I should be ashamed that my domain is here solely for me to blog at the start of each year. But the fact that I just paid to renew it 2 days before expiry (I previously made the decision of saving on renewal fees since I don’t blog) obviously shows my lack of remorse and repentance.
So hello, everyone! (echoes)
Welcome to the annual event of exercising the power of hindsight and the start of another cycle.
On starting a new hobby
I started vlogging at the start of the year. I wanted to document weekly, and wished for 52 videos to look back at the end of the year.
Vlogging was a really fun; from the shooting to editing. They say that you should be living life instead of trying to document everything… Every time I re-watch a video, I’m reminded of inside jokes and the little details that I may have forgotten. Like the time we gave Adam an Adam-face cake, and the other time we turned Fauzi punk/emo. It’s double the experience!
It’s a pity the camera did not last (only less than a year old and it was giving me so many SD card compatibility issues!) and I’ve only made it to Week 18 of 52. To make things worse, I lost a month worth of videos when my 7yo iMac died on me. Thanks, Mr iMac, we had a good run.
Do I want to invest in a new video camera to continue my vlogs? Well, yes, if the opportunity presents itself.
On growing another hobby
Went to a DIY terrarium spot in a fish shop with Mer, where we attempted making our terrariums. We made a huge mess instead.
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Couple of months later, I attended a cheap terrarium workshop by InOut and made my first moss terrarium. Their workshop was very affordable (compared to others in the market) and it helped to have guidance. I don’t believe I have green fingers now, but it’s a great feeling to be close to nature.
I’ve also gotten more cacti over this year, and even gave a try at propagation. Thanks, YouTube! Not always successful, but that’s how we learn, right?
I wish I have a proper space for my little cacti garden, but for now, I’ll make-do with my window ledge.
On firsts
Visited a gun range in Bangkok, where I fired a gun for the first time. I’ve always thought it would be a cool experience, and I would considered it so, but truth is, I had no idea what I was shooting at. Worthy mentions: I managed to get headshots somehow.
Ate my very first raw oyster at the Sydney Fish Market. I’ve never dared to because of a particular Mr Bean episode… what a silly reason. I’ve been missing out for years! I can’t believe how amazing it tastes. Also, I’ve set my standards for oysters way too high.
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Had my first floating experience on my birthday at Palm Avenue Float Club. Wasn’t like what I imagined, but I really wish to keep at it and see if my mind and body changes with enough floats. If only it isn’t so far…
On people & relationships
Snapped at some people because I was sick of keeping quiet. I can’t say I’m the best communicator with some people and I probably have a lot to work on myself. Step one, though: Setting my boundaries. #ISFJproblems
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I also got back in touch with an old good friend, after a whole decade! It was very awkward in my mind initially, but we’ve managed to get pass it and bonded quickly. Silly to think that we let so many years gone by us. But that’s how life works, isn’t it? You don’t always orbit around each other consistently. Sometimes you get close enough to recreate the sparks. I’m very thankful she’s back in my life.
At the mid of last year, I made a tough decision to walk away from a 3-year relationship. Even though we were close to settling down, I felt that our foundations weren’t right. Marriage is more than a BTO, and a relationship definitely requires 2 people to be aligned and should help each other grow. It wasn’t a hostile breakup (to me), but it was sad to know that even being close to someone doesn’t keep you from being so far apart. I couldn’t stay because it wouldn’t have been right for me.
Shortly after, I promoted a long-time friend to boyfriend 😂 Terrifying thought at first- What if it doesn’t work out? There’s no turning back! It’s been almost half a year – it may be the oxytocins talking – but every day it feels like I’m living a dream. He teaches me to fear less and try more. Great reminder for someone with a fixed mindset like me, even though it gets difficult to overcome my own barrier at times. What’s the point of living if you’re living in fear?
On money
I have slipped behind on my budgeting. Not a very smart move, so I guess if I were to have a resolution for 2016, it will be to be more disciplined when it comes to managing my money. Shouldn’t be an excuse now that YNAB has launched an all-device friendly version of their app!
On that note, I’ve also considered embracing the minimalist lifestyle (inspired by Cait and Marie Kondo). It’s a big thing, so I haven’t begun on anything yet. Still trying to work out on the specifics, so I know how to get to my goal. And also, to figure out what my ultimate goal is. The trickiest thing is to decide on how to cope with my eating out.
On reading
In 2014, I signed up for Goodreads’ reading challenge and fell short (4 books out of 12). So in 2015, I set a very humble target of 6 books for myself, and I’m proud to say that I’ve exceeded (total of 13 books read)! (Favourite reads include this, this and this.) I’ve decided to man up for my challenge this year, and settled on the goal of 12 books. It can be daunting to have a ‘big’ goal to reach, but that shouldn’t stop you from giving it all you’ve got. I’m lucky to have received many books for Christmas, so my reading list for 2016 is all set! We’ll check back next year this time to see how I’ve fared ;)
On dreaming
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Over a weekend in November, I threw an idea to Renie that we should do a period box subscription service. It’s been nearly 2 months since, and we’re doing our soft launch in a weekish! I have so many ideas churning, and it’s been fun exploring more than only design aspect. Sure, it’s scary when I think of results… Otherwise, the business idea fits with what I love to do – gifting! (Thanks Swapbot.) I have no big goals for the business, but I wish to at least keep us going for a year.
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2015 has been awesome. Despite some challenges, I’ve tried to keep my head in place and explored more. 2016 looks hopeful :)
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