Since I last started talking about movies, some of my friends have been giving me some advice in this direction.
Cheap movies are a great 'lobang', considering that it is one of Singaporeans' favorite pastimes.
An obvious option is of course 'Video Ezy'
If u don't already know, once u become a parent, visits to the 'pictures' are really rare. Gone are the days when u can go for a midnight show, and be transported to another land for 2hours, without any worries. Hey! This is the world of Parenting!
Last nite, my member gave me another good 'lobang', if u want to watch movies for free. Check this site out.
A New Revelation
Robert Kiyosaki recently made a statement on CNBC that the price of oil will probably go up to US $100/ barrel .
Oil was probably in the mid $60 price range back then.
Just recently, the price of oil hit US $100/barrel.
Economists believe that prices can move due to expectations. I believe that when people of authority like Alan Greenspan and other financial gurus make such statements, it has a innate ability to drive up expectations and prices.
Imagine the power of confession if we know and realise our authority. If a mere man such as Alan Greenspan can drive the economy by 1 statement, How much more so for us Christians, when we know our authority in Christ.
God just said," Let there be light!"
Friday, November 30, 2007
Knowing & Undersanding More
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 10:44 PM 0 comments
Labels: church, Everyday Life
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Golden Village Gold Class
Just this week, Shing blessed me and my wife, with 2 complimentary tickets to watch a movie at GV's Gold Class cinemas.
At $25 a ticket, I was looking forward to my first visit to the 'pictures'.
Thinking that at such prices, we would have the cinema to ourselves, I was very, very wrong!
Once u walk pass the main entrance, u realise that there are many Expats and Singaporeans who are ready to pay for such an experience. Each cinema holds about 60 seats, but the halls were always completely sold out.
As we sat in the lounge (It's like going for a SQ flight), we were given a menu.
Items available ranged from soup all the way to a 'Gold Class Burger'. If u were really hungry, a set meal will set u back by an additional $25 dollars.
Thinking that something here must be free (as the tickets were so expensive), I asked the waitress, "Is there anything here, that is complimentary?"
She replied," Only warm and cold water!"
Man! At $25 a ticket, I thought that they would at least give me free-flow popcorn and coke. I was really wrong!
We ordered some refreshments and the waitress said that she would bring it to our seats later. My wife remarked that, the next time we watch a movie, she can bring the food to my seat as well!
The best thing about the cinema were the reclining seats. Imagine an 'Osim' Chair without the massage module. The chair had a leg rest, and a remote on the side, which made the chair recline to near 180 degrees.
My wife enjoyed the chair and the complimentary blanket best! That's her pictured above, catching some sleep before the movie started.
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 1:42 AM 0 comments
Labels: Everyday Life
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
My little Donut!
2 1/2 year old Nic shocked Grandma today. When PoPo (Grandma in Cantonese) asked her, "Which donut do you want?"
Grandma was just expecting her to point or to just gesture wildly.
Instead, Nic replied confidently, in her cheeky smile, "Double Chocolate!"
Isn't it amazing, how quickly our children pick up things.
In fact, one of Nic's 1st few words in her vocabulary was "French Fries" - Not that I blame her! Mum is still upset with me for introducing to her such 'healthy' food!
Well, she seems to be getting more of her 'Double Choc' these days, as the queues have been slowly 'thining' in Suntec!
Looks like the donut craze in Singapore, is slowly dying down.
But I am sure, that we Singaporeans will soon find something to queue for soon! :)
Something else worth going crazy about, is the Breakaway Camp!
4 more days to Breakaway Monday!
We have 150 people going so far, so it is going to be a really fun event!
This weekend in Jurong, the church will also be giving out free Donuts.
If u are entitled to 1, pls go for a 'Double Chocolate'.
It's every little gals' dream!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 12:43 AM 1 comments
Labels: Parenting
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Is EQ really important?
History shows us that teams who succeed, are not just a bunch of individuals.
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 12:24 AM 0 comments
Labels: church, Leadership
Monday, November 26, 2007
Sambal or Samba Chicken
I did not know that until yesterday! So guys, U can now safely say that u have tried African food!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 12:53 AM 1 comments
Labels: Everyday Life
Sunday, November 25, 2007
My Telly Tubbies!
Today, I had some free time with the kids in the morning. So, I decided to give both of them a bath together!
The kids just loved the idea of playing with water. Nic was so excited about the bath, that she was taking off her clothes, as we headed for the toilet!
Don't u think Nathan looks like the "Marshmallow Man" from 'Ghostbusters!' or the 'Michelin Man' (Michelin is a brand of tyres)?
Eating Habits
Nic is in love with Lays Potato Chips. As it is not really healthy, and because I want her to have a great figure when she grows up, I try to moderate her eating habits.
The other day, when she was not looking, I 'popped' into the kitchen quietly to eat some chips. Little did i know, a little gal was following close behind me.
The moment I stuffed a few chips into my mouth, Nic peeped into the kitchen.
She tilt her head, smiled at me cheekily, and said "Daddy, what are you doing?"
At that moment, my flesh got to me, and I had to lie, "Er..nothing!"
"Oh Father, Forgive me, I have sinned!"
Looks like I got to more responsible with my eating habits as well, if I want to mentor my daughter!Btw, it's 7 more days to Breakaway Camp! Let's keep on praying for Revival!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 12:01 AM 0 comments
Labels: Parenting
Saturday, November 24, 2007
My team is Out!
I am quite a soccer fan if u don't already know. So it was very disappointing for me to wake up on Thur morning. and find out that my "Beloved England" is out of the European Championship!
The Euro Championship is the European equivalent of the 'World Cup'. With the English team's exit, it looks like I will be left without a favorite team to support next June. What a 'Bummer!'
To get to more serious things, the 'Top Dogs' of the MDA (Media Development Authority) just recently released a video of themselves doing a 'Rap'.
Quite revolutionary if u ask me, considering that the rappers are in the late 40s and have no sense of rhytmn or groove at all. It's just like your Principal or CEO doing a Rap!
Out of the box? Unfortunately, reviews were mixed and not very favourable.
Just saw the video today.
It is not exactly very 'entertaining' but I say '10' points for trying.
I feel that people just need to be more encouraging, when especially when someone tries something new and different.
I guess this is their version of 'Crossing Over!'
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 1:53 AM 0 comments
Labels: Everyday Life, Video
Friday, November 23, 2007
Funny moments in life!
Every time when i carry the kids, I will pray over their lives, and proclaim the promises of God over them.
The other day, as I was carrying Nic, I got Nic to rehearse the promises together with me.
I asked Nic. "Are u blessed?". She replied "Yes, I am blessed!"
I asked Nic, "Do u have favor?" To my surprise, she put her hand on her forehead and replied, "NO! Daddy, I do not have FEVER!"
Aunty Weng and I immediately smiled and chuckled...Ah!...it is those little moments, that make parenting such a joy!
Recently, I stumbled upon something interesting in the papers.
This columnist who is probably in her late 20s, received a "friend" request from her mum, as she logged on to 'Facebook'. Can u imagine that?
This was followed by an instant message window which popped up on her screen with a command.
"Be my friend", it said.
Please take note! U have been warned! This may happen to you soon. :)
I think that facebook is really catching on...everyone seems to be getting 'poked' or 'chumped' regularly these days.
Statistics from 'Facebook' say that the number of visitors to the site has increased in all age groups. An interesting statistic is this:
Since April 2006
In the 45 to 54 age group - users increased by 63%
In the 54 to 64 age group - users increased by 83%
In the 18 to 24 age group - users increased by 30%
It seems that older people are really getting more net savvy. Maybe one day, we can add a minister of parliament as a friend as well! Won't that be radical!
To end off, check out this facebook video I found.
I like one part of the lyrics which says: " I used to meet gals at the mall, now I just wait for them to write on my wall!".
What is this world turning to? Looks like we are going to have a 'Facebook' wedding in the near future!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 1:13 AM 1 comments
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Macdonald's New Sandwich
Its cost is down to Wagyu beef that make up most of the filling.
Wagyu cattle are one of the most expensive in the world, as they are raised on a special diet of beer and grain.
Don't think i will ever pay for this sandwich. The papers are calling it the sandwich for the 'Snobs'.
But, talking about food, let's talk about something more affordable.
Just the other day, we celebrated Michele and Suting's birthday (Happy Birthday Gals!). We bought this cake from a private cake shop (He operates from his house), and his creations are really very tasty. Check out his blog!
We ordered a durian cake that was a real hit. It is shaped like a durian and it had real durians in it. I ordered this cake a few times already, as it really goes well with parents and in-laws who are durian lovers. My wife tells me that the chocolate cake is really good as well.
She actually stumbled upon the cake blog, and we took a chance, as she ordered the cake by faith. When we saw the creator, who is only a youth in his 20s, she thought that she was the victim of fake marketing. But to our surprise, his creations are really great, and it is really a must try.
Would also like to take this opportunity to say Congratulations to Juner, who just delivered Baby Denzel into this world.
Welcome to the World of Parenting!
I am sure that u will enjoy your new adventure!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 3:45 PM 0 comments
Labels: Everyday Life, food
Monday, November 19, 2007
Rising Divorce Rates
Was flipping through "The New Paper" today and came across an interesting article.
In 2006, divorces and annulments hit a record high of 7061 in Singapore.
20 years ago, this figure was just 2608.
Counselors say that the problem with this generation, is their mindsets.
Comments like, 'I don't like his personal habits' or 'I don't like how much he spends,' are regular reasons for breakups.
A family counselor says that "In the older days, it was more about 'family', Now, it's more about 'ME'.
Therefore when young people get married, they find it hard to adjust from 'me' to 'we'.
I guess that's why Jesus teaches that whoever wants to be first, must first be a servant. In fact, Jesus goes on to use a stronger word. He says that we must be a slave.
This means no longer living for ourselves, but living our lives for others!
Therefore, for marriages to succeed, couples need to start living for each other, rather than themselves.
On a lighter note, let me introduce you to some American culture. I stumbled upon this video about 'The Osmonds' this week.
These group of brothers were the very 1st "boy band" in the 1960s & 70s. They were very popular in America and later 2 of the siblings Donny and Marie Osmond, even had their own hit TV show.
One of their hits 'Love me for a reason' was remixed by 'Boyzone'. Check out the original in the video below (the fans haven't changed much!):
Anyway, to cut the long story short, recently their father died.
The grandchildren decided to come together and sing a tribute to Grandpa. Even for this second generation, they are really very musical, and if u luv music, u will probably like the harmonies of this song. Enjoy!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 3:58 PM 0 comments
Sunday, November 18, 2007
City Harvest Church Sunday Service
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 11:46 PM 0 comments
Labels: church, City Harvest Church
Saturday, November 17, 2007
My 1st Parents-Teachers Meeting
Nic is currently enrolled in a pre-school and after 3 months of school, we had our 1st P.T. Meeting. As it was a first for Daddy,Mummy and Nic, we did not know what to expect.
However, going in to the meeting, we were suprised by our 1st report card (Nic is only 2.5 years old, if u are asking). That's the report card, in the picture above.
Isn't she adorable!!....Like so cute rite!!!
Mummy likes the Harry Potter picure (they celebrated Halloween at school), I like the picture of her playing the violin (ala Vanessa Mae). She looks so serious and focused, like she can really do it!
Besides the pictures that really warmed our hearts, we were also glad to hear that Nic is doing well at school. Her teachers find her outgoing and independent, and rather advanced as compared to her contempories who are 12 months older. They said that she was also very popular in school, as even kids from other classes knew who she was! (Hee Hee... That's my gal!)
Her Chinese teacher, said that her Chinese is improving (Hallelujah to that!), and that she is beginning to string words together already. Mum is worried though, as her Chinese has that "Ang Moh" twang. Well, we can't have it all, especially when we don't use chinese at home!
Overall, we really enjoyed the meeting, as it's always good to hear positive feedback! :)
Btw, thanks for all the tags about names starting with 'N'. The latest update is that my wife really likes Nadine.
But do keep tagging, and giving me your comments and names starting with 'N'. We will definitely consider them!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 6:56 PM 0 comments
Labels: Parenting
Friday, November 16, 2007
My Baby
Just this week, my wife and I made our periodic visit to the gynecologist.
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 2:11 AM 3 comments
Labels: Parenting
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Breakaway is Coming!
Guess what!!! The Breakaway camp is just 2 weeks away!!!
If you are looking for something different, something really fun and fulfilling, you got to sign up for this camp!
Camps are pages in your life that you will never forget. They are times, where u get to get to meet new people, enjoy the great outdoors, and soak in the presence of God!!!
Really Cool, if u ask me!
Personally, after organising quite a few camps, I still enjoy every one of them! As it is really a time where I really get to know my younger CG members better (after all, I am only a few years older!..hee..hee!)
But more importantly, it is also a time where God moves in a mighty way, and where members get a serious encounter with God! Dreams and visions are birthed, and many decide to to rise up as Cell Group Leaders!
In fact, many of the facilitators in this years' camp, used to be participants as well.
So, if u are going for this camp, or if u are going to sign up really soon, start believing!
Start Believing that after this camp, u are going to be mightily changed by God!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 1:10 AM 0 comments
Labels: church, City Harvest Church
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Different Folks, Different Strokes!
Just when u thought, that u mastered the parenting thing, No. 2 comes along and debunks your theories!
Nathan is so..so..different from Nicole! That's him stretching out for the guitar, while daddy is practising. He seems to love the guitar more than his sister, and like all boys, he loves to play the drums.
Hit any tabletop, with any form of uncoordinated rhytmn and u will see him smile! They may come from the same tree, but both of them are miles apart.
Some of the differences are:
- Nic is easier to put to sleep, but Nate will cry, for what seems like hours before he knocks off.
- Nic is getting fussy with her food, but Nate seems to want everything rite now!
- Nic was more mild when she as at Nate's age, but Nate seems to have a bit of a temper, especially when u don't give him enough attention.
Actually, it's just like in life. U just can't treat everybody the same! As i began to love the both of them, I just have to realise that both of them have individual needs.
I need to adjust, if I want to be a better father!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 12:50 AM 0 comments
Labels: Parenting
Monday, November 12, 2007
Teacher Curriculum - Top teacher shares his secrets!
Just saw a show by Matthew Perry called "The Triumph" on the Hallmark Channel. I know..I know...many of u are saying, isn't that a really lousy channel!..like there is nothing ever great on that channel!...But tonight, things were different!
In this true story, Matthew Perry (aka Chandler Bing on the sitcom "Friends") plays this really "Out of the box" teacher (Ron Clark), who has a really great passion to teach. He uses music to teach his 6th graders Algebra and Grammar. His passion for his job brings him to really get into the lives of the 12 year olds, and his impact on them is phenomenal. From under-achievers, they began to become over-achievers, and the kids start having a dream to do something with their lives!
I think it's amazing how this teacher makes his curriculum so interesting and thought provoking. The children thorougly enjoy themselves as they learn something new, and I think that teacher is simply inspiring!
Kinda like being a CGL! A Cell Group Leader is given the same opportunities to make a difference in someone else's lives. Wow! isn't that an awesome privilege to make your live count like that!
I have a dream. I have a dream that I want to make the Bible come to life, like what Ron Clark did with Math! And inspire the next Pst. Kong to emerge among us!
Guys, if ordinary American kids can dream big dreams, let's not be afraid to dream bigger dreams!
Check out the videos i posted, to see Ron Clark in action!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 12:44 AM 0 comments
Labels: church, Leadership, Video
Saturday, November 10, 2007
My "Increase your General Knowledge Entry"
Pedra Branca
If u have been following the news lately, you would have heard about this island Pedra Branca being mentioned.
Who would have thought that an island, only big enough for a lighthouse, would create so much controversy.
Pedra Branca means "White Rock" in Portuguese. It commands the eastern approach to the Straits of Singapore, through which almost 900 ships past daily. That piece of information is of great significance, as it means that if the island is under the jurisdiction of Singapore, there will be less hindrance for our maritime trade.
In 1979, Malaysia published a map claiming the island - This has resulted in a need to settle this dispute approximately 2 decades later, in the International Court of Justice at Hague.
Isn't what they say true? It is the little details that do matter?
If u want to catch up on the issue, read The New Paper! It goes straight to the 'juicy' parts!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 12:05 AM 0 comments
Labels: Everyday Life
Friday, November 9, 2007
My Little Worshipper
Alone in the bedroom with the kids, I switched on the TV to distract Nic, and to make life easier for myself. Suddenly, she stood still when the CG started worship.
As she heard the worship song sung outside, Nic spontaneously lifted up her hands and started worshipping God in the room. The little gal just won daddy's heart as we both started worshipping God together :)
Lunch was together with the CG at Peperoni Pizzeria at Greenwood Ave (Behind NJC). Two Thumbs up to this place as it is one of the restaurants under the Les Amis Group (Chic high class french place at the Botanical Gardens/Shaw Centre).
The place is cosy and plastered with children's artwork - this really makes it feel like a family restaurant.
What's more is that they put us in a private room, which gave us our own privacy. I thought that was really cool!
Food wise, their pizzas are the thin crust type. If u order a family pizza, get at least 4 guys to share with u, as it comes in a large wooden slab that is half a normal office table (Costs about $44). My wife's favourite item on the menu is the cheese portabello mushroom. (Giant mushroom-size of clenched fist, deep fried with cheese and looked like a Chinese Yam cake).
Prices are nett, so they do not charge you service charge or GST. Gotta bring my leaders there soon!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 1:02 AM 2 comments
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Knowing Who u are?
Recently, I have been listening to a Podcast by Dr. A.R Bernard entitled Cycles of Temptation. U can check it out at http://www.clc.org/
Describing the 3 temptations of Christ, he highlighted the importance of the devil's first question to Jesus.
Luke 4:3
And the devil said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread."
The 1st question posed to Jesus, was a question about his identity. It challenged Jesus on who he believed he was. This is an important detail, as how u live your life, is determined by who u believe u are.
Jesus believed and knew that He is the Son of God, and it shaped how He lived His life.
If your identity is shaped by your company, by your postion and ranking, you will find your life being poured into the company. If your life and identity is shaped by your friends, you will find out that negative+positive comments made by them, have a significant impact on your actions.
Kinda remembered when I was younger. When my life and actions were determined by fashion and clubbing. Clothes and the things of this world just can't occupy what needs to be filled inside!
Btw, Pst Kong is on Benny Hinn's- "This is your Day!" television program. It is the most widely watched Christian program in America, and on the Wed, Nov 7 broadcast, he tells the CHC story! That's really Cool!!! http://www.bennyhinn.org/
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 11:11 AM 0 comments
Labels: church, City Harvest Church, Ps. Kong Hee
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Nicole & Aunt Betty Crocker
Being a Man, I never knew or heard of Aunty Betty Crocker until today!
Nicole is down with fever, & as a result she did not go to school today. Frankly the fever thingy is not a very pleasant experience for both child and parent!
To elaborate:
One has to wake up in the middle of the night to sponge the poor girl. This is not exactly easy, when Nic screams at the top of the voice, as she finds herself in a tub of cold water (sponging is necesaary for toddlers when they experience a fever of 39 degrees or more)
As mummy spent the day with her, to make sure that she was recovering well-Aunt Betty Crocker (Brand of a cookie mix) was introduced to my little gal!
Nic loved to play with the dough, but as her hands were too small, instead of making nice round cookies, she kept on rolling out little hot dogs with her dough.
However, she thoroughly enjoyed beating her 1st egg, and hearing the timer go "ting!" as the cookies came out of the oven. With her eyes "opened-wide" in excitement, she was definitely 1 hungry cookie!
At press time, the fever is back, and we will be bringing her to see the doc tomm. Praying that she will get well soon!
BTW, for all your parents out there, check out the video below. Its really funny! Hoping my children will have Becky's confidence when she grows up as well.
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 1:28 AM 0 comments
Monday, November 5, 2007
My sudden interest in the Internet "connect" world was sparked off by Facebook!
Reading a recent "Money" article, I found out that Microsoft bought into facebook for US$240 million (1.6% stake). Currently, facebook is valued at US$15 Billion with 9 million users. Not bad at all for 3 Harvard college lads who founded the site in their hostel!
I was further encouraged to venture into this new world, by some adults in another CG, who mentioned that they were actively involved in this world.
I logged in, and after my 1st poke, 1st egg, 1st vampire suck, and pitting my IQ with the countries of the world application - I can say that, I am hooked!
In the upcoming weeks, I will be going out with my long lost Sec. school mates, JC mates, and I even got a reunion with my University mates in the horizon.
For those of us in this revolution, check out the hiliarious parody in the video below!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 6:45 PM 0 comments
Labels: Everyday Life, Video
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Rev. Kong Hee - Arise n Build Weekend
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 7:51 PM 0 comments
Labels: church, City Harvest Church, Ps. Kong Hee
Friday, November 2, 2007
Nicole's Growing Up!
If u don't know what Nic is like...She is only 2.5yrs and very shy with strangers. She really takes some time to warm up to new people and as my wife's Cg members have found...that if u want to win her really fast...chocolates and sweets go a LONG WAY!!!
Yesterday, one of our colleagues who is really good with kids and who has a daughter called Chyanne invited Nicole over to her place. Only thing is that Nicole has only been to her place once, and that was probably 6 mths ago (In baby years, that is a long time!). What's more Chyanne is not her regular playmate as she does not hang out in the same nursery as her!
Nicole suprised me by saying, YES! she wants to go over to Chyanne's place. After explaining to her, that Daddy, Mummy & Auntie Weng (our Maid) will not be going, as we will be at CG & she will be all alone, she still said Yes!, she wants to go.
I told myself..YA right!...when it comes to the crunch, she will probably cry...she does not know what she's talking about!!! But mummy looked at me & said, "This time, I think she can!"
I'm sorry but i felt like the man with the sick son who said to Jesus-"Lord I believe, but help my unbelief!!!"
Even as we went to the carpark, Nic said that she was ok and wanted to go! As it dawned on us that she really meant it, our faces changed, we looked like 3 worried parents leaving their little precious for the 1st time. As we strapped little Nicole into our colleague's car seat, we felt we were taking new steps into unexplored territory.
As she waved her little hand at us and said goodbye, leaving us in the carpark, I felt I was like my mum with watery eyes, saying goodbye to me as i sat in the 3 tonner at CMPB. My little girl is going for her 1st pyjama party without Daddy, Mummy and her Nanny. With that, I held little Nathan in my arms & i said, "There's only u left Today!...."
That's little shy Nicole in the photo after we picked her up from the house! She made it thru without crying and today..our parenting crossed a new boundary!!!
PS-To Nic: When u grow old enough to read & understand this entry, Daddy & Mummy just want to say that We luv u and we are so proud of U!!!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 1:46 AM 0 comments
Labels: Parenting
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Gearing up for Studies
Just got News about my Timetable for next year....Will be studying my Masters Program in Trinity Theological College in Jan. next yr. Have not been writing for too long, so got to get used to putting my thoughts on paper again.
Its going to be 3 times a week for my 1st semester & it is also a 3 yr challenge. That's a long time...Might be a father of 4 by then? :) Please...don't quote me on that!
This weekend is Arise & Build...got my amount...I wrote it last week...Got tears in my eyes when i put it into the blue bucket. Something is happening in the Spiritual realm...Felt the faith that I had in the Hollywood days!
Posted by Ed or Edmund Tay at 1:24 AM 0 comments
Labels: church, Everyday Life