Take My Five loaves & Two fishes
You can use it Lord, to feed em' all

I'm about through with the first week of my holidays and honestly, it's not all that fantastic. Probably it is because my schedules are not packed to the brim, and I am just idling my time away. Maybe, I need a job. But then again, where do I find time when BA preparations are up ahead?

Nevermind, we'll drop that.

Barbeque at Kim's house was fantastic, absolutely amazing. I arrived early and join the other three girls in preparing for the birthday surprise. Yes, we were celebrating Marcus, Clement, Weng Wah and William's birthday; namely those whose birthdays fall within the first three months. We mahjong-ed, smoked ourselves by the pit and simply enjoyed each other's company. When the clock struck seven, it was time for me to leave. Unwilling to, I stalled as much time as I could, and finally dragged my foot across the hall after singing the birthday song and snapping a final shot.


Carmen at Kim's house


The girls and the two antisocials


Our birthday kids, and the homebaked apple pie


My oh-so-wonderful classmates


This is what they did after I left, our all time favourite Indian Poker

Well, caregroup was cool too. Though I was an hour late, I haven't missed all the fun. The leaders celebrated Boss Sng's birthday with a mini potluck.

Oh! That reminds me, happy belated birthday Sng-good-ol'-brother :: ) Thank you for all you have given for this region, mighty man of God! And as you have blessed all of us, may God also bless you exceedingly and abundantly. Keep going my dear friend, and keep that fire burning steady in your heart! By the way, to us, you'll always be young! Get married soon, oh I mean best wishes:: DD


Here's the birthday hero! Though he isn't looking much like one.

I'll update you folks on the BA chalet soon, when the photos come in. Uhem, I'm hinting at you, camera men/women (especially Uncle Seah W.J)

G, I Feel Your Arms Around me

Today is day1 of my holidays, and I am doing what I do best; just lazing around at home. After a week of intensive, last minute revision, all of a sudden I feel so unoccupied now. There was even a sudden urge to go straight home after service yesterday to study. Now look what the examination week has done to me. Haha, but worry not. I adjust to holidays much faster than anything else.

So, it has been a beautiful weekend with no exams to worry about. With ease at heart, playing becomes possible.

The Edge on Saturday was great as Jeremy tied up the series on Heroes. And now, all of us are equipped and ready to save the day, going 'up up and away'! Nonetheless, you can forget the red underwear and tight, tight outfit. Because all you really need is the Father's love and compassion because this is the secret portion that sets you flying.

Following, it was Missions Sunday. Jireh, Angie, Joel and Joanne on behalf of the youths, presented a song item. Ah, you see the talents blessed by God uncovered:: ) Even the little children had a part to play. They hosted a costume competition and I melted at the sight of the little ones, some looking lost, some postured great confidence.

Going deeper, we as the congregation are reminded that there are nations out there waiting to be reached, to be loved. With His presense sweeping through the congregation, how could I be missed? Indeed, God has burn a new heart for missions within me. From 'going because VFC is a missions church' to 'going because I want to'. Although great uncertainties lie in the way, I will trust the heart of God and be guided by His voice.

Till grace amazing takes me home, I'l trust in You.

To The Ends of The Earth, For You

I can finally proclaim aloud, "it's crazy holidays!" And I am anticipating the crazy schedule up ahead because I forsee a fun one too.

After CIP (Computing and Information Processing) papers yesterday, and after my 2hours sleep over the entire night before, classmates and I went to have some crazy fun time down at town! And it has been a long time since I spent that much of money already. Yes Kim, we share the same sentiments. Haha, but believe it or not, Carmen went to play pool. You saw it correctly, it's pool. I have to admit, I'm totally foreign to this game, though it's already the second time I've gotten my hands on the table. Maybe I just need a shorter stick. LOL! Some pool-pro needs to teach me a skill or two:: D

Overall yesterday was a good day spent with precious ones. That just sets me in the right mood for the upcoming class barbeque at Kim's home of creepy crawlies. I need to get some Bygone from the convenience store later, haha. So dear classmates, miss me till then!

Following BA (Business and Accountancy) Society has a chalet on the very next day. See, I just told you it's some crazy programs lined up this holidays. This would definitely be a great chance to bond before the preparations set in. And I have dedicated this holidays for the orientations and some great catching up. Dear God, expand this time.

Beats me why, but somehow I feel this following space is to be dedicated to Tham Mei Lian, Michelle. Maybe it's because there is so much within me that I have to thank this girl for; the constant encouragements and big, big hugs. Michelle, you mean a lot to me, more than you can imagine:: )

Probably due to the fact that we grew up together, been through so much together, it also makes it easier to lose my temper in front of her. Haha, not that it's a good thing, but closeness is the only channel that allows emotions and feelings to flow. I thank God for you, so small but you taught me, good things come in small packages.

So, dear (small) cousin, I pray that God will continue to bless you and bless this kinship between us. Don't just outgrow your shirts, but also, keep growing in your faith and love for God. Let your life shine before all men to see, that they may know that He is the way, the truth and the light. Last but not least, I love you dear.

Now, it's time to run to The Edge. See you folks!

I Don't Want to Go
Somewhere, If I Know that You're Not There - Avalon

You must have thought the first thing I did upon reaching home was to hit the sack, well, I thought so too.

Today was the BSTATS (Business Statistics) papers; my second last paper. On a good note, it just signifies that holidays are coming really soon! But of course, when you mention statistics or anything to do with mathematics, there can't be much of a celebration. We, Maths and I, just don't get along. I had a hard time revising yesterday not being able to make any good sense out of the formulas, and had minimal rest. Yes, thanks to you my good friend, stats.

But of course, I gave my best and battled through the paper in that silent hall. And thank God, I survived. That in itself, is quite a miracle:: ) But more importantly, thank God for the strength and peace through the paper.

I'm anticipating Friday, the end of examinations and start of my long term break. Although I can forsee a busy schedule, at the very least, I'm away from books:: D

Above that, classmates and I are heading for town, for a sumptous meal and pure fun. Why, I'm getting excited already. Beginning to dip myself into the summer pool, a little too early and a little too much. Haha! Remind me again, I have one last paper.

Earlier on, as I stepped through the doors, the phone rang. 'Something happened to Mum' (in Chinese), came the shaky voice through the receiver. Certainly it wasn't a call for me, anonymous probably dialled the wrong number in anxiety. However, it had me thinking; life can be so 'full of surprises'. Yet, I still hadn't the courage to speak love to endeared ones, like Dad. It's probably a cultural or upbringing issue, but still I pray for the courage to breakthrough someday. That with my lips, I would tell Dad the gratitude kept within and this love unspoken of.

Lastly, before i close this post, congratulations to all who are making it to the school of their choice. I'm referring to the O'level students of course. And I'm already looking forward to see more familiar faces in Ngee Ann; Catch you soon!

Lighthouse

It's day one of semester end exams, and it was the OB (Organisation Bahviour) papers. Was not exactly nice to be back in school when you know you're about to sit for a series of papers for the next few days. But classmates were there to accompany, my company of angbao, oh, I meant red:: )

MIEC (Microecons) paper will start soon, in 19 hours. And once again, Carmen wonders what is she doing facing this screen. Haha, my brain just needs some breathing from pure notes, the ruthless murderer! And I'm pretty sure fellow course mates will nod their heads at that.

Things are beginning to become slightly different, now going to school doesn't feel all the same anymore. Not just a place for books and to compete who ace the modules, but a parched ground waiting to be watered, a harvest waiting to be reaped! So fellow workers of the field, and more to come, it's time to bring out your farming equipment and reap this harvest!

Alright, it is now time to study as I anticipate my steamboat's arrival and for it to get dressed up for my tummy:: ) Stomach can't wait much longer, food, come home quick!

I am happy cause Celine Tay sat beside me on the green chair at The Edge. Study hard too dear girl, I know you can beat those papers to pulp! And Chen Xiaowei, you always make my day with your affirmation riding on radiation:: ) Thank You, and you are loved greatly too.

Look Out! Cause We're Turning this City Around

The clock spells 2am, and I wonder what am I doing here. Maybe it's only because I have got much to talk about from today's service. But of course, I won't bore you with an encore, and in any case, my fingers can't carry that amount of typing (you know how naggy I can get).

Jeremy brought us through another sermon on 'Heroes' and it was amazing, like always. Just as the television series is, this can get equally exciting, or even better. When you begin to open your eyes to see the things that God has in store not only for you but for the people around you, you know that life's new chapter has just begun. Then you realise that you can no longer sit around and whistle all day long, but stand up and do the 'a man(woman)'s got to do what a man(woman)'s got to do' thing. So look out, cause we're turning this city around!

Now that numbness had fled and my heart's burning once more, I'll begin to run this lap of faith like how men before me did. Cheer me on dear friends, cause the air is foggy and the road isn't easy. But whom shall I fear when I've got Big Daddy on my side?

And it's time for you to also take up your slingshot and roar in the face of that man standing ten foot tall. Like how Joanna Wong always declares it, 'we are going to rob Hell and populate Heaven!'

Before I bid world goodnight and probably stay up to finish all my undone revision, there's birthday dedications to make; To Aunty Ruby and Jireh Yew, Happy Happy Birthday!

Growing up years have pretty much been spent in Aunty Ruby's home of good food and love. And it's also partly thanks to this noble lady that I am who I am today; serving in the House of God. Her heart of cheerfulness, of faith and her great desire to bless others has pretty much been a model to me. She takes on the role of that missing chesspiece in my set and till this day, my respect goes out to her. Happy Birthday Aunty Ruby

Jireh Yew, the man of our region. Fun-loving, God-loving, sisters-loving, music-loving and also friends-loving. Need I say more to convince you that Jireh is worthy of the region's love? Happy Birthday brother!

And not fogetting, some well wishes; Get well soon Nicholas Sow and all the best for exams dear Celine, Felice and classmates.

Happy Valentine's Day (For Real!)

Hello there people, and Happy Lovey-Dovey:: ) Well, it's not just a day for lovebirds, but also a great day to study! Haha, you bet. Diligent Carmen went back to school to study. Along with some others; Kimberly, William and Marcus. So you see how singles can spend Valentine's too! And no don't get me wrong, I don't mean it's the best way to have Valentine's for unattached, it's just good for victims of exams:: D So cheers, study buddies, though we accomplished little. But I did have a jolly good time.

And on this day, specially set-apart for love to shout aloud, I too would like to shout a dedication to special birthday babies; Joy leong, Franklin and Grandpa.

Joy Leong: Happy Birthday dear girl! See, you're so special that even your birthday falls on such a special day! I pray that God will keep you safe and warm, and close to His heart always! Keep running with passion yes? Take care and all the best in everything you do. I love you, Joy!

Franklin: Hey dude, I hope this has been a great birthday year with the youths! With QiGeBaGe, its hard to have a 'normal' birthday, cause they never fail to make it special, right? I see a great heart in you, ever ready to do God's will. Keep the fire burning alright, God bless!

Grandpa: Happy Birthday, Grandfather! (Now, translate this in cantonese) I wished I could spend more time with you and Grandma, to pay back for those years I haven't been in contact with you and the family. But in any case, I wish you best of health and longevity! May God bless you much.

I just had a good meal at Grandfather's celebration. Another joyous get-together with the family. Although I have to say that I'm not exactly close to my maternal relatives, the awkwardness has substantially gone away after the many recent events. And for that, I thank God.

Oh, did I mention? Net is at my place tomorrow and I am getting very, very excited! I'm losing count of the number of people i told, and the number of times I told a single person. Oh well! Haha. I just pray that God will be so real in my place, that Dad can see and feel His presence. Pray with me won't you, that me and my entire household will serve the Lord, and so will yours (if they have yet to). This is one of my (Chinese) New Year Resolution!

*This part was unsaved when my internet crashed! And seriously, I forgot what else was I saying. Haha!

Happy Lovey-Dovey Day (Eve)

After a long day's work plus a great deal of effort, I finally gave my blog a new dress and a new look. Phew, it sure wasn't 'peanuts'. But nontheless, I'm done and I'm happy!

And guess what, my opportunity cost of doing up this blog is my Econs Revision. I can almost see you balloning with anger. Yes, Carmen isn't mugging like she should be mugging. But right after this, I promise, no more distractions. Just PPF, Oligopoly and a lot of Perfect Competition.

Oh and by the way, all the best to fellow poly students, like (poor) me. Haha, mug hard pretty faces, show the world what you've got! Just before you realise it, it'l be over and say hellooo to the long sem' break. (Oh, shh, you non-schooling bums! Haha.)

Alright off I go this moment (to get my almond cookies first then,) to study. And dear God, I pray for discipline!

(Chinese) New Year Resolution

'Gong Xi Fai Cai' and 'Nian Nian You Yu' to you! Haha.

Chang Huiling; the one I love, I treasure

I totally missed making my new year resolutions, but I hope it is okay to make my Chinese New Year Resolution. I mean, afterall I'm Chinese; at least 75% and above. Hah.

I'm escaping the notes again, here tapping on my keyboard once more. An excuse to bring you more updates, but we all know the truth, don't we? :: D

Anyway, its CNY day1 and I'm loving it! And no, not just for the 'ang pows' of course, but also seeing all my relatives! When we finally met again, an annual thing, then i begin to realise it's indeed been sometime:: ) But, aww, this feeling of kinship and coming together is sure niceeee.

A pity if forgot to take a shot today, mann! Oh well, I just pray that God will keep all my aunties and uncles and cousins healthy and good. More importantly, that they will come to know of His saving grace. I want to see my entire household praise Him:: ) Amen!

Alright, Carmen is getting the lazy bones. So, I'm going to leave you here and grab some donuts, yummy! Miss me till you see me again:: ) Once again, Happy Ang Pow, oh i mean, Happy New Year to you. Haha!

So blessed, I can't contain it. So much, I've got to give it away

i am suppose to be studying

hello there:: ) i have decided to come here and update, least this blog gets motionless once more! LOL, but aside that, there is a reason why im updating so sooon. hmm, exams are in 2 weeks time and im suppose to study. now, you see the link? :: DD

anyway, i do have the motivation to study this time round. and that is definitely a good sign! i just need a good day to start. haha, and in case you didnt realise, CNY is just three days away. now, why do i find my good start! LOL. but i promise i will i will study, soooooooooooon.

i soo love shopping now since its chinese new year, good excuse for new clothes, new bag, new shoes. yummy! i totally didnt catch the festive mood and so i had to 'chiong' shopping the last two days, and maybe tomorrow too:: ) study, carmen study (and shop!)

there has been a great deal of learning as i review the steps that i have taken. for who i am today, i thank those around me, i thank God. my dear Father in Heaven has watched me since birth till this very day, very minute and second. and i tell myself, to always always be thankful for the every breadth that i take, and the people dancing in my script.

ee, carmen is feeling lovey dovey again! haha. but in any case, i just want to say that i can never never imagine what life would be without region dee, or schoolmates, or church mates! or or net, or aiyahh, everybody! and because of you, you, you and you, lifes goooood:: DD

dont say im naggy and always saying the same stuff in my post okay, because you never know what the next moment holds for you. and God may lovee me soo much, He wants me home with Him:: DD for now, more shopping!

its quite a not-much-update post since i just blogged to put my studying on hold. haha! soo, thats it people, im leaving you hanging in mid air, just so you will come back sooon. lovee, and goodnight!

amazing grace, how sweet the sound. that saved a wretch like me.