Lawrence and Christine Family Blog

Remember Dr. Bruce Wilkinson? Yes, the one who brought us The Secret of the Vines. As I missed a series he did for the family, I started that with my family this week - The Heart that Makes a Home.

It was excellent as it manage to open up and deal with many known issues in my home! A must read for all husbands and wives in our family.The study is classified into six sessions and you only need the course workbook to get started.

Useful Tips include

• Don't let your husband have a mind of his own...join him!
• There's a fine line between a job well done and a job, well...done.
• In a Godly marriage, help is only a heartbeat away
• The first principles to obey are the ones we know today

Posted in: on Tuesday, October 31, 2006 at 0 comments  

Thank God last Friday, Helena could join us for dinner and prayer. It's extremely tough for her being in her new job (Yamaha music school), yet have the desire to join us for fellowship.

But we miss Robert's family and Nigel's, they being so drained by the week's events. Ban should be back in town this week and we hope to see him at Lani's place for this Friday's SF.

Posted in: Friends Update on Sunday, October 29, 2006 at 0 comments  

As opposed to the west, Halloween is nothing but a fad or a notion it's a day to have some fun. But it's always helpful to at least revisit its very origin and be able to respond when needed.

Hundreds of years before the birth of Christ, the Celts, inhabitants of Britain and Ireland, observed a festival on October 31st. Unlike modern-day Halloween, theirs was no children's holiday. The Celts and their priests, the Druids, celebrated Samhain, a festival that marked the eve of the Celtic New Year, which began on November 1.

The fall harvest was complete and winter loomed ahead. The Celts believed the power of the sun was fading. For the next several months, darkness would prevail.

The Celts believed that during Samhain the veil separating the living from the dead was at its thinnest. They believed that on the evening of October 31, evil spirits and the souls of the dead passed through the barrier and entered the world of the living. Departed family members would revisit their earthly homes.

The thought was frightening -- and exciting! The Celts believed these spirits and dead souls could torment the living. Crops might be destroyed, babies stolen, farm animals killed. But this was also an opportunity to commune with the spirits and divine the future. The Devil, the lord of darkness, was ordinarily feared, but during Samhain, his power would be called on to foretell the future.

To learn to respond appropriately, click [here]

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Every guy in the family must remember the day when we spent much of our time in an arcade, trying out every game machine that resembled fun. Now, to relive those good old days, I present the coolest game of the week to be played right from your PC!

Check it out [here]

Have fun!

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From our yesterday's meeting, I conclude the need to write this article. From your eyes, I just know we are overrun, dragged, zapped and completely drained. Controlling our work day is sure a tough nut to crack, even for veterans who's been working for twenty years. No one is spared. No one is given a free access pass. So, like everybody, the race intensified and it's about time we take back what belongs to us with a nice twist...by learning how to control our workday.

When you're not clear and focused on your highest priority todos, getting out the door on a regular workday with a sense of accomplishment is impossible. Rush Hour - that last hour (or two or three) of the day - becomes your stressful closing window to get to the stuff you thought you had all day to accomplish a mere 8 hours earlier.

1. Get one thing done first - THEN check your email

Author of Never Check Email in the Morning Julie Morgenstern suggests spending the first hour of your workday email-free. Choose one task - even a small one - and tackle it first thing. Accomplishing something out of the gate sets the tone for the rest of your day and guarantees that no matter how many fires you're tasked with putting out the minute you open your email client, you still can say that you got something done.

2. Deliberately choose your MIT

You've got a million things to do every day, but chances are there are 1 or 2 that are top priority. Even if you're not big on fancy-schmancy prioritized todo lists, you can probably identify one or two Most Important Tasks (MIT) for a given day. Write it down and place it somewhere you will see it, even if it's a Post-It note on your keyboard. Monday morning when you arrive? That's the first thing you're going to do. No matter what.

3. Get your priorities straight

It doesn't feel like it - especially at the beginning of what seems like a long work day - but your time is limited. There are only a certain amount of hours in the day, but there are an unlimited number of things you could work on. Make sure you work on the most important tasks.

4. Make post-work appointments

If your kid has to be picked up at daycare at 5:30, or your buddy's waiting for you at the bowling alley, or you've got reservations with your other half for dinner, chances are your butt's going to be up and out of your desk chair on time. Make dates with yourself or friends for the gym, a movie, or simply dinner at home at 6 sharp to get yourself out the door on time.

5. Wrap-up alerts

One last "get out of the office on time" trick: decide what time you're going to leave at the beginning of the day, and set a "wrap-up" timer. If Love is cooking you dinner tonight and you need out the door at 6PM, set an alert to go off at 5PM, 5:30, 5:45 and 5:55 (more, if necessary) saying "Hey! Time to wrap up and get home!" Prepare yourself mentally to start closing up shop ahead of time so you're not surprised when your spouse calls at 6:30 wondering where the heck you are.

Posted in: on Saturday, October 28, 2006 at 1 comments  

Ywa, I know. It's an uphill challenge to keep your PC being infected with malicious code called Spyware and till now, programs like Spybots and Lavasoft just doesn't cut the job.

Move aside...Hot on the heels of Internet Explorer 7 comes the final version of Windows Defender, the anti-spyware tool that's been in beta for nearly two years.

Windows Defender, previously known as Windows AntiSpyware, offers real-time protection from spyware threats. The big news about the final release: It's still free, and Microsoft is even offering two free phone-support calls per user.

Get yours [here]

Posted in: Technology on Friday, October 27, 2006 at 0 comments  

Worms are programs that replicate themselves from system to system without the use of a host file. This is in contrast to viruses, which requires the spreading of an infected host file. Although worms generally exist inside of other files, often Word or Excel documents, there is a difference between how worms and viruses use the host file. Usually the worm will release a document that already has the "worm" macro inside the document. The entire document will travel from computer to computer, so the entire document should be considered the worm W32.Mydoom.AX@mm is an example of a worm

Trojan horses are impostors—files that claim to be something desirable but, in fact, are malicious. A very important distinction between Trojan horse programs and true viruses is that they do not replicate themselves. Trojan horses contain malicious code that when triggered cause loss, or even theft, of data. For a Trojan horse to spread, you must invite these programs onto your computers; for example, by opening an email attachment or downloading and running a file from the Internet. Trojan.Vundo is a Trojan horse.

A computer virus is a small program written to alter the way a computer operates, without the permission or knowledge of the user. A virus must meet two criteria: It must execute itself. It often places its own code in the path of execution of another program. It must replicate itself. For example, it may replace other executable files with a copy of the virus infected file. Viruses can infect desktop computers and network servers alike.

Updated by Darren

Posted in: on Thursday, October 26, 2006 at 0 comments  

As discussed, ClamWin limitation in slow drive scan for viruses will justify a weekly scan schedule as opposed to a daily scan but at least provide a very basic safety net against virus intrusion on PCs that currently are exposed.

Point of note is the huge lack of legal licenses and license type to cover any surprise legal auditing for this area and with the upcoming VPN connections to be set up in Asia Pacific, a platform that posts greater threats against overseas network threats.

We can relate ClamWin to Thunderbird in its strength in a strong development team and excellent commitment to improving this product over time.

Updated by Lawrence

Posted in: on Wednesday, October 25, 2006 at 0 comments  

As discussed, Microsoft made a poor implementation of the DNS service in their Microsoft Windows 2000 Server, having been crippled from the start not to update itself properly with external DNS.

An abstract point of note is given hereby to assist IT department to tackle this issue professionally. Conclusion points that end users' inability to access certain web sites are mainly due to absence of proper proxy settings in their web browser and limitation of Windows 2000 DNS service.

First, why do you only have one domain controller? There is no reason not to have a second DC. Server hardware is cheap these days and being able to authenticate users while the first DC is rebooting during your scheduled patch maintenance is a valuable benefit. Also, having two DC's eliminates the need for the following fixes, assuming the DC's are configured correctly.

The biggest issue for Active Directory with a lone DC is that dynamic registration of DNS records will consistently fail. DC's use the Netlogon service to register themselves in AD, when the Netlogon service starts the DC will try to register with a DDNS server. Unfortunately the Netlogon service starts before the DNS Server service does. Trying to correct this problem by adjusting dependencies in the Services applet will only cause more problems.

Overcome this limitation by configure Group Policy to run this script at startup on the domain controller. The script waits a minute after boot, then restarts the Netlogon service in order to properly register itself in DNS. You can adjust the timing as needed by simply editing the script. However, the script will not work unless the domain controller is configured with itself as the only DNS server in the NIC properties. Resolving outside hosts is done through the forwarders configured in the DNS Server service properties.

Obviously, all clients that connect to the domain must use the domain controller as their only DNS server for dynamic name registration and Active Directory lookups work properly. Never assign a domain client outside DNS servers because this will only cause problems if the domain controller is unavailable.

Updated by Lawrence

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The third and final Cisco 877 for HQ has been configured and delivered to client. Current reservation applies to a small group of end users who reported to have difficulty in accessing certain SSL web sites when switched to transport traffic across existing Cisco 877 router.

The Singnet Proxy - proxy2.singnet.com.sg (port 8080) must be set in each end user;s browser to enable enhanced surfing experience. Review is done currently to enable seamless Active Directory usage on Windows 2000 domain in the new network environment.

Updated by Lawrence

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Microsoft has today launched the final version of the complete Windows Defender solution - An effective yet free version Spyware Eliminator.

You can download a copy at [here]

Updated by Lawrence

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Let's continue where we left off (some weeks back) this Friday on this video series.

Posted in: on Tuesday, October 24, 2006 at 0 comments  

A highly recommended upgrade of the week for your end users if not done so already.

Download it [here]

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This article applies to IT Manager who would wish to disable the file transfer feature of Skype in the corporate LAN.

Simply perform the following registry changes on machines that have skype installed

Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Skype\Phone]
"DisableApi"=dword:00000001
"DisableFileTransfer"=dword:00000001

Updated by Darren

Posted in: on Monday, October 23, 2006 at 0 comments  

As a constant effort to keep our clients abreast with emerging technologies for business, part of that include informing our clients of what's new.

Microsoft's IE7 has just been lauched and we hereby flag out reservation of using it just yet as incompatibilities of existing web standards plague the new browser. Other factors include a higher memory footprint, slower performance. Several vulnerabilities have also been reported (previously not present in IE6) and we advise IT department to play a wait and see approach to this new browser.

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Indicated by some of you having to work this coming Tuesday (being a holiday), I would just like to propose to those free if doing something fun like watching the NFL (proposed by Robert/Brian) together would really move us away from the dead-beat schedule of ours.

Blog back and tell us if we can make it happen on Tuesday morning.

Remember, you don't need your id and password to reply via the tag board (located on the bottom right corner of the blog site)

Posted in: on Sunday, October 22, 2006 at 0 comments  

As discussed over sunday lunch today, the Internet revolution has changed many things in our lives, including how conventional TV channels get into our living rooms! Why pay when you can watch them legally free! No, I am not joking.

So, do check out a more popular site [here] if you want to start getting yourself updated with many channels around the world.

PS But be warned...only viewers with high-speed Internet (preferably 10mbps and above) need apply.

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I am sure we know our rewards for every work we've done in our Savior's name is amplified many folds (Lk. 6:23) in heaven but I would like to make mention of the efforts of love to individuals who has acted sacrificially for the family:

• John/Helena - Co-cook with HC many a times for SF voluntarily
• Brian/Robert - For giving tennis coaching services to those who want to play the sport
• John - For initiating travel trips and bookings to all in SF
• HC - Cook up wonderful meals each week while sending Robert and gang back home after SF
• Christine - For taking care of the needs of the youngest SF members - Douglas and Dave
• Ban (PaPa Bear 63 years old) -For giving his valuable experience and life lessons to all, when he can
• Reba - For imparting valuable kids-raising experience to young mother/s in family
• All the rest - For doing what we do best behind the curtain scenes for the SF

God bless this family!

Posted in: on Saturday, October 21, 2006 at 0 comments  

Yesterday's meeting was an excellent one, considering not just about the big turn out in numbers, but what was shared by those who could. Being made up of mostly asian, the issue to bring up real needs among the family is hindered by unfamiliarity among friends (a process that simply requires time) and the "closed" mindsets of the chinese race.

It's just the culture I guess, here, that voicing out needs is but a sign of weakness, ignorance or inferiority (as opposed to the western culture). The "face" issue is much more predominant among friends and that may just stack up to support our current mindset.

But, we are thankful for sharing made by Robert, Reba, Daisy, Nige, John and Ban, that truly transform our usual dining experience to a spiritually meaningful evening. Those prayer requests are real and the needs, urgent.

In so doing regularly, ample opportunity presents itself to improve also in our areas of weaknesses. I sure need that! Thanks everyone.

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Here's a good article to reclaim your time as a busy mother/mother-to-be...

Read [here]

Posted in: on Thursday, October 19, 2006 at 0 comments  

I want to thank God for HC once again, for accomodating the whole bunch of us this Friday at her place. Time is standard time. Food has always been ready when we arrive - big thanks to John and HC. If more of us can chip in to prepare food, it would be a more fun affair.

So, this Friday, my family will be bringing chicken...any side dishes will be a welcome. More importantly, please find a few moments to check out the following mini topics we hope to cover

• Character of an SF - A Brief Revisit
• Freeing more time for ourselves Today - What can be done?

Let me know if you are unable to join us this Friday by replying to this article below.

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Remember the days when we were still in college? Yah, the freedom to go the most interesting mall after the short morning lectures or drive to the outskirt to just spend a day in an aviation museum during a summer break...even date someone.

But hey, look at us today. Working in a cubicle 12 hours a day, eat 15-minute lunches and shuffles tons of papers for five to six days a week...for a corporate agenda we sometimes cannot rationalize. "Recharge" pitstops seems far in between. We are then further drained to fulfill our social responsibilities outside those hectic windows to fix a leaking pipe or visit a friend. How many minutes are we left for our own self...I say. Not many. In fact, according to corporate statistics, the longest interval before we get an interuption each day is approximately 11 minutes.

Let's stop everything we are doing now and revisit with me what needs to be done to address this challenge. We need more time for ourselves!

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A request was made a while back to Portal Phenom to identify a program (preferably at no cost) to modify a conventional PDF document. We endorse Gimp 2.2 with GTK and Ghostscript to do the job. They are free to use at no fee.

We have made a CD for your use and will pass it when a client site visit is scheduled.

Happy PDFing.

Updated by Darren

Posted in: on Wednesday, October 18, 2006 at 0 comments  

I had the opportunity to air my views during the east zone sf meeting recently, and hereby like to provide our SF a summary of what is on the table as well. The more transparent I am, the better, when it comes to flow of these information...would you agree?

A healthy SF, which to some extent behaves like a church, ought to display certain traits or marks as some call it. In fulfilling the universal vision to be Christ-like in an SF, let us consider the following

1. Existence of phileo and agape love (i.e serving others than self)
2. Practical Relationship Circle
3. Biblical Understaning of Evangelism
4. Openness to growth and discipleship
5. Committment to act in prayer for one another
6. Holy-Spirit-led leadership
7. Biblical Understanding of Service/support in local church
8. Gospel-focused activity plan

Nothing new here...just would like to take this coming Friday to perhaps touch and go to hear each of your view with regard to making our family better with the above points.

Posted in: on Tuesday, October 17, 2006 at 0 comments  

The recent email notification on spam warning has been reviewed thoroughly from the server side, only to confirm the source of spam emails being received externally is caused by specific users' infected machines.

Steps to sweep every user;s PC or laptop is urgently required to clam down on the root cause of high number of spams being sent out by infected PCs within CEH network.

MailEdge is not infected in any form.

Updated by Wai Peng

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With the availability of MailEdge MX, a 64-bit oriented messaging server will be rolled out in CEH upon the availability of suitable hardware from CEH. AMD's 64-bit processor-based system is still highly recommended as per the current MailEdge server in CEH.

New Features that will can be found in the server include

• LDAP GUI Administrator to manage users' mailbox profiles
• New heuristic-based Spam filter engine
• Munin Mail sever real-time sensors to track viruses, spam, CPU utilization etc.
• Webmin Server Administration to schedule cronjobs, quota, reboot servers etc.
• Firewall and Anti-virus integration
• Built-in backup role as DNS server, Windows File Server and DHCP server
• Jabber IM infrastructure to support current corporate IM securely

Please advice if a decision has been made to provide a new mail server hardware for the installation. The current MailEdge server can serve as a backup mail server.

Updated by Wai Peng

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With ClamWin installed on every machine, the next agenda on the list is to deploy a 24/7 network vulnerability surveillance system in the network. This system will continuously probe each connected PC/laptop and feed side intel to the IT department on necessary action and correction.

Please provide a machine for this sole purpose asap.

Updated by Lawrence

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Currently, both "Analog Proxy" servers in CEH should be decomissioned asap to speed up overall Internet performance while providing a platform for a Fairway Load Balancer to be deployed on the network. These machine will dictate the amount of traffic for various protocols to guarantee specified QoS.

We will be providing a suitable recommendation for the hardware today whereby it will be configured for use in HQ and/or Pumas site.

Updated by Lawrence

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Our recommendation in moving towards virtualization is to endorse a 64-bit processing core for efficiency. Windows OS are today still primarily on 32-bit which disallow a realistic test case for meaningful use. To pilot this initiative, please provide a decent workgroup server hardware to configure that you can achieve a 64-bit OS core platform for virtualization.

AMD-powered box is preferred as they have both a lower price point but very strong 64-bit processing power. We will be happy to recommend a suitable hardware for this purpose.

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I have been asked by Lawrence to write a brief note about SPI firewall features for CEH. With the installation of the third and final Cisco 877 router in HQ, security offered by packet-inspected (commonly known as SPI) firewall will protect the entire CEH network, shielding users from

• IP Spoofing
  
• Port Scanning
• Ping of Death
• SynFlood
• DoS Attacks
• TCP flag Attacks
• Malformed Packet Attacks

Typically, each SPI firewall can further be fine-tuned to optimize flexibility in usage and friendliness. The Cisco 877 standard firewall is usually configured not to address UDP channel inspection (used by voip). Please let us know if this require policing too.

A third and final Cisco 877 router will be installed at client's premise on Thursday, pending confirmation.

Updated by Darren

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All I ever read about on the Apple blogs, is iPhone this and iPhone that. Frankly if Apple will ever produce a cellphone is anybodies guess. But here is a way that you can make (and when I say make, I mean buy) your own Franken-iPhone.

BluEye from Gear4 has dropped in an iPod accessory that transform your iPod into some sort of cell phone. To make it work all you need to do is synch up your Bluetooth capable mobile phone with your iPod. The BluEye will take care of any incoming calls and the caller ID will show the number on the iPod. It doesn’t require any external power and gets the necessary power from iPod. The device does give your iPod the FM radio functionality and comes in two colors black and white.

Available for $94

Posted in: on Saturday, October 14, 2006 at 0 comments  

How does converting files via your default browser sound? Media Convert does just that. Using a simple drop-down menu based interface, users can upload files directly from their own machines and have the respected file format converted to something new. Convert MP3’s into suitable ring tone formats for your mobile handset. Convert heavy JPG images into something more manageable (such as a .GIF, or .AVI).

Seems completely reliable - based on personal experiences converting generic MP3’s into appropriate ring tone formats for the bargain basement price of free.

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Three things that are of focus curently in CEH were discussed yesterday whereby virus infection tops the highest priority. As mentioned, effective opens-source solution should be leveraged across the entire CEH network with tools inlcuding ClamAV antivirus (Good for both basic PCs and servers alike) and vulnerability survelliance tools like Nessus.

Please download them and install ClamAV on every machine to protect Outlook mailboxes and data with scheduled daily scan of each PC that has ClamAV installed. Nessus should be in place in one workgroup server dedicated for 24/7 network survelliance and flagging of new and emerging threats. A HP ML110 series machine will do the job cost-effectively.

Overseas office control can readily be achieved with a proper VPN linkup to that site. Upon a successful implementation, full control can be achieved by placing "spy" servers in the remote network that is fully managed by HQ MIS department. Data, information etc. can all be interrogated on-demand with this approach without need of a physical presence.

Hence, countries like China, USA, HK, Japan etc. can all fall under the IT jurisdiction of HQ Singapore, with full business visibility.

Updated by Lawrence

Posted in: on Friday, October 13, 2006 at 0 comments  

The last discussion we had with regard to how MK can accomodate the upcoming VPN links to Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore indicate that a detailed study is suggested to evaluate possibilities of running two separate instances of the MK server - one on the new MK server, one on where it is today.

A big-bang approach to switch overseas offices onto the new MK instance is not recommended due to the inherent risk we face when it is performed simulataneously. Due to the way the MK database schemas was first designed, tables within the database are commonly accessed by the different business entities in CEH. Hence, a slice and dice approach to systematically migrate site-specific database is not possible.

The only recommendation to all existing constraints is to ensure two (AS-IS and TO-BE) instances are kept synchronized (accuracy discrapancies can increase during the migration process period) while individual office sites are systematically switched over to the new MK instance.

An observation period of approximately 2 weeks will be given to each site after the switch, whereby the existing contract be terminated upon the dust settling down for each location. Based on Mr. Sim's planned schedule, all six sites can be systematically switched over in 2.5 to 3 months period from today.

Updated by Lawrence

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With steps put in to incorporate the second Cisco 877 router, an existing server running "Analog Proxy" has been identified. Close examination of this application and the network topology has revealed a double NAT-layer structure slowing users down to accessing the Internet.

This double-translation work (by both the Compact Proliant 1600 and Prolink Home-grade ADSL modem)can present a huge bottleneck in speed of access in the HQ site. We strongly recommend removal of the Compaq Proliant 1600 server with immediate effect while existing users are redirected to a second Analog Proxy box on level 2 temporarily.

Next, the second Cisco 877 has been partially configured to access the internet today but has yet to be incorporated back into the network for the fact it will have to be configured to be part of the network for usability, bearing an IP of 192.168.1.200. The first Cisco 877 today bares an IP fo 192.168.1.180. It is a matter of time that the current Analog Proxy server be removed to be replaced by a load balancer, having direct connection to both Cisco 877 routers at level 3.

In addition, any DHCP functions in any Microsoft Windows 2000/3 servers should be turned off immediately, before the Cisco 877 resumed this responsibility. What HQ currently have in terms of ADSL connectivity includes

• 1.5 Mbps ADSL Dynamic Plan
• 2 Mbps ADSL Static Plan with 16 Static IPs (please provide information on ALL static IP information)
• 256kbps ADSL Dynamic Plan (Level 2)

Load balancing will be activated for both the 1.5mbps and 2mbps links.

Work will be done later today to incorporate the Cisco 877 into the core network.

Updated by Lawrence Oei

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A delivery will be made next Monday on the following products to

209 Henderson Road
#03-06
Singapore 159551

1. HP DAT72 StorageWerk External Drive with 10 cartridges
2. Adobe Photoshop CS2 Retail Box
3. Microsoft Frontpage 2003 Retail Box
4. FREE Microsoft Windows 2003 Server CALs - 10 units

An invoice will accompany with the delivery.

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Here's some hearty recommendation to those tired of honey-glazed chicken from Cold storage

1) The Mango Tree
The Mango tree is an excellent, affordable Indian restaurant specializing in cuisine from Goa and Kerela. The seafood is among the best in Singapore and you can feel the ocean breeze while you eat. Good prices, outstanding food, and a nice atmosphere.
2) Hai Tien Lo
The best view in the city. The restaurant sits on the 37th floor of The Pan Pacific. It offers incredible Cantonese food - roasted chicken, shark fin soup, dim sum, etc. The menu changes periodically and in addition to the Cantonese fare you can get Western dishes like lamb or Japanese favorites like Kobe beef.
3) The Gorkha Grill
Authentic Nepalese food and atmosphere in Singapore's Chinatown area. The place is relaxed, affordable and very memorable. And while the Nepalese dishes are showcased, you can also get Australian, African and Middle Eastern cuisines.
4) The Banana Leaf Apolo
Great South Indian food and a good cultural experience at a reasonable price. Eat off a banana leaf plate with your fingers (okay you can have a fork if you just HAVE TO have one... try the fish head curry!_z_goasia_z_);
5) mezza9
Nine different dining experiences wrapped into one restaurant on the Mezzanine floor of the Grand Hyatt in Singapore.

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Having a number of our members (in fact most of us) hovering around their mid-lives, I am pretty sure the reality of facing what many call a half-time crisis can be real and a daunting mindwash. Some of us perhaps are just over it, some in it, while others are about to enter it. Needless to say, prolong immersion in this state of mind can ultimately hurt our spiritual effectiveness for Christ as it has already done so in many christians.

For the record, "A mid-life crisis is an emotional state of doubt and anxiety in which a person becomes uncomfortable with the realization that life is halfway over. It commonly involves reflection on what the individual has done with his life up to that point, often with feelings that not enough was accomplished. The individual may feel boredom with their lives, jobs, or their partners, and may feel a strong desire to make changes in these areas. ..." (Wikipedia)

While surfing the world wide web (coz of HC's comment on not wanting to buy a fleet of yacht when asked), an interesting site caught my attention on this subject. And allow me to commend it to those burdened hearts who can truly see its value in helping many redirect their time, talent and treasure into something genuinely fulfilling and lasting for Christ, and perhaps turning it into a ministry in our church!

Check out the following material and pray for God's leading for you [here]

Posted in: on Thursday, October 12, 2006 at 0 comments  

ASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)--After nearly a decade of lying low, Starbucks has reentered the homosexual rights movement in a few ways that have put at least one conservative watchdog group on alert. The world’s most famous coffee shop chain has begun a program called “The Way I See It,” which is a collection of thoughts, opinions and expressions provided by notable figures that now appear on Starbucks coffee cups, according to the chain’s website.

So, think again where you will have your next coffee...

Read more [here]

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As requested, a quotation has been faxed out to fulfill your network requirement

1. Linksys SRW2024 24-port Managed Switch
Purpose: Ensure redundancy for hot swap replacement in event of switch failure in Singapore HQ office

2. APC SmartUPS Back-UPS ES 500 Universal ASE - 1 unit
Purpose: Ensure backup operation of network switches in event of power failure

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Major upgrades are available to beef up securities, improve overall performance, together with more useful-friendly administration tools. The server has been in operation for two full years now and is due for a major overhaul.

Overhauling activity includes a replacement of the existing harddrives, kernel upgrade, hardware firmware updates and housekeep user data. This activity will require a temporary replacement server to be provided whereby user data be migrated and kept.

We anticipate minimal impact to user as upgrades go underway.

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Since the delivery of the second Cisco 877 router to HQ, it has yet to be configured. This second set will be configured and go live this week on Friday.A third set of Cisco 877 will be delivered to be installed on the second floor (prior to termination of that ADSL service) to close the present vulnerability of the entire office network.

Upon termination of the second floor ADSL service, this router will act as a replacement set for hot-swapping purposes should any of the existing Cisco 877 router fail.

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The IPSec VPN tunnel that was created between Pumas and HQ has been up for the past one week, allowing the basic ping to be run without trouble. The next step of discussion conclude issues pertaining to ensuring the extended network segment with the VPN link up to Pumas not posing a security threat.

The tunnel are now set to automatic connection (as opposed to previous week), whereby a router reset would only mean a temporary downtime for each VPN tunnel. Moreover, it is agreed that the VPN trial conducted this week is solely meant for the MK ERP client access to the server.

The new MK server has been delivered to HQ, awaiting proper configuration for the actual load test next week. Outstanding on the hardware department include an additional two-core processor and more harddrives to be delivered and added to the new MK server next week.

We understand the newly upgraded ADSL link is up and running and ready for updating in the Cisco 877 router.

Updated by Lawrence

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As if the Internet is not closing the world's gap fast enough, we now have what Apple calls podcast, an interactive platform that dishes out all known media like radio stations, movies, TV series and music into little gadgets (known as iPod) you probably already own.

By subscribing to podcasts channels via iTunes software (free from Apple web site), complete radio stations, music pieces you choose gets transferred into your iPod automatically, allowing you to bring them along on trips to kill boredom.

To me, it's like having an international radio to hundreds of world-wide radio stations on my palm...cool indeed. One of my favourites collection comes from the New York Public Radio found at http://www.wnyc.org/podcasting/

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You know, as time passes, so does our memory. But it's a good old traditions to remember one another's birth date. I remembered the last time we cut a cake, we were all in our state of adolescence (with Robert).

Even in our age, it's always nice to sing the birthday song and get messy with some sponge cakes on our hands.

Let's attempt to compile this list again when we meet on Friday...

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Come this Friday, we've will be at anywhere but HC's place...as she and John is on an important car trip to KL,Malaysia...probably to see that new house HC bought for her retirement!

My place is packed with diapers and toys nowadays, so I am unable to host you guys this week.

Any takers to host us this Friday? Reply via the comment link.

(PS Remember, your reward will be stashed somewhere in a place called heaven)

Posted in: on Wednesday, October 11, 2006 at 0 comments  

Somehow, whenever you try doing something more spiritual, a sudden gust of "resistance" come your way. Amen? I am not saying it shouldn't be there, but it does get you wondering if it's worth it.

I have began reading a big Bible picture book to Douglas this week, and showing him how to pray...by praying in front of him. He may wander around in the bedroom, blabbering away, pointing his hands in certain directions etc. but I believe, with persistence, it will leave the appropriate image in his heart. It is challenging!

So, do pray for us as Christine's mum goes back to HK - diligence in doing what needs done, wisdom in planning family affairs and duties well, attitude to do all for God's glory and lastly, faith in living dependently on our heavenly father.

Thanks!

-Lawrence

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Intel Core Duo Processor T2300E (1.66 GHz, 2 MB L2 cache, 667 MHz FSB)
Microsoft Windows XP Professional with Microsoft Works
14" Crystal View XGA display
512 MB DDR2 667 MHz memory (Dual Channel; 256 MB x 2)
40 GB S-ATA 150, 5400 rpm hard drive
Modular DVD-RW Combo Drive
Integrated multinational 56K V.90 modem and 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN and Intel Pro Wireless 802.11abg
Integrated Fujitsu Security Application Panel, Smart Card ready4 and embedded TPM 1.2
Main battery: Lithium ion Lithium ion (6 cells, 10.8V, 5200 mAh, 56.2 WHr, rated up to 5.25 hours)

Posted in: on Monday, October 09, 2006 at 0 comments  

A system has been delivered today to your office - the fifth generation of the ML350 series server. Invoice of this machine will be issued via post in the next few working days.

Bundled free in the package include an additional dual-core Intel Xeon 3.0GHz processor.

More information about this product can be found at http://h20195.www2.hp.com/V2/GetDocument.aspx?docid=0900a5a5816b8e5c&cc=sg&lc=en

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As part of the effort to enhance the way our clients communicate with Portal Phenom and vice versa, the company has launched a fully interactive information portal for all her clients to

• Inform of our clients' project or corporate purchase status
• Provide key information for each undertaken projects
• Allow clients to communicate requirements, project details in a secure manner to us
• Break most current news, development, trends and best practices that pertain to our clients' business
• Raise business support issues for faster resolution
• Update clients of the latest technology products and services pertaining to our clients' business

Welcome!

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Remember that faithful day when God sifted out 300 ordinary man to bring victory to the Israelites? O yes, not 32,000 but 300...against the hundreds of thousands of blood-thirsty Midianites. And the account gets better - they were armed with but trumpets and brightly-lit pitchers (a sort of lamp in our context), and they won!

Madness and absurdity are words we probably use to describe their tactics of war, if only we recognize the truth which are meant for us in Judges 7. God wants none of that proud spirit of ours in overwhelming situation of ours. It can be the ruthless office politics we face, a dim-witted boss, poor business cashflow or even broken family relationships. You name it.

When the odds arise, I want you to remember dearly what happened on that faithful day when God delivered the Isrealites by sending each Midianites' sword against the belly of one another. Move forward with total dependence and faith on Him, while doing what God let you do best. Re-live Judges 7 today and share your war stories with us...

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For a geek like me, I was informed that Acer has just launched an ultra-sleek, super-duper Intel killer - the Ferrari 1000. Being curious, I decide to test-drive it at an Acer-specialty store and my drive confirms that it has to be the most powerful, yet stylish laptop you can lay your eyes on. Sporting a dual-core AMD processor (launched just last week by AMD), 120GB drive, 512MB of Video and 1GB of RAM at 1.6kg , you can now burn a DVD, download a file, surf the net and work on your Adobe Photoshop and Macromedia all without breaking a sweat! Now, that's power!

At a price tag of approximately three grands, it's still a viable buy to the very efficient-minded.

See more at http://global.acer.com/products/notebook/fr1000.htm

Posted in: on Thursday, October 05, 2006 at 0 comments  

Though it was warm and humid yesterday, some of us still managed to rush in to see the glamourous display of some brightly-lid artwork...though HC claimed it was less fabulous as the last. Nevertheless, I still think the highlight was the Tim Sum we had there, won't you agree?

Thanks HC for the tickets!

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Being an ex-Met Tab (C H Spurgeon) worshipper in UK for several years , I have been truly blessed with the pulpit ministry through His servant, Dr. Peter Masters. And I present you today his video feed - The Highest Possible Grace, via the exposition of John 1:1-14.

Enjoy and may His Word quickeneth you continuously.


Note: Requires Real Player plugin on your browser. Get it here free.

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Well, here's an intersting site to visit in the wee hour of the day if you are unable to hit the pillow. Don't ask me why but rather how it's supposed to fulfill its goal.

Anyway, you ask for it!

Have fun...

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Here's the who's who that responded to the recent invite for blog membership (just for fun):

1. HC (1 day)
2. Reba (1 day)
3. Nige (2 days)
4. Who's next?

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Looking back...we did over 120 posts on the old engine, a record in mileage I believe for Wordpress (the blog engine's name). But I trust a little blessing went to those who manage to visit it and that God has used it to minister to your blessed heart in one way or another. It was a blessing for me to even write those articles I must say.

With enhanced capability and user friendliness of this new platform, I encourage everyone to see if you can blog a discouraged heart out of a present trial, share a prayer and truly add in a more personal touch to the needy. It will, once again, be my privilege to administer this platform as the SF leader of Ladybird as the Lord tarries.

Amen.

Posted in: on Wednesday, October 04, 2006 at 0 comments  

OK. We lost our calendar...for now, but in exchange, I have loaded some long overdue features only possible with this sleeker engine.

Instant Messaging - Eat your heart out, HC, as this smooth operator pumps out what's on your mind faster than you can say budapest! Located at the bottom half of the right navigation panel. Type your nick and message before hitting the TAG button.

Google Search - Hard cold big daddy of web search is introduced in our blog, giving people more reason to use this blog as a springboard during work, play or sleep. Go fetch!

Skype - Something I hesitated to bring onboard all this while as most of our members live in the pre-Intel era. But what the heck! Raw voice conference capability dished out to folks who prefer more control talking and "helloing" slower minds.

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Though most of you are PC-phobic, I am sure some of you may not be using a Microsoft's IE (or Internet Explorer) but rather Flock, Safari, Firefox, Konqueror or Opera as your ally to surf the Net.

My test reveals best compatibility of this new platform with Firefox, Safari, Flock or IE. Avoid others as user-friendliness can suffer when posting your articles via them.

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As technology progressed by the leap and bounds, so must we constantly identify and deploy a better, more friendly platform to blog.

So, here we are, on a leaner, sleeker blog engine, courtesy of Google.

Enjoy the use of this  site as we move forward with this new home for our SF.

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