Inspiration

I came across THIS today and I think it’s both very inspiring and sad at the same time. When I was younger, I was protected in a bubble that made me naive enough to think that the world is a safe and happy place to live in. That ‘happily ever after’ is not just a fantasy. How wrong was I??

So when I come across stories like these, it depresses me to know that there ARE actually people going through these hardships. I am really glad that there are campaigns like these who commit to help others. I am surely inspired to do the same for those in Brunei. I get really teary-eyed when I hear stories similar to these which are happening in Brunei. I can only pray for the best for everyone.

If you’ve clicked on the link, read ‘Ali’s Story’.

Talents of the Infamous

Sometimes when I get bored, and have nothing else to browse on the internet… I go to YouTube and search “Acoustic Cover”. Yes, i’m a sucker for awesome acoustic cover versions by the infamous. And most of the time (almost ALL the time), I find someone who is really REALLY good and I just wish I can sing HALF as good as they can. So today… I came across this lady here… Did NOT expect that voice to come out of her.. seriously. Have a listen:

And because of these people… I grab my guitar and motivated to sing like them. BUT TO NO AVAIL!! HAHAHAHA.

I miss watching talented people on stage. I miss watching gigs. Oasis is on tour in the UK at the moment (Cardiff on the 12th i think)… I wanna go!! I should have not gone on seetickets.com. Sakit hati saja.. haha

SURIA’s CALLING ME!!! LATERSSSSSSS

Always start with a dream

Today… I feel defeated. This is the first time I’ve felt this way ever since I came back. There are so many things that I want to do… buy I’ve recently realized that it is now close to impossible. I envy those who are doing what they are passionate about. Crossing out their list one by one.

Maybe it’s just today. Or maybe it is because i have finally seen how the system really works. And it’s not promising.

My mind has been going crazy ever since I attended the Environment Youth Envoys (EYEs) Workshop for the past 3 days. I have no idea why. Maybe I’m just exhausted because I haven’t had a day off for the past week. I’m physically tired, but now with all this thinking… I am mentally EXHAUSTED! I seriously need a break. My mind needs a break.

“Be the Change You Wish To See in This World” – Mahatma Gandhi

And with that….. Good night everyone.

Let’s hope for a better tomorrow :)

No matter what…… I’m never gonna leave you…

Poojas at Uncle Lias’ wedding. I totally covered Nadi’s face… hahahaha, sorry beh! AND, Aunty Yati and Uncle Din are such a couple. We were told to freestyle, they BOTH gave the same ‘thumbs-up’ pose. HAHA.

DVD Day on a Friday

I haven’t had such a productive week since … forever! Work has been good to me, but it really has been a pretty hectic week. Pretty busy that… yesterday, when I finally had the opportunity to actually sit down on my desk and do my own work, i forgot how relaxing it felt. And that was barely 10mins! When I told Hakeem about this, he said “at least you’ve adapted. You are officially a working woman”. That’s when it FINALLY kicked in …that I’m in the next stage on my life – the working life. I may have mentioned it a lot, but it seriously just kicked in. Yup, after 3 months!! THAT, and the fact that I just received my pay. HAHA!

Have I mentioned that I’m part of the Environmental Club in school? HEHE :) If I’m going to make a change, gotta start small right? :)

The poojas finally went out for a movie outting last weekend. Went to watch ‘Wolverine’. I miss movie outtings with the poojas. The rest of the Poojas are coming back next month, Aimi end of this month. Can’t wait to get everyone together under one roof :)

I’m gona go. I was just inspired to blog, seeing other people’s blogs. Especially Nisa’s. Goodness, that girl is amazing. She has 3 blogs and she updates them quite regularly. Nisa, you know you’re awesome! :)

Laters people! <3

 

P/S: Mother’s Day is on Sunday!!! :)

Rare update

I’ll admit it. I really don’t have good time management. Which leaves my blog hanging with no daily (or weekly for that matter) updates. I really have been busy. No, not busy with unproductive things. They really have been productive (*proud moment please*) hahahaha. But now, I am just really exhausted. The past three weeks have been seriously hectic. 2 weddings back to back, so my weekends and week-nights were pretty much filled. Work got really REALLY busy as well, days are really long~ And markings are endless.

I have not gone to Lambak in a while. I can’t believe that I am actually homesick, EVEN if I’m back home. Nyeh! I miss the poojas. Will surely arrange an outing soon. Yes poojas?? :D

ALSO, I have not spoken to any of the Miskin babies in ages!!! I haven’t been online much even. (Oh gosh, i feel so uncool hahahaha) I hope you are all alright and enjoying yourselves this easter break. I miss you all loadssss. Talk soon yea???

Lets see… what else happened?

PAPAH’S BIRTHDAY!!! He turned 51 last Monday. We haven’t gone out for proper birthday dinner or anything, because zara has exams going on. Aimi’s birthday card for Papah arrived the next day, and it was awesome. The humour in it! Nyahahaha.

I’m gona go now. I'll leave you with these pictures from Abg Justin’s wedding.

… more next time. I’ve to eat! hehe

Holiday

First term holiday!!!

… and I’m working. I already have holiday homework. Yes, even a tutor has holiday homework. Who would have thought =P

Yesterday, at the end of one of my classes, I wished them a happy holiday and to enjoy it. Then two girls went up to me and salam my hand. I was touched, although i felt old too. Haha. But that made my day really. Simple gestures like that can really make someone smile :)

I guess we have settled in the new campus already. The principal and DP actually said that they were impressed at how fast everyone has settled in. Here are just a few pictures from the first day of Meragang.

On another note, today marks the start of the wedding marathon. It should be fun, busy and tiring. Haha. Especially when I have work the next day. Also, we are expecting two new babies this month or next. These sort of events makes me so glad that I am back home =)

And with that….. I’m off!

Til next time lovelies :)

New Campus

We have moved to Meragang. And I do NOT enjoy the long traffic at all!! But not to worry, first term break is just around the corner.

BUT next 3 weeks will be filled with Weddings. Good luck to me! I will definitely try to get as much sleep as possible!!!

Laters

Get to know myself better:

I've stumbled across THIS whilst checking Iza's blog. I don't usually do this, but figured I have time. And the answers are quite interesting... and ALMOST right. I wouldn't say that my fear is not being accepted by people. I TRY to be accepted by people, but not that HARD. And I really don't care so much about what I'm wearing.. well, maybe not as much as some people. Comfort over Fashion - definitely!

Your view on yourself:

You are intelligent, honest and sweet. You are friendly to everybody and don't like conflict. Because you're so cheerful and fun people are naturally attracted to you and like to talk to you.

The type of girlfriend/boyfriend you are looking for:

You like serious, smart and determined people. You don't judge a book by its cover, so good-looking people aren't necessarily your style. This makes you an attractive person in many people's eyes.

Your readiness to commit to a relationship:

You prefer to get to know a person very well before deciding whether you will commit to the relationship.

The seriousness of your love:

Your have very sensible tactics when approaching the opposite sex. In many ways people find your straightforwardness attractive, so you will find yourself with plenty of dates.

Your views on education

Education is very important in life. You want to study hard and learn as much as you can.

The right job for you:

You're a practical person and will choose a secure job with a steady income. Knowing what you like to do is important. Find a regular job doing just that and you'll be set for life.

How do you view success:

You are afraid of failure and scared to have a go at the career you would like to have in case you don't succeed. Don't give up when you haven't yet even started! Be courageous.

What are you most afraid of:

You are concerned about your image and the way others see you. This means that you try very hard to be accepted by other people. It's time for you to believe in who you are, not what you wear.

Who is your true self:

You are full of energy and confidence. You are unpredictable, with moods changing as quickly as an ocean. You might occasionally be calm and still, but never for long.

Like I said, most of it is right.. especially the whole "afraid of failure" part. I seriously am afraid of failure, but I'm learning to accept that failure is part of learning. And that nobody's perfect.

You should try it. You might be surprised at how accurate it can be.

One fine day.

Finally! A Long weekend! A much needed rest. HAHA. Baru jua a week of teaching. I cannot imagine how the others have been doing this for years. I guess you learn to adapt.

It isn't as bad as it sounds. Teaching. It is actually fun, especially when the kids interact with you a lot. And I really do appreciate their sense of humour, surely makes it more fun. I never thought a simple "Thanks teacher" at the end of the lessons would mean a lot. If I knew any better, I would have said it a lot to my teachers back then. It's nice when you get appreciated like that.

I had a lot to talk about, but now I am lost for words. I miss them Pujas in UK. Not to worry, they'll be back soon enough.

I'll just continue next time.

Laters.

Where is the Love

Okay.... This person deserves some fame. I've been listening to "Where is the Love" by the Black Eyed Peas a LOT lately, so figured I'd learn the chords of the guitar through youtube. SEKALI this cover of the song totally caught my attention, lawa berabis. You all should give it a listen. I've played it over and over and OVER again. It is simply awesome.

Here you go:

SHOUT OUT..

... to FEESH: Get Well soon babe! Painkillers should do the trick. If not, I'll give you my wisdoms if you want it back =P

Photographer

I want to marry Mike Rosenthal. He takes amazing photos. (The fact that he's gorgeous is such a PLUSS PLUSSS) Hahaha.

HERE. For his portfolio.

On other matters:

(i) Work has been good. Lovely people there, although it has been a bit slow paced because I'm still waiting for the new intakes to come in for me to teach. I actually can't wait.

(ii) Just watched 'Slumdog Millionaire' a couple of days ago. I now understand why they won so many awards.

(iii) I was browsing through my pictures in Facebook (those of which I was tagged). And I realised that I miss UK/Uni life a lot, and the people involved in those memories. Gosh, it feels like ages ago. But I've only been back for good for just over 2 months. Must be the whole 'working atmosphere' that's really overwhelming right now.

Oh gosh, I am tired. Good night everyone.

Work work work

The transition begins tomorrow. I will be starting my working life tomorrow. Wish me luck! This is going to be a hell of a ride. I am looking forward to it, albeit nervous! Haha =S

Anyways, I went around Bandar last time with Mr Hakeem. Took the opportunity to take pictures of Kampong Ayer. It was a gloomy day, so I had to edit the photos. It has been gloomy for a few days now, although rain hasn't been that bad. So I hope the situation is better now :)

 

P/s: HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO FAYE (7th) and NIRA (8th)!! *hugs* I miss youuuu!!

Goodbye January

Well, there goes January.

All I can say was that it was pretty much unproductive for me. Days were filled with cinemas, dvds, food and MORE food. But it wasn't all bad, not bad at all actually. Lets see: Hadi's Engagement, Aunty Wani & Family were back, Tasneem's Birthday Bash, Job applications and Diner Dash. So can't complain about January can I? I'm living the life.... except without money. Haha.

Oh, and I finally met up with Nisa (Keriting hehehe!) after soooo long. She has not changed a bit, although her other half has grown so much taller than the last time I met them!! We had lunch with Umie as well, she's back in UK though. (Sorry I didn't send you off mie!!) Was glad I could meet up with her before ya balik :)

One month down, means everything else is getting closer: three family weddings coming up (March, April and August), the Poojas in UK will be coming back in June hopefully!, Suria will be coming back for good this year?, two cousins due in March and April (more babiess! weee).

Nadal is playing against Federer as we speak. I'm rooting for Nadal, although Federer is as good. Plus, dorang BFFs. So I don't mind really.

I need a job man. ASAP. I need some dough to go around. Hahaha.

Okay, I'm gona go. I'm starting to be random.

You put the sun to shame

Oh man, it has been raining hard this first month of 2009. It's actually scary. I pray for everyone's safety. Do be careful everybody :)

Anyways, it was Tasneem's belated birthday party last Sunday night. It has been so long since the last time everyone gathered and danced all night. Even Hakeem danced... by forced of course.. and for half a song! Haha. Even doing the 'Pocho-Pocho' (sp?) was fun. Aunty Dayat taught us the simple steps, and everyone did it. In the pictures, you can actually see us lining up, as if dancing to 'Thriller' or something. Hahaha. Pictures up next time though.

And yesterday, Aunty Wani went back to Brisbane. That was sad. Fifi cried berabis. Kesian. Before that, we all gathered in Lambak, and just before leaving, Fifi hugged me tight cos she said "im going Kaka San". Then I said "But Fifi, I'm sending you off to the airport. It's okay". Then she said "But i'm going". Oh, the look on her face. I'm going this little cutie terribly!

Oh... BY THE WAY.... let me say this. I'm not one to hate fireworks. They are amazing! BUT NOT WHEN PLAYED AT 5 IN THE MORNING!!!!! And not when it sounded like a machine gun. TWICE!!! People were sleeping. Who the hell plays fireworks at 5! Hafiohsgohsgfbandvnog!!

Bah ok. Thank you. Have a nice day =D

Go Green

I can't believe it's already past 2 weeks of the new year. I haven't exactly done anything much productive, and it sucks. Although, I've had an 'interview' once and reported to Jabatan Sekolah2 already. The rest of the days are filled with house chores, reading books, movies and food. We've had sembahyang & tahlil for the past 2 days and people keep asking me "apatah? kraja sudah?" "interview sudah?" "Jadi apatah?". I didn't think it was going to be this hard. Well, I wouldn't say hard... I'd say confusing. I've probably had more advices these past 2 days than I've had the whole of last year. Haha. Totally grateful though. But i'm confused now. I just want to work now, earn my OWN money and spend my OWN money!

Oh, by the way... I want to thank these people (plus Papah, Mummy and every other Poojas who are missing in the picture):

....and these people:

... for this:

.... and this:

.... respectively :)

Random note:

I've just read 'The Catcher in the Rye'. And there was this one line he said "The best thing... in that museum was that everything always stayed right where it was. Nobody'd move..... Nobody'd be different. The only thing that would be different would be you. Not that you'd be so much older or anything. It wouldn't be that, exactly. You'd just be different, that's all".

Sometimes I wish that my life was that museum. Where nothing and nobody would change. Not even me. But I remember coming back for summer holidays, the first time, it was the total opposite. Well, I might have changed, but I didn't realise it. But everyone else changed, and it hit me hard. It was a different experience that kept repeating everytime I came back. I guess everyone has gone through this at one point in their life. If I had it my way, I'd probably still be living in Lambak with all my Poojas, playing basketball or rollerblades hockey. Eventually though, I got over it and let things change. It wasn't that bad. Plus, once you get around it, you start to realise that some things will never change. And those things are the ones you hold on to for memories :)

Thank You

On this rainy day, I would just like to say a BIGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG Thank You to everyone who has greeted me yesterday. Be it on Facebook or Texts. I really appreciate all the words and wishes, mudahan it will all come true.. AMIN!! If that's not enough, here's some more:

Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You Thank You

:)

It was my first birthday back in Brunei after Four years. It's great to have 'firsts' again huh? I had dimsum in the morning, thanks to Aunty Wani. Then the rest of the afternoon was spent helping my mom cook for dinner. It was the traditional Puja birthday in Lambak, but hey! I'm one for traditions! And I haven't had that in a while. I had a lovely cake shared with Zara (3rd) and Aunty Nong (2nd), surrounded by family. What more could I have asked for? Hakeem was there too, to see all the commotion that is Lambak. And all the food!!! Oh goshh.... Was I stuffed!!!

Anyways, THANK YOU again! I reallllyyyy reallllyyyy appreciate it :)

Love,

the now 23 year old SANTY xxxxxx

2009 is here!

HELLO 2009!! I still can't believe that another year has gone just like that. And again... even if it feels like time has passed by SO fast... you look back and realize that you've actually accomplished a lot. Since yesterday, I've been blog hopping to see what others have done for NYE, their resolutions and such. It's quite interesting to read the different things each person wants to accomplish this year, and how they plan to do it. I've come up with a few resolutions, lets hope I can successfully execute it this year :D

New Year's Eve was mostly spent with the family. Everyone (except Dani.. pasal ya DITCHER!! hahahaha) didn't have any plans but to meet up at Uncle Alias' house for bbq. Food was good. Grilling the burgers ourselves was fun, with special recipes... haha. Then Nadi, Iza, Zara, Mimi, Ka Tuty and I drove around insearch for fireworks. We ended up parking on the side of the highway at Empire Hotel and sat on the grass. It was actually the best seat on the house. That was fun. Oh gosh, it was packed! After that, we got thirsty and went to Coffeezone. Si Nadi karaoked there! Hahaha. Inda lagi tau the songs. We might not have plans earlier, but our NYE together was awesome. My first new year's back home after 4 years. It was great :)

Pictures are up my facebook btw. I'm actually surprised it worked, pasal selalunya failed attempt blablabla.

Oh... it's Aunty Nong's birthday today and Zara's tomorrow. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! :D

I can't wait for the beach gathering this Sunday. I miss the beach here, and haven't been to one since I came back. This should be good. Fun and games :D

Okay, I don't know what else to say. But HAPPY NEW YEAR again! :) Hope everyone will accomplish all their goals for 2009. Mudahan everyone will be successful di dunia dan juga di akhirat. Amin! :)