Placidity of Mind

Something Inspirational

2009-03-27T01:48:00.000-07:00

Drawing from some of the most pivotal points in his life, Steve Jobs, chief executive officer and co-founder of Apple Computer and of Pixar Animation Studios, urged graduates to pursue their dreams... Happy viewing...

I'm feeling grossed out

2009-03-20T01:55:00.000-07:00

TGIF!!! I'm really grossed out!! I have been sick for the past two weeks, down with ulcer and fever...

These few days I feel tired and exhausted. I think the body is fighting to recover. I hope to rest over the weekend.

Vesshnu left for NPCC, 3 days 2 nite camp. It's strange that I didn't really miss him this time round. I guess it's all part of growing up. I sense that he is growing up and I need to give him the space too. Too much of attachment may lead to lots of expectations :-)

Yet, I'm looking forward to see him tomorrow...I'm already thinking what should I cook for him since he would have missed home cooked food.....mothers!!

Well....it got me thinking of what is balance sheet of life....

BALANCE SHEET OF LIFE.

The happiness of life is made of little things

- a smile, a hug,a moment of shared laughter

- its not the wealth you amass but what you give to others & the lives you touch that you take with you for eternity!

Our Birth is our Opening Balance!
Our Death is our Closing Balance!
Our Prejudiced Views are our Liabilities
Our Creative Ideas are our Assets
Heart is our Current Asset
Soul is our Fixed Asset
Brain is our Fixed Deposit
Thinking is our Current Account
Achievements are our Capital
Character & Morals, our Stock-in-Trade
Friends are our General Reserves
Values & Behaviour are our Goodwill
Patience is our Interest Earned
Love is our Dividend
Children are our Bonus Issues
Education is Brands / Patents
Knowledge is our Investment
Experience is our Premium Account

The Aim is to Tally the Balance Sheet Accurately.

The Goal is to get the Best Presented Accounts Award.

Holiday - Los Angeles

2009-03-10T23:18:00.000-07:00

Las Vegas

On our way to Grand Canyon - we pass the dessert area

Sunset at Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon - can you see the river?

Close to sunset at Grand Canyon

Sky view from Universal Studio

Universal Studio

Another Sky view

Does it look familiar? Desperate Housewives!!

Am I back?

2008-11-29T01:36:00.001-08:00

Guess, these days I'm getting tired of blogging. Perhaps because I have been away for sometime, lots of work or perhaps plainly lazy...

Let's see if I can update from now...

There is so much of happenings from Oct 08 till today? Where to begin???

Hmmm...I should post some nice pictures taken in Los Angeles and Las Vegas....

Hopefully, I will pick myself up from now....

See you....

What happened??

2008-10-02T22:58:00.000-07:00

Hmmm....I just realised that I didn't blog for 5 weeks. What happened?? Guess, too many issues in the month of Sep 08....let's see

1. Vesshnu's birthday - celebrated on 2 Sep. It so sad! I posted all other birthdays with photos but missed Vesshnu's. We did a homam at home to celebrate his birthday. Kept it simple within family. We bought him MP4 player but confiscated it after a week because we felt that he was not focusing in his studies...bad parents!!

2. That week I was on leave, spent my time with both the boys,watched two movies with my husband. So I could not find time to blog..what an excuse :-)

3. The following week, I went for a scope...to check on my ulcer. It was quite bad that I was on medical leave the whole week too.

4. From that week onwards, I was busy with Bala Gurukulam. As there were only 3Sundays left for Bala Gurukulam - busy for the Ganesha Chaturthi, mass homam and presentation for children. So many things to prepare, even during lunch I had to work on these stuff.

5. Next was "Maid"...I had to find good agency whom can find a suitable maid to replace my current maid. Well, finally found one...likely to come in before Deepavali and hope she works for our family.

6. Work in office is increasing too, mult-task many issues.

7. Finally, preparing Vesshnu for PSLE..not an easy task to get boys to stay focus.

Well, I found some time today...thot' of saying something about the happenings.....By next week, everything should resolve..PSLE will be over..then my focus will be on Deepavali and the new maid...

Midlife Men

2008-08-14T20:25:00.000-07:00

Hmm.... I came across this website: http://www.midlife-men.com/

I have been hearing complains afters complains from most of my friends, well that includes myself too...hahaha. Here is something to help IMS men...to read more, please visit the website.

15 ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE TO HELP AN IMS (IRRITABLE MALE SYNDROME) MAN IN DENIAL

1. Recognize that he is hurting but feels stuck. Remember that his irritability and anger are covering over his hurt and fear.

2. Take a step back. You can't push him to change. He can make changes only when he is ready. You can step back only if you can keep yourself from panicking. This is a good time to tell someone you trust about what is going on.

3. Recognize your own feelings and fears about the situation. What are his actions triggering in you? Are you feeling angry? Do you want to fight back? Do you feel inadequate? Are you wondering what you did wrong? Are you afraid that he's going to leave - or that you will?

4. Slow down. Take care of yourself. Don't make any decisions while you are in a panic. Remind yourself that no matter how important your relationship is, it is not the only aspect of your life. There are other people who are important to you, and there are other things that give you pride and pleasure.

5. Find your own place of emotional safety so you don't let yourself feel battered by his stormy moods. Tell yourself over and over again, "I am not the target. These are his feelings of pain and powerlessness." What he is saying or doing, no matter how hurtful, is not a statement about you or your adequacy.

6. Never listen to what he thinks about you. Listen for how he feels. Judgment and blame are only cover-ups for his feelings and unmet needs. Words can be deeply wounding. When men experience the Irritable Male Syndrome, they may say things that can be very hurtful. For instance, an IMS male may say, "Damn it, can't you ever do anything right? Are you really that stupid?" You can think, "I must be a lousy wife" or "He's a vicious, mean bastard." Or you can say to yourself, "I wonder if he's feeling enraged because he needs support or comfort or understanding."

7. Let him know you are aware that he is in pain and you are open to listening to what is on his mind, when he is ready. Irritable males seem to be doing everything they can to push people away, yet they want more than anything to be understood. Like angry children, they want to know that you are there, that you won't be driven away, and that you will listen when they are ready.

8. Suggest walking and talking. Men often open up more easily when they are communicating "side by side" rather than "face to face." Sitting down and talking about what is going on might not be the best way to reach them. Men tend to be "doers," not "discussers." They often find it easier to talk when they are doing something (throwing a ball, fixing a car, walking) and when they are not looking into someone's eyes. To women, eye contact provides a feeling of nurturing and support. It often makes men feel that they have been put on the spot, so they become defensive and withdrawn.

9. Let him know that you care about him and that you know he cares about you. Ask him if he'd be willing to listen, without responding, for five minutes while you tell him how his irritability and blame make you feel. Share your own needs for safety, self-esteem, intimacy, and love.

10. Get help and support from friends and family. Don't try to solve the situation by yourself. You may feel ashamed to ask for help. You may want others to know the man in your life is acting the way he is. He may be telling you, directly or indirectly, not to tell anyone about what is going on. Don't give in to the fear; reach out to people. Be good to yourself.

11. Seek out a counselor, if necessary, who can help you work with your feelings and suggest ways to work with the IMS man. Sometimes you need more than the support of friends and family. Professional help may be necessary. Many times, people hold back, thinking, "If he won't go for help, what's the use?" Getting help for yourself may be the first step in breaking destructive cycles and getting help for him.

12. If you are seeing a counselor, request that he call the IMS man and ask him to come in to help you and the family. Often, a man has trouble asking for help for himself but will go in to help a woman and children. Even teens and young men will often go if they think their thoughts will be heard and they can help others. It helps a man's self-esteem to know that he is doing something good, even if he feels confused and angry inside.

13. Tell him, and remind yourself, that you are both on the same side. The problem isn't you or him. The problem is his irritability and anger that are caused by his unmet needs. Let him know that you are committed to working with him to find out what those needs are and to help him meet them.

14. Don't give up. Create an atmosphere of safety. Invite him to join you in finding ways to create a better relationship for you both. If he doesn't respond, pull back. Approach again at another time.

15. Be firm. Let him know you love him but you aren't going to give up on your own happiness. Tell him things need to change and you want him to join with you in making a life that works for both of you.

One thing for sure...it's not going to be easy with Indian Men..hahaha

Mom vs Child

2008-08-06T19:26:00.000-07:00

Hmmm...this morning Vesshnu upset me over some issues....

Well....I guess this is what I got when I was reading some old e-mails from friends...how true....

Images Of Mother from the standpoint of a child at that age....

* 4 Years Of Age
My Mommy can do anything!

* 8 Years Of Age
My Mom knows a lot! A whole lot!

* 12 Years Of Age
My Mother doesn't really know quite everything

* 14 Years Of Age
Naturally, Mother doesn't know that, either

* 16 Years Of Age
Mother? She's hopelessly old-fashioned

* 18 Years Of Age
That old woman? She's way out of date!

* 25 Years Of Age
Well, she might know a little bit about it

* 35 Years Of Age
Before we decide, let's get Mom's opinion

* 45 Years Of Age
Wonder what Mom would have thought about it?

* 65 Years Of Age
Wish I could talk it over with Mom

A Leap Of Faith With a Little help from all of you !!!

2008-07-28T20:43:00.000-07:00

I met a pretty lady who happen to be one of my student's mother. Somehow, we clicked well in our first meeting. After sometime she shared with me that she has a dream of publishing a book on her demise son. Initially, I thought it was just a miscarriage or something else but...

Last Friday when I called the parents to remind them about the outing on Sunday, I learnt that she lost her 2 1/2 years old son due to some rare genetics condition. She is so inspired to write a book about him. She is hoping to print about 30,000 books and use part of the proceed to sustain her society and bring help parents who have children with similar problem.

I came across many mothers who lost their children due to stillborn, accidents and miscarriage...
most of them still have not overcome from their past. This lady, Devi, is rare mother. She wants to make a difference. When I spoke to her, she is fully of enthusiasm to do something for her son. She even shared that at times she wants to discontinue but somehow someone will come forward to give a small token or encourage her not to stop.

Yesterday, she sent me an e-mail about her son, Satish. This is the last step to find someone to sponsor her and make her dream come true. It is a promise which she made to her son. When I read the story about her child, tears just rolled down. If that would have happen to me, I think I would be devastated.

For me.....
If someone old leaves, I take it as he or she has lived lived to the fullest.
If babies leaves the mother womb, it is the pain for the mother but he/she can overcome it when another child arrives
If a child leaves, it is the greatest pain....as the mother or father been there to nurture it, to see the smile, to see it utter the first word, to see the little tricks of the innocence ones....

Well, it's easy to say that soul is immortal, some say it reaches heaven, some say babies usually becomes angel...whatever

In reality, when this fatal happens to any parents....it's really painful.

Well, here is a little bit which I can do....below is his photo and the appeal by his mum.....

Would you like to make a difference in this ladies life?

Dear Friends,

I’m Devi. I am mother of the boy.

My son Satish had an incurable, most rare genetic condition. He lived for 2 and half years before leaving us on 30 Nov 2005.

For the past two years I have been writing his memoir and it’s in the final stages of publishing.

You're probably thinking that this is a very unusual way to start a letter and that I'm committing suicide by telling you about the saddest part of my life.

You may even know the feeling, as anyone who has lost their loved one should the pain and the unbearable circumstances to lose a child.

So why am I telling you all this...?

Well, because I think that you are worth every effort to be spending my valuable time with. I know that you will never cease to help someone who is trying to help others.

Losing a child and still wanting to help other parents …I have just started a society – Rare Genetics Network (Singapore) with a group of parents. And we need funds to sustain the society.
As for the first project to create awareness in the public, I am coming up with the memoir. We are hoping to print 30,000 copies. Some percentage of the sales of the book will be going to the society.

Please be a part of the story that gives hope and inspiration to anyone who is purchasing the book and receive the blessings of the children who are out there suffering from rare genetic conditions.

You could reach me at 31109888 / 98553161or or email me at – deviahru@gmail.com

This is not a prankster joke or a scam, this is a rare opportunity to help create awareness for children dying of rare genetic condition.

Warmest Regards
Ms Devi Ahru
President of Rare Genetics Network (Singapore)
Visit us at: http://www.raregenes.org/

To make your contributions to our society -
Please write the cheque to -
Rare Genetics Network (Singapore)

To make contribution to the publishing and launching of the memoir -
Please write the cheque to -
Sun Rise Empire Pte.Ltd.

Your contribution is very valuable to us. All sponsors names will be published in the book. (no matter what the amount is ....)

We are very grateful that you have taken your time to read this.

We will deliver the memoir to you ..personally if possible once published in December .

( We are aiming to print 30,000 copies )

Thanks a Million !! God Bless all Of US !!

Vitesh takes photos

2008-07-22T01:44:00.000-07:00

Last week, we were getting ready to temple. Vitesh hardly wears indian traditional outfit, so when I put one on him, he got excited.

He told his brother "Is it nice Anna?"..Then Vesshnu said "Yes".

Vitesh then said "Come, let's take photo! Amma, take photo"

So I took our the camera to took a photograph of both the boys....he quickly hugged his Anna and posed to the camera. Then I took a photo with him.

It was very candid of him to say "Amma, let me take you with Anna".

He took the camera and took a shot of us. It was not that clear but I really admire his guts to come forward to such thing at 3 1/2 years.....

Take a look

I took the 1st photograph....

Veshnu took this....

Vitesh took this....

Interesting findings of creation with human

2008-07-14T18:09:00.000-07:00

A friend sent me these info via e-mail. Found it interest, so decided to post it today. Look at Ishwara's creation....such amazing clues for us to ponder. Happy reading!!

A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye... and YES, science now shows carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes.

A Tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red. All of the research shows tomatoes are loaded with lycopine and are indeed pure heart and blood food.

Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.

A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help develop more than three (3) dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.

Kidney Beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.

Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb and many more look just like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. These foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.

Avocadoes, Eggplant and Pears target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female - they look just like these organs. Today's research shows that when a woman eats one avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight, and prevents cervical cancers. And how profound is this? It takes exactly nine (9) months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit. There are over 14,000 photolytic chemical constituents of nutrition in each one of these foods (mo dern science has only studied and named about 141 of them)

Figs are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow. Figs increase the mobility of male sperm and increase the numbers of Sperm as well to overcome male sterility.

Sweet Potatoes look like the pancreas and actual ly bal ance the glycemic index of diabetics

Olives assist the health and function of the ovaries

Oranges, Grapefruits, and other Citrus fruits look just l ike the mammary glands of the female and actually assist the health of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts

Vesshnu in action

2008-07-08T19:44:00.000-07:00

Vesshnu went for his Aikido grading - Red belt. My husband accompanied him. He commented that Vesshnu could not even do any somersault....guess his belly must have affected him badly...hehehe. It's time to shed some kilos. We have started going to the gym lately. He seems to enjoy his first experience in the gym. However, he prefers the park to the gym as he can run and do whatever he likes. Boys are boys....

Interesting People

2008-07-08T02:20:00.000-07:00

Hmmm...I'm in the mood to analyse people these days....hope I'm not judging anyone.....

I know of a friend who has been a compulsive liar. I didn't realise until someone highlighted it to me. Since then, I started observing every movement. Well, I am really surprise how can one lie to the extreme to seek sympathy from people. Is there a need to lie? She claimed that she is lonely, somehow a slightest tear cause many hearts to go to her. She has a good life and almost anything she wants. Everyone sees her as an important person and yet she seems not happy. Well, I guess her definition of "happiness" is different. Thank god, I'm able to see all these without getting affected these days.

Another friend called me yesterday. She is disturbed because she badly wanted an upgrade and her employer approved for the internal interview. Unfortunately, just as she was all prepared to go all out for the interview with her new blouse etc, her employer broke the news that they want to offer the job to another colleague. She was very disappointed. Instead she was offered to take a loan for her degree programme for counselling which is not part of her job scope. Well, I told her to look at the positive side....it could be for better off. She seems to be convinced after talking to me 1/2 hour....hopefully she gets what she wants. Why are people so disturbed?

I came across an interesting blogger, he goes around commenting in other blogs and somehow people visits his blog too. However, his blog has only photos and photos but nothing much about him. When I'm free, I read what others comment about his works but somehow I'm not convinced if it's true or they are saying it to please him?? I am always puzzle about man with few words but express his nature through photos. What are they like? According to my lecturer when I did my psychology, these are the creative people who are not able to express their feeling to human, so they do it through painting, photos and pictures. Is it true?

I met another interesting lady....a very unique married woman who does not sleep with her husband and yet serve her husband without fail. She ensures his breakfast is prepared every morning, lunch is served if he is at home. She seems to be very contented. Her husband on the other hand too is fine with the arrangement. He only comes out to eat and he goes back into the room to watch his programme. They only communicate if there is a need. How can she survive? Can a man live like that forever. They are not old. If this happens to me, I probably divorce my husband or kill myself hahaha....

Finally, a new little gal student in the Balagurukulam class last Sun. She is so gentle, quiet and has such pleasant face. When I was teaching mantras and singing bhajans, she just tapped my lap and smiled at me. My heart just melt....she has a unique eyes.

So much of analysing people..maybe my mind is too free today or maybe I'm troubled today so I'm expressing myself through others..hahahaha....

Death

2008-06-23T19:43:00.000-07:00

One of my aunt passed away last Sunday. She has been suffering from cancer and doctor gave up on her eventually. She was counting her days and finally she departed. It was my first time getting involve in a showering and dressing the preta (body). Everybody was involved right from showering, dressing and I could see the teamwork. It was indeed a smooth transition where everybody prayed for her atma (soul).

It was my first experience going to the new crematorium too. I was amazed to see the high tech instrument used for the funeral. Everything was automatic. After some rituals done at parlour, the coffin moves automatically on the track and the door automatically opens to the next section. People were requested to move to the viewing gallery. You can then watch the coffin moving on the track and it moves to a forklift. When the forklift moves to next section, the spot-light in on. There you can see the coffin travelling through into the oven and you are watching it from a higher level.

It was a glimpse moment of myself. Yes, I just felt like I am in the place, the process is a glimpse of an individual destination one day. It was a reflection. What am I doing here? What is the purpose and my thoughts just went on. Why do people cry when we are immortal? Why do we cling to the body, the name when we know the atma(soul) is indeed immortal. What happens if my love ones die before me....
Will I blame God? Will I say it as "God's Plan"? or will I accept it as the person's karma?

I can only conclude that Death is inevitable. Every birth has it's death. If we can live one more day to see the world, do right action, have pure thoughts and speak the truth. One more thing...think of death at least once daily because that will make ones mind prepared

This morning...my day started with this saying ....

Only with the birth of the body do our worldly relations start and end with its death. But in each birth our relation with the Lord remains unchanged. Our present experience seems to be right the opposite and we are trying to make ever-lasting relations in the never-lasting world and thereby casting a spell of sorrows for ourselves. Understand and realise that our relation with the Lord is primary and permanent and all others are secondary and impermanent. Each individual has a primary relation with the Lord, whether he knows and accepts it or not. Ignorance of this is the cause of our suffering. - Swami Tejomayananda

Vesshnu and Vitesh

2008-06-19T02:01:00.000-07:00

Two cutie pies

Vitesh finally got a place in Sarada Kindergarten. The teachers were happy to see Vesshnu. Alice who was his music teacher is a the Vice Principal and Pushpa is the Principal. I'm very happy to see the both of them taking on the new roles. I could see Vesshnu too is excited to see his little brother going to "his" school.

Yesterday, something strange happened. Vesshnu said he is beginning to dislike his brother because of the maid. I was kind of puzzle. So, I asked him over and again what was really bothering him. Finally he broke. It seems, my maid doesn't allow Vesshnu to do anything for Vitesh. Guess, my maid wants to do things herself for her convenience. When children take up responsibility, it can turn messy. So, when he is angry or upset with the maid, he shows to his little brother.

I asked him, what will it be like if I showed the same tantrum to him when I'm angry or upset with people around me. So, finally he agreed that he will change provided he can have more responsibilities to take care his brother. We wants to feed, make milk and do other things for his cutie pie.

I told the maid to allow him to do whatever he likes but if he messes up, let me know instead of telling him off.

It's a reflection....when we grow up our mom, we help her take care our siblings in some way. Yet, as we grow up, the sibling have difference and sometimes they draw apart or even break their ties.

Nowadays children grow up with maids more than parents. As a parent, I'm try my best to give undivided attention when I'm at home. I wonder whether there will be love and understanding between siblings when they are adult. What is going to happen to future?

I'm glad that Vesshnu has a matured mind to identify his faults and able to voice out to me. I'm proud of him...

What's happening...

2008-06-11T22:13:00.000-07:00

Hmmm....guess today is the a day that I could feel myself at some ease. I'm just bogged down with too much of "werk"...office work or hindu centre or home??? I would say everything. I have more professors to serve now....two more new PIs. Hmmm...got to help till end of this year. Next year we will be moving to our new building. At the new building each one of us will serve all the professors in that floor. Floor plan is still not finalised, so their are not sure which PI will be on which floor....so for now, "status quo" plus some new addition :-)

The moto "Be happy that you got a job!!"

Last Thursday brought Vitesh for Barney show...my husband got the front row tickets just because the cutie pie loves Barney. Unfortunately,Vitesh began to wail at Barney's appearance...it must have terrified him. Well, when the rest of the characters appeared, he was fine. We had fun all the back home...we walked through Suntec City and he was so excited with the fountains along the way...

A fun time with Vitesh

Last Sunday, I went to give another presentation in Youth Camp organised by Hindu Endowment Board, Hindu Centre and Youth Wing. I really had fun compared to giving presentation to adults..hehehe. They were a fun bunch though some didn't listen. Vesshnu helped in changin the slides in my presentation. He said he enjoyed the session. Later, he joined in some of the games and we ended up leaving at 11.30pm.

A fun time with Vesshnu

On Tuesday, both the boys and I went to watch The Kung-Fun Panda. Hilarious and awesome!! The movie makes you think how one can believe in himself...a panda being the dragon master?? Vitesh laughed so loud till everyone looked at him. It was really amusing. When we came out from the theatre it was raining cats and dogs. We had to ask the maid to bring us umbrella...thank god we are living close to these places
Fun with both boys

So much of fun time with children but seems I'm missing my time with my husband. He is so busy lately at work. Leaving to work at 5.45am and coming home at 11pm. We hardly spoke. He don't even have time to talk on the phone....lot of them are on leave this month and team is lack of manpower...so these guys have no choice. Hopefully, he could spent some time with us before the school re-opens.

Finally Relieved (I hope..)

2008-05-29T18:28:00.000-07:00

Well, the last I blogged was on 14 May....I was really tied down with many many issues...

Graduation
Finally I graduated. My transcript was kind of impressive...mostly As and Bs. That's a good achievement for mother of two (not easy to juggle many things at a time) ~ Self praise..hehehe. Vesshnu was very excited about the graduation ceremony. He took so many photos for this event. Well, I guess I'm an inspiration for my son. Anyway, I really have not found time to upload the photos yet. Hope to do next week.

My presentation
I'm left with one more week to go for the end of my presentation. It's not an easy topic as I have to touch on history. Well, I can't memorise everything to narrate them by heart. I got feedback that my presentation was indeed good with lots of pictures but too wordy in some of the slides. What can I do?? I dinch choose the topic. It was given or rather what was left for me.... :(
Probably, if the topic is close to my heart, I could have presented better. It's wokay, I shall take it positively. Anyway, I'm reserved again for 7 and 8 June...there is a youth camp organised by Hindu Ctr, Hindu Endowment Board and NUS. I have to give another presentation similar to this topic but packaged it for youth. I think I prefer this compared to teaching adults.

UnniKrishnan Show
Last Friday I attended the Unnikrishnan show. It was great show and I must comment that this singer has so much of stamina. He sang through from 7.45pm to 10.45pm with only minutes of break in between. The media interviewed some of us including myself. So, I came on air on Monday's Tamil news. I'm proud to represent Hindu Centre and share my experiences as a volunteer :-).

It has been a busy day in office too. I'm helping 2 professors here preparing their grants...not that easy. Oh yes...I had to do budget too. In MAS, I used the number section more than the alphabets as I work on statistics but here I use more word. These few day I have been punching number on my calculator and my finger began to ache..hehehe...too much right...Lunancy, I know what you will think when you read this..hehehe!

Anyway, today is Friday, a relax day and tommorrow, my dear friend Deva, a guy from Hindu Ctr...saw him grow with me as teenager and later we learned together during Diploma in Hindu Teaching Course. He is a very nice guy, humble and pleasant. Tomorrow is his wedding reception with this beautiful Banglore gal Vineesha...all the best for this couple.

Okie, I think I took a long break...better get back to my work :-)

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-10T16:55:00.001-07:00

Glitterfy.com - Glitter Graphics

I was thinking how should I send my wishes this year....well, I started scanning thru my cupboard and computer for as many mom pictures as I can. Well, for those mothers I know and for the those I don't know....here is a little reflection...

We have been the best mother for our children no matter what. We took the trouble to raise them with care and love in midst of our personal issues. We have always been impartial though sometimes we compare our children :-).

For some of us, our hard work is paid by the respect and love shown by our children but there are some who are unfortunate. They are abandoned by their children.....why? Have they gone wrong in their upbringing or have the children failed to value their mom. Today, let's take a moment to bless the mothers we know and we don't know.....let us give some thoughts to the ones who are unfortunate and sent them our heartfelt blessings...Happy Mother's Day!!!!

I'm feeling very anxious

2008-04-28T19:49:00.000-07:00

These days I can't bring myself to blog. I'm fully anxious over many things around me. Well, today I thought I should just write it somewhere and see if it helps.

1. Over the last 2 weeks, was very busy preparing the little ones for the last day of presentation. Finally, last Sunday it's ova. The little ones sang a Ganesha song. They look very cute. My son participated in a drama. He acted as mountain. That's very unlike of Vesshnu. I'm very pleased with his participation. We prepared goodie stuff for the effort by the children. The 'pot-luck' by parents too turn out well. The whole presentation went smoothly.

2. I'm now in midst of preparing my 1st public short course (4 classes in total) from 13th May onwards (every Tues). I'm scared to death as I'm going to do it on my own. Thinking about it already making me nervous. The topic "Hindu Temples outside India"

3. In between preparing for presentation, I also need to work with the syllabus team to come out with next semester's material for teachers. Thank god topics are identified...only compiling material. Deadline: 17th May

4. Vesshnu's SA1 begins next week. Need to give moral support and also help in Science too.

5. Besides all these, I'm also helping the Mitra Counselling group in their syllabus. It suppose to be group effort, but don't seem to be like that now. Thank god, they have requested by end June.

6. On 10th May, I'm graduating. Kind of excited about it and at the same time, anxious about the results. The group results are not out yet.

Everything falls in May..why?why?why? Stressssssssssssss

Okie, I feel better now...after thinking and listing. It helps :-) but not sure how long :-(

Okie, going back to work now.....

Morning Buzz

2008-04-14T00:12:00.000-07:00

Very interesting...one of my blogger friend asked this question: why is people in train (MRT) always look very sulky, unhappy especially on Monday morning?

As what I posted whatever we see around us a mirror of us. If I'm unhappy one morning, I will walk out from home with black face and whoever I see in train I will get annoyed and frustrated. A slight hit on my shoulder or even a someone step on toe when you are not in the mood....that's it!!! you will see smoke out of my ears :-)

So again, it's not the people around us. It's us...how we perceive the people around us.

Honestly, it's not easy but when you practise this you will be amazed to see how we see the world around. You may get slight irritation but it will subside fast. I'm still learning but it helps. These days when I get into train, I bring along my number click. I recite some mantra from the time I board Bishan to Dhoby Ghaut. A short walk to NEL, then I will listen to some nice songs till Outram. Finally, in Outram I switch to my favourite radio channel till office. No time to see others but some time to stay focused :-)

The House of 1000 Mirrors,

2008-04-07T01:56:00.000-07:00

Interesting.....came across this story after posting this morning......

Japanese folktale
Long ago in a small, far away village, there was place known as the House of 1000 Mirrors.

A small, happy little dog learned of this place and decided to visit. When he arrived, he bounced happily up the stairs to the doorway of the house. He looked through the doorway with his ears lifted high and his tail wagging as fast as it could. To his great surprise, he found himself staring at 1000 other happy little dogs with their tails wagging just as fast as his. He smiled a great smile, and was answered with 1000 great smiles just as warm and friendly. As he left the House, he thought to himself, "This is a wonderful place. I will come back and visit it often."

In this same village, another little dog, who was not quite as happy as the first one, decided to visit the house. He slowly climbed the stairs and hung his head low as he looked into the door. When he saw the 1000 unfriendly looking dogs staring back at him, he growled at them and was horrified to see 1000 little dogs growling back at him. As he left, he thought to himself, "That is a horrible place, and I will never go back there again."

All the faces in the world are mirrors.
What kind of reflections do you see in the faces of the people you meet?

It's been a year

2008-04-06T20:34:00.000-07:00

I have been very very busy these few days. Most of my professors are in town. Too many meetings, seminars and talks to arrange. Good news is that they will all dissappear by end of this week and I'll be a free bird for the next 2 weeks..yeah!!!

I had so much to blog but could not find time to shed my thots'. Well, I can proudly say that I have been blogging for the past 1 year....

I have learn new things through blogging
Met new friends
Shared new info while blogging
Express my emotions through blogging

I must specially thank my beloved friend Ratna who actually showed me how to blog as we were parting around this time last year...phew!!! Time really flies...I left my old place almost a year.

I remember in my 1st blog, I mentioned about my wedding anniversary....it just passed again..another year of bonding.

Every year, every moment there is something we reflect upon...LIFE. Last night my husband asked me an interesting question...."What is life?" I smiled at him and asked why...he said "Life is meaningless" ...hmm interesting right??

"Is life meaningless??" I asked him. He gave me a cool stare..hahaha.

Well, I smiled and said "life is like reflection...what you think at that moment, see at that moment, feel at that moment......that is you". At this moment, you are feeling life is meaningless because some experiences or thoughts made you think like that...nothin' else"

He must have thought I'm some nerd...he continued to stare at me. Okie, I told myself...don't say too much Shan..it will backfire.

So, calmly told him that whatever he is thinking and feeling takes place in the mind through a system called "Brain". If we are objective enough to see what's happening around us and why it particularly happens to "ME"...we will be able to find the answer because "WE HOLD THE KEY TO OUR MIND". I continued....we are all mould by own unique values and believes base on our upbringing through parents, teachers, society, religion and friends. Sometimes we try to impose our values and believes to others because we think it's good for them but it does not work that way. What works for us may not work for other...why? Because individual have their own "ego" including children.

Then I concluded and said "I don't to preach religion and psychology to you because you will start to tease me"....hehehe.

He smiled and said that it makes sense but it is not easy to change. Yes, I agree with him but also told him that change begins from one who wants it. Then you will see the difference :-)

Guess....that will let him ponder about the statement he made.

Coming back...hopefully I'm able to blog the next few days

Lunch time now...cheerio!!

The Leap Years

2008-03-06T18:13:00.000-08:00

Last night I watched The Leap Years with my husband. It's really difficult to get men to go out to watch movies these days..at least for me.

Well, story line was alright. Quite good for a local movie. Wong Li Lin (Li-Ann) was stunting as usual and Ananda (Jeremy) was really handsome.

What I like about the story?

The years during school-days... When one imagine how will the man of the love would look like....
I began to recall mine too...hahaha. It amuses me to think how stupid we were to put the opposite sex name to ours and strick off the same alphabets and then with the balance alphabets trying to identify if he will the love, hate, friendship or nothing...

Back to the story... In 3rd leap year when Jeremy wanted to explain his situation but Li-Ann didn't give in, instead she lied that she is married with a 2 yrs old daughter etc. Hmmm...what a waste. If she allowed him to explain, she could have saved 4 years of her marriage with Jeremy. Guess this what happens to many women..JTC (Jump to Conclusion). Most men are not expressive enough. Very expressive men are toooo soft...don't think ladies like them. Ladies on the other hand are too quick to make decision. So, if ladies take time to hear what men has to say with their head, I'm sure things can be resolved. It's not easy as ladies egos are also "big" but what is there to lose if you love that person.

Remember being persistent and perservance will help one to overcome any obstacle. Never give up...

This is what I conclude from the movie... On the other hand, my darling husband laughed and said..it's another tamil movie...check if the director is an Indian...*sigh* Men are men...love to hide their emotion or they are emotionless..hahahaha!

Check it out if you guys are interested to watch...http://www.mediacorpraintree.com/TLY/

Some nice link

2008-02-14T17:47:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I went out for lunch with Ratna, my lovely friend. She gave me some interesting gift for my birthday this year and surprisingly all in pink. Last week my mom and brother bought me a pink watch. Hmmm...is pink my lucky charm this year? Maybe I should buy a pink punjabi suit and saree too :-)

Anyway, her gifts were superb. I have already started using them except for one..waiting to get a new mobile first. I felt very proud taking out a branded card holder to tap my ez-link...hahaha. Maybe it's about time I start sourcing branded stuff...hahaha! Thanks a lot my other half :-)

Yesterday, I was browsing through the net and came across an interesting blog for Indian women. Well, I guess anyone who is interest can browse this blog.

It's http://www.indusladies.com/

Have fun!!

It's Friday today....can't wait to get home and catch some sleep....

Birthday Bash

2008-02-12T01:30:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Vitesh birthday together with mine last week. It was really fun to have two in one. Well, I didn't inform anyone about my birthday since age is big concern here. Nevertheless, those who remembered got me gifts too. I was overwhelmed. Thanks for making my day. We partied till 2am. Very tired but it was worth the time :-)

Vitesh turns 3

2008-01-28T19:27:00.000-08:00

Vitesh turned 3 yesterday. Look at how he has grown from a baby. We had a celebration in his playgroup. He seemed to know that it is his birthday and he enjoyed every moment. He didn't cry or what so ever.

Hmmm....guess he has began to understand the language :-)

We took big brother out from school during recess to join in the party. He was very helpful. We are going to have a big celebration this Saturday and Vesshnu is going to host the programme with his cousins. Looking forward to see "Big brother" in action. Happy Birthday to our darling Vitesh

Thaipusam

2008-01-21T23:47:00.000-08:00

It's Thaipusam time. Vesshnu and I carried our milk pot early Tues morning. It was a nice 4 km walk as early as 1 am. Closer to Tank Rd temple was rather crowded. The crowd was moving slowly. Vesshnu got very tired and sleepy. Father had to help him carry now and then. Somehow we managed to finish by 4am.

I saw number of people carrying their child and also milk pot...really admire them. I saw a lady with a small kavadi and she spike her cheeks. It made me wonder why hindus have to pierce or spike their body for god. Hmmm...their devotion must be so intense that they are willing to sacrifice to any extend. It just like tattooing your body for your love ones. If a human can go to this extreme for another human, why not for god?

On the other hand logically, Hindus need not show their devotion this way. A mental devotion through meditation is already good enough. Just a thought, no offense...

Do not carry the heavy load of the past on your back. Unload the past, square your shoulders, loosen your muscles, and joyously face your day-to-day problems. This is called 'acting'. When you drag your past memories into the present and try to act with a mind shackled with its hang-ups from the past, then you become inefficient, incompetent, and severely handicapped in meeting your problems. You only make a mess of things. This is called 'reacting'. Act wisely...React positively. - Swami Chinmayananda

Stop complaining about life

2008-01-20T22:41:00.000-08:00

Most of us always complain about situations in life, issues with people and relationship. The clip below is about a man without a leg and woman without a hand. I thought through and I was amazed how lovely and confident they look. I learn that we should always look at a glass half full then half empty.

5 Lessons to make you think about the way we treat people.

2008-01-17T21:57:00.000-08:00

1- First Important Lesson - Cleaning Lady

During my second month of college, our professor
gave us a pop quiz. I was a conscientious student
and had breezed through the questions until I read
the last one:
'What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?'
Surely this was some kind of joke.. I had seen the
cleaning woman several times. She was tall,
dark-haired and in her 50s, but how would I know her name?
I handed in my paper, leaving the last question
blank. Just before class ended, one student asked if
the last question would count toward our quiz grade.
'Absolutely,' said the professor. 'In your careers,
you will meet many people. All are significant. They
deserve your attention and care, even if all you do
is smile and say 'hello.'
I've never forgotten that lesson. I also learned her
name was Dorothy.

2. - Second Important Lesson - Pickup in the Rain

One night, at 11:30 p.m., an elderly African-American woman was standing on the side of an Alabama highway trying to endure a lashing rainstorm. Her car had broken down and she desperately needed a ride. Soaking wet, she decided to flag down the next car. A young white man stopped to help her, generally unheard of in those conflict-filled 60s.. The man took her to safety, helped her get assistance and put her into a taxicab.
She seemed to be in a big hurry, but wrote down his address and thanked him. Seven days went by and a knock came on the man's door. To his surprise, a
giant console color TV was delivered to his home. A special note was attached..
It read:
'Thank you so much for assisting me on the highway the other night. The rain drenched not only my clothes, but also my spirits. Then you came along. Because of you, I was able to make it to my dying husband's bedside just before he passed away... God bless you for helping me and unselfishly serving others.'
Sincerely, Mrs. Nat King Cole.

3. -Third Important Lesson - Always remember those who serve

In the days when an ice cream sundae cost much less, a 10-year-old boy entered a hotel coffee shop and sat at a table. A waitress put a glass of water in front of him.
'How much is an ice cream sundae?' he asked.
'Fifty cents,' replied the waitress.
The little boy pulled his hand out of his pocket and
studied the coins in it.
'Well, how much is a plain dish of ice cream?' he inquired.
By now more people were waiting for a table and the waitress was growing impatient.
'Thirty-five cents,' she brusquely replied.
The little boy again counted his coins.
'I'll have the plain ice cream,' he said.
The waitress brought the ice cream, put the bill on
the table and walked away. The boy finished the ice
cream, paid the cashier and left. When the waitress
came back, she began to cry as she wiped down the
table. There, placed neatly beside the empty dish,
were two nickels and five pennies..
You see, he couldn't have the sundae, because he had to have enough left to leave her a tip.

4 - Fourth Important Lesson. - The obstacle in Our Path.

In ancient times, a King had a boulder placed on a
roadway. Then he hid himself and watched to see if
anyone would remove the huge rock. Some of the
king's wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by
and simply walked around it. Many loudly blamed the King for not keeping the roads clear, but none did anything about getting the stone out of the way.

Then a peasant came along carrying a load of
vegetables. Upon approaching the boulder, the
peasant laid down his burden and tried to move the
stone to the side of the road. After much pushing
and straining, he finally succeeded. After the
peasant picked up his load of vegetables, he noticed
a purse lying in the road where the boulder had
been. The purse contained many gold coins and a note from the King indicating that the gold was for the person who removed the boulder from the roadway. The peasant learned what many of us never understand!

Every obstacle presents an opportunity to improve our condition.

5 - Fifth Important Lesson - Giving When it Counts...

Many years ago, when I worked as a volunteer at a
hospital, I got to know a little girl named Liz who
was suffering from a rare & serious disease. Her only chance of recovery appeared to be a blood
transfusion from her 5-year old brother, who had
miraculously survived the same disease and had
developed the antibodies needed to combat the
illness. The doctor explained the situation to her
little brother, and asked the little boy if he would
be willing to give his blood to his sister.

I saw him hesitate for only a moment before taking a deep breath and saying, 'Yes I'll do it if it will save her.' As the transfusion progressed, he lay in bed next to his sister and smiled, as we all did, seeing the color returning to her cheek. Then his face grew pale and his smile faded.

He looked up at the doctor and asked with a
trembling voice, 'Will I start to die right away'.

Being young, the little boy had misunderstood the
doctor; he thought he was going to have to give his
sister all of his blood in order to save her.

Have a great weekend!

Happy Pongal

2008-01-09T21:21:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!

I wanted to update my blog some time ago. Hmmm...wonder what stopped me.

1) Lazy
2) Kind of bored
3) Helped in my cousins 21st birthday celebration
4) Too busy doing my school assignment
5) Went holiday
6) Too much work when I came back to work

These are all excuses.....plainly I'm lazy and tired these days :-)

Anyway Pongal is round the corner (15 Jan) for those who don't know. Let me be the first one to wish all my friends a very happy pongal.

Meaning of Pongal
Pongal is a harvest festival - the Tamil equivalent of Thanksgiving. It is held to honor the Sun, for a bountiful harvest. Families gather to rejoice and share their joy and their harvests with others. The Sun is offered a "Pongal" of rice and milk. Literally meaning "Boiling over", Pongal, signifies the advent of prosperity. Pongal is normally celebrated over a period of four days, starting on the 13th January. Since the calculation to determine the day is based on the solar calendar, the date doesn't change. It is considered a very auspicious occasion when the Sun transits the Capricorn sign. A rich and abundant harvest of paddy and other crops depend on the availability of good rain, as most of the rivers in Tamil Nadu are not perennial. Hence, there is the invocation of the Sun God and the God of Rain at the time of Pongal.

My wishes to all the Indians out there

As the sunlight is the very nature of the sun, sweetness the nature of sugar and heat the nature of fire, the Lord is divine grace. God cannot give grace until you allow Him to enter your life. To invoke Him is to invite His grace. To the extent the heart is open for the inflow of the Higher, to that extent we are under the grace of the Lord. - Swami Chinmayananda

May all you have a blessed and joyous pongal.

One Not Enough

2007-12-03T17:48:00.000-08:00

This was the most interesting discussion in our class last week. "Infidelity & Extramarital Affairs". Of course most of us were curious as to why it happens rather how can we prevent it from happening cause in ones life time, 95% of married couple are involved in infidelity. Well it can happen physically and also mentally. Hmmm...very interesting right??

According to Dave Carder, the author of "Torn Asunder" (http://www.tornasunder.org/)The five "A"s of Extramarital Affairs is due to lack of..

Affirmation
Affection (this is more for women)
Acceptance
Accommodation
Adoration / Admiration (this is more for men)

If these five lacks or fails in ones relationship, marriage drifts apart, then either one party tends to find another partner to fulfill.

Both Male and Female have their own needs and if these are unmet, then it leads to trouble!!!.

I didn't say this. This is according to Willard Harley, the man who wrote books on building marriage to last a lifetime (http://www.marriagebuilders.com/).

Her Needs

Affection (Women loves praises, what's wrong in daily compliments??)
Conversation (women loves to talk, so guys need to listen)
Honesty & Integrity (Need to be smart guys)
Financial Support (Definitely not for materialistic women, I suppose someone who can support her and family)
Family commitment (Guys are usually commitment when they are married but somehow some cannot express well, need personal grooming I suppose :-) )
These our group of classmates added one more..."sex". Think women these days show importance to this too.

His Needs

Admiration (I honestly dinch know this, something new that I learnt about guys)
Sexual fulfillment (Hmm...no comments)
Recreational companionship (Ladies need to show interest in whatever these guys like, be it soccer :-))
Physical Attractiveness (Think is norm for most guys, that's why there many slimming centre and product are making $$$)
Domestic Support (Ladies need to be multi-taskers to win the men's heart)

So why people are more vulnerable these days? It all leads to the unmet needs listed above and I mainly would highlight the ego thingy in everyone.

How is this unmet needs happen.

Exposure to media and "other" world
Educational standards
Marriage becomes dull
Lowered in nurturance level
Financial conflict (one does better than the other)
Power control issues (WHO IS IN POWER HERE??)
Sexual dissatisfaction.
Hungry for emotional and physical needs
Angry with spouses
Loneliness
Tired / Feeling empty
Bored

When I took some time to contemplate, these hardly happen during our parents/grandparents time. They stick to marriage vows strictly no matter what kind of spouses they get.

These days I think women are getting more sophiscated and smarter. They are proving to the men that they can live without them.

If marriage needs to be held till the end, there is lots of hardwork. I shall write a review on how much of hard work is required in a marriage, the list surprises me. Honestly, I barely met 20%...not an easy task..cheerio!!

Celebration Continues

2007-11-18T21:36:00.000-08:00

Well, there goes Deepavali but the spirit is still there. We have not completed our visiting.

On Deepavali, our usual we went to temple, then to my mother-in-law's place. In the evening to my grandpa's place and was back home because of my professors. It was nice for them to visit me on the first day of Deepavali. They tasted my cookies and had fun. They only left at 11.45pm.

The next day, more professors came over for dinner. I cooked Fish Kurma, Jira rice, Chicken curry and thosai. They loved the food. I was happy they enjoyed the company.

On Saturday.....party at my place from tea till 3am...crazy rite!!! I was exhausted by end of the day. I went marketing in the morning and cooked by 3pm. I made roti jala, chicken and mutton. The ladies wanted finger food, so I bought samosa, curry puffs, chicken wings..what else..yes! hot dog and many more. It was non-stop party. My best friend Ratna came over with her family. A sudden change in her husband, more friendly than expected. My mom, aunts and uncles came over. Last but not least my in-laws...a bunch of freaking married women. All dance and partied till 3am. By the time I clean up the house it was almost 4.30am. Phew! What a day..

On Sunday...whole family got up at 12noon. This time we started visiting. Our intention was to cover 2 houses...but believe it...from 3pm till 11pm, we covered 4 houses!!! Another crazy idea. I wished that I took leave on Monday :-)

Last Saturday, I went to my brother Puvan's house in Taman Perling. It was a great time to meet with all my father's brother's children...they all have grown old and their children are all grown up....a sign of aging..hehehe. Well, I should say I'm growing wiser. We played all kind of crackers. It felt good again, back to my childhood days in my kampung. I really missed Malaysia lifestyle. It's so simple and fun. People are so warm and welcoming....Will post more of those photos of playing crackers soon.

Sunday visited Suba's place. She cooked Nasi Lemak. Guess that was a good change after all the chicken and mutton. Back home early as both my children not well.

Party continues next week at Suguna's place.

Happy Deepavali

2007-11-05T21:28:00.000-08:00

THE FOUR CANDLES

2007-10-31T18:13:00.000-07:00

The four candles burn slowly.The ambiance was so soft you could hear them talking.

The first one said:"I am peace!however nobody can keep me lit, I believe I will go out." It's flame rapidly dimishes and goes out completely.

The second one says:"I am faith! Most of all I am no longer indispensable, so it doesn't make any sense that I stay lit any longer". When it finished talking, a breeze softly blew on it putting it out.

Sadly,the third candle spoke in its turn:"I am love! I haven't got the strength to stay lit. People put me aside and dont understand my importance. They even forget to love those who are nearest to them." and waiting no longer it goes out.

Suddenly....a child enters the room and sees three candles not burning. "Why are you not burning? You are supposed to stay lit till the end." Saying this,the child begins to cry.

Then the fourth candle said:"Dont be afraid,while I am still burning we can re-light the other candles, I am HOPE!" with shining eyes,the child took the candle of hope and lit the other candles.

THE FLAME OF HOPE SHOULD NEVER GO OUT FROM YOUR LIFE.....AND THAT EACH OF US CAN MAINTAIN HOPE,FAITH,PEACE AND LOVE!!!!

U are my love

2007-10-17T22:33:00.000-07:00

I suddenly fall in love with this song...not for the hero of course but the music. It's cool....

Inferiority and Self Esteem

2007-10-03T01:59:00.000-07:00

The summary of my Monday's lesson:

General term from dictionary
Inferiority - Feeling below par
Self Esteem - to have great regard for; value highly; respect

What does psychology term refer to as inferiority and self-esteem?
Everyone of us are born with 100% of insecurity from birth. There is no baby from birth ask for milk without crying nor tells the parents/care-giver that they are able to take care of themselves. Our insecurity gradually reduces or increases depends on the love pail..this love pails consists of parents love, followed by love from extended family then social surroundings. Whatever happen our insecurity will be always there till we depart the world. If insecurity decreases..good, self esteem is high. If insecurity increase...hmm...inferiority will definitely crept in. Think about it???

Our childhood influences from five roots: our gender, family unity, parental attitude, social & economy position of family and health & appearance help us prepare for adolescent. Here our attitude towards ourselves, difficulties, others, other sex and life will determined our life style. From then we will be into aduthood to face the challenges among other people, occupation, love and sex. What a definition???

Thanks to my school who has made me understand how important childhood is. If parents give love to the brim...child becomes too dependent, if too little or none..then that's it. The child will find love in wrong places like drug, piercing themselves, tatooing, extreme make-over, indulge in sex and many others.....

Friday

2007-09-27T18:04:00.000-07:00

It's Friday!!! Yeah. I want sleep tonite...hehehe. Last few days were hectic. 3 days of classes in a row...phew!!

Tonite, I want to jump onto my bed early and sleep.....

I'm not sleepy head okie! It's just that my mind is too tired.

I walked to office with our faculty Dean. Interesting and warm person. I was surprise that he takes MRT...I asked him why. He said this is the only form of exercise for him...he walks 4 km a day. He takes a longer walk to office as he wants to cover the 4 km and here I'm trying to find short-cuts to work..hehehe.

Difficulties

2007-09-26T23:54:00.000-07:00

If I were asked to give what I consider the single most useful bit of advice for all humanity, it would be this:

Expect trouble as an inevitable part of life, and when it comes, hold your head high. Look it squarely in the eye, and say, "I will be bigger than you. You cannot defeat me.

......Ann Landers

Achievement

2007-09-23T21:40:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I delivered my first talk to the volunteers at hindu centre. Well, my topic was "The Yoga Hype" and I did my presentation. The night before I could not sleep. I practise till 12.30am and got up at 7.30am on Saturday. It's a real freak out moment. I could not anticipate the type of questions volunteers would ask but somehow I managed. After the session, I receive many compliments and most said it was informative. Only area for improvement is that I need to handle people's opinion quick and sharp especially if they are incorrect. I felt a sense of achievement and I'm confident to do more now. Guess it was all the blessings from God!!

Move Forward

2007-09-18T00:13:00.000-07:00

Face the dilemmas

make love and peace

struggles of life

the wall of worries

open your mind

clear your voice

look for something

pick a good choice

forget about mistakes

of errors and strifes

learn how to smile

survive for life

Lunch with my good old friend

2007-09-07T01:13:00.000-07:00

I went all the way to Shenton to lunch with my best friend Ratna. I missed the food around Shenton. It's been 4 months....I miss Saravana Bhavan, The Palmer and some others. Ratna has grown different..ahem ahem, but she is as radiant as ever. I think she is too happy there. We had so much of stories to share and suddenly I felt like I'm back in MAS....

We parted at TP mrt and as usual, my friend with her camera....never ending photographer. We got someone to take our photo..vain vain

It's Not My Day

2007-09-05T18:43:00.000-07:00

This morning I got up with a bad headache and running nose. I look rather moody and just feel like getting out of here to take a good rest. Met my colleauge, Tammie at Bishan MRT.I felt much better after talking to her.

We got off at Dhoby Ghaut to take the NEL train. At Outram we thot' of trying the new route..thru Singhealth. It's was alright but the back gate to my office was not open. We took the usual route. Suddenly Tammie's handbag gave way. We tried looking for the missing parts but we could not find them. As it is we were late, then we tried the new route and we had to find the missing part of her handbag.......what a day to start off with!!!

I'm feeling very lousy today, my mind is running with lots of thots'. Guess I'm too tired, I really need a break. Maybe I should take a 1/2 day and go out with my best friend Ratna for a movie or just go out somewhere....

My headache is back, they coffee does not help. Looks like I have to pop in a panadol. *@sigh@*

Vitesh growing

2007-08-28T17:29:00.000-07:00

Little brother is getting adorable day by day...

Vitesh is 31- to 32-month-old

How your toddler's growing:

Your child now has a solid awareness of how things should be according to adult rules and standards. He might be upset by deviations from the norm — like if someone has dessert before dinner or if a babysitter doesn't do things exactly as you would. Shortly, though, he'll learn that things don't always follow set patterns and that's okay.

How your life is changing:

As your child's awareness of other people continues to develop, he'll begin to alter his speech depending on who he's talking to. For instance, he'll begin to use different words and tones of voice with peers or adults. You may even notice that with younger children he uses simpler language.

The letter

2007-08-27T20:01:00.000-07:00

The ancient envelope on the fridge

2007-08-27T19:58:00.000-07:00

Could you see the rolled letter in the envelope. There a little stamp and it's held by 2 little magnets!!

Vesshnu

2007-08-27T19:48:00.000-07:00

Last night after class, I came home tired and exhausted. My maid told me that my son has something for me on the fridge. I was kind of puzzled!! I took a closer look at it. He creatively prepared a letter and an envelope with kitchen towel. He told my maid it's the ancient way. What a creation. Thanks a lot baby!! You really made my day. I'm amazed about your creativity....maybe most "Virgos" are like that :-). I have posted his creation above..memories

Assignment

2007-08-25T06:10:00.000-07:00

It's 6.00am and I'm still doing my assignment. It's so peaceful and mind is so clear though I'm like a zombie now. A good friend adviced me not to put my little one to sleep in the afternoon so that he will sleep early at night. Guess what happen, he knocked off in my lap at about 9pm. Happily I told my husband to bring him up to the room. He got up right on bed and cried for me...and my gundu husband..can laugh away. He can advice me to do my assignment with him. Surprising, he refused to go to husband. He stucked to me, I could not even get out of his sight. ARRRGGGG.....Told myself, nevermind...I will still get through it and be determined to do my assignment somehow. Finally, I managed to put the little to sleep at 12 midnite! Here I am happily doing my assignment with my cup of coffee and a mess of papers and books on my computer table. I'm listening to the same songs over 2 or 3 rounds I think. I'm just got the kick to do my assignment. I shall stay up till morning...wake my darling up to work, go marketing with my maid in case I fall off..hehehe. Then shall have a good hot shower and go to sleep. Thanks for the advice friend...should not have listen to you!!!

Lost of words

2007-08-22T17:58:00.000-07:00

Nowadays my mind is filled up with so many issues that I can't find words to express my feelings. This morning, I saw this words of wisdom...

All successes and achievements in any line of work is the result of concentration.

Ninety percent of thought-force is wasted by the ordinary human being and therefore he is constantly committing blunders.

The trained man or mind never makes a mistake.

The more the power of concentration the greater the knowledge that is acquired.
- Swami Vivekananda

Told myself wake up...it's not end of the world, guess I must me tired with my assignments, thinking about my boys and as usual hindu centre..I really need to break free!!!!!!!!!!

Down the memory lane

2007-08-15T02:55:00.000-07:00

Today is Friday morning...it's raining here. I'm sipping my coffee as I'm thinking what to write on my blog.....

Last Monday as usual, I went for my class at Ah Moy street. When I got off at Tanjong Pagar, saw a familiar face. "Hi Michelle! It's great to see you! She looks bright as ever. She was also surprise to see me around Tanjong Pagar...she fuzzed about work being sent to insurance dept now. Hmmm.....what can I say??? I told her that I don't run into Mr. %%% and she said no worries....that person never left early home..hehehe

Then, I went to IP's Watson to get some stuff.....to my amazement.....lots of changes including the makan makan......no more Delifrance, the building is under serious renovation. Everything has to changed within 4 months! Then I met another familiar face..."hi Safar!". He too was surprise to see me. As usual, he also complaint about work. I wonder if I would meet Mr big boss???

Hmmm.....I missed my best friend...we usually walk around this place during lunch, grabbing some bites from Burger King. We shop for our little ones. Years back, when I was pregnant we shop for maternity wear....she was more excited than me.

Sometimes during working hours, when we needed a break, we just walk to this place to get something to eat and my friend loves the "paus" from Solo...it's no longer there now.

It's usually fun to get gifts for our bosses during Christmas..it's was always last minute..we will rush to this place to get wrapping papers, little gifts and chocolates. The whole morning of Christmas eve will be busy with these stuffs.

Then the florist...we sent flowers to each on birthdays and sometimes when we are down.

Now she is busy in her office and I'm here. Guess, that's how life is. Good things will never stay long.............

Vitesh

2007-08-07T01:12:00.000-07:00

Vitesh is turning 31 mths end of this month. He saying a few words now and trying to link 2 words.

What surprises me is that he has learnt to scold....must have learnt from us definitely. Yesterday, the big bro played some prank while Vitesh was bathing. He fell....he got soo furious that he started pointing finger and shouting...it almost like screaming. When confronted and ask him what happen.....he whinned. Language cannot be understood but expression....phew!! Future Vasantham Star..hehehe.

It makes me wonder how this innocence pies learn to pick habits like this...it is observational learning. I kept warning the gundus at home not to give wrong signals to little ones...hmmm. Hope Vitesh doesn't do this when he goes to school....

All relationship are destined to fail

2007-08-01T18:02:00.000-07:00

What you guys think about this title?

When my lecturer shared this last week, I was not convinced initially but he added "All relationship are destined to fail unless you maintained it"...it made me think. Yes!! It's true. Husband-Wife, Parent-Child, Sibblings even Friends..if we don't maintain it, it will fail. Why this happens? B'cos we are all born insecurity....

So, we got to work hard to sustain it.

This is the most challenging task as there is a lot of teamwork involved. When it drains one out but not the other...we give up!! and move to something more interesting. On the hand moving to something else will also won't satisfy us. We will find some faults there too.

One thing, with god's grace...no matter what, we can help to sustain the relationship as long as we want it. Let's focus as our aim in life!!

Bare Beauty

2007-07-25T01:27:00.000-07:00

Last night I sat down after my dinner. An interesting programme caught my eye. It's all about bare beauty where the host Anita Kapoor shows you interesting recipies on how to keep the hair, body and face radiant!! It's every Tues at 9pm...if you can't watch, no problem. The website gives you the recipies....hehehe. Looks like I'm promoting Art Central
http://www.artscentral.sg/2007/barebeauty/index.htm

Back again

2007-07-24T00:04:00.000-07:00

I forgot all about blogging...guess must have been busy with my assignments - both for hindu centre and my diploma. I'm all gross out!!! I was also interviewed by Kathir and Ravi. I got to answer 5 questions related to hinduism. It wasn't easy....very tricky. Managed to answer 4 out of 5 (I think)....yet to get the marks.

My life pretty calm these days..things are fine in office. Profs here are friendly and warm. Quite understanding..though I do sense some have mood swings. Guess that's normal for any human being. Since the hindu teachers training is over, next would be teaching hinduism. I wonder if I'm qualified..hehehe. Not sure if I have set a good example to teach...

It's graduation this Sunday!! Most of us are excited to bring our family members. It's time to introduce our love ones to others. After this I have 2 interaction session to prepare, one for hindu centre volunteers and the other to "public". I can't even speak to my bosses clearly, how am I going to talk to PUBLIC....god!! Pls help!!

My two years of religious studies

2007-06-25T00:28:00.000-07:00

Phew! Finally two years of religious studies are over. Not sure how I managed but looking back, it's over at a wink.
My feelings? - relieved!! One less commitment now.
What have I learnt? - It's beautiful to know so much of depth knowlegde is hidden. This is just a glimpse....I need to explore more.
Any impact on me? - Yes!! Able to see situations around me in different perspective.
Able to sustain this knowledge? - Hehehe...not going to that easy as I will face daily challenges with bunch of "mix" people. Guess, will have to do lots of self reflecting
Next plan? - Take a break to focus on Diploma first. Spent more time with my little ones and revise topic which is not clear.
Can you teach? - I'm asked to....to be honest, still not confident enuf. Maybe after diploma...hopefully.

My two boys!

2007-06-14T22:46:00.000-07:00

Just look how grown there are now....... Vesshnu jumps into Vitesh's playpen...though he is turns 11 this year...he is still a baby. Then the little one follows the Anna's footstep....the 2 happily posing.......... Cheer up boys!

Importance of having Breakfast

2007-06-13T22:26:00.000-07:00

Hi friends, some advice....

Breakfast can help prevent strokes, heart attack and sudden death.Advice on not to skip breakfast.For those who always skip breakfast, you should stop that habit now!You've heard many times that "Breakfast is the most important meal of the day." Now, recent research confirms that one of the worst practices you can develop may be avoiding breakfast.

Why?
Because the frequency of heart attack, sudden death, and stroke peaks between 6: 00a.m. and noon , with the highest incidence being between 8:00a.m. and 10:00a.m.What mechanism within the body could account for this significant jump in sudden death in the early morning hours?

The answer
Platelet, tiny elements in the blood that keep us from bleeding to Death if we get a cut, can clump together inside our arteries due to cholesterol or P plaque buildup in the artery lining. It is in the morning hours that platelets become the most activated and tend to form these internal blood clots at the greatest frequency. However, eating even a very light breakfast prevents the morning platelet activation that is associated with heart attacks and strokes.

Studies performed at Memorial University in St.Johns, Newfoundland found that eating a light, very low-fat breakfast was critical in modifying the morning platelet activation. Subjects in the study consumed either low-fat or fat-free yogurt, orange juice, fruit, and a source of protein coming from yogurt or fat-free milk. So if you skip breakfast, it's important that you change this practice immediately in light of this research. Develop a simple plan to eat cereal, such as oatmeal or Bran Flakes, along with six ounces of grape juice or orange juice, and perhaps a piece of fruit. This simple plan will keep your platelets from sticking together, keep blood clots from forming, and perhaps head off a potential Heart Attack or stroke.

So never ever skip breakfast

Eagle

2007-06-11T19:08:00.000-07:00

Phew! I messed up my blog..hehehe. I dinch even back up. Manage to do something and hope to explore more.

Actually I was excited to share with you about what I learnt from Adam Khoo PSLE workshop last Saturday. It's was hilarious....with Ramesh one of the trainer giving practical and true synopsis of what can we expect from today's children. I had a good laugh but it left me thinking of what is the right strategy of parenting these days. It was amazing how Ramesh used the Eagle and the eaglet as an example. Let me share it wif you. When an eagle built its home, it choses a high spot probably a tall tree or mountain top. Is it easy to reach there with all the twigs and leaves? Never....there is no construction company up there for them. It takes time and effort to build this nest. After that they lay eggs and wait for the day. When the eaglets hatch and days passed...they are ready to fly. Do you think the eaglets' parents are there to help them fly...Do they say "Now..look here my babies, today is lesson 1. Watch me carefully and learn the technique to fly, tommorrow we have the 2nd lesson" (I just quoted Ramesh words). NO!! the eaglets got to learn themselves...how do they do it? The first time the eaglets actually drop down and sometime they don't fly midway. They go all the way down close to the the ground. Suddenly from nowhere the ealets' parents will come for rescue. Indeed their parents actually sit close by watching their eaglets.

How many of we parents do this? I guess most of us are over protective.....We are there for comforting and attending to our children need. Think it's about time to be an Eagle!!Let's change our strategy. Children got to learn the difficult way to achieve things in life just like how the Eagle built its nest. As parents we got stay an armlength and watch our children move the right direction with confidence. See how much we can learn from creation...adious!

My best friend

2007-05-31T19:22:00.001-07:00

My dear friend,

You are always in my thots'. I cheerish every moment wif you and nothing can replace this friendship even we are far apart physically. You have taught me survive in this rough sea. I may not be around to share the frustration, sadness and happy moment but I'm always thinking about you.

It's the things in common that make friendship enjoyable, but it's the little differences that make them interesting...Todd Ruthman (this is frm little book on friendship which you gave me)

Hope this cherish you for this moment.

Don't worry, everything will be taken care and you will your dream home soon...cheer up baby!

Love you always....

Happy Wesak Day

2007-05-29T21:45:00.000-07:00

Things are not quite right these days. I could not lift up my right hand lately and could feel some numbness. Yesterday took time to go for physiotherapy. Need to go for a few session to see the effect. Hope it recovers soon. The therapist said that my nerves could be rubbing against the densed spinal bones. Any how, just hope for the best. Well,it will be a good break for most of us tommorrow. Haf fun friends.

Happy Birthday my Darling

2007-05-23T02:21:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends

Guess my mind is too placid till I can't think of anything to write. My apologies. My new place is wonderful and people here treat individual with respect. Just heard some sad frustrating stories from my old friends. It's really sad but what can be done? Human..they are full of "Egos"!! Suddenly, I felt like I'm going back to old place and my emotion stirred-up. Ooops! I got carried away and got emotional. All messed up.Come back Shan! It's reality. This is world!! Let's face it!!

Now, I'm draining out. Got to go home and re-charge.

Well, today is my darling's birthday. He has turned 46 yrs today!! A wonderful great man though get on my nerves at times. What to do? It's part of marriage cycle...hahaha!

Anyway...I gaf some thot'. If I have to be a writer for Chicken Soup...Husbands and do a collection of stories from around the married women of different race or religion, wonder what will be the women's frustration??

Happy Mothers day to all kind of mums out there!

2007-05-11T01:21:00.000-07:00

Exam Week

2007-05-06T20:46:00.000-07:00

Guess most mothers out there must be stressed by their child's exam this week. Getting them ready and all out for their mid year exam!!! Some interesting tips which I learnt during a talk last Saturday. How should we get them to sit for a period of time so that they are able to hold themselves during their exam? Get them to sit for 15 min to complete the task...be clear and specific about their task. Then give a break for the another 15 min. If they are able to keep to the 15 min, increase to 20 mins now..... then the break too increase to 20 mins. Work on this till they are able to sit for 45min. Start early....and you will achive ;-)

Feeling better

2007-05-02T22:45:00.000-07:00

My dearest grandpa was admitted on 1 May...he has got pneumonia...early stage. The fever affected part of his brain that caused him to be disorientated. Haf been visiting him since then...things are much better now. Today, they made him walk around the ward for awhile. He also recognises us.

I met a person today....his name Mr Silva. He looks healthy and perfect. I wondered why he was admitted so I approached and asked about his health. I was taken aback when he said that he is counting his day! He is in the 4th stage of colon cancer. He seemed to be cool. He said he is taking morphin and takes 6 paracetamol tablets at one time dailly!

Then, there is this man who seemed helpless because he is aged and he has acute pneumonia. Both his hands are tied to the bed. Whenever, I talk to my grandpa....he turns and look at me. Once I approached and spoke to him. He can't speak and he had a sad look in his eye.......

I'm going to start again....what is life? It's time to reflect....(maybe I'm getting older...hehehe!)

A tired day ahead.....

2007-04-30T11:59:00.000-07:00

I'm sleepy but I'm keeping an eye on my grandpa....he is unwell. He has got very bad cough and phlegm. He is also talking to himself....guess hallucination. Just don't know how it happened. Lat Thursday....he got high fever. It was from us....my whole family was hit by flu and fever. He got worried over my little boy who refused to eat or drink. Then suddenly we receive news that my grandma too unwell. She was admitted for urine infection. I sent my grandpa to see doctor too at SGH. He was fine then. On Friday, he started blabering away funny things. He seemed to see a lot of things. The gals at my grandpa's place got scared and worried. Today I asked my uncle to sent him to my house. It's 3am and he is still not asleep. He is talking about some accident and other stuff. It's rather sad. I'm not sure what's going to happen to him. He has been a great help all these years to me and my children. He is a quiet and humble man. Deep down I'm still positive about him. Just hope he will be well soon.

Doesn't this make us wonder that this might happen to us one day.....are we able to face reality of life when this hits us. My grandpa....a man who is always looking for love and comfort among us. Is this what happens when we depend on people rather than on ourselves. It's time to reflect upon life....what's the meaning??

My exam

2007-04-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

Phew!....finally I received the result for 1/2 of my paper....got a 'B' - 80%. 1/2 more hurdle more to go. My worldview, an essay consisting 5000 words of my views on relationships, finance, divorce, suicide and roles. Well, my lecturer said it shud be the "in search" type. I managed to complete and pass them up last week. I will be having one to one session on 28th May and will know the results too. It was a good experience to write my perspective, not as easy as you think because I got to dig up the worms which were living right down in me. It was not a good experience but if I dun..then how am I to be a counsellor later? I may turn to be bias when I meet real situation ;-)

A week has passed.....

2007-04-30T10:53:00.000-07:00

Left my old place for more than a week...now I'm at my new place. Complete different environment with different expectation. Till now things are pretty cool.... Lots of work too but the people here are warm and welcoming. Most of all....the give you space to grow. I have attach my some photos of my new place. At this moment, only 2 souls occupy the whole block...more to come in August....check it out guys!

Last Day

2007-04-17T09:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

It was my last day in office yesterday.....I've worked here for 13 yrs. I faced lots of challenges here and gained lots of experiences too. I grew up to be a stronger woman. I learnt teamwork, team spirit, always have a macro and not micro view of an organisation, learnt to be meticulous and acquired many skills along the way. It was difficult to part my dear friends especially Ratna (lunacy).....she has done sooo much for me that I cannot thank her enuf. I met many kind of people in these years....some stay awhile in ur heart, some leave bitterness and some leave footprint. I learnt abt myself better thru each and every one in my workplace. It was self reflection & gave me an oppurtunity to re-evaluate myself. Well, you can views the photos by linking "photos" under inspiration...see u around.

Your Personality

2007-04-02T22:54:00.001-07:00

Ooops! Sorry for my late reply....

Here are the answers:

Rectangle
U are an intelligent being but you are a reserved person

Triangle
U are a lateral thinker. Cool guys!

'Z' person
U are creative, strong, imaginative and you are a leader!

Circle
Obsessed but guys no worries, u are perfectionist. U're a micro manager!

Cheers to all!

Married

2007-03-28T17:29:00.001-07:00

Today, I'm married for 15 yrs. Well, what have I achieved?
- Am contented with my life style
- Managed to blend with the differences
- Love my darling more as he is growing wiser (greying ;-))
- Hmmm....managed to contribute 2 handsome creatures to the nation.... ;-)
- Feel great of my accomplishment to-date
To me marriage is all about managing rather than living!! I don't believe that marriage happens in heavens...it's all in our hands, what exactly we want from it. Any objections??

First Assignment

2007-03-26T22:08:00.000-07:00

What's your personality in general?

Choose one of the following and let me know which resembles you and why...will post the answers in 2 days time

A. Rectangle

B. Triangle

C. Alphabet 'Z'

D. Circle

'Bout myself

2007-03-26T21:31:00.000-07:00

WELCOME TO MY BLOG

History of Birth
Born in the month Feb - an Aquarian
Originated from Malaysia (Malacca) but later converted to Singapore due to marriage commitment ;-)

Life after marriage
Married for 15 years (to be exact on 29 Mar) with a lovely husband - caring, hardworking, committed to family and hot tempered.
2 handsome sons - Vesshnu and Vitesh, one 11 and the other 27 months

Marriage life - many hiccups along the way but always look at life in different prespective, analyse and place it back, that's how marriage survives!! Always look back to those years of courtship and love....then things will move

Purpose of life
I believe that life is not just about having a happy family, good relationship with people around us or reaching our goals.
It's about our true self, what is the purpose of us being born in this world in whatever religion and what can we give the world in return
Share yours............

My past time
I Spent most of my time couching Vesshnu in Maths and Science (my favourite subjects), create lots of activities with Vitesh like painting, dancing and singing. Besides this I read lots of religious books (soul searching) and I'm currently doing my diploma in counselling psychology.

Purpose to create my own blog
To meet many friends who can share their experiences on life, exchange parenting tips. Well, I would also like to use some of my counselling skills to those who need help. Occasionally will post some questionnaire which will help you to evaluate and understand yourself (Hopefully).
Cheerios!

lake placid

2007-03-15T21:59:00.001-07:00

placidity of mind: dats what this blog is all abt.