Humble abode

Fourth Grand Uncle Phuah Sian Poh

2012-02-13T00:47:00.000+08:00

My Fourth Grand Uncle Phuah Sian Poh was a pianist. From the various articles, he proved to be a capable man. He was elected the Vice-President of the United Chinese Musical Association in 1928. He was then chosen to take on the Honarary Music Superintendent role in 1930 and 1931.

He is the father of Uncle Phuah Swee Cheng, a retired teacher who has a son.

Second Grand Uncle Phuah Sian Keng

2012-02-13T00:38:00.001+08:00

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 11 August 1921, Page 93

My second grand uncle Phuah Sian Keng is one of the musicians in the family. In 1921, he was elected President of the United Chinese Musical Association and was re-elected again in 1923.

He survived the Japanese Occupation and was able to observe the matrimony of his daughter, Lily Phuah. Her husband Edwin William Mesquitta, was a British from Portsmouth. They tied the knot on Feb 2, 1952.

Referring to some notes on the internet, the Mesquitta family seems to be currently still located in UK while the a group of the Phuah family may have moved to Australia.

Eldest Grand Uncle Phuah Sian Kee

2012-02-12T23:35:00.000+08:00

This is a picture of my eldest grand-uncle - Phuah Sian Kee in the Malayan Saturday Post, Feb 18, 1933, Page 18. The photo was taken on Feb 4, 1933. He was photographed with other members of the Tiang Ho Kok Association.

Looking at past articles, the association seemed to dine quite often at New Century Restaurant over at Great World.

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 14 April 1919, Page 4

His name appeared way back in 1919, which meant that he was aged 24 when he was elected as an office bearer of the Asiatic Mutual Association.

This association seems to be related to the Asiatic Petroleum Company Limited, which was a joint venture between Shell and Royal Dutch oil companies. Their oil depot was located at Pulau Bukom. (To be verified)

My assumption is that my eldest grand-uncle might have links with the petroleum industry and he might also be a businessman/merchant.

As for his family, grand-uncle Sian Kee has a son by the name of Phuah Swee Lian, who is my uncle. If the facts are correct, Uncle Swee Lian was married to Aunty Sim Neo. They have a daughter by the name of Phuah Poh Choo.

He used to work in Sin Soon Huat Pte Ltd. The company is still in existence today and it's a supplier of products for the oil and gas industry. Uncle Swee Lian passed away on Nov 6, 1976.

Eldest Grand Aunt: Phuah Guek Choo

2012-02-10T23:01:00.000+08:00

The Straits Times, 20 July 1974, Page 25

I'm eternally grateful to National Library Board for uploading these news articles of yesteryears. I can't confirm that this person mentioned here is my grand-aunt, but she bares the same name as the eighth child of my great-grandfather, Baba Phuah Chong Teen.

Working out the dates, Grand-aunt was born in 1905. I've to further verify my facts though.

Seventh and Youngest Grand-Uncle Phuah Cheng Swee

2012-02-10T22:39:00.000+08:00

The Straits Times, 28 February 1937, Page 5

I was doing some research when I found this article online. It was an announcement of my youngest grand-uncle's marriage - Phuah Cheng Swee.

Interestingly, my great-grandmother's occupation was listed here - She was a cashier at the Singapore Police Court. Her name is not listed here though, but she was known by the family as Mama Oh-Ne.

My grand-uncle married the daughter of Mr Seow Kway Fah.

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 5 September 1906, Page 5

I found an article whereby Mr Seow had contributed a sum of $1 to the Hullet Momento and Scholarship Fund as seen in the above article.

Looking Back At Lunar New Year of Past: Pineapple Tarts

2012-01-22T14:54:00.000+08:00

My mum loves to cook. I still remember that there was this Peranakan cooking show where to hold you for the entire show, they'd onlt release the recipe at the end of it. my mum would diligently wait for the the recipe to be flashed on the screen before furiously copying it on a piece of paper.

It was in her recipe book that she would also write down the ingredients of how to make pineapple tarts. After more than three decades, she has now memorised the recipe. However, the amount of effort has not changed. It might even be more streneous for her body, who is 70 years-old this October.

When I was younger, I'd run into the kitchen to help out in the making of tarts. For a start, I was tasked to use a cutter to make the top crosses for the pineapple tarts. Once I had mustered that, I was promoted to make the tart dough.

With a metal dough cutter and a wooden pressor, I'd pressed the cutter down into the flattened dough. I was told that i should not push the pressor too deep in or else the base of the tart would be too thin to hold up the pineapple jam. After each cut, I'd to nip the sides to create lines on all side.

I guess mine is not the most difficult of all task. My dad and mum have always been the ones cutting and preparing the pineapple jam. The cooking of the jam itself would easily take up 3 to 4 hours.

Looking Back At Lunar New Year of Past: Love Letters

2012-01-21T23:30:00.000+08:00

Born and bred in a small country such as Singapore, visiting relatives has never been any issues as we can 'cover the ground' all within two days. No long distance travel, and from east to west would only take us all of one hour without jams.

That's why we do not have a long one week holiday as what Chinese nationals in their country get to enjoy.

For my family, we have lost much of the tradition as they are done in honour of the deities or ancestors. Still, some non-religious traditions are still kept and family traditions followed.

I remember helping my mother make love letters (For Peranakan, it's called kuih kapit) along the corridor of my home in Circuit Road. With the elongated charcoal pit, similar to what the satay man uses, and also with the metal moulds, we pour the batter onto the mould. Before that, the mould must first be heated. My favourite part is clamping the mould together as the batter would start to ooze out. When that happens, I'd start to scrap the sides to remove the left-overs.

We'll slot into the charcoal pit and once in awhile, opening it up to see if it has turned slight brown. After a couple of minutes, I'd turned the entire mould around and the entire sequence goes on again. Once both sides are equally brown, I'd use a blunt knife to remove the love letters from the mould.

That's not the end, i've to use a chopstick and very quickly roll it into a cylindrical shape. If I'm slow in doing that, the love letter will just harden. I had great fun making love letters!

Till Death Do Us Part

2012-01-15T23:33:00.002+08:00

There's an article in the Sunday Times about "Putting kids' welfare first in break-ups". It's so cliche to say that when a marriage heads towards a divorce, the kids are the ones that suffer.

No matter at what angle you choose to look at things, the pain and hurt suffered by the children is usually more than they can handle. The article talks about what the boy felt while his parents were going through their divorce proceedings.

"He felt guilty, thinking his mischievous behaviour had led to his parents divorce".

What the parents need to do is "not to allow their own pain and resentment" tint their decisions in which the child will get hurt. We know it is hard to achieve that as custody battles bring out the worse in couples. Divorce has also seen an upward trend - From 3,150 in 1990 to 7,036 in 2010.

So the question here is," Do we still believe in the institution of marriage?" And the simplest answer, "Maybe we shouldn't get married at all". Yes, so why do we even get married in the first place?

The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 7:1-16, because of immorality and that we may lack self-control, we should marry and not put ourselves through sin. However, when one gets married, the Lord puts it very plainly that there should never be a situation where spouses should divorce - 'A wife must not separate from her husband.'

The Lord also has a warning to spouses as seen in Hebrews 13:4-7 - "Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral."

Simply put, let not take marriage lightly. This is not a trading commodity where we can buy and sell. What's worse is that if you have children, the stakes are even higher as how they will turn out in the future lies in your hands.

There are joys in marriage as Paul puts it. But we have to remember that it's not about that whirlwind proposal; it's not about courtship and being in love al the time. It's really about commitment in making things work. It's the promise that you've given to God and your spouse.

"To have and to hold from this day forth. For better, for worse. For richer for poorer. In sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part."

If we have said these vows, then let us stick to every word and make the relationship work.

Reflections: 2011

2011-12-31T13:09:00.001+08:00

For all this 38 years of my life, I have reflected on how God has been gracious to me and my family. There were loads of ups and downs, and there are times where things were tough, but I like one of my friends had said, " It will never be dark forever. The sun will have to rise."

On day 1 of this year, I'd listed five things that I'd want to achieve and largely, I'd done completed most of them and more.

Paying it forward, I've been sponsoring a Cambodian child for about a year now. I chose to sponsor this 7 year-old boy as Aly is also of the same age and every child deserves to have a proper education. I've also been serving my church's Young Adults Ministry for bout one year now, and through them I had the opportunity to visit Philippines and help the children there. So yes, I've not done charity work back home in Singapore, but God directed me overseas. Also, I supported the Hair For Hope cause where my student leaders and I went to get our heads shaved.

I said that I'd wanted to travel to an Asian country this year. I ended up visiting four - Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and Hong Kong.So this is beyond expectations.

I'd signed up for my 10km run, but the timing of the run was not good for me as I'd book for a holiday and it coincided with the run. Still, I had the opportunity to play in the PMC Cup soccer. This meant that I got to run though I'm not too sure if it worked out to 10km.

Also in my 2011 wish list was to finish reading two books. Well, I'm happy to say that I finished reading Lee Kuan Yew's memoir - 'Hard Truths'. Have read a few other books at one go but finished reading none.

Finally - studies. I did not do my further studies on psychology or counselling but I had the opportunity to participate in this event called World Vounteer Conference where I got to meet big time luminaries such as movie stars Michelle Yeoh and Jet Li.

I am glad that I have met most of the goals that I've set.

So what were the other highlights of my life?

1. Alyson going into Primary 1. It was a memorable time for me. I took time off work to be with her for the first three days of her school. Wearing her PLMGPS uniform brought a smile to my face. It reminded me how my family had to trust God to avail that place to her. As a parent, I wonder if we have given her enough opportunities to excel. She's currently trying out piano and swimming. Aly wanted to try out guzheng but she said that she was not able to catch up with the class.

I plan to get her back to art class again after she has dropped it sometime in the mid of the this year.

2. I'd my first taste of managing a soccer team. Love the adrenaline but it's always hard to manage the expectations of the players who are there. The only thing that helped me to make up my mind on who to start was the team that we are playing against. If they are quick, I'd to look for more youthful defenders, etc.

3. I was crazily chasing the last KTM trains in July as the train station at Tanjong Pagar was taken back by Singapore government, and the tracks were all removed. I had a whole lot of 'me' time while running/walking along the tracks. I started from Bukit Timah and made my way to Tanjong Pagar using only the train tracks.

4. Health was a big concern for me this year. I'd back pains, side pains, knee pains but the ultimate one that knocked me out was that I had appendicitis in August and after that pains in the stomach in September. This has caused me to evaluate what is more important in life.

5. The down side of this year or minor irritation includes my helper not wanting to return from her holiday in Indonesia thus causing us to cancel her work permit and we are now doing without a helper for the last one and a half months. The new helper is supposedly coming in some time on 15 Jan 2012. It has been tough as it meant Jac and I had to iron out how we should handle the kids and that brought along arguments and some unhappiness. Well, that's part of life, isn't it. Just yesterday, we lost our cat - Ginger. She found her way out of the house even though we did not open the doors. This weighs heavily on the hearts of my family.

Ghost Story From Tekong - Both a Gurkha's and My Story

2011-12-04T16:18:00.001+08:00

"The Gurkhas used to train on the offshore island of Pulau Tekong and Mr Shree Bahadur Thapa remembers leisurely driving along Tekong highway.

One night, he came across an old man in his 80s at Camp Two located in the eastern part of the offshore island. He was carrying a changkul and wearing a amboo hat and Mr Tharpa wondered what this man was doing late at night. It was 9.45pm on his watch.

"How far is Camp One from here?" the old man asked. After Mr Thapa replied that it was quite a distance, the old man said "thank you" and walked away.

Mr Thapa shared what he saw with his friends the following morning. His surprised friends earnestly told him that there was no civilian life on Pulau Tekong at night."

This was a story told by Mr Thapa to The Straits Times on December 3, 2011, page D11, who served as a Gurkha from 1978 till 1994.

After reading this story, I too recalled that I had quite a similar experience back in 1993 when I was in Officer Cadet School (OCS). Just that my story comes without the old man.

A few OCS friends and I were on a night topography mission on Tekong Island. It was pitch dark that evening. Even the clouds colluded to block out the glow of the moon.

Strange things happened that evening. Lugging our full packs and weapons, we were navigating our way to the next check point. Around us were palm trees - row after row of these trees. After a long trek, we thought that we actually arrived at the same spot where we first started. Still uncertain with our deduction, we pasted a green sticky tape on the tree and walked on. In the next 20 minutes, we were back at the same tree. We might have been impaired by our tiredness, but what we saw was unbelievable! It was not like we were walking blind. We had our map and compass.

To add to our uneasiness, the last muslim prayer at about 8.30pm channelled out from a Malaysian mosque only helped to remind us that there is definitely a spiritual realm to life.

We turned our agitation on each other, arguing about how we could be so lost. Finally, we realised that since we were going around in circles, the best way was to look for a direct but longer route to use. That route was the Tekong Highway.

When we arrived at Tekong Highway, the route was simply un-passable. The path was burning amber. Someone or something had laid an entire path of simmering fire throughout the entire highway till our eyes can see. It was like, "What in the world are we up against?" We thought that we would still bash through since this was our only hope. We were really at lost over what we should do next.

The 'saviour' to our full night of misery came when we saw a vehicular light from a distance. It was coming towards us. We waved frantically for the land rover to stop. It did and the Gurkhas in the vehicle asked us to board it.

As the vehicle moved along, we shared that we had wanted to use the Tekong Highway to get to our location, and the simple reply was," Don't take that road". We never did ask why.

A Taste of Lecturing

2011-11-09T23:30:00.000+08:00

One of the highlights of today was the opportunity for me to share with students about Corporate Communications. This has been my passion all these while to become a lecturer one day, and to be a good one for a matter-of-fact. I feel that I'm now at an age where I can contribute to the learning of these students.

So when I was asked to do my sharing, I jumped at opportunity. It was a tutorial class of about 18 students and it made for a very good discussion and question session.

It is always important to start the presentation so that the confidence will carry you through the entire sharing. Also, a non-rushed delivery proved to be the winning formula as my points were well understood and nuances and jokes were picked up very quickly.

I felt that I was in my elements - lecturing. I spoke freely about branding, crisis management and the overall make-up of my corporate communications office, and more importantly, it is not all about career advice, but it is more importantly, character building; preparing these students when they hit out into the real world. Do you work for money? What is your passion?

I feel blessed by the opportunity to speak to these students and definitely, I'm craving for more opportunities.

Mitch Albom: Interesting Observation

2011-10-30T21:17:00.002+08:00

After Completing 400 plus pages of Lee Kuan Yew Hard Truths, I wanted to go easy on myself and picked out a never-before read book titled "Have a little faith" by Mitch Albom. I had read his bestseller - Tuesday with Morrie, a book that I had read twice and which I know that I will be re-reading it again some time.

Let's hope it's not too hard a read. If the going gets tough, I'll pepper it with Youtube, Facebook and lots of travel journaling. Here's an interesting first quote.

P.6. "Adam (and Eve) hid in the garden of Eden. Moses tried to substitute his brother. Jonah jumped a boat and was swallowed by a whale. Man likes to run away from God."

Hard truths: Illness

2011-10-30T20:03:00.000+08:00

"If you're suffering from prolonged or chronic illness, people should know that because that affects performance."

This is all so true. Looking from the other side of the fence, it is also important to keep healthy rather than keep fit. The former to me, means that we have to be conscious of how we manage our health, from ensuring that we are not bogged down by stress, to exercising and eating less harmful food for the body. The latter, to my own interpretation, is to try and counter the ill effects of the things we do to our body.

Bernie Madoff: He is Now "Free"

2011-10-29T18:00:00.002+08:00

"I lived the last 20 years of my life in fear. Now, I have no fear because I'm no longer in control." Profound words from Bernie Madoff.

All our lives, we fight to stay in control because we fear the unknown. For Madoff, he no longer need to make any decisions. Madoff no longer had to live a life of lies. His mind has been set free even though he knows that he will most definitely not live beyond his jail term. His greed has destroyed his family. His son commited suicide on the anniversary of his arrest. This is a broken man. He was caught in an unescapable sprial, not too dis-similar to the Shakepearian story of Macbeth.

Turning to the bible, " If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free". John 8:31-32.

The truth will set you free. When we live in fear of lies told and harm done, we are caught in a rut, a mental persecution that incapacitate us. We can't be ourselves. That was what Madoff felt when he was pulling off the Ponzi scheme. He was more than willing to transfer that mental persecution into a physical persecution. From lying to people to being locked in a cell.

Reflections on your life: Prose or Poem?

2011-10-29T14:34:00.000+08:00

Writer David Brooks from New York Times shared about laments made by older folks. These were observations made by Yale class of 1942 during their 50th anniversary.

"The most common lament in this collection is from people who worked at the same company all their lives and now realise how boring they must seem. These people passively let their lives happen to them... Others regret the risk not taken'.

To comment on this, I've worked in three companies to date, clocking in about 12 years of experience. Coincidentally, I was looking at my Linkedin account. True, my CV did not look exciting at all. Still, the question that I pose myself daily is whether I still find my job interesting. There are other side consideration as well. Does it allow me to spend time with my children? Does it allow me to travel overseas for missions? There are areas n our lives that we worry about. Will I be able to cope if I change my job? Can I handle the stress?

"Looking back, many were amazed by the role that chance played in their lives"

Looking back, I believe God has a plan for me. Has it been all laid out for me? It would not be until it is the end of my life. Each day, my life is still unfolding before me. Still, there are things that God has revealed to me.

1. Joining the Boys Brigade (BB) prepared me for the regimentality of the army. I was given a head-start as I was trained in marching commands and other outdoor preparedness such as canoeing and knots tying. I was also groomed to take charge of the BB exco.

2. God placed me through Officer Cadet School (OCS) so that I can get my first real job in the statutory board of the Ministry of Defence. Life was hard in OCS and I was trying all ways and means to get myself out if it for the first 2-3 months. Unsuccessful. On hindsight, staying in OCS was one of the best moves in my life.

3. I entered film school in one of the polytechnics. This was where I found my passion in life - tv production and other communication modules that evoke my interest. I could not understand the need to study math, science and other subjects that I had to grudgingly take during my secondary school days. Video and TV poduction also gave me an added advantage when I applied for my job as the Senior Manager was looking for someone to do videos for the organisation.

4. I am currently working in an education institution and the joy of working here are the young people that I meet. I have the opportunity to do that and because of my experience with the youth, I am now helping out my church in the Young Adults Ministry. I am helping to guide these young lives and steer them away from going into the wrongs of adulthood.

"An amazing number cherished their marriages of 43 years or more. And, for almost all, family and friends mattered most."

Colours of Rainbow

2011-10-29T12:49:00.000+08:00

"What are you drawing?" The answer from Jo came quickly, "Rainbow". This was Jo's very first art piece and frankly, it truly looked like rainbow. So, any takers for his painting?

Swimming Achievement!

2011-10-29T11:30:00.000+08:00

Alyson is seen here with here with her new pink coloured swim suit. Why the title? Aly is now able to swim 25m without any flotation device. She also surprised me by jumping into the swimming pool. Previously, she would slither herself into the water on the premise that she's afraid of the water.

Great progress!

Lee Wei Ling: Living Life Without Regrets

2011-10-23T23:42:00.001+08:00

"My father believes that we must carry on with life despite whatever personal setbacks we might suffer. If he can do something that mght benefit Singapore, he will do so no matter what his age or the state of his health." - Lee Wei Ling, daugther of Lee Kuan Yew.

We should thus never give up no matter what issues are set against you.

Blessed Birthday

2011-10-22T23:52:00.001+08:00

With seven grandchildren aged from 2 to 17 years old, my parents had been the best grandparents that the children can ever asked for. Times of happiness, times of troubles, we took all of it as a family.

Picking up from the words of one of the President Scholars, he said something like 'I did nothing to deserve my family", but with the privilege of being born into this family, I can only thank God for his mercy and grace each and every other day.

Happy birthday Daddy and Mommy!

Oh yes, we had dinner at Kim Choo somewhere around East Coast. My parents did not like it that much though. To be specific, they did not like the ayam buah keluak. Still, the food was reasonably priced.

Let He Who Is Without Sin, Cast The First Stone

2011-10-22T13:36:00.001+08:00

Over the last two weeks, China has been under the scrutiny of the world. A 2-year old girl was left lying on the streets after she was hit by not just one van, but two. The Chinese girl was seen crossing the small street without the knowledge of her mother, who was working around the corner. A CCTV then captured the entire scene, which I am quite sure that would not make news if has not been recorded.

A van came from the left, ran over the little girl like a rag doll, slowed down, and then moved on. More than 18 people was seen to walk past the injured girl without rendering any assistance. The quandary of life saw another another twist - another van ran over an already lifeless girl, and it was an old lady who came to the little girl's help like an angel from heaven. Alas, the little girl has succumbed to her injuries.

How did this atrocious event happen? Is it the people? Is it the mother? Or is it the how the riches of the world has numbed the heads of these people?

I've read up as much from different news articles instead of watching the CCTV recording as the heart wrenching scene will be too much for me and I'd already know the entire scenario without the need to gawk.

An article in Psychology Today shares about the theoretical explanations of why human behaviour is like this. From Classical bystander effect to various reasonings such as compensation culture. All these may have come into play, though I feel that alturism is most affected when people who want to lend a helping hand is not protected, even by its government.

So is it government policies that made the people act this way? To a certain extent. I was in China for a holiday a few years back and I'd observe a man lying on the pavement. I guess it might have been an accident. Many people had gathered around this man, but nobody actually lend a hand to help him. One question immediately came to my mind, "Why are they not helping?" I had the answer when I stopped by my sister's home a few days later. She has been staying in China with her family for more than seven years.

The Chinese people are afraid that they might have to bare the cost of the medical expenses. The hospitals do not have the policy of saving lives first, money later. It's all about pay and get treated, and she even had a personal experience when my brother-in-law was taken ill in China. It was really a 'money talks' world.

I read that some readers and bloggers were blaming the mother. Some went as far as to blame her for tarnishing the name of the country. I myself am a parent and I do know that accidents like these do happen. As a parent, it's impossible to bubble-wrap our children and look out for them 24/7. So I can't understand the slugs that were tossed at the mother. Do they really know what they are talking about? As my title suggests, cast the first stone only if you think that you as a parent has never has experienced your child falling or injuring himself/herself even after constant parental nagging.

I don't think it has anything to do with race, religion nor gender of the young child. Classical bystander effect? Yes, I've been there before.

We can be chasing fame and fortune, but never stop to think how we can help others. We may fail ourselves sometimes, like the more than 18 passer-bys did. But if we, the 18 of them included) do not learn from this, then we have truly surrendered our souls of morality and have not found the purpose of our existence on earth.

Hard Truths: On Retirement and About One's Body

2011-10-16T00:16:00.000+08:00

P.405: "If you think you're going to sit down and read novels and play golf, you're foolish - you'll just go downhill. Everyday is a challenge. Everyday has problems to be solved."

"If you start to pitying yourself and say, oh why can't I go back to what I was, then you're creating misery for yourself"

P.408: Concentrate on your breathing and slow down your breathing rate - you can find yourself suddenly serene. Your pulse rate and blood pressure goes down. Get a sense of proportion that you're just a little bit of this huge universe. Ignore your face. Ignore your body, and when you are deep in meditation, forget everything."

My Australian Sojourn - Part 1

2011-10-15T01:20:00.004+08:00

I have only just realised the power of Google Street Map. I clicked furiously on the mouse, typed in the words 'Peach Street, Queensland Australia' and within seconds I had the map of the area zeroed down. Just one more click away. Eagerly, my cursor moved towards the word ' Street View', followed the street.

Lo and behold, I found the townhouse - 31, Peach Street - that my friends and I had called our home back in 1998. Euphoria engulfs me. It has been years since I last saw the house, which in the picture, sits at the far left of the picture.

It was a 2-storey house. The first level was the living room and kitchen, and the second level was three bedrooms and a study. The owner had provided us with only the white goods, meaning the refridgerator, washing machine and an oven. So it's either we buy our own furniture and utensils, or we can live off the land (Funnily, we did talk about growing our own vegetables since we had our own back yard).

Many memories we had here - both sweet and bitter. One memorable time we had was when we were first faced with a hailstorm. Coming from a sheltered country such as Singapore, we hardly had such freak weather. My friend Chris had actually visited our home and had parked his car just outside our garage as the shutter was a little faulty.

We were just chilling out when the radio alerted the residents of an impending hailstorm that was coming our way. Nonchalantly, we continued to watch our television and just that couple of times, popped our heads out of our living room sliding door to see if there's truly a change of weather.

The sky looked pregnant with dark clouds looming overhead. Then we heard, "plat!" and a while later another "plat".... hailstones!

Chris was the first to jump up, "My car is in the open". Our only hope was to move the car into our garage. We started to panic. "Where's the key? How to open the shutter?" We found the key and as much as we twisted and turned the lock, it just refused to open.

The frequency of each passing "plat" became shorter. We were desparate. We jerked it, kicked it and finally, the shutter had pity on us and relented.

Chris hopped into his car and drove straight into the garage. A close shave! This time, the ice was truly pelting the house and we were just worried that the roof might just cave-in. Still, this was far safer than if we were out in the open. And so we thought until we came up with an ingenious idea of running around in the open. What were we thinking about???

Chris and I made our first attempt but was beaten back by the multitude of ice beating upon our bare skin. Mission failed, coupled with bruising both literally and ego-wise.

We can't be defeated! So out came the pots and pans and off we went. This time, we stood out there for a glorious five seconds before we surrendered to mother nature.

I could not believe we had experienced our very first hailstorm!

Well, since I'd shared about one sweet memory, I'd just say in passing one that was very bitter. Someone broke into our house and stole all our laptops. It really peeved us off as all our notes were in our laptops. Let's leave this for another day and just reminisce the good old times that Brissie had etched in my life.

Watta Cats Life

2011-10-14T09:00:00.000+08:00

0815hr: Ginger and Gingee at about 8 months old. These darlings just love to bask in the morning sun. Sometimes I do wonder why is it that they are decked in full fur and yet, are not afraid of the heat.

I for one, do not have fur and I can surely guarantee you that I'd sweat like a hog just standing under the sun for a minute.

They truly deserve the title of 'cool cats'!

Hard Truths: Staying On Course

2011-10-09T00:25:00.000+08:00

P.341 " We will not be held hostage. We have to constantly adjust our position. Nothing stays static". Lee Kuan Yew in his reply to the United Nations pressure on Singapore to reduce carbn emission.

P.390 " I put myself down as determined, consistent, persistent. I set out to do something. I keep chasing it until it succeeds."

Note About Apple

2011-10-08T23:36:00.000+08:00

"Microsoft is a good example. If you make a product that everybody loves - you do all your market surveys, and when people don't like something about it you change it - you end up with a blend product that everybody will accept but nobody truly loves.

Apple doesn't go that way. They make something that they themselves love. They merely assume that others, too, will love what they love.

The New Paper, Saturday, October 8, 2011. P. 24. Touching for some, turn-off for others.

My 38th Birthday

2011-10-07T23:30:00.000+08:00

It's my party and I'll cry if I want to - Lesley Gore sang this song which stayed on as No. 1 on the Billboard Top 40 for 13 consecutive weeks. I did not cry but definitely I'd wanted my family to be with me on this special day.

I took a half day off but only got home at about 4pm as I'd a birthday lunch with my colleagues. I was thinking of bringing my entire family out as soon as when the rain stops. It was a wet day that we ourselves did not want to go out.

So we only left our home at 7pm as we headed to our current fav hangout - City Square. By the time we go there, we were totally famished!

Alyson said she wanted Swensens, so Swensens it was. It seemed like she'd faint from hunger. Questions came incessantly, "Papa, when is the food coming? Papa, can I play your iphone while I wait for my food?"

Jo also showed no mercy. When the food arrived, he gobbled them up, though it was only a short while as he was distracted by the ice cream that came along with the meal about 10 minutes later.

Family time is always the most important to me. Thank God for a wonderful wife and two beautiful kids!

2011-10-01T23:04:00.000+08:00

I was looking at some old maps of Singapore as I tried to locate my grandfather's home. He used to stay at 22, Sturrock Road. That's our ancestral home.

The road is no longer in existence and looking at a 1981 map, Sturrock Road used to be where the current McNair Road, Townerville is now located.

This means that during the Japanese Occupation in 1942, my grandfather was brought to Jalan Besar where there Japanese wanted to purge Chinese - those who have supported China, and also those who have worked for the British. Jalan Besar was really just a stone throw away. From there, he was taken away to be executed.

Great Grandmother's Home: Geylang Lorong 25

2011-10-01T18:18:00.000+08:00

I've been trying to gather historical information from my parents in hope that my children and future grandchildren will benefit from this information.

I have been asking for many years about my family line and history but many a times, it has been due to lack of diligence that my findings came to a pitter patter. Also, the attention span of my parents are not the longest as they may be thinking, "What's so interesting about my history".

Still, whenever I speak to them about the past, interesting nuggets of information do come forth.

In a 10 minutes quick conversation that I had with mom, she mentioned that her original place of birth was not in Geylang Lorong 40, Siang Lim Park, but her birth certificate states that she was born at her grandmother's place at 107, Geylang Lorong 25. She said that they had a big piece of land and the house was made of wood and was of tiled roof. The toilet was detached from the house and it was located a bit of a distance away.

Her mother, Lee Siew Chun was mostly located here as she would regularly play her mahjong. So I candidly mentioned that the possible reason of why she was born at my great-grandmother's place was because my late grandmother might have continued to play mahjong even just before she gave birth to my mom. Cheeky conclusion, but it might just be true.

Albert Einstein: Briilliant Words

2011-09-30T12:13:00.002+08:00

Nuff Said!

Really?

2011-09-29T22:15:00.000+08:00

I saw this on Facebook today and I thought it was really Farnieeee!!! All the might of American soldiers were required to raise a log while a Russian lady needed no help from others to do the same.

ReYAct: Teachings of Ps Chin Nam

2011-09-24T19:20:00.000+08:00

I'd gleaned much from my short discussion with Ps Chin Nam prior to ReYAct proper and the words that he has shared are all very pertinent to my life at present moment. Here're some snippets of his words of wisdom.

1. In anything that you do, it is not only passion that will bring you far, it's also God's calling.

In a very worldly view, passion in everything that you do will bring you far. But Ps Chin Nam reminded me that there are areas in life that God has called you to go even though the passion of fire may not be burning, or you may be a reluctant party. But God will give you that ability to excel and thorough this reliance on God, that we know that it is not through our strengths, but God's.

2. Cultivating my inner life

Abiding in Christ, being led by the Spirit, appointment with the Father, Rest (Sabbath) and Rhythm are how you can cultivate one's inner life.

Uncertainties in life can be very disconcerting. So having a rhythm in life helps to control these uncertainties. The other standards that need to be continually adhered can be found in the lyrics of a children song, "Read your bible, pray everyday".

Meaningful Day

2011-09-23T00:38:00.000+08:00

I took a day's leave to do it. Do what? Well, no major plans but just to do thingd that I would like to do.

1. Sleep-in since it was raining.

It's one of those days where you'd say, "Need to go to work but it's raining so heavily. How I wish that I was in bed". I grabbed that chance to sleep in. Not that I could sleep too much longer than normal. I was up only at about 8.30am - an additonal 1.5 hours of sleep.

2. Chilled-Out Breakfast

Instead of eating out, I'd wanted to just have a bowl of noodles since it's such a wet day. No shirt or pants, just what I wore for to bed. Yummy.

3. Send Aly Off to School

I'm always glad to send Aly to her school bus. I did that for her first few days of school since she was in Primary 1 and it was a momentous time. I got a chance to re-live that day and I'm happy for that opportunity.

4. Lunch with Dad & Mom

Since I can schedule my time, I gave my parents a call to ask them if they are available for lunch. They were. So I picked them up and headed towards Serangoon - Ju Bao Hong Kong Cuisine. We ordered a plate of fried rice, beef brisket and vegetable. Simple meal but very satisfying.

5. Hair Cut

I had very short hair to start of with and I felt it would be a waste of money if I'd even gone to the barber as they charge $10. My mom then told me that there was a hair salon that charges only $3.80 for each haircut. Really? The shop was called Snip Avenue and I'd just had to try it. It was truly a salon. Pretty big space and at the same time, the wait was not too long. The service was not emaculate but for that price, who's complaining. I succumbed to their sales tactic but truthfully, I paid $15.80 for the membership card and al I had to pay for each visit is 80 cents. Total cost? about $25. Which means each haircut is about $2. My mind told me, "Let's try it. At most I'd lose 15 bucks. They have also already charge my first cut to the membership card. So it's not too bad.

6. Car Tyre Issue

My front tyre had been given me problems. No matter how I inflate the tyre, it goes flat within two weeks. Visited a car servicing company near my home. Was told that I had to replace one tyre. "Too big a hole to patch" they said. So now, one fresh tyre, when I'd only changed my tyres less than a year back. That cost me $95. Just like that. #Sad

7. Supper

Since I was at home, I thought it'll be fun if I brought Aly and Jo for a walk cum supper. Changed to my track shoes, I then brought them out for a walk at about 9.50pm. We walked past an open field, a reservoir, a yet-to-be-constructed condominium, and finally arriving at a coffeeshop at about 10.15pm. Aly wanted the egg and kaya toast with coffee set. The two kids had the eggs while I gobbled up the kaya and downed the coffee.

8. Slow Jog

Satisfied after our supper, Aly, Jo and I took a slow jog back. It's been awhile since I last ran due to various health conditions and injuries. So to get a chance to run again was tremendous. When the three of us pounded the ground, it was music to my ears. We ran about 700 metres but now I know that both Aly and Jo can go that distance without stopping. We should try a longer distance. :)

Sunday Service - Home

2011-09-18T12:35:00.000+08:00

Pastor Siew Chye reflected on Ps 84. Home.

The only place that one can find rest is when God is in our hearts.
Ps 84:10 Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere.
Ps16:11 In the presence of God, there is fullness of joy. Allow God to build a home in your heart. Especially when you are tired. Allow him to restore your life.
Ps 84:5 Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. What does it mean for God to make His home in your heart? It means that we surrender our lives to God.
Ps 84:12 Lord Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you. Always leave room for God.

Batam: 3D2N (4-6 Sep 2011)

2011-09-04T10:21:00.000+08:00

While preparing this note, I just realised that I've visited Batam twice so far this year. This would be my third visit though it's the very first time that I'm staying over on this Indonesian island. We left on a Sunday and returned to Singapore on Tuesday.

It is a Good Deal @ Harris Funky
Purchased from Holiday Bagus

Adult twin sharing: $101.00 per person

3rd Adult: $78.00
Child without bed: $30.00
Infant: $18.00

Package includes:

2-way ferry tickets
2-way land transfer
2 night stay with breakfast
1 free game of bowling per room
1 free pizza per room per stay
30 minutes free bicycle ride
Free access to sauna and cold plunge pool
Free internet access
Free shuttle service to Nagoya Hill

My mom and the kids even had a ride on their tricycle. It was a fantastic deal indeed!

For more on Batam, visit my other page on http://members.virtualtourist.com/m/dd61b/12aa45/

Early Morning Swim

2011-09-03T13:27:00.000+08:00

8.33am. This was the earliest that we had ever achieved. Aly wanted extra time before her swimming lesson. I thought that my mind was still swimming in lala land. Too early for my body to function effectively.

With her confidence growing, teacher Freddie brought the entire class to the olympic sized pool. To give her additional courage and flotation, the swimming teacher allowed her to wear a rubber suit.

After a couple of laps up and down the pool, Aly said that she no longer wanted to wear the rubber suit (Supergirl?) as it caused her to itch all over. Also, it was too small for her. Growing girl I'd say.

The Economics of Happiness

2011-08-31T23:03:00.002+08:00

Once in awhile, we get these articles that reminds us of the importance of pursuing happiness than Gross National Product such as wealth creation. Here're the five rules of that Prof Jeffrey D. Sachs from Columbia University has put together.

1. We should not denigrate the value of economic progress.

When people are hungry, deprived of basic needs such as clean water, health care, and education, and without meaningful employment, they suffer. Economic development that alleviates poverty is a vital step in boosting happiness.

2. Relentless pursuit of GNP to the exclusion of other goals is also no path to happiness.

In the US, GNP has risen sharply in the past 40 years but happiness has not. Instead, single-minded pursuit of GNP has led to great inequalities of wealth and power, fuelled the growth of a vast underclass, trapped millions of children in poverty and caused serious environmental degradation.

3. Happiness is achieved through a balanced approach to life by both individuals and societies.

As individuals, we are unhappy if we are denied our basic material needs, but we are also unhappy if the pursuit of higher incomes replaces our focus on family, friends, community, compassion and maintaining internal balance. As a society, it is one thing to organise economic policies to keep living standards on the rise, but quite another to subordinate all of society's values to the pursuit of profit.
Yet politics in the US has increasingly allowed corporate profits to dominate all other aspirations: Fairness, justice, trust, physical and mental health, and environmental sustainability. Corporate campaign contributions increasingly undermine the democratic process, with the blessing of the US Supreme Court.

4. Global capitalism presents many direct threats to happiness.

It is destroying the natural environment through climate change and other kinds of pollution, while a relentless stream of oil-industry propaganda keeps many people ignorant of this. It is weakening social trust and mental stability, with the prevalence of clinical depression apparently on the rise. The mass media have become outlets for corporate "messaging", much of it overtly anti-scientific, and Americans suffer from an increasing range of consumer addictions.
Mass advertising is contributing to many other consumer addictions that imply large public-health costs, including excessive television watching, gambling, drug use, cigarette smoking and alcoholism.

5. To promote happiness, we must identify the many factors other than GNP that can raise or lower society's well-being.

Most countries invest to measure GNP but spend little to identify the sources of poor health (like fast foods and excessive television watching), declining social trust and environmental degradation. Once we understand these factors, we can act.

The mad pursuit of corporate profits is threatening us all. To be sure, we should support economic growth and development but only in a broader context: One that promotes environmental sustainability and the values of compassion and honesty that are required for social trust.

Pelicat Sarong: A Fashion Statement

2011-08-31T00:21:00.003+08:00

Picture taken from Saudi Aramco World

Pelicat Sarong. Traditionally popular with the older folks and also largely worn in the 70s and 80s as seen in the picture above.

It must provide such comfort to Singapore's President to own so many of these. You see, Mr SR Nathan wears Pelicat Sarong when he's at home. These pelicat sarongs comes from South India and are made by South Indian Muslims.

It is said that the sarong gets softer with every wash and it cost only S$8. One can purchase these sarongs at a store in Joo Chiat Complex - S.Omar Alkhatib.

Why not bring this back to fashion once again. Anyone interested to join me in this experiment of seeing how comfortable this pelicat sarong is?

Pulau Ubin: Tranquil Island

2011-08-30T17:49:00.044+08:00

Pulau Ubin - An island that is a stone-throw away from Singapore's mainland but it is so different in every way. Stepping onto the island seems to zap you into history. Nature, houses on stilts, tall coconut trees. All of which are not commonly seen on the island of Singapore.

I'd wanted to bring my family to Pulau Ubin over the weekend but the rain scuppered our plans. Also, I'd wanted to see how we can spend the least amount of money while gaining maximum enjoyment.

We started off from the Changi Point Ferry Terminal. In the past, we just waited at the pier the boatman would just call out to you to board his bumboat. Unlike now, there was no police checks or scanners. We just climb across adjoining bumboats to get to the one that was departing for Pulau Ubin.

The cost of the bumboat ride was S$2.50 per pax. It does not matter if my son was just 2 years old, as long as he can crawl, they will charge. Fair dinkum I'd say. The kids enjoyed the bumboat ride to Pulau Ubin.

It took us merely 30 minutes to get to Pulau Ubin and off we went for our walk. We took in the sights of the the Sensory Trail where different plants are grown along the trail. We even saw a well. Something that we in Singapore do not get to see anymore.

Before we head back to our beloved little red dot, we chose to fill our stomachs with some island food. So off to Pulau Ubin Seafood Restaurant we went.

Nothing fancy, we had fried rice, hor fun, a plate of vegetable and kampong chicken. All in all, we spent less than $60 for the entire trip. Good family bonding; Good value!

Presidential Election: The Winner is...

2011-08-29T00:24:00.000+08:00

Singapore. The people have spoken and really, we can't please everybody. So Dr Tony Tan has pipped the rest of the Presidential candidates - Uniquely all Tans.

Well, Dr Tony Tan and wife will soon have their faces adorn on the walls of various ministries and schools.

In last night's election, first to call quits was Mr Tan Kin Lian. The former NTUC Income CEO not only did not win, but he lost his deposit as well as his votes did not tally up to the mandated 12.5% of voters. Very disappointing for him.

Mr Tan Jee Say had the support of the opposition but still did not make it as the race was truly between the two doctors - Dr Tony Tan and Dr Tan Cheng Bock. It was so close that after the final count, Dr Tan Cheng Bock actually asked for a re-count of votes. Dr Tony Tan won by the narrowest of all margins - by slightly more than 7,000.

That means we will have Dr Tony Tan for the next six years. Well, just to leave you with some interesting quotes between friends of mine.

Person A: Pls vote wisely.
Person B: Everything been telling me to vote wisely. But I stil don't know who is wisely.

Person A: I'm gonna vote for the right tan.
Person B: Dun get sun burn.

Singapore Presidential Election: Who Will Be The President?

2011-08-28T02:04:00.000+08:00

Never have we seen four distinguished gentlemen slogging it out in Singapore's Presidential Election. It was 18 years ago that we saw a contest. The late Mr Ong Teng Cheong was taken on by Mr Chua Kim Yeow in 1993. I was still too young to vote then. But no matter, it was a no brainer as to who will be chosen then.

Mr Ong was a fighter and went on to question the government, it's reserves and his rights as a President. It was uncomfortable for the government but that was the role the President is suppose to play.

So for this election, votes have been cast and currently, it is a two-horse race between the two Dr Tans - Tony Tan and Tan Cheng Bock.

Mr Tan Kim Lian has conceded defeat earlier in the day as he realised that his numbers was much lower during the count. Mt Tan Jee Say has also said that he is behind the two Dr Tans.

It is understood that there is less than a 2% vote between them and it will go into a recount.

This is indeed a neck-to-neck fight to the finishing line. When I wake up, I'll know who the President is then.

Singapore Presidential Election: It Has Begun

2011-08-18T20:02:00.000+08:00

I received an envelope with both the names of my spouse and I listed on it. It must either be a bill or a promotional flyer of sorts. When I opened the envelope, lo and behold, a flyer with a smiling gentleman seemed to jump out. Dr Tan Cheng Bock, one of the four Singapore Presidential candidate has sent us a flyer.

The battle that will culminate in the Presidential Election on 27 August 2011, has started in earnest.

It's All About The Curry

2011-08-17T01:04:00.000+08:00

If only we could change Meja's song "it's all about the money" to "it's all about the curry". Truly, the curry issue is brewing in Singapore today.

Things are red hot as it's about a Chinese National family staying in Singapore who complained about the smell of curry coming from the neighbour's. It was said that this event happened some six years back.

Mediation was sought and it was said that the final decision was for the Indian family to cook curry only when the Chinese family is not around.

Singaporeans were up in arms, even a cabinet minister had to explain the situation, asking people not to be xenophobic.

Sensitivities are abound as Singaporeans may feel that foreigners are coming over and are not adapting. Worse still, attempting to change the ways of local Singaporeans.

Well, race and culture have always been hot potatoes. But let us not generalise things and squarely blame all foreigners. Let us be rational, please.

England Riot 2011: One Survived

2011-08-14T23:55:00.001+08:00

It was reported that during the looting in Britain, the only store left untouched in Clapham Junction was Waterstones, a book seller. This speaks volume. Reading is no longer a love.

But why is the Queen's Empire in such disarray? A country steeped in tradition and whose people are known to speak with pomp.

Well, the British first laid claim that rioters were people with foreign roots.. But truly, those arrested for looting included a young olympic athlete, a social worker and even a 12 year-old boy. The rioters also made of people of different races.

Were these people really poor? Maybe. But it seemed that a number of these people were opportunists. There was a total lack of morals. Some of them felt that it was their rights. Since the opportunity was laid in front of them, they should just do what they thought was appropriate.

There were also people who felt that society owes it to them; it is not important if these goods are actually items purchased by shop owners. They deserve it as these owners had the money.

Thugs were also present to create chaos. They talked about 'free stuff' (stolen goods) and the desire to kill the 'Feds' (Police officers). They have alot of angst.

Deaths followed, properties destroyed and Britain was in gitters. Totally surreal scene.

Sunday School: Jo Preparing Food

2011-08-14T15:15:00.000+08:00

Thought this toy was cute. It allowed Jo to cut watermelon, bread and other food stuff. Each time Jo finishes cutting the foodstuff, he would turn to me to smile. True sense of achievement!

Happy Birthday Mummy

2011-08-13T13:18:00.000+08:00

We just wanted to do something for Jac and I know that Aly would enjoy the designing of mummy's birthday cake. We bought the mid-sized cake and off she went.

The package came with a white-washed cake, different colourings and edible stars for decoration. The time spent was also a father-daughter 'me' time.

And finally, this was the final masterpiece by Aly and PaPa.

Hair For Hope

2011-08-10T23:28:00.001+08:00

I did it. There was no excuse this time as Hair For Hope came a calling at my workplace. It was great to see that people were there to lend their support to this cause, where the money goes to the Children Cancer Foundation.

After my shave, I spotted two colleagues for another department and we all looked....the same.

Here's a group photo of my students who had also gone along for a shave. Great job guys!

Hard Truths: Need to Upgrade Oneself

2011-08-10T10:23:00.001+08:00

"In today's world, your worth is determined by your skills and knowledge. You may be a genius but if you got nothing to sell in the market, how much are you worth?" Page 176

"Successful CEOs are like gems you find on a beach. There are many pebbles, many beautifully coloured ones, but they are all stones. Now and again, you will come across a real precious gem, a real emerald, pick it up, polish it. He must have a set of qualities that fits with the job, has energy, drive, ability to interact with people, ability to get people to work with him in a team." Page 181

"You get the best out of people for society by incentives and disincentives." Page 201

At The Playground

2011-08-09T17:52:00.000+08:00

Life's journey may seem trying at times. All you have to do is to trust in the Lord and continue walking.

Singapore Passport: A Cherished Book

2011-08-08T18:23:00.001+08:00

I had just collected my new biometric passport. What does biometric brings about? More expensive passport as more security features are imbibbed. Also, the validity of the short is now five years, down from the previous 10 years.

Back in the 80s, the government allowed children to piggy-back on our mothers' passports. That truly saved us quite a bit of money since we do not need to have a passport of our own. All that was needed was a photo of myself. Then we are ready to travel.

When I reached 16 years old, the validity of passport was shortened to six months. The government made it this way as they did not want us to skip military. This means that with every trip that we would like to take, we were required to head down to CMPB or SAFRA to get a stamp of extension. It was this way until we completed our military service.

Restrictive it might have looked, I still had loads of opportunity to travel both before and during my military service.

Anyway, what I had wanted to say in this post is that our Immigration & Custom Authorities are doing a great job. From the time I registered online for the new passport, it took them just three days to get it ready. What's more, the waiting time to pick up the passport was truly quick. All of 30 minutes to pick up the passport. You guys rock!

I'm now all ready to travel once again!

Quotes by Lim Siong Guan

2011-08-07T23:23:00.004+08:00

Former Economic Development Board's (EDB) Chairman shares about leadership as seen in the book, Heart Work 2.

For EDB, the leader needs to have "a high degree of self-confidence and being comfortable with change. It means keeping naysayer, cynics and sceptics at bay while creating new possiblities for Singapore...It means all the time thinking about tomorrow while making sure the goods are delivered well today (aka foresight and reliability). It means never resting on our laurels...It means imagining the possible, tenaciously pursuing it, having the courage to be different from others, and at the same time exercising humility in learning from others and from failure.

Imagination, Tenacity, Courage, Humility - this is a powerful formula for enterprise and success.

Adage of Dr Goh Keng Swee, "The only way of not making mistakes is to not do anything and that, in the final analysis, will be the ultimate mistake." (Note: We cannot be paralyse by mistakes. Meet failure head-on and see how we can improve on things further).

To unlock talent, potential and energy, every supervisor must remember the simple truth:"You are not a leader if there is no one following you."

So ask yourself the question and squarely face the truth: "Why should anyone want to follow you?"

The answer, in many ways, is quite simple, but the practice could be quite difficult. Here is the simple answer: the one who gets followers is the one who Guides (Competent), Empathises (have the heart), Engergises (no one wants to stay around the distributor of negative energy), Synergises (bosses must help their staff get work done across organisational boundaries) and Emboldens (how can new ideas come if people fear being put down?).

The difficulty in practice is because followership is an engagement of the heart - the leader must not be perceived as simply following rules of behaviour he has read in some book or other, but expressing the authencity of his concern and desire for all his people to succeed in the best way possible.

Children: School Bully?

2011-08-04T21:59:00.002+08:00

The entire story is evolving in front of me. You have heard of stories where a child is push to a brink by school bullies. But when it happens to your own child, what should you do? How do we handle the situation?

We have to give them a listening ear and know that bullying ways should not be tolerated.

Yesterday after completing her homework, Aly cursorily shared with me that a girl in the same school bus told Aly that she hated her.

"Wow, what strong language", I exclaimed. So I asked her what triggered the incident. She shared that the girls broke the rule by eating in the school bus after the bus driver has reminded the students not to do that. One of the girls was angry with her as she has ratted on them. She did not like what the girl was doing.

The girl told Aly that she will not trust her and will never be her friend. With that, the girl told Aly that she hates her. Aly told me she teared and was not sure why would anyone hate her.

The 'hate' thing continued into Day 2 where the girl banded together with another two girls. This time it got a little bit more vicious. This time, a hate letter was delivered to Aly.

Throughout the two days, Jac and I had to ensure that firstly, Aly is not affected by the bully.

1. To stand up against the bully by telling the girl that what she has done was wrong. The girl has no right to say that she hates anyone.

2. To remind her that these people's words do not matter and that she need not neccessarily be friend with the girl.

3. For Aly to be willing to continue her open sharing with parents and teachers.

4. For the issue where she received the hate letter, we told Aly that the girl did the second wrong thing - That is to channel her hate in a more vicious way.

Aly herself mentioned that teachers had shared with students that it is important to love one another. This was totally not evident in both the instances.

Secondly, we shared that we live in a wretched world and there are many different people in the world today, with different upbringing.

Finally, we pointed her to the bible where we told her that she must never do it unto others.

Get Him Out of The House!

2011-08-02T14:19:00.001+08:00

Before he starts to kill the cats, turn the house into a wall art, and destroy the entire kitchen, I took the opportunity to bring the little boy out just for him to burn off some energy.

I was scorchingly hot and we could not really proceed to the beach. We lodged ourselves under the tree and from there, Jo played a bit of sand. Guess this is one way to get him pepped down.

Appendicitis: Removing of Stitches

2011-08-02T11:42:00.002+08:00

It has been a week since my appendicitis operation and it is now time to remove my stitches. The nurse had previously changed my dressing on Friday as it was peeling off. But today is the day to remove my stitches.

I had not seen my wounds and this would be the first time seeing it, so I thought. Thinking of it now, I had actually not want to see the wound as there was still some trepidation.

As I had made an appointment previously, the wait was barely five minutes. "Good morning", chirped the friendly nurse, Nema. She then asked me to lie down on the bed and from my reaction, she could tell that I was a little tense.

Meekly, I tried to explain to her that since the operation was done around the stomach area, it was more sensitive to pain, coming to my own conclusion.

Till today, I could not understand how many stitches I had received. Altogether, I have three key holes. One is through the belly button; second is just a few centimetres below; and the final key hole was a small hole that needed just one stitch.

Nema was a calming soul as she told me step-by-step what she would be doing. Stitch by stitch, she removed the foreign body. There were some elements of pain.

Ok, here comes the picture. Do not proceed to scroll down if scars and other things scare you.

Managing Children: One of Those Days

2011-07-31T23:56:00.000+08:00

Two kids, many issues, all within a span of 30 minutes. Just a few days ago, I read an article that suggests having children do not bring you happiness, but instead, fulfillment. I agree whole-heartedly.

During rough times, happiness is far, far away from ones thoughts. I have not reached a stage where I feel like strangling them (That may come when my children become teenagers), but it gets a little tiresome.

My boy's last deed was to use the pencil to draw the wall, staight after I had told him that I do not want hime to draw on the bed. Maybe at two years old, he was none the wiser. My ultimate goal is for him to build in him integrity and self-control but guess that would take time.

Proverbs 25:15 says," Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone."

The virtues of being patient.

As for Aly, I tested her on her 听写. She got six out of seven wrong and she cried because of that. No scolding or anger on my part. But for the fact that she did not get it right the first time. I had explained to her that as parents, we do not require her to score full marks, but only for her to try her best.

But if I understand her correctly, she does not want to get anything wrong. This reminds me of what I had observed of her when she was younger. She dislikes losing. Well to be fair, nobody likes to lose. But I'm trying to gear her towards the rationale that we cannot be number one in everything that we do. She understands that. I had also told her that practice makes perfect.

Her reply to me was that the 听写 was coming up pretty soon - 5 days time. That was why, I told her, that I had to start her chinese spelling a tad bit in advance. I believe she needs repetitive learning to lock in those words. That is her style of learning.

Psalm 37:5-6 says, " Commit your ways to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun."

Bismarck: Lessons From The Past

2011-07-31T03:15:00.005+08:00

Photo taken from wikipedia

I hardly knew this battleship - the mammoth World War II German battleship, Bismarck. At most, I've seen pictures of this battleship with its jagged body paint work, on boxes of those plastic models. But today, I had a greater appreciation of the battleship after watching the entire one-hour documentary, Expedition Bismarck, produced in 2002 by director/producer James Cameron, who also the movies Titanic and Avatar.

Cameron used deep-water submarines to ascertain once and for all, whether Bismarck was sent to its watery grave by the British via torpedoes, or did the commanders of the German battleship ordered its men to scuttle it, or deliberately sinking the ship to prevent any capture or humiliation.

The results showed that even after the big battleship was pummeled by thousands of shells, the final straw that broke this 'camel' back was indeed the 'scuttling' of the battleship.

This documentary got me excited and I went on to watch at least another four to five more documentaries and that provided me with a definitive picture of the entire scene.

The 50,405 tons warship Bismarck was the darling of Hitler and the flagship of Germany. While sailing along the Atlantic Ocean in the hunt of commercial ships in May 1941, it was met with British resistance. The Royal Navy sent out their best ships to neutralise Bismarck. HMS Hood and HMS Prince of Wales went head-on with Bismarck in a roaring sea battle.

HMS Hood was known throughout the world in the 1920s-30s as the most well-equipped and advanced ship. It was the British pride. As for the Germans, they took HMS Hood as a yardstick for all their naval sea exercises. It was always the imaginary HMS Hood against the German naval forces - An enemy that was constantly in the minds of all German sailors.

But in the end, it all seemed so unreal. On 24 May 1941, it took Bismarck under 20 minutes to break HMS Hood into two, killing all (1,418 crew) but three crew members.

The British Navy closed rank and went all out for the kill. They wanted to ensure that Bismarck paid for their crime to humanity. Bismarck took some damage from HMS Prince of Wales in an earlier battle and by a twist of fate, a torpedo from a British plane crippled Bismarck's rudder. With the large battleship a sitting duck, the British sunk Bismarck with more than 2,000 volleys of rounds. Bismarck brought along its crew of 2,200 men to their deaths.

I particularly enjoyed the documentaries produced by the History Channel.

Titled Dogfight: Hunt for the Bismarck, it tells both sides of the story. But what was very telling was that both the German and British mariners gave the same chilling reply - There was no joy in this victory for either side. Why? Lives were lost; bodies were dismembered; there was no heroes in all these battles.

When we heard that the Hood was sinking, we were celebrating what we have accomplished. But then we were horrified by the devastation that was happening. We recognised that on the Hood, there were many which must have suffered a horrible death from the explosion.Lt. Cdr. Otto Schlenzka (Ret)
From the German ship, Prinz Eugen

I was witness to a scene that haunted me for many days. Almost hundreds of poor sailors, bobbling up and down in gale waters, is not a pretty sight. And when we got back to the ship, there was no euphoria because we thought to ourselves, "They're sailors, we're sailors."

Lt. Cdr. John "Jock" Mofatt (Ret)
Ark Royal, Royal Navy Reserve
Pilot of the torpedo plane Swordfish.

Popular culture movies such as Rambo glamorises killings and deaths. Young combatants bay for blood before a battle. But when reality hits home, bravado loses its meaning.

There are also other corporate learnings:-

1. Never think that you are forever invincible. The crew aboard Bismarck thought so with its superior firepower and the massive size of the ship. Further to this myth, the quick destruction of HMS Hood added to its belief of invincibility. But by a change of luck, a torpedo from an obsolete British torpedo bomber biplane crippled Bismarck. The aircraft moved slowly, but was able to keep itself stable and was flying just above sea level. Something that the sophisticated Bismarck anti-aircraft guns could not set their range on. So the moral of the story here is to try, even when things look bleak.

2. Surround yourself with people that matter. Bismarck was out in the ocean alone, with only Prinz Eugen in company. The British knocked the Bismarck around. If the battleship had its cruisers, destroyers and support ships in attendance, things may not be as critical. The others would have helped to absorb the blow.

Hard Truths: Selecting Top Leaders

2011-07-29T23:53:00.002+08:00

From former Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew's point of view, here're the definitive qualities that a leader should possess:-

High IQ, EQ, leadership stamina, determination, resourcefulness; someone who understands the business.

Page112.

Can a leader possess all these qualities and more? Most likely. Still, the qualities that one should look at goes beyond just high IQ. They must be able to engage the people, empathise with the people and also have dogged determination in the face of hardship.

Rich and Depressed

2011-07-29T10:02:00.004+08:00

In a global collaborative study that looked at depression and social conditions in 18 countries, researchers found that while depression has a similar debilitating effect on people worldwide, wealthier nations tend to have a higher incidence of depression among their citizens when compared with middle-income or poorer nations.

On average, 15 percent of the population in wealthier nations suffered from depression over the course of their lifetime as compared with 11 percent for the less wealthy nations.

Courtney Hutchison, ABC News.
Extracted from:
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/Depression/countries-money-buy-happiness/story?id=14155734

The key to an explanation for the difference lies in expectations. People in the poorer countries have basic expectations beginning with food, clothing and shelter that, when met, create immense satisfaction. People in richer countries by and large take these expectations for granted and begin with a set of second-order aspirations that are more difficult to satisfy. The result is a sense of unease over their place in the scheme of things. Over time, and aggrevated by personal difficulties, this unease can spill over into depression.

For citizens of wealthier nations, the answer lies in making life-choices that keep expectations realistic. Materialism has its uses, but happiness is not the inevitable result of possessions. Happiness is more assuredly the result of leading a productive and meaningful life that is not cut off from the concerns of society at large.

In this context, volunteerism is a great antidote to the loneliness and alienation amidst plenty that is the curse of rich nations. Volunteerism makes the individual feel wanted in the lives of others. t provides a release from the relentless utilitarianism of the market becuase it enables the volunteer to treat other humans as ends and not as means - and to be so treated himself.

As countries move up the trajectory of development, today's problems in the First World will become tomorrow's problems in the Third World. There is no way to stop the escalator. If mental issues including depression are any indication, the challenge for people everywhere wil lie in holding on to the meaning of happiness - that it is self-defined.

Appendicitis Attack

2011-07-28T00:14:00.002+08:00

A sudden pain and all I knew was that it was not going away after all that I've tried - going to the toilet, rubbing medicated oil, the works.

The entire episode happened on Monday, 8.30pm. I was having a foot massage when I told my wife that my stomach felt a bit funny. Thinking that it might be my gastric juice churning, we went for dinner. Had mee siam and I'm very sure that the sourish-ness and the spice only went on to aggrivate the pain.

Reaching home, I was literally laid flat as moving about brought such pain. I waved my white flag and told my wife that I needed to see a doctor. We left home at about 11pm (Things somehow always happen in the middle of the night) and we visited a 24-hour clinic down in Hougang and very quickly the doctor suggested that I head down to the hospital - Khoo Teck Puat Hospital in Yishun was the nearest.

The prognosis by the doctor there, suspected acute appendicits, and I needed to be warded immediately for observation. Lying on the bed, I just said my prayers, leaving everything in the good hands of God. The nurse placed me on a drip, coupled with anti-biotics and the effect was quite immediate - I could not read words that were printed on the forms. It was all blurred. I closed my eyes.

Jac was there throughout the wee hours to iron out the administrative details while lucky ol me was resting on the bed. The nurse, believe her name is Nur Ilayah, then checked me into my room on the 8th level. She's a graduate of the school I'm working in. Great! By the time Jac and I got some shut eye, it was already 4am.

Jac then left for home at about 6.30am to get my belongings. By 7.30am, there was a flurry of activity in my room. First a lady doctor came in to speak to me. Then Dr Michael shared with me a little about the procedure. The third doctor, whom I understand that he is the registrar, spoke to me about the entire procedure.

Finally, the entire entourage led by Dr Reyaz, rode into the room. The younger doctors listened intently while he spoke to me, asking me about my pain and where it was located. He confirmed that I needed to do a CT Scan. Radiation to the max!

Auntie Quee Eng, a 63 years old lady was on hand to roll me out on a wheelchair. She has worked in Alexandra Hospital for about 30 years and she has a daughter who was a teacher. At first, I felt quite awkward allowing the auntie to push me, apologising along the way for causing her so much trouble.

Completed the CT Scan, and Auntie Quee Eng was there to roll me back to my room. Confirmed, I had to go for my operation and lady doctor was back to share about the procedure. She said that it was early appendicitis ans she said that it was neccessary to remove it. The operation would be performed within the same day as it was placed as an emergency. Prior to her coming in, I'd checked wiki to better understand the entire works - key hole surgery and all. I was told that I'd be rolled in by 4pm.

I fell asleep and was awoken from my slumber when a nurse came in to tell me that it's time. I was in a daze and barely awake. Everything happened in a jiffy - operating garb, wheel-chair bound, I did not even have time to say, "I gotta pee" until I reached just the outside of the operating theatre. Thank goodness that sanity prevailed.

Bright white lights awaited me. Things were familiar. I was operated on when I was younger and the entire settings brought back plenty memories. Class 92.4 was playing. Calm; serenity.

Dr Michael gave me last minute instructions about what needle he'd be poking into me and removing of this and that. I replied with a weak joke, "You guys can do anything, I wouldn't know". As flat as a stale mug of beer.

The anesthetican came in and told me to breathe in. I'd also feel a warm feeling in my right arm as he injected some chemical. I complained that the needle previously inserted by a nurse was causing me pain (She has doubled the dosage and the fluid was pumping it into my vein double-quick time). Within five breaths, I was out cold. The next thing I know, I was in the resting room at 8pm. "Mr Adrian, time to wake up". I barely could.

Still dazed, they rolled me back to my room to rest, which I took to full advantage. I slept to 4am and was wide awake by the beeping of equipment. For the next two hours, the equipment continued to beep intermittently. Everytime it does that, I'd to press the call button. The nurses were truly patient, coming in to change the saline bag, take my blood pressure, etc. They changed my wrist tag from a white to green, indicating that I may have the tandency to fall or faint when standing. By the grace of God, nothing of this sort happened.

I had my first meal in the morning - full liquid meal. With all the care, I was discharged this afternoon and am now resting at home.

The doctors and nurses at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital are really angels. Thank you Dr Reyaz, Dr Michael, Auntie Quee Eng, Uncle Lee, nurses who took care of me at Ward A82 - Cute spectacled Jasmine, Pei Pei, Apple, and everyone else who were there.

God bless you guys.

Lee Hsien Loong: Meaning of Home

2011-07-18T23:46:00.004+08:00

Photo taken off MyPaper.
http://news.asiaone.com/News/AsiaOne%2BNews/Singapore/Story/A1Story20110718-289652.html

I really love the way Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong envisage the meaning of home and I agree with him wholeheartedly. He shared this during his visit to the Ang Mo Kio Community Heritage Trail on Sunday, July 17, 2011.

"Home means you must have some memories, you must have shared experiences and you must have some sense of where we came from, why we are here, what it means to us."

Family Photo At The KTM Train Station

2011-07-17T19:35:00.011+08:00

This was the final day before the tracks are entirely closed to the public. Since we were heading to IMM for dinner, I thought it might be great to make a stop at Bukit Timah KTM Station to pay our final homage.

Giants of the World

2011-07-16T20:42:00.000+08:00

These shots were taken at Downtown East. The kids said they wanted to be giants. So I made them one. : )

Are We There Yet?

2011-07-16T17:29:00.001+08:00

Currently the cranes are out, but it seems like there is not much progress. Well, it will be another two years wait.

Post Swimming Activity

2011-07-16T13:14:00.000+08:00

Aly's class would take an hour. Afterwhich, you can find her at the water slide. Aly will ask me for "extra time" to try out the slides.

Prior to her swimming lessons, she would not even want to enter the water, what's more take the water slide. She's now a changed little girl - daring to take the taller water slides.

I'm super proud of her!

Retaliation!

2011-07-15T23:05:00.001+08:00

After dinner at Changi Airport Terminal 3, Jo Jo dashed out of the food court without a care in the world. I think none of us really chased him except for Che Che who had wanted to stop him from running.

It was evident that Che Che could of course catch up with him. But instead of catching his hand, Aly accidentally pushed him from behind, causing the boy to fall. Naturally he cried. But what came up next was something unexpected.

He walked towards Aly and was trying to kick her. He was trying to retaliate. Definitely not something that I would want to see and I told him without any reservation. As what I'd always tell Aly, there are other ways of solving issues without the use of violence.

KTM-Singapore Railway: Many Thanks...

2011-07-15T16:03:00.000+08:00

I would like to thank my trusted shoe. Braving the rain, gravel, rocks and sand, my beloved pair of shoes brought me to greater heights. Without it, my feet would have died along the way.

I ran with this pair of shoes and it did not disappoint me, even after seeing so many lost soles of other shoe make. There were even shoes that people had abandon along the way. But my beloved shoes stuck to me like kaya toast and bread, like wanton and char siew, like, ok you get my drift!

Thank you my wonderful shoe!

KTM-Singapore Railway: Towards Tanjong Pagar, Finally!

2011-07-15T14:05:00.000+08:00

I was reaching the tail end of my walk and was very grateful to my trusty iPhone4 and its google map. If not, I would not know how long more I would have to walk. This is the Lower Delta Road bridge.

What was interesting here were these little 'waterfalls' as I call them. It resonated within the confines of the tunnel and it created this aura of tranquility - right beside a railway track.

This is also one sign that we will soon no longer see within Singapore. I'm not the best translator of the malay language, but I'll try, "Have you tested the brakes of your train?"

Suddenly, things became more exciting for me even though there was hardly a soul around that area. First, there were three tracks that were lined up side-by-side. These tracks would allow trains to idle while the inbound train enters the train station.

Looking at the railway lines, you'd somehow think about life and how sometimes it can be that complicated. Coming from the left, moving out from the right. It just get so complicated.

Moving along, I caught sight of a sign reminding us not to trespass. It was definitely dangerous when the trains were running and those who used the tracks do so at their own peril. Some have also lost their lives doing that.

So this was as far as I could go. Anywhere from this picture forth, it was considered state land. The Tanjong Pagar Train Station was just located less than a kilometre away.

KTM-Singapore Railway: Towards Alexandra

2011-07-15T13:05:00.000+08:00

This one one of the wider bridges that I'd came across. Above me, it served as a link towards Queensway township and the Ayer Rajah Expressway.

I'm quite sure that old houses like those on the left of the pictures and the signal lights below, will be very quickly torn down and new development will rise.

Anyway, the walk from here was a hard one as there was nothing much to see and the track was just heading straight.

KTM-Singapore Railway: Towards Commonwealth

2011-07-15T12:12:00.000+08:00

Passing by the science hub of Singapore - The Biopolis, the sky started to open up once again. At this point, it was interesting to see the new (Our MRT) intersecting the old (Train tracks).

Moving along, I came by two old blocks of flats - Block 79 and Block 76 at Commonwealth Drive. It must have been a bitter-sweet experience for those flat dwellers as though the noise of the KTM train could no longer be heard, the loss of anticipation of knowing that the train will be coming may be deafening.

Ditto for these dwellers in these blocks of flats along Commonwealth Drive that I believe was built in the 1960s and early 70s.

I continued my walk. Taking a closer look, these metal rails, fasteners and sleepers will all be removed and returned to Malaysia. These sleepers as you can see, are made of concrete and it has the letters KTM stamped on it. The ballast (Or rocks) are used to ensure that water and wildly-grown plants do not hinder the movement of the trains.

KTM-Singapore Railway: Towards Bouna Vista

2011-07-15T11:49:00.001+08:00

To infinity and beyond. The rain has abated and the path was pretty clear. So off I went. The gravel was giving me a bit of problems as my right ankle has not fully healed from the injury that I sustained in one of my soccer matches and the ankle was starting to ache. But things just took away my attention.

First was the grafitti wall that laid hidden from the general public. This was the tunnel along Bouna Vista. The second thing that took away my attention to my aching ankle was a wake that was happening at one of the blocks along Ghim Moh. The tune was ringing in my mind - Yue Liang Dai Biao Wo De Xing. It was very surreal as there I was walking along the track just next to the HDB flat, I somehow felt that I was also a part of that wake. I said my prayers for the deceased and continued to move on.

KTM-Singapore Railway: Towards Jelita

2011-07-15T11:11:00.002+08:00

The sky still looked threatening. Along the way, I saw a couple all geared up and ready for rain. They had their raincoats on while walking the tracks. I jogged past them and was heading towards Jelita. After passing the tunnel, I ran another 200 metres or so but could not proceed further as the light rain very quickly turned to full blown shower.

I turned back and went towards the tunnel for shelter. There, I saw the well-covered couple. Three slightly elderly men and a group of young ladies also used the tunnel as a refuge. Even those who had umbrellas were no match for nature's fury.

All those stranded just had to wait for the rain to ease off. In the centre of all these commotions, there was a jogger that ran past us, braving the rain. I thought of doing that too, but in truth, I hate soggy shoes.

So I just have to be a good boy and wait for the rain to pass.

KTM-Singapore Railway: Towards Holland Road

2011-07-15T11:05:00.000+08:00

Moving on from the Bukit Timah train station, I started my run. The weather was great and I really felt that running would not only help cover the ground in a much quicker fashion, I could also stop as and when I spot something interesting.

Like these pile of abandoned wooden blocks that were most probably used to hold the metal rails together. These were located near the track turning leading towards Holland Road.

Or this intricately designed bridge that hides the calm flowing waters that goes beneath it.

It took me about 30 minutes to get to Holland Road. By then, pellets of raindrops had started to fall, and people took shelter. But the heavens kept away the downpour and so I continued on my journey.

KTM-Singapore Railway: Walk, Jog, Run

2011-07-15T10:34:00.000+08:00

The government will be closing the railway tracks in a few days time, and what better way to pay my tribute to the grand ol dame than by walking the rail.

The day started off pretty well - Bright and sunny. I parked my car at Rifle Range Road and from here, my journey towards Tanjong Pagar begins.

Walking on the track took a little getting use to. The gravel made walking a tad bit difficult. "I will get use to it", I told myself. First off, crossing the railway bridge that I gone past many a times. But this time, the feeling was a bit different as it'll be my first time walking from Bukit Timah all the way to Tanjong Pagar.

First stop, the Bukit Timah Railway Station. Coming to the station, the one sign that you should not miss will be the Bukit Timah signboard. It tells you that to the left, you'll reach Singspore, hile to the right, it'll bring you to Woodlands and beyond.

A Call From Aly's School

2011-07-12T23:52:00.001+08:00

Received a call with a number that showed it was from Aly's school. I was like uh-oh, is Aly's teacher looking for me? At the end of the line was Aly asking me if she can buy stickers!

How could I say no? So I replied," Ok. But don't spend more than $2."

Aly said, "I'll call u back if I buy the stickers".

When I returned from work. I cheekily asked her if she has purchased the stickers.
She said no. Huh? Why? "Not enough money".

"Can't be!" I said.

I went to check her purse and showed her that she has one $10, and a couple of $2 notes.

She went, "ohh, I didn't know that. The $2 worth more than 60 cents?" ;)

Love this girl!

Outing For The Siblings

2011-07-09T23:53:00.000+08:00

Aly had her regular swimming lesson but we wanted to do something out of the regular. So I packed Aly into the car, drove her back home so that we could pick the entire family.

We had brunch at WhiteSands's Xin Wang's Hong Kong Cafe and the food we had were largely timsum.

Then off to the library where both siblings sat down for a quick read. Guess it was more of paper flipping for Jo then reading. But the boy did have his own fun at the end.

He met a couple of his friends - Bert and Ernie!

Night Safari: Tourists For A Night

2011-07-06T23:50:00.000+08:00

My sis-in-law and family from Ireland stopped by in Singapore for a visit. So we took the opportunity to bring them to the Night Safari. Aly was most happy as that meant she did not have to do her homework for the night.

Both families squeezed into my car and off we went in search of the wild.

First stop, six semi-naked man with real six pack performed for the crowd. You could hear the oohs and the ahhs as they performed some dangerous fire stunts. Thought the body was something to die for!

Jo, as usual, is afraid of nature's elements, rain water, fire, wind. So he did not fancy the fire play and was largely absent during the performance. Moving along, we went for an animal show - furry creatures, hyenas, it was one big exciting circus out there. The show was indeed well co-ordinated.

As we did not have many hours and it was also a tad bit humid for us to walk around, we paid for the tram ride. I'd say well worth the money. The children got to see the animals without the sweat! : )

Terracotta Warriors in Singapore: Worth A View

2011-07-06T18:20:00.003+08:00

This was one exhibition that I'd marked on my calendar as a "To-do". I really do not know when will I have the opportunity to visit the actual terracota site. So when Singapore's Asian Civilization Museum organised this exhibition (Beyond the fact that I had free access to the museum), I just had to take a look at these ancient masterpiece. This was also the very first time that the Chinese 'soldiers' were brought to Singapore.

I coincided my visit with a guided tour as I knew little about the artifacts and exhibits.

There, a sweet lady by the name of Lorena took us through the tour. She was part of a group of volunteers who made great effort to learn about each and every piece of history on display. After the tour I had a great chat with Lorena and another volunteer - Helen. We spoke not of Chinese history, but about why they volunteered to be guides and that even at their golden age, they are still such precious gem for their true dedication to the museum.

So if you'd to ask me, the reason why the exhibits are so well worth visiting is largely due to the excellent guides that the museum have. Thumbs up.

Ok, let me share about some interesting pieces that the museum has put together.

Standing tall, you'll see the General. Differentiating himself with the tassles that he adorns, the statue is also a tad bit taller than the rest. This is one of the many thousand clay soldiers that guarded the tomb of China most famous Emperor, Chin Shi Huang Di.

Lorena shared that the soldiers were once brightly painted but due to the effects of time, all that were left were the greyish clay figures.

There was also the archer, the charioteer and also foot soldiers, all frozen in time.

All these terracotta warriors carried real weapons. Spears, bows and arrows, and even helberds or 'a long wooden pole topped by a pointed spearhead, with an attached dagger-axe as seen in the picture above. Fierce, right?

So to get a taste of China, drop by the Terracotta Warrior exhibition over the Asian Civilization Museum. Opens from June 24 to October 16, 2011.

Where's The Tooth Fairy?

2011-07-04T23:20:00.000+08:00

Aly wondered why tooth fairy only appears in the western country. My sis-in-law who resides in Ireland, told her children that when one the teeth falls off, a tooth fairy will replace the tooth with money.

I told her that does not happen in Singapore. She asked me why. Well, I was just thinking to myself. If they are Asian tooth fairies, the fairy themselves would have spent it in the casinos! What gamblers asians are! Kidding!

This very morning, Aly had two very shaky teeth - one front and the other a tad beep deeper.

This very evening, Aly said that while eating a piece of chicken, the tooth finally came lose. So one dropped out by itself and now we are left with one. : )

We'll still bring her to the dentist to get her teeth checked.

A Place to Visit - Lion City Hotel and Hollywood

2011-07-03T15:54:00.002+08:00

Read from the newspaper that these two iconic buildings in Geylang will be re-developed with the food stalls moving out by the end of this month. Time is slowly reclaiming historical buildings and the last that was reclaimed was the railway line from Tanjong Pagar to Woodlands.

Time to draw out my camera once again. : )

Joash Improved Motor Skill

2011-07-03T15:27:00.001+08:00

This morning while Jac and I were lazing on our bed, we heard the sound of someone trying to open the door. A little crackle here, and a little knock there and ala kazaaam, the door swung open.

In came a little boy called Joash, aged 2 years 4 months. He had turned the door knob and was able to open the door. Unconvinced, I dragged him out and asked him to demonstrate to me his entire actions. He was more than happy to show us his prowess!

Seen on Today newspaper, 1 July 2011 - KTM

2011-07-01T20:03:00.000+08:00

The curtains were drawing to a close, and I was there at the Bukit Timah Railway Station to witness the last few trains rolling by. Wonderful people I met among the way. More than obliging Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) staff who answered my every question, and a true history-in-a-making moment that will never ever be repeated again.

I'd pointed my camera at the train and with this picture in the newspaper, it showed that a reporter's camera was pointing at me too, not that I knew of it.

But the picture tells a story. It has placed me as one of those who was there to bid the trains and its station a good farewell.

History in the Making: Sungei Kadut Level Crossing

2011-06-30T13:05:00.000+08:00

Next stop, Sungei Kadut Level Crossing. I'd parked my car at the industrial park and walked towards the railway track. It was still raining and it made it a little more cumbersome as I needed to carry an umbrella.

When I neared the railway track, the railway staff was just lowering the barrier and stopping the cars from moving. A trolley rolled by with a couple of people on board. Guess it's a time where everyone wants to get a ride.

After the 'dust' has settled, I walked towards the hut and there, I was greeted by Azman. A young looking chap, Azman shared that he has been at this level crossing for the past three years.

Adding to history, he mentioned that this hut was here even before he was born. I entered the wooden hut to have a look. Most of the equipment there were quite modern. Maybe the hut stayed the same as it was 20 to 30 years ago. After this, I'd be heading to the Kranji Level Crossing.

History in the Making: Kranji Level Crossing

2011-06-30T12:48:00.003+08:00

I've driven past this path many a times. This is the road you will take if you want to visit the wetlands of Sungei Buloh. It's also where my car mechanic is located when I need to send my car for a major repair.

Crossing this road required quite a bit of patience as it was a narrow one-lane crossing that allowed cars on either side to move along. I was caught in that 'jam' for about 10 minutes. Trodding along when the traffic light was in our favour.

I parked my car a slight distance away and walked towards the railway line. A little yellow hut stood out from the generally flat ground around that area. I approached it with as much excitement as a young child receiving his first toy. "What will I see? Whom will I meet? What will I say?".

All these questions were running in my head. I was unsure if the people in the yellow hut would entertain me, or would they chomp off my head like how a cannibal would. But all my fears proved unfounded.

The person I met was no cannibal, but a sweet young man by the name of Razali who have been working at the same site for seven years. I stepped into the signal hut and was greeted with equipment of the bygone era.

Razali would have to note down the timings of the trains once they pass the hut. He has also been given a schedule of trains coming from both directions - Tanjong Pagar and Woodlands - Everyday is a graceful "dance" of interchanging movements.

Razali uses this wound-up telephones to speak to the train's next 'port-of-call' - To the north, Woodlands, and to the south, Sungei Kadut.

Sitting next to the phone was a old-fashioned battery charger. It truly looked like it has seen better days.

Stepping out of the hut, I observed barriers that help to control the flow of traffic. Manually, Razali had to move the barriers to stop the traffic, allowing vehicles to move only after the train has left.

Once the gate has been shut tight, Razali would walk over to the lever frame and thug it in the opposite direction to ensure that the correct signals and points were all locked-in.

I stayed all of 30 minutes and the chat that I had with Razali was definitely as refreshing as the light morning shower. Razali has now moved to Klang, Malaysia to continue his career along the railway line after diligently completing his final task at the Kranji Level Crossing.

History in the Making: Train Tracks At The Causeway

2011-06-30T10:22:00.002+08:00

Nothing could have dampen my day, not even the unrelentless rain.

It was the day where I chased trains; spoke to the railway staff who are now true history makers; and just to soak in the atmosphere as the Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) trains make their last passage. The geek in me has arisen! I slinged on my haversack and off I went in search of the tracks well-trodden.

First stop, Woodlands Causeway. This was truly where it all began. The first trains that linked both Singapore and Malaysia in 1923.

Standing at Admiralty Road West, I looked out towards the causeway. Rain and mist dictated that I'd have a slightly obscure view of the railway line that runs parallel to the causeway.

This Woodland line now becomes the de facto. On the other hand, residentsliving along Woodlands to Tanjong Pagar will no longer hear the roar of trains in their vacinity ever again.

Whilst this stop accorded me with a good vantage point to see Malaysia in its full glory, I had also unearth a gem - A lovely Admiralty Park - The 30 minutes I spent there was a time of silence and being along with myself. The park has been nicely done up and it is one place that you may want to bring your children along to just stroll and run around.

Everton Boys For The Future

2011-06-22T23:24:00.003+08:00

I freed up some time today to catch the Singapore U16 versus Everton U15 match. I'd to skip the first match as I'd wanted to spend time with my family. But since the final match for Everton's U15, I thought I'd give the team some support.

The game against Singapore's U16 did not really rock the stadium but at least, two of my army buddies were there with me. Great fun! Well, I can only dream of bringing Jo to watch a soccer match when he's maybe 10 years old. Realised that kids at a younger age may have a hard time appreciating soccer. What's more, the game is about 2 hours long (Inclusive of the 15 minutes hald-time).

Up, Up and Away!

2011-06-22T00:25:00.001+08:00

The flying night kites and even LED-lighted model planes have made its presence felt in Singapore. It is still not for the masses as it requires a certain amount of skill to keep both the kites and the model aircraft in the air.
In comes a helicopter-like device that's requires no prior knowledge of flight-control. A little fold here, a little twist there, and this contraption is ready to go.

This lil cutesy also comes with a blue LED light. Hook it up to the simple launcher and you now have a flying night helicopter. I brought it out to the field and my two kids have a whale of a time trying to catch the descending 'craft'. Once you launch it, the contraption will soar to the height of about a four-storey building before rotating itself back to earth.

What's more, it's such a steal! I bought it from Malacaa's Jonker Street night market for only RM5. The contraption is a little flimsy but hey, what can you ask for for RM5?

Jo's First Haircut at the Barber's

2011-06-21T20:28:00.000+08:00

Usually, Mama Jenny would give him a snip. But it's time for this boy to be shipped off the the friendly neighbourhood barber.

New Additional To My Family

2011-06-14T22:19:00.000+08:00

Here's our new addition - a $355 (Inclusive of remote control and installation). We had purchased stand fans and even industrial fan. But one issue, we had a lack of space. So what do we do? Hang as many things on the wall or ceiling as possible.

Though we are moving in a couple of years time, this might just be among the best investment for our home.

Lest We Forget - Tiananmen Square of 1989

2011-06-04T15:04:00.002+08:00

Today marks the 22nd anniversary of the Tiananmen massacre. About 3,000 Chinese residents lost their lives those official report claimed it to be about 300. As the saying goes, "One life lost is one too many".

In 1989 - The country that was closed to the world, suddenly had to handle a crisis where the eyes of the world were peering in.

Freedom of speech, economic reforms. These were some demands made by students and the intellectuals of China. The group grow into more than just a mere protest. It became a massive demonstration with workers joining in the demonstration.

That year, I was taking my O Levels and what had happened then was not really a concern for a country that was part of my family's history since I'm a Chinese, but not a part of my life. I'm a Singaporean and not a Chinese National.

But I still remember all that had happened were reported in our dailies and television news. The images of Goddess of Democracy are still etched in my mind. Built over four days using just styrofoam and paper marche, the 10-metre statue stood tall and fully assembled by May 30, 1989.

Something big was brewing in a country known as "Middle Kingdom" and I thought it was an uprising that would surely bring down the government. Chinese citizens were united in their chants and singing. Troops sent in by the government were repelled not by guns, but by sheer determination of the people in not allowing trucks and armoured personnel carriers to pass through. Victory to the people.

But what started to develop on 4th June shocked the world. The soldiers encircled Tiananmen Square and started shooting, killing protestors by the dozens. None of those video footages during the crackdown reached the world. Subsequently, photos smuggled out from China appeared in newspapers.

What I'd thought was impossible became inevitable. What I thought could not have happened, did. It brings to mind how brutal the world can be. It brings to mind the very master plan of Sun Zi, whom in the bid to train gentle women into fighting machine, made scapegoats of those who failed to listen to him. They were gamely executed.

'The tank man' was also symbol of defiance, and triumph of man over machine.

On 5 June when four tanks rolled onto to the road, 'The tank man' jumped in front of the lead tank, stopping it in its tracks. The 'tank man' swung his bag of what looked like groceries, in an attempt to ask the tanks to leave. The lead tank tried to skirt the man but to no avail. Finally the 'tank man' was dragged away by what seemed to be concerned citizens.

Joash Receives Two Stitches

2011-06-03T23:55:00.000+08:00

Heart-wrenching. Jo fell while running and he hit his head on a sharp corner. Two deep gash - one on top of his head and another, on his forehead.

We called a clinic and they advised us to send him to Kadang Kerbau Women and Children Hospital (KK) as they would have the neccessary equipment to hold him down.

We arrived at KK at about 9.45pm. The nurses placed a big piece of gauze that was filled with pain killing gel in preparation for him being patched up. The doctor only called us in at about 11.30pm.

Jo was strapped down and the boy really struggled, with much tears in his eyes. He was just so afraid, calling out, 'Papa, Mommy'. We were helpless and could only stroke him gently to comfort him.

The doctor then gave him two stitches. It was one of those very uncomfortable things in life that as parents, I had to grapple with.

Day 2: Breakfast

2011-05-27T08:20:00.002+08:00

Food = Sustenance and what better way to start our day with a good traditional Pinoy food. We were up and ready for breakfast at 7.30am. Presented on the table was a cake-like thing called kusinta or brown rice cake, coupled with freshly grated coconut.

It was not heavy on the stomach - sticky and chewy. Lovely.

Day 1: End of the Day

2011-05-26T19:38:00.000+08:00

The sun was setting and it was a tiring but exciting day. The place that we were staying was in the midst of the rice plantation. So the view was really magnificant.

Jon Jon had suggested that maybe we can head down to town to experience what it is like. Cheers could be heard from all corners. We'll get to ride in a tricycle and also get to see civilization, and in civilized world, you would have 7-Eleven! The tricycles ride costs 100 pesos. Wind in my hair, the smell of fumes, you would know that you have arrive in Philippines.

Reaching the convenience store, we unleashed our inner inhibitions - crackers, ice cream, cold drinks, we nearly emptied the shelves.

After about 20 minutes, we returned via the tricycle for dinner. Nola once again prepared a very solid Filipino meal of fishes and pineapple slices. Lovely.

Day 1: Lunch and Fellowship at Nasugbu, Bantangas

2011-05-26T13:42:00.004+08:00

Our hosts - Jon Jon and Nola readied our lunch once we reached their home. Wanting to give us a taste of Philippines, Nola prepared the local fav pineapple chicken adobo coupled with cut carrots and sweet-tasting mangoes.

We savour every bit of the food that were laid on the table. The hosts also chose to eat only after we have taken our food. Really sweet of them. We had to contend with the many flies that were attracted to the food on the table. But nothing, not even the flies, could stop us from having our lunch. Praise the Lord for a safe journey from Singapore to Batangas, Philippines.

As the saying goes, music sooths the savage beast. We were introduced to 'anaconda', meaning growling stomach. So once the food was in our tummies, music became the order of the day.

We sang songs of praise for two full hours!

Day 1: Quick Bite at Jollibee

2011-05-26T12:28:00.003+08:00

One thing that we were prepared for was that there would be rice everywhere we went. So it was rather interesting when I ordered a one piece chicken that came with steamed rice. Come to think of it, the rice was actually quite delicious. It was really piping hot.

It was also an interesting way of having a rice dish. A mouthful of rice would be followed by a small piece of chicken.

Day 1: Trip to Nasugbu, Batangas

2011-05-26T11:34:00.001+08:00

After leaving the airport, we drove towards Nasugbu, Batangas. We were welcomed with a traffic jam and also, the sight and sounds of Manila, Philippines.

Day 1: Flying Into Batangas, Philippines

2011-05-26T09:55:00.005+08:00

The missions team gathered at Changi Terminal 1 at 4am. Hardly had any sleep but we were all ready to go.

I'd my final meal in Singapore - Nasi Lemak and then off we went.

We caught some shut-eye in the aeroplane. One issue though, the seats could not be reclined. Still it was good enough for me.

Finally saw land. It looked like a lovely volcanic island.

Youthful Stress?

2011-05-22T15:53:00.003+08:00

Are students more pressurised now than 20 years ago? Are parents comparing their children against others? Is being the best in studies all there is to a youth?

These questions surrounds the death of a very sweet-looking 18-year old girl who committed suicide as she was dissappointed with her 'A' Level results.

Psychologist Daniel Koh feels that teens have it worse now. " Previously, a teen is happy with just a pass. But now, just passing is not good enough. They need to do their best." Pressure has been in existence all our lives - from the NASA staff who first launched their rocket in the 50s, to the warriors who had to fight each other in 200BC, all these people go through stress.

"When they cannot manage, the stress level goes up. And it becomes a vicious cycle. They feel helpless to do anything and this spirals into a bigger problem."

For the teen cases that Dr Adrian Wang see, he said that about 75% will share about academic problems, whether they are straight A students or those who are not doing well.

So why do people put so much emphasis on what is supposedly not the most important thing in life? Mr Daniel Koh shared that some people attach a lot of value to things that compensate for their "imperfect" life.

As the person in the middle of the storm, one must find a way to retreat to a sacred place; somewhere that you will feel at ease. Bring yourself out of this fast-paced world for a moment. Re-focus to know what is most important in life. Never condemn yourself.

Gather your friends around you. Draw from their positive influences so that you can talk things out. Allow them to take some load off your burden. After that, the things that were bothering you may not look so daunting after that.

As parents, we must always look out for this symptom. Some children are perfectionist. Some just feel that no matter what they do, they are still not good enough. Give your all to encourage them; priase them. Build in them a self-confidence.

For our part, we surely have to also ask ourselves, "Are we pushing them too hard?" "Are we getting them to be what we could not be in the past?" "Is it really for their own good?"

Ministerial Pay Review - A Citizen's View

2011-05-22T15:23:00.002+08:00

It has been a hot topic during the recent May elections. Ministerial salary is back on the agenda again. Are they over-paid? I can understand the amount paid for some ministers and maybe even the Prime Minister as he holds a pretty important decision-making position. But for the President to be paid S$4.2m? That works out to more than $300,000 a month.

The review committee led by Mr Gerard Ee has to see if the person in these positions, have to make difficult decisions. How are they contributing to the country.

Ever since 1994, Singapore ministers have been drawing top salaries. The defence of the high salary has always been entrenched with the rationale that to attract good and un-corruptable ministers, you'll need to pay them high salaries.

It has been debated in the parliament, and the issues have been brought up by Worker's Party Sylvia Lim. But the government was not listening. What was a slight disapproval from the citizens soon showed its fangs during the elections. Two good incumbent ministers were lost and the entire Aljunied Group Representation Constituency fell to Worker's Party.

As Mr Gerard Ee aptly sums it up, "You must look at whether the pay is worth the effort and energy invested in it. People have to ask themselves, "If my son is the one doing the job, is that (amount) a fair salary?"

Aly's Achievement - Moving in the Water

2011-05-14T11:31:00.002+08:00

Aly was totally elated. She came up to me to say, " Papa, I can see underwater and I can hold my breath".

From the very first time where she did not even dare to step into the water at age four, to a mature young girl of six who can now move in the water on her own. She achieved this in just her second swimming lesson. I'm so proud of her.

Simple Things In Life

2011-05-13T23:17:00.000+08:00

After a nice light showery rain. All was silent. To add to the beautiful atmosphere, the evening mist descended upon us. Time to retreat back home.

Happy Mothers' Day

2011-05-08T22:49:00.002+08:00

1 grandmother and 3 mothers all having Mothers' Day dinner at Ben and Viv's new home.

Mothers are the best!