My 2010 Resolutions

I am quite into this resolution thing ah. I would say it serve well as a direction indicator of where you want to head forth in the coming year. Or maybe it's just the systematic side of me (an engineer) talking. Haha..

Regardless, here are my resolutions for the coming big 2010.

1) Continue to follow and trust in God's leading in all areas of my life

2) Read the entire bible

3) To diligently practise and improve my drumming ability and join my Church Creative Arts Ministry

3) Finish my tuition loan repayment

4) To have a decent amount of saving

5) Climb Mt Kinabalu

6) Complete a full marathon

2009 Resolutions Review

1) To get my Class 3 driving license

I have gotten my Class 3 Driving license. The journey towards the end was frustrating as I failed not once but twice before getting my license on the 3rd try. But in the end, it was all worth it. Not only have I gotten a license, I also learned how God works when there is faith. God's providence doesn't stop here. He is blessing us with the car which I have been eyeing since I started my driving lesson early this year =D

2) To put my drumming skills to use in church (somehow)
Hmmm... probably didn't achieved this one. I have switched from Yamaha to a drum school. But Have not been putting in effort to practice consistently.

3) Live life to its fullest daily regardless of circumstances
Hard to qualify but I believe I am doing a fairly decent job.

4) Keep fit by cultivating a good sleeping habit, good diet and regular exercising regime
This is ok. I have cultivated a fixed gym regime of at least twice per week for several months now. And just this month, I am starting to pick up running again. But I can certainly do better in maintaining a good sleeping habit. Sleeping at 1plus am is a norm for me this whole year.

28 Decemeber 2009

Down payment has been made for our Kia Cerato Forte =D

Christmas 2009

It was a gathering with my JC clique on Christmas eve. Due to some unforeseen changes, this year gathering was down to just 4 of us. We did not carry our plan to hit some pub but instead did some sharing and updating on our lives. We shared on the good & bad in 2009 and our anticipation for 2010 and also our wishes for each other in this coming year. Even thou the night did not tun out to be as happening as originally planned, but I think it was a meaningful silent night =)

Our feast =)

The much anticipated gift exchange!

Having slept just 2 hrs the night before, I had a quick shower before heading for Christmas Service. The message shared by the Pastor, thou familiar, is a necessary reminder that the first Christmas present that was ever given was Jesus Christ Himself coming to earth.

After the service, it was a lunch session with my cell mates @ Westmall. I am thankful for these cell mates of mine. They are ever present for any occasions. Be it to share the joy of a happy event or to join in prayer for any difficult situations. No picture taken for lunch but I am sure there will be many taken for our 2nd Jan 2010 gathering =)

And there's a family dinner that I had just a while ago (ie. 25Dec evening) at Dian Siao Er JP outlet. It was just an impromptu suggestion and we went ahead since everyone is available =) Much of the talk over dinner was the kia Cerato Forte which we are considering. Talking abt the new car, I am still excited. Hopefully to get it before 2009 ends =)

Car Viewing

In just 1 year, I have gotten my license and now the possibility of owning a car is a step closer. I will be down the car showroom with my Sis later this afternoon to view the car I/we have been eyeing on since early this year - Kia Cerato Forte. She had a different car in mind but later came to realise the beauty of this car too. (or maybe just giving in to me. Thanks!)

We will just be down to view the car model, find the best package around and review our options before committing. So not sure how long that would take but the process should be an exciting one. Car certainly is a liability but for our case, the convenience and novelty do outweigh the liability IMO.

God is faithful and provides out of His abundance in His own way and timing.

Mission Trip Dec 2009

This will be my 3rd visit back to this house church in Tg Uban in Bintan. What a joy for us to be back there to celebrate early Christmas with them. Their earnest & fervour attitude of christian living & worship never fails to inspire me in my walk with God. God is working so mightily in that area and I also know and believe God is working as mightily in my life.

One of the nicest Group Photo =)

Everyone's back

Mum and Dad is back from Cameron/Genting Trip & Sis is back from her US trip. Thank God for all the Journey Mercies. Actually I was only back from the airport not long ago and it's already 2:23am Wednesday morning. I will be waking up in 4 hours time for work and it's gonna be a packed day tmr in office tmr before gg for drum lessons.

I guess it will be a packed week til Thursday night where I have a wedding to attend to. One of my good old friend from way back in JSS. Friday is an off day for me and that's when I need to prepare tuition material, buy prizes for Mission Trip and getting ready for the mission trip this weekend. And I definitely need to rest too. Even since I started work this week, I have been sleeping no earlier than 1am everyday. Shall go sleep now or I am likely to miss my company transport tomorrow.

My week of leave

My week of leave officially ended last Friday. It will be back to work as usual tmr!

It was supposed to be a week of break. I guess the physical rest portion was well accomplished. I slept a lot. Slept too much perhaps that I actually missed church service this morning because I overslept. It seldom happen. But that was about it. Spiritually and mentally it was quite the opposite case. It was more exhausting for me during this past week. And my goal of putting in place a scripture reading habit was not exactly achieved (thou I started somehow with the aid of this book I purchased. )

On a different note, it seems there are decisions I need to make with regards to my career. I am kind of at a cross junction now. Things have been coming in and I have been putting them on hold for some time now and perhaps a little too long. I would need to pray it through and make a choice on the path I like to go and make decisions based on that chosen path. Knowing that God is in control regardless of my decision (whether or not it's the best) should be all the assurance I need. I simply need to remember that. I don't think I can be indifferent about it any longer as things will only get more complex if I let them develop on their own. If not taken care, they may just meet head-on one day and that could be a potential huge mess which I don't want to take care of.

Officially Sick and the week coming up

Well, after a tough fight with the flu bug, I finally succumb to it. Well but I have minimized the impact it has on it.. It's not that bad and I think I have reached the peak and it will be recovery from here forth. At least I think so. Time to grab rest and let my body recovery speed up.

Since I am on leave tmr and the whole of next week, I will have plenty of time on hand. I need to plan out my schedule, to avoid wasting my time away just sleeping, eating and gyming. In fact from now til end of the year, I will be on leave every Friday . It will be 4 days week for the rest of the year and into 1st wk of Jan too. Shiok =)

Quick Update

I am too lazy to blog lately. And words can't flow whenever I made attempts to blog.

So a quick update on what's happening.

1) Took on a Brother role for 2 of my close friends' wedding. First taste of coordinating a wedding as well and it was a rather heart-warming night. Self-composed song by groom, lyrics by bride. Shot a MTV for the song. Had another close friend played a piano version for their march-in. And for me, I had the privilege of doing their wedding shot montage.

2) Will be clearing some annual leave this and next month. I need to use the time wisely, not just nua away. But catching up on rest is a sure thing.

3) Volunteering! For Great Olympic Race and there's also Podz outing next Sunday. Plus the periodically NYAA.

4) Drums postponed for 2 weeks. My dear drum mate is having exams. Student life!!!

That's it for now =)

My Driving Journey

If my memory serves me correctly, my driving journey started in early March. Having gotten my driving instructor's contact, applied for Provisional Driving License (PDL) and making necessary arrangements, I was having regular Sunday morning driving lessons. just before church service. This arrangement lasted for about four months and before long came my first Practical Test. But unexpectedly, I mounted kerb in the circuit test which resulted in an immediate failure. 2 months later, I had my second practical test. Even though things went super well in circuit, it was on road that I accumulated 30 demerit points which gave me yet another failure. At this point, I was truly upset. I was confident to clear it by the first attempt, yet now I am heading for my third try!!!

My third attempt was just earlier today. Having survived through a nerve wrecking morning (and the night before), I finally obtained a PASSED on my result slip. After watching the mandatory video (which I thought conveyed a very important safety message) and completed my driving license application, I walked out of BBDC with a temporary license. That officially marked the end of my quest for a ...AHEM... Class 3 driving license.

I have not expected myself to have taken so long nor having to go through 2 failed attempt before getting my license. All the more I did not expect God to use this episode to teach me a lesson on Faith. (How like the bible says in Matthew 17:20 that faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountain) Looking back, it was quite a journey of self-discovery. Now, at long last, I finally got my driving license. Now, I can checked 1 item off my 2009 resolution list. That is quite an achievement isn't it. Haha...

Who am I

Who am I?
That the Lord of all the earth,
Would care to know my name,
Would care to feel my hurt.
Who am I?
That the bright and morning star,
Would choose to light the way,
For my ever wondering heart.

Not because of who I am.
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done.
But because of who you are.

Chorus:
I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow.
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord you catch me when I'm falling,
And you told me who I am.
I am yours.
I am yours.

Who am I?
That the eyes that see my sin
Would look on me with love
And watch me rise again
Who am I?
That the voice that calm the sea,
Would call out through the rain,
And calm the storm in me.

Not because of who I am.
But because what of youve done.
Not because of what I've done.
But because of who you are.

Chorus:
I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow.
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord you catch me when I'm falling,
And you told me who I am.
I am yours.

Not because of who I am.
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done.
But because of who you are.

Chorus:
I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow.
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord you catch me when I'm falling,
You told me who I am.
I am yours.
I am yours.

Whom shall I fear?
Whom shall I fear?
'Cuz I am yours.
I am yours.

In His Presence

God never fails to be with us when 2 or more gather in His presence. It was such a time of dwelling in His presence this weekend. As we seek to be of encouragement to the people in Bintan, we are encouraged in return.

God was there at the moment when I am most in need. His timing never fails. Thank you Lord!

Malacca Update 2

It's my 2nd night and also e last night here in Malacca. It has been quite a trip and I'm now here having my foot reflexology in Jonker Street after so much walking these 2 days.
We basically went eating from places to places and within the 2 days we have tried Chicken rice balls, Chendol (twice), Wanton Mee, fried oyster (twice again), satay celup, carrot cake, beer and pineapple tarts. And we did some historical site visiting including e famous red building, Christchurch, and a ruined St Paul church.. I was pretty captivated by e remaining ruins of e St Paul church. Standing alone on elevated ground, it was a true historical site and one of e worthwhile visit to me.
So basically we did cover the Malacca town centre in 2 days and was not exactly in a rush, which was good.
Now gg to just chill while my feets are getting massaged.. Will be posting pictures when I'm back.

Malacca - Update 1

What a rush morning it has been.
It was just hours early where I was yum-senging away at a friend's wedding. It was a Jurong sec friend's wedding and a nos of us were down. After all these years, this has got to be one of e event where so many of us were gathered back tog. There was much catching up and some recollections of those schooling days.. Oh and we challenged the groom and his bros to many glasses of beer and wine. I had quite a fair bit myself. Didn't join e rest for after wedding activities but headed straight home to pack bag. I packed all my necessary barang barang for tmr's trip and was off to bed. But still woke up late this morning. Haha... But then none of them were on time. So typical of my uni mates. Haha... Well we did make it on time and had time for breakfast. We got on e coach and went thru both checkpoints already.
Finally after everything, we're now back on coach and straight on our way to Malacca.
Time to relax and enjoy e ride for now :)

Bukit Timah Fun

Bukit Timah nature reserve is still a hotly sought after weekend venue after all these years. Upon reaching at about 9plus, cars are all lined up by the roadside. Where there is road, you will find such car parking illegally. But surprisely, no summons were issued.

We started out hike after roti prata breakfast at Al Azhar Restaurant just opposite Beauty World SC. It was a fine morning and thru'out the hike, becos of the overhead vegetation, it didn't feel too hot =) So on and on we go, we completed the whole trail in just less than an hour. The trail is pretty decent and should not pose too big a challenge to the youth I believe. For us, the fun part actually came when we are at the summit. With a camera on hand and empty grass spaces, we just had fun snapping away. Haha... how typically of a young singaporean these days.

With camera on timer-mode, we attempt our jumping adventure.
Take 1: We kind of jumped too early...

Take 2: Only Theresa got it....

Take 3: Ok, think we all got it....

Us in yet another weird pose

Mission Accomplished =)

On my way to work, I see...

1) The Marina Sands Resort taking shape everyday. Now that the entire building is up, it's time for the sky bridge. The sky bridge is actually assembled chunk by chunk. Each individual chunk is constructed on ground level and after it's done, it will be lifted up to the top by cranes that are installed on top of these towers. I read somewhere that it takes 24hrs to transport every big chunk up to the top. All in all, there are many such chunks to be lifted and assembled. What an engineering feat. Interestingly, I was so fascinated by construction since a young age. Always brain-washed by my mum to be an engineer when I grow up. It came true. Not a civil engineer thou. A chemical engineer =)

(Taken using my HTC phone)

2) Another view also along ECP highway. You can see the new vehicular and pedestrian bridge taking shape. The one for pedestrians is called Double Helix bridge. Once completed, it will be a world first (kind of double spiral bridge i think) and it should look something like the one shown like the last photo.

(Taken using my HTC phone)

3) A cat. This cat is just near my neigbourhood. Saw it as I was waiting for the traffic light. Nothing much to add on about it thou.

My Marine Tank... starting again

Finally got down to clean my tank last weekend. The transformation was pleasant.

Managed to do the following:
1) Clear glass of algae
2) Replace filter wool
3) Empty/clean protein skimmer
4) Clean water circulation pumps
5) Aqua-scaping

Rocks are all shifted to the rear

Another view

My 2 remaining fishes

Still a far-cry from what a stunning marine tank could be. But good to take the first step again. Just got to keep the maintenance going and slowing stock it up with fishes and corals.

In a race...

You run. Not stroll or walk.

Hebrew 12:1
¹ Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.

I have to start running once again.

My New Racket

Wilson KFactor [K]Pro Open.

Woo Hoo... gotten myself a new Tennis Racket. And it has reached my hand just yesterday. It did not wow me the moment I lay my hands on it. But it is certainly growing on me. Its appearance and the feel. An apt time for me to get this racket as I am striving to improve on my strokes.

Racket description from wilson.com

So far, I have used it for 2 tennis sessions. Mixed results. Can't say for sure how this racket performs as my skill is so inconsistent. But I do know for sure this is a good racket and it's my skill I need to work on :S

Taken some additional pictures of my new racket as below:

Run on a morning

For a change, we had cell on Friday for the first time. (At least ever since I joined in this cell) It was a change from the usual Sat late morning timing and the turnout was pretty encouraging. As it was after a whole day of work/school, we kept it short.

After cell, we decided the night is still very young and thus went down Holland Village for a drink. It was pretty packed everywhere but we eventually found this pub place near Harry's where there was Oktoberfest promotion. In the end, we ordered mostly beers and some liquors for the gals. We also had Wedges, sausages and pork knuckles to go along with our drinks. It was my first time eating pork knuckles and I must say, I enjoyed the taste despite the layers of fats. It's nice! It was priced at S$36 which we all tot was so much more worth it (it was a big knuckle!!!!) compared to the S$45 mixed sausage types which is really over over-priced.

Despite the late night, me and XB still went on with our originally scheduled morning run! In the end, Grace and Alice came to join us. Alice, having to rush for OT course in church, ran just a couple of rounds. Due to XB enthusiasim, we ran 16 laps round the track in all. It was a record for me... never ran so many rounds on the tracks before. I actually do not fancy running on track. But it was a good morning workout thou. Oh, and there was a good morning crowd running there as well.

What a healthy way to start the weekend proper!

PS: Will be getting my new tennis racket later. Can't wait to try. Hope the feeling is great :)

Friday

It's friday morning and I missed my company bus. Right now I'm on e train.. Making my daily journey from e east to e west. Train isn't crowded today, actually managed to get a seat in Je station. What a rarity.

People are not moving to e carriage centre and it's irritating me. People can't get on the train so why can't they move in? Ok I just saw a pregnant lady but she's kind of far away from me... So unless she comes closer else I will still stick to my seat. Ok... I just gave up my seat to her... Two aunties actually took empty seats in front of e pregnant lady and feel indifferent about it. Gosh...

Ok now I wonder if this entry from my phone will make it my blog in real time.. Will find out tonight.

Pressing on Ahead...

First and foremost, an update to my driving test Take 2 result. I failed. This time circuit was good, no demerit points. However, it was pretty bad on the road. As I intentionally slow down this time round to avoid any costly mistakes, it turned out my slower driving and constant looking around conveyed an unprepared and nervous impression to the tester. These by themselves were alright in fact. It was the road pedestrians that cost me my heaviest penalty this time round. Can't blame them, shouldn't blame them and don't want to blame them. Next test scheduled in Nov. In about 7 weeks time. Not far away. Going to try harder this time.

My level 2 tennis lesson is ending soon, with the last lesson on Monday. I am more and more into tennis. What a sports... loving it more as I grasp more of the right techniques. I am going to restring my current racket. Do not particularly like my current tension. Moreover, it has been the same string since my sister bought for me like 5 years back? How much am I into tennis? I kind of get excited whenever I see a tennis court. haha... It's to that extent. Of course, it must be a nice brightly lit court. I have seen some real poorly maintained courts. The nets comes with holes, the flood light is not working and those working ones are real dim. The court playing areas have cracked with tree roots or something popping out of it. It just puts the player off. Do not even feel the urge to play.

Time for gym session. Due to work and other commitments, i have no time for workout and such. Now time to hit the gym and maybe vent my anger for failing my TP. Haha... But I will be safe.

Driving Test Take 2

Yap, coming up this Friday. How would it go? I will have completed just 3 practice sessions prior to the test. That is a little too few isn't it.

Pray hard!

The Circle line

I took the Circle Line today! Not too bad I must say. Probably because everything is new, so they look pretty impressive. Only 4-5 stations in the circle line are operational as of now with more stations to be commissioned for service by end of June 2010. The remaining are scheduled to open in 2011. Looking forward to those that will be ready by 2011 such as Holland Village, West Coast, Botanical Gdn to name a few. With train gg down, it will make these places so much more accessible.

And the trains used for circle line are actually much shorter than the ones we have now for the other lines (EWL and NEL). They only have 3 cabins ie 2 rubbery connectors when viewed from the outside. I didn't know that!

Picture of the Circle Line Sign
No one saw me taking, else might just wonder what's so special abt the sign.

One of the station I board from (forgot its name)
Picture taken from my not so good HTC 3G phone. No auto focus, ineffective zoom. Sigh!

A time for everything... Rest

Finally I got to rest this weekend. Not because I have planned for it, but rather because I had to. I was down from mild food poisoning that had made me so sick on Friday night that I had to push away 2 important events over the weekend.

The first was a volunteering event for the launch of EMIT, which is a series of program Student Care Services (SCS) is organizing in celebration of Youth Olympics Games happening next year. After so much planning and coordination, it's kind of a pity I could not be down on the actual event. The second event was for the children church service which my cell mates and I had promised to help out. Essentially it's to give the teachers a break while we take over the whole program, from the worship session to the activities that follow next.

Maybe I kind of packed too much into my life these days. Too much to the extent of not having time to rest. With the recent surge in workload, i guess that kind of made me more vulnerable to sickness. So in a way, I am thankful for the "rest" i had this weekend. The surprising thing is that I am recovering pretty fast, and hope I will be fully recharged and rejuvenated by Monday to face the new week ahead. Of course, I must now learn to say yes only to selective invitations and not to all that comes my way.

Limitations

You are in a bath-tub with warm water. Every few minutes, the water temperature increases by 1 degree Celsius. You know the water is getting hotter as your skin tells you so.

But the question is...when do you know the water is too hot and unbearable and you need to shout STOP?!? When is too much, too much?

A new Drum beginning

I have officially withdrawn from Yamaha and have moved on to a new drum school - My Drum School (That's the name)

Looking back, I have not learn much during my 2-3 yrs in Yamaha. Thou I did acquired some valuable skills like reading drum scores, proper sticks handling, basic rhythmic beats and simple fill-ins, but it seems to have stagnant off after a while. I have to admit my laziness and lack of discipline in practising is largely why I haven't been improving much. But somehow I feel the lack of inspiration and dull teaching method from my drum teacher played a part too. Now that I have moved on to a new environment, I hope to be more inspired and motivated to really master my drum. Then I can move on to the next instrument. Have in fact eyed on the next instrument that I want to learn. Haha... Greedy me.

Matthew 28:18-20

It was a new experience. My first taste of Matthew 28:18-20. And it was a rich experience :)

Packed with a tint of uncertainty, I met up with my cell mates early Sat morning to head for Tanah Merah Station to board our scheduled 9am ferry. Not too long after, we were in Bintan. But instead of the usual route holiday makers head for, we were on our way to the villages where homes of the local residents are.

Prior to our trip, we met up several times to discuss, improve and confirm our plans. We divided ourselves into 2 main groups - YA and Children. But much of our plannings were disrupted as the original schedules were totally changed. We had to improvise and make changes on ground. But through it all, all 13 of us never really complained. That was something brought to my attention thru another friend's entry. We spent whatever time we have doing the necessary changes, making sure all aspects are covered and that the programs can still run smoothly. Sat & sun came and gone past. Our activities were smoothly executed. People attended the evening service. Some were believers while others are yet to be. I sensed all of them thoroughly enjoyed the programs we planned. This is evident from the wonderful time of singing and worshipping. Our volume that sat night in the cosy room of that one house in the midst of a village in Bintan must have been comparable to our singing back home every sunday morning. Testimonies were shared & message was delivered, despite the inadequacy of the people performing them. But through our weakness, that is where God works, turning our weakness into Strength and bringing glory to His name. The testimonies and message shine forth God's glory. Many hearts were touched as evident from the tears shed through prayers and sharing which took place over dinner.

After a night of rest, Sunday came. This morning was scheduled solely for the children. We were late as we made our way over from the motel. When our bus reached, the hordes of children were already beaming in delight. Many were actually here with their parents the night before. Once again, there were unexpected changes. The children team has to improvise on the spot. But with cooperation and initiatives by everyone, things fell in place nicely. The kids have so much fun and I think some of us had as much fun as them. It is really hard to match the kids' enjoyment over the programs planned forth. "Gold" coins treasure hunt, poison ball/monkey game, songs and dance segments... these are just some of the activities. The kids in Bintan love it!

It was a short trip but with huge experience for me. As we leave for the ferry terminal, it must have been a prayer in many of our hearts that seeds were sow over these 2 days and that God will continue to shine and touch hearts in this place of the earth.

The Troopers

Driving Test

It's tmr. Starting to feel a little ner-bers liao.

Update tmr!


Verdict: Idiotic Kerb!!!

Dullness

Work load been super heavy these days.

Doesn't help when u r having comm problem w ur Boss.

Drained & tire out for now!

Let me get thru this period and I will see how it shd goes from here.

Kind of looking forward to next monday now for I'm taking a day off for driving test.

Good luck to me and I really need that day of rest.

Self-awareness weekend

This weekend has been badly disrupted by money issue. I was frustrated by the headache it has brought me. What a seemingly small problem which has enormous power to disturb. Thinking back on the whole issue, I come to realize that bulk of the frustration was at myself. I have failed to take a clear stand from the start. I will leave the details out as this issue has not really been settled yet.

If anything good was to come out of this episode, I think a better understanding of myself would be it. Slowly, I am learning more about myself. The good, the nice, the ugly, the ashamed, the fake, the truth & whatever I do not know about myself yet. This seems like part of the answer to my prayer sometime back.

Whatever it is, I pray for God's grace to truly accept all that He is showing me.

Fruits Day

After PnP in church, a bunch of us were down Mike house for fruits party. We had in mind bags of spiky durians and mangosteens. But who knows Singaporeans' craving for durians is exceptionally high on Friday night, all the durians were practically swept off the racks by 10pm. So us, upon reaching there at 10plus, were left with the expensive "Mao San Wang" durians. In the end, we have to compromise buying the styrofoam packed durians. We bought a combinations of $3, $5 & $12/pack durians, along with mangosteens and rambutans. The latter 2 are courtesy of Ruby. We spent the remaining of the night slavouring the 3 fruits variety we have at Mike's Condo park. Nice place for fruits party. Would be better if it's a little more windy thou.

That's my Friday evening!

Volunteering

A few of my close friends have just jumped on the volunteering wagon. Hope they will find it as fulfilling and meaningful as I had find it to be.

V aluable is the work you do.
O utstanding is how you always come through.
L oyal, sincere and full of good cheer.
U ntiring in your efforts throughout the year.
N otable are the contributions you make.
T rustworthy in every project you take.
E ager to reach your every goal.
E ffective in the way you fulfill your role.
R eady with a smile like a shining star,
S pecial and wonderful - that's what you are.

Unsettled

After reservist back to work, somehow I was not able to click with my Boss anymore. We are having communication issues, that's e best I can describe. I am still figuring out the root reason. Sometimes people tend to simplify issues and generalize things. Oh it's due to this that's why this happens. But I like to dig deeper into the truth. The real reason behind things.. I am on a quest for truth. Pertaining to the comm problem w my boss, i am trying to see if i can understand some truth from it.

Sometimes lies are so abound that truth does not seem like the truth at all. It seems weird when u show people the truth. But I truly believe truth sets people free, that's why I am still in this conquest for the truth.

Okay, I half understand what I just typed. gg to grab some sleep.

Busy work week ahead. Weekend seems packed already. No time for quality rest again.

Chalet June 09

Last weekend was my family chalet. It has become a tradition over the years. All my relatives from my mum's side would spent 3-4 days at Downtown East Chalet in Pasir Ris. I was down for a night from Fri til Sat.

Actually it has gotten a bit boring as we would do the same things over again every year. There is the usual BBQ, cycling, jackpot, tv in room, slack... For someone my age, these ain't appealing things to do over a precious weekend. However, I also realised these are the things which one would miss when we grow older. And they are still meaningful in their own sense... So that's why I was down. Haha.. even thou it was just for 1D1N.

We had BBQ and it was great. I had 2-3 big pc of Chicken Chop, several sticks of satay and prawn, more sticks of vege-mixed-bacons&mushrooms, raw carrot, some rice, some stewed pork and I can't rem already... Was down Kbox with 2 cousins. Havent sung for so long. I think my singing improved. haha... Or rather I am beginning to dare to sing, so it sounded better. Something like that lah...

Wanted to catch a movie, but show and timing didn't fit. Ended up cycling by myself round pasir ris park. I must say pasir ris park is small... didn't realised that before. So much smaller than ECP. Took me 30mins to cycle the entire length. And i wasn't speeding.. Since rental was for 1 hour, so took time to stroll by the beach. haha... more of admiring the 1.5m length beach. It was high tide. Some photos i took.

My Bike

1.5metres width beach

My shadow

Can you spot the mud-skipper-like fish?

On with the race

Life is still full of excitement these days.

1) Driving test scheduled on 20th July morning. Not too far from now. Need to step up on my lessons to be even more comfortable on road and in circuits. Heard some stories on trembling legs on the test itself. Hope I need not experience that.

2) I have switched to individual drum lessons. Increased fees for lesser time. Doesn't really make sense does it? But if it yield results, then it's proven to be worth it. Time will tell.

3) Working out often lately. Feeling good. Want to run as often too.

4) Walking as close to God as I can. The excitement that can stem from this close relationship is beyond words.

5) Trying to get back on the smooth track at work. Having been away for 3 wks, I needed some adjustments. Not sure how long before it's time for me to move on, but anticipating and looking forward to new challenges.

6) Looking forward to a possible holiday. But with the H1N1 looming in the air, it can be pretty restrictive. Have no place in mind yet too. But it's still possible =D

Just don't let unnecessary worrying and pessimism overshadow it.

While I'm Waiting

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Takeing every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord

Holiday

21 days adventure is ending soon. Good start, progressed well. Let's finish it equally well too.

I am yearning for a holiday. Something like NZ one would be nice, but it's unlikely. But something of that nature will be good enough.

Let the planning start =)

Seeing clearly

Had a chill out session with some of my cell group mates last night. It was an impromptu session as I was craving for some chilling sessions after slogging out for the past many days. We were down to this pub in Jalan Jurong Kechil and I personally quite fancy it. Simple cosy setting, no crowds, serve beers (along with many other liquors), reasonable prices, cheap food (free food on certain days!!), entertainment facilities (Pool table, dart board, photo hunt machine....), direct bus from my house.... It's definitely a nice alternative to the usual crowded places.

But perhaps I was too tired out from the driving session and past week activities, had a bad driving lesson and I was falling asleep during the church service the next day :(

On a different note, I think I am beginning to see more of the hidden hurdles in my life. The things that keep tripping me as I attempt to walk and run the race. But s I have done before, I am determined to overcome these hurdles. Not by my might but by Yours.

21 days adventure

Update 1:

One third through my 21 days adventure. Not slack at all. But I am able to handle the responsibilities so far. Thank You Lord.

I wanted to spend some time reconsidering my career direction but because of the tight schedule, there isn't much time to do that. But this period away from work is really timely as I was beginning to feel the dullness of my daily work creeping into me and losing the drive to excel in my work. Hopefully when I return to work, I will have the right attitude to deliver in my area of work again

Sunday evening

Date has been confirmed for my Driving Test. Scheduled on 20th July 2009. I must admit it's pretty soon considering my first lesson was on 1st March. But after some calculation, i will have completed at least 21 lessons by then, so should be ready i guess. The only concern now is my circuit. Having some troubles with certain courses in circuit and have not yet been exposed to BBDC circuit. I will need more circuit lessons to be more steady and zai.

Have been working out lately, thks to motivation from some frens and (must give myself credits) self-discipline. Not really been running, but keen to develop a habit for that as well. All gym no run is not a good idea. And there's tennis too. Have been playing rather often with some uni frens.. luckily for them, no lack of tennis khakis. So tennis passion is still gg strong. Strokes seems to be improving but more practises can only be more beneficial. Have got some opportunities to play at cousin's place too. But Yew Tee a bit inacessible.. Still like my fren's CCK condo court best. Bright lightings with clean courts. Also lately played once from 10-12plus mid-day, and liking the combi of playing tennis while sun-tanning. Simply great!

Coming weeks will be back to army life. 3 weeks to be precise. Got to adjust lifestyle for this period. Hope it will be a ful-filling 3 weeks in camp. It will be a break from work and perhaps it's a good time for me to consider my career direction. Where to move next when I am moving.

Changes

It's 12:34am and I am still awake. There's a high chance of me missing company bus tmr liao.

Changes are abound these days. They keep coming my way and I keep accepting them. Thou its out of my comfort zone, I m trying because I see them as essential and beneficial in the long run. But I do know I have to filter all that comes my way for not all are good for me. This reminds me of a bible verse but i forgot which one =S

Actually changes are seldom comfortable. We often prefer the as-is state where everything is familiar and nice and warm and fuzzy. But often times if we dare to accept the changes, the end result in the long run is actually good. I shall keep this in mind for now.

Shall sleep liao. Nitez!

Alive

I am still alive.

In case u r wondering why the past few entries may seems a little life-less.

Was in the midst of sorting out some thoughts... and there's no mood to blog.

But things seems to be aligned and in focus again.

I shall let the Truth be my guiding light.


PS: My final Theory Driving test this Friday. Pray I would pass and proceed to book my TP.

Update: Passed!!! TP Next.

Desert Song

This is my prayer in the desert
When all that's within me feels dry
This is my prayer in my hunger in me
My God is a God who provides

And this is my prayer in the fire
In weakness or trial or pain
There is a faith proved
Of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flames

Chorus:
And I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon forged against me shall remain

I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here


And this is my prayer in the battle
When triumph is still on it's way
I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I'll stand

Bridge:
All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship


This is my prayer in the harvest
When favor and providence flow
I know I'm filled to be empited again
The seed I've recieved I will sow

Johor Bahru 2.0

Last weekend was my 2nd time to JB. For Go-kart, Paint Ball and good food =D

This time round was down with my Uni mates. 17 of us. One of the strongest turnout we had for any outing. Haha... Thx Lemon, Ms Tan and WK for organising.

Our Karts lined up

Group Pix after the race. Somehow the Kart looks pretty small here.

Our next stop was lunch at this coffee shop place. We all ordered a variety of food consisting of Chr Kway Teow, Wanton Mee, Bak Kut Teh and small mini egg tart (freshly baked on the spot and each only cost 50cents RM. Cheap lah...). It was a satisfying cheap meal.

Next was paintball. But the sky turned dark and started raining a short while into our game. The rain drenched our body and mood. We played for just 10 mins before packing up and heading back to City Square for dinner. The rain had make the ground muddy and not conducive for playing.

PaintBall Venue

All geared in long sleeve

Our playing ground

We spent some time shopping around City Square after dinner. Actually it's more of comparing prices of stuff against Singapore's. I managed to grab a good buy for contact lenses solution. Haha. In all, a good JB trip =D

What's so good about Friday?

If you do not fully comprehend the meaning of Good Friday, this following clip extracted from a movie called "Most The Movie" may help you experience a glimpse of God's love for us.

On Good Friday, a Saviour die for us.
On Easter Sunday, He rose to give us hope.

Good Friday Weekend

It's eve of Good Friday and I am in office. Got some last minute assignments which need to be done by Monday. Therefore decided to stay back and finish whatever I can so my weekend will be "intact". Have got some plans for the weekend already so also wouldn't leave much time for work. Sat will be JB day as me and my uni mates will be down for Go-kart and Paintball.

Anyway, changes are happening these days as I attempt to grip my tired hands and strengthen my weak knees to walk on. I ain't sure what will be next but I will just keep on trusting.

Updates

I have been spending more time at home lately. Partly because I have been clearing some of my past year leaves which expire end March. So I have the luxury to wake up later on those days. Morning run and gym are becoming the norms during these off days. Haha..

Driving is ongoing and I will be having my 4th lesson this Sunday. Glad to have liaised with the instructor for Sunday morning lesson before my church service. Will also have time for breakfast before the service starts... Everything in place. Swee Swee =D So far so good I would say. Let's hope I learn fast enough and be able to pass on my first attempt and without the need to renew my PDL. But for now I would need to clear my advanced theory first. Scheduled on 24th April.

Oh and I am playing drum for children service again in April. Looking forward. This time with another of my cell mate playing the guitar too. hah... cool lah. Still looking forward to playing in adult service sometime in the future... Near future I hope.

The Race

To run the race well, i cannot afford to carry too many baggage.

Dropping my baggage requires courage.

I am still mustering.

Random phone shots

The above 3 shots are taken in the morning while waiting for my company bus. At a bus stop near JE interchange. Thankful that I do not need to wrestle with the morning crowd for public transport and at the same time get to see such beautiful sight in the industrial-laden Jurong area.

"Sakura" tree with my company as the backdrop. This is the only tree with purple flowers alongside the whole row of other trees which make it stand out. Really a pretty sight.

Taken from my colleague's car as we stopped for the red light. Just nice the colour contrast is there and the angle was right =D

This is the snack table in my office. We all get our calories from here.

One of the flower pot outside my house. This is of miniature size.

Taken from my room on one of the recent thunderstorm days.

Left over shape from a round bday cake after we self-service using spoons.

At my friend's tennis court

Sore-throaty feeling

Just last night my throat was feeling a little funny. This morning when I woke up the sore throat feeling is there. Pretty acute.. Likely to develop into a flu or sth. Shucks!

NYAA chapter 1 closure

Yesterday was down at SCS clementi for a lunch session with Theresa and the youths from NYAA. Up til now, some have achieved all the requirements for the NYAA Bronze award while others are still clocking the required hours, but definitely not too far off. Having gone through various activities with them, it's glad to see them hanging on to the challenges and come this far.

The first session

Journey started with name brain-storming

Community service at Kranji Resort

Working hand-in-hand


Having fun clearing field for rice planting =P


All in line ready for action

Southern Ridges Hike + Game

River Crossing game just b4 Henderson Wave


The GOAL at the end of river-crossing

The "last" session at SCS

Victory sign comes up naturally

Affirmation cards for Youth, volunteers and Social Worker =P

Up next, as the youth continue to pursue for the silver award, I definitely hope to be part of this exciting journey they will undertake. I believe such programs have far-reaching impact on the participants lives which the youth themselves may not know or experience now. Similarly, I believe Theresa, Mel, JJ and myself certainly learned much through this program and had fun going through all the activities with them.