Horn! Horn!

I officially received my first horn while trying to park this morning.


I was trying to reverse my car into a carpark. I probably took 15 seconds to do it. Immediately was horned by the car waiting and then a cold stare by the passenger.


I have experienced extreme patience for the last 3 years in Thailand. Nobody horns anyone for parking there. People might even stop to help you direct your parking. But not horn. The downside of that is... everyone takes their time on the road :-) People stop their car in the middle of the road, walk out and try to pay for parking ticket! I experienced it personally. I was too shocked to horn.


We have a private joke in Thailand whenever we hear someone horn on the road. We will usually comment, "That's a Malaysian lah"



Can't get the best of both worlds.

Tomorrow is the Day

My family and I are leaving Bangkok tomorrow.


It feels weird having a countdown... 2 more days... 1 more day... to leave.


Rather than thinking about all the things I will miss, I want to Thank God for all the things and people I have enjoyed throughout my stay in Thailand.


God has blessed me with so many good friends here.... and you are one of them.


One more day and I am leaving.....

Great Job!

The Movers sent 5 packers and a Supervisor on the first day and at the end of the 2nd day there were 10 personnel loading and packing everything. They did their job as if they were born packers. Amazing!


The reason we engaged Allied Pickford was because we knew Neil from Bangkok Soccer League when we initially came and then they started homeschooling their children. So, we got together more often even when my children stopped going for the soccer training.


I am glad I engaged their services. They did well.

The children having a photo shot with the Allied Pickfords banner

The children really enjoyed fooling around ... even a hide-and-seek game

My goodness! How high....

The "little house" beside the house

The packing took 2 full days. The first day they ended at 4.30pm and the 2nd day they finished at 6pm. We initially estimated our goods at 20 ft container but after all the packing, it exceeded. So, we decided to get a 40 ft container.


The goods will take 3 weeks to reach Malaysia inclusive of paper work, clearance and etc.


I hope the unpacking and all will be as good as this. I hope the Malaysian side will not disappoint us. The Thai packers had been excellent.


We are so thankful to God for such a smooth two day - 10 and 11 Feb.... After that, we have to leave the house and stay at our friend's home. Then, catching up with friends, bidding farewells, etc. We have already had our first few rounds of farewell lunch and dinner. After this, almost every lunch and dinner will be packed with farewell get-togethers. Can get quite fun and depressing all at the same time.


Sigh. Part and parcel of the transition process.

The Moving Day

Its finally here.... The Moving Day.


We are finally having our things all packed up. Put into the box, wrapped, sealed and shipped. I make it sound like hard work but its really a supervisory job. I am just worried that I accidentally pack something I need for the next 1 month. That's my only concern.


Its going to be 2 days of packing. Yes, I know. There's heaps of things. I brought my whole house here 3 years ago and now I am taking my whole house back. I am leaving somethings behind, giving it to my friends. But the rest is coming with me!


Its going to be an interesting day...

Thai Food

Before I came to Thailand, I was a real Malaysian. I loved everything Malaysian. Especially food. Joel, my eldest boy he is an even bigger fan of food. A real connoisseur. Together, we enjoyed food immensely! He is the one who pushes me to do better at cooking. Praises me after a satisfied meal and hugs me when I cook his favorite dishes. I know I reached his heart when I cooked his favorite food. Ethaniel loves food too but not as much as Joel.


Indian food... love it!


Chinese food... love it!


Malay food... love it!


Japanese food... love it!


Italian food... love it!


Mexican food... love it!


Tex-Mex... love it!


Middle Eastern food... love it!


One thing about Malaysians or is it this family(?), we are so adaptable and exposed to so many types of food that, we can be thrown into any society and thrive. Its unfortunate that we are thriving here. My children and I, anyway. We have grown to love the Thai food like Tom Yum Gung (Prawn Tom Yum Soup), Kaeng Khiao wan - Khanom Chin (Green curry with Noodles) Som Tum Thai (Papaya Salad), BBQ chicken with sticky rice (how we love that!), pad thai (Fried Noodles) and many more!


Three years ago, before I arrived in Thailand, I totally disliked the Green Curry but now I have a serious addiction to it. Sigh. Where am I going to find a THB25 plate of Khanom Chin in Malaysia? Any idea?


I have gotta to go and learn some Thai recipes. Anyone out there... help?

A "Good Bye" Email

I sent the following email to friends whom I met in Thailand, just to let them know that I am leaving soon. A simple message but truly from my heart....

********************

Dear Friends,

The last few months has been a difficult & uncertain time in our life. Some or most of you already know that Ivan, my husband was retrenched early Nov 08. Ever since then he has been looking for a job here in Bangkok but nothing seems concrete. So, the time has come for us to move on and return to our home country, Malaysia. We are not sure what the future holds but we trust God that when we give Him our every need, He will take care of us.

If given the opportunity, we would have loved to stay... We have grown to love this neighbor country, Thailand, the land of smiles immensely. The food! The food!!! We would miss the tom yum gung, green curry, som tam, pad ka paw, bbq chicken with sticky rice and most of all, the fresh fruits which can be purchased cheaply at the market. Being able to eat a meal for THB15. Lol... Impossible in Malaysia.

We would love to meet up and catch up before we leave but if it be so unfortunate that we missed the opportunity and did not manage to say proper good byes, we want you to know that we see our life in Thailand like a huge jigsaw puzzle which God has given to us and you/your family are that one piece, regardless of how large or small the piece is, which perfected the picture.

Our hearts are heavy, having to part ways. As we have discovered, a place is just a place but its the company that makes it fun! We have been so blessed with this brief encounter with you in this past 3 years. Our stay here has been so memorable, adventurous, sweet, exciting because of you.... There is a reason why God has allowed our path to cross, for whatever reason, our life in Thailand have been enriched and we hope that we also have been a blessing to you/your family. A small piece of jigsaw puzzle in the journey of your life, as well.

We would like to wish you all of God's blessing, love, grace and mercy to follow you all the days of your life.

Let's not forget to keep in touch.... Please visit my blog www.psalmone21.blogspot, as I continue the next phase of the Journey of My Life.

Please call on us when you visit Malaysia for work or holiday, we would love to catch up!

Joyce Meyer & Hillsong in Chiang Mai, Thailand - Part 1

I went to Joyce Meyer & Hillsong, Festival of Life in Chiang Mai with a friend's church. They rented two 11-seater van which was very comfortable. There were many pee stops and we still managed to reach within a reasonable timing.


The first night, there were to be a concert by Hillsong & local church groups.

A group photo with the gang


The MC for the night



One of the local band.... wearing cowboy hats...


Gsus7 team members which consist of mostly girls... Sorry for the blur photo. That's the best shot of them.

Joyce Meyer didn't preach the first night. There were at least 3 local church bands which led in praise and worship. One of the band was a famous Christian local band named Gsus7. They even have their own recording albums. Good singers and good looking guys/girls. It was mostly in Thai and unfamiliar songs. So, I didn't really enjoy the first night.

Well, what do you know... I managed to snap a photo with Hillsong co-songleader and guitarist

The stadium was packed with mostly Thai and some foreigners, like me

This is my first time attending a live Hillsong concert. I didn't really know what to expect. I am not the very expressive type who jumps with fast and loud beat songs. In fact, I found their music a little too loud for my ears. Then again, what do you expect? Hillsong caters for the young people. Well, I am young... in the heart, anyway. It didn't really help that I was way near the front of the stage. Understanding the consequences of that, I had some cotton in my ears... ;-)


I was really blessed seeing the stadium being so crowded with people praising and worship all together. There were easily 10,000 people, if not more.


The weather was very beautifully cool... where is my blanket? Grrrrggghhh... *shivers*

Away

Sorry I have not been able to update my blog.


I was at a Mission Trip in the Palong Village in Chiang Dao, North Thailand and they had no mobile phone signal. Therefore, I was unable to go online. Imagine, 3 days and 2 nights without internet. I almost had withdrawal symptoms *cold sweat*


As of today, we arrived back to Chiang Mai town at around 5pm. Checked into our accommodation, took a good shower (you should have seen the thick layer of dust we washed off) and walked the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.


I have just arrived back and hitting the laptop to update you the happenings on my side.


The last few days has been really exciting. Tell you about it later.


BTW, sorry I have not been coming by your blog. Will visit once I get the chance.

Onwards to Tak, Thailand

15 December 2008, Monday


We started our journey this morning at 9.20am. Our two weeks of travelling cum Mission Trip has officially started today.


After 200 "pee stops", snacks and lunch, we arrived at destination for the night. Its almost 9 hours if we drive all the way to Chiang Mai, North Thailand but we have decided to stop half way.


We were here last year and have decided that its going to be fun to come back again. Of course, this time round, we have Mary with us. So much more fun!


We are at a National Park in Tak. As expected, the weather is cool, breezy, fresh and absolutely wonderful!!!!


When we arrived at about 4pm, we quickly changed and headed towards the waterfall. Its was freezing! I mean freezing!!! Joel and I was at it again, pushing each other into the water. It all started when I splashed him with some cold water. Bad idea. He came back with a revenge and both of us were in the water!!! Aaaaarrrrggghhh!!! Cold! Cold!


Later, we decided to do a crazy thing. Each one of us jump into the water.... Joel first, followed by me and then Ethaniel.


(photos will be added later)

Economy of Thailand

The global financial crisis has not been helpful to the economy of Thailand. Unfortunately, due to the closing of the Suvarnabhumi Aiport by protectors, there would be loss of job predicted to be 1 million, next year.


I have heard that the tourism industry was the worst affected and they have already started retrenching employees.


Few days ago, I went to Pratunam Shopping centre, it was so deserted. I went to a particular shop at about 2pm and she told me that I was the first customer. Of course, it was slightly easier to bargain and they were not too stingy in giving out discounts.


Hotels which usually have occupancy rate of 80% to 100% during this period of time was only 12% full and some even less.


I am really sad for the industry and all the innocent Thai people whose livelihoods are affected.


*sigh*


They really need our prayers.

Camp Out Time

The weather in Bangkok has been absolutely heavenly! This is my favorite time of the year. I love waking up to the cool weather. Whilst in Malaysia, we never get a chance to enjoy weather like this at our doorstep. If we wanted cool weather, we either switch on the air-cond or go to Genting Highlands which is about 1.5 hours drive from Kuala Lumpur city. Its the nearest hill from Kuala Lumpur.


So, its a real privilege and magical experience to be enjoying winter. I am always grateful to God for allowing me to enjoy moments like this.


Since we arrived in Bangkok, Thailand, the cool weather arrives during winter time without fail. Every year it seems to get cooler and cooler. There were previous years, before we arrived in Bangkok, Thailand, there were only 2-3 days of cool weather and the rest of the time was hot. That was what we were told, by our local friends. I cannot help but think that it's God blessing and gift to me.


Its funny, last winter, I woke every morning saying, "I wish, I wish, the whole year could be like this". Of course, it did not happen....


A few days ago, the boys and Daddy decided to camp outside the yard. I thought that was a great idea. So, they set-up the tent, brought out the mattresses, their pillows, bolsters and blankets.

The boys getting ready for their camp-out

Just before they retired for the night at about 10pm, they used their walkie-talkie to "talk" to each other. SWAT Team Member Joel was requested to "checked out" the neighborhood. They needed an empty house, a not-at-home-neighbor to carry out their mission of "exploration". I have no clue what this Rambos were going to do if the owners were out. But I saw BB guns, bullet proof vest, binoculars, goggles and mischievious looks on their faces. That itself was good enough to scare my wits off! You know boys, the things they are capable of *eyes-rolling-hands-up-in-surrender*

Roger! Roger! Are you there?

Fully equipped. To ???? What???

I told them I am not bailing them out from jail. I had a long day. So, they abandoned the mission.


Since there was not enough space in the tent, I didn't join them. They slept in a "bungalow" 6-man tent with heaps of space to roll around and even to hug their bolsters. Its fun, adventurous and comfort all rolled into one. Where in the world do you get it? Except in your own yard!!!

The huge tent just infront of the porch

Rise and shine?

In the last 2 nights I have taken Daddy's space and slept with the boys. During the night its freezing cold *shivering* I needed 2 thick blankets to keep me warm. But I must say that I am really enjoying myself.


I know these are memories which my boys will remember the rest of their lives. When we return to Malaysia, we will never get a chance to camp in the yard and yet have cool weather like this to give us comfort to lull us to sleep.


How about trying it? You might even save some electrity.

Japanese Restaurant - Mokkori

I would like to introduce an authentic Japanese Restaurant which we visited a few months ago. We have tried to return to it for another 2 more times but each time it was fully packed. Thanks to Sean for introducing it to us. Eventhough its way overdue.


We can see that most of the customers are Japanese. That shows how authentic the food is. Apparently, the Japanese never frequent Japanese Restaurants like Fuji or those run by non-Japanese. I guess, it would be strange to visit a Malaysian Restaurant run by Thai as well. But then again, I am not fussy. As long as the food taste like Malaysian food!

The price is very reasonable and food is very delicious. You can get a bowl of rice with chicken for THB120 (RM12 / USD4). The portions are very big. Unfortunate its just nice for my 2 big eaters.

The tables are long and extremely narrow. KG joined us for lunch that day.

This restaurant is very small and run by a Japanese who shouts his greetings in Japanese. I almost jumped when he did that the last time. I just smiled.


Its along Thong Lor, just at the beginning of the Soi on the right when you turn from Sukhumvit. Sorry, I don't have the exact address.


Enjoy!

Christmas Time

Christmas is around the corner. Everyone is in a festive mood.


I love Christmas time. I love the Christmas songs. The bright lights and decorations on the Christmas tree. Eventhough, since last year I have disposed of my Christmas tree because it was a pagan belief rather than symbolic of Christ's birth. But still. I love to look at the Christmas tree and lights.


It has always given me a special feeling, Christmas time.


The Christmas songs at KSBJ, an internet radio is incredible! Click here to enjoy it. I have been having it switched on the whole day and it just gives me all this amazing "Christmassie" feeling.


I am the first generation of Christian, so, Christmas time is not a family occasion. We embrace the meaning but its not like Chinese New Year, whereby all of us gather around for a family reunion and dinner. This year we might not even be spending it in Bangkok but instead in Chiang Mai. Since we are going for a Mission Trip and holidaying in the North. Doubt we will be back in time by Christmas.


We don't bake and cook Christmas pudding, turkey or all those stuff that most Caucasians do. Eventhough I would love to stuff my face with it.


I think this year, I will take the time to write a post on my gratefulness to Jesus, my Savior, for coming into this world. To tell Him how much He means to me and appreciate the magnitude of what He has done.


How are you going to spend your Christmas?

Thailand Best Buy

	Thailand Bestbuys 2008	12 - 21 December, 2008
	Meet Thailand's biggest annual gift fair. The event will embrace over 700 booths selling gift items, souvenirs, accessories, stationery and much more. Organizer : N.C.C. Exhibition Organizer Co., Ltd. Tel : +66 (0) 2 203 4222-5 http://www.thaibestbuys.com

This sale is on every year around this time. So, its a great time to go there to get your Christmas presents or if you have visitors who are keen to purchase Thai products. This is the place to go.


Date: 12 - 21 Dec 2008

Time: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Venue: Queen Sirikit Hall, Plenary Hall, Zone C1-2, Plaza, Atrium, Main Foyer

Suvarnabhumi Airport Opening!

So glad to hear that the Suvarnabhumi Airport is opening by 4th Dec 08. All those stranded 350,000 people can now return to their home country soon.


Let's all pray for the peace of Thailand.


May God bless Thailand!

Neighbour

We have been staying in this Mooban (village) since we arrived in Thailand. Minus 3 weeks in the hotel upon arrival.


After moving in a few months, we had a new neighbor, just opposite our house.


He moved in with a .... hmm... err... with a partner who can be his daughter. Long legs, long hair, annoyingly slim and a distraction to the males in my home. Anyway. Since then she has left and there has been 1-2 more girls who has come and gone. He is now partner-less. Poor fella.

On a Saturday night, a few days ago, at about 4am in the morning, we were rudely awaken by a blasting music in English and Thai. Due to the loudness of the music, we woke up abruptly and a little blur.


Upon peeping out of the window, which is just above our head, we saw this neighbor returning after a rendezvous and probably too-much-booze night. We presumed that he will eventually off his blasting stereo once he parked his car, cover his convertible and go into his house. After all, its 4am. Duh!


We waited.


And waited.


And waited.


When you are trying get back to sleep after being rudely awaken at 4am, 5 mins is a long time. Forever. Its like watching wet paint dry.


"La la la la .... I cannot hear you". Its not working. I can still hear the LOUD music.


"Hey! Off your radio!" I screamed from the window. No response. I presumed he did not hear me over his blasting stereo.


Then Hubby went downstairs with a flashlight, intending to give a piece of his mind. He shouted a few times but no response. Then he flashed his torchlight at this half-drunk fella, who eventually took out a cigarette and started smoking, pretending he is having an English tea session with himself. I could just imagine Hubby's blood boiling... bubble.. bubble..


When a particular song was in intermission, Hubby shouted again, "Shut off your radio! Its 4am!"


He responded by shutting off the stereo and proceeded to scream very loudly, "OK, go to sleep". "I am not wrong. You are the one who is wrong", "F---", @*#*^$*"


We were getting worried when he went on and on challenging Hubby to go out. We hear so many stories of mafia, gangsters and Thai shooters. He could be a Mafia gang leader for all we know. He must be someone important if he owns an Mercedes SLK. Then again, maybe not, he could be a middle aged man who still gets pocket money from his Daddy. But unfortunately not enough pocket money to employ a cleaner to make his home livable.


After that I prayed, "In the name of Jesus, I silent you spirit of drunkeness. Keep quiet". Immediately, he kept quiet. Eventhough he was still standing at his gate, he was no longer shouting. He mumbled a few more sentences but no more shouting. Thank God!


We prayed some more to ask God to protect us.


The next day, we kept the BB gun near to our bed. Nobody mess with us. Hmph.

condition of his yard

practically ruined porch

State of Emergency;

We were in Lad Phrao area when Sean and then Ong called to say that there might be a coup happening in the evening.


So, we quickly went home.


On the way back, we went to the market and stocked up on food. Again, this food might last for weeks.


Since 6pm we are officially declared State of Emergency at the Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueng Airport.


Don't worry, my family and friends reading from Malaysia, Australia and Singapore. We are OK.... I think.

Thailand Political Unrest

I received an email from Thaivisa last night at about 10pm regards to the PAD invading Suvarnabhumi airport. Causing havoc to outbound flights.


I was shocked.


Of all places... the airport. Obviously they want to bring the tourism and economy further down the drain.


Many people are affected and inconvenienced due to the closure of the Suvarnabhumi Airport. I feel sorry for them.


*sigh*


Come on, enough already. Go home!

Day Out at Rot Fai Park

The Bangkok Homeschoolers had a day out at Rot Fai Park. Its our family's first visit to this place eventhough it's very near to Chatuchak Park. We had almost perfect weather. Cool and windy.


The children and I really enjoyed ourselves. It was a great park! Why didn't I discover it earlier???


Rental of bicycle was only THB20 (RM2) per bike for a whole day. The bicycle was in great condition and fun to ride. There were practically hundreds to choose from.

In Thai, its called Suan Rot Fai

My children really enjoyed this part... Its a replica of Bangkok road, equipped with traffic lights. The only thing missing was the Bangkok traffic.

Ethaniel really liked this bike... I want a new bike, Mummy!

The boys having a great time, sweating it out!

Do you see my pink bike? So girlie..

Ethaniel playing with J, 15 years old homeschooler at the lunch table.
He likes Ethaniel... kept pinching his face and say, "So cute". It was so funny. Who says that homeschoolers don't have social skills? A 7 years old playing perfectly well with a 15 years old.
They genuinely liked each other.



This is my 2nd time going out with this little boy. It was difficult to get him smile or to hold my hand. His Mummy says that he is shy. After a few hours later, I came over to him and told him to give me a smile. He looked over his shoulder for his Mummy but Mummy was not around. He decided that its OK to smile. I am so proud to have had captured this photo. So cute.

We were there from 11am to about 3pm. With an hour lunch break inbetween.


There is a small swimming pool but we didn't bring extra clothings, so, the children go for a dip.


Great place for the family to hang-out! We will definitely be back!

Winter is here in Bangkok!

The winter is officially here!!!!


I woke up to cool breeze this morning.


I love it! I love it! I love it!


Thank you, God... Thank you, God....


I am going to have a great day!