Christmas Dinner @ Sheraton Subang

Before the dinner, Justin and Meng Hong came to pick my sis and I up. Dad was in his cameraman mood as usual so we took a couple of shots. Some inside the home. Some outside. Love the outside shots.

Last night was a blast. As it was every year, the church will organise a Christmas Dinner. Last night was slightly different due to a number of reasons. Firstly I had the privilege of 2 of my best buds attending the dinner with me namely Yom Sharina and Pritam. It was sweet.

We had performances by several people. Enjoyed this the item shared by 2 of my youths, Su Ann and Abel. Can't exactly remember the lyrics of the song but simply loved the ambience as they sat by the staircase of the stage and sang their lungs out.

And then my all time favourite was Uncle Larry....

There was another "stunt" that night which was unusual. Basically 4 dudes, 3 were Africans and one so called Malaysia black. Behold the stunt.

The food was relatively ok. Suffered from gastric though hence making the evening a tad bit unpleasant. Thank God for friends on the table to chit chat with. I felt really enjoyed the evening. It was sweet.

The evening ended with our usual photo taking session. Guess having a dad that loves taking pics has made it such a norm to pose in front of the camera.

Definitely a night to remember.

Tomorrow's Christmas!!!!

Family Dinner @ Chilis

Nope, they aint brothers...

Fajita filling

Lamb chop

Friends since high school

Picture of Us

Meng Chern feeding dad =P

One's mouth cant be that big to fit this...

Isn't he just adorable???

Nachos - the best in town

Group Pic (without dad)

Summary => Great time PIGGING OUT!!!!

Another day coming to an end....

From the title above, you would think it's a good thing. Well not with the deadline getting nearer and the work still substantially not done.

Worked through lunch only to realise that my tummy was empty when about 4 plus I felt pukey and went to the toilet to throw up mostly air and I think abit of coffee. At around half past 4, my colleague and I decided we needed a quick break so ventured downstairs to the sundry shop. Bought Mamee to fill the tummy. Still coughing like nobody's business.

Discoveries of the day:
(a) I badly need a massage. Actually badly need sleep but that is near impossible so why bother mentioning, right?
(b) Mum messaged and told me she wants to buy me a dress for Christmas Dinner. So very sweet of her. She volunteered to pick and since she has better taste than me, I think it's a brilliant idea.
(c) I miss my family and friends.
(d) Messaged my manager today asking him whether it's ok if I hand up my work after camp giving time to work during camp (though that is not exactly an ideal plan). He said ok to my relief. Now need to compile and pick on my client's brains before I leave Sg.Petani.
(e) An S1's scope in EY is different from that in PwC.
(f) I look so "chan". I mean I noticed that the last 2 days but today when I stared at myself, I was shocked. Hopefully hubby has enough money for me to pay for cosmetics and spa treatments. If not, I am doomed =(
(g) Ugliness is very subjective. A friend sent me a pic of a guy she was ranting about being ugly. When I opened the pic, I had a hard time trying to figure out which part of him was ugly till he deserved the continous complaint.

Hopefully tomorrow will be better. If not, at least I have something to look forward to in the evening. And since my battery charger fiused, I can't be working on my laptop for more than an hour. Maybe it's God's way of giving me a break for a night.

Well that's it for the day. Back to Purchases and Payments controls testing and more AR.

Feel like fainting....

Slept at 3am plus. Didn't sleep well as had too much caffeine inside my body. Been working straight non stop since morning. Only time I drank any form of liquid was during lunch - "suit cha". Toilet break - twice. Computer hanged - 2 times (i think). Tummy feels a little bit painful. Sigh. God, I can't wait till Friday evening. Friend is coming to visit me. Yippee....A familiar face finally. Trying very hard to finish my work so I will have time on Saturday evening to pack for camp and just do minor touch ups to my work. Need to upload to the office server on Sunday before church means have to wake up early on Sunday and drive all the way to D'sara Heights.

Highlights of the day:
(a) Best friend 1 called me and told me that her boyfriend and her have decided to do some business for extra income. And if it goes well, she will quit her job permanently in2 years time.
(b) Best friend 2 was commenting that audit firms are no place for pregnant women. Totally agree.
(c) Best friend 3 was commenting that I need to relax and not force myself to work. Is that even remotely possible?
(4) Youth pastor (not sure which one though as it was online and he/she didn't tell me which one he/she is) asked me for updates. **wink**wink**None whatsoever.

My current desire at this very moment is to take a warm shower.........to stand (or sit) in the bathtub and let the water run thru my hair all the way down to my toes. If I could scream, that would be a bonus.

Back to work. Got a whole load to do. Kill me.......if you have no solution. Hug me.....if you love me. Hug me like you really feel for me. I'm not even hungry. Just so need to sleep.

The Layer Tag

Presently doing this to destress....hopefully it works.

Layer ONE : On the Outside
Name : Grace Eu Swee Leng
Birthdate : 3rd November 1981
Current Status : Single and availability is subjective
Eye Color : Dark Brown
Hair Color : Dark Brown
Righty or Lefty : A definite right handed person
Zodiac Sign : A mysterious Scorpio

Layer TWO : On the Inside
Your heritage : Full of professionals ie lawyers/ engineers/ accountants
Your fears : Pain and sickness
Your weakness : Sometimes short tempered lor
Your perfect pizza : Island Supreme from Pizza Hut

Layer THREE : Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow
Your first thoughts when waking up in the morning : I wish I didn't have to work.
Your bedtime : Depends whether I have to work or not.
Your most missed memory : Walking in the park with someone I cannot be with.

Layer FOUR : Your Pick
Pepsi or Coke : Coke gua.
Mcdonalds or Burger King : Definitely McDs.
Single or group dates : Depends.
Adidas or Nike : Nike.
Lipton Tea or Nestea : Lipton.
Chocolate or Vanilla : Chocolate.
Cappucino or Coffee : Cappucino.

Layer FIVE
Do you smoke : Never.
Curse : No.
Take a shower : Don't be an idiot, of course I do.
Have a crush : As in now....crush would mean feelings for someone but depth undetermined right? If that is the case then yes gua.
Think you've been in love : Yes.
Go to school : Not now dy.
Want to get married : Yes.
Believe in yourself : I have my moments.
Think you're a health freak : If I say yes to this, I will get stoned for lying publicly.

Layer SIX : In the past month
Drank alcohol : Took a sip of Pritam's cocktail in Fridays. Didn't like it. Generally I don't drink. Don't like the taste and prefer not to be on middle ground in these matters.
Gone to the mall : Yes.
Been on stage : As in walked on the stage then yes. Every Sunday when I do offering =)
Eaten sushi : Sigh. No. So miss it.
Dyed your hair : Nope.

Layer SEVEN : Have you ever?
Played a stripping game : Yes.
Changed who you were to fit in : I think when I was younger I did.

Layer EIGHT :
Age you're hoping to get married : 27 years old.

Layer NINE : In a guy
Best eye colour : Dark brown.
Best hair colour : Brown or black.
Long or short hair : Definitely short . ( a special note to Yoyo).

Layer TEN : What were you doing....
1 minute ago : answering the tag
1 hour ago : Working.
4.5 hours ago : Working.
1 month ago : Was in church actually.
1 year ago : Working in Seremban.

Layer ELEVEN : Finish the sentence
I love : potatoes
I feel : stressed
I hate : work sometimes.
I hide : my fears.
I miss : at the moment too numb to miss anyone.
I need : some sleep.

Back to work.

A different view from Sg Petani

I arrived in Penang around 9 plus last night. Boy, were we starving. Had a quick bite at New Lane before heading to my colleague's place in Kampung Melayu to spend the night.

We arrived at my client's place in Sg Petani this morning. What can I say? It's full of paddy fields and terribly peaceful. To say life here is different would be an understatement. However, it's a good change.

Still recovering from a horrid flu. Client's place is awfully cold. I am freezing here. Sigh. This is not the ideal environment to get well. Badly want to get well as I want to be able to enjoy camp and technically it's difficult to teach and pray for others when one is on medication.

Have yet to check into the hotel. Guess it should be ok. It has a bowling alley next to it. Not that I am a bowling fan. Can't bowl even if you paid me to =P

Missing my bed very much. While in Penang yesterday and early this morning, I am reminded why I love it so much. Love water and the scenery. Gives me a feeling that words can't possibly describe. Water does mesmerize me in some ways. Makes me step back and take stock about what counts in life.

I asked my colleague whether it's true that Penangnites don't appreciate the sea as much as us outsiders do cos they had it with them all their lives. She said yes. Haahaahaaa.....we're always like that, I suppose. We only appreciate something/ someone when it/ he/ she is not around us often. Absence makes the heart grow fonder huh?

I think I could be bias but if I had the opportunity to be mesmerized by the sea every day, I would go for it if not for the lack of time. Silly people to live on an island and yet take it for granted. I would buy a condo overlooking the sea and just bask in its beauty.

Rather tired dy. Been working non-stop the whole day. Tonight is another long night working at the hotel and looking through camp stuff. Quite looking forward to it. Bet the rest of the youths are. Hope they are la cos the comm has been working their butts off.

Ok, it's back to work. Can't wait till Sat. Possibly the only duh thing is I am so near Penang yet I can't go to the beach =(

But I am reminded yet again that absence makes the heart grow fonder.

An exciting ride ahead

Today I woke up feeling like I could fall right back to sleep. However, managed to pull myself out of bed and went to have breakie with my usual makan kakis' ie DC (Daniel) and Meng Hong. Joey was there as well....but he's not the usual.

Nothing unusual happened today except that I was reminded of a few truths in my life which make me appreciate life in general a little bit more.

(a) AJ text me asking me for breakie. Though I'd already eaten, I accompanied her in a nearby coffee shop. Then chatted with her for awhile. Sat with her throughout the whole meeting. She's been such a great friend. Like a big sis to me. Known her for ages dy and really she has always been there. She loved me when I was a wreck. She loves me now when I am not such a wreck. Am really grateful for her.

(b) I am daddy's number one fan. Dad is my all time favourite preacher, not because he's my dad but because I enjoy his preaching. Sure, dad ain't hip and happening (far from it, I think though in food/ restaurants....dad is way better than my sis and me) but he has substance and he is not demeaning. Like it when he speaks in point form....Fyi, just for the footnote, noticed dad's shirts are looking better these days......guess what? He bought them himself! Finally years of sticking near mum and me is bearing fruit =)

(c) Kenneth and I always have thoughts flying through our heads while we're listening to the sermons or in meetings. And usually we have some mutual understanding in what we are ok or not ok with. Realise today was another example of why we are better friends than I am with others. Sometimes words need not be said. Just a common eye contact or a nod or a weird smile indicating,"Hmmmm.......".....

(d) Meng Yoe looks way cuter in short boyish haircut and should seriously consider maintaining the look. He looks ugly any other way. Wish people would stop lying to him about his long hair equals hot. On a more personal note, I was not feeling well last night and he sent me home. Guess Yoyo has been and still is the best bro any girl could have.

(e) My sister and I both thought the guy "Tosh" in the video presentation was cute. Great minds think alike. Beyond the looks, I guess in many ways, my sis and I share similar values and principles and for that I am glad we are family.

(f) The Indian people I saw in the video were so passionate about revival in their lives and their nation. I envied them and covet that for us here. And also realise sometimes I get too caught up in the "I need to look good" thing and realise alot of the youths like to criticise me about certain things and realise that I need to just deal with it and not succumb to it. There are bigger issues at stake here.

(g) DC mentioned to me this morning again that every time he looks at me, he sees more and more of mum in me, as in looks wise and that in 20 years time, I am going to look like mum today. I thought about it and figured it's a good thing. More than just looks, mum is a superwoman. She is capable in her career, in admin stuff, sure she is a bit fessed up at times over stuff like cleanliness and silly other things which she considers important but she has a kind heart, compassionate toward the less fortunate, chatterbox by nature, etc.....and fashion style which leave my friends wondering why I can't dress more trendy. Love mudd alot.

(h) During the entire day and especially so during the 365 Comm Mtg, I was excited and scared at the same time of the great things God is going to do in our youth group. We're aiming to grow to 3,000 pax in 3 years. I am considering many things and really logically speaking there is only so much we can do. However, Kenneth and I have ALWAYS at the end of every year told each other, we are who we are and what we have because of God's grace. And I believe that as the comm and the youth group put their hearts and mind to it, we will indeed witness a miracle. I am so so so excited!!!!! Not going to miss this for the world, man!!!!

Ok...off to read proposals from the comm and do some reading then it's light outs. Yes, I am a baby. I sleep early.

The FIRSTs & LASTs tag

10 Firsts--
First Best Friend > Chong Euying (Std 1 best friend and we're still friends till today)
First Screen name > To be honest, dun really get this one.
First Pet Name > Gracie =)
First Piercing > Ears and nothing else has and will be pierced
First Crush > I believe it was in Kindie.....but cant recall his name, maybe Edward or Eugene...
First CD - Backstreet Boys
First School - Grace Kindergarten
First Cries - When born, duh
First Kiss - Hahahahha.....must I tell you?
First Car - A purple kancil....wiped out my bank account to pay for the car and the remaining balance dad and mum helped out.

9 Lasts--
Last Time You Smoked > Never
Last Food You Ate > Wedges with sour cream @ Ms.Reads
Last Car Ride > My own?
Last Movie You Watched > Rob B Hood
Last Phone Call > With someone from EY HR dept
Last Bubble Bath You Took > Er....it's been awhile liao....
You Listened To > Too Little Too Late by Jojo
Last Words You Said - "Dee, what do you want for Christmas?"

8 Have You Ever--
Dated A Best Friend > Always dated my best friends
Been Arrested > Nope
Been on TV > Nope
Eaten Sushi - Of course!!!
Cheated On Your B/F or G/F > Not my style
Been On A Blind Date > Nope....not something I do
Been Out Of The Country > Yup
Been In Love > Once

7 Things You Are Wearing--
1 > Pyjamas
2 > Dolphin bracelet from Perlini's Silver
3 > Spectacles
4 > Silver chain
5 > Diamond pendant from Diamond Platinum which my sis bought for my 21st bday
6 > Undergarments....duh???
7 > Nightcream (going to put on in a couple of minutes)

6 Things You've Done Today
1 > Tried the famous brownie with ice cream @ Ms.Reads (confirmed it's heavenly...a must try)
2> Spent time with my best friend, Li-Ann
3 > Worked?
4 > Exercised by walking alot today
5 > Tried breakfast at a new place in KL Sentral station....Not bad.
6 > Started reading "Now, Discover your strengths (How to develop your talents and those of the people you manage)" by Marcus Buckhingham and Donald O Cliffton

5 Favorite Things (not in any order)--
1 > Sophie (my soft toy since I was 4 yrs of age
2 > Perfumes
3 > Accesories
4 > Potatoes
5 > Clothes from Cat Whiskers and Blook

4 People You Most Trust--
1 > My family
2 > Li-Ann
3 > Meng Yoe
4 > Jenny

3 Things You Want To Do Before You Die--
1 > Get married
2 > Give birth and raise a kid or kids
3 > Stay at an expensive beach resort

2 Choices--
Vanilla or Chocolate - Chocolate
Hugs or Kisses - Hmmm....tough one....

1 Person You Want To See Right Now--
No point wanting cos it won't happen

Tag--
1 > Meng Hong
2 > Su-Lyn
3 > Paul
4 > Abel
5 > Meng Yoe
6 > Joyce
7 > Natalie

the Grace of God....and a little on LDRs

The last weekend this seem to be the prevailing emphasis.

Just as I was standing by the stage waiting to go up and do offering, I secretly wished the worship team would sing "We're here by grace". Of course, they didn't but Un Wah Lok did.

On Friday night, dad and I had an emo talk. I was emo, he was not. Talked about various aspects of my life and one of the constant topics has always been my career path/ choice. Alot of people have not been all that agreeable to my long (not to mention terribly late and unsafe) working hours. And though these are not the reasons why I enjoy my work, however I still maintain the stand there is something more I can learn.

Just on Friday evening, I'd received a phone call from a lady from another church whose age would be like ma's, I think...Within the conversation, she must have asked me how long do I plan to work like this about 5 times. Sigh. Trust me, I am getting less and less convinced that this is the way to go. But I have always set a timeline so till that time comes, the journey must continue.

Back to the service this morning. I was so blessed by the song items. I could not help but look and think to myself that God has really done something in Un Wah Lok's life. He is so much more radiant (I know this word is usually used for women but can't think of a similar word for a male so this will have to do). And am reminded it is truly by the grace of God.

A friend and I were discussing about long distance relationships and whether it works, is it practical......

I am of the stand that if one has not started the relationship and one party has to be away, then best to just not start at all. However if the relationship has started and in the middle if one is seconded to another location/ country, then there is room for re-evalution of the continuity of the relationship. And if the relationship is strong and ready for marriage, should the couple consider marriage sooner because one is going to be away so that both parties can be together?
There was no conclusion. Guess different people have different perspectives.

True Love...

"True love is not about loving someone perfect but loving their imperfections perfectly!"

Read the above from my cousy's blog and was reminded of what it means to love someone. And how God loves me the way I am.

Tofu'ness

Slept pretty late last night cos was yakking on the phone. Woke up in the morning feeling abit like I was on my way to being a tofu. 6am morning prayer was spent catching up with my sis. Yes, I should have concentrated. I am sorry.

Some things that have been running through my mind...

(a) Is having money really all that important? I mean is living a life of luxury really something I want?

(b) Is risking again ever going to happen for me again? What is wrong with me sometimes I don't understand.

(c) Is my back going to break anytime soon? And why is my tummy so airy?

Went for a required medical check up. Took almost 3 hours. Then went to pops house to pick up the chicked meat for ma. Then came back only to lie down for 5 minutes and head out for lunch. Came back feeling even more like a tofu.

Anyway, started picking people about half past 2 and then there was 365. Some stuff were playing through my mind during 365. Anyway, I went out for altar call. Actually did not need anyone specifically to pray for me. Really could have been alone with God. Louisa prayed for me. Said a couple of things which made sense ie I am carrying burdens that maybe God never meant for me to carry, that I am precious in His eyes and her heart, I am wanting to move to another level, God is even challenging me about different things, etc. I wish I could have cried more. Last night I talked to dad about some issues. Teared quite a fair bit.

Dad said he loved me very much and wants the best for me. And wants me to be happy. He wants me to have the best. And he is my sounding board. Guess I feel pressured when no one but myself is pressuring me.

God, guide me. Grant me wisdom. Show me the right thing to do.

Tofu signing off to bed. Nite nite.

Quote of the day

" ... the lessons that I carry from growing up are the things that help a guy like me, who hasn't graduated from high school, compete with people who've been to Wharton and have long resumes. I learnt about integrity, sticking by your word and taking chances. You have nothing so your choice is between doing nothing and taking a chance. You take a chance. Growing up, you had to be an entrepreneur. I guess that's helped me a lot in business because I've never been one to think in the box. I'm not institutionalised. "

Shawn Carter aka Jay-Z (hip-hop artist, former drug-dealer & successful entrepreneur)

Scare of the Day

The day started out relatively ok. I had to drag a ton of stuff to office this morning. Completed my work and was preparing for my training this morning.

Halfway through training, I realised that my tag (access card) was missing from the string around my neck. I searched and search the whole entire floor. And the toilets as well. Sigh.

Anyway after lunch, I went into another training room and found it there. It was occupied earlier on hence could not check. Phew.....was quite annoyed actually during the few hours I could not find my card.

The rest of the afternoon was rather boring.

After work, I made my way to Sue Min's place. Was to meet her for dinner. My birthday treat to lamb chop. Yummy. Before I went to her place, I stopped by the bank only to be annoyed again that my ATM card didn't work. I tried getting money out earlier in the afternoon but the machine could not read my card. Sigh. So dad had to rescue me and give me cash till I find time to get a new one.

Yesterday night my friend and I talked about honeymoon spots. Hilarious really. I was abit reluctant to tell. I guess maybe being the over cautious/ protective of my own heart, I try not to indulge in unnecesary display of my wishes especially this sort cos I suppose it's more of the "less you hope the less you get disappointed" sort of thing. Get my drift?

Well places I definitely want to visit (again) although some not set for the honeymoon setting are as follows:-

(a) India (want to visit the children's home in Chennai...maybe will go with dad next year)

(b) Gold Coast, Australia (cos I want to go to Movie World, etc...plus it's by the beach...)

(c) Bali, Indonesia (cos it's simply romantic and relaxing)

(d) Thailand (cos everything is cheap so shopping and spa'ing can be done without much guilt)

(e) Swansea, Whales (actually just want to eat scones at that restaurant by the sea again)

(f) Bum around England to the various towns (but don't want to be the one driving)

(g) Disneyland, USA (cos I am a real kid inside)

(h) South Africa (cos I heard it's beautiful and being an auditor, I want to verify and confirm that statement).

Actually I think I want to go to more places than I admit. Goodness.....must work hard dy.

Sigh....

Lack of words for an appropriate word for the occasion, the above comes to mind.

Fyi, life has started to be more hectic than ever. With the increasing responsibilities at work ie reaching work at 7am and sleeping after 1am every night. Getting up 6am is not a delight, trust me. Sigh.

To add to the pressure, there is a lot to be done with regards to 365. Not that I am complaining, mind you. However it does not change the fact that it requires energy. It's a mixture of feelings really. So many stuff happening in the background. You cannot imagine. Last night at upper room meeting, I just felt like puking and then fainting. My eyeballs were about to fall out, not to mention my fingers were about to break as the prayers were one after the other. Who cares about the one typing, right? Sigh. Ok....ok....I don't mind typing but seriously there was no break.

Then there is the confusion of my love life. Up to this afternoon, I did not realise how confusing it has become. I was asked whether I was attached and you know what? I don't know what we are. We're not together. I have not said yes. But I do enjoy his company. A tiny part of me inside wonders whether people out there really want to see me happy or they just want to be no 8. Sigh.

Then there is the increasing worry that I am putting on weight. Or rather weight is fluctuating. And then there was the tiny scare of possibly being sick...really sick. Then there was the moment whereby I thought I was going to pass out of tiredness. Sigh.

Then there is the feeling of brokeness. PwC still owes me cash, man!!!! So dying a slow and painful death. But with my mood slowly deteriorating, I won't be that hungry gua. Sigh.

Sigh. There is no other way to end this. Sigh.

Where are you when i need you? Let me guess....Out eating. Sigh. Just as I finished this sentence you messaged and said you will be late. Double sigh.

Possibly the few minute partial moments of happiness were the following:-

(a) Curry puff with potato for breakie yesterday and this morning.

(b) Cold coffee yesterday and this morning.

(c) Mozza burger and curly fries with a huge cup of rootbeer float for lunch today.

All in all being very generous in ratings, it gave me like half an hour (I eat fast k) of pleasure? Sigh. What is half an hour la?

More Birthday Pressies

First and foremost want to say thanks to Jess and the rest of my cell gals for the delicious cake and the cute gift. The ironic thing was I walked into a shop a month back. Wanted to buy this cup but decided against wasting money. So to my sweet surprise.....I have it now.

Then Jac and Terence L gave me something from Body Shop. Love Body Shop stuff.

Last gift is from Meng Hong.....Dad asked whether he bought me this because he thinks I am a monkey.....I hope not.

Off to bed. It has been a sweet day. Went to dinner to celebrate AJ's bday with Meng Hong and Daniel. Ate alot and laughed alot as well.

It's sweet dreams tonight.

Delicious Ambiguity

I was pondering on the state of my life at the moment. Yes, I always think alot. And found something that seems to fit the moment.

I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next. Delicious Ambiguity.
~Gilda Radner

The honeymoon season is about to end. It's time to wake up and face the reality. And I suppose many a time in life, it is the ability to appreciate the small blessings that bring meaning to life. At least I have fulfilled my mission to make you happy. That was all I wanted to see happen.

Now is the time to move away from the bridge or if I stay to be remotely silent. To allow time to do what it can only do.

Meantime, I will do the following while I walk in the jungle:-
(a) Work extremely hard
(b) Exercise more
(c) Put more effort into the cell group
(d) Try to do more in 365
(e) Spend more time with my family & friends
(f) And finally hopefully a holiday in Sept/ Oct next year

If we meet again at the bridge, then let it be because we intend to cross it. I am sorry I can't cross it now with you. My heart needs more time than I realised.

If the bridge vanishes, smile to know it once existed and then move on.

~I think I am going to enjoy the walk~

Touched....

Helen Keller once said,

"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, nor touched....but are felt in the heart".

Henri Nouwen once said,

"When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives means the most us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving much advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a gentle and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not curing, not healing and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is a friend who cares".

Dear Pritam,

Even though I didn't sound like it but I was/ am scared. Scared that I am really sick. Thanks for offering the best thing....your being there for me. Thanks for always be so faithful. Means the world to me.

Love,
Grace.

Back to work. Deadline is getting nearer and nearer. And I have so much on my mind. Sigh.

More of the getaway.....

Doing what we do best =P

Trying to look cool but to no avail

Someone we met at the zoo

A beautiful place to be proposed =)

Hot butts defined?

What is that boy doing?

The full story tonight (I hope) if I am not too zonked out.

Short Holiday Getaway

During the Raya break, I went away to Taiping and Penang with Sam, Mun, Joshy and Joshy's hostel mate, Yung Leong.

We started out from Subang Jaya at the ungodly hour of 6am due to Mun's insistence of us having breakfast in good old Ipoh. When we arrived at Ipoh, the place was so crowded. Never....and I repeat never have I seen such perseverance for food. I think if this sort of situation were to arise in KL, the place would have to either expand or they will be at risk of closing down. KL people are probably not so patient. We waited about half an hour for our table. That is not the end of it, the place was so crowded till the tim sum cart could not be pushed properly. People were just going to the cart and taking the food themselves. We were no exception. Madness!!!

We arrived in Taiping in time for lunch at Sam's house. His mum cooked us a sumptious meal. After the heavy meal, we headed for the famous Taiping lake. We wanted to paddle something at the lake area. Kah Mun was so mean. He didn't want to paddle with me in fear that he would be the one doing all the work for us to move ahead. So Joshy was sweet enough to partner me while Mun and Yung Leong went together. Fyi, Kah Mun and Yung Leong got stuck somewhere at the beginning. Never look down at me, man!!!! You reap what you sow.

After the exercise (it was hard work paddling k), we made our way to the zoo. Before we could enter (but after buying the tix), it started to pour. We continued on anyhow. The zoo has a variety of animals. My favourite were the rhinos. I think the zoo was fun other than the fact it was pouring and that some parts of it could have been better maintained. Apparently Taiping is known for alot of first ie first jail, first zoo, first lake, etc.

After that we were just so zonked out. Both Kenneth and myself had cuts on our feet dy. We went back to Sam's church where we stayed in the guest rooms at the top floor. We took a shower and I fell asleep. Woke up to have dinner and then came back. We broke the key to the grill of our floor so we moved some furniture around to block the entrance.

We headed for Penang the very next morning for breakfast. We were a tad bit too early but by the time we parked and found the place to eat, it was just about right. Afterwhich we went to have ice kacang with Phui Yee and her friend. Then met Sue Min and went to this so called private beach. Initially we all had this idea it would be fun, but when we got there, I felt fear. Cos it was too secluded. So we drove all the way there for nothing really. Sigh.

We took a long drive back to Batu Ferringhi. However upon stepping onto the beach, it started to rain. Pathetic but true. I ended getting a foot massage by the beach whilst the 3 boys stared at me and the dude massaging my foot =)

Visited Plaza Gurney. Did some shopping there before gorging at Gurney Drive. I vomitted on our way to meet Victor. Returned to the backpackers' hostel rather late that night. It was rather ironic...me being the princess person I am booked a backpackers place for us to spend the night. It was an experience but given a choice would rather stay somewhere else la. The rooms were super tiny with brick walls, a mattress on the wooden floor and a table fan with mosquito netting. The bare minimum. The bathrooms are shared bathrooms. There were also beds out in the hall. Those cost RM 10 per night. Cheap, right? Well, like I said for the experience, it was fine. However between a hotel and this, a hotel would definitely win.

The next morning, we were up early again. We went near the street market (at some random road) to eat. Then we were on our way to Fort Cornwalis. We had a blast there. Took tons of pics. Especially love the one Joshy and I took at the swing. The one with the hotness of our bums personified =P Yung Leong was hilarious. He kept snapping pics. All throughout the time at this place, I was busy sms'ing my cell girls and liasing with AJ about the upcoming combined cell dinner we were to have on Saturday. So was pretty much in a daze. I was also rather "ngm kam yuin" that we did not get a chance to play at the beach as it was raining cats and dogs the day earlier. Sigh. I mean all the way to Penang and not get to play at the beach?

At the end of the visit there, Kenneth agreed to go to the beach. So we went and sat on a banana boat ride. It was nice but not particularly thrilling, if you get my drift. It was just lovely to have the wind beat my face and hear the sea. As we were nearing the end of the banana boat ride, the dude driving the motorboat made a sharp turn. Next thing I knew, I realise that Yung Leong's shirt was in the sea. I was shocked. Then looked carefully (I wasn't wearing my specs, mind you) I realised that it was Yung Leong in the sea!!! So we all hurried to pull him up. But I was already laughing so hard. The dude is funny.

We changed in the hotel's washroom and made our way to eat cendol. Then made our way back to Taiping to fetch Samuel Chummy. The car ride back to KL was a long journey. We left Penang around 2pm only to arrive KL around 9pm. Man, it was long. But the ride back was funny with the farts that Joshy gave Sam in the face. Oh ya, we did stop for a break which we had Baskin Robbins ice-cream and Dunkin Donuts.

Overall, a satisfying trip. Another significant thing which happened during the trip was that I was given a promise by a close friend. Stared and read that promise about a billion times and at that point, my heart felt like it was going to fall but I held myself. Needed confirmation which didn't happen during that trip. Oh well....life goes on. Definitely going back to Penang again. Possibly one of the most romantic places in Malaysia =)





I am reminded of why I love water.

Open

Last Saturday, we didn't have 365 in the afternoon. Instead we had a workers conference with "Church Planting" as its theme. The night before I prayed to God telling Him that I will choose to be open. Open to what He had to say. Open to listen. And hopefully open to obey.

Sometimes we deceive ourselves. We hide behind many deeds (good ones, I think).....somewhat "holy" ones......but was reminded that obedience is better than sacrifice. If one is not walking in the center of His will, one has disobeyed. Such a sobering truth.

On Saturday night amidst the pouring rain and chilly wind, I was sober. Very sober. Was truly inspired by Ps.Yuen Woh's honesty. No glamour, no public applause. Alot of hard work. Alot of heartache. Alot of struggle. As a result of that, a new strength, a new resilience, a new dependency. Like a miracle is being worked out day by day.

Guess it's not about church planting. It's about my every day lifestyle. Do I live a life He can be proud of? Am I where He wants me to be? Faithful in the little?

God, I don't know what You have in store for me in the future. Everything has always and remains to be uncertain. I can only hope that my heart is always tender before You, that my heart will be good soil to receive what You want me to do. Give me the courage to let go of things and people that are not from You. Let me see little value in them. Give me new insight. Let me fall in love with You all over again. I choose to enjoy my journey in life. Make my heart Your home. In your precious name. Amen.

Front row: Jess, Jo, me, Rachelle? Samantha, Jacqueline, Viv, Roseanne?

Back row: Garrett, Sam, Nic, Victor, Ee Huei

Something I look forward to everytime there is a workers conference. Picture of full timers kids along with the rest of the pioneer kids and of course, the other pastors' kids.

People who understand the world I grew up in of which others do not.

Have to continue working. Blogged to de-stress. Stress level has increased tremendously over the last 3 days. Sleepless nights are a frequent thing. I need to do this for another year. Then take stock of my life. Till later....

My Fridays Birthday

It was initially rather tense as Pritam was late and Junie was upset. I felt like the night could possibly end in disaster. Blackness was written all over both their faces.

Anyway, we arrived in Fridays and Pritam got this inspiration that the Fridays staff should give me the shout out thing that they normally do for any birthday person. While awaitng our food, I noticed this particular waiter with a colourful jester hat. Mentioned it to Pritam and he attempted to take a photograph of the dude. The guy noticed and tada, Pritam opened his big mouth and asked him whether he could take a pic with me. Oh, forgot to mention, that Pritam said he was cute and I agreed. You be the judge of it.

Food was delicious as usual. Love Fridays for its ambience. My all time favourite (not to mention routine) would be a bowl of onion soup, potato skins as appetizer and possibly either a grilled fish or chicken salad as the mains. I usually skip dessert. This time was not much different except I decided to forego the soup. Didn't think I could finish which I didn't anyway.

Pritam was insistent on me having the great Fridays bday thing. Me standing on a seat in my favourite restaurant is not my way of having fun. More likely to test to see whether I would actually feel my cheeks blush which FYI, they did!!!! I was asked which version of the birthday song I would like, either the short one or the backward one. I chose the short one and all the waiters squatted while they sang, giving the entire restaurant a good view of tiny me on a chair.

Oh and there was this other cute guy waiter who was randomly flirting / poking fun at us. He's young sort of cute. Walked past us possibly every 7-10 minutes, making sounds, eavesdropping.....rather amusing really. He even took off his jester hat and placed it on me. Wait let me check whether I have a pic of us together with his jester hat. So you think this guy is cuter? Hahahhaa.....Pritam was possibly having the most fun time amongst the 3 of us.

There is another pic of me with the jester hat. Let me try to source it out. Sigh.....But honestly, the dude was funny. Made me laugh alot that night and totally made the whole night less tense than it first begun.

Ok....so the hat doesn't match with my clothings. How was I to know that Fridays would be swamped with guys in jester hats, right?

Oh.....check out the lemonade. Either I was super thirsty that night or the drink is seriously refreshing. I had two cups of that. Exceeded my usual limit.

Then I was given my birthday present. For this year, apparently the theme for our birthdays is FRIENDSHIP. For Pritam's birthday, Junie and I gave him a compilation of stuff....one of which were pics of us with him (in his old hairstyle - everything tied up).

Anyway, I had a great time that night. Really blessed by their friendship. Would not trade it for anything in the world. Thanks for being such great friends and treating me like a real princess. Love ya lots.