Happy New Year! Or... just another Tuesday?

Happy New Year, everyone! Honestly, I’ve reached a stage where big celebrations don't hit the same anymore. Whether it’s New Year, Raya, or Thaipusam, life feels like a repetitive cycle: wake up, settle everything, sleep, repeat.

Don’t get me wrong—I actually love the routine. As the sole breadwinner for my 5 kids, routine equals stability. It means fewer "bad surprises," and in my world, I really can't afford any extra drama. #iykyk

More picture on: Facebook

Last week, I took the boys for a short getaway around JB. We couldn't go far due to the usual constraints—time, energy, and budget—but seeing the joy on their faces was worth it. We hit up Petrosains PlaySmart two days in a row, mall-hopped, spent hours in the pool, and even checked out the new Kota Jail. It was simple, but it was exactly what we needed. I’ve been posting the highlights on Facebook; the "Memories" feature is basically my digital scrapbook. I think I’ll definitely be uploading more this year—it's nice to look back when things get tough.

Speaking of tough, my 2025 recap had some bumps. I was back in the hospital last year. After months of dealing with on-and-off gastritis, the doctors found a several gallbladder stone; again. The fix? Surgery.

But as a lone ranger, "surgery" isn't just about the medical cost—it’s the cost of time. Who will manage the kids? Who will handle my work responsibilities? For now, I’m managing it through a very strict diet to keep the nausea at bay. I’m "stable but fragile," just taking it one day at a time and leaving the rest to God. Jalan terus.

On a brighter note, career-wise, 2025 was a blessing. I landed a new role that tripled my previous salary! Plus, it’s much closer to home. No more driving 100km a day or burning RM1,000 a month on tolls and petrol. I loved my old job—working close to nature was a dream—but the new opportunity was a door I had to walk through. Alhamdulillah, I’ve even had two increments in less than a year!

Every job has its "downside," but I am choosing gratitude. For 2026, I don't have a massive manifesto. My only wish? That my kids and I stay happy and healthy. That’s enough for me.