The journey of JasTer...

Ah boy!

2011-02-19T01:16:00.003+08:00

Hihi ah boy the clock is ticking... Papa is leaving for Thailand in a week's time. If you really come out on 28 Feb - 1 Mar I can't be with u and Mummy u noe? THe wait is tedious.. since 7 feb when D.wong said u were full term and above 2.5kg Daddy could not sleep.. Everynight just on standby mode to expect being woken up in the middle of the night to send Mummy.. but every nite it just didnt happen.. "all pregnancies r different" so they say, n i wouldnt know if urs was increasing contraction signs type or water bag burst fast n furious type.. Papa dun wanna induce u out cos it may hurt u and Mummy.. Let's wait another night again.. Good nite! =P

It's CNY this week!

2011-01-31T01:33:00.001+08:00

Oh my gosh... It's CNY this week can't believe it! So happy! Can't wait to see boiboi soon... =D

Lost & Found.

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

Haa... was clearing our joint yahoo mail account and see what I have found.

Tuesday, 1 December 2009, 4.55pm
Felt the urge to blog about this but since I have got “no” internet access, I had to send an email to our joint email account so that I can post the up the entry later in the night.

I was chatting with Hui and suddenly realize something that is so unreal but yet it is the fact of life. I am married to Sylvester Swee! Yes!!! I am. In case you are wondering why is it so big deal that I am married to the man I love, well that is because it has always been a mystery to us on how our paths actually crossed each other.

It all started in the IRC chatroom, “ Singapore ”. For the active IRC users, you will probably know that there are many, many, many citizens chatting in that single chatroom. It was Sylvester who clicked on me and we started chatting and only after a few tele-conversations, we decided that we should meet up.

Alright! The point that I am trying to drive at is that we are both married and we started off as strangers, i.e. there wasn’t even any links/bonds between the 2 of us!

Amazing!!!

These are trying times..

2010-12-07T22:16:00.003+08:00

Today Daddy fell really sick. I believe maybe 0.5litre of water flowed from my nose tap. Sneezed till I was weak, till my stomach hurt real bad, till I got disorientated and depressed. Slumped into a cab and head straight for the doctors. I pray that God puts the sufferings on me so He can take them away from you. It hurt me to know Mummy needs more blood tests. Pray you grow properly and be always blessed by Jesus. Daddy feels terrible, sneeze till voice hoarse. Mummy is tired and asleep. Daddy love.

Feeding time.

2010-11-29T09:02:00.000+08:00

Mommy guess Jovan's night feeding time will be at 2am and 4am! =) Haa... This morning Jovan woke Mommy up at 4am with all the kicks and rolling. Good boy baby Jovan. Or perhaps you were woken up by Daddy's snoring?

Dear heavenly Lord,
Please bless baby Jovan and let him not to have any infection as what mommy is experiencing now. I pray in Jesus greatest name, AMEN!

Mandarin Oriental.

2010-11-24T21:49:00.015+08:00

The smell of the air. The greetings of the warm and professional staff. The golden carvings on the walls. These are the things that remind me of the night we got married.... It was that fateful 14 Nov 2009, after 2 years of intense savings and preparations, a night where Obama was just across the street for Apec, a night where friends and family gathered to celebrate the most important day in our lives... And on 14 Nov 2010, we decided to go back to Oriental for our anniversary! And my it was awesome!

We started off with a lovely breakfast at KFC Novena Square, followed by a stroll at Marina Square to see baby cots.. Had a great time at Starbucks reading mags and tried their Christmas flavoured Cherry Coffee nice! Then basically after we checked in we were just movie mania all the way!! The sound system was awesome and the TV was huge!

HBO and Star Movies were all we needed.. When first switched on was Valkyrie (something about Adolf Hitler and an uprising), then Housebreakers (starring Danny Devito), after which was Troy (Brat Pitt), then Bring the House Down (Queen Latifa and Steve Martin comedy), followed by (Disney's The Kid starring Bruce Willis), in the evening was A Dangerous Man (starring Steven Seagal)... I love movies but we can't go cinema and noisy places so I thoroughly enjoyed myself and I believe dar dar too!

Then dinner was Kushinbo sashimi and cold crabs just above my office at Suntec Tower One! It was a great date I had with darling cos it's so nice to have her near my office where I could show her all the shops and things I passed by during work...

Breakfast next day was buffet at Meltz Cafe in Oriental (complimentary) cool!! Had 4 servings of waffles, pancakes with cold butter, croissants, omelettes and other yummy stuffs! The sashimi and pratas were superb too! It was so awesome that I didn't want to go home! And to top it all off, the nice service staff at the counter actually remembered us and allowed a slightly later check out! Excellent service, thumbs up!

Thank you Oriental, we will be back! Thank you Sandy, Prasad, Charlie and the rest of the crew! ^_^

Thank you dearie.

2010-09-22T13:08:00.003+08:00

Fell sick since yesterday afternoon, with fever hot and cold. Took 2 panadols at 4pm and another 2 at 8pm but didn't seem to help. When I left office at 830pm felt my head spinning and by the time I reached BB MRT, I vomitted. Darling's car came along to rescue me. I didn't want to pass the flu germs to her so I slumped into the back seat. She drove numerous places just to find a clinic for me and all the time I could not sit straight. Darling found a clinic for me! She went to buy waterchestnut drink, some bread and waited outside for me. Then when we reached home I felt pukey throughout and could not eat rice, so she cooked instant noodles on 2 plates, and put another side plate with some food. She also brought more water so I could take my medicine. When I had finished, she cleared up everything while I concussed in the room. Although I woke up in the middle of the night and had runs 3 times and puked all the dinner out, but I was still thankful I ate.

I love her very much and she is really the best wifey in the whole world...

I am on mc today and have been sleeping ever since morning without eating anything. Knowing this, she is taking afternoon 1/2 leave to be home to look after me. Wow. Thank you laopo and praise God for an angel like you.... =)

The best wifey in the world!

2010-09-18T16:14:00.002+08:00

Each day is a torture under the tyrannical rule of JFK. Drank with couple of friends till 6am and slept till 3pm. Half my Saturday is gone thanks to him. Woke up with a splitting headache so bad that panadol, tea, ginger, ice and a bath could not help. Was totally unable to go downstairs to buy food or even cook noodles.

Then super lao po came to my rescue! Rushed over from her mum's place, bought porridge, chin chow and took good care of me... I love you dar dar!!!

Feeling very fortunate.

Things we will have in our Home.

2010-09-17T10:14:00.007+08:00

Orange juice. Milk. Butter. Kaya. Maggi mee. Canned food. Sauces. Pepper. Bread. Biscuits. Cable TV to watch soccer. Sound system to enjoy music. Widescreen TV. Magazines. Towels. Toothpaste. Soaps. Shampoo. Detergent. First aid box. HBO. Wifi. Comfortable mattresses for parent sleepovers. Instant coffee for daddy. Newspaper delivery. Umbrellas. Clock. Tissue boxes. Toilet paper. Printer for emergencies. Cups. Plates. Bowls. Chopsticks. Spoons. Forks. Knives. Washing machine. Clothes pegs. Toilet brush. Sponges. Facial wash. Rags. Plastic bags. Rubber bands. Pails. Buckets. Broom. Mop. Glass dining table. Shoe rack. Poker cards. Board games. Beer. Beer bottle opener. Wine opener. Telephone. Cutting board. Nail clipper. Ear digger. Sewing kit. Scissors. Pens. Paper. Extra pillows. Thirsty hippo. Big nice sofa set. Coffee table. Coffee maker. Metallic fridge. Fridge magnets. Waste bins. Hangers. Pots. Pans. Wok. Ginger. Garlic. Chilli. Bible. Altar. That's all for now.

Boy I can't wait! =)

Your mercy is overflowing...

2010-09-17T09:58:00.004+08:00

There were a few times in life when I felt the mercies of God overflowing and one such time just happened this week! Good news just kept pouring in till your heart overflows with joy and there is nothing else you can do but praise Him with a grateful heart for His deliverance and providence...

Shan't elaborate but these numbers tell it all. 5. 24. 331. 635. 34.

Hahahahaha.... ^_^

FINALLY!!!

2010-09-14T11:19:00.000+08:00

A roof over our head. A place where we can call love nest. A home!

WE CAN FINALLY GET A BTO FLAT!!!

Thank you God for answering our prayers!

Probability Tree.

2010-08-24T23:09:00.004+08:00

What if a tree has numerous branches that leads no where? What if a dozen options leads to no real solution? Such are the problems we all must face. As someone put it: Between 2 bad decisions, which is worse? Certainly neither is good, but which is worse?

I now understand why people choose to back away amicably. It is not because they are cowards. Rather it is wisdom that tells them it is futile to fight head on. Three friends I have confided in have told me the same answer. That there are only 2 options with no middle ground.

Fellow comrades in arms, I feel your pain. But there are and always will be evil/sadistic/psychopatic/weird/freaky/distorted people in this world. And there is nothing we can do about it but to fight on or walk away.

Try telling the HR, union, boss, boss' boss. Who will bother to help you? No one. Why? Because we all serve our paymasters. Because we have families and mouths to feed. Because we will never jeopardise our rice bowls for the sake of justice.

The Lord is my shepherd, there is nothing I shall want.

King of kings. Lord of lords.

2010-08-22T23:10:00.003+08:00

Blessed Jesus, you bring us into situations for a reason. Blessed be God most high. You are worthy to be praised. We are mere lowly creatures not deserving of your attention. Yet you revealed the mysteries of your kingdom to mere children. Hallelujah! One step is enough for me. Every day I entrust unto you not knowing what would become of it. It might be peaceful and easy. Or it could be extremely difficult. Come what may, let it be Your will. Thy will be done on earth just like it is in heaven. Give us our daily bread, forgive us our sins. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one. Amen.

Huh.

2010-08-22T22:47:00.011+08:00

Rollercoaster. Through the week I saw and heard many amazing things; weird, bizarre, confounding, puzzling and even disgusting things. And so my heart went up and down countless times as to the decision I was supposed to make.

Let's face it. How can there be no system whatsoever, no source of reference, no guidance, no direction? Is it a mama shop? Or a pasar malam? Why does the "i" sit on top? Because the "i" is older and born earlier, through no merit whatsoever.

Ok I shan't speak further nor elaborate what I am referring to and leave it to your own interpretation. Bizarre. Patience, perserverance and the most important 3rd "P".

Four.

2010-08-14T11:16:00.000+08:00

Congratulations! You have four (4) tries. ^_^

Give us today our daily bread.

2010-08-14T11:01:00.002+08:00

Father, everyday we face trials and tribulations. A good yesterday will not guarantee a good today or tomorrow. Everyday we will wake up to new challenges. That is why we need you so often, sometimes many times a day, to strengthen and nourish us in the face of the evil one.

I saw a Ferrari and MacLaren yesterday. Very sleek and nice. =)

We are imperfect creatures.

Had the most simple yet amazing experience yesterday! Went out with childhood friend and neighbour yesterday as I was on leave in a transition between the old and new jobs and did really cool stuff on a super low budget!

We first went suntanning at YCK swimming complex and jumped in for a dip when it was pouring cats and dogs. Then went on to Yishun for Jap food. Then walked around looking for a cheap dessert store. Then we took 857 to Jalan Besar Food Centre and ate Kway Chap. After which went to Mustafa Centre, then Sim Lim Square. Ate peppermint ice-cream (never had in 15 years!) then took a bus back to AMK. Went for a back and foot massage costing $35 only and had a great nap! Then went to the library for some novels, magazines and coffee. Ended off with a romantic dinner with laopo at Jack's Place! I love it!

Going RT later. Chiong ah! I'm 73kgs now OooO...

Someone just farted. Pooh!

Our proposal featured on Stomp

2010-08-14T10:53:00.001+08:00

www.stomp.com.sg - Unusual Wedding proposals - Part II

=)

It is complete.

2010-08-10T21:28:00.003+08:00

Papa has embarked on a new journey. One possibly with huge obstacles and challenges. But none too great for the Lord most high.

"I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry... He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord." - Psalms 40:1 and 3.

Truly all who have experienced His deliverance know what I'm talking about. I have many stories to share. Examples of this. The P2 recess incident. The morning assembly. The late night art assignment. The P6 asthma attack. The 'O' level papers. The unbearable stomach ache. The sickness my father had. The OCS backstabbing incident. And the list goes on...

"My soul glorifies the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my saviour. His mercy is from age to age, on those who fear Him..."

Hallelujah... With a God of your power and omnipotence on our side, whom shall I fear? ^_^

Happy National Day!

2010-08-09T23:19:00.007+08:00

It's the country's 45th birthday. Yahoo! The earliest I could recall was 25th year when I was in P2. I stayed over at Tua Yee's old house and she helped me with my "zao(4) ju(4)". Gosh time flies. I'm 27 now.

Through the passing of time, we learn life is not as rosy as we would like it to be. When I sat at New York @ AMK Hub with darling this afternoon for lunch I quipped,"Look at the innocence and joy in children's eyes...", as I watched children walk by. It's that hope of Christmas morn opening the presents or the sheer genuinity about them that I find fascinating.. We all grow out of it some day and are brought to the full realization of what living really means (what some may call maturity).. For me, it is the sparkle in their eyes that shows me life is still worth living..

Perhaps that is why people continually give the best to their children and fade away into history through the ages. There is a knowledge that we will never be here long enough or that we have to leave someday, yet we desire to give the best of ourselves, probably out of love, purpose, gratitude, or plain conformance to societal norms (whatever it may be).

As I lay here pondering about the struggles I will face tomorrow at work, I see the cover of the "Daily Bread" booklet. It reads,"Be still, and know that I am God. - Psalm 46:10". I am overwhelmed to say a prayer in the midst of such incompetence and futility.

"Dear Lord, you brought us here on earth. Show us what we were individually called to do. Give us today our daily bread. Bless our loved ones always. Bring us safely into heaven. And may the little good we do be good enough. Amen."

What is a life of purpose? Riches? Fame? Status? None of the above.

For me it's simple. To earn a decent wage and provide for my family, bring my parents out on weekends, teach and love my children. Teach them to love and bring joy to their grandparents. Be a good husband, son, father, friend. Sounds easy but can be remarkably hard. Yet this gives fulfilment.

If I were to struggle for status and power for the next 40 years and make retirement my aim, when I eventually achieve it, I will realise it is nothing more than a false sense of security and I have been missing on the realli important things in life. Yet if I spend every week as if it were my last, then I would live life without regrets.

That's why the say the past is history, the future is unknown but what we have now is a gift. That is why it is called the present. We are where we are meant to be, right here right now. Let's use this present wisely, gratefully..

Ok let's plan where shall I bring my parents this weekend. And my parents-in-law. Oh and of course my dear wife. Let me share a few more smiles and words of encouragement to colleagues. Work hard to earn money for nothing goes wasted. Every cent is earned and saved for our children, our parents. Every lash of the whip and the hard knocks of society is to repay the debt of gratitude we owe our parents.. Rightfully and thankfully so.. It is a blessing to be given a chance to give than to receive.. My parents have struggled too long, too hard..

The coming week may be filled with uncertainty and new challenges. I foresee what they might be. Is it the aim of every young man to throw himself in harm's way? For only by being aggressive in our career will we be considered hardworking and upward-looking young men right? Surely it is in our youth that we strive and not when we are old.. But the Bible teaches about minding our own business and living life peacefully.. So what then is God's view on aggression?

Let's take a leaf out of Jesus' book. Jesus wasn't aggressive the way the world meant it. Yet He certainly wasn't laid back too. In fact He was by far the most focused and dedicated to His ministry ever, to the point of death. So we too should strive to lead such lives. In whatever occupation we do, we should do our best, as doing it for the Lord and not for men.. We should be praying at all times, not losing heart.. Put on the armour of Jesus Christ: Faith, truth, love.. Yet people should be won over with a conviction in the mind and heart of Jesus, not by strength or power..

Should we handle the world with the ways of the world and be taught of as street-smart? Or should we embrace the evils of the world with the innocence of a child and be thought a fool?

2010-08-04T11:16:00.000+08:00

You are my strength when I am weak
You are the treasure that I seek
You are my all in all.

When I fall down you pick me up
When I am dry you fill my cup
You are my all in all.

Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
Jesus, Lamb of God
Worth is Your name!

Senja Gateway

2010-08-01T19:47:00.003+08:00

How are Daddy and Mummy going to come our place if we do get it?
Let's do an analysis of the location...

1) YCK to Bukit Panjang: 16 stops (change at CCK, walk another 1km)
Alternative 2: 14 stops (change at Bishan, then at Botanic Gardens, walk another 1 km)
Alternative 3: Take bus 852 to Bukit Timah, change to 170 for another 14 bus stops
Not very convenient.

2) How about Bukit Panjang to Raffles?
Alternative 1: 18 stops (change at CCK, den at JEast)
Alternative 2: 15 stops (change at Newton ready in 2015)
Not convenient too.

Schools in the vicinity? Neighbourhood schools e.g. Greenridge Primary, West Spring Secondary.
Buses along Woodlands Road? Only 160 and 170.

Seems like even with Downtown Line 2, the location is not good.
Possibility of upside in valuation: Not promising
Possibility of parents coming to our house: Unlikely

Verdict: Poor

Ouch.

2010-07-28T22:23:00.003+08:00

Papa roach just came back from interval training. 2 laps of 900m. Followed by speed training. 4 times of 30/60. Then interval again. 2 laps of 800m. These PTIs are insane. Ouch.

But I feel good... =)

19 JULY 2010

2010-07-19T23:48:00.002+08:00

Last few minutes of 19 July 2010... This shall mark 6 years and 1 month since we first met at Causeway Point! That fateful day which has since brought so much joy and happiness into my life... Times flies and I can still remember myself writing the date "2 Jan 1989" at the top right hand corner of my primary school exercise book... And now is what... 2010?? And I thought Terminator said 2003 we would have robots flying everywhere? Hmm... Time will fly by and before I know it I will be typing in this blog someday when my hair has all turned grey and it will be 19 June 2050 or 14 November 2050 for that matter.... Wow... What would I do then? How would I feel then? Perhaps feeling resigned to the outcome of the life I have lived and ready to meet my maker? Or perhaps not yet ready? Or perhaps I have already met my maker? Hahaa... I am thinking too much....

I am turning 30 soon... Oh well.. Life is too short for regrets... =P

Comfort

2010-07-19T23:23:00.002+08:00

The word "comfort" appeared 70 times in the Bible based on my recent search. 70? Isn't that the holy number? A concidence? Hmm... Highly doubt so. Our God is a God of comfort... He knows we need consolation and we can be sure he will always be there for us.. Let's examine a few passages that have this word...

"He will comfort us in the labour and painful toil of our hands caused by the ground the Lord has cursed." - Genesis 5:29
"As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you..." - Isaiah 66:13
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." - 2 Corinthians 1: 3-4

So it is clear that God loves us and wants to comfort us... "For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows." 2 Corinthians 1:5. Therefore God is our pillar of strength, our rock of salvation, our healer, protector, shield, solace, shelter... He is our comfort and like a father-figure to us all... If we have hurts, pains, problems, just turn to him in prayer and thankgiving, in supplication and faith... And he will speak to us in his time, pouring out the abundance of graces to see us through...

This is the living God who saves... Amen.

Fever...

2010-07-19T23:21:00.000+08:00

My poor dar dar is having a mild fever... Hope she recovers soon! =)

ONE

2010-07-19T23:20:00.001+08:00

One Zinger burger. One mashed potato. One person.

Favourite Passages

2010-07-16T23:54:00.002+08:00

"Ask and it will be given."
"Who is my neighbour?" - The Good Samaritan who shows compassion for the injured traveler
"Mary and Martha" - Listening to God is more important than getting busy with chores
"The Ten Bridesmaids" - Be prepared for we know not when the hour is coming
"The Prodigal son" - God is love and mercy
"The cursing of the fig tree" - Faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains
"Harvest is rich but labourers are few" - Many are called but few are chosen
"Forgive 70 x 7 times" - Forgiveness knows no bounds
"The guests to the banquet" - Gentiles were invited when Jews initially rejected the offer
"I am the vine and you the branches" - With you in me and me in you, you will bear much fruit
"Some seeds fell on rocky ground" - Pursue Christ to see progress in your salvation
"Turn the stones to bread" - You shall not put the Lord your God to the test
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, will and love your neighbour as yourself"
"Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God"
"You have no power had it not been given you from above"
"Do not worry about tomorrow, each day has enough troubles of its own"
"Even the hairs on your head have been counted"
"How hard it is for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven" - Poverty breeds dependence
"The first will be the last, and the last the first" - Be a servant to all
"Go, your faith has healed you."

These passages may not be completely accurate in quotation as I derived them based on memory as stories I would read when I was little. These give an insight into the mind and heart of God and what kind of God he really is. In summary, it seems his directions are pretty similar to the ones derived in the previous post, which are: to love and trust him in faith, one small step at a time.

Eternal Life

2010-07-16T22:53:00.003+08:00

"But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 6:22-23

My reflection: First sentence tells me the old law brought about judgement and defined sin, which merely cast people away from God as they were sinful by nature in their desires. However the new law gives hope. If we serve God like slaves i.e. not literal but with fortitude and determination, we shall see fruits of our labour which leads to eternal bliss in heaven. The second sentence tells me we will still be judged for our works but Jesus Christ has now opened the door of heaven, making possible an option once not possible. It is also written in John 3:16 that anyone who believes in Jesus will not die but inherit eternal life. Hence all believers should go to purgatory instead of hell, where after purification we will inherit eternal life. So if all will eventually go to heaven then why are some striving more than others? Where do they find that purpose and drive to pursue holiness? In layman terms, we have been "cut some slack". Or have we? Where is the target? What is the budget? Who is holy enough to guarantee a place in heaven? How good is good and how bad is bad? Why does it seem like a paradox?

"One of you will say to me: "Then why does God still blame us? For who resists his will?" But who are you, O man, to talk back to God? Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, "Why did you make me like this?" - Romans 9:20

My reflection: God knows it seems like a paradox to man. But his ways are above our ways, his thoughts above our thoughts. Just as the brain of ant can never comprehend what we humans think, so God's mind is of a different realm.

"The Gentiles who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; but Israel, who pursued a law of righteousness, has not attained it. Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone" - Romans 9:30-32

My reflection: Oh. Now I see why they say God is love. It is really a good news. A free gift. Because of this: "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved." - Romans 10:9-10.

Therein lies the answer! Why rely on our futile human strength to attain the impossible? What God needs isn't all this. He wants us to trust in him as children in faith and dependence, to believe in his saving power and ability to right the wrong. Above all, he wants us to respect his son, acknowledge the free gift of eternal life which came through no effort of ours, and establish a love relationship with him and one another. This sounds so much easier! No wonder Jesus said his yoke was light and easy to bear. And in another passage: My grace is sufficient for thee. And yet another: I will be with you till the end of time. So the spirit will be poured out upon our souls and the love will overflow from within.

Therefore: Seek him daily in trust, follow his will in all things. One day is enough for me. It is not for us to know the times or seasons. One day at a time. If tired, just hug him in your prayers and the depths of your soul. For he said: "You cannot serve 2 masters". It is so true. If you love him from the bottom of your heart, how will you have any room left for sin? You will begin to hate sin. It will come naturally. Then it will not even be a struggle eventually and just a piece of cake as things come into perspective.

"I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do." - Romans 7:15

My reflection: God knows our weaknesses.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" - Romans 8:28

My reflection: God will make a way, when there seems to be no way.

Summary: Good night Jesus, Abba Father and Holy Spirit. I feel so uplifted to receive this message of your abounding love and support. I will entrust all my worries and cares into your heavenly hands and let you lift me up on eagle's wings. For in faith I know you will transform me and make every day, minute and second a useful one. For it is defined as useful only if you think it is for your knowledge is all-encompassing. Yet another passage comes to mind: "Anyone who does not become like a little child cannot enter the kingdom of heaven". Let us continue to reflect on your parables and teachings which have been revealed to us. They have profound lessons and have taken root in our minds. Let them grow in us. Amen.

Friday.

2010-07-16T22:21:00.004+08:00

TGIF? Friday only means it will be Saturday tomorrow, with all its duties and obligations. And Saturday means it is Sunday the following day, which only means the next day is back to the rat race. So what is the big hoo-haa about Friday? Hmm. Life goes on. Would all the pleasures in the world make us happy enough? Surely not. Or would all the sadness in the world be bad enough to kill us? No as well. What then is life? Hmm. It is neither to achieve maximum happiness nor to minimise and avoid sadness. There must be more.

Why does the simplicity of childhood which we so foolishly took for granted just slip us by? Why does the ice-cream in the eyes of a kid bring so much joy and satisfaction? Have we gained something only to lose something else?

The kid always wants to grow up fast. He struggles in school for 15 years. The young adult graduates and wishes to have earning power but once he enters the working world he realises life ain't a bed of roses. He strives for the next 30 years and eventually retires. By then he has a reasonable sum but feels aimless if he doesn't carry on making himself useful. So he carries on working. And he is too old and feeble to fully enjoy holidays too despite all the money he has accumulated. So he finds joy in his grandchildren. But they can't be with him everyday as they have school commitments. They also need to be at their own homes with their parents who are bogged down by their struggles. And so life goes on.

What then is life? The rich have their problems. So do the poor. The healthy and sick alike. Male problems. Female problems. Old problems. Young problems.

Dear Lord, life has got to be a test. A cross. It can't be the be-all-end-all. It's much too shallow and superficial to offer anything really good. Perhaps it was never your intention for us to question the meaning of our futile existence. One step at a time. Iron one shirt for your kid. Pour one cup of hot milo for your wife. Help one blind man across the street. Forgive your superior one time. Smile. Perhaps God is keeping track after all. And all these little things could sum up to one big inheritence waiting for us in heaven.

Life is so contradictory. True love vs true justice. True faith vs true works. Science vs religion. If the law never made anyone perfect, then how does the new law of love transform us? Forgiveness brings about healing and conversion but will people take you for granted? After all, is there a hierarchy in heaven? And if it is given as a free gift as some protestants say, then what is the purpose of striving? But yet Catholics believe a single mortal sin with the full knowledge and deliberate intention to commit can send you to hell. What is too lenient? What is too strict? Who can draw the line? And how can we be holy? Perfect?

It's a Friday night. TGIF. Let me see what I can do with my time. Hmm. Haven't thought of it yet. Maybe I will think of it soon. Maybe.

We're back! Home sweet home!~

2010-06-24T09:05:00.016+08:00

Well it certainly wasn't Rome or Paris, neither was it expensive wine or exquisite food... Nevertheless it was more of "who" we spent our time with that truly mattered... And we certainly did have the most amazing experience ever!

For the BIG reveal as to where we really went? Answer: Studio M Hotel and Siloso Beach Resort! Here's a walkthrough of what we did during our 3D2N "honeystars"...

Day 1: Welcome to Studio M (Our house, so we call it hahaaa...)

After watching movies on HBO we took a cab down to Heeren and had some Waraku Pasta which Jasmine had been yearning for a long time!

Their eggs are really wobbly...

OK fast forward the details...... Zip!

We pretty much just enjoyed ourselves like crazy... (spending $300 on food alone!) which included: Waraku Pasta with salmon and pizza, Blue Mountain OREO cheesecake and Brazilian coffee, NTUC shopping to stock up our "house".. Hahaa... (bought 2 bags of chips, apple juice, cup noodles laksa flavour, preserved mangoes and some cashew nuts).. ordered 1/2 dozen of chicken wings from a pub at night... Next morning TCC pancakes and croissants for breakfast, room service duck meat linguine with cocktail and mango juice for lunch at the resort, Sakae dinner by the beach (Garlic rice, chicken set, skewed scallops, oysters, golden mushrooms), New Zealand Cookies & Cream cone... Another 1/2 dozen chicken wings and a beer in the evening (more room service), Hotel buffet the next morning (More scrambled eggs, croissants, cereals, sausages), Sushi Tei lunch (spicy miso noodles, Hotate, chicken karaage and seafood hotpot) followed by Haagen Daz waffles and a Latte... Man..... ^_^

Watched 5 HBO movies in total: X-Men Origins: Wolverine, Who framed Roger Rabbit, Wanted, Obssessed, Black Hawk Down... And just switched our engines to total "worry-free" mode... Hahahaaa...

OooOoo and we caught a squirrel amidst the trees while having breakfast at the resort (Check it out!):

Here are more pictures of the Siloso Beach Resort Rooftop Garden...

(Pic 1: Private penthouse shower, Pic 2: Recliners, Pic 3: Jacuzzi tub overlooking the ocean)

Siloso Beach Resort was not all that exciting and certainly not value-for-money so we will certainly have to think twice about going back there... But as for dear Studio M (our house and lovely apartment), we will be back for more!!! Well if $$$ permits... Hee... ^_^

Here are more pictures of Studio M:

And that's all folks! Back to the inescapable reality to our work desks! Here's Jaster signing off...

=)

2010-06-11T12:31:00.002+08:00

it's not easy...

Just a click away...

2010-06-05T21:08:00.002+08:00

We were in the midst of booking the Fullerton stay via credit card but didn't have the heart to click submit. Have we become more like parents, feeling the pinch of spending money unnecessarily? I really think so. Let's shelf the plan for now. ^_^

Jaster's Big Plans...

2010-05-30T20:36:00.003+08:00

We have a common goal... Onward Jaster!

We can't wait to have our own kids! Start asap! Charge!!!

Housing plans? Resale along Bukit Batok East Ave 2, Blks 230-250, >5 floor, corner unit...

We can make it! Gambate ne!

Signed and chopped. Jaster Inc.

Honeystars? Just a short getaway...

2010-05-29T14:54:00.010+08:00

We initially wanted 11D Europe (then volcanic ash came) -> Rome F&E (then reappeared) -> then Bali, HK, Macau, Bintan and various locations... Finally after much consideration we decided on 3D2N R&R right here in sunny Singapore! Relaxing at Gallery Hotel, The Fullerton, Restaurant Dining, Jumbo Seafood Crabs, Daily American Breakfast, Singing our hearts out at Partyworld, Movies, Wine & Dine and lots more! ^_^

Dear Europe, our pockets are ready and waiting for you.. 2011 here we come!!!

A long walk...

2010-05-17T10:20:00.001+08:00

... from Ang Mo Kio to Yishun Stadium! Over rated myself and I thought we could have accomplished the goal of walking till North Point! Haa.. And guess what? My mother-in-law actually walked fasted than me!!! Super woman!!!

=P Haa.. Must start on my exercise regime, hopefully soon!!!

Picking out the vegetables and ham

2010-04-10T15:06:00.003+08:00

That same Friday as the dog incident, on the way to work on the train around Buona Vista, I noticed a very strange thing.. A lady who looked to be of lower intellect (IQ) was sitting down on the reserved seat, with both her lunch boxes opened..

1 had fried rice with strange vegetables and ham, the other was 2 sandwiches. And there she was throughout the journey, picking out the vegetables and ham, and transferring them to the other box with the sandwiches!! The whole train smelled awful and people were giving her nasty stares.. The woman beside her pretended to be asleep to avoid looking (as all Singaporeans would).

So there she picked them out one-by-one, till they were all done, then she licked her spoon happily, smiled to herself and closed her lunch boxes. She alighted soon after.. I was wondering to myself, "What was the implication of all this? First the dog accident, then this?"

But a certain interpretation struck me (perhaps others may have other emotions invoked).. I was thinking, "We should be thankful for life. Everyday we go on the train, see straight-faced people looking bored and tired on their way to work. It looks so normal, mundane, ordinary, routine. But perhaps being NORMAL is something to be thankful for after all!!

Some people have rough days, really rough days... Others have rough days all their lives!! Normal days are good. They are blessings in themselves. The fact that I survived 2 years in a sales role without much scolding is a blessing. The fact that I have a job despite the crisis is a blessing. The fact that I'm alive is a BLESSING. And all this did not come easy...

There must be some divine intervention and protection that allows all this to happen... The normal people to go about their normal affairs safely.. The banker ensures companies do not collapse, the sweeper ensures the drains are not clogged, the shipping administrator indirectly ensures the forklift driver still has a job.

We are all serving our Lord, quietly and subtlely, in unassuming and hardly noticeable ways... But oh yes we are important!! =)

Poor doggy

2010-04-10T14:51:00.003+08:00

Jasmine and I had just left home at Hillview Crescent and were crossing the road to the bus stop on the other side... While on the road divider, we noticed a very young golden retriever who was really big in size, looking lost across the street. He was definitely domesticated as he did not have the street-smartness of stray dogs.

Initially we looked in awe as he tried to cross the busy road. First he looked around... then suddenly he decided to try... he stepped out onto the road and dashed to the middle road divider!!! the cars missed him by a few inches. We were stunned and he was right beside us.

Then came the second dash, this time he was not as lucky.. just 3 feet away from Jasmine, he made the dash and a car hit him directly on his side with a loud 'Bang!'. He squealed in pain, shock and fear and tumbled a few feet away as a result of the impact!!!

Somehow he mustered his strength, took off and sprinted in the direction of Hillview Crescent. Within seconds he was out of sight...

We immediately called her parents to search, while notifying SPCA to send people down before we headed off to work.

When we came back that Friday evening immediately after work, we begin a frantic search asking around on any passersby or witnesses... The security guard at the Petals condo saw the incident but did not know what happened after that.. The guards at Meral Lodge confirmed it was not from their premises... SPCA called to say it could not be found...

That poor baby dog... Has it found its owner? Or has it tucked itself away under some rubbish dump to die from its internal injuries? Getting hit by a car is no joke.

I think I will suffer trauma for at least a few weeks... If only we can know that the dog is safe...

"Bang!" "Squeal...." Ouch.

Resume Writing

2010-04-10T14:34:00.002+08:00

Thank you darling!

You are always so good in everything and my pillar of support and motivation... My resume looks much better now with your help... Hope I can put it to good use for my next job application in future! What would I be without you?

Sorry about being moody early this morning cause I had a nightmare with you in it... It is not you that was bad but the character in the nightmare and I was acting weird... Oops I noti...

Just want to say you are very cute and I love you a lot... Especially the MMS you sent yesterday about the smiley face scribbles (so girl girl)... Time flies we have been married for almost 5 months! And together for almost 6 years! But it feels so honeymoon-y, like I just dated you at Causeway Point...

And speaking on honeymoon, boy I can't wait! Switzerland, Paris, London, here we come!

Here is piglet signing off, wishing rabbit a happy day! =)

I walk by faith.

2010-04-08T12:43:00.001+08:00

I walk by faith, each step by faith
To live by faith, I put my trust in You.
I walk by faith, each step by faith
To live by faith, I put my trust in You.

Every step I take is a step of faith
No weapon formed against me shall prosper
And every prayer I make is a prayer of faith
And if my God is for me
Then who can be against me?

Walking the talk, and not just mouthing.

Philippians 4:6-7

2010-03-30T23:28:00.001+08:00

6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Did you ever talk to God above?

2010-03-29T09:18:00.001+08:00

Did you ever talk to God above
Tell him that you need a friend to love
Pray in Jesus's name believing that
God answers prayers
Have you told him all cares and woes
Every tiny little fear he knows
You can know He'll always hear and
He will answer prayer

You can whisper in a crowd to Him
You can cry when you're alone to Him
You don't have to pray out loud to Him
He knows your thoughts
On a lofty mountain peak He's there
In a meadow by a stream He's there
Anywhere on earth you go
He's been there from the start.

I offer my life.

2010-03-26T15:02:00.005+08:00

All that I am and all that I have
I lay them down before You, oh Lord
All my regrets, all my acclaim
The joy and the pain I'm making them Yours!

Lord I offer my life to Your
Everything I've been through, use it for your glory
Lord I offer my days to You
Lifting my praise to You
As a pleasing sacrifice Lord I offer You my life!

Things in the past, things yet unseen
Wishes and dreams that are yet to come true
All of my hopes, all of my plans
My heart and my hands are lifted to You!

Faith.

2010-03-25T10:13:00.002+08:00

Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

Proverbs 16:3
"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed."

Psalm 23
"The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want..... I will fear no evil for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.....Surely goodnes and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

Psalm 27:1
"The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear?"

Pig.

2010-03-19T15:02:00.001+08:00

Once you sleep you can't wake up. GREAT. UMPH UMPH UMPH! I am fuming mad because I am feeling very hot and also hungry. I want and need food!!!

Upgrade!

2010-03-17T09:18:00.005+08:00

=) People upgrade their houses, cars, skills, studies... so what else can I do a upgrade on? Heee... DIAMOND lah... This is my proposal ring! =P 2 years back.. hubby brought me to see a few jewellery shops and when I saw that cutting (Brilliant Rose!) of the diamond, I fell in love with it! Didn't want him to burn a big hole in his pocket, I decided to get the smaller carat (0.22) but with a relatively better color (E) and clarity (vs1 i think..) Hubby had got the after-buying-regret because he said size (uh hum..hahaa..) matters a lot to a guy! So for the past few months, he had been pestering me that we should actually do an upgrade on my small diamond (seriously, I don't find it small on my slender finger lor!)!!!

Happened to be shopping at Bishan J8 and decided to pop by SooKee to see if they had any ongoing promotions. Since it was my birthday month, I was entitled an additional 10% discount and the ring for the diamond will be FOC!!! UhHHOoo... that was quite a good deal since we still had a budget in mind. Bester actually asked to see a 0.60 carat and Ben (sales manager) brought out a 0.57! Oh my gawd!!! It's big lah... Haa... Then we were "arguing" whether to settle for a better color and clarity and compromise on the size. Since hubby was the one who wanted to do the upgrade, I let him made the decision and so now I have traded in the original ring with a G color (will aim for a better color for the next upgrade - Bester's reaction - GULPED), 0.5 carat and clarity VS2 (YES! this must also upgrade for the next round! - Bester's reaction - GULPED GULPED!!!)... I'm contented (as always!) and happy... But it's not that diamond... It's the love that hubby has for me that made me always smiling... =P

Carinne asked during her ROM, "what's the occasion?" Haa... 2 years up le mah... in order to retain the full trade in value must do the upgrade now lor...

... the original ...

... original on my hand ...

... the upgraded ...

... upgraded in a box ...

Happy Family.

2010-03-15T08:42:00.002+08:00

Syl's Mommy's Family... =) I'm beginning to look like Sylvester! GAWD.. hahaaa...

Faith.

2010-03-10T10:53:00.003+08:00

Jack Neo's extra marital affairs had made it to the headlines of many prints for the past few days.

Do I trust my hubby then? =P Well.. I DO! haa..

but kinda affected by what he "said" yesterday. It's still resounding in my ears and mind.

But.. =P Taking it positively! POSITIVE MIND is good..

Happy Couples!

2010-02-23T08:10:00.003+08:00

Mon, Feb 22, 2010
Diva

10 habits of happy couples
Are you looking for ways to improve your relationship with your spouse? Here are a few healthy habits of happy couples, according to the Times of India.

#1 Go to bed at the same time.
Remember the early days of your relationship when you couldn’t wait to get into bed with each other to make love? Happy couples resist the temptation to go to bed at different times. They go to bed at the same time, even if one wakes up later to do things while their partner sleeps.

#2 Cultivate common interests.
After the passion simmers, it is common to realise that you have few interests in common. Try to home in on those common interests and do things together and enjoy each other's company at the same time. Don’t underestimate the importance of couple activities, however few they are. If common interests are absent, happy couples take time to develop them. But be sure to cultivate interests of your own; this will make you more interesting to your mate and prevent you from appearing too dependent.

#3 Walk hand in hand or side by side.
Rather than one partner lagging or dragging behind the other, happy couples walk comfortably hand in hand or side by side. They know it’s more important to be with their partner than to see the sights along the way.

#4 Make trust and forgiveness a default mode.
Whenever there is a misunderstanding or when two cannot agree on an issue, do you bear grudges and build up ammunition against each other? Refrain from doing that as it only makes solving problems difficult.
If a disagreement or an argument cannot be resolved, happy couples default to trusting and forgiving and reset the relationship from there, instead of keeping count of faults.

#5 Focus more on what your partner does right than what he or she does wrong.
If you look for things your partner does wrong, you can always find something. If you look for what he or she does right, you can always find something, too. It all depends on what you want to look out for and focus on. Happy couples accentuate the positive and affirm that in each other.

#6 Hug each other as soon as you see each other after work.
Our skin has a memory of “good touch” (loved), “bad touch” (abused) and “no touch” (neglected). Couples who say hello with a hug keep their skin bathed in the “good touch” can inoculate your spirit against anonymity in the world. One is reassured of love and belonging.

#7 Say “I love you” and “Have a good day” every morning.
This is a great way to buy some patience and tolerance as each partner sets out each day to battle traffic jams, long lines and other annoyances.

#8 Say “Good night” every night, regardless of how you feel.
This tells your partner that, regardless of how upset you are with him or her, you still want to be in the relationship. It says that what you and your partner have is bigger than any single upsetting incident.

#9 Do a “weather” check during the day.
Call your partner at home or at work to see how his or her day is going. This is a great way to adjust expectations so that you’re more in sync when you connect after work. For instance, if your partner is having a lousy day, it might be unreasonable to expect him or her to be enthusiastic about something good that happened to you.

#10 Be proud to be seen with your partner.
Happy couples are pleased to be seen together and are often in some kind of affectionate contact - hand on hand or hand on shoulder or back. They are not showing off but rather just saying that they belong with each other. The worst thing to do is to forget to introduce your partner when you bump into a friend or colleague when you're out about town. This sends the wrong signal to your partner that he is not your significant other and you are embarrassed to show him or her off to others.

Happy couples have different habits than unhappy couples.
A habit is a discrete behaviour that you do automatically and that takes little effort to maintain. All it takes is 21 days of daily repetition of a new behaviour so that it becomes a habit. So select one of the behaviours in the list above to work on proactively for 21 days to cultivate a habit that will make you happier as a couple.

And if you fall off the wagon, don’t despair, just apologise to your partner, ask their forgiveness and recommit yourself to getting back in the habit.

Reservist.

2010-02-22T08:44:00.004+08:00

Bester has to go reservist for 2 weeks and he just got his new haircut! AwWwww... my handsome prince! =P

Edited at 11.18am.
=P I called him a punk because he looks like one. Think my baby is quite used to driving now. He came to fetch me yesterday from my house bus stop. Saw him "zooming" past the opposite direction. I was then waiting eagerly but didn't see him coming. Was panicky a little when he did not appear after 2 minutes later and thought he might have met with an accident at the place where he did a u-turn. Finally, papa roach appeared, remain "unscathed".

Asked him later in the night why he took so long to do the u-turn. Guess what!?

"I went to the round-about! Never did a u-turn ah. OH NO! There was u-turn ah!?!?" Broke into laughter.

He just did the u-turn from my place when I popped that question.

Most people are happy with their HDB flats.

2010-02-19T09:16:00.001+08:00

An article i read in the papers today. =)

It's now 4.43 couple vying for one flat at Treegrove (Woodlands). God bless us please!

Edited at 1.59pm
4.45 couple now.

农历新年!

2010-02-17T10:06:00.003+08:00

恭贺大家在虎年里会有大丰收而且会发到不清不楚! 万事如意! 身体健康!

It was an awesome experience for Mrs Swee as she joined officially in the Swee's Lunar New Year gathering. But I must say that it was quite tiring as usually I will be at my own home waiting for people to come visit us and we do not have much visiting to do. =P But but, it was definitely loads of fun that we all had! Oh, both Bester and I did not have much luck. =( Never win money! Haa..

Some photos taken...

OoooOOoo...

EeeeeEeee....

The gambling begins...

The 4 girls getting bored... so we tried on different shoes on each foot.

Revealing our faces. Look at my fat arm! MY GOSH!

My first bday present.

2010-02-09T23:44:00.000+08:00

Birkenstocks from my dearest hubby! Simply love it to bits.

2010-02-09T08:03:00.000+08:00

As though this is a snap shot of a video. I like the "advertisment" feel. Haa..

早安您好!

2010-02-04T08:23:00.001+08:00

4.30am.
5.35am.
6.00am.

Exhausted. Dear hubby called me a superwoman! Haa..

79 days.

2010-02-01T13:59:00.003+08:00

That is the number of days that I have been married. Time passes really fast! During our last gathering with my buddies, I was told that I got married only last year. Haa. I thought I was married for almost a year already! =P Sigh. Seems like ages since our wedding. Am I loving it?

Haa. I'm used to calling Sylvester's parents "Daddy" and "Mommy" and Bester doesn't seem to have any problem calling my parents the same too. Haa... Did I blog about that I cried during the first week after I got married? I think that was because I did not cry on our big day so the tears was overflowing from the tear duct! Haa. But I'm used to it now.

For now, I am looking forward to both my and his brother's big day to come too! But for my didi, I don't think it will be that fast since he is still studying. =P But I certainly hope it will be soon! Haa..

The next phase of our lives? Plan "B"? Haa... It will be Plan "C" for now! That is to establish both our careers!!! Gambatte!

Date.

2010-01-25T08:18:00.002+08:00

Both of us were at Bishan J8, last Friday for a "pa-toh-ing" session! =) Had a meal at Crystal Jade as we wanted to give ourselves a good treat. Haa... I had this craving for the noodles that my daddy once "ta-bao" for us from Crystal Jade...

I tried my very best to guess which might turn out to be the dish that I wanted but I was ultimately wrong!!! How can 炒面be wet one? GOSH~!!! Next time should just ask the waitress directly! We ordered another dish that has pig stomach, celery and chicken... We were fully STUFFED! Haaa.

Nevertheless, wanna thank my papa roach for bringing me out and giving me a wonderful dinner treat!

Bester said, "We should have more of such dates in future!"

Nodding in agreement!

Hehe...

2010-01-21T13:54:00.000+08:00

http://www.stomp.com.sg/lovein/lovestory10/lovestorys4_51.html

Take a look! =P

Scary!

2010-01-14T15:34:00.001+08:00

It's now about 11 couples fighting for a 4 room unit at Limpang area!

Dream.

2010-01-13T09:57:00.000+08:00

Bester dreamt of "our baby boy". GOSH. What was he thinking in the day? Haa...

Life after wedding - Random!

2010-01-08T11:43:00.008+08:00

Looking radiant! =P vain pot huh?

Looking great!

Vain vain! But cute!? haaa... Xmas in office!

Xmas supper!

Little boy whom we'll babysit.

His favourite, eggs with bread!

New Year 2010 - 1st picture taken!

Waiting for Peranakan food to be served!

Me with Russell.

My darling babe, Lucky! Eh... She kept licking herself so got to put the e-collar! Cute huh!?

Scary!!!

2010-01-07T08:32:00.003+08:00

BTO flats at Choa Chu Kang are overly subscribed! The ratio is alarming! But I think that is a good thing for Bester and I! At least it sends a signal to the "gar-ver-ment" that there is a constant demand for new flats... Heheee...

Build more flats around the new MRT line, pretty please?!!!!

"What men want most from their wives.."

2010-01-05T08:30:00.001+08:00

Stop nagging...

Tue, Jan 05, 2010
Diva

Most men wished that their wives would stop nagging as naggy wives reminded them of their mothers.

According to Shin Min evening daily, a study on online parenting magazine, sg.theasianparent.com, was carried out among 100 married men who were each asked to list what they wanted most from their wives.

On the issue of nagging, many men hoped that their wives were simply able to specify what was required of them, give them a deadline and they would get the job done dutifully. The incessant nagging does not work as they would automatically tune out once the badgering starts.

Next on the list, men wanted their wives to be more appreciative of their actions. Instead of harping on what they didn't achieve, women can focus on what they've sacrificed.

In addition, men wanted their wives to stop micromanaging their relationship with the children. If the wives keep interrupting and have the final say in every decision from which movie to watch to whether their child is allowed to eat ice-cream, the man of the household will feel he lack the rights to parenting his own child.

Here is the top 10 list of what men want of their wives:
1 - Stop nagging
2 - Appreciating their contributions
3 - Don't be a Nazi
4 - Stop guilt-tripping them
5 - Life to be less intense, more relaxed
6 - Give allowance for mistakes
7 - Lower their standard in terms of household chores
8 - Respect our personal sex life
9 - Acknowledge their presence - they deserve a say in any major decision-making
10 - Don't neglect them because of the kids

Bester, does that speak of your heart felt feelings?

The Marriage Creed

2009-12-25T08:32:00.001+08:00

- Comfort each other
- Listen to each other
- Respect each other's rights
- Be a Friend and Partner
- Caress as you would be caressed
- Allow the other to be an Individual
- Be open with each other
- Cherish your union
- Give each other approval
- Love one another

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T01:30:00.003+08:00

Seasons Greetings from Mr and Mrs Swee Sylvester!

Merry Christmas!

Thank you papa roach for getting me the weighing machine and the calculator!!! Simply adore them! Haa...

More sneak previews.

2009-12-21T09:54:00.004+08:00

A collage of the morning preparations!

Alone. Lots of emotions.

He's here! My brother opening the door for 姐夫.

A time which all the brothers enjoyed themselves!

Moving out!

With my precious Lucky Lee!

Solemnisation by Fr Stephen Yim.

Mr & Mrs Swee!

Dinner!

A night to remember for life!

Research time!

2009-12-18T08:53:00.002+08:00

If you are intending to get a house of your dreams, please do sit down with your the other half and research on it. It maybe achieveable to get a over $500k 4 room flat at a central area by just taking up the longest loan tenor and the maximum loan quantum that you can ever get! BUT do you know how much more interest you are paying just to get that house of your dreams?

Gosh!!! I have to WAKE up from my own dream first.

Our Bridal Suite

2009-12-08T07:27:00.004+08:00

My cousin was so fascinated that day and was snapping photos of everything! And thankfully so, cos one such picture was captured on my mum's phone, a picture that could be lost in ages if nothing was done to keep it... And so here it is, presenting....

OUR BRIDAL SUITE!

Considering we won't get our own home till another 5 years time, this is probably where all the manufacturing will take place... Haaa....

Bliss...

2009-12-07T18:41:00.012+08:00

Some time, not too long ago, we were both stretched to our breaking points preparing for our big day...

And I can still vividly recall that amidst the quarrels, the only thing I could do was dream about a day where I could once again "sit with dar dar at West Mall Coffee Bean whispering sweet nothings instead of discussing deadlines.." And though a simple wish, it seemed impossible back then...

Praise God for how things never fail to take a turn for the better! That dream which seemed so far away has become a reality today! And boy does "dating" my wife feel good!!!~

There will always be light at the end of a tunnel... Keep your eyes focused on your hope... For me, my hope is Christ... ^_^

Sneaks.

2009-12-07T00:33:00.007+08:00

Great job from CS Lim, AM.PM Photography. Some sneak previews for our enjoyment!

Mugging!

2009-12-04T19:53:00.003+08:00

My dar dar studying for her ACCA exams next Tuesday! Pretty right? Taken at AMK Library... Hee... ^_^

When it all ended...

2009-12-04T19:07:00.006+08:00

.... Yes! Sylvester's friends went up to our room after the dinner ended! Haa.. and they made us drink! Gosh. Bester was already so drunk when they left... As for me? I managed to finish watching the morning express highlights before going to the toilet to puke all the red wine out!!! Thank goodness I did if not I would had a hangover the very next day, just like Sylvester!

Bester was initially on the couch while we were watching the video. The very next moment, he was there lying on the floor! "Can I sleep on the floor tonight?" Bester asked!!! Haa...

Was shivering in coldness when I was in the bed! Fell asleep immediately! Wasted!!! We didn't get to try any food from our wedding dinner... sob sob!!!

After drinking got to do some kissing? One of my legs went up to Bester as his friends cheered!

Sylvester a goner! See what his brothers were doing to him!!! Haa...

You can see that I was quite drunk!!! =) Bester was acting... erm a bit weird.. haaa...

Credits: Photos from Kenny

The greatest of these is love.

2009-11-29T13:46:00.006+08:00

1 Corinthians 13:13

"And now only these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."

Beautiful verse isn't it? When we first started dating, Jasmine made a photo collage together with this verse. So when it was time to design our church wedding invitation card, we did not hesitate and chose this verse too!

Here's a picture taken by Kenny when we took our vows. Such a waste that we did not manage to take a picture with Father Yim that day! One decision that we never regretted making is to get Father Stephen Yim (Christ the King) to help us preside our church wedding

"Sylvester, why is Jasmine seated on your left and not on your right?" asked Father Yim.

The answer? Jasmine is closest to your heart. =)

LalaLalaalaaa...

2009-11-28T08:37:00.004+08:00

Updates:
Wedding Video will be ready in 4 months time.
Wedding Photos can be viewed in 1 to 2 months time.
This is what we call professionalism. =)

Following are the songs that were used during our wedding. We shall post up stanzas of the songs which both of us can fully relate to.

1) "When God Made You" - by Newsong
This is our 1st march in song. =)
Its always been a mystery to me,
How two hearts can come together,
And love can last forever.
But now that I have found you I believe,
That a miracle has come when God sends the perfect one.
So gone are all my questions about why,
And I've never been so sure of anything in my life

Oh I wonder what God was thinking,when he created you.
I wonder if He knew everything I would need,
Because he made all my dreams come true.
When God made you, He must have been thinking about me.

Ooo ooo,I promise that wherever you may go, wherever life may lead you,
With all my heart I'll be there too.
And from this moment on I want you to know,
I'll let nothing come between us, and I will love the ones you love.
So gone are all my questions about why

2) "半生熟" - by 品冠 & 戴佩妮
A playful and upbeat song for our 2nd march in.

你总是腼腆用幽默语言
填满我心里的小缺陷
灌溉满座花园让我住里面
对你我怎么可能心不在焉
你总是淘气用微笑双眼
照亮我生活每个阴天
编织整片屋檐让我躲里面
对你我没有抱怨

我为你泡的咖啡额外加了甜
赶走夜的晕眩
我为你准备一整年的喜悦
一步一个脚印让幸福实现

3) "Thank you Girl" - by Beatles
This song was chosen by Why Keen from Ichirofilms and was used in our childhood montage. Even till this moment, we really love the song to bits!!! Great song choice, Why Keen. Thank you so much!!!

Ah, ah, mm, you be good to me
you made me glad when I was blue
And eternally I'll always being love with you
And all I gotta do is thank you girl
Thank you girl

I could tell the world a thing or two about love
I know little girl only a fool
would doubt our love
And all I gotta do is thank you girl
Thank you girl

Thank you girl for lovin' me
the way that you do(way that you do)
That's the kind of love that is too good to be true
Al all I gotta do is thank you girl
Thank you girl

4) "God only knows" - by The Beach Boys
Yet another song choice by Why Keen who had also used this in our montage! Lovely song lyrics... Only God knows how all the things for our wedding have all been so perfect and beautiful... Thank you, Lord.

I may not always love you
But long as there are stars above you
You never need to doubt it
I'll make you so sure about it
God only knows what I'd be without you

If you should ever leave me
Though life would still go on, believe me
The world could show nothing to me
So what good would livin' do me
God only knows what I'd be without you

5) "Give me the simple life" - Jamie Cullum
Why Keen used this song in the morning express video. What can we say? I think it truly reflected what Sylvester was thinking during the gate crashing. haa...

I don't believe in frettin' and grievin';
Why mess around with strife?
I never was cut out to step and strut out.
Give me the simple life.

Some find it pleasant dining on pheasant.
Those things roll off my knife;
Just serve me tomatoes; and mashed potatoes;
Give me the simple life.

Bridge:

A cottage small is all I'm after,
Not one that's spacious and wide.
A house that rings with joy and laughter
And the ones you love inside.

Some like the high road, I like the low road,
Free from the care and strife.
Sounds corny and seedy, but yes, indeed-y;
Give me the simple life.

Our very own couple phones! Finally!

2009-11-25T22:39:00.001+08:00

Whee! Our very own couple phones! Same model, same colour, same everything!

Question: What do "S" and "J" stand for?
Answer: Nope not "Sylvester" and "Jasmine", but "Samsung Jet"! ^_^

Our Story.

2009-11-19T14:15:00.002+08:00

Credits: Why Keen from Ichirofilms...

A video that touches our hearts...

Day Express Highlights.

2009-11-19T14:13:00.006+08:00

Credits: Why Keen from Ichirofilms...

This was what happened...

谢谢各位！

2009-11-16T12:45:00.002+08:00

It was the near to perfect wedding!!! All these would not have happened without the help of XDs & JMs, both side parents and families... I hope all you have as much fun as Bester and I did!!!

Jasmine will like to thank the following people:

To all the jie meis: Thank you so much for the coming together and giving such great ideas for the gate crashing!!! Thank you to Wen, Jen, Ying & Carinne for the beautiful gift which has the BBSS friends’ blessings!!! Best gift I have ever received. Thank you for coming up with such a beautiful love contract! Simply love it. Really.

1) Wen: Thank you so much for being such a wonderful main coordinator for the wedding. Your leadership has ensured that all the things ran smoothly during the whole wedding. Thank you so so so much for standing in for being the emcee for the night. You did a GREAT job despite so many last minute changes to the script. Words cannot describe how grateful we are to you.

2) Jenny: Thank you so much for always being with me throughout the day, ensuring that I looked pretty! Thank you for being a “runner” for me, especially when I had actually forgotten my “can-can” (hahaa… which you kept referring as “pom pom”) in the morning!!! Thank you!

3) Carinne: Thank you so much for leading the gate crashing so well that the guys actually did enjoy themselves even when they were tekan-ed! Thank you so much for ushering the guests for the church service and also taking care of the sitting arrangement for the night.

4) Ying: Thank you so much for being so onz during the gate crashing and helping during and after the church service. Thank you!

5) Ting: Thank you for all for the chats during office hours (oops! Hush hush…) and brightening up my days when I was down!!! Thank you.

6) Juan: Thank you for all the hard work during the church and dinner reception!!! Thank you for ensuring that all the guests are well informed of where they are seated!

7) Hui: You looked stunning with the permed hair and wearing the tube dress!!! Bester commented that you look very lady like! Haa. Thank you so much for helping me to buy the wooden ruler too. Thank you.

8) Why Keen: Thank you so much for all the hard work put in for the montage and express highlights!!! Our guests were very touched. Some of them even cried! AWWwwwWww...

9) CS Lim: Thank you so much for guiding us through the whole day. Thank you for your jokes! It sure help us to loosen our nervousness. =P

10) Thank you to all the guests who have turned up for the church wedding or the wedding dinner!!! Thank you all for your generosity!!!

DOMO ARIGATO GOZAIMASHITAKA!

2009-11-16T12:38:00.000+08:00

Friendship knows no boundaries.

I have seen some REAL love on my wedding day last Saturday… Friends who CARED from the bottom of their hearts...

N I'm truly touched, so much that just thinking of you all makes me wanna cry! Boohoo... Sob sob...

There is one particular person though, that is so pivotal, without him the wedding would be a flop. He is none other than, KENNY LIM.

He followed us during the church rehearsals a week before the wedding, proactively asked questions, settled all the AV, music, photo montage, lightings single-handedly for the church as well as the banquet! No questions asked, a chop chop and very steady individual, he GETS things done.

Dropped by house the night before, helped me be an "audience" to practice my script (which I eventually scrapped cos Jasmine's was so good already and mine was too serious sounding and anticlimax)... Kenny regularly reported to me on updates, whispering into my ear "Swee, all set up, good to go." But the biggest thing he did, at 6pm the night before, he said, "Take out all your montages, make copies of them.. N take out your march in songs and test them. It was then we knew they were faulty. We rushed to Popular at AMK Hub, he bought DVDs, burned them, and he ensured they worked before going home. Thank you KENNY LIM!

Next up Weiguang, super man. Did an excellent job for the banquet as overall coordinator. Managed the reception table well like all good infantry officers do! Salute!~ Made sure all buses arrived on time. Arranged tables before I arrived to take photos. Helped me "block" a few boozes and weird concoctions. Thank you!

N Elvin, my cute and lovely friend. Thank you for borrowing your brother's car for my wedding (although I think your own White Lancer is very cool too!) Thank you for driving everyone up and down without any complains.. With you driving, our helpers were in safe hands.

Thank you Songhui! Thanks for taking care of the Angpows, for ushering the guests at church so professionally and proactively.. Thank you Zhirong, for the pushups! I couldn't see who the other person was who did pushups but thanks! Thank you Leslie my dear bro! Thank you for helping me to sing the song at her house when I forgot the lyrics! Friends forever!!

Thank you all for playing the games so sportingly and I loved the pole dance!

N last but not least, thank you John, my man. Became a last minute stand in emcee with only a few weeks notice. Bought a $300+ suit just for my wedding, brought me to toilet to wash up when I was drunk, entertained my guests and personally walked to every table to distribute carpark coupons... THANK YOU!!! See you at your housewarming next January!

Once again, GOD BLESS YOU ALL! - Ter ^_^ (Happily married)

PS: I can’t wait to meet up and give you all a treat! By the way, my greatest regret was engaging Kriston for the buffet! Why the sample during the roadshow and the actual day standard so different!!?? Kriston if u r reading this pls seriously think about it… The service staff were excellent though… But still….. &*$#$@^

Traffic Information - Road closures around Mandarin Oriental

2009-11-10T08:51:00.006+08:00

Dear all,

Thank you so much for taking your precious time to attend our wedding. Following are the details for each respective event on this coming Saturday.

Church Wedding

Wedding Banquet:

Due to the APEC 2009, there will be road closures around the hotel area. Please refer to the map below. Please also note that President Obama will be arriving Marina Square area between 6pm to 6.45pm. As such, there will be FULL road closures during the period of time. The hotel has kindly advised us that it will be better for guests who are driving in to reach either before 6pm or after 6.45pm. We may expect heavy traffic jams due to the road conditions.

Please also bring along the invitation card just in case. =)

For more information, log on to http://www.apec2009.sg/

Cocktails will be served at 7pm. Please try to be early if possible as we will like to start the dinner promptly at 7.30pm. Thank you all so much! =)

If you are going Mandarin Oriental by train, below is a rough map to show how you can walk from Marina Square. Please note that Suntec Convention Centre will be closed to public.

From City Hall MRT station, walk through Citilink and up to Marina Square.

Thank you all and we will see you this coming Saturday!

The nerves...

2009-11-04T19:41:00.003+08:00

The nerves are a dangerous thing, pushing people to the edge... Throughout our 5 and a half years of dating, we've weathered many a storm and in fact all imaginable (so I thought)... But the recent 1 year of wedding preparation process truly pushed us to a whole new level!

The recent few months especially, was a real roller-coaster ride! Through this gruelling experience, we had to work under constant tight deadlines, extreme conditions, as well as burnt numerous consecutive weekends and weekday nights... We got to learn so much more about each other, as co-workers, colleagues, project partners... We've learnt how each other deals with stress, reacts to certain situations, transforms ideas into action, manages time etc.

Now I finally understand why everytime an elder cousin, colleague or friend speaks of their wedding they will remark, "It's tiring." Haha... But this has made us grow STRONGER and CLOSER. No doubt about it. Something that no Marriage Preparation Course or Engaged Encounter can do...

A man and wife can't truly be ONE unless they've seen each other through the good and bad... That is why the vow goes, "in riches and poverty, sickness and health, all the days of our lives..."

With 10 days to go, most of the work has been done!

There is but one thing on my mind - go for a date with my wife when this is over. Somewhere special, faraway, or just somewhere simple. It doesn't matter. A movie, or maybe a stroll along the beach. I long to just go "pat tor" once again with my beloved wife. With no cares or worries. N the day will come again when my love and I will chill out at West Mall Coffee Bean again, whispering sweet nothings instead of deadlines, decisions, appointments and rehearsals.... Hee.....

Dreaming~... - Ter ^_^

Guo Da Li.

2009-11-02T09:25:00.001+08:00

We're making everything as simple as possible. Not much things for the exchange. I'll post up the pictures later okie? hehee..

18 days.

2009-10-27T16:09:00.001+08:00

I can't believe my eyes!!!

Our hearts are racing.

Prayers needed!

2009-10-15T09:00:00.000+08:00

Please pray for Bester. He's falling sick more often nowadays. Pray that he will recover soon and have good health!

Questions.

2009-10-07T11:06:00.002+08:00

How can 2 different personalities come together and be unified as one? By the grace of God. Is it lacking in here now?

Wedding Invitations.

2009-10-06T12:53:00.000+08:00

Yes!!! We'll be doing the invites soon. Uhoo HOoooOOoo...

UhhHHh HOoooOOO...

2009-10-02T14:39:00.001+08:00

I'm excited about the hen's night. =P

All the same.

2009-09-30T12:29:00.003+08:00

After looking at so many weddings photos and celebraties weddings, in my opinion, most chinese weddings are actually similar. So what makes a wedding special then? Well, the effort and time spent together by the couple to prepare their big day will then make the whole event meaningful.

=)

Dreaming... About lil' Jasters...

2009-09-28T20:10:00.009+08:00

I was on the train last Saturday with Jas, heading home after collecting our church invites from JB... It was a fun and enjoyable conversation as usual when we were suddenly on the topic of: "What we would name our kids in future?"

Two English names which were previously discussed briefly were suddenly given nice Mandarin equivalents in a moment of "brilliance"! (or so I thought...) Haha... These names eventually stuck deep in my head for the entire weekend...

Well, even if we are planning to have kids only like 1-2 years later, it's still cool and fun to dream about them... =)

Here it goes!

Us being Jasmine and Sylvester, our son's name will start with "J" and our daughter's with "S".

JOVAN SWEE 孙卓恩 - how about 茁 instead of 卓?
(adopted from 赵文卓 and 恩 cos Jasmine likes this word, rhymes with JOVAN)

SABRINA SWEE 孙芮雅
(adopted from 芮恩 and 优雅, rhymes with SABRINA)

Nice? Please post your views thanks... Hee... ^_^

So near yet so far.

2009-09-24T15:53:00.001+08:00

Both of our parents are very EXCITED about the upcoming wedding.

Dream too.

2009-09-21T19:28:00.001+08:00

Jasmine says she wans to perform 4-5 English and Mandarin songs on our wedding with me playing the guitar!

I hope it's just a dream.

Dream.

2009-09-21T19:23:00.003+08:00

Mommy woke me up at 7am today, not knowing that it is a public holiday. I went back to sleep from 7am to 12pm. During the 5 hours, I dreamt about the wedding.

Both Bester and I were rehearsing with Father Yim the sequence of the service. Halfway through the rehearsal, Father Yim was so "pek cheh" with me because I could not pronounce certain words. I ran away after shouting this, " I don't want to get married anymore!!!". Haa. Thereafter, I felt so scared of Father Yim and do not know what he is going to say about me when I meet him.

Alrite it is just a dream, so it's the opposite of reality right?

Mommy referred Bester as his son-in-law. =P

Church Invitation Cards.

2009-09-19T19:27:00.001+08:00

Down! Haa. We will be collecting the wedding cards next Saturday! Uhoo Hooo... Now to the printing of inserts and church booklet!!! Haa.

61 days.

2009-09-14T08:51:00.002+08:00

Counting, counting, counting... COUNTING DOWN!!!

My heart skipped a bit. Maybe it wasn't a bit. What!? We are like so near to our wedding already!?? Gosh. So many so many so many so many things that we've not yet settled. Both of us are feeling the stress and we have been erm... "discussing" over several issues over the past few weeks. It's adding on to the strain and tiredness from our work and personal life.

It's not easy to get married. It's even tougher to stay loving in a marriage.

But... but... but... IT IS DEFINITELY A JOYOUS AND BLISSFUL EVENT TO BE MARRIED! =P

One down.

2009-09-11T09:04:00.004+08:00

=) Oh yeah!!! Another task being completed, that is to finish filming for our photo montage. Hehe. We are very excited about seeing the video that Why Keen is helping us with!!! We had lots of fun during the process!!! Through our conversations, we had also learnt a few things from him! His story about him and his ah ma made us realised that we will have to treasure the time that we have with our love ones, and to live everyday as if it's our last.

Some sneak previews here! Thank you Why Keen.
http://www.ichirofilms.com/blog/

Makan.

2009-08-31T16:06:00.005+08:00

Seldom you will see me posting food entries simply because I don't really indulge myself in the world of calories. Hee. But I had a yummy-li-cious day last Saturday that I simply got to blog about! Ignore my ugly look cos I didn't bother to have shower nor to put on makeup before we set off to AMK Central!!! =P Keke...

First stop: Pizza Hut. I am sure many of you have seen the Pizza Hut advertisement on their pastas? We could not resist the temptation so decided to drop by to give it a try!

Summer Dazzle - Mango Spirit... Not too gas-y! Thumbs up!

Battered Fish in tomato cream sauce. Still think it might taste quite nice with linguine too!

Hawaiian Pizza. Yummy! Over baked till crust turned golden brown.

Next stop: Erm... A dessert shop located at Ang Mo Kio Hub!

Cute right? Bester fell in love with this. Guess what's in there???

We had tau hwee for our dessert to "close the chapter".

Yummy treats given by papa roach!!! Thank you!!! =P

...

2009-08-24T15:23:00.000+08:00

... there is no Sacrament of Holy Matrimony.

Pre-nuptial interview.

2009-08-16T00:03:00.001+08:00

Finally we had the interview with Father Stephen Yim. Haa. =) It was a very fruitful session as he shared with us a few tips on how to make the marriage a successful one and till death do we part.

1) Pray as a couple. We are unified as one in the eyes of God and so that is exactly what will keep us together as one too!

2) Do not speak and use words that are negative. It openes the option of taking the easier way out. Quoted from Father Yim, "Some people say that words are cheap, actually they are not. People not usually ask what's more difficult isn't it?" Words are powerful as they do have a lingering effect. Words affect people. So they aren't cheap!

Both of us signed on the "consent form" which is to be approved by the bishop so that Father Yim is able to solemnize our wedding.

I am not as afraid as before now before Father Yim. Haa. I used to think that he is stern, you know? Haa.

Time is drawing near...

2009-08-10T12:18:00.001+08:00

Near for us to be officially husband and wife. Sounds kinda scary!

2009-08-03T12:26:00.002+08:00

"Dar, when do you think we should start making babies? Some time during the mid of next year?"

We both laughed. =P

Jitters

2009-07-19T19:49:00.003+08:00

Jasmine said, " Wedding is supposed to be a happy thing!"

Bester replied, "Happy for those who are tekan-ing me!"

Right at this moment Bester is reading the bible, asking Jesus and God to help him. He found this verse.

Psalm 7:1-2
"O Lord, my God, I take refuge in you;
save and deliver me from all who puruse me,
or they will tear me like a lion
and rip me to pieces with no one to rescue me."

Both Bester and I are laughing away! But, Bester is still having jitters. He said to forgive him if he cannot make it through all the gates.

"Jesus, help me!"