Porridge Buffet +Bowling (For Single Christians)

Time: To be revealed to participants ONLY!
Venue: Marina Square #02-138D (inside Center Stage)
Price: $12 per pax (Porridge Buffet) + $6 SuperBowl (including Rental shoes but not socks)
Age Group: 21 to 45 years old
Group Size: 10 to 20 people (even number of guys and ladies)

After eating Porridge Buffet there will be Bowling. You may either sign up for BOTH events or just one :) There will be abit of ice-breaking games. Please be sporting to play the games :)

http://eventx4u.blogspot.com
email to eventx4u@hotmail.com for registration

Power in your Hands Seminar for all Photography Lovers @ 16th May 2009 (Saturday) (For Single Christians Only)

Dear All,

There is an interesting Seminar for all Photography Lovers who like to pick up some photography tips.
To register:

Call 63597716 during office hours (Mon to Fri 10am to 6pm) or email to radiopromo@mediacorp.com.sg

Seminar Date: 16 May 2009, Saturday

Time: 2pm to 5pm (registration begins at 1.30pm)

Venue: Raffles City Convention Centre (Atrium Ballroom, Level 4)

Registration fee: $10 per pax

http://www.mediacorpradio.sg/power/

http://www.canon.com.sg/media/EN/pdf/event_contests/PowerInUrHandsStripAd.pdf

For Payment, please liaises directly with the organiser "Mediacorp".


>>>>@@>>>>>
I will be attending the seminar, hence for those who are interested and have already registered for the seminar;

I will be organising a Lunch gathering before the seminar at Raffles City -Time 12.00pm.

Please kindly let me know if you are joining us for the Lunch and the Seminar before 13th May 2009 (Wednesday).


Thanks and warmest regards,
Tricia Wong
Email: baomin@gmail.com

Movie and Single's Night (For Christians Only)

Event Description:
We will commence dinner at 7pm (Likely at a Turkish restaurant). Should the participants be interested to join for a movie (optional), We will be watching X-Men Origins: Wolverine at 4.30pm movie.


Closing date :1 May 2009
Event Date : 2 May 2009
Time : 4-10pm
Venue : Central and near mrt (will be reveal to confirmed participants)
GS : 30-60
Price: Free
Those watching movie: $11 (A full refund will be made if we are not able to purchase the ticket)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Registration Details :
A) For participants attending the dinner only, register yourself with the following inforamtion to gtky.admin@gmail.com: (1) Full Name in IC, (2) IC No., (3) Contact, (4) Gender, (5) Email, (6) Church atttending & (7) DOB.

B) For those attending the movie, please make payment of $11 by transfer to
a) Please make payment via electronic transfer to:
- UOB : 351-300-335-6 (Current)
- Bank Code : 7375
- Branch Code : 351 or

- POSB : 138-03080-6 (Saving)
- Bank Code : 7171
- Branch Code : 081

b) Then provide details as per requested in (A) to gtky.admin@gmail.com with the payment transfer code. We regret to inform that we will not accept orders for tickets on the actual day.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE :

1) As both of us are working and any liaison by phone or email can be very disruptive to our jobs, we regret that we are unable to respond to applicants that did not provide all the information as per registration requirement.

2) Should you not hear from us within 1 day, please check that you have listed your details as per requirement and after ensuring that all is complete, resend your registration to us.

3) All successful registration will receive a reply from us.

4) We'd appreciate that the event is treated as a mingling session for singles. This should not be taken as an outing with friends or for purely fellowship purpose.

5) We regret to inform that gate-crushers are not encouraged. There will be a fee of $15 (registration only) levied should there be participants that come without registering (even when the event is free for the rest, it is not free for gate-crasher).

6) Should your place be confirmed, please come, cause there is space limit and it likely means another will not be able to make it as you register first. We wish not to black-list anyone.

7) This invite is open to Christians outside the existing community, we hope all will exercise the highest degree of discipline and the best of virtue so examplified by our calling under grace.

8) Please keep this quiet, as the session organised for groups outside the community of grace is chargeble.

9) And yes, it will be fun, very fun! Exceedingly fun!


Thank you and Best Regards,
gtky

1 May KangXi Emperor Exhibition 7 - 9pm (For Single Christians Only)

Hi,

I plan to visit KangXi Emperor Exhibition 7 - 9pm on 1 May. If you are also keen, do join me. Drop an email directly to me. Thanks.

Best regards
karenlimwanchen@yahoo.com

Squash session at Burghley Squash and Tennis Centre (For Single Christian Only)

Hello

I am organising a game of squash on 29 April Wed from 8pm to 9pm at Burghley Squash and Tennis Centre. If interested can join me. Contact me at laueric70@yahoo.com for more info.

GBU,
Eric

DANCE AND SING TO JESUS

www.danceandsingtoJesus.com

Let us REJOICE in our Lord God Almighty and let the Holy Spirit REFRESH you as you dance and experience the power of God and His anointing.
Jeremiah 31:13 “Then shall the virgin rejoice in the dance, both young men and old together: for I will turn their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow …..”

April / May 2009
Ballroom, Latin, Social and Line Dance lessons at Channels of Blessings
$30 for 6 lessons (office hours) / $40 for 6 lessons (after office hours). Join anytime. Tel 63771593

Venue: Channels of Blessings Pte Ltd
Blk 78B Telok Blangah St 32 #03-05
Tel 63771593

Buses to Channels of Blessings, Telok Blangah St 32: 124 and
273 from Bukit Merah Interchange
Telok Blangah Road : 10, 30, 57, 61, 93, 97, 100, 143, 166, 176, 188, 963
Multi-storey carpark is at Blk 78A Telok Blangah St 32

Dance lessons on the following Praise songs will be held at the attic of FAITH METHODIST CHURCH (next to Commonwealth MRT) on
Tuesdays 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm @ $5.00 per session.
Tues April 28 & May 5 – Dance & Sing to “Emmanuel” (Latin Rumba), and Salsa to a Mandarin song “Lai Kou Shen Chang”.
Tues May 12 – Dance & Sing to song “Above All”

Singapore Flyer & Marina Barrage. (For Single Christian Only)

Dear all,

Justmeet is organizing an event with All Saints Home as part of a fund
raising exercise for them. All Saints Home is a Voluntary Welfare
Organization and provides residential nursing care in a Christian
environment for the elderly sick of all races and religions in the
community. Despite that, we manage to secure the package at a very
attractive price of $38.

The event is a package that will cover Singapore Flyer, Marina Reservoir
and an 8 course Chinese Dinner, inclusive of transport to these places.
Date: Sat 16 May 2009

For details please log on to justmeet.com.sg.
We have limited seats and so it will be on a first come first serve basis.
Because we need to book and pay in advance, we need you to register and
make payment in advance to reach us by 9 May 2009.

plse sign up now and make your cheque
payable to All Saints Home.
I have been asked if you will be asked to help out the elderly.
Answer is NO. This is strictly a Justmeet event and the elderly is not
involved. They will not be joining us. We are working with All Saints Home
for the event because they offer a very attractive package for the event
by making a special deal with Singapore Flyer and the restaurant.
This is also to raise fund for the All Saints HOme in a small way.
So, dont hesitate and join us for another fun filled event.

See you there!

Joseph Kwa
Justmeet.

ktv - partyworld 16 may (For Single Christians Only)

Date: 16 May 2009
Time: In the afternoon.. Will ONLY announce to participants.
Venue: Partyworld - Orchard International Building
#03-00 Beside Orchard Lido Cinema
Price: $20 (includes tibits, fruits and 1 drink only) pls bring ur own water if 1 drink is not enough~
Age Group: 21 - 40 years old
Max Group: 10 people (5 guys and 5 ladies)
[slot left with 4 guys & 3 ladies ONLY!!]

We will sing for 4 hours and have some ice-breaker games (3 small prizes to be won!). After singing, we will go HMV to eat dinner at Waraku (japanese restaurant) at your own expenses~

For more details, visit: http://eventx4u.blogspot.com and If interested, please submit your application here or any queries email to eventx4u@hotmail.com

Angela

Beulah BBQ & Moscato Gathering - 24/5 (For Single Christian Only)

Beulah BBQ & Moscato Gathering - 24/5 (For Single Christian Only)

Event : BBQ & Moscato Date : 24/5 (Sun)
Time : 6pm-9pm
Location : BBQ pit location at East Coast Park
Enjoy : BBQ, Fun, Free Flow of Moscato, Soft Drinks

Price:
- $22 (before end of April),
- $25 (before 15/5),
- $28 (after 16/5)

To RSVP : kokwah@beulah.sg or SMS 97771818
- "Beulah/Name/Church/Gender"
==============================================

Gentle stroll to Singapore Botanic Garden 25th April (For Single Christians Only)

Theme: Gentle stroll to Singapore Botanic Garden
Date: 25th April
Time: 4pm
Venue: TBA
Closing date: 24th April


------------------------------------------------------------------
A bit of sunlight, a bit of walking, with nature & you.
Join us for one of our healthy walk series this coming sat in April.

Kindly email me your name, hp no & church attending to warrior_little@hotmail.com

Singapore Botanic Garden is celebrating its 150 years. We will also visit the exhibition called "The Seed that Changed the World". Bring your camera along to snap snap. After that we will have our dinner together.

http://www.sbg.org.sg/

See you there (",)

The Chaperone @ Your Service and Happy Feet to Better Health

Need to send your kids to nursery/school but no one to help as you got to rush for appointment or to work unexpectedly?
Caught at work and nobody at home to help but need to bring your kin/s to see doctor?
Or, simply need a helping hand to stand in for just that unforeseen moment?
Whatever your situation maybe and as long as you feel the need and/or hope to have someone trustworthy to stand in at
that very moment, we ‘The Chaperone’ will be here to extend that service to meet your very need/s.

At Marcom Synthesis Services (MSS), it has dawned upon us that with numerous commitments and busy schedules that one has to fulfill these days, many of us have incidentally experienced being caught in one situation or another especially in a most unexpected/undesired and yet at the same time having still to fulfill their responsibility for their love ones at those very moments; you said, ‘Can’t be help or no other choices’. Sounds all too familiar?? If so, do consider ‘The Chaperone Service’ to serve and relieve you from those moments...

MSS has developed ‘The Chaperone Service’ especially for you to overcome those unanticipated scenarios and in the hope to stand in the gap, relieve your worries, and yet meet your needs to fulfill those responsibilities. Indeed, ‘The Chaperone Service’ is created with aim to facilitate you to carry out your rightful activities, work or appointment still without having to feel the burden/stress and yet giving you a peace of mind knowing well your love ones’ needs and wants are being met and fulfilled. • Details at www.marcomsynthesis.com (see under ‘Lifestyle Management’)

• Alleviate pain in your feet, ankles, knees and back
• Easy-flow gel massages your feet with every step - ultimate shoe comfort
• Ultra-velvet layer cools, cushions and pampers your feet
• Shock absorption helps reduce the impact and stress to your feet,knees and back
• Corns, calluses, bunions, blisters, heel spurs and arthritis – all helped with Happy Feet
• Anti-microbial treated to resist odor and mildew - ideal sport insole
• Versatile for dress, casual or athletic shoes - buy insoles that multitask
• Cost-effective because Happy Feet last up to 6 times longer than other brands, which break down after only a month - the best shoe insoles outlast your shoes
• Breathable fabric helps keep your feet dry
• 6 Months Guarantee!
• More details at www.marcomsynthesis.com (see under ‘FAITHMALL’)

To inquire or make an arrangement, please call Melissa Ng at +65 93872533 or email to inquiry@marcomsynthesis.com.

Alternatively, please log into www.marcomsynthesis.com for more information or fax this copy to 6234 0379 to simply make

Your booking/order by indicating your interest on the followings:

[ ] THE CHAPERONE SERVICE

[ ] HAPPY FEET Qty: _______ Size: _______________ (please refer sizes shown in website under ‘FAITHMALL)

CONTACT PERSON: ________________________________________ TEL/HP: ___________________________

DELIVERY ADDRESS: _____________________________________________________________________________________

Deconstructing Darwin tour to Singapore with Gary Bates

Hi all,

Please find attached some additional info on the series of talks beginning this weekend.

Note that there will actually be two speakers, Dr. David Catchpoole and Gary Bates (the key speaker).

You can read up on the background of the speakers at http://creation.com/about-us

Also note that the venue for this Saturday afternoon’s talk has changed.

No registration is required.

Just show up at whichever talk you fancy.

NAFA Chamber Music Festival (20 & 21 Apr)

Here's how to talk and appeal to guys

Do you think only outgoing, friendly women can impress men in a social setting?

Here's some food for thought: Even the most expressive woman can be a bad conversationalist and turn men off. Even the quietest woman can be a wonderful conversationalist and appear charming to men.

Engaging conversations are like good music. It doesn't overwhelm or bore you. It just makes you feel pleasant all over. You look forward to the next time you listen to that music...and each time you hear it, it's lovely, enjoyable and satisfying to your whole being.

Today's tip is about making your conversations with a man sound like music to his ears.

So, what's considered good music generally?

Think of a song you really enjoy. Does it come with deafening drumbeats or ear-splitting electric guitar solos? I venture to say that your answer is 'no'.

In fact, I dare say that the song you like has these qualities:

1) All instruments and voices are in complete harmony with each other. No out-of-place melody or strange silences in between.

2) Solo musical arrangements, if any, in the song is IN HARMONY with the rest of the song.

3) The song touches something deep inside your soul because you can relate to something in the lyrics or an emotion triggered by a particular instrument.

4) It soothes.

5) It uplifts.

6) More importantly, you can't feel the same way with another song.

7) Only that song calls out to you that way.

8) You look forward to the next time you hear it. You may even have the impulse to look for that CD.


So how do the above related to good conversations?

1) What comes out of your mouth should be in harmony with his. Let me illustrate: He asks you what type of movies you like. You should not only answer him, you should tell him why, then ask him back the same question and make him tell you why. That's harmonising with him. You are IN RHYTHM, not out of tune.

2) Any topic that dominates in the conversation is fine as long as it is in harmony with something previously brought up. Let's go back to the 'movie' topic. Where appropriate, share about one movie that was unforgettable to you. Tell him the storyline and what moved you. Let him know how you felt and reacted.

3) In your exchanges, something in your words or expression just trigger a CONNECTION in him. Emotionally, he can relate to you now.

4) He feels COMFORTABLE with you.

5) He feels ATTRACTED to you.

6) More importantly, he doesn't feel the SAME way with another woman.

7) That emotional connection was triggered by you and ONLY YOU.

8) Now, he LOOKS FORWARD to the next date with you. As a matter of fact, he can't wait to arrange for the next meet-up with you.

by Sylvher
About the contributor:
Sylvher personally went from someone who was emotionally empty, dateless and hopeless about finding the right man in the past into a "highly date-able" and happily-attached woman presently.

As a Dating and Relationship Advisor to women in Singapore, she has coached many women into successfully enjoying their dating lives and entering into fulfilling relationships. She conducts trainings and personal coaching sessions (upon special requests) specially for women.

Malacca 27th June 2009, Saturday (For Single Christians Only)

Hi all

I'll be organising a trip to Malacca for 26 persons, 13 gals and 13 guys on 27th June 2009. Seats are limited to those who had made payments first. All payments made non refundable, S$60 per person.

Assemble at One Fullerton opposite Fullerton Hotel at 6.15 am. The coach will leave at 6.30 am sharp. After checking in at the custom, we will proceed to have our breakfast (own expenses). We will visit Farmosa, Red House and the Antique Street. Lunch will be at nearby nonya restaurant. After lunch, we will be heading Mahkota Parade for shopping. Followed by dinner at a nearby restaurant before returning to Singapore.

Hurry limited seats only,

Kylie Yeo
kylieyeo@singnet.com.sg

Badminton on 22/4/2009 (For Single Christians Only)

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I am currently trying to organise badminton on weekdays ( Wednesdays or Thursdays ) for exercising purpose. Please send an email to kwanhuilin@yahoo.com.sg if you can come. Once you registered for the session please come rain or shine or find a replacement. Need to regulate the number of people so that everyone gets a good workout and yet don't have to pay too much ($3-$4). I'm afraid late comers have to pay the same, so please come on time if can.

Next week: 22/4/2009 Wednesday
Place: Always at Chong Pang CC ( ten mins from Yishun Mrt ) Bus:856,859,171,858,969
Time: Always from 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm.

Regards,

Irene Kwan
81827856

Kallang Roar: The Movie 17 Apr (For Single Christians Only)

In conjunction with the 22nd Singapore International Film Festival

Under the Banyan Tree: Open Air Cinema at the National Museum of Singapore

Movie: Kallang Roar
Venue:Stamford Garden (Open-air screening)
Date: FRI 17 APR 2009 8:00pm
Cost: Free
Venue: meet for dinner at park mall basement 7pm...

Dir: Cheng Ding An
2008 | Singapore | 88 min | 35mm | PG

A story of how football shaped a national identity.

Battling the onslaught of a life threatening stage of diabetics, an entire board of unsupportive officials ready to oust him, a record of twelve years of Malaysian football supremacy, Uncle Choo defiantly returns to Singapore football scene in 1977 for one last shot at restoring nationalistic pride. His undying love for the game and his role as a coach few will would ever understand. Armed with legendary players like Quah Kim Song, Rajagopal, Samad, Mat Noh, Dollah Kassim, uncle sets out an impossible journey to remind his fellow countrymen of what it meant to be a Singaporean.

For more details, film schedules, ratings and updates of 22nd Singapore International Film Festival, please visit www.filmfest.org.sg.

Please send an email to eventfsc@hotmail.com (ur name, contact no. Church attending) if you can come.

SFG coming fellowship dinnner

APRIL 25TH SATURDAY 6pm to 10pm
SINGLES FOCUS GROUP: IT'S YOUR LIFE! NITE
Saturday 6pm - 10pm
Dinner Fellowship, Worship Unto the Lord and Sharing ....
Table topics, Stresses, Loneliness, Waiting, Victory in Christ .... Come prepared to listen or/and share your life experiences and philosophy. Let us exhort one another and spur each other on in our Life's journey in Christ.... May the fragrance and sweet aroma of our Lord exhude from each of us ....
VENUE: ACS BARKER ROAD, SPORTS COMPLEX LEVEL 3. ALONG DUNEARN ROAD
Take a lift from the Carpark to Level 3
NEAREST MRT : NEWTON (ABOUT 10 to 15 min WALK), EXIT TO BUKIT TIMAH ROAD
ACROSS BALMORAL SHOPPING COMPLEX.
SBS: 66, 48, 66B, 170
TIBS: 67, 171, 700, 700A, 960
Free Parking for those driving.
Drop me seokai@singlesfocusgroup.org a line if you are coming. No collection of any fees required but a freewill donation of no less than $6 would be much appreciated to help us cover cost for place and dinner.

Channels of Blessings product

This is the best time to share Jesus Christ and the mighty act of our LIVING GOD. From now until 13 April, there is 30% discount on all Channels of Blessings product(visit http://www.matthew5sixteen.com/catalog/index.php to view).

For orders, please call 63771593.

'GOOD NEWS SINGAPORE' WITH WORLD RENOWNED EVANGELIST REINHERD BONNKE,

'GOOD NEWS SINGAPORE' WITH WORLD RENOWNED EVANGELIST REINHERD BONNKE,

10 - 12 APRIL 2009, 7.30PM AT SINGAPORE INDOOR STADIUM.

Website: http://www.goodnewssingapore.com/

Come celebrate Maundy Thursday with the Celebration Chorus

Hi all,

Here’s wishing all a blessed Holy Week. J

Holy Week starts with Palm Sunday (yesterday), continues through Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and ends with Holy Saturday (ie. the Holy Triduum). Easter or Resurrection Sunday marks a new beginning.

I would like to invite all observing this week to consider attending the following service of word and song which I believe you will find meaningful. (See invite below and attached.)

Tenebrae is Latin for “Darkness”. The repertoire for the service celebrated on the last three days of Holy Week. Below is a description of the contents of the service.

About Tenebrae: A Service of Darkness

By Hal H. Hopson.

Hopson's service of Tenebrae follows a tradition of the early church dating back to the eighth century,

and commemorates the final hours of Christ's life on earth as He prepared for and suffered death on the cross.

There will be two services, but I understand that the Maundy Thursday service will include Holy Communion (marking the night that this Holy Sacrament was instituted).

I look forward to having you participate in this service to commemorate the Ultimate Sacrifice of the Triune God and the Great and Unmerited Exchange for Fallen Man.

Have a blessed Holy Week,

Stephen Chen

Hp: 93853764

Badminton on weekdays at Chong Pang CC (For Single Christians only)

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I am trying to organise badminton on weekdays at Chong Pang CC for exercising purpose. There is one session tomorrow. Please sms your name to 81827856 if you are interested. Just in case there are too many people, I will keep your number in the loop and let you know of future games.

Date: 8th April (Wednesday)
Time: 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm.
2 courts at Chong Pang CC.
10 mins walk from Yishun Mrt or take bus 969, 858, 171, 856 and 859.

Take care and God bless,

Irene Kwan

Badminton at Republic Polytechnic this Sunday (12/Apr) 3-5pm (For Single Christian Only)

Meeting Place : Woodlands MRT control station
Meeting Time : 2.30pm sharp - so if you are late, pls find your own way there. Its about 20min walk from Woodlands MRT.
You may also take bus no. 169 from Woodlands bus terminal and its only one stop after the bus turn right and stops in front of RP.

Things to bring : racket + water + umbrella + bats + ping pong balls (Shower facilities are available)
Shuttle cocks will be provided at a minimal cost if any.

If you drive, pls consider picking some of us up at Woodlands MRT and give us a ride to Republic Polytechnic.

After the game, we will most likely proceed to Causeway Point Foodcourt for a early dinner.
Pls feel free to join. Its free n easy n no obligation pls.

If you are confirm coming, pls send a email directly to esther-limsb@hotmail.com (pls do not send to Franky) with yr name, church attending, HP number. Pls also let me know if you are driving.

We will close once we have gathered enough people for the game. Once you have signed up, I will appreciate your attendance rain or shine. Your co-operation is much appreciated inorder for us to plan for future games. Have a great week ahead !

East Coast Park Meet Up

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Let us have a day of Fun and Fellowship at East Coast Park.

Date: Saturday 11 April 2009
Meeting Time: 3:30pm
Venue : East Coast Park McDonald's

Activities:
4pm - 6pm : Cycling, Picnic (Potluck), Board Games.
7pm - Proceed for dinner

Registration: Please Email your Name, Email Address, Gender, Current Church Attending and Contact Number to: Louis (espn_sp@hotmail.com)

This event is organise by SFG.

Why I choose to remain single

My father became prime minister in 1959, when I was just four years old. Inevitably, most people know me as Lee Kuan Yew’s daughter.

My every move, every word, is scrutinised and sometimes subject to criticism. One friend said I lived in a glass house. After my father’s recent comment on my lack of culinary skills, another observed: “You live in a house without any walls.” Fortunately, I am not easily embarrassed.

As long as my conscience is clear, what other people say of me does not bother me. Indeed, I am open about my life since the more I try to conceal from the public, the wilder the speculation becomes.

My father said of my mother two weeks ago: “My wife was...not a traditional wife. She was educated, a professional woman... We had Ah Mahs, reliable, professional, dependable. (My wife) came back every lunchtime to have lunch with the children.”

Actually, my mother was a traditional wife and mother. She was not traditional only in one respect: She was also a professional woman and, for many years, the family’s main breadwinner.

One of my mother’s proudest possessions is a gold pendant that my father commissioned for her.

He had a calligrapher engrave on the pendant the following characters: “xian qi liang mu” and “nei xian wai de”. The first four characters mean virtuous wife and caring mother.

The second four mean wise in looking after the family, virtuous in behaviour towards the outside world.

My mother lived her life around my father and, while we were young, around her children. I remember my mother protesting gently once about something my father had asked her to do. “It is a partnership, dear,” my father urged.

“But it is not an equal partnership,” my mother replied. The partnership may not have been exactly equal at particular points in time. But over the years, especially after my mother’s health deteriorated after she suffered a stroke, my father was the one who took care of her.

She clearly indicated she preferred my father’s care to that of the doctors’, in itself a revelation of the quality of his care.

He remembers her complicated regime of medications. Because she cannot see on the left side of her visual field, he sits on her left during meals. He prompts her to eat the food on the left side of her plate and picks up whatever food her left hand drops on the table.

I have always admired my father for his dedication to Singapore, his determination to do what is right, his courage in standing up to foreigners who try to tell us how to run our country.

But my father was also the eldest son in a typical Peranakan family. He cannot even crack a soft-boiled egg – such things not being expected of men, especially eldest sons, in Peranakan families.

But when my mother’s health deteriorated, he readily adjusted his lifestyle to accommodate her, took care of her medications and lived his life around her. I knew how much effort it took him to do all this, and I was surprised that he was able to make the effort.

If my parents have such a loving relationship, why then did I decide to remain single? Firstly, my mother set the bar too high for me.

I could not envisage being the kind of wife and mother she had been. Secondly, I am temperamentally similar to my father.

Indeed, he once said to me: “You have all my traits – but to such an exaggerated degree that they become a disadvantage in you.”

When my father made that pendant for my mother, he also commissioned one for me. But the words he chose for me were very different from those he chose for my mother.

On one side of my pendant was engraved “yang jing xu rui”, which means to conserve energy and build up strength. On the other side was engraved “chu lei ba cui”, which means to stand out and excel.

The latter was added just for completion. His main message was in the first phrase, telling me, in effect, not to be so intense about so many things in life.

I knew I could not live my life around a husband; nor would I want a husband to live his life around me. Of course, there are any number of variations in marital relationships between those extremes.

But there is always a need for spouses to change their behaviour or habits to suit each other. I have always been set in my ways and did not fancy changing my behaviour or lifestyle.

I had my first date when I was 21 years old. He was a doctor in the hospital ward I was posted to. We went out to a dinner party. I noted that the other guests were all rich socialites .

I dropped him like a hot potato. In 2005 , while on an African safari with a small group of friends, one of them, Professor C. N. Lee, listed the men who had tried to woo me. There were three besides the first.

Two were converted into friends and another, like the first, was dropped. I am now 54 years old and happily single. In addition to my nuclear family, I have a close circle of friends.

Most of my friends are men. But my reputation is such that their female partners would never consider me a threat. More than 10 years ago, when there was still a slim chance I might have got married, my father told me: “Your mother and I could be selfish and feel happy that you remain single and can look after us in our old age. But you will be lonely.”

I was not convinced. Better one person feeling lonely than two people miserable because they cannot adapt to each other, I figured. I do not regret my choice.

But I want to end with a warning to young men and women: What works for me may not work for others. Many years ago, a young single woman asked me about training in neurology in a top US hospital. I advised her to “grab the opportunity”.

She did and stayed away for eight years. She returned to Singapore in her late 30s and now worries that she may have missed her chance to get married. Fertility in women drops dramatically with age, and older mothers run the risk of having offspring with congenital abnormalities.

Recent studies show also that advanced paternal age is associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring, such as autism and schizophrenia, not to mention dyslexia and a subtle reduction in intelligence.

Men can also suffer from diminished fertility with age although there is wide individual variation.

I would advise young men and women not to delay getting married and having children. I say this not to be politically correct.

I say it in all sincerity because I have enjoyed a happy family life as a daughter and a sister, and I see both my brothers enjoying their own families.

The writer is director of the National Neuroscience Institute.

This article was first published in The Straits Times.
by Lee Wei Ling

Hiking on the 11th April Saturday. Macritchie to Bukit Timah

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

The itch to walk is here again. For those of you who don't mind waking early and breathing in some fresh air please join me for this hike. Would want to keep the group small and also to complete the walk within three hours if possible. Please email to kwanhuilin@yahoo.com.sg with name, hp number and church attending (must) if joining. Thank you :)

Cheers,

Irene Kwan

Wear comfortable shoes with grip, preferably track shoes.
Bring not less than 500 ml of water.
Bring some light snacks (bread, apple, biscuits etc.) just in case of low blood sugar during hiking
foldable umbrella in-case of rain
insect repellent or medicated oil
camera (personal preference)
cap (personal preference)
sunblock (personal preference)
ezlink card

For those who drive, you need to take a bus back to Venus drive to collect your car after the walk.

Date: 11th April Saturday
Time: meet 8 am sharp at Venus Drive carpark
Walk: from Venus drive to bukit timah.
Duration: about 4 hours of slow walk, some slight climbing needed so wear track shoes with grip.
If we start on time, we will end at 12 p.m. at Bukit Timah for lunch.

Directions:
Please alight directly outside Flame Tree Park Condo.
Bus stop 1, opp Flame Tree Park (second stop after Thomson Plaza) : 132, 163, 165, 166, 167, 855, 980.
Bus stop 2: Flame Tree Park (Second stop after Peirce Secondary School) : 132, 163, 165, 166, 167, 855, 980.
Walk less than 5 mins to reach the carpark. Follow the black line on the map.

Driving: Find your directions using this http://gothere.sg/. Enter your location followed by destination "Flame Tree Park". Do not go to the main entrance.

Lunch: Bukit Timah Road (roti prata, Chinese food available at the next shop)

Rain or shine we will be there. In the event the weather is unsuitable for hiking, we will adjourn to Thomson Plaza for breakfast and fellowship together.

My hp : 81827856

God bless,

Irene Kwan

Taboo Love Affairs (For Christians bachelors & bachelorettes)

Venue: Love The World Soul Rock, Singapore Flyer, #02-05, 30 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039803 (Near Cityhall MRT. Bus: 106, 111 and 133)
Date/Time: 16 May (Sat) 3.30pm – 5.30pm.
Price: S$ 25.

Love The World Soul Rock is a lively and friendly contemporary Christian pub. Let's gather for a refreshing afternoon of spontaneous laughter and interactivity. Play an exciting boradgame call Taboo and mingle with your newfound friends of same faith. Price includes snacks, desserts and a drink (coffee/tea/soft drinks).

To register, email your name, gender, IC, handphone to register@wow-her.com.sg entitled "taboo for christians". Tel: 9795 0568.

Special yunnan trips 2009

I am a mission consultant working many years in China, Thailand and Myanmar. I have helped over the years many traditional church mission projects (and still doing), also working with NGOs relating the issues of society and lately or rather around the last 5 years, develops business or marketplace platforms for mission projects to work on generating income for local opportunities and workers.

Currently, I am looking to partner with, and work with anyone who is ready to teach professional skills and bring business opportunities to empower local believers on the mission fields but using commercial platforms. Say for example, China...

Do you have a mission heart for China? Do you want to work with God and do something for sustainable missions in China?

Do you see business opportunity as a platform to missions in China?

If you or anyone who has a heart and mind for China and missions, then come join us on a trip to Yunnan China and work with God in Southwest China. We are in need of heaps of varied skilled professionals, business owners and interns who has the mind and heart and even products to come here as mission partners and investors to train and develop the market here.
We are looking at business/commercial platforms in all areas;

1. Counseling and Family Life Enrichment
2. Agricultural Olives and Organic Farming
3. Publishing and Printing of Books
4. Seminars and Events Organizing
5. English Learning Institutions
6. Crafts Productions and Retailing, even opening a local retail Christian bookstore
7. Early Childhood Centre
8. Lodging, Cafes and Restaurants
9. Organizing trips to Yunnan, South West China, we have regular trips for all your friends and members.

Such platform will surely bring work, income and upgrading of skills to lots of local believers whether in the farms or city, not to mention, it will also help foreign Christians to come and explore your future, and see how your skills and products can help to generate income with the local opportunities.

Pastor Feztus Lim
missionworksintl@hotmail.com
Your Asian Partner And Passage To Working With the People Of God In China, Myanmar and Thailand
http://missionworksintl.tripod.com/
Mobile : +65-91898980

Western Lunch Fellowship & Balloon Sculpting (For Single Christians only)

Come and enjoy one of the best value-for-money meals in Singapore !

Besides enjoying your food, you can also learn from a Balloon Sculptor how to make basic balloon shapes e.g dog, sword, and flower ! Please bring a Big bag so u can take home the balloons !

You are free to sit where you feel comfortable and get to know one another.

Date : 18 April 09 (Saturday)

Time : 12 pm- 2 pm

Venue : Barnsburry Restaurant Cafe, Upper Thomson Rd, after MacRitchie "Long House" and Thomson CC. Buses : 165, 166, 410, 980, 162, 855. Nearest MRT : Bishan MRT station.

Cost : $27/pax (inclusive of 1 set meal, professional fee & balloon materials). Add-ons : please pay on your own.

Max no. : 30

Contact person : Sherlene (hp 81139098) sher_wan05@yahoo.com.sg

Payment: Registration confirmed only upon payment.
Registration Details: Name/ Mobile/ Email/Church


Closing date : 13 April 2009 (Mon). Sorry, late registration on that day won't be accepted,

thank you

Best regards

Sherlene sher_wan05@yahoo.com.sg

WELLConnect at Harris Batam (For FCBC Members Only)

Anchor Event of 2009 (3 days 2 nights)!

Criteria:
1. Single & Unattached
2. Age from 25 to 42
3. Attending FCBC cell

Program Outline:
1. Outdoor team-bonding games
2. Biblical teachings on singlehood and relationship
3. Dinner by the beach
4. Other great beach and indoor activities

Registration opens on 12 April (Sun) at Info Counter
Seats are limited!!

Cost - $260