To Rekindle Friendship

It was quite an eventful day on wednesday. As i was rushing out of the office to a friend's place, i bumped into a friend whom i have not kept in touch for several years. We were both surprised to see eachother.

It was a friend whom i knew since school days, someone who made me laugh, encouraged me, but well, also at the same time, made me pissed off and irritated with. It was also this close friend of mine that brought me to church, something which i am very thankful and grateful of.

Unfortunatedly, due to certain reasons, we grew apart 5 years back. Deep down in my heart, i have always felt very bad and apologetic over it. I know i owe this friend an explanation.But at that time, i had little choice.

I remembered during that time, i avoided his calls. I think it's me and i hate this bad habit and character of mine. I tend to run away from things, afraid to face the situation and reality. But i am glad i have improved greatly in this area. I have learnt to come face to face with reality and learnt how to handle it. It's not easy .... u need to have the strength and courage. I guess it's just me. I'm not the confrontational type of person.

1.5 years back, i remember one of my galfriends said he asked about me and another dear friend. But at that time, it was a very tough period. I was helping my dear friend go through a very bad batch of her life. This friend got to know about it and told my galfriend that he will not 'contact or disturb' us. But i know he cares for us and were praying for us.

I was telling some friends this evening that i believe God has certain reasons for allowing me to bump into this friend again. I guess this is THE time. Perhaps if
it was 2 or 3 years back, i am not sure if i am ready to face him. But now, very strangely ... i don't feel the burden, stress, fear and heavy load in my heart anymore.

Lately, i have been feeling that God wants me to catch up , maintain and rekindle friendship & relationship with some old friends. And i know who they are. Whatelse can i say but hey, i look forward to catching up with some old friends, and continue with the journey from where we had stopped/paused. Perhaps, the journey/relationship with them have never once stopped. It's for me to find out!

Discovering Sembawang

Singapore is such a small place and i believe many of us always complian that it's either boring or well, there are not many places to go. One place which i will like to recommend is Sembawang. It's an area which i hardly go to .... coz. well, the truth is that there are no reasons why i should be there. I have very few friends who are staying at the far-north. I only know one who's at Woodlands and another couple who's staying in Sembawang.

It's an interesting place with lots to offer and discover. I was there yesterday morning with my colleagues and boss. We had a good time in the car talking about our fond memories of Sembawang and of course, the topic always ends up with food.

- FIRST STOP - SEMBAWANG COUNTRY CLUB -
The reason why we came to Sembawang yesterday morning was actually to visit Sembawang Country Club. We were going to host an event there and came to recee the golf course. I've been to some country clubs recently due to work but it's actually my first time at this club.

First of all, it was quite a scenic drive from upper thomson road. There was a stretch of road which was surrounded by lots of trees and nature. It was quite a breath-taking sight.

It was also only yesterday do i know that in the old days, the course was built by the British Royal Marines right in their own backyard, so to speak, in their camp for their own enjoyment. The airfore base is still there, taken over by the Singapore Armed Forces, who also manages the "Sembawang Country Club".

As explained by the staff, the club is one of the safest in Singapore. I wonder what he meant. Firstly, only SAF staff are allowed to be members of the club. And secondly, it is very near to Nee Soon Camp (just 1.2km away). OK ... now i understand.

The club is also known as the "Commando Course" as it is hilly and undulating with narrow fairways. The staff at the club also took us around the course in a buggy. Reminds me of the wonderful time when i was at the Vines Golf Resort in Perth some years back.



- SECOND STOP - SEMBAWANG PARK -
Most of us hardly go to Sembawang Park. I've only been there once several years back. And since we were near the park, we decided to check the place out. We saw squariels at one of the trees near the carpark.



Sembawang Park is a tranquil park with distinct blue dice design and it faces the Johore straits.The park has interesting links to the naval history of Singapore; the Beaulieu House, the Sembawang jetty and the remains of the 1920s Seletar Pier still stand in the park, reflecting the past.





The Sembawang Shipyard to the west of the park was a British Naval Base from 1938 to 1968. My colleague pointed the shipyard excitedly when we passed by. Well, she used to work there for many years. The park is also surrounded by other places of historical interest like the Admiralty House, Kampong Wak Hassan, Masjid Petempatan Melayu Sembawang and Sembawang memorial.

Original plan was to have lunch at Belieau House at the park. The seaside house served as residence for Senior Fleet Officers in the past. But there was a change of plans. Boss said that in the past, Belieau House serves chinese food. But seems that they have now changed it to western which boss wasn't keen. So recommended boss to this restaurant called Buckaroos which is across the stree (at Andrews Ave). Unfortunatedly, it was closed for lunch.

One of the places which i have always wanted to check it out is this place called Bottle Village. But i wasn't sure where it is. So i was excited when i saw the sign at the junction of the road. So change of plans, we decided to check out Bottle Village instead. I was surprise that none of my colleagues have heard about this place.

- THIRD STOP - BOTTLE TREE VILLAGE -


This little-known weekend haunt has a lovely seaside resort feel to it.The Bottle Tree Village is the brainchild of Mr Alex Neo, who was so fascinated by the Bottle Trees that he saw in Australia that he just had to have some of them shipped over to Singapore. The Village which occupies the former Sembawang Sea Sports Centre is now home to 6 of these Bottle Trees, also known as Brachychiton rupestris which are native to south-west Queensland in Australia. Each tree cost $30,000.



Two of the oldest and largest of the bottle trees (named after the bottle-like shape of its trunk) now in Singapore are more than 100 years old and it takes about four adults, holding hands, to hug the tree. A mature bottle tree can grow up to 12 metres tall.



Apart from bottle trees, grass trees, giant ferns and palms, also imported from Australia can be seen around the Bottle Tree Village.

I had lunch there and the view is quite nice as the decked area overlooks the Johor Straits. The only flipside to this idyllic escape, is that Bottle Tree Village is tucked far away off Sembawang Road.



Well, it was quite an enjoyable morning .... a good break from being in the office with endless meetings.

Cheryl's Birthday Celebration

Our cg held a belated birthday celebration for my dear shepherd, Cheryl. The birthday gal cooked for us and we had a good time talking about our first impression of her. As usual and always, we had a great time.

Happy Birthday to the one and only unique and special Cheryl :) My dear friend, sister and shepherd. You're a great inspiration!

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Another year older, a year of living in the light of the Lord,
A time of changing, a time of growing,
A time of learning to use His Sword

Maturing more as the days go on,
Telling others what Christ has taught you,
Touching hearts as you travel along,
Living love - we can see Him in you.

A miracle is working there in your heart,
A new beginning, He changed you right from the start,
And now you know that there is no turning back,
The grace of God you will never lack.

You're a picture of what our great Redeemer can do,
When you walk in His love, you make an excellent view,
You are changing on the inside, it's really plain to see,
Like a stranger to this world - living for eternity,
Committed to our Saviour, you are resting in His hands,
He planned your future long ago, before your life began.

Oh, delight yourself forever in the living Lord,
Wait on His gracious love and receive His Word,
Taste and see how good our God is,
He is awe-inspiring and His name is Jesus!

He is your refuge when your times get tough,
His provision will always be enough,
Your steps are directed by the Father of lights,
Trust fully in Him, your future is bright.

Shine out, my friend, and show them the way,
Light up the darkness, hold the shadows at bay,
Free the captives, as Christ has freed you,
Tell others the wonders of what our God can do.

Praise God and live a life pleasing to Him,
Lift up your voice and let your heart sing,
Seek the Lord's guidance and live in His will,
Come before Jesus and learn to be still.

Though this life seems so hard and you may fail sometimes,
Get on Hind's feet - there are still mountains to climb,
When you reach the highest peak, there will be joy without end,
God will say, "Well done, My servant and friend."

Z is for Zecharias

When i first heard that Lynette & MingFeng's baby boy would be called Zecharias, i was caught by surprise. I thought it was quite a "cheam hebrew" name. But on second thoughts, i think it's pretty nice and unqiue. It means 'The Lord Rememberd'. I like the short form too. Which is Zec or Zac (well ...depending on how his mommy and daddy wants to spell it).

Congrats and well, a picture of Zecharias can be seen on Jeff's blog.

A huge group of us visited Lynette in the hospital yesterday nite and well, she is looking good and cool about it. Enjoy motherhood lyn.

Adults Camp 007

This year's church camp is quite enjoyable for me despite the fact that most of my 'kawans' were not around as they've attended the family camp. As what Pastor Jeff mentioned, well .... my whole unit moved to the family group in the early part of the year due to changes in life-station. So the 4 of us : Thye Bao, Galvin, Cecilia and yours truly joined NG8C1 during the camp instead. It was also a great opportunity to get to know new friends and catch up with old pals as well. Thanks to Dee, Jay, Jon, Anne, Peishan, Albert & Mark for having us around in the group. And also, the fun-loving gals aka my lovely room-mates, Reina and Miriam. And not forgetting Cara & Pat, who always stopped by and asked if i was ok (since my whole unit is not around).

Pastor Jeff & Pastor Simon's teachings were really inspiring. And i enjoyed the workshop: EQ & Effective Relationship Skills in particular (taught by Elaine, YingFang & Kelly). Theme Nite was the most fun although it does seem to me to be quite a chaos and messy initially. And it was quite surprising to see Pastor Jeff & Claudia dressed as students and he later, also acted as Cinderalla. The mafia group headed by Pris & Victor (Cara's sub-d which i was under) was the winning team. It was no surprise coz. well, i thought we were pretty cool. Can't help it but the song still lingers in my head.

I personally think that this church camp is one of the most organised camps which i have ever attended. In away, it was quite professionally runned. The food was much better as compared to the last camp, the timing of the program were good, there were new fun elements added in such as chosing the best photo of the day and summary of the day by the drama team. The transport arrangements were tidy too. The only thing which i thought which could be improved upon is the technical part of things (sound). And when it comes to triple-sharing, appreciate if the hotel don't just give us extra mattress (without the base).

Melaka .... the best thing about coming to this historical town besides the camp is of course FOOD. Managed to go back to the same chendol/laksa place @ jonker street and had nonya food twice. Once at Nonya Suan and the other, at Ole Sayang. Thankfully, both are within walking distance from the hotel.

For this camp, it's good to know that Gal & Cecilia decided to attend the church camp despite the fact that they just returned from their honeymoon. And also, it's very encouraging to know that that Cecilia enjoyed the camp. Hey, thanks for the card which you gave me. Appreciate it alot! May you have a closer walk with God and experience many spiritual breakthroughs in your life.

The camp also reminded me of several areas:
- (1 Cor 15:58) Always give yourself fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
- on the importance of being a word-centered person
- to be involved and get into the "game"
- to grow in terms of leadership

What else can i say but well, it'll be an exciting journey. Will be a good start for the next phase.

Choir

A fun-loving bunch of people serving together last sunday.



Photo taken by Jo.

Feelings

It has been a very frustrating time for me last month and i knew i was in 'trouble' deep down when i felt that i was 'running away from certain things'. Life was like a complete stand-still and there were things which i was angry and upset about. I guess i was angry and upset abt myself too. It also felt as if the evil spirit was trying all ways to put me down. But i am glad that i perceived and my faith in God has sustained and pulled me through. God never fails!

I was over ambitious with certain things. I had tried to pile myself with the load thinking that i could cope, telling myself that it was possible. But i couldn't. When i finally had to let go, it was tough because i was really disappointed with myself. Just afew days back, i had lunch with a friend and she asked me this: "What are u trying to prove to yourself?" I wonder too. I should have known better in the first place.

There were also things which up to now, i wonder if i should give up. But i am also quite unwilling to because i feel the heart-ache and pain. It's as if by giving up, i should have never started in the first place. And i've asked myself several times ... that perhaps if i've made more effort in the area intially, i could have
possibly see the results now. Another dillemma ... another disappointment. Haven't i heard .... if it's not God's will, than it's not. Sigh!

Time flies .. and there were certain things which i should action upon but somehow, nothing was done. I guess i was tired and caught up with the daily routines. So, now is the time and i am glad God has send various 'reminders' to me in his own ways. And yeap, I think i am ready now.

So, i guess this week will be a good week for me as i head to Malacca for the annual church camp. A time to seek God, a time to refresh my heart and a good start for the next 6 months. It's gonna be exciting and it'll be a good time to catch up with some friends as well.

Choir Twins

When i reached Nexus this morning ... it was really funny. Angela & Zann said that they have another pair of "twins". Oh .... they meant this. Ha ha! Check out the pix and you'll know why. We have the "Twins In Pink"& "Twins In Fushia". Ok ... actually there were other sets of twins that came later. Anyway, it's nice to be serving in choir on sun service today again after missing the session last month. It has always been very ministering personally, and also, great to minister to others off-stage. One of life's greatest joy .... coz. u never know who's life will be touched.

Ah Liang's Wedding

Jeremiah 31:3 "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving kindness".

耶 利 米 书 31:3 "我 以 永 远 的 爱 爱 你 ， 因 此 我 以 慈 爱 吸 引 你 "







Yesterday was my cousin Patrick aka Ah Liang's wedding. Like some of my family members say, it's family gathering again. Nothing unusual as we meet very often. It was a chinese church wedding held at Ang Mo Kio Methodist Church where my cousin & cousin-in-law, Huishan worships.

Both are serving in choir and Pastor Fong shared to us how they got together. Pastor shared that in the earlier days, both huishan and Ah liang would often meet at the coffeeshop near the church for kopi. But on many occassions, my cousin had to rush through his 'kopi session' as he need to leave early for choir practices. Thus, he always doesn''t have sufficient time to get to know her better.

So when the Pastor knew later that my cousin was interested in huishan, he created opportunities for them to spend more time together by inviting her to join choir. In a way, they could also serve together in ministry as well. Not a problem for Huishan as she is a chinese teacher, she loves to sing and her mandarin is really powerful (chinese choir). And well, like what most would say ... the rest is history.

To come to think of it, i think singing runs in my family. My dad, cousins,cousin-in-law, aunties and grand-auntie are all serving in choir. Some in churches while others in school alumni. My dad and aunties are definedly more 'pro' than me. They have been trained under professional instructors for many years and have performed overseas, Esplanade & Victoria Concert Hall be it in group or solo basis. Candice has also held her own recital and some of her friends from her batch has made it big in Singapore. No kiddin. Me ..... does performing in Singapore Expo counts? Ha ha!

Johnathon, my nephew (cousin's son) ...the mischevious ringbearer looking extremly handsome in his outfit.



The bride & groom with choir singing 2 chinese christian songs for their guests. One unqiue thing is that for P & W, they even had a hokkien christian song. It's actually quite nice. But none of them are actually hokkien. One is teochew and the ither hakka.



And my cousin was really nervous .. very unlike him. He couldn't find his thank u speech. The bride even had to help him search for it infront of everyone. Ha ha!



Family picture ... but this is not the full strength. Some did not attend the solemnisation.



Huishan and her students from ACS. I think her classes must be really fun coz. she's a very jovial person. Her students must have loved her alot.



Church Wedding. Decorations all done by the cousins gang (minus me) who was at choir practice.





David, BJ, Mom & Esther. The world is really small. David & BJ is my mom's bosses. Esther who is my cousin is David & BJ good friend and church mates since young. And David happens to be under my small uncle, ricky's platoon when he is called to go back for reservist.



Lynn & Me



Tea Ceremony in church after the reception. Well, we are all surprised that grandma came well-prepared. Besides the angbao, there's jewellery as well. I wonder who brought her to buy.



Posing for the camera before second march-in.



Family picture ... but will wait for the one which Darren took. That is more complete ... all was present except Raymond & family who's posted to Taiwan, Benjamin who's studying in Australia, Sean and Cindy plus MengXiong side.



Weijun, Lynn & Me. (The 3 Miss Tan).



We also threw a surprise birthday celebration for my auntie after the wedding dinner. Her surprise birthday was organsied by her 3 sons.



My auntie with my 3 cousins.



Anyway, i'm proud of my family and i love each and everyone of them. My greatest wish is that all of them will come to know the Lord someday.

Scenery @ Workplace

Took this picture two weeks ago when i just shifted into the new office. One of those things which u're do when u are totally bored. I think i couldn't access to emails that morning coz. my IT guys were still fixing up the server. Yeap .. this is the view which i get everyday @ work.

Life Is Short

I had a chat with my colleague, G.O yesterday and she asked if i could remember this particular ex-colleague of hers whom we met at the airport. Well, i could because G.O introduced me to him. And i thought he must be quite a fun-loving guy coz. he was smiling and laughing alot. We met him at the departure gate, just before we boarded the flight to Osaka.

And the funny thing was that we met him again upon arrival at Changi - at the arrival gate. He was holding a signage at that time and was giving instructions to transit passengers. Both my colleague and him were really surprised to see eachother again and both burst into laughter.

That was the first and last time i saw him. Thus, i was completly stunned when G.O told me that he died 2 days ago. How could it be? It was just 3 weeks ago and he seems ok. He died in his sleep and he was just in his 30s. G.O said that all these years, this guy seems always tired and could "sleep" even when he was tearing boarding pass. Wow ...

It just reminded me at that very moment how vulnerable life can be. One moment the person is just standing infront of you, and next .... he's gone. Reminds me to have proper and sufficient rest too. And not push myself beyond the limits too often.

Weddings

Seems that lots of couples are getting married these few weeks. I suppose the dates must have been rather auspicious. Last sat was Galvin & Cecilia's wedding. At the same time, mom & dad also attended a wedding dinner on the same nite.

Today is my cousin Patrick's wedding. I was also invited to attend a friend's wedding but had to turn it down. And next month is Fiona's wedding.

Talking about weddings, lots of friends have been asking me to be a wedding planner as a profession since i'm handed and helped out in countless weddings. Hmm ... maybe i should seriously think about it. Ha ha!

Dreams

It has been awhile since i woke up feeling scared and errie. Well, i was this morning. Had some scary and errie dream which i don't even want to type it down. Gives me the creep. So glad that i was woken up by the alarm.