of what I tried explaining to him. At that moment, I wish I held a noble job, such as being a teacher or policewoman, and it is easier to explain to them too!

I think my own dad too faced the same problem (like me) explaining to the young me then about what he did for a living. I remembered checking with my dad frequently about what to fill up under the section on father's occupation on the form, and as to how I should portray him in my composition about 'my family'.

In my primary school, dad told me he was a policeman, and of course, I'm not stupid lah, as I have not seen mum washed and dried his uniform.

It was until in secondary school that I finally knew what he does. When he finally revealed that he's a Director (co-partner) of an electroplating firm, my sisters and I did not believe him at first, as he cried wolves too many times. It was only when he showed us his name card, that we try to believe him and even tried our luck to cajole him to buy us Reebok track shoes. Perhaps, that partly one of the other reasons, why he hid it from us ... hehe

Oh man! I looked like a rabbit with flappy ears. Geez, if you don't know me, you could have thought I was an air stewardess or travel agent based on his drawings .... hehe

It was only when Aly asked if the 2 other people standing in the background are Sharon and her, that we suddenly realized that it's not only Joel, but majority of the kids are very observant. And I remembered that often he is able to draw for me the things he sees during his outing trips.

Erh, this picture seems like Daddy is selling eggs rather than machinery. And ah boy only gave his dad a few strands of hair - so poor thing.

I'm simply amused at the way Joel first draws the toes before adding the bubble shoes. And I also tried correcting him to draw the legs below the skirt or pants, rather than within the clothes. Perhaps, he really got X-ray eyes.

I love asking the kids to draw for me, as it is often funny and it reveals something about them too.

Curtains & Blinds

2008-11-11T22:49:00.004+08:00

Have been so busy lately that I haven't had the time to visit my hairstylist since July. The fringe is getting longer and I hate having to constantly sweep my fringe, as if my hands are not busy enough with typing *sigh*! That's why I have been keeping it long for the longest time till I cut it off this year. Having hair in the eyes is so uncomfortable. I wonder how can Paul Twohill from Singapore Idol managed to stay so cool.

I find it difficult to make eye contact with people with long fringe in a conversation. It's not sexy nor mysterious, but rather "pek chek". I wonder if I talking to a ghost or a piece of wall. I really wondered if the person really understood what I'm talking about, as both the ears are being covered and the eyes slightly revealed throught the curtains-like strands of hair.

It's one of those days, when our highly stressed brains decide to go bonkers again at around the 4 pm tea-break. After lamenting so much about our own hair and other people's hair, we decided to solve the issue of "curtains".

That's me above, with the traditional tied-back CURTAINS with ribbon on each side. And below is Aly doing a rendition on how to draw the BLINDS. See whether if you can remember this particular type of venetians blinds of the 1970s. One needs to twist the plastic knob at the end of the stick to the panels to tip the horitzontal slats open.

Sorry babe, I know you gonna kill me for putting this clip on my blog, however I only promised that I'll not post it on YouTube only ... hehe

And I could not help laughing,when I viewed this clip of yours again. You are very cartoon siah! Muahahaha!

Guess Who Is This?

2008-10-30T22:22:00.003+08:00

Found some of these digital pictures while clearing my dinosaur ZIP disks.

He is the sweetest when he sleeps, but the loudest when he weeps.

Aiyoh! Those scary eyes. Whenever he stares, Gavin and I will automatically switch to "Your wish is my command" gear.

Ah, that orange po-chim (bolster). It was meant to be a keyboard wrist rest from Kalms Gift shop, but the mother here is so creative that it ended up as his bolster. I bought like 5-6 different types, but his favourite is still the orange one which his kor-kor bought for him as a welcome gift. He is still using it, but of course, it's being thrown into the washing machine fortnightly.

I bet you thought that was Bryan, but he is actually Joel. Must put the 2 of them together side by side to tell the difference. As usual, it's always the younger one bullying the older one.

This is one of my favourite shot.
Didn't know my photography was that good huh ... hehe

Missing You

2008-10-24T12:12:00.001+08:00

Irresistable Family Cuisine

2008-10-16T23:33:00.003+08:00

It's a Hock Chew dish of rice cake, which mum only cooks once a year. And my sisters and I would cancel all appointments to rush home and relish our so-called "Family Cuisine". However, none of us has even tried our hands on whipping up this dish yet.

The Father and the Bride

2008-10-09T22:43:00.002+08:00

Phew, luckily there wasn't a digital shot of the Father, Groom & Bride all at the same time :P Perhaps, they were in the albums tucked away somewhere in the cupboard. During my era, we used films and had to wait patiently for the photographer to develop the pictures after the wedding and to painstakingly put them into albums. That would take nearly about a week. I can't remember where these digital shots came from. Maybe I scanned them the last time - yeah - using a scanner. Thank God for digital cameras !

One word of advice to couples who are going to take wedding pictures. 10 years down the road, the album goes into the cupboard, so spend wisely on your wedding pictures. I remembered the lady from the bridal studio was cajouling me to get another 20 over extra pictures which amounted a couple of hundreds of dollars. However, I thought to myself whose gonna see those pictures again after the first year of wedding - probably only me and Gavin and later on the kids. You know it's rather depressing to see how much weight I have put on over the years. And the kids kept on asking why they aren't in the group pictures. Thus, up to the cupboard it goes.

Pink Ribbon Walk

2008-10-04T23:56:00.000+08:00

Aly and I signed up for the ribbon all in a matter of an hour.

That's us looking so great in our pink Ts and sunnies!

The meeting point where Stamford Raffles stands. I'm sure he must be happy to see so many people there, at least can ogle at the numerous female participants.

It's a nice slow evening walk along the Singapore River, which we passed by Boat Quay and Clarke Quay and then going around the bend at Quayside before headling back to the Parliament House all within an hour. I thought the walk itself was rather short and we even continued walking towards Marina Square for dinner after a short break of ice-cream, Milo and raisin buns at end point. I guessed what makes it fun and less tiring was because we chatted non-stop along the way. We hope make this our yearly affair and get more of our colleagues to join us next year.

Almost A Perfect 10

2008-10-03T22:28:00.007+08:00

Boy! I can’t imagine I’m married for 10 years already!

I was one of those late bloomers, where most of my coursemates were already going steady in their boy-girl relationships in the tertiary years, yet I was a swinging bachelorette. I can’t bear the thought of crying till my eyes popped out, especially if I have to send my boyfriend off to NS (National Service aka army) and then missing them badly. I told myself, I’ll find someone when I start working.

I vividly remembered my ex-Poly Cell Leader, Johnny (He hates us calling him “Righteous Brother”) giving us advise to list down the criterias that we would like to see in our future life partners and to start praying for that special “someone” during our teens.

Me being in the “young and sweet nothing’ age, began to ask God for :

A Christian partner, so that we can communicate in the same channel and if we can’t, then can at least bring it up to God, who will be my mediator and judge…hehe.

Communication. Boy, his communication can’t be that bad, if he’s a Sales Executive, sure can have 2-way communications. Yah talking about sales, he used to joke that he stays 10 minutes away from Orchard Road. I thought WOW he must be staying around District 10, just 10 minutes walk away. Actually partly true that it takes about 10 minutes drive away, if we were to take the shortcut from Tanglin Road to go to Queenstown.

About 3 or 4 years older. But I think God could have heard me wrongly and gave me 3+4. But it’s good in a way too, as I’ll always look younger than him. And thus won’t get stupid comments that I brought my younger brother out for a movie.

It would be good if he has a car. As I’m being spoiled by dad for ferrying us around. By the way, we are both working part-time taxi drivers for our kids.

He must be able to help out with housework. Because I’m one lazy cow too. However, I got do my part okay. Mum used to nag at my sisters and me that unless we can guarantee that we marry a rich guy, if not, better learn to do some housework.

Job security. Nah….. went through quite a rough patch over the last few years. Even the bulls and boars of the financial markets came and went. What more could a marriage of 10 years escape such turbulent times.

Must like children and willing to "bear" 2 children with me. I had more than what I asked for - with Gavin being forced to actively particpate in the role of fathering - bear the children's nitty gritty needs last 2-3 years.

And the list goes on…..

To cut the story short, I met my husband at my former workplace and we got married about 3 years later ‘cos seeing him at work every other day seems like a long courting period and the rest is just like a movie … “1 man & 2 babies”.

And God answers all my prayers, especially the last few points right up till now. It takes years and many tears, to understand that God is not there to harm us, but He has the best plans for me and my family through moulding and refining us to be wiser and stronger. God works all things for the good of men.

The first 10 years of marriage had its ups and downs, in fact, every time when the both of us enters into a marital distress, it actually brings us into a deeper level, but it’s a choice of what we really want – a deepening of hurts or a deepening of relationships, which could improve if couples know what to expect and thus make their own choice.

The initial years of staying with my mother-father-and-sister-in-laws were another set of adjustments. Sometimes, I feel it was better actually, as we both tend to tone down our quarrels. We finally got our privacy, when they shifted out 7 years later, partly due to space constraints because of the 2 growing kids. However, staying alone also has it's weakness, we found it harder to control our tempers and arguments tend to fly in front of our kids.

Gavin and I went through some trying years in our 7th or 8th year (commonly known as the 7th year itch). Gavin was then a stayed home dad for about 2-3 years, in between some part-time jobs. Besides the job search/security, the children were also often factors of our quarrels. It had not been easy, especially for Gavin to let go of his ego and stay home with the objective of settling Joel, who is a difficult kid. He really puts in a lot of effort.

I really wanna thank Gavin, who in the last few years had been taking care of the house(work) and especially spending time with the kids. He ferries, bathes the kids and settles their dinner. And we began to see results from the father and son bonding. It would not be possible for me to concentrate on my heavy workload job as an events organizer, if not for that peace that I know that all will be well taken care of at home. Sometimes, I feel that I can trust my husband more with the kids alone during the weekends, than I trust myself, as my kids walks over me, knowing that I’m more lenient with them.

As we celebrated our 10th anniversary, we have both learnt to take things one at a time and we also got to understand each other better. Perhaps, we have aged too. One thing that I have learnt is not to put a high expectations on one other, including myself, but instead learning to put my trust and hope in God for His providence, faithfulness and love of knowing that He will always there for me.

And lastly for the KPOs – We celebrated our 10th Wedding Anniversary with the kids at IKEA cafe ..... how romantic can it be, huh? Hubby had requested for a new bible, as his was torn, which shows that he has been reading His Word. :) It's something that I’ve been praying most that he would grow deep in his walk with God.

And me, haven’t learnt my lesson well enough to ketok him a stone or flowers on such memorable occasion, but instead went for retail therapy a few days earlier and got myself a bag. I’m happy as long as he doesn’t complain that I’m buying another bag again. If he does, I’ll just ask him to pass him the receipt of my new bag lor!

Looking forward to next lap.

Formula One - Keep Your Eyes Open and Ears Shut

2008-09-29T23:01:00.009+08:00

McLaren Mercedes Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton of Britain

(AP Photo/Oliver Multhaup)

This weekend had been rather busy -- having to rush home just to catch the inaugural 2008 Formula One Singtel Singapore Grand Prix! Not really a F1 fan, but managed to catch a few races on cable TV only on Sundays, when we head down to mum's place.

All the hype and daily news reports leading to the actual race did make me feel excited. Besides ogling at the snapshots of handsome F1 drivers, like Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg, I'm also in awe of the illumintated skyline of Singapore - such a beautiful and spectacular sight.

Somehow, I felt proud of being a Singaporean, being a part of it, hosting the first night race, although exactly contributing to anything at all. I think it's just like how the Chinese nationals felt when they hosted the recent Beijing Olympics 2008.

Check out the Boston.Com website for more spectacular pictures!

The lighted Marina Bay Street Circuit of the Singapore Formula One Grand Prix
(REUTERS/Tim Chong)

The city skyline with the illuminated Marina Bay City
(AP Photo/Oliver Multhaup)

I wanted to bring the kids down to Cityhall to hear the actual roar of engines and to have a whiff of burnt rubber. However, the thoughts of snuggling up the sofa in the comfort of my own home and after that putting the kids to bed, without having to squeeze with the throngs of people were simply more enticing, especially when you have 2 young kids. Also, they would probably be complaining about the deafening noise.

Talking about the deafening noise. Although I wasn't there on site, but I felt abit deaf - YES - even from watching the race at home. I was blasting my TV while watching the final race on Sunday. When I finally managed to chase my kids to hop into bed at 9:30 pm (only after much assurance that Aunty Carol had taped the program on cable TV for them), I then plucked on my Sennheiser earphones and blasted them in my ears again. SHIOK!

But I totally agree that nothing beats being on site, soaking in the atmosphere and having the feeling of adrenaline kicking pumping from the heart to the brains. Next year perhaps, I'll try to get my hands on the single day tickets for the practice sessions. Anyone can help me babysit the kids from 25 to 27 September 2009?

Coming to the End of My Youth

2008-09-08T22:21:00.006+08:00

There's a Chinese saying that women in her 40's is like a rose. And youth to me (according to Contiki Tours) is between 18 - 35 years old. Sometimes, I really wonder what stage in life am I in now? Middle Age?

No prize for guessing how old am I?

When I was googling, I found out an interesting fact about Singapore's definition of YOUTH.
* chng * chng * chng*

It's between 15-30!

Taken from National Youth Council Singapore website.

But as compared to my Australian and Hong Konger friends,
I'm considered quite lucky to a Singaporean and thus more "youthful" :P

Oh? It's Val's Birthday Today!

2008-09-07T22:31:00.009+08:00

As it was raining that Saturday, dad and mum could not rollerblade, so they invited their gang -Uncle Joe & Aunty Peng to play Nintendo Wii at home. Carol reported that while playing into the wee hours of the morning, dad was suudenly reminded of my birthday, courtesy from Nintendo Wii, of course.

Out of curiosity, I actually went and turn it on to find out for myself. This is what it reads:

Yah, instead got reminded to exercise again ... urgh! Gee but seriously, I must thank Nintendo Wii for such great service, man - for Dad gave me (& all) a birthday treat at Pu Tien Restaurant at Kitchener Rd!

Happy Teacher's Day

2008-09-02T23:19:00.003+08:00

Joel's drawing is a good reminder that we should not only thank the teachers, but also the administrators and helpers - especially the aunties - who prepare food, clean up the school and bathe the kids!

Why Is It Called The Singapore Flyer?

2008-09-01T00:03:00.002+08:00

It was Teachers' Day, thus the childcare centre was closed. So we bought the kiddos to the Singapore Flyer on discounted tickets, which I had earlier purchased from the company's union.

And the kiddos asked the toughest question: Why is it called the Singapore Flyer? (Mummy thinking very hard and at the same time wondering why don't they ask their Daddy instead of me. My middle name is not Google, ok?) Mummy trying to act cool and gave them the most logical answer that I could think of. "It is because it makes you feel as if you are flying in the air and you will be able to see the view of Singapore, especially when you reach the top." Let me know if you have a better answer. Anyway with kids, as long you give them an answer, can already!

2008 Formula One Singapore Grand Prix

The Suntec area

Erh... what's the actual name of the place with the floating platform, where we just had our National Day Parade? Marina Padang?

Singapore's Integrated Resort (IR) - Marina Bay Sands

The aerial view of the Singapore Flyer venue ... looks like a heart!

Drawing by Joel.
Did you also recognise the Merlion, Benjamin Sheares Bridge, Singapore Grand Prix race track and the Duck Tour boat?

Ah Ma's Water Baptism

2008-08-23T23:17:00.011+08:00

I'm so happy to witness Ah Ma's water baptism on 23 August 2008 at East Coast Beach at the ripe old age of 75. Ah Ma's testimony was simple - because most of my daughters are Christians.

Acts 16:31 - Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you shall be saved, you and your household.

At first, Ah Ma was hoping to be excused going into the water. However, when the Pastor encouraged her to get her herself all wet. The water baptism is a symbolic burial, by which the new Christian publicly declares they have died, and are now beginning a new life, in Christ. The Greek for the word ‘baptizo’ means to immerse, plunge, dip, or bury in water. It excludes “sprinkling”, unless really sick.

All of a sudden, she whipped out her bag of clothings,
2 sets of towels and even a pair of slippers ..... hmm very well-prepared. All she needs is a little encouragement.

Got to know that it's Ah Ma's first time in the sea.

Wah, so cold & wet!

GOOD!
"A good dip" or was it "good gal"?

The pom pom supporters!

Jas, Ah Ma, Carol & me heading back to home.

Geez... Thanks and No Thanks!

2008-08-19T22:15:00.005+08:00

Recently, I read a very amusing email to someone entitled "Thank you!". At first, the writer thanked the person for his great help with THANK YOU in caps somemore and later goes on to mentioned that there are still some outstanding job duties that needs to be completed during the remaining time that he has with us. The note then ended with a "PS" requesting for his notification of the off days that he will be clearing.

Erh... Is that a THANK YOU note? My consolation is at least there is A THANK YOU NOTE, which is better than none, right? Call me an optimistic! Haha

Suddenly, it just dawns on me when is the last time, I sincerely penned a handwritten thank you card to someone. Although, I do that everyday on email, thanking my speakers for the forms and papers that I received from them. And often at the end of each event, we received thank you notes from grateful organisers and that lifts our spirits. Not that I'm a sucker for compliments, but a sincere and well-thought-out note, makes me feel being valued and appreciated. Thank you notes are very personal and they take time and thought to write, and thus makes me feel special.

I have 2 storage boxes; one containing blank cards for sending out and another for greeting cards received. And of course, this is before email became popular. Over these few years, the cards received are dwindling, except for the ones sent by my insurance agents.

I remembered during my courting years, I actually forced Gavin to buy me cards instead of pressies for celebrative occassions. Anyway, that was just an excuse for delaying his purchase of gifts, which I rather choose my own. At first, there was " To Val" .....blah blah blah (words from the card) and then signed of with "Love, Gavin". I gave him a hard time and forced him to write at least a 3-liner blessings/greetings on the spot. Boy, that was like squeezing brain juice out from a man of few words. And after marriage, it's "Huh? No need lah? Already 'lao fu lao qi'. " Occasionally, I would bring out those few cards that he gave me and read them aloud. It gave both us goosebumps! Yikes!

I guessed if I really like receiving cards than I should start first by sending them.

It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35)

If we sow sparingly we will reap sparingly; and if we sow bountifully we will reap bountifully (2 Cor. 9:6).

We must sow as we have purposed in our hearts, not grudgingly or of necessity because God loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7).

Lastly, I must try to remind myself that I need to put a big full stop and purely thank my eldest son, Bryan for helping me put the dishes away in the sink after dinner. Often I ended with BY THE WAY, can you also please help me throw the rubbish in the chute outside, which is like 20 meters away from our door :P Suddenly, it's like my thanks becomes a command! And Bryan would give me that face and phrase "Why me, again?"

Facing the Brick Walls

2008-08-12T23:19:00.005+08:00

Recently, I was recommended this book "The Last Lecture" by Randy Pausch by my sister Caroline. It is based on his talk which was modelled after an ongoing series of lectures to an consider their demise and to talk on what matters to most of them. However, the author didn't have to imagine as if his last, as it is truly his last, as he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He just died on 25 July 2008. The lecture he gave wasn't really about dying but about the importance of overcoming obstacles and of enabling of dreams.

His last lecture on "Achieving Your Childhood Dreams" can be found on YouTube. Here, I have linked his short 10 minutes overview and his full 1 hour 20 mins long lecture.

I have watched the video clips and am almost finishing the last bit of the book. It has been inspirational and yet humourous. I was reading it on the bus journey and I couldn't help nodding my head to some of his sharings, which are very real and I can even identify with some of them. Occasionally, I was smiling like an idiot to myself that all these are so very true -- of what life has installed for us and what would be our response. Do we want to walk a life of victory or simply dwell in our own circumstance?

Below are just 2 very practical lessons that I've picked up from the book.

When you are screwing up and nobody tells you anything to you anymore, that means they have given up on you.
When you see yourself doing something badly and nobody is bothering to tell you any more, that's a bad place to be. You may not want to hear it, but your critics are often the ones telling you that they still love you and care for you and want to make you better.

The brick walls are there to stop the people who don't want it badly enough.
Brick walls are there for a reason. They give us a chance to show how badly we want something.

There are plenty of other interesting life lessons, and I strongly recommend this book to you.

Red & White

2008-08-09T22:58:00.009+08:00

Here are the lucky numbers for your National Day Draw.

6 Kiddos doing their after lunch "business".
L-R: Clarissa, Joshua, Joel, Bryan, Caleb & Shayna
Excluding: Aaron & Asher (twins) who are at their Ah Ma's house.
So, all in all there are 8 kids, and soon they can form their own table.

The 5 Beautiful Char Bors
L-R: Val Hea, Gina, Angela, Val Yeo & Alvena

4 Jumping Jacks & Jane.
Actually, couldn't get a shot of the 4 guys: Erik, Gavin, Jacob & Patrick.

The 2 August Birthday gals who just turned 35
Gina & Angela receiving their birthday angbaos.

And finally, 1 group shoot, which took us nearly 20 minutes to gather.

Hi, I'm Hitler.

2008-08-04T23:21:00.003+08:00

I'm glad that the peak period, which I dreaded most is finally over. Besides the stress, it's having been released from brooding over what and how to say politically sweet nothings that is pleasing to people's ears! My colleagues advised me to simply nod my head in agreement, or choose to ignore their comments. However, some sarcastic remarks and actions were simply to annoying to be ignored.

The last 2 months was having like knots in my blood vessels. Many a times, I felt as if there was not enough oxygen going up my brains, and that I might get a stroke anytime if I continue to work on that project. I told myself, I'm not so noble to sacrifice myself yet.

First, I was being teased that my style to that of Hitler -- a dictator. But we are dealing with 80 over speakers who needs to be constantly reminded and "threatened" occasionally to submit their papers on time for my onward forwarding to the chairpersons for their perusal and comments; and for the preparation of the conference materials.

Later, I was being thanked in an email note to all my dept staff that this feat would not had been impossible for us to pull if not for the hard work of our Events Team, and especially to me, who wielded the bell and the stick! Actually, I wanted to reply to her email that I also had carrots in my one tonne handbag, just in case the stick doesn't work!

OH! SHUT UP, VAL!

But that's really tough for me. I tend to say what I'm thinking and what I believe, and have come across to some people as troublemaker.

It sometimes makes me wonder what an ideal worker should be like? Should I nod my head with agreement with whatever and anything? Or should I have a golden mouth mentality that opens for 10 minutes a day (during lunch for food perhaps) or just sits at meeting to take down notes and not voice any opinions, concerns, ideas or suggestions.

Do you know why car with lesser mileage chalked up are being valued higher, cos it is hardly ever being used - as good as new. Maybe I should not overwork my brains, so that if I ever were to change job, I can tell my new employer that I have been preserving my brains for the new job!

Busy Feasting

2008-08-02T21:59:00.002+08:00

It has been such a busy period for the month of July with big events being packed back-to-back. At one stage, I was in correspondence with about 140 speakers and chairpersons from the 3 events, in which I was anchoring. No matter how big or how small the event is, it's still the same amount of work. It makes no difference catering for 50 pax or 100 pax. However, organising bigger event is more gratifying -- for the same amount of work, it reaps more results such as more participants and more papers.

Thank goodness, there are 5 interns (Ada, Karita & Mike from Chinese University of Hong Kong; Jim & Peter from University of British Columbia, Canada) and a new colleague, Sharon with us. We had lots of fun and how can I forget the feasting trips to Sakae Sushi, Cafe Les Amis, MacDonalds, Coffee Beans and the numerous events dinner. No wonder I put on 4 kg during the recent events peak period!

McDonalds @ Serene Centre
L-R: Ada, Karita, Peter, Jim, Mike, Henry & Alyson

"Dodo Bird" Peter & "Mentos Monster" Jim

"Miss Non-spicy" Karita & "Miss Pure"Ada

Lunch at Cafe Le Amis @ the Singapore Botanical Gardens

Henry & Yati, who was trying to pry open the durian that they picked from the garden.

A very miserable durian!

Mike bought us a THANK YOU cake.

"Mikey" Mike, who really eats a lot, yet maintains his slimness.

Conference Dinner at Long Beach @ Dempsey

SuperDeeDuper Busy Lately

2008-06-30T10:01:00.000+08:00

Out of Office Reply

2008-06-26T23:27:00.007+08:00

I do not know if I should thank the whoever person who created emails/internet. Life has been more busy than before. Once enter into office, the routine is to check emails, phone mails, in-tray, faxes, not forgetting sometimes sms, personal emails and facebook later, if I can catch a breather.

Somehow, living in this modern world is stressful. The speed of communication is faster and faster. Sometimes, I would get an immediate reply, when I hit the SEND button. And I even knew of a few people whom I can expect an immediate reply in the next 10 minutes or so.

If a phone call has to be answered within 3 rings (that's what they taught), thus I wonder what would be the so called "Best Practice" criteria to replying emails? I once heard someone mentioned that it's 3 days at max for emails, which is by the way, that's that person's "standard" lor. I nearly fainted!!!! I might as well send by snail mail. By the way, snail mail in Singapore only takes a day hor!

Often we expect a swift response to our reply, but we don't even bother do it for others. Thus, I told myself, if I will have to try to clear and respond to most of the before-3-pm-cut-off emails within the day. Weekends are exempted of course!

Talking about responding to emails, sometimes, I really wonder if the "Out-Of-Office (OOO)" notification message is really necessary? Although, one day late in responding to email won't kill/die, but if it's a pre-plan or leave that are longer than 2 days, I think it's an e-etiquette to keep others inform. Simply, it just meant an excuse to cover up for the delay.

And often when I put it up, suay suay my sisters have to choose that day to email me only to find out that I'm on leave again. But there many types of leave annual leave, medical leave, child sick leave, training leave and time off. But seriously, I burn nights and weekends to accumulate time off leh!

Here are some funny 'OOO' automatic email replies (excerpted from one of those trashy emails):

I am currently out of the office at a job interview and will reply to you if I fail to get the position. Please be prepared for my mood.
You are receiving this automatic notification because I am out of the office. If I was in, chances are you wouldn't have received anything at all.
Sorry to have missed you, but I'm at the doctor's having my brain and heart removed so I can be promoted to our management team.
I will be unable to delete all the emails you send me until I return from vacation. Please be patient, and your mail will be deleted in the order it was received.
Thank you for your email. Your credit card has been charged $5.99 for the first 10 words and $1.99 for each additional word in your message.
The email server is unable to verify your server connection. Your message has not been delivered. Please restart your computer and try sending again. (The beauty of this is that when you return, you can see who did this over and over and over.)
Thank you for your message, which has been added to a queuing system. You are currently in 395th place, and can expect to receive a reply in approximately 19 weeks.
Hi, I'm thinking about what you've just sent me. Please wait by your PC for my response.
I've run away to join a different circus.
I will be out of the office for the next two weeks for medical reasons. When I return, please refer to me as 'Vincent' instead of Valerie.

Here's the final one -- my ultimate and real life encounter, which left me dumbfounded for days!!!!

I'm currently away. For urgent matters, please call me on my mobile XXXX XXXX.

First of all, one is not indispensable in any workplace. Secondly, PLEASE don't leave your personal mobile number and/or redirect it to your partner's personal mobile number in the "OOO" auto reply message, as there is such function called "CALL FORWARDING" in most, in fact all office phones. You never know who might be calling you in the middle of the night, you know? When I was young, my mum always tell me not to give especially our personal (house) telephone number away, unless we know the person well.

I WON !

2008-06-24T15:44:00.006+08:00

Thank you miss ah for the meal. Cheap cheap only!
Perhaps, the next time the bet shall be a MACbook Air instead of MACDonalds.

Big Mac & Coke always cheer us up.

It's a SONY!

2008-06-13T22:58:00.006+08:00

Finally, I managed to lay my hands on my white SONY VAIO notebook after 45 minutes of queuing for payment. But, it's all worth it although my legs are almost giving way after a 2-day workshop event.

I eventually chose SONY VAIO, because of it's specifications and more importantly that it comes equipped with a number of great their original software programs to edit videos, photos and music. And the freebies are really very attractive, especially with the ladies -- it comes with a matching white carrying case and mouse :) hehe, a free upgrade to 3GB RAM and 4GB thumbdrive.

Come to think of it, I am not a recent SONY convert, but a great fan! Just that the pocket finds it hard to sustain the brand loyalty.

My SONY buys over the last few years:
SONY 29" Trinitron CRT TV (almost 10 years - still very reliable)
SONY CLIE SJ30 PDA (2003 - bought 2nd hand from Y-Kit and it was later stolen a year later)
SONY CLIE PEG-TH55 PDA (2004 - the last of SONY's PDA marketed outside Japan -- discontinued shortly after I purchased it)
SONY Mircro Hifi System (2007 - from dad - it's was a freebie that's comes with his new TV)
SONY T200 Camera (2008 - March)
SONY DPP-FP 60 Picture Station (2008 - a freebie from the camera purchase)
SONY VAIO CR 353 Notebook (2008 - June)

My pre-loved CANON camera and ACER laptop lasted me for 3 years and both chose to die almost the same time. Sometimes, I wonder why can't they spread it out by taking turns - one year each? Hopefully, these SONY ones will last me for a longer period.

With this recent purchase, I have to remind myself to be more frugal and eat bread for the next few months probably! OUCH! :P

Tough Choice - But Not Anymore

2008-06-12T23:38:00.010+08:00

After 2 weeks of homework and revision, finally it’s the big day that I'm waiting for – The PC Show 2008, which is being held at Suntec – so exciting!

My Acer laptop of more than 3 years have been showing me its crankiness lately, and I have praying hard that it will at least last me for another 3 weeks, before I kick its butt.

So of I went happily, knowing what the specifications that I should be looking out for. It has to be at least a Intel Core 2 Duo processor (2.10 GHz), 250 HDD, 2 GB DDR2 RAM, 13.3” or 14.1” around 2 kg and with the price range of $1,500 - $1,800 and so forth. Not forgetting to check the freebies gifts and credit card promotion, as to which card got more free gifts or lucky draw chances. I have even streamlined to the final 3 brands. All I need is to just go to the booth and have a feel of the keypad and the total outlook of the laptop. You know us gals lah, we are very particular with colour, style and design… hehe

I thought I would be able to get something today, as I was pretty sure that I am capable of that. However, once I reached there, the kiasu Singaporean mentality began to swallowing me up. For 2 solid hours, I was busy collecting brochures and speaking with the representatives from Acer, Asus, Compaq, Dell, Fujitsu, HP, Lenovo, LG, NEC Sony and Toshiba. I didn’t even have the time to proceed to level 6.

I was totally swamped with information. The more I see, the more I’m confused. I began to which exhibiter is crowded, as crowdedness means it’s probably better. Then I did a quick swipe of the hall with my eyes of what are the popular purchases being made, judging from the brand of the paper bags that they were carrying. Guess what? I saw a lot of people carrying a black paper bag with a 4-letter word in white.

By 9:30 pm (half an hour past the closing time), my legs were almost giving way and my stomach was growling. So, I decided to walk to McDonalds to grab a burger and also one for Gavin to thank him for babysitting the kids. (Guys, are so easy to pleased!) The walk through Suntec shopping centre is another WOW WOW – WINDOW SHOPPING again! I only managed to reach McDonalds half an hour later.

Finally, I reached home at 10:45 pm and woke Gavin up for supper. Did more revisions of the brochures. And as I was explaining to Gavin, it had also helped me narrowed down my own choices. I swear the 4-letter word has been ringing in my ears and appearing before my eyes every now and then. It has made me wonder what’s so good about it and it made me scrutinized the specifications in the brochures again. I think I have made my choice liao!

Young Mozart Look-alike

2008-06-07T23:50:00.003+08:00

Took the kids to ‘Mozart: A Child Prodigy’ - an interactive exhibiton at the National Museum today as a holiday treat during the June vacation. There are 11 themed sections in the gallery for the children to explore and compare the differences and similarities of the everyday living with young Mozart’s, back in the 18th Century.

That 2 zebras horsing around.

Bryan and Joel got to put on moles, wigs and costumes from the 18th century. The staff there was telling us that if a mole was drawn on the cheek, just right below the eyes, it signifies authority. In fact, I enjoyed this section the most - more than the kids. They insisted on removing their moles and moustache at the washroom, before heading back home, as we took the public transport.

Hehe .. I was slim enough to fit into a kid's dress! The gown is supposed to end at the ankle, but mine ends at the calf instead. Also, I didn't managed to zip the back of my dress :P

The boys had their hands on writing with quill and ink, playing the ancient game spinning tops, of mixing herbal remedies and making tooth powder for the brushing of teeth. They also got to make paper wigs.

same-same / sama-sama
T-shirts and even drawings

Left the car home for the day, as parking within CBD on a Saturday morning is expensive. However, we were caught in the rain.

After spending the money and 3 hours at the Museum, I asked the kids if they have enjoyed themselves. And ultimately what they enjoyed were the sumptous breakfast at the Kopitiam at The Plaza by the Park, the double decker bus rides and walking in the rain!

Feeling Constipated

2008-06-04T18:53:00.007+08:00

Aly ah,

How about I give you a swift kick in your ass

and you can kick mine after that!

Americanized Goose

2008-06-03T22:14:00.002+08:00

As usual, I got no idea what is the Chinese poem that Joel is reciting, except that it's something about "goose".

I swear, I did not feed him a sack of potatoes.
He hates potates, except for french fries.
Hmm... perhaps that's the reason why -- the American by-product of potatoes!!!

Aunty Nana, can you please provide me with the text and the translation. Kam siah!

Happy Birthday, Dad!

2008-06-01T23:39:00.011+08:00

Seriously, I still can't imagine that dad has been upgraded to "Senior Citizen" title. He turn 61 this year, but he sure doesn't look like one. It was overheard at my wedding that my father actually looks younger than my husband. And Dad's energy and stamina is alot better than mine anytime, especially on Wii Sports.

My mother-in-law was pretty excited when she hit her 60s, as she finally got her Senior Citizen bus card, which entitles her to the various benefits. But I think the joy is definitely more than that. Hitting 60s marks another chapter of their lives, where life's focus are no longer over bread and butter, but finding time for themselves -- to do the things that they wanted to do when they are young, but have sacrificed it for the sake of the family.

In relation to the sensitive topic on age. Recently, I got to know that the age range for youth is between 18-35 years. Yikes! I'm almost reaching the end of my youth... sob sob. So what do you call the next classification (36-59) huh?

We had a pre-celebration of 727 durian cake bought from Kovan (near Upper Serangoon Road). Experience has taught us to eat birthday cakes 2-3 hours before dinner, as most of us are probably very full after dinner. The cake is really good, I must say.

So paiseh (shy) to have Dad treat us to dinner at Ming Jiang at the Goodwood Park Hotel. We wanted to treat him but he is even more excited about his birthday bash that he pre-booked it himself more than 5 days ago, before we could make any plans. Luckily, there is still Father’s Day celebration just around the corner.

Geez, I think I must have eaten a lot to balloon to this size in this picture. I think we must stop ordering that “sharky” soup, as Jas and Cavin have successfully abstain from it for years and Carol is starting it too. Blame it on Joel, as Dad is always ordering that soup because of him. And Jas, will you please stand in front of me the next time!

It Runs In The Family

2008-05-29T21:11:00.005+08:00

It all started with Bryan when he was helping out with my sister, Jasmine for a photoshoot for the kids line of Dive Junkie T-Shirts back in 2005. My sister noticed that his elbows look a bit funny.

And we forgot all about it until recently that over dinner the other day at mum's place. My sis noticed that Joel's arms look familiar too. So we started tracing back to our genes. We began scrutinizing Gavin's arms and suddenly it began to dawn on me that I may be the culprit. And guess what - it's really me!

So of course, since the kids got that from me, I'm just curious if that's genetic. So I started tracing back to my parents, starting with my mum, but her arms look fine. We called out to Dad who was surfing the internet to come out from his entertainment room to show us his arms. He must be wondering, these siao char bors must be guessing if an old man like him, still has muscles or not.

Spot on!!! Dad injured his left arm when he was young, but I never know that it will get passed down like that.

A Tai-Tai's Day Out

2008-05-28T11:07:00.002+08:00

It has become a twice yearly ritual that my gal friends and I would take a day off just to give ourselves a well-deserved break, especially away from the kids.

We met for breakfast at Funan's MacDonalds. Yeah, it's slightly more high-class that the kopitiam, especially when the weather is so hot. So we had a groups of aunties (ok, excluding Nana) sipping teas, eating burgers and bitching about the weather, politics (at work), economics (at the supermarket), finance (where has got the best best sale) and of course of about the struggles within our families. Talking it out keeps our sanity in place.

After feeding our stomach, we adjorned to feed the fish. We shared a cab to the ulu Singapore Flyer, cos we haven't figure out where to take the shuttle service from City Hall. Boy, we were all so excited like little girls giggling about having our our feet kissed by the Doctor Fish.

The Kenko Reflexology at the Singapore Flyer is the only branch that provides fish spa. I find the ambience pretty soothing and the frangrance from the aromatic oil simply refreshing. It's just that the location is pretty far out.

It was rather scary imagining the feeling of having so many Doctor Fish nibbling the dead skin on my feet. However, it wasn't as ticklish as I thought, but it feels like the zaps of electric currents -- just like the milder tinkling sensation of blood flowing back to the legs when we experienced numbness for sitting cross-leg on the floor for too long.

We had 30 minutes of fish spa and 10 minutes of shoulder massage at the promotional rate of $38. And the newly mummies couldn't resist for a longer massage and they definitely deserved that. The excuse -- belated Mother's Day Treat for themselves. 10-minutes is more of a torture for me than shiok, I'm scared of tickles :P

Hehe... does Gina's new hairdo looks like one of the court ladies from the Korean drama - Da Chang Jin (Jewel in The Palace)? hahaha

And all that laughing and giggling is making us thirsty. And surely the water from the pond reminded our thirst even more. We later joined with the pregnant Angela at Suntec more makansutra and more sharing. Women simply talk non-stop and the few hours spent together always seems so short. And as the clock striked 4:30 pm, we hugged each other and said goodbyes (our gathering farewell routine) before returning back to reality. Farewell my ladies... till we meet again (which is probably in 3 weeks times, when Judy returns from China).

Eat With Your Family Day

2008-05-23T22:20:00.003+08:00

Joel's school organised a breakfast gathering at the Ghim Moh Kopitiam this morning in conjunction with "Eat With Your Family Day".

The kopitiam couldn't cope with the large crowd, so we didn't manage to have our favourite half-boiled eggs. However, we have a yummy breakfast of sandwiches, soya bean milk and tea.

Do Be Do Be Do

2008-05-21T17:12:00.000+08:00

On Being TRANSPARENT

2008-05-20T19:49:00.004+08:00

A Blessed Mother's Day

2008-05-11T23:38:00.028+08:00

Recently, there was a Mother’s Day feature on the Sunday Times which reported that HR experts estimate that the economic worth of a stay-at-home mums would be paid $23,000 a month considered all the jobs that she performs.
Executive housekeeper (5hrs) $280

Childcare teacher (5hrs) $193

Chef (3hrs) $170

Personal Assistant (2hrs) $ 90

Driver (2hrs) $ 73

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

Monthly pay $ 22,568

Yearly payout $293,384 (inclusive of 13th month bonus )

Did you hear my eyes go “ka-ching, ka-ching, ka-ching” like the cash register. I didn’t know a housewife value was rated that high. Hmm... probably higher than my boss’s pay…hehe! No wonder, I’m felt like the BOSS at home!

A housewife commented that she enjoys her work and don’t do it for money. (Erh, no comments.) Several others say that their roles are too important to be quantified. We can estimate how much the jobs might pay, but mothers are also involved in deep emotional bonds and life lessons which will stay with their children and all their lives.

That’s why Mother’s Day is always more celebrated than Father’s Day. However, Mother’s Day is not only for mothers with kids, but also a day to commemorate those who are married, but have yet had any kids. However, being a wife is like a mother to the super “big kid” at home too… you know what I mean.

I remember reading from Psalms 31:10-30 which describes the noble characteristics of a wife (and mother). Hi ladies, here’s a glimpse of married life. And guys, now you know what sort of women to look for, huh?

10 A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.
11 Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value.
12 She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
13 She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar.
15 She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls.
16 She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17 She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.
18 She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night.
19 In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
20 She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. 21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
22 She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes.
25 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
26 She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
27 She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
29 "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

And gee, I always thought being a wife was challenging, but being a mother is demanding. It’s really a moulding and refining process. I think I learnt more from the children, than the other way around. And I have discovered that over the years , I have become stronger because of the kids.

COURAGE – to catch the flying cockroaches, bees, beetles and lizards.
CREATIVITINESS – To come up with impromptu games during long boring car rides
JOY – Laughing at my own self when the kids imitate my actions and use my phrases.
PATIENCE – To wait for them to them to wear their own socks and buckle their shoes.
PEACE – Knowing that it’s okay to mop the floor once a week, although the kids are crawling all over the place.
PERSERVERANCE – To continue to carrying them, although I felt my arms are giving way soon.
PERSUASIVENESS – In getting the kiddos to eat their greens
SELF CONTROL – To stop pulling my hairs out, when they kids are disobedient
STRENGTH – To wake up many times a night when the kids are having a fever.
TRUST - That they will not break the glass ornaments at shopping centres.
WISDOM – To know what’s sort of mischief is up their sleeves.

Although I didn't have the chance to pursue my degrees, but my kids confer me the title
"Expert in Anything & Whatever" in the following displines:

Architecture & Design – constructing a make-believe house from huge carton boxes.
Arts – Doodling on whatever pictures they request of us.
Business – Setting up of our own very "Sianz & Siong" supermarket in the living hall.

Computing – Setting up of their video game consoles.
Dentistry – Extraction of their teeth using my fingers.
Engineering – Understanding the instruction manual and assembling their toys.
Humanities – Reading and role-playing stories to them.
Medicine – Self medication or administration of medicine when they are sick or hurt.
Music – Karaoke singing to the song "Mouse Love rice"
Law – Warning them to put on their seat belts, if not police will catch.
Life Science – Growing sunflower from seeds
Science – Mixing soap with water to make bubbles.

Boys, thank you for making me a mum!

Bryan & Joel

and my eldest kid

Havoc Mummies

2008-05-10T23:55:00.011+08:00

We had a maternal relatives gathering at Amara Hotel for buffet to celebrate Mother's Day today. It's an annual affair, beside Christmas and Chinese New Year gatherings.

As usual Dad, would be the organiser and he would source for a makan venue and mum would assist him in the headcount. Hmm... now I know where I got my events genes - from Dad!

We had quite a good turn out of about 25 and 5 kids. Dinner was a spread of international buffet to feed the hungry growing teens in our midst. And we had fun table-hopping catching up with one another. However, the finale was when Dad carjoled all the mummies to go for the free drinks, which comes with the Mother's Day promotion at the lounge at the other end of the lobby. And they also had belly dance performance too.

Thought it was quite a funny scene to see a 3-generation of 14 ladies ranging from the age group of 20s to 80s hanging out a lounge and making so much noise! As we walked in, the lounge patrons were staring at us, especially at my 3 elderly folks. Most of us had fruit juices, while Ah Ma and gang had plain water. As usual the younger ones would prefer some alcoholic drinks, however, MeiMei was cornered by my aunties to just order juices. Haha! Not much of a choice, when you are out with people from another generation!

Just in case you are wondering where are the guys. Our spies Jake & MeiMei reported that they were starting to feel restless hanging around and babysitting the kids, while waiting for us ladies to finish off our drinks.

Happy Mother's Day!

Pig & Hen Debate

2008-05-01T23:04:00.002+08:00

There's a difference between interest and commitment. When you are interested in doing something, you do it only when circumstances permit. When you're committed to something, you accept no excuses, only results.
- Art Turock, Getting Physical (Doubleday)

One morning, a debate broke out in a farm. The debate was raised between a hen and a pig. The topic of the debate is "Involvement is equal to Commitment". The hen argued, "if someone is willing to get involved, that means he is ready to commit." The pig said, " No, I don’t think so. Getting involved is far from ready to commit."

As they were arguing and it seems no one could totally convince the others, they heard the voice of the farmer’s wife. "Honey, what would you like for you breakfast? Ham or Egg?" The farmer replied, "I prefer ham."

Then the pig told the hen, "You see, when you laid an egg, you are involved in the breakfast. But we are committed to the breakfast when we are eaten as ham."

Where Am I?

2008-04-30T23:49:00.004+08:00

Pretty confused these few days! I couldn't even figure out if it's Wednesday, Thursday or Friday today! It definitely looks like Friday today because of the Labour Day holiday on 1 May tomorrow.

I've got 4 events projects concurrently going on and in each project, and liaising with an average of 20-25 speakers or so is no joke. It's not the physical work that is stressful, but it's really the not knowing what's ahead and what is to come that is causing me much stress -- couldn't find any more words to describe that feeling. And I just hope that some people will not raise unnecessary stupid questions/ideas that kill brain cells. Sometimes, I wish they could at least try to switch ON and let the circuit run in their brains abit. If everyone use just 5% of their brains, then the world will be a better place for you and for me and the entire human race. (now join me in singing to the song "Heal the World" by Michael Jackson.)

I prayed that God will help me to increase my brain storage and processing speed and also to get 7-11 to open an outlet within my campus, so that I can purchase a cup of Slurpee anytime and experience "brain freeze", just in case it gets overheated.

Ben & Jerry's Free Ice-cream Day

2008-04-29T23:09:00.002+08:00

It's my second year of queueing for the Ben & Jerry's strawberry cheesecake ice-cream at the outlet in Raffles City!

It didn't take us long to figure out where exactly was the end of the snaking queue, which was lined with working adults and students. How could I forget that Singapore is famous for queueing! The queue was long, yet fast. Anyway, it's all worth it! It's definitely one of those days (other than the year-end bonus payout day) that I've been straining my neck and looking forward to!

However, I'm not sure if the ice-cream servers are just excited as me! I do really pitied the young gals bending their backs and scooping out the hard frozen ice-cream. It's really a back-and-arm breaking job! I can imagine all of them will be groaning in pain and plastering ko-yok on their bodies! :P And sorry, if I'm too engrossed eating my ice-cream and forgot to thank you gals earlier.

Barina's Missing - Missing Barina

2008-04-28T22:48:00.021+08:00

The office was extremely cold and dim this morning. Rina’s door was closed and the physical day light that shines out from her room was missing. Although the radio was on, but the silence was somehow getting louder and louder. We cracked a few jokes, but Rina’s asthmatic laughter wasn’t there to complement it. It is not one of those typical Monday blues, but the reality of Rina's departure finally sank in today. She is not on time off, leave or mc, but she is physically not working here anymore.

Last Friday, was Rina’s last day. When we had lunch at the Botanical Gardens, but the atmosphere was a bit unnatural, as if we were trying hard to avoid something. The most unbearable time was the final minutes to 6 o’clock. I promised to make her cry, but joined her instead when we hugged each other, just before she left. She is more than a colleague to me, but a friend. It is with reluctance that I have to let her go, but I still give her my blessings, as this would be the best for her.

Although the two and a half years that we spent together may be short, but thanks to the many events that ARI had, that we spent many hours of communicating, getting to know one another and of course bitching around, while mending the secretariat desk, hanging out together at events dinner and working during the weekends.

With so much time spend together, we shared the same radio frequency and often come into the office dressing in the same colour combinations, nearly the same hairstyle (until recently); and had similiar likings for URS shoes, Coffee Beans Ice Blended Coffee and recently makan (which explains my weight gain). Eventually, their love of food has rubbed on me. (By the way, Rina's taste buds are expensive!) She is simply fantastic with food, always trying out new restaurants and thus able to recommend many alternative event dinner venues. We knew each other's favourite colours, taste buds, special anniversaries and even families members. We even have the same hairdresser! We started doing things together, such as blogging, attending courses, going to pee at the same time (often competing over the 2 cubicles at the office) and the most rediculous thing would be having our periods (dai yi ma) around the same time - I liken that to Tsumami warnings.

I really wonder the reason why we are called – THE EVENTS TEAM. I don’t think the main reason is the complimentary sort, about having being associated with the great teamwork kind. But more likely that it is easier to call for the 3 of us at one go, rather than for Rina, Aly & Val individually … hehe. Sometimes, when they call for one person, they got 3 responses - in echos. Yeah, and we made a lot of noise together too.

Sometimes, the researchers are confused, who is the main person that they should go to for events. Actually, it is to Rina first, as she is the senior in terms of position. However, we do not have a very clear and deep line that was drawn between the 3 of us. We respected of each other for who we are and tapping on each other strengths and helping out on each other's weakness. Hehe...they knew how I hated writing "very polite emails" and I'll take more than an hour just to do that, and both will kindly help me with the vetting or even drafting, as it’s a breeze for them. Another example - Aly and I are very particular (but most of the time paranoid) about layout and formatting and my poor supervisor always kanna lashing from the both of us, before we took over her event program and changed it completely, until she cannot recognize it.

We recognized that praises is not enough to maintain a relationship, but being able to take criticisms with the thought of improving oneself and spurring each other to excel in our work. That's why I think we made a name for ourselves during the last 2 years and is known as the THE EVENTS TEAM. However, things will never be the same again - without Rina. It's that synergy – that unspoken thought – that spirit of giving – that “automatic” pro-activeness. I remembered during my trying period last year of picking up driving again to be my kid's chauffeur - morning, noon & night, after more than 12 years of absence of driving. Before I could even open my mouth, they were already offering their help, which I greatly appreciate.

All I wanna say is “Thank you, RINA for being you. And all the best in your endeavoures.”

Fun with Genetics

2008-04-27T14:58:00.002+08:00

Recently, I've signed Bryan up for Mindchamps, to help him pick up some learning technics and most of all the right attitude to learning, cos life is all about - LEARN, UNLEARN & RE-LEARN.

Every week, we need to do a home-based project together. And last week, we had to do an activity called CROSSING ANIMALS, which is to encourage the child to apply his/her imagination to create a new animal by crossing 2 animals. (Eg. duck + cheetah = ducktah)

I especially like the 2 new creations from the Savage Chickens

snail + alligator = SNAILIGATOR

crab + rabbits = CRABBITS .... "They were sure to pinch your buns!"

Getting Organised for the Peak Period

2008-04-26T15:24:00.001+08:00

I think I should also start making some space for my recent chio-bu studio make-over mugshot (to constantly remind myself to stay poised and ladylike, and to always keep my cool), my kiddos pixs (just in case, I missed them during one of those overnight camps) and lastly my cutesy stuff toys (to give me the much needed warmth in the superbly cold office) :P !

My Events Calendar for 2008

2008-04-25T10:05:00.012+08:00

So I guess I won't be hearing from you guys envying me that I'm always on time off, annual leave or training course, cos I'll probably be grounded for the next 4 months. That's why I taking whatever opportunities to start my clearing leave here and there.

Aly was reminding me the other day to start stocking up on Maggie noodles, just in case, we've got no time for lunch. I even have a sleeping bag in my office ready for overnight camps. But no to worry about missing on my favourite TV programs, cos the office has a huge Plasma TV and not forgetting aircon 24/7.

Below is my events calendar from now till beginning of January 2009.
Those in higlighted in orange are the ones that I'll be anchoring.

12-13 Jun 2008 Workshop on Social and Health Challenges of Population Aging
19-20 Jun 2008 Buddhism and the Crises of Nation-States in Asia
26-27 Jun 2008 International Workshop on 'Autonomy and Armed Separatism in South and Southeast Asia
10-11 Jul 2008 Reassessing the Origins of the Cold War in Southeast Asia: A Roundtable on the Sixtieth Anniversary of 1948
28-29 Jul 2008 3rd Singapore Graduate Forum on Southeast Asia Studies
31 Jul-1 Aug 2008 Workshop on "Return" in Asia: Experiences, Ideologies and Politics
4-5 Aug 2008 Conference on Resilience and Transformation of Families in Asia
14-16 Aug 2008 Workshop on "Icons in Motion: New Directions in the Study of Religious Iconography"
11 Sep 2008 Asia Trends 2008
22-23 Sep 2008 Migration and Diversity in Asian Context
24-26 Nov 2008 Workshop on Early Economic and Cultural Exchange across the Bay of Bengal
5-7 Dec 2008 5th Great Asian Street Symposium 2008 (GASS) - FUTURE-ASIAN-SPACE
End 2008/Early 2009 Religion, Ethics & Law in Asia Workshop Series I: Making Islamic Layers/Judges in Malaysia and Indonesia
8-10 Jan 2009 Converging Forces, Conflicting Values: Rethinking Heritage in Asia

More "Char Bor"?

2008-04-16T17:55:00.007+08:00

BREAKTHROUGH! I cut my fringe and had my hair permed last night.

The last time I permed my hair was during my secondary school prom night. It was so disastrous that it haunted me for years.

Seeing Carol permed her hair recently, made my hair itch a little. However, must thank my "very" encouraging colleagues, who even accompanied me there. However, having them around can be a quite a pain :P Don't know who is actually having a hair cut, they were literally making decisions for me. But I trust their them lah!

They say I look more "char bor" (ladylike) now -- except when I start to talk or walk. *piak*

Excursion to the New T3 Airport

2008-04-12T22:32:00.001+08:00

Secondary school friends from Paya Lebar MGS

We called ourselves - The GILA Group

Celebrating Alvena's birthday at the new T3 Airport.

The Kopitiam foodcourt at basement 2 was very crowded that night.

Only in Singapore, will you find local people travelling all the way there to have a meal.

(Gee, I'm one of them.)

The viewing gallery is such a disapointment.
It is being separated by the 2nd floor departure hall lobby.

Birthday gal, Aunty Nana and the kids.

That's what went behind the scene of taking picture of the kids.
2 cheerleaders & 1 photographer

Bakers in the Making

2008-04-06T22:33:00.012+08:00

Carol called yesterday and asked me if my kiddos and I wanna baked some rock buns/fruit cakes on Sunday. I was so proud to share with her that I've got the receipe still, as I have inherited my younger sis's Home Economics textbook from her Secondary 1 days (1990, I think) It's really ancient!

Carol was the patient chief chef that afternoon, giving instructions and teaching the kids to pour, measure, sieve flour; and eventually came the utlimate step -- the rub-in-method of the butter into the flour, which is a disaster in the making. The kids got so much dough on their fingers and we eventually ask them to stop and to wash their hands. Although the receipe mentioned that the portion was sufficient for 24 cookies, but we ended with 16 cookies instead.

Heheh...you wouldn't want to know what goes behind the kitchen and also the extra germs that were added into the mixture! It looks as if the kids are playing their regular Playdoh. Erh.. Gavin didn't dare try the buns at all.

Since we have some ingredients left, Carol and I decided to bake another lot of muffins, but this time round without the kids; they were busy watching TV already.

Don't they look yummy to you? But Carol commented that the taste was horrendous and they taste nothing like muffins at all. Hehe... confessions here! I forgot to add salt to it. :P

A Special Stamp on My Passport

2008-04-04T23:16:00.005+08:00

I've recently got a special "Guilt-free approval to travel without husband & kids" stamp on my passport, supported and endorsed by my most honorable Minister of Manpower cum Home Affairs. (I thought I better penned this down in black and white and all colours, while the stamp is still valid.)

At the Good Friday service on 22 March, Pastor was sharing to the husbands about releasing the woman to where God wants them to be and not be bogged down by housework and the kids. And that just confirmed what we shared earlier in the afternoon, just before attending the service.

Gavin was sharing with me that he met a former colleague, who had enlightened him about spending time with our own parents. With the passing of his dad 2 years back, he did experienced regrets of not spending more time with him. And for the first time, he had actually verbally released me to go and join my parents in their annual travel -- without him and the kids. He agreed to babysit the kids for me.

Frankly speaking, I didn’t dare dream of travelling alone, as I’m worried and guilty of leaving Gavin to cope with the kids by all by himself. Thank goodness, Gavin also realized that I probably won’t be able to enjoy my time with my parents, if I were to travel with my kiddos, as my eyes will suddenly multiply by 8 folds and turn into a 16-eyed disco-lights ball monster.

Finance is the other factor, thus, over the years, it’s either all go or all don’t go. Anyway, it’s not cheap travelling as a family. The last time, I estimated having to spend more than $2K just to the Genting Highlands, and it’s not even that far away. Anyway, I have learnt from my previous trip to Batam that kids are easily contended with the simple activities. And guess what? The kids enjoyed swimming and Pizza Hut most when they were at Batam. And I can do all on the green, green grass of home on the island called Singapore.

When Gavin was in his twenties, he had the opportunities of travelling together with his parents and sis to the US, Europe and Japan. And suddenly both of us only began to realize that I didn’t have that opportunity. Yah, what have I been doing in my twenties? After graduating, it’s like staring on a new career path which paid peanuts as a freshie and after that got to start saving for wedding. Then, got married at 25, the life got abit mundane with changing of diapers, feeding the kids, housework and now coaching in the kids’ studies.

It’s never too late. I think now is the time to relax. My parents too, slogged in early years of their marriage and now, they are always travelling and doing things together, as if their second “pak-tor”.

Hehe… sometimes, I joked with my colleagues how I wished our company could send us overseas (except to Aceh and on Adam Air flights) to organize an event and I could take extend my stay there and travel a bit … hehe Before my mind started to wonder elsewhere, Gavin reminded me that he only allows me to travel with my parents, so that it will be meaningful and not for my own leisure trips with friends. Hmm, he can read my mind. I sometimes wonder if there is a cloud caption floating above my head.

So sisters, let’s arrange to join mum and dad to somewhere this year shall we? We haven’t done that together since secondary school days. I think the last time was donkey years ago to either Indonesia or Thailand?

On the Rosier Side

2008-04-03T15:17:00.008+08:00

I'm very suprised and touched when Gavin bought me a get-well-soon rose today as I was down with a very bad stomache and puked thrice during the last 2 days. (No, I'm not pregnant!)

In fact, last week, he bought me a stalk after our Church Senior Pastor gave a family talk during Santification Week (the Good Friday weekend) to the husbands to love their wives , not only through words, but also through actions.

That first flower was chosen by Joel and paid by daddy. But the best part is knowing that Gavin was following up with regards to our conversation, which we left off during Valentine's Day this year. He added on that he finally found a stalk that is not only big and beautiful but also cheap and it only cost him $1. I wished he would just simply smiled and keep the finer details to himself.

I remembered he mentioned 2 days before Valentine's Day that a stalk of rose cost $3. And I purposely reminded him on Valentine's Day itself that the rate per stalk actually went up to $7. I didn't even bother asking him about where's mine, as I knew along that I married a very practical man.

Actually, there were 2 ocassions, which I still remembered vividly. Once, when we were on a group outing to Cameron Highlands, after much perstering, he finally bought me a bouquet of small champagne roses - all wrapped up in newspaper. And the second occassion was of course the compulsory wedding bouquet of champagne roses (my favourite), which I think was part of the wedding package.

After that, my husband went on to add that it doesn't have to be on Valentine's Day to receive flowers and it's better than none right? Yeah right! In my heart, I was thinking -- one stalk a month, for 12 months. I'll probably have to wait for a year to accumulate my dozen of dried roses.

Stalk 1 - 28 March
Stalk 2 - 2 April
And still counting.

Baby No .3

2008-04-01T14:04:00.015+08:00

Didn’t you know meh? That’s my number 3 - Jolene.

No lah, that’s Joel all wrapped around in my pink towel. And he hates it when I call him "Jolene", and I often threaten him with the name change, if he is to continue with his crying spasms.

Actually during my last 2 pregnancies, I did plan for names for both sexes. So you can imagine, how bored I am when I'm pregnant that I started naming my child even before I knew the gender of the baby. And if I were to have a gal, I would call her - Ethel.

Recently, a close friend of mine from secondary school gave birth to set of twins. She also has a boy prior to the twin’s arrival. In addition to that, another of our friend from the same GILA gang is pregnant again with her third child.

No wonder I'm having this nightmares of those 2 gals cajolling me to join them in the pro-MCYS policy: “Ai, come join us leh. We are all having 3 children! The new quota for our GILA gang is 3."

And my old naggy neighbours have from time to time persuaded me to take a gamble and to try for a gal. I cannot take a chance of having yet another boy. This type of gamble is for life man! I've long decided to close my factory, mainly because of the lack in childcare help. My hands are really full with the 2+1 boys at home. Nothing will make me “dong san zai qi” (means to stage a comeback).

However, I’m still excited for Angela and I sincerely rejoice with her. Indeed, this child is God-planned and he/she will bring the blessing of God to the family.

Wow! Our GILA group consisting of 10 adults and 8 kids (and 1 forthcoming) are really booming with children. It can be quite a challenge nowadays to source for a place for gatherings.

This picture was taken in 2006
Thanks Nana, for the correction.
You always have a super memory with dates.
Missing from the pictures are: Judy (who was stationed overseas) and
the new additions to our group Shayna and Aaron & Asher (twins)

Relationships are like eggs

2008-03-29T22:25:00.000+08:00

Recently, a friend forwarded me one of those encouragement email with wonderful pictures and stories, which I would usually read and go "Yah, yah, I read these before lah!" But somehow this time, as I read the message with a different mindset, I felt as if everyday I'm treading on landmines. Perhaps, it's the situations that I've recently encountered both at home and at work.

I'm attaching the whole message to my blog, so that it will be a constant reminder that relationship is fragile and to handle it with care.

TRUST

A telephone operator told me that one day she received a phone call. She answered, 'Public Utilities Board.' There was silence. She repeated, 'PUB.' There was still no answer. When she was going to cut off the line, she heard a lady's voice, 'Oh, so this is PUB. Sorry, I got the number from my husband's pocket but I do not know whose number it is.'

Trust is a very important factor for all relationships. When trust is broken, it is the end of the relationship. Lack of trust leads to suspicion, suspicion generates anger, anger causes enmity and enmity may result in separation. Without mutual trust, just imagine what will happen to the couple if the telephone operator answered with just 'hello' instead of 'PUB'.

NO POINTING FINGERS

A man asked his father-in-law, 'Many people praised you for a successful marriage. Could you please share with me your secret?' The father-in-law answered in a smile, 'Never criticize your wife for her shortcomings or when she does something wrong. Always bear in mind that because of her shortcomings and weaknesses, she could not find a better husband than you.'

We all look forward to being loved and respected. Many people are afraid of losing face. Generally, when a person makes a mistake, he would look around to find a scapegoat to point the finger at. This is the start of a war. We should always remember that when we point one finger at a person, the other four fingers are pointing at ourselves. If we forgive the others, others will ignore our mistake too.

CREATING PERFECT RELATIONSHIPS

A person visited the government matchmaker for marriage, SDU, and requested 'I am looking for a spouse. Please help me to find a suitable one.' The SDU officer said, 'Your requirements, please.' 'Oh, good looking, polite, humorous, sporty, knowledgeable, good in singing and dancing. Willing to accompany me the whole day at home during my leisure hour, if I don't go out. Telling me interesting stories when I need companion for conversation and be silent when I want to rest.' The officer listened carefully and replied, 'I understand you need television.'

There is a saying that a perfect match can only be found between a blind wife and a deaf husband, because the blind wife cannot see the faults of the husband and the deaf husband cannot hear the nagging of the wife. Many couples are blind and deaf at the courting stage and dream of perpetual perfect relationship. Unfortunately, when the excitement of love wears off, they wake up and discover that marriage is not a bed of roses. The nightmare begins.

NO OVERPOWERING

Many relationships fail because one party tries to overpower another, or demands too much. People in love tend to think that love will conquer all and their spouses will change the bad habits after marriage. Actually, this is not the case. There is a Chinese saying which carries the meaning that 'It is easier to reshape a mountain or a river than a person's character.' It is not easy to change. Thus, having high expectation on changing the spouse character will cause disappointment and unpleasantness. It would be less painful to change ourselves and lower our expectations.

RIGHT SPEECH

A friend and her millionaire husband visited their construction site. A worker who wore a helmet saw her and shouted, 'Hi, Emily! Remember me? We used to date in the secondary school.' On the way home, her millionaire husband teased her, 'Luckily you married me. Otherwise you will be the wife of a construction worker.' She answered, 'You should appreciate that you married me. Other wise, he will be the millionaire and not you.'

There is a Chinese saying which carries the meaning that 'A speech will either prosper or ruin a nation.' Many relationships break off because of wrong speech. When a couple is too close with each other, we always forget mutual respect and courtesy. We may say anything without considering if it would hurt the other party. Frequently exchanging these remarks plants the seed for a bad relationship. It's like a broken egg - cannot be reversed.

PERSONAL PERCEPTION

A couple bought a donkey from the market. On the way home, a boy commented, 'Very stupid. Why neither of them ride on the donkey? 'Upon hearing that, the husband let the wife ride on the donkey. He walked besides them. Later, an old man saw it and commented, 'The husband is the head of family. How can the wife ride on the donkey while the husband is on foot?' Hearing this, the wife quickly got down and let the husband ride on the donkey. Further on the way home, they met an old Lady. She commented, 'How can the man ride on the donkey but let the wife walk. He is no gentleman.' The husband thus quickly asked the wife to join him on the donkey. Then, they met a young man. He commented, 'Poor donkey, how can you hold up the weight of two persons. They are cruel to you.' Hearing that, the husband and wife immediately climbed down from the donkey and carried it on their shoulders. It seems to be the only choice left. Later, on a narrow bridge, the donkey was frightened and struggled. They lost their balance and fell into the river.

Different people have different perception. One man's meat could be another man's poison. You can never have everyone praise you, nor will everyone condemn you. Never in the past, not at present, and never will be in the future. Thus, do not be too bothered by others words if our conscience is clear.

BE PATIENT

This is a true story which happened in the States. A man came out of his home to admire his new truck. To his puzzlement, his three-year-old son was happily hammering dents into the shiny paint of the truck. The man ran to his son, knocked him away, hammered the little boy's hands into pulp as punishment. When the father calmed down, he rushed his son to the hospital. Although the doctor tried desperately to save the crushed bones, he finally had to amputate the fingers from both the boy's hands. When the boy woke up from the surgery & saw his bandaged stubs, he innocently said, 'Daddy, I'm sorry about your truck.' Then he asked, 'but when are my fingers going to grow back?' The father went home & committed suicide.

Think about this story the next time someone steps on your feet or you wish to take revenge. Think first before you lose your patience with someone you love. Trucks can be repaired... Broken bones & hurt feelings often can't. Too often we fail to recognize the difference between the person and the performance. We forget that forgiveness is greater than revenge. People make mistakes. We are allowed to make mistakes. But the actions we take while in a rage will haunt us forever.

Toa Payoh Lorong 8

2008-03-27T13:08:00.007+08:00

Barina and I were reminiscing the good old days of our childhood of how brave our mothers were - leaving us (as a young child) alone in the house while they ran errands. Barina's mum used to switch on the Rediffusion, so that it looked as if someone is actually at home to deter Adrian Lim’s counterparts from kidnapping kids who are left alone at home.

Gee, I think our mums have a lot more trust in their children than us towards our own children. I would be worried about safety first. However, I believe they did take the necessary precautions like locking up the grilles and so forth. But I think children of the last generation are more kuai(1) -- actually, dumb may seems more like it. Nowadays, kids are rather kuai(4)-l*n.

Talking about the famous murderer of the 80’s – Adrian Lim. Suddenly, everything began to fall in place. Barina and I found out that we actually came from the same neighbourhood as Adrian Lim (actually, he stayed at Lorong 7, but Lor 7 and Lor 8 is separated by just a canal.)

I used to stay at Blk 232 and Rina stayed at Blk 233 - the one with the provision shop downstairs. Her sis, Marina and I are of the same age and we came from the same primary school - Braddell. I've wondered if we've ever met before.

A couple of years back, I also found out that Wai Kit and I used to stay at the same block. What a small world!!! The funny thing is that I didn't manage to bump into any of my old neighbours, whom I used to play masak masak with, but am now connected with neighbours that have moved out from Lorong 8 to all over Singapore and then landed up in NUS and eventually became good friends.

Easter Egg on Joel's Head

2008-03-22T20:46:00.000+08:00

Hi! Fly Guy

2008-03-09T21:18:00.008+08:00

It has been a busy weekend -- driving Gavin for his pre-Lasik evaluation on Friday, followed by his Lasik surgery on Saturday and review on Sunday. It would be have been ok, if not for allowing my kids to tag along with me. Or else, I could have at least do some window shopping at Paragon, while waiting for him. In the end, I was stuck at the clinic for more than 3 hours on both Friday and Saturday. I finally decided to pack my kids to my mum's place on Saturday night for some PEACE at last!

That is Gavin with his googles, which he needed to put on for a few days before he goes to bed. My sons has been calling him "Fly Eyes", as the googles are round and bulging -- looks like the aerial view of the Esplanade.

I remembered 5 years ago, when one of my friend went for Lasik, it was rather expensive, like $2,000 per eye and one has to pay cash up front. Nowadays, I rather afforable (slightly more than $2k) and it can be paid by installment somemore. Cool! Hmm, I wonder when will it be the day that one can pay for Lasik through Medisave?

I was just telling Gavin that it's a bit "bo hua" (not worth it) for him, as he has been wearing contact lenses all these while and it didn't make a difference in his outer appearance. Like all woman, I guess my rationale would be for vanity sake. However, my very practical husband tried very hard to explain to me that it's because his spectacles are always thick and heavy; and putting/removing contact lenses is a chore. (By the way, the power of his eyes are about 1000 degrees each.) I do wonder if choosing contact lenses over spectacles is consider vanity? Thus, I conclude that Vain is not only limited to Valerie, but also to GaVin!

My New Toy for 2008

2008-03-07T23:40:00.008+08:00

Finally, got my hands on the SONY T200 camera. I actually wanted a red one, but they only have silver or black for the promotion, thus I chose the classic silver one instead. Aly has got the exclusive red one, which she bought last September when it was first launched. However, I got the better deal, cos mine is cheaper and it came with the photo printer, camera case and 1 extra memory card FREE ... hehe.

But comparing gadgets and promotion can be such a heartache. Technology is happening so fast that within a year, there are many newer and better models with more megapixels being launched. I had my fare share of such "sim-tia" moments too.

My previous one was a Canon Ixus 40 and it had served me well. I always carry a camera in my one-tonne handbag, although my Dopod has a built-in camera. I do not wish to miss out on capturing memorable ocassions, such as of my kiddos, impromptu gila ideas of sabo-ing my colleagues and not forgetting for site visits. I think I have fiddled with the switch on my camera too much and it had became loose. Gavin suggested that I sent it for repairs, and I tried very hard explained that besides that, the current camera is only 4 megapixels - hello??? And seriously, after 3 years of fully utilising it, I am glad to pronounce it's retirement -- fully depreciated.

Lately, I have noticed that I had not developed a lot of pictures and thus lesser photo albums lying at home. I used to take roll and rolls of pictures, capturing the growth of Bryan's growing up years. It was almost like a roll every month, until he turned 2. And after that, I limited myself to 1 roll per quarter and it was a really causing a strain on my neck to wait so long to develop those photos. That's why, I decided to invest in my first digital camera. Now, I can suka suka view those pictures from my computer and also share it with my family and friends. But I have one concern which is having to diligently back up those digital copies, which I have not been doing so lately. I can't imagine what would happen, if my external hard disk will crash on me one day. CHOY! Hmm, maybe I should get myself another external hard disk at the next computer fair.

It's That Time of the Year

2008-03-06T14:02:00.011+08:00

March is a love-and-hate time of the year.

FINANCIAL YEAR END
Busy closing accounts. Chasing for payment, paying bills ... etc.

PEAK PERIOD FOR EVENTS
Got to finish up the remaining budget, thus more events were planned towards the end of last year to utilise the money.

RESULTS
Yah! Mum here is more anxious about Bryan's CA results. I often wonder who is really taking the test.

MARCH SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Erh … don’t know to be joyous or not? Always wanted to take leave and bring the kids out, but then again it’s my peak period at work.

IT SHOW
Yippee! That's the only thing that I look forward each March. I'm defintely going to the IT Show which will be held from 6-9 March 2008 at Suntec. The other forthcoming ones are: PC Show on 12-15 June 2008 at Suntec and Sitex on 27-30 Nov 2008 at Expo. But am limiting myself to only 1 gadget a year... expensive leh. Am eyeing for a digital camera this year.

Hopefully, I'll keep my sanity intact this March! But more of it at the IT Show especially!

Manhunt Singapore 2008

2008-03-04T16:09:00.004+08:00

I think this year's manhunt award should go to Mas Selamat!

Will Mr Mas Selamat please come forward to claim your title!

Hurry up! or else your title will go to the first runner up!

What an Event's Venue!

2008-02-29T16:53:00.009+08:00

Alfresco - Outdoor

Simply no air-con lah!

I'm not sure, if this is a store or what?

Secretariat Disaster Area

Internet Kiosk

Got mosquito somemore!

Even my caterer also commented that today's event venue is very "lok"!

Pandadol Promoters from JB

2008-02-27T12:34:00.004+08:00

Because all the ARI ("ugly") Singaporeans got headaches!

Going to Work

2008-02-15T09:44:00.003+08:00

Every day I get up and look through

the Forbes list of the richest people in America.

If I'm not there, I go to work.

Robert Orben

A quote from one of my spam emails -- very encouraging indeed!!!

I Nearly Broke My Back

2008-02-14T14:04:00.004+08:00

I just received Joel's school online newsletter this morning and am surprised to see this picture on the cover. I'm so proud of him that I need to show him off. I'm already dreaming that he will one day be on 8 Days magazine or even GQ... hehe. However, he looked so uncomfortable among gals.

Coincidentally last night, I asked him if he had any girl friends at school -- not the special kind of 'girlfriend' -- but friends who are girls? He looked at me as if the mum here is questioning him about her future daughter-in-law.

Anyway, his answer to me was, "I don't like girls. I like boys. I like to play with boys only."

Not only did I felt that my heart dropped and as I bent down to pick it up, I think I nearly broke my back and even felt the mountain trembled a little (ok, not the Canadian mountains, but Redhill lah). I think I read too much into it liao.

CNY Celebrations at Joel's New School

2008-02-13T14:20:00.003+08:00

Just change Joel to a new school, Little Skool House at the beginning of this year. Bryan is also in the after-school-care there.

It has been a very trying period last year, as we have to shuttle between 2 childcare centres, every evening to fetch the kids. The kids used to go to the childcare centre at my work place together every morning. However, with Bryan moving on to Primary 1 and also with me shifting to the new campus at Bukit Timah, Joel was not coping well with travelling to school alone all of a sudden. I thought perhaps a change of environment might be good for him, as he was dragging himself to school each day.

Sometimes, I really felt guilty for having sent him to the childcare at an early age of 18 months. I guessed there is not much of a choice, and this is really the best alternative for our family. Hopefully, he will understand that. He may not know, but I can see that during the last 2 years, he was transformed from a cry baby to a more responsible toddler.

Constipated

2008-02-13T09:32:00.002+08:00

Have you heard of this song before?

Gavin and I really catch not ball of what Joel is singing.

Don't know whether is it a Chinese or a Hokkien song.
Hear it for yourself.

猪和lù(你)dán(等)wú(到)
Aunty和山猪
谁是放臭sài(使)
粒粒真辛苦

Here’s my English interpretation (direct translation) of his "CONSTIPATED" song:

Pig and you finally waited for the presence of
Aunty and the wild boar
To see whose shit is most stink
Every motion (of shit) is so painful.

Bryan's 8th Birthday

2008-02-12T22:34:00.000+08:00

Spending CNY at Genting Highlands

2008-02-11T22:10:00.000+08:00

Coffee Addict

2008-01-22T18:47:00.001+08:00

Singapore Riddle

Question: Which is more talkative - kopi or bread?

Answer: Bread, because Breadtalk but Kopitiam.

Talking about kopi, I am having withdrawal symptoms from my 2 sources of coffee.

Don't know when, but I think it all started with Aly, who had a coffee kick and she was in the high throughout the night of the lecture event. And I heard she greeting at everyone at the registration with much hype.

And it's as if Coffee Bean came knocking on my taste buds again reminding me that there are other beverages other than tea with milk and Milo. Suddenly, I remembered that I haven't been drinking my favourite Coffee Bean ice blended Mocha with whipped cream for a long time. And now I'm having regrets giving in to one cup of harmless coffee. Now everytime, I passed by an outlet, my legs will automatically head for it, as if there are magnets drawing me in. And eventually, I got myself a Coffee Bean coffee $25 stored value card! Argh, I think I better control myself abit, cos it's an expensive drink!

Seriously, I'm not really a coffee drinker, especially where we have the luxury of a freshly brewed coffee machine in our office pantry -- all thanks to my former Ang Moh boss for such a good taste. However, most of my colleagues and I prefer the plain water... yah, so wasted hor... you may say.

My other coffee is actually this new Korean show Coffee Prince, which I was recently hooked on. I think the last Korean series that I’m glued to is Jewel in the Palace… long time man! All thanks to one of my researcher who is researching on media, culture and society. And watching DVDs is considered doing research…... envy.

I have been a good gal staying home every night to chase the series, until the company’s dinner made me missed one episode and thus die-die must get me hands on the DVD.

I'm now trying to catch the re-run of Princess Hours on every Friday at 11:30 pm … cos I missed it the other time, as it was shown at the 7 pm slot.

2008 - Year of Sabbath

2008-01-14T23:18:00.004+08:00

If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on my holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and the LORD’s holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words, then you will find your joy in the LORD, and I will cause you to ride on the heights of the land and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob." The mouth of the LORD has spoken.
Isaiah 58:13-14

Although, it may seems an easy going year - SABBATH or simply REST, but then I think it's gonna be a tough one, as I've got needles on my butts -- can't sit still type. It will mean making a deliberate choice of not going my own way and doing as I please. (Hmm... a bit tough leh, God!)

Over the years, due to the nature of my job as an events person, being the eldest child, and of course being a mom trains me to think on the spot, on my toes and on my fingers tips....whatever. Often I feel as if my mind is controlling me -- telling me to do this and next do that, but of course it got processed in the brains lah! But the process is probably far too fast to cover all the analytical, consequences and the (heart) feelings departments. Somehow, I have over-relied on my own self -- only pausing to ask for directions once in a while. I think it has became a habit liao, to take on every load and burden into my own hands, working myself out like an ox... (by the way, I'm one..hehe). I have forgotten to learn to let go and relax a bit.

Thus, this year, I'm trying to slow down abit to Pentium 4 -- to think a little bit longer. Hehe... I think I'm getting on my colleagues' nerves, cos I think I am beginning to sound like my ex-boss.... "Should I do this or should I do that?''

Actually, the underlining message is actually to seek God first in whatever we do. I was reminded of the parable on sharpening one's axe.

A young man approached the foreman of a logging crew and asked for a job. "That depends," replied the foreman. "Let's see you fell this tree."

The young man stepped forward, and skillfully felled a great tree. Impressed, the foreman exclaimed, "You can start Monday."

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday rolled by -- and Thursday afternoon the foreman approached the young man and said, "You can pick up your paycheck on the way out today."
Startled, the young man replied, "I thought you paid on Friday."

"Normally we do," said the foreman. "But we're letting you go today because you've fallen behind. Our daily felling charts show that you've dropped from first place on Monday to last place today."

"But I'm a hard worker," the young man objected. "I arrive first, leave last, and even have worked through my coffee breaks!"

The foreman, sensing the young man's integrity, thought for a minute and then asked, "Have you been sharpening your ax?"

The young man replied, "No sir, I've been working too hard to take time for that!"

And these are the author's last words.

Our lives are like that. We sometimes get so busy that we don't take time to "sharpen the axe." In today's world, it seems that everyone is busier than ever, but less happy than ever. Why is that? Could it be that we have forgotten how to stay sharp?

There's nothing wrong with activity and hard work. But God doesn't want us to get so busy that we neglect the truly important things in life, like taking time to pray, to read and study Scripture, or to listen to "the still small voice of God." We all need time to relax, to think and meditate, to learn and grow. If we don't take time to sharpen the axe, we will become dull and lose our effectiveness.

My Weekly In-house Entertainment

2008-01-07T14:57:00.000+08:00

My dad recently converted Jas's room to his "dream" entertaintment room. Yah, he's been dreaming about that for years.

And it was about 2 weeks over dinner that we were casually talking about Playstation, XBox and Wii and that he should do his homework before acquiring one during the next PC fair in March. For all you know, mum told us last week that he had ordered a new TV liao. Boy that's was fast. And then he spent the week clearing up the room and the whole of Saturday night connecting and installing the sound system and game console. Now dad is looking out for a new carpet for better sound absorption and a new CD rack to hold his discs.

That afternoon, I was literally fighting with Bryan and Gavin for a chance to play the games. And wah piang eh, after playing 3 games of bowling, I can feel the strain on my muscles. I think I getting old liao! I heard the boxing and tennis are alot worse. So now that's a better motivation to excercise, as compared to jogging around the park. Erh, don't ask me when the last time I jog.

I tell you Wii is rather addictive. Bryan & I are already looking forward to our next weekend trip back to Ah Ma's home.

Peace - Quiet - Serenity

2008-01-04T10:36:00.000+08:00

L to R : Peace, Quiet & Serenity

Our wishes for 2008!

Actually, our new year's resolutions too.

Mummy, Help!

2007-12-29T14:48:00.000+08:00

I'm not sure who is more happy receiving Christmas gifts -- not my sons, but muah! My husband and I spent 2 hours assembling their Lego blocks .... haha

I Love Christmas ... (Shopping actually) !

2007-12-25T15:03:00.000+08:00

It has already been a ritual that the night of Christmas eve is reserved for party with my relatives belonging to my maternal side. And this is the 4th year that we've held it at Ming's condominum.

Thank God the weather was fantastic that day. I think Ming must have prayed hard for the weather, but forgot pray to win the top 4 lucky draw prizes, which is the main highlight of the event. It had us cheering at the top of our voices and sucking up to the guest-of-honor (Ah Ma) not to pick our names first. The 1st prize this year is a $80 voucher and the subsequent 2nd to 4th prize is a $50 voucher each. The rest of the prizes consist mainly of very practical presents such as tissue boxes, biscuits and recycled presents (which I'm sure everyone is aware of) such as perfume, souveniers from the beer promotion, photo frames, etc. I've got a packet of biscuit this year. Opps nearly forgot -- must credit Ming, Peng & Arbi for sponsoring the buffet dinner; and Daddy Yeo, Peng and Henry for the vouchers.

The kids enjoyed themselves most, cos they were showered with presents. And their mummy here too, has enjoyed shopping for presents for the past few days (with permission granted from Gavin, ok) who had kindly agreed to help to babysit the kids, while I shopped to my heart's content.

Did I tell you my dream job (last time lah) is to be a purchaser at some departmental stores or be a professional shopper. Now I wish I have the $$$$$ to set up my very own shop to sell clothes, gifts and anything trendy, except "kar-chung".

Honour Our Parents

2007-12-23T23:47:00.000+08:00

I thought it only happen in my office that we were asked to put together an event within a 2 weeks notice. Luckily, quite used to this. We had this plan of organizing a Parents Appreciation Night in the middle of this year, but somehow we have been putting it on hold. God has His own timing and I truly believe that it will be for the best.

When God is is the midst, we can rest in Him to know that everything will in place at His precise timing. The Lord’s favour is definitely upon us. When the group size ballooned from 40 pax to about over 60 pax and God provided us with an alternative venue next to the church in Marine Parade fairly quickly. And He was there when we were planning and acquiring the gifts, especially the plants, the “Life” mineral water and the candle & tealight holders and also guiding us in planning of His program. Also, initially we had to turn over the room in 15 minutes, but the booking prior to our event was cancelled and we had ample time to set up the place *phew*!

The theme for the Christmas party was “Honour your parents” taken from Exodus 20:12. Of course, the party is for our parents and I can sense that they did enjoy themselves. Wasted, I didn't take a picture of them playing the games of musical chairs and blanket game. And how could they go home without hearing the Christmas message ... hehe. I think alot of the non-Christians parents sort of know the drill, they wanted to 'siam' liao, but were too paiseh to leave, or perhaps they were weak on their knees already after they heard us sang the song 至少还有你 Zhi Shao Hai You Ni, dedicated to them. Aiyoh, that night, my eyes were tearing from time to time -- when we sang the song, during Pastor’s sermon, and while saying a prayer of blessings to my parents. So paiseh, my mum has to offer me a tissue paper.

But what I really want to share is -- before encountering this small, but yet faith-building victory of seeing my parents actually coming for my church events, I have been facing a long battle within myself of fear of don’t know what – rejection? paiseh-ness (sometimes don’t know what to say or share really)?. 2007 is a Year of Victory, which God has promised. Pastor shared that in order to have victory, we need to enter into battle. And the one thing that is required of us is to step out in faith. So simple hor, but I tell you it is not -- at least for me. But the most challenging one was the first time that I had to bless my parents aloud and face-to-face during the 100K Blessings in July this year.

The background to my relationship with my parents has somehow become a bit "ke-ki" (polite/ formal). Having being married for so long (into my 10th year in 2008), and over the years, the returning-home-once-a-week gathering on Sunday, seems to have subtly drawn us apart by the millimetres each year and there is this mild awkardness at times, where you normally associate with CNY gatherings of just some superficial sharings. Sometimes, I feel I am just reporting of how the week has been for me and my family and would update them on the kids' funny moments or new tricks. Seriously, I can't remember when is the last time that I sat down to have a heart-to-heart talk, cos time is always so short on Sundays, and the kids are either cranky or noisy to deepen any conversation.

Boy, it was tough for me to open my mouth to invite my parents, especially my Dad to come. Perhaps, it's because I simply assumed that I still know my parents well, and in my heart and mind I can already foresee what would his reply and reaction be, and thus, I had a lot of reservations. I probably think too much liao. Anyway then, as the date of the event drew near and we needed to confirm the order of food and gifts, I signed up both my parents in faith.

My dad didn’t agree at first but gave me a vague reply, “I’ve got no appointment that day, but can’t really confirm. See how first.” And Mum’s reply is always depending on dad’s decision, cos she is one submissive woman who stands by her man, accompanying him wherever he wants to go or do (including roller-bladding at mid 50s) so that he will not be lonely, actually I think it’s more of her not feeling lonely. Anyway, both my parents came that night. Dad sent me an sms “Ok, see you there” only that morning after much pestering and smses. He came because he didn’t want to disappoint me that every other parent came and mine didn’t come.

Actually in my heart, my main desire is for my parents to come to this party so that there will be an opportunity for my parents to get to meet my other spiritual family -- my pastor & wife, cell leaders, brothers and sisters-in-Christ, who have been my counsellor, guide and support and also for my friends to meet my parents, whom my cell has been praying with me. It has always been a great joy meeting many of my friend's parents and hearing their sharing. And it finally dawn on me that if I didn't open my mouth to invite my parents to come, then I am robbing them of this opportunity of experiencing this same joy of fellowship that I had.

That night, after blessing my parents once again, I felt that there was a change in our relationship, as if something between us has been removed. I believe this is only the beginning and there are more blessings to come.

My Name is "Blackie"

2007-12-21T22:32:00.000+08:00

Have been busy lately with Christmas with feasting, shopping for Christmas gifts, spring cleaning and spending time with the kids before school reopens, however, the weather has not been great.

Talking about feasting, we had our admin lunch at the Straits Kitchen at Hyatt Hotel on Wednesday, 19 December. Lunch was good cos it's buffet serving local hawker delights. And we bump into Aunty Connie who brought her department there too.

Just prior to lunch, we had our gifts exchange. I bought a wallet for my secret pal, Selvi, who does not need anything, cos she is blessed with a husband who shops for her from clothes to footwear and even her Christmas presents for the office and gift exchange. And I received a lovely necklace from Fern Ni in my favourite colour, green.

Ate too much that afternoon and the new shoes that my mother-in-law gave were biting me, so I decided to have my bi-annual haircut. I hate going to the hairdresser, cos it's a 3-4 hours affair of washing, cutting, rebonding (this time round), colouring, treatment, blow dry and some minor trimming again. It's worst during festive period. I would usually give some excuse about rushing off to fetch my kids and then they'll get 2 helpers to colour and blowing my hair. However, this recent trip to the hairdresser was a nightmare and it broke my record of 4 hours. I sat from 4:30 to 10:00 pm -- a solid 5.5 hours. By 7:30 pm, I still haven't colour my hair and I was so traumatized that I decided to colour my hair all black, so that I need no go back to the hairdressing saloon to have "alps" of my head being touch up for a while. I was getting up from my chair every half an hour to stretch myself. I definitely got pins on my buttocks, cos I can't sit still, which also explains why I enjoy my events job lor.

And guess what is the first sentence that my husband said to me?

Gavin: Wah, so long ah, got buy my KFC burger or not?
Val: Yah, no $ to take cab, cos spent a bomb at the hairdressor liao.
(Ah! Now I finally managed to get his attention.)
Gavin: Oh, how's your haircut? Not much difference leh?
Val: I JUST rebonded my hair and colour my hair black.
Gavin: Oh I see.
Val: Never mind, go and eat your burger.

That night, I think my face was as black as my hair.

Christmas Candy House

2007-12-14T16:45:00.000+08:00

The kids had a fun time decorating the Christmas Candy house, but didn't get to eat the house after that, cos they already had too many jelly beans and mashmallows, while decorating it.

Different Perspectives = Miscommunication

2007-12-12T13:39:00.000+08:00

There are many languages.
There are many interpretations.
Is it an interpreter issue?
A perspective issue?
The wrong adverbs?
It's a miracle anyone understands anyone.

Words excerpted from http://www.loneprairie.net/

2007- A Bountiful Year of Piglets

2007-12-04T23:02:00.002+08:00

This year has been a year of "fruitfulness". Many of my friends are having piglets. I think I have been to more hospital visits this year in comparison to my facials visits.

2007/2008
Mar: Gina (Gila) + Erik = Shayna Seah
Aug: Kristy (Colleague) + James = Kieron Ang
Sep: Jason (Gavin's cousin) + Sally = Isabella Ang
Nov: Connie (Cell group) + Boong Seng = Daniel
Nov: Verene (Colleague) + Jacky = Shirlyn Yow
Nov: Henry (Colleague) + Judy = Kelly Kwan
Nov: Val Hea (Gila) + Jacob = Aaron + Asher Kong (yah, twins!)
Jan: Rebekah (Cell group) + Chin Hsiung = Danielle
Jan: Meiyih (Cell group) + Lip Keong = Matthew

And of course, the hot topic for conversation these days has been baby talk. Which is why, one automatically promote to "aunty" level after giving birth, cos suddenly all our conversation suddenly focus on one thing -- our children. And then it snowballed to bitch about in-laws, maids and even husbands. Hehe.. I'm guilty of that too.

But seriously, sometimes, I wonder what would the single friends amongst us feel, when we keep on blabbering about kids and nothing else. What happen to those good old topics about last night's TV show, the new/interesting experiences, sharing of good tidings, or even the boring current events? I think I need a system to remind myself to zip up, especially among single friends, and try not to end up being sucked into the conversation about children. Please feel free to show me the boring look, or tell me straight off in the face (if I still don't get your hint) to change it from Kids Central channel to Arts Central or even Channel "yoU". I would rather you tell me bluntly, than to loose your friendship.

Worship or Workout?

2007-11-23T22:41:00.000+08:00

My network was scheduled be backup choir (in addition to the main choir) for this week's church service. So yesterday, I went for the practice session, which had the biggest turn-out so far, since it was opened to network in September this year. We also had the privilege of having Bobby Michaels join us for this week's worship. Hehe.. still have his cassette at home, which I bought during the SLF days.

I should have known that it's not just purely a dry run of going through the workship songs and it's actions, but making the practice as if it's the live worship itself. We are jumping and prancing around singing to the "I want more, more more" song -- a high energy song. And I think it looked more like a mass aerobic workout session than a praise and worship session. And guess what, I came in my hispter pants without a belt -- big mistake -- I had to pull my pants after each song... how edifying :P And later, we had our arm biceps and triceps training, when we had to lift our arms straight and wave from the right to the left for about 5 minutes or so. This morning, I woke up feeling the aftermath of it. Boy, no need to sign up for any fitness memberships, just join church chorale can liao!

But I must say the presence of the Lord was so strong and everyone was soaked into the praise worship, expressing our joy and worship to the Lord. It's really a privilege stand on the stage to lead the congregation in worship and draw them into the God's presence. As what Pastor Joe Kum says, we are all worship leaders. May God be exalted in our worship.

Shiok-a-Doodle-Doo

2007-11-20T15:29:00.000+08:00

Today marks the 2nd day of the 3-day conference for which I'm anchoring. This morning, my caterer came in late and my guests were left stranded at their hotel, cos the bus which I booked got stuck in a jam and have to book cabs for them instead. And after settling everybody in, I was feeling hungry, yet no appetite -- how contradicting hor -- but it's the same old catering food lah. However, still have to eat a little, cos haven't had anything for breakfast all morning.

On the sidetrack, as an events organiser, even when you feel bloated, still have to test the food to see if it's worth re-ordering. Maybe I should include my role as a food taster as part of my job duty in my next appraisal. But my all-time favourite caterer is Orchid Thai. Sure to have space for that -- all the time. I must say their food is tasty and it's defintely different from the rest. I especially like their tom yum soup, mango salad, lemon grass drink and many more. Contact Ah Jay. (Jay Chou's Bro)

But, today I have ordered food from another caterer. So as usual, the events team started wondering for alternatives for lunch. If you were to see the spread that we have catered for the conference and then see us eating something else instead. But we couldn't help, cos we eat catered food almost twice a month. I bet they must be wondering either the catered food is not tasty, or the events team must be something wrong up there.

And Aly (with the light blub shining so bright above her head) has to tempt us with the Malay rice at Engineering Canteen, and we unanimously agreed to her suggestion. Oh! How I miss the Malay rice there. A simple meal of fried chicken wing, sayur lodeh and their chilli is enough to give me the kick. Not forgetting also to drown it down with Coke from MacDonalds! Yummy lunch! It simply erased my distress from the morning, man!

Actually, we sort of missed the canteen food back at the Kent Ridge Campus (KRC), eversince we shifted to the Bukit Timah Campus (BTC), which doesn't even served the basic food, such as chicken rice or fishball noodles. So those of you who are still complaining about having the same old food at KRC, better be grateful that you have more than 60 over stalls to choose from the various canteens. Perhaps, you should drop by to BTC one of these days. Give me a call, if you were to drop by.

Are 2 Heads Really Better Than One?

2007-11-19T23:34:00.000+08:00

Have been busy lately with events and especially anchoring one with mutliple organisers and secretariats event. It's tougher than I thought - the saying "Too many cooks spoil the broth" is so true.

So "Are 2 heads really better than one?"

I mean more feedback is good because you have more options, but there should be only one decision-maker. However, being in the Asian context, great ideas often become compromise(s). And I'm guilty of that because everybody contributes. Either that, if I insist I would be called "too domineering". Aiyoh, very kan-kor cho lang!

I feel that the ultimate objective of a meeting is to make the best decision out of the various suggestions. But often what happen?
- No conclusion.

- No follow-up.

- We try this and try that... in fact ALL options.
- And lastly, assuming that someone else will take care of the matter; or better still -- the problem will disappear into the thin air.

The more people there are on one job, the longer it will take. Personally, I find it more effective to just work with one organiser, whom I can turn to for decision making.

The ideal scenario would be to have a leader, who knows what he/she wants; and the ka-kia, who knows what needs to be done.

Finally, BROADBAND for me

2007-11-08T00:31:00.000+08:00

Finally, took the chance apply for broadband and to convert to Singtel MIO Plan, as we could save quite a bit from buying a a new mobile phone without contract.

I have been using dialup for years (yeah, I'm a dinosaur) cos can rely on NUS Dialup, which is free. But then the speed is a killer. The best time to check email then was around midnight. Thus,only checking my emails from home, when neccesary.

Eversince, it was installed on Saturday 3 November, I have been having sleepless nights from checking my emails, reading blogs and catching up with friends on MSN. VERY SHIOK! But it has been taking a toil on my eyes. Got panda eyes now.

My First Parking Summon

2007-11-06T23:21:00.000+08:00

Today, I kanna my first summon at my MIL's carpark for displaying THE NEXT DAY'S date on my parking coupon. And Gavin took a dig at me that displaying parking coupon religiously is not good enough to avoid summon. Kanna double stabbed OUCH! OUCH! Cos I'm always reminding him to put in the extra coupons and not take a gamble with the parking warden. Thus, I have made it a point to replenish the parking coupons in the car.

But today, it's a really a stupid mistake on my part, but what's more STUPID is that I innocently went up to that woman warden, who was 5 cars away that I did put a coupon and it's still within the time period. Then, she gave me a straight-face answer, "Look at your date." Alamark! Luckily, she charged me for having an expired coupon from the one that I use during lunch. $20 can buy 2 $1 booklets or 4 $0.50 booklets leh!

Does appeal works? But I guess it's no use going through the hassle. Just take it as paying for a valuable lesson.

Spider Pig

2007-10-30T17:55:00.000+08:00

While driving to school this morning, out of nowhere I was singing to Joel the chorus from the song Spider Pig - Simpsons movie. Then, as usual, Joel and his "WHY" questions.

Here's the conversation this morning.

Joel: So it is a spider or a pig?

Mummy: It's a pig.

Joel: Then WHY got spider?

Mummy (trying to be clever): So is Spiderman - a man or spider?

Joel: Man.

Joel: But WHY got spider?

Mummy (feeling fed up already): BECAUSE the man ate the spider!

Joel: Ok.

When kids are at the age of punctuating with "WHYs?"... I tell you it's like pulling hairs off your armpits... ouch!

TIPS: Climb Stairs Without Feeling Tired

2007-10-18T14:58:00.001+08:00

Here’s a tip on climbing stairs or slope without straining your thigh muscles. Use your hands to lift your butts, so that the effort will be spread out evenly between the upper and lower thigh muscles. This action will even propel one to move forward-and-upward - with ease!

Bar Trick with Whisky & Water

2007-10-18T10:40:00.000+08:00

Monday Blues

2007-10-15T11:10:00.000+08:00

This is Joel in his Monday Blues.

"Just Use 5% of Your Brain!"

2007-10-13T22:37:00.000+08:00

Was invited to my ex-colleague, Shalini's house for Hari Raya celebration. As usual, she would busy cooking, washing up, washing the toilet, except dressing up and enjoying herself as a host.

However, this year should be expectional and actually, I am expecting catered food as she just recovered from a surgery. Some of her guests were expecting a heavily-head-bandaged Shalini to be receiving us. Oh man! She scared the hell out of us, when we heard that she needs to go for a major head operation to unblock an artery up in her head. Instead, the doctor pumped titanium through her abdomen and it was supposed to travel up to her brain. Now you know if she ignores -- don't be surprised -- cos she now has a rather expensive head.

Shalini's in-famous tagline is "Just use 5% of your brain-- you idiot / for goodness sake!". After our meetup, I can gladly confirmed that her 5% is still intact. It is still the same old Shalini.

Operation White Ankle

2007-10-10T13:16:00.000+08:00

Eversince I started driving, I have been tunning in to the radio stations for traffic reports, instead of playing whatever CD music that Joel has requested, like his Barney songs and Mickey Mouse music, or Hokkien worship. Felt like a DJ, man!-- "Yoh DJ! Hey pump this party!"

This morning, The Flying Dutchman from Class 95 was reporting on "Operation White Ankle" along Telok Blangah Road towards Pasir Panjang Road. And it had Glenn Ong in stitches, as he noticed that the Flying Dutchman has very "white" ankles, and was teasing the white Caucasian man for a solid 5 minutes.

But I find the code rather amusing! At first, I thought that the police are stopping the cars to spot check on drivers/drug traffickers for any hidden sachets of white stuff strapped to their ankles! I can't imagine, what they would come up next -- "Operation White Underwear"?

On the sideline -- remember those army mobalisation codes that were being flashed on while our favourite TV programs were shown, especially on Saturday afternoons. Most of the codes were weird too.

Ok, back to what I wanna say. Later on, someone called in and actually asked what does "Operation White Ankle" means. The DJs clarified that as long as you hear "Operation something... something..." it means to drive within the speed limit. Ah! Now we know?

But I then again, I have yet another burning question. If the traffic police is keen on nabbing those who speed, then what for warn people right? To save the trees by issuing less traffic tickets? How noble!

Botox for Spongbob Square Pants

2007-10-04T12:29:00.001+08:00

While unpacking my handbag and I came across this BOTOX brochure, which I picked up 2 weeks ago, while waiting to see the doctor. Nothing to do, so pick up something to read mah!

No, no, muah not going for Botox (yet). But I just wanna share this piece of shocking information about becoming/having a square face.

"Most women consider a square jaw to be rather severe and masculine ... blah, blah, blah ….Chewing on foods such as dried squid or gum and jaw grinding can result in overdeveloped muscles in the jawline. This is known as masseter hypertrophy or more commonly square jaw. Botox fulfils all these requirements ... blah, blah"

I didn’t know that eating my favourite “jiu hee” will overdevelop muscles in my jawline. Luckily, our government banned chewing gum, if not I sure kanna a right angle 90° face like Spongebob Square Pants!

Today Is My 9th Wedding Anniversary!

2007-10-03T10:39:00.000+08:00

Oops, almost forgot that today is my 9th wedding anniversary, until my good old buddy sms me to send me her well wishes. Only then did it jog my memory a bit. Anyway, no mood to celebrate lah. This morning, Gavin & I had a tug-of-war with Joel in school AGAIN. Don’t know when he will stop crying in school. Aiyoh, my blog has become my complaint platform liao! :P Actually, we do not expectations from each other that we must die-die celebrate our birthdays and whatever anniversaries. So when we do have that expectation, then we won’t get angry for not celebrating. Phew! And thus no stress in sourcing for a gift or dinner venue. And if we did remember, then that's a bonus or suprise! Haha

My husband always says “lao fu lao qi” no need to celebrate lah! However, most of the time, we did remember in one way or another. Better late than never, right? I always have to remind myself that I married a very practical man.

We would just meet up for a meal, but not the big hoo ha celebration type lah! Our favourite food is the mee hoon kway at Bendeemer hawker centre, which we have been patronizing since our pak-tor days.

Whose Next?

2007-09-28T22:53:00.000+08:00

A week long update.

Just as I was feeling a bit better, one by one, the rest of my family fell sick lor!

Joel was the second victim to be down with fever on Saturday, followed by Gavin with a throbbing headache on Sunday.

Monday, 24 September was Joel’s 4th birthday. Actually, I pre-ordered a Thomas Train cake for him to celebrate with his friends in school. However, he was still sick, so only managed to just invite MIL & SIL to celebrate with him at home. This is the second consecutive year that he didn’t get to celebrate it in school, as he contracted chicken pox during his birthday last year.

Was stucked the whole of Tuesday at home with Joel – and I mean literally STUCK! You simply can't do anything else, unless the TV is on. The 2 hours spent playing Lego with him was so draining on my energy (I mean of my creative juice) – like kanna being squeezed through the sugar cane juice machine. He commanded me to build all sort of motor vehicles. And when he finally slept, I too was knocked out.

Ah! Finally I was able to get back to work on Wednesday to clear the backlog of emails. Then, it was Bryan’s turn to fall ill. Wah lau eh! 4 days away from office already, just went back for a day and then still got to take another 2 days off again! I still got deadlines to clear, man!

So decided to bring Bryan in to office to work on Thursday. Also, the dialup to internet at home is really crawling like snail mail. Yah, aku still using DIALUP! Luckily, my office is quite flexible with that (or am I just assuming only).

Today, is a busy day. Felt like a taxi driver.

After having fetch Joel to school, then Gavin, who is late for work and lastly Bryan to mum’s place, who was helping me babysitting for a day.

The moment I reach mum’s place, I slumped right into the sofa. Somehow, there's no place like home, where I had lived the last 2o over years. Mum offered me some milk, as the stress is making my stomach very hungry. Catch up a little with mum. As I started to share with her my stress and frustration, tears started to well up in my eyes uncontrollably.

Rushed back to office cleared some email, before running some errands and hotel site visits. Luckily, my colleagues pitied me and suggested taking taxi there. Phew, no need me to drive!

Went back campus to pick up the car to fetch Joel. Then drop off Joel and the packed dinner to Gavin, who is the latest fever victim. Then, mum called to say that Bryan wanted to come back home instead of staying overnight. So off to mum's place again and grab some dinner with dad and mum. And finally managed reached home at 8:15 pm only. By then, someone was in PMS mood liao because of that pesky Joel.

I am so tired. Going to sleep now.

What a Week!

2007-09-21T12:06:00.000+08:00

Am down with sore throat, phlegm, cough, backache and feeling a bit feverish. I think I must have caught the flu bug from an event last week, whereby a number of participants were ill too. My colleagues, Barlyson and Uncle Banana are also down.

My immune system has been pretty low this week, as I had been running around fetching the kids here and there under the humid and hot weather. Yah, blame it on the weather. No wonder I can connect very well to picture of toilet rolls flying in the sky last week.

My husband had just started work this week and I am now in-charge of fetching the kids to and fro from school. Luckily, I picked up driving again last year when Gavin hurt his hand and could not drive. It’s a blessing in disguise, as he had no choice but to let me use his car…haha.

Driving is great! Firstly, no need to climb up the slope to campus each morning; and can also get to eat lunch other than the school’s canteen, which doesn’t even serve the basic food of chicken rice and/or fishball noodles! I’m okay with driving, except for parking lah, which I have improved from 3 empty parking lots, to 2 and now to 1 lot...hehe. And, please don’t ask me to park at any of the shopping centres in Orchard Road at the moment. And you know what? - driving comes with “responsibilities” – I mean errands and safety.

Every morning, I will have to fetch Joel to school and then have to wait with him for his form teacher to come. He’s got his mood swings at least once a week. In the afternoon, it’s time again to fetch Bryan from his primary school at Queenstown to the childcare centre at Ghim Moh, then grab a quick lunch. And I dread evening most. After fetching Joel first from Kent Ridge and picked Bryan up during the evening peak hours and only managed to reach home at around 7 pm. Thank goodness, Gavin helps to pick up dinner on his way back.

And the best is, I am very “lucky” to kanna whatever that driver fears about driving. The car battery went flat on the second day at the car park near Bryan school and I had to call upon AA to come and change battery and since it just happened at my hands, so I decided to pay for it. My husband thought it could last till Monday when he next service his car. But luckily, the car didn’t stall in the middle of the road. And on Wednesday, the ass of my car accidentally kissed the lip of another car at the car park, but twice lucky, God’s hands is upon me. The scratch on both our cars is erasable with a piece of wet tissue and the other owner is not around - PHEW! Must pray hard each day, man!

It’s not even passed 1 week of driving and I almost down and out physically, but then can’t raise my white flag of surrender…. Must reciprocate his efforts, so that he can work in peace and I also need to prove to him that he can leave the kids with me. That’s the life of a 2-income parents with young kids. Hope that didn’t put the parents-to-be off. It’s just part and parcel of life, which will mould us to be a stronger and better person. If not for my kids, I think I just continue to be the “small woman” or have the “damsel in distress” look.

As for now, have to just pray fervently to God and draw strength for him for another 2 months before Bryan’s school holidays start; safety and protection while driving; and lastly for time management.

Ah, now feeling better after blogging it, which can be so therapeutic. Hopefully, I can continue my writing in the months to come. And to be able to look back at the end of the year and to declare that I am an overcomer!

It's Appraisal Time!

2007-09-18T23:57:00.000+08:00

The Annual Review is due today! It is like a huge stone being lifted from my heart, as if it’s like submitting a proposal for extra funding … yah, funding for my allowance and lifestyle.

Writing a self-appraisal can be rather stressful. I had spent some hours last week and the whole day of yesterday selling “ko-yok”! In the end, I submitted a 7-page long report listing down my job duties and a whole lot of 80+ events. On top of that, there was another 10 over pages of thank-you notes and whatever supporting documents that I can find.

Somehow those cheesy advertisements from http://www.mocca.com/ have rubbed on me, especially the tag line – Search, Buy, Sell & Connect - Search through the Institute’s web for the list of events that we’ve organized. Buy lunch for Barina …. must “fan” her a bit you know :P but luckily she is on training course. Sell “koyok” and making my job duties and achievements known -- no shame at all hor!? Connect with my inner self to reflect beyond the activities, but also looking at the people behind the scenes.

And as I looked back, every year the number of events seems to be escalating. And it’s only when we started compiling the list that we began to look back how the year has been – 2 words – FAST and FURIOUS. However, it has been a joy working with Barina, Barlyson and Banana (the only thorn among the roses). We called ourselves Team Synergy.

The other person that I always thank in my heart, but often not verbally -- is my husband -- who has allow me to go all the way out to work in confidence and in peace. He has put his job search on whole for more than a year and occasionally doing some part-time jobs, so that he can be there for the kids and to manage the family and the household chores. Boy, it’s not an easy task. It takes a lot discipline. I would probably be lazying around, which is what I usually do on Saturday. Once I see the bed, my body goes “lembik”. And if you ask me to stay home to be a full-time “Ah Soh”, I think I’ll go mad first

Something in the Air

2007-09-12T14:16:00.000+08:00

Why do I have this feeling that it's gonna rain s***?

My Visual DNA

2007-09-10T14:02:00.000+08:00

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

Surprise! Surprise! Surprise!

2007-09-08T19:31:00.001+08:00

Every year around this time, I would be busy with events, cos it's usually peak period for me. But this year, slight budget cut, thus got a bit of time on OUR hands. So my colleagues came up with this crazy surprise.

I’m usually quite alert but this time don’t know why damn “naïve”. How come I didn’t smell any rat! Must be losing too much blood from under there! First, Rina tricked me to join them to Concourse to buy party stuff for Rina’s children day party which does not exist at all. While I was shopping for Joel’s birthday party packs, they secretly bought the deco stuff.

In the evening, my jogging kaki said that they got last minute plans thus can’t join Uncle Henry and me for our jogging series. And since I had missed 2 weeks of jogging due to Ah Kit’s farewell bash and Comex, I really felt that I need to continue without them cos getting a bit flabby these days. Usually, Uncle Henry will scold us upside down for missing and we would give the silly excuses such “Big Aunty Come” and whether if he needs verification … hehe; or would pray for rain (now you know why if it rains on Thursday!). But this time Uncle didn’t even open his gap.

When I came back from my jog, I was surprised to see Alyson around in the office and even commented that she should join us as we managed to finish our run early. At the turn after the mail box, I saw that the green balloons all over my cubicle… and some resemble coconuts trees … so sweet of them to plan a birthday surprise for me.

And as I walk towards my cubicle, I think my face suddenly also turn green … not so much from the reflections from the balloons, but the sight of the aftermath of the “supposingly sweet” SURPRISE. My cubicle was littered with confetti from the office shredder. Siao liao! And they also hid my chair and a couple of the spare chairs away!

Let me introduce the main masterminds and not forgetting the little elves who help tie the coconut balloons.

The best part is they all took time off the next morning and let me to clear up the mess and I jolly well thought they would be kind enough to lick them up for me. And I spend the next half an hour cleaning up. But luckily they redeemed themselves by buying me a durian cake from Angie’s cake shop, for the energy lost.

THANK YOU pals for the very memorable birthday surprise. However, next year I wish that my 2 events colleagues will have more events to keep them busy and away from any tricks.

Hehe…have I told you before that I get a bit “hyper” after durian? Now it only makes me even more excited about my next big plans. My creative juice is oozing from my brains already...so whose next?!

Dream on - Dream Away

2007-09-04T19:28:00.000+08:00

Uncle Hairy (Mao Mao) had been lamenting that he's got no cover shot like us! And since he's so nice to help me with my makeover, I have asked the 8 Days Editor to give him a chance lor! And I even got him a partner too! Wah! Somemore in that "MO-NI-CA" pose!

Should I Perm My Hair?

2007-09-04T14:20:00.000+08:00

Here's the last of the 3 BASH Beauties!

First, I wanna thank my celebrity makeup artist, Hen Ree, who has about 18 years of experience in the makeup world. Secondly, I wanna thank my photographer, Theo who has rummaged her whole house to obtain this cover (shot) for me.

Kam siah! I love you all.

Hmm... now it really makes me wonder if I should go and perm my hair?