Engaged!

He asked her and she said YES!!!

They're engaged!! And that's more than one couple!

Next year's gonna be an awesome year for weddingS.. busy busy year!

Christmas is in 2 days!!!

I've been in a christmas-sy mood all day long.. Boss told me that I could leave early tomorrow.. and as far as I know, I'm the only Christian in the office who's been let to go home early tomorrow.. Weee!

Came home and finished wrapping up 90% of the presents.. The tree is overflowing with presents this year.. last year, we didn't shop for the extended family.. but this year, parents are going back to Ipoh to celebrate Christmas so we bought gifts for all the cousins, nephew & nieces and some of my mum's siblings..

Baked some cookies with mum.. Tried to ice them, but hand was not so steady la.. so a lil crooked here and there.. so for those of you who get the crooked ones, just remember it was made with love k? haha..

Tomorrow I've just got to shop for a couple more people.. special people.. =) already have in mind what I'm gonna get them so that would be easy..

Christmas Eve dinner with parents tomorrow, then head over to Groove Junction to catch Elvira perform..

I'm excited about Christmas but not sure what it's gonna be like.. Parents are leaving to ipoh after 1st service on Friday, so I'll be alone till Sunday evening... but I'm gonna make the most of it..

Silent Night

Happy Holidayz from Jason Mraz & The Voices of Prayze from Jason Mraz on Vimeo.

APYAC

APYAC – more than 1400 delegates gathered together from 29 different nations, across Asia Pacific and the nations beyond..

It was an awesome 3-day conference.. It was a miracle that I was even able to go for it.. Signed up for it long time back during the ‘early bird’ period.. but then decided that I wouldn’t go for the conference cos I just started work and felt that it wouldn’t be good to apply for leave so soon la..

Then on the 6th Dec, we had a consecration prayer and I decided then that I would build up the courage to go and ask my boss for leave as I wanted to be blessed very much during the conference as well as be a blessing..

So about 1130am on 7th Dec, I went up to her and told her that I would like to apply leave to attend a conference during the coming weekend.. Told a few people to pray along with me..

Boss : ‘Oh, the Asia Pacific one?’

Me : Yes. How’d you know?

Boss : Oh my daughter is attending it as well. Go ahead for the conference, just keep me updated on work.

God is so super faithful man!!! Thank you for your prayers.. I really do covet them..

So then I msged a few other telling them that I could now make the conference and am able to help out in anyway needed.. PJK calls to say that she needs help in hosting the international delegates and I was blessed to host the Indonesian delegates.. about 100+ of them in total.. Worked very closely together with Amanda..

Amanda – You were awesome to work with! Enjoyed every moment of our partnership.. haha

I managed to make it for most of the sessions and was utterly blessed by it.. Loved Ps. Mike Pilavachi’s preaching (founder of Soul Survivor).. It’s so practical + superbly hilarious!!! Hopefully he would come down with his band one day..

We had the privilege of having the YAM, Indonesian & Philippines band to anchor the night sessions.. Oh my they were awesome!

YAM – You guys did good.. Especially on the last night, you ushered in the presence of God in a beautiful way..

Indo Band – You guys rock!!!

I’m so proud that I was able to play a tiny role in this HUGE conference.. Props to all the full-time staff who helped pull this conference together, especially the hosting committee.. You guys worked so hard and till the wee hours in the morning, sometimes not sleeping for days!! Know that your labour is not in vain!!

Look out for APYAC 2012!!

Do you regret your past?

I sure don't.. with the many countless mistakes I've made.. and trust me some of them were pretty darn stupid, I still don't regret them.. If it hadn't been for my past, I don't think I would have drawn closer to God.. I don't think I would have come back to Him fully..

From every one mistake that I've made, at least one lesson has been learnt..

His faithfulness endures forever and His grace and mercies are new every morning..

Awesomeness

I saw one of this on the road this morning on the way to work.. What a beauty!

Ministry Volunteers' Appreciation Dinner

Last night was Ministry Volunteers’ Appreciation Dinner.. A night where the church appreciates all the volunteers of the church who have laboured their service with love.. There were 960 of us present.. It was the first for me.. Although I’ve been serving for a number of years now, I don’t remember attending one before.. I believe I was in Ipoh last year during the dinner..

We started of the evening in Maranatha with a short but powerful session of worship.. Then a 4-piece string quartet performed ‘Great is thy faithfulness’ and ‘Father in heaven how we love you’ – it was classic! Among the performers were Peck Sun, Melissa and Boon Hong.. (never knew Boon Hong played the chello! Haha)

Then Ps. Vincent and all the other language churches gave a report on their respective churches. It was encouraging to see the number of souls saved and the way God has been blessing the language churches..

Next, the highlight of the night for me was the ‘Cardboard Testimony’.. It was something that was done in Lakewood during their Building Pledge.. We talked about it at L-cell some months back and both Roger & Thay gave us the link to go check it out.. You can watch it here..

But yesterday’s cardboard testimony by the GT-ians was somehow more meaningful for me.. I guess cos I knew most of them up on stage and was able to connect to their ‘before’ status and seen how God’s has been really doing a good work in their life and how they now wholeheartedly serve Him..

One guy’s testimony (I think he’s from the Chinese church) was:

Before : In a Prison Cell
After : Now a Cell Leader

Naledi’s was:

Before : Against the idea of International Cells
After : International Cell Zone Leader

I was so touched by the testimonies of so many of them.. How God’s transformed them into beautiful man and woman of God.. Couldn't help but tear a lil..

Dinner.. Ah dinner.. so not what I expected.. It was a 10-course Chinese sit-down dinner.. The food as many would agree was so much better than some of the wedding dinners I’ve been to.. It was a great experience as well to be able to see most of the Africans eating fish, prawns, crab, shark fins soup, other types of seafood and the desserts for their VERY FIRST TIME.. The internationals at my table loved it!! But some other Bots, didn’t really enjoy it..

Black one this time..

I got me a new car.. After the Bestari 206 fell through, dad told me to buy the latest Myvi... I was pretty reluctant at first cos didn't wanna be jumping into any rash decisions after what happened..

But anyway, I went and saw the car, both my parents viewed the car as well. So funny - we all checked it out at different times; dad in johor, me near my house and mum later on.

It's a good deal la.. Cos my uncle will be buying the current Myvi that I'm driving and he's giving us like way more than I'll get if I sell to someone else or a 2nd hand car dealer..

So we'll get about 5-6k in hand after selling the current car to my uncle, just pay a wee bit more in installments every month for the new car and I get a brand new car.

Dad's pretty bummed that I didn't tender for the number 282.. Fell that I would just save on that $$. We've had like 7 cars with the plate 282 and after many years this would be the first car to change the cycle.. (with the exception of that one car la).

The sales lady called and said that the car would be ready on Thursday.. What a gift huh? =)

Judge not.. only support

Had a heart-to-heart chat with 2 of my girlfriends sometime last week.. We were just suppose to have dinner to catch up but it turned out to be a sleepover.. sharing our hearts till the wee hours of the morning over tim-tams (that i curi-ed from someone, shhh lol) and kopi-o..

I shared with my girls something that I've never shared with anyone else before.. something that I've been keeping to myself for years.. Something that brings tears to my eyes and such heartache EVERY TIME I think about it.. It was such a struggle to have been going through it alone for so long.. But I thank God that as I shared it, there was such a release..

Trust. That was the only reason I was able to open up. I trusted my girls lots and decided to just unload on them.. They did not judge.. They did not condemn.. They did not look down on me.. They did however encourage, support and prayed along..

From past mistakes and life circumstances, I too have learnt to not be quick to judge on others.. That we are only human, that we too fall at times and it is in our weakness that God's strength may be glorified..

It took me a long while to trust them to be able to open up like that.. in fact, I surprised myself as well at how much I did say because I'm pretty selective on the people I speak to about my life as well as details of it..

But I guess God has his appointed time la... and it was high-time that I did speak about it.. Couldn't hold it in any longer or I would have become worse dwelling in it..

Girls:
Thank you for not judging.. Thank you for your support.. I covet your prayers.. May God continue to use our lives to minister to others.. Love you loads!! xoxo

I feel so loved

It's my last day today at Sun-U.. time's passed by really fast.. I think I'm gonna miss this place lots mainly cos of the friendships that's been formed.. No doubt I'm gonna be keeping in touch with many of them here..

Got so many goodies for my farewell.. Countless farewell lunches and dinners these pass 2 weeks.. Pressie from both the admin & academic staff.. In fact, just earlier today, there was a pretty little pink bag on my table with a card.. and inside was a cute figurine from Elizabeth.. For lunch today, the staff from not only my department but also from ADTP and Registry took me out to Ginger Tree (my uncle's a chef there) and belanja me makan kau kau.. So full wei now I feel like sleeping.. lol..

Thought I'd paste some of the notes from emails that I received from friends I made here in the past 3 months..

Dear Michelle,

We wish you a wonderful journey towards your dreams - and we know all your wishes and dream will come true.
You are a wonderful person and it has been my greatest pleasure to get to know you in the past three months. How time flies.

I wish you all the best in your new venture!

all the very best,
soo beng

Dear Michelle,

All the best in your new job =)

. . . wishing you blue skies and all things nice ;-)

Regards,

Julia Chan
...see you at Facebook and when you next visit Sun U ya =)

Dear Michelle,
Thanks for the smiles, the help and everything else... we will miss you dearly... :)
All the best in your future undertakings
Keep in touch facebook

God Bless :)
Derek

You're leaving so soon? Didn't know till this morning ... so sad. Well, glad to get to know you and all the best, ya? Do stay in touch!God bless, and see you!In Him,Shannon

Yo..Yo.. Michelle, Its our lost, you are hoping off, but, hey hey hey.. Its our greatest gift, just having you around (even for just 3months).Will surely miss you and your mirror (grin).All the best to you and keep in touch. Big Hugs,Madeline

Dear Michelle,

I may be new in the school but your warm greetings and helpful gesture on the first day I came in has definitely left a deep imprint in my mind. I wish you all the best in your future endeavour.

Regards,
Caroline

Dear Michelle,
May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of his hand. ~Irish BlessingRegards
Nagiah

Hi Michelle,

Please drop by School of Business when you’re free (especially my room J).

Thanks for the excellent help and we will miss you, definitely!

All the best to you!

Regards,
- Sophia -

Hi Michelle,

Thanks for the departing note. I really appreciate it.
I pray that the Lord’s presence and His mighty hand of protection over you and in all your future endeavors. Gives good health and be filled with His wisdom and strengthen you so that you shall be a shinning star in your new work place.

Take care and God Bless you.

My love and regards to your Mum and Dad.

Chow,

Uncle Simon.

Hey we gonna miss you….if it is for greener pastures, hopefully for further studies, good luck and all the best even if it is otherwise. Jesilin

It has been a privilege having you as a colleague. We will miss you but we wish you all the best in your future endeavours. We will await your eventual return to the Sunway familyJ. In any case, we will be in touch via FB. Not yet into Twitter though. Cheers. Dr. Foo

Dear Michelle,

Sigh! We barely know each other…., As Mr. Nagiah would say, WHYyyyyy? Parting is suppose is such sweet sorrow when it is for a friend who wants to conquer
greater heights! Till we see you again as a full-time colleague, adieu mon ami.

Regards,

Cheah YS

Good luck to you Michelle. And thanks for helping us out.

Khong

I feel so loved =)

Gotto get back to work now.. Being my last day here, wanna try and do as much as I can for Emily & Amelia before I leave to lighten their workload.. They've got a peak season coming up..

Movie Review: This is it

I was not big on wanting to watch Michael Jackson's "This is it". Friends who've watched all raved about how great the show was saying it'll be a shame if you missed it..

So finally decided to go watch it last Sun since I had some kaki to go with.. Oh my! IT WAS AWESOME!!! This guy was like 50 years old and he can still move so great.. My fav song was 'Beat it'.. Also liked one of the last song he sang, can't remember the name.. he wore this purple shirt and was dancing alone on stage.. Nice!

This dude has like a whole different tune going on in his head..

It also gave me an insight on how humble he is..

Next movie I wanna watch - Time Traveler's Wife

She's back!!

Isn't it beautiful how God works things out for us..

Last weekend my friend went to confirm a certain package.. Previously she was told that she should come back before the end of the month to enjoy the promotion that was being offered.. The sales lady however forgot to mention that it was only for the first 10 customers and my friend didn't make that bracket..

So she went back last weekend to book a similiar package and she received above and beyond what she thought she would be getting.. They're so blessed!!

I've been trying to get the Naza Bestari 206 for some months now, since August actually.. but there's been so many hiccups..

First, they ran out of stock
Then, my dad's car dealer friend managed to get stock
Then, my loan wouldn't be approved cos I just started work
After a long process of trying all sorts of means, my loan got approved
Now, the car's gone again!!

My dad's friend had already placed a booking fee but they say that it depends on a first-come-first-serve basis..

Last night and this morning I was just thinking about the car and told God that if this is your will, grant me favor but if it's not, then please close the door and give me peace within..

Just about 5 minutes ago, the lady called me and told me that the car's totally out of stock.. No chance in getting it AT ALL!!!

I just replied, 'Oh, I see.. it's ok then.. Thank you so much..'

"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

Never shortchanged

Dad called me yesterday while I was out and told me that I had a letter from Affin Bank.. That was so weird cos I don't remember having any dealings with them so I told him to open the letter..

Guess what!!

I won RM100 from Affin!!! Weeeeee!!!

It's in form of a savings account though, but.. it's still $$$

Then I remember sometime back I entered a lucky draw when I was at the Curve..

I was just telling someone the other day, I'm gonna be really pokai this month cos there's just so many different expenses + birthdays + dinners.. Then God blesses me with this.. I also just remembered bout my claims at Sun-U which I can collect next week..

"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." Luke 6:38

Continue to be faithful in your giving + tithes.. It's not the amount that you give, but the heart.. God loves a cheerful giver and He will never shortchange you.. I've been taught from young that no matter how hard it is, to always be disciplined in giving of tithes + offerings.. and I've NEVER been shortchanged! Try it!

It's been a beautiful week..

Had an awesome start to the week.. Fresh start in the mornings everyday, although on some nights I slept so late and so didn't feel like waking up in the morning..

I'd dragged myself outta bed after snoozing the alarm for the 5th time.. take my shower & get all pretty, eat my half boiled kampung egg, do my devo and spend time with my Father in the car.. and walah! I'm all fresh!

I only have 10 working days left here.. Lord let me make the most of it.. Use me Use me Use me to share your love to those around me..

** Oh I'm so grateful cos I nearly met with an accident yesterday on the highway.. all the cars in front of me were braking so hard and I was so close to being in a back-to-back car crash! But He protected me and my car.. Thank you Jesus!

Now it's back to work.. Gonna get me a cuppa of coffee and be productive..

Last day at Sun-U

I submitted my letter of resignation last Monday. My last day at Sun-U will be on the 16th Nov then I start my job at CIMB on the 19th Nov.

Was sharing with my buddy earlier how I was pretty unsettled about accepting the job at CIMB. The interview process for CIMB was SO LONG and in between I went for interview at another company. Prayed and told God that if that job is not for me, to not let it go through. That company didn't call back.

I thanked God for His clarity but I was a lil bummed as I had my heart kinda set on that job. Preferred that job description more, it paid better, company was also very established. But I guess God has His plans and His plans are definitely way higher and way wiser than mine.

So with that assurance I now have peace in my heart bout working at CIMB. I know God has a plan and purpose for me there.

I have to admit I'm a lil excited + nervous to work at CIMB cos I know it's gonna be a totally different environment. Have to continue to draw strength from Him.

Happy Birthday Jamilah!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AIM!!!

I'm gonna so so miss you man! Sigh! Would elaborate more but you'd kill me.. haha..

Love you to bits!

It's happening again..

It started last night.. slight pain when I chewed..

This morning, woke up with throbbing pain..

It's trying so hard to push its way out from under my gums..

Ouch!

Happy Birthday Katrika!

Jessica plays many roles in my life.. A sister, cousin, friend, partner-in-crime, masak-masak playmate.. In a family of 24 cousins, Jess is the only one who shares my age.. Growing up as an only child, she was like really the person I would go to for everything..

I remember we used to write each other letters when we were young cos we couldn't call each other.. I still have all those letters.. She would make me pretty cards for my birthdays and Christmas.. haha when we were younger, we would put glitter and stickers on the cards and letters to 'soup' it up..

25 years later, we are still as close as ever, if not closer..

I love you girl.. May God continue to mould and shape you into the woman of God He has called you to be.. I pray that He grants your inmost heart's desires.. Even as you venture into this new business, may He grant you favor with your customers, partner and most of all with Him.. Continue to commit everything into His hands and He will make straight your path..

You've been a great joy and blessing to me.. Love you Pandee!!

She looked like a princess..

I followed S yesterday to go check out bridal gowns and packages.. It's truly a joy to be able to be apart of their wedding planning cos they're one of my favourite people and I'm really looking forward to the day they say 'I do'.. So when she asked me if I would help her out with her wedding, I went YES OF COURSE!!!!

We went to 3 different bridal shops yesterday and the deal that was offered to her got better with every shop.. She tried on many dresses.. and oh my, she looked like a princess!!! The three of us we oooh-ing and aahh-ing every time she stepped out in a pretty little white number.. She managed to try on all the different styles and we gave her our thoughts on which style best suited her..

It was a fruitful 3.5 hours spent.. In the last shop, we even got to meet this really pleasant sales lady which let her try on as many dresses as she wanted.. which was superbly cool cos the other shops only let her try bout 2-3 dresses..

There was another bride trying on dresses there and oh my, her taste was just.. erm different.. She chose all the dresses that we would have never ever even given a second look.. Okok I got to stop being so mean.. =P

Anyway, let's not get off track.. back to S.. she looked gorgeous in all the dresses.. I had my eye on one dress in one of the shops.. she tried on that particular style, not the same dress but the same style and it was by far my favourite for her..

Groom's gonna be so wow-ed when she walks down the aisle.. hehe..

ChaCha Anyone?

After 2 weeks of being absent from dance class, I dragged myself to class last Monday.. They had completed Jive and was now in Cha Cha..

Being honest, I didn't feel like going for the class.. a) cos I was still not feeling a 100% b) hmm, I also dunno la guess I just wasn't in the mood..

There were 6 of us on Monday (not sure where the rest hilang to) and the figure was just right.. 3 guys 3 girls..

Surprisingly, I enjoyed myself very much during the class.. Had a good time dancing with all of them that we even stayed back after to 'practice'.. haha I think I'm one of the slowest in the class compared to the rest and also one of the youngest.. There're like 2 grandfathers and they moved so well haha.. They pick up really fast and lead the lady really good as well... I didn't join them for their beginner classes so had lots to pick up plus although the technique is somewhat the same (I mean, it's Cha Cha, how different can you be) but the technique of teaching is different.. I kinda prefer this teacher.. She's really professional and she's clear in the teaching and movements..

So yea, I'm looking forward to next Monday.. It's sad though that they don't teach Salsa in Bronze level.. Me like to Salsa.. =)

Trust

"God is my refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble"
Ps 46:1

Lord I commit this season into your hands.. Help us get through it Lord.. We look to you to be our refuge and strength.. our ever-present help in trouble.. Please Father, make a way where there seems to be no way.. We put our trust and hope in you.. Thank you Lord that You will see us through..

ALL Food Comes From India

Test was (-)ve

Went to work early this morning but headed home after 2 hours.. My body just felt so weak and boss told me to go home and rest..

Local GP told me to take the H1N1 test, a simple nose swab which cost RM50 and the results were out in 15 minutes..

PTL!! The results were negative..

Doc gave me MC for today and tomorrow and told me to rest lots..

I feel kinda bad for abandoning my co-workers at such a peak time at office.. Been away from office the whole week but I guess it's best for me to not be around then to spread the bug to the rest.. Nothing would get done then..

In the clear

I think I've been pushing myself a little too much these past 2 weeks.. Hardly got any rest and it finally took a toll on me.. I fell sick last Sunday on the way back from Chamang waterfalls.. Paid 3 visits to the doctor in 3 days, got a stronger dose of antibiotic but I seem to be getting worse instead of better..

With the scare of the H1N1 flu going around, I decided to go get tested.. Headed down to the government clinic @ Sg. Buloh this morning.. Spent a good 2.5 hours waiting to see the doctor for only 5 minutes..

PTL!!! Doc cleared me and said I didn't have to do the test as I don't have ALL the symptoms.. the test is limited and expensive so they don't perform it on everyone.. She told me to continue on my antibiotic and just get lotsa rest+water..

Looking forward to heading home to rest, guess what happened.. MY CAR WOULDN'T START... and to make things worse, my phone battery was dying cos I forgot to charge it last night.. Manage to make a call to mum to get AAM to come over to help.. Waited for about 1 hour cos the guy went to Subang instead of Sg. Buloh.. Turns out it was my car battery that 'kong' which really puzzle me cos I just changed it like one month back.. Anyways, we still had the warranty for it, so the lady just change a new battery for us..

Now it's off to Zzzzzz..

Decisions

I've been working in Sunway for about a month and a half now.. Working here so far has been great, God's granted me favor with my colleagues and bosses, I manage to clear all my work usually by 530pm so I don't have to stay back..

However, I've got decisions to make.. Do I choose more $$ and less stress or less $$ but more experience??

Won't elaborate more here just yet, but once I do make my decision then I'll post up..

Do pray along with me? That I'll make the right choice and have the peace of God..

Scored!

I just won 6 movie passes to go watch 'The Ugly Truth'... Woohoo!!! I'm not really sure what the story's about but since it's free.. I look forward to find out..

Also won 2 T-shirts worth RM400.. I believe it's a couple's T-shirt.. the him/her kinda.. too bad me don't have a 'him' yet..

Tea anyone?

After 2 years of planning, we finally made it to watch the Tea Master... It was a rare reunion at the YA Retreat for ex Sect 5 cellies.. so we decided that it was time to plan the dinner.. Thanks to Ms. Organizer aka Sue Ling.. It was also a farewell dinner for Shannon who's leaving to the UK next week for a year to do his Masters.. (He's told me like 10 times in what area, but for the life of me, I just can't remember)..

Enjoy the videos from Mei Fong, apologies in advance cos you'll need to strain your neck for a couple of them.. hehe..



** Sue Ling's thinking of mastering this art.. SL - it takes only 0.5 yrs and not 8 yrs.. haha



** There was no one naked!



** Liang serenades us with a song..



** Shannon tries very hard to give his speech.. and you see Sue Ling 'trying' to handle the camera..



** Shannon's speech that he formed with the fortune cookies..

We also managed to do some 'hooking' up.. Listen closely to the videos..

I do hope we don't take another 2 years for the next dinner..

Jaziel Micah Johnson

Presenting to you..

JAZIEL MICAH JOHNSON

He was only 2 days old when this picture was taken.. At the age of 4 days, Jaziel was admitted in the hospital as they found a tumor in his neck and throat.. According to doctors, the tumor was very large. A biopsy was then performed to find out the nature of the tumor..

Praise God, 2 days ago, the results were released and it was benign. God is awesome!! The Lord has a purpose for this boy and he still has a long way to go.

My cousins, Jeremy & Melissa continue to put their trust in the Lord through this tough ordeal and God has seen them through.. He's now 27 days old and healthy..

I love this pic!! He's looking up at his atteh and smiling.. Awww...

Refreshed!

We just got back from the YA Retreat themed '24'.. and I'm so blessed!!!

A team of 7 of us got together only 7 weeks before camp to plan for this retreat. It was truly God's favor that got us through as we had very little time to come together to organize. I had a lot of fun being on the team and I must say, "we planned out a pretty awesome camp" hahaha (only by God's grace of course!!!!).

PGC suggested Serai di Lanjut to be the camp site and I'm glad that we chose that place. I really like the venue. THE BEACH WAS FABULOUS.

God was already moving powerfully before the camp. There had been divine visitations both in the pysical and spiritual. The purpose of this camp was to have"24" hours of REST, RELAX & REFRESH in the presence of God. I personally was preparing myself and expectating Him to move.

I came to a point in life where I was just too busy with my schedules and plans and this affected my time alone with God and at times my relationship with Him..

I went to camp desperate to meet with God and receive from Him..

And as usual, God did not disappoint..

Even on the first night, there was such an outpouring of His spirit and presence. He spoke to me in a way that I didn't expect. I've been praying for a couple of things for sometime, and on the last session, on that Tuesday morning, He spoke and said that He has heard my prayers and in time it will come to past..

"Thank you Lord that You pen my calendar. That every aspect/day/month/year of my life is taken care of as You see and know the bigger picture. Thank You Lord that it will be filled with gifts and pleasant surprises."

I learnt the simplicity of just coming back to Him and waiting at His feet.. Lord, You are so awesome!

This is just a bit of how I've been blessed at camp. (Ask me if you wanna know more hehe). I'm glad that I chose to be a part of this camp and a part of the committee.

Do not miss out on the next camp!! I would encourage everyone of you to make it. God wants to bless you & speak into your life.

** Didn't take many pictures at camp. =( Have to go tag myself in pictures taken by the rest! lol.

I love..

Some weeks back, Weng Yan aka Beeboo shared the passage below with the cell. She took it from Bobbie Houston's blog. It was such an encouragement to me at that time and hope it would encourage you as well.

• I love the thought of us ALL being WORLD CHANGERS!!
• I love the thought that God considered us ALL unique & special enough to plant us at such a crazy/wonderful time in history.
• I love the thought that in doing so, He would have invested unique gift and measure within ALL of us so that we could fulfil that planting.
• I love that He is no respector of persons and invites us all.
• I love that He will use any willing heart that is, well willing.
• I love that we don't have to impress Him.
• I love that we can come as we are.
• I love that He specialises in people who think they are pathetic, but really aren't.
• I love that He is gentle and patient and persistent in shaping us into what He knows we can become.
• I love that He is not freaked out at the state of the world.
• I love that He is calm.
• I love that He has a plan.
• I love that He considers us capable to carry His heart and make a difference.
• I love that He can take the likes of you and I and make us ALL WORLD CHANGERS IN ONE WAY OR ANOTHER.
• I love that no one is excluded and that we each have an individually distinct world to focus on friends, family, workmates, street, church, community and all those beautiful strangers who so often slide across our paths unseen, unnoticed.

So agree with me as I write this on a wintery afternoon in Sydney... there's a world to love, a world to influence, a world to pray for. Don't diminish your part, don't stress over how it will all pan out and don't wonder how and where to find the will of God.

Rest in His love, rest in His providence, rest in His promise, be faithful with what is important and non-negotiable in His Word, find a need, make a stand, put your hand up, stay at your post and trust me, the rest will take care of itself.

So why DO NOT DISTURB, WORLD CHANGER AT REST?

Because all world changers need reminders... rest in His grace, rest in His enabling, rest in His Spirit, rest that He is well able to complete what He has begun.

"Not by might, not by power, but by my Spirit," says our God. Our strength can carry us so far, but His Strength will carry us all the way.. and then BEYOND what we could ever hope or imagine.

Praying that each and every one of us will learn the art of 'labouring from a place of REST".

Work's been good thus far..

It's my 3rd day at work..

First day was rather boring cos there was a new intake, so it was just orientations all the way.

Second day was hectic but I enjoyed it very much. We had like over 100 students come with their VARIOUS problems..

3rd day is a little slower.. as you can see I have time to blog.. hehe.. but nevertheless still fun..

Leaving today a little earlier to go for another appointment..

God's been awesome to me!!! This job is really a blessing in more ways than one.. Not at liberty to blog all about it here but if you wanna know.. ask me.. hehe..

Now officially a YA

Wow it's been ages since I last posted..

I've cut my hair!!! hehehe.. Preferred my long hair but just had to chop it off cos the split ends were just uncontrollable.

Praise Report - God's been so good to me. As I was waiting for my results, I was so sure that I was going to graduate with a Second Class Lower but when I went to take my certificate, I was surprised to read..

University of East London

It is hereby certified that

Michelle Melissa Foo

having duly satisfied all prescribed conditions was on 25 June 2009
duly admitted to the degree of

Bachelor of Arts with Second Class (Upper Division) Honours

having followed an approved Honours programme in

Business Administration

** Of course they had to spell Record as Reecord on the certificate... Sigh! So now I'll need to wait for a new certificate..

I've had about 2 months of holiday + traveling so it's high time that I find a job and start earning some $$$.. haha...

I've sent out my application to quite a number of companies and have gone for several interviews as well. Will post more about it later..

New Look

I visited the hair saloon today and decided it was time for a haircut and a new look..

I'm pretty happy with it.. Although I think I look a lil fatter with my hair short..

It's been ages..

since I've updated my blog.. So much has happened since..

• I've finished my studies
• In the midst of looking for a job
• Attended a couple of weddings
• Went for a relaxing holiday in Sabah
• Continued with my cross-stitch
• Watched season 1-4 of 24
  
• and just came back from diving in Redang

I'm sure there's much more that happened but I can't seem to remember them now.. lol..

I feel so so tired today.. All I wanna do is SLEEP!!!

Just got back from Redang last night, and it was truly an awesome holiday. I managed to clock 7 dives, which is just superb for me k, cos previously I had so many problems when it came to descending when I dive, but this time I thought I was pretty good hehe. We went to RedangKalong,which in my opinion has one of the best dive masters and instructors. The owner of the place, AB Lee was nice enough to even take us hiking up his favourite spot on our last day there (Pictures attached in the link below).

Just uploaded lotsa different picture onto Facebook.. Some are way overdue.. Check them out!

• Hwee Yen's Birthday
  
• Weng Yan's Affirmation
• Danee's Wedding
• Cell Leaders' Retreat
• Diving in Redang
  

There's still another album that I've yet to upload which is the Sabah trip.. Need to get those photos from Roger/KF first.. hehe..

Do pray along with me as well I look for the right job. There has been one offer so far but I'm still thinking and praying about it. Will update more when I decide.

Okies, enough for today.. Wanna continue uploading some more pics, then catch Final Break, Prison Break on dvd then SLEEP!!!!

We R The Reason

A lil late to be posting this video up but it was one of my fav..

Made 2 Love

Bring your friends for M2L this 26th June, 830pm..

Fathers' Day Presentation

Penang

I just got back from Penang yesterday.. Actually more like Butterworth cos we stayed at Uncle Alfie's house.. Attended Danee's wedding on Sat night.. Still find it hard to believe that she's married.. She's still like such a baby to us..

Melissa took us to all the good spots to eat in Butterworth - Pokok Ceri Pasembor, Mee Goreng and Mee Rebus.. a small stall that only opens at night selling Char Kuey Teow.. Satay Rojak buah (this one was just addictive)..

Bought a dvd - Kabhi Kushi Kabhi Gham and we watched it from 1230am to 4am.. It wasn't the first time we were watching it (hmm ok maybe Joel being the exception lol).. So it was really fun as we could remember most of the dialoges.. singing along to the songs.. laughing at the jokes even before it was played.. That was the first night!!

On the second night, after the wedding.. we got back home, changed and headed over to Penang.. Took the ferry and it was really nice.. I have not been on the ferry to Penang in many years.. (It was the first time for Joel, lotsa first for him on this trip lol).. We then drove along Gurney and finally decided to chill at Bukit Ferringhi, at this really secluded spot.. There was a bistro there by the sea.. we chilled there for a couple of hours.. with the waves crashing, under the blanket of sky and stars, with the swaying of the coconut trees.. All us girls wore our heels there cos we didn't know initially where we would be going.. haha.. Had to take off our shoes as we definitely couldn't walk on the sand with them..

After chilling there, we headed over at 330am to Nasi Kandar Beratur (where you literally have to beratur for your nasi kandar).. Hmm I didn't think the food was all that good.. I've tasted better nasi kandar in PJ but the experience was nice..

On this trip as well was the first time I heard my nephew, Jerome say my name.. Ma che teh which stands for Michelle Atteh.. hehe..

So that was the end of my Penang trip.. Short but truly fun and memorable.. Will try to post up pics soon..

Mystery Fruit

Drop me a comment if you know What I am and What I taste like?

Hannah Plays Sandy in Grease

My niece Hannah was recently in a play for her school, Grease. She played Sandy which is one of the main characters in the production. I'm so proud of her. She dressed in a pretty white dress with green trimmings.

Grease was released in 1978 and made popular by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John.

Coming Your Way

MADE 2 LOVE

Free Movies @ Tropicana Mall this 20-23 June 09

FREE Movie Screening @ GSC Tropicana City

Get yourself acquainted first with the new 1,449-seater cinema which also provides two wheelchair space per hall for the physically challenged patrons as there will be a four-day free screenings for the public from this Saturday till Tues (June 20- 23) onwards.

Movies selected for the free screenings are as follows:
“Slumdog Millionaire”, “Dragonball Evolution”, “Race to Witch Mountain”, “Confessions of A Shopholic”, “Paul Bart: Mall Cop”, “Ip Man” (18SG), “Syurga Cinta” and “Ayan”.

You can easily redeem tickets for these free shows by cutting out any original GSC cinema listings via the newspaper and GSC website to exchange for two free tickets per coupon / clipping each, on a first-come first-served basis, while tickets last. Each person is limited to four tickets (maximum) and the redemption exercise will start from 10am , June 20, 2009 onwards. Redemption of tickets is limited to the movies on the same day of redemption.

No advance redemption will be entertained. Full details of the movie schedule can be downloaded from GSC website and will also be available at GSC Tropicana City.

GSC Tropicana City is located on the second floor of Tropicana City Mall and will complement the 13-screen GSC 1 Utama (New Wing) in catering to the entertainment needs in the Petaling Jaya area and beyond.

Movie fans can look forward to special giveaways like balloons, “Buy 1 Free 1″ coupons, “Buy 2 Free 1″ coupons and “Wheel of Fortune” activity during the opening weekend ( June 27- 28). With every purchase of a GSC regular or large combo with F & N Coca-Cola drinks, GSC patrons will be rewarded with a complimentary can drink, while stocks last.

Info from ShoppingnSales

Heidi and Spencer's on The View

Seriously!!! What are these people thinking???

A modern version of Mother Theresa????

This is SOOOOOOO Sad!

Al Roker Grills Spencer & Heidi

Tony Roma's

Save your receipts when you dine at Tony Roma's cos you'll be able to get a RM10 rebate on your next visit with a minimum spending of RM30. Of course before that you'll need to go online and complete a super simple survey that will take you less than 2 minutes to complete.

Mum and I were invited yesterday for a surprise dinner for Karen Bristol at Tony Roma's. Her daughter and husband were the ones organizing and were so nice to invite us.

We had a lovely time chatting and eating.. Ordered 2 whole 13-inch platter which included 20 ribs and 4 sides.. We also had an onion loaf to go along.. I don't really fancy onions but this onion loaf was definitely the bomb.. The birthday girl also got a voucher as her pressie for a free onion loaf on her next visit..

The manager was also nice enough to give us a 10% discount on our bill as I was not able to complete the survey to get the RM10 rebate.. There was something wrong with the site as I was trying to log on.. So not only can I use the receipt again in future, but we got a 10% discount on our meal which turned out to be 3 times better..

Lotsa exciting happenings at Tony Roma's this and next month.. As we were waiting for the birthday girl to arrive, mum and I took our time reading all the promos at our table..

Tony Roma's 13-inch Bountiful Beef Ribs Platter Challenge - Eat all 10 ribs under 10 minutes and stand a chance to win Eating Free for a whole year at TR.

July 4th TR Buffet - for the first-time ever, enjoy TR's buffet spread with tasty items as well as their SUPER DUPER DELICIOUS WORLD CLASS BEEF RIBS.. free flow of drinks including beer, soft drinks and juices.. Priced at RM47++ for adults and RM27.50++ for children...

It may sound like I'm really promoting TR here.. But if you've tried their Ribs.. then you'll know exactly what I mean..

Tired

I'm leaving for CLR tomorrow.. There's still so much to do..

I haven't packed..
Didn't make it for the fishing trip tonight as well..
I feel like I'm falling sick again.. need to rest la.. I think I'll just sleep early tonight and wake up early tomorrow to pack..

I'm excited about CLR.. Am really preparing myself / heart to receive from God..

Lord I want a brand new encounter with you.. renew to me my first love with you..
Take me to new heights, new depths and new levels with you..
Let me not come back the same..

High Res Copy

Relaxing in Ipoh

Idly or E Der Lee

LOL! My dad was back at my auntie's house and she was cooking him dinner.. Chicken curry and Idly.. so my dad was just texting me on what he was having for dinner..

"Dinner was great! Perema just cooked chicken curry and e der lee for me"

I laughed out so loud.. Read it to my cousins and we just were laughing and laughing..

Second day in Ipoh today.. Yesterday was a super tiring day.. We left the house around 945am.. drove up to Camerons and then down to Ipoh.. I was driving the whole way and way just 'out' by the time I reached Ipoh.. But still pulled myself up to take my nephew to the park and even made a trip to the bride's house..

For the past few months I've been so busy with assignments and just studying for exams that I haven't spent enough time with my nephew.. How much I have missed! He is so so chatty nowadays and repeats everything you say, so much so that we have to be so careful in what we says.. cos he picks up so easily..

Will update more later.. now gonna eat some mangosteens..

MERDEKA!

I'm done with classes!
I'm done with assignments!
I'm done with exams!

Today was my last and final day at uni. God has indeed been so good to me. I studied quite last minute, but He was so good that I was able to answer most of the questions which came out although today's paper was a little tougher than Monday's one. But I have faith that I will do well.

I was just thinking back and realised that throughout my exam, most of the days He would grant me car park outside where I only need to pay like 50 cents an hour as compared to parking inside which is RM2 an hour. Today I had to park inside though but nevertheless am grateful for all the other times of cheap car park! It's a big deal for me!

I should be getting my results in July..

Right now, there's just so much to do already. My schedule for the next couple of months are pretty tight:-

May 29 - Cameron Highlands
May 29-31 - Ipoh for Julie's wedding
May 31 - Fuad & Shahie's wedding
May 31 - Influence Meeting
May 31 - *C* Tea Party
June 4-6 - Cell Leaders' Retreat @ PD
June 5 - Presentation @ Uni
June 7-10 - SABAH!
June 19-21 - Penang for Danee's wedding
June 27-29 - Penang with the girls
July 4 -David & Liz's wedding
July 5 - Worship Team Pool Party
July 17-19 - Diving in Redang
July 24-Aug 2 - INDIA!

So many weddings!! Need to sort out the dresses/sarees I'm gonna be wearing..

Kris Allen leads God Of This City

Check out this video of Kris Allen (winner of American Idol) singing God of This City

From the video it looks like Kris Allen is leading worship in a service. Check it out . . .

God of This City is a song by Bluetree, but made famous by Chris Tomlin & the Passion band.

Click PLAY below or click here

GOD OF THIS CITY

[Verse 1]
You’re the God of this City
You’re the King of these people
You’re the Lord of this nation
You are

[Verse 2]
You’re the Light in this darkness
You’re the Hope to the hopeless
You’re the Peace to the restless
You are

There is no one like our God
There is no one like our God

[Chorus]
For greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this City
Greater thing have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this City

Mum featured in The Star

A write up on mum's cake making and her cookbook was featured in today's The Star. Remember this post, we thought that the article would be featured in Flavours Magazine but instead it was released in The Star which is even superb. Nearly everyone reads The Star as compared to Flavours. Mum's phone has been ringing off the hook the whole day since morning! I had to even drive her around as there were just so many calls coming in.

Some have been calling to ask if mum gives lessons, but mum says that if they buy the book, she won't mind teaching them and guiding them through some of the recipes - fondant icing, flower paste etc. I told mum that she should just charge them for the classes but she said it's ok. She remembers when she was much younger how she just looked high and low for people to teach her all this but it was just either too expensive and or she was not able to find teachers. So she resorted to learning all that she knows now mainly from books. So nice rite? And here I was just thinking of another way to make some $$$. Mum says that it'll be a good opportunity to reach out. Must really learn this attitude from her.

It's only 3.30pm and mum has already gotten about 3 confirmed wedding cake orders and countless inquires on wedding cakes, one lady's even coming this evening to the house to see the patterns and order her wedding cake. Not to mention, mum's confirmed selling quite a number of her books. Someone even called in the morning to ask if he could get her to re-print 3000 books for a certain project. Mum was not sure if it was a prank or someone who was genuinely interested. So she told him that when he calls back, to speak and get more information from my dad.

Many old friends from school and church saw mum's picture and called her. Some of whom she has lost contact with. Mum is so grateful for this opportunity. Thank you Ps Linda for the contact! Read on below for the write-up..

Tuesday May 26, 2009

Keen on cakes

By MAJORIE CHIEW

Esther Foo’s fruit cakes have stood the test of time; they still taste good after 12 years.

MOST of us can’t imagine eating cakes that are months old. But Esther Foo’s wedding cakes are so special that they’re still being eaten after 12 years.

And the verdict? “Yummy!”

“Yup, that’s what I’ve been told,” says Foo, from Kota Damansara, Petaling Jaya. Foo who is in her 50s, bakes with a passion. Once, she baked 11 cakes weighing a total of 32kg and assembled them into multi-tiered wedding cakes. The bride, a close friend, kept leftover cakes in the freezer and ate them year after year.

Foo recalls: “Several years ago, she called to tell me that it was delicious even though it’s 12 years old!”

The fruit cakes can keep well for so long because they have brandy and rum in them, says Foo. And they are well-stored to withstand the test of time.

Foo’s niece, Carmen Leo, is another happy customer.

In 1997, Foo baked Leo’s wedding cake. A sentimental person, Leo not only kept the flower paste decorations but was so taken with the fruit cake that she wanted to keep it for as long as possible.

“Last June, Leo called to say that the wedding cake was still delicious. Come June, she will be cutting a few slices to savour on her 12th wedding anniversary!” says Foo.

She is amused that her niece wanted to break the record by keeping her wedding cake for her 13th wedding anniversary.

What about Foo’s own wedding cake?

“I baked a three-tiered wedding cake but it’s all gone,” quips Foo.

Foo first learnt to bake during domestic science class in Methodist Girls School, Ipoh. At 18, Foo baked her first wedding cake.

“It was for my second brother’s wedding. The cake had three tiers and was covered with white royal icing.”

A garland of flowers made from flower paste on a three-tier dummy cake.

Today she bakes frequently: breads, cakes and cookies. Occasionally, she gets orders for wedding and birthday cakes, and other special-occasion cakes, mostly from friends.

“I enjoy baking as I derive pleasure from experimenting with new things,” says Foo.

Friends who know her well book her up to one year in advance to make their wedding cakes.

Come July, Foo will be making a two-tier wedding cake that will be covered with real red roses, and an additional seven large 5kg cakes that will be cut up and distributed among guests.

Foo likes a challenge when it comes to baking.

“The more difficult the cake design, the better for me,” she says.

She bakes her fruit cakes six weeks ahead and works on decorations for the cakes three weeks prior to the big day. Closer to the day, she would cover the cakes with fondant icing and start decorating them.

Foo picked up tips from cookbooks and took lessons in making flower paste.

“When I first started out, one customer told me that my fondant icing was too hard and could not be cut. It had too much gelatine. I started experimenting and came up with a softer fondant icing,” says Foo.

Delicious cakes without proper presentation would be a shame. So Foo doesn’t just bake and deliver the cakes, she makes sure they get noticed, too.

“I get upset when caterers do not have proper tables to display the cakes. So now I bring my own tablecloth and table just in case,” adds Foo.

Passionate about her craft: ‘The more difficult the cake design, the better for me,’ says Esther Foo.

She buys cookbooks to keep abreast of the latest techniques in baking and cake decorating. To date she has more than 200 cookbooks. Her customers get to flip through her cookbooks and make their pick before she proceeds to make their dream cakes.

A year ago, her daughter, Michelle Melissa Foo, 24, a final-year business administration student, started taking an interest in cake decoration and is learning from her.

In her younger days, Foo would help her mother with the baking. “My mum would place her cake tin in a huge pot with sand that would be heated by firewood underneath. The pot would be covered by a lid and topped with hot coals (for top heat).

“The cakes all turned out very nicely,” says Foo who is married to a Chinese. Her late father hailed from Madras, south India, and her late mother from Sri Lanka.

The second youngest in a family of 10 children (five boys and five girls), Foo moved to Kuala Lumpur in 1977. Her four sisters are all good cooks and she learns from them, too.

Foo has self-published two cookbooks containing an assortment of recipes: Simply Delightful in 2000, and Heritage Cookbook last year. Her second cookbook is selling like hot cakes. A developer recently bought 100 autographed copies to give to house buyers.

“I came out with the cookbooks to preserve family recipes that have been handed down the generations,” says Foo.

She also included recipes from her parents: Papa’s Unique Dodol, a sticky cake made from black pulut flour, coconut milk, ghee and cashew nuts, and Mama’s Toffee, a sweet treat for Christmas made with evaporated milk, castor sugar, butter and cashew nuts. Foo also included recipes which won her prizes in cooking competitions.

Esther Foo can be reached at 017-887 3177.

South African Idol Auditions

One down, one to go

I just came back from my Strategic Management exam. It was good! Walked into the hall with such a calmness and peace.. Was so touched last night and this morning as I woke up to messages from my cellies wishing me all the best for my exams.. They even sent me verses which really spoke to me.. I love you guys!

Had to answer 2 questions.. Manage to remember all that I studied for those 2 topics.. PTL!! Thank you Jesus for coming through..

Last paper on Wednesday..

Check out STAR newspaper tomorrow.. Mum's cookbook will be featured in it..

In 2 days..

I'll be sitting for my finals.. My very last papers for my degree..

25/5/09 - Strategic Management

27/5/09 - Strategic Human Resource Planning

Pray along with me?

Am I prepared? Well, I've been studying.. but I still need to read up a bit..

Lord please grant me the concentration and perseverance even I as continue reading up.. That your peace will fill my heart and wisdom fill my mind.. Help me to grasp and understand what is being read..

Interesting Read from NYT on Idol

Yes! I too am an American Idol fan. I have to say that I'm not too psyched about Kris Allen winning. My favourites of the season were Matt Giraud and Adam Lamber. Seeing that Matt only made it to top 5, my only hope left was Adam. That boy has serious talent! He can sing anything and I looked forward all season to his performances cos he's just such an awesome entertainer. But I guess many didn't think much of his screaming (or some would say shrieking) and decided to go with Kris. Oh well, I'll just wait for Adam's album.. =) But I have to say.. Kris' rendition of Kanye West's 'Heartless' was even better that the original, and they've even started playing the remix version on the radio.

'Idol’ Machine Cranks Out a New Star

By ALESSANDRA STANLEY

Published: May 20, 2009

America chose sweetness over sizzle, small-town reticence over Vegas swagger, or as Ryan Seacrest put it, the guy next door over “the guyliner.”

Kris Allen, left, performed with Keith Urban for the finale of "American Idol" in Los Angeles on Wednesday night.

It’s possible that “American Idol” viewers’ selection of Kris Allen over Adam Lambert says something about the mood and mores of the country, that viewers are too conformist to anoint a sassy, androgynous individualist. Then again, maybe not: Mr. Allen’s victory may merely reflect the voters’ conventional taste in pop music.

The choice of Mr. Allen, revealed during the two-hour finale on Fox on Wednesday night, wasn’t a breakthrough decision, even if a record 100 million votes were cast. The winsome Mr. Allen sings well, but he sounds like a lot of other good singers. Mr. Lambert, who tops his singing with a soulful screech somewhere between the blues and a smoke alarm, was like no one else.

But it isn’t necessary to seek deeper meaning in the finale; it’s the “American Idol” franchise itself that best speaks to the state of the nation.

“American Idol” matters not just as a pop culture phenomenon, but as an institution that works — with scary efficiency — at a time when so many other American enterprises seem flawed or imperiled. It stands out this season in particular: “American Idol” is a money-making machine in the middle of a worldwide recession, an old-fashioned must-see television hit at a time when the Internet and cable have eaten away at the networks’ hegemony.

It was a little sad to see all of the 13 “Idol” contestants, reunited and singing and dancing, “I Will Remember” in the service of the Ford Fusion. (Mr. Lambert and Mr. Allen each got a free car.) If only Ford could make and sell its cars as well as “American Idol” makes promotional videos to sell its sponsor, the economy might be in better shape.

The battle between Kris and Adam was one of the best, not just because these finalists were so gifted and such good foils, but because the “American Idol” engine is so fine-tuned. The finale, a two-hour exercise in delaying gratification, was as star-studded as an Academy Awards ceremony (Steve Martin, KISS, Cyndi Lauper and Keith Urban), but faster-paced and more fun.

The whole season went as smoothly. Even a feisty fourth judge, the songwriter Kara DioGuardi, didn’t disrupt the commedia dell’arte routine perfected by Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson. There were early expectations of a catfight between the two women, but most of the hissing centered on Mr. Cowell.

His digs at Ms. DioGuardi were acid — notably his disdain for the histrionic pop song “No Boundaries,” which she co-wrote and which Mr. Allen had to sing after he won. Ms. DioGuardi got her chance to upstage Mr. Cowell — and Katrina Darrell, a k a Bikini Girl — on Wednesday night. Ms. DioGuardi joined the infamous rejected contestant on stage and ripped open her dress to reveal a flash of bikini of her own — for charity, she said.

Usually, it’s Ms. Abdul’s weird behavior and odd statements that draw all the scrutiny. Ms. Abdul coyly sat out most of the season’s drama. She was so suspiciously eloquent this season that on Wednesday she was honored with a quick-edit montage of her pronouncing, with a bit of struggle, words like “instinctual” and “authenticity.”

Year after year, contestants display not just talent and poise, but a remarkable adaptability to the roles assigned to them: Mr. Allen never fell out of character as the humble, earnest country boy from Arkansas; Mr. Lambert always maintained his confident, good-humored aplomb. “American Idol” finalists stay on message in dressing rooms, airplanes and in the denouement. “It feels good,” Mr. Allen said. “But Adam deserves this.”

But it’s the relentlessness of the salesmanship that is really striking — the iTunes link, thematically appropriate promotional recaps on the Web site (“moments that made you smile” sponsored by Crest) and the seamless product placement — every pretaped scene of contestants going home is artfully positioned in front of an AT&T store. Coca-Cola is on the set (quite literally, with huge company logos as backdrops). On Wednesday, State Farm Insurance pulled out all the “American Idol” stops with a musical montage of heart-wrenching American tableaus — cancer walks, Katrina reconstruction, helping the disabled — to the tune of the Jackson 5’s “I’ll Be There.”

Yet the show’s brash commercialism is cut with “Idol Gives Back” philanthropy — appeals for donations by pop stars that last season raised more than $60 million. This season, Alicia Keys introduced a 15-year-old Rwandan rapper Noah who performed to help raise money for the Keep A Child Alive foundation.

The show is bigger than its parts. It’s a knockoff of a British talent competition that has become the apotheosis of American pop entertainment. It’s a live show so elaborately edited and overly produced that it seems taped, yet at the same time, this formulaic series still manages to look spontaneous even in its eighth iteration.

Secret Barnabas launched in Cell

We launched Secret Barnabas at cell last Friday and with just 3 days into it.. there's been 17 comments on the blog!! How super is that??

SB has really evolve in cell though with the Barnabas first blessing their Barnabee... With others just commenting on different Barnabas' posts.. It's been such a joy reading all the encouragements.. I'm happy that we've launched into it as I believe that many of the cellies' lives will be touched through it..

We're also gonna be placing a box at cell for Barnabas-es to leave their gifts for their Barnabee-s..

I hope that all my cellies will play their part and encourage their Barnabee.. so that we don't have some Barnabas-es just continously encouraging their Barnabee but not receiving any encouragement in return..

Have a read: www.stillaslame.blogspot.com

FINALE

I just submitted my FINAL assignment and attended my FINAL class today!
The feeling is just absolutely superb!!!
I've just got to study for 2 more papers:-

25/5/09 - Strategic Management

27/5/09 - Strategic Human Resource Planning

Praying for wisdom and understanding in preparing for these two papers.. Wisdom to also manage my time well.. Peace to guard my heart and favour to just go before me.. Lord prepare the way for me.. There's no way I can complete this without You.. Thank you for guiding me and bringing me through this far..

People that Make Me Smile

Took my mum out yesterday to One U to buy her her mothers' day gift or should I say gifts.. She was really happy with what she got.. =) But I know no amount of gifts would every come close to repaying all that she's every poured out for me..

In the evening, I met up with a dear friend.. I'm glad I said yes to going out with her cos it's just been too long.. She needed help to look for something.. so we had a really good time shopping and just chatting away.. I never thought that I would grow to care and love her this much.. But I thank God for bringing her into my life.. She has just been the sister I never had! =) Love you babe!

Oh and I absolutely love the movie '10 Things I Hate About You'... I know I know it's pretty random.. But I just watched it again 2 days ago after many years.. And just absolutely absolutely loved it!!!!!

I saved RM25!

I just came back from an auntie's house who makes really beautiful cards/bookmarks/paper bags etc.. Over the years she's been collecting various stamps, pens, cutters and has now quite a huge collection.. I told her that I would like to buy some cards and bookmarks from her but she said that I could just take them.. I refused and said I would pay for them.. We went back and forth for a bit and finally she said.. 'Ok la, you can have them for RM1 per piece'..

So I picked out all the cards and bookmarks I wanted.. In total I had chosen 19 cards and 26 bookmarks.. She said I'll just take RM10 from you cos these are all old stock.. She hasn't made any new ones for sometime.. We had another session of me telling her I should pay her more and her refusing.. In the end, I just paid her RM20 for them..

I collect some stamps myself.. And have a lot of different types of paper stocked up.. I used to make cards like these when I was younger.. Maybe I should do them again? Stampings' fun and it's easy.. It just cost a LOT!!!! Maybe I could just collect them a lil' at a time.. Then I won't feel the pinch..

Oh well, we'll see how it goes after I finish my studies.. I would more time on my hands then..

Maybe one of you'll receive the card/bookmark? =)

Movie Review: Star Trek & Mothers' Day

I was not much of a big Star Trek fan.. But when I heard of the remake of it, I thought.. hmm maybe I'll go and watch it.. Just for the fun of it... Mum has been a big fan for the longest time and she was really looking forward to it.. My uncle managed to get tickets for his whole family, my family and for my grandma.. I loved it!!!! I was just at the edge of my seat the whole time..

Now I'm a huge Star Trek fan!! Can't wait for Part II..

Michelle's Rating : 9.2/10.0

It's been a really nice day.. Took my mum out for high tea.. although the food at the hotel seemed to have dropped standard, I had a good time out with mum.. We also got some free pampering courtesy of the hotel..

I'm really grateful because my relationship with my mother has certainly come to a different level.. She is such a loving, supportive and amazing mother.. I love her so much!!! Not to mention, she bakes and cooks really really well!! =)

May God continue to grant your heart's desires Mummy..