Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!

身不由己！

2011-11-15T23:02:00.002+08:00

你有没有这种经验，觉得自己好像活在别人的世界，过着属于别人的生活，自己好像是人生的傀儡，有一种身不由己的感觉？人生就真的是那么的残忍吗？一旦走错了一步，就真的要赔上一生吗？站在十字路口时，发现自己原来有选择权，只是以前怎么都不知道？好像是一只老鹰被锁在一间小房间，不能飞得高，飞得远。是幻觉吗？还是想太多了呢？为什么会觉得好像快要失去自我了呢？好像一只失去了飞翔能力的老鹰，变成了一只小鹦鹉，只能在小房子里生活。人都会向往着能自由的飞翔。。。我也一样！

想念一个人 - 好难受！

2010-09-14T22:54:00.008+08:00

想念一个人是什么滋味？就好像喝了一杯加料的热咖啡，苦苦的，心口是热热的，顿时间，鼻子酸溜溜的，眼睛里充满了泪水，有生病的感觉，却没有药可以治疗这伤痛。想念着你时，心里好像世界上的空气，突然都变质了，好难呼吸！虽然一直跟自己说，不要再想你了，可是心里就是不听话，偏偏要往痛苦的方向走，好像在惩罚自己，让痛苦来掩盖对你的思念。想念，每一个动作都比以前慢了半拍，每一个眼神都比以前淡了一个色调，不想动，不想做任何事，只想想念，于是，每一个转身，每一个念头，每一个叹息都会衍生出更多的思念。。。我只想说：我好想你！不知道你是否也像我一样在想你。

The God of giving!

2010-04-26T09:24:00.004+08:00

God always amazes me!

I needed a digital piano, as the previous one has given up it's ghost. I researched for one on the internet, but came to a conclusion that I really couldn't afford to get any as they were too costly! There was a particular brand and model that I love, but it has since been a discontinued item - Yamaha P200! I would LOVE to have one! I love the sound, the touch of it so much, that I even offered to babysit the one in church, should there be any chance if they are getting a new one, ha ha! Than I took a bold step by asking God to bless me with a digital piano - doesn't matter which brand, which model, cos you know, beggars cant be choosers right?

In the midst of it, I also asked God to open doors for me, especially in the area of career advancement. Not long after I prayed, God answered!

First it was a call from my friend's aunt. She told me that the digital piano that she inherited from my friend is no longer in use, as her daughter has stopped playing on it, and is now sitting in the storeroom! She wanted to GIVE it to me, but told me that I needed to repair it, as it may no longer be working. Without any hesitation (I took it that it was from the Lord), I arranged to pick it up from her place. Once we reached home, I kept praying that it is not faulty, or at least not too damaged till the point of no repair. Then imagine the smile on my face when we first switched it on, and hearing the sound for the first time! Of cos it still needed a little bit of repair, but thank God because it's just a minor fault! Best part of it, it is a Yamaha P200! My dream piano!

Next came another surprise! One of my friend called me telling me that he has a business proposal. We sat down, talked about it, prayed about it and felt that we should go ahead with it! Guess what? I got another digital piano from there too! And just so happens that one of my friend's student wanted to let go her well-maintained Kurzweil piano at a very good rate! Everything seems to be so well co-ordinated! And as if that is not amazing enough, He opened the door for me to get a brand new laptop as well! How amazing can that be!

God is truly the God of giving! He blesses beyond what we can ask or even think of!

I learned that giving is not just an expression of love, it's an expression of giving of yourself! Thank you!

'God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say "thank you?"' ~William A. Ward

'You can give without loving, but you can never love without giving.' ~Author Unknown

'What we are is God's gift to us. What we become is our gift to God.' ~Eleanor Powell

An opened door?

2010-04-10T08:35:00.003+08:00

When a door is open for you, do you ever wonder whether is it from the Lord? Or do you still stick to what you've been doing all the while, knowing that you've always been asking for an open doors and now it's right before your eyes? How do you determine what is right or wrong for you? I know we're supposed to pray and ask God for answer and direction, but sometimes it's kind of a contradiction, because here we are, wanting a way out and praying about it, then seemingly the Lord opened the way but we ask, 'is that You Lord?'. Are we stubborn mules who refuse to move just because we're comfortable in the known, and uncomfortable in the unknown? Why is it that when we come to situations concerning our own self, everything becomes so magnified and decisions seem to be difficult to make? Who are you? What would you do?

Leave me alone!

2010-04-03T23:34:00.004+08:00

Ever been discouraged before? Ever felt that things are just not going the right way? Ever wondered what is happening?

I'm not sure how it happened, but it did! Just didn't know what was going on, had the feeling that seemingly all these discouraging factors ganged up against me and all things good went on strike today! It was supposed to be a great day, much anticipation for the evening healing rally, after seeing so many miracles the night before! But what happened along the way? Why are people behaving so differently? So many 'whys' but so little answer.

I wanted to scream 'Leave me alone'. Suddenly. I just wanted to move away from the crowd, from everyone! I just wanted to be alone! But yet, I wanted someone to be with me, to lift me up, to encourage me, to love me, to affirm me, to assure me that I'm doing well, I'm doing what is right, I'm worth it!

Strange how humans can go through emotional roller coaster and yet, still wonders what went wrong! Haiz! Aren't we a funny bunch?

Who is going to be there for me? Who will lift me up, encourage me, love me, affirm me and assure me? Besides God, the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, I don't know who else? We can't be always dependent on people, because human beings will fail us, but yet, we look to them for all our comfort needs!

Maybe it's because people disappoints us in so many ways that we start to take it personally. Haha!

Well, I will never be alone, because He is always with me! How true and incredible that actually is! He will always be with me!!!

我快要放弃了 :(

2009-12-16T16:12:00.003+08:00

我受不了了！已经没有坚持的力气了。放弃吧！因为我累了 :(

无奈。。。不知所措。。。

2009-12-08T17:02:00.004+08:00

Trying to express something for a friend (我似乎能体会你的感受）:
There were many occasions in life that we seemingly walked to a cross road junction and then realised that we do not know which way to go. Sometimes, we chose the wrong way, but there were times when we were lead by instincts and made the right decision. Most of the time, we're just lost, we're not sure which way to go

"I've just reached a particular point in life where I feel so confused, lost, but yet I knew exactly what was going on and what happened. It's such a complicated and mixed up feeling that I can't even put it down in words. It's like 我很享受你给我的温暖，关心，爱心和支持。环绕在你的身边是我最喜欢的一件事，喜欢看着你，喜欢听到你温柔的声音，喜欢你的味道，喜欢你的眼睛，期待你的来电，期待你会多看我一眼，期待你能天天陪着我，期待着你对我微笑。没有你我很难呼吸，没有你我会没有胃口，会不想起床。
可是，因为害怕，因为知道我们不会有结果，因为不知道你对我到底是什么感觉，为了不让自己受到伤害，为了不让你感到尴尬，我必须让你走。为什么你要来挑动我的心呢？我该怎么办呢？
那，你还会继续待在我的身边吗？你会走过来吗？你会想我吗？"

But, which way to go? Cross road junction is not somewhere I wanna be, but once I've reached it, I'll have to learn to be responsible for any decision made!

What comes after the tears?

2009-11-23T11:03:00.002+08:00

Regrets - many of us experienced that at different point of our lives. I just did! I didn't get to visit my cousin and say goodbye to him before he went home to be with the Lord.
As long as I can remember, growing up was always like 7 in e family, my parents, both my grandmas, my brother, me and my cousin! He stayed with us whenever he didn't have to travel, you see, he was a sailor. Childhood memories of him bringing us toys, clothings, accessories whenever he came back from a long trip always warm my heart. He loved music. In fact, it was because of his love of music that I started playing the piano. It all started when my mother and my uncle each bought a piano, even before I was conceived! Mum was hoping that after I was born, I would pick it up, as no one in the family was musically inclined, except my cousin Joseph. Whenever he was in town, piano practice became a chore! He would sit right next to me and forced me to practice. I remember the time when he wanted me to learn the song: The Maiden's Prayer, I cried, cos my fingers were not long enough to press all the octaves (I was only 9), so I had my neighbour to help me 'pull' and stretch my thumbs and pinkies apart everyday. Ouch! But the satisfaction was whenever I started playing the piano, my dad and cousin would close their eyes and enjoy the music! It was years later that I started loving music! And I have to thank my cousin for that! I am where I am today serving God because of this love of music! What a deep impact that was!
When we last visited him, he was already hallucinating, telling us that he was being locked and trapped inside the house. He wanted us to help him get out. But yet, he talked sense at times, especially everytime when we prayed for him. Before we left, he begged us to stay and keep him company. He told us he was lonely and afraid. He said he had no one beside him. His eyes were filled with plea. My heart ached! We had to leave!
What now? Now that he's gone? I wished I was there yesterday! I wished I knew he was going! I wished! But what now?
Well, after the natural process of grieving is over, we have to pick ourselves up and move on! Not that we want to forget him, but like one of my dear friend mentioned before,now we have to make everyday of our lives count! Making it worth! Making a difference! I want to impact someone else's life too, just like my cousin. At the end of the day, what would my life count for depends on how I live it now!

My Sister's Keeper - review

2009-11-12T09:44:00.003+08:00

It's a little bit social and a little bit leukemia awareness.
I was very excited when I realised that there was going to be a movie on this popular novel by Jodi Picoult. The movie followed mostly closed to the original novel but added it's own twist at the end, I guess it was to make it more appealling to the movie-goers. Cameron Diaz played a very convincing role as a mother, one who would do anything to protect her child, although one wonders if one was in her shoes, would one have reacted the same way too? Conceiving another child for the sake of saving one seems a bit complex, intriguing and troubling. The climax of the movie started when Anna decided to sue her parents and wanted to have the legal rights to her own body as she was tired of always being put under the knife to help her sister. But it doesn't end there! Throughout the movie, you could see the inner struggles every family member went through as they learn to accept the different believes and opinions of each other. There were times of joy, sadness, pain, helplessness and even strength portrayed as the characters developed throughout the movie. The movie kept having flashbacks and one has to get used to and knowing when is the 'present' and when is the 'past'. On the whole, it was a good movie but not one that draws you emotionally and deeply. I would rate it as 3.5/5

What 'Friendship' means to me:

2009-11-02T20:09:00.004+08:00

Came across some beautiful quotes about 'Friendship', something I treasure very much. To all my friends, this is for you:
1. A friend is one of the nicest things you can have, and one of the best things you can be. ~Douglas Pagels
2. Friendship isn't a big thing - it's a million little things. ~Author Unknown
3. The friend is the man who knows all about you, and still likes you. ~Elbert Hubbard, The Notebook, 1927
4. True friendship comes when silence between two people is comfortable. ~Dave Tyson Gentry
5. The language of friendship is not words but meanings. ~Henry David Thoreau
6. My friends are my estate ~Emily Dickinson
7. A friend is one who walks in when others walk out ~Walter Winchell

Emotions - a roller coaster ride!

2009-10-06T23:53:00.006+08:00

What would the world be if there were no emotions in it? Can you picture a mother who doesn't feel any fear when she can't find her child? Or a husband not feeling jealous seeing his wife holding another man's hands? Or a loved one has still not arrived home after many hours and not be worried about it? Or a student waiting for his results without any anxiety? Or not being angry at someone snatching a bag from a helpless old lady? Yes, what a disaster! But then again, these are negative emotions! Emotions affect our reaction, decision and choices! Most of the time, these negative emotions also bring us emotionally, mentally and even spiritually down!
But are emotions bad for us? NO! God made us filled with feelings! Feelings of emotions!
Then what should we feel? The Bible says in Philippians 4:8

'Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think his dabout these things.'

Who knows? Maybe things are not like what it seems? Maybe the mother is not fearful because she knew that the child is safe with his dad? Or the husband is not jealous because his wife is holding her father's hand? Or the loved one has not reached home yet because he had a flat tyre? Or the student not anxious because she studied real hard? Or that the thief who snatched from the old lady was stopped by the police just around the corner?
I remembered an old song: ALWAYS LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE OF LIFE!!! In this dark and gloomy world, we need to be different because we know where and who can we go to for LOVE, JOY and PEACE as our domineering emotions!
Lord, teach me to constantly look towards you, to show forth Your love, Your joy and Your peace by displaying all these Positive emotions in and through me!

Regrets?

2009-09-19T16:08:00.002+08:00

Have you ever wanted to do something and by the time you did it, you'd regret it afterwards? I have.
You see, I came across the Samsung website and saw that I could upgrade my phone's system. Being curious and not wanting to let slip this opportunity, I upgraded my phone. I followed diligently the instruction given and was very pleased when everything went smoothly! Imagine the shock when I started scrolling through my phone and found out that everything was back to factory setting, with an upgraded system! Everything was lost! All my contacts, my files and folders, my documents, my calendar appointments, EVERYTHING!!! Then I tried calling it back from the laptop by sync-ing it, but even those on my laptop was gone! I regreted it so much cos it'll take me many weeks to start all over again!
But after the initial heart-breaking feeling is over, you start to wonder, maybe it's really time to just move on, and use this time to start getting in touch with people, start talking to them, using the excuse of wanting their phone number to start getting to know them better, etc.
Well, in everything give thanks for this is the will of God!

Never live in regrets, just move on and see the beautiful rainbow after the rain!

Patience - Fruit of the Spirit!

2009-06-06T02:45:00.001+08:00

Patience is a virtue. Patience is part of the Fruit of the Spirit. Patience is a test of character.
But yet, to acquire Patience itself needs patience too. Too many times in life, the moment you think you've 'collected' enough, situation just 'conveniently' swing by to test your patience and most of the time, that small level of patience seems to be at the edge of snapping.
You need patience for everything. Patience when you are learning new things/skills, patience in office or school, patience when dealing with people, patience when parenting, patience when at the cross road junction waiting for the traffic light to change, patience when we feel hurt or misunderstood, patience when we are in the wrong and need forgiveness, patience even when waiting for our cup to be filled with water when we need a drink!
Sometimes I really wonder, is it really working? To hold on to my patience, and pray that the situation will just get better? or just let myself go and pick up the pieces after the big explosion? I guess that is the time when we have to weigh the consequences, bite the bullet and let God's peace and patience and L-O-N-G S-U-F-F-E-R-I-N-G take over.
I need patience to be patient!

Looking at even the most minute things in life requires of it, Lord, I need more patience! Teach me Lord!

What is your cup?

2009-06-05T00:00:00.001+08:00

A cup is a type of container from which a drink is consumed. It can be coffee, tea, milk, fizzy drinks, herbal tea or even just water. But I just learned from someone that she actually uses different cups for different drinks. A glass cup is used for drinks like milk or bandung, cos you can actually see the purity of the drink before you bring it close to your mouth. But once you use a cup for coffee, that cup should not be used for any other drinks, as we do not want to mix the taste of other drinks into the cup. How true it is, that we never really see a cup as close as that.

But what about us? Are we a 'cup' that is used for many different kinds of 'drinks'?

We need a daily filling of the Lord's presence and His Holy Spirit. But along the way, there seems to be many kinds of 'rubbish' in the world that flood our mind. Do we use e same 'cup' to fill all those too? Are we mixing the different kinds of 'drinks'? Are we polluting our mind and heart?

Let's be a designated cup, only to be used for one kind of drink! Cheers!

A Beautiful Heart

2009-05-19T23:15:00.002+08:00

One day a young man was standing in the middle of the town
proclaiming that he had the most beautiful heart in the whole valley.
A large crowd gathered and they all admired his heart for it was perfect.
There was not a mark or a flaw in it.
Yes, they all agreed it truly was the most beautiful heart they had ever seen.
The young man was very proud and boasted more loudly about his beautiful heart.

Suddenly, an old man appeared at the front of the crowd and said,
"Why your heart is not nearly as beautiful as mine."
The crowd and the young man looked at the old man's heart.
It was beating strongly ... but it was full of scars ...
it had places where pieces had been removed and other pieces put in ...
but they didn't fit quite right and there were several jagged edges.
In fact ... in some places there were deep gouges where whole pieces were missing.
The people stared ... how can he say his heart is more beautiful ... they thought?

The young man looked at the old man's heart ... and saw its state and laughed.
"You must be joking," he said. "Compare your heart with mine ...
mine is perfect and yours is a mess of scars and tears."
"Yes" ... said the old man ... "yours is perfect looking but ...
I would never trade with you.
You see ... every scar represents a person to whom I have given my love ...
I tear out a piece of my heart and give it to them ...
and often they give me a piece of their heart
which fits into the empty place in my heart ...
but because the pieces aren't exact ...
I have some rough edges ... which I cherish ...
because they remind me of the love we shared.

Sometimes I have given pieces of my heart away ...
and the other person hasn't returned a piece of his heart to me.
These are the empty gouges ... giving love is taking a chance.
Although these gouges are painful ...
they stay open ... reminding me of the love I have for these people too ...
and I hope someday they may return and fill the space I have waiting.
So now do you see what true beauty is?"

The young man stood silently with tears running down his cheeks.
He walked up to the old man ... reached into his perfect young and beautiful heart ...
and ripped a piece out.
He offered it to the old man with trembling hands.
The old man took his offering ... placed it in his heart ...
and then took a piece from his old scarred heart ...
and placed it in the wound in the young man's heart.
It fit ... but not perfectly ... as there were some jagged edges.
The young man looked at his heart ...
not perfect anymore but more beautiful than ever ...
since love from the old man's heart flowed into his.
They embraced and walked away side by side.
-Author Unknown-

I'm so blessed!!!

2009-05-05T07:11:00.005+08:00

Have you ever stopped doing what you were doing and just sit back, look back from where you were and realise that you have been through an amazing ride in life? I have!
Here I am, a not so noticable, not too smart, not too talented nor am I gifted, but yet, I felt so favoured by the Lord that He has blessed me with all that I needed in life: a wonderful husband, a beautiful family, a healthy and fulfilled life, talents that seemingly can bless others, a career that lets me do what I love to do, friends that are ever so dear and special to me, what else can I ask for???
What about you? Why don't you stop for just a little while, look back, be thankful and just enjoy what the Lord has blessed you?
I am blessed! Are you??

GOOD NEWS SINGAPORE

2009-04-14T23:16:00.004+08:00

Good News Singapore - 10th to 12th April 2009, Singapore Indoor Stadium
Preparation work begun as early as last year 2008.
Our church has not been organising such big crusade for a while and everybody was excited about it.
I must say the publicity team did really great with all the video presentations, the outstanding handbills and all.
We had fun doing the handbill saturation, everyone was enthusiatic and really looking forward the event.
When news of people coming to the event from as far as China, Vietnam and Indonesia, we were really excited. We were also told of the many opportunities where church members were able to invite people to the event.
When the day came, the stadium was packed FULL on Friday night and even the overflow hall was fully occupied.
When it was time for salvation respond, my heart teared to see so many gave their hearts to God.
When one soul get saved, the angels in heaven rejoices, seeing so many souls reponded to God, heaven must be having a party cum celebration!!!
I had a wonderful time with the choir too, as everyone was very responsive and served with their whole heart!
I was told that the choir, musicians and lead singers brought such a high impact to the congregation too, many really celebrated and worshipped as a church! Praise the Lord!
I'm so honoured to be part of this team!

Well, GNS was fantastic! Looking forward to the next one, perhaps next year?
:)

The Joy of the Lord is your strength!

2009-03-27T14:15:00.004+08:00

Recently has been bombarded with a lot of bad, sad, unfair, sudden, difficult situation etc kind of news. From the media to even people I know of, down to my loved ones, it's been flooding our mind and heart and thoughts. But somehow, beyond all human efforts, solely based on God's promises, we can still find peace and joy in the midst of all these. Indeed the JOY of the Lord IS our strength. For those who are going through a rough patch, cling on!

1. Been missing a dear friend recently, and also just learned of another church brother's sudden demise, I do feel saddened. But all glory to God, I know He is enjoying their company up in heaven :)
2. Also been counselling friends who are going through difficult times, esp in their marriages. It's emotionally very draining, zapping all my emotional, mental n physical energy. But all glory to God, He has been giving me wisdom as to how to help them along.
3. Feeling a little uncertain about what our future holds, esp since I am not working full time anymore, but doing the things that I love to do, I'm still fearful about sudden 'rainy' days, should there be any. But all glory to God, His peace and His presence has always surrounds me everytime I turn to Him.

Last but not least, I'm thankful that whenever I need Him, even if I was just looking for His love, His peace, His joy, His Word of encouragement, His hand of comfort, HE IS ALWAYS THERE FOR ME!!!!

I love Him! Very much!!

Human Nature

2009-02-28T00:31:00.003+08:00

Why? I really question why there are so many different kinds of people in the world. I always think that those TV dramas were too exaggerated, esp some story lines n plot, n e human nature displayed were so unrealistic. Well, I WAS WRONG!
Never would I imagine meeting people of every kind, people who would back stab you, people who would try and make you a scapegoat, people who would take advantage of you (every single ounce of it) etc. I was not rightly treated, was very hurt and angry :'( I felt injustice and had an impulse to defend back! I wanted to shout back: 你把我当草，可是也有很多人把我当宝！I am of value, esp in the eyes of God!
I have to learn to lay it at the feet of the cross, let go and let God! Let God be my vindicator!
I really thank God that in times like this, I have a God that I can rely on.
God is good!

Good News Singapore!

2009-02-26T21:33:00.000+08:00

Back from China

2009-01-09T14:06:00.003+08:00

It's been so long since I've updated my blog. Haiz, I must say, I'm getting a bit lazy liao :P
I just came back from China, out there for 13 days for Ministry work. Had the best time of my life there cos I was able to work with a group fantastic musicians/servants of the Lord! I've never felt so at home serving together with them! They are indeed the best bunch ever!!!! Thank you guys!!!!
More photos will be uploaded later :)
In the meantime, you can check out some photos in my facebook :)
God bless you all and thanks for praying!!!

Nursing an injury

2008-12-06T11:22:00.004+08:00

Well, I sprained my upper left arm and shoulder a few weeks ago, and doctor had told me to rest and can only do light work, BUT, how to? I've got to do housework, was in Hong Kong for an exhibition that we had to set it all up - ouch..... don't know what is it, maybe it's what my fren called it - subscapularis injury. Hmm... gotta go find out what that it :)
Well, better get well before Christmas cos I'll be going to China soon, and I would not want anything hinder what God wants to do over there!
God is good and worthy to be praised!!!!! AMEN!!!!!!

On Green Green Plain - Singapore

2008-10-27T23:09:00.011+08:00

Was with Chuck Hong on his album launch in Singapore the last two weekends, touring a few different churches.
It was really tiring but a wonderful experience.
Queenstown Methodist Church:

Riverlife, Pasir Ris:

Group shot with the band in Sengkang Methodist church:

My new toy!

2008-09-26T08:23:00.002+08:00

I finally got my new toy - Samsung Omnia!
I was not ready to buy one yet because of the price, but since my old phone gave up its ghost and simple refused to work, I had every reason to just go and grab another phone, hehe. And I got it at a good price too! Thank the Lord！
So, if I'm asking you for your name when you sms or call, it's because I am still transfering my contacts, haha, ok?

My Johari Window

2008-09-18T08:30:00.004+08:00

Help me find out more about myself :)
http://kevan.org/johari?name=Anne+Sua

Have you been taking your vitamins?

2008-09-16T08:21:00.009+08:00

Lately decided to pop in vitamins regularly, then thought 'hey, what about spiritual vitamins?' Well, here are the vitamins necessary:

Anxious? Take Vitamin A.

All things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose (Rom 8:28)
=========
Blue? Take Vitamin B.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His Holy Name (Ps 103:1)
=========
Crushed? Take Vitamin C.
Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. (1 Pet 5:7)
=========
Depressed? Take Vitamin D.
Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. (James 4:8)
=========
Empty? Take Vitamin E.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His Name. (Ps 100:4)
=========
Fearful? Take Vitamin F.
Fear not, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God. (Isa 41:10)
=========
Greedy? Take Vitamin G.
Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put unto your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back. (Lk 6:38)
=========
Hesitant? Take Vitamin H.
How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, "Your God reigns." (Isa 52:7)
=========
Insecure? Take Vitamin I.
I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. (Phil 4:13)
=========
Jittery? Take Vitamin J.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. (Heb 3:8)
=========
Know nothing? Take Vitamin K.
Know this that the Lord is God, it is He that made us and not we ourselves. (Ps 100:3)
=========
Lonely? Take Vitamin L.
Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. (Mt 28:20)
=========
Mortgaged? Take Vitamin M.
My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness. (2 Cor 12:9)
=========
Nervous? Take Vitamin N.
Never, no never will I leave you nor forsake you. (Heb 13:5)
=========
Overwhelmed? Take Vitamin O.
Overcome evil with good. (Rom 12:21)
=========
Perplexed or puzzled? Take Vitamin P.
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. (Jn 14:27)
=========
Quitting? Take Vitamin Q.
Quit you like men and women, be strong. (1 Cor 16:13)
=========
Restless? Take Vitamin R.
Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him. (Ps 37:7)
=========
Scared? Take Vitamin S.
Stay with Me, and do not be afraid; for the one who seeks My life seeks your life; you will be safe with Me. (1 Sam 22:23)
=========
Tired? Take Vitamin T.
Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. (Isa 40:31)
=========
Uncertain? Take Vitamin U.
Understand that I am (the Lord). Before Me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after Me. (Isa 43:10)
=========
Vain? Take Vitamin V.
Vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one. (Acts 5:16)
=========
Wondering what to do? Take Vitamin W.
What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? (Mic 6:8)
=========
eXhausted? Take Vitamin X.
Exercise thyself rather unto godliness. (1 Tim 4:7)
=========
Yearning for hope? Take Vitamin Y.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff - they comfort me. (Ps 23:4)
=========
Zapped? Take Vitamin Z.
Zealous for good deeds. (Titus 2:14)

Samsung Omnia - My next target!!! :P

2008-09-02T08:28:00.000+08:00

Have been thinking of getting this phone. Found this on youtube and it was like, so cute!!!! Anyone got lobang?

God of this city

2008-08-29T11:06:00.002+08:00

Let's pray for our nation:

Thanks Ekman for introducing this to me.
God bless ya.
Cheers!

God is my hope and strength

2008-08-25T21:43:00.007+08:00

Been thinking a lot lately, guess sometimes it's good to ponder and use that time to pray and seek God for direction. Well, I was at a cross-road of staying or leaving (don't worry, I'm not talking about church :) haha), but felt it's time to just step out in faith. I was praying for God to provide before leaving, but the last few weeks, I was brought back to the story of Peter, where the Lord asked him to step out onto the waters first before even wondering if He was providing him a way to stand on water. Peter responded to His Word. What's His Word for me? I was challenged to just let go and let God! Yes, there are still a lot of uncertainties, I must admit, but I trust and believe that He WILL see us through! So, pray for me ya? The next few months will not be easy, but our God is an awesome God!!!! He is Jehovah! Amen!!

John 3:16

2008-08-08T08:08:00.001+08:00

The Father's love and sacrifice!

What is wriiten on your tombstone?

2008-08-04T08:42:00.005+08:00

Recently have been exposed to different messages regarding how we are spending so much time in work/school/other activities, but so little time for our family, friends and ourselves. Yes, I am guilty too. I really need to re-think my priorities, or even make drastic changes if need be, so that at the end of the day, I can honestly say that I have done my part in making my family, my friends and me happy.
I remember someone saying this before: What do we want in scripted on our tombstone? Is it: XXX was a 'filial' worker? XXX spent most of his/her days doing lots of OT? XXX slogged for the company who will not remember him/her after he/she left? XXX was a great church leader who ministered to others but not the family?
Or do we simply want: XXX was the greatest father/mother/son/daughter? XXX was fun to be around, to be remembered by family members and friends? You get what I mean....
So, therefore, we decided to help start a little at a time, we finally bot a Wii, after so long. We can use this small little device to play together as a family, help the girls relax and have fun all at the same time. Next target I wanna achieve is to get Lyn her bass guitar (she's been patiently waiting for so long, God bless her beautiful spirit)! My family means so much more than work is to me!
What about you? What do you want to be in scripted on your tombstone? (No choy choy choy cos it's seven month, we're not superstitious ok?)

Mission Impossible Theme song

2008-07-24T08:05:00.000+08:00

I like the way it was played. Have a listen:

SMILE! BE HAPPY!!!

2008-07-22T17:49:00.009+08:00

Smiling is infectious,
You can catch it like the flu.
Someone smiled at me today,
And I started smiling too.

Interesting

2008-07-18T08:50:00.000+08:00

Fantastic film of Italian police riders putting on a motorbike display in the 50s.

Friendship

2008-07-14T21:15:00.007+08:00

What is friendship?
Someone sent me this sms few days ago: Many people want to know how high you fly, but only a few want to know whether are you tired flying high. How true that is! In this world and society that we live in, we undoubtedly have many friends. But how many true best friends do we have? 知心朋友or 好朋友?
True friendship does not come by easily, but if you do have one or two, count your blessings!
I only realize this recently that I am very blessed, Yes! I do have many friends - 'hi' and 'bye' friends/casual friends/close friends, friends that are willing to stand by me. But friends who would really understand me even without me saying anything, friends who would still love me for who I am even though they've seen the ugliest side of me, friends who would give me a hand even before I asked for it, friends who would prepare the way before me and walk behind me even without me knowing..... these kind of friends, I do not have that many. But I thank God for the very few who are truly my friends, my 知心朋友.
So for this week, as it is 'Friendship' week, let me say a B-I-G THANK YOU to my 知心朋友. Although we may not communicate often, nor do we see each other regularly, you will always have a very special place in my heart and in my life.
HAPPY FRIENDSHIP WEEK! I love you! <3

One of my fav song

2008-07-11T08:00:00.001+08:00

你是如此愛我

愛到為我將你身體打破

你是如此愛我

默默地承擔我所有的錯

你是如此愛我

天涯到地極我無處可躲

你是如此愛我

愛到體恤我一切的軟弱

我愛你因為你先愛我

你的愛像慈繩愛索

啊 ~我別無所求

因為擁有你的愛這一生我已足夠

This week is a hectic week!

2008-07-08T21:12:00.011+08:00

Well, this week is Palme Asia exhibition week. My office is involved with a booth there and ever since last week, we've been busy getting ready for it. Palme started today but will go on till Thursday. I've been standing the whole of today (feet very tired, due to the fact that I was vain, wore heels :P I asked for it actually, haha). Tomorrow night there is a Palme 20th Anniversary celebration at Oosh in Dempsey Road, organized for the exhibitors and then Thursday after the event, it's pack up time. PHEW! Just thinking about it makes me tired liao! Wish someone else can do it for me :P
Anyways, looking forward to the weekends, cos it means everything is over liao, YEA.
If you are interested, do drop by at Palme to visit me, hehe. CYA

Pick Up Your Umbrella!

2008-07-03T17:17:00.012+08:00

Matthew 21:21-22 'I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done.'
We all have faith! We go to a doctor we hardly know. He hands us a prescription we cannot read. We take that prescription to a pharmacist we have never met. He gives us a medication we do not recognize or understand -- and we take it...all in faith! Faith in God does not come all at once. Faith is a step-by-step process that begins with one small step and increases as we go.
Joshua 3:15-17 During harvest the Jordan overflows its banks. When the priests carrying the Ark came to the edge of the river and stepped into the water, the water upstream stopped flowing. It stood up in a heap. So the people crossed over. (NCV)
Notice that God did nothing until those toes touched the water! That first step was all God needed to see! Many times, we won't take the first step because we're afraid we won't be able to make the whole journey.

Don't wait until you believe it all!
Don't wait until you can see it all!
Don't wait until you understand it all!

Just step out in childlike faith, knowing that every step deposits faith into your spiritual account and strengthens your trust in God. Got doubts? Don't we all? One way to weaken your doubts is by strengthening your faith in God. Some people say it doesn't really matter where we place our faith, as long as our faith is real. I could not disagree more!
A small country town was in desperate need of rain. One Sunday morning, the pastor of the church called for a special prayer meeting that night. The people gathered and when the pastor stood to lead the prayer time, his words stunned the crowd. "Only one of you came in faith." He looked down at the first row where a little girl sat - her umbrella in her hand. We can pray for rain, but we have faith when we pick up the umbrella!

Whole world in His hands

2008-07-01T17:26:00.013+08:00

'O Lord our Lord, how excellent Your name is,
How excellent Your name in all the earth.
Your glory fills the heavens beyond the farthest stars,
How excellent Your name in all the earth!
When I think about the heavens, the moon and all the stars,
I wonder what You ever saw in me.
But You took me and You loved me,
And You've given me a crown,
And now I'll praise Your name eternally!'

Really, think about it! How small and insignificant we are in this huge and vast universe！And yet, He can see me, He can see you in His eyes. I really am in awe of His greatness, glory, sovereignty and majesty, but yet, still cannot fathom His love for me. In His 'busy' schedule of controlling the whole world, He still has time dedicated especially for me. Therefore, I can do nothing but to praise and exalt Him with all my heart and sing to Him:

'How excellent Your name in all the earth!'

Daily devotion - Discipline

2008-06-27T08:39:00.002+08:00

“You are controlled by your new nature if you have the Spirit of God living in you . . . ”

-Romans 8:9 (TLB)

A harnessed horse contributes much more to life than a wild donkey. Energy out of control is dangerous; energy under control is powerful.
God does not discipline us to subdue us, but to condition us for a life of usefulness and blessedness. In His wisdom He knows that an uncontrolled life is an unhappy life, so He puts reins on our wayward souls that they may be directed into the “paths of righteousness.”
That is what God seeks to do with us; to tame us, to bring us under proper control, to redirect our energies. He does in the spiritual realm what science does in the physical realm. Science takes a Niagara River with its violent turbulence and transforms it into electrical energy to illuminate a million homes and to turn the productive wheels of industry.

Direct all my energy, Father, so that I may be a blessing to others.

4/6/08 - 5/6/08 (last 2 days) 最后两天了

2008-06-26T23:11:00.016+08:00

想不到，一转眼，就只剩下两天的时间了。还没离开前，我们在饭店附近走走，想看一看人民的居住环境以及享受一下纯朴的生活方式。
Time and tide wait for no man, how true is that! Before we knew it, it's almost the end of this journey. We were trying to get as much exposure to the life in Guangzhou before we leave.
许老师手上终于握住他的新玩具。哈哈。真为他感到开心。
Jon finally got his new toy! So happy for him.

之后，我们就到碧山湾温泉度假村，真的应该好好享受享受一下下了。
Bishanwan Hotspring Resort, here we come! I think everyone really deserves a break!

大家都带著喜悦的心情，等待着能把这几天累积的疲惫的身心，好好的浸泡在温泉里，好让我们能疏解压力和重新得力。这还是我第一次泡温泉呢。那儿有泡泡温泉，咖啡温泉，米酒温泉，冰火温泉，中药温泉等等。
We were excited about dipping in the hotspring (at least I was excited cos I've never tried it before). Just the thought of draining away the weariness and tiredness brings an air of anticipation of what is to come. There's bubble hotspring, coffee, wine, ice and fire, herbal, steam hotspring etc.
晚上我们到乡下人家吃晚餐，并把握老师们这一次在中国的最后一顿晚餐。一想到明天我们就要回去了，心里是又开心又难过。
Our last dinner meal in China for this trip. Treasure it while it last. Thoughts about going home the next day brings mixed feelings in my heart.
在温泉后面有一座小山，我们在最后一天还上山去看了一下，可是因为天气实在是太热了，我们没有留太久，反而想去泡最后一次的温泉呢。
We took a short stroll in the woods behind the hotspring resort. But because it was too hot that day, I could only think of dipping myself in the hotspring ONE LAST TIME :P
回去以后，中国之旅将会一直烙印在我的心理，因为她已经成为我的一部份了。好吧！我还会再回来的，你等我吧！
Well, the end of a great and memorable journey, but it will not end there for me as this trip has been imprinted deep in my heart. Looking forward to going there again! China, wait for me!

1/6/08 - 3/6/08 (Day 8 - 10) 第八到十天

2008-06-24T21:01:00.017+08:00

离开了温州，一到达了广州，就直接开车到东莞。一放下行礼后，就到一间工厂去事奉。
Well, it's time to leave Wenzhou. We went straight to DongGuan immediately after touch-down at GuangZhou. Then it was a special ministry night at a factory. Sorry, no photos cos we were not allowed to take any. It was there that we heard the testimonies of two brothers and their hometown in SiChuan. Thank God for His grace and mercy!
终于有一天可以放假，我们就乘机到饭店的SPA按摩，哦对了，这也是义恩第一次做按摩，好好玩哦。之后我们就到附近走走逛逛。
Monday was an 'off' day, where we went massaging and shopping :) not that there were anything special to buy, really 'CMI' kind lor :) We saw on the street an interesting T-shirt which we nearly bought - Bonald Buck print on it :P
晚上洪老师请我们吃日本餐，哇！好吃！我们老师们也利用这个时间更深入的互相培养感情。
That night was Chuck's treat to Japs restaurant. Very yummy, very relaxing, a time to fellowship and gel with each other again.
隔天，我们又是开车到广州，晚上到那儿的教会事奉，兄弟姐妹们都很热情的欢迎我们，最重要的是，他们都很期望进入神的当中。
Next day, drove down to GuangZhou & had night service there. The people were very receptive towards the Lord's leading & us. Thank God.
义诺和家人对我们很好。感谢他们。
Us with Enoch and his wife. They, together with their other siblings treated us very warmly. They brought us to dinner before service and supper after that.
聚会过后，又是到了吃的时间了。这次，我们要求要去喝咖啡，他们就带我们到这间有格调的cafe，喝喝咖啡，吃吃蛋糕。我们还试吃了鸭舌头呢！
This was where we went for supper. For once, we went to an 'ang mo' kind of food. We had coffee :) Very classy place :)
It was also there that I tried duck's tongue. Interesting taste, quite nice actually, hehe.
我很喜欢这一张照片，忍不住要放上去。儿子跟我。好看吗？哈哈
I like this picture, cant help but to put it up. son and me :) pretty right? hehehe hahaha

Daily devotion sharing: Leadership

2008-06-24T08:52:00.005+08:00

We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us.

-Romans 12:6 (NRSV)

What comes to mind when you think of leadership? Do you think of great leaders from the past? Or do you think of certain characteristics that you feel a good leader should possess - qualities like vision, self-confidence, communication skills, decisiveness? In the Christian setting, many of us hesitate to lead when asked. Perhaps we don't feel we possess the skills needed to be a good leader.

Jesus' leadership was not about leading in the business sense but rather about doing what God had called him to do. Likewise, we have unique talents and gifts from God, and we are called to use those gifts for serving, for building up the Body of Christ. (See Eph. 4:12.) At times we may pretend we don't hear God calling us to serve, or we may rationalize that we are too busy. We may even try to convince ourselves that we are not capable because someone else is more qualified. However, God doesn't call the qualified; God qualifies those called.

The heroes of the Bible were ordinary people with typical human flaws and weaknesses. They show us that when it comes to serving in God's kingdom, we don't have to be spectacular - just available. Spiritual leaders are ordinary people, called and enabled by God.

O God, give us the courage to serve as faithful disciples in the world around us. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.
Life is about letting God use each of us for a purpose.

Feeling alone?

2008-06-20T08:50:00.012+08:00

have u ever felt strangely alone all of a sudden?

i have.

in fact, this strange feeling came weirdly. out of the blue. juz happened.
i found myself needing space, needing time out, needing somebody to talk to, needing an outlet to release. i felt weird, strange, lost.
but i know it's also a good season cos i found myself talking to God so much more, whenever i need space, need time out, need someone to talk to and He's my outlet to release. in Him, i can find strength, peace, hope and love, He is the One who can hear not only my voice, but also my heart. i'm so glad that He is my Father, my God, my Saviour.
i ever told someone that 'pressure does not come from without, but from within', well, now i'm saying this to myself :) it's time for me to let go and let God！
Psalm 91:11-12 (NIV) For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
We always link this portion of the scripture to protection against the enemy, warfare etc. but today, i saw this in a different way. His angels are lifting me up in their hands - I am safe in God, so that I will not strike my foot against the stone: the cares and worries of this world! Amen!

hehe, just trying to 发牢骚 la！

30/5/08 - 31/5/08 (Day 6 & 7)

2008-06-18T22:02:00.018+08:00

大家都在学习，为了星期五晚上加油。Every team is practicing very hard for their 'show time' on Friday night.

这就是敬拜！This is the symbol of worship!

星期五晚上，我们跟学生们道别了。虽然是依依不舍，但天下无不散之宴席，只好把眼泪往里吞。下山后，还是吃东西。We had to part with our students and go down the mountains. What else but supper (again?) after settling down!

当我们到这间教会事奉时，我看到了这不止感动了我的心，更感动了我的灵的一目。
We went to this church on Saturday night, with the choir to minister. But this was a sight that not only caught my eyes, but also my heart.

唱诗班。他们是我的骄傲！
The choir :) They were wonderful! My pride and my joy!

会所很早就已经坐满了。大家都是为了慈爱的神而来。
The hall was packed FULL half an hour before the service started. Wow! I had a wonderful time worshiping with them.

过后，又是吃东西，不把我们养胖是假的呢：)
After that, what did we do? Make a guess. SUPPER!!! Again!

28/5/2008 - 29/5/2008 (day 4 and 5)

2008-06-17T19:33:00.008+08:00

接下来的两天，我们是加紧把握所有时间来上课跟练习，因为星期五晚上每个团队都要上台示范，所以大家都会找机会练习。而老师们在休息时间会到附近的小溪散散心，拍拍照。Day after day, all we need is more time, but seemingly, it's always not enough :) whenever we have time, we would juz walk over to the little stream for a time of relaxation, a time to be part of nature, to breathe in the air of freshness.
看到温州兄弟姐妹们敬拜，有时会让我感动，眼泪也会不听使唤的掉下来。Worship - in the eyes of the brothers and sisters there in Wenzhou, somehow the meaning is so different.

华强老师分享了一段非常感人肺腑的讯息，谢谢你把神要说的都传达出来。Jon shared a message on Thursday night that I think is truly God-given, thought provoking and inspiring.

当然，蛋挞是我们的压轴罗。Then came the highlight of the night. Well, it came timely too because on Wednesday night, we actually had no water to bathe, to even brush our teeth. We then went down the mountain for supper (which was very heavy, more like dinner), dry clean ourselves before heading back up the mountains. But for egg tart, it was worth it :)

2008-06-17T17:02:00.007+08:00

When I am down, You are always there,
When I am lost, You will always find me,
When I am afraid, You gave me peace,
When life is not a bed of roses,
You comfort me.
When there seems to be no hope,
You light shines through!
Let me shine for You Lord,
Let me shine like You do!

27/5/2008 (Day 3) 第三天 - 课程正式开始

2008-06-16T00:09:00.039+08:00

这是我们女老师的睡房，也是老师们每天早上一起祷告的地方。This is the girl's room, also where all the teachers meet for daily devotion and prayer. We usually hang out in the boy's room.

梁伟强老师，我最喜欢他所弹的键盘二，特别是萨克斯管，好好听哦。I've never met anyone blowing into his synth, until now (I know I'm a bit suaku). His saxophone 'blowing' was great!

许华强老师，一位附有爱心和非常善良的人。Jonathan Koh, multi talented, even though he's got an impressive background in the past, he's very humble, with a gentle and kind heart.

林义恩老师，我们最年轻，最帅的贝斯老师，也是我这一次最大的祝福之一。感谢神让我们相遇！Well, youngest and most 'handsomestest' (ahum, cough) bassist, also one of my greatest blessings through this trip. My god-son Sean! Thank God for letting our paths meet.

杨少伟老师，我很喜欢和他聊天，因为每每与他说话以后，自己的心情也会好起来。Jeremy, talented and fun guy to hang around with. He brought lots of laughter into the group. Thanks Jeremy!

秋云老师，一位我非常敬佩的人。她的才华是有目共睹的。CY, what can I say? You've always been an inspiration to many people around you. It's God's gift to you. I'm so glad that you've been blessing the Kingdom of God. Thank you!

当然，不要忘记我们的灵魂人物，洪启元老师和阿Hum老师。洪老师不止要领唱，还要教导学生们如何带领大家进入崇拜。阿Hum老师把音响系统管理的十全十美。他不愧是我合作过最好的调音师。哇！大家都很专业。Not forgetting, Chuck Hong and Ah Hum. Chuck was the leader of the team, not only planning the schedule, but also leading the people into songs and teaching them to lead others into worship too. Ah Hum, the BEST sound personal I've ever worked with, very professional, very detailed, very precise.

学生们正在学习如何唱歌。大家都很用功。Singing lesson begins. Students learning how to sing, and feeling the sensation of 'head' tone. I even made them bark like a dog :)

键盘一课正在如火如荼的进行着。That's the keyboard class. Everyone is so eager to learn. Wow, what a sight!

午餐时间到了！老师们可以趁机休息，也可以讨论学生们的进展。这可是我们老师们最宝贵的时间之一。Lunch Time!!! We use this time to eat, rest, prepare for next session, discuss about the progress of students etc. This is precious time!

又到了一天最期盼的时刻了，那就是蛋挞时间！虽然我一直听到其他老师们谈起，说蛋挞多好吃，可是当我咬下它第一口时，哇！真的是好好吃哦！好！我们一定要每天都吃到它！I've heard them talking about egg tart egg tart, what is so nice about it? Well, it was only until I sink my teeth into one of this, then I understood how nice it was. Yes! It was decided that we'll find every opportunity to grab a few of these whenever we can! Egg tart...... here we come!!!!

26/5/08 (Day 2) 星期一，在温州的第二天

2008-06-13T17:13:00.005+08:00

今天早上起得很早，不到五点就天亮了，很自然就会把眼睛睁开。温州山上的景色非常的美，人也美，空气又好。我也精神了很多。下午开始彩排，第一次与其他的老师们合作，感觉非常幸福，好神奇哦！晚上跟学生们第一次接触，觉得大家都好好哦。很快的，美好的一天又过了。
Woke up very early this morning, although very tired, but cant really sleep well. Maybe it's because the sun rises earlier here, at about 5am :)
Breakfast greeted us this morning, very interesting, warm, different. The students bought for us KFC porridge, with fried dough (you tiao 油条), hash brown and coffee/tea. The team had a good time sharing what we think this trip should be like. We agreed to have daily devotion and prayer esp for this trip, so that we'll depend on the Lord for wisdom, strength and guidance. After breakfast, we went for a walk as the students get the instruments and equipments ready. As we arrived late last night, I didn't know that we were really situated in the midst of mountains. Very beautiful!!!
After that was rehearsal. First time singing/playing with the team, how do I feel? G-R-E-A-T!!! They were awesome. Each member knows what is their role, each one complimenting the other, very smooth, very in-tune with each other. Although I do not know most of the songs, it was still a wonderful and enriching experience.
Evening was when all the students started to stream in. We had an evening service, where each of us were introduced and was given some time to interact with our students. I was overwhelmed as the students were very welcoming and friendly. They made me feel so at home.
Well, that's the end of day 2 - Tiring day!

25/5/08 (Day 1) - Arrived in Wenzhou 温州，我们来了！

2008-06-13T17:05:00.008+08:00

双脚终于踏上了温州的土地，也与其他老师们会合了。看到学生们以笑脸欢迎老师们的时候，心中充满了期盼，好想在一瞬间就与大家打成一片。他们也把我们照顾得非常好，带我们去吃晚餐（一间非常附有格调的餐厅），还把我们送到家门口，我相信，虽然老师们都很累，可是我们都很很感动。好了，也已经是凌晨12点了，快睡吧，为明天冲刺吧！Arrived in Wenzhou (after a dramatic delay on the domestic flight fr Guangzhou to Wenzhou) at about 5-ish, met up with Chuck & the others, we finally made our way to dinner, then drive up the mountains for another hour where we stayed for the next few days. Reached our destination at around mid-night. What a tiring day! Although we still do not know each other very well yet, I had a good feeling that we'll just hit off very well.

中国 - 我心会永远在你那里

2008-06-11T17:50:00.003+08:00

直从我们从中国回来以后，我每几句话都会提起温州，广州。我想，我已经把我一部分的心留在那里了吧 :)
如果你是我在那里的学生，又刚好在看我的部落格，那我要跟你说：你们把我给害惨了:( 哈哈
我好想你们啊！
我第一次在中国侍奉，把我的所有都摆上，看到每一个学生都好用功，我的心也感到很安慰，很感动，知道我这一次没有白来。
有时跟Joncon (晓敏）MSN 时，心里一直挂念着大家，好希望我们又可以再碰面。
在那里认识了一群好伙伴，好朋友，好姐妹，好弟兄，一家人。
我还是那一句话：想念，开心，感恩，盼望，期待。
除了感谢神以外，还是要感谢他。

China photos

2008-06-08T23:55:00.008+08:00

Some photos from Wenzhou. If you wanna know more, ask me, I'll gladly tell you. In fact, I'm in the midst of writing everything down as a journal so that I can remember it by.

我们回来了！I'm Back :)

2008-06-06T08:38:00.014+08:00

Hey frenz,
I'm back from China! Wow! What an experience. I've totally enjoyed my stay there, meeting the Chinese folks, working with superb and excellent musicians from different background, different culture, different churches, but worshiping the same God, with the same passion and love.
I've gained a lot of beautiful memories and also made wonderful life-long relationships with some of the greatest people I know. I thank God for CY ('mostest betterest' piano player and a great friend), Jonathan ('more betterestest' Electric guitar player and the bestest heart), Sean (more 'mostest wonderfulest' son I can ever ask for), Steve (most 'betterestest' synth 'blower' and very cixiang), Chuck (thank you for all that you've done), Ah Hum (most professional sound personal I've ever worked with), Jeremy (more 'mostest funnest' person, you made me laugh!!!), Joncon and RongLei, BingRong, LiYong, Enoch, Meimei etc. God is good!!!
Will upload some photos later.
Thank you all for keeping us in prayer.
Cheers!

Tribal farewell for us by Reg 5 leaders

2008-05-23T15:24:00.005+08:00

The leaders in Reg 5 did a Tribal farewell for our family last night. It was very nice of them to do that. They've even presented us something very unique and special for us to remember them by. Very touched.
Here are photos taken last night.
Thank you guys :)

Short China missions trip

2008-05-22T16:35:00.004+08:00

I am so looking forward to this short missions trip to China.
I feel so privilege to be part of this international music group that goes into China to do music camp. I'm already expecting to learn from all the different ones and also to experience with the Chinese and worship alongside with them. How often do you get opportunities like that? I must give glory to God for allowing me to be there. So dear frenz, please remember me in your prayers that God will extend His grace and mercy towards His people and that what we set to achieve will be fruitful and may His name be glorified ultimately! Please also remember my family back home in prayer too as I know I will and am already missing them, esp my two beautiful and loving girls :'(
FYI, I'll be flying off this sunday morning, and only back on 5th June.
More updates after I come back :)
Cheers and God bless!

Laughing baby Ethan

2008-05-13T17:15:00.012+08:00

Was a bit stressed up and found this video which made me very happy. Have a look:

Fourteen million (and counting!) views later, Ethan's video has become one of the most watched videos on the site and recently won, by popular vote, the title of "Most Adorable" video in the 2007 YouTube Video Awards. His video also is being used by AIG in a nationwide advertising campaign and has appeared on many talk shows and news programs. You can watch it here: "http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXIfU-87TZo"
Here's another laughing baby commercial: "http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E25cGeY13M0&feature=related"

Huh? Another scam?

2008-05-02T16:56:00.005+08:00

Received this today:
Attention Dear Beneficiary,
We are very sorry for what happen to you since last year,
Now listen the reason this money is coming to you is that the government of this country has found that you was scammed since last year and they have arrested those that scammed people.
So since yesterday after we did not hear from you or receive your mail we have made arrangement with OCEANIC BANK BENIN REPUBLIC on how to transfer your money into your bank account at your country and note that your money which bank going to transfer is $800.000.00 and what you have to do right now is to contact the bank immediately so that the manager will transfer your money into your bank account and be informed that we have paid the bank for the open of new account fee for you. now listen the money that remain which you can pay to him is wire tranSfer fee which is only 150.00 to transfer your money directly into your bank account at your country ok.
Try to contact bank through this.
HON.MR.TONY HUBERT OCEANIC BANK MANAGER
MANAGER'S PHONE NUMBER..00229-93840292
FAX..00229-97438
EMAIL.... (oceanicbankbenin80@yahoo.de)(funny right? using yahoo as email, not the actual bank's email address)
please make sure that you follow bank manager's instruction and forward all your bank account detail where to transfer your money into and your current telephone number.
This is information the Bank Manager need from you.
YOUR COUNTRY............
YOUR FULL NAME........
YOUR ACCOUNT NUMBER..........
NAME OF YOUR BANK............
OCCUPATION...........
HOME ADDRESS.....
MOBIL PHONE NUMBER.....
OFFICE NUMBER.........
HOME NUMBER............
AGE....
SEX....
May God Be With you
from ups company Manager
Benin Republic
Dr.ADAMS JOHN

I emailed the actual bank and this was what they replied:
Dear Anne,
Thank you for visiting our website.
Please note that the mail you received is a SCAM and it is not from Oceanic Bank International Plc.
We advice you do not transfer funds and stop any form of communication with them
Best regards
Customer Care
Oceanic Bank International Plc

Lavette baking on her own!!!! Yummy!!

2008-04-30T08:34:00.006+08:00

She did everything all by herself :)

And the end product - for her grandfather's birthday, it was really yummy.
She baked another one for her connect group that same day.
Ummmm....... yum yum!

24th April - Happy Birthday to Monica

2008-04-25T14:33:00.003+08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIRL!
生日快乐，美人！

Andrew Johnston singing 'Pie Jesu'

2008-04-24T17:52:00.006+08:00

This boy is amazing. I wasn't expecting his voice to turn out like that, moved me to tears :'(
Can't imagine that he's been bullied since 6 years old. Have a listen.

Thought for the day

2008-04-23T10:10:00.003+08:00

John 10:11 "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." (NIV)
The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, deserted island. He prayed fervently for God to rescue him. Every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none came. Exhausted, he eventually built a small hut out of driftwood as a shelter and a place to store his few remaining possessions.
One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, the smoke rolling up to the sky. Everything was lost. Stunned with grief and anger, he cried, "God, how you could do this to me!" Early the next day, however, he was awakened by the sound of a ship approaching the island. It had come to rescue him! "How did you know I was here?" the weary man asked. "We saw your smoke signal," they replied.
God is always at work in our lives, even during the most stress-filled moments. When we entrust everything we are and everything we have to God, when we depend upon his truth instead of our own understanding and choose to walk in obedience, God promises to "make our paths straight" (Proverbs 3:6 NLT). No matter how deep the valley, we can count on God for direction. In Proverbs 3:6 , "make straight" means "to do right, to make smooth or to be evenly hammered". I love that truth! I can almost see my Father going before me, the hammer of truth in his hand, flattening every fear-filled obstacle, hammering down every mountain of doubt before me so that, when he has made a way, I can cross over. He straightens out the crooked paths, improving my behavior and causing me to do the "right" things.
Valleys are best faced with a total abandonment to the Shepherd of the valley. How many times have we danced with joy on the mountain top then moaned and complained in the valley? God is Lord of the mountain and the valley. I suspect that the most powerful life is lived in the valley -- not on the mountain top. Every valley is surrounded by mountains and every valley has a shepherd, a shepherd who will walk with us through the valley, a shepherd who will go before us, leading us out of the valley. When the psalmist wrote these words, he wrote my life message, "I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand." (Psalm 40:1-2 NIV)
Grace Chavis, a gifted author and speaker, stepped into my life and was a friend and mentor to me for many years. I will never forget the day I heard she had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. I picked up the phone to call this precious lady, expecting to offer words of comfort and faith. The person who answered the phone could not possibly be Grace! She sounded ecstatic! But it was Grace! I sputtered, "Grace, I must have misunderstood a message I received today saying you had been diagnosed with terminal cancer!" A laugh of pure joy rang in my ears as she said, "Oh, no! That's right! Now, I am here in my living room, dancing before Jesus and singing, "I'll be with you soon!" I have to tell you that her response blew me away and to this day still challenges my faith. Talk about trust!
No matter where you are today, your Father is there. No matter how deep or long the valley, he is with you, waiting for you to surrender all. Give him your valley, knowing that he will surely lead you out. God has ordained that valley as an altar of sacrifice, an opportunity for him to work through your broken heart and life. Keep your glance on the valley and your gaze on the Shepherd. Begin praising him for your deliverance. It will surely come.
Let's Pray
Father God, my Shepherd. I feel like a lost sheep, a broken lamb. I am desperate for You. I confess that I don't always understand how You work, and tend to doubt You in those times. But I want to trust You as a sheep trusts its shepherd. By faith, I come to You, placing my life in Your hands in total surrender. Thank You for loving me just as I am. In Jesus' name, Amen

Great lunch - thank you to the Tan family

2008-04-22T18:20:00.003+08:00

This was our first 'farewell' meal from reg 5/6 at Great Shanghai in Grand Copthorne. We had a wonderful time with the Tan family. They have been a tremendous blessings to this church and our lives. May God continue to bless them richly as they walk closer with the Lord!

Thought for the day

2008-04-09T09:34:00.002+08:00

Hebrews 11:6 (ICB) "Without faith no one can please God. Anyone who comes to God must believe that He is real and that He rewards those who truly want to find him."
Billy Graham once said, "Most of us do not understand nuclear fission, but we accept it. I don't understand television, but I accept it. I don't understand radio, but every week my voice goes out around the world, and I accept it. Why is it so easy to accept all these man-made miracles and so difficult to accept the miracles of the Bible?"
Faith can be defined as "confidence or trust". We all have faith. We walk into a room and flip a switch, believing in faith that light will result. We sit in a chair, confident it will support us. We go to a doctor who is a total stranger. He gives us a prescription that we can't read, which we take to a pharmacist we don't know. We are given a bottle of mysterious pills and we gobble them down - all in faith!
Our problem is not a lack of faith. Our problem is where we place our faith. Faith is more than just believing. It is acting on that belief. The story is told of a woman who lived in a remote valley in Wales . When electricity came to the rural area, one of the first customers was a young woman with a large family. However, the electric company soon noticed that the woman was using a very small amount of electricity each month and suspecting a problem with the installed equipment, they sent a repairman to check the meter. After a close inspection, the worker found the equipment was installed properly. Confused, the repairman knocked on the front door to give the woman his report. "We've inspected the meter which seems to be working properly. The only thing I can figure out is that you are not using the power that is available to you. Don't you use any electricity?" the repairman asked. "Oh yes" she said. "We turn it on every night to see how to light our oil lamps and then we switch it off again."
We often approach God's power in the same way, knowing it exists but failing to appropriate that power. Instead, we work diligently in our own strength until that strength is gone and we are left feeling empty and without purpose. That is not God's plan.
Hebrews 11:1 What is faith? It is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen. It is the evidence of things we cannot yet see. (NLT)
We are not saved by faith plus works. We are saved by faith that leads to good works. We attempt to build a life on the flawed premise that if we do enough good works, God will be pleased. However, those works are useless and count for nothing unless the heart motivation behind them is one of faith. Faith is the altar of powerful living because faith pleases God. I often picture my Father watching with delight as I step into the unknown, walk straight through my fear and trust Him to be there. I truly believe God loves big dreamers, children who take Him at His Word and walk by faith...not by sight. Go ahead! Take that first step of faith today!
Let's Pray: Father God, I pray that my heart and mind would be childlike in the matters of faith. I choose today to accept Your plan without understanding that plan. I choose to believe You and Your Truth, even though that truth is hard to believe. I choose to keep my gaze on You and my glance on circumstances. I want to be a woman of faith, Lord. I want to please you by stepping out in faith. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Fur Elise with a twist

2008-04-05T19:19:00.003+08:00

This is really interesting. 'Fur Elise' in a kind of Jazzy and Rag feel.
Have a listen!

Another scam - wow! I so fortunate lor, always meet this kind of Money offer :)

2008-04-04T08:43:00.000+08:00

Received this in my eamil:
IMF-World Bank Collaboration

Attention
We wish to inform you that your overdue payment has be scheduled to pay to you through certified ATM Card which you will be only required to proceed to any ATM Cash Point to withdraw $10,000 per day till your complete payment fund of $1.2M USD are completed.
This development was as result of new payment policy revolution of 2007 carry out by the World Financial Body in collaboration with World Bank Audit unit and Policy maker unit under world bank new year payment constitution.
This effort is to help the international monetary fund restrict and monitor every international transaction to avoid money laundering activities and will help us to fight against fraudulent activities from scam experts. Furthermore you are advice to reconfirm you billing address include your full name and direct contact telephone number to the Bank of Afirca cotonou Benin Republic for the issuance certified ATM Credit Card, the contact information is as follows:

BANK OF AFRICA, COTONOU
REPUBLIC OF BENIN.
Email: atmdevelopmentoffice0008@yahoo.fr
CONTACT PERSON:Rolland Scoth.

NB note that you can only withdraw just $10,000.00 per day till your fund is completed.Please do not reply to this E-mail contact the Bank immediately with the necessary information required from you so that they commence on proceeding.

Yours sincerely,
MR.JIM PETER
中关村科技园区海淀园招收56位博士后
*用搜狗拼音写邮件，体验更流畅的中文输入>>

The two most beautiful girls I've ever known!!!!

2008-03-28T15:20:00.001+08:00

My pride and joy!!!
Thank God for blessing me with the two of them :)

Excerpt from Girlfriends in God

2008-03-28T09:33:00.001+08:00

The LORD says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. Psalm 32:8 (NLT)
When my daughter, Danna, was a toddler, she and her daddy had a favorite game. Dan would place her in some high spot then stand back, hold up his arms saying, "Jump to Daddy!" I hated this game but Danna loved it. She would always jump into his arms, laughing and giggling! One day, however, Dan put Danna in a spot that for some reason seemed just a little too high for Danna. She did what I do when I get scared. She closed her eyes. When her dad said, "Jump!" she said, "I can't! 'Cause I can't see you, Daddy!" Dan said, "It doesn't matter, baby. I can see you!" With a smile on her scrunched up face my daughter bailed off into the strong arms of her Father, secure in the knowledge that he would catch her just as he always had.
The apostle Paul understood and lived by the truth that God is constantly at work in and around us, monitoring every circumstance. Paul writes in Philippians 4:10, "I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it." This verse contains a message that is easy to miss - the truth that God is always at work around us. Paul's circumstances did not show that God was working, but Paul knew! He was secure in the belief that help was on the way so he stood firm and began watching for God to show up!
He examined every circumstance, understanding that it had already passed through His Father's hands with His permission! And God came through! To find real security and contentment we must learn to search for the handprints of God in the every day circumstances of life.
Life is not a series of accidents but a series of divine appointments made by our heavenly Father, designed to prove that He loves us and orchestrated to illustrate His provision for us. That interruption we complain about or that intrusion we resent may well be a window of opportunity sent by Him! God is our provider. The word "provider" comes from two Latin words, "pro" which means "before" and "video" which means, "to see". In other words, God will take care of it beforehand. God caused the church at Philippi to become concerned about Paul's needs and it came at the time when Paul needed their love the most! He always comes when we need Him the most! It is a picture of the Good Shepherd meeting every need of every sheep.
John 10:4 After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they recognize his voice. (NLT)
The Shepherd is always ahead of his sheep - out in front which means that any attack upon the sheep has to go through him. What peace and security we can have knowing that God has gone before us through every valley, across each mountain of life. He knows what tomorrow holds and will give us everything we need to face it. When we begin to understand and walk in the truth that God monitors every circumstance, we will also understand and walk in contentment.
You may find yourself in a frightening place filled with darkness and doubt. Your fragile heart may be wondering if God knows where you are. Let me assure you my friend - He does. Even if you cannot see Him He can see you. And when it comes right down to it, I really prefer that God be able to see me rather than insisting that I be able to see Him! We think that because we cannot see the hand of God or sense His presence, it means that He is not working. Nothing could be further from the truth. God is always at work in our lives. Now that is real security and the cornerstone of a life of contentment.

Now it's Your Turn
By faith, accept the truth that God is always at work in your life and thank Him for His steadfast provision. Look back over the last few days, weeks and months of your life. Now praise Him for the things He has done.
Identify the people or things that you tend to think of and rely upon as sources of security and contentment in your life.
Read Proverbs 3:5-6. What are the steps listed in this passage that -- when taken -- will produce contentment?
What hedges of protection can you put in place today that will prepare you to face tomorrow with security and contentment?

This kid is not bad!!!

2008-03-26T16:38:00.000+08:00

He's cute and can bring up the atmosphere with the audience too. Entertaining!

5 year old blind talent

2008-03-19T09:08:00.000+08:00

I am sure you will be impressed after watching this show! It is very touching when this little 5-years old blind sung a song that really represented her plight.
It is another sign that God has always been fair and has endowed us with different abilities.

Cheerobics 2007 - Cheerobics 2008 post coming soon

2008-03-18T22:18:00.005+08:00

This was last year's Cheerobics where Lavvy's school won Champion again!
But of course, 2008 Cheerobics, St Hilda's won yet again, making them the defending Champion for the last 5 years (I think)!

This was their winning performance

Some great songs!

2008-03-16T02:03:00.001+08:00

WOW! I still cant get over this wonderful Hillsong Conference Opening arrangement!

2008-02-21T18:21:00.001+08:00

“Yet I hold this against you; You have forsaken your first love” (Revelation 2:4 NIV).

2008-02-21T17:25:00.002+08:00

If you’re married, what do you do when you’ve lost that lovin’ feelin’? Maybe you truly adored your husband in the beginning, but now you can’t remember why. Maybe you honestly admired his finer qualities, but now you can’t remember what they were. Maybe you appreciated his wonderful attributes, but now take them for granted. What do you do now?
Here’s a statistic you might find interesting. According to an analysis of the National Survey of Families and Household, 86 percent of unhappily married people who stick it out find that, five years later, their marriages are happier. In fact, nearly 60 percent of those who rated their marriage as unhappy in the late 1980’s, and who stayed married, rated their same marriage “very happy” or “quite happy” when re-interviewed five years later ( Linda J. Waite and Maggie Gallagher, The Case for Marriage (New York: Doubleday, 2000) 148). In comparison, those who divorced and remarried divorced again at a rate of 60 percent (Judith Wallerstein and Julia A. Lewis, and Sandra Blakeslee, The Unexpected Legacy of Divorce, Hyperion, 2000) p295).
So, starting over may very well be the answer! As long as it’s with the same man.
In the book of Revelation in the Bible, God had this to say to the church at Ephesus. “Yet I hold this against you; You have forsaken your first love” (Revelation 2:4). Ephesus was one of the most loving churches in the New Testament and yet, somewhere along the way, they lost that initial thrill of knowing Christ. Their love for each other and for God had grown cold.
As I read God’s lament, I whispered a prayer. “Oh Lord, how many of us women have forgotten our first love. We’ve forgotten the thrill we felt when we first met our husbands: the spine tingling chills when he walked into a room, the heart skipping flutter when he called on the phone, the tender wooing when we opened a letter penned by his hand. Somewhere between taking out the garbage, paying the bills, running carpool, mowing the lawn, disciplining the kids, folding the laundry…somewhere among the mundane routine of life, we’ve lost the romance”.
How do we get it back? God gave the church two simple steps for the Bride of Christ to renew her passion for her Beloved, and I believe we can apply the same principles to renewing our passion for the man of our dreams.
Remember and Return
Remember what drew you to your husband in the first place? Remember how you tried to please him, capture his heart, and win his affection? That may have been fifty pounds and a full head of hair ago, but that young man who longed to be adored, admired, and appreciated still lives within his heart. He wants to know if he still “has what it takes.” Let him know that he does.
Everyone loves a love story. Tell your children the story of how you first met and fell in love. Remember special days such as your first date, your first kiss, or the day when you first realized he was the man you wanted to marry. On your anniversary, listen to a tape or watch a video of your wedding. Celebrate not only your wedding anniversary but also the day he asked you to marry him.
Now it’s Your Turn
If you have kids, tell them the story of how you met and fell in love with your husband at the dinner table tonight.
If you aren’t married, tell someone how you met Jesus Christ and gave your life to Him.
If you are married, write down what drew you to your husband initially.
If you are not married, write down what you long for in the man of your dreams.

Back from Australia

2008-02-20T10:41:00.004+08:00

I was in Sydney for about 10 days with Timothy for the Entech 2008 exhibition. Wow!!!! What an experience! Thank God that He saw us through!!! Timothy had to work through the night for many nights in his three weeks stay. He only came back like 5 or 6am in the morning, slept for 2 hours and then back to work :(
I had to work non-stop also, building the truss for the exhibition stand, setting the stand up, run here and there like an event construction worker :P .... very tiring!
During the exhibition days, we had to walk half an hour, up slope from hotel to exhibition centre, stand from 9am to 6pm, then back to hotel, walking another half an hour with really tired feet back to the hotel. Sometimes it gets so tiring that we even skipped dinner.... no appetite already! After the exhibition, it's tear down time!!! The same process all over again.
I'm sure you would understand how much we L-O-N-G to come home to Singapore and to our children!!! One thing good is that the whether was really cool, sometimes cold there. Not forgetting the beef is delicious too :P
But we miss local food cos it's always bread bread bread and more bread, if not meat meat and more meat!!! Haha
Even coming home was a small little adventure. Our flight was due to depart at 5pm Australia time but was delayed till 8pm. That means we stayed at the airport from 2.30pm till 8pm just to catch the flight back home. We ended up arriving on Sunday early morning instead of Saturday night. PHEW.... :)

14 years old Charice Pempengco

2008-01-28T22:50:00.000+08:00

Her voice is not too bad. Great stage presence also. Just like what the interviewer said, she made the stage looks small. Watch for her changing of the mics from right to left hand, in mid air - cool! Have a listen:

And the interview session:

Amazing Grace - Pentatonic!

2008-01-26T10:52:00.000+08:00

Our Pride and Joy!

2008-01-25T08:36:00.000+08:00

Yesterday was a day filled with emotional roller coaster rides. First it was excitement in the morning, then great anticipation, then anxiety kicked in before joy came through.
What do I mean by that? Well, Lyn collected her 'O' levels result yesterday.
I'm so glad we were there all the way to support her.
You see, Lyn had tried her very best last year with her studies when she finally decided to really buck up and do well for 'O's. She was not exactly up to par from sec 1 to 3 but we believed in her that she will mature and will start to plan for her future. She did! When she started to work hard, we cheered her on knowing that that's the best thing we can do and should do. She didn't disappoint us!
You see, before we left for school, I felt that we needed to pray and commit everything to God. No matter what the results were, God is in control - that was what I prayed. I wanted her to put her trust in God and learn to accept whatever results she may get. Deep in my heart I knew she'll do well but if she didn't, I didn't want to put pressure on her.
When we reached school, the anxiety is really unbelievable. All the girls were excited, seeing many of their friends' names listed on the screen - those who scored xx amount of As, those who had a high aggregate difference between prelim and 'O's etc etc. Well, it came time for the rest to collect their results and we were literally standing on our toes with anticipation. She called me on my mobile to tell me that she scored better than expected! Hallelujah!!!! Praise the Lord. I'll never forget that scene when she came running to us, with tears in her eyes and a wide grin on her face and gave both of us a big hug. I cried, so proud of her. Tim was controlling his tears but I could see the redness and tears welling up in his eyes.
In fact, she did better than many of her classmates who always topped her! I believe her hard work paid off, but most importantly, God has be glorified in all this!!!!
Thank you Jesus for seeing us through!
AMEN!

"Branches were broken off that I could be grafted in" (Romans 11:19 NIV).

2008-01-25T08:31:00.000+08:00

One day when Julianna was twelve years old, she rushed out her front door on her way to dance class. She slammed the door behind her as she hurried to catch her ride, but the door closed before all of her fingers followed her body across the threshold. Now you have probably slammed your fingers in a door a time or two, and can remember wincing a bit. But Julianna never does anything half-way. She jerked to a sudden halt, spun around quickly, and saw her appendages trapped in the closed door. When she opened the door to remove her hand, she was horrified to discover that not all of it was there. She had amputated the upper third of her second right finger.
"Help! Somebody help me! I've just cut off my finger!"
Fortunately, the woman picking her up for dance class was a nurse. She rushed to the screaming ballerina. "Julianna, where's your mom?" she asked.
"She's not here," Julianna answered between sobs. "Nobody's here but Daniel."
"Quick," the neighbor instructed, "Let's put some pressure on that nub. Daniel, come help us!" she yelled.
Daniel, Julianna's fifteen-year-old brother, ran down the stairs at the cry for help.
"Julianna's just cut her finger off. You have to find it. We've got to put it in ice and take her to the hospital right away."
A pale faced Daniel went to the scene of the accident. As he hung his head, he saw the finger lying at his feet. Trying not to lose his breakfast, Daniel picked up his sister's digit in a towel and handed it over to the nurse.

Well, the good news is that they got to the hospital in time. The skilled doctor put Humpty-Dumpty back together again and told them to pray that the finger would reattach.
"We'll keep our fingers crossed," he said with a grin as he walked out of the treatment room.
A few days later Julianna unwrapped the bandages, afraid of what she might find underneath. What she saw was not a pretty sight. Instead of a finger, she saw a black mushroom-like thimble sitting atop her nub.
"Doctor, we took the bandage off today. It's black and crusty and looks like a mushroom cap," her mom reported. "It looks dead."
"That's fine," he reassured her. "Don't worry. If nature is working properly, and it sounds like it is, the top will turn black, but underneath, nerves and blood vessels are reattaching. Underneath the thimble, a new finger is forming. She needs the old part in order for the new part to form underneath. In about three weeks, we'll know if the procedure worked. Just keep it wrapped and clean."
A few weeks after the accident, Julianna came to spend the night with us while she was attending a dance camp in my hometown. I had the pleasure of her company and the displeasure of changing her bandage. Her description was accurate.
Four weeks after Julianna had returned home, she wrote me a thank you note for having her in our home. She ended by saying, "P.S. Guess what? My crusty thimble fell off and I have a new finger!"

Now don't ask me how this happened. It is a mystery to me. But scripture tells of another mystery that is just as amazing. Another grafting process that is just as miraculous. God demonstrated His love toward us, in that while we were still sinners (cut off, dead, rotten to the core), Christ died for us and made it possible for us to be grafted onto the living root -- Jesus Himself (Romans 5:8, Romans 11:17). At the very moment we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, we receive a new living spirit to replace our old dead spirit. God performs a spiritual makeover in the twinkling of an eye - in the time it takes for us to say, "I believe."
Now that's a miracle.

O Holy Night - David Phelps

2008-01-22T12:41:00.000+08:00

I've never heard this song sung this way. Every word is interpreted as he sings along. It's no JUST a song anymore. It's really really GOOD!!! hair stand, eyes wet, heart in awesome wonder. Never thought of exactly how amazing Jesus' birth means to us! All knees bow and all tongues confess that CHRIST IS LORD!

Thank you Joel for introducing it to me!

3 year old Akim

2008-01-17T23:52:00.001+08:00

This boy is so amazing. I like the part when the orchestra supported him at the end (for his last song). It's a bit long but very interesting - if you like music!

Amazing 8 year old child prodigy

2008-01-17T23:37:00.000+08:00

Sand Fantasy

2008-01-17T11:36:00.000+08:00

This artist is really good. You can view more of her work from www.sandfantasy.com

Nice Animation!

2008-01-16T16:38:00.000+08:00

From Girlfriends in God:

2008-01-16T16:12:00.000+08:00

"Pray continually" (1 Thessalonians 5:17 )

Friend to Friend
Over the past few years, my spiritual life has changed dramatically. I've witnessed the LORD move in amazing ways, and have felt His hand guide me like never before. What's the big secret? Why the big change? Simple: prayer. There is unexplainable power in prayer.
No, prayer isn't new to me. I've prayed ever since I was a child. But even though I love God, I've often struggled to remain focused during my quiet time...or even to carve out a daily quiet time, for that matter. My creative mind has a strong tendency to wander. So a few years back, I began keeping a prayer journal...and my faith has really grown as a result.
My journal isn't fancy or expensive, just a notebook that can be picked up anywhere, but it has been a power tool for God's movement in and through my life. By keeping my heart focused in prayer, my journal has fanned the flame of my prayers, and has fueled the fire in my soul to connect with our active and living God who longs to be the center of our attention.
It's not rocket science, and there aren't any special tricks. A prayer journal can be an effective tool for spiritual growth, but the power is in the praying! How do I put my power tool to work? I start by writing the date. Then I jot down who and what I want to pray about. I also love to write out scripture passages that have spoken to my heart. Then I go to my Father...focused and fearless. God is the source of all power, and prayer is essential to experiencing His power in our lives.
Martin Luther said, "As it is the business of tailors to make clothes, and of cobblers to mend shoes, so it is the business of Christians to pray." Prayer moves the hand of God, yet, statistically; most Christians spend less than 5 minutes a day in prayer. That's just crazy! Why would we expect God to show His power in our lives if we don't give Him more time than we spend brushing our teeth each day?
Are you experiencing the power of God in your life? He wants you to come to Him in prayer: when you are hurting, when you are angry, when you need direction, when you need answers, when you need hope, when you need healing. He wants you to come to Him for forgiveness, courage, strength, confidence, and perspective. Come with praise, adoration, humility, honor, and worship.
So -- grab a journal and focus your heart and thoughts on God...or, if that idea yucks you out, banish the thought. What matters is that you pray. He just wants you to come.
A GIG PLEDGE: Let's commit together to spend more time on our knees in 2008! Raise your right hand and say out loud: "Lord, it is my sincere intention to seek you more fervently in 2008." God assures us, that when we seek Him, we will find Him! As Girlfriends in God, we are growing rapidly in numbers. All around the globe, close to 50,000 women come together in devotion to seek God's face. As we grow in width, may we, as GiGs, also grow in depth. I pray that 2008 will lead us, collectively and individually, deeper and wider into the life changing presence of God.
Let's Pray
Holy Father, Thank You for allowing me to come to You in prayer. I humbly bow before Your throne of grace and ask that You would forgive me for all of the times I have failed to come. I need You more than I know. Please help me experience the fullness of Your life-changing presence in a fresh and powerful way this year. For Your glory and In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Now it's Your Turn
Consider keeping a prayer journal! Grab a pen and a notebook and get started! If you don't know where to start, use this as a template to begin:
Begin reading the Psalms during your quiet time. Journal what you learn and write down the verses that stir your heart. (There are 150 of them and if you meditate on one or two each day, you could be kept busy for a few months!)

More from the Girlfriends
One morning, as I was reading in the Psalms, I came across a great scripture prayer. It is Psalm 143:8: "Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul." As I read it over and over, a song came to my heart.
Gwen Smith is a worship artist, songwriter, speaker, and author. Visit her website at: www.GwenSmith.net, or stop by her e-store to grab a few of her worship CDs.
"http://www.girlfriendsingod.com"

New Super Mario Bros with a twist

2008-01-16T10:36:00.000+08:00

He is our HEALER!

2008-01-06T22:45:00.000+08:00

Latest song in VFC: Powerful!

Happy New Year

2008-01-01T11:03:00.000+08:00

Wishing all my friends a-z New Year: Amazing, Blessed, Colourful, Dynamite, Exceptional, Fantastic, Glorious, Hilarious, Incredible, Joyful, Kinetic, Lovely, Magnificent, Noble, Outstanding, Perfect, Quirky, Radiant, Surpassing, Tremendous, Unique, Valuable, Wonderful, Xtraordinary, Youthful, Zero-cool

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2007-12-28T17:21:00.000+08:00

Here's wishing everyone a blessed 2008 that is fun, exciting, fruitful, blessed, full of testimonies for God and most importantly, a year that we grow deeper in love and walk closer spiritually in Him!

The last few weeks

2007-12-17T17:27:00.000+08:00

It's been a really roller-coaster ride for the last few weeks!
I was so occupied with the Popular outreach that our church was invited to do, also spend a weekend with family and friends in Malacca, prepare for office closure for the Christmas holiday and New Year - BTW, my office closes from 21st Dec 2007 to 6th Jan 2008! Yea, long holiday!
Looking forward for the long holiday where I can spend good quality time doing some planning and also with family members.
Well, if I'm not able to update more post this year, then
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2008!

Cute prayer for mac-n-cheese

2007-12-17T17:18:00.001+08:00

Lynette introduced me to this video - very well done mime!

2007-11-28T14:07:00.000+08:00

VFC - 30th Anniversary Banquet

2007-11-16T16:44:00.000+08:00

The celebration was very memorable. Getting to celebrate with close friends, even serving different ones, and not forgetting meeting some old friends! It was great! Wish there were more but I think if we had to wait for another 30 years, I old liao lor! Ha ha!
Anyways, here are some of the photos (will update more later):

The Edge Annoucement with LYNETTE in it!!!!

2007-11-15T16:02:00.000+08:00

Targeted as a victim of the HK lucky draw scam

2007-11-14T10:23:00.000+08:00

It all started with a friendly phone call asking me to take part in a simple survey. Then a few days later, I was told that I won the 3rd prize of S$150,000 cash!! But WAIT! Don't be too happy for me, cos all this is a SCAM!

This is how it happened:
First, I attended to their survey. Then in order to submit the survey, they needed my full name, which sounded reasonable. To be honest, I can't even remember what company she mentioned she was from. Anyway, to thank me for my participation, she gave me a lucky draw number.
A few days later,I was invited to an event hosted in JB. Obviously I wouldn't go cos I was still working then. Strangely, on the day of the event, I was told that I was one of their lucky draw winners, and was asked to come to JB to collect my prize. I thought it might be some small items, so I was not willing to travel all the way down. She said someone will contact me again on how to have my prize delivered to me. OK, so far, that sounded genuine and convincing.
The next few days were fun, cos she sounded really genuine in wanting to give me my prize. First, she introduced herself as Cai Ya Juan, working in Hong Kong but her mainland Chinese accent gave her away. Her phone number was withheld so I don't know where she was calling from. The background seems a bit noisy, as if the company was very crowded. She also gave me her company phone number: 0218 52 3078 3278. She was very friendly,a lot of chit chatting, like your old friend, it puts you off your guard. She even gave me her company website to check out their company - hkxina.com. It looked really impressive.
Now comes the question mark part. In order to claim my money, I had to pay up an insurance or guarantee of some sort, to their selected board to ensure that I will pay Hong Kong government their levy. The cost: $5800. After which, within one hour, I will 'see' my prize money in the bank!

Ok, now the fun part.
1. I checked out their website using 'whois registrar' and found out that it was registered on 7th Oct 2007! Now if the company is more than 20 years old, and being so established, why set up website only one month ago?
2. Although they even gave me a login number and password to see my name on the winning list, why wasn't there a newspaper announcement? I asked her and she said it'll not be published in the HK newspaper cos the draw was in Malaysia. Then she couldn't answer me why Malaysia and Singapore papers were not published too.
3. When I was asked to pay the $5800, I asked for a black and white proof that I will receive the money in one hour's time. She went back to the beginning and go through with me all over the procedure, which sounded very fluent - too fluent like as if she had been handling a lot of lucky draws. Wow, the company so big hor? Always got lucky draws :P Anyways, a big, established company can't even provide me a faxed form of black and white!
4. Whenever along the conversation when I raise some doubt, there'll always be another caller calling in and I can somehow 'hear' their conversation and the topic is always what I've just asked! And the lady will always repeat what the other party says, as if to let me know what they were talking about!
5. The moment she sensed that I'm not going to fall for their trick, her tone literally changed! Ha ha, but I still pretended to not know about the trick and played along with her. I doubt she'll call back.

Now, if you received any calls like that, DON'T BELIEVE EVERY WORD THE OTHER PARTY SAYS!!!! Check out the internet, MANY MANY fell for this scam. A teacher paid $61,000 and still has not seen her cash prize yet! Browse through the internet and you can find some interesting ways others are dealing with this scam.
But if you did give away your particulars, here are some steps you need to do:
1. File a police report, to safe guard yourself. Give the police all the details so that they can investigate.
2. If you did disclose your bank account, call your bank to lock your account. You can still use it personally but they will not entertain anyone (including yourself)over the phone or internet. You'll need to close the bank account and open a new one.
Just be careful my friends!

Our Refuge And Strength

2007-11-08T12:29:00.000+08:00

READ: Isaiah 31

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the Lord our God. —Psalm 20:7

In August 2004, Hurricane Charley brought fierce destruction to areas of Florida. During the storm, 25-year-old Danny Williams went outside to seek protection in one of his favorite places, a shed under the protective branches of a banyan tree. But the tree fell on the shed and killed Williams. Sometimes, the places we look to for security can be the most dangerous.
The prophet Isaiah warned Judah’s King Hezekiah of this truth. Hezekiah was a good king, but he repeated the sin of his father Ahaz by seeking security in an alliance with an alien power (2 Kings 16:7; Isa. 36:6). Instead, he should have been encouraging his people to trust in the Lord.
By seeking help from Egypt, Hezekiah showed that he had failed to learn from history. Egypt had been anything but an ally to Israel. Hezekiah had also forgotten Scripture. Amassing horses for cavalry units was against the divine constitution for the king (Deut. 17:16).
Ultimately, Hezekiah did seek help from the Lord (Isa. 37:1-6,14-20). And God miraculously annihilated the invading Assyrians (vv.36-38).
Judah made the mistake of valuing the strength of Egypt over the living God. May our trust always be in the name of the Lord our God (Ps. 20:7).
—Marvin Williams

Trust in God and you will know
He can vanquish any foe;
Simply trust Him day by day,
He will be your strength and stay. —D. De Haan

Amazing Voice for a Little Girl

2007-11-08T12:20:00.000+08:00

What an amazing voice from a 6 years old girl - Connie Talbot from Britain's Got Talent! Enjoy :)

Go ahead, play the game!

2007-10-29T11:55:00.000+08:00

Sudoku

Play this fantastic puzzle game that is taking the world by storm!!

Play this free game now!!

Mondayblues? Use Psalms 23

2007-10-29T09:21:00.000+08:00

This little girl is so cute! Shirley (or surely) will make your Monday blues go away!

One of my favourite song, not because it's old, but because of the words describing His amazing grace!!!!

2007-10-24T14:03:00.000+08:00

Now still in office :(

2007-10-23T19:30:00.000+08:00

It's Tuesday night, 7-ish already but still stuck in office :(
Tim's going to Philippines and then Hong Kong tmr morning, that's why so much work to do.
Anyways, here's something to ponder and meditate on:

Deuteronomy 28:1
And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: