Before choir practise today, we had to run some errands to prepare for our upcoming trip. So after a short afternoon nap, we headed to Marine Parade to do some shopping.
First, we went to Kim Choo at Katong to get those bottled nonya sauces for the family back in Ont. We have always love this particular brand of red curry sauce which we had bought in Malacca. It goes really well when fried with petai and prawn. We discovered later from Mrs Lim that it is also sold here at Kim Choo.
After purchasing the sauces, we headed for the MP Mall which we haven't been for some years. While searching for souvenirs, we found the HSW store which specialises in storage and organisation for the home. So glad to have discovered the store, which apparently has been around for 3 yrs already...
I love to organise my stuff in proper storage, especially since we are living in a small space. So within half an hour in the store, we bought a hanging jewellery organiser and a plastic laptop/breakfast tray. I'm so pleased with our purchase, especially the laptop tray which has side pocket for addition storage and cost us only $13+. We have been looking for one that we could use on our bed, as that's our regular computer workstation. We used to just make do with putting a pillow on our lap. Now, this laptop tray is lightweight, durable, waterproof, good height and I no longer feel the heat from the laptop on my thighs. :)
But of course, we have to be discerning to know if the things are value for money when shopping at HSW, as some of the items are a tad expensive. If we have not been short of time, I think we would have bought more stuff. It's kind of like a mini Ikea, with excellant storage ideas.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Saturday, April 19, 2008
It's increasingly difficult and annoying trying to access the FB site. It's overly popular and everyone's jamming the network. FB team better do something about it fast before I give up on it!
Old Schoolmates
Yesterday, I met up with some old schoolmates from my HR course. It's been a few years since we last met. Some looked different while others still look the same. I have put on that extra kilos over the years and could not recognise myself in the class photo. We were also trying to put a name to the face.
We have Eileen to thank for organising the gathering. Our topics were mostly about the lessons and the lecturers, and the impression they have made on us. And the one person no one could recall was the lecturer who taught us C&B. His class was so boring that we wondered if we even took that module.
Most of the class are not practising HR despite taking the course. But it did help us gain some useful knowledge to apply in the corporate world.
I was a little hesitant to meet up but am glad that I did. Unfortunately, we have lost touch with two of the members in my project group. I'm sure they are faring well in life.
Well, at least this has reunited some of us, and they are thinking of keeping in touch through facebook instead of our yahoo group. Thank God for technology!
We have Eileen to thank for organising the gathering. Our topics were mostly about the lessons and the lecturers, and the impression they have made on us. And the one person no one could recall was the lecturer who taught us C&B. His class was so boring that we wondered if we even took that module.
Most of the class are not practising HR despite taking the course. But it did help us gain some useful knowledge to apply in the corporate world.
I was a little hesitant to meet up but am glad that I did. Unfortunately, we have lost touch with two of the members in my project group. I'm sure they are faring well in life.
Well, at least this has reunited some of us, and they are thinking of keeping in touch through facebook instead of our yahoo group. Thank God for technology!
Friday, April 18, 2008
We Will Rock You
Last week, we attended the Queen musical 'We Will Rock You'. Queen is Sam's all time favourite band, after the Beatles.
Well, the storyline was rather disappointing, and the second half of the musical was better than the first. They sang many familiar hits like 'Crazy Little Thing Called Love', 'Another One Bites the Dust', 'Under Pressure', 'Radio Ga Ga' and so on. Of course, they left the most popular hits 'We will Rock you' and 'We are the Champions' for the finale.
Just while I was expressing my disappointment that they did not sing the hit song 'Bohemian Rhapsody', they cheekily flashed on the wide screen asking 'Do you want Bohemian Rhapsody?'. That led to thunderous roar for the encore performance. They performed that song really well to standing ovation. The 8-piece band, especially the drummer and leading electric guitarist rock!
Too bad they did not perform Sam's favorite song 'Love of my life'. He tried to serenade that song to me decades back, and even influenced his niece to learn that song.
Personally, I prefer the 'Mama Mia' musical as the storyline was more interesting. Also, I didn't like one part of the performance cause it was a little blasphemous. They had a guy in a kneeling position with his arms widespread, and someone placed a wreath made of colorful lighted bulbs on his head, resembling the crown of thorns. It was a brief scene with the lights deeming out, but it caught my attention.
Well, apart from the darkness of the lyrics and the influences behind Queen, the musical performance was great! They added some local flavor to the script injecting words like 'lahs', 'bugis street' and 'PCK'. Some parts of the show was funny though forgettable. I did enjoy the evening despite having a stiff neck and not being able to rock to the music and clapping like a moron...
On a separate note, I think this season's top 10 American Idol Michael Johns performed songs from Queen really well. Too bad he's out of the race.
Well, the storyline was rather disappointing, and the second half of the musical was better than the first. They sang many familiar hits like 'Crazy Little Thing Called Love', 'Another One Bites the Dust', 'Under Pressure', 'Radio Ga Ga' and so on. Of course, they left the most popular hits 'We will Rock you' and 'We are the Champions' for the finale.
Just while I was expressing my disappointment that they did not sing the hit song 'Bohemian Rhapsody', they cheekily flashed on the wide screen asking 'Do you want Bohemian Rhapsody?'. That led to thunderous roar for the encore performance. They performed that song really well to standing ovation. The 8-piece band, especially the drummer and leading electric guitarist rock!
Too bad they did not perform Sam's favorite song 'Love of my life'. He tried to serenade that song to me decades back, and even influenced his niece to learn that song.
Personally, I prefer the 'Mama Mia' musical as the storyline was more interesting. Also, I didn't like one part of the performance cause it was a little blasphemous. They had a guy in a kneeling position with his arms widespread, and someone placed a wreath made of colorful lighted bulbs on his head, resembling the crown of thorns. It was a brief scene with the lights deeming out, but it caught my attention.
Well, apart from the darkness of the lyrics and the influences behind Queen, the musical performance was great! They added some local flavor to the script injecting words like 'lahs', 'bugis street' and 'PCK'. Some parts of the show was funny though forgettable. I did enjoy the evening despite having a stiff neck and not being able to rock to the music and clapping like a moron...
On a separate note, I think this season's top 10 American Idol Michael Johns performed songs from Queen really well. Too bad he's out of the race.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
High Definition
On Tuesday, Sam very excitedly came home with a HD Set-top Box. He has exchanged the very old black box with this one at a promotional price of $48.15 plus free 3 months HD Plus for 1 yr contract. The recommended retail price for the box is $300+ without contract. He also had to purchase a special cable for the connection. And of course he subscribed to the additional sports channel.
After fixing it up, we channel surfed and realised that they have opened up all channels for our preview. There are more than 100 channels to surf. How exciting! Didn't know that there's more than 1 HBO channel. We also came across an interesting channel 70 called Discovery Home and Health, which offers content on health, beauty, pregnancy, parenting etc.
I like the additional feature we get with the new set-top box. There's on-screen TV Guide & Reminders and of course HD pictures. That's enough for us. Now we will be busy channel surfing for the next few days before they remove the preview channels. Anyway, we wouldn't have time to spend on the goggle box.
After fixing it up, we channel surfed and realised that they have opened up all channels for our preview. There are more than 100 channels to surf. How exciting! Didn't know that there's more than 1 HBO channel. We also came across an interesting channel 70 called Discovery Home and Health, which offers content on health, beauty, pregnancy, parenting etc.
I like the additional feature we get with the new set-top box. There's on-screen TV Guide & Reminders and of course HD pictures. That's enough for us. Now we will be busy channel surfing for the next few days before they remove the preview channels. Anyway, we wouldn't have time to spend on the goggle box.
Crowning
Well, one of the most stressful thing in life for me is to visit the dentist. But instead of suffering any worse consequences, I decided to pluck up some courage to do my half-yearly check, albeit after much procrastination.
So I braved the thunderstorm and went for my check up last Sat. I would have chickened out but I have already postponed the appointment 3 times. It makes me nervous just thinking about the visit.
Within minutes of sitting on the dental chair, Dr Lim quickly determined that I have a hairline crack across my two left upper molars. According to her, there are 2 reasons for the hairline crack. Firstly, I already have a big filling in those teeth. And secondly, there's not enough calcium going to the teeth. It's normal that ladies loose more calcium as we age.
Dr Lim advised that it may crack someday and I would have to pull them out! So the proposed solution is to do a crown which will cost me S$700 and 2 more visits. I conceded as I had a horrible experience pulling out a upper right premolar that cost me lots of money, pain, tears and blood!
I had to make sure that I time the visits well as I will be travelling end of the month, and the treatment needs to be completed before the travel. So I visited her today, and the first thing she had to do was the long needle injection to numb the gums. I was begging her not to give the injection, but she said "Don't worry, I will help you along". I think those words did some comfort, though it may sound like something she would routinely say. She then told me to take a deep breath and gently poked the gums with the needle. The deep breath helped! She did numerouos impressions of my teeth and I could feel substantial amount of bleeding during the drilling to remove the old fillings.
Fortunately it was over in less than half an hour. And I was told that there will be no injection the next time round. Yeah! And coward me survived another round of treatment! Thank God!
Now, I need to deal with the pain when the numbness goes off...
So I braved the thunderstorm and went for my check up last Sat. I would have chickened out but I have already postponed the appointment 3 times. It makes me nervous just thinking about the visit.
Within minutes of sitting on the dental chair, Dr Lim quickly determined that I have a hairline crack across my two left upper molars. According to her, there are 2 reasons for the hairline crack. Firstly, I already have a big filling in those teeth. And secondly, there's not enough calcium going to the teeth. It's normal that ladies loose more calcium as we age.
Dr Lim advised that it may crack someday and I would have to pull them out! So the proposed solution is to do a crown which will cost me S$700 and 2 more visits. I conceded as I had a horrible experience pulling out a upper right premolar that cost me lots of money, pain, tears and blood!
I had to make sure that I time the visits well as I will be travelling end of the month, and the treatment needs to be completed before the travel. So I visited her today, and the first thing she had to do was the long needle injection to numb the gums. I was begging her not to give the injection, but she said "Don't worry, I will help you along". I think those words did some comfort, though it may sound like something she would routinely say. She then told me to take a deep breath and gently poked the gums with the needle. The deep breath helped! She did numerouos impressions of my teeth and I could feel substantial amount of bleeding during the drilling to remove the old fillings.
Fortunately it was over in less than half an hour. And I was told that there will be no injection the next time round. Yeah! And coward me survived another round of treatment! Thank God!
Now, I need to deal with the pain when the numbness goes off...
Monday, April 14, 2008
The Greenhouse
I'm supposed to be on a diet, or at least watch my diet cause I've not done anything about the 5 kg I'm supposed to loose since ... 3 yrs back?
Well, one of my bro decided to buy parents dinner for his birthday and a job promotion. He invited us to tag along but go on dutch. And so we did...
It was my first time at the Greenhouse at the Ritz. And no, it's not in a Greenhouse. Boy, am I blown away by the sumptuous and wide buffet spread, a haven for seafood aficionados. There's fresh scallops, oysters, slipper lobster, shashimi, chilli crab, cold crab, drunken prawn, stir-fry prawn etc just to name a few. There goes my diet...
For dessert, there's creme brulee, nice and warm chocolate souffle that melts in your mouth, assorted chocolate pralines, chocolate mousse cake and variety of other fruits and dessert. I only managed to indulge in half of the buffet spread.
The dinner cost us a pretty penny, but it's all worth it. It's been a few days, and I'm still thinking about the food... so yes, it's that good.
After dropping the folks off after dinner, we decided to take a stroll along Clarke Quay. Well, it's just our feeble attempt to get the food down our digestive system instead of up to our brains ...
Well, one of my bro decided to buy parents dinner for his birthday and a job promotion. He invited us to tag along but go on dutch. And so we did...
It was my first time at the Greenhouse at the Ritz. And no, it's not in a Greenhouse. Boy, am I blown away by the sumptuous and wide buffet spread, a haven for seafood aficionados. There's fresh scallops, oysters, slipper lobster, shashimi, chilli crab, cold crab, drunken prawn, stir-fry prawn etc just to name a few. There goes my diet...
For dessert, there's creme brulee, nice and warm chocolate souffle that melts in your mouth, assorted chocolate pralines, chocolate mousse cake and variety of other fruits and dessert. I only managed to indulge in half of the buffet spread.
The dinner cost us a pretty penny, but it's all worth it. It's been a few days, and I'm still thinking about the food... so yes, it's that good.
After dropping the folks off after dinner, we decided to take a stroll along Clarke Quay. Well, it's just our feeble attempt to get the food down our digestive system instead of up to our brains ...
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
The Lull
Yes, I've not been blogging. There's just so many things to update but too lazy to blog. Now where shall I start?
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Living Things At Home
It's amazing how our Frangipani (or Plumeria) has bloomed a few weeks 
after we brought it home. Well, initially it withered and there was only one miserable leaf left on the stem... and still one leaf. So we decided to place the pot on top of our A/C condenser outside the kitchen, where it gets the most sun. Then one morning we noticed one partially bloomed yellow flower among the many flower buds. And when we got home that evening, we were delighted to find that more flowers have bloomed. Thanks to Aunt D who donated a stem from her Frangipani tree :) It's one of my fav plant.
While waiting for the Frangipani to be revived, we bought a Periwinkle from the nursery just to add some colors to our balcony. Turned out it is still doing well too!
Our Basil plant is also doing fine though a little bald and sad looking. But when we need herbs for cooking, we just reached out of the window to pluck some leaves :) It has survived our ill treatment after being left in a small pot and shady area for a long time.
We will next get a Citronella plant to repel mosquitoes as they seemed to be quite a nuisance lately.
after we brought it home. Well, initially it withered and there was only one miserable leaf left on the stem... and still one leaf. So we decided to place the pot on top of our A/C condenser outside the kitchen, where it gets the most sun. Then one morning we noticed one partially bloomed yellow flower among the many flower buds. And when we got home that evening, we were delighted to find that more flowers have bloomed. Thanks to Aunt D who donated a stem from her Frangipani tree :) It's one of my fav plant.
While waiting for the Frangipani to be revived, we bought a Periwinkle from the nursery just to add some colors to our balcony. Turned out it is still doing well too!Our Basil plant is also doing fine though a little bald and sad looking. But when we need herbs for cooking, we just reached out of the window to pluck some leaves :) It has survived our ill treatment after being left in a small pot and shady area for a long time.
We will next get a Citronella plant to repel mosquitoes as they seemed to be quite a nuisance lately.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Busy-ness
Been busy with work and other activities. And in a short span of 1 week, mum's eldest bro passed on, followed by dad's eldest bro. Time flies and we are getting old...
Been attending the keyboard class once a week. And while I thought I belong to the beginners group, the instructor recommended that I take the WDI class instead since I have classical training. Glad that they are flexible to allow us to transfer class just like that, otherwise I will still be learning basics in identifying the black keys (chopsticks and forks!).
And yes, it has been an amazing journey in just a few weeks as I finally figured out what are the '4' and '2' suspended notes, why use suspended notes, how to play the Maj7, Min7 and Dom7 chords on a keyboard, and the common type of chord progression. The instructor has been great, very encouraging and able to multi-task well! She taught us to play the keyboard and worship meaningfully at the same time. But I am still far from being able to play by ear, so that will take time to master...
Been watching Korean drama lately :p We didn't catch the Korean wave in the past couple of years, and thought we shouldn't even try in case we get hooked. But one day while channel surfing, I came across this show 'Coffee Prince' and we were instantly hooked. It's a comedy cum romance, makes you laugh and love at the same time. The characters in the show are loveable and I fell in love with the soundtrack too. The set (coffee house) where they film the show has become a tourist attraction. And check out the black Mini Cooper Convertible driven by the protagonist ... my kind of car! :)
Monday, January 7, 2008
Music and Me
Since young, I have always thought that I should serve in the Music ministry. But as the years went by, I realised that I am far from being like my gifted friends who are able to play the keyboard by ear, improvise and compose music so effortlessly. I do not have a dynamic controlled voice to sing like the others. So I almost gave up...
I was in the school choir from elementary school all the way to college. I was in the worship team in SG and TO, and also part of a small singing group with fellow MYFers - Just Us. Those were the days, eons ago :) Over the years, I have been with the church choir and now with V choir. I joined the V choir as I found meaning in the choir's vision, which is to raise funds and reach out through songs. And on top of that, I have been chosen to serve in the committee this year.
As there is a need for pianist at LS service, I still play the piano saved by the hymnal with music notes. And thanks to Ser who donated her lovely keyboard, I could practise the songs at home. So somehow I think God is still leading me to serve in the area of Music, and despite feeling so limited in many ways, He has opened doors.
So starting tomorrow, I will be attending a beginners keyboard class at Believer Music. Ser took the course some years back and recommended it, but I just never got around to it. I pray that I will be able to express myself better after taking the course, and hopefully play by ear some day!
I was in the school choir from elementary school all the way to college. I was in the worship team in SG and TO, and also part of a small singing group with fellow MYFers - Just Us. Those were the days, eons ago :) Over the years, I have been with the church choir and now with V choir. I joined the V choir as I found meaning in the choir's vision, which is to raise funds and reach out through songs. And on top of that, I have been chosen to serve in the committee this year.
As there is a need for pianist at LS service, I still play the piano saved by the hymnal with music notes. And thanks to Ser who donated her lovely keyboard, I could practise the songs at home. So somehow I think God is still leading me to serve in the area of Music, and despite feeling so limited in many ways, He has opened doors.
So starting tomorrow, I will be attending a beginners keyboard class at Believer Music. Ser took the course some years back and recommended it, but I just never got around to it. I pray that I will be able to express myself better after taking the course, and hopefully play by ear some day!
Sunday, January 6, 2008
The Choir Gathering
Last evening we attended LS choir gathering at Aunt D's house. It was a potluck dinner so we brought flan and sweet potato soup which we thought would be safe for everyone to consume :p
Uncle KH took the opportunity to discuss with the group the individual duties, expectations/ rules, events and activities for the year. Flo is now responsible for our new choir maroon robes which we have to don with dignity and uniformity (e.g. no long pants for ladies, and proper display of shirt collars for gents). Jas is in-charge of communication, V&J responsible for fellowship and TK for the songbooks. There are many activities lined up for the year. I'm pretty amazed and pleased that the choir has become more organised! Good job!
We were never really committed in this choir as the practises coincide with our Sun Sch time. So we sing on an ad hoc basis and are not that close to the members. The gathering was a good time for us to get to know some of them better.
Uncle KH took the opportunity to discuss with the group the individual duties, expectations/ rules, events and activities for the year. Flo is now responsible for our new choir maroon robes which we have to don with dignity and uniformity (e.g. no long pants for ladies, and proper display of shirt collars for gents). Jas is in-charge of communication, V&J responsible for fellowship and TK for the songbooks. There are many activities lined up for the year. I'm pretty amazed and pleased that the choir has become more organised! Good job!
There was so much food and we had a great time of fellowship. And having been to Aunt D's place numerous times, we never fail to be fascinated by their collection of antiques and the rustic charm of the house. But we always question in our mind how do they keep up with the cleaning!
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Ushering In the New Year
Had a relaxing 31st Dec, with great anticipation for the new year. Didn't set any new year resolution as I haven't been able to keep any :p But we certainly look forward to a more fruitful and fulfilling year, with greater joy and surrender to God's purpose for us in our lives.
Attended a count down 'party' at PL school hall organised by church. It's different from the usual watchnight service as this was an outreach event. We were entertained by the youths who put up interesting performance of songs and mime. Many youths attended the party and at times it felt like a rock concert with all that screaming and cheering! The pantomimist did an excellent job depicting a modern story of Christ's crucifixion for our sins. We had a roaring good time counting down with the help of free party packs. The best part of the event was a line dance item performed by our pastoral team. It's priceless cause I bet you won't catch our pastors shaking and dancing to country music again! :)
We are glad that we chose to spend our New Year's eve at PL instead of some exciting countdown party or watching spectacular fireworks with crowd of strangers. We have found meaning in spending such special time to reflect on God's love, and with fellow bro and sis-in-Christ. Blessed New Year!
Attended a count down 'party' at PL school hall organised by church. It's different from the usual watchnight service as this was an outreach event. We were entertained by the youths who put up interesting performance of songs and mime. Many youths attended the party and at times it felt like a rock concert with all that screaming and cheering! The pantomimist did an excellent job depicting a modern story of Christ's crucifixion for our sins. We had a roaring good time counting down with the help of free party packs. The best part of the event was a line dance item performed by our pastoral team. It's priceless cause I bet you won't catch our pastors shaking and dancing to country music again! :) We are glad that we chose to spend our New Year's eve at PL instead of some exciting countdown party or watching spectacular fireworks with crowd of strangers. We have found meaning in spending such special time to reflect on God's love, and with fellow bro and sis-in-Christ. Blessed New Year!
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
The Gifts
This is what I got for Christmas cum Anniversary present. Thank God for the gift and the giver. :) There'll be more artistic and beautiful photos to come...
We also bought for ourselves a thermal pot as it was on sale at OG. And Aunt D helped us to purchase it with her privilege membership, and even got it gift wrapped! Let's hope we will be having more healthy and soupy cooked food next year!Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Christmas Carolling
Christmas eve was spent carolling with LS folks and the family. I love carolling as it's a great time to get to know fellow carollers, and at the same time we bring cheer to the families we visit! I have attended carolling since school days, and still found much joy and pleasure in it.
The first house we visited was in the east with a young couple who are not regular church goers. They had lost their first child to cancer. There were guests at the gathering and I think they enjoyed our singing. The hosts had prepared a variety of delicious food. As I have declined the packet dinner prepared earlier for carollers, I was able to indulge in the feast at the houses we visited. :)
The 2nd house was the Ang's residence located in the east. As we walked into the apartment, we
could immediately smell the strong pine scent from the live Noble Fir Christmas tree. It really brought back memories of Christmas in Winter in Canada. We sang carols before John shared with the young children the true meaning of Christmas. He is such an eloquent speaker and I hope the kids understood the message. It was also great to see that his children had returned from overseas to spend Christmas with the family. Later on Dorcas left them to clear up while she joined us for the rest of the evening. She proudly proclaimed that she has never missed carolling in her life!
Next we visited GL's residence. Her aged mum was delighted to have us visit. She sang and clapped along as we sang carols. GL's neighbours were also invited to witness the fun and that brought smiles to their faces. GL's house is pretty big for a 4 room apt. I don't think my place can house so many of us without being confined to their spot.
The next visit was to Steven L's residence. The house is huge and beautiful located in the west. It was there where we congregated with the MS carollers according to plan. He had a number of visitors as well. His young and charming son who had performed on his flute during our carolling 2 years back is all grown up now. It seems he's become a renown musician with the Youth Orchestra and is jet-setting for his performance. How times flies, and we have aged!
The 5th house we visited was Joycelyn's residence in Bishan. She is holding up well years after her husband passed away. As usual, the owner of a large food manufacturer arranged a sumptuous spread of buffet for us. But I was too full by then to stuff myself further. And it was already approaching midnight!
We arrived at the final house slightly after midnight, and after the bus driver had much difficulty manoeuvring the big bus through the TKG estate. The Ang sisters' residence is sparkling white and clean. They have a lovely mini grand piano and beautiful wall paintings. They spoilt us with delicious homemade turkey porridge, samosa, curry puff, fruitcake, almond chocolate, biscotti etc. Despite being stuffed, I just had to eat because of the love and effort that went into preparing the food. Many of us had 2nd and 3rd helpings of the yummy turkey porridge. At our request, the elderly Mrs Ang also entertained us in music using her valued antique harmonica.
We had so much fun and arrived home past 2 am. Imagine still having to get up early the next day to present our choir anthem at the combine Christmas service ...
The first house we visited was in the east with a young couple who are not regular church goers. They had lost their first child to cancer. There were guests at the gathering and I think they enjoyed our singing. The hosts had prepared a variety of delicious food. As I have declined the packet dinner prepared earlier for carollers, I was able to indulge in the feast at the houses we visited. :)
The 2nd house was the Ang's residence located in the east. As we walked into the apartment, we
could immediately smell the strong pine scent from the live Noble Fir Christmas tree. It really brought back memories of Christmas in Winter in Canada. We sang carols before John shared with the young children the true meaning of Christmas. He is such an eloquent speaker and I hope the kids understood the message. It was also great to see that his children had returned from overseas to spend Christmas with the family. Later on Dorcas left them to clear up while she joined us for the rest of the evening. She proudly proclaimed that she has never missed carolling in her life!Next we visited GL's residence. Her aged mum was delighted to have us visit. She sang and clapped along as we sang carols. GL's neighbours were also invited to witness the fun and that brought smiles to their faces. GL's house is pretty big for a 4 room apt. I don't think my place can house so many of us without being confined to their spot.
The next visit was to Steven L's residence. The house is huge and beautiful located in the west. It was there where we congregated with the MS carollers according to plan. He had a number of visitors as well. His young and charming son who had performed on his flute during our carolling 2 years back is all grown up now. It seems he's become a renown musician with the Youth Orchestra and is jet-setting for his performance. How times flies, and we have aged!
The 5th house we visited was Joycelyn's residence in Bishan. She is holding up well years after her husband passed away. As usual, the owner of a large food manufacturer arranged a sumptuous spread of buffet for us. But I was too full by then to stuff myself further. And it was already approaching midnight!
We arrived at the final house slightly after midnight, and after the bus driver had much difficulty manoeuvring the big bus through the TKG estate. The Ang sisters' residence is sparkling white and clean. They have a lovely mini grand piano and beautiful wall paintings. They spoilt us with delicious homemade turkey porridge, samosa, curry puff, fruitcake, almond chocolate, biscotti etc. Despite being stuffed, I just had to eat because of the love and effort that went into preparing the food. Many of us had 2nd and 3rd helpings of the yummy turkey porridge. At our request, the elderly Mrs Ang also entertained us in music using her valued antique harmonica.We had so much fun and arrived home past 2 am. Imagine still having to get up early the next day to present our choir anthem at the combine Christmas service ...
Simple Gifts
Last Friday evening we attended a Christmas concert at the Esplanade Concert Hall. 'Simple Gifts' was performed by the SG Lyric Opera chorus as well as guests soprano, musicians, and combine choir with ACJC choir, YJ choir and Amadeus Chorus.
The first part of the concert was performed by the SLO Children's Choir accompanied by a harpist. For the 2nd half of the concert, the combine choir presented John Rutter's 'Magnificat' accompanied by the Philharmonic Orchestra. The orchestra was great and the conductor very charming! The concert ended with a sing along session of popular Christmas carols with Orchestra accompaniment.
It's been a long time since we attended any concert other than our own! The 150 strong choir were dressed in all black and their voices harmonised well. Sam thinks that their basses are weak and our choir is better! Can't comment cause we were seated on the right side of the concert hall, and probably can't hear the basses as well as they were facing the left side of the concert hall.
The first part of the concert was performed by the SLO Children's Choir accompanied by a harpist. For the 2nd half of the concert, the combine choir presented John Rutter's 'Magnificat' accompanied by the Philharmonic Orchestra. The orchestra was great and the conductor very charming! The concert ended with a sing along session of popular Christmas carols with Orchestra accompaniment.
It's been a long time since we attended any concert other than our own! The 150 strong choir were dressed in all black and their voices harmonised well. Sam thinks that their basses are weak and our choir is better! Can't comment cause we were seated on the right side of the concert hall, and probably can't hear the basses as well as they were facing the left side of the concert hall.
Anniversary Dinner
It's our 10th Wedding Anniversary on Dec 26! We celebrated it earlier on Sat night with a nice dinner at ilLido at the Sentosa Golf Club.
Sam made reservation in advance for the alfresco dining. The view from the restaurant was lovely as we could see the ships sailing in the reflection from the moon. The weather was cool as it had drizzled earlier in the day.
The restaurant serves fine italian cuisine. Sam ordered the festive set and we shared the entree consisting of blue swimmer crab salad with avocado, and homemade tagliolini pasta with gooseliver, pears and marsala wine sauce. He had chilean seabass with porcini mushroom for the main, and traditional italian pudding for dessert. I had fettuccine with crab and sicilian pachino tomatoes as the main course. We also had red wine for our drink, but can't remember what it's called!
There were a number of guests at the restaurant. Seems popular despite it being pricey. Anyway, we enjoyed the evening, a nice end to a quiet Sat.
Sam made reservation in advance for the alfresco dining. The view from the restaurant was lovely as we could see the ships sailing in the reflection from the moon. The weather was cool as it had drizzled earlier in the day.
The restaurant serves fine italian cuisine. Sam ordered the festive set and we shared the entree consisting of blue swimmer crab salad with avocado, and homemade tagliolini pasta with gooseliver, pears and marsala wine sauce. He had chilean seabass with porcini mushroom for the main, and traditional italian pudding for dessert. I had fettuccine with crab and sicilian pachino tomatoes as the main course. We also had red wine for our drink, but can't remember what it's called!
There were a number of guests at the restaurant. Seems popular despite it being pricey. Anyway, we enjoyed the evening, a nice end to a quiet Sat.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Choir Christmas Party
Last Sunday evening our choir had the AGM cum Christmas cum Durian Party. There were more than 60 people in attendance held at AH's enbloc-ed residence which has just been vacated.
The gathering began with the AGM where committee members were being nominated and elected to stand in office next year. Despite much protest, we were overruled and both of us will have to serve in different capacity. Looks like we will be busier next year.
After the AGM, we proceeded to have a sumptuous buffet spread. At the same time, we had AH and some friends who entertained us with their line dance moves. We then sang some Christmas Carols and Songs of Praise, before Mr Ong declared that it was AH and P's 20th Wedding Anniversary. There were roars of laughter when they were made to recount their courtship, and to pretend to walk down the aisle to the Wedding March and kiss each other.
Finally we had the much anticipated durian party courtesy of Rev K. Imagine everyone rolling up their sleeves, sat on the floor with newspaper strewn all over and digging into their favourite fruit. An amusing sight indeed.
Thus end our early Christmas celebration and fun-filled evening.
The gathering began with the AGM where committee members were being nominated and elected to stand in office next year. Despite much protest, we were overruled and both of us will have to serve in different capacity. Looks like we will be busier next year.
After the AGM, we proceeded to have a sumptuous buffet spread. At the same time, we had AH and some friends who entertained us with their line dance moves. We then sang some Christmas Carols and Songs of Praise, before Mr Ong declared that it was AH and P's 20th Wedding Anniversary. There were roars of laughter when they were made to recount their courtship, and to pretend to walk down the aisle to the Wedding March and kiss each other.
Finally we had the much anticipated durian party courtesy of Rev K. Imagine everyone rolling up their sleeves, sat on the floor with newspaper strewn all over and digging into their favourite fruit. An amusing sight indeed.
Thus end our early Christmas celebration and fun-filled evening.
Gathering with the Gals
Last Sat I had a high school class reunion with a small group of pals. It was one of those quarterly get togethers which are hard to come by due to everyone's busy schedule. But lately we have been making more effort to meet up.Pat hosted dinner this time. We were pleasantly surprised by the elegant table setting she has prepared. There were fresh flowers, tealight candles and wine glasses. For dinner, we had delicious home-made cream of mushroom soup, honey roast chicken wings, veg salad, mushrooms tossed with garlic and olive oil, beef with mozeralla cheese pasta, and Cabernet Sauvignon for our drink. Chris made and decorated the interesting soya dessert.
Well, the only thing missing was nice music accompaniment. We had to compromise with Pat's kids who were watching their disney channels in the living room. :)It was a lovely meal and memorable time together. We exchanged gifts, hugs and laughters. Too bad Joyce was unable to join us.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Christmas in the Tropics
I love Dec. I love spending it in SG. The holiday season, the nice cool and sometimes cold weather, the lovely Christmas decor all over town and malls, the Christmas outreach items put up by various churches along Orchard Rd, the gift exchange and surprises...oh yes, and the many public holidays ...
It's the best time for shopaholics needing some retail therapy. For some reason, I have been more decisive and early with the Christmas shopping this year. No last minute wrapping of gifts and sending of greeting cards. Surprisingly, less stress from the usual rush and am able to relish in the festivity.
Have been listening to some lovely Christmas songs being played on radio and in the malls, which is probably politically sensitive if played in other countries. Hence thank God for such pleasures.
I know how some would view all that festivity as being too commercialised and a distraction from the true meaning of Christmas. But I'm soaking in the joyous celebration with a light heart, not forgetting the real reason behind the season.
Looking forward to carolling on Christmas eve, spending it with friends and love ones, and feasting on the Christmas treats. :)
It's the best time for shopaholics needing some retail therapy. For some reason, I have been more decisive and early with the Christmas shopping this year. No last minute wrapping of gifts and sending of greeting cards. Surprisingly, less stress from the usual rush and am able to relish in the festivity.
Have been listening to some lovely Christmas songs being played on radio and in the malls, which is probably politically sensitive if played in other countries. Hence thank God for such pleasures.
I know how some would view all that festivity as being too commercialised and a distraction from the true meaning of Christmas. But I'm soaking in the joyous celebration with a light heart, not forgetting the real reason behind the season.
Looking forward to carolling on Christmas eve, spending it with friends and love ones, and feasting on the Christmas treats. :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)