what an easter this year

It's been quite a memorable Easter Sunday. I've been trying to get a hold of Masami-san since before my birthday, but found out that she was not in Japan then. She had just arrived few weeks ago and would only be around for 2 weeks before flying back to Singapore. 

I thought, if she couldn't make it for church, we could spend some time at my place. So I made some kurma chicken (I still have lots of the powder left!), hoping she would have missed some Malaysian food. Alas, in my haste I had forgotten to add one of the most important ingredient - fortunately it wasn't too late to add the salt even after it had been cooked :D 

Was glad that I was able to see her, since she was not permitted to visit Malaysia for awhile due to her accidental previous overstay. Cindy has left for Chicago, and I was a little worried she might still be depressed. 

It was very nice of her to bring many gifts - which she shouldn't have! I've always admired her for having such strength and vitality despite being a grandmother, able to go around starting Yosakoi groups and teaching traditional Japanese dance lessons. (Good reminder to take the stairs more often!)

She enjoyed the hula dance at the beginning of the church service, though I was amused to find her nodding during the sermon. Maybe the message was more for me, and I couldn't help but be reminded (just a little) about the "log in my eye". 

I was glad that Dora was able to join for dinner after that, at a chain restaurant that I used to frequent back in Tokyo. So it was quite nostalgic to be able to savour some healthy Japanese food while catching up with old friends.  

I came home to a lovely package of premium potato chips, an elegantly wrapped box of pineapple tarts, and the remainder of the freshest fruit cakes - how can I not be reminded that He would provide? 

pampered by

Whenever I return to Malaysia, I have to remind myself it's... well, Malaysia. According to Jib Gor, it's on track to becoming a developed nation in a few years' time, though there is much to suggest we are only half-baked and mainly it's just facade.

The things which are seemingly normal and expected of in Japan, are actually very-nice-to-have's and accorded in special cases in this country. Some would say, even the rest of the world.

Just a couple of days before I was due to fly back, I was trying to do some last minute Christmas shopping. Antonio happened to tag along after I had passed him some delayed gifts.

It had been a rainy day, and we both had an umbrella each. Reaching the entrance of Sogo, we were greeted with a "gadget" that wraps umbrellas with a plastic sheet so that you don't make a mess of the shops inside.

It's found almost everywhere. It helps both the customer who don't have to worry about shaking off the excess water, and keeps stores dry and safe for all.

Just push wet umbrella in. and out comes a neatly wrapped umbrella!

As part of extra service, shops also offer additional packaging for the goods that you have just purchased. Japan is well known for elaborate packaging as part of their hospitality and culture. It's normal for each piece of confectionery to be individually packed, then presented in a gorgeous box which is then covered with nice wrapping paper. These are usually put into a matching paper bag which might contain smaller bags if the goods could be presented to various people.

However, on rainy days, they also add a layer of plastic that fits the size of the paper bag just nicely so that your gifts don't get wet. Since most people take public transportation and have to carry everything back by hand, this I must say is really thoughtful of them!

The other thing which I find that really epitomises Japanese hospitality is what I call the "closing shop bow". Maybe this is just in Sogo or other high-end stores, but as I was still lingering around after closing hours trying to find the right gift, they didn't hurry me or shoo me out the door. Instead they allowed me to get what I needed, and as I walked out to the exit, each store attendant would stand by their booth/area and bow down and thank me.

Imagine going down the aisle with a few confectionery stalls on each side with the sales person bowing down as you sheepishly walk toward the exit. Hmm, maybe that's the reason - You would feel so bad for such indulgent hospitality that you would walk faster so they don't have to stay back to do extra bowing!

the many many blossoms

I had returned to KBF after a hiatus of almost 2 months. It was nice to see familiar faces again, and also pleasant to meet up with the missions team from NLRC Malaysia after almost 2 years. The last time was when I had just came to Kobe and looking for a church.

Some had asked what I have been up to. It's nice to know that people ask these sort of questions, but also at the same time they don't bug you about it.

It all started with the hanami season, and plenty of reasons to be out and about. Like when I took one Monday off to enjoy the beautiful weather and had some drawing-blessing time with Dora.

And because it was getting cold towards the evening, I suggested we could continue back at my place while sipping lovely tea and share some chocs I got for White Day. I know some people get offended if their recipient share their gifts, but I can't finish all these chocs by myself and what's the point if I can't share some blessings especially with those who appreciate such things too.

Come Easter weekend, the sakura was either at full bloom or about to fall off branches, but still was nice to catch some last glimpses.

And what better way to celebrate the Saturday before Easter by having some apple pie-flavoured Easter-themed Kit Kat bars. It's quite hard to see, but they actually imprinted bunny ears on the wafer coating. My friends thought these Kit Kats had some defect because they didn't have the divider in the middle all the way to the bottom!

How can I forget the time when I went all the way to Osaka to collect my Milo and gifts from mum meet Fong Jiao who was on assignment for the next few months. Had the pleasure to meet her fellow researcher Jah, my first encounter with a Thai Christian. I had to drag Fong Jiao to enjoy the early cherry blossom blooms and some local sights during her short stint here. After all, it's the best time to be in Japan.

So, these are not really the reasons I was missing from KBF to be honest. Just wanted to show off the wonderful time spent outdoors. No regrets taking off, and thankful I had all these opportunities to appreciate His beautiful creations.

the birthday that was, or was it?

Thanks everyone for the warm wishes and sweet thoughts! Rather than bore you with the usual speech of gratitude, let me humour you instead on this auspicious day. I booked my flight earlier than usual in the hopes of coming back in time for my birthday weekend. It was almost perfect; the business trip went well, I did what I went to Europe for, and accomplished 5 milestones in 2 weeks.

Was happy I visited a new country though I didn't get a stamp on the passport, enjoyed so much Scandinavian dishes I forgot I missed rice, and appreciated the better work-life balance that Asian companies are not known for. Even though I was still on calls with my boss, and some agencies up till the airplane was about to take off, I was quite pleased with myself, but very much thankful for His grace and mercy for such a "I-don't-quite-know-what-adjective-to-use" trip in Europe this time around.

I had called up a few people to let them know I was back, and was anticipating a lovely birthday lunch which was planned weeks in advance. Snuggled back in my bed, set 2 alarm clocks just in case, and off I went to dreamland.

Next thing I knew, I woke up to see 3:37 on my phone. Is that AM or PM? OMG, as I looked out the window through the heavy curtains, I had missed my own birthday celebration.The jet lag and period and whole trip must have conspired against me! I didn't realise I was so tired, but I guess my body needed the rest.

My dear friends were so kind that they brought the birthday cake, the food they cooked, and the presents to church. Was very touched at their generosity, time and effort put into planning my special day. You should've seen the video they took singing birthday songs for me, with an empty chair reserved for me!

pre-birthday happiness

It's been a lovely but unexpected prelude to the birthday this year.

When I went home for Christmas, I knew I would be having a business trip sometime in February. I was hoping it would coincide with some snow since there's very little where I am here. However, project delays and availability pushed the date back a few times

So you can imagine I was very relieved that I didn't have to spend my birthday through a business trip, thanks to a little bit of planning and grace from above!

This was my first trip alone. Usually the boss or a colleague would be on the same trip. By His grace, I was able to accomplish what I went to Europe for - complete requirements gathering for Sweden, and launch 4 European sites.

This was the first time I stayed over the weekend, so I was able to explore a new country. Too bad I didn't get the Swedish stamp on the passport, since I was transiting from the Netherlands. >.<

Of course, there is still lots of unresolved issues, some unhappy people, and loose ends to tie up. But I ain't superwoman, and there's only so much one can do. So I chose to reflect on the positives of this trip - a check for a new country, plenty of gastronomic experiences, lovely people, and many unexpected treats.

Even though I was still on calls up till when the plane was getting ready to take off, I'm thankful I was able to leave Europe with sweet memories this time. Coupled with the fact that I came back a day earlier than usual means I'm able to celebrate my birthday properly!

colouring my autumn

Where did November go? It felt like the chilly winds just came and swept the 11th month away. Before I knew it, the golds had turned to reds and browns, and not long after, they all came falling down.

Autumn sure was short. I guess it's true what they say; some of the best moments in life are brief. I was a little sad that I didn't get to do much autumn leaf viewing as in previous years. These few months were hectic at work; and will continue to be so into at least Q1 next year.

On the bright side, I did have some time to experiment in the kitchen. I tried making this for Ako-san's birthday, though would have loved to share it with more people. I made 2 versions - one for individual treats, and a bigger one for the group.

I call it my summer jelly cause it's just full of summer colours. I had a bit of fun with the coconut milk and had them guessing the secret ingredient!

Also had some time to host a friend from Tokyo who was here for the Kobe Marathon. I can't believe it's now entering my 3rd year being in Kobe with the marathon starting line just around the corner where I live. What a pity I'm not that into running!

Still, this bouquet made for some cheer despite the colds. Am thankful for little blessings such as these.

the tohoku getaway

My last week away have been summarised by the collage of sorts below. You could say each represented the days spent with Lee Sin in Miyage prefecture, and the Prof Komiya and wife in Iwate prefecture.

Visited the area devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. There is just so much natural beauty here I wish I could express through my lens. Thinking I'd do a quick day trip, turns out I have more reasons to go back again.

Happy to be able to meet up again with Lee Sin, encouraged by her OM ministry and blessed by the fact that a fellow Malaysian is here in Japan too. Though so far from Kobe, and ironically never really met though staying in Subang before, I guess when it's meant to be, you will meet up somehow.

Though I had to bid Lee Sin farewell and head up north, the main part of my break was to visit the Prof whom I've last visited at his Iwate kampung 5 years ago. I still remember when I escaped to the north when I lost my job during the 2008 recession.

They always welcome me with open arms, as if I'm their daughter! The sight of their wooden home in the hills filled me with warm memories of that winter years ago when I felt like I didn't know what to do.

I always admire the Japanese who never fail to keep going even when it gets tough. He introduced me to his daughter who moved from Tokyo to start a bakery, and a local friend who specialises in handmade wooden utensils. Though Takizawa is a rural city surrounded by greens, there's a certain charm that reminds me of Hokkaido.

The artisan goods reminded me of the online shop my previous company was involved in. I told Sato-san that though Japanese prefer foreign goods, ironically it's the foreigners who are interested in traditional Japanese crafts.

Since it was peak period at his farm, I decided to lend a helping hand. My main task was to harvest the sword beans, and remove the beans from their pods. I'd stay indoors and help whatever I could when it rained. When the sun came out in its glorious form, we harvested corn, removed the malformed ones (it was his first attempt, so not all were fully pollinated), and cleaned up to make way for fresh ones next round.

Prof Komiya was happy I was able to help him out, so he could concentrate on cutting firewood in preparation for winter. His wife would be busy with baking, carpentry and housework. Looking at them busying away made me feel very lazy indeed!

As a "reward" for the "hard work", we took a ski lift up to the mountain to enjoy autumn leaves. Prof Komiya was so delighted because it was really perfect weather, and we could see the surrounding cities clearly. He had never really been able to do this because of the farm work, and his wife was also busy.

Seeing him get so excited about the ride up helped me to forget that it was almost 10 degrees at the top. Now that I'm back in Kobe, I can't help but reminisce about the 5 layers I had to wear last week. It still feels like late summer here, but I'll cherish it while I can.

godiva to be shared

What joy it is to be able to share life's blessings with those who need it more.

I thought it was too luxurious to try to finish these Godiva pralines all by myself, so I brought it to our Bible Study group to celebrate Ako-san's graduation from nailist school. She also congratulated me for being offered a permanent employee contract (after 3 months of uncertainty). Amidst the trials each of us were going through, little blessings shared meant a lot more than the value of the gift itself.

thankful for mama

A couple weeks ago I had ordered some flowers online. It was my first time, and I didn't quite know what to expect. Ironic considering I'm in the e-commerce field! Well, the florist was based in Malaysia and we've heard cases of fraud and such so it was with some trepidation that I clicked submit.

I had already texted my dad to be on standby at home since I wanted it to be a surprise for my mum. He happened to be out for lunch then, when the delivery boy came. He tried to call my mum and after trying for like 10x he left some messages.

My mum working then, thought it suspicious that someone had delivered "something" but would not tell her what it was and who it was from. Later she found out that their delivery staff were trained to be discreet while professional.

In the end, since no one was at home, the delivery boy tried both neighbours but alas, they were also out. He finally managed to leave the bouquet with the neighbour 2 doors away. Glad to know they didn't hoard the flowers themselves - I should have more faith in humanity I'm glad there is hope in humanity.

Finally that evening when she came home she finally got the flowers. My dad who was more excited took quite a lot of pictures for me!

She was very surprised with the gift and expressed her appreciation to me and my bro. This was the first time I had thought of it, as years before when I asked, she replied that flowers don't have much value as they are not very practical gifts >.<

oh to extend my gifts

For those of you who are friends with me on FB, you might have seen the latest post about how I came across an unexpected extra birthday treat.

I think even if I had found out about the birthday treat earlier, I might still stash it for as long as I can, and risk giving myself a stomachache! >.<

I tend to keep precious gifts for as long as I can, trying to extend their lifespan. It's either because I have only one of them, or get them as a gift, or something my mum sent from home.

I bought these little jars of natural preserves at the Borough Market in London when I was there last summer. Because my little kitchen cabinet was running out of space, I had kept this in my closet. I do remember them when I peek at the little space beneath the clothes, but one day as I was cleaning out my luggage bag I decided to check the expiry date. And it was good that I checked, for some were about to expire!

Now I have good excuse to buy some bread to eat these with. I thought these were pretty exotic jams, would have cost me a fortune to get it elsewhere :
- Mulberry Jelly
- Somerset Cider Brandy and Seville Orange Marmalade
- Whiskey and Seville Orange Marmalade
- Damson Jam

Knowing how much I love home-boiled soup, my mum gave me some herbal soup packs from Eu Yan Sang. Of course nothing beats mom's soup, but I guess this is the closest I have. I can usually make 2 servings each time. The recipe says it serves 3-4, but looking at the amount of soup I drink, I can definitely drink more than a person's portion.

I try to make these after my period is over, but since I only have a few packets, I try to keep until I think I deserve a treat. I figured since these were dry ingredients, they could last a bit longer than the stated expiry date!

We received some White Day gifts from the guys in the department, one month after Valentine's. One of the bigger ones came from the CIO. I'm sure all the grrls have already gobbled up theirs, but since I have been on business trips past few months I was finally able to unwrap mine recently. Thank goodness it has not expired yet, so now I have some for teatime snacks in the office!


For those of you who have wondered why I have not used/eaten/drunk your present/gift/treat, you should be honoured because the more precious it is, the longer I try to keep before using/eating/drinking it!

new hair, hot springs, cocoa indulges

The CIO had made him apologise.

There's been positive changes since then, slowly but surely.

In the meantime, I have been busy myself.

To signify new beginnings and to usher in my favourite season, I decided to go for a hair cut. I found that 2 friends from church had decided to open a cafe-cum-hair salon in the apartment they used to share. The signboard outside states "Hiding Place".

It feels like going to a friend's home, but you get to be served tea time snacks and warm tea. And if you like, you get to have a haircut too and browse through the cute knick knacks on sale. There's a little box at the entrance, they depend on the goodwill and generosity of their friends and customers to pay them what they think the service is worth.

Actually, I was bit hesitant in cutting my hair as it wasn't even planned in the first place. So happened I had a free Saturday afternoon and I have been wanting to trim my hair for the longest time. An invitation came from Yumiko who was introducing another friend to the cafe and soon I found myself tagging along. Judging from the comments I've been getting, this seems to be a cute style!

Before it got too warm, I rounded up some friends to join me for a visit to the hot springs. We have been talking about since last autumn but I decided the last long weekend would be the only time to do it, and so we drove ourselves up to the Suzurandai countryside.

I also have been wanting to visit the cafe the church has started here, Little House but didn't quite know how. It's a quaint little wooden house just right beside the train tracks, in a oblong of space that would be too small to even build a proper house, but somehow with Japanese ingenuity they managed to even have a plot for the garden and a little shed to sell vegetables.

An afternoon of Japanese citrus yuzu tea and cheesecake, followed by lots of soaking in the hot waters of Suzuran No Yu, and enjoying the outdoor hot springs was just what I needed after past few months of business trips and work kraziness!

And of course my Valentine's Day treat - finally indulged in them before they start to expire! >.<

birthday and white day, yes again

春は大好きな季節です。私の誕生日で、天気はまだ寒かったのに、だんだん温かくなします。

去年と今年も、神様の恵みに本当に有難うございます。

day 8 : coloured hearts

一月一日のプレゼントは最後のです。ちょっと悲しけど、ゆっくりで明けました。人形の封筒の中にもう一つ透明な封筒があります。

「Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth - 3 John 1:2」

色々のハートの説明書も入ってます：
緑　：きよめられた心
青　：神の言葉がう注入する心
Purple : 女王の心
Yellow : 油注がれた心 anointing
Orange : 熱意（ねつい）の心 on fire!

本当に全部のプレゼントは意味があるの贈り物ですよね！よく考えたねドラちゃん～真に有難うございます m(＿ ＿)m

day 7 : mini file

１２月３１日のプレゼントはこちらです。薄い緑の紙と緑のＭＴテープの中でちっちゃいファイルが入ってます。日本らしいのファイルで、超可愛いと思ってた～それで、蝶々のメッセージもあります。

「昔のことを追いかける疲れたでしょう。人生を整理して、前に向けを、感謝して、私が主は私の将来の可能性が見えるから。Please read Philippians 3:13-14」

よいアドバイスと思ってた～