Interesting Green

What retirement living should be

2012-02-18T20:54:00.004+08:00

Today, Saturday, Feburary 18, 2012, Page 18, Voices
From http://imcmsimages.mediacorp.sg/CMSFileserver/documents/006/PDF/20120218/1802VOC018.pdf
Source Website: http://www.todayonline.com/Voices/EDC120218-0000065/What-retirement-living-should-be
Letter from Julia Ng, 04:46 AM Feb 18, 2012

PHOTO: The Village at NorthRidge an Extraordinary Option in Senior Living.

By Staff on May 6th, 2009
http://tolucantimes.info/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/t20-08-village-at-northridge-2.jpg
http://tolucantimes.info/cover_story/banner-story/the-village-at-northridge-an-extraordinary-option-in-senior-living/

IT IS encouraging to see in recent years that the Government has been restructuring the healthcare system in view of the ageing population.

There is also a compelling need to rethink the delivery of retirement living options beyond health-related nursing homes, daycare centres, etc.

Besides the impoverished and sickly seniors who undeniably deserve the attention of our healthcare system and community aid schemes, those who are healthier and more financially independent have different needs to age successfully.

While an ageing population is a challenge, it also creates new economic opportunities. Property developers should pay heed to this growth area.

PHOTO: Stunning waterfront surroundings and magnificent Mediterranean architecture are the framework in which you can paint your own customized retirement lifestyle.
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aN8hKb57W94/Tz-jeOZit7I/AAAAAAAAROk/EbR2CAb7t08/s1600/sarasota-bay-club-independent-retirement-living-florida_4.jpg

http://unitedstates.amnxpress.com/images/2011/09/08/42/sarasota-bay-club-independent-retirement-living-florida_4.jpg
http://unitedstates.amnxpress.com/others/services/sarasota-bay-club-independent-retirement-living-florida-42.htm

The newly ageing populace will have a different profile from most of our elderly now. The former are in their 50s today, and most would be well-educated and relatively financially independent by the time they hit retirement.

They are not likely to require round-the-clock nursing home care. Their key concern, whether married, single, child-free or otherwise, is to grow old actively and gracefully.

Their aspiration is for individual, non-institutionalised living within a communal setting. They do not want to be dependent on their children and understand their children's need for their own space.

They will reshape the traditional notions of ageing. They want more retirement living options that would better cater to their need for easy access to care while remaining independent.

PHOTO: Independent retirement living. The key concern, whether married, single, child-free or otherwise, is to grow old actively and gracefully.
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9Q9_3RWB7Ms/Tz-jdpwMmyI/AAAAAAAAROc/1CYfb4qDsMA/s1600/sarasota-bay-club-independent-retirement-living-florida_1.jpg

http://unitedstates.amnxpress.com/images/2011/09/08/42/sarasota-bay-club-independent-retirement-living-florida_1.jpg
http://unitedstates.amnxpress.com/others/services/sarasota-bay-club-independent-retirement-living-florida-42.htm

Their expectations are not about daycare centres or 30-year-lease studio flats. Having travelled more and exposed to the finer things in life and life's choices, they expect no less a quality of lifestyle as they step into retirement.

A key component of this would be a decent range of retirement living options, which is sorely missing now. The new agers' expectation of a retirement village or community would be a menu of homes, tailored to price and affordability.

Facilities expected may include a well-being centre, exercise facilities, library, swimming pool, hair salon, cafe, security, emergency back-up, communal lounge, mini gardens and guest suites where relatives can stay for a fee.

PHOTO: Active retirement living, mini gardens and guest suites where relatives can stay.
http://raystown.org/assets/images/MemberPages/WestminsterWoods.jpg
http://raystown.org/community/westminster-woods-retirement-community.html

The social interactions made possible within such a community concept would provide an ideal environment for active retirement. The families of these senior residents would want to visit, too.

Such retirement villages would not become cut off from society, and older people would be unlikely to end up alone.

PHOTO: Ideal environment for active retirement like walking through the park.

http://www.laufmerksam.de/images/laufmerksam/2944397_l.jpg
http://www.laufmerksam.de/

I hope the Government would work with developers and perhaps incentivise businesses to establish bustling residential centres or communities for the new generation of active, elderly Singaporeans.

Hopefully, there will not come a day when the bulk of the more affluent agers are retiring in neighbouring countries.

Letter from Julia Ng, 04:46 AM Feb 18, 2012

PHOTO: Mulan (zhao wei and chen kun) - social interactions made possible within such a community concept would provide an ideal environment for active retirement.

Posted by yen zhi on May 19, 2009, 09:34:23 PM
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DZale2al-dw/Tz-j_-6DJTI/AAAAAAAARO8/5Kg3bP1panM/s1600/119-vi.jpg
http://images47.fotki.com/v1484/photos/4/42815/141388/119-vi.jpg
http://www.lautanindonesia.com/forum/index.php?topic=30265.20

Reference

When tomorrow starts without me by David M. Ramano

2012-02-16T14:39:00.007+08:00

Source Website: http://lifeinthot.blogspot.com/2011/09/you-cannot-do-kindness-too-soon-for-you.html
By Padmaja Duvvuri in Life is full of thoughts, Tuesday, September 13, 2011
~ David M. Romano ~ Copyright © 1993

PHOTO: If tomorrow starts without me and I’m not there to see.

Posted by Padmaja Duvvuri in Life is full of thoughts, Tuesday, September 13, 2011

"I still find each day too short for all the thoughts I want to think, all the walks I want to take, all the books I want to read, and all the friends I want to see."
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cQ88-yxEZ64/Tzyprdb4cvI/AAAAAAAARNk/2PHNiLxZkjs/s1600/3b00b86f3161914221a23d94144a1e48.jpg

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dX3pG3visGo/Tm8ngedsdbI/AAAAAAAAFT4/LzwA2yhSo6A/s1600/3b00b86f3161914221a23d94144a1e48.jpg
http://lifeinthot.blogspot.com/2011/09/you-cannot-do-kindness-too-soon-for-you.html

If you really have friends who you appreciate… tell them. Maybe they appreciate you as well. That if you don’t and they leave or go far away today, tomorrow may be too late.

One day my mails to you may stop, my blogs may have no more posts and I may become silent.

If tomorrow starts without me and I’m not there to see, If the sun should rise and find your eyes filled with tears for me; I wish you wouldn’t cry so much, the way I did today, while thinking of the many things, I didn't get to say to you.

PHOTO: When Tomorrow Starts Without Me, I’d have to leave behind all those I dearly love.

http://imagecache5d.allposters.com/watermarker/10-1010-TMYW000Z.jpg
http://www.inspirationalposter.org/poster-54817-913508/angel-peace-art-print/

Instead, when tomorrow starts without me, understand that an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand; she said my place was ready, in heaven far above and that I’d have to leave behind all those I dearly love.

I thought of all the yesterdays, the good ones and the bad; I thought of all the love we shared and all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while; I’d want to wish you the good luck and best of everything and maybe see you smile. But then I fully realized that this could never be, for emptiness and memories would take the place of me;

PHOTO: ".... there were times you did some things, you knew you shouldn’t do. But you have been forgiven and now at last you’re free of your sins”

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1LG2DUSc6fU/ThNdRaeT0wI/AAAAAAAAABg/nQl5G7RyiYg/s1600/jesus-light-bird.jpg
http://jesusisthelightmission.blogspot.com/

When I walked through Heaven’s Gates, I felt so much at home.

God looked down and smiled at me, from his great golden throne, He said, “Today your life on earth is past but here life starts anew. I promise no tomorrow but today will always last; and since each day’s the same way there’s no longing for the past. You have been so faithful, so trusting and so true; though there were times you did some things, you knew you shouldn’t do. But you have been forgiven and now at last you’re free of your sins”

So when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart, for every time you think of me, I’m right here in your heart…

~ David M. Romano ~ Copyright © 1993
By Padmaja Duvvuri in Life is full of thoughts, Tuesday, September 13, 2011

PHOTO: If you really have friends who you appreciate… tell them. Maybe they appreciate you as well. That if you don’t and they leave or go far away today, tomorrow may be too late.

http://file.gazogazo.blog.shinobi.jp/erika_toda-661.jpg
http://gazogazo.blog.shinobi.jp/Date/20110419/

PHOTO: Fairy and Swordsman - Zhao Ling’er released for Chinese Paladin.
"... I promise no tomorrow but today will always last; and since each day’s the same way there’s no longing for the past. ..."

Posted on 13 May 2008, Promotional artwork of Zhao Ling’er
http://chinesepaladin.org/images/pics/promo_23.jpg
http://chinesepaladin.org/

PHOTO: If tomorrow starts without me and I’m not there to see.

Posted by Padmaja Duvvuri in Life is full of thoughts, Tuesday, September 13, 2011

The perfect Hainanese pork chop!

2012-02-14T20:29:00.004+08:00

Source Website: http://food.insing.com/feature/the-perfect-hainanese-pork-chop/id-01223f00
By Julia Khoo, inSing.com

PHOTO: Hainanese pork chop
http://staticc03.insing.com/images/39/66/0f/00/pc_600x450.jpg

Hainanese pork chop – a distinctly localised Westernised dish – has its roots in English pork chops with apple sauce, but resembles nothing like the original version. The talented Hainanese cooks, who were employed by the colonial British, put their own spin on this English dish and came up with their own unique version.

How do you recognise an authentic Hainanese pork chop? The first sign is the use of crushed cream crackers for the coating of the pork chop. Other features include fried potato slices, peas, and sweet-tangy onion-based gravy.

We visited five old-time Hainanese eating establishments for this taste test. Which one serves the best Hainanese pork chops?

Yet Con Chicken Rice & Restaurant EDITOR’S PICK!
25 Purvis Street
Opening hours: Daily: 11am-9:30pm
Price: $10.00
Rating: 5/5

PHOTO: Yet Con Chicken Rice & Restaurant - EDITOR’S PICK!
http://img.insing.com/FoodDrink/tried-tested/T&T-hainanese-porkchop-yetcon.jpg

Our search for the holy grail of Hainanese pork chop ends here! Yet Con’s version is both authentic and flawlessly executed.

Pounded till neither too thin nor too thick, the pork is super tender with a lovely bite. The meat is tastily marinated, yet not too salty. Fragrant and delicate, the crust is made from old-fashioned crushed cream crackers. Beneath the pork chop slices are fried potato slices.

What stands out most is the sauce for the chops. Simmered from scratch, this is the authentic brown gravy flavoured with HP steak sauce. One can also detect a gentle kiss of ginger as well as the sweetness of onion.

Sweet, tangy and savoury – the gravy is robust, complex and perfectly balanced. The consistency is also just right.

Yet Con’s Hainanese pork chop may not score high in the looks department. But make no mistake, this is the real deal!

Golden Mile Thien Kee Steamboat Restaurant
6001 Beach Road, #B1-20 Golden Mile Tower
Opening hours: Daily: 11am-9:30pm
Price: $10.00
Rating: 4/5

PHOTO: Golden Mile Thien Kee Steamboat Restaurant - Thick and meaty.

http://img.insing.com/FoodDrink/tried-tested/T&T-hainanese-porkchop-thienkee.jpg

Thick and meaty, Thien Kee’s Hainanese pork chop is hearty and rustic.

Although the pork chop is quite thick, the meat is surprisingly tender and moist. The crust is also rather thick and crunchy, which prevents it from getting soggy too quickly in the sauce.

With a rich tomato base, the sauce has a strong presence of garlic and onion. We like its bold flavours, but the texture is too starchy for our preference. Despite that, Thien Kee’s Hainanese pork chop remains one of the better versions we’ve tried and tested.

Prince Coffee House
249 Beach Road
Opening hours: Daily: 11am-9pm
Price: $6.80++ for one person rice set
Rating: 3.5/5

PHOTO: Prince Coffee House - Juicy on the inside and lightly crisp on the outside, the pork cutlet is easy to the bite.

http://img.insing.com/FoodDrink/tried-tested/T&T-hainanese-porkchop-prince.jpg

Prince’s rendition doesn’t look as traditional as Yet Con’s, but it is still a more than decent Hainanese pork chop.

Juicy on the inside and lightly crisp on the outside, the pork cutlet is easy to the bite. We suspect the meat may have had some help from tenderiser.

Intense in flavour with bold tartness, the bright red sauce is ketchup-based. A generous amount of sautéed onions add aroma and sweetness. Mixed veggies and fries make up the rest of this not-so-authentic but appealing dish.

YY Kafei Dian BEST VALUE
37 Beach Road, #01-01
Opening hours: Daily: 8am – 10:30pm
Price: $6.00
Rating: 3.5/5

PHOTO: YY Kafei Dian - BEST VALUE
http://img.insing.com/FoodDrink/tried-tested/T&T-hainanese-porkchop-yykafeidian.jpg

YY Kafei Dian’s pork chop dish looks more Western than Hainanese in presentation. It is composed of just three elements – pork chop, crinkle-cut fries, and tomato sauce – but each one is nicely executed.

What we were most impressed with was the pork chop. They use pork loin with some fat. The meat is deliciously juicy with good bite. Evenly coated, the crust is beautifully thin and crispy, though a little greasy. The sliced pork chop is carefully propped up so that it doesn’t get soggy from the sauce.

Intensely sweet and rich, the ‘ketchupy’ sauce has a hint of chilli. It goes well with the pork chop and crispy fries.

Although YY Kafei Dian’s Hainanese pork chop is quite different from the classic version, it is very likeable.

Chin Chin Eating House
19 Purvis Street
Opening hours: Daily: 11am – 9pm
Price: $6.00
Rating: 2/5

PHOTO: Chin Chin Eating House - The pork chop is served with fried potato pieces and canned peas.

http://img.insing.com/FoodDrink/tried-tested/T&T-hainanese-porkchop-chinchin.jpg

Chin Chin’s version has all the elements of a classic Hainanese pork chop, but it is extremely lacking in execution.

Coated in cream cracker crumbs, the crust is disappointing soggy. The meat itself is dry and stringy. As for the tomato sauce, it is rather bland and lacks a distinctive identity.

The pork chop is served with fried potato pieces and canned peas. Although the presentation is old-school, this is one Hainanese pork chop that fails to appeal.

By Julia Khoo, inSing.com

inSing.com made anonymous visits and paid its own meals at the eateries featured here.

Comment:
Maureen Tan

"I tried Chin Chin..one of my fav eating places...value for money...mUst try the iced lemon tea and sweet sour pork!"

Reference

The Singleton Guide to Valentine’s Day

2012-02-14T16:57:00.005+08:00

From: inSing.com - Event
Source Website: http://events.insing.com/feature/the-singleton-guide-to-valentine-s-day/id-f22d3f00
By Zul Andra, entertainment writer for Time Out Singapore, The New Paper and inSing.com

PHOTO: You need to be with someone; it kind of works that way, ahead of Valentine’s Day.

http://staticc02.insing.com/images/81/77/0f/00/pc_600x450.jpg

Alone, depressed and had enough of your emotional relationship with things like video games and ice-cream?

It’s no fun being single unless you’re distilled malt.

Coupled with Singapore’s current all-time low fertility rate at 8.5 (that’s birth per 1,000 citizens mind you), there’s a demand for you to go out there and make some babies.

But before you start googling for awesome kid names, you need to be with someone; it kind of works that way.

Ahead of Valentine’s Day, here are some sure-fire tips to find and/or get on the official status with that partner of your choosing.

PHOTO: Dating in the Social Media Age
http://img.insing.com/events/images/2012/v-day-4-free/singles-guide-2.jpg

Online to offline

As they say, there are many fishes in the sea, and with 8 billion users on Facebook and 300 million on Twitter, that’s a lot of aquatic, cold-blooded creatures. Look at your Facebook chat or Twitter thread, is there someone that you’ve been constantly having a conversation with? Now’s the time to make the move; lest you have to take a flight then don’t bother.

But before you poke them, spruce up your profile. First, publish your gender, it really helps trying to figure out if you are a male, female, or a robot. Then change your profile picture to something more personal that speak of your character and not a picture of your beloved pet, your vehicle, or your favourite botany as no one dates those.

Once that is done, get rid of any details of your previous relationships. Finally, put your best curriculum vitae (overview of a person's experience and other qualifications) forward. If you work in garbage, leave that out, unless it’s Garbage, the band.

Happiness from the bottom of a glass

Your advances online made you feel worse than Lindsey Lohan (whose Tweets rarely gets replied in the celebrity circle these day)? Poor thing. Tell you what; raise the bar of your game, at well, a bar. Brush off those who lack inebriated (make drunk; intoxicate) wisdom when they say you can’t find happiness after downing a keg. Just like there’s a place for everyone in this world, yours is at a watering hole. It all depends on what you are looking for.

PHOTO: Sexy bars for first dates
http://staticc05.insing.com/images/34/5a/0f/00/pc_600x450.jpg

Here’s a list of bars for both men and women:

Men looking for …
Sugar mommy:
They have expensive taste and very much into your boyish charms. They can be found in places like Drink Culture, Mink and sometimes at (for heaven sakes, no) Velvet Underground.

Barely legal:

Appearance may deceive. They look above 21 but underneath all that M.A.C. they haven’t got a clue what C.P.F stands for. These wild young things get drunk before 11pm (curfew, hello) usually at Zirca and The Butter Factory.

Bikini babes:

Tanjong Beach Club looks like it’s the production location of choice for a bikini commercial. Best to go before the chicks rub sunblock on themselves, because that’s where you’ll come in handy, you handyman you. If you’re looking for mature women or bikini aunties (if you’re into that), Coastes comes to mind.

Also on inSing: Sexy bars for first dates
(http://events.insing.com/feature/5-sexy-bars-for-first-dates/id-972d3f00)

Women looking for…
Top 10% local earners:

Though most of them might have their own in-house bar, or whose idea of a night out is at Puerto Rico, a few might be found at B28, Filter and the lounge area of Velvet Underground.

Bad boys:

They live by no rules and hard to catch. These rebellious stags are always having a pint at places like Home Club, Blu Jaz and St James Power Station.

Stray cats:

Aww! Really? Wild Oats at Emily Hill and the back alleys of Boat Quay has a whole petting zoo for you.

PHOTO: Looking for love in all the wrong places
http://img.insing.com/events/images/2012/v-day-4-free/singles-guide-1.jpg

Find love in a hopeless place

Rihanna is right (yeah, right), that sometimes you can find love in a hopeless place. Whether expressing yourself through a painting, rocking it out like a madman at a music fest, or shooting a gun, chances are, this could be your last.

At Arteastiq’s Art Jam (#04-14/15 Mandarin Gallery, 333 Orchard Rd; 6235 8705, www.arteastiq.com), you get free painting materials and piping hot tea to work on your masterpiece. Chat up with other amateur artists and paint a nice picture of yourself in their minds.

Prefer to appreciate others’ artistic expression instead? Laneway Festival may be the ideal place where the soundtrack of your new found love can be found.

Also on inSing: Most romantic hotel stay
(http://events.insing.com/feature/most-romantic-hotel-stays/id-4d2d3f00)

PHOTO: Let dating agencies like, It’s Just Lunch , Lunch Actually and The Dating Loft find your perfect match.

http://staticc04.insing.com/images/85/59/0f/00/pc_600x450.jpg

Or who knows, cupid might just be at Singapore Gun Club (National Shooting Centre, 990 Old Choa Chu Kang Rd; 6466 1575 www.singaporegunclub.com) to sort out you and your potential partner. Go for clay target practice with a shotgun ($65/person with 25 rounds) or fire on target boards with a pistol ($175/person with 100 rounds) with an instructor on hand to guide beginners.

Seek professional help

Perhaps the reason for your lack of progress is that your love life resides in a hermit kingdom thanks to your busy schedule. While you live vicariously through romantic novels and films -which you apparently have time for- let dating agencies like, It’s Just Lunch , Lunch Actually and The Dating Loft find your perfect match.

Memberships start from $1,000 depending on your profile and what you are looking for. Once the interviews and profiling are out of the way, the agencies will set up a lunch date or invite you to a private event where you’ll meet your potential partner. From there, you choose to continue seeing the person or whip out the “It’s not you, it’s me” card and head on for more solo nights with yourself.

Book yourself in

OK, so you rather read to prepare yourself for that big date. That’s fine, it starts with you anyway. “Codependency For Dummies” might pique your interest especially if you found out much later that that person of your dreams is suffering from an addiction or is basically dysfunctional. Ladies, are you looking to snag your own Edward of Jacob?

Also on inSing: V-Day on the cheap
(http://events.insing.com/feature/best-places-to-celebrate-v-day-for-free/id-962d3f00)

PHOTO: The hapless singleton, single and ready to mingle.
By Daily Mail Reporter, Last updated at 10:09 AM on 16th July 2009
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/07/15/article-0-003B2C4300000258-116_468x502.jpg
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1199882/Renee-Zellweger-pile-pounds-Bridget-Jones-returns-installment.html

Filled with pop psychology, “Twilight, True Love and You: Seven Secret Steps to Finding Your Edward or Jacob” will help you get out of the Twilight Zone and into the Twilight realm to find your ideal blood thirsty vampires and werewolves with abs.

On a more serious note, “Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love” exercises the use of emotionally focused therapy – developed some 20 years ago - to create a long, effective and productive relationship. But don’t just read, go out and take action. And don’t boast about your intellectualism, it’s really sad that you are sleeping with a self-help book.

By Zul Andra, entertainment writer for Time Out Singapore, The New Paper and inSing.com

Zul Andra is an entertainment writer currently writing for Time Out Singapore, The New Paper and inSing.com, he also maintains a column in Juice magazine. Contrary to popular beliefs, he is not a party animal. His lifelong ambition is to make the perfect omelette.

PHOTO: Always looking for love: Renee with Hugh Grant, who played Daniel Cleaver, in 2004's Bridget Jones: The Edge Of Reason

By Daily Mail Reporter, Last updated at 10:09 AM on 16th July 2009
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/07/15/article-1199882-01C3C7970000044D-150_468x388.jpg
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1199882/Renee-Zellweger-pile-pounds-Bridget-Jones-returns-installment.html

PHOTO: Get out of the Twilight Zone and into the Twilight realm to find your ideal blood thirsty vampires and werewolves with abs.

http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/333/orangerosesroseflowerpi.jpg
http://www.meraforum.com/showthread.php?p=561125

Reference

Care centres for the elderly - Why Complain?

2012-02-14T14:05:00.004+08:00

Today, Monday, February 13, 2012, Page 16, Voices
From http://imcmsimages.mediacorp.sg/CMSFileserver/documents/006/PDF/20120213/1302SGC016.pdf
Source Website:
http://www.todayonline.com/Voices/EDC120213-0000015/Care-centres-for-the-elderly-Why-complain? (Texts)
http://www.aarhus.dk/da/sitecore/content/Subsites/CityOfAarhus/Home/activityareas/Family-and-health/Elderly-Care.aspx (Photos)
http://www.squidoo.com/heartprints (Photos)
By Tabitha Wang, 04:45 AM Feb 13, 2012

PHOTO: A Dream: quality housing facilities in the local residential and activity centres for the elderly.

http://www.aarhus.dk/~/media/Fotos-og-film/Borgmesterens-Afdeling/UK-hjemmeside/Portraetter-kontaktpersoner/Claus-Rasmussensvoem.ashx
http://www.aarhus.dk/da/sitecore/content/Subsites/CityOfAarhus/Home/activityareas/Family-and-health/Elderly-Care.aspx

I don't know what the residents of Blocks 860 and 861, Woodlands Street 83, have to complain about.

If I were living there, I would welcome having a daycare centre for the elderly in my void deck - because that means I will never have to leave my neighbourhood when I start losing my memory and bladder control.

Imagine the bliss 20 or 30 years on, when all I have to do is totter downstairs for my meals, entertainment and conversation. The same old faces, the same sundry shop...

Humans are creatures of habit. And as we age, we get more and more set in our ways.

My husband's offer of a transfer to Hong Kong came when I was in my mid-30s and even then I had to think long and hard about the move. If it had come in my 20s, I no doubt would have been packed and at Changi by the next morning.

There were so many things I'd have to leave behind - not just family and friends but familiar food and places. I'd have to start all over again to find new favourites and make new friends.

It was a scary prospect. Think of how much scarier it would be if you were in your 70s and had to move to somewhere that could offer you better eldercare.

PHOTO: The Seeker
".... Helping An Old Man:
I clothed an elderly man, and gave
Him shelter from the cold,
The trembling smile upon his lips,
Was lovely to behold.

I Have Found It:

My questing heart was filled with joy,
I came to understand,
Each time I helped someone in need,
I touched the Master's hand."
By Julie E. Jones, Poems of Inspiration
http://i1.squidoocdn.com/resize/squidoo_images/590/draft_lens7631802module64040072photo_1270703173for_my_friend.gif
http://www.squidoo.com/heartprints

My parents resisted moving in with my brother and sister-in-law for close to 10 years. It was only after my father had his angioplasty (a procedure used to open blocked or narrowed coronary (heart) arteries) and collapsed in the house with only my mother in attendance that they grudgingly agreed to take up residence in the spare bedroom.

They were only in their 60s then but, having lived in the same house for 30-odd years, they had huge difficulties adapting - especially my dad, who missed his friends.

The two places weren't far apart. My dad could, if he wanted to, drive to meet his friends at their usual kopitiam every day. But the traffic and driving wore him down and after his second angioplasty, the doctor warned him to take it easy. So no more daily drives for him.

Every day, he'd listlessly walk in the garden for a bit but then everything became too much effort. He started talking about being useless and us having to prepare for his dying. Thanks to his new grandson, though, he's started to find new interest in life again.

PHOTO: TO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED
" ...... I am looking past my circumstances, to Heaven's throne above........"
By Eric Geoffrey Plott, Poems of Inspiration
http://i3.squidoocdn.com/resize/squidoo_images/590/draft_lens7631802module151984509photo_1312180321blessed1.jpg
http://www.squidoo.com/heartprints

I used to live in Tanjong Pagar, the GRC with the highest number of older HDBs. The block I was living in was built in the 1960s.

Despite the fact that the mature estate had become yuppified, many of the original inhabitants were still around.

This meant that almost every week, there would be a funeral in the void deck. I'd come home to red paper stuck above the lift buttons and chrysanthemum tea packets strewn all over.

PHOTO: When Tomorrow Starts Without Me
"..... But as I turned to walk away,
A tear fell from my eye,
For all my life, I'd always thought,
I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for,
So much yet to do,
It seemed almost impossible,
That I was leaving you...."
By Author Unknown, Poems of Inspiration
http://i1.squidoocdn.com/resize/squidoo_images/590/draft_lens7631802module86163131photo_1267164266when_tomorrow_starts_with
http://www.squidoo.com/heartprints

Some of the residents would grumble about tracking bad luck to their door but it wouldn't be much more than a half-hearted moan. Most actually liked the feeling of continuity.

You could walk downstairs and talk to an Ah Pek about the days when residents marvelled at having running water in their flats. "Ah Gu's son became a mechanic and married Ah Ying's daughter who trained as a beautician and look, that's their son, all dressed up in his nice uniform going to National Service," he'd say.

PHOTO: Without You
"...... The wounds will heal in time,
Lives will go on, yours and mine.
My Lord will help me through,
Help me find my way without you.

And Life Goes On!"
By Melva, Poems of Inspiration
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6nkPvMlLJoQ/TzoCcoJsi6I/AAAAAAAARJQ/MVMKvCWNBJU/s1600/draft_lens7631802module64245972photo_1270704331Gethsemane-1.gif.jpg
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In Hong Kong recently, there was news about an elderly couple who had to be separated after being married for 50 years because the wife, who was senile, had to go into a nursing home. They didn't have space for the husband.

His dilemma was whether to accept the enforced separation or refuse the place and continue trying to look after her despite being feeble himself. It was the saddest story.

About a week ago, the Hong Kong Housing Society launched Joyous Living, a retirement scheme for affluent senior citizens who pay upfront to live in an elder-friendly environment.

PHOTO: Welcome to 2012. This is going to be an exciting and busy year. We are looking forward to the new year and all the promise it holds as we walk with our Lord and Saviour throughout the year.

".... Faith in the Word, though some folks call you a fool,
I wish you Faith for this coming new year......... "
From: Poems of Inspiration
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L1EkVgq0dbU/TzoDUUwSJ-I/AAAAAAAARJ0/fJbb3rJ_K3Q/s1600/draft_lens7631802module156585373photo_1327541289jesusletthechildrenshine-.jpg
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Response has been lukewarm. Given a choice, I guess people would rather live in the old-fashioned but familiar home they've had for 50-odd years than move to a modern, unfamiliar place.

Everyone grows old, there's no escaping that. So isn't it great to know that if you lived in Blocks 860 and 861, you'll never have to deal with moving house and making new friends?

By Tabitha Wang, 04:45 AM Feb 13, 2012

Tabitha Wang lives in Hong Kong but still dreams of retiring in a nice little HDB flat in Singapore.

PHOTO: Never Worry
".... Never worry, enjoy this beautiful day
Forget frustrations, let them slip away
Fill this day with happiness and love
Thank God for all blessings from above."
By Glenn M. Baugh, Poems of Inspiration
http://i3.squidoocdn.com/resize/squidoo_images/590/draft_lens7631802module64040102photo_1270702983flying_ducks.jpg
http://www.squidoo.com/heartprints

PHOTO: Everyone grows old, there's no escaping that.

Angel of Peace by Joyce Birkenstock - "InspirationalPoster.org provides the motivational and inspirational posters needed to help every person inspire his self and reach his full potential. Inspiration and motivation have always been integral components in the long term success of any winner. Staying determined, focused and committed to any goal are the traits of a winner. InspirationalPoster.org gives the posters to restore confidence, motivate self and be more creative...."

http://imagecache5d.allposters.com/watermarker/10-1010-TMYW000Z.jpg
http://www.inspirationalposter.org/poster-54817-913508/angel-peace-art-print/

Reference

With Web and Wealth, Living Alone But Not Lonely

2012-02-13T10:56:00.009+08:00

The New York Times, Sunday, February 12, 2012, Page 1 & 7, Opinion, World trends
From http://imcmsimages.mediacorp.sg/CMSFileserver/documents/006/PDF/20120212/1202NYC040.pdf
Article selected for Today, A Publication of MediaCorp
By ERIC KLINENBERG, Copyright © 2012 The New York Times

PHOTO: With Web and Wealth, Living alone, not Lonely
Copyright © 2012 The New York Times
The New York Times, Sunday, February 12, 2012, Page 1 & 7, Opinion, World trends

The thought of living alone once sparked anxiety and visions of loneliness. But now the most privileged people on earth use their resources to buy privacy and personal space.

More people live alone than at any other time in history.

In Paris, the city of lovers, more than half of all households contain single people, and in socialist Stockholm, the rate tops 60 percent.

The decision to live alone is common in diverse cultures whenever it is economically feasible. Although Americans pride themselves on their self-reliance and culture of individualism, Germany, France and Britain have a greater proportion of one-person households than the United States, as does Japan. Three of the nations with the fastest-growing populations of single people — China, India and Brazil — are also among those with the fastest growing economies.

PHOTO: More on Their Own in America .....

Sources: analysis by Susan Weber and Andrew Beveridge, Queens College, CUNY, from historical and current census data; Euromonitor International (households abroad)

BILL MARSH AND AMANDA COX/THE NEW YORK TIMES
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EEp4fRQbbYk/TziHHzoYQqI/AAAAAAAARGo/MKl_096CSMk/s1600/More%2Bon%2BTheir%2BOwn%2Bin%2BAmerica.jpg

The New York Times, Sunday, February 12, 2012, Page 7, Opinion, World trends

PHOTO: ..... And Even More Aboard

Sources: analysis by Susan Weber and Andrew Beveridge, Queens College, CUNY, from historical and current census data; Euromonitor International (households abroad)
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3DfBm0jE3Jk/TziHHr-AmTI/AAAAAAAARGg/k9LqWF92I8M/s1600/And%2BEven%2BMore%2BAboard.jpg

BILL MARSH AND AMANDA COX/THE NEW YORK TIMES

The New York Times, Sunday, February 12, 2012, Page 7, Opinion, World trends

Living alone promotes freedom, personal control and self-realization — all prized aspects of contemporary (belonging to the same period of time) life.

And living alone no longer suggests an isolated or less-social life. After interviewing more than 300 people who live alone during nearly a decade of research, I’ve concluded that living alone seems to encourage more, not less, social interaction.

PHOTO: Paradoxically (seemingly contradictory statement that may nonetheless be true), our species, has been able to increase its solo living because global societies have become so interdependent.

http://www.saudizoom.com/members/%D5%E6%D1-%CC%CF%ED%CF%C9-albums-new-pictures-picture447-p3.jpg
http://forum.jsoftj.com/t214382.html

Paradoxically (seemingly contradictory statement that may nonetheless be true), our species, so long defined by groups and by the nuclear family, has been able to increase its solo living because global societies have become so interdependent. Dynamic markets, flourishing cities and open communications systems make modern autonomy more appealing; they give us the capacity to live alone but to engage with others when and how we want to.

In fact, living alone can make it easier to be social, because single people have more free time, absent family obligations, to engage in social activities.

PHOTO: Living alone can make it easier to be social, killing loneliness.

If we have chosen the position in life in which we can most of all work for mankind, no burdens can bow us down, because they are sacrifices for the benefit of all; then we shall experience no petty, limited, selfish joy, but our happiness will belong to millions, our deeds will live on quietly but perpetually at work, and over our ashes will be shed the hot tears of noble people.

Posted on Tuesday, March 24, 2009
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http://loveofegypt.blogspot.com/2009/03/killing-loneliness.html

Single people are more likely than married ones to spend time with friends and neighbors, go to restaurants and attend art classes and lectures. Erin Cornwell, a sociologist at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, analyzed results from the General Social Survey (which draws on a nationally representative sample of the United States population) from 2000 to 2008 and found that single people 35 and older were more likely than those who lived with a spouse or a romantic partner to spend a social evening with neighbors or friends.

In 2008, her husband, Benjamin Cornwell (also a sociologist at Cornell), was lead author of a paper in the American Sociological Review that showed that single seniors had the same number of friends as their married peers and were more likely to socialize.

Surveys also indicate that married parents are more likely than single people to stay at home. Those in large suburban homes often splinter into private rooms to be alone.The image of a modern family in a room together, each member plugged into a smartphone, computer, video game or TV show has become a cultural cliché.

PHOTO: The Internet opens up a world of people, information and ideas, and does not seem to cut people off from real friendships and connections, Our Family, Friends and Health.

http://i1.squidoocdn.com/resize/squidoo_images/590/draft_lens7631802module90340821photo_1270699639fishing1.gif
http://www.squidoo.com/heartprints

New communications technologies make living alone a social experience, so being home alone does not feel like solitary confinement. The Internet opens up a world of people, information and ideas, and does not seem to cut people off from real friendships and connections.

Today five million people in the United States between ages 18 and 34 live alone, 10 times more than in 1950.

But the largest number of single people are middle-aged; 15 million people between ages 35 and 64 live alone.

PHOTO: Older single people expressed a clear preference for living alone, which allowed them to retain their feelings of independence and integrity.
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http://poesiasdelcorazon.centerblog.net/rub-mes-creas-.html

Those who decide to live alone said in interviews that they chose to because they had found there was nothing worse than living with the wrong person.

In my interviews, older single people expressed a clear preference for living alone, which allowed them to retain their feelings of independence and integrity, and a clear aversion to moving in with friends or family or into a nursing home.

PHOTO: At 18 months after the death of a spouse, only one in four elderly men and one in six elderly women say they are interested in remarrying.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DopAEdTpVF4/TPQuoJpmdiI/AAAAAAAABPM/sB5k-ckekP8/s1600/rosa.jpg
http://pequenasirmasdasagradafamilia.blogspot.com/2010/11/amar.html

According to research by Deborah Carr, a sociologist at Rutgers University in New Jersey, at 18 months after the death of a spouse, only one in four elderly men and one in six elderly women say they are interested in remarrying; one in three men and one in seven women are interested in dating someday; and only one in four men and one in 11 women are interested in dating immediately.

Most older widows, widowers and divorced people live alone. According to Kathleen McGarry, an economist at the University of California, Los Angeles: “When they have more income and they have a choice of how to live, they choose to live alone. They buy their independence.”

Some unhealthy old people do become dangerously isolated, as I learned when I researched my book about the hundreds of people who died alone in the 1995 Chicago heat wave. Thousands of elderly people died alone in the European heat wave of 2003.

PHOTO: GOD LOVES YOU! No matter who or what you are.
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But many people over age 65 maintain domestic independence far longer than previous generations did. What’s new is that the great majority prefer living alone, and they’re willing to spend more on housing and domestic help for the privilege.

True, the challenged economy has forced more young adults to move in with their parents because they cannot find good jobs; but in America the proportion of those between 20 and 29 who live alone went down only slightly, from 11.97 percent in 2007 to 10.94 percent in 2011. In the general population, living alone has become more common — in absolute and proportional terms.

PHOTO: Estimates that more than 32 million Americans live alone today, up from 27.2 million in 2000 and 31 million in 2010.

http://poesiasdelcorazon.p.o.pic.centerblog.net/CREA-TULY-SI-TE-VAS.gif
http://poesiasdelcorazon.centerblog.net/rub-mes-creas-.html

The latest United States census report estimates that more than 32 million Americans live alone today, up from 27.2 million in 2000 and 31 million in 2010. All signs suggest living alone will become even more common in the future, at every stage of adulthood and in every place where people can afford a place of their own.

Eric Klinenberg is a professor of sociology and the author of “Going Solo: The Extraordinary Rise and Surprising Appeal of Living Alone.”

PHOTO: In Paris, the city of lovers, more than half of all households contain single people, and in socialist Stockholm, the rate tops 60 percent.
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http://poesiasdelcorazon.p.o.pic.centerblog.net/191ae340.gif
http://poesiasdelcorazon.centerblog.net/rub-mes-creas-.html

Reference

Char Kuey Teow (炒粿条 chǎo guǒ tiáo)

2012-02-11T11:34:00.012+08:00

Source Website: http://www.visitpenang.gov.my/portal3/where-to-eat/helen-ong/char-kuey-teow.html
By HELEN ONG, Tuesday, 24 March 2009, 14:34

PHOTO: Char kuey teow – flat noodles with prawns, chinese sausage, beansprouts and spring onions at a hawker centre somewhere in PJ. Malaysian hawker stall food fest.

Posted by Moniqca Food, © 2010 moniqca
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http://www.moniqca.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Char-Kuey-Teow.jpg
http://www.moniqca.com/char-kuey-teow/

It’s something that you have to try when you are in Malaysia, and definitely when you are in Penang. There’s nothing quite like this plate of flat rice noodles, short, fat crunchy bean sprouts and a handful of kuchai (garlic chives), a few prawns (if you’re lucky), a dollop of ground chilli paste, and optional seeham (cockles), fried up with chopped garlic in a large spoonful of lard. Some stalls add a few slivers of Chinese sausage.

PHOTO: Autenthic Penang Char Kuey Teow!!

Must have! Beats waiting two hours for the Sisters Char Kueh Tiaw @ Lorong Selamat, Penang! Char Kuey Teow - RM9.00

Written by yomi at 4:49 PM Monday, May 30, 2011
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http://naomitham.blogspot.com/2011/05/wok-cafe.html

It’s got to be good and quick, and all bound together with some good black soya sauce and an egg thrown in right at the end. No wonder this all-time favourite has been voted one of Penang’s traditional heritage listings.

PHOTO: Char kuey teow – flat noodles with prawns, chinese sausage, beansprouts and spring onions at a hawker centre somewhere in PJ. Malaysian hawker stall food fest.

A good char kuey teow must have “wok hei”, that certain characteristic aroma that can only be achieved with a large black metal wok sat over a really fiery heat (none of this non-stick stuff). The heat caramelises the sugar in the soya sauce and gives it a faintly burnt taste and makes your mouth drool when you smell it!

PHOTO: Tiong Nam’s Char Kuey Teow

It has a nice aroma when a piece of banana leaf is used for lining the plate when the Kuey Teow is piping hot. 2 pieces of prawn (the size slightly bigger than RM0.50), some cockles, few pieces of ‘lap cheong’ (Chinese sausage) & egg cost RM3.00 a plate which is cheap to KL’s standard.

Posted ~ by chialat on March 28, 2009.

Blog at WordPress.com. Theme: ChaoticSoul by Bryan Veloso. "Chialat Foods, If it’s not good, then it’s si peh chialat!"

http://chialatsfoods.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/p32801442.jpg?w=497&h=360
http://chialatsfoods.wordpress.com/2009/03/28/tiong-nams-char-kuey-teow/

A place for a decent Char Kuey Teow at Tiong Nam. Normally people go ‘Tion Nam’ for breakfast, lunch and dinner or supper there; but would not bother to mention the name of coffee shop. In fact didn’t know the name of the coffee shop until taking this photo for blogging. It is ‘Keat Seng', located at the junction of Reservoir Garden where the morning market is. If heading to Penang Hill from town, it is just right after the Shell petrol station.

PHOTO: Tiong Nam’s Char Kuey Teow

You can’t miss the Char Kuey Teow when you are in Penang, can you?

Posted ~ by chialat on March 28, 2009.

Blog at WordPress.com. Theme: ChaoticSoul by Bryan Veloso. "Chialat Foods, If it’s not good, then it’s si peh chialat!"
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PWAIDx3VqUk/TzXq8KsQRYI/AAAAAAAAREQ/WVsxJD-asqI/s1600/p3280148a.jpg

http://chialatsfoods.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/p3280148a.jpg?w=497
http://chialatsfoods.wordpress.com/2009/03/28/tiong-nams-char-kuey-teow/

There are various versions of it available all over Malaysia: some are darker through the addition of more thick black soya sauce; others are redder (extra chilli). Some use thicker, broader noodles; others are finer. Some people prefer it slightly wetter with a touch more gravy; others prefer it with more yolk – achieved using a duck’s egg instead of the more traditional chicken. Here in Penang it’s a bit of in-between – neither too thick nor thin, neither too black nor red – in fact, any Penangite will tell you, “It’s perfect!” For our Muslim friends, halal versions are very popular too, available in many of our great hotels and restaurants.

PHOTO: Penang Char Kuey Teow

Article and Photos By HELEN ONG, Tuesday, 24 March, 2009 14:34
http://www.visitpenang.gov.my/portal3/images/stories/charkueyteow.png
http://www.visitpenang.gov.my/portal3/where-to-eat/helen-ong/char-kuey-teow.html

Traditionally a poor man’s meal because of its high carbohydrate and relatively low protein content, in recent years the humble Char Kuey Teow can also be found in the more upmarket establishments: small shrimps have been replaced by succulent pieces of lobster, and it also comes garnished with juicy crab meat, which will of course mean commensurate prices. However, aficionados will argue that these add-ones are unnecessary: a good Char Kuey Teow seller doesn’t need such fancy items to enhance his specialty. He will make do with traditional ingredients only, because all he requires is that special skill.

PHOTO: Penang Char Kuey Teow (炒粿条 chǎo guǒ tiáo).
Posted by PickYin, 11:29:00 AM, Thursday, March 03, 2011
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http://pickyin.blogspot.com/2011/03/penang-char-kuey-teow.html

Everyone has a personal favourite in some nook or cranny, although cholesterol notwithstanding, many seem prepared to travel far and wide in their hunt for the perfect plate of this local favourite. Personally, I don’t think we need to go far. And there are many places where you can get good char kuey teow in Penang - someone will have set up his gigantic black wok at practically every coffee shop or food court.

Helen Ong is a self-confessed foodie who loves to hunt down the best of Penang. She is the author of the book Great Dining in Penang. Check out her blog on www.helenong.com

Char Kway Teow (炒粿条 chǎo guǒ tiáo)

From: http://www.savetubevideo.com/?v=135MxX4nONw&feature=player_embedded

Reference

Don't miss out on 'Transformers 2'

2012-02-08T14:46:00.008+08:00

My Paper, Wednesday, Feburary 8, 2012, Page A18, Viewpoints
From http://epaper.mypaper.sg/cnd/fvxen/fvxp/fvxpress.php?param=2012-02-08
By Geoff Tan

PHOTO: Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen (Summer 2009)
http://blog.80millionmoviesfree.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/transformers2.jpg
http://blog.80millionmoviesfree.com/in-theaters/watch-transformers-2-online

PHOTO: Geoff Tan
The writer is a senior vice-president of Singapore Press Holdings’ marketing division.
My Paper, Wednesday, Feburary 8, 2012, Page A18, Viewpoints

BEFORE you start thinking that I have gone from writing Viewpoint pieces to reviewing movies - in this case, the second instalment of the Transformers film series, entitled Revenge Of The Fallen - I have not!

Instead, I'd like to share two tips that will contribute to transforming our lives positively.

In his newest bestseller, entitled Transformation, author Bill Phillips relates the story of a man named Azim, whose 20-year-old son was murdered by a teenage gang member.

PHOTO: Transformers Movie

Posted by unicron.com, Transformer Collector Resource, on Tuesday, February 13, 2007
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bLG9eOCJvA4/TzIe8lyuhqI/AAAAAAAARDM/7XLfLE_QNHc/s1600/T_18778%2BR.jpg

http://www.unicron.us/tf2007/moviepromo/T_18778%20R.jpg
http://unicron-events-interviews.blogspot.com/2007/02/transformers-movie-preview-event-new.html

In a most courageous act of compassion, Azim did something that might be deemed unfathomable (difficult or impossible to understand) by most people - he forgave his son's killer.

I thank God that most of us will not go through a situation as extreme as that, but if you care to dig deeper into the recesses of your heart, you will probably find that there are issues bottled up within yourself, causing undue stress.

These could take the form of a grudge (a feeling of ill will or resentment) or pent-up bitterness that is harming you more than the person who caused it.

United States author and actress Carrie Fisher was quoted as saying: "Resentment is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die."

PHOTO: Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_pnoC4AvCkLw/TAa-SK1jkyI/AAAAAAAAACY/E0kUNQ58ICM/s1600/transformers-2-movie-stills-08-3.jpg
http://dtqsmoviereviews.blogspot.com/2010_06_01_archive.html

In his book, Phillips highlights a study that appeared in the Journal Of Epidemiology & Community Health.

This piece of research concluded that those who repressed (kept suppressed and unconscious in one's mind) anger and harboured resentment were twice as likely to die of a heart attack, compared to people wbo were able to process and let go of negative things.

In Phillips' words, "granting someone true forgiveness is not based on any conditions; the forgiven don't have to deserve it or earn it. It's an act of grace and mercy on your part".

This brings me to Transformer Tip 1: Forgive!

PHOTO: Megan Fox at Transformers 2 Press Conference in Paris
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2O_NM3YV7lM/TzIe7wD7upI/AAAAAAAARDA/DDa3sfOeWPk/s1600/Megan_Fox_at_Transformers_2_Press_Conference_in_Paris_-_1.jpg
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons /e/ed/Megan_Fox_at_Transformers_2_Press_Conference_in_Paris_-_1.jpg
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Megan_Fox_at_Transformers_2_Press_Conference_in_Paris_-_1.jpg

Some years ago, Phillips had the opportunity to meet US fitness icon Jack LaLanne during an interview with USA Today.

A reporter was said to have asked the late Mr LaLanne: "What should people who want to live a healthy life do first thing in the morning?"

Expecting an exercise or nutrition tip, Phillips was surprised when Mr LaLanne answered: "A healthy person always starts the day by counting his blessings."

Even before I heard this story, it had been a practice of mine to lie awake on my bed for a few minutes every morning, thanking God for the blessings he continues to graciously pour into my life.

PHOTO: Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
http://wallpapersfinder.net/imgfondos/transformers-2-2824.jpg
http://wallpapersfinder.net/2011/07/30/transformers-2-2824.html

I believe that this daily feel-good ritual set a positive spin to how the day ahead will unfold.

Dr Robelt Emmons of the University of California - who was involved in a major research project on gratitude (feeling of being grateful or thankful) wrote: "A daily gratitude intervention produced higher levels of alertness, enthusiasm, determination, attentiveness and energy,"

I am a firm believer that thankfulness truly begets health and happiness.

Which Ieads me to Transformer Tip 2: Count your blessings!

Here's wishing you a great "transformational" day.

By Geoff Tan

The writer is a senior vice-president of Singapore Press Holdings' marketing division.

PHOTO: Wallpapers from Transformers.com
http://host.trivialbeing.org/galleries/transformers-20090511-wallpapers/wp_transformers1322_1280.jpg
http://www.moviechronicles.com/transformers/transformers-images/official/

PHOTO: Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen (Summer 2009)
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cqo06p8QuX0/TzIglVyGNwI/AAAAAAAARDg/nv0Skm7Yt4s/s1600/transformers2-1.jpg
http://blog.80millionmoviesfree.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/transformers2.jpg
http://blog.80millionmoviesfree.com/in-theaters/watch-transformers-2-online

HELPDESK
我的字典: Wǒ de zì diǎn

Unfathomable (difficult or impossible to understand): 难以理解的 - nán yǐ lǐ jiě de
Grudge (a feeling of ill will or resentment): 积怨 - jī yuàn
Repressed (kept suppressed and unconscious in one's mind): 被抑制的 - bèi yì zhì de
Gratitude (feeling of being grateful or thankful): 感激 - gǎn jī

PHOTO: Transformers 2 photos show Megan Fox in a leather jacket.
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5a38d8Cd26I/TzIe6uTXwVI/AAAAAAAARCc/rfHhyisQ5V0/s1600/transformers-20090518-megan-fox-leather.jpg
http://host.trivialbeing.org/up/transformers-20090518-megan-fox-leather.jpg
http://www.moviechronicles.com/transformers/transformers-images/official/

Reference

Horti-couture to get hearts racing Asda unveils two stone Valentine's Day dress made from 1,725 flowers

2012-02-07T17:12:00.013+08:00

Source Website: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2097272/Horti-couture-hearts-racing-Asda-unveils-stone-Valentines-Day-dress-1-725-flowers.html?ito=feeds-newsxml
By Maysa Rawi, Last updated at 12:03 AM on 7th February 2012

PHOTO: Asda has unveiled a mermaid-cut dress made from 1,725 flowers to encourage couples to treat themselves this Valentine's Day.
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It's the kind of dress you would expect to find on the catwalk at Couture Week (designing, making, and selling highly fashionable, usually custom-made clothing for women).

But the stunning red strapless creation made from 1,725 flowers is the result of a collaboration between an award-winning florist - and supermarket chain Asda.

The Valentine's Day-themed gown took 170 hours to make and weighs just under two stone.

PHOTO: The petals from 1,000 of Naomi red roses cover the entire body, running down to the floor and the entire look was completed with a pair of rose petal covered stiletto shoes.
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http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2097272/Horti-couture-hearts-racing-Asda-unveils-stone-Valentines-Day-dress-1-725-flowers.html?ito=feeds-newsxml

It was designed by 23-year-old Joe Massie, three-time winner of the RHS Chelsea Young Florist of the Year award, to help remind and inspire the nation’s men and women to treat their loved one this Valentine’s Day with gorgeous flowers.

The dress was inspired by the 110lbs Stephane Rolland masterpiece modelled by Yasmin Le Bon at Paris Fashion Week earlier this year, bringing couture to the flower world.

The sexy split-legged design, showcases a selection of Asda’s exquisite Valentine’s Day flower range.

PHOTO: The dress was inspired by the 110lbs Stephane Rolland masterpiece modelled by Yasmin Le Bon at Paris Fashion Week earlier this year

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/02/06/article-0-11704166000005DC-809_634x423.jpg
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2097272/Horti-couture-hearts-racing-Asda-unveils-stone-Valentines-Day-dress-1-725-flowers.html?ito=feeds-newsxml

The petals from 1,000 of Naomi red roses cover the entire body, running down to the floor.

Fifteen exquisite Carmen roses and 200 chrysanthemums, decorated with gold-leaf, adorn the hip and skirt of the dress.

Petals from 150 Purple Power roses, 75 gerberas and 300 carnations have been used on the hem giving the gown the perfect finish.

The entire look was completed with a pair of rose petal covered stiletto shoes.

PHOTO: The dress was designed by 23-year-old Joe Massie, three-time winner of the RHS Chelsea Young Florist of the Year award.
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8cUPaxyKSME/TzDvqKy__2I/AAAAAAAARCA/yhydlfnGTyc/s1600/article-0-119B727B000005DC-685_634x818.jpg
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/02/06/article-0-119B727B000005DC-685_634x818.jpg
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Massie is renowned for his artistic designs, and Asda’s commission is his largest and most challenging creation yet.

He said: 'Creating this dress was a big challenge, and incredible experience. I wanted to embody everything a romantic bouquet of Valentine’s Day flowers should be – classic, elegant and with a sexy twist.

'I’m so proud of what we have achieved with Asda’s stunning flower range. I hope it inspires people to treat their loved ones with an extra special bunch of flowers this Valentine’s Day.'

Theresa Tyrell, buying manager of houseplants and flowers at Asda, said: 'It’s no surprise men told us they needed a little inspiration this Valentine’s Day so we have joined forces with award-winning floral designer Joe to create an incredible dress made of first-class flowers, including roses, chrysanthemums, gerberas and carnations, all picked from our Valentine’s bouquet collection.'

By Maysa Rawi, Last updated at 12:03 AM on 7th February 2012

PHOTO: Happy Valentine's Day !

The ruby little cherubs seen on the front of Valentines Day cards are committed to spreading kisses and romantic mischief. Let's be entirely faithful, not just physically, but also emotionally, in our relations, and with our time to our life mate.

http://www.mega-tapety.info/resize/swietaiokazje-walentynki-2560-1920-3943.jpg
http://www.mega-tapety.info/swietaiokazje-walentynki-3943.html

PHOTO: Waiting in love. May Valentine's Day 2012 brings lots of love and abundant time of intimacy.
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http://fondos.wallpaperstock.net/esperando-en-el-amor-wallpapers_w29784.html

Reference

No entry to church if you turn up in this....

2012-02-07T13:15:00.004+08:00

My Paper, Tuesday, Feburary 7, 2012, Page A2, Home
From http://epaper.mypaper.sg/cnd/fvxen/fvxp/fvxpress.php?param=2012-02-07
Source Website: http://www.asiaone.com/News/Latest%2BNews/Singapore/Story/A1Story20120207-326228.html
By Sarah Chang, schang@sph.com.sg, my paper, Tuesday, Feb 07, 2012

PHOTO: Suit-able?: The samfoo that Ms Lisa Chew wore to church.

By STOMP
My Paper, Tuesday, Feburary 7, 2012, Page A2, Home

A WOMAN who went for Sunday mass at a Catholic church two weeks ago was shocked when a church warden approached her after the service and took issue with her outfit.

Ms Lisa Chew, a housewife in her 50s, was wearing a pink samfoo, a Chinese-style pantsuit that ended about 5cm above her ankles.

She was at the Church of St Anthony in Woodlands with her husband, Mr Eric Alagan, 56, a business consultant.

They have attended services at the church for more than a decade.

The warden, who looked to be in her 20s, told Ms Chew politely that she would not be allowed into the church if she turned up in the attire again, said Mr Alagan.

She was then handed a letter reminding her not to wear clothing that does not conform to the church's dress code.

The couple knew what the letter was about as they had seen wardens handing out similar letters in previous weeks' masses.

Ms Chew was taken aback as she had worn a similar outfit to the church last month but was not approached.

First mooted by the church in February last year, the dress code was implemented in December.

The guidelines were published in the church's weekly bulletin on Jan 1. The bulletin was given out to all churchgoers.

The code allows women to wear skirts or dresses that end 2.5cm to 5cm above the knees.

So, "it doesn't make sense" that a samfoo pantsuit that ends just 5cm above the ankles is not allowed, said Mr Alagan.

He said: "Be reasonable and consistent. That's all I'm asking for."

Mr Alagan asked the parish priest via e-mail how the pantsuit "offended any sensitivities, or outraged anyone's modesty".

He added that "the priest's e-mailed reply read, 'There is no mention of modesty or immodesty. We say it is appropriate for pants to be full-length' ".

Frustrated with the reply, he posted a photo of his wife's outfit on citizen-journalism website Stomp last Friday.

The post has attracted over 26,000 views and about 165 comments.

PHOTO: OUTRAGED!

Posted by Eric Alagan, Friday, 03 Feb 2012 (Written Words Never Die ~ Poems, micro-fictions, thoughts...)

http://ericalaganfanclub.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/attire-used-to-church-on-29012012.jpg
http://ericalaganfanclub.wordpress.com/

Some netizens think that churchgoers should follow the rules set by their church, while others consider the rules to be too "puritanical" (Rigorous in religious observance).

One netizen said: "I really don't see what is wrong with her dress. I can understand mini skirts being frowned (upon), but this is not in that league."

Another said: "What you wear speaks (volumes) about you. As a lawyer, you will not wear three-quarter pants to court because" it shows a lack of respect for the institution."

my paper contacted the church on Sunday for an explanation.

The Archdiocese of Singapore replied in an e-mail yesterday that it is reviewing the dress codes of all 31 parishes here to decide whether the guidelines should be "implemented at the Archdiocese (the district or churches under the jurisdiction of a bishop) level".

Dress codes at Catholic churches have become stricter in recent years. Novena Church's Father Clement Lee told my paper that a standardisation of dress-code guidelines may turn out to be "counter-productive" for the majority of parishioners.

"The challenge will be to make these guidelines applicable to the majority. But then again, most are already doing their part," he said.

"These are guidelines, not impositions. They are supposed to be recommended, rather than forced on someone.

If the Archdiocese wants all churches to undertake them, they should be called rules and regulations."

By Sarah Chang, schang@sph.com.sg, my paper, Tuesday, Feb 07, 2012

PHOTO: Definitely if you wear a hot little number like Scarlett Johannson, you’re going to get looks at your chest.
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http://s161.photobucket.com/profile/lycan_ninja22

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