Process of cutting md2 pineapple for consumption

This is taken on the noon of 27 February 2025. Where I managed to cut 1 from 3 unit md2 pineapple. Which I bought yesterday evening.

A light snack before lunch.

The process of cutting md2 pineapple for consumption.

I start by sharpening the used knife with whetstone. Then I washed both whetstone and knife after finished sharpening process. Then the knife smoothly cut the md2 pineapple skin like butter. Worth time spend in sharpening the knife before used.

Until then, have fun in cutting md2 pineapple for consumption.

🥚 Morning Meal Prep: Egg Sandwiches & Accidental Generosity

This was my cozy morning routine on 24 February 2025, when I prepared a quick and satisfying breakfast. Which is homemade egg sandwiches and a rich cup of DIY coffee with cocoa powder.

🍳 The Process:

I started by washing 5 eggs to steam them into hard-boiled perfection. Once peeled, the total weight of 4 eggs came to 202.4 grams (yes, I measured it!). 

Self made coffee drink that I add cocoa powder.

The weight of 4 hard boiled eggs.

I then mixed in 35.4 grams of Thousand Island sauce for a creamy, tangy twist.

While there was an online discussion happening next door in the lab, I quietly mashed the eggs outside the VECAD pantry. As I do not want to cause any disruption.

🥪 The Egg Sandwich Outcome:

The sandwiches turned out wonderfully. Soft, flavorful, and perfectly satisfying. But here’s the funny part: I had planned to eat just two sandwiches. But accidentally ate three! I blame multitasking and hunger, the curse of eating while busy.

I did manage to share one with a fellow PhD student, and the remaining two were eagerly accepted by a colleague whose lunch order had been mixed up (he ordered chicken rice but got nasi ayam penyet instead).

☕ Final Thoughts:

This breakfast was unexpectedly fulfilling, not just for me but for the people around me too. And it led to a spontaneous tea break later when we returned to the shop to fix the lunch order!

Until then, may your mornings be filled with simple joys, shared food, and egg sandwiches worth waking up for.

Reminder why important to check D flip-flop polarity before you solder!

This is an important reminder as per today, 22 December 2025. Please double-check the polarity of the D flip-flop before soldering it onto the board.

Why it matters: Soldering it with the wrong polarity can damage other parts of the board. It could burn out the voltage regulator, cause the electrolytic capacitors to fail, or worst of all, end up fry the main Black Pill microcontroller.

Where to look: The correct placement is shown on Page 51 of the guide. Based on the position marking on the PCB, the chip should be placed at the bottom of its footprint.

Common mistake: Do not place the position marking up near the 1 kΩ SMD resistor. That is the wrong spot and polarity.

Final reference: Always compare your work with the picture of the fully assembled board on Page 5 to make sure everything is in the right place.

Taking one minute to check this now can save hours of troubleshooting and repairing damage later.

At the end of the day, there’s no point in blaming components or the PCB. Sometimes the culprit has been holding the soldering iron all along.

Better safe than sorry is the best practice here.

🔌 Testing a 100W USB-C Cable for Phone & Laptop Charging

Taken on the afternoon of 17 June 2025, I finally got to deliver the 3-meter 100W USB-C cable to my customer for a live test. We wanted to confirm if it could handle both super-fast phone charging and laptop power delivery. And it didn’t disappoint!

The results were impressive:

✅ When connected to a 65W fast charger, it successfully delivered super-fast charging to his phone.

💻 It also able to charged his Lenovo ThinkBook laptop without any hiccups.

The customer was clearly happy. Not just with the cable's performance but with the convenience of getting the right cable delivered and tested on the spot.

If you're in the market for a reliable long cable that handles both your phone and laptop, a certified 100W USB-C cable is definitely worth it.

Until next time, have fun choosing the right tech accessories that keep your devices powered up! ⚡✨

Additional 2 items for my make up set

This is taken on the evening of 29 April 2025. Where I managed to take pictures of the received 2 items. 1 of them is pink lip crayon. Another is eyebrow gel in code chocolate. 

Love both of them.

Until then, have fun adding new items to your make up collection.

Nice fit of 80 pieces kitchen cleaning wipes into this plastic bag

This is taken in the morning of 6 March 2025. Where I managed to remember to take pictures of the used plastic bag to store 80 pieces kitchen cleaning wipes. 

I discover this method after more than 2 packs of dried wet wipes. Even when the wet wipes have lid on its package. 

One thing I noticed is the wet tissue never dried up after using this method. Which saves me a whole lot for a long run.

Until then, have fun in using good plastic bag for your wet wipes storage.

Seeking dental care for my teeth

Captured on the morning of 14 March 2025, this photo marks my visit to the dental clinic to seek care after noticing hairline cracks on both of my upper front teeth, with the right one showing a small chip at the bottom.

Broken tooth from [1]

Initially, I went to my previous dental clinic at Klinik Taman Tun Aminah, 1174, Jalan Pendekar 2, Taman Ungku Tun Aminah, only to find that it had been converted into a Klinik Desa serving mothers and children. After asking the nurse on duty, I was directed to the Skudai Baru Health Clinic (Klinik Kesihatan Skudai Baru), where the dental department is located on the first floor.

This new dental clinic is impressive — a comprehensive facility similar to Pusat Kesihatan Taman Universiti, but with a larger, more modern space. I was even able to park comfortably in the clinic’s own parking lot.

Appointments must be made via the MySejahtera app, as walk-ins are limited to only 20 patients per day, with the queue starting as early as 7.00 am.

I was advised to get an X-ray of my front teeth to assess the extent of the damage and determine if the cracks had reached the nerve layer.

Following the X-ray, the dental officer recommended and administered a fluoride treatment on my upper front teeth. I was advised not to gargle for at least one hour afterward to allow the treatment to take full effect. Effectively replacing my fast that day.

Until then, remember to take good care of your precious teeth. Prevention is always better than treatment.

References:

[1] Broken tooth image https://mynjdentist.com/conditions/broken-tooth/

A Facilitator's Diary: Navigating the SMD Soldering Marathon with 10 Groups

Friday, 5 December 2025, was a marathon. A long, technically demanding, and ultimately rewarding day spent monitoring the SMD soldering work for 10 out of 11 groups in my Microprocessor class. This hands-on assignment is done in PCB lab where theory meets the delicate tip of a soldering iron, and today, our journey began with Component Group 1: the formidable Black Pill board. Started from 8 am to 1 pm. Continued 3 pm to 5 pm.

The Plan: Solder, Check, Blink

The objective was clear, a sequence I meticulously outlined for every group:

1. Solder the Black Pill onto its carrier board.

2. Check every connection under the magnifier for bridges or cold joints.

3. Program it to complete the rite of passage: making the onboard LED blink.

A Late-November Win: Why This Face Oil is a Game-Changer for Mature Skin

What a perfect way to wrap up November! Just before leaving the lab today, I finished an order for two 25 ml bottles of our signature face oil [1]. It’s always so fulfilling to send off a product knowing it’s going to someone who truly loves it.

I’ll admit, there was a small hiccup, my trusty portable printer was gasping for ink by the end! Note to self: figure out how to replenish that ink supply, ASAP.

But that little challenge was well worth it. The best part of this work? Hearing from our wonderful customers, many in their 40s and 50s, who keep coming back. Their feedback is the real proof: they consistently tell me how much this oil helps their mature skin.

And I can personally vouch for that.

As someone with mature skin myself, I’ve seen a huge difference. My skin is noticeably calmer and more resilient. Now, that doesn’t mean I’m immune to breakouts, especially when my hormones decide to go haywire during my cycle or as I navigate perimenopause. Add in a lack of sleep or feeling unwell, and my skin definitely lets me know.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned? The recovery rate for mature skin is at least 50% slower than it was in my 30s. That reality is exactly why a consistent, thoughtful skincare routine is non-negotiable for me.

This commitment paid off in a big way just last week at my convocation. With my skin in a good place, my makeup applied smoothly. I used less product, and it didn’t settle into my fine lines and wrinkles. It was a win!

While people often tell me I have "good skin," what they don't see is the daily effort behind it. Consistency is everything. I’ve learned to listen to my skin and my body, normalizing daily notes and even pictures to track any changes. It’s my way of staying proactive and maintaining my skin’s best condition.

So, if you’re on your own skincare journey, remember to be kind to your skin. Listen to what it needs, and don't underestimate the power of a great face oil.

Until next time, have fun pampering your skin.

Reference:

[1] My face oil https://serinurulbeauty.blogspot.com/2025/05/3rd-batch-of-improvised-face-oil.html

A Surprise Guest: My Mango Tree is Blooming Again!

Talk about a wonderful way to end the day! I got home a little early this evening of 26 November 2025 and decided to have a look at my garden. To my absolute delight, I spotted tiny new flower buds forming on my mango tree!

It feels like it was just yesterday that we were enjoying the last harvest. I checked my notes, and it was actually 17 October 2025 when we picked the final fruit. It’s been such a busy season that I haven't even had the chance to give the tree its usual post-harvest trim.

Yet, here it is, full of ambition and ready for another round, all on its own. Nature’s resilience never ceases to amaze me.

Now, for the hopeful part. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that these little buds will make it all the way to becoming juicy mangoes. The fact that we’re having frequent night-time rains lately it is a quite a hard sign. Fingers crossed for a bountiful season ahead!

Until then, the gentle, rewarding work of tending continues. There’s nothing quite like the quiet joy of watching a tree you care for decide it’s time to bloom.

To all my fellow gardeners out there, have fun tending to your own green companions! You never know what lovely surprise might be waiting for you.

Nasi Lemak from Pasar Taman Universiti – Finally Got the Real Shot!

 19 June 2025, Morning Update

Snapped these pictures this morning. A freshly packed nasi lemak from Pasar Taman Universiti. I had been meaning to do this ever since a friend asked me about it two days ago. I tried searching online, but the photos I found just didn’t meet my standards. They are blurry, unclear, and definitely not the kind of shots that do justice to the real thing.

So, I decided to head out and get my own. There’s something satisfying about capturing the actual product. From the neatly wrapped packaging to the delicious sambal peeking through. Now I finally have the photos that truly show what makes this local favourite special.

Will be posting more soon if I get my hands on different variations. Until then, here’s to all the nasi lemak lovers out there. Nothing beats the real thing!

Portable fan as part of tool used daily

On the morning of 4 April 2025, I decided to test out my trusty portable fan. I switched it on at 9:40 AM and kept it running until 12:50 PM.

At the start, the battery showed 75%, and by the end of the session it dropped to 35%. Throughout the test, I set the fan on wind speed level 3 out of 5.

A good little check to see how well the battery holds up for a few solid hours of use!

Today’s Makeup Routine & Thoughts

In the morning of 5 November 2025, I wanted to document today’s makeup routine so I can track what works and what needs tweaking. Especially for my combination, maturing skin. Here’s the full sequence I followed this morning:

🧴 Skin Prep & Base

• Washed my face using Facial Wash with niacinamide.
• Applied moisturizing serum for a brightening boost.
• Layered aloe vera moisturizing gel as a hydrating mask.
• Applied face oil under the eyes and on the lips first, then spread the remaining over the entire face for nourishment.
• Applied sunscreen generously.
• Spritzed setting spray to help grip the base.

🎨 Makeup Application

• Applied 0.5 pump of foundation using fingers. 
• Added concealer under the eyes.
• Another light mist of setting spray.
• Set everything with loose powder all over the face and double-checked the under-eye area.
• Filled in eyebrows with brow gel.
• Lined the top waterline with black pencil.
• Used brow gel as eyeliner.
• Applied the darkest brown shade (on the right) to the outer eye corners for depth.
• Applied Elianto Blush in Desert Rose, then layered a soft pink blush (SilkyGirl Shimmer Duo Blusher) on top for a fresher look.
• Added highlighter to the inner eye corners and top of the cheeks.
• Used shading/contour powder along the nose, under the blush, and along the jawline.
• Finished with another setting spray mist.

⏰ Started at 8:30 AM, finished at 9:00 AM.

✅ Conclusion & Self-Notes:

Overall, the finish looked better than yesterday, so the adjustments are working. However, a few improvements for next time:

✨ Use a damp makeup sponge to blend foundation more evenly, especially around textured areas.

✨ Include a primer to minimize visible pores. Especially around the T-zone and nose.

I also watched a makeup tutorial for women aged 70+, and it reminded me how much technique matters for mature skin. Layering lightly, hydrating well, and choosing the right textures truly make a difference.

Happy with today’s progress  slow improvements, but definitely moving in the right direction! 🌸

Still learning, experimenting, and embracing the journey.

My Makeup Routine This Morning: Keeping It Simple and Fresh

This morning of 30 October 2025, I decided to do a light makeup look. Something clean and fresh to let my skin breathe.

I started with my skincare routine: toner, serum, and moisturizer. Once that settled in, I sprayed a light layer of makeup setting spray to prep my skin, then applied sunscreen for protection.

For my base, I skipped foundation and concealer. Just kept it minimal. I applied my 2-way cake compact powder using the MUFE powder brush, and it went on so smoothly. I noticed there were no smudges or uneven spots, probably thanks to the mud mask I’ve been using. After four sessions, it really helped reduce the whiteheads on my nose area. The last time I used it was last night, and it made such a difference!

After the powder, I applied gold brown eyeliner, followed by blush using the MUFE blush brush, and finished with lipstick. I also dabbed a bit of pink lip balm on my lips and cheeks earlier for a soft glow.

To seal everything in, I sprayed another light mist of makeup setting spray. And that’s it. A simple, fresh look for the day. One thing I noticed, portable handheld fan really helps a lot to cut down processing and prepping time. 

This is part of my little preparation routine for my graduation day next month. Hopefully, my skin stays in good shape until then. Wish me luck! 💕

Lunch with grilled lamb sirloin and steamed rice

Taken on the noon of 22 May 2025. 

The fully cooked grilled lamb sirloin in BBQ sauce.

The cooked steamed rice.

Cooking process. Cook in temperature 120̇ C for 15 minutes in oven. 

Until then, have fun enjoying good cooked food for lunch consumption.

DIY Car & Room Freshener – My Essential Oil Blend Experiment

19 June 2025, Morning Notes

This morning, I finally succeeded in making my own car and room freshener using a blend of four essential oils: rose, sandalwood, lavender, and jasmine. It was a fun little project, born out of necessity. Life has been getting busier lately, and my usual go-to (freshly cut pandan leaves) only lasts about 3 to 5 days before losing its scent. Constantly needing to prepare a new batch became a bit too much.

Hang the freshener set inside the car I am using to leave it fragrant. After arrived parking lot student in P06, FKE in the morning. 

The setup for the freshener set for lab usage. 

So, I turned to essential oils. A more lasting and flexible option. The scent combo feels calming and slightly luxurious, perfect for both the car and my room. I’ll be updating soon on how long the fragrance holds up and how it performs in different spaces.

Until then, have fun creating your own custom blends! There’s something deeply satisfying about experimenting with scents that suit your mood and space.

Selfie of the day

This is taken in the morning of 21 May 2025. 

After open spectacles. Can see the obvious melasma on my cheek area. Regardless, I am satisfied with my matured yet clear skin condition.

Until then, have fun in taking selfie of your daily make up for self monitoring on the skin condition.

My new go-to Hydrating & Plumping Face Serum

My secret to a dewy, supple complexion for matured skin.

Meet my simple, yet incredibly powerful, hydrating serum. With just three superstar ingredients, this blend is a moisture magnet, working to plump fine lines and restore that coveted healthy glow. Best of all, it’s gentle enough for every single skin type.

The Magic Trio Inside:

• Rose Water: A natural soothing agent that calms redness, balances your skin’s pH, and provides the first layer of hydration.
• Glycerine: A brilliant humectant that acts like a moisture magnet, drawing water deep into the skin to keep it hydrated, soft, and supple all day long.
• Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that protects your skin from environmental stressors and helps to lock in all that precious moisture, supporting your skin’s natural barrier.

How To Use For Best Results:

Unlocking the full potential of this serum is all about technique. Follow these simple steps for maximum hydration:

1.  Apply to Damp Skin: Right after cleansing and toning, while your face is still slightly damp, dispense 3-4 drops into your palm.

2.  Press, Don’t Rub: Gently press the serum into your skin and neck. This helps the humectants pull the water deep into the skin layers.

3.  Seal It In: Immediately follow up with your favorite face oil or moisturizer. This final step is crucial. This helps it to "seals" all that hydration in, ensuring it doesn’t evaporate.

4.  Pro Makeup Tip: This is the perfect pre-makeup step! It creates a smooth, plump canvas, allowing your foundation to glide on flawlessly without settling into fine lines.

My Personal Experience:

After just one week of consistent use, the difference in my mature skin is undeniable. It feels more supple and resilient, looks noticeably moister, and has a clearer, more even tone. I also find it incredibly cooling and refreshing to apply, especially during hot and dry weather. An instant pick-me-up for my skin and my senses!

Give it a try and let your skin drink up the goodness.

My self made asam boi drink

This is taken last noon of 19 February 2025. Where I managed to make asam boi drink.

The look of the asam boi drink with ice cubes.

The look of used ingredients on the bottom of the jug.

The initial ingredients. Which I use 1 pack of 4 unit asam boi, 69.9 gm chopped lemongrass and 7 unit of spearmint leaves (5.1 gm). Then I add 450 ml warm water.

I do add lemon juice, lime juice and calamansi juice.

It was tasty for me. But my colleague said it is too sour and too much lemongrass. 

Until then, have fun in making your own asam boi drink.

🧩 Keil µVision Installation Problem: Missing Compiler 5

It all started after I shared the Keil µVision installation manual with the students on 9 October 2025. Everything seemed fine at first, until our class session on 15 October 2025. When several students reported encountering the “missing compiler 5” error during program build.

At that time, I reviewed their installation steps one by one, but the issue persisted. It wasn’t immediately clear whether the error came from a missing ARM toolchain component, a corrupted setup, or path configuration in Keil µVision.

By 29 October 2025, after our follow-up class, I noticed the problem still hadn’t been fully resolved. Between teaching, project supervision, and updating other course materials, I decided to dedicate some time to recheck the installation sequence myself in the morning 30 October 2025.

After about 40 minutes of testing, troubleshooting, and re-verifying the installation paths, I finally found the root cause; and the correct fix for the missing compiler 5 error. During that time, I also updated the installation manual with the corrected steps.

However, I haven’t shared the updated manual in the class Telegram group yet. Only a partial explanation and end result. were posted there. To help students who needed a quick reference what they should achieve in the end while I continue refining the full document for clarity and completeness.

Until then, have fun in trouble shooting error in Keil µVision.

Making mango yogurt smoothie diabetes version

This is taken on the morning of 28 May 2025. Where I managed to make mango yogurt smoothie diabetes version. I use 150 gm mango, 245 gm Greek yogurt, 120 gm coconut water+its flesh. Blend all. It taste better after 4 hours in fridge with added mango cubes from the balance.