One of the gifts which I have received this Christmas was a macro lens for Evie (Thanks, Uncle Kenny!) and I was very keen on trying it out.
I haven't gotten as much time as I'd like to explore with it (busy, busy, busy!) but here are some of the shots I've taken.
I haven't gotten as much time as I'd like to explore with it (busy, busy, busy!) but here are some of the shots I've taken.
I have not only enjoyed seeing the world up close, but I am seeing it with fresh eyes and new perspective.
The amount of detail that my Creator places in His creation has amazed me and it continues to astound me.
My God is awesome.
I was put on the task to arrange this year's Christmas Eve dinner with my family.
So, Evie was hard at work - delivering the invitations, confirming everyone's availability and keeping track of it all.
After the luncheon with The Muncheros, we primped up, dressed up and headed out for dinner.
I only managed to take pictures of our appetizer before the evening sun was curtained by a prussian blue hue all across the sky.
After a hearty meal, we proceeded to the Little Uncle's home; where there was dimmed lighting, sparkly lights on a Chrissie tree, wine, Christmas carols gently playing in the background, presents and most importantly, family, my family.
I went home that night with a full stomach and a bursting heart.
So, Evie was hard at work - delivering the invitations, confirming everyone's availability and keeping track of it all.
After the luncheon with The Muncheros, we primped up, dressed up and headed out for dinner.
 | |||
| Dinner with a view. |
 |
| Best satay on the planet. |
I only managed to take pictures of our appetizer before the evening sun was curtained by a prussian blue hue all across the sky.
After a hearty meal, we proceeded to the Little Uncle's home; where there was dimmed lighting, sparkly lights on a Chrissie tree, wine, Christmas carols gently playing in the background, presents and most importantly, family, my family.
I went home that night with a full stomach and a bursting heart.
 |
| The Little Uncle's Christmas tree. |
The Muncheros and I have been planning for this day for quite a bit before I reached the shores of Penang.
I've been away for 1.5 months and we were all looking forward to be reunited with each other over the holiday season.
We decided on having a luncheon at my place on Christmas Eve, a day where ALL of us were supposedly able to make it. (Joa Wee, if you're reading this, you missed out on a lot... food-wise, stories-wise. :p)
We were one man (and one girl) down, but... as the arts people always say, "The show must go on."
And, went on it did.
The boys were trading girl secrets and us girls were busy cooking up a storm in the kitchen. And when we all gathered at the table, it was exactly as it should be - conversations going round the table, plenty of laughter and a spread of good food.
I've been away for 1.5 months and we were all looking forward to be reunited with each other over the holiday season.
We decided on having a luncheon at my place on Christmas Eve, a day where ALL of us were supposedly able to make it. (Joa Wee, if you're reading this, you missed out on a lot... food-wise, stories-wise. :p)
We were one man (and one girl) down, but... as the arts people always say, "The show must go on."
And, went on it did.
The boys were trading girl secrets and us girls were busy cooking up a storm in the kitchen. And when we all gathered at the table, it was exactly as it should be - conversations going round the table, plenty of laughter and a spread of good food.
 | ||
| Top to bottom, from L to R: Aglio Olio | Whipped Potatoes | French Beans with Shitake Mushrooms | Rosemary and Thyme Roast Chicken |
 |
| Customary group shot. |
(P/S: If you look closer, there's a soft toy perched on Samuel's (the
guy in yellow stripes) arm. We did miss your presence, Joa Wee. Next
time we meet up, you're doing the dishes. :p)
With that, just another year has passed; 2012 is almost a wrap.
It has been a year of meaningful transitions, challenging days, happy news and through it all, I am most grateful to Him first, and for my family, a very close second.
It has been a year of meaningful transitions, challenging days, happy news and through it all, I am most grateful to Him first, and for my family, a very close second.
Scratch that.
AutoCorrect struck.
Because, the little boo-boo happened two months ago, and I was on a blogging break then, remember?
But, it still managed to sneak a chuckle out of me when I looked at the screenshot a little while ago.
AutoCorrect struck.
Because, the little boo-boo happened two months ago, and I was on a blogging break then, remember?
But, it still managed to sneak a chuckle out of me when I looked at the screenshot a little while ago.
I don't mind the grocery shopping, the trip to the wet market, the cooking and even the cooking preparation (which takes up the bulk of any cooking attempt).
However, I loathe cleaning up after. I despise doing the dishes. That's not news. Everybody knows that if I do volunteer to clean up after and do the dishes, it's not because I want to, but because I'm inclined to be nice (or it is The Day - the day that I got a pet unicorn. DON'T laugh. I'm working on getting one.).
Over the years, I have tried various methods to skirt away from the dreaded chore by pretending to be busy, conning my sister into it by giving her something of mine that she has had her eye on and threatening to tell on her (VERY effective!).
But today, I have discovered that all my cheeky and deceitful means to avoid the dishes pales in comparison to this:
P/S: If my child ever throws this sort of tantrum or whining, I will put him/her over my knee and give him/her a good hiding.
However, I loathe cleaning up after. I despise doing the dishes. That's not news. Everybody knows that if I do volunteer to clean up after and do the dishes, it's not because I want to, but because I'm inclined to be nice (or it is The Day - the day that I got a pet unicorn. DON'T laugh. I'm working on getting one.).
Over the years, I have tried various methods to skirt away from the dreaded chore by pretending to be busy, conning my sister into it by giving her something of mine that she has had her eye on and threatening to tell on her (VERY effective!).
But today, I have discovered that all my cheeky and deceitful means to avoid the dishes pales in comparison to this:
P/S: If my child ever throws this sort of tantrum or whining, I will put him/her over my knee and give him/her a good hiding.
DONE.
Now, onto wrapping and ribbon-tying...
[Source: Huffington Post]
It reads,
Jack,
You are my best friend.
We had fun together.
I will miss you.
I will talk to you in my prayers.
I love you, Jack.
Love,
John
='(
My heart is so broken.
Remembering the families and friends of the Sandy Hook victims and covering them in prayer.
I love the holiday season.
I love making gift tags, I love doing elaborate gift-wrapping and I love Christmas carols (I compiled a Christmas Cheer playlist late in November and it has been on loop since December the First.).
And, I love that the holiday season calls for generous giving; especially when it is in the form of cute cupcakes delivered right to your office's doorstep.
I love making gift tags, I love doing elaborate gift-wrapping and I love Christmas carols (I compiled a Christmas Cheer playlist late in November and it has been on loop since December the First.).
And, I love that the holiday season calls for generous giving; especially when it is in the form of cute cupcakes delivered right to your office's doorstep.
Tis' the season to be jolly, indeed...
I must have watched both videos for more than five times (each!), and I am still wiping away tears of laughter...
Note to self: Never give any of the names mentioned in both videos to my future unborn children. There is a very high possibility for me to rot in an old folks home when I am senile, as payback for the humiliation they will receive for their entire lives.
"Creativity is the power to connect the seemingly unconnected."
William Plomer
Misty-eyed and red-nosed when the eight-minute video was over.
... is just around the corner, and Chatty Lass could do with a new header.
This was my take on having children five days ago.
But today, after reading *this* article, followed by *this* article, I take it back; I take it ALL back (Okay, fine, only the part about wanting a baby. The Jackman part can remain.).
It would be a tragedy to bring a child into a world populated by such persons.
But today, after reading *this* article, followed by *this* article, I take it back; I take it ALL back (Okay, fine, only the part about wanting a baby. The Jackman part can remain.).
It would be a tragedy to bring a child into a world populated by such persons.
I read the novel by Victor Hugo years ago. And, one of the items on my Bucket List is to watch Les Mis on Broadway someday, God willing.
Which is why, when I discovered that there will be a film adaptation of it, my heart leaped for joy and soared to the skies - No trampoline necessary.
Never have I been so moved by a trailer before in my life... Christmas couldn't come soon enough...
May 4th, 2012
Dearest Angeline,
After being your sister for 15++ years, this is my first letter to you and it is worth the wait because you are now at the age where we can finally share to one another and communicate on a more mature and intimate level.
The events that transpired during the past two weeks when I was back home weren't easy to watch and it was certainly a blow to my heart to watch you go through all that.
I may not be the best person to talk to when it comes to relationships (I am still figuring out many many things in life, love being one of them) but I want you to know this truth: God has the best in store for you. And, that man will represent as close and as much as he can be (to the degree that he allows and is willing for God to work on his heart and life) to our Heavenly Father - He will be your protector, your lover and the man of your life. He will lead, love and cherish you - and he will never break your heart intentionally.
Never ever settle for second best. Never give in just because your emotions are running on high at the moment.
You are precious to me. There's no one who could love me as an elder sister more than you and I want you to know that I love you just as much, and more.
I am praying daily for God to heal your heart and mend all the brokenness; to restore you completely that you will not be afraid to love again and open up yourself to another person, but only when the time is right.
Draw close to God, our Heavenly Father. Live in His love daily. Read the Bible, it is the best guide to life that there is. And, always always remember that you are loved and your life is celebrated, every single day.
Love you,
Jie Jie.
From L to R, top to bottom: Cream of Wild Mushroom Soup // Crisp Skin Norwegian Salmon Fillet on Mushroom and Leek Risotto //Tiramisu // Creme Brulee
I have not been updating this space for the longest time.
Two days short of four months, to be exact. And, I haven't been writing
consistently for months prior to this hiatus either.
I stopped writing not for the lack of happenings in my life, but for the overabundance of it. I realised that I wanted - needed, in fact - to take things in as they come and let them be as they pass; that it was fine and alright to let some things be just for me.
So, monumental transitions and happy news for the past six months...
First row (L to R): Last night with my bestie who did her final semester in the land of scones and tea // Last ladies cake (inside joke) hangout session with Dee Dee, who is continuing her degree Down Under // First (which has now become the unofficial tradition - an oxymoron, I know) very successful dinner party The Muncheros had at my place.
Second row (L to R): Preaching engagement at GCC, SP - First time ministering outside of my home church. Message title was 'One Life, One God' // November 8th, 2012 - Final all-nighter. The end of life as a student // Time off in Singapore with my family.
Third row (L to R): November 19th, 2012 - Began my internship at HELLO! magazine // Learned that my little sunshine is little no longer, she's becoming a big sister in 6.5 months time // A dear friend (and fellow blogger) had her first child - A baby boy. Can't wait to see him soon enough.
Granted, there are several other things which have been and are going on, but I'll save them for later... Maybe in another four (or six?) months time... ;)
I stopped writing not for the lack of happenings in my life, but for the overabundance of it. I realised that I wanted - needed, in fact - to take things in as they come and let them be as they pass; that it was fine and alright to let some things be just for me.
So, monumental transitions and happy news for the past six months...
 |
| *Click on the image to enlarge* |
First row (L to R): Last night with my bestie who did her final semester in the land of scones and tea // Last ladies cake (inside joke) hangout session with Dee Dee, who is continuing her degree Down Under // First (which has now become the unofficial tradition - an oxymoron, I know) very successful dinner party The Muncheros had at my place.
Second row (L to R): Preaching engagement at GCC, SP - First time ministering outside of my home church. Message title was 'One Life, One God' // November 8th, 2012 - Final all-nighter. The end of life as a student // Time off in Singapore with my family.
Third row (L to R): November 19th, 2012 - Began my internship at HELLO! magazine // Learned that my little sunshine is little no longer, she's becoming a big sister in 6.5 months time // A dear friend (and fellow blogger) had her first child - A baby boy. Can't wait to see him soon enough.
Granted, there are several other things which have been and are going on, but I'll save them for later... Maybe in another four (or six?) months time... ;)
After several months of hiatus from the blogging world, I am reminded of this article I wrote as my second creative and feature writing assignment.
My memory was reeled back to this profile essay as I note down snippets of my message for this Saturday's Youth Impact service.
Read up, stay healthy and blessed, and I'll catch up with you, dear readers, real soon...
A shrill alert tone reverberates in a quiet room and she picks up her phone. Some ten seconds later, she smiles - shining eyes, giddy-headed and glowing face - and shows me the text. It read, "Goodnight, darling cheesecake. Hugs and kisses. I love you very much."
---------------
My memory was reeled back to this profile essay as I note down snippets of my message for this Saturday's Youth Impact service.
Read up, stay healthy and blessed, and I'll catch up with you, dear readers, real soon...
---------------
A shrill alert tone reverberates in a quiet room and she picks up her phone. Some ten seconds later, she smiles - shining eyes, giddy-headed and glowing face - and shows me the text. It read, "Goodnight, darling cheesecake. Hugs and kisses. I love you very much."
The
same scene takes place again a couple of nights later down the week. She pushes
the phone to me and motions for me to read the message on the screen. This time
around, it read, "Hello my sweet
papadom. Yeah, I love you lots too. Get a good rest."
I realized
her reason for being head over heels in love with the man. It made me smile just as wide reading them. But,
she tells me that there is more to him than those texts. Before the end of that
sentence, I was already sold. I wanted to get to know the man behind the
'darling cheesecake' and 'sweet papadom' texts.
She
found a comfortable spot, shifts herself in her seat and gestures for me to do
the same.
She
smiles before she even began saying anything. She starts off by telling me how
they met, 23 years ago. He was 30 then.
She
was born and raised in Penang, he wasn't. He was born in Sungkai, Perak. From
the stories she heard from his parents about him, he was a mischievous and
rambunctious young lad; full of energy and zest for life. His family reared
chickens to ease the household expenses and he adored heading to the pen in the
backyard and teased the chicks endlessly. He grew up like any other boy; adventurous,
curious and ready to take on the world. He did well in school, with a belief
for excellence in everything; a principle that he lives up to and carries with him
even till this very day.
In
school, Mathematics and English were his favourite subjects and rightfully so.
His mind was quick to comprehend formulas and adept at problem solving, thus
making Maths a dear friend - one that stimulates his mind and feeds his
inquisitive nature. However, his analytical mind is impeccably balanced with a
flair for language. She chuckles as she regales a conversation she had with him
several months back. "Have you been watching Pride and Prejudice every
single night for seven nights in a row? You, sir, have got issues!", she mockingly
chastised him. His response to her was a quick "Zip it"; brows
furrowed to create an impression of being not amused but his lips couldn't hide
his smile. In spite of his gruff demeanor, he has a soft spot for romance. It
is seen in the authors whom he names as his favourites. They are Jane Austen
and Sidney Sheldon, both accomplished and renowned storytellers of love and
romance.
With
that in mind, I presumably judged that he was also quite the Romeo. Not at all,
she replies. She directed me towards the only woman in this world that he calls
"Dear" and repeats my statement to her. The cherubic-faced woman
laughs heartily. "He is not at all
romantic in person. I wished he wrote me letters melted me to putty. It would
have made our road to the altar a lot faster", she shares with me. What
the love of his life shared with me that afternoon confirmed what I observed
about him. She informs me that he is a man of few words in person, who speaks
only when necessary. A wise man, who sees purpose in all things and who thrives
in gleaning off lessons from what Life brings to his path. She adds, "He may not be the most romantic person
on the face of this earth, but I thank God for giving me him. Above being the
man of his home, he embeds in my heart emotional security and that is the best
gift any man can bestow on a woman."
I turned
to the familiar face and smiled. A man who knew how to treat a woman right. A
man who was a one-woman man. A man who is truly a man of his word, for when he
uttered those five words "till death do us part", it was a vow that
he intended to keep for the rest of his days. His dear wife was right.
The
lass wasn't done. She brought me for an audience with his friends, KS* and MS*,
of whom have more than 20 years of friendship with him under their belt. The
three of them were pioneers of Tabernacle of Praise (TOP), a church they are
rooted in.
By
the time I met the hospitable and generous couple over lunch, I already knew of
his religious beliefs. He is a passionate Christian who loves the Lord with all
his heart.
They
shared with me of the early days of pioneering where there were only a handful
of people. They opened up about how he ferried people who were in need of
transport on his beloved motorcycle and when he could afford a car, he
continued to do the same; the only difference was more people could fit in this
time. He believed in faithfulness and giving his best. It's the only way he
knows how to go about life and when it came to the things of God, the same rule
of thumb was applied.
He
loves playing the guitar (it is seen in the number of guitars he owns - he
acquired two very pricey Taylor acoustic guitars as a treat to himself) and
discovered that he could sing under the mentoring of the Pastor of the church
then, Pr. Vincent Leoh. He took up the invitation to lead worship for Sunday
Services and have not stopped since then. KS* jokes that the both of them were
both scrawny and extremely slim when they first knew each other but unlike him,
Sweet Papadom guy grew to a sizeable proportion. He pauses for a bit and then
mentions with conviction and certainty, "I
have known him for more than 20 years and have served our God with him for
almost as long. He is a man who truly loves the Lord."
The
girl who shared her texts with me and myself, we took a little stroll after the
long day. It was exhausting but from all the stories, quips and anecdotes, we
realised that we both knew the man behind the texts on a deeper level than
before. There were no words needed but when our eyes met, we both knew what the
other was thinking, "What a man. What a life lived. To its fullest."
After
awhile, she had a faraway look in her eyes and when I turned to face her again,
there were tears in her eyes. I looked at her quizzically. She reaches up to
her damp cheeks and wipes off the pearl-shaped tears.
"About
two weeks prior to leaving home, I was feel incredibly emotional. Fear started
setting in. Worry was going on full force. I was reluctant to leave the comfort
of my home," she reveals. He took me into his arms, folded me in his
embrace and said this to me, "Melissa,
we’ve prayed about this and this is God’s leading for your life. I love you
very much, but I know that our Heavenly Father, your Father up in heaven loves you so much more,
more than my love can ever be for you."
Tears
were pooling in my eyes as she recounted her story. It was all starting to
sound very familiar.
I
looked up and into a mirror and I saw her staring right back at me. I dabbed
the gentle trickle down my face and she does the same. I held an identical
phone to hers. I drew the phone closer to my face and read what was on the
screen. It said, ""Hello my
sweet papadom. Yeah, I love you lots too. Get a good rest."
I
inched my finger away from the screen. On it was, "Message sent by:
Daddy".
---------------
*Names have been abbreviated to protect privacy.
I haven't been writing for a little over two weeks
now because Life has been going full on; fast-paced, so much to do, so little
time. For the most part. But, a small portion of me felt like I needed to clear
a couple of things off my heart and heave it off my chest and I have been
devoting time to that too. And, I'm proud to report that a couple of things
that was on the 'Move On and Let Go' list has been accomplished. So, YAY!
Stay tuned, visit and re-fresh this page as I'll be
sending updates your way real soon.
Tons of love,
Melissa.
... always, always choose ice-cream because you can never go wrong with it.
Dessert with the childhood best friend yesterday night.
When I left home a little over a year ago, I knew I signed up for an irrevocable change in my life. Drastic or otherwise, major or minor, it was entirely dependent on the choices I made along the way to cope with the new chapter and the perspective that I chose to look from.
One of the things I found to be most difficult was leaving some of my dearest and closest friends and along with it, the friendships that have been tried and tested, bonds that were strengthened and rooted and relationships that had bloomed and flourished over time.
And so, it began. The journey, the great expedition, the fresh chapter...
I marvel at the speed by which Time travels; swift, silent and steady.
In that time, I knew that with every call and in every text, when this friend of mine said that she missed me and that I am thought of, it was real. It was from the heart and never merely a matter of lip service, like it was the customary and polite thing to say after not seeing the person for a couple of months.
I was sure of it because I was constantly asked for the date of my return, ensued by plans to meet up and really catch up; even if it was just for a short few hours over a cup of chamomile tea (for me) and green tea frap (for her).
I saw the excitement in her eyes when we see each other. I feel it when she embraces me with hugs. I hear it in her voice when she speaks. It's unmistakable. And, it makes my heart melt to a puddle of happy juice.
Five hours ago, she picked me up from my home and we set off for dinner to celebrate (yes, and the celebration continues) my belated birthday.
One of the things I found to be most difficult was leaving some of my dearest and closest friends and along with it, the friendships that have been tried and tested, bonds that were strengthened and rooted and relationships that had bloomed and flourished over time.
And so, it began. The journey, the great expedition, the fresh chapter...
I marvel at the speed by which Time travels; swift, silent and steady.
In that time, I knew that with every call and in every text, when this friend of mine said that she missed me and that I am thought of, it was real. It was from the heart and never merely a matter of lip service, like it was the customary and polite thing to say after not seeing the person for a couple of months.
I was sure of it because I was constantly asked for the date of my return, ensued by plans to meet up and really catch up; even if it was just for a short few hours over a cup of chamomile tea (for me) and green tea frap (for her).
I saw the excitement in her eyes when we see each other. I feel it when she embraces me with hugs. I hear it in her voice when she speaks. It's unmistakable. And, it makes my heart melt to a puddle of happy juice.
Five hours ago, she picked me up from my home and we set off for dinner to celebrate (yes, and the celebration continues) my belated birthday.
 |
| Italiannies, Gurney Paragon. |
What we ordered to share:
 |
| Classic Pizza |
 |
| Shrimp Fra Diablo |
We were so stuffed to the brim that it took heaps of coaxing and A LOT of willpower to move out from our seats and do some walking to burn off all those calories that we had just ingested.
We were itching for some dessert and we gave in to our cravings. Someone once told me (or rather she used that line on me every single time we were to consume something immensely sinful and not exercise it off after), "You only live once."
It must have been then, when I was off to the loo, that this (very sneaky) friend of mine decided to slip a package into my handbag for me - a birthday gift on top of the dinner treat. I only knew of the package much later.
 |
| THANK YOU (x 1,000,000) for the gift. I LOVE IT! |
---------------
My dearest Annie,
As I'm writing this now, my eyes are still a little watery and my cheeks have red splotches on them. I cried and I'm still sniffling a little.
I cried because of your extraordinary generosity. I'm crying because I am reminded again tonight that lives are worth sowing into, specifically yours. Not because of the gift and treat, but the heart behind the gift and treat. A sincere heart, a genuine attitude.
I don't know what I've ever done to deserve such kindness and love and I've finally understood that it has nothing to do with me, you are His gift to me; one that I am most thankful for after my family.
Love you more than I can say and with all my heart,
Melissa.
After we parked, I stepped out of the car and was enraptured by the gorgeous slithering of subdued pastel colours colliding in the sky.
No filter necessary.
At the top of my head, I thought the celebration was over already. I mean, sure, I have a couple or more dates with my friends when I'm back in KL but it wasn't meant to be, you know... big. (I like low-key. I'm good with it and it suits me well.)
I was surprised with tonight's belated birthday celebration. We had Japanese (which I LOVE!), cake AND presents.
I was surprised with tonight's belated birthday celebration. We had Japanese (which I LOVE!), cake AND presents.
With all my heart, THANK YOU - Uncle Vive and Aunty Sathy, Uncle BA and Aunty Jessie.
Much much love...
I turned 23 exactly four days ago.
It wasn't the best of birthdays (no birthday
extravaganza and the whole shebang and I'll get to why in a little bit) but
I've come to find that this year's was the most meaningful and treasured
birthdays I've celebrated thus far.
I spent time with my beautiful friend five days before and I was rewarded, spiritually and emotionally. The gifts were
incredibly lovely (If you're reading this, Jie, you sure have a knack for
gift-giving!) but our sharing and heart-to-heart, I'll remember it for life.
Days passed and before I knew it, it was April 12th
already.
My bestest friend called me at the stroke of
midnight (it's fast becoming a tradition for the both of us) and the streams of
texts, Whatsapp and LINE messages began pouring in all through the day.
Note #1: To all of you reading this post who have
posted on my wall, dropped me a text or called (from as far as NZ and Aus),
THANK YOU so very much. I am overwhelmed by your kind words that I made it a priority (in spite of my tight schedule and long day) to personally reply
a word (or two) of thanks to each and every one of you. My heart is SO thankful
and blessed in knowing that I am loved, remembered and thought of.
While all of that was going on, I was up to my eyeballs with assignments. I dragged my feet to bed at 4am and was up by 7am. I
was stuck in uni till 12.30pm and immediately after, I was on the way to meet with Tinki Talks
for our (my FIRST ever) mani and pedi session.
A couple of hours and with pretty, cuticle-free
nails to boot, wiggle and show off, I got home, dashed in for a quick shower and was out of the house in
30mins to attend Vision Casting night for the worship team at church. There was
no better way to unwind after nights of minimal sleep. It was a true treat to
spend my birthday in a House surrounded by people who love the Lord and are all
gearing up for the one thing that I am most passionate about, worship.
Deelle and I met at 10pm at a nearby food joint,
ordered our dinner and had our usual tete-a-tete. It was then when I could finally breathe, like a normal person should, after a clockwork day.
After we were done, she handed me my present with a card and in it was a handwritten note. At the end of it was a Post-Script: "Don't cry on this paper, words will smudge." She knows me, a little too well at times, but she's right; I would have shed tears if I was reading it alone in my bedroom instead of hers, with her eyeing my every move and twitch like a hawk.
After we were done, she handed me my present with a card and in it was a handwritten note. At the end of it was a Post-Script: "Don't cry on this paper, words will smudge." She knows me, a little too well at times, but she's right; I would have shed tears if I was reading it alone in my bedroom instead of hers, with her eyeing my every move and twitch like a hawk.
Note #2: M'love, the bond that we have forged over
the years, I think that the appropriate term for it is 'soul sisters'. You're
better than Maccas' chips, red velvet cupcakes, pan mee and USJ9 banana leaf rice
put together. All my love...
...............
Special note #3: To my parentals, Angeline, Tua Koo and Say Koo,
I have never doubted God in His choices for my life because He gave me His best when I was born: He placed me in your care. Thank you for making sure that your heart is a home that I am always welcomed into. I love all of you.
 |
| Molten chocolate cake :: Sinfully luscious. |
Special note #4: Ping, thank you for the cake
earlier today, delivered right to my door step. You warmed my heart with your
thoughtfulness and love. Hugs.
 |
| Green tea cheesecake from Ritz Cake House, one of my go-to places for the best cakes on the island. |
Sunny side up with smoked cheese and a drizzle of chilli sauce for breakfast. Breakfast of champions.
I'm huffing, puffing and extremely annoyed about alternating between canvassing ideas for my soundscape assignment (due Friday!), trying to write an academic piece and analyzing an obituary article for an e-tutorial later tonight.
Particularly with the first one. I'd rather do 10 laps around the park than do foley recording, piece them together and go bonkers with editing. And, it is common knowledge that I despise exercise.
I decided to do a little pick-me-up, for the sake of my brain cells and as a mini treat for Chatty Lass.
Ten minutes later at Photoshop and I present to you the new header for Chatty Lass...
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Now, back to frying my brain cells...
Particularly with the first one. I'd rather do 10 laps around the park than do foley recording, piece them together and go bonkers with editing. And, it is common knowledge that I despise exercise.
I decided to do a little pick-me-up, for the sake of my brain cells and as a mini treat for Chatty Lass.
Ten minutes later at Photoshop and I present to you the new header for Chatty Lass...
Inspired by {this} post.
Now, back to frying my brain cells...
Miniature stuff (notice that I said stuff and not people) are adorable. All of 'em.
Not so convinced? Just check out the Mini Chips Ahoy Go-Paks that I got while grocery-shopping last week.
Not so convinced? Just check out the Mini Chips Ahoy Go-Paks that I got while grocery-shopping last week.
Yes, I buy stuff just because of their cuteness factor.
"All I have seen teaches me trust The Creator for all I have not seen."
(Ralph Waldo Emerson)
:: Celebrated it with the new House that I am finally settling in (after letting go) and am calling Home ::
I was in bed pretty late that night, was up by 5.45am and in church by 7am for warm-ups and sound check.
As I was worshiping with the team, I was reminded very clearly and distinctively of the quote I wrote below.
Before the waterworks could go on full blast, I jabbed in the stopper (for vanity's sake - I didn't want my mascara to smear. The tube may say waterproof but clearly, it hasn't seen my flood of tears).
#Greater days ahead.
Late in March, my beautiful friend and myself had a quick catch-up in between services and she realised that she would not be around to celebrate my birthday with me this year. We did the next best thing - We agreed to have an earlier birthday dinner date.
March wrapped up and soon enough, last Saturday was upon us; the day for our girly night out.
She knows me well and it is as if we have been friends for the longest time, although it has only been a year since I first met her.
We had dinner at a delightful cafe, where the food was scrumptious and the conversations were meaningful, encouraging and honest.
The dinner treat alone would have been more than enough. However, I was spoilt rotten that night (or rather, this year). I was lavished with presents as well as polaroids of our night out.
March wrapped up and soon enough, last Saturday was upon us; the day for our girly night out.
She knows me well and it is as if we have been friends for the longest time, although it has only been a year since I first met her.
We had dinner at a delightful cafe, where the food was scrumptious and the conversations were meaningful, encouraging and honest.
 | ||
| L to R, top to bottom: Mushroom soup with garlic bread (not pictured), Aglio olio, Cajun chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy, Apple crumble with vanilla ice-cream (Complimentary from the owner when he learned that the night's dinner was an early birthday celebration for me). |
The dinner treat alone would have been more than enough. However, I was spoilt rotten that night (or rather, this year). I was lavished with presents as well as polaroids of our night out.
---------------
Dearest Vicky (Jie),
Thank you, thank you and thank you again - For your love, care, generosity, thoughtfulness and encouragement.
The past few weeks have been trying and I could not have been more blessed with an encouraging mentor and understanding friend. You are truly a blessing and gift from above.
My birthday this year was made a lot more special and very much sweeter because I spent it with you.
So much love,
Melissa (Mei).
Because HE lives, we can face tomorrow - with hope and dreams. #Easter
Stunning skyline captured on the way out for dinner.
There are specific prayer items and Bible chapters to read daily and as a Home (cell group), selected persons have been asked to contribute to the chain of daily reflection and sharing. The emails have been a tremendous blessing to me.
It was my turn to write today's.
Top of the day to you, precious Homies! :)
As I was reflecting on today's prayer item (our church plants in Malaysia and in other countries), I am amazed at the work that God is doing through Acts and my heart is so blessed in knowing that we are fulfilling His mandate (The Great Commission) and living out His purpose as a church, corporately and individually.
When the Holy Spirit came down in The Upper Room on the day of Pentecost, The Church was formed and it was for this purpose: To revolutionize the earth, one soul at a time, by an encounter with the true and living God.
The Holy Spirit saturated the 120 not only as a one-off deal, but did a radical change from the inside out; touching the innermost parts of their hearts, enabling them with courage and equipping them with boldness and wisdom. It was a revival that changed the course of humanity and reversed the mindset of men; that Christianity is not merely a religion but it is an invitation to a RELATIONSHIP of unfailing love.
Fast forward 2000 years later, the methods may have changed, but the message remains eternal.
2 Peter 3 encapsulates in advance the condition of the churches in the Last Days. There will be naysayers, mockers and doubters. Just the thought of it brings to mind the words tragic and solemn.
However, we are reminded to be on guard (by putting on the full armour of God - Ephesians 6:10-18) and NOT "conveniently forget that long ago all the galaxies and this very planet were brought into existence out of watery chaos by God's Word" (2 Peter 3:5, The Message).
Blessings and love,
Melissa.
Related post(s):
It was my turn to write today's.
*
Top of the day to you, precious Homies! :)
As I was reflecting on today's prayer item (our church plants in Malaysia and in other countries), I am amazed at the work that God is doing through Acts and my heart is so blessed in knowing that we are fulfilling His mandate (The Great Commission) and living out His purpose as a church, corporately and individually.
When the Holy Spirit came down in The Upper Room on the day of Pentecost, The Church was formed and it was for this purpose: To revolutionize the earth, one soul at a time, by an encounter with the true and living God.
The Holy Spirit saturated the 120 not only as a one-off deal, but did a radical change from the inside out; touching the innermost parts of their hearts, enabling them with courage and equipping them with boldness and wisdom. It was a revival that changed the course of humanity and reversed the mindset of men; that Christianity is not merely a religion but it is an invitation to a RELATIONSHIP of unfailing love.
Fast forward 2000 years later, the methods may have changed, but the message remains eternal.
2 Peter 3 encapsulates in advance the condition of the churches in the Last Days. There will be naysayers, mockers and doubters. Just the thought of it brings to mind the words tragic and solemn.
However, we are reminded to be on guard (by putting on the full armour of God - Ephesians 6:10-18) and NOT "conveniently forget that long ago all the galaxies and this very planet were brought into existence out of watery chaos by God's Word" (2 Peter 3:5, The Message).
---------------
Heavenly Father,
We commit our church plants into Your loving hands, every single one of them now and for the ones to come. We believe in You and all that You are doing in our church. You are faithful from everlasting to everlasting and what You did on the day of Pentecost, you can and are more than able to do it again today. Come down in power upon every leader and person serving, in all areas of ministry. Place in them a zealous desire to commit to the cause of Christ and to give their lives to it. Equip and empower them; in their weakness, You be their strength, in areas that they are lacking, You make up in abundance as their Provider.
As for each one of us, reveal of Yourself in a deeper measure in our lives. Enlarge the capacity of our hearts, stretch our faith.
In Your most beautiful name...
Amen.
Blessings and love,
Melissa.
*
Related post(s):
Bruise count for the day: A grand total of 3.
#1. Woke up and noticed a blue-green coin-sized bruise on my right knee. It must be from that Octo-Woman maneuver (read: the juggling of ALL the ingredients in one's arms to avoid a second visit to the refrigerator whilst using one of the legs to hold off the refrigerator door from closing) I tried to pull off before whipping up dinner yesterday, which failed miserably as the door slammed against my knee and thankfully, none of the ingredients landed on the floor.
#2. Showered and was all ready to head out of the house when I walked into the wall. My left shoulder, this time around.
#3. Crouched down and had a mini discussion with my course mates at MSS. As I was getting up, my back hit the table. Hard. And, loud. My whole tutorial went silent. I went to take a peek (there's a full-length mirror at the ladies'). I got away with a flaming red lower back and a minor graze (which was a MAJOR, stinging pain during my bath).
---------------
Moral of the story #1: The refrigerator door, the wall and the table at D(3)18 are just envious of me.
Moral of the story #2: Always have a large tube of potent Vitamin E lying around.
Moral of the story #3: STOP befriending the refrigerator door, STOP walking into walls and STOP backing into tables.
Earlier today, my beautiful friend sent me a Whatsapp message.
"Came across this quote and I thought of you - We must accept trials as part of the refining process that burns away impurities and prepares us to meet Christ. As gold is heated, impurities float to the top and can be skimmed off. Likewise, out trials, struggles and persecutions refine and strengthen our faith, making us useful to God."
It is such a timely and divine reminder; that the darkest of nights must give way to the burst of the glorious morning light, that our difficult trials are only momentary.
It is such a timely and divine reminder; that the darkest of nights must give way to the burst of the glorious morning light, that our difficult trials are only momentary.
I learn and am still in the process of learning - discovering His nature, holding on to His promises, believing in His will for my life, trusting in His leading even when I do not see what lies before me but choosing to never let go of His faithful grip.
Right now, it is the toughest part - enduring, persevering and following it through to completion.
Yet, I still choose You.
I am reminded that it was a done deal when I stood up in the hall along with hundreds of other youths, declaring that "I want The Cross" ten years ago.
I choose You.
Right now, it is the toughest part - enduring, persevering and following it through to completion.
Yet, I still choose You.
I am reminded that it was a done deal when I stood up in the hall along with hundreds of other youths, declaring that "I want The Cross" ten years ago.
I choose You.
Of what, you might ask...
I am on Day 5 of U-Turn, Acts' annual 21-days prayer and fasting. It is my joy to partner and participate with the church as we corporately seek God for revival (the theme for this year), lift up the Bride of Christ in prayer and petition, as well as for personal breakthroughs.
There are several types of fasts and I have chosen the partial (forgoing breakfast) and Daniel (no meat, vegetables and fruits only) fast.
I so believe in the power of prayer and fasting. Time and again, I have discovered more of Him in ways tangible, amazing and real.
So, staying true to my fasting diet, I cooked aloo gobi (spiced cauliflower and potatoes) as dinner tonight. (Psst, click *here* for the recipe.)
There are several types of fasts and I have chosen the partial (forgoing breakfast) and Daniel (no meat, vegetables and fruits only) fast.
I so believe in the power of prayer and fasting. Time and again, I have discovered more of Him in ways tangible, amazing and real.
So, staying true to my fasting diet, I cooked aloo gobi (spiced cauliflower and potatoes) as dinner tonight. (Psst, click *here* for the recipe.)
First attempt and it turned out smashing. I see a future for this dish. My satisfied taste buds nod in agreement.
I took out some chicken stock I froze for thawing and made some mushroom soup to have along with bread. A quick dinner fix, before heading over to church for a meeting.
