Back in the Game

Hi,

Well hello there, beautiful internet people! Can you believe it's been a whole week since I last scribbled down my thoughts? I've been busy, you know, fighting gravity and trying to convince my body to look less like a pillow and more like a warrior.

Speaking of that war... I just wrapped up my daily sweat session! I recently decided to spice things up in my cardio routine by strapping on some weights. At first, my heart rate was chilling, literally acting like it was just having a nice warm-up stroll. It was basically saying, "Nah, we're not running, we're just window shopping for calories." Rude! So I thought, "Fine, you want a challenge?" I added a dash more weight, and guess what? It worked! 🎉

I’ve started dating some heavy metal friends... they’re called dumbbells. 😉

In just one glorious week, I've torched more calories than I have in an entire month! My heart rate finally got the memo and has been living its best life in the fat-burning zone. The downside? My arms feel like they've been adopted by a gorilla.😂But seeing that tidal wave of sweat at the end of every session? Pure satisfaction! Those droplets are just my fats crying. Bawling their little eyes out. Damn you, fats! Get out of my body! 

I gotta do this, because let's be real, at this age, my relationship with food is firmly in the "It's Complicated... But Mostly Delicious" category. I eat what I want! And yes, once in a blue moon (or maybe last week), I indulge in my favourite midnight snack ritual, desserts at 10 PM, just a few hours before I hit the bed.

Like last week, I had a two-night stand with the most amazing pecan tart slices. They were almost as good as the legendary Woolworths AUD2 slices (a true staple of my life). Of course, when I find a dessert doppelgänger, I have to celebrate! I know, I know, sugar police would throw me in jail. But my philosophy is simple, love your desserts, love your workouts. So I balance it out with green things and daily exercise.

This isn't just a tart, it's a reason to cross oceans. 

Ugh, I might have to book an emergency flight to Australia just to get my fix

Anyway, can you believe we're already halfway through November? The end-of-year sprint is on! Next week, I'm off to Indonesia! 

This brings up a very important, slightly traumatic memory. Last year, I caught the dreaded Flu B on my trip to Bukit Tinggi. I'm contemplating getting the flu shot this time around. I think I need to level up my travel prep from pack clothes and passport to pack clothes, passport, and a vaccine. Wish me luck!

Okay, that's all the rambling I have for today. Time to rehydrate and try to convince my sore muscles they still love me.

Have a super lovely and completely cry-free weekend! Bye! 👋

Surviving Saturday

Hi,

Can you believe the first week of November is already in the rearview mirror? Poof! Gone! This month is secretly my favorite because it's when I get my annual dose of human connection. It always starts with a sweet birthday wish, and before you know it, we're catching up on everything. From major life updates to whether we've finally organized that junk drawer. I seriously appreciate everyone who shows me their kind side. You guys are the best! But let's be honest, if you bring the sassy energy, I'm definitely going to match it. 😉

So, since sleep decided to ghost me tonight, I figured I'd update you all on the chaos that is tomorrow's schedule. Mission mode activated! Will drive across the island and all over Penang today. Brace yourselves!

My daughter has a school event and is officially entering her too cool for mom pre-teen phase. She was all, "Just drop me off and pick me up later,". Hard pass, sweetie. You can go have your fun, but my eagle eyes will still be operating from a tactical distance. Don't worry, I brought snacks for surveillance.🍭

We fight. We match outfits. It's a complicated, chaotic, and beautiful mom-daughter mess!

And then there's my youngest. At the exact same time, he has a pre-selection test for KAFA next year. He's actually heading into his primary school life! Seriously, can someone please remind me how old I am again? Why are my children acting like they can file their own taxes already? This mom is not ready for them to be so grown up. Excuse me while I go have a dramatic cry in the corner. 😭

My favourite little bosses! They are the reason for all the beautiful chaos.

Right after my dual-mission-parenting is complete, I have another bigger mission that I have been delaying for ages. We need to get serious about preparing for their winter holiday. Think proper sub-zero temperature gear because no one wants a grumpy, chilly kid! My brain is already turning into a to-do list, so I really need to sit down and write everything out before I forget the essentials (like, you know, pants).

Okay, that's my transmission for now! I'm off to play the intense, multi-tasking role of Mom-on-Duty tomorrow. Have a fantastically amazing weekend with your loved ones! Bye for now! 💕

Our AI Training Recap

Hi, 

Hang on!✋Is it just me, or did the week hit the gas pedal? I'm currently running on Surabaya countdown mode with a mountain of to-dos! Less than three weeks till I hop on a plane to Indonesia, and my brain is a flurry of planning! Airplane? Check! ✈️ Hotel? Check! 🏨 Presentation materials? Err... maybe on the to-do list. Formal agenda? Nailed it! Informal exploring/snack-hunting? Definitely going with the flow! 

But before I lose my mind in airport transfers and meeting schedules, I have to spill the beans about the training we had last weekend: the Training on AI Enhancement for Semiconductors and Visual Computing. Phew, that's a mouthful, but trust me, it was awesome! I was there, rocking the roles of workshop instructor and chief enthusiasm officer (a.k.a. facilitator). 😉

Day 1 was all about dipping our toes into the wild world of AI and Semiconductors. Even I learned a few new tricks! My main gig? Throwing open the curtains and yelling, "Surprise! Math is the superhero behind absolutely everything in the semiconductor industry. From design blueprints to the factory floor!" Seriously, if you love math, you're basically an industry VIP.

Day 2? That's when the real party started! We kicked off with an incredible speaker from the industry. She didn't just share cool chip secrets, she gave our math grads the ultimate blueprint for how they can step up and become the in-demand math wizards the sector is looking for. 🤩

She revealed how math grads can be the unseen architects powering those incredible microchips.

Even us academics were totally blown away, realizing the huge role we can play in shaping the AI-semiconductor future!

Then came the grand finale! We split the brilliant students into four epic AI-powered clusters: Alexa, Bixby, Gemini, and Copilot! (Talk about a tech dream team!) Their mission, should they choose to accept it? Five hours to create a jaw-dropping, world-problem-solving proposal using a super combo of math and AI.

My mission during the group work? To be the chief energizer bunny 😆

After all that brainpower, we had the tough (but fun!) job of scoring every awesome proposal they pitched.

The energy in that massive ballroom was absolutely electric! Think fast-paced music pumping, students brainstorming like mad scientists, and the buzz of pure, focused creativity. They pitched their hearts out within their clusters, and the winning group from each one got to present their ideas to the whole crowd! It was so much fun, it should probably be illegal.

By the time we wrapped up, yes, we were all officially running on fumes (and maybe a little caffeine), but the feeling of accomplishment? Extraordinary! Watching those students bring their A-game and light up with ideas was truly inspiring. This isn't just a training; it needs to be an annual, must-attend event!

The enormous ballroom was packed. Hitting 10,000 steps in just a few hours was effortless.

We nailed it thanks to our strong collaboration and effective teamwork.

Well, that's everything about it! The event went off without a hitch. Even the organizing crew was totally hyped. That feeling of success? Worth every minute. Here's hoping we can keep this momentum going and do even more beneficial things for our students. Catch you later! Bye.

The Big 4-0

Hi,

It's the third day of November, and guess what? I've officially crossed the threshold by one day! I'm now writing to you as a forty-year-old woman. Yes, forty. The age my teenage self thought was ancient. You know, the one where you start wearing sensible shoes and talking about the good old days. And now, look at me! I've joined the club! Someone please send a membership card and maybe a coupon for a good chiropractor. 😂

So, how does it feel to be forty? To be honest? Absolutely, hilariously nothing has changed. I woke up, still the same person, still a mother of two trying to figure out which sock matches the other, and still living a life that's aggressively normal. It's almost disappointing! I was expecting a sudden surge of ancient wisdom or maybe the ability to understand tax forms, but nope. Nothing's changed.

Oh, wait, there is one thing. Apparently, this is the age you start performing an obsessive, daily gray hair check. I'm committed in searching for that first silver streak. People say it signifies wisdom, but so far, my head is still full of black hair and the knowledge of where the kids hide their party candy. No gray, no wisdom, I guess. I'm taking applications for wisdom-bestowing gray hairs, I should apply within!

So, what did I do for my monumental fortieth birthday? I worked the whole day! Gone are the days of elaborate, week-long celebrations (which you can totally look up in my historical archives, aka old posts). Now that I'm aging like a fine wine (that occasionally forgets where I left my keys), I'm all about the private, low-key celebration with only my absolute favorite humans.

Behold: The cutest, tiniest, simplest birthday cake I've ever received. It was absolutely perfect. 

Exactly what this forty-year-old needed. 

A few years back, I did the adult thing and turned off all my birthday notifications on every platform. It's wonderful! Now, when a wish comes in, I know it's genuine, and not just Facebook reminding someone I exist. I truly appreciate the love from my family and close friends, the ones who matter the most. 💕

And here's the absolute highlight that made turning forty feel like winning, I got a personal birthday text message from my dad! My dad, the man whose birthday wishes are as rare as a quiet Saturday morning. He usually either forgets (which we've all made peace with) or delegates the wishing to my mom. But this year? A solo text! I'm pretty sure a comet passed and a unicorn was born, it was truly a momentous and cherished occasion.💫

That rare, personal birthday wish from Bapak? A true collector's item!

So, that's my humble, slightly fuzzy-around-the-edges beginning as an "old person" (per my former, judgmental teenage self). I'll be over here, vigorously checking my scalp for that very first wisdom-streak. Wish me luck! 

See you soon. Bye!

Our Big Weekend Training

Hi,

The universal struggle is real, folks! My bed and I had a date, but clearly, sleep got lost on the way. The rain is absolutely pouring outside, making it impossible to drift off. So instead of counting sheep (which, let's be honest, would probably just turn into a flock of formulas at this point), I was burning the midnight oil. Or maybe it was the pre-dawn oil, prepping training materials. Yes, my weekend forecast looks like this: 100% chance of work! 😅

We're gearing up for a big two-day training session for over 200 of our undergraduate and postgraduate students. The hot topics? Semiconductors and AI! Think of it as giving their brains a powerful, tiny computer chip upgrade.

Day 1 is all about getting down to business. Day 2 is where we get to have some fun!

All the instructors are tag-teaming this knowledge fest, each handling two sessions. As for me? I get to dive deep into the exciting world of Mathematics for Semiconductors using AI. We're hoping that by Sunday evening, the students will have an "Aha!" moment and see how cool these tiny electronic components are and how AI is their perfect sidekick.

Okay, my alarm clock is practically weeping, and the actual bed is now officially making desperate calls. Tomorrow starts bright and early with a lecture. Looks like I'll be starting the new month with a delightful weekend steeped in numbers and formulas. Don't worry, I'll try to sneak in a coffee break. 😉

Looking forward to catching you in the new month! Bye.✨

Happily Exhausted

Hi,

I’m baaaack! Saturday was basically a two-for-one deal where I got to be two totally different people. Seriously, I felt like a human coin flip!😂

During the day, my inner tourist took over. I had a blast doing all the things I haven't done in ages, like just wandering! I put on my best walking shoes and treated the city center like a giant playground. I walked from one train station to the next, just checking out the stores and sights along the way. My absolute highlight? The mini-reunion with my girlfriend! It was way too short, but we crammed in a ton of laughs and catching up. The entire day was just so calm and totally content. It was pure bliss!

We don't do 'often,' we do 'whenever it matters.'

Then the sun went down, and the fun-and-games time ended. It was officially 'real business' time. My brain switched gears, and suddenly I was knee-deep in a swamp of numbers, formulas, and all things serious. Honestly, I felt like I was back in school, having my math foundations tested to the extreme! But you know what? That’s actually a good thing. If I didn't do this, I'd never give my brain the refresh it needs. And hey, the first session just now was actually super productive! Take that, calculus and algebra! 😏

After all that walking and all that thinking, I finally made it back to my room and realized how completely drained I was, physically and mentally. But it’s the good kind of tired, the kind that feels earned! Now, I’m sitting here writing this, looking out my window, and the KL Tower is standing right there, all tall and pretty. What a gorgeous view to end a crazy, productive day.

I'm mesmerized looking at the tower's color-changing lights.

I guess that's my cue to hit the bed. Got a couple of super long days coming up, so I need to get some serious beauty sleep.

Have a fun Sunday, everyone! Bye!💕

Luxury Day Unlocked

Hi,

Brrr! Seriously, who cranked up the freezer to maximum? ☃ It's been absolutely icy for days, all thanks to the rainy season. But hey, I'm secretly loving this big chill! It's the perfect excuse to bundle up and get extra cozy. It's like nature is giving us a giant blanket, and I'm happy!

But this morning? Whoa. Waking up felt super strange, like my brain hit the 'skip routine' button. Usually, I'm stuck in the treadmill of habit, running on robot-mode. When I step outside my normal, everyday routine, it feels so surprisingly good. It's like a secret little holiday just for me! We all get stuck doing the same things, so breaking free is a real treat! It's strangely, wonderfully luxurious.

And then came the best news, the thing I was supposed to start super early got moved later! That means the whole day is now MINE! I've been given a golden ticket to fun, and I'm treating this like a totally luxurious free day. I have to squeeze in all the fun I can before I have to get serious tonight.

Right smack in the middle of KL city centre.

So many options to explore, so little time! Let's do this!

My plan is simple, maximum joy, zero regrets! I have a whole list of fun stuff. I need to go find that yummy new food I've been wanting to try, and I have to call up a friend for an impromptu hang-out! Just thinking about what clothes to wear and where to go has me super pumped and excited! Honestly, for us ladies, even little things like a fun unplanned plan can make us cheer. Just don't mess with our good mood, things can get crazy fast! 😂 Time to go have an epic day! Toodles!🎉

Running on Empty

Hi,

My workplace is completely decked out with holiday lights, clearly it’s all festive vibes right now! But my brain and body are stuck in get it done mode. It’s my plain setting of just keep on working and checking things off my list. While everyone else is enjoying holiday activities, I’m busy trying to figure out the plans for my next two work trips.

First, I have a meeting in Kuala Lumpur. Of course, the universe decided this trip had to happen right in the middle of it when the city is going into a total lockdown for some huge ASEAN meeting. Ugh. My main job now is to find a way around this big headache. I’m choosing to be a public transport traveler, which means I'll be dragging my suitcase in and out of trains. I need to bring back the fun, strong version of myself from when I was younger! I’m looking in the mirror and asking, "Am I too old for this baggage battle?" Guess I'll find out! Time for a big energy boost, or maybe just a very strong coffee.😂

Guess I found the perfect way to 'see' KL. Looking at the inside of my hotel room. 

Thanks, total lockdown! 😑

Right after KL, I have to finish getting ready for my November trip. I’m going to be a speaker at a research colloquium in a mobility event. I’m tired of the old, boring presentations that focus on findings only. Guess I will ditch those kind. This time, I just want to share about how my research ideas have changed and grown over the years. I hope it’s not too boring and will get people excited to listen and who knows, work with me in the future.

All these big, exciting things should keep me super busy already. But the main issue is that my body feels like it has a low battery warning. My mind and body aren't cooperating when I need to do all this hard thinking and planning. It’s a classic problem, great plans, zero energy. Still, I just have to keep going until it’s all done. Maybe that little holiday feeling will finally kick in and help me cross the finish line!

But hey, I've already mastered this endless grind. I'll just think of this challenging travel and exciting presentation as my own personal adventure to-do-list. Time to power up with some holiday cheer (and maybe an extra shot of espresso) and prove that this exhausted engine still has the power to win the race.

The Great Campus Discovery

Hi,

It’s the dark side of a long weekend and here I am, doing what I do best: catching up on all the life updates I’ve stuffed into a mental drawer during the work week. Weekdays are a whirlwind! I have so many thoughts that beg to be written down, but by the time I crash at night, the only thing I can manage is silence. Midnight on a weekend? That’s my payback time. 😎

I knew my work schedule involved sitting still long enough to fuse to my chair, so I decided to combat the Zombie state by getting outside. I’ve found my sanity hack, and it involves trading four wheels for two feet. Now, my official work day starts with my very own, very determined outdoor morning walk at 7:30 AM, solely dedicated to sending my boy off to school on foot.

We’re a happy little duo, hands clasped, joining the swarm of other students who are buzzing down the campus roads, rushing to make their 8 AM classes. The best part? The distance to his school is a pathetic 850 meters. Yes, seriously, it is THAT close! It’s practically a hop, a skip, and a jump. 😂 

However, that 850 meters is a journey of epic proportions. It typically takes us 12 minutes, which includes the mandatory stops for inspecting centipedes, giving a respectful nod to any unfortunate baby snakes that didn't make it, and, of course, chasing a few birds. We call it The Wildlife Commute.

After a cheerful (and slightly sweaty) goodbye, the real adventure begins. I continue my walk around campus for another 30 minutes, usually until 8:30 AM. My rule is simple, no plans, no maps. I use a different, unplanned route every single time. I just follow where my feet bring me, and I don’t stop until my watch proudly announces I’ve hit the 4 or 5 kilometer mark.

This little ritual has become pure joy. I get to wave and say hello to random people, but my favourite part is the quick chats with the uncles and aunties who are diligently sweeping up the fallen leaves. They make my day! Especially when they assume I’m one of the undergraduate students frantically rushing to an early lecture. Naturally, I say, "Yes, rushing right now!" It’s like a tiny, fun act of youthful identity theft every morning. 😅

Before this, I’ve been using my car to move around USM, totally missing everything. I lived right beside the beauty without ever appreciating it. It’s a bit embarrassing, really! But now that I’m exploring places on foot, I’ve stumbled upon so many beautiful, hidden spots that I’d love to revisit. Our campus has such a gorgeous landscape, and I was just zooming past it, focused on finding the nearest parking spot.

Before I started my morning walk routine, I've been living comfortably in the G31 bubble for more than a decade. Now I’m finally giving myself the chance to explore every nook and corner. It feels good to appreciate the beauty of our campus and everything it offers.

That morning glow! ✨ 

This stunning Penang Bridge view is just a glimpse of the beauty we have right here on the USM campus.

I’ve been hitting my daily challenge of 10,000 to 15,000 steps for months now, and the energy is still going strong! It’s not just about feeling physically healthier (though that's a huge bonus), but the mental clarity is phenomenal. I definitely recommend ditching the car and letting your feet lead the way.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to post this before my long weekend finally collapses into sleep! Keep that energy strong, lovelies! Bye! 💕

Celebrating Achievement

Hi,

It's the weekend! And while that usually means mentally checking out and starting the countdown to sleep in, it also means we've got a few crucial hours to tackle those last course details. Yep, the goal for this week is still pending. It’s like the finish line moved, but we’re close enough to make a final sprint! 

The good news? The lecture material is officially on track! I can breathe a sigh of relief there. That's a huge win, so let's mark that down as mission accomplished... for now.

The hurdle? The infamous tutorial tangle.

Seriously, trying to schedule tutorial sessions that accommodate students from the School of Maths and a few other schools is like playing a round of high-stakes Tetris where none of the pieces fit. Their calendars are all over the place! It's an impossible mission. I'm pretty sure achieving that perfect slot would require bending the laws of space and time.

Tutorials aren't just an optional extra, they're the main event for engagement! Lectures give them the map. Tutorials teach them how to drive. It's the dedicated space for students to drill down on the tricky concepts.

I'm making a pact with myself to use these sessions for close interaction. It's not just about me explaining things, it's about seeing who's genuinely grinding. You can tell a lot about effort just by watching how they tackle a problem face-to-face.

Speaking of effort... our school just wrapped up the Dean's List Certificate Ceremony, and man, was that a sight!

The Dean's List recipient at the iconic DK G31 stairs.

I don't recall getting a certificate for good results back in my day. Maybe just a pat on the back and a "don't mess up next semester" note. 😂But you could see the pure pride on the students' faces. Their hustle was seen, recognized, and celebrated. That's a powerful thing.

It's a fantastic way to appreciate their hard work. I'm hopeful this moment inspires them to keep that momentum going strong, and that their success becomes the spark that lights a fire under their friends. Let's aim to have an even longer line for that list next semester!

Okay, time to buckle down, finalize these tutorial schedules, and then enjoy that well-earned weekend victory lap. Let's get it done!

A Calculus Guide to Life

Hi,

Phew! I'm officially back from the judging marathon! I've been focusing on all the brilliant submissions for the Photo Challenge, and seriously, they all brought their A-game. Choosing one winner is like trying to pick my favourite slice of pizza. Impossible, but a crucial task! 🍕

First off, huge congrats to everyone! Their effort was genuinely outstanding, and because of that, every single student is getting an extra percentage added to their Coursework grade. Consider it a thank-up for being awesome.

But, you know how it is. One group's submission was just so mind-blowingly creative that they deserve a special prize from me. The decision is still giving me a headache (the good kind!), but stay tuned for the big reveal!

Amidst all the fantastic photos, one group's image struck a nerve with its deep, philosophical, and yes... mathematical motto:

"Differentiate your effort today, integrate your success tomorrow."

Forget inspirational posters. This is real wisdom wrapped up in calculus! Let’s break down this beautiful piece of math-poetry, shall we?

1. Differentiate Your Effort

In plain math-speak, differentiation is all about finding the rate of change.

• If we talk about your Effort (E), finding dE/dt​ is not just about how much you work, but how that work is changing over time (t).

• The Big Idea: This means you shouldn't just run on the 'effort treadmill' mindlessly. Instead, you need to be a detective of your own work!

  • Ask: Is my rate of effort increasing? Am I hitting a plateau? Am I wasting energy on pointless tasks?

  • In other words: Don’t just work hard, work smart and adaptively! Analyze the marginal increase. That little bit extra? That makes a real difference. 

2. Integrate Your Success

Now for the fun part! In math, integration means finding the total accumulation of something.

• If we look at your instantaneous success rate (s) over time, Total Success is the integral ∫s(t)dt.

• The Big Idea: Success isn't one giant victory moment, it's the sum of a million little victories!

  • Think of it like building a Lego castle: each tiny brick (each successful study session, each tricky problem solved) accumulates into the magnificent final structure.

  • In other words: Don't discount the small wins! Notice every bit of progress, celebrate that tiny area under the curve of your growth, and let those successes accumulate into a massive achievement.

3. The Power Combo: Differentiate Effort, Integrate Success

Putting it all together gives us a powerful life strategy:

• Be a Smart Worker (Differentiation): Constantly analyze and adjust your effort to be more efficient and impactful. Be mindful.

• Be an Optimistic Builder (Integration): Recognize, gather, and build upon every little success you achieve. Growth is cumulative!

Thanks to the creative minds behind this submission for giving us a calculus-based roadmap to crush our goals! Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a winner to decide! Stay tuned!

Differential Equations 101

Hi,

Wow, talk about a time warp! Seriously, where did the first week of the new semester go? It feels like I blinked and missed it, but hey, the good news is all those deadline-hungry tasks are finally done. Phew! That's the sound of stress leaving the building! 🎉

My first three hours of MAT223 - Differential Equations 1 lecture are officially in the books, and let me tell you, this class is a beast! I'm talking a record-breaking 267 students. I think I need a megaphone just to say 'Good morning!'😅

The distribution of my students. My personal mission? To make the non-math students love my class so much, they secretly wish I taught all their subjects! (Sorry, home school lecturer!😉)

Every semester, my number one mission is to become the students' favourite math cheerleader. Why? Because I'm convinced that if they love the lecturer, they're far more likely to love the course. I don't want them to look at Differential Equations like it's a villain in a movie, just because they didn't like my opening act.

The subject itself? Sure, it can be a bit like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded. But if they're willing to dive in, passing the course is totally achievable, and acing it is even easier! My main goal is to be a part of the solution, not the problem, especially since math anxiety seems to be hitting new highs these days.

Their initial impressions were a little... worrying. Looks like I have some serious work to do!

My plan for that first lecture was simple, make them love me, then make them love the subject. My perfectly-prepared lecture notes? I waved goodbye to them! Instead, I decided to lean into what this generation does best, their phones!📱

So, we launched the DE Wefie Challenge! I figured, if they're going to have their devices out anyway, we might as well make it a math party. 🎉

And seriously, they crushed it! Within just a few hours, our shared sheet started filling up with hilarious and creative submissions. I was so impressed by their effort that I had to reward them! I promised them some sweet, sweet extra percentage points for their Coursework mark later, and they went absolutely bananas (in a good way, of course!).

Check out some of the early submissions! Seriously, they've already won my heart (and maybe some extra points)!💖

Mission accomplished! My main objective for the first lecture, to get them excited and comfortable is A-C-H-I-E-V-E-D!

Now that the fun foundation is set, I'm genuinely pumped for the rest of the semester. What crazy, fun ideas should I try next to keep the energy up? 🤔

Melody and Memories

Hi,

I’m finally back after a long, long day, and I had to share a quick update before I crash. The wedding was an absolute blast!

They're more than just friends. They're my chosen sisters.

30 years of friendship, and every moment was worth it!

My 'official' job at the registration table was surprisingly smooth sailing. We were using an app called thebigdays where guests confirmed their attendance using pre-issued QR codes. It was easy peasy: scan the code, confirm the headcount, check the table number, and voila! they were ushered into the hall. Truly the simplest task ever!

Once most of the RSVP'd guests had checked in, the event manager gave us the green light to go inside and enjoy the main event. Everything was classic and efficient: the beautiful walk down the aisle, the romantic music, the prayers, and the lovely salam restu moment with the groom's parents. Dinner was then served quickly and straightforwardly. The atmosphere was just pure happiness.

Now for the best part.

Just as we settled in to eat, the live band started prepping to entertain us. My first thought was, "Great, here come the universal wedding staples." You know the drill: songs like 'Can't Help Falling in Love,' 'A Thousand Years,' 'Sedetik Lebih,' and 'Sempurna.' Beautiful, yes, but predictable.

But the moment that band kicked off the music, I instantly thought, "OMG, my song!" Of all the beautiful love songs in the world, they chose this exact one to open the night? A song that lives permanently on repeat on my YouTube playlist? I've told you before how much I adore a live band, and now they were performing my absolute favorite song as I once mentioned HERE? That moment alone made the whole event unforgettable. 💕

Jerat.

The song is completely stuck in my head now, a perfect little earworm to sleep on. Thank you, fantastic live band! I got a few clips! Was so busy singing along, I almost forgot to hit record.

I think that's all for tonight. I’m heading back to Penang early tomorrow morning, and work will resume with a new semester on Monday. Wish me luck getting back into reality! Until my next update, bye! 😘

Brain on Overdrive

Hi,

It’s official: My brain thinks it's an all-night think tank, and it refuses to clock out. I'm supposed to be tucked away in Slumberland already, but apparently, my mind is more interested in running a marathon of 'What Ifs' and 'To-Do Lists.' Since shutting down isn't happening, I figured I’d do the next best thing: dump a little life update here.

So, I’m currently chilling in Kuala Lumpur for a wedding dinner. But this isn't a simple 'show up and eat' situation. I’ve been roped into the very important registration crew! The groom? My childhood best friend's little brother. The four of us, the legendary EIJEY's, are officially on duty for our 'little brother's' big day. 

The amazing crew. Est: 1995.

Seriously, I used to chase the groom, Ajib around the house when he was still rocking a diaper. Now he's getting married. Please remind me how old I am again, because I'm starting to feel like a vintage item! I’m fine, I’m totally fine. Just quietly calculating my age in a corner. 😭

The main event is going down at the Sime Darby Convention Centre (my go-to spot for buka puasa feasts, no less), and I'll just be 'Grab-ing it' there, easy peasy. Before the wedding chaos, I'm squeezing in a much-needed visit to my uncle at Hospital Ampang. He’s been through a rough patch, and I'm so happy he's doing better after a few days in the ICU. Sending some love his way before I start my registry duties!

I'll be honest, keeping myself this busy is a fantastic distraction from the less-than-fun things going on right now. A little chaos is good for the soul, right? It's going to be a seriously long day tomorrow, but I'm going to soak up every minute of it.

Anyway, that’s all for now. My brain might finally be slowing down, or maybe it’s just running out of updates. Time to give Slumberland one last attempt before the wedding madness begins. Talk soon, bye! 😊

My Unexpected Day Off

Hi,

It was one of those mornings where you feel like a superhero. The alarm goes off, everyone is up on time, and the kids are actually cooperating. As a person who always deals with complicated schedules, I was perfectly executing the great parental race. I got my older daughter to her school without a single complaint or forgotten item, and I even felt a little smug about it.

Then, ready next is my six-year-old son to his kindergarten. But as we pulled into the parking lot, a sense of quiet dread washed over me. The lot was empty. Not a single car. The main gate was locked shut. It was a complete ghost town.

That’s when it hit me. Like a forgotten pop song stuck in your head, the memory of a school announcement came flooding back. The school was on a special holiday after their "Fun Walk" event. I had been defeated by a kindergarten calendar. Me! A so-called professional who handles research meetings and student vivas had been outsmarted by a simple day off. 😂

There was no way I could take him to my office. A six-year-old and a quiet, academic workspace just don’t mix. It would be a disaster waiting to happen. So at 8:30 in the morning, just when everyone else was settling in for their workday, I was already heading home. My perfectly planned morning was a total failure.

Luckily, there were no important meetings on my schedule today, so I was able to work from home. My little co-worker was in charge, which, I learned, mostly involves singing loudly and asking for snacks every five minutes. It wasn't the day I planned, but it was definitely one for the books.

And as I am sitting down in front of my computer, trying to get my work done with a little boy singing at the top of his lungs, I couldn't help but think of the perfect soundtrack for this whole ordeal. What better song for a day that fell apart on September 29th than "Wake Me Up When September Ends"? 

A beautifully haunting song.

With that, as September comes to a close, I hope it has been a truly fruitful month for you. Wishing you a wonderful and successful start to October. I'm really looking forward to a fresh start and a successful month ahead. 😄

Midnight Musings

Hi,

It's officially past midnight on a Saturday, which means it’s my usual 'me time.' The house is finally quiet, everyone is tucked in, and I'm supposed to be following suit. But of course, my brain decided to stay up and run through my to-do list for the next century. Sleep can wait, I guess. It's not like I need it for the next back-to-back events, right? 😉

We had a school event for Adam this morning, and next we have his Taekwondo grading tomorrow. My internal alarm clock is set to 'earlier than the sun' every single day, and I'm pretty sure my morning commute to the island is going to be my daily cardio.

I usually live for the weekend. It's a time to stay longer in my pajamas and do absolutely nothing. But when there's a school event, it's a completely different story. It takes a superhero-level of motivation to drag myself and the kids out of the house. The one thing that keeps me going? The promise of food! Earlier today, we bribed ourselves with sushi. The kids are obsessed now, and my heart melts a little every time they ask for it. I've finally found my sushi buddies!🍣

We all wore yellow to support his school's Fun Walk, which had a yellow theme. It was like a sea of sunshine! 🌞

Anyway, remember how I was celebrating the semester break with no classes? Well, just like that, the break is over in a week. I'm welcoming the new semester with a very confused feeling, like a kitten chasing its own tail. I usually start by checking my students' profiles. Some are taking my course because it's required, while others choose it as an elective because they heard it's actually fun. And wouldn't you know it, the students who 'want' to be there always perform better. Motivation is a powerful thing, for them and for me.

Alright, my bed is officially calling my name, and I'm pretty sure tomorrow is going to be a marathon. Time to get some rest! Goodnight! 😊

The Best Kind of Power-Up

Hi,

Today was one of those crazy, non-stop work days where my to-do list was a mile long, but then I got a text from my little sister saying that she and my parents would like to take me out for lunch. My brain immediately went from "work mode" to "family time!", I basically dropped everything and said yes to lunch.

Family fuel. 😊

It was the perfect reset button, a total power-up from the best support system a girl could ask for. It had been way too long since they visited me at work, and it's funny how no matter how old I get or how much I've grown up, being with them brings out that little girl in me every single time. It's an instant feeling of home. 

It's truly amazing how a simple visit from our parents can do that. That sense of home and unconditional love is incredible. It's a reminder of where we came from and gives us the strength to face anything, knowing we have that solid foundation to fall back on. It's that feeling of being completely accepted and supported, no questions asked. It's the kind of power-up you can't get anywhere else.

So, here's to those unexpected family drop-ins! They're the perfect, instant pick-me-up and a great excuse to remember that no matter what's on your schedule, the best things in life aren't things at all, they're moments with the people you love. 💕

More Than a Degree

Hi,

Here I am again, burning the midnight oil. But tonight, it's not just the deadline keeping me up, it's a trip down memory lane to the land Down Under. My buddy, Abang Din, went back to Wollongong today and decided to mercilessly spam our group chat with photos of him revisiting all our old hangouts. The weather and views look amazing since it's spring there, and I know he did it for one reason only, to make us all green with envy!😑

I’m usually the silent lurker in group chats. I read everything (just in case someone's planning a surprise party so I wouldn't miss it 😂), then I delete it all without a second thought. But tonight, the nostalgia hit me hard. I found myself scrolling back through years of old posts and pictures, and suddenly, I was a part of the conversation again. In silent of course. 😉

Reading all those stories and seeing all those photos was like a warm hug from the past. It put a big, goofy smile on my face. I didn't realize until now just how much my time in Wollongong changed me. If anyone asks what I did for four years there, my first answer is always the same. "I did my PhD". That's the simple, straightforward answer. It's the official story.

But the real story isn't on that degree.

The real story is written in the late-night coffee runs, the spontaneous road trips, and the friends who became family. It’s in the salty air of the Wollongong harbour beach and the echo of laughter from our favourite chill spots around uni. It's in the quiet conversations on the bench near the duck pond that taught me more about life than any textbook ever could.

That degree says I earned a title, but those years gave me a life. They gave me a community, a collection of shared experiences, and a new perspective on the world. The challenges I faced weren't just about my studies, they were about learning how to be resilient, how to connect with people from all walks of life, and how to build a home far away from home.

So, while I'm proud of completing the degree, I'm even more grateful for everything that isn't on it. My time in Wollongong was more than an academic pursuit, it was a journey of a lifetime. And that's a story worth telling.

This photo, taken exactly 10 years ago, still gives me chills every time I look at it. The emotion isn't about the degree itself, but everything that went into the process of earning it. 

It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget about the moments that shaped us. So, here's a little reminder, those good old days weren't just a moment in time, they were the foundation for who we are today. Keep chasing new memories, but don't forget to look back and appreciate the ones that made you who you are. And remember, the best stories are still ahead! 💕

Finally Home

Hi,

So, I've finally made it to the finish line! I just survived an insane trip that started early in the morning. My trip from Melaka to Penang, which should've been a quick 4.5 to 5 hours, turned into a 7-hour marathon. I thought the traffic would be light after the long holiday, but boy, was I wrong! It felt like every single car in the country decided to hit the road at the same time. 😑

Even we only had two days in Melaka, but they were special. I made sure to take the kids to see their Atok and Nenek at their home in Jasin. It's so important for me that the kids feel excited about seeing them there, not just anywhere else. Seeing their little faces light up when they're with their grandparents makes all the long hours in the car disappear.

The Jasin family. Distance shouldn't break their bond.

Even though we live way up north, I want the kids to feel a true connection to their hometown in the south. Their Atok and Nenek are people I deeply respect, and I want the kids to grow up feeling the same way about them, no matter what happens. This trip, although tiring, is all about making sure they feel that love and respect. The drive home might be a real drag, but it's totally worth it.💕

Anyway, getting home was just the first part of the challenge. The real test came next, a huge pile of laundry and a mountain of luggage to unpack. Honestly, it gave me a massive headache! But now, all the chores are done. The laundry is put away, the bags are empty, and I can finally just sit and relax. Thank goodness it's still school holiday, so I don't have to wake up very early for work tomorrow. I'm just going to be lazy and enjoy the peace and quiet. Now, if you'll excuse me, my couch and I have a date with a very long nap. Bye!😉

A Family Affair

Hi,

Well, hello there! It's been a minute. I know, I know, I've been a ghost. My writing mojo went on vacation, leaving me in a creative desert. I could say I was super busy, but let's be real, I was mostly just chilling. For four glorious days, I completely ditched my work machine, and my phone? That thing probably thought I broke up with it. The battery lasted two whole days, which for a modern phone, is basically an eternity.

So what's my excuse for this digital disappearing act? A big family reunion! You might remember me mentioning my awesome family, the Dollah Clan, or as we like to call ourselves, the DC. We just wrapped up DC 4.0, and it was epic.

The family is growing, both in numbers and in size. 😆

Our whole family gathering tradition started back in 2017. We rented a villa in Port Dickson for DC 1.0 just to make our grandmother happy. She was so thrilled to see everyone together and she told us to keep our family bond strong forever. Sadly, she passed away not long after, but her wish became our mission.

We kept the tradition alive with DC 2.0 in 2019, moving to a bigger villa in Rawang because, well, the family was getting bigger! We thought we'd do this every two years, but then COVID-19 showed up and decided to crash the party. For four loooong years, our grand gatherings were put on hold. We saw each other for big holidays and weddings, but it just wasn't the same. We were all missing that special family day vibe.

Once the world started getting back to normal, we kicked things back into gear with DC 3.0. Our family had grown even more, thanks to new marriages and babies, so a regular villa just wouldn't cut it. We needed a mansion! We found the perfect spot in Melaka and had an amazing time.

And that brings us to this past weekend and DC 4.0. Sticking to our biennial plan, 2025 was our year. This time, we needed a place big enough for 50 adults and 15 kids for three days of non-stop fun. After a massive search (shoutout to the amazing committee!😘), we found our home for the weekend: Santika in Hulu Langat. It's this beautiful place with a rustic, kampung feel and all the amenities we needed.

So there you have it, my four-day digital detox. I decided to trade in screens for sunshine, and honestly, it was the best decision. Now that I'm back in the real world, I feel refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes my way. I'll catch you on the flip side! Bye! 💕

My Dad, My First Bookstore Date

Hi,

Today is a special day! Happy 65th birthday to my wonderful dad! We had an early celebration this past weekend, and it was so much fun looking back on all the wild and wonderful memories we've made.

My dad is probably the most chill person on the planet. I’m pretty sure his secret superpower is being a human 'easy mode' button for life. My childhood was an absolute blast, all thanks to him. I remember being this tiny, four-year-old shadow, following him everywhere, even to his job. I'd sit in a corner, mesmerized, while he’d fix things. But it wasn't just that, he'd turn it into a game, teaching me to count. I think I learned to read so young because he probably got tired of me just pointing at things and asking, 'What's that?' so he taught me the alphabet instead! 😂

As I got older, our adventures evolved. Our monthly bookshop dates were a legendary event. We'd go out early, just the two of us, have breakfast and wait for the bookstore to open. Since I was a kid, I'd religiously save my pocket money, thinking I was a total financial whiz. Hahaha. During my primary school, I’d save RM1 a week, hoping my RM4 a month would magically turn into a RM5 comic book. Of course, it never did, but my dad, my personal book-buying fairy godfather, would always wave his magic wallet and make up the difference.

Who didn't love Doraemon? If you weren't reading it, you were definitely missing out on all the fun. 😄

Then came my teenage years, and my reading tastes got a little more expensive. I started saving RM2 a week, which gave me a grand total of RM8 a month. At that time, I was obsessed with the Francine Pascal book series, and each book cost a whopping RM11-12. Once again, my dad would swoop in, like a superhero, and top up the rest so I could go home with my precious new novel.

Exactly how my teenage years collection is. (Source)

Looking back, it's pretty clear he’s one of the many reasons I’m who I am today. He didn't just buy me books, he instilled a love for reading that's stuck with me my entire life. So, here's to the best dad in the world and to many more book chapters to come. 💕

A "Square" Day to Remember

Hi,

Get ready for some number magic! Do you know that we have a special date this month? It's called a Perfect Square Day!

Look at the date: 4/9/25.

• The day is 2² =4.

• The month is 3² =9.

• The year is 5²=25.

Wait, there's more! The year itself, 2025, is also a perfect square: 45². This makes 2025 a truly special year, as it's the only perfect square year in most of our lifetimes. (The last one was in 1936, and the next isn't until 2116!)

And for the final piece of numerical perfection: Did you know that the number 2025 is also the sum of the cubes of the first nine counting numbers?

 2025 = 1³ + 2³ + 3³ + 4³ + 5³ + 6³ + 7³ + 8³ + 9³

It's a rare day when the date and the year align so perfectly, and even rarer when the year has such a beautiful mathematical property. How's that for a cosmic coincidence? ✨

Happy belated Perfect Square Day, everyone!