Dream Catalyst

Roast Chicken

2012-02-08T22:43:00.000+08:00

Have always wanted to try roasting a whole chicken. My friend had an organic chicken handy and after a quick search on epicurious app (I've used their recipes and they've turned out yummy. Read the reviews for handy tips), found a recipe for roast chicken.

Less than 10 mins of preparation (olive oil, Italian herbs, minced garlic, sea salt and lemon juice) and the chicken is ready for the oven. A handy tip I read is to put the lemon (after you have squeezed the juice for the marinade) into the chicken cavity. You can also use an orange. Will try that the next time, together with fresh herbs.

Each day...

2012-02-02T23:23:00.007+08:00

Am settling into a blissful routine here in Scotland. I am not one for routines but right now, the routine is what's required and useful. Been waking up real early so my day naturally starts off early. Morning meditation followed by sessions for clients. Am also starting to write again so that's good. Perhaps, I will be able to complete my second book by the end of this trip.

Another new aspect for me is the opportunity to prepare majority of the meals. I have always enjoyed reading recipe books and in the last couple of years, enjoyed cooking. But never as much as this trip. I am having fun sussing out new recipes and overcoming my old hesitation when it comes to what I perceived as 'complicated' recipes. Being able to run energy means I can spice up my food with added positive vibrations.

In the process of preparing the meals and enjoying them with my friends, I discovered that I actually 100% enjoy cooking. And internally, now feel good about my identity when it comes to cooking. That's brilliant!

Off to Scotland

2012-01-27T23:37:00.003+08:00

Am at the airport, waiting for my flight to Scotland. This is truly a go with the flow trip cos' the decision was made just a week ago.

Looking forward to being back there again. :)

Blessed and Abundant Lunar New Year!

2012-01-22T22:52:00.002+08:00

Had a lovely time catching up with my family, cousins, uncles and aunties over our reunion dinner. And this year, we have two overseas guests staying with us and we invited them to join us for this happy celebration. It was a feast of good food, good conversations and good company.

A beautiful way to start off a brand new lunar new year; the year of the dragon.

Wishing one and all a blessed and abundant year ahead!

Crowd. Peace.

2012-01-12T17:06:00.018+08:00

Chinatown Light-up

I prefer to be away from crowds and as such, I have never visited the Chinatown light-up. But this year, I woke up one morning and felt this desire to see it and its festivities. So I asked a good friend and his wife to join me. A date was set and off to Chinatown we went!

It was fun and they assured me that the crowd I encountered was not the usual heaving mass of people. Had so much fun that I think I will swing by to the River Hongbao. :)

Elephant Parade

Over 160 life-sized fibre glass baby elephants, painted and decorated by international artists and celebrities, enriched Singapore’s cityscape along Orchard Road, Marina Bay, VivoCity, Singapore Zoo, Botanic Gardens, museums and more! I saw a couple of them and they were pretty.

On Sunday, my friend asked if I wanted to meet them for lunch at the Singapore Botanic Gardens and watch the full Elephant Parade. So off I went on Monday, earlier so that I can soak in the beautiful energy at Echo Park. I had a very recharging time and it was lovely to be still and just be.

With the circle line, it is now so very convenient to visit Botanic Gardens and I am already planning to be there more often. :)

Appreciating 2011, Loving 2012!

2011-12-31T06:14:00.002+08:00

It is 5.30am and I am up. Perhaps excited to start the last day of 2011. Yesterday was a perfect day and in that happy spirit, it is apt to write my year end appreciating.

The key theme of 2011 would be appreciating the myriad of events and changes that have happened. Both painful events and joyous ones. I learnt from them all.

Remembering and embracing a friend's advice from years ago "It is okay to be misunderstood" allowed me to break my ego and transcend above petty emotions. And this in turn, enabled me to move past the natural feeling of "I am hurt by..." to one of acceptance and betterment. And to be able to lovingly let go.

Keeping an open mind facilitated inner growth both as a person and as a profession. I absorbed the teachings of the wise people I met and the many lively exchanges of insights recharged and renewed me.

Trusting and going with flow gave me such a deep sense of serenity and opened up many wonderful experiences and opportunities.

2011 brought with it many blessings and new experiences - enhanced relationships with family and friends, new friendships, lovely clients/ participants, official book launch, guest at radio talk shows, enjoyable and insightful holidays, my mum being featured in the local papers, workshop at SMU and spiritual growth.

What would 2012 be like?

My resolution for 2012 is to continue my joyous being journey of light and love.

Last year, I started to set intentions instead of goals and it worked very well for me. So here are my happy intentions for 2012:

Being time with family and friends
Enjoy loving and being loved by my partner
For people needing help and who I can help to be able to find me
For Dream Catalyst to reach out to even more people
For Fly Free to touch the lives of even more people and be a catalyst of hope for them
Publication and happy sales of my second book
To teach more workshops in Singapore and overseas
Happy travels
Spend more time in Scotland and setting up of a home there
To further enhance my abilities and enjoy learning/ being time with mentors and teachers
Further enhanced well-being

As the year comes to an end and a new one dawns, the song "I Hope You Dance" comes to mind. So regardless of what comes, enjoy and dance life. Wishing you a splendid 2012!

Wouldn't it be lovely?

2011-12-28T21:38:00.001+08:00

Wouldn't it be lovely
Were our paths to converge today
In the randomness
A spark
A flutter
A beginning

Christmas celebrations

2011-12-26T19:21:00.010+08:00

The Christmas weekend was spent the way I enjoy spending any other day - quality being time with family and friends interspersed with quiet meditative moments.

Our family Christmas feast was a delicious combination of both western dishes and local favourites; turkey, ham, sausages, shepherd's pie blended nicely with laksa, ayam buah keluah, chicken curry, pipa duck, kueh pie tee, roast pork, achar. And for desserts, we had chocolate cake, kueh kuehs, logans, kueh rose. It was nice catching up with my cousins, aunties and uncles.

Too bad I do not drink but it was fun taking a pic with this 6 litre vodka bottle. A fun prop for photo taking opportunities!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T19:54:00.004+08:00

It is Christmas eve tomorrow and this year, will be celebrating it sans my partner. What is nice is that while we have parted ways as "partners", our friendship is stronger than ever. This is precious to me because it is the first time that I want to and am able to remain friends with an ex.

I decided that I will probably have a quiet alone Christmas eve. It is a little paradoxical because I am feeling an occasional tinge of loneliness these few days which is natural. Yet at the same time, I would like to be alone. Spend quiet time reflecting and taking stock of life before it changes, yet once again.

But who knows, flow might change tomorrow. :)

Hola Madrid!

2011-11-18T22:46:00.016+08:00

The past few days in Madrid have gone by in a flash and today, I repacked my luggage to prepare for my flight home on Sunday. Sadness? Hmmm.... not really. Following flow takes away an attachment to situations and that includes holidays! I know that the flow is for me to be back home to continue what I need to do and when it is time, I will be back to Madrid and Scotland.

In the meantime, will continue to enjoy my hols and Madrid!

***

La Mallorquina is located at Puerta de Sol and has been a local and tourist favorite since 1894. When I was here in Sept, I kept walking past it, ogling at the delicious treats but did not have a chance to try any of the them. So this time round, when my sis and I walked past it for an appointment, I walked in (it is always crowded) and the napolitanas de chocolate caught my eye.

It is absolutely delicious and if we weren't in a hurry to meet my sis' friend, I would have gotten another. It is worth every single calorie and for just $1.20 euros, totally affordable! It was only when I googled the shop that I realised that this is one of their best sellers. I can totally understand why!

Another morning (its location is so convenient, near to Sol Metro which we walk past frequently), I tried their trufas de chocolate and it is sinfully yummy. Smooth, creamy and very decadent.

The Templo de Debod or Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple which was rebuilt in Madrid, Spain. The night view of it is lovely isn't it?

We discovered three chairs nicely positioned right in the middle of the path. Perfect for a photo opportunity.

As you know, I love clouds. And this caught my eye, the shimmering silver lining.

Received a piece of unsettling news yesterday morning. It was good that my sis and I went out for appointments. Seeing the beautiful autumn trees and colours helped dispel the sombre mood, nature always recharges and heals.

We went for an appointment at Atocha railway station and this sight caught my eye.

When I was here in Sept, my Spanish friend pointed out the Cibeles fountain to me and for some reason, I wanted to take a photo in front of it which was not possible as it is in the middle of a busy junction. My friend said it's rare that the roads will be closed.

Then last night, when my sis and I were out, the roads were closed and I could finally take a photo. It is only when I googled that I realised who Cibeles is. This fountain is named after Cybele (or Ceres), the Roman goddess of agriculturem grain crops, fertility and motherly relationships. Nice!

It is common in Spain to have a drink and tapas while standing at one of the many tapas bars. I have not done it the Spanish way yet so last night, my sis brought me to a popular one called Bodega de Angel Sierra. It was a good thing that it was not as crowded as it is usually so it was comfortable standing.

After the drink, it was time for dinner. Her friend Sergio brought us to Mercado de San Anton which is located in Chueca, a vibrant area near the Gran Via. The first level of 12 stalls sell meats, cheese, seafood, fruits, flowers, pastries and other items, some precooked. Level two, where we went, has 11 stalls of prepared foods. Public seating on this level is corrala style, which intentionally replicates a Spanish patio for people watching. It also has rooftop restaurants and a trendy bar.

For people who love wine, you can find many good wines at very affordable prices here.

Bonnie Life

2011-11-11T19:33:00.004+08:00

we will get there, somehow :)

I am leaving for Madrid tomorrow, spending a week there before heading home. Two months seemed like a long hols when I first booked my air tix yet the days have sped by. And I have enjoyed every moment.

Some parts went according to plan. Some parts went totally with flow for example, Elgin was not in my itinerary yet I spent three weeks here. I made new friendships. Deepened existing ones. Opened new doors of opportunities. Received flow of goodness. Taught. Learnt. Transformed lives. My life was enhanced. Had to let go. Yet received so much as well.

A cycle.

Am looking forward to seeing my sis again in Madrid. And to enjoy the unfolding of goodness.

Night and Day

2011-11-07T02:48:00.005+08:00

Elgin - watching nature goes by...

2011-11-01T05:36:00.006+08:00

This is the view from the window of the room where I spend my time doing my distance healing sessions for my clients or to spend some quiet time. It is a beautifully furnished room that's totally comfy at the same time. Yet it is the view that keeps me enthralled.

If its a busy day of clients, I love watching the "nature movie" in between the sessions and take a breather at the same time. Beautiful isn't it?

Elgin - good to be back

2011-10-30T01:42:00.013+08:00

My friend Sharon's home in Elgin

Last week, I came to stay with Sharon and her family for two nights and I ended up staying for a week. I had forgotten how much I love this part of Scotland. Visited her in 2008 and I told her then that this is where I would like my home to be in.

In the night, the view is that of stars in the dark night skies. In the day, the view is that of greenery, hills and blue skies. Expanse of space. For a Singaporean like me, it is like being in the 'wilderness' if you know what I mean.

It's great to see you again Hank! He's a softie through and through. And very polite and well-trained too. A couple of days ago, he was eating his meal from his dish bowl. I walked past to throw something in the trash bin. We noticed that for a couple of moments, he 'grabbed' his food and started to eat them off a rug. When I walked away, he went back to his dish bowl. It isn't his usual behaviour to eat from the rug. Then I realised, he was giving me space to throw the stuff in the bin.

Michael and Sharon are such lovely people. They opened their hearts and home to me generously and unconditionally. Michael remembered that I mentioned that I wanted to see the stars. So here we are all dressed up warm and comfy to go outside to see the beautiful stars in the sky.

Had an egg the other morning and it was a double egg yolk! My friends told me that it means LUCKY. Nice!

Michael loves cooking and he enjoys Chinese food. I introduced Chicken rice to him and we decided to have that one evening. We had some leftover Chili con carne so I suggested making bergedels with it. He had great fun making it.

It was my first time making it too, with google it is easy to search for recipes. We used brown rice and it turned out delicious. They enjoy having rice and so I recommended that they buy a rice cooker. Michael bought it and we had Chinese the next evening too. He had a freshly caught rainbow trout from his dad and so we decided on a steamed rainbow fish trout with Cantonese dressing. We enjoyed that too, yummy.

Michael made some stewed apples and it was lovely on toast. A delicious breakfast.

Bought a pair of boots, very comfy and cheap too. Nice for walking around in this weather.

This holiday has been one of going with flow and I made a decision to be in Elgin for the rest of my stay in Scotland. Will continue to enjoy the unfolding of goodness. :)

Home is where the heart is bliss

2011-10-15T04:44:00.002+08:00

There by the river I sat.
Within. Without.
Am. Be.
Union.

I am home. My heart feels such bliss. Yes, these past few days have been busy ones as I have started doing distance healing for my clients who have requested for sessions while I am here. Have also accepted new clients and will also be seeing some clients while I am here. And this weekend is whizzy whazzy weekend, catching up with friends who are in the healing field. So busy weeks ahead.

But there is such a deep anchored-ness to this land where I am that after a session especially an intense one, I just have to step outside and recharge by the flowing river. Or breathe in the energy that's flowing.

Perhaps its cos' I feel a connection to this place and hence, the joy and gladness when I am here. :) Since 2008, I knew that I would like to buy a house here. Just waiting for the abundance to flow in.

This morning when I woke up, I made a decision that I can already start to spend more time here. I need not wait till when I have a home here. I can alternate my time between Singapore, Thailand and here. I could spend days in Madrid (where my sis is based) and anywhere else the Universe opens up opportunities. I can reach out to even more people from different countries.

Liberating. Truly fly free.

Let Go and Let God

2011-10-13T22:00:00.005+08:00

A dear friend is going through a challenging time. And the phrase, let go and let God comes to mind. I am sure it is something she already knows and it is also something that her friends would have mentioned.

Anyone who has gone through dark nights of the soul would know how difficult it is to let go and let God. The very same qualities that make us a better person can often trip us up when we are experiencing our versions of a dark night.

In his book "Dark Nights of the Soul", Thomas Moore observes that the sadness, confusion, frustration, pain, suffering, loneliness, and loss that many people experience during a dark night of the soul can be catalysts to personal transformation. He shares that a blessing may come at the end of this unsettling period:

"Perhaps the dark night comes upon you from inside or outside to wake you up, to stir you and steer you toward a new life. I believe this is the message of most religions, and certainly it is the gist of Christianity and Buddhism. Your dark night may be a bardo, a period of apparent lifelessness that precedes a new birth of meaning. Maybe your dark night is a gestation, a coming into being of a level of existence you have never dreamed of. Maybe your dark night is one big ironical challenge, just the opposite of what it appears to be - not a dying, but a birthing."

Rebirth. New Life.

We know this is great. We want it. Yet we find ourselves stuck in the same repeating patterns till a time comes when we can let go and truly let God. The question is how to do this?

The letter 'D' comes to mind. It is the letter that transforms go to God. Discipline and delight are two qualities that helped me to be able to let go and let God. Perhaps it would be useful for those of you who are going through a dark night right now.

Discipline
When we go through a dark night, this is something that is required. Everyone experiences their own forms of dark nights... overcoming addictions, recovery from a illness, getting out of an abusive marriage or relationship, rebuilding life after a disaster, getting over grief after loss.... yet discipline is what helps us to heal quicker or to transform our lives. For the person working towards better health, it requires discipline to exercise and eat healthier. For the person overcoming addictions, discipline is needed to stay on the path of recovery.

In 2007, I needed discipline in order to recover from a broken relationship. For two years, I could not stay away from this man who I thought completed me and loved me. And I had loved him so very much. For sure, there were happy times and he stirred in me feelings that I had not felt in a very lonnnnnnnnnnnnng time. Yet from the onset, our relationship was not built on compassionate and kind love. I knew it and was at odds with the conflict. But I lacked the discipline to stay away. I was weak and my ego was hurt. The only way that I could experience my rebirth was when I finally went cold turkey. No calls, no more emailing him, no more SMSes --- no contact. Of course it was painful. Of course I missed him badly. Of course I cried buckets. Yet practicing discipline released me from my ego and allowed God to work miracles in my healing journey. The death pangs soon ceased and new life could finally begin. Like how a caterpillar transforms into a butterfly.

Delight
Being able to delight in life and its many moments would make it easier for us to let go and let God. Often when we are going through a dark night, the last thing we feel is delight. Yet being mired in only the painful situation or emotions is what stops us from letting go.

I am thankful for my friends who kept me company and included me in their company even though I was not good company.

I did my best to delight in the things around me; the company of my godsons, the chats with the teenagers I am mentoring, learning how to play pool, the beautiful sunrise and sunset, blogging, my friends' love, the new opportunities... and the more I disciplined myself to enjoy delight, the happier I became. Helping others and focusing on getting them through their dark nights is healing as well.

And soon, I learnt to delight and trust in the unfolding of events as goodness.

***

Let go and let God.

When we have gone past a dark night, we know that it is possible to let go and let God. The catch is that at times, we forget that it is not something that is easily achieved.

In our eagerness to help someone going through his/ her dark night, we might become impatient, imposing or forceful. Remember, it is their journey and they are doing the best they can with the resources they have at that given point in time and space.

Listen to them with compassion. Support them with compassion. Be a compassionate catalyst. For that's all we are, a catalyst and not God.

Peace. Bliss. Home

2011-10-08T05:08:00.011+08:00

We touched down in Edinburgh on Tuesday. The feel and pull of Scotland remains the same as when I first visited it in 2008 even though I was in Aberdeen at that time. Peace. Bliss. Home.

The hotel we stayed in was lovely. Haymarket Hotel is just 10 minutes from Haymarket Station and walking distance to Princes Street. The bus from the airport stops nearby. Reasonable pricing with breakfast thrown in. We shared the family room (a double bed and a single) which comes with a coffee maker.

Thanks to my aunty and uncle, I had the opportunity to sight see in Edinburgh. We saw the Forth Bridge, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile and Calton Hill. My favourite is Calton Hill. Enjoyed the panoramic view of the city, the beautiful sunset and the feeling of utter freedom and bliss. The winds were so strong that I was blown off my feet and landed on my butt

We left Edinburgh yesterday to meet my dear friend Marilyn in Coylumbridge which is near to Aviemore. It was great seeing her again and her place is as lovely as I imagined it to be. I am so very appreciate of the unfolding of goodness in my life. To be able to visit all these wonderful places and more importantly, be in the company of good people.

Just outside her home is the River Druie. Peaceful and spectacular view to wake up to and enjoy. The energy here is strong, powerful and beautiful.

I have introduced Scottish food to my uncle and aunty and am glad they have enjoyed it so far. Cullen Skink, haggis, black pudding, fish and chips (UK style), cranachan... we'll look for white pudding tomorrow. :)

When we were walking in Aviemore, we came across a realtor office with pics of homes on offer. The first time when I was in Scotland, I told Marilyn that I would love to have a home here one day. It would be a lovely place to settle in with a partner. And yes, during the cold months, we could travel to sunnier places. :)

Enjoying Madrid

2011-10-03T21:54:00.005+08:00

If Turin was a place to rest and recharge, then Madrid has been a hustle and bustle. Days been packed with activities, experiences and sightseeing.

When I saw the wide expanse of space and blue skies at the Royal Palace, the word freedom comes to mind. And this is how I feel inside. Am very appreciative of the goodness that has been unfolding prior and during this trip.

It has been fun doing the touristy stuff..had yummy food, took in the sights and spending :) quality time with my sis, aunty and uncle. Good travelling companions are important.

Am off to Scotland tomorrow and looking forward to the next part of my hols.

Hola!

2011-09-30T20:29:00.002+08:00

Arrived in Madrid yesterday. It was just a short two hours flight from Turin. Taking the metro to my sis' friend's place was a little tiring lugging our luggage as there were two changes needed, and up and down stairs. But it was a ultra cheap ride compared to taking a taxi. :)

For this part of my journey, my abode for the next few days is smack right in the city centre. So it's bustling and also very convenient to walk around. When I was in Turin, I did not feel like doing the touristy stuff so I was very pleased that my abode was in the hills with lost of space and greenery. With the recharging and good rest, am ready to do a little touristy stuff especially now that my aunty and uncle has joined us too.

So I feel truly blessed that everything has been arranged and provided for by the Universe in exactly the manner that it's best.

The word metamorphosis floated in this morning. And yes, it is an apt word to describe the feel and flow of this holiday.

In Turin, it was recharge and rest as well as letting go of the past. In Madrid, it is like the transitional period. I had msged a friend that since I arrived in Madrid, something's changed. I suddenly feel 'woman' again, like a return of my feminine energies. I appreciate myself so much more fully.

Her reply: "Fly beautiful fly enjoy, the feeling of being WOMAN energies of LOVE CARE sets you free to shed the shell from which you emerge to embrace the universal spirit that you are PURE WHITE EVERLASTING and FREE.

On Tue, I will leave for Scotland and that will be the next stage of my metamorphosis. Instead of apprehension, I am now fully embracing the change. :)

Rested and Recharged

2011-09-29T15:28:00.003+08:00

In a couple of hours, will be off to the land of tapas and sangria for the next part of my holiday. My aunt and uncle arrived last night in Madrid so it will be fun to connect with them.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my stay in Turin. It's been wonderful just resting, relaxing and recharging. Just what I needed for my body to unwind and relax. I have also been able to write and am pleased the overall feel and flow of my book. Will continue writing when I am in Scotland and keeping fingers crossed that by the time I am back in Singapore, it will be completed. Would be lovely to have the book published in time for Valentine's Day 2012.

And here, it is important for me to show my appreciation to the wonderful family that hosted me in Turin.

Thank you Francesca and Antonio for your warmth, welcome, kindness and thoughtfulness. I totally enjoyed my stay in your lovely home and feels well rested and recharged. Thank you Valentina for brightening my day with your chats and games. I enjoyed our 'little piggy' game. Big hugs and love to all of you! :)

As your quest is enlighten

2011-09-27T19:10:00.004+08:00

A friend emailed me this simple blessing yesterday.

"May your days fill with love and sunshine, may your nights fill with peace and love."

Thought it was lovely and posted it on my facebook to share the blessing with others. This morning, when I checked my FB, another friend had written a message to me.

May your smile be brighten
As your quest is enlighten
Step by step with each universal embrace
Glows brightly the love peace happiness and content
seen through the eye of your soul each day

This message answers a question in my heart which I have been reflecting upon.
This message is an affirmative nod and reassurance from the Universe to go forth
This message melts all fears away and open a new way of looking at things

I was afraid that the quest means letting go of what's norm and the alienation that happens. But letting go and moving forward actually is returning to a true state of norm. And I will not be alone for there will be others alike like me.

Coffee and Tea

2011-09-24T23:18:00.005+08:00

I love the smell of coffee and while I do not need to drink it everyday, it is a pleasure to drink it. Ever since I started doing energy healing, I found that it and sometimes, tea is too strong a stimulant for me. For this holiday, I told myself that I will have one cup of coffee in Italy. That's my quota. This morning for breakfast, it seems the right time to have the coffee as it would go so well with the cake that my friend baked. I totally enjoyed it.

It's been lovely weather so everyday, we have our lunch in the garden. For me, it is a treat to be able to do this. I live in an apartment back home in Singapore as most Singaporeans do. The closest I get to eating in a garden is when I have a meal say at Casa Verde at the Botanical Gardens. So it's nice and pleasurable.

Luci, Fra's mum, came over for lunch. After the meal, she prepared desert tea for us. It is an unique experience for me as (1) the tea is served in a shot glass and (2) each of us is served 3 shots of it.

The first shot is the strongest followed by a lighter version and the last, the lightest version. I like the tea. It's strong (potent just like a shot of alcohol) with a bitter aftertaste. With each shot, the taste becomes lighter and sweeter. A nice experience.

Hmmm.... I wonder if I will get to drink this tea another time before I leave for Spain?

It's Friday...

2011-09-23T21:13:00.004+08:00

The great thing about having long holidays is that when you wake up each morning, you know that there is yet another day to be enjoyed. Of course, the day will come when its the day to go to the airport for your flight home but by that time, you will be ready for home. Unlike short holidays where everyday has a certain sort of urgency to it because in just 3 or 4 days' time, you have to fly home.

My first stop in Turin is as wonderful as I thought it would be. Francesca and Antonio are lovely, warm and welcoming. Their home is in the hills yet close by to downtown (just 20 minutes away). The energy here is very soothing and I feel very comfortable.

I have managed to do my yoga daily since arrival. It is different being able to do it outdoors and with the view of the hills, trees and blue skies. The weather has been lovely too, sunny yet cool. Gimbo, their friendly doggy, loves to come and sit near to me when I do my yoga. And in between he will walk up to me for a pat or two. I feel so very blessed to be able to enjoy this being.

I planned to continue writing for my second book when I arrived but was struggling with the words. Today, the words are flowing once more. That's great!

Fra is a great cook and I have been enjoying home cooked food. It makes me more determined than ever to cook more often when I am back home. In Singapore, cheap food is so conveniently available at our coffeeshops and hawker centres that cooking (and cleaning up) can seem like a chore. But we have so much more control over the quality and type of the food we are eating if we cook it ourselves. So yes, am inspired.

Musing from the hammock

2011-09-22T15:42:00.007+08:00

Here I am, lying on a hammock in my friends' home in Turin Italy. Gazing at the blue skies and soaking in the magnificence of the green hills. There's a gentle breeze with streams of sunlight. All's perfect.

As I become one with my surroundings, I feel the expansion of my being. With each expansion into the oneness, the feeling of appreciation grew till my heart chakra was completely filled with light. And everything that has happened in my life became part of this light.

Memories, experiences, heartaches, betrayals, anger, joys, sadness, grief, celebrations, wonderment, awe... merged into this light that is appreciation.

I am living the example that life is about possibilities. And that when we are able to let go of the past and its accompanying anger, pain and sorrow, we can create a different life and being for ourselves. Even if another person has wronged you or caused you pain, holding onto these memories only served to anchor us to the past or painful situation. Revenge, the need to seek justice or the need to be understood are truly overrated.

In my journey of self-understanding and learning, I have wasted days (which accumulated into years) wallowing in grief and pain. I have wasted days trying to be understood. I have wasted days in righteous anger. I have wasted days crying over lost friendships and relationships. I have wasted days caught in other people's dramas. I have wasted days striving to live up to people's expectations. I have wasted days with numbing schedule of activities to escape.

I have hurt. I have been hurt.
I have loved. I have been loved.
I have given. I have received.
I have taught. I have learnt.
I have forgiven. I have been forgiven.

A cycle.
Awakening. Rebirthing.

I appreciate the simple things in my life.
I appreciate the awe and wonderment in my life.

I appreciate the existing relationships.
I appreciate the new ones.

I appreciate the challenges of being a healer.
I appreciate the bliss of being a healer.

I appreciate the joys of being.
I appreciate the non attachment to being.

I appreciate enjoying the wonderments of this world.
I appreciate being alone in my world.

I appreciate the gift of life.
I appreciate being the gift of life.

First day in Turin

2011-09-20T21:53:00.014+08:00

This is the type of holiday I enjoy; where you wake up feeling relaxed and recharged. At a time and space of your choosing. No hurried tasks or hectic schedule. A blend of doing and being. And best of all, there's more days ahead to enjoy.

Woke up early and after my daily meditation and breakfast, I went to explore around the house. I discovered the perfect serene spot for my yoga. Trees, greenery, sun, blue skies. Quiet too. So one can totally immerse yourself in the poses.

Had a mid morning snack of walnuts and hazelnuts. Fresh ones taste so very different!

And then it was time to prepare lunch. Lovely Fra went to her garden to pluck some greens for our salads. The closest I got to doing this in Singapore was using the basil leaves from a potted plant for my pasta.

Unsure if I will enjoy gardening but I must admit, there's something really appealing about eating what's grown in your very own garden.

We enjoyed our lunch in the garden; nice stream of sunlight yet cool weather. Perfect.

There's a hammock in the garden as well. Will put that to good use tomorrow.

Valentina with Beghera their newly adopted cat. She's the daughter of Fra and Antonio. I wish I understood Italian because it would be interesting to hear her conversations that she has with her parents.

She's just two but from what Fra has interpreted for me and my observations, Valentina can converses with them easily and fluently. She's also highly observant and aware.

This sweet natured doggy is Gimbo.

Aha... so this is why...

2011-09-20T19:10:00.010+08:00

When my sis and I were booking my tickets for this trip, I was unable to book it at the same time as her due to a series of 'events'. And when we finally could, we discovered that the ticket price had increased and if I were to fly in a day later than her, I would have a savings of close to $200. And so, it was decided that I will do that.

This decision did cause stress because I didn't relish the thought of having to make my own way from Milan to Turin. Yet the booking went so smoothly unlike the previous day that I knew that it was the 'right' decision.

It was a full flight to Dubai and I was unable to get an aisle seat. I happily went with flow. When the plane landed in Dubai airport, I requested the gentleman seated at the aisle seat for help to take my heavy bag from the overhead compartment. We started chatting and he asked me what I do. In the short span of 10 mins or so that it took us to disembark, it became apparent that his team of athletes would certainly benefit from learning energy healing. And I was excited because it's been my dream to work with our Singapore athletes as I believe learning energy healing would further enhance their well-being and performance. We will connect and explore this further when I am back in Singapore in November.

Finding the connecting flight to Milan and then, the coach to Turin was a breeze. And it helped me to overcome my discomfort with the unknown.

So it is a good thing that I flew in a day later then my sis, and a good thing that I was given the seat as planned. This is another great example of how we can happily go with the workings of flow and allow goodness to unfold.

May you enJOY your experiences of flow too!

Listen to your heart's voice

2011-09-18T16:45:00.001+08:00

In 2008, I went for a one month holiday in the UK and Spain. When I planned for that trip, I knew it would be a life changing experience but I didn't know how. I just followed my prompt to go and was glad that I did!

The trip prepared me for my big decision to quit my corporate training job to focus full time on energy healing. I sure didn't expect to do so prior to the holiday but after the many affirmations and messages received via friends who I met on the trip, it gave me the added confidence to follow my heart.

That trip was where I discovered how liberating it is to be able to dare to love regardless of what the other person's response might be. And it was in Barcelona that I had the concept and started writing Fly Free. And Scotland was where I discovered what it means to connect to pure source of energy. And most of all, I fully enjoyed meeting and connecting with new friends.

It was my plan to return to Scotland in 2009 and when I met my friend Val shortly after the hols, she gave me this pound note as an encouragement for me to materialise my dream. As with all things, there is a flow and timing.

In 12 hours' time, I will be on board my plane for two months' holiday. Three years later but as with the first trip, I can feel in my being that this would be equally life changing as well. And it is why I 'obediently' followed the prompt to make it a two months' trip though I struggled with the decision for a week.

My logical and practical side argued against the luxury of the time; "what about work? what about finances? what about...".

But the heart voice was gentle yet strong and this voice has guided me time and time again. So I said "yes'.

And when I did, all the logical and practical matters were taken care and provided for. For the past weeks, I had a packed schedule of clients and when I am in Scotland in Oct, a number of clients have also engaged me for distance healing sessions. All's provided for and taken care of. I just needed to say 'yes'.

So it is with a blissful heart that I am off for this experience. My first stop will be to the land of gelato, expresso, tiramisu and yummy comfort food. I have been to Turin many years ago. The difference this time round is I will finally get to meet my sis' friend Fra and her family. And this is what I am looking forward to!

Will blog soon!

Unfolding of Goodness

2011-08-16T19:25:00.009+08:00

My ticket is booked and I am all set for the unfolding of goodness in my two months' trip in Sept. It will be a blend of connecting with friends and meeting new friends, opportunities to exchange insights and do workshops/ see clients, explore new sights and also time for being, spiritual cultivation and writing.

My last trip to Europe in 2008 signal the start of a new path in my life. Shortly after returning from the trip, I decided to quit my job and do my energy work full time. In the same way, I feel this call to make this trip and I believe it will be a deepening of the path that I have chosen.

First stop will be Turin. The plan was to fly there together with my sis but now, I will be flying in a day later because a quirky turn of events meant there's substantial savings for me to do so. My sis persuaded me that this savings can be happily used for the trip. Ahhhh.....

I have visited Turin years back with my sis. This time, I am there to meet her good friend Fra. For me holidays is not just about sightseeing but also to connect with nice people. And so, I am delighted to be back in Turin!

My sis will be in Turin and Madrid for her business and I am tagging along. So our next stop will be to Madrid. I was in Barcelona in 2008 but not Madrid. Am looking forward to connect with her friends in Madrid too and of course, sample the yummy Spanish food.

And through happy synchronicity, my fave aunty and her hubby plans to join us in Madrid which makes it a happy bonus!

After a few days in Madrid, I will be heading to visit my friends in Scotland. I have invited my aunty and uncle to join me for a recharging and relaxing time soaking in the pure beautiful energy! I love Scotland and I can't wait to be there again! My aunty and uncle will stay for a few days before heading back to Madrid. I will be there for a couple of weeks.

As for the rest of the trip, I will flow as it unfolds. Perhaps I will be in beautiful Bath and get to see Stonehenge. Or visit Dublin. Or to London to meet my friends.

Unfolding of goodness indeed!

Writing

2011-08-11T21:11:00.004+08:00

During my BKK trip, I started writing again on my second book... it was a good writing space and the words were flowing once more.

And I am continuing to write and that's good. My intent is to complete the draft by this year and get it published by early 2012.

Spain, Scotland and other adventure

2011-08-09T21:04:00.002+08:00

Since I went for my long holiday in 2008 to UK and Spain, I have been dreaming about going back for another long trip. And this year is the right space and time!

One of the things that previously used to bug and stressed me is the planning of flights. Then a couple of mornings ago, I had a personal breakthrough.

I realised that planning flights can open up new adventures and possibilities!

I was trying to find a cheap flight from Madrid to Aberdeen, Scotland. The direct flight is about 130 Euro, one way. Then I wondered what if I were to check the budget airlines such as Easyjet and Ryanair and see where the connecting cities are. They do not have a direct flight to Aberdeen or Inverness from Madrid.

And I discovered Bristol which is where I wanted to go to in 2008 to see Bath but didn't have the chance to. Well, Easyjet flies to Bistrol and from Bistrol to Inverness. And the total amount for the two flights is half that of the direct flight. Bristol has an iPhone app which allows us to easily navigate our way around the city and book hotels etc. So it makes perfect sense to hop on the plane to Bistrol, enjoy the sights for a few days then hop on another plane to Inverness. And I have invited my dear friend Marilyn whom I am meeting in Scotland to join me for the getaway in Bistrol first. Fun isn't it?

Earlier, I was searching for a return 'route' to Madrid and it looks I like I will visit Dublin too!

Like I told Marilyn, this is turning out to be an adventure and it is fun to plan and go with flow at the same time. With all the happy adventures, think I am quite decided that I will be holidaying (and possibly working' as well) for two months. Can't wait!

Happy Birthday Singapore!

2011-08-09T20:37:00.003+08:00

It's our 46th year of independence today. And I am in full appreciation for the many wonderful blessings that this country, its government and the people have given me.

When I was going through my painful years after my divorce, I wished that I had the financial means to flee from this country. I kept thinking how much nicer other places were; falling into the 'grass is greener on the other side'. But there is no greener, just different shades of green .

I sought flight because I was in turmoil inside and I wanted to escape. But true peace is to be found within. When I could do that, then no longer did I needed to fly away to another country.

I enjoy being 'home' here and enjoy the freedom of exploring new places.
I enjoy coming home after being away for workshops.
I enjoy the familiar sights, the convenience of our transport system, the easy accessibility of cheap food, my clean home, the people.
I enjoy being with my family and my friends.

I am glad that I found the peace within. For now, I can truly enjoy Singapore. :)

Conditioning

2011-08-05T20:00:00.000+08:00

It struck me when I was buying some fruits, why do I have to buy 5 apples just to save 20 cents?

So I bought 2 red apples and 1 green apple cos that's what I felt like having.

Good reminder about conditioning and how we can become unaware about it. :)

Hatch Day

2011-07-15T15:19:00.003+08:00

I am 39 today.

The feeling that I am happily wallowing in is that of APPRECIATION.

The past birth year has been blessed through the different experiences and different people that I have met.

My book Fly Free was published and enjoyed a happy launch at the National Library. Dream Catalyst's website is up and am appreciative of the delightful design by my web designer. In conjunction with my book launch, also celebrated the launch of my Recharge series of talks, retreat, workshops and sessions to reach out to more people. My desire to be a catalyst to people is exponentially widening through my book, Dream Catalyst and referrals for clients.

I have enjoyed meeting new friends and being with the present. I have learnt to allow the evolving of some relationships and to trust the unfolding of goodness in what could be taken as "sad event". The flexibility of my schedule also means I could enjoy more being moments with my family.

As a person, the last year has been a continued journey within and expansion of being. Sometimes, discipline was needed to keep me going on this journey. The new insights gained was certainly worth the effort and I look forward to the space and time of effortless.

I am looking forward to the new birth year ahead and the continued unfolding of goodness and being. :)

And a big happy birthday to all of you who are celebrating it today as well. May your days be filled with joy and gladness.

Good Flow Day :)

2011-07-11T23:36:00.000+08:00

The plan was to have a chill and recharge day today after the packed schedule of last week and workshops. Went for a recharging session then visited my grandma. Decided to accompany her for her doctor's checkup together with my aunty. Then the plan was to catch a siesta plus read.

Flow decided otherwise.

Received a call for a much needed distance session for client and I accepted it cos' I have no more available slots this week and I was recharged. Session ended, chatted with my dad when he came back. Then decided to update my admin and accounts.

And right now, I am still completely energised even though my day started early... so will read after all.

Been yet another good flow day! :)

Yoga!

2011-06-30T17:53:00.004+08:00

I enjoy yoga classes and two years ago, when I took over my friend's membership at a affordable price at True Yoga, I was ecstatic. Two years passed and the result is that I hardly went for classes. The journey to and fro was truly a hassle.

Last week, I realised that the best yoga class for me is to do it daily at home. No travel and time hassle. So I engaged a good yoga instructor for one to one coaching right at the comfort of my own home. Took her class sometime back and with 3 or 4 'revision' sessions, was sure I can do it by myself. It was a birthday gift to myself and a good way to start off the second half of 2011.

Today was my first session with her. What a remarkable difference a one to one yoga class with a good yoga instructor is! During the class, I realised that I have been doing some poses inaccurately. Her observations and pointers helped me to achieve better flow of energy. She also takes the time to share her knowledge of each pose so that I have a deeper understanding.

I thoroughly enjoyed the session and will be practicing it daily to master today's poses. Come next week's session, she'll check and then teach me new ones.

It is worth the investment to have a one to one coaching and I strongly recommend Stoney, my instructor! :)

Pattaya and BKK

2011-06-25T20:13:00.013+08:00

View from the hut

Love his books and this was an excellent choice for hols

My massage spot with a most excellent therapist

The Thai sweetened version of Roti Prata

Black Pepper Soft Shell Crab

Sweet and succulent calms

Homecooked Thai food

My friends' pub at BKK

Thick Spanish Chocolate

Traditional boat noodles, comes in small bowls

So you end up eating a couple of bowls

I am still thinking of this sweet coconut drink that I had. Delicious!

Going with flow

2011-06-11T11:57:00.002+08:00

This is turning out to be a truly going with the flow kind of holiday... :)

Each morning, the day begins with the loud "chatter" of the June bugs. The first morning when I heard it, I could not figure out where or what the loud noise was. Till my friend told me. After a quick shower then its my daily meditation time. And after that, it will be breakfast at a quaint little restaurant by the lake (its just a short 2 mins walk from the hut). Very tranquil. After that, chilling around, reading or conversations.

Then it's a 10 mins walk to one of the neighbouring beach for a massage. Yesterday, enjoyed a two hours body massage followed by a one hour foot massage (the very nice lady asked if I would like a foot massage and I didn't need further persuasion). On the first day, I got her and she's v good. So I have decided to stick to her for the duration of my stay here. With the sound of waves as background ambience and the breeze gently caressing you, it is lovely. And all for the price of 660 baht for 3 hours, about SDG $27. Am sure you too will go for a daily massage while you're here! :)

I spend the afternoons chilling, reading and a swim in the club's pool. I am usually the only person there so it is like my very own private pool.

Bliss.

Besides the physical enjoyment of chilling and being, during this trip, I also connected with a wonderful lady. Besides enjoying our lovely chats, it also looks like there will be lots of opportunities for me to be back in Thailand for workshops etc. How nice!

Ahh... the June bugs chatter has started once more. A signal for me to stop blogging and back to enjoying the flow of goodness. Wonder what this coming week will bring as I will be visiting friends in BKK as well as my new friend.

Happy weekend everyone!

Holiday

2011-06-08T09:26:00.003+08:00

Am waiting to board my plane. In a couple of hours, I will be enjoying the sea, sun, good company... First place will be to the www.oceanmarinayachtclub.com. Have not decided how long I will be there yet, in fact I bought a one way to ticket to BKK cos' I could not decided when I would like to be home. :)

After the beach stay, will be visiting my friends in BKK. Looking forward to catching up with them as well.

It will be a go with the flow kind of holiday.
It's a much needed break to review, recharge, heal and be.
Nice!

Appreciation

2011-05-27T14:42:00.002+08:00

Tomorrow is the official book launch of Fly Free at the library. I have been receiving smses and FB msg from friends who will be attending the event as well as well wishes from friends who aren't able to attend. The common question asked: "are you excited about it?"

Yes. Yet the greater emotion that I am feeling right now is APPRECIATION.

The event tomorrow is an affirmative sign that life always get better. And that life and our purpose is bigger and better than any temporal ache or pain that we may be facing.

I wrote Fly Free as an encouragement to the reader who pick up a copy that we can change our lives and transform it to one that is abundant, happy and free.

Last month, a relationship ended and yes, it caused me grief. I used the tools I know to accelerate the healing process and for sure, it is helping me to cope very well with the temporal ache and pain of the breakup. My ex-partner has been highly supportive of my book project and now that I am having the official launch, our status has changed to that of 'friends'.

Such is life, there is no way for us to control change and the unfolding of flow or the unfolding of goodness. We can only control and manage our response/ action. Right now, I am 90% good with the occasional 10% ache still in my heart. But I choose to appreciate and enjoy all the goodness in my life. And I also have accepted (finally) that I have already done everything possible to accelerate the healing. So I need to be patient with myself and allow the 10% to heal in its own time and pace.

Tomorrow, my talk at the book launch is: "Up Up and Away! Learning how to fly free and stay happy above the storms of life". It is a timely reminder to myself that through the years, I have learnt to ride out the many storms in my life and that I am stronger as a result. This heartache that I am feeling right now will heal. And that it is part of a greater unfolding of goodness.

Appreciation.

Life & Purpose

2011-05-21T20:40:00.003+08:00

... is bigger and brighter than any temporal ache of one's heart.

So keep your focus on what makes you happy. Live life as richly and fully as you can even when you are hurting. Because when we look forward to the future, then we allow the ache to fade and heal.

You're invited!

2011-05-16T09:37:00.001+08:00

Endings and Beginnings

2011-04-21T11:34:00.003+08:00

When we look at endings with openness, love and understanding, then it is not an end but new beginnings. An opportunity for us to grow and expand even more into love.

A friend nicely shared it: "A new chapter does not begin till the last ends. A flower gives way to the fruit, the fruit to the seeds, and the seeds to new life".

Relationships are an affinity. Some lasts for a lifetime. Some for a season. Some evolved. Being able to loving let go provides new growth. There may be a grief but that will pass with healing. What's important is the celebration of the awesome goodness that the relationship had provided and the unfolding goodness as it evolves.

My first radio talkshow! :)

2011-04-15T21:05:00.005+08:00

This afternoon, received a call from Michelle Martin, the DJ for 938live show Between Us (Mondays 10-11 pm) inviting me to be the guest on-air this coming Monday. The show's topic: Don't let shyness stop you from making love connections. It's my first radio talkshow and it's exciting (yes yes, a little nervous as well) and will be something fun to do. From the conversation, Michelle is very warm and sincere so am sure we would have a blast on the show!

You're Invited!

2011-04-06T20:55:00.004+08:00

Occasion + delightful company = HAPPY OCCASION

Dear Friends

Through a synchronicity of happy events, I will be having an official book launch of Fly Free at one of my favourite places - the National Library. As part of the celebrations, I will be giving a talk on "Up, Up and Away! ~ How to fly free above the storms of life".

Date: Saturday 28 May 2011
Time: 2.30pm to 4pm
Venue: Multi-Purpose Room, Central Public Library (100 Victoria Street). it is located at B1 of National Library Building.

During the event, I will be displaying drawings on the theme "Happy" by children of friends and from the Fly Free School, orphanage supported by Firefly Mission. If your child loves to draw, I would love to have his or her drawing for the event too. Contact me!

I am looking forward to your company. Till then, enJOY delightful, fly free days ahead!

Hugs, :) B

PS: The more delightful company we have, the merrier so do invite your friends to join us for this celebration. Thank you!

Mooooooooooo000

2011-03-25T20:36:00.003+08:00

In May 2009, I bought a cow and named her Dream Catalyst.

This is a brilliant fundraising idea by my friend Val and Marilyn to generate funds for Val's charity The Safe Haven Project which I support.

Donors' funds are used to purchase a calf which is then raised by a poor family. When it matures, it is sold and the profit is divided between the family who cared for it and the charity. Donors can opt to have their funds returned to them or continue with the project (happy to share that all donors are continuing with project!)

Received an email recently from Val that all 12 cows have been sold and new calfs bought. This is a picture of Dream Catalyst.

I have named my new calf Loving Heart. And I hope that more loving donors will come forward to buy cows. If you are interested to help, drop me an email.

Pleasant Surprise

2011-03-05T22:02:00.003+08:00

I am off to Taipei on Tuesday morning for a last minute holiday!

It started with an sms from my aunty yesterday, asking me to call her when I was free. Her hubby, herself and two others have planned and booked for a holiday to Taipei but her hubby isn't able to make it. And so they decided to gift it to me rather than waste it. I am so blessed!

My aunty is planning the itinerary cos' she is going to be our 'tour guide'. Am sure she will be an excellent one!

She knows me very well and she knows that I will be thrilled to go to a hotspring and just blissfully chill.

It was an exhausting week and this surprise holiday is literally a gift from the heavens. By pure coincidence, my cousin and wifey will also be in Taipei at the same time so we have arranged to meet up.

So looking forward to good company, new sights (it's my first trip to Taipei) and soaking in one of these hotsprings!

Good news...

2011-03-03T20:44:00.002+08:00

Just received email from the National Libary Board giving the go ahead for talk cum launch of Fly Free. It is planned for Sat 28 May 2011 from 2pm to 3.30pm.

I have been a fan of the library and have spent countless hours browsing through the shelves looking for good reads. So naturally, am thrilled that my book is now amongst those on the shelves. And it is double bonus that I wil get to launch my book there as well!

When details are confirmed, I will post it.

Hmmm...

2011-02-14T15:44:00.002+08:00

... planned to continue writing for my second book. Since the words are not flowing, thought I will browse through my blog.

Started this in 2006 at the behest of my dear friend Fi and it's seen me through many different phase of my life since then. It was also a useful resource when I was writing my first book.

There were happy posts, joyful posts and those that were written when I was experiencing emotional pain.

Thank you Fi for encouraging me to start this!

Dream Catalyst Centre

2011-02-13T18:11:00.005+08:00

The time is right for the manifesting of my Dream Catalyst Centre.

It is a happy place where my Dream Catalyst team and I happily provide clients with effective tools and resources to achieve emotional, physical and mental well-being. For us to be a catalyst of positive change through our talks/ workshops, services and interactions.

It is a happy place where my graduates can pop by to share and exchange insights.

It is a happy place where we organise projects/ activities for the community.

It is a happy place of being, bliss and growth.

It is a happy, spacious, healing and safe place that is conveniently located.

How? That I will leave to the ever unfolding goodness of the Universe. :)

Magnifying :) energy...

2011-01-06T21:28:00.002+08:00

Hmm... am feeling this happy energy as I wrote my first post so might as well tap on this reservoir of goodness and write about some of the things I would like to catalyse in the upcoming months.

Book Launch

Instead of a "launch", I decided on mini meetups with friends to catch up as well as to pass them their copies of Fly Free. Felt it would be fun and personalised. But it looks like I will be having a launch afterall through an interesting turn of event... Once the details are confirmed, I will share with you and of course, you are invited! I am looking forward to it because it is not going to be just a book launch but an engaging and meaningful event.

2nd Book

I would like to complete the draft of my 2nd book by first quarter and get it to print by July. The ideas are starting to click more completely and so I will go with the writing flow... :)

Talks/ Workshops
As you know, I enjoy conducting workshops and talks and through the years, have had the opportunities to do so. This year, I would like to give more talks/ workshops on energy as well as on on my book Fly Free. Through synchronicity, I have been invited to do a workshop at SMU. Here are the details if you are interested to attend:

Increasing Your X-Factor
Synopsis:X-Factor in very general term means the unknown factor or the unexplainable thing which adds a certain value to an object, element or a person. As such, possessing an X-Factor is certainly useful to one's life, isn't it? ? Discover at this engaging and interactive workshop, on how you can increase your X-Factor through the natural harnessing of the energy component of your life. When your mind, body and heart is in a healthy balance, it results in a positive inner flow of energy leading to many benefits such as increased self-confidence and attractiveness, improved well-being and enhanced interpersonal relationships be it at the workplace or on a personal level.
Date: 18 January 2011 Tuesday / Time: 0630pm -0930pm / Venue: School of Social Sciences, Seminar Room 3.10, Level 390 Stamford Road, Singapore 178903
Cost: Public : $50 / SMU: Pay only 50% of workshop fee
You can click here to register for the seminar.

Flow

2011-01-06T21:02:00.004+08:00

It's 4 days of the first working week of a brand new year.. a brand new decade. How has it been for you?

I spent the past few days going with flow... clients sessions, impromptu meetings, catching up with family and friends, reading, writing, quiet time.. pretty much the stuff I enjoy doing. :)

Of course, there were news or events that could cause one to be disappointed but the great news is that when we go with flow, we just continuously refocus our attention on goodness. For example, when a scheduled talk was cancelled, I completely understood and happily accepted the change of plans. Knowing and trusting that flow provides goodness always. I did not even feel a blip of disappointment that the old me would have felt. It's easy to describe this bliss but it's something that you will have to experience it for yourself to truly understand. And when you have experienced it, you will also know that it is possible to achieve. :)))))

Matchmaker by chance..

2011-01-05T19:33:00.004+08:00

In 2009, I was invited by SDU singles group to give a talk on "Attracting Your Ideal Partner"

Though the organiser shared that it would be a good platform for me to promote my QT workshop and sessions, I knew that this would not be the case. Yet, I knew that I had to accept the engagement though the reason was not clear to me then. I also followed my intuition to invite my friend S to attend the workshop with me by asking him to be my assistant.

A few months later, the reason for saying yes to the engagement was unveiled. S met A at the talk and were dating. Last November, my heart filled with joy as I witnessed their happy union.

Am glad I agreed to do the free talk and therefore, had the chance to be a matchmaker by chance. Hmmmm.... maybe not by chance. Chosen matchmaker. Lol.

Writing in a tree house

2011-01-04T20:53:00.002+08:00

Each time when I decide to sit down and write my second book... distraction filters in. So as of now, the new book has two pages written.

Been thinking about taking off to somewhere for a while and simply, write write write.. ok plus some chilling. :) My first book was started in Barcelona.

For my second book, this place that my friend shared with me looks like the perfect spot. Khao Sok Nature Resort. Imagine, living in a tree house in a rainforest! Nice!

Looking at my schedule for Jan, it looks like this trip will have to be made after my CNY trip. So I may have to start writing first while imagining I am there... :)))))))

Happy 2011!

2011-01-01T16:09:00.004+08:00

It's the first day of 2011.. and the day's been well spent so far. Ushered in a brand new year with good company, and with a great sense of well-being. Woke up early, meditated then went for a shiok massage. Heading to a dinner gathering later... now, some quiet time to think about my resolution and intentions for the upcoming year.

Resolution

My resolution for 2011 is to continue my joyous being journey of light and love.

Intentions

Hmmm... I used to set goals and yet in this past year, I have found myself setting intentions and then flowing with the unfolding of goodness. Bliss. So for 2011, these are my intentions.

For Dream Catalyst to reach out to even more people
For Fly Free to touch the lives of even more people and be a catalyst of hope for them
Publication of my second book
Being time with family and friends
Happy travels
To further enhance my abilities and enjoy learning/ being time with mentors and teachers
Further enhanced well-being

While writing this, felt a prompt to pick a card from Doreen Virtue's Daily Guidance from Your Angels Oracle Cards for the overall theme for 2011:

Go For It!
Your prayers and positive expectations have been heard and answered. We've been working with you on this situation since its genesis, and we continue to watch over you and everyone involved. Stay on your present path, as it will take you very far indeed.

What a lovely message!

Gratitude

2010-12-31T17:03:00.002+08:00

Each day, I give thanks for the many blessings. Starting and ending each day with gratitude opens our hearts to welcome the continuous flow of goodness.

Today, being the last day of 2010, here's my gratitude list:

I am thankful for the love and support of my family
I am thankful for the love and support of my friends
I am thankful for my clients' trust in me
I am thankful for the mentors and teachers who generously guide and teach me
I am thankful for all the teachings and insights gained
I am thankful for this joyous journey
I am thankful for the publication of my first book and the many angels who helped me with the book process
I am thankful for Dream Catalyst
I am thankful for life

Happy New Year!

Books on shelves

2010-12-05T21:06:00.004+08:00

Received an email today from friend Dancy who spotted (or rather her hubby) my book at Kinokuniya. So blessed to have joyous and loving family and friends!

Since it is my first book, naturally am excited to see it on the bookshelves. Though I believe I would be equally excited about my second, third, fourth.... It did take a while to manifest my book dream but most important is that it is a reality now! Am very grateful to all the angels who ease this book journey.

Saw a Popular store and popped in to see. Initially, could not find my book then presto! saw it nestled among the children story books. Guess the childlike drawing led to the mix-up. :) The staff was very helpful when I queried and immediately moved the books to the self-help section.

Fly Free!

2010-11-12T10:30:00.002+08:00

My first book "Fly Free: How Accepting the Wings of Life can Help You Reach Your Rainbow" is in! The books were delivered to me 4 days ago on Mon 8 November.

When I held the first copy of the printed book, I felt bliss, peace, joy, centredness and gratitude. It is the materialisation of a dream and as I have shared previously, writing the book and getting it to print form has been a journey on its own. I learnt alot about myself, gained insights about others as well as overcame fear.

I am also grateful for the many angels who made it possible - my family, my friends, my publisher and all the wonderful children of my friends who happily drew pictures for my book. I thank you all!

~~~

The past few days (and upcoming weeks) were spent meeting family and friends for lunch, tea or kopi. To catch up as well as deliver the books. Their warm smiles and encouragement added extra boost of sunshine to the sunny days.

For me, another enJOYable moment is the time that I spend "preparing for delivery". Here is where I will pen personalised messages for the recipents of the book (for those who have pre-ordered books). An opportunity for me to be still and let the message flow as intended. Here is where I feel that interconnectedness that we have with one another.

~~~

Having gone through the full process of writing and publishing a book, it now makes it a lot easier for me to write and publish subsequent ones.

I have started on my second book. It's not a sequel to Fly Free (though a good friend has already given me a title for my sequel *BIG GRIN*). Rather it is a book about applications of energy work in our daily lives. Looking forward to the journey once more!

Journey...

2010-10-29T18:55:00.002+08:00

Ever since my smses and emails went out re my book, it's been interesting observing the reactions or responses from the recipients.

For me, the intention that I set is for my books to find its right (needed) owner. As such, whether a person decides to order or not to order, I am equally happy and grateful. So the observations were more of an insight into a person's psyche.

Take for example, the response from one or two friends:

Tell me what your book is about then I will decide if I want to read it and buy it.

Then there's the response from acquaintances or in some cases, complete strangers (who received my email from their friends):

Congratulations!!/ So happy for you!!!.. could I place order for 1/ 2/5... with one stranger placing an order for 7 books.

Happy weekend everyone!

Going into print...

2010-10-25T21:09:00.002+08:00

My publisher called and said my book will go into print tomorrow. I knew that FLY FREE will be released soon. In fact, pre-orders for it have been streaming in (thank you thank you soon-to-be happy owners) since last week. Yet my heart went thump thump-thump thump at the news. Wow. Must be the happy anticipation of holding the very first printed copy of my first book.

Oh, I have received my very first invite to give a talk on Fly Free in Jan 2011. Wooooweeeeeeeee... Like my publisher said, the book has began to open doors even before it is born

Fly Free

2010-10-23T17:54:00.004+08:00

As long as we have life's breath, there is always hope...

If given a choice, most people would love pure sunshine moments. Yet it is the combination of rain and sunshine that allows the unfolding of magnificent rainbows. That's what Bernadette discovered as she sought to overcome the everyday storms in her life; from battling with low self-esteem, healing from failed marriage, recovering from financial difficulties.. common themes in our daily lives.

While facing her dark nights of the soul, Bernadette dreamt of flying free and reaching her rainbow. Along her journey of self-discovery and liberation, she learnt to accept the wings of life and also learnt much from fellow sojourners who have mastered their flight.

Fly Free is an anecdotal account of these experiences, shared unabashedly and candidly by Bernadette. With candour and warmth, the author writes of her healing journey and the insights gained as she changed and transformed her life to one that is abundant, happy and free.

This book and part of its proceeds are dedicated to The Safe Haven Project (www.safehavenproject.com)

+++

Butterflies in my tummy from the happy anticipation of holding the first printed copy of my first book..in about two weeks' time. Told my friend that I intend to take a commemorative picture of it. :)

Did a pre-order blitz and am grateful for the happy wishes as well as support. Also received an unexpected email inviting me to give a talk on my book in Jan.

Grateful.

Impending Birth...

2010-10-05T23:43:00.003+08:00

... of my first book. Today, my publisher asked for my details for the application for the ISBN number for my book. I also passed him my comments for the draft layout. Everything is coming into place.

A friend shared that when it is the right timing, everything will click and fall into place. It looks that way. From finding a nice publisher to a friend volunteering to take a new profile pic and yet another friend helping to do touch up for pic... smooth. Am very grateful and it is with joyful anticipation that I look forward to the birth date of Fly Free. Estimated end Oct or early Nov. Exciting!

2010-09-23T19:20:00.003+08:00

Brothers and sisters are as close as hands and feet

~ Vietnamese Proverb ~

Rainbow Halo around the Sun

2010-09-20T09:57:00.007+08:00

Yesterday, about noon, I glanced up at the sky and behold, saw my very first rainbow halo around the sun! My pics, taken with my phone, doesn't do it justice.

Naturally, I googled for info on it. One of the more interesting (to me *grin*) insight is:

"While meteorologists have a physical understanding of the circular rainbow around the sun, wisdom keepers of the Americas and Tibet have complementary spiritual understandings about this dramatic omen around the Sun which is known as the Whirling Rainbow or the Sunbow.

For some traditional native people, the Sunbow or Whirling Rainbow is considered to be a sign from Creator, marking a time of great change, or transition on the Earth. This full-circle rainbow around the Sun, some elders say, can be understood as a sign to people of the necessity to live a life in respect and harmony with all the creations that make life possible: plants, animals, waters, minerals, fires, winds, and other human beings."

Read this for the full article.

At the same time, I noticed these beautiful moving clouds that look like angels to me. Love rainbows and clouds. My aunt, who knows my love for clouds, shared this with me:

"Know you like clouds. Like to share this with you. "It is hard to find shapes in clouds if you are stressed and working too hard. Cloud watching helps you slow down your pace of life."

Indeed.

Happy Heart

2010-09-01T00:48:00.004+08:00

It's 12.53am and yesterday was a very long, busy and fulfilling day... taught QT to a couple, did sessions for clients with great results plus tidied up work for my website...

Ready for bed with a happy heart!

Flying Free

2010-08-24T10:22:00.006+08:00

The past few months have flown by... new happenings, new learnings, new unfoldings.

My First Book

Been wanting to publish a book for the longest time. Worked with different concepts and finally, in end 2008, started working on it. At that time, friends asked me if I had found a publisher. My answer was: "let me write it first, at a pace that flows. Then when the time is right, I know that a nice publisher will pop up.

A year plus on, and the draft is ready (Thanks Fi for your help!). In June, overcame my fear and connected with a publisher (contact given by my friend Kenneth). He's professional, possesses integrity and a compassionate heart. It was a very enjoyable coffee chat. I also learnt that they offer partnership publishing to aspiring authors whose scripts they accept.

I sent in my script and waited...

Received the :) news on 27 July that it's accepted! Writing and publishing a book is a materialising of a childhood dream and I was prepared to invest for self-publishing. Their offer of partnership publishing is a :) bonus! I will still be investing in my work yet gets to receive all the professional services typically offered by a publishing house.

We're right now in editing stage and targetting for the launch in Oct. And indeed, a nice publisher popped up when the time's right!

Dream Catalyst

In a blink of an eye, I have been on my own for 1 year and 10 months.

Last year on 11 Dec, I registered my company Dream Catalyst and it signals a new phase. My logo (designed by my talented sis) has rainbow and butterfly. Powerful symbols of transformation and growth, and I've always loved them. My desire is that through the work I do, I will be a catalyst of change for my clients and community.

Besides the nice publisher, have connected with a nice website designer as well. He's been ultra patient as we went through different designs till one finally felt right! So soon, I'll have my website!

Am grateful for all the blessings!

Yummy

2010-07-25T16:58:00.024+08:00

Being a cook

I love reading through recipies, cooking and thankfully, washing up as well. When I am eating alone, a one dish meal is easy to prepare and you can use the ingredients you have on hand.

A simple sweet potato soup. Comfort food for any day.

Koka has this new purple wheat noodle. Toss it with veg, a dash of sea salt and pepper plus a handful of basil leaves and it's a fast yummy lunch. Beautiful too!

Baby kailan, cherry tomatoes and fried mackerel (Ayam brand). I love the taste of basil leaves and so I tossed those in as well.

Cooking for a group is fun and you get to try out new recipies. My friends think I'm gung-ho cos' I will try a new recipie for a party. Why not? I enjoy the marketing and cooking process. The tasting is a bonus!

Beetroot and red apple salad. The fresh ginger gives it a refreshing twist. My friends found the salad unusual and tasty.

Mashed potato with enoki mushrooms wrapped in bacon.

Fragrant orange chicken. The chicken thighs are marinated for at least 6 hours and then baked. Juicy and delicious!

Enjoying food

For my grandma's recent birthday celebration, we went to Mellben Seafood (Ang Mo Kio). We had their signature claypot crab bee hoon and other dishes such as mongolian pork ribs, sweet potato leaves, steamed "chye poh" fish... verdict? The food is delicious. In fact, it's the first time that my grandma actually asked if we could bring her to the restaurant again! She loves it!

Bread, Love and Dream

2010-07-24T15:29:00.002+08:00

My parents enjoy watching the game shows and programmes at KBS World. Naturally, if I am watching the telly with them, I will watch KBS too.

The other evening, caught episode 5 of Bread, Love and Dream and I'm hooked! It did not matter that I've missed the earlier episodes. It was that addictive.

I believe its the triumphing-over-all-obstacles storyline that has me rooting for it. Thank goodness for HubStation, I can record the series and watched it when I'm free.

Loving Gesture!!

2010-07-22T19:48:00.003+08:00

From a distance, I witness the thoughtful gestures of kind soul.

The worker was busy with his cleaning duties. Then he noticed that an elderly lady was struggling up the stairs and so he offered a helping hand. What a loving and kind gesture!

The aunty offered a brilliant smile of thanks. It was nice to note this lovely appreciation for another's kindness. Many Singaporeans have forgotten the sweetness of gratitude.

I made an effort to walk across to compliment him and also to thank him for his thoughtfulness. He was very surprised!

Singapore Garden Festival

2010-07-21T12:28:00.043+08:00

Thought it'll be nice to spend some quality time with my parents and yesterday, we went to admire the beauty at the Singapore Garden Festival. My fave aunty Lilian was free and so we invited her to join us as well.

Bonding

Making time for a family outing is a conscious effort as co-ordination is needed to match everyone's schedule. "Everybody is too busy lah.." is an excuse. Period. Since I started my own company, Dream Catalyst, it meant I had flexibility of time. Spending time with my family became one of my priorities.

We started our outing with kopi and kaya toasts. Bellies filled, we then embarked on an enchanting journey at the festival.

Last year, my mummy decided that she wanted to return to the workforce after more than two decades of "retirement". She's enjoying her part time work as a crew at Universal Studios. My daddy's happily retired and now spends his free time exercising and just being.

On my mummy's off days, they'll enJOY couple time exploring Singapore or just chilling.

With the choices I've made plus my decisions to walk the path less travelled, I believe it has not been easy for them to be my parents. Yet they have unwaveringly given me their support, in spite of their worries, and allowed me to follow my dreams. I am grateful.

My aunty Lilian has been a consistent and loving support throughout my life.

I love me. That's the personal breakthrough I've made to bond with myself.

Bits and Pieces

I like this quiet spot within a garden, perfect for reading or daydreaming. Hmmm... shall make time to do so in the real world real soon. There are plenty of such spots dotted all over Singapore.

I love this magical garden

A house in midst of greenery... serenity and sanctuary...

Nice way of being isn't it?

Tea

We spent about two plus hours in the garden and continued the bonding time over tea. Our first stop was at Food Republic. Food was so-so and the tables were dirty and not cleared. :(

Next, we strolled over to Parco Marina Bay.

Walked one round and decided to visit Octa Hotel for coffee.

Today...

2010-07-09T19:30:00.003+08:00

...I received a reply that made me sad.

But it's ok.

Sadness melted away into greater understanding.

Awake, Aware

2010-06-30T23:31:00.003+08:00

It's 11.32pm and I'm wide awake. Rather than being awake in bed, it's quite cool to just flow with the night and enJOY. Initially, got the com up and running to write for my second book. Alas, the paragraphs werent linking well. So thought I'll just blog instead.

Wondered what I blogged about last year on the last day of June. Ahhh.. a beautiful pic of the eye of God. No words needed. Look. Reflect. Enjoy. Awe.

That's an awesome pic to hold in my mind as I wander into zzzland... and before that,

Thank YOU for everything.

Overcoming Fear

2010-06-29T12:31:00.002+08:00

Today, finally connected with a publisher to chat about my first book. Will be meeting him next week for coffee. In the meantime, have emailed him an extract of the book.

Realised that I still had traces of fear in me, that my book suck. With the realisation, then comes awareness to transform that useless energy into a positive flow. That fear arose out of ego. When I let it go and just enJOY the process, then once again, I return to a joyous flow.

Going with flow

2010-06-07T14:53:00.003+08:00

My second book was going to be co-written with my friend. Last week, she shared that she would like to opt out of book project to focus on her other commitments.

Go with flow.

Or rather, return to the orginating point. When the book was first conceptualised (following a suggestion by my friend Ada), it was a solo effort. So guess, it's back to where it is meant to be. :) :) :)

2010-05-24T14:17:00.002+08:00

Finally, creative juice flowing once more.

Three paragraphs written and it feels so good.

:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

2010-05-21T21:31:00.002+08:00

argggggggh... writer's block :(

chapters planned, ideas galore... just could not get started. tick tock tick tock, MAY is upon us, the days flew by and not a word written yet.

may this spell pass and flow becomes fluid once more.

To help or not to help

2010-05-21T14:56:00.002+08:00

For a very long time, I've always go with "help others". And often, I find myself stretching to cover the extra miles needed to help.

It took many repeated patterns before I realise that at times, my eagerness or obligatory desire to help isn't truly helping the other person. Rather it created dependency. It was not a lift so that the other person can fly and soar to freedom and independence. It chained the other party to fear.

Yes, it is a fine line yet this line is so very important to discern.

Sometimes by eagerly helping, we are not helping. Instead, expand the definition of help to one that allows the other party to grow and regain independence, and not become dependent on you.

2010-05-13T14:22:00.002+08:00

GRATITUDE
FOR
LIFE

Are you...

2010-04-25T09:32:00.002+08:00

A teacher from Primary School asks her students to write a essay about what they would like God to do for them...At the end of the day, while marking the essays, she read one that made her very emotional.

Her husband, who had just walked in, saw her crying and asked her:- 'What happened?'

She answered- 'Read this. It's one of my students essays.''Oh God, tonight I ask you something very special: Make me into a television. I want to take its place:Live like the TV in my house. Have my own special place, And have my family around ME. To be taken seriously when I talk.... I want to be the centre of attention and be heard without interruptions or questions. I want to receive the same special care that the TV receives when it is not working. Have the company of my dad when he arrives home from work, even when he is tired.And I want my mom to want me when she is sad and upset, instead of ignoring me... And... I want my brothers to fight to be with me... I want to feel that family just leaves everything aside, every now and then, just to spend some time with me. And last but not least make it that I can make them all happy and entertain them...Lord I don't ask you for much... I just want to live like every TV.'

At that moment the husband said:- 'My God, poor kid. What horrible parents!'The wife looked up at him and said:- 'That essay is written by our son!!!

Beauty

2010-04-17T09:08:00.004+08:00

It's about a short 7 to 10 mins walk from the bus stop to my place. When I am feeling exhausted, the walk can feel like a journey along the Great Wall of China. One afternoon, as I was walking the length of the Great Wall, I came across this beautiful sight. So I stopped and immersed in the beauty and felt refreshed. Hmmm... this might be the tip to walk the Great Wall (parts of it).

Book 2

2010-03-26T21:25:00.002+08:00

While waiting for my friends to finish editing my first book, I am starting a 2nd book. Will be co-writing it with Bingz, very exciting! we had a frutiful day today buzzing the chapters for the book. It flowed very joyously and the writing process begins!!

Honouring your true feelings

2010-03-20T20:09:00.002+08:00

If there's one thing to define March, it would be that it's a month where I truly honoured my true feelings even when its challenging.

Liberating. :)

(Black) Chicken Soup for my Soul

2010-03-16T18:02:00.003+08:00

Now that my daddy's happily retired, we have more opportunities to chat and bond. He's also now a man of leisure, able to go for walks by the reservoir as well as watch all the TV programmes that he wants. He's also turning out to be quite the cook!

I called him on my way home to ask if he or my mummy needed dinner. He said that he's cooked black chicken soup for me!!!

I may be 38 this year but in my daddy's (and mummy's) eyes, I will always be their little girl. And they always put my interests and well-being before theirs like the time when I wanted a Game & Watch.

Told my dad that it's a good thing that my dinner appointment's changed so I can taste the sweetness of love!!

Reconnecting

2010-02-25T15:26:00.003+08:00

I was hopeful about reconnecting with a secondary school friend M. After my initial facebook message, she wrote to me and yesterday, we had a reunion over tea.

It's been 20 years since we last saw each other and yet when we met yesterday, there was no awkwardness. Just the warmth that I remembered. Over tea, we both confessed to having amnesia as to what the misunderstanding was. We're just happy to have connect once more and there were lots to catch up on.

I am so very glad that I wrote to her!

Pretty in Pink 2

2010-02-18T21:16:00.002+08:00

It's Thursday and 95% of my pink roses are still pretty. My mum loves them too. What a wonderful way to breathe in beauty!

Pretty in Pink

2010-02-14T08:03:00.002+08:00

I received the bouquet on Thursday and they are still blooming prettily today.

Happy Abundant Lunar New Year and Happy Sweet Valentine's Day!

Heart flowers

2010-02-12T15:21:00.005+08:00

Lovely aren't they?

The giver QTed them before giving me the bouquet. I've also QTed them so that I can soak in their beauty for a longer time.

Declutter-sights

2010-02-09T22:30:00.003+08:00

Since my last post, I am still decluttering.

Yeah, it's taking longer than expected because I decided to venture into cupboards and boxes from my previous apartment. This time round, I kept my sentimental heart at bay. Each time I opened a box or started on a shelve, my mantra is: it's the past, let go and throw/ give away if not needed. That made it real easy and now my shelves are 80% lighter. Yup, that's bags of rubbish and past unloaded and dumped. :)))))))))

During the decluttering process, I came across a portfolio of my past achievements dating all the way back to my first job. These include articles highlighting successful fundraising projects, brochures I developed, newsletters and speeches I've written, interesting concept papers, even a newspaper article featuring an event I helped organised... I kept those faithfully in case I will need to refer to them for ideas as well as for a job portfolio.

Today, I flipped through it, appreciated my effort and creativity (I was surprised by some of my past ideas and writing!) and then threw it all away.

I no longer need those affirmations.
I know that I can creatively create anytime I needed to.

It feels good to.... hmm....yup, to start afresh.

Declutter

2010-02-03T08:33:00.005+08:00

I've awaken from hibernation and started to declutter my place. Pretty much in synch with this period of time where countless others are busy springcleaning to usher in a brand new lunar year.

The first task I took on was to declutter my wardrobe. Thanks to a great tip from my sis, my wardrobe is 60% lighter and leaner. Cool!

Today, I will be doing something non physical but equally important. Internal decluttering. Some negative emotions have surfaced in the past few days. Initially I was surprised by their appearance as I thought I had worked on them. Then I felt ashamed that I still felt them.

Then this morning, I realised that as always, I can reflect and release rather than to be overwhelmed by them. It is not useful to suppress nor beneficial to deny their existence. Feeling those emotions does not make me weak. But allowing them to trap me in the past weakens my forward stride. So rather than dwell on past behaviours, I can work on being kinder and more loving in my now and future actions.

HAPPY SPRINGCLEANING!

~~~

Tip to declutter wardrobe: Pile 1: select the clothes you like very much and will really wear very often in the next 6 months. Pile 2: for sure you won't wear. Pile 3: can't really make up your mind. After you separate into the piles, go for a break and then look into pile 3. If you decide someone else has a better use for it than you, then put them in Pile 2 to give away.

Happy Birthday Sis!

2010-02-02T13:00:00.002+08:00

Happy birthday sis!!

It's another year and may it bring with it, new opportunities, experiences and abundance of love, wealth, joy, fun, laughter and blessed moments!!

Return to basics

2010-01-25T18:51:00.003+08:00

I was chatting with my friend K when he reminded me that "we (humans) have little needs but many wants".

Ouch.

That's a gently pinch for me to remain awake on what's important in my path. Of course, the reminder is a call for all but I can only speak for myself recognising that we are all at different phases and life reality right now. No right, no wrong. Just a choice.

Hopeful

2010-01-25T18:43:00.002+08:00

When I was in Secondary school, I had a very good friend M. We spent many happy days of friendship till a misunderstanding ended it. I can't recall the exact details of it but I've often thought about her and wondered if we will have an opportunity to reconnect once more.

Today, in one of the rare moments when I logged into facebook and after clicking on some friends' invite, her profile popped up. She looks radiant and happy, the way I remembered her. Looking forward to reconnecting, if she's game.

Internal Bliss

2010-01-21T10:16:00.002+08:00

The world is in you.

Simple words yet rich in applications. For some of us, it may take a lifetime to achieve this or to even understand the truth of it.

I used to be affected by external factors be it people or situations. The consequence is a restless unhappy internal world. But when I decide to accept responsibility for my world, it became easier and easier to flow.

Bliss. Happy. Contentment. Peace. Centredness.

Those were states that I thought I could never achieve. But guess what? When things were at its darkest, that's when it's all possible to achieve them. For when things are at its darkest, humility occurs and we thus begin the journey inward to grow and transform.

Ready, Set, Almost to Go!!!!

2010-01-07T21:10:00.002+08:00

YES!! At 6.30pm today, the last of my QT workshop slides was translated to Chinese. It's been challenging but absolutely enJOYable! I have also learnt a lot from my teacher Ada and her hubby Albert.

My cousin's going to help me to key in the Chinese text and after that, I'll continue to work with Ada to familarise myself with the script for the workshop. When I am ready, will then conduct my very first workshop in Mandarin. Am looking forward to it!!

Realising 2010

2010-01-02T21:14:00.003+08:00

My last day of 2009 was spent doing a healing session for a client, setting my 2010 resolution, family time, preparing a dish for a BBQ and enjoying chill out time with friends.. pretty much the things I enjoy. While at the BBQ that night, I mentioned to a friend that how we decide to spend the last day of a year would pretty much set the tone for the brand new year.

~~~~

2010 Resolution
To amplify and magnify love and light through the daily interactions with the people around me, through the work I am engaged in and through my being.

2010 Goals

To further enhance my abilities
To spend more being time with my grandmas and parents
For Dream Catalyst to be fully operational by the first quarter
To equip at least 200 people with an energy tool to help themselves and others
To teach my first Mandarin Quantum-Touch workshop by the first quarter
To publish my book by the first quarter
To complete and pilot test a programme for kids/ adults by the first quarter
To set up a company with my friend and launch the programme by 3rd quarter
To travel to at least 3 countries for pleasure and to teach workshops as well as see private clients
To experience snow
To exercise at least 3 times a week
To learn a new skill

Welcoming 2010

2009-12-31T12:52:00.007+08:00

A whole year has flown by and looking at my blog posting for 31 Dec last year, most of the goals I've set out to fulfill for 2009 has been realised. This year has been an engaging, learning, overcoming, enriching, fun, varied, interesting and abundant one. I've had the pleasure of forging new friendships and making new connections. And the learning, being and enjoying will continue and increase in its magnitude as the upcoming years roll in. I know, trust and feel it!

My 2010 resolution is to amplify and magnify love and light through the daily interactions with the people around me, through the work I am engaged in and through my being. As for my goals, am reflecting on them. Will post when ready.

If 2009 has not been a swell year for you, decide right now to let it go. Instead of focusing and wasting your energy on how sucky it had been, might as well focus your attention and energy on the new year ahead. 5 mins focusing on negative is the same as 5 mins focusing on positive. The difference is the negative will hold you anchored to the past while the positive has an amplifying effect that can help to propel you forward.

And so, as this year ends and a brand new year dawns, may you experience joy, love, passion, laughter, fun and peace in all you do. May it be a time of new beginnings and the enjoyment of being. Happy new year!

A love-filled Christmas

2009-12-24T15:14:00.003+08:00

Hi there,

I am Dream Catalyst. My owner is B and her friends who bought me as a fundraising project to help the villagers around me.

It is Christmas eve and I would like to wish you a love-filled and abundant Christmas. For those of you who are "rejecting" this season of joy because of its commercialisation, go within your heart to find your own special meaning. For those of you caught in the swirls of merriment and celebrations, take time for self-reflection to kickstart your 2010 as light and love.

Today is also B's good friend Kenneth's birthday. Happy Birthday!

Oh, B also asked me to thank all of you; her family, friends, clients, blog readers, mentors and teachers for your love, concern and support.

Moo-rry Christmas everyone!

Dream Catalyst

2009-12-15T08:19:00.004+08:00

Like attract like. Goodness attract goodness. Abundance attract abundance. Love attracts love.

That's my mindset and philosophy for life. In the past, it remains an abstract concept in the mind with occasional application into daily life. With daily practice, a huge time spent in self-reflection and detoxification, it is a concept come to life for me.

When we accept responsibility that the world is in us and that we are responsible for the change we desire, it becomes a smoother almost magical transformational process. Of course, the initial acceptance of responsibility is never easy. Our ego, our fears, our past experiences, our perceptions, our sense of justice and fairness all come to play, jostling and justifying on why it is not our fault but his/ her/ their fault. So lets shift the blame blah blah blah. When we get past this swirl of stickiness, we move into a phase of liberation and freedom. We see ourselves for who we really are. That's why I always affirm my clients who see me for a Chakra Scan and Enhancement session that they are courageous for embarking on a journey of self-discovery and that for sure, change will occur.

The abundance of the universe is such that when we truly desire transformational change, signposts, guide and tools starts to flow into our lives. Whether we can "see" these largely depends on how open we are. For my journey, I was blessed to have the support of my friends and family, met many mentors and guides, tapped on resources such as Quantum-Touch, the emotional detox process by my good friend Marilyn as well as my good friend Kenneth's [Holistic+Strategic] Success Coaching plus I pampered my body with massages by my good friend Thean.

The people and the tools are catalysts of change. It is up to us to stay open to advice and insights as well as to happily utilise the tools/ resources available. There is always a solution or as a friend said, the solution for you at that given space and time.

In the same way that I have been helped, it has also been my purpose to be a catalyst of transformational change for others around me. At every stage of our lives, we can certainly be a signpost for someone else as well as to provide a helping hand. We help with what we know and with the resources that we have at that given point in time. Then as we acquire new tools and resources, we can extend the scope of what we can do to help someone else. All the while, remembering that we must also render help to "me". Balanced. The more centred and stable we are, the stronger a catalyst for others we become.

Dream Catalyst. Several years ago, I coined this term and adopted it as my purpose in life. I seek to be a catalyst of positive change for myself as well as for others. It's guided me in my self-journey of healing, strengthing and growth. It's guided me on the decisions I made to follow my path. It's my being.

Last Friday on 11 December, I registered Dream Catalyst as a company for the next stage of my journey. I've dropped Little Nudge because I feel more alignment with Dream Catalyst as a company name. Thank you Zen/ Valencis and Kenneth for the needed nudge to get this going! :) :) :)

One Year onwards

2009-12-01T18:13:00.002+08:00

This time last year, I started my new path to focus on Quantum-Touch full time. It was a period of abundancestorming as well as uncertainty.

One year on, I am very very glad I made the decision to quit my job in spite of the naysayers. A special thanks to my friends and family for supporting me. Your affirmations and encouragement provided warmth on rainy days. Xie Xie!

New opportunities have surfaced and I am looking forward to the new year ahead. I know that it'll continue to be one of learning, growth, enjoyment, abundance and being. :) :) :)

Speak Mandarin

2009-11-20T08:40:00.005+08:00

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the nationwide Speak Mandarin campaign. I am 7 years older than the campaign which means that I was in Primary 1 when the campaign first started.

In my primary school days, I breezed through the subject scoring an A for it in my PSLE, same as my English, Science and Maths. Equal footing. In fact, I even took part in

Then something shifted in secondary school and 2nd language soon became an alien language for me. I struggled with it and getting a C5 is considered very good. In fact, when I scored a B4 for 'O' levels in the first sitting, my teacher advised me to accept the grade and not to sit for it at the next try. I took her advice cos' I believed that it was the best I could do.

After that, I lost contact with Mandarin except for the occasional conversation with the uncles and aunties at the hawker centres or coffee shops. I forgot how to write the characters and could only speak very very basic words. When I started my training job, I received requests to train in Mandarin but could not accept the engagements. I did regret not paying closer attention to the language so that I am effectively bilingual.

Well, it's never too late isn't it? When there's an incentive to learn, there's greater motivation. When you have a fun and effective teacher/ coach, the lessons become interesting and engaging.

Yes, I've started Mandarin "classes" and they've been very enJOYable. My friend Ada generously offered her time to coach me to teach my Quantum-Touch workshop in Mandarin so that I can reach out to an even wider audience. So for the past weeks, I've been faithfully marking my attendance weekly at her crystal shop. It was challenging intially because it has been a long time since I have written any Chinese characters. When I write, I often felt I was drawing. But thanks to her patience and engaging teaching manner, I am enjoying myself and unlike in school, I do not find the lessons a chore. In fact, I will revise my notes whenever possible. How's that for being a conscientious student? :) :) :)

Am glad that there's revisions being made to how Mandaring classes are being taught in schools. That would be wonderful so that it no longer becomes a chore to learn. Yay!

Love for my family

2009-11-09T21:00:00.002+08:00

As much as I practice non attachment in that I know I can only do my best for my family, deep down, it is important that I can help my family to feel happier. Since I learnt Quantum-Touch in 2005, I've made it a point to distance my family members whenever possible. I was very happy when my parents attended my first workshop and learnt this useful tool.

This year, because I have greater flexibility of time, I decided to focus more time and effort to be with my family as well as to do energy sessions for them. My grandma has been in a depressed state while my parents were feeling a little stressed due to uncertainties in my dad's job.

And there's been a positive change and I am simply wallowing in joy! My grandma's back to her lively cheerful state and once again, she's happily volunteering her time instead of choosing to stay cooped up in the house. My dad's happily retired and both he and my mum are excitedly looking forward to their next phase of life. There's also been a shift in their mindset and attitude towards life. They are an affirmative example that one's always young enough to change and enJOY!!!

For myself, I am happy that I am able be a catalyst of change for my own family. It would indeed be non congruency for me if I am able to only help my clients and friends. As such, I am thankful that I am given this opportunity. I love you, my dear family!

Dream Catalyst

Roast Chicken

Each day...

Off to Scotland

Blessed and Abundant Lunar New Year!

Crowd. Peace.

Appreciating 2011, Loving 2012!

Wouldn't it be lovely?

Christmas celebrations

Merry Christmas!

Hola Madrid!

Bonnie Life

Night and Day

Elgin - watching nature goes by...

Elgin - good to be back

Home is where the heart is bliss

Let Go and Let God

Peace. Bliss. Home

Enjoying Madrid

Hola!

Rested and Recharged

As your quest is enlighten

A friend emailed me this simple blessing yesterday.

"May your days fill with love and sunshine, may your nights fill with peace and love."Thought it was lovely and posted it on my facebook to share the blessing with others. This morning, when I checked my FB, another friend had written a message to me.

May your smile be brightenAs your quest is enlightenStep by step with each universal embraceGlows brightly the love peace happiness and contentseen through the eye of your soul each day

Coffee and Tea

It's Friday...

Musing from the hammock

First day in Turin

Aha... so this is why...

Listen to your heart's voice

Unfolding of Goodness

Writing

Spain, Scotland and other adventure

Happy Birthday Singapore!

Conditioning

Hatch Day

Good Flow Day :)

Yoga!

I enjoy yoga classes and two years ago, when I took over my friend's membership at a affordable price at True Yoga, I was ecstatic. Two years passed and the result is that I hardly went for classes. The journey to and fro was truly a hassle.

I thoroughly enjoyed the session and will be practicing it daily to master today's poses. Come next week's session, she'll check and then teach me new ones.

It is worth the investment to have a one to one coaching and I strongly recommend Stoney, my instructor! :)

Pattaya and BKK

Going with flow

Holiday

Appreciation

Life & Purpose

You're invited!

Endings and Beginnings

My first radio talkshow! :)

You're Invited!

Mooooooooooo000

Pleasant Surprise

Good news...

Hmmm...

Dream Catalyst Centre

Magnifying :) energy...

Flow

Matchmaker by chance..

Writing in a tree house

Happy 2011!

Gratitude

Books on shelves

Fly Free!

Journey...

Going into print...

Fly Free

Impending Birth...

Rainbow Halo around the Sun

Happy Heart

Flying Free

Yummy

Bread, Love and Dream

Loving Gesture!!

Singapore Garden Festival

Today...

Awake, Aware

Overcoming Fear

Going with flow

To help or not to help

"May your days fill with love and sunshine, may your nights fill with peace and love."

Thought it was lovely and posted it on my facebook to share the blessing with others. This morning, when I checked my FB, another friend had written a message to me.

May your smile be brighten
As your quest is enlighten
Step by step with each universal embrace
Glows brightly the love peace happiness and content
seen through the eye of your soul each day