Ivy's Diary

Belated Wishes: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

2012-01-18T05:21:00.000-08:00

Merry Belated Christmas and Happy New Year everyone!!!!AHHH~ It's nearly two months since I last posted on my blog! I miss sharing things here. I would just blame it all to the ridiculous internet company. My old house's internet was having some technical problem on Christmas day. At first, my housemates and I thought it's Christmas time which means a lot of people probably were using skype or facebook chat or whatever social network to contact their family who live overseas, therefore the internet is down due to over usage. Unfortunately, we still couldn't connect to the internet for the next few days and it was Christmas and New Year holidays so the internet company was close. We have to wait for another week before we can get hold of the company technician. To cut the long story short, we ended up terminated the internet service since we were moving house shortly after the phone call. That also means I didn't have chance to access to internet properly. Anyhow...I've moved into my new place with few friends and I CAN ACCESS TO DA INTERNET 24/7!! * Jeez..talking about living without internet these days* *eyes rolling*.

Alrighty, so how was my Christmas? Erm... worrrkinggg. Well, I wasn't suppose to work but one of my Aussie colleague asked if I can cover the shift for her as she would like to spend Christmas with her family on Christmas night. Since I don't really have family here to celebrate with, I agreed. If my job wasn't the kind of job of providing caring service, I wouldn't want to work that night. But I seriously didn't mind working that night because how can I spend my Christmas night more meaningful than providing service to those elderly?! Plus I have to said they were especially nice on Christmas. ^.*

Here's some of my Favourites of Christmas-December:

Favourite Christmas Message:

“Often our efforts at Christmastime result in feeling stressed out, wrung out, and worn out during a time when instead we should feel the simple joys of commemorating the birth of the Babe in Behleham…What is the spirit we feel at Christmastime? It is His spirit – the Spirit of Christ.” – Pre. Thomas F. Monson

Favourite Christmas Gatherings Party:

Though I was invited to several Christmas parties (workplace, ward, friends, YSA), there were two particulars that I enjoy the most. The first one is my ward Christmas party, where we have to all dressed up in Biblical attire. Never have I ever stop feeling amazed by how good the ward or YSA activity committees are in planning activities, especially as big as this. They are just so creative which I think I would probably break down into tears half way organizing it. Aaanywho, I'm glad that I can finally wear the Baju Kurung that I brought from Malaysia 5 years ago. I think I turned out pretty good as a good Samaritan lady =)

I loveeee this pic dearly. It is perhaps one of the most completed group photo with Jonathan (the only male in our group) in it. They are the friends that went through the same 'pursuing-nursing' journey with me for the past 5 years. With them I felt completely myself because we come from same country, we know the same cultures. Because of them, my homesickness reduced. Though Jonathan had left to Perth, I hope we will continue to gather as often as we can ( it's not easy since we all work shift work) to maintain this special friendships we have.

Favourite Christmas Photo:

If I ever gonna have a daughter I hope she will be as cute as little Trinity!! She was one of my sunbeams in Church Primary class. Her dad is Malaysian Chinese, mum is Vietnamese Chinese, and little Trinity is Australian Born Chinese. Maybe because I am Malaysian too,so her dad always treated me like sister and called me 'Ah Mui' (little sister in Cantonese). I was grateful to be in the same ward with her family ever since I came to Australia until recently when I have to move out of the ward boundary. Yet, they still always include me in some of their family celebration. They are like my Aussie family =)

Favourite Christmas Music Video:

I've watch The Grinch ages ago (can't even remember how old I was). I don't remember much of the movie but one part that stuck in my mind was when Cindy Lou Who sang the song "Where are you Christmas". The caught my attention right away. I only recently look up the full lyrics and absolutely love it when it says "did Christmas change...or just me?"

Christmas means different to different people, cultures and belief. Some celebrate it, some don't. Some believe in Santa, some knows it is just a legend ( woops..sorry if you still believe in Santa). Christians know the celebration is about the birth of Jesus Christ. Indeed, Christmas is always the same. It is there. People change, change their attitudes towards Christmas Day based of various reasons.

Favourite my Christmas Outfit:

Thanksgiving

2011-11-29T18:49:00.000-08:00

According to my knowledge, some people who celebrate Thanksgiving's Day in America or else where in the wold will have a big feast at home with family or close friends. At the meal time, they will take turn to express their gratitude to one thing they appreciated. I think it is a really cool tradition/culture as sometimes we may not recognize what we are most thankful for until we say it out (note: I always enjoy listening to people of what they are thankful for). Therefore, in this blog entry, I would like to express my great appreciation for the most important thing that the Lord has given me : My Fammily. I can never thank the Lord enough for giving me the family I have. Though mum and dad are not together anymore but they are both lovely parents who want the best for me and Sharon.It will take another few hours just to talk about how much they have sacrifice to provide us for what we need and want in our childhood / teenage days. I have the most hardworking and intelligent sister who forever know what she wants in life and live to prove that she can always achieve most her goals. Needless to say, what can you ask more for a better brother-in-law than Leighton? IT genius, funny, and most importantly, a kind-hearted person.

It might be because I've grown up or I am far from home, I love and appreciate my family more and more as the years go on. I miss the every single family gathering time we had and hope that we can all live closer to each other again. Yes, I do believe i'm more of a family orientated person and I intend to stay this way forever.

Forever Love for my wonderful Mum!!!

They are my goofy awesome brother-in-law and smart pretty sister.

And my healthy Nana, with beloved Dad!

Sisterhood of the Funny Face!

Favourites of the Month:October

2011-10-31T05:06:00.000-07:00

Well, I realized that it is 'the' Halloween month and most blogs I visited or tweeter I followed or FB were/are all about celebration of Halloween for the last 2 weeks. Personally, I don't think I ever experience the real American's Halloween (mental note: must experience that the next time I visit America), which is more festive than Aussie's Halloween (because Aussies don't really celebrate it as big as the American!). Since I didn't end up going to any Halloween party this year but I would also like to touch on the 'Halloween topic', thus the following picture: I changed my mobile homescreen according to the month's festival ;) Oh and some of my this month faves ^_^

Favourite Weekends: General Conference

Every years in April and October, my church will have general conference where leaders of the Church will address us with spiritual talks. The conference will last for two days. I am always excited about the General Conference because it's the only time you get to hear so many uplifted messages in once, especially from the Prophet of God (he's the one in the above pic for those we are not members of my church). Believe or not, every General Conference there is always one or two particular talks that I needed so much in my life at that moment. No doubt in my mind, these are the answers to my pray. I also love how after the general conference, church members will discuss and share their feeling of their favourite talks. It is exciting because you will hear/see how the same talk means differently to different people depends of their current circumstances. Yea, this October has been a spiritual month for me because of the General Conference and Stake Conference we had.

Favourite News : Lian and Clifford is Getting Married!!

Lian and Clifford, her fiance!

Me and Lian couple years ago before she left Miri for her mission.

Big Congratulation to one of my best friends, Lian, who will tie the knot with her fiance in a couple months!!!! I would like to dedicated this particular post to them because they have come a long way. I have known Lian for nearly 7 or 8 years through the church. Couple years after I joined the church, Lian moved back to Miri for a period of time and we were not only going to the same church but worked in the same place too - Dialysis Centre in Miri. Having to work in the same place and participating in church activities had definitely helped us become closer friends. For me, she is such a smart and independent girl. When she decided to serve the Lord and spend 1 1/2 years on mission, I admired her faith and testimony. Unfortunately during the time she served her mission, I came to Australia for my education and we never get a chance to meet up for years. Thank goodness for Skype that allows us still catch up and updated our life with each other. I am truly happy that she found her happiness and ready to move into a new stage of life in a new environment. It takes courage to accept big chances in life. It's all worth it in the end Lian, at the meantime, enjoy the journey!!! *hug*

Favourite makeover reality TV shows:

I'm not sure about you guys, but I really love watching makeover show. It always strike me how after the magic touch from makeup artists, hair stylist and fashion gurus, an unattractive 'ugly duckling' transforms into a confidence swan. I love to see the process of this transformation and that's why I love watching the above two reality shows. There is a Chinese sayings: There are no ugly women (men) on earth, there are only lazy women (men) who don't put effort into beauty. I have to agree being beautiful takes up a lot of time. But it's worth it because it makes you feel confidence, it gives you courage and it makes you happy about yourself.

New Favourite Dessert Place: Eggless

When I first heard about this place from my housemate, I have been wanting to try their desserts. When I finally found the time and friends to go with me, the shop was close for a month as the owner decided to go on a month holiday. Therefore, I waited for A MONTH to try out this famous dessert place in Adelaide. The name of the shop is EGGLESS. The reason being that the owner's wife does not use egg in any of her home-made desserts. What attracted me are there Malaysian's desserts! (Yes, the shop owner is Malaysian.). Also, the menu changes every month so old/ new customers can always come back to try different types of desserts. My friends and I have to wait for about 45 min to get seated and that's how popular it is.

Favourite Change:

2 weeks ago, I discovered YesStyle which has now became my number one online shopping website other than eBay. As I went through the products lists, I came across with a few hair colouring products. Instantly I decided it's time to change my hair colour. I've been pretty much black hair entire my life, I think I need a new look. I did some research on this particular hair colouring product - palty -on yourtube and seems like a good one to go for, so I ordered the caramel-latte colour. On the day when the product arrived (together with a few other skincare products I bought as it's free shipping to buy more ^.*), I had my hair trimmed too before I DIY my hair-colouring .At first I think the hair stylist cut my hair for too short but it turned out pretty good. So, Ta-Da... my new look - short brown hair babe! (side note: on the colour product, it shows you how the colour will turned out to be according to your previous hair colour.Since my hair was darker, instead of caramel-latte, it became brown, which is what I want.)

Favourites of the Month:September

2011-09-20T04:09:00.001-07:00

Another month has gone by quick. I felt like I have done a lot, yet not achieving any particular goals of mine or something that make me feel satisfying at the end of the month. Does some of you feel this way every now and then? I feel it more often lately. Anyway, it's time to share this month's favourites~~

Favourite Qoute:

"Do something that you love, surround yourself with people you trust, learn from your mistakes, work hard, and don’t let other people’s opinions of you become your limitations."- Lauren Conrad

Favourite Day Out:

The first week of September started with celebrating Ida's birthday. It was definitely one of the best girls' day out since I came back. The day began with a late breakfast at East Terrace Continental (Mmm.. their breakfast are good.) Then we decided to do what we have been wanting to do for a while- foot spa and pedicure! Yeeeaap... my first time and loving it. Since it's not as expensive as we thought, we might go back again every now and then!! Oh did I mention about the massage chair? I didn't realize it was a massage chair until after 10 min into the foot spa when the lady doing my feet told me, which I wish she'd have told me earlier.Haha. But seriously THAT was definitely a chair to die for (Noted: need to be in my future-home-furniture shopping list). The day went on with some shoppings and afternoon dessert time at Chocolate Bean. Couldn't ask for more for a fun relaxing day.

Favourite City Fun:

One thing I like about going to city Rundle Mall on Saturday is that there are always many interesting street performances, fun business/religion promotion or cute kids entertainment to keep the mall busy and entertaining. I saw this "Wall.E" taking her little baby in an old fashion pram doing some shopping on the street. How cool was that? If I wasn't in a hurry I definitely would take a picture WITH them!

Favourite Mother-Son photo:

My dear cousin, Vicky, welcomed her baby boy, Quinton, into the world last month. My sister, Sharon, gave him the name. Wow... i can still hardly believe she is a mum now. We used to play together a lot when we were little. She being a mother makes me feel weird...erm, in a way that make me feel : wow! i'm really at that stage where life is no longer the same as it used to be. We are sooo grown up now. LOL. Before I know, maybe my sister will have a little baby too, which I'm so looking forward to be - Auntie Ivy =)

Favourite YSA Activity: Master Chief Competition

First of all, I was glad that I went to the activity even though it seems like a last minute decision for me. If you have watched Master Chief, you'll know where the activity idea from. At first I thought I'd just watch people doing the cooking/baking and i'll enjoy the food afterward. But it turned out everyone came to the activity have to participate and get sorted into different group. Tracy, Camilla, Steve and I decided to call our team "Awesome" and guess what? We won!! But really it wasn't that hard when you had two good bakers on the team a.k.a Tracy and Camilla. All we had to do was following the recipe given to us and had them done within the time limit (which no one really cared and followed ^^). The recipe given to us is Raspberry and White Chocolate Friands. I'm pretty sure I have friands before but never really know what they call until this day when I had to make them. Definitely added it into my new list of favourtie dessert! Especially with the white chocolate. Yumm... (I was really happy with the way we decorated it. We did put a lot of afford into it!!!)

Pondering Time: Are you a True Friend?

2011-09-15T18:38:00.000-07:00

Recently I have been reading this book called "How to win friends and influence people" by Dale Carnegie. I first heard about the book from my brother-in-law,Leighton, as I told him I was searching for some self-motivation/self-education books. At time I didn't pay too much attention to it because I was reading another self-motivation book. Then, I was talking to this close friend of mine, Doreen, who happened to read this book earlier and she once again recommended it to me. So I decided to rent it from the local library. Now that i'm reading it, I pay more attention to the way I treat/communicate with people and try to apply a few important keys that i've learnt into real life. I have to say reading this book doesn't necessary make me a better friend or enhance my social skills to deal with people because I'm still struggling dealing with some people around me who I would like to called "self-centred". But at least at this time (since I haven't finish the book yet), I can understand what makes two people or a few people becomes good or true friends for life!

Have you ever doubt yourself at some points of your life if you are a true friend? I know I have.

Years ago, a friend of mine was about to leave overseas for studying. Before she left she gave me this beautiful card with a friendship quote on it. It said: "Being a friend is easy when times are good or when you benefit from the relationship. But true friend sticks by your side even when things get tough. This is the kind of friend you desire. But to have one, this is also the kind of friend you must be. THE ONLY WAY TO HAVE A FRIEND IS TO BE ONE." Yes, no doubt this is a beautiful quote about friendship. And I am really grateful she chose this card for me because at the time I received this card, I was questioning myself: is she saying that i'm not being a friend that I should be by hinting me that I need to be one? Of course, I might read too much into it. However, I'm glad THAT kept me ponder and wonder (yes i'm still reminding myself til now) if I am a true friend to my friends and how can I be one if I'm not.

Funny how now that I am reading this book by Dale Carnegie learning how to be a better social person, I also tend to observe (secretly..hehe) how other people socialize. I met some new friends since I came back to Adelaide and surprisingly couple of them revealed to me they hardly have many friends they can call "good friends". So I did some behaviours/social skills observing to find out why. (I know, I know, I'm not psychologist or those smart people who analyzed personalities or bahaviours, but I'm those who like to dig deep and find out 'why it happens this way and not that way'. Okay I can sense some eye-rolling going on now. LOL.)

These are the main reasons I found with people who think they don't have many good/true friends :

1) They are not good at conversing or too shy to make the conversation first or afraid of awkwardness.

2) They are inconsistent. By this I mean not having a solid circle of friends. They may have a lot of friends but not 'good friends'.

3) They are not interested in other people's life or self-centred. So everything is about themselves and their lives. Care-less about others. Too prideful to go up to others first.

4) Insensitive and insincere - not a good listener or simply rude. Believe it or not, some people never let you finish what you want to say because back to 3) - they could't care much of what you want to say.

So there you go. Of course, these are only based on my observations so I believe there will be many other reasons out there.

I have to say in my 24 years of living, I am blessed with many good/close friends. I'm not talking about those hi-bye friend or only contact once in a blue moon. I'm talking about true friends that I could still maintain the friendship as I grow old. My secrets are simply 3Ls: Loyal, Love, Listen.

What are your secrets to make you a true friend? Have a think about it. =) xoxo

Favourites of the Month: August

2011-08-31T21:35:00.000-07:00

I know I know, although it is the first day of September and I should really post this while it's still August. Well, you see, I was gonna wait til the last few days of August to write this blog but due to some internet problem at home I couldn't post it til today.

Anyway, here are some of my August's Favourites~

Favourite Quote:

Simple theories yet not as easy to live them. Charming...

Favourite Day:

Have you ever try Backyard Sunbathe? Though it was towards the end of winter, having a nice warm day in August still a luxury wish. Therefore, when a sunny day like this arrived, I decided to read a good book AND have a sunbathe out in my backyard. I even take a quick nap. I have to say it was one of the best relaxing day ever! Well, you might ask: why don't just go to the beach since it's a nice day? Because 1) the beach is pretty far from my house 2) it's windy at the beach- the wind towards the end of winter is still quite cold.

Favourite drink:
Coconut drink is my all time favourite. I remembered growing up in Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia), one of my favourtie to-go place during weekend was the Tanjung Aru Beach. There were many small stalls selling different kind of malaysian snacks and desserts... and of course Coconut drink! My sister and I, almost every time, would ordered the coconut drink. So imaging how surprised and excited I was when I found the coconut in Woolworth(Adelaide's local supermarket) and most importantly, it's only $2.30!!! Seriously, this was the first time I saw them selling coconut in supermarket. If they are not that heavy,I would have bought 3-4 of them!

Favourite workplace machine:

My workplace just installed a new hot drink machine which normally wouldn't catch my attention. This is because I don't drink coffee and drinks machine normally have all kind of coffee you can think of but not hot chocolate(like our old drinks machine), which is the only few hot drinks I get. However, this particular one has HOT CHOCOLATE! Now staff room becomes my favourite place to go because of this lovely machine.

Favourite YSA night:
It's our ward YSA Family Home Evening (FHE) night at The Scotts house. For non-Mormon, FHE is a weekly family night, normally on Monday, where family members will do something together. It is a time for family, to help family members become closer to each other and to God. However, since some of us who are single and doesn't have a family here, the Scotts will normally organized a fortnightly /monthly YSA FHE at their house. The games or activities we do in FHE are always spiritually orientated and good principles that allow us to apply in lives.

Favourite exercise:

Pop Pilates videos by Cassey are my recent preference when it comes to choices of pilates guru. She has filmed many different pilates-related videos on Youtube so if you're like me- pilates fan- then check them out. PS: I like how she uses pop songs with all the moves.

# Leap of Faith #

2011-08-24T22:57:00.001-07:00

So, I had been watching this reality show- The Bachelorette season 7- last couple of weeks (side note: This was the only season that I follow, so no, I haven't been watching other Bachelorette season if you wonder). One of my favourite scenes in the show was Ashley Hebert first 1-on-1 date with JP (her fiance now). When Ashley questioned JP about his previous relationships and wonder how does she knows if he wont break her heart? And JP said: "Well you don't. You take a leap of faith, you get hurt; but time heals all, you move on, things get put into perspective, and eventually you met someone amazing and things change."That conversation really stuck in my head throughout the whole season of the show and even now, that particular 'leap of faith' keep me thinking, thus for this blog entry.

I'm sure at some point of our lives, we have all experienced that when something happens - fail marriage, fail family relationship, fail education, fail career or death of the loved one - that take our confidence and dignity away. It may seems devastating at time but having that 'leap of faith' in our heart is so important. It may be the only thing that keep us moving/living on in the most depressing period, hoping it can only be better from now on.

I have a friend who is getting married but because of the history of her parents, she is afraid that it might be the wrong commitment to take, afraid things will change after married. Another friend of mine, broke up with her boyfriend but she is afraid to let it go. She feels miserable, thinking she may never move on. To these two friends if you are reading this post, a leap of faith is what you need now. No one know what will happen after you get married or move on from the past.But it is a turning point for you! Because you know for sure it will never get better if you don't move at where you are standing right now.

PS: Do you have a leap of faith like this penguin?Not sure why but somehow the picture crack me up!!! LOL

Favourites of the Month : July

2011-07-29T22:11:00.000-07:00

When I started out this blog back in March, I was thinking how long will it take for me to neglect my blog and eventually stop blogging like I did with the 3 previous blogs I had. The reasons being I'm not a very good writer and it takes up a lot of my time just to blog something. Also I found that not many people care to read other's blog anymore these days, especially with social networks like Facebook, Twitter, and Google + being so popular, family and friends can easily find out what's going on in my life. But since I am very determined that this will be my last and only blog, I committed myself to at least have a blog entries every month just to sum up things that happened around me for the month. So the best way for me to do this is to choose all the things that I like or come across with in the month and share them in my blog. I called it my Favourites of the Month!

~Here are my Favourites of July~

Favourite Movie:

I can only think of words like: AWESOME! FANTASTIC! THE BEST! BRILLIANT! for the Harry Potter's last movie. My friends and I planned to go to the movie's premiere weeks before the movie came out. Then we thought why not dressing up as the movie characters to add some fun into the whole thing? So, I started 'googling' pictures of the characters in the movie and decided to dress up as Hermione Granger in Hogwarts uniform (I bought the Griffindor's tie from eBay which only costs me a few dollars including shipping fee). At first we were worrying that we would be the only people who dress up. But of course, we worried too much! Almost everyone who went to the movie that night dressed up. We saw lots of Harry Potter, some Hermione, Bellatrix, Lucius and Draco Malfoy, Tonks in purple hair, and other death eaters. It was like a dress up party. One of my best experience in Adelaide I have to say. Kinda sad that the whole Harry Potter's movie has come to an end. I'm looking forward to the final movie's DVD comes out in the next few months so I can buy the whole 8 DVDs as collection.

Favourite YSA activity:
In church, Young Single Adults always have many activities going on every month: cottage evening, family home evening,YSA temple night, YSA firesides, YSA dance, YSA monthly activity so on and so on. This month, there was an annual YSA winter ball which I decided to go to after being a bit less active in YSA activities for the past couple months (And thanks to Camilla for being persistently invited me the ball.) The theme of the winter ball this year was Hollywood. So the whole cultural hall in the chapel turned into a big movie festival setting with red carpet from the entrance, 2 big theater screens playing different movies' trailers continuously, waiters (church members) serving fingers food every now and then. My friends and I danced for couple hours til 1am before the party came to an end (ps: got sore legs for the next whole day). The party was just too good to be missed. I'm glad that I went and get to know a few new friends and just parteyyy!!

Favourite Changes:
As some of you can tell, the changes here is my hair. I had it cut both at the back and front 2 weeks ago. I love the feeling of freshness every time I had my haircut. It somehow enhances the confidence in a person after getting a new haircut. Maybe sometimes in life all we need is just one little changes every now and then to make us feel that life isn't as monotonous as we think.

Favourtie Book:
Personally I think all women (or maybe men as well) should own a copy of this book. I found this book on 60% sales in a local bookstore which was closing down. It is written by 4 women in America who have been through many different life challenges and tragic. They formed a 'kitchen table' groups called Women in Transition (WIT) and meet monthly at one of the women's kitchen table to talk about trials they faced in lives, share news, encouraged each other and give inspiring suggestions. The books records some of the ways/solutions they learnt or used to help them get through the hardest time in lives. Their stories help me to believe that there is always light at the end of the tunnel.

Favourite Drink:

Have you ever have yogurt that you can only have a few spoonful because it's too creamy that make you feel sick? I introduced you self-made Yogurt Boost! My friend, Michelle, make this for me when I went to her house the other day. All you need to do is to mix 1/2 glass of yogurt with 1/2 (or lesser) glass of juice. The juice make the yogurt less creamy and I can drink it again and again without feeling sick of it. Try it, it's easy and it's healthy!!

Winter Winter~

2011-06-24T17:29:00.000-07:00

I admit that I am a tropical country girl. Many of the Asian students that I met loveeee winter but winter in Australia (Adelaide in particular) is my worst nightmare. Reasons? Yes, heaps!

I'm not too sure how's the heating system in other countries that have winter, but in Australia, apart from companies or shops or shopping malls or hospital (maybe school), there is no central heating system in the houses. They mostly use reverse cycle air conditioner that only install in certain rooms like living room and bedrooms. Some houses (like the one I rent) only have cooling air conditioner for the summer. So I either bundle up myself in layers of jumpers and scarf or buy myself a small portable heater that can only feel the heat when I'm very close to it. (However, choosing the later option will shock you when the electricity comes in the end of the winter. )

My diet change when winter comes. Back in Malaysia or during summer in Australia, I don't really feel like to buy chocolate, cheesecake, banana cake, creamcheese bun... and I don't eat as much. When winter comes, I can eat anything just to keep myself warm. Worse part is chocolate and many other sweets are often on sales in the supermarket during winter (3 packages of Tim Tam for $5!!?). This is why I don't really like to take picture in winter because I get chubby in winter. I know maybe you'll think why don't you just go to gym or do exercise.. here's my next point: Motivation to do exercise in cold weather is low, at least for me. All I wanted to do by the time I reach home from work is to take a hot shower, bundle up in nice warm winter clothes and blanket and don't wanna move at all!! I even hate going to toilet during winter because I have to take my pants off and sit of the cold toilet seat. Hehe...

The rain is gloom and sunshine is happiness. Raining cold winter really effect my mood. After I came to Australia, I can understand why those'white people' love to sit or lay under the sun so much. It doesn't only warm you up, the vitamin D really boots up the mood. (side note: I don't recommend sitting in the bright hot sun at noon time like some of the people do here because that will hasten skin aging.) And yea, every winter I wonder how did I survive the last winter!!!

Anyway, i'm done with complaining about the cold since I can't do anything about it now. Moving to a warmer cities or countries that has better heating system is in my future planning for sure.

Scarf, beanie, gloves,socks and electric hot water bag are the must-have when I'm bed to prevent me from waking up in the middle of night due to coldness!

What can be more enjoyable than soaking your cold feet in nice hot water? One of my favourite to-do thing in winter.

Changing for better?

2011-06-06T05:52:00.000-07:00

"Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change" ~Jim Rohn~.

I am the kind of person that when I'm comfortable with my current situation, I hope I stay like that as long as possible. Because I'm afraid of changing. I fear that I will regret for changing. Yes, in a way, I guess I don't like to take risks. However, my life recently has been all about getting use to 'changing'. Moving into a new place, looking for a new job, perhaps waiting for a new relationship and...moving into a new Church's ward.

Maybe some people won't think that moving to a new ward is that big of deal, but to me it is. When I first came to Australia, I know nobody. Members from Morialta Ward are like my family. I see them almost every Sunday for the past 4 years. I can really say that I grow up with them all these years I'm in Adelaide. Leaving the ward is like living my second home. When the Bishop told me that I need to attend Church service in Firle Ward (since my house was in Firle ward's boundary) next week, few options popped into my mind. First, I do as what I have been told. Second, I ignored what I've been told and continue attending my current ward (Morialta Ward). Third, I move back into Morialta Ward's boundary then I can stay in ward. Lastly, become less active. Well of course, knowing me, I choose my first (also the only) option - into Firle Ward. I suppose I'll have to challenge the quote from Jim Rohn to see if life really does gets better by CHANGE.

Roses and Card from the Primary Presidency and kids that I taught as I served as Primary Sunday School teacher (best calling ever!!!)

They help me realised how precious little kids are^^

My Gratitude for Life

2011-05-21T22:23:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine has been sharing with me her gratitude journal since last month. Almost everyday I received her email/journal about the things she was grateful for each day. It wasn't something long but little simple happening in her life that she think she should be grateful for. Not only it is an enjoyment reading about what is going on in her life, but most importantly her gratitude journal helps me to appreciate and be grateful for things that I haven't been feeling grateful before. So everyday, like her, I will try to find something that I can appreciate and be grateful for. Even just a little thing such as watch a good movie, talk to my family member or hang out with friends, thankful there is a supermarket close to my house so I can easily get my grocery done, read some good books... Little things like that help me to feel happier each day and try to look at thing in a positive manner.

There are 3 main things that I am especially grateful for in my life now:

First, my relationship with God: Everyone of us does different thing to strengthen our spiritual aspect. Mine is having the gospel of Jesus Christ. The teachings of the gospel help me to feel closer to Heavenly Father and when I apply those teachings in my life, I am happy.

Most people who knows me know that I am a Mormon (if you haven't already know that, it simply means I'm a Christian!!). I was 13 when I first joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and will forever grateful for making that decision to be baptised into the church. Some of my friends might think that I am VERY religious but I think I simply want to feel closer to my Heavenly Father. If God's counsels are to help me to become a better person and know the purpose of earthly life, why wouldn't I choose to follow him? I once heard a story of a patriot who was forced to deny what he believed to be true and worth fight for, or he will be killed. He replied: What does it matter to be living without having a belief. I have to agree with that. Think about it, when you really believe and know one thing to be true, will you not try to stand for what you believe(regardless it is a religion or something good!) I am truly grateful to have the knowledge of eternal truth and know that I am a daughter of God, and He loves me unconditionally.

Second, my family and friends: I LOVE my family so much. Though I grow up in a single parent family, I never feel lesser loves from both my parents. They provided me most things as much as they could. What continue to bond them as friends are the love they have for their daughters. Being so far away from my family all these years help me to appreciate them more. Especially being a church member, I know how important it is to have a strong bond with family. So I always try to call home every week to share news and listen to their lives. Since my sister is living in United State and we don't do calling very much, I will read her blog, twitter, facebook or Whatapps her just to make sure we are in touch and know what's going on with each other life (side note: I am sooooo grateful for having all these new technology to help making communication so much easier). Same thing goes to my closer friends. I skype/fb msg/email/Whatapps with them if they are not in the same city. If they are, we make sure to meet up if not every week then fortnightly. I've learned that all kind of relationship can be very fragile if we don't make an effort to take care of it. Therefore, I try my very effort to maintain a closer and good relationship because I love and cherish them in my life.

Third, the ability to love myself and life: There is a saying goes around: When you don't get love from others, that is the time when you need to love yourself more. I can honestly tell myself to be grateful for the past relationship I had, because I learn to be stronger and love myself more when it didn't turn out the way it should. For the past couple of months, I was trying to figure out what I need to do with my life or what that I really want from life. Then it slowly comes to me : Love yourself and live each day with a simple and content heart. When I said 'content' I don't mean I stop improving myself or looking for a better job. I am still enriching my knowledge by reading different news, articles... I am seeking for opportunity for a better career. What I mean is to feel pleased with how your day turn out to be. If it was a bad day, then do something that will make it a little better like treat yourself for a nice meal, buy that little thing you have been wanting for a long time, get on your phone/fb/msn to talk with your favourite friends or love one, or (don't feel like to talk?) good movies, books.... anything that you can think of to turn the day around. There got to be something that will make you happy!!!

Well, here are some of the things that I am grateful for in my life. What's yours? If you haven't look at life in a grateful way, start now and you will realise there are so many things you can be thankful for. And, you will feel happier with your life.

Reading a book while enjoying the sunlight in my backyard on a beautiful morning =)

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-07T03:26:00.000-07:00

Would like to dedicate this blog entry to my Beloved Mother:

Being a single mum is not easy,

but proudly, she managed to raise us (me and Sharon) into fine young women.

With barely enough incomes,

she is always able to provide us more than enough.

Knowing lives out in the world are full of trials,

she is always there to encourage and support.

Believing knowledge is precious and powerful,

she allowed us to further our studies with no regret.

She knows everything she does/did for us aren't/weren't easy,

but she knows, she knows they are worth it.

She is my precious Mama whom I will forever love and...forever owe.

Happy Beautiful Mother's Day!!

A meaningful Easter Holidays

2011-04-25T06:11:00.000-07:00

St John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

What can be more rewarding than sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ during Easter celebration? I was invited by the sister missionaries to teach the gospel with them to this 62 year old man they met earlier this week. It was a pleasure to teach him because he is just so keen and so ready to accept the gospel. He was amazed by what we shared with him and eager to learn more. I was so thankful for this opportunity to do some missionary works, especially on Easter as it is about the Atonement and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. It always helps me to feel closer to God and grateful to have the testimony of the true gospel in my life.Seeing the joy on this elderly face when learning the fullness of the gospel reminded me the day when I truly accepted Jesus Christ into my life. Knowing that no matter how bad things turn out to be, as long as I have my trust in him, he will watch over me. My heart goes out to those we haven't yet heard about the gospel and those who have the chance but turned down the gospel, because they do not know the real purpose of life. This also make me realised how important to share the gospel with anyone who is willing to listen and invite them to Come unto Christ.

I am looking forward to his baptism day^^

Happy Anniversary to S+ L

2011-04-15T08:27:00.001-07:00

I would like to dedicate this blog post to my lovely sister,Sharon and awesome brother-in-law, Leighton. Two years ago today, Sharon and Leighton tied the knot in Bountiful Temple. It was one of the most beautiful day in my life as my only sister was married to her soul mate for TIME AND ETERNITY. It was the day her 'happily ever after' life begin. It was the day which I would still love to tell people about how amazing it wasn't snowing at all that morning when we entered the temple and 2 hours later, everything was white outside- snowing in the mid-April. Sharon's wish for a winter wedding was granted. For me, I see that as a wedding gift from God to Sharon.

Sharon has always been my favourite sister (of course, she is my only sister. LOL) and one of my best friends. When she told me she was getting married, I felt happy for her and sad for myself. Haha. Because I knew she gonna live in another country far away and we won't be able to go shopping together or heart-to heart-talk all night long till we fall asleep. Most importantly, there would be a man in her life forever!!! But I'm glad that this man is Leighton. I couldn't think of any other guy better than him in her life. HE is the one for HER. I know it has been 2 years but WELCOME to the family again, Leighton!!!

Happy Anniversary Sharon and Leighton!!!

Beautiful wedding 2 years ago...

...still so in love everywhere they go.

Touchdown in Adelaide

2011-04-13T20:12:00.000-07:00

14th of April...

6.15pm...

After leaving Adelaide for 4 months for my 'post-grad rest period ' , I am back to this small city this morning. Once came out from the airport, the cool breeze immediately reminded me that the coldness in Adelaide is on my least favourite lists. I remembered 4 years ago, about the same time, I came to this quiet and relaxing town (okay,maybe a little boring) with a few high school graduates girls. We were all excited and so ready to experience the new Aussie adventures life. Four years were not a long time, but long enough to see many chances in life, like half of my cousins were married (including my only sister) and have kids. I suddenly become an Aunt to so many nieces and nephews. It was weird but I enjoyed being around with all these little cuties. Four years were long enough helping me to realise that relationships of all kind are fragile and easily break if we don't make sure we make effort to take good care of them. And certainly long enough to teach me looked at life from many different perspectives.

I don't know how much I have changed in the past 4 years (not physically for sure since quite a few people told me I still look the same and yes, I do wonder what is 'the same' means? still young-looking? still nerdy look? still plain jane look?), but I know I don't feel like that what-is-the-world-out-there-look-like-20 years old girl any more. Now I am more like the what-is-my-future-holds-for-me girl who is confused if I am making the right decision of coming back here. I have doubt. But it is also the 'doubt' that allows me to put my guts together and come back here to give another shot. After all, I never know until I try. I need to turn all the negatives feelings I received recently into willpower. Time to act!!

Quiet Adelaide early in the morning

Fairy Tales can be Real?

2011-03-22T20:59:00.000-07:00

Few days ago, I reread a talk by one of my church leader, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, titled "Your Happily Ever After". I have read this talk so many times that I lost count. Yes it is this great (At least for me ^^). It is one of those talks that makes me feel inspired, motivated and hopeful every time after reading it.

I always wonder how many girls don't like a 'happily ever after' fairy tale story happen in their lives? I know for sure I DO. Some of you may think: oh come on, wake up, this is real life so stop living in your own fairy tale's world. But hey, we ARE living in our own fairy tales and each has different to tell. We may be living in a real world and watching all these Disney fairytales cartoons created by the writers in the 'Real World' but the concepts of life are no different from those fairy tales. We are the heroes or heroin in our own stories. We experience the adversities and adventures of lives. And hopefully at the end, we live with our loves one happily ever after. So, how can fairy tale not real when we are living in it? ^.*

In the talk, President Uchtdorf mentioned something that I have never thought about it before:

"For a moment, think back about your favorite fairy tale. In that story the main character may be a princess or a peasant; she might be a mermaid or a milkmaid, a ruler or a servant. You will find one thing all have in common: they must overcome adversity."

I was awakened by what he said. Well, not really awakened from wishing that I live in a fairy tale since I still want that, but awakened from thinking that all these heroines or princesses in the story always get what they want without hardships. But obviously I was wrong! I have neglected their courage and determination to strive for their dreams. Instead, I was only entranced with the romance of the story. I know now that the true beauty of life are to create experiences, take up good opportunities, fight the trials with courage, triumph over adversity and simply enjoy the journey towards my 'happily ever after'.

My all time favourite disney princess.

My new favourite disney cartoon.

PS: If you wanna read this great article too, here's the link: http://lds.org/general-conference/2010/04/your-happily-ever-after?lang=eng&query=life+become+fairy+tales

Come What May

2011-03-07T06:02:00.000-08:00

I was talking to a friend regarding our concerns on the nursing registration and I told her that i'm done with worrying too much about it. Whatever come, I'll just accept the fact as long as I know that I have try my best. If the result is not what I expected, then find a solution or alternative way to deal with it. I also mentioned to her that sometimes things come to us when we least expecting them. Well, guess what? Few hours after I told her this, I received an email from AHPRA congratulated me on the approval of my registration to be a nurse and my friend, Ida confirmed that after checking on the AHPRA website for me!! Wow... praise the Lord~ Many have told me that it will take at least 1 or 2 months after the submission of my application to nurses board. I never think that I will hear from the board for another month or so because it has only been 3 weeks since I sent in my application. I would never think this will happen so... erm.. soon?! I know I was suppose to be happy right now that I got my registration. But it also means that I need to leave Malaysia soon. There I was, all ready to stay for at least another 2 months and hoping to hang out with my sister and her husband when they come back for holidays in May. Now, I will need get my arse back to Australia to find a job soon. Hmm.. am I ready for that? Sometimes, when things that we wish for do come to us at the time we least expecting them, we might not be ready to accept them because we have already go with Plan B.

Oh~ life does take an unexpected turn occasionally doesn't it?!

One of the Great Persons who has influenced my life.

2011-03-04T23:53:00.000-08:00

http://devotional.byuh.edu/video110301

Today I watched a video clip that I must post it on my blog so that I can always come back to watch it. It was a talk given by Robert E.Quinn at the devotional at BYU-H last week. I personally know Pre. Quinn when he was serving in Australia Adelaide Mission about 2 years ago. I cannot tell you how much I love him and his wife (Sister Quinn is superb!!!). Every time Pre.Quinn gave his brief testimony or comment at the end of Missionary Firesides, I could feel the spirit and had ALWAYS learn something new from his teachings that I can apply in my life. They were simple yet powerful. He is just amazing. As I listened to his talk once again this afternoon, I know some of them are the answers I have been looking for.

The three words...

2011-03-03T02:05:00.000-08:00

I DON’T KNOW -- I have been saying these three words a lot lately. I think that is because I get a lot of questions like:

“When are you going back to Australia?”… “I don’t know.”

“When are they gonna let you know if your application is approved?”… “I don’t know.”

“Are you going to find a job while you’re waiting?”… “I don’t know.”

“What are you going to do now if you don’t get what you are waiting for?”… “I don’t know.”

“Do you wanna go back to Australia?”… “I don’t know.”

I kinda hate these three words now. They make me feel uncertain about my future and I don’t like this feeling.

I used to be a very organize person that drive people crazy because I always want to plan ahead. And if things don’t go the way I planned, I get upset and discourage. And I will try everything to make sure they turn out the way I want them to be, which sometimes make others unhappy. Then, I had have a few experiences that change my view of being overly plan and organized. These unexpected experiences make me realized that sometimes no matter how hard you try, things just doesn’t work out the way you want them to be. And yes, being too controlling and organized are exhausting. I learnt that I need to let go and accept it when things turn the other way. Life does need spontaneity in some ways and that will make life less stressful. However, I have taken this going-with-the –flow attitude to an extreme way that it seems like my life is all over the place. I stop planning; I stop being organized and stop taking control over my life. I just let it be.

I cannot let it be anymore. My life is a mess. I need my plans and my goals back! I’m working on them now. Don’t worry, I won’t take it to the extreme and become that overly-plan me again. I will make sure I do my very best to achieve my goals and the rest leave it to the Lord. I’ll let you guys know when my plans and goals brings me some good news. (My teacher used to tell me bad things come with three, I got two already, so maybe one left?)

I love this script from Black Swan: “Perfection is not always about control, sometimes it’s about letting go.”

I'm back!!

2011-03-01T01:30:00.000-08:00

Yay.. it seems like i'm back in the blogging mood again~

Well, since you're reading this, needless to say I'm starting my new blog. Thanks to my awesome brother-in-law, Leighton, who helped to create this website that belongs to ME! See the name of my website? It is www.ivyting.com , not www.ivyting.blogspot.com!!!!

Anyway~I haven't been writing blog for almost a year due to some reasons.

Erm...it will definitely take me forever to tell you about my life over the past year so i'm not going to talk about it, neither do I feel that is necessary for me to do so. All I can say about last year is that it was a 'full-on' year and had surely exhausted me. I am back to single life, have graduated and am currently jobless. Life is pretty enjoyable since I took off to United States for 5 weeks right after my graduation ceremony. Then I came back to Malaysia for Chinese New Year!!! Life is great when I am relaxing and recharging. However, I think it's time for me to come back to the real world, find some new goals in this whole new year and work hard to achieve them. Surely hope I can figure them out soon because the clock is ticking while i'm wasting time here.