My friends Elaine and Khuong helped me got my Wii today. One painstakingly found out UPS delivery schedule for Wii and the other patiently waited in line to purchase my set for me. They made a house call tonight together to drop off my new toy at my house. Talk about service!!! Yes, I am so spoiled. If it wasn’t because I was running out to have my hair cut today, they would have set it up for me too. Some nice friends I have huh? I am so blessed!!! :)
Wanna play with me after I set-up my new toy? I got 2 remotes and 2 nunchuks. Hey, just in time for junior high girls' party at my house next Saturday too. God is good! Let’s see if I can get my friends to get 2 more remotes for me. Hehe ;)
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Do you believe God is in control?
Funny how our Father is making me ponder over this question recently. I have to say, whenever friends share their situations with me, I would encourage them, cheer them on, and believe God is in control. Honestly, it is a lot easier to believe and say to others, when I am the 3rd party looking in.
Just 2 weeks ago, I was given this opportunity to pray and decide whether I would serve in BSF leadership next school year. I prayed and honestly I couldn’t think of any reason not to. Consequently, I said yes. Not even a day after I gave my answer, my big boss and boss told me that I would be traveling more. With new projects that are coming at work, I was like, what should I do?
Yup, I started to struggle with my decision on whether to serve in BSF due to my travel schedule. Over this whole process, praying, deciding, interviewing and talking to BSF leaders, I realized that the part of me having such a struggle in deciding was because I KNOW my schedule will be busy (hey, it cannot be less clear when your direct boss tells you without any hesitation). Using my human eyes to look at things, I KNOW there is just NO way to work out everything. Thus, I was torn.
But, wait, didn’t I say I believe that our Father is in control? Well, yeah, my point exactly. It is harder to see when you are so closely involved seeing all the impossible details and yet REALLY believing that God will work out everything. Yup, ye of little faith, that’s me! Being so independent myself, I was using my little brain and little strength trying to reason. That’s why God is teaching me this lesson now. How much do you believe in me and believing I am in control?
I still don’t know how God would work out my schedule but I know He will. Other wise He wouldn’t have provided me with this opportunity to serve! Yeah, I am learning not to put our Father inside my little box. I am being reminded if I DO believe, I got to trust, let go and lean on Him. I have to rely on His strength because frankly, I have nothing else. I do believe our Father wants to show me how much He is capable of. Not with my strength, but with entirely His. That's why He is making me let go this earlier on. So, yes, I have surrendered my work schedule to God. My final decision is to serve in BSF in the coming school year.
Do you believe our God is in control?
Just 2 weeks ago, I was given this opportunity to pray and decide whether I would serve in BSF leadership next school year. I prayed and honestly I couldn’t think of any reason not to. Consequently, I said yes. Not even a day after I gave my answer, my big boss and boss told me that I would be traveling more. With new projects that are coming at work, I was like, what should I do?
Yup, I started to struggle with my decision on whether to serve in BSF due to my travel schedule. Over this whole process, praying, deciding, interviewing and talking to BSF leaders, I realized that the part of me having such a struggle in deciding was because I KNOW my schedule will be busy (hey, it cannot be less clear when your direct boss tells you without any hesitation). Using my human eyes to look at things, I KNOW there is just NO way to work out everything. Thus, I was torn.
But, wait, didn’t I say I believe that our Father is in control? Well, yeah, my point exactly. It is harder to see when you are so closely involved seeing all the impossible details and yet REALLY believing that God will work out everything. Yup, ye of little faith, that’s me! Being so independent myself, I was using my little brain and little strength trying to reason. That’s why God is teaching me this lesson now. How much do you believe in me and believing I am in control?
I still don’t know how God would work out my schedule but I know He will. Other wise He wouldn’t have provided me with this opportunity to serve! Yeah, I am learning not to put our Father inside my little box. I am being reminded if I DO believe, I got to trust, let go and lean on Him. I have to rely on His strength because frankly, I have nothing else. I do believe our Father wants to show me how much He is capable of. Not with my strength, but with entirely His. That's why He is making me let go this earlier on. So, yes, I have surrendered my work schedule to God. My final decision is to serve in BSF in the coming school year.
Do you believe our God is in control?
Food for thought 5
The best use of your life is to invest it in that which outlasts it.
- William James
What are you investing your life in?
- William James
What are you investing your life in?
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Food for thought 4
Happiness
- Unknown
We convince ourselves that life will be better after we get married. When we're married, we think things will be better when we have a baby. Then we are frustrated that the kids aren't old enough for us to relax but we know we'll be more content when they are.
After that we're frustrated that we have teenagers to deal with. We will certainly be happy when they are out of that stage. We tell ourselves that our life will be complete when our spouse gets his or her act together, when we get a nicer car, are able to go on a nice vacation, when we retire.
The truth is, there's no better time to be happy than right now. If not now, when? Your life will always be filled with challenges. It's best to admit this to yourself and decide to be happy anyway.
A great quote on this very subject comes from Alfred D. Souza. He said, "For a long time it had seemed to me that life was about to begin - real life. But there are always some obstacles in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid. Then life would begin. At last it dawned on me that
these obstacles were my life."
This perspective has helped me to see that there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way. So treasure every moment that you have. And treasure it more because you shared it with someone special, special enough to spend your time... and remember that time waits for no one.
So stop waiting until you finish school, until you're back to school, until you lose ten pounds, until you gain ten pounds, until you have kids, until your kids leave the house, until you start work, until you retire, until you get married, until you get divorced, until Friday night, until Sunday morning, until you get a new car or home, until your new car or home is paid off, until spring, until summer, until fall, until winter, until you are on welfare, until you are off welfare, until the first or the fifteenth to decide that there is no better time than right now to be happy.
Happiness is a journey, not a destination.
- Unknown
We convince ourselves that life will be better after we get married. When we're married, we think things will be better when we have a baby. Then we are frustrated that the kids aren't old enough for us to relax but we know we'll be more content when they are.
After that we're frustrated that we have teenagers to deal with. We will certainly be happy when they are out of that stage. We tell ourselves that our life will be complete when our spouse gets his or her act together, when we get a nicer car, are able to go on a nice vacation, when we retire.
The truth is, there's no better time to be happy than right now. If not now, when? Your life will always be filled with challenges. It's best to admit this to yourself and decide to be happy anyway.
A great quote on this very subject comes from Alfred D. Souza. He said, "For a long time it had seemed to me that life was about to begin - real life. But there are always some obstacles in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid. Then life would begin. At last it dawned on me that
these obstacles were my life."
This perspective has helped me to see that there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way. So treasure every moment that you have. And treasure it more because you shared it with someone special, special enough to spend your time... and remember that time waits for no one.
So stop waiting until you finish school, until you're back to school, until you lose ten pounds, until you gain ten pounds, until you have kids, until your kids leave the house, until you start work, until you retire, until you get married, until you get divorced, until Friday night, until Sunday morning, until you get a new car or home, until your new car or home is paid off, until spring, until summer, until fall, until winter, until you are on welfare, until you are off welfare, until the first or the fifteenth to decide that there is no better time than right now to be happy.
Happiness is a journey, not a destination.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Turkey + Amy
Turkey's friend Amy Bear came for a visit last Saturday. Here are 2 cute pictures of them. Can you believe that by adding Turkey and Amy's age, it is roughly 50+ years? Yup, they are both well loved stuffed animals and very precious. Although way biased, I have to say, my favorite is TURKEY!!! :)
Monday, March 19, 2007
VisualDNA
Inspired by Andrea’s VisualDNA. I thought it was neat to shuffle pictures.
What do you think of my VisualDNA? You wanna try to do one too? ;)
What do you think of my VisualDNA? You wanna try to do one too? ;)
Friday, March 16, 2007
Food for thought 3
Ephesians 4:29
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (NIV)
Do your words build others up or do they tear themdown?
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (NIV)
Do your words build others up or do they tear themdown?
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Food for thought 2
Before you read any further, think of someone that annoys you. Someone that you really just don't like. It can be someone from church, your family, or work. Do you have that person or people in mind? Can you think of something they do that really bugs you? Now read on.
Matthew 5:46
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? (NIV)
Jesus asks you to act in love to that person, to treat him or her with respect and decency. It is easy to love those who are like us, but the challenge comes in loving those who unlovable. Think of how you can show love to that person.
Matthew 5:46
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? (NIV)
Jesus asks you to act in love to that person, to treat him or her with respect and decency. It is easy to love those who are like us, but the challenge comes in loving those who unlovable. Think of how you can show love to that person.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Confession
The other day at BSF class, I did the unthinkable. While all the chairs were all roped off, I unroped one of the rows and just picked my favorite aisle seat. Of course the poor usher was having a heart attack. He gave me this what-are-you-doing look. Since he was standing quite close to where I was, he walked over and verbally said to me, “What are you doing?!!!” With a big smile on my face, I told him “to make his life interesting!” (while laughing in my mind. I was so bad!).
Just before the lecture was about to start, guess what the usher did? With all the still available seats, he came over and sat down right next to me. I was like… OH MAN!!! WAH!!! He being so tall and with everyone so packed in, I was really feeling his presence and feeling my guilty conscience. For the whole entire lecture, I was feeling really really bad. After the lecture, the dude just got up and walked away, without saying a single word. Yeah, did I mention my increasing guilt?
Days after, I am still feeling bad, hence the confession :p. I have been reflecting on this and realizing that I am not very good in following directions. (No wonder I am always lost!) But more importantly, I realized how I am naturally disobedient. Never mind the Israelites are disobedient. I am too. Thankfully, despite our disobedience, God still loves us by showing us His mercy. (Hey, this is from last week’s BSF homework! ;)
Yeah, the dude did show me his mercy too without telling me off after the lecture. I guess next week, if I have the opportunity to see him, I will apologize. Isn’t it interesting how God can work in our hearts even with something this small?
Just before the lecture was about to start, guess what the usher did? With all the still available seats, he came over and sat down right next to me. I was like… OH MAN!!! WAH!!! He being so tall and with everyone so packed in, I was really feeling his presence and feeling my guilty conscience. For the whole entire lecture, I was feeling really really bad. After the lecture, the dude just got up and walked away, without saying a single word. Yeah, did I mention my increasing guilt?
Days after, I am still feeling bad, hence the confession :p. I have been reflecting on this and realizing that I am not very good in following directions. (No wonder I am always lost!) But more importantly, I realized how I am naturally disobedient. Never mind the Israelites are disobedient. I am too. Thankfully, despite our disobedience, God still loves us by showing us His mercy. (Hey, this is from last week’s BSF homework! ;)
Yeah, the dude did show me his mercy too without telling me off after the lecture. I guess next week, if I have the opportunity to see him, I will apologize. Isn’t it interesting how God can work in our hearts even with something this small?
O_o
Hahaha, that’s what I look like now. 2 days ago, when I woke up, one of my eyes was swollen. I never had this before so no idea on what happened. It just did. Yesterday, my swollen eye seemed to be even MORE swollen, so I visited my lovely Vivi (and had lots of fun seeing her!). Thank God my swollen eye is nothing serious. Vivi said it is a stye and I just have to put hot/warm compress on it every day.
Brownie points to Erica and Emme for telling me the same thing before my Vivi visit so I wasn’t freaked out. Thanks to Emme for suggesting to put a hot boiled egg, wrapped in a towel, on the eye to help reducing the swelling AND for telling me she would be praying for me. Awww, how sweet! :)
Ahhhh, yes, I have to say my original eye is A LOT prettier but you know, to be able to see, is still good. Hehe :p
Brownie points to Erica and Emme for telling me the same thing before my Vivi visit so I wasn’t freaked out. Thanks to Emme for suggesting to put a hot boiled egg, wrapped in a towel, on the eye to help reducing the swelling AND for telling me she would be praying for me. Awww, how sweet! :)
Ahhhh, yes, I have to say my original eye is A LOT prettier but you know, to be able to see, is still good. Hehe :p
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Work Drama
Just came out from 2 meetings today. New management gave us 2 good news:
1. Palo Alto site will exist. Short term: at the same building for 2-3 years. Long term: may relocate but site will still be in Palo Alto area.
2. My whole entire work group survived. We were all given offer letters for Palo Alto site.
In light of the good news, for some reason I am not feeling all jazzed up. I still feel my job is temporary (nothing is “permanent” you know?). In any case, I am thankful to God for giving me a great boss who always fights for the group. I am thankful to God too for His protection, guidance and peace. I may not understand of all that is going on right now, I know God is full of wisdom and knowledge. He has a good plan for me. I don’t know what will come tomorrow but I am glad to know God holds my future! He graciously cares and is mindful of little me. Praise God for what He has done and what He will do. :)
What about our dear Andrea and Mimi? Andrea will still be a temp. Depending on projects, I still have hope to see her cute face “permanently” here. :) Let’s continue to pray for her. As for Mimi, she got her offer letter today like me. Yay!
Thank you all my personal prayer warriors. God be with you! :)
1. Palo Alto site will exist. Short term: at the same building for 2-3 years. Long term: may relocate but site will still be in Palo Alto area.
2. My whole entire work group survived. We were all given offer letters for Palo Alto site.
In light of the good news, for some reason I am not feeling all jazzed up. I still feel my job is temporary (nothing is “permanent” you know?). In any case, I am thankful to God for giving me a great boss who always fights for the group. I am thankful to God too for His protection, guidance and peace. I may not understand of all that is going on right now, I know God is full of wisdom and knowledge. He has a good plan for me. I don’t know what will come tomorrow but I am glad to know God holds my future! He graciously cares and is mindful of little me. Praise God for what He has done and what He will do. :)
What about our dear Andrea and Mimi? Andrea will still be a temp. Depending on projects, I still have hope to see her cute face “permanently” here. :) Let’s continue to pray for her. As for Mimi, she got her offer letter today like me. Yay!
Thank you all my personal prayer warriors. God be with you! :)
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Food for thought 1
I have collected some very nice articles over the years. I thought I would post them weekly on my blog for your reading pleasure. Enjoy! :)
***************************************
None of us can do anything great on our own, but we can all do a small thing with great love.
- Mother Teresa
Don't try to change the whole world, but reach out in love to those around you. Do small things for those that cross your path. Focus on changing yourself and those around you before you try to change the world.
***************************************
None of us can do anything great on our own, but we can all do a small thing with great love.
- Mother Teresa
Don't try to change the whole world, but reach out in love to those around you. Do small things for those that cross your path. Focus on changing yourself and those around you before you try to change the world.
Friday, March 02, 2007
Randomness
Wow, it is March already. I was reminded by a friend yesterday that ¼ of this year is almost over. Time sure flies!!!
Recently I have been noticing some interesting things in my life.
After posting my New Year resolutions, I discovered that it GOT really hard to keep up with my goal of going to church on time on Sundays. I cannot believe I have failed couple times already. Yes, I won’t even bother to give excuses. Sigh. I am so disappointed BUT I will try again this Sunday. Hehe. :)
One of my BSF small group’s prayer requests is to do homework daily and apply the lessons from Romans in our daily lives. I am just amazed at how often I am applying what I just learned in my daily life and instantly too!
Few weeks ago, I had this prompting to pray for a dear friend. So I prayed and I emailed her verses which I like from my study for no particular reason (or so I thought). It turned out she was going through a difficult time without me knowing. My prayers and verses (Rom 8:28 & Rom 8:38-39) encouraged her just at the right time. Isn’t God amazing?
Last week, I had a good salvation and baptism discussion with my precious junior high girls. I was using Rom 10:9 as the main point of my discussion with them. The interesting thing was I just did my BSF homework regarding salvation like few days prior to my youth group discussion. I was just in awe of God’s timing!
I have been challenging my youth girls in sharing the gospel with friends. Funny how whenever I challenge the kids, I get to do it too! Just yesterday I had a good phone conversation with a close friend. Originally we were just catching up but beyond my own understanding, God provided a divine appointment. In my conversation with this close friend, I ended up sharing about God, sin, Jesus and the good stuff I learned from my study on Romans. I have known this friend for YEARS and could never really share before, God just blown me away!
The more I interact with my youth girls, I realize I should have a Dear Phoebe column. Yes, just a forum to share with each of them what I have learned in my life journey this far. (haha, okay me dreaming on!) :) But seriously though, the more I hear and advice my dear girls, I find myself becoming more and more like my own mom! Without much thought, just like my mom, I use bible verses to encourage the kids, constantly remind them to have a close walk with God and to honor Him in everything we do. Now, I even pray for my kids on a regular basis. What is the point of me saying all this? I am just so thankful to God and so blessed by Him, to have such a good godly mom and woman, as my model!
Okay that’s enough randomness for now. I wonder what is coming next! Life is good because God is good! :)
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Everlasting God
One of my recent favorite worship songs is “Everlasting God”. After paying close attention to the lyrics, I realized that the song came from the following bible verses.
Isaiah 40:28-31
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isn’t it good to know that our God is the everlasting God? He reigns forever and he lifts us up on wings like eagles! May you find the verses just as cool as I did and be encouraged!
PS. Yes, I am asking the junior high girls to memorize this LONG passage with me by 3/2. :p Ahhhh yes, I am happy to report back that I just got the above passage down today. Way earlier than 3/2. Now, I just need to work on retaining this in my little brain. Hehe. ;)
PPS. I am so blessed that not only the girls are memorizing the Bible verses with me, few friends are joining in too. Not bad huh?! :)
Isaiah 40:28-31
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isn’t it good to know that our God is the everlasting God? He reigns forever and he lifts us up on wings like eagles! May you find the verses just as cool as I did and be encouraged!
PS. Yes, I am asking the junior high girls to memorize this LONG passage with me by 3/2. :p Ahhhh yes, I am happy to report back that I just got the above passage down today. Way earlier than 3/2. Now, I just need to work on retaining this in my little brain. Hehe. ;)
PPS. I am so blessed that not only the girls are memorizing the Bible verses with me, few friends are joining in too. Not bad huh?! :)
What’s up?
My company got merged with a new company at the beginning of this year. There are certainly lots of changes coming my way. Although things are SOOOoo unclear right now, God has been good. I know that whatever happens, God is in control. I am just waiting to see where God is leading me next.
The 1st wave of reduction in work force is happening right now. So far, I am okay as my functional area is scheduled to be the 3rd wave. We will know new management’s decision by Mar 15. This means in few weeks, I will know whether I will be offered a job here, a job in RTP North Carolina, or a severance package. Anything is possible but you know, it is just so good to know that my hope is not in my job but my God. :)
Stay tuned for more work saga. Yes, prayers will be appreciated. Please also remember Mimi and Andrea as they also work with me. ;)
The 1st wave of reduction in work force is happening right now. So far, I am okay as my functional area is scheduled to be the 3rd wave. We will know new management’s decision by Mar 15. This means in few weeks, I will know whether I will be offered a job here, a job in RTP North Carolina, or a severance package. Anything is possible but you know, it is just so good to know that my hope is not in my job but my God. :)
Stay tuned for more work saga. Yes, prayers will be appreciated. Please also remember Mimi and Andrea as they also work with me. ;)
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
New Year Resolutions
Do you have any New Year resolutions for 2007? I typically don’t have much because I know I cannot keep them. This year, I do have 2. Amazing isn’t it?
1. To arrive at church ON time each Sunday. I guess you know why! Haha
2. To memorize 1 bible verse per week… as I realized my memory sucks and what better way to train my memory with bible verses. Hehe.
To keep me motivated in memorizing bible verses, believe it or not, I have gotten my junior high girls to memorize verses with me. They are such a good support and I am so proud of them! :) So far we managed to memorize 4 verses. One added bonus I have is I actually used these newly memorized verses to encourage friends in the past weeks. Not too bad huh?
Just to share one of the terrific verses with you… (the current one of the week):
Rom 8:38-39
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
So yes, whatever that is going on in your life, just remember that there is NOTHING that can separate you from God’s love! (Isn't this verse COOL or what!!!)
Yes, yes, I will try my best to keep up with my New Year's resolutions and you can keep me accountable on both. :p
1. To arrive at church ON time each Sunday. I guess you know why! Haha
2. To memorize 1 bible verse per week… as I realized my memory sucks and what better way to train my memory with bible verses. Hehe.
To keep me motivated in memorizing bible verses, believe it or not, I have gotten my junior high girls to memorize verses with me. They are such a good support and I am so proud of them! :) So far we managed to memorize 4 verses. One added bonus I have is I actually used these newly memorized verses to encourage friends in the past weeks. Not too bad huh?
Just to share one of the terrific verses with you… (the current one of the week):
Rom 8:38-39
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
So yes, whatever that is going on in your life, just remember that there is NOTHING that can separate you from God’s love! (Isn't this verse COOL or what!!!)
Yes, yes, I will try my best to keep up with my New Year's resolutions and you can keep me accountable on both. :p
Friday, May 26, 2006
Tagged... Belated
Okay, since I got tagged and cannot escape from those who tagged me, although WAY overdue, here are my responses.
1. Four Jobs:
(My job titles sound boring but I enjoy what I do!)
a. process associate
b. process engineer
c. supervisor
d. manager
2. Four Things I Wish I Had Done Earlier In My Life:
a. learn to swim
b. learn foreign languages (and retain them)
c. travel more (of course for pleasure, not TX for work. Hehe)
d. have a closer relationship with God
3. Four Places I Have Lived:
a. Taipei, Taiwan
b. Albany/Berkeley, CA
c. Santa Barbara, CA
d. Mountain View, CA
4. Four Countries I Have Been To:
a. Taiwan
b. Thailand
c. Japan
d. Australia
5. Four Countries I Would Like to Visit:
a. Italy
b. Switzerland
c. France
d. Czech
6. Four of My Favorite Dishes:
a. anything Korean
b. anything Thai
c. veggies (ok, since I like everything, I am getting desperate)
d. RICE (ok this is a not a surprise but I just have to mention since I am desperate)
7. Four Sites I Visit Daily:
a. my yahoo
b. cnn.com
c. abcnews.com
d. friends' blogs
8. Four Software Applications I Cannot Live Without:
(errrh, I am technically challenged. What do you expect?)
a. IE
b. outlook
c. word
d. media player
9. Four Things I'll Never Forget:
a. my bro's engagement/wedding proposal
b. my boss' comment-- she cannot live with me or live without me. (HAHAHA)
c. my mom's saying-- just try your best (and God be with you)
d. my dad's wish-- God is Enoch and my greatest inheritance
10. I Tag....
(any of the following! Haha. Ok fine. You can pick option a. ;)
a. nobody
b. anybody
c. somebody
d. everybody
1. Four Jobs:
(My job titles sound boring but I enjoy what I do!)
a. process associate
b. process engineer
c. supervisor
d. manager
2. Four Things I Wish I Had Done Earlier In My Life:
a. learn to swim
b. learn foreign languages (and retain them)
c. travel more (of course for pleasure, not TX for work. Hehe)
d. have a closer relationship with God
3. Four Places I Have Lived:
a. Taipei, Taiwan
b. Albany/Berkeley, CA
c. Santa Barbara, CA
d. Mountain View, CA
4. Four Countries I Have Been To:
a. Taiwan
b. Thailand
c. Japan
d. Australia
5. Four Countries I Would Like to Visit:
a. Italy
b. Switzerland
c. France
d. Czech
6. Four of My Favorite Dishes:
a. anything Korean
b. anything Thai
c. veggies (ok, since I like everything, I am getting desperate)
d. RICE (ok this is a not a surprise but I just have to mention since I am desperate)
7. Four Sites I Visit Daily:
a. my yahoo
b. cnn.com
c. abcnews.com
d. friends' blogs
8. Four Software Applications I Cannot Live Without:
(errrh, I am technically challenged. What do you expect?)
a. IE
b. outlook
c. word
d. media player
9. Four Things I'll Never Forget:
a. my bro's engagement/wedding proposal
b. my boss' comment-- she cannot live with me or live without me. (HAHAHA)
c. my mom's saying-- just try your best (and God be with you)
d. my dad's wish-- God is Enoch and my greatest inheritance
10. I Tag....
(any of the following! Haha. Ok fine. You can pick option a. ;)
a. nobody
b. anybody
c. somebody
d. everybody
Friday, April 28, 2006
My Personal DNA?!
While waiting for my boss this afternoon, I caved. I chatted with Andrea and then I did my personality test, the long version one which Bob and others had on their blogs. According to my results, I am an "Animated Leader"! I don't know how true my analysis is regarding me :P, but I am open to see what you have to say! ;)
Animated Leader
Sunday, April 09, 2006
God's Love
I had a minor surgery this past Friday (4/7) to remove a benign tumor in my body. Scary as the word “surgery” sounds, God has loved and blessed me more than I can ever imagine.
My work mom (boss Prema) had been telling me for years to have my physical done. Despite her constant reminder, I shy away from the doctor’s office. Unbelievably, Kaiser actually called me to schedule my physical last December. The date they gave happened to be my company shut-down, so I couldn’t even muster any valid excuse of not going. Yes, I complied and went for my first ever physical... reluctantly.
During my physical, my doctor found a benign tumor (not cancerous!). Over a series of subsequent doctor appointments, the tumor was tested and a few atypical cells were found to be associated with it. The recommendation my doctor gave was to remove the tumor, for fear of the possibility that the atypical cells may turn into cancerous later, even though there’s no history of cancer in my family.
Just like Prema said to me, all she wanted was for me to have a physical. She did not tell me to come back with this! I sure did not expect to have this either. Yes, I struggled with the idea of having surgery. The scientific side of me didn’t mind removal at all but the human side of me just wasn’t clear what this all meant as surgery has its own risks and does not guarantee that the tumor or atypical cells won’t come back.
I told my doctor that I would be praying about surgery and get back to her once I have clarity. As a Christian herself, she reminded me that everything is in God’s hands. As I struggled with my decision, I talked to a small circle of family and friends and started my prayer journey with them. Interestingly, the more we prayed, the more peaceful I got. God has opened my eyes to see that indeed everything is in God’s hands. Even when I was doing my BSF homework, studying how God was carrying out His covenant promise in Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob’s lives, I was reminded how faithful God is.
So I went in for my surgery this past Friday. My mom prayed for me before I went inside for prep and operation. During the whole time, my parents were praying outside, whereas my prayer warrior friends prayed wherever they were. My nurse commented how calm I was and indeed, I was very peaceful for God took all my fears and struggles. God’s hand was definitely upon me during my operation. I did not need extra anesthesia nor feel much pain. He was merciful and gracious to me. He had masked the pain I could suffer. The only pain I felt was the needle pain for IV and local anesthesia.
For my surgery, nurses had to strap my legs and arms. My arms were stretched out so that they could be attached to something, whether it was the IV, pulse reader or blood pressure cuff. Obviously, I never had surgery before nor have I ever been tied-up like that, during my operation, I cried. I cried not because I was in pain but because I suddenly realized how Jesus must have suffered on the cross for me. His arms were also stretched out like mine but nailed. His legs were also tied-down like mine but nailed. While I was lying there on the operation bed, I couldn’t help to think the sufferings Jesus went through. I had anesthesia and 1 nurse who was constantly tending to me, making sure I was doing okay. Jesus had no anesthesia and had to fight the pull of gravity as the cross was upright. Jesus had all those people mocking him when he was crucified. What a contrast to the “suffering” I was undergoing. I was in awe of His love for me!
My surgery was very successful. Not much blood loss. The tumor was removed completely and quickly, less than the hour which they projected originally. I walked away with only 1 stitch but a stitch to remind how much God loves me. Today is the 2nd day after my surgery, I still only feel some discomfort and no pain. Originally I did not feel comfortable in sharing my story. However the more I think about it, the more I see God’s love and I don’t want this blessing just stops here with me. May you be encouraged and can reflect on how much God is showing His love in your life. May God’s wonderful name be glorified!
My work mom (boss Prema) had been telling me for years to have my physical done. Despite her constant reminder, I shy away from the doctor’s office. Unbelievably, Kaiser actually called me to schedule my physical last December. The date they gave happened to be my company shut-down, so I couldn’t even muster any valid excuse of not going. Yes, I complied and went for my first ever physical... reluctantly.
During my physical, my doctor found a benign tumor (not cancerous!). Over a series of subsequent doctor appointments, the tumor was tested and a few atypical cells were found to be associated with it. The recommendation my doctor gave was to remove the tumor, for fear of the possibility that the atypical cells may turn into cancerous later, even though there’s no history of cancer in my family.
Just like Prema said to me, all she wanted was for me to have a physical. She did not tell me to come back with this! I sure did not expect to have this either. Yes, I struggled with the idea of having surgery. The scientific side of me didn’t mind removal at all but the human side of me just wasn’t clear what this all meant as surgery has its own risks and does not guarantee that the tumor or atypical cells won’t come back.
I told my doctor that I would be praying about surgery and get back to her once I have clarity. As a Christian herself, she reminded me that everything is in God’s hands. As I struggled with my decision, I talked to a small circle of family and friends and started my prayer journey with them. Interestingly, the more we prayed, the more peaceful I got. God has opened my eyes to see that indeed everything is in God’s hands. Even when I was doing my BSF homework, studying how God was carrying out His covenant promise in Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob’s lives, I was reminded how faithful God is.
So I went in for my surgery this past Friday. My mom prayed for me before I went inside for prep and operation. During the whole time, my parents were praying outside, whereas my prayer warrior friends prayed wherever they were. My nurse commented how calm I was and indeed, I was very peaceful for God took all my fears and struggles. God’s hand was definitely upon me during my operation. I did not need extra anesthesia nor feel much pain. He was merciful and gracious to me. He had masked the pain I could suffer. The only pain I felt was the needle pain for IV and local anesthesia.
For my surgery, nurses had to strap my legs and arms. My arms were stretched out so that they could be attached to something, whether it was the IV, pulse reader or blood pressure cuff. Obviously, I never had surgery before nor have I ever been tied-up like that, during my operation, I cried. I cried not because I was in pain but because I suddenly realized how Jesus must have suffered on the cross for me. His arms were also stretched out like mine but nailed. His legs were also tied-down like mine but nailed. While I was lying there on the operation bed, I couldn’t help to think the sufferings Jesus went through. I had anesthesia and 1 nurse who was constantly tending to me, making sure I was doing okay. Jesus had no anesthesia and had to fight the pull of gravity as the cross was upright. Jesus had all those people mocking him when he was crucified. What a contrast to the “suffering” I was undergoing. I was in awe of His love for me!
My surgery was very successful. Not much blood loss. The tumor was removed completely and quickly, less than the hour which they projected originally. I walked away with only 1 stitch but a stitch to remind how much God loves me. Today is the 2nd day after my surgery, I still only feel some discomfort and no pain. Originally I did not feel comfortable in sharing my story. However the more I think about it, the more I see God’s love and I don’t want this blessing just stops here with me. May you be encouraged and can reflect on how much God is showing His love in your life. May God’s wonderful name be glorified!
Friday, January 20, 2006
FYI
This is my public service announcement:
If you think it is hard to reach me before, you have got yourself a treat.
I just cannot answer any personal emails at work because I have NO time. My group only has 3 people. Just this Monday, my coworker Erica decided to take months of leave of absence to pursue a research program at New Zealand. She is giving us 2 weeks notice but unfortunately the timing is horribly bad because all the projects are coming fast and furiously. Translation: I am SWAMPED and going crazy along with my boss.
Yes, we will need to hire help. In the mean time, if I don't answer emails, you know why. I doubt I will be answering emails at night because I am just so tired after work and probably just want to veg out in front of TV. Can you believe my stupid cold is coming back for the 3rd time? :(
If you don't know by now, if you do call me on my cell, it is basically trying your luck because I only carry my cell when I am out of my house (except work) AND I don't check my voicemail regularly. Don't bother to IM me because we cannot IM at work. This was discussed a while back at company meeting.
If you really need to reach me, you can call me at home during night time or just pray for yourself and me. So yes, don't worry. I am not ignoring you. I am bad to everyone and it is equal opportunity…
If you think it is hard to reach me before, you have got yourself a treat.
I just cannot answer any personal emails at work because I have NO time. My group only has 3 people. Just this Monday, my coworker Erica decided to take months of leave of absence to pursue a research program at New Zealand. She is giving us 2 weeks notice but unfortunately the timing is horribly bad because all the projects are coming fast and furiously. Translation: I am SWAMPED and going crazy along with my boss.
Yes, we will need to hire help. In the mean time, if I don't answer emails, you know why. I doubt I will be answering emails at night because I am just so tired after work and probably just want to veg out in front of TV. Can you believe my stupid cold is coming back for the 3rd time? :(
If you don't know by now, if you do call me on my cell, it is basically trying your luck because I only carry my cell when I am out of my house (except work) AND I don't check my voicemail regularly. Don't bother to IM me because we cannot IM at work. This was discussed a while back at company meeting.
If you really need to reach me, you can call me at home during night time or just pray for yourself and me. So yes, don't worry. I am not ignoring you. I am bad to everyone and it is equal opportunity…
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