Now I have another Option at park apartment after viewing Kristine's home about 2 Saturdays ago. I am not sure if that is a good option. 245sq-metres at USD 3,800 and above. Great space and 4bedroom. Gosh! I love the study room & all the exclusivity with the master bedroom and mini walk-in closet. Most of all....the kitchen is amazing! The dry and wet kitchen concept with tons of storage. Even a store area for keeping all the electrical appliances and all. Even a drying area almost like a balcony that is all mine! I could surely use all that space. But really, the price is steep considering what we are prepared to pay. One key minus - no amenities around. Closest supermarket is Jenny Lou which is at Lido, about 10mins walk. Seemed alright but when it comes to cold harsh winter, walking out for 10mins unsheltered & un-chauffeured is not child's play....i don't recommend that!
We've gotten Rosemary to help us source for a 3+1 in phase 3 central park vicinity. Keeping my fingers crossed and praying hard that I can get some really positive news. We viewed a couple of units and really 26-02 and 20-02 at Tower 13 are my favourites. Especially 26-02! Be with me in prayer for 26-02 :
1. Rental will be only at USD2,800 (max)
2. Owner is willing to wait for us until mid Feb to shift in and kickstart the tenancy contract
3. He will agree with us installing the hot bath unit in both washrooms
4. He will accede to all our requests in asking for more appliances and furnishing
We can't move out of my current unit until Feb for 2 reasons. My parents warned me against shifting now because i am pregnant. They freaked out BIG time when I tried to hint to them that that was our intent...so i rather not risk incurring their wrath, especially if my mother in law comes to know of it - dead meat. Anyhow, second reason is because my current tenancy agreement ends in Dec anyhow. So the earliest given all else...it will be in mid Feb before we could move physically. God has been very faithful in all our asking in prayers so I firmly trust that He will "reserve" 26-02 at tower 13 just for us!
I believe the Lord will work miracle!
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Mediocrity or Excellence
I have been thinking a lot about this since I was preparing my training materials for CRM SFM Training with one of my china dealers next week in Shanghai.
What amazes me was how people actually spent enormous amount of effort to just NOT have that spirit of excellence. Not in a subsciously manner but extremely aware of the loopholes and areas of deficiency, they choose to be slipshod and almost oblivious to them in a very conscious manner.
It was almost like they had to delibrately avoid work, responsibility and ownership because to have an excellent spirit meant the contrary of course. Taking ownership, owning up to areas of responsibilities, being accountable and working hardly in essence. They choose to focus on the easy sloppy way of "that is how things have always been anyway so why rock the boat?!" Their "comfortable" boat most likely. The time and effort that has gone to do all that could have been better used to just get it done right & doing it well. Nonetheless, it is unarguable that it is easier typically to go with the flow. Truly, anything that is good is found upstream and not downstream. Interestingly, personal growth ( and thus challenge) takes place down under in the valley not at the mountain top. It is under the valley where you meet these "amazing people" that challenges your values, beliefs, standards and character.
I can be like them and be accepted as part of the team (yucks!) or I can choose to be absolutely different, be a sore thumb (irritate people very much at the beginning) and if I perserve...they will appreciate me (prayerfully and hopefully) at the end. Well I know the last part is just so true much as right now, I definitely don't feel appreciated but it doesn't matter. It is against my principle and most of all nature to be slipshod, sloppy and just average. I realise that the price to pay to have the spirit of excellence is popularity and human acceptance. Both of which are nice to have but it is not must have. People appreciate me for who I am not for what I can do "with" them. At least that is what I am telling myself now.
Yes, I will continue to modify my training slides until they are PERFECT! I am believing God for a wonderful training session next week in Shanghai and Kunshan with my audience of 60. Sales reps, sales managers, marketing folks and dealer management. It will be good. My first and last training since I'd be going on maternity leave in mid Dec.
Proverbs 22:29
Do you see a man who excels in his work?
He will stand before kings;
He will not stand before unknown man
I want to stand before my greatest King, Jesus and be proud to say...I have always given my BEST.
What amazes me was how people actually spent enormous amount of effort to just NOT have that spirit of excellence. Not in a subsciously manner but extremely aware of the loopholes and areas of deficiency, they choose to be slipshod and almost oblivious to them in a very conscious manner.
It was almost like they had to delibrately avoid work, responsibility and ownership because to have an excellent spirit meant the contrary of course. Taking ownership, owning up to areas of responsibilities, being accountable and working hardly in essence. They choose to focus on the easy sloppy way of "that is how things have always been anyway so why rock the boat?!" Their "comfortable" boat most likely. The time and effort that has gone to do all that could have been better used to just get it done right & doing it well. Nonetheless, it is unarguable that it is easier typically to go with the flow. Truly, anything that is good is found upstream and not downstream. Interestingly, personal growth ( and thus challenge) takes place down under in the valley not at the mountain top. It is under the valley where you meet these "amazing people" that challenges your values, beliefs, standards and character.
I can be like them and be accepted as part of the team (yucks!) or I can choose to be absolutely different, be a sore thumb (irritate people very much at the beginning) and if I perserve...they will appreciate me (prayerfully and hopefully) at the end. Well I know the last part is just so true much as right now, I definitely don't feel appreciated but it doesn't matter. It is against my principle and most of all nature to be slipshod, sloppy and just average. I realise that the price to pay to have the spirit of excellence is popularity and human acceptance. Both of which are nice to have but it is not must have. People appreciate me for who I am not for what I can do "with" them. At least that is what I am telling myself now.
Yes, I will continue to modify my training slides until they are PERFECT! I am believing God for a wonderful training session next week in Shanghai and Kunshan with my audience of 60. Sales reps, sales managers, marketing folks and dealer management. It will be good. My first and last training since I'd be going on maternity leave in mid Dec.
Proverbs 22:29
Do you see a man who excels in his work?
He will stand before kings;
He will not stand before unknown man
I want to stand before my greatest King, Jesus and be proud to say...I have always given my BEST.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
New apartment?
175 square-metre.
That is what my current unit is at Tower 9 #37-05, Phase 2 Central Park in downtown Beijing CBD. The lease expires 30 Apr 08.
Therefore we have about 8months to decide if we need a new apartment with Nadine's arrival and my mom staying with us come March 08. My mom is officially retiring (FINALLY!!!) in Dec with Nadine's arrival into this wonderful world. Good for my mom, she is really tired and she has been working so hard all her life. I am so thankful that we are finally able to keep her from working and give her a new task of taking care of her grand-daughter. God is so good! Joshua is great! You cannot imagine how much effort he took (financial management & spreadsheet calculation) painstakingly since 6mths ago to start planning for my parent's retirement. yes, even my dad will be coming over to live with us in BJ come Aug 08. He is hesitant and procrastinating the shift citing reasons like not being able to find a kopi-tiam to drink his kopi-O (thick), eat roti prata, D24 durians and all....so anyhow, he will come in Aug 08. We are still trying to persuade him to come earlier...
Anyhow, back to the apartment.
Yes, we went house-viewing this morning. Also in Central Park. Boy! the new Phase 3 are so beautiful! We saw a couple of units. Particularly, a 4-bedroom was so stylishly designed and the owner had it all set up for the future tenants with details like wine glasses, dinner napkins and all. I was so mesmerised....but the price was even "better" ...estimated to be about US$6000+!!! Siao or what....it blows our budget but still, it was great just to "see".
Then we came to a 3+1. 3 bed room with 1 study. It was PERFECT in our opinion. Rental was lower at USD3,200, 190 square metre, #02 floor plan at level 15 (I think...). Master bedroom came with a drooling setup of 2 washing basins, shower unit and bath tub. We can convert the mini study into Nadine's play room. And...Store Room! (which is exactly what we need) and even the rooms for my parents came with attached bathroom! (If i remember correctly, hormonal changes are making me more forgetful these days...EXCUSES!!)
Now, option 2 is a mini-4bedroom at 218 square metres #07 floor plan. Rental is more steep - USD4,500. Still can consider but really got to think and pray hard before we can take this option. Great setup...even with a balcony and for sure, attached bathrooms in 2 bedrooms inclusive of the master of course. Maid's room which potentially we can convert that into a store room. This is ideal but the rental price, gotta consider again.
We may potentially have an option 3. Cedric & Jean's phase 1 apartment at 188square-metres. Huge master bedroom (big enough for Nadine's cot and play area...yes, that huge). Master bedroom came with a drooling setup of 2 washing basins, shower unit and bath tub. Just that no store room...But rental may be less than USD2,800. Most economical and acceptable too. Available unit but we shall see if his owner is willing to wait 8mths for us.
My Jurong West apartment is only 113 square metres, my existing unit is 175 square metre....so question is : Do We really need another BIGGER apartment?? Godliness with contentment is great gain. We seriously need to plan, think, budget (do more excel spreadsheets) and PRAY for wisdom.
Pray with us.
Waiting for Nadine to arrive...I am 22 weeks today!
Praise the Lord!
That is what my current unit is at Tower 9 #37-05, Phase 2 Central Park in downtown Beijing CBD. The lease expires 30 Apr 08.
Therefore we have about 8months to decide if we need a new apartment with Nadine's arrival and my mom staying with us come March 08. My mom is officially retiring (FINALLY!!!) in Dec with Nadine's arrival into this wonderful world. Good for my mom, she is really tired and she has been working so hard all her life. I am so thankful that we are finally able to keep her from working and give her a new task of taking care of her grand-daughter. God is so good! Joshua is great! You cannot imagine how much effort he took (financial management & spreadsheet calculation) painstakingly since 6mths ago to start planning for my parent's retirement. yes, even my dad will be coming over to live with us in BJ come Aug 08. He is hesitant and procrastinating the shift citing reasons like not being able to find a kopi-tiam to drink his kopi-O (thick), eat roti prata, D24 durians and all....so anyhow, he will come in Aug 08. We are still trying to persuade him to come earlier...
Anyhow, back to the apartment.
Yes, we went house-viewing this morning. Also in Central Park. Boy! the new Phase 3 are so beautiful! We saw a couple of units. Particularly, a 4-bedroom was so stylishly designed and the owner had it all set up for the future tenants with details like wine glasses, dinner napkins and all. I was so mesmerised....but the price was even "better" ...estimated to be about US$6000+!!! Siao or what....it blows our budget but still, it was great just to "see".
Then we came to a 3+1. 3 bed room with 1 study. It was PERFECT in our opinion. Rental was lower at USD3,200, 190 square metre, #02 floor plan at level 15 (I think...). Master bedroom came with a drooling setup of 2 washing basins, shower unit and bath tub. We can convert the mini study into Nadine's play room. And...Store Room! (which is exactly what we need) and even the rooms for my parents came with attached bathroom! (If i remember correctly, hormonal changes are making me more forgetful these days...EXCUSES!!)
Now, option 2 is a mini-4bedroom at 218 square metres #07 floor plan. Rental is more steep - USD4,500. Still can consider but really got to think and pray hard before we can take this option. Great setup...even with a balcony and for sure, attached bathrooms in 2 bedrooms inclusive of the master of course. Maid's room which potentially we can convert that into a store room. This is ideal but the rental price, gotta consider again.
We may potentially have an option 3. Cedric & Jean's phase 1 apartment at 188square-metres. Huge master bedroom (big enough for Nadine's cot and play area...yes, that huge). Master bedroom came with a drooling setup of 2 washing basins, shower unit and bath tub. Just that no store room...But rental may be less than USD2,800. Most economical and acceptable too. Available unit but we shall see if his owner is willing to wait 8mths for us.
My Jurong West apartment is only 113 square metres, my existing unit is 175 square metre....so question is : Do We really need another BIGGER apartment?? Godliness with contentment is great gain. We seriously need to plan, think, budget (do more excel spreadsheets) and PRAY for wisdom.
Pray with us.
Waiting for Nadine to arrive...I am 22 weeks today!
Praise the Lord!
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
I eat all the time
Brekkie
I wake up literally thinking about brekkie...
Usually this is huge : bran cereal with skim milk / ham & cheese sandwich with sundried tomatoes, juice and fruit. I don't like fruit & dairy products at all & I eat almost nothing of these categories of food before I'd na-na but now with her, I swallow it nonetheless!
Lunch
At 1045am, I start concocting my lunch menu
If i had a choice, I would like hokkien fried noodles, sliced fish porridge, bah chor mee poh with lots of chilli & vinegar, lor mee or mee tai bak with ketchup. All these are "impossible food" which i can never find in Beijing, my compromise is "Golden Lake" 金湖茶餐厅 menu of macaroni soup, wanton noodles, seafood hor fun or si-chiap bee hoon.
Tea-snack
By 430pm, I am snacking but nowadays, I disciplined my flesh to eat low fat fruit, banana, carrot sticks or wholewheat crackers only. Still it is EATING
Dinner
I have to eat by 7pm, latest. Anything later than that results in heartburn or indigestion.
Need i go on? I am just eating all the time!
I wake up literally thinking about brekkie...
Usually this is huge : bran cereal with skim milk / ham & cheese sandwich with sundried tomatoes, juice and fruit. I don't like fruit & dairy products at all & I eat almost nothing of these categories of food before I'd na-na but now with her, I swallow it nonetheless!
Lunch
At 1045am, I start concocting my lunch menu
If i had a choice, I would like hokkien fried noodles, sliced fish porridge, bah chor mee poh with lots of chilli & vinegar, lor mee or mee tai bak with ketchup. All these are "impossible food" which i can never find in Beijing, my compromise is "Golden Lake" 金湖茶餐厅 menu of macaroni soup, wanton noodles, seafood hor fun or si-chiap bee hoon.
Tea-snack
By 430pm, I am snacking but nowadays, I disciplined my flesh to eat low fat fruit, banana, carrot sticks or wholewheat crackers only. Still it is EATING
Dinner
I have to eat by 7pm, latest. Anything later than that results in heartburn or indigestion.
Need i go on? I am just eating all the time!
Monday, August 20, 2007
Nadine Lim
59.2kg.
That is what the scale say at 21 weeks this morning when i weigh myself at 8am. Put on another 200g overnight! I am getting rounder and fatter by the day. Never knew i could put on so much weight in this frame of merely 1.59m.
I am really praying that all the weight gain will go STRAIGHT to Nadine (yes, that is the name we both like and have started calling her na-na) instead of residing on my arms & thighs! Must go to Marie France if I get grossly out of shape. Quite frankly, anything is worth it for my little girl as long as she is healthy & strong.
Nadine kinda responded well to that name whenever we talk to her. She gets particularly active whenever we watched city harvest service online especially during worship and preaching time. She liked Joyce Meyer's preaching. She was literally leaping last weekend when we attended both services online over the weekend. Nightly when Josh reads proverbs to her, chapter by chapter...she seemed to be listening intently and that brings tremendous excitement and joy to our heart.
The last scan in Beijing United was really much clearer than that in Gleneagles with Dr Fong. She has long limbs and finds great pleasure strangely in staring at her small hands. She seemed to be always in that "reading" position. Twice we saw her in that position instead of lying down. Whatever it is, as long as she is healthy, mom & dad will be glad.
Praying for her to get bigger each day, healthily. Can't wait to see her in late Dec... :)
That is what the scale say at 21 weeks this morning when i weigh myself at 8am. Put on another 200g overnight! I am getting rounder and fatter by the day. Never knew i could put on so much weight in this frame of merely 1.59m.
I am really praying that all the weight gain will go STRAIGHT to Nadine (yes, that is the name we both like and have started calling her na-na) instead of residing on my arms & thighs! Must go to Marie France if I get grossly out of shape. Quite frankly, anything is worth it for my little girl as long as she is healthy & strong.Nadine kinda responded well to that name whenever we talk to her. She gets particularly active whenever we watched city harvest service online especially during worship and preaching time. She liked Joyce Meyer's preaching. She was literally leaping last weekend when we attended both services online over the weekend. Nightly when Josh reads proverbs to her, chapter by chapter...she seemed to be listening intently and that brings tremendous excitement and joy to our heart.
The last scan in Beijing United was really much clearer than that in Gleneagles with Dr Fong. She has long limbs and finds great pleasure strangely in staring at her small hands. She seemed to be always in that "reading" position. Twice we saw her in that position instead of lying down. Whatever it is, as long as she is healthy, mom & dad will be glad.
Praying for her to get bigger each day, healthily. Can't wait to see her in late Dec... :)
Friday, May 25, 2007
Rom 4:3
"...Abraham believed God and it was accounted to him for righteousness."
Believe. That is what our christian faith is anchored upon. It is amazing how easily at times we fail to remind ourselves that. We allow the complication of life anxieties, circumstances, pressures and cares of this world choked out this perspective of having to simply believe. God has a wonderful way of reminding us that He alone is sufficient. He is simple, we are the complicated ones. All Jesus wanted was our total trust and allegiance to Him. That was the only thing Abraham held onto - his faith, his belief. He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God and being FULLY convinced that what He had promised, He was also able to perform.
What a great man of faith. No wonder God calls Abraham His friend. As I meditate on this, I felt the assurance and peace of God. It is a revelation unveiling before me again.
Believe. That is what our christian faith is anchored upon. It is amazing how easily at times we fail to remind ourselves that. We allow the complication of life anxieties, circumstances, pressures and cares of this world choked out this perspective of having to simply believe. God has a wonderful way of reminding us that He alone is sufficient. He is simple, we are the complicated ones. All Jesus wanted was our total trust and allegiance to Him. That was the only thing Abraham held onto - his faith, his belief. He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God and being FULLY convinced that what He had promised, He was also able to perform.
What a great man of faith. No wonder God calls Abraham His friend. As I meditate on this, I felt the assurance and peace of God. It is a revelation unveiling before me again.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Beijing International Christian Fellowship (BICF)
May 1 marked the one year anniversary since Josh and I both moved to Beijing.
Strangely it doesn't seemed that long but in the odd sense, it also felt like it has seemed to be much longer. Many reasons goes into it..one being that we have been travelling a lot both within and outside china for work and time just flew by. I made many trips back to Singapore, often for work (again) but each time to replenish my prune juices, trashy women magazines, curries, sauces, otah, personal care products and necessities. Most of all, each trip was a time of rejunvenation at church because spiritually we have been both under-nourished. It is a scary thought to backslide and become nonchalant with the things of God but if we are not careful and many times we found ourselves coming that close to being so cold, so distant. Whom do we have with us now that cell group, members, pastoral care and all seemed so far away, almost non-existent. We are not complaining because we know what is in stored for us when we made the decision to leave and settle into china. Quite on the contrary, we are glad we are here in china for many reasons.
We both left the local chinese church after attending there for several months. The expectations to serve and give are insummountable. There is the outflow but never the inflow where we felt ministered and pastored. Guess that is not the equation for us. After being there and doing whatever we could to help, serve, fellowship and everything....Can you believe that until today, the cell leader has never called us or even initiate to spend time with us. Even when we decided to leave, we have to take the initiative to arrange a dinner with her, pick her from her home and be accountable for the reasons why we choose to exit. I think the decision is correct.
Now, We have attended BICF for the last 7weeks already. We are not comparing but we like it there better. I am scheduled to be serving in the worship team this sunday and I am excited to be able to sing for the Lord. To start with doing the most insignificant so that I can start feeling part of this church family that I am yearning to belong to. I signed up for cell group with BICF in my 2nd week and they are planning on it now for our allocation. I am looking forward, really. It has been a year of almost going nowhere and I cannot imagine how Moses did 40yrs with the children of israel. Had it not for the internet service, Joshua's constant encouragement, Jo's friendship and above all, God's faithfulness we would have parched to death spiritually. But thank God, in all things....He made all things beautiful in His time.
Hopefully things will work out well in BICF and we will be planted in the house of God. This time, properly nurtured.
Strangely it doesn't seemed that long but in the odd sense, it also felt like it has seemed to be much longer. Many reasons goes into it..one being that we have been travelling a lot both within and outside china for work and time just flew by. I made many trips back to Singapore, often for work (again) but each time to replenish my prune juices, trashy women magazines, curries, sauces, otah, personal care products and necessities. Most of all, each trip was a time of rejunvenation at church because spiritually we have been both under-nourished. It is a scary thought to backslide and become nonchalant with the things of God but if we are not careful and many times we found ourselves coming that close to being so cold, so distant. Whom do we have with us now that cell group, members, pastoral care and all seemed so far away, almost non-existent. We are not complaining because we know what is in stored for us when we made the decision to leave and settle into china. Quite on the contrary, we are glad we are here in china for many reasons.
We both left the local chinese church after attending there for several months. The expectations to serve and give are insummountable. There is the outflow but never the inflow where we felt ministered and pastored. Guess that is not the equation for us. After being there and doing whatever we could to help, serve, fellowship and everything....Can you believe that until today, the cell leader has never called us or even initiate to spend time with us. Even when we decided to leave, we have to take the initiative to arrange a dinner with her, pick her from her home and be accountable for the reasons why we choose to exit. I think the decision is correct.
Now, We have attended BICF for the last 7weeks already. We are not comparing but we like it there better. I am scheduled to be serving in the worship team this sunday and I am excited to be able to sing for the Lord. To start with doing the most insignificant so that I can start feeling part of this church family that I am yearning to belong to. I signed up for cell group with BICF in my 2nd week and they are planning on it now for our allocation. I am looking forward, really. It has been a year of almost going nowhere and I cannot imagine how Moses did 40yrs with the children of israel. Had it not for the internet service, Joshua's constant encouragement, Jo's friendship and above all, God's faithfulness we would have parched to death spiritually. But thank God, in all things....He made all things beautiful in His time.
Hopefully things will work out well in BICF and we will be planted in the house of God. This time, properly nurtured.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Nasi Lemak
Camera not very good lah but the essence remains! Home cooked nasi lemak. Brought back pandan leaves & otah from Singapore. Invited Cedric & Jean (beijing Singaporeans) to "contribute" ikan billis and their sambal chilli!
Nasi Lemak International style
1. Thai Rice with Pandan leaves (flown in from Singapore)
2. Fried Egg (beijing organic egg)
3. Otah (flown in from Singapore)
4. Ikan Billis (flown in from Thailand)
5. Chicken Wings (Carrefour .... so does it make it French?!)
6. Sambal Chilly (HK receipe)
水煮活鱼 : 俏江南(国贸总店)
Pst Tan was asking me for recommendations to eat 水煮活鱼 and this is the place i found. Reasonable price and really good!
Website : http://www.dianping.com/shop/508232
俏江南(国贸总店)
口味 20 环境 22 服务 19 人均 ￥122
别名: South Beauty地址: 朝阳区建国门外大街1号国贸西楼2层L220号
电话: 010-65050809 65052288—80220
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“精品”川菜馆。出品是“改良”过的川菜，“形式大于内容”，味道也就“那么回事儿”。相比之下“更值得推荐”的是环境和服务——“小桥流水”，“舒适幽雅”，整体给人的“第一印象很好”；服务生大都“彬彬有礼”，“热情”而“周到”。价格走的是“高端路线”，适合“宴请”。
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Website : http://www.dianping.com/shop/508232
俏江南(国贸总店)
口味 20 环境 22 服务 19 人均 ￥122
别名: South Beauty地址: 朝阳区建国门外大街1号国贸西楼2层L220号
电话: 010-65050809 65052288—80220
分类标签
商务宴请(32) 川菜(32) 朋友聚餐(18) 情侣约会(9) 宴请(6)
商户简介
“精品”川菜馆。出品是“改良”过的川菜，“形式大于内容”，味道也就“那么回事儿”。相比之下“更值得推荐”的是环境和服务——“小桥流水”，“舒适幽雅”，整体给人的“第一印象很好”；服务生大都“彬彬有礼”，“热情”而“周到”。价格走的是“高端路线”，适合“宴请”。
推荐菜 [发送到手机]
江石滚肥牛(28) 摇滚沙拉(14) 石烹豆花(12) 豆花(12) 鸡丝凉面(12) 回锅鱼(11) 晾衣白肉(10) 樟茶鸭(9) 麻酱油麦菜(9) 手撕鸡(7) 毛血旺(7) 水煮鱼(4) 鱼唇汤(2)
Saturday, March 03, 2007
his absence brought HIS PRESENCE
I have been so occupied the last 10 weeks. I concluded 2006 with my family and kickstarted 2007 with fireworks, celebrating the lunar new year in style with fireworks (not crackers!) in Beijing. Much as gone into the 10weeks and it would be injustice just to let a great testimony pass without sharing it with you who is reading this right now of all that has happened (well at least in brief) during christmas 2006.
Going back to Singapore during christmas was a planned holiday. We had originally planned to go back to do so much...kickstart golf sport with a 4-lesson session, catch up with everybody in church, enjoy continuous lunch, coffee, dinner, suppers and roti-pratas catchup sessions with everybody back home with a roundup of attending ryan & andrea's wedding. In between, what was most important was to visit my grandfather who has been critically ill since late october. While we prayed and believed God for a miracle but at the same instance, we are just as mentally prepared for the Lord to do what is best deemed fit because we know that regardless of what the outcome maybe for grandfather, God knows the best. Indeed His ways are higher than our ways and His thoughts supercedes ours. Grandfather passed away on christmas eve, 24th Dec 2006 and went back to be with the Lord in Heaven....To comfort my mom, I told her that grandfather had found favour in God's eyes so much so that Jesus wanted him to be in heaven celebrating christmas with the angels....until today, i believed that was more than a comfort, that was the truth.
I vividly remembered receiving a call from my mom at work at about 1225pm and the moment i heard her trembling voice, i knew exactly what she was about to say. There was tremendous amount of tension, stress and everybody was apparently grieved. Some handled it at their stride but there were many insensitive exchange of words which unfortunately I became a part of in one of the conversations. However, all things worked together for good....by applying God's grace and wisdom in those situations helped and things turned around. By withholding our opinionated criticisms, extending grace and forgiveness, i am amazed at how it was able to resolve all unhappiness and conflicts in the family. My distraughted aunt came to me at the 3rd day of the wake to apologise but more than that she being an unbeliever gave the Lord the glory , believing that the Lord has given us the wisdom to know how to handle the situation most rationally and in love instead of being judgemental. For that, God deserves the praise.
The dialect church pastor from Church of Singapore (COS) touched my mother and her 8 siblings so deeply simply by being there every night at the wake. He did not just conduct another regular funeral service but he demonstrated his pastoral love and genuine care by going the extra mile ... from finding a columbarium for the ashes placement to reaching out to my uncles, aunties and cousins who were there individually by spending time fellowshipping with them nightly. And because they were all so ministered and touched by the ministry of COS, all of them attended the first service in Jan 2007. What a phenonmenal start to the year by spending the first sunday of the year in church, as a family. I don't know about you but I was so blessed just thinking about it even right now. My first uncle who is the most hardened and staunched taoist gave his heart to Jesus after the 2nd weekend service and as I am writing this blog right now, he is preparing to give his conversion testimony in church tomorrow at service. We were thrilled just celebrating his salvation. Now there are 4 of them saved...my mom, aunt betty, uncle lawrence and first uncle, I believe all my other uncles and aunties will come to know the Lord very soon. Act 16:31 is coming to pass very soon. Praise the Lord
Yeah and before i forget........... to those who came to my grandfather's funeral wake...thanks so much. Your presence meant so much to me, joshua and my family.
Grandfather may be absent today physically in our midst but his passing away brought God's presence into the family. That in itself is something we can rejoice despite us missing him deeply. Having shared all, what can i say but God is good all the time & all the time, God is good.
Going back to Singapore during christmas was a planned holiday. We had originally planned to go back to do so much...kickstart golf sport with a 4-lesson session, catch up with everybody in church, enjoy continuous lunch, coffee, dinner, suppers and roti-pratas catchup sessions with everybody back home with a roundup of attending ryan & andrea's wedding. In between, what was most important was to visit my grandfather who has been critically ill since late october. While we prayed and believed God for a miracle but at the same instance, we are just as mentally prepared for the Lord to do what is best deemed fit because we know that regardless of what the outcome maybe for grandfather, God knows the best. Indeed His ways are higher than our ways and His thoughts supercedes ours. Grandfather passed away on christmas eve, 24th Dec 2006 and went back to be with the Lord in Heaven....To comfort my mom, I told her that grandfather had found favour in God's eyes so much so that Jesus wanted him to be in heaven celebrating christmas with the angels....until today, i believed that was more than a comfort, that was the truth.
I vividly remembered receiving a call from my mom at work at about 1225pm and the moment i heard her trembling voice, i knew exactly what she was about to say. There was tremendous amount of tension, stress and everybody was apparently grieved. Some handled it at their stride but there were many insensitive exchange of words which unfortunately I became a part of in one of the conversations. However, all things worked together for good....by applying God's grace and wisdom in those situations helped and things turned around. By withholding our opinionated criticisms, extending grace and forgiveness, i am amazed at how it was able to resolve all unhappiness and conflicts in the family. My distraughted aunt came to me at the 3rd day of the wake to apologise but more than that she being an unbeliever gave the Lord the glory , believing that the Lord has given us the wisdom to know how to handle the situation most rationally and in love instead of being judgemental. For that, God deserves the praise.
The dialect church pastor from Church of Singapore (COS) touched my mother and her 8 siblings so deeply simply by being there every night at the wake. He did not just conduct another regular funeral service but he demonstrated his pastoral love and genuine care by going the extra mile ... from finding a columbarium for the ashes placement to reaching out to my uncles, aunties and cousins who were there individually by spending time fellowshipping with them nightly. And because they were all so ministered and touched by the ministry of COS, all of them attended the first service in Jan 2007. What a phenonmenal start to the year by spending the first sunday of the year in church, as a family. I don't know about you but I was so blessed just thinking about it even right now. My first uncle who is the most hardened and staunched taoist gave his heart to Jesus after the 2nd weekend service and as I am writing this blog right now, he is preparing to give his conversion testimony in church tomorrow at service. We were thrilled just celebrating his salvation. Now there are 4 of them saved...my mom, aunt betty, uncle lawrence and first uncle, I believe all my other uncles and aunties will come to know the Lord very soon. Act 16:31 is coming to pass very soon. Praise the Lord
Yeah and before i forget........... to those who came to my grandfather's funeral wake...thanks so much. Your presence meant so much to me, joshua and my family.
Grandfather may be absent today physically in our midst but his passing away brought God's presence into the family. That in itself is something we can rejoice despite us missing him deeply. Having shared all, what can i say but God is good all the time & all the time, God is good.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
Some photos we took at the DMZ. See, i am getting lazy writing but phots & pictures paint a thousand words!!! Bear with me, i will be back with more updates hopefully soon!
Thursday, January 18, 2007
龙庆霞冰雕
Trying to look good and pose in the enclosed heated car before i get all wrapped up when i step into the ice-snow mountain!
This is how cold it is! Josh is all wrapped up like South-park kenny!! haha!!
He looks so cute, doesn't he!
These are real snow & it is literally a frozen snow mountain! If you stare hard into the photo, 江泽明did the opening for this tourist attraction. It is about 2hrs drive from where we live. It may be a long drive but was a comfortable ride with the heating system in the car, i have absolutely NO complaints!
These are real ice cravings and it was so well made. You see the houses of 三只小猪! What's more, they craved a condensed version of disney land inside the mountain! And everything is life-size!
This is how cold it is! Josh is all wrapped up like South-park kenny!! haha!!
He looks so cute, doesn't he!These are real snow & it is literally a frozen snow mountain! If you stare hard into the photo, 江泽明did the opening for this tourist attraction. It is about 2hrs drive from where we live. It may be a long drive but was a comfortable ride with the heating system in the car, i have absolutely NO complaints!
These are real ice cravings and it was so well made. You see the houses of 三只小猪! What's more, they craved a condensed version of disney land inside the mountain! And everything is life-size!
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Joshua
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We were fellow CG member in S12 (haha...way back in 1998!)
My best friend
My soul mate
My much rational, much intelligent, much BETTER half!
My dearest husband!
Four wonderful and happy years of marriage & many more to come!
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Do not despise the days of humble beginning!
My second day learning golf today with Josh at Seletar Country Club and I must say that I am really not an athletic! He is definitely a much better player than me. Better ball sense & greater aptitude with sports. Attributing it back to days in ACS where he was trained to "bend his knees" (yeah, Jo will tell me that I should have persisted in tennis 7 yrs ago but nah....) and swing the ball but you know what i think? It is really his ability to coordinate himself through the many years of experience playing arcade games, nintendo, computer games, PS2 and now his favourite PSP! I am one person who can't "jump, run and shoot all at one go!" No surprises for the 5x required for me to pass my driving exams to get that precious license. Sorry no auto-car learning 10 yrs ago! Yes, well at least I am a confident manual car driver today & I can proudly profess to be a good driver! So.................golf is here to stay & I am determined to get the strokes right. My back swing & Full front swing. I got my first pair of golf gloves yesterday as well! Must persist & ensure I master the game. Yeah, once again I am reminded never to forget the days of my humble beginning when i first started learning driving. If i can succeed in driving, I can suceed in golf. Nothing is impossible!
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Partially right vs Completely wrong
Lessons Learnt & thereby, ReVelATion unfold...
Person A says this "I rather not speak because if I keep quiet, at least nobody will know that I am ignorant but the moment I speak, my ignorance is exposed." Then I heard this from another somebody (Person B) who said : "I rather be partially right than completely wrong."
Most people choose to be Person A simply because it is more comfortable, convenient, being laid back is the acceptable norm & appeared to be less risky. What they fail to see is that in that comfortable & secured zone, you are almost 100% unlikely to progress further in life and more importantly, you are definitely prideful. No pain, no gain. Well, as I thought through...you know what, it is more exciting to be Person B. Person B lives a colourful life. He tries more things, fails more times but also achieve greater heights. Most likely more humble than "A". You are open to new ideas, constructive corrections and you are not afraid to make mistakes & laugh at them when they happen from time to time. It is like exercising our faith. Without faith it is impossible to please God because God desires adventure with us, teaches & coaches us through lives ups & downs. He expects us to do the Free Fall on HIM because HE is sure to "catch" us. When we succeed, He is glorified but when we fail, God ensures that those experiences are not wasted either....Therefore a faith proclaiming, bible believing christian is a type B, person B or whatever you wish to term it.
Sometimes we drawback especially when it comes to issues where we are not the subject matter experts or the guru. Being asians, many times we have to be provoked and challenged to speak our mind and share our comments in a public forum. Does that explains why it is usually the australians and americans (in short caucasians) who are vocal and the asians (chinese especially) lay low just in case "mah lu". Our attitude needs to change. It really depends how we see ourselves in the mirror. Just as the greatest deception is self deception, Our greatest enemy is ourselves.
The bible tells, teaches, reminded, admonished us this everlasting principle :
1. Be quick to listen
Revelation : pay attention & be sharp in the mind and in the spirit
2. Be slow to speak
Revelation : THINK before you speak. Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Your words reveal your character. I cannot elaborate enough on this...
3. Slow to wrath
Revelation : Even when you are found to be "not that right" or even wrong, don't "wrath" and be upset with others or even yourself. Part of learning involves making mistakes.
Once again, Our attitude needs to change. It really depends how we see ourselves in the mirror. Just as the greatest deception is self deception, Our greatest enemy is ourselves.
As I write, I am REMINDING myself.
Person A says this "I rather not speak because if I keep quiet, at least nobody will know that I am ignorant but the moment I speak, my ignorance is exposed." Then I heard this from another somebody (Person B) who said : "I rather be partially right than completely wrong."
Most people choose to be Person A simply because it is more comfortable, convenient, being laid back is the acceptable norm & appeared to be less risky. What they fail to see is that in that comfortable & secured zone, you are almost 100% unlikely to progress further in life and more importantly, you are definitely prideful. No pain, no gain. Well, as I thought through...you know what, it is more exciting to be Person B. Person B lives a colourful life. He tries more things, fails more times but also achieve greater heights. Most likely more humble than "A". You are open to new ideas, constructive corrections and you are not afraid to make mistakes & laugh at them when they happen from time to time. It is like exercising our faith. Without faith it is impossible to please God because God desires adventure with us, teaches & coaches us through lives ups & downs. He expects us to do the Free Fall on HIM because HE is sure to "catch" us. When we succeed, He is glorified but when we fail, God ensures that those experiences are not wasted either....Therefore a faith proclaiming, bible believing christian is a type B, person B or whatever you wish to term it.
Sometimes we drawback especially when it comes to issues where we are not the subject matter experts or the guru. Being asians, many times we have to be provoked and challenged to speak our mind and share our comments in a public forum. Does that explains why it is usually the australians and americans (in short caucasians) who are vocal and the asians (chinese especially) lay low just in case "mah lu". Our attitude needs to change. It really depends how we see ourselves in the mirror. Just as the greatest deception is self deception, Our greatest enemy is ourselves.
The bible tells, teaches, reminded, admonished us this everlasting principle :
1. Be quick to listen
Revelation : pay attention & be sharp in the mind and in the spirit
2. Be slow to speak
Revelation : THINK before you speak. Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Your words reveal your character. I cannot elaborate enough on this...
3. Slow to wrath
Revelation : Even when you are found to be "not that right" or even wrong, don't "wrath" and be upset with others or even yourself. Part of learning involves making mistakes.
Once again, Our attitude needs to change. It really depends how we see ourselves in the mirror. Just as the greatest deception is self deception, Our greatest enemy is ourselves.
As I write, I am REMINDING myself.
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Happy birthday to me
"More precious than silver, more costly than gold..." No riches on the earth compares with having a relationship with Jesus my King, my Lord, my best friend. This was (yes, literally "was" now that I am no longer a cgl) my favourite worship song during the years when I led cell groups. God never fail to show up tangibly everytime we sing this song with tears in our eyes. This seemed to be the special song for E154. This song touches God's heart deeply just as it touches our heart.
Strangely, I do feel a sense of loss recently. I missed being a cell leader, I miss leading worship and getting into the presence of God together with my members. I miss the late night counselling and early morning bible study appointments i used to have with shirley and lunch time appointments with jo, kat, lydia, tricia, cin and sharon. Boy, how I miss serving the Lord with my church family in city harvest. My heart leapt with excitement this morning when Pst Kong shared abt having 5 services during christmas in anticipation of 40,000 people congregating together this christmas. Deep within my spirit, I knew God will come through for us again. Well, truth is...He never let us down so this time is no exception.
As I reminsce the good old times, I know strongly in my spirit that the Lord speaks to me of His calling over my life. His calling over my life is irrevocable. I always enjoy worship, leading worship and being in worship. It is in worship where I feel totally at peace and engulfed in His love.
It was my birthday yesterday. I turned 32 and for the first time in years, I spent my birthday quietly with yes, no members. I felt completely satisfied because my best friend, husband and soulmate is by my side. Nobody takes the place of Joshua in my life. I love him with all my heart. Josh is the best gift God has given to me. Then, I realise...i missed my members. Just when I felt the "loss", all the birthday sms greetings came through on my mobile phone. One after another, I felt so blessed and so loved. I felt that it is God's way of reminding me of His unfailing & faithful love. Truly those years of sowing my life to serve Him has been reaped a harvest that remain. Just meditating on that warmed my heart.
What do I wish for this birthday? I made my wish. 3 things : (1) my grandfather to be healed of lung cancer (2) Josh to be able to see every single day of his life (3)....for me to know and for you to find out.
Never mind the number or the content of these birthday wishes because I know the Lord I love, serve and live for will be faithful.
Happy birthday Cindy.
Strangely, I do feel a sense of loss recently. I missed being a cell leader, I miss leading worship and getting into the presence of God together with my members. I miss the late night counselling and early morning bible study appointments i used to have with shirley and lunch time appointments with jo, kat, lydia, tricia, cin and sharon. Boy, how I miss serving the Lord with my church family in city harvest. My heart leapt with excitement this morning when Pst Kong shared abt having 5 services during christmas in anticipation of 40,000 people congregating together this christmas. Deep within my spirit, I knew God will come through for us again. Well, truth is...He never let us down so this time is no exception.
As I reminsce the good old times, I know strongly in my spirit that the Lord speaks to me of His calling over my life. His calling over my life is irrevocable. I always enjoy worship, leading worship and being in worship. It is in worship where I feel totally at peace and engulfed in His love.
It was my birthday yesterday. I turned 32 and for the first time in years, I spent my birthday quietly with yes, no members. I felt completely satisfied because my best friend, husband and soulmate is by my side. Nobody takes the place of Joshua in my life. I love him with all my heart. Josh is the best gift God has given to me. Then, I realise...i missed my members. Just when I felt the "loss", all the birthday sms greetings came through on my mobile phone. One after another, I felt so blessed and so loved. I felt that it is God's way of reminding me of His unfailing & faithful love. Truly those years of sowing my life to serve Him has been reaped a harvest that remain. Just meditating on that warmed my heart.
What do I wish for this birthday? I made my wish. 3 things : (1) my grandfather to be healed of lung cancer (2) Josh to be able to see every single day of his life (3)....for me to know and for you to find out.
Never mind the number or the content of these birthday wishes because I know the Lord I love, serve and live for will be faithful.
Happy birthday Cindy.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Solution Provider
I was reminded : If I am not part of the solution, I am part of the problem.
Therefore, I must be a solution provider! In every problem, there are opportunities for me to once again demonstrate myself as the light & salt of the world. I refuse to complain, lament or even mope over the issues. Time to move on, get going & as I step out in faith (& lots of grace & wisdom from God), I know the Holy Spirit will be my partner. God never lead me this far to let me down. He is good. If there is no team spirit, I create one. If there is no unity, I be the first to stay united. If there is no synergy, I be the catalyst. I can make things happen.
Some people watch things happen
Some people wonder what happen
Some people make things happen....I want to be that somebody
I can make a difference.
I am happy again!
Therefore, I must be a solution provider! In every problem, there are opportunities for me to once again demonstrate myself as the light & salt of the world. I refuse to complain, lament or even mope over the issues. Time to move on, get going & as I step out in faith (& lots of grace & wisdom from God), I know the Holy Spirit will be my partner. God never lead me this far to let me down. He is good. If there is no team spirit, I create one. If there is no unity, I be the first to stay united. If there is no synergy, I be the catalyst. I can make things happen.
Some people watch things happen
Some people wonder what happen
Some people make things happen....I want to be that somebody
I can make a difference.
I am happy again!
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Wisdom is knowing who is your Source
James 3: 13 " who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom"
Earthly wisdom is demonstrated by being devious, overbearing, domineering and most of all, self seeking..the bible tells us that this type of wisdom does not come from above but is earthly, sensual and demonic. For where envy and self seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But on the other hand, the wisdom that is from heaven is first PURE, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy...
So often, it is almost effortless for us to be filled with envy and become self centred in our lives. When we see others with a wonderful job, great family, pay raise ...basically enjoying better things and seemingly God has given them more at "our expense", the feeling of envy begin to rise. How true it is that true wisdom is first pure. God expects us (me, as I am writing this...i am reminding myself!) to seek for purity. Purity in intent, thoughts and actions. We may smile and rejoice on the outset but deep within our hearts, we can become envious or even bitter sometimes so subconsciously. I believe that is when God tells us repeatedly that we have to guard our heart which is the wellspring of life....out of it flows issues of life. Heavenly wisdom is one where we exercise gentleness, humility and grace through our actions and words as we represent Jesus. Are we too casual in saying that "Thank God for wisdom" when the resulting action of that "wisdom" fails to fulfil the biblical definition of heavenly wisdom as in Jas 13:17? Think about it....The next time we ask God for wisdom, the bible tells us HE will give it to us lavishly, check against these qualities and ask " Is my action which is performed out of the wisdom of Christ, is it done in purity, gentleness, grace and bear fruits that will remain?" Else, more likely it is just fulfilling your self seeking desire...which regretfully is not a result of Godly wisdom.
As you check your hearts, I am checking mine.....
This coming weekend is Arise & Build pledging weekend. Since weeks ago, I have began check my heart. The amount I am pledging is never derived out of my own wisdom (sheer calculation of income minus expenses and cost of living and some savings...). I don't want to give for the purpose of seeking anything else from God. I give because I want to bless the Lord. He knows my greatest and only desire so there is no need to give more $ just to "arm-twist" Him to release from heaven because i cannot manipulate the Lord anyway!
He gives and bless as He will and I just simply trust that He is indeed a God of More than enough. He has blessed me with more than what I could ever think or imagine all these years. There is no means to even compute the accumulated blessings the Lord has given me. It came in the form of a fulfilling marriage, favour, great family, wonderful friendships, success in career, material possessions, peace of mind, tranquility in my spirit and more importantly, the priviledged friendship i have with my Jesus. Much as it is not a bed of roses (there are great disappointments, sense of loss and uncertainty) but surely, God has been showing me that in the midst of being pricked by the thorns of life, I can always focus on the roses. Life is a matter of perspective and I choose to always (it is a conscious and hard effort honestly!) focus on those roses.
Earthly wisdom is demonstrated by being devious, overbearing, domineering and most of all, self seeking..the bible tells us that this type of wisdom does not come from above but is earthly, sensual and demonic. For where envy and self seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But on the other hand, the wisdom that is from heaven is first PURE, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy...
So often, it is almost effortless for us to be filled with envy and become self centred in our lives. When we see others with a wonderful job, great family, pay raise ...basically enjoying better things and seemingly God has given them more at "our expense", the feeling of envy begin to rise. How true it is that true wisdom is first pure. God expects us (me, as I am writing this...i am reminding myself!) to seek for purity. Purity in intent, thoughts and actions. We may smile and rejoice on the outset but deep within our hearts, we can become envious or even bitter sometimes so subconsciously. I believe that is when God tells us repeatedly that we have to guard our heart which is the wellspring of life....out of it flows issues of life. Heavenly wisdom is one where we exercise gentleness, humility and grace through our actions and words as we represent Jesus. Are we too casual in saying that "Thank God for wisdom" when the resulting action of that "wisdom" fails to fulfil the biblical definition of heavenly wisdom as in Jas 13:17? Think about it....The next time we ask God for wisdom, the bible tells us HE will give it to us lavishly, check against these qualities and ask " Is my action which is performed out of the wisdom of Christ, is it done in purity, gentleness, grace and bear fruits that will remain?" Else, more likely it is just fulfilling your self seeking desire...which regretfully is not a result of Godly wisdom.
As you check your hearts, I am checking mine.....
This coming weekend is Arise & Build pledging weekend. Since weeks ago, I have began check my heart. The amount I am pledging is never derived out of my own wisdom (sheer calculation of income minus expenses and cost of living and some savings...). I don't want to give for the purpose of seeking anything else from God. I give because I want to bless the Lord. He knows my greatest and only desire so there is no need to give more $ just to "arm-twist" Him to release from heaven because i cannot manipulate the Lord anyway!
He gives and bless as He will and I just simply trust that He is indeed a God of More than enough. He has blessed me with more than what I could ever think or imagine all these years. There is no means to even compute the accumulated blessings the Lord has given me. It came in the form of a fulfilling marriage, favour, great family, wonderful friendships, success in career, material possessions, peace of mind, tranquility in my spirit and more importantly, the priviledged friendship i have with my Jesus. Much as it is not a bed of roses (there are great disappointments, sense of loss and uncertainty) but surely, God has been showing me that in the midst of being pricked by the thorns of life, I can always focus on the roses. Life is a matter of perspective and I choose to always (it is a conscious and hard effort honestly!) focus on those roses.
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