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The world through my eyes.
While I was in Singapore, I used to take long walks along the beach at east coast and wait for the sun to set before heading home.
Each time I was there to watch the sun set, I would always be reminded of just how awesome God is. He paints every sunset,
all of which I marvel at. Each time I marvel at God's works, I would ask myself what is God's purpose and plans for me.
Where and how would I be like in ten years? Hence, I decided to create a site to log down my journey through life for as long as I can, and hopefully share my most honest thoughts and life changing experiences just so that you can understand me better while I relive them again. Cheers! +Charles.M |
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About
Charles , 24, grew up in sunny Singapore and is currently residing in Melbourne. He aspires to work in the advertising industry and is currently working towards his ambition. He enjoys taking long walks and taking random photos for leisure. He also enjoys playing sports and meeting people from different backgrounds. Through this site, you'll find a good doze of his random rantings, thoughts and perspectives of life. Fun Facts
Charles...
1. shares the same birth date as his sister. 2. has an obsession with red. 3. listens mostly to indie rock. 4. has a surname that means horse in mandarin. 5. is christian. 6. thinks that the world will not end in 2012. 7. ink
Charles Ma  Charles visits...
Abbie Amanda.M Amanda illustrates Cheryl Hitomi Michelle Face Hunter Street Peeper Sartoralist Copenhagen Cycle OCF Caulfield Prayer Daily Bread Walldrobe archives
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+charles I will be away. The Muse
I know you've suffered This love is a strange love
 Friendless on Facebook  What if your love story was told and planned before the world began,and photographed before it happened? Very likely, that is the case. Do not adopt/buy a pet if you can't see yourself loving it for the next 10 years
    +charles +mak,fiona,cherie +mdm wong's pet shelter Yesterday, I spent a good few hours at a pet shelter. The pet shelter homes numerous pets ranging from siamese cats to shihtzus. The pets at the shelter were either lost or abandoned previously. It was hugely rewarding for me being able to brighten up the lives of these furry creatures even for a few hours. This trip also reaffirmed my belief that cherie,fiona and mak are very awesome people , given that they love the pets at the shelter unconditionally. Having to endure the stench and clearing the poop, they volunteer at the shelter at least twice a month. I also learnt that my Jewel and Garfield are very very fortunate and spoilt! Considering that Jewel tussle with me for my pillow when we sleep! So anyway, saturday was well spent with the chicken nut bread group. Today, I had a good time with dad and family over lunch. Very good weekend! Later in the evening, I'm meeting my poly mates for a good time of hawker food. I'm sure it'll turn out well! I just hope the weather remains the way it is now! :) Will update.  +charles photo retrieved from cheryl's lost camera many stories ago at seven Semester Results
 +charles +exam results day Today has been quite eventful really I was on my way to the Since returning to singapore, i'v been running errands, such as replacing my broken lugguage, and meeting specific people* just to chill and catch up. Regarding my exam results, it has been positive! I was expecting credits for this semester since it wasn't the best semester for me. However, I scored 4 distinctions! I'm happy! As usual, when I heard about my results, I wish I scored high distinctions! but I guess I should be happy with what I'v achieved! Big thanks to my friends at OCF and in Singapore who have kept me in prayers. Big thanks to my mom who went over to melb to cook for me and keep my morale high. Big thanks to God for giving me the needed wisdom and motivation. Until next time! 1st December
+charles.mStep into the known/unknown? Sometimes I wish time can be at a standstill? Yet, at times its nice to see another chapter come to an end in Melbourne. At the moment, I am only looking forward to the greener pastures of Singapore. I have no idea what is installed for me. I do not even know if I should expect the same. Whichever... we'll see what happens. Hello Singapore!  +charles Since when was OCF caulfield a female ?  +charles +random ranting (isn't that what blogs are all about) With christmas just around the corner and the new year approaching, I cannot help but look back at my new year resolutions. I wouldn't say that I'v achieve all my resolutions, but I'm happy some(the more impt ones) were/are fulfilled. Already looking forward to 2010. Why of course! its the World Cup year remember ? +charles +I like to make myself believe that planet earth turns slowly got this from hitomi. :) A secret hideout
 +charles.m+mom at the big purse on bourke st/GPO feels like season 2 is coming to an end. most of my friends, including my housemate, have flew home. I look forward to going back home to spend christmas and new year. Melbourne is becoming very much like a hideout, a fairytale. A second life, a second community, that I go back to. The stories, the life and the friends. Sometimes, it becomes primary rather than secondary. nevertheless, I look forward to my trip back to singapore. Not exactly sure what to expect, but we'll see. I'm sure something wil crop up! :) very loved! v awesome music video love the video! :) enjoy ! BRB Jason's birthday + November Christmas party
+charles+recent events Two days ago, we celebrated jason's birthday. and yesterday was spent at albert park having a november christmas bbq! yep! christmas! well, we decided to have an early christmas gathering cause everyone is going back to their respective countries for the summer break. so yep! :) Photos :)       While I was walking in the midst of a dark valley, God reminded me of his love by placing this group of people in my life. OCF caulfield, by far the best thing that has happened to me since arriving in australia. :)charlie boy i'll be crazy not to follow
 +charles.m+eureka with hanging shoes The building in this picture is infact, the tallest residential building in the world. Eureka they call it. I'v not been updating very much these days, mainly because iv been pretty busy tidying my life and such. Life has been v good for me, which makes me v happy! I want to be living passionately for myself and for God! I cannot help but think that this is infact the best time of my life. As a student, having a long holiday, I cannot ask for any thing better. stress free, and everyday from today till march is a saturday! I wont deny im loving it. I love life. I love being me. Thank God for that. I'm looking forward to Singapore actually. Although I do not know what to expect going home. Something within me tells me that the Singapore i knew is nothing like the one i'm going be experiencing. maybe because most of my friends are busy with their own lives now? I'm not sure. We'll see... really. Lets hope it isn't the way I depict it to be. meanwhile, here in melb, iv been enjoying every min of it. v random post come to think about it. -_- 
+charles.m List of dishes that mom has cooked since arriving in melbourne :D October 29 - Roasted Chicken with King Crab Claws October 30 - Chicken Macaroni bacon/ October 31 - Wantoon Noodle Fried Rice, with pan-fried Saba Fish November 1 - Chicken marinated with Honey Mustard stuffed into pita bread - steamed minced pork with mui choi, prawns cooked with tung fen. November 2 - Seafood Pasta November 3 - steak with carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, broccoli - rice with onion omelette, seafood tom yum tofu and enoki mushroom soup November 4 - tom yum fried bee hoon - curry lamb with tumeric rice November 5 - Chicken rice November 7 - Beef Noodles November 8 - Korean Style bulgogi pork, saba fish November 9 - Pasta bolognaise - curry chicken, with tumeric rice and pan fried luncheon meat November 10 - oxtails tubular pasta November 11 - Spicy bean paste with the red snapper, and tom yum sea food soup. - chicken curry November 13 - Tom Yum bee hoon November 14 - braised sea bass, veg and kebab November 16 - Oxtail Stew November 17 - Mushroom Soup - Fish and Co Meal November 18 - Curry Lamb  +charles.m internet has been down for the last two days. never knew i was so dependent on the internet. was unable to pay bills, read news, surf youtube and download songs... I'll update what iv been doing for the last couple of days, but its 3.10am now so i won't go into it cause im tired :D Meanwhile, I just went to wash up more photos from my other film. love the vintage look. the lightbulbs were taken from magnation while the toiletbowl pic was taken in one of the changing rooms at general pants. :D   Be back soon! :D    +camberwell market Awesome vintage stuff they have :) From world war 2 journals to vintage leather bags and barang brang! loved it. Went to prime too, to which i bought a fp polo thats made in japan. Love the yellow and red trimmings! :)  +charles+The Fuse - Hello Things to do and buy list (Before 2009 ends) +christmas postcards +clean up apartment +organise laptop folders +slr camera +develop film +camberwell market +update itunes +pack bags +pay bills +sell things on ebay +organise gatherings +finish reading book +cheap monday +2012 +buy christmas gifts +the killers concert tickets +the muse concert tickets +mandy's christmas bag +cherry jubilee Great Ocean Road 2009
+Charles.m+Great Ocean Road +w/ Auntie Michele Wagner and Mom trip to great ocean road could not have been any better really. Why? Because... 1) I did not suffer from any motion sickness. 2) The weather was love 3) We got to see wild koala bears 4) The beach waters were crystal clear 5) The views of the apostles was awesome         
 hehehe
+charles The dreadful exam period has ended. As compared to previous semesters, this semester is the roughest. I had difficulty answering the questions for strategic management and imc. The questions asked caught me by surprise. Nevertheless, I did my best and prayed to God about my situation. As such, I ought to put my trust in God, whatever the outcome may be. :) I spent my first day of freedom at docklands. Went to do some shopping and sightseeing. The weather has been dreadful. Very hot and dry. Hotter than sunny Singapore! :( I'm returning to Singapore in december. That is twenty days from now. I intend to spend a considerable amount of time studying God's word while building on a closer and more intimate relationship with Him. The scripture is described as our sword against the devil. While Jesus was in the wilderness for 40 days, the devil tried to tempt Jesus. Jesus responded by using verses to fend the devil away. Hence, I decided its only good I learn to use my sword for I'm sure it will come in handy. On to other things... I'm going to the great ocean road on thursday. Hope it'll be a good trip! I'm going with mom and auntie michele. mom is quite eager to take a look at the 12 apostles. though I heard there are only 8 left. Will take truckloads of photos! Hope the roadtrip wont trigger my motion sickness. Will prepae some motion sickness pills. Will update. Meanwhile, its holidaying for me! Linus' 24th Birthday
+charles+ Proverbs 27:17 As iron sharpens iron, a friend sharpens a friend. the world through my fisheye
 +charles +fisheye trial shots a trial run on the fisheye camera :P The pictures turned out pretty and awesome! have a view!      
always be a muse fan
+charles+the muse - Undisclosed Desires +done with 3 exams, 1 to go. of bright skies and stars
+charlesDaniel 12:3 Those who are wise will shine as bright as the sky, and those who turn many to righteousness will shine like stars forever. Stars stand out at night against the black sky. Like the stars, God's people are called to stand out in this dark world. We were never made to fit into this world. In Matthew 5:14, Jesus calls us to be the Light of the World. To shine like a city on a mountain, glowing in the night for all to see. I like to think that we are like lighthouses out at sea, shining our torch to steer lost ships in the right direction. ** I'v put a new player on the site! Of Gifts and Talents.
 +charles.m+four leaves taken in saigon 2008 According to the dictionary, a gift is defined as "something given voluntarily without payment in return, as to show favor toward someone, honor an occasion, or make a gesture of assistance; present." A gift can only be a gift if it is accepted. As with talents, it is the same. We are all blessed by the Holy Spirit in one way or another. Some of us are musically inclined while others may be very good with sports. Some are academically inclined while others have artistic flair. Having spent pretty much all my time on badminton while I was a kid, I observed several patterns while playing the sport. Some players are more talented than others. These players tend to pick up new skills more quickly. Yet, as I look back, not all of them emerged to be the best. Instead, some players who appeared less talented have emerged as better players. So what exactly am I driving at ? In order to fulfil the full potential of our gifts and talents from God, not only must we accept our gifts/talents, but also nurture them. Roger Federer is a champion not only because he is talented, but because he nurtured his talent in tennis. From a christian's perspective, are we accepting and using our God given talents to shine and give back the glory to God? Proverbs 13:4 Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper and be satisfied. Proverbs 18:24 (New Living Translation) There are "friends" who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother. Some people pretend to be friends and will act friendly when they don't mean it. Why would someone be a phony friend? The person may want to look good or gain something through the "friendship". Instead of being a friend,however, that person just uses the other one for his or her own gain. Christians should not be like that. We should show respect and love for others and be honest with them. What kind of friend are you? Above is the commentary I got from my bible for Proverbs 18:24, which I thought really struck a chord in me. As I reflected on my life, I can only thank God for the awesome people that He has planted in my life. Friends who were not just there for the good times, but friends who have been there to help me through during my darkest days. Charles  I don't like my LG viewty. I wish to change it. but I can't because I am on contract and I cannot renew my plan or sign a new plan. And its too costly to buy another cellphone without plan. -_- Worrying is in fact a lack of Faith.
+charlesMatthew 6:26-27 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Matthew 6:33-34 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. This could possibly be the number hundredth time i am sitting for exams. I don't know. Could be more. I used to fret before each exam. I would worry, maybe because I lacked preparation, or maybe because I was too eager to score good grades. Whichever the case, God has pulled me through anyway (even when I didn't deserve to be pulled through). Over the years, I learnt that as long as I give it my best effort and seek God, there is nothing else I can or need to do. So why worry ? Because if God bothers feeding the birds, what more us, as His children ? :) Agreed Regina Spektor- The Call
 +charles.m+Red cup & imc textbook Today was spent studying for exams. In my free time, I surfed blogs, facebook and youtube. Occasionally, I would speak to God. Spent some time praying for friends who are taking their exams. Dinner was lamb chop. Supper was consumed along with dinner. Today has been uneventful but fruitful, if that makes sense. :) No need to say good bye. +charles Since the beginning of time, God has sent many messengers to tell of a messiah that would bring salvation. Many of these events have been recorded through the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the bible. Historians also confirmed that a man by the name of Jesus Christ did walk the earth some two thousand years ago. This is evident as we are living in 2009 AD. While many of the prophecies that were described in the bible have come to pass, several are due to occur. Like the many messengers God has sent, we christians are today's messengers. Messengers of God, to tell of a messiah that saves. The bible gives us very good indication of what is to come. Regardless of whether the prophecies will occur in our generation, we are called to share the good news. The news that we can have a relationship with God while dwelling in His kingdom. The news that we have a saviour who will walk with us through the darkest valleys. "The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life."(Romans 6: 23)
On a personal note, my direct family are christians. I am very thankful for my very beloved sister who serves God through her drawings and faith. My mom, as mentioned frequently, is a source of inspiration for me as teaches me about God through her works for God. My father, on the other hand, is not a christian. My heart's desire is to reach out to him and share the best news any person can ever receive. Today, I have made a decision to share with my father what has been so difficult to share. +charles My mom has been attending a course on christian charismatic movement. This course teaches issues such as speaking in tongues, spiritual warfare and the holy spirit. At the end of the course, every participant has to take a 50 question mutiple choice test. The passing mark for the course is 40. Today, my mom went to take the test in church. I'm confident she'll do well because she is very facty and she is like wikipedia and biblegateway combined. This is a conversation I had with my mom after her test. Daphne says: i am back. the test quite hard. but i think i can pass charles says: if fail how ? punish on sunday service ? Daphne says: no lah, clean the toilet maybe =X How about that for a mom who can play along with my nonsense. haha  As we all know, fishing in Singapore requires great faith. Why? Because there really are no fishes in the region! This is a picture of Linus casting the rod out into the sea at East Coast (Bedok jetty), which was once our playground. jeng jeng!
Sources of inspiration
Those three words are said too much, they are not enough.
 +2010.1010 I don't know if you visit missionbells. I'm not sure what is going on in your mind. How did things turn out this way? I don't quite know how to say how I feel. lets chasing cars and count stars in outer space, before we get too old. 2010.2010 Evaluation
 Earlier this week, I wrote a To-Do-List. Lets see what has been accomplished! To Do List
Circumstances don't make the man, they reveal him. - James Allen Only through adversity do we see the true character of a person.  +charles+picture from LikeCool images was browsing the web while searching the web for examples to use in my exam when i came across this gadget invented by the japanese. LED eye lashes! Apparently its a earphone for mp3 player too. no idea how it works, don't wana know, but it sure looks cool. v space like v futuristic the only problem is : it adds to the already mysterious nature of women. :D All women are from mars. T-Mobile Dance
+charlesThis is the very reason why I want to work in the advertising industry ! Viral marketing The actual flash mob The making of it. Those three words are said too much
+charlesI suspect those were the three words that Snow Patrol was referring to in Chasing Cars. You think ? I ♥
we live in a beautiful world*
 +charles.mSomething I'll just like to share. :) Many weeks ago, I was reading 1 Corinthians 13. Many would know that 1 Corinthians 13 describes what Love is. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 4Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. I remember praying to God, asking God to help me understand each attribute of Love. I have highlighted the attributes in Bold. The very next day after I prayed thar prayer was a friday. Before OCF, Duo Wei, Ashley and I were pushing some stuff into the tutorial room. Just then, Duo Wei made a passing comment saying that he needs help with marketing. Ashley responded by saying "Charles can help!". For a moment, I was reluctant and I thought "errrrrrrr". I eventually decided to help Duo Wei because I felt it could be God using me to help others while teaching me the attributes of Love. The following week, I spent an hour a day from monday to thursday helping Duo Wei with marketing and some statistics. By the end of the week, I felt like I learnt more than Duo Wei did from the sessions. Having to explain dull concepts and sometimes having to repeat myself over and over again, was in fact, God's way of showing me what patience is all about. Coincidentally, patience is the first attribute of love as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. I'm very glad I helped Duo Wei and I'm also glad to have learnt something myself! In addition, Duo Wei did well for his exams! :) Truely a God of wonders, beyond our galaxy. Never, never, never give up
 +charles While I was walking home from church last saturday, I walked passed the Aston Martin show room. Out of curiousity, I leaned over and took a long glance at the cars. After which, I walked home pondering. I asked myself several questions. "what does it take to own a car like that?"
"What does it take to become successful" "Am I capable enough to reach the top?" I am not sure what are the answers to these questions. I may never know. However, I have a desire to reach the top. And I am going to try to reach the top. With my God given determination. What I’ve found with persistence is that even a broken clock is right twice a day. "Never, never, never give up" Winston Churchill Chris Martin is legend. Period.
WEEK 13!!
WEEK 13
To Do List
For all you people out there, Week 13 at Monash is like a signal/warning that EXAMS is coming soon! I'm officially 14 days away from the exams how is that! The tension, nervousness, the guilt, the lack of preparation, ALL sets in. Reality check hello! HORROR! Missionbells
 +charles Took a couple of photographs of my recent hair cut so that my hair dresser in singapore will have a good idea of what I want. Funny!
desperately wanting to move mountains for God
 +charles Matthew 9:19-22 19Jesus got up and went with him, and so did his disciples. 20Just then a woman who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak. 21She said to herself, "If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed." 22Jesus turned and saw her. "Take heart, daughter," he said, "your faith has healed you." And the woman was healed from that moment. Dear Lord Jesus, Teach me to be like the woman who touched the edge of your cloak. Teach and Guide me to have faith like her, Believing that even the edge of your cloak has the power to heal. In 1 Corinthians 12, Your word describes true faith as one of the spiritual gifts. Mould me to have unshakable Faith in You. Use me to move mountains and do Your works.For You say that even with Faith as small as a mustard seed, we can move mountains. In Jesus Most Precious Name, Amen. יַהְוֶה
+charles +the best cover of michael jackson - man in the mirror While I was reading today, Something within me asked just what exactly is the gift of true faith. Why is it that Peter, who has seen Jesus perform countless miracles, denied Jesus when tested. Yet, a roman officer who has only heard of Jesus, has faith far greater than any in israel. Amazing. BOOOOOOOOM
+charles.mAt brand management lecture today, the lecturer was talking about nobel prize winners. Out of curiousity, I asked rebecca what must one do to be a nobel prize winner. She paused for a while... and said... "invent something that BOOMZ?" I immediately broke out in laughter! For all you people out there who have no idea what this boomz joke is about, type RIS LOW BOOMS on youtube, and you'll get an idea. :) Horses of Swanston
 +charles.mToday, marks the first day... that I... SKIPPED TUTORIAL IN MONASH! I overslept. And I happily went to knock on my housemate's room to share the Meanwhile, I'v been rereading joshua harris' book. quite insightful Will update. time bomb
+charlesI'v been listening to Valerio Carboni's cover of Coldplay beautiful world. Love the red colour accent. Today has been productive i'd think. Spent some time studying for international marketing. Online tutorial didn't go too well yesterday. 25 students dumping their ideas and thoughts onto the forum, felt like organised chaos. I'm actually feeling very tired due to the lack of rest. I feel my eye sight getting worst. My back hurts whenever it gets too cold. Knee is in pain after years of running around wooden floors trying to hit shuttlecocks. Secretly, I could be a timebomb waiting to explode. I am tired. My pen feels like its worth a massive five kilograms. My head feels too heavy for my neck. my wardrobe feels like it can do with more cotton. alas Facebook should impose age limit
 I was checking my emails when "BOOMZ!" came an email from facebook notifying me that my "friends" would like to add me. I went to my account to check it out... and guess what? I have no idea who are these people. Facebook should increase its age limit to say 18 years old or something. charles needs to study
 Console me in my darkest hour Convince me that the truth is always grey Caress me in your velvet chair Conceal me from the ghost you cast away I'm in no hurry Busking for a living
+charles.mToday was spent in school preparing for exams. I'm officially done with presentations and assignments! I had a presentation today which turned out pretty well! Got back my strategic management assignment to which I scored distinction, so i'm happy! Stayed back in school for prayer meeting. Stayed back after prayer meeting to study. Needed to spend some time alone to myself see. While I was on my way home, I came across a busker along yarra river. Gave him 2 dollars and decided to have a seat and relax to his music for a while, all these under the rain. I think his guitar was out of tune or something, but its okay for me. :) I recorded part of his music, which is on the youtube link along with this post. Just got home, and here I am on my ranting ground. Tired and hoping to be more productive. The world through my eyes
+Charles
Missionbells is 2 years old!
 +charles+listening to 陳柏宇 - I Will Be Loving You Missionbells.blogspot.com is into its 2nd year! I started this site with a group of friends (mainly cherie, kyong and fiona), to log down our thoughts and weekly gatherings. It gradually became my ranting ground as I revamped it to log down my thoughts and feelings. Quite frankly, I'm really surprised and happy that I'm still here. :) Many stories ago, I was looking for her. Many stories later, I think I'v found the girl weathering the storm under the red umbrella with me. I just need to know what God thinks, and what she thinks. Sunny Sunday in Melbourne (at least for now)
 +charles Knowing that I like leather stuff, Mag made this card holder for me in the midst of her management assignment! I love the round button, gives it a very vintage look! love it! :):) Back to school work :( Surprise 24th Birthday!
+Charles+Surprise gathering at my place!             Before I share how has my day been, I would like to say a big big Thank You to everyone for the lovely surprise! I spent the day with Mag at docklands, doing some shopping, to which I bought a red flipclock and a journal. In actual fact, Mag was trying to get me out of my own home so that the rest of the guys can go decorate my place and prepare the food! I had a good time catching up with Mag, which I thought was very good, especially since she is going back to Singapore soon. When I got home, everyone were already at my place cooking/preparing yummilicious food! I'm very thankful for the people at OCF. Lovely bunch! We had a good time of fellowship and good food! They also stole my profile pic from FB and print it out to make a card! haha! I actually thought that was very funny! No doubt the best birthday I'v had! Thank you all for the effort! Very loved, Charles 1010
+charles.mToday I was pleasantly suprised! After OCF, we had supper at glen waverley. While we were eating, out of the blue, Mag and Rebecca appeared with a brownie and a candle, to which everyone sang me a very sweet happy birthday song! Mag made a really awesome card holder for me! I will take a picture of and post it up :) I enjoyed myself spending time with very good brothrs and sisters in christ :) Thanks guys for the awesome semester ! A goal without a plan is just a wish.- Antoine de Saint-Exupery (1900 - 1944) OCFC Untouchables 0 - 3 The Crew
+charlesToday marks the end of division 3 soccer season. And possibly OCFC untouchables? I am not sure. We lost to the crew 3-0 today due to three silly goals conceded in the second half. I have no qualms about todays game because we really gave it our best. I tapped on whatever prior experiences I had to defend our goal. Although our season did not go too well, there were several positives that emerged. 1) I got to know the rest of the OCF guys much better. 2) We were brought to our feet as we learn how to humble ourselves. 3) We stood by each other through adversity. Players willing to play out of position and do whatever it takes to carry the team through. 4) We played as brothers-in-christ. Which I felt was most important. While I was having lunch, my eye started to hurt quite badly. Quite a bad experience, but its much better now. :) Thank God. Jewel*
 +CharlesI had so many errands to run today that I am not even sure where to begin. First, I attended my marketing communications lecture which was addressing the issue of advertising ethics. It was a little dry but I hanged in there. Next, I went to reprint my entire international marketing assignment because I found a couple of typing errors within the assignment! Save the Trees! While waiting for my international marketing tutorial, I polished up on my strategic management presentation slides and report that is due next tuesday! School eventually ended at 8pm due to night classes. -_- To think I brought my strategic management textbook to school today thinking that I will have a chance to read it. Turns out, I was carrying the book around without even using it the entire day. The one bright spot of today was dinner. My housemate cooked up lamb with potato, onions and mushrooms. My housemate also fried two eggs and some rice. Dinner at 9.30pm! horaaay! I am deprived of sleep and I think I am ranting because I am on auto-pilot mode right now. Okay. nevermind that. On to other things. I was browsing through my photos when I found a picture of Jewel while we were still living in Bedok. I miss Jewel. :) day of blunder
+charles I hardly speak to you, not because I am not interested, but because I find it difficult striking a conversation with you. I am worried you mistake the situation because it really is not what it appears to be. I am just very bad at this. The road to Heaven is narrow
 +charles.ma Many years ago, Linus told me a story while I was in Bethesda Chapel which I would like to share with you today. One day, John was sitting on top of the wall that seperates Heaven and Hell. An angel came by and asked little John to jump over onto Heaven and walk with God. Little John replied "Nope! I'll just wait here. I will decide later.". The next day, the angel came back to persuade little John to dwell in the house of the Lord. Little John responded the same way as he did before. Two days later, the world came to an end. Out of panic, little John decided to jump onto Heaven. However, the devil came by and said "Hold on John! It is too late. You belong to Hell now". John responded by saying "But I was still sitting on the wall! I want to go to Heaven now". The devil then said "Didn't you know that this wall belongs to Hell too?". So just what exactly are we waiting for ? Sometimes I hear Christians who claim they believe in God, but they are not ready for God yet. They claim that they have issues and problems they need to settle before going to God. But little do they know that God can help them solve their problems. The devil enjoys seeing you fight your battles alone without tapping on the power of God. So why let the devil have its way ? 這樣最好
I came across this ad which I felt was very sweet. As long as you think it is the best, it doesn't really matter what other people think. :) Cuter the shoes, the more blister you get!
+charles Last evening, I was invited to jojo and mich's place for a time of good food and fellowship with fellow ocf-ers from caulfield. As part of our contribution, Rebecca and I prepared 10 massive braised drumsticks topped with carrots, onions, potatoes and red wine. Took almost an hour to prepare that dish so I'm glad it turned out fairly well! While at jojo's place, I had an awesome time mingling around and getting to know the people around me better! After dinner, we all (less mich) headed down to albert park to light up our lanterns and eat mooncakes! I honestly didn't think I would ever get to experience carrying lanterns around down under. We also had a impromptu skit of the lantern festival/mooncake story which I felt was very funny! I had an awesome time in the company of very good people. And I only have God to thank that He has placed very loving people in my life even when I'm far away from home. We took some pictures but they are not uploaded yet. Hopefully the pictures turn out well! Will get them up if possible. :) On to other things... While I was having a chat with a old friend today, I noticed she had a very very funny display picture which I would like to share with you folks! I think this graph is so true, that it should be included in some economics theory! :P Hope that put a smile on your face :)  Have a good week ahead! I will exalt you
+charles +happy bright sunny sunday in melbourne if you've not heard of Hillsong's latest project, I urge you to click on the play button. Today at bridge church, we sang this song and I could feel the holy spirit stirring up great things from within me. I'm one month away from exams and its getting quite nervous for me. Have been praying for a clear mind so that I can stay focused to absorb all the knowledge and information I need to tackle my exam. If you have any free time, or need a reaosn to speak to God, you can include me in your prayer! thank you very much! Looking forward to a new week already! Bathroom Singer
 +Charlesxoxo ☺ +Listening to Radiohead - Reckoner Like most people, social media aka. Facebook is taking much too much of my My internet routine begins when I type my password ********* to log myself in to my laptop. After which I'll check if my wireless is up. Next, I'll doubleclick on firefox and login to Facebook. oh wait, I don't even need to login cause my id/password is autosaved on my laptop (Makes things a whole lot easier). Facebook has rised up so quickly on my priority list that it is not funny anymore! For instance, whenever my internet connect gets cranky, I'll type "www.facebook.com" and type Enter just to check if my internet is up and running! How is that for an addiction! With the exams around the corner, I have decided to limit my use of fb. Just so that I have more time to As such, I conclude that Facebook is evil. From a brand management perspective, I'm beginning to see my personality and physical appearance as a product. Charles is its brand. And http://www.facebook.com/CharlesMaWenHan being the retail outlet. People patronise my shop to gather more information and check out what i'v been up to. I feel my privacy has been invaded!Horror! Aging Stallion
 Forever YoungI want to be Forever Young  Marketing Lesson No. 1: You know you are brand loyal when your shoes look similar. Walk at Yarra
  I wonder if that was what Colin Gurner fell in love with.
 Sir, what happens when you stop stirring the jars of clay ? The jars of clay will harden and become stiff. +charles.m Its monday and I'm feeling good today. Taking things slow, all at my own pace. Been quite a while since I last dictated how I wish to spend my time. I'm in the lib spending some good quality time to myself doing assignment. Yes, I know it sounds boring. But really, I enjoy it. That is my purpose in melb. To study :) All things red are ♥
 and that includes my passport.
How Jesus got the name "Christ"?
Jesus is the Messiah - Messiah means the Anointed One. Messiah in Greek is called "Christos" so that is how the name Christ came about. shortest hide and seek game !
 +charles.mAfter many late nights and OT, I'm finally in the last phrase of my assignment!☺☺☺☺ Not too long ago, Mag and I were just talking about the assignment and now its coming to an end. Time really isn't waiting for anyone. The semester is coming to an end very shortly! That also means that good friend Mag is going back to S'pore for good. So anyway, next week is mid semester break. I really need to pull up my socks and start preparing for my exams thats occuring in early november. I'v booked my flight back to singapore on 1st dec. I'll probably be back for 2 months. While I am looking forward to the charkwayteow,laksa,chicken rice,carrot cake... [The list will keep going on], I am going to dread the humid weather. Last night I managed to find some time to skype with siewlian. She just got married 3 days ago! I'm so happy for her! I saw the pictures of fb and I really wished I could have been there for such a special event. I can still recall the first time i met siewlian. I met her at my first training at sbh, and she was teaching me how to hold my racket. v v happy for her :) Okay on a random note, I was listening to some songs that I used to listen in the 90s. And I suddenly miss the cheesy 1990s ! haha! thats that  +charles.mEach time I write to you, I wonder if you exist. I love the smell of leather!
 While I was shopping at brunswick today, I came across a bag that I'v been eyeing at FAT for months! I'm so thankful I found it. The bag cost me quite a bit, but I feel good bags don't come by all the time and this one will last me a long time. Decided to give myself a treat :P v happy!
Hearts break, Flowers die, Feelings fade.
+charles.mMoments ago, Gwas sharing with me her recent break up with E. She was sharing how she felt heart brokened, tired, cheated and lost. Very interestingly, she was telling me how E said that the feelings between the both of them have faded. It reminded me of the funkyhairdo days. I'll just share it again. As much as we like to experience the good feeling whenever we see our eye candy in school or when that guy/girl finally sends you a message, its temporal... really. Our Feelings, which guide our emotions, is constantly fluctuating. This is evident as we can experience sadness, happiness and excitement all in a day. If Love is a feeling, then wouldn't our love for our family members, friends and most importantly, God, fluctuate too ? The bible says God is Love. If Love is a feeling, wouldn't it imply that God's love for us is fluctuating too ? Surely not. Reason being: Love is not a feeling. Love is a commitment. It is a commitment to another party. A commitment does not fade. A commitment does not fluctuate. That is exactly why whenever people get married, they say wedding vows. They vow to commit their lives to one another. That is probably the best example I can think of to describe what Love is. Having said that, I am very thankful that my God,mom,dad,sis, my cat and dog is commited to me! :) Tear Down the Walls
 Mom and myself worshipping God in sunny s'pore. mom is wearing her favourite purple little nonya outfit♥I miss going to church with mom on sundays. I miss going with mom to visit grandma. I miss the times when mom nag at me to tidy my room. I miss how mom tries to explain to me why is it important to eat cabbage and tofu. My grandma and grandpa from my father's family tree passed away due to cancer when I was a kid. So mom always tries to include cancer prevention food such as tofu and cabbage into my diet whenever I'm eating at home. Mom will be visiting me in Melbourne next month! She will be in Melbourne for a month to make sure I don't skip my meals and look after me while I'm preparing for my exams! I'm looking forward to mom's cooking and nagging! She'll be very shocked at the way I fold my clothes. hahaha! I can't wait to see her epic expression! On to other things. Today is smelly Kelly melly's actual birthday. 
Faith like the Wind
While I was at going at my assignments this afternoon, I decided to opened my sliding door to get some fresh air. The weather today has been love, so I figured I might as well make the most of the weather. I went for a jog along the yarra river. Managed to clock 5km in 22 minutes. When I got tired, I took a seat by the river just to enjoy the breeze and fresh air. I also took a walk around the botanical gardens, which I thought was so beautiful! There were people walking their dogs, playing freesbie, bbq-ing and having picnicks. I wish I had brought my camera! :)While I was jogging, I could feel the wind blowing against my face. It was then that I recall the movie "A walk to remember" where Mandy Moore said "Faith is like the wind. You know its there but you can't see it". In the same way, I know God is there, yet I can't see him. But I can see His works and plans for me gradually taking place. So anyway, I wish to go for another jog next sunday evening, only this time I'll try to capture some photos! The coming week will be rough, tough and intensed. Yet I am looking forward to fighting my own personal battle to achieve my goals. I want to be victiorious! Kelly's 20th Birthday
 Jojo, Jason, myself, Rebecca, Marc and Eugene @ Kelly's birthday :) Kelly, the birthday girl, and myself One big group of people. myself with christine, michelle and eunice. our photographer got himself into the picture too :):: With the AGM just over, a new chapter begins for OCF caulfield. I felt that the committee was very well chosen. I am already looking forward to this new chapter, praying and supporting them in whichever way that I can; just before my stint in melbourne ends. :) Charles I am loving my saturday!
Today is so beautiful.I woke up this morning thinking of God's goodness. Spent my early afternoon out with auntie Michele and John, we went to South Melbourne market to take a look. Had a great time catching up with them :) I also bought a sweet basil plant for my room. Oh and its strawberries season now, so strawberries are really cheap! I bought 3 boxes of strawberries for $5 dollars! :) Anyway, while at OCF last evening, Jin was sharing how God has been such a faithful provider for him and his family. Coincidentally, while I was listening to Desert Song by Hillsong today, somewhere in the lyrics it reads "My God is the God who provides". I think its so true. There is never one time that my family have been insufficient. We are not financially very sound, yet mom and I get by each day through God's grace. I am very thankful that God is so faithful and that I have a relationship with him. I am amazed at how someone so insignificant like me can speak to the Creator of the Universe so freely! The best part is, He listens and response to our prayers in due time! I am amazed! Crib walk part 2 !
Improved video of the previous one.This was a planned routine, so its slightly smoother :) Been busy with presentation, soccer and video making. I'v been good and well. In fact, I'm very happy these days despite the work load! Because I am having the best time of my life at the moment, enjoying student life and the weather :P Yay! It won't be long before I get you by my side uh uh expression
me c-walking to Timbaland - Kill yourself1)slide glide 2)shuffle 3)moonwalk 4)heel toe 5)snake heel toe 6)v-variations I just got the hang of heel toe and snake heel toe so its quite jerky there. So sorry I got too near the camera towards the end! :P Had fun recording my first crib-walk video. I'll do more when I'm free! And you know its funny how this post contradicts the previous one cause I mentioned how i was busy with assignments ? hehe! alas! Enjoy!  Last thursday was much needed. While walking home from school, I decided to grab a icecream, soak up the weather and chill by yarra river. It was almost like my world was at a stand still, in the midst of the truckloads of work, where time didn't matter for the moment. For once, I felt like the eternal being that I was created to be. The past 2 weeks and the next 3 will be hectic and rough, with assignment deadlines drawing near. Other then work, I'v been doing very well minus the fact that I fell ill last week! :P 3 things I need to say before the week is over. 1) Happy birthday cheryl♥ 2) Happy birthday abbie♥ 
ray of light
8:45AM my alarm clock read.I was woken up by the irritating beep from my alarm clock. I was very reluctant to wake up and get changed for school. Until I decided to look out of my window to check the weather. I looked afar at Telstra dome and I saw rays of light shining through the clouds. It really reminded me of God's glory. How he pulled me out from darkness and into the light. It made my day and my week. Mt Buller
    Yesterday I made the trip up to Mt Buller with my friends from the singapore club. The trip up was 4 hours so I had to take my motion sickness pills; to which I felt drowsy (yes the pills cause drowsiness). The skiing was damn fun, and the snow fights were so hilarious! I enjoyed riding on the skii lifts too :) However, someone crashed onto me while i was skiing. and I'm bruised (maybe scarred) on the jaw. Alas, we'll see how it goes. Its been an awesome trip and good semester so far! heartless
found this on leah's fb profile; thought i share :) Above all wealth and treasures of the earth, there is no way to measure what God is worth.
 Monash University, Caulfield campus.By far the longest weekend I have had in many months. Given the trial that I am going through, I am reminded of how powerful yet graceful my heavenly father is. who are you
Today is life changing for me. I had a heated argument with my father, and I lost tremendous amount of respect for him as a person, and as a father. Today, I learnt that my father is not a person I can depend on. I find it difficult to connect with him, and I honestly feel he has to re-evaluate how what being a parent and a person mean. At times, I wonder... just who exactly is my father ? Happy National Day Singapore!
 myself in melbourne  cynthia with her ndp tatoo that faded!  my housemate with her face tatoo while we were watching the ndp telecast.  jason, pamela and myself being pro singapore! Had our ndp celebration at melbourne uni this evening which I felt was awesome! The food tasted really singaporean and the bandung drink was the best I'v tasted since arriving in melbourne. I enjoyed the ndp even though I am so far from home. And it felt good to sing our singapore songs and even stand up to say the pledge together! Which reminds me, I miss home. :) feels like I'v not been writing my thoughts as frequently. I guess it could be the amount of work thats been piling up (not that I am doing). I'v been pretty much involved with soccer and school. Looking forward to this weekend already. Why? Because tonight its the ndp pre event party and its mambo night! This sunday the ndp will be screened at melb uni, to which i heard its fullhouse now. Hope to take some nice pictures then! meanwhile, the muse's latest single is out. its called uprising :) check it out!   I'v been very busy with various activities in school this past week. I attended the overseas christian fellowship welcome night and the singapore club's makan night on friday. And I'v been trying to catch up on my school work, though its only week 2. The thing about the semester is such that time passes so quickly, in a blink of an eye! So I am striving to work consistently through the semester, and hopefully go one better this semester. I held a potluck over at my apartment last evening with my friends. Turned out to be a huge success considering all the food turned out really well! After dinner, we caught Public enemies at the crown. I thought the show was very decent, and clearly puts christian bale back into perspective, as compared to johnny depp. :) Looking forward to week 3! Busy with school
my random amusement
    I'll appreciate it so much if you'd not steal any of my photos and carry them off as your own. All pictures posted on this site is taken by me. If you would like to use them, drop me a note, I am usually cool. rebecca's suprise 20th birthday!
 For the past two days, We've been organising Rebecca's (my house mate) 20th birthday celebration! I was in charge of making reservations while Cynthia, Pamela, Sherlene and Junjun went hunting for Rebecca's birthday gift! I told Rebecca that I would be taking her out for dinner tonight at 6pm. She had no idea that the rest of the group were already at the restuarant waiting for her arrival! It was a pleasant suprise for her, and I guess we all felt good that we made her day! Dinner was very good! We ate at Chilli Padi and I thought the food was authentic asian, though it was a little bit pricey. Pamela bought a mini cupcake for Rebecca which I felt was very thoughtful :) After dinner, we went to mind cafe at Lygon street to play board games. Yep, its very similar to the mind cafes in Singapore. We were really fortunate as we had the entire upper level to ourselves, with truckloads of big beanbags to tug around. We played polar bear, murderer, taboo (Sherlene emerged champion, shes damn good!) and imaginiff! And it only cost us AUD$8.50 for 4 hours, which included a drink! :) The semester has been smooth so far (its only week 1), and I'm thankful for the friends I'v made! :) I'm already looking forward to more of such gatherings and the upcoming NDP screening in melbourne! :) Once agian, I'll like to thank everyone involved for making Rebecca's birthday a success! :) Thank you all!         
memories
I found some old pictures in my treasure chest which I thought would be interesting to share! :) Enjoy! My 2nd birthday, 1987. :)  Dad with mandy and I.  Mommy and I. :D As you can see, my love for red and strips started way back!  All the boys of the Ma family with my late grandpa and grandma.  First trip to Canada and first time meeting grandma.  Charlie boy.  My one and only beloved elder sister :) Can you see the bedok reservoir in the background? :D These photos serve as a good reminder to me of the effort and time my mom has invested in me all these years. :) You are very loved! (Yes, my mom does surf my site!) Cheers! Melbourne at night
I was on my way to the atm machine to withdraw some money when I decided to take some pictures of the scenery around the city area for keeps sake. I think if I have to sum up my life in Melbourne in pictures, these pictures would probably say quite a bit. Bridge at Yarra river. I'v to cross this bridge every day to get to flinders station.  Yarra river.  View of Flinders street from Federation Square.  Federation Square.  Flinders station.  Junction. I was not able to capture a clear picture of the ads. It was so bright and my hands weren't still.  City trams. I'v been punk'd
Today marks my first day of 2nd semester in 2nd year of uni. And it turned out horrible. I put up my textbooks for sale on the monash portal and I found a buyer for my marketing research textbook. I reluctantly agreed to meet the buyer at 9am in school even though my class was at 11am as the buyer had to head to work at 10am. Nevermind that. Before I carry on, I need to put things in context. Meeting at 9am in school is as good as me waking up at 7am and squeezing with the morning crowd on the train. 7am in Melbourne is almost like the best time to be in bed sleeping. Why? Because the coldest time of the day is when the sun rises, which is close to 7am. I rushed to the library in the morning cold, feeling all sleepy... and I waited for the bugger to arrive. I texted+called him/her and there was no reply. That was when I learnt that I'v been pranked... -_- I felt so grumpy, and so angry, with 2 hours to spare, lacking sleep, and CARRYING VERY HEAVY BOOKS on the first day of school. Not being able to sell the books meant that I have to delay buying the books i need for this semester. On to better things, I thought my marketing communications lecturer was really entertaining! Shes very animated. She brought some fruits and a blender, and started blending a fruit juice and offered it to the lecture group! and while she was blending it, she wore a long white lab suit! quite hilarious really. Other than that, it has been a very gloomy rainy cold day in Melbourne. Winter in Melbourne
Yes, I arrived in Melbourne safely and smoothly! The flight was very boring as the krisflyer entertainment was not working well. I was not able to make it to school as I only got home at 1030am(Melbourne time) while my class is at 11am. I'v only been away for 20 days, and yet the weather has changed so drastically! It is really freezing here in Melbourne! My feet gets numb and my heater has been on since I got home! I am going to spend the rest of the day unpacking my stuff and do some grocery shopping for the coming week. It was a real pleasant suprise to know that so many of my friends bothered to turn up to send me off at the air port! I had no idea Mak, Shujuan, AliceKitty, Kyong and Sue would be at the air port! I'm sorry I was not able to catch up with some of my friends, but i will definitely make time in december when I'm back for internship.  My sister and brother-in-law with me  Linus(My partner-in-crime) and Hitomi. You guys have not seen my true monopoly skills.  Ruizhi and Siewlian. Thanks for giving me a lift and organising the gathering! :)  Mak, Cherie and Fiona, less Kyong who had to leave earlier. Thank you for the gift and the suprise!  Sue and Juan. Thanks for making the trip down! :) much appreciated. And the last picture... just for fun.  Myself looking nervous + waiting for someone special to arrive? Thank you!
On this trip back to Singapore, I'v been able to meet up with many friends! All of which specially took time out to meet up with me, which is very heartwarming.I would like to say a BIG THANK YOU to zhizhong, abbie, angel, kazumi, hitomi, linus, safhari, guang de, shimin, victor, mingfeng, lester, cerian, ruizhi, ruisheng and siewlian for taking time out to catch up with me! Special thanks to Linus who took 1/2 day leave to go fishing with me! I'v not been able to catch up with everyone, but I'll definitely have more time when I am back in december! In december, I will be back for 3 months! :) This trip has been fruitful and enjoyable! I also managed to spend some quality time with mom and family! So I'm very happy despite school starting TODAY!!! I foresee that once I'm back in Melbourne, the workload will come in immediately. =( Alright, I look forward to my next trip back in Singapore! My next trip back to Singapore could be in september, but it will only be for a short few days. That I have not confirmed yet. Once again, i'll like to say a big thank you to those who made my stay in Singapore a good one! many loves :) My bags are packed
As with every good story plot, the end of the chapter often ends with a twist.My bags are almost packed for melbourne, less the last minute knick knacks.  However, every now and then, I find self-invited stuff in my lugguage.  And he appears serious about going to melbourne with me -_- 
Kazumi and Angel
 Yesterday I met up with kazumi and angel. Been quite a while since the three of us went out. We went to east coast to chill and catch up on each others' lives. Today was spent with family members. Its my granny's birthday. :) brb. Pleasant Suprise
While I was having dinner with Shimin and Victor today, I received a text message from Pamela informing me that my results are out. I was all jittery and worried, that I called my house mate, who is the only person who knows my login password for my monash portal, to check my results! To my suprise, I did much better than I had expected!Thank God for providing me with the wisdom and strength throughout the semester to work continuously and consistently. God has helped me by allowing me to cross paths with various people who have assisted me in my studies and in my stay in melbourne in general. My results are as follows : MANAGERIAL COMMUNICATION (MGF1100) : High Distinction ORGANISATIONAL BEHAVIOUR (MGF2111) : Distinction INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS (MGF2351) : High Distinction MARKETING RESEARCH METHODS (MKF2121) : High Distinction Horaaay! Count day: 4 days to Melbourne
A series of good and bad events have occured for me today.I tend to prefer to begin with the unpleasant events. Well, while I am trying to remain calm, I just realised that.... I have forgotten to pay my school fees and I am 7 days late! I went to the school website and I checked what are the consequences, to which i realised that they will ban my from entering the monash portal and that would mean i can't check my results, which will be out on friday. Now that is quite a kick in the teeth. I have no idea how I can entirely forget about it. So anyway, I need to make the payment today. The time table for the coming semester is officially out, and I just checked it and am very happy. I'v thursday free again, and I'v only got an hour of class on monday. Most of my classes start at eleven so I don't have to rush for the train. Results will be out very shortly, and it is making me quite jittery. Outside of school, I spent the evening with Cerian today. Did some shopping and browsing. Had my favourite soup spoon and max brenner. To which I felt quite bloated. It just crossed my mind today that I have 4 more days in sunny Singapore before I head back to melbourne. I heard from friends in melbourne that its getting ridiculously cold, so I'm really really dreading it. Nevertheless, I'm looking forward to spending the next four days wisely. :) 
Walk
While we were having mangosteen last night, my mom proposed I take jewel for a W-A-L-K.She literally spelled out W A L K. So I asked her why did she do that. She explained that Jewel gets very excited when we say WALK. And she did not want to disappoint Jewel just in case I did not want to take Jewel for a W A L K! Thank you Charlie!
 Hongkong trip was a blast for me! I spent my first night in Hongkong with family. We had dinner at a teowchew restuarant which I enjoyed entirely. Day 2 was spent at Macau and ZhuHai. We took a ferry to Zhuhai (some part of china) for lunch, before proceeding to Macau. While we were at Macau, we went to visit some of the casinos. The casinos were really grand. So anyway, while I was in Macau, I was rather puzzled because people were smoking in air conditioned restuarants. Something that really turned me off. The weekend in Hongkong was spent with Charlie and friends. Charlie is a friend I got to know in monash, through our international business tutorial group. She took me around tsim sha tsui, mongkok and causeway bay. We went to kowloon tong and diamond hill too! To which I managed to get my hands on my favourite smely beancurb! The food in hongkong is awesome, as usual! Did some shopping, didn't really buy much though. I'm very thankful to Man, Charlie and friends for playing such good host to me during my stay in Hongkng. Charlie's dad even gave me a lift to the air port. On the whole, this trip to Hongkong has been very fruitful and it helped me to brush up on my very broken cantonese. :) Below are some photos of my trip.        Thank you Charlie! damage control
 Since returning to Singapore, I'v bought 4 pairs of shoes! 2 of which was from HK. :) I will talk about my hongkong trip soon ;) Be Right Back
I'm going to Hongkong today and I'll be back on sunday night. :)On this trip, I hope to spend some quality time with my father and maybe do some shopping. Its been a while since I last went to HK, and I hear that its changed alot, so I'm looking forward to it. I am also looking forward to visiting my relatives while in HK! :) Very interestingly, I met a friend in monash last semester who is from HK. She has volunteered to take me around over the weekend while my dad is playing golf. So we'll see how that work out! I hope to take many pictures, and maybe post some of them up on the site! Yesterday was very fruitful. I went fishing with old pal linus. We caught up on the good old times! Be back soon! 
Badminton and Sunset way
      Managed to catch up with my old kakis for a game of badminton. It was quite a backbreaking experience for me as usual since Ruisheng, Ruizhi and Siewlian have been playing regularly. The tempo of the game was definitely faster than the club which I play in in Melbourne. After badminton, we headed to a restuarant in seletar called sunset way. I felt the resturant was really good as it was facing the run way and there was a clear view of the sunset. There were also small planes flying around and landing on the run way. So its thumbs up for couples, but you'll need a car to get in. I enjoyed catching up with my kakis and knowing they are doing well. Siewlian is getting married this september, to which I am trying my best to arrange a flight back to Singapore to give her and Kok Hwee my support. I'm very delighted that God has showered his blessings over my loved ones, and that the people around me are doing well! Glory be to God! Jewel*
 Secretly, I think Jewel understands what I say, although it can be quite gibberish and nonsensical at times. She is such a sweet heart really. In case you don't already know, Jewel is my companion. She is turning 7 this August. And since I won't be around to celebrate her birthday, I figured I dedicate a post to her. Here are some random facts about Jewel. Jewel ... 1) swam in bedok reservoir before! Sis and I were canoeing at the reservoir while Jewel and mom was at the platform when Jewel got so excited, she decided to jump into the water and swam towards our canoe! 2) tore her ligament last october. To which, the vet and I operated on her. 3) had an operation two years ago due to kidney problem. 4) is overweight and very cheeky. She would refuse to let me wash her feet after her walks. Instead, she would go hide under the bed. 5) sleeps with me on my bed whenever I'm back in Singapore. 6) thinks I am mad because shes seen my ridiculous bathroom dance moves and comic relief. 7) is mentor to my cat, Garfield. Yes, I'v a cat and a dog. Garfield is 2 years old. 8) shares the same water bowl as Garfield 9) hates it when I blow at her face. She snorts at me when I do that. 10) loves me the most :) I think my mother is actually God's angel in disguise.
This will probably sound so bias, but I seriously think my mom is the best mother in the world. My mother is the most forgiving, compassionate, loving and humble person I have ever met in my entire life. And I can back it up with evidence. Each time I come back to Singapore for a holiday, I will always have an agenda. This time around, I want to accomplish 3 things. Firstly, I wanted to have a good and long chat with my mom and get to know her alot better. Secondly, I want to spend quality time with my father. Thirdly, I want to take a well deserved break from all the studying I was doing and let my hair down. I spent some time talking to mom an hour ago and I got to know her a whole lot better. It feels like as though I was making a new friend. And here are just some of the many things I learnt about my mom. 1)My mom still sends money to our first maid who lives in Sri Lanka on an annual basis on her birthday and christmas. 2)My mom has forgiven my father entirely for what occured 20 years ago. In fact, my mom still keeps my dad in prayer, in hope that he finds joy and happiness. 3)My mom gave 10% of the money from the sale of our previous house to the church. 4)My mom visits an old folks home weekly and takes care of the old folks there, buying them biscuits and snacks on each visit. 5)My mom is so compassionate, she always lends a helping hand to the people around her. Which sometimes bugs me because shes lent thousands to friends without expecting them to return. 6)My mom prays for me every single day, without fail. I have heard of how amazing a mother's love is. I am very thankful to God, that He has blessed me with a mom that loves me through and through. I am also very thankful to God for my mom, who has such great character. She has and is always going to be my role model. Very loved and very blessed. I'm back!
 I'm finally home! The flight home was dizzy and tiring. Guess it was my motion >sickness kicking in again. I did beat the holland guy sitting next to me on the plane in multiplayer mario bros though! After arriving in Singapore, I rushed home to put my stuff before rushing to timbre for pamela's birthday! Happy birthday Pamela! and thanks to the rest for accompanying me to eat hawker food after timbre! I had a plate of roti john, hokkien mee and carrot cake all at one go! I think thats what melbourne does to me! deprived of local food. So anyway, its 3am now and I ought to go to bed! My twenty days countdown begins now. Genesis
Now that my examinations have ended, I will be heading back home to the greener pastures of Singapore today! Its winter in Melbourne now, so the weather can get quite dreadful. I'v been praying that I do not need to be quarantined when I arrive in Singapore, else it just dampens the holiday mood. In any case, I'v armed myself with a n95 SARS mask, just in case the person beside me on the plane is a alleged/prospective/suspected swine flu victim! :P After much trial and error, I'v done up the tag box so its looking all neat and tidy now. I'v got much packing to do since exams ended yesterday! Will update when I get back in Singapore! I have missed home so much :) 
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