MASTERWORDSMITH@WRITERS.INC.: THE ABC OF FRIENDSHIP

MASTERWORDSMITH@WRITERS.INC.: THE ABC OF FRIENDSHIP

Anniversary Pledge

My dearest wife
Two decades Plus eight today
I loved you then, I certainly still do now
Another 28 or more?
But atlas I fear this body might not obey
I will appreciate every moment now
Happy 28th Anniversary Today
to be together is blest
But to be with Him even far better
Let's make a pledge this day
When the roll is called yonder
Let's be there!

THE RACE I MISSED

Got up this morning, rather excited and headed for the stadium. it's gonna be my maiden run.I was looking forward to this the whole week. I was on my way almost near to my destination, I saw a lone runner with the t-shirt, the same one I was wearing. Horrors of horrors, it then dawn upon me, I might have been late.No, no, I refused to believe that. Going towards the stadium there were marshalls, policemen every where. The truth sets in. I was indeed late!
What is the moral of this story.? you might have registered,paid your dues and have all the necessary outfit,and even be ready, but unless you are in the race. It don't count. you have to run together with every one. Lesson learnt be on time.and be ready! I might missed this race, but I sure don't want to miss the race Paul is taking about.
see more on the articles here.

Gotta run now, I dont want to be late for church.

MASTERWORDSMITH@WRITERS.INC.: HOW TO RETIRE

MASTERWORDSMITH@WRITERS.INC.: HOW TO RETIRE

FLOWERS OR NO FLOWERS LEH?

Last night at our "Tong Yen" session with some friends, the topic of sending flowers to spouse cropped up. One newly wedded was wondering why her spouse dont (or lack of it) send her flowers anymore. our learned and experience friend Jason ,while he is not against giving gifts to spouse, suggested we should be more practical ; when buying gifts the receivers should be able to use them. He is opioned flowers are a wasted of money, as they are only good to look at for a while since they withered off after a couple of days. He even suggested to my friend, "plant your own flowers if you like them so much." sometimes I am not sure when he is serious.But what my friend shared does makes sense.
What do you think?? Should we do away giving flowers? Anyone who wishes to differs??
Ladies is it a must to have your flowers??

Klang Folks Jogging at Taman Rakyat Beware..

I was at Taman Rakyat this evening. Just to test run to see if I should attempt my maiden run in oct. Little do I know what was in store for me when i returned to my car. I noticed there were bricks underneath my car.A quick check confirm all tyres were intact, except for one tyre which was flat.Apparently it was deflated for easy removal.
They must have left in frustration as they could not removed one of the nuts. In desperation they threw four of the nuts away. Do you believe in Angels? Guardian Angels that is. Well I do. Thank God they were not sucessful in their mischief. They could have seen an Angel and took off in a hurry. Would you believe it of all the day, I choose today not to carry my hand phone, and I could not remember my wife's phone. so I did the next best thing I called my own phone and guess what my wife did not recognise the ring tone and did not pick up. She thought it was the computer! what?? She can't even tell?? never mind.. Thank God just as I hang up the public phone one of my ex college drove by and I waved him down. Got a lift back to my home and I tried to call one of cell member who happen to run a tyre shop.(this is one of the fringe benefit of joining a cell)Horrors of horrors his number went missing .I could not find it on my contact list. Good thing I remembered a couple days ago I had sent my wife's car for some check up and had his bill. But just my luck my wife threw that bill away. good thing it was still in the waste basket.Phews and I quickly called him. A quick change to the spare tyre and I was my way to his shop to have the original wheel back in place.
One car nearby was not so lucky as one of the wheel got stolen as reported by my son whom my called earlier to have him watch over my car in case there are others thieves. The owner did not reliase his back tyre was missing and almost drove off, but my son manage to warned him in a nick of time.
So klang folks be more alert when you next go for jogging at taman rakyat. Your tyres might not be there.
Happy Merdeka day.God Bless Malaysia(and Klang too)

Enjoyed this song

MY PRAYER- Jlim

OH LORD, MY MAKER
YOU KNOW WHAT GOES THROUGH MY MIND
MY FEARS, MY ANXIETY
I CAN’T HIDE FROM YOU
MANY THINGS I HAVE NO ANSWERS NOW
MY DISAPPOINTMENTS WHO CAN UNDERSTAND BUT YOU?
MY TRUST IN FRIENDS, LOVED ONES EVEN
GIVES ME NO COMFORT
ONLY YOU ALONE
I FIND MY TRUST AND COMFORT

FRIENDS MAY DESERT ME
LOVE ONES ABANDON ME
BUT LORD DON’T YOU HIDE YOUR FACE FROM ME
LORD I FEAR IN MY WEAKNESS
I MIGHT STUMBLE AND FALL
LORD HOLD ME AND STRENGTHEN ME PLEASE
LEST I FALL AND FORSAKE YOU
HELP ME TO PRESSED ON
TILL IT’S TIME FOR YOU TO CARRY ME HOME.

A cheerful heart is good medicine,

Was at my mum's place this morning, when I had an upset tummy. Mum being mum always have the redemy at hand. I was given a type of "po chi pill" brand called Ban kah chai.
I was surprise to find a bookmark in the box with these words. "cheerful heart is good medicine" This of course is from proverbs 17:22 A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones . wonder if this guy have been reading proverbs. Guess what the medicine really works,just like the old brand I was so used to. Need to get some when going for mission ,especially those who has a weak stomach like me.

WHAT'S FOR LUNCH DEAR?

My wife suddenly got inspired to cook crabs for lunch today. I help too(honest) :-to eat up plus wash up!
Ok maybe the wash up part is no effort on my part, but the eating part certain does, since I dont really fancy crabs.!so it takes really some effort to swallow those stuff down with no argument. Further more that was the only menu, no rice, no vegetables. just crabs and more crabs. After being married to the same woman for so many years I know when your woman spent so much time in the kitchen preparing the meal(delicious or otherwise) you dont suddenly "remember" you have a lunch date or you are fasting . Do that you will be "fasting" for a long time.As for me,
I think I had enough crabs to last me for a long time .

LEARNING TO TRUST GOD(AGAIN)

Proverbs 3:5-6
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

This happen to be one of the favourite verse of one of a brother who was called home recently. It was no coincident this verse was also the opening verse of the guest Speaker,Pastor David Goh at our Church last sunday.
For the past couple of months I have been counting the days towards oct when I will retired. It will means no income. who will put the food on the table? It's one thing to encourage people when they are in a situation,but when it involved us personally, it's something else.I will be lying if I say I am not worry. In fact I worried too much, when I know I shouldnt. yes, I have spoken to some pastors ,cell members who prayed with me on this issue and I have even remind myself there is nothing to worry about and even know and read the scriptures how God takes care of the sparrows.
Matthew 10: 29-31
29Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. 30And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

After hearing last sunday's message I guess I better learn to trust completly(no matter how hard it is). I dont remember most of the verses, but only the opening and the closing verses. The last verse was from Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus
I dont know what is going happen in Oct, but I am not going worry myself sick thinking about it,because I know God is in control. Once I commit everything to Him, it is His problem not mine .

now this song will have more meaning than ever!


I don't know
About tomorrow
I just live from day to day
And I don't borrow from its sunshine
For its skies may turn to gray
And I don't worry about my future
For I know what Jesus said
And today He walks beside me
For He knows what lies ahead
Many things about tomorrow
I don't seem to under-understand
But I, I know, I know, I know who holds tomorrow
And I know who holds, who holds my hand
Oh yeah, yeah, yes, hey, yes
Who holds my hand


Shalom

TRUE FRIENDSHIP

Seems like this question will always pop up. Who or what is a Friend? We will in some point of our life ask this question. I always tell people good friends are not many and true friend even less, but when you do find one value it.
Here is some interesting articles which I like to share.

Friendship is a gift of God. Some of us are blessed with good friends. But as it happens, these friendships are taken for granted in some cases and not valued. It is similar to a case of two couples. Say one has no child even after many years of marriage and the other has many children, more than they can manage. What do you think? Will the couple with many children value the children as much as the couple which has none? Everything is relative in life. We value what we don't have and give less valuable to what is freely available with us. Friendship is one such relationship.Why should we value friendships? What qualities does a good friend bring in our relationship that makes the friendship so valuable? Let us examine some of these. read the rest of the story here

In ancient Greece, Socrates was reputed to hold knowledge in high esteem. One day one fellow met the great philosopher and said, "Do you know what I just heard about your friend?". "Hold on a minute," Socrates replied. "Before telling me anything I'd like you to pass a little test. It's called the Triple Filter Test.". "Triple filter?". "That's right," Socrates continued. "Before you talk to me about my friend, it might be a good idea to take a moment and filter what you're going to say. That's why I call it the triple filter test. The first filter is Truth. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true?" "No," the man said, "actually I just heard about it and...". "All right," said Socrates. "So you don't know if it's true or not. Now let's try the second filter, the filter of Goodness. Is what you are about to tell me about my friend something good?" . "No, on the contrary...". "So," Socrates continued, "you want to tell me something bad about him, but you're not certain it's true. You may still pass the test though, because there's one filter left: the filter of Usefulness. Is what you want to tell me about my friend going to be useful to me?" "No, not really." "Well," concluded Socrates, "if what you want to tell me is neither true nor good nor even useful, why tell it to me at all?"

Lesson:
Well we can always participate in loose talks to curb our boredom. But when it comes to you friends its not worth it. Always avoid talking behind the back about your near and dear friends.

original post here


The Bible also has alot to says about friendship.
Proverbs is another good source of wisdom regarding friends. "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity" (Proverbs 17:17). "A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother" (Proverbs 18:24). The issue here is that in order have a friend, one must be a friend. "Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses" (Proverbs 27:6). " As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another" (Proverbs 27:17).


Refer here

LIFEBOOK 2009

Another interesting article which I receive in my email. Thanks Nixon for the below.










LIFEBOOK 2009
Health:

1. Drink plenty of water
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants, and eat less food that is manufactured in plants
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy
5. Make time for prayer,
6.. Play more games
7. Read more books than you did in 2008
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day
9. Sleep for 7 hours
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk every day ---- and while you walk, smile


Personality:

11. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
13. Don't over do ; keep your limits
14. Don't take yourself so seriously ; no one else does
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip
16. Dream more while you are awake
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with his/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you
22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

Community:

25. Call your family often
26. Each day give something good to others
27. Forgive everyone for everything
28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day
30. What other people think of you is none of your business
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your family and friend! s will. Stay in touch.

Life:

32. Do the right things
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful
34. GOD heals everything
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change
36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up
37. The best is yet to come
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it
39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy



I like points no. 5, life is fragile, handle with prayer.
8( my preference meditation on God's word)
11- remember this one? I had the blues because I had no shoes,
Until upon the street, I met a man who had no feet"~Harold Abbott
also refer here

18 is a good reminder for those married couples and those in a relationship.
25- is so very important. value our family and see them or call them at oportunity you can. Dont live in regret .
Point 33 and I would like to add from Phil 4:8
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

Have a nice day.

AN ATHEIST IN THE WOODS

This is another that email that make it's round again. Enjoy.


AN ATHEIST IN THE WOODS
An atheist was walking through the woods.

'What majestic trees!
'What powerful rivers!
'What beautiful animals!
He said to himself.

As he was walking alongside the river,he heard a rustling in the bushes behind him. He turned to look. He saw a
7-foot grizzly bear charge towards him. He ran as fast as he could up the path. He looked over his shoulder & saw that the
bear was closing in on him.

He looked over his shoulder again, & the bear was even closer. He tripped & fell on the ground. He rolled over to pick
himself up but saw that the bear was right on top of him, reaching for him with his left paw & raising his right paw to strike him.
At that instant the Atheist cried out, 'Oh my God!'

Time Stopped.
The bear froze.
The forest was silent.

As a bright light shone upon the man, a voice came out of the sky.

'You deny my existence for all these years, teach others I don't exist and even credit creation to cosmic accident.'
'Do you expect me to help you out of this predicament?

Am I to count you as a believer?

The atheist looked directly into the light, 'It would be hypocritical of me to suddenly ask you to treat me as a Christian now,
but perhaps you could make the BEAR a Christian'?

'Very well,' said the voice.
The light went out. The sounds of the forest resumed. And the bear dropped his right paw, brought both paws
together, bowed his head & spoke:





'Lord bless this food, which I am about to receive from thy bounty
through Christ our Lord, Amen.'

DEATH : need not be scary if you know your maker

Got this in my email this morning. It is too good I have to share.

~.. DEATH~
WHAT A WONDERFUL WAY TO EXPLAIN IT

A sick man turned to his doctor as he was preparing to
leave the examination room and said,
"Doctor, I am afraid to die.
Tell me what lies on the other side."
Very quietly, the doctor said, "I don't know."
"You don't know? You, a Christian man,
do not know what is on the other side?"

The doctor was holding the handle of the door;
on the other side came a sound of scratching and whining,
and as he opened the door, a dog sprang into the room
and leaped on him with an eager show of gladness.
Turning to the patient, the doctor said,
"Did you notice my dog?
He's never been in this room before.
He didn't know what was inside.
He knew nothing except that his master was here,
and when the door opened, he sprang in without fear.
I know little of what is on the other side of death,
but I do know one thing...

I know my Master is there and that is enough."

Secret Ab Toning Exercises For a Flat Tummy and Slim Waistline, Exercise and Workout

Secret Ab Toning Exercises For a Flat Tummy and Slim Waistline, Exercise and Workout

Shared via AddThis

conquering my hill

I was all game when a friend of mine invited me during the weekend to climb the
Saga hill in cheras, little did I know what was in store for me.
We left klang around 6.30am and reached our destination at around 7.10 am and immediately started to climb Having been to Broga, I thought this should be a breeze
How wrong I was . It was quite a steep climb and more difficult than broga. I was grasping for breath half way and the thought that went through my head was what have I got myself in to.?
I stopped a couple of time to have my drink.and once to adjust my back pack and did not notice my friend have left without me. I thought I could catched up with him, (only latter did I learnt he had taken a different path. ) I could not see my friend, I tried to called him on the hand phone but there was no service so I went ahead and end up in a path that goes down hill instead of uphill . After a while I was convinced I was lost and deceide to double back as there was not way to catch up with my friend. As I was making my way up I met a small group and asked them for direction and was informed the path I took was indeed the correct way , even though it seems wrong to me.

One thing I notise was the people would greet one another even though they were total strangers Another thing that I observed was they would claps their hands. Maybe an indication to the group that they are ahead so that the rest could catch up in case they got lost ? Or was it to scare away wild animals? Maybe I should have inquired.
I stayed with the group and after about half an hour we reached the peak. What a relief.
I make it.! After a while I saw my friend who had taken another path and reached only minutes later.
We took a short break and then continue towards the water fall which took another half hour to reach.
Along the way I notice there were marker left by people who were there before. I suppose that was to help people incase they got lost. Going down the hill to the water fall was not easy even though there were rope tied on trees to aid those going down hill.
It was just a small water fall and after a while we make our way up to the peak again, rested awhile. My friend deceided to take a nap while I did some work up on some make shift” gym Equipment” By noon time we make our way down and head for home. We reached Klang around 1.30 pm and had a meal of bak kut .teh.


As I thought back of my hill experience, there is a lesson I could draw from this episode.There are also hills in our life, which we need to conquer.
My hill challenge was tough and I almost gave up half way. I even got separated along the way. It’s ok to be slow and we should not be afraid to ask for help when we are lost Had I gave up I would have missed reaching the peak. What motivate me? My goal, my ultimate destination which is the peak! We need to persevere and do not give up easily.
I like David’s attitude which is found in Psalm 121:1
I will lift up my eyes to the hills - from whence comes my help?"
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of Heaven and Earth.
He was able to look beyond the hill upward heaven towards God ,where his help lies.
To lift the gaze from the ground to a higher plain. Have you ever climbed a mountain? As you start the climb, you look up at the mountain and think of the challenges you will face on the way up. You contemplate the view from the summit. There's something solid and timeless about a mountain - it beckons the climber to stand on the summit The writer of Hebrew has this to say:-

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.(Heb 12:1)

The Marker along the way.helps hiker who may be lost or to confirm they are on the right track. We can be encourage and motivated by marks left by Christians for us to follow .Reading good Christian books help and learning from the experience of seasoned Christians will encourage in our quest to finish the race.
Just as the hikers greet one another which is an acknowledgement and encouragement to the other hikers especially those who are going downhill to those who are just coming up.

Paul always opens his letter with greetings . It is not uncommon whenever we have guest speakers from different churches ,they also bring greetings from their local churches. It is like telling us they have not forgotten us and are praying for us.

As I took stock after the event I reliased how important it is to have enough water. I brought two small bottle and finish it on the hill even before coming down hill. Big mistake.! I was not well equipped.
The Christian walk is never easy. We are bound to face problems, persecutions even.
Jesus gave us an insight
Jesus told His disciples, "In the world you will have tribulation. but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).
Discouragment are bound to come our way and spiritual attack from the enemy,
But we will be spare from the on slaughter of the enemy if we are fully geared. We need to put on the full armour of God described in Ephesians 6:10–18)

IS TROUBLE YOUR FRIEND??

Have been listening to this songs so often on the radio, finally checked it out on youtube. I just can't understand it, how can trouble be your friend?
Is it friend or Fiend ?
Interesting in the Bible Jesus also menetion we will face trouble(some version tribulation) in this world .it is almost inevitable .
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33

But he assured us He has overcome the world, and since He has overcome the world we should to, as He has given us the power to do so.

Here is the lyrics to Lenka's Trouble is a friend


Trouble will find you
No matter where you go
Oh, oh
No matter if you're fast
No matter if you're slow
Oh, oh
The eye of the storm
wanna cry in the morn
Oh, oh
You're fine for a while
But you start
To lose control
He's there in the dark
He's there in my heart
He waits in the wings
he's gotta play a part
Trouble is a friend
Yeah Trouble
Is a friend of mine
Ahh
Trouble is a friend
But trouble is a foe
Oh, oh
And no matter
What I feed him
He always seems to grow
Oh, oh
He sees what I see
And he knows
What I know
Oh, oh
So don't forget
As you ease
On down my road
He's there in the dark
He's there in my heart
He waits in the wings
He's gotta play a part
Trouble is a friend
Yeah Trouble
Is a friend of mine
So don't be alarmed
If he takes you
By the arm I won't let him win
But I'm a sucker for his charm
For his charm Trouble is a friend
Yeah Trouble
Is a friend of mine
Ahh
How I hate the way
He makes me feel
And how I try
To make him leave
I try
Oh, oh, I try
But he's there in the dark
He's there in my heart
He waits in the wings
He's gotta play a part
Trouble is a friend
Yeah
Trouble
Is a friend of mine
So don't be alarmed
If he takes you
By the arm
I won't let him win
But I'm a sucker for his charm
For his charm
Trouble is a friend
Yeah Trouble
Is a friend of mine
Ahh Ooh Ahh Ooh





Elvis also sang about Trouble. infact two songs.

click link below for the video


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXVeo7_xNsg



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BkzZfMdL__o

What happens when you give the world some free beats? A whole lot of awesome, that's what. [I Heart Music]

What happens when you give the world some free beats? A whole lot of awesome, that's what. [I Heart Music]

MAGICK RIVER: A Farewell Message from MJ...

MAGICK RIVER: A Farewell Message from MJ...

Michael Jackson's hits on BC & BP

BODYCOMBAT:BC14-02. Pump 69 - Smooth Criminal

BC36-06. Badlands Inc. -BAD

BadBC37-02. Fall Out Boy feat. John Mayer -Beat It

Suggest track for condition track from BP44: Smooth Criminal

BODYPUMP:BP16-03. The Way You Make Me Feel

BP20-07. Jam

BP23-06. Blood On The Dance Floor

BP44-03. Smooth Criminal

MAGICK RIVER: ONE PERAK! ~ by Martin Jalleh

MAGICK RIVER: ONE PERAK! ~ by Martin Jalleh

The King of Pop is dead

Just heard over the news the passing of Michael jackson, the icon of pop music. I know a lot of his fans are mourning over their loss. I felt the same when I heard the news on the death of the King of roll and roll, Elvis Presely over 32 years ago. So I can understand how they must have felt right now. Msn news report here and cnn carries the report here.

Though I am not a big fan of the MJ, but I cant denied I have not heard of his songs. who hasnt? His songs are played almost any other day on air and in the mall. Lately I have joined the gym and some of his songs are used in quite a few of the releases in Body combat, one of the programme offer by Les Mills

Two of my favourite MJ songs are Ben and I'll be there when he was with the Jackson 5.

enjoy the video

Body combat

my favourite group exercise/work out

http://jeremyhenderson.com/blog/fathers-day-and-priorities

FOOD FOR THOUGHTS

A friend of mine email me this article which makes interesting reading.thanks jennifer.The 12 Most Powerful Super FoodsBy Amy Paturel, M.S., M.P.H.Why Are They So Super?Ask five nutritionists to rate the 12 most powerful foods and you'll get five different lists, but many of the selections will overlap. Why? Because every food provides something different: Some are a rich source of protein or fiber but void of many vitamins and minerals, while others contain disease-fighting phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals, but no protein. The trick, claim experts, is to get a variety of the best foods. The following 12 power foods are a good place to start.AvocadosSure they're high in fat, but avocados contain healthful monounsaturated fat, which has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. 'Avocados aid in blood and tissue regeneration, stabilize blood sugar, and are excellent for heart disorders,' says Ed Bauman, Ph.D., director of Bauman College . They're loaded with fiber (11 to 17 grams per fruit) and are a good source of lutein, an antioxidant linked to eye and skin health.Apples'An apple a day really does keep the doctor away,' says Jonny Bowden, Ph.D., C.N.S., author of The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth. Apples are loaded with the powerful antioxidants quercetin and catechin, which protect cells from damage - that means a reduced risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease, especially if you eat the skin. Research shows that the apple peel contains five times more polyphenols than the flesh. Apples and their skins pack a lot of fiber too (about twice that of other common fruits, including peaches, grapes, and grapefruit), which may help fight the battle of the bulge.BlueberriesAntiaging superstars, blueberries are loaded with antioxidants, especially anthocyanins, which have been shown to improve vision and brain function. Studies show that eating blueberries slows impairments in motor coordination and memory that accompany aging. These little berries also reduce inflammation, which is inextricably linked with virtually every chronic disease from Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, to diabetes and heart disease. Other studies show that blueberries have much greater anticancer activity than other fruitsCabbageIn the vegetable world, the Brassica genus reigns supreme, and the cabbage is the most impressive of the lot. Brassica vegetables (including broccoli, bok choy) contain compounds called indoles, which have been shown to reduce the risk of cancer dramatically. 'Eating cabbage more than once a week cut men's colon cancer odds by 66 percent,' says Bauman. 'Cabbage also stimulates the immune system, kills bacteria and viruses, and is a good blood purifier.' If you go for the red variety, you'll also get a healthy dose of anthocyanins (the same pigment molecules that make blueberries blue), another powerful antioxidant with an anticancer punch.Fish and Fish OilEating fish helps cut the risk of heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's, stroke, diabetes, and arthritis. The fatty varieties may also help alleviate depression. The American Heart Association recommends that adults eat at least two fish meals per week, especially wild salmon, herring, and sardines, because those varieties provide the most heart-healthy omega 3s. Avoid mercury-containing varieties like shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish, and albacore tuna, says Roberta Anding, M.S., R.D., national spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. (Chunk light tuna is okay.)GarlicResearch shows that garlic lowers total cholesterol and triglyceride (blood fat) levels, helping prevent clogged arteries. 'Two to three cloves a day cut the odds of subsequent heart attacks in half for heart disease patients,' says Bauman. 'Garlic also tops the National Cancer Institute's list of potential cancer-preventive foods.' Whole baked garlic helps detoxify the body of heavy metals like mercury (from fish) and cadmium. Garlic also acts as an antibacterial and antiviral, boosting resistance to stress-induced colds and infections. Can't stand garlic breath? Chew on a sprig of parsley.MushroomsUsed for centuries in Eastern medicine, mushrooms have powerful effects on the immune system – especially the maitake, shiitake, and reishi varieties. 'Mushrooms such as maitake help prevent and treat cancer, viral diseases, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure,' says Bauman. In fact, mushrooms are used as an adjunctive cancer treatment throughout Asia because of their ability to counteract the toxic effects of chemotherapy and radiation while simultaneously shrinking tumors. What's more, Japanese researchers have found that regularly eating shiitake mushrooms lowers blood cholesterol levels up to 45 percent.AlmondsAlmonds are loaded with fiber and monounsaturated fat, both of which have been shown to lower cholesterol. According to the Food and Drug Administration, eating 1.5 ounces of most nuts, including almonds, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease. And even though almonds are relatively high in fat and calories, studies show that eating almonds can actually help with weight loss (their protein, fiber, and monounsaturated fats provide the feeling of fullness, preventing overeating).EggsThe best protein source on the planet, eggs consistently outrank milk, beef, whey, and soy in the quality of protein they provide. In addition to containing all nine essential amino acids, eggs are loaded with nutrients. 'And for God's sake, eat the yolks,' says Bowden. People avoid the yolks because they fear cholesterol, but egg yolks contain choline, which helps protect heart and brain function and prevents cholesterol and fat from accumulating in the liver.FlaxseedsLoaded with alpha-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid that helps reduce inflammation, flaxseed has been used for centuries for medicinal and health reasons. Gandhi himself proclaimed, 'Wherever flaxseed becomes a regular food item among the people, there will be better health.' Bauman adds, 'The seed itself has terrific nutritional value, very usable protein, tremendous fatty acids, and minerals like magnesium, potassium, and zinc.' Additionally, they're a great source of fiber.PomegranatesPomegranates have up to three times the antioxidants of red wine and green tea – and the juice has been shown to reduce artery-clogging plaque, which in turn prevents heart disease and stroke. Research shows that long-term consumption of pomegranate juice may also help slow aging and protect against cancer.Dark ChocolateWhen it comes to chocolate, bitter is better – at least in terms of health. The benefits of chocolate come from flavonols and antioxidants (the same disease-fighting chemicals found in cranberries, apples, strawberries, and red wine). The caveat: Only real cacao contains flavonols, so look for chocolate that boasts a high percentage of cacao (60 percent or more). Dark chocolate also has fewer calories than other varieties, and when eaten in moderation, it lowers unhealthy LDL cholesterol and prevents plaque from building up in your arteries.

Miracle 2009

Cause for keeping fitFitness First does its bit for charity with its Miracle 2009 workout
Tribe Challenge Competitors
BodyStep Retro StyleFITNESS First successfully raised more than RM60,000 this year at its Miracle 2009 charity workout at the outdoor piazza, the Curve, recently. This annual event is aimed at raising funds for selected welfare homes and, this year, the money collected was split between two children’s homes – the Agathians Home and Shelter home for children. The money was raised through a series of activities which include coupon sales for the participation of all ­activities for Miracle 2009; the sale of Miracle 2009 merchandise which included ­­­T-shirts, button badges, wrist bands, etc; ­donations dropped into boxes placed in all Fitness First clubs around Malaysia; and the sale of the Miracle BodyFirst gift packs.At the event, Fitness First organised group exercise classes back-to-back for members and non-members at a mere RM10 per entrance fee. Each class lasted between 60 and 90 minutes.
Measday with representatives of the welfare homes and Serena C.
Non-members were able to ­experience the different types of group exercise classes offered by Fitness First.One of the highlights of the day was the Tribe Challenge – a competition which was designed in-house by Fitness First.This challenge saw teams of five (inclusive of a group exercise instructor) who had to perform a track of one the group exercise programmes offered by Fitness First – either ­BodyCombat, BodyJam or ­BodyStep – during the ­elimination round which was held before Miracle 2009.The tribe teams selected ­during the elimination rounds then compete as finalists ­during the event. The winning team was ­determined by the highest ­performance points and the highest number of votes received.In line with this year’s theme We Care, Fitness First personal trainers and group exercise instructors also gamely participated at a charity auction to raise funds for the cause.Serena Choong, better known as Serena C of mix.fm who is also a friend of Fitness First, was at the event as well to do her bit for the community. Serena showcased the newest moves for BodyCombat which proved to be a crowd-pleaser.Shaun Measday, the managing ­director of Fitness First Malaysia, said: “At Fitness First, we take great pleasure in organising Miracle every year as we feel it is our great responsibility to do our part for the society in which we operate. “People may wonder why we, as a health and fitness provider, organise an annual charity event as such? “Well, why not? What better way can we raise funds for the less fortunate than by getting fitness enthusiasts to ­contribute and to have fun doing what they love at the same time?”

story from the sun
Tue, 23 Jun 2009

MAGICK RIVER: The 2009 World Submarine Racing Championships. Exclusive photos.

MAGICK RIVER: The 2009 World Submarine Racing Championships. Exclusive photos.

FATHER'S DAY.JUNE 21ST 2009

What did I do this father's day. ? Well my wife and I was invited by Pastor Albert ong who runs the good samaritian home in klang to the church that he is attending. Peace City Tabernacle or >PCt in short is at Sunway just opposite the sunway pyramic mall. It was a combined mother and father's day celebration.
There was some skit and some songs from the 60s and 70s follwed by some games.
Oh yes there was also an Elvis song done by Mr wong, who used to work for the welfare department in klang. Quite a memorable event. After a quick lunch, we rushed back to port klang to fetch my mum in law and would you believe it? headed back to Sunway again to the sunway mall.This is the first time I had ever travelled to the same destination twice in the same day and within a gap of a few hours. After more than 3 hours in the mall it was time to leave for home.
Had a quick dinner in Klang before calling it a day. so some Father day's celebration huh?
My two sons who sent me text greetings, but I was hoping my two god daughters. would too. (sigh.)
Anyway Happy Father's Day to all.

Here is further reading on history of father's day and some good write up on father.

http://www.marvelcreations.com/fathersday.html

note:one of them, who happen to be my personal trainer greeted me(albeit a bit late) when I was at the gym., so all is forgiven.

Twitter Blog: Hello, New Zealand

Twitter Blog: Hello, New Zealand

MIRACLE 09 -FITNESS FIRST'S YEARLY EVENT

the place was so packed with hardly with room to move.
my God daughter snow ,with her manager Jane.

Eugene with the klang , team








This is my first time I attended such an event. I was looking forward to it. Manage to get my Body combat friend Nixon to join me. we headed for the venue in Damansara after Rendezvoused at the Klang executive club. We reached there within half and hour but finding a parking space in the car park was quite a challenge. After going in circles, finaly decided to park at any space I could find. We make our way to the open space in front of fitness first's club where the event was held. Quickly registered for the body combat class. Attendance fees was RM20.00 as this was a charity event. Paid with the coupons which I had purchased earlier from the Klang club. The remaining of the coupons were used to vote for the tribe challenge events. Since I was from the Klang club and my god daughter was also part of the team I casted all the votes to the Klang tribe.
The place where the class was held was a bit too small where about 100 or so people jamed packed the place. There was hardly any space to move let alone kicked. Since I could not joined in the exercise comfortably, I have to turned photographer and snaped away.
It was quite and memorable experience. Unfortunately I could not stay till the end as I had to rushed back to attend a meeting in Kota Kemuning.
I found out later the Klang team came up second. well done KBT team. you does us proud.




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what will life be without a job??

Have been informed moments ago that my service with the company will not be extended. the management have gone back on their word. they have indicated earlier I was given a one year contract. now they says otherwise. the excuse? recession it seems. business did not pick up. etc.
Well just as well I guess. now how am I gonna break this news to the mrs? will I have enough faith to trust God? Can I cope with this?
I need God's strenght , Grace more than ever.

MY WEBSITE

Have not update my website for a long time. just manage to update it to include
the new business I am trying out.
Please do visit and input your comment which will be much appreciated.
have a nice day.



http://www.freewebs.com/jltc/


https://www.freewebs.com/jltc54/

Saying goodbye aint easy

May 22nd 2009: I was just checking my facebook after returning from a meeting. A pop up screen appear at the bottom . it was the chat screen. At first I was glad as it was good friend from Thailand whom I planned to meet in four month's time. We chat for a while and finally she broke the news she has closed her tagged account, which she was very active and where we share tag and other activities. It would also appear she will not be able to connect as often as before though we will still remain friends. somehow I dont sense that. I think it is a polite way of saying goodbye. I found it hard to accept. Friendship built over a period of time ,then suddenly it's goodbye. I hope it is just over reacting as I valued her friendship, just like a value any other friendship.
Well only time will tell. I will just have to wait, and if it turn out the way as I thought nothing I can do. I have to accept and respect her decision.
is there a lesson to learnt here??

An almost misadventure at Lata hammer.

After weeks of waiting , the day finally arrived. Sunday 17th May, 2009 I got up at 3.30 am even though my alarm was set to ring at 4.45 am. after day could not sleep, so went on line for awhile. nothing much to do on the net, so I washed up and get ready for my friend to pick me up to meet some of the others who need to car pool as well. Had our breafast at a 24hrs mamak restaurant at Bukit Tinggi,klang. An hour later and we were on our way to meet up with the rest waiting at Tesco , Ampang.
Next stop a a petrol station to get some light snack and filled up the car and we were on our way to Lata Hammer, Bentong.
After some wrong detour and wrong turned we finally make it to our destination. We were told we have to crossed a stream in order to get to our water fall on the other side .Someone suggest we get take off our shoes in order not to get them wet.I thought why not since I brought along my slippers and I could changed into them.Big Mistake! while crossing I step on the rocks instead of walking on the sand bed. The result, I slipped, I stumble , I felled. Not once but twice. I should have remember , the rock will be slippery once in water. I was soaked wet, so was my handphone and camera. The camera seems ok after being dried. But I have yet to test out the phone. I was told to let it dry ,so I allowed another extra day to be double sure. Hopefully it will be ok otherwise it will be very painfully for my wallet which was also wet by the way)
Anyway I got out tried to saved my two previous assets by wrapping my towerl around them. once done I joined the rest of the team members and headed for our destination . after 45 minutes of so we reached the waterfall. It was ice cold.
The guys wasted no time to dip into the water and have photos taken. suddenly there was a shout for help. we thought they were just having fun and fooling around unti the guy said I am not joking. A quick action by one of the guy who swam toward them and went under the water and pulled out the guy . Thank goodness a tragedy was avoided.
! After resting for an hour we make our way out of the woods to Bukit tinggi, Genting to have our lunch before heading to our homes.



photo credit: coshin.

Wedding is quite an expensive affair these days.

over the weekend I attended the bachelor nite dinner and on the following morning witness the wedding ceremony, including the tea ceremony of my nephew( my sister's second son)Later in the evening his wedding dinner. This is the second time,the host does not accept Ang-pows. The first time I came across this rare situation was the wedding dinner of the elder brother of this nephew. It was a grand wedding, just like the first one.
On the way home my wife remind me on the budget for our son who has reach the ripe age for marriage. so I ask how much and she said at least 50K. This thought went through my head it would means 100K to arrange the marriage for both my son. So there goes my retirement fund.!
I am due to retire by the end of the year and was planing to withdraw from my EPF to pay off some of my debts and maybe have a holiday with the Mrs.,but since my wife have plan to get our son to settle down by next year .It is not cheap these days to get married. so I guess holiday have to be put on hold.