#628

These angels have stolen my heart.

Praying for everyone of you and missing your little chatters.

#628

These angels have stolen my heart.

Praying for everyone of you and missing your little chatters.

The Friendship Exodus,

Lately with all the sharing of articles, vines, videos and etc. on facebook, I feel like this social network has become somewhat crowded. However on rare occasions, you find some titles that catches your eye. For me, this was an eye-catcher, "The Friendship Exodus of Your 20s". One of my ex- schoolmate shared it. (read it here) Okay maybe the fact that i'm barely 20 doesn't qualify me for it but I still find it somewhat relevant. Considering the fact that I left home immediately after high school to study else where. I found some truth in it. Anyway, what is a friend?

First and foremost, friends don't let each other do silly things alone.

All through high school i've had the craziest bunch of friends. Shouting when no one was, making a big havoc in school events, shouting like baboons when someone we knew went up the stage. This is something I didn't miss in Uni. Instead it "leveled-up". Honestly, my class is one heck of a group. Their insane - no joke. But there was this one person contributing to the majority of insanity among us all - this girl friend was a genius, hence uni classes were like play time to her. Always making a huge deal about everything - basically there were just noisy. Yea, you guys are probably rolling your eyes in frustration. I know, there's always that one person who never studies in school but yet gets all the HDs and A*. Despite feeling annoyed sometimes, you cannot help but join in all the silly things she does. In one occasion, she had this clump of raffia string, (like a mini mop without the stick) and knowing her, she put it on her head, and started laughing like crazy. On the same day, she was dressed in overalls and a very bright green shirt. Oh and a neon coloured beanie....... We've been embarrassed all the times we've stayed back to study in the open lab, library etc. But its okay, as long as we're being silly together, craziest class/bunch of friends I must say.

Secondly, friends break the rules together. Ngeheh

I remember my last night in Swinburne so clearly. We came back from a rather fancy hangout place "Porkies". Feeling so flyyy and it was only 10pm, so we decided to get tea and coffee and hangout in uni. Technically hanging out in Uni is allowed (considering there were 24/7 study hubs and labs), but we were on the bridge. Since semester 1 we have spent late nights on that bridge. Especially after exams. So anyway we went up again and decided to play truth or dare. After awhile, we noticed that there were guards posted under the bridge. We really did try to keep our noise level down, but then it was JJ's turn. His dare was to dance like the Miley in "Wrecking ball" (his favourite song btw). Silly boi, dance until the guard saw us and started shouting..........  towards our direction, (he could not see all of us). Like naive kids we immediately ran. I know it was not a big deal but the adrenaline pumping through my blood into my heart was like before a race. No, we did not get caught but it felt like such a bad-ass thing to do. Haha by the time we sat down again our faces were all flushed. Oh and during our supper sessions (12am onwards) we've sat in the middle of the main road, and took pictures to prove to our other classmates. Lolol,  sneak into the gym without cards.  Okayyyy maybe not breaking the rules or being so bad-ass but you get the point.

Friends are always up for adventures!

After our very first semester we packed our cars and set out to the beach. So syok cause finals were over. Being the cheapskates we were; we only booked a room for 15 of us. I wasn't planning to stay but around 8 of them were. Well they ended up camping at a nearby R&R sorta complex playing truth or dare. Sleepless the whole night. Oh and for the magazine we produced we spent hours taking decent photos. On the pedestrian bridge. Once we wanted a decent light photo with a dark background. We went into the eerie multi-storey car park. One of my buds saw something. We left and never talked about it again. Friends are always up for adventures, even if it means a movie that starts in 10 mins.. Or midnight cravings for Mcd, Spaghetti day, Omelette competitions, late night suppers. Adventures also consist of sweaty Sundays lugging my stuff over to a new rooms - and cleaning up afterwards. But mostly, adventures are suppers, suppers and more suppers.

Finally, no matter what friends are always there for you.

Even if it means a text to make you smile, skype calls, or random buzzes. Distance don't matter yo. Friends are the ones that will take you to two hospitals at 10pm on a school night just for your silly sprained ankle. Friends are those that buys you starbucks just because you're going to see the doctor. And friends are always the ones you have supper with. Whether its the day before finals, or after. It don't matter yo, friends are always there for you. Always.

THAT IS WHY I LOVE YOU GUYS, TWENTY FORCES.

It is sad that the next chapter of my life does not revolve around you guys, but I love the times we've had together.  Bros for life k.

However dear readers, if you have not experienced any kind of friendships or prefer to be alone all the time - worry not. This is why God invented:

And the story of your life can be like me rn:

On a more serious note, this cliché saying seems more than relevant.

"Friends listen to your stories, best friends create them with you"

"People and priorities spread apart -- moving away, following different paths and new dreams. It's neither leaving each other behind nor choosing something better, but the natural exodus of friendship in your twenties. It's a time of change and goodbyes, of new beginnings somewhere else and making it on your own. A period of coming and going, of clinging to the familiar while simultaneously flinging yourself into the unknown. " (Source)

Photo credits here.

 

The Friendship Exodus,

Lately with all the sharing of articles, vines, videos and etc. on facebook, I feel like this social network has become somewhat crowded. However on rare occasions, you find some titles that catches your eye. For me, this was an eye-catcher, "The Friendship Exodus of Your 20s". One of my ex- schoolmate shared it. (read it here) Okay maybe the fact that i'm barely 20 doesn't qualify me for it but I still find it somewhat relevant. Considering the fact that I left home immediately after high school to study else where. I found some truth in it. Anyway, what is a friend? 

First and foremost, friends don't let each other do silly things alone.

All through high school i've had the craziest bunch of friends. Shouting when no one was, making a big havoc in school events, shouting like baboons when someone we knew went up the stage. This is something I didn't miss in Uni. Instead it "leveled-up". Honestly, my class is one heck of a group. Their insane - no joke. But there was this one person contributing to the majority of insanity among us all - this girl friend was a genius, hence uni classes were like play time to her. Always making a huge deal about everything - basically there were just noisy. Yea, you guys are probably rolling your eyes in frustration. I know, there's always that one person who never studies in school but yet gets all the HDs and A*. Despite feeling annoyed sometimes, you cannot help but join in all the silly things she does. In one occasion, she had this clump of raffia string, (like a mini mop without the stick) and knowing her, she put it on her head, and started laughing like crazy. On the same day, she was dressed in overalls and a very bright green shirt. Oh and a neon coloured beanie....... We've been embarrassed all the times we've stayed back to study in the open lab, library etc. But its okay, as long as we're being silly together, craziest class/bunch of friends I must say.

Secondly, friends break the rules together. Ngeheh

I remember my last night in Swinburne so clearly. We came back from a rather fancy hangout place "Porkies". Feeling so flyyy and it was only 10pm, so we decided to get tea and coffee and hangout in uni. Technically hanging out in Uni is allowed (considering there were 24/7 study hubs and labs), but we were on the bridge. Since semester 1 we have spent late nights on that bridge. Especially after exams. So anyway we went up again and decided to play truth or dare. After awhile, we noticed that there were guards posted under the bridge. We really did try to keep our noise level down, but then it was JJ's turn. His dare was to dance like the Miley in "Wrecking ball" (his favourite song btw). Silly boi, dance until the guard saw us and started shouting..........  towards our direction, (he could not see all of us). Like naive kids we immediately ran. I know it was not a big deal but the adrenaline pumping through my blood into my heart was like before a race. No, we did not get caught but it felt like such a bad-ass thing to do. Haha by the time we sat down again our faces were all flushed. Oh and during our supper sessions (12am onwards) we've sat in the middle of the main road, and took pictures to prove to our other classmates. Lolol,  sneak into the gym without cards.  Okayyyy maybe not breaking the rules or being so bad-ass but you get the point.

Friends are always up for adventures!

After our very first semester we packed our cars and set out to the beach. So syok cause finals were over. Being the cheapskates we were; we only booked a room for 15 of us. I wasn't planning to stay but around 8 of them were. Well they ended up camping at a nearby R&R sorta complex playing truth or dare. Sleepless the whole night. Oh and for the magazine we produced we spent hours taking decent photos. On the pedestrian bridge. Once we wanted a decent light photo with a dark background. We went into the eerie multi-storey car park. One of my buds saw something. We left and never talked about it again. Friends are always up for adventures, even if it means a movie that starts in 10 mins.. Or midnight cravings for Mcd, Spaghetti day, Omelette competitions, late night suppers. Adventures also consist of sweaty Sundays lugging my stuff over to a new rooms - and cleaning up afterwards. But mostly, adventures are suppers, suppers and more suppers.

Finally, no matter what friends are always there for you.

Even if it means a text to make you smile, skype calls, or random buzzes. Distance don't matter yo. Friends are the ones that will take you to two hospitals at 10pm on a school night just for your silly sprained ankle. Friends are those that buys you starbucks just because you're going to see the doctor. And friends are always the ones you have supper with. Whether its the day before finals, or after. It don't matter yo, friends are always there for you. Always.

THAT IS WHY I LOVE YOU GUYS, TWENTY FORCES.

It is sad that the next chapter of my life does not revolve around you guys, but I love the times we've had together.  Bros for life k.

However dear readers, if you have not experienced any kind of friendships or prefer to be alone all the time - worry not. This is why God invented:

And the story of your life can be like me rn:

On a more serious note, this cliché saying seems more than relevant.

"Friends listen to your stories, best friends create them with you"

"People and priorities spread apart -- moving away, following different paths and new dreams. It's neither leaving each other behind nor choosing something better, but the natural exodus of friendship in your twenties. It's a time of change and goodbyes, of new beginnings somewhere else and making it on your own. A period of coming and going, of clinging to the familiar while simultaneously flinging yourself into the unknown. " (Source)

Photo credits here.

#626

Believing this right now. Because I am so weak, but Jesus is strong. Little sister told me news I didn't want to hear earlier today. Taking a step back, God reminded me He has the bigger picture in mind. It was always meant for nothing but the very best. Only when we are weak He can be strong. Since there is nothing we can do, the only option left is to trust God alone. To have hope a little more, in God.

Hope.

That's what keeps us alive.

#626

Believing this right now. Because I am so weak, but Jesus is strong. Little sister told me news I didn't want to hear earlier today. Taking a step back, God reminded me He has the bigger picture in mind. It was always meant for nothing but the very best. Only when we are weak He can be strong. Since there is nothing we can do, the only option left is to trust God alone. To have hope a little more, in God.

Hope.

That's what keeps us alive.

#625 Hey brother,

There's an endless road to rediscover,

We can go, penang Char kuay tiaw and Asam Laksa!

hahah. Never been a fan of rave and Aviici kinda music till the kids in Cambodia make me listen to it. Idk if I spelled it correctly. Haha anway, being back home is nice. Very very nice, sometimes I wish my brother was home now too. Oh the joy, I can only wait for the day he comes home - and pray I'll be home too.

Well, Kor if you were home now we'd be in the mamak watching you swallow down plates of Maggi Goreng and whatever you feel like having. Hee.

One day.

Till then, lets focus on the present blessings. Beyond blessed to have grown up with so many cousins. Despite the distance, Kor always say, "Blood is thicker than water."
Wishing my cousins - Ignatius, Cyreah, and Sharon a very happy birthday. April babies. Spent the whole day out with them today (legs almost killed me shhh don't tell my mummy ). I don't know if I will be able to fly back this Gawai.

About my knees, this Friday is my scan. Hoping they will be able to diagnose the problem. Would appreciate prayers!


GOD BLESS!

Ps/ today Obama came to Malaysia. Figured it's worth mentioning just for memories sake.

Pps/ A good read about dating/courtship. Just another perspective.

#625 Hey brother,

There's an endless road to rediscover,

We can go, penang Char kuay tiaw and Asam Laksa!

hahah. Never been a fan of rave and Aviici kinda music till the kids in Cambodia make me listen to it. Idk if I spelled it correctly. Haha anway, being back home is nice. Very very nice, sometimes I wish my brother was home now too. Oh the joy, I can only wait for the day he comes home - and pray I'll be home too.

Well, Kor if you were home now we'd be in the mamak watching you swallow down plates of Maggi Goreng and whatever you feel like having. Hee.

One day.

Till then, lets focus on the present blessings. Beyond blessed to have grown up with so many cousins. Despite the distance, Kor always say, "Blood is thicker than water."
Wishing my cousins - Ignatius, Cyreah, and Sharon a very happy birthday. April babies. Spent the whole day out with them today (legs almost killed me shhh don't tell my mummy ). I don't know if I will be able to fly back this Gawai.

About my knees, this Friday is my scan. Hoping they will be able to diagnose the problem. Would appreciate prayers!


GOD BLESS!

Ps/ today Obama came to Malaysia. Figured it's worth mentioning just for memories sake.

Pps/ A good read about dating/courtship. Just another perspective.

Naive brains like mine ponder on endless possibilities. Only to be smacked in the face with reality. Got to face the truth - wake up and stop dreaming.

I just don't get it. Ugh where is Kor when I need him? Thousands of miles away. Sighs!

On a more informative note, my cousin Ben got admitted to the hospital for suspected dengue today. God's healing hands are upon him, he was feeling so much better when we visited. Travelled to KL with dad. Ugh so frustrating sometimes because he doesn't know the roads. Should really get rid of his driver so he doesn't get too dependant. Sighs again. But thankfully we reached before visiting hours were over.

Naive brains like mine ponder on endless possibilities. Only to be smacked in the face with reality. Got to face the truth - wake up and stop dreaming.

I just don't get it. Ugh where is Kor when I need him? Thousands of miles away. Sighs!

On a more informative note, my cousin Ben got admitted to the hospital for suspected dengue today. God's healing hands are upon him, he was feeling so much better when we visited. Travelled to KL with dad. Ugh so frustrating sometimes because he doesn't know the roads. Should really get rid of his driver so he doesn't get too dependant. Sighs again. But thankfully we reached before visiting hours were over.

Throwback to thinner days of me,

Reality hit me - I am so fat compared to back then haha heheh ehhohohoh

Throwback to thinner days of me,

Reality hit me - I am so fat compared to back then haha heheh ehhohohoh

#622

the ugly truth. credits

Last night was horrendous. I stayed awake till the morning, writhing in pain. I have never experienced such intense pain in my knees. Okay maybe I have, since this injury. But it was a long time since i've felt so weak. But then again I am too proud to admit the pain and I know that in the morning I'll be perfectly fine again. My legs will find new strength for the day.

Yes too proud to admit pain you may ask? This is because my parents will start blaming me for not taking care of myself. On top of that they will probably add a hundred more restrictions to the "forbidden when injured" list. Lately, mum even added driving to that list. Driving me insane really hahahah. Besides, i'm not even allowed to go out much because my legs need to rest. Okay maybe they want the best for me. But I cannot..hence, why it is easier to not admit pain.


I just hope it will go away.

Anyway, the rainy gloomy day is a perfect start for studying. Don't mind me but I love rainy days, the sound of rain. The cooling air. Running after the rain at night - pure bliss. Feeling so restless; sitting down to study again. Everyone assured me it will be easy but I do not want to be unprepared. Seriously hoping to please the admissions board.


7/8 more weeks till I pack up and leave again! In the meantime, I am loving it back home. (Apart from curfews of course). I have the luxury to cook as long as I want, and listen to my baby sister's opinion about the food. Honestly, sometimes I think I cook just to please her and not everyone else. But all is cool. She won't be this innocent for long. Oh and idk why I am actually writing here. I think its funny how I read back and thank God for not being so silly once. Whatever the reasons are, blogging is cool. Great for reflections. True story. Think about it!


Okay bye, God bless!

#622

the ugly truth. credits

Last night was horrendous. I stayed awake till the morning, writhing in pain. I have never experienced such intense pain in my knees. Okay maybe I have, since this injury. But it was a long time since i've felt so weak. But then again I am too proud to admit the pain and I know that in the morning I'll be perfectly fine again. My legs will find new strength for the day.

Yes too proud to admit pain you may ask? This is because my parents will start blaming me for not taking care of myself. On top of that they will probably add a hundred more restrictions to the "forbidden when injured" list. Lately, mum even added driving to that list. Driving me insane really hahahah. Besides, i'm not even allowed to go out much because my legs need to rest. Okay maybe they want the best for me. But I cannot..hence, why it is easier to not admit pain.


I just hope it will go away.

Anyway, the rainy gloomy day is a perfect start for studying. Don't mind me but I love rainy days, the sound of rain. The cooling air. Running after the rain at night - pure bliss. Feeling so restless; sitting down to study again. Everyone assured me it will be easy but I do not want to be unprepared. Seriously hoping to please the admissions board.


7/8 more weeks till I pack up and leave again! In the meantime, I am loving it back home. (Apart from curfews of course). I have the luxury to cook as long as I want, and listen to my baby sister's opinion about the food. Honestly, sometimes I think I cook just to please her and not everyone else. But all is cool. She won't be this innocent for long. Oh and idk why I am actually writing here. I think its funny how I read back and thank God for not being so silly once. Whatever the reasons are, blogging is cool. Great for reflections. True story. Think about it!


Okay bye, God bless!

#621

Hello everyone. 

I needed to share this to everyone so here is a blogpost. On Monday, we were going to have lunch with my Aunt who just flew in. We decided at the shops nearby Tiffany's school. Because it was supposed to be dinner, lunch was a last minute plan. Anyways, the previous day was church.

I used a purse/sling bag. My usual black purse would not fit this little sling bag so I shifted my license and money into the smaller green purse. Well, not a very wise move shifting important documents if you were me.

I quickly grabbed my license and IC so I can drive. (Silly me. I was too lazy to locate my usual black purse... it was somewhere in my room.) And so I shoved it into my pockets. I was wearing lazy pants, but the pockets content would not spill out unless I take something. That I am very sure, and hence that was my mistake.

Yup.

You guessed correctly, I lost my driving license. I made mom drive me back to the exact same place and looked everywhere. Thankfully we went back. As we were about to drive off (I couldn't find the license anywhere.), this Indian security guard stopped us. He gestured as if he was trying to tell us something, so we hesitantly opened the window. Then it went like this,

Guard: "Are you looking for a license ah girl?"

Me: "Yes yes, have you seen it?"

Guard: "Oh your house address is _______ right?"

Me: "Correct, yes!"

Guard: "Oh you dropped it right? Don't worry, I already ask someone to send it to your house address already, I wrote 'Citibank Guard'. Told him to drop it in your post box."

Me: "Really? Thank you so much! Thank you sir, thank you, thank you, thanks again!"

Drove back home to find this wrapped around my license in the postbox:

I couldn't believe myself. How careless I was, yet God turned it 180 degrees around. Seriously one of my reasons why I have faith in God. Hahaha so funny how I suddenly start praying in tongues for my lost license.

Anyway, God is good all the time.

God bless.

:)

#621

Hello everyone. 

I needed to share this to everyone so here is a blogpost. On Monday, we were going to have lunch with my Aunt who just flew in. We decided at the shops nearby Tiffany's school. Because it was supposed to be dinner, lunch was a last minute plan. Anyways, the previous day was church.

I used a purse/sling bag. My usual black purse would not fit this little sling bag so I shifted my license and money into the smaller green purse. Well, not a very wise move shifting important documents if you were me.

I quickly grabbed my license and IC so I can drive. (Silly me. I was too lazy to locate my usual black purse... it was somewhere in my room.) And so I shoved it into my pockets. I was wearing lazy pants, but the pockets content would not spill out unless I take something. That I am very sure, and hence that was my mistake.

Yup.

You guessed correctly, I lost my driving license. I made mom drive me back to the exact same place and looked everywhere. Thankfully we went back. As we were about to drive off (I couldn't find the license anywhere.), this Indian security guard stopped us. He gestured as if he was trying to tell us something, so we hesitantly opened the window. Then it went like this,

Guard: "Are you looking for a license ah girl?"

Me: "Yes yes, have you seen it?"

Guard: "Oh your house address is _______ right?"

Me: "Correct, yes!"

Guard: "Oh you dropped it right? Don't worry, I already ask someone to send it to your house address already, I wrote 'Citibank Guard'. Told him to drop it in your post box."

Me: "Really? Thank you so much! Thank you sir, thank you, thank you, thanks again!"

Drove back home to find this wrapped around my license in the postbox:

I couldn't believe myself. How careless I was, yet God turned it 180 degrees around. Seriously one of my reasons why I have faith in God. Hahaha so funny how I suddenly start praying in tongues for my lost license.

Anyway, God is good all the time.

God bless.

:)

#620 Khmai New Year

The kids have gone back for the holidays - Khmai New year is just around the corner. I'm praying for everyone of them to have a blessed time and take care of themselves. Oh how I miss each and everyone of their beautiful faces. I will always be grateful for my family of 100, love them all.

To all the lovely Cambodians celebrating:
Happy Khmai New Year!

Kuoa, Sok Chit, Seha, Narun

Till today everything still reminds me of them. I see my phone and remember them 'fighting' over who sticks the screen protector nicer. I see my camera ( The eye focus rubber thing came loose, almost 3 year old camera ) and I remember Kim Meng refusing to fix it; but does it anyway. So excellently in face it looks close to perfect. I will always remember the time spent there.

De-briefing was over and I told Pastor I am willing to do it all over again - and I meant it.




God bless!

#620 Khmai New Year

The kids have gone back for the holidays - Khmai New year is just around the corner. I'm praying for everyone of them to have a blessed time and take care of themselves. Oh how I miss each and everyone of their beautiful faces. I will always be grateful for my family of 100, love them all.

To all the lovely Cambodians celebrating:
Happy Khmai New Year!

Kuoa, Sok Chit, Seha, Narun

Till today everything still reminds me of them. I see my phone and remember them 'fighting' over who sticks the screen protector nicer. I see my camera ( The eye focus rubber thing came loose, almost 3 year old camera ) and I remember Kim Meng refusing to fix it; but does it anyway. So excellently in face it looks close to perfect. I will always remember the time spent there.

De-briefing was over and I told Pastor I am willing to do it all over again - and I meant it.




God bless!

#619

FGA Childcare Center, Kampung Speu

02 March 2014 - 30 March 2014

Hello everybody. In February, I decided to visit the Childcare Center for a month. I wouldn't call it a mission trip because I didn't exactly share the gospel to anyone. Honestly it wasn't what I planned. I wanted to go on Logos Hope and have the "experience of my life" like my brother. Haha. Turns out God works differently for everyone. But I hope my presence has impacted those around me. With that being said I will share the highlights of my trip (in this post or maybe the next few to come). What I find most interesting, what I miss, what I love about the place, and maybe even what I do not like? Stick with me, I hope you'll find this a good read. Here goes:

When we left home at 4 am I had so many doubts - honestly. I've heard great things about the center, but I have no idea if the kids would like me, I kept rethinking if a month was too long. Whether I'd be missing out on anything when I was gone. The list goes on. Anyways, excitement quickly overshadowed my doubts. After I found John, we met Yee Pei, we were on the same flight and we sat together. She was going to work with the IVHQ (International Volunteers Headquarters). Despite our sleepy faces God greeted us with a sunrise, shortly before arrival. Sadly I didn't get a good shot, but this will suffice.

Walking through immigration alone for the first time was surreal. The fact that my parents aren't around I mean. So different from local flights (To Kuching, Swinburne)  Walked through the outdoor-alongside-a-garden walk way out to the arrival lounge - so very different from air-conditioned marble floors. When we arrived outside we immediately saw Yeepei's organisation representative with the IVHQ sign so we hugged goodbye. She didn't get to drop by the FGA CCC cause I left too early. Shortly afterwards we saw Uncle Sunny. Immediately he started a conversation with us. When we got into the car he got to know John and where he's from etc. After exiting the airport, Uncle switched modes to a tour guide. Literally; ahahaha he introduced famous prisons, schools, factories. If at any point of his life he decides not to direct the FGA CCC he can totally pass for a Tourist Guide in Cambodia. But. Jokes aside, he really knows things and made the drive seem very short; he even informed us that the king just died. We had a really lively conversation going till we reached Kampung Speu, about 45 minutes drive. 

The kids have just finished service with Aunty Kim. She was sharing that day. They we just sitting around, probably uninformed of our arrival hence, blank stares followed us till we entered Uncle's house. I got a nice cosy bedroom with my own bathroom (I found out later their school's principle, Teacher Poh Chin stayed there for a year and they nicknamed it Poh Chin's room). My bags were locked so I borrowed Aunty Kim's slipper. We went for lunch soon enough and found out about the finals - the football league. 

After a short nap we both decided to go, but John overslept. So, I went into Uncle's car. It was my first day, truth be told I forgot their names the second after they told me. Nevertheless, my penpal and her twin Siang Eng and Siang Ee were there, so I stayed with them. First day of having so much dust in my feet. In my face. But its okay, I took some pretty nice shots. Went back, had dinner. Aunty went back to the youth house in Phnom Penh. Not sure if I joined their tuition that night but I slept well. That was day one.

I'll break it down into weeks to simplify things:

Week 1: We stayed at home (the center) to wrap the library books, do puzzles etc. On Wednesday Uncle brought us to the market - he was afraid we would die of boredom. Haha jokes. We also stopped by their school to see the principle. Went to school for two days: observed on those days. Weekends the kids helped us wrap. (After their chores of course). It was like a gotong-royong. When Uncle Sunny was not around Aunty Kim came. We spent the Sat night eating mangoes, talking and laughing under the tamarind tree. The boys had endless stories of ghostly encounters, farting stories and so many. Laughed till it hurt. Really. Honestly, working with John was not easy at first. I think he knows it too. Haha. But thankfully the Lord gave me a new grace, more patience and this made me grateful to be placed with him. I learned that it was His plan to understand others more instead of selfishly getting things done my way. For that I am grateful and thankful to have John around. And, yes before you judge: in the end we managed to agree and we got along. I'm kidding about the judging part, haha but for the curious ones, in case you are wondering.

Week 2: Went to school 4/5 days. My reason: bored and sick. Teacher made us go back to wrap books, and for John, to draw.. and so we did. Obviously John got to do something he did and I just became a professional book wrapper. Yeap, certified in fact. Haha! On the brighter note, we got coconuts to drink too! In the crazy hot weather it was like heaven especially chilled ones. Mmm.. Meanwhile, in the center we got most of the wrapping done. Taped the labels and numbers while typing the books into the system. Occasionally I got so tired I let the boys type it in. It is funny seeing them looking for alphabets on the keyboard, haha typing lessons 101. But they didn't mind, and neither did I so everyone was happy. Soon after that we made envelopes and when she was around Aunty helped cut the cards and write on it. That Saturday, after helping the girls sweep and pick up the rubbish, Uncle Sunny made pancakes for our breakfast! A rare occasion according to Aunty. Hahaha, I miss being in their home sometimes. Anyways, that weekend during service Uncle spoke about friends - choosing them wisely. By that time I remembered 3/4 of the kids name! Okay I still had to guess sometimes. But trust me it was not very easy. On Sunday I got to go to the village to see the Grade 9's class. Afterwards Mum Lee took us to her place. It was really nice. She had a very nice garden and two very adorable dogs. 

Week 3: By this week I was very close to the kids already. Specially the little ones and the girls in Lamb dorm. Spent naps with them, study sessions, night tuitions too without a doubt. At night we assisted them with whatever we could, but trust me - we always end up talking. Talking about Malay (In Khmai they call Malaysia: Malay), places they wish they could go, people they like, their families. About the happenings in school, center and etc. Wednesday and Sunday I got to see to villages where the Grade 9 and 10 teach. On Wednesday the tuk-tuk driver took us all to his house. His wife was almost going to give birth. :) That Friday I skipped school to go to Srey Touc's village. It was around 20 mins on motor. Her brother-in-law picked us up. I know it was a dangerous thing to do, get on a strangers motorbike in an unknown land, but I got back safe and sound hey! It was great to see the village life anyways. Despite the poverty of the families there I could see the contentment on their faces. With the little they have, they live, they play, and they love. That's what matters most. They just need Jesus. Someday.. someday. That weekend, we finished up the library work. Mostly I lazed around with the girls. Something big happened. Well not exactly but one of the girls had a panic attack - which led to a series of events, but that shall be a story for another day. I learned how to elevate drips, remove them and faced my fear of needles. Ugh kind of terrifying, really an experience. 

Week 4: Kim Meng wanted to go to the village with me since forever to get me a new phone case. They said mine is so aloi. One of the girls got me a screen protector for 2500 riels, and the boys helped me stick it on. On Monday I skipped school again to finish up the books. Realised that there were some left undone because the girls cleaned up and left some books hidden. So that Monday I got the work done, Sross was a sweetheart and sat down with me for 4 hours. Writing cards. That time, the mothers got into a huge disagreement but he stayed with me and talked as if nothing happened. Uncle Sunny came to make sure I got rest, water etc haha. Finally went for lunch when the kids came. The rest of the week was sad. Took a group picture after prayer meeting on Wednesday and joined their combined prayer meeting the next morning. On Thursday I made everyone take pictures with me. Friday everyone asked if I was really leaving the next day. Some of them thought I was just kidding haha. 

And so, if you're reading all the way till here, congratulations! Pray about going to see these wonderful kids okay. Yes it was a joke. But if, on any occasion, if you happen to be there, send them my love. 

More than a week has passed since I left. My heart hurts less but I've never stopped missing them as much. Pictures are up on Facebook here. I'll try to add more captions too tell more. :)

God bless.

cambodia 2014

FGA Childcare Center, Kampung Speu

02 March 2014 - 30 March 2014

Hello everybody. In February, I decided to visit the Childcare Center for a month. I wouldn't call it a mission trip because I didn't exactly share the gospel to anyone. Honestly it wasn't what I planned. I wanted to go on Logos Hope and have the "experience of my life" like my brother. Haha. Turns out God works differently for everyone. But I hope my presence has impacted those around me. With that being said I will share the highlights of my trip (in this post or maybe the next few to come). What I find most interesting, what I miss, what I love about the place, and maybe even what I do not like? Stick with me, I hope you'll find this a good read. Here goes:

When we left home at 4 am I had so many doubts - honestly. I've heard great things about the center, but I have no idea if the kids would like me, I kept rethinking if a month was too long. Whether I'd be missing out on anything when I was gone. The list goes on. Anyways, excitement quickly overshadowed my doubts. After I found John, we met Yee Pei, we were on the same flight and we sat together. She was going to work with the IVHQ (International Volunteers Headquarters). Despite our sleepy faces God greeted us with a sunrise, shortly before arrival. Sadly I didn't get a good shot, but this will suffice.

Walking through immigration alone for the first time was surreal. The fact that my parents aren't around I mean. So different from local flights (To Kuching, Swinburne)  Walked through the outdoor-alongside-a-garden walk way out to the arrival lounge - so very different from air-conditioned marble floors. When we arrived outside we immediately saw Yeepei's organisation representative with the IVHQ sign so we hugged goodbye. She didn't get to drop by the FGA CCC cause I left too early. Shortly afterwards we saw Uncle Sunny. Immediately he started a conversation with us. When we got into the car he got to know John and where he's from etc. After exiting the airport, Uncle switched modes to a tour guide. Literally; ahahaha he introduced famous prisons, schools, factories. If at any point of his life he decides not to direct the FGA CCC he can totally pass for a Tourist Guide in Cambodia. But. Jokes aside, he really knows things and made the drive seem very short; he even informed us that the king just died. We had a really lively conversation going till we reached Kampung Speu, about 45 minutes drive. 

The kids have just finished service with Aunty Kim. She was sharing that day. They we just sitting around, probably uninformed of our arrival hence, blank stares followed us till we entered Uncle's house. I got a nice cosy bedroom with my own bathroom (I found out later their school's principle, Teacher Poh Chin stayed there for a year and they nicknamed it Poh Chin's room). My bags were locked so I borrowed Aunty Kim's slipper. We went for lunch soon enough and found out about the finals - the football league. 

After a short nap we both decided to go, but John overslept. So, I went into Uncle's car. It was my first day, truth be told I forgot their names the second after they told me. Nevertheless, my penpal and her twin Siang Eng and Siang Ee were there, so I stayed with them. First day of having so much dust in my feet. In my face. But its okay, I took some pretty nice shots. Went back, had dinner. Aunty went back to the youth house in Phnom Penh. Not sure if I joined their tuition that night but I slept well. That was day one.

I'll break it down into weeks to simplify things:

Week 1: We stayed at home (the center) to wrap the library books, do puzzles etc. On Wednesday Uncle brought us to the market - he was afraid we would die of boredom. Haha jokes. We also stopped by their school to see the principle. Went to school for two days: observed on those days. Weekends the kids helped us wrap. (After their chores of course). It was like a gotong-royong. When Uncle Sunny was not around Aunty Kim came. We spent the Sat night eating mangoes, talking and laughing under the tamarind tree. The boys had endless stories of ghostly encounters, farting stories and so many. Laughed till it hurt. Really. Honestly, working with John was not easy at first. I think he knows it too. Haha. But thankfully the Lord gave me a new grace, more patience and this made me grateful to be placed with him. I learned that it was His plan to understand others more instead of selfishly getting things done my way. For that I am grateful and thankful to have John around. And, yes before you judge: in the end we managed to agree and we got along. I'm kidding about the judging part, haha but for the curious ones, in case you are wondering.

Week 2: Went to school 4/5 days. My reason: bored and sick. Teacher made us go back to wrap books, and for John, to draw.. and so we did. Obviously John got to do something he did and I just became a professional book wrapper. Yeap, certified in fact. Haha! On the brighter note, we got coconuts to drink too! In the crazy hot weather it was like heaven especially chilled ones. Mmm.. Meanwhile, in the center we got most of the wrapping done. Taped the labels and numbers while typing the books into the system. Occasionally I got so tired I let the boys type it in. It is funny seeing them looking for alphabets on the keyboard, haha typing lessons 101. But they didn't mind, and neither did I so everyone was happy. Soon after that we made envelopes and when she was around Aunty helped cut the cards and write on it. That Saturday, after helping the girls sweep and pick up the rubbish, Uncle Sunny made pancakes for our breakfast! A rare occasion according to Aunty. Hahaha, I miss being in their home sometimes. Anyways, that weekend during service Uncle spoke about friends - choosing them wisely. By that time I remembered 3/4 of the kids name! Okay I still had to guess sometimes. But trust me it was not very easy. On Sunday I got to go to the village to see the Grade 9's class. Afterwards Mum Lee took us to her place. It was really nice. She had a very nice garden and two very adorable dogs. 

Week 3: By this week I was very close to the kids already. Specially the little ones and the girls in Lamb dorm. Spent naps with them, study sessions, night tuitions too without a doubt. At night we assisted them with whatever we could, but trust me - we always end up talking. Talking about Malay (In Khmai they call Malaysia: Malay), places they wish they could go, people they like, their families. About the happenings in school, center and etc. Wednesday and Sunday I got to see to villages where the Grade 9 and 10 teach. On Wednesday the tuk-tuk driver took us all to his house. His wife was almost going to give birth. :) That Friday I skipped school to go to Srey Touc's village. It was around 20 mins on motor. Her brother-in-law picked us up. I know it was a dangerous thing to do, get on a strangers motorbike in an unknown land, but I got back safe and sound hey! It was great to see the village life anyways. Despite the poverty of the families there I could see the contentment on their faces. With the little they have, they live, they play, and they love. That's what matters most. They just need Jesus. Someday.. someday. That weekend, we finished up the library work. Mostly I lazed around with the girls. Something big happened. Well not exactly but one of the girls had a panic attack - which led to a series of events, but that shall be a story for another day. I learned how to elevate drips, remove them and faced my fear of needles. Ugh kind of terrifying, really an experience. 

Week 4: Kim Meng wanted to go to the village with me since forever to get me a new phone case. They said mine is so aloi. One of the girls got me a screen protector for 2500 riels, and the boys helped me stick it on. On Monday I skipped school again to finish up the books. Realised that there were some left undone because the girls cleaned up and left some books hidden. So that Monday I got the work done, Sross was a sweetheart and sat down with me for 4 hours. Writing cards. That time, the mothers got into a huge disagreement but he stayed with me and talked as if nothing happened. Uncle Sunny came to make sure I got rest, water etc haha. Finally went for lunch when the kids came. The rest of the week was sad. Took a group picture after prayer meeting on Wednesday and joined their combined prayer meeting the next morning. On Thursday I made everyone take pictures with me. Friday everyone asked if I was really leaving the next day. Some of them thought I was just kidding haha. 

And so, if you're reading all the way till here, congratulations! Pray about going to see these wonderful kids okay. Yes it was a joke. But if, on any occasion, if you happen to be there, send them my love. 

More than a week has passed since I left. My heart hurts less but I've never stopped missing them as much. Pictures are up on Facebook here. I'll try to add more captions too tell more. :)

God bless.

News from not so far away

I am attempting to journal my Cambodia trip. So stay tuned.



xx


God bless.

Here's a verse:

Deuteronomy 2:7 “For the Lord your God has blessed you in all the work of your hand. He knows your trudging through this great wilderness. These forty years the Lord your God has been with you; you have lacked nothing.”




INCASE U MISSED IT, LINK IS HERE

News from not so far away

I am attempting to journal my Cambodia trip. So stay tuned.



God bless.

Here's a verse:
Deuteronomy 2:7 “For the Lord your God has blessed you in all the work of your hand. He knows your trudging through this great wilderness. These forty years the Lord your God has been with you; you have lacked nothing.”




update: INCASE U MISSED IT, LINK IS HERE