lyn-peace

IF

2012-03-05T21:44:00.018+08:00

Looking at the duration, many may “IF only we go for this year…”
Looking at the guest speakers, maybe many will “IF only…”
Looking at the photos, many may “IF only we go for this year…”

But looking back at all the precious and priceless God's moments, God-showed-up times, God-spoke moments..

what I learned, what I experienced, what I encountered..

what I tried for the first time..

what what I went through with the rest..

And most of all, the people I met..

the friendship formed..

the sweet & "salty" memories..

Without any regrets, I’m glad I attended SOT in 2011.

SPARK Journey

2012-03-01T21:37:00.011+08:00

SPARK
Singapore Pre-school Accreditation Framework
The Singapore Pre-school Accreditation Framework (SPARK) is a quality assurance framework introduced by the Ministry of Education to raise the quality of pre-schools in Singapore.

Our school get to know about this 3years ago.
There were preparation, checks, changes etc etc during the 3yrs of wait. We even went through one round of “trial”.

The final preparation started 6mths ago.
It went intense, real intense weeks prior to our actual assessment, 28 and 29 Feb.

Other than the staying-back and increased of work loads, I felt stretch emotionally and mentally as on top of the “usual work loads”, I had to manage the “new work loads” that came due to SPARK.
Cause of its intense, it was draining emotionally and physically.

After the crucial Safety & Hygiene (that was the extreme clean-up I ever done in school setting), we went next for the actual assessment.

28 Feb & 29 Feb
2 assessors came and stayed for the entire day
They took turns and went to the different classes to observe the different teachers conducted the different lesson.

On the first day, I was observed by one assessor for Science then by another for Language & Literacy. During Science experiment, I thank God for the wisdom to react fast that since there were much time left, I got them to do reflection-writing.

It was alright during Language & Literacy, one of the “flipped parts” was one of the little ones asked me “who is that aunty (aka assessor) behind?”

As for the second day, I was observed by two for Numeracy then by one for Current Issues.
My little ones almost gave me a shock during Numeracy lesson where one of them actually decided to give me a "challenge" by doing things he/she seldom do.

Though the whole class were overly super excited during the games BUT thank God they were under controlled when I was firm… just before they go wild.

Finally… Finally… It is FINISHED!!!

Results will only be out 1-2mths later but according to P, most probably we will pass so is only a matter of at which level and where our school stand.

Through this amazing journey, I learn to appreciate Principal and the pioneer staff as they are the ones who worked on this right from the beginning.

Goodbye Taiwan!

2012-02-28T22:29:00.009+08:00

last FINAL entry of my Taiwan trip!
(Reader M, this is really the LAST… I was really in Taiwan for only 1 week. Hehe!)

It has always been my dream to go Taiwan.
Cause of the entertainment news and variety show?
Cause of the food? Cause of the scenery?

After two years of “talking about it”, we turned it into reality in 2011!

And I’m glad that to add on to this long-awaited trip, I get to meet up with the friends I made in SOT.

I am grateful, very grateful to my teammates & their family/friends for making our Taiwan trip a memorable and sweet one!

@ Tainan
Teammate SM + his parents

Teammate YG + Huang Papa + Huang Mama + Friend YW

@ Kaoshiung
Teammate JL + Friend WC

@ Hsinchu/Taipei
Teammate JI + Friend AT

Friend HL, Friend HM and I were definitely very blessed to have them throughout this trip. More than the ridessss and treatssss, we were touched and really appreciate their time and hospitality.

My likes:
#1 - BREAKFAST! Haha!
I simply love Taiwan breakfast!!!

#2 - Taiwanese!
I heard about it from this from that from here from there BUT this time I experienced and encountered myself.

#3 - the weather
Cold but cooling and nice!

#4 - the scenery
Whether in the car or in the train… Whether is it day or night… Whether is it city/country, I love to look out of the window.

#5 - the food
Food/Drinks/Dessert that I never dare to take in Singapore… I had it in Taiwan.
Eg. winter melon juice, corn (thumbs up), beancurd, milk tea

My “regrets”:
Didn’t managed to go Toilet-Themed-Restaurant and cable car ride @ MaoKong...

Taiwan Trip - Taipei #3

2012-02-28T21:09:00.014+08:00

18 Dec
Third day @ Taipei, final day @ Taiwan

I woke up slightly earlier, left to meet Teammate JI to return her Teammate YG’s thick jacket which she lent me since Tainan.

We had breakfast together and at breakfast shop (Hoooray!).
My last breakfast in Taiwan~~~
I’m really gonna miss Taiwan breakfast~~~

We had a simple breakfast but a great time fellowshipping.
She walked me to the hotel and then we had our final goodbye.

Friend HL and I checked out from the hotel.
Itrip Taipei Inn not a bad choice, though the room was small but it was pretty comfortable. Most importantly is the venue, it is inside XiMenDing and near train station.

Next destination: GuanDu
Friend HM's sister's house, to put our luggage

Initially we were told by the hotel staff that it will be pretty expensive for us to travel by cab but it was not when we checked with the driver. It was so nice of the driver that throughout the journey he assured us that it won’t be expensive and if the amount more than what he prepared us, we just have to pay the amount he told us.

Another cup of “50Lan” aka “Koi”.

We bought train tokens and off we went to our first stop, Taipei City Hall station.

1st stopover: my dream place, Taipei 101!!!

Friend HM and Friend HL walked with me there before they left for their own shopping nearby as they weren’t interested in going up to Taipei 101. Bravely off I went alone...

I was so thrilled when at the staff at the tickets counter told me “all 3 levels will be opened today”.
88th - exhibition and cafe
89th - viewing mall, tourist shop
91st - outdoor observatory, not always-opened
(subjected to the weather)

Snapped here, snapped there, snapped snapped everywhere
Viewed here, viewed there, viewed viewed everywhere
Walked up, walked down, walked walked everywhere

I made a friend at 89th floor as he was also alone, we helped each other to take photos. Haha! That’s the disadvantage of coming alone - no one to take picture for and with you.

There was a corner showing a video on the construction etc of Taipei 101, I very wanted to watch but I know I cant as there were two people who done with shopping waiting for me. Haha!

I left and went to meet up with them.
They were shocked that I spent so long up there.
Prior before that, I told them to go ahead to Tamsui without me but they said no as they don’t think I will spend so long at Taipei 101.

Haha! I myself was shocked too!
Actually could have be longer cause I have yet to enjoy the view with Starbucks coffee.

I be back, Taipei 101!

With the remainder time we have, we took train and rushed over to our last destination of the entire Taiwan trip, TamSui - another must come if you in Taiwan.

We walked around a little, settled at one and had their famous fishball - a must if you in Tamsui.

Then after some photos, we hurriedly left back to Friend HM’s sister’s place as we need to catch our flight that night. We realized Tamsui is actually a good place to walk, shop and eat.. just that we cant afford the time to.

The last photo of us together in Taiwan...

Friend HL and I arrived at Taoyuan Airport via train and bus safely and on time.

After we checked in, it was a loooooong wait as the airport is not as developed as Singapore’s so we literally just sat and waited.

Home sweet home~~

Taiwan Trip - Taipei #2

2012-02-26T16:08:00.013+08:00

17 Dec
Second day, full day @ Taipei
The day where I learned independency..
The day I conquered Taiwan train system…

We didn’t had a “natural wake up” but we were “scare awake”. Haha! Cause the hotel’s scary fire alarm went off and we literally jumped up from the bed.

With the help of a local, Friend HL and I found a breakfast shop @ XiMenDing where we filled our stomach. Woohoo! I love having breakfast in Taiwan!

We bought our train token and started our day tour with Taiwan train…

From our start-off station: XiMen station…

1st train stop: XinDian
We transited train there from Chiang Kai-Shen Memorial main station. With the help of the station staff, we boarded a bus that brought us to our first destination, Wu Lai.

We walked and viewed from shop to shop, and even to one of the museums.

Not forgetting we also tried many of the local food.

This stall is amazing… long queue!

Few days ago, we watched on the variety show recommending this stall. Two thumbs up for this guy!
Despite the heat and pressure (since so many people), he was well-mannered and polite to his customers.

We then continued with our walk to our main reason of coming here… Wu Lai Waterfall.
We went up and up and up and up the mountain and finally met Wu Lai Waterfall. We also met one of our JAMs students + her family.

We took the train and headed down the mountain.
Same way back - bus (like roller-coaster ride) to train station.

2nd train stop: HouShanPi
We followed the crowd and reached our second destination, WuFenPu Commercial Zone.
Apparently is a shopping-heaven! Haha!
Same like XiMenDing, WuFenPu also had alleysssssss and shopsssssss.
Friend HL and I walked separately and later met at train station.

3rd and final train station: Taipower Building
We transited the train at Taipei Main station.

We settled @ Burger King to rest our legs… and also to wait for Friend HM who was coming after her dinner with family.

Our third and final destination, Shi Da Night Market We did nothing but eat and eat and eat and eat. Haha! Friend HM recommended whats nice as previously she came with her family.

Here what we ate that night…

Throughout our stay in Taiwan, we mastered the art of eating while standing and eating while walking. Haha!

We were amazed that despite of the time, there were still crowd at the night market.

We made new Taiwan friends @ one of the shops too.
I was waiting while Friend HM and Friend HL were queuing to pay for the food then two people came out to me and asked am I queuing etc. I replied no and showed them where to queue etc. Then the lady kicked off by asking other questions like where am I from etc. And when Friend HM and Friend HL joined back, we chatted a while on Taiwan and Singapore before we exchange name on facebook and left.

Friend HM went on to her sister’s place while Friend HL and I headed to hotel, same thing were lost a little even with the map. Haha!

No good, No good

2012-02-21T21:26:00.012+08:00

I’m down… Feverish… =(
Already had "symptom" yesterday..

Approaching end of the school term?
Seem to be quite “common” whether is it the teachers or the little ones. Two of my colleagues are already down.

Been “overloaded” by work lately?
Mentally and physically being “stretched”, especially in the recent weeks. Cant wait for the final TEST next week (though there will be term-end work waiting for me).

Lack of sleep?
Opps! I shall be a good girl today get to bed after this blog.

Pray that I be well tomorrow … Cant afford to be sick now.
This is the season like what Principal always joke with the teachers caught eating heaty food that if we are sick, we still must report to school.

Hmm.. Haha..

2012-02-20T21:35:00.012+08:00

Was joking with one of my colleagues earlier that after the meeting tomorrow, I am going straight to my classroom and I am going to LOCK the door so as to prevent anyone from “grabbing” me away. Haha!

I can’t imagine it happened AGAIN today! @@!

Since last week, I was preparing myself to stay back today to mark remainder worksheets and to sort out all the worksheet.

I was also prepared that if my Level Head calls for lesson plan meeting, I may ask her to change day.

BUT.. BUT.. my "bubble" was burst immediately upon arrival in school.
Saw papers on Teachers' Board.. it was the schedule for this week (being excursion week) for ALL teachers.

Note: We are just one week away from the REAL test!

So for 1hr 30mins, we were not "allowed" to do own stuff but to pack, clean up, wipe the different parts and corners and trolleys in our classroom. Not forgetting to double check the safety measures.

After which was "hijacked" by Level Head to go through lesson plansss as her another head is "chasing" for it. Mind was stretched for 1hr+ as we looked through the changes/amendments.

Before we actually complete all lesson plan, the bell rang - Principal called for a "short" meeting to tighten our excursion tomorrow. -_-"

It was already 6pm when the "short" meeting ended.
I did whatever I can in the little time before I left at 7plus as I know I need to get to the library before it closes.

There will be a meeting after excursion tomorrow.
After that, I really wish and want to do my own stuff...
* keeping fingers crossed *

Tiredness & Fruitfulness

2012-02-15T23:31:00.009+08:00

Last week been packed, a mixture of tiredness and fruitfulness.

Tiredness - hours spent in school
Despite the many days of not-enough-sleep, I wasn’t really tired physically… just sleepy. But I was more tired mentally actually, really felt drained at the end of the school day.

Fruitfulness - hours spent with friends
One of my SOT teammates, Teammate JI and Friend AT were in town!

Thurs
Teammate EM and I went to welcome and pick them at the airport...

Sat - Teammate EM and I waited for them to have supper after Chinese service...

Sun
Mission to “surprise” them and Teammate EM failed

Mon
Teammate EM, Teammate Mama and I met them up for crabby dinner...

Tues
Attended Dr Robi’s seminar together

Wed
Teammate EM, Teammate LN, Teammate HM and I met them up for dinner and also to celebrate Teammate JI's birthday...

Thurs
Attended session with Pst Bill Wilson together

tired BUT fruitful indeed!

Failed

2012-02-13T22:09:00.006+08:00

Encountered "it" again recently.
As I know that I am not ready, I chose to walk away and also not to ask any questions.

Saw "it" again today.. went straight from =) to -_-
Getting irritated by myself too.

Come on, Ah Ni!
You need to conquer "it" asap! You need to move on!

Turnover

2012-02-13T21:31:00.005+08:00

I call it the “weekly morning exercise".
This is what awaits me every Monday morning…

And within 30mins, have to turn the place into…

The cycle continues when we have to push back everything on Friday.

Mental Battle

2012-02-12T19:37:00.009+08:00

7 Feb
Crucial day for our school.. the day we been cleaning, wiping, checking hard for.. The atmosphere was tense that morning..

Two officers from MOE came and started their very detailed-check around the common areas and classrooms. They literally placed their fingers on the top of boards, doors etc to check for dust. After which they had a thorough-read of our school’s SOP.

Overall they gave feedbacks, opinions and made requests etc.
At the end of the day, we were informed that … … … we PASSED!
Thank God we passed on the spot if not the officers would be back 3days later and I cant and dont want to imagine how much more INTENSE it will be during the 3days.

The officers gave good feedbacks about our school’s SOP - short and simple where Mrs E Tan came to thank me as I had some of my fingerprints on it. Thank God for His grace and favor!

It been ~2years that our school been gearing for Sparks.
Never expect it to be so intense.
Recently my colleagues and I were talking where we agreed that the first round of Safety & Hygiene check already so intense, we cant imagine how it will be when the final test come end of this month.

The first round of Safety & Hygiene been tiring, more to physically for the teachers. Trust me, the cleaning was no joke!
From cupboardss to shelvess to trolleyss to objectss to windowss to doorss to common areas to EVERY holesss and cornersss.
The ultimate was when I have to use a cotton bud and clean through the inner part of the door lock.

But the final test this end of month is going to be tiring, mentally.
Though is still ~2wks away but we can already feel the pressure.
Unlike the first test which is more practical and “controllable”, the final test wont be.

The officers will be with us entire 3days to observe our teachers, our children, our curriculum, our transition, our teaching, our interaction, our lesson, our lesson plans etc etc.

Few teachers will also be selected to go through hours of “questioning” where officers will post questions on school’s vision, philosophy, mission and SOP etc.

On top of daily do-list and the agendas already on hand (eg. collection of $$), sudden-list (trust me, can be quite a lot) just pop in.

Like science experiments, projects, Dr Toh Chin Chye, learning corners, lesson plans, learning stories, invented stories and new ideas of Mrs E Tan etc.
Throughout this week, tasks after tasks were added. Just when I wanted to start clearing, we were called for a meeting where we spent 1hr to talk about ONE storybook.

Can I confess that Miss Lim's mental capacity is reaching its max - this quite rare as is not even Wk9 or Wk10 yet.
There wasn't much =) on Miss Lim, especially during her time in school.

Shhh...
No good sign - feelings of "fear" and "sian" surfacing when I think about another school week starting tomorrow

I... I.... I...

2012-02-05T20:56:00.018+08:00

I thought it was a little.. I thought it will go..
But .. .. .. I'm wrong
I thought no difference.. I thought I be fine..
But .. .. .. I'm wrong
I thought I can, soon.. I thought I will, soon..
But .. .. .. I'm wrong, I can't

I know I must.. I know I have to, soon..

12hrs

2012-02-01T22:39:00.029+08:00

Spent solid 12hrs in school today.. Tired..
Z Laoshi was not around so I took the entire morning and the entire afternoon sessions - no rest, no voice break.
Straight after was a 2hrs staff meeting. Then cleared outstanding agendas before I left school @ 8pm but not back home, I went to get art materials.

Still have work to do later but just wanted to give myself a little break first and also needed a place to “release”. -_-

Today is the second time (for this year) that I broke my “own rules” of not bringing work home. Brought worksheets home to mark last week.

The “price” to pay for leaving early during the first few weeks of school thus not clearing them immediately so it piled up. Thought to myself that if I don’t clear, my head will grow bigger this week.

Next Tues is the “crucial day“ for our school - 1st stage of Sparks, check on Safety & Hygiene. Once we clear that then we can move on to the “real big day” end of this month where MOE examiners will be with us for 3days to observe the teachers, interview some and check out the curriculum etc.

In preparation for the “crucial day”, we been staying back addition 1hr everyday to wipe, to clean and to tidy up common areas, classrooms, learning trolleys etc etc. Not forgetting to look into other aspects. All teachers are on high alert - no joke, this is how intense it is. I'm shocked too!

On top of that, we have to get ourselves ready for the "real big day" end this month too. These are all on top of our daily/weekly work load. The “price” to pay for being in an always-on-the-ball school?

Tired? Yes I am… not just physically I guess. -_-
But on the other hand, I’m glad I’m packed and especially lately as when I’m busy, I don’t seem to be bother/thinking about “it” but the moment I’m left alone, “it” will troubled me. Cant/Wont be sharing much, it shall remains as "parable" for now but praying that I can get over "it" quickly.

Taiwan Trip - Taipei #1

2012-01-28T21:25:00.001+08:00

16 Dec
First night @ Taipei

Teammate JI was with Friend HL and I as we checked in the hotel, Itrip Taipei Inn and after that a walk around XiMenDing.

We brought different snack to munch along our way.

We also had a must-have when in XiMenDing, long-queue with local and tourist - Ah Chong Mee Suan! One of my regrets during my 3days stays in Taipei… I only had it once! Haha!

We then walked Teammate JI to her car. Gave her a hug.
That hug seems to be a “killer”… almost left me in tears. Haha!

Friend HL and I continued to walk/shop in XiMenDing.
The place is really big with many shops and alleys and junctions.
Though Friend HL did most of the shopping but I’m happy just to be in XiMenDing to look around at people and shops etc. I often heard and see XiMenDing on variety show/drama but now I’m actually there.

To walk back to our hotel is definitely a “challenge” as every alleys look the same. Haha!
The responsibility falls on me and thank God - with the help of map and some initial memory, managed to get ourselves back to the hotel.

The night ended with watching variety show, a must especially when you in Taiwan. Haha!

to be continued...

Taiwan Trip - Hsinchu #3

2012-01-27T23:37:00.007+08:00

16 Dec
Last, half day @ Hsinchu

We loaded our luggage up to Teammate JI's car before we started our day. A rather cold cold day~~~

1st stop - Shen Keng
Despite the drizzling rain, we walked along the Old Street with many of the shops were under construction but it was a nice experience looking at what they sell - whether edible or inedible.

We took on a “challenge” - to eat coldcold icecream and cold cold tofu-alike dessert on the coldcold day. Haha! Nice taste!
One of which has an unique strong “burnt-smell”.

We also settled at one of the makan place for lunch, spicy tofu + duck blood, Shen Keng tofu and "oil rice". I quite like the "oil rice" actually, very very simple without any side dishes, just rice with sauce.

2nd stop - Jiu Fen
It was then another quite-long journey up the mountain to Jiu Fen - the place where the three of us almost freeze to ice. Haha!

To add on to the low temperature of 11degree, it was raining!

We squeezed through the crowd from shop to shop along their famous Old Street.

Till once we cant take it anymore so we quickly found a café and settled for a hot drink.

But the warmed-effect was gone immediately we stepped out of the café. -_-
After a short, very short walk… though there were still alleys we yet to conquer but we decided to end cause it was too cold. We headed back to the car in the rain + strong wind. Grrrrrhhhhh~~~

Teammate JI drove down the mountain before she had another long long drive up Taipei.

Salute her from the bottom of my heart - not a single moment of tiredness or sleepiness.
I very much wanted to accompany her so struggled BIG time to keep awake.. Haha! But I failed for a while, fall asleep but quickly woke up and continued to talk to her. =p

Thats the end of our trip @ Hsinchu!
A big THANK YOU to Teammate JI and Friend AN for their great hospitality and love!

From picking us from Taoyuan Airport at late late night (despite having an important event the next day) to sending us to Taipei to the many many long ridessssss. Not forgetting opening up their house for us to stay over.

Taiwan Trip - Hsinchu #2

2012-01-27T23:05:00.010+08:00

15 Dec
Our second day @ Hsinchu

The day started early with just Teammate JI, Friend HL and I as Friend AT was sick so she stayed in.

Really appreciate Teammate JI from the deep deep bottom of my heart. It was literally a long drive-drive day. Apparently there are many places in Hsinchu where is quite difficult to travel to.

We were at this place with old buildings, streets and shops where we entered one to try their local make-it-yourself tea-alike drink.

Though it looks ok-ok but it has an unique taste. I like it!

It was then another drive to the next destination where we walked along the Old Street and also sat on a train to travel.. we wanted that experience but didn't expect it was a looooong journey. Haha!

After we "touched" down and continued a walk shortly before we left.

We headed back to Teammate JI’s house for a short rest before we went out for dinner, this time together with Friend AT who was feeling much better.

We went to this Beef Noodles Restaurant, opened by Friend AT’s uncle.
The noodles - texture good!
The beef - big and juicy!
The soup - tasty!
Overall - simply delicious!

After which, we went to a shop where they sell ladies' use - basically anything and everything. Check out how big the place is!

The night again ended with another cup of bubble tea - new flavor, Yakult + Green tea. This brand is a new brand in Taiwan, heard is quite popular. I like! Fresh and nice!

to be continued...

Taiwan Trip - Hsinchu #1

2012-01-27T22:43:00.002+08:00

14 Dec
Our first day @ Hsinchu

We reached Hsinchu station successfully on our own.
Upon reaching, Teammate JI was there to pick Friend HL and me up.

As she need to be at her students’ care, we tagged along as well.
We just sat around and to see see look look when the children were doing artwork. And used the wifi available to catch up on facebook.

We excused ourselves shortly to the nearby 7-11 to have our lunch, cup noodles! Simple but nice!

Check out their 7-11, everything-also-have!

There was a moment where one of Teammate JI’s teachers brought us to her house which is opposite the church and shared with us the testimonies upon testimonies of her parents and family - we were amazed and blessed.

We spent almost half a day at the students’ care.
It was already past 7pm after they dismissed the children.

We then left to have dinner, a must-have when you in Hsinchu.
Pictures paint thousand words...

After which was a short shop at the Night Markets and some shops before we headed back home.

The night ended with watching entertainment show + bubble tea + fellowship... in the comfort of Teammate JI and Friend AN's house.

to be continued...

Taiwan Trip - Kaoshiung #3

2012-01-25T20:04:00.007+08:00

14 Dec
Last morning @ Kaoshiung

We had our breakfast in the hotel before we set off on our own to the train station then transited to High-Speed train station.

Teammate JL wanted to send there but I rejected her. Haha!
Already felt bad to have her to spend two full days with us - Mon being her official off day and Tues she actually specially applied leave for us.

The "hit-the-heart" moment was when we stepped out of the hotel and saw the sun!!! Cause it was raining almost throughout our 2days @ Kaoshiung and the day we were about to leave, the sun came out!

Relying on our memory, with our luggage, we walked to train station independently. We changed to the High-Speed train station where the three of us separated - Friend HL and I left to Hsinchu while Friend HM left to Tainan to meet her family.

The end of our trip @ Kaoshiung...

A big THANK YOU to Teammate JL and Friend WC for the great hospitality!

Not forgetting Teammate JL for her time, two days worth of time (during her busy period @ work) to keep us accompanied.

Gong Xi Gong Xi

2012-01-23T09:34:00.007+08:00

Huat ah!!!
Gong Xi Gong Xi to all my blog readers!

ps: needn't read those titled "Taiwan Trip - XXX" as it may be slightly longwinded... Haha! It just my way of keeping as a memory.

Taiwan Trip - Kaoshiung #2

2012-01-23T08:55:00.017+08:00

13 Dec
Second day @ Kaoshiung

While Teammate JL settled some stuff @ work, the 3 of us had our breakfast at the hotel, a must-have as the hotel has unique breakfast.

A car-less day as we wanted to travel by public transport.
Teammate JL brought us to see the different beautiful train station where one common for all is that all are quite people-less.

1st stop - Sizihwan Station
We walked and changed ferry to Ci Jin island

The only spoiler for the day was the rain but thank God it went smaller and eventually stopped when we arrived at the island.

We rented an interesting means of transport - 4wheel bicycle to travel round island. Took the front seats with Teammate JL and apparently that’s most physical-demanding. Haha!

We stopped over a few parks to see see look look.

We reached safely at our main destination, Wind-power Park where we spent quite a while there to enjoy the view, the breeze and of course to rest our tired legs.

On our way back, we stopped at 7-11 to fill our stomach and replenished our body liquid. We returned the bike and continue the tour with our (tired) feet. We went to the market and the little shops to look around as well. Tried a few local food too.

We walked and walked and walked and walked till we reached Cihou Fort, a place we didn’t planned for actually. Still, we had fun looking around and taking photos too.

We then set off, again walked and walked and walked till we reached the place we really looking for, Ci Jin Star Tunnel. Though the tunnel was “scary” as there were many stray dogs but the view at the opposite end of the tunnel was amazing.

By the time we left the island it was already “tian hei hei” but still it was only like 6plus. That’s one thing I cant get used to it in Taiwan - it looks like 8plus9 when is only 5plus.

We had our light munch (famous @ Ci Jin) and heavy and BIG freshly fruit dessert.

We headed back to the hotel where Teammate JL drove us to the next destination, a must-go when you in Kaoshiung and especially for its night view - Love River.

But before that, we stopped for Kaoshiung’s famous Hot Grass Jelly.
Unique! Never tasted before! Nice!

@ Love River, we took the solar-powered boat to tour around the Love River. Like! Love! Like! Love!
I simply love the night scenery there!
Coincidentally also met one of my JAMs students’ family there too.

We continued to tour around the river by feet before we set off to another famous spot of Kaoshiung, the 85 Tower. We wanted to go up initially but due to the weather as it may be fogy, we didn’t.

The night ended with Taiwan’s famous cup noodles for supper and resting our super tired legs.

Walked Teammate JL to her car… gave her all the presents as it will be the “last time” I see her.
We had a good short chat too. Feel that she has so much to share but cant as it was getting late.

to be continued...

Taiwan Trip - Kaoshiung #1

2012-01-23T08:22:00.015+08:00

12 Dec
First day @ Kaoshiung

Teammate JL came to pick us at Kaoshiung station.
We were really pampered!

We stopped by at a western restaurant Teammate JL visits often and also famous for its spaghetti for our lunch. Nice! Big portion but cheaper than Singapore’s. Haha!

Teammate JL then drove us to check in at Icon Hotel. It was one of the many hotels both she and her boyfriend found. Apparently this Icon Hotel is pretty new and considers a premium hotel, we actually paid TW5000 (2 nights) and that’s like half price cause of some promotion.

But guess it was a worth-stay, everything good there!
Check out the length of its toilet!

Despite the not-that-heavy rain, we left for our first destination.

1st stop - 3D Trick Museum A place
Teammate JL told me about it before we came over and it was also a place she been wanting to go but didn’t have chance to.

We spent sold few hours there having fun and taking photosssssss.
(many more can be found at facebook)

2nd stop - shopping @ one its famous location
We went from shop to shop and even went to one of the bookshops.

We also had our first cup of 50Lan aka Koi.

Friend WC, Teammate JL’s boyfriend came over to join us after his work. Appreciate his presence and time. We know each other as previously he came to support Teammate JL at her SOT graduation and all of went touring Sentosa. A nice and friendly guy.

3rd stop - steamboat dinner Delicious!
Very different from Singapore’s style.
We had our more-than-enough share of Duck Blood.

Teammate JL and Friend WC sent us back to the hotel where we spent a while fellowship then they left for a looooooong way home.

Looking the map below, the place they stay is somewhere on the yellow paper. Haha!

to be contiuned...

Geeky Hours - 2

2012-01-21T20:23:00.020+08:00

15 Jan 2012 - the day we been waiting and working hard for

The committee met up 2hrs before the event to setup and to decorate the place. Though time was tight and packed but thank God we managed to do up what we planned to.

“Geeky Hours” started according to plan… from opening to makan to special songs performance to games to special song item to video to awards presentation to speeches.

During the makan time was also the time the committee members had their lunch (finally!) at 3plus and also to final run through the flow of the segments.

The special songs performance by the various BVs kicked off well, especially this brother! Salute him!

Games time by Geeky JL and Geeky JK was fun and amazing!
To me, is always a challenge “controlling” JAMs workers crowd as they tend to get overly excited. Haha! But felt that both Geeky JL and Geeky JK did a great job. And when I saw their props, I just went wow!

Next was song item "Thank you for being my friend" by our three talented committee members, Geeky CN & Geeky JK and Geeky HH where photos of workers were played.

It was then awards presentation by Geeky ZS and myself. Though is her first time hosting in front of JAMs crowd but felt she was steady and did a great job.

The event ended with speeches from different zone rep to their ZS and Pst to the workers.

We gave up the door gifts and t-shirts before we cleared and packed up the place. Settled $$ matters before the committee left the place last for a good dinner and cold cold drink! Haha!

With good will come bad?

After much time spent preparing for games, there were a group of workers outside the room and not participating while both Game Masters were hosting with their might and strength. Wonder how will they feel it they were the ones leading/prepared.

And after much planning/brainstorming by the committee, you have workers coming to you “complaining” about the venue, about the dressing up and about the time the event will end. Like … if you are unhappy then you can plan for the next one. Guess you just cant please everyone.

Nevertheless, the committee received good feedbacks of a job well-done for the event.

Though the “timing” was not right personally for me where felt stretched but it was a great experience being in the committee with efficient and excellent committee members!

Geeky Hours - 1

2012-01-21T19:40:00.012+08:00

“Geeky Hours“ - our theme for JAMs thanksgiving 2011

Attended many times of thanksgiving but this is the first (and last time?!) I’m in the committee.

The committee met up two weeks before the event.
Thank God all of them were quite on, all turned up except one.

We brainstormed the theme, the programs, the logistics, the food, what to be done, who in-charge of what etc.

As it was the last weekend before the event, we had to rush the invitation card so one of the committee members, Geeky CN spent that night to design the card and the next day printed with the courtesy of another worker.

I must admit Geeky CN is fast!
He designed fast, sent fast and amended fast!

The cards printed = The start of “nightmare”
There were 100 x 2 (two sides) to be cut and paste.

As the rest couldn’t make it, Geeky JL and I met up and spent hours on “factory line” work where we cut and cut and cut and CUT and paste and paste and paste and PASTE!
Geeky JL’s husband came to lend a hand too. In that few hours, we only managed to settle the invitation cards for workers for Sat services so we brought the rest home.

Even later that Sat, Geeky ZS and Geeky JL and I met up again to finish up the outstanding cards.

During that two weeks, every committee members take charge of their own “to-do list” and updated each other via whatsapp chatroom.

Few days before the actual event, a few of us met up for another “factory line” work - to pack the door gifts for the workers.

As for me, I met up with Pst to finalize the different awards’ nominees and winners. After which brainstormed the name of the awards and then off to settle the trophies and gifts.

Set aside a day to go Queensway to check out then ordered the trophies. And another day to Daiso to get the stands.

Got to also look into other logistics as I was “arrowed” to be the chairperson. -_-

I also met up to pass the recorded videos (over the last weekend) to another worker who helped to compile so to show on the actual day.

Last few nights to the event, I spent hours doing up powerpoint - photos of workers and photos for flashback 2011.

The day before the event, with the help of different workers, went to pick up the trophies before we drove and carried down the packs and packs and packs of gifts to the place where our event will be held.

to be continued...

Taiwan Trip - Tainan #3

2012-01-20T20:27:00.019+08:00

12 Dec
Last morning @ Tainan
Upon receiving my call in the morning, Teammate SM reached our hotel unbelievable fast! And with famous local breakfast (our first breakfast for the day) too! He came to send us off.

We checked out from the hotel which other than no wifi in our room (cause it was low level), the rest are pretty good - especially the location and the hotel staff.

Soon, Teammate YG arrived with one of her friends. Despite having to settle stuff for work, she insisted to send us to the train station. But before that, they drove us for second breakfast, to a place famous for its mutton soup. We had a good fellowship too.

Bid goodbye to Teammate YG!

It was an “interesting” experience @ the train station. We were comfortably enjoying our cup of coffee then we realized the train at the platform could be our train so we immediately took our luggage and went as fast as we can.

Actually before Teammate YG left, she told us that we need to cross to the opposite platform and that there will be long stairs too BUT we didn’t expect that it was so long thus when we finally reached the opposite platform … we missed our train. Haha! Thank God the ticket allowed us to take the next train as well.

That’s the end of our 2days @ Tainan - fruitful, eventful and of course stomach very full. =p

All thanks to Teammate SM and Teammate YG.
Not forgetting Teammate SM’s parents who constantly called to ask how we were, have we eaten etc. And Teammate YG’s parents who ensured we were well-taken of. Thanks everyone!

busy

2012-01-19T21:51:00.004+08:00

Hmmm, don’t quite like the way I started 2012.
As school just started thus the busyness too.

Few things to settle being the first week of school (orientation week) - finalized admin, new child came in, looked into welfare of the children and other aspects. Next one to two weeks was to settle the children, address discipline, get into the routine and get started with lesson etc.

Felt stretched during the first two weeks, not just physically but mentally too as I was busy inside out, outside in. I had to juggle between school work and some other agendas as I was one of the committee members for JAMs’ thanksgiving.

I stayed back till 5plus or 6plus everyday. There are days where I left school without “peace” cause I know there are work undone but I have no choice but to leave cause have appointment to buy or to do something.

Felt quite bad actually as I very much wanted to give much of my attention to school, at least for this first few weeks of the term. But sad to say, I didn’t managed as there were too many things that flooded my mind and took up my time.

Other than work load in school, I got to:
organize two personal events for friends..
attend committee meeting…
on and off look into the logistic…
settle/finalize other aspects..
“brew” sermon…

Is just like when I am free, I am free.
If not, everything will come together at the same time.

Finally the event, Geeky Hours ended successfully last week.
Finally I can catch back my sleep…

First

2012-01-03T22:20:00.013+08:00

FIRST entry of the brand new year, 2012!
Let me kick of the first entry with a heart of gratitude!

SOT in 2011 would not be possible without…

My parents
Despite my last minute notice and lack of information, there wasn’t any objection when I made known that I'm going to attend bible school for 6mths. My initial plan was actually to study and work at the same time. Worried that it will be tiring, my dad actually offered to support me financially. Throughout the 6mths, my dad supported me financially without any nags or complains.
Thank you for your understanding and support!

Dajie aka Pst Lily!
Thank you for always being there - encouraged me before SOT.. watched cheered, supported and helped me during SOT.. rejoiced with me after SOT!

Adiel
Thank you for being my “Barnabas” - always so timely in the msgs you sent, never ever fails to lift and cheer me up!

“Anonymous”
Till today I still don’t know who he/she/they are. Actually I do have my guess to who but I guess I won’t know the answer until I get to heaven. Haha!

Hensa & Eena
Thank you two for the blessing of books!

Mrs E Tan & colleagues
Thank you ladies for being there to cheer, to pray, to support and to bless me! Special thanks to my mentor, DJD and best partner Z Laoshi for always ensuring I am ok!

Team 8
For being such an awesome team and bravo friends!

Friends
Thank you to those who had in one way or another made a difference in my 6mths SOT journey!

Most importantly, words cant be enough to express my greatest gratitude to my Heavenly Papa! Thank you for EVERYTHING and EVERYTHING!

Last

2011-12-31T06:47:00.004+08:00

Last blog entry for 2011...

a big THANK YOU to all my blog’s faithful readers… the “oldcomers” and the “newcomers”

This blog is really a place I “vomit” everything.
Thank you for bearing my negativeness, complaints, pains etc.
Thank you for sharing my joy during my up-moments too!

Here wishing all a Happy 2012!
Cheers to a fantastic 2012!

I'm blessed!

2011-12-31T06:40:00.007+08:00

“If is God’s will, He will provide the way”
Had a “Blessed List” before, during and even after SOT.
Here are some of them.

Before SOT…
#1 - cash blessings

$$$ from school
Got the highest-ever-record from cny honbao
Just when I thought 3mths installment for SOT.

$1800 came from an anonymous … cleared the school fees.

#2 - new books
Received much help from different ones to help find/ask around for the books I needed for SOT. At the end of the day, was blessed by Hensa & Eena with six brand new books.

The amazing thing was that after that, someone actually blessed them 5x the amount they blessed me. Wow!

#3 - parents’ support and acknowledgment
Dad offered to pay for school fees so that I don’t have to work and study at same time.
He even willingly gave me (on loan) monthly allowances or anytime I need $$.

During SOT…
#1 - jobs offer
Though initially experienced many closed doors but God is good, those closed doors were actually in the wild wild west. After which passed two interviews and was accepted by two childcares with good pay too.

#2 - $$ from government
Very timely! Very divine!
On 7 April, I decided not to work so when I was worried about my income… I saw the letter from government upon reaching home.

#3 - pay increment notice
Received sms from Mrs E Tan that after I’m back to work after SOT, I will get to enjoy pay increment. Just imagine increase took place even when I was not at work.

#4 - bdae blessings
Love offering from kakis, zone, Pst, Efi…
Treats from kakis, team, zone, Rick/Zhi/Min, May…

#5 - ezlink card with solid amount from Yanjie
Though she gave me as belated present but it was so timely - just when I needed.

#6 - $$ from Friend A
This really shocked me as I have ever heard about it but experience personally. Before this, I was praying to God for financial blessing.
I prayed. I believed. Off I went for mission.
I received a sms from Friend A when I was in Philippines that Friend A accidentally transferred $xx to my account. I then told Friend A that as I’m away for mission trip, I will transfer back the money when I return.

Upon knowing I’m at mission, Friend A immediately replied “You don’’t have to return the $$ to me, treat it as a mission blessing to you!”
I was shocked and of course is a no-no to me but Friend A refused to let me know the bank number for me to do transfer back.
Of course months later I managed to write a “thank you” note and passed secretly with the cash. Felt that I cant accept the money but then and then I really went “Wow!“, God is so real and can be creative in the way He blesses you. Haha!

#7 - free meals
From cg members, from SOT friends and even from colleagues.

After SOT…
#1 - graduation giftssss… in the form of gift and $$

#2 - flooded with love from cg, JAMs, team and friends

#3 - job waiting for me

After 6mths of SOT…
Found and established great friendship... definitely priceless!

ps: this won't be last post about SOT
still has many drafts yet to complete... Haha!

counting... down...

2011-12-30T14:10:00.008+08:00

3days to brand new school year…

As always, will definitely have mixed feelings before school starts.
A part of me cant wait for school to start but a part of me hopes time can slow down. Usually the mixed feelings caused by rested too much VS the start of work again.

But this time the mixed feelings somehow seem different.
Though one thing for sure - no matter what and when, Miss Lim will always be excited to see the children and start teaching again.

Earlier I was just thinking “Time flies! School reopens next week!” and for a moment, fear, literally fear came in.
Prexxxxx from the school or prexxxxx from myself?

Probably as kindergarten I’m in is definitely different, way different from the last few kindergartens I’m was in... I know what awaits for me when school reopens.
The commitment, the work load, the expectations etc.
And to add on would be the accreditation that school is gearing up for.

Jiayou Miss Lim Jiayou!
Got to stay focus and positive! =)

Taiwan Trip - Tainan #2

2011-12-29T15:21:00.023+08:00

11 Dec
2nd day @ Tainan
The day started sweetly to have Teammate SM specially prepared a bottle of water for us and not forgetting, more thicker jackets!

He drove us to one of his favorite breakfast shop, Dou Jiang Sao.
Yum Yum Yummy! It was another hearty breakfast!
Can I say again… I love Taiwan breakfast!!!

After that, Teammate SM drove to pick Teammate YG who just ended her morning prayer meeting.
Very sweet of her also brought us thicker jacket.

It was also very nice of Teammate SM’s mum who called Teammate SM just to ask about us - where we were and have we eaten already. Very touched by her move.

First stop - Tainan Confucian Temple
We had some “activities” before we walked around the temple and took some photos.

We then went to the Old Street across the road. We had our first try of “salty ice-cream” where we had some "joke" there.

Check out the flavors ... How will you read it?

At the place we had some finger food too - the lady boss very quickly placed some sticks to our plate. Thank God we were fast even to react if not we may ended by eating and paying more. Haha!

We were also brought to two special café which I suppose if we were on our own, we probably wont be able to find/see.

Next stop - National Museum of Taiwan Literature
We had some fun reading/looking through the history.

Was then also on the phone with Teammate YG’s mum. She was happy and excited that we were in Taiwan and kept asking Teammate YG to take good care of us. We also made a deal that the next Taiwan trip, we will visit her in Hualian.

Next - Sogo Shopping Mall
It was their last day of GTS - Great Taiwan Sales.
A super big mall that after much walking, walking, walking and walking… we only managed to conquer HALF of the mall.

Next stop - "Du Xiao Yue"
A must have when you come Tainan.
Nice combination of their noodles and sauce!

Basically there are food everywhere in Tainan, there supposed to be another nice makan place just across the road but we didn't managed to try cause yet to open.

They then brought us to have another famous, winter melon drink.
A person who don't really like winter melon also find it nice, seriously!

Then we dropped by at Chihkan Tower
We just took some photos before we proceed to the next makan place (oops! eat again?!).

Final stop where we had another famous dish and dessert of Tainan.

After that, Teammate SM drove us back to the hotel before he went back home. We rested while waiting for Teammate JL and her boyfriend WC.

Likewise been 4mths since I last see Teammate JL who I also had been in contact with via facebook and whatsapp… we went crazy when we met! The other person who pressed the bell many timessssss to make known her arrival.

The 3 of us had a good catch up - once we started talking, it seem like we cant stop. You see… it been 4mths since we last catch up. Haha!

We then hopped on Teammate JL’s car to conquer Garden Night Market for the 2nd time. We were really “pampered“… everywhere we go, we have car to travel in.

Personally, I’m already very impressed by Teammate SM’s speed in conquering food at night market on the first night.
Was even blown away by Teammate YG and Teammate JL too on the second night. They have fast legs and hands too.
Without any hesitating, once they see it, they buy it and eat it!

Just before you can finish the packet of food on your hands, they already put another packet of food on your hands. Haha!

But I guess that’s the fun of going night market with friends. Is good to go with friends too - just buy small portion and share around, so with that you can buy and try more varieties.

"pictures speak more delicious than words"...

There are more than just food stalls at the night market.
We also went around shopping.

I hereby declare … … we have conquered the ENTIRE night market!
All thanks to Teammate YG who strategized walking in a way that we wont repeat same alley twice.

Straight after, literally straight after our “dinner”… Teammate YG brought us to a place for famous “pig heart soup” and then lastly for almond dessert.

The night ended, really ended with the final dessert, fruit.

* burp *

to be continued...

Taiwan Trip - Tainan #1

2011-12-28T21:44:00.034+08:00

10 Dec
1st day @ Tainan We successfully arrived at our destination, Tainan.

Met up Teammate YG!!!
Been 4mths since we last met… joy x10 when I met her!

Really appreciate her that despite of her busyness at work, she still came and picked us.

Of course whether Teammate JI, Teammate YG or later Teammate JL, I did told them needn’t come to fetch, we will take our own transport to the hotel but none of them actually take my suggestion. Haha!

Teammate YG left to work after we checked and settled down in the room. She also briefly told us about the surroundings of our hotel, where to eat/shop and how to get to her church for service later.

The moment I have access to wifi, I saw Teammate SM’s msg asking whether have I arrive in Taiwan so then I gave him a call. He was excited but was shocked that we were left “alone” so he immediately offered to bring us around.
He was fast! After the call, he actually reached within 30mins!

Ever since we graduated from SOT, he been one of the overseas teammates who I'm very much in contact with - whether via facebook or whatsapp. So the feeling was awesome to be able to meet him up face to face after 4mths too.

Our packed and fruitful day started after we met up with Teammate SM. His intention was to make our every hour and every minute counts so he was fast in deciding/bringing us from place to place to place and from eating this to drinking that to eating this and drinking that.
Seriously it was really because of Teammate SM that we visited so many places and ate so many varieties of food in just few hours.

First up - we had the first bubble tea in Taiwan!
Nice choice! Think they are friends of Teammate SM too.

We grabbed our drink and off we went to next destination, Tainan’s Gold Coast - the place where we regretted not wearing thicker jacket. Haha!

But seriously I love the view there - basically anything that has clear sea and wide clear sky will interest me and catch my attention.

There are stalls at the side so we also had our many first try.

Rice Blood
Made of chicken’s blood and glutinous rice, difficult to describe the taste. Only can say we don’t quite enjoy it? Haha!

Rice sausage wrapped with Taiwanese sausage
The taste + the sauce = fantastic!

We don’t sit and eat but everything was on the go - eat as you walk.

Next stop - Lin Mou Liang Park
The wind there was strong! Haha!
We walked around, took some photos and left to the next destination.

Up next, a must when you visit to Tainan, AnPing Street.

This was where we get to learn about the stories of AnPing Bean Jelly & MaoQi Black Bean Jelly.

While majority went for the tourists’ choice, we went for the choice of the residents of Tainan. After we tried both, we were on the Tainan residents’ side. Their bean jelly tasted smoother actually - like those “melt in your mouth” kind.

Final stop (for the afternoon), AnPing Old Street which due to the time, we had a quick walk/shop.

Teammate YG called to ask where we were.
Not knowing we were with Teammate SM, she was shocked that we went to so many places.
This made me confirm that truly if not for Teammate SM, we wont be able to go to so many places on our own.

Teammate SM quickly but safely drove us to Great Light Church to meet up with Teammate YG to attend their weekly youth service. We feel young again! Haha!

We were given headset, just in case the pastor preached in dialect but overall ok, can understand his preaching in Chinese. The youth was on fire, very responsive to the pastor’s preaching too.
Though the service was pretty long but overall enjoyed myself.
Was blown away by some of their testimonies too.

Just before we left with Teammate SM who came by to pick us, we met up his mum who shared with us shortly about her health which we did heard a bit from Teammate SM.
I was given the great honor to pray for the mum. I prayed shortly in English then in Chinese - trust me! I was really depending on the Holy Spirit for words. Haha!

Really thank God, He showed up cause usually when I pray in Chinese, my tongue will get twisted and will pray in “parable” but this time I successfully prayed completely and fully in Chinese.
I’m proud of myself too! Haha!

Teammate SM then drove us to Tainan’s famous night market, Garden Night Market for a time of feasting! We literally ate from the moment we reached till the moment we left.
Nothing can stop us, not even the rain! Haha!

Is one thing to watch on television and from the mouth of others about Taiwan’s night market and is another to experience yourself.

Woohoo! Let the pictures do the talking to what we ate that night…

That night, Teammate SM really had a mission - to feed us all the famous and delicious food of Tainan. Haha!

After a solid ~1hr of eating, Teammate SM brought us to have crispy chicky. A must when you come Taiwan so you know what’s the real one compare to Singapore’s. But by then we were too, too full that we can only shared one though he brought each of us one.

The night of “Feasting Mission” ended with a soya bean drink from the famous breakfast/supper place.

That night we were blessed by the very thoughtful family of Teammate SM. Teammate SM knowing we were freezing cold in the day actually brought us more thicker jackets which really helped to warm us!
So for the night, beside our own shirts, we were actually wearing a thick jacket and another thicker jacket of his.

And his mum actually bought each of us a box of pineapple tarts.

to be continued...

Taiwan Trip - Part 2

2011-12-26T16:01:00.031+08:00

9 Dec
The day we been waiting for!

Friend HM took a different airline from Friend HL and I. Other than the delay in the take-off, everything else like check-in, boarding and landing etc went well.
We arrived at Taoyuan Airport way past midnight. Felt bad to make Teammate JI and her friend AY waited for us.

Due to some miscommunication, we had some “hide-and-seek” at the airport as we were at Terminal 2 while Friend HM at Terminal 1. For a moment we thought we “lost” her. Haha!

We settled at Teammate JI and her friend AY’s house for the night.
It was already 3am plus after we washed up, settled down and slept.
Of course we were ok but felt bad for Teammate JI and friend AY who need to wake up early for an important event.

Cooling room temperature to sleep in.
No aircon, no fan but just slight open to the window yet it feels like aircon is on! Haha! Very thoughtful of the hosts to prepare a heater.

10 Dec
Our first official day @ Taiwan where we spent the morning @ Hsinchu.

We were given a choice but I chose not to sleep in but woke up and left home at same time with Teammate JL and friend AY. This means that Friend HL and Friend HM too.. Ooops!

We dropped by a while at their church to see their rehearsal before we had our breakfast at a breakfast shop nearby.

One of the concepts I like in Taiwan is actually their breakfast shop.
Gave me motivation to take breakfast in the morning too. Haha!

Teammate JI then drove us to train station where we changed to a cab. Though we were new to HSR station and train but thank God with the help of the signboards and confirmation from station staff, we managed to get to the right platform and right train.

It was our first experience on High-Speed-Railway (HSR) train.

Off we set to our first destination, Tainan!

Taiwan Trip - Part 1

2011-12-26T13:44:00.031+08:00

Finally! Finally! Finally!
My long-awaited trip to my long-time dream country Taiwan!
Out of all the overseas trips I had, this is one of the best!

The weather is nice and comfortable!
… though can be cold at times but still nice feel
The Taiwanese are super friendly!
… always heard others said, after I encountered them, I agreed totally!
The food are simply delicious!
… food/drinks that I don’t take here, I had and even a lot in Taiwan! =p
(like corn, milk tea, soya drink, winter melon tea)

A trip where I went to my dream country…
A trip where I fulfilled my desire to a place I long wanted to go…
A trip where I rest and relax, eat and eat and and eat and eat… Oops!
Most of all, a trip where I met and caught up with friends…

Friend HL and I been wanting to go Taiwan since last Dec but as we planned too late, it didn’t come to pass. Thankfully we did this year and even with Friend HM who already had the plan to go with her family.

It was an interesting experience selecting the airline and checking prices for air tickets. We were told by many to quickly get the air tickets before the price shoot up, we soon settled with the airline which we actually don’t quite like but it was the cheapest.
ONE WEEK later, Friend HL saw the another better airline actually offers a lower rate (with transit which we don't mind).
Ouch! Haha! What an experience!

While Friend HL and Friend HM looked into the air tickets, I was discussing/coordinating with friends in Taiwan about the route, hotel and plan etc. I really thank God for them!
Because of them, I don’t have to spend time looking hotel by hotel but rather I was given not one or two but many choices to choose from. That’s not all, they even helped with the reservation.

Not forgetting thoughtful them who gave me live “coldness forecast” days before so to ensure that we be prepared.

Prior before the trip, together with Team Leader, also spent time and $$ preparing Christmas presents for the different ones in Taiwan.
I felt like a “Santa Claus” when I was packing my luggage and trying to squeeze all the presents into a backpack.

Usually for overseas trip, I will just bring panadol and plasters.
But this time, for the first time I actually bought Vitamin C. Haha!
Was told by a wonderful friend to be equipped in medicine (eno for digestion, vit C to strengthen immune system for the change of weather etc). So obediently went to get it and of course obediently took it in Taiwan.

Not forgetting the long and funny "Pokka Peach Tea story" days and even hour before our flight. Haha!

to be continued…

25 December

2011-12-25T14:17:00.002+08:00

Merry Christmas to all lyn-peace blog's faithful readers!

-_-

2011-12-24T23:48:00.018+08:00

WARNING!
(read at your own risk ... highly negative post)
You are strongly advised to give this a miss.

I almost fainted when I received my bill yesterday.

The roaming charges were high, literally high!
Before the trip, I was actually quite prepared to spend a bit for the roaming but I didn’t expect to be this much.

I guess other than some important calls I need to make within Taiwan, most of the charges came from the calls to/from Singapore which due to contacting of students.

To think that others would feel that I actually don't care about my responsibilities when I'm away. How I wish I could...
I still made/answered calls to/from parents and students but of course also depending the urgency. Even over weekend where I can well just off my phone, I didn’t. Even prior before the big day, I personally called up the backsliders.

Other than blogging, I can only swallow secretly.
Just dislike that at the end of the day I’m being treated like a “sinner” for missing big day (though I was not the only one). Maybe things would be different if I am not a xxx or in xxx.

Not just before the trip, till now is still a “shooting” point for many, still kana one today (even days after the trip) - sound like I purposely want to run away from big day. Haiz.
Anyway I guess there will never be a full-stop to this. It is going to be permanent mark and “shooting” point for many years.

-_-

Team8 Bdae 2011 - Part C

2011-12-09T08:48:00.012+08:00

After SOT…
First up, Teammate GR Mama's birthday!

Teammate EM did the coordinating with Teammate GR Mama and other teammates while I settle the card.
Simple and short but definitely a lovely celebration.
Eventhough due to some last minute changes, only Teammate EM and myself were present but we know that Teammate GR Mama felt loved and blessed by ALL of us.

On the same day, we made the first overseas we made to our overseas teammate. It was Teammate ZR’s birthday so we called to sing her birthday song. And of course to catch up with her life At the end of the call, Teammate EM and I concluded … we miss her!

Soon after was Teammate HH's (China) birthday!
For this I got to really salute my Team Leader! I was still thinking probably meet over weekend to call and sing her belated song since her actual day falls on a weekday but Team Leader actually free up the night and we met up specially just to make the call.

Final one for the year, Teammate ME!

After one-woman-show of coordination and planning by Team Leader, we met up to celebrate for Teammate ME @ Timbre!

Double happiness where we celebrate Teammate ME's birthday and Teammate GR's graduation!

Nice place! Nice “live” band! Nice food! Nice music! Nice atmosphere! Great company!

- the end -

Team8 Bdae 2011 - Part B

2011-12-08T19:01:00.009+08:00

Our Ah Boy’s 21st birthday!!!
We were invited to his birthday party...

Not forgetting to celebrate for him on his actual day in school…

Next up, yours truly’s 22nd birthday! Hee!
Team Leader went through all “obstacles” and got me a DURIAN cake!
Can you imagine the celebration was at B4! Opps! Haha!

Love them to the max!

Last but not least, the last birthday we had during SOT days.
The birthday that touched many of our hearts… Teammate XB's!

A video pre-recorded by his hubby brought joy of tears in her eyes..

to be continued continued...

Team8 Bdae 2011 - Part A

2011-12-08T09:21:00.030+08:00

Team Leader once commented..
“Birthday used to be just another day for me, but after I came to CHC, I realized that celebrating birthday can be special & meaningful, a chance to show your love and appreciation and it’s always the thoughts that counts”.

In Team8, we never give anyone half-hearted celebration. We took extra love, extra effort and time to prepare and celebrate for all.

Whether is it during SOT or even after SOT…
Whether is it locally or overseas…
Whether is it meetup or over the phone…

During SOT days…
The very first birthday we celebrated as a team... Teammate YG!

Our very first group photo?
Check out those who-is-that-standing-beside-me expression on all our face! Haha! Then we were still consider hi-bye teammates. =p

Next up, the “mei mei” in our team… Teammate ML!

Our first complete Team8 photo!

Wow! Teammate ST & Teammate LW’s birthday falls on the same day!
Teammate LW's bdae card was done by me ... been a looooong time since I last did one. Glad that she likes it.

Next up, our Team Leader, Teammate EM’s birthday!
Team Leader! So of course her celebration got to be grand!

More than one celebration!
From dinner to actual day celebration..
More than one present!
From home-cooked to handmade..

Up next, our sweetest Teammate GL’s birthday!

ps: Oh man! My heart is growing “weak” just by looking at the group photos… I miss them!!!

to be continued...

... but ...

2011-12-07T09:36:00.013+08:00

Finally school holiday has really started…

After 2weeks 2days of preparation for next year, I can only conclude one thing … 2012 gonna be a busy academic year!

Next year, our school will be gearing up for official accreditation in Feb.
Not forgetting new projectsss that will be introduced from the start.

After a year of break - break from teaching, break from marking, break from home visitation, break from communicating with parents etc … I gotta really get myself ready physically, mentally and emotionally for next year!

When our school gets busy, our school really gets busy.
That’s why always have mixed feelings before school starts… more so in this kindergarten.

happy to join back this school BUT “tremble” at the scary work load…
excited to be back to class BUT afraid am “rusty” to teach…
looks forward to be form teacher again BUT worried about the commitment…
all ready for the new school year BUT don’t want busyness to start…

2010 for Miss Lim…
First & Second term - “drowned”, really drowned drowned drowned
Third term - swam drowned drowned drowned swam
Fourth term - swam swam drowned swam swam
Haha!

A year where I got culture shock BIG time..
A year where I wanted to “throw in the towel” more than once…
A year where I said “I want to quit!” almost everyday.
A year where despite so many years in this field, I trembled at almost everything and anything.
A year where I had many “first-time”, even to break down in the presence of principal.
(Unbelievable for this! I find it funny to think about it now! Haha!)

2011 for Miss Lim…
Unique! Was only around first and fourth term.
From Assistant Teacher to everything-also-do-teacher to “admin clerk”.
From SOP to Environmental Awareness.

A year where I was “tested” in many areas.
A year where my relationship with the colleagues strengthen.
A year where I get to try out new things.
A year where I’m given responsibility and trust.
A year where I get to share the Word to my colleagues.

2012 gonna be interesting…
Shouldn’t “drown” so much I guess?
It will be my 3rd year with the school but 2nd year as a Form Teacher.
I suppose (prayfully) 2012 will be better for Miss Lim who is more familiar and confident with the school’s culture, DNA, curriculum, environment, colleagues, people, style etc.

For now… Miss Lim is gonna put aside ALL school agendas and enjoy the remainder weeks of holiday!

peek a peek

2011-12-07T09:01:00.014+08:00

A little peek to the working weeks during our holiday...

BIG time spring-cleaning! Like a workout for me!
But sense of satisfaction was great as I get to clean, wipe, clean off the super duper dusty areas and throw, throw, throw and throw some of the stuffs which been there for donkey years.

Check out Z Laoshi and my working tables. But no matter how packed the tables are, there will always be space for.. .. .. Food! Haha!

Found stackssssss of old worksheets (more than what shown in this pic) so had to spend time shredding and tearing them…

Some of the boards… the emptiness will be filled by the children’s masterpieces when school reopens.

Find the "colourful" small/big baskets quite messy so decided to do something about it. (top pic is before and bottom is after)
Thats not all... will still need to purchase more.
Though is own pocket money but guess since going to be in the class for a year, why not spend the money to make it looks pleasant to the eyes. Haha!

Very generous lunch treats from parents to appreciate and affirm the teachers.

First day we were back...

Last day we were back...

?????

2011-12-04T03:25:00.014+08:00

Is it really a mistake?
Is it really a no-no?
Shouldn’t make that decision?

But why?!?!?!?

What seem to be “rest” turns out to be “sin”…
What others can enjoy freely, I got to do it “secretly” and with "fingersss-pointing”.

But why?!?!?!?!

Really don’t understand why… Guess will never understand…
Just dislike the fact that "I have to"...

10hours

2011-11-30T22:22:00.012+08:00

Spent a solid 10hours on the third day of the second week of “Back to School” today.

So far…
- house keepings
- attended Kindergarten Learning Forum
- checked/refilled learning corners
- cleared/packed term resources
- class furniture checking/shifting

- attended National Geo/Endo intro talk
- sat in meetingssssss
- reviewed and went through lesson plans for Phonics, Grammar, Math, Moral, Theme, Environmental Awareness, Art & Craft
- printed worksheet, activity sheet, letters for 4 classes
(for ~100 children)
- settled form classes’ stuff like name list, visitation list, observation list, name tags, birthday tags, inventory list etc
- typed/printed/sorted teaching resourcessssss

To be done in the next remainder days…
- “house” moving
- class boardsss
- fill up stationery
- set up classroom
- grouping/partnering for form classes
- do up Art & Craft samples

I was just thinking to myself otw back home from school…

Same Dec holiday. Same school period.
Same teaching level. Same working-together colleagues.
Different Miss Lim.

The “Miss Lim” two years ago when first joined the school was blur, quiet, closed-up, talk/smile-to-no-one and had a “Pls refrain from talking to me!” written on face when colleagues approached.

But the “Miss Lim” today is noisy, sharper (I think so?), super opened-up (haha!) and talk/smile-to-everyone and of course “Pls come and talk to me!” written on face when colleagues come near. =p

Personally I feel it is important to be comfortable with the work environment we are in…
It is also important to be comfortable with the people we work with…

With this, I can’t help but to thank God for not just giving me a great (but busy) school, a super two-thumbs-up principal and of course loving colleagues!

Though I am not the youngest among the staff but I am (very) well-loved and pampered.
Especially by my mentor, my Chinese teacher, my Level Head, my principal and Mrs HL.

Really thank God for the favor with man!

End

2011-11-18T23:06:00.009+08:00

2011 school year has ended!
This year been pretty special… I was around for the beginning and end.

Ever since I started in this field, I never taken a “break” from teaching so Term1 was not really used to it when I was helping out at PreNursery and Nursery, more to like TA so no teaching.

Was then away for SOT for two terms.
During the two terms, was in contact with my principal and few close colleagues. Though I miss the little ones but due to “time difference”, wasn’t able to drop by.

Upon the completion of SOT, I went back after the agreement with principal that I will continue with them. Glad to know she welcomed me with opened arms.

Unlike Term1, Term4 seem to be “over-staff” thus with that I was not required to help out PreNursery or Nursery. But instead I was taken out to be in Task Force (first was alone, later part another two colleagues join in).

Really thank God for the stillness.
I have NEVER enjoy desk-bound job, I need to move/talk. Haha!

As principal didn’t want us to be disturbed thus we were not in the main office but to Level2 where there were no one else but just us.
In the beginning, I was alone, one and only in the office.
Already “challenging” for me to sit still and now no one for me to talk to. Haha! Can only self-entertain myself with music.

One term. Ten weeks.
I thank God for the fruitfulness!

All in all, I completed SOP for the entire school.
Lesson plans on “Environmental Awareness” for two levels for the whole of 2012.

I thank God for the wisdom too!
SOP had been something new to me but I thank God I managed to complete for the entire school.

It been “decades” since I last write lesson plans so to ask me to start and on a “new” subject, that’s definitely not easy and some more with the pressure that it is going to be for the whole year.

One conclusion at the end of the day… Miss Lim is never suitable for “office job”! Haha!

Looking forward to school year 2012 where Miss Lim will be back in the classroom TEACHING!
Next year gonna be busy and challenging as the school will be going through QRS.

Got to get myself ready for the commitment again!
Beside the daily teaching... the visitation, the markings, the callings, the observations etc etc etc.

Changed

2011-11-13T22:39:00.004+08:00

Being in Early Childhood field for quite some years.

Started with PCF Kindergarten then to Cxxxxx Kindergarten which was later converted to HxxxxTxxx Childcare.
Now I am with Lxx Kindergarten.

3 different kindergartens… 3 different cultures…
3 different styles of concerts…

I must say that it is in current kindergarten where my perspectives and attitude toward the concert, the children @ concert, the rehearsal etc changed.

Tour Guide

2011-11-11T22:57:00.008+08:00

Back to SOT moments…

I was like the “tour guide” when Teammate YG’s family and YG’s boyfriend and pastors came during the graduation week.

* On the last day of SOT…
Together with Teammate EM & Teammate HM & Teammate JI, we brought Teammate YG and family & Teammate JL and boyfriend to Sentosa.

We actually wanted to go USS but due to the sudden heavy rain, we decided not to waste the tickets.
So instead they had a tour in casino while the rest of us who didn’t have our passport with us stayed outside and chatted.
We also walked around and took lots of photos.

After which, we brought them to Chinatown for a wide spread of local food. It was a blessing from us… the local students.

Though spent quite a lot, for dinner and earlier late lunch but all was worth it. Glad that they enjoyed themselves despite a long tiring day.

* On the first night of graduation...
I brought Teammate YG and family & Teammate JL and boyfriend and pastors to Makansutra for dinner before a walk along the river and a short laser show @ MBS.

Though had to “sacrifice” having celebration dinner but all was worth it.
Glad that they loved the views and show.

* On one of the days during “Emotional Week”, I brought Teammate YG and family to Clarke Quay for pork rib soup lunch then walked them around.

Though I was tired (both physically and emotionally) but I thank God I had the time to fellowship with them.
Glad they enjoyed the food, the views and the company.

* On the day of their flight...
As Teammate YG’s flight was earlier than her family, Teammate EM and I “took care” of her family, brought them for lunch, showed them around, assisted their check-in before sending them off.

What’s the final conclusion after a week of being a “Tour Guide”?
I need to read up more about the history/current facts of Singapore. Hahaha!

Not wanting any reward but rather just doing what I can.
Since I'm more "free" and being good friend with Teammate YG and Teammate JL, thought that was the least I can do for them.

Glad to be able to be a blessing to them all.
Definitely more blessed to give than to receive!

Plug-In

2011-11-08T22:26:00.008+08:00

The theme for this year Graduation cum Concert - Plug In

This year was different for me.
As I am “class-less” thus didn’t go through the full responsibility and busyness before, during and after concert.

Every year @ concert, the busier group will be the K2 Graduands.
They have more than one item. They have limited time to change.

As I had a year of experience of being with the K2 on concert, I was assigned to help one of the classes.

Though it was busy - seldom a moment to rest but it was fun.
They were involved for Graduation ceremony, Graduation items, Grand entrance, Concert item, Special items and Grand Finale.

Both nights of concert ended sweetly when I get to see many of my ex-students but only managed to take pic with three.

All in all, I’m glad and proud to be a part of “Plug In 2011”.

"Emotional" Week #4

2011-11-07T19:52:00.014+08:00

Fri 26/8
Teammate YG and Teammate SM
The fourth and last day at the airport.

Was at the airport in the early afternoon.
This time was to send off the second last teammate, Teammate YG.

Team8’s representatives this time just my Team Leader and I.

@ the departure entrance, we almost had a heart-attack when Teammate YG couldn’t find her Student Pass. We were like “history repeating?!?!” But thank God it didn’t.

Goodbye my teammate, my friend and my study-kakis!
Goodbye Teammate YG! Gonna miss you too!

After we bid goodbye to her, Team Leader and I accompanied Teammate YG’s family whose flight was later in the late evening. We brought them around T3, a little shop, lunch before we helped them with check-in and then sent them off.

After that, we met up Teammate ME and Teammate LE to say goodbye to Teammate SM.
As that day we need to rush back to JW for meeting, we didn’t manage to see him off. But anyway Teammate SM had many people who came to send him.

Goodbye my teammate and my friend!
Goodbye my best mission-partner!

"Emotional" Week #3

2011-11-04T23:27:00.002+08:00

Thurs 25/8
Teammate ZR

We met the night before to give her a farewell dinner. Majority of the local students turned up. It was a simple but heartwarming dinner.

@ the airport, few representatives from Team8 came to send her off. Her cg leader and members were there too.

Actually on our way to the departure entrance, though Teammate ZR didn’t show/say much but could already feel her emotion.

Hugs - that’s a must!

For us in Team8 - though by now, we should be “experts” in sending teammates off but whenever we reached “the moment”, we still have wobbly legs and “weak hearts”. Haha!

Though you could see little watery eyes but she was still smiling after the hugs from us.

But the “killing heart” came when one of her cg members hugged and whispered few words to her.

She cried.
The rest of us almost too but we held back.

Goodbye the first close friend I made in Team8!
Really gonna miss you, my buddy and my friend!

"Emotional" Week #2

2011-11-03T10:59:00.017+08:00

Tues 23/8
Teammate JI and Teammate JL

Had a “dramatic time” the night before. Teammate JL only realized the night before her flight that her student pass which need to be given to the immigration officer at the airport had been brought back accidentally to Taiwan by her boyfriend.

Helped her contacted one of the SOT staff who was shocked to hear about it cause it was the first-of-its-kind in SOT, as in to “lose” the student pass the night before flight. We made arrangement to go down Suntec office to get an official letter from her, just in case her student pass don’t reach her on time.

Apparently Teammate JL managed to get hold of her boyfriend who happened to just touch down at Taoyuan Airport so he actually managed to get it mail back to Singapore by FedEx Express which by right Teammate JL will get it on the morning. Thank God Teammate JL’s flight is at night.

Tues morning, both of us left to airport to send Teammate JI off.
Thinking that after sending her off, we either can make our way to FedEx HQ or Suntec office.

Quite many teammates came to send Teammate JI off. Teammate JI didn’t cry, we too but you could see on everyone’s expression that we were just you know you know.

At the entrance of departure, Team Leader commented “this kind you cannot come to send alone”. How true is that.

Goodbye our Assistant Team Leader!
Goodbye my awesome teammate!
Goodbye my friend who I can freely talk and share about everything!

A day later, heard from Team Leader that Teammate JI confessed that she cried when she went in. Awwwww… among all the ladies in Team8, Teammate JI is actually one of the “strongest” so to know that she actually cried, it bought tears to us too.

The “drama-rama” battle between FedEx and us began.

We called FedEx to check the status for the parcel and was told that the parcel has yet to reach Singapore. Teammate JL called her boyfriend who said that it shouldn’t. So we called again and another officer told us the same thing but this time was told that the parcel has yet to leave Taiwan. A while later, we went to the website of FedEx to check the status and we saw that it had already left Taiwan.

We made a call again and this time was told the parcel left Taiwan but yet to reach Singapore. We hanged around at the airport, prepared to go anywhere they mention to collect the parcel personally.

We went to the website and this time saw that the parcel has reached Singapore but that was not case when we called to ask. They said that same thing but promised us that they will indicate the urgency for us as I made known that we need the parcel urgently.

Think I had called so many times that the officers in FedEx already know me. For few calls, they were like “Ya… you are Miss Lim right?” After much battles, they informed us that hey will contact us regarding the final status before 2pm.

Prior before that, Teammate JL actually called her airline to “reserve” another day of flight, just in case something cropped up and she cant catch her original flight. We then decided to head back to my place first. We were all so tired that we knocked out when we hit the bed.

FINALLY! At close to 2pm, FedEx officer called to say the parcel reached Singapore and parcel at their HQ. So after making the necessary arrangement, Teammate JL took all her luggages and we left to the FedEx HQ and then to airport.

We cab to FedEx HQ which is somewhere near Expo. Thank God everything went smoothly and Teammate JL got hold of her Student Pass before we made our way to the airport.

It was so interesting - we saw three “Urgent” written on the envelope.

Guess this happened when you are so persistent and kept calling and calling and calling.

All in all, I think I made close to 8 calls (or more) to FedEx - sounded “angry” but of course in appreciating mode. No matter what, all worth it as long as Teammate JL wont miss her flight back.

@ airport, together with Teammate ZR who was with us the entire afternoon, went to have a peaceful proper meal.

The smiles on our face were genuine!
It was really a drama-rama afternoon!

From Team8, there were only Teammate ZR and myself who were there to send her off. Her cg leader and members came too.

The people outside getting fewer and fewer...

Goodbye my buddy, my study-partner and my source of entertainment in SOT! Gonna miss you!

"Emotional" Week #1

2011-11-01T21:50:00.016+08:00

The week after SOT graduation, I was at the airport 4days in a week.
One of the days was there twice.

This what happened when half of your team is international students.
I think that was the week I dislike the airport most. Haha!

Is still not so bad when you have to send off one or two but when you have to send off 9, terrible feeling and emotionally draining!

Mon 22/8
Teammate ME, Teammate HH & Teammate XB

It was a morning flight for Teammate ME.
Whenever I think about her now, I feel very bad.

Right from the start, I purposed that no matter what, I have to send her off. Unlike other teammates who I can be in contact whether via facebook/whatsapp, I know I wont be able to with her easily.
Also being the youngest in the team, she is like a “little sister” and she was very much “dependent” on me during SOT days.

Sad to say - I didn’t managed to send her off! The reason - I overslept!
Seriously speaking, I seldom oversleep so that day I must be really tired. Probably due to the busy weekend and the super late night the night before.

I woke up in shock when she called me that morning.
For once, I was too “afraid” to pick up her call.
Much later then I knew she actually went in pretty late.
Miscommunication, I was told a much earlier time. If I know that, I would have rushed down by cab.
Trust me, I will, I really.

I felt even more bad when I saw her farewell photos @ the airport. But glad that she wasn't alone, my Team Leader and another two teammates were there to send her off.

That afternoon, left to the airport with Teammate JL who stayed at my place as they were only allowed to stay at their hostel till certain date.

Managed to grab something along the way. The favorite snack of Teammate XB and Teammate HH.

It was an afternoon flight for Teammate XB and Teammate HH.

Though not whole team went to send them but you could feel the love and warmth by just the few of us.

Time to bid farewell to the two humorous and wonderful teammates cum powerful preachers!

It had never been easy for those outside either...
We gonna miss you two!