dailies
Monday, July 30, 2007
-12:45 AM
God knows. I did not want to fall. I did not.
God knows. I have to forgive. No more bitterness.
God knows. I made an inner vow. Its effects are cancelled.
God knows. I built a wall around. It is demolished.
God knows. I looked on with skepticism. Proven wrong.
God knows. I am so loved, so blessed… …
Sometimes I wonder why does Dage dote on me so unimaginably. I am not worthy. I asked God. He gave me a glimpse of God’s unfailing, matchless, assuring and unconditional love. Such a gentle and loving response. I can be myself. Yes, I can.
Your numerous achievements
To continue I pray
Your shy yet sunlit smiles
Have always made my days
Your little acts of kindness
That melted my heart away
Your gentle face and words
Sadly now down I lay
Sometimes I feel life is rather uninteresting. Maybe I have been single for too long? Haha. But I love to meet dear friends up. And Sundays are bonuses. Reasons? I enjoy… sharing lunch with Kenneth, listening to Tommy and Sharon bicker lovingly, laughing over Tommy’s corny jokes, enjoying Sharon’s witty responses and anecdotes, watching Joash eat, sleep, play and talk, worshipping God in the congregation, chatting with Michelle, seeing familiar faces, having meals with loved ones, napping in the afternoons, spending time with Gillian and on reading, and being loved by God through all of these. I enjoy Him.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
-12:47 AM
Did not want to frighten the growing bird, so I had to try to take a picture of it while it is in its nest. It already has feathers! Can you see it? So adorable! I wonder when will it be ready to take flight. Next week is my last week in school and perhaps my most busy week (will talk about this later). Hope to see the little one flap its wings... ...
2 Victory... ...
Their usual selves... bursting with energy...
The winning team for Week 5.
There is 1 registration next week, together with another major event. Have to be in school by around 7.30am for 3 consecutive days. Imagine, we still have to teach (preparing for lessons, markings, administration matters etc.) after that (am teaching in the afternoon session). And I still have my tuitions in the evenings. Argh... ...
-12:43 AM
My angels in their colour groups...
Thursday, July 26, 2007
-3:10 PM
MY ANGELIC PUPILS ARE... ...Fantastic
Marvelous
Extraordinary
Terrific
Remarkable
Wonderful
Dazzling
Amazing
Impressive
Stunning
Magnificent
Awesome
Superb
Splendid
Lovely
Outstanding
Brilliant
First-class
Inspiring
Beautiful
Sensational
Delightful
Astounding
Breath-taking
Exquisite
Special
Unqiue
Adorable
Endearing
Enchanting
Alluring
Warm-hearted... ...
Just like me
Hahaha
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
-10:33 PM
This is frightening... is the neighbourhood still safe?
Went to Diaso with TomSum and Jojo. He could not stay still for long...
Took this while I was on my way home after tuition. Love the recent weather.
My angels went for their Rhythm Bells Lesson on Tuesday and the instructress was full of praises for them. She remarked that they are impressive and I am so proud of them! Positive comments work wonders. I believe Theory Y works better than Theory X in terms of motivation.
Work life is mundane except for the interaction bit with my angels. I wish I could do more for them but time is running short. And I dislike teaching in the afternoon session still. Haa.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
-11:43 PM
So blessed! Some may feel that I have wasted my 3 years in SIM doing a degree in business administration but I think I received one of my most precious gifts from God there. Dage started off as just another classmate but through the years, he is one friend, whom I can count on regardless of situations. No questions asked and he is always there when I need a favour. Haha. He is my mobile street directory (and he knows his xiao mei is seldom direction savvy). He is one big miracle in my life. Every good and perfect gift is from my Father in heaven.
I heard him again. Few words were exchanged with complete formality. Was euphoric to receive his call but that was about it. Ephemeral exhilaration… …
Though separation is bitter, reunion is sweet. Five days seemed like eternity and time crawled like a snail. But when our eyes met, I knew I was not forgotten. Thanks jojo, for remembering me. I miss smelling your little feet. Hehe.
HEALTH QUESTION & ANSWER SESSION WITH A CARDIOLOGIST
Q: I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life; is this true?
A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it... don't waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.
Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
A: You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak is nothing more than an efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef is also a good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products.
Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?
A: No, not at all. Wine is made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine that means they take the water out of the fruity bit so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer is also made out of grain. Bottoms up!
Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?
A: Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio is two to one, etc.
Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain...Good!
Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
A: YOU'RE NOT LISTENING!!!......... Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil. In fact, they're permeated in it. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you?
Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach.
Q: Is chocolate bad for me?
A: Are you crazy? HELLO! Cocoa beans! Another vegetable!!! It's the best feel-good food around!
Q: Is swimming good for your figure?
A: If swimming is good for your figure, explain whales to me.
Q: Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape! Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets. And remember: Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - chardonnay in one hand - chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and screaming "WOO HOO, What a Ride!"
Friday, July 20, 2007
-1:12 PM
I think we can all do better with some
autonomy given (other than our rather uncommon common sense). Everyone is simply waiting for others to take actions. Why? For fear of making mistakes and thus taking the responsibility for them? For fear of crossing boundaries? For fear of the fact that nobody may listen to you? For fear of doing something beyond what you would normally do and moving out of your comfort zone? Whatever it is, some people are just not ready to delegate duties and empower others! The big picture is important, but the micro view is equally vital! This is especially so when we are holding events dealing mainly with children. We have to be
meticulous and at the very least, run through the activities in our minds and prepare for unforeseen circumstances. Argh… … everything is done at the eleventh hour and this can be so
frustrating. Alright, I am done with ventilating for the moment. Haha. By the way, happy Racial Harmony Day (20th July 2007)!
Thursday, July 19, 2007
-2:05 PM
Alright, hummingbirds can only be found in tropical Americas, so the ONE outside my classroom is not one. In Singapore, six species of sunbirds occur, that is about 4% of the total sunbird species worldwide. A few examples are the Brown-throated, also known as the Plain-throated Sunbird (Anthreptes malacensis), Olive-backed Sunbird (Nectarinia jugularis), which is the next most numerous, followed by the Copper-throated Sunbird (Nectarinia calcostetha) and the Crimson Sunbird (Aethopyga siparaja).I think my ONE is the Olive-backed Sunbird, as it resembles closely to what I have researched and found out, except that the egg is not greenish-blue with dark brown spots. Want more? Click on links as shown below.http://www.naturia.per.sg/buloh/birds/Nectarina_jugularis.htmhttp://wetlands.sbwr.org.sg/text/93-05.htmToday is a long day, as well as tomorrow. In fact, I need to report by 7.30am on Friday because we are celebrating Racial Harmony Day. There are expected guests from the public. Going to wear my punjabi suit. Actually, I like such commemorative events in school though there is alot of preparation work to be done. We are brought back to the remembrance of our history and not take racial harmony for granted. We learn to appreciate the different cultures and for the very fact that we are a melting pot of numerous races. Perhaps, being a teacher is one of the closest ways to knowing more about our rich heritage. I love Singapore!!!Recollections
by Mr Jim Aitchinson
There was a time, not long ago,
When other flags flew in Singapore.
The British flag in colonial rule,
And the Japanese flag in war.
There was no freedom, no justice,
When our forefathers stepped ashore.
Life was a struggle, bitter and hard.
And families were hungry and poor.
They spoke a dozen different tongues,
Though their dreams were all the same.
But their hopes
for a better life was lost
When war and invasion came.
RESPONSE (PUPILS)
They had no rights, they had no say,
And they longed to be free one day.
After the war, we called for change,
For the right to decide our fate.
Some of us wanted democracy;
Others, a Communist state.
Riots and killings in our streets,
Years of hate and fear.
People said we’d never survive
As independence drew near.
When self-rule came, we took a vote
And joined Malaysia, merged as one.
But even friends disagree sometime,
And more trouble had soon begun.
RESPONSE (PUPILS)
Our happiness was not to be
Until our country could be free
NARRATOR
August nine, nineteen sixty five,
We were out of Malaysia… alone!
Against all odds we had to build
A nation of our own.
We’ve come this far, by ourselves,
One people from many lands.
Our forefathers paid the price for us;
Now the future is in our hands.
This is our home, where we belong,
And our flag flies high and free.
But let’s not take for granted
What we have will always be.
RESPONSE (PUPILS)
We pledge to keep our nation free
With justice and equality…
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
-9:35 PM
I got it! I got it! I got it!
Took pictures of the precious baby... It is so tiny...
Can't wait for it to grow up...
Monday, July 16, 2007
-9:52 PM
I fell in love with this coffee cup the first time my eyes set on it. It was in Bangkok, and I carried it all the way back. Got another for a friend who is a coffee lover too.
Just seen my timetable. I will have to forego two of my tuitions on Tuesday evening because my class ends at 6.30pm. My income is greatly at stake and it will be 8pm by the time I reach home! And I will be in school until 5.30pm on Friday! My first semester’s timetable is really quite awful. I even have 3 hours and 4 hours breaks in between lessons. I would rather start very early and end early as well. Sigh… … serenity to accept the things I cannot change?
I managed to peek into the hanging nest. The egg has hatched and the tiny bird is red and featherless! I am going to try to take a picture of it tomorrow. =D
Sunday, July 15, 2007
-10:06 PM
Ah Kuen took and sent this to me among other pictures. Yes, that night of punking Rachel was fabulous. It was like shooting a movie. More clips are available at Tommy's blog. I must say Evan is quite a drama queen with countless expressions. Haha. And as I get to know some of the youths better, they are actually a dazzling lot. The more I interact with them (including the above mentioned two), the more virtues I see in these gems.
Wonder why Ah Kuen took this... Do I look scary? Or constipated?
Had a farewell dinner when Ra and her mother cooked for us. Many pictures were taken. This is one where I was trying to plant a kiss on Ra's face. She was giggling non-stop.
She was so excited. Chatted with him until 1am. She must have tried hard to suppress her excitement. This explained her anxiety in writing down and telling me what had happened during service itself. Kind of forgotten what it feels like. That longing to talk to or spend time with that special someone, even when you are terribly exhausted! Did you feel like you were cycling in a narrow lane and bumping everywhere (translate to Chinese, please)? Still so young! Plenty of opportunities, gal! But it is my prayer that the next one will be the one whom you will spend the rest of your life in bliss.
-9:58 PM
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A CHRISTIAN
Christians - By Maya Angelou
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting, "I'm clean living'."
I'm whispering,
"I was lost, Now I'm found and forgiven."
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need Christ to be my guide.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
And need His strength to carry on.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
And need God to clean my mess.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible
But, God believes I am worth it.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches
So I call upon His name.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner
Who received God's good grace, somehow!
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
Nelson Mandela
Friday, July 13, 2007
-11:48 PM
My primary six class for tuition on Science was split because it is too big! I miss those who are in another classroom. And this girl, by the name of Anthonette, refused to go to the other class. She spoke to and pleaded with me and the centre administrator but there is nothing both of us can do. This is a decision made by the authorities. Then, she sent me a personal sms. Her mother sent another. Both implored me to make her remain in my class. *sigh*
Daddy has been buying durians. The last batch was the most unforgettable. Each green fruit cost a mere fifty cents and they were heavenly! One of them even tasted like coffee. I could not stop at one. I was grumbling to dad not to buy any more of those prickly darlings and helping myself to them at the same time. Haha!
Two more pictures to share.
Taken by Pearlyn. Think I look the darkest here!
Taken by Andrew during church camp. Isn't he swwweeeeeet?
-11:13 PM
Watched Transformers for the second time with E-von and Simon at 1am on a Thursday morning. Thought I could afford to do that since I am teaching in the afternoon session. But I was gravely wrong. It was when I reached home and had to set the alarm when I realised I have to be in school by 8am for Titanium time (time set aside for teachers to meet for passing of information on what is coming up, training, workshops and etc.). All thanks to calls made by the school administrator who called me countless time to tell me if I am to report for the morning or afternoon session. I was utterly confused. So, it was too late. I slept only for around an hour. Wonder how I got through the day.
My day was worsened. Why? I was left with a heap of work, by the previous relief teacher, to be marked. And she was supposed to take my primary two class for good. A formal letter was even given to each pupil to explain for the change in form teacher. Then the bomb dropped right after my convocation. Apparently, this teacher is already attached to another school and our school had to arrange for me to take back my class. For goodness sake, how in her sane self did she commit to take my lovely eight years old angels then? I was peaved with all the calls made by parents to complain (some even left messages with the school administrator to ask me to return their calls). As expected, I was bombarded with questions from fellow colleagues and students. Heh! I was merely following orders. I have absolutely no say on which class to take.
On a better note, I tried mutton chop for the first time in my life, with E-von and Simon. I must say it looked like char siew and titillated my taste buds a little.
This is one of my students, whom I feel, resembles Harry Potter. What do you think?
Sent Rachel off this morning. Could not hold back my tears. Hate such scenes. Separations, which are part and parcel of life, are never easy to deal with for me. And she is such a lovely gem! I can still hear her calling me, with that tuneful voice of hers. She communicates her love with gifts so you can imagine how much she has been showering her affection on us! We hate to see her go but it is for the better. Believe she will be brought to greater heights in her life by God. Before I left that airport, I took a few pictures of the cheerful sunflowers (my favourite). By the way, why do they seem to look down when they are supposed to convey happiness?
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
-10:19 PM
Above : With Chris and Faith
Above : With Marie and Chris
Above : With Pearlyn, Zhen Zhi and Stephanie
Above: With Marie
Above : With Michelle
Convocation on the 11th of July. Finally, it is over. Yet, the end is but another beginning.
Taking back my Primary 2 class after so much hooha. A little excited. Will be able to fulfill what I promised them given this extra grace period?
Am saddened by what one of my CDAC pupils did in school today. Was told by his friends that he hit another classmate with a badminton racket out of anger. This classmate was thus sent to the hospital and had quite a number of stitches - his parents intend to make it a police case. The surprising fact is, this boy is a little gem in my class. Why did he do that? Apparently, everyone has condemned him. Yet, he is still putting on a smile on his face. Who knows how much hurt and emotional turmoil there is under this facade? I believe he ought to be spoken to properly and given a second chance. Maybe counseling can help? I have to find a chance to talk to him. The school security guard told me that he listens to me (didn't know this)! Meanwhile, I can only pray... ...
Monday, July 09, 2007
-10:37 PM
Finally, before I leave my darlings, I managed to get two more pictures of the bird. It was having its nap, I think. After which a class walked past and it woke up.
Some of my dear babies thought I am a Malay. They were so in awe when I spoke in Mandarin to a parent today. As usual, I was tickled though it is not my first time to have experienced such a situation. And they were so amused when I called them my “darlings”.
Another teacher is taking over my host of angels. I was told to report in the morning after the convocation. I wonder if I am able to wake up so early after getting used to sleeping and waking up late.
But it is lovely to wake up when it is still dark. It is definitely a luxury to talk to God when the surrounding is so serene. There’s a kind of hush, all over the world… maybe God will speak clearer then? Whose heart is mine beating in tandem with?
Played with Jojo for a while before he slept. This charming gem is quick in picking up things. Tommy and Sharon must be cautious in their usage of words from now. Hehe. His smiles melt me…
Also caught up with Jarrod over dinner. Relaxing meal and nice walk to deliver my worksheets for a group of pupils.
Caught The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (with Wee Kiat) and Transformers (with Pearlyn and Zhiyong). The latter is dazzling and I want to catch it again!!! The former set me thinking on a few issues. What will it take for one to realize a loss? Why do we learn to treasure only after feeling the pain of a loss? How do we know if that comfortable feeling is love in disguise? A few fundamental facts which we probably did not dwell long enough to find out the reasons. Life flies?
He did not recognize me. Still, it was comforting to hear his voice, all friendly and warm.
Sunday, July 08, 2007
-11:53 PM
Esther had her hair cut. She is super adorable and resembles Krystal with her new hairstyle. 
Had dinner with a big group. Aim? To punk Rachel before she leaves for Australia. Cover up? Celebrate Tommy’s birthday. I thought the whole scam was menacing. Imagine being tied up and blindfolded, after being physically marked with all kinds of drawings! She also had to wear a hat (especially made by Kenneth) and escorted to Sakura from Specialist’s Centre by a group of stars (that’s us?). Haha.
Took this with Ah Tong... She looks so cute, right?
These are the gals... ...
The gals again... posing.
If only fun and happy times last forever...
-11:38 PM
Was late to meet Wee Kiat as I had to take my mum’s orders. Haha. Took only a few pictures so as not to disrupt their work. This is mum with the panel of judges for her vegetarian bee hoon. The guy in blue (on the extreme left) was so impressed that he finished everything up within minutes.
This is mum with the Super Compere (Cuifang) and Adonis (Elvin). The latter is always flashing his megawatt smile. I think the TV screen does not do justice to Elvin (he simply looks more dashing in person). Alright, I know his acting skills still need some polishing. Cuifang is amiable too and kept thanking my mum for whipping up the dishes for them.
MIU? Men in uniform... They were in a deep conversation when mum asked to have a picture with them. I reckoned that was the reason why they were not very forthcoming in their response. Managed to get Cavin (the more friendly of the two) to sign on his album (which I bought years ago). It was his first, and so far, only album. Surprisingly, he looks much bigger (muscular) in person. And don't be surprised - Bryan is towering!
If you are interested in having cheap and good vegetarian food, come to my mum's stall? Better still, ask me along to enjoy a free meal. Haha. It is at Ah Moy Food Centre. Second floor, #2114. It is next to Telok Aye Chinese Methodist Church, if I am not wrong. Get off at Tanjong Pagar MRT and get your feet moving? Sorry, I am not very good with directions. And her stall is closed during the weekends.
Friday, July 06, 2007
-11:54 PM
http://fathersloveletter.com/fllpreviewlarge.html
Thursday, July 05, 2007
-9:19 PM
Into the freezing fridge. Into the scorching sauna. Into the freezing fridge. Into the scorching sauna. Into the freezing fridge. Into the scorching sauna. Then I broke down. I abhor this but I cannot help it. I used to think I am very strong but I guess I am wrong? Could it be the weather and durians that daddy bought? Maybe I have not been faithful in taking my vitamins and taking care of myself. Whatever the case is, I am down with flu again. Argh… …Mummy is going to be featured on TV. Apparently, her vegetarian food has stolen the hearts (and stomachs) of many and she was approached to go on a show that credits good food. And yes, celebrities will be going to her stall and she “appointed” me to be her personal photographer that day. I hope I will be feeling better then. Imagine a photographer sneezing away with a runny red nose. Eeewww… …
-3:27 PM
Spot the mistake and win prizes? Haha!
Took the above two pictures during church camp at Desaru. B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L, right?
Andrew took this of Joash in the hotel room. And I was touching his face (lovingly). Isn't he such a darling?
This is a true account of what was heard on a recent flight from Shenzhen to Qingtao by XXX Airlines:"Good afternoon, Ladies and the German. This is your cheap purser Wang Lui speaking. On behalf of XXX Airlines, I would like to welcome you on board our Bowling 737 from Shenzhen to Qingtao. Members of my crew speak Chinese and other languages that you do not know. It is a great pressure serving you to-die. Should you need any resistance during the fright, peace do pest the call button. I and my gals are available to make you feel comfortable. Meanwhile, the airkwaft is going to fry. Peace sit upright and keep you belt tightly fastened until dinner is served at five dirty p.m. Hope you would enjoy your fright with us. Funk kill."
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
-9:47 PM
This is the completed bird nest. Took it with my camera phone so it is not clear enough. Will be bringing my camera to school tomorrow to get a good picture of it.
This is the one with the bird in the nest. You have to really see carefully to spot its little head and beak. It flies off whenever I get nearer to it.
I took the egg from the nest and took a picture of it. It is so tiny – around the size of a ten cent coin. Then the fear of bird flu struck and I quickly said a prayer. Silly? By the way, the egg shell is translucent – I could see the egg yolk.
Now, when will the little bird hatch? I hope it is before I leave the school. I think I will be praying for them from now on. Argh… life! Life! Life! It is like having my own baby. Haha.
Another tutor sent me a sms to congratulate my crossing over to the degree program! I wonder how did the news get around and who gave my number away. Anyway, it was a pleasant surprise.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
-11:54 PM
Ms G : When you are not sure if a vegetable is really one, do check for the scar. If it has a scar, it is a fruit, not a vegetable.
Child : Ms G, I have a scar too. Am I a fruit?
The rest of the children were giggling.
Ms G : Then the rest of you who are without scars, are you vegetables?
This is a real scenario when I was teaching a group of Primary Six pupils, who were trying hard to be cheeky! I added the part on 'are you vegetables'... Hee...
My primary two pupils are amused by how excited I can get over the birds and their (love) nest. The nest is actually now completely done up, just over one long weekend! I am trying hard to get a picture of one of the birds in its nest. Exciting, right? I think I am sometimes like a big child, teaching the little ones. My mum said so too. =p
Monday, July 02, 2007
-11:37 PM
My Youth Day was spent with BTs (beginning teachers). We had a potluck session in the afternoon. Look at the glorious food!
The male BTs, except Wee Kiat. He decided to join in so that we can go to PartyWorld together after lunch.
The female BTs. Alright, I am supposed to be out.
Cheeky Alvin trying to play hide and seek.
Had fun today! I was quite entertaining at PartyWorld, trying to imitate Faye Wong and Mariah Carey? It was my first time out with Tsai Ling (together with her husband and son, Le Le), Juliana (Eileen's friend) and Lay Kim. We also had dinner at Little Thailand. Enjoyed myself thoroughly! =D
