My Refuge. My Memories. My Dreams.

Hope

2012-03-02T09:17:00.000-08:00

Wow, it's 1:09am. Actually took nearly 3 hours to complete a simple powerpoint. Kids, please cherish your teacher's effort and be good tomorrow k.

Spent hours and days marking their exam papers. It was very disappointing. I told them what would come out, even drilled them in class. Senior teachers commented we new teachers still have a lot of love and passion for the students; but as months or years went by, we'll be demotivated by the students' lackadaisical attitude. Honestly, I am afraid of loosing my passion for teaching if I couldn't sense achievement or improvement in the students.

Dear God, please give me strength and wisdom in handling these 4 groups of weaker students. They are still so young and a bright future is awaiting them. Call me judgmental, but I think getting pregnant and married at the age of 17 is just too young!

Time for bed. Good night all :)

Program Penyayang

2012-02-29T02:57:00.001-08:00

Love will be spread in every school in Malaysia on 1 March 2012~ I thought the month of Valentine ended.

1. Teachers line up at the gate early morning to greet the students with a big smile.
2. Teachers help students to adjust their neckties.
3. Teacher praises students at each achievements.
4. Scoldings should be accompanied by a polite reason: because we love you...
5. Teacher makes birthday cards for students. 1952 students in SMK Kapit, 142 teachers.
6. Teacher shakes students hands before they go home.
7. Teacher rewards students who excel in exams.
8. Teacher organize fun activities like singing along with the class, often.

..............many laughed during this meeting. Personally, I am very eager to see how LOVEABLE our school will be starting tomorrow.

releasing stress

2012-02-24T23:25:00.003-08:00

Not going to bring my Remove Class kids to APD room anymore! Thought they'll be more interested but instead they just enjoy the aircon here, talk and play. How to teach them? They are really training my patience.

4th week here, and the government had paid me my salary. Mom said I should be patient and slowly teach them. But I've lost my voice, and have been coughing for the past few days. Waking up in the middle of the night due to dry cough is not FUN at all. I mean, if they are keen to learn, fine, I don't mind carrying laptop to school and borrowing LCD and spend time setting up.

But please, you are 13! Even my kindergarten kids are more well behaved.

No wonder all the senior teachers I sought advice told me LOVE is not the way to teach. The moment the students know you are soft they will climb onto your heads and that's it. A noisy class! The thing is, every weekend when I attend church, pastor will preach about Love, Patience etc.

Question to ponder: Have I love the wrong way?

Things to be grateful:
1. at least 16 students are doing their work and learning. Can I just punish those naughty kids who disrupt my class by asking them to wash the toilets?

Joy of the Day

2012-02-23T07:40:00.000-08:00

SALARY IS IN!! Woootsss!!!

Thank you, God! =)

Energetic

2012-02-22T06:17:00.004-08:00

Tonight's fellowship, we discussed about the topic "Energetic"

Weird scenarios:
1. Some youngsters look so haggard while some grandparents are so lively and energetic, do you know why?

2. Some new acquaintances are so boring while others can be approachable and fun to talk to. Do you know why this differences occur?

3. Some people fall asleep during class or meetings, but when it comes to picnics or outings, they can wake up as early as 4am to get ready. Why?

4. We feel sleepy while driving in a traffic jam, but when we kissed someone else's butt, we immediately wake up, why?

Are you an energetic person? This reminds me of the book entitled "The Secret" by Rhonda Byrne. Bryne highlights the mystery of "Law of Attraction" which basically says, positive thoughts will naturally attract positive energy into your life. Personally, I am easily fascinated by people who are energetic and have a clear goal in life. During my uni life, I've came across a few church leaders who can successfully juggle their studies and ministry at church, and still excel in sports and have an equally attractive gf/bf. How did they manage all those when some of us can barely excel one area of life?

My Best Friend

2012-02-21T07:42:00.003-08:00

Day: Tuesday Date: 21st February 2012

Topic: My Best Friend

Three years after I was born,mother walked me to kindergarten every Monday to Friday, carrying my bag, for 4years. There, I met a lot of friends, richfriends whose parents dropped them off in expensive cars. I remembered excelling in class by being thefirst few to finish the work given and receiving lots of stickers from those lovelyteachers. My first prince in shining armor appeared in my life when he held myarms and walked me to the staff’s room after I bleed my knee from a bad fall consequence of jumping offthe swing. Thanks daddy and mummy, forsaving so hard just to send the three of us to receive the exorbitantly priced earlyeducation.

At the age of 7, mother stillwalked me to school, carrying my heavy school bag as our house is just a stone’sthrow away from school. That year, I waselected as the class monitor, and for the next 5 years. I met many good friends, with one who becamemy best friend. We joined story telling competitionsand made it to inter-school speech competitions. We held hands everywhere we go; to the washroom,canteen, cinemas and window shopping. Thanksdaddy and mummy, for waking up so early everyday to prepare my favourite egg-cheese-baked beans sandwich, do thelaundry and not forgetting to feed us a mouthful of cod liver oil.

Entering Form 1, my primaryschool best friend and I started to drift apart. She managed to enter the best class while I wasbeing placed at the second class. We gradually became ‘Hi-Bye’ friends as wejoined different clubs and have different circle of friends. Today, she will extend friendship hugs when we meet. I was caught cheating in an exam, togetherwith the 7 other classmates. Failingthat paper was saddening; but having my name removed from the Prefectorial Board was even more heart wrenching. I rememberedcrying that day because my favorite form teacher said she was so disappointedin her girl’s action. Till today,I never bother to find out who betrayed our little mischief. Thank you teachers, for inspiring us toachieve our dreams and believing in giving second chances.

During the era of mIRC and ICQ,friendships started to blossom through the Internet and emerged through ‘morningsession handsome seniors-afternoon session pretty girls’ love letters. My best friend thoseyears was my neighbor. She went to a different primary school but later transferred to the same secondary school. We walked to and fro school daily. She matured into a beautiful young lady withlots of admirers. Today, despite entering the finalists for Miss Borneo, she never side lined this lazy-make-up old buddy of hers. We have been there foreach others' break up moments, through long hours of phone calls to writingletters when I furthered my studies away from home. Thank God, for though we are in differentfields now, we still make it a point to catch up for movies and pillow talksevery time I am back to my hometown.

During the final year forsecondary school, I lost a group of awesome friends due to a romancerelationship that did not work out. All ofthem are from wealthy families whose parents had signed up a secured seat forthem at the overseas universities, 2 years before they sat for their public exams. With their wisdom and luck to be born insilver spoons, most of them are now professionals with high pay jobsoverseas. Minus the kindergarten crush,this guy is considered as my first love. I do miss him occasionally. He didask for reconciliation 2 ½ years ago, but I was in a relationship then. Back then, we dated for movies with a groupof friends. I remembered him makingcarrot juice and sushi for me the gloomy day after my hamster passed away. The teddy bear in pyjamas and the bottle offolded-stars with a keychain of ournames are still safe and sound in my wardrobe. Thank you admirers, for making my simple life colourful for a few days, or months.

At the age of 18, I met thisawesome lady who became my best friend till today, and I hope will be till we see Father. She was selfless and excel in herstudies. She brought me to Christ – the bestpresent ever received. She was patientand helpful. And yes, she is finallyseeing someone so tender and loving. As herfriend, I felt happy to know that she is happily in love. Though we are posted to different schools,but thanks to technology, we practically know what is going on in each others’life. Can’t wait for the mid termholidays to catch up, dress up, gobbled up and praise the Lord together. Thank you buddy, I owe you this year’sbirthday present. Think of one asap ya.

3 years ago, I met this awesomeguy. No, he found me. Like any othercouple, we clicked. The fire sparked. Andlike any other couple, the fire dimmed and as the story line progresses, thecharacters changed their roles. At thedarkest point in life, God is always there to lift us up. “Footprints” is a beautiful poem that meant alot of many of us. Thank you dearest,for showing me what is love.

2012, thank you God for sendingso many friends to me. I realizedfriendship can be seasonal; some came and left footprints in our lives whileothers left scars which eventually healed as time passed; but God never fails us. A quarter of my life is gone. What lies ahead, whom will we meet, whythings happened, where will we go, how will our lives shaped what we will be;all these will remain a mystery; and mystery is appealing.

In conclusion, why did I spend 105 minuteswriting this and another 30minutes proof reading? Simply because this is the examination essay topic coming out nextTuesday. So, who is your best friend?Have you thank him/her for what they’ve done? Are there still rooms forreconciliation for those faded friendships? How will you cherish your current life? By chasing after wealth andreputation till neglecting friends who no longer bring you benefits? And finally, have you found your purpose here on Earth?

p/s Thismorning, I got to know a friend’s father passed away. I still owe him a book asa birthday present. He is an awesomeguy, with lots of interesting stories to share and I believe he will be onerespectable teacher. I believe he is anobedient and loving son and that his dad will be watching proudly at his son fromabove.

Daddy, I loveyou, very much.

Home Cooked Dinner

2012-02-19T01:50:00.000-08:00

Day 21, a lovely Sunday evening at our soon-to-be comfortable house.

Sam is in the kitchen cooking dinner. I helped a little, cutting garlics, washing vegetables etc.

Tonight's menu:
1. Sweet and Sour chicken
2. Mani Vege with egg
3. Thick corn soup with egg

We'll be having guests over for the first time tonight. None other than our coursemates Bruno and Ling.
So, after church this morning, we went marketing and spent nearly 2 hours cleaning the house. Carrying those food and grocery all the way back to our unit and up to 4th floor is really a challenge.

5:49pm. Dinner is ready!! =D

*pictures not available yet.

i lost her.

2012-02-16T05:22:00.000-08:00

Love at first sight. Reminded myself not to fall into temptation. Came back from church. So sad, it's gone!! whoever bought it, please treasure it. Again, I failed to secure the one precious item I have such deep feelings for. Why did I hesitate? It was available earlier on, and it waited for me for an hour! Serve me right. Don't tell me there are other pieces out there. I know there are, I've eyes. But my heart just fell for this, it seems so comfortable and I can imagine myself taking countless pictures with her. Owh, Midi Skater Dress, will we reconcile? If you are available one more time, don't let any buyer purchase you k, I promise to be your proud loving owner. :P

Valentine, you owe me a rose. :P

2012-02-16T01:57:00.000-08:00

14 February 2012

Sam took a parcel on my behalf from the office. It's a thoughtful present from someone, but not the special someone. Rejected flowers as I doubt they'd be fresh and blooming after undergoing a 3 hours boat ride to this island. I thought I'm the kind of girl who think buying roses is a waste of money, yes, I still think so; but the joy when we receive the flowers are beyond words to describe. So, to my husband, ONE rose on Valentine's Day, my birthday, our anniversary - 3 stalks a year, just nice for the 3 magical words.

In conjunction with Valentine's Day, I assigned my Remove Class arts students to fold heart shapes origami. Sam corrected me not to use the term 'make love'. A slip of tongue, but they did not get it. Pure innocence, I thought; until they mentioned the 'hit water gun' phrase from 'Apple of my Eye' movie. -_-"

Dinner without candles, but streetlights, with Bruno, Ling and Sam. It's a mouth-watering meal as we no longer have to order alacarte like uni days just to save a few pennies. Bruno targets on getting a new bike; Ling started giving tuition; Sam is very excited about our soon-to-purchase RM 1030 2-door fridge while I am still, me. Thank God for friends =)

10:34pm, I received an important sms, from someone special, which allows me to have a good night sleep. So, is love a major part of life? Yes, above all.

Happy Birthday, my dearest Yvonne =)

p/s have not sent the handmade card. No excitement to send anymore as it appears less attractive compared to those selling at shops. All the best girl :)

Orientation for PPPS at PPD

2012-02-12T16:49:00.000-08:00

There are 11 districts in Sarawak and Kapit is upgraded to a district, because Kapit consists of 3 towns: Song, Kapit and Belaga. SMK Kapit has 140 teachers with 2+++ students, and it is not the only secondary school in Kapit; therefore, with Internet access, water and electrical supply, we are not entitled the RM 500 hardship allowance.

This entry is about the Orientation all permanent new teachers have to attend at our respective Pejabat Pelajaran Daerah (PPD); mine being PPD Kapit.

Syarat Pindah: (Apparently, most teachers who got their first posting far away from home will thought of being transferred out)

1. We CAN apply for transfer at e-Gtukar online every April (for June Transfer) and September (for January) after one year of service.

2. If you are married, you have a higher chance of being transferred to where your husband is working.

3. And if you are still single, minimum service of 6 years at the same school.

4. Immediate family member is failing;

5. Personal safety threat, you'll need a police report as back up.

With that cruel fact which has yet to sink into our hearts, we young teachers are still ambitious to take up masters while spending our 4-6 years here.

After seeing our saddened faces, Cik Bintang, PPD's counselor, gave us a 2 hour pep talk; which is the reason why I decided to blog this out.

1. Our wealth will not be riches but shaping a student's life positively. Our Prime Ministers are children of teachers. Accountants, businessmen can be rich, but their possession cannot be bring to heaven; budi cikgu? Yes.

2. Patience is virtue. We need to be patient if we are waiting for transfer. We need to be patient in shaping a naughty student's attitude. And we need to be patient is allowing God to tie the knot of marriage.

3. Make sure log book is updated. Yes, we are to complete a ONE-YEAR duration's log book, which we'll learn more about this afternoon at the second session.

4. Find time to seek knowledge from mentor; informally.

5. Don't be angry as it'll cause high blood pressure. Handling my Form 1 and Removed Class noisy students, I am mastering the skill of controlling my temper, with a smile that stares into THAT student's eyes. *wink wink*

6. Don't see tasks assigned as burdens; but opportunities to learn and grow. (I like this one)

7. Don't allow language to be barriers that hinders your relationship with the students. I wonder if I ever understand basic Iban Language here.

8. Jangan bertindak di luar batasan. Be extra careful in Facebook. No rumours or negative comments. Benefit ICT. - I've students and teachers in my friends list, I know I can categorize them by blocking certain status or shares, but that action just shows that I know 'that' is not good, then why bother to share?

9. Incorporate stories while teaching, as relevant examples are easy for students to understand. - This, comes with experience and I see it's positive impact on the lesson :)

10. Teachers are examples for students, don't smoke or drink. (This is important. I remember my primary school male teachers smoking until today. As for drinking, ...... )

11. Our service is needed everywhere in the world, regardless of only 1 student in a class for Sekolah Kurang Murid.

12. Proper documentation, practice 5S.

13. Ask seniors how they did the pelaporan online for orientation.

14. * Make sure our portfolio is handed to the Pentadbir. Or, a year's effort will go down the drain!

15. Don't give excuses of 'No Time'. Find Time! We are all given the equal 24 hours in a day. Amen! :)

16. Wise budget. Not just personally, but for the school. Eg, we used our Dewan Makan for PIBG meeting instead of renting Civic Centre like last year. Free!! :)

17. CRK (Cuti Rehat Khas) is a facility, not privilege or right. We are given 7 days of CRK which should be divided across 12 months. Our entire 'Teaching Life' will be recorded in Buku Perkhidmatan; just like a student's record book. Btw, want extra income? We can SELL CRK. *wink wink*

18. Cuti Bersalin = 300 days. We should divide and plan to have how many children with our spouse. :)

19. Exam invigilators: claims, $$ and gain experience.

20. Have good relationships with the clerks. They are the ones who update our service record and Fail Peribadi, and salaryyyyyyy.

21. We have to ask for Surat Pelantikan for any posts given by the school because that proves we are given the power.

22. Our Rancangan Pelajaran Harian or lesson plan, MUST be checked and signed by our head of departments or those in charge, or we'll risk being fired.

23. Don't simply do 'empty signatures'. In short, just be careful when we step into this working world.

24. Follow procedures. No to corruptions.

That's all. Session ended with refreshments. Food binds people :)

First Week of Teaching

2012-02-07T06:32:00.001-08:00

A moral being is one who is capable of reflecting on his past actions and their motives—of approving of some and disapproving of others.
Charles Darwin (1809-1882)

thus, (to kill boredom), the topic of tonight's entry will be "Reflecting on My Past Actions"

1. Scolded my Form 1K today. Two girls were tickling each other while I was teaching "Negative Statements". I stern at them twice yet they did not stop. Their distracting actions got on my nerves, thus, I raised my voice, and surprisingly, the entire class went dead silence. Wee~! Peaceful lesson for the next half an hour.

2. Discipline teacher entered my sit in class and pinched a naughty boy's ear. Students obediently went back to their seats and I was amazed by how his presence can cast a magic silencing spell on these talkative bunch of kids.

Many senior teachers warned my repeatedly that Love Education DOES NOT work.

Even my supervisor back in University penalized me for being too kind to the students until they will climb over my head. Reflection?

#1 Be stingy with smiles.

#2 Make a seating arrangement name list and call out their names when we need their attention.

#3 Praise them for the good things they've done BEFORE highlighting areas they need to improve on.

Good night Blog =) 32 days to see Baby Xin Yu~! (^_^)

Life at SMK Kapit

2012-02-02T20:21:00.000-08:00

Day 5: Happy Stomach checked in at Kapit Hospital :)

How's life at Kapit so far?
1. So far no complaints. Colleagues and friends have been helpful, thank you!

2. Waiting for 2pm as today is Friday; 2 periods of Arts class, plan to ask them to draw 'Dreams to achieve in year 2012'. My piece of art was selected as the best picture last year, and I did accomplish 88% of them :)

3. As for removed class's English, I am assigned to set their exam papers for end of this month. Drilling might be needed for this class; kids, please be considerate to your English teacher k, being obedient and don't scream or run away in the classroom is already a wonderful present for me~

4. Sesco RM 350 deposit, waterboard, post office, bank; end of this month, we'll receive bills~! ....and....salary! woots!!

5. Can't wait for PIBG meeting to be over tomorrow, then we can head down to Sibu for the weekend. Wee :) listed a things to buy :) things here at Kapit are costly. a medium quality single mattress costs RM170 after discount; nasi goreng ayam is RM 5, a glass of air limau is RM 2. -.-''

6. On the bright side, Kapit is a lovely town. The roosters seem to be crowing non stop since 5am sth... This town is surrounded by mountains but I saw development taking place; barren hills =( lots of crows flying above the shelter-less food court and last night, a bird shit was spotted 2 cm away from my dish of kueh tiaw basah few seconds after I cleaned the plate.

will talk to you very soon Dear Blog, as it's only Day 5, and I'm getting bored. Time to borrow some library books to read, oh yeah right, I haven't write a thing for my daily lesson plan, simply because the due date is 2 weeks later. haha.

The best cny guest!

2012-01-26T20:54:00.000-08:00

Woke up late today. Rang up my buddy to visit her. Reverse my car, ek ek, weird, continue driving...slanting de..weird, parked at road side. alamak! one tyre punctured!

A girl's instant reaction: call for rescue. Since still near home, called koko. He directed me to drove home, slowly. The snail journey started, and safely reached home.

Open bonnet to change tyre. What a morning! The spare tyre burst. Don't ask me why. I'm not the owner. Called sis and she said she just checked last month.

First time encounter a tyre puncture experience. But the highlight of this entry is ========>

(googled for this, not him, but they're alike) haha.

Milo dropped by for a surprise chinese new year visiting!! Ah, the instant leap of joy is beyond words. I fed him some cookies and layer cake. His body can take it right. cuz we don keep leftover food. He finished the cold rice greedily too.

You made my day, handsome!! (^_^)

Reactions.

2012-01-26T09:14:00.000-08:00

12:52am.

Purposely rose up from bed to pour out my feelings.

This Chinese New Year, I've met up with many friends. Most of them knew I was posted to Kapit. Below are a few reactions:

1. Wah, Ulu Kapit is so far! How many years will you be there?

2. Where is Kapit?

3. Don't worry. God has a plan for you. You'll meet your Mr. Right there.

4. Take it as a good experience.

5. Quickly get married then you'll be transferred back.

6. "Anyone else going with you?"
     "Yes, 4"
     "That's better."

only one friend mentioned:

Don't go. Compensation of RM 123k? That's alot! But you've to travel by boat, it's so dangerous.. There'll be crocodiles along the river etc..

And this friend actually phoned another friend to persuade me not to report duty and break the contract.

Thanks to all for your concern. Sam, bruno and Ling got posted there. God is with us, we'll all survive. =)

........and one scorned! (#!$!@%)

I was so pissed thinking of her reaction. I've came across friends who asked why I wanted to be a teacher. I answered honestly "passion". Serious, I do find joy in teaching; at least more than the accounting course I took after SPM.

But to see her face looking down at my profession, and commented sarcastically about me going to Kapit, I do feel very hurt and disappointed of this so-called friend.

We shouldn't have wasted our petrol to visit her. You are working overseas, earning dollars; so what? If not for teachers, can you even graduate and be accepted to work overseas? You own an iPhone and mocked that kapit won't have 3G even I can afford an android. I was stunned. You are underweight yet you can straightforwardly commented a model figure lady gained weight, without any laughter to turn that sensitive critic into a joke? Geez, what have we done wrong to cause such discomfort in your eyes? Tell me.

I don't wish our friendship to end this manner; having you to look at your watch and shoo us away from your house, that was rather disrespectful and shallow action. You appeared rather decent on your pictures with your boyfriend. Though he loved you, but we overhead him commenting you shouldn't shoo guests during CNY. Hope this misunderstanding will cleared before we all go separate ways.

Ah....when my friends are too busy to listen to my story, this blog became my faithful listener.  Happy 2012 dear blogspot (^_^)

A time for everything

2012-01-25T21:38:00.000-08:00

There's a time for everything.

A time to cry
to unleash all the frustrations
and sadness
to cry out loud in bedroom when no one's around.

A time to spill out
one's thoughts on a blog.

A time to laugh and joke with friends
to take photos and develop the good ones

A time to make up
and wear heels and in new dress
and receive ang pows with a smile

A time to kill the hope of admirers
and a time to fantasize about future

A time to be isolated from the world
and dive deep into the swimming pool
and touch the bed

A time to smack at badminton court
and to strike in a bowling alley

A time to conquer mountains
and a time to put away old memories
in a memory box

because when 2013 cny arrive
there'll be a time to open the box
and smile upon seeing the old memories
which were so beautiful once.

Catciti Leisure Run 2012

2012-01-08T05:37:00.000-08:00

L-R: Shan Hui's brother doing medic, my kindergarten mate Yee Shien, yang lip, ME =), ah Kei, Robin :)

Civic Centre Tennis Court

starting point! gathered at 7am, 200-300 of us participants departed excitedly at 8am sharp :)

Saberkas

turned into Batu Lintang at the traffic light :) I jogged for 21minutes non stop, cutting through others was kind of ... motivating; but short term happiness, because very soon, guys in red started to zoom past me. haha!

Batu Lintang was flooded 3 days ago.

Jalan Sekama

round 3.2km here. Initially, I planned to derailed here and cut into Ellis Road to attend 1030am Sunday Service. *looking at my 7year-old Nokia 6020* it showed 829am~!! Wee~!! So I persisted :) a friend, CS, caught up with me and we jog-walk-run-walk, and I stopped by a 'try luck' yellow shop :P

Crown Squre

5km: Hydrating Spot! Had a memory of seeing marathon participants grabbing drinks from beautiful ladies at Hydration Spots, never thought I would be one of them. haha! Had my first Red Bull drink today. It was SO SWEET!!

Sri Putramas Swimming Pool

No idea where is that beautiful swimming pool in Kuching. But I couldn't google MBKS swimming pool - the pool I first stepped into during swimming lesson at Tadika Sri Keria; which my parents sent me over for swimming lessons every weekend. Thanks daddy and mummy, you both have really brought the 3 of us up comfortably well. Love love (^_^)

Welcome to Kuching

It started to drizzle by the time we reached this famous cat. Btw, this cat changes her costume every festival. haha. Happy Chinese New Year to all~! May this year of dragon be a blessing to you all (^_^)

Padungan Road

I popped into my brother-in-law's shop; wondering if baby Xin Yu has 'checked-in', but nope, still early for a Sunday. Being an environmental lover, I passed the Red Bull bottle to uncle, troubling him to show my sister that her little sister had actually ran past their shop XD

Plastic bag on head

Haha! The funniest thing I ever did. Since it was raining, I went in a Bak Poh shop and asked for a red plastic bag. Sheltered myself without even looking at any windows for reflection. 3 photographers for this Catciti Run actually spent few seconds to snap my photos. One commented "Cute". Haha, talking about positive motivation!

Star Cineplex

Made a round at Star Cinema and head straight to Main Bazaar.

Main Bazaar

Old builings in Kuching which became the tourist attraction. You can find souvenirs like local handicrafts/decorations/blackpepper/batik etc here. Waterfront is located opposite. [no idea why this entry started drifting to introducing Kuching. haha]

Kuching Post Office

We can see brides and grooms taking their wedding photos here quite often :) It's like sending a message: with a post office, we can survive long distance relationship. [Note: I do not want to be in a marriage where I will be distanced from my husband. Days for business trip, bring me along (if it's allowed). For years? Nope! Unless you are earning 1million a year. and that place is too dangerous for me to tag along. haha, ignore a girl's dream.]

Merdeka Palace. I think a Sultan once stayed here.

Sarawak Museum. You can find head skulls here XD

St Joseph Cathedral

The first church I went for a Christmas countdown =D Traffic was bad at the time we ran past church. I wonder if they are planning to expand their parking lot.

Exactly 99 minutes later, I reached the ending point. According to Yee Shien's Nike sports watch, we ran 12km, not 10km!! WEEeeeee~!! I still can't believe I did it, but the winner made it in 41 minutes, so I accepted this little triumph humbly.
Exhausted but extremely happy look. Another bottle of Red Bull =D

There were mountain bikers and traffic police men keeping an eye on us all the way. Thank you so much, Kuching Marathon Organisers, for all your effort in making this event a success! Looking forward to more health-activities in our developing city. 8 January 2012 is the day I accomplished my 2nd new year resolution! \(^_^)/

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Did I sleep after the run? or the whole afternoon?

Trinity Methodist Church

Nope. I made it to attend sunday service simply because I said a little prayer before the run. God is good, so good! Today's sermon by a new female pastor Wong, 'How to Pray?'

#1 Acknowledge God as Father in Heaven

when you pray, say:

"Father, hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come.

Give us each day our daily bread

and forgive us our sins,

for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us,

and lead us not into temptation."

Mitsu Coffee Shop @ RH Plaza

Met up my dearest friend, Alice for lunch. The wonder of friends --> Alice and I were classmate for only 1 year during Form 1 at SMK Kuching High. Ever since she moved to KL, we kept in contact via mails/cards/and occasional meet up when I went to KL. and this friendship is really one I appreciated alot, alot. The moment we met and hugged, our conversation started to flow, from happy memories to sad hiccups in life, from what we ate for dinner last night to ... ah, thank you God. (^_^)

after preparing for my teaching materials for tomorrow, I dozed off at 4:15-5pm. Facebook has been lagging for the past 2 hours. and it actually took me 2 hours to scribble here. Coursemates posted status, rumouring our posting will be out tomorrow. Ah...honestly, I no longer have high hopes after 7 months of waiting, because I am happy with every person/gifts/work/food/incident I am enjoying during this holiday. (^_^)

14 hours of non-stop rain in Kuching.

2012-01-04T19:34:00.000-08:00

This is the worst flood in Kuching ever.

5th January 2012, this morning, a Form 6 student stepped into a drain and got washed away by the flood at Batu Lintang. A petrol station saw and jumped to help her, but to no avail.

Dad called my phone many times but I went dancing class with neighbour. He broke this news to me earlier on, and when I checked Facebook, geez, many areas were flooded!

Please stay safe, my dear friends.

A Little Light by Carolyn Brunelle

2011-12-21T23:23:00.000-08:00

A LITTLE LIGHT

For everything a reason

and a season under the sun;

every puzzle has its answer

that is not uniquely our own.

Nothing remains a mystery

in the light of life's experience,

or hurts like the awareness

we cannot live it over again.

Yet nothing is ever lost if we

pass such wisdom to one another;

no life lived in vain, that sheds

light on the path for a brother.

Carolyn Brunelle

hide and seek.

2011-12-07T05:18:00.001-08:00

Why do we hide?

A. Afraid.
B. Nothing good will turn out.
C. Habit.
D. Don't want to hurt others.

Honesty is not the best policy after all. But, still, it is the fundamental requirement in a lasting relationship.

- Day 3, aeroplanes war in the classroom. It's a mess from the outside view, but I shared their joy in flying the aeroplanes.

Phonics is Fun

2011-12-06T00:40:00.001-08:00

"I don't want! I don't like! It's not fun!" cried little Rainbow.

"Be good, boy. Enter the class. Mummy will buy a lego set for you later, promise," his mother persuaded.

It's Day 2 for ITS English Camp at Tabuan Desa Branch. 'Our man' caught me by surprised when he burst into tears before the whole class. He resisted and fought back Principal Yu and his mother.

My heart sank. Have I failed as his teacher? Why was he so reluctant to enter my class?

I had a rough night. I woke up as early as 4am and cried myself back to sleep. No, it's not the kids. They are God sent angels.

After singing 'The More We Get Together', little Rainbow entered the class, accompanied by Principal Yu. Thankfully she's a wonderful lady and having her presence in class is not as daunting as my supervisor Puan Ashley for practicum. Bless you Mdm Yu!

Little Rainbow continued to buried his head in his folded arms, face down on the baby table.

Richard has asian black hair :P

"What is your name? What do you like? How old are you?" - Ice breaking.

"Rainbow?" Still, he ignored and face down.

"Rainbow is tired. We have to be quiet to let him sleep awhile, ok children?"

The other 15 kids nodded. They had been quite quiet after they witnessed Rainbow's outburst.

----------miracle after 15 minutes-------when I started to teach Phonics----

A ~ A a~ A a a ~ A a a a~

Amy Ant, Amy Ant,

What do you say?

I say A a,

Amy, Amy ant!

B~ B b~ B b b ~ B b b b~

Blue Bird, Blue Bird,

What do you say?

I say B b,

Blue, Blue Bird.

C~ C c~ C c c ~ C c c c~

Candy Cat, Candy Cat,

What do you say?

I say C c,

Candy, Candy Cat.

Rainbow woke up with a BIGGGGGG smile~! The rainbow is out after a heavy rainpour~!! He got so excited suddenly and even rose from his chair and rehearsed the phonics along~!

Of all the games, the kids actually enjoyed this the most! @_@

-------------during recess, 10am-----another surprise----------------

Rainbow held my arms and dragged me near him.

He whispered "Teacher, you forgot to say grace yesterday. Pray." He clasped his hands and bowed.

Despite having my hands guiding another kid doing her worksheet, I actually turned around and looked him into the eyes. Such a darling!

Though my school do not allow us to pray before the class, due to religion being a sensitive issue in this country, I could thank God in my heart, and, yes, Rainbow did say his grace before munching his doughnuts :)

Thank you children, for bringing rainbows into my world :)

Day 1 with little ones

2011-12-05T04:58:00.001-08:00

Mistake 1: Nearly distributed the whole stake of worksheets to children. I blame my nervousness. Kids, and some adults, might forget to bring the next lesson.

Mistake 2: Asked them to organize their individual ordered worksheets into daily stack. I gave an example and asked them to follow me from behind. Terrible mess. 2 out of 14 students succeeded.

Mistake 3: Re-arrange the table and chairs too near a small board. He accidentally knocked on it. The board fell on him, he cried, principal came in, she gave him sticker, he declined and dried his tears after the pain subsided. Our man!

Mistake 4: Helped the slower students with their worksheets while some boys played with the chalk on the board. The girls complaint; I didn't stop them. If this persist, sooner of later, they will climb over my head.

Mistake 5: Let the students out of the classroom when the school bell rang. One girl went missing! Her mother went frantic and nearly cried! The principal questioned me. I was puzzled and afraid. How careless! Few minutes later, the mother's phone rang. The girl's grandma came to picked her. End of panic.

Conclusion for Day 1 for International Tuition School English Camp, Level 1, 5-7 years old, 16 kids:

1. 35% followed me dancing "Our School will Shine Today", the rest mumbled and were shy to lift their arms.

2. 32% sang "School Song". The words are quite difficult for their level. Some smiled.

3. 89% ziraffah-ed their necks to see the pictures of 'The Pied Piper of Hamelin' on my netbook. 62% guessed the storyline when I paused for suspense. When I asked what is the moral of story, they answered "Mouse eat cheese!" -_-"

4. I guessed the story might be hard. So borrowed a BIG BOOK "Mamo and His Promise". The boy cat ate the fish though he promised mummy cat he wouldn't. He lied and broke his promise. Sister Cat scolded him, he apologized to mom and mom praised his honesty. 99% eyes on me when I meowed and yeah, they love BIG BOOKS.

5. Musical Instruments. I prepared 8, those with rice and beans inside containers. 50% without instruments were extremely sad; some carefree ones just clapped and marched behind me when old spiritual "When the Saints Go Marching In" was played. Spontaneously made another 6 instruments.

6. All are helpful in arranging desk to match softboards on the floor for story telling time.

7. 68% did poor colouring.

Reflection: I'm glad I didn't break into tears before them, due to personal emotions. When little Felice held my arms around her little neck, I felt all the energy draining hours before were worthwhile. Oh, she was the adorable one the went missing.

Lesson Learnt: Do not...

(P/s I told him)

----Humor is the spiciest condiment in the feast of existence. Laugh at your mistakes but learn from them, joke over your troubles but gather strength from them, make a jest of your difficulties but overcome them.

Lucy Maud Montgomery (1874-1942)-----

Reservoir Park Kuching

2011-12-03T02:34:00.001-08:00

Back from an hour's brisk walking with mom earlier. Once again, this Reservoir Park lifted my mood. How can one not be charmed by Mother's Nature?

Did you see the the platform above? Due to the non-stop rain in Kuching for the past 24 hours, it was flooded. Poor drainage. Nevertheless, the cooling atmosphere this evening successfully welcomed parents and tots and a few couples; as well as singles who are health conscious.

Can't help admiring the kids, posing with their father for their mother to snap a picture. - sweet memory, must pen down- :P

Ah, this photo was taken 5 years ago. I do hope this greenery will forever remain within the heart of Kuching. Oh by the way, that white tall building at 1o'clock is our Civic Centre; I used to enjoy playing the lift to get up there and enjoy the scenery and breeze. The gym which replaced the state library at the ground floor was also removed, poor feng shui I suppose.

Did you you the semi-globe besides Civic Centre?

Planetarium Sultan Iskandar

Though it's a just a stone's throw away from home, but I've yet to view our outer space.

Just googled: http://www.planetarium-sarawak.org/psi/index.php?option=com_zoo&task=item&item_id=10

Something to look forward to this week :)

TESL VS Pre School

2011-11-30T20:29:00.001-08:00

Hello Blog,
Sorry I didn't complete the Jurong Bird Park post last night.
The fingers just didn't coordinate with my mind and feelings then.

Anyway,
How are you, my friends?

Just came back from ITS English Language Camp 2nd briefing.
There are lots of preparation to be done.
And honestly,
I'm still thrilled.

Thrilled to the extend,
I am considering to do Pre School Education,
will it be a good idea?

TESL will be a better choice
because I've gone through the foundation and bachelor for 6 years.

Pre School will be something new
with all the songs, rhymes and riddles
games, story telling and....K.I.D.S!

The activities are way more interesting than higher secondary syllabus
but managing the kids?
I've failed to control my Form 1 kids during practicum
wonder will the 5-8years old be any easier?

Once again,
I'm thrown before a crossroad in a jungle.
Which path should I lead?

The left is mostly travelled,
should be a safer road.
The right is covered with shrubs
and there might be thorny grasses.

taken from: http://syukranview.wordpress.com/category/panorama/
(Geez, such a view, lai, sit back n day dream for few seconds.~)

But whichever path lies ahead
I'm sure I will not stay stagnant at this position
and stare too long,
watching other travellers passing by
one by one
leaving me all alone till the snow falls.

So....
MERRY CHRISTMAS to all in advance~!
HO~ HO~ HO~

SPP Interview 2011

2011-11-22T23:16:00.001-08:00

SPP Interview Tips for the under-prepared people (like me)

1. Have your documents ready in the right order, with the checklist + passport glued, on the front page. Original certs in 'Clear Folder'. Extra certs won't be awarded extra marks.

2. Remember your CGPA. Datok commented I downgraded my 3.757 to 3.753.

3. Introduce yourself. Name, school, reasons to be English teacher.

4. What are the skills needed in teaching? In groups of 5, we took turn by brainstorming answers like: listening, speaking, reading , writing, communication, interpersonal...

5. Pedagogy: Mastery Learning, Learn how to Learn, Multiple Intelligence, Constructivsm (5 choose one each) He requested this to be in BM.

6. No NKRA, no Falsafah Pendidikan Kebangsaan, no wawasan 2020, no lagu patriotik, no micro-teaching.

7. What are the current issues in Education? We talked about MBMMBI and the native speakers coming in the Malaysia.

8. Situation: Solve & give opinion. In a class, the teacher separated the class into 3 groups, genious, average, n slow learners. Good or bad? Why?

I think that's about it. I'm just very relieved he didnt ask bout the politicians and history. And, I'm glad my other 4 friends are so supportive and we helped each other out while we sorta stuck.

Overall, I regretted killing my cells by worrying too much.

The day continued with makan-session with coursemates. A sereni-and-shentel visit. 2 rounds of bowling. and....

....catching my flight to Singapore~!

*see, the fun part is highlighted. *wink wink* God bless all of us will pass the interview and berbakti kepada negara~ Good luck to those who will sit for it (^_^)

Pengenalan Kementerian Pelajaran Malaysia

2011-11-20T22:36:00.001-08:00

Visi KPM: Sekolah Unggul Penjana Genarasi Terbilang

Misi KPM: Membangun Potensi Individu Melalui Pendidikan Berkualiti

Menteri Pelajaran

Y.A.B. Tan Sri Dato' Haji Muhyiddin Bin Haji Mohd. Yassin

Timbalan Menteri Pelajaran I

Y.B. Datuk Ir. Dr. Wee Ka Siong

Timbalan Menteri Pelajaran II

Y.B. Dr. Haji Mohd Puad Bin Zarkashi

Ketua Setiausaha

Y.Bhg. Dato' Dr. Rosli bin Mohamed

Ketua Pengarah Pelajaran Malaysia

Y.Bhg. Dato' Sri Abd. Ghafar bin Mahmud

http://www.moe.gov.my/?id=37&lang=my

Hainan Island Tour didn't come true.

2011-11-12T20:57:00.001-08:00

Haikou Travel Attractions

Holiday beachHoliday Beach, located in the west of Haikou, is a must-see destination for those visiting the city. Holiday Beach is a major recreational resort, is about 6 kilometers (about 3.7 miles) long, and enjoys a wonderful climate with sparkling waters, coconut trees, plenty of sunshine and clear skies…..

Mangrove Forest in Dongzhai PortMangrove is a tropical evergreen trees or shrubs of the genus Rhizophora, having stilt-like roots and stems and forming dense thickets along tidal shores. There are about 81 kinds of mangroves in the world and among them about 41 can be found….

Tropical Wildlife GardenThis is actually a tropical zoological garden which imitates the environment of the wild, covering total area of 1.3 square kilometers, in which visitors can take a look at various kinds of tropical animal in their relatively wild state…..

Dongjiao Coconut PlantationTo visit Dongjiao (Dongjia Yelin) coconut plantation, visitors will have to take a twenty-minute ferry from Qinglan Harbour. This plantation has 500,000-coconut trees of various varieties of coconut peciesTracking through small footpath among…..

Highlands HainanThe highlands, spread across the central belt of Hainan island are areas of great natural beauty, with huge towering mountains, breathtaking waterfalls and tiny Li and Miao minority villages dotted about the place all making this an unspoiled and surprisingly….

West Coast HainanIn western Hainan, there are vast tracts of forest and long mountain ridges. In particular, the rainforests of western Hainan are filled with mysterious new plants and rare animals, attracting travelers with their own special natural splendor……

--------------copied and pasted from : http://www.travel-china.net/haikou-travel-attractions.html ----------

Last year, I posted pre-Taiwan trip, and I did step my foot there; this year, for SPP Interview's sake, I can only google about Hainan Island, without leaving my footprints on my mother's mother's hometown this time.

Yang Ming Shan, Taipei~ The coldest I experienced! =D

Beach, canoe? We have it at Palm Beach & Damai Beach Kuching.

Mangrove? I've been to Bako National Park 2 months back.

Tigers? I've seen more well fed ones at Thailand and Singapore's Zoo.

Coconut trees? are you kidding, (i just went to check), yes, i've one right in front of my house.

Highlands? Cameron Highland, Genting Highlands, we have casinos and theme park there wei!

Yatch, haven't been to one, but not that i can afford that water sports even if i do go to Hainan Island...

Coconut tree wei .... Proudly presents our Hilltop Damai Beach (^_^)

Mangrove hike with youngsters.... Proudly presents our Bako National Park, where you can see the famous sea stake~! (^_^)

Dad, mom n I posing in the cool breeze... Proudly presents our Cameron Highlands :)

SO Yes, this is solely a self-comforting entry. Ooh, I'm just so sad! Even if I am willing to skip the interview, i know my parents will strongly oppose to that naive idea. At least Kevin and Aunty Jenny are secretly glad that I can tutor Jefferson now. Dearest blog, thanks for letting me pouring out. Hope the 17 of them had extra joy on my behalf :') btw God, I still love you! Sorry I felt unfair and complaint, and Thank You for the past wonderful trips, and many more to come~! =D

Falsafah Pendidikan Kebangsaan

2011-11-08T19:16:00.000-08:00

Falsafah Pendidikan Kebangsaan

"Pendidikan di Malaysia adalah satu usaha berterusan ke arah memperkembangkan lagi potensi individu secara menyeluruh dan bersepadu untuk mewujudkan insan yang seimbang dan harmonis dari segi intelek, rohani, emosi dan jasmani. Usaha ini adalah bagi melahirkan rakyat Malaysia yang berilmu pengetahuan, berakhlak mulia, bertanggungjawab, berketrampilan dan berkeupayaan untuk mencapai kesejahteraan diri serta memberi sumbangan terhadap keharmonian dan kemakmuran keluarga, masyarakat dan negara."

Simple Reflection:

Why do we study? Why do we even study to teach them to study? With this National Education Philosophy at hand, perhaps I would be constantly reminded that Education is a life long process to balloon up our individual potential. And the reason? So that we can create a balance and harmony individual intelectually, spiritually, emotionally and physically.

JERI. Another reminder for self and you, exercise is crucial; as well as knowledge, and spiritually journey and controlling our emotions. As I write this out, I am amazed by the connections between these 4 elements :)

Since young, we were taught moral values, in school and at home. Education will produce citizens who are knowledgeable, morally characterized, responsible, competent and ability to achieve well-being. Not only for self, but we should contribute to the harmony and prosperity of our family, society, country and world at large.

Knowledge, does not solely serve as information or explanation for others, but knowledge influence, change and shape what we are today.

God bless all, especially those we are sitting for the coming SPP interview! \(^_^)/

updated 7:58pm:

Q: How do I show someone unconditional love?

Here are 4 surefire signs to go by.

Physically: You're there for them in person, standing by their side, so they're not alone.

Emotionally: You offering your support by allowing them to honestly and openly express their feelings.

Mentally: You help them think through their actions, motives, and desires.

Spiritually: You pray for and with them and help them grow in all aspects of their life.

Dancing & Baking =)

2011-11-01T07:04:00.000-07:00

Being jobless, allows me to catch up with my neighbour, Aunty Carrie and Uncle Charlie. After a speedy 2 months as a relief teacher at Lodge National School, I went back to Senior Citizens Club to join their Monday's Ballroom Dance, Press Dance and Folk Dance.

Everytime I see them, I'd feel so much alive. Some are more than 80, yet they are so energetic is dancing; the grandparents woke up and 'gather' as early as 8am to play pool/snooker. It has been exactly 2 months since I last exercise (shameful), and though I'm a slow learner, I'm quite surprised when the beginners were amazed, asking how many years have I learned and ask me to teach them. Duh.. @_@ haha!

*Dancing is fun!*(^_^)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Went to make more headbands with Pamela at Enid's house earlier. Enid taught us how to make cheesecake, chocolate rich cheesecake.

Recipe (Yvonne, you asked for this)

500g cheese

110g castor sugar

75g yogurt

45g whipping cream

++ melted chocolate

Base:

1 packet of smashed orea

1/4 bar of butter

* smashed, mixed and chill as base, in freezer

Baking in oven:

medium 3, 60minutes.

* use chopstick to 'design' the top chocolate-cheese

google picture only; Enid will only design the top layer the next day before sending over to customer's house =)

*Happy girls days-in* Without guys, we girls can fill our days meaningfully too (^_^)