Wednesday, October 25, 2006

"Balik Kampung"

Yeehh... I was so looking forward to "balik kampung" with my mom. Well, it's more like my mom's hometown not mine, its just that half of my relatives are there. It's been 5 years since I last see them but of course, for the last 4 years, I had to fly into Changi Airport yearly on a transit trip and to my amazed, Singapore changed a very fair bit now. No wonder I was a little lost at some places Jaime mentioned in her blog. Those are indeed new places that was not there 5 years ago. Before I go, I even surf the net for more information on which new places I could visit while I'm there and had this To Do List:-

1. IKEA (5-10 minutes walk from my aunt's place)
2. Night Safari
3. A stroll in Chinatown
4. Eating in Lau Pa Sat
5. Sipping coffee at any Cafe by Clarke Quay while the day turns night


20th October (7.00pm)
Mom was interested to take the
KTM even though I was so much against that idea. Well, is always mom's priority to make decisions when travelling back to her hometown. And she wanted to try the bunk-bed on the "Senandung Malam". First time on this kind of service, so definitely has a few negative comments. No place to put luggage or shoe. I didn't dare to visit the toilet, so no comments. But, overall, the train is so old, I think they need some upgrade.


21st October (7.00am)
Reached Woodland custom check-point. Another rather silly arrangement. Need to take our luggages down and then, walked up the train again after all the custom procedures. Then, the train will take us to Tanjong Pagar. Have they not consider the old citizens?

Reached my mom's best friend's house at around 9am. We are putting up at her place in Bukit Purmei. She was reading her morning newspaper when we called her. In shocked to see us, she said, "Your daughter said you're coming in November!" and both my mom and I laughed. My sister had emailed her with wrong information! How silly!! After putting our luggages in the room and sat down for a while, we head down to have breakfast. Food is very convenient in Singapore and never worried we will be hungry at all times. When we get back, I took a short nap after looking thru tonnes of wedding photoes.

By 11am, we took a cab to
Vivo City which is currently the largest shopping Mall in Singapore. It will be officially open in 1st December. It used to be an Exhibition Hall next to Harbour Front where people board all Ferry & Cruise terminal. Now, its the place for people to shop endlessly & other activities coming up soon. We had lunch at Sakae Sushi; can't belief it that I just had it last Thursday in Subang Parade. Now, in Singapore.
My mom's best friend (Aunt Siok Kim) tried on a few attires at Celia Loe, this is the first time I heard of this Fashion Designer's name and Aunt Siok Kim has James as her personal Fashion Designer to assist her & having her hubby to approve of whether she could buy or not. And my mom and I sat waiting for her to try on as many clothes as she wants and gave her our honest opinions *chuckled* James kept asking me to try on some fantastic bright colour dresses which he thinks I will look marvellous in them. But, I think my wallet will have a big hole if I end up getting one of them. After almost an hour, Aunt Siok Kim got 4 dresses that cost her about $S450 after a voucher discount.

Aunt Siok Kim & Mom with Sentosa Island as background



Top: A snow-man looking out to the Harbour; Bottom: Kids water-playground

We took some photoes after lunch as they have veranda looking out to the Harbour & Sentosa Island from a distance. The haze was around so not good pictures can be taken. We headed back home around 6pm. Had a shower and relax for a while before heading out for dinner. Aunt Siok Kim & I spend the rest of the evening & night watching Korean series that she bought until we got sleepy.

22nd October (7.00am)
Unbelievable!! I had to wake up early because mom wanted to go Tiong Bahru market to have breakfast and purchase some things. This market was closed for a few years for upgrade renovation. Now, its buzzing with people and lots of food! Mom searching for her favourite food and I had to help to finish up. After breakfast, we head down to shop for clothes. Things are cheap and bargainable. I bought a few things here too. We head back to Aunt Siok Kim's place after mom happily got her shoes-purchase which she is very satisfied with the price and design. We proceed to sit in front of the big TV watching Korean series for hours and Uncle Collin cooked spaghetti for us and we also munch it in front of the TV. He is a good cook!! We simply glued to the series. And Mom was taking a nap or chit chatting with Uncle Collin. Around late-noon, we pack our things and took a cab to my 1st Aunt's place at Stirling Road where we put up for the rest of our visit.

Here, I was trying to get my cousin-nephew; Jia Lek to get familiar with me while I played remote cars with him. He is only 1 year plus. Very hard to get him to smile. But, he is a very good boy. He can sit at the sofa for hours quietly without even come down to walk and he is very afraid of dirty floors. He skipped his nap today since I was around. We had dinner with the whole family and the in-laws at one of the Teochew Restaurant. My 1st Aunt said, "Down memory-lane where your grandpa always used to bring you all out for good expensive meals when you come to Singapore to visit". Well, Singaporean has Food in their mind at all times. They live to eat while I eat to live.

Sadly, one of my mom's old-time favourite dessert gave me a very bad rash all over my arms and body since I ate it. And to top that up, the haze and hot weather kind of make me very uncomfortable if I don't get air-cond places. Anyway, Teochew meal is different from Hokkien meal to some extend. After a full tummy, we head back to shower & after watching the Line-dancing CD for a while, I went to sleep after the music makes my eyes tired
.

23rd October (7.30am)
Again, awake early because my cousin brother & his wife & my 1st Aunt had to go work. And when half of the household is awake, they are busy chit-chatting and its so impossible to sleep at that house!! Arrgghh... With the most grumpiest mood, I had to drag my feet up to brush teeth and prepare for breakfast and to the Bank to help my mom with some banking errands. Very delighted with my Wantan Char Siew Mee & a mug of coffee, I was wide awake after breakfast. I love the Char Siew so much!! We walked slowly to the the Bank which took us about 15 minutes. Then, we walked another 5 minutes to IKEA to wait for my 5th Uncle to pick us up where he is going to be our "chauffeur" for the rest of the day!! Hahaha.. so mean of me to describe him this way.

We need to go Hougang to visit my Grand-Uncle from my dad's side. Tagging along my 1st Uncle & 5th Uncle from mom's side. On our way there, 5th Uncle brought me to pass by Little India & Geylang Serai to see the colourful Deepavali and Hari Raya decorations all along these 2 streets. Mom is not interested to visit this kind of places so we did not get down from the car, just passed by. Or else, I'm sure I can try some Rendang & Roti Jala or even Roti Canai made in Singapore!

After a short visit to see my Grand Uncle & his wife, we head to the city to have lunch with my 1st Aunt at Tian Jin Restaurant. I have no idea what is so attractive about this place other than they serve original-China dishes which I think I had tried that quite a fair bit back when I was in PNG. After lunch, we head to Tanglin View to visit an ex-colleague of my mom. She was staying in a half a million private-condominium. To me, it feels like a 5-stars resort. How nice if she has more rooms and could accomodate my mom & myself. I would stay-in and just relax in the poolside reading a book. They had very nice landscape, even have tiny ponds and have artificial ducks floating in them!! Too bad, I didn't carry my digicam with me.

Aunty Chan brought us to Kiliney-Kopitiam for tea-breaks. I ordered Milo Ice since its a hot day & had kaya-bread to accompany our drinks. Well, basically its more like my uncles & mom chit chatting away and I'm just listening the whole day. After that, we head back to 1st Aunt's house to get my camera while my uncle had to get some cards to submit somethings at the Community Centre. Then, we picked my 1st Aunt from Ang Mo Kio MRT station as my 5th Uncle wants to bring me up to Mount Faber. It's my first time here but its mostly for couples on dates. He wanted to show me the whole Singapore city at night but due to the haze, nothing much can be of amazed at... Hahaha...

Then, we visited Jewel Box; its a sky-dining restaurant. Autumn is in the air. We went up to see the view and the gift shop. On our way to the restaurant, we stop by a very posh-restroom. My 1st Uncle said that he don't need to ease himself but when we told him how beautiful it was, he took a peep and told us that, he wants to sleep in it while we walk around. Hehehe... One China tourist lady asked me where is the toilet when she is already in it just she couldn't find the toilet-seat. So, I directed her right to the toilet-seat. Check out the pictures!


In the restroom just next to the 4-sinks with the glass wall overlooking the City-view

Mom & me at the Koi Pond in Jewel Box restaurant; very dark & romantic with only candles around.

Fr left to right : 5th Uncle, Mom, 1st Aunt & her hubby at the entrance of Jewel Box

After lingering around for a while, we descended and head to Alexander Village for dinner. Again, food is very blessing here. Mom ordered her favourite and I ordered a little as I was still full from the tea-break. Of course, we head back to shower and sleep for the day shortly after that...

24th October (7.45am)
Up early because we need to take a long trip to visit my grandma, for Singaporean, an hour train ride is consider long!! And since its first day of Raya, we want to avoid clashing with them. Mom and I walked about 10 minutes to the Queenstown MRT station for a ride to Boon Lay MRT station. I only came to reliase that its cheaper to get the
Ez-Link for bas & train fare when I was reading thru all the noticeboard and fare-chart when waiting for my mom while she goes to the restroom. And nowdays, its pretty silly when we purchase for the train fare, we had to put $S1 as deposit and when we leave, we need to go back to the machine to get back the $S1 and I can't use the same card to re-pay for a return ride. Or, is it I didn't read the instructions correctly?!

Upon reaching my grandma's place, my 4th uncle picked us up from the train station to teach us how to take the bas into his house. Then, we walked a distance for breakfast. And we settled down a few hours in my grandma's place and head to Jurong Point for lunch before we head back to my 1st Aunt's house. On our way back, we saw a lot of Malay families in their beautiful kebaya or kurung and to my surprised, one family are all dressed in the same colour!! I don't recall seeing this in Malaysian culture?!? Here, you see each family has a colour-code to represent themselves. And the kurung or kebaya they wear are all in the same design for the sisters and mother. And young married couples, will also dressed in same colour as their husband/wife. How unique! Are they afraid that they will be lost in the Chinese-Singaporean crowd? Hahaha...

Once we got back to my aunt's place, I took a short nap but can't take long because the chatting outside woke me up. So, I gave up in trying to get more beauty sleep instead I watched a movie together with my aunt and mom on tv. Then, we had dinner at Jurong with my 5th Uncle & his wife and 1st Aunt's family and 2nd Aunt & husband. Jia Lek was so happy tonight, he laughed a lot and I managed to take lots of cute pictures of him.




Dinner was okie and then, we visit my 2nd Aunt's house and my cousin brother who I played with when I was young each year could not remember who am I!! Shucks... how can that happened when I can remember him?! *sigh* Can't wait to get home to shower as my arms and body is starting to itch again due to the hot weather. Had a good sleep after I read few pages of my book.

Little Snaily on its way to eat... while I'm on my way back...


25th October (8.30am)
Time to pack my bag and prepare to go back Malaysia! But, my last mission had not accomplish after a tough debate with my cousin-brother last night. I'm heading to IKEA to get my bedsheet. Urrgghhh... Mom is so worried that it will take me ages to come back and kept making me go in time. In order to avoid the "buzzing-bee" nags from her, I accompany my aunt to take the MRT to work and I slowly walked to IKEA. It was only quarter to 10am when I reached there and I had to stand right at the entrance like a fool waiting for them to remove the red-tape. While I see some people happily sipping thru their morning coffee while reading newspaper at the IKEA Breakfast Cafe. I was the first customer who walked in on the dot when the clock strike 10am. Trying my very best not to let the staffs think that I'm adapting the "kiasuism" culture, I slowly walked to where I want while some are starring at me & some are busy segregrating the items into their correct place. Kind of a messy though at 10am...

Took me 5 minutes to walk back with the short-cut I learned & took a quick shower before I dressed up for Brunch. Said our good byes and catch the Cab to Tanjong Pagar KTM train station. We were very early because my dad gave a reminder call from Malaysia to make sure we must be there latest by 12.30pm when our train is scheduled for 1pm. The train-ride back to Malaysia was very rough and noisy and too many stops! *sob* Told my mom, I am never going to take the train again... No no no...

It doesn't seems like a vacation to me. Mostly visiting but at least, I get to meet my uncles and aunties. Just a little dissapointed that my younger cousins or their children can't remember me... And of course, my To Do List managed to accomplish 1 only!! I think I'll work on it the next trip there soon...

Monday, October 16, 2006

=Jake's Steak & BBQ=

Last night, we celebrated Kristen's birthday at Jake's Steak & BBQ. Situated at Jalan Setiapuspa. Sis wanted us to become the guinea-pigs as her family had not tried. And since her in-laws were just staying 5~10 minutes walk away and never tried it even when the restaurant has been there for lots of years.

While it drizzled, we took a stroll down to this Restaurant and with a not charming entrance and a laid-back Wild Wild West charm, we happily sit-down and savour the food... I think I ordered the most expensive meal compare to the rest of the family members.

My dinner: Lamb Ribs with Mushroom Sauce.
Comments: One of the piece was not well-cooked, kind of make me feel "eeriee". Carrots are kind of hard but I love the Sweet Corn & Baked Potatoes.

Dad's Dinner: Salmon Steak with Caviar & Butter.
Comments: I like the presentation best. I think it tasted okie but too healthy for dad! And he accompany it with beer... Hahaha...


Sis's Dinner : Steak Burger with French Frieds.
Comments : Huge Burger of Australian-serving size. Didn't hear any other comments from my sis but she didn't finish it all.

Most of them ordered normal Chicken with Mushroom Sauce as they all looked a-like my Lamb Ribs presentations. This restaurant has not much of attractive ideas to present their various food. A little pricey and the taste is just kind of normal. Unless, you wanted to have a Wild West ambience. Give it a try!

This is how they describe themselves on the website:-
"After a hot day in the saddle, it is time to mosey on down to Jake's for a juicy steak! The charming decor creatively embraces the Wild West, with old-style photographs of cowboys and paraphernalia such as horses' saddles. Wooden dining booths provide a finishing touch to your experience. The place tends to be crowded at night so it is best to book in advance. The steaks are generous in portion and the local's favourites include the succulent US Prime Rib with Mushroom Sauce and Choice US Rib Eye. Soft drinks, juices and alcoholic beverages are also served."

Sunday, October 15, 2006

Miracle

On a usual Saturday morning, I will get up around 9am or maybe even later. But yesterday, I was up early & I saw a little white note lying near to the gap of my room door. My brother dropped me a note that writes:

Faith,
May Ng met with an accident after sending you home last night. Her car was in total damaged. It was hit and run case. If you're planning to give her a call, please call after noon time. She only got home at 3.30am, so need rest.


So, my brother did called me in the noon when I was on the way to the car service to ask if I had called her. I was thinking... Did my brother blame me for the accident indirectly??

This morning, I saw May at church and a lot of us surrounded her and getting the updates and how the event goes, upon saying "Hi" to her, I said, "Sorry May to hear about the accident, trully sorry that you need to drop me off or else, that accident won't had happened." And immediately, she replied, "No lar... don't think that way!"


May's Testimonial : May's Miracle

But, I just kind of wonder... "WHY NOBODY SAID HOW LUCKY THAT I WAS NOT IN THE CAR??" Not a single one said that... not even my own brother... I'm not trying to get attention for myself... Sigh... Guessed, I just had to be thankful to God that its all His plan.

Saturday, October 14, 2006

Father & Daughter Day

Just happened that today, it became a Father & Daughter Day for my dad and I.

Supposed to have my first time experience to the Toyota Car Service Centre by myself but then, mom gave some nagging-remarks to dad that he should tag along. Initially, dad insisted me to make an appointment to service my car after the "3 months" due on a Saturday with the reason that I had to start learning how to be independent and go do my own car chores. Yes, other than washing & vacuum the car, I don't think I know much of the car other than driving it carefully. I was a little bit anxious on Friday & Saturday morning having the thought plastered to my brains that I'll be going "alone"...

As I was having my lunch at 1pm, dad asked me what time I want to leave and I told him. Was kinda curious why he asked which later, he said he is tagging along. So, he drove us to the Service Centre and we were stuck in an afternoon-traffic which is quite surprising on a Saturday. Upon entering the Receiption area, there are lots of people sitting around and the place is not too bad. Dad said its so much better than EON/Proton's Service Centre. I think the best thing that attracted my dad is the unlimited flow of coffee & biscuits *chuckled* Once, we get ourselves registered; which is a less than 5-minutes procedure. We waited for a while for the Advisor to call us to bring him to the car. Also, we didn't waited long.

But, once we handed the car-keys, it took us 3.5 hours to get the car back! The advisor told us that we only had to wait 2 hours. Dad met with an ex-colleague who has been waiting for his car since 12pm!! As we looked at the clock, its almost 4.30pm & I got a little worried. While we were waiting patiently at the lounge area which I didn't take any picture because it was full of Malay families with their kids. I was wondering and accidentally asked my dad, "Why do this people had to bring their wives and kids to a service centre?" And he replied with a laugh, "Becoming their family outing for a regular Saturday noon." Thank God, I don't see any mother breast-feeding their baby because there are few who are feeding their babies with milk-bottle. And the kids are running around like a playground! Maybe, next time, they had to consider to built one-real-playground for the kids. Hehehe...

As we can't tag along to see how they service the car, so I walked myself several times to the service bay. But, I didn't see my car anywhere. After my 3rd time walking to the service bay, I realised that they had different section allocated for different model of cars. The service bay can accomodate about 40-50 cars after the Advisor drives in. After the service, I think the mechanic drive around the compound for 2-3 rounds because later when I checked my meter-reading, its about 3 km. And of course, the place is kinda huge also. Before they hand-back the car to me, I saw the Advisor drove it to the Washing & Vacuum Bay. And here again, it went into the VIP/Express lane. I stood in the sun admiring how they wash the car which took them about 15 minutes and then, I went back to the Lounge to get myself refreshen up and chit chat with my dad by describing to him what I saw on my self-detour.

After about 30 minutes after I see them complete washing, I returned again to the Washing & Vacuum Bay. Saw my car parked at the side but still the Advisor didn't pick it up. So, I went back to the Receiption and asked the Advisor politely, "Can you check if my car is ready? Because I saw it parked at the side" and he went to check thru some drawers; probably looking for my car keys and returned back with a head-shake, "Sorry miss, they are still washing your car". And I asked, "Still? That's funny... Okie then." And I walked all the way round to the other side of the building where I saw they parked my car and I asked those people there who washing other people cars, "Boleh tanya, kereta ini sudah siap cuci?" and they replied, "Sudah!" and I saw another Advisor walking towards me and with a smile he asked, "Yes miss, can I help you?" and I replied, "Can you please let the other Advisor know that this car is ready because earlier on, he insisted that its still being washed." And the Advisor asked the cleaning team why nobody notify the other Advisor and they answered him back in Tamil. Hehehe.. no idea what they told him. So, this Advisor drove another car to return to the owner and then, I saw him talking to my Advisor when I re-enter to the Receiption. My Advisor panicked! He was calling out other colleagues and asking where the car-keys and a little "hu-ha" and it started to drizzle outside.

By the time the Advisor found the car-keys and got the car delivered, he was apologizing a few times and with a chuckled I told him, "It's raining, such a waste your workers wash the car so clean earlier." We didn't bother to ask him why we had to wait for the car so long because all the other car owners are all tired and anxiously waiting for their own car which don't get much VIP treatment as "My Little Camry" does. Lucky, I was obvserving the cleaning procedure to know that the car is ready or else, I'll probably waited another hour till the Advisor noticed something.

Next stop, out of curiosity, we went to the Toyota Showroom on our way back to view the New Camry that was launched this weekend. We actually, dropped by last weekend but it was not there yet. And I tell you, "Love At First Sight!". Dad also love the New Sportish Camry and we were kidding to the Salesman that we bought the current car from, "How much if we trade-in?" and he said the figure and dad said, "Aiyoh!! I'm going to lose Rm30k for 3 months old car??" Of course, trade-in value always very low. We lingered at the Showroom for about 30minutes and head home for dinner. Pictures below of a glimpse of the New Camry. Isn't it a beauty??

While having dinner, I was suggesting to mom that we should make "popiah" one of these weekends. And then, dad said, "Ahh... we make Kau Ting Ge tonight". And we didn't allow mom to participate and it's an Instant Kuih Lapis (Layer Kueh) recipe that my dad bought a few weeks ago. Dad was washing up the dinner dishes and I get all the things ready for him. The mixing was very simple but the steaming time when we put layer by layer every each 5 minutes were kind of tedious. Had to make sure the layer is well-steamed before the next layer being poured in.

My task is to pour the mixture every 5 minutes and my dad had to lift up the cover carefully and wipe it dry. By 10pm, its ready! After removing it from the steamer, dad actually sat admiring his Kueh. And mom asked him, "What are you doing starring at that Kueh?" and as the whole family were already at the kitchen that time. I laughed and nagged my mom, "Why you care what dad is doing?" and my dad added, "I admiring my Kueh lar, cannot ah?" We shall see how its gonna taste like tomorrow...

Thursday, October 12, 2006

Lazing By the Beach...

I was playing around with the INVironment of Yahoo Messenger while chatting with Stephane. Came across this amazingly-colourful gadget that we started with words and then, pictures. And of course, it gave me an idea... Hahaha... Our Masterpiece!! From someone who claimed that "He is not really good at drawing." So, I was amazed... and I miss the Beach!! Beach... Stephane is on the plane while I'm cruising on the boat... Beach... I'm coming soon!!

Saturday, October 07, 2006

Lettre: Laverie et doux

Thought that I would blog about something that do not need to involve too many clicks and links... And decided to share this with all of you... I was a member of Meetic since last December but then, I quit when the free-trial period ends. Just come across the website and decide to register for fun to make friends from all walks of life... and this will be a few lovely & sweet emails... That could melts any reader's heart (Not sure if you do but I did)...

~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~
Received: 15th April 2006

Hello,

Life without love is like a tree without blossoms or fruit. Inside the heart of each and every one of us there is a longing to be understood by someone who really cares. When a person is understood, he or she can put up with almost anything in the world. The heart is the place where we live our passions. It is frail and easily broken, but wonderfully resilient. There is no point in trying to deceive the heart. It depends upon our honesty for its survival.

From every human being there rises a light that reaches straight to heaven. And when two souls that are destined to be together find each other, their streams of light flow together, and a single brighter light goes forth from their united being. The moment you have in your heart this extraordinary thing called love and feel the depth, the delight, the ecstasy of it, you will discover that for you the world is transformed.

I am sending you this mail with deep faith in God which I know will reach you in a total excellent health condition. My name is Philips Maxwell. I am 34 years old single man. We all know what constitutes loving behavior; we need but act upon it, not continually question it. Over-analysis often confuses the issue and in the end brings us no closer to insight. We sometimes become too busy classifying, separating, and examining, to remember that love is easy. Love cannot endure indifference. It needs to be wanted. Like a lamp, it needs to be fed out of the oil of another's heart, or its flame burns low. It's we who make it complicated however, I have all it takes in making out my living, am working and what I am getting monthly is keeping me fine however, I am yet to find my lost rib to fill the blank space in my life, we all need someone to share our sorrowfull and joyfull moment with , someone who will be there at the moment of trial, at the moment of pain and leisure activities. However being deeply loved by someone gives you strength; loving someone deeply gives you courage. Really, love is the master key that opens the gates of happiness. As I look forward to have you as my dream woman. If you really want to know more about my biography and family, you can reply me through this email XXX. The supreme happiness in life is the conviction that we are loved.

Thank you
Philips

~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~
Sent: 16th April 2006
Subject: Greetings from Malaysia

Hi Philips,

Greetings from Malaysia.

Thank you for taking your time to write such a lovely email to me via Meetic. Love is undefine and love goes a distance. It's beauty endures forever in our hearts. I'm one simple lady with not much words so, its gonna be a short email from me till I hear from you again.

Take Care & Happy Easter!

Cheers,
Faith

~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~
Received: 16th April 2006
Subject: Thanks for The Reply

Hello,
I just have to thank you for replying my mail, if not for other things but for the efforts you made to type the mail. Like I have earlier informed you in my previous mail, I've turned to the Internet to look for a partner, because I haven’t yet met someone who has really fulfilled my expectations. I’m not searching for adventures or games, on the contrary, I hope to find that special person in you, and someone with whom I can create the family I’ve always wanted and spend the rest of my life with.

Therefore, I sincerely look forward to becoming a proof that this type of meeting possibility really works and changes people’s lives... Well, I grew up and did all my schooling in the US. As regards my family, we are just three in number, I am the first child and the only son, RICHEAL is the second, she by profession a nurse, while LUCIAL is the last but still in School studying architecture. My father Dr. Nobleman LOUIS MAXWELL and my mother Mrs SOHIA MAXWELL are both retired from the US civil services. As for my job, I have great regards for my job and give to it all the necessary attentions. I am working with Global Employment and Literacy Coalition (GEALC) here in the US Judging from your mail, you look cute and charming, I’m sure you’ve received many responses and proposals, but please believe me that it’s not my intention to just flatter you, by telling you that you’ve impressed me! Nevertheless “I enjoy spoiling and pampering my partner… I believe in God; I feel that family is the most important support in life; I know true love exists; I immensely value friendship; I hate conflict; I’m sincere and detest hypocrisy; I’m open minded; I respect other’s ideas and listen to them (so I expect to be listened to, because I wait for my turn to speak); I’m witty and have a great sense of humour; I think our destiny is something we discover every day, according to how we face it, what we do and what we don’t and I doubt there’s a second chance for a first good impression.

Appealing, cerebral and of average size, my best qualities are loyalty, passion and creativity. I am a man of great integrity, my quiet serene demeanor accords me an air of mystery and diffidence as I go my way as a serene, wise observer of human society. I have a penchant for remaining above the fray and for maintaining my individuality. I am always well groomed and my eyes are framed by handsome eyeglasses. I can be best described as optimistic, high spirited and broadminded. I love romance, freedom and I am very much future oriented. I am a physical person. I respond to the world through action, rather than practicality, intellect, or emotion. While I am about action and getting things started, I am not in a hurry. I want to experience life, rather than read about it. I am an eager explorer and interested in mental outreach. I enjoy travelling and spiritual study, and have a daring and adventurous spirit. I am high-spirited and enthusiastic, often flirtatious, and enjoy social life immensely. In my leisure time, athleticism comes to the forefront but for now this hobby is already slipping away from my hands. Personal challenge is always appreciated, and I prefer solitary or one-on-one sports that stretch myself to the limit. My philosophical side makes me enjoy drama and debate, as well as most other mentally challenging pursuits. In love relationships, I am sincere, straightforward, flirtatious and playful. I can also be one cool customer. Although few would describe me as being warm, cuddly, or sentimental, those close to me see me as an important source of support in their lives. That's because when things are chaotic or falling apart, I'm the type of person who can be virtually unflappable. I am also known for being a talented problem solver. When it comes to my relationships, I usually know how to speak up for myself so that others know what I want. But that doesn't mean I'm rigid or flexible. In fact, I'm quite willing to acquiesce for the right person. They just need to make their case honestly.

MY KIND OF WOMAN
The type of woman who attracts me is honest, direct, and reliable - who can be my "pal". I like a woman who's playful one minute, and philosophical the next. Above all, companionship, honesty, and idealism appeal to me - and a sense of humour! My ideal partner is a very passionate person who knows how to fully enjoy life. He has a highly active imagination when it comes to trying new things. More than most people, he knows how to value the pleasures of romance and is not afraid to pursue those feelings when the timing is right. She also has a strong intellect, with a penetrating thought process and a continual curiosity about the world around her.

ANOTHER SIDE OF ME
Born into this world, but not of this world. I paints romantic portraits with words. Strong, but sensitive. Healthy, beautiful body. Warm soft voice with curious accent. NOT into the abuse of anyone or anything. Wise as a sage, with heart of a child. Love and forgiveness a way of life. Bohemian. Social transcendant. Spiritual drummer. Faithful friend. Very romantic sweet lover. I would like to meet a woman that believes in the power of love and forgiveness. Wants to transcend beyond the worldly norm and discover new vistas of companionship, sharing, peace, and joy. Someone who is very romantic and believes in angels Surely, no one lives to himself or herself and what ever we can do today for one another may stand for our glory tomorrow. Love feels no burden,thinks nothing of trouble,attempts what is above its strength, pleads no excuse of impossibility...It is therefore able to undertake all things, and it completes many things,and warrants them to take effect,where she who does not love would faint and lie down.Love is watchful and sleeping, slumbereth not. Though weary, it is not tired;though pressed, it is not straitened;though alarmed, it is not confounded... Friends are God's way of taking care of us.There is only one happiness in life,to love and be loved.Marriage is not a ritual or an end.It is a long, intricate,intimate dance together and nothing matters morethan your own sense of balance and your choice of partner.Do send me your personal photographs I will also send my to you as soon as you send yours to me. While waiting for your photographs by e-mail, I remain Yours Truly in Love; Philips

~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~
Sent: 23rd April 2006

Hi Philips,

First, pardon me for such a late reply. Yet, another beautilful email that I ever received. Anyhow, I have been busy for the whole week and its already 10pm here on a Sunday evening. I brought back some work from office and working on it a while ago. Not sure whether you're interested to know what had my week been. It has been pretty exhausted one... Not sure if you would like to listen to my eventful week.

I'm not good in telling about myself like you did. Usually, I can go on and on if people throw me questions. But, seems your emails are about yourself. Guess, its my turn to ask you instead. I don't seeyou much in any chat which I hope you could so atleast, we can have chat online and not just emailing. Looking forward to that.

Reading your 2 emails, I got to first say that I don't speak good English and if I do by any chance has use any wrong grammer, please correct me. *smile* What do you actually do in Global Employment and Literacy Coalition (GEALC)? [Sounds like Political or Law to me]

Well, I don't think one who trying to just flatter me or impress me will bother to take his time to write such a long email. So, I could say that, I can see you put a lot of effort in this. For your information, I have recieved a few proposals but then, they are just "talk" only as we chat online most of the time. And of course, I have met some nice ones online which so far only one still keep in touch everytime we see each other online. And some crazy one I meet tonight. I have been on Meetic for like a while and tonight, I met 2 crazy one on the same night. I can't belief it!! So, I'm just a simple Asian girl with no beauty and charm to be exact. Not sure if you have read about my personality in Meetic but let me just put them down in words here. Think you know I'm a Malaysian. I'm doing Shipping & Logistic as my proffesion. I'm graduate with Business Administration (major in Human Resource). But, found out that Human Resource is not as challenging as Shipping & Logistic. Maybe, I don't like to deal with human as much as "situations". I'm not sure that I'm the type of woman you looking for but I shall let you judge yourself. Just pretty curious that why you decide to come to internet to search for your love partner. Won't it be more critical? Or is it that inreality, its too much choice? Or, you're just onechoosy man? Well, maybe at times, when you put thingsat a different point of view, things might be different. You requested me for picture? Think you can see one of me in Meetic.

Okie, I got to keyboard off because my eyes are gonna drop... I shall try to write more often if you don't online to chat. But the next 2 days, I shall be very busy at office because I'm taking a week off from work for a short vacation. Till I hear from you, take good care of yourself.

Hugs,
Faith

~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~
Received : 23rd April 2006
Subject : Give The Love A Chance

Hello dear,
Global Employment and Literacy Coalition, is one of the leaders in professional employment recruiting and scholarship consultant, is comprised of executive consultants who have built a reputation of excellence around the globe. GEALC executive recruiters have been successfully providing human capital placements in multiple markets and industries for over a decade. We have staff who have devoted their lives to a study of the fundamentals of human behavior and personal motivation that affect professional performance.

Give love and unconditional acceptance to those you encounter, and notice what happens. Love has its own time, its own season, and its own reasons from coming and going. You cannot bribe it or coerce it or reason it into staying. You can only embrace it when it arrives and give it away when it comes to you. Love is eternal -- the aspect may change, but not the essence. There is the same difference in a person before and after he is in love as there is in an unlighted lamp and one that is burning. the lamp was there and was a good lamp, but now it is shedding light too, and that is its real function. And love makes one calmer about many things, and that way, one is more fit for one's work, honey, I will love to have your pics in your next mail , I love you dear...
Bye love,
PHILIPS

~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~
Sent : 24th April 2006

Hello Philips,
How are you? And how's work? Yes, I can always givelove a chance. I'm pretty tired today after 8 hours ofwork. Thought, I just check my personal email andreply you while I can. I'm going to work extra timetoday because I'll be taking a week off from work. So,how often you check your email? Would you want to beonline MSN Messenger to talk to me while I'm atoffice?
Between, thanks for replying me about GEALC. So, you can recruit me? *chuckled* Where are you staying now? In United States? Which part? Hey, you got to re-send me your picture too. Off hand, I don't have any picture of me in the office PC. Besides, like I told you in my last email, I got mypicture in Meetic... So, just remember that in your heart. :) Love is not measureable by "looks", right? Ok, got to go back to work.. Till later, take goodcare!
Cheers,
Faith

~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~
Received : 25th April 2006
Subject : We Have Found Each Other
Hello dear,
Its really amazing that this thing could ever happen to us, and I appreciated the fact that time and space is not a hindrance to two people who's longing to find someone's special in some romantic and odd way...there are some or one particular person that could make you think fast or give you wisdom to express very easy about what you wanna say or what you want to let the other side feel whats inside you.. because, before, have difficulties to start up or tell about something about me, even to create a sentence and a story... but I was really surprised how did you made me write you so easy that I dont have to think very slow and gather some information from my mind.. actually.. you are the one who can make me write an email so very long and I hope I am not boring you and wasting your time during reading.... there was this thing that I cant recognized, why I have to feel this way and I feel so embarrased to my self why I am doing this.. I never believe of on the spot comfortability to a person because I never look straight to their eyes, as I am afraid to see something that will make me hook or disappoint my own self..

Maybe a purpose will lead to something better, I am nailed to my chair creating this lines between you and me, and I will not regret a thing, because I let my self out through you.. I've been learning my lessons since then, and I think I am a better person everytime I fall, I pick up my self and go on, move on and face the world with my head up high.. made me stronger, and alert, value myself, when I forget that I should have had care for me.

I never closed my heart to the possibilities that I could find someone for me, what I did was, I rest and focus my attention to my family, and mostly to my self, I know that my solidarity didnt mean I'm lonely, have more time to know my self, as I understand other people..

Yes, sometimes I encountered so many trials in life, horrible as you say... I know was to be gentle, patient, loving and not giving up to these matter that we called life.. I never regret all the decisions I've made in my past, or else, I would never ever come to see you here...its a link to all the purpose and from the start to the end...we have to persevere the goals that we planned to make it happen...if there's a will there is always a way to make it come true, but sometimes negative comes to our way, we cannot get all the things that we wish in our life, we have to let it go and accept the fact that it is not ours to hold.

Everything happens indeed to our lives with a reason, but we use the chances to get it right, feel lucky when its in your hands and wasted when you fail.. and all we have to do is wait for our turn to come, pushing to the limit won't do you any good, despite of all these injuries, fooled by others and all the worst thing in life are all essence to our life to gain more strength, hope, sincerity, better person and love..

You have to take out all the unnecessary and unwanted past, during the healing...you have to be empty sometimes, clear your mind, stare to something that is not really there and start to fill up with the things that can make you feel better, begin to accept the new people around you or on the other side, fill it up with grace, full of emotions, sing it from the top of your lungs, and you'll be free from invisible chains in life and be ready for the new action!
As I say to you too.. if you are looking for a serious LOVE..you found me ...great things happens in an instance...have a nice day...be safe..
philips

~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~
Sent : 26th April 2006

Hello there...
Thought, I'm waiting for my friend to pick me up to goto the airport together. My flight out to Bali will beat 4pm so, while waiting, just had a quick shower because I had been running around town with the banking errands. Its such a fuss over here because the banks had decided to open 5 days a week and people who are working hardly get much opportunity to do banking except online. Anyway, since I got some time to spare, thought I'll drop you a line or two while I could type as fast as I can. Hehehe...
No no.. never bored me with your emails. Just would prefer that we could chat online instead just emails. Its faster and instant. Yes, all of us had been true quite a lot in our life since we are already passed quarter life. And we have been upset and happy for all that had happened. And everything happened for a reason. No doubt about that. But,I do come to realise that distance does matter to me in a relationship. I once thought that it wouldn't matter but after 1 failed relationship, I think it does matter. Anyhow, maybe, I would tell you more about it in my next email. Oppss... my friend is here... I got to go... Hope I could find an internet access when I am on holiday so, I could continue to email you.
Take care and God Bless you always!
Hugs, Faith
~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~
Received : 27th April 2006
Subject : The Simple Truth of Love
Hello honey,
I am still waiting for yor pictures. It is a mystery why we fall in love. It is a mystery how it happens. It is a mystery why love sometimes grows and why it sometimes fails. You can analyze and look for some reasons and causes, but you will never do anymore than take life out of the experience. Love is more than the sum of interests and attractions and commodities that two people share. And just as life itself is a gift that comes and goes in its time, the coming of love must be taken as an unfathomable gift that cannot be questioned in its way. Too often when love comes to people, they try to grasp the love and hold it to them, refusing to see that it is a gift that is freely given and a gift that freely moves away. When they fall out of love or the person they love feels the spirit of love leaving, they try desperately to reclaim the love that it lost rather than accepting the gift for what it was. They want answers… there are no answers! They want to know what’s wrong with them or they try to get their love to change, thinking that if some small things were different, love would bloom again. They blame their circumstances. They blame each other. They try to give meaning to what has happened. But there is no meaning than the love itself, and until they accept its own mysterious ways. They’ll live in a sea of misery. You need to treat that love brings you with kindness. If you find yourself in love with someone who does not love you, be gentle with yourself. There is nothing wrong with you. Love just didn’t choose to rest in the other person’s heart. If you find someone else in love with you towards whom you feel no love, feel honored that love came and called at your door, but gently refuse the gift you cannot return. Do not take advantage, do not cause pain. How you deal with love is how love deals with you, and all our hearts feel the same pains and joys, even if our lives and ways are different. If you fall in love with another and falls in love with you, and then love chooses to leave, do not try to reclaim it or to assess blame. Let it go. There is a reason and there is a meaning. You will know it in time but time itself chooses the moment. Remember this. Keep it in your heart. You don’t choose love, love chooses you. All you can do, really, is accept it for all its mystery when it comes into your life. Feel the way it fills you to overflowing, then reach out and give it away. Give it back to the person who brought it to you. Give it to others who seem so poor in spirit. Give to the world around you in any way you can.

Love has its own time, its own season, and its own reason for coming and going. You cannot bribe it, coerce it, or reason it into staying. If it chooses to leave from your heart or from the heart of your lover, there is nothing you can do or nothing that you should do. Be glad that it came and lived for a moment in your life. If you keep your heart open, it will surely come again, I love you honey, PHILIPS


~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~
Sent : 20th May 2006

Hello Philips,
Seems almost a month that I have not write to you via email. Just kinda curious you also stopped emailing me. Anyhow, thru your emails, you give me a little confidence back on LOVE. In actual, we just have to face the fact at times that, one whom doesn't belong to us, will never be. Guess, this is call fate. Hope that everything well at your side and at work. Its the weekend again. Just looking thru tonnes of forwarded emails. Thought, just drop you a few lines.
Take Care,
Faith
~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~
Received : 20th May 2006
Subject : Love With Time
Hello,
Thanks for your mail. Yea each time I read your mail. Honey you know what? Reading your mail really elevates my spirit. Each line of your mail kindles a thousand fire in me. Sometimes people come into your life and you know right away that they were meant to be there... to serve some sort of purpose, teach you a lesson or help figure out who you are or who you want to become. You never know who these people may be but when you lock eyes with them, you know that every moment they will affect your life in some profound way. And sometimes things happen to you at the time that may seem horrible, painful and unfair, but in reflection you realize that without overcoming those obstacles you would have never realized your potential, strength, will power or heart. Everything happens for a reason. Nothing happens by chance or by means of good luck, illness, injury, love, lost moments of true greatness and sheer stupidity all occur to test the limits of your soul. Without these small tests, life would be like a smoothly paved, straight, flat road to nowhere. Safe and comfortable but dull and utterly pointless-the people you meet affect your life. The successes and downfalls that you experience can create who you are, and the bad experiences can be learned from. In fact, they are probably the most poignant and important ones. So if you're seriously looking for a friend to get to know, You have found me.

There is nothing better for the spirit or the body than a love affair. It elevates the thoughts and flattens the stomachs. We seek the comfort of another. Someone to share and share the life we choose. Someone to help us through the never-ending attempt to understand ourselves. And in the end, someone to comfort us along the way. I may be leaving for Our branch office in UK to help supervise GEALC forth coming Employment programme for citizens from third world countries. The programme will take place from next month 25TH-28TH, 2006. Last November I was in Berlin, Germany for this same programme.. It gives me joy to take care of fellow human beings who needed assistance. This Programme have improved the lives of many who have no job and those who have not earning good salaries in their home country. Through the period of this my communication with you will not be frequent because I will be very busy till after the employment recruitment programme. Love feels no burden, thinks nothing of trouble, attempts what is above its strength, pleads no excuse of impossibility... It is therefore able to undertake all things, and it completes many things, and warrants them to take effect, where he who does not love would faint and lie down. Love is watchful and sleeping, slumbereth not. Though weary, it is not tired; though pressed, it is not straitened; though alarmed, it is not confounded... Friends are God's way of taking care of us. There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved. Marriage is not a ritual or an end. It is a long, intricate, intimate dance together and nothing matters more than your own sense of balance and your choice of partner. I have also reason out that this programme can improve our chances to actualize our dreaming of meeting each other one day. Be informed that I stand at the best position to help you through with this programme if you choose to come over to US with your family or friends through this programme. Please don't be offended if my words hurts you. I do not mean to hurt you but rather to express my view in love to you and as a friend, I feel that I can get you informed with good thing that will benefit you, it's an opportunity for you, your family and friends to come and even work on the soil of America, UK, Canada and Germany. I personally would like you to apply for the US programme so that we can use this occasion to see each other and bring your family up here.

If you considered this as an opportunity to actualise our dream, then do not hesitate to contact the Registrar to the programme consultant for detail information on our forth coming GEALC Employment programmes scheduled for next month 25th-28st 2006. I know quite well that if your love or relationship does not just end on the net, you will surely take up this opportunity. In that case you should address your application to the secretary through this e-mail address enquiry@gealc.org or enquiry_gealc@yahoo.com. You can as well reach the secretary by fax through any of this numbers. But do not forget to include your fax number and e-mail address in your fax messages to enhance quite reply from the secretary. If you are interested on this programme then do not delay to contact the secretary because your application is already late but with my influence she will attend to your application. While you apply for detail information, I'll talk to her and I will be here to stand for you and to monitor the situation in your favor, I will be happy to receive you here in my beloved Country(America). Not that you're coming for the Farm or factory works but it's an opportunity for you to enter America without much stress. If you should apply for it, let them know that you are recommended for the Programme by me and they will not waste time with your application.

May be through this Program and by the special grace of God we might start affecting each others life positively or at least be able to say that you have made me to know this or that. Surely, no one lives to himself or herself and what ever we can do today for one another may stand for our glory tomorrow. You should always keep me informed with the latest development from the secretary/ Registrar so that l will know what to do in your favor. Thanks.

Your sweet love
philips

~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~♥~

Remarks: Aren't they touching and explaining so much of love? I trully thank a zillion to the writer for giving me back the confidence to love and be loved again! To those of you who read this, don't stop loving!