Monday, February 15

it has been a truly great weekend. Xin Wei came over for a visit to Manchester this weekend, so I brought him along the city. Went to various places which I myself have not been before. Begin to widen my perception of Manchester after visiting some wonderful places like the Imperial War Museum and Museum of Science and Industry as well as the Manchester Markets and the surrounding shopping areas. Manchester is more than what I know of it during the first few weeks. Had a chance to understand more of Manchester especially during the Museum of Science and Industry exhibitions on the city's history as well as the groundbreaking scientific discoveries right here in Manchester or by Manchurians. I begin to appreciate more of this city's beauty and its heritage.

Had the chance to visit a small church on Sunday known as Grace Baptist Church. Its a traditional baptist church very different from what I'm used to in FCBC. It's a small community of believers who knows one another and are close. A very homely feeling. It's such a blessing to be here and to be able to connect with the community and listen to a good sermon and receive a deeper understanding of God through the preaching.

This weekend was Chinese New Year. Being away from Singapore for the first time during CNY makes you really appreciate the blessings you have when you get to be with your family. It just doesn't feel the same over here with the usual family gatherings and house-visitings. But after saying that, I did have a different and yet enjoyable time having CNY reunion dinner with the Singapore Society and a gathering with the Singapore exchange students just now for dinner. A visit to Chinatown here also reminds me of the crowded streets of Chinatown in Singapore on CNY eve. Of course, selection of stalls pale in comparison but at least the CNY atmosphere was strong. It was further enhanced with the 15-minutes long fireworks which of course cannot be compared to the high standards in Singapore but nevertheless gave me the opportunity to take in the festive joys.

Thank God for the past weekend. Would love to continue to appreciate the opportunity of being here in Manchester for exchange and to continue to widen my horizon.

jel; 8:45 am