13 Things to be Grateful For

I've been asking people i met last month "how was 2013?" & received much chatter in animated fashion. While i'm an entire month late in penning my closing thoughts for 2013, but hey, for the Chinese, 2014 only starts today!

1. I Made it Count

Counting down to 2013 was a solemn one. I remember finding myself alone in my car, counting down as i hear the jubilant cheers from the row of houses beside. I whispered to myself, "2013 will be good." 

Countdown to 2014 didn't quite happen because shockingly we found out the Swiss weren't so organised for the one major thing that mattered on 31 Dec 2013. There we were, champagne in hand, not getting to pop it dramatically as we planned to. Still, it was memorable. We had friends over, cooked dinner and then out gyrating in a pop up club & drinking B.Y.O champagne. NYE didn't cost a thing!

2. I got my Game

2012 was the ephiphany of the root of my insecurities. I became self aware that i never spoke my mind in relationships because i was afraid of him walking out. 

2013 was applying the new rules of the game. I consciously willed myself to not follow-up despite making a first move (a girl can still take an initiative). An initiative is still necessary because you need to communicate your interests & availability.

Understanding the laws of nature and mastering the game, alpha males need a girl who does not take their bullshit while still maintaining her femininity.

3. I learned to rest
I dialled down my independence & asked for manly help when i need. Like moving things, or asking for protection or taking a hand when the downhill was steep. This revealed my vulnerability, something i have kept close to heart. 

4. I tasted an Expat's life

My eyes were opened to career's opportunities available to me. Unlike many Singaporeans who are unwilling to leave their comfort zone, i can't wait to leave. To push myself forward, to grow and to be creative. 

5. I got New Bras 

Best friends are like bras. They are supportive, they are comfortable, they lift you up and they make you look better. I made new friends all over the world, they who accepted me as who i am. They made me teared with everyone's little personal note behind my 'graduation' photo. They who only knew me for short, know me as much as a long-time friend would. As much as they learned from me (my strange useless random facts), i learned from the Spanish how to love, the French how to be empowered and the Greek how to dance. I learned generosity from everyone and when you make mature friends, there is no selfishness and competition. 

6. I can Fly Without Wings

I have never felt more carefree. Being in Switzerland, away from friends, family, my creature comforts, i felt free. Without a care in the world, without any heartache of missing someone, i focused on myself and i felt whole. The Swiss lifestyle made me punctual, made me eat better and gave me a new perspective of being human. I liked that marriage and children do not hold one back from personal goals, i liked that the Swiss couples carry 6 month old babies up mountains, i liked that the fathers are actively involved with their children.

7. I Opened my Chakra

Because i had to fend for myself as a kid, it built a tough exterior that made me quite a cold unfeeling person. I have never let my tears flow but Europe made me emotional. Since relocating, i teared first in the church when the songs got too familiar to home. Then i next teared in my boss' office, grateful for the opportunity. Choked up with tears (and salad) during lunch when i read everyone's personal note on my farewell card. I also burst into tears in bed 2 weeks before departure, finally screaming, kicking and crying as i was dragged into the van that sent me to the airport. Ok, i exaggerated the last.

8. I Bought a House 

Unfortunately not a zoo, but just a house. 

9. I Learnt to Ski
In March last year, i first learned to ski in Dubai mall.


What are the odds that 7 months later, i was skiing in mecca!

Interestingly, I posted on my Instagram early in the year an image grabbed off the Internet saying i would like to go there. I had no plans to do it but in Dec, i was ACTUALLY staying in the exact same hotel i posted in Feb. Could this really be The Secret?

10. I Found Love

Love came in all forms, not necessarily just the heterosexual type. I was particularly touched by my 2 flat mates. Sylvia opened a Chinese restaurant and served me a banquet pretty much all the time. Unconditionally giving and putting me first. My birthday in 2013 was gonna be pretty bland being far away from home but Sindy took me to Paris despite having been there twice herself. 

11. I was Protected

Europe wasn't as safe as Singapore and i was very blessed that i was protected from burglaries and 3 attempted pick pocket incidents. 

12. I (almost) Ran with the Bulls

I had many cool experiences the past year, that made me cherish experiences over materials so much more.
I remember there was one year i got upset with an ex who didn't get me a present but a haircut! Thinking back, i smile and understood the 'gift' he was presenting me was an experience. The San Fermin in Pamplona is an experience to have once in a lifetime.

The Bond weekend i had with my dad was also pretty cool. Grateful for my father who is still adventurous at his age!

13. I Fought like a Gladiator 

Travelled 15 countries last year, it was an experience unforgettable.