My Chemical Romance

A nice date: 01-11-11

2011-11-01T09:12:00.003+08:00

According to gynae & ultrascan, my expected due date is on 04-11-11. Everyone who knows about this say that I should hold on till 11-11-11. Darling & I are more realistic, we reckon that 01-11-11 is also a good date: easy to remember & we can also combine his full moon party with our birthday celebration!

Anyway, Reuben decided to see the world on 11-10-11, 3 weeks earlier than my edd:)

Gooooo NOBEL!!

2011-09-02T08:11:00.002+08:00

Tuesday night, I can't sleep casue Sports Day is on Wednesday. I was worry the banners are ready, runners are not prepare, whether the weather will be nice etc

Anyway, I am so proud of the fellow NOBELLIANs (both staff & students), especially the "fighting" spirit that we have even though we started off at the last position after the pre-events.
Winning the 1st price for House Spirit & overall 2nd for Sports Day* , all of us has done our best & we are happy with the results.
* I jumped up from my seat when I hear the result, my colleagues have to remind me that I am pregnant
* Students are equally excited that my vice captain wanted to carry me to run around the track

We will work towards the Overall House Challenge 2011:) May the BEST HOUSE win!!

Happy Teachers Day!!

Surprise Visit

2011-08-01T20:33:00.002+08:00

Today, Elaine (my ex-student, Nobel's ex-captain) came back to school even though her scheduled is so packed. She just came back from her months long missionary trip in South Africa & will be flying off tomorrow to Hong Kong to further her studies in medicine.

I am so happy for her & proud to be her teacher. At such young age, Elaine has experienced so much & see so much & contribute so much to the society. She is very clear of what she wants & continuously works towards her goal. How I hope my children is like her! In fact, I treat her like my daughter!!

Elaine, all the best!!
I will surely keep in touch with you & hope that 1 day I will be invited to your graduation, wedding ceremony etc etc.

The Perfect Name

2011-07-31T12:13:00.002+08:00

I bet all parents have the same issue regarding naming their children. Besides having good meaning, we must also make sure that the name doesn't sounds funny if pronounce it in different language/dialect..

I used to joke to my students that I will name my kids:
1. Fan Ta Stic - testicle??
2. Fan Ta Sy - you prefer teh-si than kopi-si?
3. Fan Ta Sia - huge prawn in manadrin

So, what name should we give to our baby?

Happy Anniversary

2011-07-20T14:22:00.004+08:00

Darling sent me a sms from Bangkok this morning, so sweet of him:)
On the other hands, I have totally forgotten that we officially tied the knot (ROM) on 20-07-2007:(

Anyway, I am so happy today because:
1. it is my wedding anniversary
2. Joseph (my colleague) has an additional family member, a daughter at noon
3. I drove Chan Lye (my colleague cum neighbour) & family to hosptial around 11pm as his wife was in labour pain. Their daughter see the world at 1am

Wonder how darling & I will react when it is my turn?!

Emo...

2011-06-23T21:18:00.003+08:00

Family is in KL
Darling is away for business
I am down with flu - high temperature, headache, bodyache, eyes sore

Luckily, I have a bunch of supportive colleagues & good "neighbours"
They accompany me to doctor, buy me breakfast, cook me dinner, call me from time to time to check on me etc:)

School Holiday = Rest??

2011-05-31T16:40:00.002+08:00

I need to rest..
I really need to rest my body and mind...

But, why there is still so much work to complete during school holiday??
Becasue school holiday is for students not for teachers:(

Exam will be over soon..

2011-05-11T08:24:00.002+08:00

My girls are taking their last paper - chemistry. They say this is a killing paper. Anyway, to show them my moral support & to shower them with love, I made them breakfast when they have morning paper. Also, I will be bring them to The Line, Shangri-La for lunch later!!

Let's Party

2011-05-09T10:41:00.002+08:00

Last Saturday, Xora, Alvin & Raymond (darling's MBA buddies) came over for a gathering with 2 objectives - visit darling after his back injury a week ago & watch the election result.

Xora & Alvin brought roast chicken & smoked duck from Cold Storage, Raymond brought sparkling juice & plenty of chips while I made them my signature desert - fake birdnest aka waterchestnut desert.

We had lots of fun from 8:30pm till 3:00am!! I love hosting party, having family & friends around, although I hate the cleaning up after that. Darling said we should aim to have our own restaurant on day, so that there is a place for our family & friends to catch up with us -- free food & no need to clean up!!

Darling is recovering

2011-05-05T13:14:00.003+08:00

Thank you for all your care and concern, darling is getting better. He can now walk slowly, get up from bed without any help, but can't bent yet. He went to the doctor and took an x-ray, hopefully in a few more days the report will give us positive news:)

As the TCM said he can't eat chicken, sour, spicy & cold stuff, I have been cooking dinner for the past few days. I enjoy cooking nice food for my family & friends; I hate the washing though. If one day I decided to be a full time housewife, I will sign up for cooking & baking courses in order to horn my skills.

Hostel Life - GOOD!!

2011-05-01T16:47:00.002+08:00

We went to driving range this morning as darling has not been practising his golf for many weeks and he needs to swing more as he will soon head to a proper golf course. Darling planned to hit at least 100 balls while my goal is to finish writing 6 classes of subject remarks.

While I am still writing remarks for my first class, darling claimed that he twisted his back. Initially I thought it is nothing serious as darling can still do some stretching, so I continued with my work. A few minutes after that, I realise that darling is sweating heavily & his facial expression told me that he is in great pain. Darling told me he was feeling a bit dizzy & can't sit. At that moment, I really don't know what to do & how to help him!!

As usual, the first person/couple that come into my mind, is the super helpful & reliable - Mr & Mrs Wong.
I sms Mrs wong who was in church to inform her about this so that she can tell me where is the nearest & trustworthy sinsei that we can visit. They not only gave me the sinsei contact details, they also came to my apartment with a wheelchair, drive us to the sinsei, bought us lunch & accompany us throughout the whole session which took about 2+hours!!

I enjoy staying in baording..

I enjoy the small talk with my students...

I enjoy having dinner with 300+ students & staff....
I enjoy having so many people around me, constaly showing care & concern to everyone....

Thank you Mr & Mrs Wong!! Thank you boarding!!

p.s. hope that darling will recover soon. he is feeling better, he can't bend or run but he can walk slowly

1st trip of the year - SARAWAK

2011-04-22T09:46:00.003+08:00

We will be spending our Easter weekends in Sarawak. Besides some sight seeing (& hopefully some shopping), we will also meet up with darling's friend who he has been keeping in touch but has not seen each other for more than 10 years.

Compare to the time when we were in UK, we travelled so often due to the affordable air ticket and flexible working schedule. I really miss those time!!

Golf

2011-04-04T05:28:00.002+08:00

So far, Darling has attended 4 sessions and he is getting better. The instructor claimed that he performs better whenever I am around (I miss his 3rd session due to boarding duty). Maybe becasue I will "act" like a teacher and correct him. Anyway, he needs more practise, I think 200 balls per week is not sufficient. During my 1st visit, I saw plenty of kids playing. I was amazed with their skills and patience. Actually, golf is not that expensive and worth to let the kids to try. If there is any opportunity, I shall let my kids to try, if he/she/they fancy, I am fine with them taking up this hobby so that he/she/they can spend some quality time with dad while I spend my 'quality' time at home sleeping..hehehe!!

Control Myself

2011-03-17T17:53:00.002+08:00

Maybe I should learn tai chi or chi gong or yoga as I need to learn to control my emotion better

Or maybe I should lower my standard as not everyone see the same thing as me

Wonder when I will reach the stage where I won't react with any nonsense that anyone* give me??

*my level of tolerance for kids is much higher, I believe this is God's gift

Mum always tease me that I will for sure die of heart attack as I will get agitate easily.

Home Alone

2011-03-16T19:08:00.002+08:00

Life without hubby is so boring...

Holiday without hubby is so awful...

I spent most of my time either with work or hubby, now both are not around, I am so LOST!!

Pity me, won't be spending much time with hubby due to his pack flying schedule:(

Need a break!!

2011-03-15T15:09:00.003+08:00

Weeks of preparation for House Carnival 2011 and not forgetting my core business aka teaching, I knock out last weekends!!

House Carnival ended so well on Friday, at noon, I brought my girls out to sing out their lungs in K - Suite, Iluma. Age is really catching up, my girls were full of energy and enjoyed the singing session so well although some of them didn't sleep much for the past 2 days due to house carnival, while me I doozed off (just a short while)..

Darling was so amazed that I slept from 830pm till 830am the next day!! My boss said this is the sign of entering 30s.... Anyway, I have a good rest over the weekends and I can work slowly this week as it is term break!!

Finally, is all over!!

2011-01-31T21:17:00.002+08:00

Is not perfect, but we have fun:)
Thank you for all the help you gave!!

Stress!! Stress

2011-01-20T21:59:00.001+08:00

So many things to settle before I am going away...
I really hate it!!

Nobel will Rock 2011

2011-01-08T15:04:00.003+08:00

Orientation 2011 is AMAZING!!
We ended it with a "cool" Campfire (in an air conditioning hall due to wet weather)

Thanks to a huge groups of my beloved stduents and of course my lovely colleagues:)
We make it happen, again!!

Although everyone is very tiring (not enough time to sleep or eat), some of us lost our voice (yup, me too) but we have plenty of fun!!

Keep it up, dude!!
Looking forward to the AWESOME year ahead...

Fairy Godmother

2011-01-02T11:22:00.002+08:00

On 31 Dec 2010, we had a special dinner at Spice Peranakan where both Savannah and I said "Yes, I do" in front of Evangeline and Andy (Savannah's parents), Mr and Mrs Wong (the witnesses), of course my beloved darling too!!

Yup, I'm now officially a mother of a 7 years old princess:)

By the way, what must a Godmother do?

Endure

2010-12-17T00:54:00.002+08:00

Say YES with a smile even though the request is ridiculous:)

Hot Baby!!

2010-12-15T11:47:00.002+08:00

to FORGIVE and to FORGET

2010-12-08T18:50:00.005+08:00

How can someone keeps making the same mistakes?
Aren't one ashame of what he/she is doing or has done?
Have one think twice before taking any action?

Can't you be honest and tell us the truth?
When will you admit your fault and face the reality?

You are hurting me and many more...

When will this end? Where is the ending??

The worst has yet to come?

Is GOD testing me?

Mum said this couple looks like us, agree?

2010-10-27T22:20:00.002+08:00

Ivy Junior

2010-10-24T22:02:00.004+08:00

So happy & excited...
Ivy just informed me that she gave birth to a healthy pre-mature baby girl:)

HOORAY!!!!

GOD, please help GRANDMA

2010-09-09T19:01:00.002+08:00

I paid grandma a visit this morning. I "prepare" myself (emotionally) since yesterday, I constanly remind myself not cry...

Grandma replied me with a smile when I called her, I wonder she recognise me. Aunt said she knows, just that she is too weak to reply, her mind is still clear. Grandma is now like a baby, she likes people to visit her and she always smile when the visitors call her. She is getting weaker each day...

There are lots of huge blisters all over her body (not sure what's the cause) and also bedsores, she is definitely in great pain. However, Grandma is a tough woman, she never complain or make any noise, she handle all the pain by herself:( I held my tears as I don't want Grandma to cry with me (like my previous visit), it will take up a lot of her energy. I tried, I really tried very hard but...

Mum said all of us must "let go" - she told Grandma that Grandpa is waiting for her in the heaven, she needs not worry about us as she can still "see" us up there.

Grandma is very skinny. Initially the blisters started on her feet, it is moving upwards, now seems like her throat is affected as well (she has difficulties to eat). There are plenty of open wounds, as the blisters burst. Her skin on both legs turn black and it is moving to her upper body.

I cried when I said goodbye as after each visit I worry that it will be the last.
I am crying when I'm writing this blog as I can feel that she is in great pain constantly.
I will cry when I think of her as she sacrifice so much for the family and she loves us unconditionally.

I miss her fantastic cooking skills... I miss her touch... I miss her smile... I even miss her nagging...

GOD, please help GRANDMA!!
Please do your best so that she won't suffer anymore...

How Well You Know Your Teacher

2010-09-01T09:00:00.002+08:00

In a place call FanTaSia,
where shoes are a form of FanTaSy,
now imagine yourself in my shoes,
if the shoes fit it is certainly FanTaStic.

Happy Teachers' Day 2010

2010-08-31T20:24:00.040+08:00

From Fun Loving (2008) t0 Easy Going (2009). This year the students voted me for Ms Road Runner, in other words, hyperactive.

Thank you very much for all the presents, I spent whole afternoon to unwrap and take photos. In future, please do not spend so much money, I will happy even if it is just a card with all your love:)

My energetic (aka naughty) mentor class gave me this cute little bear and Ferrero Rocher. Anlong also gave me a bear, or is it a squirrel? With the additional fo two "family members", there are now a perfect 10!!Andrew and Wei Hao also bought me Ferrero Rocher...

Nicole Tann spent days and nights to make this bulkyball with plenty of bluetag. Amazing!!

Meicong said honey is good for teacher who speak loudly and clearly during lesson.

Vivian misplaced my calculator (the one that I used since year 6) during last semester exam.

I know she didn't do it on purpose and has did her best to searh around. This magnetic photo frame is so cool - Yong Jen.Ada gives me cute cards every year. Serene placed this outside my door early morning.

Hanisah drew me a card.

Bernadine made me a card.

I enjoy reading her card each year as she can express better this way.

Xitong gave me these cute looking snack. Seo Youn run with me every Thursday, I hope to run more often from term 4.Another hand made card from Danielle.Jia Yi still rememeber the values that Barney taught us:)Pretty roses made by Fabia and Yi Chian.Chocolate from Zikai.Nice hand made photo frame from Luckyim.

Nice watch from Barnarbas. Khanh gave me this 'tasty' lip balm.Li Qing who is always polite.

Ji Hyun made this lovely card.Did Debra and Shini made this card?

Cheryl baked this yummy cookies.

Biscuits flew in from Penang - Han Jie.

I can now have bigger cup of coffee, thanks Candice!! Can I wish upon the stars that Angela made? Maybe there is a geny is the bottle?Nice cup of tea from Ka Kheng. This magnetic photo frame is so cool - Yong Jen.Jun Fu planned well, he gave me this one day earlier so that he won't caught in a 'jam'.

All Nobellians received a crunchy GREEN apple.Sorry... I forgotten who gave me this and this

So, how well or bad did I performed in 2010??

Thank you to all my beloved students:)

Awesome NOBEL

2010-08-28T20:25:00.001+08:00

We will…
Fight, fight, fight like champions
Win, win, win like champions

FIGHT like champions
WIN like champions
ALL the rest can go fly kite

Fly kite, fly kite
All the rest can go fly kite
Fly kite, fly kite
All the rest can go fly kite

Goooooo… NOBEL!

Lesson Learnt

2010-08-26T22:53:00.002+08:00

There isn't any right or wrong decision; should or shouldn't do
Just follow your heart and he will lead you to your destiny

"Give and Take" is the secret of happy relationship

Plenty of Fun

2010-08-15T12:10:00.063+08:00

Date: 14th August 2010

Location: Universal Studios, Resort World Singapore

Paticipants: Raymond (darling's MBA classmate), Xora (darling's MBA classmate), Alvin (Xora's husband), Alexis (Xora's sister)

The most popular spot for photo taking.

Waited for more than 30min, because they are late...

The 3 successful MBA holder

We were curios whether we can climb up the tree and take the aeroplane ride...

Our 1st group photo in front of Madagascar: A Crate Adventure (indoor river boat ride) -- openning soon.

Where's the Ogre?

Only see beauty and the beast:)

Is Alex!!

Shrek and Princess Fiona are here too!!

Not sure who is this cute boy in Far far Away Land

We just came back from Far Far Away Land.

1st experience of rock climbing.

Make sure is fully equip, safety first.

They said I climbed so fast, like little monkey!! I think because I'm not too heavy and my tiny feet fit nicely on the grips. However, I didn't reach the top:(

I shouldn't look down; I shouldn'tgive up so fast!!

Darling has a rough start but he climbed till the top.

Sweaty and bleeding...

We did it!! Wonder why Raymond's certificate is different colour??

His pet is a kind of scary.

Marty, Alex, Gloria and Melman from Madagascar.

The main street.

Another main street.

He loves jumping shoot.
After many shoots... finally, a good one!!

Xora said must take photos with all the window displays.
I love cherries
Some many chemicalsFeeling itchy??

Betty Boop!!

He wants an individual shot with Marilyn Monroe...
Nevermind...

Battlestar Gallactica: Cylon aad Battlestar Gallactica: Human are both temporarily closed.

Anyway, both of us won't take the ride -- scary!!

Their side income.

Alvin is such a joker...

Puss can't take his eyes out of me:)

Last ride of the day, Explore the Lost World.

We cut queue using the express pass...

and we are all dry...

The entrance of Ancient Egypt: Revenge of The Mummy.

Apparantly, this is the scraiest ride of the day, I nearly "chicken out" after listening to Alvin's remark (this is his second visit to Universal Studios). I ended up shut my eyes throughout the journey.

Actually, the ride is okay. The scariest part of this ride is you have no idea what's next as it is very dark..

Did you see the "UFO" on top right hand corner of the photo?!

Yup, we changed! Although the top was dry, other parts are all soaking wet!!

The 5th Avenue.

Tired, I need a seat..

Alvin is being silly again!!

and again..

He even managed to convince Raymond to join in!!

Darling was wondering whether we can use this as wedding car.. This is not bad too!

I'm not sure who he is, but I think he is very scary, so I didn't take photo with him.

I bet Alvin is more scary...

Darling shouted KFC instead of Woody Woodpecker...

Frankenstein walked to us and this is our only group photo

(front: darling, me, Raymond, Frankenstein; back: Alvin, Xora, Alexis)

Smart penguins from Madagascar: Skipper, Kowalski, Private, and Rico

Conclusion: The ticket is expensive, but each of us have 3 express passes, free (Thanks Xora)!! Also, they control the crowd each day, so we need not to wait too long for the rides. Most importantly, we have fun!! I laugh so much:)

Declaration

2010-07-28T22:15:00.003+08:00

I look younger than my real age because I was "manufactured" to be a size s
I'm still using the salutation of Ms because I'm not used to Mrs or Madam
I don't like to be called auntie because it sounds old

BUT....
I'm LEGALLY MARRIED to Mr Fan since 2007 , just that we have been postponing our Chinese wedding customs with the same old reasons:
1. no money
2. no time

NOW...
We can't run anymore, have to face the truth!!

Happy 3rd Anniversary

2010-07-20T19:47:00.002+08:00

time flies... darling & i have been LEGALLY MARRIED for 3 years...

celebration?!
nothing... cause darling is working in indonesia while i'm on duty in boarding + i'm also "lau-ing sai"

Your name determine your future???

2010-06-29T07:28:00.005+08:00

from 龚依倩

(gong1 yi1 qian4)

to 龚苡阡

(gong1 yi3 qian1)

and now 龚谷觐

(gong1 yu4 jin4)

* i added the han yu pin yin as many people commented that they can't pronounce my name

daddy: yes
mummy: yes
darling: no
you?

Moral of the story: Hare and Tortoise

2010-06-24T08:34:00.002+08:00

1. is good to be slow and steady; but it is better to be fast and consistent/reliable
if there are 2 people in the organization, one slow, methodical nad reliable and the other fastand still reliable at what he does, the fast and reliable chap will climb the organization ladder faster

2. identify your core competency and then change the playing field to suit your core competency
working to your strengths will not only get you noticed, but will also create opportunities for growth and advancement

3. teamwork is mainly about situational leadership, letting the person with relevant core competency for a situation take leadership
pooling resources and working as a team will always beat individual performers

4. instead of competing against a rival; start competing against the situation

p.s. I learnt this from someone who is very experience in the education field during yesterday training

Managing your finance WELL

2010-06-23T21:46:00.005+08:00

Use it up

Wear it out

Use without

p.s. I learnt this from a couple who has been married for 20+years

Another piece of darling's work

2010-06-09T10:13:00.003+08:00

Long long time ago in a far far away place live a king who has a beautiful princess. One day the king decided that it is time for her to get married but there was one problem...

The king called upon all princes, generals and wise men. Whoever was the smartest will marry the lovely princess. So, they did all sort of tricks but still the king was unhappy...

Till a young man came and say "I can make this rock float in the air". Everyone laughed at him but the king asked him to go on. How did he make the rock float in the air?

The young man wrapped the rock with a cloth and hammerred the rock to pieces and ashes. He then openned up the cloth and blew the powder away. True enough, the rock is now floating in the air:)

The young man then marry the lovely princess and they live happily ever after...

Moral of the story:
If there is someone who can make me fall like the rock in love and then melt my heart away and make my heart float all over, she has to be.....YOU!

*I found this last night, darling wrote this on 18 June 2002

Bad Weather?!

2010-06-03T11:33:00.002+08:00

After 3 days of slacking and plenty of sleep, I'm feeling better today:)
Pity darling, still unwell:( He is tired, he didn't get enough rest for the past few night as he has been coughing very often due to his dry throat.

Everyone told me that because of the bad weather, virus and bacteria is everywhere... is this true?

I want grandma to see me walking down the aisle...

2010-06-02T13:36:00.003+08:00

I wanted to write this blog 2 weeks ago, but I was too emotional....

I visited grandma on 23rd May 2010 at aunt Helen's new apartment. She was very happy to see me and as usual I asked her whether she knows who I am. She manage to utter a few words and she called my name after I reminded her who I am. I was over the moon!!! I can't recall when was the last time she call me, she has Alzheimer. Grandma is getting weaker, especially after she fell in the toilet and broke her pelvis bone. I will cry whenever I visit her as I can't believe how can such an active lady lost her ability to do simple tasks like go to the toilet, have lunch etc. I tried very hard to hold my tears as I don't want her to cry.

I gave her some money and told her to buy some bird nest (her favourite) and some food when she go out. Grandma told me that she seldom buy food, but she still clinched onto the money tightly. She was very happy, just like a little girl gets her favourite ice-cream (aunt said she love money) and refuse to give to anyone.

At noon, mum wanted Yan Meng and I to serve her tea. Mum told her that I will be getting married soon and Yan Meng will take good care of me and thus she need not to worry about me. Grandma started to cry..... mum helped her to place a ring (about 100 years old) on my middle finger which was inherited by my greatgrandma. Mum told me that when grandma was at about 70+ years old, she told my mum to give me the ring when I get married and I must then pass it down to my daughter.

I hugged and kiss her, thank her for all her hard work in taking care of me. I'm not sure whether she understand but she cried... We know that she has many things to tell me but she just doesn't have the energy, she tried... Mum told grandma not to say anything as I will understand. Aunt asked grandma not to cry as this is a happy occassion.

I remembered in 2004, before Yan Meng and I flew to UK, grandma called and wanted to meet us. After some conversation, she brought out 2 glasses of water, she demanded Yan Meng and I to serve her the drink. Mum said I'm her favourite grandchild who she has been taking care of since I was borned. Her biggest wish is to see me marry happily. I guess at that moment, she just worried that she won't have the chance to see it...

I regretted not following mum's advice to have my chinese wedding ceremony soon, when grandma is still healthy.

Last week, I visited grandma again. She is so much weaker compare to the week before, both her legs and hands are swollen. Doctor said her internal organ is getting weaker and thus not functioning well. I cried as I know she is in pain although she was sleeping soundly when I visited.

I really wish that my grandma will see me in my beautiful wedding gown...
Please...

*I'm still crying at the end of this blog...

Vanilla Pod (yup...my 3rd times)

2010-05-17T11:07:00.038+08:00

The boarding manager, Mr Wong and Mrs Wong treat the fellow boarding councillors like their own children; the boarding concillors also respect Mr and Mrs Wong like their own parents. They sometimes drop by Mr and Mrs Wong's place for a chat or even games and movies. Mr and Mrs Wong often take time to plan special outings/meals to thank them for their hard work in boarding and of course for bonding purpose!! I'm so touched by their act as I can feel their sincere love and care to this group of young foreigners who are far away from home. Due to my outgoing nature, I bond with them really well and I join all the outings since I moved into the boarding:)

Mr and Mrs Wong, with their second son, Gabriel

On Sunday afternoon, all of us were so excited about the BC outing that we have been planning for months (the BCs need plenty of advance notice in order to save enough money). We rented a bus as we only have 2 cars and can't fit 19 of us.

After a few shots and some lame jokes, we reach THE RESTAURANT

Due to some mis-communication between Chef Peter and his staffs, they only set up tables for 10 instead of 19. While the waiting staffs were busy re-setting the table, I took a walk in the orchid garden (I didn't manage to do so in my previous visits as it was too dark). The orchids are so pretty and colourful.

Due to the super hot weather, I decided to go back to the air-conditioned room where the soft and warm breads are "calling".

Then, we have Caesar Salad. Followed by Pea and Ham Soup.

For pasta, we can either have Vegetarian Linguine or Seafood Spaghetti. While for the main course, I chose the Sirloin Steak which melt in my mouth while Frederic has the Stuffed Chicken Breast.

The desert of the day is Chocolate and Hazelnut Praline which I felt in love with (I still love Tiramisu) when Chef Peter introduced to me on my first visit to Vanilla Pod. Believe it or not, I actually shouted for joy when the waiters brought out the desert:)

At the same time, Frederic gave a toast to the graduating BCs who will leave us in July to start on their working journey.

Let us PAUSE for a while and please allow me to bring in another story....

Frederic and I knew each other since University time, to be more specific, year 1 semester 2.

We started dating in year 2, to be more specific on 14th June 2002.

During that period, we never quarrel (I have to admit that he has been very patient with me) and we have so many things to talk about. After graduation, we went on an 18 months exciting journey to the west - backpaking in UK. Without any family members or friends, we learnt so much together(including quarrelling), something that you can't get from school. Great experience!!

On 20th July 2007, we completed our ROM in Malaysia in front our family and a few close friends. We have been postponing our wedding dinner and the entire tradisional ceremony due to many reasons.

I used to laugh at my mum for being so silly as she married my dad even though he didn't propose. Guess what? I became Mrs Fan without experiencing the romantic proposal moment:(

Since my teenage years, I have been hoping and dreaming that in a nice restaurant, my future husband will go down on one knee, with a ring, a bouquet of flower and pop the question "Will you marry me?" in front of others. Then, everyone in the restaurant will be so touched and urged me to reply "YES" by saying "Marry him... Marry him..." (yup! I watched too many romantic movies). This remain as my dream since we are already husband and wife:(

Now back to my desert and darling's toast:

"Let me make a toast for the graduating BCs, Kway ko, Komal and Thu as well, who are not here today. Exam are over and no more assignment too. So, is time for you to say yahoo, it is a break-through! This reminded me about 8 or 9 years ago when I started my undergraduate study."

"During my university day, I met Yee Ching, the love of my life. We dated and more importantly we graduated. There after, to Europe we travelled and of course in Europe, we quarrelled. That was really a testing time. In between, we hold hand and she became a fan! In both sense of the word - she became my fan and also Mrs Fan."

"Today, very obvious is not about me. I want to dedicate this moment to you, someone who has been in my life for the past 9 years. You are the special one that I always wish to woo, for many more years and I hope decades too, to eternity if I may have too."

"So, may I take this ring, to be my clue that I'm ready for a journey and experience that last a life time through. On bended knee, may I ask for you to marry me, I love you and please say I do!"

* Darling was so nervous, not only his speech was not structured, he was shaking when he placed the pretty diamond ring on my finger. I'm trying my best to recall what he said on such a special day

YA...darling went down on one knee and together with the 17 of them, my dream comes true!! The plate (without the strawberry and desert) is currently in my fridge, darling bought the plate:)

Thank you! Thank you very much for playing a part in the planning and executing such a memorable event.

front row from left: Julianti, Alex, Sophea, Chan Lye, little Jia Cheng and Sin Chee

second row: Gabriel, Timothy, Kyaw Ko, Mr & Mrs Fan, Mr & Mrs Wong, John, Wu Jiang, Lien, Susan, Huey Chyi, Anna, Sandi

I'm still at the top of the world!!

(I will definitely share this story with my children in future)

Month of Joy

2010-05-11T17:45:00.005+08:00

Happy Belated Mothers' Day:)

Although my family has never celebrated Mothers' Day, I called mummy on Sunday. However, she was too busy, busy shouting at my brothers who decided to buy more yogurt instead of chating with me...
Yup! She was doing groceries shopping with my brothers during Mothers' Day.

Anyway, I love my mum, even though I'm not good in expressing it in words. I was brought up in a conservative environment, where parents is never our friends who we can share our secret with. She used to be very strict & fierce, a mother with no nonsense. Over the years, especially after I came back from UK, we grew closer & we have so much to talk about (used to be one way communication, i.e. I fed her with lots of information - I'm born to be talkative)

Talking of being a mum, is really not easy to be a good mum, especially a mother of 40 kids!! I'm not kidding, I'm a mother of 39 grown up children + my husband. Like other working mum, I never spend enough time with my kids. Thus, the only way I show my love & care is by making them breakfast during their toughest time - the exam periods.

MENU:

30th April 2010 - tuna and egg mayo sandwich

(39 kids + my husband)

4th May 2010 - french toast with honey

(only my 6 year 6 daughters)

5th May 2010 - sardine with tomato and lime in mini frech loaf

(39 kids + my husband)

6th May 2010 - chicken and green apple mayo pita

(only for my 33 year 5 kids)

10th May 2010 - chicken and green apple mayo pita

(only my 6 year 6 daughters)

11th May 2010 - fish fillet with tartar sauce in ciabata

(only my 6 year 6 daughters)

I hope they enjoyed the simple breakfast I made and they can feel the POWER of my LOVE in the exam hall...

Happy Holiday:)

Labour Day Weekends

2010-05-03T15:38:00.009+08:00

Both darling and I are tired due to work purposes. Especially darling, he has been travelling so often, at least once a week. Thus, during the weekends, we decided not to do anything but rest and relax:)

ISTANA - Open House

On Saturday evening, we decided to go down town to do some shopping as we have a wedding dinner to attend in end of May. When we drove by the Istana, darling recalled that President Nathan is having an open house. We were lucky to be there just before 6pm (last entry).

Huge garden cum goft course

The grass is so green and fine

After a LONG walk, we finally see the palace
Closer view

Darling told me that the Istana is opened for poblic 5 times a year - Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya, Labour Day and National Day. According to newspaper report, there were more than 11k visitors on Saturday!!

ESPLANADE - Chicago Musical

What a nice view!!

I took this photo from the display pannel along the tunnel

Due to darling's packed schedule, we only bought the 2 x $110 tickets on Saturday for Sunday afternoon show.

Super excited!!!

Guess what?! We got an upgrade too!!
We were on the center of level 1, good view:)

No photography is allowed, I took this photo from the display panel

Wonderful and fabulous musical:) The music is nice and the dance is great, is it really GOOD!!

Teacher vs Mother

2010-04-30T08:15:00.004+08:00

http://gallery.photo.net/photo/4490110-lg.jpg

Friends and family know that I love kids. During secondary school time, I used to babysit my cousins during chinese new year or any family events. I played with them, bathed them, fed them and prepared them to bed. Besides cooking, this is another task that I enjoy doing. So, I told myself, the best job for me will be a HOUSEWIFE:)

But, due to my outgoing and hyperactive nature, I will surely be bored to death if I stay at home 24/7. So, TEACHER is the next perfect option!!

** Since I'm staying in boarding, I'm not only a teacher but also a mother of 18 daughters:)

Last year, I prepared 16 portions of brekafast to my "daughters" during the exam weeks. They surely enjoyed the food and felt the love.

Today is the first day of the exam, I preared 40 sets of tuna and egg sandwiches - my "daughters" + my ex-mentees + my "ex-daughters". I woke up at about 345am and in about 1 hour time, I realised that I have not enough filling. Thus, I drove out to the nearest 24 hours supermarket to buy 2 cans of tuna and rushed home quckily to prepare the filling and continue to make sandwiches!! Luckily, I managed to deliver all 40 sandwiches to my "sons and daugthers" doorsteps by 630am.

Although tired, is wonderful to know that the kids are going to the battle field aka exam hall with a warm tummy that full of my love:)

ALL THE BEST IN EXAM

Last Day for Tax E-Filing

2010-04-18T17:53:00.003+08:00

Friday evening over the dinner table, darling told me that his colleague reminded him regarding tax filing. I was shocked to learn that I need to settle it by this weekends as I didn't receive any letter from Inland Revenue or reminder from my HR.

Anyway, after dinner, we log into the website.

PROBLEM!!!
I forgotten my password?! I have to wait for 5 working days for them to send me the password by post. In other words, I will be FINED!!!!

Please...please...please...I hope the amount is not huge:(

Tight Schedule

2010-04-14T21:29:00.003+08:00

Busy..... Busy..... p
All teachers will face the issue at the end of each semester: Setting and marking exam paper, tidying up all continuous assessments, writting subject and mentor remarks etc etc
On top of this routine, I also need to prepare for Open house, Singapore Junior Chemistry Olympiad, Singapore International Mathematical Challenge and Post exam activities....

Surprisingly darling is even busier than me!!
He has been flying very often - yesterday Indonesia, today Vietnam, tomorrow Malaysia...
His work schedule has been planned till early June. Believe it or not, I only spent less than 24 hours with him since last week:(

While I'm writing this blog, he is on the way flying home:)

...Pampering...

2010-04-03T13:46:00.020+08:00

Am I not productive or there are just too many deadlines to meet?? It seems that I have less timefor myself/family, don't even mention about blogging!! I have so much to share but so little time to write. Anyway, I have decided to pen down a few highlights that come into my life during the past months...

ONE

After a long thought and much discussion with darling, I paid $800 for the leg massager (usual price $1388) during Ogawa roadshow in IMM. We have been shopping around for leg massager after I have a taste of it during Chinese New Year in my 3rd uncle's place. My legs and I felt so relax after 15 - 30min a day on the messager during Chinese New Year. However, due to $$$ constraint, I didn't buy any. During the roadshow, there was this powerful power that control my mind, telling me that the massager is good for my Achilles heels and is important for teachers who stand for long hours. Also, this will serve as a present for myself being so hardworking for the past year and not forgetting the most caring teacher awards:) Now, I spend 15 - 30min a day after work for a I, Me & Myself moment...

TWO

Last Saturday, Mrs Wong and I were invited to a cooking session from our chef friend. When we arrived at the show kitchen, we were impressed by the pretty set up and hope that one day our kitchen will be likr that as well. There were 13 of us during that session and the lesson was conducted by Chef Sunny and Chef Thomas.

Stir Fried Golden Fragrant Chicken with Curry Leaves

Braised and Baked BBQ Spare RibsPan Fried Salmon Fish with Orange Cheese Sauce
Deep Fried Crispy Egg Plant with Chicken Floss and Chili Padi
and
Steamed Winter Melon with White Fungus and Red Dates
(sorry, forgotten to take picture)

This is my first (maybe last?) proper cooking lesson in such a nice kitchen and good chef. Beside the food, I also enjoy the experience:)

THREE

Yesterday, we went to this super nice restaurant to celebrate Mr Wong's birthday. The owner of this restaurant, Chef Peter is Mr & Mrs Wong's friend (Yup, they know plenty of important people in Singapore & I'm glad to know them). Chef Peter purposely came to work (suppose to be his off day) and prepare us surprises (the meals are not from the menu and we didn't place any order)!!!

Bread with olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar

Pear Salad with Blue Cheese

(sorry,forgotten to take picture of these two)

Bruschetta
Green Mussels (just flew in from New Zealand) with Corriander White Wine Sauce
Fish with Spanish Anchovies Sauce

Deep Fried Taufu

Pork Belly with Japanese Lemon Cream Sauce

Spagetti with Sundried Tomatoes and Mushroom

Cappuccino and Apple Pudding

Yummy birthday cake for the Special "boy"

* the name of the food items are their real names

So far, this is the best restaurant darling and I have tried in Singapore. The food is delicious, the ambient is nice (sorry, no picture) and the price is reasonable. We will definitely come here again to try the ala carte menu with our family and friends:)

House Carnival 12th March 2010

2010-03-14T11:55:00.002+08:00

HOORAY!!! House Carnival 2010 is successfully carried out last Friday.

I received many positive comments from colleagues and not forgetting plenty of laughters from the students. Whenever a collegue came to me and prasied me for the good job, I will like a proud mum and told them is my wonderful children that plan and done all the work:) Although there are still room for improvement, but I'm really happy & proud that the students have done an excellent job:)

After few late nights, plenty of stress, lots of excitement..... I'm down with fever, terrible headache and bodyache since last Friday.

No matter who win, the most importantly, all of us have fun!!!
See you all again in Sports day:)

GO NOBEL!!

Caring Teacher Award 2010

2010-03-01T22:50:00.003+08:00

Thank you very miuch for those who nominated & voted for me:) I'm so happy that I won this in 2008 & now 2010:)

"Started in 1996, the Caring Teacher Awards (CTA) is organised by the National Institute of Education, Singapore (NIE) in partnership with ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte Ltd and with support of the Ministry of Education.

The CTA aims to highlight school teachers who exemplify the values of caring, sharing and concern for the academic, moral, social, emotional and mental welfare of their students. More importantly, this award creates an opportunity for pupils to show their appreciation to their teachers, which is the greatest acknowledgement of the teachers’ hard work.

This award is held once every two years. One teacher each from a primary school, secondary school and junior college/centralised institute will be honoured at the CTA 2010 award ceremony. These awards will be used for the teachers' personal and professional development."
http://www.cta.nie.edu.sg/

Thank you very much for your support and compliments. I promise that I will continue to nurture my students, shower them with plenty of tender loving care. I will surely do my best for the benefit of all children as I still believe that the main purpose God send me to the world is for me to educate the next generation.

Where is Bambz?!

2010-02-25T23:00:00.002+08:00

Long time didn't hear from me?
Why?

Busy with work... Busy forming bonds with my new batch of students... Busy preparing teaching materials... Busy setting challenging questions and practicals...
*time flies, term 1 will soon end

Busy saying "hello" to the Tiger... Busy shopping for gift for family and friends (yup, I didn't buy anything for myself)... Busy meeting family and friends... Busy giving ang pau (didn't really receive much this year)... Busy organising party for friends and my "daughters"...
* I didn't eat much as i enjoy spending time with chatting with family & friends rather than eating

Busy thinking of ways to cure my Archilles heels... Busy thinking of ways to stop me being so hyperactive and rest my feet more...
*my heels, especially the right side have been aching since CNY, it got from bad to worse, soon worst!!

Busy supporting darling so that he can cope well between work + mba... Busy supporting my students who are juggling very well between academic and organising school events...
* I cant do much except giving you my 110% of moral support

Busy... Busy... Busy...

Many things happened during this period, both happy:) and sad:(
I need sometimes to manage my ups and downs before I can start writing in my blog again. Please give me some time!!!!

More shocking news

2010-01-16T17:49:00.005+08:00

Right leg: Achilles Tendonitis As I mentioned in my previous post, doctor said I need to stand less, walk less and run less if not my tendon will rupture. I'm so scare of Tuesday and Friday, as I have to stand for 5 hours lessons. Of course my beloved students will allow me to sit and teach, but I'm not used to it, I prefer to stand and walk around the classroom during lesson. As I'm a hyperactive person, I still attend all kind of activities even though I know the pain will kill me after each event.... not forgetting, the scolding from darling....

Left leg: Bunion
Last week, we walk past a stall which sell custom-fitted for correction insole (orthotics). I was told to stand on this glass panel which can measure the pressure I applied on my feet. Not surprise to know that my posture is not correct and thus I'm having achilles heel. The sales person said if I didn't correct my posture, it will later affect my back. The insole will cost about S$400, with 1 year warranty. I know I shouldn't hesitate in spendng this amount of money. I was brought up in a family where money is always not enough, thus, must think twice before spending and it must be worth spending!!

Anyway, cut the long story short, the shocking news that I want to share here is, the man said my left foot is developing bunion!! Many people will think probabily ask "what so scary with bunion, this is quite common?". See the picture yourself, picture paints a thousand words....

Achilles Tendinitis

2009-12-26T12:55:00.003+08:00

Darling force (with a bit of scolding, which he denied) me to face the truth this morning -- visit the doctor. After waiting for about 2+ hours in the clinic, Dr Chia solved my worry of the past few months.

Achilles Tendinitis generally due to overuse of the affected limb and is more common among athletes training under less than ideal conditions. Achilles Tendinosis is a soreness and stiffness that comes on gradually and continues to worsen until treated. It often starts with stiffness and creaking when first getting out of bed in the morning. Lightly pinching the Achilles tendon with the forefinger and thumb will indicate soreness. Dr Chia jokingly asked whether I did a lot of shopping during this festive seasons, which of course I didn't.

Dr Chia's advice is to rest, rest and rest. In other words, no more all day long shopping, extensive workout or standing for long hours. Most importantly, I must wear a good pair of low heeled shoes. My reply to him was, "I'm a teacher, can't avoid standing!" In my heart I also worry about the 3 days orentation when school re-open. Since I'm one of the teacher in-charge and will involve in amazing race, I will stand, walk and run a lot!! HOW?????

Dr Chia added that the worst case will be tendon rupture!!

Too Old for Merry Christmas?

2009-12-25T01:20:00.002+08:00

Came back from Orchard not long ago...

We went out at about 9+pm, after a long day of work for both of us. Many people said one must view the Christmas lightings and take pictures when visit Singpore during this festive month. After 2 years of staying in Singapore, we decided to join the crowd this year.

I regretted... We both regretted...

First of all, I don't think that the lighting is fantastic. We didn't take any photo. However, many people were amazed with the colourful and vibrant decorations along the street.
Secondly, the place was so crowded. At one point, we were sweating and suffocating. I really pity those kids and wondered why their parents bring them out to such crowded place?! I hope the kids have some fun after wasted so much tears and sweat.

MERRY CHRISTMAS :)

Is it because of age? I no longer like crowded places. I worry that someone will snatch my bag, I dislike body contact with strangers, especially sweaty & smelly strangers.... Also, I reckon is it not worth to spend so much $$ on the decorations. What do you think?

My feet are aching:( Since young, if I walk too much or carry something heavy, I will have difficulty going to bed as my feet will ache a lot. For the past few weeks/months, my right heel has not been well and the aching got worse for the past few weeks. Darling said I must consult doctor and go for x-ray soon, but I am delaying/avoiding...

Back-up, Back-up and Back-up

2009-12-22T23:52:00.002+08:00

GOOD NEWS!! The IT people manage to save my documents:) According to IT, there is a crack (I think this is how they called it) on my internal hard disk, just like a scratch on your CD. So, it is better to change a new one as the crack might get bigger and later die again. The powerful and wonderful IT people back-up all my files and then transfer back into the new internal hard disk. In short, all my hard work was not wasted, I don't have to re-do anything. Except that HE looks and feels a bit different, I'mnot sure how to explain... Anyway, I am grateful that I didn't lost any documents/files.

One advice that given by the IT people which I felt quite funny was from now on, I need to be more diligent in backing up my files AND I need an external hard disk 1 to backup all documents in my laptop, then external hard disk 2 to back up the external hard disk 1.

My question is, how many times we need to back-up? As one of my colleague always said "I rather be 300% kiasu/kiasi to be 100% sure" Agree??

Praying hard...Get Well Soon

2009-12-19T21:44:00.004+08:00

Last Friday I spent the morning cleaning up my apartment while HE rested in the living room. HE has been busy working on 2010 orientation and preparing materials for next year module since 2nd week of December. HE didn't really have enough rest as before this we were busy with convocation. Thus, I thought I shall not bother HIM, at least let HIM will get some rest till after lunch.

At about 3+pm, I tried to wake HIM up several times, but there isn't any respond!! I panicked and called my colleague for help. I was so worried and rushed HIM to consult my colleague. I am so worry, the report will only be out on Monday.

This few days, I am so lost without HIM with me, I don't know what to do, I lost my direction. I really hope that HE will be alright, I miss HIM...

My dear ACER, get well soon, hope to see you on Monday.
*yup, I'm a workaholic!!

p.s. I have no backup, i.e. if can't safe my hard disk, I need to re-do all the stuffs I did for the past week:(

Society for Physically Disabled

2009-12-13T14:46:00.006+08:00

thanks GOD for giving me what i'm having

sorry GOD for complaining what i dont have

i promise that i will change

and with YOUR guidance i will be a better person

Last Sunday, there was a charity show for SPD on TV
I'm so amazed with the determindation from the disabled and the uncondition support from their family during all the
At the same time, I'm so ashame of myself for not contributing enough to the society

I'm thinking of grandma... her face appear in my mind, I can see her smile clearly. The next thing, I cry... I cry... I cry... I miss her so much:) I surely pay her a visit whenever I go back home; I hate seeing her suffer in the pain....

Birthday in Batam

2009-12-06T22:36:00.002+08:00

Darling gave me surprise with a super last minute short trip to Batam, Indonesia. We took the 250pm ferry on Saturday from Harbour Front Center. After 1h we reach Batam Center. Without any background research or planning, we decided to saty in Goodway Hotel, (about 7min walk to the mall) recomended by the counter staff. Luckly, the room is alright for S$70. We decided to walk around Batam (mainly shopping) rather than spend time in the beach as it is rainy season.

For those of you who decided to shop in Batam, I will recomend i-Hotel which located just next to the megamall, Nagoya Hill. We had some good deals at Matahari (like our Jusco), especially my less than S$1.50 t-shirt & darling less than S$2.90 t-shirt:)

Darling & I decided that if we were to have another last mninute tripto Batam in future, we will venture the beach.

*No photos this time as I sent my camera for repair last week*

Top 10 Reasons Why You're a Special Teacher

2009-12-04T18:05:00.002+08:00

10.

You have got compassion

09.

You have got patience

08.

You have got faith in us

07.

You have got warmth

06.

You have got generousity

05.

You have got wisdom

04.

You have got strength of character

03.

You have got good taste

02.

You have got humour

01.

You are a SPECIAL TEACHER

I was doing housekeeping in the office after meeting
This card caught my attention

Happy Birthday Darling

2009-12-02T18:59:00.007+08:00

Happy Birthday

I am in Kuala Lumpur; Darling is in Singapore

Tomorrow, I will be in Singapore; Darling will be in Vietnam

This is the 2nd time we didn't celebrate his birthday together ever since we dated
We have been through so many for more than 7 years - some ups and some downs

Singapore
Phuket

Kota Kinabalu

Bangkok

I appreciate what he did during this period

I thank God for introducing such a wonderful man into my life

Darling,

you have definitely painted my life with colours

and I'm confident that you will continue to do so for my entire life

December Babies

2009-12-01T19:27:00.005+08:00

December is a month full of celebration:)

1st: My favourite cousin sister, Li Jun's Birthday

2nd: Darling's Birthday

5th: My Birthday

18th: Dad's Birthday

Happy Birthday Li Jun

People say we look alike & I have students who mistaken that she is my daughter:)

Goodbye... Goodbye... Goodbye...

2009-11-20T22:20:00.006+08:00

Today is the last day of school for all levels...

Today is also the last day for the year 5 to stay in boarding...

M08307/M09407

Today, after classroom cleaning and issuing of progress reports, my mentees gave me a surprise presentation http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQlSv0jhBRU..They put together all the lovely pictures we took which capture the best memories we had for the past two years... I'm soooooooo touched!!!

I'm so glad to have you all as my mentees. Thank you for being so well behaved and well rounded "sons" and "daughters", I'm sooooooooo proud of you!!

You will always be MY 307/407 -- my first batch of Singapore's babies!!

*See you all in boarding next year*

p.s. remember to check in with the farewelll gift

Cluster 2BMy princesses came to my apartment on Wednesday to have our very last birthday celebration.

For the past 1 year, I enjoyed your companian especially when Mr Frederic is out of town. I will surely miss your noise, messy room, dirty toilet and smelly laundry (just joking)... Thank you very much for being such an obedient "daughter" and finish the breakfast I prepared:)

Good Luck Girls

2009-10-06T07:07:00.002+08:00

Today is first day of exam for my year 5 girls. Being a lovely & caring "mum", I woke up 5:30am to prepare breakfast. Menu for today is tuna & egg sandwiches. To me, I can't really help themin termof content (except chemistry), so, this is the only moral support I can provide. I do hope that they enjoy the sandwiches (my taste buds refuse to work so early) & do well in the exam:)

Last Sunday, I made them 罗汉果+龙眼 as in this kind of bad weather, they need somehting cooling & refreshing. Many didn't like the taste though.

Dear princesses, breakfast will be provided untill the last paper!!

Today, darling will be flying off to Vietnam (back on Thursday). Yes...travel again... He has been under lots of stress since taking up the more demanding post. As I always say, it is not easy to juggle between full time work + part time study. He is in his final semester for his MBA, thus, he has to really manage his time wisely (between eleftive module + finalyear thesis) in order to graduate asap...

Yesterday darling told me that his boss's mum is not well. Because he is tight down by his heavy schedule, his wife went back to their home country alone to take care of the mum. The worse is no one will be here to take care of his daugter when he is away in Vietnam!!

The moral of the story:
There is no perfect world. If you think you are the worst, it is always not true!!
Cherish what you have rather than complain what you don't have.

Here pain, There pain, Everywhere pain pain...

2009-09-18T14:58:00.002+08:00

Yesterday, Camellia, my colleague (PE teacher) stay back after school to be my personal trainer (free of charge). We schedule to meet every Thursday evening for my intensive training since I desperately need to lose weight:)

Camellia encourage me to do a lot of IMPOSSIBLE stuffs & now I'M POSSIBLE!!
Thank you Camellia:)

With a good trainer, I must also be determine & disicipline to follow my workouts schedule:
Monday -- Jog/Run 2.4km
Tuesday -- Aerobic
Wednesday -- Kickboxing
Thursday -- Intensive training with Camellia
Friday, Saturday, Sunday -- Jog/Run 2.4km

KYC, buck up!!

09-09-09

2009-09-09T19:27:00.004+08:00

**长长久久**

To many chinese, beside 08-08-08, today is also another special day. Thus, lots of couples choose this auspicious day to exchange vows.

While, to me, on this extraordinary day, I would like to THANK my students and colleagues from NOBEL house who has contributed full heartly to the house. Although we lost to FARADAY by 2 points during last Friday sports day, we have done our best and achieved much better result than previous years. Being the house mistress, I'm really proud of you.Many students and colleagues approached me after the event and expressed the following:

"if it didn't rain, the staffs' run and students' shooting events will be carried out then we will WIN"

"if the year 1 relay team didn't MIA then we will WIN"

"if J didn't have a false start then we will WIN"

Anyway, the result is no longer important as my fellow NOBELIANs have done their BEST.

NOBEL ROCKS!!

Chin KayLee

2009-09-08T22:12:00.002+08:00

CONGRATULATIONS Audrey & Karl:)
Their baby girl, Chin KayLee, can't wait to see the world & say HI to everyone on 8th September 2009...

I love kids & super excited if there is any new born baby. I can play with them whole day & night. Some of my friends love to go out with me as I can take good care of their babies i.e. play, feed, put them into bed etc etc etc...

I have been shopping for gifts as many babies on their way!!!

Happy Teachers Day

2009-09-01T16:22:00.026+08:00

Today is teachers day holiday:) Yesterday, student council board & music ambassadors arranged a series of activities for teaching & non teaching staffs. Our day started with students serving us breakfast then 'concert' in the hall. There are lots of performance by the kids & also awards to appreciate the teachers hard work for the year.

If you remember, I was crowned Ms Fun-Loving last year. This year I voted to be the Ms Easy-Going which shocked lots of people - myself, satffs & students!! This is because I'm not easy-going in fact some of my colleagues called me control freak, although I think well organised is the better choice of word. Anyway, thak you for all the votes. I love you all, muak!! This year I received a 'surprise' report book from M09405 (one of my subject class). So sweet of them spending some much time & efforts to prepare such a thoughtful gift. I'm not going to disclose the contents, all you need to know is I passed with flying colours:)
Luckyim used her artistic hands & made me this pretty bookmark. I like her idea of being environmental friendly, using recycle materials. Didn't know that Ronald is so good with origami, the rose looks so real!!Although I never teach Debra, she appreciate my present in her life (or maybe in Nobel). Thank you!!Jerlin knew that I will surely receive lots of chocolates. She gave me apple & kiwi in order to balance my un-healthy diet:) Thank you!! I really have lots of chocolates from:

AdaBernadineYu Jia (inside the lovely holder)Jia Ying & Rebecca from my boarding cluster

More sweet stuffs:

wine gum from Seo Youn

cake (not edible) from Fabia

Jun Han got me a "blind" dog which is tame enough to allow me to rest my arms whenever I used my laptop. Is really comforatble, so thoughtful!!

Barnabas gave me another new balance top.

Shu Xian from my cluster keeps her promise, she (maybe her mum) bought me a packet of konnyaku jelly powder with proper instructions (I think from her mum too). She also made me cookies.

More to come:

notes holder from Xitong

Yi Hui knows I like to be pretty all the time:)

big mug from Anqi

Chee Ying & Alexius are reminding me that my throat needs herbal teas

as I shout very often

cute crystal vase from Ryan

(i hope this is not too expensive)pen & han-made card from Lorna

(am I your guiding star?)

Not forgetting the surprise dinner organised my mentor class, M09407 at Liang Seah Street,Bugis. (I'll blog more about it once I get the photo from my class, be patient)

To all my princes & princesses:

Thank you very much for everything

Need not get me any gift, because your good academic result and excellent behaviour are the best gifts in this world

I LOVE YOU ALL:)

Happy Teachers Day

to all teachers in the world!!

Desperately need to lose weight

2009-08-25T22:05:00.002+08:00

This evening, I started my 1st lesson of abs, buns & thighs (something like aerobics) at Clementi Sport Center.

A bit dissapointed as it was not as intensive as I thought... I really need to work "hard" in order to lose the tummy!! Not forgetting, the "double twins" -- flabby arms + huge thighs:(

BRUNEI, here i come...

2009-08-01T23:15:00.001+08:00

No time to blog, so busy at work.
I'll be flying to BRUNEI next Monday...
work related, not personal trip!!

Phuket-PhiPhi-Krabi (14th -- 18th June)

2009-06-23T14:24:00.052+08:00

Time flies, darling & I have been "dating" for 7 years (did I count it correctly?) This year, darling brought me to Thailand!!

14th June 2009 (Sunday): Singapore to Phuket

We took an early flight and reached Phuket about 10+am (local time). The distance from Phuket airport to our hotel (in Kata) is quite far. Both of us were so hungry when we reached Alpina Nalina Resort. *Their service was so good & we love the environment. As we were super hungry, we had our lunch in the hotel (although we know it will be expensive) as we have no idea the distance to the nearest restaurant and also worried that 11am might be too early for them to serve lunch.

comfy bed & spacious room

pretty flowers in front of the spa

(too expensive for a spa expereince)

not forgetting the gazebo & huge pondhuge swimming pool
Tom Yum is a must!
(yummy)

Stirred fried squids with garlic & black pepper
(the squids are fresh)

Pad Thai

(something like our local char kuey teow)

After lunch we went to Phuket town by cab. We wen Jung Ceylong shopping mall. Nothing special & it was still too early to go to our next destination, we watched UP... First time to watch movie in Thailand & we have learnt somthing new!! After all the trailers & advertisements, the screen written "please pay your respect to our King" *I can't really recall all the exact wordings, but means something like that. Then, video clips of the King with the National Anthem was shown. As no one seated in front of us, we have no idea what was going on. When I turned to darling to ask what must we do, I saw people behind us all stood up straight. I quickly alerted darling & we did the same. So, remember what you must do if you were to watch a movie in any cinema in Thailand.

After movie, we took a tuktuk to the Patong weekends night markets. Something similar to the Chatuchak, Bangkok but not as huge as that. I manage to bought a few cheap t-shirts (range from 60B to 100B). Then we had an early dinner at one of the restaurant nearby.

cheap & nice

After that, we rush to watch the 7pm Simon Cabaret where the pretty lady boys performed in beautiful coustumes and stunning music. They put in lots of efforts for an hour show. The song I like most is Nobody by Wonder Girls, they imitated it so well!!

After the show, we were both too tired to walk around Patong town (wonderful night life - plenty of cheap shopping, delicious food & pubs). We decided to call it a day & return to our hotel.

So sweet of themPrepared my bed for the night

15th June 2009 : Phuket

As we have spent lots of money for our transportation to Patong the day before. We decided to spend our day in our private beach & around Kata town. After breakfast, we took the hotel shuttle to the beautiful beach which located about 5km from our hotel.

soft sand & clear water

private area for hotel guest only

We were playing with sand and sea water whole morning. I drank a few mouthful of sea water as the waves was so strong! I enjoyed playing with the waves:) Then, we stop by at a restaurant for lunch on the way back to our hotel.

super spicy Tom Yum

We spent our afternoon doing nothing but resting in our wonderful hotel room till dinner time. This was our 1st time having such a realxing holiday as our schedule is so free!! For our previous trips, darling fully utilised every single seconds & covered as many activities/places as possible as...

the easy & cheap way to reduce heat loss

Green Curry Pork, Pineapple Seafood Fried Rice, Sweet & Sour Beeff, Stir Fired Kai Lan

16th June 2009 Phuket - Phi Phi

Time to say Goodbye to the lovely hotel as we will take a ferry to Phi Phi. The weather was bad, rainining whole day. The 2 hours ferry trip was horrible due to the rough sea, many people vomitted. We checked into Cabana hotel straight away as both of us need to rest after the unpleasant journey. The hotel is old but overall okay. Darling chose this hotel as this is the only hotel that situated between two beaches. The only complain I have was the salty water from the shower and water tab...

another night of comfy bed

nice view from our balcony

(beach at the back of the hotel)

swimming pool

beach in front of the hotel

We then had a western lunch (not really nice though) before walking around the small island (only need about 10min). As it was raining & the sea water was super cold, only darling dare to dip his whole body into the sea.

Spagetti & jumbo burger

nice beach

too bad, the weather doesn't permit us to 'play' with the sea

We went for a Thai massage for 250B each before we had our dinner. On the way, I saw this bunch of huge & fresh lychee (only 30B) that made my mouth water. We enjoy the sweet & juicy lychee by the beach as desert, so romantic hor?! Then, we also bought ourselves some drinks while enjoying the sea breeze & music at the hotel bar.

Tom Yum, Salad, Squids

to kill time?

17th June 2009 : Phi Phi to Krabi

Thank God!! The weather was good and the 1h 30min ferry trip was alright:) According to the cab driver, Ao Nang Villa is very famous & is a good hotel. Anyway, we can't wait to chance into our swim wears & headed toward the beach as the weather was wondeful.

my opinion: better condition than Cabana, Alpina better service plenty of facilities, they have two big pools

We were so surprise to see so many people sun bathing beside the pool, wondered why they didn't got the beach. We found the answer when we reached the beach - the water is yellowish brown in colour & the beach was full of grass. We still go ahead & challenge the waves even though we were disappointed with the 'quality'. However, we gave up not long after that as the waves was too strong & I was "attacked" by grass which wrapped arpund my legs & body constantly. We then decided to walk along the beach while enjoying the breeze. To my horror, I saw a jelly fish lying on the beach!!

We were approached by a desperate lady which offered us super cheap massage. As we have nothing to do & no harm relaxing by the beach, we go for another session of Thai massage for 100B each. I also had a foot scrub for 100B. Both of us reckon this session was better than the 1st one who had in Phi Phi, really worth for the 100B!

After a refreshing showing (no more salty water & high water pressure), is time for lunch!! Look at the cute bamboo huts...

Tom Yum, BBQ Chicken, Tou Fu, Morning Glory

& mango with sticky rice

After lunch, we walked around Krabi town. Nothing much, nothing special. Suddenly at about 5pm, darling suggested that we should take a long boat to a neighbour island to watch sunset. Yup, we did it, without any prepartion or proper gears!!

We took this to the harbour

Darling hire a 'driver' & paid for the whole boat, so touching hor?!

is quite difficult to leave this crowded "parking lots"

After about 20min, we reached our destination, much prettier beach than Krabi. Although we were both soaked in salty water, we only spent about 1h there, we were so happy:) Worth it!! *highlight of this trip

the nearest my 'driver' can park his boat

not joking, I was really happy nice beach, right?really pretty, agree?

I planted this, hope he can survive

Look!! The sunset:)

18th June 2009 : Krabi to Kuala Lumpur

During the long weekends, beside spending some quality time with parents & younger brother, I visited grandma who is recovering from the surgery. She is a tough girl, she didn't complain even when she was in great pain. I hope & I pray that she will fully recover soon. I love you.

21st June 2009 : Kuala Lumpur to Singapore

Once I switched on my phone after the Singpore custom, I received plenty of smses, mainly from my colleagues. Boarding informed me that Thailand is one of the affected country since 16th June 2009 (MOH list). Thus, I need to stay in my apartment (leave of absense) for 7 days (till tomorrow) and not to have any close contact with students or staffs. We monitor our temperature twice daily & thankfully both of us are fine.

** One of my friend who came back from Bangkok last Saturday was tested H1N1 positive & currently in Sg Buloh Hospital. I wish him all the best & hope he will recover soon.

Pray Hard for Grandma

2009-06-08T22:12:00.004+08:00

Saturday -- Grandma felt in the toilet
Sunday -- Ambulance drove her to the A & E in Sunway Medical
Monday (this afternoon) -- She undergo surgery, SUCCESSFULLY!!

Thank GOD for guarding Grandma:)
Thank you aunt Helen for taking good care of Grandma:)

Recruitment Trip

2009-06-01T16:58:00.002+08:00

I will be flying to Penang tomorrow morning for my very 1st 'oversea business' trip... Looking forward to the 4 days 3 nights recruitment trip... Surely plenty to learn, great experience!!

Etiquette Dinner

2009-05-29T20:20:00.023+08:00

Yesterday I brought my 13 'daughters' to Friends @ Jelita for our term 2 cluster outing. We had a 8 course dinner which specially prepared by Chef Thomas. He guided us throughout the dinner, so that we will enjoy the food with proper table manners. Side plate on the left,drinks on your right. Not forgetting the appropriate cuttleries for each course. 1st thing we learnt was how to eat the bread roll elegantly. Remember, bread crumbs shoud be on the plate, not all over your table. Also, the butter knife must face inward. 1. Amuse Bouche: Prawn Cocktail

2. Salad: Australian Mesclun salad with exotic dried fruits & raspberry vinaigrette

3. Soup: Cream of Asparagus
4. Fish: Pan fried Parrot fish on rocket salad & dill cream

5. Meat: Roasted Leg of Lamb with mashed potatoes, broccoli & mint sauce

or Grilled Chicken Breast with mashed potatoes, broccoli & orange miso sauce

6. Pasta: Smoked Salmon Cream Spaghetti

7. Desert: Praline Cake with passion fruit coulis8. Coffee or Tea
Chef Thomas is such a nice man, he also prepared extra pasta dish (Aglio Oglio) for the boys who still have plenty of empty space in their tummy:) Due to work, darling arrived late & his 8 course dinner was 'compressed' to 4. Lucky him as Chef Thomas served him cold pasta with truffles as startes!!

The wonderful Chef Thomas served me extra desert -- mouth watering apple crumbles!!

Thank you Chef Thomas & Friends

Happy Holiday!!

A Story to Live by

2009-05-27T17:32:00.002+08:00

There was a blind girl who hated herself because she was blind. She hated everyone, except her loving boyfriend. He was always there for her. She told her boyfriend, 'If I could only see the world, I wil lmarry you.' One day, someone donated a pair of eyes to her. When the bandages came off, she was able to see everything, including herboyfriend. He asked her, 'Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?' The girl looked at her boyfriend and saw that he was blind. The sight of his closed eyelids shocked her. She hadn't expected that. The thought of looking at them the rest of her life led her to refuse to marry him. Her boyfriend left in tears and days later wrote a note to her saying: 'Take good care of your eyes, my dear, for before they were yours, they were mine.' This is how the human brain often works when our status changes. Only a very few remember what life was like before, and who was always by their side in the most painful situations.

Life Is a Gift

Today:

before you say an unkind word - Think of someone who can't speak.
before you complain about the taste of your food - Think of someonewho has nothing to eat.
before you complain about your husband or wife - Think of someonewho's crying out to GOD for a companion.
before you complain about life - Think of someone who died too early on this earth.
before you complain about your children - Think of someone who desires children but they're barren.
before you argue about your dirty house someone didn't clean or sweep - Think of the people who are living in the streets.
before whining about the distance you drive - Think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet.
and when you are tired and complain about your job - Think of the unemployed, the disabled, and those who wish they had your job.
but before you think of pointing the finger or condemning another - Remember that not one of us is without sin.
and when depressing thoughts seem to get you down - Put a smile on your face and think: you're alive and still around.

Thank you Joseph Tan for sharing this piece of meaningful email with me :)

JKL

2009-05-26T21:14:00.003+08:00

The new members in one of my colleague's family Javier, Kaedan and Leroy

Well Done, Bambz!!

2009-05-04T21:43:00.002+08:00

I went to the GYM :)
I ran/brisk walked for 15min, then another 15min with the equipments which target mainly on my "pregnant-like" tummy & "butterfly" arm.

Finger cross.... I'll be determined to workout for at least 30min daily!!

All the best BAMBZ!!

...Moments...

2009-03-20T18:30:00.007+08:00

a tiny piece of sticky note on my colleague's desk caught my eyes. it wrote,

Happy moments -- Praise God

Difficult moments -- Seek God

Quiet moments -- Worship God

Painful moments -- Trust God

Every moments -- Thank God

i agree with her and thought that i should share this with as many people as possible

March School Holiday

2009-03-15T14:03:00.002+08:00

HOORAY!! is term break :)
I hope my kids will get enough rest during this 1 week break although their schedule is packed with lots of activities.... not forget the comming common tests.

While for me, there is a long list of tasks to be completed before term 2 start. Thus, I won't be going back to Kuala Lumpur :( My last trip home was during Chinese New Year, hope to be back during Good Friday long weekends in April. Brother will also come home from Macau, long time didn't have dinner together, all 5 of us (also + our the other half)...

Too Clean?

2009-03-04T21:04:00.002+08:00

It has been a super busy term for me -- teaching, administrative work, boarding duty etc etc. At this moment, I decided to take a short break (while waiting for the laundry) & update my blog.

I'm happy & glad to announce that my girls (16 of them) & I won the cleanest cluster for February:) Seriously, it brighten my day when the boarding master announced it last Sunday. We (or maybe just me, as the cluster mentor) set the target in January (after winning the cleanest room for January) & really excited that we (again, is only me) manage to achieve the goal in such a short period of them.
Thank you all for doing your part i.e. keeping the compound clean.

I'm so proud of cluster 2B...

Something terrible happened about 2 weeks ago...
My lovely & kind hubby wanted to help me with the house chores, he offered to mop the floor on one Friday night.

~ Cut the story short, go straight to the main point ~

Suddenly, I heard a loud BANG. First, my heart sank. Next, I saw darling lying on the toilet (shower area)!! His head hit the wall, so he felt dizzy, can't stand up... It took a while before he can walk to the living room & take a seat. The HUGE bump on his head is really scary, not forgetting the blue black on his knee.

At that moment, I asked myself
"Am I cleaning too often?"
"Should I employ an hourly paid helper?"
"Why should I bother hubby to do all the chores?"
"Am I the cause of this accident?"

Anyway, Thanks God that darling is alright.
I'm now more considerate as in I clean less & nag less... heehee!!

Thousand Apologies

2009-02-10T07:08:00.003+08:00

Dear FANS...

Sorry for not updating my blog for a long long time. Please forgive me...
I'm super tired, also lots of deadlines approaching...

HELP! God, please give me more time!!
HELP! God, please also give me more energy so that I can sleep less!!

i hate FLEAS

2008-12-23T16:39:00.003+08:00

My super sensitive skin was attacked (suspected) by cat's fleas (again*)! According to mum, it wasn't done by the mosquitoes because the wounds are like chicken pox. Since Monday, I have been soaking both my legs into a pail of salty warm tea few times a day. Hope I'll fully recover before I return to Singapore on Sunday.

* 1st & the most serious case happenned during my secondary school days. Both my younger brother & I got it all around our legs. Dr. suspected that our socks were 'contaminted' with cat's fleas. We were force to fast (only on selected food) for more than a year, we were only allow to eat pork, vegetables & a few types of fishes!! Since then, we can only wear 100% cotton socks if not we will feel itchy. Of course, we got better when time past.

* 2nd time was about a year ago, when I relocated to Singapore. My housemate has a dog where she was free to walk in & out from my room (before I move in). She likes to rest underneath our bed & sometimes even jump onto the bed! I reminded hubby about my sensitive skin & of course the dog was not allowed to enter my room from then (at least when I'm around). Sister-in-law love the dog so much & hubby didn't tell (wonder why?) his sister about my sensitive skin. Thus, the dog stil come into my room (especially when I'm not around) from time to time. Hubby & I had a few 'heaty' discussion about this, but he always claimed that she bath very often & is very cleaned. As expected, I got many water pox on my legs. I forced hubby to accompany me to see Dr. because I reckon he should listen to what the professional said about this.

Funny though, the fleas always attacked the same place....

p.s. don't get me wrong, i don't hate animals.

McFly -- All About You

2008-12-22T00:05:00.003+08:00

It's all about you (it's about you)
It's all about you baby (it's all about)
It's all about you (it's about you)
It's all about you

Verse 1:
Yesterday you asked me something I thought you knew
So I told you with a smile, it's all about you
Then you whispered in my ear and you told me too
Said you'd make my life worthwhile, it's all about you

Chorus 1:
And I would answer all your wishes
If you ask me to
But if you deny me one of your kisses
Don't know what I'd do
So hold me close and say three words like you used to do
Dancing on the kitchen tiles, it's all about you, yeah!(Guitar solo)

Chorus 2:
And I would answer all your wishes
If you ask me to
But if you deny me one of your kisses
Don't know what I'd do
So hold me close and say three words like you used to do
Dancing on the kitchen tiles
Yes you make my life worthwhile
So I told you with a smile

It's all about you
It's all about you (it's about you)
It's all about you baby (it's all about)
It's all about you (it's about you)
It's all about you baby (it's all about)

Winter Solstice Festive

2008-12-20T22:46:00.004+08:00

"Dong Zhi" is celebrated on the longest night of the year, the day when sunshine is weakest and daylight shortest. In my memories, "Dong Zhi" always fall on 22nd December, but I was told this year (leap year) it is on 21st December. In older day, "Dong Zhi" is more important than the Lunar Chinese New Year where family and friends put on their new clothes, gathered around to have reunion dinner :)

I am looking forward to tomorrow "Dong Zhi" as I love to eat "Tang Yuan" (glutinous rice ball served in sweet soup). Nowadays, you can get these tiny and colourful rice balls with various fillings anytime. However, I still prefer the homemade plain (original) "Tang Yuan" in Pandan flavour gingery sugar syrup :0

I have sweet tooth & enjoy the 'rubbery' texture

(picture from happyhomemaker88.wordpress.com)

Happy Mid-winter Festival

On leave?? Work??

2008-12-13T10:33:00.003+08:00

I'm officially on leave till 28th Dec 2008...
still have plenty days of annual leave --- burn!!

I will be back to KL next Tuesday
together with school work :(
Noone to blame but myself...
work like a tortoise, un-productive!!

I plan to do lots of shopping, hope the sales is good
of course, most importantly, must have plenty of stuffs which suit my taste:)
I wish to meet my family & friends. hope I have enough time

HAPPY HOLIDAY TO ALL OF YOU

Birthday in Sabah (East Malaysia)

2008-12-09T16:12:00.080+08:00

December ~ a happy month with lots of celebration & holidays

4th December 2008
We took an early flight (750am, JetStar) to Kota Kinabalu. The seats are quite cramp, shouldn't complaint as we only paid for the taxes and surchages i.e. free ticket (not cheap though). Once arrived at KKIA, I was surprised to see a man holding a note (written Mr. Fan) awaiting for us. Darling rented a tiny car for our adventurous 4 days 3 nights Sabah trip. After payment & all the paper works, here's come our Viva ...

This brought back the memories of backpacking in UK... darling being a good planner & driver while I am his great co-driver who in-charge of direction (map reader) & money:0

From Kota Kinabalu, we drove all the way to the north. The journey was fun and excited mainly due to the poor signage & narrow road (single lane). We didn't get lost though, we enjoyed the view. Peaceful, Relaxing.....

Bumpy road

Lots of green

After hours of driving, finally...

we reached the Tip of Borneo!!

nice beach
the best beach I ever visited (so far)

isn't this wonderful?

crystal clear water & soft fine sandlook at the powerful wavedarling wanted to build his weekends home here

(right size, magnificent view)

so windy at the cliff

Philippine is just accross

we been to John o' Groats in Scotland & Land's End in Cornwall

now back to home country

My holiday home...

... and view from my patio

(dreaming!)

We then stayed overnight in Kudat -- a very small town. We were a bit disappointed as the so called 4stars resort (best in town & with golf course) doesn't meet our expectation. However, the seaview from our room are not bad!!

Kudat is a laid-back town where most shop close by 6pm. Thus, no seafood dinner, no shopping :(

boring dinner in hotel

5th December 2008
Hooray, my birthday!!

After breakfast, we went to Bak Bak beach, not far away from Kudat. Another good experiece, fanstastic beach.

blue sky

clear water

fine sand

Then, we drove all the way to Kota Kinabalu park. We didn't climb the mount KK due to last minute planning, also I worry I'm not fit enough to do so. It was very cold up there due to rainny season.

view from our balcony

Due to the rain, we decided not to go into Kota Kinabalu park but drove to Poring Hotspring.

super hot water which can cook hard-boiled eggs

filling up our private bath-tub

(yellowish water -- lots of sulphur & minerals)

legs spa (only) because I can't stand the "not so clean" tub

(Yup, I'm OCD)

waterfall

We thought of having seafood BBQ or steamboat (like Cameron Highland) in such a cooling environment. Once again we were disappointed as we failed to locate any restaurant.

steamboat in villa

(no seafood)

** Secret: I didn't shower on my birthday because I can't "accept" the yellowish water & low level of cleanliness of the toilet...

6th December 2008

Can't believe that my birthday was over!! Partly because of the villa & dinner which are not up to my standard. Luckily, darling compesate me with a pretty diamond ring:)
We drove back to Kota Kinabalu after breakfast.

ByeBye mount KK

We headed toward the Jesselton Point (ferry terminal) for the islands hopping in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park.

1st: Mamutik island (least people among 3 islands)

Highlight of the day -- Parachute

2nd: Manukan island (2nd largest after Gaya island)
3rd: Sapi island (nicest view among 3 islands)

After lots of salty sea water & sunburn, we happily drove to 1Borneo (largest mall in KK) and checked into Novetel (quite new). The room was lovely (worth for the money), wish my bedroom will be something like that, simple & modern. BUT, the service was terrible!!

clean sheet, comfortable bed

i like the mirror & plasma

toilet is the best

check out the shower!!

After a refreshing shower, we went to town. At last, I got my seafood dinner!!

lots of choices, don't know which to pick

darling also got his favourite coconut

lala braised with radish & wine -- RM20

(yummy) very fresh steamed fish -- RM60

(yummy x2)

salted egg with 900g crab -- RM72
(yummy x3)

stirred fried green with garlic

(sweet)

We ended the day by having a cup of coffee at Waterfront Explanade.

...darling said i look like a Proboscis Monkey due to the suntan...

I am very happy with the trip although everything seem to be very last minute due to our hectic work schedule. Thank you darling for all the arrangements. We will surely go back to Sabah to conquer the Mount KK and to complete our road trip (west part).

Happy Birthday Frederic

2008-12-03T08:27:00.000+08:00

Happy (belated) Birthday....
Hope you like the cake & 'presents' I gave --- surprise??

May all your wishes come true &
please please please be more mature!!

Happily ever after...

2008-11-23T14:08:00.002+08:00

“When will you get married?”
It is very normal for people in their twenties and after dating for some time to get such question from relatives and friends. I am lucky enough to have my lovely mum to help me out during this awkward situation. Although I know deep down, mum would like me to complete the process i.e. the traditional ceremony (after 1+ year of R.O.M).

To be honest, I always dream that darling will melt my heart with a romantic proposal just like those in movie. I can’t wait to be the prettiest princess who walks down the aisle with my prince charming and be the central attraction even only for a few hours. I believe I am physically and mentally prepare for this but………. financially not!!

Coincidently, there are lots of romantic love stories these few weeks on tv when I’m alone and far away from love one. (yup, darling is away on business trip again) I was so touch by the weekend’s drama about how this man willing to sacrifice himself to the woman he loves. He was there to comfort her when her boyfriend involved in an accident, he was there to help her boyfriend to re-gain his memories etc, basically he is there 24/7, whenever the girl needs support. Another educational movie by Health Promotional Board shows how the wife stands by her husband who contracted HIV after a drunken night with prostitute. She not only forgiven her husband but also give all the moral support he needs, even they faces lots of pressure from others.

“Have you pregnant?”
I bet most you will agree with me that after the wedding bells, it always follow by the second question. Most people know that I love kids and that’s the main reason why I become a teacher. I remember I told mum that I would like to have 6 children, she was shocked and replied that 3 is just nice. Being the only girl in the family, I am feeling lonely as no one plays Barbie dolls with me or share girlie secret. Thus, I reckon 2 boys + 2 girls is the perfect number!!

The other day, some one posted an interesting question over a lunch break. "If maternity leave is 4 months, will your maternity leave double if you carry a twin?" The root of this thought is because one of my colleagues is currently carrying triplet, we are wondering whether she will be having 12 months maternity leave… Wishing her all the best as it is not easy to be a mum of three!!

Many times, my friends, colleagues and students asked when I will be a mum. I am really excited when I see babies or young kids as it always come with laughter as a package. Come back to reality, it actually packs with worries too -- fever, mischievous, teenage rebellious etc. My cheeky students ‘reassured’ me that additional of a little rascal on top of them won’t show great effect (which is quite true). Last week, the trainer told us that she only introduced tv (bad influence) to her son when he was 6 years old. Without tv, her son spent most of his free time reading books and that’s how he developed excellent language skill which is a handy tool to obtain knowledge. My mum believes that family education and the parents’ role model will mould the children accordingly.

My greatest worry will be the babies’ health condition where according to Hariz I worried too much. Mum agrees 100% with Hariz as she reckons the more knowledgeable you are the more fears/suspicions you have. During a sharing session with parents of special needs kids, they shared with us how disastrous they felt when they first found out about their kids’ disability. They blame themselves for not having sufficient knowledge/not observance enough to spot the abnormality earlier. They never grumble about the extra time/money they spent on their kids, in fact, they willing to sacrifice everything to exchange for the kids’ health.

Anywhere, as darling always says, what ever happen to us are God wishes/arrangements. So, just face them and accept them with an open heart :)

Terrible

2008-11-11T07:35:00.003+08:00

I felt terrible last night.

I'm feeling terrible now.

I will feel terrible later.

I feel terrible whole day!!

Something wrong with my throat. I didn't sleep well last night as I didn't get sufficient oxygen supplied. I wonder it is because my throat swollen & block the air-way or just purely psychology?! Darling has been really nice, he checked on me constantly throughout the night even though he himself is un-well. He will be flying to Manila at about 9am. Knowing that he will not be around to shower me with care & love till Thursday, I am feeling down...

Eating & talking are now a tough job for me due to the ulcer on my tongue & sore throat. I'll lose my voice pretty soon if I don't rest my throat. Luckily I don't have to see students today to explain anything, if not...

Unwell

2008-11-10T07:16:00.004+08:00

I was not feeling well after the KL trip, during Deepavali. I blamed it on the lousy weather & the super delicious tomyum steamboat:)

I'm a strong girl who refuses to see a doctor (I hate medicine) unless is super serious case. Luckily, I always recover fast (the next day) after panadol & sufficient sleep. I am also very picky where I will only go to my family doctor & only his medication will kill all the viruses in my body (I think is somehting to do with psycology).

Mum, hubby & colleagues adviced me to consult a doctor & my replied is always "I have medicine at home, I'll be fine. If I'm stil not well by tomorrow, I'll see doctor"

My fever comes & goes for weeks, hubby forced me to see doctor last Friday. Dr. Tan only gave me some panadol & pills for sore throat (even though I don't have sore throat at that moment). I doubt his ability as it took him less than 5min to complete the whole process which include temperature taking, throat checking & questioning session. Hubby & I were so surprise that he didn't give me any antibiotics.

I have been really good & ate the medicine over the weekends. While I'm writing this, my fever gone (hopefully forever) but my sore throat get worse, not forgetting the huge ulcer on my tongue:( I wonder whether Dr. Tan prescripted the correct medicine?!

Pity darling....he also falls sick. Hope he will recover soon as he will be flying to Manila tomorrow..

Enough Rest?

2008-11-07T14:13:00.002+08:00

I have been doing nothing this week...
I must admit that initially I enjoy being lazy and not to use my brain at all. However, after a few days, I started to feel bore and life seem meaningless.
People who know me well will surely agree that I'm hyperactive and can never sit still at a spot without doing anything. My mum always advice me to slow down and take things easy as she worry that one day I might die of heart attack.
Q: I work ahead of schedule and meet deadlines all the times. Is this good or bad?!

I think is time for another session of full body massage as this is the only time where I can fully relax my mind and soul :)

After a week of rest, is time to start work again!!

What a Surprise

2008-11-03T15:53:00.002+08:00

Since I started working in Singapore, I have less time browsing through the friendster where I got all the updated news about my 'long-lost-friends' aka my secondary school mates. Maybe because my laptop is very low grade, thus, it took me a long time to open the pages, especially those with pictures. Due to my impatient, I haven't been loging into friendster for almost a year.

Today, I decided to be lazy & not doing anything or to be more specific, not using my brain. *Actually, I did some thinking during the emergency department meeting after lunch. Up to now, I wrote a few emails, chatted with a few friends (msn), some 'research' for my year end trip etc etc etc. **raining, can't go home.

I was shock & at the same time very happy to see many of my school mates got married & have kids!! Time flies... my memories still fresh with all of us in school uniform, lots of laughters & sometimes tears. How I wish one day all of us can have a gathering & update each others. This might be a bit difficult as all of us are in different countries & busy with so many things.

Once, somebody told me that if I think hard/concentrate on something during day time, it has very high chances for me to dream about it at night. Hope to meet you all you in dream tonight:)

Happy Sunday

2008-10-29T07:25:00.014+08:00

Last Sunday was my cousin brother's wedding dinner. They actually got married before chinese new year in China. This wedding dinner was just a simple family get together & a formal announcement to all our relatives & friends.

Early morning, I drove mum to Shah Alam, her eldest brother's house for the tea ceromony. Everything was so unplanned and disorganised, all because this was the first time my mum's side has such a happy occasion. On the other hand, my uncle & aunt wanted it to be simple/modern style.

In the evening, all of us got ready for the dinner in Klang. There were plenty of time left, so we just played with our camera phone.

My ever caring parents

My younger brother, Bernard. He is currently a lecturer!!

We were the first to arrive at the restaurant besides the bride & groom.

So boring, waited for so longThe groomThe brideAnother cousin, the groom's 2nd brother & his girlfriendThe groom's 3rd brotherThe groom's 4th brother

*handsome hor?!Twin cousin brothers (my mum's sister)
Their sister

Finally, my little angel -- Li Jun

Super Packed Saturday

2008-10-28T11:36:00.016+08:00

Last Friday, I took 2pm bus to go back Malaysia. I nearly miss the bus as there isn't any bus to Harbour Front from school & the cab I called didn't show up. Luckily, I manage to flag a cab outside the school.

I reached Kuala Lumpur about 7+pm. As usual, super jam. So, I took LRT & then cab, while my parents & brother were waiting for me in teashop. We then went to the nearby restaurant to have my favourite sweet & sour crab. YUMMY!!

Saturday early morning, after sending my parents to the tea shop, I went SS14 to meet up with Veron (my beautician) to have breakfast in Paramount. The environment is very cosy and the food is not bad too!!

Three Colour Tea -- pandan syrup, milk & tea

Curry Chicken Ipoh Zhu Cheong Fun

Then, we went back to Veron's work place & I have double masks.

At about 2pm, I rushed back home to get mum as she want me to accompany her to the saloon. We were late for the appointment as it was super jam when I drove back from PJ. I worried that there will be a lot of people doing their last minutes shopping at Lebuh Ampang (something like Little India), we took LRT to Terry's saloon. Like usual, we spent hours there.

After that, I rushed home to meet Ooi Yin (my university best mate) as we will be meeting Yoke Ting (another university best mate) at Kepong for dinner & also to meet Ting's baby girl.

Starters: BBQ Chicken Wings Super Doper Yummy Steamboat with my favourite TomYum based

Three of us enjoy the hot food so much and we definitely had a good chat as well. We then drove to Ting's house where her baby is waiting for us since Friday. She fell asleep in my arms. Isn't Miss Huan lovely?!

She posed for the camera
She is quite 'long' hor?!

Hubby siad she is her half-daughter as they share the same surname (in Chinese)

Another lovely girl, Ting's 4 years old nephew

After baby fell asleep, Ooi Yin wanted to try the famous ice desert around there. Although we were still full, but we really enjoy the ice. Three of had a great night, we haven't been having so much fun after graduation.

Watermelon

Lychee & Strawberry

Mango ice cake

Last day of Lesson

2008-10-22T15:16:00.003+08:00

I attended my last period in year 2008 with my mentor group...
I ended the lesson by giving my handphone number so that they can contact during 'emergency'. After nearly 1 year of 'probation', I believe that & I trust that my mentees are mature enough to handle my number appropriate. Hope my judgement is correct.

Today I'm feeling relief as I have completed all my work on time. On the other hand, I'm also a bit emotional because the year 6 students, our pioneer badge of graduates said goodbye to all of us during the farewell assembly. Although I didn't teach them and have very little contact with them, I had mixed feeling during the assembly. How will I react when my current badge of year 3 graduate in another 3 years??

Of course, not forgetting, I'm worry that my students have insufficient time to prepare for the examination which will start this Friday. I pity my Indian students who can't really enjoy Deepavali as they have papers before and after the celebration.

Anywhere, all these are part of student's life. I went through this before, I can't still remember the ups and downs...

All the Best

2008-10-19T15:54:00.003+08:00

So happy that I completed all my marking and administrative work before the deadline. On the other hand, I am worry that my students are not well prepared for the coming examination.

All the best to all of you.

Do your very best in the examination.

Be confident!!

Happy Teachers' Day

2008-09-02T11:39:00.035+08:00

Friday, 29th August 2008 --one of my happiest day in term 3 because:
1. I'm going home to meet my family & friends
2. Last dayof the term
3. Teachers' Day celebration in school
** actually the 1st & 2nd points are the main reasons
This was my first celebration in Singapore, honestly speaking, I didn't aspect a lot. All in my mind was having some quality time with my family and friends in K.L.
The whole celebration was done nicely and I'm impressed!! Keep it up with the good work, kids:)

For me, the most happening & surprise & happy moment will be the award ceremony. I got "The Most Caring Award" by National Institute of Education and "Ms Fun-Loving" title by the NUS High.
I'm very happy as my effort and hard-work are appreciated by my students and school. I always believe that I was created by God to educate the next generation. I'm passion in teaching and I enjoy spending time with my students.
There were a few incidents during the term that I was so upset and disappointed with my students. At one point, I question myself whether I'm suitable to be a teacher or am I qualified to be a teacher?!These awards are the answer for all my doubt:) I'll continue to do my very best to serve the education field and continue to use "LOVE" to educate my students:)

I would like to say THANK YOU for all the gifts my kids prepared for me, my heart melted... However, in future, need not to spend money on lavish gifts; just give me your best attitude & academic performance.

Barney form M08305

Chicken Essence from Yi Hui
(& not forgetting her big hug)

Golden Flowers from Mariel

My boys said they will become good boys when all the carcoal become diamond

*for non-chemistry or science people, both carcoal & diamond are carbon

Sorry,can't remember who gave me this chocolate.

Can someone help?

Another bos of chocolate from Bernadine

A cute doggie & message from Barney by Debra

Nice candles from Jayashri

New Balance shirt from Barnabas

I see LianHan, Elaine & Geno (my project students)

A sweet, crunchy & healthy apple from Dayna

Yummy Famous Amous brownie from Jer Lin

Chewy sweet & Sunflower from my little rascal -- Andrea

Hand-made card by Kai Jie

Desmond's praise

Plenty of sweets & chocolates from a few students

*Sorry, I forgetten who gave which. Can help?

Nelson baked the delicious cookies

*Sorry again, who gave me the digestive biscuits?

A special & meaningful card from Annabeth

Lots of stars from Eva, Bernadine & Ada

Pens from Shengze

Mug from the student's council

Another packet of yummy biscuit from Jonanthan

Hand-painted card with lots of love from Luckyim

More chocolate from Givanna

Coaster & card from Ada

Hehe..I'm special!!

THANK YOU very much for all the presents. Need not worry that I'll gain lots of weight after all the chocolates & biscuits. I learn from Barney that: Sharing is Caring, so I brought home everything & shared them with my family!!

p.s. did I missed out anyone?

Looking forward...

2008-08-25T07:09:00.004+08:00

Finally, I can have a break from tonnes of work. Can't wait till this Friday where I'll be meeting my parents & Bernard (younger brother) in K.L. It has been a while ago since I last went home...

This Friday, the school will treat us lunch at Suntec City cause is Teachers' Day:) 4 more teaching days before a week term break, yahoo!! Although I'll be back for next term preparation, at least I have 3 days 3 nights in K.L. to meet my 'long lost' friends....

My Dearest Ex-Students

2008-08-19T17:49:00.002+08:00

Where are all my ex-students?
Especially those from UTAR.
I miss you guys a lot...

Library

2008-08-17T12:43:00.003+08:00

While I'm writing, I have just completed marking one class of lab report in a community library near my 'house' (i can only afford to rent a room). I was here with hubby yesterday as well cause our 'house' has no proper working place. I busy with my marking while he need to prepare for his mba exam.

We were shocked that although the library open at 10am, there were a crowd since 9+am. Once the automatic door openned, people rushed in like mad just to get themselves a nice spot as there are limited seat (with table) in the library. Is it what we called kiasu? According to hubby, there are people who stay in the library whole day to do their work, how amazing!! Once, he saw a mum brought in food for her som who is doing revision. My question: Is library the only place to study? People has no where else to hang out?

This morning, I saw some 'naive' / 'innocent' public who brought in food & drinks (breakfast? lunch? dinner?) to the library. To my shock, they didn't do it secretly. One lady who sat at the next table was eating her breakfast (bread & soya bean), she is actually taking her lunch (more bread) now while I'm writing. I'm wondering whether she knows that library is a quiet place to read/work, not a food stall!! She also occupied 2 seats as she claimed that her friend is on the way (since 10am)...her friend must be invinsible as I see nobody.

They are also plenty of people who 'forgot' to silent their handphone... how annoying!! The most irritating one will be those who answer the phone call & continue their phone conversation!!
Oh my God!! Someone is watching a movie, with the volume damm high....

Sorry parents, library is not a place for your kids/baby to run around/learn their first few steps. I know, the air-cond is tempting & fully carpeted floor is very safe. Please be more considerate for others expecially the students who are working hard.

What can the librarian do?
Should the library employ full time staff to 'remind' this group of 'innocent' & 'forgetful' public?
Will it be better if the public be more responsible?

S$75.80 -- Worth?!

2008-08-13T16:56:00.003+08:00

Hmm...as promised, I bought pizzas for my mentees :)
They were happy to see the Shawarma Pizza, Hawaiian Classic Pizza, Singapura Special Pizza and BBQ Chicken Bonanza Pizza.

Sorry... they ate too fast, no chance for me to take picture :(

They have been behaving quite well, better compare to the begining of the term. I really wish they will continue to exhibit such good and hopefully better attitude.

I have been quite upset with their performance, I blamed myself for not spending enough quality time with them & not giving them sufficeint help. On the other hand, I was annoyed with the students who didn't appreciate my hard work & time...

Honestly, I'm not angry... just disappointed.

No matter what happen, I will continue to shower them with love, lots of love.
I pray and wish upon the stars that all my students will have excellent attitude and academic result.

Of course, S$75.80 is worth spending!!
This is because all of us have fun...

Jann & Tenn

2008-08-11T09:34:00.011+08:00

Wish we could be here to make the day

merrier,
This is the day for all of us to

remember,
A moment for both of you to cherish

forever,

Wishing you always happy

together.

Anniversary

2008-07-21T13:43:00.069+08:00

14th June 2008 -- 6th year dating anniversary

Event: Bangkok 4days 3nights

The Grand Palace

(amazing architecture)

TukTuk ride around the town
(only RM1 for so many interesting places)

MRT station
(after sweaty shopping at Chatuchak) Lunch at a shopping mall

(opps..forgotten the name) Huge lychee
(fresh, juicy, sweet, tender...)Ayutaya + Cruise

Sunset at Bangkok

Meeting up with some Thai friends for a super cheap local meal
(mouth watering tom-yum) Khao San Road
(backpackers heaven)yummy freshly squeeze orange juiceDurian pulutMango pulut

20th July 2008 -- 1st Wedding Anniversary

Event : Sat - massage + night safari

Sun - DHL hotair balloon + romantic dinner

1h massage session - our first time

(really enjoy it, the lemongrass oil is working)Night SafariThe tram ride

We met lots of animals, but didn't manage any of them as flash photography is not allow

DHL balloon will be relocating soon
(too bad, the weather on Sunday is not safe to fly, we will surelybe back!)

FREE Apple i-pod classic from Prudential
(S$388)

Buffer dinner at Melt Cafe (Mandarin Oriental Hotel)
Starters Fresh Seafood Bar

(Crabs, Lobsters, Scallops, Prawns, Oysters)The Main Course

(Chinese, Indian, Thai & Western Food) Finally, my favourite Desert Bar