DECEMBER VIBES | CHRISTMAS AND MAGIC

December is here! The most wonderful time of the year. Though Christmas isn't a big thing in Kuching, it has always been my favourite season ever since I was a child. Its a time my mind sets off to believe anything I want, let my imagination run free and expect unbelievable things. Christmas makes me feel and experience magic. Christmas decorations invading homes, shopping malls and streets. Big tall Christmas trees filled with favourite things, giant fluffy teddy bears sitting next to a mountain of presents, and fairy lights sparkling every where, infusing dreaminess into the atmosphere. Christmas cookies, food and laughter in a room of filled with family and friends. Christmas carols and Jazz music skipping in the air. More giving than taking. Goodwill, gratitude and love all around. Fine surprises floating everywhere. Tis' the season to be jolly!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

"The little things in life really are spectacular enough that they deserve to be blown up to magnificent proportions even on the most simple of days."

Dylana Suarez

These words resonated with me ever since I read it and have spurred me to pay more attention to the little things around me. The more I inspect life in its most stripped down state, I begin to see that the tiny things and moments are just as beautiful and captivating as the grand ones. Every moment - big or small deserves to be given thanks for. and that, is such a magical thing to do. Because for that one fleeting moment you're completely focused and immersed in good and beautiful things, life is enough. If only we take the time to, we wouldn't need anything else to help us see that life is so freaking awesome.

As I think of all the things I have in my life in the spirit of thanksgiving, I am blessed to be able to say with my whole heart that I am thankful for my lot. I have a family that I can share everything with. My dad, who believed in me and loved me from day one. My sister who has inspired and stretched me in so many ways and being the best business partner I can and will ever have. My brother, who sheds life and joy into our family with his mischief like no one else can. And my mum who still lives in so many ways. The way she loved will always be the purest I've ever seen and known. Her boldness to dream big and crazy. The bigger the better. The way she fights for her life all the way to the end with gentleness and strength. Not a single day has went by without the memory of her spurring me forward and making me a better person. and what can I say about my friends? I seriously believe I have the best friends. Friends I can laugh and cry with, and feel the most confident with, even when I pull the ugliest face in a selfie. Friends who inspire me and challenge me to pursue my dreams.

Last but not least, I am thankful for my faith in a God of love. His love has given me more than I deserve - Immeasurable joy in my life, and never ending hope and strength when things are painful and hard. Life is enough. Life is good. HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

MY SUNDAY AFTERNOON AT HOME | WHAT I DID

As I get older, I learnt to appreciate and intentionally create beautiful moments to keep myself positive and enthusiastic as these are crucial to be effective and productive in life. I spent the last few moments of my weekend at home doing only lovely and cushy things. Got to make it extra special to fine-tune my mind and get my life in order for a fresh start to yet another action-packed week. Here's some of the things I did:

1. Stay in pajamas all day

2. Read a book

3. Update Journal

4. Clean and organise space

5. Watch Youtube videos

6. Exercise

7. Paint nails

8. Photograph things

9. Catch up with friends
10. Fill in my weekly planner

What was your weekend like?

Have a beautiful week ahead! x

10 INSTANT PICK-ME-UPS

Hello everybody! Yet another week has buzzed off in a blink of an eye. And how is it that it's November already? How was the week for you? My week was for the most part, good. But there were days when I felt a little flat. This is the one rare time my annoying headstrong character comes to good use. Choosing to live every single moment with zest no matter how rubbish I'm feeling. Foster the positive emotions I want to feel. Sometimes, that is as simple as doing the little things just a tiny bit differently. Here are 10 instant pick-me-ups that pepped me up throughout the week. 

Express

I had the chance to savour a few moments of solitude this week. Slowing down and reflecting on my current state of mind was so refreshing as I took the time to clear my mind through writing, singing and talking to loved ones. 

Gratitude

"Happiness is itself a kind of gratitude".  - Joseph Wood Krutch

Think about how rich and full life can be if we are able to see the beauty in the little things and moments in life and celebrate them just the same way we celebrate the big spectacular ones. I made a list of all the things or people I have in my life and instantly felt so good. To be happy is really as simple as being fully aware of all that we have. 

Smile

Go against your feelings and flash your pearly whites. Fake it till you make it. It is proven that the slightest change in your facial muscles can elevate positive hormones and spike happiness. Try it and let the smallest decision to smile trigger a positive chain reaction that will change your reality.

Let Light In

Pull back the curtains and let Mr. Sunshine spill in. This is the first thing I do every morning. Love the warmth and loveliness that streams in with the sun. Makes the day a hundred times brighter and merrier. 

Step Outside 

Cut the technology cord and step outside. Soak up the sun. Breathe in the clean fresh air. Stop for the flowers. Pluck some freshly bloomed Jasmines and display them on your bedside table. Catch a whiff of the freshly cut grass. There's nothing more serene and uplifting than that.

Love Yourself

Forget the stress. Take some time to wallow in some self-indulgent goodness. Put some make up on. Conceal the eye bags, add an extra flick of the eyeliner, more blush on the cheeks and some color on the lips. Feel beautiful. Feel special. Make yourself a healthy drink. Paint your nails. Take a long shower. Put on a face mask. Light a scented candle, turn on the fairy lights and some good music. The 3 hours long Disney Instrumental is my favourite. Click here. 

Reconnect with Old Friends

This week, I wrote to 3 old friends. I'm telling you, if you are feeling lethargic or lonely, reconnect with an old friend for an instant spirit boost! It's almost like turning a switch on to a bunch of positive feelings such as excitement, nostalgia, forgiveness and love!

Flip through Old Photos

This is so true and could possibly be my favourite thing to do. Flipping through pictures of my childhood, teenage years and photos from my favourite holiday never fail to remind me of the most magical times in my life and churns out the best feelings. My childhood pictures bring back the crazy times I spent at my grandmothers house with my 9 other cousins chasing geese and making campfires out of old newspapers. The games my mum and dad will play with us before bed. My teenage photos remind me of the girl friends I had back then. The sleepovers we had. Dancing the night away. Talking and giggling under the duvets. The concerts we went to. The boys we fancied. Those were good times. 

Exercise

Exercising is one of the most effective mood-boosters. This is so true for me. I always feel better after lifting some weights and blasting out my core muscles. 

Music

Who remembers the old hit 'Let the music heal your soul'? I used to be OBSESSED with it when I was about 14/15 years old. I had it on my iPod all the time. Well that song is probably right. It amazes me how a song is able to reach into your deepest feelings and translates them into words. It never fails to make you feel the way it is written to. I've been listening to 'Better when I'm dancing' by Meghan Trainor and 'Shut up and Dance' by Walk the Moon all week. They make me so happy. 

What a lovely post to write! I hope you enjoyed it and hope it helps. x

HAPPY THINGS | REPEAT OBSESSIONS #2

Hello beautifuls! How did your week go? My week was filled with all things good. Perfect balance of work and my much needed rest. My eyebags are gone and I'm over the moon about that! 

The other things that made me happy this week:

Flint and Steel Borneo

First on the list - my job. It still feels so surreal and weird to say that Flint and Steel Borneo is my job. I am enjoying it so much that its hard to believe it's actually a job. Forever creating, meeting and being inspired by people who are nothing short of amazing, collaborating with other labels... all the things I love passionately. I'm forever thankful.

This week, we launched 3 new mugs and the response we got was overwhelming. I am very encouraged and motivated! Also, we received sweet and positive feedbacks from our buyers, telling us that they love our products and can't wait to use them! It's the simple things that put a smile on my face.

Clear Blue Sky

Just so you know, it's been hazy where I live for what feels like eternity. All we've been getting are grey skies and a horrible smokey stench to make things worst. So this week, we had a clear blue sky for just one day. Just one day but I won't complain. Didn't realize how much I missed it!

& My Favourite One...

Victoria's Secret and Bath and Body Works have finally arrived in Kuching! Not one, but two of my favourite brands!  I've been waiting too long for this! 

So, the weekend has been as good as the week was. so far. Wishing the same for you. I am currently enjoying my Saturday night swaddled and snugged in a duvet, with the perfect playlist running to make things ten times more ethereal. Can't ask for a better way to wrap up such an amazing week!

Hula Hoop by OMI

Eyes Shut by Years & Years

Fools by Troye Sivan

Locked Away by R. City ft Adam Levine

Fight Song by Rachel Platten

Jealous by Labrinth

Overjoyed by Stevie Wonder

6, 8, 12 by Brian McKnight

Little Dancer by Leroy Sanchez

Through All of it by Colton Dixon

How Can I Keep From Singing by Chris Tomlin

AN HONEST POST | GRIEF

Hello everyone! I am a little late this week. I have been meaning to write but have been putting it off because to be honest, I haven't been feeling like it. It's easy to open up and talk about things I like or happy things but when it comes to the dark, low and sad things, it can be really difficult. Not that anything terrible happened this week, it's just grief playing up on me and sometimes it's easier to just sit in bed and be sad. Have you ever felt like that? 

So as I was trying (hard) to find something more 'positive' to talk about on the blog this week, I am reminded of why I started this blog. It was never meant to be a mask to hide anything. It was never meant for me to paint a false picture of my life. It was never meant to be a place where I need to feel that I need to have my life all together. It's meant to be place where I can be honest with myself and with the world and to learn to embrace every piece of life, just as it is - beautiful or ugly.

It is extremely petrifying to think about sadness, grief, anger and disappointments, let alone to talk about them because it is so easy to be engulfed into the tornado of feeling sorry for our lives. But here's the truth. Sadness is real. as real as joy can get. It is part of life. Imagine life without sadness, happiness will have no meaning. Life will be incomplete.  Experiencing sadness does not change or take away the happy and great moments. If you think about it, maybe unwrapping sadness and fully experiencing it is a way to let light in. 

I feel liberated writing this post. For the longest time, I have been grieving alone. I refrain from talking about my grief because I fear to come off as 'negative'. But I can only be so strong. Come on, my mum is never coming back again. How can I not be sad?

Let's keep it real. Let's not make life more complicated than it already is by trying to live unrealistic perfect lives. There will only be lonely sad people every where. To those who are struggling with emotions that fall into the 'negative' category, I hope this post has inspired you to have courage to open up, speak for your heart and be free. Take heart, you are not alone.

xx

THE UNFOLDING | FLINT AND STEEL BORNEO

Introducing Flint and Steel Borneo, everyone! Our online stationery shop is finally LIVE after months and months of planting and watering the seed of our dreams. My excitement level is literally busting through the roof! It all started with two girls bonding through art in their bedroom. Two extremely passionate, adventurous, and headstrong girls. Hence the name, Flint and Steel. There were many clashes and frictions, but that was what ignited the flame. Reckless, I often say. Plunging into new waters has never been my style. But I'm learning as I brave myself to conquer more territories, one step at a time. 

Seeing how everything came together, I am humbled by the people in my life that have been journeying alongside me. Again and again. The way they so relentlessly give, inspire, and sincerely being happy for me is just one of the many things that fill my heart with overflowing thankfulness.

So this is for you - Our unfolding adventure. I'm excited that this is just a glimpse of so much more to come. As for now, the journey shall be the reward. I am going to savour every moment of the journey as they gracefully and beautifully unfold in their ordained time. The mistakes that will make us wiser, the disappointments that will only make us resilient, and the dead ends that will teach us surrender. And of course the many many amazing surprises that will make it all worth it. 

Ok, now let's move over to www.flintandsteelborneo.com, shall we? And give @flintandsteelborneo a follow on Instagram. Do check out our planner, 'The Unfolding' from our brand new Rosemaling collection. It is white with gold accents (just putting that out there) because I am basically obsessed with it! 

I really hope you like the shop. Feel free to leave feedback and tell me what you would like to see on there in the future. xx 

NEW CANDLES | BATH & BODY WORKS

I am obsessed with scented candles. The lingering presence of a dreamy scent be my sweet escape at any time of the day. My favourite time to enjoy my candles, however, has got to be night - when I'm all tucked up in bed. I love to watch the candle light flicker. Its careless, spontaneous and composed nature has its way of infusing serenity, comfort and stability into the atmosphere. 

I was electrified to find a Bath & Body Works outlet in Penang when I visited 3 weeks ago. Never ever dreamed that it would come to Malaysia. I spent almost an hour going through every single candle in the shop and you bet! I brought two 14.5oz candles home! I have been enjoying them so much the past 3 weeks so I thought I'll share them on the blog today. 

Turquoise Waters

Turquoise Waters is truly one in a million. Sends me straight to ocean paradise. It is subtle yet deep. Complex. Perfect for an ocean lover like me. 

Sweet Pea

This one's from the Signature collection. It's a nice blend of a light floral and a light sweet scent. Its fresh, bubbly and rich scent transforms anywhere into a happy place. 

What are the candles you're loving at the moment? 

STARTING THE WEEK WELL | 5 THINGS

Hello hello hello! It's yet another Monday. This time, I'm feeling fresh and exuberant. I'm positive it is because I had such a lovely weekend. Work was strictly off-limits. All I did was unwind and did a bunch of non-work related things. I realised that as much as planning well for the week is necessary and getting work done is important, rest is equally necessary and important. Starting the week well rested makes it easier to have a positive and clear perspective of things. Here are some of the things I did and maybe, some ideas for you to have a well rested weekend, so you can start your week well!

Watch a good movie

There's nothing like watching a good movie in the comfort of your own bed. It only gets better when the movie is so good you get so caught up in it and you forget the world. Last weekend, I watched not one, but two good movies. Inside out by Pixar and Saving Sarah Cain by Fox Faith. If you're like me and you enjoy movies that make you emotional and think a lot, these two are for you.

Keeping up with fitness

The past two weeks were so hazy here where I live and I have been travelling so my workout routine was back-burnered. It was nice to finally get back to lifting weights and the haze cleared enough to go outdoors for a run. I always feel so energised and alert after some good sweaty exercise. Not forgetting how well it makes me sleep at night.

Rest 
I found rest in a few naps and some quality me-time. Quiet times with nothing on my mind, and quiet times paying attention and analysing my every thought and writing them down. Accompanied by my amazing new candle from bath and body works. I needed that so much.

Organise Stuff
Weekends are perfect for tidying up and putting things back in order. Putting things back in their own respective homes, doing the laundry, changing my beddings, and organising my warzone aka my bedroom, wardrobe and floordrobe.

Spending time with friends and family
I love being around my family and friends. Time spent with them are always the most comforting, encouraging and inspiring. As I get older and commitments start to flood my schedules, I realise how little time I have left to spend with people I treasure dearly. Making time for them must be done intentionally.

I hope this post has inspired you to start your week well! Have a beautiful week! x

TWO MONTHS AS A FREELANCER | 5 THINGS

Hello hello hello! It's been three weeks - such a long time since I last blogged. I've had so much on my plate - working on the projects that I mentioned in my last post, travelling, making sure my home is taken care of and trying to have a social life in between.

As you already know, I quit my 8-5 job 2 months ago and took a sabbatical. Looking back from where I am now, that was one of the best decisions I've ever made. It seemed like that short career break was vital looking at all the good that came out of it. My little business was birthed. My vision has never been clearer and chasing my dream full-time has brought an explosion of energy I've never had before.

Coming from an 8-5 job, having an independent job is a luxury in so many ways: working from the comfort of home, managing my own time, working at my own pace, chasing my own dream etcetera. I have been enjoying every moment of it. But behind that ideal facade lies a handful of responsibilities, challenges and a couple of matters I have learnt about freelancing.

Discipline

Having a free lance job has given me the freedom to work anywhere and at any time that is convenient and effective. I've been dreaming of this. As much as I thank God for giving me the opportunity to work my dream job, the struggle with working from home is real. There can be so many distractions that require a great amount of discipline to get work done. I find designating an area at home away from common distractions for work extremely helpful in keeping me focused. Also, setting daily goals and following a schedule helps to curb procrastination. 

Focus

This job proved to me that anything can happen. This world has so much to offer. Dreaming and striving to make things happen was so overwhelming in the beginning. Looking at all the amazing things people do and being so successful at it put a lot of pressure on me. I wanted to do everything and I burnt out. I took a step back and defined my own success, refocused on my dreams and realised that I must not ever try to fill my bowl with everything.

Keep on learning
It is just impossible to ever stop learning. Posturing myself to learn, being eager to grow, and having the right attitude about criticisms make learning so exciting and enriching. I have been learning about publishing books over the past two months. Though it has been challenging and some times I want to pluck my brains out, it has been worth it. Can't wait to show you what I've been working on!

Create opportunities

Having a business made me a lot more observant to the things around me. Even the little things. Anything can be turned into an opportunity as long as we keep our souls curious and be willing to push boundaries. As long as we crave for things beyond the ordinary.

Know how much is enough
Last but not the least for sure - know how much is enough. Content is the only thing that separates strive from greed. It is the one thing that secures joy. Know when to strive. Know when to switch it all off and call it a day. Know when to say yes. Know when to say no. Know when to take. Know when to let go.

What an exciting journey it has been! I hope this post will be helpful to some fresh freelancers out there. Have a beautiful day x

THE CRAZY CONTINUES | 5 THINGS

Hello hello hello! Can you tell I've been way too busy lately. It's almost like I just had a baby. I have been sleep-deprived, and challenged to my wit's end working on a few projects. Its been a fun and exciting adventure nonetheless. I actually really enjoy it. Knowing I've channeled every ounce of energy to realise my dreams makes going to bed every night with no leftover energy from the day so rewarding. Here are some things I do to cope with the busyness!

Create a to-do list

Being the organisational freak that I am, I start my day by creating a to-do list and I can't imagine going without it. Oh the joy of crossing off completed tasks! Not only that, this old school habit of mine helps me carefully think through everything I have for the day, set priorities, and set the pace for the day. Also, breaking big stressful tasks down into mini tasks makes the task less overwhelming. 

Organised and bright workspace

There is no doubt that the way a workspace is put together does affect productivity and work quality. It can either make or break your flow of work and ideas. I like my workspace to be wide, clear and bright. As much as possible I try to keep my workspace minimalist and neat as I find that having a spacious and organised workspace keeps me focused and calm. However, I'd die for little pretty clutters here and there. A vase full of peonies, a scented candle and some pretty notepads please. It's even better with a space filled with natural light. It keeps me awake and alert and that's excellent for my productivity.

Turn on airplane mode

Turning my phone on airplane mode or leaving my phone far away from me when I work definitely increased my productivity many many folds. I mean, how is it even sensible to work with social media notifications and worst of all, alerts from 10 Whatsapp group chats going off every single second? 

Take time off

I learnt the hard way. I worked and worked and worked and at the end of the day, I achieved little. Don't be too hard on yourself. It's okay to take little breaks and free your mind. Grab a cup of tea, switch on some music, light a scented candle or get some fresh air. Be kind to yourself. 

Socialize

This is my favourite way to recharge and free my mind! Taking my mind of work is so easy when I'm having a good night out with my amazing friends. or even a night in. Surrounding myself with good good vibes and conversations is such a fun way to chill, learn, be inspired. 

Have a beautiful and productive week! xx

REPEAT OBSESSIONS

Hello beautiful people! It's Monday again, did you have a good weekend? Mine? Think of all the words you can possibly think of that carry the meaning 'crazy' in one way or another. That's probably what my weekend was. I felt like I was running on 32x fast forward mode. My sister and I held a debut sale for our very own label, Flint and Steel Borneo last weekend. We have been working past midnights, creating designs together. At long last we got them printed on postcards and mugs and finally saw them reaching the hands of people who appreciate our work. That is the best feeling. Lost count of all the times I imploded from the overwhelming force of good things that happened. What an extraordinary weekend. Proved my fears and doubts wrong again and again. My dreams got bigger, and many more dreams were awoken. Definitely one of the highlights of this year. 

In the midst of all that's been going on, I have my trusty safe place to turn to. Music. It always amazes me how music has the ability to reach out to me in such a calm and effective way even in the most chaotic of times. Whether to inspire, to empower, to calm, or to help me feel and express every emotion contained inside me. It brings out the sadness, anger, happiness, and the hopeless-romantic in me. It even makes me think and think deeply.. and some times it makes me wanna get up and dance away the blues. There is beauty in words and melody flowing together. It creates a bubble of peace and freedom, in that one moment I feel sheltered from everything else. 

Thought I'd share some of my favourite tunes that has been getting me through the past couple of crazy weeks. Repeat repeat repeat! I hope you enjoy xx

Moments Like This by The Afters

Rainbow by South Borders
How Long Will I Love You by Ellie Goulding

Maybe This Time by Sarah Geronimo

Broken Record by Shakira

Flashlight by Jessie J

Cheerleader by OMI

I Wanna Dance with Somebody by Whitney Houston

Heartbeat by Mat Kearney

Can't Take That Away by Mariah Carey

Love Never Felt So Good by Michael Jackson

Make It Simple by Shayne Ward

LEFT MY HEART IN BANGKOK

Hello, hello, hello!! I am back from my epic Bangkok holiday! This beautiful city captured my heart in a different but bigger way this time. This time I took home so much light and hope. I was intrigued by the endless city lights spread before my eyes from the plane. As we were descending, everything started to get bigger and bigger, clearer and clearer. The movements of cars, buildings and buildings and more buildings, and then I eventually got to smell, hear and feel the vibrancy of Bangkok.

I'm truly truly truly inspired by everything I was able to sense. There were so much to see and feel from every single angle. The lights, the eclectic markets, the hustles and bustles of the city, Bangkok's crazy traffic, the thrills of sitting on a tuk-tuk! Our driver made a u-turn in the middle of the highway, followed by the dangerous act of zooming pass 4 lanes to get on to the other side of the road. Oh my lord. The hawker man who wouldn't stop singing while frying up his omelettes, the smiley and lovely masseurs at midnight, the crowd putting their market bargaining skills to the test, all the little things that simply make Bangkok, Bangkok. A million little worlds spinning on their own axis. I could not put my camera down though my shoulders were aching. I just wanted to snap everything so I can remember it forever and ever.

The people - Its safe to say that they're my favourite thing about Bangkok. Their bright and fresh faces at anytime of the day is the radiation of the strength they possess. How they champion such harsh lives with flawless gentleness and joy. These are just a few of the many reasons they inspire me.

The life - basic but big. Simple but so full of life. Something I've never seen or felt before. Harsh, tough, imperfect. But imperfect has no power over them. Imperfect didnt blind them from seeing the power they own to change their reality. They live like nothing can dampen their spirits or blow out their faith. or stop them from waking up to a new day with strength and grace. Nothing could stop them from truly living. With smiles and singing. Not even if pain and tough is all they ever know. These people know how to truly live as fighters. as champions. 

They inspire me. Their attitude and the way they choose to live as overcomers come what may. Their city inspire me. Their world made me realise how tiny and small my problems are. What a way to remind us all that the best way to live life is to be brave, to have hope and to never give up. To make the best of the little things, to give the smallest task our best effort. to always choose better, to fight for better. And to always be thankful.

INSTAGRAM DIARY | RECENTLY

 {Buns and books}

{Drinking straight from a coconut}

{Jetty Fishing and Sunset}

{I love this book}

Had my nose screwed in this book for two days. If you haven't read it, you should! 

{Obsessed with patterns}

Not even the patterns on my sisters cactus can slip pass my radar.

{Made patterns out of leftover gold present wrappers} 

Its now framed and ready to join the rest of the decor in my room. Yay! My room is slowly turning into a pattern museum, but why not?

{Be Yourself} 

Painted by me 

Nothing beats clearing out a couple of minutes in my day to reflect. July was great. There were many quiet moments. Quiet moments invading unknown territories, rekindling passions, finding fresh energies in the silence... Quiet but so empowering. So full of life. I finished reading Zoe Sugg's Girl Online cover to cover in 2 days, painted some watermelons, made some patterns out of some leftover gold present wrappers and went fishing. and these are just some of the little things. Ready to embrace every thing August days have in store with a lion's heart. Happy August! x

THE HAPPY BITS IS 1 YEAR OLD | 5 THINGS

A year ago, I said 'Yes' to venturing into the quite out-of-my-comfort-zone blogging waters. It is unbelievable how a year has turned something that I wasn't so sure about into a place where I naturally turn to for release, to express, to put things into perspective, and a place where I learn to see far and beyond. It is where I get stronger, feel the strongest and most free. Bless the decision I made a year ago to say 'Yes' more to the unknown, and I'm so glad that blogging was one I said Yes to. To celebrate, here are 5 things blogging has taught me.

Do what you love

Blogging has taught me to set aside my fears and give every ounce of boldness and energy to the passion I was given by design. I learnt to be bold, and to be proud of the things I love to do, the things I did well. Passion is destined so we should be free to enjoy it.

Give 

Giving is the soul and substance of success. Generosity, kindness, and humility is a sign of security and confidence. I truly believe that what you put out there in the universe will always come back to you. so give what you want to get.

Pay attention to the little things

I realise that most of my blogging inspirations come from the little things. Good things doesn't always have to be loud, expensive and crazy. The best things in life are free. The sea breeze, the whistling sound of the wind, the cheer in the bird's tweet, the cleansing ability of rain, the clarity of the blue skies. It's these little things that frees the mind and brings vibrancy in life.

Keep on learning

Blogging has opened my eyes to see that there is just so much that I know, don't know or should have known. My growing curiosity for everything is the new found force that has been pushing me to try on as many hats as possible. I have always enjoyed writing. Blogging has grown my love for writing tenfolds. It is such a fun way for me to improve my writing. My vocabulary has expanded from writing and reading blogs. I am so pleased. Another hobby that I have been polishing is photography. I've been picking up my camera more than ever. I take pleasure in photographing the little bits and bobs and making lovely pictures.

Celebrate achievements

I find that blogging helps me keep track of happenings and achievements in my life. Reading my old posts is some thing I enjoy doing and it allows me to recognise the little improvements and growth I made as an individual are incredible, significant and are ought to be celebrated.

Sending out a ginormous 'Thank You' to my lovely followers who have been reading and leaving comments! Your support and kindness brings me so much joy! 

Have a beautiful day! :)

ME-TIME PLANS

'Whatever you do with awareness is meditation'. - Osho

I'm a bit late on this post. Life lately has been unrealistic. Between the last post and this one, much has happened and I'm still in the process of taking every thing in and doing my best in organising my life, in my head at least.

I'm currently taking a Sabbatical. A time-off dedicated especially to myself to be inspired, to do more of the things I love, to stretch my capabilities, to be challenged, to reflect, and to give myself some well-deserved TLC. Why not? One of the things I've been putting off for way too long. Not gonna lie, quitting my job is a scary idea. Uncertainties, fear of regret, fear of wasted time can be quite daunting and often zaps my energy to zero. But that's life. Change is scary. Everyone deals with that. How we deal is what matters. And in fact, these are only fleeting moments in life, which soon shall pass. These moments exist in our lives as brakes, to slow us down, pace ourselves again and regain control. They are there to help us realign, refocus, reconsider our direction, maybe even discover another. They are there to keep us safe. They are meant to be embraced with strength, faith and hope. They're meant to be enjoyed enthusiastically. They are meant to be made the best of. I'm going to do just that. One day at a time.

Me-time Plans

Unplug - Get off social media more

Read

Photograph things

Pamper myself

Exercise

Create some thing

Reorganize room

Get out in the sun more

Look out for some thing new around the neighbourhood

Learn a new skill

WHAT I'LL LET MY 18 YEAR OLD SELF TELL ME

Oh look, July has crept up on us! It just hit me that it's my last month being 23. Now that explains why I've been feeling much too much nostalgia all week. Dusted off my 2009 playlist and let my jams run free. It was my ride back to one of the most special year of my life.

2009 was the year I moved to KL for college, fresh out of high school. I remember only having 2 bags full of every thing I owned. Outside of the 2 bags, I took with me the best of me, what was raw- my quirks and curiosity which knew no disappointments, expectations and challenges. Just me in my purest form. Nothing to cloud my vision from seeing the world as beautifully as it can be. 

I wasn't the most studios in my class, but my grades weren't necessarily bad. I had amazing friends, who were always up for fun. We were always looking for opportunities to discover and do some thing new. Every day had a memory that was worth remembering. We stopped for the littlest and most ridiculous things. I remember getting dropped off at college by the taxi with my good girlfriend every day, and we would always stop to sing when the cafeteria blasts our favorite song, no matter how late we were for 8am math class. It was one of my favourite things to do.

Another time, I got so envious that my sister got so sunburnt at Sunway Lagoon that she could not even sleep on her back. When the weekend came, I was off to Lagoon to lay on the beach from morning till the sun was gone. Just to get burn. I just have to laugh at the things I did. 

And who cared about OOTDs? I had my signature look. Side fringe, super layered hair, bangles, hoody, tshirt and short shorts. Nail color? Black. Shoes? Sneakers. Every day. I wore what I liked, didn't need pinterest and what not and I don't remember ever catching myself feeling less than anyone else. or out of place. 

How liberating it is just reminiscing the young & carefree days. So much to realize and learn from as another year of my life unfolds. Every little thing is an opportunity to grow and learn. Even the littlest things should be reached out to and inspected. Every moment is worth savoring and be made into the best. Counter every ounce of negative energy with twice the amount of positive energy. or more. Live on the edge. Life is meant to be experienced to the fullest. and the best way to experience life is to live true to your heart. 

'Maybe the journey isn't so much about becoming anything. Maybe it's about unbecoming everything that isn't really you so you can be who you were meant to be in the first place'. 

COPPER INVASION

I have been having a growing obsession for all things copper lately, and it's tilting towards the high end on the Richter scale of obsession. As long as I don't get off Pinterest, I'm going to have to surrender to being certified copper bonkers. It's rustic, timeless, has a charm of its own and gives the high-end character. At this point I almost want to walk around with a copper spray paint to copperify any thing within reach.

Why not? and why not start with my room? Really, I only need a few glass pieces from Supersave, 2 bottles of copper spray paint, one Saturday afternoon and you have a spray painter on the loose. 

Though I was zonked at the end of it, it was worth it. I actually think it turned out quite well. I am enthralled by the beautiful copper bits and pieces I now have in my room.

IT'S BETTER IN THE MOUNTAINS

"Chasing angels, or fleeing demons, go to the mountains". 

Sabah is beautiful. The break was much needed and I could not have asked for a better place to spend it than somewhere so rich in nature. Nature is one of my favorite remedies. Something about it's raw, pristine and silencing beauty that has the power to expose, heal and cleanse even the deepest and darkest nooks of the soul.

Spent a night in a resort up in Mount Kinabalu. The drive up the winding mountainous roads, going in and out of clouds was magical. I stuck my face out the sunroof and took my time to take in the beauty my surrounding was lavishly spoiling me with. 360 degrees of tropical rain forest mountains and big blue skies, and having cold and fresh air in my face felt like an escape to another world.

Woke up at the crack of dawn and watched the sun rise with the ancient mountain from my window. Watched the first appearance of light penetrating the sky of a brand new day. A day full of the unknown, uncertainty, and hope. My heart could almost burst. I felt like everything I tried to hide from myself was exposed and I felt so vulnerable. But at the same time, I was at peace. I felt strong, hopeful and free.

TRAVELLING LIGHT

I'm jetting off to Sabah tomorrow! Finally. As much as I can't be more excited to explore the islands, watch sunsets, drive up the mountains and just lose my mind, packing gets me every time. How can packing light be ideal and yet deciding on what to and what not to bring along be so frustrating. I always start with fierce determination to apply the less is more theory when I pack, but before I know it, I'm lugging my entire house on my 4 day holiday, up and down the mountains, to the islands, to the park, cramping it up the bus, train and plane fearing for my life to be stopped by a security personnel to question my luggage weight. and what's worst? I don't even use half of the things I brought. I have learnt. Here's some of my tips for travelling light.

Flexibility

My conclusion of the matter is that basics are invented for travelling. It is magical to be able to dress one single basic piece up and down to accommodate both fancy and chaotic extremes a holiday holds and everything in between. Be it a posh dinner at a fancy restaurant to getting lost in the city, or hiking up a mountain, snorkelling, riding a horse or parachute, basics will not let you down while keeping your comfort and style in check. Black, white, and nude are my favorite holiday base colors. This versatile color palette is fun to mix and match around with. and is easily jazzed up with some key pieces, like a bright colored bag, or enormous statement accessories.

Essentials

No. You won't need an exclusive pair of shoes for every outfit. You will not need three different shades of blushers, five brushes and lipsticks in all 7 colors of the rainbow, too. and stop eyeing on your forlorn possessions to bring with, or mining for the crumpled tutu in the pit of your wardrobe dungeon, just incase you might sign up for a local ballet class. Don't pack for the what ifs. You won't need it. If the need arises, you can always buy or borrow it. 

Minis

My least favorite part of packing is always the liquids. Not only do they weigh a million pounds each, they are prone to get messy some how or rather. Fret not. Samples save the Travels! It's the best time to whip out your cute little samples. or decant the liquids into tiny little bottles with seals you can count on. Finally, pop your inny minies into a clear pouch and you're set.

Multi-purpose items

It's shedding the little things that makes all the difference! Pack things that can be used more than one way! I love my Nature Republic Aloe Vera Gel. It can be used as a face, skin and hair moisturizer, make up base, face mask, shaving gel, and even be used to calm sunburns. It's basically the perfect multipurpose product to take on holiday. 

What are your tips for travelling light?