Grace and Grit

Hi,

Hello from Jasin, Melaka! I’m here celebrating CNY with my mother-in-law’s side of the family this year. As she is half-Chinese, I’m learning so much about everything from the food to the local traditions each time during CNY celebration.

During my confinement, when my own mother was still working, my mother-in-law was the one who took care of me. She cared for me and my new-borns for weeks, until I was strong enough to manage on my own. She prepared the most delicious, nourishing Chinese dishes for my recovery, treating me and my babies with the same love and tenderness as if we were her own.

One for the memories. Mak and two of her chinesey daughters-in-law. 😄

And let me tell you, she's also the woman who's never afraid to tell you your outfit looks like a fashion crime scene. Seriously, she's brutally honest. Like, 'Umm, those prints? On those prints? You look like a walking optical illusion.' She's a firm believer in women being confident by being presentable, which, in her world, means no prints on prints. Ever. 'You'll look messy,' she'll declare, with the conviction of a seasoned fashion judge. And we, her daughters and daughters-in-law, just nod and go, 'Okay, Mak.' Haha. 😂

But you know what? We love her for it. Because behind the 'fashion police' persona is a heart of gold. She's taught us to take pride in ourselves, to stand tall, and to maybe, just maybe, avoid wearing that floral-zebra combo we thought was 'edgy.' And for that, and for everything else, she'll always be someone I deeply admire.

She's shown me what it means to be strong, kind, and patient, and those are lessons I'll carry with me always.  Life is unpredictable, but one thing I'm certain of is my unwavering respect for her. She's taught me so much about life, and no matter what happens, she'll always be someone I look up to. 💕

Academic Outtakes

Hi,

I know, I’ve been a total ghost on the blog lately, but I haven't disappeared. I’ve just been buried! If you’re looking for me, you’ll find me living inside a fortress of exam scripts. It’s my new home for now, where the rent is free but the decor is a bit stressful.💆I’ve had to prioritize the big stuff first, and right now, my life is all about the final exam marking. 

I’ve been living among these piles for so many consecutive days that I’m starting to forget what a clean desk looks like. This entire weekend is dedicated to finalizing the EW and grades for my MAT223 students, all need to finish before I officially run away for the Chinese New Year break. 

In between the marking madness, I’ve also been squeezing in viva voce sessions for my PhD students. Life has felt extra complicated lately because I currently have three students scheduled for their vivas and another two who are about to submit their final drafts. It’s a lot of plates to spin at once, but I’m not complaining. These are the responsibilities I signed up for, and seeing them reach the finish line is a huge part of why I do what I do. 

After months of hard work, the result is finally in. Congratulations to Tariq Azzam for a successful viva-voce defense!

Still, I’ll admit that the academic life can feel pretty lonely sometimes. You have a mountain of tasks, but you don't actually communicate much with the outside world. You just stay in your nest, doing your thing, only popping out for meetings before scurrying back into the shadows to continue the never-ending to-do list. I’ve actually had to start forcing myself to go for 15-minute walks around the building just to prove to my body that sunlight still exists.

However, I had a major breakthrough today! I actually broke out of the office to join my colleagues for a quick lunch break. Getting a group of busy academics together is harder than solving a complex differential equation, but we finally made it happen. It was a massive all-in-one celebration. A farewell for Kak Shidah who is retiring soon, an early Chinese New Year luncheon, a warm welcome for the upcoming Ramadhan, and a 'we made it' party for the end of the semester. 💃

My multiracial colleagues and I all agreed on Arabic food for lunch today. Isn't that the perfect picture of harmony? 😊

Celebrating our soon-to-be retiree, Kak Shidah (the one in the middle). We’re going to miss her so much. 💐

Quick lunch, big occasion. It takes something special to get us all away from our desks at once.

Even though it was short, it was such a refreshing catch-up. For once, we didn't talk about work. Usually, seeing colleagues means discussing syllabus changes or meetings, but today we just talked freely as friends.

It was a great reminder that I need to pay a bit more attention to my own well-being. I need to get back into a routine that keeps my sanity intact, but for now, I’m feeling much more human. That’s my life in a nutshell lately. Looking forward to better days ahead! Happy weekend, everyone! 💕

Post-Winter Blues

Hi,

It’s the weekend again, and I’ve found my way back to my parents' house. The place suddenly feels so alive having the kids around. It’s chaotic, but seeing my dad so happy makes it all worth it. It’s hard to believe that exactly one month has passed since my winter wonderland trip to Northeast China. Time flew by so fast that I only just realized I still haven't finished unpacking my winter wear! I really need to get organized, store them properly in vacuum bags, and toss in some silica gel to keep the fabric in top condition.

I’m actually still wearing the same winter jacket from my days living in Australia, which is a minor miracle. First of all, thank God I haven't expanded sideways so much that I can’t fit into a seventeen-year-old coat anymore. Secondly, because I’ve taken such good care of it, it still looks brand new. Quality winter gear is an investment, so I’m determined to make sure the money I spent back then was worth it. If I’m lucky, I’ll still be zipping this same jacket up ten or twenty years from now!

Zhongyang Street after dark. They say some things and some people only get better with age. Looking at my winter gear, I’d have to agree.😉

Tomorrow is going to be a busy day of mom duties. We’re starting early with a paediatrician appointment at Pantai Hospital Sungai Petani, followed by a trip to the bookstore to restock the kids' reading materials. We’ll finally wrap things up with a grocery run, which is always an adventure with the little ones in tow.

It feels so good to finally sit down and find the time to write again. After a long week, it’s nice to just be still and reminisce about all the good things happening in my life. That’s it for tonight; I’m heading to bed to prepare for the marathon tomorrow. See you again next time. Goodnight! 💕 

Moments That Matter

Hi,

After nearly ten days of playing grown-up at my parents' place, I am finally going back to my own house. My younger sister came back to take over the shift, which was my golden ticket to run back to my own bed. Let me tell you, nothing compares the feeling of lying on your own mattress after a series of hard times. Your own nest isn't just a place to sleep. It’s the only place where you can truly exist in peace. It feels absolutely glorious.

The highlight of the week though, was a reunion with my sisters. We hit the streets just like the old days, back before we were all weighed down by the serious business of adulting. We spent the day hunting down new food spots, wandering through the mall until our legs gave out, and finishing it all off with a sugar rush from our favorite desserts. These moments are rare gems these days, and we made sure to squeeze every bit of fun out of it.

Trying to stay 'hip' in my 40s. Turns out, I'm more of an auntie than I thought. 😂

Our 'little' sister isn't so little anymore. Look at her treating us

The funniest part is that despite being the big sister, the one who is supposed to know everything, I have zero knowledge of what foods are trending, what’s aesthetic, or which shops are actually cool. My sisters treat me like a tech-support project, making sure I’m properly updated on the modern world so I don’t get too outdated. They even have a very generous payment system, if the bill is under RM50, they’ve got it. The second it hits RM51? Suddenly, it’s a big sister expense. Clever little geniuses, aren't they? 😂

But honestly, I don’t mind being the designated sponsor when the company is this good. We spent the whole time talking absolute nonsense, roasting each other's life choices, and laughing until our stomachs hurt. Those are the moments that keep the sisterly bond strong. It’s good to be back in my nest, but it’s even better to know that some things like my sisters’ ability to trick me into paying for dinner never change. 

I’m going to miss these moments so much, the times when I can just be myself with them. But for now, it’s back to reality and the beautiful chaos of being a mom of two. 😇

Our Road to Recovery

Hi,

Back at my parents' house for a week now, and the dedicated daughter life is in full swing! It’s been so worth it just to see the house come alive with happiness again. Even when my kids are testing my last bit of patience, my parents just look at them with pure adoration. Grandparents really do have a special kind of patience, don’t they?

The big news is that Dad has officially started intensive physiotherapy. Between his eight different hospital and clinic appointments, we’re determined to make the most of this golden period for his recovery. We did a lot of searching and finally found a center nearby that felt right.

Comfortable, convenient, and professional.

While many clinics offer similar treatments, the therapist here really won us over during the first consultation. Dad gave us the green light, and we had our first session yesterday!

The machines provided here

The dedicated area for mat exercises and electrotherapy

Naturally, I played chauffeur with the kids making the short car ride interesting as usual. Since Dad was the last patient of the day, we had the whole place to ourselves. Seeing him tackle the session with so much energy made my heart full. And the best part was the kids cheering him on the whole time! They were his little cheerleaders, shouting for him to keep going, which definitely gave him the extra boost he needed.

And of course, his little minions were right there, cheering for their Tokwan

This is just the beginning of Dad’s recovery. It’s a long path, but he doesn't have to walk it alone. Our whole family is behind him, and we are going to give him our best effort every single day. We can’t wait to see him standing tall and back on his feet.

Life in the In-Between

Hi,

I’ve missed writing so much! Lately, my plate hasn't just been full. It’s been overflowing. Between being there for my father during his recovery and managing my other responsibilities, life has felt like a bit of a blur. But I’m adjusting, finding my footing, and taking it one day at a time.

Speaking of work, it’s officially Exam Week at USM! Usually, I’m the early bird who has everything wrapped up by now, but this time, my schedule was pushed back by about two weeks. I’m still working on finalizing the coursework marks for my MAT223 students. I was honest with my class about the situation, and I honestly can’t thank them enough for their kindness. They’ve been so patient and understanding about the delay. I’ve promised them that those marks will be released a few days before the final exam so they can focus on their revision.

Final lecture of the semester with this amazing bunch.

Among my favourite girls. They always know exactly how to wow me with their hard work and creativity.

For now, I’ve packed up and moved into my parents' house for a 10-day stay. My main mission? To make sure the house feels warm, busy, and full of life. Between the marking, the caregiving, and the general hum of a family home, I know it’s going to be a busy and slightly chaotic stay, but it’s the best kind of chaos. It feels good to be where I’m needed most.

This season is teaching me that we don't always have to be perfect to be purposeful. Even when the plan changes and things get messy, showing up for the people we love is what truly counts. If you’re also feeling like you’re juggling the world right now, just remember, it’s okay to slow down, it’s okay to ask for patience, and you are doing much better than you think. We’ve got this!

The Great Ferry Nostalgia Trip

Hi,

Today, I did something I haven’t done in literal ages. I ditched the car, ignored the traffic, and hopped on the ferry to the island. Usually, my hospital runs will be from my workplace, but today? I just wasn't feeling like driving all the way to USM. I was suggested to try the ferry, and my brain went, "Why not? Let's turn this commute into an adventure!"

My first time testing out the brand-new ferry system.

Since it’s the weekend, I traveled from home, parked at Penang Central, and let the ferry do the work. Honestly? It was so smooth. No road rage, no traffic jams. Just me, a prime window seat, and a stunning view of the Penang Bridge and the city skyline to keep me company.

Ferry rides, skyline vibes, and a heavy dose of 90s nostalgia.

The best part? The nostalgia hit me like a massive wave! I started thinking back to 25 years ago (yes, back when I was a young and energetic teenager! 😂). My best friends and I used to literally sprint along the pathway to catch the ferry so we could head to Prangin Mall. Anyone who grew up in Penang in the late 90s or early 2000s knows exactly how important those ferry-to-mall missions were!

Seeing the old, unused jetty paths brought back so many memories.

Back then, Prangin Mall was the biggest, coolest mall around, and catching a movie there was the ultimate weekend highlight. If we missed the ferry, that was 30 minutes of standing around agonizing over whether we'd make it before the opening credits! 

Now that I’m officially in the 'fabulous 40s' club, my sprinting days are mostly reserved for chasing down students who haven't turned in their assessments... so sitting quietly and enjoying the sea breeze felt like a true luxury. It feels so good to break the routine and do something purely for the joy of it. I’m not sure when my next sea voyage will be, but I’m definitely doing this again.

Moral of the story: Sometimes, the best way to move forward is to take the slow boat! 🚢❤️

Progress, Not Perfection

Hi,

It has taken me some time to find my words again. I have so much I want to share, but lately, the starting line has felt a little far away. Life has been moving at a pace that sometimes feels more like a machine than a person. Every minute is accounted for, every task is timed, and sometimes, my body simply tells me it’s time to rest before I’m even ready to stop.

I hold onto the memories of our recent winter trip to Harbin like a hidden treasure. I want so badly to write down every laugh and every snowflake for my children to read one day. Coming home brought a shift in season, not just in the weather, but in my heart. From the joy of vacation to the quiet weight of new worries. I know those stories are still there, safe in the corners of my mind, waiting for the right moment to bloom.

There is a gentle light shining through, though. My father is coming home. He continues to show positive progress, and while we know the path ahead looks different now, we are walking it with him. We are meeting this new chapter with steady support, determination, and a whole lot of love.

Life can change in a heartbeat. One moment you are the child being cared for, and the next, you are the one making the big, brave decisions. Juggling the roles of a daughter, a mother, and a professional is a delicate dance, and I’ll admit, I often forget to put my own well-being on the list.

But even in the exhaustion, I am hopeful. I am learning that it’s okay to be 'in progress' just as much as my father is. I’m looking forward to the days when the smiles come a little more easily and the laughter feels a little lighter. We are all doing our best, and that is enough.

This was my last big smile before reality shifted. Even with a freezing red nose and rosy cheeks, my heart was full.

Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. Better, brighter days are on the horizon. 💕

Beyond the Scans

Hi,

I’m back with an update. We are officially on day three of this 'waiting game', and honestly, I’ve surprised myself with how much I can handle.

From never visiting Penang GH to feeling like a local resident. The 'waiting game' life is real.

For the record, my dad is currently fighting a brain bleed. It’s a very uncertain situation. To put it simply: his CT scans show the bleeding has reached a very sensitive area (the fourth ventricle), which usually means bad news. But here is the miracle, clinically, he is doing amazing. His brain is functioning well despite the pressure.

The neurosurgeon told us that Dad is a true fighter. He even said Dad must have done a lot of good for the universe because, in this condition, his survival is a miracle. If you know my dad, you know that’s true. He’s the man who never says a bad word about anyone, always happy, always cooking, and always making sure everyone is fed, no matter who they are.

Currently, he’s in the Neurosurgical Ward at Penang General Hospital under the care of specialist Dr. Jayaseelan, an amazing person. They are monitoring him closely and doing scans every morning. If things get worse, they will operate immediately. But for now, he is fighting through this with nothing but painkillers and his own strength. The doctor says his ability to self-heal is truly a miracle.

Please keep him in your prayers. Thank you. 🙏

2026’s Icy Adventure: Hello from Harbin!

Hi everyone,

Long time no type! First thing first… Happy 2026! How did you celebrate? I kicked off mine by pretending to live in an actual freezer. Yep, I’m in Harbin, China, where cold doesn’t even begin to cover it. Let me paint the picture. At noon, it’s -17°C. That’s cold enough to make your tears freeze. But by nighttime? We’re talking -28°C. That’s the kind of cold where your phone battery gives up and your eyelashes get frosty. Sounds wild, right?

But here’s the secret. If you dress like an onion, layer after layer after layer, you actually start having fun. I’m wrapped up so much I can barely move my arms, but hey, I’m warm(ish) and loving it! I can’t possibly tell you everything in one go, this trip deserves a few stories. But let me start with the basics.

Harbin is famous as the Ice City in winter. And it totally lives up to the name. Imagine walking down a street where instead of buildings, you see giant castles, animals, and sculptures… all made of ice. And not just small ones, I’m talking ice buildings taller than houses! Because it’s so insanely cold, these icy artworks don’t melt, even in sunlight. It’s like a sparkling, frozen wonderland everywhere you look. Mind-blowing stuff.

Talk about first impression. This was my welcome sight just moments before landing.

This scene holds a piece of forever in it.

But there’s more! As soon as the sun sets, Harbin becomes what I’d like to call, the Light City. Every building, tree, and street lights up in bright, beautiful colors. It’s not just one or two spots. The whole city agrees to glow together. Walking around feels like being inside a rainbow or a giant fairy tale. With all those lights shining all night, they must use crazy amounts of electricity. Maybe they have a secret power plant run by yetis. No surprise there!

Extra glow, courtesy of the moon

The roadside trees are all dressed up in twinkling lights.

 

My kind of walk.

So that’s my quick intro to life in the freezer. I’ve still got a few more days here to explore, take silly photos in my marshmallow outfit, and drink a lot of hot coffee. More stories (and maybe a tip on how to wear five layers of clothes) coming soon.

Bye for now, stay warm! ❄️✨

The Countdown is Almost Over

Hi,

The day is finally here! After months of dreaming and planning, we are officially jetting off to a winter wonderland in the northeast corner of the globe. This is my very first time visiting, and honestly? My only expectation is pure, uninhibited happiness.

I’m on a mission to soak up every second and make core memories with my little humans. They’re growing up so fast, and I want to cherish these adventures while they still want their mom right by their side before they officially turn into big kids.

So anyway, packing for a frozen world was a challenge, but somehow I won the Luggage Tetris championship! We have five bags in total. One giant, two medium, and two carry-ons. I’m actually shocked I managed to fit all those puffy jackets and three pairs of chunky snow boots without the zippers popping! The bags aren't even completely full yet, but I have a feeling they’ll be bursting on the way back once I stock up on more snow gear for the kids.

Winter gear organization. Compartments for everything means zero stress and easy access to all the layer.

The line-up! Those bags in the back are actually expandable.

I have a feeling that extra space is going to come in very handy for all the shopping later.

So, here is my final update for 2025. I’ll be spending New Year’s Eve literally in the clouds, flying over the Peninsula and the South China Sea. The next time you hear from me, it’ll be 2026, and I’ll be greeting you from a whole new country! 🇨🇳

Happy New Year, everyone! May your best moments of 2025 become the memories you cherish forever. I know I’m certainly tucking mine away in my heart.

See you next year! ❄️✈️

Winter Packing 101: Gadgets Every Travel Mom Needs

Hi,

I just set the laundry basket aside, which officially marks a hard-won victory in the war against a three-day mountain of clothes. Honestly, moms, how do you do it? I feel like if I don’t do a load every single day, the pile starts to grow a mind of its own and reaches for the ceiling. My biggest enemy isn't the washing, though; it’s the folding. If I don’t slot in those 15 minutes at night, the pile triples in size while I sleep!

There is nothing quite like the calm feeling of waking up to an empty laundry basket. It’s the little things, right?

Anyway, onto the main event, I am officially packing! ❄️✈️

I’ve finished the Priority Bags (one checked luggage and one cabin bag). These are the bags that contain our entire lives. I heard it’s going to be absolutely freezing the moment we step off the plane, so I’ve stuffed the cabin bag with thermals, down jackets, and gloves for me and the kids. We are basically going to transform into a family of marshmallows the second we touch down!

The ready-to-wear bag for that first blast of cold air.

Then there’s the Survival Bag. When you travel with kids, you aren't just a mom. You’re a walking pharmacy and a 24-hour cafeteria. Since their tiny tummies need a refill every two hours, I’ve packed enough instant fried rice and noodles to feed a small army. I’ve also stocked up on granola bars to 'power up' the kids whenever they start to get grumpy or tired. It’s amazing what a little snack can do for a kid's mood (and my sanity!). 🍫💪

I’m a huge fan of eating out, but I’ve learned that life is much easier if I fill up those little tummies before we even head out.

I’m also bringing my Travel Tech squad:

• The Shoe Dryer: Our literal hero! Since we’ll be trekking through thick snow, I refuse to let us walk around in soggy boots the next day.

• The Mini Steam Iron: Because my voile scarves deserve to look as good as the scenery.

• Travel Hangers: Because hotel closets never seem to understand that winter layers require a lot of hanging space!

• The Mini Pump & Vacuum Bags: My absolute lifesavers! Without these, those puffy winter jackets would take up the entire suitcase. I’m vacuum-sealing everything like a pro to save space for, well... more snacks.

• The Mini Pot: My secret weapon for those midnight noodle cravings.

So here are the gadgets every travel mom needs to survive a winter getaway.

I still have two more bags to prepare, but those are on low priority level. If I forget my own socks, I can buy them there. But if I forget the kids' favorite snacks? Total catastrophe.

Okay, enough sharing for tonight. I need to get some sleep before the next round of 'Mom vs. The World' begins tomorrow. See you again next time! Bye! 💕

The Cold Truth About Exam Integrity

Hi,

I just wrapped up one of my biggest tasks of the semester, handling the second test for MAT223. And let me tell you, compared to the chaos of Test 1, this was a smooth, drama-free victory!

To understand why I was so prepared today, you have to know what happened last time. Test 1 was... a choice. We had everything from sneaky phone users to a student who literally tried to swap himself with a body double! Unfortunately for him, my face-recognition skills are better than he thought. He was caught off guard, and let's just say, the replacement didn't work out. Too bad.

The biggest issue? The lecture hall. In a theater-style setting, it’s far too easy for students to hide phones in their jackets. With only two helpers, it was like playing a game with mobile devices. I heard the complaints loud and clear, and I promised myself, I will do better this time.

For today’s test, I came armed with a plan. If you want to beat the cheats, you have to change the environment.

1. New Venue, New Rules: I booked the Dewan Utama Peperiksaan. It’s huge, fits all 270 students at once, and the table layout is designed for actual exams, not just naps and lectures. No more hiding behind the person in front of you!

2. The "No Jacket" Policy: Knowing how cold the hall gets, I told them: Thick clothes? Yes. Jackets? Absolutely not. A few tried to negotiate, but sorry kids, mama didn’t raise a quitter, and she didn’t raise an easy target either. You can survive the cold for one hour for the sake of integrity. 

3. The Gadget Sweep: Students these days have more tech than a NASA control room. Smartwatches, tablets, dual phones, you name it. I ordered everything under the desks. Two suspicious characters tried to hide their smartwatches under their sleeves. Nice try! Those watches spent the rest of the hour on my desk.

I couldn't have pulled this off alone. On top of my two fantastic tutors, two additional amazing student volunteers sacrificed their early morning sleep to help me patrol the aisles. It’s not a glamorous job, but they did it with a smile. I am so grateful for their help, they were my extra sets of eyes! Including myself and the helpers, the five of us spent the entire hour patrolling the aisles like a high-security detail.

Huge thanks to Aleya and Hariz. They are my absolute favorites. Always ready to help and always there when it counts. 💕

I know I might seem like the "villain" to some, but it’s getting tougher to manage student behavior lately. My goal isn't to be mean, it’s to be fair.

Honesty is a trait that will take you much further in life than a smuggled phone ever will. I want my students to enter their final exams and their future careers knowing that success is earned through preparation, not shortcuts.

Now that the dust has settled, do I get a relaxing weekend? Haha. I wish!

I have three suitcases to pack for an upcoming trip. So, instead of grading papers in my pajamas, I’ll be folding clothes and playing Tetris with my luggage. Wish me luck. I think I’m going to need it more than the students did today! ✈️

Time to go from Exam Mode to Weekend Mode. Have a fantastic one, everyone! Bye! 😊

The Power of Just Listening

Hi,

Yesterday, I was a complete mess. I’m talking about the kind of emotional state where you’d probably apologize to a chair if you accidentally bumped into it. Usually, I’m the Cool Teacher. Calm, composed, and very professional. But the moment I’m alone? I turn into a puddle. I was getting teary-eyed over everything. A sad song? Sniffle. A slightly wilted leaf? Heartbroken.

Then, yesterday, I walked toward my office and saw a flower tucked into my door. My first thought wasn't "Oh, how sweet!" It was more like, "Who found me?!"🤔

The Mystery Flower at the Forbidden Door

See, I have a very specific rule. I do not meet students simply in my office. I’ll meet you at any public places like a cafe or a random bench around the school or under even a tree, but not my office. I have my personal reasons (mostly involving my secret stash of snacks 😋 and my desire to avoid unannounced quick questions that last two hours).

So, seeing a flower there was like seeing a glitch in the Matrix. I picked it up and found a small note. It was from two students who had just finished their PhDs. They were officially graduating and leaving Malaysia to start their real adult lives elsewhere.

Now, tell me how could I not tear up?

Now, you might be thinking, "You’re an academic. Students graduate all the time. Why the waterworks?" And honestly? Fair point. Usually, I just shake their hands, give them a good luck pat on the back, and wonder if they’ll ever return. But these two were different. They weren't even my students. And to add in more fun, they weren't even from my faculty!

We started as total strangers. They were struggling, drowning in the deep, dark ocean of PhD research, and I just happened to be the one with a metaphorical life jacket. I treated them like my own.

Watching them grow was like watching a tiny, stressed-out bud turn into a confident, blooming flower. To be honest, half the time they talked about their research, I had no idea what they were saying. (Physics? Biology? Chemistry? Who knows!)

But I didn't need to understand the science. I just watched their eyes light up whenever they made progress. It turns out, people don't always need you to be a genius or a miracle worker. Sometimes, they just need someone to actually listen to their rants, someone who won't roll their eyes when things go wrong and someone to just a simple "Hey, you've got this."

On his very last day at USM, I finally welcomed a student into my office.

It’s the most basic way to respect another human being, yet it’s the thing that hits the hardest. So, I stood there holding that flower, looking at these two human beings who were once lost strangers and are now ready to take on the world. I thought about the years of struggle, the breakthrough meetings, and the fact that they remembered me on their way out the door.

Now, you tell me again, how could I not tear up? My Cool Teacher reputation is officially in ruins, but my heart is full. 💕

Small Wins, Big Heart

Hi,

There is nothing more satisfying than reaching the end of the day and ticking off those big wins on my list. Today, my heart is extra full.

We started the day celebrating Auni’s amazing performance in her KAFA exams. Alhamdulillah! She did it again! 🎉

Now, here’s the funny part: Auni is basically a part-time student. At the start of every year, I have to politely tell her teachers that she’s going to miss a lot of classes. Why? Because this mom has a daily date with the monster traffic on the bridge, and I just can't wait until 5:30 PM every day! 🚗💨

The Promise: ✋ I promised her teachers that if she leaves early, I’ll be her home teacher to help her catch up.

The Reality: Most subjects were a breeze. I can still handle reading Jawi, and we actually had fun memorizing together. But then... we met Bahasa Arab. Oh boy. 🤦‍♀️ This mom has zero third language skills! While Auni was learning, I was basically a professional at using Google Translate. Let’s just say I am destined to struggle with languages forever, but at least we laughed through the confusion! 🤣

The Lesson: I truly believe you always need a teacher to learn properly, but I didn't want that to be an excuse for her to give up. I wanted Auni to know that trying your best is the most important step. Even with missed classes and a struggling mom-teacher 😅, she stayed focused and nailed it. I’m so proud of her for not drifting away and for giving it her all.

Good job, Auni! You’re the real star! 🌟 You’ve shown me that with a bit of hard work and a lot of heart, anything is possible. Thank you for making all those early pickups and bridge-traffic races totally worth it. You are my greatest achievement!💕

My Kampung Victory!

Hi, 

Hey everyone! Guess where I am? I’ve hit the road and landed in Jasin, Melaka, visiting the in-laws! Even though I haven't been back in ages, it instantly feels like my cozy, easy-going second home.

The best part? The little ones are having an absolute blast! They are basically tiny, fearless explorers, running wild, chasing all the kampung critters, and burning off all their energy. They don't get this kind of freedom very often, so I'm just sitting back and enjoying the chaos. Let them run! (And maybe apologize to the neighbour's cat later.) 😉

Now, for my major victory of the day! Since I had a little free time on my hands (shocking, I know), I decided to tackle the dreaded MMPA course. You know, that boring, compulsory training that all government folks have to finish?

The Mandatory Certificate that Caused Mass Chaos. 😂

I heard all the noise and panic the last few days about people struggling to log in (digital traffic jams are the worst!). But I stayed out of the rush. Honestly, I was too tired. I registered, then immediately put it on the 'I'll Do It Later' list for seven whole days.

This morning, though? After a fantastic night's sleep (eight glorious hours!), I logged in, and it was the smoothest mission ever! No crashes, no lag, just pure, uninterrupted course completion. I finished the entire thing before I even had my morning coffee! Talk about a win! 🎉

Finishing that course really made me think about our students and their online learning, like those Microcredential and MOOC classes. It’s tough! Now I totally get their pain and frustration. Since almost all the lecturers have now had to complete this MMPA course, I really hope we take away a lesson: Compulsory learning is hard!

I realized that I absolutely love reading and learning new things... unless I am forced to do it. When it’s mandatory, the fun drains right out. And that, I bet, is exactly how our students feel about subjects they are forced to take. It was a great moment of understanding!

So, between the family fun and my online course triumph, I also managed to get a lot of work done, including finishing all the marking for Test 1. Hooray! The results... well, they're a little frustrating, to be honest! It shows we have a serious challenge ahead. I need to figure out a new plan right away so my students can rock Test 2 and the Final Exam!

That’s my kampung update! I’m so happy I managed to tick off so many things on my list. Two more days of chill time before I head back to the normal routine.

Talk soon! Bye! 👋

The Final Sprint

Hi,

Hello, lovelies! How's everyone holding up? As for me, I'm currently operating at peak commitment capacity. Think of a finely tuned academic machine... that occasionally stuck because it forgot to refill its coffee. 😅

We're in the final stretch of the semester, and my calendar is looking like a battle plan: 3 chapters to go, 1 test, 1 assignment, and the final project submission. Not forgetting the 'elephant in the room', a stack of Test 1 and Assignment 1 papers that are patiently (or impatiently?) waiting for me to finish marking. Productivity is a journey, right? 😵Honestly, if anyone finds my sanity lying around, please return it. I need it for the next few weeks!

To make things extra spicy, I'm also donning the hat of Internal Examiner for several upcoming viva-voce sessions. While this means I have to read reports that could potentially rival the length of a small novel, it’s a role I genuinely enjoy.

It keeps me grounded. I get to read about amazing projects, and sometimes, they zoom light-years past my own expertise. That's how I know I'm still growing by being the student again while being the examiner! It’s an invaluable way to keep my knowledge base fresh and my thoughts agile.

Anyway, I'm a massive fan of the speedy viva (under two hours is a dream!). It's not a race, but when a candidate, their project, and the panel are all efficiently aligned, it feels like a harmonious academic ballet. No lengthy, unnecessary defenses. Just straight-to-the-point discussion.

Record-breaking. Among the shortest vivas I’ve ever experienced.

And another one of the quickest sessions I’ve ever been part of.

Efficient and effective. I’m a fan!

I have two more reports to prep for and two viva sessions for my own students coming soon. I'm crossing my fingers for quick and decisive sessions for them all!

This is the life of an academic. A constant juggling act of guiding, learning, and self-improvement. If you’re pushing through a tough deadline, a heavy workload, or a challenging personal goal, remember that this intensity builds resilience. Take a deep breath. Focus on the next small step, and celebrate every little win. We're all pushing to the finish line. Keep your head down, remember why you started, and just keep moving forward. You've got this!

I've started chipping away at my personal passion projects too, so here's to a smooth wrap-up for everyone. 💕

Unspeakable Calm of Midnight

Hey,

It's the peaceful midnight hour of the weekend, and I cherish these quiet Saturday nights. This is my chance to do the things I miss during the busy work week.

My neighbourhood is perfectly silent now. Everyone seems to be deep in slumberland already. Meanwhile, I'm here, enjoying the quiet by stargazing through my glass wall.💫

The moon tonight is truly stunning. It looks so full and bright, radiating a soft glow that makes the entire night feel beautiful, even when it hides behind a few clouds. I tried to capture it with my seasoned mobile camera, but the photo simply didn't do it justice.

It shines so brightly, I believe it's sending a message of promise to the world tonight.

Anyway, as I was relaxing, I heard a song on the tv called "P. Ramlee & Saloma". Now, the melody is completely stuck in my head! It's so hard to believe a simple song can fit this tranquil moment so perfectly. I think I'll listen to it again while watching the moon sets away from my sight.

And you know what? Finding this quiet connection in the night with the music and the stars is the perfect reset button for my soul. It's moments like these that make the hustle of the past week feel utterly distant and irrelevant. They remind me that true richness isn't found in relentless activity, but in stillness. A stillness that clarifies the spirit and prepares you to greet the coming week not with dread, but with quiet, renewed purpose.

And with that, my thoughts come to rest for tonight. I cherished this chance to write freely again. It truly felt restorative. Now, to embrace the lingering quiet a little longer before I surrender to sleep. Goodnight. 💕

Conquering the -25°C Winter with Kids

Hi,

Oh my goodness, can you believe it? It’s the first weekend of December, and while everyone else is humming holiday tunes, I’m in full-blown panic-prep mode for our big winter trip at the end of the month! This year, we’re going somewhere seriously chilly. We’re talking high temperatures of -13°C during the day and a terrifying -25°C at night! Brrrr! ☃

This isn't my usual trip. My main focus right now is making sure my two little adventurers are equipped with proper heat wear and enough medicine to stock a small pharmacy.

You know what’s the biggest relief? My kids are easier to handle now. Remember the long-haul flight to Melbourne last year? And the ten-hour layover at that foreign airport? They nailed it! They know how to manage their feelings when travel gets tedious. They’ll bring their trusty toys and books to keep themselves busy, and that’s the magic formula. Happy, calm kids equal a happy, calm mom! That was the most important lesson I wanted them to learn, honestly. Staying calm while traveling. 

Against all odds, the 8-hour flight to Melbourne with the kids was remarkably easy.

One of the many compelling reasons why Australia remains my favourite place to live?

The stunning natural palette everywhere you look. Deep green landscapes under an impossibly bright blue sky. Ahh, so stunning. 💕

I’ve never been one for travel agents. My style is strictly DIY. All are self-planned, and somehow, we happily survive every single time! It’s exhausting, but so rewarding.

The biggest challenge is always the language barrier. Trying to figure out what people are saying and adjusting to their way of communicating. That always takes the most mental energy. Everything else? Totally manageable. Especially when you're bringing little humans, the key is just proper preparation!

Speaking of preparation, I just have to tell you about my latest purchase! Universal Traveller is having their "Travel Madness" sale right now! Seriously, if you need a new suitcase, run, don't walk! They don't do this often, but when they do, it's a fantastic bargain.

Seriously, if you need any travel gear, you have to go check out the Universal Traveller website right now! The Travel Madness Sale is legit!

Why did I need a new one? Well, to add to my collection, of course! Haha, just kidding (mostly!).

The real reason? I absolutely needed an extra 24-inch bag. Why? Because winter gear for sub-zero temperatures is a nightmare! Boots, big puffy down jackets, thermals, they are all so fluffy and space-consuming! Trying to fit a family's worth of giant, marshmallow-like clothing into our old bags was just impossible. So, the new 24-inch bag is purely for Operation: Puffy Gear Transport! It's totally a challenge!

Anyway, that’s my current mental landscape. I need to channel my brain away from thermals and into school uniform now. It’s time for my son's school preparation. Talk soon! Bye!

Witnessing Our Graduates Shine

Hi,

What a day! We finally got to celebrate the incredible graduates from the School of Mathematical Sciences at the USM 63rd Convocation Ceremony!

And guess what? We got the very last slot. Honestly, I think the universe was doing me a favor. First, it's not my lecture day, which is a little win for any lecturer. Second, being the grand finale just makes it feel like the whole week was building up to celebrating our amazing graduates, the true stars of the show!

And here they are! The incredible Class of 2025 from the School of Mathematical Sciences!

Seriously, I have a thing for convocation. I don't know if it's the fancy robes or the general feeling of "I survived a thousand exams," but I make it a point to be there every year. It tells me that all those sleepless nights wrestling with theorems and complex equations were absolutely worth it! (Even the ones that made you question all your life choices.) 😉

With the Dean and a colleague, celebrating a successful day for the students.

Lining up and ready to go! The Maths team joins the procession to kick off the ceremony!

My favourite girls.

So, after a truly momentous ceremony, we all rushed out for the main event: The Photo Session! Capes, smiles, proud parents, and slightly confused staff trying to fit into the frame. It’s chaos, but it’s the best kind of chaos.

We gave them their degrees, now we just need them to remember to visit! 😉

To all our graduates: Go out there and use those brilliant brains! Whether you're balancing books, coding the next big app, or just calculating the perfect amount of pizza for a party, remember that you can solve anything.

That's a wrap on this year's glorious celebration! See you at the next one in 2026!

November's Final Day

Hi,

It's hard to believe we've reached the final day of November, which sadly means my favourite month of the year is drawing to a close. Overall, this month was kind to me, though I certainly had my fair share of bumps and challenges. While everything might have looked perfectly calm and manageable from the outside, that’s largely because I pride myself on handling chaos smoothly. In reality, I was often putting up a significant fight. It felt like wrestling a crocodile, and the biggest opponent was usually myself! 😂 

My past weekend was particularly eventful and fulfilling. On Saturday, I made a quick, spontaneous drive to Perlis to visit my cousin, whose family had been severely affected by the major flood that hit the area last week. I'm so happy I decided to go, because often, those who need help the most are the very people who will never ask for it, worried that they might burden others with their problems. 

As a family member and just a caring human being, I felt strongly that even if my efforts were small, they could truly help lighten their load. At the very least, just showing up and offering my support and presence would bring some happiness and comfort to them. I spent the entire day there assisting with the clean-up, and when I was finally ready to leave, seeing their house fully cleaned out and ready to be a proper home again brought me a deep and powerful feeling of satisfaction. 

Then, Sunday was a completely different kind of celebration, dedicated entirely to Adam. It was his kindergarten graduation, marking the official end of his preschool years and his preparation for the 'big kid life' ahead. In just a few short weeks, my youngest will be walking through the doors of primary school, and my greatest hope is that he embraces this next exciting chapter and gains every good thing it has to offer him.

He totally rocked the speech thanks to his bubbly personality.

So, that’s a quick summary of my past few days and the end of this month. Goodbye, November. Thank you for all the precious memories, the lessons learned, and the beautiful moments you brought. 💕