Debbie's Scribbles

It's Christmas time again!

2011-12-14T21:53:00.007+08:00

December's my favourite month of the year! I love seeing pretty Christmas decorations and listening to Christmas carols playing at the malls. Not forgetting shopping for presents...more window shopping this year as we need to budget for our baby! Can't resist snapping pictures everywhere I go. Here are some of them :)

Hubby and I attended a wedding at Prince Hotel last weekend

Christmas deco at home

Christmas at the malls! TL - 1 Utama, TR - Pavillion KL,
BL - Prince Hotel, BR - The Curve

Even as we celebrate Christmas this year let's not forget the real meaning of Christmas.

She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins. Matthew 1:21

It's a boy!

2011-11-10T17:39:00.006+08:00

I haven't written for ages! There have been quite a lot of changes in my life over the past few months. 4 months ago, I found out I was expecting. What a surprise! One of my prayers after that was, 'Thank You Lord for having the confidence in us to take care of a child!'

Thank God, the first trimester wasn't that bad, I didn't really have morning sickness but felt tired most of the time. Some days, I could lay in bed all day. I was also as hungry as a horse all the time and had food cravings. My cravings were for my usual favourites - nasi lemak and spicy food!

I was off to Sydney for 2.5 weeks when I entered my second trimester and spent some quality time with my relatives there. I've wanted to revisit Australia since I last went in 2006, and took the opportunity when my cousin Mindy said she was going in October. Morever, I must go before the baby arrives.

I'm now 20 weeks pregnant and we've found out that it's a boy! Hubby and I are getting more excited now, and I have recently begun to feel the baby kicking inside me. There are lots to prepare for, and I really have no experience taking care of babies, so I need to learn as much as I can and keep my ears open to advice from experienced moms.

I really thank God for His blessing as children are a gift from Him. And even as our family grows, hubby and I must always remember to teach our children to love Him wholeheartedly.

Here are some pics from my Sydney trip:-

Sunbathing kangaroos in Sydney Wildlife World

My new found friend Rory from the dog park

Pancakes on the Rocks... real yummy!

Having a feast

And the classic... koala bear :)

Bersih 2.0

2011-07-12T18:08:00.003+08:00

Something extraordinary happened in Kuala Lumpur on 9 July 2011. Thousands of Malaysians came out on the streets of the capital to demand for clean and fair elections. They had 8 simple requests:-

1. Remove dead people and multiples of the same person from the electoral list
2. Postal ballot open and transparent to all
3. Use ink that cannot be erased in vote casting
4. A minimum 21 day campaign period so that voters can better weigh their choices
5. Fair media coverage to all parties (not just the government)
6. Public institutions (judiciary, police, etc.) must be impartial in upholding the law and human rights
7. Stop corruption
8. Stop dirty politics

So the Bersih 2.0 committee organised a peaceful street rally and welcomed citizens who supported it to join it. Unfortunately, the government declared the assembly illegal and got everything prepared for the citizens on the day.

The videos below show what happened on 9 July 2011.

It saddens and shocks me to see the government spraying tear gas and water cannons at their own citizens. The citizens just wanted impartiality and the right to exercise democracy properly in the country they belong to.

I feel proud that Malaysians have the courage to stand up for righteousness and I will continue to pray for a country where truth and justice prevails.

Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people. Proverbs 14:34

Canvas Painting

2011-05-31T22:57:00.005+08:00

The wonderful thing about not having a nine to five job is that I get to do anything I want during a weekday. I met a friend for lunch at the mall today and checked out my favourite art shop after that.

Lo and behold, there were stacks of white canvases in different shapes... just waiting to be painted on. I couldn't resist the temptation of creating my own masterpiece and bought a square canvas and a set of acrylic paint.

Upon arriving home, I excitedly got my palette, brushes, water and rag cloth ready and started painting my classic 'heart'. The 'heart' was created in Adobe Illustrator previously, and not on canvas yet.

So I started sketching... and painting. 4 hours later, I was done. Here's my 'heart' on canvas.

Nursery Visit

2011-05-28T23:52:00.007+08:00

Stephanie and I went plant shopping in Sungai Buloh a few days ago. Steph's the perfect person to go nursery hopping with as she knows everything you need to know about plants! Do check out her very interesting blog here and nursery directory here.

Thanks to Steph's advice, I managed to choose a few hardy plants that won't wither so easily.

We also took lots of pretty pictures... here are some of them.

Holiday Home Updates

2011-05-28T09:24:00.017+08:00

It's been nearly a year since we started Holiday Home Malaysia. I'm really glad we started this and we've had guests from UK, USA, Russia, Australia, Russia, Canada, Thailand, Philippines, Hong Kong, Singapore and of course Malaysia so far.

There have been many memorable guests, such as a Russian family whom we communicated with via email even after they arrived because we couldn't understand each other verbally and so needed the Russian - English translator on the internet.

I really thank God because He has blessed and guided us tremendously through this new endeavour and it has been an eye-opening and enjoyable experience for us.

Thoo and I are constantly thinking of how we can improve the place and feedback from our guests have been really helpful. Recently, we've added new bedlinen, DVDs, kitchen utensils, plants, a clothes rack and more cushions.

Here are the latest pictures.

Dog's Miraculous Rescue

2011-04-05T14:50:00.006+08:00

A dog was miraculously rescued from the sea yesterday, 3 weeks after the devastating earthquake and tsunami destroyed his home. What an incredible miracle!

She was even reunited with her overjoyed owner soon after!

Amazing stories like these really warm my heart and I'm so inspired by the people who made it happen - a thumbs up to the coast guards for their incredible rescue!

Japan's Tsunami

2011-03-17T16:16:00.007+08:00

A massive earthquake and tsunami struck Japan last Friday and as of today, over 3000 people are confirmed dead and more than 8000 missing. The world is growing very concerned about the nuclear reactors that have malfunctioned at Fukushima, exposing dangerous levels of radiation into the atmosphere. The lives of thousands of Japanese people have been changed in a split second.

I'm touched reading about how the Japanese have maintained their good values during this time of adversity, helping and encouraging each other to remain strong. I really feel for them, and am praying for God to bring healing to this nation. May the whole world stand united in helping Japan.

Here are some pictures from the internet (courtesy of CNN, Getty Images and unidentified sources):-

Christmas Mood

2010-12-14T20:39:00.004+08:00

It's my favourite time of the year.... brightly lit Christmas trees everywhere, Christmas carols playing in the shopping malls and lots of people in holiday mood. December is a time to be thankful for all God has blessed me with :)

The Christmas decorations in Kuala Lumpur are getting better each year. Here's what I've seen so far...

Snow @ Pavilion

Giant Christmas tree @ The Curve

Reindeers @ Pavilion

Cosy little Christmas town @ 1 Utama

In the midst of all the activity around me, I must never forget the one and only reason for the season...God coming to earth in the form of Jesus Christ to bring salvation to us.

Footprints of Faith

2010-09-17T18:06:00.006+08:00

It's been nearly 2 months since I started working in the advertising industry again. Pretty exciting I would say, and challenging at the same time. There's so much for me to catch up on! Nevertheless, I think I've settled in quite comfortably. Met some nice colleagues too.

There were times when it was particularly challenging, especially when meeting difficult and demanding clients. I was quite turned off by a few of the irate and rude ones, but am getting used to it - reminding myself not to take things too personally.

I'm glad I took this step of faith. I did look back initially, thinking about the comforts of being where I was, as opposed to being in an unfamiliar place and out of the comfort zone. It was scary at times, especially when demands were high and I didn't really have a clue about what I was supposed to do.

It's during these times that I've prayed the hardest and really had to depend on God. And to take tiny steps as He leads, knowing that He was and is always in control. There have been pleasant surprises along the way, and God is opening my eyes to new experiences each day.

New Chapter Begins

2010-07-17T16:41:00.004+08:00

The past 3 months has been quite a whirlwind. Not chaotic, but just really exciting and fun! The 3 month break after resigning was very timely for me as it enabled me to rest and do the things I enjoyed - travelling, cooking and even starting a guest house. I'm starting work again next week. It's quite a surprise actually, I didn't expect myself to start a full-time job so soon. However, I felt that this was an offer I had to take and a blessing from God as it was much better than my expectations!

It's nice being able to relax, read and watch tv at home alone on weekdays but I realised that life is more meaningful and colourful when you share it with others. Having people around makes you appreciate life more and see things from a different perspective. I know I have a lot to learn at my new workplace and I'm looking forward to this new chapter of my life.

God is full of surprises! I asked him for new experiences, and He told me to empty my cup. So I did, and now He's given me more than I imagined. I've learnt that when God says something, we have to obey Him and step out of the comfort zone at times because that is when growth happens.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

Holiday Home Malaysia

2010-06-16T08:31:00.006+08:00

When I was young, I had this dream of running a guest house. After I got married last year, a friend took short breaks at my house for her 'quiet retreats'. It was then that I realised I really enjoyed hosting people.

Recently, hubby and I invested in a property near our house, and we thought of moving there as its a class higher than our current place. I really like where we're staying at as we have a great view of the forest now, and the air is so fresh! So we decided to stay put.

We didn't want to just rent out the new place, but use it to be a blessing to others too. So introducing our new endeavour, Holiday Home Malaysia, a holiday home for people around the world.

The Courtyard

The bedroom

The Kitchen

The Living Room

More details at http://www.holidayhomemalaysia.com and http://holidayhomemalaysia.blogspot.com

Nepal

2010-05-07T18:54:00.012+08:00

I'm back! Haven't written for the longest time. Quite a lot has happened over the past month or so, the most exciting being my Nepal trip.

There were 6 of us in the team and we were there for 9 days. This was my fourth Nepal mission trip, and the toughest of all - physically and spiritually. I can't possibly relate everything that happened there.. so here are some highlights.

One of the places we went to was Bhugdeu, a small village in the mountains. We endured 2 hours of a gruelling bumpy jeep ride to get there. Like all other villages in Nepal, the houses were made of mud by the men of the house with the help of their neighbours.

The kids were adorable as always, and most of them had large holes on their soiled clothes, which seemed thin and not warm enough for the weather there. One thing was consistent throughout the days we were there - the beautiful smile on their faces and the clothes they wore. They didn't seem to have ever changed their clothes. They were dirty too, and didn't seem to have bathed for a long time. When we stuck stickers on their hands, a layer of dirt would be peeled off when the stickers dropped off, revealing much fairer skin!

I did children's work together with Andrea and Fui Ping and we had fun teaching the children action songs, bible stories and doing a puppet show! The children at that village seemed a little slow to learn but I was really touched by their enthusiasm. They were so excited when we gave them little gifts like a miniature harmonica, pens and hairclips.

Meanwhile, Dr Jade, together with Alvin (her husband) and Steve did medical work. It's tough for many of them to get medical help when they're located so far away from the city, so we brought the doctor and medicine to them instead. We also had the help of 2 translators from Kathmandu, Dipesh and Kanchan.

A few of us, including myself, fell ill towards the end of the trip. Moreover, I was itching from over 100 bed bug bites on my body. However, God sustained us throughout and we were still joyful and managed to do some shopping on the last day!

When I came back to Malaysia, I appreciated my life a lot more - the education I received, the comforts of my home and my family. At the same time, I missed the kids in Bhugdeu...

This trip opened my eyes once again to God's great love for the weaker, the poorer and the forgotten. We can never comprehend the awesome depth of His love and I thank God for the opportunity to be used as His vessel to bring His love and truth to the people of Nepal.

Busy Busy!

2010-03-17T15:21:00.004+08:00

I haven't written for awhile because I'm pretty busy at work (my last month), attending weddings and preparing for my trip to Nepal.

Anyway, just want to share this awesome drama I found on the internet. A powerful way of communicating the power of Jesus Christ. At the name of Jesus, all demons flee. May you be blessed by it.

Little Miracles

2010-03-04T20:35:00.009+08:00

Sometimes little miracles happen in our lives when we least expect it, putting a smile to our face and a splash of colour to our daily lives. It happened to me last week.

I went for Andrew and Lizzie's BBQ last Sunday night, and their house is a short drive away from my parents house.

Whilst we were chatting, Lizzie mentioned that a dog had been hanging around her area for the past 2 days, and she seemed to be lost. We searched for the dog and found her afraid, keeping a distance from us. I thought I recognised the dog as one of Spottie's friends that he visits everytime he goes on his evening walk.

I finally got her near me, and she seemed quite friendly. We fed her some sausages and water as she was very hungry. She went off after we fed her and we went home after that.

The next day I visited my parents and thought I'd look for the house where there was a similar looking dog to the one the night before. I went to a few houses, and the owners said they didn't lose a dog. Then I checked the photo I took of her recently, and matched the gate design to find the right house.

I finally found the house, and asked the resident whether he had lost a dog. He said he did! I quickly drove them to find the dog, and they were joyfully reunited! Everyone including the dog was jumping with joy!

This has been a really awesome experience. I believe that God gives us divine appointments in ways that make us happy :) And this reminds me that even little actions that are kind can bring much joy to people and animals. We must never turn a blind eye when we have all it takes to make a difference.

CNY Travels

2010-02-22T11:33:00.005+08:00

Haven't written for over a week! CNY was pretty hectic with all the travelling from the 1st day till the 5th day. Hubby and I travelled to Seremban on the 1st day, then Bukit Tinggi on the 2nd day, and Penang on the 3rd day. Thankfully traffic wasn't that bad on the highways.

I began to have a mild cough before CNY (possibly because I ate 1 mandarin orange a day) so I bought a cough syrup from the pharmacy so that it wouldn't worsen. Unfortunately, the cough worsened and I nearly lost my voice. Went to a clinic on the 1st day and got charged RM70 for a 1 minute consultation. I'm not exaggerating. While I was still waiting for my medication, the doctor went home!

CNY was fun nevertheless... here are some pictures.

Below: Penang - Oli & Jon at a coffeeshop having cendol

Below: Hubby & me at another cendol place

Below: The beautiful sunset at Teluk Kumbar

Below: Brenda, Oli & myself having a fun time taking pics

Below: Seremban - Grandma's house

Below: Playing mah jong with my relatives

Below: Hubby's side of the family

Below: The reunion dinner

Happy Chinese New Year!

2010-02-12T15:40:00.006+08:00

Chinese New Year is just around the corner.. in 2 days time to be exact, coinciding with Valentines Day. Here's wishing all my Chinese friends around the world a Happy Chinese New Year and Valentines Day :)

This year's CNY is gonna be quite different for me as I will be having the reunion dinner with hubby's family (instead of my family) on CNY eve. I will miss being with my family and relatives, but am also looking forward to this new experience at hubby's side. Of course, I'll see my family and relatives on the first day of CNY. I'm thankful that our families don't live across the seas, so we get to see them pretty often.

I'm looking forward to get to know hubby's relatives more, and hopefully try to remember how to address them accordingly in Cantonese - first aunty, second aunty, first uncle's wife, etc etc. Really hope I don't embarass myself since my Cantonese is 'one of a kind'. I like to refer to 'kau fu' (uncle) as 'lou fu' (tiger) so 'tai kau fu' (big uncle) becomes 'tai lou fu' (big tiger). Similarly, hubby's gotta remember how to address my relatives in Hokkien! He always gets them wrong...and cracks me up.

Gotta pack ang pows tonight... first year of giving ang pows too!

Eukanuba Prebiotics

2010-02-08T23:15:00.013+08:00

My dog Spottie has a strange hobby and skill. He enjoys catching flies and gobbling them down...alive. This skill requires great precision in timing and leaping. Spottie's hobby amuses yet exasperates my family at the same time. Due to his rather large quantity of fly consumption, he gets diahhrea once in a while. Recently, he got a serious bout of it and thankfully, recovered in a few days.

Eukanuba has recently introduced a new line of dog food that helps Spottie's kind of situation -Prebiotics. Prebiotics help the intestine better absorb nutrients to keep out toxins and viruses and promote overall health and wellbeing. This results in a healthier digestive system and reduced incidence or severity of irritable bowel syndrome. Prebiotics also combat bad bacteria, thus increasing immunity.

Its vital that dogs are given the extra immunity when it comes to their diet. They consume large quantities of bacteria everyday through licking floors, eating grass (when they're ill), gobbling wierd substances while out on their walks, etc. Like the saying goes, prevention is better than cure.

Thanks to Eukanuba, my dogs can continue to be strong and healthy! To know more about Eukanuba Prebiotics, click here.

Smiling Dog

2010-02-03T17:49:00.002+08:00

2 dog videos for today! Here's a very cute video of a dog in Japan that can actually smile :)

Surf Dog Ricochet

2010-02-03T12:20:00.002+08:00

Was looking through my mailbox today and saw an email from last month that I had missed out. I accidentally clicked on the link and saw this amazing video!

It's so inspiring to see that even a dog could achieve great things with his God-given abilities. It would be awesome if I could become a dog-trainer too. Wonder whether there opportunities to do that in Malaysia.

Rat! (It's a long story!)

2010-01-28T11:13:00.010+08:00

I spent last night at my parent's house because Spottie wasn't well and I wanted to spend time with him. He was having diahhrea on Monday and he ate grass while on his walks. We suspect that he must've accidentally eaten some poison too, because he started purging blood that night.

My parents took him to the UPM Veterinary Hospital in the morning. Spottie didn't want to eat anything but instead drank lots of water. I was really worried and prayed like crazy! When I went home yesterday evening, he was already back to his normal self! Praise God! :)

I hadn't been staying at my parent's house for the past few months so Spottie doesn't sleep in my room anymore. Instead, he's moved to the space in front of dad's home office.

I went to bed around midnight, after watching lots of Astro (deprived of it after marriage) and went to my room. I closed the door, and suddenly noticed something black scurrying around! I had locked a rat in with me in my room. I was mortified! I jumped on my bed, opened the door, closed the door behind me (like an Olympian) and ran to tell my parents that I had locked a rat in my room.

So my dad took a mouse trap and put it inside my room. Meanwhile, I watched some more tv, hoping that the rat would quickly go inside the trap. An hour later, I went to check. No rat in the trap. Dad said that he's going to leave the mouse trap in my room, and I can just go to bed. Horror of horrors! But dad was serious.

Off I went to Spottie... begging him to sleep in my room (the best rat deterrent). But he was comfortable where he was, in front of dad's office. I begged and begged, but Spottie would have nothing of it. He's a big dog so if he doesn't budge, you can't make him.

So I mustered all my courage, crept into my bed whilst looking suspiciously everywhere... and went to bed. I don't know where the rat is, but I hope its not in my room anymore!!

Grandma turns 92

2010-01-25T21:03:00.007+08:00

My parents, hubby and I travelled south to celebrate grandma's (dad's mum) 92nd birthday yesterday. Relatives from different states gathered at grandma's house first, then off we went to a restaurant nearby for a 10 course Chinese dinner. My aunt baked a delicious Black Forest birthday cake.

I met Maggie, grandma's new adorable puppy that my aunt had given her from a new litter of puppies at her home. I thank God for blessing grandma with long life and for placing me in this family where love is so abundant.

End of Chapter

2010-01-23T11:30:00.003+08:00

I resigned from my job this week. I have been praying about this issue for over a year and not a decision I made rashly. I sense God leading me to something new and I have to take a step of faith out of the comfort zone. I will definitely miss my wonderful colleagues at DC but will continue to see them as I will still be serving as a volunteer. And I'm also glad that my senior pastor gave me his support to move on and make a positive change in the world.

It's a big step I'm taking but I feel God's assurance that I am doing the right thing and walking in His will. To put it simply, its time for God to uproot me and plant me in a bigger pot in order for me to grow further.

I have a blank canvas ready for God to paint and I'm pretty excited. My last day will be at the end of March. I'm also looking forward to going for another mission trip to Nepal in April.

It's time to end another chapter of my life and begin a fresh new one. I am fully confident of God and will put my complete trust in Him. After all, He has never failed me.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

ChargeUp 2010

2010-01-19T23:19:00.004+08:00

I had an awesome time at ChargeUp Conference 2010 organised by Livewire last week. This year was the first time they had a Visual Effects stream and I signed up for it. Was really excited to finally learn Adobe After Effects because I felt it was the missing link in my video projects. Special effects play a big role in video production these days.

Pr Sivin Kit's messages were very refreshing and relevant too, and I felt God speaking to me through his simple yet powerful messages.

God is indeed a creative God, and I've been inspired to continue to be creative for Him in touching the hearts of the people around me.

Oh please....

2010-01-13T00:16:00.009+08:00

The beginning of 2010 hasn't been that great for Malaysians as a whole. On the last day of 2009, the High Court ruled in favour of Christians using the word Allah for God. This sparked protests all over the country from some Muslims, and even caused division amongst Muslims - some supported the decision, some did not.

Over the past few days, there were arson attacks on 8 churches across the country. Thankfully, nobody was hurt. Political parties quickly condemned the attacks, and the government and Muslim NGOs offered to help and contributed towards the church rebuilding fund.

I kept wondering how God felt about all this...He must be sad. God sees our hearts and motives, and I think He would prefer it if we used all our time and energy to worship and get to know Him, do His will and learn to love each other instead of fighting over what we call Him. And He knows that though we may be passionate about fighting for justice or our rights, once this is over and done with, we might not even utter His name with a heart that loves Him.

Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. Matthew 22:37-38

2010, Here I Come

2010-01-05T23:23:00.009+08:00

I woke up on the 1st of January 2010 with a sense of excitement that it's going to be a great year with lots of changes and surprises.

I've been asking God for new experiences in my life and I feel that He will unfold them for me this year. The condition is that I have to empty my cup, because God cannot fill a cup that is already full. And I have to trust and obey Him wholeheartedly and know that His plans are much greater than anything I can imagine.

God assured me that He can use anyone and He doesn't always choose the strongest, smartest or most beautiful ones. He chooses the ones who don't think they are good enough, and He makes them top of the class. God can use me, as long as I am willing and follow Him every step of the way.

Below are the pictures of the begonia plant that I propogated last year, a little shoot has grown out from it! It is the year of new beginnings :)

Nepalese Christmas Party

2009-12-30T13:17:00.005+08:00

Hubby and I are involved in the Nepalese Ministry in church. It was started about 6 years ago by our friend Kelvin Yong who now heads the ministry. There are hundreds of thousands of Nepalese workers in Malaysia and they mostly work as security guards or factory workers.

Over the last 6 years, we have met many nice Nepalese friends, some of whom we have visited in Nepal after they returned to their country. Every year, we organise a Nepalese Christmas Party for them. We had a fabulous time and the Nepalese danced and sang their hearts out that night. Here are some pictures :)

Me, Umi and Julia

With our missionary friend, Heike

Nepalese food every year

The ministry leader, Kelvin

Christmas!

2009-12-29T19:20:00.007+08:00

I'm feeling sad because Christmas is over already. Its my favourite time of the year. This month has been really hectic in church and I'm doing my best to enjoy December while it lasts.

I went for a Japanese buffet dinner with my family on Christmas Eve... that was nice. Woke up at about 6 something on Christmas morning to go to church. Of course, it was a working day for all church staff. We had 2 services, then off we went to Fui Ping's house for a Christmas lunch party.

Hubby and I had a Christmas party at our condo poolside with his cell group at night, and we had fun singing carols and just having a feast.

I started opening presents around midnight... what a long but wonderful day! Here are some pics :)

At the poolside

The delicious fruit cake that Stephanie baked
The pretty presents Fui Ping made for us

The presents (comprising lots of chocolate and candy) under the Christmas tree in church

The fun crew who served on Christmas Day

Busy December

2009-12-15T21:08:00.007+08:00

It's been a busy month with the Christmas concert and video productions for the end of the year. Since I don't have much time to write, I will post some pictures I took recently.

Below: We keep ourselves occupied by taking photos when our subject needs to read up on his script during our video shoots.
Below: Spottie and Bully yesterday. I do miss them a lot and look forward to seeing them on my off days once a week. Here they are relaxing together :)

Bully is panting happily because dad just spent some time playing with him :)

Spottie enjoying mum's pretty garden :)

Taken minutes before the Christmas concert started. The picture below was taken in the Media Control Room... I have spent countless hours inside.
The crew for our Christmas Concert - 'God Came Near'. It was a simple yet fun production. One of the more stress-free productions we've done.

Have A Little Faith

2009-12-08T23:34:00.005+08:00

I've just finished reading Mitch Albom's latest book, 'Have A Little Faith.' The book tells the true story of two persons, a Jewish rabbi and an African American pastor who used to be drug dealer.

Being a Jew himself, Mitch had known the rabbi since he was a young boy. However, Mitch was never really interested in matters of faith. One day, the rabbi asks Mitch whether he would be willing to write his eulogy. Mitch honours that request. Thus began a beautiful 8 year friendship between the two of them.

Mitch also tells the story of Pastor Henry and how his scepticism of this pastor turns to admiration as he hears stories of what this pastor had done for his church members - fed and clothed the homeless and even opened up his own home to them.

I liked how Mitch ties everything together with wonderful gems of true life stories and excerpts of the rabbi's sermons. The theme that resonated throughout the book was that there are times when we can't see a miracle happening, but it is happening. Sometimes we cry out in desperation, and God hears. Although we can't see Him, He's there. And we have to put our faith in Him.

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1

Christmas is here again!

2009-12-02T18:06:00.005+08:00

I love Christmas! It's my first year celebrating Christmas in my new home so I've done some Christmas decorating and I'm enjoying every bit of it. As usual, most of my decorations are from Ikea :) I try not to overspend so I'm pretty choosy with what I buy. We don't live in a big place, just about 800+ sqft but I believe that a cosy home is what we make of it.

Elephant Conservation

2009-11-30T10:39:00.005+08:00

Last weekend was hubby's cell group retreat. I went along and 11 of us (and a baby) headed to Selesa Hillhomes at Bukit Tinggi. My favourite endeavour whilst on the retreat was visiting the Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre in Pahang.

We arrived at about 1:45 pm, just in time to see the elephants having a good shower followed by meal time. We brought along fresh sugarcane that we collected at Mr Ooi's (hubby's colleague) plantation in Bentong.

I was pleased to see the elephants in healthy condition, a few of them looked pretty well-fed. I saw 1 baby elephant that had been rehabilitated after being rescued from poachers. He was missing a tail. Another elephant had lost part of his front leg but was still able to walk around slowly, limping. Although I felt sorry for these elephants, I'm glad the conservationists did a wonderful job in rehabilitating them.

It is heartwrenching to know that our precious wildlife animals are going extinct because humans are irresponsibly taking away their habitat without relocating these animals. Elephants are being killed for their body parts and simply because humans feel threatened by them. Elephants have been forced to raid plantations because they are starving from habitat loss.

Currently, there are only 40,000 wild elephants in Asia and 1,200 in Peninsula Malaysia. These animals face extinction unless we take more serious measures to safeguard them.

More details can be found at www.wildlife.gov.my

In Complete Honesty...

2009-11-26T14:54:00.004+08:00

I have discovered many things about Christianity after being a Christian for 27 years and working in church for 5 years. Here's what I found... in complete honesty.

Christians are not above the rest. We're the same as everyone else. Not smarter, richer or more talented. Christians can be hypocrites too. Christians face temptations and fall into sin like everyone else. Christians hurt one another.

Sometimes we pretend that everything is nice and rosy but they are not. We go through difficulties, pains and all kinds of sufferings. We cry when people or circumstances break our hearts. People fail us and sometimes we want to run to a place where no one will judge us anymore.

So why am I still a Christian? The answer is Jesus. In the midst of all the problems I have faced, Jesus has been there for me. He sends people to encourage me, he changes circumstances miraculously for me. He has never failed me. He has loved me unconditionally. He picks me up when I fall. He has blessed me beyond measure.

The reason for anyone to become a Christian should not be on how beautiful the church building looks, or how eloquent the pastor speaks, or how good Christians treat us, or how important it makes us feel serving in the church..... because when one of them fails, everything crumbles. The reason for our faith should be Jesus. Only Jesus can forgive us of our sins.

Although Christians are to be perfect like Jesus, they cannot ever replace Jesus... no Christian is perfect. Christians are human too. But Jesus is God and He is perfect in every way.

Therefore, my brothers, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Acts 13:38

More Animal Photos!

2009-11-25T15:40:00.011+08:00

Found these beautiful pictures on the internet. Cute animal pictures always makes my heart smile :) Reminds me that God is incredibly creative and humourous. Hope you enjoy them too!

The harp seal pup. Unfortunately, thousands of them are killed by commercial fishing nets and hunters each year.

Human beings must learn to get along like these two.

Polar bears. We must work together in dealing with climate change, pollution, industrial activities and poaching to prevent these beautiful creatures from going extinct.

Smiling bull terriers. How sweet :) I think bull terriers are widely misunderstood. Many think they are vicious dogs, but having one at home now made me realise they can be really sweet if you love them lots.

Queen Ant

2009-11-20T15:42:00.006+08:00

I recently discovered a queen ant living in my anthurium plant! The smaller ants are feeding from it. I don't know how long they've been there... but it must've been since I bought the plant from Ikea months ago. The ants have not seemed migrate to any other part of the house so I have not done anything to them.... yet.

Update: I did some research and discovered that this plant requires insects to climb the spadix and bring the pollen from male flowers to receptive female flowers to pollinate the plant. The authurium spadix also provides a rich food source for the ants. Plants which attract ants are known as myrmecophytes.

Wow..what an interesting discovery from my own garden!

A Black Kitten

2009-11-17T18:15:00.007+08:00

The interesting things in life are the surprises that come our way. On the way to lunch last Sunday, Julia suddenly screamed while I was about to make a u-turn. She startled everyone in the car and it took us a few seconds to realise what was happening. Right in the middle of a busy road was a tiny black kitten... and cars were still zooming past! All of us screamed in unison. The kitten would be squashed in no time if we didn't do something. So I stopped, Oli and Julia quickly got out of the car and grabbed the kitten from the middle of the road.

We continued our journey to the restaurant, now with an extra passenger - a black kitten, meowing its heart out. We were all 'dog' people, and didn't know what to do with it. At first we thought it was injured, but after awhile we realised it had no bruises and could walk properly. We tried feeding it water and some meat at the coffee shop, but it didn't seem to know how to eat that way.

As it was a Sunday, all the vets were closed. The sun was already setting so I simply left the kitten at a safe place in church. I went home feeling a little guilty for just leaving the kitten there and prayed that it will survive the night. My friends assured me that cats have 9 lives anyway and strays should be pretty tough.

To my relief, the kitten was still around today, and it seemed to have already explored the area and found a nice cosy corner to sleep in. I bought pet milk and a bottle to feed it. With Tracey's expert advice and experience on cats, we finally got it to drink some milk.

I realised that God really does take care of animals, and we have to do our part too. We cannot turn a blind eye to a living being in need when we have everything it takes to help.

Oli has named it Dewie because its our first Dew Crew animal. Haha. Do contact me if you want to adopt it.

Animal Photographs

2009-11-12T16:22:00.005+08:00

Want some professional photos of your pet? Here are some animal photographs from Olivia Oon, a very good friend of mine and a professional photographer too. Oli has an extensive portfolio when it comes to photo shoots - weddings, product shoots, portraiture, corporate events and lots more!

No, Oli didn't ask to be featured here (she probably doesn't like me advertising her... haha) but I wanted her to put her animals photographs on my blog. Animals make great photo and video subjects, they are just so natural, unpretentious and beautiful :)

Frantic Work Schedule

2009-11-11T16:01:00.014+08:00

As expected, things have been pretty hectic at work once again... its the end of the year. Am spending 6 consecutive nights at DC this week - we're producing our very first music CD so this week's packed with rehearsals for it. At the same time we're having 3 nights of prayer that began yesterday. I've also got a video shoot for the anniversary video tonight and rehearsals for the weekend service tomorrow night. The CD recording will take place on Sunday afternoon right after Sunday service. Yes, exciting stuff... but pretty tiring too.

I won't be spending much time with hubby this week, and we won't be eating any meals together until Saturday I guess. When I get home around midnight, he will be off to sleep so we can't really have a good chat either. I will miss him this week.

Some recent pics from work:-

Jim mixing the audio for the CD. With him are Alvin and Julia, our faithful sound crew.

I'm amazed that the worship team managed to compose and arrange the songs in such a short span of time! Great job :)

The pictures below were taken during our video shoots in October and November 2009.

I really enjoy working with the media team... a fun lot :) This was taken at Juara Cerdik when we did a shoot with Cynthia, the principal of the school.

Really appreciate the volunteers at our shoots - Audrey, Choon Ean and Grace :)

Our latest toy, the Rode Blimp and dead wombat. I felt really sad when I read the words 'Dead Wombat' on the box. I thought this company were killing wombats for their fur. My fears were unfounded when during one of our shoots, Alvin mentioned that it was just synthetic fur. Just to double check, I searched through the internet and he was right. Synthetic fur. Silly me :)

Hope, the 2 legged Maltese

2009-11-10T15:45:00.010+08:00

I found yet another inspiring story on the internet of a Maltese called Hope. Hope was born without her two front legs and as a puppy, she moved around by hopping about (see video below).

As hopping about would eventually damage her spine and bones, an orthotist called David Turnbill created a device with makeshift shoulder joints using wheels from a model airplane for Hope.

It took some practising, and after awhile Hope had mastered the art of wheeling herself around!

Story taken from Daily Mail

Its so heartwarming to hear of people who would care enough to help a tiny puppy like Hope. Many people would have given up on her and possibly have her put down.

I'm reminded that in each person lies the potential to make a lasting change in another person or animal's life. We shouldn't give up so easily but always try to bring a glimmer of hope for one who needs it.

Proverbs 12:10
A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.

Nyac the Sea Otter

2009-11-06T16:43:00.017+08:00

Whilst surfing the internet for this weekend's sermon pictures I came across a really cute picture of 2 otters holding hands!

Then a video too...

The otter's name is Nyac. Unfortunately, she passed away on 28 September 2008. Here's her story taken from Vancouver Aquarium:-

"Nyac was originally rescued from the infamous 1989 Exxon Valdex oil spill off the coast of Alaska. She was six months old at the time, too young to fend for yourself. As a result, she was rehabilitated at Vancouver Aquarium and has spent the majority of her 20-year-old life under the care of the Aquarium staff. She has entertained and educated countless visitors...

Nyac is one of the longest surviving otters in captivity. Her health started to deteriorate in July and she finally succumbed to leukemia recently. "Her life has been an amazing journey for all of us to share," said Clint Wright, senior vice-president of aquarium operations and planning."

Animals never cease to amaze me. They bring smiles to people when no one can. They can melt hearts that have been frozen in time. Maybe God created them for this reason :)

This is it - Michael Jackson

2009-11-05T10:56:00.004+08:00

I watched 'This is it' with some friends last night and I was pretty blown away. Many thoughts went through my mind as I watched the footage of Michael Jackson's rehearsals and I left with a myriad of mixed feelings.

This is what I saw...

Michael Jackson was a star in every sense. He was amazingly talented (understatement). He composed his songs, performed them and choreographed the dance steps. He knew what he wanted and he never settled for anything less.

His team respected (or even worshipped) him and their attention was constantly on him. Michael didn't have to shout or repeat himself too many times. Once was usually enough.

I kept thinking about how nobody expected Michael to pass away so suddenly. They had enormous plans.....suddenly halted by the death of the superstar. It must have been devastating for everyone.

I wondered what Michael would do differently if he knew he was leaving so early. And what would he say now... if he had the chance?

Nobody knows when our time will be up - only God knows. The best thing to do is always be ready.

Cell Group Retreat

2009-11-03T18:28:00.005+08:00

My cell group finally managed to go for a retreat again after 3 years. It was a short 3 day 2 night trip to Cameron Highlands and we stayed at Equatorial. We were pretty pleased with the place, quite spacious, clean and very quiet considering it was the weekend.

There are lots of strawberry farms in Cameron Highlands and we went to the one nearest our hotel. Its a great time to do strawberry picking as its not school holidays and there are lots of strawberries left on the plants... but we didn't pick any because we took the free tour. Haha.

Cameron Highlands is an ideal place to have a steamboat meal. We went to the one next to our hotel again.. and it was yummy :)

We also dropped by the Butterfly Farm and we ended up more interested in their collection of insects. Below is the leaf insect which really fascinated me. It really looks like a leaf!!!

Having our lunch at Brinchang. Lots of Chinese restaurants around and we picked randomly. The food was pretty good.

A unique plant at the Butterfly farm... such nicely rolled petals!

Lots of pretty plants and butterflies... good opportunity for photographs :)

At the Boh tea plantation past Tanah Rata. I wanted to go to another one but it wasn't on the map. Found out later its called Sungai Palas Tea Plantation.

My Little Garden

2009-10-28T18:07:00.005+08:00

The first thing I do when I wake up every morning is have a peep at my plants! I love to see flower buds blooming :) I have also bought a few gardening tools - pruning scissors, a spade and a bottle of fertiliser!

Then I will switch on the lights at the aquarium and the guppies will greet me excitedly... anticipating their breakfast. Thoo and I discovered that the guppies seem to gather near our faces when we stare at them. Its quite amusing. I never knew fishes did that.

Here are some pictures.

Hitam the heroic dog

2009-10-25T22:33:00.009+08:00

It greatly saddened me today to read that Hitam, the heroic dog that had saved so many other dogs from Pulau Selat Kering (the abandoned island) had died. He was found to have pneumonia and many undigested chicken bones in his stomach.

Hitam made headlines when rescuers discovered that he had swam from the fisherman village to the abandoned island to regurgitate food for the starving dogs. And he did this countless times. Although he didn't have much to eat (the fishermen were said to have fed him rotten fish and chicken bones) he still did this. What a great big heart he had. So he frequently went on rescue expeditions to the abandoned island with Sabrina and her team.

When Sabrina (of Furry Friends Farm) informed the fishermen that Hitam and Kuning (his heroic partner) needed medical check-ups, the fishermen weren't even thankful but shockingly, threatened her and insisted that she return the dogs in 24 hours.

When she returned him to the fisherman village after the medical check-up, Hitam was in perfect health. However, not long after, she received an sms saying that Hitam had died. Such was the outrage of the animal rescuers that they requested for an autopsy. Even though Hitam had been faithfully working as a guard dog at the fisherman village, they returned Hitam's faithfulness with rotten food that eventually killed him.

It deeply saddens me to hear of how dogs are treated in Malaysia. They are hardly ever considered man's best friend but treated like scum instead. Last year, the press even exposed how stray dogs were lined up and brutally killed by the Kuala Lumpur City Hall. And the fine for animal cruelty in Malaysia is a mere RM200 (Approx. USD 57).

I hope more Malaysians will have a heart for animals. People are not the only ones with feelings.

Update: Hitam's Obituary in the Malay Mail on the 25th November 2009. Click here.

Home Sweet Home

2009-10-21T17:40:00.005+08:00

I just love pretty things! I've been doing some deco around my apartment... here are some pictures :)

Here's a painted glass deco I bought from the 'Burning Bush' bookshop in church last week. I love how the colours are so vibrant when light passes through it.

Father's garden is the name of my cell group and our theme verse is from Isaiah 58:11. I just love the doggie tail hooks from Ikea so when the blue and pink colours came out I quickly snapped them up. I also love Precious Moments figurines and the one below was a gift from my friends during my bridal shower.

I enjoy glass painting and below is an example of something I painted a long time ago. I've been so busy lately and haven't painted for some time. Should do one soon before my paint dries up. My mum gave me that duck and I really like the bow on it's neck.

Wall Decal

2009-10-21T00:23:00.007+08:00

After much anticipation, my custom made wall decal finally arrived from the US! I found out about wall decal in the internet a few weeks ago, and really wanted one in my house. After searching through the internet, I came across Single Stone Studios and after giving them my choice of text, they promptly designed the wall decal for me. I really love how it looks in my house, I might add more later :)

The birds are a separate set and I realised both text and birds matched so I put them together. I chose part of the scripture from the bible 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart' to remind hubby and myself that God can always be trusted. Here are some pictures.

Staying Fit & Healthy

2009-10-13T18:02:00.006+08:00

I've been trying to put more effort into staying fit and healthy. So HH and I are keeping Sunday evenings free for Kiara Park. There are 2 options at Kiara Park - (1) The challenging uphill and downhill mountain walk (2) The relaxing flatland walk where can see fishes and tortoises as you walk. Monkeys can be seen on both options. Not surprisingly, I like option 2.

Last week, we had a staff outing at Option 1, and after the gruelling jungle trek we headed to Shogun Japanese Buffet for a sumptious lunch. That was followed by bowling. The next day my whole body was aching. I really need more exercise.

Anyway, here are some pictures :)

Tsunami

2009-10-03T12:27:00.015+08:00

2 natural disasters happened on 30 September 2009. A tsunami in Samoa that left nearly 200 people dead, and an earthquake measuring 7.9 at Padang, Indonesia that left over 100 people dead. Very tragic indeed.

The tremors were even felt in Malaysia and Singapore. I felt quite nervous on that day, and was reminded of the tsunami that happened in 2004 where 270,000 people died.

Tsunamis have always fascinated me. When I was about 10 years old, I read a National Geographic book about Tsunamis. At that time, no tsunami had occured in my lifetime (yet). All I saw were drawings of how a tsunami would look like and how it would strike. The rest was left to my imagination. It was all an amazing legend to me.... until.... it happened in 2004.

I couldn't believe it. I was awestruck, completely stunned, shocked beyond words. I sat staring at the tv in disbelief watching the same footage over and over again, for days in a row. A tsunami had happened in my lifetime, and it took a quarter of a million lives.

Even now, I still watch tsunami videos on youtube, because to me, its the 'king' of all natural disasters. Its a natural disaster of indescribable proportions.

I also found out that many animals (who were free to run) had escaped the tsunami alive, because their natural instincts had led them to higher ground before disaster struck.

It is extremely sad to hear of people who lost their family members in the tsunamis. As I watched tv, I could feel the complete brokenness of a mother who told of how she lost 4 children in the Samoan tsunami. My heart and prayers go out to all the victims. May they find hope and peace in our God.

Worshipping Together

2009-09-29T15:50:00.005+08:00

Hubby bought a clavinova for my birthday and its been keeping me occupied and happy the past 2 weeks! I love being able to practise more often now and I'm trying to improve in my playing techniques.

HH and I have begun worshipping together quite frequently with him on the guitar and me on the piano. I really enjoy it. We're both still quite amateurish in our playing, but I believe we'll improve in time :)

At times when I feel down emotionally, I will plonk myself at the piano and just play a few songs. I don't sing most of the time (I always stop when it comes to the high notes because my voice can't reach it), I'll just sing 'in my heart' and I'll feel God's peace enveloping me. Worshipping God reminds me that God is always greater than any circumstance I may be facing and that He will take care of things for me.

Worshipping God brings me closer to Him.

Worship the LORD your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you, and none will miscarry or be barren in your land. I will give you a full life span. Exodus 23:24-26

Stuff I love

2009-09-19T12:57:00.007+08:00

I've been surfing the internet for nice home deco ideas and I came across some really lovely pictures. Just thought I'd share some of them :)

What a great collection of dog pictures! :)

Totally not possible to have this at my house but isn't it fantastic! I could spend all day in a place like this...

I love this colour scheme. White + beige + red/fuchsia/pink hues.

The Misadventures of Me

2009-09-16T14:48:00.005+08:00

I've been having a series of misadventures at home since I got married. This morning I put 2 slices of bread in the toaster, then I went off to water the plants. I spent some time looking at the plants and when I got back to my toaster the bread was burnt. I had to make another 2 slices.

2 weeks ago I decided to vacuum the house. The vacuum cleaner was making strange noises but I decided to continue vacuuming. Suddenly, smoke started coming out of it and the noises sounded like little eruptions. I panicked and switched it off.. but fumes were still coming out of it. The house stank of vacuum fumes after that and I had to air the whole house and spray air freshener all over the place.

I think I'll wait a little while more before taking the blender out of the box....

My Garden

2009-09-08T16:30:00.011+08:00

I've been rather interested in plants since I moved into my new house because I think plants make a home really nice and cosy. I've also been largely influenced by my mum and my friend Stephanie because they both go to nurseries a lot and put much effort into their gardens. As a result, they have really beautiful and healthy plants.

Since I can't keep pets in the apartment (besides the guppy fishes), I've channeled some attention to my plants.

Here are some pictures I took this morning :)

Stephanie gave me this from her own garden :) I'm glad its still alive!!

This was one of the first plants my mum gave HH and I, I love how it looks when the sun shines on it. The colours are so vibrant!

I bought this last week for RM5 and it seems to be quite easy to care for :)

Bought this a few days ago, a new flower seems to bloom every 2 days.
I'm quite fascinated with this plant... recommended by Steph. When the man at the nursery told us a new flower blooms everyday, I thought he was joking. But he's quite correct, I can practically see the flower bloom in the mornings.

Rediscovering me

2009-08-27T17:33:00.004+08:00

Marriage has changed my lifestyle a little. Hubby's alarm rings at 7am from Monday to Saturday, and my alarm rings at 7:20am on Sundays. When he travels, the alarm rings at 4:30am! I never used to hear the alarm clock ring except on Sundays! So no more waking up at 9am on weekdays. Its not a bad thing though... Now I get to spend some time reading the Bible and praying before I rush off to work (as opposed to praying in the car during my singlehood). Plus, I have time to feed the fish, water the plants and make myself a simple breakfast. Marriage is good for my self-disclipline.

I have discovered that I enjoy housework - ironing, cleaning, cooking, shopping for household things. Maybe its because I got married in my 30s and have been too comfortable the past many years. There are so many things I want to learn! I have a new interest in looking for recipes online and I seem to be spending a lot more time in supermarkets. Not only that, I have started to have an eye for all sorts of cooking utensils. I have transformed into a housewife overnight!

3 Weeks Later...

2009-08-17T12:43:00.006+08:00

I haven't written for a long time! Need to backtrack a little now. I got married (finally) on 2 August. On my wedding day, I felt like I was in a dream or floating in the sky because of all the fuss going on around me. I've never had so much make-up in my life... or worn such a long and heavy dress... had fresh flowers in my hair.... and walked down the aisle with a veil covering my face and lots of people cheering! It really felt like I had gone to heaven....

Emotionally, it was a lot to handle. I felt really touched when I was walking down the aisle holding my dad's arm, but I fought back the tears because I knew many cameras were snapping away and I don't like pictures of myself crying. I kept telling myself to smile and not be so 'emo' :)

I felt really happy to have Hoi Hian wait for me at the end of the aisle, we've gotten so comfortable with each other that I know he's the one I want to spend my life with. We have so much do accomplish together and I know this is the beginning of an exciting journey.

I'm really grateful to God for blessing us with our families and friends... each of them have added to the spectrum of beautiful colours in our lives.

Registration of Marriage

2009-07-28T01:02:00.005+08:00

HH and I got registered last Friday, 9 days before our wedding ceremony and dinner. So during this duration, I am half married. The pastor put it this way - married in the eyes of the law, but not yet in the eyes of God.

Its now less than a week to our wedding. We've done pretty much most of the preparations except the bulletin for the ceremony and our final table seatings. But its 90% done. We're quite relaxed and watched a movie tonight - Land of the Lost.... funny, quite wierd and silly. I had hoped to watch The Proposal but its not out yet :(

Both of us are on leave for 3 weeks!! I'm really looking forward to having a good break and honeymoon in Hong Kong :)

Bridal Shower!

2009-07-19T23:44:00.006+08:00

Julia organised a really fun bridal shower for me last Friday! We started with food (of course!) followed by a simple game plus Q&A session. After that the girls took turns to bless and pray for me. Then they gave me gifts.....Yes, very sweet and girly... haha, the way bridal showers should be :)

Part 2 started when Karen took out a dvd she bought recently called 'David Foster and friends' and the rest of the night was spent admiring Michael Buble, David Foster and his friends...and making girly comments (I shall not mention them here!)

It was definitely a fun-filled night! Here are some pictures from it :)

Me holding one of the gifts from the girls :) I love it!

Steph baked some really delicious chocolate cupcakes. This picture was taken before she put the chocolate topping on them. Yummy!

The fruit punch and fruits also prepared by Stephanie :)

Stephanie even ordered pizzas for us! This is the group favourite - Sambal pizza by Dominos Pizza.

Posing with the gift they gave me :)

My wonderful friends who came... so touched by them! Thanks everyone for all your blessings and gifts, love you all :)

3 weeks to the wedding!

2009-07-16T00:21:00.006+08:00

It's less than 3 weeks to the wedding and my friends and colleagues have been asking me how I feel. I'm excited... nervous... hopeful... prayerful... happy... and have lots of things to do! RSVPs... table seatings... marriage registration... final fittings... video montage... and the list goes on! Thank God, everything is still under control.

I spent last night looking through hundreds of photos of myself and Thoo from birth till now and have finally managed to start on my 'Growing Up' montage. *phew*

As I browsed the pictures, I saw how much love our parents have poured into our lives, taking so many photos of us, celebrating our birthdays, giving us presents and taking us on holidays. I was reminded of my carefree childhood and both my grandfathers who have passed away.

I'm glad I took the time to look back and reflect because it made me truly cherish the people and animals that God has put in my life, and to appreciate my parents even more. I realised that I have to be courageous in taking big steps to move on from chapter to chapter in life - because its through the big steps that I have experienced truly colourful moments.

I am looking forward to married life and starting a new chapter in this amazing journey on earth and I know God has great things in store for me in the coming days.

When Love is Enough...

2009-07-06T01:14:00.006+08:00

I spent nearly 12 hours in church today for celebrations and rehearsals for our coming production. Was feeling pretty tired as I drove to Thoo’s house to go for dinner together. I thought we’d just have a simple dinner near his house.

When I picked him up, he said “Since you’ve been working all day, I thought it’d be a good idea to go to Isetan for the much talked about sale!” It was 8pm, and it was something I totally did not expect from him. Moreover, he didn't complain although he had to wait for me for so long. Going to KLCC would take at least 20 minutes and Thoo doesn’t enjoy shopping! I was delighted, because I really wanted to go for the sale after hearing Julia and Stephanie talk about the good bargains.

Thoo accompanied me as I did some speed shopping and I managed to grab 1 pair of shoes and 2 t-shirts! We wanted to eat at Jalan Alor but the traffic was really heavy so we ended up eating near his house on the way back.

I also wanted to have a look at the lights he installed at his home (my home soon!) over the weekend. So I dropped by at his house before going home and I was pleasantly surprised to see that he had not only fixed the lights, but cleaned the house, watered and arranged the plants, cleared the study, put up the curtains and laid out my favourite rug!

I was and still am really touched by Thoo’s sweet gestures and really thankful that God gave me someone like him. I’m writing it here so that I will remember moments like this and cherish it always.

Michael Jackson dies

2009-06-26T17:22:00.007+08:00

The 'King of Pop' Michael Jackson died early today. The radio has been playing his songs all day, the internet is swamped with tributes to him, photo galleries, videos and everything that has to do with him.

Listening to his songs all day, I have to say he was an incredibly talented person who made music and danced a class above the rest. I absolutely love his song 'Man in the Mirror'.

Its so ironic that the same platform - the media - made him famous, subsequently destroyed his reputation, had no qualms about putting horrible pictures and news about him on tv, newspapers and the internet, and now, on the event of his death, is paying tribute to him.

That's media. A powerful medium that continues to battle between good and evil.

To me, Michael Jackson would be remembered as a precious child who grew up too fast, who discovered his God-given gifts and used it to the best of his ability, but got trapped in the enticements of overwhelming wealth, power and fame that robbed him of true happiness in life...

Pre-Wedding Photo Shoot

2009-06-24T17:35:00.013+08:00

Thoo and I had our pre-wedding photo shoot at Cameron Highlands last weekend. Altogether, there were 5 of us - Olivia and Stanley our photographers, our good friend Stephanie, Thoo and myself.

We stayed at the Strawberry Park Resort. There were many pretty photo-taking locations around the resort but the rooms were a bit dated and could do with some new curtains, bedding and furniture. Nevertheless, it was quite comfortable.

Here are some pictures from our trip! Olivia and Stanley's photos will only be out on the wedding day :)

We saw this nice-looking stray dog at a Chinese restaurant and fed him pork ribs

Strawberry Park Resort - The gardener did a great job with the landscaping
Sunflowers at the Rose Park
Olivia at one of our locations - the Boh Tea Plantation

Having a cup of tea before our shoot

We stopped by Kellie's Castle in Ipoh on the way up to Cameron Highlands

The crew - Olivia, Stanley and Stephanie

Thoo and Stanley at the mamak

Having steamboat at night, the prawns were especially fresh!

Exhausted = Sick

2009-06-14T23:06:00.007+08:00

I seriously need to add more margins in my life. This week has been really exhausting. I was reminded last week that we are never 100% in control of our lives, no matter how much or far ahead we plan. There are many things mortal humans like us cannot foresee - death, impending sicknesses, accidents, natural disasters, pandemics.

I got the flu this week, I must have gotten it from mum, who got it from dad. It started with a sore throat and fever, then a cold and now, a cough. I'm much better now and don't have to worry about being quarantined for suspected H1N1.

And as my schedule is packed so tight with (mostly) work, I couldn't really take any rest... and still spent the week running around like a headless chicken. So I got all frustrated... I don't think that's the way God wants me living my life... hectic and frantic.

I'm so thankful right now to have the opportunity to blog before going to bed. Plus, I don't have to work tomorrow! Its time to rethink my priorities in life. I like how Pr Chris Hodges illustrated it - to put in the big rocks in the jar before filling the sand in. The big rocks symbolise what's really important (God, family, ourselves) and the sand is whatever else that comes in the way (endless emails, smses, facebook, etc.). I not only need to know this principle, but practice it too.

Sleepy sleepy... Goodnight!

Family

2009-06-08T23:55:00.004+08:00

My dad's eldest brother, I call him 'Ah Pek' in Hokkien, passed away yesterday. He was 69 and had stomach cancer that had spread to other parts of his body. He lived another 16 months after being diagnosed with 4th stage cancer last year. 'Ah Pek' was a really hardworking man, who insisted that he wanted to continue working after the diagnosis. He would take a bus to work right after his radiotherapy treatments! He'd hardly ever complain about being in pain and endure the sickness quietly. These are the words I would use to describe him - responsible, hardworking, sacrificial, caring.

While attending the wake the past two nights, I pondered on many things. I saw how Ah Pek's children - my cousins - gathered and prayed together in the midst of their grief, giving support and love to each other. I saw how the family members were all trying to be strong for one another so that the other person would feel better. I saw my cousins greeting relatives and friends with a brave smile and appreciative words in the midst of their great pain. And Ah Pek's wife even walked over to our car, when we were about to leave, to thank us for some food we bought. The food is nothing compared to the loss she's facing. And yet, she thanked us.

And in pondering all those things, I realised that it is the grieving who need us the most and we must always choose to be with them.... Love is what is what makes family, family.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4

Our Daily Gift

2009-06-03T23:55:00.006+08:00

I wake up each morning with a gift from God - the privilege of asking anything I want from Him in prayer.

I've been praying for Nepal over the past couple of days since finding out that a political leader has threatened to bomb all Christian homes in Nepal and is demanding that all Nepali Christians leave the country within 1 month. A lady has been detained for bombing a church in Lalitpur that killed a few people and injured many others.

I feel sad hearing this news, and I can't help but think of how the Nepali Christians are feeling right now. The only thing I can do right now is pray for them and that is the best thing to do at this moment.

I pray that God will bring peace and harmony to Nepal and that every Nepali will know that God is loving and gracious, and would never do evil to anyone. I pray for His angels to guard all His children and for His blood to cover them. If God is for them, who can be against them? I pray that Nepali Christians will be strong and courageous at this time, not paralysed by fear but to be able to follow His command to overcome evil with good.

"Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. Psalm 91:14

Missing Nepal

2009-05-30T11:49:00.006+08:00

As I was taking Spottie on a short walk this morning, enjoying the perfect weather, tranquility and greenery around me, I was suddenly reminded of Nepal. And at that very minute, that thought triggered something in my heart, and I started missing Nepal...a lot. The more I reflected on my trips to Nepal, the more I missed it. I've been to many other countries, but I don't miss any of them like I miss Nepal.

I began to process what I was feeling in my mind, and I wondered whether it was remotely possible that for some reason, I had some kind of calling there at a certain point in my life... possibly in the future. When I think about Nepal, I feel joy, awe, excitement and a mix of nice feelings!

Is it just that I had 'out-of-this-world' experiences in my 3 mission trips to Nepal over the past 5 years... or is it that God has planted something special in my heart for that country? Is this why I often feel restless and frustrated at the work I'm currently doing, feeling that I should be doing more?

My hope is that at the end of my life, I would be able to say that I have done what God intended me to do in my lifetime. And I hope and pray that I will be obedient and courageous to do what God asks, because nothing else matters except walking in the perfect will of God.

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2

Sentimental me

2009-05-29T00:34:00.004+08:00

I don't say it very often but I'm quite a sentimental person. I'm always touched when people do little favours for me and I appreciate it greatly. I'm deeply thankful when the 3 different Dew Crew leaders (Julia, Fui Ping and Melvin/Emily) buy me my favourite nasi lemak and 'yau char kuai' every Sunday morning when their team is on duty in church. I eat my breakfast with a deep appreciation of my friends who bought it for me.

Today Fui Ping called me at about 6 pm and asked whether I wanted to share an O'Briens sandwich with her. I was greedy and said I didn't want to share one, I wanted a whole sandwich to myself. I had fallen in love with the sandwich when she shared one with me a few weeks ago.

I regretted not sharing, because I think I really stuffed myself and couldn't eat the delicious wasabi potato chips that she also bought. But I ate a few anyway :) Here's the picture of the delicious sandwich - it contains walnuts, raspberry spread, lettuce, crispy chicken and cheese....yummy!

Snapshots

2009-05-26T23:13:00.006+08:00

I take my Lumix camera everywhere I go so that I can just snap whenever something catches my eye. Here are some shots I took recently.

Above: I was more amused than shocked to see this at Ken III Condominium last Friday. Isn't execution a bit too much? I think they meant 'prosecuted'. Malaysians should pay more attention at English class.

Above: How adorable! My friends and I saw this car next to us while waiting at the traffic light at Section 14. There were 3 shih tzus in the car, one was sitting in front :) They all seemed to be really enjoying the ride. I love seeing happy dogs.

Above: I took this while exiting to the highway. A bit dangerous I know, but I could not help taking a snap of the massive golden cloud looming above me at dusk. Reminds me that God is an incredible artist.

The Sabbath

2009-05-24T22:43:00.010+08:00

I'm currently reading a book about a priest who leaves church for a secular job. She writes:-

"If my first lost upon leaving church was my regular Sunday job, then my first gain was the Sabbath."

- Barbara Brown Taylor

She talks about how inconceivable it was for her to not 'work' on her off day. She had to pay the bills, do the laundry and a whole list of other things. I can relate to that. Yet long ago, Jews with many children and aged parents managed to observe the Sabbath and kept it holy.

I think that nobody really takes the Sabbath seriously nowadays. That includes me. Pastors preach about it, we read about it in the bible, we discuss about it and we pray about it. But we don't practise it.

On our 'Sabbath' day, we have a whole list of 'things-to-do' like repairing the sink, grocery shopping, washing the car and countless other activities. Churches have extra events and meetings on a Sunday and public holidays. Volunteers come in to serve in church for hours on their Sabbath day.

If God rested on the Sabbath, what makes us think that we don't need rest? I think that the lack of Sabbath observance in our lives today has resulted in many defeated Christian lives. The truth is I don't know how to observe the Sabbath in my hectic daily routine, but I know I have to do it!

I feel that if Christian leaders take the Sabbath seriously, they must not only practise it, but allow and teach their sheep to practise it too. After all, Christianity is not all about working for God, its about a relationship with a loving Father and getting to know Him through His Word and His awesome creation.

Remember the Sabbath day, and keep it holy. Six days you shall labour and do all your work. But the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God; you shall not do any work - you, your son or your daughter, your male or female slave, your livestock, or the alien resident in your towns. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but rested the seventh day; therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and consecrated it. Exodus 20:8-11

Make-up Artists

2009-05-21T17:12:00.007+08:00

I've been busy searching the internet for make-up artists for my wedding day. There are just a handful of them with portfolios online in Malaysia. I've received quite a few recommendations from my friends, but I find it too risky to commit to any make-up artist without seeing their portfolios first. I'm not a risk-taker and seeing one beautiful bride is not enough!

Thankfully, there are bridal forums and after reading countless pages of threads online, I have found a few highly recommended make-up artists in KL. Their prices range from RM500 - RM1000, largely depending on their portfolios. A good make-up artist must also be good at doing hairstyle!

I think the bride's make-up and hairstyle is very important for the wedding day because all eyes will be on her and hundreds of photos will be taken and probably posted everywhere, like facebook. Haha. So avoid a disaster here. Besides having make-up and hair skills, its important that the make-up artist arrives on time and doesn't get lost on the way to the bride's house. Haven't heard of that happening before though!

Another thing I look for in a make-up artist is their friendliness :) I called up a make-up artist yesterday and although her portfolio was really good, I was put off by her abruptness over the phone. I didn't get the impression that she was friendly, so I decided on another make-up artist after that.

Looking forward to my make-up trial next week :)

2.5 months to go!

2009-05-16T13:39:00.006+08:00

I think the last 3 months to a wedding is most stressful! I've been saying 'Its still a long way to go' when people asked about our wedding plans, but now... it is fast approaching.

Suddenly, I have a whole list of things to do by the end of next month. Get the cards printed, organise our pre-wedding photo shoot and do the childhood video (doing it myself). I really like Oli's storyboard for our wedding shoot! Our attire is all done (except for final fittings) so that's a relief :)

Am really grateful for our co-ordinators, helpers, parents and friends who have advised and helped us along the way the past few months. And God of course! What can we do without Him? Thoo's apartment is in pretty good condition so I'll just move my things in little by little. He's got 3 plants that are half-dead and I hope to improve their condition when I move in, with the help of my good friend and plant consultant, Stephanie.

Our honeymoon will be in Hong Kong, and we had already decided on the hotel to stay at, but we might have to change our plans because a hotel with the same name (maybe different branch, not sure) recently had a guest with the H1N1 virus.

We can't be in control over everything in a wedding, so I have to just let God take care of things that I cannot! God has taken us this far, I'm sure He's got wonderful things planned ahead for us :)

For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. Psalm 100:5

Money back week

2009-05-09T10:35:00.004+08:00

I received a letter from the income tax department 2 days ago. They said they have received my request and will send me a cheque for what they owe me (over a thousand ringgit) in two weeks! I'm now quite impressed with the Lembaga Hasil Dalam Negeri for their efficiency. Thank God :)

My dad also dug out a letter I had been waiting for for over a year (he had kept it conveniently!) from my bank in UK. I had asked for a telegraphic transfer of my money in my UK account that had become dormant over the years to my account in Malaysia. It was quite a tedious task of calling UK, sending them my details and original documents so I was quite frustrated when I didn't receive a reply. Little did I know my dad had kept the letter. Since its been over a year, I will have to go to my bank and request for last year's statements to check whether the money has been transferred.

I really thank God for His showers of blessings this week. Although there have been ups and downs as usual, I must remember to be thankful instead of complaining.

Cruelty to dogs in Malaysia

2009-05-04T23:34:00.006+08:00

I read about the exile of stray dogs to a deserted island today. I can't believe there are people who can be so cruel... leaving innocent dogs to die like that. This is one aspect of Malaysia that breaks my heart. I really hope our authorities will not take this lightly anymore. Dogs are God's creation too, and they deserve to be treated with respect, dignity and mercy. When will Malaysia change? If you want to help, click here.

Cell Wedding

2009-05-04T00:08:00.008+08:00

I attended the wedding of a cell member on Saturday. Most of us were roped in to help out - Brenda, Kevin, Lizzie, Thoo and I were part of reception. Andrew was the guitarist, Perrine the MC and Alvin the sound guy! We had a lot of fun doing what we did, and the weather was beautiful too. We were worried that we'd all be sunburnt as it was a garden wedding and it had been about 33 deg. Celcius the past week - heatwave!

A wedding like this is what makes cell group really fun. Its not just about meeting on Fridays to do worship and read the bible together, its having a sense of belonging and trust, knowing that there's a group of people you can always count on.... inspite of our differences and weaknesses.

Brenda, Lizzie & myself having a drink before our reception duty. It was really hot!

Our cell group occupied 1 table... we squeezed in an extra person at our table. Everyone having less to eat is better than having 1 cell member sitting somewhere else!

Everyone grabbed the dessert real quick. To our embarrassment, one of my cell members 'ta pau-ed' (doggie bagged) some from other tables.. in a transparent plastic bag!

The whole cell group. Chelsea looked radiant and Alistair... charming!

I now pronounce you husband and wife....*music plays*

City Life

2009-05-02T12:42:00.008+08:00

I have been thinking about the problems of city-life recently. Its not just the sicknesses that we are all aware of - swine flu, cancer and all that. Its the stresses that we go through, rushing from one thing to another and hardly spending enough time with our families and people we cherish in life.

Its constantly being hounded by workloads in office, and even after trying our best we still have a sense of failure when we cannot finish all that we have to do or when the boss doesn't seem to appreciate all our efforts. And whilst we are giving our heart and soul to our work, the people we love and who loves us... our parents... our spouses... our children.... are waiting for us to go home.

Its tragic that we don't realise what's happening because we think that that's the way to go, to work hard and earn a living so that we can have a 'better life' - a bigger house, a nicer car, a new handphone like everybody else, a new notebook and all kinds of material things. We rush about life frantically and don't see the things God has put around us - the beauty of His creation, the blind person crossing the road, the ones who are alone and hurting, the old ones who have no one to love them and the sick who have lost hope.... the people who love us... God.

I want to slow down, I really do, but its like I'm caught inside a machine that cannot stop. I think its like being on a conveyor belt destined for somewhere, and if I want a change, I need to hop off this conveyor belt and hop onto another one.

More Wedding Blessings!

2009-04-29T23:23:00.005+08:00

I originally did not want to have any videographers at my wedding because I imagined myself feeling too self-conscious with a video camera around and I didn't feel that it was necessary.

Today, a friend in the media business offered to do my entire wedding video shoot and edit for free! She would then be featuring our video as part of her wedding portfolio. After discussing with Thoo, we agreed to it. What a wonderful blessing :)

God has been just blessing us non-stop since we started preparing for our wedding. It's not that we're very good or anything, its just that God is awesome and he has blessed us beyond our wildest dreams. We can never repay Him back for all that He has given to us.

We never wanted our wedding to be very grand in the first place... just something simple where everyone will enjoy themselves. I've just been praying that God will lead us as we prepare, and look at what He's done!

Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. Fear the Lord, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing. Psalm 34:8-9

What a mistake!

2009-04-28T17:15:00.005+08:00

I learnt a costly lesson today. Feel very frustrated and upset at myself for my carelessness. I did my e-filing for taxes last week, and even did an online transfer of payment to the IRD immediately. All that took less than 15 minutes and I was quite proud of myself.

A few days later, while talking to Thoo, I realised that I had forgotten to key in my PCB (tax already deducted by company) amount!!! That means I have overpaid my taxes by close to a thousand ringgit! I feel so dumb. How can I be so blur?

So I frantically called the tax department today, and one officer told me to go to the tax office near my house (I hate going there because I always get lost). I wasn't entirely happy with what he said so I called another branch, and the officer there just took down my handphone number and said they'll write me a cheque for the refund. I'm quite sceptical that they would send me a cheque in the next 1 year! I am going to pray that they will as soon as possible.

Anyway, I've learnt that online banking can cause me to be over-efficient or over-enthusiastic about transferring my money elsewhere. I have to be careful from now onwards.

Pictures!

2009-04-27T12:26:00.009+08:00

Here are some photos I took lately!

Spottie looking out for his neighbourhood friends. He doesn't like taking photos so he'll turn away whenever I direct a camera at him.

My friends from Nepalese Fellowship. Here's where I spend most of my Saturday nights.

The baby guppies at Thoo's aquarium. There are about 40 of them!

Thoo and me at Soho KL after dinner at Ten Ji Japanese Buffet.

Bully made my mum and I laugh the other day by sleeping like this!

He's good at posing :)

Bully wants to play all the time. Everytime I get home he fetches his toy and waits for me at the garden... even though its midnight.

Where do I begin...

2009-04-24T17:42:00.006+08:00

I sent out my first batch of Save the Date cards to my colleagues last week. Since we have so many last minute events where I work, I'm afraid that my colleagues will plan an event on my wedding day!

Also tried my made-to-order wedding gown a few days ago. Besides some minor changes, I loved it! Its not too elaborate or revealing and I think it suits my personality well. Thoo has also collected his suit :)

We've still got to look into our guest list, we both try to avoid it after a long day's work because its the stressful part of wedding planning. But we have to look at it sooner or later. Showed my parents a draft copy of my wedding card, and my dad didn't like the logo I designed. They also made some comments about the wordings. I've removed the logo and changed the text, so hopefully they will be happy with the amended card. My dad has got design sense since he's an architect so I better listen to him!

Last night Thoo and I did our PMC assignment which was to go for a romantic dinner together! We went to a Japanese buffet and ended up eating a lot and not talking that much. Haha... we had a great time nevertheless. I don't think it has really sunk in that I'm getting married in about 3 months! Exciting times ahead.

7 Important Things to Know

2009-04-23T00:18:00.005+08:00

I just finished reading the book 'God has never failed me, but he's sure scared me to death a few times' by Stan Toler. It was a very interesting read, and a very encouraging one too! I loved many of the real-life stories he told and the humorous way in which he brings the message across.

Quoting from his book: A Short Course in Human Relations

The six most important words: "I admit I made a mistake."

The five most important words: "You did a good job."

The four most important words: "What is your opinion?"

The three most important words: "If you please."

The two most important words: "Thank you."

The one most important word: "We."

The least important word: "I."

- Source Unknown

Helen Keller

2009-04-15T22:50:00.006+08:00

Here's an amazing video of a woman by the name of Helen Keller who became deaf and blind at the age of 19 months after a childhood sickness. She conquered her circumstances and earned herself a Bachelor of Arts and wrote numerous books, including her own biography. During her lifetime, she inspired many others and even met a few US Presidents. What an amazing woman who was not defeated by circumstances but rose above it all. The human spirit is indeed amazing. I'm reminded to always have a positive outlook on things and never to wallow in self-pity but rise above difficult situations. Most importantly, God is always there to lift us up when we are down.

My Roommate

2009-04-11T00:54:00.009+08:00

Its nearly 1 am and I am watching my dog sleep by my bed. I have a really big king sized duvet so I share it with him. His whiskers are twitching and his legs are moving a little - he's dreaming again :) I love watching him sleep so soundly and comfortably! He'll sleep throughout the night, waking up once in a while but he'll go back to sleep and only wake up at about 7 am when my mum goes out for her morning walk.

When he wakes up in the morning, the first thing he'll do is shake and I'll hear the sound of his tag against his chain and I'll wake up too! Sometimes he wants to get out but the door is not opened big enough for him to squeeze through and he'll stare at me until I wake up. Most of the time I will (don't ask me how he does it, but he can stare me awake), but if I don't, he'll start to whine. He's really one smart dog!

Well, that's Spottie...my lovable roommate :)

Law vs. Grace

2009-04-10T00:10:00.007+08:00

I tell you that one greater than the temple is here. If you had known what these words mean, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the innocent. For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.

Matthew 12:6-8

Jesus was always being scrutinised by the Pharisees. They were constantly looking out for things he did to break the law to find reasons to accuse him. However, Jesus put mercy and grace above the law and so he healed a man with a shriveled hand on the Sabbath. Jesus reminded the Pharisees that God desires mercy and not sacrifice, and that the innocent should not be condemned in keeping the law.

Similarly, we must always remember that God wants us to show grace and mercy to others and not just abide by laws blindly or be legalistic for the sake of it. We should not go about our daily routines, no matter how holy it could be, and neglect extending God's grace and mercy to those who need it.

Dear Lord Jesus, forgive me for the legalistic routines in my daily life. Help me to be sensitive to the needs of the people around me and extend Your grace and mercy to those whom You put in my life. May my life be a living testimony of the indescribable depths of Your love to us and the reality of Your presence in our daily lives. Amen.

The Tunnel

2009-04-07T13:17:00.004+08:00

It is true that people grow from trials and difficulties. I must have grown a lot over the past week. It is tough to go through something and not be able to talk about it openly because of the great impact it would create. It is difficult when even your closest family and friends cannot truly understand how you feel. It is difficult when you smell the air of injustice and have to accept it as a part of life. It is sad when you're the weaker one.

It's at this time that God reminds me that He is my comforter and pillar of strength, that He is still in control. That He is not a God who condemns, but He's full of love, grace and compassion. And no one can take Him away from me.

I am looking forward to the light at the end of the tunnel.

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26

More on the Wedding!

2009-04-03T17:33:00.005+08:00

Many people have been asking me how's the wedding preparation going. Actually, it's very smooth-going because I'm blessed with so many wonderful friends and supportive parents who has helped, encouraged and advised me along the way. Family and friends are indispensable in the process of wedding planning!

I think besides the budget, the guest list is one of the most important parts of planning for a wedding. I have attended many weddings, sometimes alone, and I have found that my experience at any wedding is very much determined by who I sit with at the dinner table. For example, sitting as a single through a 2 hour wedding dinner with a whole table of couples you don't know is really no fun.

When guests are seated with people they are comfortable with and can interact easily, you don't need a cool live band, a talkative mc, karaoke-ing relatives or impromptu performances for entertainment. Just play nice soothing music to complement their conversations!

I don't expect the guests at my wedding to be looking at me the whole time (I don't really like too much attention), but I do want them to have a good time.

So one of the keys to having a fun wedding is simply to know how to arrange your guests at the dinner table. And make sure you don't miss out anyone!

The Wonder of Creation

2009-04-02T19:09:00.009+08:00

I love going on walks with my dogs. During my off days, Spottie will wait by my side at 4.30 pm anticipating his 45 minute evening walk. To him, the evening walk is the best thing in the world.

I love seeing Spottie go on his usual route. He will visit his friends from the neighbourhood one by one - the dashund, the labrador, Chloe the mixed retriever, Susie the shih tzu and a few more. Of course not all his friends are pure breed dogs, many are mongrels too! I believe that all dogs are beautiful regardless of breed.

I have learnt a lot from walking my dog. He enjoys nature so much, taking his time to sniff things out, his tail held high in confidence as he walks and the way the hair on his back stands when he's being threatened. I have learnt to enjoy nature the same way, savouring the wind and sun on my face, examining the amazing texture of different kinds of plants and trees and observing how dogs relate to each other.

As we walk together, we have this unique bond between 2 friends, a human and a dog. Both very different in nature, and yet, created by the same God. I believe that God created animals and nature to help us understand more about Himself, teach us how to live fulfilling lives and bring us peace, joy and healing in different circumstances.

And God said, "Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: livestock, creatures that move along the ground, and wild animals, each according to its kind." And it was so. God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:24-25

The Story of the Ant

2009-04-01T12:38:00.006+08:00

Every day, a small ant arrives at work enthusiastically and starts work immediately. She produces a lot and she was happy.

The Chief, a lion, was surprised to see her working without supervision.

He thought if the ant can produce so much without supervision, wouldn't she produce even more if she had a supervisor!

So he recruited a cockroach who had extensive experience as a supervisor and who was famous for writing excellent reports.

The cockroach's first decision was to set up a clocking in attendance system. He also needed a secretary to help him write and type reports and he recruited a spider, who managed archives and monitored all phone calls.

The lion was delighted with the cockroach's reports and asked him to produce graphs to describe production rates and to analyse trends, so that he could use them for presentations at Board meetings.

So the cockroach had to buy a new PC and a laser printer and recruited a fly to manage to IT department.

The ant, who had once been so productive and relaxed, hated this new plethora of paperwork and meetings which used up most of her time!

The lion came to the conclusion that it was high time to nominate a person in charge of the department where the ant worked.

The position was given to the cicada, whose first decision was to buy a carpet and an ergonomic chair for his office.

The new person in charge, the cicada, also needed a PC and personal assistant, whom he brought from his previous department to help him prepare a Work and Budget Control Strategic Optimisation Plan.

The department where the ant works is now a sad place, where nobody laughs anymore and everybody has become upset.

It was at that time that the cicada convinced the boss, the lion, of the absolute necessity to start a climatic study of the environment.

Having reviewed the charges for running the ant's department, the lion found out that the production was much less than before.

So he recruited the owl, a prestigious and renowned consultant to carry out an audit and suggest solutions.

The owl spent 3 months in the department and came up with an enormous report, in several volumes, that concluded:

"The department is overstaffed..."

Guess who the lion fires first?

The ant, of course, because she "showed lack of motivation and had a negative attitude..."

The First Rule

2009-03-29T23:20:00.017+08:00

This is a story of Snowy the dog. Snowy was sent into the world as a puppy to fulfill a mission. As Snowy grew up, he knew that Daddy his Creator loved him immensely and always watched over him. He was taught 2 rules in life; to love Daddy more than anything in the world and to love his fellow dogs.

As Snowy grew older, he saw how adult dogs around him would hurt one another. He told Daddy that he always wanted to have a tender puppy heart. One day, he decided to work at a house that was made to heal dogs. Snowy found a job as a clown in that place and that made him very happy and thankful!

As time passed, Snowy was given more tasks. Besides being a clown, he was also given a pack of other dogs to care for - sled dogs, herd dogs, guard dogs and pet dogs. Although Snowy felt exhausted at times, he loved taking care of the pack of dogs because they were so unique and special. Snowy knew that his Daddy loved all of them very much.

After awhile, Snowy felt that he could not continue as a clown anymore. Everyone wanted his clown shows and he had run out of ideas. Caring for the pack of dogs took a lot of time and effort too. Snowy knew that a new clown must be found. However, he still loved working with the pack of dogs and found that his Daddy had given him a special gift to care for other dogs. So he told his master of this. His master listened and Snowy felt happy. Meanwhile, Snowy continued to do many clown shows.

Sometime later, Snowy was summoned to see the master. Snowy was told that the master had decided to entrust the pack of dogs under his care to another dog, and Snowy was to learn to be a better clown. The master felt that Snowy was not good enough as a clown.

Snowy felt sad to hear the news because he now had to let go the pack of dogs he loved and cared for to another dog. His master felt that the new dog would do a better job than him in getting all the dogs to perform better. And he would have to just be a better clown. Snowy knew that he could not be the clown that the master wanted.

Nevertheless, Snowy believed that his Daddy still had a special mission for his life. And as Snowy made a crucial decision in the midst of a difficult situation, he remembered the first rule - to love Daddy more than anything in this world. And in remembering the first rule, he knew that Daddy would take care of him always.

The Loved Dog

2009-03-27T17:52:00.012+08:00

I read a book recently called 'The Loved Dog' by Tamar Geller. Her approach to dog training is through rewards and love and I have found this approach most effective for my dogs.

Spottie is half Dobermann and Bully is a Bull Terrier, and they're about the same age. Spottie has a more aggressive trait in him compared to Bully, and Bully just wants to play all the time.

When Bully came, they fought once. I suspect that Bully jumped on Spottie playfully while Spottie was trying to retrieve a bone near him and Spottie attacked. Bully sustained a head injury but recovered quick and Spottie was unharmed. It was shocking because Bully held on to Spottie's neck and didn't let go. One trait of the bull terrier is that they bite and don't let go.

So I began my search of effective dog training to make them friends. One thing the family did was to assure both of them that they were very loved. We played with them, took them on frequent walks together and gave them a lot of treats together. I'd sit both Bully and Spottie together (Bully is always leashed when Spottie is running loose for safety purposes), and give them treats. Now they would naturally sit whenever I'm out with them, anticipating their favourite treats!

Of course the family maintains the safety measures like not allowing both to run free together because we don't want another fight. Nevertheless, things are pretty good at home now as they can sleep close together as long as they're kept at arm's length from each other. And they don't provoke each other.

I think its very important for the dogs to feel secure and loved, they sense it from us and will be much calmer and loving in return. Both Spottie and Bully are like babies at home. However, we respect the fact that they are dogs and must do what dogs like to do - go on walks, get their physical exercise, respect their hierarchies and understand their canine instincts.

Also, dogs need to be socialised with each other from young. Both Spottie and Bully have friends around the neighbourhood and we allow them to play and sniff one another while on their walks. However, we have to be very alert when dogs are socialising because its not always that they get along.

Dogs are a joy to have around. When I get home, they always put a smile on my face. I have learnt a lot from my dogs over the years and I thank God for what He's taught me through them.

Me

2009-03-23T20:26:00.005+08:00

I'm not the type of person who wants to make it big. Nor am I the type who is comfortable with too much attention or fame. I like hanging out with close friends and family, and don't particularly like to meet new people that often. I enjoy silence and being alone, listening to my own thoughts and tuning in to God's voice.

I was watching a travel programme on TV today, and something I heard struck me. It went like this, "People ask me how can I put my life on hold like that (to travel)? And my answer is how can you not?"

That made me think - If there's a specific calling in my life to do something, how can I not do it? It doesn't matter what anyone thinks, they won't understand because my calling in life is unique. I should not let anyone dictate what I do in life, although they can advise - as long I know God's specific call for me and the passion that cannot be extinguished from my heart.

Thoo and me had the opportunity to meet a missionary last Sunday. He told us that we have to be clear of God's calling for us (in any specific work), because its His calling that will sustain us through difficult times. He heard God call him to be a missionary very clearly and that led him to 10 fulfilling years serving in the opposite side of the world.

I believe that if God has called us to do any specific work, He will make it clear to us and He will sustain us if we sincerely seek Him. God does not have to go through different people (of higher rank, etc) to speak to us because we have a direct relationship with Him through Jesus Christ.

but the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what my Father has commanded me. John 14:31

Good and Faithful Servant

2009-03-19T23:42:00.006+08:00

Been quite an exhausting but interesting day. Struggled to wake up at 6:15 am after only about 5 hours sleep last night (not easy for a person who needs 8 hours sleep a night like me).

Today marks the start of the 3 day National Children's Workers Conference. Am really thankful for the staff and Dew Crew who worked really hard to get things in place.

Am quite sleepy at this point after running around for about 16 hours... but want to mention a few things so that I will remember!

Learnt a few things at two of Sam Tee's workshop today called 'Clownology' and 'Creative Arts in Missions'. That each of us has specific skills that God has given us and we must use it to tell of His love to others. This gift can be anything from cooking to being a clown! And God has not only called us to be faithful but also to be good, hence 'Good and faithful servant'. So when we want to use our gifts, we have to maximise them and explore unique opportunities to use them. I like this quote from Sam - 'Repetition is the mother of all skills'. The way to obtain a skill is to do it again and again.

Like always, I hope our efforts in supporting this event will bear much fruit that will last and will not just pass as another event. Sam told the workshop participants today that it is time to do something practical, and not just hop from one conference to another.

Ok, its midnight. I better sleep if I want to get 6 hours sleep tonight.

Monday Smiles

2009-03-16T21:44:00.008+08:00

Today's been a really wonderful day. Woke up around 10 am, had a sumptious buffet lunch with my colleagues and went to Ikea after that to buy some items for my future home. Spent the rest of the day at home with the dogs, had dinner with my parents, watched tv and did some reading and journalling.

I'm cherishing today because the rest of this week's going to be really packed and the late nights will start again. Got another call from a bank today. I've been getting so many of these calls from different banks offering me more credit, loans, insurance and all kinds of schemes. They really seem to be quite desperate for business. I've gotten immune to all these offers, and once I discover that they want to 'offer' me something, I turn them down straight away (politely, of course).

As for wedding plans, the most recent thing we've done is review the guest list. Its growing on my end! We've also ordered our wedding bands and they were on discount. The rings are not too expensive or fancy, but something we can wear comfortably everyday.

One thing I'm looking forward to after getting married is learning how to cook! Yes, I have been inspired by my mum and friends who can cook so well. I used to cook during my university days, but I have hardly ever cooked anything proper since returning to Malaysia. Time to start again before I get too old. Plus we need to eat healthily and save some money! Moreover, I do believe that cooking well is a pre-requisite of being a good wife (Must be the Chinese genes).