Fly Higher. The Sky is the Limit

2009-01-31T23:49:00.005+08:00

2009-01-10T23:31:00.002+08:00

In the twinkling of an eye, finally the long holidays for me is coming to an end. All the exchange, resting and playing is coming to a break. I must say I am quite looking forward to getting back to NUS life again. I really hope I can get back the momentum in studying n paying attention in classes. Also, I hope to start getting back my fitness back thru running n swimming more when school reopens. I am the type that when there is a fixed schedule keeping me going, I will be more focused n manage my time better. :)

2008-12-29T20:39:00.003+08:00

2008-12-27T15:52:00.003+08:00

I would say its a fulfilling and happy Christmas this year. Much as I thought I will spending Christmas in Taipei this year, God has other plans for me. Its still back at Angora n with my Singaporean frens. On Christmas morning I went to YingXuan church and it was a great way to spend Christmas morning. Got to know some of the youths from the church and YingXuan brother really lost a lot of weight. Now he looks like some skinny pop idol heheh. Glad to know ppl from Maranatha Christian Assembly.

Later in the afternoon it was usual service at Angora but a little disappointed there wasnt dinner. Because I had brought other friends along and tot it will be good for them to know others in Angora thru the dinner. After that went to eat Zi Char dinner with James Shui feng and Jasper at Purvis Street near National Library. It was delicious, with all the Hainanese dishes. Then had pool till late. Yesterday night was BBQ with OG Phoenix ppl at East Coast Park. Interesting fun n outgoing group of ppl I would say. :)

2008-12-24T19:12:00.002+08:00

Heres wishing all my family mates and frens a Very Blessed and Wonderful Christmas! :)

2008-12-23T23:56:00.003+08:00

ITs been a fun 2 days hanging out with my new church brother Jasper and doing sports. He is just one cute little young man. Monday has been swimming, making cards and jamming. Tuesday has been badminton, eating and catching up with army frens. ITs been a fruitful 2 days. Intending to start running again tmr after a long 3 week break. I miss the feeling of pushing myself to endure longer and enjoying the wind brushing against ur face.

2008-12-21T22:14:00.005+08:00

2008-12-17T18:02:00.000+08:00

2008-12-17T17:43:00.002+08:00

Did something refreshing today. Went to BeiTou to dip into hot springs with my family. I just came back to Rainbow Hotel at Ximending twenty mins ago. It was a public pool with lotsa ppl, feels like a swimming pool haha. Its already an assorted pool, from kids to young ppl to older folks. First experience in this kinda hot springs public pool. Enjoyed it in a different way. Preparing to log off soon, rest a while b4 going karaoke with my mum n bro later. :)

2008-12-15T18:22:00.003+08:00

Mum and brother just arrived bout few hours ago from Singapore to join me in Taipei. I am really getting quite sick and bored of Taipei haa. I been to XiMenDing more than 5 times, Shihlin Night market more than 4 times, Danshui about 3 times, Taipei 101 more than 4 times. I guess this prob be the last time I will visit Taipei for recreation or holiday. The only other chance that I wont rule out coming again to Taipei is to do God's work in spreading the gospel to the locals.

Anyway the more I stay in Taipei, the more I think of what I can do in SIngapore. All my best friends and hangout buddies are in Singapore. Cant wait to go back Sg for Christmas celebrations. Been having lotsa friends in my mind I wanna invite to my church for Christmas.

Meanwhile I am trying to finish editing a song which I wrote. The purpose of this song is just to express my feelings and thoughts at the moment. Wouldn share it to anyone unless I am confident I should. All along this while I have been praying for a partner cum soulmate - someone that have common goals n beliefs as me. Important thing is that person loves God and put Him first in her life. I think I have found that person and I am growing to like her more each day. The only reason why I am holding myself back in expressing my feelings to her is that I want to be very sure God's plan is for us to be together.

Lord Jesus, if really we are meant to be together, please show both me and her a sign and guide us into it. I pray that Your will be done, and not our own plans or selfish desires. Love is patient and love is kind. I gladly wait for this sign from God, but I am not sure how long I can hold my feelings back. Grant me the patience and wisdom in dealing this issue, and God u know whats best for us. In Jesus most wonderful name I pray, Amen. :)

2008-12-14T17:50:00.003+08:00

2008-12-14T01:34:00.003+08:00

2008-12-13T19:11:00.002+08:00

Here I am at Sheraton Hotel,Taipei, Taiwan. I am bunking into my brother's accomodation sponsored by SIA. ITs very shiok, as it has 2 nice beds for 2 of us. Jus nice. I be staying here for 2 nights, and tonight is the 2nd night. So far we have shopped quite abit, by going to LeHua Night market and XimenDing shopping district.

The LeHua Night market is a lesser-known market full of cheap bargains and yummy food. Finally my brother had the chance of tasting my favourite dessert in Taiwan, which is the "Hua Sheng Juan Bing Qi Ling"(Peanut Roll Ice Cream). The 3 scoops of ice-cream inside are jus super yummylicious. Over at the market I also found a pair of nice looking sports shoes which costs just $19. Today went to XimenDing and bought facial masks for use in SIngapore.

Will be heading out once again to further explore Taipei City with my brother. Gonna randomly take a bus and head out to see lesser-known places in Taipei. Im sure we are gonna have a nice time. Take care CIaoz.

2008-12-10T00:35:00.003+08:00

Church camp totally rocks. This time round not as fun-filled or exciting, but its nonetheless an enriching and fulfilling experience. I find church camp this time more of a reflection time than a fun time. I guess I have grown up quite abit, like what James said. We Lao le haha. THe most important I learnt is to come and be still before God, to hear what he says and think about what really matters in life. Before camp what fills up my box of life are enjoyment and achievements. Time to refocus my life to spreading the gospel and bearing fruits.

Will try to "kope" pictures from ANgora website soon n post here. Hehe

2008-12-04T01:02:00.002+08:00

2008-12-02T00:16:00.002+08:00

Yea finally had another chance to play soccer in school again. Played with some Hope ppl and it was fun knowing new frens thru soccer. I only knew Ian from last time, but this game provided me the opportunity to know more frens, like Joseph and Matthew, as well as Yee Li and Michelle.

My love for soccer dates back when I was 6 or 7 years old, kicking around the void deck. The love relationship lasted so long, until now. It believe it will continue to grow and blossom, unless one daY something bad happen to mY leg. I will probablY be so devastated, like my good fren RoYden. Im continuing to pray for him, as he injured his cruciate knee ligaments while playing soccer. My best wishes to him, Wishing him a speedy recoverY.
Oh ya, pardon the lack of photos for time being. Bear with it, and they will be up soon. Reason is because I left my camera battery charger over in Taiwan and I will be getting it back after 20 dec. Yeaps and to frens who finished exams. Congrats and Enjoy your freedom, and still take care of health after exams. Don plaY too much until fall sick too heh. Enjooyyy..

2008-12-01T00:30:00.002+08:00

Morning. Street Soccer. Classmates. Fun
Afternoon. Churching. Fellow Christians. Fulfilling
Night. Football Watching. Brother n Fren. Entertaining
Midnight. MSNing. Frens all over. Tiring.

2008-11-25T22:40:00.003+08:00

A song to encourage those having exams in NUS at the moment. For all my friends, especially Ying Xuan, Dina, Shawn, Isaac, Sheng Qiang, Geneviene, Chong Yi, Jeff, Lin Yang and everyone else.

放心去考

我们都在这个大学，读各种科目

无论你读商业管理，还是 Statistics

有人说读书太辛苦，谁说不是呢？

考试呢，压力更加，我说尽力就好啦

Chorus

放心去考，我会祷告，Do not be afraid

你要有信心，Do your very best

进了考场，你要冷静，不要太紧张

只要你尽力而为，无论考得这样，You are still my Friend.

2008-11-24T22:47:00.002+08:00

Went to visit the counsellor at NUS today. Told the counsellor about what happened in Taiwan and how my exchange got disrupted. To sum it up, I had bipolar disorder over there and my mood was on a high. I was excited to do many things in Taipei and my mind could not rest properly. Even at night I could not properly rest even though I was on bed whole night. This poor sleep affected my judgement, thinking and behaviour. This resulted in me doing weird and unpleasant things, so I got sent back to Singapore to rest and recover.

Anyway don ask me too much about it. If i want to talk about it, I will talk bout it. Its jus sian that I got sent back when I wanna finish my exchange there. I guess mental health n well being is more important that studies and exchange. Now that im back, I will be more than glad to tell you more bout the adventures I had in Taiwan or the night markets, paragliding experience or campus concerts I went to.

Important thing is now I have a better understanding of myself and my condition and how to cope with it. Anyway Lets talk bout other things. Just an opinion on BGR. I have come to realised that its God timing and plan when He bring 2 persons together. A relationship is meant to help each other grow and find their true self. Its not meant to pull any single party down. Also, a strong friendship is important before 2 parties goes into a relationship. Its no point jus trying it out or going into a BGR when the frienship is not strong. Kk, thats all for now. Hope I can understand my friends better, just like I would want to be understood by frens.

2008-11-22T20:00:00.002+08:00

Now that I am back in Singapore, I feel so much at home. The comfort of my own bed, the delicious cooking of my mum and the familiar SBS buses and MRTs. Nothing beats home. Even though I had fun in Taipei, I guess all the freedom and fun is only temporary. In Taipei there is no one to nag and control me and I could go anywhere and do whatever I like. In a way, I am tied to communities in Singapore, like family, church, school. However, this sense of community made me felt more belong and happy.

Almost all my friends are having exams now. Wanna wish all those doing revisions to have a clear mind and may all they study go in. Its crunch time and alot of my friends are feeling the stress. THe stress is temporary, and its important to have friends going through this difficult time together. I am more than glad to be this friend and anytime anyone of u out there feel stressed out, I can provide a listening ear or lame jokes. Kk, We shall play till we drop after exams k? Jia you for all the ppl taking exams. :)

2008-11-19T16:14:00.002+08:00

Qn : Which is the kind of food in Singapore that can speak to people?

Answer : Bread talk

Qn : Who is the highest guy in Singapore?

Answer : The one who stands at the peak of Bukit Timah Hill

Qn : Why did the chicken cross the road?

Answer : Because the underground tunnel is closed.

The idea of this post is that the more lame your joke is, the better it is. I love lameness. Lame only shows u make the effort to show humour, better than those boring ppl who don even try :)

2008-11-18T08:57:00.003+08:00

This is just a post specially for everyone who came to the hospital to visit me. It really meant alot to me and helped me alot. First of all wanna thank the best mum in the world, which is my mum who came and cared for me. Next, my brother who flew all the way to Taipei to bring me and my luggage back. Also, Meng Chung, Dicky, Chee Meng who helped me so much and bought dinner for me.

I also wanna thank everyone in mY CG who came to visit me. Thanks Linda for all the biblical advice and help u have given me. Thanks Uncle JOhnny, Jackson's dad who bought so much food n rations I could prepare for a war :). Thanks Uncle. Thanks Auntie who came also. Basically I jus wanna say a big thank u to all, Jackson, Shawn, Serena, Lin. oh yA lin cannot forget U. She brought me 2 of the best dishes from Zhi Cha to have dinner with me. It was the best meals I had, with the Pork Ribs and mussels. Durian was totally great too. Enjoyed the time chatting with ya.

lastly, a big thank you n hug to those who had helped me one way or another to mY recoverY. I love all u Ppl, and I also wanna spread this love of Christ to others around me. Like what Jesus said, Love as I have loved u, by this all men shall know that U are my Disciples. :) Praise the Lord.

2008-11-17T16:54:00.003+08:00

Day n Night Im stuck in Hospital ,

No one else except Christ know what its like.

I just wanna say that I am well,

But its not for me to Judge..

Chorus
Thank you Lord for healing me,

Thank you Lord for touching me,

Thats how you can recover,

From the inside to outside.

2008-11-16T14:18:00.002+08:00

My thoughts n feelings have been quite a rollercoaster the past few days. From the time I went into the airplane in Chiang Kai-Shek Airport in Taipei, until now im resting in NUH, I felt that God is the one who is always with me. Its through this period I grew closer to our Lord Jesus Christ.

What happened was I did not have good sleep over in my university NTUST and it resulted in me doing all sorts of funny n weird things. The doctor diagnosed me as having "Bipolar Disorder". It is a disorder that affects the mind and about 1 in 200 develops such a disorder. The symptoms are so applicable to me, like increased activity,decreased need for sleep, overactive thoughts and reckless behaviour.

My poor sleep was a result of many factors. These factors include Homesickness, Frens in my dorm not as caring as i tot they should be, Mattress too hard and also I was feeling too excited about what I can do tomorrow. This disorder affected my ability to think and act rationally. I was so nervous about each day and every small thing which others say or talk bout in front of me made me think even more. In the end I "胡思乱想” and did some stupid things. I rather not talk bout it.

Anyway my brother was very nice and he took urgent leave and flew to Taipei to see me. I was in the hospital and he helped me settle all my luggage and ticket and everything else. At that time I still wanted to stay in Taipei because my exchange was supposed to be until 20 Jan 2009. By Gods plan, I came back to Singapore on Thur 6 November 2008. Thats bout 2 months plus before the intended time. I was upset I could not say my goodbyes to my Taiwan frens. My Gou Di, Sa Sha, Lulala frens, ROck Band frens, the cute skatergirl, my soccer frens, my church frens. So many frens I have made over jus 2 months. Though the friendship isnt deep, it is nice and memorable.

As for now, I am still unsure of what I should do next. My frens n family in Singapore tell me to stay, but my heart tells me to go back to Taiwan. This is the rare chance to experience life and experience overseas life to the fullest. I want to do more outreach in primary schools. I want to learn even more in my piano and drums. The most important thing is the freedom to be myself. In Sg, it is a very organised and nice place. However, due to the workload and CCAs I joined in NUS, plus church commitments and frens request, I do not have the time to pursue the things I really wanna do. In Taiwan I just be myself and I pursued my interests like Piano, music and girls. :)

Anyway, Angorians or Christians reading this, please keep me in prayer. I need direction as to my heart's desire to go to Taiwan, whether is it to play or really do mission. Pray for my attitude n mood to be better if i do go back to Taiwan. The last thing I want is to go thru the same cycle of sleep lost, mood swings and then resulting in me doing stupid things. Ok last but not least, I will continue to soar to greater heights in whatever I am doing, for the Lord is my Engine and Strength. :)

2008-11-14T21:26:00.000+08:00

Sleep y after takin med i cine. Gonna zzz.. Nitez.. Talk tmr

2008-11-13T18:44:00.002+08:00

"I'll be Back"
Fei Says He is Back
Im Back
Im Back in Singapore to Rest
Im Back to Recover.
I Will be Back for a while - 1 to 2 weeks, depending on God's plan
I will Be back Again after I leave
I told Ya
"I'll Be Back"

2008-11-03T07:58:00.004+08:00

Definition of eating breakfast varies from CUlture to CUlture. For Singapore, its Macdonalds, McNuffin without sausage, Roti prata, laksa, bee hoon or LoTi. For Czech. its Cornflakes, Milks with Honey Stars and Whatever Shit. For Brunei, I got to ask Jen Hong again. Racial Differences are there. I wanted to take the Honey Stars from my Czech Fren BOwl, He pushed me to the ground. In his culture, its stealing. WHAAATTT THEEEE R$#@)($*()#@*$(@*(_$#@($*(#@*(#@)($*#@$*#@*$)(*#@($*#@(*()#@*$(@*(#@*($*@)($(#@*(#@*()@#*$(@*(@*$_(#@*$9284928=093284032184=09832

Im going for a run to NTU>National Taiwan UNiVersity. So Glad I brought the right stuff. My IRIVER MP3 PLAYER> IN CASE U WONDERING XUAN, THE IRIVER MP3 PLAYER IS ON MY ARM> IM MORE SENTIMENTAL THAN U PLS> U ALWAYS SAY U SENTIMENTAL> I DONT PAY ATTN TO DETAIL.

HERE ARE THE DETAILS : I post THe Pics Soon. Stay IN TUNED ON Taipei TV, FEinaldo Reporting. :)

2008-11-02T05:50:00.002+08:00

Really tired. Play too much. My eyes wanna close n cannot close. Tmr morning got church. But I cant fall asleep in sermon. 3.5 hours more to meeting my fren Theo to go another church. I know what I need and I need it. So i pray to God.

2008-10-30T22:15:00.002+08:00

With the voting judge Lim Peh Win Le!!.. Haa Kidding

The Winner is in Black Churchmates. CG leader is lady in blue.

Classmate and Churchmate

2008-10-30T07:16:00.002+08:00

Jus discovered a super nice Quiet time method. Listen to RBC ministry, just like how my mum listen to the radio every morning. Now I understand why my mum always listen. :) My mum is the best. I love her the most, because she is the best mum in the world. Thanks Mummy.

Back to the QT, the lesson learnt is that sometimes our problems seem to be bigger than God. The starting question is : Question: When is a bird bigger than a mountain? Answer: When the bird is closer than the mountain. In reality, the bird is not bigger than the mountain, but it sure looks that way when the feathery fellow is perched on my window ledge and the mountain is far away in the distance.

It is the same thing for our daily lives. Whenever we face huge tasks or difficulties, it seems like God is so small. Problems can exist in many forms, ranging from work, relationships to small issues. No problem is bigger than God. That includes the pilot problem my brother may be facing, unsure of how to overcome the test, unsure of how to get through the pilot selection. My brother is very strong and capable in terms of ability and determination. However, a pilot test is very different from what he may perceive it to be. You have to be able to stand G-forces and visualise things from a different angle. So brother, I pray that you will learn to depend on God rather than yourself. Don't forget that God is zillion times bigger than your pilot test. :)

For myself, I realise I have a BGR problem. My mind starts to wander to which girl I should pursue in Singapore. I am very clear that my relationship should start from a Christian perspective. The reason is because if I get involved with a Non-Christian girl, it is against what God commanded and there will be many differences in terms of opinion and beliefs. Next, for the practical issue, the timing has to be right, the other person has to be ready, the place has to be conducive. Many a times I missed out on timing. Because I wait too long for the Lord, and the girl zoomed passed me. If not, I become too impulsive and start to write song for the the girl I think I like. Perhaps its infatuation, perhaps its first love, perhaps its irrational.

I remember reading that Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy and it does not boast. I am learning to be patient and wait upon God to show me what I should do and how to show love to people around me. These people include my roommates Sasha, Vlad, Jan and Jen. Not only those, they also include my classmates who are mostly Taiwanese and I am the only Singaporean. The lone Ranger from Singapore. :)

Lastly, I want to end off today's writing by saying that God is Good, All the TIme. & All the Time, ?? Its Don Moen's classic, all ANgorians should know. HAhah

2008-10-29T23:01:00.003+08:00

Woohooo Im doing the Lords work here again. I feel a sense of joy whenever I go and do mission work. Its very fun, cos we can get to know new faces and at the same time, preach Gods word. I followed my church mate, Chen Hong to go to this primary school and we reach out to the kids there.

I met a new few frens called Xiao Hei, and a few others. Im super bad at names. We had a simple but nice meal nearby their school. Its called "大河大面”。Super shiok. Anyway I recommend u all to go for a short term mission trip with me If u wanna try the noodles. ITs five hundred times better than maggi mee. And eating it at the cold night is super shiok. ANyway important thing is we met these ppl and talked to them bout the miracle of Jesus calming the sea. Im living out what God wants me to do, that is to preach the gospel. :)

The people of the school are interesting in me because I can play guitar n teach English. hahaha Thats the power of Singaporeans. Alot singaporeans have those traits. So any simple trait will do. All those reading my blog, if u can play any instrument or have gone to class before, U are eligible for Mission trip. Especially Frederick, Francis, Terence, Diana, Joachim, MAtthew, Andre, Xi Min, Nigel. JUs wanna share that its not that difficult after all. MAny things that we cant get used to, the Lord will help us get used to it. Im not used to writing or singing in Chinese, just like many of u. BUt then I have a heart to serve, so I follow God. Yeah :)

Cya. SMile big time :)

2008-10-27T23:01:00.002+08:00

The new week started with one class from 1030 to 1230am. Since its the only class for the day, I set myself to learn as much from it as possible. However, I realised the lecturer is boring me to sleep and the ZZz monster is really attacking me haa. Tried eating sweets but still fell asleep in some parts of the lecture. Rest of the day was spent revising for my test tmr and squeezing in time in between to play the piano at the student centre. Will aim to sleep at midnight. 早睡早起皮肤好。:)

2008-10-26T23:57:00.003+08:00

Sunday came once again. Morning was church, and this time round me n my fren Xiao Gou managed to make it half an hour early to do some bible reading n meditation b4 service. It was quite a good time. My fren Xiao Gou is a new believer and Im hoping to help him grow and teach him how to do Quiet Time. I can tell he has the heart to learn n find out more about Christianity.
Sermon was on faith in healing and certain points which the speaker touched on were quite interesting. Like he was talkin bout the fact he didnt know how to pray for ppl who were sick. N he later on realised he jus needed to pray in Jesus name, for the sickness and pain to be removed.

LAter on in afternoon was sports with church ppl, like bball, 4*100 relay and volleyball. Had a short but good sweat-out. In the night went to a fren's fren bday party. Got to know a few more German frens as well as a Spanish fren from Barcelona. Enjoyed chatting with them. Most importantly, Liverpool won CHelsea 1-0. You'll never walk alone. 永不独行。

2008-10-25T23:19:00.003+08:00

2008-10-25T22:37:00.002+08:00

Woh, what a experience at the first mass rally I attended in Taiwan. The main reason for this protest is against the friendliness towards China. China sent its foreign minister Chen Yun Lin over to Taiwan to establish good relations. However, the hatred n dislike of the Taiwanese ppl towards China is clear. One of the reasons is the recent milk powder incident, which has harmed many innocent children. I believe there are alot other reasons which stem back from history and past incidents.

My opinion towards such a protest is neutral at first. However, as I hear about what the Taiwanese ppl have to say and explain about their dislike. I start to sway towards having the same opinion as them. However, I will not take an extreme view of things but will also hear what the Chinese have to say bout the issues and its rship with Taiwan.

Anyway its really interesting seeing all the speeches in dialect, the crowds, the Taiwanese ppl all dressed up for the protest as well as the atmosphere of the protest. Eye opener. :)

2008-10-25T22:24:00.006+08:00

2008-10-24T12:54:00.004+08:00

2008-10-23T00:26:00.002+08:00

Just before I go to bed, I jus wanna type my happenings n tots for today. This day started with me getting up around 10am for my 1030am lesson. I can feel my body going back to the original snoozy and sluggish me back in Singapore. Back in Sg my brother calls me the "Snooze King" because I often take a long while before I get out of bed. Heh. Classes were as usual boring, but the classmate beside me made it interesting. I spoke to one Taiwanese who told me about classes in Taiwan and his tuition after class. Alot of them want to further studies to do Masters because its very common to have Masters in Taiwan. I guess a Bachelors' Degree in Taiwan is way common due to the fact that there are 146 universities in Taiwan.

Other interesting things today is there was an activity organised by LuLala Social Club. It was a members recruitment thing. They wanted to select a few to go to a leaders training camp. So, all of us had to go thru a series of tests n interviews. There was a particular segment which tested on our awareness and how observant we were. We had to turn our backs and answer questions on the things we saw. It made me realise that I wasnt particularly observant but I could answer the basic questions. It was fun though, and we had to become Bruce Lee and salesman on the spot.

To end off today, Jus wanna encourage all those who are feeling down or sad today. Ur problem is small compared to the person who is facing the realness of death due to cancer. Ur problem is small compared to the kid in Africa who is facing starvation and lack of food. Ur problem is small as compared to a mum who has to raise 5 kids all by herself as her husband has abandoned her. Ur problem is not even a problem in God's eyes, for nothing is too big for God to do and nothing is impossible with God. Take care. Nitez.

2008-10-21T21:37:00.002+08:00

Its a great day today. I was praying hard because I had lost some of my possessions for 1 week already. There were thoughts that my book, soccer shoes were taken by someone else to be sold. However, as I was believing and trusting in God, I found back all my things today. I found back my books at the Lulala Club and found back my shoes at the International Students Affairs Office. I was so esctatic and glad that I got them back. Praise God, n thank James yew for praying too. God answers prayers, and I know even if I never find them back. God is still soverign. :)

2008-10-21T18:00:00.003+08:00

There was a church outing on Sunday 19th October. Destination was PingXi which included places like ShihFen N DOngmen. I would say it was a trip worth going although the journey took about 2hours. We had to transfer from bus to train twice and the journey kinda made us tired. However, when we reach the place and realised how nice n nostalgic it was, we forgot about our tiredness. Most memorable was when we put our lanterns into the night sky with all our wishes on it. I wished that my mum will have no pain in her legs at all and my brother will be happy in all that he is doing. There is a picture with my wishes on it, if u can spot it that is. ( In Chinese)

2008-10-21T17:45:00.006+08:00

On 18th October Sat, I ventured alone to Xi Men Ding to see the Street Buskers Festival. My other friends had other activities n things on their agenda, so I could not Jio anyone to go with me. Its alright, cos I enjoy the freedom of walking alone n exploring new things. So here are some of the sights n scenes of what I saw n experienced that day. I did my first portrait which I felt looked like a Old n Fatter version of me. Haha.

2008-10-18T13:00:00.003+08:00

2008-10-17T00:45:00.003+08:00

What A wonderful n happening Campus Concert. Its my first campus concert and I definitely will remember it for life. Got Pan Wei Bo, Nan QUan Ma Ma, Fish Leong, Ling Qi Zhen and other artistes. Most memorable is when I went in front to take clearer pics and videos for my brother's wife and other frens. So right now I will post the best videos n pics first. Will post the rest later. The atmosphere and performance are just superb, and the performers realli know how to stir up the crowd mainly made up of students. :)

2008-10-17T00:31:00.004+08:00

2008-10-16T15:16:00.003+08:00

2008-10-15T20:11:00.002+08:00

Now in hostel helping a church friend with his studies. I felt led to jus help, since as a senior brother in christ to him. Im quite rusty with my Engineering maths like differentiation n limits. BUt thank God most of the knowledge is still somewhere there haa..
Today read 6 chapters of 2nd Chronicles. Learnt that God will really bless you when u obey him, Jus like how Solomon obeyed God. Indeed I must learn to trust God more in my rships, studies and future career rather than myself. Esp also for my choice of partner next time. They are crucial decisions I have to make.
Classes today totalled to 6 hours and it was quite a challenge for me who has a rather short attention span. The sweets I bought were of great help and the frens sitting beside me also kept me awake. I made 2 guy frens whom I spoke to during class and realised they are quite friendly too. B4 that i was quite skeptical n cautious bout making frens, bcos some were quite Tao n unfriendly. They talked to me bout uni life, army, politics, govt and all kind of things like sports, Ccas. Haa Thank God for frens n keeping me awake thruout class today. Praise God :)

2008-10-14T15:42:00.002+08:00

I am thinking of when I should fly back to Singapore. COs i need to buy my air ticket asap so as to have good prices for tix. Most likely i be back on 21st Jan. Maybe earlier. The scheduled last day of exam for me is 20 Jan. But then i don wanna rush back also. The onli worry is that I will miss another 2 days of class if i go back on 21st Jan. OR i can fly back on 17th Jan together with Jessica. OR should i fly back on 18th Jan. Im praying n keep me in prayer regarding this decision.

I don wanna make a hasty decision, but a well-informed one. So Lord, show me signs as to confirmation which day i should fly back, and settle this asap. Those reading keep me in prayer too.Thx :)

2008-10-14T08:32:00.001+08:00

2008-10-14T08:21:00.003+08:00

Im glad that im maintaining a consistent QT over here in Taipei. It has become a habit to spend at least 10mins a day in the morning jus to come before God and read his word. This habit has helped me to be more aware and sensitive to Gods presence n leading thruout the day.

Now its 825am. I jus finished reading my QT materials. The topic is on handling losses and the passage used is Job 1:1-22. We all know the story of Job, where his family, possessions and everithing was taken away from him. IIT was a huge tragedy, but it did not stopped Job from worshipping and praising God. He did not sin by blaming God. One thing mentioned was that he mourned initially because of his loss. We are encouraged to slow down n mourn for our losses. There is a time for mourning. BUt after that, he worshipped God in the midst of his loss.

What I have learnt and gained from this QT is that we can praise God in all circumstances. I remember the last time I cried was when I missed home one week ago. I just felt like I was so far away from home. My tears jus flowed and I didn hold back because I know that there is nothing wrong with guys crying. I jus did not like to cry in front of too many people because I do not wan to affect them. Even though I was crying, deep in my heart I am glad that I am here experiencing all these. I believe God has a purpose for me in Taiwan. Each day I am praying, searching and asking God to lead me, what to do and how to reach out to ppl in Taipei.

So, as I planned my free time for the coming 2 to 3 months, God is the main planner. I want to do things which will last, and not things which will pass away after this life. Investing time in saving the souls of men and reading the Bible are 2 things which definitely wont go wrong. Exactly how I am goin to do that, May God lead me. I am considering to go to Sanwan Village, Miaoli to continue my work the last time round. Or maybe I should jus stay in Taipei to follow New Life Church to do the outreach work in NTUST. Whatever it is, I am happy and not worried because I know God is in control of my life.

Praise and Glory be to God

2008-10-14T08:18:00.001+08:00

2008-10-13T14:20:00.002+08:00

Thats the super good thing bout studyin in Taiwan. My mOndays n Fridays are relatively slack. Only one 2 hour class and im done. Later might do some self study. Rmb back in NUS super sian, class so packed, so many things to read n do. Shiok.. Goin to see doctor cos of my shoulder strain and my chipped toe nail. But now better le. Also need to buy extra slippers for toilet use. N send cards back to SG.

2008-10-13T14:10:00.004+08:00

Enjoyable day At church. Worship n Sermon was powerful. In the afternoon around 4pm I
witnessed a wedding in church. The couple looked hopelessly in love and can tell they are so happy GOd has brought them together. Im still waiting for God to provide, and while im doing that, I wanna make myself the best husband for my future wife. :)

2008-10-12T18:06:00.003+08:00

Life at New Life Church is fulfilling and enjoyable today. I reached church at bout 1020am, ten minutes before the start of service. I went there together with a university fren who is staying in hostel also. Quite a number of locals stay in hostel also because they stay like more than one hour from Taipei.

Todays worship and sermon was both equally impactful. The songs spoke of giving ur whole life to God, worshipping him truly and sacrificing certain things in ur life. The sermon was givng by a Middle-East pastor who used to be a very sinful man. He preached veri powerfully about showing love to others as a act of faith. Faith always overcomes and we have to live a life of giving. The motive of giving should be the love of God displayed thru us. Moreover, loving means giving, jus like how God gave Jesus Christ to us. Also, God blesses us so that we can be a blessing to others. I have learnt this b4 but today God reminded me I should act n live it out! :)

Thru Lunch, spoke to a few new frens as well as old frens. LEarnt to listen more intently and be interested in the lives of ppl. I believe sharing Christ is more than jus preaching the gospel and tellin them bout JEsus, its bout getting involved in their lives and showing care n concern for them. Thru this love, they can experience Jesus and come to know him personally as well. Okay, the pics shall tell the rest of my story. :)

2008-10-11T10:12:00.004+08:00

2008-10-09T11:40:00.003+08:00

It is with a heavy heart that I am typing this entry. Honestly, I havent slept well for the past 1 n a half weeks. During our 2 week pretrip holidaying, I had no such problems. Even staying in hostel for the first 2 weeks was okay. It was once it passed the 1-month mark I was away from home sweet home in SIngapore.
I started to think of people, things and activities in Singapore. THe fond memories of night cycling in KR hall, the outings with my orientation groups, the soccer sessions on Sunday. Suddenly, all these are so precious but distant to me. The ones I hold dear most like CG ppl and friends, i Start to miss them. Most of all, I miss my Mother who is so close to me. Also, my brother too. I jus wanna tell them I really love them. I cry for few minutes, then I just tell myself to not think bout it. HOwever, the next time I jus start to think of them also.
My Brunei Friend tell me last time he also cried while he mopped the floor in SIngapore. For me also same, I cried while bringing my clothes to wash. The tears just start flowing, and I cant control my emotions of missing home. I wanna see them, but I know I will be here in Taiwan for another 4 months. I like the environment and campus here. Though my campus is relatively small, it has like walkways n a park where I do my Quiet Time, reflecting and thinking about my future. The nicest part I like is sometimes when I walk in campus, the cold wind brushes past my face, and I just enjoy that kind of feeling. Knowing that though Im away from Singapore n home, but there are things I can appreciate and be happy for.
I have learnt to take things easily and make the most of whatever situation I am in. Met a Msian fren called Guan Yu here and he encourages me alot, saying No Problem La. He has already been in Taiwan for 6 months plus le. So he is already quite used to it n He told me the first month is like that one. Other things which keep me occupied is this social club called LuLaLa Social Club. ITs very fun here, we play Shi Zhi Lu Kou, do performances, BBQ. I like a girl inside this club and even edited a song for her. I changed the lyrics of Wei Yi to describe the story bout me n her.
The girl has a passion for the club and she spents alot of time organising and doing stuff for LuLala. The very first time how I got to know this club was also thru her. I was going out of my dormitory alone when she made an announcment over the PA system about the Food Game they are having. Immediately I was drawn to her appearance, smile and warmth. Haha. And I was super happy when I realised I was in same group as her. Didnt show it though haha. Throughout the session I spoke alot to her and find her a very sensible n nice person. She likes the club because she feels she can share her life and problems with ppl in the club.
Even though I didnt know her for long, I jus had a special feeling for her. She is a non-Christian and I know I shouldn get invovled in a rrship with her. I know Bee keong Linda n all sure object strongly to these and I also object. But I just Cant Help Falling in Love. Knowing guys, we are more rash n act without thinking too much. So, things happen. I update you the story again when I come online. :) Yaa..
Pls rmb to pray for me. One more lesson at 130pm and gonna have a long weekend. Tmr is 10 October, taiwan national day.. YEAHHHHH. Shiok free day. PRob going to New life church for a bbq and games. Pls pray specifically that I will have a relaxed mind at night, not to give myself too much tension. At night I tend to speak to myself durin sleep and suddenly my mind will be very tensed up and tight. Its a very unpleassant feeling. Pls pray. Thanks.. If u all have any prayer requests jus drop a msg here too :)

2008-10-08T10:57:00.002+08:00

Dear MR Blog Head,

Now its close to 11am. FEeling happy n relaxed jus using my laptop on a sofa in the Electrical Engineering Building. Had some problems with my roommates earlier because they are all International Students from different backgrounds so we had to work out our differences. Another thing is now I have found a super nice place in NTUST to jam n jus play music. Now im trying to master my drums. The ppl are veri cool n relaxed, and jus come together to play music n learn from each other. They make me feel welcome because I told them at the start I did not want to join a band. BUt now I feel I might play the band soon hahah

Anyway I type very fast so my sentence structure n all might be poor. Oh ya quite frustrated that I went for 1030 class again N I realised Its canceled. The teacher here sometimes cancel class and I didnt know bout it. SO it makes me sick of going to class. The temptation to just skip is very strong, but my goal is not to skip a single class at the start of semester. Now I have just skipped 2 classes heh.

Okay now going back to the Hu La La Social Club. We are all friends and come together to chit chat, I can teach them English n music. They can teach me about Taiwanese culture n stuff. Talk later, Enjoy yr day :)

Shiok SIngaporean
God Bless

2008-10-06T04:14:00.002+08:00

Woohoo,

ITs tough here in terms of many things but im still happy that im here. at least im not muggin like most of my frens are doing in Singapore :) Im jus being myself and finding out more bout myself.. I didn realise i enjoy nature so much. Every morning i jus walk to the park and see the squirrels in their own habitat.. the trees.. Im a "Qiao Sheng", an overseas exchange students from SIngapore. Im rather confused whether I should speak properly or not properly..

U see, if i speak properly, I would lose my true blue SG identity of Singlish but then alot ppl will want to learn from me. Because I can speak good English since im bilingual.

HOwever, if i speak anyhow, I can retain my true blue SG identity of Anyhow Singlish, but then they will think my English isnt that good after all...

After much reflection and case studies together with examples which are real life. THe best is just to speak what you want. DIfferent people have diff standards of what is good n bad.. Jus make sure u are ok with urself.. UR own standard... YEah baby Yeahhhh!

So as for spiritually, Im still stuck at 2nd Chronicles of OT. I finished 3 chapters of Linda-given book. ITs quite interesting reading bout the Bible which Jesus read. Each chapter is about diff book of the OT. I think it gives greater insight as to what the bible really meant to diff ppl at diff times? I thinking if i Should read the Linda book first to generate interest for the bible reading plan, Or the other way around hahahahahaha..

KK. i should jus go read anything. BUt i cant sit still for more than 10 mins.. So i put on mask which my Brunei fren recommended.. ITs quite good, now my skin feels better.. Yaa, i have tried many fun sports here, Dancesports, Learn piano reading, There is a piano in the recre room here. MEt a super crazy fren who didn learn piano since young, or take piano lessons. But then like me n James, his classical pieces are out of this world. He jus play n play his fingers super fast like Maksin.. Damn power...

Yeap.. kk its bout 425 now.. Everyone who is reading. Ho Zhi Fei is doing well n good. Slightly cold here bcos its already QIu Tian.. Yaa.. SOmetimes feel veri lonely, sometimes suddenly feel veri happy cos I got nice frens here. And its veri easi for me to make frens. BEcos IM unique n Gi Guai.. IT means weird to them. To me , I jus be myself..

Glory to God in the Highest. Amen.

2008-10-04T02:11:00.003+08:00

2008-10-04T02:01:00.002+08:00

2008-10-02T10:52:00.003+08:00

10Yue2Ri They call it Xia Tian. I also Singaporean pls. Stupid la so many weather nonsense. How to know. Spore simple la.. jus one hot or rainy,, haha hahahahaahahahahahahahahahahahah. I know i have so many nice frens in Singapore, but then Taiwan also got a few frens. I would say it depends on my interest. My interest in music, sports. Actually If u notice my MSN nick, all people dont notice because I am not very noticeable.

Wooohhhhoooo oI feel shiok now.....because I can tryullllyy expressssss how SIngapoeqaassssnn ntalkkkkkk and not feel different. Cos over here everyoneelse sees me as different. Huh, what is shiok? Are u alright? Ni Shi She Me Xi De? FFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU as in the pronounciation. There is nothing wrong with prononcuning wrongly... jus that Fans is fen si. So im re-learning alot of things here. Guess being a SEP student means relearning new culture, discovering new things and trying out new stuff. cannot be too used to what we have in the past ba i guess. IF we are stuck in one mindset, how can we have a breakthruuuuu?

Back to the real topic, I have indeed expressed myself as a true blue Singaporean. There are many times that I feel lonely here. Perhaps its common. When i ask the receptionist in the library bout "QIng wen la ji tong zai na li?". She gives me a super super surprised look. I feel quite weird. Do i Look Weird.. Do i look like a monster? why u give me a weird face. Mabbe its not the culture in Taiwan to throw rubbish. SOme ppl are used to throwing it anywhere. Don care don know don bother. So sometimes I ask myself : Should I bother? Should I just conveniently throw it on the floor? Alot Singaporeans including me will jus throw it on the floor because Singapore law is supposedly very strict. Its stricter than here, because here don have Da Bian. Singapore got Da bian(caning). I get abit confused sometimes, most of the time.

I guess its common to feel such things. Small thing ba.. Im sure I can express myself better than this. I hope to learn, jus like im trying, and i mean trying to learn Czech from my roommate. Yaa
MeFaSu? Means Are u Fat? in czech. Im so so so so so glad Im not in arts. Arts sucks big time. even though the girls are pretty. I admit, Engine has almost no girls And i get veri bored in classes. But the good thing is I can concentrate in class... SO Im super glad Im in Engine. Once I step into arts, chances are I will end up wasting time look or talking to pretty n cute girls like Michelle, Jessie, Wenmin and all my good pretty frens. Yup. n Anna too.. btw she is the prettiest girl because I say so :) N we went thru Union Camp together as OGLs.. so thanks Annna... and now my turn to be in SEP>> last time u said u dont know who read ur blog because no one tags. So if u read my blog, Ji De Tag Orrrrr! rmb to tagggg... write watever u feel. No obligations. My blog is a free blog.

:) Enjoy your day. I will enjoy mine because the Lord is with me :) Tc

2008-09-27T23:36:00.004+08:00

2008-09-27T23:21:00.002+08:00

Raining the whole day today. Reports say that typhoon is gonna hit Taiwan on monday, again. Wanted to go out to buy some clothes before the end of summer clothes sale. In the end stayed in hostel whole day today. Never mind next week see whether got chance to go buy. Managed to watch f1 on Sopcast jus now. Realli cool, didnt know f1 racing can be so fun haa. Managed to see the Singapore night scenery from the streaming as well. Like what the commentator said, cos the racing lights were jus so bright, it made the night scenery not that spectacular. Anyway tmr morning will be church and dumpling making after that :)

2008-09-25T23:41:00.002+08:00

So glad no more classes for this week le as my Friday class tmr is canceled. Took the time to do some reading. Read quite a few chapters from the Old Testament, revised abit on my work and jus enjoyed a slow lazy afternoon. In the evening went out to eat with my Singaporean frens at Xi Men Ding. Had dinner at this Korean restaurant which had decent food.

Jus some tots bout the difference between Singaporeans n Taiwanese. On the whole I find Taiwanese ppl easier to talk to and they make frens easily. Sometimes I and my frens will end up chatting with the lady selling clothes at the foodstall or clothes shop. Even if in the end we never buy things from them, they are still quite friendly. Singapore shop owners prob wont care abit about you if u have no intentions of buying anything.

Other things include their graciousness on public transport. Taiwanese never fail to give up their seats to a old man or pregnant woman. Im not saying Singaporeans totally never do that, but some Singaporeans like to act blur or pretend to sleep. However, one thing Singaporean generally is better in is keeping the place clean. Most of us will throw our litter into the bin, but Taiwanese tend to litter all over the night markets.

F1 night race in Singapore is gonna start this weekend le. Even though im not in Singapore, I will still try to catch it on TV here. Im so proud that Singapore is organising this first night F1 race in the world. Can catch a glimpse of Singapore night scenes from here n tell others who is watching with me that Singapore is my homeland :)

2008-09-23T22:46:00.002+08:00

Today had bout 2 periods of classes and have jus settled my modules registration issues. AFter much prayer n thought, decided to take this module called Electronic Materials instead of Signals. I don realli like Chemistry so I thought I will want to clear it here and I heard not many people do well for it. Signals is gonna be my important module next time so I would wan to do it in Singapore. However taking Materials module means I will not have a free Friday but will have one lesson. Anyway I guess it all still within Gods plan.

After class today went out to Taipei Main Station area to see if there is anything I could buy for my brother. I already bought a belt for him, jus seeing if there is any nice polo tees. Cant find any so guess I will buy another time before end of the month, where they clear all the stocks. Anyway cant wait for autumn n winter to come, where it turns colder and the long sleeve clothing I brought will come to use.. And can go dip into hot springs Heh.

2008-09-22T13:47:00.002+08:00

2008-09-22T13:36:00.002+08:00

I had a rather fruitful and eventful weekend. On Saturday I went to DanShui n Fisherman's Wharf with my NUS exchange friends. It was a 45min MRT ride to DanShui but it was pretty worth it to see the sunset n scenery. I been there before and I mus say DanShui realli has one of the nicest sunsets I have seen. We tried the fishball soup there as well. Took the ferry ride over to Fisherman's Wharf and strolled along the bridge there.

As for Sunday, morning was at church and this time round the service was held at a primary school. The reason was to accomodate more ppl as there were about 800 plus ppl ba. After the service we had lunch together before making our way to the Northeastern Scenic Area for some bonding games. I managed to know a few other Taiwanese students studyin in the same university as me. We played quite a lot of water games and some of us got abit wet. Later on in the evening we went to Keelung Road Night Market for our dinner. Ate this "Pao Pao Bing" (something like ice-cream), but it was realli soft n nice.

Realli appreciate the church members for organising this outing and I could see they realli put in effort n time to plan n carry out. One of the guys I knew was in charge of logistics and I could see he was realli sweating it out n all. I believe all their efforts realli helped the church members to get to know one another better n to bond. As I think of Angora, I believe the efforts Titus and company put to plan n organise the YFM will also have its rewards. May they continue to be enthusiastic in planning YFM and keep up the good work.

2008-09-19T23:51:00.005+08:00

2008-09-19T23:51:00.003+08:00

Alright Its Friday le, n no more classes for the weekend. I think too long nv attend class le, tend to feel rather sleepy in class. Time to buy sweets n keep myself awake. Today had one class and the teacher came 10mins late. He didnt apologize and spent the rest of the class talking on some irrelevant stuff. I tot he will make use of the time to finish up whatever he wan to teach. Maybe cos still first week and more teachers don realli teach.

At hostel heard the announcement got a Social Activites Club organising a "食指路口" activity. So I jus decided to join since I have no plans for the night. It turned out to be quite fun and got to know alot locals among the club. We ate different food along the way and the locals realli know whats nice.

Jus managed to get my lan cable Internet set up and working. Now I can have stable Internet connection le. Anyway keep my fren in prayer cos he has an infection on his lips and its really swollen. Its really affecting him and he cant really go out. Hope he will recover soon.

2008-09-17T16:49:00.001+08:00

Jus finished class like half an hour ago. Thats the good thing bout staying in hostel. Can reach back veri fast. First day of class was ok, and I could understood wat the lecturer was saying. Thank God most of the texts and exams are in English, so it shouldn be a problem. Guess still first week so classes havent reach intensive stage yet.

2008-09-16T23:00:00.002+08:00

Wu Fen Pu Shopping area and RaoHe Night Market

2008-09-16T22:55:00.003+08:00

Today had one more full day b4 classes officially start tmr. N Im so glad I finally had the chance to go swim in the indoor swimming pool in my uni. Its quite a nice pool, olympic size and the indoor design is cool. Nice things always come with a price, and we got to pay $2 per entry. Later on in the afternoon went to shop around Wu Fen Pu, the bugis of Taipei haa. But didnt realli buy anything there cos nothing caught my eye. Thinking I shouldn spend too much if I wanna visit my uncle in Shanghai after my semester. Kk, nothing much today but tmr gonna be somthing different. First class at 1030am. Gonna sleep early. Nitez.

2008-09-16T10:12:00.004+08:00

2008-09-16T10:03:00.000+08:00

After a weekend of the tropical storm Sinlaku lashing through Taiwan, now the skies are clear and we can go out without getting wet. Taipei is not badly hit as its not very near the coast and all the warning systems are in place. However for other areas like Hualien and Yilan, they suffered more casualties as they are not as ready for such a huge storm. Anyway by Gods grace, Im safe and sound over here.

Yesterday there was a orientation talk, but most of the things briefed were not regarding us, but more for the full-time students. There was a portion where I actually fell asleep Heh. Later on managed to visit the student centre where all the extra curricular activities are going on. I am still pondering what to join, probably something new and wont take up too much time. Maybe dancing or even baseball? Wanna learn something different while in Taiwan.

Later in the evening went to Taipei 101 shopping area and Shihlin night market again. Had the huge "Ji Pa" ( Fried Chicken Chop) again and one is really enought to fill your stomach. Today got to drink more water in order to prevent myself from getting sore throat. Managed to meet up with the other students from NUS as well, and had a decent time catchin up with them, askin bout how is their uni and dormitory.

Today will be going swimming later around noon and after that going out again. Tmr will be starting classes le, hope I can understand what the lecturer is saying heh.

2008-09-14T23:07:00.006+08:00

Finally I attended a SUnday service at New Life church today. Its a charasmatic church with lots of young ppl. I thoroughly enjoyed the service, from the chinese songs, preaching and drama. The songs were new to me but the lyrics of the songs were relevant, like asking God to be centre of your life, and him being our Help. As for the sermon, it was given by a American pastor who spoke bout the 8 Steps to Heaven.

One of the points which really spoke to me was bout repentance. He mentioned that repetance is not jus turning away from the wrongdoings or actions you commit. Its also about a change of heart. You have to change your thoughts, attitudes as well as actions before you can achieve true repentance. Many a times I am like that, only turning away from the actions, but still hold on to the thoughts.

After the service, there was a mini concert and F.I.R Ah Xin was there too. LAter on we had a Mid Autumn Steamboat where I managed to get to know some of the church members better. To my pleasant surprise, there were quite about 2 Singaporeans who were studying in Taiwan too. Felt veri good speaking and hearing about their testimonies. Totally had a wonderful Sunday in New Life Church. Praise God for this opportunity to get to know Christians from another country. Will be attending there again next Sunday.

Tmr is orientation le and Wednesday my classes are starting. I hope I can cope with the courses and pls pray for me that I can get the modules which I want to take. Thanks. Cya againz.

2008-09-13T09:46:00.002+08:00

2008-09-12T22:59:00.003+08:00

I have already missed going to church for 2 sundays and kinda hope I can attend a service soon. My plans was to attend New Life Church which is near my hostel, and my roommate Sasha also wishes to attend too. However, we did not know anyone from that church and how to get there.

Jus now in the evening, I was walking back from the convenience store after buying some snacks. And I happen to see a group of young people playing some games in one of the blocks. I was curious and so went to take a look. Initially I was about to leave, but somehow I jus felt prompted to ask one of the guys there what activity group or CCA they are from. To my pleasant surprise, they are from New life Church holding a Mid Autumn festival gathering in my university. Its realli Gods timing and plan!

Sang some songs of worship and played some games. I got to know a few seniors from my university and they told me bout life in NTUST. They also told me bout the activites they are having in NEw Life Church and asked me to join them. So this sunday, I will be attending the service at New life Church which is one of the biggest churches in Taipei. Now I am praying hard that the weather wont be so bad that we cant go to this church. :)

2008-09-12T18:29:00.001+08:00

2008-09-12T18:08:00.003+08:00

Its 610pm 12 Sept 2008 in the evening and im in my university hostel, chatting with frens on MSN n jus checking my mail. I also jus checked the news, and latest is that Typhoon Sinlaku is gonna hit Taipei soon. It is travelling from Hualien at high speed winds of 200plus km/h. Have mixed feelings bout this typhoon. A little excited cos first time gonna experience typhoon. Disappointed cos means we might not be able to celebrate Mid Autumn Festivals with the BBQs and gatherings in Taiwan. Was planning to go a Taiwanese friend's place for BBQ, but seems like the plans will have to be shelved. The typhoon will last till Sunday night ba.

Earlier in the day went to send a Msian friend who is working in Singapore off from the Taipei Main station express bus stop. He is taking the express bus to the airport for the flight back to Singapore. Thank God for a friend like him who could click and enjoyed each other presence. His name is Hao Ran and we went to Zhongshan area and Ximen Ding together. He also shared with me bout the environment at work and what to expect next time. So now I must treasure my student life and use it to the fullest.

Spoke to my mum last night over the phone also. Jus wanted to tell her things are realli fine here and no need to worry bout me. Hostel comfortable, food is fanstatic, frens are helpful. Onli thing is weather realli quite unpredictable. Jus like when i went out jogging together finally after 3 weeks, the sky looked ok. But as soon as I started bout 400m, the rain came le. So I returned back to hostel wet n sweaty. Enjoyed the workout though n took the opportunity to familarize with my university. There is a swimming pool and other ball games courts.

Gonna go out soon to buy some dry rations to stock up and get my top up card for my handphone. Cya..:)

2008-09-12T00:05:00.001+08:00

2008-09-11T21:12:00.002+08:00

Today had breakfast with one of the international students and his frens. They are all Indonesian and found out over breakfast that they are all graduate program students, meaning they are doin their Masters. Learned more about their background and reason for coming here. I realised its even more challenging for them to adapt to life in Taiwan due to veri different food n language.

Afternoon went to have lunch with another 2 Msian frens i met in Hualien. Had nice dim sum for lunch and after that I went to shop for a laundry basket and other household essentials heh. Glad i managed to buy what I needed. Evening had dinner nearby NTUST and later on took some photos of my uni campus. I wont say its very new, but it rather aesthetic and pleasant for the eyes ba. Next time will post pics :)

2008-09-11T01:18:00.004+08:00

2008-09-11T01:06:00.004+08:00

2008-09-09T01:42:00.003+08:00

So fast Day 11 n 12 of our pre-school round taiwan trip is coming to an end. Tmr morning we are taking the 930am train back to Taipei to check into our hostel in NTUST. Its been a fulfilling, engaging and memorable 12 days in different parts of Taiwan island. I would say I thoroughly enjoyed myself, no matter which city i was in.

In Hualien, we went to quite a number of places. First day we went to catch the Amei Tribe dance performance. They are realli young, but 18 or 19 years old and they perform to earn some allowance for their school life. Though I wasn planning to buy anything, but I bought a tribal headwear in the end to help aid their cause. After that it was off to a night market where we set of mini fireworks near the beach.

For the 2nd day, we went to Taroko Gorge and stopped by various cliffs and rapids there. The most memorable experience was walking barefoot through one of the caves there, and we experienced how its like being beneath the huge waterfall at Taroko Gorge. The waters seeped right thru the cave and poured down upon us. It was pretty cold but a fun encounter with nature's strength n power. For the night we went to sing karaoke till late as it was our last night together before heading back to our various universities for our orientation n checking into our hostel.

Will update more n post more pics when I settle into my hostel and all. Meanwhile jus to let u all know I be back in Taipei and my contact number is +886 913543707 in case of any emergency.

2008-09-07T01:06:00.002+08:00

2008-09-07T00:15:00.009+08:00

Today was realli one of the most enjoyable days of my life. Highlights include first time doing para-gliding, enjoying hot springs spa, feeding cows, visiting aboriginal village and enjoying Taiwan street snacks. God was wonderful in that he stopped the rain at appropriate times so me and my frens could go ahead with most of the activities we planned to do. OKay, shall let my pictures tell the rest of my story for today. :)

2008-09-06T01:49:00.003+08:00

2008-09-06T01:15:00.007+08:00

After 3 days in Kaohsiung city, finally we are moving on to our next stop in Taitung. The place is bout 2 hours train ride from Kaohsiung and managed to get abit of rest on the way there. Taitung is relatively less developed and its more of a coastal scenic area rather than a city. Its far away and blocked by mountains from the other counties and it gives it a more relaxed n rustic feel.

After some navigation and searching around, we found our accomodation without much hassle. In fact this is the first hotel we are stayin in for our 12days trip. The other places we stayed in so far were either hostels or homestays. Realli glad we could get this hotel in Taitung for a veri cheap rate of bout 20 dollars per night for one person. And there is free wireless Internet so thats y precisely why I can type this entry heh.

To best enjoy the coastal scenery in Eastern Taiwan, we decided to use the bicycles which the hotel provided for free to travel around the coast. Saw so many nice lakes, bridges and sea views. I shall let my pictures tell this part of the trip :) Towards the night we went to walk around the Taitung town to see what nice local delicacies and shops they have. They have similar stuff with others parts of Taiwan but perhaps something different is their Shui Jing Bao which is this delicious bun with vegetable n meat fillings in it. We actualli wanted to go the hot springs today but seems like not enough time today. Tomorrow we'll be renting a car to travel around and to the hot springs in the evening. Gonna be another eventful and happening day tmr :)

2008-09-05T10:16:00.003+08:00

2008-09-05T09:35:00.005+08:00

2008-09-05T01:08:00.002+08:00

Another day jus zoomed past me again. Its so fast and its the end of Day 8 of our Taiwan pre-school round Taiwan trip. We are still at our 5th stop Kaohsiung. ITs the 3rd n last full day we are staying here. Started the morning early when we got up at 830am to prepare n pack our stuff to head towards the southern most part of Taiwan, Kenting Beach.

Took a catered cab service ride to Kenting and the journey was bout 1 hr 45 mins. Good thing we bought abit of snacks n food to eat on the way there as our breakfast cum lunch heh. The taxi driver recommended a water sports shop we can visit over there at a discounted rate. Each of us paid bout 20 sing dollars for snorkeling, speed boating and banana boating. First time doin snorkeling for me and its realli enjoyable n relaxgin seeing the fishes swimming in their natural habitat. THe whole area there is actualli a national protected reserve area, so it was pretty untouched and natural.

AFter snorkeling, we did bout 3 rounds of banana boating which left us feeling pumped up and reeling in the excitement. Although I did banana boating b4, the thrill n high speed adrenalin is still quite enjoyable heh. Wanted to do wakeboarding or windsurfing but they do not have those sports there. Wat a pity. BUt at least i tried my first experience in snorkeling so not totally a wasted trip.

Towards the late afternoon, we walked n shopped around the Kenting Street Town. Lotsa nice souvenirs and beachwear. Soon after a early dinner we headed back to KAohsiung for more night market shopping n walking around the city area. Overall a memorable first visit to Kenting and enjoyable Thursday in southern Taiwan. K need to go pack my stuff soon, cos tmr we are leaving for Taitung le. Taitung here we come!!!! :)

2008-09-04T08:55:00.003+08:00

The first thing new I learnt about Kaohsiung is that it is actually hosting the World Games 2009 in July next year. We actually went to check out the GAmes various venues like the "Ju Dan" ( direct translation Huge Egg") as well as the olympic village park. The whole design and atmosphere of the Games Area was realli fanstatic. Knowing that international sports stars will be gathered there in bout less than a year's time is something quite special.

After checking out the brochures and website, I was amazed by the kind of sports they have at the games, like ultimate frisbee, tug of war, Modern dancing, 7 series Rugby. They have realli interesting games n I would love to see one of the sports at the games if possible. HOwever, the games is in July, and then I will be back in Singapore le heh.

Most the the afternoon was spent at the National Museum of Science n Technology in Kaohsiung city. The whole place is real big la, like about 3 or 4 times bigger than Science Centre. For a cheap entrance fee of $2.40 Sing dollars, we can enjoy all the exhibits of Science, Space, Technology. Industry and Social Matters across 6 different levels. They have reali cool stuff, like an earthquake simulator, space exploration equipment, and even motion sensor games. Definitely worth the 2 dollars plus entrance fee. :)

Towards the evening, we went to another 2 night markets, which are Sin Jiao Jing n Guang Hua night markets. These 2 night markets were relatively smaller in size, and we shopped around there for onli bout 2 hours plus. Didnt buy any clothes or souvenirs but onli got some food stuff. I would say its a fruitful day today, just that it seems like 2 days is enough to explore the main Kaohsiung city.

2008-09-03T02:08:00.006+08:00

Woh after a relaxing 2 nights stay in the high mountains of Alishan, we are heading back into the hot n humid city of Kaohsiung. Transiting back into the packed city area was quite a uncomfortable experience, as we were so used to the cool n nice weather in ALishan. Naturalli, we sweat alot but nonetheless braved the hot weather to explore the many interesting sites of Kaohsiung.

We stayed in an shared apartment with 2 bedrooms. IT onli costs like 15 sing per person per night. Once again IM so grateful to our Lord for providing us with this nice and super cheap

accomodation heh. Places we explored using the bike we rented included Love River, Kaohsiung Harbour, Shi Jin Island, Liu He Night Market and there are jus so many different kinds of food to try n things to buy. I spent quite a fair bit on food n shopping in this colourful city Kaohsiung.

2008-09-03T01:24:00.005+08:00

The 2 nights stay in Alishan was just superb. So thankful that once again we met with nice hosts and they gave us a discounted rate of NT1300 for one night for 3 of us. Which means it onli costs us bout $20 sing dollars per person per night for the comfortable Jap style mini villa heh. We had like all the basic facilities of a house including refrigerator, hot water dispenser, water heater, cooking place, hair dryer. And the best part is we don even need an air con, as the weather is a nice cooling 20 degrees or even lower sometimes :)

The simple way of life in Alishan realli opened up my heart n mind to see that such easily contented ppl realli exists. They onli grow tea leaves or fruits in the high mountains to sell to the locals for a living, and they can make do without the fancy city life like shopping centres, cinemas or even other forms of entertainment. The beauty of Gods creation in the picturesque Alishan also made me feel closer to God and how amazing he has created this land n Earth.

Most of the time in Alishan was spent admiring the scenery in Alishan or walking around the quaint town in Fen Qi Hu which had alot local snacks, small stalls and products. Other than that, we just lazed around in our cosy villa enjoying the nice weather, lazing around watching TV or jus chatting. Oh ya, we went to see the sunrise at Alishan. Woke up at like a crazy timing of 245am, sat a rented car bout one hour up to the higher part of ALishan and took a train ride up to the peak of ALishan. The ride n getting up early was realli worth it as we saw super super nice scenery of the sky, mountains clouds and sun. It was realli a special experience staying in the mountainous areas of Alishan for 2 nights.

2008-09-01T17:12:00.004+08:00

2008-08-30T22:56:00.003+08:00

So fast another day has passed. Realli Thank God for the ways he has helped us today. Earlier in the morning around 930am after we said our goodbyes to the Korean missionary in the Sanwan church, we are planning to take the bus to the train station. However, we found out one of the kids parents in the church can drive us to the train station instead. So God provided for us in ways we cannot imagine.

Later on in the afternoon, we walked around Taichung city, doing abit of shopping n sightseeing. Things are realli a bargain, and I bought 2 shirts n 2 pants at onli less than 20 Sing dollars. Another thing that I have learnt today is to always check the arrival of trains and buses. Reason being they come in 40minutes intervals. So today we wasted quite abit of time waiting for buses. The hostel I am staying in tonight is further away from city, buts its cheaper n quieter. Alright, will be looking forward to Alishan tmr. :)

2008-08-30T00:25:00.003+08:00

29th of August. 2nd day Im in Taiwan. IT was a packed but fulfilling day today. Early in the morning around 10am we went to visit our university at National Taiwan Uni of Sci n Tech. Before that, I heard the my uni was rather old, but it turned out fine. Its slightly bigger the the faculty of Engineering in NUS. We toured around the school and ate a prata cum meat for breakfast. Later in the morning, we went to put our big luggage at Jian Sheng frens place. This is so that we can travel around Taiwan with a more manageable load.

Towards the afternoon, we headed towards Sanwan in Miaoli County by coach. It was a nice and spacious bus. Realli thank God for that trip where we managed to rest for bout 1 hour plus and recharge ourselves more. We met my friend, Esther at the bus interchange and she drove us around the village and town area for sightseeing and market shopping. Enjoyed the town atmosphere of the area, a fresh change from the busy, noisy and hectic city area.

We had delicious beef noodles for dinner and after that went to shop around the Toufen area. Cant believe I had a real bargain as I bought 2 packet of tidbits, 3 packets of wet tissue & 1 bath foam for only less than 5 Sing Dollars. Soon, we headed back to the Sanwan church to rest for the night. Really thank God for providing us with nice weather, comfortable transport and helpful ppl all around us. Will post pictures up soon when I have more time. :)

2008-08-29T00:59:00.003+08:00

2008-08-29T00:28:00.003+08:00

Hey everyone I have reached Taipei safely le. Thanks for all the prayers n all. Right now staying in a hostel near a university. So far so good, transit been smooth n people are helpful. But I will stay vigilant as I am still in a foreign land n cannot take things for granted. After all our luggage were placed in our hostel, its already bout 8plus. So we took a walk down to the night market where he had our late dinner. Eat from different stalls in the night market for dinner. It was yummy. Had chicken chop pieces, Thai BBQ chicken rice and bubble tea. Was real full for it. Kk, I shall let the pictures tell my story so I can go rest soon heh :)

2008-08-27T09:11:00.002+08:00

One more day to my departure to Taiwan. I have already packed most of my stuff. Thanks to the training in army, I have learnt the art of being compact and squeezing into one luggage. This is the picture of the main luggage bag Im bringing, besides 2 other hand carry bags.

Feeling a little excited, and trying to keep an open mind as to what I will experience there, be it good or bad. For the first 10 days of my time in Taiwan, I will travelling all around Taiwan, together with a few other fellow friends who are going there for exchange. Earlier in the day went to have a jog in order to build up my stamina for the backpacking around Taiwan. Heh. Yup, lets hope that I didnt forget to bring any important thing over to Taiwan :)

2008-08-26T12:28:00.003+08:00

A map of the campus over in Taipei. Dont be mistaken, my university is not the one in the nice blue, pink colours haha. Thats National Taiwan university, the best uni in taiwan. Mine is the one Opposite, in white colour. NAtional Taiwan uni of sci n tech, also not bad ba, one of the better technology unis in Taiwan. I can actually walk to GongGuan MRT station in bout 15 mins time, from what i heard from senior who went b4.