Life through my eyes

What doesn't kill you .... Kelly Clarkson

2011-11-24T00:36:00.006+08:00

What doesn't kill you sung by Kelly Clarkson...

You know the bed feels warmer
Sleeping here alone
You know I dream in colour
And do the things I want

You think you got the best of me
Think you had the last laugh
Bet you think that everything good is gone
Think you left me broken down
Think that I'd come running back
Baby you don't know me, cause you're dead wrong

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone
What doesn't kill you makes a fighter
Footsteps even lighter
Doesn't mean I'm over cause you're gone

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, stronger
Just me, myself and I
What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone

You heard that I was starting over with someone new
But told you I was moving on over you

You didn't think that I'd come back
I'd come back swinging
You tried to break me, but you see

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, stronger
Just me, myself and I
What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone

Thanks to you I got a new thing started
Thanks to you I'm not a broken hearted
Thanks to you I'm finally thinking bout me
You know in the end the day you left was just my beginning
In the end...

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, stronger
Just me, myself and I
What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone

Kelly Clarkson just released her latest album - Stronger ... the songs show that she is back and she is gonna rock it !!! This song is on repeat and I really like the lyrics.... what doesn't kill you makes you stronger !!! Come what may .. I will pick myself up and keep moving on and be stronger from all the experiences in my life ... and it doesn't mean that I am lonely when I am alone.

Soon I will be 40 ......

2011-10-17T15:06:00.002+08:00

I will be hitting 40 end of this month .... a lot physiological changes in my body ... I need reading glasses now ... started to have joint pains ... I can finally identify with my parents ... I learned to be more patient and slow down a bit. My driving is in a more "zen" like state now since I bought my Honda Insight a couple of months back.... I learned to give in a bit more when people cut in the "q" ... at least now I am playing less for petrol ... now it amounts to 9 cents per kilometer... roughly about 20-21 km /L of RON 95 petrol. And I bought a white car which taught me ... to stop focusing on the stone chips from the highway or the tiny black spots when I inspect my car closely ... but when I look from far ... I realized that it is still a brilliant white car.... hence I learned to look more at the goodness of others instead of concentrating on the negative aspects.

And more and more I am reminded that life is short .. just recently ... one of my specialist was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. And today one of my friend's brother in law was suffered a stroke with intra cranial bleed ... scheduled for a craniotomy. Recently been getting chest pains again .... and it always reminds me how fragile life is .... and Steve Jobs died !!!!! So now I remind myself to live life to the fullness with no regrets.

So I guess I will be back to update my blog once a while.... so come walk this journey with me. Cheers!

Life is short

2011-04-11T23:39:00.003+08:00

It saddens my heart that one of my favorite anaesthetic specialist who is also a good friend, Dr Maslina passed away today after being diagnosed with choriocarcinoma after one month. She was about my age and leaves behind a 2 year child and her husband. Life is like that full of surprises ..some good ... some bad.....it is a wake up call for me ... I make plans for 5 years .. 10 years .... but I cannot predict the future .. I might not be around tomorrow. I need to spend more time with my loved ones and dear friends and start living life with no regrets....break free from the protective defenses that I have built up by being a hermit... and just love ... live .... like there is no tomorrow.

I think it is time I change my 10 year old car and start traveling next year to see the world because time waits for no man. And life is precious and worth living. I must learn to treasure every second that God has given me.

A long overdue post before I take a break.....

2011-03-31T00:21:00.005+08:00

Before I finally take my break from this blog .... I want to put up this post as it has been long overdue. Last year in November 2010, I had the privilege of helping out as a medical classifier for the Malaysian National Paralympics.

Sometimes we go thinking we can help them out but in the end they were the ones who helped us out ... with regards to how we see live. That was what happened ... these guys taught me how precious life was and that we need to treasure what we have .... we don't know how good we have it until we lost it. Some of these guys had lost their limbs due to accidents, some congenital, some negligence .... but all of these guys did not allow their handicap to cripple them from living life to the fullest. I for one.... was always looking for something to fill me up ... something to live for .... and these guys taught and made me realized how blessed I was. So in the end they were the ones who picked me up and help me and encouraged me to keep moving on in this journey called LIFE.

Just to share some photos ... I have a lot more ... but will only have time to do so in June... will be busy these next 2 months preparing for my exams.... I hope my last exams... coz my grey cells are dying real fast and my aging heart cannot take anymore stress ... and the sleepless night are bringing more wrinkles to my face :P

So once again .. I bid you guys good bye... and those who I do have contacts in Facebook or who have contacted me via emails etc ... Godwilling .. one day we will meet up and fellowship.

Take care.

It is time to say good bye for now

2011-03-24T18:28:00.003+08:00

Thanks for reading my blog.... but for now ... I think it is time to say good bye....until I am ready to share my life again. A lot of things had happened in my life .... I am glad that I finally found a wonderful church to go to now.... at least there is fellowship. Maybe one day I will be back or maybe this will be just a memory in my life.

No matter what happens ... I wish you guys all the best and life is meant to be lived to the fullest because it is so fragile and short. Most important never forget to love yourself ... coz if you don't love yourself, how are you going to love somebody else.

So I bid you all good bye.

Worthy - Sandi Patty

2011-03-07T09:19:00.001+08:00

What a lovely song from Sandi Patty. It is amazing how God sees me ..with all the self hatred & low self esteem & the feeling that I am not worthy & that I am never good enough..with all the labels that I slap upon myself...He tells me that I am worthy & how He adores me. I am once again smitten by Him and reminded of His unconditional love for me. Yes I am worthy.... I am lovely in His eyes.

A Willing Heart

2011-02-25T00:59:00.003+08:00

WILLING HEART

Words & Music By Kelly Willard
Copyright 1980/willing Heart Music

Once I Stumbled In The Darkness, Doing Only As I Pleased
But I Wasn't Really Happy, And My Heart Was Not At Ease
I Just Didn't Have The Willingness To Follow His Commands
'til I Layed My Heart Completely In His Hands

[chorus]
If You Don't Have A Willing Heart, Ask Him To Give You One
If You Can't Seem To Make A Start, Trust In His Power
For The Lord Of Love Is Watching You
He Sees What You're Going Through
And He Can Make A Way, If You Want Him To
Oh, Do You Want Him To?
Then, Tell Him So

All The Things My Heart Held Onto Only Filled Me With Despair
And The Road That I Was Traveling Never Took Me Anywhere
And I Knew No Satisfaction 'til I Found My Rest In Him
Then He Filled My Heart With Gladness Once Again

[repeat Chorus]

Kelly Willard has always encouraged and ministered to me with her angelic voice and meaningful lyrics. Her songs still give me goose bumps and this is one of the songs. I can't find her CDs here and I have just ordered a couple of CDs from her website . Eagerly awaiting for the CDs to arrive. She was one of the few Christian singers who encouraged during my early life as a Christian back in 1990s. Others were Steve Green, Sandi Patty, Scott Wesley Brown, David Meece ... just to mention a few. .... you can imagine what era I was in. :P

It helps to go back to square one and back to first love when we lost sight of Jesus ... when life overwhelms .... it helps to run back to Jesus. Many times, life does not turn out the way we want to.... I had to learn the hard way... that no matter what happens..my life is in His hands. And doing what I please did not really bring happiness or fulfillment...... true happiness and fulfillment only came when I willingly laid down my heart completely in His hands. And the things I held on to so tightly which I thought gave me my sense of identity and meaning in life only caused me despair until I find my rest in Him alone. Learning to let go was the only way.... but when I learned to let go .. He gave me back so much in return.

Dear Lord.... give me a willing heart.... a heart that yearns and burns for You alone. A heart that runs after You with an unquenchable passion until I see You face to face one day. Amen

The desire to know God

2011-01-21T05:38:00.007+08:00

Taken from "The War Within You by Doug McIntosh"

"The price of doing wrong is higher than we know, for the difficult process for those of us who are Christians is keeping our hearts thirsty. We must want to know God. We must have a longing for Him. we must long to be close to Him and please Him. When we refuse to obey, we not only have the disobedience of the moment to deal with, but we also weaken our heart's motivation. We wound that precious desire, our hunger and thirst for God, in a small way - and that desire is the greatest possession any believer has. God has made us to be lovers at the deepest level of our being. His most common expression of disappointment in the Old Testament is His oft-repeated accusation that Israel was committing spiritual adultery by worshiping idols. He knew that Israel's spiritual success, as well as our own, begins when believers refuse to follow the siren song of other gods and cleave only to Him."

I have been reading this book when I am ahem ahem doing my morning business in the toilet (this is when I have to time to read undisturbed and un-distracted). I have found a nice small church to go in Kota Kemuning.... a warm church and I have been hanging out with the pastor and some of the members after church. I have been searching for a church to go to for many years and God's timing is perfect .. never too early or too late.

The truth is that the past few years, I have given my heart away to many distractions ... seeking to feel wanted and loved but in the end these had failed me and taken my heart for a ride .. promising words of love and faithfulness but in the end that very heart which spoke the words of love was the very one which broke my heart into a million pieces and shattered me. I had pushed God aside and sang my songs of love to other gods which in the end only seek to consume me for their own selfish needs ... when I was no longer wanted .. I was chucked aside like garbage. It was a humbling experience for me that in the end, only God remains. My frantic pursuit to be complete can only be found in God alone. God had never ceased to amaze me ... how He waited with arms opened wide ... longing for me to run back to Him..... He never got bored of me or gave me a cold shoulder and never made me feel that I am good for nothing... never. He had seen all of me and still wanted me.

I now know that the ties had to be severed in order to open my eyes to what I was putting myself through and for the healing to begin. I had prayed that God will remove anything which come in the way between God and me and it was a painful process but much needed before I was in too deep. And what I read in the book made me realized that my hunger, desire and passion to long for God was channeled wrongly.... I did not know that I had drifted so far away from God. Now I realized my folly to give my heart away to other gods instead of God, the Lover of my soul. I am on the path to healing ... I will never be the same again ... the wound had been inflicted too deep and scars will remain but my eyes are set on God alone now. May my desire and hunger be for God alone. Amen

Free - by MercyMe

2011-01-10T22:09:00.005+08:00

Free - by MercyMe

I look around, inside these four walls
And I can see this is not my home
Can you hear it now, from inside these stone walls?
My heart cries out, I'm not where I belong

No matter what they do
My heart belongs to you
I'm free
Oh the hands that hold the world have set me free
He has broken every chain
So I lift my hands up to the One who saves

Take me captive, you can lock me away
But my debt is already payed
Take me prisoner, but I will not fear
'Cause my deliverer is already here

No matter what they do
My heart belongs to you
I'm free
Oh the hands that hold the world have set me free

He has broken every chain
So I lift my hands up to the One who saves

This world can have its way
Nothing can stop Your glory
What may become of me
I'll over come

Because I'm free
Oh the hands that hold the world have set me free
He has broken every chain
So I lift my hands up to the One who saves
And I lift my hands up to the One who saves

And I am free
Oh these chains won't hold me
And I am free

This song by MercyMe had been ministering to me while I drive to work. I am reminded that God had set me free and the chains that used to bound me before He came into my life are broken. The past has no hold over me. I am amazed at God's timing ..... He came into my life when I needed Him the most.

Promises

2011-01-02T23:26:00.004+08:00

Promises ..... such an easy word to say. We make all sorts of promises to others .... sometimes just to get what we want .. and how often do we keep our promises.... do we still remember our promises. I promise that I will love you. I promise that I will remain by your side. I promise that we will be together forever. I promise ... I promise ....... promises are just empty words spoken if not followed through.

I was amazed at the fact that God still kept His promise after 42 generations as stated in the bible with the birth of Jesus to save mankind. Wow if one generation lasts for a hundred years, imagine 42 generations will be 4200 years and God waited patiently until it was the right time to bring His promise to pass. I have not seen anyone keep a promise that long and God's faithfulness and love never cease to amaze me.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2010-12-25T08:35:00.001+08:00

Wishing everyone Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2011 :)

I surrender.....

2010-12-25T08:05:00.003+08:00

I Surrender - sung by Kim Walker

Verse 1:
There is no love, sweeter than the love You pour on me.
There is no song, sweeter than the song You sing to me.
There is no place, that I would rather be,
Than here at Your feet, laying down everything.

Chorus:
All to You, I surrender,
Everything, every part of me.
All to You, I surrender,
All of my dreams, all of me.

Verse 2:
If worship's like perfume, I'll pour mine out on You.
For there is none as deserving of my love like You.
So take my hand and draw me into You,
I want to be swept away, lost in love for You.

Bridge 1:
I surrender...

Bridge 2:
No turning back, I've made up my mind,
I'm giving all of my life this time.

Bridge 3:
Your love makes it worth it,
Your love makes it worth it all,
Your love makes it worth it all.

This is my 3rd and last day in Cameron Highlands. I am glad that some friends invited me to tag along. It really did me good. It was great to get away from all the distractions in the city, the pollution, the noise, the jam ..... the fresh air in Cameron Highlands and the great company really helped me to unwind and be refreshed. Most important, it was a place where I am connecting with God, the Lover of my soul ... my one True Love. I have been down for a couple of weeks .... a lot of thoughts going to through my mind ... and true to my nature .. I tend to over analyze things, situations and people.... I have a tendency to be ruthless with myself..... I am good at blaming myself when things go wrong or when there a fall out in a relationship even when it was not my fault....the mentality that I am never good enough for anything or anyone. Here away from the distractions, I can hear God speak. I have made compromises to drive away the loneliness, the emptiness ..... so strong was the desire to be loved and wanted ... a basic human nature ...... that I have pushed God aside when He alone was able to fill me up..... He loved and wanted me to the extend of sending His only Beloved Son to die for me on the cross. Jesus took my place on the cross so that I will have life to the fullest and here I was wasting it away .... giving in the desires of the flesh ... giving in to negative and idle thoughts.

But God never gave up on me. He never stopped loving me or wanting me. He never gave me the cold shoulder. His arms were always opened wide for me. All I had to do was to run into His arms. He has been nudging at my heart for so long ... nothing can ever satisfy me like God. And I am learning again to surrender to Him. To die to myself ... To give up my life for Christ is to live again. The Christian life is not easy, and in my own strength, I will fail miserably and here I am weak and broken and I offer up my life into Your hands dear Lord because it is worth it..... You are my only Hope ... because this life is not my own but Yours. All of my dreams, my life, my desires .... everything ... every part of me... I surrender to You.

Here in Cameron Highlands, I reconnected with my Source of strength, my Source of Life .... my Only reason to live. Here God reaffirmed me.... whispered Words of love, peace and hope into my very being. Here I am alive again in body, spirit and soul. My mind is clear now. And I know what I must do when I get back to KL. May Your will alone be done in my life. Amen.

Back in Seremban and loving it!

2010-12-02T19:40:00.007+08:00

I have been back in Seremban for nearly a week now and I am loving it. I drove mom back to Seremban last week on Sunday.... I stayed to fix my 9 year old car - Perodua Kenari ... signs of aging ... had to service the car, change the rear suspension, changed the petrol pump and float coz the petrol gauge was spoilt and I managed to service the car ... now the car feels like new. Hopefully the Kenari will last me for many more years. :)

I managed to eat all of my favorite places in Seremban.

The ikan bakar shop in Seremban with the steam squid and grilled fish.... very fresh and yummy.

Sweet and sour fried tau fu :)

Another of my favorite food is the pork satay at the Glutton Square in Seremban. The prices have gone up a bit ... kinda expensive .. they even charge for the satay sauce top ups. I usually stop by this place whenever I am back in Seremban. I still have not found any pork satays in Kota Kemuning.
It had been ages since I went to the old Market in Seremban. I used to have my meals in the market after school before I caught the bus home. One of my favorite is the beef noodles.

The old market still buzzing with life.

One of my friends in church opened a restaurant, the GIFT Tilapia which sells fresh fish. I tried out the salted tilapia and sambal tilapia and it was really nice. I plan to bring my parents there one day.

I was glad that I was able to catch up with some old friends back in Seremban. Mostly friends from my home church back in Seremban and it is amazing how some friendship remain true even after so many years. We met up and catch up on old times over some Baileys Coffee .... also one of my favorite :)

I am really glad that I went back to Seremban for a week. It had been ages. After this trip back, I have decided that I will try to go back at least once a month to hang out with my parents and old friends. It really brought back a lot of old memories.

KL Bird Park

2010-11-18T00:30:00.004+08:00

Today I went to the KL bird park to try out the Tamron 70-300mm F4-5.6 VC Telephoto lens. This was the first time I own a telephoto lens with my Nikon D90. So far I had read many great reviews about the lens.
Since it was a public holiday, I arrived about 9 am while waiting for another friend to arrive. He owns a Canon 550D while I am using a Nikon D90.

I am glad that we came early as the crowd started coming in later. The day was lovely as well ... not to sunny ... cloudy and perfect for a walk in the park.
Taken in the parrot park.
I can't remember the bird's name .... hehe .. was too busy trying out the new lens. So far I am very impressed with the lens .... I just need to learn how to use it better.
The glorious peacock.
The serence duck.
I think everyone know what this is :)

This is one fierce ostrich ... waiting to attack at any time :P

Overall, I had a great time. I am trying to find locations in and around KL where I can go by myself or with some friends for some photography sessions. I have been quite rusty... was busy with exams and my camera was collecting dust :P

I am really looking forward to 19th till 25th November 2010 where I will be helping out as an assistant medical classifier for the paralympics which will be held in Melaka. Here all the paralympics athletes from all over Malaysia will be competing. This is my first time helping out and I hope that it will be a long term arrangement. I hope to capture some moments during the sports though I have not taken any photos of sports event before. Let's hope I am up to the task with the Tamron 70-300 mm VC.

Yummylicious Kiwi Fruit

2010-10-23T23:22:00.003+08:00

Recently I had found a new love in my life. I HAVE FALLEN IN LOVE WITH KIWI!!! Yes the Kiwi fruit is the apple of my eye now. I absolutely love it. It fills me up. It satisfies me. It quenches my thirst .... yummy ... it goes really well with yogurt which is a heavenly combination.

Both photos taken with my Tamron 90 mm F2.8 Macro lens which I am absolutely in love with as well. Next lens will be the prime lens 50mm F1.8 and the telephoto 55-300mm F4.5-5.6 VR II Nikon lens :)

Both pictures taken with the placing the Kiwi on a white chopping board and an A4 white paper as the background. Flash on the side and my dslr was handheld without any tripod... I was too lazy to take out the tripod :P Some tuning up done in Photoscape.

Another thing to lust for !!!

2010-10-21T06:40:00.003+08:00

The craving never ends .. just when I thought I got my self control mustered up ... Apple releases the Apple Macbook Air 11inches !!!!! I hate Apple.. I love Apple ... I hate Apple ... I love Apple .... repeat to myself a million times .. that I have self control ... I have self control ... I have control .....:P Man it is not WORKING !! ..... coz it is already on sale !!!! click the link here.

My name in Chinese

2010-10-20T19:39:00.002+08:00

My parents just got back from China and they bought for me a stamp with my name in Chinese. I can stamp my name in Chinese on any documents if I want to ...some sort of branding :P Anyway I was busy preparing for my research proposal and I am supposed to show my supervisor the first draft tomorrow morning. Had a mental block and I thought that I will take a short break .... decided to try out the Tamron 90mm F2.8 macro lens.... the photos were taken and editted within 15 minutes. All I used was a white paper as the background. Kept my Metz 48 flashgun on a stand as the slave flash. I was too lazy to take out the tripod as it was meant to be a quickie coz gonna get back to my proposal writing.

So far I am very pleased with the Tamron 90 mm F2.8 macro lens... it fast and sharp and gives a nice bokeh. Very easy to switch between manual and auto focus mode. I can't wait to explore more after my exams ... right now I am just picking up things at home and shooting them to "destress" Exams will be in November but what I am really looking forward to is helping out at the Malaysian paralympic sports which will be held in Melaka later in November.

My name in Chinese... :)
I was born in the year of the Piglet ... oppss I meant the year of the Pig. :P

Anyway just a short post ... and I do have a wonderful supervisor who has now become one of my best buddies. It is amazing how God brings people into my life at the right time and place.

Ok back to my research proposal thingy ... oppss .. I better not forget to eat dinner and take my shower :P

A different perspective

2010-10-17T20:14:00.002+08:00

Managed to try out my friend's macro lens .. Tamron 90mm F2.8 with 1:1 macro. Basically what you see is what you get. Can't wait to take more macro shots. More to come later after my exams in November :)

God of my everything

2010-10-06T19:35:00.004+08:00

God of my everything

sung by Bebo Norman ... visit his website.

Verse 1:

Oh God of heaven come and helm me in

Gather the pieces that are broken

Show me the wonder of You again

Oh God of heaven

Chorus:

God of my hope

God of my need

God of my pain that one else will ever see

God of my healing

God of my strength

God Who is always and will forever reign

God of my everything

Verse 2:

In all creation You call my name

In all the beauty that this world displays

Still I am the one for whom Your heart aches

In all creation

Bridge:

And when the mountains shake

You are my God, You never change

And when the earth gives way

You are still God, You never change

The message I heard last week from Gateway webcast is still nudging at my heart. The value and power of listening to His voice... to quiet myself and just listen to His voice. He has been trying to speak to me through my pain, my rejections, my own self condemnation, my failures, my weaknesses, my circumstances, my problems, my job, my self confidence, my self esteem, my loneliness...... yet many times these things cloud my mind and blind my eyes to the God Who is standing in front of me with His arms wide open... longing for me to run into His arms.....whispering to me “ Son it is ok... come to me and find rest. You don’t have to impress me like how the world judges you. Your value is not measured by what you do for Me but by what I have done and am doing in your life. So my child...let go and let Me in. Don’t compare yourself with others. Let go of the hurts .....the loneliness.... Am I not enough for you? You don’t have to get your act together to come to me....just come as you are. Don’t let the lie of self condemnation separate us. Come and find rest. Come and find life. Come and find peace. Come and find companionship for life. You will never be alone again for I am with you.” Yes this is what I have been doing in the morning drive to work.... communing with God.... letting Him speak....letting the Holy Spirit minister...letting go and letting Him in. As the tears flow..healing and cleansing began.....each tear that only He sees ... the pain that no one else will ever see ... God of my healing and my strength...my everything.

No matter what had happened in my life... somehow the need to worship Him still burns strong in my heart. I was a worship leader when I was studying in India and when I came back to Malaysia, I was serving in the worship ministry and as a cell group leader until I became too busy with my work and studies. It was this burning desire to worship and serve God and have fellowship with other believers which caused me to apply to a new department where I work normal office hours. This was the reason how I ended up taking up keyboard lessons in Summit USJ a couple of months and met this brother who had encouraged and ministered to me when I was really down. It is amazing how God arranges events and people in my life at the right time and place. I have been to Summit USJ for the past few years but never really saw the pin up sign for the keyboard lessons until now. So far this weekly keyboard lessons had been my source of fellowship as he had made it his life purpose to train and build up worship leaders from his keyboard lessons.

This morning while driving to work.... while the song “God of my everything” was playing on repeat.....the thought came to me. I am happy when good things happen in my life and when things goes as planned in my life. But when bad things happen .... how do I respond? Am I still happy? Am I unshakened by the fact that God is the God of my everything when everything seems to be going wrong and not the way I want? Can I still walk around with a smile on my life just based on the fact that God is never changing .... that He is still the Living and Almighty God in spite of everything going wrong in my life..when there is no evidence of His hand in my life..... when I don’t feel Him...when my strength is gone...? And I prayed that I will remain steadfast regardless of the circumstances that I am going ....no matter what that I will believe in my heart that He is for me and that He is my God and that He never changes...not based on how I feel or what my eyes tell me.

Many times I had wanted to stop blogging .....a few people who read my blog have asked me ... why am I so pessimistic? why do I sound so down all the time? When I first started blogging ... I told myself that I will be true to what I am and be transparent about I am going through .... and this blog serves as a reminder of God's goodness in my life. Christian life is not a bed of roses. I don't always have my act together. I keep falling but God picks me up and I keep going forward in His strength. Not here to gain popularity but I just wanna tell the world that my God loves imperfect people....the unloved, the rejected, the hopeless, the failures, the motley crew....we don't have to clean up our mess before coming to God. That is why I am so in love with Him.....the Lover of my soul....my main reason to live is to love Him, worship Him and to make Him known. Through the down times ... I hope that people can see that through it all... God shines through the darkest moments and when all hope is lost...when all strength is gone... He is there. He is the God who strongest in our weakness. If I can touch even one life for Jesus... then this blog is worth it all. Amen.

The power of a whisper

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

Last night I watched the live webcast from the Gateway Church in US where Jason Tam is serving since 2003. The message from Pastor Robert Morris was about giving "Value to the Voice of God" really spoke to me especially the part when he showed a short clip from Bill Hybels who wrote the book " The Power of a Whisper" ... how our lives can be transformed by making a daily commitment to quiet our souls and just listen to God. He shared how a person who listened to his messaged was challenged to put aside time each day to listen to God and write down what he heard. That person's life was changed by making a commitment to just listen to God .. that guy's favorite spot was in his rocking chair overlooking his garden. And it was in this very spot where God spoke to him. This spot where we meet with God can be anywhere ... can be in the commuter train when we go to work, at Starbucks, in the library, a quiet room in the house, by the beach or a waterfall, etc ... as long it is a spot where it is only between God and you .. away from all the distractions of the world.

It really spoke to me and from today onwards.. I have decided that I will get up a bit earlier to drive to work and sit in the library to just listen and write down what God speaks to me.

I really thank God for the live webcasts ... I usually watch the City Harvest Singapore and now I got a new church to listen which is the Gateway Church. At least I can still get ministered by the Word of God. These guys are really touching lives ... and I know that my life is being touched and refreshed. I am still looking for a church to go to ... and in Kota Kemuning ... I found a few which I will try out in the following weeks ... Gospel Hall Kota Kemuning, Community Baptist Church, Kota Kemuning Assembly of God etc ... I hope that I can find a place where I can fit in... have fellowship and serve. I did not know I was missing fellowship so much until I met up with my old buddy, Jason Tam, and I was really encouraged by his testimonies of how God had worked in his life and how faithful God has been in his life. When I hear someone else talking about how God had been so real in this life... I am encouraged and reminded at how real God is .... and I am reminded of His promises. And that is the wonderful rejuvenating and refreshing and recharging effect of good fellowship where we meet and share about the One true Love in our lives ... Jesus. I really pray that I can find that kind of fellowship in Kota Kemuning coz sometimes I can feel myself slipping away.

Meet up with some close friends....

2010-09-26T21:52:00.002+08:00

I don't usually go out on weekends ... I rather stay home .. turn on the air cond ... watch TV and play my Playstation 3 with the new Playstation Move games. Anyway last Saturday I met up with some close friends in Subang Parade. I had worked with them before.....we have since parted ways but we still kept in touch. One of them is currently in Paris and she was back for holidays. We met up in Subang Parade and decided to have lunch in Sakae Sushi to catch up on old times. I am glad that we went at 12 noon coz by 1230 pm the place was packed with people and there was a long Q outside.

It was great catching up and talking about old times and on what is happening in our lives at the moment. Most of us have changed but somehow the bond we had as friends remained strong. I realized that I only have a handful of close friends .... people who I can just call up and just hang out. Coz if you had read my earlier blog entries .. I am a hermit and I had built strong walls around me to protect myself ... strange ....the very thing that I crave for ...for companionship and friendship ... I had managed to keep it away from me by insulating myself from others.... for the fear of getting hurt or rejected. I have stuck in my comfort zone.... but slowly I am reaching out. Slowly .... very very slowly. Anyway I am thankful for the handful that I have .... who really know me.... who I can just be myself. Somehow when I open up my heart and eyes ... I noticed that there are a few unexpected friends which God brings into my life at the very moment when I needed it. It will take me time but I am slowly geting there. Anyway back to my post about meeting up with my friends.

My all time favorite in Sakae Sushi ... Hana Maki .. I can gopple down loads of them :P
Most yummy dishes in Sakae Sushi
Another of my favorite ... Unagi :)
After lunch ... we went for ice cream at Baskin Robbins and then to Coffee Bean for a chat.

Life is short ..... I think that was the conclusion most of us made that day and time really flies. We decided that we will meet again whenever we get the chance.
After we parted ways ... I still had to visit a friend for Raya open house. It was all the way in Wangsa Maju and it was jam in NKVE and MRR2 in Kuala Lumpur .... the heavy rain did not help either ... but while getting stuck in the jam and driving to meet my friends ... I was thanking God for friends who broke through my defences and touched my heart .... people who accepted me for who I am ... who did not judge me ..... people who braved thru my weaknesses and eccentricity ..people who saw my potential and who I could become....... for these people ... you know who are .... I love you guys and I am here for you as you were there for me .... and I am here to stay.

It was a great weekend ..... managed to clean up my house .... worked out on the cross trainer .... and now doing my assignments for next week classes. Good night.

Finding balance.....

2010-09-16T23:10:00.005+08:00

As life passes by before me .... I welcome the journey and the path that I am going through ..... it made me open my eyes to what is really important in my life ... what really matters most ..... a lot of things which I used to fight for suddenly lost their attraction. Contentment and making peace with myself ..... finding balance in life. Thus the questions arose regarding what I am doing right now in my life....it is really that important ... does it really matter....... Life is meant to be lived to the fullest .... and life is full of surprises. By God's grace ... I will have the strength and wisdom to walk the right path.

Psalms 28:7

2010-09-13T10:31:00.002+08:00

"The Lord is my Strength and my [impenetrable] Shield; my heart trusts in, relies on, and confidently leans on Him, and I am helped; therefore my heart greatly rejoices, and with my song will I praise Him." Psalm 28:7 Amplified Bible.

This bible verse had been in my heart for the past few days .... God is my anchor in the midst of storms ..... it is so easy to be tossed around but He holds close and securely. Without Him... I think I would have stopped living.

Fukuro and Dharma

2010-08-27T00:32:00.002+08:00

I received these 2 cute ornaments from a good friend who bought it when he was in Japan. 2 very meaningful ornaments ... meet Fukuro and Dharma
Fukuro and Dharma
Fukuro : Happiness and Prosperity
Fukuro ( Owl ) is pronounced as the luck same as "no trouble" or "good come soon" in Japanese. It is a good luck article for bring good (business) fortune. The Owl lives at night so it is believed to bring good luck for students when studying during the late hours of the night.
(taken from the tag on the ornament)
Dharma Doll : Victory and Prosperity
A Dharma Doll is known as an indomitable spirit. It is round at the bottom and it will automatically regain its balance after being tipped over. So it is popular as a symbol which does not go bankrupt. It brings good luck in business and for school exams.
(taken from the tag on the ornament)

Both very meaningful ornaments for me .... will be keeping it on my study table.

A short update

2010-08-19T00:22:00.002+08:00

A lot have happened in my life the past few months. There were ups and downs. But God had remained faithful and good to me all the time. I have started a one year Masters of Public Health course ( yeah many people ask me why oh why I wanna study again - well I wanna give myself another chance .... one more try .... and if it does not work out ... life goes on .... my priorities are different now ). I am still up late night now trying to finish off a presentation which is due this Friday...... which means that I will be falling asleep during classes tomorrow ... oh well as long as I get to complete my work :).

I have moved into a new house in Kota Kemuning and I plan to sell off my apartment in USJ. I moved in on June 25th 2010 and I must say ... I LOVE THE NEW HOUSE! It is very cozy .... I look forward to going home.

I am still looking for a church to go to but I am attending fellowships here and there and I am one step closer to a church where I can belong. Started taking keyboard classes with a brother in Christ who wants me to start serving in christian fellowship on Saturdays.

And my heart is still very much smitten by Jesus.

We need one another

2010-08-19T00:09:00.002+08:00

I was speaking to a close friend of mine who is a brother in Christ ... he is going through a tough time to the extent that he is angry with God regarding what he is going through..... actually he is too caught up in his own world to realized that all he had to do was to let go and let God in and that most of his problems were his own doing ... but he had reached a point where he is blaming God for all the bad things in his life.... it is so easy to point a finger at God when things go bad ... we forget the times when He had proven Himself to be faithful and merciful. I am guilty of that as well .. when things go well .. it is so easy to forget God and when things go wrong, we forget His goodness and put a finger at God, blaming Him for everything .. we forget that He is the Almight God .. the One we should fear and love and cherish. It is amazing that He is such a merciful and forgiving God or else there will not be anyone left on earth if He were to start passing out judgement on the spot.

I realized that somtimes God allows us to go through difficult time so that we can support, encourage and stand along side someone who is going through the same difficult times. It makes us more sensitive and compassionate towards the fellow traveler in this journey called life. We all need one another. We all need a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on once in awhile. The worst thing we can do is to shut everyone out.

This picture was taken during Chinese New Year when I get to meet my niece from Thailand once a year. I am planning to travel to Thailand next year ... too broke this year after moving into my new house in Kota Kemuning. So everything put on hold though I did manage to go to Hong Kong earlier this year.

No escape

2010-08-15T19:46:00.003+08:00

Sometimes when I think I have got my life in order ... the past and the "old man- the old me with all the weaknesses and bad habits" always manage to catch up with me and my world falls apart. Only by the grace of God and the wonderful family and friends support that I am able to pick myself up again and keep moving on in life. In the end, I realized that there is no escape .... just need to keep picking myself up and keep moving on no matter what the setback and to keep forgiving myself and not give up.

Bukit Gasing hiking ... I finally did it!!!

2010-08-15T00:14:00.002+08:00

I finally went for a hike to Bukit Gasing ..... though it might not be such a tough hike for me .. it was an achievement .... hehe ... I did not know that losing about 7 kgs can make such a big difference to my endurance. I had also been doing short runs on the treadmill.... I guess it all paid off. My sister had been asking me to tag along as she has been training for her Kota Kinabalu climb with her husband on August 16th 2010.

My sister in great shape.
Yes this is to prove that I was really there :P

The way out ... I ran out the last few bit :P ... I think if my endurance improves and I lose more weight .. I will aim to go for a climb to Kota Kinabalu :)

Spring cleaning

2010-07-04T23:11:00.004+08:00

Mom and sis came over to my apartment to help do some spring cleaning and to start packing my stuffs so that I can move all my stuffs over to my new house in Kota Kemuning. Planning to move in on July 25th .... anyone free to help me move my stuffs? :P

Anyway I did not realized that I have kept so much junk/old stuffs in my apartment .... there so many old stuffs ... old letters, old bills, gadgets which were already useless, my previous anaesthesia notes etc. ...like I was still trying to hold on to some thing in my life .. the past .... and as I started to throw/clear all these old stuffs from my apartment .... it was kinda liberating ...... to throw away/give up the past things that I had held so tightly ..... it was gonna be a new beginning for me. In life... many times, we tend to carry a lot of unnecessary burden/excess baggage which hold us from living life to the fullest ... the thrill of the unknown ... the thrill of God doing new things in my life. I was letting go apart of me which I did not even know that I was holding onto for dear life. Time to say good bye to the old and hello to the new.....a new beginning.

I had started making changes to my life ... made some dietary changes and started to really work out instead of just dreaming about it. Lost about 3 kgs now ... more to come .. and I wanna get a whole new wardrobe in 6 months :) I feel more energetic and more positive.

Another thing I am thankful is I have a wonderful supportive family .... I seldom invite people to my apartment coz it is super messy but my mom and sis just walk right in ... oblivious to the mess and rolled up their sleeves and proceeded to help me clear up the mess in my life. Such unconditional love.... I can always fall back on my family. More and more I learn to appreciate and treasure them.

As for my walk with God, He is still very much a part of my life. Apart from Him, I am nothing. But the search for a church to belong to is still on ..... I even went to try out a church in Klang .... the hunger for fellowship and a place to serve and worship is still burning strongly in me. As for now, I will hold on to God and He to me. Amen.

Life.....

2010-06-20T18:54:00.004+08:00

What is life? Been pondering about it ..... and I think I come to the conclusion that I have stopped fighting and kinda given up on life. Hmmmm.....

Papa Roti

2010-04-12T01:36:00.002+08:00

I usually visit my sister and my niece during the weekends. Since I got the keys to my new house in Kota Kemuning, I decided to get some help from my bro in law regarding how to renovate my house. So brought the contractor to check out the house ... for grill, kitchen cabinet, etc.

Oh yeah before we went to check out the house, we went for lunch at Papa Roti in Kota Kemuning. I tried out the laksa with foo chook... not too bad.

The cham ice is super yummy.

Time really flies. My niece has been growing up so fast.... she is like an energizer battery .. non stop energy..... and she will never sit still. She is now 1 year and 4 months old.

How He loves us - sung by Kim Walker

2010-02-28T20:06:00.005+08:00

How He Loves Us - sung by Kim Walker from Jesus Culture

He is jealous for me
Love's like a hurricane,
I am a tree
Bending beneath the weight of
His wind and mercy
When all of a sudden, I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory
and I realize just how beautiful You are and how great your affections are for me.

Oh, how He loves us so
Oh, how He loves us
How He loves us so.
(x2)

Yeah, He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves.
(x2)

We are His portion and
He is our prize,
Drawn to redemption
by the grace in His eyes
If grace is an ocean, we're all sinking
So heaven meets earth like a sloppy wet kiss and my heart turns
violently inside of my chest
I don't have time to maintain these regrets when I think about the way

He loves us,
whoa, how He loves us
whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves
(x2)

Yeah, He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves.

Yeah, He loves us
He loves us
He loves us
He loves.

Yeah, He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves

He loves us,
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves

You can check out the music video here.

The Jesus Culture website.

I was introduced to this song today at People's Park Baptist Church .... I loved what the worship leader share about how God's love is so ferocious .... how He loves us .... how He will never let go.... He will never let us go.

I found the original version sung by Kim Walker from the Jesus Culture group .... I can feel the anointing as she poured her heart out before Jesus. The presence of God filled me as I let the words of the song minister to me ....how the tears flow as God did His cleansing work in my heart ..... how my heart was burned with a passion once again when I first fell in love with Him ... how I myself too was madly in love with Jesus. That was in 1988... over the years I have allowed many things to come into my life .... I started work ... the trials and temptations ...the hurts.. the cares of the world had somehow clouded my heart and eyes for Jesus. But through it all, He had guarded my heart jealously .... He had never failed me ... He had never left me alone. Though man might fail me, Jesus had never let me down. The truth is when He comes and loves me .... I can never be the same again as the love of God compels me and woos me and fill me up. He knows me so well.

Oh how He loves me ..... I long to serve Him ... I long to love Him .... may my heart's desire and passion to love Him and to make Him known never cease but to continue burning more and more each day. Amen.

Church and lunch

2010-02-28T18:47:00.003+08:00

Today I attended a church, People's Park Baptist Church. I was invited by a blogger, Simple Me. I am glad that I attended church as I have been missing church for a couple of months now since I got back from Europe. I hope that finally I have a place where I can belong and serve.

After church, my friend took me around to introduce me to the church members. I will be joining them for their prayer meeting this coming Wednesday. I will visit this couple for a couple of Sundays and see how it goes.

After church, we went for lunch, Yat Yeh Hing Restaurant which was famous for their chicken rice.
The char siew was lean and yummy.
Some vegetables.
The famous chicken.
The place we went to.

It was a good chance for me to get out of the apartment to meet with new friends instead of just locking myself up at home. I have been quite a couch potato. Trying to get back into the routine of going to the gym but feel more comfortable working out at home which was not so regular.

CNY 2010

2010-02-28T08:07:00.005+08:00

Time really flies..... Feb 2010 is over .... another 10 more months and we will be in the year 2011. My nieces are growing so fast. They are both so adorable. I had a great time hanging out with my family during Chinese New Year. These are the special moments that I must treasure because it can slip away so easily and time waits for no man.
Both my nieces ... they have grown up so fast. Next year they will be 2 years plus ... should be fun to see them both interact with one another. We are planning to have Chinese New Year in Thailand.
I am looking forward to Chinese New Year 2011. Now let's make the most of 2010.

I am planning to visit People's Park Baptist Church today as I got an invitation from one of the bloggers .... hopefully I will fit in this time... been missing church too often nowadays.

Rotterdam, Netherlands

2009-12-09T00:15:00.002+08:00

I am on leave till Wednesday and I am back in Seremban.... been ages since I came back ... finally have time for myself to go through my Europe photos and also read some of the books I bought recently ... I also made time to catch up with old friends.

These are some photos taken in Rotterdam. After classes, I will go for walks and dinner with a few friends. The city is one of the most modern city in Netherlands ....

Yup we walked the bridge to the other side.... a great workout.
Lovely blue sky .....

This one of the theatres where they have plays, shows etc. Unfortunately it is not in season now so we were not able to go for any shows.
One of the underground subway tunnels.
The huge shopping mall in Alexandrium.

Finally a candle light dinner to finish off the day ... we had a nice dinner at a chinese restaurant.

The Distance by Phillips Craig and Dean

2009-11-29T11:42:00.003+08:00

The Distance by Phillips, Craig and Dean

Broken up on a road that felt like freedom
A rebel headed anywhere but home
Adam’s fall repeated in a moment
Kept it at the edge of Eden’s door

In the company of the angels
Reachin’ from a beautiful world
You could’ve waited

CHORUS:
You couldn’t stand
Couldn’t stand the distance
You wouldn’t bare the silence anymore
Love broke the fall, bridged across to reach us
You opened Heaven’s door
‘Cause you couldn’t stand the distance

Close enough to see the love I needed
A seeker lookin’ for the way back home
Underneath the weight of what I wasted
While mercy stood lookin’ down on hope

Then you ran to where I was waiting
And your love crossed the canyon between us
You came to save me

CHORUS

So close to your mercy
Yet so far away
You ran to me
You ran to me
Forgiveness
Embrace me
You call me by name
Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah

CHORUS (x2)

Silence .... silence for so long ..... the distance was increasing .... the intimacy fading ... only hardening of the heart. And still He has a way to break through all my defenses. I have stopped going to church for a few months now since I got back from Europe. Been keeping to myself again. Might give DUMC a try since I got a cousin there or maybe pay the Grace Assembly a visit since I got an old classmate there. Anyway I might spend Christmas in KL since I got some friends coming over from India, Sabah and Penang.

It is amazing how God will never let you go ... never let go of His hold over me ... it is I who lets go of His hands. This song brought tears to my eyes while I was driving to work in the morning .. stuck in the jam .... was lost in thoughts .... and the song started ... the Spirit of God just washed all over me .... filling me .... completing me .... washing me clean .... yes how easy it is to push God aside .... to let everything fill me instead of God. Yes it He never stops reaching out ... never stops wooing. What an amazing God I serve ... the Lover of my soul ... the Faithful one for the unfaithful one. This kind of love has never stopped amazing me. It is beyond words. Once again .. I gave myself completely to Jesus. Amen.

Organization Chart : an illustration

2009-11-11T09:58:00.002+08:00

One of my friends sent me this email and it kinda get the message across really loud and clear in a comical way.

An email from a friend : To celebrate growing older - thoughts to ponder on

2009-09-25T11:43:00.005+08:00

Just wanted to share something that I received from a friend via email .... it was a good reminder to live life to the fullest with no regrets.

Have a great weekend ...

Cheers

From the Email :

"This is something we should all read at least once a week!

Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio "To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written." My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone...
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it..
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present..
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry..
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks..
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you, really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple..
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone, everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative - dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come.
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift"

Updates : on my uncle

2009-09-23T11:47:00.004+08:00

Update :

On my uncle's condition. He is transferred out of Neuro ICU. He is back in the normal ward. He remembers most things now. He is able to stand with support though he is still weak on the right side of his body. He might get discharged back home end of this week.

Thank you so much for the well wishes and prayers. Really appreciate it. God is good.

Please continue to keep my uncle in prayer.

Please pray for my uncle

2009-09-17T06:29:00.001+08:00

Please pray for my uncle, Set Chee Kong who will be undergoing surgery to remove a brain tumour. He will be going into the operating theatre at 8.30 am Malaysian Time.

I am getting ready to visit him in the morning before his surgery.

Thanks a lot guys.

Nijmegen : it was love at first sight

2009-08-26T15:06:00.006+08:00

Nijmegen ... the city which I fell in love at first sight. This is one of the cities in Netherlands where I really felt at home .... no rush ... it was serene. The people were friendly ... people greeted us on the road, strangers offered help when we were struggling with the map. It was just a nice feeling walking through the town and the parks. It was lovely. This was a place where I did not rush back to Rotterdam .... we took our time.

I spent alot of time on the trains ..... my iphone was my trusted companion .... providing me with music and games and books to read. I really love the big screen :D
I wanted to make this photo look antique :P

Part of the ruins left in Nijmegen

Part of a pillar of the cathedral.
The church in the center of town.

The grand organ pipes in church.
Lovely lighting in church.

Machine vending snacks :D

We had chinese food at the park...yummy.
Back to Rotterdam and I spotted the Daihatsu Mira which was the Perodua Kancil back in Malayisa.

I took alot of pictures ...but the memory of the places I have visited will remain in my memory forever.

Life's Healing Choices - by John Baker

2009-08-26T04:46:00.002+08:00

I have been reading John Baker's book - Life's healing choices ... I am really impressed with what the Saddleback Church in US is doing .. especially the Celebrate Recovery meetings where someone can just meet up with others ... a place to be transparent .. to know that one is accepted unconditionally regardless of the past and current experiences .. the demons that holds us back .... we all have skeletons in the closet .. the things that we alone know and we guarded it fiercely so that no one will ever know the truth about us fearing rejection. The Saddleback Church provided an environment where people could just let down their guards, tear down the walls and put away the mask and be transparent about who they really are .. knowing that they will be not be judged but will only find love, support and acceptance. I wonder if I can ever find a Malaysian version of the Saddleback Church. Still the search goes on. In the meantime, I can only keep praying and cling on to Jesus for dear life. Maybe our culture had not reached the point where we will not judge but accept and love. That God alone can change someone.

Lord, I pray that You will show me this church where I can go to and grow and be set free to be who You want me to be .. to serve You ... You alone sees my heart's desires. You alone know the real me.... my heart's desire to love You and to be loved by You and to share Your love with others who do not know You yet ... to touch lives for You. Please guide me and show me and give me the strength and faith to keep going on and live for You alone. Amen

Amsterdam

2009-08-25T05:41:00.002+08:00

I managed to go on a half day visit to Amsterdam with Tracy who is my tour guide :D. Just managed to visit the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. The rest of the time was spend having a meal while sitting and enjoying the sights at the park.

Trust His Heart - sung by Newsong

2009-08-18T08:06:00.002+08:00

Trust His Heart - sung by Newsong

All things work for our good
though sometimes we can't see how they could.
Struggles that break our hearts in two
sometimes blind us to the truth.
Our Father knows what's best for us;
His ways are not our own.
So, when your pathway grows dim,
and you just can’t see Him,
Remember He's still on the throne.

God is too wise to be mistaken.
God is too good to be unkind.
So when you don't understand,
when you don't see His plan,
When you can't trace His hand, trust His heart.

He sees the Master plan.
He holds the future in His hands.
So don't live as those who have no hope.
All our hope is found in Him.
We walk in present knowledge,
but He sees the first and the last.
And like a tapestry, He's weaving you and me
to someday be just like Him.

God is too wise to be mistaken.
God is too good to be unkind.
So when you don't understand,
when you don't see His plan,
When you can't trace His hand, trust His heart

This was an old song which I had on tape.... I bought it in Canada when I was doing my Grade 12 in Medicine Hat, Alberta. I had listened to this song many times when I could not see His hand in my life. It had been some time since I heard this song.

It has been many years since I left Medicine Hat, it has been about 20 years now. How time flies .... things change .... more responsiblities in life, diferent experiences, more distractions, many more things fighting for my attention, the loneliness ... that at times I forget that I can trust His heart. I still look at things which are tangible. I look for visible signs of God in my life .... but many times, it is not possible to feel Him or to see His hand in my life. Sometimes when life gets too routine, I tend to just live life in autopilot. The same old thing day in and day out makes it so easy to forget about Him. There was not much fellowship in KL to be reminded of God's goodness and power. I am amazed at how God always know who to pop into my life to remind me about Him. This time it was Yap who blogs at cpwaterman.blogspot.com, I stayed with him and his family when I was in Paris last weekend. It was great to hear him talking about God ... how God had been so faithful ..... It awakens the fire within me to be reminded that my God is alive and real. To see Him working in another person's life was a good reminder to me. Coz sometimes I feel that I walk around like a zombie in my shell .... I feel numb at times .... maybe it helps to numb the hurt ... it helps to stop feeling sometimes. And little did I know that the last weekend I spent in Paris was a place of awakening for me. Last Sunday before I left Paris, I sat in the Sacre-Coeur Basilica Cathedral and said a prayer to God which I used to say many years ago .. "God use me, may Your will alone be done in my life. Lead me in the path that You want me to take. Show me Your will for my life."

So when I don't see His hand working in my life, I will trust His heart. The Lover of my soul. Amen

So I want to share this song with you ... to not lose heart ... know that when you can't feel His hand, you can trust His heart.

Netherlands Day 2

2009-08-12T04:54:00.006+08:00

2nd day in Netherlands ... thank God that I did not suffer much jet lag. I was able to sleep at night and get up in the morning. It was Sunday and we went to a church near Amsterdam, C3 Amsterdam Church.

See all the taxi are MERCEDES !!!!!

Countdown to church service.
C3 Church
After church we headed over to Volendam... a fishing village which is now a tourist spot.
Windmill !
Volendam.

Volendam was a good play to get souvenirs as they can be bought in bulk here and are cheaper than the cities and airports.
Fridge magnets
Tulips decor
People just relaxing under the sun and have a beer.

Had some Dutch beer ... yummy ... smooth.
Prawns cooked with chilli, spices and onions .... very fresh and succulent.

We headed over to Edam ... a quiet place for a walk.
You can find chinese restaurant everywhere!
Favorite past time .. hanging out with friends and loved ones and having beer.
And my cozy room.... time for my sleep...zzzzzzzzzzzzz.

Netherlands Day One

2009-08-11T04:54:00.007+08:00

A new journey begins.

KLIA was crowded the day I was flying to Amsterdam ... good thing there was self check in counter. Really hasten things up.
Lazing at the MAS Lounge before boarding the flight.
My own personal LCD Monitor during the flight ... watched a couple of movies.
This is the best part ... I can actually press the bed button and my seat will slide down and flatten out for me to sleep on .... not able to sleep much though.

Landed safely at Schiphol International Airport ... I went out to take some pictures while waiting for me to arrive from Tilburg. Very sweet and nice of her to come all the way to pick me up from the airport and she gave me some pointers regarding how to take a train/tram/buses .... at least not so blur loh.
Had yummy multigrain sandwich with cold meat.
Arrived in one piece at Rotterdam Centraal Train Station.... now waitng for my connecting train ... I think I will be spending alot of time on trains while traveling around Netherlands.
Double decker trains....very comfortable
Open air market on weekends ... the orang putih verision of Pasar Malam :D
You can even get your spare parts for the bicycles !!!!
Glorious CHEESE ... too many varieties that I did not even know which one to choose !
Yummy Pastries
Lovely Flowers

The Cube Houses just outside Rotterdam Blaak station .. which is 5 mins walk to my hotel.
One of the canals

I managed to witness the Music Carnival in Rotterdam ... Dutch people know how to party !!!!

The mess left behind ... which was promptly cleaned up ... very efficient .... Dutch people laid back and very efficient at what they do.
Netherlands seems like a place where I can settle down in. :) Laid back ... I love the fresh air and the blue skies. They are very warm and friendly and helpful.

25 mins to go before I board the plane

2009-08-07T22:54:00.002+08:00

Finally I am here in KLIA ... 25 minutes before I board the plane to Amsterdam. Just checking my emails and having some juices before I board the plane ... wonder how the food will be during the flight ... hehe.

I really hope that I brought everything that I needed .. I am sure I must have left out some small stuffs but I can always get it in Rotterdam.

Hopefully my hotel provides internet so that I can still update you guys ... plan to take lots of pictures. After much thought I decided to stick to my Fuji Finepix F200EXR instead of bringing the Canon 350D along ... I rather travel light and enjoy the sight since I am usually a lone ranger. I am glad that I have a side kick in Netherlands before she flies back to Malaysia after her course.

Early birthday treat for mom

2009-08-02T20:13:00.004+08:00

We celebrated mom birthday earlier today. We decided to bring her to Rakuzen at Chulan Square. We had the lunch buffet.
Yummy scallops
Green peas
Soft shell crab california rolls
Grilled unagi
Salmon sashimi
Garlic fried rice
Fruits
My niece wearing the jacket I bought for her from Bangkok :) She is so adorable.

Nice green tea ice cream.

It was great meeting up with the family.

PC Fair and I finally met spinosum :)

2009-08-02T18:29:00.006+08:00

Yup I did it again. I told myself that I wont go to PC Fair again coz it was just too crowded and I could get the same prices at Low Yat where there will be less crowded. The last visit ... I bought a one terabyte hard disk after getting through the crowd in PC Fair ... I was really happy with the buy and I found out that it was the same price in Low Yat when I went there the following week.

PC Fair was crowded.
Finally got out of PC Fair .... I bought a 4gb SD card for my camera in preparation for my Europe trip and a leather casing for my iphone 3G.

I wanted to try out the night shots on Finepix F200EXR and the results really blew me away for a compact camera. I am very happy with the results. I am thinking that I will just bring my Finepix compact camera instead my Dslr Canon 350D to lighten the load.
A lot of people sitting and admiring the fountain.
Met a friend from church for dinner at Little Penang Cafe in KLCC. I already miss the real Penang food.

We sat and talked for a long time until we were the only ones left in the restaurant :)

I finally met Spinosum. We got to know each other via our blogs and our love for gadgets like pdas, gps etc. He has a clinic at PJU 1/3 B - Klinik Loh. We had lunch at the famous char siew restaurant near his clinic and we plan to meet up again for more chat and gadgets talk. Some friendships just kinda click.

Netherlands here I come !

2009-07-31T01:07:00.003+08:00

Yes ! I will flying off to Netherlands next Friday. I just got my plane ticket this week. I will be attending a 3 weeks summer course at Erasmus University in Rotterdam.

Been so swamped with work that I did not have time to plan out what I wanna do in Europe. Good thing I have a friend over in Netherlands who is helping me plan out my trips.... and it is great to travel with a friend instead of going alone.

I am bringing my laptop along with my finepix F200EXR and I am still contemplating if I should bring my Canon 350D dslr camera along ... was thinking of traveling light...hmmm

I am definitely gonna miss Malaysian food :P

Ok good night guys ....cheers.

Yummy Food in USJ Taipan

2009-07-31T00:50:00.004+08:00

Some yummy-licious food in USJ Taipan

Korean BBQ Pork at Daodore Restaurant (hope I got the name correct )
I had the Korean BBQ meal with a close friend of mine :)
Vege at the hawker food stall
Juicy chicken
Pork balls

My all time favorite.... pork noodle soup.
Oyster fried with egg.

I seldom go out for meals by myself. I usually just make some salads, instant noodles or sandwiches when I am home. Whenever I take pictures of food .. it is usually when I am in the company of friends.

Pizza Uno alternative in Seremban !!!!!

2009-07-21T22:27:00.004+08:00

Finally a Pizza Uno alternative in Seremban !!!!!!! It is called Pizza Italia and it is run by a chef who used to work in Pizza Uno USJ. It is located behind Hospital Columbia Seremban. These are the GPS coordinates : N2 42.551 E101 55.036

The prices are reasonable ... very affordable compared to Pizza Uno USJ where the prices had increased exorbitantly. They have most of my favorites dishes in Pizza Uno.

I went there last Saturday for lunch with Kok Hon and Boon Ping .... I had a great time of fellowship ... I was thinking maybe I should start going back to Seremban more often to attend church back home... at the same time I can see my parents more often.
Seafood Marinara white cream sauce.... super yummy.
Fish and chips :)
And here is how the shop looks like. Those in Seremban should give it a try :)

Yummy food in Penang Part 2

2009-07-18T20:45:00.005+08:00

Glorious yummy food !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Part two of the yummy food in Penang. Surprisingly I did not put on much after stuffing myself with food daily ... burp ..... but I made sure that I walked about 8000-10000 steps per day which was recorded with my pedometer ( I will blog about the pedometer in another post :) )

Glorious sambal belacan ... yummy .. goes great wit the prawn mee found at Green House Prawn Mee shop.
One bowl is NOT enough .. though I just had one bowl with extra tiny prawns ... :)
Teow Chew seafood at Pulau Tikus ... expensive with small portions ! Anyway not going back again.
Sweet and sour prawns ... 5 small prawns for RM 15 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Oysters mee ... not too bad.
Chee Cheong Fun at Midlands Restaurant - it is call China Restaurant... nice :)
Fish dim sum
Pickled long beans
My all time favorite ... I must have this whenever I go to Penang ... mamak mee goreng. At Mt Erskine Food Court.
Glorious seafood kuah teow with LAP CHEONG !!!!!!! my favorite !!!!
Succulent fried oyster with egg.
Mixed Lobak
Yummy Pork porridge :)

I am already day dreaming about when I will return to Penang on a food binge ... in the mean now in the gym burning off the extra calories.

Starbucks Coffee at Borders Penang

2009-07-12T15:22:00.000+08:00

Having a chocolate drink at Starbucks Borders Penang. My last day in Penang before I drive back to KL tomolo. I had a good week in Penang. Stuffed myself with all the hawker food.

Starbucks here in Borders is always packed with people. Some read books, some surf the net and there are some who hogs over the place even without purchasing any drinks from Starbucks. Actually I prefer the comfort of my own apartment with some nice coffee/tea to read a book or surf the net. Besides the coffee will be cheaper at home :).

-- Post From My iPhone

Kek Lok Si Penang

2009-07-11T22:55:00.005+08:00

I have not been to Kek Lok Si in a long long long time. A couple of days back, I managed to go there with some colleagues to check out the Asam Laksa located at the foothill and to visit Kek Lok Si. More information on Kek Lok Si here.

Kek Lok Si is a temple which houses a 120 feet bronze Guan Yin. There is also a pagoda. It was a good exercise for me to walk up all the way to Kek Lok Si. Was kinda tempted to drive all the way up to the temple :) Anyway made it up alive drenched in my sweat and managed to take some photos.

Yes I survived ! Steps leading to the main temple.
Inner part of the temple.
Some chinese characters on a pillar.
Monks busy at work.
The view from the ramp up to Guan Yin statue.

A tourist feeding the fish ... erm actually there was a sign board telling us not to feed the fish.
View from the top of the Pagoda.
It was a good trip to visit places that I have been to when I was a small kid. Still a lot of heritage places which I had not visited in Penang. I wish I had brought my dslr along but my Fuji compact was easier to carry :)

Why I love Penang Food!

2009-07-09T23:11:00.003+08:00

I always look forward going to Penang. I love the food in Penang and it is definitely a place where I don't mind settling down when I am older and retired :)

The famous Penang Road Cendol
Asam Laksa at the shops below Kek Lok Si Temple
Char Siew Rice at Sky Hotel
First time I am having Fried Porridge at 113 Restaurant located at Fettes Road .. yummy :)
My buffet lunch at the conference
Nice Plum drink.

Man I got my work cut out at the gym when I get back to USJ :)

Conference in Penang

2009-07-07T10:26:00.000+08:00

I am currently in Penang for a week. I am attending a conference in G Hotel.

I am also trying out the blogging software : BlogPress, which I bought for my iPhone. Hope it works.

-- Post From My iPhone

iphone 3.0 Software update !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-06-17T09:26:00.002+08:00

I am really excited about today coz the iphone 3.0 software will be released on JUNE 17th !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Too bad Malaysia time is ahead of US time .. so I guess I gotta wait till tonight or tomorrow morning to download the update for my iphone 3G. The new software update will give me a brand new phone to use. I am really looking forward to the new features.

Anyone waiting for the iphone 3.0 software update ?

Just some of the new features in iphone 3.0.
(Taken from TUAW )
Some of the biggest updates include:

Push notifications will be standard in iPhone 3.0. Apple claims that there was a scaling issue when they first announced this feature last year, with thousands of developers clamoring to use it, so it had to be delayed. Developers will be able to build message, sound, and badge alerts into their applications.
iPhone will support cut, copy and paste -- copy text and pictures, then paste them in any application on the device. If you change your mind about the newly pasted data, just shake to display a menu asking if you wish to undo the paste.
In-App purchasing -- developers will have the ability to charge a fee from within the application for more levels in a game, magazine subscriptions, eBooks, etc. This solves the problem of the 20 ebook readers that only allow you to read one book each.
MMS -- you'll be able to use MMS on your iPhone 3G (yes, 1st gen iPhones will not get the fortune of using MMS due to the use of a different cell radio). The new Messages application will be taking the place of the SMS app and will allow you to send voice memos and pictures to your friends.
Peer-to-Peer connectivity -- allows iPhone apps the ability to find other iPhone users over WiFi or Bluetooth. This can be using for anything from gaming to sharing data.
Third-party Accessories -- app developers can now access third-party accessories attached to the iPhone. This could allow for developers to interface with their own accessories to create a truly unique experience on the device. One of the demonstrated uses was a prototype blood glucose meter for the iPhone, from a Johnson & Johnson subsidiary, which is already getting attention from our readers; it's not for sale yet!
Apple will now be allowing applications the ability to get GPS coordinates from Core Location and turn that into software that provides Turn-by-Turn directions for iPhone users. However, due to the terms of use with Google maps, developers will be required to license their own maps for this use (meaning that Turn-by-Turn GPS applications will almost certainly be paid apps). This isn't a problem for vendors like TomTom or Telenav, who already have licenses for their map data.
A landscape keyboard option is now available in all iPhone applications, including the infamous Mail.app.
Voice memos will allow iPhone users the ability to capture audio and then email it, or send it through the Messages application as a multimedia message.
System-wide Spotlight searching is built right into the home screen. To the left of the first home screen, there is a magnifying glass, so by flicking to the left of the first home screen will show this search app. You can search for anything, including mail, music, and notes. There is no word yet on how this will interface with third-party applications.
Stereo Bluetooth audio devices are now supported through the use of A2DP technology.

Lift - Shannon Noll and going to gym so far

2009-06-14T19:37:00.009+08:00

LIFT - by Shannon Noll ( The Biggest Loser Australia Theme Song )

I know you're hurting
Feels like your learning
'Bout life the hard way
And it ain't working
Seems like forever
That you've been falling
It's time to move on
Your life is calling, yeah

This was never meant to be the end
Close the book and start again

Chorus:
Cos i know how hard it can get
But you've gotta lift
You've gotta lift
And sometimes that's how it is
But i know you're stronger
Stronger than this
You've gotta lift
You've gotta lift

When you can feel your
Whole body's aching
What's left of your heart
It wont stop breaking
You've got to let go
You took a hit
Time to pick up now
Move on from this

This was never meant to be the end
Close the book and start again

Chorus

You've got to lift yourself up above all
the hurt
Don't give in
Wipe your eyes and remember you're better
than this
Let them know that they took their best shot
and they missed
Come on and lift

Chorus

Pick up now...
Pick up now...

Last week was a tough week for me.....a lot of obstacles throughout the week. And on top of it, I had to counsel and encourage my staffs. It was draining me mentally and emotionally. It is not easy to keep giving .... sometimes we need to recharge ourselves before we can continue to keep giving more of ourselves. And to add to the fire, I had to deal with the office politics. There were people backstabbing, gossiping .... yeah it happens all the time in any work environment and I had made it a rule to myself that I will not take part in any office politics. But as I was already drained out ... it kinda got me down as well when people came to talk to me.

I need to recharge ... to draw strength from God. But sometimes it is not enough just God and me. I need to talk to someone, to get some opinions, to feel encouraged ,,,,, I guess at times I need TLC myself. I have been so used to putting other people's need before mine that I had to mentally tell myself to think about myself once in awhile. I need to find a way to recharge.

So I decided that I will just have to grit my teeth and just keep pressing on by myself. And this song - Lift by Shannon Noll - encouraged me to keep going on. ( I have been watching The Biggest Loser alot to get inspiration and encouragement and it was one of the main reasons that I got my fat butt to True Fitness.) It only takes the first step. And a "made up" mind. These past few days, I had made my mind about different aspects of my life, my health, my relationships etc.

Joining the gym had done more good to me than I can ever imagined. My stamina is improving. I have a spring to my steps. Most of it ..... it chased the blues away. When I am alone in the apartment, you know an idle mind is dangerous and that is when all the nonsense and negative thoughts try to invade my mind ..... making me wallow in self pity, despair etc. And now I found a new way to be more positive ... HIT THE GYM!!!!!!!! Yeah I think it is saving my life from being a couch potato. And since I changed my job, my working hours are more regular ... hence I am able to be more regular at the gym. I am giving myself 6 months to transform myself. And yes I think I am getting addicted to going to gym.

In the meantime, I will continue to lift.

Ups and Downs

2009-06-10T21:12:00.004+08:00

Ups and downs ..... part and puzzle of life...... full of surprises .... unpredictable ... tears and joy..... too bad no one to share it with ....... sometimes it is better to just keep it to myself and God. He is always there for me to fall back on ... He does not laugh at my tears or hurt ....He shares my joys ... my ups and downs ... He understands me completely ..... He knows me in and out .. more than I know myself. So I learn to quiet myself and trust Him .... learn to put on a happy face .... show that I am strong .... but deep inside .. it is God Who gives me the strength for another day.

Going to the gym !!!!

2009-06-06T15:20:00.004+08:00

Yes !! I finally signed up with True Fitness and I got quite a good deal ... very affordable and I am really excited about working out today. I am planning to go at 4 pm and sweat it out so that I will not feel guilty when I have dinner with my old classmates - Bryan and Lionel later at 7.30 pm at Subang Parade. It is great catching up with old friends.

I am really excited about this phase in my life ... I must keep the momentum and motivation going strong coz I am giving myself 6 months to get a new wardrobe. Time to make my new year resolution come to pass. I used to fear going to the gym coz of my size ..... since I started working out at the treadmill at home, I know that my stamina had improved and now I want to incease the intensity of the workout. Anyone wanna join me .. just give me a buzz .. I got a couple of 2 weeks free gym passes. It will be great to have a workout buddy. Whether I get a workout buddy or not ... I am doing this for myself and this time I want to make it.

I will meeting a friend who is gonna help me start it off right .... to learn how to set up a goal and to plan out a proper workout regime so that I can stick to it and make it work.

Ok time to get ready and get my butt out of my apartment. Have a great weekend guys.

Another try

2009-06-06T11:10:00.002+08:00

I am gonna try joining the gym again ... I joined True Fitness 3 years back and due to work and procrastination I was not that regular. Recently I had been having missed heart beats ..... and some chest pains but thank God ... after a check up and stress test ... I am ok so far. In the process, I had started walking daily on the treadmill and at work I keep track of my steps with a pedometer.... tryin to hit 10000 steps a day which is the recommeded daily exercises. So far I average around 6000-8000 steps a day. I can now brisk walk and jog on the treadmill but I felt I wanted more variety to work out different parts of my body ... so it is time to get out and join a gym and break free from the past. Let's hope I get a good deal today at True Fitness USJ. I dont want to lose the momentum that I have gain these past few weeks.

Meeting old friends

2009-05-30T17:56:00.003+08:00

Thanks to Facebook, I was able to find some of my old friends ... and some of them found me as well .... I re-connected with friends from Canada (where I did my grade 12), India ( where I did my pre Uni and medical degree ), Malaysia ( especially my old friends from secondary schools ), USA, etc. I was overseas for about 12 years since I finished my Form Five in 1988. I got back from India in 2000. Since I got back I had just been work and working. I have lost track with so many friends. I kinda got used to being by myself ...... when I was in USA and Canada ... I spend most of the time by myself. Though in Canada, I kept myself busy with church activities and I made some great friends as well. But I wonder when I had undergone the transition into a hermit all these years... and I realized it started when I started working in 2000. Due to my work schedule I was not able to hang out so much with friends and after a while I guess we all just drifted apart. Some say coz I was negative but after much thought ..I don't think that I was negative ... I just learned to adapt and move on with my life..... no point building castles in the skies...and no point crying over spilled milk..... I have never really closed my heart to the idea of making new friends ... in fact I welcome new friendships ... and I have learned to accept that there will be differences ... different wavelengths and I can't please everyone. I used to feel bad about it ... but as I come to terms with life .... with myself ... with others .... we win some and we lose some .... that is life ... we can never have everything. I treasure whatever I have now. And as I learned to let go ..... I find contendment .... I find peace as I learn not to hold on so tightly to anything or anyone.

Since I have changed to a 8-5 job ... I find that I have the stamina and the "conscious level" to meet up with people after work ... previously I was just too zonked out .... too tired to be bothered. So recently I have already met up with 2 of my old classmates and it was great meeting up ... it was as if I have never left in the first place ... I have been away for far too long. I realized that there were some who were there for me all these while..... it was great to catch up on what had been happening in our lives. I have not met these guys for like 21 years .... wow nearly 2 decades. There were ups and downs ... joys and pains ... success and failures ......and time waits for no man ..... some of us learned to cope and some of us are just hanging on .... but it is great to know that we are there for one another.

So this Friday ... I will be meeting another old classmate for lunch during my long lunch break. Ok I gotta get ready to go back to Seremban as Kok Hon is getting married tomorrow !!!!!

Do have a great weekend guys.

Time alone ......

2009-05-22T20:00:00.003+08:00

I took this picture when I was in Tioman with my cell group a couple of months back. Actually I went to Tioman right after I got back from Bali. I like moments like this by the beach .... sitting by the beach .... watching the waves come and go .... the feel of warm sand in between my toes .... maybe I should just move to an island ... such bliss .... so carefree..... these are the moments that I treasure .. time alone to reflex ... to unwind ... to turn off the handphone .... away from the internet and the emails..... to just bask in God's creation ... to love Him and to be loved Him.

Protecting my eyes

2009-05-11T17:57:00.002+08:00

Protecting my eyes
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

Never knew the importance of a good pair of sunglasses until I bought
a pair of Ray Ban from my friend's shop in Seremban. I had started
wearing contact lens again as I got a couple pairs of monthly
disposable lens which I bought sometime back. I was never comfortable
with the Johnson&Johnsons acuvues or Bausch&lombs contact
lens......they tend to get uncomfortable after a couple of hours. I
started wearing Eyevue contact lens with 55% water content recommended
by my friend and they are so comfortable. I had worn them a whole day
and they still feel great. That is when the sunglasses came in handy
when I drove back from Seremban to USJ. The sun was glaring but
because of the sunglasses my eyes were not strained and I could see
clearly in the hot bright sun. My friend recommended a couple of funky
modern designs but I stuck to a more conventional design and the lens
are made of glass so they won't scratch so easily. So far I am using
the sunglasses regularly to protect my eyes not to mention protection from UV rays :)

Back to work

2009-05-11T07:32:00.001+08:00

Back to work
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

Finally back to work. Got up very early at about 545 am but kinda
lazed around. So here I am stuck in the jam in USJ. Looking forward to
work after a wonderful week with my family.

Time to go back

2009-05-09T16:03:00.003+08:00

Time to go back
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

Finally it is time to say good bye to Genting Highlands. I had a great
time. Really bonded with my parents and had a great time chatting with
my parents. Their words were words of wisdom and they have instilled
in me my principles in life.

It was nice knowing how the simple things in life helps to lessen a
lot of unnecessary stress and contendment in life is the way to go.
Learning to let go. I used to hold so tightly to the reins of my life.
I wanted to be in control. There are so many things and situations
which are beyond my control. Learning to let go and letting God be
the God of all of me and letting Him on the throne of my life had
taken away a lot of needless stress, headache and heartache. I thank
Him for all that happened in my life be it be good or bad and these
are the spices of life which in the end makes life worth living. We must
know sadness in order to appreciate happiness, turmoil to appreciate
peace, loss in order to appreciate companionship.

Fresh air in Genting Highlands

2009-05-09T01:57:00.002+08:00

Fresh air in Genting Highlands
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

Stepped out of the hotel for some fresh air and it is refreshing. Even
at 2 am it is buzzing with life. It was great to spend some quality
time with my patents. I am glad that I tagged along. Coffee Bean is
packed with people. I just came for a night walk by myself. I like
times like these where I can just be quiet by myself .... it is less
complicated this way and just treasure another day to be alive.

Arrived safely in Genting

2009-05-07T20:37:00.002+08:00

Arrived safely in Genting
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

Finally arrived safely in Genting Highlands. Will be staying in Resort
Hotel. My dad had some vouchers as a birthday gift from Genting
Highlands. Yippee found Coffee Bean. Gonna be relaxing there. Hope
they have wifi.

On my way to Genting

2009-05-07T17:43:00.002+08:00

On my way to Genting
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

Finally on my way to Genting. Alot of things happened today. A huge
hard fruit fell on my windscreen in the morning when my dad was
driving my car.... Good thing it was laminated security glass so the
windscreen did not shatter on my dad .... Phew so my dad and bro in
law got it fixed while I drove my sister's car to drop off my bro and
his family to catch the flight back to Bangkok. My mom's car is still
stuck in the workshop so that was why I decided to go with my parents
to Genting. It will be great to spend time with my parents. Most of
the time I will be by myself. I really hope that it will not be warm
in Genting. Brought my walking shoes and pedometer along and I want to
put them to good use.

I had a nice long chat with my mom while driving to the airport to
pick up my dad last Tuesday. It was nice. Talked about my life, work,
etc..... It was great to get a second opinion on certain matters in
life and it was good to know that I had taken the right path and made
the right decisions.

I realized that alot of things that used to have its hold over me, had
finally lost its grip. Alot of things that used to trouble me had now
stopped bothering me. I realized that God in His grace had
strengthened me and helped me to learn to let go of alot of things in
my life. His peace that transcends all understanding which the world
cannot give guards my heart and mind. Many times I am surprised that
things that used to trouble me had lost its grip over me. Learning to
let go and stop fighting actually gave me more in return.

Events in my life had taught me to treasure life. I realized that life
is so fragile and one can lose it all in an instance in a twinkling of
the eye....all can be lost. I fix my eyes on Jesus the One Who holds
my life in His hands ..... the One Who I will finally see face to face
when I finally draw my last breath here on this earth. I am just
passing by here on this place called earth.

Time for good byes

2009-05-07T14:14:00.003+08:00

Time for good byes
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

I have never been good with good byes maybe coz I get attached to
someone fast. Today it is time to say good bye to my bro, sis in law
and my niece. Having our lunch together before they fly back to
Bangkok. Looking forward to Genting highlands later today ...... Some
quiet time for myself to relax and reflect about my life and the path to
take. Will be there till Saturday. Nice fresh air during my morning
walks and quiet time with God. To connect with my Maker and the Lover
of my soul.

These are the special times

2009-05-06T21:07:00.002+08:00

These are re special times
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

These are the special times. The whole family went for a family
portrait and we decided to have dinner at Sushi King in Jusco. It was
great having a meal together with the 2 new adition to the family.
Both my nieces are joy bringers and we all absolutely adore them.
These are the special moments that brings a smile to my face and I
don't wanna miss any of it. The joy on my parents' face. The kids
laughter. Thank God for families.

It is great to be home

2009-05-05T15:01:00.002+08:00

It is great to be home
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

It is great to be home. Finally all of us are together. My bro flew in
from Bangkok with his family. My sister and her family is back. Dad Is
flying in from Indonesia in re evening and I will go pick him up
later. I can finally see both my nieces together. Currently at Jusco
Seremban. Brought my bro and his family out coz they wanted to buy
diapers for their daughter. We plan to take a whole family portrait
on Wednesday. It will be awesome.

These are the precious moments in my life. It only comes once and will
not repeat itself as time waits for no man. As I reflect upon my life.
I don't regret the choices that I have made. I have made a decision
and a career change so that I have time for the thing that matters
most. I have more time for myself, my family and God. Family is a
haven of rest and comfort from the turmoil out there. No masks to
wear. Nothing to hide. Only love and acceptance. Thank God for
families. It is great to be home.

Rakuzen Japanese Dinner in Subang Jaya

2009-05-04T22:01:00.003+08:00

I had always liked the food in Rakuzen. The last time I had Rakuzen was the lunch buffet at Rakuzen branch in Chulan Square. Last week of my friends wanted to try out the newly opened Rakuzen branch in Subang Jaya. We arrived at about 730 pm and the place was already full and we had to wait awhile as we did not make any reservations. The service was great ...... the waiters were very polite and helpful. The Subang Jaya branch did not offer any buffet, so we could only order the ala carte dishes.

A curvy cup .. we ordered green tea :)
All the fresh raw fish :)
Nicely arranged cutlery
Soft shell crab roll maki
Scallops miso soup ... very yummy RM 10 per bowl
Beef enoki ... beef rolled mushrooms.... very nice
We ordered avocado seafood salad ... very nice .. avocado, crab meat, salmon and lots of vegetable
Yummy fresh salmon sashimi
Both of our favorite dish - Grilled Unagi .. heavenly
My friend ordered the sesame ice cream ... very smooth
I ordered the green tea ice cream.

It was a wonderful evening .... chatting ... talking about life .. about God.

Here are the details for Rakuzen Subang Jaya

No 15, Jalan SS15/5A, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
(03) 5880 4717	(03) 5880 4948

They could not - sung by Sandy Patti

2009-05-01T13:02:00.004+08:00

They could not - sung by Sandy Patti

They looked at Him and saw a single man
A carpenter with healing in His hands
They saw Him calm a sea and heal a dying man
They saw but could they really understand

They could not, They could not
Though they tried, they could not
He was just a simple carpenter but with healing in His hands
But could they really understand, they could not

They listened to the teaching that they heard
They wondered at the mystery of His word
They wondered what He meant, about a Father's plan
They heard but could they really understand

They could not, They could not
Though they tried, they could not
They listened to the teaching about a Father's plan
But could they really understand, they could not

So finally upon a rugged cross
They killed the man who would not suffer loss
And when at last they took what willingly He gave
He died, but could they keep Him in the grave

They could not, They could not
Praise God, they could not
And when at last they took from Him what willingly He gave
Could they keep Him in the grave, could they keep Him in the grave,
Could they keep Him in the grave...

They could not, They could not
Praise God, they could not
And when at last they took from Him what willingly He gave
Could they keep Him in the grave, could they keep Him in the grave,
Could they keep Him in the grave, They could not!!!!

This song was playing on repeat in my car for the past one week while I drove to work. It started since Easter and I have been attending SIB KL regularly. I bought the Pastors message on the Cross on audio cds. I have been listening to the message in the car while I drive to work. I accepted Christ in 1988. It has been so long ... and it is so easy to act, talk and walk like Christian. The foundation bible study classes was a great way to go back to the basics, the foundations.

The lyrics ... every single word permeated my very being .... the singer is a very anointed singer and the words sung by her was powerful and it ministered to me. Every morning while I drove to work was an hour to worship God, to love Him....to be thankful that He came into my life .. that I could hear and understand Him and let Him accept me.

On my way home

2009-04-29T17:32:00.002+08:00

On my way home
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

On my way from work. This is the usual route I take. Hospital Kuala
Lumpur to Mahameru Highway to Bangsar to NPE to USJ. Thinking of going
for a walk in Sunway Pyramid.

On my way to dinner

2009-04-27T19:28:00.002+08:00

On my way to dinner
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

On my way to dinner. Meeting a friend at the Organic Vegetarian
restaurant at SS15. I can stock up on some organic stuffs.

My usual breakfast nowadays

2009-04-27T13:52:00.002+08:00

My usual breakfast nowadays
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

I have been slowly making changes to my diet. I have started taking
oat meal for breakfast. It took some time to get used to it. Now
started adding stuffs to make it more appealing.... For eg : apples,
prunes, raisins etc. Hope I can keep this up.

Anyone has anymore suggestions to make the oatmeal tastier ? Do share
it with me. Thanks.

My niece

2009-04-27T13:39:00.003+08:00

My niece
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

How can you not fall in love with her? So adorable. My two months old niece.
Next week I will be meeting my other niece who will b about 8 months
old. My bro, sis in law and Jerwei will be flying in next week. Really
excited to meet them all. Finally we can have a complete family portrait.

Life is short and unpredictable. I wanna make sure that I spend quality
with friends and loved ones.

Low Yat here I come

2009-04-25T10:49:00.002+08:00

Low Yat here I come
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

Just finished breakfast with a few church friends and am now my way to
Low Yat to meet up with a dear friend who needed some help to buy some
IT hardware. Back to the plae of temptation for me. Currently in USJ
heading towards Kesas to Low Yat. Listening to the sweet voice of the
unbeatable Diva - Mariah Carey. She really managed to pull herself
together.

Fish porridge

2009-04-19T14:25:00.002+08:00

Fish porridge
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

Most of the time after church I usually have lunch on my own. Since
had some grocery shopping to do Carrefour Subang Jaya, I decided to
have porridge at Uncle Lim's in Subang Parade. I had not gone there
for quite some time. Now they offer chicken& fish porridge. I decided
to try the fish. Still very yummy. Alot had happened in my life since
I came back from Bali/ Tioman. I will slowly update this blog. Ok guys
have a great day. Time to chow down my food.

PC Fair 2009 Here I come !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-04-11T08:38:00.002+08:00

I got up really early today... I will be going to PC Fair 2009 today !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Planning to meet a friend for breakfast and we will catch the monorail to KLCC. I wonder what temptations will arise in PC Fair 2009 !!! A tempting one is the P1 Wimax Wiggy with a free Acer One Netbook :)

Ok if you see me in PC Fair just give me a buzz.... have a great weekend guys

Up and down

2009-04-09T12:48:00.002+08:00

Up and down ... life is like that ... one day we are up and the next day we can be down. What a yoyo life. Sometimes I lost track of life ..... I take each day as it comes. Reminding myself that in the end my life is God's hands. Putting my hopes on things tangible sometimes disappoint. Right now I am not sure about my future ... it is up and down...even in the place I am working right now ... I thought I had it all planned out ... what courses I will take next year .... where I wanna further my studies ( yeah some people will think that I am mad to study again after the traumatic time I had doing my masters last time where I eventually did not pass but the experiences gained was worth it ). Maybe I just need to learn contentment in whatever situation that I am in now and that I dont need to gain another title or degree ... but is it wrong to want to learn more ... to make myself better. And is failing once means that you are a failure forever. That is how the government sees us masters drop outs ...it seems that if you have applied for masters before and did not pass .. you are blacklisted and NOT entitled for any other masters program EVENTHOUGH you want to pay for the fees yourself !!!!! When I found out about this .... my plans to study MPH next year in UMMC just caved in ... now I must figure out what I wanna do again ... maybe try to get a scholarship next year .. maybe maybe ..... the light at the end of the tunnel is flickering again but deep down in my heart .. I know that no matter what happens to me .. my life is in God's hands. Speak peace to my heart and mind, dear Lord and show me Your will and the path that I should take. Amen

Just got back from Penang

2009-04-06T23:07:00.002+08:00

Just got back from Penang ... took a slow drive today after a dim sum breakfast with my buddy. Came home .. did all the laundry .... got the things ready for work tomorrow ... play the piano for a short while and it is time to hit the sack. Will post more pictures later. I always love the hawker food in Penang .. definitely a place I dont mind settling in later ... but just cant really stand the drivers though... ok good night .. over and out.

Should I ???????????

2009-03-31T19:54:00.005+08:00

Should I ? Should I ? Since I was off today I was able to have long chat with a sales person at Switch Gurney Plaza .. oh yeah I am in Penang for a week .. I am attending a seminar from Wed to Friday at Berjaya Hotel. I am now in Starbucks.

Well according to that guy ... the iphone is telco unlocked so I can use it for Digi, Celcom or Maxis .... cool ..... but the packages are quite expensive. Nowadays I only spend about 50-80 bucks a month on my Digi phone bills .. I dont call or sms as much nowadays.

Hmmm should I ? Hands very itchy now for the iphone 3G .... what spell has Apple put on me ???? Aaaahhhhhhh!!!!!!

Taken at Starbucks Borders. Found a nice spot to charge my macbook and surf the net.

Have a great week guys.

I hate waiting at the bank

2009-03-30T12:45:00.003+08:00

I really hate going to the bank ... that is why I like doing all my banking transactions online. I was forced to go to the bank today as my atm card security chip was faulty and I was not able to use it at the atm machines. I waited nearly one hour just to be called to the counter and the transaction to replace a new atm took only 10 minutes !! And I thought waiting at the clinic to see the doctor was long.

Good thing I had my PSP to keep me company while waiting for my turn.

How to MMS to Blogger

2009-03-27T18:51:00.002+08:00

How to MMS to Blogger
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

This post is for See Teck.

How to blog via mms. I use flickr to blog as the mms to blogger is still not functioning well.

First you need to open a flickr account.

Go to your account settings

Go to Extending Flickr tab and create your blog account link to Flickr

Go to the email tab

Create an email address to send your mms.

Now all you have to do is send the mms to the flickr email and your mms will be posted in blogger.

More more Bali !!!!

2009-03-26T09:01:00.005+08:00

More of Bali pictures ..... the 3rd day in Bali we took the one day tour. Initially they brought us to the handicraft centers ... for batik and silverware
Delicate work with full concentration
The mould for the designs
Hand painted
Soldering fine silver.
A huge work force

The polishing which makes the silver shines ... lovely
Next we took a slow drive to Kintamani ... soaking in the culture and beauty of the rural areas. There were a lot handi craft places along the way.
Finally reached Kintamani .... the volcano is still ALIVE !!!! and can erupt anytime. Erm I did not drink that Heineken ... I included it in the picture to add some element.
The glorious Kintamani
There was was this restaurant where you can have your meal and soak in the beautiful scenery. But it was kinda expensive so we walked around for a cheaper alternative.

Finally found a place where the food was cheaper and yummy.

Erm can remember the name if this fruit but some of my friends really liked it...it was given free by the waiter ... GRATIS
After Kintamani .... we went to Ubud to look at more handicrafts and clothings at the market .... have to bargain or else the prices will be sky high.

The Love Birds

2009-03-25T09:41:00.003+08:00

Just some pictures of the love birds....some of the pre wedding photographs I took. I have not done a lot of tweaking yet for the photos.... just some slight adjustments. Actually I have taken photos for them while we were in India, Seremban and now Bali. I hope that they like the photos :)

Hmmm sometimes the tweaking I did .. does not appear on the monitor .. maybe I have to calibrate the color monitor of my macbook.

More of Bali.... more scenery shots for FableFrog

2009-03-24T09:06:00.006+08:00

This time I will post up more pictures of scenery as requested by Fable Frog who is recovering now at home. I pray that he gets well soon.

So I will skip to some scenery shots. These pictures were taken on Day 2 when we went for a half day tour to some beaches and Uluwate Monkey Temple.

We traveled in a very nice and comfortable Suzuki APV. The ride was not bumpy and the air con was super cool. I was shivering most of the time since I was sitting in the front seat.
The driver first brought us to Dreamland Beach ... there was NOTHING "dreamy" about it. It was still not fully developed yet and most of the tourist who walked past us told us that they regretted coming to this beach. Well since we reached, I thought I will just go take a few pictures of the beach. It was super HOT and I can feel the sun rays reaching my bones !!!! Good thing I applied lots of sunblock.
The beach ... quite empty
Nice waves but I dont see alot of people on the beach...it was just too hot at that moment .. it was about 330 pm
Some stairs leading to unfinished construction.

After taking the photos, we head over to Uluwatu, the Monkey Temple.
Breathtaking sight !!!! I did not take a lot scenery pictures as I was concentrating more on taking pre wedding photographs for my friends Kok Hon and Boon Ping .. more on them later .. there will be a post just on the photos I took of them.
I like the take shots like these ... in pairs or in threes ... showing the first one clear while the rest will be blurred out ... it gives a sense continuity.
Nowadays I like to add in some people element .... opsss I think this monkey got in the way :)
Here you go ... nothing like a beautiful woman being part of the scene :)
Bali is full of amazing structures and scenery.
Top of the hill where the temple is .... it was just too crowded with people on top.
The love bird again.
After Uluwatu .... we went over to Jimbaran Beach for our sunset seafood dinner.
A lot of tables laid out in the beach .... people came early to watch the sunset.

Lovely sunset thought it was a bit cloudy.

More pictures to come after I sort it. This trip .. I took more pictures of my friends instead of the scenery. I plan to go again one day .... a photography trip ... just to soak in the culture and beauty of Bali and to capture.

Bali Day One - continued

2009-03-23T13:41:00.007+08:00

After we checked into the hotel .. we were famished. We decided to go out and look for lunch. We asked around for a cheaper alternative than all the tourist spots and found out that there is place where the local people go to .. Warong Indonesia.
I wonder how she managed to balance that box over her head and still look so graceful ... so I could not help but snap a few pictures of her :)
She gave me a smile and carried on her way.
This restaurant ... was about 5-8 mins walk from Dua Dara Hotel. A simple lay out ... tables and benches.
It was located in a small alley.
Kok Hon enjoying the Avocado Drink.
I really like the avocado drink laced with chocolate .. YUMMY !!!!! A definite must have when u go to Bali.
Drink avocoda not enough and then he also wanted his fiance's orange juice !!!!!
One or 2 not enough ... HE WANTED ALL 3 drinks !!!!!!!! Drink until sweating plus plus ... haha
Boon Ping, Kok Hon's fiance.
I ordered the seafood fried rice ... It looks really yummy !!!! But to be honest .... erm it was not tasty at all ... so after this lunch .. we avoided this place.

Bali Here I come !!!!!

2009-03-20T12:33:00.003+08:00

Bali trip was lovely and slowly and I am looking through the photos I have taken. We managed to buy tickets from AirAsia during the zero fare promotion last year. So we have been looking forward to this trip since last year. All packed and ready to go .. one of our friends offered to drive us to the airport. We will be in Bali from March 2nd to March 5th.
My friend taking the "kampung" way to the airport.... no need to pay tol.

We had McD while waiting flight. Actually bought drinks and had nasi lemak which bought on our way to the airport.
AirAsia !!! Now everyone can fly !!!!!!!!!
Landed in Bali safely....and immediately I was struck by the beauty and the culture around me. The people were so creative and artistic. The engravings and sculptures were breathtaking.
Taking the cap to our hotel. We made made bookings earlier over the phone. The hotel was Dua Dara ( 2 Virgins - ahem ahem )
The streets were full of motorbikes.

More to come as I sort the photos .... :)

Trial of MMS blogging

2009-03-17T19:17:00.002+08:00

Trial of MMS blogging
Originally uploaded by sbanboy

I am really glad that it is school holidays..I can get up late and still reach work on time. I even get back home earlier than usual. One week of bliss before school starts again next week. I decided to have dinner at Sushi King at Summit....it had been a long time since I last ate there. I also wanted to try out whether the MMS works...hopefully it does.

Little did I know

2009-03-16T22:10:00.003+08:00

I have always shared about how I have built strong walls around my heart and that I have guarded them fiercely so that I will won't get hurt again ...... it was a protective mechanism perfected over the years .... I seldom let my guard down. Little did I know that the walls that I thought would protect me from others .... actually stopped God from reaching deep down. The walls that I thought were meant to keep me safe actually kept the One True Lover of My Soul at arm's length as well. It was also isolating me from God.

The revelation came recently... and it started as a prayer and surrendering when God cornered me while I was on a mission trip to India last year in November. I told Him to take all of me ... leave nothing behind. It really broke my heart that I was actually shielding myself from the One Who I love .. Jesus Who died for me on the Cross. Slowly and painfully the walls are coming down .. stone by stone .. He is gently doing the surgery on my heart .... to turn a heart of stone into flesh again .... to love again ... to hurt again ...to trust again ....... I am scared .... afraid of what is instored for me if I let my guard down but His loving voice keeps wooing and reaassuring me ....His Words of Love fills me until I cant contain it any longer .... He is filling me to the brim and overflowing ...... His gentle and strong hands remove each stone perfectly at the right time so that the whole wall wont crumple at once but in stages so that it will not be so painful and scary for me. But the walls must come down .'.. and it will be painful ... venturing into unchartered waters.... He loves me too much to let me remain this way. What can I do but to surrender to Him .... I abandon myself to Him ... trusting Him to shield me ... no longer will I defend myself or build walls in my own strength but He alone will be my Shield and Defender. Amen..

Don't Let Me Stop You - By Kelly Clarkson

2009-03-16T22:01:00.003+08:00

Don't Let Me Stop You - By Kelly Clarkson

I used to be a little bit shy, I kept my deepest feelings inside
Speaking up to you about my emotions has always been hard
But this just can't wait, tonight I feel a little bit brave
So I won't let one more day pass without me explaining what we are

This is gonna sound kinda silly
But I couldn't help but notice
The last time you kissed me
You kept both eyes open
Baby, can you tell me what does that mean?
If you're looking all over your shoulder
Then you don't need to be with me
And I don't need to hold on

[Chorus]
Don't let me stop you from doing what you wanna do
You don't wanna stick, trust me it's cool
Take no chance gettin' over you
No, no, don't let me stop you, if you wanna leave, baby you can leave
Just don't pretend that you're into me
If it ain't true, no, don't let me stop you

A lot of things I can take, gotta high threshold for pain
But let's get one thing straight, I'm not down to share you with anyone
If that's not what you're looking for, nice knowing you, but there's the door
Cause I know that I can find someone to give me what I want

This is gonna sound kinda silly
If you're looking over your shoulder
Then you don't need to be with me
And I don't need to hold on

[Chorus]

Even if I end up broken hearted, I won't lie
I don't wanna hear goodbye, but other way I'll be alright

[Chorus 2x]

YES SHE is BACK !!!! Finally bounced back with a brand new album and this is one of my favorite songs .... the Kelly Clarkson trademark is back !!!!

Under the weather

2009-03-15T20:45:00.002+08:00

I just got back from my trip to Bali and Tioman with 2 different group of friends and I must say that I had a great time. Especially bonding with the cell group in Tioman as I have just started attending SIB KL. Somehow the Love of Christ is the glue that holds and bonds us all together.

Unfortunately I have not been well since I got back from my trip. I have been coughing, having running nose, fever and frequent headaches until I had to take a day off on last Thursday. I dragged myself to work on Friday as I did not want to waste another leave just resting at home but I was so bad that my boss sent me back after lunch. I have not been this sick in a long long time ... the last was last year when I was having severe diarrhoea where I need Intravenous Drips as I was so dehydrated from all the purging. Was really so tired and weak that I ended up missing the Cell group meeting and church this morning. I hope to recover soon. Do pray for me.

I have a lot of photos to share from my 2 trips ..... and they have left a sweet memory spot for me in my heart always. In the meantime ... I will try to recover soon. Been popping in medications and supplements like nobody's business.

My first accident in KL

2009-02-19T09:23:00.002+08:00

I have been driving in KL for a couple of years now and so far I have not been in any accident before..... well there is always a first time for everything. I had my first accident in KL last Tuesday while driving back home from a FranklinCovey workshop. I was driving in the middle lane in Federal Highway just past PJ Hilton Hotel on my left... it was a 5 pm crowd and everyone was driving slowly. The traffic came to stop. I stretched out ... saw that the Nissan pickup truck behind me also stopped.... and in a split second I heard a loud bang from behind ..... I still could not believe that I was involved until I got out of my car .... it seems that a 3rd pickup truck was driving quite fast and lost control of his brakes and slammed into the pickup truck behind me which slammed into me. Good thing both of us had our hand brakes on or else I will crash into the car in front of me. Anyway managed to settle the police report in a couple of hours.

My back, neck and shoulders were hurting badly and it got worse the next day. Currently on medical leave and resting at home. I was glad that my brother in law was also at Federal Highway and having him around was a great help and support. I thank God for His protection and that no one was hurt seriously.

To continue or not ??

2009-02-13T09:58:00.002+08:00

I have not been updating my blog frequently. Sometimes I wonder if I should continue this blog or not... is it time to pull the plug? Who wants to read it anyway? I dont get as much hits or comments as others. I have met some nice people through this blog ... some lasted ... some died off ...some felt they knew me from reading my blog ..... but most were too busy with their own lives....... some people when we finally met ... was so different from the way they project themselves in the blog.

I have been hurt, promises made which were broken, rejected, ignored ... I still dont understand how some people can just say things and dont mean it. To me .. "words without actions is dead" I have been hurt too many times by empty promises ... some say we will be best friends ... you mean so much to me etc ...but their actions tell another story. I used to forgive and forget and keep giving chances as I treasure friendships but over the years I realised that I could not go on living like this .... felt used and taken for granted. So I learn to move on .... to let bygones be bygones and just build walls around my heart ... to be stronger .. more resillient.

Finally the song I sang for Christmas presentation

2009-02-06T20:00:00.004+08:00

Hi guys .... my friend Kok Hon finally edited the song I sang for Christmas - You raise me up. I like what he has done with the video ... along with the lyrics of the song in english and chinese. Hope you like it.

Chinese New Year Feast !!!

2009-01-26T12:21:00.002+08:00

I always look forward to mom's cooking during Chinese New Year. This year there are only 4 of us .... dad, mom, my bro and me. Sister is doing her one month confinement in KL. Mom usually cook up a storm during the New Year Eve dinner. There will be roast pork, mushroom abalone, chicken etc.
All laid out on the table
Mushroom with abalone
Home made roast pork

Top ups after you finish the first bowl of rice.

The 1st day of Chinese New Year ... mom will cook a vegetarian dish.

Red fiber rich rice :D

I think I will need to go a one week fast to shed the extra pounds :D