My simple life

Blog is not a tamagotchi - Another update

2009-08-07T17:54:00.000-07:00

I am glad my blog isnt a tamagotchi.... this handheld digital pet that u have to constantly give it attention.... i have been so lazy to update my life since it went on the fast pace..... back in singapore of course.....

Life has moved on so much, that, a year ago, I wouldnt have been able to predict where i am.

Started with Swire in May. It has been a great job for me so far. Great colleagues, good boss, interesting work (so far)..... what more can you ask of a job? Nothing much more for me... Thank God for his providence... indeed if you ask believing... you will be rewarded.... according to his timing of coz.... It is amazing how little things and details fell in place during this period... It's all down to God, none to man.... my interview itself was a great miracle...

Signed my sale and purchase for the peak during the week. One of the biggest headaches in my life. So glad that this is over for a few reasons.... property market is blooming again... glad a real home owner like me doesnt have to fight for elbow space with property speculators..... also... we are loving this place the more we look at it... the location, the view, and almost everything... it's like a relationship.... it grows sweeter and deeper each time we look at it..... Really thank God for the divine timing..

Wedding prep.... so far so good.... Definitely thanks to God and many friends who have been so so super enthu about helping us... seriously...i am so bad with details... without the strength of my dearie... this thing will surely be a mess right now. I am hope

Living with certainty in uncertain times

2009-04-29T09:33:00.000-07:00

Decided to update my blog after a year of absence. Was doing my quiet time, and realized that I should really record this unique time in my life, when I am challenged on a daily basis.

I am currently jobless, and definitely seeking out employment actively. I was just reading a short article/message on the “my daily bread” website, under “my utmost for his highest” for Apr 29, recommended by a mentor that I look up to tremendously. It is about living in life’s uncertainty, but being completely certain in God… definitely a good read for anyone that faces any slight uncertainty in life, especially me!

I am usually a decently humble guy, but in my walk with God, still trying very much to depend on my own strength. My current journey has humbled me a great deal, making me understand that through my own strength, I can achieve very little. It is only through God’s grace that I can achieve anything at all. Hence I have to learn to lean on him, trust him, commit all things to his hands, cast our worries onto him.

I used to think that I should be able to manage interviews pretty decently, while I may not be the best of the best, I should do decent in interviews. Through this process of walking with God and going through the various rejections and uncertainty, I learnt that what God wants to give me, no one can take from me, what God has not prepared for me, I can never get.

God has been good and real to me, giving me various encouragements, a lot of friends and mentors who are walking this journey with me, guiding me, teaching me, holding me. God has been good in sending many many messages like one on him leading Israel through the desert for 40 years without them ever being in need… about 1 Peter 5:11, that after suffering a while, God’s truth will come to pass.

Of course God blessed me with a tremendous partner that is supporting me and walking with me through this testing time.

In good times, u see friends, in tough times, you see true friends…. Thanks to all who has tried to help me, and show concern, and given words of encouragement, it means a lot to me, each and everyone of you.

I thank God for these friends… true friends… and most importantly, I thank God for being such a true God to me… I pray that I will continue to learn to walk the journey in a way that will make him proud, that will demonstrate God’s goodness in me.
AMEN!

Rodeo and Brazos Bend in March

2008-04-09T16:15:00.001-07:00

Some updates for March.

March 22, Zhiying's birthday... we spent the weekend without the dodo couple as they went to join Girls Gone Wild in Panama City, Florida.

We have been wanting to go Rodeo once more, but for the 3 weeks that Rodeo was on, it was either she was busy or I was busy.

Finally, we managed to get a ticket from Stubhub. A little pricy, but we were seated in the bottom section, about 10-15 rows from the front. We had a great view of all the events that were ongoing.

I managed to take some pictures, and videos, and am really happy to bring back memories of this unique event in Houston.

It was not a particularly romantic affair, but i think we both enjoyed the experience a great deal. Seeing the "cowboy"ish activities, and soaking in the texan atmosphere is something that we both appreciate.

Some photos taken: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=32383&l=2dda2&id=712647233

That saturday ended with a dinner to this Tex-mex place for the farewell of our Korean colleague, Kyle Lee. He was here on a Global exchange, and was heading home after 18 months in Houston. Both Zing and I met him during one of our Internal Audit visits on Hines....

Sunday came, and my pollen allergy was so bad that I was bedstruck the whole day. I managed to watch some NCAA basketball.... there were several intense game, which was great.

Another week passed, and the following weekend, we joined Loren and his family at Brazos Bend State Park, which is like a 50 mins drive from Houston. Relatively near for a decent size park. It all began 2 weeks ago when he asked if I ever had s'mores. I didnt know what it was, so he told me it's this sweet desert thing that Americans make over BBQ. Basically, it's one or two roasted marshmallow and melted chocolate, placed between 2 Graham brand crackers (or S'poreans say biscuits).

So he asked us to join him that weekend. It was a really pretty park. We went there about 1.5hrs before meeting Loren, and took a quick walk. We even saw an Alligator which we walked by without noticing. Only when we spoke to one of the park goers, did they point it out to us. A huge one in fact, but it was minding its own business.

We went to join Loren and Tamara, with their kids, Evie and in the evening, and had simple stuff like hot dog with bread and s'mores. We were joined by Mike and his wife, Loren's neighbours and friends. It was a really relaxing time when we sat by the campfire till it was almost 10pm.... just taking it easy, talking about ourselves, asking about them, enjoying the nature, the dark sky... the campfire... and some guitar strumming by Mike.

We enjoyed the park, and promised to try to go back there again... if we can find an empty weekend.

Some photos taken: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=33205&l=26a30&id=712647233

The following day, my pollen allergy acted up again, and I was suffering from a sore eye (yes, just the right one). I had to stay at home to rest more on Sunday.

My allergies (something I never had before) got worse and I went to get the presciption that the doctor gave me during the week, and was hoping that I will get better before the weekend comes.

I took the plunge

2008-03-31T21:46:00.000-07:00

Today, I contacted someone from a project that reaches out to the homeless.. "The Beacon". It will be on Saturday, from 9am to 530pm. I finally took my first step towards restoring what I used to do.

I pray that God will sustain me, and allow me to participate in this project regularly, and when I am tired, I pray that God will help me through it.

Since we are going to a ranch on Saturday, I will not be able to join the project this saturday. I hope I will be there next week. God willing...

The seeds of life

2008-03-25T13:13:00.000-07:00

The passage below shows the different sides of me since I came to the US. It seems like a simple passge, yet has such a strong impact.

Luke 8:5-15

5"A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path; it was trampled on, and the birds of the air ate it up. 6Some fell on rock, and when it came up, the plants withered because they had no moisture. 7Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up with it and choked the plants. 8Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown."

11"This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God. 12Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. 13Those on the rock are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. 14The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. 15But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.

There are 4 types of life that I have lived.

1) A unchurched life in verse 12

I sometimes live like I do not know God. I forgot that God worked many miracles in my life so far. I do not read his word, I do not spread his word... I live life like life is all about me, as if God was never in my life.

2) Short term memory in verse 13

There are times I go to church, and felt that the sermon was good. I would think to myself, I need to apply the sermon to my life. But I dont. I left church with that "feel good" feeling, that I have checked the "I have attended church" box, then when I reached home, I forget that I am a Christain. When something elses requires of my time, I will no longer put God as my top priority. When I am tired, I dont want to show up at church. I want my time, I want to do my things.... I do not read the bible regularly, I no longer have the compassion for the needy, basically, when it comes to crunch time... I simply crumple...

3) The self centered me... in verse 14

Like I mentioned in one of my previous posts, I have become more and more self centered after coming here. I have not grown much spiritually since I came here. It is not because of a different church, or different cell group. It is solely because of a change in my mindset. My focus has moved away from God... to me, myself and I. It's all about my travelling... my taking better pictures... it's all about me. I forgot about the needy people that God placed me around. I wanted to do my things, use my time, have my fun... all for myself.

4) The "me" that I want to become... in verse 15

I want to rediscover my compassion. I want to rediscover God. I want to grow, I want to have a hunger for the unchurched friends and family members. I want to read his word more and know him more... I want his word to guide my life, and nothing else. Help me God...

God help me... remind me... make me more consistent. God, I know I have changed, but I want to change back to what I used to do... how I used to think... the way I used to act... Lord, help me.

Readings for yesterday

2008-03-20T08:31:00.000-07:00

Matthew 6
19"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

This is a good passage for someone like me.... who usually forgets that whatever in the world now is temporary... When I got to the US... I am always thinking about personal satisfaction... personal fulfilment.... being with people... having fun... travelling... enjoying my life for me and me alone......

While God DOES want me to enjoy my life... and derive personal satisfaction in the things I do... He doesnt want me to forget that the real purpose in my life is to reach out to the needy... that is where His heart is....

Coming here and being overwhelmed by many small things to settle.... I have developed a sense of "my time is for me to do MY things" attitude... I go to church... help out at service.... but i lost the hunger to help the needy... I lost the "die to self" mentality.....

I pray to God... asking for him to help me... rediscover the hunger... rediscover the love for the needy... Thank God and Amen.

My talk with God... part 2

2008-03-18T23:26:00.000-07:00

Following my previous post...

I read some really powerful messages that I want to note down in this online journal of mine.

Matthew 5:37 "Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes', and your 'No', 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one."

I have quoted this verse in many ocassions... but never really got the true message.

I am a big preacher of the "GRAY area" in our life... and I have always said that many things cannot be a straight yes... or a definite no... there are always a "depends" in all situations... almost... being blessed with the ability to twist some whites into blacks, rights into wrongs... I have often convinced myself of this "gray" substance.

Today... I got the message from God... when in doubt, ask yourself... "What would Jesus do?"

There was also another verse...

Matthew 5:28 "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart."

Being a weak man God made me... this is a message that I definitely should bear in mind... When a woman with a good figure walks by.... when the cheerleaders are doing their sexy moves... I should learn to look away. Always try not to tempt myself by giving that "second look". I pray that God will remind me that... he already had during tonight's game.

Thank God....

My talk with God

2008-03-18T23:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday... I couldnt go to sleep.... so I woke up... I went to talk to God.... Physically, I was reading the bible like many other times... but this time... I decided to read it, and be sensitive to God's message for me in the verses I read.

I read Matthew 5... and was on verses 23 - 24".... if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother, then come and offer your gift"

This must be the upteemth time that I read these verses, but I always remembered it as "if I have something against my brother".... so I had this differences with a friend. I felt that he could have something "against" me, but I questioned myself honestly, and was able to say that I was not holding anything against him. Hence I did not try to resolve the "issue" between us. I always use the excuse... it is not with me... I have nothing against him... so the issue lies with him... "ball is not in my court"

But God had a different message for me... He wants me to go reconcile with someone whom I think/know has something against me. I may not harbour any ill feelings, but I still have to make the first step to reconcile with him.

I prayed about it... and knew God has this message for me, knowing this particular issue.

So this afternoon, I finally followed God's message for me... and talked to him. It was good, and we exchange some nonsense.... and had quite a decent talk.

I am glad that I followed the promptings of God.... and resolved this "knot".... God is good... he guided me through it... Thank God...

Camden Vanderbilt, my home

2008-02-18T21:15:00.001-08:00

Always wanted to take a picture of the apartment complex where I live. It's a pretty neat place. The sun was setting today, and I remembered that it's one of the better times to take a picture. Here you have it... Camden Vanderbilt. more to come if I can process them properly.

Will you be my valentine?

2008-02-14T23:39:00.000-08:00

Many year ago... someone said yes to my question. Today, we celebrated this highly commercialized day in an uncommercialized manner.... A simple meal prepared with the heart... the heart to touch the other heart.

Here is it....
Preparation process:
1) The kitchen

2) Main course

3) Mains with Starter

4) My favourite diner

5) Now for the desserts

6) Looks like I have a satisfied customer

Mad rush to end the year 2007

2008-01-06T20:25:00.000-08:00

New year with new resolutions... no time for that yet...

First... to summarize the end to this adventure filled year.

Went to Lake Tahoe for a wonderful weekend for snowboarding.... thank God, we had a great time due to the timely snowfall. Got to see a little more of San Francisco... still my favourite city to live in.

12/15/2007... Christmas party. It was fun to dress up and go for a function. Tiring time talking to pple... I am too cheena to enjoy an ang moh party. I had so much fun in all the DT Christmas parties/DnD in Singapore... maybe I really lack the chemistry....

Went to NYC for training. It was really great spending more time in the big apple. Cold as it was, I could feel the lure of the city with its big lights and buzz. Managed to catch up with 2 frens and walk the streets a little. It was fun time.

Then of course.... the grand end to the year with the trip to Canada. Made one new friend and got to know another much better. Thanks to the great efforts of the dodo one... it was such a blast....

Couldnt have wished for a better end to the year with any other groups of people.

Thank God for friends.

Now I want to start the year with a greater conviction to know God more.... read more of his words....

Starting from today, I will work my darnest to stick to the Bible Reading plan that I planted on the notice board on my desk... time to start... updates to come...

Happening flights combination

2007-12-21T16:23:00.000-08:00

I am currently waiting to get on the flight from NYC to buffalo, NY… near Niagara falls. It will be the start of our trip to Canada. The most happening thing about the start is… there were be 9 of us, taking 6 different routes into buffalo, on a total of 14 different planes!!!!!

1) I am in NYC, taking southwest from Long Island airport to Baltimore, then to Buffalo.
2) Zhiying is going to be on the NWA flight from Houston, with 2 transfers to Buffalo.
3) Chris and Peiwen is doing SQ and United using the route SIN-Newark-Washington DC-BUF
4) Tim and Sharon is doing United from IAH-CHI-Toronto
5) ZW and Celia is doing United too… same route, but different flights.
6) Yaohan is getting there somehow. I believe Austin to somewhere then to Toronto.

What a happening start!!!

There’s one more hour to go, and I don’t even know what to do.

How it works in America....my brush with Continental airlines

2007-12-12T20:14:00.000-08:00

I am catching on this blogging frenzy....

Anyway... here goes...

I was supposed to travel to Tulsa, Oklahoma on Monday from San Francisco. I originally purchased the return air ticket from Houston to SF, but when I know that I will be attending a training there, I made a change to the return flight from SFO to TUL. With the change, I was charged a $100 change fee, which is the norm.

As a result of extreme weather, the connecting flight from Houston to Tulsa was cancelled on Monday. Hence I was unable to make the meeting.

Since the airline cancelled the flight from IAH to Tulsa, which I paid $100 plus differences in fare for, I requested that they refund that additional payment I made back to me.

I talked to this person who claimed to be a Manager, and she told me that there was no policy. Having spent close to $5k for the previous 2 months, I thought they will sell me a little goodwill, and return that meagre sum of money to me. It appears reasonable to me to request for a refund.... but i was not hoping for too much.

The thing that boils me was that when I told her that there are other organizations that would easily have done something for me... and I cancel my existing reservations with Continental and try look for another airline that offers more for their customers. She immediately accused me of threatening the airline, and I quote "We do not tolerate threats like that. I will go ahead and cancel your reservations and mark you out. We do not need customers like you."

While my intentions were to push her further, it certainly wasnt communicated as a threat. If there's a better deal somewhere, it is only right for me to go for it.

After tens of minutes of talking about it... she refuse to bulge.... so I wrote a letter of feedback as below:

Message: I am refering to confirmation number DXXXX.

I originally had a flight from SFO to IAH. I made a change, and paid a $100 change fee plus the difference in fare, to change the flight to SFO-IAH-TUL.

Due to the weather in Tulsa, I was unable to get into Tulsa before my meeting at 9am on 12/11 as the flight that I was scheduled on was cancelled.

I called and talked to Mrs XXX, a manager from the customer care department, and requested for her to look at my situation. I made an additional payment of $100 plus difference in fare in order to get to Tulsa. Since the flight was cancelled, I requested that I be put back to my original position.

Mrs XXXexplained that Continental policy is such that the additional payment cannot be refunded in this situation. When I requested that she look at my customer profile, and note that I have been travelling on Continental extensively over the past 3 months, and have been providing good value to the company, and asked if she could make an exception. She explained that Continental do not make exceptions for customers despite their travelling profile.

When I told her that if Continental is unable to make exceptions for regular customers, I intent to bring my business to another airline that does that. I wanted to communicate clearly to her that there are companies that are willing to go the extra mile for customers that bring good value to a company, and if Continental do not value me as one, I am willing to look for others that do.

She then went on to threaten me that she will put a note on my account, and Continental do not want me as a customer. At my request, she also cancelled my air travel to New York City for the airfare of $1,090.

I am hugely disappointed with the incident on several fronts.

Firstly, I am disappointed at the lack of flexibility of Continental employee. I requested that she consider my records and noted that I have spent a reasonable amount in the range of $5000 for the past 2 months at Continental. And to lose a customer like that for a $100 does not make good business sense to me.

Secondly, I am disappointed at the threat that Mrs Davids made regarding marking me out and the airline not wanting me as a customer. It shocks me to know how little I am valued as a customer despite giving value to the company, I could be struck off and marked as a bad customer for $100.

Thirdly, I communicated clearly my thoughts on Mrs Davids' willingness to make exceptions for me, and that I will consider giving the business to other airlines. Mrs Davids raised her voice and accused me of threatening the company. I am appalled at the lack of understanding of your representatives. I chose to communicate openly to your representative rather than leaving as a grudged customer. In return, I was accused of threatening at least 15 times by Mrs Davids. That made me feel totally uncomfortable as a customer.

As I have promised, I will bring my business to other airlines as much as I could. I regret this action, but feel it is necessary given the shabby treatment I received from Mrs Davids.

And within the day, a reply came:

Dear Mr. Neo:

Thank you for contacting us. The behavior you describe as exhibited by the Customer Care manager you spoke with is not indicative of the service we provide, and I sincerely apologize for the negative impression their actions have created. Our staff is expected to provide courteous, professional service and I regret this is not what you experienced. There is never an excuse for rude behavior.

I understand your frustration when your travel plans were disrupted due to the severe winter weather conditions in Oklahoma. All of our flights to Tulsa cancelled on December 10 due to the icy conditions. As a gesture of goodwill and due to your Silver Elite OnePass status, I have authorized our Customer Refund Services to credit your MasterCard for the $100 reissue fee charged for the change to your ticket.

Mr. Neo, thank you for including Continental in your travel plans. I hope this will not deter you from traveling with us again in the future. Given the privilege of welcoming you onboard again soon I am confident we will show you the quality serivce you deserve and have come to expect from us.

Regards,
XXXX XXX
Corporate Customer Care Manager
Continental Airlines

The point I am trying to prove is not that you can get your way all the time when you complain. I wasnt expecting to get the $100 back, but I was not ready for any rude treatments from any customer service personnel.

Another thing I am trying to put accross is that, if you are willing to give feedbacks, there may be someone who will listens. And with this reply that I received from Continental, it makes me want to do business with them even more.

It is a good ending to a potentially sad episode.

Alaskan photos...... full installments

2007-12-12T18:05:00.000-08:00

Last installment of the photos taken in my trip to Alaska.
Part 3: share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0BaNmbNy4bsXhg

I hope after seeing these pictures, it will inspire you to go there too! Ask me for more details! haha.

Previously shared:
Part 2: share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0BaNmbNy4bsXPQ
Part 1: share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0BaNmbNy4bsXSg

A brief update for record sake

2007-12-12T02:58:00.000-08:00

Between my updates in Nov and Sept, there are a couple of things that happened that I believe are noteworthy.

1) The trip home.

This trip home has been a great one, as usual. Where my last trip home, my focus was on food and friends. I was so bent on getting as much, both quantity and quality, down my throat that I felt so bloated for most of the 10 days I was in Singapore (my dearie can testify to that). This time round, I guess we have settled into Houston so well, I did not have the urge to gorge every local delicacies that was within my sight. It felt good.

Last year, I was also focused on meeting as many friends as I could. This time round, I went with the attitude of.... everyone is busy, and I may not be high on their priority list. Unlike many who returns home from abroad, I did not try to pack my schedules with meeting up different friends well before I return. I told whoever that asked that I will be back, and if someone wanted to make an effort to meet me, I gladly set aside time for them. For others who were busy (most people are, I know), I would meet up if they are able to find time in their schedule.

My main focus this year has been my family, and I am glad I made this decision. My brother's wedding was on the 2nd weekend that I was back. It was a joyous occassion.... I got to meet up with many of my relatives whom I wanted to meet the previous time, but was unable. I got to talk to my dad and mum more. I felt bad not being there for everyone while I was away, to show my care and concern. So during the 16 days that I was back home, I was trying to do as much as I could in terms of offering help at home. It was real quality time that I spent with my family. And of course, I saw my niece (not through the internet) for the first time. She's so cute! I love her..... and really wanted to do more as an uncle who was never around. Attaching a picture to show what I am talking about.

2) Work
As some of you may know, I moved to a new group within the firm, Transaction Advisory Services. It has been a great change for me. I am happy to be learning something new after 4 years in audit.

My first 2 months in the group epitomises the way the group operates, in terms of intensity. For the 1st 2 weeks before I went on vacation, I was waiting on the bench, with nothing available. Then I got on a project and we had a slow start. And before I got into the thick of things, I went off on my vacation.

When I returned, I found out that I have missed the fun of grinding out work, and clocking the hours. I was put on another project, and we were putting in some good hours. In fact, I was just telling some people, it is like a training for me before I go back to Singapore. haha!

During the 4th week, we worked till 1am and 2am..... for consecutive days, which is unheard of in my audit life here. But all is good, I like the work I am doing, and I do not mind being worked hard.

Oh... and yes.. .I am loboing right now again.

3) NFL
Recently, I have caught the craze about the national sports of the Americans, FOOTBALL (or better known as American Football). Being in a sea of Americans in my group makes me want to take effort to be inclusive.... rather... to be included. Being an avid sports fan, I already followed a number of different American sports. NFL has been something that I always wanted to know more, but yet, due to various reasons, was unable to.

This year, for whatever reasons, I was able to get to know the game more, beyond the "move 10 yards in 4 plays". I was able to understand a little more about the tactics, and some calls....

So I decided to jio my dearie to watch a game. And looking at the calendar, the only game that she is able to make would be the game against the New Orleans Saints, on Nov 18, Sunday. We were in New Orleans during the last New Year's day, and knew how fierce the support was for the Saints in New Orleans. We knew it was going to be a great game... sold out as usual.

When I looked on craig's list, the tickets were going for in excess of $100 each. While it was a little steep, we were willing to take the plunge when the right price comes along. On Friday, two days before the game, I saw on Craig's list that a pair was going for $140. I sent the chap an email, and within hours, got a response from him.

Chap: "Hey, are you interested in the tickets?"
Me: "Yeah! You still have them?"
Chap: "Yes I do. Wait a minute, I need to ask you a question, Are you a saints fan?"
Me: "I live in Houston, so I support the Texans of course!"
Chap: "You sure you are not a saints fan? I will only sell the ticket to you if u are not a saints fan."
Me: "Deal."

As it turned out, there are alot of Saints fan living in Houston. Games with the saints have always been big due to the close proximity of the two cities (only 5 hours drive away), and the fact that many people from New Orleans still live in Houston. And for the chap was a huge Texans fan. He told me that during the entire week, Saints fans were the only ones enquiring about the tickets, and he wasnt about to sell them to his rival fans!

We went for the game slightly after noon, and we already missed a TOUCH DOWN by the Texans! We knew it is going to be a great game.

As it turned out, the Texans had one of their best games ever, and beat the Saints in a close battle till late in the 4th quarter. And Houston's number 1 draft, Mario Williams, had one of his better games against Saints' Reggie Bush, the guy whom they were supposed to draft.

I truly could understand the passion Americans have for this great sports. The excitement of each play, the fast motion, the tactics, the anticipation with each play is just phenomenal. Many times I found myself jumping out of excitement for my home team. It was a great great game.

We both thoroughly enjoyed the game. And once I got back, I jioed Sharon and Tim to get tickets for the next home game that I was available to watch.... Texans vs Broncos... Dec 13, Thursday..... We are still in with a shout for the playoffs.... I hope I will watch another classic battle in Reliant Stadium tomorrow night.

That's it for now.... already 622am. I fell asleep at 1030pm, and woke up at 5am, hence the blog.

Lake Tahooe ho ho

2007-12-10T22:09:00.000-08:00

The past weekend was really great. I went to look for my dearie in San Francisco, my favourite city, on Friday, and we rode with Yuyuan to Lake Tahoe for the weekend.

I took the earliest flight to SF, and spent the day walking the streets.... how I love SF.

I have always been a fan of places with snow (as a visitor of course), and this trip to Tahoe further confirmed that.

It really filled me with awe, at the sight of a place completely convered white with fresh snow. Even in the dark, I was admiring the great views outside, the little that I could see. This has been one great blessing from God. All the way till 3 days before (Tuesday), there hasnt been any snow, and all these that we see, were actually greens. Not that it's any worse (i actually think it is, but anyway..), we would have to snowboard on man made snow, which besides the lack of visual enjoyment, would not have been as fun to (hearsay). Thank GOD!

We had an interesting first day learning how to snowboard at the Heavenly Resort (yes, the name). A very comprehensive and good lesson at a really high price ($140). We were working on our forward "falling leaves" for the remainder of the day.The slope wasnt exactly great, but we hung around till close to its close. The weather was bad, as the snow fall from the previous two days has continued. It took so much out of me, and I was completely and utterly exhausted at the end of the day.

It was concluded that, due to the late snowfall resulting in the many nicer slopes not being opened, there werent any good slopes for beginners like us to enjoy the process. And to be completely honest, I missed the Skis, which was much less tiring, and something i have a little more confidence with.

Yuyuan decided that we should try another resort, which he feels that will allow us to enjoy the snowboarding more. Little did we know, it turned out to be the perfect day.

We started the morning(waking up at 7am... getting training for the trip with Tim) to beautiful Heavenly resort (as the name suggest). Went around taking some great pictures, honing my photo taking skills. It wasnt exactly a big resort, so we took off earlier than we planned at 930am.

It was followed with a superb drive to our destination. Due to the fresh snowfall over the previous 3 days (ok I forgot to mention that Sunday was a perfectly warm day!), everything looked great! The trees were covered with snow, but yet the roads were cleared of them, due to the sun coming out. Everywhere you turn, you feel that is a photo worthy moment. Each turn the car made, we were fed with an awesome sight. All in all, it is one of those trips that you dont want to end.

We stopped at one of the boat launch area into the lake. And took some great pictures again. It is a really great place!

After about an hour's drive, we reached North Star at Tahoe. A less touristy resort, but great ski place and beautiful too nonetheless. We were planning to purchase a half day life, and a half day rental at the resort. A first look at the price board, $35 for half day ticket, and about $40 for the rental. $80 bugs... much cheaper than the $140 we paid the day before. Looks good already.

So we stepped up and talked to the lady at the counter.

Lady: "Hi, are you all first timers, we have a promotion today?"

ME: "Sure, we are first timers, what's the promotion?"

Lady: "We have a first timers promotion price of $25 for the ski lessons."

Me: "You mean just the lesssons? How much does the ski lift and rental equipment cost?"

Lady: "It includes the lift ticket and rental equipment."

Me (in disbelief): "I mean after the lesson, we would like to try the green slopes, and also have the equipment. How much would the lift ticket cost if we want to try the green slopes after the lesson?"

Lady: "They are included in the price."

Me: "You mean we can try all the green slopes?!?!?!?!? How about the equipment? Does the price include the equipment as well?"

Lady: "Yes, you can have the equipment till the end of the day."

Me (in absolute and total disbelief): "You mean if we pay $25 each, we get the lesson, the ski lift to all the green slopes and the snowboard with boots... for the rest of the day?"

Lady: "Yes."

What a powerful 3 letters.... that totally threw the accountant in me off... how does that work out? The rental of the equipment itself is already more than $25.

Me: "We will do that." (Still extremely skeptical... expecting some additional cost to come up.)

We fitted into our equipments, and stepped out. NO EXTRA CHARGE!!! IMPOSSIBLE!

Then we were thinking... maybe the slope that we will be allowed on is going to be lousy. Little did we know, the "good green slope" that yuyuan told us about, was available. We hopped on it together. And Yuyuan patiently taught us a few tricks and some basic skills.

We stopped for lunch, and continued back on the lift thereafter. After being totally beat up since i was only working on one set of muscles with my forward falling leaf, i decided to take a leap of faith, and do the backward falling leaf. It turned out to be easier than it seems, and definitely gave my set of overworked muscles much relief. I learnt to turn around, and took some spectacular fall on the hard surface.... Now... I am finally enjoying it.

After 4 good runs, I am feeling good about Canada, and the blue slopes. Alot of my basic skills have to be worked on, but I am finally able to enjoy the snowboarding that everyone was raving about. It was indeed a great afternoon. Oh yes, I forgot to mention that the sun was out there working the whole time. At one stage we were even feeling warm with our thick layers of clothes. It was indeed indeed a great day!

We literally stayed till the lift stopped moving, and worked the final few $$ of our 25 well spent bugs. And at 5 plus, we hopped on Yuyuan's RAV4, back to San Francisco. We stopped by Chilli's for a really sumptous dinner (seldom do I praise Chilli's).

And the day ended even better for me, who is not due for work the following day..... as a great night of rest awaits.

Thank God for this perfect day. I am glad I blog this.

Alaskan photos.... part 2

2007-12-05T18:11:00.000-08:00

Part 2: share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0BaNmbNy4bsXPQ

It's been a long time coming, and it is here finally.

previously shared Part 1: share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0BaNmbNy4bsXSg

also, a clip of this little black cub that we saw that was feeding by the side of the road.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjXo1oKNB4A

Trip to Cancun, Mexico

2007-11-29T22:27:00.000-08:00

Finally time for a grand update of what has happened in the past months.

The reason why I am doing this is because I am free from my exams for the fifth time!! That’s actually one time too many…. Because I freaking failed my Regulation part… how can a singaporean fail this ang moh exam… beats me too… literally..

A lot to say…. So it’s about getting as much in as possible, rather than organizing them in an orderly manner.

First up... Cancun Mexico.

Just came back from Cancun, Mexico… really beautiful place. Highly recommended if you are in the US… but if you need to fly in from Europe or Asia… I am sure u can spend your money on a place nearer… like Maldives and Mauritius.

I went there with Zhiying over the thanksgiving holidays. From Wednesday till Saturday night (then spent one night in scary Mexico(pronounced Meh Hi Co) City.) We stayed in The Westin (regina), which is a wonderful hotel. I have never seen so many deck chairs facing the beach… and so organized….. facing the wonderful looking water. It was written beach resort all over….

In that short few days, we went swimming, parasailing, snorkeling in Cozumel, and just plain chilling by the beach.

The waves were really killers… they were coming in fiercely, pounding on the beach. On the first day, I had lots of fun trying to beat the waves, but after being thrown onto the sea bed a couple of times, I was totally exhausted. It’s hard to describe the kind of fun. It’s the adrenaline rush when you beat the wave when it comes in. But once I missed the beat, and took a beating by consecutive waves… that knocked the wind out of me… and I had to return to my deck chair after I think less than 20 mins.

We went parasailing too, which was ok. On the 3rd day, we went on a snorkeling trip to Cozumel. It was good to finally see this place that has been mentioned on all Caribbean cruises. The island is a decent island to be on. The snorkeling wasn’t great…. But it was still an interesting experience going there.

The 3rd day was our check out day. It started brilliantly with Man utd losing to Bolton and Liverpool destroying Newcastle. We basically checked out of the hotel, and spent the rest of the day lying by the pool/beach side. It was really relaxing. There was an anxious moment when someone actually almost drowned in the sea. Like all drama series, it ended with the person being revived… and sent to the hospital…. Which is good…

We stopped over at Mexico City, for a brief night. Our plan the next day was at 930am. So Zing suggested we take the 7am shuttle(the shuttle leaves on the hour), which will get us to the airport at 720am. Uncharacteristically, I suggested we take the 8am shuttle (must have mixed too much with two guys who like to cut it close).

Being rather submissive (or did she just wanted to prove me wrong)….. she agreed. We got up the next day, and hopped on the 8am shuttle. As fate would play it… we were dropped off a fair distance away… (that idiot drive must have thought we wouldn’t give him tips). We got to the airport at about 825am, which is slight over an hour from our departure time.

When we got to the Aeromexico check in counters, it was PACKED… we tried to wave our Elite status… but it was to no avail. Then we told them that we are not checking in bags… it didn’t help too. We need to GET IN LINE….

Fortunately, we found a “depart soon” line. We were waiting in line, and before we know it… a crowd of 3 to 4 couples rushed past us into the counter. The Singaporean instinct in us immediately responded by “chopping” a place between the 3rd and 4th couple. When the Aeromexican personnel asked “HOUSTON?”… ALL OF US in line shot up our hands earnestly. (Haiz… everyone in the same boat)

During this time, I could see that the blood boiling in my dearie… she finally asked me politely… : “Wo ke yi ma ni ma?(Can I scold you??)” Of course I granted that reasonable request. She said a few choice words politely… and we went back to our business of trying to get a boarding pass issued.

Like all stories, this one came to a good ending. We got our boarding pass issued and got on the flight well ahead of time.

This year...

2007-09-27T00:16:00.000-07:00

It's been another year ... as one grows older... every year suddenly has greater importance.

I remember when I was really young (not too long ago) I would always look forward to another year.... hoping for something in the coming year... looking forward to something new...

With the passing of time (and increase in age), the looking forward act is usually accompanied with a turning around glance... an act to see how fruitful the year has been.... a time to count my blessings from God.

Going home is like Chinese New Year to me.... it's so exciting to meet my friends and family... I really miss my family.... so to be back to see them... it has become such a privilege.

This year... I became an Uncle, without fulfilling the role of one... this year... my parents grew older... this year... I miss them even more... this year... I am blessed more by God.

This year.. I moved to a different job, and am blessed with people whom I enjoy working with (so far)... this year... I get to learn something new on my job.

This year... my relationship with God was not so consistent... I really need to work on that.

This year, I am 29.

I was just thinking to myself, as I walk towards the big 3... Life would be really pretty meaningless for me, if I didnt have God....

Grew up studying and had lotsa fun along the way... made great friends.., then start to earn money.... then try to travel alot... to "gain in life"..... then get married... then try to be a good parent to raise up my kids... then when I hit 50s... i am considered old and pretty useless... and it's like life is just about waiting for time to pass and finally die and go to dunno where... I literally had that sad thoughts a few days ago...

Then I realized... thank God... I have God... I live my life learning about Him... (try as I might)... live my life finally opportunities to tell people about him... (i need to work harder on that- walk across the room)... I help the poor and he sees it... i care for others and He notices....

I tell people about God, so people who receive Him will be filled with a purpose in life....

And finally... when the time come for me to leave this world... I do not go into "nothingness", but I go to heaven... where God is... where everything good is...

It is so wonderful....

230am now.... flight at 740.... leaving at 430am. wooohoo!

Thank God!

Home home home...

2007-09-27T00:05:00.000-07:00

Last time I did this... one year ago...

Feeling... still very excited to be home... Really cant wait to see my parents and family and friends (friends less)... haha.

Singapore... I miss you!

An interesting encounter

2007-09-08T00:46:00.001-07:00

From then till now…

From the last time I updated my blog, I have been out of town to Richmond in Virginia, San Francisco and Sacramento in California on job. It was a really simple assignment, thanks to divine intervention, which allows me plenty of time to prepare for the last part of my CPA.

I took the last part at the end of August, squeezing in another florida trip to join the dodos… it was a really good month…

The activity filled month was top off with a trip to lovely Boston. Before the trip, there was a little argument with my love… and it carried on till the start of the trip, but was duly resolved in the parking lot in Boston Logan Airport’s Avis Center. Haha.

Small arguments are good for the relationships I think. No two people are the same, and each time, with the help of God, we build a bridge towards each other. It is really important for us to continue to focus on God and the relationship, and not let any distractions get in the way. Many a time, arguments are due to miscommunications, which is the case again this time.

I am glad we did not give up on resolving the differences and clearing any miscommunications. Thank God that we live to fight another day…. I think we should pray more together…. Not a habit now, but certainly can work more on it. Prayer works…

One other thing worth mentioning about my trip is that I lost my wallet. How careless…. It’s one of those things that you remember you had it at one stage, but somehow the memory of this thing blurred when it passed through a certain passage in time… life sucks… but thankfully, I only lost $100++ (would have been more I think if I were in Singapore)

The cards were easily replaced… talking about replacing the cards, I have to rattle on a little about this interesting Citi guy… kind of a long story…Here goes

Me: “Hi, I would like to report my card as lost. Can you please send me a replacement card.”
Customer Service Rep (CSR) (Who happens to be an Indian from India… not disrespect… just a matter of fact):
“Sir, I need to verify a few questions with you… What is your mailing address…”

After like 6 questions of where I live, my social, my this and my that… which I answered with much patience and willingness (I wanted to get this over with as well)…. This fine Indian Gentleman shocked me with this question.
“Sir, can you please tell me the purchase of $25.75 that you made on Aug 25 (4 or 5 days ago) was paid to which merchant?”

I was shocked… how can anyone ask something like that… Esp here in the US, credit card use is so common… I probably paid for a coffee using my credit card…. Also, I am one of those pple with literally tens of cards… how the hell would I remember that!!!!

Me: “Ajay (CSR’s name), I have no idea what it was paid for, but I am pretty sure it was made in Houston”
CSR: “Sir, that is not sufficient, I need you to tell me exactly which merchant you paid this to.”
Me (flabbergasted) “Ajay, let me put this to you… would you remember a small purchase like $23.50 that you made like 5 days ago? I mean if that is for $500 or $1k, I probably will understand”
CSR (in a typical Indian way- no disrespect, trying to force me out of my rumbling): “Sir, if you do not answer my question, the system will not allow me to proceed with your request”
WTF!!!

Me: “Ajay… are you in a customer service industry?”
CSR: “Yes”
Me: “So, listen here, I am trying to give u some feedback on your service. If you are not interested in that, maybe I can send that feedback to your supervisor instead”

I was both filled with amazement and frustration with this person….

The Indian gentleman went on to politely apologized, and blamed the misunderstanding on his poor communication skills… and he perfectly understand my frustration and how he is willing to work with me through it and he will lose his job if I speak to his supervisor etc etc….

After a long struggle… I finally got him to cancel my existing card and send a new one.

Let’s look at the process with American express:

Me: “Hi, I lost my card, and would like to cancel it and also request for a replacement”
Amex CSR: “I am sorry to hear that sir. Can I please ask a few questions for verifications.”

After 3 or 4 short and reasonable questions.

CSR: “Sir, I will overnight the new cards to you.”

Two days after reporting that my card was lost, I received the new one from Amex…. Truly the best in customer service for me…

And yes… after 7 days, shittybank’s card is still not here…

Guess who I will patronize more.

My Lunch

2007-08-01T23:04:00.000-07:00

Today (Wednesday) was another day of rest... good way of saying chao geng.

Due to some arrangements, I was able to stay at home and mug for my CPA exam.

Whenever I am studying, there will be thousands of things that will appear to be more interesting. One of which is cooking.

I am someone who is a practical cook. I cook something based on what is available. Today, there was some left over rice, and left over char siew rice. So I cut up some cabbage, and used the remaining egg... to complete my chao fan (fried rice)... To top it off, I signalled the end of my hate campaign against spring onion, by sprinkling it over my fried rice... SEDAP....

Just for your viewing pleasure... the picture taken.

Online shopping…

2007-08-01T14:19:00.001-07:00

Some of you may know that I have been regularly monitoring websites like deals2buy.com and slickdeals.net. These are two websites that shows “good” deals, and are posted on a highly regular basis.

I am recently being overtaken by the online shopping craze, so much that it amazes myself too… It brought me to recall how I used to think about online shopping… previously known as Ecommerce…

I used to think… What a stupid idea? Why would someone buy something online if they can go to the stores to feel the thing out and try it on 200 times? Also, the additional cost involved in the purchase is certainly going to turn people off. That was when I was in school in 2001 (maybe).

Fast forward to 2007… Little did I know that I will fall prey to the ease and temptation of online shopping… big time (esp the past month)

Having been here for 19 months, being in the American culture of “buy buy buy”, and the two awesome websites that we discovered…. My stand has totally change. I am now a convert.

What drives me to blog this…. ? The reason is becoz I just bought 5 A&F items online. (becoz they are CHEAPer)

This is one day after buying a Bluetooth Stereo Headset 24 hrs earlier (online), and buying 5 shirts last weekend (from a store though).

If you think I have change… I wouldn’t say it’s absolutely true… I eye something for a long time… then when the time is ripe… I strike… the only thing that makes what I say appear to be less true is the fact that the two times I strike are just too close to each other (within 24 hrs of each other).

I always wanted to buy a cheaper A&F shirt… and my interest for the Bluetooth Stereo headset steams from the fact that I am probably going to travel more frequently, and during my last trip out, my ear phone didn’t give me the best of time…

All’s set and done… I must confess that I am truly a online shopping addict.

Oh yes… if you want to join me, you can always visit the websites I mentioned.

Deals2buy.com and http://www.thedailydeals.com/

One thing to note… they usually ship to US addresses only…. Oops.

The great trip to the great land (part 1)

2007-07-18T21:16:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, I just returned from Alaska a week ago.

The rare few may also know that it has been one of my dreams to go to Alaska, having seen so much of it on TV and read quite a bit too. Finally, on June 26, 2007, it was dream come true as I set foot on the great land of the last frontier.

It was a trip with high expectations in all sense of the word, and it certainly did not disappoint. I went there expecting great things... came back extremely satisfied.

What I hope to achieve with my journal here is not to show off my photo skills, nor to boast about me having been to this great place. My main purpose is to show what this great place has to offer, and to explain the ease of travelling there, and eventually to convince people to make this trip of your life. You can do it!

There were certainly a few myths about the place, that at least I had. One of which was the difficulty of travelling. It was rather easy travelling around the main bigger cities, like the one we went to. The roads we well paved except for a small portion of gravel.

Since I have more important thing like my exam on hand, I shall not elaborate more about the trip until I have sufficient time.

I uploaded first 5 days of my trip. There are almost 200 pictures uploaded. Look at them when you are really free. (link at the bottom) More to come I promise.

A brief description of my trip:

We touched down in Anchorage, the biggest city in Alaska on Jun 26. The very next day, we took the Alaskan Railroad to Denali National Park.

The train ride from Anchorage to Denali cost about $140, and is reputed to be one of the most scenic train ride in the whole of USA (some say the world). It was indeed a trip filled with "woo" and "woah"s as the train went through several valleys and we enjoyed some superb views along the way.

After about 8 hours, we got to Denali National Park. It is million of arces in area, and is the park that surrounds Mt McKinley (aka Mount Denali), the tallest peak in North America. The one thing we came to see is Grizzly! But besides that, the big 5 are the Grizzly, Wolf, Dall Sheep, Caribou (like Reindeer) and Moose (like reindeer, but the antlers is in a big piece instead of branched out, if you get what I mean).

We saw a couple of foxes, one wolf (one of the 90 in the park), lotsa Mooses and Caribou and Dall Sheeps (usually too far to tell how they really look like).

The trip into the park was fun, and funny. Firstly, we took the 3rd earliest bus into the park, and of course, we took the bus that was going the furthers (about 150km in 11 hrs round trip). On the bus, alot of people came prepared with really powerful binoculars. And true to their actions, they were there to see the animals... none were too concerned with the beautiful scenery, or the great mountain (which apparantly appears once every 5 or 6 days or less during the summer, due to heavy clouds surrounding it). Everyone came to see the wild life.... and more specifically, everyone came to see the Grizzly!

After Denali, we took the train to Fairbanks, 2nd largest city, to get our rental car, and then embarked on one of the most amazing drive into the city of Valdez, the switzerland of America. The drive was extremely scenic (i think it could be somewhat like NZ, but I am not sure). Every turn presented a photo opportunity, behind every mountain, was another one waiting to be "wow"ED at. And there was glaciers galore.... lots to see, not enough words to describe the beauty.

That is about the first part of my trip. The rest to follow when I am bored with studying (which i expect to be soon).

http://www.imagestation.com/album/pictures.html?id=2089603337&code=29038102&mode=invite&DCMP=isc-email-AlbumInvite

Pride Parade Houston

2007-06-24T22:38:00.001-07:00

Went to PRIDE parade Houston yesterday night. (Saturday)

Quite an eye opener.

Nothing to report for now, since I am busy packing for Alaska.

But I was really glad to see Timothy taking part in the parade, and finally being able to express himself as he truly is... hope you all accept him as what he is...

Enjoy the picture...

Picture of Timothy Rodriguez... just in case of mistaken identity

Rewards of my passion

2007-06-17T01:39:00.001-07:00

Recently, my love and I went to the Northwest... Portland, Seattle... and areas around.

Of course, my love has painstakingly selected the nicer looking photos (only about 400 of them.... it speaks volume of what she thought of my photography skill... or is it the nice scenery... I choose to think it's the former)

You can see them in the link here:
http://www.imagestation.com/album/pictures.html?id=2091454865&code=28289230&mode=invite&DCMP=isc-email-AlbumInvite

Nevertheless, being less deligent, I selected some that i like more... and have them posted here on my blog.

This is Seattle.... not as romantic as it was made out to be... a city like we know.. it did leave me with a positive feeling.

Behind the ball park and the stadium, you get to see Mount Rainer... one of the amazing thing about being here... being in the city... yet being so near this majestic moutain.Mount Rainer.... isnt it so bloody cool?

A yatch club in the middle of downtown Seattle... this is what we call the "high life"

Who is stupid not to exploit the waterfront.... shops and restaurants... not overly congested... i think it was sufficiently busy."Stop looking at me!" Shouts the sea lion... I forgot to mention that topless sunbathing is prohibited on mainland USA... hence this sea lion had to be on the float. Poor thing.

One of the things being sold at the Pike fish market... fishes... Apparantly... there were about 70% of the people here to see some fish throwing...than fish selling

Yes, they did throw some fishes, when on rare ocassion, people buy fishes from them. And I caught one of those moments (pun not intended)

We also went to Mount St Helen. It was one of those days that the weather was not perfect... it was just cold and cloudy, nothing that is not typical of the northwest. We did have some wonderful views of the place though.

This is one of the lakes created after the volcanic eruption happened lately. Nice place to chill out... and..

Catch some fishes..

It's a huge place... as you can see.

We were at the elevation of about 2000 meters... obviously, some didnt think it's high enough.

We drove the scenic highway 101... and here are two pretty pictures i like.

I am never a big fan of phone cameras. In one of the 28days that I owned the treo 750, it did give me some fantastic shots. Below is one of them... of Mount Hood.

Guess the name of the lake below... Mirror lake? Good guess, that is correct.

Ok, it's 5am, and almost time to hit the deck. God keep me awake tomorrow... please.

Count your blessings... and be prepared to be amazed

2007-06-16T09:34:00.000-07:00

We passed our 3rd CPA paper..... Thank GOD!

CPA exam is a very complicated thing... it is like a double edged sword.... eating all your time and getting you depressed and stressed while sacrificing all other things when preparing for it... and giving you much joy when u passed it (nothing much else tangible... except more job opportunities)

Just a quick background. US CPA is unlike the Singapore style of "go eat buffet, get tips, and pass exam"... it involves months of preparation and failing is not an uncommon thing (amongst the Americans, not Singaporeans). There are 4 parts to it, and we must complete all within 18 months.

So far, we have completed Financials, Business Environment, and now.. Audit. Last and supposedly the hardest part is Regulation.

Back to my main topic. People tend to study so hard for it, and when they finally got it over... they feel... empty...? I think they do... it's like many things in life... a good phone, a good camera... good grades... good house... good ____ (fill in the blanks). One puts in so much effort into something... and when you get there... you feel elated... for a min? then... ironically feels empty... and hmm... lost?

I think the one thing that is missing IS.... the focus of your efforts.... when I am focusing on myself... good grades for myself... by myself... through my own efforts... using my own strengths... i think i will feel empty... i will find myself wanting something else to feel this void within me..

Thank God.... I can channel my sense of elation onto him.. I can channel my thanks to him... it does not leave me with an "empty tank" feeling... rather.. it makes me so grateful for knowing God... so happy to be blessed... Each blessing He gives me... I remember... and thank Him

Today, with the results... i count one more blessing from God... I thank Him once again... it is He who gives me this and all that is already given... and all that is going to come...

Honestly my friend, if you have that feeling that i just describe.... maybe one of these times you want to just talk to God... just ask Him... "did you give me that?" (The answer is YES.) Learn to thank Him... learn to talk to Him..

I praise Him... I give Him all the honour He deserves... I thank God....

The object of my affection

2007-06-09T22:16:00.000-07:00

As I know myself well, I am someone who is always thrilled with the wonders of technology. While I am not the most tech savvy person, I would rate myself as someone that is kind of in the middle. I love gadgets, I am totally fascinated by them, I adore many, yet... often, I dont do as well in exploring much more than it can offer. I have my O2 XDA mini, which served me so well, and completely bought me over to the dark side... (PPC Phone). I cant praise the usuability and the form of the phone enough. Besides the rare glitch due to the transciber (letter recognition), it has been one of my favourite piece of technology.

One month ago, due to some fantastic deal, I managed to get a Treo 750 for US$100++. The fact is I paid $35 for activation, and about $20+ for tax, so it was effectively a US$150 phone (not including the risk of the $100 rebate not coming back). This Treo was much hyped about, and did not disappoint.

However, it was not meant to be... I "test drived" it for almost a month and decided that I much prefer a bigger screen which it does not have. I also thought wifi would be useful when I bring the phone back to Singapore (the data plan here is cheap and really good- so i wont have to use much wifi here). With a heavy heart, I returned the Treo to the store... (YES... Returned without questions within 30 days... welcome to the United States of America)

This is also fueled by the opportunity of getting a phone that is similar to my O2 (called Cingular 8525- aka Dopod 838 Pro) on this website called AT&T Premier. Somehow, they have an amazing deal which allows you to get both phones for FREE!!! (Singapore is selling with 2 years plan for S$940!!)

It gives us 21% off plans and 25% off accessories... and the ultimate best part... ELEVEN MONTH CONTRACT!!! What a God-send!!!

Sorry... coming to my main point. Of course, I got the phone last week on Monday. And from then till now, I have spend like 60% of my time playing with the phone, exploring it, full utilising all the functions which are practical and useful.

I installed quite a number of programs, and a few hacks.

I also bought quite a few accessories thusfar:

1) GPS Receiver

2) Car charger

3) Car charger with dual outlet

4) A 3-way adaptor for the car charger and for the audio jack (the phone uses a different audio jack)

5) An Iriver FM Transmitter to allow me to listen music on my car system from the phone (complicated?)

6) 2gb Micro SD card

7) A metal case (coming)

Some of the things it does:

1) When I am at the airport without internet connection, it allows me to connect my laptop through my phone, to the internet. I tried it, it works really well! It can be through a USB connection... or even blue tooth!

2) Read maps. I can get on Microsoft Live Search to search for addresses, restaurant, shops... and best of all... check live traffic.

3) Read my bible

4) Act as a webcam

5) Save all my passwords and info

6) MSN

7) Skype- I can call home even when I am not in Houston.

8) Listen to music (one of the least used functions I am sure)

9) Voice command. When you are driving, and you need to call someone, the voice command works really well! I have all the dodos' names saved... so in future, calling y'all will be easy... lucky you!

All in all, this is such an amazing phone... besides the chunky side, which doesnt affect me too much, it is almost a do-all phone. I love it love it love it....

The "good feeling"

2007-05-29T23:29:00.000-07:00

After going through life for 29 years, and counting, I do realize that my life often goes through periods of peaks and troughs. At times, I feel low on confidence, sometimes I don’t really notice how I feel in that respect, and other times, I have this “good feeling”.

I learnt not to dwell on bad times, knowing that it will past, and when the “good feelings” come… capture it, and try to keep that as a form of motivation.

The past week is a time when I had the “good feeling”, and it somehow had a positive influence on the way things turned out (more of how we looked at it).

It started last week after my CPA exam on Monday, for the audit paper. I somehow felt that I didn’t prepare too well. It’s the sort of feeling that “you could have done more”. As always, there were tons of distractions when one is studying. I bought a new phone, got a GPS program with all the maps, and finally, bought a Bluetooth GPS receiver. All these while I was supposed to be having “time off” from my work (due to reduced workload) for the preparation of my exam.

What a good use of time… haha.

During the preparation, I was also troubled by the fact that I wasn’t feeling too good about my previous paper, BEC.

The paper wasn’t too tough, hence it gave us a pretty good feeling. After the paper, we rushed home from San Antonio, for the season finale of 24… 2-hour special… usually known as the Jack Bauer Power Hour (in this case, hourS). By God’s grace... we reached home at 6.58pm, 2 minutes before the famous “dee, dee, dee”… adding on to the good feeling.

At night, we were doing our laundry, and I realized that my proof of attendance for my CPA exam went into washing machine. I logged on to the internet to see if I could check that my attendance is recorded. To my surprise (pleasant one), I saw my score for BEC… I PASSED! Despite the fact that this is reputed to be the easiest of all papers, the news was like a weigh off my shoulder. The “good feeling” triples within a day…

It has been a good start to my vacation… Thank God!

Voices from my heart

2007-05-10T20:10:00.000-07:00

Was browsing some photo gallery on pbase... some amazing photos there... how i wish I can take pictures like many of those people...

Then chanced upon one of those geniuses who writes about his photos.... it inspired me to write something... before i lose that... two to share

When life’s a rush
Try to Slow down

When you have a dream
Make that a reality

When you have someone you miss
Tell them you love them

When you have nothing to do
Write them a poem

It's raining right now... Thunder storm warning in fact... thought I can use that to write something simple:

The rain drops fall, outside the door

The wind blows, the air is cold

The thunder roar, louder than wen's snore (barely)

The lightning flashes, right before my eyes

All of God’s wonders, happening tonight.

Houston Game 7- Pre game

2007-05-08T12:07:00.000-07:00

It was a Saturday, it was game 7…. It is something we dreamt about years ago… in the comfort of our living room… WATCHING AN NBA GAME 7…. LIVE!!!!

Before that day… a conversation was struck between an avid basketball fan and a dodo..

Scene 1
“Hey, Houston might go to game 7, considering how sucky they are, despite leading 2-0… they lost two away games and are now just leading by 3-2, heading back to Utah”

“Really? Houston Heats?”

“No lah, it’s Houston Rock F******* KETS, not the Maimi heats”

“Really, is there such a team? Are they based in Dallas?”

“NO, they are based in Austin… why would a Houstonian team be based in Dallas…? Austin is the state capital… of course based there lah!”

Anyway… that is irrelevant and fictitious.

The real conversation…

Me: “Hey Tim, there’s a possibility of Game 7 in Houston, onz bo?”

Tim: “Onz lah, I got $50k in my bank, is that enough for a ticket?”

Me: “Barely, but should be”

Tim: “Onz loh”

Me: “I am thinking of the $75 ticket… since this game will be super… let’s whack a bit lah”

Evil voice: “Orh…. Ask you watch musical, then GKN, but watch basketball then spend so much money”

*evil voice conveniently ignored*

Me: “Let’s hope Rockets do what they do best… lose to a lousy team”

Session adjourned

Scene two

After game 6, which the Rockets amazing lost despite the opponent not playing well.

Me: “Wah… really vomit blood ah… Houston indeed sucks... Utah tried to throw the game away… but apparently… the bookie betting on Utah paid the Rockets so much more kelong money that they went one better and lost the game..”

Tim: “Wah… happy siah… can watch game 7 liao”

Me: “Onz liao, let’s buy the tickets when it goes on sale”

Scene 3

On the Friday before the game, when the tickets were on sale at 10am.

Me: “Wah, only $250 tickets available… and it’s for single seating! Cannot watching liao”

*ten minutes later

Tim: “Eh, I found some tickets… the seating is for $40, but the person say since I am such a nice dodo, he give me discount… no convenience charge for me (convenience charge is a stupid charge of like $6 for each ticket when you buy online… stupid charge)… so it’s $285 for 4…”

ME: “Wah… that will seriously clear my bank… but let’s do it anyway.”

Here we are… on the biggest basketball game of our life…..as least the biggest live game.

To be continued…

Two of those moments

2007-04-30T12:06:00.000-07:00

Two very enjoyable moments that were noteworthy happened last week.

1) It was Saturday morning, my dearie was awoken by the noise that was generated from my computer due to the soccer match that was going on… I told her I was heading to work, and was watching soccer… (which was like any regular conversation we have)

Then her responses thrilled me…. Not one.. but two…

Zing: “What are you doing?”
Me: “Watching soccer, but going to work.”
Zing: “Watching soccer? Did Liverpool win?”
Me: “Yes they did” (So sweet)
Zing: “Did Man Utd lose?”

That was literally a LOL moment… what a dearie I have…

And just for record sake… my reply was: “Not yet, but I hope they will”… and of coz, they did draw a winnable game… too bad chelski did not capitalize.. which is now all academic

2) It was champions’ league night in Europe and Singapore… but it took place too early in the afternoon. Liverpool was taking on Chelski at Stamford Bridge.

And when CKW and CKT kept willing me to go watch the game with the “HOW CAN YOU MISS THE GAME???!?!?!” kinda tone…. I thought about it seriously… and decided that responsibilities comes before my interests… so I decided to give the game a miss… so I thought..

On that fateful day (which happens to be a Wednesday), I went to work as usual. At about 10am, half of the building’s power went out, and as a result, the Internet too. I was thinking… “Darn… I should have stayed at home, now I can’t even check gamecast”… Little did I know… God’s plan is always miraculous… they lifts you up by bringing you down first, and if you trust him enough, he will finally bring you around…

And he did… when we got back from lunch at 1pm, the whole building went dark! And what was to follow was simply amazing… the client’s laptop went dead, and all powers are out… the CFO told everyone to GO HOME!!! How can that ever happen in my life?!?!?! I am getting out… if not going home

The first black out in a long time yielded something fruitful… thank God! My staff was saying, “we have to go back to the office”… then I told her.. “I actually plan to work from home” since there’s “no difference” between the two….

This incident is indeed God-send…. And I got to go back to watch my favorite game… of coz, when my manager heard that, he was none too please… but hell… since this opportunity is God send I should go with it… That only mean that I had to work a little late at home that night. Which suits me too…What a day…

Thank God for the year

2007-04-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

One more year has passed... it's the time of the year to count one's blessings...

What has gone... what lies ahead... what has changed in the last 365 days?

While I should be mugging away for my auditing paper, scheduled to be taken in one month's time, I thought I should stop for a moment, and thank God for making that day 29 years ago.

If he had not created that day, this certain someone would not have existed to bring joy to so many people.... haha.

I made a wish... and the first thing that come to my mind is... my parents... and my special someone. It has been an amazing change of mindset as opposed to 365 days ago.

Back then, I would not dare entertain the thought of spending my life with one person. 12 months later... i know I would not entertain any thoughts of not living with this one person. On many of my trips back from work.... about 25 miles... 40km... usually 25 mins... I always think of my parents. I want to spend so much time with them when i get back, I want to bring them to so many places when I can, and I want to tell them I love them, shower my care, concern, and my love for them.... and let them know that my heart always think of them.

It's amazing that slightly more than a year ago, I would not have even comtemplated going on too many vacations with them. When they asked if they could join me for my backpacking trips, I always thought I need to visit these other places that they are not interested in. I never thought of bringing them to places where they want to go to.

Dont get me wrong, then, I was close to my parents.... but never the "let's go for vacations together" kind of close... It is simply an amazing ability of God to make us closer to someone when we are in actual fact further....

This year has been a fruitful year like many others... my relationship with my special someone has grown... we both agree that the growth is pretty substantial, and very positive... work wise... it has been fruitful too... many things learnt... bonds established.. friendship formed.. complains made... it's one of those years when you look back and see... and conclude... it was indeed a good year...

Visited some nice places... other not so enjoyable ones... it all adds up... Thank God things fell in place the way they did. I would not have changed any one thing that has happened even if i were to turn back the clock.. i speak that with a tiny bit of doubt... maybe i have not thought hard enough... but at the very least... i am happy with the bulk of things that happened.

One thing that I can certainly improve... will be to re-connect with God... it is He who gives me strength... it is He who helps me wake up each morning... loving the fact that the day is here... experiencing each minute of it... despite the ups and downs... know that God is there...

Happy Birthday

2007-04-11T22:21:00.000-07:00

Just some random thoughts when I saw a posting about a dodo's birthday...

I have a somewhat unique view on the uniqueness of myself as an individual... while I lay secured in the fact that God created us different from others, and very much an unique person... I somehow have a less than usual way of viewing my own birthdays...

It led me to recall my growing up process, and how I grew up thinking that I am so unique, and the day that I was born is so special, surely the most special day of the year... this is of course not helped by the constant celebration of mediocrity by our parents and relatives around us... "Wah, Ah Jin is so good at XXXX" when now I realized... it's not as true as I wished it is... haha

Not to be mistaken, I do like my birthday... Deep down, I always feel special about myself that day... but I shun away from the happy birthday greetings... I do not enjoy being in the spotlight... especially when someone announces my birthday to a crowd... I like it to be privately special... It's hard to explain... while I feel special about myself... I feel awkward when people want to celebrate that with me... I never feel easy being the "focus" of people's attention.. except my dearest of course...

I dont like the thought of people needing to spend additional efforts thinking of a gift for me... or planning a celebration... while I very much appreciate the kind gestures... the thought of people "wasting" time doing something to make me feel special (not like I dont feel special about myself already) on that day... it's just a case of... sincerely appreciate the thoughts...Thanks... but no thanks.

The most ridiculous birthday that I had was my 18th birthday... I actually forgot that it was my birthday on that day and went about the day like all other day. Of course.. I kept it toned down by not telling anyone that it is my birthday any time before... And when people start to discuss that topic, i will carefully and, usually, skillfully skirt the topic.

On that fateful day... I remember it was on a Wednesday... I had ECA that afternoon.... It was only at about 4pm, when someone actually asked me about the date that day.... and I said... "I think it's 19 April"... then the person corrected me... and said.. "no lah, it's actually... ".

At that point, I felt kind of silly, and funny... that I spent the full day without realizing it's my birthday... Ironically... I think my Dad or Mum bought me a cake when I got home... It's really nice...

Sometimes birthday is like a check point...it's just time to take stock... time to count your blessings... time to think about the people you love... time to love the people you love even more... time to thank God for all that he has given to me the past year... time to feel good about yourself... and what you have done for the past year... time to thank God that there's always another year for you to improve... time to appreciate people...

One thing that I tend not to think about... despite tremendous societal pressure... is to think about the BIG 3...... To each his own... but I tend to think that... as I always tell my dearie... Birthdays is just a date... and Age is just a number... While the former is not consistent with my current post, the latter is certainly how I feel always... Like I always tell my staff... what is the bottom line? It's simply... Age is just a number, we can always feel the age you want to feel... after all, we know that a 29-year-old person may not be what we thought of a 29-year-old when we were 15....

Thank God for the day...

Welcome home....

2007-03-22T22:40:00.000-07:00

Was just thinking about things randomly…. Then I realized how much I miss home… then I thought of these two words we hear on the plane when we land, that is really simple, yet mean so much… it goes like that…

“We will be touching down in Singapore. To all visitors, Welcome to Singapore. And to all Singaporeans, Welcome Home.”

Aren’t the last two words so simple… yet so powerful?

3 month update...

2007-03-18T22:12:00.000-07:00

Woah... before I know it.... the following took place from Dec 22 to Mar 18 2007.

Dec 22, Went to colorado... and had a hell of a time skiiing, experiencing snow fall, have a white Christmas..... more importantly... above all.... on the fateful night on Dec 24, 2005... in a small room in Gerogetown, Colorado.... I was given the utmost honor of trading my singlehood to engagedhood. This, in itself deserves 5 pages long of details, and I should not discredit it by mentioning it as part of my update. I will provide a full length recollection in the near future (define near...)

Spent New Year's eve in New Orleans... certainly ranked as one of the most happening count downs I have had... especially sweet when 365 days ago.... it was almost a non-event in Houston.

Crazy place... crazy fun... and more crazy was my very reliable Diamante broke down in one of the most undesirable place southwest of the US, a sleezy neighbourhood in New Orleans. Thank God... somehow things changed... and we got back in one piece.....

Busy season came and almost knocked me out cold...... this has been a really busy "busy season". I was definitely stretched, mentally and professionally.... add numerous working weekends, and a super rush trip to Orlando, Florida's Disneyland in the midst of this insane schedule... you have the perfect recipe for a rush rush January.

Feb came in a wink.... before I know it... a good part of the busy season is gone. Deadline came, was missed and left.... Co-workers became friends... it's amazing how things can change... the team i worked with bonded so well, that they started missing each other after we rolled off the engagement.

Was supposed to be in rock cold Chicago... somehow God knows me well... that I cant take the cold that he unexpectedly sent to the city. I got off the trip there, and got on one of the most satisfying engagement, professionally, ever. This deserves extended mention as well.

Somehow... a group of morons still decided to pay money to suffer the cold... they left the mild weathered houston to brave the snowfall in the windy city.... what a perfect combination for disaster... but fear not... with several pple who are well trained to self entertained, we had a great trip. I changed my perspective of this windy city from a mere cold (literally) place... to a cold place with a wonderful urban planning. A certain choice to live in, if not for the weather...

That was a quick one.... and trust me... time went by equally fast... if not faster than this...

And ask me why am I writing this.... is it because I am guilty... i am more free... I have the "feeling" again... or I reacted because someone told me to write more......

The answer is... none of the above..... it's simply because... blogging is more interesting than studying...

Quick updates

2006-12-22T14:32:00.000-08:00

Decided to update my blog since I am waiting for those dodos to pick me.

To where? To Denver Colorado!

Lucky escape 1.

There was a huge snow storm yesterday morning. All flights in and out of Denver were cancelled! We were praying hard that our trip will still go on.

Today.... our flight is at 615pm, the one at 5pm has been cancelled..... ours? It has been confirmed!! we are going skiing.... yeah..

Thank God!

Lucky escape 2

We requested for certain thing documents that required the client to consult their legal person who is located somewhere in USA. So it took him a while before he got back to me with the request.

At the same time, we have made a couple of additional request more than we need as a critical figure in the computation was not updated. We needed 37, instead of the 44 requested.

When I looked at the samples that we have received, one of them is wrong because my manager has marked out the line above the sample that we selected in error. Hence the client got us the sample that was marked out.

As we use this statistical method of generating our samples, we could not simply replace this. It has to be one of the 6 samples that (based on our statistical tool) is not required.

Long story short, it was the last one that we do not need!!!!!!! that means, if we have 38 instead of 37, this would have been selected, and my client will have to go through the long process of contacting the legal person and blah blah blah..

Bottom line... everyone will be PISSED..

But Thank GOD!! it didnt turn out that day. Why?

I know... in the morning.. I was feeling kinda stressed by the work that has accumulated, and the different tasks that were assigned... so I started the day telling God: "God... you lead the way... take my day.."

It is just like today... stop worrying and start praying... it seems the more effective thing to do.

Thank God and Thank God....

Busy busy busy...

2006-12-18T20:48:00.000-08:00

My week has been filled with work, moving of my things, other projects... etc etc...

Will be going to Denver for my first Skiing trip... exciting... plus will be putting up at the house of dodo... so wont be updating blog for a while...

the next time i blog, hopefully i will be in this new and happening apartment... nicely settled...

Pray for me...

Adios!

Weekend travel

2006-12-06T18:59:00.000-08:00

As some of you may know, my firm has this wonderful policy about weekend travel, that we are allowed to spend up to $750 on weekend travel if you are out of town for two weeks.

I was fortunate enough to piggyback on my love's weekend travel and went to Washington DC over the weekends. The trip was a pleasant one. We did abit of everything..

Eating, sight seeing, relaxing... spending time together... it was great...

Could have been a bit rush, but thanks to God's intervention, we failed to wake up on scheduled time for both days, hence had the chance to sleep in a little. I felt great after the trip.

Write more abt it plus photos next time.

Thank God..

Weather forecast...

2006-11-30T19:35:00.000-08:00

Honestly... who listens to, or checks, weather forecast in Singapore... put up your hand...

Ok... I see no hands... same here... I never ever, in my 27 years in Singapore ever bothered abt the part where they show clouds and sun and talks about something in degrees Celsius. Because we all know... it doesnt matter...

Here in Houston... we always listen out for Thunderstorm, change in weather... etc etc... one, for safety... if there's thunderstorm, we dont want to be out there. Two, for flight delays... not that much for me... but for some others...

Today, when i left home in the morning... it was 72 degrees Fahrenheit (about 23 degrees Celsius). And when i returned home, it was 33 degrees Fahrenheit (about freezing point)!!!!

How did things change so drastically... ? It's due to a cold front that came into Houston in the morning... it's amazing how things can change within such a short time frame.

We were all FREEzING!!! Thank God I listened to weather forecast.... and had a jacket with me.

The more interesting news was to hear from my love... she's in Wichita, Kansas. Looking at weather.com, the temperature at NOON was 11 degrees Fahrenheit, abt MINUS 11 degrees C, and with the win, it "felt like" MINUS 1 degrees Fahrenheit!!!! (abt -18 degrees C).

Happening happening....

Expensive photos... and a video too (UPDATED with video)

2006-11-29T13:16:00.000-08:00

How much would one pay for three low resolution photo and a 5 sec video... of equally low quality?

$5? $10?.... How about $75?

Not a chance? No way?

Not if it was sent by the Gahmen...

It happened on a fateful Monday about 2 weeks ago... In all eagerness to arrive at my client's place one min earlier... I beat the red light.... and the "reward" is the 3 photos printed on PAPER!! and a video online... (technology...)

I have included the photo for your viewing pleasure... there are information for payments... and if there're any kind souls who felt so touched by my work ethics and want to pay for me.. please go ahead and do it online for me... www.violationsinfo.com

The notice of violation.

The close up picture of the pictures... can clearly see my license plate... but 6 letters... cant buy 4-D. Haha.

Two fortunate things about the experience:
1) It's only $75... My friend got picked up by the police car... had to pay more and go to the court house which takes a day

2) If I did this in Singapore, it will be 12 demerit points... half gone...

So... Thank God!

Video will be added shortly.

Watch this space

Freezing butt....

2006-11-28T21:59:00.000-08:00

After being tormented by my CPA paper, which was temporarily suspended after monday (I just did one of four papers. It shd be the hardest.) I finally am able to post some interesting stuff around and in my life....

Last Tuesday... when I woke up... It was absolutely freezing... I knew it must be lower than the 36 degrees fahrenheit (about 3 degrees Celcius) that was predicted.... it turned out to be 32... which is freezing point...

I was sure when I saw my car:

Ice at the top (not ice lah, my love said... it's frost.... )

this is the close up picture of ice on the top of my car

Just in case you think it is dirt... this is the top of my car when I got to the client... nice, bright and shiny...

Those who are from north of US or even in Europe may think that freezing point is nothing... it is true... it just goes to show that I cant take anything cold... I cant take having frozen my butt off... haha... nice picture though... never ever seen that in Singapore I bet...

Uncle Neo...

2006-11-24T22:59:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow... is my "birthday" through baptism... and I got an early present...

A NIECE!!!!

So EXCITING!!!!

In a couple of years' time, I will be able to hear someone call me... "Uncle Jin"

EXCITING.....

Today... I met God

2006-11-19T21:13:00.000-08:00

(I wrote these during church service)

Today, I met God during the worship session in church.

Before I came here, I always known worship sessions as a time of high tempo praise and worships songs....

When i joined my current church, being slightly different from my previous one, the worship session was different. Without the high tempo music, I always complained to myself, I never meet God here during the worship. Back in Singapore, I will frequently be touched during our songs, and cry.... here... I almost have never done that.

Today, I went to church, a NEW MAN... having learnt how to surrender to Him during the week. During the worship session (sing song session), despite singing about the same songs as before, my heart was touched... by almost EVERY SONG!!! I kept crying... words like "Live my life for you" "Not to us, to your name be the glory" just filled my heart with so much joy and love... I couldnt stop crying...

I could hear God speaking to me through these words. Jesus was there... he was there to hear me sing to him my praise and worship and my adoration for him (As i am writing this, I am touched again)

I realized... God has always been there... but it's ME who did not step forward to meet me. My physical self was there, but I was never ready to bring my spiritual self to meet him.

Today, I let go of all the injustice I felt against people, the resulting grudges, the rejections, the greed and sense of poverty... I simply surrender my all to him... and I went.... and I met him.....

Amen!

The change... part 2

2006-11-18T20:43:00.000-08:00

This is pretty much a continuation of the last post.

Life has been pretty eventful ever since I set on changing it.

But now, I know nothing else matters, except my walk with God.

W.r.t last post, I got a couple of pointers regarding the reason for my decision to change. I gave them very careful thoughts, and, while there could be possibly an element of both, I very much thing this is how I see them:

1) The abandonment of the "poverty mindset".

It's basically the mindset of being poor, hence you need other revenues to make revenue. It was infered that I got out of that mindset.... Could be true... but I didnt feel it as strongly as my sis, who was proposed this idea.

2) The "guilt factor"

It was said that I finally felt guilty about these acts, and guilt caught up with me. While there could be an element of guilt that appeared, I would not attribute it being the main motivating factor behind my decision to change. Guilt is good sometimes, but it’s hard to use that to sustain one, and it’s something that is easy to hide it away, and not face...

So... I asked myself... WHY? WHY THE CHANGE?

The reason is simple. When my brother was sharing about how he has been doing some wrong things, deep in my heart, I wanted to tell him: “Brother, no matter what you have done, as long as you repent, God's grace is sufficient."

As I spoke those words in my heart, the phrase "God's grace" jumped out and hit me like a truck. I realised that I am imperfect, and have sinned, through grudges against people, through anger, bitterness in certain small ways... God has always given me Grace. Jesus has never abandoned me despite my ways.

The biggest catalyst of my decision to change is…. God's grace no matter what I do. With that fact staring at me…. I could no longer do the things I do. Knowing that despite all the wrongs I do, He will still love me. It is as if knowing that your wife will forgive you, no matter how many girls you sleep with. All the more you should never betray her.

To make it sound simpler, it is the positive thoughts of God's grace for me no matter how bad I am, no matter how sinful I am, that made me decide to change. Sounds odd right? I did take a bit of time to sort out these thoughts.

Basically, God is a God of love... and it is because of his UNCONDITIONAL love for me that made me decide to change, so that his love will not leave him unreturned. It is the thought of his forgiveness despite all my wrongs, that makes me not want to do anymore wrong. I want to love him back, I want to do no wrong! Hence I decided to attempt to change. While guilt is a negative motivation... and I may decide not to face this negative feeling... Love is a positive motivation... and I am sure it's a better motivator than the former.

As we all know, man is weak... and especially me. I pray to God... that he will sustain me... that I will bear no grudges against anyone, that no matter how people around me may change, I promise to TRY to stay the same. that people may say hurting words or place judgement, I do not do the same back. People may treat you differently, but you treat them all the same.

God, help me be a shinning example of your love. Use me to tell people about the love of Christ...
It is not letting go of a burden as I might has implied earlier… I think it’s more of the receiving of the love… it’s receiving of a booster… something that makes me want to wake up and see the change in me affect people around me.

Thank God and AMEN!

One man becomes a new man

2006-11-14T20:09:00.000-08:00

Background:

Today, I met up with two members of my small group, prayer partners.

We talked, we talked deep... we talked about issues in our life... not on the surface... but deep issues...

Conviction: the state of being convinced of error or compelled to admit the truth

One of brother started sharing his struggle in his life... something that is real... something that needs attention... I was reminded of myself.... how I have been cheating certain organisation... how I have been ultimately... CHEATING GOD.... I felt so convicted that these months... I have been such a cheat... I have been cheating God of his possessions...

Conviction: a strong persuasion or belief

From today onwards... I wanna declare to myself... and to anyone who reads this... I want to work towards not being a cheat... I want to stop claiming for dinners I never had.. stop claiming for tolls I never paid... I want to come clean... and stop cheating...

TODAY... ONE MAN BECOMES A NEW MAN.

AMEN!

The Fruit of the Spirit- Peace

2006-11-08T21:12:00.000-08:00

This was the title of my daily devotion, thanks to my super shen PPC.

John 14:27

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

Being justified by faith in His blood, we have peace.

Be prepared to do His will, and he will look after your interest. He will do exceedingly abundantly for you.

This comes at the perfect time…..

If you are in a client serving industry… have you ever face someone who bites at you with your every move? Has anyone frustrates you so much that you think to yourself if it is worth all the while to fight him back? Is there one single factor/person that affects your will to stay on a job? If you face all three above, you can understand how it is for me now, with my existing client…..

The mere fact that I have to be thoroughly prepared for a mudslinging session, albeit an educated one, each time I meet him with his boss and mine, just strains me so much.

Today was one of those days, when simple requests like “Can I see that ONE thing?” becomes so much more complicated than I ever can fathom….. I came back to my room, after the one-hour meeting totally exhausted… having defended myself, pretty successfully I must add, during the session.

That aside, being in a client serving job, we must always take our clients’ feedback into consideration. Hence, resulting in more work for me… in order to make up for the “shortfall” from the other end on the contribution source. (the sentence sounds a bit weird).

Anyway… I pray to God for strength, that he may take me through this, and watch my back for me, before I get multiple stab wounds… haha… Also, pray for peace to be upon me.. as I face the same set of people for the next 4 months…

Thank God for God… I feel so much better after reading His words.

Just a little prayer....

2006-11-02T22:41:00.000-08:00

Today… I am a little troubled…

I saw that a brother of mine is suffering… however, he is like what I was at one stage… does not know God… does not want to recognize sovereign God… Does not want to seek him for help… (at least that is what I was at one stage)

I want to tell him: “Brother, you got to seek God, you got to pray, you got to let God lead the way” Yet being human… I know that he does not want to listen to that… I am in a dilemma… Do I want to tell him the truth… and he will tell me to shut up and fug off.. or do I want to let him be… and just be soft on him… but I will be “responsible for my brother’s blood”

I am so blessed to have my love with me… to find a small group that is good to me… to have friends that are close to me…. And more friends from church….. but this brother of mine is not so fortunate… I am not sure about the input he is getting from the people he is mixing with… I am not sure if he is getting the right advices and looking at things with the correct attitude…

I do not want to reprimand him… I want to help him… but I am troubled… I am afraid God may lose him… I can only pray..

God… help me with this brother. God… help this brother… and help me say the right things… have the right resources to help him… and even talk to him at the right moment… Lord… I know you have a plan.. and your plan is to prosper us… and I want to pray to you… believing that you will be our lighthouse as we sail into the unknown.… you will be our deliverer from the difficult circumstances…

Lord… I pray that you come true for my brother… and you help him through this difficult time… Lord, I trust in you… and I pull all my faith in You… in the mighty name of Jesus.. Amen.

Please get out of my elite uncaring face.

2006-11-02T01:53:00.000-08:00

The words above are quoted from the blog of the daughter of an MP… someone representing the people of Singapore… Sorry… I included the poorer and the less educated too, just in case they were lost in transit.

Basically, the story goes that this elite girl from RJC went to criticize someone who was lamenting on the competitive nature of the Singapore society…

“if you’re not good enough, life will kick you in the balls. that’s just how things go”

“we are a tyranny of the capable and the clever, and the only other class is the complement.”

“am inclined - too much, perhaps - to dismiss such people as crackpots. stupid crackpots. the sadder class. too often singaporeans - both the neighborhood poor and the red-taloned socialites”

And of coz many many other offensive postings… which can be found here:

http://solitairejoker.wordpress.com/2006/10/20/future-of-singapore/

And her father, AMK’s MP… came out and made some half hearted apology…

Like “think if you cut through the insensitivity of the language, her basic point is reasonable”

Which I may interpret as… “yes… If u complain about it.. you probably suck… go eat shit and stop depending on me to help you”

“Nonetheless, I have counseled her to learn from it. Some people cannot take the brutal truth and that sort of language”

Which I interpret as… “if you are not from some elite… you are just shit… so you better just flush urself down the toilet bowl, or let some fellow Singaporean eat you (those whom I asked to eat shit)”

The whole episode can be viewed her:

http://intelligentsingaporean.wordpress.com/wee-shu-min/

Anyway… the best is some funny guy made a video on you tube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TtavgfcZrvs&eurl=

Try to read a bit before you watch the video… and you will enjoy more of it…
Basically, she has an orh kee (mole), which was cleverly added….

Anyway… the bottom line…

Are our leaders like that?

If my leaders are not going to fight for me… why should I spend my 2 years training to defend the country as a whole, and them, in particular… ?

Why should I subject my sons in future to defend them, when I know their daughters wont fight for my Son….?

I am worried…

Happy!

2006-11-01T18:59:00.000-08:00

Just read a devotional note from the pocket bible on my Pocket PC!!

It talks about the lust of the flesh... and how the desire for the gratification of the natural appetite may be latent in the soul, and may flash through the thoughts, but if we are led by the spirit... we do not fufill the desire.... how Great is our God...

Another well structured sentence is... "the desire cannot be prevented, but its fulfilment can certainly be withheld"... how true it is...

We are constantly challenged... to be nasty... the nature of our flesh is evil... but the nature of the holy spirit is good... so... if we are led by our flesh... we will want to be nasty to people... we will want to get back at people whom we perceived to be mean to us... we may be insecured... and do things that reflect that... we may do many other things that does not please God... but if we are led by the holy spirit... we will learn... and at least walk towards "getting it right"...

And dont get me wrong... "getting it right" does not get you to heaven... in fact... if you think "getting it right" does... that is when we are most wrong... The way to heaven is simple...

Acknowledge that we are imperfect, and will not "get it right" all the time... then we have to find someone who can 1) Forgive us, 2) Help us when we dont "get it right".... the one is Jesus (not Neo... haha!)

oh... i side tracked... the reason why i am happy is because i downloaded this program call Pocket eSword... which amazingly has everything... commentaries... bible... dictionary... daily devotion... scripture memory... bible studying target... etc etc... really super comprehensive...

and... IT'S A FREEWARE!!!! HOW SHEN!!!

If you have a pocket PC like I do... which is already so shen... go to http://www.e-sword.net/pocketpc/downloads.html

Oops... i am starting to sound a little like a dodo.... and that cant be good...

That's all folks!

Photo moments

2006-11-01T17:12:00.000-08:00

Share some interesting pictures

1) My latest and most popular hang out place- My desk..

Reason: CPA exam

This is a picture of my apartment complex... see how the setting sun glows so nicely on the building... one building... many colors

And... The cause of the brillant glow... the amazing Sunset in Houston...

Found it!

2006-10-31T16:48:00.000-08:00

Chup Cai Ben... in Hokkien, Za Cai Fan in Mandrain, and Mixed Veggetable Rice (literal translation in good old Singlish).... one of my all time favourite when I was in Singapore... something that I can repeatedly have, and even with the same combination, amongst its thousands possible combinations... and never got tired of it...

Not too long ago, I met this Singaporean who has been here for a while, he told me that there's a good Shao La (Mandrain for Chinese BBQ) stall at Dynasty Supermarket, a place that we have passed several hundred times, but never was close to stepping into it.

Last week, I had a chance to try their Roasted Duck... and Char Siew (aka BBQ Pork)... and it more than met my standard. This week, being an highly unadventurous person (actually I have been adventurous to venture to a few other supermarkets, but they didnt even meet my low standards), I went back to Dynasty again. I da baoED (takeaway) packets of rice for the hungry souls in office... and the review was decent.

Today! I went back... and decided to eat just the Chup Chai Ben only... and it turned out to be such a brillant decision... the dishes were really good and reminds me of good 'ol Singapore... to exaggerate things... it kinda completed the missing part in my life... haha... I finally FOUND IT!

The one thing about the food here, they often give you more than you could handle. Which means leftovers for dinner. Just a moment ago, after frying an egg, I ate the leftovers, with the egg... To top it all up... I added the ultimate and absolutely supremely tasty SAMBAL CHILLI!!!

Like I told my love... I can have the Sambal Chilli with plain rice, and that would be a SATISFYING one... though it would not please any nutritionists... But having the chilli really brought my dinner to another high... I LOVE SINGAPORE... haha... All thanks to my wonderful and brillant mother who made the delicious chilli...

It's interesting how something so simple can yield such great satisfaction... It's all the power of the mind... and none can give you the adequate power than God... Thank God that he is keeping me happy despite in all circumstances... I may not obey him all the time... I may have failed to be a "good neighbour"... but God never fails....

Must blog

2006-10-25T21:19:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update for myself....

What did I do over the past week... ? Very happening week in fact...

To sum it up...
1) Bruised..
2) Scared
3) Lazy
4) Rushed
5) Poor

It seems bad doesnt it? It actually is just the opposite...

Friday:
A small group friend's other small group has an outreach program. And that Friday, it was to go to the ice ring in Memorial City Mall for... BROOM HOCKEY...

What is that? I have no clue... till I went... it's basically like hockey... but on ice... and man.. it was really slippery... many of us were falling all over the place. i had a bad bruise on my left knee and hurt my back a little too. The rule of the game is simple... just try to score lah!

It was a rather one sided game.... the team that I was on kept defending... but somehow managed to take the lead... only towards the end of the game, did the opposing team, which tim the dodo is in, miraculously found a way through our water-tight defence. A controversial goal, as we did not utilise the much talked about goal line technology, just like football. 2-2 it ended.

Anyway, it was a great game... i had my fair share of running... and work out... filled with lotsa fun... I only wish there will be more coming..

Saturday:

Whole of afternoon was filled with apartment hunting... and it was not futile... we found this amazingly looking place, with TWO lakes and THREE Swimming Pools!!! It's a Humongous place... with a wonderful environment... Furthermore, the room layout was perfect for us too! Despite it being $100++ more per month than it's poorer cousin next door... we were sure we will be residents of this place, come Jan 2007.

Saturday night came... we met up with some co-workers... organised by one cool guy, by the name of Peter... He is always organising things, and asking us along... seriously lucky to have gotten to know him here... He organised a trip to a Haunted House (in singapore... it's called Gui Wu- literally Ghost House) since it's going to be Halloween soon (Oct 31). I never know when is Halloween, so it's really fun to be involved in "celebrating".

The place is call Scream World. We had to travel abit to get there.. When we got there, it was filled with people. The setting is elaborate... The props and stuff were all fantastically done. I was caught off guard and had a scare twice or thrice through our walk.... While it was not scary.... the entertainment value was there.

Just for visual effect... I copied a picture of the website below:

Sunday:

Slow day... went to church... attended baptism class, came home... sleep and study for CPA.

Monday:

Went to take a 2nd look at the apartment... Convinced that it IS the right one. Went to office for some stupid meeting... which latest 10 mins... then spent the rest of the day dozing off at my desk

Tuesday:

Slept till there's no tomorrow... then someone woke me up... we went to sign the application ($300! No turning back).

When I was waiting for the agent to be back from lunch, I had mine at a table beside the lake... Every min there just makes me like the place more.. it is THE place for me..

Wednesday:

Went to fix my tooth which has chipped off... cost US$150 to build a crown i think... That is after my insurance probably paid about 4-500 dollars... expensive..

Eventful week... The best thing is... not assigned on job, though have to clear some stuff... but the pace is way slow and so relax...

Thank GOD!

Another note to my love

2006-10-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

The Cries of my heart

Leaving With the luggage
Jetting to a new Ville

Sitting in my car
Stealing your back view

Looking out of my room,
Trees Tall and Still

Sitting on my chair,
Thinking of you

Going to bed early
longing to see you

knowing in my heart
Loving only you

It is obvious that this is nowhere as good as the last one. (I realised that in Secondary School when my Literature Teacher was not at all impressed by my "poems" when I thot they were excellently done") But this is many more times more meaningful.... for the obvious reason... I wrote it in the middle of this week.... when my love was away..

Thank God for words... Thank God for feelings... Thank God that absence makes my heart grow fonder... Thank God... Thank God..

I am glad I blog

2006-10-20T11:08:00.001-07:00

Are you someone that will keep all the letters and cards (with personalised words) you received, and after a couple of years... or even many many years... open this cards... and relive the memories of the past....?

I am... and I am such a sucker for that... in fact, when I was still at home, I would do this once a while... say 6 months... and always enjoy the memories... sweet or otherwise..

I thank God for Blogs... now I am trying to invest for these sweet memories in the future... I hope i will blog all the little things in my life... such that I can come back and enjoy it in future...

To those who are afraid your blog may end up like ipaddler, which i think crashed... I would suggest backing it up.. How? Just go to file>save as> "Save as type">one file.

That's what i do... i will keep it with me... i hope for the rest of my life...

Little terror

2006-10-19T21:52:00.000-07:00

Think of something so small, so insignificant.... yet can make you uncomfortable all day....

make u lose your appetite.... make u feel irritated...

even thick jackets, comfortable seats, good food cant relieve it....

makes you talk like a retard... eat like an idiot....

One thing that, when you have two, you dont want to have just one....

it's the ulcer in my mouth... it sucks... there were two small ones... now they have combined power to be one big one (Ouch!)

It used to work when i apply the watermelon frost (xi gua shuang), but somehow, after applying for days, it doesnt seem to work...

I think i will remain a retard for at least 2 more day..... sianz..

Realising my dreams

2006-10-17T08:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday night, I discovered I that there’s something I have overlooked about myself for a while: the traveler in me.

I rediscovered it when I was reading up on trips to South America. It has always been my ultimate fantasy to go to South America on a backpacking trip, amongst the many other places that I want to go to.

I have always wanted to go to a couple places, namely:

Europe
Russia
Alaska
India
China
Central America
South America

And among these places, Central and South America seemed to be beyond my reach at one point, when I was in Singapore.

I do not want to merely Step across the border, So as to tell people that:"Yeah, i've been there." I want to see the place.

Currently, we are already planning to go to Alaska, in the Summer of 07. Looking at the way things are, we could possibly spend about 1 week in Alaska, beer hunting, glacier trekking and many more. Ideally, this is followed by a cruise to the inner channels of Alaska for abt a week Too. What a dream.

It's 2 am in the morning, and I am feeling all excited abt things. How interesting it will be it all these were to come true. How interesting it is that the possibility of these even existed just over a year ago.

Update on the rain...

2006-10-16T14:39:00.000-07:00

One nice pic to share...

Just in case you are wondering, it is not a picture of the new olympic size swimming pool... it's just water accumulated in an area where the land has been excavated.

See how heavy the rain is...

My co-worker who is working off the client's just told me at 430 that they are emptying the building, becoz a number a streets near the client's are begining to flood.

How interesting....

Also... from the weather service:

the story goes... (extracted from the National Weather Service)

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HAS ISSUED TORNADO WATCH 830 UNTIL 7 PM CDT THIS EVENING WHICH REPLACES A PORTION OF TORNADO WATCH 829.

THE NEW WATCH IS VALID FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS
IN SOUTHEAST TEXAS THE NEW WATCH INCLUDES 11 COUNTIES
AUSTIN BRAZORIA CHAMBERS FORT BEND GALVESTON HARRIS LIBERTY MONTGOMERY POLK SAN JACINTO WALLER
THIS INCLUDES THE CITIES OF...ALVIN... ANAHUAC...ANGLETON... BELLVILLE... BROOKSHIRE...CLEVELAND...COLDSPRING... CONROE... CORRIGAN...DAYTON... FREEPORT...FRIENDSWOOD...GALVESTON... HEMPSTEAD...HOUSTON...HUMBLE...KATY... LAKE JACKSON... LEAGUE CITY... LIBERTY...LIVINGSTON...MISSOURI CITY... MONT BELVIEU...ONALASKA... PASADENA...PEARLAND...PRAIRIE VIEW... RICHMOND...ROSENBERG...SEALY... SHEPHERD...SUGAR LAND... TEXAS CITY... THE WOODLANDS...TOMBALL...WILLIS AND WINNIE.

Thank God for rain….

2006-10-16T06:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday night… it was raining… and I did one thing I have never done for a long time… that is to listen to the raindrops falling on the trees beside my room…

In the high rise buildings of Singapore, you are never close to the trees… and when there’s a rain, the closest u can hear is it hitting against your windows (unless you are those who stay in eat wind house aka landed property, which unfortunately is not where I live). The rain gives off a soothing sounds… so random, yet so in sync… so loud, yet not at all irritating… so close, yet doesn’t drench me… I love the rain… when I was in Singapore, to me, rain is a way of asking people to slow down… asking people to stay home… I love rain… looking from outside in, rather than in it though…

It was great to hear the raindrops… it was great to feel the shelter God put over me… I really enjoyed that… I hope there will be more rain tonight…

Another interesting thing about living in this place is… at times, there are serious weather conditions that stops people from going to work…

On my way to work, I was listening to the radio… and it said:“ If you are non-essential personnel, you are advised to stay at home. Schools in Galveston are close, schools in the HISC district (whatever is means) remains open. But parents are advised to use their discretion, and not send children to areas where there is flooding. Houston Christian High School will delay the start to 10am.”

WOAH! No school as a result of rain… isn’t that what we always hope for? Something serious, yet not serious enough… unfortunately, being a Singaporean, I found it weird to stay home when I am fit to work (that’s how well my government has brainwashed me).

But it’s still fun to know that something that I always hope for as a kid… is coming true for other kids… Appropriate level of rain is good…. Isn’t it?

Happiness is in fact relative...

2006-10-06T23:49:00.000-07:00

How can anyone be happy after losing US$186....?

That is if he thought that his car was stolen... then realised that it was JUST towed....

Was invited to a mid autumn festival celebration by a church fren (here, pple call it house party).... so we went... and indeed had a GREAT time... with so many Singaporeans and Malaysians... with all the lahs and lohs... and great food... super time...

Becoz of a joke between the host and her fren, i was under the impression that I was able to park at Bank of America... which is outside her house... (She offered to pay for my ALL of my fine)

Little did I know it wasnt something serious between them... and why didnt I see the notice while waiting for Zhiying..? God knows...

So... when I came out from her house... I saw the car park (garage in American terms) totally empty... my mind went equally blank.... MY CAR MUST BE JACKED!!!

After calling Mr Trusted Wen... who told me clamly to call the police....

Then as I was talking to him... I saw... THE SIGN.... "TOWING ZONE" (or something like that)

As you would have expected it... I was... (SAD? NO!!) Elated!! Why? I was thinking of all the things that I have in my car.... my laptop and all the photos and info... and to start looking for a CAR again... and I love my car... it's simply a bigger ordeal to lose my car, that a small amount money cant replace...

Then... I was really happy... not happiness out of joy... but out of relief.... I was relief... i was glad... Happiness is relative....

After a long while of looking for the car... thanks to my very sensitive and assuring ger fren.. we got my car back

Like my fren said... "It was an expensive Mid Autumn".... But I say... "It's worth it..." (Not that I want this kinda adventure every time though) haha!

THANK GOD!

The experience of living abroad

2006-09-29T22:05:00.000-07:00

There are so many different pple i meet here... that I would never ever talk to or cross path with them, if i were in singapore... but here... we see them each day... and have no other choices... somehow..

I must say... it's an exprience that helped me grow... a great deal... i thank God that I will never see these pple again when i go back home...

And i will never want to be associated with them... what a relief!

The ultimate Gas price

2006-09-28T20:53:00.000-07:00

It's gasoline... it's the price... it's low... it's extremely low.. it's unbelieveably low... it's a RECORD since i got here..

1 and half months ago, gas prices were at abt US$2.899 per gallon for regular (standard 89)...

today? it's $2.069!!! it's a whopping 83cts fall!! A drop of almost 29%

You really save alot meh? You may ask... OF COZ LAH... If i go to my regular client, i used to spend abt $200 per month on gas.. which means i save US$60 a month!! for nothing!!! so shen... (as tim would put it)

God is good... lower lower lower... we only hope that it goes one direction...

having a happy day...

2006-09-27T08:07:00.000-07:00

I was talking to a close brother of mine. While he was counting his blessings with me… sharing his joy… being so positive… I was lamenting on things that are not as pleasing… things that are not going smoothly… then I realized how I always told myself to be positive… and count my blessings from God… and yet how much I am moving in the opposite direction now.

I decided that I should start thanking God for all the good things in my life, rather than focusing solely on less than happy ones…

1) I am studying for my CPA… I feel really happy when I know that I am gaining knowledge…. the funny thing about me is… while I love knowledge; I do not like reading… So… only when there’s an exam at the end of it… I will study pretty hard (abt 1 hour per day I try). Happy…

2) I have a family whom I love… and loves me…

3) God loves me… all the time… I am sure…

4) I have a someone whom I love and loves me too!

5) When I was back in Singapore, I realized I may have made some insensitive comments about my friend who is teaching. I wasn’t sure if he was angry with me… today… we had our usual trash talking… which means everything seems to be fine… yeah……… it was kinda bothering me… so I am glad God answered my prayers by resolving this…

6) I am watching Liverpool WIN later…. Becoz somehow the live streaming works….

7) I have a free dinner tonight…. Yeah………….

See… so many happy things… if you want to work on it… there are many things to be happy about… Thanks Song… talking to you just rubs some positive energy onto me…

The moment

2006-09-26T21:16:00.000-07:00

It is one of those morning (few and far between) for me... that you wake up in the early morning... then you look out... everything seems so much nicer... somehow... I procrastinate a bit... before taking out my camera... to make one of those shots that i want to show you.
I named this picture… the moment… becoz, just like many things… if u didn’t look out at THE MOMENT, you would not see it… sometimes… it may have been there all the time… but since u didn’t want to take that extra look, that extra effort to see it… u miss the moment. Some things are with you forever, but if you miss the moment, you may have missed the best part of that thing.

An hour later, the moment was gone… the lights came out, the water dripped off… everything was different from the moment. Cherish things when they exist… but when they are gone… hold on to those fond memories.

Thank God for cameras, now you and I are able to relive “the moment”.

Summary of the last one month

2006-09-24T21:31:00.000-07:00

The biggest thing that happened, without doubt, is the trip home.

Life back home is always moving at 200 miles per hour….. too fast to even catch my breath… sometimes I wonder if I am more suited for the slower pace western world…. Hmm… without all the local food…? I think I will pass that on….

On 31st August, 2006, I finally returned home… it has been one of the most anticipated trip… not one bit overrated… simply exciting… going home just feels that part of me that seems missing for a while… the feeling of … being at home…

The first moments when I was at home, alone I might add, I spent time just looking out, appreciating the familiar surroundings. Doing my routine of going to the kitchen and looking for food…. Even using the bathroom… everything little thing was euphoric… everything little thing was meaningful…

Before I went back, we were talking so much about what we are going to eat… and when I was back… it was more about… who am I going to meet… the urge to fill the stomach was overpowered by the urge to fill the heart… I was so glad to have spent a substantial part of my time home with my parents… I love them…

The ONE thing that makes me want to return home is to be with my parents… is to make them know that their son, me, is with them… is to assure them that their son, me, is going to take care of them…. That their son, me, is not lost to the ang moh world, which appears so much more interesting and appealing (TOTALLY OVERRATED!).

I met up with many friends, and was really glad that those who came made it… some were easy to connect back, some seemed to have lost that telepathy with me, some seem to forget that I am still me,never serious… nevertheless, I appreciate each one who made the effort to spend their precious time with me. Like I repeated a thousand times, I could totally understand if someone was not able to make it, I was in that “mad rush” in life before… in which there were just too many things happening all together…

One of the most fun events was the trip back to the office. I didn’t feel too comfortable going back since I wasn’t sure what I should say to the ex-colleagues who somewhat know me, yet wasn’t somewhat close…. Still, I did it…. Right after my lunch with my ex-mentor group… something which I have always enjoyed… something that I really miss since I left the firm.

I am really glad that I left the firm on a positive note, didn’t piss too many people off too much. Such that people perceive me to be a decent fellow, and some SEEMED really happy to see me and catch up with me. I was really happy to catch up with everyone that I met that day. I have always been that kind of a person who will want to the “routine walk in a place that I was in years before” even years after I left… I dunno how you describe someone like this. I was happy to be back in this place… taking the lift up… walking the narrow walkway… a place that I committed two years of my time… a place that has groomed me, nurtured me, a place where I feel I belong, loved, a place that I had toiled, and enjoyed… I was really happy to be back.

Time flies (overused cliché) as usual, but did I have a good flight…? I must say it’s an emphatic YES! The ONE THING that made this such a wonderful journey is being able to spend time with my parents again. I really miss and love them. The food was great too… like I told many people, and what my dear consciously pointed out time and again, my stomach was constantly full for the whole day for the first 4 days. I did enjoy the food… but really… it’s the people that makes a place… I am ready to be back… in just about 365days…. back home…

Homecoming- Day 1

2006-08-31T15:19:00.000-07:00

Coming home from overseas has always been a happy experience for me… none more so than this trip home…

After 8 ½ months of being away… I am finally home… I cant remember the number of times I asked Zhiying “Very excited hor?”

We took one of the best flight you can take for a long haul flight…. Executive economy on SQ.. I am thoroughly convinced of SQ’s supreme standard after this experience…

One of the most impt thing, if not THE most impt, is food… below is the chronological order in which food was consumed (with delight I must add) during my first day

510am: Saw Polar… always liked the chicken pie and the sugar rolls… walked up.. might as well try the Curry puff… and also saw… DURIAN roll… can taste the real durian in it man!!

9am: After a bit of unpacking and wash-up… headed to the market that I go to, when I growing up, and ate the BLACK carrot cake… with CHILLI!! Super stuff… of coz… not forgetting the chin chow drink…. The combination I only had for the past 23 years (at least).

11am: after a short drive… reached the prawn mee shop at upp east coast road… with soup… and chilli powder… it was good… but the accompanying Wu Xiang (aka Chinese rojak by my dad) was even more POWER (as tim would put it… SHEN)… It would be nowhere as good without it’s chilli, which deserves a special mention.

Went home thereafter… took a nappy…. Then headed for geylang at 630pm

7pm: Ate the frog leg with porridge… and others… all very nice…

Rest and sleep….?

No! Woke up at 430am (must be due to jet lag)…

Took a look at the fridge…..

DURIAN! Took 3 seeds… Satisfied…

What’s next???

Waking up at 630am….

2006-08-25T13:38:00.000-07:00

Recently, I discovered an avenue to watch ESPN’s Sports Center… No no… no the one that attributed 2 seconds to World Cup coverage… it’s Sports Center ASIA!!!!

What’s the big deal, you may ask. To you, it may be just the difference between waking up on the left or right side of the bed (no difference)… but to me… IT IS THE PROGRAM!

Why? Being born and raised in Singapore, it is natural that I am concerned about the happenings in Singapore… B*S*!!!

The actual reason is… I watched almost ALL the sports on ESPN and Starsports… Football, F1, Golf, Tennis, Basketball…. Etc etc… and for the 8 months I have been here… F1 was never mentioned (becoz some suckers cant do well at certain things… they rather not know it exists)… Football was given another name and given 2 FREAKING SECONDS worth of coverage during the most important event in 4 years!!

Why wake up at 630am, am I an early riser? NO! If you know me just a tiny wenee bit, you know I can barely wake up at 830am, let alone 630am (I was always late for my lessons at 1030am when I was in school… WTF!)

The reason is becoz Sports Center is telecast at 730pm Singapore time, which is 630am my time… I honestly have never been committed to any cause that requires me to wake up early… this is really a BIG exception… but… I am happy…. So happy to see some real programs on “the beautiful game”. Not some lame shows shown on Tim’s channels (called FSC). And of course… not to mention.. I get to listen to my all time Ou Xiang (idol)… John Dykes… he is a football presenter, who is humble, knowledgeable, and extremely insightful on all things football. F1 is something I missed a lot too… hopefully I will get to watch more… and the live streaming will not be cut off…

HaaaaaaaaaAAAAaaaAAAAaappPPPPpppPPppppYYyYYyYyyyyYYYYYyYyyyyY!

Excited!!!

2006-08-25T07:16:00.000-07:00

I was working now... 912am... and somehow feel really excited about going home.....

The sweet smell of home... I smell it... do you?

WWWWWWWWWWWWOooooooooooooooooooO OOOOOOOAaaaaaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaaaaaaHHhhhhhhhh

Money money money...

2006-08-17T21:12:00.000-07:00

Planning the trip back... biggest problem... repaying debt.....

just a simple breakdown of the money that is going out...

Sadz...

SGD 1.57 USD
Dad loan-----------USD 19,108
Ma allowance -----USD 2,000
Things to buy------USD 1,000
Money in account-USD 2,000
Sis' tic---------------USD 850
Sub Total----------USD 25,108
Zhiying ------------USD (10,000)
Total outgoing----USD 15,143 (heartache)

How to not blog this?

2006-08-16T21:18:00.000-07:00

One thing there is extremely steady about the firm... not sure if it's US in general...

I wanted to have a printer.... cant find a good client to request it for (most clients here provide every freaking thing you can think of).

So tried requesting it online...

Bingo! request granted. Printer issued within 2 days. How shen! (as tim will say countlessly).

Someone collected for me... I thought they will give some cheap cheap printers, since it's quite easy to request for one...

Who knows..... HP Deskjet 460c

It is this!!!! What a beauty... Checked online....

Cost US$200!!! I am impressed...

Enough said...

Bruised ego

2006-08-16T16:11:00.000-07:00

We came here, with great expectations, with excellent reputations… somewhat arrogant about myself… about how much better we are than “them”.

8 months on… we realized we are the “guy” or that “staff” who briefly appeared, out of nowhere. The person who is there to fill some gap. The reason why you are here is no longer becoz you are you, but becoz there’s this gap that needed to be filled.

8 months on… we realized we are not really that much better than “them”. While we are not any worse generally, we certainly get nothing close to the “superstar” treatment, sometimes we foolishly think we deserve.

I guess this bitter pill, in the form of a humble pie, is something we have taken, like it or not. I think this whole process really teaches me to have greater humility, to think of myself less (not feel inferior). More importantly, it teaches me to appreciate the recognition that I receive from peers and superiors back home. It also teaches me to appreciate the “lesser” foreigners better when I get back home.

One thing I am good at.... make the most out of the situation. Since we like to travel, request for more travelling engagement... see the country more... whatever it is... it's up to us to make it good and better....

While many would cry and whine… I know this is only consistant with what Jesus said… (not in exact words, just the gist)… “the last will be the first, and the first will be the last”

I would also like to add something that I read somewhere….

The joy of working hard is not success,
but the mere knowledge that you have tried your best.

SCAMS

2006-08-15T19:14:00.000-07:00

My life has suddenly become less than simple....

During my relentless pursuit of a "value" camera.....

I almost got myself into a "like-fraud" dealer.

Found this website through a advert on a forum a frequent:

http://www.bestpricecameras.com/display.asp?page=312322

Sells superbly priced camera, at unbeatable price. Payment method: Credit card....

Cant go wrong....? So I thought....

After keying in my credit card details (before the good deals get snapped up), i googled "bestpricecameras"... and much to MY HORROR..... I saw posts like this:

(Source: http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=bestpricecamera)

"the company is involved in a HIGH pressure sales pitch to get me to buy accessories, like lenses, filters, batteries and charger, memory cards, etc. "

"DO NOT BUY ANYTHING FROM THESE CROOKS"

and other things like.... stolen credit card IDs.... It was a nightmare!!

Thank God... It was a late Friday night, and I guess they must have been sleeping or something... I called my credit card company asked if they have charged my card. They have not. So I immediately report the lost of credit card info, and requested for a change of cards.

Just today, when surfing on another website, I saw another good deal at
http://oneclickdigital.com/product.asp?productid=CanEosXTkit&tab=1

When I searched the web again, it is another bait-and-switch operation....

So... Be WARNED.

Good food

2006-08-10T18:49:00.000-07:00

This week, I had the opportunity to make my 2nd trip out of town for an engagement. Like I have heard so much before from my inner circle of friends, one perk of travelling is... GOOD FOOD.

Why?
Need you ask?

What did I have?
Sunday night: Tuna Sashimi, prawn sphagetti, drinks.
Cost: Abt US$40 (price after tips and tax)

Monday night: Japanese sushimi, sushi, rolls..
Cost: abt $35

Tuesday night: Break from good food
Cost: Immaterial, leave.

Wednesday night: Filet Mignon, Wine, Desserts.
Cost: $50

Thursday night: Starter- Lobster something, Main- Roasted Duck, Desserts- Peacan Pie
Cost: $50

Weekly summary: Too much good food.
Cost: Porridge for one day at least.

It's a fresh experience, but not something I enjoy too extremely.....

Hmm... then again... Can't complain, can i?

My narration of our Grand Canyon hike

2006-08-08T20:14:00.000-07:00

Since I am taking forever to load my photos, i shall share a few that I particularly like. Something that I use to reflects our feelins about the trek down to Grand Canyon...

It was certainly a trip.... one of its kind... I hope these pictures will aptly describe our experiences...

Here it goes....

The TREK DOWN TO GRAND CANYON

Like many things in life... We started confident, not complacent... ready to take on the world...
(Tim and Zhanwen at one of the stopping points along highway 1)

We felt that we are bigger than anything we will face.... with an overcoming attitude.. we set out...

(Tim taking a picture of sharon in a lousy jersey- LA)

we caught a glimpse... an adventure of the life time beckons... excited... expecting.. we went on

(Sunset at a place near Williams, stopover pt to Grand Canyon)

As we started... we realised it was indeed a rugged adventure...

(Zhiying with her worn out attire in Grand Canyon)

we saw a lot a beautiful sights... but it was never a breeze..

(Another stop point along Highway 1- Jagged point)

At times, we wanna punch ourselves for setting on this trip.... other times... we felt shitty...

(LA's Universal studio- A fun shot)

We walked... we toiled...

(Tim following closely behind a exhausted, but persisting Sharon)

We could see that the end was near..... and the obstacle was not as big as we sometimes perceived it to be.

(Zhiying, persisting despite a sprained ankle, behind the backdrop of Grand Canyon)

Sometimes, when life gets tough, you just have to focus your mind on other things...

(Beach goers at Mahattan Beach, LA)

Finally when we completed the journey.... we wanted to dance... we knew it was worth it... every bit of our sweat ...

(The Bellagio Fountain- Las Vegas)

The end may be just THAT MOMENT.... But we definitely have it captured, deep in our heart.....

(Fireworks at Monterary Bay, California on July 4)

Home home home...

2006-08-06T00:15:00.000-07:00

The sweet smell of home is nearer... the date: 31 August, 2006, 540am!

Counting down... haha

I teared

2006-08-04T09:44:00.000-07:00

A couple of tears rolled down my cheeks.....

No... no one bullied me... no... my love did not leave me...

It's simply because I was watching a video on my friend's blog.

How it Started:

Me: Alec, so hiong ah, do Iron man. Actually what does it take to be an Ironman. (He is doing it this Dec)

Alex: nothing la....3.8km swim, dats abt 76 laps of the pool only....

Alex: 180km bike, from boonlay to changi and back...2 times

Alex: followed by a marathon, dats all.

Me: (So easy? I am sure I can do it too)Wah so hiong,
that time i went to nike cycling... from east coast till NTU, my butt almost cracked

Then he shocked me....

Alex: and when u think dats tough...imagine a 70+ yr old man carrying his 30+ yr old disabled son through the entire course....

Zi...Tri Hard! says (11:30 AM):
watch this video....i always Cry when i watch it, esp at the finish....

Here it is... at the heart of the ironman...
http://zitan.multiply.com/video/item/5

Prepare a tissue or two..

Update on scam

2006-08-03T23:02:00.000-07:00

A 2nd email (pretending to be the seller of the item i bidded), offering a "2nd chance" bid.

Kaoz!!

MUST BE CAREFUL BIDDING IN EBAY!!!

Was ALMOST caught in a scam... involving US$1k

2006-08-03T15:32:00.000-07:00

Long story short, bidded for an item, lost the bid becoz very kiam gana.

But the winning bid was $150 more, which was about the right price.A short while after the bid ended, I was contacted by the seller about the 2nd chance bids (that means his winning bidder put his aeroplane).

After a short verification that he is indeed the seller, by sending a message directly through his ebay account. I agreed to buy his product. But he replied to say that we could do the deal through "ebay square trade", and I was supposed to send the money through this 3rd party agency through Western Union.

When I search the net for the company Square Trade, I found that it is indeed a recommend arbitration party by ebay.

The PROBLEM is... when I click through the email sent to me by the seller, it led me to this webpage: http://www.square-trade-ltd.info/index-1.htm

When I click it through ebay, it led me to this page:http://www.squaretrade.com/cnt/jsp/index.jsp

Seems the same? I think it's not. I tried to locate the physical address... it seems correct too.

Then when I check the official website (through ebay), it said:"Beware of potential fake "spoof" emails that pretend to be an authentic email from SquareTrade or other trusted companies. DO NOT SEND MONEY TO WESTERN UNION / MONEYGRAM / WIRE TRANSFER !!!"

http://www.squaretrade.com/htm/pop/p...raudAlert.html
(READ THIS... It's good)

So... beware... I am not 100% sure that the seller is a fraudster, but I will not trade outside the ebay homepage. (i cant be sure until they take my $$$). Hope it helps.

The morale of the story... there are very few extremely good deals... the market now is quite transparent, so it's hard to get an extremely low price for anything. If you do get one... do your homework, or risk losing your money.

Thank God for the Kiasu Kiasi mentality in me... I am after all just a Singaporean....

My Summer vacation- thoughts...

2006-07-29T20:55:00.000-07:00

The VACATION…..

June 24, 2006…. The day has arrived…. We woke up at 4ish in the morning… not merely to start the day… but to embark on one of the most eagerly anticipated vacation… my first REAL vacation here.

Abt 7am, we took the flight… headed for LAS VEGAS!!

Aim was to get to this place outside Grand Canyon on the same day. I think it’s called Williams. The weather was hot….. almost in the 40s (degree Celsius)…

On the way there, we went to Hoover Dam…. Pretty neat place for a dam… it was actually at the dividing line between Nevada (where Vegas is in) and Arizona (where Grand Canyon is in).

When we got to Williams, or the place around Williams… we realized that it was like a dead town…. No one around for miles and miles… and in fact… we missed the hostel that we are suppose to go to… and went abt 10-15 miles too far. When we turned back….

Murphy’s Law… the only place that we didnt make a reservation... was fully booked.

thank God, we found anyone not too far off, and not much more expensive too.

(continued this part of the post 2 weeks later.)

I took a break from writing partly due to work, mainly due to lazy.

If you want a full narration of where we went, what time we did things, and what exactly we did, Tim the dodo (link on the side), has done an excellent job. Photos? Same place.. Tim the great…

I thought it’s easier to share my thoughts on these places that I have been to:

1) Grand Canyon

I haven’t lived long, but Grand Canyon must be one of the Grandest (as the name suggest) thing/place that I have ever seenWe took a quick peep on our shuttle bus, but it was only when we stood right in front of it… we felt the full “impact” of the Canyon. The “in your face” feeling was certainly something extremely breathtaking (literally). We were like “WAH!” when we saw the Canyon… . Like what I found many to concur, no one picture or many words can do enough justice to describe how majestic, how brilliant God has shaped this place.

We basically did a hike down to the bottom of the Canyon. What’s the big deal, you might ask. Nothing, it just took us almost 12 hours (with 3 hrs break in-between) to make it down to the bottom. We had to do it with a bagful of food, a load of tent, and the weight of our inexperience. It normally takes abt 4-6 hours for “normal” pple. We struggled, we toiled, we laboured, we suffered, we ached, we (at one stage) kinda regret…. But no one complained, there was always this spirit of togetherness throughout the trip. And especially when we stopped for a rest, there was always things to talk about, positive things to say… (bar some not so positive comments on Tim)…

To be honest, I wouldn’t have wanted to do this tough and torturous trip with anyone else….. I was happy despite all the “hardship”.

The upward journey was much easier. There could be several reasons… we are mentally better prepared, the route was easier, we had more time (not that we wanted to take more time than others). We were able to have more fun, take more photos…

One good thing about such journeys… the view is always good… the feeling is great too… with Canyon all around you… I love it! I re-discovered the “nature” part of me. Cant wait to go back again.

The rest… to come..

Photos from our Summer Vacation Part 3

2006-07-29T20:23:00.000-07:00

http://www.imagestation.com/album/pictures.html?id=2104277990

Great photos from Tim... the great...

(beware who reads your blog... becareful what you say about them.)

Tulsa Bao

2006-07-29T20:18:00.000-07:00

No no… I am not missing the Tau Sa Bao in Singapore… I am just trying to be farnie, but making up some other names with the name of the city that I am in.

It’s my first business trip out of town since I got to Houston. Not the most exciting trip by any standard, but a different experience nevertheless. Staying in the hotel, waking up to a rental car, easy access to the swimming pool and the gymnasium without having to worry about the lack of towels…

This is a fairly small city, of supposedly 600,000 people. Still, it has most basic amenities: lotsa hotels, shopping centers, eateries, highways… etc. One interesting thing to note is that it seemed to be a predominantly white city. I almost do not see any blacks, Asians or Hispanics around.

Besides the cultural make-up, I think it is the American City that I have vision before I got to Houston. It is similar to Naperville, where I was, one year ago.

Overall, it has been a pleasant experience, which was made better by my short shopping exploits. I managed to get 2 polo t-shirts for a RELATIVELY cheaper price.

Do I think I will get back here on my own? Hmm… NO!

As what my manager said…. “Who goes to Oklahoma?” (With all due respect)

How hard it is to leave someone behind

2006-07-23T22:30:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you get a good week; sometimes you get a bad one.

Last week was not the best we have had so far. Things were not going as well as we have hoped.

I feel that at times like this, when we are most Vulnerable, when we are Simply down, I should be with that someone close.

But it was not meant to be. I had to travel ona job for the first time since i came.

I never have been so Reluctant to leave that Some one behind (think Europe, Vietnam, Taiwan and Chicago).......

This time, I was not ready to leave. I wanted to be there, i wanted to be the ear that is listening, i wanted to be that mouth that is offering solutions, I wanted to be that comforting arm, assuring voice, calming presence.... I just wanted to be everything that I can be.... Everything that she wants me to be……

Since it did not turn out to be what I have wished, I tried to spend the last moments with her, before leaving with a heavy heart.

All i could do is to promise…. I will be back as soon I can be… dearie..

Photos from our Summer Vacation

2006-07-19T21:16:00.000-07:00

From tim's camera... inferior, nevertheless still something.

Album one:

http://www.imagestation.com/album/pictures.html?id=2104290506&code=23180020&mode=invite&DCMP=isc-email-AlbumInvite

Album two:

http://www.imagestation.com/album/pictures.html?id=2104287335&code=23152558&mode=invite&DCMP=isc-email-AlbumInvite

Dont be appalled by the lack of quality... you pple are spoilt by me... haha..

I am Singaporean... my version

2006-07-16T00:54:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Mr Brown... this is my version

I am a Singaporean

I lived in the United States for 6 months now, and miss home all the time… despite having shorter work hours, earning more, having a car to drive… I would rather be at home…

I speak decent English, hence the Americans can understand me, but they can tell that I am a foreigner from my accent.

I miss Laksa, Char Kuay Teow, and Hokkien Mee.

I used to meet up with friends to la kopi and watch soccer on weekends.

I think movie tickets are expensive, but I bought them as there aren’t many other things to do.

I used to go to JB for seafood and some cheap shopping one every few months.

I went to a neighborhood school, and managed to complete a certain level of education.

I lived in a HDB flat all my life, and learnt to like it.

I took LRT in Singapore because they stopped the bus service in my neighbourhood which was running effectively.

I served the Army for 2 years 4 months, but never regretted that. Never blamed the government despite the tears and the time that it took… and agreed that it was necessary

When I meet someone new here, I tell them I am from Singapore, not from China… and I am proud of it…

simply because… I am a Singaporean.

I am Singaporean

2006-07-14T09:43:00.000-07:00

I was reading Rockson's post... his first in two months.

And once again... it's a great post.

If you are a Singaporean... with not just the Singapore passport... but with the Singaporean heartbeat... hear Mr Bown's "I am Singaporean" http://www.mrbrown.com/blog/2006/07/browncast_i_am_.html

If u dont mind slightly less polite languages... you can read rockson too
http://rockson.blogspot.com/

Support them....

A note to my love

2006-07-14T09:10:00.000-07:00

Was reading a couple's blog. Saw a love poem written from the boy friend... so i got motivated and went to search for one nice one... so I could dedicate it to my love...

Please know that I didnt write this... but with time... I am sure i can... nevertheless... this truly reflects my heartbeat....

Enjoy....

I once had a heart
and it was true,
but now it's gone
from me to you.

so take care of it
as I have done
because now you have two
and I have none.

It's been a while since we are together. I hope my love for my love will carry on.... burning as fiercely as it has always been.

Pray for me...

Photos of our long weekend trip

2006-06-23T14:42:00.000-07:00

I know it's hard to catch me in "ugly shots".... and I have tasked Thinmonkey to do the unenviable task of catching my in "ugly" expressions... please do not think those shots taken of me are candid... they are not!!!!!!!!! (shucks... am I giving myself away...)

Ok lah... they are candid shots... I had a great laugh myself.... have fun going through the photo..

http://www.imagestation.com/album/pictures.html?id=2105836813

True holidays... coming

2006-06-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

At work now, yet not working… such a conflicting situation to be in…

Since there’s nothing much for me to worry over at work.. I should update what’s exciting in my life NOW NOW NOW (quote from Kee… again :p)

In exactly 17 hours… or thereabout, I will be flying out of Houston… Exciting!! (Not because I am the last one to take a flight out of Houston amongst the Singaporeans) It’s because… WE ARE HEADING TO GRAND CANYON!!!

This place has never been on the “MUST GO” place… but I have always had it at the back of my mind…. Hoping that when I am in the States, I will be able to visit it. We will also be visiting Las Vegas, LA plus theme parks, San Franc, Yosemite National Park… sounds exciting? IT IS!

As at now, my bag is not packed…

The blog prob wont be updated for AT LEAST 18 days… but share my joy… I am finally going traveling… (as Chris described me… when it comes to traveling, my enthusiasm yi wan (ten thousand- a malaychinese slang for large quantity/great volume))

I will have fun I am sure… and as Cantona would have put it… WATCH THIS SPACE

NBA finals.... Heats blazed their way to the first ever NBA Championship... otherwise known as World Champion

2006-06-21T21:44:00.000-07:00

NBA finals was played on Tueday, 6/20/06...... This year's playoffs has been a memorable one for me... more becoz of the fact that I managed to catch a good 70% of the matches, than the fact the my fav team, Miami Heats won the title.

Backgrd: Most pple know that I am an avid football fan... but actually I am a great spectator sports fan... and NBA is one of the more followed after sports that i watch even back when i was in Singapore. It has been a sport that I used to watch more when i was younger... due to the reduction in coverage in Singapore (Starhub sux!!), we can only get games on Friday and Saturday morning... impossible..

As we all know, NBA is huge in America... like all American sports (how in the world can they not watch FOOTBALL... the biggest game in the world!! This is America after all)... And one of the most delightful thing that has happened to me since I am here, in terms of spectator sports, is the telecast of NBA playoffs. EVERY SINGLE GAME is telecast live on TV. If you have the time to watch it, it is there!

And this year's playoff is one of the most exciting ever... many series went to the full 7 game... and there was a record number of games that went to OT... the thrill and excitement generated by the game is unrivalled... (except football of coz!)

As a Heats fan... I was plotting my way all the way to the NBA finals, even at the start of the playoffs. I do expect Heats to go all the way to the finals.. for the simple reason that they have some excellent stars.. past and present... Gary Payton, Alonoso Mourning, Antoine Walker, Shaq.... and of coz the biggest star, and the finals MVP... Dwayne Wade...

A few interesting note on the road to the Finals

1) San Antonio LOSE!!!

Spurs, actually it's more Tim Duncan, has been the achilles heel of Shaq... and lakers of late... the team always, imho, raise their games against shaq's team... him being my fav player for a while... makes Spurs my least fav team... it is an excellent team... if only they play with shaq, more than against him...

I didnt want Spurs to go to the finals... and they were duely disposed by Dallas Mavericks... actually single handedly destroyed by Dirk Nowitzki... simply the most brilliant guy I ever seen play the game since Michael Jordan... he simply shoots from any awkward position, and SCORES.... simply simply brilliant!!

Most games in the series were decided by a couple of points... and a couple went into OT... seriously exciting... in the end, it went to game 7... AGAIN! And at the home court of Spurs... they lost the series in their home court... For the first time in a long time!!

2) Detroit in the conference finals...

The funny thing abt NBA teams... they want to meet the team that beat them the year before... and BEAT THEM! Pistons beat Heats last year when Heats was the favourite...(from 3-2 down) this year, with 4 all-stars in their team... they had the favourites tag... until of coz King James pushed them to game 7... thanks James.. you are the best... (Heats won their series in 5... thanks to Vince Carter)

Imagine a team of 4 all-star, and the fifth is tayshuan price who can play 48 minutes per game. Super team.... who plays very much like a team... like a commentator said before... the sum of the team is greater than the sum of the individual parts.

But Heats has traded Antonie Walker to square off against Rashid Wallace, and I know they want to play Pistons and beat them!

When the conference finals came... they were not up to it... and lost in 6.... quite easily done.

3) 7 game series...

Lotsa 7-game series this year... many by Phoenix Suns... one of the most exciting teams to watch... love them...

4) Dirk Nowitzki

Simply brilliant... If Heats didnt make it to the finals.. I would have supported him. The impossible shots made... the 50 pt game against Spurs... the almost perfect FT... the humility and passion... he was everything I want to see in a professional athlete.

The reason why Heats should win

Last chance for Gary Payton... a 7 or 8 time All Star... excellent player... who went to Lakers to win a ring, but becoz of Kobrat Bratyant... didnt... (at least he has got it now... Karl Malone should beat up Kobrat when he sees him)

Alonoso Mourning... a soon-to-be hall of famer... no NBA ring like GP... super humble guy... came back from kidney disease... such a role model for pple... 16th season in NBA

Antoine Walker.... was a key player in his former teams... came here to win the ring...

Shaq... my fav player... this is good enough reason for him to win a ring

Wade... next up coming fav player... even better reason for him to win the ring.

The FINALS itself...

Lost first 2 games in Dallas.... only 2 teams in NBA HISTORY has won after being 2-0 down in NBA finals!!

3rd game... with 6 min plus to go... trailing by 13 pts... I gave up... went to prepare my following day's lunch... No teams have come back from 3-0 down... they wont. Heat pull up a good run... suddenly within distance...

Closing min... took lead... and won!

5th game... once again... it looked like Mavs will steal one game at Miami...

Somehow pushed to OT!! And Heats won! Lead 3-2

6th game... close again... last seconds... 93-90.. Wade (80%+ FT shooter) took 2 Ft... MISSED BOTH!!! WTF!!!!

Jason Terry took the last s3-pt shot.... MISSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSED!!!

MIAMI HEATS.... WORLD CHAMPION......... FIRST TIME in franchise history...

What a game... i am totally NBA fan... of coz for the rest of last night... now? Back to Football.. and world cup..

The weekend (Part 3b).. the financial hell come true

2006-06-14T16:38:00.000-07:00

Despite letting in 2 goals early in the game… I continue strut along towards my favourite shop… a place where there’s always something for everyone… Timberland!!

After narrowly missing the replacement for my old, 4 year running sports sandal shoe from adidas, AT ADIDAS… I am determined that the 4 year wait for the replacement should end today… more becoz of the need to protect my feet from the strenuous terrains of Grand Canyon, which I will be in, in two weeks’ time, then the urge for shopping….

I stepped in, full of confidence… and once again…. Timberland saw my need, and met it! One pair of walking, trekking, sports, covered shoes… for a mere US$50… You wont find this price in Singapore, I assure you… and another wallet for $5…. (eh… when did I need a wallet?) The wallet was becoz, we needed to buy $100 to get 15% discount I think, so the wallet that cost $10, now only cost us an incremental cost of $5… can act as spare wallet mah… clever hor?

We are not even 1 quarter through, and the last count, I have spent $200 on things that I do not need!!

But how can anyone say no to Quicksilver/Roxy? Not US….. Zing and I went across the garage (also know as CAR PARK) to the Quicksilver store… I never bought a Authentic Board Shorts (Authentic means Quicksilver… the rest are all poor imitations) becoz they are really expensive for so little material… but we all know people pay good money for the style, more than the amount of cloth.. While it cost about S$60 in Singapore (I think), it only cost US$25 here… WHY NOT? I also got myself a shirt… never done that in Singapore… becoz I never want to pay more than $40 for a short sleeve shirt… the cost? US$20!!

Chirp chirp chirp!!

Finally… almost time to concede defeat….. (for wuss like Thinmonkey… yes… ) NO! not until we conquer another sports store… Reebok… I always wanted to own one NBA jersey… maybe Shaq, maybe Lebron James, maybe Garnett….. So I was always looking for bargains… Usually these jerseys are only suitable for those who actually wear them… not for small Asians like me… So I gave up after a while… but out of the blue.. (the why didn’t I think of that moment) I thought, if the adult size are super big… then wouldn’t the kids size fit me?

I tried it on… and it fits… one cost US$36 after discount… not too expensive… considering that usually one will cost US$60 or more… and I got 2… due to some discounts, the 2nd one is $26… very cheap..

Why two? I was deciding between McGrady and Bryant… both excellent players… while I think Bryant is better, I can only go to Rockets games… so I got both!

Day completed? No… not before dinner.. (at $2.50 per person… why do pple save on necessities and splurge on materials things? We are urbanites after all… driven by material wants…) And of course… the long drive home…

We reached home at 11pm… before the start of another work day… A satisfied customer… just US$350 poorer…

The weekend (Part 3a).. the inevitable trip to financial hell

2006-06-14T16:25:00.000-07:00

Day 4… the inevitable… much awaited… much fear (financially)… TRIP TO SAN MARCOS OUTLET MALLS!!!

Background: One of the best loved things about the US is the outlet malls. Do you get cheap things here? NO! Do you get RELATIVELY cheap BRANDED goods here? YES! And San Marcos must be the mother of all outlet malls, aka factory outlets…. It is made up of Prime Outlet and Tanger Outlet… and is so huge that I was unable complete one of the two malls after one full day of shopping!!!!

The thing about shopping… it’s always about relativity… do you need it? NO… Is it relatively cheaper, which makes buying it worthwhile? A lot of times… YES! For a lot of things… YES!

Despite the appeal of shopping, the one I love, me, Tim and Sharpie set out for the malls pretty late in the morning… about 11. This is my 2nd trip here, but I have never set foot on the “Tanger Mall” part of San Marcos (San Marcos is the town/city, we call it San Marcos because these malls are located there, and they are probably the most well known things there) before…. After hearing so much about it… I cant wait to begin my adventure.

Below are the results of battles:

First up… Adidas outlet… Nike is never cheap… Reebok is never nice.. Adidas is a good “in-between”… you can occasionally find good deals… it’s never a waste of effort…

So HERE it is… the first defeat of the day… A pair of shoes that I don’t need… Something which is similar to what I have… but still… at 25% plus another 15% discount… who dare pass it up… so I got it… for a mere US$29 (S$46).

Justification: Why did I buy? It’s cheaper than what I would have paid… I wanted to buy something that cost abt US$50… so it’s worth it… (not convinced? More to come)

After roaming around, and getting my stomach filled, with cheap food… and lotsa free refills of drinks… it’s time for the hunter to move on..

Not long after… the hunter became the hunted… at a shoe outlet… some funny name it is called… My current 10 mth old Renoma Dress shoe will not serve me any longer… it’s successor has to be found… and it has to be found HERE!

Good things comes in pairs… and I bought a pair of pair of shoes… (sounds confusing… actually it’s two pairs of shoes) One may ask… how many pairs can u wear to work at one time? One..? (Girls will tell you that the answer is 1 divided by 0… infinite)

I bought a nice, dark brown, plain looking shoe…. With a little extra leather in front (a bit of pattern… if not always kenna complain that my shoes all look the same… ) It’s the Shoe that will serve my working needs…

The other… Still brown (why 2 pairs of brown?...… Answer: WHY NOT? "Quote from peng)… it’s slightly more flashy… a little bit more pattern… something that I always wanted to buy… since 1 pair for $60, and 2 for $100… I needed one…. so the 2nd one is effectively only $40!! So Chirp chirp chirp….

(Quote from Ng Eng Juan: THE MORE YOU BUY, THE MORE YOU SAVE!!)

Side note: At least it’s cheaper than 3 for $179… which I would not fork out to buy… let alone 1 for $179, or for that matter, $210 (sorry kee.. it’s you!)

News flash... An adventure on the road this morning

2006-06-05T10:56:00.000-07:00

I hate to interrupt my 3rd installment of my weekend trip... but there's a more urgent need to report on a frightening experience this morning on the way to work.... here's the story..

Adventure this morning…

Backgrd: Every morning, I am require to travel abt 30+ miles (approx 50km) to get to work. I will be on my favourite highway, Highway 59, which has recently been expanded. As a result of this, my trip to my client’s has always been a breeze… and I have always declared myself as a big fan of this highway… you can have as many as 5 lanes… and travel at an average speed of 65mph… However, I never advocate speeding due to the number of speeding tickets I see people I know got.

This morning… I took Highway 59 again… and did what I usually do… travel at abt 70mph (limit is 60, but almost all vehicles travel at 70). I am usually on the lane beside the left extreme passing lane (overtaking lane). When I see someone traveling below 70, I will pass him on the passing lane (usually at 80-85mph… so that I can pass him faster, and it’s “safer”).

I was usually conscious of the road shoulders on the left, where police cars ambush speed limit violators… I was traveling upslope at abt 85mph, and when the road turned downwards, I SAW A POLICEMAN there!! I immediately slowed down to 75… or abt 70… when I saw that the policeman did not get into his car to come after me, I felt a sense of relief…

About a min later, I was traveling at the average car speed of 70mph at that time, I saw police car on my right as I turned my head in that direction. The police officer seemed to have gestured something in a downward action…. I was sure he asked me to stop….

*SAD*… I cant believe my luck… I told myself not to speed… at least not to do it in the left most lane!! There was a sour taste in my mouth, literally… I hated and thoroughly regretted my actions… at least US$100 gone… or more… plus time wasted….

But to my greater surprise, the policeman sped away… I thought to myself… if he had wanted me to stop, he would not have sped to the front of my car… then I thought again… maybe he was just trying to pull to the right…

I waited another min to see the course he was taking… by then… he was far far away…. I knew I was save… Thank God… I felt like I had won a price, strike lottery (or 4-D)…. I thank God for that… if not for his blessings… my whole day would have been a sad one… (I think whole week at least)…

Happily stayed within the speed limit all the way to work… THANK GOD!

The weekend (Part 2).. A trip to Schlitterbahn

2006-06-03T23:59:00.000-07:00

A little tired now... so cant recall as well as I would have a few days ago...

The 3rd day of our weekend is a trip to world famous... (actually just famous in the States... but somehow they always like to think that USA is THE WORLD... pardon their ignorance..) Water Theme Park.... Voted best water theme park for 5 years in a row (i wonder where the judges are from)... SCHLITTERBAHN- New Braunfels...

Backgrd: New Braunfels is a City that is 30-45mins away from San Antonio which we were based. Due to its sheer size, the park is located in this place, not too far from SA. The park is divided into East and West, I think it is due to its expansion from its original park....

Anyway... it is a water theme park of many exhilarating rides.... many of these rides, especially the renowned MASTER BLASTER are fun and exciting... and probably wont be seen in Singapore.

After having experience the thrill of Six Flags Fiesta the day before.... we were ready for even more great adventure..... And as we have expected from this great park, everything was here... while it did not have the adrenaline rush of the roller coasters from previous day, it was fun filling in its own way. The best thing about the rides is, it does not make you dizzy, hence we were able to go on and on without having any proper breaks in-between.

We reached the place at 945, right before its opening and 10am... and we did not stop until they stopped all the rides at 745pm. We all were able to enjoy most of the rides and had a super fun day in the sun...

Some of the rides worth mentioning are:

MASTER BLASTER: This is a water ride which has the ability to "blast" you upwards, and was voted the BEST water ride in America many times over. Due to the long lines (otherwise known as queues), we did not waste our time waiting in lines more than once. It was fun and interesting, but nowhere near what I got from SUPERMAN...

Bogie Bahn: This is a man-made surfing ride... it allows us (notice I didnt say we were able) to surf on the "tide" with a surf board... pretty cool.... of coz... i didnt last 2 secs... before i could say "AHHHHHHHHHHH...", I was off my board... what a wuss (as tim would have put it)

Lazy pool... there were several lazy pools around... some are simply for floating purposes, while some has "slides" built in... I tried to slide down backwards as much as I can.. to make the rides more interesting... it resulted in me flipping and hitting the back of my head on one occasion... I suffered more ache in my ego than my head... so all's well...

Overall... we had a wonderful time... I would say better value than Six Flags due to the fact that we were able to do most rides as a whole grp... It's a pity we were not able to take much pictures as we did not have any waterproof cameras...

Totally recommend anyone who visits this region to go for it!

Time for the final part of my trip... a whole different experience...

SAN MARCOS FACTORY OUTLETS!

The weekend (Part 1)... A litte long winded..

2006-05-31T20:28:00.000-07:00

After a long wait... I finally got my first long weekend in the States... in fact, it's the first public holiday that my firm has since I joined.My firm has very cleverly consolidated the 4 of the 10 (pathetic) holidays in the year with the other 4 public holidays to give us 4 4-day long weekends, except for Christmas and New Year. Hence we didn't go for any holidays until the weekend before. And it was certainly a super weekend packed with fun filled activities.

The weekend lasted from Friday till Monday. and on Friday, we woke up at 6am (are we crazy!!) so that we can set off by 630am.

First up was tubing. it was merely flowing down a slow river on a rubber tire. Since we have not seen water/river/sea for ages, this was an exciting journey down the river. Time 11am... While we are nearing Summer, the water was deceivingly freezing... i bet it must be 10-15 degrees C as we jump in... for once.. we appreciate the heat from the sun...It soon became a slow and painful process, as a combination of neck ache and the impact from the cold water turned the short 4 hours ride into somewhat like a endless road to nothingness.Finally at abt 3pm, (the person told us that the trip will last 5-7 hrs.. I am glad it didn't last that long) we got to the finished line.

While I must say that the journey was interesting and I would say it's recommended, the lack of movement in the river and the temperature of the water made the journey less enjoyable than expected. I did have my fair share of fun in the river. We left thereafter to check into out hotel. A room for 2 person (at most 4), but booked for 6 pple. Doesn't matter, we will survive. We headed towards San Antonio downtown for our dinner.

Once again, back to the beautiful Riverwalk. We had our dinner at Casa Rios, the same place as before. (boring boring... that's me). I would have hoped that Thinmonkey and Sharpie would walk around more, since it's their first time there. Nonetheless, they were either unimpressed, or too paiseh (feeling bad) about making us walk with them, and we take off to go back to our hotel soon after. I am sure they did not see the same river walk that I saw... me... I was seriously impressed and totally fell in love with the place... they? unmoved. The trip back to the hotel (actually we stayed in a Inn) was a short one, and everyone quickly rushed to get ready for bed, and more importantly, the big day to SIX FLAGS FIESTA!!!

"The day" is finally here. Just a brief background, Six Flags is an organisation with Theme parks all over the States, and even in Mexico. Its Theme Parks are well known for being extremely exciting. Since the park opens at 10am, it's only human nature (I used to say being typical Singaporean, but I realised people here are also kiasu), we got there at abt 930, ready to make full use of every cent of the $45 we paid, for the season pass. First up, SUPERMAN... it's an exhilarating ride, no floor board, magnificent structure, great adrenalin rush... worth it! We took other rides too... all were good... but, in my opinion, none beats SUPERMAN (and I must say the opinion is divided amongst us).

Most are roller coaster rides, and the one that I will not go back to is The Rattler. This is the old fashion roller coaster built on wooden structure. While the excitement is no less than the others, the pain it inflict on my physical being far outweigh the joy it gave to the mental one..... becoz of the wooden structure, the seat moves greatly from side to side while on the ride. Hence it resulted in Zing having this Orh Cheen (blue black) under her arm. The pain from hitting the sides caused more distress than the downward rush of the roller coaster.

It was a hard day as we rushed from one ride to another, and by 2pm, most of us were beaten by the spinning effect of the rides. Sad to say, We had to call a stop to the rides. Being me, I had to go for a second round of the rides in order to thoroughly enjoy the park. So I had to jio the "always wanna have fun" Thinmonkey along... to the SUPERMAN... this time round, i got a seat on the front row!! The experience is definitely a better one... I managed to see and expreience fully the whole part of the ride... which makes it more enjoyable... and once again.. SUPERMAN did not fail me... I declared myself a satisfied customer...

Oh yes... this Theme Park, Six Flags Fiesta, is more well known for the shows... in fact, it won the "best show" award for one of its shows. We had to stay for one, not the award winning one though. It was a laser display, talking abt the story of Texas.. and ended with some nice fireworks... it is always easy to enjoy fireworks displays... we love it... some hoped for more... I was.... hmm... still... Satisfied.. Ready for day 3!!

Project Money Saver

2006-05-25T10:18:00.000-07:00

After two rather serious and heavy post previously, i decided that i better post something that is more of me.... something less heavy (not me.. i am heavy)... and something light....

It's about a part of this ongoing project, call "Project Money Saver".... The project is, as the name suggests, a project to save money... (duh!)...

And one integral part of this project is..... my lunch!!

Since I have been on the current engagement (abt 5 weeks back), I have tried to bring lunch frequently (abt 3 weeks out of 5)... to the "me" from Singapore, bringing lunch to work is a big "no-no". *Where got time to cook? Bring lunch, so ma fan (troublesome), just buy lah! How must only(singlish accent)?*

But since I got here, I have been doing the Math everyday... the figures simply do not add up... while I earn more here, I do actually have less... (frustrating irony)... So the solution to this frustration is.... be a GIAM KANA (see footnote A). I decided to bring lunch when i saw that my senior, a Filiphino, is also bringing lunch to save money... What's the big deal you might ask... US$7-10 is THE big deal... as opposed to bringing my own lunch... I probably spend abt $5-7 extra each day... it all adds up...

So I had the wonderful idea of cooking double portion for dinner (when I was having dinner alone), and saving half of that for lunch the next day. I even had to invest in a set of containers (only $2) for this part of "Project Money Saver". The very next day, I simply have to heat up my lunch in the microwave... it is also healthier than having the sandwiches and the fried stuff in the deli (like canteen).

Here's a look at my lunch for today:

It may be a little difficult to see. On the left, I have cut Chicken thighs stir fried with dried chilli and ginger, and on the right i have my staple, rice, with greens, brocolli with oyster sauce.

Looks simple.... it's simply delicious... (and my mum always tells me... dont force yourself to eat your own lunch just to save money.... I didnt force myself to eat... i like my lunch... haha)

Here's a look at the aftermath:

ALL CLEANED UP! eh... except a bit of vegge, i cooked more than I could finish....

But it's all fun... and I think it's a big money saver....

FOOTNOTE A:

Giam kana

Pronunciation: 'kiä-am\m-ga&nar

Function: noun

A person who is unusually thrifty. This person will choose the cheapest meat when there are more expensive ones. He will drive to another supermarket, just because the chicken thighs cost $1.80 for 4 large parts (when the present one cost $3).... he will see where is the cheapest petrol and die die try to refuel there... he will think of different permutations and combinations to maximise any additional benefit that he receives... He is me... and He will start the great "PROJECT MONEY SAVER"...

2006-05-23T22:19:00.000-07:00

The world Cup is coming....

Recently, I found out from a friend that Mediacorp is screening just FOUR pathetic matches only. Background knowledge: Opening, semis, and finals. 4 years ago, they showed matches from the quarter finals... before that, alot more..

I was quite pissed by the fact that the Broadcasters are milking the less well off Singaporeans... And it was outrageously obvious to me that the fault lies with the broadcasters, whom, in my opinion, had a choice, and chose to milk the powerless consumers (in a monopolised industry)

The first thought I had was to post it on my regular online forum, Clubsnap. While I received many one liner agreeing with my post, there was this particular member who thoroughly opposed to my idea...

My first response... bring him down... little did i know that he is some kind of a linguist.. use many cheem words, and extreme situations to change the whole focus of the discussion...

I retaliated.... he wrote back... I was adamant that I am correct.... that was until I saw other posts supporting his view too (and I believe both of them are wrong)... haha..

anyway... the supporting post made me stood back and look at myself... I often hope that some genuine fren will tell me about my actions... like I told someone close, I often engaged in discussions when i feel strongly about things... and when I feel strongly about things, it's usually when I feel I am right... though at the end of it, you sometimes feel silly that you actually didnt see the flip side of things... But nobody goes into a discussion knowing that he is wrong... he is usually convinced that he is right, until proven otherwise..

The events above made me realise how we lose ourselves sometimes in arguments... like what a Pastor said before... when everyone else appears to be wrong... it's time to look at who is actually wrong..

For me, as a rule of thumb, whenever there's a second opinion against mine... I will start to examine (not doubt) my stand... am I taking it too far? Am I taking the extreme stand? or simply.. Am I wrong?

Just a note for my thoughts....

Still busy at work, no time for quality post.... going for first public holidays this long weekend!!

For the benefit of those who are interested in my discussion in the forum, the link is here:
http://forums.clubsnap.org/showthread.php?t=196876

General Election 2006!

2006-05-09T16:22:00.000-07:00

As the whole of Singapore knows, the GE was on 5/5/06. This GE, unlike the previous one, was more keenly contested. For me, there was a whole greater meaning.... I seriously didnt think much abt politics in Singapore during the last election. Furthermore, I was in Dragon Lee's ward... who would think that there will be suicide squads in Singapore...

This time round, despite being miles away from home, I followed the happenings with more interest. While I didnt read the news daily, I did keep up with the major happenings... (on Gomes' adventure, and the "fixing" promise of his truly).

I must say I was rooting for the opposition, especially the seemingly more credible WP. I think it's high time for an alternative voice... not a whimper from someone within the same party, not two or three cats meowing... but at least have 5-6 dogs barking (didnt mean to insult anyone)... so much that we can put up the sign "BEWARE OF DOGS" to the ruling party...

The whole experience was enhanced by a few blogs that I read, that I feel, did a better job at presenting the different perspectives of the parties involved in election, than our Channel (PAP) News Asia, and Media (pardon my language) Cock Suker.....

I have always know that press in Singapore is very much controlled, and that we always should try to expose ourselves to views outside local sources. However, due to the nature of the country (only a small red dot), I didnt see much news that concerns Singapore. Thanks to the Internet, we are now able to explores other sources within Singapore... the voices of People like you and me... obviously people who can write better... with views that are not slanted too much to one side....

The blogs that I am impressed with are sg Election 06 and rockson. From these blogs, i found out how the media in Singapore refuses to recognise the large crowd that visit the opposition rallies... and how much of an opposition basher it is (out of 10 pieces of news regarding election.... 9 on how good PAP is doing... the tenth on how poor opposition is).

A few funny articles concerning the "fixing" that PM wanted to do made the articles less difficult to digest....

There are a few issues that raises my concerns too... being a Singaporean who reads a decent bit about the election when it is near.... I am always read about the carrot that are dangled in the opposition wards. The $80 mil upgrading... the $100mil improvements.

I used to think...it's all dirty politics... none of my concern. It's only in one of these articles that i read that opened my eyes.... the "$80 mil" and "$100 mil"..... arent these the money of Singaporeans? Are these the funds of PAP, such that they can use it to their advantage? Are they actually using our money to dictate what they want us to do? I felt a bit unjust, and despite not living anywhere near these two opposition wards, I feel victimised by the ruling party...

That being said... I must admit that (and I never stop telling Americans I meet) PAP has done a brilliant job in bringing the country to where it is... how can a country that is smaller than Houston be that developed, be that advance... and all the good things that there is..

However, it may come a time when alternative voice is desired... not in a disruptive way (such that the PM must spend ALL HIS TIME fixing), but in a way that reduce the possibility of NKF happening... that will stop Straits times from increasing the price from 60cts to 80cts without giving true accountability to the public... that the transport companies will think hard before they raise the fare again... (I think it's due to that stupid TV... I watch it though... hehe)

I would like to quote my ex-colleague, now a friend, 6% of Aljunied, YOU COULD HAVE CHANGED SINGAPORE! While I think it's brought to a little extreme....I somewhat was hoping Aljunied is lost... It's more of my support for a opposing voice, than being against whoever PAP has placed in the GRC...

I certainly hope Sylvia Lim will do a good job as an NMP... and increase her profile such that she can be a full MP in the next election. I hope the government will not resort to dirty politics to bring her down (fat hope!) as she seems like a decent Singaporean...

Like one blog described people like me... "educated, but lost heart... lost hope... so couldnt care less about politics in my own country"....

I hope this could signal a return of hope and heart for pple like me....

Busy busy busy

2006-05-09T09:24:00.000-07:00

Been rather busy lately….

Work has been good… filled with things to do… 6 days a week…

Colleagues are nice. Client is good too….

But working overseas will always have its limitations. You are after all, A FOREIGNER. You look different, talks differently, think in a different way… and definitely shares different kinda jokes..

Thank God, I have been blessed with rather understanding colleagues and superiors.

I wish I am less lazy to write more… but the truth is… I am not…

Havent been regular on my quiet time…. My excuses is… I have to wake up at 640 each day to try to get to work before 8am… how to stay up late to do quiet time… Bad excuse though…

God, please help me back “on my feet”. One good news to report though… I am going to join a cell group, or small group as it is known to them. It will be awkward initially I am sure, but I hope it will be fun!

Working... the pros and cons

2006-04-18T20:14:00.000-07:00

Cons:
1) You lost the convenience of taking afternoon nap on your bed... now, you can only do it in the toilet...

2) you cant stay up late and chit chat with friends...

Pros:
1) You are useful to people.

2) You learn to be more useful.

3) You are used.

Be happy.... happily tired..

Feeling USED!

2006-04-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

Happy! I know there seems to be a negative connotation to the above topic. But here I am, always like to present another side of things/terms to myself...

This is the first day back at work, after 5.5 weeks of uselessness... I was feeling really excited. Just like I told Zhiying, it felt like going back to school after school holidays in Sec sch/college. I was filled with this eagerness.... so much so that I woke up at 530am instead of the scheduled 7am. Nevermind, time to do some chatting, with frens, then with God....

Mind is a powerful thing, some pple may feel so down, so sianz (Chinese dialect for bored), dread... or even unwilling.... to do the one thing that pple are paying us to do... work! Haha...

I thank God that he gave me the ability to see the positive side of things... the ability to appreciate the torch light in darkness... some pple see the doughnut, some pple see the hole. I am happily feeling used... finally I can polish my audit skills, my excel skill... and of coz interact with colleagues, claim some mileage (not that I want to drive 35 miles to work)....

While I "basket" in this joy of going back on job... (it sounds really funny).... I do appreciate that this intangible thing call "joy" is so fragile. This moment, you have it... the next moment... you may lose it... It may make many pple feel insecure... worried... even start to feel unhappy... But thank God, I know that I wont have to go through this sense of insecurity... Becoz I know I can always call on Jesus... I can always feel secured in Him... I know that IF I CHOOSE to believe that He can make me happy, I will not be unhappy.

I am really proud of being happy. Not proud of the state of mind, but proud of the ability to engage my mind to be in this state. Not proud in the "I look down on you" sense... but proud in the "Thank God I have God" sense... complicated hor...?

God is here to give us to ability.... do you want it? Yes....? you sure....? Wanting it is not merely the use of the mouth... say "I want"... it's also the use of the mind... think "I want"... and the use of the heart... feel "I want"... and Most importantly... Ask for the "I want"... Ask from God... ask with your mouth, with your mind... and with your heart... Seems easy... yet seems so tough... it's only a matter of if you really "want"... or not?