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..

Secret Barnabas Cont'

More messages from my Secret Barnabas.. I so love my SB!!!

Dear Michelle...

Thanks for sharing so openly yesterday and being transparent about how you feel about serving. I'm learning so much from you and your life. Your strength and excitement is contagious. Keep it up!

Loves,
SB

Lobster & Balance

I really enjoyed L Cell today.. Am so thankful that I have such a crazy bunch of cellies who make cell all the more exciting! I love you guys!! So looking forward to that Lobster Dinner!! Woohooo!!~

Thank you for the gift SB =)

Was just reflecting on times in my life to see if I have a balance in withdrawing and welcoming..

Do I have a welcoming spirit?

Do I make time to withdraw after a victory?

Do I make time to withdraw to just be soaked in God's presence and be refreshed?

How do I create a balance if there are needs to be met in the ministry but also at home?

Oh Lord, grant me the wisdom and guide me through..

Also learnt a very important lesson.. As I continue to walk in obedience, God will release blessings and perform miracles..

Help me Lord to be obedient to You..
but sometimes, it's just so hard..

Liberation

Last Saturday, I went out to the altar.

Have been struggling for sometime in a certain area in my life. A dear cell member came up to me and prayed for me; God has given me the liberation. He has heard my tears and prayers, He was there all along..

Thank you Lord that you will never leave me nor forsake me.. Forgive me for the times I doubt your presence or hand upon my life.. Thank you for reminding me that even in those tough times, that you were right there by my side.. Thank you for this gift.. I am truly grateful.. How could I ever thank you?

So this is what liberation feels like!!

I'm a GEM!

My second SB message..

DEAREST Michelle...

You're a GEM... You're a Gift, You're a Genuine Friend... I thank God everytime I remember you in my prayers and thoughts. You've encouraged me with your strength and tenacity. See you soon again at our meeting tonight.
Love... Your SB

Drained

I'm mentally tired.. Have been working on my assignment since last night and the most of today.. Today's been a good progress.. Committed my work to the Lord and He just flooded me with points to write up on..

But after hours of looking at my screen, I'm just worn out!!

I've finished 4 out of 5 parts of my analysis.. Tomorrow I hope to finish the 5th part, conclusion and add in all the charts and graphs.. Sounds good? Hopefully I'll keep up to my target..

Class ends at 930am tomorrow.. then just need to drive mum to send some of her books and I'm left with the entire day till about 630pm before I head for dinner and Leadership Empowerment meet..

Once this assignment is completed, I have another to write up on.. Then study for 2 papers and voila!!! I'm done..

Gonna watch some tv now.. Having slight tummy ache.. Must be the rojak I had for dinner..

Black Tie or Gold Tie

I just got back from a spectacular evening..

Got invited to go for the South African Independence Day Party held at the South African High Commission @ Taman Tasik Titiwangsa..

Wow! It was just WOW!!!

It was just like in the movies.. Where you see all the different ambassadors, dignitaries and important people from all over.. Met lotsa different SA individuals who are working in various fields in Malaysia.. Saw some familiar faces.. The food served was just superb!! Different kinds of African dishes were there, desserts were just mouth-watering as well..

Ooohhh.. and the people we met.. Let's just say it was a night to remember..

I'm beat.. Gonna head to bed now.. Early class tomorrow morning.. Then another whole day of working on my assignment.. Got a little done today.. Hopefully will make more progress tomorrow..

Did you feel it?

The were tremors today while I was at class.. twice!!!

It's my 1st time feeling them and I was surprisingly calm.. Some of the students got a lil worried and thought we should have left class..

I'm so way behind on my dissertation due 8th May.. Gonna start working on it now.. Really need wisdom.. I'm having a tough time with my analysis..

Beautiful Start

Spent a beautiful morning in the presence of the Lord.. It's been sometime since I've actually really spent time just worshipping and being in His presence.. I do read my bible everyday but yea, today was just different.. =)

Search me O God, and see if there's any wicked ways in me..
And let to the path everlasting..
Hide me under the shadow of Your wings..
Cover me with Your love..
Let the joy of the Lord be my strength..
That I may be an overcomer!

How are you living your day?

One of my cellie just sent this to me:-

"Everyday is a gift from God, what you do with it is your gift to Him"

I just found that statement to be so powerful. I think sometimes I take God for granted and don't realise that everyday, everything I have is truly a gift from God..

Help me Lord to not take you for granted..
Help my life to be one that is pleasing to your sight..
Forgive me for the many many times that I have just failed you..
I'm sorry Lord..
I really am..
I love you very much!

Secret Barnabas

I just got my first Secret Barnabas message:-

Dearest Michelle,

I'm so glad that I got you for my Secret Barnabas project. I have been tremendously encouraged by your life and ministry. Your attitude and character has encouraged me to go on too. Keep up the wonderful spirit and attitude and let us continue to cheer each other on.

Keep smiling too... you've got a great smile!

:)

Not so weird after all

Tomorrow's my presentation for Strategic Management.. The team comprises of 3 of us and this is the first time I'm working with these girls..

Today however, we had a trial run of our presentation.. We did it twice! It felt so weird at first presenting in an empty lecture hall.. I've never rehearsed for my presentation this way before so it was really different for me..

But I must say that I found it to be quite productive.. There's so much to cover so time management is crucial!

Lord I pray that you will give me the peace as I head to do the presentation tomorrow.. That You'll grant me favour with my lecturer.. That everything that I say will be clear, precise and on point..

Ring Ring.. YES!!!

I just collected my phone from the shop.. Woohoo!! No longer phone-less..

A lady reporter and photographer from Flavors Magazine came over to the house yesterday to do a story on mum's cake baking and her latest book - Heritage Cookbook.. It was so exciting.. Mum was working the whole week preparing different little numbers for them including a 3-tier wedding cake and lotsa various desserts.. Guess who gets to eat them??

Also just collected my blood test in the afternoon..

Cholesterol high and low calcium.. Yikes!!! Have to watch my diet.. Doc wants me to come back in 3 months to check again..

Caught 4pm Fast & Furious 4 @ One Utama with mum.. Mum initially was so not interested in going.. But I kinda pujuk her to follow me.. Had no other kaki to go with.. She loved the show!!! haha.. So did I! A good watch! You guys should go catch it..

Can't wait for Wolverine to be released!

Ring Ring.. NOT!

I'm without a phone for at least 3 days.. It was giving me lotsa problem.. and finally last night, it totally 'kong'.. I can't even switch it on now..

So yea, if you need to get in touch with me, please do drop me a line here or my email..

Folk Art Painting

For those who love beautiful things, I just came across my auntie's blog.. She has started a new hobby - Folk Art Painting..

She has posted up some of her superb work and they're up for sale.. If you're looking for a good gift idea, here's the perfect place..

Find out more here..

Agidee's Affirmation

We affirmed Agidee in cell last Friday.. He will be moving on to lead the Mentari International Cell.. It's been such a joy to have him in our cell and we have truly been blessed in so many different ways by him..

Below are just a few shots taken during cell..

You've been an impact!

Your ministry is 'Comedy'..

They Joy of the Lord is your Strength.


You've been an encouragement!

Continue to carry your anointing and be a blessing in your new cell.

It's your season to move on to greater things.

May God pour forth His anointing oil upon you and your cup runneth over!

Here's Agidee sharing from his heart..

Phew!

Today I worked on my Strategic Management assignment that is due on the 4th of May. Realised that I needed discipline cos I was just being distracted by the many different things around me - mostly MSN, FB, TV!!

So today I made a conscious attempt to:

a. not watch much TV
b. not chat much

I'm proud to say that I kept up to it! For once! haha..

I finished more than 80% of the paper and will work on the balance either tonight or over the weekend.. Hopefully I get to work on it tonight after cell if I'm not too tired..

It's due only on 4th May, so why work on it so early you may ask?? Well, I have another assignment due 8th May for which I have only done 30%.. and the balance 70% requires a lot of research and hard work.. so I'm predicting I'll need at least a couple of weeks for that..

And then there's another paper due 15th May for which I've done 0%!

So there you go! I have to start somewhere rite? Glad I started today.. =)

Now I'm gonna go prepare for cell..

Amazing!

Hmm....

Adam Lambert performing as Joshua in the musical The Ten Commandments with Val Kilmer : Is Anybody Listening?

What if..

I'm now an organ donor.. =) Registered last Saturday after Beyond Tears..

We just had our first L-Cell.. I'm now a cell member again.. Feels good.. I love the make-up of the group.. Am pretty close with most of them and am looking forward to getting to know the rest more..

We had a good time of bonding over dinner and dessert..

Food for thought:-
How would it be if Christ had not died and risen, and if there was not Easter??

Over the Weekend

Easter has come and passed... been meaning to blog in between but somehow just didn't manage to go online..Beyond Tears, the drama was really moving.. Watched it on both Good Friday and Saturday.. Thought the actors did a marvelous job this year.. Kudos to the Production Team!!!

Thank You Lord for dying for me.. Thank You Lord for Life! Help me to lead me my life to the fullest for YOU!!!
Spent quality time with cousins on Saturday night for a really nice dinner at Ginger Tree.. - this really cozy restaurant in Sunway Mentari.. one of my uncles is the chef there so I knew I was in for an awesome dinner.. Was definitely not disappointed!

It's been sometime since I've spent time with them and seen my nephew.. So decided that I'll sleepover at my cuz's place as well.. Jerome slept on my chest towards the end of dinner and the whole way home..
One of my cousin's also pregnant with her second child and was blessed to see her 5 month old moving in her tummy.. I don't think I've seen anyone else look so gorgeous during her pregnancy..

Dinner last nite was just superb!

He hears my prayer

<sup>Psalm 4

1</sup> Answer me when I call to you,
O my righteous God.
Give me relief from my distress;
be merciful to me and hear my prayer.

² How long, O men, will you turn my glory into shame?
How long will you love delusions and seek false gods?

³ Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for himself;
the LORD will hear when I call to him.

⁴ In your anger do not sin;
when you are on your beds,
search your hearts and be silent.

⁵ Offer right sacrifices
and trust in the LORD.

⁶ Many are asking, "Who can show us any good?"
Let the light of your face shine upon us, O LORD.

⁷ You have filled my heart with greater joy
than when their grain and new wine abound.

⁸ I will lie down and sleep in peace,
for you alone, O LORD,
make me dwell in safety.

Pasta Mania

I'm on a pasta craze...

Cooked Spaghetti Bolognese for lunch yesterday..

Whipped up some really fast Mac and Cheese for lunch today.. Which surprisingly turned out so yummy! I don't think I've ever mad Mac and Cheese that tasted this good.. I'm proud of myself.. =)

Missing all the Fun

I'm still in KL.. and not Ipoh... =(
Fell sick and was not up to traveling.. wouldn't have been much help cleaning up also in the condition I'm in..
Was really looking forward to going back though..
Sigh!!!
Well, hopefully I'll use this time to just work on my assignment..
Oh and won't be missing out on the multiplication prayer at church today!!

Got Fooled

J has a girlfriend. Call him now. Her name starts with 'A'.

That was the sms that I received from my cousin yesterday. I was so excited when I got that sms. But somehow was not able to call him, it was just a crazy day yesterday..

Anyways, I called him about few hours back..

M : So I heard you have a girlfriend.
J: Who told you?
M : Someone la. Who is it?? Heard her name starts with 'A'.
J : Her name's April.. =)

At least I wasn't so blur.. haha.. heard some of my other cousins didn't get it even after learning that her name was April.. lol

Thank God for funny cousins huh? =)

I'm going back to Ipoh tomorrow night with them.. Just for the weekend to help do some stuff in my auntie's house.. Am really looking forward to it.. It's been sometime since I went back to just chill with my cousins..

Beyond Tears

My church is having an Easter production this year entitled, Beyond Tears.

When 21-year old Kevin's life comes to an abrupt halt, his parents are faced with many unexpected decisions. As their only child's life unfolds before them, they realise that the decisions they make will not only affect them. Will they be able to find strength amidst their pain and grief? What will they find when they look beyond their tears?

Easter Drama Dates & Times:

10 Apr (Fri) : 8.30pm
11 Apr (Sat) : 5.00pm

Easter Sunday Service

12 Apr (Sun) : 8.30am & 11am

Watch the video trailer below.

Hwee Yen's Affirmation

Last night, we affirmed HY at cell as she'll be moving on to take on the position of a Zone Leader.. It was a night full of emotions as we each took our time to appreciate her and to release words of encouragement that God placed in our hearts for her..

PGC then thought that it should be the cell members praying for HY instead of the usual Zone Supervisor praying for the person being affirmed.. It went from two of us to pray to NINE of us.. The prayers were beautiful, at the same time very mature.. More words released.. God also showed visions to three of them..

Great things are in store for you HY. Your prayers, love, tears, sweat are not in vain!

John 15:4-8
Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit, apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.

You will continue to bear fruit that LAST!!

We appreciate you HY for your continuous love that you have poured out into our lives. You have been such a blessing! Though you may not know it at times, God has really used you to touch our lives. May you continue to submit and obey the will of God and may He open the floodgates of heaven for you. That even as you honour Him as take up this next phase by faith, know that the Lord will honour you too. Just as was shared yesterday, this is your appointed time.

We as a cell release you in love and in joy.. God is going to be glorified so much more from your life and we as a cell are praying along with you and are here to support you all the way.

**Camera battery died after a bit. So no pictures of the prayer and HY crying.. =)

Faith

I just came back from a really nice dinner with my auntie.. We went to the Curve and she's been having a craving for spicy Chinese noodles.. She just came back from visiting her daughter in NZ.. so Western food was definitely out!

Yikes! Can't remember the name of the restaurant we went to now.. Ah Gee something.. It was on the 2nd floor.. I really liked the food there..

We were just catching up.. and she was sharing about my niece (her granddaughter) who's now with my cousin (her mum) in NZ.. she's only 5.. but she has such faith that she would pray over my auntie whenever she has any pain.. Her brother (my nephew) who's only 10 went up for an altar call in church to accept Jesus Christ into his heart as his Lord and Saviour... I was just wow-ed by this stories..

God is really doing a wonderful work in my nephew and niece's life..

2342 - Day 18

Lord I pray that you will help me to repent of my sins and commit myself wholeheartedly in leading a life that honours You. Make my paths straight Lord. If I were to sway, please bring me back. Let not any sin in my life, known or unknown hinder me from being whole and righteous in your eyes. Lead me and help me Holy Spirit. I cannot do it on my own.

Today's been a good day.

Started on my assignment.. Something that I've been just procrastinating on.. Am about to complete my questionnaire for my dissertation... We're getting somewhere.. =)

Had lunch with PGC, Yen and Leroy this afternoon.. New beginnings.. New challenges.. I'm excited but at the same time SUPER scared.. Which I've realised is a good place to be.. As I'm desperate for Him, I am more dependent on Him.. I don't ever want to be in a position where I'm not desperate because then I wouldn't be relying on His strength but rather just my own.. That would be creepy and just not right!

Josie and Andrew have planned a really exciting Gear Up for tomorrow's carecell.. Will post more about it tomorrow.. I believe that this new TCC model is a great path for GT.. I pray that we will be able to intergrate the new model well with our cell..

Got to go get dinner for me and aunt now.. More later..

Grace

Where would I be if not for your grace
Carrying me through every season
Where would I be if not for your grace
You came to my rescue
And I wanna thank you
For Your
Grace that restores
Grace that redeems
Grace that releases me to worship
Grace that repairs
Visions and dreams
Grace that releases miracles

Was just listening to Israel's song earlier in the car and it really struck me..

Where would I be if not for Your grace?

I thank God that His grace and mercies are new every morning.. His grace and love truly does restore and gives us that hope to live one.. Knowing that we are not condemned in Christ Jesus..

Use me Lord

If You can use anything Lord
You can use me
If You can use anything Lord
You can use me
Take my hands Lord
And my feet
Touch my heart Lord
Speak through me
If You can use anything Lord
You can use me

Lord I pray that you will use me. I'm surrender my life and heart to you. If you could use a donkey, you can use me. I pray that you will stir up giftings in me and help me use my talents and these giftings to serve you mightily. That I will continue to be a builder for Your Kingdom. Amen!

God Speaks

I had a good time at cell today.. We had an awesome turnout of 16 of us.. One returning visitor from LIITA..

Quite a number have been fasting along.. Some shared along their testimonies.. It was really encouraging to hear the testimonies and I can't wait to be able to share along about my breakthroughs..

Worship was really good.. God really spoke to me through during worship.. His presence is ever so real now to me..

Do not let the past and yesterdays hold us back from our tomorrows!!

Better

I was just lying in bed yesterday trying to pray and just trying to be comforted in God's presence. Somehow however I just felt God being really far away and felt that I was in this situation all alone. Just then, a super old friend from my former church whom I have not been in touch with for sometime sent me this msg..

The God that we serve is not One that abandons His people. You are His so He CANNOT and WILL NOT forsake you. God Bless!

She did not know what I was going through. It was certainly God speaking through her at that moment to me. Those words comforted me so much that I just started to cry even more. But this time not tears of loneliness or sorrow but rather tears of gratefulness and in awe of God's awesomeness and His huge humongous love for me. Her next message read:

God's with you girl. He always has been there. It's hard to see it but He is faithful. Speak to Him and cry out cause He listens though it feels like He isn't. Cling to His promises cause it's given to you as your inheritence. You're precious to Him.

Things are a little better today and I pray that I will have the strength to not let the words of others come in the way of my spiritual walk or my confidence in God. That I will hold dear to all His promises for my life. That His plan and will for my life will be fulfilled in His perfect timing.

100th post

It's my 100th post!

It's been a rough night.. or rather still is.. had a tiff with someone and some words were said about my past.. and I'm not sure how to go about handling it.. the past is supposed to be behind me.. yet when this person brings it up, it brings up bad memories, times of me not being a very good person.. and I'm trying so hard to just move on and live a life that is pleasing to God but it just gets so tough at some point..

Does it get any easier?

Double Chocolate Crips

Made this little number for my girls during Valentines' Day... As a token of appreciation for playing a special part in my life..

Prep: 15 mins
Bake: 10 - 12 minutes per batch
Yield: 4 dozen

250 grams Butter
1 3/4 cups Caster Sugar
2 Eggs
4 ounces Unsweetened Chocolate - melted & cooled
2 teaspoons Vanilla Essence
2 1/4 cups Plain Flour
1 teaspoon Sodium Bicarbonate or Baking Soda
1 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
1 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips
1 cup Chopped Pecans or any other nuts of choice

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar till light and fluffy.

2. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

3. Beat in chocolate and vanilla.

4. Combine and sift the flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon; gradually add to the creamed mixture.

5. Stir in chocolate chips and pecans.

6. Drop by tablespoonfuls (small portions) 2 inches apart onto greased baking sheets.

7. Bake at 175 degrees Celsius for 10-12 minutes or until tops are cracked.

8. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Chock-full of chocolate, these crispy cookies have a tantalizing aroma while baking. They'll surely satisfy a sweet tooth. They taste better the next day.

Mum wants to try them again but with white chocolate bits and macadamia nuts.

Movie Review: Billu Barber

Went to watch this movie last night with mum, Sue and Naledi.. It's been awhile since I've watched a SRK movie at the cinema.. Was so excited bout it the days leading up to it.. I was just sitting at the edge of my sit waiting for the movie to start.. It surely didn't disappoint.. Although at one point in the beginning, we thought it was going to be about some aliens and space ships.. Thank God that was not true.. It's not your usual love triangle between 2 men and a lady vice versa or a love story where the parents just refuse the relationship..

It's about a barber named 'Billu'.. hahaha... as if that was not obvious..

SRK's no longer using 'Rahul'.. lol. He's so much older now but still looks SO good..

Lara Dutta was exceptional in the film!!

Deepika is SO SO tall!! and she can move!!

Surely worth the watch at the cinema.. Beep Beep!!

Michelle's Rating: 9.3 / 10.0

2.3.4.2 - Day 3

Lord,
Help me to accept myself as You have created me - fearfully and wonderfully,
That You have a greater and divine plan for my life,
Help me to continuously be thankful of your providence, guidance, grace, mercy, love, relationships and see the greater good and purpose in difficult situations,
That as the Holy Spirit convicts me of the sin in my life, I will repent and not go back to it cos I don't want to lose out on Your blessings and will for my life.

Woke up early for an 8am class today.. Started my day with the Lord in my car as I was just waiting for class to start.. It's been a good morning so far and am just looking forward to a fruitful day!

2.3.4.2

What is 2342?

TWO (2) or THREE (3) people gather to pray FOR (4) TWO (2) fish.

Over the next 30 days, Glad Tidings is declaring a season of prayer and fasting and trusting God for breakthroughs in key areas in our family, church, community and nation. This is my first time fasting corporately with the church and am very excited about it. Am believing God to pour forth His blessings into these areas of my life:- Strength, Health, Wholeness, Togetherness, Growth.

It's day 2 now.. I've just started my fast today - fasting one meal a day...

Do join along on this exciting journey and believe that there'll be breakthroughs in all these areas..

Important note - fasting goes hand in hand with prayer, or else it's just dieting!!!

Not able to make it..

I'm so sad.. I was not able to go for the Dance Championship cos I'm down with flu and really high fever.. Went to see the doc yesterday and he said that my blood pressure was really low.. 80/60.. So decided it would be wise not to drive up to the cold Genting and rather spend that time recuperating at home.. My cell member did make it though with another cellie of mine.. Hope their having lotsa fun there.. Can't wait to hear all about it when they get back at cell tonight..

On a lighter note, we went to celebrate two of our cell member's (Amos & Zhi Ling) birthday yesterday at One Utama.. We met at Dave's Deli but then adjourned to Italiannies since Dave's had run out of pasta and majority had a craving for pasta.. It was a good turnout with 9 of us.. Dinner was hilarious!! Both the birthday babies had to stand on the chair and make a speech.. I think some of them caught it on video.. Will post it up if I manage to get my hands on a good one.. I initially thought of bailing on dinner cos was not feeling well but glad I didn't.. Really enjoyed time with my cellies..

Gonna try to get some shut eye now before cell..

Arrrggghhhh.....

I'm not feeling well! Down with flu and sore throat.. Don't feel good at all..

Smell of fish curry's filling the house.. Can't wait to have some..

Have to eat in a rush though cos class is in one hour!!

Dance Championship 2009

One of my cell member just won 2 tickets to go catch The Malaysian International Dance Championship 2009 this Friday at the Arena of Stars, Genting. And she generously asked me to come along. I don't think she knows how much I love going for dance shows or these kinda dance competitions. I feel so blessed!

It's a new season

I thought that today would be hard.. In fact, last night I tried really hard to go to sleep early so I wouldn't have to think so much about today.. Woke up feeling a little funny.. Spent sometime praying and felt the peace of God fill my heart..

We reached the place like 40 minutes early.. Was told that we should be there by 9am as it would start by then, however it only started around 10am.. There were 4 others before me and my cousin managed to make it just before the first one went up.. There were some hiccups with some of them, but mine finished in about 5 minutes or even less I would say.. it went on really smoothly and was over before I knew it.. I didn't have to say or answer any questions..

Initially I didn't wanna go cos I didn't wanna face those involved, but I was surprisingly very calm when I met them and even spoke to them.. It was not a bitter experience.. In fact, once it was over, there was a huge rush of relieve that I felt cos it's something that I've been waiting for for 2 years..

I'm so grateful to my loving Father who's grace and mercies are new every morning.. I'm grateful for second chances.. I'm grateful for a forgiving heart.. I'm grateful for his endless love that just brings me to tears everytime I think about it.. Thank You Jesus!!..

I'm so thankful for my parents who have stood by me throughout this whole journey, family who have continuously loved me no matter the situation, cell members and dear friends who've been praying along and supporting me in many areas and ways.. I couldn't have gone thru these past 3 years or today without them..

It truly is a new season and a new day for me.. Today marks a new beginning in my life..

Straight or Curled??

Oh on a lighter note, I've got a new hairdo.. Decided that I didn't want my hair curly anymore.. It was really hard to manage so last Friday I decided to straighten it.. It was a drastic move for me cos my hair is like super duper thin and fine.. It doesn't do very well with chemicals.. And I only permed my hair like 5 months ago.. So this decision to straighten my hair could have resulted in my hair being damaged.. But decided to go ahead with it anyway... Thus, the drastic-ness... lol..

Turns out my hair's quite strong.. guess it was also cos the product used was of good quality.. Caused me a lot of $$$$$.... but worth it la!!! I'm just loving my new hair.. Most seem to feel the same way except for one of my Bots cellie.. haha.. 'he told me last Sat that everyone else is just trying to make me feel good about myself and he's not gonna lie but tell me the truth instead'... I appreciate his honesty..

Oh.. am gonna catch 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons' in 40 mins.. My uncle got my parents and me free tickets..

One more day..

I've been waiting for tomorrow for the past one and a half years.. It's finally gonna go thru and I'll be able to move on with one area of my life.. But somehow now, I don't really feel like going thru with tomorrow.. Not that I've changed my mind about it or don't wanna go thru with it.. I just don't wanna meet the people involved in the situation.. I wish there was a way I could just settle it without having to face any of them.. that however is just not possible!! I haven't seen some of them in more than a year and they're not people that I really look forward to meeting..

My dad who before was not sure if he could come along with me has now gotten his leave approved.. My CL is also coming along to support me.. I hope my cousin now can make it.. Cos it's a working day, she's not sure if she can get out... but I really do hope she's able to.. I need some security on my part and she'll definitely provide it..

Will update tomorrow on how it went..

After a long break....

I went to see my nephew yesterday after like 2 months.. He was sleeping so soundly when I arrived so I decided to lie down next to him.. I've missed him so much.. I think I moved a bit too much though cos he woke up soon after.. haha.. But I was kinda glad he did although my cousin didn't feel the same.. Once he was up, it was bullying Michelle Atteh time!!! I enjoyed every moment of it...

Haven't seen my cousin in a long time too and she's expecting her 2nd child now.. Hoorray!!! There's a slight bulge now on her tummy.. I think it's gonna be a girl this time cos everything about this pregnancy is just so different from the first one..

More later.. I'm gonna go do my hair now..

My Valentines' Day was..

just sweet, hilarious, memorable..

I started the day by baking cookies for my girls at church.. just a small chocolat-y token for being absolutely wonderful, spectacular babes...

Bride Wars in church was just just just so so so hilarious!!! Every single girl played her role so well.. and it was so cool to see the other side of the 'bachelor'...

Dinner with Naledi, Res, Tanzie and YC.. We all had one thing in common.. single - available - hot!!! lol..

I don't think I've enjoyed my Valentines' Day as much as I have today...

CrazyLittleThingCalledLOVE

This weekend,

"Crazy Little Thing Called L-O-V-E"Valentine Service presents...

6 Girls. 1 Bachelor.

That can only spell one thing… TROUBLETRUE LOVE!

Come and join us for the Season Finale of GTPJ's very own reality TV Show and find out how this bachelor will find his one and only True Love. And of course, what people will do – crazy, happy, generous, out-of-this-world things – in the name of L-O-V-E!!

The Show comes LIVE to you

Saturday @ 5.00pm

Sunday @ 8.30am and 11.00am

so grab a friend and don't miss out!!

SPECIALLY brought to you by,
Glad Tidings Petaling Jaya Youth & Young Adult Service
6 Jalan 13/4 PJ


*SEE YOU THERE!*

Bowling & Cell

Bowling with my Bots cellies yesterday was just beyond fun.. Quite a number canceled last minute so I thought it was just gonna be a small group of us.. say around 7 of us.. We started off with lunch cum tea at KFC.. then the group just started growing bigger and bigger.. By the time we went to bowl, there were about 20 of us.. I really enjoyed myself.. there was such a diversified group of cellies there from seniors to juniors to students from even MMU!!..

I manage to bond with some of the newer batches and strengthen my relationship with the older ones.. It was also a good time for the juniors and seniors to interact amongst each other..

I got lotsa good feedback from the cellies saying that they really enjoyed themselves.. Some of them were bowling for their first time.. We got to wear this really cute funky shoes.. =) One even got a special yellow coloured one cos her shoe size was like a '2' lol...

Daniel was the man!! He was one of the best players.. Followed closely by Oats..

The timing was just perfect.. the boys finished the 2nd game just as the van was reaching IOI Mall to pick them up to go for cell..

I think more of these activities should be organized.. maybe on a monthly basis.. =)

Check out some of the hilarious pictures here and here..

All 20 of us then headed for cell to join the other 38 there.. We had an attendance of 58 yesterday!!! PTL.. I don't think I've seen that many cellies at Desaria before.. Yesterday's worship session was also one of the best I've seen in the cell.. God's presence was just so intense..

Sue then shared the vision for the cell to multiply.. The Desaria cell is targeted to multiply in March to Puchong.. Most of the seniors from Des will then be based in Puchong.. I believe that through this multiplication, many of the juniors at Des will rise up... There are so many there will enormous potential.. This truly is the Year of Positioning..

For the past 3 weeks we have been focusing on the Journey Guide and Beginning Your New Life Series at cell to help those who have just accepted Christ to help them in their understanding of their walk with Christ and also to prepare them for Water Baptism..

I've been with the Heights group for the past three weeks, and we have been the smallest group out of the three there.. We started with only 4 of us three weeks ago.. Yesterday we grew to 11.. Some have returned from their holidays and some have just been continuing to bring new people to cell and church.. It is such an encouragement to continue to see the same faces and new faces..

Having a look..

I just visited one of my mum's cousin.. He lives alone in a really huge huge house.. He has a huge yard and the garden is pretty unkempt.. So mum asked him if any snakes come around.. and his reply was..

Uncle: Oh they do come sometimes..

Me: Oh no!!! What do you do when they come around????

Uncle: *sighs* I just go and have a look...

Movie Review: Valkyrie

Synopsis:

Valkyrie is a historical thriller film directed by Bryan Singer (The Usual Suspects, X-Men, Superman Returns) starring Tom Cruise. The film is based on the true story a plot by German army officers to assassinate Adolf Hitler.

Cruise plays Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, a loyal officer and real life German hero, who took it upon himself to try and stop Hitler as the demented tyrant led the country inexorably to its destruction.

Claus von Stauffenberg is severely wounded in Africa and returns home to Nazi Germany where he helps conceive Operation Valkyrie, a plan approved by Adolf Hitler, to implement a shadow government to manage turmoil within Germany in the eventuality of the Führer's death.

Stauffenberg draws a distinction between Hitler and Germany and decides to act in order to save the country. He becomes part of the July 20 plot, a conspiracy to assassinate Hitler and execute Valkyrie in order to take control of the country and make peace.

Stauffenberg finds himself taking on not only the responsibility of leading the coup, but also the task to assassinate Hitler himself.

Stauffenberg lost his left eye, right hand and two fingers on his left hand in an Allied attack in Tunisia. Cruise had to practice dressing, moving items and writing considering those disabilities. He prepared for the role for eight months; he hired a researcher, studied history books, and spoke with some of von Stauffenberg's family.

The film was shot in Germany at various locations where many of the actual events had occurred, including the historic Bendlerblock where Stauffenberg and his comrades had plotted to assassinate Hitler.

I thought this movie was really amazing.. Definitely worth a watch at the big screen..

Michelle's Rating: 9/10

Movie Review: Revolutionary Road

Kate Winslet won 'Best Actress' at the recent Awards Show for her spectacular performance in the movie above.. This movie was up for countless nominations.. With that I couldn't wait for the movie to be released in the cinemas to go watch.. However, a girlfriend of mine bought the DVD and we watched it at our sleepover last night.. What a disappointment!! I thought the movie was slow and anti-climatic.. The actors did indeed perform well for their role but I just didn't like the story line..

Michelle's Ratings: 3/10

Bowling

I've planned a bowling day next Tuesday with the newer batch of Botswana students then we'll head to cell together... Am looking forward to it as it will give us a chance to bond and get to know the newer batch better apart from just at cell and church..

It's been ages since I've bowled.. Maybe I should sit by the side to avoid embarrassing myself.. lol...

Heritage Cookbook

Mum wrote her second recipe book and published it about 7 months ago. Unlike her first book 'Simply Delightful' where all the recipes were her own, this second book is named 'Heritage Cookbook' as it is a collection of recipes from dear family and friends.

Recipes that are family secrets are revealed in this book!!!

The recipes are simple and easy-to-do... It's a gr-r-reat buy and I'm really glad that this book came out better than the first one.. More effort, time and love was put into it.. I use the book so often at home to bake.. and have even started using it to cook some recipes... Many know that I can bake well but when it comes to cooking, sigh, not so good.. but I'm getting there.. and mum's recipe book comes in real handy..

It's only selling for a good RM29.90 per copy! It's certainly a good buy and makes a great pressie.. Worth the RM29.90 to learn some good recipes..

Ping me if interested!! Would really appreciate your support..

Valentine's Promo @ Embun Day Spa

The above spa belongs to one of my friend's mum. They're having a special promo for the month of February with a 'buy 1 free 1' offer.

Check them out!

Last Week of Holidays!

It's been some days since I last blogged.. I'm so not looking forward to next week.. Classes start again on Tue I think... It's my final semester and it's looks like it's going to be a hard one.. I don't seem to have an option this semester with my subjects like I usually do.. This time, all the subjects have been chosen and fixed.. there's no changing it! Sigh! It's also the semester I need to complete my project.. meeting up with my lecturer / supervisor in charge of my project on Wed to see what comments he has on my project proposal from last semester..

I just looked through to see if my results were out.. and they still aren't.. I hope I passed all my papers..

The T-Mobile Dance

I wonder how long they took to practice this!!T

Recipe : Awesome Blossom Gingercake

I made this cake a week ago and it was absolutely delicious. I took the recipe from a baking book by 'A Taste of Home' and 'Reader's Digest. It's definitely a book worth getting because so far I've tried about five recipes from it and they've all turned out very nicely. Although most of the recipes are a little sweet so I tend to reduce on the sugar. For this Gingercake however, I've made a few changes to the ingredients.

When you make this dessert cake, the wonderful aroma of gingerbread will fill the house. A dollop of sweetened whipped cream crowns each piece.

250gms or 1 bar Butter, Softened
3/4 cup Caster Sugar
3 Eggs
1 cup Molasses
3/4 cup Hot Water
2 1/2 cups Plain Flour
2 teaspoons Ground Ginger
1 teaspoon Baking Soda or Sodium Bicarbonate
1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg

Topping:-
1 Cup Heavy Whipping Cream
1 to 2 tablespoons Icing Sugar
Additional Nutmeg - optional

1. Prepare oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Line and grease a 13 inch x 9 inch x 2 inch or 10 inch x 10 inch baking tin. Sift the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, salt and nutmeg and leave aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar till light and fluffy. Add eggs; beat on low speed for 2 minutes. Gradually add the molasses and hot water.

3. Gradually add in the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture. Beat on low for 1 minute.

4. Pour mixture into greased baking tin and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted neat the centre comes out clean. Cool on wire rack.

5. For the topping, beat cream in a chilled small bowl until it begins to thicken. Add the icing sugar; beat till soft peaks form. Serve with the gingercake. Sprinkle with nutmeg if desired.

Getting to Know You and Me

Yesterday was the 2nd cell of the year for Desaria and Puchong and the 1st cell for Heights.. We decided that it would good to combine the Heights cellies with Desaria until the seniors come back from their holidays..

We started on Journey Guide yesterday and will head into the Beginning Your New Life series for the next few weeks.. Broke up into smaller groups that will be with fixed cellies until we finish the series so that they can grow together in sub-units.. I believe that these discipleship classes are very timely and there is a great need for it as there are many new believers in our cell.. and through this series we can hopefully help them grow spiritually as well as answer any doubts they may have..

It is also very timely as we are planning for a multiplication in the next couple of months and this will also help gear the seniors..

I was with the Heights group yesterday.. There were only a small group of 4 of us.. There was so much that I learnt about my group as well as myself as we were going through the questions in Journey Guide.. It was more of a reflection.. I believe that through this series, our bond will become much stronger and I can foresee it being a beautiful journey as we continue to encourage each other and pray along with each other in our race and spiritual walk..

I miss him!

My dad just left for Johor yesterday.. The house feels so different now.. My mum misses him a lot.. She use to wait up for him to come back from work.. But now it's just her and me at home..

Spoke to my dad this morning and he's settling in there.. There's not much to do.. In fact, the place he's staying at for the moment doesn't even have a fridge or TV.. How la?? I initially thought that mum and I could cook for him and send him food.. But now with not fridge, I guess that's out of the question..

Sigh! I miss my dad.. He'll come back on weekends.. But it's just not the same!

Bloglines

A friend just introduced me to the coolest thing ever..

BLOGLINES...

You can choose the links that you want to be updated on, such as blogs or news and it will prompt you as those links are updated..

Memorial Service

Memorial service for the late Ronald Sekamane will be held at the Hall of Fame, Lim Kok Wing tomorrow, 15th Jan @ 430pm.

Remember by Amos Wafula feat. Leroy

Jesus is Alive!

Empowerment to Positioning

Today was KDYA's first cell of the year.. It was a refreshing night as many cellies shared about how cell and 2008 has impacted their life and what position they see themselves taking up in 2009, be it in cell or church.. I had to hold back tears as we shared.. It's just amazing how God has drawn us closer together through just this 4 months since we've multiplied..

There were a family of 13 of us tonight.. Praise God for 2 new visitors and 2 more who joined us from LIITA..

2008 was the Year of Empowerment and indeed it was a year that God had empowered me in many different areas of my life.. I joined the YA cell in June 2006 and it was also the time I began to start anew in my walk with God and started to serve more in cell and church.. As I went for the Watchnight Service at the end of 2007 and when Ps. Vincent shared that 2008 would be a Year of Empowerment, I decided that it was time to let go and let God in every aspect of my life.. I'm glad I made that decision because I now have seen the favour and blessings that God has poured into my life by just taking that little step of faith... I have never been more satisfied in God and can't recall a time that I've been happier...

Cell has also played a huge part in the person I am today.. I've grown so much in the past year and a half because of dear friends who truly cared about my spiritual growth and genuinely just cared about me.. A dear friend of mine always says that "Cell's not just where we meet on Fridays, but instead cell is living life together"... That statement is so true.. Through my lowest and darkest times, I would call on my cellies to just have a shoulder to cry on or to be prayed for.. Through my happiest times, I would call on my cellies just to be able to share my joy with them and laugh together.. God has also blessed me with wonderful leaders who have lovingly mentored me.. I've learned so much from you.. Thank you for consistently checking up on me and praying along with me..

2009 is the Year of Positioning.. I believe that I was positioned to be in my current cell for a reason.. I'm excited to see the things that God has in store for this cell.. However, I have to be obedient in what He requires of me.. All of us need to.. Only then can His plan be fulfilled for this cell..

"From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work." Eph 4:16

Rich Chocolate Brownies

I just made this.. It's super simple and taste absolutely delicious!!

Prep : 15mins
Bake : 25mins + cooling
Yeild : 12 Servings

1 cup Sugar
2 Eggs
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
125gms Butter, Melted
1/2 cup Plain Flour
1/3 cup Cocoa Powder
1/4 teaspoon Baking Powder
1/4 teaspoon Salt

1. Preheat oven to 175 degrees Celsius and line and grease a 8 inch square tin. Instead of greasing the tin, I usually just use parchment paper (best invention ever) and line the tin till the top. So it's easier to lift the brownie out of the tin once it's cooked.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar, eggs and vanilla. Add butter and mix well. Sift and combine the flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt; add them to batter and mix well.

3. Pour mixture into the tin. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack.

4. For the frosting, I just melted chocolate and spread it over the brownie. The brownies taste nice without the frosting but the frosting adds an extra ummmpphhh to it.

Bigger Picture

It's been an interesting week so far.. and it's only Thursday!!

I just got off the phone with dad about his transfer.. He's still trying to see what he can do about it, whom he can talk to about it.. I don't want him to be transferred... It's gonna be so weird with only having to see him on weekends.. Sigh! I guess I just have to leave it up to God.. Maybe God has greater plans for him there??

"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

Dad was very upset about it when he first found out.. but now he seems to be calmer and at peace.. He's seeing someone else about it tomorrow.. So I guess we'll know for sure tomorrow.. I'm just gonna claim that verse and trust that it will all work out well.. Though it's really hard at times, but I know God sees the bigger picture..

Work out!

I played badminton yesterday after a long break.. I think it's been about 8 months.. Boy! my body's really aching today.. But it was a good work out.. With all the food I've been stuffing down for the last 2 months and with no exercise, it was starting to show... haha.. maybe I'll go for a swim next Sun as well..

God's Protection

Yesterday before Watchnight Service, mum and dad had gone for dinner. As they were walking back to their car, a guy on a motorbike tried to snatch mum's bag. He didn't manage to get the bag cos it was over her arm, but as he was pulling it she fell and was dragged for a bit. Thank God there were only minor injuries. Mum hurt her hip and leg but her face was protected.

Thank You Lord for Your loving hand of protection over my family. I Love YOU!

Christmas Treats

Made with love for those close to my heart..

Movie Review: Ip Man

I watched this movie few days back with my parents.. Was not so keen on watching it at first cos I thought it was some superhero movie.. as the name was Ip Man.. but I'm glad I went along for the movie cos it was a really enjoyable one..

Here's the synopsis:

Ip Man is adapted from the life story of Ip Man, the grand master of the Wing Chun style of kung fu and sifu (master) of legendary kung fu superstar Bruce Lee. This movie will be the first important record of the master’s life. Ip’s persistent devotion to Wing Chun is a classic example of the love and respect shown to wushu and the freedom and spirit it represents. Ip Man is a concept, a spirit, a way of thinking - and it represent a new peak in Hong Kong’s wushu movies.

Michelle's Rating : 9/10

Mum has recently been very into Chinese movies.. She watched Red Cliff with my dad at the cinema and had been wanting to take me for it as well.. but as usual la I was too busy with assignments and other stuff to go watch it.. Red Cliff II is showing on 23rd Jan and mum wants to go watch it with me so bad that she went to Speedy Video the other day to get me the DVD of the first part and we watched it together when we came home.. So cute la she.. haha..


Even as we were watching Ip Man, mum started making all this Chinese gong noises.. It was hilarious.. I think dad's very happy that mum's showing an interest in Chinese movies so at least he has another kaki to go watch with..

One Night Retreat

I'm off to Gua Tempurung for the night for the GT Overseas Retreat..

Shocking News

I just found out that my dad might be transfered.. to a different state!!! This cannot be happening..

Update

It's been so long since I last blogged.. Have just been caught up with assignments, studying for exams, preparations for LIITA and just other stuff.. Here goes my attempt for a brief update of what's happened in the last one and a half months or so..

There was Naledi's birthday.. We did a small lil surprise thingy with a really small cake on the 24th of Nov itself.. She turned 21..

She also had a birthday dinner the following Saturday with some of her closest friends.. She planned the whole thing herself but we just had a small lil surprise for her and she teared up so much cos she was so touched.. She didn't think that there would be any surprises since she planned the whole evening..

Then there was Lynn's Bridal Shower at my place.. 3 of us gathered early in the morning, went grocery shopping, cooked up a storm and decorated the place.. It was all worth it when we saw the look on Lynn's face as she walked in the house.. We had it at the balcony of my place.. The first time the balcony is being used for any kinda party..

We had such a fun / CRAZY time.. With my older cousins there, things just got even wilder..

'Gypsy' was the theme for the night, hence the dressing you see..

I had a small tea party at my place to celebrate my birthday with people who are close to my heart.. It was one of the first birthdays I actually cooked and baked quite a lot for myself cos mum had hurt her hand, so she couldn't do much cooking.. Thank God for my auntie and cousins who were around helping as well..

Then it was time to head of to Ipoh for Lynn's wedding.. We went a few days earlier to just help her with whatever was needed and just be there with her.. Turns out that there wasn't really much to do except to eat at dinners after dinners.. haha.. Something I'm good at!! I love food!!

We drove Lynn around to get her Henna amongst other stuff done..

This picture was taken with her the morning of her wedding itself.. Before she headed off to the temple to get married.. It was a Hindu wedding..

Was waiting to head over to the groom's house for Paal Palam (not sure if I got the spelling rite).. It'a a ceremony where they'll mix milk, fruits, sweets and some other stuff together in a glass.. then all the other married couples will have to give it to the couple to drink a little of it.. I'm not sure what's the significance of this ceremony..

Then on the wedding night, the bride's family threw a BBQ at their place..

The wedding reception was on the following night.. A photo with the bride and groom..

The same day I came back from Ipoh from the wedding, I headed off for HUGE camp at Tiara Beach Resort, PD. I had exactly 35 mins to attend to my dog, clean the house a bit, bathe and pack for camp from the time I reached home to the time I needed to go to church so as to not miss the bus..

This camp was really different for me from the one I attended in 2001.. Sigh! Was it that long ago? The first HUGE I attended was right after my SPM, it was also the year I had just joined GT.. Made so many new friends and I remembered receiving so much from camp.. Even a word by PJK which I see coming through only this year.. Maybe I'll blog about it much later..

It was also a great time of bonding and sharing intimate secrets with the girls.. Many other 'interesting' events also took place.. =)

Our cell "Love is in the Air" party was just last Friday.. Didn't take that many good pictures.. Will try to upload some later from other friends.. We had a total of 44 people and 26 of them were first time visitors.. All the planning and preparations was certainly worth it.. Seeds were sown.. All Glory to God!!!

I'm all in the Christmas-y mood now.. Christmas tree is up.. Pressie for most of family members have been bought, wrapped and under the tree.. Heading out in a bit to get pressies for my parents, buy some stuff to start baking cookies.. Look's like my plan for this week is pretty much all figured out..

Yesterday - Christmas party at Jasmina's

Today - Baking, Shopping, Christmas Dinner at a friend's

Tomorrow - More baking and shopping, Dinner with Rita & Yianni

Wednesday - Christmas Eve service at Revival church

Thursday - Christmas service at GT, Lunch at Carmen's

Friday - Head off to Ipoh for the day to visit family and pass pressies

Saturday - YA Service at GT

Sunday - Christmas Dinner at Nigel's

No Words!