hester

2008-12-31T07:54:00.001-08:00

its 6 mins before the clock strikes 12. A list of resolutions coming right up.

im going to blog all my new posts at http://avanel.blogspot.com/ from 2009 onwards.

Nevertheless i wish Everybody a Happy 2009 New Year! (:

2008-12-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

Its almost the closure of December. What's been going on this December for ME? Well indulging of chocolates, chocolates and more chocolates.. (i love it more than words can express the chocolately taste) Its addictive.... imagine a drug call chocolates. Oh boy, am i in big trouble. Besides that, having YI camp (fabulous to the maximum), Christmas Bash (Radio Active man), Christmas party made this December memorable. Just a random question? Are you game enough for the Wii games? lol...

What great expectations would there be in year 2009? Im surely hoping for new exciting adventures, challenges, surprises ahead. I don't wana a dull, routine life... chuck that aside please. Having a car would be good too. (: Oooh Yeah!

2008-12-14T07:08:00.000-08:00

im wondering how can the sky contain so much rain..... its been raining for hours non stop today! I think i need to build a sampan (boat) soon. Came across an article of an italian rower, Bellini, whom set off solo at Peru and almost reaching Australia of a duration of 10 months! A plane can reach his location in a day.

''..... Bellini used a satellite phone to keep in contact with those on land and survived on dried food and desalinated ocean water. He also used a small cooker to fry up fish and to boil water for pasta. He found himself craving sweet foods especially tiramisu and apple cake and was looking forward to gorging on desserts.'' -Alex Bellini: http://alexbellini.it/

i think this is a pretty cool article. Imagine myself going against the strong wind and enduring across the sea.. or its raining for hours at the sea.

Youth Impact camp is here! 15-18th dec... in Rjc. i like the location cause its just 5mins away from home. (:

2008-12-11T13:22:00.000-08:00

stomach's rumbling.... waking up in the middle of the night and didn't want to sleep after quenching thirst. While reading, Sis's hamster just ran past my feet, that gave me a fright. While Placing it back and another one has escaped in the dark, right before my eye... squeezing through a small space at the bottom. It remained unfound at the moment despite seeking for it. Perhaps laying some food traps near their cage might help.

I'm hungry for breakfast! Half boiled eggs... sounds like a good idea. yummie.

2008-12-02T06:08:00.000-08:00

how's the feeling like losing someone close and you will never ever get a chance to see them alive again. Like the recently Mumbai terrorist attack and the victims.... And you just wish you could turn back time to the moments when you could feel their warmth embrace and presence once again. Thats the feeling of fear in my mind... especially towards my own parents, we only have one lifetime and the average life span is about eighty years. That means i have less than 30 years to treasure what's given to me. I'll start treasuring from this moment onwards. ( :

im improving in my driving! i felt that im able to take control of the car however, i still freak out at certain situations. Panicky. The latest instructor whom i came across is pretty unusual... he has rock and roll music in the car, wears aviator shades, uses a well sharpened satay stick as his PDA pointer, his stuffs are buckled up at the bag- he does it for my bag too ( i didnt realised it until end of lesson), his car has dust on the panel and he has alittle temper.

I could sense it when i struggle trying out my 3 point turning.... however, i do pity him as my passenger cause i tend to jerk to a stop. im trying to be gentle with the brake.... somehow just panicky and brake to a sudden halt. im going to the next level next lesson!

im eliminating junk food in my lifestyle. (:

2008-11-26T08:55:00.000-08:00

A new treadmill that i like at the gym! Its has a usb and ipod function so i can plug in and transfers songs from my source into the touch screen and im ready to run and listen. i like running at high speeds and intervals now, thanks to Dom's tips. It felt more challenging doing intervals... upon high speed, it feels like a cheetah chasing after me.

the Arena swimwear annual sales which everyone has been waiting for has started today, i overheard a lady saying that she has been waiting for this sale, most of the stuffs on rack today is pretty much the same as last year's. I was there. There wasn't much varieties... i had good buy for gym pants though.

Last friday's driving lesson i've forgotten to bring shoes, so ended up driving in slippers for the very first time. It just slipped out of my mind about my footwear. Just yesterday, i had my driving too.... i gotten the instructor that i didn't quite like. I forgot to pray. Lol. Even if i did.... perhaps God wants to test my patient. Managed to driving properly with him as compared to the first time with him (3 months ago). I guess the reason that made me felt this way was.... he made me drive the same route over and over again. That makes me bored, plus my butt hurts from the long hours of sitting. My next driving would be tomorrow! Im sure its going to fun cause im getting the hang out it.

2008-11-23T07:44:00.000-08:00

My mud mask is drying up on my face as i let my fingers do the talking... (:

despite a week, there were loads of happenings. A few students along the way too. Im adapting to a healthy diet, knowing that i have the freedom to eat whatever i want and within my reach, somehow i became particular about my choice of food. It can be quite difficult to find a healthy meal outside for a quick bite.

For the past few days almost couldn't login to my email and msn, it has been hacked, till i tried the only and last resort.

2008-11-16T07:32:00.000-08:00

im liking this current song, Show you love by Jars of Clay.

This week onwards i will be organising a holiday intensive swim class at woodlands. I didn't expect to start it but God gave me the idea and provided the students. I bet its gona be Fun! Colourful activities be filling up this week onwards till next year. Watch out, here i am.. *grin.

from tonight's dinner mom home made fruit-veg salad, i made a discovery which was... the combination of strawberry taste absolute delicious with pear. First comes the taste of sour and then sweetness flows in. (: One thing that my mom hasn't experiment with is.... adding olive oil sauce to salad. I simply love eating salad, a meal without salad or veg makes me uneasy.

2008-11-11T07:40:00.000-08:00

It was the last lesson with WG primary school. (: Once again, new experiences new friends and new memories! Helping the girls to wear their swim caps every lesson, taking care of them to helping them overcoming and enjoy their lesson, makes me more than just carrying out my duty of a swim instructor. Unexpectedly, Pearlyn made me a Thank You card. What a sweetie...

Woodlands swim complex

im charge of Orange team!

their smiles made me SMILE!

looks like they do enjoy swimming

i was just browsing facebook, blowing spiderwebs away, its interesting to know how much 'old' friends have changed over the years. It just felt that those days were just yesterday!

2008-11-07T18:53:00.000-08:00

3 consecutive days under the morning Sun for 4 hours has made me charred. I felt like a lioness controlling the kids for the first two days. Shouting out instructions and at times cracking jokes. My group consists of all girls, bonding was easy and they are all dressed in pink except for a few. Girls like pink.... so do I. (:

2008-11-04T07:27:00.000-08:00

Proving that God loves me... i've gotten prayer answered, which was able to enjoy today's driving lesson and secretly hoping He'll assign a particular instructor that i've in mind. Despite from the random allocation from their system. I hit the jackpot!! Last week, i totally didn't enjoy my lesson with another instructor and time seems to crawl by.

i got new 3 christian books! i'll be doing book reviews in my post after digesting them. (: and borrowed more reading materials from the library. God also gave me 5 more students plus new challenges tomorrow with new school kids at the pool.

Saw my friend, Alywin, in the Mr Gorgeous TV show representing NUS Campus. He won the title.

2008-11-02T06:58:00.000-08:00

Ade, Stephanie and I went to Harista Fish therapy spa early in the morning. We sat in an adjacent row, Ade is the braveheart and placed her feet in first. Needless to say, all the fish dashed towards and attack! chomp chomp chomp.

Followed by Stephanie's turn to dip hers into the tub. Mine was still on land, fearing at the sight of fish surrounding my feet. My mind was conjuring imaginations, while submerging my heels and finally after much persuation i closed my eyes and dip them in! It is scary to see, feel like running but i know im stuck.

The after effect was very smooth and soft. It was truly an interesting experience. I do want to try again! (:

2008-10-31T08:13:00.000-07:00

loads of interesting happenings these days. Went outing with Godchasers on Deevapali Day. Im flabbergasted that my msn contact list has been wiped out on wednesday.. even my email contacts list too. I have to re-trace back friends' emails.

Something pretty awesome..
a new friendship blossom between me and a new friend, Eva, she just came from the Philipines not long ago. However, She'll be flying back due to revoke of work permit. This few days i could sense God speaking to me... I was choosing a gift today for Eva. God hinted me to give her a christian book... i have no idea which and due to time constraint i got another item. It turned out that out of the sudden, we were talking about reading then it struck me that i should have bought a book. Gona check out another time.

Other incidents would be... i was thinking of something at a particular moment and the next moment, it happened... just like Dejavu.

i have a huge appetitie in READING these days and am turning into a salad lover. *grin

2008-10-22T08:42:00.000-07:00

never underestimate the power of sweets on kids. Brought a few sweets and decided to reward today's swim kids. i was amazed by how motivated they were for the sweets. I made them swim many laps, kicked hard, blow bubbles... short breaks and more laps again. (: Finally, it's rewards time. Everyone chose one and eagerly opened the wrapper and popped the sweet into their mouth...

Went gymming this afternoon at Suntec's Planet fitness outlet, the view of ferris wheels (sg flyers) as i was exercising. I quite like the view but.... most of the machines are the same. For a moment, gym equipments made me feel exercising is boring. At least i did crunches! Going to try another outlet tomorrow.

2008-10-21T07:31:00.000-07:00

feel like going for manicure. Neon pink nails! i like the colour. Meanwile, im having headache and dizziness, and some people are driving me crazy.

student Aerial tricked me!

Aerial: " Teacher Hester, how do you spell icup?"

Me: " Hmm..... i-c-u-p."

Aerial: laughs and laughs..

Me: pondering whats wrong. Then i figured out i-c-u-p can means.... "I See You Pee."

Both: laugh..

Then she continues with other lame jokes...

2008-10-19T10:41:00.000-07:00

Been a busy weekend. Godchasers had a picnic at Botanic Gardens! A day we sign our covernant with God and one another. Update the pics next post.

Check out the jump shots Ade & I took at Dawson Place. (:

2008-10-16T09:30:00.000-07:00

been sneezing so much for the past few day thanks to the flu bug. Noisy nose. I loathe the bone aching and cold turkey experienced. Crave for berry juice steps in. Recently, I encountered a student who sneezes 11 times continuously and its common for her.

Upcoming Saturday... everyone in Godchasers will be dressing up! (: cameras in action. I bought something to wear too. It reminds me of stage peformance. *hush.. We guys had buffet at Sakura @ Somersat just yesterday. I bet we ate much more than a bunch wrestlers. Being a cake lover, i didn't even touch a single cake. Not enticing enough. :P

Tomorrow's my hair appointment.. i do want a fresh look but i don't want to look unnatural.

2008-10-13T09:05:00.000-07:00

A little swim kid, Keith, kissed on my cheek after swim lesson today! a water phobia boy (4 year old) whom likes to scream and cry, if i dunked him into the pool. I decided to carry him and dunked ourselves instead and the method work. I had it captured in a video too... *grin. then on, he became a fanatic about dunking his head in the pool, enjoying blowing bubbles. He even tried to dunk his face into the scoop bucket but.. his head's much bigger but he gets the idea that dunking isn't as scary as it seems. He's happy so am I! (:

Stumble upon a shop after i failed to collect my guitar and bought 12 surfing tops! (: it was indeed a good bargain. I could get one top from retail shops for the price of 12. I love colourful designs rather than dull boring ones. These are gona allow me to last more than a year. Teaching a new adult student tomorrow morning!! I'll get some swim too.

2008-10-12T08:59:00.000-07:00

i had enough of delectable food these few days. So sick of them. They make my stomach bloat, sugary level went up! That makes my brain lose concentration.

went ear candle waxing this morning with Ade... Besides ear waxing, the therapist also gave shoulder and neck massages. Rejuvenating though a little ticklish too! I would look forward to more massaging sessions. (: Planning for a full body massage session. The sweet pampering life of mine!

Planning to get hair highlights, getting colours that can compliment well with my sun-kissed skin. As much as i want to obtain my driving license, my friends can't wait till i get mine! i wonder... hmm how's like having them as my passengers. Somebody please remind me to stuff earplugs if i do.... all those noises, jokes and laughter can break my concentration. I've booked lessons as often twice a week in November!

More adults students coming my way! hurray... Wouldn't haven been able without God's help. Gotta admitt, i've been pretty relaxed this week, gotta be back on trailway track.

2008-10-06T08:36:00.000-07:00

Gotta my hands on iphone yesterday, my latest gadget. Its fun exploring the applications and i definitely love the huge screen and being able to surf and msn anywhere anytime. Super happy over it. Im gona put in some games, movies, songs, anime, etc..

Thanks to the weather, im pretty relaxed in work schedule. Hang out with Ade at Novena Sq. talking about Aussie, Aussie and Aussie.

Driving lesson tomorrow. (:

2008-10-02T08:46:00.000-07:00

yipeee.. i love my guitar! Bought it today. My very first acoustic guitar, i simply love the crispy melody from it. You bet im excited about playing my first song... but first, im clueless where and how to start. Im sure God will guide me.

Im listening to Big Daddy Weave (christian) songs! boy, they are good! (: yeaps! im back jogging too. so far, i've jogged thrice this week.

2008-09-29T09:37:00.000-07:00

Knowing that God is there, comforts me when im clueless during situations. Take yesterday's new kid for example, i was actually stress initally cause the kid is 2 years old. Teaching kids at tender age aint easy. But Becky and Jill prayed for me on saturday, cause i was unconfident to perform well the very next day.

To my amazement, it turned out that i was carefree and still clueless while on my way to the pool... viola! i performed better than i expected but i knew it wasn't just me alone. Thank You God. (:

i've baked 5 batches of cookies! Getting better each time. Im delighted that the outcome turned out well compared to the inital tries. I remembered telling Kenneth, i failed in my first cookies attempt. Well, now they tasted like subway's cookies. Chewy, soft and sweet. My students like the cookies.. but they requested that i bake the pizza for them again. I will! Since my cooking has been appreciated... why not. lol.... jk. Actually i love the kids and people around, so i put in extra effort to show them.

Oh yes, i almost forgot i took new swim videos of the kids... need to find time to edit them.

2008-09-25T19:56:00.000-07:00

i love the rain in the morning and that means having extra hours of sleep...

Was scanning my eyes from shelves to shelves at Paragon's Market Place. I found many interesting items, one of them which caught my eyes was colour icing! Cause it's colourful. An idea came to me... i could decorate my cookies or cupcakes next time, customize them. However, i have no idea how does an icing works... they have bottle icing, tube icing, etc. Gotta do some search on it.

Im gona make brownie next after i succeed in cookies. (:

2008-09-23T22:50:00.001-07:00

Today's driving lesson was fabulously enjoyable! Had a really humourous and enthuastic instructor. The last lesson was probably 6 weeks back... but i managed to recall and perform better than expected. A huge thanks to God! Cause i was praying on my way to the centre cause i know im gona get confused with my footwork and judgement on the road . After this incident, i know i can't drive as smoothly as i should without God's help. (:

2008-09-22T09:41:00.000-07:00

I was taken back by conversations from a group of college guys in the bus while i was heading to the childcare pool, I couldn't help it but listen since they were just behind me and talking extremely loudly. One word to describe their conversations and jokes. Shallow! i just can't wait to arrive at my destination.

Its great to be back at childcare, doing a relief lesson. They were pretty discipline initally until i announced playtime, one by one started to swim towards me and tagged my arms. i was squirming away to wriggle free from the clutches of the little kids. It was fun.

That's keith!

Driving tomorrow! (: Now i can be more consistent with more spare time. The idea of getting my own car next year just excites me!

2008-09-21T06:51:00.000-07:00

Oops! i just pop in mint sweets and only to realise its produced in China while eating and reading its tin label. The word "China" just made me stunned for a moment. Thinking i might have read wrongly, i've been pretty sensitive to that name of the country cause of their products and the recent commotion about their milk and coffee products. You won't know which products are under the safety zone... China's reputation is being tarnish.

*Big Smile! Today, I learnt how to make coffee from coffeemaker during Church Cafe duty!!!! Reminds of my favourite Korean show-Coffee Prince. Except that there wasn't any prince... only God's Princesses. I've always wanted to try out working at Starbucks, seems fun and learn their recipes. Second thoughts, i would prefer to chill out with my drink at Starbucks instead. :)

Hester's cookies coming up... cause i went shopping at the supermarket after coaching!

2008-09-19T08:53:00.000-07:00

Its yet another friday again! Thats fast... a new little boy student joined in today's group class filled with 5 girls.... what a lucky boy! But he's more troublesome then the girls in my class. Having water phobia but on the other hand excited to swim. I had to spilt attention span on 6 people of different standards.

Its gona be a long and weekends this time round. I can't wait to find time out for a proper swim.

2008-09-16T07:55:00.000-07:00

im beginning to enjoy waking up late.. (: enjoying my breakfast like i never did, when i was enjoying the extra sleep i have before i rushed to the pool previously months. Reason being, i've cleared the school swim programmes. Just left one more session with the 'monkey' kids next tuesday. I was praying today before teaching them in afternoon.... cause i always end up fuming mad after an hour with them. However, this time round i felt delighted with God's joy and peace, no one can snatch that away from me!

Today's work schedule went pretty well.. except for an incident that boy student threw my fish toy ball and accidently hit another of my adult student's cheekbone. For a moment, she froze upon being hurt and was in a great shock. There wasn't any response, just stood and unmoved for about ten secs. Thats when she teared and got really angry. It must be really painful. In that situation i felt helpless. The same boy was sulking from another incident with his sister during lesson and got into this incident within half an hour. He must have felt very unlucky. Making mistakes that he can't erase.

im looking for interesting portable board games. Meanwhile im dreaming big in a business plan that i have in mind. Back driving next tuesday! (:

2008-09-15T06:25:00.000-07:00

Good news! Jr. is going to Cameron Highlands.. its kinda sad to see him leave but its the best for him. That makes me happy! its really tough work keeping a dog. Especially after i return home from coaching, feeling rather tired, the dog howled to bring him out. In the morning, he howled at my parents.... but not at my sister cause she doesn't bother or wants to get involved.

i wana get a guitar... a white one! (:

2008-09-12T01:26:00.000-07:00

volleyball legless on the floor, swimming with missing limbs, racing without legs, running with artifical legs, ping pong with one arm, etc.. all these are events from the recent Paralympics. Their pictures ring a bell to me that im fortunate enough and yet at times im taking things granted.

I made my first pizza dough. Inital few doughs was shaped nicely.. till the last few my arms get super tired from kneading and rolling, so it end up in a irregular shape. Nevertheless, it was a success! It turned out to be thin crispy crust. (:

2008-09-09T10:11:00.000-07:00

Bumped into Mr Wong. a lifeguard friend whom i worked with a few times last year, im surprised he remembered me! He could recognised me from behind.. since tlast year, i didn't do any lifeguard nor seen him. What a pleasant surprise! (: i also bumped into more a few more friends at the pool. Seems like its a small world out there.

Jr.'s first coat of fur has turned more brownish, after a week of adoption, i've understand its character much better not but he's pretty skinny for huskies. However, i didn't managed to make time out for more jogs just walks..

2008-09-07T06:50:00.000-07:00

Teacher Hester!!!! the enthusiastic greetings from students from a particular condo different directions makes me turn my head around in different angle to trace where is the voice of the student coming from.. i have the most number of students compared to other coaches. i may be "popular" now but years down the road, will i be remembered? Only time will tell...

I was informed Jr. almost bit free the leash this morning after coming out of Raffles Insitution's pool and was hesistating to rush home and check. Im gald God prompted me to, guess what i found? Shredded eaten chicken paper wrapper on the floor, plucked feathers from feather dusters on mom's bed, kitchen in a mess, etc.. the feathers' mess was a pretty hilarious sight cause i was imaginating how Jr. created that mess. i wonder will he sneeze if i tickle his nose with the feathers. *tsk tsk.

Sengkang pool was awesome! i like the environment, so many lifeguards and staffs standing by, about 15 people. Bumped into familiar coaches too. They have huge water slides, water fountains, jaccuzi, one indoor pool and 3 outdoor pools, etc... i wana play!!! i love water stuffs.. it just makes me feel like a kid. I'll take a picture of the pool and my students there next saturday.

2008-09-05T08:06:00.000-07:00

i love eating sweet chilli sauce in my dish.

Tomorrow im heading Sengkang public pool. Its the newest and latest pool built! little students- Ashlyn has been itching to swim (her mom told me since she pause for a month) and Clairabel has been waiting over a year to be taught by me since my previous swim group with her has been disband. We both miss each other lots! Im excited about seeing them! (:

Now i know why dogs are greedy.... Whenever someone in my family eats something, it tiggers Jr.'s nose and he stood up instantly and whine for a taste of it. We can't eat in peace.

My non-identical twins students' parents both each has a iphone! cool.. We were talking with the gadget before the start of the lesson.

2008-09-04T10:10:00.000-07:00

a quick post before i head to bed. Feeling really tired and asleepy...

Today, i've learnt two new korean vocab for 'go' and 'good' from my korean students. I enjoy teaching them cause they are always smiling and cheerful.

Brought Jr. out for a jog... in the beginning it was rather alrights, had him under control until the appearance of another small dog. That irritates me cause Jr. won't budge and refused to head the other opposite direction. I was dragging him and afraid on the other hand the leash and chain might break from its powerful force. Thank God it didn't but he gave me a heart attack but misbehaving uncontrollably... pouncing up and opening his jaw, seems like he's getting ready to attack me. Goodness.. this kinda freaks me out. What if he does really attack me?! Urgh.. im gona ask my friend for tips.

After the jog, we played ball... he gets excited chasing after the ball and i get pulled along by holding onto his leash. Nearly bang the wall with his great speed. He got exhausted back home... in no time after drinking water, he fell asleep. Thats fast!

Well, now its my turn... i'll be fast asleep in no time, less than a minute.

2008-09-03T09:57:00.000-07:00

My buddy, Junior, which is an Alaskan Husky! I adopted from my friend's friend. Its 7 months, white and brown fur with brown eyes but reflective in red. Its huge in size and strong and standing pretty tall. I got a call this afternoon and instantly adopted it. By the way, Husky is my dream dog and also my very first pet dog.

What surprises me was... its a stubborn yet obedient dog. Doesn't bark but whine or howl, a playful dog that doesn't eat much and requires high exercise requirements. (: Im gona jog and walk with Junior twice a day! It will be way cool if he can swim with me too. I like cuddling and ruffling Jr.'s fur. I can't wait to teach it frisbee tricks and hangout at the beach!

Country of Origin: The Alaskan Husky is not a specific breed, but a general term describing any mixed breed dog that gives the appearance of a Northern sled dog. Typically, it is some mix of the Siberian Husky with a Doberman, or with a hound such as a foxhound or greyhound. Some Alaskan Huskies show a clear wolf ancestry.

Character: The Alaskan Husky is eager, energetic, and loyal to family. It is playful and easy-going; some are sociable while others are somewhat shy.

Training: The Alaskan Husky can be stubborn and will take advantage of its owner when possible. This breed requires patient, consistent training.

2008-09-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

Today is Happy Teachers' Day. (: I've received many gifts.. homebaked cookies, chocolate and more chocolates, strawberry cheese cake towel, etc.. even a drawn picture of me with curly hair and two antennas. Hey, wait a minute, why do i have two antennas sticking out of my head? Nevertheless i appreciate all the gifts.

I just realised one of my current new teenager boy student has three thumbs. "You are special!" (thats what i told him with a huge smile) He has eleven fingers consisting of two webbed thumbs. He's an optimistic and intelligent kid, with cute laughter like his little sister, that makes me enjoy teaching him.

My legs are tired from walking so much today from morning and it was ages before today i popped by Far East Plaza in the evening with Adelene. New pics coming up too! *grin

Last but not least, God gave me 11 brand new students in one day, and thats today. Thank Him. How cool is that?! However, i have limitations in my schedule and i took up 4 of them. Out of four new ones, two of them are ultra playful boys.. which im afraid i have a tough time handling, cause i could already see their parents having tough time controlling them.

2008-08-29T08:45:00.001-07:00

SAC's Trysha and Farah and some girls called me over the phone, using the loudspeaker to greet and wish me Happy Teachers' Day.

The conversation goes like this, " hi, coach hester.... (with giggles) Its Farah here, wait, let me put on the loudspeaker, hi (more greetings)... then the girls chord " Happy T. Day" then giggles again, Awww.... cute. I think im gona get diabeties, the girls are just awfully sweet.

They are planning a swim outing to perhaps wild wild wet or a pool. Hopefully i can make it! Meanwhile during spare time in between, i window shopped vivo city as well as National library. Im totally immune to shopping. I got some lime green gladiators slip on a few days back with Ade at Bugis, love it..... im into lime green!

2008-08-26T23:17:00.000-07:00

Im starting to miss this bunch of girls from SAC convent primary already. 10 hours spent with them over the 2 weeks, seems like they became part of my life.. They are all lovely, sweet and chatty girls! Bringing smiles and noises everywhere they go. We'll be keeping in contact via emails. Teaching them has indeed brighten and changed my life in a way or another. I even received Teachers' Day present in advance. From their true encouragement, sheer determination and most importantly God in their midst, thats what makes a convent school special and im proud of that! (:

I've cleared 2 school swim projects, another to clear tomorrow and last one left in 3 weeks' time, and that means more time to workout in the morning and drive!

2008-08-22T03:31:00.000-07:00

With this wet weather in Sg, the Bigger the umbrella the Better! (: However, if its other country perhaps will be blown away by the wind, that would be another Mary Poppins!

Did i mention that the egg tarts from anchor point (the mall opposite Queensway's ikea) is simply unique? Their inner tart taste like egg beancurd while the outer crust taste like pineapple's crush (without the pineapple taste of cause), its pretty huge and yours for a dollar. The taste just sets my mind lingering about it.

2008-08-19T07:07:00.000-07:00

Wet weather for the past two days reminds me of rainy season. Brrrr.... im definitely not a winter person.

Gonna coach at Raffles Institution for 3 sundays. (: I wonder how is it gonna be like.

Been feeling rather stressed up these few days, managed to bring down the stress level partially by hanging out at the library and taking deep breath.

i miss driving! im going back gymming real soon since my previous gym club closed down in May.

2008-08-16T19:35:00.000-07:00

Taught another two new korean kids on friday, they are my current korean's student's cousins. Well, only managed to understand one korean word from their conversations... looks like i can take this chance to learn korean. (:

2008-08-14T07:01:00.000-07:00

i just turned 23 on 10th August. :) A heartfelt thanks to all whom had wished me. Im surprised even a long friend whom i didnt contact much for years, never fails to wish me every year. Thats so sweet.

Olympics is definitely a remarkable event, of cause swimming is my all time favourite event. Everyone in the world is astonished at the amazing world record set by the reknowned swimmer, he's none other than... M. Phelps! with 11 Gold Medals. He's same age as me! I salute him.

I've been trying out coaching some neighbourhood and girls school kids for their swim programs. I've decided not to teach the primary neighbourhood groups especially boys cause they are monsterous and out of control.

I've been swimming yesterday and today for an hour half! indeed a good workout i must say..

2008-08-06T09:24:00.000-07:00

Banana fruit juice! Was drinking it this afternoon and im craving for more.. infact, im gona try make an effort to blend all sorts of fruit juices as daily intake. I wana try braidings for my hair! (:
Had fun swimming with Erin and Megan today! carrying the both of them when they climbed onto me. Sometimes they can be like glue.. *Ah.. Timber.... im falling. We were pretty much the centre of attention in the pool among the crowd. We played a game call pancake. Flipping the floater and turn her over facedown into the pool. The kids managed to flip me over and i was surprised.

During the later part of swimming, two italian girls came and played with us. One hugged me from the back and piggyback her, the other squirted water. I'll should have captured and video the moments down... but i forgot, next time! *grin.

2008-08-05T08:40:00.000-07:00

Coached at Yishun Safra with a new bunch of school primary kids. My first time there. Im surprised all of them could swim pretty well, much better than my other bunch of school kids. As usual there will be some playful kids in the group, boys especially... *tsk.

This time round the playful kids each try to dunk me into the deep pool by pushing from my back unknowingly, i let out a scream cause i could feel im slippering towards the pool edge but... phew their plan failed cause im stronger than them individually. *smirk.

However, that doesn't stop them from planning union among each other. Im so gona get it from them next week since i promised. Get ready to be dunked! i can already imagine their laughters

Overslept these few days.. not again today. Overslept by an hour and reached the pool 17 mins later then i should.

2008-08-04T20:46:00.000-07:00

Guess whats my best birthday present this year? Its my little sweeties, Erin and Megan flying back from H.K today for 6 days and im gona spend time with them at the pool. (:

i feel that driving is not as easy as it seems.. i still prefer to be on the passenger's seat.

2008-07-30T08:12:00.000-07:00

How does conducting a swim camp in Shanghai's heated pool sounds? I think its rather cool.. a Singaporean swim parent was planning the idea if im able to travel and visit them in the future there. i don't mind!

2008-07-22T09:21:00.000-07:00

i thought i booked my usual day and time slot for driving lesson this week. Turned out that i forgot about it but... God managed to leave one last space for me! (: Hurray.

Gotten a chance to coach two new HK kids on a holiday here in sg. Was being approached while coaching another kid and the next moment im teaching the new kids. Accumulatively, in total i spent 8 and a half hours coaching today! 3hrs in the morning, 1.5hrs in the afternoon and 4hrs in the evening. Unbelievable! I didn't realised it was that long , luckily i was teaching at the pools nearby.

Many kids noticed my pink newly diy painted nails! I didn't expect them to notice until they commented about it. There's always new surprises with kids. Good news, i've gotten my voice back!

2008-07-20T08:54:00.000-07:00

i crave to play Ping Pong! there's two ping pong tables in near my block.. yipee. Gotta find bats and a net! I remembered i used to play ping pong at home with my wall with hard cover storybooks. Surprisingly, it works! it was alot of fun and i didn't spoilt those books. *grin.

I lost my voice since friday afternoon.. due to raising my voice over school kids during their lessons. As often as thrice a week, hence couldn't speak fluently out loud for more than 7 words, after the 7th word i became voiceless.. however, i can whisper for long. Its hard to conduct lesson this way cause the students have to decipher what im trying to say. God healed and regain my voice (hoarse manner) kinda on and off.

Two of my sweeties are flying back to sg from HK next month for 5 days! Megan and Ervin, Their mom was texting me that they're keen in swimming with me and they miss me. I miss them too! Neat! Thats a plus point for more exciting activities in August.

2008-07-16T10:10:00.000-07:00

I just had my 4th driving lesson on the road. This time round, it wasn't in the circuit. Its out of the circuit. However, im still nervous in controlling the steering wheel. (:

Gona try out cable ski at ECP tomorrow evening. Im all excited.

Meanwhile, been irritated these days by people telling me what i should do and shouldn't do. Also by people who kept spelling my name wrongly especially in smses (even after i rectify their mistake) Its not Hesther. Its Hester. Get it??

2008-07-13T09:12:00.000-07:00

Nubian Gents performance yesterday in church was awesome. Now i wana dance. Not just dance but dance with the joy of the Lord in me! Games after that, followed by a massive potluck dinner gathering with Godchasers. Everyone's stomach was full to the brim! *grin.

We can fly, I just knew we can. (:

2008-07-11T19:09:00.000-07:00

was coaching a neighbourhood primary school swimming this morning with 18 other coaches in the same pool. Yea, imagine how crowded and manifested with kids it was. Class was commencing and it was only the first 15 mins of the session and my patience ran out. I was so so so furious that i scolded them by shouting. Its an hour and half for a session.. Time seems to crawl by.

I think i had one of the worst group ever among them.. 45% of my group were in their own world. Only the girls are obedient... what a challenge. The boys, need ALOT of disciplining.

Shengjia & me. We took some pictures in a shop which my friend works in. (:

2008-07-08T10:23:00.000-07:00

Thank God for the doors of opportunites awaiting for me... to teach in clubs and ACJC but i can't managed to fork out the time and it doesnt fit in my schedule. Out of the blue, little Dyllis is back from Shanghai.. her mom was requesting some lessons for her before she flies back.

Last saturday, sermon was about honouring our parents. It wasn't easy to honour them 24/7 but nevertheless as long as i do my best.

I gotten a whole load of nursery rhymes that makes coaching with little kids while singing much more fun. I realised i do have limited nursery songs in my stored brain. The songs i can sing without missing any lyrics is.... twinkle twinkle little star and humpty dumpty! *lol.. i also like little kids christian songs.

2008-07-03T08:03:00.000-07:00

Coached Tampines Secondary students swimming! Boy, it was superb fun.. though it was a mix school but my group was filled with girls. All malay girls. Pretty surprised that they were pretty obedient despite being super noisy and playful as compared to other groups. It was kinda weird being called "cher" its their short form for teacher... "cher"

2008-06-29T08:58:00.000-07:00

my finger went 'click click click' at and in the pool. I like the lush colours of pictures taken from my new PINK camera. I just realised its also freezeproof too. Maybe i should do an experiment in the freezer. Hmm.... grow an ice-beard and take a shot of it perhaps?

I like the show Pushing daises. The storyline is rather cool. Watch it to find out why. (:

2008-06-28T08:29:00.000-07:00

Something caught my eye... Its a camera! I selling away my underwater camera for a good high fetched price (to be sold next week) and planning to get another NEW waterproof camera. My dream camera would be a SLR model. However, SLR cameras aint waterproof and can't record videos. No hurry, i'll take a step at a time to save.

Guess what, my latest new students are two 60 plus year old grannies. They swim weekly on their own and to my surprise, they have even better stamina then my young adults students. (: Ain't they such motivators? yea, i'll be trainning for long swims whenever i have time after coachings. Will be teaching five new students next week.

I miss driving.. didn't manage to book, its full... so gotta wait till mid of July.

2008-06-24T07:30:00.000-07:00

Its my sister's birthday today! (: Mine's in less than 2 months later... hee. Muscles soring from Sunday's long jog.

Argh! i woke up 15 mins before class (school project- Chij primary) commencing at 8am. Rushed off to my pool on my bike and phew, i was on time and slightly early. Im incharged of the blue group of 20 kids. There were in total 60 kids. Well, it wasn't easy carrying out instructions to a big group but it was fun. Got to know new coaches too.

2008-06-21T09:40:00.000-07:00

My Goodness gracious me! an hour of trying to coax and coach two European toddlers (individually 30 mins each) wasn't a pleasant experience to my ears, not forgetting to mention other pool users at that time. Out of that one hour, there were wailing, crying, screaming, struggling for 50 mins. Just like a human siren. Both of them were wailing for 'mama'.... struggling away from my grip, and trying to escape out of the pool.

That's when i quickly carry them back into the pool. At the last ten mins, it was total slience (Thank God) as i managed to distract the 2nd girl toddler with my squeaky fish toy. Making sound animations and movement with the toy, creating an 'alive' fish and eventually made her laugh and smile. *phew.

Boy oh boy, sounds like im some kinda of tormentor... I feel sorry for the other pool users at the pool. Disturbance of the serene atmosphere while the sun is shining brightly. Well, i will feel that way, if im them. I would love to dunk the toddlers to slience their wailing.... that's a bad idea. They will just cry until they explode. This isn't the first encounter of kids crying so im pretty much used to it just that this duration of wailing is much more longer.

2008-06-20T10:09:00.000-07:00

scribling schedules... pic as shown below

Taught 4 new students today. Ate durian's puffs... which i've bought it at regan's shop and bumped into him as he was delivering to his shop.

2008-06-19T08:26:00.000-07:00

June holidays swim program for my Bedok class is almost over! oh boy, am i going to miss those kids. Such cheerful voices of greetings whenever i see them at the pool. I could simply recite their names from my memory bank. Next week, new task! I'll be involved in a school swim program, chij students.

yesterday evening was conducting adult swim class at woodlands pool, which is newly renovated. Each adult student has an interesting character, we all had a fun time. My favourite part was.... all four ladies had to jump into the deep pool of 1.4m depth. Their nervous expression upon standing by the edge facing down ready to jump. I was being pushed unknowingly into the pool by student, Ruby. How dare she!? *grin..

Turned out that Ruby wasn't the bravest one, the least infact. It was a simple task but it takes double the courage for the ladies to do so as compared to kids. I've gald no one gotten heart attack cause i love to jump, dive and created big splashes. I can be a mean instructor as times eh... *hehe.

i itch to play tennis!

2008-06-16T05:22:00.000-07:00

im inspired! im collecting ideas for a room revamp. I've borrowed 9 interior magazines for ideas.. (:

2008-06-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

yesterday was my 3rd drive and it was exciting! terrified at certain part but its exciting. I think the most exciting part would be to be involved in an accident... (skip that thought for me) learnt how to drive with faster speed and turning sharper bends. I didn't mount the curb! but someone did... phew, i ain't that bad as i think. (:

Been really coped up with coachings, ending after 9pm almost daily. Im not complaining cause they are new adult students. I wana catch some movies (shown last year) back home during my free time. Yea, thats like almost before my bedtime..

im looking forward to brush up on my tennis in the future.

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

trying out a new brand, Kellogg's wholegrain and high fibre cereal. there's a different taste.... it tasted like puffed up plain popcorn with cornflakes and raisins. my verdict? It doesn't taste as delicious as i thought it would be from the package. (: Nevertheless, its tasting experience!

Borrowed a stack of hair magazines from the library. Loads of interesting ideas to style out different images.

2008-06-04T22:51:00.000-07:00

Loads of positive interesting stuffs have been happening except for last Sunday, a theft case happened to me... while i was coaching in a new and small condo, Tangerine Grove. Everything was not stolen except money. $220 cash. Such dishonesty... disappoints me. But im a getting alarm system lock which gives out super loud noise if the thief targets on me again.. heh heh.. there's a show to watch! U bet, i can't wait.. smirk.

Anyway, i wasn't super upset cause i prayed and trust God that He'll blessed me back and indeed He has... all of the sudden, some current students wants lesson twice a week and came a new student too. To add up the new earnings, its more than what i've lost.

Yesterday was my 2nd driving lesson... i didn't get ample sleep so was alittle carried away during practise but they have interesting instructors. This time round, my instructor's from hongkong, i figured he was non local from his English accent's different. Trying not to yawn in between. Hee...3rd drive next wednesday. Sometimes i pity my instructors cause.... i tend to brake my car harder than i need to, so it tends to stop abruptly.

Im into badminton recently... i totally love it cause its a really really fun workout. im going to try wakeboard probably next month and sailing at the end of this year.

2008-05-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

Radical conference starts today! Every choice has a consequence... a pastor from new jersey taught a new dance. (:

Taught some new students! New names to remember. Due to bad weather, had to cancel my last lesson. The kids (3 yr old twins) were disappointed and after speaking to their mom. They were talking to me on the phone asking when am i coming but i had to tell them that, its raining and lets have swimming next week. From their cute voices and replies, i could imagine their adorable expression on their faces...

i want a picnic lunch basket which i saw... so that i can pack healthy lunch or snacks during long hours at the pool. *smile

2008-05-29T06:53:00.000-07:00

im smiling away! My very first hands on drive today was superb FUN! i like the feeling of taking control of the wheels in the circuit, turning bends from the road marks. Can't wait for my second drive next wednesday. (:

yesterday, one of my new swim boy student suddenly told me while practising swimming.. that he's gona draw a picture of me. Aww... i replied him, " Sure! draw a picture of me and the whole group." Hmm... i wonder will he remember to draw it. Such a sweet boy.

More new students coming my way soon... Yipee..

2008-05-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

I was feeling stress in handling and even before teaching a new group of 8 kids (for 12 lessons), feeling pressured but im trusting and letting God take control of the situation. im losing count of the number of hours im at the pools in a week needless to say, in a month!

From the recent climate, im turning tanner, darker, whatever you describe.. Did some gym workout and swimming with Ade and Astly (ade's cousin).. im their offical 'treading water' time-keeper. I must say, they tread longer than i expected. ten mins! i like the 'glass house' gym with the pool right infront of the treadmill. i would like my pool be right infront of my room or kitchen. That would be a way awesome. (:

I ate wan toon noddle for lunch & dinner! will be clocking more hours at the pools for the following weeks.

2008-05-23T08:22:00.000-07:00

sometimes i just dislike making decisions.. but i've decided to take another step of faith in God to make a decision to let go of a group of students (cause their attendance aint not consistant) I hate to say goodbye but i've to break the news to them tomorrow. Meanwhile God answered my prayer. He gave me 2 new little students (from U.K, England) to replace this slot. Im excited.

Next week's June holidays will be a terribly busy period for me. I've a new group of 8 kids for june's intensive swim program (3 times a week), a handful of other kids' siblings and my little cousin.

Next thursday's gonna be my 1st practical driving lesson. Im gona drive a manual car! now that makes me twice as excited. For now, im tired.... bed time! Coachings again tomorrow. (: but i get to attend church.

2008-05-21T09:51:00.000-07:00

im hungry! and its 1253am.... im out of milk for cereal. Instead of LaserQuest on Vesak Day, we went Settlers' Cafe @ Holland. *grin. I've new pics once again!

Ade's small group members of Godchasers. Can you Spot me? (:

Close to the nature. Jump closer to the sky!

2008-05-13T23:59:00.000-07:00

new pics edited! im having fun awaiting what may be the outcome of the pic before it has been edited. Recently, i've been coaching at some different pool, i call it pool hopping! a change of environment. (:

2008-05-11T07:44:00.000-07:00

looking forward to the upcoming Vesak day public holiday.Gonna play laser Quest with Godchasers! Praying that we'll be able to book the slot.

two fun pics that i've edited. Snap shots are fun indeed! *grin.

2008-05-07T08:37:00.000-07:00

back in my jogging shoes after somewhat felt like months though the last jog was on 1st May. Tried a new jogging route around my neighbourhood at night alone. Pretty enjoyable, i shall try to do it as often.

During one of the swim lesson, was playing 'catch the (squeaky-toy) fishes' with Joshua (christian's little brother, whom look alike that i do call the wrong name unknowingly sometimes) and he'll say, "I'm not Christian". (his brother)

Here's the scenerio:

Me: catch the fishes, Josh! Im gonna get `em.
Josh: (struggles to swim forward with swim noodle under his arms) no, go away.
Me: (laughs) Yes, i am.
Josh: Fishy come to me! (he's still swimming forward with great effort)
Me: No, me!
Josh: Fishy go away from her. (when i could just reach it within a few cm away)
Me: (laughs again and let him catch them)
Josh: caught you! (smiles)

A simple catch game with Joshua, just makes him more adorable.

2008-05-05T08:49:00.000-07:00

Been eating cereal for weeks.. Milk and crunchy whole grain cereal. It taste delicious not forgetting healthy. (: Im gonna try yoghurt and cereal. However, cereal cost more than junk food.

Gonna sit for my Final driving Theory in july! *grin..

2008-04-30T08:27:00.000-07:00

I didn't expect to teach my Secondary IJ school seniors (3 years older) swimming recently. I've seen them around my secondary school days and around my neighbourhood but didn't talk a single word to them till.... they sign up for swimming and i was asked by a swim company to teach them. Talk about coincident! Right, so it did feel kinda weird teaching and correcting them.

However, i noticed my seniors putting on weight... (thats the scary part, when u exclude P.E out of your lifestyle) Poof! and suddenly there's a spare tyre around the waist. Or poof! flabby arms... the worst is yet to be imagined. Especially if you're stuck in an administrative job and that the exercise one would be getting would be just the mouth and fingers.

Meanwhile, Mom wants to get a hair perm. I offered to sponsor her for a new hairstyle. (she's my mommy! i don't mind spending a little for her) Im also gona give my mom swimming lessons too! I need to push her to workout. ( i bet she'll have a nice tann and shaped up after that) I got to push myself to jog long distance too. Haven't been jogging for 2 weeks but i will REAL soon! (:

2008-04-29T08:14:00.000-07:00

wanted to swim 30 laps but managed to cover 16 laps. Instantly i could feel my body toned up after the 'long' swim! i'll swimming more laps the next time round then! (:

2008-04-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

Pictures time!!

2008-04-25T10:09:00.000-07:00

Ade helped me chose some new clothes' designs. Im experimenting a different style. (: If you bump me in the streets, you'll definitely catch me in a shirt & shorts. i don't need to dress up much when im heading the pool most of the time!

So happened passed by the mall and gotten my hair extensions removed today! Bump into church friend, Vincent. Went to the warehouse to get swim stuffs.. I guess i didn't like how the sales auntie's attitude initally when i was asking about the coach previleges & discounts while choosing my items. Until im ready for payment and flash my coach membership card and thats when she started to ask questions and being nice but before that i was just 'another customer'. i was being polite, i did what i had to do and went off with my purchases. I don't see the point in being rude, i won't want anyone to spoil my day would i? (:

Today i taught the skinnest new girl swim student i ever had, she looks healthy but just way too skinny.

2008-04-22T06:44:00.000-07:00

More new swim pictures were taken! Can't wait to find time to develop them. Here are some of the new shots of Christian (half american boy). I've got loads of organising of stuffs to do too.

I passed my basic driving theory last friday! So elated that i couldn't help flashing my smile after the test. Im gonna swim at a 4 metres pool tomorrow! Yipee... More underwater shots definitely!

Ice cream makes me happy. I've been indulging in ice cream often these days. Someone stole one of my toys while i was coaching at the pool today. Hmm...

2008-04-16T02:42:00.000-07:00

Friday's my basic driving theory test in the morning... (: I must quickly get my license so that i can get a car.. and that's gonna be mitsubishi i! I think a hot neon giltering pink would be great! On the other hand, i like other colours too...

before i drift away dreaming fantasizing about cars... i shall concentrate and spend more time studying the theory book! *grin.

2008-04-09T17:06:00.000-07:00

This month, I learnt that life is not all about coaching.. all work and no play can be pretty boring. (: Thats when i changed my concept and God gave me another 11 new swim students within the previous two days. (Praise God) He knows if i can or can't take the work overload. (:

I was pretty amazed that I bumped into 5 groups of friends/students today! three groups of them were walking exactly the same path but at the opposite direction from me. Another one was while i was crossing the traffic light and student's family was in the car U-turning towards my direction (they were waving frantically to catch my attention). The last group was at the same pool that i was in. Talk about being coincident.

2008-04-03T07:23:00.000-07:00

Took some photos of student juliet (10 months old from birth) from France. Today's was her 4th swimming lesson and she has shown great improvements! (: Such an adorable baby too!

2008-03-29T22:25:00.000-07:00

Aden! aint he cute??? i simply love his chubby cheeks. Though Aden is only 2 years old he is much more braver than some of my adults students.

2008-03-27T05:55:00.000-07:00

It was reported in the news that it rained mini hail snow-stones today in Bishan. I wasn't there witnessing it though im staying in Bishan. (:

Managed to knock off early cause of the rain. Had home-cooked dinner too! *delicious.

mini swim tub in the ice cube tray?? (:

2008-03-20T08:55:00.000-07:00

swim kid-Mariessa made a lovely pink card, the contents were how much she enjoyed swimming and drawings of me and her in the pool. Won't be seeing her for the next 3 months due to her school's swim program. Awww.. but her mom promised to get back to me after that.

I've forgotten... to study for my driving basic theory, test date approaching soon. (:

2008-03-11T02:31:00.000-07:00

indovinare ciò che nel mese di imparare l'italiano. Ha deciso di scrivere un paragrafo di esso. Un po 'interessante la sua lingua. Il mio attuale italiana di nuoto kid's mamma sta per insegnare a me come a parlare anche italiano. Provate a pronunciarlo italiano, il suo divertente anche se è una lingua twister azione. Oggi è un altro giorno di pioggia, ma thats andare a darci clima più fresco. Yenching anche il suo compleanno oggi! Buon compleanno!

If you're wonder what was the above paragraph...... the below is what it actually means.

" guess what im learning Italian. Decided to type a paragraph of it. Its a rather interesting language. My current italian swim kid's mom is going to teach me how to speak italian too. Try pronouncing italian, its fun though it's a tongue twister action. Today's another rainy day but thats going to give us fresher atmosphere. Its also Yenching's birthday today! Happy birthday! "

2008-03-09T09:54:00.000-07:00

the happiest person, yep! thats me (: Don't know where to begin explaining why is that so. Especially today, i feel like i could jump high and touch the clouds in the sky! One of the main reason was i managed to share about God with my first student of today. I sense God giving me the 'position' to share with her and change her life by having God in her life.

The other reasons were.... i enjoyed coaching alot, though i've gotten sunburnt on my shoulders. Knowing that all students enjoyed their swimming today. Although i did have some rough start with two students which put me in a difficult situation for a while. However, things turned out unexpectedly. It rained too during 2nd last lesson.... but turned out that the pool became warmer. Feels so cosy submerging in it. *grin

While i was changing in the changing room after work, i heard two little students telling their parents "i want to swim somemore, its so fun" Hearding from their positive remarks really makes me really really happy. Thank God too! I think i've become a little more cheesy too, in cracking jokes during lesson time... more reasons why im happy, my 2nd letter from Korea is on its way to Sg. (:

2008-03-01T06:23:00.000-08:00

Gotten an MMS text from the police about the wanted JI criminal guy. Gotten frightened for a moment upon opening the text. Of all people... why did they send me. *hmmm..

Taught another swim new student yesterday, this time is an adult from America, Chicago. She was an elementry teacher back in states before she moved here for 3 years. A very jolly mother too!

I've just enrolled driving in Ubi's driving school. Can't get my hands on the wheel.... so excited. Im hoping to get my first car end of this year. I need it for travelling all around sg's swimming pools.

2008-02-27T18:32:00.000-08:00

I used to 'wish' how cool is it to have a pool like one of the particular landed house with its own private pool along Mountbattern road. To my great surprise, one of my new student's uncle owns that particular exact pool which is that same pool. So i've gotten the chance to actually swim in it. Her uncle owns a famous toiletry company.

I find it not enclosed enough cause there are buses and vehicles that passby it, not enough privacy. On the hold, i like the place (cause of the pool perfect for pool party or gathering ), a bungalow with spacious land, its about 3 times as spacious as other landed property but i like penn-house better! i like high rise apartments with huge clear windows. I like glazing through far from high point. (:

2008-02-21T06:12:00.000-08:00

Taught a new student and found out that her family is from Korea. Cool! My first Korean swim girl student, Jae-won. (: Upon hearing her name sounds rather Korean-ish (if there is such a word for it) I could tell that she's a cheerful and intelligent girl. Absolutely enjoy teaching her. Her English accent is rather american too. Looks like thats an opportunity to hear 'live' korean.

Oh goodie good... a list of new students to coach, a few kids, 3 adults (yes, adults... dont laugh!)and another 5 infants. (: that's gonna add about 13 new students. Im gonna be a very very busy swim coach. That's just the start... plus aint done yet with my NUS attachments. Yes, Thank God! For the increase of students, im still leaving my precious saturday slot for church.

Well, gonna do some reading and sorting out schedules! Haven't been able to wake up for the pre-dawning jog this week, i shall tomorrow. I've a letter to write to Korea too!

2008-02-20T08:24:00.000-08:00

The weather makes me feels like im in a grilling oven.. I've received my first letter from my korean penpal. I can write and learn korean words now. (: first, gonna borrow some korean language book.

Im into scarfs... liking korean's fashion dressing.

2008-02-15T09:03:00.000-08:00

Japanese sweet treats (gift box) from student-Mariessa. The bunny is just so irresistabily cute, to sink my teeth into it.

I bumped into a crazy young fella (in his teens) within the train station today! I was waiting to hand my friend some documents and there he came sitting next to me asking if i knew how to help him to transform into a female. Told him its not right.. i aint a plastic surgeon. Almost drive me up the wall, cause he kept repeating the same question and he desperately wants to be a female. Nut case. I tried ignoring him with earphones plugged in my ears, for a few moments he waved at me for attention. Finally after probably about 20 mins of conversations and repetitions, he walked off after i ignored again ... phew! Thank God!

2008-02-14T15:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Wanted to ice skate and organised a ice skating outing but the ice hockey team was practising, drats! A wasted trip all the way to Jurong, I still prefer Kallang's rink, its bigger! In the end, we went Karaoke box.. Turn on the music and a microphone please! It was my first time singing karaoke... It was really breathless half way singing and hilarious hearing me sing.

This week im starting a new jogging routine at 530am. Its really refreshing to jog against the morning breeze and watching the sky turning brighter.

2008-02-03T05:40:00.000-08:00

Ice skated again the next day after thursday, two days in a row. Improved tremedously but fell loads too. 15 times! I was more daring this time round and went ahead trying unceasingly for 2.5 hours. I tend to land on my right butt cause it hurts till this moment.

I found a delicious mango dessert at a Japanese resturant! Gosh... im gona taste it again. Meanwhile, i wana ice skate again. I tend to doze alot during bus rides these days but always wake up at the right moment. (:

Ooooh.. im so excited. Megan, Ervin and Dilly are all flying back during the CNY and gona have swim lessons with them again. Though its a short trip back for them but im surprised they wana squeeze in lessons.

Coaching was fun at NUS today. Head coach, students and i were joking alot today! Even though CNY is around the corner i feel that its like a 5 mins long festival for me!

2008-01-31T22:53:00.000-08:00

i can't sit still! fidgeting in the classroom for the past 3 days during my first aid course at st. John ambulance HeadQuarters. Giving the kiss of life to the dummy again. Gotten to know a few new friends too! One of them is a netball coach, boy am i so gald the course is over.

I felt like i was in Korea when i was ice skating last evening. Fell twice with a slight butt imprint. (:

2008-01-25T07:30:00.000-08:00

Came across something unaware and rather surprising article from the straits time papers about baby swimming- Click to read to find out more. (: Looks like babies with chubby cheeks does have an advantage with their round floats with their legs hanging below their float (from the article)

2008-01-24T18:38:00.000-08:00

my whole next week is gonna be packed.. for attending first aid course, coachings, doing research, activities and alittle of house spring cleaning.

I've got an interesting news! im gonna teach infant swimming! thats ages of 6 months - 9 months. Need to do loads of research on it. The awkward part would be singing nursery rhymes while teaching the infants as they'll be held by moms in the water.

2008-01-22T08:39:00.000-08:00

when thinking of sports car, great works of art and sometimes soccer... one will thinks about Italy. An Italian mom approached me at her pool to coach her son swimming while i was coaching two Arabian boys. Thank God, after much considerations from kid's parents, now i've an Italian student now. (God always never fail to bless me with interesting students!) I find it rather interesting handling international students. Though there might be some communication problems but thats the challenge! (:

Found some Italian language translations:

Buongiorno - Good day
Buonasera - Good evening/afternoon
Arrivederci - Goodbye
Per favore - Please
Grazie - Thank you
Scusi - Excuse me
Parla inglese? - Do you speak English?
Non parlo italiano - I don't speak Italian

I think its just so much easily to enunciate in English.

2008-01-21T05:20:00.000-08:00

Coached a new group of caucasian kids at the childcare today. One of the usual Japanese kid-Tusbasa was indicating his thoughts through his action and verbally. He pointed at the construction building near the pool and the next moment he covered his nose and said its smelly with a cute wrinkled expression. Though we had language barrier but his message has been understood. I could sense he enjoyed swimming from his excitements.

Meanwhile the other kids cried and complained stomachache from their fear of water which just vanished after a few rounds in the pool. (:

2008-01-17T00:44:00.001-08:00

Went blading with Lisa at ECP this early morning. What a surprise, i didnt fall... well, almost did. (: Since my blading skills aint that good but i could walk with the blades and felt like a 'transformer' cause the movements were kinda robotic, the obstacles were the humps but Lisa held my hand and pulled me along but it was enjoyable on the whole. Need more practise, ice skating is gona be the next on my activity list soon! Then hopefully after that, it would be wakeboarding. *grin

I just realised the people that i've met today outdoors were four financial advisers and only one blading instructor. Indeed i've learnt something from them and thats the knowledge of financing and investments.

2008-01-15T02:35:00.000-08:00

i've gotten dunk into the sea after the lifeguard duty for a company's event at East Coast Park yesterday. Reason was.... i was the driest among all the rest. I stayed on the beach while the rest had to rotate shifts by kayaking. Since i've gotten all wet, why not row out into the sea. So i did. The kayaks designs are really cool! The lifeguard team took some candid pictures too. (:

2008-01-09T05:10:00.000-08:00

woke up with muscles soreness.. thats predictable! I guess i took a longer time in my actions today.

Did i mentioned that im into korean shows? hmm... i think their acting skills are really very natural and their storylines are unbelievably interesting. One of my favourite shows that i recently watched would be 'the 1st shop of coffee prince'.