tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18905327319466377302024-02-22T01:11:19.117+08:00Els Dines' Online DiaryEls Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.comBlogger213125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-91666876968380071702021-06-16T19:46:00.001+08:002021-06-16T19:46:16.635+08:00Do You Like Who You're Becoming?<p> <i><b>"Change is the only constant in life"</b></i> - a very famous philosopher (Greek, if I'm not mistaken)</p><p><br /></p><p>I think this philosopher was going somewhere with this. He/She is right. Change happens all around us, all the time. Weather, culture, job, relationship... even we change! Our worldview changes, hobbies, partners, and even our bodies. </p><p><br /></p><p>As we are at the half-year mark of 2021 (<i>I know. I can't believe it either</i>), I can't help but wonder what I've achieved for the past 6 months and what I would like to accomplish before the year ends. Sometimes, it is helpful to stop and evaluate and see which direction we are heading. And so, with that in mind, I have a question for you today (<i>and for myself too, if I'm being completely honest</i>) :</p><p><br /></p><p><b>Do you like the person you are becoming? </b></p><p><br /></p><p>Because there are 3 possible outcomes to change:</p><p>1) it is getting better</p><p>2) it is getting worse</p><p>3) or the change is neutral </p><p><br /></p><p>So, we are either becoming more like the people we want to be, or less. Because if we are moving further and further from the person we want to be, it is wise to notice that as soon as possible so that some corrections can be made.</p><p><br /></p><p>Of course, this isn't always an easy question to answer. In most cases, it's not as simple as a "yes" or "no". We may look at our trajectory and be proud of some of the changes, but regret others. There's always going to be pros and cons. </p><p><br /></p><p>*We may be excelling at work but becoming more demanding and less kind along the way. </p><p>*We may be losing weight but becoming more proud and vain on appearances.</p><p><br /></p><p>When put in such scenario, when it comes down to the heart of the matter, do I like the person I am becoming? </p><p><br /></p><p>I have been reflecting lately, and here's what I have learned: </p><p>1) If you are not happy with the person you are becoming, you can always change. <i>NOBODY can ever take away your right to change.</i> Positive change is ALWAYS possible because YOU are the only person who gets to decide who you are going to become. </p><p><br /></p><p>2) It is never too late to change. Sure, the best time for a positive change may have been yesterday or ten years ago, but the second best time is right now. If you're still living, you've got time to change. No matter how much time we have left, we can always set an example. </p><p><br /></p><p>3) People are remembered most for who they were, not what they accomplished. If the accomplishment you are trying to pursue is resulting in negative changes, remind yourself that who you are is more important. The people who know you best will always remember you for your values and character more than your personal achievements. </p><p><br /></p><p>So, with that said, may we all be changing for the better. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-60449986513467582732020-12-31T15:27:00.004+08:002020-12-31T15:27:38.518+08:0010 Highlights of 2020<p> This year has been... <b><i>different...</i></b> to say the very least. </p><p><br /></p><p>When the first lockdown happened back in Mar/Apr, I was certain that nothing good would come out the year anymore. I was already having a very tough time dealing with everything that was happening around me and lockdown didn't make things easier. </p><p><br /></p><p>Like everyone and everywhere in the world, I was forced to spend more time with myself. I was forced to be in isolation. I was forced to live life very differently. My routine and my life changed immensely. I didn't know how to adapt to things that quickly. I didn't know how to appreciate my extra time off. I was forced to learn all these new things. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDMF1r21U8CI4YSOQAVjBasfiKXVT6UyuAO9y55P9kRkXmccvLF55_Gyjl1VYH2NHQKO27n8mAjlLWGSuu0LB4ydodmuEHjJaW-vAX4uGY1-dTqVX0BCH0LvOZkZGlZo8SqCBrj30DOhkT/s4896/DSC06144.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3672" data-original-width="4896" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDMF1r21U8CI4YSOQAVjBasfiKXVT6UyuAO9y55P9kRkXmccvLF55_Gyjl1VYH2NHQKO27n8mAjlLWGSuu0LB4ydodmuEHjJaW-vAX4uGY1-dTqVX0BCH0LvOZkZGlZo8SqCBrj30DOhkT/s16000/DSC06144.JPG" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>While all of that sounds scary, it was also an adventure. 2020 has been a roller coaster for <b>everyone</b>. However, in such difficult times, I am grateful that I still have my amazing jobs. I am thankful that my friends and family and myself are safe. A lot of people say that 2020 is bad news. While it is quite true, but there are some good things that came out of this. </p><p><br /></p><p>Our earth was taking time to heal from all sorts of pollution. Some are fortunate enough to spend more time with loved ones. Some are fortunate enough to work from the comfort of their own homes.</p><p>On the not so fortunate note, some lost their jobs. Some lost their businesses. Some lost their families/loved ones. It's a heartbreaking year, I'm not going to lie. I've lost people too this year.</p><p><br /></p><p>However, as I was pondering on all the events that took place for the past 12 months, I've managed to think of 10 highlights for this year. </p><p><br /></p><p><b>1. I was fortunate enough to appear on TV twice</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>2. I conducted and assisted my first ever NLP course back in September</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>3. At this age, I was certain that it would be more difficult to make new friends but I've managed to meet 2 amazing people</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>4. I got to nurture my current friendships </b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>5. I managed to cut off toxic people, people who claim that I am their girl friend, babe, best friend, etc...</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>6. I know this is probably an awful thing to say but I got out of a turbulent relationship. Don't get me wrong, no love was lost there. No hate whatsoever. It was just time. And in a weird way, I feel like I've gotten a part of myself back</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>7. After months of consideration, I finally accepted that I was the problem of my financial status. Because ever since lockdown, I've managed to save money and live comfortably for the rest of the year</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>8. One great thing about lockdown is I've finally taken my workout seriously and so, managed to lose some weight and build muscles</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>9. I got to see my family twice this year which was amazing because normally, it's once a year. And because of the pandemic, we communicate on FaceTime more often. I love that</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>10. In a very long time, I've finally put me first. No relationships, nothing. It's just me. I took time off to read, learn new recipes, glow up for myself, not for anyone else</b></p><p><br /></p><p>In other words, I've managed to learn more about myself this year. I've gone through tough times mostly alone. I came out of the situations stronger. So, no matter what happens in the next year, tough times don't last forever. You'll get through this. We will all get through this together. </p><p><br /></p><p><b><i>Happy New Year, everyone! Stay safe x</i></b></p>Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-64973971825289831072020-12-13T22:56:00.003+08:002020-12-13T22:56:15.838+08:0010 Things To Do This December<p>2020 has been very different, to say the least. To be quite honest, I can't even believe we're in December already. It's kind of weird, because the month of March, April and May felt like 5 years. Then October came along and time just started flying by again. Next thing you know, here we are. I really hope all of you are doing well. </p><p><br /></p><p>This post is obviously 13 days too late but I'm still going to write about it anyway. Sometimes, things just happen so quickly and life just happens. So, I guess this post is kind of like a reminder for everyone, including myself. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkCKKqfby59273diejHSNd2Ak8X4pUjmmeDZR5aUUoHGZp1tX1e3nkgRNJsDKB3rDsZPbDlD3b5s-qO8nyCIZAW5cIACwAB36e20GBlxVIymK5-IQNVeaGSk0V_Ej6VdPIEFsKqsCHtCWS/s2048/20190510_191353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkCKKqfby59273diejHSNd2Ak8X4pUjmmeDZR5aUUoHGZp1tX1e3nkgRNJsDKB3rDsZPbDlD3b5s-qO8nyCIZAW5cIACwAB36e20GBlxVIymK5-IQNVeaGSk0V_Ej6VdPIEFsKqsCHtCWS/s16000/20190510_191353.jpg" height="550"/></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Since this December is quite different from most of the Decembers we've had, here are just some of the things I've come up with and have done since December 1st 2020. </p><p><br /></p><p>1. Try out some DIYs Christmas decorations or any kind of DIYs that tickle your fancy and get creative at home with the family/friends/partner. (Trust me, I was never into DIYs but decided to give it a go this festive month with the influence of my friend and it was honestly really fun!)</p><p><br /></p><p>2. Make a budget and stick to it. (Before December even came, I told all of my friends and family members not to look for me for leisure activities and eating outdoors in January because I will be broke and I will be sad. So, I decided to make a budget instead so that I do not have to be fat, miserable, broke and unproductive next month)</p><p><br /></p><p>3. Make your home as cozy as possible (while having Christmas music in the background just to get you going. Even if you live alone - like me - I'd still love to come home to a cozy, Christmassy looking home at the end of the day. It's a good jump start for the new year anyway. So, why not?)</p><p><br /></p><p>4. Exercise when you have the time and when you can because it's going to be a food roller coaster this month (whether you are trying to gain weight or lose weight, don't neglect your body. Sweat it out when you get the time!)</p><p><br /></p><p>5. Spend time with loved ones - friends, family, people elsewhere - via Zoom or phone calls. (I never get the time to really sit down and catch up with people who are close to me. So I've been setting some time aside for all my loved ones. Always check up on them when you can especially during these tough times)</p><p><br /></p><p>6. Buy and reward yourself something you've wanted since the start of the year or since forever ago (because let's be honest, you freakin' deserve it! All of us do for making it this far!)</p><p><br /></p><p>7. Write down 2 things you are grateful for everyday (because it's so easy to take life for granted while things are happening so quickly. Small things like "I witnessed a beautiful sunset this evening" or "I had a lovely meal with my friends today" are often taken for granted. So, 5 minutes each day to think about 2 good things that happened that day and you'll realized how blessed you are!)</p><p><br /></p><p>8. Take some time to reminisce what has happened throughout the year and take some time to think about what goals you want to achieve next year following the new norm (trust me, it's harder than it seems but it's always nice to think about your goals or set your goals)</p><p><br /></p><p>9. Greet people with a smile because come on, it's the most wonderful time of the year (My personal mission has always been to make one person smile a day since 3 years ago. So why not do it this festive season?)</p><p><br /></p><p>10. Look back at your resolutions and see which one you can still achieve (for me, I wanted to read 10 books this year and I finally crossed that one out after reading 3 books last month)</p><p><br /></p><p>Happy December, everyone! Stay safe x</p>Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-59555471625611624912020-11-29T17:23:00.001+08:002020-11-29T17:23:35.251+08:002010 VS. 2020<p>Once upon a time, my blog used to be my everything. My one and only hobby was blogging. I'm actually talking about 10 years ago which was when I started this blog. I sort of fell out of touch with it these past 2 years. </p><p><br /></p><p>However, I have been reflecting on my life recently. I remember a time when blogging made me feel comfortable and happy. Hence, I've decided to revisit that happy place. So, here I am now. </p><p><br /></p><p>I'm not too sure if this makes sense to any of you but I feel like not much has happened in the past 10 years but at the same time, so many things have happened that changed me and shaped me into who I am today. </p><p><br /></p><p>Whilst reflecting and looking back on my life and the events that happened since 2010, I've come to realize 5 major things about myself and my life. To be really honest with you, even January 2020 seems like a distant memory - what more to say January 2010. But here we go.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAjn5G5G8mANukrHCv8mpx8VymuX6fNqqBZbrWjTo1e9Os9GTkmjAbTYD-E5WEo2xTJ151fHiN9Bzztr4AKr95IrrCrA_KeaMe-p_XDm3P9RdcDI9wcRBPrV_ZSLE2Hpd10cCxVWUTdyY1/s4896/DSC05929.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3672" data-original-width="4896" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAjn5G5G8mANukrHCv8mpx8VymuX6fNqqBZbrWjTo1e9Os9GTkmjAbTYD-E5WEo2xTJ151fHiN9Bzztr4AKr95IrrCrA_KeaMe-p_XDm3P9RdcDI9wcRBPrV_ZSLE2Hpd10cCxVWUTdyY1/s16000/DSC05929.JPG" height="550" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p><b>2010 (I was about to start college)</b></p><p>1) I thought all the friends I had then will last forever. I've managed to build a small "fan-base". I had countless groups of friends. Whatever my friends told me seemed to have more power over what my family told me. I was obsessed with having many friends (<i>just as a lot of teenagers out there, because the more friends you have, the more popular you are</i>)</p><p>2) I was dating my brother's best friend, who is now happily married, actually. I used to think that dating was essential in life and that if I didn't have someone who adored me and loved me, I'm a complete and utter failure. </p><p>3) I was helping mum out with business. I loved it when people would come up to us and asked us to choreograph some kind of dance performance. I would always pretend I was Britney Spears - singing and dancing. Secretly, I've always wanted to be in the entertainment industry. </p><p>4) Music's everything to me. I would listen to new songs on MTV all the time. I would blast music while driving. In college, I had headphones on most of the time because I just can't be bothered with anyone. </p><p>5) I had no idea what kind of future I would have. Everything was a blur. It was worse than a blur. I couldn't see anything. I felt scared most of the time because everyone around me seemed to have already planned what they wanted at what age and I was just a walking confusion, trying to exist and be someone my parents wanted me to be. </p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Fast forward to this year. Obviously, besides the age factor, I certainly didn't see a pandemic happening.</span></b></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtwKRgRMIUJS9O_GnTBoCJznsbrS20pPMmtn6VRPrnkiA4Siutsvb9jK0iLsK_HSKFuiK6jrPKLk2hhv3AjJ1ByrVRof8nWndgBt-N6Qw-exstaG2lEh1cS7rG_5Ss3mI1u-65SFBcDATJ/s4896/DSC05930.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3672" data-original-width="4896" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtwKRgRMIUJS9O_GnTBoCJznsbrS20pPMmtn6VRPrnkiA4Siutsvb9jK0iLsK_HSKFuiK6jrPKLk2hhv3AjJ1ByrVRof8nWndgBt-N6Qw-exstaG2lEh1cS7rG_5Ss3mI1u-65SFBcDATJ/s16000/DSC05930.JPG" height="550" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p><br /></p><p><b>2020 (embracing my late 20s)</b></p><p>1) My circle of friends have somehow shrunk immensely and I'm okay with that. I really do understand now when people say "<i>You only need a few close friends in your life and you'll be fine.</i>" I've managed to keep in contact with a few people from high school and some close friends since 10 years ago. I've made a couple of new friends along the way who are just the most amazing people ever. And my family means almost everything to me now. </p><p>2) I just got out of a turbulent relationship. I know now that sometimes, love alone is not enough. "I love you" can be said a thousand times in a day, but it's more of how someone makes you feel. I am happily single and I adore myself. In a way, I feel like I've gotten a tiny part of myself back.</p><p>3) Well, entertainment industry it is. Been on TV a few times, working in a radio station as a radio host, gone on stage to launch products, congratulated brides and grooms on their special days, speak on stage for a living. Wow. I sometimes can't even believe it myself. See, I am an MBA Finance graduate doing what I'm doing now. So, obviously, you don't always end up doing what you studied for in university and that is totally fine. </p><p>4) Music is still everything to me. I just get to do it for a living now which is amazing. I still have headphones on most of the time. See, some things don't change. </p><p>5) I can kind of see what I want for myself and I am working hard to achieve them. To be really honest, nobody really knows what the hell they are doing, me included. I'm still learning new things about myself everyday. But I've learned to live comfortably in my own skin. And even though my future is a blur, I don't feel scared anymore. I feel some form of excitement. Knowing the future would be boring because you already kind of know what to expect. So, I'm taking it as I go which is the amazing part.</p><p><br /></p><p>Do you see what I mean by <i>not much has happened but at the same time, I've grown into a different person?</i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p>Please take care and stay safe x</p>Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-26591311969778586732020-09-04T15:25:00.001+08:002020-09-04T15:25:17.707+08:00Food Review: OMBAK KITCHEN - Bangsar<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QRtnzLpYnm1fHmcNPibxRASNiOWL5dkI6d_LsVH6zrhj_EjxYkVDx0IlZsgRGGVDKAuOyXMYMKudLXaLx8gR5N_TjG070o5kaG7c3BFrQJmmYCs5wdJFgOW6xczA2fab5iMQq3abIKxv/s0/20200827_155610.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QRtnzLpYnm1fHmcNPibxRASNiOWL5dkI6d_LsVH6zrhj_EjxYkVDx0IlZsgRGGVDKAuOyXMYMKudLXaLx8gR5N_TjG070o5kaG7c3BFrQJmmYCs5wdJFgOW6xczA2fab5iMQq3abIKxv/s0/20200827_155610.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Ombak Kitchen is <b>The Best Seafood Restaurant in Bangsar</b> and <b>The Best Halal Seafood in Bangsar </b>as well. They genuinely serve up affordable seafood, fresh from the shores. This fun-filled family restaurant with the famous seafood boil concept originated from the state of Louisiana, USA. The ambiance and environment is just so welcoming.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDwsZt2VhE5YTDoJek2286ijYuyEXVfHB9M4opDE_lE3kIkHKrZu1CAAWmzgfmDerPZiA_UhzatE6GYx9qWHwP9SetqOgo3kAyUwcK03EkGtILyAP3WP_7W5la5iV4HupVCQJx02zsmPa/s0/20200827_144342.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDwsZt2VhE5YTDoJek2286ijYuyEXVfHB9M4opDE_lE3kIkHKrZu1CAAWmzgfmDerPZiA_UhzatE6GYx9qWHwP9SetqOgo3kAyUwcK03EkGtILyAP3WP_7W5la5iV4HupVCQJx02zsmPa/s0/20200827_144342.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">All the seafood served here is fresh and juicy. Everything you love from the sea will be poured onto a covered table. These Premium dishes include <b><i>Alaskan King Crab, Canadian Red Lobster, XL Live Premium USA Oyster and XL Live Mud Crab!</i></b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwEONEk29D9TqycheIWLD1xB5tEFKiHI25FBYLvNj1B2t9g7QkidO-I8V0D1yFOEvLME0sN0qz9lH7arLtr_1D9nIH5cVPZpQY_rZomPczGC3g3-kXlZYDi_VFWO-0qdbygKf8uM-3_Fll/s0/20200827_144013.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwEONEk29D9TqycheIWLD1xB5tEFKiHI25FBYLvNj1B2t9g7QkidO-I8V0D1yFOEvLME0sN0qz9lH7arLtr_1D9nIH5cVPZpQY_rZomPczGC3g3-kXlZYDi_VFWO-0qdbygKf8uM-3_Fll/s0/20200827_144013.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtpLXAA-8-RFGSgyfNATOFFUg_wOOuoxUd-yNQkStXAjg7xeqErWWlGQMvq1XSymrvyqNpbAN3NsgTpRXtLZNqjvRen8-aWAjU3EBOLqoxDLF9aLLg41rKTzsyrmKv28mJWNoR2gfVFDW/s0/20200827_144020.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtpLXAA-8-RFGSgyfNATOFFUg_wOOuoxUd-yNQkStXAjg7xeqErWWlGQMvq1XSymrvyqNpbAN3NsgTpRXtLZNqjvRen8-aWAjU3EBOLqoxDLF9aLLg41rKTzsyrmKv28mJWNoR2gfVFDW/s0/20200827_144020.jpg" /></a></div> </span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">These seafood are served with a variety of sauces such as the glorious Ombak Crazy Cajun sauce (kinda spicy but totally delicious!), buttermilk curry (my personal favourite!), cheesy zesty lemon, creamy tomyam, peranakan seri nyonya, and apple cilantro sauce.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3IQ8-TCXjTxQ38tC2_7YS_UrgvEIO6cQD84v4R-LHz8UjY52m9bzf4KckKVBx7AEB8xhrc3dnDdVpjPFp64l2qoC9-77_RNkfd6Gq1Q6a_UnAcYSAe6XN5uguslbBnddQ2pA20nfLVArj/s0/20200827_144800.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3IQ8-TCXjTxQ38tC2_7YS_UrgvEIO6cQD84v4R-LHz8UjY52m9bzf4KckKVBx7AEB8xhrc3dnDdVpjPFp64l2qoC9-77_RNkfd6Gq1Q6a_UnAcYSAe6XN5uguslbBnddQ2pA20nfLVArj/s0/20200827_144800.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp2nkj2NZR_eNH4cTBnWyVrwCQC2_Z6EJH64RIwVI9e42zu4iyNykERL4OlLNryb81m_6ClO_VsPDU-lMb2ldVJ9caSgl2Zsz0Vyp1q68-FgL1CfOileOEyIzluEdk3NLHrMA6fnKGz60h/s0/20200827_145729.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp2nkj2NZR_eNH4cTBnWyVrwCQC2_Z6EJH64RIwVI9e42zu4iyNykERL4OlLNryb81m_6ClO_VsPDU-lMb2ldVJ9caSgl2Zsz0Vyp1q68-FgL1CfOileOEyIzluEdk3NLHrMA6fnKGz60h/s0/20200827_145729.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTVPjCsvnvIz32rm5PHaenwB0T6XamRqyIUmmvXc0_3ARBj1_sYsdEDtgFbw0ZTzDgr_0WJ8lSYsXkf8sCOveHY29dY3eGlyZsQjSVvISD_iIiY-sCBsWWcoZXVGSYlPrYZBoFuHzT5tQ/s0/20200827_145742.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTVPjCsvnvIz32rm5PHaenwB0T6XamRqyIUmmvXc0_3ARBj1_sYsdEDtgFbw0ZTzDgr_0WJ8lSYsXkf8sCOveHY29dY3eGlyZsQjSVvISD_iIiY-sCBsWWcoZXVGSYlPrYZBoFuHzT5tQ/s0/20200827_145742.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Iu5Tl52inoObhrhbsXgL-9V5JRo0-dCRucTiOc9YONpDOaK4RLNLbrjKzfjcBu59FXAAXYfaHn9zpctN9oFGVxae2dq-7khWNdawTJAxYSLX9XaOYLJ4ayGbwAu54zFZAzvVeGGuYn2q/s0/20200827_145720.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Iu5Tl52inoObhrhbsXgL-9V5JRo0-dCRucTiOc9YONpDOaK4RLNLbrjKzfjcBu59FXAAXYfaHn9zpctN9oFGVxae2dq-7khWNdawTJAxYSLX9XaOYLJ4ayGbwAu54zFZAzvVeGGuYn2q/s0/20200827_145720.jpg" /></a></div></span></div><p>Here's a catch about Ombak Kitchen too! Conventional utensils are optional as diners are encouraged to indulge everything on the table using their clean hands for a holistic and extraordinary dining experience. It's all about getting your hands dirty which is why their tagline is <b>#pakaitanganjer</b> (use your hands only).</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIClIPoqQo7kQc548vcVmKJ5iprCn4UgWgis7kcxL0ii4_3N4w8hoTdM88knLICdGL8JOtR5SVwY5WyWngIA_axpKfHFSEV745Z1ocAk-Mjt3pvxLYpCKtyh4yhrohzRbQZB-ZzPMJOPTz/s0/20200827_150052.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIClIPoqQo7kQc548vcVmKJ5iprCn4UgWgis7kcxL0ii4_3N4w8hoTdM88knLICdGL8JOtR5SVwY5WyWngIA_axpKfHFSEV745Z1ocAk-Mjt3pvxLYpCKtyh4yhrohzRbQZB-ZzPMJOPTz/s0/20200827_150052.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>ENJOY THE VIDEO :)</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw7LeIYsOjZ2NUeYkqISl78IP_eRWzQBkVpRrIvHAG1HtDjfVD6znKbuH5JeaZV9Z4BYK14A-7YbSpfSCfk1g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-46224129898925390872020-05-13T17:17:00.000+08:002020-05-13T17:17:37.828+08:00YOU ARE ESSENTIAL<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuxwEeDUz_btElFkQbAGcQ0dBE4OenATu3uYB0WCGh2MyaC8hCB9I1olCcB_KXDLnqvgOs_hd2KxWoOSmpv8P98cgeKa0cySn5nvbBGUYPa1mBrlxmyAT2PFrKxprRJYmu29haJcjjP1vG/s1600/20190725_101903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuxwEeDUz_btElFkQbAGcQ0dBE4OenATu3uYB0WCGh2MyaC8hCB9I1olCcB_KXDLnqvgOs_hd2KxWoOSmpv8P98cgeKa0cySn5nvbBGUYPa1mBrlxmyAT2PFrKxprRJYmu29haJcjjP1vG/s1600/20190725_101903.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
As I sit down writing these words, millions of people around the world have become unemployed over the last 7 weeks - <i>that's math I can't even do.</i><br />
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It pains me a lot to see what's going on around the world. It hurts me to read news and articles relating to this topic. Honestly, everyone is affected by COVID19 in some ways, to a certain degree. Such heartache, anxiety... My heart goes out to everyone.<br />
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Along the way, a new sort of conversation began emerging in public discourse: <b>essential</b> and <b>non-essential</b> workers.<br />
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<i>Who is an essential worker? What are essential businesses? Which industries are essential and which are not?</i><br />
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Medical experts and government leaders have debated these phrases countless times around the world - often times arriving at drastically different conclusions.<br />
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Regardless of the end results, "essential" workers were allowed to continue, "non-essentials" were asked to stay at home - and if you're lucky - work from home.<br />
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What hurts me a lot is reading how many of the "non-essential" workers, ones who do not have the choice of working from home, have lost their livelihood.<br />
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Drastic pay cuts have been made, employees have been sacked, some businesses are shutting down because they cannot sustain themselves anymore, and the list goes on...<br />
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If you are one of them, if you are hurting right now, let me offer some thoughts.<br />
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First of all, if you are an essential worker and have been putting yourself out there for the society, thank you so much. From stocking shelves, driving trucks, delivering food, to being the first respondent, working tirelessly in hospitals and clinics, thank you for the incredibly hard work and extra hours you've been putting in ever since the temporary lockdowns began.<br />
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<b>BUT equally important, if your work or business has been classified as non-essential, please know that YOUR work is essential to us. In almost every case, your work is needed, your talent is appreciated, and your dedication to serving others is required for all of us. You are essential and I hope you are back to work soon.</b><br />
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<i>If you think the rush and the hoard for toilet paper was bad, wait till barbers and salons are open. Everyone will be busy scheduling a haircut or a hairdo at the same time.</i><br />
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<b>And lastly, please know that even though your work is deemed non-essential, your LIFE is not! YOU ARE ESSENTIAL TO SOMEBODY, EVERY SINGLE DAY.</b><br />
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So make the most of every opportunity to:<br />
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<b>- care for your health and well-being</b><br />
<b>- love your family/spouse/friends</b><br />
<b>- offer hope and love to everyone you see</b><br />
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<i>Live your life with intention and purpose</i> (not a Justin Bieber reference, thankyouverymuch)<br />
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<b>You are important, you are essential to someone. No one can ever take that away from you.</b><br />
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Be safe everyone xEls Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-85112796616252627182019-07-02T19:56:00.000+08:002019-07-02T19:56:36.915+08:002019 so far... I think I speak for a lot of people when I say this...<br />
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<i><b>The first half of 2019 has definitely been better than the whole of 2018. </b></i></div>
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Of course, I've gone through some rough patches over the past 6 months (<i>I mean, who hasn't?</i>) but I've become a much stronger person.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">*Disclaimer: It's going to be a lengthy post, so if you don't have the time to read or if you're not interested, kindly press the "x" button on the top right of your screen or close the tab. </span></b><br />
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I know in some of my previous posts, I said I wanted to share what I've been through and why I was feeling all those things at the time. Well, let me just "<i>quickly</i>" summarize it for all of you. It will explain why I stopped blogging, why I stopped sharing, and why I went MIA for a while.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrM48rNdRCrNbEm98RP3dFxgAWAkOGF-A23eY3n2TBkCh4rvoGdInMHF2NC0bbr0aKN6Y46Ls1gie1HFs_vPF78XhRMwo98ufmgyCgrMZS9F1zyjVVwtmL73NDU9I9mpqbTPD1Jqgb6eh/s1600/20190515_135205_002_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrM48rNdRCrNbEm98RP3dFxgAWAkOGF-A23eY3n2TBkCh4rvoGdInMHF2NC0bbr0aKN6Y46Ls1gie1HFs_vPF78XhRMwo98ufmgyCgrMZS9F1zyjVVwtmL73NDU9I9mpqbTPD1Jqgb6eh/s1600/20190515_135205_002_01.jpg" /></a></div>
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Let's start from last year. I asked 4 of my closest friends at the start of the year what their New Year's Resolutions were. 1 said she wanted to quit her job and move to another city to start a new job. 2 said she wanted to start hosting shows on TV again. 3 said she wanted to quit her job and settle down. 4 said she wanted to try out a holiday working-visa thing overseas.<br />
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Last September (2018), 1 moved to another city to start her job, 2 started hosting TV shows again, 3 got married and moved to another country, 4 got her working-visa approved and went overseas. I basically lost 4 of my closest friends in one damn month. They all got what they wanted while I was stagnant, not moving, not going anywhere, not progressing. NOTHING! I was nothing! I felt like NOTHING! I was shit. I was worse than shit.<br />
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Last October (2018), 2 people whom I thought were my friends betrayed me. Both have their own issues. Both were not good for me or my health. Both were selfish. So, I made the decision to not spend too much time with them. So, in a span of 2 months, I had lost 6 people who were close to me. And I felt like my life was going no where. <i>No motivation, no goals, constantly comparing myself to others, always thinking I'm not good enough, always thinking no one truly understands me... you name it. </i><br />
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On the first day of January (2019), I decided to not let whatever happened last year affect what I want to do this year. Surely enough, I started picking myself back up with the help of some NEW friends and the help of my family members. <i>Lots of talking, lots of seeing people for help, lots of meditating. </i><br />
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My "<b><i>new</i></b>" life started in May. I've been trying new things, I've been seeing new things, I've been setting a new mindset for everything.<br />
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Last month (June 2019), I got to meet the 4 of my closest friends (<i>yes, the ones I mentioned above</i>) and I got to have some deep and meaningful conversations with them. 1 is getting used to the new life over there but she's doing really well. 2 is struggling a bit (<i>I mean, seriously, who isn't struggling?</i>) but she's doing really well too. 3 is now pregnant and doing well. 4 is on vacation right now and she's doing good. I really am proud of all my friends.<br />
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But you know what's funny? As they were telling me how their lives were, yes, I felt super proud of them but I would never want to trade anything. And I realized some things too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9IMMBY_WZJKdBVyzzq-FjknVctIIU3M334qxTZuRHy51zbVsR95ez8s2o8c0fXPod2izsWjD3pRF6ZE1v7u9Sr5gYooAFC1Jh4eXuhw-NIemfn4xg2_E0ON8C3oIg-6N-kWRecm8X9f4k/s1600/20190515_135037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9IMMBY_WZJKdBVyzzq-FjknVctIIU3M334qxTZuRHy51zbVsR95ez8s2o8c0fXPod2izsWjD3pRF6ZE1v7u9Sr5gYooAFC1Jh4eXuhw-NIemfn4xg2_E0ON8C3oIg-6N-kWRecm8X9f4k/s1600/20190515_135037.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>1. I grew so much since last October</b><br />
<b>2. I have nothing to complain about. Sure, life throws me lemon once in a while but I make damn good lemonades </b><br />
<b>3. I was wasting my time comparing myself to them and to whatever I thought success was at the time</b><br />
<b>4. I don't want to have the life that they have</b><br />
<b>5. I learned how to walk in my own lane </b><br />
<b>6. All you need in your life is a few good and genuine people and you're set </b><br />
<b>7. Your future is always brighter than your past </b><br />
<b>8. Shit happens in life, move on </b><br />
<b>9. If you've worked hard, remind yourself that and reward yourself </b><br />
<b>10. Having deep and meaningful conversations is just as good as therapy</b><br />
<b>11. Nothing is ever as bad as it seems</b><br />
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So, if you're struggling right now, I promise you, <b>I swear to you</b>, it won't last. I was buried under 20 mega tonnes of shit last year and managed to get out of all that. So, just go through it because it will pass and you will be better. Just keep making amazing lemonades on the way and enjoy it.<br />
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And if ever you feel like comparing yourself to someone, compare the you right now to the you last year. You will see how far you've come. I promise you.<br />
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<b><i>Here's to another adventurous, weird, fun, different, crazy, wild, challenging, _____ (insert whatever words you want) second half of the year! Cheers!</i></b></div>
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<b><i>x</i></b></div>
Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-91166352776098429192019-05-30T19:25:00.000+08:002019-05-30T19:43:52.779+08:005 THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO THIS GAWAIWhenever it comes to Gawai celebration, most Sarawakians who celebrate this festival will normally look forward to 5 things.<br />
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1. The long holiday they get to take<br />
2. Getting to reunite with family members and old friends<br />
3. Various type of food to look forward to<br />
4. People who are of age, DRINKING of course<br />
5. Celebrating and forgetting the day and time for a few days<br />
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Each and every one of these points have their own factors. So, imagine this. We are happy about these 5 things. And in these 5 things, there are minor things to be happy about too. It's like a celebration on its own. Here's what I mean.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. The long holiday Sarawakians get to take</span></b><br />
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Normally, students will have about 1 week off from school, that means parents do not have to wake up extra early to send their children to school and some working adults would even take a couple of extra days off to celebrate<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. Getting to reunite with family members and old friends</span></b><br />
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As mentioned, since it's holiday time, children get to hang out with their friends. Meanwhile, if families are travelling back to their hometown, they get to meet up with their cousins and other family members they rarely have the chance to see. Also, it's a celebration when most working adults come back to their hometown to visit their friends and family<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. Various type of food to look forward to</span></b><br />
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I've been to many places, but I have to say, my grandmother cooks the best bamboo chicken in the world. And whenever I can, I would always help her out with the dish when I visit. But as mentioned, different parts of the country have different types of food. It's always nice to go back and indulge in some lovely dishes you've been craving for over a few months.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-_ZhvOkNkmitIG-xmkck_l0BeW29VKiWqCCz2zOFehmlc-jqJ8BTbwlW_Gjdh1vT2t8JhH6NyTR229OkrE6D0x-M83J1d9unT9gceMcvS2nOn9cl343dXR0nan2BBqneVneihxsTWiqe/s1600/DSC00683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-_ZhvOkNkmitIG-xmkck_l0BeW29VKiWqCCz2zOFehmlc-jqJ8BTbwlW_Gjdh1vT2t8JhH6NyTR229OkrE6D0x-M83J1d9unT9gceMcvS2nOn9cl343dXR0nan2BBqneVneihxsTWiqe/s1600/DSC00683.JPG" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. People who are of age, DRINKING of course</span></b><br />
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Drinking is always a way to get the mood going whether you just want to unwind and talk your stress away to a friend or a family member. Not only that, some of the greatest moments are created when everyone lightens up and communicate. Nevertheless, it is always important to drink responsibly.<br />
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However, we are all aware of illicit alcohol - especially during festive celebrations. Sure, many would say "Why not? It's cheaper!" but when you wake up the next day with a massive headache that feels like you've just been hit in the head with a hammer, it's really not worth it. So, the next time you are getting some beer to enjoy, make sure what you're drinking is legit!<br />
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How do you identify a legit <span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 18.6667px;">Heineken®, </span>Tiger, Guinness, Anchor, Apple Fox Cider, or Strongbow? Check out this easy 4-step identification process by Heineken Malaysia Berhad:<br />
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So, this Gawai holiday, or hereon out, in fact, please drink responsibly, know what you're consuming for the sake of your health, okay?<br />
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HEINEKEN Malaysia, is even a part of the drive to promote responsible consumption through its brands, its platform <b><u><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/drinksensiblyMY/" target="_blank">Drink Sensibly</a></span></u></b> and also in alliance with others.<br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">AND GUESS WHAT?!?!??! </span></b></i></div>
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*HEINEKEN Malaysia is also providing Grab vouchers worth RM10 during Gawai and Kaamatan in Sabah! Just use the Grab promo code <b>DrinkSensibly</b> to enjoy a RM10 discount on your Grab fare when travelling to and from your favourite party locations. The <b>DrinkSensibly</b> promo code is available for redemption in Sabah and Sarawak between 4pm to 4am until 2 June 2019.*<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5. Celebrating and forgetting the day and time for a few days </span></b><br />
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Of course, this mostly involves the working adults who are drinking. It is okay to celebrate till late night, heck, even late mornings, it is a holiday, after all, BUT remember to do it responsibly<br />
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<i>Happy Kaamatan and Happy Gawai! x</i></div>
Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-78330783419385827562019-05-06T18:32:00.000+08:002019-05-06T18:32:22.447+08:00Hello May <div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Holy shijmo! How are we already in the 5th month of 2019? Literally! </span></i></b></div>
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I guess it's true what they say. <b>Time flies when you're having fun.</b> And that's exactly how I've been living. Having fun, living life on the edge, hustling, playing.<br />
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This morning at work, my co-worker asked me what my plan was for this month, and I said "<i>April's gonna be fun</i>". He looked confused because he also seemed to think it was April.<br />
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<b>But I would rather be a "time flies" person than a "stuck in the sands of time" kind of person.</b><br />
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So much has happened within the past 4 months. My life really has been a roller coaster - challenging, rough, beautiful, amazing, beyond-what-I-would've-imagined.<br />
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First off, one thing I'm incredibly proud of, I've finally finished my first novel. And even if it's not going to be the best-seller, at least I know I've poured my heart and soul into it and that's the only thing that matters.<br />
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Second, I've experienced betrayal and heartbreak first-hand. Yes, obviously. I've ended a friendship. That's a long story for another day but basically, I'm just here to tell you that when someone says "<i>I'll always be here for you</i>", even if it's coming from a 50-year-old, <b>always trust ACTIONS instead of words</b> - unless of course if that person is one of your family members.<br />
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The friendship I've had with person has been amazing - <i>a roller coaster ride would be an understatement.</i> It's like you've known that person in a past life or something like that (<i>if you believe in that kind of thing</i>). But of course, I put my trust in the wrong person, thinking he is older and wiser, but that's really not the case. Do I regret knowing this person? <b>Absolutely.</b> Do I regret the experience? <b>No.</b> Because we were best friends at one point. He was someone I'd do almost anything for.<br />
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Again, I'm here to tell you that even though there are bad people in this world, people who mistreat you, you can always be the bigger person and let it go. Everything will be OK. Take it from me, someone who's literally been hurt over and over again by that same person.<br />
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Thirdly, I've had some of the most beautiful moments meeting people and giving talks. Definitely a shock when I was chosen to be one of the ambassadors for young women for a couple of programs. It definitely made me think about the choices I make and how I present myself to young women. I mean, no one wants someone who's constantly cussing to be an ambassador. So, I definitely took myself more seriously when it comes to influencing young people.<br />
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These are just <b>some</b> of the amazing things I've been through in the span of 4 months. But I finally took some time to reflect on my life over the weekend because I do feel like I've been more of a robot instead of a human being lately. So, here are the things I'm focusing on this month (<i>which I've already started</i>):<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1) Relax and take a break </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2) Focus more on my health (both physically and mentally)</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3) Read more (currently reading Chicken Soup for the Soul) </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4) Be wary of the people I let into my life</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5) Spend more time with friends and family </span></b><br />
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These are probably things that most people take for granted everyday. That's why I need to constantly remind myself what's important in life and what really makes me feel at peace.<br />
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<i>So, I hope your month will be as beautiful as your soul :) </i></div>
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<i>P/S: Sorry for the hiatus x </i></div>
Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-31198969108338895892019-02-01T19:41:00.000+08:002019-02-01T19:41:09.504+08:0028 THINGS TO DO IN FEBRUARY Happy February everyone! One month down, 11 more to go! But anyway, I hope January has been good to you. For me, so far so good.<br />
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February, as we all know, is the shortest month. So, if you have no idea what to do this month, how about trying some of these small, single tasks. In no particular order, here are 28 things I plan to do this month. </div>
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1. Sit in your favourite cafe <i>alone</i></div>
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2. Go for a nice walk</div>
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3. Visit a new cafe/restaurant </div>
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4. If/when stuck in an elevator with someone, ask the person "how are you?"</div>
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5. Talk to a stranger (not in a creepy way)</div>
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6. Read a book </div>
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7. Do a face mask </div>
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8. Write down how you feel in a journal </div>
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9. Learn a new dance/learn how to dance</div>
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10. No technologies for 24 hours</div>
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11. Eat a healthy bowl of salad </div>
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12. Learn a new recipe </div>
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13. Go to the cinema</div>
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14. Catch up with a friend<br />
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15. Cut down on sugar </div>
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16. Create a new playlist</div>
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17. Make someone smile/laugh</div>
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18. Give genuine compliments </div>
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19. Spring clean your closet </div>
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20. Write a letter to your future self </div>
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21. Wear something in your closet that you've never worn/hardly wear </div>
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22. Call/talk to your family members</div>
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23. Try out a new snack </div>
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24. Stretch </div>
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25. Go cafe hopping with a friend</div>
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26. Pamper yourself </div>
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27. Help someone in need</div>
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28. Visit/volunteer at an animal shelter </div>
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<b>28 days, let's get it. </b></div>
Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-41913282119903927072019-01-12T13:26:00.000+08:002019-01-12T13:26:35.190+08:00Realistic 2019 New Year's Resolutions I've always been a fan of reading what's on someone's resolution list (<i>not because I'm nosy.... well, maybe because I'm nosy</i>) because it inspires me a little more and sometimes, it gives me ideas and things I never really thought about achieving. So, as tacky as it is, I still quite like going through people's list but I don't really like creating my own.<br />
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I would normally do a post about "highlights of 2018" or a look back at the year but thinking of it, I'm just glad I made it through 2018 alive. 2018 for me was scattered - difficult, messy, unorganized, confusing, unattractive. But I do have some beautiful moments too, in terms of self-development and self-improvement.<br />
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Anyway, I've sat down and thought about some of the things I'd like to focus more on this year. A more realistic one, if I might add, because things like swearing less - <i>probably ain't f*cking happening any time soon</i>.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1) Concentrate on my health</span></b><br />
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Because goddammit, I'm going to hit 30 soon. F*ck!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2) Read more</span></b><br />
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Books, articles, blogs, magazines<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3) Work hard, play hard </span></b><br />
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I need to find the balance between the two. I'm still learning but I'll get there<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4) Spread positive vibes as much as I can </span></b><br />
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And also surround myself with good vibes whenever I can<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5) Follow the wave and go with the flow </span></b><br />
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In other words, I'm not going to take myself and life too seriously this year because it got me nowhere last 2 years<br />
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Of course I do have a few other personal goals of my own and I will use all my willpower to get them but I won't get disappointed if I don't achieve them because I know for a fact that I will give it my 101%.<br />
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<i>So, Happy 2019 everyone. Cheers </i></div>
Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-1507135035194757062019-01-09T17:48:00.000+08:002019-01-09T17:48:52.585+08:004 Places on My Travel Bucket List 2019 I've been reading a few travel bucket lists from various bloggers and if you have been following my blog for some time, you would know that "<b><i><u><a href="https://elsdines.blogspot.com/2017/12/5-places-on-my-2018-bucket-list.html" target="_blank">travel bucket list</a></u></i></b>" post is a tradition around this space :)<br />
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However, I don't know if I mentioned anything about this yet but last year, I made it a priority to travel every month as it was one of my New Year's resolutions. But towards the end of it, I didn't quite enjoy it anymore because it felt more like a chore than a vacation. So this year, travelling is not really a <b><i>MUST</i></b> for me. However, that doesn't mean that I'm not going to travel and go places.<br />
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Trust me, thinking of places to go and creating a bucket list gets me excited all the time. After all, no one should be in one spot for the rest of their lives. Places are meant to be visited, cities are meant to be seen, countries are meant to be traveled to.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1) Terengganu (Malaysia) </span></b><br />
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Although I love travelling away from my own country, I do feel like there are still a lot of places I'd like to visit locally. It also makes it more do-able for me. So, road trips, here I come.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2) Vietnam </span></b><br />
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Last year, I've only managed to visit this beautiful country once and I fell in love with the place and the food instantly (<i>well, the food mostly, not going to lie</i>). So, I will be returning to Vietnam for a few more visits in the coming months.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3) Hong Kong </span></b><br />
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It's been a while (<i>more like 20 years</i>) since I was here. It's time to create new memories.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4) Maldives </span></b><br />
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Because it's the Maldives!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>What's on your travel bucket list 2019? </b></i></div>
Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-57987748208825601332019-01-03T13:46:00.000+08:002019-01-03T13:46:10.669+08:00Goodbye 2018, Hello 2019<i>So, here it is. 2018 in a f*cking nutshell. </i><br />
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This year, I questioned myself the most. Not because of quarter-life crisis <i>(which, trust me, is a thing!</i>) and not because I'm living in the snowflake generation (<i>which, yes, is also a thing!</i>). I know for a fact that everyone <b>will go/have been through</b> this phase where all you do is question everything about yourself - <i>what you're doing, how you're feeling, why you're feeling the things you feel.</i> It's an ongoing process.<br />
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Most times, I felt like a lost soul walking on the streets. I felt dead inside most days yet I'm not even sure how I managed to pull myself back up and put myself back together. But here's the fact, <b>YOU JUST DO.</b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>No matter how bad things are in life, nothing is ever as bad as it seems. You will always be stronger than you think. </b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-mex4OtxvQVSyq1lzbuO3RRt_OqnALNgfghCFXpZWaE5zw3TApYyEnY21wqz6iUNOhbXjNSRLEjMVI7ZboWcvY0eNCAlaAeXVQm4bUMj9JDaiYdZK_oSJkKguxziP9WtYwIgbtEtiyJ8/s1600/DSC06144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-mex4OtxvQVSyq1lzbuO3RRt_OqnALNgfghCFXpZWaE5zw3TApYyEnY21wqz6iUNOhbXjNSRLEjMVI7ZboWcvY0eNCAlaAeXVQm4bUMj9JDaiYdZK_oSJkKguxziP9WtYwIgbtEtiyJ8/s1600/DSC06144.JPG" /></a></div>
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At the beginning of the year (2018), I wrote in my diary some of the things I'd like to achieve throughout the year. You could say it was a bit of a mixed bag when it came to determining my annual goals. And for the most part, I've achieved it. You see, this year I wanted to travel every single month. I don't know why I made that a priority but it was just something I really wanted to do at the beginning of the year. And so, I started planning and budgeting for this plan.<br />
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Of course, my other small goals were to prioritize my family and friends and my health which I can tick off my list. However, if you asked me if I've ticked off any "<b>BIG LIFE MILESTONES</b>", the answer is <b>NO</b>. <b><span style="font-size: large;">HELL TO THE NO.</span></b> One of my biggest resolutions this year is to publish my book, which I am far from doing.<br />
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Often, when I scroll through Instagram or social media, I wonder how much of it is true - the smiles, the posts. Don't get me wrong - social media platforms are great, I get inspired from looking through food and fitness posts, etc... It motivates me in a way. However, me - <i>being a human being</i> - I realized that I hit rock bottom back in September when I started comparing myself and my life to those of others. I don't think I've ever been in that position I was in in my entire 26 years of living.<br />
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It took me a whole month to crawl out of depression. And right now, honestly, I am proud of myself and proud to say I have survived this situation.<br />
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The amount of times I've ran to my parents and family members this year taught me one thing: <i>Family is a tricky thing. Appreciate them when you still have them. </i><br />
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The most difficult pill I had to swallow this year was learning how to pick myself back up and how to cope without the people whom I thought would be in my life for a long time. I had to realize that <b>you</b> have to do shit for <b>yourself</b> because the only person that will put <b>you</b> back on <b>your</b> two feet is <b>you</b>.<br />
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When people say life is a roller coaster, this year was definitely it for me. I started off strong in January and things fell apart in June. I got back up in July only to fall into a deeper hole in September. Now finally, I've learned to accept this term. Life is a goddamn f*cking roller coaster and it can be amazing. It all comes down to <b>you</b> and how <b>you</b> choose to see your battles and obstacles.<br />
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For 2019, I'm not going to make any major resolutions because f*ck that shit. I'm going to go with whatever flow there is and not take life too seriously. In all honesty, it's also because I haven't thought of any resolutions yet :P<br />
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<i>May all of us have a good year ahead! We're all strong people. We can go through anything. </i><br />
<i>Happy New Year x</i></div>
Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-21695392329051352402018-12-05T14:55:00.000+08:002018-12-05T14:55:08.030+08:00The Sad Truth About Adulting: Losing People <div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Again, I do not like the word adulting at all. Yet still, I find many of us using it more often these days - me, included. </i></b></div>
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The <b><i><u><a href="https://elsdines.blogspot.com/2018/06/the-sad-truth-about-adulting-friends.html" target="_blank">last</a></u></i></b> time I wrote about this, many people emailed me and told me that they could relate.<br />
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I wrote in my <b><i><u><a href="https://elsdines.blogspot.com/2018/12/its-most-wonderful-time-of-year.html" target="_blank">previous post</a></u></i></b>: one thing I would like to do this month is to look back at the year and count my blessings. Hence, this post.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6grZ1WYjngJP5AYarLDthuuwV3QdPpmgByBuO9_VtQ-Tsb_zpENE8fHIltii43YJniV9DZ4YgEbZubP1RvaIarg22JKmBuOF3AkamxY7PPcATmhHOTcpgmsqFFI9Calzr9RoiiPaq6Iis/s1600/IMG-20181019-WA0030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6grZ1WYjngJP5AYarLDthuuwV3QdPpmgByBuO9_VtQ-Tsb_zpENE8fHIltii43YJniV9DZ4YgEbZubP1RvaIarg22JKmBuOF3AkamxY7PPcATmhHOTcpgmsqFFI9Calzr9RoiiPaq6Iis/s1600/IMG-20181019-WA0030.jpg" /></a></div>
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You see, in life, no matter how much you love someone, you can't have them forever. Only the after life would tell if you will have forever with them (<i>if you even believe in the after life</i>). No matter how much you care for people, they will eventually leave because here's the harsh truth: everyone leaves, people change, nothing lasts, life goes on.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Here's my sad truth:</span></b><br />
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I don't have many friends in general (<i>absolutely everyone knows this and that's not even the sad part</i>). It's not that I hate making friends or meeting new people. It's just difficult to find someone who you can be your total self in front of and for people not to judge you and for them to feel the exact same way when they show you their true colours. For some weird reason, I am the one to normally get judged. I'm hardly the one who judge people because I kind of believe people are the way they are for a reason and nobody is perfect. That has always been instilled in my brain. So, no issues there.<br />
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This year, I've lost many many people. Not as in losing them to death or anything like that. Some losses are my decisions, some aren't.<br />
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<i>You see, as you mature, you see more, you experience more, you get hurt more, you do more, you basically "<b>adult</b>" more. You start to learn that people use people to get what they want. You start losing trust in people. You start being more cautious to who you talk to. And that's exactly why I don't have many friends. I'm not even ashamed to say that. In fact, some strangers I meet online sometimes turn out to be better people than people I know in real life. That's just a fact. No arguing there. </i><br />
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This year, I've been betrayed by one of my ex-colleagues whom I thought was my good friend. This year, 3 of my closest friends moved away to different countries. This year, I found out that 1 of my good friends was actually toxic. This year, I've been hurt by 2 people whom I loved.<br />
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It's crazy. I'm not even going to lie. <b>2018 = crazy.</b> But here I am. I cut toxic people out of my life. I really do not need negative people in my life because everything around me is already crazy enough. The world is crazy enough for me.<br />
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It was a difficult pill to swallow because I've always been the person who puts people first - close friends, especially.<br />
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It was a complete shock to the system when I was left almost alone back in September. I went into a short phase of depression but I want to thank my parents for hearing me and my problems out (<i><b>thanks mom</b></i>). I slowly learned to be comfortable with my own company. I slowly became happy without relying on friends and people. And I've been stronger ever since.<br />
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<b>Like I said, adulting is no easy task. In fact, it's a complete bitch. But that's the beauty of it. You learn, you fall, you get back up, you live. Your life is like the rate of your heartbeat - up and down. If it's a flat heartbeat you have, then you're obviously dead. [Note: Nothing is ever as bad as it seems!] </b><br />
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So, if you have a few close people who you can talk to and accept you for who you are, keep those people. You won't regret it. I promise.Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-24378875683593669002018-12-04T14:16:00.000+08:002018-12-04T14:16:04.543+08:00It's The Most Wonderful Time of the YearIt would be freaking awesome if I could say: "<i>Oh hey December, the only thing I want to do this month is to be festive and nothing else.</i>" I mean, I could say that and I do want to do that. But I feel like there are 3 types of people when it comes to the month of December.<br />
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<b>1. I want to not do anything except be festive and happy and listen to Christmas music (which is totally fine since I started listening to Christmas songs back in October, <i>guilty</i>) for 31 days. </b><br />
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<b>2. It's just another month. So, I don't really care if I'm working. </b><br />
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<b>3. People who are in between the two.</b><br />
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I think if I was still a kid, I'd be #1 because that's when kids have holidays or days off of school/uni. However, as of today, right now, an adult (<i>I hate this word because we all know that adults are just kids earning their own money for a living and not living off of their parents, duh</i>), I definitely fall in the 3rd category. I don't really mind working for the dollars but I also want some festive elements in the month.<br />
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It would be lovely if time could just stop and wait for us to finish our so-called "<i>one-month-festive-celebration</i>", but we all know that ain't possible.<br />
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This month, besides focusing on all the festivities, there are 5 more things I want to focus on:<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. Look back at the year and count my blessings</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. Make at least 3 people laugh every single day</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. Meet up with close friends and family</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. Not get carried away with sales, overspending and overeating </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5. Make gingerbread men and make my house smell like gingerbread </span></b><br />
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<i>With that said, I do hope we all end 2018 with a bang! </i></div>
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<i>x</i></div>
Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-91950574800698552362018-11-30T15:13:00.001+08:002018-11-30T15:13:12.755+08:00Things I've Learned from Every Trip in 2018<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Final day of November and then........ Christmas!!!! YAYYYYY!!! </b></div>
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Anyway, I did mentioned in a few of my previous <b><i><u><a href="https://elsdines.blogspot.com/2018/11/why-do-you-travel.html" target="_blank">posts</a></u></i></b> that I'll be spending Christmas at home this year instead of going away. <i>Yes, my ass is staying put.</i> However, I will not be doing vlogmas as I did it last year and found it really time-consuming. I couldn't really enjoy every moment properly. Also, I'm much busier this year. So, I've decided to just post a few Christmas videos instead of doing vlogmas :) </div>
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So, because I've made travelling a priority this year, I wanted to see what I can take away from each trip. And like I mentioned, I learned a lot from every trip I've been on - <i>be it about myself or about life.</i> I write down everything I was feeling at a particular moment and everything I've learned after each trip. I find it very refreshing to read my travel notebook which I carry around with me since last year. But anyway, here are a few things I've learned from each trip.<br />
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<b>Colombo, Sri Lanka - Dec 2017: Taught me how to be more grateful for what I have in life.</b></div>
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<b>Krabi, Thailand - Jan 2018: You can make things beautiful and you can see beauty in everything if you just open your mind.</b></div>
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<b>Hatyai, Thailand - Mar 2018: There is no such thing as old. You are never too old to do anything. </b></div>
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<b>Koh Lipe, Thailand - Apr 2018: Life can really be that simple. You just have to choose whether you like the simple life or the complicated life. </b></div>
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<b>Nha Trang, Vietnam - May 2018: There's so much to learn in life. People will never ever stop learning. </b></div>
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<b>Lombok, Indonesia - June 2018: Treat people how you want to be treated. Show kindness and respect wherever you leave your footprints. </b></div>
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<b>Ipoh, Malaysia - July 2018: Learn how to appreciate the simpler things in life. </b></div>
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<b>Sepang, Malaysia - July 2018: There are plenty of hidden gems in the world. Just like human beings, you just have to know where to look for those hidden gems. </b></div>
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<b>Langkawi, Malaysia - August 2018: Time alone, peace and serenity - these are some of the more important things in life. </b></div>
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<b>Siem Reap, Cambodia - Oct 2018: Do not take life too seriously. Happiness is a choice. You choose it. It's something that you can genuinely control. </b></div>
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<b>Penang, Malaysia - Nov 18: It's REALLY enough to have just 3 (a few) friends in your life who genuinely care for you and be there for you than having thousands of fake friends. </b></div>
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<i>2018 has honestly been a great travel year! x</i></div>
Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-1505882636643806062018-11-29T14:47:00.000+08:002018-11-29T14:47:50.531+08:00Why do You Travel? My close friends and family would know that ever since I was 12 years old, I started developing a fear of flying. <b><i>Shocker, right?</i></b> Considering I travel a lot.<br />
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<i>Whenever people ask me "<b>what's one of your biggest fears?</b>", the first thing that pops into my head would be "<b>fear of flying</b>". Don't even ask me how I started developing this fear because you won't even believe it.</i> </div>
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At the <b><i><u><a href="https://elsdines.blogspot.com/2018/01/2018-new-years-resolutions.html" target="_blank">beginning</a></u></i></b> of this year, I did tell myself I wanted to travel more - <i>every month, if I'm being precise</i>. This wasn't something I woke up to one day and decided to do. <b>No.</b> I did a couple of trips last year and became quite obsessed with it. When I was back in the UK, I didn't have any chance at all of travelling. My life was always work, study, uni, work, study, uni.<br />
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I first had my wanderlust experience when I went to Phuket with my best friend. See, I didn't like travelling at all because of my fear of flying. But last year, after the trip, I realized how much I was missing out on. I then quickly fell in love with the idea of travelling. So I did do a lot of budgeting towards the end of last year in order to plan for my trips this year.<br />
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Now, I'm not one of those people who want to travel because so and so have been there. I don't travel because I feel left out. <b>No.</b> I travel for a few reasons. I made it a mission to travel more this year for a few reasons.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. To conquer my fear of flying</span></b><br />
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If I'm being completely honest, it hasn't helped much. I still get the anxious feeling whenever I step into a plane. Whenever a plane shakes violently, many thoughts run through my head. I start remembering prayers from Sunday school. But I must say, the more I sit in a plane and travel, the more <i>routined</i> it becomes. And I sort of get immune to it. The plane shaking, the crying babies, different sorts of passengers you meet on every flight, etc... I am still afraid of flying but I'm immune to it and I won't let this fear stop me from travelling.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. To explore </span></b><br />
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Duh. Of course. However, I don't travel to expensive places, or else I would have been a broke ass bitch back in April. I know what I want before planning any trips. As much as it is dangerous being in a completely different country, it is also exciting - <i>especially when you explore and experience how the locals live.</i> You kind of get a taste of what it is being in someone else's shoes.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. To get inspiration</span></b><br />
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I find myself in a constant state of mind blocks. One thing that has really helped me refocus and recharge is definitely travelling. Sometimes, I feel like I'm not doing enough. Sometimes, I feel like I want more in life. Then, I go away. I see locals in other countries smiling and laughing doing the simplest things, doing what they love and that immediately lights my soul up. You get inspired by just sitting in a local coffee shop, people-watching. Inspirations come from anywhere and everywhere when your mind is open.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. Everything looks better when you're up in the sky</span></b><br />
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As much as I do not like flying, I have to admit this. Everytime I'm up in the air, I can't help but think: <i>everything looks much better from this altitude.</i> <b>"You're on top of the world" kind of feeling. </b>Something I can't quite explain. But you kind of realize how small the world is when you're in the air. The clouds, the sky, the weather, everything is the same except in a different country. Next time you're seated at a window seat, look out and you'll see what I mean. I don't know about you, but I could use the "<i><b>I'm on top of the world</b></i>" feeling once in a while.<br />
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<i>These are the main reasons why I made it a priority to travel more this year. Travelling is a wonderful thing. You learn different languages, cultures. You also learn a little bit more about yourself each trip. There a plenty of reasons why people travel. What are yours? x </i></div>
Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-42032367619859083572018-11-28T14:11:00.000+08:002018-11-28T14:11:26.019+08:00TOP 3 MOST MEMORABLE TRIPS IN 2018As I mentioned in my <b><i><u><a href="https://elsdines.blogspot.com/2018/11/top-5-beaches-ive-visited-in-2018.html" target="_blank">previous post</a></u></i></b>, I will not be travelling in the month of December because I'd like to slow it down and enjoy Christmas with my friends and family. So, today's post is another wrap up of my travels in 2018.<br />
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Everytime I travel, I don't really expect much from the trip. What I mean by this is that I like the element of surprise - <i>I don't plan what and when I want things to happen, I'd much rather explore places and be adventurous</i>. This is to avoid any form of disappointment.<br />
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Of course, I do do a couple of research of places I want to visit and try to avoid places that are dangerous. But you get what I mean. Even if I have a place in mind, if I don't get to visit that particular place, I wouldn't mind visiting other recommended places. It's all about the exploration, the experience and the adventure for me. Then of course there's the relaxation part and what kind of vibes I get from visiting different places.<br />
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So, here are 3 of my most memorable trips this year.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3: Nha Trang, Vietnam (May 2018)</span></b><br />
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This trip was an interesting experience for me. I had never been to Vietnam ever. I don't know a single Vietnamese word - <i>not even hello or thank you (because normally, you would know how to say most hellos and thank yous in different languages)</i>. I got off the plane not knowing anything about Vietnamese culture but that was the exciting part. My friend and I planned this trip 2 weeks beforehand. We had seen pictures of the beach in Nha Trang and thought we should make a visit before it becomes commercialized.<br />
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Everything is so different over there. People are friendly, the food is amazing, in fact, I think I fell in love with Vietnamese cuisine after this trip.<br />
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The beach was amazing. I remember my friend falling asleep after 15 minutes of tanning. I was reading a book and soaking in every second of being there. We were only there for 3 days but it was great. I'm definitely going back to Vietnam for another visit.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2: Lombok, Indonesia (June 2018)</span></b><br />
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I remember this being an impromptu trip. My uncle decided to fly in from Australia because he had extra time off and we both decided on Lombok immediately. First of all, we booked this wonderful AirBnB villa and the staffs were so friendly it made a good first impression.<br />
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One thing I loved about this trip is of course, the beaches. I think we got to visit 2-3 different beaches. I also remember talking to my uncle about my life and all. It was a nice, relaxing getaway filled with positive vibes. I remember coming back from the trip feeling recharged and ready to take on the world.<br />
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I also enjoyed the fact that everywhere was walking distance. I got to experience one of the most beautiful views I will ever see and also had the pleasure of making friends with the locals over there. I will definitely come back to Lombok for another visit. It's honestly one of the most beautiful places I've ever visited.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1: Penang, Malaysia (Nov 2018) </span></b><br />
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I have been to many places this year but I do feel like no matter where you go, it's the company that counts. This month, I decided to spend my birthday with 2 of my closest friends in Penang. If I'm being completely honest, being in Penang did not even feel like being in Malaysia. It felt like I was in another different country. I absolutely loved that feeling.<br />
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Of course, like I said, I think what made this trip so special is because of the people around me. I got to experience loads of things actually: <i>first time going to an archery session, first time jet-skiing, first time driving in a place I don't know</i>. It was an amazing experience. You can check the vlog out :)<br />
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<br />Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-13652197054125346222018-11-27T14:21:00.000+08:002018-11-27T14:21:31.814+08:00TOP 5 BEACHES I'VE VISITED IN 2018You all know that I'm an absolute sucker for beaches. I've mentioned it many times, in fact. The beach is one of my <b><i><u><a href="https://elsdines.blogspot.com/2017/10/happy-place-beach.html" target="_blank">happy places</a></u></i></b>.<br />
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<b>A couple of days ago, I was thinking about how fortunate I am to have the opportunity to visit several beaches across various countries this year. </b></div>
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I'm not one of those people that would like to visit every beach there ever is in the world, but I love myself a good beach. And by good beach, I mean fine sands, clean waters, not-too-crowded, a nice little spot to read a book and tan. I'm not too fussed about sea activities. I much prefer to lay down and enjoy the sound of the waves instead of participate in those activities. However, I do not mind the occasional snorkeling. It's interesting as heck.<br />
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I will not be travelling in December as I love staying in for Christmas. It's something I realized about myself these few years. I used to love going away for Christmas but now, I love staying home, being with a few close friends and family, making gingerbread men (<i>if I have time, of course</i>), watch Christmas films, etc... I mean, that's just one of the best things ever.<br />
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So, I'm just going to wrap up my travels for 2018, starting with the top 5 beaches I've seen this year.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5: Krabi, Thailand</span></b><br />
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My friend and I went to Maya Bay and it was just amazing. I mean, come on, "The Beach" by Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed there! It was beautiful and all, however, one thing I did not enjoy was how crowded it was. It was so difficult to find a spot to sit and relax.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4: Hatyai, Thailand</span></b><br />
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Again, my friend and I visited Thailand and we found this lovely beach called "Samila Beach". It's probably an hour's drive from Hatyai itself but totally worth it. This was much emptier but it's because it's not as commercialized. We practically owned a part of the beach whilst we were there.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3: Koh Lipe, Thailand </span></b><br />
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Back in April, I visited this island during Easter holidays. It's a really small island and frankly, quite crowded. I <i>personally</i> would not go back there for anything apart from the beach and the chilled vibes in the chalet. However, the beach was just crystal clear. Absolutely spectacular.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2: Langkawi, Malaysia </span></b><br />
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I am quite surprised. I was going through my pictures and re-living some memories and Langkawi beach definitely belong in second place. First, it's clean. Second, it's not crowded. Third, it has one of the most amazing sunsets I've ever seen.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1: Lombok, Indonesia </span></b><br />
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As much as I love Thailand, Lombok beach was definitely <b>the</b> most amazing one I've visited this year. The beaches met all of my standards. Of course, it's unfortunate with all the earthquakes that happened a few months ago but I will 100% go back to Lombok for another visit.<br />
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<br />Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-47568340900549515702018-11-23T13:17:00.000+08:002018-11-23T13:17:38.629+08:00Staycation Weekend (Ibis KLCC) <div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">With the holiday seasons right around the corner, we can often find 5 types of people. </span></b></div>
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<i>1) People who have already booked their family trips/trips months in advance.</i><br />
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<i>2) People who want to travel for the holidays but have no idea where to go or still planning where to go. </i><br />
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<i>3) People who want to stay put at home and not go anywhere at all.</i><br />
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<i>4) People who want to relax out of their homes but do not want to travel far. </i><br />
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<i>5) People who have no idea what to do during the holiday seasons. </i><br />
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I think I will admit it right now - <i><b>I'm NEVER in the 1st category.</b></i> I constantly find myself in between 2-4. I love travelling and all, but sometimes, I just want to relax in a place that feels like my home yet not so far away from town or my own home.<br />
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There are plenty of options nowadays with things like Airbnbs, serviced apartments, villas, etc...<br />
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Last weekend, I had the opportunity to have a lovely staycation at <b><i><u><a href="https://www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-8732-ibis-kuala-lumpur-city-centre-opening-september-2018/index.shtml" target="_blank">Ibis KLCC</a></u></i></b> before my birthday. I knew I was going to be busy, so I just wanted a little relaxation time for myself before a hectic week ahead. So, here's a fun fact for you:<br />
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<b>Ibis KLCC is the second biggest Ibis in the world and the biggest in Asia Pacific. It's within a 5-minute walking distance from major tourist attractions like KLCC twin towers, KL aquarium, Suria shopping mall, etc... It's basically in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. </b><br />
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I was very impressed with their facilities and most of all, the rooms. It's cozy just like home.<br />
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Pool with a view</div>
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One of the best massages I've ever had, hands down!</div>
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Business area</div>
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Not to mention the local delights they offer.<br />
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So, if you are in between categories 2-5, going on a staycation is perfect.<br />
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<b>Here's a vlog from the staycation :)</b><br />
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<br />Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-19944663425105197092018-11-09T12:53:00.000+08:002018-11-09T12:53:35.131+08:002018 vs 2008A couple of days ago, I was reminded that I'm going to be a year older this coming Sunday. You see, as I mature, parties, cakes and candles are not really my priorities anymore. When I was 17, I needed to have at least 2 birthday parties - <i>one with close friends and one with my family</i>, but now, a simple birthday greeting from people is really enough. Of course, a nice and easy birthday meal would be great but definitely not necessary. You get what I mean, right?<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">So, 10 years have passed. What has happened throughout the years? </span></b></div>
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<i>See, here's the thing about being human - we often choose to remember the great and wonderful memories, whereas the dark and scary ones are often left behind. We remember them but we just choose not to talk about it. </i></div>
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To say that nothing much has changed within these 10 years is somewhat true yet untrue. I know. It probably makes no sense, but hear me out. </div>
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I am the same in terms of my stamina. In fact, I think my stamina has gotten better over the years. My appearance remains unchanged - some people even think I look better now compared to 5 years ago. I wish I was "<i>the curious case of Benjamin Button</i>" where I get younger every year. But to be honest, I do not care much about how "young" I look because age is just a number. You're capable of anything and everything, so don't ever let age be a factor as to why you cannot do the things you want to. Overall, I haven't changed much outside. </div>
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<b>But inside, I've grown so much.</b></div>
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My thinking have changed so much even from last year. Sometimes, I feel like I'm a whole different person from 10 years ago. I feel like I look the same but someone else has taken over this body and mind. There are of course, some things I'd wish I'd tell my younger self, some things I'd wish I'd never done/thought, things I'd wish I'd done differently. </div>
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A couple of weeks ago, I was given a very useful piece of advice. One that I would carry until my last breath.</div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">"The only person you should be comparing yourself to is the you 10 years ago"</span></b></i></div>
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Hence, this post. </div>
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10 years have passed. So many things have happened. </div>
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- I've graduated from university with a masters degree - something I never ever thought would happen. My dreams 10 years ago are somewhat different. I thought I would marry and settle down at 25. I thought I would have my own house by 26. I never thought I would spend 5 years abroad - <i>best 5 years of my carefree life.</i> I will never forget that part of my life - the friends, the experience, the culture. </div>
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-When I was 20, I thought I was an adult and that I know almost everything. Today, at 27, I can safely say that I'm still learning the process of being an adult. I'm learning every single day. How I think and how I do things have definitely changed. I like how I am now but of course, like everyone and anyone else, I would like to be better for my future self. </div>
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- However, my dreams and I are somewhat same from 10 years ago in a sense that I've always wanted to entertain people. Even if that means making myself look stupid to make people laugh or smile. When I was younger, I've always wanted to be an actress. I think that dream started when I was in primary school when Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone came out. A little later on, I wanted to be a writer after reading more books. I was/am always fascinated by writings and words because no two people will ever imagine things exactly the same way when it comes to books. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Here I am, 10 years later. </span></b></div>
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<i>A radio announcer, a part time writer, a part time entertainer (if that's what you want to call it)</i></div>
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I wouldn't say I was born into this path but it's always something I've wanted since I could think for myself. To think what, who and where I'll be in the next 10 years is scary. So all I can do now is ask 17-year-old me how I feel. Here it is:</div>
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<b>1) I'm proud of who and what you've become. You are still stubborn at times but at least you listen to people now and you don't think you're all that. I'm happy you've found joy in listening to people's stories even if it's fabricated. </b></div>
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<b>2) I'm proud of how brave you've become. You've always hated presentations and you were always shy when it comes to talking in front of crowds but look where you are now! I know you will be braver in the future but you've done well. </b></div>
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<b>3) I'm happy that you still keep your values and stand up for what you believe in. I'm happy that you're in a good place with your family. I'm happy that you're not the type of person who would abandon your family just because you need to hustle and make money. I know you've tried your hardest, so well done. </b></div>
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<b>4) I'm proud of you for overcoming your fear of being lonely. You've been through a lot these 10 years - starting your life from scratch twice, especially these 2 years. You didn't have any friends to rely on but you fought and you're still fighting for yourself. It's OK to ask for help sometimes but I can't believe you've dealt with your pain and sufferings alone. For that, you need to give yourself a pat on the back. </b></div>
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<b>5) I'm glad that you still keep the child-like side of you alive. Please always keep that up. </b></div>
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<i>You've grown. I know you'll always try to be better and try your hardest to help people, so I'll see you in 2028. Make me proud! :) x </i></div>
Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-28700638015302308242018-10-23T21:39:00.000+08:002018-10-23T21:39:34.474+08:00Your Siem Reap Travel Guide (What To Do)It was my first time visiting Siem Reap, Cambodia. A few of my friends have already been there and they did tell me it's a <b>MUST</b> visit if temples and ruins are of interests. Now. if you ask me, in my honest opinion, Siem Reap wasn't too big of a city. The airport is literally 15 minutes away from the city via Tuk-Tuk and everywhere else is walking distance - <i>that is if you like walking under the hot sun. </i><br />
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I was only there for 4 days but I did manage to cross off all the things and places I had in mind. There wasn't a lot of planning done for this trip because it's only 4 days and it was going to be a relaxing holiday with a bit of exploration. But anyway, here are a couple of things I can share with you based on my trip to Siem Reap.<br />
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Everything (<i>or most things</i>) are in U.S. dollars. So, just to be safe, exchange dollars instead of Khmer (dollars?). Some things in Cambodia are reasonably cheap. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>- THINGS THAT ARE MOST WORTH IT IN SIEM REAP (A MUST!) - </i></span></b></div>
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<i>$4 massage for 60 minutes. It's even cheaper than Thailand or Bali! Hence, I didn't mind going for a massage everyday while I was there. </i><br />
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<i>$1/$2 Avocado Shake</i></div>
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<i>$0.50 Beer. I've never been to a country where the beers are cheaper than water. </i></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">- FOOD - </span></i></b><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></i>
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></i>
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">- PLACES TO VISIT - </span></b></i><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></i>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Ta Prohm (where Tomb Raider was filmed)</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Bayon</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Angkor Wat</span></i></div>
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P/S: I also got to try out scorpions. Here's a little vlog for you :) </div>
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<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vqu6K-9tut8" width="560"></iframe></div>
Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-83574750504807150882018-10-22T21:30:00.000+08:002018-10-22T21:30:14.447+08:00Where I Stayed in Siem ReapCambodia has been on my travel bucket list for quite some time now. Just because a couple of my friends told me that the hotel services are amazing. And I completely agree after this trip. Normally, you would have to pay for transportation from the airport to the place you're staying but apparently, most hotels and villas offer <b>free</b> shuttle services, and that's one of the reasons why it's so amazing.<br />
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Initially, I wanted to visit Sihanoukville, which is a small part of Cambodia where there's a beach because if you know me by now, you would know that I'm an absolute sucker for beaches. But Siem Reap was an exception. I mean, come on, Tomb Raider was filmed there, for God's sake.<br />
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So, Siem Reap it was. And instead of staying in a hotel, my brother and I decided to go for an AirBnB, in this case, sort of like a villa.<br />
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<b><i>Isann Villa, Siem Reap.</i></b><br />
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The rooms were so spacious and this whole area is away from the city. It is quite secluded so if you fancy a quiet place, this is definitely it. We basically had one whole part of the villa to ourselves which included the kitchen and everything. </div>
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Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-9981079938791685392018-10-05T14:56:00.000+08:002018-10-05T14:56:30.150+08:00Hello October Although it is 5 days in to the new month, I still wanted to start the month with this little post.<br />
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<b>Where do I even begin? </b><br />
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<i><b>Phew. </b></i></div>
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September was one hell of a month for me. I know I say this a lot but September was possibly my best and worst month altogether. In terms of career, it was amazing. I got to engage with loads more people, meet new clients, expose myself more to outside gigs, hung out with people in my field of work. I've learned a lot from different people last month.<br />
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Besides that, I also got to meet up with my close friends and family who got me out of my rut. Sometimes, when you feel like you can't tell anyone anything, turning to your family and friends does help. Even if you don't tell them the full story, they will still listen and try to understand (e.g. a little story in my previous <i><b><u><a href="http://elsdines.blogspot.com/2018/09/habits-that-steal-your-happiness.html" target="_blank">post</a></u></b></i>).<br />
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What really screwed me over last month was the fact that I was putting so much pressure on myself, which was completely unnecessary. I admit, I worried way too much. I compared myself way too much. Nothing was making me happy. I felt like a loser, a failure, when I saw all my friends around me evolving. I didn't tell anyone about the state I was in but I wasn't able to sleep at all most nights.<br />
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I had the most migraines I've ever had in my entire life in September. It was almost scary. I thought there was something wrong with me. I had been eating alright, exercising alright. But the stress couldn't go away and I couldn't sleep. See, in <b>ONE</b> month, I had to say goodbye to 4 of my closest friends, which was not easy. <i>Changes and goodbyes are never easy.</i> I don't like it. I hate it.<br />
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My mental state was already giving me very bad signals. In fact, my mental health deteriorated throughout the month. I was battling demons in my own head - created by myself. And that confused me so much. I was happy keeping myself busy, I felt the rush, but why did I feel like I was dead inside?<br />
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Towards the end of the month, I realized I wasn't doing anything that I love. I didn't pick up my camera, I didn't film at all, I didn't blog (<i>I wrote a couple of stories here and there but I was preoccupied with some other things that were going on in my life, i.e. comparing myself to others</i>).<br />
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It's like, everything is changing all of the sudden except me. I couldn't accept any of it. And on top of that, the partner that I work with on radio got into a car accident and scared me half to death when I found out he was injured and hospitalized. I wasn't ready for any of this. I'm still not! But thank God he recovered.<br />
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Needless to say, it was a very painful month for me. Lots and lots of tears shed, cutting cords with people who wasn't good for me anymore, battling some form of depression. Honestly, I am still picking myself up but I'm doing it with no tears. Pain really makes you become stronger. When you decide to be honest with yourself and open your eyes and heart, you feel the pain. And that's what will make you stronger eventually. I haven't healed completely, don't know when I will heal but I'm taking good care of myself lately.<br />
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So, here are a couple of things I'm going to emphasize on this month:<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. Chill and take care of my mental health </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. Embrace change. Look it in the eye and accept it</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. Focus A LOT on myself </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. Rest more </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5. Not take things too seriously and just have fun with life </span></b><br />
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Because at the end of the day, life goes on. You're the only person that can truly make yourself happy. Life is short, do things that make you laugh and smile everyday. And just remember, we're all human beings. We feel sadness, pain, happiness...etc... It doesn't matter if you're Selena Gomez or Chris Evans. They're human as well, as far as I'm concerned. You're no different from them. So, don't be blinded by things or clouded by your own thoughts.<br />
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<i><b>You do you. And you be happy! </b></i><br />
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<i><b>Happy October, everyone. </b></i>Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1890532731946637730.post-25318747308590537782018-09-12T15:09:00.002+08:002018-09-12T15:09:34.320+08:00Habits That Steal Your Happiness: Comparisons I was brought up in a very comparative family. In primary school, I would always be top 3 in class. I was instructed to wow crowds when performing my piano recitals. And the saddest bit, I was reminded that I'm not skinny and pretty enough, <i>every single day</i>, when I was growing up.<br />
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Over the years, I did understand how it is beneficial to have a bit of healthy competition. But only as of late, I understood that <b><i>there is a huge difference between comparing and competing.</i></b> When you compete for something, you're expecting something at the end - <i>a trophy, a medal, money, etc. </i>- to win or to lose. When you compare, you're putting things in your own head because there's nothing at the end of the road.<br />
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As we mature, it's natural that we compare ourselves to others. "<i>Oh, he's got a bigger house.</i>" "<i>My goodness, she's owns 5 cars.</i>" "<i>Wow. Look at her diamond ring!</i>" "<i>She's got an amazing body.</i>" "<i>He looks younger each day. Wonder what's his trick.</i>" And most of those sentences end up like this "<i><b>Why can't I be more like him/her?</b></i>" And that's when you're screwed.<br />
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See, this year, a lot of my friends are evolving in their careers, moving to a different country/city, engaged, married, having kids, the whole nine yards, basically. And here I am, having a glass of wine, thinking of what I'm going to make for dinner tonight.<br />
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<i>However, over the weekend, I was out with one of my best friends. We basically met when we were 5 and have been friends ever since. Of course, there were fights and arguments along the years (no friendship is perfect) but look where we are now. </i><br />
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So, I was telling her about how stagnant I feel in life right now. How most of my friends are either starting their own family or evolving in some ways in their careers. See, I've got tonnes of friends, but they're all scattered across the globe. Friends in the U.K are buying houses, being aunts and uncles; friends in India are CEOs of a huge ass company; friends here who are moving away, travelling around the world, being kick ass entrepreneurs.<br />
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At this point, I was already comparing myself with the people around me. Don't get me wrong, I'm super proud and happy of where all my friends are right now in their lives, but I somehow feel like I'm going nowhere. And this feeling has been dragging since the beginning of the year.<br />
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After talking (<i>or shall I say complaining. Sorry for her ears, bless her</i>) for almost an hour, she said something to me, which I'll probably remember for a very long time.<br />
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<b>"This is not the Els I know. And you've been comparing yourself so much to other people for such a long time. You don't even realize how much you've done. Instead of appreciating every single step you've achieved, you've compared yourself to people who are achieving big things. Why?" </b><br />
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I'm glad she said all those things I didn't want to hear/was not willing to hear, because today, I feel so much better. I mean, I will never truly know who the real Els is, but even though I don't really know who I am, I do know who I want to be in the future.<br />
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<b><i>So here's my little thought for you:</i></b><br />
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Don't listen when the world tells you that you're "too old" to try something new, or that it's "too late" for you to do something incredible with your life or even make a small change. Regardless of where you find yourself at the moment, remember that there are still so many beautiful moments ahead.<br />
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Comparisons add no value to your life. Instead, when you see someone doing something you've always dreamed of, or achieving goals similar to yours, think of it as a proof. <b>Proof</b>, that it can be done. Let that inspire you instead of discourage you!Els Dineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07799786454164390985noreply@blogger.com0