Polka-torttie

Say hello to the polka-dotted tortise from Osaka. My sis is on holiday and sent me this picture. So cute hor? I think tortises have smiley faces. Smile back!

Rigged: The true story of a wall street novice who changed the world of oil forever

I'm currently reading this book. I think i'm liking the style of writing this author adopts and has been keeping me hooked from when i settle in bed with it, till the time i fall asleep. Very exciting. When i'm done, then i'll tell u more. =)

30 Aug 08: I've finished this book already. it's not as good as 21. not even close really. but overall, quite informative. It's not unreadable. It's still a rather easy read, just that it might not keep u on edge. =)

21: Bringing down the house

Since i'm a library junkie, authors don't really get to earn royalties from me. As a way of giving back, i shall tell u about this book i've read. it's called 21: Bringing down the house. It's about 6 MIT undergrads who worked out a system to win a lot of money at the casinos. This is a true story, which makes it all the more a good read. The plot is fast paced and exciting. Honestly, i believe it'll make the normal person want to try his hand at Blackjack after reading the book, as the basics of the "system" described is actually quite simple and logical. The best part? it's legal and works. It's not cheating. However, expect to be kicked out cos when u go to casinos, u're not supposed to win.

Anyways, if u are a speedy plot lover like me, read this book! And also watch the movie when it's out.

Predictions

I know i've said this before. And my view hasn't changed.

Based on my predictions (totally originating from me, if someone else says the same thing, i defintely don't know about it), Singapore will experience recession during September 2010, plus minus 3 months (i.e. June to December 2010).

So, hold ur horses and money, and prepare to buy a lot of things then. hahahaha. (also can give me a treat)

=)

Auditors versus accountants

There are a few things auditors and accountants would agree on.
They include: -
- accountancy-trained people have a poor image among members of the public (boring, rigid, poor communicators, just to name a few)
- for the amount of manual labour performed, the pay is actually very low.

I'm attending my CPA pre-admission course. Upon passing this course, and with a testimonial from my employer stating my 3-year experience, i will become a non-practising certified accountant. Not very exciting, i know. But can la. heh.

Unexpectedly, we had a discussion in class today. And it struck me how much accountants (we call them people in "commercial" firms) dislike auditors (typically from "professional" firms). This is a general comment, i know there are exceptions. And the reasons are not invalid. They include: -
- auditors who come on-site to perform audit procedures typically comprise fresh graduates with no commercial/ operational experience, and they are expected to "audit" the company;
- more experienced seniors may not necessarily have gained more experience simply by more years of service in the professional firm. They are known to be booksmart, eager to apply standards without displaying an understanding of the business needs;
- managers who typically know more are not present at field audits;
- everytime there's a change of staff on the audit team, the 'new' member comes along asking the same questions. And this happens very often.

So, to add to the misery of earning not so much, auditors are under-appreciated, even hated.

I'm not ruling out the possibility of commercial people being envious of the people in professional firms, who have annual promotions and can look forward to becoming managers by their 5th or 6th year of service. When u (accountants) think u know more about a company, but auditors are those with an almost iron rice bowl (albeit small one) and receiving the promotions and bonuses in a timely manner, i think it's not impossible to believe that accountants might feel a bit of sour grapes. But i'm not entirely sure of course. Afterall, some commercial firms pay very well.

I don't think this problem can be solved. Auditors as a profession, in my most humble opinion, should be eliminated or taken under the arm of the government (something like IRAS tax audits, only it's the accounting one), perhaps a section of SGX. So that those in professional firms who decide to perform "audits" may do it from a consulting, performance improvement angle and seek to add value to the client's business, and not merely to police them. And those really doing the audit for say SGX (in my imagination) don't have to be graduates. They just need a technical understanding of the processes and simple accounting standards. (See, more jobs for those who choose not to study so much!) Afterall, standards may always be referred to. And when that fails, there's always "prior year" to follow.

This way, accountants and "auditor-consultants" (in my imaginary world, again) will have aligned goals, like improving efficiency, tightening controls, improving business, costing for better profits, etc. And hopefully, the accounts department will also become a more valued part of any profit-driven organisation.

Monday morning melodies

I'm supposed to be at home, snoozing away. but my manager wanted me back. so here i am, with nothing really much to do. i don't have an email full of instructions or anything. In fact, i thought it was good that i come back just to clear the mail box or something. but then, it's not full at all! hahah.

The previous week has been absolute bliss. i don't remember doing much besides walking my dog, going for classes (i'm attending this course now) and walking my dog. In fact, i walked so much last week, today, i asked my dad to send me all the way to the office.

On Friday night, i slept at 730pm and work up at 6am. On Saturday evening, i slept at 630pm and work up at 9am. Get the pattern? Last night i slept at 10pm. So late hor? haha. I think it's been a while since i've gone to school and the learning is just so taxing on my brain. Plus the walking. But it really feels very good. Beats any spa. Try it.

When my dad came back, i asked him if Chippy lost weight (cos i walked him quite a bit this week). and he was like "no la!" hahaha. i also know the answer. But thought it was funny to ask. Oh oh, i also went shopping yesterday. Not deliberately though. My sister and i were bringing a Filippino friend around, and we passed a bazaar sale at Suntec. Not too bad. Not that great either.

Ok, i should get back to work, though i have no idea wat's there to do yet. But perhaps i'l read my course notes. whooppeee. i love Mondays.

Did u know?

That in the Bible, it is written that a righteous man "regards the life of his animal"? i've always thought that Chippy had a place in heaven and i think it's confirmed now!

Well, not really. But you know, there's this thing about people who like animals? or for that matter, don't dislike them? They are usually the people who come across to be a little warmer and a little more able to empathise. No, not that people who don't are bad. Not at all. I'm not out to categorise people. (really!). Just that it further reminds me that my big big God takes into account these small small things. How much more me. =)

In case you're wondering, it's Proverbs 12:10.

Originality no enough

This movie is not worth watching. Please keep the cash in your pocket. The jokes are overused: mainly about the government always collecting money, numerous ERP gantries, how people go out of their way to want to win lottery, collect freebies, etc. Then, the moral of the story is that true wealth is your family and things that money cannot buy.

Some people (other reviews) say it really hit home and reflects the Singapore thinking. I want to vomit at that suggestion. If that's the case, i'm really not typical (but i knew that already). But this storyline is far-fetched without being funny, relying on unoriginal typecasts and non-new jokes. The acting was also not good, with everyone being one-dimensional. It's really sad.

Some computer graphics were employed for the movie and the audience was shown a bit of the process, such as drawings without colour and then how it turns out, and how they simulated certain parts of the movie, such as a lot a lot of people (i'm careful not to spoil the story for you) when they are not that many. But please don't watch the show for this. It's really a waste.

hello hello

I thought i had the time to blog like mad over the weekend, but in the end, it was taken up by a grueling dance practice and NDP TV session and 2 birthday parties. But i'm one happy person. I went shopping again and bought a top! whooppeee. i love shopping. everyone should shop.

If u look really closely, u'd see my brother standing among other soldiers, in the letter "N". i'm how proud of him. coolness. This year's NDP is cool. Celebrating the Singapore spirit. =)

First

I'm as sleepy as a polar bear. I have no idea why a polar bear. But i'm very sleepy. and polar bears look sleepy. Today is the 1st of August, and being the 1st, i thought it's a good chance for me to put down a new resolution. I have decided to quit coffee (yea, right). I know! It's damn difficult. the aroma, the thickness of the liquid. Like melted chocolate. every morning i have it and though it doesn't really keep me awake, i love the taste of it. hmmmm....sometimes when i'm on leave or it's the weekend, i'll miss my dose of coffee and look forward to coming to work again. Yes, i'm mad. But i know this already.

Today is really not a good day to start my non-coffee plan also becos we went to sing Karaoke last night and we sung our lungs out and deserve a good rest. I came to work feeling like a zombie. The table mate is not here today cos she possessed the wisdom to take leave today.

I will be meeting my sis for lunch in a bit. I'm not hungry. Just sleepy. bah. my eyelids weigh a thousand tonnes.

lunch munch

Today i lunched in. Cos i had a medical appointment in the AM and have to make up for it. Lunch made me very happy because it's made up of my favourites. Teh gao siew dai and liang li ji dan. hahahah.


C, if u are seeing this from London, say "yummmmm".

it's getting late

and i'm still in the office. we just ordered dinner. i'm not feeling overworked. i'm feeling overwhelmed by the learning, the nurturing and the amount of issues which i have to grapple with. Never before in my brief career life have i felt this sense of heightened awareness. Of course, learning comes with dealing with everyday things but this! Still, i don't think i can deal with this level of work on a regular basis. But so far, so good!

Thank You Dad. Because of you, i've got it all covered. Cos You have.

to run the race

since the time i started working, i've never had to work late. I mean, occasionally work till 9 plus 10 is normal. But it's really occasionally, like once in my first year. None in my second year. Although i came back to work on 2 weekends in my second year. Considering i can count reliably the times where i really work late, i think my career has so far been very blessed.

But nowadays, i really work much later. And a lot of times, it's out of my control. Though i really really enjoy the discussions, the work, the people, i'm feeling very sleepy todayyyyyyyyyyy!!!

i think i haven't recovered from the sleep debt i accumulated from my sister's wedding weekend. i need to sleep. hahahha.


bah bah bah. pardon the nonsense. i'm just sleeepyyy.

Deferred tax

I love accounting! I love deferred tax and the philosophies, calculations, theories surrounding it. hugs.

ok, i'm mad.

today

9 July 2008 is a nice date isn't it? i was just looking at the little calender on my desktop and thinking that. Although it's not in some kind of pattern like 7 July or 8 August 2008, that kinda thing. But dunno, maybe it's a personal thing.

Today's a good day.

post-sister's wedding

It's over. and it was super fun, although super tiring. And i don't believe i went around in high heels, running around for 2 straight days. It's official, everyone should get married at Hyatt. Well, i admit i haven't organised a wedding at another hotel, but the service the couple and guests received was impeccable. And everyone loved the food. I'm very tired, but i'm in office because i'm on course. Such a drag cos i'm so sleepy. Hopefully things pick up later. There's more of wedding stuff later cos we're all going to their new place to play Wii. haha. sounds very important doesn't it?? well, it's part of the "third day hui niang jia" thing.

i was telling my Dad this morning that if anything, it was the love of the people that was really touching. And it's such a privilege to be loved by so many, so much. Thank God.

things to do before your sister's wedding

1. get a pedicure.
2. take out the dresses i'm supposed to wear and ensure they are not wrinkled.
3. un-hair myself.
4. bring out the shoes.
5. prepare spare comfortable shoes such as flip flops.
6. ensure mobile phone is fully charged.
7. Have ample tissue paper.
8. revise the time-table for tomorrow.
9. chill.
10. pack my room (oh my, again!)

I want to watch this

This is a screen shot from one of the scenes in New York I Love You, a movie which will premiere in 2009. And i really want to watch it!!!! arghhhhh..... lately there haven't been many good movies. very disappointing indeed.

mr happy

a new year a new beginning

for those of us who hail from the Big Four professional firms, July marks a new year. And for me, a new beginning, since i start work in a new department. Well, it's still tax, just a different specialisation. And as much as i'm excited, i'm nervous. Worrisome i am. But i have a good feeling in my tummy. Much because it started with many good friends, good people whom i've been meeting. And the opportunities. and the hope. Well, there's no end.

I continue to pray for wisdom, gentleness, and a lot of faith and trust. I know You can. And You will.



*cherri jumps in the air and shouts hurrah!

Wedding preview

We just had my sister's wedding rehearsal yesterday. It was really fun. I got to practise walking down the aisle, which is a lot more stressful than i expected. The page boy was so nervous he chickened out. We need to coax him a lot more, it seems.

I'll be wearing a dress something like the one above. I can't find the picture of the dress i actually bought. heh. So exciting.

(don't) Get Smart

It was a disappointment. The jokes are slapstick. Kids might like the show though, for the action. Other than that, look out for Anne Hathaway's Chanel get-up. I laughed during the movie, but overall, it wasn't worth my eight bucks. bah.

online shopping

with the recent breakdown of Yahoo auctions, i've been left stranded with no cool shopping / selling site. So i tried to search for other means to continue my online junkstore. To no avail. U mite want to recommend me to ebay. but for some reason, i don't like it so much. Not yet at least. Anyways, while i haven't found a selling solution, i found other shopping sites.

This blogger gave a summary of various Singapore online shopping sites/blogs. Check it out here: http://www.manic.com.sg/blog/archives/000264.php

I haven't finished exploring. When i have, perhaps i'll expand my iShopping links. i need to shop shop shop.

Something old, something gold

I've been wanting a gold watch for some time now. And this is my latest purchase. Well, as u can see, it's not brand new. Yep, but i like it for the vintage flavour. I brought it to the watch shop for the uncle to take a look and he really liked it. Yea, i know it's not affirmation for my taste, but it's kinda funny to see the old guy take such an interest. Anyways, i have a gold watch and i have a silver watch (2 actually). I think i'm set for life.

Lipstick jungle

is very good! catch it if u can. I'm just on the 1st episode. but it's good. it's like Sex and the City, only more up to date. Like they have handphones and stuff...and they actually have real jobs. ha.

Cashmere mafia

is boring.

Milk it

My parents are not around so my sister and i went to Sheng Siong yesterday to buy milk. Well, it was a tough time comparing prices. it's like this, for consumables like this, my family is not picky about the taste unless it's really v bad. So we went on the mission to find the cheapest one. And boy, many brands have increased prices and so we targetted the ones who are a little slower in reacting to the recent inflationary pressures. And it happens to be Meiji! (but only applicable if u buy the 2L bottle)

But it was fun. and milk is good for us. Ever since i started to drink milk more often, i shit everyday. and it makes me feel v healthy. i believe it's cos i'm a little lactose intolerant. haha. whatever the case, it's good for my growing bones. yay.

Latest purchase

This came in the mail yesterday. I've been waiting for weeks. whoo hoo. I'm an Audrey fan. =)

Bridal shower

A bunch of my sisters' friends and i organised her bridal shower. It was so funny. We laughed and laughed so much. It's amazing to have such good friends who are with u at every stage. And these friends of hers have really seen her through the ages man. Sometimes i feel it may be easy to find someone to hear your problems out and to console u. But it may be tough to find people who rejoice with u when things are great. Like celebrating the fact that u're getting married. It's not just attending ur dinner and wrapping u a generous ang pow, but to feel "yay, u've found true love!", kinda thing. haha.

Anyways, i organised an exotic dance class for my sister and friends. And if u think of teaching exotic dance moves at a hen party, u got the idea from me. haha. I thought strippers were passe (i'm so cool hor). Today my sister was complaining that she's aching from the dancing. Can u believe it?? haha. I'm just glad everything went well. It really helps that all her friends are so spontaneous and responsible.

Now back to work and i'm feeling so fatigued, as if i had a damn tough workout. i think i should get my coffee man. To think i was thinking of quitting. What was i thinking??!! and starting on a Monday. I'm such a joke. Ok dearies, back to work. I love work. I love work.

The firm gave us free tickets to go watch Prince Caspian together. If not for the free tickets, i don't think i would have gone for the show. For a few reasons really. I've never been a fan of fantasy, although i have huge respect for CS Lewis. Also, i didn't watch the first episode. In preparation of the show, i even did some reading about it, just so i won't be lost. The reviews were not too kind to the movie, stating it to be lacklustre compared to its predecessor, and saying that it has fallen below expectations. But oddly, i liked it! It left me with a warm fuzzy feeling, like i'm always protected. Like my Lion will always have the solution and that calm, deep voice that will say "Trust me". Wow. Nice. Go watch it. But make sure your bladder can take it and also you're not too sleepy to begin. Some parts are rather challenging for the eyelids.

The cutest dog in the world is mine

Sex

Last night i finally watched the movie. And i really liked it. For the people who haven't watched SATC Seasons 1 to 6, well, i think it's good because it's as good as the TV series. And i didn't expect it to be. There were many funny moments. I feel that they were rather deliberate, something the producers didn't hv to do for the TV series. But judging from the laughter i heard in the cinema, those were pretty well received.

I prefer the touching moments. And the one that really moved me was when Carrie ran all the way to Miranda's place and hugged her and said "you're not alone". At that point, i was really touched. That's what friends are for.

Preparing for my sister's wedding really put me in the mood for the movie. And for a while, i thought that the whole show was going to revolve around the wedding/or not, well, it did, but there were other themes too la. Busying myself with my sister's bridal shower(s) made me realise something very deeply: that friends are important. You know, girlfriends who stick by you, who know you and love you and rejoice with you when u get married. Who know you are making a bad decision and dare to tell u. If you don't know what i'm talking about, watch the movie.

I loved the show. I went to sleep having a good feeling in my tummy. i even messaged my best friends to tell them i love them. Yes, i'm mad. But i knew that already. Go watch SATC. then go rent the series. They are all very good.

Oh oh, i forgot, the other thing which i like about the show and also about Devil Wears Prada is that there were many scenes of New York City, which i'm a fan of. There was this view, albeit fleeting, of Central Park from the Penthouse, which made me stop breathing for about a quarter of a second. Very nice. Hmmmm... warm feeling all over. hee. Watch the movie, watch the series then go to NYC again. Yea, in that order.

Death and goodbyes

Recently i've been spending my time watching Six Feet Under. It's an american TV series about death. Well, actually, to be more precise, it follows this family who runs the undertaker business. Every episode begins with a death and the story continues. It has been produced for a long time but never shown in Singapore because of the nude and homosexual scenes. I'm still early in the show, so the verdict isn't out.

My friend's grandpa passed away on Sat. And though i'm not all that close to her, i made it a point to drop by the funeral wake. I just felt that that was the least i could do. We had pretty good conversations. Contrary to the mood, we had some pretty good laughs. I guess it really helps when we know that death is not the end. But simply the start of another life.

I couldn't help but think of my grandma. And how i missed her funeral. And how much i miss her. But it was also through that experience that helped me to realise that funerals are an important thing. It allows people to show grief openly and to express their feelings for their loved one. Also, it is a gathering of people who are related and who feel love for the same person. There's always comfort in knowing another person is feeling the same way, or can better understand how u might be feeling at that moment.

That was my weekend for me. I mean, that was the highlight. Other than that, it was the distribution of my sister's wedding invites, a formal and traditional process for some. Or a sheer necessity for others. In any case, it was something that had to be done. And it was done with much laughing and much smiling.

It was a busy weekend. And i'm actually glad to be back at work.

Permissions

For about a few days, i attempted to limit my blog to only people i know to read it. Cos i had the intention of making it a little more personal and less guarded. However, the sheer task of adding people become a chore so i decided to allow it again. heh. I know a few of my overseas frens drop in once in a while just to get an update. and i feel it's a duty to continue. Even though i'm really not the most trendy in town. Who knows, maybe when i'm feeling really bored i can take pictures of the changes taking place down at Orchard Road so they won't be so shocked when they return. All u adventurous people overseas, please know that i miss u much. Come home.

Today my mumsy returned from a holiday in Beijing. And she was filled with excitement because she really loved the scenery she saw and the shopping and the time spent with her sisters. Which is so great. She bought me a string of pearls and one of my aunties gave me a pair of Bally shoes. I couldn't believe it. I was half expecting it to be some really past season, obiang kind of Bally shoes. But no! it's a pair of pointy leather heels the way i like them. Except that the Bally quality is amazing! They have the most comfortable leather and it has this gold buckle like thing as its design. The shoe is of the appropriate height, comfort and everything. Amazing.

This week has been a tiring week. I was on a mission to finish a bunch of things in preparation of taking a few more days of leave to unwind, exercise more and prepare for my sister's wedding. And i do feel rather accomplished. Due to the blocked nose i was nursing, i could only go to fitness today. And boy, i feel so so good now. The flexibility, strength and warmth i feel is unbeatable. Really. Everyone, join fitness! haha.

In these last few months, i also watched Chuck and Dexter. Very good stuff. I'm lending them to A to watch cos he's going on leave. Everyone should get them and watch them. Don't wait for Channel 5. It's never going to happen man. haha. Next, i'm going on to Cashmere Mafia and Gossip Girl, lalalalalla. life is great.

Ok, this is officially blogging vomit since i haven't blogged in a while. I'm damn happy la. everyone join in and say whoo hoo!

Taste(less) Paradise

My taste buds have lost all ability. I can't seem to taste anything and it's bothering me cos i'm actually feeling rather hungry but i'll never be satisfied cos i can't taste anything. And it's been like this since this morning. I've barely eaten today, save for a cup of coffee (tastes like thick water) and 2 slices of bread (which taste like mush, after my saliva have softened it). I'm so unhappy. I had a few bites of pineapple after i came home. And they just taste cold and when u chew, water comes out of the flesh. Boring.

I hope it won't be like this tomorrow. i'v taken medication for blocked nose, and i'm already dreaming of breakfast tomorrow. Sad life, u might think. I'm hungry. Ok, i'm going to distract myself by watching Dexter.

Part one of my sister's bridal shower happened on Monday. And what good laughs we had over the presents everyone bought. It's really touching to see how many people love my sis so much.

Part two is coming up and i've every intention to make it absolutely unforgettable. haha. These are the priceless things anyways right.

Oh, tell u something unrelated. Last night, my dog was snoring so loudly that he woke me up. I had to tell him to be quiet before i could fall back to sleep. So funny. Like my dad. Cos that's exactly what happened during our Turkey trip. Like father like dog. hahahahahhaa. i'm so funny.

ok, gotta sleep.

When u don't know what to say

Just tell me. Everything's going to be ok.

I'm a sucker like that.




I love this phrase so much i think i'm going to print a tee shirt.

And it's true. Everything's gonna be ok.

recognise that everyday won't be sunny
and when u find urself lost in the darkness of despair
remember it's only in the black of night
you see the stars
and those stars will lead u back home

so don't be afraid to make mistakes
stumble, fall
cos most of the time
the greatest rewards come from doing the things
that scare you the most

maybe u won't get everything u wish for
maybe u'll get more than you ever could have imagined.


-Coach Whitey, One Tree Hill Season 3 Ep 15.

I'm starting to get the feeling that things are working out again. A bit closer to reality now. Thanks Dad. Ya the best. really.

U know why it's really cool to be a footballer with the Dillon Panthers? Because everytime u have a game, your family is there to support you. The girl who likes you is looking out for u. When u lose, the whole town sympathises with u (as long as u don't do it so often), when u win, the whole town congratulates u.

It's really amazing. And that's wat makes the whole thing really nice. Anyway, it's not fun to win and be alone.

Want list

Just another day

I've been wanting to post something for a while. Just never got down to it. Perhaps when i post less stuff, i'm generally in a less reflective mood. heh. Anyways, things are just about the same. I'm still the odd person who loves work, loves my dog, etc.

Today is the JP Morgan race. Please pray i run well. cos i haven't been at it in a while. I just don't want to embarrass myself. haha. D says her boyfriend M is filming the event so i'm not supposed to wave. I really better not. Or i have to bribe him to cut it out. But well, there's gonna be like 10000 people running?

Work's busy. Church's busy too. Last night Chip was how funny. I saw him lying and sleeping and decided to disturb him. So i lay next to him on the floor and kissed his head. He opened one eyelid halfway, saw that it was me and closed it again. My dog has learnt to ignore me. Can u believe that?

Yesterday i also found out his birth month cos my dad took out his documents cos it's time to pay his license fee. He was born in May 2002. So come May, he turns 6! My mum says that's like 60 years old. I really don't believe that. My dog will forever be a teenager. Like me. hahahahhahahah.

Ok, i have to get back to work.

they played in the garden and the dog jumped up and attacked one of the numerous pigeons which belonged to the neighbour.
the pigeon was injured but did not die.
the neighbour was angry and threatened to shoot the dog should it happen again.

it frightened the children because how the dog behaved wasn't entirely under their control. and they were scared for their dog.

the next day around the same time, mummy went to the garden. knowing that their neighbour would be tending to his numerous pigeons.
she took up her gun. aimed and shot. she then reloaded and did it again.

no one frightens her children.


-from Mad Men. Season 1.

Tuesday is just like any other work day. And i have a pile to clear. Someone sent me a bouquet and i have to go get it from the mail room.

I hold the flowers in my hand, barely grasping due to the thickness of the bunch. White lilies. When i was a kid, i'd think to myself that the man of my dreams would present me with a bunch of white lilies and I'll be very touched. U know, that kinda mini daydreams.

Sunday was my birthday. And i took Monday off to relax, do something for myself. And I was expecting the "special-ness" of the day to have worn off by Tuesday. But as i held the lilies, yea, i have to say, that makes me feel kinda special.

I hurried back to my seat in the office, abashed at the pretty bunch that was catching a lot of attention. The first thing i did was to put it where i can see it, yet not be so obvious that everyone would ask me about it. Then i opened the card. It said this: "Cheryl dearest, you're deeply loved".

I beam to myself and left the card open on my desk. So that i can glance over now and then and repeat the whole 'smile-to-myself' thing. Suddenly the day felt a bit lighter. I didn't become smarter i'm sure but the work seemed more manageable. Probably because it didn't seem to matter so much if i failed or something. I am loved, you see.

Then i thought about You. And how You said that when i comprehend the breadth and length and height and depth of Your love, I am more than a conquerer. Today i received flowers from a few very dear friends and i felt on top of things. Like i can handle it all. Everyday i receive Your love. Grace that renders me perfect. Love that makes You want to give me the world. Love that makes You ache when i hurt.

Today i caught a fraction of a glimpse of that Love. While it's still beyond my simple understanding, it gave me a taste of that sustenance. No wonder You say i'm more than a conquerer. The careless grin i can wear and the confidence that i can feel. Perhaps should i know better, my face would crack from the smiling and my head dizzy from the mere idea. Of Your Love for me.

My day

Today's sermon was awesome awesome stuff. the worship was awesome awesome too. I think i'm starting to get the hang of things.

i'l let on the details later. i'm SO tired.

M called from Switzerland today. Just to check in. I'm inspired by her courage and strength. Going so far away to study. even thinking about finding work there.

before hanging up, i told her to keep warm. And she told me it has just started to snow. then she told me about flowers. i ask her u mean there are flowers in winter? she says yes. and that's how nature is inspiring.

and it's at that precise moment i know it's God. telling me in sunny Singapore about His creation over in Switzerland. it's winter,


Flowers in winter. what a pretty sight.

i have everything when i have you.

Random thoughts

this is wat happens when my laptop is on and i have a sudden burst of thoughts. it's lke fireworks going off in my head. usually triggered by recent events.

1. my cousins are damn great. every CNY is made so damn fun cos everyone's so cool to hang with. Once again, we went crazy with Taboo and killed the microphones at PartyWorld by slaughtering many songs.

2. House is DAMN GOOD. there are the moments of "omigosh, damn good damn good". yea.

3. CNY is officially my favourite holiday.

Don't hang out with poisonous people. Just because they feel bad about themselves doesn't mean u have to too. =)

CNY!

U know the economy is doing well by the ang pow rates. 2008, the year of abundance!

Lime Flea Mart

Hey, i applied for a stall, not thinking i'd get it. but i did. So i think i'd go ahead. Once again, please gimme ur junk. it's happening on 23 February 2008. alternatively, simply come and hang with me. =)

blog counter

hey. just in case u wanna install a free counter for ur blog. but its the no-frills type. it doesn't tell u anything other than number of hits. =)



*mouse over this blog entry's title and u have the link.

[edit: everytime i edit something or change something to my blog and view it, it's like 2 or 3 hits. now my blog seems real popular yo.]

Lasik Masik Wasik

I'm going for Lasik. i mean, i'm going for the assessment. So pray that i'm a good candidate for it ok. cos i long the day i can wake up and be able to see the things ard me. hahahah.

in the meantime, i have to bear with wearing specs. Which really sucks. pray pray pray.

Freeeebeeeeeeeee

Yesterday i was on my way to the gym (or so i thought), then i felt my shoulders being achey. So i took out a free spa voucher in my diary, dialled the number and asked if there was a slot. like now. And there was! So here i am, massaged. haha.

If u noticed some changes to my blog, it's cos i'm freakin free at work. it's bad but i have no work to do. And my boss knows that and is fine with it too. hahaha. nice or not my blog?

Ok, i'm going back to my netsurfing. it's a tough life.

Privileges

"God watches our coming in and going out. That means that we just do what we're supposed to do. And somehow, whatever we do, things will work out. This comes with being the child of God. There's no need to do anything special."

2007 - a backwards glimpse

You know how it's often said that we shouldn't look back and look forward? Well, i suppose that's because the natural thing is to look backwards, at what we're pretty sure did happen, as opposed to wondering what lies ahead. But i've a few thankgiving items just before i move on. heh

Thank God for -

1. my trips overseas, despite me not having planned for them: Turkey, Shanghai, Korat, Africa (Leeds and Paris).

2. my new work experience. it really helped me gain a fresh perspective. on work, on myself, on people and on work.

3. my dancing (which i like to call lancing)

4. passing my choir auditions. hahahhahaha.

5. good people (not limited to 2007)

6. family who are great.

7. something to look forward to.

(i'm sure there's more. i just don't remember them now)

4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

-Phil 4: 4--9

25And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? 26If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest? 27Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 28But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! 29And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. 30For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. 31Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you.
32 "Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

-Luke 12: 25--32

Just came back from S' place. it was awesome. It was supposed to be a normal gathering. But she cooked a storm! Above is a shepherd's pie she made. I quickly took a pic before everyone dug in.

This year, i will attend one dance class a week. At least. yippeee.







Teach me to dance to the beat of Your heart

Scrubs

I have a whole load of TV series which i keep as prized possessions. i don't lend them to pple usually, for fear that i'd not have them should i suddenly feel like watching. But i recently found this awesome awesome website that lets me watch almost anything i want. My goodness! it's awesome. i've started on Scrubs. And it's good! it's v funny.

Happy New Year to you all. 2008. nicely. =)

My blog is 2 years old. Cool huh.

2008

is the year of answered prayers
is the year of manifested blessings
is the year of abundance

P

are u back?

If you care about what people think of you

hang out with good people.

i'm trying v hard to clear my room, my perennial "to do" item. heh.

this is my 2nd day of leave. and while i did nothing, it's already more productive than yesterday. Yesterday i woke up at 330pm only because my Dad woke me up. Then i went to the polyclinic and then had a gathering at night.

I still have one more important Christmas party to attend. It's called the after Christmas Christmas party. I'm just waiting for u to be back, R.

2008 is going to be good. And i intend to celebrate my birthday. So keep that weekend free. Yes, i've already started planning. It's going to be better than my 21st, which i thought was a pretty good one. =)

The theme is the same: Red Roses and Candlelight. Yep. most prob on 8 March 07. KEEP IT FREE. heh.


ok, back to my room. SIGH.

My sis had a surprise for me today. She got me my Christmas present. She asked me to close my eyes and to hold my hands out in front of me. And she placed that little darling in my hands.



It's not the latest thing or anything. It's just something i've always wanted but never purchased. cos i always managed to find a camera to use. I have a Sony which i really love but lately it's been acting up. My sis has a Panasonic that's damn zai. So i have been using what's available.



But now i have my own. Meet Pinky. The Sony T10. Well, T20 and T100 are already out. But it's the T10 that i first set my eyes on. And i'm happy. v v happy. And it's pink.








And seriously, i think for taking pictures like this, Sony is the best. really. loves it.

Public holiday

there's something divine about being able to be home while the sunlight is streaming in. better yet, the whole family is home! which is rare, since my parents travel often, my sis overworks and my brother is in the army. so yep, this is a rare day.

So we planned to have breakfast. And it's 11.15am and no one is moving. Everyone is simply feeling nice, content to be in our own holes. i'm blogging and wrapping presents and listening to Corrinne. I need to buy a fan. this "save the world" thing is getting to me so i'm thinking of cutting down on aircon. And using reusable bags. Especially since the mountain of plastic bags is growing.

things to look forward:

1. my hair is longer. i know this sounds v stupid considering i see my hair everyday. but lately, i've been thinking "hey, i've got long hair". crap rite? but i'm thinking of treating myself to a good haircut at Shunji in March 2008. i know it's a bit early to plan. but i want him to have lots to work with. ok, i'm mad.

2. learning how to play mahjong. S, my new music guru has agreed to impart his marhjong skills to K, R and me. hah. 4 people. most ideal.

3. P is coming back from her UK extravaganza soon. and i miss her so so much.

4. my good friend from RGS is getting married in January. =)

that's all i can think of for now. thank You God. for things to look forward to. for friends who hold my hand and for good people who remind me the important things. And for You. the eternal goodness and abundance You promised, starting yesterday.


I'm deeply loved, highly favoured and greatly blessed. =)

Nip/Tuck

Amazing, intense shit. Compared to my usual poison of Gilmore, OC, SATC. love it.

some of the episodes are so good, so poignant. Some overly-drama. But some really kicks u. and yep. most of the time, it just keeps me hooked. i'm sucked in man.

"vindictive" - with a desire to hurt

Epiphany

i looked up the meaning of this word before i used it as a title. And while i wouldn't say it's most apt, it's the best one i can think of, which explains how i'm feeling.

I realised what's scary about a relationship is not quarrelling, not misunderstandings, mistakes, etc. It's when one or both parties quit trying. But i also realise that for a bad relationship, it's liberating for the one who quits. Liberating being "life-giving", "uplifting".

That's how i felt today. I realised that i'm not interested anymore. I'l just let things go wherever they go, or be stagnant, or spoil or whatever. Cheryl almost never stops trying. So if u've got Cheryl on a "not-trying" day, it means well, she's not trying anymore.

I've analysed it. I'm not bound by anything. i can take flight anytime i please. Heh.


*note. the relationship i've lost interest in is not one with a boy. neither is it a friendship. so i'm calling it a relationship. it's plain crap.

Paris

It is well-established that Paris is gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous. And when i saw it for myself, for a brief moment, i think i forgot to breathe. I only had 6 hours because the luggage deposit service at CDG only allowed a max of 6 hours for a grand price of 15Euros. Come take a peek at what i experienced:

i got off at this station.

the first glimpse of Paris. this is a snapshot of the first thing i saw when i emerged from the underground station. i think i exclaimed something to myself. i can't remember what.

then i just walked along the rivermy first sighting of the thing i most wanted to see.
and i kept walking toward it.
and troubled a passerby to help me take a picture
don't u think this pic looks like a painting?
on the bridge in front of the tower.
i think this passerby (the photographer) doesn't like the tip of the tower
i just had to take one more.
pics of me taken this way. no choice la.
Next sight: the Louve museum
it's faint, but it says there. Musee du Louvre. in gold lettering.
my first sighting of the pyramid.
there it is!

around the garden square at the pyramid area.

then i walked back toward the subway station.
Notre Dame Cathedrel. the chimes were donging and dinging.

a view of the cathedrel from across the river
and then it was time for me to take the subway back to the airport. bye Paris.