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. 

Repairing broken part on multimeter

Captured on the evening of 3 October 2024:

• Before Repair: Front and back views of the multimeter prior to repair.

• After Repair: Restored functionality and appearance.

A simple Philips screwdriver was used for this task. Enjoy working on multimeter repairs in the lab!

🖥️ “Old but Not Obsolete”: A Quick Fix on a Vintage Windows Vista PC

This moment was captured on the afternoon of 27 May 2025, right after an intern diploma student mentioned he couldn't figure out how to take a screenshot on a Windows Vista computer. Where it was connected to the CNC machine in the PCB lab.

It took me less than a minute to get the screenshot done. No command prompt needed, no complicated steps. Just good old knowledge and muscle memory from the days of floppy disks. As someone who began using computers in the pre-USB era and holds a degree in Computer Engineering, I couldn’t help but feel a little proud. Sometimes, experience really does speak for itself.

Apparently, even ChatGPT couldn’t provide the answer he needed. And like a friend of mine said: Well, ChatGPT wasn’t around in the ’90s.

This whole encounter reminded me of a phrase made iconic by Arnold Schwarzenegger in Terminator Genisys: “Old but not obsolete.”

Arnold used it to emphasize that even though something or someone that may be aging, they’re far from irrelevant. That line couldn’t be more fitting in moments like this.

Until then, here’s to keeping old skills sharp and remembering that sometimes, the most timeless tools are the ones we’ve carried the longest. 👨‍💻💾

📝 Editing PDF Documents with Adobe

On the morning of 22 September 2025, I tried editing a PDF using Adobe. And honestly, it made life so much easier. No more struggling with converting files or looking for free online tools that don’t always work.

It was definitely worth the money I spent on the app. Everything feels seamless, and being able to quickly make changes to PDF files as needed saves me a lot of time and stress.

Sometimes, the right tool really is worth the investment.

Sweetness Test of My Harum Manis Mango

Last noon of 9 October 2025, just able to finished testing the Brix level of my freshly harvested Harum Manis mango. And the reading came out between 17 to 18° Brix! That means it’s beautifully sweet and perfectly ripe, just as expected from this variety.

The flavor is rich, honey-like, and smooth. Truly worth all the effort and care spent nurturing the tree. Each bite tastes like a reward for months of watering, pruning, and waiting for the right moment to harvest.

However, it’s important to note that this sweetness level (17–18° Brix) is not diabetes-friendly (disclaimer). As it indicates a high natural sugar content.

So, while it’s a delight for mango lovers, those watching their blood sugar should enjoy it only in moderation.

Until the next harvest, here’s to the joy of growing, tasting, and celebrating your own fruits at home.

Reference:

[1] Harvested mango last 8 October 2025 https://serinurulbeauty.blogspot.com/2025/10/morning-harvest-harum-manis-mango-from.html

Morning Harvest: Harum Manis Mango from My Own Tree

In the morning of 8 October 2025, I spent some time harvesting fruits from my self-planted Harum Manis mango tree at home. And managed to pick four lovely mangoes.

The heaviest weigh 565.5 gm. Followed by 456.8 gm, 446.3 gm and 206.3 gm.
The shape isn’t as curvy as those from Perlis, but that’s understandable. I only have one Harum Manis tree, and there are no other Harum Manis trees nearby. So, cross-pollination with other mango varieties might have influenced the shape. The environment here in Johor, with its different climate compared to Perlis, could also be a contributing factor.

Still, the fruits turned out beautifully. They’re sweet, fragrant, and have smooth, clean skin. Free from the usual sticky sap or blemishes. Friends who saw the pictures even complimented how neat and healthy they looked. That definitely made me feel proud. It feels like all the care, time, and effort I put into tending this tree have truly paid off.

Regardless of the shape, the taste and quality are satisfying. Nothing beats the joy of harvesting your own home-grown mangoes.

Until then, happy harvesting to all who grow their own fruits at home! 🌼🥭

🌀 The Downside of Using an Ultra High-Speed Fan

Entry made on the noon of 3 July 2025.

So here’s something they don’t mention when you buy an ultra high-speed fan. When a hair getting trapped inside.

I noticed it yesterday, but only this morning did I manage to get a closer look and try removing it. It was a struggle. I’d say I only managed to pull out about 30% of the trapped hair so far. The design is super slim, which makes it nearly impossible to insert bending forceps or bending tweezers properly. I ended up using an earpick, which was oddly the most effective tool I had on hand. On top of the honeycomb hole noise reduction design. Which makes it impossible to clean through the back side.

Still experimenting with what tool works best for this particular portable fan model. It’s a little frustrating, but I guess it’s part of owning high-speed gadgets. With small design, big airflow, tight corners.

Also it does hurt very much when it accidentally falls on my feet after Zohor prayer of 4 July 2025. Fortunately it does not bruise my aging right feet.

Until then, have fun figuring out how to clean your ultra high-speed fan. If you’ve found a clever tool that works, I’d love to know!

Work setup after 6 pm

This is taken on the evening of 25 February 2025. Where I managed to stay back after 6 pm to finished up my work. This is the work setup look.

I am staying in the vecad lab common area. As I wanted to have other working environment to finished up my work. Where the submission is less than 5 days time.

I have to turn on my portable fan. Since the central air-conditioning turn off after 6 pm time daily. And since the common area do not have split unit, I have to resort by turning on my portable fan to cool myself down. And it is a good investment. Since the wind from the fan is sufficiently strong. Plus the fan is less noisy than my other model.

Until then, have fun in finishing up your work for submission. 

📚 When Templates Are Ignored, Horror Happens

On the morning of 25 September 2025, I spent 1 hour and 55 minutes reading through an undergraduate student’s work report. And let me tell you, it was pure horror.

The student had been instructed to use the UTM thesis template, which already comes with all the correct formatting built in. The beauty of the template is that it does the heavy lifting: margins, fonts, heading styles, and even the table of contents update automatically. All the student needed to do was use it.

But no. The prepared formatting was deleted, and everything was done manually instead. The result? A report where even the table of contents has to be updated line by line, page by page. Something that could have taken seconds now takes hours.

This is what happens when people don’t understand, or don’t want to understand of the tools given to them. Despite clear instructions already included in the template, they decided to go their own way. The reader, of course, ends up tired and annoyed. And yes, this kind of attitude can directly affect marks.

By this stage, students are already adults. They need to be responsible for their own work, their grades, and ultimately, their future. Unfortunately, many only realize the value of discipline and precision after entering the workplace. where sometimes too late.

From my own experience, good documentation habits made a huge difference when I was involved in bid management. Once a project was secured and handed over to the project team, no one came back to ask me questions. Because everything they needed was in the handover documents. That’s something I take pride in.

Not everyone may feel the same way about documentation, but here’s my final advice: follow the instructions given. Use the tools provided. They’re there to help, not to make life harder.

A Surprise Encounter at IVAT

I was on my way to the toilet in P06, IVAT, at noon of 12 September 2025, when someone suddenly called out and chased after me. He asked if I remembered him. Honestly, I didn’t. So I told him so.

Then he explained that he used to be in my class. At first, I thought he had mistaken me for someone else, since I was never a lecturer at UTM. But then he mentioned the microprocessor class, and it finally clicked. I used to help my supervisor take over that class whenever he was unavailable.

He also mentioned a classmate’s name that I remembered clearly, which confirmed it. He told me that he graduated with his degree back in 2018, and now, since 2023, he has been working as a staff member at IVAT, FKE, UTM. What a full circle moment!

He even said he still had my number. I asked him to text me so that we could arrange a proper meet-up later, maybe even with my supervisor, to catch up. He also shared that when he told his old coursemates he met me, they immediately sent their regards.

Before we parted, I asked him to take a selfie with me. Just so I can remember faces better next time. Age has made me realize that I need to document more of these little moments.

Until then, I’ll treasure these surprise encounters. It’s always a joy to reconnect with graduated students and see where life has taken them.

Cooking Sausage in the Oven (with a Little Microwave Help)

On 28 August 2025, my lab mate asked me how to cook sausages in the oven. He complained that even at maximum temperature, the sausages were still raw while the cheese slices he added on top were already burnt.

I had to explain to him that different foods have different materials and thickness. By logic, the thinner ones (like cheese) will cook much faster compared to something denser (like sausages). Which I have suggested to slice the sausage thinly next time.

I told him to try Googling or even asking ChatGPT for better instructions. Because that’s what I usually do. From there, I tweak the method to suit my own routine. For example, I prefer planning ahead. I’ll pop the sausages in the microwave for 2–3 minutes first, then transfer them into the oven at 150°C for 5–10 minutes.

While the oven works, I take the chance to go to the toilet and perform my Zohor prayer. By the time I’m done, the sausages are perfectly cooked and ready to eat. No waiting, no stress. Just efficient multitasking.

That’s how I like to manage my cooking: plan the time, plan the route, and make sure that when my task is finished, I can enjoy my meal in peace. Creativity and a bit of optimization make all the difference during lunch breaks.

Until then, have fun experimenting with your oven and microwave. You’ll be surprised at how much easier mealtime becomes when you plan it right.

Testing 2 make up items

This is taken on the morning of 30 April 2025. Before leave the house. Where I managed to remember to take pictures of the applied make up for that day.

Selfie outside UTM Career Fair venue upon finished registration. It was 1.50 pm at that time.

The look of the matte lipstick in code 15 (DFOR DANGER). In the pictures, looks like hot pink. But when I wear it, it gravitate to more reddish colour.

The look of eyebrow cream in code 2 (Chocolate).

Selfie at Intel booth.

Taking picture with Dr Suhana before she enter the venue.

Until then, have fun in testing new make up items.

Laptop Battery Replacement Experience

On 22 August 2025, my laptop battery finally gave out and the device completely shut down. A few days later, on 25 August, I brought it to a shop for a replacement. The technician told me the new battery would take about two weeks to arrive once ordered.

By 1 September 2025, I received a WhatsApp message asking for my laptop password so they could test the system after installing the new battery. Just 12 minutes later, another message came through: “Your laptop is ready for collection.”

The next day, 2 September 2025, I went to collect it. Right there at the shop, I tested my laptop on the spot to make sure everything was in order. This was important because one shop had previously suggested I format my laptop and even buy a new SSD. Something unnecessary, as proven true.

I was so relieved. And even happier to find out I managed to get the replacement at half the price compared to other shops, with the same warranty duration. A smooth and satisfying experience overall!

Lesson learned: be cautious when sending your laptop for repair, and always double-check before agreeing to extra services.

Logic probe to check short circuit

The following took place on 22 January 2025 at noon, when I finally had the opportunity to use the logic probe, which was borrowed from the Digital Lab with the assistance of one student. After being suggested by the lecturer as troubleshooting tool. I successfully demonstrated its use to a student experiencing an unstable display on their SDK V4 board, identifying the short-circuited area that required soldering to achieve a more stable connection.

The student who borrowed the logic probe was unfamiliar with its operation. This highlights the importance of understanding how to use advanced tools—having the right equipment is ineffective without the knowledge to operate it properly.

The soldering on the IC socket leads in the circular area appears insufficient.

Following the demonstration, the rest of the students became motivated to repair the connections on their own SDK V4 boards.

I encourage them to continue learning and experimenting with the logic probe to enhance their skills.

The effort that I have put on last week for submission day

This entry is made on the morning of 11 March 2025, to document the process and effort I put in during the final week leading up to my submission day.

I began by setting up my workspace in the VECAD Lab common area on 24 February 2025, to create a new environment that would help improve my focus. This location provided easy access to hot drinks, restroom facilities, and my main lab, allowing me to retrieve any necessary items for my work.

Workspace Setup on 24 February 2025:

I arranged my 5 meter extension cord to ensure easy access to power for both my laptop and phone while positioning myself to face the door instead of sitting with my back to it, avoiding any unexpected distractions.

Weekend Efforts & Work Strategy:

During the weekends, I put in extra effort by adjusting my sleep schedule. By sleeping early and waking up early to maximize productivity. Since I was fasting, I utilized the time before Imsak to eat, drink, and continue working.

For daytime work sessions, I implemented a structured approach:

• Work for at least 1 hour, followed by a 30-40 minute break to rest my eyes and brain before resuming.
• When feeling too exhausted, I stopped working and instead updated my checklists while resting.

Managing Sleep & Health:

Throughout this period, I consistently took magnesium taurate and magnesium glycinate alternately, which significantly helped with energy levels and recovery, especially during periods of limited sleep. The shortest sleep duration recorded was 2 hours and 46 minutes on 4 March 2025.

This structured approach, combined with nutritional support and strategic breaks, helped me push through the final stretch of my submission preparation.

Meet Up with a Lab Mate

On the afternoon of 27 August 2025, I had the chance to reconnect with one of my old lab mates from the 2011 to 2013 days. He now works at a public university in Semarang and happened to be in Skudai for a meeting earlier in the day. Later tonight, he’ll be heading to KL for another meeting tomorrow. Such a packed schedule!

The last time I saw him was before Covid-19, probably around 2019. A lot has changed since then. He looks noticeably slimmer now, thanks to cutting out sugar and carbs from his daily routine. A lifestyle shift that really shows.

Picture taken from my friend phone.

Picture taken from my phone.

It felt refreshing to catch up after all these years, sharing updates on life and reminiscing about our lab days. Encounters like these remind me how important it is to pause and reconnect. At the end of the day, it’s good to know that we are both still here, well, and moving forward with life.

Until then, here’s to more chances to meet old friends and create new memories.