An all time favourite dedicated to hubs Mr. Jang who is still working hard in the office at 1.30am.
One of my childhood friends put up the modern edition on FB today, but I found the original version. The lyrics of the song is written by the singer's wife. I shall translate it to English, keeping the gist of the song. :)
陪著你走 - 盧冠廷 (I will walk with you)
曲︰盧冠廷
詞︰唐書琛
編︰CHRIS BABIDA
誰說 時間片刻變陳舊
(who says that time will quickly become the past)
全為我分秒亦停留
(the seconds and minutes will stop for me)
因我 身邊有你緊握我的手
(because I have you beside me holding my hand)
這份愛 誰說永不會長壽
(who says this love will never last)
陪著你一生到白頭
(I will be with you for a lifetime till we grow old)
都能 把心中星星閃得通透
(we can still make the stars in our hearts shine brightly)
陪著你走 一生一世也不分
(I will walk with you and we will never be apart)
天天編出兩雙足印 過千山過千海
(we will create two pairs of footsteps everyday and cross thousands of mountains and seas)
如果 走到這世界邊端
(if we reach the end of the world)
我倆已是無力前行
(and we are both unable to walk any further)
跟我一起飛去
(please fly away together with me)
請你伴我同路去
(please keep me company along this journey)
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Sunday, March 13, 2011
confessions of a young (?) workaholic
The past month has been crazy. And I mean crazily crazy. I was practically working non-stop day and night (yes, I managed to squeeze some breaks in-between but all I could remember was me with the laptop, the laptop with me, me with a whole lot of newspapers, a whole lot of newspapers with me). I vaguely remember having proper dinners, probably because even when I was having them, my mind was on the 101 things that I haven't finished or even started doing at work. The only think that I could remember was that thankfully, I got my butt out of the chair and jog a bit on a regularly basis.
Ok, I know. My workload is probably not the heaviest, I am probably not the hardest working one, there are a million out there who are doing more and working harder, and so I don't know why I am feeling grouchy. I really don't know... perhaps the frustrations of feeling that sometimes, the work that we do is not as value-adding? that sometimes, I am questioning the rationale and the need to do certain things? Heck, a lot of things. And perhaps, the meaning of why I joined the organisation in the first place is slowing fading away.
Don't get me wrong. I love working. I love the adrenaline of working towards something and the sense of satisfaction I get when I accomplished an assignment, like the one which has been handed down to me when my colleague suddenly resigned earlier this month. Love knowing that I gave my all to what I did. So again, I ask myself, "Hey woman, what's wrong with you ah? Early menopause?"
The search for answer is killing me, as I wait in suspense on what I would do next. It's like I don't know myself anymore... It's like swimming in fast currents without knowing where I will be going or more importantly, where I want to go. Should I just follow the flow or attempt to head towards another direction? I may only find the answer when I look back a fews years from now. In the meantime, the urgent task at hand is to keep my sanity as best as I could.
Ok, I know. My workload is probably not the heaviest, I am probably not the hardest working one, there are a million out there who are doing more and working harder, and so I don't know why I am feeling grouchy. I really don't know... perhaps the frustrations of feeling that sometimes, the work that we do is not as value-adding? that sometimes, I am questioning the rationale and the need to do certain things? Heck, a lot of things. And perhaps, the meaning of why I joined the organisation in the first place is slowing fading away.
Don't get me wrong. I love working. I love the adrenaline of working towards something and the sense of satisfaction I get when I accomplished an assignment, like the one which has been handed down to me when my colleague suddenly resigned earlier this month. Love knowing that I gave my all to what I did. So again, I ask myself, "Hey woman, what's wrong with you ah? Early menopause?"
The search for answer is killing me, as I wait in suspense on what I would do next. It's like I don't know myself anymore... It's like swimming in fast currents without knowing where I will be going or more importantly, where I want to go. Should I just follow the flow or attempt to head towards another direction? I may only find the answer when I look back a fews years from now. In the meantime, the urgent task at hand is to keep my sanity as best as I could.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Valentine's Day
Mr. Jang and I did the typical couple thing and went for a nice dinner at Amara Hotel this Valentine's Day. The food wasn't particularly fantastic but the ambience was nice.
This is neither my hand nor his. The food was cooked by a waitress (and hence it tasted better than if it would have been cooked by us)! :D
Check out the seafood pancake, which is quite yummy when dipped in the special sauce.
And what is Valentine's Day without a furry gift!! I may be, ahem, nearing thirties but I still love a cuddly toy. OK maybe not as much as before but I just can't resist My Melody. Kawaii ne!
Sunday, February 13, 2011
妈妈
有少许因为同事的妈妈也病了，所以我上个星期五请了假，除了去身体检验之外，还能陪妈妈逛一天。
从记忆开始，就只记得跟妈妈的关系不太好。当然有好玩的时候。但大多数只记得老是被骂，老是说我欺负姐姐、刁蛮、脾气不好。还记得有一次她很生气地说我为什么要令人讨厌，为什么这么没用。也许我小时候真的很调皮，可当时的打击也挺大的（要不然也不会到现在还记得）。长大后，或许因为成绩还不错的关系，妈妈常常“鼓励”我做某些事情、读某些科目。我也因为怕被骂再加上倔强，读到多辛苦也不出声，只敢哭着跟姐姐说。
就这样，我对妈妈，从小时候的害怕转移到长大后的不满。
大概十年前，妈妈患了癌症。当时第一个反应不是担心，而是内疚。我的性格跟姐姐很不一样，不喜欢过份表示关怀。也因为多年来习惯和妈妈对立，所以也只是站在一旁尴尬地尝试慰问。等她的病好转了，一切大概恢复正常。我也不像爸和姐姐一样，监督妈妈又没有定时吃药。
不晓得从何时开始，我发现妈妈老了很多。不只是外表，连行动思想也慢了许多。有好几次不耐烦地催妈妈“快D啦你！”、“怎么这样也想不起来？” 现在想想，应该是妈妈真的老了，不再是以前那个有力气常常骂我的人。所以，我现在也尝试放多点耐性。虽然这不是一件容易的事，特别是我为减少摩擦，习惯了与妈妈保持距离，要更改沟通方式，的确需要时间。
不过，同事妈妈的病，让我再次记得要珍惜身边的家人，无论他们可爱或不可爱，始终是家人。所以，就让大家尽力去珍惜。别等到最后才觉悟吧。
从记忆开始，就只记得跟妈妈的关系不太好。当然有好玩的时候。但大多数只记得老是被骂，老是说我欺负姐姐、刁蛮、脾气不好。还记得有一次她很生气地说我为什么要令人讨厌，为什么这么没用。也许我小时候真的很调皮，可当时的打击也挺大的（要不然也不会到现在还记得）。长大后，或许因为成绩还不错的关系，妈妈常常“鼓励”我做某些事情、读某些科目。我也因为怕被骂再加上倔强，读到多辛苦也不出声，只敢哭着跟姐姐说。
就这样，我对妈妈，从小时候的害怕转移到长大后的不满。
大概十年前，妈妈患了癌症。当时第一个反应不是担心，而是内疚。我的性格跟姐姐很不一样，不喜欢过份表示关怀。也因为多年来习惯和妈妈对立，所以也只是站在一旁尴尬地尝试慰问。等她的病好转了，一切大概恢复正常。我也不像爸和姐姐一样，监督妈妈又没有定时吃药。
不晓得从何时开始，我发现妈妈老了很多。不只是外表，连行动思想也慢了许多。有好几次不耐烦地催妈妈“快D啦你！”、“怎么这样也想不起来？” 现在想想，应该是妈妈真的老了，不再是以前那个有力气常常骂我的人。所以，我现在也尝试放多点耐性。虽然这不是一件容易的事，特别是我为减少摩擦，习惯了与妈妈保持距离，要更改沟通方式，的确需要时间。
不过，同事妈妈的病，让我再次记得要珍惜身边的家人，无论他们可爱或不可爱，始终是家人。所以，就让大家尽力去珍惜。别等到最后才觉悟吧。
Sunday, January 16, 2011
weirdo me
Because FB account has been "infiltrated" by loads of colleagues, I feel that I can only air my work-related grievances here. But this is going to sound really weird.
I am utterly frustrated and unhappy that I have to burn my weekday evenings and weekends for 4 consecutive days for piles of silly work that I have to do. I have been working non-stop since Wed. I haven't exactly talked to hubs, my mom (who's been here since Thu) or my sis for the entire 4 days. But on the other hand, I feel secretly proud of the fact that I have produced 2 CL speech (+submission), 1 EL speech (+submission), 80% of a "research" report, and 40% of a write-up over this short span of time. And I really feel that the quality of work is already done to the best of my ability.
And in the meantime, I am still harbouring thoughts of seeking a 出路。Working in the currently org is like being with a boyfriend who makes me feel secured, yet I don't know if I love him or not... but I do feel guilty cos the family members are really nice to me. And they are trying to make me feel reassured by telling me that marriage is on the cards.
Should I break up with this boyfriend, and go out to the unknown? A senior whom I spoke to outside the toilet the other day said he/she recommmends me to do so. They always make it sound like there are a lot of big, bad wolves out there, he/she said, but it is not true.
So, boyfriend boyfriend, we patch back for a while but is our relationship meant to last? I really don't know. Any maybe I really want to find out if I can last outside without your love and protection. And admittedly, I am scared that the thought, too. Being with you just give me too much of a sense of stability that I know I probably won't find elsewhere.
Sigh. And that's why they said love and relationships are complicated matters.
I am utterly frustrated and unhappy that I have to burn my weekday evenings and weekends for 4 consecutive days for piles of silly work that I have to do. I have been working non-stop since Wed. I haven't exactly talked to hubs, my mom (who's been here since Thu) or my sis for the entire 4 days. But on the other hand, I feel secretly proud of the fact that I have produced 2 CL speech (+submission), 1 EL speech (+submission), 80% of a "research" report, and 40% of a write-up over this short span of time. And I really feel that the quality of work is already done to the best of my ability.
And in the meantime, I am still harbouring thoughts of seeking a 出路。Working in the currently org is like being with a boyfriend who makes me feel secured, yet I don't know if I love him or not... but I do feel guilty cos the family members are really nice to me. And they are trying to make me feel reassured by telling me that marriage is on the cards.
Should I break up with this boyfriend, and go out to the unknown? A senior whom I spoke to outside the toilet the other day said he/she recommmends me to do so. They always make it sound like there are a lot of big, bad wolves out there, he/she said, but it is not true.
So, boyfriend boyfriend, we patch back for a while but is our relationship meant to last? I really don't know. Any maybe I really want to find out if I can last outside without your love and protection. And admittedly, I am scared that the thought, too. Being with you just give me too much of a sense of stability that I know I probably won't find elsewhere.
Sigh. And that's why they said love and relationships are complicated matters.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
First wedding anniversary celebration
I would use the word "adventurous" to describe our first wedding anniversary celebration.
What with losing our way (again!) at Pulau Ubin and taking what the guide described to be the toughest route... being scared to death by wild dogs fighting and the sudden unexpected appearance of a wild boar (wraggggggh!!!)... holding in my bladder as much as possible cos of the gigantic iguana in the toilet (grrr) ... and and and... just cycling round and round and taking loads of funny poseur photos and being totally oblivious to other tourists/visitors staring at us. (man, what's there to stare at huh?!) and of cos ending it all with a nice and simple zichar dinner at one of the "restaurants" (and going to Tampines to get camera stuff after that and of course to finally relieve myself)...
I enjoyed myself tremendously despite Mr. Jang's constant teasing about how I am not suited for Pulau Ubin, and that I always plan stuff to 自己吓自己. And all these are yet again reminders of why we are married. We poke fun at each other all the time. We laugh. We bicker. We make each other's blood boil. We wrestle. We pinch cheeks. We headlock etc etc... at the end of the day, it's a quiet understanding that we are free to talk about anything and be who we are without any barriers or restraints.
So here's to us... our first wedding anniversary. And many many more to come as we grow old together! When your skin is sagging, I will still be pinching your cheek. When I've forgotten who you are, you will still be poking fun at my planning. Wahaha... :)
Happy first anniversary dear. :D
What with losing our way (again!) at Pulau Ubin and taking what the guide described to be the toughest route... being scared to death by wild dogs fighting and the sudden unexpected appearance of a wild boar (wraggggggh!!!)... holding in my bladder as much as possible cos of the gigantic iguana in the toilet (grrr) ... and and and... just cycling round and round and taking loads of funny poseur photos and being totally oblivious to other tourists/visitors staring at us. (man, what's there to stare at huh?!) and of cos ending it all with a nice and simple zichar dinner at one of the "restaurants" (and going to Tampines to get camera stuff after that and of course to finally relieve myself)...
I enjoyed myself tremendously despite Mr. Jang's constant teasing about how I am not suited for Pulau Ubin, and that I always plan stuff to 自己吓自己. And all these are yet again reminders of why we are married. We poke fun at each other all the time. We laugh. We bicker. We make each other's blood boil. We wrestle. We pinch cheeks. We headlock etc etc... at the end of the day, it's a quiet understanding that we are free to talk about anything and be who we are without any barriers or restraints.
So here's to us... our first wedding anniversary. And many many more to come as we grow old together! When your skin is sagging, I will still be pinching your cheek. When I've forgotten who you are, you will still be poking fun at my planning. Wahaha... :)
Happy first anniversary dear. :D
Friday, January 7, 2011
Submission approved by Mr Jang
Dear Mr Jang
This is to seek Mr Jang’s approval for the plans for the first wedding anniversary on 9 Jan 2011. Details for the plan, as well as wet weather contingency, is as follows:
A) Simple, enjoyable and healthy outdoor activities – to change into sports gear and proceed for chicken rice lunch at Changi Village after church at 1.30pm. Thereafter, to board the bumboat ride at $2.50 per pax to Pulau Ubin and participate in a 3-hour bicycle ride. Mr Jang might wish to bring along your own bicycle helmet as well as the Lumix camera for photography. Thereafter, to proceed for a seafood/zichar dinner at one of the restaurants at Pulau Ubin before going home at 9pm. Should Mr. Jang feel unsatisfied with the zichar dinner, lasi lemak supper is available at the Changi Village hawker centre.
Mr Jang might wish to read up or download the Pulau Ubin map at: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/cms/index.php?option=com_visitorsguide&task=parks&id=29&Itemid=73.
B) Wet weather contingency plan – to have lunch at Mr Jang’s preferred restaurant/coffee shop after church. Thereafter, to proceed for a movie at Marina Square. Recommended title is “love and other drugs” (tickets are not booked yet as it depends on the weather on Sunday). Thereafter, to walk over to Marina Bay Sands and have dinner at Jin Shan, a renowned Chinese restaurant. Reservations have been made for two pax at 7.30pm.
Mr Jang might wish to find out more about the Chinese restaurant at: http://www.marinabaysands.com/Restaurants/Jin_Shan.aspx.
2 The above is submitted for Mr Jang’s approval please. Thank you.
Submitted by: Mrs Jang
Date: 7 Jan 2011
This is to seek Mr Jang’s approval for the plans for the first wedding anniversary on 9 Jan 2011. Details for the plan, as well as wet weather contingency, is as follows:
A) Simple, enjoyable and healthy outdoor activities – to change into sports gear and proceed for chicken rice lunch at Changi Village after church at 1.30pm. Thereafter, to board the bumboat ride at $2.50 per pax to Pulau Ubin and participate in a 3-hour bicycle ride. Mr Jang might wish to bring along your own bicycle helmet as well as the Lumix camera for photography. Thereafter, to proceed for a seafood/zichar dinner at one of the restaurants at Pulau Ubin before going home at 9pm. Should Mr. Jang feel unsatisfied with the zichar dinner, lasi lemak supper is available at the Changi Village hawker centre.
Mr Jang might wish to read up or download the Pulau Ubin map at: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/cms/index.php?option=com_visitorsguide&task=parks&id=29&Itemid=73.
B) Wet weather contingency plan – to have lunch at Mr Jang’s preferred restaurant/coffee shop after church. Thereafter, to proceed for a movie at Marina Square. Recommended title is “love and other drugs” (tickets are not booked yet as it depends on the weather on Sunday). Thereafter, to walk over to Marina Bay Sands and have dinner at Jin Shan, a renowned Chinese restaurant. Reservations have been made for two pax at 7.30pm.
Mr Jang might wish to find out more about the Chinese restaurant at: http://www.marinabaysands.com/Restaurants/Jin_Shan.aspx.
2 The above is submitted for Mr Jang’s approval please. Thank you.
Submitted by: Mrs Jang
Date: 7 Jan 2011
Saturday, January 1, 2011
wrote this on 30 Dec... on the flight back to HK :)
Year 2010
“It is in the act of facing the storm that you discover what lies inside you and decide what lies before you.”
It is that time of the year again where I (together with million others in the world, I presume) look back at how we have done in the past year and then set new resolutions for the coming year. Funny how, when I think back, that my resolutions are more or less the same year after year, and I never seem to be able to achieve them. Therefore this year, I should apply the backward engineering approach to see if I can come up with something more achievable. Let’s see, my confirmed plans for next year is to move to a new house, maybe try for a baby (?!), and… I don’t know, I guess the most “confirmed” plan I have is to not to have a plan (especially in terms of work) and just take things as it comes.
So many things have happened this year that were totally unexpected. Oh no no, the wedding IS part of the plan although I have openly admitted that I don’t know when I will ever be ready-ready since I am still such a girl inside. But my decision to quit my job and then come back is unexpected (that and the dramatic lunch with the bosses where I felt horribly apologetic and cried, yes, shame shame!) And then my involvement in church ministry is unexpected. Still feeling like a klutz cos not sure how to do it well but am sure that God will provide. Mr. Jang and I are already going to sign up for classes on this together. Yay! Love classes.
Ok, I am digressing and rambling all over the place here. But allow me to do so since it’s just once a year. Talking about doing well… yes I still have an almost insane tendency to want to do well for a lot of stuff. I want to be a good wife, a good sister, a good friend, a good colleague, a good worker, a good citizen etc. Is it possible for a person to be “good” in every role? I realised the problem with me is that I don’t care if it is a yes or a no, I just want to do it! And and and, greedy me want more than just to be “good”. I want to learn. I want to learn more about everything – the world, different languages, cooking stuff, arts & craft, work skills, health habits etc. Maybe that is the reason why I burn out so easily. I am greedy, and I take “live life to the fullest” a little too literally. Am bursting with so many things that I need to do that I am going at 1000km/h.
Coming back to the stuff that has happened this year, I think the best way to describe it is that things did not turn out the way I thought it would be. I had envisaged that I will continue to shine in my new posting. Yes, shine. I had no doubts about my ability to pick up new skills and adapt to a new environment, but I was wrong in that I did not expect myself to be torn between two places – home and work, and I did not adapt well in my new roles. Even till now I still cannot completely let go of the fact that I had overestimated myself. But then, I discovered that once I let go of my pride and accept a lesson in humility, I feel happier and stronger. Maybe it feels like accepting myself as an imperfect person for the first time, and then having the courage, energy and enthusiasm to start all over again?
“Your heart is revealed and your character is forged when life does not turn out the way you planned.”
Indeed. I learnt that I am a vulnerable, less-than-perfect person, and I have also become wiser and more patient with myself. If I could live all over again, there is not a single thing that I’d want to change.
So, here’s to 2010. May it be a lesson to not plan so much in advance, take things as it comes, and learn something from it, come what may.
And may 2011 be an even more unexpected year! Oh… exciting!!
“It is in the act of facing the storm that you discover what lies inside you and decide what lies before you.”
It is that time of the year again where I (together with million others in the world, I presume) look back at how we have done in the past year and then set new resolutions for the coming year. Funny how, when I think back, that my resolutions are more or less the same year after year, and I never seem to be able to achieve them. Therefore this year, I should apply the backward engineering approach to see if I can come up with something more achievable. Let’s see, my confirmed plans for next year is to move to a new house, maybe try for a baby (?!), and… I don’t know, I guess the most “confirmed” plan I have is to not to have a plan (especially in terms of work) and just take things as it comes.
So many things have happened this year that were totally unexpected. Oh no no, the wedding IS part of the plan although I have openly admitted that I don’t know when I will ever be ready-ready since I am still such a girl inside. But my decision to quit my job and then come back is unexpected (that and the dramatic lunch with the bosses where I felt horribly apologetic and cried, yes, shame shame!) And then my involvement in church ministry is unexpected. Still feeling like a klutz cos not sure how to do it well but am sure that God will provide. Mr. Jang and I are already going to sign up for classes on this together. Yay! Love classes.
Ok, I am digressing and rambling all over the place here. But allow me to do so since it’s just once a year. Talking about doing well… yes I still have an almost insane tendency to want to do well for a lot of stuff. I want to be a good wife, a good sister, a good friend, a good colleague, a good worker, a good citizen etc. Is it possible for a person to be “good” in every role? I realised the problem with me is that I don’t care if it is a yes or a no, I just want to do it! And and and, greedy me want more than just to be “good”. I want to learn. I want to learn more about everything – the world, different languages, cooking stuff, arts & craft, work skills, health habits etc. Maybe that is the reason why I burn out so easily. I am greedy, and I take “live life to the fullest” a little too literally. Am bursting with so many things that I need to do that I am going at 1000km/h.
Coming back to the stuff that has happened this year, I think the best way to describe it is that things did not turn out the way I thought it would be. I had envisaged that I will continue to shine in my new posting. Yes, shine. I had no doubts about my ability to pick up new skills and adapt to a new environment, but I was wrong in that I did not expect myself to be torn between two places – home and work, and I did not adapt well in my new roles. Even till now I still cannot completely let go of the fact that I had overestimated myself. But then, I discovered that once I let go of my pride and accept a lesson in humility, I feel happier and stronger. Maybe it feels like accepting myself as an imperfect person for the first time, and then having the courage, energy and enthusiasm to start all over again?
“Your heart is revealed and your character is forged when life does not turn out the way you planned.”
Indeed. I learnt that I am a vulnerable, less-than-perfect person, and I have also become wiser and more patient with myself. If I could live all over again, there is not a single thing that I’d want to change.
So, here’s to 2010. May it be a lesson to not plan so much in advance, take things as it comes, and learn something from it, come what may.
And may 2011 be an even more unexpected year! Oh… exciting!!
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Merci merci :)
Merci Seigneur, pour des petites choses que tu m'avez donne.
Je n'ai pas passe une tres bonne journee au bureau aujourd'hui (due a quelque chose) et j'avais des plans de passer une soiree tranquille avec mon mari et ma soeur. Mais mes cheries m'ont pris par surprise et j'ai fini par passer une tres tres bonne et amusante soiree avec elles.
Donc, merci Seigneur, pour ton amour pour moi, pour me rendre compte qu'il y a beaucoup de gens et d'amies qui sont tres tres gentilles.
Tu es grand!
Je n'ai pas passe une tres bonne journee au bureau aujourd'hui (due a quelque chose) et j'avais des plans de passer une soiree tranquille avec mon mari et ma soeur. Mais mes cheries m'ont pris par surprise et j'ai fini par passer une tres tres bonne et amusante soiree avec elles.
Donc, merci Seigneur, pour ton amour pour moi, pour me rendre compte qu'il y a beaucoup de gens et d'amies qui sont tres tres gentilles.
Tu es grand!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Bintan!
This was what Bintan looked like when sis and I went for our retreat just last weekend! Ok, it didn't look like this when we first reached (it was raining really heavily!) but at least we had a full sunny day on our second day there! Didn't swim much but just lie by the pool side reading loads of magazines... this is what I call a good life. Hmm....
Too bad it only lasted 2 days. In any case Bintan (at least the Nirwana side) has improved over the years. Think the first time I went there, there was literally nothing much to do except to swim, eat and sleep. Now, there is flying fox, horse/elephant riding, archery, air rifle, bowling etc etc. A good place to just get away from Singapore for the weekend! ^ ^ Warning though, pasar oleh oleh is still as waste time as ever. Haha! :D
Thank you Gaga!
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Testing NEX-5
Almonn modelling for me as usual. Placed him on the bay window to prevent him from fidgeting. Obviously, his expression was one of resignation and boredom. His typical are-you-done-yet face.
My short-lived lunch time piano lessons. Told the school today that I am going to stop after this term. Partly because of work committment, partly because the teacher, whom I really like, is going back to China next year. The good thing is, I understand the "concepts" so much better. I just need to practise, practise, practise! Can play the doxology pretty well now, so am going to concentrate on practising Amazing Grace and a simplified version of Canon.
This is from my bathroom. I am famous for taking long, long showers! And Mr. Jang knows that I cannot live with dirty smelly toilets. Anyway, we fell in love with L'Occitane shower stuff when we were using it at Ascott during one of Dad's business trips. Of course, there is a rule that we only use it at night, so that we will have a good night's sleep. High end stuff, so need to ration it.
My short-lived lunch time piano lessons. Told the school today that I am going to stop after this term. Partly because of work committment, partly because the teacher, whom I really like, is going back to China next year. The good thing is, I understand the "concepts" so much better. I just need to practise, practise, practise! Can play the doxology pretty well now, so am going to concentrate on practising Amazing Grace and a simplified version of Canon.
This is from my bathroom. I am famous for taking long, long showers! And Mr. Jang knows that I cannot live with dirty smelly toilets. Anyway, we fell in love with L'Occitane shower stuff when we were using it at Ascott during one of Dad's business trips. Of course, there is a rule that we only use it at night, so that we will have a good night's sleep. High end stuff, so need to ration it.
Anyway, thank you to Mr Jang for getting me NEX-5 for annivesary, birthday and Christmas! Have been eyeing it ever since I read about it on SQ's inflight magazine. Hence, it's a dream present. Thank you dear!! :)
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
It's December
(In a cosy Christmas mood at home. New scented Yankee candles with snowman.)
December has always been my favourite month - Christmas, birthday, dating anniversary. It is also the month where I'd plan my annual holidays. This year though, I foresee that I will be working real hard. Afterall, there is no more leave to take. How sad can that be... :( (Ok, I know. I had my fun in Aug... but that is like so far away.)
But then, there are a few things that I can surely look forward to:
i) Am going to Bintan this weekend with Sis (as my early birthday pressie). Such a wonderful sister!
ii) Mr Jang is planning a dinner for dating anniversary. It's been 8 long years!
iii) I'm going to have steamboat dinner again for birthday. Yay! Love love love steamboat!
iv) Dad and Mum are coming for Christmas, and Wendy and family are coming slightly before new year. Looking forward to loads of bonding time!
v) HK time at the end of December. Grandparents and cousins, eating and shopping, here we come!
This December is going to be slightly different from the past Decembers because there won't be any long holidays. But it's going to be awesome all the same! Am determined not to let work frustrations ruin the festive mood. Will evaluate my Great Escape Plan again after December. Haha...
Thursday, November 18, 2010
A little setback, a little motivation...
A couple of months ago, Boss told me during my work review that my host min has given me a B+ (which is supposed to be very good). Today, Boss told me that I have been given a C after the ranking exercise, and explained that downwards moderation is quite common . :/ I think she tried to console me by telling me that I am under a small group peeps that the management keeps an eye on for development.
To be honest, I didn't think that I deserved a B+ in the first place (I didn't feel that I have done enough). But then again, to be downgraded all the way to a C... hmm... I was actually thinking, oops, there goes my renovation budget for next year! :(
But then I go back to my motto of thanking God for giving me enough rewards to keep me motivated, and enough setbacks to keep me down to earth and grounded. And I know that whenever I fall, I pick myself up fast and bounce back stronger and wiser.
I also read a good statement today: being obedient doesn't mean the end of adversity. In the same way, I am not going to expect that life will be all rosy and smooth. But I do have faith that I won't lack anything or be alone. And thank God for that. :)
I will continue to jiayou, be responsible, and keep my spirits up!
To be honest, I didn't think that I deserved a B+ in the first place (I didn't feel that I have done enough). But then again, to be downgraded all the way to a C... hmm... I was actually thinking, oops, there goes my renovation budget for next year! :(
But then I go back to my motto of thanking God for giving me enough rewards to keep me motivated, and enough setbacks to keep me down to earth and grounded. And I know that whenever I fall, I pick myself up fast and bounce back stronger and wiser.
I also read a good statement today: being obedient doesn't mean the end of adversity. In the same way, I am not going to expect that life will be all rosy and smooth. But I do have faith that I won't lack anything or be alone. And thank God for that. :)
I will continue to jiayou, be responsible, and keep my spirits up!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
10th attempt at sharing
Seems like eons ago that I last did a sharing of what I learnt from the sermon... shall attempt to pick it up again!
Today's sermon about right and wrong and sticking to the truth is quite close to my heart. I recall Sis describing me as someone who lives by principles (ok - maybe too much principles!! ^ ^) but that's because I always believe that unlike choosing what kind of clothes to wear or what to eat, some things are clearly right or clearly wrong. To differentiate between right from wrong, we must base it on the truth. This truth is in fact timeless instructions from God that are taught to us through the Bible. It is not based on convenience, nor on what is cultural acceptable or prevalently practised at a certain point in time.
Just like how God is the same God since the beginning to the end, the truth is the same truth that is being told thousands of years ago.
Ok, before you (or whoever is reading this!) think that I am trying to be holy or rigid or whatever-it-is, am going to clarify that I am certainly not trying to pretend to be a saint! I face the same daily struggles and temptations like any man/woman on the street and am a sinner just like everyone else.
Thing is, like I said, I really want to learn how to properly walk with God instead of just merely saying that yes I am a Christian. And to do it the right way, I have to go towards the correct direction as set out by God, and not by what man defines/interprets/justifies as right or wrong. Otherwise, I will be like a super enthusiastic person going at full speed but using a compass that changes every sec.
Imagine...
Me (exhausted) to the Compass: So this is the way to the East, right? I have been following this direction the whole day... how come I am getting nowhere near my destination????
Compass: Hmm.... let me see... No, this is only the East in the morning... East is this other way now...
Me: What the...??? Are you trying to be funny??!!
Compass: No... that's what everyone is saying now mah...
Me: @^#*$&*#($&#*
Think you get the picture. :>
Today's sermon about right and wrong and sticking to the truth is quite close to my heart. I recall Sis describing me as someone who lives by principles (ok - maybe too much principles!! ^ ^) but that's because I always believe that unlike choosing what kind of clothes to wear or what to eat, some things are clearly right or clearly wrong. To differentiate between right from wrong, we must base it on the truth. This truth is in fact timeless instructions from God that are taught to us through the Bible. It is not based on convenience, nor on what is cultural acceptable or prevalently practised at a certain point in time.
Just like how God is the same God since the beginning to the end, the truth is the same truth that is being told thousands of years ago.
Ok, before you (or whoever is reading this!) think that I am trying to be holy or rigid or whatever-it-is, am going to clarify that I am certainly not trying to pretend to be a saint! I face the same daily struggles and temptations like any man/woman on the street and am a sinner just like everyone else.
Thing is, like I said, I really want to learn how to properly walk with God instead of just merely saying that yes I am a Christian. And to do it the right way, I have to go towards the correct direction as set out by God, and not by what man defines/interprets/justifies as right or wrong. Otherwise, I will be like a super enthusiastic person going at full speed but using a compass that changes every sec.
Imagine...
Me (exhausted) to the Compass: So this is the way to the East, right? I have been following this direction the whole day... how come I am getting nowhere near my destination????
Compass: Hmm.... let me see... No, this is only the East in the morning... East is this other way now...
Me: What the...??? Are you trying to be funny??!!
Compass: No... that's what everyone is saying now mah...
Me: @^#*$&*#($&#*
Think you get the picture. :>
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Long time no update.... :p
Always start out switching on the comp to blog but always end up checking FB, checking mails, doing 101 things and then forgetting what I want to write or getting too sleepy.
Things have been pretty hectic at work. That aside, have been trying to work hard at equipping myself for the role at children's ministry - practising piano as much as I can (small progress but still a long way to go!), reading the book that Vivien lent me (finally completed it this evening!) and reading the Bible. Maybe it's because I feel that I am so not qualified to help out yet, and want to really want to build up on my Bible knowledge. And the more I read, the more I want to learn (cos there's like endless teachings inside!) So, sometimes can get frustrated and impatient... but then am reminded that the Lord is good and all He is asking for is obedience and faith. :>
So, in summary, am learning tons and tons, and it's taking loads and loads of effort, but I know that it's really really worth it! ^ ^ Am keeping the faith and reminding myself to focus on Jesus! :)
Things have been pretty hectic at work. That aside, have been trying to work hard at equipping myself for the role at children's ministry - practising piano as much as I can (small progress but still a long way to go!), reading the book that Vivien lent me (finally completed it this evening!) and reading the Bible. Maybe it's because I feel that I am so not qualified to help out yet, and want to really want to build up on my Bible knowledge. And the more I read, the more I want to learn (cos there's like endless teachings inside!) So, sometimes can get frustrated and impatient... but then am reminded that the Lord is good and all He is asking for is obedience and faith. :>
So, in summary, am learning tons and tons, and it's taking loads and loads of effort, but I know that it's really really worth it! ^ ^ Am keeping the faith and reminding myself to focus on Jesus! :)
Monday, October 18, 2010
Dress search completed!
Although technically Hwei said that I could wear my existing blue dress as her jiemei dress, which normal girl would pass up the opportunity to shop for new dresses especially when all other jiemeis have bought new dresses too?!?!
And so I spent a while (yes, just a little while) on Sunday taking a really casual walk along Marina Square (really casual). Spotted two dresses that might fit the dress requirement. The first one is the "tiffany" coloured one, and the second one is quite similar to my existing blue dress.
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Decided on the second one in the end because the cut looks nicer. Although the colour is almost the same as my existing one, there is a subtle difference! V neck spaghetti strap vs cross-back straight neck.
The best thing is, there is also a huge discount and unlike the jiemei dress I've bought for Sis' wedding, this is one dress that I will definitely wear it again.
Ahaha. Heaven knows how happy a girl can be when she finds a good buy! :D
And so I spent a while (yes, just a little while) on Sunday taking a really casual walk along Marina Square (really casual). Spotted two dresses that might fit the dress requirement. The first one is the "tiffany" coloured one, and the second one is quite similar to my existing blue dress.
.jpg)
Decided on the second one in the end because the cut looks nicer. Although the colour is almost the same as my existing one, there is a subtle difference! V neck spaghetti strap vs cross-back straight neck.
The best thing is, there is also a huge discount and unlike the jiemei dress I've bought for Sis' wedding, this is one dress that I will definitely wear it again.
Ahaha. Heaven knows how happy a girl can be when she finds a good buy! :D
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
You know that he is your husband...
... if he can sense your presence 8-storeys away and when he looks up and sees you looking down at him silently, he gets up from the pool immediately, scurries to the lift, and voila appears at the door in less than 3 minutes because he knows that you want to have your dinner now.
hahahahahah. :>
hahahahahah. :>
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Lessons learnt
During my work review with J a few days ago, I was sharing with her that my one-month break really helped me put a lot of things into perspective. Was a bit taken aback when she asked me what exactly I have learnt cos I thought bosses in general, erm, don't really have an indepth interest in these kind of things... like they'd only nod nod and say, "really? good for you." then proceed to discuss next year's targets etc.
Anyway, it was a good question because it made me want to write down the lessons learnt, so that I will always remember them.
So here goes (not in order of priority):
#1: Everyday can be a holiday, if you learn how to slow down and look at things in an appreciative, fascinated manner. You know how things are always so "wow, cool!" when you go on a holiday, and then you want to snap down everything you have seen? Well, if you learn to look at the things around you in that perspective, you will find that even a journey from the carpark to the office is quite "wow, cool!".
#2: Remember to love in every sense. "We love because God first loved us". Love your life by stay healthy mentally, emotionally, and physically. Spend time reading the bible, praying and finding that inner peace. Quit activities that are damaging to your health. Love your family by spending quality time with them. Never, never, never let work take priority in your life. You have to be responsible at work, but you also have to be responsible towards your family. Love your friends by giving encouragement and support. Help those in need!
#3: Listen, really. I was reading the marriage communication book (loaned from church) during my break. There is a lot of good stuff in the book and one important lesson is to learn to listen without interrupting or prejudice in your heart. Have patience, and be kind in your words even during disagreements. Affirm one annother instead. There is really no need to win every argument, if you have already win the heart and respect of the other.
#4: Don't take yourself so seriously, cos... nobody else is taking you THAT seriously. Be yourself, be goofy if you wish, and laugh heartily! :) Have positive self-talk at all times!
#5: Life is beautiful, despite occasions which may have indicated otherwise. There is so much more to be cherished and appreciated in life than to dwell on incidents which have been less than pleasant. Look at the sky, smell the air, feel the sunshine. Life IS beautiful. :)
Anyway, it was a good question because it made me want to write down the lessons learnt, so that I will always remember them.
So here goes (not in order of priority):
#1: Everyday can be a holiday, if you learn how to slow down and look at things in an appreciative, fascinated manner. You know how things are always so "wow, cool!" when you go on a holiday, and then you want to snap down everything you have seen? Well, if you learn to look at the things around you in that perspective, you will find that even a journey from the carpark to the office is quite "wow, cool!".
#2: Remember to love in every sense. "We love because God first loved us". Love your life by stay healthy mentally, emotionally, and physically. Spend time reading the bible, praying and finding that inner peace. Quit activities that are damaging to your health. Love your family by spending quality time with them. Never, never, never let work take priority in your life. You have to be responsible at work, but you also have to be responsible towards your family. Love your friends by giving encouragement and support. Help those in need!
#3: Listen, really. I was reading the marriage communication book (loaned from church) during my break. There is a lot of good stuff in the book and one important lesson is to learn to listen without interrupting or prejudice in your heart. Have patience, and be kind in your words even during disagreements. Affirm one annother instead. There is really no need to win every argument, if you have already win the heart and respect of the other.
#4: Don't take yourself so seriously, cos... nobody else is taking you THAT seriously. Be yourself, be goofy if you wish, and laugh heartily! :) Have positive self-talk at all times!
#5: Life is beautiful, despite occasions which may have indicated otherwise. There is so much more to be cherished and appreciated in life than to dwell on incidents which have been less than pleasant. Look at the sky, smell the air, feel the sunshine. Life IS beautiful. :)
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
bon courage!
It's been a month since I've started my French lessons at Alliance and although my vocab has somewhat expanded, I am not making as much progress as I'd like to. Having said, that's the problem with most "leisure" courses... yes, you pay the money, but no you don't want to spend too much effort. Afterall, it's a course that you take for recreation purposes.
BUT! I am not called 尽责 or nerdball or whatever-it-is these days for nothing. I have made up my mind that I'm gonna work real hard to polish up my French. My ultimate goal is to speak as well as a native speaker.... in 5 years' time? Not a very ambitious goal but at least I'm working towards something!
SO! My plan is to do self-study after work... or at least on days where I don't have to rush out speeches/admin programmes etc etc or go out for dinner with friends/family. I foresee that my life is going to be a real busy one... cos I've also said that I will exercise more to stay healthy and fit. And I will study the bible every night before I sleep. Plus, have also signed myself (and Mr. Jang) up for the church's children/youth ministry. Not sure if we will be assigned anything but am quite keen to do more in this area. :D
Life is short, so am making my time here as meaningful as possible.... by concrete actions and not just by saying only like what I used to do! Allez bon courage! Pas pour mon propre honneur, mais pour le Votre!
BUT! I am not called 尽责 or nerdball or whatever-it-is these days for nothing. I have made up my mind that I'm gonna work real hard to polish up my French. My ultimate goal is to speak as well as a native speaker.... in 5 years' time? Not a very ambitious goal but at least I'm working towards something!
SO! My plan is to do self-study after work... or at least on days where I don't have to rush out speeches/admin programmes etc etc or go out for dinner with friends/family. I foresee that my life is going to be a real busy one... cos I've also said that I will exercise more to stay healthy and fit. And I will study the bible every night before I sleep. Plus, have also signed myself (and Mr. Jang) up for the church's children/youth ministry. Not sure if we will be assigned anything but am quite keen to do more in this area. :D
Life is short, so am making my time here as meaningful as possible.... by concrete actions and not just by saying only like what I used to do! Allez bon courage! Pas pour mon propre honneur, mais pour le Votre!
Friday, October 1, 2010
back-up model
Stood in as a back-up model for Lil's course assignment cos the original model was on MC. And yes, that's how I earn a scoop of ice-cream. Yum Yum Yum. If only I can do this full time. Haha. :D
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