1st Break For Myself

2008, October 23 marks the first break that I have, and that I really think I have taken, just for myself! Or, a break that I think I truly deserve, without any sense of guilt.

What's the best part of my job so far? This is tough, cos there are so many things I like. But really, October 23 is a day that I truly believe, is the best part of my work!

I used to lament about the lack of annual leaves, and, the lack of resources. Today, I specially took the day off ( and really had to, else I can't clear my annual leave before the year end) and got away from my house (so that I wouldn't end up spending my day off on housekeeping again :p).

First stop, Toa Payoh Polyclinic! Talking about this, it's really hilarious and I really had to side track a little. :P The taxi uncle actually thought that I was heading there to buy a MC! It's so ridiculous (especially when there are so many clinics near my residing area).

Anyhow, he continued with his small talk, laughing over how he used to buy it at $2. But folks, if you are reading this today, please understand, this has already been the PAST!

Whatever it was, I was heading there to get the referral letter for braces. After all the research, it's really heartache looking at the high cost of putting on the braces. Hence, I'm really adamant to do it the less costly way! I have always been longing to straighten my teeth and curious about how I would look. :P

The trip was really enjoyable and I was so happy when the dentist actually commended that my teeth is clean! Ha, if you notice, I deliberately write "is clean"! I'm so proud of myself.

The last time I visited a dentist, more than 2 years back, the trip set me back by more than SGD500 within 3 weeks. Where I had to return for trips to "clear up the mess" :P I shan't elaborate. But the diligence to clean my teeth more often, definitely pays off!

As the saying goes, 不听老人言，吃亏在眼前. I really regretted not obeying my mum, to wash up more often, not to wash my hair late at night, to stand straight when throwing my tooth (e..hem.. this is really a myth, but something that my younger sis really boasts for practicising and one that I can't rebut cos.. our teeth sets us apart! :p), and many more!

After that, I spent more than 2 hours at Popular Bookstore, without a single moment of worrying that anyone (esp. my husband) is waiting for me! That was, really so, so enjoyable! I rewarded myself with a novel and a marketing book! However, I couldn't stop myself from thinking of others during my off day. I also bought a few books for my husband, my nephew (glee! imagine the looks on their face if they see the books! ;).

With two bags of books, my sling bag and really smug look, I headed for Coffee Bean!

You really can't imagine how happy and excited I am, to be able to spend a few hours solely for myself, enjoy my book and not think about work, family or friends, for once.

I am really so blessed! I even found a nice corner at Coffee Bean, with a leather cushion sofa that wouldn't hurt my bum if I were to sit for hours.

The experience had been truly gratifying! It has always hard for me, to enjoy being alone without feeling lonely. I never enjoy shopping alone, watching movie alone, or doing anything alone with anyone to listen to my talk. :P

That day, I poured through the book, Nights in Rodanthe, The #1 New York Times Bestseller by Nicholas Sparks, oblivious of the economics, the work and the ongoing stress. Putting on my earpiece, playing instrumental songs through my mobile (my latest gadget, Samsung SGH-i780 :P) it helped to drown the sounds from the coffee machine and the passerbys.

But really, I still dream for a long holiday, where I could sit in a garden, or a lush green field, under a clear blue sky, reading a good book. No matter what, it has already been an achievement.

I renewed my interest in reading, or rather, am being reminded of it again (since I never found time or dare to give time for a nice novel) and look forward to a next holiday.

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"Is there any purpose of living, if you do not know what you need or what you want?"