Elizabeth Tai

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  • August 2022: Fostering a cat and a career transition

    August 2022: Fostering a cat and a career transition

    When a friend approached me to shelter a scrawny, tuxedo cat, I couldn’t say no. I didn’t want him to end back on the street. I named him “Uncle” after a conversation with another friend who kept calling him an “uncle”.

    I quickly realised I bit off more than I could chew. Uncle was a senior cat with many health problems. He was very malnourished, too thin, and had a very sensitive tummy. He had diarrhea almost every day.

    But he had a sweet, sweet personality. When he first arrived, he would not sleep inside. He’d sleep outside on the balcony, enjoying the sun, making cookies on the wooden floor. Although he had little energy at first, he quickly became fascinated with the Cat TV I put on for him, watching with rapt attention the giant sparrows and robins bouncing on the TV screen, once even hopping onto the TV cabinet to catch a few of them. He quickly became disappointed, however, after checking behind the TV to see if the birds were there. What a smart boy — he quickly figured out that they weren’t real and lost interest. Aww.

    He loved sleeping in that small tiny basket I made for him. Never mind that I bought an expensive box filled with scratch pad walls and a snug interior. He liked that cheap RM2 Daiso basket above all else. And sleeping on top of his cat carrier bag!

    Although he wasn’t a snuggle bear (he hated being carried with a passion), he liked scritches and demanded for them. Meowing demandingly while I watch TV that I scratch his ears.

    It’s memories like these that make me really sad to say that Uncle didn’t make it. This was especially sad because he was only a week away from moving to his forever home. His new mum was so eager to have him over and already prepared his bed and toys. But Uncle’s health problems caught up with him and he left us in the end.

    I made a video of him to remember his sweet personality, and I’m really sure that he is over the rainbow bridge waiting for us.

    Career transition part … four?

    Actually, don’t take my word for it, but I’ve lost count how many career changes I’ve made.

    Let me see, I first started in advertising as a copywriter, then I became a journalist for nearly 15 years — the longest career I’ve had.

    Then came my journey out of journalism, which was a tad “transformative”. I explored almost every content career from 2018 to 2022, not terribly hard when I had “swiss army knife” roles where I dabbled in everything, from public relations, digital marketing, content marketing to content management.

    It was a valuable opportunity to really understand what I liked. And what I liked, besides writing, was creating systems and being almost obsessive about documentation.

    Uncle, the tuxedo cat

    I didn’t know that there was a career where people actually did what I did on the side — creating knowledge bases, documenting SOPs and creating user guides. It’s called Technical Writing, and that’s where I’m going next.

    This is a far more technical role than my previous roles, and I’m pretty excited to finally use my years of dabbling in code and software and translating it into a new career. Wish me luck!

    My reading list

    Here’s to hoping I read them! I have waaaaay too many unread books and my previous attempts at trimming down my TBR stockpile has been futile. But, I still have hope lol.

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  • January to May 2022: A new home

    January to May 2022: A new home

    Life: I moved to beautiful new digs!

    After my nearly two-month digital nomad experiment in Penang, I decided that I could no longer return to my noisy, roach-infested apartment. I found a gorgeous 3-room apartment on top of a hill. I now have my own private office, grow vegetables in my two balconies and wake up every day to the sound of bird song. I’ve never been happier. The image above is taken at one of my favourite places in the world — the sitting area at the front balcony.

    Finance: Investing seriously

    I spent November 2021 to March 2022 cautiously wading into investing. I opened my CDS account (an account for investors), bought my first stock (Maybank, yay!), REITs and then proceeded to start buying US ETFs directly. I also devoured a lot of finance books, starting with The Little Book of Common Sense Investing, and wondered why I took so long to read this book. It would have saved me a lot of mistakes! Currently moving money out of unit trusts, roboadvisors and fixed deposits to carve a portfolio of 60% international equities (VT, VTI and VXUS), 30% fixed income, 10% Malaysian equities (stocks and REITs). I expect it to take more than a year to achieve this.

    Writing: Guides to investing

    Galvanised by how difficult it was to find unbiased, straightforward content about how to invest in Malaysia, I’m currently writing first, a guide to roboadvisors and next, the basics of investing. However, because my day job involves me writing as well, my mental energy is often too tapped to write as fast as I’d like. But I’m determined to publish these guides by end of 2022.

    Career: Still working from home

    I’m ever so grateful that I’m still allowed to work from home when so many in Malaysia are being called back to glass towers. The traffic jams in Malaysia are so, so bad, made worse by flash floods that happen when it rains in the evening, when people are trying to come home. I’m also nearing two years at my current company, and seeing how tumultuous my career transition from journalism was, I cannot tell you how happy I am to achieve this milestone.

    Reading

    Perhaps it was the pandemic blues. Perhaps it’s life getting extra difficult lately, but my reading has slowed down considerably these days. This coming from someone who used to read a book in two to three days!

  • Lockdown diaries, June 2020

    🌱 If you’re following my website via RSS or subscription, please note that this is just a “seedling” or a post where it is a work in progress.

    Jun 1, 2020
    “For decades, Minneapolis has embraced its image as a progressive bastion. This week ripped that away, and left something behind much grimmer.” – @AdamMinter

    Jun 1, 2020
    At this stage we just need zombies and aliens https://t.co/3OBqKpD0Ec

    Jun 2, 2020
    “Have you ever thought about how short life is?

    We only get 85 years if we’re lucky. Yet we spend the majority of our time acting like someone we’re not.”

    https://t.co/Cb6tX2AEEo

    Jun 2, 2020
    You have to make a choice. Do you want to be number one, or do you want to be happy? You may become a victim of your success, but you can never become a victim of your happiness.

    Jun 2, 2020
    Mum’s usual unit of measurement: “A little bit of this, a lot of that.” https://t.co/KlvsOjsdwU
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    Jun 5, 2020
    I’m one of those annoyingly morning people. My bro needs 3 alarms to wake up. I just need a mental reminder the night before and poof, I’m awake at that time. A superpower I inherited from my dad. I 💕starting work at 7am when the sun’s just peeking out. No coffee needed.

    Jun 5, 2020
    In Asia, where the elderly are respected and even revered, this would have been incomprehensible and these actions the lowest of the low. Our cops are not perfect, we have brutality here too. But I can’t help but think our abang police would approach this much differently. https://t.co/HL8NgmKcrb

    Jun 6, 2020
    I’ve been trying to finish the food I bought to get through the MCO/lockdown since May.
    I am still trying.

    Jun 6, 2020
    Ye Hua, you are still the one. #cdrama #tenmilesofpeachblossoms https://t.co/tSOvtLzBwe
    GIF

    Jun 6, 2020
    Yes I am a super morning person. That also means I am a super non-night person. I am practically brain dead after 9pm and look half drunk if I had to stay up after 10pm.

    Jun 8, 2020
    Dear @AskScribd I can’t pause my membership. The option is no longer available for me. Why? Can u only pause your membership at certain times? Once a year? What? https://t.co/X7hYrOcg7T

    Jun 8, 2020
    I use coconut oil or ghee most of the time. Sometimes, I use animal fat – such as the fat from chicken skin & bacon grease. https://t.co/v5SCWFITn4

    Jun 8, 2020
    Yesterday, filled my Axia’s 🚘 tank. Have not topped up since March thanks to the lockdown.

    I paid RM35 (US$9) for a full tank. 😶 https://t.co/HrmnnBwY8F
    GIF

    Jun 8, 2020
    You know the saying, “if you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say anything?” https://t.co/V1nkjW9bJe

    Jun 8, 2020
    Here’s an investment that many personal finance bloggers hardly talk about:
    A vegetable garden. https://t.co/SW8enFROhO

    Jun 8, 2020
    When you’re #debtfree you have less stress & can take bigger risks. Here’s how to start your journey: https://t.co/YgXBiIwz1U

    Jun 9, 2020
    The dilemma of house owners in Malaysia in this age. I feel for them. And to think I used to fret over my RM120k house loan!! https://t.co/hTTf8S6Rqe

    Jun 9, 2020
    Saying goodbye to journalism was so hard. I’m still grieving for that loss of identity as I move on without this career, which had defined me for almost two decades: https://t.co/ek4VjJTyoh

    Jun 9, 2020
    📺 If you are a newbie to investing, do watch this great Explained episode on how the stock market works. Get educated before you invest! Via @netflix https://t.co/q1YX2eiQzj

    Jun 9, 2020
    Sam Neil cuddling with a duck is LIFE https://t.co/toNv7r4ghk

    Jun 10, 2020
    Financial burnout is real. I was so dogged & determined in pursuing early retirement that I made a lot of sacrifices. Sometimes to the detriment of my health. https://t.co/QqMleet8Y5

    Jun 10, 2020
    Why do we name our pets after food? 🤔

    Jun 11, 2020
    To date, this remains one of my most popular posts on the blog. I suppose not many people willingly give up a PR to make the journey back home to Malaysia. https://t.co/HqP3HAAddO

    Jun 12, 2020
    Because of my dogged pursuit of FIRE (Financial Independence Retire Early) I lost the courage to live life the way I want. Don’t be me. https://t.co/QqMleet8Y5

    Jun 12, 2020
    Spending time in the garden has improved my well-being massively. In fact, I consider my vege patch a great investment for my mental health. I go there at least twice a week and I am rewarded with fat spinach 😄 https://t.co/T2AIKZMFxl
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    Jun 12, 2020
    Tell me about it. I went into nursing terrified. Wrote my first ebook terrified. Left journalism scared shitless. Getting used to failing on repeat is something I am learning to embrace. https://t.co/NNeNPtwYBM

    Jun 13, 2020
    If you find yourself feeling sad because you pulled the plug on an old career in exchange for a new one, don’t be surprised. It’s a natural part of the process.
    https://t.co/ek4VjKb9MR

    Jun 13, 2020
    I completely redesigned my website today. And only slept an hour. Guys, don’t be me 🤣 Here’s my new web home 👇 https://t.co/FtCx5Lb1aI

    Jun 13, 2020
    Found out that there have been no briefings about the #COVID19 situation in the US for weeks. 😶 In Malaysia, we have DAILY briefings. Our poor Health DG @DGHisham has been working non-stop since the crisis began. So grateful. Thank you, sir!

    Jun 14, 2020
    The nasi lemak makcik is back at the lrt station after months of MCO. Thank goodness!

    Jun 14, 2020
    Just to torture myself I feel like taking up a wordpress developer course. Because, wtf not

    Jun 14, 2020
    I decided to take a nap at 2pm yesterday and woke up at 6am today. Wow that’s some nap!

    Jun 14, 2020
    Ah so Singapore has come up with a list of non-essential workers. My my, salty! https://t.co/iB1DjiGLt0

    Jun 15, 2020
    I’m just gonna post dog+cat photos today. https://t.co/B5ukEAUoPj

    Jun 15, 2020
    TNB is trending – apparently many are experiencing a huge spike in their electricity bills gulp Here’s a possible explanation by @twt_kerja https://t.co/Jcu681mYri

    Jun 15, 2020
    Malaysia is no.10 in producing solid waste. 😮 https://t.co/n7h1c5uKSn

    Jun 15, 2020
    “… our society will soon realise that academic qualifications will become increasingly irrelevant. The future of work globally will not be one with a clear blue- and white-collar job divide.”

    https://t.co/9Vce9hkX8u

    Jun 15, 2020
    Did you lose income/job because of #COVID19?

    Jun 15, 2020
    The children are back in the condo playground. Social distancing? Nawwww who needs them https://t.co/zrhfueI4nz
    GIF

    Jun 15, 2020
    Stock market these days👇 https://t.co/fnj7jw62Tp
    GIF

    Jun 15, 2020
    Man, I didn’t know poodle pigs existed! https://t.co/5hdcUkTKWS

    Jun 15, 2020
    EPIC 🤣 https://t.co/D2Qx3cnaqD

    Jun 15, 2020
    Living #debtfree is amazing. You’re less stressed & you can weather crisis better. Here’s how you can do it: https://t.co/YgXBiIwz1U

    Jun 16, 2020
    Anxious, stressed or depressed due to the massive changes caused by #COVID19? Please do yourself a favour and take this free online course by @Yale. You don’t just learn theory – you learn to implement in your life through “rewiring” projects. https://t.co/wW45Yqec6x

    Jun 16, 2020
    Rick Warren: God has a timetable for everything.
    Me: Can I have a peek at the timetable? Just a quick one? 😇

    Jun 16, 2020
    I finally listed all the books I’ve written on one page. It feels really good to see that I’ve produced these. Now … to market them!
    https://t.co/4YMqfO3JVP

    Jun 16, 2020
    When you walk around the mall wondering why the world is in a blur and wondering if your eyesight has worsened… Only to realise you’ve been walking around with your reading glasses. https://t.co/yDp5QL35aI
    GIF

    Jun 16, 2020
    “Tomorrow isn’t promised. Live in the moment. You think you have time, but you don’t.” We all need to remember this. Via @DebtAscent https://t.co/chdtMtGDIe https://t.co/chdtMtGDIe

    Jun 16, 2020
    5 things I learned from Korean dramas:

    1. Men brood in showers
    2. Kisses happen in slow motion
    3. Stare and freeze when someone kisses you
    4. People die at zebra crossings a lot
    5. Chaebols are always cold MOFO. But hawt. Always hawt.
      Right, @kfangurl ?? https://t.co/RKsHoZXapb
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    Jun 18, 2020
    Just had a wonderful chat with @FinancialGory today at 11am. He has done more in his life than I did at his age! With a good financial foundation, you can really pursue your dreams. Thanks for your time @azraeimuhamad 😃

    Jun 18, 2020
    Woohoo I think I got it! Making boba pearls – it’s white cos I didn’t bother getting dark brown sugar. https://t.co/Ez0hKKVpda

    Jun 18, 2020
    Wow never thought I would be able to make boba pearls from scratch. It’s not terribly hard but it’s tedious https://t.co/2Mn5RYpQqB

    Jun 18, 2020
    I ❤️ their friendship. Much prayers for James who must feel the loss keenly. https://t.co/HrlCSkQbeq

    Jun 19, 2020
    RM2 can’t even buy you a packet of nasi lemak these days. https://t.co/Qrg9W70uHv

    Jun 20, 2020
    My bro just bought RM200 worth of durian. It’s not like, berlambak lambak k? It’s four tiny boxes. Maybe I should consider becoming a durian seller?🤔

    Jun 20, 2020
    So apparently, when you finally get an SSL certificate you’d be rewarded with a precipitous drop in traffic. Lovely. Here’s what I should’v done after getting a https address: https://t.co/Tu8GhLQHW9

    Jun 20, 2020
    I have Denmark bike envy 😑 oh Malaysia, wil we ever have this? https://t.co/gUZv28rfVm

    Jun 20, 2020
    When a company or department is run by folks in fear, the results are less than optimal. Goals end up being sabotaged by self preservation and insecurity. https://t.co/YP8MWFiB7D

    Jun 20, 2020
    I so agree with this. When I worked with the newspaper, my editors were brutal with my copy. But I sure learned a lot about writing great articles. https://t.co/1EjScbTNfV

    Jun 21, 2020
    This week’s boba pearls. It costs only RM1 but lots of labour involved. Phew. https://t.co/FgohfeXlTO
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    Jun 21, 2020
    I still can’t get over how obvious & plentiful the product placements in #TheEternalKingMonarch was. https://t.co/B5t897e4Kg

    Jun 22, 2020
    The boba pearls I made are blue because I boiled some butterfly pea flowers (Bunga telang) in the mix. A nice, safe form of colouring 😊 https://t.co/latOMZq5oT
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    Jun 22, 2020
    It’s so sad that such a well-known brand has such a toxic workplace. Why does this keep happening and is there a way to prevent it? https://t.co/qYrhhHLzg0

    Jun 22, 2020
    Just post it! https://t.co/vH6zr7Ni0d

    Jun 22, 2020
    20 yo Robinhood trader commits suicide after seeing -$US730k balance 😩 https://t.co/nfI97zHFXe

    Jun 22, 2020
    A few days ago, a 20yo investor committed suicide after he discovered a -$750k balance. He thought he was nearly a mil in debt 😟 His cousin Bill Brewster talks about this incident in his own words 👇 https://t.co/8V5Gt787WR

    Jun 22, 2020
    Yup, I was thinking this was a UX problem https://t.co/DUAsRkdKNb

    Jun 23, 2020
    Guys, don’t invest unless you know what you’re investing in, what risks are related to the investment vehicles and how it works.

    Jun 23, 2020
    I only buy new things when the old one completely disintegrates, falls apart and collapses into a pitiful wreck. I guess it’s time for a new case. https://t.co/mGtBlx5IJb
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    Jun 23, 2020
    The coronavirus also doesn’t care if you think it no longer exists. https://t.co/5qAjEb6g2S

    Jun 23, 2020
    A Melbournian got upset when I asked for Vienna coffee in Melbourne. “We take our coffee seriously, so of course we won’t have coffee of the Viennese variety here!”
    But I just want whipped cream on my coffee, is that too much to ask? https://t.co/a5zcTANTPK
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    Jun 23, 2020
    This is @RobinhoodApp’s response to Alex Kearns’ suicide. I think education is really, really important right now. And safeguards. Lots of it. https://t.co/02Gi1BkOYd

    Jun 23, 2020
    Is this a case of bad UX? Or irresponsible UX? https://t.co/VqGk5oCWlW

    Jun 23, 2020
    I had to lol at my apartment management’s exhortation that kids need to maintain 1m distance from each other at the play area. I can most assuredly tell you they are happily ignoring that rule.

    And that their parents couldn’t care less.

    Jun 24, 2020
    Even pros struggle with personal finance https://t.co/iKPKnuBKA4

    Jun 24, 2020
    I am actually the same, but only in Malaysia. In Australia I bought my second hand Toyota for $6k. Damn I miss that car. https://t.co/WNlkulEZyq

    Jun 24, 2020
    Oh good then. I am tots a generalist when it comes to writing https://t.co/3LvsUv6MXs

    Jun 24, 2020
    This is totally me. https://t.co/ywdOuvatxz

    Jun 26, 2020
    I feel this. I once was asked to talk to a group of B40 folks about personal finance and I knew it would be insulting of me to tell them to “save better”. The PF community in Malaysia needs to do better to serve folks who are struggling financially, B40, M40 or whatever group https://t.co/Wr9VArQTfP

    Jun 26, 2020
    Are you stressed by debts? I know how it’s like. Years ago, I had owed RM20k+ (credit card debts & car loan). Here’s how I managed the stress as I paid off my debts. Much thanks to AIA Malaysia for letting me to share my experience with Malaysians! Read: 👇https://t.co/ho6a20hQes

    Jun 26, 2020
    As I grew up, my frugalistas maximus parents lectured me about saving $, buying property & not being an idiot with credit cards. You think I’d be set for life. But noooo, I rebelled by being the opposite. By 25, I racked up enough credit card debt to make them weep 1/3

    Jun 26, 2020
    Advice from mum and dad! haha https://t.co/k6FPJTZhg8

    Jun 26, 2020
    If you have debts in your life, it can get really stressful. You constantly wonder if you have enough money. Here an article I wrote for AIA on the ways to manage the stress when you’re trying to pay down your debt. Read: 👉 https://t.co/wPRe7Cs33K https://t.co/K4J3BRBbfk
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    Jun 27, 2020
    If these are Malaysians, we are huge savers! https://t.co/hsfEg2qHca

    Jun 27, 2020
    Last week, I read about the tragic story of an investor who killed himself because he thought he lost nearly -US$750k. Robinhood investor Alex Kearns’ tragic story highlights our need for financial education and a healthy relationship to money.

    https://t.co/cXTfWZswkh

    Jun 29, 2020
    This is still important to say: Suicide isn’t the answer to your money or debt problems. If you are struggling right now, please seek help. https://t.co/cXTfWZswkh

    Jun 29, 2020
    I’m in a co-working space now and it’s uncomfortably packed. Oof.

    Jun 29, 2020
    You know what’s more annoying? There’s a person with a full-blown cold in the coworking space. There were no screenings for temperature, or check-ins. Nopes. This is not good.

    Jun 29, 2020
    “No matter how bad the economy gets, you will pull through financially and come out on the other side OK” – @JessGarbarino https://t.co/NgVdTwzVU9

    Jun 29, 2020
    I want my own booty pillow https://t.co/NYsoqihLHK

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  • Lockdown diaries, May 2020

    🌱 If you’re following my website via RSS or subscription, please note that this is just a “seedling” or a post where it is a work in progress.

    May 1, 2020
    OMG DO YOU KNOW HOW LONG I’VE WAITED FOR THIS https://t.co/DS2vGZV2k8

    May 1, 2020
    I am just supremely glad this is allowed now. But heck, everything else feels vague. https://t.co/PIrX0OxhQT

    May 1, 2020
    Feeling the pressure to be productive during #COVID19 lockdown? Here’s a daring idea: Do nothing. https://t.co/bxKlGZhdsl

    May 2, 2020
    The Malaysian dilemma on Monday. Some companies are already asking their workers to return to the office https://t.co/Lgd4Cr49PZ

    May 2, 2020
    Yes community gardens are allowed to open. Oh, finally I can visit my dear spinach https://t.co/wFhCIL5K9a

    May 2, 2020
    I managed to see Tuxie, the cat I rescued weeks ago. He’s doing well and (ahem) still looking for a home. PM me if you are keen. He is a sweet boy! https://t.co/j1PFvSH8d6

    May 2, 2020
    Don’t dick around with Ginger, pup. https://t.co/hbZYWuSisU

    May 2, 2020
    Er … how? https://t.co/YYDxUkCDQc

    May 3, 2020
    Was browsing photos in Google Photos and while it was heckin expensive, I was glad I gallavanted around Adelaide and then Melbourne with @evelyn_teo – especially since we have no idea when international travel will resume! https://t.co/3lqcku4jS7

    May 3, 2020
    Feel like kneading bread today. So I shall.

    May 4, 2020
    Throwing out your food scraps with your garbage isn’t good for the environment. So what do you do? Some tips: https://t.co/i3F5OLxzJv

    May 7, 2020
    Tuxie is ready to be released. I am desperately looking for someone to foster or adopt him as I live in an apartment that does not allow pets. So if you know where Tuxie can go to live safely, whether it be a foster home, shelter or better, adopted, please let me know. https://t.co/QBHTLcmVPr
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    May 9, 2020
    Finally could focus enough to watch something and I lucked out with While You Were Sleeping. It hit all the right notes for me Now I am on the hunt for more like this @kfangurl any suggestions? 😛 https://t.co/cH7VHtAbIK
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    May 12, 2020
    I don’t know about quick, but these are solid steps 👇 https://t.co/P7tc1oUKnl

    May 13, 2020
    I resisted #TheKingEternalMonarch for as long as I could but gave in after seeing this scene. Sure, Lee Min Hi is pretty as heck but Woo Do Hwan being able to play two completely different characters so flawlessly is way sexier. 😁 https://t.co/ym82SBuPOo

    May 13, 2020
    The product placements in #TheKingEternalMonarch is so obvious 😆

    May 13, 2020
    Made another batch of steamed buns. I feel terribly accomplished as a homemaker today. Cleaned the bathroom, mopped and swept floors and made batches of steamed buns. https://t.co/CO8WLQBK5q

    May 14, 2020
    I have to say I am pretty fanatical about cleaning my floors. I would sweep 2x and mop 2x. I would not stop until the floor is squeaky. I suppose that’s the least you would expect from someone who takes great pleasure in cleaning the bathroom tiles with a toothbrush 😁

    May 14, 2020
    Realised I don’t much like my Twitter feed, what with all the negative news. So I cleaned it up. #sorrynotsorry

    May 14, 2020
    This is totally a sign from above!! https://t.co/0C1w0bXZCc

    May 15, 2020
    Are there any Asian bloggers who write about sustainability, minimalism, permaculture, and zero waste living? Please let me know as I want to follow!

    May 15, 2020
    Was given this by an aunty at the community garden today. Anyone knows what it is? Apparently it’s incredibly bitter and I have to do all kinds of things to make it edible. Curious to know it’s name. https://t.co/0VE5HbNU8g
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    May 16, 2020
    Just when you thought that human intelligence hasn’t reached rock bottom yet https://t.co/gptY2qTxkI

    May 17, 2020
    Unpopular opinion: I prefer Massimo over Gardenia

    May 17, 2020
    I’ve been inundated with numerous free webinars & while I am grateful for them, I am concerned about the message that we should be productive during #COVID. There’s more than 1 way to make use of the time we have – how about we rest & reflect? https://t.co/bxKlGZyOjT

    May 17, 2020
    Preach! https://t.co/X5U5RXqFsd

    May 18, 2020
    Love this article by @NomadNumbers. The message: Life is short, do what you love. Or rather, live the life you love and never want to escape from. https://t.co/KGWiMtNMun

    May 18, 2020
    “We’re only worth something if we’re productive” – that’s the message of our times. But recovery time is key to innovation and output.
    https://t.co/IGKi865pbQ

    May 18, 2020
    I am totally guilty for having way too many characters in my novels. For one, I give names to my spear holders. lol. But @annerallen has great tips on overcoming this problem: https://t.co/VmJAZb7AJC

    May 18, 2020
    YESSSS https://t.co/jPsPsDeMpQ

    May 19, 2020
    If you are given a million bucks today, what would you do with it? #QuestionOfTheDay

    May 19, 2020
    I couldn’t agree more. I cannot imagine what Americans are going through now. Prayers for all! https://t.co/LldMOLmxCs

    May 19, 2020
    As a budding entrepreneur, I have to say I’ve got some work to do! How about you – recognise any limiting beliefs you have? Via @TheFioneers https://t.co/QsP5EwTQtu

    May 19, 2020
    A few years ago, I thought I was dying. I was in constantly in pain & exhausted. Once, during dinner break, I slept in my car – I couldn’t stay upright. My condition left as mysteriously as it came. @esmewang’s story really spoke to me.
    https://t.co/Iv8VvehLa7

    May 19, 2020
    Working hard at being financially independent is prob the best thing I’ve done for myself. But working too hard on being FI has downsides. Somehow, along the way, I lost myself.
    https://t.co/ofm9esdLy6

    May 19, 2020
    This 👇 https://t.co/Vngm5gZtPx

    May 19, 2020
    “I was so vigilant to avoid unnecessary spending that whenever an opportunity came up, I would immediately shut it down.” https://t.co/IjMK3ROpmw

    May 20, 2020
    Ok I will never drink diet coke at 8pm ever again

    May 20, 2020
    Do I regret living it up the moment I received a bigger paycheck? Yes & No. What this experience taught me – I enjoyed living frugally more than lavishly. So having experienced it left me with no regrets or FOMO https://t.co/YKMPu5c2NR

    May 20, 2020
    Yes, ma’am! (And I am so going to use the word doomscrolling from now on.) https://t.co/GyadfHgVHN

    May 20, 2020
    I am gonna do something exciting today – downgrade my mobile plan. Figured that with me being home most of the time, an unlimited data plan seems pointless. But it’s annoying that @digitelco requires u to go to a specific centre to do this. 😑

    May 20, 2020
    With BluInc closed down, what remains of journalism in Malaysia? Variety has vanished – I grieve for the demise of long-form journalism.

    May 20, 2020
    I write fiction with a starship crew & keeping the cast of characters lean has been a challenge for me. @annerallen has great tips on overcoming this problem: https://t.co/VmJAZbpbBa

    May 20, 2020
    Am going to Sunway Pyramid and it feels like I am going to Langkawi. During a zombie apocalypse.

    May 20, 2020
    I’ve often wondered this. But wonder if @karenkho’s situation is more applicable in the West where they have more open attitudes about workers speaking up about work not being as rosy. Somehow I don’t picture Malaysian employers being as understanding. https://t.co/mToDQWw8sK

    May 20, 2020
    First @NAQureshi & now @RaviZacharias? I once had the rare opportunity to interview Ravi & he is a man of great depth & understanding of the scripture. A great loss to Christian apolagetics. So sad 😦 https://t.co/ldqjqJMllR

    May 20, 2020
    Anyone in Malaysia, Singapore or SEA using the @Freeletics app? Want to connect? I need motivation & accountability! Confession: I bought the coach app and have barely used it 😬

    May 21, 2020
    As I #StayAtHome most of the time now, an unlimited data plan feels too much. Downgraded to @digitelco Postpaid 38 plan & reduced bill from RM106 to RM42. Oddly this plan is available in certain stores & is not online. I did mine at the Digi centre in Sunway Pyramid.

    May 21, 2020
    This is a new word inspired by 2020 https://t.co/lEKtcWBOJV

    May 21, 2020
    For my biz, I use mostly online services that are based abroad. Mailing list – @MailerLite, website – @squarespace, ebook distribution – @Draft2Digital. So far I have not found local equivelants that are as good or cost effective. If you know some, do recommend me some.

    May 21, 2020
    Hi @jessmichaelsbks really ❤️ yr books! Was wondering if you could make more of them available on @Scribd?

    May 21, 2020
    Just received royalty payment from @Smashwords for my books. Moments like these give me hope that earning an income from indie publishing could be possible.

    May 21, 2020
    My #financialindependence goal for 2020 & beyond: to increase streams of income from 3 to 5.

    May 21, 2020
    Finally after weeks of trying to find a home for Tuxie, he’s been adopted. Watch his story here https://t.co/mTXkrB1gyU

    May 21, 2020
    Oh yes, baby YEAST. I learned how to make my own steamed mantaus thanks to the #movementcontrolorder. They are so cheap to make! I make 8 pieces from a packet of yeast & 350g of flour – about 20c a piece! I can’t buy store-bought mantao anymore cos mine’s yummier & cheaper. 😆 https://t.co/1bKfaLIVG2
    Embedded image permalink

    May 21, 2020
    Media: Are you sure you’re a good lover? https://t.co/QHCMRxrkmA
    Embedded image permalink

    May 21, 2020
    I was told that journalism wouldn’t fit me, I would hate it and find it boring. I spent 15 yrs in the no.1 English newspaper in Malaysia, travelled the world writing about cool stuff & interviewing big league players. Listen to yourself first. https://t.co/6Ksf9uh99d

    May 22, 2020
    Omg this is sci-fi level stuff @tedmahsun https://t.co/KnhIHcgNOA

    May 22, 2020
    I never understood @Apple mania until I bought an iPhone and MacBook Air. It’s true. They just work. By now, my android phone or Windows laptop would be crawling, riddled with bugs & viruses. If you want more long lasting tech, go apple. Ok, you can attack me now 😆

    May 22, 2020
    Unpopular opinion: Most Malaysian personal finance bloggers are all about making more money. Making money is great but how about frugal living, simple & debt free living? Sometimes I feel like the lone voice in the wilderness

    May 22, 2020
    I relate to this cat hard. https://t.co/R2eyDMvIuT

    May 22, 2020
    “When I came back to Malaysia after being laid off twice in Singapore. I had enough. I had enough with the Oil & Gas industry, and I had enough of being an employee.” https://t.co/ydaXkWRRiW

    May 22, 2020
    Malatsian #personalfinance bloggers – have you been unemployed before? How did you manage that period emotionally & financially? What did you do to emerge from it? I would ❤️ to list & share your posts. I think many people will appreciate learning from them now.

    May 23, 2020
    Have you been unemployed before? Either laid off or quit your job without another? How did you manage financially & emotionally? Do send me your posts so I can list them as a resource for those struggling with job loss now.
    PS: you don’t have to be Malaysian!

    May 23, 2020
    Am I the only one that thinks – that poor cup of soda? https://t.co/HiUliR3HP8

    May 23, 2020
    As usual, dropped by at the community garden to do some work. Harvested sweet potato leaves & chillies. Growing your own food is one of the most empowering things you can do for yourself. Growing food as a community is extraordinary. https://t.co/DBLzEzyTSt

    May 23, 2020
    In the 1990s, Cuba had a huge economic crisis. People nearly starved. But they came together & changed their way of life. They planted vegetables wherever they could, changed their diets, walked & biked more.

    Watch: https://t.co/bXnjkC4cQY

    May 23, 2020
    Watching all these documentaries on Cuban organic farming revolution made me think about one of my fav bands ever – Buena Vista Social Club https://t.co/h8jkON9loJ

    May 23, 2020
    God is creative. And may have watched the Species movies. https://t.co/73aAjbuzDL

    May 23, 2020
    I am surprised this tweet blew up 😅 But am also surprised that some are hostile to the idea of frugality & simple living. Some Malaysians seem to think frugality & minimalism = deprivation & suffering, and the only way out is to earn more. https://t.co/fyB1VM1ypA

    May 23, 2020
    When your mum sneaks in 6 paus into your bag because she thinks you are starving. ❤️ Mum, have a look at me. I got lots of “backup food”.

    May 23, 2020
    Still inspiring 🙂 https://t.co/uqWXjEY4C3

    May 23, 2020
    Whoa I am 20 subs away from 1000. So close! Who would have thought? Thank you guys. Somehow my weird thoughts are interesting to you guys 😆 https://t.co/Zzb7QfXZzw
    GIF

    May 24, 2020
    She gave up the chance at a corporate career to be an urban farmer in Singapore. “Money is a tool to do things. But people often forget that it’s not the only way to live life.” https://t.co/yDDPsR3uHc

    May 24, 2020
    SELAMAT HARI RAYA MALAYSIANSSS https://t.co/F2Sd3G8MPy

    May 25, 2020
    I remember reading a local personal finance book once and the examples she used were people who were earning RM15k per month. 😅 I couldn’t relate at all

    May 25, 2020
    Hello personal finance people! What are your plans today?

    May 25, 2020
    Realised that I have been freelancing most of my life without realising it. First time when I was 20, then a few jobs here there. When I moved to Australia I managed to find clients too, so I guess I do have the freelancing spirit. Now to hone it!

    May 25, 2020
    So here’s a cheery question first thing in the morning! Have you prepared a will? If so why did you/did you not?

    May 25, 2020
    Watching my @StashAwayAPAC investments dance around the graph has been very entertaining.

    May 25, 2020
    I really relate to @FinancialGory. The moment I feel comfortable, I get restless. Although I spent 15 years in the Star, I changed departments/roles every 3-4 years, learning new skills along the way. At 35 I moved to Australia, & trained to be a nurse.

    May 25, 2020
    You can reengineer sidewalks, tiny spaces of dirt into edible land. https://t.co/e6scogrjZO

    May 25, 2020
    Lol say it sister https://t.co/QjApU2eG0U

    May 25, 2020
    Start cutescrolling instead! https://t.co/yzlZPLdUmU

    May 25, 2020
    Baptisms in the age of #COVID2019 can be a tad confrontational https://t.co/p076LBspNm

    May 26, 2020
    Yippee I crossed the 1000 subscribers mark. Thank you, friends! https://t.co/ZZVyAEiTr3
    GIF

    May 26, 2020
    One of mymost important projects this season is to grow food for myself. I am now planting spinach, sweet potato leaves & kangkong in my parents’ house and the community garden. If all goes well, I will have a healthy supply of organic greens in 2 months (hopefully less!) https://t.co/uH7QeAByNm

    May 26, 2020
    This is so politically incorrect but yet I am 😂 Forgive me https://t.co/almD60VDDl

    May 26, 2020
    I am fortunate that, unlike some professions, I have the power to create my own projects without asking for permission. As a writer, I can write until I am in my deathbed and no one can say, “you are too old to do this” or “you need this cert to show us you know this stuff.”

    May 27, 2020
    Well this tweet blew up. But really, I stand by it. When healthcare workers are literally melting into a puddle of sweat every day to protect us, we can wear that dang mask to ensure we don’t spread infection to each other. https://t.co/rqDCHuCoxj

    May 27, 2020
    Happy to see the spinach seedlings grow around the lone ginger in this space. May I get bountiful harvest soon. https://t.co/GsMQZG1qEo
    Embedded image permalink

    May 27, 2020
    Also started adding mulch. Was getting tired of the weeds and wanted a way to ensure they don’t go out of control and also prevent the ground from drying out too quickly. Made the mulch from tree leaves, twigs and coconut leaves. https://t.co/T7wnNAJGNA
    Embedded image permalink

    May 27, 2020
    The American stock market is being totally weird. https://t.co/3ry9YyGlV2

    May 27, 2020
    Mine’s consistently 36C. But apparently there are undead in Malaysia, because I have seen those with temps of 31-33C 🤔 https://t.co/wg2asEjksT

    May 27, 2020
    Ok what is this Fortnite thing and why is it so awesome?

    May 27, 2020
    People in Malaysia are quickly forgetting the importance of this. https://t.co/5GpZaSl6hA

    May 28, 2020
    I am so obsessed with making steamed mantau that I may end up being called Ms Mantau one day. https://t.co/ausx3LnkoR
    Embedded image permalink

    May 28, 2020
    Confession: I have not dared to look at my unit trust investments. Probably will only dare to look end of next year 😄😂

    May 28, 2020
    Went to mall. My temp is 33C today. Apparently I died and no one gave me the memo? 😂

    May 28, 2020
    Malaysians need to start Victory Gardens too. They are amazingly reassuring during times of crisis. Am inspired by @TreadLightly_RE https://t.co/6liHvKPKad

    May 28, 2020
    Ok what in the world is going on America https://t.co/A2jrIOPqUb

    May 29, 2020
    Warning: Cerita panjang! Recently, I come to realise tht many Msians think frugality = deprivation & that the only way to have a better life is to earn more $. Poverty is real but Frugality + Good Money Habits + Self sufficiency + Relationships = Awesome life. 1/6 https://t.co/aVXs5zDVeb
    Embedded image permalink

    May 29, 2020
    Yeah, that ONE day I had to drive to office, it pours like it had not rained for weeks.

    May 29, 2020
    I’m addicted to @Refinery29’s Money Diaries where folks detail their spending habits for a week. Can we do a Malaysian version?? https://t.co/WrhVHT9tQt

    May 29, 2020
    OMG I DON’T THINK I CAN DO THIS.
    I still have my high school journals ;D
    https://t.co/I3Xea7DMsL

    May 29, 2020
    But why?? https://t.co/eRnRgzppXW

    May 29, 2020
    My commute to and from the office used to be over 2 hours a day. I am at work 9 hours a day. It all seems extremely long now.

    May 30, 2020
    The only things I miss from the office: free flow coffee & all-day aircond. I don’t use it most of the time at home except at night and I am a puddle of sweat every day 😵

    May 30, 2020
    My love for permaculture was sparked in Australia, when I met people like Yin who taught me how to grow your own food and live sustainably: https://t.co/XzPsQagKfr

    May 30, 2020
    So very sad 😭 Subang Parade MPH has been in the neighborhood for decades. It is my fav hang out place to chillax with books. Now…? 😭 https://t.co/tccpZpBgcy

    May 30, 2020
    Me reading the #MinneapolisRiot thread https://t.co/e03kNLIzK8
    GIF

    May 30, 2020
    I made my own bubble tea 😁 https://t.co/KzL9xs0nnF
    Embedded image permalink

    May 30, 2020
    This is so beautiful. We need this Malaysian residential streets https://t.co/ZOS0mShnAM

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  • Lockdown diaries, April 2020

    These are selected rescued tweets from Twitter. I mostly journaled throughout the lockdowns through the bird site. The pandemic year of 2020 is pivotal, and we should keep our memories on platforms we own as they are important historical records.

    Apr 1, 2020
    Sigh in Malaysia some of us won’t get a cent.

    Apr 1, 2020
    I don’t suppose apartment managements can give us a moratorium on paying service charges?

    Apr 1, 2020
    I just realised that I am so glad I took out my investments from unit trust and plonk it back in EPF before the #StockMarketCrash2020

    Context, added Jan 21, 2023: I really wanted that stimulus money because like millions worldwide, I lost my job during the pandemic. Only, it was my decision, so I didn’t feel like I was “part of the club”. I quit my job sometime in March, just a few days before the lockdown started in Malaysia on March 16. I quit without another job lined up. It was the first time I’ve ever done such a thing, and doing it in the midst of the world’s most tumultous economic period ever was terrifying. And that’s why I was super glad most of my money wasn’t tied up in stocks. Instead, I had an overly healthy emergency fund. The money was initially earmarked for investments, but I kept dragging my feet on it because I didn’t know how to invest. That money would come handy in the new few months.

    Apr 1, 2020
    The #MovementControlOrder is making an impact. #StayAtHome Malaysians, we can do this!

    Apr 2, 2020
    Hello @KKMPutrajaya @UMMC_KL my 80yo dad needs to get his medicine but they say he is not eligible for deliveries. Is there a way I can collect his medication for him? We’ve been trying to find out to no avail. Hope there’s an answer – we don’t want him exposed to #Covid_19.

    Apr 2, 2020
    I am going through this now. My 80 yo dad needs to get his meds from UMMC but it’s 10km away from his home & because only 1 person is allowed in a car, I can’t take my dad to the hospital for his appointments. What can we do?

    Context, added Jan 21, 2023: Malaysia’s government communication channels are really poor and vary from ministry to ministry. Their websites are barely updated and most rely on, of all things, Twitter to communicate with the public. Before, I would’ve personally gone to the hospital to ask for information, but with lockdowns I had to rely on Twitter.

    Apr 3, 2020
    I find it ironic that I am reading a romance novel and the heroine’s name is Corona.

    Apr 3, 2020
    In Malaysia it’s widely believed that we should only wear masks when we are sick – we need to save those masks for those who need it. At RM1.50 per mask, it’s not affordable for some Malaysians to buy supplies (if they can find any!) Solution – home-made masks.

    Apr 3, 2020
    How Taiwan avoided a mask shortage #Masks4All

    Apr 3, 2020
    I love the PC names that governments come up with for lockdowns. Still, circuit breaker way cooler that #MovementControlOrder which sounds terribly Orwellian.

    Apr 3, 2020
    Disney’s Mulan looks impressive but I still can’t brain that everyone is speaking in American English

    Apr 3, 2020
    The #covid-19 pandemic is a rare time for us to reflect on our lives. Are we on the right path & should we change?

    Apr 4, 2020
    These are my #COVID2019 realisations:

    • #WorkFromHome is no longer a privilege but a necessity for biz to survive. Those who had not implemented the infrastructure enabling this will suffer
    • Simple living, grow your own food, frugality – a msg that will grow in importance soon

    Apr 4, 2020
    Dear personal finance Twitter – the tip to “stay employed” is out-of-touch advice. Why? Not everyone has that choice, get it??

    I am getting $%! annoyed more and more with #personalfinance influencers these days.

    Apr 5, 2020
    Okay reading posts from Americans who are upset there aren’t any diapers left. Honestly, it’s not the end of the world. My mum used cloths diapers on us kids and we grew up ok. Try it – you may not want to go back!

    Apr 7, 2020
    I have been a really good frugalist by cooking my own food almost every day. I have also challenged myself to have at least 3 #nobuy days a week. Goes to show that if you don’t go out you can save more!

    Apr 8, 2020
    “I’ve found that security does not lie in money or a job. That is an illusion of security. Real security lies in relationships, knowledge, resourcefulness, and an understanding of how your surroundings and the earth works.” – @RobJGreenfield
    https://t.co/mQheubu6Hz

    Apr 9, 2020
    Finally. The nagging cough I had has finally eased after a week. Was worried for a bit. What strange times while live in that a cough would make you worried.

    Apr 9, 2020
    #MovementControlOrder culinary discovery: Ping Pong cream crackers with cream cheese. DIVINE.

    Apr 9, 2020
    It has been nearly a month since the #MovementControlOrder began. My bro has been eating the same dinner every single day – mee goreng. I am in awe of his culinary consistency.

    Apr 11, 2020
    The problem with having allergies is that you make people around you very nervous during a pandemic.

    Apr 11, 2020
    I have not taken coffee not even decaf since the lockdown began. Probably the only thing I miss from my office. The Nespresso machine!!

    Apr 12, 2020
    Can the minimalism lifestyle survive in a #COVID19 world or should we all be maximalists from now on?https://www.elizabethtai.com/blog/minimalism-in-the-time-of-covid-19

    Apr 12, 2020
    As a no BS, “say what you mean” kind of person, it drives me nuts that lockdowns are not called lockdowns in my part of the world:
    Malaysia – #MovementControlOrder
    Singapore – #circuitbreaker
    Philippines – #EnhancedCommunityQuarantine

    Apr 13, 2020
    I always wondered this. When I was a nursing assistant in Australia it stunned me to discover that most Aussies think it’s beneath them. Yet nurses perform such essential services – like saving your life. Same for grocery workers. Without them, we won’t get fed.

    Apr 13, 2020
    Currently reading every book there is about burnout. Why? Because it’s a topic that sorely needs to be talked about in Malaysian society. @WHO recognized burnout as a medical condition last year.

    Apr 13, 2020
    “Burnout starts out slowly and gradually increases. A sinister
    affliction, it often goes unnoticed in its early stages. I can tell you from personal experience that by the time you realize you’re burning out, it’s already too late.” – Burnout Gamble by @HamzaK

    Apr 13, 2020
    … burnout affects anybody who tries to do too much and, more importantly, tries to do too much of the wrong thing. When you consistently .. persuade yourself into doing things that aren’t good for you … you open yourself up to burnout. – Recover from Burnout, @JudyKlipin

    Apr 13, 2020
    “It took two months of doing absolutely nothing every single day – two months of being almost entirely confined to her bed or the couch – before Kati started to feel like herself again.” – Recover from Burnout @JudyKlipin

    Apr 13, 2020
    By doing nothing, you create the space to tune into your
    body and hear what it’s asking you to do for it. – Recover from Burnout @JudyKlipin

    Context, added Jan 21, 2023: Newsflash, but I was burned out when I wrote this. There was a reason why I quit my job during a pandemic lol. To be honest, the first few months of the lockdown were some of the happiest in my life because I finally had relief from years of hyperproductivity, office politics and toxicity.

    Apr 13, 2020
    My apartment management just told us they will waive May & June sinking fund + management fees. Thank u thank u! U don’t know what it means to me.

    Apr 15, 2020
    Wow. Just wow. If only we can just ignore the US but their president’s actions affect the world. https://t.co/T7NOHQ12dg

    Apr 15, 2020
    Me: Awright. Time to get to work & write those email blasts!
    Brain: Donwan. I wanna write about hunky men in space.
    Me: Sigh. Don’t we all.

    Apr 15, 2020
    Instead of watching CNN on loop, I’m now watching endless @dodo vids cos watching cute fluffeh dogs & cats is way better than the panicked ramblings of talking heads about #COVID19

    Apr 15, 2020
    Need to read this! Why stock markets are behaving the way they are now. https://t.co/EiBThe301h

    Apr 16, 2020
    Please remind me to #StayHome in a mansion next time. At least can add Swimming Pool and Japanese Garden stops 

    Apr 16, 2020
    All my American & Canadian friends are talking about their stimulus money and I am looking at my empty pockets. Sadness

    Apr 16, 2020
    The #MovementControlOrder has made animal rescue challenging. Planning this poor cat’s rescue & trip to the vet has been a logistical adventure. Hope to do it soon. Any folks willing to foster this cat in Subang Jaya do let me know.

    Apr 18, 2020
    Tuxie (above) was wandering around my apartment complex with a festering wound on his back. He’s now at the vet’s in Subang Jaya  getting treatment. He’s a sweet & gentle boy! Very docile. H needs a forever home once he’s all better. Pls retweet! #CatsOfTwitter #catrescue

    Apr 18, 2020
    (Left) Freshly picked spinach & sweet potato leaves from the garden. If there’s one thing I am grateful for during this #MCO is that I learned the value of growing my own vegetables. I think everyone should have a plot of vegetables no matter how small. It’s really empowering.

    Apr 19, 2020
    What did I do this during the #MovementControlOrder ? Rescue a cat. Meet Tuxie. He needs a home btw, so if you’re interested, drop me a DM! https://t.co/6JGnK8aOD1

    Apr 23, 2020
    So sad and tragic that 3 healthcare workers died from Covid-19  https://t.co/4BIyyWho3J

    Apr 24, 2020
    Never thought I would be one of those folks baking artisan bread. With a toaster oven, mind you.

    Apr 24, 2020
    I was also hankering for some mantao so I made some.

    Apr 26, 2020
    I was determined to DO NOTHING during #MovementControlOrder but ended up

    1. Starting freelance writing biz
    2. Cooking like mad
    3. Starting indoor garden
    4. Rescuing injured cat
    5. Completing online courses
    6. Cleaning & decluttering
      Did try to be a @netflix potato but failed.

    Apr 26, 2020
    Haven’t had time to see this poor lil dear. (His name is Tuxie.) Whisked him off the streets to get treated at the nearby vet last week. Hope he’s doing well. PS: Anyone keen to adopt him? He’s a beautiful, gentle cat!

    Apr 30, 2020
    Is there ever a “right” time to finally go for your dreams? Here’s one thing I learned: You can’t wait for life to get perfect before you embrace your calling. Because life happens.

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  • Lockdown diaries, March 2020

    These are rescued tweets from Twitter. I mostly journaled throughout the lockdowns through Twitter.

    Mar 13, 2020
    Today in my mind … #COVID19

    Mar 15, 2020
    “Attending” church service virtually today. Technology is amazing! Interestingly, this is practice is frowned upon. Churches prefer you to be physically in church – they believe people need to be in community. But this option is invaluable during #coronavirus

    Image

    March 15, 2020
    Pastors who are preaching that “you just gotta have faith” & not shut down church services … let’s just say I am eyeing you in a certain way right now.

    Mar 16, 2020, afternoon
    “The government will convene a special Covid-19 meeting at 5pm today to discuss further measures needed to contain infections.”
    5pm. Are you kidding me??

    Mar 16, 2020, afternoon
    Now he’s gonna make the big announcement at 10pm. Eff, where’s the urgency omg seriously.

    Mar 16, 2020, afternoon
    Andddd it’s late. Malaysian timing eh?

    Mar 16, 2020, afternoon
    Well #LockDownMalaysia has happened. But I am unclear about the rules. What, am I supposed to stay at home 24/7? What?

    Mar 16, 2020, evening
    The panic buying has begun. Aeon 1Utama. Trolleys have run out, no chicken, tissues are running out (WTF for), queues until forever.

    Hello toilet paper hoarders. Don’t panic if the stock runs out. Here’s how to wipe your butt for free: https://t.co/548ynxd15i

    One day … someone is going to write a PhD thesis on the 2020 panic buying of toilet paper

    “Aeon will make tonnes of money,” says a girl at Aeon 1 Utama. Out of the mouth of babes… #panicshopping

    So I am a minimalist. I often practice “pantry challenges” where I eat everything from my fridge & pantry. So I have very little food at home, just enough to last a week. My parents are more or less the same. So when I stock up it’s genuinely cos I have no food at home.

    If you are buying supplies, shop responsibly. Please buy non-perishables like rice, flour, instant noodles and beans. But in reasonable amounts, k? No need to stock till 2022.

    Mar 16, 2020
    Haiya my dad went to the pharmacy to buy his meds cos he doesn’t have enough to last two weeks. Lots of people there  pls wash your hands dad!!

    Mar 17, 2020
    Hai panic buying still going on. I just wanna buy bread & yogurt y’all!!

    March 18, 2020
    The Earth is getting a break. From us.

    Mar 18, 2020
    Malaysians: it’s not a lockdown! It’s a restricted movement order!
    Fact: Malaysians can’t leave the country.
    Like it or not, it’s a lockdown. A partial one. I suspect they call it #MovementControlOrder to reduce panic.
    Ps: not working

    Mar 18, 2020
    Day 1 of #restrictedmovementorder. How is everyone doing? #COVID2019 (I made a video to record my thoughts on the “historic” event.)

    Mar 18, 2020
    Day 1 of #RestrictedMovementOrder
    My video-gaming bro: Wheeeee
    The outdoor gardener me: 

    Mar 18, 2020
    Me: I made lunch. Have some.
    Bro:  backs away slowly

    I feel you, bro. I feel you.

    Mar 19, 2020
    Well I took an afternoon nap at 5pm & woke up at 5am today  How in the world did that happen?? But wow I sure needed it. Phew. Well rested now.

    Mar 19, 2020
    Day 1 of #RestrictedMovementOrder was a success for me. Didn’t go out at all, which is a miracle for an extrovert like me. #stayathome

    Mar 19, 2020
    If you feel like helping during the #RestrictedMovementOrder here’s a list of organisations you can volunteer with: https://t.co/zreXu4OeK5

    Mar 19, 2020
    While #RestrictedMovementOrder Day 1 was a success for me cos I didn’t go out, it was a fail productivity wise. Hope to get a few @LinkedIn Learning courses done & upload chap1 of that novella I wrote.

    Mar 19, 2020
    Wonder if #ChicagoMed will have a #covid19 episode? Heck a Chicago crossover event? Too soon?

    Mar 20, 2020
    This #CoronavirusOutbreak revealed to us how our man-made, modern systems are fragile. In the end, it is nature that will save us. Humanity has lost touch with the earth and its many creatures. It’s time to reclaim this lost skill – grow your own food.

    Mar 20, 2020
    Thank you very much @Scribd! I adore the book subscription service, especially when it comes to audiobooks. #COVID19malaysia

    Letter from Scribd CEO.

    Mar 20, 2020
    Oh dear kena hantam on twitter for saying that there’s confusion about whether jogging is allowed and that in US it is. I said we should err on the side of caution anyway but apparently nobody read that! Lol

    Ok had to delete the tweet. Urgh, Malaysians are incapable of a discussion at all. I mean, it IS Twitter, but sometimes I think far too highly of humanity for my own good…

    Context, added 20 Jan 2023: A doctor was fined while jogging for not wearing a mask. I argued that it was okay not to wear a mask while outdoors. Everyone on Twitter basically called me an imbecile. Today, I wear a mask while outdoors, mostly to prevent dust allergies! And I think extra caution doesn’t hurt.

    Mar 20, 2020
    Twitter is a wee triggering right now. Everyone is screaming, WE ARE EFFED.

    Mar 27, 2020
    We complain about how #COVID2019 was handled in Malaysia. But am thankful that:

    • @KKMPutrajaya is efficient & on top of things
    • we have one of the best public healthcare systems in the world.
      If we had a healthcare system like the US we would be truly effed

    Mar 27, 2020
    It’s heartbreaking that Americans had to go through this. Double whammy – lose your job & your health insurance. What am anxiety-provoking way to live! https://t.co/3ncnsLED0s

     Mar 27, 2020

    Ah my darlings, you are growing so well! Yes I talk to my plants. That’s what you do when you are under lockdown and have no pets.

    Mar 27, 2020
    SERIOUSLY?? Is that how a leader reassures it’s people?

    Mar 27, 2020
    News are pouring out of the US on Twitter from healthcare workers, ordinary Joes and Janes about people getting infected, am dying or dead. My heart goes out to all of you.

    Mar 27, 2020
    Before the RMO I walked 10-13k steps a day. Now not even 1k. Oh man do I feel it!! 

    Mar 28, 2020
    Leftover dahl with roti paratha (the one you buy from the frozen section). Meal is probably about $1.50. Totally yummy! Mum was saying that I need to learn to eat simple food (all because I ordered some food deliveries yesterday)

    Mar 28, 2020
    Shopping for the elders today. Asked them to WhatsApp me their lists and they sent me photos of their paper lists. It’s very meta.

    Mar 28, 2020
    Was “wakil keluarga” for the parents & other elderly relatives (grocery run). Noticed a significant uptick in the crowds at Aeon Big today. Guess they are restocking for 2 more weeks of #MovementControlOrder.

    Mar 29, 2020
    Church during #MovementControlOrder
    Me: Time for church
    Bro: Ya. (Heads to room and switches on computer)
    Me: (Chromecasts church’s livestream to TV)

    Mar 29, 2020
    I rather like this worship – church unplugged, without the razzle dazzle, no light show or smoke effects.

    Mar 29, 2020
    The ozone layer is actually healing due to the lockdowns in many countries due to #COVID19 https://t.co/1UziZpmqId

    Mar 29, 2020
    If I had gone on to train as an enrolled nurse I would probably be in the frontline fighting #COVID19. You know what? I wished I could be there helping.

    Mar 29, 2020
    Ok I suddenly remember the plotline of a book u read about an environmental terrorist who released a virus to force civilization to stop polluting the environment.

    Mar 29, 2020
    This MCO is making me cook fancier meals than I usually do. (Cooking is now the most exciting activity of the day.) This is Thai minced pork with basil. Wish I had chillis tho. It’s not spicy enough – but this is still yummy!

    Mar 29, 2020
    I think I am gonna make bread next. In a rice cooker.

    Mar 30, 2020
    My brain: I need to go to the grocery store.
    Me: why
    My brain: baking powder.
    Me: That’s not essential.
    My brain: What about chocolates?
    Me: nope
    Brain: ice cream ?
    Me: double nope
    Brain: chips???
    Me: … I thought you were supposed to help me survive, not drown me in sugar

    Mar 31, 2020
    Lunch! No not spinach from my garden but from the market. There’s hardly any green veg left that when I saw this – a lone bunch left around closing time, I felt I needed to rescue it.

    Mar 31, 2020
    Doraemon is trending Dying of laughter as I read the Doraemon tweets. Never change, Twitterjaya. Never change.

    Context, added on 20 Jan 2023: This Buzzfeed article puts it best: Put Makeup On. Wear Tight Clothes. Speak Like A Cartoon Cat: How Women Are Being Told To Behave Around Their Husbands Under Lockdown.

    And, unfortunately, this was the official lockdown advice from Malaysia’s women’s ministry.

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