Friday, October 26, 2007

"Back to School With Dad 2008" Initiative

Dear Friends

Greetings from CFF. Very soon it will be the start of a fresh school year. We continue with the initiative “Back to School with Dad” which was launched last year, as part of our on-going efforts to promote responsible fatherhood and strengthen family ties.

If you are an employer, we urge you to support this event by giving time off to male employees in your organization to bring their children to school during the first week of January 2008. For the individual, you might want to interest your organization to participate in the initiative.

Please write or call us for more details.

Grateful

Irene Lee, Administrator
___________________

Centre for Fathering

(O) 6252 8408

Hope that many fathers will participate in this initiative! Js-family!

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Balloon Sculpting Lesson at Tampines Regional Library

Hi friends

Like to share with you a photo of a wonderful time I had with my mum at Tampines Regional Library during the June school holiday - learning balloon sculpting! It is indeed a creative craft.



We almost didn't make it for the lesson as my younger brother was down with fever and my mum had to fetch my grandma from her home last minute so that she can look after him for the duration of time we are away.

I had so much fun. We met a father with his daughter in the class, and also a pair of brothers who came for the lesson by themselves! SO brave of them (wearing blue T-shirts, standing behind me)... had a burst balloon and without an adult! Well, they got some adult help from my mum; who conversed in Malay with them.

Wished that you had been there too?!!! Well, look out for any lesson at the library near you. It cost my mum $2/- for both of us. Balloons and reading materials included too! We made a flower, a twisted hat and a sword... all these we can bring home...YIPPY!! Balloon sculpting is really fun, I'm looking forward to a next one so that I can learn more tricks!

One needs to be creative to make more things with balloons and I asked my mum to look for more ideas so that we can learn together during the next school break. Want to learn too? Get my mum to teach you if you see here... oh, please do get the balloons and pumps ready.

Bye for now!
Jasper Chia

Saturday, September 8, 2007

Bored? Boring? - Just a chid's expression of feelings!

Administrative Note: Philip Chang, our family therapist/counselor continues with some parenting tips. Articles from ALL readers like you help Centre for Fathering broaden our network in sharing precious learning points on fatherhood. Please continue to send us your thoughts in comments, poetry, short essays etc. (within 500 words) keep sharing. However, the Centre reserves the right to decide whether to use material contributed by readers, as well as the right to edit such material.

“I am bored….” or “Dad, don’t be so boring…”

Have you ever had this complaint thrown at you by your child? How did you feel?

Many parents will feel guilt one time or another. This is because our children have just told us that they are unhappy.

Fathers in particular have the greatest difficulty in handling family complaints because in general many of them assume that happiness is the litmus test of their fatherhood. After all, isn’t a good father one who brings happiness to his family? That is why many fathers feel guilty if ever their families give the slightest hint of unhappiness.

This is one of those destructive myths that fathers should quickly kill whenever it raises its head. The fact is that happiness is a feeling.

Firstly, a feeling is like the breeze. It comes and it goes. Now you feel it, then you don’t. Feelings change consciously and unconsciously. This energy is in motion all the time, like air that surrounds us – invisible and yet palpable.

Secondly, feelings are fundamentally subjective. Everybody’s feeling is personal and unique to her. No two persons can feel the same feeling, the same way, with the same weight even when the feeling is shared, like laughter. So you can’t own another person’s feeling, much less be responsible for it.
Thirdly, feelings cannot be denied. We can navigate our feelings but we cannot ignore them.

So the next time your child complains about feeling bored, just accept that she is sharing a feeling with you. You don’t have to be responsible for her feeling because she needs to learn to navigate her own emotions. What parents (especially fathers) can do, is to model how to accept the feeling and summon the power to choose the response.

The first step towards raising our emotional intelligence is to accept and own our emotions. Denial or any form of repression will only start a pressure-cooker effect that in time leads to impulsivity and outbursts.
What’s Happening at CFF
Adventure in Fatherhood

This is a father-child bonding camp. It’s designed to help fathers build closer relationships with their children through challenging adventure learning activities.
Date: Nov 23 - 24, 2007 (Fri - Sat) – please note a change of dates earlier from Nov 30 – Dec 1

Camp Fee: $390 per pair (father with ONE child only. Age: Pri 3 to Sec 1)
Min. 10 pairs to commence each camp.
Venue: OBS – East Coast Campus (East Coast Parkway)
Call Irene at 6252-8408 or email us at Irene@fathers.com.sg to register for the above event

Beginning Parenting Programme (BPP)

A monthly workshop to enable expectant couples to learn and share together with other couples at the same life-stage; and form fresh ties that will mutually enrich and support them for the rest of their lives.

Date: 27 Oct, 2007 (Sat)
Time: 2.00 – 6.00 pm

Registration fee: $20 per couple
Venue: Centre for Fathering at Blk 128A Lor 1 Toa Payoh #01-01, Singapore 311128

Call Irene at 6252-8408 or email us at Irene@fathers.com.sg to register for the above event If you find this e-mail helpful, please forward it to others who are interested. To subscribe or unsubscribe Fathering Matters, please send us a email at fatheringmatters@fathers.com.sg or check out our website at www.fathers.com.sg. Thank you.

Monday, August 27, 2007

Duel Masters Coloring Pages


Hi Duel Masters Wannabes

Here's a cool site for you to print and color online, also online puzzles. You can take up the challenge of online games.

Let's check it out!

Enjoy! God bless!
Jasper

Saturday, July 21, 2007

Trans Fats - Facts from FDA (USA)

Still in doubt of the term "Trans Fats"?

Well, wait no more! Here is where you could get the low-down of it all from the expert - U.S. Food & Drug Administration - from its definition, where the various fats are found and their proportion, and links to your many related concerns.

My salute to FDA(USA) and the many other countries' administrators who make food and drugs so safe for us! Singapore's government department Rock in this area too!

Healthy Eating - Minus the Trans Fats!

Enjoy Your Food in A Better Healthier Way!
Jennifer Tan and family.

Thursday, July 5, 2007

Centre for Fathering - an email and upcoming events

As family is the basis of a country, fathering role had changed these days and thus, I want to share the following unedited email from the Centre of Fathering with all fathers out there - singled, widowed or married:

Administrative Note: We want to thank our friend and volunteer, Clement Ong for sharing his fathering experience. Articles from ALL readers like you help Centre for Fathering broaden our network in sharing precious learning points on fatherhood. Please continue to send us your thoughts in comments, poetry, short essays etc. Keep sharing :-)

My Father’s Day Gifts

Father’s Day is over for this year. However, the role that fathers play may be far from over – regardless of whether you are a new father, a dad like me with two growing up kids (ages 10 and 8), or my daddy who is still fathering my sister and I who are in our early 40s. So is the second Sunday of June merely about having a special family dinner, presenting a gift or a card, or picking up the phone and wishing the man a “Happy Father’s Day”? Maybe it should be more than that – a good time to really pause for a while amidst our hectic lives to reflect on what Father’s Day really means to us. As I did that on the ferry returning from a church camp held in Batam on 17 June 2007, Father’s Day has indeed taken on a greater meaning for me this year.

Yes, it was Father’s Day but my late maternal grandfather flashed across my mind instead. Maybe it was because the ferry ride reminded me of the scattering of his ashes into the sea during that boat ride near Changi waters three years back. No, I realized it was more than that. My late grandpa played an important role in my fathering adventure. He was a selfless man. He made time for me and others, and above all, he took great care of my late grandmother who was bedridden. Although already in his early 70s and still juggling between his job as a chef and having to care for my granny then, there was never a single word of complaint from him. As a young boy, I have always respected him as a role-model father (or grandfather), and as I reflected, he has taught me two important lessons on fathering. One, presence – being there for your family members whenever needed. Two, loving your wife. Thinking about it, I must have taken my grandpa for granted as he was such an accommodating person. He would go out of his way to get my favorite stationery or toy, just to please me. How easy it is for us to take a family member for granted! I decided not to take my own dad for granted during this recent Father’s Day.

Like my granddad, my dad is a man of few words. However, he played the more active role in bringing up my sister and me. He has been an excellent role model in imparting his values to his children and has continued to do so with his two grandchildren. Despite being an active senior citizen in many ways, he has no hesitation in committing his time and energy to be with us. Retirement is never in my dad’s vocabulary. Besides looking after my children, he distributes newspapers to his neighborhood to keep fit and earn some extra income. He gets out of bed as early as 2 a.m. to ensure that the subscribers get a copy of the papers when they awaken. He then commutes to my house on a daily basis except for weekends, to look after my kids until my wife or I get home from work. This arrangement has been going on for the past eight years. Apart from the well wishes and the dinner during this Father’s Day celebration, I think he appreciated my concern when I asked him, “Are you still alright with the current arrangement?”

I had an advanced Father’s Day gift from my son when he agreed to join me at the Father-Child Bonding Camp organized by the Centre for Fathering held in early June 2007 at the Outward Bound School, East Coast Campus. Joel was so excited about the camp that he prepared for the overnight event two weeks before and he had practically memorized the detailed program for the two days. Indeed, it was a time well spent with my son. Not only were we more aware of our relationship, we also did many activities together such as rock climbing, trust walk, cooking etc., and most importantly, we built on our relationship through fun. During the camp, Joel taught me about courage and determination when he showed so much fighting spirit on the rock wall while I was almost going to give up.

As my daughter, Clarice, has not met the minimum age to join the Father-Child Bonding Camp, I anxiously registered the two of us for an afternoon Father’s Day celebration where games were organized for fathers and children to be held at the nearby residential community centre. However, to my great disappointment, I received a call from the organizer a day before the event informing me that it had to be cancelled due to poor response. In order not to further disappoint Clarice, I decided to spend the afternoon with her just by ourselves, without mom and brother – something we have always wanted to do on a monthly basis but failed to. I really treasured our time together that afternoon – although we engaged in familiar activities, it was the undivided time for one another that made the difference. I thanked Clarice for reciprocating the appreciation of the time spent together, and you know what, I was the “Preferred Choice” of between mom and dad for the next couple of days!

Well, I’m glad to have captured these moments and these lessons (gifts) about fathering. Indeed it is not an easy role to play and I am still very much learning along the way. There are the ups and downs during the fathering journey, very much like what I was experiencing on the ferry ride roughing out the choppy waters.

I fully agree with Mr Matthew Pereira’s contribution to the Sunday Times dated 10 June 2007 – “It’s tough being a dad, but we keep trying”. My father’s day wish is that more fathers would come forward to share and learn more about fathering and bonding with their children. Let’s keep trying, dads!

Now, I am off to make a date with my wife, Cheryl - my most precious gift along the fathering journey.


What’s Happening at CFF

Adventure in Fatherhood

This is a father-child bonding camp. It’s designed to help fathers build closer relationships with their children through challenging adventure learning activities.
Date: Nov 23 - Nov 24, 2007 (Fri - Sat)

Camp Fee: $390 per pair (father with ONE child only. Age: Pri 3 to Sec 1)
Min. 10 pairs to commence each camp.
Venue: OBS – East Coast Campus (East Coast Parkway)
Call Irene at 6252-8408 or email us at Irene@fathers.com.sg to register for the above event


Single (Divorced) Fathers Circle


A small group has commenced regular weekly meetings at our centre every Thursday. Next meetings: Thurs, 5 Jul and 26 Jul, 7.00 pm. Please call Philip Chang (M) 9238-8711 or email Irene@fathers.com.sg if you want to join us.

101 WAYS TO ENJOY YOUR FAMILY -

INVITATION TO CONTRIBUTE INSPIRING FAMILY STORIES


The National Family Council is inviting fathers to contribute to a book entitled 101 WAYS TO ENJOY YOUR FAMILY which will be on sale in major book stores in Nov/Dec 07. If you like to share your story, please contact us (tell: 6252-8408 or email Irene@fathers.com.sg) for more information. The deadline for the article is 13 July. For those who do not want to pen their own story, a phone interview can be arranged for a writer to take down your story.

IDA Seeks Parents’ Views on Students’ Choice of Study and Career Options
The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) invites you to participate in a ‘Parents Focus Group’ session to share your views on the factors you would consider when advising your children on their choice of study, career options, as well as your impressions of a career in the infocomm industry.
Date: 31 Jul 07 (Tue)
Time: 5.30-6.30pm
Venue: Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore, 8 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec Tower Three, #14-00
Contact Lay Suan at 6211.1132 or lee_lay_suan@ida.gov.sg to register for the above event.

If you find this e-mail helpful, please forward it to others who are interested. To subscribe or unsubscribe Fathering Matters, please send us a email at fatheringmatters@fathers.com.sg or check out our website at www.fathers.com.sg. Thank you.


Happy Fathering!
Jennifer and family

Friday, June 15, 2007

Happy Father's Day! - Beef Stew Recipe

Well, it's time for Father's Day again!

Want a great Beef Stew Recipe for dear hubby or daddy?

Well, Dave and Kathy are doing their wonders again... in the kitchen!

Well, you can have assess to this lovely dish with the recipe and a video to watch here.

Enjoy and have a Great Father's Day!

Jennifer

Tuesday, May 15, 2007

Cooks' Bloopers

Dear Friends

My friend, Dave and his wife - Kathy, are such fun people and you could watch their bloopers here:


Like them? You could just drop your comments at their blog.

I, especially love their recipes.


Jennifer

Singapore Children Not Eating Right

Hi concerned parents and especially mothers...

I just came across this article with the above heading... and the subheading "Mother knows best... or does she?" really put the pressure on us (mothers)!

As if we do not already have the pressure and having to tackle this very issue day in and day out, these headings really put a punch into our faces.

I REALLY wonder who they surveyed. I believe many educated mothers are quite well-informed about nutrition and are constantly exchanging ideas as to how they could better themselves in this area. Everyone should know of the inclusion of fruits and vegetables in their children's diets are crucial. Many can't control their children's eating (myself included) of snacks and tibits since the school or childcare center they go to often "provide" them - at the canteen or birthday goodie bags. I am guilty of allowing my younger son to snack but as long as he's taking his due meals and snacks only after he had his meals, I think it's fine but also in moderate amounts.

The article came with a sample meal suggestion that one may try it out. Even though I know my younger son will never try them at all but if he does, it'll be a VERY SLOW process ... well, better than nothing.

Best of wishes to all struggling mothers out there.
Jennifer @ www.my-personal-development-secrets.com

Tuesday, May 8, 2007

Babies Watching Too Much TV

Good Day!

This morning, my attention was skewed to a caption on MSN.com with regards to the above issue.

There's so many debates on this issue and nevertheless, is an on-going issue for every parent.

To find out what are the reseachers are taking about, read the full article.

In my own opinion, it still boils down to how the children learn - what're their ways of learning, calls for different methods of teaching and exposure.

I do admit that my older boy learns from watching educational VCDs and even TV. Yet these same VCDs do not work for my younger boy. While my nieces reacted differently to them and at different stages (in terms of their ages).

With different types of learning styles coupled with different personalities, preferences and tastes in the make-up of individual children (even with siblings); you will have to undertake different teaching plans and tools.

A father was telling me the other day that his older son is left-handed who has a different brain wiring, the boy learns his spellings through color-coded words.

E.g. the word "brother":
The "bro" is in red while "ther" is in blue.

He cannot learn the word even if you first underline "bro" and then underline "ther" with a pencil for him ... which works well with my older son while my younger son is attracted to words with background colors in his favourite color spectrum.

While my older son is independent in his learning, my younger one prefers group learning.

So, when it comes to the issue of how long must a child be exposed to TV ... there's no conclusive evidence as to what guidelines stand true.

My best bet is "moderation" since nowadays, there's more violence and sex on broadcast TV.

Also, outdoor exposure and exercises that help children boast their physical growth and health must NEVER be neglected. What's the point with lots of wealth and knowledge if you do not have the health to help you prolong their uses.

Parents are bombarded with so many research reviews that sometimes they skewed towards one side and lost tract of what's more important - focusing on each child's unique individuality and talents ... not forgetting buidling up their souls too. With materialism, genuine concern for others can easily be lost and thus, more social problems and violence.

.... the verdict still lies with the parents ... who are the ones who have the reign over their children.

God bless!
Jennifer
http://www.my-personal-development-secrets.com

Sunday, May 6, 2007

Making The Best Apple French Toast for Mother's Day

Dear Friends

Still wondering what to do for Mother's Day?

Well, my friends - Dan and wife, Kathy at DVO Enterprises - had just wipped up a video of making Apple French Toast ... try it for yourselves too, Mums ... if your kids are still too young to do one for you.


They also have great tips and recipes for you:

* Start Your Day Right
* Preparing for Breakfast
* Making Meals (Cook'n Demo)
* Friends? (humor)

And much, much more...Check it out here!

Best Wishes for Mother's Day!

Jennifer and family!

P.S. Please feel free to tell your friends about this.

Thursday, April 26, 2007

New Creative Kids Crafts and Games Link at "Fun Activities"

Dear parents and children

Want to get some creative juices running, try some creative crafts at home on a rainy day or during hot afternoons.




I have also include this link on the right-hand side for your future convenience. Just look for the logo!

Enjoy!
Jennifer
http://www.my-personal-development-secrets.com/mind.html


Saturday, April 14, 2007

Funny Animations

Hi Friends,

Have a good laugh with me ... a mini movie for your entertainment.



Enjoy!
Javier Chia

Dancing Instructors - Kozo, Hippo & Dog

Want to learn to booggie?!! Learn from Kozo (Jamba) the Purple Dancing Hippo!



Another dance by Kozo, click here.

Also, to dance to YMCA?!! Check the dance steps the Disco Style by this pair - the Hippo and the Dog:



Like the Lion King? Here's the theme song The Lion Sleeps Tonight performed by Hippo and The Dog:



Enjoy, Everyone!
Jasper Chia

Tuesday, April 10, 2007

Alkaline Diet - Learn More ABout Alkalinity! Go Green!

Dear Health Awarerers

Experiencing the Heat Wave lately?!!

Need to learn more about your body's alkalinity?

Here's a f*r*e*e video from Anthony Robbins - Power of Alkalinity.

Great tips from Tony!

Go get your notebook and pen ready... before you click on the free video.

To Your Health!
Jennifer
http://www.my-personal-development-secrets.com

Great Carrot Cake Recipe - Fun & Healthy!


Dear Parents, Kids and Cooking Fanatics

Want to get cracking at a great carrot cake recipe - not to mention fun and healthy!

To view how to make it... my friend, Dave and his lovely wife, Kathy; had a video and the recipe here.

Wednesday, April 4, 2007

Soul Winner's Handy Guide By Y.T. Wee

Hi Everyone!

Wow! These past weeks had been hectic!

As Easter is just round the corner, the church that I'm visiting - Shaddai Baptist Church - has this monthly tracting and last Saturday, everyone was gearing up with the preparation to do door-to-door witnessing alongside tracting.

Boy, was I nervous!!! I had prepared a script but didn't really used it because I was too tongue-tied to begin with and couldn't remember a single thing I wrote! HAA!!!

I didn't really, I mean
DEADLY SERIOUS; in consideration of how strong my faith should be let alone to learn in depth until I viewed a video titled Countdown to Eternity two weeks ago about End-times. I was REALLY SHAKEN to the core!! Let me explain what awaken me most:

The coming of an Anti-Christ who will be the Head of the World Government
and looking at the various countries' movement towards one; and the pace of technology at the implantation of microchips into human beings coming into reality (WELCOME TO THE MATRIX, folks!) ... truly shows the mention of "the mark of the Beast" to be inevitable.


Fellow readers,
Hell is a real thing and a sure way for non-Christians and sinning "Christians". Check out the Bible verses. The Greatest Lie of the Devil is that "we still have time to decide."
As I write this, my heart is heavily burdened that Untold Millions Are Still Untold!

For every Christians and non-Christians, I would like to suggest the above-mentioned book to read.

If you do not already own one, click here to download your first 47 pages of the guide (needs Abode Reader).

To make your e-purchase internationally.

To purchase in Singapore, it is only available in Shalom Baptist Church at 121 Dover Road, Anglo-Chinese School (Independent). Tel: 6463 7910 / Fax: 6469 5503 - Do call ahead of going there since they only used the Lectures Halls for Services.

I encourage you to read it and come to your own conclusion and not be blinded due to ignorance.

God Bless!
Jennifer
http://www.my-personal-development-secrets.com

Tuesday, April 3, 2007

Happy Mother's Day!


To All Mothers (including mine),
A Happy Mother's Day!

We need not show our appreciations only on this day, but throughout the year; as there will come the days when we will not be able to celebrate it except with our own children.

Enjoy!
Thejs-family

Stressed Out By Everything In Your Life?! - Remember: Slow is Fast, Fast is Slow

Dear Troubled Ones

Recently, a friend and myself (both mothers) had been through some "bad situations and predicaments" and were unable to untangle ourselves from the many responsibilities and duties that call upon us - our own personal life, our children's new challenges and demands on us, our work, our household responsibilities and duties - all suddenly donned on us to be too massive.

My dear husband knew of my stressful predicaments and so happened to come through the following article by Stephen Covey titled "First things First".

After reading the article, my mind somehow dwell on these words "slow is fast, fast is slow", and I suddenly found myself re-channelling my energies to what most mattered to me then - writing my script for door-to-door witnessing with my church members last Saturday. It was a great day for tracting and meeting people and managed to share the gospel with a few young people. Come to think of it, this was my greatest fear - witnessing - and I had been so stressed out by it that my other projects and life responsibilities began to add up and looked like a giant snowball!

I hope that, to all who is facing mounting tasks and responsibilities; will benefit from reading this article.

Shared by Jennifer
www.my-personal-development-secrets.com

Tuesday, March 27, 2007

Easter - Receive A Free Gift - Be Saved & Celebrate! (Part 3)

Here's the rest - Part 3:
The GOOD NEWS is Jesus Christ - The Only Way! (John 14:6)

We need to constantly admit that we are sinners and seek His forgiveness.
In our current world, sins are always tempting you and I from becoming righteous. As Christians (new and old), we must constantly be cautious and not fall back into sin for the Bible mentioned that when we fall back to sin, we are back to belonging to the darkness. Christians must always keep a self-watching eye to stay on the righteous path.

We need to know that Jesus (alone) had taken all the world's sin upon His sinless self and died on the Cross of Calvary for us, and rose again (resurrected) 3 days later.
You need to acknowledge the fact that it was ONLY Jesus - God's Begotten Son - who had the authority and power to wash you of your sins with His Blood shed on Calvary. No other had and will ever be able to do so. Jesus took your place to pay for your sins! Christ's arms were nailed wide open to receive all who will come to God for forgiveness!

We need to repent, confess our sins. We need to seek forgiveness from God.
By now, you have realized that you are a sinner and that Jesus had paid for your sin.
What are you to do next?

You pray to God to confess all your sins and in your heart, be willing to repent and cut yourself completely from all sins and not commit them anymore from this minute on. Ask God for His Grace and Forgiveness.

We need to accept Jesus as our personal Savior.
Most importantly, you must trust in and accept Jesus into your heart and make Him your own personal Savior. He in turn will call upon the Holy Spirit to help you to live righteous in the sight of God.

This is a very serious decision in your life.
If God decides to take your life and declare death upon you the minute you click away from this page or this very night, will you still be sure you are going to Heaven or Hell?

Wait no longer... be VERY SURE!

Listen Now

From your heart, pray aloud this prayer:
Dear God, I know I am a sinner. Please forgive my sins. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins, was buried and arose again the third day. I acknowledge Jesus as the Lord of my life and promise to live an obedient life as taught in God's Word. I want Jesus to come into my heart right now and save me. I pray in Jesus' Name. Amen.

For new Christians, read the 10 Principles for new Christians.
Here's a bookmark of the Ten Commandments.


God Bless Your Soul!
Jennifer
http://www.my-personal-development-secrets.com/soul.html

Easter - Receive a Free Gift - Be Saved & Celebrate! (Part 2)

Welcome to Part 2:
However, I discovered that (even I already knew) that No One Will Enter Heaven because of our sinful nature. There's a standard of holiness - The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) - which everyone cannot keep them all!

Let's us just look at 4 Commandments for instance:

1. "Thou shall not lie" - we all do that ... even when we are already Christian ... thinking since white lies don't hurt anyone, it's OK ... NO! It's not OK with God! A lie is a lie and we call this person a liar!

2. "Thou shall not steal" - we did that some point of time in our own lives - when we were very young and even when the value of the things we stole may be negligible ... it is still stealing. Such a person will be branded as a thief!

3. "Thou shall not commit adultery" - at some point of time we would at a woman (even a man) and in our stirred a desire for that person - such is lust and being an adulterer! The Bible said that even when we just look on her/him, we already committed adultery in our hearts (Matthew 5:28).

4. "Thou shall not take the name of your Lord in vain" -
many people (including myself in the past) had use His Holy Name in our swearing. The Bible calls this blasphemy! When one does that, he/she is a blasphemer!

The Bible clearly stated in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 and Revelation 21:8 that such sinful people - liars, thieves, adulterers, blasphemers, and all other wickedness - will not inherit Eternal Heaven and instead be sent to Eternal Hell - the lake of fire which never ceases.

You and I are guilty of all these when Jesus comes again on Judgement Day. Hell is a real place!
(Matthew 13:49-50)


Listen Now


More to come...
Jennifer
http://www.my-personal-development-secrets.com

Easter - Receive A Free Gift - Be Saved & Celebrate! (Part 1)

As you've learnt from my earlier post of what Easter is truly about, let me elaborate more...

Many people believe that they will be going to heaven after they die while others just acknowledge the fact that there's Heaven and Hell.

In this whole wide world of belief-systems, I couldn't find much consolation from many religions and their books. But only ONE - the HOLY BIBLE!

Upon a recent challenge from church members to write a script on how to witness to people, I began a journey of search, research and discovery:

Many who were witnessed to before would have realized by now that there are Heaven and Hell.

Listen Now

May God Bless Your Soul!
Jennifer
http://www.my-personal-development-secrets.com

The True Meaning Of Easter!

Dear Family and Friends

Do you know the true meaning behind Easter?

Well ... it's NOT about Easter Eggs and Easter Bunny!

It is the Day where Jesus Christ was risen from the Dead:

Good Friday is observed in remembrance of Jesus' execution by the occupying Roman army, and his burial in a cave-tomb.

Easter Sunday is the date when a group of his female followers first noticed the empty tomb, and concluded that he had been resurrected or "risen from the dead".

Here's an e-card from hallmark for your viewing:
http://www.hallmark.com/ECardWeb/ECV.jsp?a=1172992293075M000000N&product_id=

Enjoy!
Thejs-family

Friday, March 23, 2007

Movies Alert @ National Museum of Singapore


The Son of the Sheik
by George Fitzmaurice
1926 / USA / 72 min / Silent with music score by Jack Ward
A Programme of the National Museum Cinémathèque

Sat 31 Mar 2007
8pm
Gallery Theatre, National Museum of Singapore
Tickets: $8

The legendary Rudolph Valentino, one of the most iconic stars of silent cinema, stars in this visually intoxicating sequel to his career-defining The Sheik, portraying a hot-blooded young man who is lured into a thieves’ trap by a beautiful dancer, played by Vilma Banky.

An epitome of the grandeur and romance of early Hollywood silent cinema, The Son of the Sheik’s sultry beauty and torrid power are derived from the exotic romance which saturates every frame. More than anything that would follow in the fast-approaching sound era, this desert romance relied thoroughly on sex appeal. Valentino's own, of course, bordered on mythical proportions, but Vilma Banky was awarded just as many loving close-ups and she photographed luminously. The culmination of all this cinematic lust remains Valentino, on his indigo horse, kidnapping dancing girl Banky, whom he mistakenly accuses of having betrayed him. "I may not be your first victim," he hisses to a prostrate Vilma in the film’s most memorable line, "but, by Allah, I shall be the one you remember!"

Widely hailed as the best film of Valentino’s career, The Son of the Sheik is also his last work. Eight days after the premiere of the film, Valentino collapsed and died at the age of 31. His death sparked off a public hysteria and his funeral attracted an unprecedented crowd of more than 80,000 people on the streets of New York City.

The Son of the Sheik is part of the Arabian Dreams film programme of Under the Crescent Moon festival. The other film of the Arabian Dreams programme, The Adventures of Prince Achmed featuring live music by The Analog Girl, screens on Sat 24 Mar 2007.

Ticketing

Counter Sales
Stamford Visitor Services Counter, 10am - 8pm
Canning Visitor Services Counter, 10am - 5pm

Concession rates at 20% discount are available. For more information and online booking, please visit:
http://www.nationalmuseum.sg/crescent_moon

Ticketing enquiries, call (65) 6332 3659 / (65) 6332 0111

All information is correct at time of printing. The Museum reserves the right to make changes and modifications to the programmes without prior notice. The National Museum of Singapore is located at 93 Stamford Road, S(178897). The nearest MRT station is at Dhoby Ghaut. Please note that no parking facilities are available at the National Museum of Singapore premises. Drivers are advised to park their cars at YMCA or Park Mall.

Enjoy!
Jennifer @ My Personal Development Secrets.com

Thursday, March 8, 2007

Health Issues - Raising Healthy Children in Trans-Fats World

Dear Concerned Parents and Readers

We hear so many news of trans-fats and where they are commonly found - in foods that both children and adults loved - chips, crackers, doughnuts, etc.

Here's a good news that the FDA (USA) had regulated that all in the food industry is to label their products with the amount of trans-fats in them ... so do check out the labels and check for as near 0 (zero) trans-fats as possible.

Go here and click on the video "Raising Healthy Kids" to learn tips on how to do so - for you and your family's sake.

I also suggest watching "Detox Your Diet: Eating for Energy" and pick up some Yoga exercises too!

Enjoy!
Jennifer

Tuesday, March 6, 2007

Free ebooks Download

Dear Friends and Parents

Interested in reading more inspirational, motivational and other emotions-, body-, mind-, and soul-related books?

I have placed many titles in my website under "free ebooks and resources".

Don't forget to read on the articles and some inspirational stories.

Also, not forgetting those motivational videos by many from the personal development industry!

Hey... it's all FREE!!! Do make use of them! Take your pick, click here.

You are also welcome to free browse on the recommended books and titles I had listed with Amazon.com.

Jennifer

Sunday, March 4, 2007

Personal Development-Schools and Home

Dear Friends and Parents

Many months back, I came across an ezine discussing about the importance of personal development in schools.

I could not agree more ... however, I would like to add that it is important at home too.

Late last year, I was at one of the branch library and witness a screaming mother with her 6 or 7 yo child and husband at the service counter. It appeared that either the child had borrowed a VCD and had not returned it at all; or that their premium membership had expired and needed renewal. Apparently, it seems that the parents are lowly-educated and hold low-paid job and couldn't afford the $30+ at all. The mother scolded the child with so much of those 3-lettered words, my heart went out to the child.

On recounting my childhood, I am thankful that I didn't have to go through such similar bad experiences despite that fact that my mother having had no education whilst my father had little education.

This brings me back to the topic of personal development - they must have picked up something in this segment of life and didn't subject their children to any of these ... in fact, we seen these in the world outside our family instead.

To everyone who is a parent in these modern times, we ourselves need personal development ... so why don't us also teach them to our children as we learn in this department. Pass it on.

So often these days, we heard of so many teenage problems on the rise ... if our children are still young, despite of our busy schedules, we need to spend quantitative time and teach them to have better self-esteem.

Jennifer
http://www.my-personal-development-secrets.com

Sunday, February 25, 2007

Fictions Anyone?

Dear Parents and friends

Been to the Library recently?

Well, I came across a quiz on "fiction genres" - a particular style of literature/art/music recognizable by its particular subject or form e.g. a heart shape stands for Romance or a Disney-liked castle for Fantasy!

I filled it up (just for fun :) and was given a token of my choice) and they just emailed me with the following information which I find very helpful to everyone (if you had not done so).


If you are new to fiction reading, you could pick up Genre Guides on Horror, Mystery, Science Fiction, Romance and Fantasy at the public libraries' racks.

If you have any enquiries on fiction, direct an email to FictionAdvisory@nlb.gov.sg.
Also, you might wish to take a look at NLB website/blog for more information on the genres.
Here's the link: http://dl.nlb.gov.sg/ask/fiction/

You could do a search for any titles or authors at NLB's catalogue before making a trip down.
To do so, click here.
(Don't forget to bookmark this on your favourites
- great time saver for wasted trips to the wrong branch!)

Parents, don't just pick titles for your children only
... you too deserve a good read!

Have a bountiful find at the Library!
Jennifer

Looking for Inspirational Stories and Motivation Videos?

Dear Parents and Friends

To all who is looking for more inspiration and motivation ( if you had not visited my website yet) ; you will find these "food for your mind, soul, body and emotion" too.

For the inspirational stories, go here.

For the motivational videos, click here.

Enjoy!

Jennifer
http://www.my-personal-development-secrets.com

Friday, February 23, 2007

New Inspiring Ebook, Lefthanded Soldiers - Get Your free Chapters!


Dear Parents and Friends

So very often, we need to get new inspirations before the daily chores of life carry us through year in and year out without any "mercy" of our personal needs as individuals.

Be inspired and keep being inspired is one great personal development motto I had adopted over the past 2 years.

Just received news of a new ebook ... Lefthanded Soldiers ...

Go to my personal development blog to find out more:
http://my-personal-development-secrets.blogspot.com/

Enjoy!
Jennifer

Thursday, February 15, 2007

A Happy and Prosperous Chinese New Year

Dear Beloved Family and Friends,

Here's wishing all abundance in
happiness and health
in every possible ways to everyone!

An e-card for your enjoyment:
http://www.hallmark.com/ECardWeb/ECV.jsp?a=5992902295073M000000N&product_id=

Gong-Xi Gong-xi from Thejs-Family

A Belated Valentine's Wish

Dear Family and Friends

We believe that Valentine's Day should be an all-year long affair and NEVER a one-day affair.

Keep your passion with your spouse and love for your children, family members and friends.

Here's a card for your viewing:
http://www.hallmark.com/ECardWeb/ECV.jsp?a=0471362290074M179443598Y&product_id=

Enjoy!
The js-Family

Friday, February 9, 2007

2 more videos from another branch's children

Like to learn to Do The Twist?!! Well, let's check out how these N2 young ones do it!
(Video URL:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hj6r_VvT7LI)


Love to hear the popular number - That Thing You Do - again? Well, this is performed by the K1 class' children:

(Video URL:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9bVhyFR3RI)

Well, done children! Great performance! Thank you for the wonderful choreography, teachers!

Wednesday, February 7, 2007

Fun Activities Column

Dear Friends

1.Looking for some optical illusion fun but no time to visit the Science Centre? Well, we have included one site with this great fun!

One illusion is seen at http://www.coolopticalillusions.com/eye-tricks/illusion-semi-trucks.htm

Read the descriptions after you couldn't figure out the pictures shown.

Don't forget to download any DIY (Do-It-Yourself) projects (in PDF files) as you review the site e.g. the Penrose Triangle. Have fun making them with your kids!

2. Love mental games and challenges?
Check out this site
Archimedes' Laboratory - for active minds and puzzle enthusiasts - full of fun things like original number games, optical illusions, puzzles with downloadable pieces, paradoxical and perplexing stuff, and even a gift shop.

We had placed their homepage links under Fun Activities on the right column for future easy access. Enjoy!

Arrival of the Pink Panthers!

Prepare... for the invasion of the Pink Panthers!

Part 1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pW2DPaoz1ks):


Part 2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MoFbUEpFdwI):

Great Choreography by the Teacher-in-charge!

Tuesday, February 6, 2007

"Hey Ya" by PH-K2

Here is the English Song Video that you have been waiting to watch - Parts 1 & 2.

Special Thanks to Teacher Lizam for the great
choreography!

Part 1 -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3GMV2ww8DY

Part 2 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8tZLto_ghE

Enjoy! A parent requested for the Pink Panther performance ... I'll try to get it up tomorrow.


Mambo No. 5 by PH-K1(2006) Class

Dear parents of this class, here's the long-awaited video - Part 1 and 2.

On behalf of the parents of the children in this class: Thank you Teacher Fida!

Part 1's URL at YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HksTdkcQXRE


Part 2's URL at YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jB3u2WAGZ24



Coming Up Next will be Hey Ya by PH-K2!

Chinese Songs: "A Li Shan" (PH-K2) and "Bian Dan" (Blk104-K2)

For those who requested these Chinese Songs' videos earlier... here they are! Enjoy...

Performance by PH-K2 class titled A Li Shan:

It's URL is
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnOhh5Akr4Y
"XieXie Yang Lao Shi" (Thank you Teacher Yang) for the great performance!


Performance by Blk 104-K2 class titled Bian Dan:

It's URL is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjKYOz0RfAo

"Great Performance put up! Thank you, Teacher."

Next to expect Mambo #5!

Monday, February 5, 2007

2006 Graduation & "2 Hands 1 Heart"

Dear Family and Friends

We have just uploaded 2 more videos for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy!

#1: K2 Graduation Class of 2006

The URL is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-G_UvV6BN6s
A "Special Thank You" from all the parents and children to their teachers, principal and supervisors!

#2: "2 Hands 1 Heart" Performance by 2006-N2 Class (Playhouse)

This video's URL is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ovoVwDlkTg
"Thank You, Teacher Regina" for the beautiful song and choreography.

Friday, February 2, 2007

Video K1-2005 Concert

For the parents who had missed the 2005 Concert by their children in the K1 class. The video is made into 2 parts as file size of the performance was too big.

Enjoy! Pardon the "favouritism" in the angle of shooting the videos.

We're not sure if you can download them. If possible, we'll inform you later on how or where.

To Teacher Lizam from Jennifer (Jasper's Mum): "Great job! Thank you for the performance."

Here's Part 1:




Here's Part 2:


Intro and Update


Intro:
Hi! Everyone who would like to read about the happenings in our family members' lives, this is where to read about it.

We'll be posting videos of annual concerts for any other parents interested to review them.

Wherever possible, we'll post on various events and activities happening for all to read and join in.

Welcome to post your comments (alternatively chat directly in the moss green Cbox on the right-hand side) - only nice ones please! No need to be a critic for once in our lives ... this is just all for fun and enjoyment!

News Update:

Currently, Jennifer is building a website relating to personal development.
The website: http://www.my-personal-development-secrets.com
Her web-blog: http://my-personal-development-secrets.blogspot.com/

Jasper's form teacher has also created a blog to update about his class' school life, do feel free to read about it.

Will try to upload Jasper's past 2 years' concert at K1 & K2 as soon as we can.