A Time For Celebrations.........

The beautiful decorations of all Shopping Malls really reminds me that Christmas is just round the corner.......... I consider this as the best time of the year as it is a season of Love, Hope, Joy, Peace, Good Tidings, Merriment, Happiness & Togetherness.

It also triggers me that........ it's time for Christmas Songs & Carols to be played....... As this type of songs are only played during this season of the year, so....... I'll always make it a point to start listening to them by mid November. Some might say it's too early, but who cares???? The ones played in shopping malls are even much earlier!!!

To recall....... my family have the best Christmas last year, with friends & relatives coming over for our 'open house'. Here are some memories to recap.........

Our 5-Feet Decorated Christmas Tree..........

Building Strong Family Ties [Part 5]

Passing on Traditions

Some of the strongest bonds in many families are passed on from generation to generation as a result of cultural heritages from the land of their ancestry. Those customs often retain cultural tastes in food, dress, dance and even in professions.

Another passing on of custom can be that of a trade or profession. Throughout most of history, children learned the trade of their fathers that had in turn been learned from their fathers.

Because many modern societies have given up such practices altogether, crafts that have endured for centuries are being lost.

Even if a youngster does not wish to follow in his father's footsteps, if a trade, craft or profession has been learned, he will have something to fall back on.

It's amazing today how few boys do any household jobs, paint or mend things, change the oil or tune up the car. Only a small number of girls know how to sew, quilt or even cook for the matter.

You see, in order to learn many of these skills, you have to spend time with your father or mother or with grandparents.

Since most of us are not living on a farm, we don't know how to plant, cultivate, harvest, can, bottle or freeze vegetables and fruits. Even if many families wanted to have a vegetable garden, they wouldn't know how to. Yet many middle-aged parents have known how to plant a garden--and almost every grandparent had one; probably grew up on a farm or in the country. Why haven't we passed on these fun and useful skills?

If you have not learned any skills that should have been perpetuated in your family, why not take a little time to backtrack and learn from your father or mother in order to pass them on to your son or daughter?

Building New Traditions

Maybe you are part of a family that just does not have a long family history. Perhaps you have no knowledge of your ancestry or even of a craft of your parents.

But that should not stop you from establishing bonds in your family now. Actually, whether you have realised it or not, there are really only two courses of action to take. Either build meaningful and lasting traditions in your family, or drift into nontraditions that will cause your family to split farther and farther apart from one another.

Why not sit down this evening and talk over what kind of relationships will best benefit your family? Get out the old picture album. Recall Granddad and Grandma--even your great-grandparents. Maybe you'll bring up some long lost part of your family past that your children have never even heard before.

Then talk about what kind of new customs you would like to incorporate into your family. Some of the most meaningful family experiences can be worked around vacation. Perhaps visiting national parks, or taking up camping, fishing or other outdoor activities, will be something your family can enjoy.

One of the best ways to spend vacation time is to hold regular family reunions such as have been mentioned earlier.

So whether you decide on special vacation trips, outdoor camp-outs, dinners or nothing more than a quiet afternoon in your own back-yard, make up your mind to build strong family bonds. You'll always be glad you did. Not only will it pull your family together as a team now, but someday your grandchildren will thank you for establishing family bonds that will be passed on to their children and to generations yet to come.

So...... how's the article friends???? Hope it will really helps us and our families as well as the generations yet to come to preserve strong family ties. I belief that we can still get together with our family, though not as specifically mentioned above by the author, but on the other way round........ For example, instead of getting all the children to come home for holiday at the parent's home (which is the children's home town) , why not gather at one of the children's place instead, off course depending on which is more economical and convenient to all. As we all know that most children today will be studying or working in another city, where there are better jobs opportunities than being with their parents at their home town. Another situation will be, going off for a holiday at an agreed destination or spot, where all will meet and have an enjoyable family vacation together. Then, once a year (maybe during the New Year festivals) the children can plan to come home to celebrate this grand festival with the rest of the other family members, such as Uncles, Aunties, Grandparents, Cousins, Niece, Nephews, and off course their 'long time no see - friends!' See....... it can be done right???

Dear friends, everything is possible if we really put our mind into it!! Remember, this week is "Family Week", so...... have an enjoyable week with your family and continue to "Build Strong Family Ties" within your family.......... God Bless You All!!

Building Strong Family Ties [Part 4]

Dinner Together

Today everyone seems to be so busy. All the members of the family are involved in so many activities. With school, work, play and television--is it any wonder members of a family can seldom be together at the same time?

Usually there is only one occasion during the day when the entire family is in one place at one time. This is the evening meal. And this mealtime at least ought to be family time. But what do we see? A trend toward the no-cook-eat-infront-of-the-television idea. City boulevards are ablaze with signs beckoning the customer to stop in and carry out a quick, already prepared meal. Society seems geared to the eat-on-the-run syndrome. Snack shops, sandwich stands, drive-in restaurants have greatly proliferated.

People in today's fast-moving society grow up without any importance being placed on family dinner. Yet in many countries and among certain ethnic groups it is considered essential that all the family be seated at the dinner table together. Here a meal represents far more than just food and nutrition to the body. It is a time for family communion--fellowship, conversation and enjoyment.

Is it this way in your home? Do you have each and every member of your family gathered together at least for the evening meal? This seems like such a simple thing, but it has great importance. Why pass up the opportunity to gather your entire family--the most beloved people to you--around you in an atmosphere of love?

The sharing of food has always connoted the sharing of love. Sharing food together is a sure way to increase the bonds between people.

And remember: It is important to make sure the conversation at the table is pleasant--no bickering, arguments, unpleasant topics or controversial matters. Mealtime should be a pleasant experience filled with goodwill. This promotes family closeness and love.

Building Strong Family Ties [Part 3]

Being a family

In this hectic society it seems there is little time for simple yet meaningful occasions like dinner with the grandparents or a family reunion. And because we haven't taken the time for such things, the glue that holds families together doesn't hold firm.

It's time to revive some old-fashioned values and build more permanent family ties. It might just save your family.

Let's take for example the old custom of gathering the whole family together on a weekend afternoon for a big meal. If you ever had such wonderful dinners in your family, you can almost taste the delicious meals still. And who could ever forget the fun of playing outside with your cousins and neighborhood children while your parents sat and talked for hours?

If that has been a part of your life you cannot forget it. But why is it gone today? Doesn't anyone care anymore? And why can't you start or reinstate such family get-together customs now? Well, you can.

Of course, if the grandparents live hundreds or thousands of miles away, you can't have dinner together frequently. But if they are nearby, you can certainly make it a fairly regular practice. Even if they are a great distance away, all is not lost.

Another great old-fashioned tradition used to be getting the extended family--the entire family: the brothers and sisters and all the cousins--together once a year or every other year. There is nothing like it.

In today's world, many like in very mobile societies where people move often. Sometimes these moves are hundreds or sometimes thousands of miles. When such moves happen, the children grow up without any sense of stability.

This separating of families has created a whole generation who don't know "who they are." When you grow up under the influence of your parents and your grandparents, there is little doubt of who you are. If you have a quick temper as your grandfather did, you'll know it if you saw him yell at the cow when she kicked over the pail. If you have a fine voice for singing, you well may have inherited it from your grandmother. If you heard her singing lullabies, you will know for sure where you got your voice.

The knowledge of one's family heritage seems to be missing in so many families today. Grandpa may have been forced into early retirement while he still had years of productivity left in him. Perhaps he died prematurely from the lack of purpose and inactivity. Like as not Grandma was put into a rest home to rock away her final years of life in boredom. What a tragedy! And all the time they could have helped so much.

Don't let the opportunity for your children to know and love their grandparents go by. Plan a family reunion as soon as it is practical. If the grandparents are not living, make it a practice to visit the cemetery where they are buried. Tell the children stories about their grandparents and the "good old days.". You'll be surprised at the greater sense of identity it gives them.

Instead of positive traditions, do you know what families in today's society have? Nontraditions. What are nontraditions? Let me give you an example:

The typical Western breakfast. Years ago when societies are mainly agrarian, breakfast was quite an affair. The entire family sat around the table . Mom prepared a hearty meal of cooked cereal, toast from homemade bread, fresh fruit, scrambled eggs and a hamburger patty. Dad outlined the day's chores. That was a tradition.

A nontradition is quite the opposite. Today, Dad probably grouches his way through the morning preparing to fight the traffic jams. He may or may not bolt down a cup of coffee and a piece of toast. Where's Mom? She may have a job of her own and hurries through the blow dryer and hair curlers to be ready for her ride to work.

And the children? Left to themselves, they take the easy way out and gobble down a bowl of pre-sweetened cold cereal. That's breakfast. That's hardly conducive to the kind of bonds that build strong family ties.

And lunch these days is no memorable occasion either. It is usually eaten by each member of the family separately. Dad eats lunch on the job. The children eat lunch at school. And Mon perhaps at home with the babies or at work.

That's what we mean by a non-tradition. Nothing of lasting value comes out of this life-style. There is nothing here to pass on to the next generation. No positive family relationships are built.

Building Strong Family Ties [Part 2]

Controlling Youthful Energy

One of the greatest problems in any society is the harnessing of the energy and vitality of its youth. It is also one of the greatest difficulties of parenthood!

"Johnny! Please sit still! Stop jerking and jiggling!" shouts the exasperated mother of a 10-year-old. "What's the matter?" she fumes. "Can't you ever be still and quiet?"

Parents have been saying things like that for centuries. Virtually all "normal" children are bundles of pent-up, explosive energy. And that energy must be released! When it is bottled up, suppressed and thwarted, it builds up incredible pressures in children. The longer energy is suppressed the more frustrated the child becomes.

Have you ever experienced this? You are driving along the freeway or the motorway. It's an extended trip of several hours. There are few stops except for gasoline or "rest" stops. The faces of the children in the backseat may be seen in the rearview mirror as they sit, squirm, struggle, wrestle, tussel, tug and pull away at each other.

The longer they have to sit there, the worse their attitudes will become. Sometimes they will fall asleep in sheer frustration. They may keep saying, "When are we going to get there, Daddy?" "How much longer?" "I have to go to the bathroom." (He just went 15 minutes earlier!)

The longer this agitation continues, the more irritable the parents become. After all, they would like a nice quiet, relaxing trip!

Before long an explosion takes place. "Will you kids shut up!! Just sit still and be quiet! We'll get there when we get there and I don't want to hear any more about it!". Sulk. Pout. Fume. Resent. The atmosphere in the car has degenerated considerably since the trip began. Why?

Simply because the parents did not understand, nor know how to cope with the factor of their children's energy! It's a law of nature--energy must be released. It must be burned up, utilized.

Yet children often lack the wisdom to know how to rightly utilize their own vast energy reserves. We are told that children left to their own devices, often use their energy in a destructive manner.

This is one of the principal reasons why children cooped up and left alone in a big-city environment often resort to acts of violence and vandalism. Children cut loose from the warm and creative environment of a close and loving family unit frequently become youthful vagrants prowling the streets and alleys of cities looking for destructive outlets for those pent-up energies. Such neglect on the part of parents is one of the key factors involved in the formation of adolescent street gangs.

A child should never be cut totally adrift from his family unit. He should be able to find expression within it. He should never be left exclusively to his or her own devices during those formative years. (This is not to say a child should not be taught independence, self-reliance and responsibility.) Parents must strive to understand their child's need for constant activity and provide ways for the release of that energy.

Family outings, sports activities, hikes, camp-outs, musical endeavors, building projects, hobbies, wrestling matches with Dad, walks and runs, jogging as a family, exercising together are all invaluable and constructive outlets that can be shared by all of the family.

Children should be taught and encouraged to "think family." Ideally, the family environment should be the most enjoyable place for a child to be. It should be the most interesting, the most satisfying.

A child who cannot find satisfaction and activity within his family unit will seek it elsewhere. Responsible, perceptive parents will recognize this need and seriously strive to provide the right kind of exciting, interest-filled environment for their children. Granted, it takes time and planning. But it pays off.

Building Strong Family Ties [Part 1]

As this week is "Family Week", I would like to share an article which I feel that all must get to read it, in the hope that it will help to build strong family ties, especially in this modern world today.

We can't deny that most parents are spending less time with their children, as they are occupied with their career, thus their children are always being put in the care of domestic helpers, grandparents or day care centers. So, enjoy reading and hope you are all able to get some useful tips from it.

TODAY the reality of a generation gap stares society in the face. Many parents frankly confess that they do not know their own children. They are like strangers. And this gap seems to have happened overnight.

Parents may appear to be close to their children when they are small. But with the advent of teenage something tragic happens. Communication breaks down. Alienation begins. Thus a generation of children has commonly become at odds with its own parents! Why?

Examine you own situation. When does your whole family -- every member --get together and talk--really have a good conversation and family communication? Chances are--seldom, if ever.

Many parents today really do try to provide the best for their children. They want to give them happiness and security. They consequently spend their time and energy in the acquisition of material possessions. Little time or energy, however, is spent to provide for the family's spiritual and emotional needs.

Do you know why children are so inclined to learn from television, whether for good or for bad? Because a television set is never too busy to talk to children. It never brushes them aside while it does household chores or becomes involved in other pursuits. Television programming goes to considerable lengths to attract and hold the attention of youngsters. And it succeeds!

Meanwhile many fathers and mothers spend a minimum amount of time and effort maintaining direct contact with their children. And then they wonder why their children do not turn out as they would like them to.

Where were you when your son's class at school had its open house? Or when your daughter's dance team won the trophy?

Were you just too busy to be there? Was the extra money earned by working overtime that important? Did you really have to clean the oven? A few less dollars and a few specks of dirt at home, is a small price to pay toward an investment in one of your greatest treasures--your children.

If you've been negligent in involving yourself with your children, changing that relationship many not be accomplished overnight, but with diligence and patience it can be done. It must be done. You would be surprised how many young people today are deeply yearning for a closer relationship with their parents.

A week for all family........

23rd to 29th November is "Family Week"! It is the best time to spend cherish moments of joys and happiness with our family members; sharing great time with each other and making it a memorable week!!

However, for those family members who are away from home, I belief that none will be miss out as it is the thoughts that matters. It is like a Malay saying "Jauh di mata, dekat di hati" meaning "Far at sight (in the eyes) but near at heart".

So, on this Family Week, I would like to pray for God's special blessings upon each and every family in this whole wide world. Have an enjoyable week ahead..........

Something Marvelous of Nature!!

"In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous"

~ Aristotle ~

Earth and sky, woods and fields, lakes and rivers, the mountains and the sea, are excellent schoolmasters, and teach some of us more than we can learn from books.

~ John Lubbock ~



"All things are artificial, for nature is the art of God"
~ Thomas Browne ~

"There is nothing in which the birds differ more from man than the way in which they can build and yet leave a landscape as it was before"
~ Robert Wilson Lynd ~

"I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in"
~ George Washington Carver ~

"The Universe is one great kindergarten for man. Everything that exists has brought with it its own peculiar lesson"
~ Orison Swett Marden ~

What we see each day!!

Everyday, when we are out of our house and on our journey to any of our destinations......... we are sure to see the traffic lights! At times, especially when we are running against time, we tend to even disobey its functions...... What's worst is....... once a while, we will observe the 'poor-lifeless' traffic light being run down by some unscrupulous or drunk driver!!!

With the traffic lights playing a very important role in our lives on the road, we should be thankful. That is why there is a special day being designated to honor & respect it. November 20th is "Traffic Light Day!", so let us all pay our respects to them by being obedient to them!

Thus...........

"In the mad rush of life, May we all always finds a reason to smile at every bend!"

A great article for all to ponder...........

"EIGHT LIES OF A MOTHER"

This story began when I was a child;
I was born as a son of a poor family.
Even for eating, we often got lack of food.
Whenever the time for eating, mother often gave me her portion of rice.
While she was removing her rice into my bowl,
she would say 'Eat this rice, son. I'm not hungry'
That was Mother's First Lie.

When I was getting to grow up,
The persevering mother gave her spare time for fishing in a river near our house,
she hoped that from the fishes she got,
she could gave me a little bit nutritious food for my growth.
After fishing, she would cook the fishes to be a fresh fish soup,
which raised my appetite.
While I was eating the soup, mother would sit beside me and eat the rest meat of fish,
which was still on the bone of the fish I ate.
My heart was touched when I saw it.
I then used my chopstick and gave the other fish to her.
But she immediately refused it and said 'Eat this fish, son. I don't really like fish.'
That was Mother's Second Lie.

Then, when I was in Junior High School,
to fund my study,
mother went to an economic enterprise to bring some use-matches boxes that would be stuck in.....
It gave her some money for covering our needs.
As the winter came,
I woke up from my sleep and looked at my mother who was still awoke,
supported by a little candlelight and within her perseverance she continued
the work of sticking some use-matches box.
I said, 'Mother, go to sleep, it's late,
tomorrow morning you still have to go for work.'
Mother smiled and said 'Go to sleep dear. I'm not tired.'
That was Mother's Third Lie.

At the time of final term,
mother asked for a leave from her work in order to accompany me.
While the daytime was coming and the heat of the sun was starting to shine,
the strong and persevering mother
waited for me under the heat of the sun's shine for several hours.
As the bell rang, which indicated that the final exam has finished,
mother immediately welcomed me and poured me a glass of tea
that she has prepare before in a cold bottle.
The very thick tea was not as thick as my mother's love,
which was much thicker. Seeing my mother covering with perspiration,
I at once gave her my glass and ask her to drink too.
Mother said 'Drink, son. I'm not thirsty!'
That was Mother's Fourth Lie.

After the death of my father because of illness,
my poor mother had to play her role as a single parent.
By held on her former job, she had to fund our needs alone.
Our family's life was more complicated. No days without sufferance.
Seeing our family's condition that was getting worst,
there was a nice uncle who lived near my house came to help us,
either in a big problem and a small problem.
Our other neighbours who lived next to us saw that our family's life was so unfortunate,
they often advised my mother to marry again.
But mother, who was stubborn, didn't care to their advice,
she said 'I don't need love.'
That was Mother's Fifth Lie.

After I had finished my study and then got a job,
it was the time for my mother to retire.
But she didn't want to; she was sincere to go to the marketplace every morning,
just to sell some vegetable for fulfilling her needs.
I who worked in the other city, often sent her some money to help her in fulfilling her needs,
but she was stubborn for not accepting the money.
She even sent the money back to me.
She said 'I have enough money.'
That was Mother's Sixth Lie.

After graduated from Bachelor Degree,
I then continued my study to Master Degree.
I took the degree, which was funded by a company through a scholarship program,
from a famous University in America.
I finally worked in the company.
Within a quite high salary,
I intended to take my mother to enjoy her life in America.
But my lovely mother didn't want to bother her son,
she said to me 'I'm not used to.'
That was Mother's Seventh Lie.

After entering her old age,
mother got a flank cancer and had to be hospitalised.
I, who lived in miles away and across the ocean,
directly went home to visit my dearest mother.
She lied down in weakness on her bed after having an operation.
Mother, who looked so old, was staring at me in deep yearn.
She tried to spread her smile on her face;
even it looked so stiff because of the disease she held out.
It was clear enough to see how the disease broke my mother's body,
thus she looked so weak and thin.
I stared at my mother within tears flowing on my face.
My heart was hurt, so hurt, seeing my mother on that condition.
But mother, with her strength, said 'Don't cry, my dear. I'm not in pain.'
That was Mother's Eighth Lie.

After saying her eighth lie, She closed her eyes forever!

This touching sharing from a young boy who later grew up to be a young man, is sure to touch each and everyone's lives! I believe that all mothers tends to act as such (lying) not because of any bad intention, but out of a mother's love for their children. If each of us are to recap the acts of our own mother, and to add up onto the above 'list of lies', I think it will be a long list!!!

So, from now on, don't take a mother's word in total....... remember, there is always some hidden truth in her answers.........

Mother's are the place where love

Mothers are the place where love
Emerges from the earth
And happiness rings out like bells
In honor of our birth.

Mothers are the sun that lights
For life our inner sky,
So we may know that we are loved
And need not question why.

Mothers are the moon that shines
Upon our black despair,
So even when we weep, we know
That someone's always there.

Whatever fear, or stress, or pain
Might them to anger move,
We know that underneath the storm
We have, always, their love.

~ Copyright by: Nicholas Gordan ~

Wrightia Plant (Part 8)

In part 6 of my blog article about Wrightia Plant, which is dated 24th October, I've written about repotting of one of the plant, and with pictures attached. Next is....... we are waiting anxiously for it to bloom!!

Finally, the repotted plant is BLOOMING!! Here's some pictures which I've captured to share with all............

It is indeed interesting to see its changes, that is week after week!! No wonder 'Bonsai Lovers' have been on the increased - It is really a wonderful hobby!! Wanna venture into it friends?????

The Changing Years - PREPARE NOW! [Part 4] My personal thoughts........

It is indeed a great pleasure to have come across such a great article and to share with all friends and readers out there.

In the olden days, that is the days of our great grandparents, grandparents or even parents for the matter........ this topic is not being spoken of! It is something which, I believe, that women who are going through the menopausal time in life are experiencing something which they hardly understand and know. That is why the article did mention about people thinking of it as a sickness or that something is wrong! Indeed, women in the olden days are suffering in silent.

Today, being in this modern world, many things have change!! Knowledge can be acquired freely, if we feel unwell, we can always walk into any clinics or hospitals to obtain treatment, up-to-date information are being easily obtainable through pamplets, brochures, articles in newspapers & magazines and most of all through the internet. A great difference is that all girls are being given equal opportunities in education, unlike in the olden days where boys are given first priority while the girls stay at home. Today, with new medical facilities, specialised doctors and nurses as well as experts researchers, we are able to live life more comfortably and most of all being able to have a better understanding of the different stages of our human life!!

So, let us all try to get this information across to those around us, as it will sure be of great help to all who are in need, so as to have a clear understanding of a women's 'life changing years' & with proper preaparation we are all able to look forward for a great, rewarding and joyful years ahead!!!

The Changing Years - PREPARE NOW! [Part 4]

What To Do?

Once again, education or knowledge is most important. Read books and articles on the subject of menopause. Understand the variety of possible symptoms. Your family doctor can often be helpful in giving advice and, when necessary, recommendations on what do do.

Then face that wonderful changing time of life positively. Dr. Marion Hilliard in her book A women Doctor Looks at Love and Life describes her reaction to women patients who come to her office with the whispered statement, "Doctor, I think I'm in the change."

Dr. Hilliard whoops with delight, "The change! Well, you're in for an interesting time. I can promise you that the best years of your life are ahead of you."

I'm sure most of her patients are momentarily shocked beyond belief. Somehow, many think menopause is an illness to be treated by drugs and even hospitalization. While that might be recommended in the few cases of extreme difficulty, it is not what a majority of women need.

Another important consideration in successfully enjoying the changing years is nutrition and diet. (Not that this should not be an important consideration throughout one's life.) Because of all the chemical and emotional changes being made, a woman must eat a balanced diet and maintain proper nutrition.

Wisdom and balance in this area are essential. Most doctors know that chancy and excessive hormonal drugs are not the answer.

Yet many women automatically assume estrogen replacement is the thing to do. More often, it is not the thing to do. Why chance chemical side effects that could shorten your life to escape a few years of discomfort?

There really is no aid, natural or chemical, to combat growing older. We all will go through the aging process marking the various stages of life as they come.

When we were younger we could disregard (but shouldn't have) the laws of good health and not suffer immediate repercussions. But during these middle and later years of life our bad habits take noticeable toll.

As we grow older and often less active, our metabolic rates begin to change. We can gain weight on the same diet that formerly left us trimmer. Muscles begin to lose their tone and body alignment is affected. Many suffer resultant back pain.

A common complaint of many women in the menopausal years is the loss of calcium and a condition of bone loss called osteoporosis. At this stage in life regular exercise is vital. Coupled with proper calcium intake, the only known way to stimulate bone growth is exercise.

Here's where husbands can again be of help. Begin an exercise plan by taking long walks together three or four times a week. Start with a half mile and work up to four or five miles. Almost everyone can exercise in this manner, and the talks you share while walking can strengthen your marriage as well.

In addition to physical symptoms and the ability to take care of those physical aspects of menopause, it is most urgent we understand the emotional changes that will also occur.

Fluctuating feelings of depression and irritability are not symptoms of encroaching mental illness. They simply, to one degree or another, are emotions one must cope with at this time of life.

There will be good days and there will be bad days. There will be times a woman will forget even her best friend's name. She will notice extreme fluctuations in her feelings of anger and love.

While hormonal imbalance plays a significant role in the emotional makeup, outside factors can also play a part. A women overly subjected to stress is much more likely to have fluctuating emotions than a woman who lives and works in an environment of love and understanding.

This brings us to the conclusion of the matter. Every woman must accept that she will enter into and pass through menopause. It is not a sickness or disease, but a normal, to-be-anticipated time of life.

It is a time when a husband must offer more love, understanding and time to his wife than ever before. Children, relatives and friends must also pitch in to create a stable and loving environment.

Then, it is a time to look forward to about one third of a life span of accomplishment and joy.

If you have entered or are about to enter menopause, relax. You are going to go through some changes, yes. You will some days be hard to live with. You will have some bad days. But they will get fewer and further between. One day they will stop.

Stay active and busy. Maintain a good exercise program. Eat a wholesome and balanced diet.

Then you may find, as one woman wrote, "The change begins at age 45 but, believe me, life begins at 50!"

A 'Difficult & Bitter' trod down memory lane........

Most people do have both 'sweet & bitter' experiences of their working life, but it is usually the sweet more than the bitter. But sadly for mine, it is the opposite way round!! The sole reason being, spending three quarters of my working life in the "Hard-Solid" place so-called 'STORE'!! You can read more from my earlier blog dated February 22nd.

Whenever I think back on my working life in the store, it sure brings chills down to my spine!!! Let me share with all of you my 'Difficult & Bitter' journey then.........

The location of work is in the Industrial areas, at that time there isn't any shophouses located near it & bus transportation is only once in an hour. The first shock when I reported duty was "I am the first to break the store's tradition of all men environment!" At first I thought...... well, I am the "thorns among the bushes" - sure no one dare to bully me!!! But as the days pass....... I came to realise that this saying doesn't work....... WHY??? There goes the remark from my colleague......."If man do such work, she also have to do, what's the difference"!

Another thing which I don't understand is, why the whole place have to be locked up, including the office area during lunch time???? So...... wanna know where I stay at lunch??? For this I really have to thank a senior male colleague, Mr. Lim, for his kindness in letting me use his 'self-made' small wooden table & chair, located at one of the 'open warehouse' in the store compound. With my home-pack lunch, that is how I spend my lunch time, and mind you...... once the wind blows, the dust flies all over (as it is an open-warehouse) and........ you can imagine how much dust I have to inhale as well as swallowed together with my lunch!!!!! All those caused me my day-in and day-out "Throat Irritation"!!! For those colleagues from the other sections who used to come over to store to collect their materials, guess by now you all understand why I tend to cough often & having this habit of clearing my throat - it is not a habit, but an uncontrollable action due to my throat irritation. Medications at that time are of no avail, but luckily after I left working there, the irritation gradually goes off - thank God!!!

Throughout my 20 years 3 & a half months working there, I really worked all out. Carrying of materials & items (all receipts, issues & packagings) are no stranger to me!! Perspiring 'tons of sweats' is no less than the male colleagues!!! Of all tasks I do, there is one thing which I tell myself that I will never do - Driving a Forklift!!!

Friends....... have you ever realise that carrying too heavy loads using the wrong ways or postures can really caused harm to our body???? When we are young, we might not realise it, but if we continue to take things forgranted it will be our own self to suffer silently in the end! But what can we do???? We need to earn our living??? We are being put there & paid for the job, so....... we have to do!

I wonder, how many management (especially those big companies) really care for their employees???? Spending so much sponsoring for purpose of 'image of the company', but never give a thought to it's own employees! "Welfare should start from the home!"

Though our country have this "Occupational, Safety and Health Act" but......... how many really follow the act???? Even there is a committe being formed in the company itself....... they are just for show, everything is only at it's surface. So, dear female friends....... make sure that if your children (especially girls) is looking for a job, do bear in mind that, if the job requires carrying of heavy loads (not necessarily be in the store only), and if can be prevented, please do so as "Prevention is better than cure!" Remember that getting this after effect of such actions will be the rest of our life's suffering, this is what doctors called it Osteoartrities, which affects not only the joints but also the nerves of our body!!

This is my very personal & sincere advise to all people out there, as I belief that all of us wish to have a healthy & happy life when we gets older. So friends.........

"Having good health, being able to breathe and be happy, that's one of the most beautiful gifts"
~ Roy Ayers ~

"In health there is freedom. Health is the first of all liberties"
~ Henri Frederic Amiel ~

The Changing Years - PREPARE NOW! [Part 3]

What to expect?

Most women can expect menopause to begin in the late 40s. The average age is 47. Research has shown heredity is a strong factor -- a daughter can anticipate beginning menopause at about the same age her mother did.

At the onset of menopause the menstrual cycle may change slightly. Monthly periods will perhaps not be as regular as before. The number of days of menstrual flow may change, over a period of years decreasing in days till finally the process stops entirely.

As menopause slows down, the woman's body will usually produce fewer hormones. This, along with other adjustments, stresses and strains of the middle years, may produce increased nervousness and feelings of depression (often for no apparent reason). There may also be weight gain without additional food intake and at times an inability to sleep as well as usual.

Sometimes there will be a tingling feeling in the hands and feet. And there may be occasional itching and a feeling of heat in certain portions of the body -- most people call these "hot flashes."

These conditions should be no cause for alarm. They are brought about by irregular contraction and expansion of many blood vessels in the body. These irregularities, too, will pass in time.

Most women will experience a noticeable decrease in energy. The energy level may drop by as much as one third at this time of life. Some women who have maintained a hectic schedule, whirred through the housework and were always ready to go at a moment's notice, simply may not be able to maintain that pace.

This does not mean the home should be filled with statements like: "Vacuum the house, Suzie, Mommy's very tired. She's in that time of life, you know." Yes, Mother may well appreciate a little extra help around the house, but she doesn't need those sideswiping comments.

If there are still children at home, they should certainly do their fair share of keeping the house clean and other normal household duties. (Fact is, they ought to have been doing that all along.)

And it wouldn't be the worst idea in the world if the husband picked up some of the duties of the home and together they would do the dishes once in a while. He can vacuum the upstairs or prepare an occasional meal.

And if the family had not been able to afford it before, but can now, hire domestic help to clean the home once or twice a month.

Most of all, you can be sure menopause is a passing phase of life. It will end, but it may last a few years. There may be some discomfort. A few women will have more severe than normal symptoms. But it will come to an end. The best years of one's life can be just around the corner.

World Kindness Day!

On this day, 13th November which is "World Kindness Day", I would like to wish that life always reaches out to you all in many unexpectedly kind and generous ways & may kindness touches everyone's heart and makes life easier for all people around us!!

So many gods, so many creeds,
So many paths that wind and wind,
While just the art of being kind,
Is all the sad world needs.
~ Ella Wheller Wilcox ~

"Kindness is the golden chain by which society is bound together"
~ Goethe ~

The Changing Years - PREPARE NOW! [Part 2]

Education, the First Step

Knowledge is one of the most important ingredients to any phase of life -- but perhaps more important at menopause than any other.

Menopause has been described as adolescence in reverse. A young woman enters into puberty at about age 12 or 13. That is an exciting time of life -- and it's important parents educate their children about this new phase.

A girl matures into a young woman and her body begins its preparations to make motherhood possible. During the next four decades the fallopian tubes will release more than 400 ova.

In those years marriage will usually take place in the early 20s. Many families will have children. Conception can occur on a monthly basis. During a month when conception does not occur, the unfertilized egg does not become attached to the uterus and the menstrual period results.

But usually in the mid to late 40s, this all begins to change. The childbearing years over, God designed the body to cease the possibilities of conception. But not suddenly. This marvelous change usually takes a few years.

Menopause is a natural and normal part of the life's processes. About 85 percent of women will pass through the change in life with relatively minor symptoms of discomfort. The remaining 15 percent may experience greater difficulty, but can seek proper medical help and guidance to proceed through the few years menopause may take.

Menopause is not something to fear. It is a passing stage of life that may offer some discomfort and concern. But it will pass. Woman can find the remaining years some of the most personally rewarding, gratifying and joyful years of their lives.

An Understanding Husband

For married women going through the menopause, an understanding husband can be one of the best helps of all. Many men simply are not educated concerning the importance of this time in a woman's life, and do not offer proper support.

Some of you readers may wonder why a man would be writing this article on the subject of female menopause. One important reason is that many men have not taken the time to understand their wives in this sometimes crucial phase of life. And I hope all our male readers are reading this article.

My wife and I are now going through this marvelous time of life. I pray this gives me not only understanding, but feeling and empathy for others. My wife expresses to me almost daily how much she appreciates me taking the time to learn about and help her through the rough spots that will come in even the best of circumstances.

Perhaps more than at any other time in the marriage, a woman during menopause requires love, attention, appreciation and understanding.

Without a doubt there is a hormonal change taking place. To a lesser or greater degree there will be changing emotional reactions, depression, hot flashes and lack of energy.

Husbands must never let this time in life lead to casting a wandering eye toward another woman or lead to neglect. It is a time for husbands and wives to spend even more time together. It is a time for a husband to reassure his wife she is even more beautiful than ever.

Remember you are both growing older together. And if the wife has a few gray hairs, some wrinkles in the brow and has gained a pound or two, so probably has the husband.

So in addition to education, the love and support of a husband, children and friends are vital ingredients to help a woman through this changing time of life.

The Changing Years - PREPARE NOW! [Part 1]

This "MUST READ" article, written by Ronald D. Kelly is requesting us all, especially women to understand our natural life cycles in order to prepare ourselves well for the changing years. However, this is not only meant for the women alone, but also for all spouses and family members, if you want to know why, then read on to find out............ I assure you that this article is worth reading, so please don't omit it. As it is rather a long article, I will be putting it in parts, so happy reading friends..........

Those of you who are women face far more today than was expected of your mothers and grandmothers.

Not only must you be an up-to-date homemaker, wife and mother, you must also cope with the mounting pressures of financial responsibility and keep up with knowledge of a rapidly changing world.

Yet when you reach those middle years of life, the same physical, hormonal, mental and emotional changes will go on just as women have experienced for thousands of years. For many, it's a devastating combination.

Some have hoped, even thought, today's active, fulfilled women aren't supposed to experience irrational anxieties. It seems so out of style.

Instead of looking at this stage of life as a time of reassessment -- a time to grow and develop some of those interests put aside in earlier years -- some look into their mirrors one day and see a vaguely familiar face and a figure they don't like very well.

There is a noticeable tint of gray in the hair. There are wrinkles in the corners of the eyes. A few pounds of extra weight. A listless feeling, frequent depressions, occasional hot flashes and night sweats and their nerves are frayed.

It all adds up to the "change of life" -- menopause as it is more technically called. There is in the life of every God-designed women that time when the body will no longer bear children. A physical and emotional change is under way.

For too many it becomes a crisis!

Battling Fluctuating Hormones
Women entering the middle years, whether they admit it or not, have the battle of fluctuating hormones to fight. Many find it hardly a skirmish. But for some, it's an all-out war. It's up to you whether you will enter the battle prepared and armed or whether you will face this challenge unprepared both physically and mentally.

It is an important time in life. The happiness of the remaining one third of your life is at stake. How to pass through menopause and plan for the future is often one of the most overlooked and least considered times of life.

Everyone has to realize the middle years are very real. I have a good friend, a male, who until recently believed these sort of changes were all mental and phychological.

One night he and his wife were guests in our home for dinner. As we sat by the fireplace after the meal, the subject of menopause came up. He and my wife engaged in quite a discussion on whether the change of life was hormonal and physical or just in one's head.

After some time, my friend's wife finally presented the best case to convince him he was wrong. She said to him, 'Honey, please don't make it so I have to go through terrible turmoil during menopause just to prove you are wrong."

You see, my friend had also thought morning sickness during the early stages of pregnancy was just in the head. They have three lovely children. The first pregnancy was practically perfect. No morning sickness. No complications. A relatively easy delivery. A healthy and happy baby.

So, my friend thought they were all supposed to be this way. Easy. Trouble free. And if they weren't, he reasoned, it was because people didn't think right.

A couple of years later, they were expecting their second child. He fully anticipated the same carefree nine months as before.

That was not to be. During the first few weeks, the expectant mother began to experience nausea -- extreme morning sickness. Actually it was morning, noon and nighttime sickness. Not just a few weeks, but most of the rest of the pregnancy.

That's why she said, "Honey, please don't make me go through a terrible menopause just to prove you are wrong."

I think he was now convinced there was a biological and hormonal change that does take place.

A day to remember special people in our lives.........

10th November is "Forget Me Not" Day! It is a day to remember those who have a deep impact on our lives and have affected it in many positive ways......... Apart from friends, family members, neighbours, relatives, it can also be our teachers, mentor, team members, guardian, colleague, and old classmate or schoolmate, etc.

Thus, on this special day there must be dozens of people whom we can remember........ if you haven't done so........ why not do your recalling now, it's sure a worthy effort!!

"If instead of a gem, or even a flower, we should cast the gift of a loving thought into the heart of a friend, that would be giving as the angels give"
~ George MacDonald ~

Wanna feel 100% healthier???? (Continuation)

My earlier blog is the article about 'addicted to smoking', for continuation I've got 'addicted to Junk Food' and 'addicted to a lazy lifestyle' to share......... Guess, most of us are sure to be under one of the category, so let's change our lifestyle to be healthy.............

JUNK FOOD
If you eat burgers and chips daily, you're putting your body at a greater risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes. It may be hard to give up your favourite treats, but you'll see it's worth the effort. Avoid having a takeaway more than once a week. Plan meals instead of impulsively stopping to grab an unhealthy char kway teow on your way home from work.

........ after one day
Cutting back on sodium and saturated fat from fried foods and snacks will instantly make you feel less bloated. You'll also notice a change in your energy levels.

........ after one month
You'll probably notice some weight loss, and your energy levels will continue to improve. Eating foods rich in insoluble fibre can help reduce the risk of bowel cancer, while soluble fibre (found in barley, oats, fruits and vegetables) can help reduce cholesterol levels. Research shows it takes two to three months for cholesterol levels to fall. With time, the fatty streaks in the blood vessels will be reduced. Your ability to focus will also improve as you shed fat from your diet.

........ after one year
If you've been watching what you eat and exercising regularly, you will notice a weight loss of 5 to 25 kg, depending on your starting weight and diet. The weight off means there's less stress on your joints, better heart health, and a lower rish of developing lifestyle-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes.

EXERCISE
Fitness consultant Carmela Hernandez says when it comes to exercise, the first step is the hardest. She says the best way is to set attainable goals. "Most women quit right after starting an exercise programme because they try to do too much. So keep your fitness goal specific (for example, aim to lost 2 kg of body fat), realistic (in a month's time) and achievable (by brisk walking for 30 minutes thrice a week)."

........ after one hour
Increased levels of endorphins will lift your mood, while the release of the hormone epinephrine will help speed up your metabolism and provide an energy boost. You'll feel these positive effects even if you're not super-fit.

........ after four to six weeks
Although each body works differently, you can expect changes in muscle tone and strength, says Carmela. Your HDL (good) cholesterol levels will increase as exercise becomes a part of your lifestyle.

........ after six months
With the weight loss, toned muscles and improved energy levels, those around you will notice your physical and psychological changes. As you feel a sense of achievement, Carmela says you gain self-confidence too.

........ after one year
In the long term, having an active lifestyle reduces your risk of diseases like diabetes, heart disease and osteoporosis, as well as breast and bowel cancers.