DIY Madness Continues

In my recent post I shared my hopes to accomplish a year-end project, Project Planner 2016. A DIY planner that I want to fully customize for myself because I am just not satisfied with the ones I have used or currently using.

As I progressed past research stage, I have been testing out which of the DIY guides I've seen online that will truly work for me. 

Today I realize I really prefer using recycled materials, and it does make me feel more frugal than just buying materials off the shelves.

This evening after work, I alighted at Tampines and visited Urban Write and Popular bookstore. I even went to Artbox to see what's good to buy and use for my project.

Alas, a lot of the things are just so darn expensive on materials alone. There really is no point in doing DIY if I'm going to be spending so much money on materials. It's just not sensible!

I really don't know where this is heading. Needless to say, I really feel challenged. Looking through awesome DIY planners frustrate me rather than inspire.

But I shall and will not give up until I truly try the best ways to achieve what I want!

So here's some progress updates :)

Year End Project

It has been a long time since I actually posted on this blog. I cannot however leave this outdated because this is supposed to be my book for goodness sake.

So just to update with a new post, I want to share my current fancy.

I'm looking at DIY-ing my own personal planner. I have already started researching, and ascertaining the look and feel of my planner. 

However, it's still been futile and I only have 2.5 months to get the planning and creation of the planner. I want it to look good but I need it to be functional as well.

I can't wait to see my work bear fruits. I just always cannot seem to enjoy planners off the shelves because it's too professional looking, and some of the things I need is not there. Of course it has to do with budget too!

I mean really, look at Kikki K's planners, they're going at $95 for the ones that capture my fancy. No doubt materials are of A-list quality, I just cannot imagine spending $95 on a planner!

So anyhow, just want to keep this short since I'm still catching up on emails post 2-days of medical leave. 

Here's my progress so far:

- Research

- Prototyping

Christmas Lunch @ Raffles Hotel

Yesterday, I attended my company's Christmas lunch held at Bars and Billiard in Raffles Hotel.

I was and in fact, have always been so taken by this 5 star hotel's colonial architecture, an iconic hotel in Singapore.

With a rich heritage to boot, you would never expect anything lesser than excellence.

Or so I thought.

While the entire place is superb, and a feast to the eyes, I'm sad to say that the food was less than fantastic.

The lunch spread was not all I expected. Truly disappointing.

Perhaps I expected too much. But hearing from quite a number of my colleagues on their thoughts about the lunch, it further affirms my perspective.

This experience spoke this to me:

Reputation can only take you too far. You have to be able to keep working to maintain your command of leadership in quality (and in everything else). You have to keep growing, keep learning, keep listening to feedback and innovate. You have to continue to explore new recipes, new additions and upgrade your seemingly working versions.

Inspired by these thoughts, I recall the words of Jesus telling His disciples about servant leadership.

Let me tell you how they are related.

He said that who is the greatest among them will be their servant. I wonder who among the disciples thought again of being the greatest.

We can cringe at this thought but this is something we can apply in our life.

You see if we continue to stand proud and hold on to the glory days, to lord it over all that we are the best because of the last pitches we succeeded in and a certain revolutionary product we invented, we will fade out... In time.

This idea isn't foreign to you.

You see this from the many companies and brands as well as leaders who fail to serve their industries and followers by seeking to understand the current needs of the now. They are now either phasing out or have become things of the past.

So choose wisely, friends.

Start serving if you want to be the best in your field.

God bless!

Diamonds are forever

So it's been many years of friendship and we stuck it out through good, bad and the ugly. The new year brought about much love and support that we can never thought we can receive from one another.

This time the bitchifive are finally five again with Lyn more available and reachable despite her busy flight schedule. (Lyn isn't in this recent photos because she's in Japan)

With Hajar married we are sure the next one is on the way and we're just finger pointing at one another to step up to that pedestal of bliss.

My instinct tells me it will be Lyn and Peter. Among the rest of us, both of them have been solid but of course with some normal couple irks.

Yours truly is taking it easy and focusing more on other aspects. However, I have recently admitted to feelings towards #hewhowouldsoonbenamed. It's something unexpecting and it crept up so slowly without me realizing it. I find it so beautiful to write about but that will be for another post.

I am blessed to be with these ladies who have always been there to make life sane. Being a strong and stubborn character, I have a lot of impact in their lives but when it comes to needing to be heard and to slap across a point to me, they are never soft about it.

They are far too opinionated to be shut up, and I must say that I am grateful because they become these strong spirited ladies who have grown successful in their lives and careers yet still find the time to be made available, sometimes just to bitch and whine.

When time calls for seriousness and the need to listen, they have always been there.
While they say DIAMONDS are a girl's best friend, you can be sure that she has loves that are on par with diamonds she holds dear.
So similar too with my girlfriends who have loved me and stuck it by me through my seasons of joy, pain and craziness, I have other girlfriends who have made a strong impact in my life that writing about them in paragraph under my long time girlfriends will not do them justice.

These are my ladies... My comrades. And tho I bitch and whine about things they sometimes don't understand, I thank God that they find my advices sound and worth the listen to. I am very much grateful and I pray to continue to persevere in times when everything is so mediocre and all of us are just too lazy or find it such a hassle to be available for one another.

It's always important to have such friends to stick by you and if you have a group that you owe your sanity to at some extent, write it down and share with the world your words of love for them.

Loves xxx

Because it's fun we always look forward to!

Despite my on-and-off-and-on again mode of blogging, I very much enjoy cataloging the important highlights of my life on other platforms in the social media world.

Of course, Facebook will be my most updated channel what with being a project manager for applications on all most-things Facebook. Followed by Instagram and Twitter.

I enjoy Instagram for its photo-centric updates because I enjoy taking photos very much. However, I am only at 512 Instagram entries as at the time I wrote this because I only joined the platform after my 10 months sabbatical from all-things smartphones in order to focus more on what matters in my life.

Twitter isn't my thing at the moment really, unless perhaps my boss requires us to share or like a post by clients supported by other overseas teams. For me, Twitter is just a rant tool. To be honest even though I have been on it since 2007, I haven't really found the use for it.

Here to update my recent June happenings highlight (quite a few firsts actually)

Amanda's hen's night with #ihubbers and ex-ihubbers girlfriends

It was an awesome night and every girls are hyped to party, except for moi.

I have yet to finish packing up for my upcoming trip, so I had to bid goodbye to them girls. What a wet-blanket I was. Just so glad that I even came to the hotel for some drinks and truth-or-dare games!

First 2nd cousins who came to Singapore and stayed with us for 2 nights

Did i mention that I have a lot of cousins? This cousin of my is also my god-sister because our mums are our baptism God-mother and very good cousins and friends. It's such a waste I didn't get to catch up much with Zhala and her boyfriend, Carlo because of my really busy schedule over the weekend. I'm really thankful to my parents for making their stay wonderful and they really took care of them so well, too!

Zhala's Thank You post for the weekend stay =)

First Holy Concert catching Hillsong United at the Singapore Indoor Stadium

I felt weird at first, to be honest. I don't know how I should actually connect to God when it's a concert setting. I have been co-leading the worship session at Church since March this year, and I can't imagine doing it on stage. The whole entire secularism of concerts really eggs me on. I just couldn't put my focus on the right place. I decided to go in the end anyway because I wanted to experience what it feels like to attend a Christian concert. I attended with Jeremy, Wilson and wife, Mary, along with the couple's friends. 

It was exhilarating after awhile when they started singing songs that makes me mellow down and descend to my innermost being, where He resides within. Thereafter, I was able to have fun with the Lord but nearing to the end. 

First Wedding in my #DIAMONDS group

Nothing else to say really. She's tied down, hooked and so ready for commitment. She is now a wife to a guy we, her girlfriends, thought isn't good for her. But as it turned out, only a couple would truly know if they are meant for each other on their own. No amount of perception could paint the lives of lovers and it's at this moment of time that the couple learn to stand firm and be part of one another, in one communal bond that will go through a lot of tests in due time. We, their friends, will have to rough it out with them and be objective when they need help for thoughts and opinions. I continue to pray for them, that they may learn to keep the love alive - to be one in heart and soul. Amen.

First trip together to the Philippines as a complete family

I think i was still a young girl when all of us went back together as one. Most of the times since I started working, we always travel separate or don't find the need to really go together. But because our relationships with one another have greatly improved over the years, we do more things together as a family, or shall I say, I am responsive with their offers of doing things together. Prayers to our Lady for restoration of relationship truly works and my family is a testimony of it. (Will write more about this story next time)

Arranged for Baptism for Sean Isid on 22nd June, Sunday 12pm
I'm Godmother! Officially able to attend such a ceremony

I think I updated more than I actually initially wanted. Enjoy, and here's hoping for more post! =)

God bless you all <3

Karaoke Night with ihubbers

After 3 other gatherings I've missed since we all first hung out, my colleagues finally got me to commit to a date after almost a month of booking. It's really nice to have set aside a Friday to join them and really just have fun on the microphone.

It's important to always build connections with colleagues because then you get to see them more as friends than work buddies who you might not personally think you need to be nice to. I am thankful that despite always not being able to make it for gatherings, they never gave up on inviting me.

I assured them that I will join them for more, just as long as they let me know on advance.

Last Friday I said to myself that I will commit at least once every quarter to hang out with them to build rapport and connect with them as friends.

Cheers

Making a Choice

After CHOICE, I have been set towards a path of making THE choice. Scary really. But I feel like if I don't make the choice between my ego and my heart... I can never move on from where I am.

Jan and Jean

Wow like seriously, who would have thought that despite the things we have done and said to each other, the way we ended or parted, I can never have fathomed that Jan Rick and I would still be friends!

He's been invited for an interview for a community management role but he was told by my VP that he fits the role of a project manager best, like what I'm doing. I pray that it all goes well with my COO in his next interview too so that whatever wasted years apart from each other will be mended in time.

When Jan and I are together, it doesn't feel as if we even fell out or that I even exchanged him for an ex boyfriend. Ah the mad history...

But really I praise the Lord that Jan is still in my life... amidst drama.

So I decided to pamper him with some extra carrot cake for lunch, like how he always does for me in our tertiary years, much to my dietary dismay. Hee.

Today, at the day of the Lord's Ascension, I claim that everything will be beautiful for Jan. I also claim in Jesus name that my friendship with him will continue to be forged in stone, by God's Grace!

Goodnight!

Singapore River Cruise

It's Lolo's (grandpa in Tagalog) last month in Singapore since he came over last November. So I took him out for dinner and some sightseeing yesterday night.

Lolo showing off his almost-hit lottery ticket

We went for dinner at Grandma's, one of my favorite restaurant in Raffles City Mall, and then went for a walk down City Link Mall towards Esplanade. Just outside, at the left of the open theater, we bought two tickets for the 40-mins boat cruise along Singapore River.

It was a nice evening, in fact an early Valentine's Day date with one of the most important men in my life. You can check out the map of the Singapore River here.

In the boat, you will be able to see the nice lights of Marina Bay Sands, Merlion Park, Boat Quay and Clarke Quay. Sad to say that it's something that you'd only want to do once in your life, unless the ride holds such a sentimental meaning for you and a loved one.

Collage created for some scenic views from the boat

The lights from the waterfront is truly wonderful and I was mesmerized by the way The Fullerton Hotel looked from where we were on the river. It was truly such a romantic looking hotel that I envy lovers dining there!

It's really good after recovering from a very bad flu over the long holiday weekend, and what a bummer it was, but I am so UP and running now.

In fact, I feel so wonderful today that I feel good vibes everywhere I turn. I pray for this flame to keep lighted for the rest of the year! I feeling so glittery today, in fact, I think that the whole world is a fairy tale. (Oh dear, I may be high on something)

So going back to the Singapore River Cruise experience, let me just share some tips here if you're planning to go for your own.

If you see the map, in the link above, you can see various stops that has ticketing booths. I think it's best to start from Esplanade. You can get the ticket for $20 each for adults and $10 each for children.

Why start at Esplanade, is because you have a better chance of being able to get seats at the back of the boat that has like a deck where you can sit to take lovely pictures! (At least you maximize the cost of your trip as you enjoy watching the night lights)

As the boat u-turns from Clarke Quay, you can stop at The Fullerton Hotel, and walk to the Merlion Park. There, you can take funky shots where in certain angles when you face sideways, with your mouth open, it would looks so hilarious that you're like swallowing the water sprouting from the big Merlion!

Lolo got thirsty... hihihi...

Then if you should happen by the Merlion Park about 9pm+, you should be able to enjoy an array of light display from the Marina Bay Sands opposite :)

It's wonderful sight, especially when you're out with someone who enjoys lights as much as you do.

A group of Burmese took this shot for us :)

I'm so happy to have this opportunity to bring Lolo out for some fun. Next in the agenda will be at one of my favorite pubs, Chevys. I know that they're like closing this month (this time, for real), so truly hoping that this Friday isn't too late just yet. Want to enjoy That's Life band for the last times.

Toodles for now. XO.

Our Body Knows Best

I never liked the feeling of being sick. I believe no one does. But for some reason there's a beauty in this.

When we fall sick, our body is telling us that we really truly need to cancel every plans we have and rest.

It's beautiful because it's a true form of intervention. A shove by God giving our bodies the right to overrule whatever plans we may have done for the day.

Now as I lie in bed I'm thankful for this bodily intervention. I can take the time to rest and really just stop thinking about everyone and everything else, and focus on myself.

Mum Turns 43

It's a good day on the 19 Jan when the family went for a mini staycation at Costa Sands @ Sentosa for mum's birthday celebration.

We did a 2D1N short getaway there, bringing foods, fun and laughter. Spent the day at the BBQ pit, swimming and going down to the Siloso beach for a bit of a beach walk. In the evening through midnight, we spent time talking and drinking beer and a bottle of Glennfidich for some hard.

My favourite girls came by too, my bestfriend Nurul with her boyfriend, Hafiz and soul sister Laura with her mum, Aunt Rennie.

It was a particular great day spent, small celebration but truly wonderful day for mum.

My relationship with her has been a rocky hill of up and down battles growing up, but after many nights in tears and prayers, and series of dynamics changes as well as finally accepting each others' strengths and weakness, personality and quirks, we have established a good mother and daughter relationship.

Our salvaged relationship is a testimony of prayers and complete surrender to God. I cannot be more blessed to be a Catholic because as one, I learned to ask Mother Mary to pray for us. I learned to seek her when I didn't feel my mum acted like one. I learned to seek her in my storm to ask her to pray for my mum's change of heart for me, and I choose to see Mother Mary as my spiritual and surrogate mother at the times I needed one so I didn't focus on my mum's weaknesses.

I changed because of her intercession and I became a better person in doing my best to understand my mum. I truly believed that if I do not forge a good relationship with my mum, I cannot be a good mother to my children to come.

I am blessed to have my mum, truly. She's a strong woman with high standards and morals. She is damn stubborn and she can never listen to instructions. But she loves her children selflessly.

Through the changes I see in her, I experienced a change. I also grew to be the better person that I know I can be, looking inward first before looking at the nastiness I see. Then in a quick shift, I see that I'm putting my own pride before my love for her.

There are some lapses but it's more controlled now. Very quick fights and make ups. And that's all. She also said she saw a lot of change in me and I'm glad she sees the efforts I am doing.

Next year, I want to go on a travel adventure with her to Japan. If possible, with the family too. (Mentally adding this to my bucket list).

Having a hard relationship with your parents? Try these:

1) Pray, pray, pray
2) Look inward first and be sensitive to what is causing the negativity
3) Swallow your pride and be the first to forgive
4) Apologize for your deeds
5) Focus on love

I also recommend to look at Mother Mary. To ask her for her prayers to change the hearts of your mother, mother-in-law, or whoever you have a strife with. Let her intercede for you as she is definitely closer to her Son, Jesus and a good role model of faith in God.

You don't need to suffer in your relationship, you have someone up there ready to pray for you and change hearts. Ask them, believe, trust and claim it. Do it now.

God bless!