HUMAN JOYS

God, You satisfy my mouth with good things, not only my necessities but beyond all that my heart desires. You have added years to my life, as rich and full as can be. God, You continually bless me with heaven's blessings as well as human joys. 
I am living to enjoy my grandchildren... Bless you God!

GOD IS FAITHFUL

I say, "Thank you for Your kindness" every morning and every evening. I rejoice in all Your faithfulness. You have done so much for me, O God, no wonder I am glad...

SELFIE

Practice makes perfect ... even in taking selfies. As in many other tasks we improve by putting in the effort, through trial and error, tips from others, a willingness to learn and subject to correction. When we've mastered a certain skill the result is most satisfying and rewarding. 
We're constantly learning and exploring... selfies ... wefies ... and what have we...

TRANSFORM

A kind word ... a sincere compliment ...genuine concern ... an appreciative generous tip go a long way in bringing smiles. Life's burden seems a whole lot lighter and days less monotonous, sweeter, gentler, and more fun for both the receiver and giver.
This transformation happens when we regard and treat others as better than ourselves...

MUMMY DEAREST

I miss my mother the most during this Chinese New Year season. Mother was no saint but nevertheless revered, respected, regarded and recognized as the Empress Dowager of the family. She was truly the one who glued us together. Mother wasn't always right but she had her way. A stickler stuck to her guns! Till the very end she was in control. Years have gone by but I'm still in awe at her resolve!
As we prepare to usher in the New Year of the Pig (which incidentally is my year) I remember Mother with great affection and admiration. She's gone physically but in my mind and heart, she's still very much alive. Miss you, mum ..

EXPECTATIONS

By the side of a happy woman is (usually) a happier man! 
Joy is being comfortable in our own skin and knowing we don't have to live up to anyone's expectations. By the same token we do not frown and look down on others who do not meet our expectations.
Live and let live ...

SIHANOUKVILLE

Fishing village in Sihanoukville, Cambodia. 
An eye opener for city folks ...

SOLO

Travelling solo works for some but I prefer company. Hitting the road again in search of adventure, exposure and new experience. A time to renew old acquaintance and make new friends....blessed and blissful

ST REGIS

We need not necessarily be rudely loud to draw attention. A gentle spirit ... quiet efficiency ... winsome smile ... classic elegance... conventional chic ... charming demeanor ... calm ... cool ... collected ... demure ... unassuming. 
These attributes certainly work better to help us move forward in life. Personal refinement - good character - cannot be bought but mostly cultivated...

THAILAND/CAMBODIA

Italian Liner - Costa Fortuna - home for the last eight days. A shorter trip this round but no less enjoyable, interesting and enlightening. We sailed from Singapore, Thailand,Ko Samui, Bangkok, Laem Chabang, Sihanoukville in Cambodia etc. 

Cruises are more relaxing (I feel) because you need only unpack and pack once...food and beverages available round the clock...room service ... fine dining ...nightly international shows...activities aplenty day and night...etc. 

It's easier to make new friends too, as people tend to be friendlier and happier when on holiday mode.
Checklist ticked. God willing, we're panning for the Balkans next! Blessed and blissful...

COSTA FORTUNA

I'm leaving...not on a jet plane but on a cruise! Will disappear for a while. Catch up when I return. Be good!

SPRING CLEANING

(Late posting)
It's going to be Chinese New Year (February 5) soon and I'm spring cleaning. Came across memories stashed in boxes I haven't opened in ages. The Givenchy necklace was presented to me almost 35 years ago by a person who has long passed on. He was the best marketing man in the shipping industry in his time. If he claimed to be number 2, no one would dare claim to be number 1. He was THAT popular!
AK was quite a character. We worked very well together. Unfortunately at one point we disagreed over work matters, quarreled and parted ways. We never spoke for several years. One day, out of the blue, AK called my office. He wanted to make peace and was sorry for the past. I was so touched. We both teared. Friendship and goodwill was restored by that one phone call.
A week later he went home to be with the Lord. Strange how an old necklace evokes such powerful memories ...