Pardon the silence

I’m back and blogging!

It’s been quite a trying time in between kicking off the startup, overloading my university modules AND having to knock out a thesis. I’m surprised how it all came together at the end. In those times, sacrifice was really the name of the game.

All’s good now thanks to the immense support of people around me. It couldn’t be more liberating being out of school, finally being able to spend all my time actually learning and devoting my time to larger purposes and people.

Am back more inspired than ever. I’d also like to introduce a new co-author who’s been such an inspiration and pillar in my life. From him I’ve learned to better understand myself, love others, examine life more deeply and appreciate even more all the beautiful mysteries this world has to offer. Thanks Alam :)

Rising to a new dawn

One of the most beautiful things I look forward to, on my flights from Singapore to San Francisco, is getting to witness two sunrises in one day, in the air. It feels almost indulgent. The feeling of flying above the Pacific Ocean being lost in space and time – not knowing what time it is, or where exactly I am. You simply revel in the serenity of calming pastel shades, or take in the inspiration born from the clash of ravage colors in the sky.

Back in the bay area, nothing has changed. It feels like I’d never left?

Netherlands – Three Images

The San Francisco of Europe
Two Malay girls donning a hot pink tudung, spotting short mini skirts, audacious patterned stockings, and wearing their bras on the outside. It transported me back to one of those typical San Francisco love parades. A self-selecting crowd descends on this city where they can finally be understood. Add in the familiar smell of weed for full flavor.

World cup mania
Hup Holland Hup! The city decks itself in orange banners and streamers. An old man sits in his orange wheelchair with a beer in his hand. I noticed him a mile away because of the bright orange hat on his head shaped like a soccer ball. He spreads the world cup cheer to passerbys, mostly tourists who probably don’t understand a word.. but his smile and energy speak a universal language. To top it off, visit the airport restrooms and find orange toilet paper. Nuff said! It was enough to make me root for Netherlands this season.

Countryside
The countryside begins as soon as the city ends, what a breath of fresh air, literally. The tranquility of vast grasslands weighed down by fog, with an accompanying light drizzle. Grey shades of barns and windmills that are better appreciated from the distance. When you get close enough, you realize these have been preserved and manicured for all the tourist who get lost milling around in the souvenir shops.

Full Netherlands album here.

Glasses – the powerful image changer

Brilliant. Seen from Flowing Data.