Grueling Life Of An Architecture Student

It’s been over a week since Sherilyn last slept on her bed. My second-year architecture student daughter has been swamped with back-to-back assignments, and her determination is turning our couch into her bed and her university workshop into her second home. The rigorous demands of her course have left her zombified—sacrificing sleep, meals, and even showers. The workload is relentless, and the toll it’s taking on her is all too evident.

The last time I saw her was yesterday afternoon when she darted home for a quick bite and shower before heading back to university. Tonight, she returned at 9 pm, utterly exhausted.

First, it was an assignment requiring the complicated construction of bamboo structures, which consumed her days and nights. Now, she’s diving headfirst into yet another project, leaving little time for basic necessities like proper meals, showers, and restful sleep.

The most jarring moment came today. Sherilyn returned home around 9 p.m., visibly drained, touchy, and wasn’t in the mood to talk much. As she sat down to eat her dinner and then a Mon Chinese beef roti her grandmother had just bought, she couldn’t even stay awake long enough to finish the roti.  Halfway through chewing, she dozed off, the roti almost slipping from her grasp. I quickly woke her up and asked her to keep the roti and to shower. But her body betrayed her willpower and she continued dozing at the table and then moved to the couch to continue sleeping.  The sight of her falling asleep while chewing brought a bittersweet wave of déjà vu.

When Sherilyn was around five to six, for more than a year, she had a peculiar habit of sitting at the dining table for hours, struggling to finish her dinner. Perhaps it was her way of seeking my attention. Ever since Cass was born, I diverted my attention to the baby as Cass had some major health issues that needed special care. In Sherilyn’s innocent mind, the baby stole her thunder.   Many evenings, she’d fall asleep at the dining table, waking intermittently between 7 pm and 11 pm to continue chewing the food in her mouth. Back then, I was preoccupied with Cass, who was a toddler dealing with urinary tract issues.  Sherilyn often clashed with Dyah, our live-in helper, making dinnertime an ongoing struggle. Out of exhaustion and lack of time, I let her be. I was holding two jobs back then – a freelance writing job and selling clothes online.  

Now, years later, history seems to repeat itself—but for vastly different reasons. Her chronic sleep deprivation stems not from defiance but from passion and a grueling academic workload. Watching her push herself so hard hurts my heart. I can’t help but question if architecture is truly what she wants, knowing the toll it’s taking on her body and mind. Yet, her answer remains unwavering—a resounding yes.

As a parent, I can only pray for her well-being. I ask God to guide her, grant her physical and mental strength, and protect her health despite these trying times. My fierce, resilient Sherilyn is determined to chase her dreams, and I’ll be here, supporting her every step of the way—even if that means picking up her food and phone from her grasp before she dozes off at the table again.

When There Was No Internet and Social Media

Growing up in the 1970s and 1980s, life had a different rhythm—one that many today may find hard to imagine. In a world without internet, smartphones, or social media, entertainment meant simpler things that brought families together. TV time was the highlight of our evenings, and it wasn’t just about watching our favorite programs; it was a treasured family ritual.

My brothers and I would eagerly wrap up dinner, so we could all settle into the living room in our cozy little house in Moonlight Park, Ipoh. It was our first home, a small single-story house, where the six of us shared countless memories. That house holds some of the best moments of my childhood, where every evening was marked by a comforting routine, all of us gathered around a modest black-and-white TV.  My papa sat on his lazy chair and I sat on the floor next to him, with eyes glued to the TV.

Growing up in Moonlight Park brought other memories just as precious. The house may have been small, but it was home to a world of joy for me and my best friend, Michael Yong, who lived next door. Michael who is the same age as me was my closest playmate , and our parents affectionately called his parents “chu lai,” meaning friends with the same surname in Hakka. We spent endless hours playing outdoors, exploring, and making memories that remain some of the best of my life.  When I was little, I even told myself that when I grew up, I would marry Michael 😂.  I haven't seen Michael for decades and wonder how he and his older brother, Vincent are doing now. I would love to meet up with them one day.

Our lineup of shows was one of pure nostalgia: Mind Your Language, The Six Million Dollar Man, MacGyver, Empat Sekawan, and Eight Is Enough. I can still vividly recall Mr. Brown, the English teacher in Mind Your Language, and how much we all laughed. Even as kids, we learned so much from those shows—they sparked our imagination and made us laugh, giving us something to look forward to each day.

Then, in 1981, everything changed. My papa brought home a video player, and it was a moment of pure excitement for us kids. I was only eight years old, and watching our first videotape—a Chuck Norris action movie—was nothing short of thrilling. Soon after, papa started renting more videotapes. Our early favorites included Jackie Chan movies and, eventually, TVB dramas. Every day, we’d eagerly wait for papa to come home with the next tape, ready for another night of excitement and family bonding.

By the way, Chuck Norris is still alive and he's 84 years old. Bless that man. I loved watching his movies.

The absence of digital devices meant we were fully present. Life in the 80s felt simple but wonderfully rich. There was a sense of happiness and contentment in the small things, and our evenings together filled us with a joy that only grew with time.

Looking back, I’d do anything to go back to those simpler times, to No. 11 Hala Taurus, Moonlight Park, to our cozy living room, and to those cherished family moments that formed the heart of my childhood. I still remember this address even though we moved out of this house 40 years ago!

When a Delivery Mix-Up Gave Me a Lesson in Double-Checking Addresses

Yesterday morning, I wasn’t quite feeling myself. After a restless night’s sleep and a bout of heart palpitations due to some lingering worries and unresolved issues, I had an intense craving for Vietnamese food from Pho Viet. I quickly placed an order through Shopee Food for our favorite dishes, looking forward to a comforting meal to ease my stress. Little did I know, however, that I was in for a small (luckily not that expensive) lesson in double-checking details.

About 30 minutes later, I received a call from the Shopee Food delivery rider. He asked for my company name and which floor I was on, which threw me off initially. That’s when it hit me—I’d left my delivery address as “Optimax in Sri Petaling,” the eye clinic where I had an appointment about a month ago. On that day, I had ordered food to be delivered home while I was still at the eye center, and I’d forgotten to change it back to my actual address after that visit.

The rider kindly offered to bring the food to my correct address for an extra RM10, but, frustratingly, our call got disconnected, and he never returned my calls or messages. I guess he thought it was not worth sending the food to me after all. Fine. 

After some back-and-forth, I called Optimax and explained my situation, and they confirmed that the food was still at the clinic’s reception. I decided to book a Grab Express bike to pick up the food from Optimax and have it delivered to me instead.

In total, I paid RM4.90 for the initial Shopee Food delivery. I had a RM11 voucher from Shopee Food. But I had to spend RM7 for the Grab Express service. So, I still had to pay RM1 out of pocket. Ok la, not that expensive but I felt it was a sheer oversight and carelessness on my side. I thought that I could save RM11 with the food voucher but I ended up having to pay instead.

I was upset with myself for the mistake, but I know now that I won’t be making it again. From now on, I’ll triple-check my delivery address before confirming any online order.

This small hiccup taught me the importance of double-checking every detail—especially on days when I’m feeling a little off. Mistakes are just part of life’s learning curve, and at least this one came with my favorite noodle and lemongrass chicken salad and banh mi at the end!

Color Trends For Prom Dresses in 2025

Choosing the color of your prom dress is one of the most exciting decisions for you and your besties.  Prom night is the most awaited party since you started high school. Even though there’s another half a year to the big day, you can start looking for your dream prom dress now.

Prom 2025 is all about unique dress colors.  There are endless choices, from romantic pastels like blush pink, baby blue, mint, and lilac to jewel tones like emerald, red, purple, and emerald. And there are the futuristic metallic hues too. If you’re still uncertain which color to choose for your dress, head over to Modsele to shop for the perfect prom dress. This online store has an amazing selection of prom dresses in many beautiful colors and designs. 

Prom dresses in 2025 are set to make a vibrant statement. Whether you’re drawn to the eye-catching color of neon pink, or dream of a futuristic shimmering metallic fabric with an iridescent finish, Modsele has got you covered.  Let’s look at some of the most popular and trending prom dress colors and styles.

This one-shoulder full-length prom dress with a cut-out in the mid-section and a high-slit will surely make heads turn.  It’s available in stunning red, royal blue, black and pink.  This gorgeous fully-lined dress, with a built-in bra, is perfect for prom, homecoming, bridesmaid, and other formal events.

Looking for a prom dress that’s ethereal and fairy-like?  This lavender tulle V-neck A-line long dress with a flowy skirt hits all the right notes.  With its delicate appliques, 3D floral lace, and lace-up back, this floor-length dress sure looks dreamy. The long, flowy tulle skirt creates an angelic, floating effect, making you look like a goddess on your special night.

 

This lovely yellow off-shoulder ruffled tiered prom dress will make you look like Barbie! The intricate 3D floral lace detailing on the off-shoulder neckline adds a touch of elegance, while the high waist and ruffled tiered skirt create a flattering silhouette. The skirt slit makes moving about easy and you can dance your night away in this Barbie-like gown!

 

This gold metallic spaghetti strap dress with a pleated floor-length skirt is true elegance that will transform you into an ancient Greek goddess! The unique design with V-neck straps, a keyhole on the chest part, and a cinching waist is flattering. The low back with zipper makes putting on and off easy. The dress is fully lined and comes fitted with a bra. This elegant dress is also available in other attractive colors, such as shimmering champagne, violet, fuchsia, and green.

 

As you prepare for prom in 2025, choosing the perfect prom dress doesn't have to be overwhelming. Start browsing for prom dress designs and colors and enjoy the process. Before you even realize it, you’ll be enjoying an epic prom night in your gorgeous prom dress and dancing the night away!

Mismatched Socks: The Latest Fun Fashion Trend!

Mismatched socks have become a quirky new trend, and thanks to Alycia’s recent shopping spree in Korea, they’ve made their way into our household too! Known for her love of unique styles, Alycia brought home a bunch of trendy finds, including an adorable pair of mismatched socks.

Socks are a bit of an obsession in our family. With all of us being sock lovers, especially when it comes to pairing them with our everyday sneakers or workout shoes, we go through quite a variety. Whether it’s for outings or exercising, socks are a daily must. So, when I pulled Alycia's latest mismatched pair out of the washing machine, my first instinct was to go hunting for their "missing" partners. It didn’t take long for me to realize—these socks were intentionally mismatched. It was pretty cute with prints of cows grazing grass in rolling hills on one side and cow fur print on the other.

The mismatched socks trend brings back that youthful spirit and carefree style. For younger folks, it’s a way to add a bit of fun to their wardrobe, but I think it’s something not anyone can pull off. Imagine an almost 52-year-old mom wearing mismatched socks? Still looking cute? Perhaps what I can try rocking is socks of different colors but with the same design 😜

Who Pays The Bridesmaids’ Dresses And Accessories?

 Who should pay for the bridesmaids’ dresses?

According to traditional wedding etiquette in some countries, the bridesmaids pay for their dresses, shoes, accessories, and makeup. However, wedding traditions have evolved over the years, and many couples partially or fully pay for the cost of each member of the bridal party's clothes. Generally speaking, there are no hard and fast rules stating that the bride should pay for each bridesmaid dress; it’s widely accepted that she will as a gesture of appreciation.

 

The bride usually pays the bill if she envisions all her bridesmaids wearing a certain color, brand, or design. If she wants her girls to look like bridesmaids in color-coordinated dresses for impeccable wedding photos – and therefore wear a dress they probably will not wear again, it’s only fair that the bride foots the bill.  It’s becoming more common for brides to cover the cost of the bridesmaid dresses and accessories as a gesture of appreciation. Ultimately, the decision is dependent on the bride’s budget and her relationship with the bridesmaids.

 

If you’re not paying for the bridesmaids’ dresses

Even if the bride doesn’t have the budget to sponsor the bridesmaids’ dresses, she can still tell her girlfriends her preference for the dress style and colors. There should be open communication with all the members of the bridal party.

It would be a good idea to ask the bridesmaids to stick to a certain color or hue, not a specific dress so that they can wear the dress again. Modsele has a wide collection of affordable elegant bridesmaid dresses that you and your bridesmaids will love.

 

What About The Bridesmaids’ Shoes?

Some brides are relaxed about their bridesmaids' shoes and will suggest something like white or nude strappy heels since it’s likely that some bridesmaids already have such shoes in their wardrobe.  If the bride is paying for the dresses, it’s reasonable for the bridesmaids to pay for their shoes. However, if you are particular about the shoes that your bridesmaids wear and want them to wear a specific shoe, then yes, the bride should pay for it.  Of course, if the bride and groom are wealthy or have a big budget to splurge, they can foot the bill for the shoes too! Even if your bridesmaids are very close to you, they will have a limit on their budget and you have to honor this.

 

Who pays the bridesmaids’ hairdo and makeup?

Again, this comes back to the bride’s budget and what everyone is comfortable with. Some brides and their bridesmaids share the cost while others DIY. If the bride has a big budget, the bride squad can have their hair and makeup done by professionals.

 

In Conclusion

Open communication is important and at the outset, the bride must convey clear expectations regarding what she will pay and what the bridesmaids will pay. This is to prevent misunderstandings and ensure everyone is on the same page.

Remember that your wedding is just one day but your friendship with your friends is forever and so precious, so handle those money talks with tact, sensitivity, love, and understanding.

Alycia's Korea Adventure

Alycia has just returned from a memorable 7-day trip to Seoul, South Korea, with her friend and colleague, L. This trip was special for Alycia and L, as L will be migrating overseas next month. As a likely farewell journey, the two made the most of every moment, exploring the beauty of South Korea together and capturing a collection of stunning memories.

L, who is Alycia’s age, took charge of the trip planning and did a fantastic job arranging a perfect itinerary. From the photos Alycia shared, I can see that the trip was a wonderful mix of sightseeing, hanbok photography, delicious food, and meaningful time together. They enjoyed authentic Korean BBQ, kimchi, and hearty dumplings. Each meal looked and tasted amazing,

Their adventure included a trip to the breathtaking Nami Island, famous for its stunning fall foliage. They took a shuttle bus and ferry to reach this serene haven, where the golden and crimson leaves of fall seemed like a scene from a painting.

Of course, Alycia couldn’t resist a little retail therapy. As expected, she brought back more denim—pants, jackets, you name it! Her wardrobe is already bursting at the seams (she’s a true clothes-shopping enthusiast!), and now there’s even more denim to make room for. I might need a crowbar to close her wardrobe doors at this rate!

And what was her souvenir for me? Three pail-loads of dirty laundry, mostly thick denim pants, denim jackets, and fall wear. It’s a “gift” that only a mother could appreciate! I told her that the next time she travels overseas, she has to settle all her dirty laundry herself, and not stress me up with them! 😑

Souvenirs from Korea for me! 😓 I told her that for her next trip - send all her dirty clothes to the laundry shop and pay for it herself!

How to Choose Bridesmaid Dresses That Flatter Different Body Types

Congratulations on being proposed! Now that the wedding date is set, there’s a long checklist of things to do before the wedding. You have to shop for the wedding gown of your dreams and bridesmaid dresses for your wedding party. Finding dresses that fit different body types and preferences can be challenging.  Choosing the right bridesmaid dresses is important so everyone feels comfortable, confident, and happy on your special day.

Here are a few tips for choosing bridesmaid dresses that flatter your besties:

1. Keep Your Dress Style in Mind

First and foremost, your bridesmaid dresses should be chosen with your wedding dress style in mind. If your wedding dress is whimsical, consider choosing bridesmaid dresses with flowy chiffon or tulle fabrics with ruffled sleeves. If your wedding dress is trendy and metallic accented, the dresses for your squad should be in the same hues.

2.  Different Styles For Different Frames

A-line or ball gown dresses are usually ever-reliable for flattering almost all types of body frames, but there are many other styles to choose from as well. If your bridesmaid is petite, fitted dresses with sweetheart necklines can create a flattering shape and subtle cleavage for her body type. 

For full-figured bridesmaids who do not want to draw attention to their bust, belly, hips, and legs, an empire waistline full-length dress with thick straps can help elongate the frame while being loose and flair from the waist down.

3.  Choose The Right Color

There are many options for bridesmaid dress colors, from sweet pastels to neutral colors. However, some colors may not be flattering for certain skin tones or dress styles. The way a color looks on your bridesmaid can be slightly different depending on her skin tone. Thus, brides need to consider the different complexions of their bridesmaids and find a dress hue that compliments everyone. One way of doing it is by incorporating different tints of the same color to maintain a matching look, while still considering the various skin tones in your bridal party. For instance, if you decide on pink, your bridesmaids can wear hot pink, pastel pink, and dusty pink based on what looks best on them.

4.  Fabric

The fabric you choose for your bridesmaid dresses should complement your wedding dress, blend well with your wedding colors, and be appropriate for the wedding season, time, and venue. For instance, for a fall outdoor wedding, a velvet maxi dress would be perfect. If you’re planning a daytime beach wedding in summer, you may want to choose something light and breathable like chiffon, silk, or tulle.  Fancyvestido has a great selection of beautiful bridesmaid dresses in different styles, fabrics, lengths, and colors, starting from $99.

Summing Up

Choosing the right bridesmaid dresses for your girls isn’t as stressful as it seems.  Remember to keep your dress style and budget in mind.  Whatever you choose, have fun with your besties, create beautiful memories, and enjoy the process! 

Trimming Haru's Razor Claws

Owning a spicy kitty like Haru means being on the receiving end of some pretty impressive scratches now and then, and I recently became a victim of her razor-sharp claws again! A few days ago, I was trying to keep up our tooth-wiping routine after her meal, which Haru barely tolerates. As usual, she was eager to escape, and in her struggle, her claws caught my arm, leaving me with a bloody, 12cm-long scratch. Ouch!

Getting her nails trimmed has always been a bit of a battle. Sherilyn, who usually helps me with these attempts, has been buried under her university assignments and dance rehearsals, and Cass was busy preparing for her exams and keeping up with her ice skating. This has left me on my own to manage Haru's nails, which are seemingly sharper each time I try!

A few weeks ago, I invested in a battery-operated pet nail clipper with LED light, hoping the extra light might make the process easier for both of us. Unfortunately, Haru isn’t interested in cooperating with any tool. I tried luring her with a bowl of kibbles while trying to snip away at her nails. This method let me trim a few nails at lightning speed, but once the kibbles were gone, she was off like a shot, with her claws still mostly untrimmed. The nail clipping turned into a two-part series and soon, it will be a three-part series.  I have to see who’s around tomorrow to help me finish it. I’m hoping an extra set of hands might make this less of a risky exercise.

Despite the scratches and the challenge, I know this is all part of being a pet parent. Trimming her nails may feel like a dangerous mission, but it's necessary to keep her comfortable and safe from any accidental scratches on herself, not just me. Here’s to hoping tomorrow brings a more successful nail-trimming session – wish me luck!

Blardy painful and it's starting to itch now.

Haru's favorite time of the day - mid-morning, where she does a brief sun-bathing at the corridor while I clean her litter box.

Top 5 Tiered Prom Dress Styles for 2024

A tiered dress or skirt is characterized by multiple layers of fabric arranged horizontally, creating a cascading and ruffled effect.  This layering adds volume and graceful movement to the garment. Each layer becomes wider as it descends, offering a voluminous and flouncy silhouette. The tiered style, which dates back to the 19th century and was popularized during the Victorian era, is elegant and is often associated with femininity and aesthetics.

Fashion is ever-evolving, where styles emerge and subtly sneak off. Some styles, such as the tiered dress and skirt, always seem to stay in fashion. This chic style has always been a fashion staple of many women and has been seen on catwalks, red carpets, and Harajuku street fashion.  Tiered dresses and skirts come in a wide array of designs and fabrics. Tiered fashion in gowns is a popular design, available in wedding gowns, bridesmaid gowns, and prom dresses. 

This article will discuss the top five tiered prom dress styles trending in 2024, perfect for prom and homecoming.

1.  Lace-Up Gold Off-the-Shoulder Corset Tiered Ball Gown

This stunning ball gown in glittering gold is a show-stopper. It features an off-shouldered neckline, a corset bodice with sequined embellishment, a pretty lace-up back, and a long tiered skirt made of tulle fabric.  This gown befits any formal occasion, such as prom and wedding.  In addition to gold, it comes in other gorgeous colors such as silver, hot pink, baby blue, and purple.

2.  Deep V-Neck Spaghetti Straps Fuchsia Ruffled Chiffon Prom Dress with Slit

This elegant A-line prom dress in sweet fuchsia is for you if you’re a fan of pink. It’s lovely and flattering, with a ruffled chiffon skirt and an alluring side slit for ease of walking. There’s a zipper at the back for ease of wearing and removing. It’s the perfect prom dress for a girl in bold fuchsia and other sweet colors such as baby blue, pastel yellow, white, and black.

3.  Tie Straps Light Blue Plunging Neck Layered Prom Dress with Appliques

Achieve a stunning princessy look with this tie-strap gown with a plunging neckline and maxi-layered skirt. The inner part of the gown has a mesh insert and lace bodice, eliminating the need to wear a bra. The tiered skirt is beautifully adorned with appliques, making this prom dress fit for a princess.

4.  Mermaid One Shoulder Lavender Sequin Appliques Ruffle Prom Dress

Another stunning show-stopper dress that flaunts your figure. The corset bodice with intricate applique and the one-shoulder neckline show off your shoulders. The ruffled tiered skirt makes it look like an elegant mermaid tail and the side slit makes walking and dancing easier. This gorgeous gown is complete with a built-in bra and a back zipper for a perfect fit

.

5.  Strapless Black Corset A-Line Layered Prom Dress with Slit

This classic strapless corset bodice gown with a multi-tiered skirt is simple yet elegant. It features a sweetheart neckline and a flowing silhouette with a dramatic slit.  It comes in other colors such as emerald green, teal, baby blue, hot pink, and dust pink.

Conclusion

With its effortless elegance, chic, and feminine flair, the tiered prom dress trend shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to capture the attention of young ladies preparing for one of the most important nights of their lives.  Fancyvestido carries an extensive range of beautiful prom dresses, perfect for this occasion and more.

Cass’s Exam Week

This week marks the start of Cass's final exams, a two-week period filled with intense focus and long study sessions. She is in Senior High 1 (equivalent to Form 4) in the Economics & Accounting stream. Each night, she studies late, and every morning, she’s up bright and early, ready to dive back into her books. To keep her energy levels up, she has a hearty breakfast of reheated leftovers from the night before and strong coffee to stay alert before heading to school. She’s convinced that a full stomach helps her concentrate better on exam questions—a solid strategy that’s fueling her focus.

Even amidst the stress of exams, Cass still makes time for her daily exercise routine at night, finding a way to keep her body active and her mind relaxed. Twice a week, she heads to the skating rink for class and training. For her, this is more than just practice; it’s a way to unwind and shake off the stress of exams. The rink is where she can channel her energy, and I think it’s fantastic she’s managed to strike this balance.

Now, there’s a bit of a twist during these exam weeks when Cass is home studying in the mornings: my radio time gets the mute treatment! If you’ve read my past posts, you’ll know that music is essential to my day—whether it's upbeat tunes or gentle bedtime sounds, it’s my constant companion. I’ll admit, I miss hearing it echo through the house, but knowing Cass is hard at work makes the silence worth it.

As Cass powers through this final stretch of exams, I’m glad she manages the pressure and still makes time for what she loves. And as soon as she’s done, you can bet the music will be back on, filling our home with my favorite songs!

Lunner for Cass on one of the days this week with all her favorite dishes. 

Low-carb meal for Cass.  She cooked the pesto omelet herself. Wrapped within the omelet is homemade pesto with cheese.

Unwelcomed Surprises: A Week in the Life of a Mom

This week has been another whirlwind of unexpected events for our family. It started with Alycia’s unplanned visit to SJMC to see her hand and microsurgery doctor. She had developed a cluster of blisters on her post-operated finger, though thankfully, they weren’t on the operated part of her finger but rather on the lower part. After examining the finger, the doctor referred her to a dermatologist, who reassured her that the issue wasn’t serious. She was prescribed a topical cream, and the cost of the bill was RM203, which, unfortunately, isn’t claimable from insurance.

Just when I thought we could put Alycia’s finger issue behind us, Sherilyn had a sudden allergic reaction after eating prawns. Sherilyn’s strange allergy to prawns has always puzzled us. Most of the time, she’s perfectly fine after eating them, but once in a while, she develops hives, as she did this week. We suspect she’s allergic to the chemicals used in certain prawns, as this reaction doesn’t always happen. 

That night, her dad had to rush her to the Accident & Emergency department at our neighborhood hospital, past midnight, to get anti-allergy medication and steroids intravenously. She now has to take oral steroids for a week, but being the resilient girl she is, Sherilyn went right back to university the next day.

Last year Sherilyn was warded in the same hospital for a night to treat a severe allergy after eating prawns.  After the latest hives incident, I told Sherilyn that she should steer clear of eating prawns to avoid another unwanted allergy flareup.

Reflecting on this year, it seems like life has been filled with one unwelcome surprise after another. From Alycia’s freak kitchen accident in June to these health scares, it feels like we’ve been on a rollercoaster. Yet, I’m grateful that nothing major has happened—aside from Alycia’s accident, which we’ve slowly overcome.

As the year draws to a close, I’m hopeful for smoother, more peaceful days ahead. The unpredictability of life has tested us, but it’s also made us stronger. 

Mutton rendang, mixed veggies, and Ayam Masak Merah from Catermate for our lunch and dinner on one of the days earlier this week.

Thai fish cakes and mutton rendang.

Nasi Minyak with fried shallots.

The All-Nighters of an Architecture Student

Sherilyn pulled yet another all-nighter yesterday, this time to finish several sketches of buildings for her architecture course. It amazes me how much drawing and crafting is required in this program—it’s almost as if she’s pursuing an art degree! Last night, she sat in darkness at the dining table, meticulously working on her LED light drawing board, sketching away until the early morning hours. When I woke up and turned the lights on, she moved to the wet kitchen, continuing to draw in the dark, relying on the soft glow of her LED board.

Again, with her eyes fixed on her sketching, her phone played continuous streams of Trevor Noah’s standup comedy shows, giving her a much-needed dose of entertainment and laughs to get through the grueling hours. 

I’m not even sure if she slept at all. Her bed looked neat when I checked, but I suspect she may have snuck in a short nap on the couch—poor girl. The pace of assignments in her course is relentless, notorious for back-to-back submissions, and it seems to push students to the edge of exhaustion. I sometimes wonder how sustainable this is for her health.

As much as I worry about the toll it’s taking on her, I can’t help but notice how it’s affecting me too. After each of these all-nighters, there’s always a mess left behind—pencil shavings, bits of paper, rattan, eraser shavings, and smudges on the tables and floors. While Sherilyn is off rushing to submit her assignments, I find myself cleaning up the aftermath, my hands growing rougher from all the scrubbing.

I truly hope all these sleepless nights don’t harm her health in the long run. The stress, the exhaustion, and the constant rush of deadlines—it’s a heavy load for anyone to carry. But for now, it’s part of her journey, and I’ll continue to support her the best I can, even if it means rougher hands and more cleaning up after her creative storms.

Sitting in the wet kitchen in darkness and the only light comes from the LED lights of her drawing board and the fire from the stove.

The Life of a First-Year Architecture Student

Sherilyn is back to her busy university routine, and it's been a whirlwind since she started her first year of architecture studies. In less than a month, she’s already deep into back-to-back assignments, and this week has been particularly intense. Several all-nighters were pulled to meet deadlines, but Tuesday was a whole new level of commitment—or rather, sleep deprivation.

That day, she sat at our dining table for almost 24 hours straight, working meticulously on a series of models made from rattan and hard cardboard. With her eyes fixed on her craft, her laptop played continuous streams of Josh Johnson’s standup comedy shows, giving her a much-needed distraction to get through the grueling hours. It was fascinating to watch how she balanced concentration on her work with the humor of Josh Johnson playing in the background. 

By the end of those long 24 hours with zero shut eye, Sherilyn finally completed her models and rushed off to university to submit her assignment, leaving behind what I dread the most—the aftermath. Unwashed dishes, a cluttered dining table, and dirty floors were left for me to tackle. But I suppose this is going to be the scene in our house for the next three years, at least until she graduates.

Despite the mess and the sleepless nights, I remind myself that these sacrifices will eventually pay off. Seeing Sherilyn work so hard toward her degree makes me proud, and I know that watching her succeed will make all of this worthwhile. I’ll keep cleaning up after her as long as it means she’s one step closer to reaching her goals and graduating with success.

Intricate designs - the top two models were cut from long strips of rattan sticks and glued together.

Drawing on an LED drawing pad in a dark room; Messy dining table. Everyone at home has to bear with a super messy table almost every day.

The Never-Ending Battle of Picking Up Hair: A Frustrated Mom’s Rant

If you're a mother with daughters, you're probably all too familiar with this infuriating and exasperating task: picking up hair from every corner of the house. No matter how many times I remind my daughters to clean up after themselves, it feels like their "selective forgetfulness" kicks in. Whether it's after brushing their hair or using a hair dryer, there are always strands left behind—on pillows, bedding, the floor, toilet seat, tables, and chairs. It drives me up the wall!

Every day, I find myself with a lint roller in hand, tediously rolling off hair from every surface. The frustration comes when I remind them to pick up their hair, and they nod and say "OK," but nothing changes. The next day, I see the same mess, and their excuse is always the same: "I forgot," or "I had to rush to school." I know it’s selective forgetfulness, and it’s frustrating beyond words.

As a mom who’s on the OCD side, it’s exhausting having to clean up after them constantly. I’m tired of rolling hair off every surface in the house, only to be greeted by the same mess the very next hour. How do other moms deal with this level of irresponsibility in their kids? How do you get them to take simple tasks like cleaning up their hair seriously? 😐

If you’ve figured out how to get your daughters to clean up after their own mess, I’d love to hear your secret. But for now, I’ll keep rolling away, hoping one day it clicks for them!

Why I Now Support My Daughters Getting the HPV Vaccine: A Change of Heart

Yesterday, I received a WhatsApp message from Alycia telling me that some healthcare personnel visited her university, offering free HPV vaccines to female students. Since she hadn't taken the HPV jab before, she decided to get it. Years ago, I advised Alycia and Sherilyn to skip the free HPV vaccines offered at school. At that time, the research I found didn’t convince me that it was necessary, and I felt uneasy about the possible side effects.

However, as time passed, and after further conversations with my gynecologist and conducting updated research, my perspective on the HPV vaccine shifted. I became more confident in its importance, particularly in preventing cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases. Earlier this year, Cass took the HPV vaccine, and now Alycia has as well.

What’s even more interesting is the recent change in HPV vaccine guidelines. Previously, the vaccine was administered in three doses, which deterred me initially. However, recent findings led the World Health Organization (WHO) to revise their HPV vaccine recommendations, supporting a single-dose regimen in many cases. The Pan-American Health Organization followed this guidance in September 2023, and by February 2024, 37 countries had adopted this new approach. This means that both Cass and Alycia only need one dose instead of three, a big win in terms of convenience and protection.

Alycia also mentioned that the free vaccines were sponsored by the National Cancer Society of Malaysia. This is a big deal because if we had to get the vaccine outside of this initiative, it could easily cost several thousand ringgit. I’ve also told Sherilyn that if the National Cancer Society visits her university to offer the free vaccine, she should take it too.

I’m grateful that my daughters now have access to this crucial protection without the burden of high costs. I feel more confident about this decision, and I’m relieved that they are on track to be protected against the risks of HPV. If you have daughters and are on the fence like I once was, I encourage you to speak to your healthcare provider and do your own research. The more informed we are, the better we can protect our loved ones.

My Favorite Healthy Dessert: Chia Seed Pudding

One of my go-to healthy desserts is chia seed pudding, which I enjoy every other day. It’s a simple, delicious, and nutritious way to satisfy my sweet tooth. My favorite version is made with coconut milk and palm sugar. With 3 to 4 tablespoons of soaked chia seeds, I mix in a squirt of trim coconut milk and drizzle it with Gula Melaka (palm sugar) syrup. On other days, I switch things up by adding soaked chia seeds to a bowl of skinny yogurt, which is sugar- and additive-free with a squirt of palm sugar syrup. For a creamier texture, I sometimes add a spoonful or two of Greek yogurt to the bowl of skinny yogurt. On days when I am too busy to enjoy my chia seed dessert, I will quickly stir in two tablespoons of soaked chia seeds into my morning beverage of organic almond milk with flax seeds meal.

Why Chia Seeds Are So Healthy

Chia seeds are a true superfood, packed with nutrients despite their tiny size. They are an excellent source of fiber, which helps prevent constipation by promoting regular bowel movements. The fiber also aids digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer, making chia seeds great for weight management. Additionally, chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, and they contain important minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, essential for bone health. Plus, they’re a good source of plant-based protein.

This simple chia seed pudding is tasty and provides a powerful health boost, keeping my digestion smooth and my body energized. Whether paired with coconut milk or yogurt or added to my healthy beverage, chia seeds make a versatile and satisfying dessert!

Simple chia seeds pudding - soaked chia seeds with trim coconut milk and Gula Melaka syrup. Mix everything up and enjoy it chilled. This tastes like sago pudding with coconut milk and Gula Melaka syrup.

Sleepless Nights with Haru

Last night was another one of those nights where sleep evaded me, thanks to Haru. Though it doesn’t happen frequently, it does happen. 

In the wee hours of this morning, she persistently meowed outside my bedroom door. I tried to ignore it, but after several minutes of her insistent calls, I eventually caved in and opened the door to let her in.

Once inside, she made herself comfortable by jumping onto my bed. This has happened more than a few times now, and I’m still trying to figure out whether she’s just hungry or if her meowing is her way of checking to ensure I’m still alive and well. 

After settling on the bed, Haru began scratching at my blanket. I stopped her immediately, knowing exactly what she wanted—to crawl under the blanket to be nearer to me. It’s sweet, but I have reasons for being uncomfortable with this. As much as I love Haru, I’m allergic to her fur, and having her nestled under the covers with me would only worsen my allergies.

She seemed a bit disappointed when I didn’t let her under the blanket, but she stayed on the bed for a short while before eventually jumping off and walking out of the room. I felt a little guilty as she left, but I know I have to draw boundaries when it comes to sleep.  She walked away perhaps she was convinced that I was still alive 😺

As a cat owner, I adore Haru’s company and her little quirks, but when it comes to bedtime, I just can’t relax knowing she’s on the bed, especially under the blanket. I’ll always cherish our moments together, but for the sake of a good night’s sleep and my health, I’ll have to keep working on finding a balance!

My soul cat likes to sit on this stool near the bathroom and wait for me to come out.

The Benefits of Kinesiology Tape: Why It’s Used by Athletes and My Family

Kinesiology tape, commonly known as KT tape, has gained immense popularity, especially among athletes, including Olympians, who use it to alleviate pain and support muscle recovery. It has become such a staple in sports medicine that even in my household, KT tape is a permanent fixture on my daughters' bodies—almost like colorful tattoos.

Sherilyn uses it for her back injury from dance training, while Cass applies it to her ankle to support her during figure skating.  Recently, I’ve started using KT tape on my right hand in an attempt to manage the nagging pain from tennis elbow.

Kinesiology tape is a thin, flexible tape developed to aid muscle movement and enhance athletic performance. It is often used to relieve pain, reduce swelling and inflammation, and provide support to joints and muscles.

Many Olympians and top athletes swear by KT tape because it helps reduce pain without hindering their performance. One of the primary benefits of KT tape is its ability to lift the skin slightly, which increases blood circulation and reduces inflammation. By doing this, it also helps to alleviate pressure on muscles and joints, which can be especially useful for athletes pushing their bodies to the limit.

In my household, Sherilyn, Cass, and hubby use KT tape regularly. Sherilyn applies it to her back, an injury sustained from dance training a few years ago that still hasn’t fully healed. The KT tape provides her with enough support to continue her rigorous dance routines without aggravating the injury. Cass, on the other hand, uses KT tape on her ankle, which has seen persistent strain from figure skating classes. The tape gives her the stability she needs on the ice without compromising her performance. Hubby uses these tapes on his legs and right hand.  He plays basketball regularly and often has injuries on his legs. He, like me, also has a tennis elbow on his right hand.

Recently, I’ve joined my daughters and hubby in the KT tape trend. I’ve been dealing with tennis elbow, a stubbornly persistent condition. The pain makes even simple tasks, like lifting objects or folding a blanket, a challenge. Applying KT tape to my right hand has provided some relief, though it’s not a cure-all. However, the support it gives me has helped me manage everyday movements and reduce strain.

KT tapes sold in pharmacies are very expensive, about RM50 onwards for a roll of 5cm x 5m tape.  I buy these tapes at a fraction of the price online from Lazada, at around RM15 a roll. These tapes come in many bright and attractive colors, as well as nude. I prefer colorful ones as I love anything that's colorful.

KT tapes sold at one of the pharmacies @ Lazada, which are pretty expensive.

Cheaper KT tapes are sold by other sellers on Lazada. I bought these.

Cuddles, Laughter, and Fake Eyelashes

Whenever Sherilyn comes home, her first instinct is always the same—she goes on a mission to find our beloved cat, Haru. Without fail, she picks her up and gives her the biggest cuddle, kisses her, and squeezing her tight as though Haru were a plush toy. Poor Haru, being the independent and non-affectionate cat that she is, barely tolerates this for a minute before squeezing her way out of Sherilyn’s arms. Haru has never been a fan of extended cuddles, preferring her personal space and short moments of affection. But Sherilyn, filled with love and excitement after a long day, can never resist showering her with more attention than Haru can handle.

Last week, after Sherilyn's win at the Asia Open Dance Championship, where she secured the gold medal in the modern contemporary (solo) event for her age group, she came home in an exceptionally good mood. She removed her fake eyelashes from the competition and, still buzzing with happiness, decided to goof around with Haru. In her playful state, she attached the fake eyelashes to Haru’s eyes, and we both burst into laughter at the sight. Haru looked absolutely hilarious, but her expression clearly showed her confusion at being the center of this little joke. I felt bad for her after a few minutes and asked Sherilyn to quickly take the fake eyelashes off.

Despite our antics, Haru remains the heart of our home. Her calm presence and adorable loafing around the house bring us so much joy, even when we’re in a bad mood. There are days when I find myself feeling frustrated or upset about something, but Haru’s quiet charm and comforting aura instantly ease the tension. It’s as if she knows exactly how to diffuse my anger and calm my nerves.

Haru may not love long cuddles or too much fuss, but she brings a special kind of warmth into our lives.  We can’t help but spoil our little fur baby, even when it means accidentally subjecting her to a few minutes of fake eyelash drama! 😆

We love Haru so much, and it’s a joy to have her loafing around the house, being her quiet, intelligent self. She's the little glue that keeps our home filled with laughter and peace.

Still groggy from being woken up from her sleep, Haru didn't resist the silly fake eyelashes stuck to her eyes by her sister.