柳暗花明

乐观的人也会有悲观的时候。
我不是圣人，所以我也不例外。
昨天，不知那个天使的探访，我突然开窍了。

每天的天气就像女人的心情一样，在你没注意的时候，一直在变化。
吃午饭的时候艳阳高照，喝下午茶的时候就刮风下雨。天上的云可真忙啊。
但这也印证了地球根本没有一刻是停止转动的。
秒针还在滴塔滴塔得顺着时钟旋转。
黑夜与白昼也随着时间交替。
既然宇宙都没有因为天灾人祸而休息，更不可能因为你不爽而停下来。
所以就只剩下两个选择 - 坐以待毙 / 柳暗花明。

一向都不喜欢浪费时间的我，绝对不会为了一个问题而执著太久。
尤其是那些超越我的解决能力的问题。
我太好玩了。苦恼的事，一点都不好玩。
不如简单点。伤心就哭，好笑就笑。
情绪过了就算了吧。

今晚的风很大，很凉。
闭上眼睛，感觉凉风轻轻地打在脸上。
顿时好像把烦恼都吹掉了。
积极了。高亢了。
我要继续享受青春去了！

Taiwan Finally

After three months of planning and anticipation, i've gone and now back.
Most people didn't believe that that was my inaugural trip to Taiwan as i appeared as if i was totally Taiwanese-cultured.
Well, all thanks to the years of Taiwanese-drama fanaticism, i didn't have problems with their language and communication indeed.
I managed to pick up the accent rather instantly which could easily feint my way through the locals. *proud* :)

As much as i thought Taiwan has a character of its own, i was a little taken aback by how underdeveloped this tourists-popular city is. Or perhaps not as developed as i had expected previously. The infrastructure was bad enough to dampen my mood with the airport-city-airport transfers. With an airport at the border, transportation could have been more thoughtful.
Same problem for some of the world-famous tourist attractions in the country when J and i were stuck in a cab at the dead end of a one-way street of Jiufen for a good 30 min in the downpour.
But i guess from the Taiwanese' perspective, they most probably didn't want to lose its heritage and run in the risk of being another commercialized product. So it'll just be another come-if-you-like-our-offerings kinda situation. Ok fine.

All thanks to the excessive exposure of Taiwan variety shows, i got to learn about the extensive range of Taiwanese local snacks which were enough to make me drool by just watching from the screen. I went with high anticipation but only left disappointed most of the time.
But i guess i'm one of the rare ones who detested the night markets and i'm glad to realise that i can be quite picky with food! Hurray! I'm not a glutton after all!
The worst of all was the smelly tofu of which if i could rank, top of the world's grossest food.
I totally cannot understand how on earth can a person shove a drainage pipe into their mouth.
Ok personal sentiment ya. Don't be offended if you are a fan of such a smelly tofu. :p

Well, having said that, there were definitely very positive places which sort of neutralized my disgruntlement. :)

Taipei 101
Instead of awing at the scenery from the 82nd floor, which is nothing much as compared to Seoul, my attention was drawn to the architecture of this state-of-the-art building. Standing 101 floors above ground and 5 floors underground, Taipei 101 clearly presented an evolution of technology Asia could offer. I was most captivated by this gigantic damper which was hung in the middle of the building to withstand the typhoons and earthquakes which Taiwan is highly exposed to. It serves as a pendulum that sways to offset the large movement of the building caused by strong winds. Very impressive!

淡水 (Danshui)
A little town at the north of Taipei, only 45 minutes away from the city by train, it clearly exuberates the tranquility necessary for a congested city. Don't get me wrong. The place wasn't deserted at all, in fact pretty crowded. But overlooking the coastline which seemed uninterrupted by the buzz, it's just peaceful. Of course, the bonus was when we could waste an afternoon at 榕堤水湾 (Rong-Ti Shui Wan) restaurant with a secured table by the sea. All thanks to J, the true blue fan of the 就想赖着你 (Down With Love) drama, who hunted down this restaurant that was featured in the show and making the reservation one week before our trip. I particularly liked 渔人码头 (Fisherman's Wharf) and 情人桥 (Lover Bridge) even when we couldn't catch the most-talked-about sunset with the cloudy sky. Still as beautiful. :)
阿妹茶馆 at 九份 (Ah Mei Tea House at Jiufen)
It was revived after the filming of an award-winning movie directed by the famous director, Hou Hsiao-Hsien. The chilling rainy day (like every other days) at the scenic mountainous area made a perfect setting for tea appreciation. I didn't realize i could appreciate (expensive. it cost closed to SGD50 for one kind of tea leaves, four pieces of small bites and one small dish of preserved plums) Chinese tea that much. Well, all thanks to the waiter who mistakenly gave us the table which should be reserved for the Japanese tour group too. Heh.
乾杯烧肉居酒屋 (Kanpai Yakiniku Restaurant) at 敦化南路
This was one of the, if not, most memorable dining experience i've ever had. The atmosphere was made so vibrant by their lively (and lovely *grin grin*) servers and their renowned kissing game (whichever two persons who can hold their kiss for ten seconds, they will be rewarded with a free plate of sliced pork) which was happening like any other moments. OMG. It was crazy and the noise was deafening! The images i vaguely saw in 败犬女王 (another drama, heh.) were far milder than the actual thing man. Considering the excellency of the "software", the "hardware" was not at all compromised. The cow was so succulent and well-marinated which i could safely say it's one of the top five best beef in my list. Heavenly! And of course, the bonus of the bonuses were the cute and warm servers! My favourite was Lu Lu and here's a pic of him (the one behind)! Hohoho... I'll sure to return some day!
花莲 (Hua Lien)
Located southeast to Taipei and approximately 2.5 hours train ride away, Hua Lien county is perhaps what Taipei was like fifteen years ago. No trace of skyscrapers and commercialism, we went back to simplicity in the heavily tribal-influenced civilization. The lunchboxes which have been their daily affair became a fascination to us and it was so tasty that i felt like having a second one. Taroko Gorge was pretty self-contained, by which i meant it has the sky, the sea and the mountains so by just visiting that, i felt i've covered the "nature part" of Taiwan. But having said that, i've to disclaim that i am not at all a nature enthusiast, so what i deemed as sufficient might not apply to the majority. And to further prove my point, it was almost to the point of eruption when the over-enthusiastic tour guide-cum-driver made us go up and down his cab for umpteen times and instructed us to walk through numerous caves and narrow pavements. "都来到这里了 (since you've come all the way - literally)" has never been such an irritating phrase than before. But the beach-side bed-and-breakfast made up to any complaints that happened earlier. Apart from being new and clean, the warmth that lingered in the chilly after-rain air made us just wanted to laze around and do nothing. If the waves were less threatening and the sky less cloudy, it would be perfect. Oh and i've also tasted the best mua-chee ever!
Stay Real at 敦化南路 (Dun Hua Nan Road)
This was one of my POVs for visiting Taiwan. Stay Real is a fashion boutique opened by Ashin (Mayday) and being an ardent fan of him, i've been yearning to pay a visit and hopefully to be able to brush shoulders with him. Obviously the later didn't happen since this didn't appear at the beginning of this entry. But i had a wonderful time splurging browsing in the store that sells mainly street wear, t-shirts, caps etc. Honestly speaking, their designs are unique and stylish, so if not for the steep prices, i would have swept quite a few bagfuls. After a tough time of disciplinary control, i left the shop with two tees and a cap. :)
Mr J 北医店 (Bei Yi Dian)
Jay Chou's first movie that he directed 《不能说的秘密》 (Secret) became a hit three years back and seeing it as a business opportunity, he started a themed F&B outlet. The museum-inspired restaurant that displayed the antique piano, which was the biggest highlight in the movie; and wall posters of classic scenes, created a great ambience which brings the diners back to the movie. You just wanna watch the movie again after the meal. Since its opening three years ago, it has drawn curious visitors around the region, all eager to want to be part of the blockbuster. Of course, i was one of them. Heh. It was really pleasant.
Hello Kitty Sweets Cafe
Another themed cafe which i wouldn't recommend for the faint-hearted or if you are adverse to excessive pink stuff. Otherwise, i can't guarantee that you won't be nauseous after the experience. Heh. Personally, i'm not a HK fan but i won't decline anything that's pink either. Upon observation, i have to say that they have really put in a lot of effort to the slightest details to ensure authenticity. As much as i might be skeptical towards the quality of "pretty foods", especially cakes and desserts, they had somehow proven me wrong. J and i were quite pleased with our cakes and the cafe being wifi-enabled was a bonus to our dining experience. :)
Alright, these kinda summed up my memories of Taiwan.
I'm quite sure i will return some day, after Japan, Australia, Korea (again), Hong Kong (again) and.....yeah just some day. :)

Click here for more pictures!
Album 1
Album 2

Selamat Hari Raya

Ok i didn't keep to my promise of dedicating more time to my space.
Getting lazy i've to admit. But i'm persistent of not letting this four-year establishment gone to waste!

All thanks to the Muslims, we have another long weekend again, one month after NDP.
Started with a lovely night on Thursday at Robertson Walk.
Had a Belgium affair with Kris, Candy and Jan at Brussels Sprout, over seafood and beer.
It has been a long time since i met these girls but there was no trace of us feeling distant as we chatted like never before.
Little did we bother about the boisterous noise of the surrounding diners, or rather we didn't fail to contribute to it. I like the bustle i've to say...
...but not too long i reckon. :p Eventually we had to adjourn to somewhere more peaceful in order to hear one another audibly.Unfortunately, we ended being the ones who disrupted the peace at TCC. Tsk tsk.
After promising one another that we have to meet up more often (as always the case), we headed home before midnight.
Woke up at 10ish for JEAKS gathering at K's place at the very festive Geylang Serai.
I was looking forward to it, largely the company, but also my first Hari Raya celebration at the precinct. I was expecting to see a vibrant street with buzz but i guess i forgot the Muslims celebrate their new year like the Chinese too.Who on earth will you see on the street of Chinatown on the first day of Chinese New Year?!
I met A and K at the Fairprice at Joo Chiat Complex to get the food for our steamboat party and as we were walking across the overhead bridge, i had to stop at catch a glimpse of the dead town.
In any case, we had a great time at K's place having steamboat, watch A's LoveSingapore video, play getting-to-know-you game and of course our studio shoot.
We laughed so much and so hard that by the time i had to leave for cell group, i was close to dozing off, which i did on my bus journey.

For the consecutive day, Persi and i spent our day at Koko's place again, with Grace and Timmy this time.We make it a point to gather at least once when Grace comes home and now with Koko's new (and convenient) home, it is made easier, especially with the baby.
We couldn't get enough of baby Timmy with his uber cute face. Even though he gives the only-you-think-you-are-funny look when four ladies tried to play silly just to steal a smile from him.
Isn't he so endearing??!! Awww...

Tomorrow marks the last day of the long weekend. :(
But i'm watching Going the Distance! :)

안녕하세요!

After "complaints" from friends that i've neglected my blog, i decided to dedicate (a bit more) time to it, as far as possible. :)

Since two weeks ago, i started on the Elementary Korean class at inlingua Language School.
Despite the conclusion i made ten years ago that i'm a zero linguist, i decided to give it another shot. Since 1) i need a pastime, 2) i've got somewhat an affiliation with Korea (country and friends) and 3) i've got companion.
There are only five people in the class including Mich, Jac and myself. We terrorized. Muaha!
However, after the first lesson, i regreted as i began to recall the 'curse' i made upon myself ten years back.
The teacher speaks only Korean in class and expects us to decipher the meaning ourselves. She would only explain in English or Mandarin if we are not getting close.
She makes us do role-play and it was only the first class that i got locked out because i couldn't complete my greeting sentences. :(
I felt underprivileged being a non-Kpop enthusiast. When the rest of my classmates could rattle off the names of the celebrities by just a look at the photos, i was still trying to make out the consonants and vowels. :(
To my surprise, when i told BB about my new pursuit, i found out that he has been taking private lesson for the past one year! OMG.
Oh on a related note, he received a gift from a friend who won champion in a KPop dance competition and decided to give the prize to BB. It consists of a pair of air tickets to Korea with three nights accommodation. With that, he is on his way to fulfill his dreams. Envious.
Now he could flaunt the language at real ground.
While i continue to struggle and dwell in my regretful decision.

After years of suffering from neck and shoulder aches, all thanks to the tiny laptop and poor ergonomic chairs in the office, it came to a point that i thought i should get real treatment.
Recommended by LY, i started sports massage at Core Concepts. Chope. Sports massage is not exclusively for sportsmen. Basically it's part of physiotherapy and it helps in the recovery of muscle issues.
After the first treatment, there will only be more pain than before as, in my theory, the muscles have been challenged and they aren't happy about it. At this point, it's really a matter of persistence.
If done regularly and with proper posture, the pain will ease eventually and there will be better flexibility as well.
I have the intention to start on my back muscle too as i really miss playing badminton and netball. I wasn't a born chiller alright.
Above all, i hope by getting active, i can shed some pounds too. I'm kinda sick of being fat.
Wish me the best!

It's Saturday again and it is not the same as before. Ever since Mummy changed her work schedule and had been permanently off on Saturdays, the idea of "a peaceful weekend" vanished instantly. Sigh.
Anyway, this evening, the Chinese Ministry has invited a guest speaker to talk on "Christians & Hungry Ghost Festival" and i'm bringing Mummy along.
Gotta get prepared!

Happy weekend!

Sat-a-day

Time flew past and today marks baby Alvis' arrival for one month.
Ten years ago, none of us would have thought that Gil will be the first to be a mum.
I guess, people do change.
It was a gathering of mothers and kids at the baby shower this afternoon and it seemed to be just yesterday that i saw them in the school assembly hall.
But today, they were cuddling the babies of one another and cajoling their babies to make friends with the rest of the babies. Rather comical.
Well, there i sat, a happy yi-yi playing with THE kid that attracted me most.
It's pretty obvious that i'm not a kid-lover and i play with kids for only two reasons. 1) They are truly adorable and most of the time, i think they have some resemblance to me when i was a baby (i was so cute that i won a baby competition alright!); or 2) they are the children of my close friends.
I'm perfectly fine with the idea of not joining the mothers community, not just because i'm incapable to have my own children, but i guess it's the lifetime commitment that i'm too fearful of.

From the countless weddings that i attended last year to the baby showers, i began to realise a common trend of Life Progression.
Then i wonder what is mine. Did i even progress?
Well, i guess i did.
Otherwise i wouldn't be working in the top employer-choice government organisation in Singapore and i wouldn't be owning my first cosy property now. Hmm..right?
Anyway, i'm not into dwelling-in-the-past but it is the future that i'm more interested in.
As much as i trust that God has a wonderful plan for my life, i do have a "back-up". Just to satisfy my obsession for Plans.
But!! I'm not gonna make it public here! Hah.
Ok i've digressed.

After the baby shower, few of us proceeded to Shots @ Ann Siang Hill for coffee.
Chic decor but coffee was very average. Having said that, i've to clarify that my taste has been spoilt by Oriole.
Now that i recall, it could also be due to the distressing topic we were talking about and in view of that, we could wait to disperse the group.
After which, it was left to a more comfortable combi of Fen and myself when we headed to ION for round three.
Each of us bought stuff for vanity (aka shopping) and satisfied our taste buds with delicious curry rice.
The highlight was this uber tasty Japanese steamed cakes from Mushiya Steamers, located at ION Food Mall.
It looks like our Chinese "huat kuey" but smaller and more colourful.

I love the kurugoma mochi kintoki (mochi in black sesame kuey) flavour and boy...i love it!
The texture is soft yet not soggy and the taste of black sesame is fragrant yet not overpowering. The mochi toppings complimented the cake very well too.
I'm keeping the chocolate chip one for tomorrow.

Getting late. Till the next time!

Farewell, Ken

Hi Ken,

How have you been? I hope you have settled down pretty well in another world. Were you happy with the memorial services put together for you? I've to admit that the one in Tourism Court was way too sad for your style. During the rehearsal, I felt as though you were around, correcting our notes and pitches and the impossible tempo which we could hardly catch. The memory was so fresh....

It was merely three years ago when i got the email from KL to ask if i was keen to go for an audition, after participating in a HR-organised singing competition. My only intention was to win the $200 CK Tangs voucher so that i could get nice utensils and cutlery for my new flat. Little did i know it would turn out something more rewarding than that. I was nervous yet excited for the audition, especially when it was conducted by the board's most talented and creative Director of Brands. A man who had always been up and above and known to be once the producer of the legendary musical Chang & Eng, was going to hear me sing? It sounded unreal but very flattering. However, your warmth and friendliness broke the ice almost immediately and it wasn't long that everyone got comfortable with one another and most importantly, with you. Eventually all the five brave souls were recruited into the troupe. Our first project was Staff Conference 2007 and i couldn't remember how did we manage to squeeze out so much time for the numerous sessions of rehearsals. I guess it didn't require much effort for doing something we liked. You tried very hard to perfect us but it was more important for you that we enjoyed ourselves. We did. Very much in fact. The day came and i saw you smiling widely at the front row, like a proud parent seeing their kids performing at some school function. You were so eager to gather feedback after the performance and obviously it was so positive that you couldn't wait to share your joy with us via email. You didn't keep the credit to yourself.

Subsequently, Music in Motion (thank you for giving me the opportunity to name the troupe) was formed and we dominated the stage of many official events thereafter. I was captivated by your melodious singing and was instantly blown away by your charisma when you played on the organ at every rehearsal. But i didn't think it was appropriate to tell you. Oh i didn't mean to roll eyes at you when you tried to decline our request to join us on stage when you obviously wanted to sing very much. I hope you didn't caught me from the mirror image but i thought you did. And despite complaining for singing "Uniquely You" for umpteen times, i kinda like that song pretty much. You were indeed a genius for creating a song with such a wide range.

Ken, you know, I regretted not telling you the differences you had made in my life in STB. At the time when i thought i was fading away in the monotony of life, you added colours and music which turned a graveyard into a flower festival. I began to look forward to come to work every morning, looking beyond the paperwork on my desk. You birthed the hidden desire in me and i never knew how much i like to be performing on stage. I saw a whole new perspective of the word "passion" in you and how one would never grow tired for the things they are passionate about. You became my role model in finding passion in my life and i wanted to learn from you so much and see things from your perspective. When i finally plucked my courage (and indicated my preference to transfer to the Marketing team), i didn't realised it was too late....

Sitting in the dance room two days after your departure, i could no longer hold back my tears. The thought of "gone were the good old times" was too heart-wrenching. Still in disbelief that you were gone so soon.

They wanted me to set a livelier mood in your remembrance video. I hope i didn't do too bad although i couldn't quite gather my thoughts in time to express myself. But whatever said was from the bottom of my heart.

I knew i had to do "Uniquely You" for the last time. During the rehearsal for your memorial service, the pianist asked if i knew how to operate the pedals of the organ. Subconsciously, i responded with "only Ken knows" and it suddenly hit me, how much i was going to miss you. During the actual performance, i tried my best to get a hold of myself but my vocal chord and hand seemed to be mourning as well. I'm sure you weren't pleased with the trembling voice and flat notes. But that was the highest honour i thought, to present the song to the composer.

Learned so much of your younger days at the tribute at Action Theatre. Suddenly felt so close to you but the irony was, i would never get to hear all these if not for this occasion. But having to witness your life journey, it somewhat seemed complete. Other than your inborn talent, i saw how well-loved you were as a sweet-natured man. Once again, i was glad that i saw that side of you at least.

Ken, it had been a fruitful journey. It's time to rest now but your legend shall live forever.

Missing you,
Bonny

Staff Conference 2007


Dinner and Dance 2007


Staff Conference 2008


Staff Conference 2008

"There's a place in my heart
That i keep for someone special
Memories forever true to me
Take me through those tougher days"
Music and Lyrics By ~ Ken Low

It's my birthday, so what?

I think i broke the most number of comments received on FB this month.
It started with many wishes on my birthday and indeed i had a good celebration, with many people. In fact, the dinners have not ended to date.
And then, in less than two weeks, the situation swung to the other extreme. My FB was filled with condolences with the departure of Gong Gong.
This was how dramatic my life can be.

On the night before i left for church camp, i visited Gong Gong at the hospital.
He was using all his might, grasping every breathe, but at the same time, trying to open his eyes to take a look at his granddaughter.
He had been warded on and off for the past year but this time, i could feel the difference.
For the first time, he held up his hand, wanting to hold mine.
As i held onto his cold and wrinkled hand, my tears became uncontrollable.
I said a prayer for him, even when he didn't know the Lord. But i thought it might comfort him a little.
When i left the ward, i felt rather uneasy but i prayed that God will hold the time till i returned.
Indeed, God is good.
Four days later, the first call after i crossed the custom was from Mum.
I dashed to the hospital, only to see Gong Gong lying peacefully on the bed.
As much as i was rational about such things, it didn't stop me from breaking down. I am still an emotional being anyway.
And then the procedures went on and when i had a chance to be quiet before the coffin, i began to think time is how merciless time can be.
Seven years ago, at the same void deck, the body that was lied in the coffin was Jia-Jia ("Granny" in Hakka). Where did that seven years go?
The memory of Gong Gong towing me to watch 《十三姐》 at Golden Mile Cinema only occurred twenty-three years ago. So what's in stored another twenty-three years later?

Oh well, i'm indeed feeling a little down after the series of events and emotions.
But i guess only i (and you) will know. I never like to disrupt the order of people's life, as far as i can.
And Bonny is always strong and fierce, she needs no one, does she?

夏天

夏天。热
虽然在一个四季如夏的岛国，也没什么夏天可言。
但偏偏就有几个月就特别“夏”。
我就出生在那特别“夏”的月份里，但我一点都不喜欢夏天。
心烦气躁不用说，精力也好像被那想杀死人的阳光给吸走了一大半。
呆在家也会冒汗。外出妆也会溶化。
说真的，我还有些冲动想移民。不晓得会不会成立？
有人说伦敦陈年都很阴霾，很没生气。
但至少不会炎热吧？值得考虑考虑。。。

夏天。酷
上星期观看了罗志祥舞法舞天演唱会。
小猪简直酷毙了。舞王的称号，毋庸置疑。
兼任主持人的他，口才真是没话说。把大伙儿的心都溶化了。
我希望努力的艺人。
当他们知道今日的成就得来不易时，所散发出的自信与光芒是令人感动的。
虽然唱功和舞台魅力还有进步的空间，但也没什么好挑的啦。

夏天。干
接到你的来电，很高兴。
但有必要那么尴尬吗？
难道真的有距离了吗？
或许我们已经习惯了通过电邮沟通了。
也没什么不好啦，能保持联络已经心满意足了。什么习惯都可以。
好希望能快点见面。。。

夏天。日
日前看了《就想赖着你》，久久难忘怀。
超爱羽平与杨果的恋情。
偶尔沉浸在梦幻似的爱情里，也毫无大碍吧。
让我对爱情还保持些憧憬嘛。
对了，最近日本仿佛成了热门之地。
看着“脸书”的照片，都让我好渴望哦。
是时候计划下今年的“与世隔绝 之旅”了！

God is good

Just got home from the second last session of Alpha and i also conducted my second talk for the season. Due to the Baptism Service this Sunday, we brought forward Alpha to Friday and it left me two days lesser to prepare for my talk. Well, nothing is impossible with God. :)
"Does God Heal?" was my topic and being the ambassador of the healing power of the Lord, i guess i just had to do the job. Whatever kind of healing you want, i've been through them myself. In another words - problematic lah.
There were pretty good testimonies from some of the rest as well and it's amazing to see how God has been working in our lives. He must be uber busy sia.
It has been almost two months of weekly Alpha sessions and i'm glad i can still look forward to it when Sunday approaches.
However, i realised i started to get a bit anxious with the new friends in our midst as they didn't seem to be moved at all. When i was praying for one of the girls and asked how have she been feeling after attending all the previous sessions, she said "nothing". In my mind, i could feel myself screaming "hello!! how can it be??? haven't you seen how real God can be??".
Obviously i didn't want her to stop coming, hence i could only end with a "take your time to explore k". Sigh.
In God's timing - was all i could console myself of.
At the end of the day, even if no one come to know the Lord, we trust that God is pleased with what we have done and am sure an impact, be it huge or little, has been left in their hearts.
In God's timing.

After Alpha, a bunch of thirty of us proceeded to Swee Choon Tim Sum at Jalan Besar for supper. My favourite place with cheap and tasty dim sum! :)
My table consisted of eight young girls (incuding myself and i don't care :p) ate like pigs! I think we ordered about thirty dishes and we cleaned the plates in less than twenty minutes. Tsook tsook.
Over the dining table, XX was sharing about a comment made by her male colleague that he likes girls who are needy.
While rolling my eyes, i began to realise that that's the natural egoistic trait of man, with a variation in magnitude of course. But in general, they need to be needed.
If that argument is valid, then i'm doom, i thought. I've been in the school of independence since young and most of the time, the only person i depend on is myself (and God of course). Well, with the exception of my three confidants where two of them are currently situated across the oceans, and of course my favourite Persi. They are the only ones whom i have no qualms to reveal my needs and weaknesses when i need to.
Not that i've been suppressing my emotions but the fact is, i don't have much "down" times to begin with. I like my life to be simple.
However, when i get whiny, those friends that i've mentioned will get it big time and i just have to salute their patience.
Anyway, coming back to the topic, i concluded that i'll be better to remain single than seeing someone with high insecurity. Eeewww...

Oh something random before i end this post.
About a week ago, i received an email of compliment from Mr Tan Pheng Hock, President and CEO of Singapore Technologies Engineering, on one of the cases which got me crazy couple of months back. In his email, he said..."Elizabeth had been extremely helpful and professional in the processing and it was done in a much faster time frame than previously." *blush*
To be exact, he addressed the email to my CEO and she graciously forwarded to me and all the management staff.
On top of that, i received compliments from my bosses directly too.
I was overjoyed and felt so blessed by the favour and recognition. :)
God is so good to me! :)

Good night world. ;)

Mission Unaccomplished

I feel so bad to neglect this space of mine for so long.
It's so long that i don't know where to start.

Hmm...let's see.
I organised my first corporate seminar for 300 people and it went pretty well. That was my first time emceeing for a business event too. My boss thought i looked too happy cos i tried to imagine it to be a wedding banquet. Well, tourism is not meant to be serious what.

I went for Sammi Cheng and Mayday's concert in a span of two weeks. Very cool!
Sammi's vocal and stage presence was awesome and even better than before. Power of the Holy Spirit! While i was thrilled by the Transformer and the fireworks at Mayday's National Stadium concert.

Visited Gracie in Chiang Mai and her baby Timothy is one of the cutest baby i've ever seen. I'm also glad that i broke the label of a jinx as bad things happened in my previous two trips to CM. Even though the situation at Bangkok was threatening prior to our departure. But yay! All thanks to direct flight on Silkair and posh apartment at Nimmanhaemin. JEKS had a fabulous time and we wished A was with us.

Alpha has started and being my first, i'm still feeling pretty excited about it. Considering that my Sundays were my "punctured" days, God has really sustained me through the past three weeks. :) The Holy Spirit descended when i was preparing for my talk "Who is Jesus?" for the first session. I was typing out my testimony as the last segment of the talk and as i recalled my life events, i was instantly overwhelmed by a strong sense of gratitude. It's rare considering the numerous times i've shared my testimony. But this time, i had to literally stop as i sobbed. Nevertheless, it was a good spiritual recharge! :) The talk was delivered very smoothly the next day.

...

I took one week to complete this post due to the recurring interruptions, so i better upload this first.
I'll be back with more k!
I'm not giving up on pinkbonny!

Tranquility in the midst of a storm

It's sad that i lost the momentum to blog.
The reason i could think of is the computer-resistance i'm suffering from. As long as i'm off-work, i wouldn't (want to) log on from any terminal. My pc at home has been dormant for almost three weeks, except the times when Mum uses.
Simply because it reminds me of work and work, has become the most detestable component in my life.
I hate to say that as for the past years, i've been the proudest among my peers for having the most desirable working condition.
Things took a 180 degrees change since months ago and i could almost draw the conclusion. Confidential of course. I is a gahmen worker!
So now i'm busy updating my friends that my work is as sucky as theirs.
Since i used to have low tolerance for people who lament about their work all-night-long, i shall try to refrain myself from doing so as much as possible.
But...i really loathe my job now!
Mid-life career crisis?
I realised the seven-years cycle is pretty contagious.
Between year one to three, life is like a bed of roses.
At year three to five, things start to get stagnant but still bearable.
At year sixth, things start to get annoying and every hiccup at work will get onto my nerves twice the impact. That's where i am now.
By year seventh, any other opportunity will seem to be better than the current.
Beng left at his seventh year of service too.
I is really quite sian. Sigh.
Have been seeking God for the revelation on the next phase of my life. Should i be moving on or not?
The last time i had career issues was six years ago and it's indeed more assuring now than then. Of course, the difference is with and without the existence of God in my life.
Oh wells, i shall be patient till He speaks.

Socially, it wasn't quite fulfilling as well as i didn't feel motivated to make any plans.
This also shows how much my friends rely on me to make the first move! Tsk tsk.
Had dinner and movie with Jac last Tuesday when i finally could leave office at 7.45pm.
n.y.d.c was comforting, even though Remember Me wasn't really engaging. I concluded that the problem lies on the actors, which is rare. Anyways...
Wednesday and Thursday were taken up by church and prayer meeting respectively. Seriously, i thank God for this community He placed me in. I believe it's His way of loving and supporting His children. =)
My mood picked up after i left office for physio on Friday afternoon, even when i didn't manage to complete my work and i had to continue at Mcdee (wi-fi friendly) after physio, before cell group meeting.
I simply couldn't wait for the weekend to arrive.
Saturday was spent the way i like. Met Wil for a quick lunch at Marine Parade Central, one of my favourite estate. I didn't realise the little malay store that sells good ayam penyet until that day.
Well, i would never realise since i've never gone further than the NTUC, and most of the time, i merely stayed in the air-conditioned PP. And immediately, i was labelled as a "princess". Fine.
After lunch, we headed to Kallang Leisure Park for Green Zone and i had a good lecture on US and the Iraqi War. A very manly (and shaky) show indeed. I think there were only two ladies in the half-filled theatre.
But i must say, KLP is a great alternative for movie if you want to avoid crowds on a weekend. However, make sure that you avoid days when there's a concert at Indoor Stadium. Otherwise, it might be worse than the malls in town.
After the movie, Wil drove me to Hairloom and Caramel at Shaw Tower as i needed to do some reading before meeting the girls later in the evening.
The CG girls were just gaga-ing the night before about this concept cafe, which later i realised it was opened by Wil's friend's friend. Such a coincidence.
Not too bad but it wasn't really a fancy.
We managed to spend over an hour in the cafe before we walked over to Raffles City when he went for his dinner and i met Joyce and the rest of the girls later at Kovan. We urgently needed to meet up for some serious discussion for a very exciting plan that's coming up! Heh!
Got home at 11ish after a fruitful 2-hour talk. Pretty eventful huh.

And then it was Sunday, and then...MONDAY which i've nothing much to talk about.
Till the next weekend...

My Brighton History

1. The first proper Christian church i visited when i became a Christian. Frankly the auditorium was part of the reason why i wanted to join Brighton. Quite cool leh i thought. So one sunday in September 2004, i attended my first service at SPC.

2. Coffee Bean at level one was our favourite hangout but i bet we were not their favourite customers. How do we expect them to like us when we share one drink amongst a group of six? But it was a good place for group discussions. Alternatively, Delifrance is a quieter place for deeper and more serious meetings.

3. Popular, NTUC, Watsons and This Fashion are our favourite (and only) shopping places when we need to take a walk after lazing at Coffee Bean for too long. I heard that the This Fashion at SPC is one of the largest outlet in Singapore.

4. Since the food court was the most frequent place for lunch, most of us hold a Kopitiam value card which entitle us to 10% (or was it 5%) discount. I will miss the sight of us occupying long tables, blasting away in laughter. It's like a school recess period.

5. Eversince i started attending Brighton at SPC, cab was my only mode of transport, in order to spend a few more minutes on bed. I would ask the cabby to drive all the way into the carpark so that the lift would just be 20 steps away. If there was another cab with alighting passenger in the car park, it would definitely be a Brightonite. It's a Brighton Trick. *wink*

6. I got my first (and only) Best Brightonite Award in 2005 and i'm glad i'm still in service and in fact i think i should be on my way to long service award.

7. I had the honour to be part of the most vibrant worship team, leading the congregation into times of worship as a vocalist on stage. The view of a worshipping congregation was magnificent. The work of the Holy Spirit.

8. I did my first drama production for Easter in 2009 as a stage manager. It's always a struggle to block the entrance and the "exit" sign as the big black cloth will never stay in tact. Oh i did my first acting role too, even when it's so tiny but Ah Gek will never be forgotten.

9. God (and some people) must be fed up with me for being late for service all the time. Hence they resorted to imposing a regulatory compliance on me by giving me a responsibility. Knowing that i'm the typical government worker, it works and i haven't hardly turn up late for service.

10. The best part of my memory i had in this Audi was when two of my good friends accepted Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. I could still identify the seats where they raised their hand to this life-changing decision. It's even more pleasing to know that they are still walking close with the Lord. =)

It has been a good 10 years and we are moving on, with the wonderful memories that will be part of the Brighton history.

last service at Singapore Post Centre on 14 April 2010

Back...again

Finally made the move to go to the gym but the plan was ruined just when i got out from the elevator.
It was closed for refurbishment since last Friday and would only reopen tomorrow, the security guard said.
Sigh, even the gym gave up on me.

The pain on the back is haunting me again for the past two to three weeks.
This is the longest it has persisted ever since i started on physio. I don't know when will it go.
I've tried all means to curb the pain with stretches, ointment and even painkillers. Didn't quite help.
I couldn't think of a better reason for the deterioration except for the long hours that i've been sitting down in my cube.
The workload couldn't allow me to stay away from the laptop for too long or rather, it's difficult to keep standing up every 45 minutes when i am already focusing on a piece of work.
I think i have complained too much on this pain previously that anymore of it, people might just think i'm whining.
I guess overtime, i try not to mention it so that i won't be reminded of it, even though the pain can be a bit unbearable sometimes.
The only incentive i pray is that i could go for more regular physio without having to go under the scrutiny of my boss.
Not very positive when she has already started to display displeasure for the half-day leave i took for a medical follow-up.
Pain management is already tough to cope and the only think i ask for is understanding, not even compassion. I've long given up the hope for compassion in this organization since six years ago.
Sigh.

I hate pain. It makes me depressed.
Whenever i'm in pain, i don't feel like doing anything. But if i don't, i'll feel useless and more miserable. And yet when i do it, i struggle.
Especially when i had to step aside to pop painkillers in the midst of activity, because if i don't, i can't last.
Joy, i've lost and the motivation to do most things.
Sigh.

I prayed, asking God to take away the pain, or at least help me to endure it better.

Pray no enough?

Rush Rush

09:40
Arrived in Office. Back pain.
Emailssssss.
Phone discussion.

10:00
Meeting #1

11:00
End of Meeting #1

11:10
Dashed to Bistro to get a cup of tea.

11:20
Meeting #2.

12:30
End of Meeting #2.

13:10
Headed to Bistro to pack lunch. Long queue.

13:45
Lunch done.
Emailsssss.
Sent Project to Boss for clearance.

14:45
Boss responded. Follow up required for Project
Hunt down the figures.

15:30
Went into Boss' room to discuss on Project.
Stammered. Unconfident. Gone. :(

16:00
Rushed to Physio.

16:20
Arrived at SGH for physio. Late.
Therapist exclaimed "AIYOH MISS CHONG!!!"
She said i looked vvv busy and blurted "NOW STILL GOT TOURISTS WANT TO COME MEH?"

18:00
Left SGH.
Headed to Liang Court Starbucks.
Emailsssss.

19:00
Dinner with 1B11 girls at Saizeraya @ LC.

22:00
Dinner done.
Home sweet home.


Can i stop rushing?

Crashing LNY

I can't believe that i disappeared from this space for a good four weeks!
Oh my, i wasn't even aware how did those days flew past.

The Lunar New Year breezed through without much traces, as though the original fifteen-days event was officially refused to four, those that were labeled as public holidays.
On the eve of LNY, i woke up, early enough to give my room a spring-clean and just the book shelve alone, it took me more than an hour.
Not mentioning the drawer chest, the wardrobe and the tv case which by the time i considered it done, three hours had past. Gosh...it was hard labour.
My only consolation was that it's only a once-a-year chore.
I had to get rid of the rubbish to make space for the new batch (of rubbish). My logic. Hah.
Reunion dinner commenced at around six in the evening but it was ruined before we could even tuck in.
As usual, Mum started off with her anger-threats and this time, it included canceling reunion next year and even the visitations the next day.
Shan't go into the details but i concluded it to be a family tragedy when insensible and insensitive creatures exist. Sigh.
I plonked myself in front of the computer after dinner, and unsurprisingly, most of my contacts were offline. But Beng's appearance a while later indeed came as a very pleasant surprise!
Eversince the uber brief farewell and eventually his departure on the last day of January, he seemed to have vanished from earth.
Hence the long (one sided) webcaming chat was good albeit the rush as he literally updated by the days. He also brought me around the house he was temporary putting up in and i didn't expect houses in Perth can be THAT small.
The bedroom can easily be one-third smaller than the bedroom of our three-room flat.
Detailing every aspects of his new way of living, the interactions with his multinational course mates, the uber high ego Aussie tutors, i see everything as an appeal to me.
Gosh...i shan't think too much into it.
He showed me the scones he baked for his assignment and geez...i'm so proud of him. =)

I had to go two hours later as Eric was already on his way to pick me for our annual LNY movie with the rest!
It was our third consecutive year of midnight movie on LNY eve and it has gradually become a tradition we all wish to keep.
To end off the night, we would always proceed for a drink at the prata shop along Bencoolen Street, gazing at the streams of vehicles turning out from the temples, with long thick joss sticks protruding out from their windows.
Considering that service was as per normal the following day, we had to keep the night short(er).
Arrived home at 2am and crashed immediately.

There wasn't a better way to start the LNY with a church service!
It was observed that on special days like this, the attendance could easily be halfed, but i thought this year was actually not that bad. Just a quarter lesser?
Packing up was record quick as everyone had a long day of activities awaiting.
With the aftermath from last night's saga, i deliberated for a while before dialing home and heaved a sigh of relief when Mum said the brothers were on their way and we were heading to Aunt's house. We didn't mention anything about the night before ever since.
I've never enjoyed LNY visitation but yet i think it's necessary. The once-a-year visits somehow become an indication that we are not losing touch. Even though we merely ate and watched television programs which are frequent not of our preference.
That was when iPhone became the best companion! Yes i know it's rude.
I can't stand people isolating themselves into the world of technology when there's obviously a group activity going on. Not even when one claims that he/she is listening.
But since i couldn't comment or participate in their "adult-talk", i guessed it was alright for me to just look up and nod occasionally. :p
After Aunt's place, we proceeded to visit Grandpa at a home.
It was quite sad that he couldn't spend his LNY at home and worse, bedridden.
Nevertheless, i was pretty sure he sensed our presence.
In less than five hours, we accomplished Visitations 2010 under the scorching heat and the killing sun.
Mum and i crashed immediately upon arriving home and got up just in time for dinner.

LNY day two, i met Jac for lunch at Marche and boy, i fell in love with this Swiss-Germany restaurant all over again.
I was devastated after its evacuation from the malls in town and with the only branch remaining in Vivocity, it's considered fortunate if you could beat the queue.
The new establishment at 313 @ Somerset occupies the first level and the first basement with the seating at the later. It's undoubtedly a tad claustrophobic with the low ceiling but the cosy country decor and the delicious spread of food make up to it. =)


After a hearty lunch, we headed to the cinema for Valentine's Day and we left the theatre feeling blissful. =) Strongly recommended, if it's still showing.
Dinner was with Jer and Sejin as they returned from Korea to spend LNY as husband and wife.

As Sejin had an air-stewardess friend who stopped over here for a night, she joined us for the night and while the two Korean ladies got engrossed with their girls talk, Jer and i were enjoying our Singlish chat as well.
Our night ended after browsing 700 pictures of their wedding and honeymoon.
I crashed immediately when i got home.


On the third day, i started off to Fen's place and then to Ps LY's.
LNY would never be completed without having a game (or more) of mahjong!!
Like cycling (or swimming for some), it's a skill that you'll never lose once mastered. You would only get better. =)
As the night gets older, i got more dampened by the post-holiday syndrome.
I wished i had taken leave for the rest of the week. Or maybe forever.
Oh wells.

The only thing that i looked forward on the first day back at work after a long weekend, was to end the day.
Seriously, i think i've lost my motivation totally. That's another story altogether.
Anyway, considering that i won't be seeing Jer for the rest of the year, i decided to send them off at the airport this time.
If i recalled correctly, the last time i did that was when he set off to Brisbane for his studies.
For that, i deserved to be suaned. =p
But i also realised that i really didn't like the feeling of seeing my friend, especially close ones, leaving before my eyes. The idea of parting is just too depressing.
I'm so gonna miss him. =(


Thankfully, i managed to convince him to join the iPhoners!
With the uber amazing whatsapp application, we can text each other for free, anytime anywhere, and best, we can even send pictures and mark our locations instantly!
Just that i would never know where is he only if i read Korean.

Since LNY started, the sun gets more generous each day.
A temperature of 35 degree celsius is totally unbearable and i wished i carry a portable air-condition everywhere i go.
Even though so, i blast a fan AND my air con every night before i could fall asleep. No kidding!
It was reported that February was the driest month in 140 years, since 1869 and the heat will last till May.
That is it! I'm migrating.

下一站，幸福。。。花拓也篇

我为他流泪。
也为他心碎。

我以為我的溫柔　能給妳整個宇宙　
我以為我能全力　填滿妳感情的缺口
專心陪在妳左右　彌補他一切的錯　
也許我太過天真　以為奇蹟會發生

Simple Pleasures

It's been a long time since i SCREAMED TGIF.
I've not been so looking forward to the weekend like i do now. Sigh...the reason is clear.
I concluded that i have a love-hate relationship with my work (it used to be just "love").
Currently at the "hate" phase and i think it'll last for quite a while. Until the equilibrium can be balanced by some other factors.
Albeit the depressing time in office, i managed to find some perks which neutralized my state of mind a little. =)

On Wednesday, i took the afternoon off for my annual follow-up at KKH. Oh my, it has been a year! Another hurdle to leap. *gulp*
I was scheduled to do a blood test which required me to fast from midnight the day before. By the time i arrived at the hospital, it was already fourteen hours without food. I could almost whack anyone who came in my way when i was dragging myself to Delifrance after the test, with the little energy i was left with. A hungry man is an angry man.
After gobbling down a crab mayo croissant meal in 15 minutes, i made my way to the Diagnostic Imaging (DI) centre for my ultrasound. Satisfied. Full bladder (neccessary for visibility at the pelvis area). Perfect.
I left the centre 20 minutes later. How efficient was that. =)
The visits to KKH have always been very pleasant and i credit to their helpful and loving nurses who are like mothers to me. I also realised that Dr Chia won the "Service from the Heart" award from one of the posters on the wall. She's indeed a gem!
The overall atmosphere of the place is also warmer, with the blissful mothers or mother-to-bes and the newborns and toddlers. Definitely less suffocating than other government hospitals packed with grouchy elderly and their entourage of companions.
Thank God for Dr Wong from the clinic where i got my referral seven years ago. =)

I left the hospital, smiling, and bused to Katong Shopping Centre as i was meeting Anthea for karaoke.
I knew i was going to be early, thus i've arranged for dessert with Koko. I sure know how to make good use of my time. Hah.
It was already 6pm when Anthea and i arrived at Teo Heng KTV, which we have been hearing so much about. The room we were allocated was small and smelly but i was immediately thrilled by the touch-screen song reservation system. Think iphone. Wow.
We had a great time and it was such a privilege to sing with the champion of Brighton Cup Singing Competition alright! (It took place just last Sunday and Anthea emerged at the winner after beating 70 contestants!)
Ended the evening with supper at Old Hong Kong Tea House at Katong Village, enjoying Anthea's stories of TV production. Happy. =)

Thursday, it was movie date with Wilson, my traveling and movie buddy he said.
Since it was his birthday the day before, it was my treat at ichiban boshi @ PP.
Ever since its refurbishment, i've always wanted to go but unfortunately my ex-PP buddy hates ichiban. Who would hate ichiban?? Oh well.
Movie was at Kallang Leisure Park, as we wanted to stay away from the crowd. But for sure we were not expecting to have the entire theatre to ourselves! Wil had to emphasize that he didn't book a private screening. Haha.
Just as we started to feel uneasy, three couples started to stream in consecutively. Phew.
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus is a fantastical morality tale, set in the present-day. It tells the story of Dr. Parnassus and his extraordinary ‘Imaginarium’, a travelling show where members of the audience get an irresistible opportunity to choose between light and joy or darkness and gloom.
Ok i lifted that synopsis online coz after the show, my first statement to Wil was "what exactly is this show about?".
Seriously not my cup of tea. But definitely more bearable than New York I Love You.
By the time i reached home, it was already past midnight and i was dead beat. Happy. =)

Simple pleasures of a hectic work life.

再见了

今天受委屈了。
很自然的，就打开msn想找你发牢骚。才浑然察觉，你已不在。
说真的，还没习惯没有你的日子。或许我真得太依赖你了。
以往不管受了多少气，重在你的诙谐下，一切都能化解。
现在的我，累计在心里闷气，只能让时间去化解。
憋得很辛苦。尤其还得强颜欢笑的故作大方，故作坚强。

你还好吗？
你的离去，也为这段机缘巧合建立起的感情，画下了句点。
我们再也无须为彼此的期望而承受任何压力。
也该是时候释怀了。
短暂的两年，发展得快，结束的也快。
但我从没后悔，也打从心底感谢你在这些日子带给我的欢乐时光。

短期内应该会很难适应。
可是打着独立新女性头衔的我，会再次独领风骚。
我会过得很好。
你也要。。。。

祝。。。幸福快乐。

遗憾

遗憾。。。让我爱上了方炯鑌



遗憾。。。让我觉得更遗憾。。。咳