Chase your dreams, Live your passion

After being away for so long, and quitting my teaching job so I can focus fully on painting and pursuing my masters in english literature, I made this as my new year resolution for 2011. And nothing is going to make me stop.

Something in my heart is firm and decisive, and I know this time I'm going all out and getting just what I desire. =)

I really miss this sacred space where I blog about my creative dreams and my passion for art. And the community that made it all the more special.

I've been commissioned an artwork by a sweet girl who has a gift and passion for baking. It was quite challenging as I was sick worried whether I could paint out the details and intricacies of the cakes and pastries. And I think I was slow with the artwork because of the fear. So I've to work slowly if to overcome the fear and I was so proud and happy of myself when I've finished it today. It took me many months to complete it from the first draft/sketch.

It is her Christmas gift for herself. I think this action of self-love is awesome. To get a painting to remind yourself what is important to you, and baking is her passion. This gives me an idea, maybe I could paint me painting and hang it somewhere with easy eye access so it serves as a reminder to chase this dream and pursue this passion! =)

That's the talented girl and her sweet cakes of labour below! They look absolutely yummylicious!

So glad to be back to painting full force! I think part of me decides that I have enough of fearing of no making it with being an artist, that the fear of regret overrides the other fears. And I'm saying NO to not doing anything to have my dreams and saying YES to every opportunities to paint!

Merry Christmas everyone! I'll be back to blogging more consistently! It's a promise I made to myself firmly!

Eat, Pray, Love

The book "Eat, Pray, Love" touched me profoundly when I read it a few years ago. And yesterday I watched the movie alone, and it was a very, very spiritual experience.

I have not been blogging so much about my creative life for almost 2 weeks now and I miss this space. This space is my meditation hall, I come here to perform my sacred ritual of writing meditation. Work has been the asnwer to my reason of missing in action. I have found a new job, a teaching job, teaching students the English Language. It's a part time thing, I meant it that way, so I could use the rest of the time to paint. But the initial stage of having new changes in one's life usually means that things can't work out as plan.

This qupte by Elizabeth Gilbert meant alot to me"

"There is so much about my fate that I cannot control, but other things do fall under the jurisdiction. I can decide how I spend my time, whom I interact with, whom I share my body and life and money and energy with. I can select what I can read and eat and study. I can choose how I'm going to regard unfortunate circumstances in my life-whether I will see them as curses or opportunities. I can choose my words and the tone of voice in which I speak to others. And most of all, I can choose my thoughts."

I was feeling a tad little down that I've sacrificed painting in the name of a more steady "work". I have allowed myself to wallow in sadness thinking I am giving up my creative pursuit (permanently) to earn a more steady income to pay my rent. Then I remembered the words of Buddha, the wisest teacher ever to grace this earth, He said we can choose our thoughts, and we, hold the final key to our own door or happiness. And He eaid that nothing is permanent, which Elizabeth Gilbert also mentioned in her book, "eventually, everything goes away".

So she also says it beautifully, "I can choose my thoughts." And that is my challenge and my sentiment. I am choosing to see that this transition to more independence is an opportunity to strengthen my spirit. I choose to see that this teaching job is not permanent, that the busy-ness is not permanent too. I choose to learn from this job, to take responsibility for my time. I look at my students, and see how this job is also a blessing. Compared to the serenity and aloneness of painting, my teaching helps balance me with reaching out to people. I am able to learn from my students, these young people from Sudan, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, and thank the Universe I am able to impart knowledge, to quench the thirst of curiosity and to ignite the passion for learning.

So I am keeping faith, I will and shall and can paint again, and accept that it is not now. But soon, very very soon.

Living courage

Reading Jen Lemen's writings and musings on her blog have always been my nourishment for the soul. And everytime she offers in her words wisdom that only comes with experience and living authentically, from the highest of truth.

Her post on 13th September grounds me to contemplate on my life lately. In her very words, "Courage is required...."

"when you know you need to be honest
when you have to make a choice between an old destructive way of thinking and a new healthier one
when you have to go to the dentist and you know she’ll know you haven’t flossed in forever
when you realize it’s time to let go of an old grievance that’s been helping you feel cozy and safe
when you know you need to drink, eat, obsess, etc. less
when you’re about to break the rules
when you need to try anything new
when you are about to assume more responsibility
when you’re trying on bathing suits or looking in full length mirrors of any kind
when you’re deciding to actually try to look pretty
when you’re owning up to having hurt someone you love
when you’re writing a new script for your future
when you’re deciding to trust someone who hurt you in the past
when you’re deciding to let the love all the way in
whenever you’re taking a chance
whenever you’re choosing to forgive
whenever you’re deciding to trust yourself
whenever you head out on a brand new path
whenever you need to say goodbye
or whenever life asks you to start all over again"

Everything resonates. I have been living from two places recently, swaying from fear to courage, courage to fear. I am making the conscious choice to be brave, and I am truly appreciating that I can be brave, that I am brave, and enjoying the rewards from making decisions based on honoring my own truth.

I am courageous, because

I have been telling my loved ones to drop the need to hold on to the past, to embrace the present, to let go of the drama, and instead live in the now.

I told someone very precious to me that he has the power to re-create his life, but first he must stop telling himself things that till so far has create only a painful reality for him. Telling himself that he is alienated from everyone else around him is very far from the truth. I reminded him that he is very loved.

I said goodbye to someone that was very dear to me, because holding on was not serving both of us. I have truly learned the meaning that when you love someone you're not afraid to let that person go. Because on a deep soulful level you know that unconditional love binds people together in a non-attached way. Nobody we love so truly will ever "leave" us.

I am owning up that I am deserving of love, and of true happiness and the best things that the Universe can offer, and is generous to offer.

I am opening myself to be honest to people, sharing my lessons and insights from my experiences with shadows.

I am throwing out my hands widely and telling the Universe that I am willing to offer its abundance because I am ready!

I am inviting new people to my life, people from all walks of life, people sharing the same passion and interests!

I am starting a new life, writing a new chapter!

I am re-learning to love my curvaceous body and buying myself more flattering dresses to be in touch with my body, sensuality and femininity!

(Me donning a new dress, after making the promise to myself to consciously get in touch with my inner goddess more =), wearing dresses make me feel pretty and happy, something that pants and trousers cannot successfully do!)

I am setting boundaries and saying no to situations and people that overwhelm me, not because I am selfish but because I know we can all come from a higher, more joyous place!

I am taking art to another whole new level, and I'm just not talking about techniques, I felt that I have a much clearer voice because I have come so far and has much more valuable gems to share, and I'm not shy to be heard!

Of course, the path is not always easy especially when one needs to cut the fear and move on with the bravery! Fear is a ferocious dragon who spurts fire maliciously, but inside us we have just the right sword to slay off its head. I believe the chances of winning is always 100%, it is not overconfidence, but faith, that we just believe we can do it!

How about you? What are the acts of courage that you've been performing lately? Have you been struggling to slay the dragons of fear? What is your dragons about? I'll love to hear you share them in the comment section or in your blog?

"Arts for Grabs" event

Last two days, Saturday and a Sunday, was when me and 2 friends, listened to our gut and proceeded to rent a booth at the "Arts for Grabs" event. We rented the place for just RM100 for two days, shared by three, that's around USD 32. It's super cheap if you ask me. It was the first time ever for 3 of us to participate in such an art bazaar, I jokingly called it our virgin exhibition.

It was really a great learning experience. Because of the limited wall space, me and Elaine, another artist, bombarded the wall with both our artworks.

(I think we look gorgeous together, I am so so vain for saying this but couldn't resist!)

Meet the artists! Elaine Wong (left) is coincidentally with the same name as my younger sister. She paints motifs and patterns and flowers and swirly curls. She uses colours rather boldly. I am so so so proud of her, she took a month leave from her day job to spend time solely to paint. You can check out her work at here. On the right is another Eva, such a coincidence, she does svarovski crystal earrings, pendants, suncatchers in the shape of angels. Gorgeous things.

Elaine's work (above)

I snapped this picture when our little humble corner suddenly is filled with potential customer. Sure looks busy! The flow of people was slow though, maybe because they didn't advertise and promote the event enough. Most of the people who came are supporters and friends of the vendors, artsy people, who do theatre, art, who are activist. The general public is not exposed to it yet! But it still is good exposure for emerging artists like us!

I sold one of my original artwork. "Spread your wings" Catherine is a friend who makes yummylicious cupcakes. She said she absolutely love the colours combination. I am so happy that she loves it because this is the first time I am attempting this style! My art is finally, being grabbed!

I am a fan of artworks on owl. I couldn't resist and bought three artworks from this sweet lady. All originals. She said she painted them when she was pregnant with her first child, and that was 12 years ago and she always felt reluctant to sell them. I am such a lucky owner of her artwork!

It was a splendid learning experience, I felt so so so blessed. In a way I felt we were guided to do this, and everything went smooth and well. We got assistance to carry tables, and made new contacts and friends. More people know I paint and they have ONLY nice and encouraging words to say. The other vendors are so gifted and friendly, they was not the least reluctant to share the techniques and the secret of their crafts! I hope we could run into one another in other art bazaars.

I have alot of gratitude fro Elaine for asking me to collaborate with her and initiating this 1st step (she is such a brave soul!), and Eva for just being who she is and charming people with her openness, positive energy and vibrance. Our booth was the first one (nearest to the entrance) and made quite an impression! Especially when we introduced ourselves, our names all start with Es!

I am just keeping this feeling of fullness and joy and carry it to my painting! Life is good, it's great actually! I believe if we dare to dream BIG anything is possible! And this is the lesson that I am learning and experiencing and letting it embed deeply in my soul!

Hi peeps,

I have not been posting consistently and more frequently due to many changes that I was going through, is still going through and hopefully, will be more benign and a smoother ride in the near future. I have moved out and now, officially, have a place of my own. It is a rocky transition but nevertheless one that empowers me. I learn to balance between taking things as it comes and making decisions that are fruitful and attempt to surrender my worries as best as I could

Amidst all these major transformation, I have found many things that are worth celebrating and to be grateful for. I believe so much that if we focus on the good, the good and better will keep coming our way.

One of the best thing is that I've made an international transaction, YAY! I sold my first painting overseas to someone living in Jakarta, Indonesia. Remember my first art display that happened not long ago? I followed my intuition to put up a booth selling my paintings not knowing what to expect and manage to make my biggest sale so far! The painting "shaman" is by far the biggest artwork and the most personal one in my collection. I learnt how to use the courier service and how to do western union transation. This is very beneficial as I am sure when I start to sell my artwork on etsy I'll be needing this experience.

The buyer, Sanjay, really loves the painting, he felt connected when he sees it. I saw the amazement in his eyes and felt amazed myself, I asked myself rhetorically whether something I painted is able to arouse such strong feelings! Look at his namecard, he is donned in an red indian outfit. He calls himself the "Chief of Happiness" and conducts seminars on positive thinking and beliefs. I love the copywriting of his business card, notice Blood type, it's B+ (Be positive, it's in my blood), it's funny and brilliant. And then I remember that's my blood type too!What a lovely coincidence, I never thought of my bloodtype that way! It's good to know!


Elaine, who is also an emerging artist and a new friend, has contacted me and asked me whether I'm open to joining an art festival that is happening this weekend. The "Art for Grabs" event has always been one art event where I've attended ever since I knew about its existence. Everytime I go I'll be thinking when it's my turn. I think it's my inner perfectionist that is in the way. I said yes to Elaine even though I didn't have that many artwork. And there's also the limitation that all art pieces on sale must be below RM 100.

There is something fascinating about collaborating in project like this with someone as new to it as me. It's our first time doing this. We are totally clueless about many things, especially how to display our booth. So fas we got the chairs, tables, cloth.

I tried to make as many small paintings for the event. Below is the "Faery of Courage", I have been contemplating alot on being brave, standing up for my beliefs now that I'm on my new path. Sometimes when there are so many uncertainties, courage and blind faith is something I learn that I must summed up to brave the strong waves (notice the flyer)!

Another piece that I did today, I applied the techniques in Kelly rae's "taking flight" and this is the result! It's call "Spread your wings". I am trying to figure out whether I like the painting, hmmmm, I think I am doubtful because the girl looks like she's tired (I think I am feeling that and unconsciously painted that state) Or is she looking zen?

This is my first "messy" painting. I am learning to get use to it! And be okay with chaos and disorder!

I am actually having a flu today, and is drinking alot of water to recover, had Indian remedies to cure it (a friend gave them to me) I hope by tomorrow I'll wake up to a healthy and flu-less me!

Sending lots of love and well-wishes for my readers/ kindred spirits to keep embarking your creative journey, and take rest when you're unwell. I need to listen to my own advice =)

I was tagged by sweet Soraya who blogs here. I learnt abit about myself as I was attempting to answer these questions!

1. Are you a dog person or a cat person? Both? Neither?

I like the elegance and mystery of the feline creatures. But I love love love dogs, even though I have never owned any, I think the saying about them being "man's (and woman's) best friend is absolutely correct! I love how they just express their love for anyone so unconditionally, the wagging of the tail, the happy bark, the wiggling of the tongue, the delightful jumping up on hindlegs to greet you! I am most certain I'm getting one as a pet in the near future when I have enough space for one, and enough extra finances to feed one!

2. If you could spend a week anywhere in the world, where would it be? What would you do?

This is so difficult! I had love to go anywhere where there are abundance of culture and nature, best if its combine. Would love to go for some sort of meditation retreat to places like Egypt, Bali, Cambodia, India, Hawaii. I have been to Egypt, Bali and India on a tour with my family, would love to go again on a spiritual pilgrimage. I am drawn to places of worship, no matter if it's a temple, synagogue or a church, spiritual places fascinate me.

3. What is your fave home cooked meal?

My mum's curry chicken. it is absolutely delicious when eaten with baguette.

4. Your perfect evening is...

Watching the sunset from the balcony, soft jazzy music playing in the background, snuggling up to a good book, sipping from a cup of green tea latte, candles burning, the room smelling of lavender oil. Better if the evening is shared cuddling with a loved one, completely immersed in enjoying the company of each other in quiet bliss, letting the evening slowly melting into night time.

5. If you could be anyone in history for one day, who would you pick and why?

Hmmmmm. Another difficult one. There are so many people I admire and wish I could emulate their lives, passion, genius, wisdom and philosophy! Most of them women. I am in awe with the talented Canadian writer Margaret Atwood (still living) and Virginia Woolf (I would love to experience being her and heal her from suicidal inclination), have high respect for the compassionate Mother Theresa who changed the world with her love for humanity and her tireless effort to help the sick and the poor. I am not sure whether goddess figures like Athena, Aphrodite, Isolt, Isis, Hathor, Saraswati are real or legend, but I'd like to be them and stand in their power to know how it is like to be 100% woman and so empowered in their femininity. I would love to experience being a sorceress and perform magic rituals too! Magic has always fascinate me!

But for now, I'd like to be Susan Seddon Boulet, who paints breathtaking artwork of mythical legends and characters. Her painting is magic, usually when I look at them I felt as if the characters are moving and they're coming out from the canvas to touch my being. You should check her out, her artwork inspire me greatly! I had love to experience what is it like to be this immensely talented woman, how does her mind work? What are her world views? What are her passion?

6. A quality you admire most in others...?

Courage, compassion, wisdom, humour, gratitude

Least...?

Judgemental, bitter, angry, negativity

7. The scariest thing about ageing...

Is to regret causing hurt to someone I deeply love and never having the chance to say sorry and not having told someone you love them enough

8. At the end of your life, what is the one thing you will regret never having tried?

Singing on a stage and getting a standing ovation! I have always dreamt of singing to a public crowd and touching people's hearts with my voice and conquering the fear of singing in front of people that I know and don't know. I felt it is a more difficult dream to pursue than my artist dream because even though I know I've a nice voice but it's not steady. Perhaps I can take vocal lessons to perfect my voice!

Thank you Soraya for your reminder that (in her words) "*Psst...maybe you can take a few tiny steps toward that dream today so there will be no regrets later:) " It has been fun, fun, fun to share bits and pieces of me!

Trip to Malacca-historical city of Malaysia

I must thank all of you for your encouraging comments that filled my heart with love. And I do remember that though there are obstacles and challenges, there are also the other side to it if I pay attention. Like friends who care and try their best to comfort and support me. I've come to understand how during times of crisis the precious-ness of friends whom I can trust and rely upon even more deeply during this phase of my life. And you who have been following my blog, I write for myself and I write for you, in writing and sharing my thoughts, vulnerabilities, snippets of my life, I am so glad that I have this space that I could share safely, and knowing that at the end of the day you all care.

All is well in my world.

Went to this charming historical town in the coutry call Malacca yesterday. Found this inside a restaurant, old typewriter. semi-torn non-functional lantern. A kind of forgotten beauty. Romantic and a little sad that time has left them behind.


Colourful transport, decorated wildly with an abundance of flowers. It's call a trishaw.Portugese settlement, facing the ocean. The popular straits of Malacca where traders used often during the British colonization times. Watching the sunset, releasing worries to the sea, friends, delicious Portugese food. Everything feels like it is going to be okay.
Love pictures of feet, it says (shared) adventure, journey, experience. Mine is the one in green pants. Bought the shoe there, love how ethnic it looks.

River cruise. History is painted on the buildings.
One of my best friend from university, Ayushna and her "borrowed joy" from the kid next table where we dine. The dog is heart-melting adorable-ness. Its fur felt like that of a cuddly teddy bear you would hang on to to give you a good night's sleep.


Ayushna and Li Yien tried the fish spa near the quay. Despite the "silent please" sign, both were giggling non-stop from the itchiness when the fish crowded in to "feed" on their feet. There's a theory that the more fish that comes for your feet, the more dead skin you have. I've tried it and it's super itchy though fun so I passed this time round.

I had a really great time catching up with friends and having fun. It's funny how like art, adults need to learn how to play. I am re-learning, hopefully I'll become rather masterful in the near future. I hope all of you took the time to recuperate, rest, explore, play.

Sending you lots of love..

A lesson in Releasing and Surrendering

"When I loved myself enough,

I began leaving whatever wasn't healthy. This meant people, jobs, my own beliefs and habits- any thing that kept me small. My judgements called it disloyal. Now I see it as self-loving."

Kim McMillen

I have been going through alot of changes and I am feeling a deep shift in me. I have not been blogging for a week now because I am feeling that I need all the rest I could get. I have been feeling. Vulnerability. Helplessness. Trying to find my ground and center.

I realized for too long I have been taking responsibilities for other people's burdens and trying to solve their problems. And things are showing up clearly to make me see that I need to know which are my responsibilities and which are other people's.

I am setting boundaries to that which is no longer healthy to me. Whether it is people whom I love dearly but who has been demanding too much of my energy and time. I am taking time out to take care of me. The part of me which is judgmental calls it selfish . But another part of me which is entirely made of pure love just think it is the most important thing to do now.

I am staying at a best friend's place. Just praying, meditating, journaling, meeting up with friends whose presence is comforting, who knows what I am going through and who just accepts that I am at this place now.

I am releasing and surrendering to God all that which I have not been able to let go. Learning the lesson that I cannot control everything, and trust that God will take care of everything else while I take care of myself.

Today I took a swim and with each inhale and exhale above and under water I said a positive affirmation. I asked for spiritual guidance, I bless my situations and all the people I know needed blessings and guidance.

While I cannot reveal too much about the obstacles because I am still feeling too vulnerable about sharing it in this space and I wish to protect the people who are involved, I asked (really, really with much gratitude) that you say a little prayer for me and my family.

1st Art Display and Serendipitous meeting

The meditation and healing centre "The Golden Space" which I go often to go deeper into my spiritual self had its first anniversary last saturday. While most people had their booths to offer healing and therapy, I had a perpetual calling and whispers in my ears to exhibit my art. I heed it and display my art and it is the first art booth I've ever organized. My "virgin display" I called it.

I was in doubt, I was worried, I was anxious, I keep thinking "How would it turned out?", "Will people like my paintings?", "Will I feel out of place?", and worse "Will anyone buy anything at all?" These are the questions that haunt me. I decided that my mind is operating from fear and took the stance to let go of these doubts, and just surrender to whatever that will take place.

Turns out that I need not worry at all. Really, everything was smooth-sailing. Even though the sale was slow, yet I realized it is not about being there to make the money. I was there to celebrate the fact that I've come out as an artist, it was a safe space to introduce myself to people who are not necessary art collectors, but people who are interested in their own spiritual journey, who would understand why I paint. To make it even simpler, I was there to be who I am that I've not been acknowledging for the longest time-that I paint, that I am creative.

It was exhilirating, it was also scary, but it was a worthwhile experience. People think my namecard is pretty and they take it and keep it. There is someone who express interest after the art exhibition through email and I am quite over the moon happy. There is a woman who wants me to teach her child how to paint which is cute but which I gently rejected.

I'm happy, because even though I was unsure of the outcome, even though I was scared of rejection, I went ahead and was surprise at my courage and my willingness to take a step further, through decisions like these. More people know that I paint now. It is more official and I am loving the experience of being an "emerging" artist.


I invited Alison who blogs to the event. How Alison and I meet is a very magical story. I have been reading Jen Lemen's blog for as long as I read Kelly Rae's blog. Both of them are close friends in real life, and while Kelly Rae had her Flying Lessons the e-course which I signed up and enjoyed like crazy, Alison took Mondo Beyondo which was co-written by Jen Lemen. I didn't know what happened. I was blog hopping and found Alison and love her writing and her pictures and her life views. Two friends from America bought two strangers in Malaysia together. Ain't that strangely divine? And I also found out that we had a common friend who I used to paint for. This magical coincidences are mind-blowing!

Alison said we made a big round across the globe to make friends back in our homeland. The Universe does have a bizarre sense of humour.

Something in my heart tells me I have to invite Alison to the event. She was exactly as I imagined her to be, only better. In that petite frame of hers was so much gentleness and playfulness, she was sweet and joyous. And upon meeting me and showering me with her warm glow of smiles, she quickly went about taking pictures of my art. We had alot of fun getting to know one another and will meet soon for tea! Can't wait!

I stole these two photos from her blog. Do visit her to say hello.

Me looking serious in glue-ing jeweled studs on an art print.

The Golden Space, Kota Damansara.

Life is magical. I really can't stop acknowledging that. And thank you all of you readers who took the time and trouble to leave your comments on my blog to support and encourage me in my creative journey. I think all these has transformed into power that stays within me to make this art display an empowering and special one!

Owl on the prowl

The painting above was drawn with the intention to print on my business card. A girl with paintbrushes on her hands and the colours flowing out from it. The colours and the birds were inspired by the piece I painted for my sister as her birthday present. I fell in love with the style and tries to imitate it. I think this is a lesson for all artists, that plagiarism or imitation can never replace the authenticity of the original piece. Even if it is the artist herself imitating her own work (yikes!) I tried to follow the motifs of the plants and flowers and the positions of the birds, but it ended up losing the original innocence and spontaneity.


Even though I love the idea of the bird nest on her head, representing the birth of creativity perhaps, I decided not to use this artwork for my artist card because it didn't feel quite genuine. I think the background was rather cluttered (and I realized it probably has alot to do with my cluttered work+ living space and also, metal clutter). It was a tough decision to make in whether to let go or hold on. In the end, I chose authenticity.



I think I am my own harshest critic when it comes to my art. I'm learning to be kinder to myself. I am making it a conscious habit to say thank you and mean it when people tell me I paint well, and hush the inner critic that keeps pushing, "you think so? You can do better". A talent is God's gift to us and I think it is just too unkind to undermine our gifts and talents.


Notice that the girl in the first painting has very owl-like eyes. I have been seeing images of owls everywhere I go and I've read up about the meaning of owl that serve as my animal totem in this moment. According to http://www.animaltotem.com/find-your-totem.html, an Animal Totem is an important symbolic object used by a person to get in touch with specific qualities found within an animal which the person needs, connects with, or feels a deep affinity toward.

I was not painting her eyes with the intention to reflect that of the owl's, but somehow it came out this way. Was quite fascinated by the way her eyes seemed to hypnotize me when I look at her.


These beautiful earrings shout out to me and I've to get them. For me, the owl represents the feminine, the moon, the night.The owl is the bird of magic and darkness, of prophecy and wisdom. It is immensely important to acknowledge this creative aspect as it ties so intimately with my femininity because creating is essentially a feminine quality. I learn to listen to my inner wisdom and trust my own instincts in following this creative journey, am learning to listen quietly to my inner voice and making decisions that are aligned with my heart.

Apart from this, I would love to share with you a wonderful artists whom I am continually amazed at because her creative energy is endless and going strong! She is so dedicated in her art and I just have to ask her how she sustain that passion and devotion! She is Regina, this is my question for her, "Hi Regina, you're so filled with creative energy and you create so often, how do you do that? Please share your secret with us in your blog? I love the passion filled desire in her eyes, and I love that you pose a question on the portrait and let your readers think 4 bit!"

Please read her insights as she share her wisdom in her blog!

I promise you'll heart her and her art!

"Card" to the chase- I am an artist

I am so happy, and before I stumble down from cloud 9 from being too high, I like to share with you the highlight of this week. Remember the painting below, it was painted (with heavy loads of love and delight) for my sister as a birthday gift in June. I love the painting so much that I decided to use it for my artist business card. I got it printed last week.

(The original artwork)


(Isn't this absolutely gorgeous, cute and delightful?)

Jin, my best friend cum healer/art therapist/breatheworker cum designer (you can tell he is insanely brilliant), helped me with the design of this card. (I used the artwork for one side of the card and my details, with matching colours on the other side) So far the feedback I got from my friends are that this is by far the prettiest name card they've ever seen, and they want to just keep it secured and safe in their purse/wallet. One girl says this is like a miniature art print. I am so so so flattered.

But I must not forget to thank Jin, he helped me so much in the concept of the card and the arrangement of the words, types of fonts and the colours combination too!

I feel like I am really taking flight now, the artist card confirms something for me, and is a reflection that I am moving forward, with alot of courage and blind innocence (which is absolutely good) It is a representation of my hope, my determination, my fearlessness, that I am serious about making my dreams as a artistic and creative woman come true!I feel like I am re-affirming my identity and feeling empowered as I look at the beauty of these cards and giving them out to people, and telling everyone "I am an artist, I make inspirational and healing art".

So empowering. Thank you everyone of you out there who have been so supportive in my artistic journey. Every of your word counts as they help push me forward.


(Veggie Delite sandwich from Subway)

Another thing I'm very proud to announce is that I've been having two consequtive vegetarian dinners since the full moon. This is part of an effort I've made to save mother earth. (More meat, more carbon dioxide output). I still do find it hard to resist the temptation of glorious meat but I'm doing my best. So far I told myself at least one vegetarian meal per day. Breakfast is easy. Because it's usually bread, milo or oats. But it's something more challenging when eating with family because we're too used to having at least fish or chicken to complement rice.

I decided to start my vegetarian diet per meal a day on full moon because it's the best time to release the old and start something new. I almost bought a chicken/turket sandwich because my mind was playing tricks on me, it says "are you sure Eva? You'll be likely to get hungry reallllll fast." So I told it to shut up and said I'm going to stick with the plan to go green and order the veggie sandwich.

Subway and The fruit store (right beside one another)

I was afraid the sandwich could not last, so I bought mangos from this fruit store beside subway (how apt for vegetarians!) I was surprise that I did not feel hungry after the sumptuous vegetarian meal! So on the second day after full moon, I went for a vegetarian diet again, this time I bought my stainless-steel container to take-away these,

Vegetables, mushrooms, beancurd skin. It was yummylicious, and I feel light after the meal and happy to make another meal vegetarian!I hope you Go Green with me and consider having more vegetarian meals with me! I am making the vow to be as Green as much as I can!

You are... an Angel

Everytime after I finished any painting, I am so happy I'll twirl around the room, do a little dance, get really silly and say things like "You pretty little thing" as I shower flying kisses to the artwork. It is a really vain thing to do but I can't help but be really proud of myself. The sense of accomplishment that swells so full within and my heart enveloped with joy to see another beautiful artwork that I've made. Did I really made this? Was I capable of being artistic? And then the answer is right in front of me, there's no denying it, a new baby was born from my hands. And I know they are precious and beautiful because I have made them with alot of love, dedication and devotion.

I wanted to print a little note to say on the painting "I knew about your secret identity, you were an angel sent to love me" but decided against it because it's too long. And the painting is too colourful for anything else. Sigh

I thought the quote was pretty sweet. Was sad that I've to let that go.

My message for this weekend for my lovely readers is this, "I do know who you were from the start, you are an angel, you hide your wings but your loveliness and kindness shows".

Sending lots of love and hugs to all of you. Get rested and recharge for the week ahead!

Protecting Mother Earth

Every third week of Sunday is a different kind of family day in my household, because it is a day where My dad, mom, sis and I will wake up as early as 8am when everyone else is still sleeping and dreaming to venture into a day of Recycling near our neighbourhood. We will spend a few hours volunteering, and it is up to us which "department" we want to be in.

I realized that recycling work is quite "gendered", the girls and women will usually prefer sorting out papers, I think because it's the least dirty and it's not heavy. The men will usually sort our plastic, tins, newspapers. I've tried plastic before, I think people still need to be educated to wash their bottles properly before they recycle. Usually after a few hours helping out, my body will itch like mad and I'm super worried it's not some handiwork of unseen bugs biting me for its lunch.

Biscuit Tins and cans are organized into one segment. Plastic bottles into another.

My sister enjoying her music while she sorts out papers. Black print on white paper is segregated into one box. Papers with colour printing sorted into another box. The lesser the paper is written on, the more valuable it is.

My dad, he volunteers for the newspaper section. Me thinks he loves the dirtiness of it. Maybe it's a macho thing. He smiles to the camera as I snapped away. I love seeing him rush to help carry down old newspapers whenever a vehicle would dropped by with a bulk or two. I love his enthusiasm. I love this meaningful thing that our family does together.

I found treasures in the pile of papers meant to be recycled.

Amidst the many disposed advertisements/brochures/official letters/office documents, my eyes caught sight of these. These art pieces stands out amidst the black and white paper.

The one thing I've realized from the experience of recycling that we as human beings, create a lot of burden/trash for Mother Earth to swallow. As we consume and satiate our needs and (mostly) wants, we make tons of rubbish. With the persistent warnings about the natural catastrophe that Earth is facing and will be facing in the future, I make little changes in my life to ensure my carbon footprint is minimal. If one person does a little thing, imagine a hundred milliom people contributing to make positive changes to fight global warming. I hope that each of us can play a part. What you can do,

1. Recycle

You can recycle plastic bottles, aluminum cans (coke etc), papers, old computers and televisions. Do segregate them and send them to your nearest recycling centre. This act of yours help save the energy consumed in making new ones.

2. Buy minimally packaged goods

Less packaging, less waste

3. Turn off your PC

I used to put it in screensaver mode, but it's better to put it in sleep mode if you're going away for a short while b4 returning to it. Shutting it off is the best option when not in used.

4. Buy/Eat Organic Foods

5. Go vegetarian

It is practicing goodwill for Planet Earth and compassion for animals. I find this tough myself as it's hard to switch to non-meat diet suddenly. So I'm taking the option to eat vegetarian at least once a week.

6. Bring cloth bags, Say No to plastic

This everyone might be familiar. I love cloth bags with artsy design, plus it's fashionable and environmentally-friendly. This is hitting two birds with one stone.

7. Take away (In stainless-steel container)

People still use alot of white polysterene in Malaysia, I'm not sure how it is like in the US. I've tried to talk to restaurant owners about reducing the use of it and tell them it is non-biodegradable. But seems like they're only in it to make money and saving the planet is not on their priority list. It's sad. I think the awareness is still very low here. At times I really fear for their kids or grandkids, who are going to live in this planet far longer than them after they're gone. Have they given a thought about their welfare?

8. Use public transport or Carpool

The public transport system is not very well planned out here. So people mostly drive. The cars are too fast on the big roads. So bicycle is out of the question. I think our nation (Malaysia) depends too heavily on cars. We've become quite lazy due to that. I love walking and love looking at the scenery around my house, it has something different to offer each time. I think I could walk more, I think people could walk more. If they only realize the pleasure and benefits obtained out from walking.

I'm going to help raise awareness on Protecting and Saving Mother Earth on 7th August, for the first anniversary celebration of The Golden Space, a meditation and healing centre that I've been going to for some time. I am also going to have my first official booth to display my artwork and hopefully *finger crossed, sell them. Many plans that I have not execute yet. I can be such a procrastinator. Many ideals, but little practical actions.

So much to do, so little time. Yikes yikes yikes.

Last but not least, I hope you can do a little part, it helps sustain this beautiful planet we all live in. Much love to you and your family!