Day 31 New Year's Eve

Image from Pinterest

As we go through the last 24 hours of this year, most people are wondering if they will have a better year or it will be a repeat of same ol' same ol'.

If there is one thing that I've rediscovered in 2017, it's that I am the captain of my ship and I direct the sails.  For much of my life, I've steered as I saw fit but along the way, I sort of lost the realisation that I could change the course.  

I still worried that I needed to do what people expected of me and, in so doing, I allowed my personal space and happiness to be pushed aside. Now I've taken back the rudder and I feel empowered to face 2018. 

So the new year is mine, what will I do with it?  *Rubs hands in glee*

I will do with it, whatever brings goodness to my life.  I will spend more time meditating on God's Word.  I will give permission to me to eat what I enjoy.  I will immerse myself in a healthier life.  I will do so many new and better things with my 2018. 

    

Day 30 Christmas Ending

While listening to "Praise and Worship" songs, I feel energised even after doing the laundry, my morning chores and everything else that needed tweaking.  

The children left us with a glow that should carry us through the next days and until we see them again.

Stephen is back to his ad hoc work and I'm going to catch up with all that I've put aside these last few days.  

Looing back, we had a superb Christmas meal cooked by our GG and she impressed us with her culinary skills.  Her first attempt at Devil Curry was outstanding.  She asked me to give it a go as she thinks I can.  Maybe I will.  I'll have to see how it goes.  We wined and dined a bit but now we're on slow down mode.  We don't intend to go overboard.

Overall, this time we didn't stress out over visiting people except for Grandma Grosse which is part of the reason why the kiddos spent Christmas in Singapore.  

Anyway, it's peaceful and quiet this morning.  I'm alone with my thoughts but I'm not lonely.  There is so much in my heart to keep me company. 

Day 29 Christmas Reason

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Well, it's almost over.  Everyone is thinking of the new year.  In a few places, some decorations are already being replaced with the colours of the next festive celebration.

It's at this time that we should remind ourselves about the wondrous gift of Jesus in our lives.

We all prepared for Christmas with so much gusto and it shouldn't end there.  We should strive to keep the kindness and love that we felt during this season.  Jesus is the risen Christ.  Jesus is the Christ in Christmas and Jesus is with us every day of the year. 

We should rejoice!  

Day 28 Christmas Season

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When I was still working, it was always at the back of my mind that the holiday would soon be over.  Yes, there were moments when I completely forgot about work or commitments but eventually, I'd remember that I had to get back to the routine of being employed.  Juggling leave, travelling and merry-making during this intense period sometimes left me tired and worn out.

However, now I do feel the whole 100% of the holiday magic.  There are no more rushing deadlines or wondering if I have enough vacation leave.  It really is wonderful.

But it has come as a result of already having done my duty and now being able to bask in the afterglow of it all.  I did my part when it was necessary and now I should learn to kick off my shoes and enjoy the essence of this holiday season.  I've earned it.

Day 27 Christmas Magic

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We've had the children with us since the 22nd and we've made memories during our quiet moments as well as when we are rolling on the floor laughing out loud.  It's what has made this holiday season magical and precious.

We never really know if or whether we will make it through to the next Christmas, so it's important to make each day count.  I think in these last days, we have done just that.  

The kids go back today and we return to our usual routine but that's also okay because as long as Stephen and I together, we'll be fine.

Day 26 St Stephen's Day

Image from Pinterest

So we're still reeling from the merry-making.  Still busy with the children and making memories.  It's my favourite thing to do when they are here.

Happy St Stephen's day!!! And also 

Day 25 MERRY CHRISTMAS

From Pinterest

Busy today to write more but send a wish, I must!!

May the spirit of Christmas love, joy,
and happiness reside in you 
and last until the next year!

and

Day 24 Christmas Eve

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Everything is set for today and tomorrow.  We have church to attend and then prep for dinner.  

Whatever it is, we're celebrating not only because Christmas is tomorrow but also because today is our wedding anniversary.  

When we decided on this date, we knew that it would always be doubly special because it's in the most wonderful month of the year plus everywhere is filled with joyful, happy people.  It's contagious.

Anyway, despite and in spite of the odds being against us to last, here we are, still together.  

Happy anniversary, darling!

Day 23 Christmas Baby

Image from Pinterest

Oh yes, indeed!  A baby changes everything.  Even when our children are all grown up, they're always our babies, no matter how old they get.

Just like Baby Jesus and how his birth changed everything, our babies change everything for us.  

Even when we don't think about it, our lives revolve around them.  We think about them.  We worry about them  We pray for them.  We talk about them.  We connect daily with them.  What would life be without them?

To have them here and to be able to shower them with our love, care and concern means so much to us.  I always like to think we're making memories: Christmas memories, to boot!

Day 22 Christmas Hearts

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Oh yes, they do!  Two hearts are coming home for Christmas. We're always happy when they do plan to be with us.  It's exciting and fun to have our children with us, especially, at Christmas.

We do understand that they won't always be able to spend it here in Singapore but we love it when they do.  There's so much happening that we can happily fill each day with loads to do or buy.  Sales are on everywhere and we already started our shopping ten days ago.  Sorry, kids, we didn't wait. 

It'll be a full house!  Full of fun, love, and laughter when we get together.  And eating, that's a foregone conclusion, since we all love to eat. 

Blessed Christmas Wishes

Day 21 Christmas Things

So I've started using some of my Christmas stuff.  I have a few things which I like to bring out during this season.  

These four earrings were bought last year but I didn't get a chance to use them so they are relatively new.  Altogether, I have about 7 pairs of Christmas earrings, one Christmas handbag, one Christmas hair clip, and one Christmas hair thingy.

This year, I decided to be daring and paint my nails in a more festive colour to match my bling bling Fitflop.  #YOLO

Day 20 Christmas Blessings

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As we reach the last few days before Christmas, Let's count our blessings and look around to see who we can bless during this beautiful season.

We haven't decided yet what we will do but we always make it a tradition to shower someone with a surprise blessing.  There's still time and we will finalise this before the year is over.

Come on, Stephen, put your thinking cap on! 

Day 19 Christmas Memories

Image from Instagram and edited

Without fail, I always think of my grandpa on this day.  He would have been 108 years old today.

We all called him Papa.  In fact, everyone called him Papa.  His children, grandchildren and even great-grandchildren all called him Papa.  No one bothers about it.  I like that.  No protocol and just a term of endearment.  

I still think of him every now and then and today especially, I feel sad that he's no longer with us. All of a sudden, I miss him more.

Day 18 Christmas DIY

Image by GGYC

And I would never have imagined that my daughter-in-law would be so creative and talented.  These are the cards leftover from her beautiful wedding celebrations.  How she has transformed them into something so meaningful and useful is just magical.  

I was blown away by the beauty and simplicity of this project, not forgetting the perfect calligraphy, which makes it all the more meaningful.  

What more can I say?  

Did I mention, she's cooking Christmas dinner too?  

We are blessed to have her in our family.  

Great job, G!  We're very proud of you! 

Day 17 Christmas Spirit

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And just a reminder that the spirit of Christmas is the Spirit of Christ!  Too often, the reason for this beautiful season is lost among the dazzling images.

They're all lovely.  Don't get me wrong on that.  But amidst all that loveliness is the saviour's birth.  

Image from Pinterest

Day 16 Christmas Coffee

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So it's really easy to please me because all I want for Christmas is COFFEE!  I usually drink coffee only in the mornings and will risk one in the afternoon, if I am out and about.  

I find that coffee does keep me awake at nights, sometimes.  But if I'm dead tired, I sleep no matter how much caffeine I have ingested.  

So, yeah, coffee is all I want for Christmas.  Easy peasy, y'all!

Image from Pinterest

Day 15 Christmas Time

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It's really been a good two weeks of December for me.  I haven't felt rushed or stressed about getting organised for Christmas.  

Plus I can check off every thing on this list, despite binging on Christmas movies and my TV series, I should add.  

When I was working, I used to feel a bit of tension the moment we hit the first of December.  I wondered when I would start to "Christmastise" the home.  I wondered how I would do it all.  More often than not, I would work a full day and then after dinner I'd start on the decorations.  It wasn't easy but I did do my best and always felt satisfied with everything.

These last years, it's been easier.  I've either become better at it or I've become more easy-going.  It's not about overdoing but just about doing.  And I'm done!  

Yay!  Celebrate!  

Okay, maybe not yet.  I'm still tweaking some things every now and then!  

Day 14 Christmas Cheesecake

So Stephen joined me to make this no-bake cheesecake.  It was a trial run but it turned out super tasty.  The texture could be improved but the taste is just glorious.  

We tweaked two recipes and came up with this.  So the next round will be even better, I'm sure.

Already it's almost all gone after only two days!  We did give two pieces to our neighbours just to get their reaction.  Hahahaha

It's not a huge cake although it looks huge in the picture.   We'll be making another for our Christmas dessert and for the children to enjoy with us. 

Day 13 Christmas List

Image from Instagram and edited

So there was a time when I was probably on Santa's naughty list but that was so long ago when it was fun and caution was thrown to the wind.  We did things that we enjoyed and didn't worry about tomorrow.

Now, however, I may not be on everyone's nice list but I am quite certain that I'm on Santa's nice list.  At least, I'm on Santa Stephen's nice list which is all that matters.  

Time changes everyone.  Perspectives are fine-tuned and we are no longer slaves to other people's opinions.  

Day 12 Christmas Gift

Taken by me -Tangs Singapore

The bible is never wrong.  We truly believe that every good and perfect gift comes from above, as is written in James 1:17.

When I saw this over a week ago, I just thought that it was such a fitting tribute to the reason for the season.  We often forget why we celebrate Christmas.

And since every good and perfect gift comes from above, we are thankful for our beautiful Gwen who celebrates her birthday today.

May God bless her abundantly and give her all the desires of her heart.

D and I love you and cannot ask for a better gift from God than to have you in our lives.  

Day 11 Christmas Wine

There was a year when I was so busy or lazy or whatever you want to call it that I decided wine was the way to go.  It was a simple and quick decision especially when time and ideas were running out. 

I hardly buy too many gifts nowadays.  But maybe this year, I'll be different and surprise some family and friends!  

What's that joke about white and red again?  

Image from WWW

Day 10 Christmas Wishes

Image from Pinterest (edited by me)

When do we send Christmas cards out?

According to a google search, the answer is "Send out Christmas cards to family and friends 2-3 weeks before Christmas day. You should always send out Christmas cards during the first full week of December to avoid sending your cards out too early or too late."

Now we no longer have to worry about it, as most people wish via a social media platform.  But I'm sending out our first wish today  (more to come, why not?) even while I'm making a personalised one that I will share with close family and friends.

Day 9 Christmas Stuff

Image from Instagram

I've been thinking of making a cheesecake since a month ago but, as always, I keep postponing.  So I will get to it and then just before Christmas I'll make another one.  Calories!!

And we've been watching Christmas movies every night.  Stephen loves them and, with Netflix, there are so many to choose from.  Plus we've been binging on snacks.  He'll take a packet and I'll say, "No".  Then he'll pass it to me and I'll start.  Or I bring out the potato chips and he'll join me.  Calories again!

But this is what Christmas time is all about.  Being happy and contented with the simple things in life is all that matters.

Day 8 Christmas Feelings

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Almost every mall is decked with Christmas decorations. It's lovely to see the different themes of each one and as always the famous Singapore Orchard Road is brimming with people who go to take in the sights and sounds of everything.

It's impossible not to feel Christmas in the air if you walk through Orchard Road when the lights are all up.  

We haven't gone yet but we've seen some images and videos already. Maybe we'll wait for the children to go with them.  Or maybe not! 

Day 7 Christmas Lights

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So our tree is up and some minor adjustments has made it bright and sparkly!  Most of the other decorations are in their designated spots.  Our home is cosy and so it's easy to fill up the space quickly and easily.

But it's the lights, when darkness falls, that gets to us.  It's the twinkling and colours that add to the mystery and magic of Christmas.  

Day 6 Christmas Magic

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There is magic in the air during the christmas season.  This sums up what I think it's all about.  

Black and gold!  Such a lovely combination! 

Day 5 Christmas ideas

Some nice ideas I saw on Pinterest that even a klutz like me can do.  Hahahahaha

Recycled toilet paper rolls!  How clever is this?  I'd only need to make four for my family!

Saving them here for IF we decide to host a party, one day.  

Day 4 Christmas Thoughts

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I do agree that Christmas means a little bit more.  

Before if you wanted to have a beautiful tree and home, you had to go to Robinson's to buy your stuff. People recognised that they had the best selection of christmas decorations.  

Today, you can go to Daiso and get everything you need and your home will be just as lovely as any other.

Stephen commented to me about this and said that it would be so easy for young couples to buy what they need from one store.  He's right, of course.  

But Christmas for us, truly means a little bit more than just store-bought stuff. 

I'm glad to be in Singapore to celebrate again to enjoy this wonderful month of all things nice!

Day 3 Christmas Santa

Image from Pinterest

Stephen just told mom that he still believes in Santa Claus.  Mom smiled at this.  He said that when he was a small boy, he truly believed that Santa would come at night and he tried to look out for him.  Now that he's older and wiser, he still believes in Santa.  I think we all want to and in some way, it's a nice memory from our childhood that we can safely carry into our adulthood.  

These words in the image resonates with the spirt of Santa Claus.  So let's give freely without expectation and spread joy, love and light.

Day 2 Christmas Cards

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I used to be very "rajin" to send cards before and took pride in choosing lovely ones for each person.  Now it's almost an obsolete choice, with all the technology available, but I am amazed that there are still people who buy, write a note, put a stamp on the envelope and post a card off.

Anyway, I did send something out to surprise a handful of people.  I'm hoping it will brighten their day.  

Stephen was equally happy that we found something practical and special.  He was pretty excited that we are doing something clandestine.  Hahahahaha.  He wants them all to receive it on the same day but with the postal system and heavy delivery schedule, I doubt very much that this will happen.

Day 1 Children and Christmas

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Long ago when I used to have the energy to do up our home with all the decorations I have for Christmas, I decided it would be a nice touch if Jared did his part.  So I gave him the task of hanging the ornaments on the tree.  

For him, it was a work of art but for me, it was when I found out I had OCD because he didn't arrange them in any systematic way that I could imagine.

So every day, I moved one ornament around until I was satisfied.  Did he notice?  I don't know.  I'm not even sure he will remember this.  I'll have to ask him. 

Now I'm wondering if I will ever be cured of OCD.  Probably not!

image from Pinterest

I'll do my best.

Image from WWW

Many years ago, I used to hear these words, "I'll do my best".  These days, I say it to others because it carries such a strong conviction in just mouthing those words.  

The one who used to say these words didn't realise the impact it would have on me.  But I have always thought that someone who responds with these words show a capacity to give their all.

The person is Suzee.  Some may know her, or of her, if they have been in my life long enough.  

I remember whenever I asked her to help me with something, her reply would always be "I'll do my best".  And it always was her best!

Once I asked her to sew some press buttons on some curtains for me, and she did them so neatly and beautifully.  More than that, she returned them to me the next day!

Another time, when she helped to paint my apartment, she chose the most difficult job of doing the grilles.  Where the brush couldn't reach wasn't a problem for her!  She just dipped her finger in the paint and used her finger to coat the parts that the brush could not reach.  That she would do something like that really blew my mind.  Until today when I see my grilles, I think of her and how she just went about to do her best.  

It wasn't any particular big project that she did for me, it was just small and random tasks but the manner in which she did it all, showed so much of who she is as a person.  I cannot remember everything that she has done for me but I will always remember her response!

How many of us remember to do our best in all we do?  I sometimes forget but Suzee's words ring in my head and then I do just that little bit more because that would be my best.  

It's how I can feel good and right with myself and in my heart.  It's how I know that I can do my best.  I am in awe of Suzee's attitude. 

Little does she know that her words have stuck with me through all the years.  Little does she know that I have tried to live with this motto.  

I hope that in time, someone else who hears me say "I'll do my best" will also feel something stirring inside and do the same.  

Thank you, Suzee, for all the love you've shown and continue to send to me. 

Whatever happens in life, I'll do my best, Suzee.  I hope you're proud of how your big heart has changed me.

His birthday again!

And so another year to mark the beginning of the next chapter begins!  Level 58 achieved and becoming much more than all he could ever dream of being.

It has been satisfying to see how blessed the last year has been, for Stephen, with so many opportunities falling on his path.  It's just incredible how he has embraced both his spiritual and personal journey.  My birthday prayer is that he continues to know God more deeply.  

Be proud to be you

Image from Facebook

When I left Facebook some years ago, I also left behind some friends with whom I had reconnected after a long lapse of silence.   I may have lost those ties but if I have an email address, I like to send a birthday wish via email even if I don't expect a reply.

Then, surprisingly, replies to two birthday greetings that I sent out in July and forgotten about appeared in my inbox.

One didn't reply earlier because of work and travelling and the other was just a random chance that an old email account was checked!  Whatever happened, I was just happy to receive news and also to know that they knew I remembered.

One of them wrote, "I'm sure likewise you, too, would have been shaped into a person closer to what you really are by the changing parades of events and people."

This made me think a bit and there's a lot of truth in it.  Today another person mentioned this and said, "our ego loses power as we mellow".  Again, it made it me think a bit more and prompted me to write here. 

  

There's power in not pretending to be like others.

There's power in not pretending to like others also.  

Somehow growing older makes us braver to be who we really are.  We become lazy to put up a false front for people and inevitably, circumstances change our perspectives, adding to the change in how we think.

Not everyone likes the changes or more accurately, the peeling off of the masks we put on to please others.  But there's a satisfaction in being the real me. 

Blissful living

From Pinterest

Stephen is a joker.  He can make me laugh at almost anything.  Sometimes he will just pluck something out of thin air and make a joke out of it and we will both laugh like idiots.

There are so many things that make me love him.  Like how he makes my coffee in the mornings, no matter what he has to do.  Or how he switches off my alarm so I will sleep on.  Just simple things that all add up to what makes for a happy marriage.

For a lot of my life, I've always felt that I was always giving more than I take but for the first time in my life, I actually believe that I am taking more than I give.  It's taken a lot of adapting to reverse this and learning how to receive and not to worry about any hidden agenda.

And it's not just about relationship between husbands and wives, it's also about what goes on between friends.  

We're always concerned about paying back and keeping the record clean but every once in a while, we cross paths with someone who is happy to just give and be counted as a blessing.  We must remember to appreciate the kindness and be grateful when people are kind.  It is their intangible gift to us.

Some would call it karma but the bible says this

From Pinterest