giving thanks =)

since ps gloria was talking about having a checklist of thanksgiving, here's mine because i think these people deserve a public ovation for what they've been to me for the year 2008 =)

God:
you have never failed to remind me of Your goodness, mercy and forgiveness. The year would never been complete without you.

Monica:
thank you for being understanding of the changes I've been going through. Through the rough time you were there to care and ask and not judge me. it's priceless.

Connie, Colleen, Elaine, Belhu:
haha... the notorious "flower sisters"... I totally enjoyed going out with the four of you... the endless photo taking sessions... scheming for Bel's surprise birthday at her own house. Talking nonsense to relieve stress.. praying together and facebooking photo comments..

I could go on with so many memories, but I'd like to give thanks for your friendship, fellowship and support. My year would not have been so fun-filled and memorable if it wasn't for our outings together. Let's make more memories in 2009!!!

Clement Hu:
who would know such a quiet chap would bring so much joy and entertainment! you might seem quiet but inside you have so much to say and think about. having you along for our outings definitely made it all the more joyful and memorable. Thanks for being our "undercover spy" for your sister's birthday. not to mention the other places we went together like the Agricultural Park, Korean BBQ, lunch after church and so many other occasions. You're a part of us as much as we are a part of you :)

Mr. Fan:
Thank you for being the understanding employer that you are always. I'm not an easy-going employee and my temper gets the best of me and its more than once [sorry!] that I've come storming into your office demanding to be heard :P

You are an inspiration in how you deal with all the situations that have cropped up in 2008 for GRC. I look forward to going another year with you and the other staff to make God's fame even more known through this ministry!

Uncle Kevin:
I give thanks for the spiritual input, guidance and advice given. You're like a father to me at times because you care and you watch out for me and all the other children in GRC. Not to mention encouraging me to walk another mile when I am tired and helping me to get a set of wheels to drive to work :)

Soph Chong ;)
When you left to do your O Levels it was kinda tough on me. I've learnt to look at you not just as a student, but as a friend and someone who understands me though there's a 10 year age gap between the two of us.

Watching you grow as a teenager has been joyful as I've seen how you dealt with issues of the heart and how you refused to let those dark times hold you down. You are always ready to look to God and give it one more go. True, there were depressing moments, but you never allowed youself to wallow in despair for long :)

Even now, though I don't see you in school anymore, I'm thankful we still keep in touch through MSN. It's cool to be able to have someone to talk to and share about stuff that I go through as well. Haha, though I wonder if you ever think why an adult like me would come to a teen and open up... that's because you're mature beyond your age :)

God bless you, love you lots kiddo ;)

Lydia Chang:
Thank you for literally helping me out in any area in the school. I know this year has been tiring for you. I promise to ease your burden in 2009. Your help and input this year has been valuable and I'm grateful for that. Your leadership and care for your fellow friends in school has not gone unnoticed. Though they irritate you to no end at times, you still choose to love, accept and guide.

I pray that in 2009 you will accomplish well in your studies and God will prepare you for a new stage of your life even as graduation approaches. I will be there for you to help you as much as I can. It's a promise :)

My kids:
Sometimes when people ask me how many children I have [as if i'm married] I love to tell them I have 109 of them. And the number will continue to grow every year I think ;)

Thank you for making me who the person I am this year. We've had a great time doing a lot of stuff in 2008. It's been a year of achievement, so many of you have taken the extra effort in your studies and in your character development as well. There were times when we thought it wouldn't work out, but somehow, God pulled us through some tough times.

It's my hope and prayer that next year we'll conquer even more mountains for God's glory. That we will be able to arise and shine for the glory of God. I look forward to 2009 when we shift to a bigger place and watch how this family at GRC will grow and expand :)

Love you, kiddoes =)

* of course the list could go on... but don't take offence if i didn't mention your name. I AM grateful for each and everyone of you whom I do know and gotten to know. God bless you as well!