End of Semester Struggles

I just finished my first Masters critique ever, and I couldn't be more relieved to be done with the project. The last couple of weeks has been pretty tough on me. Now I really know that juggling work and trying to excel in Masters is not an easy feat. Not to mention at least trying to keep a decent social life in that equation.

So as I said, it has been a rough couple of weeks. It got to the point that I almost cried at my office desk when I wasn't even on break. It got to the point that I was weeping over songs because it reminded me of home. It got to the point that video calling with friends became a bawling session. I just broke down. 

There are so many things expected of me, including my own self expectations. 

Without me realizing it, I've been working for about 6 months now, and that poses some higher expectations from my bosses and colleagues. They expect me to be an architect, or at least act like one, when honestly sometimes I'm not even confident with my own colour choices. I still have a lot to learn but it seems that I have to start picking up the pace at this point if I want to continue impressing them. 

With studies, I've never really had a big problem with it. But starting about a year and a half ago, I really started excelling. And so this becomes addictive.

So come this semester, I felt so burnt out, and my grades show for it. It's not that I'm failing subjects or anything, but given my track record from Bachelors, I know I should be doing better.

What's keeping me going though, is the fact that all this will be worth it some day. Working in Australia isn't an opportunity I'm about to give up easily just because I'm tired. And quitting studies is definitely not an option particularly because I know once I've stopped, it'd probably take me a while to warm up to the idea of hitting the studios and have late nights again. 

But you know what, all in all, I know I'm very blessed. Not many people get the opportunities that I have. I know there are a lot of other people out there that would kill to get a scholarship to study abroad, and a lot of are searching for jobs, when I've already secured one while I'm studying. I shouldn't and won't waste what's been given to me. I just have to pick up my game. 

Though for now, I'm just going to give myself the day to take a breather and enjoy some me time because heck, I deserve it.

Here's to the (almost) end of semester.

And here's to a well deserved break in July soon! I can't wait. 

Ticking that 'Achievement Unlocked' box

Happy Mothers Day to all the mothers out there! <3

At the beginning of the year, one of my new year's resolution is to join a my first 10 km run.

So, yesterday was the first step in preparing for that run - I joined an 8 km run. And you know what, it was actually my first run in two years! I haven't been in the running scene since the Twilight Run in early 2015, and that run was only 5 km.

So when I finally crossed that finishing line yesterday, I felt so happy.

Because why?

Because it dawned upon me that I really am making this year, my year. The year that I push my limits. And it feels amazing.

I went to the run with some confidence yesterday. I knew that I wasn't going to be as fast as a lot of the other runners, but I told myself " It's okay " because I'm not competing with them. My main goal was to prove to myself that I could pull through when I put my mind to something. And I did. Amazing what we can achieve when we believe in ourselves. My time was 53:18 and though I know that's nothing to shout about, I was perfectly happy that it was under an hour (ha ha ha ha ha, yeah, no I didn't aim that high).  

There's something about these small achievements in life that I love, even though it's really nothing to shout about. It just makes me feel a little empowered inside everyday and it gives me that bit of self-satisfaction that I need, which I think is good every now and again especially when life is getting a bit too routine.

So 8 km done. 10 km in August, leggo!

Speaking of achievements, I finally managed a headstand. It's been a good week heyyy.

The Weekend Edition: Whitsundays Coast

Hello!

I'm back from my weekend trip to the Whitsundays Coast and here to tell you how I did my short trip. I traveled solo and it was super short and sweet and probably not the most ideal holiday for most, but I'll give you my most honest opinions, link you to the websites and provide little tips here and there for anyone who might want to go there one day :) 

Also if you're too lazy to read the long post, you can skip to end where I summarize the links for flights, accommodations and activities. YOU'RE WELCOME.

So my trip was just a short one, just two days and two nights. My flight was early on Friday morning. I went via Tigerair. The flight tickets were super affordable and I think the flight tickets are still cheap depending on when your anticipated travel dates are - If you check out Tigerair, the tickets go as low as $33 per way right now!

***

Friday

Arrival

When I reached Whitsundays Coast Airport in Proserpine, my first thought was that it was super small. I already anticipated it, sort of, but I guess little things like this surprise me all the time. There were two gates, and one baggage claim area, and probably around 3-4 check in counters.

The good thing about small airports is that you can't miss anything. Especially good for people travelling solo like myself, because I won't get lost no matter where I end up walking. 

Transport

I didn't have any luggage so I headed straight to the Whitsundays Transit sign. I booked with them in advance before the trip to transport me to Airlie Beach where I was staying throughout my trip. I think you can also buy tickets when you reach there because I saw some people doing that as well. The people were really helpful and they were super efficient. It's a bus, as opposed to a coaster so there's plenty of room. Also it was really clean! The fare wasn't bad either - a $34 return and I think every company charges a similar rate. They drop you off directly in front of your accommodation so that was definitely a big plus point for me! Definitely would recommend them if you're searching for transport to Airlie Beach. 

I would say that the trip from the airport to Airlie Beach was hardly impressive. There weren't many views or anything along the way. Just many trees and small shops along the streets. So don't go there expecting you'll see the sea straight away because you won't for a little while.

The journey to my accommodation took about an hour.

Abell Marina Point

Accommodation

I stayed at Backpackers by The Bay which was on the Main Street. However, though mine was on the main street, it was further away from the shops, about a 10 minute walk. I didn't mind it too much but if you want something more convenient, I would recommend somewhere like Magnums (I heard they are really popular) or Base backpackers. But to be honest you don't really have to worry about which backpacker you choose or when you book because the Main Street is probably 50% backpacker hostels anyway so there's plenty to choose from! 

Despite the distance from the shops, BBTB was generally good. The reception is open from 7.30 am to 7.30 pm so there's a good chance you'll get help when you need it. They'll give you your bedsheets and you'll be asked for a $10 cash deposit for the keys which you'll get back when you return the keys. 

I asked for an all female dorm with 4 beds which cost $34 per night. There are mixed dorms which are cheaper options. I thought of staying in a mixed dorm at first to save money but I guess my haram halal ratio didn't allow for it so I decided to go for an all female form instead hahahahahaha. Also, it's obviously more convenient because then I wouldn't have to sleep with my hijab on, etc.

When I was lying on the bed, a man entered the room and I thought he was just someone's boyfriend so I let it go but already felt a bit uneasy. But suddenly he lied on his bed. Apparently they had given me a mixed dorm! I thought of letting it go at first but I felt more uncomfortable than I thought I would so I asked reception if they could give me a different dorm, and they happily gave me a change, thank god!

The toilets and showers are gender separated so again, pretty convenient for us girls.

I didn't use the kitchen or anything but I passed by and they looked pretty clean. There were also some pots and pans. There were big fridges to keep food as well, so I would say it's a pretty convenient place! Also everything was pretty clean which always wins brownie points from me.

So overall, BBTB wins my approval stamp and a thumbs up for "good place to stay".

Activities - Skydiving (yes, you read that right!)

Okay, so here's the big one - I was meant to go Skydiving. Read again: MEANT to go. Sadly, when I reached the assembly point in the town centre, they were telling everyone that it was too dangerous to go at the time because the winds were too strong! They asked me whether I could do it on another day or whether I was planning to head back up to the Whitsundays at any time, but no option fitted me, so I only asked for a refund.

I felt so deflated! I was anticipating it for the past week so when adrenaline was already pumping up, only for them to tell me I couldn't do it, you could just imagine how upset I felt. Sure I felt nervous about the big jump the whole week, but I was looking forward to it. New experience and all that. But I guess everything has a hikmah behind it.

Anyway, I booked my skydiving here. I think this is the cheapest option for this height so far. Other websites were Book Me and each Skydiving company. I think there're two in Airlie Beach, mine was through Airlie Beach Skydivers.

Airlie Beach



So since skydiving was a no go, I decided to spend my time on the beach doing things that I know best, take photos, sketching and sleep!

I also walked around the town shops. Really Airlie Beach is probably 3 blocks of shops and about 50% of it is probably backpackers hostels! Another 20% would probably be activity/tour/travel companies and the rest are food and service shops.

For halal food, I was told that there are two kebab shops, but I only saw one. There are also plenty of fish and chips shops and a Dominoes. Woolies was nearby as well, so you definitely won't starve for the duration of your trip.

After the whole day just walking around and minding my own business, I decided to head back when I got dinner and it got dark. As far as I could see, there wasn't much night life going on either but don't take my word for it because it wasn't something I was interested in anyway.

Saturday

Activities - Ocean Rafting
I booked the Ocean Rafting tour via http://oceanrafting.com.au/ and took the Southern Lights tour.

The tour consists of :
1. Guided bushwalk to Hill Inlet lookout
2. Two hours on the famous Whitehaven Beach
3. Snorkeling

For me the tour was worth the money. It takes up the whole day (from 8.45 am - 4.30 pm) and they bring you to each spot. The company also arranges for transport to and from the meet up point before and after the activities end, so it is super convenient!

The boat ride itself was really fun, bumpy and feels like a real life flume ride! Again, the guides were super informative and friendly, so it made the tour all the more fun.

Our Ocean Rafting Tour guide

From Hill Inlet Lookout

From Hill Inlet Lookout

From Hill Inlet Lookout

Hill Inlet

Whitehaven Beach

Unfortunately, I didn't take any photos of the snorkelling because I was to chicken to bring my phone and camera near the water!

Sunday Morning

Best Hot Chocolate I've tasted in awhile!

My flight was at 9.25 am on Sunday, and again I took Whitsundays Transit to the airport. So that was the end of my trip.

*****

So that is basically how I did the trip. There were unfortunate events here and there but overall it was a good trip and very restful. Ever since I started architecture school, my life has been filled with late nights and non-existent holidays, even my summer breaks since I normally find internships or work during those times. I got a good break for the weekend which is probably what I need most right now having to juggle masters and work at the same time.

My honest opinion on the Whitsundays, go if you love nature. Go there if you love small and quiet little beach towns. Go only if you have money to do the activities like going snorkeling or sailing or go on scenic flights. Without any activities, I wouldn't have enjoyed it much because the town itself was quite small. There wasn't much to see on Airlie Beach either, at least not at the time that I went. And go on a scenic flight if you have the money. I think that would have been really worth it! I think I would go again one day specifically just for that. Some day, I'll definitely come back.

And as promised: 

1. Flight: Tigerair - https://tigerair.com.au/

2. Transport to Airlie Beach : Whitsundays Transit - http://www.whitsundaytransit.com.au/

3. Accommodation: Backpackers by the Bay - https://www.backpackersbythebay.com/

    Booked via Hostel Bookers - http://www.hostelbookers.com/hostels/australia/airlie-beach/

4. Skydiving: Adrenaline - https://www.adrenaline.com.au/airlie-beach/skydiving/whitsundays-beach-skydive-14000ft/
5. Ocean Rafting - http://oceanrafting.com.au/

Also now that I've written about my Whitsundays trip, I feel like writing about my other unwritten trips before this as well lol. Hm should I?

Just Married ♥ and some things I wished I'd done

Yesterday was a nice cloudy day. Absolutely perfect for an outdoor photo shoot!

Yesterday was the first time I agreed to do a paid photo shoot, and the brief was post-wedding. Honestly when she sought me out for a photo shoot, I was super nervous. I'm used to helping people do photo shoots, but they were always free of charge, so obviously there was less pressure on what I had to deliver. With it being free and all, people can't demand as much.  

So yesterday was a turning point in my photography "career". After some confidence boosts from friends, I decided to just go for it. After all, someone has to be my first customer. 

And so yesterday happened. 

It was pretty interesting (and totally nerve wrecking!) to be photographing people who aren't from my circle of friends. Giving instructions on how to pose, proved to be more difficult when I'm not as comfortable with them. Especially since I'm quite a newbie, I don't think I have the right to boss them around ahahahhaha. But obviously I'd have to suck it up one day and have to be able to direct them because both the client and I want pretty photos.

A night before the shoot, I decided to do a bit of research on Pinterest on Couple Photography. I jotted down some ideas and was supposed to keep them handy during the shoot. With all the nerves, I actually forgot to bring the sketchbook so I only managed to do a few of them that I had at the top of my head.

Also wished that I took more candid photos. Specifically, more useable candid photos. If I'm photographing my friends, their candid photographs could be used for blackmail of some sort. I couldn't very well do that with my clients, can I?

Lastly, I wish I wasn't so hard on myself. I love photography, I love art and I love most things that I do. But I constantly seek people's validation which I wish isn't the case all the time. Sometimes even though I love my work and personally think it's good, I wished someone would validate it, which I think shouldn't be the case. We should always be confident in our work especially if we, ourselves love it and think it's good. 

Again, it's a journey for me and I aim to better myself in that aspect though it'll take a long time. Slowly, but surely.

All in all, it was a good experience and I love the results! 

And then there's me; 

   

What I've been up to (Part 2);

I have a job.

Like a legit job in a legit Architecture company.

And I'm getting paid (this is by far, the second best if not the best part - next to the experience of course, I'm meant to say this)

Having a job, especially here in Brisbane, is one of my proudest achievements, I would say. For locals, it may not be such a big thing, but for an international Muslim student like me, it's a milestone. Because it definitely doesn't come by easily.

Taking the job did require me to sacrifice my holidays, though. But it was worth it.

It's been great so far, the job. The environment is great, the people are amazing and my bosses are nothing short of super. I love working (even though sometimes I need some extra motivation money to remind me to get up early and catch the 7.30 am bus every morning).

The way they treat us here is way different than how they would in a Malaysian company. I know this because I've worked in Malaysia too, and it's just ... different.

They are ever willing to teach, to answer your sometimes stupid questions and they want to help. They also understand that there is a life outside work and no one is obligated to stay past the allotted time.

Everyday I feel truly blessed to have been given such an opportunity. Though there are times that I wished I could stay at home and sleep in a bit longer, the opposite end of the spectrum gives me so much more.

I also love the fact I get to dress up a bit to work! Adding these pictures in just because. Teehee.

Yes, I'm still alive (and kicking very hard!)

Well hello there again.

It's been more than a year since my last post, and though I've not been faithful to this blog, I still do write my thoughts from time to time. It's just that I feel my writings the past year were a bit too personal to share on here so I decided to keep them for myself. But I'm back here because I've missed sharing things with the general public, whoever you readers may be.

So first things first,

I'VE GRADUATED !

Already three fifths an architect as of December 2016, now continuing my studies in Masters of Architecture at University of Queensland and working as a student architect in an architecture firm here in Brisbane. 

Photo credits: Hanif Hamzah (MHII on Facebook)

Here's from one of my pre-graduation photoshoots with my buddy Hans. His work is amazing. 

Photo credits: Hans Kamaruzaman (Instagram: @teaforthursday)

It's funny how things work out in the end, you know. I started out in architecture school 3 years ago, not even wanting to do architecture, but because of my circumstances, sort of forced me into the situation. In first year, I used to "not get it"- the whole creative and design process, all the while thinking that I'm going to hate my 3 years of degree life. But Allah's plans are always on point. He knows what's best while we know not. I forced myself to love what I do, and you know what, I actually do enjoy the field. Once I found and used my strengths to my benefit, things started to fall into place. Of course it takes a whole lot of work and a whole lot of will power, but everyone gets there eventually. We shouldn't be too pressured into following other people. 

Every little progress is still progress. 

It's been an amazing ride, my life in Australia and there has not been a day that goes by that I don't feel truly blessed. So thank you to Him, and everyone that's help made it happen for me. 

More about my 2017 self development goals in posts to come (hopefully!)

The Weekend Edition: Mount Ngungun

In Winter 2016, my best friend came from Malaysia to visit me here in Brisbane. One of the many things we did whilst she was in Brisbane was hiking up Mount Ngungun (pronounced Gun Gun) which is around an hour from Brisbane. 

I thought that the track was pretty breezy since there was already a defined track to go to the peak, so the journey was pretty much all set!

There were four of us, and one of them being my photographer buddy so it made the trip all the more interesting because he and myself saw a lot of photo opportunities during the trip!

The next few photos were taken near a photogenic rocky spot which was located along the way to the top. I was pretty sure the hike up to the peak was only meant to be 1 hour, but with us stopping by here for photos, it probably set us back by about half an hour or so.

The Mt Ngungun squad

The Peak

I personally felt that the view from the peak was amazing and totally rewarding! For just an hour and a half hike up, the view that we got was just - Subhanallah. It was so beautiful.

We also brought some kerepek to eat at the peak! Tee hee. Excuse their derp faces. They were probably hungry after the long hike. We ended the day at Caloundra beach for sunset, and that was around another half hour away from our hiking spot.

Sunset at Caloundra, King's Beach

* All photos were taken by myself and my friend, Hans. I can't remember which is which.

The Weekend Edition: Melbourne (1/3)

Hello hello! I'm back from my short getaway to Melbourne. In a way, it was quite impromptu since we bought tickets just a week before the trip. Last minute or not, the trip was great as was the company.

Our flight was so early in the morning - 6.40am! Which meant we had to be at the airport an hour before that, which meant we had to wake up even earlier before that!

Warm welcomes were given by Melbourne's cool winds. It was such a nice change from Brisbane's scorching sun which has been shining a lot off late.

Went to my cousin's place, dropped off our bags and started walking the city. And man, I tell you it is possible to love a city even more than I ever did before.

I've been to Melbourne a couple of times before but I never really felt the place (I don't know if that makes sense, I don't think it does). I don't know what it was this time;  the climate change from Brisbane, the company, the fact that we were all first year archi students that were so easily amused with everything, I really can't place a finger on what it was, but I fell in love with Melbourne even more than I ever did the last two times I was there.

 

@ Melbourne Central

@ State Library of Victoria

 @ State Library of Victoria

 @ State Library of Victoria

 Federation Square

 Flinders Street Station

 City Circle (FREE) tram!

 Royal Exhibition Building

Students actually have exams in this building!

 If you want some sketches done, travel with architecture students. Teehee!

 

 I think these are Lamb's Ears! So soft and cute and furry!

 Aggie being random

 St Patrick's Cathedral

 Wednesday Night Market

 I don't know why that guy is posing like that hahaha

 Ended the night with some gelato. Yummy!