Money No Enough 2 ~ The sequel ... 10 years later
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dec 6, 2010
Dec 5, 2010
Money No Enough
Money No Enough ~ The whole movie on YouTube ... Enjoy!!
An apt reminder for us as we are getting our keys to the new flat next week ... Renovation works, furniture, appliances, etc, etc ....the list goes on and on ...
Wa lao eh ... Really it is MONEY NO ENOUGH AHHH !!!!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
An apt reminder for us as we are getting our keys to the new flat next week ... Renovation works, furniture, appliances, etc, etc ....the list goes on and on ...
Wa lao eh ... Really it is MONEY NO ENOUGH AHHH !!!!!
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Nov 11, 2010
The Mayonnaise Jar
When things in your life seem, almost too much to handle,
When 24 Hours in a day is not enough,
Remember the mayonnaise jar and 2 cups of coffee.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, he wordlessly picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.
The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.
The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with a unanimous “yes.”
The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The students laughed.
“Now,” said the professor as the laughter subsided, “I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things - God, your family, your children, your health, your friends and your favorite passions - and if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full. The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house and your car. The sand is everything else - the small stuff.”
“If you put the sand into the jar first,” he continued, “there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff you will never have room for the things that are important to you.
“Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your spouse out to dinner. Play another 18. There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal. Take care of the golf balls first - the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand.”
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the coffee represented. The professor smiled. ”I’m glad you asked. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there’s always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend.”
When 24 Hours in a day is not enough,
Remember the mayonnaise jar and 2 cups of coffee.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, he wordlessly picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.
The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.
The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with a unanimous “yes.”
The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The students laughed.
“Now,” said the professor as the laughter subsided, “I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things - God, your family, your children, your health, your friends and your favorite passions - and if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full. The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house and your car. The sand is everything else - the small stuff.”
“If you put the sand into the jar first,” he continued, “there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff you will never have room for the things that are important to you.
“Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your spouse out to dinner. Play another 18. There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal. Take care of the golf balls first - the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand.”
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the coffee represented. The professor smiled. ”I’m glad you asked. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there’s always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend.”
Oct 31, 2010
Battle of the Wantan Mee
This weekend, we tried 2 types of Wantan (Wonton) Mee ... Same yet different
Which one do you like (looking at the photos)?
Each has their own distinct flavours ... We like both!! :D
One word of caution:
Don't tell the JB one you want chilli, if you never try before.... I can eat hot stuff, but i still need to tell them put less chilli... Otherwise, siao liao...
Which one do you like (looking at the photos)?
Each has their own distinct flavours ... We like both!! :D
Hong Chang in Ang Mo Kio Central Food Centre
Ho Seng Kee in JB (near Holiday Plaza)
One word of caution:
Don't tell the JB one you want chilli, if you never try before.... I can eat hot stuff, but i still need to tell them put less chilli... Otherwise, siao liao...
Oct 27, 2010
Dad's For Life
Being a first-time Dad, I was excited, overjoyed and at the same time, felt uncertain and afraid.
Alas, it was not as tough as I had imagined it would be. But it's not an easy journey either.
Our baby girl, Eunice, will be 14 months old in a couple of weeks ... Oh, how she has grown up ... from a little baby to a toddler just learning to take her first steps on her own and speaking more than just baby language ... The way she hugs me. When she wants me to "Pao Pao" her once I reached home ... Oh, hmmm ... The sweet memories make our efforts and sleepless nights all worthwhile.
To share with you, the first few months are the most difficult, especially for first-time parents ... Once you get used to the routine of feeding milk, burping after feeds, changing diapers, etc, it soon become second nature ... As the saying goes "Practice makes perfect", so practice more ... LOL
And pretty soon, we will be going through the same thing all over again ... for our second "xiao bu dian" (little one) :)
And this time, I will be waiting ... with more anticipation than apprehension.
Alas, it was not as tough as I had imagined it would be. But it's not an easy journey either.
Our baby girl, Eunice, will be 14 months old in a couple of weeks ... Oh, how she has grown up ... from a little baby to a toddler just learning to take her first steps on her own and speaking more than just baby language ... The way she hugs me. When she wants me to "Pao Pao" her once I reached home ... Oh, hmmm ... The sweet memories make our efforts and sleepless nights all worthwhile.
To share with you, the first few months are the most difficult, especially for first-time parents ... Once you get used to the routine of feeding milk, burping after feeds, changing diapers, etc, it soon become second nature ... As the saying goes "Practice makes perfect", so practice more ... LOL
And pretty soon, we will be going through the same thing all over again ... for our second "xiao bu dian" (little one) :)
And this time, I will be waiting ... with more anticipation than apprehension.
While we try to teach our children about life,
our children teach us what life is all about.
Oct 22, 2010
Do You Want to Be Right?
I heard a funny story about a cowboy who ambled into the local blacksmith shop and picked up a horseshoe, not realizing it had just come from the forge. He immediately dropped the hot shoe, shoved his seared hand into his pocket and tried to act nonchalant.
The blacksmith half smiled and asked, "Kinda hot, wasn't it?"
"Nope," replied the cowboy, "just don't take me long to look at a horseshoe, that's all."
I chuckle because I don't enjoy admitting mistakes, either. Nope, I'm fine.I meant to do that.
Furthermore, when I think I'm right, I usually want people to know it. And when I'm IN THE RIGHT, it's hard to hold me back. "Hey, I'm the injured party here. I didn't do anything wrong. I can prove it!" I don't suffer righteous indignation quietly.
I learned of a minister who left his pulpit to go to medical school and become a doctor. An old friend saw him several years later and expressed surprise at his career change, but said he assumed it had been because he could care for people in a more physical way now that he was practicing medicine.
"Not at all," the doctor responded honestly, "the reasons were purely economic. I discovered that people will pay more money to care for their bodies than for their souls."
Several years lapsed before the friend saw him again and discovered that he had left medicine for law. "What was your reason this time?" the friend asked.
"Simple economics again," replied the ex-minister, ex-doctor attorney. "I learned that people will pay more to prove they are right than to care for either body or soul."
I suppose I'm not the only person who enjoys being right. Is that part of our human nature? In conflict, it seems most folks want to come out on top. When they are wronged, they want justice. If no justice is forthcoming, they lament about the unfairness of it all and indignantly brood in self pity. Many people will go to great lengths to prove they are right - and at tremendous cost, not only financially, but in other ways.
Do you know how difficult it is to insist on being right? And how high the cost?
Being the injured party is costly to physical and emotional health. Some people stew about the injustice of it all while their stomachs are eaten away by ulcers. While they wait for an apology or a court case to vindicate them, they grow resentful and bitter. They obsess on the cause of their pain and allow it to rob them of one of their most valuable assets - their happiness. In the end, many of them discover they paid far too high a price to be right.
An important question for me is this: Do I want to be right, or do I want to be well? And a related question is this: Do I want to be right, or do I want to be happy? Because usually I have to choose.
But it's a choice I really ought to make.
-- Steve Goodier
The blacksmith half smiled and asked, "Kinda hot, wasn't it?"
"Nope," replied the cowboy, "just don't take me long to look at a horseshoe, that's all."
I chuckle because I don't enjoy admitting mistakes, either. Nope, I'm fine.I meant to do that.
Furthermore, when I think I'm right, I usually want people to know it. And when I'm IN THE RIGHT, it's hard to hold me back. "Hey, I'm the injured party here. I didn't do anything wrong. I can prove it!" I don't suffer righteous indignation quietly.
I learned of a minister who left his pulpit to go to medical school and become a doctor. An old friend saw him several years later and expressed surprise at his career change, but said he assumed it had been because he could care for people in a more physical way now that he was practicing medicine.
"Not at all," the doctor responded honestly, "the reasons were purely economic. I discovered that people will pay more money to care for their bodies than for their souls."
Several years lapsed before the friend saw him again and discovered that he had left medicine for law. "What was your reason this time?" the friend asked.
"Simple economics again," replied the ex-minister, ex-doctor attorney. "I learned that people will pay more to prove they are right than to care for either body or soul."
I suppose I'm not the only person who enjoys being right. Is that part of our human nature? In conflict, it seems most folks want to come out on top. When they are wronged, they want justice. If no justice is forthcoming, they lament about the unfairness of it all and indignantly brood in self pity. Many people will go to great lengths to prove they are right - and at tremendous cost, not only financially, but in other ways.
Do you know how difficult it is to insist on being right? And how high the cost?
Being the injured party is costly to physical and emotional health. Some people stew about the injustice of it all while their stomachs are eaten away by ulcers. While they wait for an apology or a court case to vindicate them, they grow resentful and bitter. They obsess on the cause of their pain and allow it to rob them of one of their most valuable assets - their happiness. In the end, many of them discover they paid far too high a price to be right.
An important question for me is this: Do I want to be right, or do I want to be well? And a related question is this: Do I want to be right, or do I want to be happy? Because usually I have to choose.
But it's a choice I really ought to make.
-- Steve Goodier
Oct 9, 2010
Quotes by Dalai Lama
You have to start giving first and expect absolutely nothing. — Dalai Lama
With realization of one's own potential & self confidence in one's ability, one can build a better world. — Dalai Lama
When you practice contentment you can say to yourself, 'Oh yes I already have everything that I really need'. — Dalai Lama
What unites all beings is their desire for happiness. — Dalai Lama
We must all live harmoniously with our neighbors. Your happiness depends on it. — Dalai Lama
We have to make a sustained effort, again and again, to cultivate the positive aspects within us. — Dalai Lama
We can never obtain peace in the outer world until we make peace with ourselves. — Dalai Lama
True compassion is not just an emotional response but a firm commitment founded on reason. — Dalai Lama
Through money or power you cannot solve all problems. The problem in the human heart must be solved first. — Dalai Lama
The ultimate source of happiness is our mental attitude. — Dalai Lama
The purpose of our lives is to be happy. — Dalai Lama
The more you nurture a feeling of loving kindness, the happier and calmer you will be. — Dalai Lama
Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk. — Dalai Lama
Spend some time alone every day. — Dalai Lama
Smile if you want a smile from another face. — Dalai Lama
See the positive side, the potential, and make an effort. — Dalai Lama
Remember that sometimes not getting what you want is a wonderful stroke of luck. — Dalai Lama
Peace does not come through prayer, we human beings must create peace. — Dalai Lama
Our purpose in life is to be happy. From the very core of our being, we simply desire contentment. — Dalai Lama
Once a year, go someplace you've never been before. — Dalai Lama
Nothing is permanent. — Dalai Lama
Love and compassion are the pillars of world peace. — Dalai Lama
Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive. — Dalai Lama
Oct 1, 2010
Sep 13, 2010
Honda U3-X Personal Mobility Device
Wow ... I so want to get this ... When is it coming to Singapore?
=)
=)
Aug 14, 2010
Happy Belated Birthday, Singapore!!
National Day long weekend over liao ... But no time to post ...
Have some laughs ... Wahahaha =)
Jul 25, 2010
Jul 23, 2010
Jul 3, 2010
Give Me A Road
Project 路 (ROAD)
生命中有多少次我们能帮助另一条生命
The idea behind these project I do is not about photography but rather in helping the people. Knowing that we don't just take photos of the poor but to provide help to the needy. I don't do this for myself but for them and to think on behalf of them. Photography is my daily work and I hope to use some of my time in helping people and doing something meaningful.
Guys I would appreciate if we know the purpose and keep our focus. We don't just show the pictures we bring back but to go back to continue the work we have just started. I give you (my friends) my support and may we continue to contribute back to humanity.
Recently a photographer friend took a picture of a poor boy sitting by the roadside that looks sad and lost, I saw the photo and send him a massage saying "did you give something for him to eat after you have took that photo?" His reply was sorry he didn't have the chance to do it due to some situation. I guess he know what I am saying and will know what to do in the future. At the end of the day... what's more important is not about the photo... it's what we do with that image.
I will keep everyone posted for the up coming events of project ROAD. And also to inform you to see how you could play a part in this meaningful project. Updates at www.alexsohphotography.wordpress.com, on my facebook and on project road facebook. Looking forward to your support.
Cheers
Alex
For friends who would like to support and help the people in Cham Resh, please leave your contact with us at chuamel@gmail.com / one@alexsohphotography.com
Jul 2, 2010
Playing It Safe
A young reporter wanted to get a feel for agriculture, so he called upon a farmer and said, "How's your wheat coming along?"
The farmer replied, "I didn't plant any."
"Really?" asked the reporter. "I thought this was supposed to be wheat country."
"Some say it is," came the reply. "But I was afraid we might not see enough rain this year."
"Well, what about your corn. How is it doing?" the young man inquired.
"Didn't plant corn this year. I was afraid of corn blight."
"Alfalfa?"
"Nope. Afraid the price might drop."
"Well, then," asked the reporter, "what did you plant?"
"Nothin'," the farmer said. "I just played it safe."
Here is a couple who REALLY played it safe:
The bride, white of hair, is stooped over her cane,
Her footsteps - uncertain - need guiding,
While down the opposite church aisle
With a wan, toothless smile
The bridegroom in wheelchair comes riding.
Now who is this elderly couple, thus wed?
Well, you'll find when you've closely explored it
That here is that rare,
Most conservative pair
Who waited 'til they could afford it!
Do you like playing it safe? If so, I found a Web site you just might love: Dull Men's Club. No excitement there. You'll never have to leave your comfort zone. The Dull Men's Club, found at http://www.dullmensclub.com, is a place in cyberspace for guys who feel "born to be mild" and enjoy adventure of such activities as watching grass grow and paint dry. I think dull women will like it, too.
But, as most of you know, some of best things in life can only be found after we cast aside a bit of caution. I learned that lesson playing baseball as a child. Ninety feet never seems so long as when you're trying to steal second base. And more than once I was thrown out trying to steal, but what a feeling those times I slid in safely. Joy. Exhilaration. The downside was worth it.
There is a life lesson here: you can't steal second base unless you run away from first. In some things, it is all or nothing. Run flat out or stay back, for there is no changing your mind.
Sometimes it takes courage to do what you've never done and go where you've never been. It's like stealing second base - whatever huge decision looms before you, your best solution will likely be made from the side of courage, rather than fear.
If you have any regrets 20 or 30 years from now, what will they be about? I don't think mine will be about the things I did. I think they will be more about the things I could have done, but was afraid to try. Those times I was afraid to take a chance because I might be rejected or thought to be silly. Those times I was afraid to do something new - make a change - because I was afraid I might fail.
Canadian Claude Thomas Bissell is credited with saying something profound about living life fully. He said,
"Risk more than others think is safe.
Care more than others think is wise.
Dream more than others think is practical.
Expect more than others think is possible."
You can't always play it safe if you want to LIVE.
-- Steve Goodier
Jun 13, 2010
Jun 10, 2010
Ten sentences that took me ten minutes to read
Pardon me, this is in Chinese ....
----------------------------------------------------
只有十句话，我却看了十分钟 ...
第一句
如果我们之间有1000步的距离
你只要跨出第1步
我就会朝你的方向走其余的999步
第二句
通常愿意留下来跟你争吵的人
才是真正爱你的人
第三句
付出真心 才会得到真心
却也可能伤得彻底
保持距离 就能保护自己
却也注定永远寂寞
第四句
有时候 不是对方不在乎你
而是你把对方看得太重
第五句
朋友就是把你看透了 还能喜欢你的人
第六句
就算是believe 中间也藏了一个lie
第七句
真正的好朋友
并不是在一起就有聊不完的话题
而是在一起 就算不说话
也不会感到尴尬
第八句
没有一百分的另一半
只有五十分的两个人
第九句
为你的难过而快乐的 是敌人
为你的快乐而快乐的 是朋友
为你的难过而难过的
就是那些 该放进心里的人
第十句
冷漠 有时候并不是无情
只是一种避免被伤害的工具
----------------------------------------------------
只有十句话，我却看了十分钟 ...
第一句
如果我们之间有1000步的距离
你只要跨出第1步
我就会朝你的方向走其余的999步
第二句
通常愿意留下来跟你争吵的人
才是真正爱你的人
第三句
付出真心 才会得到真心
却也可能伤得彻底
保持距离 就能保护自己
却也注定永远寂寞
第四句
有时候 不是对方不在乎你
而是你把对方看得太重
第五句
朋友就是把你看透了 还能喜欢你的人
第六句
就算是believe 中间也藏了一个lie
第七句
真正的好朋友
并不是在一起就有聊不完的话题
而是在一起 就算不说话
也不会感到尴尬
第八句
没有一百分的另一半
只有五十分的两个人
第九句
为你的难过而快乐的 是敌人
为你的快乐而快乐的 是朋友
为你的难过而难过的
就是那些 该放进心里的人
第十句
冷漠 有时候并不是无情
只是一种避免被伤害的工具
May 14, 2010
Universal Studios Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa
It has been ages since we went pak-toring (other than shopping for baby stuff and occassional dining out) ... Chanced upon this promo when surfing net last night ... Hmmm, set me thinking "Why not ...."
So, decided to plan a surprise for my wife ... this morning, told her that tonight will bring her to some new place but didn't say where ... keeps the suspense ... heehee
Guess the place?? ... Universal Studios Singapore !! at Resorts World Sentosa ... finally we are going there after it opened its doors couple of months back
The drive there was uneventful ... heavy traffic as usual on CTE towards AYE, near PIE exit ... upon entering the bridge to Sentosa, keep left and enter the RWS carpark, else have to pay admission fee to Sentosa lor
Looking for a place to park was harder than i thought ... many many cars ... haiz ... eventually parked and had to walk some distance back to get to the escalator up to Universal Studios
Bought the tickets @ $2 each
and we went to check out the Hershey's store, near the entrance ... You won't miss it ... and next to that is a small store selling popcorn ... wow, long Q (must be good lor, typical Singaporean style, see got Q, must join in ... lol)
Tasted the different flavours first (can try one, good ah) and then decided to get a small pack of cashew caramel crisp popcorn ... guess the price!! woo hoo ....
Alright! Time to go in ....
This is the start of Hollywood street
A few of the shops selling stuff and makan ...
even got a cinema "Pantages" which was screening "Shrek 2" tonight ... tickets are only $3 each
and we met Shrek and Fiona "LIVE" !! Wow ...
Here they are walking past Eunice :)
My wife and daughter ... They are the best and greatest!!
Took a photo of my new ride :P ... lol
And rested our tired legs, to wait for the fireworks show to start ....
But then, 8pm came and went, still no fireworks?!?
Asked around and the staff says there isn't any fireworks show at all leh ...
Hmmm, sure bo? We tot everyday got fireworks (machiam Disneyland), both of us also blur blur ... lol
Took some more photos (till camera bo battery liao, oops, forgot to charge full) and then, time to go back home!!
A long walk back to the car .....
Till then, next time perhaps .....
So, decided to plan a surprise for my wife ... this morning, told her that tonight will bring her to some new place but didn't say where ... keeps the suspense ... heehee
Guess the place?? ... Universal Studios Singapore !! at Resorts World Sentosa ... finally we are going there after it opened its doors couple of months back
The drive there was uneventful ... heavy traffic as usual on CTE towards AYE, near PIE exit ... upon entering the bridge to Sentosa, keep left and enter the RWS carpark, else have to pay admission fee to Sentosa lor
Looking for a place to park was harder than i thought ... many many cars ... haiz ... eventually parked and had to walk some distance back to get to the escalator up to Universal Studios
Bought the tickets @ $2 each
and we went to check out the Hershey's store, near the entrance ... You won't miss it ... and next to that is a small store selling popcorn ... wow, long Q (must be good lor, typical Singaporean style, see got Q, must join in ... lol)
Tasted the different flavours first (can try one, good ah) and then decided to get a small pack of cashew caramel crisp popcorn ... guess the price!! woo hoo ....
Alright! Time to go in ....
This is the start of Hollywood street
A few of the shops selling stuff and makan ...
even got a cinema "Pantages" which was screening "Shrek 2" tonight ... tickets are only $3 each
and we met Shrek and Fiona "LIVE" !! Wow ...
Here they are walking past Eunice :)
My wife and daughter ... They are the best and greatest!!
Took a photo of my new ride :P ... lol
And rested our tired legs, to wait for the fireworks show to start ....
But then, 8pm came and went, still no fireworks?!?
Asked around and the staff says there isn't any fireworks show at all leh ...
Hmmm, sure bo? We tot everyday got fireworks (machiam Disneyland), both of us also blur blur ... lol
Took some more photos (till camera bo battery liao, oops, forgot to charge full) and then, time to go back home!!
A long walk back to the car .....
Till then, next time perhaps .....
Apr 25, 2010
Tweaks and Themes
One of the things i like to do every now and then is to play around with tweaks and themes, be it OS desktop or mobile phone.
But somehow never got around to designing and coding one of my own .... hmmm .... maybe next time will do one ... heehee
Here's my current desktop, which i am quite happy with at the moment ... it is using Rainmeter as the customization engine.
Credit goes to Lightning at Sunset and Customize Your Own Killer "Enigma" Desktop
But somehow never got around to designing and coding one of my own .... hmmm .... maybe next time will do one ... heehee
Here's my current desktop, which i am quite happy with at the moment ... it is using Rainmeter as the customization engine.
Credit goes to Lightning at Sunset and Customize Your Own Killer "Enigma" Desktop
Apr 6, 2010
Love and Time
Writer Gary Jennings said this: "Love and time, those are the only two things in all the world and all of life, that cannot be bought, but only spent."
I love that. And HOW I spend my love and time is what it is all about.
My work and interests require me to spend probably an inordinate amount of time in front of my computer. At least according to my wife Bev.
She and I were talking one day about death and funerals and what to do with each other's remains. I asked. "What will you do with my body? Burial? Cremation?"
She answered, "I think I'll just have you stuffed and propped up in your chair by the computer. That way when I walk through the room I won't even notice that you're gone."
I got the point - too much computer time. And how I spend my time and my love is all important.
The question I ask myself is this: "Do I generously and freely give love and time away - and especially to those closest to me?"
Charles Francis Adams was the United States ambassador to Great Britain during the Lincoln administration. He had the habit of keeping a daily diary. He also taught his son Brooks the value of journaling his activities in a diary.
One memorable day, eight-year-old Brooks recorded, "Went fishing with my father, the most glorious day of my life." It must have been a glorious day, for the next forty years Brooks repeatedly mentioned it in his diary. It became a life-long memory.
His father also wrote about the fishing trip. His own diary on that pivotal day for his son reads, "Went fishing with my son; a day wasted."
He didn't get it. That one single day he generously and freely gave love and time away to Brooks may have been the one of the most important days of his son's life. Did he feel that, as a United States ambassador, his time was too valuable to be "wasted" with his children? History seems to show that a fishing trip with his son paid huge dividends in Brooks' life.
I only hope I will spend love and time so well.
-- Steve Goodier
I love that. And HOW I spend my love and time is what it is all about.
My work and interests require me to spend probably an inordinate amount of time in front of my computer. At least according to my wife Bev.
She and I were talking one day about death and funerals and what to do with each other's remains. I asked. "What will you do with my body? Burial? Cremation?"
She answered, "I think I'll just have you stuffed and propped up in your chair by the computer. That way when I walk through the room I won't even notice that you're gone."
I got the point - too much computer time. And how I spend my time and my love is all important.
The question I ask myself is this: "Do I generously and freely give love and time away - and especially to those closest to me?"
Charles Francis Adams was the United States ambassador to Great Britain during the Lincoln administration. He had the habit of keeping a daily diary. He also taught his son Brooks the value of journaling his activities in a diary.
One memorable day, eight-year-old Brooks recorded, "Went fishing with my father, the most glorious day of my life." It must have been a glorious day, for the next forty years Brooks repeatedly mentioned it in his diary. It became a life-long memory.
His father also wrote about the fishing trip. His own diary on that pivotal day for his son reads, "Went fishing with my son; a day wasted."
He didn't get it. That one single day he generously and freely gave love and time away to Brooks may have been the one of the most important days of his son's life. Did he feel that, as a United States ambassador, his time was too valuable to be "wasted" with his children? History seems to show that a fishing trip with his son paid huge dividends in Brooks' life.
I only hope I will spend love and time so well.
-- Steve Goodier
Apr 4, 2010
The Rose
A nice song to relax on a rainy Sunday morning ....
Some say love, it is a river
that drowns the tender reed.
Some say love, it is a razor
that leaves your soul to bleed.
Some say love, it is a hunger,
an endless aching need.
I say love, it is a flower,
and you its only seed.
It's the heart afraid of breaking
that never learns to dance.
It's the dream afraid of waking
that never takes the chance.
It's the one who won't be taken,
who cannot seem to give,
and the soul afraid of dyin'
that never learns to live.
When the night has been too lonely
and the road has been to long,
and you think that love is only
for the lucky and the strong,
just remember in the winter
far beneath the bitter snows
lies the seed that with the sun's love
in the spring becomes the rose.
that drowns the tender reed.
Some say love, it is a razor
that leaves your soul to bleed.
Some say love, it is a hunger,
an endless aching need.
I say love, it is a flower,
and you its only seed.
It's the heart afraid of breaking
that never learns to dance.
It's the dream afraid of waking
that never takes the chance.
It's the one who won't be taken,
who cannot seem to give,
and the soul afraid of dyin'
that never learns to live.
When the night has been too lonely
and the road has been to long,
and you think that love is only
for the lucky and the strong,
just remember in the winter
far beneath the bitter snows
lies the seed that with the sun's love
in the spring becomes the rose.
Feb 22, 2010
A Day of Indulging
Body massage and facial at Spa Dor ---> $60
Subway melt sandwich ---> $13
Strolling hand in hand along Orchard Road ... in the rain ---> Priceless
Hahaha ... Ya, the rain came pouring down ....
Raindrops keep fallin' on my head
But that doesn't mean my eyes will soon be turnin' red
Cryin's not for me
'Cause I'm never gonna stop the rain by complainin'
Because I'm free
Nothin's worryin' me
But that doesn't mean my eyes will soon be turnin' red
Cryin's not for me
'Cause I'm never gonna stop the rain by complainin'
Because I'm free
Nothin's worryin' me
Feb 4, 2010
Jan 29, 2010
Dad's For Life
A heartwarming video about fathers, for fathers
First produced for the Dads for Life movement by the National Family Council and Fathers Action Network to encourage fathers in Singapore to be more involved in their children's lives.
Commissioned by the Ministry Of Community Development, Youth and Sports (Singapore), Little Red Ants Creative Studio is proud to work on this project with renowned photographer and first-time director Tay Kay Chin.
Jan 26, 2010
Jan 8, 2010
Jan 7, 2010
All how you choose to think about life
We are already in 2010!!
Wow, time flies, no matter whether you are having fun or not ... So, why not be happy and smile while time passes you by?
It's all how you choose to think about life ...
I AM THANKFUL:
FOR THE WIFE
WHO SAYS DINNER IS HOT DOGS TONIGHT
BECAUSE SHE IS HOME WITH ME
AND NOT OUT WITH SOMEONE ELSE
FOR THE HUSBAND
WHO IS ON THE SOFA BEING A COUCH POTATO
BECAUSE HE IS HOME WITH ME
AND NOT OUT AT THE BARS
FOR THE TEENAGER
WHO IS COMPLAINING ABOUT DOING DISHES
BECAUSE IT MEANS SHE IS AT HOME
NOT ON THE STREETS
FOR THE TAXES I PAY
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM EMPLOYED
FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A PARTY
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS
FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUG
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE ENOUGH TO EAT
FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM OUT IN THE SUNSHINE
FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING
WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING
AND GUTTERS THAT NEED FIXING
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME
FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING
I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT
BECAUSE IT MEANS WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH
FOR THE PARKING SPOT
I FIND AT THE FAR END OF THE PARKING LOT
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM CAPABLE OF WALKING
AND I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH TRANSPORTATION
FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILL
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM WARM
FOR THE LADY BEHIND ME IN CHURCH
WHO SINGS OFF KEY
BECAUSE IT MEANS I CAN HEAR
FOR THE PILE OF LAUNDRY AND IRONING
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE CLOTHES TO WEAR
FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES
AT THE END OF THE DAY
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN CAPABLE OF WORKING HARD
FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFF
IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM ALIVE
AND I AM THANKFUL:
FOR THE crazy people I work with
BECAUSE they make work interesting and fun!!
AND FINALLY, FOR TOO MUCH E-MAIL
BECAUSE IT MEANS
I HAVE FRIENDS WHO ARE THINKING OF ME
Share this with someone you care about ... I just did :)
Live well, Laugh often, & Love with all of your heart!
If you like this, here are some more:
Be thankful for what you have
Feeling More Thankful
Wow, time flies, no matter whether you are having fun or not ... So, why not be happy and smile while time passes you by?
It's all how you choose to think about life ...
I AM THANKFUL:
FOR THE WIFE
WHO SAYS DINNER IS HOT DOGS TONIGHT
BECAUSE SHE IS HOME WITH ME
AND NOT OUT WITH SOMEONE ELSE
FOR THE HUSBAND
WHO IS ON THE SOFA BEING A COUCH POTATO
BECAUSE HE IS HOME WITH ME
AND NOT OUT AT THE BARS
FOR THE TEENAGER
WHO IS COMPLAINING ABOUT DOING DISHES
BECAUSE IT MEANS SHE IS AT HOME
NOT ON THE STREETS
FOR THE TAXES I PAY
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM EMPLOYED
FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A PARTY
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS
FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUG
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE ENOUGH TO EAT
FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM OUT IN THE SUNSHINE
FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING
WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING
AND GUTTERS THAT NEED FIXING
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME
FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING
I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT
BECAUSE IT MEANS WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH
FOR THE PARKING SPOT
I FIND AT THE FAR END OF THE PARKING LOT
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM CAPABLE OF WALKING
AND I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH TRANSPORTATION
FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILL
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM WARM
FOR THE LADY BEHIND ME IN CHURCH
WHO SINGS OFF KEY
BECAUSE IT MEANS I CAN HEAR
FOR THE PILE OF LAUNDRY AND IRONING
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE CLOTHES TO WEAR
FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES
AT THE END OF THE DAY
BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN CAPABLE OF WORKING HARD
FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFF
IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS
BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM ALIVE
AND I AM THANKFUL:
FOR THE crazy people I work with
BECAUSE they make work interesting and fun!!
AND FINALLY, FOR TOO MUCH E-MAIL
BECAUSE IT MEANS
I HAVE FRIENDS WHO ARE THINKING OF ME
Share this with someone you care about ... I just did :)
Live well, Laugh often, & Love with all of your heart!
If you like this, here are some more:
Be thankful for what you have
Feeling More Thankful
Dec 13, 2009
Never Too Late
Katharine Hepburn once said, "Life is hard. After all, it kills you." And it can kill you early if you don't figure out how to change. Let me explain.
The expression "turning over a new leaf" refers to turning pages of a book. Just as the plot of a novel changes from page to page, people, too, can change their lives. Indeed they have to if they are to live well.
I enjoy reading about ancient cultures. And it occurs to me that most of the old civilizations are gone. Some have left little behind except ruins and rubble. What happened? Where are the people, their music and ideas? Why are they nothing more today than a collection of stones visited by tourists and curious historians?
The answer, of course, is not the same the world over. But Arnold Toynbee, in his work THE STUDY OF HISTORY (1987), says that the great lesson of history is this: civilizations that changed when confronted with challenges thrived. Those that did not change died. In other words, when life got hard, it killed off those who didn't make needed changes. The key to survival is often about "change."
And what about us? What about you and me? It's good to accept ourselves as we are, but when an unhealthy attitude or a destructive behavior gets in the way, when we wish we could change something about ourselves, we had better change. People who embrace change thrive; those who resist it die.
If you have been waiting for a sign to make that needed change, this may be it. I am convinced that it is never too late to be the person you might have been. It's never too late to be happy. It's never too late to do something different or to do something better. It's never too late to change a habit. It's never too late to live.
Begin making that necessary change today. Then tomorrow, and every tomorrow thereafter, can truly be different.
-- Steve Goodier
The expression "turning over a new leaf" refers to turning pages of a book. Just as the plot of a novel changes from page to page, people, too, can change their lives. Indeed they have to if they are to live well.
I enjoy reading about ancient cultures. And it occurs to me that most of the old civilizations are gone. Some have left little behind except ruins and rubble. What happened? Where are the people, their music and ideas? Why are they nothing more today than a collection of stones visited by tourists and curious historians?
The answer, of course, is not the same the world over. But Arnold Toynbee, in his work THE STUDY OF HISTORY (1987), says that the great lesson of history is this: civilizations that changed when confronted with challenges thrived. Those that did not change died. In other words, when life got hard, it killed off those who didn't make needed changes. The key to survival is often about "change."
And what about us? What about you and me? It's good to accept ourselves as we are, but when an unhealthy attitude or a destructive behavior gets in the way, when we wish we could change something about ourselves, we had better change. People who embrace change thrive; those who resist it die.
If you have been waiting for a sign to make that needed change, this may be it. I am convinced that it is never too late to be the person you might have been. It's never too late to be happy. It's never too late to do something different or to do something better. It's never too late to change a habit. It's never too late to live.
Begin making that necessary change today. Then tomorrow, and every tomorrow thereafter, can truly be different.
-- Steve Goodier
Nov 23, 2009
The Gift
A story about an old Bendix washing machine helped one man get through the valley of loss.
His parents acquired the washer when John Claypool was a small boy. It happened during World War II. His family owned no washing machine and, since gasoline was rationed, they could ill afford trips to the laundry several miles away. Keeping clothes clean became a problem for young John's household.
A family friend was drafted into the service, and his wife prepared to go with him. John's family offered to store their furniture while they were away. To the family's surprise, the friends suggested they use their Bendix while they were gone. "It would be better for it to be running," they said, "than sitting up rusting." So this is how they acquired the washer.
Young John helped with the washing, and across the years he developed an affection for the old, green Bendix. But eventually the war ended. Their friends returned. In the meantime he had forgotten how the machine came to be in their basement in the first place. When the friends came to take it away, John grew terribly upset -- and let his feelings be known.
His wise mother sat him down and said, "Wait a minute, Son. You must remember, that machine never belonged to us in the first place. That we ever got to use it at all was a gift. So, instead of being mad at it being taken away, let's use this occasion to be grateful that we had it at all."
The lesson proved invaluable. Years later, John watched his eight-year-old daughter die a slow and painful death of leukemia. Though he struggled for months with her death, John could not really begin healing from the loss until he remembered the old Bendix.
"I am here to testify," he said, "that this is the only way down the mountain of loss...when I remember that Laura Lou was a gift, pure and simple, something I neither earned nor deserved nor had a right to. And when I remember that the appropriate response to a gift, even when it is taken away, is gratitude, then I am better able to try and thank God that I was ever given her in the first place."
His daughter was given to him to love and nurture. She never belonged to him, but he had the awesome privilege of sharing her life for a while. When he realized that simple fact, everything changed. He could now begin healing from the tragedy of her loss by focusing instead on the wonder of her life. He started to see Laura Lou as a marvelous gift that he was fortunate enough to enjoy for a time. He felt grateful. He found strength and healing. He finally knew he could get through the valley of loss.
We all experience loss -- loss of people, loss of jobs, loss of relationships, loss of independence, loss of esteem, loss of things. What if you view that which is lost as a gift you were given for a time? Perhaps that simple choice of trying to reframe your loss will change sad memories into thankful ones. And perhaps it will get you unstuck and back on the road to healing and wholeness.
-- Steve Goodier
His parents acquired the washer when John Claypool was a small boy. It happened during World War II. His family owned no washing machine and, since gasoline was rationed, they could ill afford trips to the laundry several miles away. Keeping clothes clean became a problem for young John's household.
A family friend was drafted into the service, and his wife prepared to go with him. John's family offered to store their furniture while they were away. To the family's surprise, the friends suggested they use their Bendix while they were gone. "It would be better for it to be running," they said, "than sitting up rusting." So this is how they acquired the washer.
Young John helped with the washing, and across the years he developed an affection for the old, green Bendix. But eventually the war ended. Their friends returned. In the meantime he had forgotten how the machine came to be in their basement in the first place. When the friends came to take it away, John grew terribly upset -- and let his feelings be known.
His wise mother sat him down and said, "Wait a minute, Son. You must remember, that machine never belonged to us in the first place. That we ever got to use it at all was a gift. So, instead of being mad at it being taken away, let's use this occasion to be grateful that we had it at all."
The lesson proved invaluable. Years later, John watched his eight-year-old daughter die a slow and painful death of leukemia. Though he struggled for months with her death, John could not really begin healing from the loss until he remembered the old Bendix.
"I am here to testify," he said, "that this is the only way down the mountain of loss...when I remember that Laura Lou was a gift, pure and simple, something I neither earned nor deserved nor had a right to. And when I remember that the appropriate response to a gift, even when it is taken away, is gratitude, then I am better able to try and thank God that I was ever given her in the first place."
His daughter was given to him to love and nurture. She never belonged to him, but he had the awesome privilege of sharing her life for a while. When he realized that simple fact, everything changed. He could now begin healing from the tragedy of her loss by focusing instead on the wonder of her life. He started to see Laura Lou as a marvelous gift that he was fortunate enough to enjoy for a time. He felt grateful. He found strength and healing. He finally knew he could get through the valley of loss.
We all experience loss -- loss of people, loss of jobs, loss of relationships, loss of independence, loss of esteem, loss of things. What if you view that which is lost as a gift you were given for a time? Perhaps that simple choice of trying to reframe your loss will change sad memories into thankful ones. And perhaps it will get you unstuck and back on the road to healing and wholeness.
-- Steve Goodier
Nov 6, 2009
Letting Your Soul Catch Up
Did you know that practicing some form of relaxation is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself? Taking time each day to quiet your mind and breathe deeply, can make a big difference in how you feel throughout your day and into the night. And dedicating a day every week for mental and spiritual renewal is equally important.
We're told that the word "relax" has its origin in the Latin word "relaxare," which means "to loosen." When we relax, we are in effect loosening tension, releasing tightly held energy and letting go. From the state of relaxation we can experience calm peacefulness.
Another great word is the Hebrew word "Shabbat" which, of course, is a day of rest. But it quite literally means to "quit; stop; take a break." Whatever you are doing, stop it. Whatever you are saying, be quiet. Sit down and take a look around. Don't do anything. Don't say anything. Fold your hands. Take a deep breath...
Extended periods of rest are a biological necessity. The human body is like an old-fashioned wind-up clock. If it is not rewound by rest, ultimately it will run itself down.
A group of Americans made a trip with Brazilian natives down the Amazon River. The first day they rushed. The second day they rushed. The next day they rushed. One day, anxious to continue the trek, they were surprised to find the natives seated together in a circle.
When asked the reason for the delay, a guide answered, "They are waiting. They cannot move further until their souls have caught up with their bodies."
Do you owe yourself time to let your soul catch up with your body?
-- Steve Goodier
We're told that the word "relax" has its origin in the Latin word "relaxare," which means "to loosen." When we relax, we are in effect loosening tension, releasing tightly held energy and letting go. From the state of relaxation we can experience calm peacefulness.
Another great word is the Hebrew word "Shabbat" which, of course, is a day of rest. But it quite literally means to "quit; stop; take a break." Whatever you are doing, stop it. Whatever you are saying, be quiet. Sit down and take a look around. Don't do anything. Don't say anything. Fold your hands. Take a deep breath...
Extended periods of rest are a biological necessity. The human body is like an old-fashioned wind-up clock. If it is not rewound by rest, ultimately it will run itself down.
A group of Americans made a trip with Brazilian natives down the Amazon River. The first day they rushed. The second day they rushed. The next day they rushed. One day, anxious to continue the trek, they were surprised to find the natives seated together in a circle.
When asked the reason for the delay, a guide answered, "They are waiting. They cannot move further until their souls have caught up with their bodies."
Do you owe yourself time to let your soul catch up with your body?
-- Steve Goodier
Oct 24, 2009
Shell Fuel Promotion
A lazy saturday ... Went to queue up for the Shell fuel promotion - $1 per litre of FuelSave 95 or 98 ... just for today only, 10am till 6pm
Many, many cars in the long queue indeed ... were you one of them??
Pumped a full tank of petrol, went home to lim kopi and take photos of the never-ending queue ... lol
Oct 16, 2009
Today is Friday
Been a while since my last post ... How's life for you?
Me ... Started a new chapter in my life ...
- Become a father to Eunice Ng, our baby girl
Here's a slideshow i did for her full month!!
- Bought my first new car
.... after 10 years ago, when i bought my first second-hand car in 1999, later sold off to scrapyard, before i ORD in 2003
Buying car is a liability, if dun need, better save the money ... Mainly, i buy for convenience sake cos need to use for work and family, rather than spending money on taking cab and still need to wait for cab some more ... hahaha
Was deciding between these few models:
Suzuki Swift - 1.5l engine power, comes with pretty good options, price around 55k after cash rebate
Honda Fit - 1.3l, good fuel consumption, can get between 14 to 16km per litre (for auto) but price quite ex, around 60k
Kia Picanto - 1.1l, drives well, decent fuel consumption (between 12 to 14km per litre for auto), a good Point A to B car, price 43k
After doing my sums, i decided on Kia Picanto cos i just need a budget car, dun want to spend too much.
Went down to C&C to test drive ... end up couldn't get any freebies from the agent, only neg for remote alarm ... lol ... which i thought should come as standard!? wtf ... also have to pay extra 1k for factory fitted leather seats and 500plus for paint protection and rust proofing ... haiz, what to do ...
A consolation is that the agent really help to push hard for the delivery ... I got the car in just 2 weeks after booking and successful COE bidding ... Woo hoo!! That was fast ...
On hindsight, i should have booked the car in Apr or May 09, when COE was just about 5k and Kia Picanto only cost around 33k ... that is a massive 10k discount wor
- At work
... closing off 2 projects, so not too stressed out now, can take a breather before moving on to next project
That's all i have for today ... Enjoy the weekend!!
Me ... Started a new chapter in my life ...
- Become a father to Eunice Ng, our baby girl
Here's a slideshow i did for her full month!!
- Bought my first new car
.... after 10 years ago, when i bought my first second-hand car in 1999, later sold off to scrapyard, before i ORD in 2003
Buying car is a liability, if dun need, better save the money ... Mainly, i buy for convenience sake cos need to use for work and family, rather than spending money on taking cab and still need to wait for cab some more ... hahaha
Was deciding between these few models:
Suzuki Swift - 1.5l engine power, comes with pretty good options, price around 55k after cash rebate
Honda Fit - 1.3l, good fuel consumption, can get between 14 to 16km per litre (for auto) but price quite ex, around 60k
Kia Picanto - 1.1l, drives well, decent fuel consumption (between 12 to 14km per litre for auto), a good Point A to B car, price 43k
After doing my sums, i decided on Kia Picanto cos i just need a budget car, dun want to spend too much.
Went down to C&C to test drive ... end up couldn't get any freebies from the agent, only neg for remote alarm ... lol ... which i thought should come as standard!? wtf ... also have to pay extra 1k for factory fitted leather seats and 500plus for paint protection and rust proofing ... haiz, what to do ...
A consolation is that the agent really help to push hard for the delivery ... I got the car in just 2 weeks after booking and successful COE bidding ... Woo hoo!! That was fast ...
On hindsight, i should have booked the car in Apr or May 09, when COE was just about 5k and Kia Picanto only cost around 33k ... that is a massive 10k discount wor
- At work
... closing off 2 projects, so not too stressed out now, can take a breather before moving on to next project
That's all i have for today ... Enjoy the weekend!!
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